The St. Louis Cardinals made a significant move ahead of Thanksgiving by trading veteran right-handed pitcher Sonny Gray to the Boston Red Sox as part of a multi-player deal. This trade may mark the first major decision under new top executive Chaim Bloom, who is expected to continue reshaping the Cardinals’ major league roster this offseason.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, CBS Sports highlights five Cardinals players who could potentially be traded before Opening Day. These players include:
1. Harrison Donovan: Controlled by the team through 2027, Donovan is a strong trade candidate due to his consistent on-base performance and defensive versatility, attracting interest from teams like the Yankees, Guardians, and Astros.
2. Nolan Arenado: With two years and $42 million left on his contract, Arenado has been subject to trade rumors for over a year. While his offense has declined, he remains a solid defensive third baseman. Potential suitors include the Phillies, Tigers, and Red Sox.
3. Will Contreras: With two years and $36.5 million remaining (plus options for 2028), Contreras showed strong offensive numbers in his recent full season as a first baseman. However, his age and profile may limit interested teams, possibly requiring the Cardinals to cover part of his salary to facilitate a trade. Possible suitors include the Reds, Yankees, and Padres.
4. Jordan Gorman: Scheduled through 2028, Gorman has struggled since entering the league, with swing-and-miss issues and positional challenges. He may become a non-tender candidate next winter, with teams like the Pirates, Royals, and Rays potentially interested.
5. Deivi Romero: Under team control until 2026, Romero has been effective as a left-handed specialist with a 2.93 ERA over three years. His pitching style could fit well with teams possessing strong infield defense, such as the Yankees, , and Tigers.
Fan Take: This wave of potential trades signals a major shakeup for the Cardinals and offers fans a glimpse into how new leadership intends to rebuild and strategize. For baseball enthusiasts, these moves could redefine team dynamics and competitive landscapes, making the next season an exciting one to watch.
