The St. Louis Cardinals made a big splash at the Winter Meetings last month, signing catcher Willson Contreras to a five-year, $87.5 million contract with a club option for a sixth year.
St. Louis filled the hole left by the departure of Yadier Molina and also found somebody who could replicate the success of Albert Pujols in the middle of their lineup.
Still, the Cardinals have some holes to fill if they want to compete for a World Series title.
In the starting rotation, only Steven Matz is signed beyond 2023, so St. Louis could look to plug a hole there.
A fourth outfielder to fill the role Corey Dickerson had would also be a plus.
Here are two potential free agents the Cardinals could target.
1. Michael Wacha
If the Cardinals want a starting pitcher, they may have the perfect one waiting for them on the free agent market.
Wacha, a former Cardinal, bounced back in 2022 with the Boston Red Sox, going 11-2 with a 3.32 ERA in 23 starts.
Injuries remain a concern for the veteran right-hander, but he is the best remaining starter out on the market and is somebody who is within the Cardinals’ price range.
Certain fans also are wondering if a reunion could be in the cards.
2. David Peralta
Peralta would be an interesting fit.
Like Wacha, Peralta has connections with the Cardinals organization.
The 35-year-old was once a pitcher in the Cardinals pipeline.
He was released in 2009 after dealing with numerous injuries and became a hitter.
Peralta had a solid season with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Tampa Bay Rays in 2022, hitting .251 with 12 home runs and 59 RBI.
He could be the perfect fit if St. Louis wants a left-handed DH option.
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