Realistic Starting Pitching Options for Cardinals in 2026 | Cards Central 365

Joe Roderick and Brenden Schaeffer break down realistic St. Louis Cardinals moves for this hot stove season, focusing on value pitching instead of top-tier free agents. They talk one-year “pillow” deals and short two-year bets, the rotation holes after Miles Mikolas departs, and how bridge arms can buy time for prospects like Quinn Mathews and others. Names discussed include Walker Buehler as a bounce-back play, Lucas Giolito as a pricier longshot after his Tommy John return, and KBO standout Cody Ponce as a Miles Mikolas-style flier. They also hit strategy, contract ranges, and how these signings could create mid-season trade chips if things click. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices