Sun Feb 23 14:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Astros Renew Interest in Cardinals’ Arenado After Roster Shakeup
**WEST PALM BEACH, FL –** The Houston Astros have reignited their pursuit of St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, according to multiple sources. Arenado, who rejected a trade to Houston in December, may now be open to waiving his no-trade clause.
The shift in Arenado’s stance potentially stems from the Astros’ recent additions, notably Christian Walker at first base. This move, absent during the initial trade discussions, signals Houston’s continued commitment to contention, a factor that reportedly influenced Arenado’s previous rejection.
In December, the Cardinals were prepared to contribute $15-20 million to offset Arenado’s substantial salary, reducing Houston’s financial commitment. While Arenado is owed $74 million over three years, accounting for existing agreements, the Astros’ actual outlay would have been closer to $40-45 million. The Astros even traded Kyle Tucker to reduce payroll earlier in the offseason, but are willing to exceed their luxury tax threshold for Arenado.
While the New York Yankees briefly considered Arenado, their interest has cooled, with plans to utilize existing players at third base.
Arenado’s reluctance in December was partially due to the Astros’ trade of Kyle Tucker, but the Walker acquisition appears to have alleviated these concerns. Furthermore, the Astros’ loss of free agent Alex Bregman to the Red Sox has likely clarified Arenado’s market value.
Should the trade materialize, Arenado would likely fill the Astros’ third base position, with Isaac Paredes shifting to second base due to Jose Altuve’s move to left field.
For the Cardinals, trading Arenado aligns with their plan to focus on their younger players. This would allow Nolan Gorman to return to his preferred third base position and create opportunities for other prospects. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak admitted concern about Arenado having a significant bounce-back season if he remained in St. Louis. Arenado himself expressed a focus on his own performance and achieving his goals, including Hall of Fame consideration.
While Arenado possesses a full no-trade clause, sources suggest a trade before Opening Day is likely. However, Arenado has yet to discuss potential trades with his representatives. Both Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol and Arenado himself have emphasized his strong focus and preparation during Spring Training, regardless of trade rumors. Mozeliak declined to comment on the renewed negotiations.
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