Cardinals Linked to Free Agent Trevor Rogers
St. Louis is connected to the 28-year-old pitcher as free agency opens ahead of an expected December lockout.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Baseball
The Athletic's Tim Britton, Johnny Flores Jr., and Chad Jennings connected the St. Louis Cardinals to free agent pitcher Trevor Rogers. Rogers revived his career over the last season-and-a-half with the Baltimore Orioles.
Why it matters
The Cardinals have a need in the starting rotation, and Rogers posted a 4.03 ERA in 30 starts in 2026 after a 1.81 ERA in 18 starts in 2025. Free agency is open with a lockout expected in December, shaping how quickly teams may move.
Rogers recorded a 157-to-39 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 169 2/3 innings in 2026, a 4.03 ERA across 30 starts. His 2025 season produced a 1.81 ERA across 109 2/3 innings in 18 starts, while his career ERA stands at 3.88 over 132 appearances.
The players
Trevor Rogers
Trevor Rogers is a 28-year-old left-handed pitcher who revived his career with the Baltimore Orioles over the last season-and-a-half.
The Athletic
The Athletic is a sports news publication known for its beat reporting and coverage of Major League Baseball free agency.
The details
The Athletic's Tim Britton, Johnny Flores Jr., and Chad Jennings connected the Cardinals to Rogers, who is 28 years old. A signing team should expect a number starting with a three moving forward, and The Athletic projects a four-year, $84 million contract.
Timeline
2025: Rogers posted a 1.81 ERA in 18 starts.
2026: Rogers posted a 4.03 ERA in 30 starts.
December 2026: A lockout is expected to begin.
Season Trajectory
Rogers' possible move to the Cardinals would shape St. Louis' starting rotation as teams race to sign pitchers before a lockout expected in December. The 2026-27 offseason is unfolding as clubs with rotation needs pursue free agents while the collective bargaining deadline approaches.
Rogers' signing would determine who fills a starting rotation spot in St. Louis or another club next season. A lockout starting in December could delay contract finalization for fantasy-relevant starters.
The takeaway
Teams seeking starting pitching are competing for limited free agents before a possible work stoppage, which may make early signings more valuable.
What happens next
A lockout is expected to begin in December 2026, which could affect when teams are able to finalize signings.
Further reading
Follow more Baseball coverage for context on the offseason market.
