6 (mostly painful) predictions for the Cardinals' 2024-25 offseason

In trades, the Cardinals get young, cost-controlled pitching that can help right away

If the Cardinals are trading high-priced veterans and other impact players, they need to make sure they get a return. Again, this is something they should have done in 2023 when they were out of contention.

But they can do it now by trading away some of their stars. Helsley and Contreras are the kind of guys that can get you a good haul in return. Even Arenado could bring back a few decent players.

No, the Cardinals are likely not going to contend next year, but I'd like to see them add some more young arms to the mix. Perhaps they can compete for bullpen roles or even spots in the rotation next year. I'd rather see a young arm or two in the rotation than Matz or Mikolas.

But this time, I actually think the Cardinals will be able to do that. John Mozeliak will be consulting with Chaim Bloom on major roster decisions, and I believe Bloom's input will serve them well.

Matt Carpenter stays

This might be an unpopular take, but I actually think it makes sense to keep Matt Carpenter. Think about it. The Cardinals are trying to get younger, and signing somebody like Justin Turner or J.D. Martinez will only block younger players. Matt Carpenter won't.

He won't be an everyday player, but the young guys can still benefit from having his veteran presence around. He's good for clubhouse morale and mentorship. Signing a guy like Turner or Martinez is a move you make if you're trying to contend, which the Cardinals are not.

In my opinion, it really can't hurt to do this. I understand people who say it doesn't make sense because of his age, but you have to have some veteran guys around, and one who won't block younger players can't hurt.