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?