The 2022-23 MLB offseason is about to enter its final week, which means that free agency will officially come to an end until next offseason.
There are still a few serviceable free agents that have yet to sign, but the music is beginning to quiet down.
And for a team such as the St. Louis Cardinals, the opportunity may have been missed to build a stronger ballclub for 2023.
While the Willson Contreras signing was a key move that should significantly strengthen the team’s lineup, there are other holes that still have not been addressed.
On Twitter, a Cardinals fan retweeted a video of President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak at the Winter Meetings talking about all areas of the roster the team was reportedly looking at for potential improvement.
*sigh* https://t.co/jDMC387K1a
— Ryan (@The_Ryan_Shull) February 2, 2023
In the video, Mozeliak discusses starting pitching, a left-handed bat, and bullpen help.
With just over a week to go before the start of spring training, the Cardinals have addressed none of these areas, much to the displeasure of their fanbase.
Needless to say, time is running out.
Starting pitching appears unlikely to be addressed until the trade deadline at the earliest.
Bullpen additions remain possible, and there are plenty of serviceable relievers who have yet to sign.
Matt Moore, who enjoyed a bounce-back season with the Texas Rangers, could be a fit, as he can be used in relief and as a starter, which could help St. Louis address some of their needs.
But they may have missed their chance to find a solid lefty bat.
Ultimately, despite a clear need for change, the Cardinals have continued to trust their process of letting the market develop, which has continually cost them in recent years.
NEXT: Willson Contreras Stays Among The Elite After His Move
Why would the Cardinals spend millions more when the team is Already very competitive and even possibly excellent. The lefthanded “bats” will come from in-house young players that should be given the opportunity. The #1 issue after Contreras was a number one type pitcher.
Don’t worry about the Cards. They will discover who plays the outfield (for years to come), and the starting
pitching. If you want to worry, worry about 2024 pitching rotation,