Despite finishing the season with a winning record of 83-79, the St. Louis Cardinals missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year. As they turn their attention to 2025, the organization is planning extensive changes.
According to Derrick Goold of the *St. Louis Post-Dispatch*, St. Louis has opted not to exercise 2025 options for Lance Lynn, Kyle Gibson, and Kenyan Middleton, who will each receive a $1 million buyout. President of Baseball Operations, Jon Mozeliak, confirmed the decision was made to provide the Cardinals with “maximum flexibility.”
Lynn joined the Cardinals on a one-year deal in the 2024 offseason, finishing with a 7-4 record, a 3.84 ERA, and a 109/44 K/BB ratio. While his stats were solid for a back-end starter, they didn’t stand out, though they marked a notable improvement from his 2023 season. Despite his reliable performance, St. Louis decided not to extend his “reunion tour” past one season.
Similarly, Gibson signed during the 2024 offseason with hopes of strengthening the rotation. He recorded an 8-8 record, a 4.24 ERA, and a 151/68 K/BB ratio, but, like Lynn, proved more suited to a back-end role as he enters his age-37 season. Now, both pitchers are set to explore their next opportunities elsewhere.
The Cardinals ended the season ranked 16th in ERA at 4.04, held opponents to a .249 batting average (23rd overall), and finished with 1,308 strikeouts, the league’s fourth-lowest total. They did, however, rank seventh in limiting walks with 454. These stats highlight the Cardinals’ pressing need for an upgrade in pitching.
By declining these three options, St. Louis has cleared room in its rotation, potentially positioning them to pursue top free-agent starters. With holes to fill, the Cardinals’ pitching staff is set for a significant transformation heading into 2025.
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