Cardinals Set to Move On from $260 Million Star Nolan Arenado After Fedde DFA
The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be entering a new era—one defined by tough decisions, long-term restructuring, and saying goodbye to once-core players. The first domino fell earlier this week when the Cardinals made the surprising move to designate right-hander Erick Fedde for assignment. The decision, while unexpected, signaled a significant shift in the club’s thinking. Now, all eyes are on Nolan Arenado, the $260 million star who may be next to exit.
Arenado, once seen as the cornerstone of the Cardinals’ long-term plans, now finds himself in an uncertain position. He is coming off a disappointing stretch in which his production has declined, and the team has failed to live up to expectations. Despite a glittering résumé—including multiple Gold Gloves and All-Star appearances—Arenado is not the player he once was. With two years left on his massive deal, the Cardinals may see more value in freeing up payroll and retooling for the future than in holding onto a declining star.
The challenge? Arenado holds a full no-trade clause, meaning he controls his fate. Last offseason, the Cardinals came close to sending him to a contending team—reportedly with terms in place—only for Arenado to block the move at the last moment. His desire to remain in St. Louis, despite the team’s recent struggles, made it difficult to complete any potential trade.
But circumstances have changed. The team’s current outlook is bleak. The Cardinals, once consistent postseason contenders, haven’t made meaningful October noise in years. With their roster aging and bloated contracts tying up resources, the front office is under pressure to pivot. The DFA of Fedde—seen as a useful depth arm—was the first sign that the Cardinals are ready to reset. Shedding Arenado’s contract would be another massive step in that direction.
Insiders like Ben Kline have hinted that the Arenado era may be nearing its end. “The Cards never won much of anything and now Arenado is on the decline with two more (expensive) years left on his contract,” Kline wrote recently. “He also has a no-trade clause, which makes it difficult. The Cardinals almost found a taker last offseason, only for Arenado to opt out of the trade at the last second.”
This time, though, the mood is different. The Cardinals’ patience is wearing thin, and their priorities are shifting. Front office officials may look to revisit talks with clubs interested in Arenado, hoping that this time, the third baseman will be open to a move. Teams in need of a veteran bat and elite defense—such as the Mariners, Diamondbacks, or Yankees—could be viable trade partners if the Cardinals are willing to eat part of the contract.
If Arenado does agree to waive his no-trade clause, it would mark the end of a high-profile chapter in St. Louis. Though his arrival brought excitement and a short-term boost, the team failed to capitalize. Now, facing the reality of mediocrity, the Cardinals appear ready to make bold moves—starting with saying goodbye to their $260 million star.
