5 players the Cardinals should consider selling high on

C Willson Contreras

Having three catchers on this list is bizarre for a team that cried catcher poor following the departure of Yadier Molina. Willson Contreras, despite his time spent on the Injured List last year, has tremendous value.

Contreras has three years remaining on his deal before a club option in 2028, and he's owed $18 million each year with an escalator to $18.5 million in 2027. All things considered, that's a very manageable contract for a catcher who could eventually become a full-time designated hitter. Even when considering contracts of DHs with similar production right now, Contreras is right in line with players like Giancarlo Stanton, Yordan Alvarez, and others in both production and cost.

Willson finished 2024 with a .262/.380/.468 slash line and a 136 OPS+. He hit 15 home runs and drove in 79 baserunners in only 301 at-bats. His 136 OPS+ was the best of his career and that's while catching 51 out of 84 games.

Defensively, Contreras graded out positively in blocking and caught stealing percentage. He was below average in pop time and framing, though framing will eventually become an unnecessary art once the Automated Ball-Strike System is implemented across baseball.

Despite Contreras's pricey contract, he still carries ample value. He's a veteran of the game who has improved his catching skills while still providing well-above-average offensive output. He would be a great trade candidate to both save money and bring back several prospects.