With the MLB trade deadline approaching, the St. Louis Cardinals are facing tough decisions as their performance has faltered, culminating in a 4-10 record through June. Speculation surrounds star Nolan Arenado, whose recent slump could prompt the team to trade him for fresh prospects and a change of scenery.

Despite a .283 career batting average, Arenado's current season is disappointing, with a .244 average, just eight home runs, and a career-low OPS of .694. However, his elite defensive skills may still entice contenders. Other potential trade candidates include Ryan Helsley and Sonny Gray, as the Cardinals look to reshape their roster for the future.

In a strategic move, the St. Louis Cardinals are giving Lars Nootbaar a break after a rough stretch at the plate, where he went 1-for-19 over his last five games. Nolan Gorman will step in as the starting left fielder against the Toronto Blue Jays, and Masyn Winn moves into the leadoff position. Iván Herrera, who recently hit a crucial three-run homer, will bat second. On the mound, Miles Mikolas faces Chris Bassitt in a critical matchup as the Cardinals aim to even the series following a disappointing extra-inning loss.

The St. Louis Cardinals have surprised many this season, finding themselves six games above .500 and even securing a recent series victory over the illustrious Los Angeles Dodgers. With the trade deadline looming, speculation is rife about potential moves, particularly involving pitchers Sonny Gray, Miles Mikolas, and Erick Fedde, all of whom have started strong. Despite entering the season with low expectations, the Cardinals have emerged as a competitive force within the NL Central, led by Gray's impressive 7-1 record and 3.35 ERA, as well as strong performances from the bullpen.

Manager Oliver Marmol has effectively navigated early concerns about the team's bullpen, demonstrating their capability to compete at a high level. Gray's standout performance in the shutout against the Dodgers, showcasing his ability to deliver when it matters, underscores the team's potential. As the trade deadline approaches, the question remains: can the Cardinals maintain their momentum?

As June sets in, several MLB players are making waves, providing valuable insights for your fantasy roster. Key upgrades include Carlos Rodon of the New York Yankees, who has bounced back with a 1.27 ERA in his last nine starts after a rocky beginning. Hunter Goodman of the Colorado Rockies is also turning heads with consistent scores against the Marlins. Meanwhile, Ryan O'Hearn from the Baltimore Orioles has been soaring with a .973 OPS over the last 21 days. Taylor Ward of the Los Angeles Angels is emerging as a power hitter with 17 home runs this season, hitting eight in recent weeks.

On the flip side, Randy Arozarena of the Seattle Mariners and Freddy Peralta of the Milwaukee Brewers are trending downwards, raising concerns for their fantasy viability. Arozarena is struggling with a .539 OPS lately, while Peralta's recent ERA has climbed to 4.21. However, players like Jackson Chourio from the Milwaukee Brewers and Sonny Gray of the St. Louis Cardinals remain steady holds, showing potential for a strong second half of the season.

The St. Louis Cardinals are contemplating a strategic shift in their pitching rotation, aiming to improve performance as they face an intense schedule. MLB.com writer John Denton advocates for Steven Matz's return to a full-time starting role, citing the need for stability as the team approaches 29 games in 30 days. Matz has shown promise this season, posting a 3-1 record and a 2.16 ERA in 16 appearances, which could help alleviate the strain on veteran pitchers like Miles Mikolas and Sonny Gray.

Manager Oliver Marmol acknowledges Matz's versatility this season, where he has performed effectively both as a starter and out of the bullpen. With the Cardinals trailing the Cubs in the NL Central, integrating Matz as a consistent starter could be key to their playoff aspirations.