The St. Louis Cardinals are actively looking to navigate the trade market this offseason, particularly eyeing options to enhance their player development system. A key player in this mix is third baseman Nolan Arenado, who has been on the trade block. However, his no-trade clause complicates potential moves before the start of the 2025 season.

Another player garnering interest is utility man Brendan Donovan. With the New York Mets possibly in pursuit of a Gold Glove talent, Donovan's .280 batting average and impressive career stats make him an attractive target despite his importance to the Cardinals. A proposed trade has New York acquiring Donovan for a package including Ronny Mauricio, Dom Hamel, and Alex Ramírez, all top Mets prospects.

However, given Donovan's projected leadership role for the upcoming season and the Cardinals' desire to retain their homegrown talent, a trade involving him seems unlikely. The 27-year-old still has three years of team control, strengthening St. Louis's position to hold onto him as they rebuild.

The New York Mets are enhancing their roster depth by signing catcher Chris Williams to a minor league deal. Williams, who was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 2017, has yet to make his MLB debut but boasts a solid minor league track record with 95 home runs over six seasons.

Projected to start Francisco Alvarez, the Mets view Williams as a depth option, likely to play at Triple-A Syracuse. The team has also added utility player Jared Young and continues to seek improvements in their infield.

The New York Mets have secured pitcher Clay Holmes with a three-year, $38 million contract, pending a successful physical. The 31-year-old right-hander can earn $13 million in the first two years and $12 million in 2027, with an opt-out option after 2026.

Holmes, a former All-Star with the New York Yankees, had a challenging season but showed promise in the postseason. The Mets are also bolstering their roster with other signings, including Frankie Montas and several minor league players.