Paul Goldschmidt

The move, in theory, will keep Contreras healthier as his contract continues

The move, in theory, could allow Contreras to focus on his offense

With Paul Goldschmidt hitting free agency, the Cardinals do have a hole at first base, but the assumption from many was that Jordan Walker would be making the move to that part of the infield. It appears instead that the 32-year-old Contreras will head to the not-so-hot corner, and this likely is at least in part an effort to keep him healthy after being limited to just 84 games with injuries in 2024. Contreras has enough offensive upside to be a quality fantasy first baseman, but losing catcher eligibility would obviously be a major blow going forward.