Cardinals Face Roster Challenges, Eye First Base Replacements

The St. Louis Cardinals are facing significant challenges both on and off the field, with internal discontent pointing to a deteriorating player development system. With two consecutive disappointing seasons, the Cardinals may offload high-cost, underperforming players like Miles Mikolas and seek new talent through free agency and trades. Paul Goldschmidt's likely departure will necessitate finding a new first baseman, with potential targets including Pete Alonso and Christian Walker. The team's offensive struggles and inadequate pitching support highlight the need for strategic acquisitions to return to competitiveness. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Royals and Chicago Cubs are also navigating their own roster decisions, with players like Michael Wacha and Cody Bellinger uncertain about their futures.