This winter, there have been a number of MLB rumors about the St. Louis Cardinals that suggest the team is finally adopting a long-term strategy by retooling its farm system and squad. It looks like at least one big deal is in the works this offseason, as the front staff is united in its direction.
The St. Louis Cardinals have been at the center of numerous MLB rumors this offseason, all suggesting the team is embracing a long-term strategy focused on retooling its roster and farm system. With the front office aligned in this approach, a major blockbuster trade seems inevitable in the months ahead.
Arenado, approaching his 34th birthday in April, is coming off the most challenging season of his career. He recorded his lowest full-season home run total since his rookie year in 2013, posted an OPS below .800 for the second straight year, and set a career-low slugging percentage of .394.
The 10-time Gold Glove Award winner is no longer the dominant defender he once was at third base. At 33, Arenado ranked in the 86th percentile for Fielding Run Value according to Baseball Savant, marking his second straight season below the 90th percentile. With the Cardinals embarking on a multi-year rebuild, Arenado no longer appears to have a place in their plans.
Katie Woo of The Athletic reports a “growing sense” across MLB that Nolan Arenado is likely to be traded this offseason, with sufficient interest from multiple teams to make a deal feasible. However, such a trade is not expected to materialize until well after the initial wave of MLB free agency.
Nolan Arenado Contract (via Spotrac):
- 2025: $21 million
- 2026: $16 million
- 2027: $15 million
- Deferred Salary (2032–2041): $3 million annually
Trade discussions for Nolan Arenado are expected to gain momentum at the MLB Winter Meetings, coinciding with the market movement of free-agent third basemen like Alex Bregman and Willy Adames. Once the top bats are signed, teams are likely to shift their attention to Arenado.
A key factor boosting Arenado’s trade appeal is his reported willingness to transition to first base. This flexibility could attract teams with a need at first base or those who see the position as a way to prolong his career. While trading Arenado would mark the end of an era for the Cardinals, it would serve as the catalyst for a much-needed rebuild.
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