The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be entering a potentially challenging rebuild this offseason, which will likely start with several trades.
One of the most notable trade candidates is Sonny Gray, a key figure on the Cardinals’ roster. Despite having a large contract and a no-trade clause that complicate any potential deal, Gray has reportedly shown some openness to waiving that clause this offseason.
Thomas Conroy of SB Nation recently reveal the San Diego Padres to go after Gray in a big offseason trade.
“Padres President of Baseball Operations and GM A.J. Preller is always willing to make a deal if the acquisition makes sense,” Conroy wrote. “The potential for significant turnover occurring in the Friars’ starting rotation next season is real. The only guarantee is Nick Pivetta will be starting for the Padres in 2026. If Preller needs to replace Cease and King in the rotation, acquiring Gray makes sense. Since he is in his walk year, Preller could negotiate taking on more of Gray’s salary in return for sending back lower-level minor league talent to the Cards.
“The statistical numbers show the 35-year-old can keep his team in games. Yes, the Padres have internal candidates, but Gray is a reliable starter who averages 34 starts per season for his career. Preller could look elsewhere for starting rotation help if a deal is not agreed upon quickly. Other options could include trading assets for a starting pitcher who is under team control for multiple seasons.”
The Padres are in urgent need of pitching help this offseason.
With Dylan Cease and Michael King both expected to land sizable contracts in free agency, it’s unlikely San Diego will be able to bring back both players—though re-signing one remains possible. Given that situation, pursuing a trade for Sonny Gray could be a logical move.
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