The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly considering trading right-handed pitcher Erick Fedde. According to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, rival teams believe the Cardinals are looking to reduce payroll and prioritize the development of their younger pitchers. After a solid performance last season and being under a team-friendly contract, Fedde could be moved before the season starts.
Fedde was acquired from the Chicago White Sox in a trade that sent Tommy Edman and Michael Kopech to the Los Angeles Dodgers. In 55 2/3 innings with St. Louis, he posted a 3.72 ERA, but his future with the team is uncertain as they consider promoting younger pitchers like Michael McGreevy and André Pallante. Top prospects such as Tink Hence, Quinn Mathews, and Tekoah Roby could also see time in the majors if the Cardinals shift toward a younger rotation.
St. Louis has made financial adjustments this offseason, letting Paul Goldschmidt and Andrew Kittredge walk while exploring trade options for Nolan Arenado. With Fedde owed $7.5 million for one more year, the team may look to move him and reallocate funds for future seasons.
Fedde’s affordability and solid performance make him an attractive trade option. The New York Mets, for example, recently lost Frankie Montas to a high-grade lat strain, though they claim they are not seeking another pitcher. However, as spring training progresses and injuries arise, Fedde could become a valuable trade target. If not dealt before the season, he could be moved at the trade deadline as contenders seek pitching depth for a playoff push.
