The St. Louis Cardinals have always been known for their strong pitching staff, but this season has been a bit of a struggle for them. Despite their best efforts, the team has faced some challenges on the mound. However, there is still hope for improvement as there are some talented free agents still available on the market. If the Cardinals want to boost their pitching game, they should consider signing these players.
One of the biggest names still unsigned is Dallas Keuchel. The left-handed pitcher has been a consistent force on the mound for the past few years, earning a Cy Young Award in 2015 and helping the Houston Astros win the World Series in 2017. Keuchel’s experience and success would be a valuable addition to the Cardinals’ rotation. He has proven himself to be a reliable starter, with a career ERA of 3.66 and an impressive 1.19 WHIP. His ability to induce ground balls and limit walks would be a huge asset to the Cardinals’ struggling pitching staff.
Another free agent that could make a big impact for the Cardinals is Craig Kimbrel. The closer has been one of the most dominant relievers in the game for the past decade, racking up 333 saves and a career ERA of 1.91. Kimbrel’s presence in the bullpen would give the Cardinals a much-needed boost in the late innings. With his intimidating fastball and devastating curveball, he has the ability to shut down any opposing team’s offense. Adding Kimbrel to their roster would not only improve the Cardinals’ pitching, but it would also give them a sense of security in close games.
The Cardinals could also benefit from signing Gio Gonzalez. The left-handed starter has been a consistent performer throughout his career, with a career ERA of 3.69 and a 1.29 WHIP. Gonzalez has proven himself to be a durable pitcher, making at least 27 starts in each of the past eight seasons. His experience and reliability would be a valuable addition to the Cardinals’ rotation, especially with the recent injuries to some of their starting pitchers.
In addition to these big names, there are also some lesser-known free agents who could provide depth and support to the Cardinals’ pitching staff. Players like Ervin Santana, Clay Buchholz, and Edwin Jackson have all had success in the past and could be valuable additions to the team. While they may not have the same star power as Keuchel or Kimbrel, they could still make a positive impact on the Cardinals’ pitching game.
It’s understandable that the Cardinals may be hesitant to sign free agents, as it would mean giving up draft picks and potentially taking on large contracts. However, with the team’s current struggles on the mound, it may be worth the risk to bring in some outside help. The Cardinals have a strong core of players, and adding a few key pieces could be the missing ingredient to their success this season.
Furthermore, signing these free agents would not only benefit the Cardinals in the short term, but it could also set them up for success in the future. With the National League Central division being highly competitive, the Cardinals need to do everything they can to stay ahead of the pack. Adding experienced and talented players to their roster would not only improve their chances of making the playoffs this year, but it could also set them up for success in the years to come.
In conclusion, the Cardinals’ pitching staff has faced some challenges this season, but there is still hope for improvement. With talented free agents like Dallas Keuchel, Craig Kimbrel, and Gio Gonzalez still available, the Cardinals have the opportunity to strengthen their pitching game and make a push for the playoffs. These players have proven themselves to be reliable and successful in the past, and their addition to the team could be just what the Cardinals need to turn their season around. So let’s hope the Cardinals make the right moves and bring in some much-needed help for their pitching staff. Go Cardinals!
