Nolan Arenado Expected to Leave St. Louis Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals are likely to part ways with veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado this winter, with the Los Angeles Angels emerging as a potential destination. According to Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic, the Angels are in discussions regarding a buyout with their current third baseman, Anthony Rendon, and Arenado could be an appealing option.

Rosenthal emphasized that while no trade is imminent, the market for Arenado will become clearer after free-agent deals for players like Alex Bregman and Eugenio Suárez are finalized. Earlier this week on an episode of Foul Territory, Rosenthal noted that Arenado is among multiple Cardinals players likely facing a trade this offseason, which includes reliever JoJo Romero, first baseman Willson Contreras, and left fielder Brendan Donovan.

In 2025, Arenado played in 107 games, struggling to a career-low batting average of .237 with 12 home runs and 52 RBIs. Despite being an eight-time All-Star, his performance has dipped, but there are hopes that a fresh start with the Angels could reignite his career and help him rediscover his previous form.

The Angels, who finished last season with a 72-90 record, are not expected to contend for a World Series title in 2026. However, a change of environment might provide Arenado the opportunity to revive his career.