“What about Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, who becomes a free agent at the end of the season? “Goldschmidt’s performance hasn’t lived up to his stellar track record, but there aren’t many players better than him,” noted Kirschner. “If the Cardinals fall out of the playoff race in the next several weeks, he would make sense for the Yankees as a rental.”
The St. Louis Cardinals are 31-34 and ranked last in the National League Central. They could be selling some older players, and Goldschmidt could be on the move.
Goldschmidt’s Fit for the Yankees
Goldschmidt has spent the past six seasons with the Cardinals. The seven-time All-Star has not performed as well in 2024 as he has in other years, but he may still contribute to the Yankees if moved. Goldschmidt has also been identified as a trade candidate for the Yankees early this season.
“I think it depends on how Goldschmidt performs between now and the trade deadline,” Jim Bowden of The Athletic wrote on May 23. “If he proves over the next several months that he is an upgrade over [Anthony] Rizzo or in a platoon with him, I will consider it. He’s still an excellent first-base defender, a clubhouse leader, and a proven winner.”
Rizzo, a three-time All-Star, has struggled mightily in 2024. He’s slicing.220/.279/.332 for the year. Goldschmidt is suffering in 2024, but given his track record of accomplishment, he has the potential to turn things around.
Goldschmidt has a.225 batting average and a.646 OPS after 63 games this season. He has seven home runs this season.
Unlike Rizzo, Goldschmidt’s advanced analytics are showing signs of life. Goldschmidt has a 44.6 hard hit % in 2024. That number is higher than his two All-Star seasons in 2016 and 2018.
Goldschmidt’s Resume and Contract
In addition to his MVP and seven All-Star selections, Goldschmidt owns five Silver Sluggers and four Gold Glove Awards. The 36-year-old will become a free agent after this season.
“I wouldn’t overpay for Goldschmidt, who will turn 37 in September, considering he’s a rental and has the same age and decline issues as Rizzo,” stated Bowden. “However, to deepen the lineup and protect against future injuries, it makes some sense.”
The Yankees haven’t have much depth at first base this year. Oswaldo Cabrera and Rizzo were the only players to play first base until recently, when DJ LeMahieu returned. If the Yankees sign Goldschmidt, LeMahieu could continue to play third base.
Despite the short sample size, Goldschmidt has had success hitting at Yankee Stadium. He has a.385 batting average, one home run, and a 1.000 OPS in three games.
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