There has been uncertainty surrounding the Cardinals’ plans for the 2025 season. Initially, reports suggested a reset year with a focus on player development and a reduction in payroll. However, recent statements from John Mozeliak indicate a shift in strategy towards fielding a competitive team with younger players taking on bigger roles. While the team may still spend less in 2025, they may opt for a less aggressive approach rather than actively pursuing trades for veteran players.
Prior expectations included the potential availability of players like Nolan Arenado, Willson Contreras, Sonny Gray, Ryan Helsley, and others. However, recent reports suggest Contreras and Gray may prefer to stay with the team, impacting trade decisions. It appears Contreras will transition to first base to evaluate younger catchers, while Gray’s future with the team remains undecided. Helsley may also be retained despite trade speculations, with potential risks involved in delaying a decision on his status.
The Cardinals seem to be aiming for a balance between rebuilding and contending in 2025. They plan to give playing time to promising but unproven players like Nolan Gorman, Jordan Walker, Lars Nootbaar, Alec Burleson, Pedro Pagés, and Iván Herrera. The team hopes these players can step up and contribute to a competitive season. This strategy involves a focus on internal development and evaluating the potential of their young talent.
The team’s approach is to provide opportunities for these players to prove themselves and potentially lead the Cardinals to a successful season. The future of players like Arenado, Erick Fedde, Steven Matz, and Miles Mikolas remains uncertain, with decisions likely influenced by trade offers and performance in the upcoming season. The Cardinals are keeping their options open as they navigate the balance between building for the future and staying competitive in 2025.
