The St. Louis Cardinals are gearing up for significant roster changes this offseason, as John Mozeliak enters his final year as president of baseball operations. With expectations of a rebuild, the team is likely to trade veteran players like Ryan Helsley and Sonny Gray to focus on strengthening their farm system. However, Josh Jacobs of *Redbird Rants* suggests that the Cardinals could take an alternative approach by acquiring young stars instead of solely trading for prospects.
Jacobs proposed a blockbuster trade idea involving Chicago White Sox star outfielder Luis Robert Jr., valued at $50 million. His suggested deal would see the Cardinals sending first baseman Alec Burleson and right-handed pitcher Gordon Graceffo to Chicago in exchange for Robert. Highlighting center field as a key area for improvement, especially with the need for a right-handed bat, Jacobs argued that Robert’s acquisition could significantly elevate the Cardinals’ roster.
“Center field is easily the position the Cardinals could stand the most to upgrade at, especially adding a right-handed bat. Robert could be worth the risk for the club, but it will cost them something to make it happen,” Jacobs explained. He added that Burleson, a young bat with substantial team control, could fit into the White Sox’s rebuilding plans as a potential cornerstone for their next competitive phase.
Despite the appeal of this proposal for St. Louis, the likelihood of such a trade materializing is slim. Last season, the White Sox reportedly sought a “Juan Soto-esque” haul for Robert, which no team agreed to meet. The inclusion of Burleson and Graceffo alone would likely be dismissed by Chicago, as Robert’s value far exceeds what is offered in this hypothetical package. With club options extending through 2027, Robert’s value remains exceptionally high.
For the Cardinals to realistically acquire a player of Robert’s caliber, a more substantial offer would be necessary. Prospects like shortstop JJ Wetherholt (ranked No. 18 overall by MLB Pipeline), right-hander Tink Hence (No. 61), or left-hander Quinn Mathews (No. 77) would likely need to be included, alongside players like Burleson and Graceffo. Without such significant assets on the table, the dream of landing Robert remains unrealistic for the Cardinals.
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