Nolan Arenado Opens Up About Change Amid Cardinals Transition
ST. LOUIS — St. Louis Cardinals veteran Nolan Arenado appears to be rethinking his future with the club as the team heads into a crucial rebuilding phase. After an injury-filled 2025 season and months of trade speculation, Arenado has reportedly become more open to potential changes — a notable shift from his earlier stance.
Arenado, 34, missed about 40 games due to a right shoulder injury before returning to the lineup on September 15, 2025, following a short rehab assignment with Double-A Springfield. Before his injury, his offensive production had dipped, with no home runs recorded since late June.
With the Cardinals preparing for major roster adjustments under new team president Chaim Bloom, Arenado’s changing perspective seems to align with the organization’s broader plans. Reports suggest he may be willing to revisit his no-trade clause and expand the list of teams he’d consider joining if the front office decides to explore trade options.
“There are drastic changes that need to happen for this organization — and for myself,” Arenado recently said, signaling his openness to a new direction.
Still, any potential move would be complicated. Arenado remains under contract through 2027 with a sizable salary, making a trade logistically challenging. League insiders note that the Cardinals must balance honoring Arenado’s legacy with realistic expectations about his performance and the team’s long-term needs.
For now, Arenado is focused on finishing the season healthy and regaining consistency at the plate.
“I’ve got to show that I’m healthy,” he said, reflecting on his recovery and his desire to finish strong.
Whether Arenado stays in St. Louis or moves on, his evolving mindset hints that this offseason could bring a turning point for both the player and the franchise.
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