The St. Louis Cardinals find themselves in an undesirable position.
Typically, the Cardinals are perennial contenders in the National League, but the past two seasons have been a struggle. The 2023 season was particularly dismal, serving as a wake-up call for the team. Nothing clicked for them, prompting a push to improve ahead of 2024.
Despite making several moves, the Cardinals once again missed the playoffs, signaling a potential shift towards rebuilding. Chaim Bloom is set to take over as president of baseball operations after the 2025 season, with a focus on revitalizing the farm system.
As changes loom, it appears the organization may dismantle its current roster to start anew. However, Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller advises the team to instead invest significantly in an ace this winter, pointing to Baltimore Orioles’ Corbin Burnes as a potential free-agent target.
“The Cardinals haven’t signed a free agent for even $90 million since 2010, but they should definitely pursue one of the top pitchers,” Miller noted. “With at least $26 million coming off the books from Paul Goldschmidt’s free agency and likely declines on club options for Lance Lynn and Kyle Gibson, they’re in a position to make a splash.”
He added that with Miles Mikolas, Steven Matz, and Erick Fedde each having just one year left on their contracts, the Cardinals need to secure multiple long-term solutions. “Corbin Burnes has always performed well at Busch Stadium and might relish the chance to face the Brewers more frequently, especially after their contentious history.”
Burnes is expected to command a $180 million deal over six years, according to Spotrac. While the Cardinals could potentially restructure their payroll to accommodate him, landing him in St. Louis seems unlikely.