As the St. Louis Cardinals head into the 2024 Winter Meetings, they face several critical needs to address in order to improve their roster and bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season. With an eye on returning to playoff contention, the Cardinals need to make some key moves. Here are three areas the team must focus on during the Winter Meetings:
1. Starting Pitching Upgrades
One of the most glaring needs for the Cardinals in 2024 is improving their starting rotation. In 2023, the team’s starting pitching struggled with consistency, often unable to go deep into games or keep opponents from scoring. The Cardinals’ pitching staff posted a below-average ERA, and they were especially vulnerable in the second half of the season. To compete in a highly competitive NL Central, the team must find reliable arms that can anchor the rotation.
The Cardinals have some solid young talent, such as Jack Flaherty and Jordan Montgomery, but they will need a more consistent and established veteran presence to help stabilize the rotation. Names like Sonny Gray, who is a free agent after an impressive 2023 season with the Minnesota Twins, could be a good fit. Additionally, the team should explore potential trade opportunities for high-quality starting pitchers. The addition of a top-tier starter would give the Cardinals the kind of rotation they can count on to win games in a tough division.
2. Bullpen Reinforcements
In addition to the starting rotation, the Cardinals’ bullpen also needs significant improvement. The bullpen was inconsistent in 2023, often struggling to hold leads and providing little relief to starters who were already struggling. The team finished the season near the bottom of the league in bullpen ERA and save percentage, which cost them numerous games.
The Cardinals have some promising pieces in their bullpen, but they need a more reliable core, particularly in late-game situations. Targeting a proven closer or high-leverage relievers would be a smart move. Free agents like Josh Hader or David Robertson could offer a stabilizing force at the back end of the bullpen. Additionally, acquiring middle relievers with the ability to bridge the gap to the later innings would be crucial to making the bullpen more reliable overall.
Another option could be to explore the trade market for relievers who can provide consistency and depth. The Cardinals have a deep farm system, which could allow them to acquire bullpen help without mortgaging their future. Reinforcing the bullpen is essential to ensure the team can close out games and not waste strong performances from their starting rotation.
3. Offensive Power and Depth
While the Cardinals’ offense has been solid in recent seasons, there’s still room for improvement, particularly when it comes to power and depth. The team has an impressive core of players like Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt, and Tyler O’Neill, but they need to add more consistency and pop, especially from their outfield and designated hitter positions. A power-hitting corner outfielder or a versatile bat would help the Cardinals avoid over-relying on their top stars.
The team could also explore the free-agent market for hitters who can provide balance in the lineup. Players like J.D. Martinez, who has a proven track record of hitting for power, or a player like Cody Bellinger, who can also play center field, could be valuable additions to bolster the offense. In addition, improving the bench with capable hitters who can contribute regularly would help prevent injuries or slumps from completely derailing the team’s offensive production.
Moreover, the team’s youth movement, with players like Jordan Walker and Masyn Winn, is an exciting aspect of the Cardinals’ future. However, ensuring they have enough veteran support around them, especially in high-pressure moments, will be key for continued success.
In conclusion, the Cardinals’ primary needs during the Winter Meetings are to strengthen their starting pitching, shore up their bullpen, and add power and depth to their lineup. By addressing these areas, they will be in a much better position to compete for the playoffs in 2024 and beyond. With smart signings and trades, the Cardinals can quickly shift the narrative from rebuilding to championship contention.
Leave a Reply