When we talk about offseason winners, it's usually the teams making splashy moves in free agency or trades that steal the spotlight. But the St.
Louis Cardinals are taking a different path this offseason, diving headfirst into a rebuild that might not land them on many "winner" lists. Yet, their approach could pay off in unexpected ways.
Sometimes, addition by subtraction is the name of the game. The Cardinals' decision to trade Nolan Arenado is a prime example.
According to a poll by Jayson Stark for The Athletic, some MLB executives view this move as a positive step for St. Louis.
Nolan Arenado's trade wasn't about instant gratification for the Cardinals. Despite a decline, Arenado wasn't washed up when he was sent to the Arizona Diamondbacks.
His 2025 season was rough, hitting .237/.289/.377 with 12 home runs, but he still managed 5.9 fWAR over 2023-24. His defensive prowess remains intact, and with the Cardinals covering much of his contract, the return of a single prospect, Jack Martinez, might not seem like a blockbuster deal.
However, the trade wasn't about the immediate return. It was about clearing the path for young talent to step up. This move signals a shift in focus for the Cardinals, prioritizing the development of prospects and setting a new timeline for competitiveness.
From this angle, the decision to move Arenado makes sense. It was time for the Cardinals to pivot and embrace a new era, which is why some executives are applauding the Cardinals for making this bold move.
The future is now the priority, and Arenado's departure opens the door for what's next in St. Louis.