As the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaches, the St. Louis Cardinals are confronting a major decision regarding third baseman Nolan Arenado. The team, holding a 51-48 record, is just beyond the playoff threshold in the National League and must determine how to navigate the remainder of the season with Arenado’s uncertain status at the forefront.
Arenado’s Future with the Cardinals Appears Secured for Now
Recent reports suggest the Cardinals intend to keep Nolan Arenado through the trade deadline after struggling to generate serious trade offers. Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported,
The Cardinals are planning on keeping third baseman Nolan Arenado through the deadline with no teams showing strong interest in him since he rejected potential deals to the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Angels,
highlighting the lack of compelling proposals despite earlier trade discussions.
Offensive Decline Marks Arenado’s Challenging Season
This decision comes against the backdrop of a difficult campaign for Arenado at the plate. Currently batting .244 with 10 home runs, his offensive production has dipped significantly, reflected by a career-low OPS of .688. This drop in performance contrasts sharply with his 2022 season, where he ranked third in National League MVP voting, signaling a notable downturn for the star third baseman.
Contract Obligations Complicate Trade Prospects
Arenado’s substantial contract adds an additional layer of complexity. With three years and roughly $52 million left before reaching free agency in 2028, the Cardinals must balance his high salary against the reduced offensive output. This financial commitment has limited the team’s ability to attract attractive trade partners willing to absorb his contract.
Uncertainty Remains as Deadline Nears, Future Hangs in the Balance
While the current outlook favors retaining Arenado, the situation could evolve quickly during the final 11 days before the trade deadline. The Cardinals’ management continues to monitor the market closely, understanding that any shift could impact their short- and long-term strategies. The team’s approach to Arenado in the coming days will be a critical gauge of their direction both on and off the field.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Nolan Arenado the best 3rd baseman ever?
A. Nolan Arenado will be remembered as one of the best third basemen ever and is likely to join the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. He is among just seven MLB players with more than 350 home runs and over 10 Gold Glove Awards. If Scott Rolen was inducted, then any exceptional third baseman deserves the same honor. Joel Matthew Rolen surpassed being just above average.
Q. Has Nolan Arenado ever won a world series?
A. The Cardinals traded for Arenado from the Rockies before the 2021 season. By then, he had been an All-Star three times and won two Gold Gloves. In 2022, he also placed third for the NL MVP award. Despite these achievements, the Cardinals didn’t win any postseason series with him.