St. Louis Cardinals legend Matt Holliday expressed skepticism about the possibility of Paul Goldschmidt rejoining the team, highlighting concerns over the club’s rebuilding status. Speaking on Cardinals Territory, Holliday pointed out that Goldschmidt, as well as Rhys Hoskins, might be reluctant to sign with the Cardinals because they are viewed as players seeking a spot on a World Series contender rather than a rebuilding squad. The focus on acquiring right-handed bats remains, but Holliday doubted if either player would see the Cardinals as an attractive destination at this point.
According to Holliday, Goldschmidt likely desires a role on a team that has a legitimate shot at winning the championship, rather than returning to St. Louis during a rebuild phase. Holliday also suggested Hoskins is probably aiming to find a team where he can have more consistent playing time and compete at a high level.
You know, I think obviously if no contenders are interested, I doubt Goldie is wanting to come back and sort of play on a rebuild,
Holliday said.
I’m guessing he’s looking for a role on a team that has a chance to win the World Series. I mean, we talk about Hoskins. That might be somebody that, my guess is he’s probably looking to play on a competitive team where he gets the at-bats more consistently.
Holliday further noted that the Cardinals may struggle to offer compelling reasons for either Goldschmidt or Hoskins to join, beyond the need to add a right-handed bat to the lineup. He emphasized that veteran players generally dislike platoon roles, especially on teams not positioned to contend, and predicted that St. Louis would likely need to overpay to attract either free agent.
So I think it’s an interesting situation unless you’re going to overpay, which doesn’t really seem to be in the cards for any of the free agents the Cardinals are looking at,
Holliday added.
I can’t see them overpaying to bring in somebody like Rhys Hoskins just to add a right-handed bat.
Cardinals Shift Strategy, Trade Brendan Donovan Amid Rebuild
The Cardinals have taken definitive steps toward rebuilding this offseason by trading away key players to clear salary and acquire prospects. After trading star third baseman Nolan Arenado to the Arizona Diamondbacks earlier in the offseason, St. Louis recently moved Brendan Donovan, who posted solid numbers last season including a .287 batting average and 10 home runs in 118 games.
Donovan was dealt to the Seattle Mariners in a three-team trade that involved the Tampa Bay Rays as well. In return, the Cardinals received striking new talent, including right-handed pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje, a highly regarded prospect, outfielders Tai Peete and Colton Ledbetter (both prospects), plus two Competitive Balance Round B Draft Picks for 2026. Meanwhile, the Rays acquired third baseman Ben Williamson from the Mariners.
Implications for Cardinals’ Future as Offseason Moves Continue
The resale of Donovan and Arenado signals a clear commitment by the Cardinals to prioritize long-term rebuilding over short-term success. By acquiring multiple prospects and draft picks, the organization appears focused on constructing a foundation that could support a more competitive team in upcoming seasons. However, with veterans like Goldschmidt and Hoskins hesitant to join a rebuilding club, the Cardinals face an uphill battle to bring in established talent without overextending their payroll.
This situation leaves uncertainty around how the Cardinals will address their need for right-handed bats, an area Bronk recently emphasized. Without persuading free agents motivated by postseason contention to join, St. Louis may need to rely heavily on internal development and young acquisitions to fill gaps in the lineup.
As the offseason progresses, the Cardinals must carefully balance their rebuilding moves with the desire to remain competitive enough to attract key players. The club’s approach over the next few months will be critical in shaping their trajectory toward contention or prolonged rebuilding.
Matt Holliday breaks down a list of available right-handed bats the Cardinals could use.
Maybe a Paul Goldschmidt reunion? 👀 pic.twitter.com/nSYXTvBRrw
— Cardinal Territory (@CardTerritory) February 6, 2026
