By Nate Hagerty | May 4, 2025
After months of watching him shine in Dodger blue, the St. Louis Cardinals have officially made things right — bringing back Gold Glove defender Tommy Edman in a bold and emotional reunion that’s sending shockwaves through the fanbase.
Traded last summer in a three-team deal that was supposed to push the Cardinals back into contention, Edman instead became a postseason hero for Los Angeles, earning NLCS MVP honors and playing a pivotal role in the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series run. Now, with a $74 million contract in hand and unfinished business in St. Louis, he’s back where he belongs.
“We made a mistake,” admitted Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak. “There are players you can replace and players you can’t. Tommy Edman is the latter.”
Edman, 29, had been a key part of the Cardinals’ identity since his MLB debut in 2019 — a switch-hitting spark plug with elite defensive versatility and clubhouse leadership. His departure left a noticeable void both on the field and in the dugout. And after seeing him rake in October — and start 2025 strong with a .294/.400/.588 slash line — the Cardinals acted decisively to correct course.
The deal to bring him back wasn’t cheap, but St. Louis understood the price of regret.
“It feels incredible to be back,” Edman said during his return press conference at Busch Stadium. “St. Louis is home to me. I loved my time in L.A., but the red jersey means something different.”
The Cardinals’ 2025 season has been rocky, hovering below .500 and searching for consistency in the lineup. Edman immediately injects speed, defense, and a veteran presence into the roster — not to mention the ability to play center field, second base, or shortstop at a Gold Glove level.
More than a reunion, this is a statement.
The Cardinals couldn’t afford to lose Tommy Edman. Now, they’ve made sure they won’t.
