The St. Louis Cardinals enter the 2025–26 offseason with one clear priority: adding starting pitching. After another underwhelming year, the club acknowledges that their rotation must be upgraded for them to compete in 2026.
With veteran Sonny Gray likely on the trade block, the Cardinals are preparing for a different direction this winter. Even though they may not be fully rebuilding, they have limited rotation depth and will need to add reliable arms to stay competitive.
Insider Derrick Goold recently listed five starting pitchers the Cardinals could target this offseason and added some honorable mentions, including a former Los Angeles Dodgers World Series champion.
One prominent name mentioned was Dustin May, a former Dodger who is viewed as a potential bounce-back candidate. At only 28 years old and returning from injury, May possesses strong upside, making him an intriguing fit for St. Louis if the team is willing to take a chance on his health and potential.
While Goold and other insiders also discussed big-name potential targets like former Cy Young winners, they cautioned that the Cardinals’ current competitive state may limit their ability to land elite free agents. Financial flexibility and long-term planning are expected to shape the scope of their moves.
The Cardinals’ internal options include young pitchers such as Michael McGreevy and Matthew Liberatore, though these arms are considered complementary rather than foundational pieces for the rotation. The front office recognizes that external additions will be necessary to form a competitive staff.
Organizational leadership, including new president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom, has identified starting pitching depth — especially in the rotation — as a key offseason focus. Bloom and his staff are expected to take an active approach, seeking both short-term upgrades and controllable long-term options.
In summary, the Cardinals are entering the offseason with a clear understanding of their shortcomings. Their success in 2026 will depend heavily on how effectively they address the rotation — whether through trades, free agency, or internal development. After consecutive disappointing seasons, this winter represents a defining moment for St. Louis’ front office.
