The Astros have been actively pursuing options at third base this offseason. While they’ve prioritized re-signing Alex Bregman, they recently acquired Isaac Paredes as a potential backup and are now setting their sights on a much bigger target. According to Chandler Rome of The Athletic, Houston has “emerged as a serious suitor” for cardinals key star, although a trade is not yet imminent.
The Cardinals are open to trading him as part of their effort to cut payroll and make room for younger players. Arenado, who has a full no-trade clause, is willing to waive it only for teams he believes are poised to win consistently throughout his career. His agent, Joel Wolfe, emphasized that Arenado wants to join a team “with the throttle down,” focused on immediate and sustained success. While the Astros fit that description as perennial playoff contenders, it’s unclear if Arenado would approve a move to Houston. Reports suggest he has previously identified the Dodgers, Padres, Angels, Phillies, Mets, and Red Sox as his preferred destinations, though other teams might also be considered.
Financials could complicate any potential deal between the Astros and Cardinals. Arenado is owed $74 million over the final three years of his contract, though $10 million of that is covered by the Rockies as part of the 2021 trade that sent him to St. Louis. Houston is reportedly seeking financial assistance from the Cardinals to offset Arenado’s salary, but it’s uncertain if St. Louis is willing to agree to such terms or accept an unfavorable contract as part of the deal.
Another potential hurdle lies in the strained relationship between the Astros and Cardinals. The two organizations have not completed a trade since 2012, following the fallout from a scandal in which a former Cardinals executive illegally accessed the Astros’ proprietary database. While both front offices have undergone significant changes since then, some tension between the clubs may remain.
Meanwhile, the Astros’ pursuit of Arenado does not appear to signal an end to their efforts to retain Bregman. General Manager Dana Brown has stated that trading Kyle Tucker (with Paredes coming back in the deal) hasn’t changed Houston’s intention to bring Bregman back. According to KPRC’s Ari Alexander, Houston remains one of the “strong four” contenders for Bregman, alongside the Red Sox, Mets, and Yankees. The Tigers and Blue Jays have also been linked to him. Reports indicate the Astros have offered Bregman a six-year, $156 million contract, but if his camp is seeking a larger deal, it might explain Houston’s increased focus on Arenado.
While an unlikely scenario exists where the Astros retain Bregman, acquire Arenado, and use Paredes at DH when Yordan Alvarez plays left field, it’s more realistic that an Arenado trade would close the door on Bregman’s return. With multiple teams in the mix for both stars, Houston’s exploration of all options reflects due diligence in navigating a competitive offseason.
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