In an effort to add depth to their infield, the St. Louis Cardinals traded for third baseman/outfielder Michael Helman from the Minnesota Twins. The deal, made on Thursday, involved the Cardinals sending cash considerations to the Twins in exchange for Helman. The 28-year-old had limited playtime with the Twins in 2024, appearing in nine games and recording three hits, including two doubles, in 10 at-bats. This marks the Cardinals’ first money-spent acquisition of the offseason, as they have yet to sign a free agent this winter.
Cardinals’ Offseason Strategy and Future Plans
The Cardinals are approaching the 2025 season with a focus on developing a younger core, following a disappointing 83-79 record in 2024 that resulted in missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year. The team has indicated a “reset” for the upcoming season, prioritizing player development and providing opportunities for young talents like Masyn Winn, Jordan Walker, Nolan Gorman, and Thomas Saggese. The team’s strategy reflects an emphasis on growth, with less focus on adding high-priced veterans as seen in the past.
As part of their rebuilding efforts, the Cardinals are reportedly exploring trade opportunities involving 10-time Gold Glove winner Nolan Arenado, who has expressed a desire to be traded to a contending team. Arenado’s contract, which has $64 million remaining, remains a significant factor in any potential deal.
Although trade talks with teams such as the Boston Red Sox have been ongoing, discussions have stalled due to disagreements over how much of Arenado’s salary the Cardinals are willing to absorb. Arenado’s no-trade clause complicates matters, with the third baseman blocking a potential trade to the Houston Astros in December.
Potential Trade Return for Arenado
The Cardinals have been discussing potential trade packages with various teams, with one player of interest being Blaze Jordan, a powerful first baseman in the Red Sox system. Jordan, ranked the No. 22 prospect in the Red Sox farm system, could be a key part of a trade for Arenado. The Cardinals have been in contact with several teams, including the Red Sox, Yankees, and Dodgers, about a potential deal for the star third baseman. Front-office advisor Chaim Bloom, who has a deep knowledge of the Red Sox’s farm system, could play a pivotal role in facilitating this trade.
If Arenado is traded, it would open up playing time for young players like Nolan Gorman and Thomas Saggese. Gorman, a 24-year-old who has shown impressive power with 41 home runs in his first two seasons, would transition to his natural position at third base, after struggling in the outfield last season. Saggese, who impressed in his debut and throughout the Arizona Fall League, would also benefit from more playing time. A trade would help the Cardinals focus on developing their younger talent while clearing space for their future stars.