Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

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.

DENVER, COLORADO - JULY 22: Nolan Arenado #28 of the St. Louis Cardinals hits into a fourth inning run-scoring ground out against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on July 22, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 06: Lars Nootbaar #21 of the St. Louis Cardinals reacts after hitting an RBI double against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the ninth inning at Dodger Stadium on August 06, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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.