The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly weighing their options regarding starting pitcher Erick Fedde, whose recent performance has raised questions about his future with the team. Fedde, who has shown flashes of potential, has struggled in recent outings, surrendering 14 earned runs over his last two starts. This downturn has prompted speculation that the Cardinals may look to trade the veteran pitcher.
According to FanSided’s Josh Jacobs, Fedde is likely to be used as a trade chip this season. “One name that feels likely to be on the move is starting pitcher Erick Fedde,” Jacobs noted. “Fedde, whom the Cardinals acquired in the Tommy Edman trade last deadline, is in the final year of his contract and was making just $7.5 million this year, so he is making relatively little money for someone who profiles as a middle or back-end of the rotation veteran starter.”
Cardinals’ Pitching Depth and Fedde’s Future
The Cardinals’ decision to potentially move Fedde is influenced by their current pitching depth. With Michael McGreevy ready to step into a rotation spot, and Steven Matz providing veteran depth as a hybrid reliever and spot starter, the team has options. Moreover, top pitching prospects Quinn Mathews and Tekoah Roby have been performing well in Triple-A, making Fedde expendable.
Trading Fedde could benefit the Cardinals in multiple ways. It would not only allow them to acquire a prospect package but also clear a path for emerging talents like Roby, McGreevy, or Mathews to join the major league roster. Fedde’s tenure with the Cardinals has been serviceable, but his recent struggles have turned him into a potential liability.
Fedde’s Performance and Contract Situation
Fedde’s performance has been inconsistent since joining the Cardinals. While he has had moments of brilliance, his recent outings have been concerning. The Cardinals acquired Fedde in a trade involving Tommy Edman last season, and he is currently in the final year of his contract, earning $7.5 million. This relatively modest salary for a veteran starter makes him an attractive trade target for teams seeking rotation depth.
The Cardinals’ willingness to part with Fedde reflects their confidence in their young pitchers and the need to maximize their roster’s potential. By moving Fedde, the team can focus on developing their promising prospects and maintaining their competitive edge.
Implications for the Cardinals’ Season
The potential trade of Fedde comes at a crucial time for the Cardinals, who are aiming to make a strong push in the 2025 season. The team has been building a roster capable of competing at the highest level, and their pitching depth is a key component of this strategy. By trading Fedde, the Cardinals can bolster their farm system and ensure they have the necessary talent to sustain their success.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Cardinals will need to carefully evaluate their options. The decision to move Fedde will depend on the offers they receive and their assessment of the team’s long-term needs. However, with a wealth of pitching talent waiting in the wings, the Cardinals are well-positioned to make a strategic move that could benefit the organization for years to come.
In conclusion, Erick Fedde’s future with the St. Louis Cardinals remains uncertain as the team considers its options. With a strong roster of young pitchers and the potential to acquire valuable prospects, the Cardinals are poised to make a decision that could shape their trajectory in the coming seasons.