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Cardinals Trade Rumors Heat Up at Winter Meetings | Braves' Joey Wentz Out for Season with ACL Tear | Can Juan Soto Upset Ohtani for the 2026 NL MVP? | Ceddanne Rafaela Gains Experience and Insights at the World Baseball Classic | Harry Ford's Home Run and Royal Guard Celebration at the World Baseball Classic | Braves Stars Shine in 2026 World Baseball Classic | Joseph Contreras: Following in His Father's Footsteps to the MLB Draft | Byron Buxton's Place in Twins History: Analyzing His Legacy and Future | Pirates and Reds Exchange Tyler Callihan for Kyle Nicolas in Trade | Cardinals Trade Rumors Heat Up at Winter Meetings | Braves' Joey Wentz Out for Season with ACL Tear | Can Juan Soto Upset Ohtani for the 2026 NL MVP? | Ceddanne Rafaela Gains Experience and Insights at the World Baseball Classic | Harry Ford's Home Run and Royal Guard Celebration at the World Baseball Classic | Braves Stars Shine in 2026 World Baseball Classic | Joseph Contreras: Following in His Father's Footsteps to the MLB Draft | Byron Buxton's Place in Twins History: Analyzing His Legacy and Future | Pirates and Reds Exchange Tyler Callihan for Kyle Nicolas in Trade

MLB / Teams

Cardinals Trade Rumors Heat Up at Winter Meetings

As the MLB Winter Meetings approach, the St. Louis Cardinals find themselves at the center of trade discussions, with several key players potentially on the move. The team is looking to increase roster flexibility and address their logjam o...

Inside the Cardinals’ trade plans as baseball’s Winter Meetings approach - The Athletic
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Cardinals Trade Rumors Heat Up at Winter Meetings Image via The New York Times

Key Insights

  • Willson Contreras is open to trade offers and willing to waive his no-trade clause for the right fit.
  • Brendan Donovan is a highly coveted trade candidate, but the Cardinals will only move him for an offer they can’t refuse.
  • Lars Nootbaar is also drawing interest, and a trade is increasingly likely due to the Cardinals' roster situation.
  • The Yankees are reportedly interested in acquiring Willson Contreras to fill their need for a right-handed hitting catcher.

In-Depth Analysis

The Cardinals are entering a potential rebuild, making several players available for trade. Willson Contreras, who has two years and $36.5 million remaining on his contract, could be a valuable addition to a team seeking a strong offensive catcher. His willingness to return to catching increases his trade value. Brendan Donovan is another attractive option, coming off a career year and controllable through the 2027 season. However, the Cardinals have set a high price for him. Lars Nootbaar, despite recovering from heel surgery, is viewed by some clubs as having the highest offensive ceiling of the group. The Yankees, seeking a catcher, and the Red Sox are potential destinations for Contreras. The Cardinals' willingness to include money in deals, as evidenced by the Sonny Gray trade, could facilitate a Contreras trade to the Yankees.

Arenado's trade remains a challenge due to his no-trade clause and contract. The Cardinals are committed to trading Arenado, but it will require patience.

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FAQ

Why are the Cardinals considering trading Willson Contreras?

To increase roster flexibility, alleviate payroll concerns, and open up playing time for other players.

What teams are interested in Willson Contreras?

The New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets are potential suitors.

What is the Cardinals' asking price for Brendan Donovan?

The Cardinals are seeking a significant return and will only trade Donovan for an offer they can’t refuse.

Takeaways

  • The Cardinals are actively exploring trades for several key players, including Contreras, Donovan, and Nootbaar.
  • The Yankees are a potential landing spot for Contreras, as they seek to upgrade their catching position.
  • The Winter Meetings will be crucial in determining the Cardinals' offseason moves.

Discussion

Do you think the Cardinals will trade Contreras, Donovan, or Nootbaar? Which team would be the best fit for these players? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!

Sources

Disclaimer

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