St. Louis Cardinals: 3 free agent bench options to consider

The St. Louis Cardinals have several items on their wish list for the 2023 season, including an Albert Pujols-like replacement for the bench. 

When Albert Pujols returned to the St. Louis Cardinals in 2022, no one knew just how important he would be to the team’s season. He was able to provide backup to first base and be an effective designated hitter down the stretch. The Cardinals then had the bonus of his presence in the clubhouse and lineup.

It’s doubtful any club will have that again, but the Cardinals need to find a way to replicate the magic they received from Pujols.

While the Cardinals’ main priority has been finding a replacement for catcher Yadier Molina, the Cardinals will need pitching and a bench option that could turn backup and designated hitter.

Let’s look at some options available for the Cardinals.

Andrew McCutchen could provide Cardinals veteran leadership

With 14 seasons in the books, Andrew McCutchen is consistently one of the more feared hitters in the league. At least for Cardinals fans.

For the Brewers, he hit .237/.316/.384 with an OPS of .700. He knocked 17 home runs and 69 RBIs. He had eight stolen bases as well. Not bad for a 36-year-old man. He doesn’t hit to opposite fields or get his bat on off-speed pitches. He still powers through to get on base and move his teammates around. The Cardinals desperately needed this in 2022, especially down the stretch.

A backup outfielder who can hit and move along the base path would be an essential find for the Cardinals this offseason. McCutchen may be just the player to sign, given his veteran status and ability to hit and run. He would influence the younger players looking to pick his brain regarding their speed along the base path.

He definitely wouldn’t garner a large contract, but a contract loaded with incentives for a couple of seasons may benefit McCutchen and the Cardinals.

Cody Bellinger would be a good backup outfielder, DH

Cody Bellinger is an odd fit for the Cardinals. He is a laid-back character who has had a lot of injuries, leading to his electing free agency. Luckily, he does not want a huge contract. A short-term deal will work for him as he works to build himself back up.

The 27-year-old lefty could provide backup to the outfield. Dylan Carlson and Tyler O’Neill have also experienced their fair share of injuries. He can also help as a designated hitter or pinch running.

Bellinger hit .210/.265/.389 with an OPS of .654. He has a career OPS of .819. This season he hit 19 home runs, 68 RBI, and had 14 stolen bases.

He was the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year and the NL MVP in 2019. With the Dodgers rumored to be going after some big names, it’s easy to see why they may have been ok with allowing Bellinger to walk. While the Rockies and Giants are interested in him, Bellinger would be an intriguing fit with the Cardinals as they look to solidify their outfield situation. While Dylan Carlson would be a great Cardinals centerfielder, with his recent struggles, it may be worth a shot to have Bellinger on the club, even with his efforts. He is still a talented athlete. Having Bellinger and Carlson compete for playing time may benefit the two athletes and the Cardinals.

As he wants a short-term deal, Bellinger could prove an inexpensive piece toward a successful season.