A lot has already been discussed regarding the St. Louis Cardinals and which players might be moved this season if the team decides to make trades.
We previously took an in-depth look at six players who could depart before the trade deadline, whether through a trade or a demotion to the minor leagues. We also examined four players the team should keep for the remainder of the season.
But with the Cardinals playing as well as they have, what about guys who they could target and try to bring to town? The Cardinals aren’t going to go out and make some massive splash. That wouldn’t align with the strategy of the season. St. Louis has been clear that the team’s view of the season hasn’t shifted. So, if the Cardinals are going to add any pieces this season, expect veteran castoffs that the club could add for cheap.
With that being said, here are three guys to watch if the Cardinals want to add more pieces.
Eric Lauer — Toronto Blue Jays
This would be a fast and logical move for the St. Louis Cardinals. Eric Lauer, an eight-year MLB veteran with a career 4.26 ERA across 156 appearances, was designated for assignment by the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday.
Although Lauer has struggled this season, posting a 6.69 ERA through his first eight appearances, he proved last year he can still be effective. In 2024, he recorded a 3.18 ERA in 28 outings for Toronto, including 15 starts.
Taking a chance on Lauer could be the kind of low-risk move that benefits St. Louis, especially if the team believes it can help him regain form out of the bullpen. The Cardinals could try to claim him off waivers, but making a minor trade would ensure they secure him.
Craig Kimbrel — New York Mets
This is a bit bold. Kimbrel’s ERA for the season looks very bad at 6.75 in 10 games. But he’s been better than expected. Of his 10 appearances, eight have been scoreless. But he allowed a grand slam on May 7, which skews his numbers. He also allowed three earned runs on April 23. Again, eight scoreless appearances.
Triston Casas — Boston Red Sox
This is the boldest of the group. Casas is on the 60-Day Injured List right now, but he’s just 26 years old and is a former first-round pick. He developed through the Red Sox’s farm system when Chaim Bloom was over in Boston. Right now, he’s injured. When he is ready to go, there’s no clear spot for him in Boston with Willson Contreras at first base and an outfield logjam occupying the DH spot. Casas had injury-filled 2024 and 2025 seasons, but when he’s healthy, he can hit the cover off the ball. If Boston made him available, the Cardinals should be all over him, despite a questionable positional fit.
