The Kansas City Royals reportedly reached out to the St. Louis Cardinals about third baseman Nolan Arenado last offseason. Arenado’s no-trade clause played a role in shutting down a potential deal, but things are different this offseason.

Arenado, 34, is under contract through the 2027 campaign. The Cardinals would like to move on from Arenado, but they would surely prefer to do so without simply releasing him. Getting something in return would be a best scenario.

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However, the veteran endured a down 2025 season. He slashed just .237/.289/.377 across 107 games played. Arenado hit 12 home runs and 18 doubles as well. An eight-time All-Star, Arenado has displayed signs of decline over the past couple of years, and his performance hit a low last season. In fact, his 1.3 WAR was the worst mark of his career.

So, why would the Royals help the Cardinals out by acquiring Arenado? After all, Kansas City signed third baseman Maikel Garcia to a five-year contract extension earlier in the offseason, so they do not need help at the hot corner. And it isn’t as if Arenado can simply move to first base, as Vinnie Pasquantino is playing there.

From a fit standpoint, Arenado could potentially DH while filling in at third base when necessary. The reason for acquiring him in the first place may come down to Brendan Donovan, though.

Donovan is also being mentioned in trade rumors. If the Royals were to make St. Louis a respectable offer for Donovan, the Cardinals would likely consider it. The problem is that a number of other ball clubs are rumored to have interest in him.

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If Kansas City also expresses a willingness to acquire Arenado in addition to Donovan, however, that could place them above other potential suitors.

The final note to make on Arenado is that acquiring him would not be a terrible move. Sure, he endured a down season in 2025, but a bounce back isn’t completely out of the question. He was an All-Star as recent as 2023, so the idea of Arenado getting back on track is not unrealistic.

Should the Royals trade for Nolan Arenado? In all reality, the answer is probably not unless it helps them acquire Brendan Donovan as well. Donovan represents the possible difference-maker when it comes to the idea of a Royals and Cardinals Arenado trade.