MLB Trade Rumors: 1 Cardinals Player Almost Guaranteed To Be Moved By August

Dylan Carlson, once heralded as a cornerstone of the St. Louis Cardinals' future, now seems almost guaranteed to be moved by this summer's trade deadline, as noted by Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. 

Despite a promising rookie season in 2021, where he finished third in the National League Rookie of the Year voting, Carlson's performance has steadily declined. 

This year has been particularly challenging for the 25-year-old outfielder, with a left shoulder sprain sustained during spring training significantly setting him back. 

Dylan Carlson back? 👀🔥 pic.twitter.com/H9x0m5hpxw

— Cardinals Talk (@theredbird_way) June 8, 2024

In his first 24 games, Carlson has struggled immensely, managing just a .175 batting average with no home runs and just 3 RBIs and posting a mere .487 OPS. 

His defensive metrics have also regressed, with a -1 Outs Above Average (OAA), diminishing his value as a versatile outfielder, as noted by Feinsand.

The Cardinals' crowded outfield situation has further complicated Carlson's standing with the team. 

With players like Brendan Donovan, Michael Siani, Lars Nootbaar, and Alec Burleson ahead of him on the depth chart, and the organization holding high hopes for top prospect Jordan Walker's return, Carlson's path to consistent playing time in St. Louis is obstructed.

Getting a chance to play for a third game in a row, RF Dylan Carlson rewards the #STLCards with this great swing from the right side of the plate that resulted in a double into the left field corner. Carlson has four hits in his past three games. pic.twitter.com/u0dkOewyRq

— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) June 9, 2024

His struggles this season, combined with the emergence of other talents, make him a prime candidate for a change of scenery. Given his past promise and the Cardinals’ current needs, trading Carlson could benefit both parties.

Earning $2.35 million this season and under team control for two more years, Carlson could attract interest from teams in need of outfield help. 

A fresh start in a new environment could help him rediscover his 2021 form and fulfill his potential. 

With the Cardinals at a crossroads, balancing between competing for a postseason berth and assessing their trade deadline strategy, moving Carlson seems almost inevitable. This could provide the Cardinals an opportunity to acquire assets that better align with their current needs and offer Carlson a chance to revive his career elsewhere.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports