A third of the 2018 season has come to a close, and as we near the All-Star Break, teams will begin to assess their needs, and decide what changes are needed. The Cardinals are loaded with talent, but seem to lack that explosive power in the lineup. The off-season acquisition of Marcell Ozuna was supposed to bring some of that power, but the fan base is left wanting more. We want more wins, more power, and more excitement. What can be done to improve the Bird’s chances coming into and out of the all-star break? With the pressure on to make the post season, I believe a move needs to be made to boost the offense.
The outfield was overhauled this year with the movement of both Piscotty and Grichuck, and the acquisition of Ozuna. Fowler has found little success at the plate. Even worse his defensive numbers have also been unimpressive. Bader looks to be getting the starts over Fowler for the time being, but Fowler is a clear weakness for the offense. Pham continues to sit in center, but has dropped off from what he had brought into the early season.
Jose Martinez has been a huge plus on offensive slashing 321/ 389/ 517 currently leading the team in all three categories. The result is him staying in the lineup playing first base. Ozuna is hitting the way we wanted and that beautiful swing is finally resulting in some home runs. His power seems to be on a uptick as the fan base is seeing him back to the hitter he had been with the Marlins.
The question remains, what can be done to boost this team into a higher level making them serious contenders? A starting rotation that boasts as being at the top of the national league and it should result in more wins. I believe it is time for the cardinals to try to fill the same problem that they have had for the past several years, they need a big bat.
Ken Rosenthal recently visited with Dan McLaughlin during a game versus the Cubs. He stated that to overcome the problems in the bullpen, he believes that the Cardinals need to find another big bat. I can’t help but agree with the statement and agree that the trade needed is to boost the offense.
I have seen many fans are calling for the trade of Dexter Fowler, but there is one massive problem. Fowler landed a no trade clause meaning his massive 14.5 million dollars is owed to him each year until 2021. Fowler is a part of this team until he is either designated for assignment, or agrees to be traded. So, for all of the fans hoping for a Fowler trade I am sorry to disappoint you, he is here to stay. The primary I think focus needs to be on the infield. Improving a subpar infield defense and adding a power bat could put the Cardinals higher in contention for the post season.
A dream trade would bring someone like Manny Machado to the infield. Being that he wants to play shortstop, it would mean moving Dejong to third or second, but defensively I don’t see this as too much of a problem. But what does the team give up in trade to make this happen? This trade has been analyzed this trade in the past, but given current team situations I don’t think the price has changed much.
The Orioles are on track to have potentially the worst year of any team baseball. Machado is one of the only upsides to that team. The defense that he could bring and the offensive power could have a big impact. I think a trade would have to be contingent upon an extension of his contract that gives the money he is worth. This also gives shortstop longer than half of a season and avoids a pricy rental. The Orioles need to think of their future, and if Machado isn’t a part of that, then the trade needs to benefit them as well. Their asking price indicates that they know this well.
Could the Cardinals give up Matt Carpenter, Dakota Hudson, and Luke Weaver/ Jack Flaherty? While a big cost, I think if it was contingent upon an extension the deal is fair. Carpenter has really begun to turn his season around. He has been a staple in this team for a few years, but it’s possible we could give him up for Machado’s talent. The bottom line is Machado is not cheap.
One other trade possibility that would cost less and with a similar situation is a trade with Kansas City for Mike Moustakas. While Moustakas doesn’t have all the flash that Machado does, he brings a powerful bat. We wouldn’t have to trade away quite as much. Instead of moving Dejong to another position, there would be an everyday third baseman. At this point it’s hard to say who the odd man out is, but Jedd Gyorko is someone that could potentially move. Maybe a straight trade, or adding a minor league pitcher such as Dakota Hudson or Ryan Helsley who shows great promise. Moustakas has been playing fairly well and could bring in 30+ home runs a year.
The Cardinals may have to make a move to continue contend with the NL Central. The bullpen has too many moving parts for a move or two to correct it. I don’t believe that bringing in a reliever or two would propel the team into a post season berth. With current relievers turning their season around and roles being defined, we just have to hope they can continue to hold it together. It is possible that adding a bat and improving the infields defense could help overcome the bullpen woes.
The trade deadline is July 31st, and it will be interesting to see if the Birds on the Bat make a big move, or trust in their current talent. Stay tuned to Arch City Media as Aaron Mullins will analyze another approach the team could take moving forward.
