Overview
- ESPN reported buyout talks with Anthony Rendon, creating a third-base vacancy that has linked the Angels to Nolan Arenado.
- ESPN’s Buster Olney said it seems inevitable the Cardinals will trade or release Arenado before the 2026 season.
- Analysts, including Nightengale, indicate St. Louis may need to absorb a large portion of the contract to secure a meaningful prospect return.
- Arenado is reported to have two years remaining on his deal with a full no-trade clause, limiting the Cardinals’ leverage.
- Arenado’s 2025 line reflected a sharp downturn at the plate, including a .237 average, 12 home runs, and a .377 slugging percentage.