The St. Louis Cardinals are gearing up for a busy winter in the trade market as they aim to lower payroll and create space for emerging talent. With key players like Willson Contreras and Sonny Gray opting for no-trade clauses, options are limited.
Nolan Arenado, a fan favorite, is on the trading block, with the Houston Astros potentially interested. However, trading Arenado is complicated due to his no-trade protection and substantial contract obligations.
Despite a challenging 2024 season offensively, Arenado's defensive skills remain a strong asset, making him appealing to teams looking to contend. The Astros may pursue him if they lose Alex Bregman, but the Cardinals might struggle to receive significant value in return due to Houston's weak farm system.
