Cardinals Not Done As Trade Deadline Approaches

Just one day after Edwin Jackson picked up an impressive victory over the Cubs in his team debut with the Cardinals, St. Louis is on the verge of another big transaction before tomorrow’s 4:00 pm trade deadline. According to several sources, the Cards are close to reaching a deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers for shortstop Rafael Furcal.

The rumored deal would send Furcal and the $4 million of his remaining salary to St. Louis, but it is not yet clear what the Cards would give up if this deal goes through. The 33-year-old Furcal is scheduled to be a free agent after this season, and although he does have the right to veto any trade, he indicated that he would not waive it if traded to a contender. Given the current state of the Dodgers franchise, I think Furcal would be crazy not to accept a trade, no matter what the circumstances.

The Cardinals have had problems at shortstop for quite some time, and it’s probably safe to say that an upgrade is seriously needed. Ryan Theriot, whom the team thought would fill the void at short, has struggled all season long, hitting.270/.316/.331. He would likely find himself in a utility role assuming Furcal is dealt to St. Louis and is able to stay healthy, both of which are very much in question at this point and time. This trade would also be in the best interest of the Dodgers because it would allow prospect Dee Gordon to get some playing time down the stretch.

These latest trade rumors have really come out of nowhere for Cards fans, but it’s no secret that the team could use a closer and/or some middle infield depth. At the end of the day, it’s nice to see that John Mozeliak isn’t satisfied with the current roster in the thick of an intense NL Central race. Maybe the Phillies’ recent acquisition of Hunter Pence has something to do with that, but either way, it seems as though the Cardinals are gaining the upper hand over the Brewers, Pirates, and Reds.