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Cardinals' Smart Strategy: Pitcher Flipping Pays Off Again
22 Oct
Summary
- Cardinals traded pitcher Dustin May to Brewers for two prospects.
- May previously stabilized rotation and rebuilt value for the Cardinals.
- Cardinals consider similar strategy with pitchers like Bubic and Griffin.
The St. Louis Cardinals' decision to sign pitcher Dustin May to a one-year, $12.5 million deal last December proved to be a shrewd move. The team aimed to bolster its uncertain rotation and, importantly, hoped May could overcome his injury woes to rebuild his trade value.
This strategy paid off, as May delivered a 4.38 ERA in 21 starts, enabling the Cardinals to trade him and JoJo Romero to the Milwaukee Brewers for outfield prospects Alexander Frias and Josiah Ragsdale. Both Frias and Ragsdale are considered significant future assets for St. Louis.
Encouraged by this success, the Cardinals are considering a similar approach for the upcoming season. While their rotation appears stronger, they are still seeking veteran arms. The hope is that a new acquisition might either become a long-term contributor or, like May, be a valuable trade chip at the deadline.
Potential targets include left-handers Kris Bubic and Foster Griffin, both of whom have dealt with injuries but possess significant talent. Right-handers Tyler Mahle and Jack Flaherty, along with a potential return for Dustin May himself, are also being considered as the Cardinals aim to replicate their successful strategy.
