JUST IN: Cardinals May Deeply Regret Letting 3 important players to go

Cardinals May Deeply Regret Letting This Former Leader Go

Leadership could become a glaring void for the St. Louis Cardinals.
By Mark Powell | 17 hours ago

The St. Louis Cardinals have been one of MLB’s surprising success stories so far this season, posting a 33-25 record despite entering the year in what many viewed as a transitional phase. They’re within striking distance of the NL Central-leading Cubs, and a postseason push isn’t out of the question—even with Nolan Arenado still on the trade block and Paul Goldschmidt no longer around.

The Cardinals opted not to bring Goldschmidt back in free agency this past offseason. Though his final season in St. Louis was underwhelming (.245 average, 1.3 WAR), the veteran first baseman has experienced a resurgence with the Yankees. Thanks to new surroundings and perhaps a fresh perspective, Goldy is hitting .338 with an .889 OPS, already surpassing his 2024 WAR just two months into the season.

What the Cardinals May Miss Most: Goldschmidt’s Leadership

While the Cardinals can survive without Goldschmidt’s bat, his presence in the clubhouse may prove harder to replace. After a rough loss to the Dodgers, Goldschmidt demonstrated his value as a leader, delivering a measured and confident message about the Yankees staying focused and not losing faith.

Back in spring training, the Cardinals acknowledged the challenge of filling Goldschmidt’s leadership role. Nolan Arenado and Brendan Donovan were among those suggested as potential successors.

“That’s an easy one: Donnie,” said Alec Burleson. “He’s got that leadership quality. He’s a family man, and he always helps the younger guys. He could definitely take on that role.”

But there’s a catch. Both Arenado and Donovan could be on the move if the Cardinals’ playoff push falters. Arenado already declined a trade to Houston this past offseason, and Donovan—though harder to part with—could become expendable due to prospects like JJ Wetherholt rising through the system.

Youth development is clearly the priority for St. Louis right now, but surrounding those younger players with experienced leaders remains crucial. If the Cardinals overlook that balance, the absence of a clubhouse cornerstone like Goldschmidt could be felt more than ever.