(ST. LOUIS) – The Cardinals officially entered a new era Tuesday by sending established starter Sonny Gray to Boston, marking what appears to be the beginning of a significant roster overhaul under recently appointed president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom.
The transaction brought St. Louis two young arms—lefty Brandon Clarke and righty Richard Fitts—plus either a future player or monetary compensation. The Cardinals also included $20 million cash in the package heading to the Red Sox.
This represents the franchise’s most aggressive pivot toward youth development in recent memory, as the organization shifts away from its veteran-laden roster following three straight years without postseason baseball.
Pozo Returns on New Deal
In a separate roster development, the Cardinals have re-acquired backstop Yohel Pozo through a one-year agreement, reuniting with the reserve catcher less than a week after designating him for non-tender.
The Venezuelan veteran, 28, proved valuable in limited action during 2025, particularly when called upon in late-game situations. His clutch performances off the bench included seven RBIs as a substitute hitter, placing him near the top of baseball’s leaderboard in that specialized role. The organization honored him with its annual Darryl Kile Award, recognizing his character and contributions.
Pozo’s path to professional baseball involved navigating serious adversity, including homelessness, which added deeper meaning to his breakthrough campaign with St. Louis.
Additional Signings
The club also finalized agreements with two pitchers Monday:
- Right-hander Sem Robberse rejoined on a minor-league pact after his recent roster removal
- Right-hander Scott Blewett signed a minor-league contract that includes an invite to major-league camp
Pozo’s 2025 Performance
The catcher arrived via a minor-league signing last winter and broke camp with the big-league club when Iván Herrera required injured list placement due to knee issues in April. Though he originally debuted with Texas in 2021, Pozo found his groove in St. Louis, connecting for a home run in his first appearance wearing Cardinals colors.
He became a trusted reserve, accumulating six pinch hits including two doubles and a dramatic go-ahead homer against Chicago at Wrigley on July 5. Across 67 appearances, he compiled a .231 average with five homers, eight doubles, and 19 runs batted in.
His consistently upbeat attitude and composure in pressure situations resonated throughout the clubhouse, ultimately convincing management to bring him back for another season.
