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The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly considering trading their veteran third baseman, Nolan Arenado, as part of a larger rebuilding effort. According to multiple sources, the Cardinals aim to shed payroll and focus on younger talent. However, while Arenado’s move to a contending team is possible, there are significant obstacles to overcome before any deal can be finalized.
Arenado’s No-Trade Clause and Contract
One of the biggest hurdles to trading Arenado is his no-trade clause. Arenado, an eight-time All-Star and one of the best defensive third basemen in MLB history, has made it clear that he would only waive his clause to join a competitive, contending team. He has even expressed a willingness to move to first base if it enhances his fit with a potential suitor.
Another major consideration is Arenado’s hefty contract. The third baseman is under contract through 2027 and is owed $74 million. Any team interested in acquiring Arenado would likely need to absorb a significant portion of this financial commitment. For the Cardinals, who are looking to reduce payroll, this stipulation narrows the pool of potential trade partners.
The Cardinals’ Rebuilding Strategy
The Cardinals are not just focused on Arenado; they are reportedly exploring trade options for catcher Wilson Contreras, as well as pitchers Sonny Gray, Steven Matz, and Ryan Helsley. These players are slated to make a combined $63.6 million in 2025, further emphasizing the team’s goal of financial flexibility.
While Contreras and Gray have expressed interest in returning to St. Louis, the Cardinals appear determined to pivot toward a rebuild. Their willingness to part with key veterans signals a clear shift in strategy after a disappointing 2024 season.
Potential Contenders for Arenado
Several teams are rumored to be interested in Arenado, many of which are also pursuing San Diego Padres superstar Juan Soto. The New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers are among the frontrunners. Should Soto sign elsewhere, teams like the Yankees and Red Sox could turn their attention to Arenado as a Plan B.
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Interestingly, the Yankees’ need for a first baseman aligns well with Arenado’s reported flexibility to change positions. The Dodgers, another perennial contender, have long been linked to Arenado, given their competitive window and history of blockbuster trades.
How the Market Could Shape Arenado’s Fate
Arenado’s trade value may hinge on the movements of other key players. Alex Bregman, a free agent third baseman, is expected to command a contract similar to Arenado’s. If Bregman signs with a team other than the Houston Astros, it could set the stage for Arenado’s market.
Other third-base options, such as Milwaukee Brewers shortstop-turned-third-baseman Willy Adames and Philadelphia Phillies infielder Alec Bohm, could also influence the trade market. Should these players find new homes, contenders left without a third base solution may be forced to make a stronger push for Arenado.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Offseason for St. Louis
The Cardinals’ willingness to trade Arenado signals a significant turning point for the franchise. While moving the eight-time Gold Glove winner won’t be easy, the combination of payroll relief and potential young talent could make it worthwhile for St. Louis.
For Arenado, the chance to join a contending team might outweigh the comforts of his no-trade clause. As the offseason progresses and other dominoes fall in the third-base market, the picture will become clearer. Until then, all eyes remain on St. Louis and one of baseball’s most intriguing trade possibilities.
