The St. Louis Cardinals have just concluded an up-and-down opening month to the 2025 regular season. Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado are powering the offense, which has started to click after a shaky beginning.
Despite their recent improvements, inconsistent play has left them near the bottom of the National League Central standings. Still, with the division being one of the most competitive in MLB, they remain within reach of first place. A shift in mentality could be key to turning things around in St. Louis.
When examining the Cardinals’ lineup, there aren’t any glaring weaknesses. The main issue appears to be the team’s age dynamic. Young players like Jordan Walker, Nolan Gorman, and Victor Scott II are still adjusting to life in the big leagues, as noted by ESPN. But even with their inexperience, all have shown promising signs. Their next challenge is becoming more consistent both offensively and defensively.
The Cardinals could end up being a major factor in shaping the MLB trade market. Depending on their position in the standings as the deadline nears, they could easily become buyers or sellers.
With the team hovering in the middle, determining the right approach is difficult. On one hand, giving their young core playoff exposure could pay off, but on the other, acquiring assets for the future might be the smarter long-term move.
With that in mind, here are three potential trade targets the Cardinals could pursue if they decide to push for a playoff spot.
Miami Marlins Pitcher Sandy Alcantara
Sandy Alcantara, a former Cy Young winner and All-Star, has consistently ranked among the league leaders in innings pitched. Since his 2022 Cy Young season, his performance with the Marlins has declined, though part of that can be attributed to Miami’s consistently weak offense during his tenure.
Despite recent struggles, Alcantara remains one of the top names on the trade market and could have a significant impact if he lands in the right situation.
While the Cardinals’ rotation isn’t terrible, it’s missing a true ace. Sonny Gray currently fills that role, but at 35, he may be stretched thin.
If the 29-year-old Alcantara joins the team, he would instantly take over as the rotation’s leader. Offensively, St. Louis doesn’t rank among the league’s most powerful, but they do have proven clutch players like Nolan Arenado.
Alcantara is expected to draw strong interest from multiple teams this summer. The Marlins will have a variety of trade offers to consider, but the Cardinals are well-positioned to put together the most compelling package of players and prospects to land the star pitcher.
Chicago White Sox Outfielder Luis Robert Jr.
Luis Robert Jr., a former All-Star currently on a struggling White Sox team, remains a top trade candidate.
Despite his name surfacing in trade talks for years, Chicago has yet to part ways with him—either because they see him as a key piece of their ongoing rebuild or simply haven’t received an offer that meets their expectations. One team that has the assets to make a deal happen is the St. Louis Cardinals.
If acquired by St. Louis, Robert Jr. would be a strong fit in the lineup—potentially pushing Lars Nootbaar to center field or replacing Nolan Gorman as the designated hitter. His two-way value is undeniable; Robert Jr. has both a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger to his name during his six seasons in the league.
While the Cardinals have several veterans, manager Oliver Marmol would benefit from adding another experienced presence.
Robert Jr. could serve as a valuable mentor for Jordan Walker—another powerful, athletic outfielder—who’s still learning to excel on both sides of the ball. With his proven track record, Robert Jr. brings immediate value and long-term impact to the Cardinals.
Washington Nationals First Baseman Josh Bell
Josh Bell has been a frequent name in trade rumors in recent seasons, and many experts anticipate he’ll be wearing a new uniform before this season concludes.
Importantly, his name being floated in trades isn’t due to poor performance. Contending teams appreciate his steady power at the plate and view him as a potential difference-maker. While Bell is having a down year in his tenth MLB season, his track record suggests he’s likely to rebound.
With the trade deadline approaching, Bell represents a classic buy-low opportunity for teams seeking offensive reinforcement. The St. Louis Cardinals stand out as a logical destination, especially given their roster adjustments this year.
Due to Ivan Herrera’s rise, Willson Contreras has been playing more first base. Though he’s handling the position capably, Contreras clearly feels more natural behind the plate. Acquiring Bell would allow manager Oli Marmol to move Contreras back to catcher—perhaps in a timeshare with Herrera—while Bell takes over at first.
The direction of the Cardinals’ season remains uncertain. They might opt to sell high on veterans like Ryan Helsley and Nolan Arenado or instead double down on a postseason push. Either way, St. Louis is poised to be a major factor at the 2025 trade deadline, with their decisions likely shaping the market.
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