The benefits of a Tommy Edman extension for the St. Louis Cardinals
According to MLB Trade Rumors, the 27-year-old Edman is projected to make $4.3 million in 2023. He is coming off a season where he logged 6.4 bWAR in 577 at-bats, the third-highest mark for the Cardinals behind Arenado and Goldschmidt. In his second consecutive season where he saw action in 150-plus games, Edman set new career highs in homers (13), RBI (57), and stolen bases (32). He also upped his OPS+ season over season from 91 to 108.
Put all of that together and it’s clear that Edman’s value has never been higher. Throw in some of the numbers commanded this offseason by the big four free agent shortstops and it’s easy to see that Edman’s $4.3 million for next season is a bargain for the Cardinals, a team that has spent this offseason on upgrading at catcher (Willson Contreras) but in few other areas.
St. Louis could be proactive and assume that Edman will continue to play at a high level and offer a contract extension now that would take away any potential issues during arbitration. As somewhat of a comparison, back in 2019, the Braves offered Ozzie Albies a seven-year, $35 million extension. Now 25, Albies has responded with a Silver Slugger and All-Star Game selection helping the Braves win a World Series, but also just endured an injury-plagued season.
Edman’s extension would likely come at a much higher price than Albies. However, at 27, a five-year deal could be in the right area, allowing Edman another chance at a contract in his prime while the Cardinals would control two more years past his current free agent year. It could prove mutually beneficial for both sides.