The St. Louis Cardinals’ $60 Million Attempt to Land All-Star Slugger at Trade Deadline

In a bold move to bolster their lineup, the St. Louis Cardinals made a daring attempt to acquire a $60 million All-Star slugger at the previous trade deadline. Despite their efforts, the deal ultimately fell through, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what could have been for the Cardinals’ offense.

The Cardinals, known for their aggressive approach to trades, set their sights on the highly sought after slugger in hopes of adding some much-needed power to their lineup. With a hefty price tag of $60 million, it was clear that the Cardinals were serious about making a splash in the trade market.

Rumors swirled as the trade deadline approached, with many speculating that the Cardinals were the front-runners to land the All-Star slugger. Fans eagerly awaited the announcement, hoping to see their team make a major move to solidify their chances at a playoff run.

However, as the deadline passed, it became clear that the Cardinals’ efforts had been in vain. The deal had fallen through, leaving the team and their fans disappointed and wondering what could have been.

Despite the disappointment, the Cardinals remain determined to improve their lineup and make a push for the playoffs. With their aggressive approach to trades, it’s only a matter of time before they make another bold move to strengthen their team. As for the $60 million All-Star slugger, only  

The St. Louis Cardinals Make Moves at 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

The St. Louis Cardinals made some big moves at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, but not in the way fans might have expected. Instead of buying players, the Cardinals were sellers, shipping off relievers Ryan Helsley, Phil Maton, and Steven Matz.

Cardinals Tried to Acquire Slugger Brent Rooker

According to Derrick Goold of The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Cardinals had their sights set on acquiring Athletics slugger Brent Rooker to bolster their outfield. However, their efforts were unsuccessful as Rooker signed a $60 million extension with the Athletics.

Missed Opportunity for Cardinals

“There are fewer and fewer of those types of hitters available via trade, and they’re pricey on the open market,” Goold said. “At one point a year or so ago it sure seemed like Brent Rooker would be the answer for the Cardinals via trade, but that never developed because he signed an extension to stay an A…”

Cardinals’ Search for Right-Handed Hitting Outfielder

With three left-handed hitting outfielders on their roster, the Cardinals were looking to add a right-handed hitter for better flexibility. They had been inquiring with the Athletics to land Rooker in a deadline deal, but were unable to make it happen.

Rooker’s Impressive Stats

In 2025, Rooker has a .274 batting average with a .848 OPS in 112 games. He has 199 hits, 69 runs scored, 24 doubles, three triples, 23 home runs, and 63 RBIs on the season. In 2023 and 2025, he was an All-Star and has been one of the better sluggers in baseball over the past three seasons.

Missed Opportunity for Cardinals’ Outfield

If the Cardinals had been able to acquire Rooker, their outfield would have had more versatility and potentially led to one of their outfielders being traded. However, since the deal fell through, the Cardinals are moving forward with other plans, hoping Ivan Herrera and Jordan Walker can step up.

Cardinals’ Previous Attempt to Land Rooker

The Cardinals had previously tried to acquire Rooker at a prior trade deadline, but were unable to make a deal. It would have been a great move for the team, as Rooker has proven himself to be worth the $60 million contract he earned after his incredible 2024 season.

More MLB News

– Astros trade for 27-year-old left-handed-hitting Marlins outfielder
– Astros agree to blockbuster trade with Twins for Carlos Correa
– Padres trade Ryan Bergert, Stephen Kolek to Royals for a new catcher
– Tigers lost out to Mets on trade for Cardinals’ Ryan Helsley
– Padres pull off blockbuster trade for Athletics’ Mason Miller
– Guardians to trade Cy Young starter Shane Bieber to Blue Jays 

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