Cardinals Star Rejects Trade Proposal to Astros
St. Louis Cardinals star Nolan Arenado, who is on the trade market this offseason, has declined a potential deal to the Houston Astros, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.
For a Cardinals team on the brink of a “re-tool,” Arenado’s remaining three years and $74 million on his contract seem to be an apparent hindrance to a front office looking for maximum spending flexibility. The Astros were reportedly a serious contender for his services as recently as last week.
Astros Not Out of Running for Arenado Despite Declined Trade
While the 33-year-old Arenado is a top trade target this offseason, his contract possesses a full no-trade clause, allowing him to veto any trade the Cardinals might design involving him. On December 11, Arenado disclosed six teams that he would accept a trade to: the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and Boston Red Sox.
As a native of Southern California, it is clear that Arenado desires to play for a team that is either close to his hometown or will be contending for a championship in the near future.
The Astros, so far this offseason, have traded outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs and will likely lose third baseman Alex Bregman to free agency. While Arenado’s decision does not rule out a trade later this offseason, according to Katie Woo of The Athletic, it does indicate his desire to see his market unfold a bit more before making a decision.
