The St. Louis Cardinals have been involved in trade rumors for a while, with Nolan Arenado often at the center of the speculation. With the team hovering around a .500 record and featuring a younger roster, many believe Arenado could be moved before the trade deadline. The rumors intensified recently when Arenado was a late scratch from the lineup against the Pittsburgh Pirates, though the team clarified it was due to back spasms.
“Per the Cardinals, Arenado was scratched late with back spasms,” reported Jim Hayes of FanDuel Sports Network on X (formerly Twitter).
Roughly a week ago, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale mentioned the possibility of the Los Angeles Dodgers exploring a trade for Arenado, though they have yet to make any moves as they hope Max Muncy rebounds from his early-season struggles.
“Meanwhile, they still are trying to trade All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado. The Los Angeles Dodgers have yet to express interest while still hoping that third baseman Max Muncy escapes his early-season struggles,” Nightengale noted.
Arenado does hold a full no-trade clause in his contract, which gives him control over where he could be dealt. He’s reportedly open to waiving the clause for certain teams, making his situation one to watch as the season unfolds.
What will the Cardinals do with Nolan Arenado?
If the Cardinals are hovering around a .500 record by the trade deadline, it’s unlikely that President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak will move Nolan Arenado, according to Katie Woo of The Athletic.
“I believe Arenado’s future largely depends on how the team performs in the coming months,” Woo said.
Should the Cardinals decide to explore a trade, ESPN’s David Schoenfield notes that their best strategy might be to absorb part of Arenado’s contract to facilitate a deal.
“Would any team want him right now? He’s owed $32 million this season, $27 million in 2026, and $15 million in 2027, which adds some complexity,” Schoenfield wrote. “However, he’s off to a strong start — showing great plate discipline and hitting for average — which could generate interest, especially from teams in need of a third base upgrade.”
Currently sitting at 18-19 and third in the NL Central, the Cardinals seem likely to be around the .500 mark later in the year. If contenders see Arenado as a valuable addition, it’s likely St. Louis will receive plenty of inquiries.