Trade Rumors Surround Cardinals’ Nolan Arenado Amid Fading Playoff Hopes

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — As the July 31 trade deadline approaches and the St. Louis Cardinals‘ playoff chances dwindle, speculation arises regarding the future of third baseman Nolan Arenado. The 10-time Gold Glove winner has struggled offensively but remains an elite defender.

Entering the halfway point of the 2025 season, the Cardinals currently sit five games behind the first-place Chicago Cubs in the National League Central. Although St. Louis boasts one of the hottest offenses in the league, discussions about trading Arenado have heated up.

On May 5, Jim Bowden of The Athletic suggested that the Cardinals should consider trading Arenado to the Detroit Tigers. Bowden proposed a deal that would send Arenado to Detroit in exchange for right-handed pitcher Josh Randall and third baseman Carson Rucker. The Tigers, who hold the best record in the American League, have faced challenges at third base, making the addition of Arenado a logical fit, he argued.

Arenado is batting .254 this season, with 31 hits, nine doubles, and three home runs in 32 games, but his value has decreased in recent years. Despite the Cardinals’ interest in trading him to the Houston Astros over the offseason, the 34-year-old holds a full no-trade clause, which complicates any potential moves.

Bowden acknowledged that while Arenado has yet to indicate any desire to move to Detroit, the prospect of joining a playoff-contending team with strong pitching might entice him to reconsider. Moreover, he suggested that St. Louis could benefit from acquiring younger prospects as they continue to rebuild.

The Cardinals also face another challenge as they have approximately $64 million left on Arenado’s contract, which might deter potential buyers. Speculation will likely continue as the trade deadline nears.

In related news, the Boston Red Sox, recently affected by the season-ending injury to first baseman Triston Casas, may also look to the Cardinals for potential trades. The Red Sox could have interest in St. Louis slugger Luken Baker, who has struggled for playing time this season yet has shown power in the past.

As the Cardinals navigate a potential trade for Arenado, team president John Mozeliak faces tough decisions that could shape the franchise’s future.