Cardinals Send Reliever Steven Matz to Boston for 1B Blaze Jordan
The Cardinals didn’t just lose a pitcher on Wednesday — they watched a veteran reinvent himself and quietly walk out the door with a carry-on in hand. With the MLB trade deadline looming, Steven Matz saw the writing on the wall. Instead of boarding the team flight to San Diego, he made alternate plans — and good thing he did. By late Wednesday night, the lefty was traded to the Boston Red Sox in a deal that sent minor league first baseman Blaze Jordan to St. Louis.
It’s another move in what’s becoming a clear sell-off by the Cardinals. Earlier in the day, they moved two-time All-Star closer Ryan Helsley to the Mets. Then came the news that Matz — one of the Cardinals’ most flexible and effective arms in 2025 — was also on his way out.
Matz may not have made headlines this season, but his impact was undeniable. The 34-year-old southpaw was 5-2 with a 3.44 ERA over 32 appearances. Whether it was in long relief, as a lefty specialist, or spot starting, Matz got it done. And when he started? He was lights out — just a 1.00 ERA and 11 strikeouts in nine innings.
Nagging Injuries Derails Steven Matz’ Career as a Starter
That performance was a far cry from earlier in his Cardinals tenure, which was marred by injuries and inconsistency. Since signing a four-year, $44 million deal in 2022, Matz has battled elbow and knee problems, struggled with high ERAs, and even lost his place in the rotation. But 2025 has been different — and the Red Sox noticed.
Matz himself admitted he still dreams of being a starter again, even as he’s excelled in multiple bullpen roles. “That’s definitely a goal,” he told reporters. “But I think knowing that I can do both now is definitely something.”
Fire Sale Yields Blaze Jordan
And the Cardinals? They just added an intriguing power bat in Blaze Jordan, who was originally drafted by Boston in 2020 under — wait for it — Chaim Bloom, who just happens to be taking over the Cardinals’ front office in 2025. Connect the dots.
Manager Oliver Marmol praised Matz’s professionalism and willingness to adapt. “He’s done everything we’ve asked,” Marmol said. “Spot starts, long relief, one inning, two innings — he’s handled it all.”
After an early-season surge that included a sparkling 1.80 ERA in April, a steady May, and a bounce-back July, Matz exits St. Louis on a high note. He’s healthy, effective, and once again drawing attention for all the right reasons.
Now it’s Boston’s turn to see if he can turn a playoff push into something even bigger — from versatile weapon to potential postseason starter.
