Could Nolan Arenado be heading to Los Angeles? The trade rumors are heating up, and Cardinals fans are buzzing with speculation. The most likely suitor, the Los Angeles Dodgers are hot and heavy after the All Star
Arenado, who grew up in California, has a no-trade clause in his contract—but according to sources, he would be ecstatic to join the Dodgers if the opportunity arose. Reports suggest that the Gold Glove third baseman would be more than willing to waive his no-trade protection to play for one of baseball’s most storied franchises.
With Max Muncy struggling at the plate, the Dodgers could be eyeing Arenado as a potential upgrade. Adding Arenado to an already star-studded roster is a dream scenario for Los Angeles. It would give them a lethal combination of defense, power, and leadership.
In fact, the Cardinals are probably buying at the trade deadline.
Not So Fast, Nolan Arenado is Probably Staying a Redbird
But before Dodgers fans start printing Arenado jerseys, here’s the catch: it might not happen.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Cardinals aren’t necessarily looking to move their star. Despite earlier predictions of a tough 2025 season, St. Louis has been playing well—just one game behind the Chicago Cubs in the NL Central. The team has been clear: they’re not eager to part ways with key players, especially in what might be the final season with John Mozeliak as the head of baseball operations.
“They’ve communicated to other teams that even if they aren’t a front-runner, they might keep their tradable players,” Olney wrote.
Simply put, Arenado is playing well enough to stay put. He’s currently batting .280 with four home runs in 141 at-bats—solid numbers, though not quite at the elite level he’s known for. Still, with the Cardinals staying competitive and hot on the heels of the division leading Cubs, dealing their cornerstone player doesn’t seem to fit the current game plan.
Of course, baseball is unpredictable, and things can change fast. Arenado’s name might on half the headlines of trade rumors, but for now, it looks like St. Louis is holding onto their guy—and keeping their focus on chasing the Cubs.
It will be interesting to see how long it takes the fan base to catch up on how well the Cardinals are doing and start filling Busch this year.
Stay tuned—this story isn’t over yet!
