Cardinals Predicted to Acquire Tigers Top Prospect in Blockbuster Trade
With the midway point of the MLB season nearly upon us, wild-card races are starting to heat up.
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Jim Bowden, a former MLB GM and current writer for The Athletic, recently unveiled potential trade deadline moves for all seven NL teams in the wild-card hunt.
As for the St. Louis Cardinals, Bowden predicted they would make a move for the future, acquiring Detroit Tigers No. 2 prospect Kevin McGonigle for third baseman Nolan Arenado, closer Ryan Helsley and cash considerations.
"The Cardinals have stuck around in the wild-card race, but this would be a deal for the future. They would acquire McGonigle, an elite prospect who can flat-out hit and can play any infield position."
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MLB pipeline has McGonigle - who was drafted 37th overall by Detroit in 2023 - listed as their No. 22 prospect and climbing. The 20-year old is enjoying his best season in Detroit's farm system, slashing .361/.454/.647 with five home runs and 28 RBIs in 32 games across Single-A and High-A ball.
Tigers prospect Kevin McGonigle during spring training© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
A natural middle-infielder, McGonigle is flexible defensively, leading Bowden to suggest "The Cardinals could play McGonigle at second base or third base long term — wherever they feel he fits best."
"The only reason the Tigers would consider making this deal is if they felt Arenado would be a difference-maker at third base, both offensively and defensively. More importantly, they'd add Helsley, an impact closer to go along with high-leverage relievers Will Vest and Tommy Kahnle — a strong trio, especially in the playoffs." Bowden wrote.
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However, a lot needs to happen for the Tigers and Cardinals to get this blockbuster trade done.
"Of course, to make this deal happen, Arenado would have to waive his no-trade clause and the Cardinals would have to pay down his contract significantly. But even if St. Louis had to pay the entire freight, it would be worth it to land McGonigle."
Bowden made well over 100 trades during his tenure as the GM of the Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals, perhaps none more significant than acquiring Ken Griffey Jr. from the Mariners for four players.
Related: Cardinals Escape With Win After Pete Crow-Armstrong Mental Blunder
Related: Cardinals Announce Interesting Roster Move in Midst of Cubs Series
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
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