Cardinals Trade Speculation Points to Possible Lars Nootbaar Move
The St. Louis Cardinals’ 2025 season has come to a disappointing end, with three of their NL Central rivals—the Brewers, Cubs, and Reds—advancing to the postseason. For an organization with high expectations, the early exit has renewed focus on how to reshape the roster heading into the winter.
One name already being linked to potential offseason changes is outfielder Lars Nootbaar. According to Josh Jacobs of Redbird Rants, Nootbaar may be among the players moved when Chaim Bloom takes over as the team’s new president of baseball operations.
The Cardinals face a roster crunch, with young talents like Jordan Walker, Victor Scott II, Alec Burleson, and Brendan Donovan all pushing for regular playing time. With Ivan Herrera expected to handle catching duties and JJ Wetherholt likely slotting into the infield, Nootbaar’s role could shrink further.
At 28 years old and just two seasons away from free agency, Nootbaar may no longer fit the Cardinals’ long-term plans. While his value has dipped after a disappointing season, his age and potential could still attract solid trade offers from contending teams.
“This would be selling low on Nootbaar if the Cardinals dealt him this offseason,” Jacobs wrote. “But with the roster logjam and Bloom looking to build for the future, it makes sense to move him now.”
A trade is unlikely to bring back a franchise-altering haul, but the Cardinals could acquire prospects to strengthen their pipeline. Given the circumstances, parting ways with Nootbaar could help the team move forward after a frustrating season.
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