The St. Louis Cardinals are looking to ease their payroll burden this offseason as they embark on a rebuild. Several key players, including Sonny Gray and Ryan Helsley, are expected to be traded to help reduce costs. However, in a surprising turn, another fan-favorite—Nolan Arenado—could be moved to the National League East in a blockbuster deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Arenado, who has three years and $74 million remaining on his contract (excluding the portion the Colorado Rockies are still paying), could be an ideal addition to the Phillies, according to MLB.com’s Will Leitch. “Arenado is not even that expensive,” Leitch noted, adding that Arenado could be a significant asset for any team looking to contend for a World Series over the next few seasons.
Arenado joined the Cardinals in 2021 with hopes of helping the team secure its 12th World Series title, following eight seasons with the Rockies, during which Colorado made the playoffs twice. However, with St. Louis entering a youth-focused rebuild, Arenado’s championship window with the team is closing fast.
The Phillies, who are looking to improve after last season’s postseason run, might view Arenado as a valuable upgrade at third base. Philadelphia’s Alec Bohm, who struggled during the playoffs, could be replaced by the 10-time Gold Glove winner. If the Phillies are serious about making a push for the World Series, acquiring Arenado could be the right move to bolster their infield and strengthen their championship hopes.
