Will The Cardinals Trade A Catcher This Offseason?

MLB Trade Rumors examines whether the St. Louis Cardinals will trade from their surplus of major league catchers this offseason. With 22-year-old Leo Bernal positioned as the likely primary catcher for 2027 and top prospect Rainiel Rodriguez rising through the minors, the front office could look to shop Iván Herrera, Jimmy Crooks, or Pedro Pagés to address other roster needs.

Herrera offers strong offensive value against left-handed pitching and as a designated hitter, though he struggles significantly with throwing out baserunners. Meanwhile, Crooks provides defensive promise and Triple-A success that could appeal to teams needing a long-term starter, while Pagés represents an established, defensively sound backup option eligible for arbitration.