MLB Rumors: 3 assets the Braves, Cardinals and Astros can trade for Shane Bieber

MLB Rumors: A Cardinals trade for Shane Bieber

If the St. Louis Cardinals trade for Shane Bieber, expect the Guardians to ask about Jordan Walker. That, however, will likely be a non-starter for a Cards front office which values its prospects more than most MLB teams. Looking beyond Walker, however, the Cardinals have some intriguing young players who could benefit a team like Cleveland.

Dylan Carlson and Tyler O’Neill, two talented outfielders who have yet to really hit their stride this season, are two players St. Louis would likely be willing to trade in any deal for Bieber. That trade could include one of the two, whichever the Guardians prefer. O’Neill is the better defender, while Carlson’s bat is reportedly so potent that the front office didn’t want to include him in trade talks for Juan Soto last year.

Matthew Liberatore is finally receiving his opportunity in St. Louis, and at 23 years old, he is a top-100 prospect per MLB Pipeline. Liberatore has pitched well at every level, though his limited experience in the big leagues at this point — as well as his up-and-down numbers — are a bit of a concern. MLB Pipeline summed up his recent struggles quite well:

"“Generally a good strike thrower, Liberatore saw his control back up against the advanced competition of The Show, but he still projects to be average in the category. It’s how he pitches in the zone that could next be a focus. His diverse pitch mix should always give him a chance to start, and his slight uptick in velo in 2023 gives him a much better chance at being a mid-rotation starter in St. Louis.”"

Still, Liberatore is the exact type of young pitcher who can thrive with the right coaching and development. The Guardians have that and then some.

Tink Hence is just 20 years old, and already rocketing up the Cardinals minor-league system. He ought to be off-limits in any trade talks, including for Bieber, unless the St. Louis front office feels strongly about such a move. Hence has received some rave reviews of late, including this from a rival scout via The Athletic:

"“He’s 20 years old and throws four pitches, all of which are average or above, and he’s a strike-thrower with command. I saw him in the past when he first signed as a second-rounder in 2020, and he was interesting then. Now, he looks like he’s got a chance to be on the fast track.”"

That’s not a player you trade, but neither is Bieber, frankly.