Stalemate Alert: Cardinals Hit a Roadblock in Veteran Slugger’s Talks
St. Louis Cardinals find themselves at a standstill, with both sides holding firm. The Cardinals are exploring trade possibilities for him, whose no-trade clause gives him the power to reject moves to undesirable teams. He’s already turned down a deal with the Houston Astros, narrowing St. Louis’ options.
According to MLB.com’s John Denton, Arenado’s top preference is the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team that aligns with his desire to compete for a World Series and is close to his hometown in Orange County. However, the Dodgers have yet to engage in trade discussions, as they appear content with Max Muncy at third base at this stage of Arenado’s career.
Denton reports that the Dodgers might still entertain a deal but are waiting for the Cardinals to feel pressured, potentially forcing St. Louis to cover more of Arenado’s contract. However, with the Cardinals aiming to cut payroll, they are unlikely to agree to a deal requiring them to absorb significant salary. Meanwhile, the Dodgers are unlikely to offer much trade value in such a scenario, knowing they hold the upper hand.
While Arenado rejected a trade to Houston, the Astros could revisit talks if they fail to re-sign Alex Bregman. If the Dodgers definitively pass on Arenado, he may reconsider a move to Houston. The Philadelphia Phillies could also emerge as a contender, given their reported interest in parting ways with Alec Bohm, while the New York Yankees might pivot to Arenado if Bregman becomes unavailable.
If Arenado insists on a move to the Dodgers, the Cardinals may need to include reliever Ryan Helsley to make the trade more appealing, which could diminish Helsley’s standalone trade value. If no deal materializes, the Cardinals might have to retain Arenado, complicating their plans to retool the roster.
Keeping Arenado would hinder the Cardinals’ vision for 2025. It could block Nolan Gorman’s potential transition to third base and limit opportunities for Thomas Saggese, who excelled in the Arizona Fall League.
Arenado appears unafraid to fully leverage his no-trade clause. Until the Dodgers provide a clear response, he holds the leverage, leaving the Cardinals in limbo as he waits for his preferred team to make their move.