After spending six seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals, highlighted by his 2022 National League Most Valuable Player Award, reports suggest that first baseman Paul Goldschmidt’s tenure with the team is likely coming to an end this offseason.
One key reason for Goldschmidt’s probable departure is his declining performance at the plate over the last two seasons. After posting an impressive .317/.404/.578 line with an OPS+ of 177 in 2022, he has managed just .257/.333/.430 with an OPS+ of 109 across 308 games since then.
As the Cardinals shift their strategy after missing the playoffs for two consecutive years, several teams could be potential landing spots for Goldschmidt as he embarks on the next chapter of his MLB career. Here are three possibilities for a short-term contract:
1. **Arizona Diamondbacks**
Goldschmidt was drafted by the Diamondbacks in 2009 and made his MLB debut with them in 2011, spending eight seasons with the club. A return to Arizona would resonate emotionally and bolster a team that narrowly missed the postseason in 2024. With Christian Walker likely to leave via free agency, Goldschmidt could fill the first base gap. Additionally, with Joc Pederson also hitting free agency after leading the team with 105 games as designated hitter last season, Goldschmidt could enhance the lineup in multiple ways.
2. **Houston Astros**
Last season, Houston’s first basemen combined for a -3.0 bWAR, placing them 28th out of 30 MLB teams. Following a quick postseason exit, addressing the first base position is a significant offseason priority for the Astros. Goldschmidt could serve as a short-term solution, providing the veteran presence needed to aid their playoff aspirations. This would also give him an opportunity to pursue a World Series title, which has eluded him throughout his 14-year career. Houston’s general manager Dana Brown has expressed the goal of making a deep postseason run in 2025, and signing a player like Goldschmidt could help achieve that.
3. **Milwaukee Brewers**
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Brewers believe Goldschmidt still has much to offer. After winning the NL Central this season but falling in the wild-card round, Milwaukee is looking to add players who can help them advance further in 2025. Rhys Hoskins, who primarily played first base for the Brewers last season, will be returning. However, the team ranked 25th in combined bWAR for the position, finishing with a -2.4. This indicates a need for additional offensive strength at first base, making Goldschmidt an appealing option.
