Three players Cardinals should move at trade deadline

Phil Maton, relief pitcher

2025 MLB stats: 1-2, two saves, 1.76 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 41 strikeouts over 30.2 innings pitched

Signed during spring training to a one-year, $2M deal, Maton has been one of the most underrated additions of the offseason.

The 32-year-old right-hander has been a stabilizing force in the Cardinals' bullpen and has given manager Oli Marmol a veteran presence he can rely on in high-leverage situations.

Over his last 15 appearances, Maton has not allowed an earned run with a 0.96 WHIP and 23 strikeouts in 15.2 innings pitched.

Contenders are always looking for bullpen help at the deadline and with the season Maton is having, he should fetch the Cardinals a solid return. 

Steven Matz, relief pitcher

2025 MLB stats: 4-2, 3.50 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 40 strikeouts over 43.2 innings pitched

Signed to a four-year, $44M deal in 2021, Matz's tenure in St. Louis has been shaky, partly thanks to injury troubles. After flip-flopping between the rotation and the bullpen, Matz has been much more effective in his new role as a high-leverage arm out of the bullpen.

After a hot start in 2025, Matz has struggled over his last seven games. He has posted a 7.84 ERA over 10.1 innings pitched, including seven earned runs over his last 4.2 innings.

A change of scenery could benefit both parties, as Matz will get a chance to impress while the Cardinals can open up a spot for one of their promising young pitchers. 

Erick Fedde, starting pitcher

2025 MLB stats: 3-6, 3.54 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 55 strikeouts over 84 innings pitched

Acquired at the trade deadline last season, Fedde has been a reliable arm for the Cardinals and has shown improvement as the 2025 season has progressed.

With not many starting pitching options available as the deadline approaches, Fedde should be atop the Cardinals' sell list. 

Set to become a free agent this offseason, trading him would open a spot in the rotation for someone like Michael McGreevy (No. 9 Cardinals prospect) and also allow the Cardinals to replenish the depth in their minor league system at the same time.