With the MLB Trading Deadline not much
longer away, Cardinals' GM John Mozeliak and the front office have some serious
decisions to make within the next few days--whether it be to be buyers or
sellers--by the end of the dealine of July 31st.
With the team being in third place in
the National League Central division race--and still in contention for the
National League Wild Card race, this weekend's three game series against the
Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field could and probably will decide a lot of the fate
regaurding what the team essentially decides to do. Here is a look at RedBird
Nation's Top Six potential trade targets as of this morning;
Peter Bourjos (L.A. Angels): Bourjos
would provide a right-handed bat in center field and could platoon with Jon Jay
to spell him every now and then. And he’s a stolen base threat as well.
Francisco Rodriguez (Brewers): I don’t
think the Cardinals will trade within their division but they might. K-Rod is
one of the most reliable bullpen arms in the game and could use a change of
scenery after the entire closer situation that saw John Axford move to the 8th
inning guy. The Cardinals would have to give up good prospects to get him but
Mo has saidhe won’t “throw away” the farm system.
Jonathan Broxton (Royals): Broxton
would give the Cardinals and additional option at closer and would take the
pressure off Jason Motte. Motte currently has 22 saves while Broxton has 23.
Broxton could help out as well.
James Shields (Rays): The Cardinals
need another starter and who better than Shields. He’s got a low-ish E.R.A. and
has big strikeout stuff. He would pose a threat added to the reigning World
Series Champion staff. Give Shields enough offense and he’ll help a club no
problem.
Kelly Johnson (Blue Jays): Kelly
Johnson would provide depth at 2nd base. Face it. That’s one of the Cardinals
weaknesses in 2nd base. Kolten Wong is the future but he’s still several years
away. Plus the Cardinals have been interested in Johnson since his playing days
with the Braves and Diamondbacks. Johnson also has been interested in coming to
St.Louis since his trade to Toronto.
Rick Ankiel (Nationals): A reunion
with the most unlikely of players. Ankiel would provide another veteran
presence in a line-upthat has only 3 former teammates of Ankiel. His production
would help solidify an already solid bench for the Cardinals. Ankiel can play
all 3 outfield positions, which would help spell either Beltran, Jay, or even
Holliday. Ankiel would also give Matheny options pinch-hitting as well.
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