The St. Louis Cardinals are entering a crucial offseason under the guidance of Chaim Bloom, aiming to rebuild after missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year with a 78-84 record in 2025 [1, 6]. Bloom's decisions won't be easy, as the team seeks to improve after a disappointing season [2]. Several key moves are anticipated, including potential trades and free agency acquisitions [6, 11, 14].
Potential Trades and Key Players
One significant move under consideration is trading Nolan Arenado, with the Boston Red Sox emerging as a potential landing spot [3, 10]. Arenado has indicated a willingness to waive his no-trade clause for the right fit [3, 5]. The Cardinals may need to include a substantial portion of his salary to facilitate a trade [12]. Trading Arenado would allow the Cardinals to rebuild using a framework similar to past successful trades [1]. Despite a desire to rebuild, the Cardinals may also explore signing some of their existing stars to contract extensions [14]. One possibility is to buy out Brendan Donovan’s remaining arbitration years and add additional free agent years to secure cost certainty [7].
While subtracting from the roster is a likely strategy, the Cardinals also need to consider their pitching depth. With Miles Mikolas's performance declining, finding reliable starters is crucial [5]. Losing Mikolas along with another starter could put undue pressure on young, unproven players [5]. An intriguing option could be pursuing German Marquez in free agency [5]. Prospect JJ Wetherholt, one of baseball's top overall prospects, could potentially join the Cardinals' lineup as early as 2026, offering a bright spot amid the rebuild [4].
Bloom's Balancing Act
Chaim Bloom faces the challenge of balancing the team's long-term vision with the need to remain competitive [2, 6]. While a rebuild is underway, the Cardinals are urged to consider acquiring key veterans in free agency [11]. This approach could provide both leadership and talent to supplement the younger players. The team may also look into buying out Donovan’s remaining arbitration years, adding on two additional free agent years for some cost certainty, and make him your everyday 3rd baseman [7].
TL;DR
- The Cardinals are set to rebuild under Chaim Bloom after missing the playoffs for three straight years [1].
- Nolan Arenado is a prime trade candidate and may be dealt this offseason [3, 10].
- JJ Wetherholt, a top prospect, could make his debut as early as 2026, providing a spark for the team [4].
- The Cardinals will need to balance trading veterans with acquiring free agents to maintain competitiveness during the rebuild [11, 14].