Blockbuster Trade: Cardinals Ship Two All-Stars to the Dodgers

Blockbuster Trade: Cardinals Ship Two All-Stars to the Dodgers

The St. Louis Cardinals are considering a rebuild this winter, which could involve trading two of their top players, Ryan Helsley and Nolan Arenado. Both stars would command a major prospect package in return, though assessing their value during the offseason is tricky. FanSided’s Curt Bishop has proposed a trade scenario that would send both Cardinals All-Stars to the Los Angeles Dodgers. This move could send shockwaves through the league, making it a nightmare scenario for competitors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In this proposed trade, the Los Angeles Dodgers would acquire right-handed pitcher Ryan Helsley and third baseman Nolan Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals, while the Cardinals would receive a package of prospects: catcher/outfielder Daulton Rushing (No. 1 prospect), right-handed pitcher Nick Frasso (No. 12), and infielder/outfielder Austin Gauthier (No. 24).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FanSided’s Curt Bishop suggests that for the trade to work, the Cardinals would need to absorb part of Arenado’s remaining contract, which includes three years and $74 million. Bishop argues that while Arenado may not be the same player he once was, packaging him with Helsley could still bring the Cardinals a solid return in prospects who are close to Major League readiness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

However, this trade scenario is highly unlikely. While the Cardinals might be willing to eat some of Arenado’s salary, they would not accept this prospect package. Rushing is a top prospect, but the overall deal lacks sufficient high-end talent. For the Cardinals to part with both All-Stars in one move, they would likely require additional top-tier prospects, with at least two or three of them being ranked among the top 10.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There’s also the possibility that St. Louis might hesitate to deal both All-Stars to the Dodgers, as it could make Los Angeles too strong of a contender. While baseball is a business, the Cardinals may prefer not to strengthen a division rival or a team they could face in the postseason. Balancing rebuilding efforts with maintaining competitive balance across the league is always a consideration in trade discussions.