The Colorado Rockies had a tough season in 2013 and heading into the offseason the team was mentioned in rumors about possibly trading star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and the St. Louis Cardinals were looked at as a team where it could happen, but now that they signed Jhonny Peralta, could the New York Mets be the main partner for Colorado?
Reports from a couple weeks ago said that the Cardinals and Rockies would have major discussions about Tulowitzki, as St. Louis wanted to upgrade the position offensively from Pete Kozma, but after signing Peralta, it's likely that the Rockies will either hold onto the shortstop or look for another deal elsewhere. According to SI.com, the Mets could be a possibility, although they likely would have to give up some solid prospects in return and that could be the issue that holds up a deal. The Rockies were reportedly interested in Shelby Miller or Lance Lynn, meaning the Mets may have to give up a big name, possibly someone alike Zack Wheeler and after losing Matt Harvey that could be something the team is unwilling to do.
The Cardinals wanted to upgrade the position and now they have done that and Tulowitzki will continue to be an intriguing trade target despite the fact that the owner of the team said he would not be traded. Tulowitzki has a huge deal with seven years and $134 million on it and despite being injured last season, he hit .312 with 25 home runs and over 80 RBIs and that type of production is something many teams will want.
The biggest issue in hanging up the Cardinals trade is Peralta getting a deal for four years and over $50 million and many players came out against the deal, as the shortstop was suspended for PED use. Peralta moves from the Tigers, who picked up Jose Iglesias during the season in a trade with the Red Sox and now the team will see if any other deals materialize. The Cardinals also traded away David Freese and they could continue making moves as the offseason wears on.
The Cardinals desperately wanted to upgrade the position and now they get a player that hit 303 with 11 home runs and 55 RBIs in over 100 games and replaces Kozma, who barely hit in the postseason. The Tigers made big moves of their own with a trade of Prince Fielder for Ian Kinsler and now one of their primary players is off to a new team.
"We are pleased to announce that Jhonny has agreed to terms and I know he is equally excited to be joining the Cardinals," general manager John Mozeliak said in a statement. "Jhonny is among the game's top offensive shortstops, he's a steady defender and he has experience playing for a contender. He gives us proven veteran experience and brings balance and versatility to our everyday lineup. "
