The St. Louis Cardinals are preparing to reshape their roster during what will be John Mozeliak’s final year as president of baseball operations. The team is expected to trade veterans like Ryan Helsley and Sonny Gray, focusing on developing talent from their farm system. However, Josh Jacobs of Redbird Rants suggests that the Cardinals might take a different approach by targeting young stars already established in the league.
One of Jacobs’ proposals involves acquiring Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. in exchange for first baseman Alec Burleson and right-hander Gordon Graceffo. Jacobs argues that center field is a glaring need for the Cardinals, particularly with a right-handed bat like Robert’s. He suggests that the White Sox, in a rebuilding phase, might consider a trade centered around Burleson, a controllable young hitter, and Graceffo as pieces for their future core.
However, the proposal is highly unlikely. Last season, the White Sox sought a “Juan Soto-esque” return for Robert, indicating they value him far more than what St. Louis is offering. Robert, who has club options through 2027, would command a far more substantial package.
To realistically acquire a player of Robert’s caliber, the Cardinals would likely need to include one or more of their top prospects, such as shortstop JJ Wetherholt (No. 18 overall MLB prospect), pitcher Tink Hence (No. 61), or left-hander Quinn Mathews (No. 77), along with Burleson and Graceffo. While Jacobs’ trade idea might appeal to Cardinals fans, it falls short of the value Robert would demand in any realistic deal.
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