Astros Named Potential Trade Destination for $260 Million Eight-Time All-Star Nolan Arenado

The Houston Astros have a major decision to make this offseason at third base. With homegrown star Alex Bregman testing the free-agent waters, the team could be staring at a significant hole at the hot corner if Bregman decides to sign elsewhere. While a reunion with the two-time All-Star seems like a natural fit, it’s far from a foregone conclusion. If Bregman doesn’t return, could general manager Dana Brown look to the trade market for a solution? One name to keep an eye on: St. Louis Cardinals veteran Nolan Arenado.

Arenado’s Decline: Is There Still Value?

Arenado is no stranger to trade rumors, and as the 2024 offseason unfolds, his name is once again being tossed around in discussions. Heading into his age-34 season in 2025, Arenado has shown signs of slowing down. After two stellar campaigns in 2021 and 2022 where he belted 30 home runs and drove in over 100 RBIs in both seasons, the eight-time Gold Glove winner’s offensive production has dropped over the past two years.

In 2024, Arenado posted a respectable but unspectacular .272/.325/.394 slash line, with 16 home runs, 23 doubles, and 71 RBIs across 635 plate appearances. His .719 OPS was the lowest he’s posted since his rookie year in 2013 with the Colorado Rockies. While the drop in power is concerning, it’s important to note that Arenado is still a defensive wizard at the hot corner, an aspect of his game that hasn’t diminished one bit.

But what does this mean for a potential trade? CBS Sports’ Dayn Perry suggests that while Arenado’s offensive numbers have tapered off, he remains an elite defender. “He’s also not a liability at the plate, at least based on 2024 levels of production,” Perry writes, adding that Arenado’s bat-to-ball skills—especially his tendency to pull the ball—could be a good fit for a ballpark like Minute Maid Park, where the short left field porch could help rejuvenate his power numbers.

A Fit in Houston?

The Astros are, without question, in “win-now” mode. Coming off a deep playoff run in 2024, the team is poised to remain a contender for years to come, especially with their core of established stars like José Altuve, Yordan Alvarez, and Kyle Tucker still under control. With a window that could remain open for the next few seasons, filling the third-base spot with a proven player like Arenado could make a lot of sense.

The biggest question mark is Arenado’s contract. After signing an eight-year, $260 million extension with the Rockies in 2019, Arenado is under contract through 2027, with a substantial portion of that deal still to be paid. However, the Cardinals are in a rebuilding phase and may be looking to shed some payroll. In order to move Arenado, St. Louis might need to eat some of the remaining money on his deal to facilitate a trade, making him a more palatable option for teams like the Astros.

The other factor to consider is Arenado’s no-trade clause. He waived it once to facilitate his trade from the Rockies to the Cardinals in 2021, and while it’s unclear if he would do so again, the right opportunity could prompt him to do so once more. A trade to a championship contender like Houston, with a team that offers a legitimate shot at another title, could be enticing for Arenado as he heads into the twilight of his career.

What Could the Astros Offer?

From a trade standpoint, Houston has the assets to make a deal work. While the Astros may not want to part with their top-tier prospects, they do have a deep farm system and a variety of young players at the major league level who could intrigue the Cardinals. Shortstop Jeremy Peña, outfielder Chas McCormick, or even a potential package involving multiple prospects could be part of the conversation, depending on how much of Arenado’s contract the Cardinals are willing to absorb.

Additionally, the Astros could use Arenado’s leadership and championship pedigree. His presence in the clubhouse could be a great asset as Houston looks to continue its dominance in the American League.

What Happens with Bregman?

Ultimately, the Astros’ approach to third base hinges on what happens with Alex Bregman. If Bregman re-signs with the team, this discussion becomes moot. But if he departs, the team could find itself scrambling to replace a major source of both offense and defense. While a reunion with Bregman remains the most likely outcome, it’s not out of the question that the Astros might pivot to a trade for Arenado as a high-profile replacement.

While Arenado may not be the same offensive force he once was, he can still contribute in a major way. A solid hitter with elite defense, he could be a great fit for a team like the Astros—especially if they are looking to contend for another World Series title in the near future.

In the end, whether it’s Bregman or Arenado manning third base for the Astros in 2025, Dana Brown has his work cut out for him this offseason. But as we’ve seen with previous moves, the Astros have the resources and the will to make bold decisions—so don’t be surprised if the three-time Silver Slugger makes his way to Houston in the near future.

Stay tuned: The Astros’ third-base situation might be just getting started.