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Cardinals Intensify Offseason Trade Push for Nolan Arenado

Following his right shoulder strain, the team under new baseball-operations president Chaim Bloom is weighing aggressive moves to clear payroll by opening roster space.

Overview

  • The Cardinals have pursued trading Nolan Arenado since last offseason but his full no-trade clause and heavily front-loaded eight-year, $260 million contract have stalled negotiations.
  • Arenado was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right shoulder strain on August 1 and will begin a rehab assignment this week in Jupiter, Fla.
  • The eight-time All-Star’s offensive metrics dipped to career lows this season with a .235 batting average, .294 on-base percentage, .366 slugging percentage and .660 OPS.
  • Under Chaim Bloom’s leadership, St. Louis is prepared to absorb a significant portion of Arenado’s remaining salary to offload his contract and create opportunities for younger prospects.
  • Outfielder Lars Nootbaar, who has one year of club control remaining and less defensive versatility than his peers, is also a leading candidate to be moved this offseason.