Cardinals Next Steps After Cutting Ties With Willson Contreras

So, what's next for the Cardinals? Let's examine.

Next Steps For Cardinals

Trade, Trade, Trade

The Cardinals have gotten two deals done and should have more up their sleeve. As of right now, the three who have been talked about the most and remain in St. Louis are Brendan Donovan, Nolan Arenado, and JoJo Romero. Donovan likely will bring back the best package with Romero next in line. Arenado still is owed a good chunk of change over the next two seasons and is a candidate to have money included in a deal involving him, like Gray and Contreras. For Donovan, The Athletic's Katie Woo reported that the San Francisco Giants and Seattle Mariners are viewed as the "front-runners" for his services. For St. Louis, the best way forward is to continue to stockpile young talent and see if it can hit on anyone.

First base

This is the type of move that helps the Cardinals in the long term and doesn't hurt the team too much right now. Contreras is a great player. But with him out the door, that frees up first base and potentially a lot of playing time for Alec Burleson. He played all over the field in 2025. This deal opens up first base and consistency for the slugger. Also, with Burleson getting time at first base, that should open up designated hitter for Iván Herrera, Nolan Gorman, or whoever the team sees in the role.

The Return

Getting another controllable, young starter in Hunter Dobbins was a good call for a team trying to figure out its pitching. He impressed as a rookie and now can be a long-term option for the rotation. Plus, getting two prospects was positive as well. Having to pay down Contreras' contract was a bit steep, but the overall return was solid.