Cardinals Expected to Trade $260 Million All-Star Nolan Arenado with Dodgers, Tigers, Mariners Potential Suitors

The St. Louis Cardinals finished 78-84 and missed the postseason again, ushering in a new front office under president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom. A primary offseason focus will be moving veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado, who is expected to expand the list of teams he’ll accept and could be traded if the Cardinals eat salary or attach prospects. Arenado struggled offensively in 2025 (.237/.289/.377, 12 HR, 52 RBI, .666 OPS) but remains a standout defender (10-time Gold Glove), making him a buy-low or defensive depth target for contenders. Reported realistic suitors include the Los Angeles Dodgers (as a platoon/defensive upgrade), the Detroit Tigers (an American League contender that could stabilize third base), and the Seattle Mariners (a potential buy-low fit if Eugenio Suarez departs). Parallel roster questions include Willson Contreras—who also has a no-trade clause and has drawn trade interest from teams like the Mets—meaning not all moves are fully in the Cardinals’ control. With Bloom prioritizing a younger core, St. Louis is expected to be active in trade talks to clear payroll and open opportunities at third base for prospects.