The St. Louis Cardinals have been one of Major League Baseball’s surprise success stories this season, outperforming expectations with a 33-25 record as of now. Despite entering the year in what was considered a transitional phase, they’re only three games behind the NL Central-leading Cubs. While a World Series title might be a stretch, a postseason appearance is very much on the table if their strong performance continues. Remarkably, this success is coming without the help of Nolan Arenado, who remains on the trade block, and Paul Goldschmidt.
Goldschmidt, who had a notable tenure in St. Louis, left in free agency this past offseason. Though a key figure during his time with the Cardinals, his final season saw a decline in production, hitting just .245 with a 1.3 WAR. However, a move to the New York Yankees has seemingly revitalized him. With a new hitting staff and renewed focus, Goldschmidt is off to an impressive start, hitting .338 with an .889 OPS—already surpassing his 2024 WAR in just two months.
Though the Cardinals can manage without Goldschmidt’s bat, they may feel his absence more in the leadership department. His influence in the clubhouse was significant. After a tough loss to the Dodgers, the veteran first baseman showed his steady presence by stressing the importance of rebounding and focusing on the long season ahead—words that reflect the maturity and leadership he brings to the Yankees.
The Cardinals, aware of the void Goldschmidt left, acknowledged earlier this year that replacing his leadership wouldn’t be easy. In spring training, younger players and staff pointed to Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan as potential successors in the clubhouse. Alec Burleson praised Donovan in particular, noting his team-first attitude and mentorship qualities.
However, both Arenado and Donovan could be on the move by the trade deadline if the team falters. Arenado rejected a trade to the Astros in the offseason but could be back on the market in July. Donovan, while less likely to be dealt, might eventually become expendable with JJ Wetherholt rising through the minors.
While focusing on youth development is the right approach for a retooling team, surrounding those prospects with veteran leaders remains crucial. The Cardinals’ front office must ensure they don’t lose sight of that balance as they build for the future.