Top MLB Prospects Worthy of St. Louis Cardinals' 5th Selection in the 2025 Draft
Revised Article:
Hey there, sports fan! Let's talk about the upcoming MLB Draft – for the St. Louis Cardinals, no less.
Now, you might have heard that the Redbirds haven't been having their best few years, but remember, that just means more draft picks for 'em!
Last time around, they snagged JJ Wetherholt, a shortstop, with the 7th pick. Even with their own promising youngster, the Cardinals always go for the best player they can get their hands on.
With this year's draft, there's a good chance they'll have the same opportunity. Some mock drafts have three top-tier shortstop prospects still on the board when the Cardinals pick.
One of these is Eli Willits, a high-school shortstop out of Fort Cobb-Broxton HS in Oklahoma. He's been linked to the Cardinals in multiple mock drafts and is consistently placed as a top-five pick. Willits brings a strong bat-to-ball skill set and solid defensive tools, making him a high-upside talent.
Now, the Cardinals have their fair share of middle infielders in their system, but a gem like Willits might just be too good to pass up. Plus, his versatility means he could potentially move to center field if needed.
Another potential pick for the Cardinals is Kade Anderson, a lefty pitcher from LSU. The Cardinals definitely need some pitching, and Anderson is considered one of the top college arms in this year's class. Drafting a high-upside college pitcher could provide them with a quicker path to the majors compared to a high school arm.
Jamie Arnold, yet another college lefty from Florida State, also offers high upside. Arnold's fastball is a big swing-and-miss pitch, which could help address their staff's lack of bat-missing capabilities. If the Cardinals prioritize a high-ceiling pitcher who can zip through the system, Arnold would be an excellent candidate.
Aiva Arquette, a college position player from Oregon State, has shown significant improvements in his bat and glove, particularly in his power potential and plate discipline. He's a college bat, which could make him an interesting choice for the Cardinals.
Lastly, there's Billy Carlson, a high-school two-way talent from Corona, California. He's a toolsy player with potential across the board. If the Cardinals are looking for a high-ceiling athletic profile with versatility, Carlson could be the guy.
With Chaim Bloom at the helm of the draft instead of Mozeliak, the Cardinals are at a pivotal point. Bloom has been overhauling the minor league system and implementing new systems, technologies, and methods of player development. This is the year he gets to pick the best player available that fits his new system.
So, who do you think the Cardinals will pick? Share your thoughts below! Let's hope they strike it big and get back to their winning ways!
In the upcoming MLB Draft, the St. Louis Cardinals might consider drafting Eli Willits, a high-school shortstop with a strong bat-to-ball skill set and solid defensive tools, as he is consistently placed as a top-five pick and has been linked to the Cardinals in multiple mock drafts. Alternatively, they could opt for Kade Anderson, a lefty pitcher from LSU, who is considered one of the top college arms in this year's class and could provide the Cardinals with a quicker path to the majors.
