Cardinals' Nolan Arenado Expands Trade List Amid Offseason Rebuild Plans

The St. Louis Cardinals are headed into a 2025–26 offseason rebuild amid a front-office change (John Mozeliak stepping down for Chaim Bloom) and a clear plan to shed payroll and veteran pieces. Nolan Arenado, in the final two years of his large contract, said he will expand the list of teams he'd waive his no-trade clause for and be more open to a trade this winter. That willingness comes as Arenado’s offense has declined (roughly a .236/.289/.371 line with an OPS near .656 and 11 homers in 2025) while he still has about $40–42 million remaining on his deal, complicating trade talks despite him remaining a plus defender. Potential fits such as the Phillies have been floated, but last winter’s attempted Houston deal—blocked by Arenado—illustrates how deals can falter, and any offseason move is likely motivated more by payroll relief than by incoming talent. Analysts warn that landing meaningful return will be difficult, so a salary dump, limited return, or other cost-saving outcome remains a real possibility as the Cardinals pursue a full rebuild.