Cardinals Face Dilemma with Nolan Gorman: Is a Trade the Solution?

CINCINNATI, OHIO - Nolan Gorman, the St. Louis Cardinals' promising infielder, has struggled to maintain consistency over the past few seasons, prompting discussions about his future with the team. After showing initial promise, Gorman's performance has seen a notable decline, raising questions about whether it's time for a change.

Gorman's statistics tell a troubling story. He hit 27 home runs in 2023, but that number plummeted to 19 in 2024 and further to just 14 in 2025. His batting average has similarly deteriorated, starting at .236 in 2023 and dropping to a dismal .199 this season. This downward trend suggests that the Cardinals may need to reassess their approach with Gorman.

Currently, Gorman is out of minor league options, meaning the team faces a tough decision. The only way to remove him from the Major League roster would be to designate him for assignment or explore trade possibilities. Given his struggles, trading him could be in the best interest of both the team and Gorman himself, as a new environment might help him rediscover his potential.

While the Cardinals might not receive significant returns for Gorman, he still holds some value. A potential trade could involve a swap of struggling players or a mid-tier relief pitcher. Moreover, if the team waits until closer to the trade deadline, Gorman could be included in a larger package deal that offers a team a chance to take a risk on his high power potential.

Finding a suitable replacement for Gorman poses another challenge. While some have suggested calling up Blaze Jordan, concerns about his range at third base have been raised. Other candidates like Jose Fermin and Thomas Saggese have limited experience at the position, complicating the decision further. As the Cardinals evaluate their roster needs for the 2026 season, it’s clear that third base requires attention.

Ultimately, while the desire for Gorman's success remains, it may be time for the Cardinals to pursue a trade. This could provide a fresh start for Gorman and better align the team's roster moving forward.