The Cardinals stand on the brink of another critical offseason moment, and as the Winter Meetings approach, so does the pressure. With a roster in flux and expectations rising from a frustrated fanbase, Chaim Bloom’s decisions could determine whether the Cardinals rebound in 2026 or slide further into mediocrity.
Among the biggest question marks looming is Willson Contreras.
Contreras, the fiery, power-hitting catcher and clubhouse leader, could be on the move. Despite publicly stating he wanted to remain in St. Louis at season’s end, new reports reveal he’s now open to waiving his no-trade clause, if the fit is right.
A Bat the Cardinals Can’t Afford to Lose
Contreras isn’t just another trade chip. He’s one of the few proven offensive performers left on the roster. In 2025, the 33-year-old led the team with 20 home runs and finished with a .791 OPS, no small feat on a club that ranked second-to-last in home runs. As the Cardinals continue their retooling process, removing one of the only reliable power bats in the lineup would be a short-sighted move.
Veteran Leadership Has Value – Especially Now
There’s also his impact off the field.
Since arriving in 2023, Contreras has quickly become one of the most seasoned voices in the clubhouse. With names like Adam Wainwright gone, and veterans like Nolan Arenado potentially on the move, who steps up to guide the young core? Trading Contreras would remove a much-needed stabilizing force, a player who’s been through postseason wars, understands the grind, and has embraced leadership in a difficult transitional period.
His willingness to shift to first base when needed in 2025 spoke volumes about his character and team-first mindset. That kind of presence matters in a 162-game season, especially when a franchise is trying to rebuild its identity without bottoming out.
The Risk of Regression Without Contreras Is Real
Of course, the allure of clearing salary or acquiring young pitching might tempt Bloom. Contreras is still owed $36.5 million over the next two seasons, with a club option in 2028. But the cost of parting ways with him may be far greater than any salary relief or prospect haul.
Without Contreras, the Cardinals don’t just lose production, they lose continuity, identity, and perhaps even the ability to tread water in a competitive NL Central. After finishing 71-91 just a year ago, taking another step back could alienate the fanbase and further delay the turnaround.
If the Cardinals want to remain relevant while rebuilding, if they want to show their young players what competing looks like, if they want a bat that opposing pitchers still fear, they’ll keep Contreras in red and white.
Because sometimes, the best move is the one you don’t make.
