John Mozeliak’s first official move of the Cardinals’ offseason is as weak as it gets.

St. Louis Cardinals saw a loaded Los Angeles Dodgers roster win the first World Series of many, thanks to Shohei Ohtani’s long-term contract (and deferred salary), and decided not to challenge them.

John Mozeliak, entering his final winter in charge of Cardinals baseball operations, has already hinted that would be it. In theory, fans shouldn’t be surprised by the Cards’ direction – this team is in a higher payroll position than their owners would like, and the results on the field have been lackluster.

“We’ve always been aggressive in the past looking at free agency and how we can improve our club, and we’ve already stated that we’re going to take a step back this offseason,” Mozeliak told FOX 2 Sports Director Martin Kilcoyne. . “We’re certainly excited about the squad we potentially have, but it’s different in terms of preparation. I’m sitting here talking to you. We’ll be in CEO meetings in a week, and usually what I’m working towards is very different from what I’m currently working on.”

For more news and rumors, check out the work of MLB insider Robert Murray. Baseball Insiders Podcastsubscribe to Moonshotour weekly MLB newsletter, and join the discord to get the latest information leading up to the MLB offseason.

Mozeliak wasn’t lying when he said he took the proverbial step back. It took St. Louis less than a day into MLB free agency to make it big. unexpected move and salary reduction. The Cardinals chose not to pick up the options of Lance Lynn, Keiynan Middleton and Kyle Gibson. All three will be free agents and will receive a $1 million buyout.

Lynn had an $11 million club option and is having one of his best seasons in years as he had a 3.84 ERA over 117 innings. Gibson had a $12 million club option and a 4.24 ERA to boot. Both were key players in St. Louis’ rotational repair plan last winter. Middleton, meanwhile, had a $6 million option and did not pitch in 2024. All three could return, but Lynn will likely earn more elsewhere. Gibson provided little content. Middleton could return, and if he can pitch like he used to in 2025, he would be a great asset to any team in need of bullpen help.

By eliminating all three options, St. Louis saved nearly $30 million. That’s a lot of money, but given the Cards’ intent to cut payroll, I’d be surprised. if a lot is reinvested in the field product.