Cardinals' Trade Discussions for Nolan Arenado Hindered by No-Trade Clause

The St. Louis Cardinals are actively exploring trade options for star third baseman Nolan Arenado this offseason. However, these discussions are complicated by Arenado's full no-trade clause, which allows him to veto any proposed deal. According to a report by Mark Feinsand, John Denton, and Brian McTaggart of MLB.com, the Cardinals were in discussions with the Houston Astros about a potential trade, but Arenado informed the team that he would not waive his no-trade clause to join the Astros.

The Cardinals are planning for 2025 to be a reset year, which has led to Arenado's name being frequently mentioned in trade rumors. During the winter meetings last week, Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak expressed his intention to pursue a deal. A trade could be mutually beneficial: Arenado, who turns 34 in March, could join a team with immediate competitive aspirations, while the Cardinals could free up salary space and give playing time to emerging talents like Nolan Gorman and Jordan Walker.

Despite the potential benefits, Arenado's no-trade clause gives him significant control over his future. Last week, it was reported that he would consider waiving his clause for six teams: the Angels, Dodgers, Padres, Phillies, Mets, or Red Sox. The Astros were notably absent from this list.