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Cardinals Signal Soft Rebuild Under Chaim Bloom, Entertain Trades for Arenado, Gray and Donovan

Reporting points to a development-first pivot, with payroll relief plus roster depth shaping St. Louis' trade calculus.

Overview

  • Athletic reporting indicates the club will listen on veterans, with Nolan Arenado and Sonny Gray widely expected to be moved.
  • Brendan Donovan, a 2025 All-Star, is being discussed as a trade candidate despite strong internal regard for his versatility.
  • Donovan missed the stretch run with a groin issue, underwent sports hernia repair in October, and is expected to be ready for spring training.
  • The surplus of left-handed hitters is a stated factor, with top prospect JJ Wetherholt mentioned as a potential internal replacement if Donovan is dealt.
  • Contract context features Arenado owed $16 million in 2026 and $15 million in 2027, Gray at $35 million in 2026 with a $30 million club option for 2027, and Donovan under team control through 2027.