The St. Louis Cardinals have a young core of players that are poised to become the backbone of the team for years to come. With the 2023 season in full swing, it's an exciting time for fans to witness the growth and potential of these athletes. However, as we look ahead to the future, the question arises: which young Cardinals players are likely to be extended long-term? In my opinion, the answer is not as straightforward as it may seem.
One player who stands out is second baseman JJ Wetherholt. At just 23 years old, Wetherholt has already shown immense talent and potential. His performance on the field has been impressive, and the Cardinals would undoubtedly want to keep him around for the foreseeable future. However, there are some factors to consider. Firstly, Wetherholt will turn 24 in September, which is relatively young for a rookie. The Cardinals have him under team control until 2031, but extending him would mean committing to the early years of his 30s, which can be a risky move for a middle infielder. If Wetherholt continues to excel, the Cardinals may have to justify paying superstar money for those extra years. It's a delicate balance, and the terms of any extension would be crucial.
Another player to watch is right fielder Jordan Walker. Walker is only four months older than Wetherholt, but his situation is quite different. Walker has already been with the Cardinals for four seasons, and he's just now breaking out. With his star status on the rise, the Cardinals would want to ensure they keep him in the lineup for the long haul. However, Walker is due to hit free agency after the 2029 season, which is sooner than desired. The Cardinals may consider a deal that buys out those first few years of free agency, such as a six-year contract starting next year, allowing Walker to hit the market at 30 if he chooses. It's a strategic move to retain his services while also allowing him to explore other opportunities.
Iván Herrera, a 25-year-old catcher/designated hitter, is also on the radar. Herrera has been raking when healthy and continues to show promise. However, the question remains whether he will remain a part-time catcher or switch to a full-time designated hitter role. If he moves to first base or DH, his value may decrease, and the Cardinals may want to wait and see before making a decision. They have several catchers in the minors, so they can afford to be patient.
Shortstop Masyn Winn is another intriguing prospect. At 24 years old, Winn has an otherworldly defense and the potential to become a league-average batter. However, his lack of power and injury history may limit his extension value. The Cardinals may want to wait and see if Winn can progress offensively before making any significant decisions. A bit more offensive production could elevate him to MVP candidate status, but his value would collapse if he had to play anywhere other than shortstop.
While these players are all young and talented, the Cardinals may be holding off on extensions for this year. This could be a strategic move to assess the potential of these players and make more informed decisions in the future. It's a delicate balance between enjoying the present and planning for the long term. Personally, I think the Cardinals should take a step back and evaluate the potential of these young players. Enjoying the present moment is good for the soul, but it's also important to recognize the value of these athletes and plan accordingly. The Cardinals have a bright future ahead, and these young players will be key to their success.
