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5 free agents the St. Louis Cardinals shouldn’t bring back
JA Happ
J.A. Happ came to the Cardinals via trade at the perfect time. The team was able to trade away a pitcher in John Gant, who, while good, had grown ineffective. Happ came in and effectively gave the Cardinals innings and provided a break for a taxed bullpen.
Happ, a lefty, pitched 11 games for the Cardinals going 5-2 in 54 innings. He had 45 strikeouts and 17 walks in that time. Please note that between his time in St. Louis and Minnesota, Gant gave up 71 walks.
Happ was a tremendous help to the Cardinals. The team may not have been able to get through August and September without his arm. He should be thought of well by the Cardinal faithful.
That said, it would be best to go another route for the team’s pitching needs in 2022. While the team may look to one of their many pitching prospects, they could also use the money available to get a higher-end starter.
Happ was an excellent find and filled a huge need. But there is no sense in keeping him around for 2022 when other options are available.