The Golden Goose
In a move that probably made a lot of St. Louis Cardinals fans happy (I know I made a little squeal), the club acquired six-time All-Star Paul Goldschmidt from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for three young players and a conditional 2019 draft pick. It was a bold, win-now move for a club that needs bold moves.
Goldschmidt is a Gold Glove-caliber first baseman and the perfect slugger for the middle of the lineup. He’s by far the best first baseman they’ve had since Albert Pujols. He was the franchise face in Arizona and he could become that in St. Louis.
Of course, right field is still a bit up in the air for the Cardinals. The team is still in on the Bryce Harper craziness. I expect them to tender a lucrative offer to make him one of the highest-paid baseball players on the planet. He still might not come, but I think it won’t be because the Cardinals didn’t make a substantial offer. Plus, if they don’t land Harper it might mean Fowler has a shot at bouncing back after a truly miserable year. He could do it. I just don’t know. Otherwise, Tyler O’Neill is your starter in RF.
The only downside with the trade is Goldschmidt is a free agent after this year―a guaranteed one-year rental. The thought is to try and get him signed after the season, but it might also be better to look at trying to get Nolan Arenado after next season. It’s nice to have options.
I’m pleased management has decided to win now, like right now. I’m sure they are looking at Marcell Ozuna and Goldschmidt’s contracts and will only sign one after the 2019 season and they may part with both, so it’s now or never.
Personally, I’d like to be rid of Dexter Fowler and find Jose Martinez a home in the American League for some bullpen help.
And, you know, sign Bryce Harper.