Nolan Arenado was at the center of offseason rumors, with reports indicating the St. Louis Cardinals spent much of the winter exploring trade options for their star third baseman. However, dealing Arenado isn’t simple—his massive contract and no-trade clause make negotiations tricky. Reportedly, he approved trades to only six teams: the Padres, Dodgers, Angels, Mets, Red Sox, and Phillies. So far, none of those clubs have shown strong urgency to strike a deal, though that could change.
According to ESPN’s David Schoenfield, the Cardinals may still move Arenado in a major trade this season. “Arenado’s future remains uncertain after trade talks over the winter,” Schoenfield said. “With his hefty salary—$32 million this year, $27 million in 2026, and $15 million in 2027—it won’t be easy. But he’s started the season strong, walking more than striking out and hitting for average, which might drive up interest. Plenty of teams could use a third base upgrade.”
One possible suitor could be the Angels, who’ve exceeded expectations early on. The Padres and Dodgers are battling injuries and inconsistent infield play, while the Phillies are dealing with struggles from Alec Bohm. Arenado might also expand his list of trade-approved teams to include the Blue Jays, Yankees, or Astros, further increasing his market.
The St. Louis Cardinals appeared to signal the start of a rebuild this offseason, a move that will shape future decisions—particularly whether to trade closer Ryan Helsley. ESPN’s David Schoenfield recently predicted the Cardinals would move Helsley in a major trade during the season. With his contract ending after this year and Spotrac projecting him to land an $81 million deal in free agency, the Cardinals risk losing him for nothing.
“Helsley’s an easy trade candidate—an elite closer in a contract year,” Schoenfield said. “He’ll be in high demand if the Cardinals aren’t contenders.”
Given their likely struggles by the trade deadline, dealing Helsley would be a logical move. If they hold onto him, they could lose him in free agency without a return. Last year, the Marlins landed a big return for Tanner Scott, who was the top reliever available. Now, the Cardinals may be in a similar position, with Helsley as the premier closer on the market.
Top contenders like the Red Sox, Rangers, Dodgers, and others could all make strong trade partners. A deal involving Helsley would likely bring back a valuable package of top prospects. It’s shaping up to be one of the season’s key storylines, and it seems like only a matter of time before a trade happens.
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