With the July 31 trade deadline approaching, reports suggest that the Chicago Cubs are seriously exploring a trade for Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals. This potential move has ignited buzz due to the intense rivalry between the two teams and the impact it could have on the National League Central standings.
Cardinals’ Current Standings and Trade Discussions
The St. Louis Cardinals currently hold a 52-50 record, sitting 8.5 games behind both the first-place Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers in their division. They also trail by 3.5 games for a Wild Card position. As the regular season rushes toward its end, the Cardinals are reviewing their roster and considering several players for potential trades, with Arenado, a key figure for fans, included among the candidates.
Insights from Baseball Insiders on Arenado’s Trade Prospects
According to Major League Baseball insiders, the possibility of trading Arenado has gained traction after previous attempts stalled. Although Arenado is protected by a full no-trade clause, sources note that he has expressed openness to joining clubs such as the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Surprisingly, the Cubs have also emerged as a feasible destination alongside teams like the Angels and Tigers.
Potential Implications for Cubs and Cardinals
If acquired, Arenado would add considerable value to the Cubs’ roster, providing veteran leadership and significantly enhancing their playoff capabilities. On the other hand, trading Arenado would mark a strategic pivot for the Cardinals, possibly signalling the start of a rebuilding phase as they reassess their goals moving forward.
With the deadline fast approaching, both franchises face difficult decisions. The longstanding rivalry between Chicago and St. Louis adds complexity and heightened drama to any possible deal, drawing close attention as the season advances.
“Nolan Arenado holds a full no-trade clause but has expressed interest in joining teams like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers.” —Sources