Since signing Willson Contreras to replace Yadier Molina, the St. Louis Cardinals have stood pat.
“Stand pat” is a phrase that Cardinals fans are getting tired of hearing, as it has been used at trade deadlines and in offseasons when the team has done little or nothing at all.
Unfortunately, fans aren’t going to feel any better about things anytime soon.
Late on Sunday, Cardinals insider Brian Walton posted a column detailing President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak’s recent comments on KMOX radio.
In short, Walton gave Cards fans a very frustrating update, telling them not to hold their breath for a big splash in free agency.
While this does not mean the Cardinals are done adding pieces, it’s understandable why this would frustrate fans.
At the onset of the offseason, Mozeliak had commented that he planned on increasing payroll.
However, there hasn’t been that much of an increase.
While signing Contreras improves the team, they still are in need of a left-handed bat and a starting pitcher, or at least somebody capable of starting.
But in terms of getting a starting pitcher, that will more likely come via trade, which most likely takes them out of the running for Johnny Cueto or former Cardinal Michael Wacha, the best two starters still unsigned.
There are still a few viable left-handed bats on the market, such as David Peralta, Ben Gamel, Tyler Naquin, and Corey Dickerson.
The Cardinals next free-agent signing will most likely be for the lefty bat they’re seeking.
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