Cardinals Listed As Best Fit For Their Former Prospect At Trade Deadline
The St. Louis Cardinals entered the season with low expectations and an evaluation mindset. Now, in July, they are on the cusp of taking over a playoff spot in the National League, despite Erick Fedde and Miles Mikolas being among the league's worst starting pitchers.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 25: Zac Gallen #23 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches during the fourth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field on June 25, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 25: Zac Gallen #23 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches during the fourth inning against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field on June 25, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
Photo byAt the same time, the Arizona Diamondbacks find themselves losing steam as the All-Star break approaches. If the Diamondbacks keep on this track, they could be selling pieces to build for next year at the end of the month. Tim Britton, Aaron Gleeman, and Chad Jennings of The Athletic rank D-Backs right-hander Zac Gallen as the No. 10 trade candidate on their big board and think St. Louis could be a good fit.
Gallen has been electric during his career, but has had a rocky season to this point with the Diamondbacks. The starter has received Cy Young votes in three seasons, including a third-place finish in 2023, when he was also elected to the All-Star Game.
Gallen has a 5.15 ERA this season, a career high, along with career highs in FIP and WHIP. While Gallen's pitched below his standards so far, the Cardinals would have to be betting on a rebound in the second half from a 29-year-old pitcher who has a track record of success.
Gallen is a free agent at the end of this season, and if the Cardinals choose to make a move for him, it would not affect their long-term plan with the starting pitching waiting in the farm system.
Mikolas and Fedde are both free agents at the end of the season, and if the Cardinals are serious about making the playoffs and having a chance, a roll of the dice on Gallen could be the best call.
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