3 Replacements for Marcell Ozuna if Cardinals Don't Want to Offer 5-Year Deal
By Mark Powell
The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly considering offering Marcell Ozuna a five-year deal, which he's seeking in free agency. They are not alone for Ozuna's services, however, and there's a good chance they could lose him. If St. Louis can't sign Ozuna this offseason, there are plenty of other options they could explore.
3. Mookie Betts
Sure, this one is idealistic, but Boston is motivated to trade Mookie as he's entering the final year of his contract. The acquisition of a yearly MVP candidate would make St. Louis among the favorites to win the National League for years to come, especially if they can lock him up long-term.
2. Nicholas Castellanos
A division rival for all of half a season, this move would be extra sweet given the Cards would be stealing away an outfield option from the Cubs. Castellanos isn't the defender Ozuna is, but his prowess at the dish more than makes up for that.
1. Cameron Maybin
Maybin doesn't have the name recognition of Betts or Castellanos, but he really came on for the Yankees last season. Should he continue to show the same level of improvement at the plate, Maybin can play just about anywhere in the outfield. He'd be a great short-term replacement for Ozuna.