The St. Louis Cardinals are not known for making big splashes on the trade block, but that doesn’t mean they are not making moves to secure their future success. While other teams may be looking to acquire big-name players, the Cardinals are focused on keeping their own stars in the fold by signing them to contract extensions.
The Cardinals have a history of building their team through their farm system and developing their own talent. This approach has led to numerous successful seasons and multiple World Series championships. And it looks like they are sticking to this strategy once again.
One of the biggest names on the Cardinals’ roster is first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. The six-time All-Star was acquired in a trade last year and has quickly become a fan favorite in St. Louis. Goldschmidt’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2019 season, but the Cardinals are already in talks to sign him to a long-term extension.
Goldschmidt has been a consistent performer throughout his career, averaging 30 home runs and 100 RBIs per season. He is also a strong defensive player, winning three Gold Glove awards. The Cardinals recognize his value to the team and are willing to invest in him for the long haul.
Another player the Cardinals are looking to lock up is pitcher Jack Flaherty. The 23-year-old right-hander had a breakout season in 2019, posting a 2.75 ERA and striking out 231 batters in 196.1 innings. Flaherty’s impressive performance earned him a fourth-place finish in the National League Cy Young Award voting.
Flaherty is under team control until 2024, but the Cardinals are not taking any chances. They have already started discussions on a contract extension that would keep him in St. Louis for years to come. With his young age and immense talent, Flaherty is seen as a key piece in the Cardinals’ future plans.
But it’s not just about keeping their current stars. The Cardinals are also looking to secure their future by signing their top prospects to extensions. One of these prospects is outfielder Dylan Carlson, who is considered one of the top prospects in all of baseball. Carlson had a breakout season in the minors in 2019, hitting .292 with 26 home runs and 20 stolen bases.
The Cardinals are eager to see Carlson continue his development and have already started discussions on a contract extension. By locking him up early, the team is showing their confidence in his potential and securing his services for years to come.
The Cardinals’ approach to building their team through their own talent has proven to be successful time and time again. By signing their stars to contract extensions, they are not only securing their future success, but also showing their commitment to their players and their fans.
In addition to securing their own players, the Cardinals have also made some strategic moves in the free agent market. They recently signed veteran pitcher Adam Wainwright to a one-year deal, bringing back a familiar face and a leader in the clubhouse. Wainwright has been with the Cardinals since 2005 and has been a key contributor to their success over the years.
The Cardinals may not be making headlines with big-name signings, but they are making smart and calculated moves to strengthen their team. By signing their stars to contract extensions and bringing back familiar faces, the Cardinals are building a strong foundation for future success.
As the 2020 season approaches, the Cardinals are in a good position to compete for another playoff run. With their talented core locked up and a few strategic additions, the team is poised to make a strong push for the World Series.
So while other teams may be making flashy moves, the Cardinals are quietly securing their own future success. And that’s a strategy that has proven to be successful time and time again. As a fan, it’s exciting to see the team’s commitment to their players and their dedication to building a winning team. So let’s go Cardinals, and let’s bring another championship home to St. Louis!
