The St. Louis Cardinals are ready to part ways with veteran slugger Nolan Arenado. As the MLB trade deadline draws closer, speculation is swirling around the third baseman and a potential move to the Chicago Cubs.
The Cubs have emerged as a logical suitor due to their ongoing struggles at third base. Rookie Matt Shaw has yet to establish himself, and the team’s front office is actively seeking upgrades. The Cubs want to make the playoffs and need a strong player like Arenado on their roster.
Former Colorado Rockies GM Dan O’Dowd sees a potential Nolan Arenado-Cubs trade.
“When you look at the Cubs right now with Swanson and Hoerner in the middle. They’re elite defensively. Even though his run production may not be the same, he’s still the elite defender he is at third base. The change we see for Nolan would be very good for him,” O’Dowd said.
Nolan Arenado ➡️ Cubs!?
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) May 23, 2025
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Dan O'Dowd details some trades that should happen around MLB ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/GtfHqlso2H
Despite the potential fit, significant obstacles stand in the way. The Cardinals are historically reluctant to trade star players within their own division. On the other hand, it’s unclear if Arenado wants to go to the Cubs.
Nolan Arenado Has A Better Chance With Other Teams
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The Cubs are the Cardinals’ division rival. Trading one of their best players to a rival is not something they would want to do, especially since the Cubs are having a great run this season. The Cubs are at the top of the NL Central, and the Cardinals are trailing by three games.
It’s also worth noting that the team reportedly has Arenado under contract through 2027, with $74 million still owed to him. Despite his no-trade clause, the 10-time Gold Glove winner is believed to be open to waiving it for select teams, depending on the situation.
For now, Nolan Arenado remains focused on his current team, and he wants to play ball. Teams like the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers are also monitoring Arenado’s situation, each with their own third base needs. While the Cubs’ need at third base is clear, Arenado would be a significant offensive and defensive upgrade. The Cardinals have improved their position in the week 8 MLB power rankings.
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