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The St. Louis Cardinals‘ current off-season has been a lot different than what the fanbase is accustomed to. With the organization’s newfound focus on improving their player development, it’s likely there will be no meaningful additions via trade or free agency. However, there is one free agent that would be an inexpensive and logical addition. The Cardinals might not be making any big moves this off-season, but there’s no reason they can’t make an addition or two to solidify a young roster.
Quality Relievers are Hard to Find
St. Louis has some exciting young players on the way, position players and pitchers. However, there is always a need for a veteran presence, even on a team that is rebuilding. Some would argue it’s even more important for a young team in rebuild mode to have veterans to help the younger players develop. One player that they shouldn’t hesitate to bring back is free agent reliever Andrew Kittredge.
Kittredge Provides Steady Presence in the Bullpen
The veteran reliever was acquired last off-season via trade with the Tampa Bay Rays. Kittredge’s performance turned out to be one of the few bright spots during the Cardinals’ mediocre 2024 season. Furthermore, their record would have been a lot worse without the National League leading 37 holds put up by the crafty reliever. Additionally, it made it possible for the flamethrowing closer Ryan Helsley to be used mainly in the ninth. Paving the way to a Cardinals’ organization record of 49 saves.
Without the combination of Helsley and Kittredge, who knows what the Cardinals’ record would have been. They certainly wouldn’t have won 83 games. If they decide to add anyone, Kittredge should be at the top of their list. The righty posted a 2.80 ERA with a 1.132 WHIP and 67 strikeouts over 70.2 innings pitched to go along with his 37 holds. It makes complete sense to bring back the right-handed reliever, and it should be well within the team’s budget.
