The St. Louis Cardinals are exploring their options as they consider trading contracts for several star players this winter in an effort to reduce payroll.
While Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak has indicated that major player trades are unlikely this offseason, he hasn’t completely ruled them out.
There’s a chance for a significant trade between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Cardinals, which could bring St. Louis a new third baseman for the 2025 season.
Tim Kelly from Bleacher Report noted that the Cardinals might be interested in Alec Bohm or Bryson Stott if the Phillies’ valuation of them has decreased compared to last year, especially if closer Ryan Helsley is traded to Philadelphia.
Bohm had an impressive season with the Phillies, batting .280 with 61 extra-base hits, including 15 home runs, 97 RBIs, and a .780 OPS over 143 games.
As he enters his second arbitration year, the 28-year-old has an estimated market value of about $20.5 million annually and could land a seven-year, $144 million deal.
Although taking on such a costly contract would be difficult for St. Louis, the potential trade of 33-year-old Nolan Arenado might make them more inclined to deal Helsley to the Phillies for Bohm.
However, given the Cardinals’ focus on developing homegrown talent, it wouldn’t be surprising if Arenado is traded and former top prospect Jordan Walker returns to his familiar third base position.
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