Breaking: Done Deal!!!! Cardinals” Next Big Trade Officially Confirmed Before Deadline

Breaking: Done Deal!!!! Cardinals” Next Big Trade Officially Confirmed Before Deadline

Here’s a **breaking news-style deep dive** into the **St. Louis Cardinals’ confirmed blockbuster trade** before the 2025 MLB trade deadline:

In a high-stakes deadline-day move, the **St. Louis Cardinals have officially acquired veteran right-hander Merrill Kelly** from the **Arizona Diamondbacks**. This addition is seen as a major step in bolstering St. Louis’ playoff rotation ahead of the final stretch.

* Kelly brings proven postseason experience and consistent performance, including a 3.78 ERA over more than 800 MLB innings and a strong World Series run in 2023. ([Yardbarker][2])
* With Kelly signed through at least 2026, the Cardinals now have a reliable No. 2 starter behind Sonny Gray to anchor their rotation for the postseason push. ([clutchpoints.com][1])
The Cardinals reportedly sent a **top-three prospect**, **Quinn Mathews**, along with two high-upside youngsters—**infielder Thomas Saggese** and **power-hitting outfielder Chase Davis**—to Arizona. ([clutchpoints.com][1])
This deal reflects St. Louis’s willingness to invest high-upside talent for immediate impact.

President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak emphasized that the franchise is open to “hard decisions” if the team remains in playoff contention. Ownership has pledged support for moves that enhance postseason potential.

**Farm system remains deep**: While Mathews, Saggese, and Davis represent talent, the club’s pipeline still features key names like Tink Hence, JJ Wetherholt, and Jimmy Crooks.

**Media Analysts**: Outlets had heavily predicted Kelly as the Cardinals’ top inbound trade, given Arizona’s willingness to move him. ([Yardbarker][2], [clutchpoints.com][1])
* **Fan Commentary**: Speculation built up around which reliever would arrive next; many expected the team to add bullpen depth closer to the deadline. ([Redbird Rants][3], [clutchpoints.com][1])

**Pending Moves**: Attention now turns to potential bullpen additions or additional midweek acquisitions before the roster freeze.

This bold move positions St. Louis as a serious contender in the National League. If they stay hot, Kelly could be a defining piece of a postseason run. Let me know if you’d like breakdowns of any follow-up moves or player performances tied to this deal!