St. Louis Cardinals Trade Rumors: Nolan Arenado Deal Now “Inevitable” as Rebuild Accelerates

The St. Louis Cardinals are actively shopping star third baseman Nolan Arenado. This move follows their recent trade of pitcher Sonny Gray. The team’s leadership appears committed to a full roster rebuild.

According to analysis from CBS Sports, a trade now seems unavoidable. The organization signaled its intent with a farewell gesture to Arenado last season.

Cardinals Expected to Pay Down Contract to Facilitate Move

CBS Sports analyst Mike Axisa labeled the trade “inevitable.” He pointed to the team’s recent financial maneuvering as a clear precedent. The Cardinals subsidized $20 million to trade Sonny Gray to Boston last week.

Arenado is owed $37 million over the next two seasons. Analysts believe St. Louis will absorb a significant portion to get a deal done. This financial flexibility is key to attracting contenders and securing a better return.

The veteran infielder is coming off his worst offensive year. He batted .237 with a .666 OPS and missed time with an injury. Despite this, his elite defensive reputation and past MVP-caliber production maintain his value.

A Mutual Need for a Fresh Start

Arenado, 34, has expressed a desire to win. The Cardinals are not projected to contend soon. This mismatch makes a separation logical for both parties.

Trading Arenado is the club’s top offseason priority. Completing it would accelerate the rebuild by acquiring young talent. It would also allow Arenado to chase a championship elsewhere.

The third base market will influence the timing. A deal may not happen instantly at the Winter Meetings. However, the consensus is a trade will be finalized this winter.

The path forward for St. Louis is clear. A Nolan Arenado trade is the pivotal next step in a dramatic Cardinals roster overhaul. The coming days should bring this saga to a head.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Is Nolan Arenado definitely getting traded?

Multiple reports indicate a trade is highly likely. CBS Sports called it “inevitable” after the Cardinals’ recent actions and financial moves.

Q2: Why would the Cardinals trade Arenado?

The team is rebuilding and Arenado wants to play for a contender. Moving his contract also frees resources to acquire younger players for the future.

Q3: Which teams might want Nolan Arenado?

Contenders needing a third baseman or a veteran bat are likely candidates. Specific teams have not been confirmed, but the market will develop as meetings progress.

Q4: What did Arenado’s 2025 season look like?

He had a down year, hitting .237 with 12 home runs and a .666 OPS. He also missed over a month due to an elbow injury.

Q5: Will the Cardinals have to pay part of his salary?

Yes, analysts widely expect this. The team already paid $20 million to facilitate the Sonny Gray trade, setting a clear precedent.

Q6: How long is Arenado under contract?

He has two years remaining on his deal with the St. Louis Cardinals. He is owed $37 million over that period.