Could the St. Louis Cardinals soon be involved in a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers?
For now, the Cardinals are making too much to consider selling, but if that changes, St. Louis could finally end up cutting ties with its All-Star infielder after months of speculation, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney.
“A Nolan Arenado trade could still be possible,” Olney wrote Monday.
“The conditions are emerging to foster this possibility, if Arenado waives his no-trade clause and if the Cardinals are willing to negotiate him.”
“It’s not usually easy to move a position player for big money midseason, but contenders could be interested in acquiring the eight-time All-Star third baseman.”
“The Los Angeles Dodgers waited last season for Max Muncy to reverse a slow start, and he finally did; this year, they’re waiting again.”
Muncy’s inconsistent performance in 2025 (.190 batting average entering Monday) has led the Dodgers to consider upgrades, and Arenado’s elite glove and proven bat make him an ideal target.
However, there are several obstacles for Los Angeles, most notably Arenado’s no-trade clause. The 34-year-old vetoed a trade to the Houston Astros last winter.
Furthermore, the Cardinals may not decide to sell at all this summer.
On the other hand, if a midseason slump in St. Louis opens the door for a deal with Arenado, the Dodgers could seemingly offer a package of prospects or young pitchers to start the talks.
Keep an eye on the Dodgers if the Cardinals start to slide.