The St. Louis Cardinals are widely viewed as a team entering a new phase this offseason, with clear signs that a roster reset is underway. After several seasons of inconsistent results and falling short of expectations, the organization has begun taking concrete steps toward reshaping its future.
That process started with two major trades, as St. Louis sent veteran pitcher Sonny Gray and longtime contributor Willson Contreras to the Boston Red Sox. In return, the Cardinals received a strong package of prospects, signaling a greater focus on youth and long-term development. However, league observers believe the front office may not be finished making moves before the new season begins.
According to Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter, the Cardinals could look to free agency to stabilize their pitching staff by pursuing experienced starter Zac Gallen. The right-hander is no stranger to the organization, having originally been drafted by St. Louis in 2016 before building his MLB reputation with the Arizona Diamondbacks over the past seven seasons.
Reuter notes that with Gray traded and Miles Mikolas departing via free agency, the Cardinals’ rotation is suddenly very young and relatively unproven. Although the club added Dustin May on a one-year, $12.5 million contract, the staff still lacks a clear veteran leader. That makes St. Louis an intriguing potential destination for Gallen, particularly if he prefers a short-term contract with a high annual salary to re-establish his value and re-enter the market in the near future.
In such a scenario, Gallen could immediately step in as the rotation’s top arm, providing stability, leadership, and reliable innings early in the season. At the same time, his presence would give the Cardinals flexibility. If the team struggles to contend, Gallen could become a valuable trade asset at the deadline, helping accelerate the rebuild with additional young talent.
There is also a possibility that the Cardinals’ leadership believes the turnaround could happen faster than expected. If so, a longer commitment—perhaps a three- or four-year deal—might make sense, allowing Gallen to anchor the rotation during a transitional period.
Despite a less dominant performance last season, Gallen is still viewed as a high-upside option. When healthy and in form, he has shown ace-level ability, making him an attractive “buy-low” candidate this winter. A return to St. Louis could offer the right environment for him to regain consistency and confidence.
Whether as a short-term solution or a longer-term piece, adding Gallen would address a major need for the Cardinals. His experience, durability, and trade value make him a logical target as the franchise balances rebuilding goals with the desire to remain competitive.
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