Cardinals: 3 DH options that would make pitchers terrified in 2022

Dominican Albert Pujols of the Leones del Escogido is seen during a Dominican League baseball game against the Toros del Este at the Quisqueya stadium in Santo Domingo, on November 3, 2021. - Pujols made his debut in the league of his country on Sunday. (Photo by Erika SANTELICES / AFP) (Photo by ERIKA SANTELICES/afp/AFP via Getty Images) /

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HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 27: Nelson Cruz of the Tampa Bay Rays is presented the Roberto Clemente Award by Luis Clemente and MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred prior to Game Two of the World Series between the Houston Astros and the Atlanta Braves at Minute Maid Park on October 27, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

1. Nelson Cruz

Last but not least, Nelson Cruz is another wanted man by countless MLB teams this offseason. Cruz has the kind of power that is always going to provide plenty of problems for opposing pitchers. And despite Cruz also being in his 40s, he’s still balling out like the old days.

This past season combined for the Twins and Rays, Cruz hit .265 with 32 homers and 86 RBI. After starting off his career with the Milwaukee Brewers way back in 2005, Cruz has suited up in the American League for the Rangers, Orioles, Mariners, Twins and Rays.

So, could a return to the NL be in the cards for him with St. Louis? The fact of the matter here is that St. Louis could end up signing Cruz to a one-year deal and sell him on the ability to win a World Series in 2022. Because he’s 41, no team is going to want to ink him to a long-term contract. If he wants to win it all before hanging up his cleats, St. Louis could prove to be the place for him.

3 big names on the trade block Cardinals should target. dark. Next

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