Phillies-Cardinals Trade Buzz Heating Up With Offseason Looming

"It isn’t hard, for example, to see the Philadelphia Phillies as a glaring fit, given their lack of long-term commitment to Alec Bohm at third base, their penchant for chasing star players (many of whom could share the spotlight with Arenado in his later years), and his existing relationships and playing history alongside some of those stars," Jones wrote. "If the Phillies are looking to move a disgruntled Nick Castellanos and his $20 million salary for 2026—a player who lacks any trade protection—there seems to be an obvious match, especially since the Cardinals could then look to flip Castellanos, either in the offseason or at the deadline.

"Philadelphia, however, was not particularly engaged in last winter’s trade process, nor were they on the list of destinations from Arenado’s camp. What appears to be a fit from the outside can look less clear upon closer inspection."

The Phillies would be a good fit for Arenado if the price is right.

The Cardinals likely aren't looking for much, if anything, in return. Practically all the Cardinals could look to gain from this move is the cap relief of putting Arenado's contract on another team.

At this stage of his career, Arenado isn't a superstar. He could be a solid defensive player at the hot corner, while allowing Bohm to fill a hole in the outfield.

Still, with the Phillies looking to re-sign Kyle Schwarber, it might not be reasonable to take on Arenado's money. Either way, the fit works, so if the Cardinals are willing to eat some of the remaining contract, this idea could work.