The St. Louis Cardinals are anticipated to be very active this offseason as they try to clear out their outfield stalemate.
St. Louis needs to add starting pitching, and the free agent market will be fierce. The Cardinals are certain to sign one or two starters in free agency, but three starters may not be as likely as they think. St. Louis is sure to turn to the trade market, and many players have already been connected to potential transactions. Despite this, it does not appear that the club will move either Jordan Walker or Lars Nootbaar.
“St. Louis has told other teams it doesn’t plan on moving outfielders Jordan Walker or Lars Nootbaar but others will be in play,” Passan told the media. “Teams believe the most likely candidate is (Tyler O’Neill), who is a year away from free agency and clashed with manager Oli Marmol this year.” Another strong buy-low prospect is (Dylan Carlson). And (Tommy Edman), a fantastic utility player who can also play shortstop, is the most valuable of the three.”
Over the recent year, Nootbaar and Walker’s names have been in a few trade rumors. They may appear now and then, but a relocation has never been expected. O’Neill has appeared to be the most likely trade option since Opening Day last year, while Carlson has also piqued the curiosity of many. Edman impressed this season and can play all over the field, so it’s not unexpected that other teams are interested in him.
St. Louis has an outfield stalemate, so it wouldn’t be unexpected to see the club trade O’Neill, Carlson, or Edman this summer, especially if the transaction brings a starting pitcher back to St. Louis. Even with Nootbaar, their outfield would remain a strength.
