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3 Moves Cardinals Can Make at Winter Meetings to Keep Control of NL Central

By Steven Kubitza

The St. Louis Cardinals are looking to rebound in 2020 after a rough postseason exit.
The St. Louis Cardinals are looking to rebound in 2020 after a rough postseason exit. / Patrick Smith/Getty Images

The St. Louis Cardinals reached the NLCS in 2019 after an exciting NLDS win over the Atlanta Braves. Then came four straight losses to the Washington Nationals, and the dream was swiftly snuffed out. The team is looking to bounce back in 2020, and a few big moves at the MLB Winter Meetings can jumpstart that process (and keep them well ahead of the Cubs and Brewers).

3. Sign Hyun-Jin Ryu

The Cardinals can target a top pitcher without derailing the payroll.
The Cardinals can target a top pitcher without derailing the payroll. / Will Newton/Getty Images

Ryu stands out as a top pitching option after those who are going to command $250 million or more deals. He posted a 2.32 ERA in 2019 after a 1.97 mark in 2018. He is a veteran who can slot in as the second or third starter, but pitch like an ace. Being familiar with the National League only makes this more of a no-brainer.

2. Officially Move on From Marcell Ozuna

Marcell Ozuna was just above average during his time with the Cardinals.
Marcell Ozuna was just above average during his time with the Cardinals. / Rob Carr/Getty Images

Ozuna spent two years in St. Louis and combined for a WAR of 5.1 after a 6.1 mark in 2017 alone. He declined the qualifying offer, and the team can state their intentions to not pursue him. The outfield is already crowded, and the extra money can be spent on a top pitcher or a big-name power bat.

1. Consider Stephen Strasburg

Strasburg would make the Cardinals staff dominant from day one.
Strasburg would make the Cardinals staff dominant from day one. / Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

It never hurts to target the best. Stephen Strasburg is going to command a major deal, and the Cardinals can offer him one, with the intention of trading him after a few seasons if he'd like to head elsewhere. Jack Flaherty and Strasburg would combine for a dominant top of the rotation and give the team a great shot to win another World Series. Spending can be slashed a bit after that goal is achieved again.