The St. Louis Cardinals seem to have made up their minds heading into the trade deadline and they’re leaning toward selling rather than gearing up for a 2025 playoff push. With their postseason hopes fading fast, the team is expected to move several players on expiring contracts, especially in the bullpen.
One name gaining attention is Phil Maton, who’s quietly been one of the Cardinals’ most dependable relievers this season. Signed to a modest one-year, $2 million deal before the year began (and notably the team’s only free-agent signing), Maton has delivered strong results: a 2.35 ERA over 40 appearances. He may not rack up flashy saves, but his reliability and calm presence have made him a valuable part of St. Louis’ bullpen.
But with Maton, Ryan Helsley, and Steven Matz all set to become free agents after the season, and the Cardinals nine games out of a Wild Card spot, the front office has little reason to hold onto them.
Instead, they’re looking to turn short-term assets into longer-term help, especially to boost a farm system hit hard by pitching injuries.
One team showing interest in Maton is the Seattle Mariners, who are in the playoff race but have had issues in the bullpen. Seattle’s relief crew currently holds a 3.88 ERA with average strikeout numbers, and the team has already shown it’s ready to buy, trading for Josh Naylor earlier this month.
According to FanSided’s Thomas Gauvain, the Mariners are a natural landing spot for Maton. While he likely won’t bring in a top-tier prospect like a high-leverage closer would, the Cardinals could still net a solid mid-level pitching prospect, exactly what they need to restock the upper minors.
A potential deal would be a win-win: Seattle gets a durable, steady veteran for the final playoff push, and St. Louis gains value for a player they probably wouldn’t re-sign this offseason, especially with Maton’s price tag expected to rise.
As the trade deadline looms, all eyes will be on the Cardinals’ bullpen, and Phil Maton is shaping up to be one of their most tradable chips.
