The St. Louis Cardinals went into the offseason with a clear plan—find a trade partner for star third baseman Nolan Arenado and reshape the roster. But despite their efforts, a deal has yet to materialize, and it’s looking increasingly likely that Arenado will remain in St. Louis for the 2025 season.
Arenado’s Limited Trade List Complicates Matters
Arenado holds a no-trade clause, giving him control over where he could be dealt. He reportedly approved a move to six teams: the San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and Boston Red Sox.
The problem? None of those teams have stepped up with an offer compelling enough for the Cardinals to pull the trigger.
St. Louis had hoped to clear salary and create room for younger players, but the limited number of interested teams—combined with a lack of urgency on the trade market—has left them in an awkward position.
Cardinals Stuck in an Uncomfortable Situation
FanSided’s MLB insider Robert Murray didn’t hold back in his assessment of the Cardinals’ handling of the situation.
- He described the team’s decision to openly shop Arenado without a concrete deal in place as “an organizational failure.”
- Publicly dangling a player of his caliber without securing a trade has only made things messier.
- Despite this, Arenado has remained professional, making it clear he’s willing to stay in St. Louis.
For the Cardinals, this means an ongoing juggling act. They need to balance Arenado’s presence with their desire to transition toward a younger core, a process that now appears delayed.
Could an Injury Elsewhere Spark Trade Talks?
One wildcard factor could still shake things up. If a contending team suddenly loses its starting third baseman to injury, the demand for Arenado could spike.
In that scenario, the Cardinals would likely be one of the first calls made. Arenado’s proven bat and Gold Glove defense make him a game-changer for any playoff hopeful.
Another possibility? He could expand his list of approved trade destinations. If the Yankees or another high-spending team enters the mix, the situation could shift quickly.
For Now, It’s St. Louis or Bust
As of now, all signs point to Arenado suiting up for the Cardinals in 2025.
That outcome wasn’t the front office’s initial plan, but unless another team steps up—or Arenado changes his stance—there may not be another option.
One way or another, the Cardinals have to figure out where they stand. Because if this trade limbo drags on much longer, it could have lasting effects on the team’s future.
