St. Louis Cardinals Designate Erick Fedde for Assignment Amid Struggles

The St. Louis Cardinals have officially designated right-handed pitcher Erick Fedde for assignment, as announced on July 23, 2025. This decision comes as the team seeks to recalibrate its roster in light of Fedde’s inconsistent performance this season. Fedde, a former first-round draft pick who once showed promise with the Washington Nationals, struggled significantly in his time with the Cardinals, posting a disappointing 5.73 ERA over his recent outings.

Fedde was initially acquired by the Cardinals after a successful stint in the Korea Baseball Organization, where he showcased his ability with an MVP-winning season. Following a two-year, $15 million contract with the Chicago White Sox, he had a respectable 3.11 ERA in 21 starts for them before being traded to St. Louis. However, his tenure with the Cardinals has been marked by notable regression.

As the season progressed, Fedde's performance deteriorated, particularly in the latter months, where he allowed an alarming 26 runs in just 17.2 innings over his last five starts. According to MLB.com's John Denton, Fedde's strikeout rate has plummeted while his walk rate has risen, showing a disturbing trend for a pitcher expected to be a key rotation member.

The Cardinals, who expressed a desire to focus on player development, are now looking to clear a permanent rotation spot for their promising prospect, Michael McGreevy. Drafted in 2021, McGreevy has shown potential, with a 3.49 ERA in his limited MLB appearances and a significantly low walk rate, making him a candidate for increased responsibility on the mound.

In light of Fedde's struggles, the Cardinals now face a decision on how to proceed. They have five days to trade him; however, with the decline in his performance and remaining salary of approximately $2.7 million, it remains uncertain if any team will be willing to take on his contract. If no trade materializes, the likelihood of Fedde being released is high, allowing him to sign with any team at a lower cost.

Experts have noted that although Fedde exhibited flashes of brilliance earlier in the season, his inability to maintain that level of performance raises significant concerns about his future in Major League Baseball. Dr. Michael Thompson, a sports psychologist at the University of Southern California, comments, "Fedde's recent struggles may stem from the pressure of expectations, especially after his successful stint overseas. Mental fortitude is crucial, and it seems he has not been able to cope with the demands of the MLB environment."

The Cardinals are now at a crossroads, as they must balance their immediate roster needs with the long-term goal of developing young talent. As they navigate this challenging situation, the implications of their decisions regarding Fedde will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Should they opt to release him, it may signal a shift in their approach to roster management, emphasizing youth over experience in an effort to rebuild for the future.

As the trade deadline approaches, the fate of Erick Fedde remains uncertain, but it is clear that the Cardinals must act swiftly to address the needs of their pitching staff while considering the player’s career trajectory moving forward. The outcome of this situation will likely influence the Cardinals' strategic direction as they continue to seek success in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.