One of the big questions looming for St. Louis Cardinals fans is how the team will handle this year’s trade deadline—especially if they remain within reach of a playoff spot.
With the 2025 season now over a month in, this topic is gaining traction. Despite their rocky start, many fans—at least those active on social media—are already calling for the team to become sellers at the deadline. However, some still hope the front office will choose to improve the roster for a potential playoff push.
Katie Woo of The Athletic recently suggested the Cardinals could become buyers if they’re still in contention by July. But not everyone shares that view. Another insider paints a different picture, casting doubt on the idea that St. Louis will be adding talent this summer.
According to a report from Jeff Jones at the Belleville News-Democrat, the Cardinals are expected to stick with their plan and sell at the 2025 MLB trade deadline. While the NL Central remains unimpressive and the Cardinals are still within striking distance despite a losing record, Jones argues that won’t be enough to change the team’s direction. The Cubs are seen as the division’s top team following an active offseason, but they haven’t pulled away. The Reds and Brewers are also in the mix, though not decisively.
So, the question remains: Will the Cardinals push for the playoffs in what could be John Mozeliak’s final season? Jones thinks not. He writes:
“To be sure, the deadline will still matter. Ryan Helsley’s imminent trade is a done deal. Fedde and Phil Maton, the team’s other major league free agent addition this winter, are both on track for the same outcome.
In much the same manner that the previous offseason’s movements revealed the front office’s cards for the 2024 club, the same will be true in 2025. This team was built to sell by the deadline, and they will.”
This could actually come as reassuring news to some fans. Jones emphasized that any surprise playoff run would likely be due to the emergence of young players—not because the Cardinals held onto veterans or made additions. And realistically, the best way forward is to trade players like Helsley, Maton, Steven Matz, and Erick Fedde while they still have value. Expect them to explore trading Nolan Arenado again as well.
Of course, many fans may find it hard to accept the idea of selling in a season where the team is still technically in the race—especially from a club like the Cardinals, who traditionally aim to win. But this front office seems focused on the future and should fully commit to it if they want to maximize their next competitive window. Could they sneak into the playoffs and make a surprising run? Sure. But the odds are slim, and a full commitment to rebuilding now could significantly improve their chances in the seasons ahead.
Come July, expect the Cardinals to be sellers. If that’s frustrating, that’s understandable—but in the long run, it might be exactly what the team needs. And who knows? Maybe the young core will rise to the occasion and surprise us anyway.