The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be heading into a rebuild this offseason, so fans should brace themselves for changes.
With few expiring contracts, significant roster adjustments will likely come through player cuts and trades.
When it comes to trades, almost anyone on the roster could be moved as the front office works to revitalize the franchise. But which three players are most likely to be dealt in the near future?
OF Lars Nootbaar
With top prospects like Thomas Saggese and JJ Wetherholt expected to become key players in the Cardinals’ infield, Brendan Donovan will likely shift to a full-time outfield role. This creates a logjam, leaving someone like Lars Nootbaar with limited opportunities.
Although Nootbaar still has some team control left on his contract, he likely won’t bring back a major return for the Cardinals. There’s little room for him in St. Louis, as he seems to have hit his offensive ceiling, and it’s nothing particularly standout.
3B Nolan Arenado
The Cardinals should prioritize offloading Nolan Arenado this offseason. Not only is his hefty contract a financial burden, but he’s also occupying a roster spot that could be used by a top prospect like Wetherholt.
With the team heading into a rebuild, holding on to a veteran who isn’t improving makes little sense. Arenado’s large contract and no-trade clause complicate any move, but at this point, the Cardinals might be better off paying another team to take him.
UTL Brendan Donovan
The decision largely hinges on whether the Cardinals trade Nootbaar. If they do, that opens up a spot in the outfield for Donovan. If not, Donovan could find himself on the trade block.
While he’s a fan favorite and a reliable hitter, Donovan has likely hit his peak and isn’t likely to improve further. As a versatile player, he could bring back a solid return in a trade.
Given the Cardinals’ rebuild, it’s unlikely they’ll be competitive before Donovan’s contract expires. Since an extension seems off the table, trading him this offseason would be a smarter move rather than waiting until he becomes a rental at the trade deadline a few years down the road.
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