Cardinals: 3 catcher upgrades to trade for with Yadier Molina still hurt

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DETROIT, MI – JULY 3: Catcher Tucker Barnhart #15 of the Detroit Tigers replaces his PitchCom ear piece after visiting the mound in a game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on July 3, 2022, in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

3. Tucker Barnhart

Barnhart is in the final season of a five-year deal worth $23 million. Barnhart, who is currently with the Detroit Tigers after a trade from the Cincinnati Reds, will be a free agent in 2023.

Defensively, he has -4 defensive runs saved for the Tigers. For his career, though, Barnhart has 16 defensive runs saved. Given a change in scenery to a winning environment, Barnhart could return to form as a catcher with some defensive prowess.

Barnhart is hitting .207/.268/.243 with an OPS of .510, six doubles, 14 walks, eight runs scored, and nine RBI. Barnhart has a 29.5% K rate, which is terrible to see. Barnhart would present a huge gamble for the Cardinals. The Detroit Tigers are 37-55 and just scraping by in the AL Central. They may soon decide it’s time to see if they can get something in exchange for Barnhart before he leaves for free agency in the offseason.

The Cardinals could provide the ultimate change in scenery for the 31-year-old, seven-season veteran catcher.

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