Cardinals Rebuild; Arenado's Trade Decision Looms

The St. Louis Cardinals have begun an active rebuild ahead of the MLB trade deadline, highlighted by the recent trade of closer Ryan Helsley. Star third baseman Nolan Arenado, despite a down offensive year and recent injuries, remains at the center of trade rumors with interest from teams such as the Cubs, Mariners, Phillies, and Tigers. Arenado’s full no-trade clause and current indecision about waiving it complicate potential deals, as he previously vetoed a trade to the Astros in the offseason and has not expanded his list of acceptable destinations. The Cardinals may be required to pay down part of Arenado’s remaining two-year, $42 million contract to facilitate a trade. His elite defensive skills and All-Star history still appeal to contenders, but his stance could delay the Cardinals' rebuilding process. Arenado’s decision is expected to be a pivotal storyline as the deadline approaches.