Could Cardinals Actually Trade Star Paul Goldschmidt? St. Louis Insider Gives Update

Would it make sense for the Cardinals to deal one of their brightest stars?

Could one of the St. Louis Cardinals' brightest starts potentially be on the move?

St. Louis is in last place in the National League Central at 34-48 and many have wondered what the club will do ahead of the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline. The club was rumored to be a buyer at the deadline early on this season, but they have never truly gotten their footing and now many have wondered if they will be sellers. 

Cardinals star first baseman Paul Goldschmidt has found his name in trade rumors of late, but will he actually be dealt? At this point, it reportedly sounds like the 2022 National League Most Valuable Player won't be going anywhere, according to The Athletic's Katie Woo.

"The concept has been floated around plenty: Goldschmidt, last year's National League MVP, a respected leader throughout the sport and a likely Hall of Famer, could be a potential trade candidate this summer. In theory, the idea makes sense. Goldschmidt's final year of his five-year, $130 million contract is next season. He will turn 36 this summer. The haul for Goldschmidt would be massive. The Cardinals could jump-start whatever degree of restructuring they feel necessary.

"The reality? Not happening, and that's even without taking into consideration Goldschmidt's no-trade clause. As (John Mozeliak) stated, the Cardinals are avoiding a rebuild. They aim to contend next season. If that's the organization's goal, the last thing it needs is young, unproven talent. The Cardinals need experienced, established names to complement the young talent already rostered."

Goldschmidt unsurprisingly has been one of if not the Cardinal's best players this season. The 35-year-old is leading the club with 2.8 wins above replacement and is slashing .289/.379/.498 to go along with 15 home runs and 46 RBIs in 80 games played. If the Cardinals were to deal Goldschmidt, it would be a clear sign that the club was turning its focus to the 2024 season. St. Louis likely would command a massive haul for Goldschmidt, but may not be a better club next year.

At this point, there's no way for sure to know what will happen, but it sounds like Goldschmidt likely will remain with the club at least until the end of the 2023 season.

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