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The St. Louis Cardinals are now able to turn their attention to offseason plans after extending their postseason absence to four consecutive years. Unlike the previous winter, this offseason is not expected to involve a flurry of trades involving veteran players, as that phase of the rebuild has largely been completed. Instead, the Cardinals may take a more active approach in free agency, though that does not necessarily mean they will chase high-profile names. Still, there are moves they can make to strengthen the team for 2027.
Below is a ranking of their free agency priorities from least to most pressing as the offseason gets underway.
Lowest Priority: Third Base
With Nolan Arenado no longer in the fold, the Cardinals could benefit from some assistance at third base. The team received limited production from Nolan Gorman, and while Thomas Saggese and Blaze Jordan displayed potential, they may not represent the long-term answers the organization seeks. However, it is crucial to remember that the Cardinals are still in a rebuilding phase. That does not preclude them from addressing third base, but they have internal options who could be ready by 2028, including Jesus Baez. As a result, relying on future talent may be more sensible than pursuing a short-term fix. If they look outside the organization, Luis Arraez and Alec Bohm could be possibilities.
Middle Priority: Starting Rotation
The Cardinals' starting rotation was largely effective in 2026. While not overpowering, it kept the team competitive and gave them a chance to win on a daily basis. Adding a veteran starter should be a consideration as the offseason begins. Last year, the team turned to Dustin May after trading Sonny Gray, and with May set to become a free agent again, he would be an ideal fit for their current approach. They could also explore Shane Bieber, but bringing in a pitcher looking to rebuild his value would benefit the rotation and provide a veteran presence for younger arms to learn from. May filled that role well before being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, who went on to win the World Series.
Highest Priority: Bullpen
The bullpen was the most significant weakness for St. Louis in 2026. Even Riley O'Brien, who led the National League in saves, faded down the stretch. A pitcher capable of closing games could be on their radar to alleviate some of the pressure on the right-hander. With JoJo Romero no longer with the team, the Cardinals will likely also need a left-handed reliever. Improving the bullpen would allow the team to take steps forward and potentially remain competitive for longer stretches than they did last season. It does not guarantee a playoff berth, but it could lead to better results in 2027.
Curt Bishop is a freelance sports writer who graduated from Maryville University of St. Louis with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and currently writes as a contributor for various platforms covering Major League Baseball. His work includes covering trade and free agency predictions, as well as rumors and news. For all business/marketing inquiries regarding St. Louis Cardinals On SI, please reach out to Scott Neville: [email protected]. Follow bishopcurtis5.