The most frustrating misconceptions drawn from the Cardinals' decision to deal outfielder Tommy Pham to the Rays at this season's trade deadline stemmed from assumptions that the move was made for personal reasons instead of business ones.
He was struggling at the time of the trade. Outside intrigue remained, thanks to his breakout 2017 season. Multiple Cardinals outfield prospects who had checked every minor-league box were knocking on the major-league door. Pham's contract, among his major league outfield peers, was the easiest to move. (Remember, Dexter Fowler's trade value was shot, and he has a full no-trade clause.