On Wednesday, rumors surfaced that the St. Louis Cardinals had a trade potentially in the works, but that they did not want to reveal specifics out of fear of hurting their chances of getting it done.
Aside from signing Willson Contreras to a five-year, $87.5 million contract, it’s been a pretty quiet offseason in St. Louis.
The team still has some glaring needs.
With only Steven Matz under contract for 2024, the Cards could use some extra starting pitching help.
They could also use another left-handed bat to replace Corey Dickerson.
One fan suggested that the Cardinals might be talking to the Los Angeles Dodgers about Trevor Bauer, who Los Angeles is expected to part ways with.
But Cardinals insider Jeff Jones quickly shut down the idea of Bauer coming to St. Louis.
Bowden might’ve been talking about his wallpaper for or all I know, but Bauer isn’t happening. Period.
— Jeff Jones (@jmjones) January 6, 2023
Given Bauer’s suspension due to allegations of sexual assault, it makes sense that a team like the Cardinals would not want that kind of distraction in their clubhouse.
Still, a top-level starting pitcher would be most beneficial for the Cards.
St. Louis passed up on Carlos Rodon, Jacob deGrom, and Justin Verlander.
They also let Jose Quintana walk.
But it appears that Bauer is not even being considered by the team.
Perhaps a trade for Miami Marlins right-hander Pablo Lopez could be in the works, as St. Louis has previously had interest in him.
A reunion with right-hander Michael Wacha, who had a bounce-back season with the Boston Red Sox, may also be possible.
But one thing is for sure.
Trevor Bauer will not be a St. Louis Cardinal.
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