As Spring Training gains momentum, Scott Boras’ clients are facing increasing pressure to secure team placements. The first of the quartet represented by Boras, Cody Bellinger, has made his move, rejoining the Chicago Cubs on a 3-year, $80 million deal featuring opt-out clauses annually. Bellinger’s contract could serve as a reference point for the remaining Boras-affiliated players—Matt Chapman, Blake Snell, and Jordan Montgomery—as they navigate their own negotiations to avoid being left without a team as time runs out. Of particular interest are Montgomery and Snell for the St. Louis Cardinals, especially if they consider shorter-term contracts with opt-outs.
The Cardinals have evidently addressed their pitching rotation with Lance Lynn and Kyle Gibson, though these choices may not be optimal. While Sonny Gray adds significant potential at the forefront, the team’s pitching depth beyond Gray appears lacking. Bringing on Montgomery or Snell on a shorter-term basis could significantly bolster the Cardinals’ chances of contending for the championship in 2024.
Additionally, with Bellinger’s return, the Cubs are now perceived as frontrunners in the NL Central by numerous projection systems. However, doubts persist about Bellinger’s ability to single-handedly elevate the Cubs to divisional dominance, especially following the departure of Marcus Stroman. Nonetheless, Bellinger’s move does tighten the race within the division. For the Cardinals to truly assert themselves as favorites, acquiring another starting pitcher is imperative.
Given the Cardinals’ reluctance to commit to long-term contracts for starting pitchers, a scenario where Snell or Montgomery’s asking prices decrease for shorter-term deals with higher annual values could reignite interest from the Cardinals. Opt-out clauses would incentivize Snell and Montgomery to re-enter free agency, while also mitigating long-term risks associated with injuries or performance decline. Moreover, considering Gray’s contract structure, the Cardinals might have some flexibility in their budget to accommodate another high-quality starting pitcher.
Ultimately, it appears unlikely that the Cardinals will make further pitching additions before Opening Day. However, the potential for a late Spring acquisition cannot be discounted.
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