3 big-name shortstops St. Louis Cardinals should sign

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BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 5: Xander Bogaerts #2 of the Boston Red Sox throws t-shirts to fans for shirts off our backs before a game against the Tampa Bay Rays on October 5, 2022 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Billie Weiss/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images) /

Cardinals shortstop targets: Xander Bogaerts

Xander Bogaerts was named a Gold Glove finalist on Thursday — so much for that narrative about a looming position change. Bogaerts will opt out of his current Red Sox contract and become a free agent this offseason. It has not been a well-kept secret.

With that in mind, where could Bogaerts go?

St. Louis makes a lot of sense in theory. They would have to break the mold and spend big money in free agency, something they have failed to do in recent years. Per Mac Cerullo of the Gloucester Times, the Cardinals are expected to pursue Bogaerts.

"“Others to keep an eye on include the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs and Baltimore Orioles. The Cardinals are flush with cash after this past summer’s Albert Pujols retirement tour and are expected to pursue a big shortstop so Tommy Edman can move back to second base.”"

Would it be out of character for St. Louis to spend so much on a shortstop? Absolutely. But Bogaerts isn’t just a shortstop. He can play multiple positions when called upon, and has the range to excel at short if called upon.

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