The upcoming MLB trade deadline presents a crucial fork in the road for the St. Louis Cardinals. The strategy should no longer be whether they are buyers or sellers but whether they will commit to a full-blown, multi-year rebuild or aim for a quicker retool, seeking players who can contribute as early as next season.
Regardless of the precise timeline, one clear aim is to unload players on expiring contracts and those with high salaries who don't fit the long-term vision. Names like closer Ryan Helsley, reliever Phil Maton, and pitcher Steven Matz are prime candidates. While it's tough to part with established talent, getting something in return for them is paramount rather than losing them for nothing.