
No. 3: Shortstop
Let’s be clear – Tommy Edman should be the Cardinals starting shortstop going into 2023. Edman has been an excellent player all of 2022 and is a terrific option to start everyday for the club there, especially if they want to rely on Nolan Gorman and Brendan Donovan next season.
The real need here is having another option at shortstop. Paul DeJong’s days are numbered in St. Louis and should not be on the roster Opening Day. Maysn Winn is the future starting shortstop for the Redbirds, but likely won’t make an impact until 2024. The Cardinals need a stopgap option to spell Edman from time to time.
When Edman hit a rough stretch in the middle of the summer, it came in the midst of the club using him every single day, grinding him away at the top of the order and filling in all over the diamond. Edman would benefit greatly from receiving more off days, but the club needs a competent option do to so.
Maybe a name like Jose Igesias would sign in St. Louis with the opportunity to play frequently at shortstop, second base, and third base, or maybe a potential reunion with a guy like Aledmys Diaz. The club could look to acquire a AAA level player or veteran via trade as well, and plug them in behind Edman for the year.
Whatever it looks like, the Cardinals need another option at shortstop. If the club truly believes in Winn, there is no need to spend big money on one of the free agent superstars at the position. Bargain shopping here could be a great move for the club.