Fri Jul 04 22:50:00 UTC 2025: **Cardinals Eye Minor Tweaks at Trade Deadline as Young Players Develop**
**St. Louis, MO – July 1st** – As the MLB trade deadline looms, the St. Louis Cardinals find themselves in contention in the NL Central, balancing a desire to compete with the ongoing development of their young players. After a failed attempt to trade Nolan Arenado in the spring, President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak committed to a dual-track approach, giving young players opportunities while remaining competitive.
Several young Cardinals have impressed, including Matthew Liberatore, Ivan Herrera (when healthy), Victor Scott II, Alec Burleson, Kyle Leahy, and Pedro Pages. Veteran players like Arenado, Brendan Donovan, Willson Contreras, and Sonny Gray have provided a stable foundation.
Alec Burleson has emerged as a standout, ranking among the top left-handed hitters in MLB since April 22nd, with a 148 wRC+ and a .324 batting average. While his defense is average, his offensive production warrants a long-term role in the team’s plans.
Erick Fedde, on the other hand, has struggled mightily, ranking last among qualified starters in K-BB% and featuring the worst xFIP and SIERA. His trade value is minimal.
Looking ahead to the trade deadline, the Cardinals are unlikely to make any blockbuster moves but may target smaller acquisitions to improve their chances of reaching the 90-win mark. Potential areas of focus include bolstering the bullpen with a veteran reliever and adding a right-handed bat to balance the outfield against left-handed pitching.
One potential target is Miami Marlins outfielder Dane Myers, who boasts impressive numbers against lefties and is a plus defender. Another possible addition is Marlins reliever Anthony Bender, a groundball specialist who would provide flexibility to the bullpen.
Ultimately, the Cardinals’ activity at the trade deadline will depend on the cost of acquiring these players, as they seek to improve both their present and future prospects.
First Piper 