There is a lot to be optimistic about for the Cardinals in 2019. The biggest reason being… the front office looks like they aren’t going to mess around this off-season, which is something every fan should be ecstatic about.
As Derrick Goold writes, GM Michael Girsch looks to build a roster that is a “division-leading roster.” That’s what I like to hear.
Derrick Goold on Twitter
‘If we had to start the season tomorrow we could run out a 25-man roster that would compete. But that’s not where we want to be. We want to be a 25-man roster that is a division-leading roster.’ — GM Michael Girsch as meetings open. #stlcards #Cardinals https://t.co/uoRRlakUqx
The Cardinals have just missed on numerous pieces over the past few seasons. Giancarlo Stanton turned down a trade that would have sent him to St. Louis, while free agents such as Jason Heyward and David Price were swayed by other teams. The Cardinals are in prime position to land a top free agent in 2019 whether it be Bryce Harper, Josh Donaldson, or Craig Kimbrel… Or all three… what it’s not my money.
But in reality, the Cardinals do have the means to bring in talent. President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak shares some of the selling points of playing for St. Louis.
KMOXSports on Twitter
As the GM Meetings begin today, John Mozeliak will begin making his pitch to some agents of the top MLB free agents. He gave us a few of his top “selling points” #STLCards https://t.co/vdjPQKKN3Z https://t.co/GPehSwbsDa
St. Louis has been linked to names like Josh Donaldson numerous times over the past few seasons, and for good reason. He is a talented player that fills a need for the organization. But in recent days, it’s been shown that the Cardinals are going to be players for some other top end talent as well. Jon Morosi reported just this morning that the Cardinals will be players for a closer. Craig Kimbrel looks to be at the top of the list. That’s a good name to bring in for sure.
Jon Morosi on Twitter
STLCards looking at free-agent closers, source says. One name on their list: Craig Kimbrel. My overview of the November market: https://t.co/iUowuNCgLn @MLBNetwork @MLB
A significant amount of news outlets also think the Cardinals are in prime position to land Bryce Harper. It helps that other top suitors such as the Cubs and Yankees seem to be out. The Yankees already have a loaded outfield. The Cubs would need to shed payroll in order to bring him in.
theScore MLB on Twitter
Report: Cardinals to explore Harper market, expect to be a player in free agency https://t.co/DMdppQrOnW
What’s nice is that the Cardinals are also loaded with depth at multiple positions, which could be key in the trade market this off-season. The Cardinals look to add bullpen help, and they certainly have the pieces to move in order to bolster the bullpen for 2019. Names such as Jedd Gyorko, Jose Martinez, or Carson Kelly seem to be the most popular trade options.
Do you believe the front office will make a splash this off-season, or will the fans be disappointed in the end product once again?
Send me your thoughts!
Thanks for Reading
Aaron M.
