What's Happening?
The St. Louis Cardinals are experiencing significant organizational changes following their third consecutive season missing the playoffs. Despite retaining manager Oli Marmol for the 2026 season, the team
is parting ways with Joe McEwing, a special assistant to the president of baseball operations, John Mozeliak. McEwing, who previously served as the Cardinals' bench coach in 2023, has a long coaching career starting in 2008 with the Chicago White Sox. The Cardinals are also preparing for life without Mozeliak, who is stepping down after 18 seasons. Chaim Bloom, former general manager of the Boston Red Sox, will take over the role. The team faces uncertainty regarding its roster, with top veterans like Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado involved in trade rumors. The Cardinals are looking to make changes to end their playoff drought, as they watched division rivals advance to the postseason.
Why It's Important?
The departure of Joe McEwing and the transition from John Mozeliak to Chaim Bloom marks a pivotal moment for the St. Louis Cardinals. These changes could signal a shift in strategy as the team seeks to rebuild and become competitive again. The Cardinals' decision to retain manager Oli Marmol suggests a commitment to stability in leadership, despite recent performance challenges. The potential trades involving key players like Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado could reshape the team's roster and impact its competitiveness in the National League. As the Cardinals aim to break their playoff drought, these organizational changes could influence their approach to player development and acquisition strategies.
What's Next?
With Chaim Bloom stepping in as the new president of baseball operations, the Cardinals may enter a rebuilding phase, focusing on long-term development and strategic acquisitions. The team will likely evaluate its roster and consider trades to improve its chances of returning to the playoffs. The upcoming offseason will be crucial for the Cardinals as they navigate these changes and aim to strengthen their lineup. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Bloom's leadership influences the team's direction and whether the Cardinals can regain their competitive edge in the league.