5 Critical Steps for the St. Louis Cardinals to Rebuild in 2025
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Embrace Youth and Move on from Paul Goldschmidt
Paul Goldschmidt’s performance has declined since his 2022 MVP season, and with free agency looming, it’s time for the Cardinals to move on. Goldschmidt slashed .245/.302/.414 with a wRC+ of 100 in 2024, marking career lows.
The Cardinals should shift their focus to their young talent, including players like Nolan Gorman and Masyn Winn. The young core is in place, and investing in their development while freeing up payroll space will help the Cardinals build for the future.
Keep Sonny Gray as the Staff Ace
The Cardinals finally addressed their rotation issues by signing Sonny Gray to a three-year, $75 million deal, but rumors suggest they may trade him to reduce payroll. This would be a mistake. Gray's 2024 performance (3.84 ERA, 3.12 FIP) proved he's still a reliable top-of-the-rotation arm. Trading him would dismantle the progress they've made in solidifying their pitching.
The Cardinals finished 20th in ERA (4.33) and 23rd in opponent batting average (.249), so Gray’s presence is vital. Instead of cutting costs, they should focus on strengthening their rotation around Gray.
Strengthen the Outfield with a Veteran Bat
While the Cardinals boast promising young outfielders like Jordan Walker and Lars Nootbaar, they need a veteran presence to stabilize the group. Bringing in an experienced outfielder like Michael Conforto or Max Kepler could provide consistency and leadership.
In 2024, the Cardinals' outfield lacked depth, and adding a solid veteran would balance the lineup. Conforto, with his power and steady bat, or Kepler’s defensive skills, would be valuable additions without hindering the growth of young players.
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Focus on Developing Pitching Depth
Despite some success in stabilizing their rotation with Sonny Gray, the Cardinals need to continue developing their pitching depth. The farm system has promising arms like Drew Rom and Michael McGreevy, but adding a veteran starter to complement Gray and the young talent is crucial.
Developing pitchers like Matthew Liberatore and Tink Hence is vital to building long-term stability in the rotation. Pitching was a weak spot in 2024; addressing it should be a top priority.
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Enhance Player Development and Analytics
The Cardinals have been reluctant to fully embrace modern analytics and player development strategies. Investing in advanced technology and building a robust player development system can transform their team. Teams like the Dodgers and Rays have proven the value of a data-driven approach.
Implementing cutting-edge analytics to enhance both hitting and pitching development will ensure the Cardinals remain competitive in a rapidly evolving MLB landscape.
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Embrace Youth and Move on from Paul Goldschmidt
Paul Goldschmidt’s performance has declined since his 2022 MVP season, and with free agency looming, it’s time for the Cardinals to move on. Goldschmidt slashed .245/.302/.414 with a wRC+ of 100 in 2024, marking career lows.
The Cardinals should shift their focus to their young talent, including players like Nolan Gorman and Masyn Winn. The young core is in place, and investing in their development while freeing up payroll space will help the Cardinals build for the future.
Keep Sonny Gray as the Staff Ace
The Cardinals finally addressed their rotation issues by signing Sonny Gray to a three-year, $75 million deal, but rumors suggest they may trade him to reduce payroll. This would be a mistake. Gray's 2024 performance (3.84 ERA, 3.12 FIP) proved he's still a reliable top-of-the-rotation arm. Trading him would dismantle the progress they've made in solidifying their pitching.
The Cardinals finished 20th in ERA (4.33) and 23rd in opponent batting average (.249), so Gray’s presence is vital. Instead of cutting costs, they should focus on strengthening their rotation around Gray.
