Much of the attention surrounding the Cardinals’ offseason moves centered on the rebuilding of their rotation. Signings of Sonny Gray, Kyle Gibson, and Lance Lynn have yielded varying results. However, one of the team’s less-publicized transactions has also proven crucial for the 2024 season. The trade of infielder/outfielder Richie Palacios to the Rays for reliever Andrew Kittredge has been a beneficial swap for both teams. Tampa Bay has gained a .350 OBP and solid defense from Palacios, while the Cardinals have acquired one of the most reliable setup men in the National League. Despite Kittredge being a free agent at the end of the season, reports suggest the team plans to negotiate a new contract soon.
At 34, Kittredge is in his first full season post-2022 Tommy John surgery and has exhibited minimal signs of rust from his rehabilitation. He appeared in 11 2/3 innings for Tampa Bay late last season and has become one of the most frequently used relievers this year, with 66 appearances (tied for tenth in MLB) and 63 relief innings (tied for 33rd among 173 qualified relievers).
Kittredge has not only provided volume; his 33 holds lead the National League, trailing only Bryan Abreu of Houston for the MLB lead. He has posted a 2.86 ERA with above-average rates for strikeouts (23.5%) and walks (7.5%). Opponents have kept the ball on the ground at a 44.5% rate against him, slightly better than the league average.
There may be a chance of regression for Kittredge as he approaches his age-35 season. His rate statistics are solid but not exceptional, and he has benefited from a .257 batting average on balls in play, significantly below his career average. Statcast indicates he has below-average metrics in hard-hit rate (40.9%, 31st percentile), barrel rate (9.1%, 22nd percentile), and average exit velocity (89.5 mph, 32nd percentile).
Despite these metrics, Kittredge has managed to maintain effectiveness with mid-range metrics, though the increase in barrel rate this season is unusual. His chase rate, contact rate, and swinging-strike rate align with his career averages. Kittredge has lost some velocity off his sinker and slider compared to his peak in 2021, but even with potential regression, he appears capable of maintaining a mid-3.00 ERA with solid statistics. This version of Kittredge remains a valuable reliever.
Recent trends show limited multi-year deals for relievers aged 35 or older, particularly those who do not close games. Teams are cautious about committing to older players, especially given the volatility of relievers. The top recent contracts for setup men in this age group include Chris Martin’s two-year, 17.5 M M d e a l w i t h t h e R e d S o x s t a r t i n g a respectively. Kittredge’s more consistent track record could justify a two-year deal, speculatively between the Martin and McHugh figures.
If the Cardinals can retain Kittredge, they will solidify a strong late-inning bullpen for the 2025 season. Closer Ryan Helsley is under contract through 2025, and fellow setup men JoJo Romero and Ryan Fernandez are controlled through 2026 and 2029, respectively.
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