Ex-Cardinals Gold Glover is called the “secret weapon” for the NL West Champs defense

The St. Louis Cardinals have parted ways with several big-name players over the last decade, who are overjoyed as they depart for their next journey.

For example, former St. Louis hurler Jack Flaherty was traded at the 2023 trade deadline after showing signs of regression. However, he is now on the front line with the Los Angeles Dodgers and is expected to sign a significant, multi-year deal this winter.

Another player recently traded from the Cardinals is also having success with the Dodgers and could be an integral part of their quest for the World Series this postseason.

“The Dodgers have been trying to acquire (Tommy) Edman for years, and they finally achieved their goal in a three-way trade with the Cardinals and (Chicago) White Sox before this year's trade deadline,” MLB.com's Juan Toribio wrote on Friday during the discussion Every team's secret weapon for the playoffs.

The utility man didn't pitch a single inning for the Cardinals in 2024 as he was slow to recover from offseason wrist surgery, but has performed exceptionally well with Los Angeles since returning to the field – batting .237 with 12 extra bases Hits, including six home runs, 20 RBIs and an OPS of .711 in 37 games played.

“Edman, a switch-hitter, brings a different look to the Dodgers,” Toribio continued. “He puts contact first, not power, even though he hit four home runs in two games earlier this season. Although all of the stars at the top of the lineup draw attention, Edman can play a big role for the Dodgers in October, especially given his defensive versatility.

It's mind-boggling to think that the Cardinals traded a versatile and talented young star like Edman for 31-year-old starting pitcher Erick Fedde, who has just one solid season under his belt in his seven-year career.

St. Louis traded for Fedde as it appeared to be struggling. Unfortunately, this did not happen and the franchise is now committed to rebuilding. The loss of Edman will likely be another blot on the legacy of Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak.

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