St. Louis Cardinals Trade Talks: Nolan Arenado, Ryan Helsley, and Sonny Grey on the Move?…

Date: November 2024

As the St. Louis Cardinals look to retool and revamp their roster this offseason, trade talks have been swirling around a few key players: Nolan Arenado, Ryan Helsley, and Sonny Grey. Here’s the latest on these potential moves and what they could mean for the Cardinals’ future.

Nolan Arenado: The Franchise Cornerstone in Play?

The biggest headline in the Cardinals’ trade rumours involves Nolan Arenado, one of the game’s best all-around third basemen. Arenado has been a pivotal part of the Cardinals’ lineup since being acquired from the Colorado Rockies in a blockbuster trade back in 2021.

However, with St. Louis facing an underwhelming 2024 season, there’s increasing chatter that the Cardinals might be willing to explore trading their star third baseman. Arenado is still one of the top defenders in the game and continues to produce at the plate, but his contract—wwhich includes an opt-out after the 2027 season—ccould give the team flexibility moving forward.

Potential Trade Destinations:

Chicago Cubs: The Cubs have been rumoured to be in the market for a high-calibre third baseman. With a strong farm system and playoff aspirations, they could be a potential suitor for Arenado, offering the Cardinals young talent in return.
San Diego Padres: The Padres have long been linked to Arenado, given their aggressive approach to roster-building in recent years. They have the financial capability to absorb his contract, and the addition of Arenado could help solidify their infield and improve their playoff chances.
Los Angeles Dodgers: The Dodgers, always looking to bolster their roster with elite talent, may see Arenado as the perfect addition to their already stacked team, potentially making a strong push if they look to bolster their defence and lineup depth.

Ryan Helsley: Closing in on a Trade?

Ryan Helsley, the Cardinals’ flamethrowing closer, is another name being discussed in trade circles. Helsley enjoyed a strong 2024 season but has also had his share of injuries in the past. As the Cardinals look to improve their bullpen depth and potentially acquire starting pitching or positional prospects, Helsley could be a valuable trade chip.

Given the demand for high-powered bullpen arms around the league, the Cardinals might be able to secure a strong return for Helsley. With teams like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and others looking for bullpen help, he could easily find a new home.

Potential Trade Destinations:

Tampa Bay Rays: The Rays have consistently shown an interest in acquiring high-leverage bullpen arms to complement their pitching staff. Helsley could fit perfectly in their bullpen, offering them a dominant late-inning option.
Los Angeles Angels: The Angels are once again hoping to contend in 2025, and adding a proven closer like Helsley could give them a boost in their bullpen. With their window to win around Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, a deal for Helsley would make sense.

Sonny Grey: A Veteran Starter on the Block

Sonny Grey has been one of the more consistent pitchers in the Cardinals’ rotation over the past few seasons. However, with the Cardinals looking to retool and add younger pitching talent, Grey could be on the move this offseason.

Grey, a former All-Star, would likely attract interest from teams in need of a solid middle-of-the-range starter. His experience and ability to eat innings make him a valuable trade piece for teams looking to bolster their pitching staff without breaking the bank.

Potential Trade Destinations:

Minnesota Twins: The Twins have shown interest in adding a veteran starter to complement their rotation. With their core group under contract for 2025, Grey could be an appealing option for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
San Francisco Giants: The Giants have a history of adding seasoned pitchers to their staff, and Grey could provide much-needed stability. They are looking to contend in the next few seasons, and adding a reliable arm like Grey could be a move to push them over the top.
Miami Marlins: After a strong 2024 campaign, the Marlins will likely look to upgrade their rotation. Adding a veteran like Grey could help them balance out a young pitching staff with a seasoned presence to push for the playoffs.

What Does This Mean for the Cardinals?

If the Cardinals move any or all of these players, it would represent a clear shift towards rebuilding or retooling their roster. Moving Arenado would open up a huge hole at third base but would also give the team more financial flexibility and potentially valuable assets in return. Similarly, trading Helsley or Grey would signal a focus on building for the future, particularly if they can land promising prospects in return.

For now, these trade talks are just rumours, but the Cardinals are clearly in a position to make some impactful decisions this offseason. With their long-term success in mind, they’ll need to weigh their options carefully. One thing is for sure: the next few weeks will be critical in shaping the direction of this proud franchise.