MLB Insider Reportedly Links Cardinals Slugger To Yankees In Potential Trade Deadline Deal

Should the Cardinals consider trading one of their young outfielders?

The St. Louis Cardinals likely will be extremely busy ahead of the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline.

St. Louis currently is 27-42 and in last place in the National League Central. The Cardinals realistically could still make a run in the NL Central because the division as a whole is having a down year, but they will need to turn things around quickly. St. Louis currently is eight games behind the NL Central-leading Pittsburgh Pirates. 

One player who has been in trade rumors all season and could potentially be on the move is outfielder Tyler O'Neill. One team that reportedly has come up as a potential destination for the two-time Gold Glove winner is the New York Yankees, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman. 

"The Cardinals declared a few weeks ago they wouldn’t become a seller, but their slide is so shocking it can’t be ruled out now," Heyman said. "Though, as one rival said, 'The Cardinals never sell.'

"If they do sell, free agents to be Jordan Montgomery and Jack Flaherty should go. With their outfield glut, Tyler O’Neill is another logical trade candidate. He’d fit the Yankees, who could use a left fielder."

O'Neill currently is on the injured list but could begin a rehab assignment shortly. A move certainly would make sense as the Cardinals have a surplus of big-league outfielders. O'Neill could give the Cardinals a solid return in a package and especially after the early drama this season, a fresh start could make sense. 

The 27-year-old has a bright future. Maybe the Cardinals could hold onto him, but also a move for a starting pitcher may help the club out more in the long run. The 2023 MLB Trade Deadline is quickly approaching and the Cardinals certainly will look different after August 1. 

More MLB: MLB Insider Hints Cardinals Reportedly Could Trade Rising Star To Shakeup Roster