Cardinals Rumors: Surprise extension, Dylan Carlson-Yankees link, Rays trade idea
By Mark Powell
Cardinals Rumors: Is Jeffrey Springs available?
In April, Jeffrey Springs was untouchable. The young Rays pitcher is one of the best arms in Tampa Bay’s system, and had a 2.46 ERA last season in relief. In three appearances this year, he had a 0.56 ERA, looking even more electric as a starter. Since then, though, Springs has undergone Tommy John surgery, which could take upwards of a full year to recover from. Springs hopes to return in time for Rays spring training next season.
As the trade deadline nears, one thing is remarkably clear — Tampa Bay is desperate. The AL East is up for grabs thanks to a surge from the up-and-coming Baltimore Orioles. Despite a seemingly-insurmountable early-season lead by the Rays, that is no longer the case. If the Rays want to avoid the AL Wild Card, they may need some pitching help. This is where the Cardinals come in.
Josh Jacobs of Redbird Rants floated a Flaherty-for-Springs trade. I’m of the mindset Montgomery may need to be included in this trade, while Tampa can add in another mid-level prospect. A Tommy John recovery isn’t as intimidating these days as it was just a few years ago. Springs should be fine with the right medical supervision. And when he returns, the expectation will be that he performs up to his standard. For St. Louis, that may be enough to lead the rotation.
Jacobs made his argument in an article via Redbird Rants:
"“Well, this may be one of the unique opportunities to acquire a cost-controlled difference maker for their rotation while only using their expiring assets to do so. Springs is expected back by the middle of 2024 and makes just $5.2 million next year. His salary jumps up to $10.5 million in 2025 and 2026, and there is a $15 million club option for 2027. The Rays are trying to win a World Series this year, and have money wrapped up into a guy who will not pitch until next summer.”"
If the Rays are willing, it’s worth a phone call.