The MLB trade deadline is still more than two months away, but teams are already starting to map out their strategies. One team to watch closely is the St. Louis Cardinals. Currently second in the National League Central with a 22–19 record, the Cardinals were actively shopping several of their star players during the offseason. However, a potential red flag has emerged regarding one of their biggest trade chips.
Buster Olney Says Cardinals Ace Sonny Gray’s Contract Scares Teams
Top MLB insider Buster Olney noted in his trade deadline preview that the Cardinals’ efforts to deal Sonny Gray could be complicated due to the structure of his contract. Gray signed a three-year, $75 million deal that pays him $10 million in 2024, $25 million this season, and $35 million in 2026.
Paying $35 million to Gray, who will be 36 at the start of next season, is a tough sell for most teams. Gray is currently 4–1 with a 3.50 ERA. He remains an effective pitcher, capable of shutting down lineups with his command and ability to limit hard contact. The problem is that teams trading for Gray and assuming that salary might expect frontline stuff—comparable to pitchers like Tarik Skubal or Gerrit Cole.
Gray, at this stage in his career, may profile more as a No. 2 or No. 3 starter on a championship-caliber team, yet he’s being paid like a bona fide ace. His average fastball velocity has dropped nearly three miles per hour since 2018, declining from nearly 94 mph to just over 90 mph in 2025.
While he compensates with elite control, it’s unlikely he’ll replicate an extended run with a sub-2.00 ERA again. Gray would be a valuable addition to any postseason rotation—just not at that price.
This season is pivotal for the Cardinals, especially with longtime executive John Mozeliak stepping down after a 30-year tenure in the organization. St. Louis shopped several players this past offseason, including third baseman Nolan Arenado and closer Ryan Helsley. They also considered moving other starting pitchers—such as Miles Mikolas and Steven Matz—alongside Gray.
Much of the Cardinals’ deadline direction will depend on their performance in the next few weeks. Their schedule won’t do them any favors—they’re facing a tough stretch with upcoming series against the Philadelphia Phillies, Kansas City Royals, and Detroit Tigers.
Still, if they can make it through the next few weeks and remain in playoff contention, maybe the Cardinals won’t feel as required to shop Gray. He’s an incredible pitcher to have in the postseason rotation, and they’d be grateful to have him if they find themselves in that spot.