Breaking: Cardinals next big trade before deadline revealed, “Playoff Push”

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline nears, the St. Louis Cardinals have emerged as unexpected buyers with genuine playoff hopes. Following a rocky offseason and sluggish beginning to the season, the team has rebounded into the National League Wild Card picture, thanks to a mix of seasoned veterans and an energized youth movement that has revitalized the clubhouse.

With ownership and the front office now unified in their goal to contend, the Cardinals are positioned to be among the most active teams at this year’s deadline.

Cardinals’ Playoff Push

The 2025 season began with uncertainty for the St. Louis Cardinals, following two disappointing campaigns and a front office message centered around a “reset” — prioritizing player development and payroll flexibility.

But early success and a stunning nine-game winning streak in June reshaped expectations. Now just one game out of the final Wild Card spot, the Cardinals’ playoff odds have steadily improved since Opening Day.

 

 

This turnaround has caught the attention of club president John Mozeliak, who recently indicated that if the team stays in contention, ownership is willing to back deadline moves to strengthen the roster for a playoff push. With a fanbase used to competitive baseball, the renewed energy is palpable — and the front office is aware of the importance of capitalizing on this momentum.

Still, the team has areas in need of improvement. The rotation, while solid, lacks a dependable No. 2 starter behind Sonny Gray. Injuries and inconsistent performances at the back end highlight the need for a proven, postseason-caliber arm. The bullpen could also use a boost, particularly with Ryan Helsley and Phil Maton both approaching free agency.

While the offense has shown flashes, its inconsistency has kept the spotlight on pitching as the top priority. Thanks to a strong farm system, the Cardinals are in a position to make meaningful upgrades without sacrificing their long-term outlook.

The Predicted Trade

After evaluating the market and the needs of playoff contenders, the most likely major trade ahead of the deadline involves the Cardinals landing starting pitcher Merrill Kelly from the Arizona Diamondbacks.

 

 

Kelly, a reliable postseason pitcher with a cost-effective contract through 2026, fits the mold of the starter St. Louis is seeking. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks—teetering on the fringe of contention and dealing with roster constraints—are reportedly willing to deal Kelly in exchange for a strong prospect return.

Projected Trade Proposal

Paraphrased:

Cardinals acquire:

• Merrill Kelly

Diamondbacks acquire:

• Quinn Mathews
• Thomas Saggese
• Chase Davis

This trade marks a bold yet strategic move for St. Louis. Headlining the return is Mathews, the Cardinals’ No. 2 prospect and the reigning Minor League Pitching Prospect of the Year.

 

 

Saggese, a versatile infielder known for his contact ability, and Davis, a powerful outfielder with high upside, complete the package. For Arizona, the deal accelerates their roster retooling with three prospects who are close to MLB-ready, while St. Louis secures a reliable frontline starter to bolster their postseason rotation.

Why This Trade Makes Sense

For the Cardinals, bringing in Kelly is about building on their current momentum and fixing their biggest weakness. Kelly’s playoff experience, reliability, and ability to pitch deep into games offer immediate stability.

He would slot in behind Gray, creating a strong one-two rotation that could be crucial in a postseason series. With the offense picking up and the bullpen performing steadily, strengthening the rotation might be the final key to their success.

Trading top prospects like Mathews and Saggese highlights the front office’s confidence that this team can compete right now. The Cardinals still have a strong farm system, with promising players such as Tink Hence, JJ Wetherholt, and Jimmy Crooks coming up, so they’re not sacrificing the future for the present.

 

 

For the Diamondbacks, this deal is about getting maximum value for a player who may not fit their long-term strategy. By acquiring three high-upside prospects, Arizona is positioning itself for a quicker rebuild and gaining payroll flexibility for future moves.

This trade would send ripples through the National League. Known for their cautious approach, the Cardinals would be making a bold move that says they’re ready to win now. For a fanbase eager for postseason success, adding Kelly would show a strong commitment to contending and likely boost excitement and attendance at Busch Stadium.

As the 2025 trade deadline approaches, the Cardinals stand out as one of the most intriguing teams to watch. By going after Merrill Kelly and using their depth in prospects, St. Louis is making a strategic gamble that could pay dividends come October. If the trade goes through, it could not only define their deadline but also set the stage for a deep playoff run and a new chapter of success in St. Louis.