The St. Louis Cardinals appear headed for a pivotal offseason, with major changes expected after finishing 78–84 and missing the playoffs for the third straight year. With new president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom now at the helm, the organization is preparing for a reset once the World Series ends. As part of this roster shake-up, the Cardinals may consider trading several players—and fan-favorite outfielder Lars Nootbaar could be among those on the move.
Lars Nootbaar has earned a special place in the hearts of Cardinals fans with his energetic style of play and strong rapport with the crowd. But with St. Louis carrying an excess of left-handed bats, the team may be forced to make difficult roster decisions. At 28 years old, Nootbaar’s value and upside make him a compelling trade chip, and his name has already begun to surface in recent trade rumors.
One team reportedly showing interest in Nootbaar is the Kansas City Royals. After struggling offensively last season, the Royals could greatly benefit from his skill set. His mix of power, on-base ability, and defensive versatility would provide a major boost to their lineup. Adding a player with Nootbaar’s upside could energize a Kansas City team eager to improve and build toward long-term success.
Other Possible Destinations
Although the Royals are a notable fit, they likely won’t be the only team in the mix. As the offseason unfolds, additional contenders in need of outfield help could join the conversation. The Cardinals will have to evaluate every offer carefully, balancing short-term needs with their long-term vision.
What’s Next for St. Louis?
As the Cardinals confront this pivotal moment, the future of Lars Nootbaar—and potentially other key players—remains uncertain. Trading a fan favorite would spark significant debate among supporters and analysts. With the league landscape shifting, the decisions St. Louis makes this offseason will define not only their roster, but their identity for years to come.