Final Predictions for the St. Louis Cardinals Trade Deadline Moves

The Cardinals narrowly miss out on Juan Soto

While I would not be surprised if the club ends up with Soto in the next few days, signs point to the San Diego Padres moving heaven and earth to acquire the superstar.

Buster Olney has reported that rival executives believe the Padres will land Soto, and history would show that San Diego’s GM A.J. Preller is capable of such a move. The Padres also appear much more motivated to acquire Soto, willing to sacrifice the farm system for a chance at him.

The Cardinals are clearly major players for Soto, but John Mozeliak knows that for as good of a talent the 23 year old is, giving away all of the Cardinals top assets is risky business. The Cardinals have a history of contention year in and year out, because they develop top level talent and make shrewd moves in the trade market, even for superstars. Mozeliak is willing to give up more than he ever has for Soto, but not everything.

The Padres, on the other hand, have pressure to win right now, and would be willing to mortgage the future to do so. I believe the Cardinals’ final offer will be deemed worth by the Nationals of a Juan Soto trade, but then the Padres will come in with everything they have, and get the deal done. Although it would sting to come in second for Soto, missing out on him and not overpaying will probably pay off long term.

If San Diego stays disciplined though, Soto may be flying home with the Cardinals after their series with the Nationals.