The case for not trading Paul DeJong

The Cardinals want to win in 2024, and DeJong may be their best option at shortstop next season

I’m not about to carve out a firm position on whether Paul DeJong should be traded. All such considerations are fluid and dependent upon the parameters of the specific deal. It may be in the team’s long-term interests to move him before the Aug. 1 deadline, but I also think there’s a compelling case to keep him in the fold for next season. 

In broad terms, DeJong is an established plus fielder at shortstop whose retooled swing has helped him return to being an above-average producer by positional standards. Those are hard to find, at least if you don’t already have one on your roster.