Arenado, by contrast, posted only 0.9 fWAR with an 84 wRC+ in 107 games. That said, he is just three seasons removed from his 7.2 fWAR campaign in 2022 and has been above replacement level in other seasons prior. Sure, Arenado’s level of play has been in decline, but the loss stings all the same.
However, removing Gray from the Cardinals’ rotation may prove the most costly decision of the three. While Gray’s 4.28 ERA in 2025 may not turn heads, his 3.39 FIP and 3.07 xFIP were far more indicative of the pitcher Gray is capable of being.
Additionally, he made 32 starts and struck out 26.7% of batters with 3.6 fWAR over 180.2 innings. His results were easily the best of any of the Cardinals’ regular starters, and it will be tough to replace outright.
That said, it remains to be seen whether the ends will justify the means. Dating back to the 2025 trade deadline, the Cardinals have quietly collected a slew of promising young prospects. This includes players like Brandon Clarke, Yhoiker Fajardo, Jesus Baez, and Blaze Jordan.
This is in addition to top prospects like JJ Wetherholt and Leonardo Bernal knocking on the door to the majors. Not every prospect in the pipeline will pan out for St. Louis. Yet, there is plenty to be excited about for Cardinals fans.
Who Else Can the Cardinals Move?
JUPITER, FLORIDA – MARCH 06: Brendan Donovan #33 of the St. Louis Cardinals at bat during a spring training game against the Washington Nationals at Roger Dean Stadium on March 06, 2025 in Jupiter, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
Despite the series of trades the Cardinals have already pulled off, they still have plenty of trade capital. Chaim Bloom appears serious about bringing the Cardinals into a true rebuild. If so, he should make the most of their remaining pieces sooner rather than later.