Astros Hurler Reportedly Could Be Available; Would Be Perfect Fit For Cardinals
Could the St. Louis Cardinals bolster their pitching staff with a versatile right-hander who could add depth to both the rotation and bullpen?
Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak appears to be fairly content with his group of starting pitchers but is open to the idea of trading for another rotation piece if they fit. He's also said that he'd be more likely to pursue relief help through the free-agent market.
Well, there is an option that could become available who bridges the gap between both roles.
The Houston Astros could look to shed some salary according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal on Friday. Among the names listed to potentially be moved by Rosenthal was José Urquidy, who is projected to be owed $3.5 million next season and is under team control for two more seasons. Rosenthal noted that the Astros have attempted to trade Urquidy in the past, furthering the likelihood of his availability this winter.
The 28-year-old posted a career-high 5.29 ERA in 63 innings across 10 starts and six relief appearances last season but has been much better over the course of his career.
Urquidy posted a career 3.74 ERA (110 ERA+) with a 20.3% strikeout rate, 5.2% walk rate, .233 batting average against and 1.09 WHIP in 342 innings entering the 2023 season.
The right-hander could be a perfect swingman for the Cardinals, someone who could provide a spot start if injuries occur or serve as a multi-inning reliever with a fully-stocked rotation.
If the Cardinals could acquire a player who bridges the gap between the starters and the high-leverage options on the roster, they'd be able to lock down leads all season long.
It would make a lot of sense to acquire a versatile swingman to bolster the pitching staff as a whole entering the 2024 season.
St. Louis should inquire about Urquidy, possibly offering a player from their outfield depth such as Alec Burleson. He'd classify as an ultimate buy-low candidate after the worst year of his career.
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