After a 90-minute rain delay, the St. Louis Cardinals kicked off their season in front of 47,395 fans at Busch Stadium. Two noteworthy figures took the field, leaving many fans surprised: Nolan Arenado celebrated a home run with a curtain call, while Sonny Gray delivered a strong performance in a Cardinals uniform.
As rumors swirled during the offseason, the Cardinals were expected to be a focal point, with both Arenado and Gray potentially on the move by the start of the season. The franchise was undergoing a shift, transitioning from longtime executive John Mozeliak to Chaim Bloom, who will take over in 2026. This offseason hinted at the likelihood of trading veteran players.
Such downturns in the Cardinals’ performance are unusual, as the team typically makes headlines for acquiring stars rather than parting with them. Previous acquisitions, like Paul Goldschmidt in December 2018 and Arenado before the 2021 season, helped maintain their winning streak. However, a disappointing 71-91 record in 2023 prompted the franchise to rethink its strategy amidst declining revenue.
Mozeliak acknowledged this shift, stating, “The word ‘reset’ can be interpreted differently. I prefer ‘transition’ as it better conveys our goals.” He noted the adjustments the team is making due to reduced television and ticket sales revenue, which ultimately affects payroll decisions.
While the team aimed to reassess its direction during the offseason, efforts to trade veterans like Arenado, Gray, and others fell through due in part to no-trade clauses in their contracts. This unexpected reticence forced a change in strategy for the 2025 season, focusing on developing young talent while still aiming to win games with a veteran squad.
The Cardinals also retained key players, including All-Star closer Ryan Helsley and starter Erick Fedde, beginning the season with an average-aged roster. The absence of any qualified rookies on Opening Day for the first time since 2007 didn’t stop the team from dedicating time to younger players, ensuring they provide a platform for growth during this transitional phase.
As the regular season unfolds, manager Marmol will need to balance current competitiveness with future potential. “You can find opportunities to do both,” he stated, emphasizing the need for careful management as the season progresses. With players like Helsley surprised to remain with the team, the dynamics could shift as the Cardinals navigate the competitive landscape of the MLB.
