The other names you might have in mind – Nootbaar, Contreras, Walker, and so on – should not be moved for just anything. Sure, if a deal comes across the table that brings in a higher than expected level of prospect, go for it.
But, the Cardinals still need to fill out a roster. Nootbaar had a terrible season and has not lived up to what some thought he could be, but selling low when your outfield is already thin seems irresponsible. If you want to simply move on you better add multiple outfielders when doing so.
As much as I’d love for Jordan Walker to have a change of scenery, I cannot convince myself that he will be given that. At 24 years old, and heading into a year without many team expectations, I think the Cardinals give him one more shot.
As for Contreras, move him if you get the right deal and he agrees. There have been reports that Contreras wanted to stay but I wonder how other moves this winter might change his mind.
His catching days are likely over, which does hurt his value a bit, but the bat still plays. It’s not the worst idea to hold until the trade deadline and see if he’s willing to leave in hopes of another ring.
Final Thoughts
Times surely are changing in St. Louis. The latest version of Cardinals baseball produced a number of average, to above average, players but did not erect a star. We saw “the best fans in baseball” watch from home as Busch Stadium was as empty as we have ever seen it.