Cardinals rumors make former NY Mets GM’s trade idea feel more possible

It’s easy to forget how good the St. Louis Cardinals were supposed to be this past season because of how mediocre they were. For three years straight, they’ve missed the postseason. Their last trip was in 2022 when the Philadelphia Phillies eliminated them in their two game NLWC matchup. Once a team New York Mets fans could envy, the Cardinals have become less admirable in recent seasons.

On the surface they look good. A nice mix of veterans and young players. Where have Mets fans felt this before?

The team is now at a point in its history where selling off pieces has become a realistic goal. This could involve trading money as well to help clear the salaries of some of their higher priced players off the books. Already having a feel this might be the case, former Mets GM Zack Scott had a trade idea earlier this week that suddenly feels a little more possible.

Zack Scott suggested Mark Vientos for Willson Contreras and it might not be so outrageous, at least in terms of realism

Willson Contreras is owed another $36.5 million over the next two seasons with a buyout for the third. The converted catcher turned first baseman had a really good season defensively for the Cardinals. He was among the best fielding the position in terms of OAA. He ranked fourth among all players in MLB at the position.

Swapping Mark Vientos for Contreras would be a major step in altering the entire look of the Mets roster. It means last winter’s Pete Alonso backup plan (Vientos) is gone. In all likelihood, it also means the Polar Bear is searching for a new iceberg to call home, too.

Along with Contreras, Nolan Arenado and Sonny Gray are two other expensive players the Cardinals would be willing to trade. Arenado’s deal doesn’t look so bad with $16 million next season and $15 million the year after. Gray’s backloaded deal has him earning $35 million in 2026. There’s a team option for $30 million the following year with a $5 million buyout.

There are creative ways to make this work for both sides. Relieving themselves of cash is something the Cardinals would love to do. Along with sending money, pairing one of the veterans off with a more desirable player could happen, too.

Existing Mets rumors of a possible trade for Contreras or any other first baseman aren’t out there. Come November, when free agency opens up and players are traded quickly, it’s one of those names to watch out for.