The St. Louis Cardinals made bold claims early in the offseason, emphasizing a shift toward youth in 2025 rather than contending immediately. However, they have yet to back this up with any moves to cut payroll or add promising young talent.
Nolan Arenado remains on the roster, and the Cardinals may find themselves needing to trade one or two starting pitchers—such as Erick Fedde or Steven Matz—to reduce payroll.
Mark Powell of FanSided suggested that the Atlanta Braves could be a potential trade partner, a sentiment echoed by Braves insider David O’Brien. “The Braves need starting pitching, especially after losing Max Fried to free agency and possibly Charlie Morton as well. A mid-rotation starter like Fedde or Matz could be a significant help for Atlanta,” Powell wrote.
Matz missed much of 2024 due to back issues, while Fedde, who joined the Cardinals in a trade deadline deal with the Chicago White Sox, could be another option.
Although these pitchers may not command a substantial return, trading veterans on expiring contracts would be a wise move if the Cardinals aren’t aiming to contend in 2025. With Arenado still on the roster and Ryan Helsley apparently staying put, this could be their most practical path forward.
It remains to be seen which direction the Cardinals will ultimately take.
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