Cardinals Make Stunning Decision on $260 Million Star
By Zach Pressnell | Newsweek | Updated March 19, 2025, 1:36 PM
After an offseason filled with trade speculation, the St. Louis Cardinals have ultimately decided to keep star infielder Nolan Arenado for the 2025 season. Despite actively shopping him in an effort to shed payroll and accelerate their rebuilding process, the Cardinals were unable to finalize a trade due to Arenado’s no-trade clause and the financial burden of his massive contract.
Sources confirm that St. Louis explored multiple trade scenarios, including discussions with the Houston Astros and several other teams. However, Arenado refused to waive his no-trade clause for Houston, and the Cardinals couldn’t reach agreements with any of the six teams he had pre-approved for a potential deal: the Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres.
Christopher Hennessy of ClutchPoints had previously predicted this outcome, stating that Arenado would likely remain a Cardinal through the season. “The team was focused on trading him this offseason, but with no viable options, he’ll stay at third base in St. Louis with three years left on his deal. Trade talks are expected to reignite next year,” Hennessy wrote.
With the trade deadline still months away, there remains a slim chance that a contending team could make a move for Arenado—especially if injuries create a need at third base. However, his contract remains a significant hurdle for potential suitors, even if the cost in prospects would be minimal.
For now, Arenado remains a Cardinal, and the focus shifts to how he will perform amid ongoing speculation about his future.
More MLB:
- Braves Officially Move On From 25-Year-Old All-Star
- Yankees Complete Trade With Cardinals for $15 Million Starter
- Red Sox Bolster Bullpen With Blockbuster Deal for $81 Million Star
- Mets Land $75 Million Ace in Major Trade
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