Cardinals Preseason Capsule: Slashing Cash, St. Louis Embraces Rebuild

As the St. Louis Cardinals enter the 2025 MLB season, they are shedding their typical contender status and embracing a rebuilding phase aimed at long-term success. Coming off a disappointing 2024 season, where the Cardinals finished below .500 for the first time in nearly a decade, the team has made significant changes both on and off the field. The most noticeable shift is their financial strategy, as they slashed payroll and moved on from several veteran players.

Gone are key contributors from the past, including long-time stalwarts like Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado, who were traded to contenders in an effort to stockpile young talent and replenish the minor league system. The trades have freed up considerable financial flexibility, giving the front office more room to maneuver in the future. With the team focusing on youth development and building for the next era, the Cardinals’ front office is hoping that the rebuild will be swift and efficient.

While fans are understandably disappointed by the lack of star power in the 2025 squad, the front office is focused on ensuring that the team can be competitive again within a few seasons. This preseason, the Cardinals have placed a heavy emphasis on giving young players significant opportunities, with highly touted prospects such as Jordan Walker, Masyn Winn, and Tommy Edman expected to take on larger roles. Walker, a powerful outfielder, is one of the top prospects in the game and is seen as a key piece of the future. The club is banking on the development of its younger core, alongside the steady leadership of manager Oliver Marmol, to begin the rebuilding process.

The pitching staff, too, will be a work in progress. With ace Jack Flaherty traded away last season, the rotation now features a mix of unproven arms and veterans looking for a fresh start. One notable player to watch will be rising star Matthew Liberatore, who is expected to take on a bigger role in the rotation. The bullpen, while still young, will be leaned on heavily to keep games close while the offense finds its rhythm.

Despite the rebuilding process, Cardinals fans can take solace in knowing the franchise has a rich history of bouncing back from downturns. The team’s ability to develop talent from within and make shrewd moves in free agency and trade markets could help the team return to contention quicker than anticipated.

For now, the 2025 Cardinals are a team in transition, slashing cash and embracing a full rebuild with the aim of returning to championship contention in the near future. While it may take time for the pieces to fall into place, hope springs eternal in St. Louis, where the next wave of talent is ready to make its mark.