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The St. Louis Cardinals are not just a player or two away from competing in the National League, but they are clearly moving in the right direction. After a 2026 campaign in which they fielded the second-youngest roster in baseball (average age 26.2), the Cardinals are expected to remain youthful in 2027. The organization has committed to its young core, trading away most veterans to create opportunities for prospects. For St. Louis to take the next step, the development of young talents like Jordan Walker and JJ Wetherholt, the arrival of top prospects such as Rainiel Rodriguez and Liam Doyle, and the addition of key outside pieces will be crucial.
Sign Alec Bohm
Third base is the only real question mark in the Cardinals' lineup, as the rest of the roster is in good shape. Alec Bohm, a one-time All-Star who will turn 30, could be the perfect short-term solution if the team is not convinced that Thomas Saggese or Blaze Jordan is the answer. In 2026, Bohm hit 15 home runs and drove in 88 runs over 155 games. From August 1 through September 27, he slashed .305/.383/.424 with an .807 OPS, two homers, and 29 RBIs in 50 games. Bohm would not only improve the Cardinals but also could become a valuable trade chip at the deadline. With Jesus Baez potentially ready in 2027, Bohm would serve as an ideal stopgap.
Sign Shane Bieber
Shane Bieber stands out as arguably the best buy-low rotation option on the open market. At 31, he is a former Cy Young Award winner looking to rebuild his value for a lucrative multi-year deal. The Cardinals have a track record of successfully handling starting pitchers, and Bieber would provide the veteran presence they need. He could also become a trade asset if the team falls out of contention. If St. Louis adds both Bohm and Bieber, they could very well be a playoff team.
Sign Jonathan Loaisiga
The bullpen was the Cardinals' biggest weakness in 2026, and Jonathan Loaisiga would be a significant upgrade. Loaisiga posted a 2.42 ERA in 67 appearances last season and has a 3.30 ERA over nine major league seasons. Adding his production, along with Bohm and Bieber, would make the Cardinals at least a wild-card contender.
Key Analysis
These three moves address the Cardinals' most pressing needs without compromising their long-term vision. Bohm fills a hole at third base, Bieber adds a veteran arm to the rotation, and Loaisiga strengthens the bullpen. Each player comes with upside and could be flipped for prospects if the season doesn't go as planned. For a team committed to youth, supplementing the core with smart, short-term investments could accelerate the timeline and bring postseason baseball back to St. Louis.