The St. Louis Cardinals are looking to accelerate their rebuild by trading Key Outfielder to the New York Yankees in exchange for two of the Yankees’ top prospects. MLB analyst Jacob Mountz of FanSided proposed the deal as the Yankees seek a replacement for Giancarlo Stanton, who is expected to miss a significant amount of time due to injuries.
Cardinals acquire:
- Roderick Arias (7th-ranked Yankees prospect)
- Rafael Flores (17th-ranked Yankees prospect)
Yankees acquire:
- Lars Nootbaar
Nootbaar, who is set to earn $2.95 million in 2025, is a solid defensive outfielder and baserunner, making him a valuable asset for the Yankees. While not as powerful a hitter as Stanton, Nootbaar hit .244 with 12 home runs and 45 RBIs in 2024, providing the Yankees with a reliable outfield option. He is under contract with New York for two more years before hitting free agency in 2028.
In exchange, the Cardinals are adding two promising young prospects. Roderick Arias, a 20-year-old middle infielder, posted a .233 average with 13 home runs and 74 RBIs in A-ball last season. Rafael Flores, a catcher/first baseman, hit .279 with 21 home runs and 68 RBIs in AA last year, and is projected to make his MLB debut by 2026.
Mountz explains why the trade benefits the Cardinals
The trade strengthens the Cardinals’ future by adding young talent to their farm system. With Nootbaar being a cost-effective, reliable outfielder, the deal aligns with St. Louis’ ongoing rebuild efforts. The Cardinals are focused on bolstering their roster with long-term potential, and this trade provides them with two players that could make an impact in the near future.
Stanton’s Extended Absence
Giancarlo Stanton‘s injury struggles, including issues with both elbows and a chronic calf injury, have prompted the Yankees to seek a replacement. MLB insider Jon Heyman reported that Stanton could require surgery and may be out for several months or even the season. While Stanton remains hopeful that his rehab will allow for a quicker return, his extended absence opens the door for the Yankees to add depth with Nootbaar, who could also provide them with an option at leadoff.
