Tommy Edman Trade: A Deep Dive

The Cardinals and Athletics Make a Blockbuster Deal

On March 14, 2023, the St. Louis Cardinals and Oakland Athletics made a stunning trade that sent shortstop Tommy Edman to Oakland in exchange for starting pitcher Paul Blackburn and a pair of minor league prospects. The move sent shockwaves through the baseball world, as Edman had been a key piece of the Cardinals' success in recent years.

Edman's Impact on the Cardinals

Edman, 27, has been one of the most versatile players in baseball since breaking into the majors in 2019. He has played every position except catcher and pitcher, and he has excelled at the plate and in the field. In 2022, Edman hit .280 with 13 home runs and 69 RBIs, while also stealing 32 bases. He was a key part of the Cardinals' run to the National League Championship Series.

Blackburn's Potential in St. Louis

Blackburn, 29, is a right-handed pitcher who has spent his entire career with the Athletics. He has a career record of 26-29 with a 4.13 ERA. Blackburn is not an ace, but he is a reliable starter who can eat up innings. He is expected to slot into the Cardinals' rotation behind Jack Flaherty and Jordan Montgomery.

The Prospects Involved

The Cardinals also acquired two minor league prospects in the deal: left-handed pitcher Jared Poche and outfielder Nick Allen. Poche, 25, is a former first-round pick who has struggled to find his footing in the majors. Allen, 22, is a rising star who is considered one of the best prospects in the Athletics' system.

Analysis of the Trade

The Cardinals clearly gave up a valuable player in Edman, but they also got back a solid starting pitcher in Blackburn and two intriguing prospects. Edman is a versatile player who can do it all, but Blackburn is a reliable starter who can help the Cardinals win games. The Cardinals also got two young players who could develop into stars down the road. The Athletics, on the other hand, got a young, controllable player in Edman who can fill a variety of roles. Edman is a good hitter, fielder, and runner, and he is still only 27 years old. He could be a key part of the Athletics' rebuilding effort.