What will happen with the St. Louis Cardinals' outfield logjam this offseason?
Much has been made about St. Louis' outfield depth this season. The Cardinals have a surplus of outfield talent and not enough playing time to go around so it's very likely at least one outfielder is traded away this offseason. One outfielder who will be a trade candidate is Dylan Carlson, according to MLB Trade Rumors' Nick Deeds.
"Carlson, who celebrated his 25th birthday earlier this week, is coming off a major down season in 2023 where he slashed just .219/.318/.333 in 255 plate appearances," Deeds said. "Despite those brutal numbers, Carlson reportedly received interest from multiple clubs at the trade deadline, including the (New York Yankees) and (Baltimore Orioles). As a young switch-hitter who was once a consensus top-20 prospect in the sport and is under team control through the 2026 campaign, Carlson could once again be a sought-after change of scenery candidate.
"That being said, his value is likely at an all-time low after undergoing ankle surgery in September (though he’s expected to be ready for Spring Training) and posting the worst offensive season of his career in 2023. Given Carlson’s remaining team control, it’s possible the Cardinals would be better off holding onto their former top prospect in hopes he can rebound in 2024 and improve his stock.
If the Cardinals were to trade Carlson, it certainly would make sense, St. Louis has Jordan Walker, Lars Nootbaar, Tyler O'Neill, and Alec Burleson all on the roster and Tommy Edman also saw time in the outfield. Carlson's trade value has taken a hit, but he still could bring in a solid return -- preferably young pitching.
The Cardinals need to make changes and it sounds like Carlson may be one of the first people to go.
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