Cardinals Use Breakout Star As Trade Bait…

Cardinals Star Trade Bait…

Cardinals Plan to Use Breakout Star As ‘Trade Bait’

The Cardinals’ farm system currently contains a wealth of young talent.

The St. Louis Cardinals may face a log jam in their infield in the near future. There is a lot of talent in St. Louis and in the farm system, but there are only four places available around the infield. Masyn Winn and Willson Contreras are likely to play shortstop and first base, respectively, leaving only second and third base open for the future. The Cardinals have more than two talented infielders.

Cardinals Use Breakout Star As Trade Bait…

Mark Powell of FanSided recently stated that the Cardinals could utilise Brendan Donovan as “trade bait” with JJ Wetherholt on the verge of being promoted to the major leagues. “Donovan could be the Cardinals’ most desirable trade asset. Powell noted, “His contract is affordable, and he is still in his arbitration years.” “He’s making less than $3 million this season, batting.328 with a 2.00 WAR. Donovan can also play second base, third base and left field. He’d be a pricey but worthwhile addition to any serious contender.

“What makes Donovan expendable is the emergence of Double-A infielder JJ Wetherholt, who is only 22 years old and batting.284 with an.828 OPS.” While power is not his strong point, Wetherhold can play numerous infield positions (similar to Donovan) and was a past first-round pick. “He’s asking for a promotion.”

Cardinals Star Trade Bait…

Wetherholt is anticipated to be ready for a big league promotion by next season. There is a chance he will make a magical run to the major leagues this season, but it is unlikely, especially with prospect Thomas Saggese ahead of him. Most Cardinals supporters would prefer to see Donovan extended beyond his arbitration years rather than moved, but if the team is confident in Wetherholt as the future, capitalising on Donovan’s worth during a breakout season may make sense. A potential Donovan trade would be extremely beneficial to the Cardinals. It’s something to think about as the trade deadline approaches.