After missing the playoffs for a second straight year, the St. Louis Cardinals are opting to part ways with three players. General manager John Mozeliak confirmed on Thursday to the *St. Louis Post-Dispatch* that the team will not be exercising 2025 options for pitchers Kyle Gibson, Lance Lynn, or Keynan Middleton. Mozeliak noted that this decision will allow the Cardinals “maximum flexibility” as they embark on a winter “reset.”
With Mozeliak planning to retire after the 2025 season, the Cardinals are beginning their rebuild early. Katie Woo of *The Athletic* initially reported that St. Louis was unlikely to retain Lynn on a one-year, $11 million option or Middleton on a one-year, $6 million deal. While there was speculation that Gibson might stay for $12 million if either Miles Mikolas or Steven Matz were traded, the team opted for a $1 million buyout, sending all three pitchers into free agency.
The Cardinals are also trimming payroll ahead of an intriguing offseason, which includes informing veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt that he won’t be re-signed. The futures of other key players like Sonny Gray, Nolan Arenado, Willson Contreras, and Ryan Helsley with the Cardinals remain uncertain.
“We have an understanding [of next year’s payroll],” Mozeliak said, “but there are still some uncertainties around revenue flows.” He added that the team’s strategy would involve creating opportunities for younger players.
With the World Series now over, the Cardinals have five days to finalize their 2025 club options. St. Louis is expected to be active this winter, focusing on rebuilding the farm system over pursuing major signings. Mozeliak will begin laying out the Cardinals’ rebuild plans next week at the general manager meetings in San Antonio, Texas.
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