Who Will Be the Cardinals’ Next Third Baseman if Nolan Arenado Departs?

As speculation mounts regarding the possible departure of Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals find themselves facing a significant decision at third base. Arenado, a perennial All-Star and Gold Glove winner, has been the cornerstone of the Cardinals’ infield since his arrival in 2021. However, reports suggest the team might explore trading him to reconfigure their roster and manage payroll. This potential move raises a critical question: Who will take over as the Cardinals’ next third baseman?

Arenado’s Legacy and the Cardinals’ Future

Arenado’s performance in 2024 showed signs of decline compared to his usual standards. While he still managed a respectable .272 batting average with 16 home runs and 71 RBIs, these numbers were the lowest of his career since his rookie season. Despite this, his defensive prowess and leadership on the field remain unmatched.

If the Cardinals decide to move on from Arenado, they’ll need a player capable of filling his shoes both defensively and offensively. The organization has several internal options and could also explore the trade or free-agent markets to address the vacancy.

Internal Candidates for Third Base

1. Brendan Donovan
   A versatile infielder, Brendan Donovan has proven to be a reliable option across multiple positions. In 2024, he demonstrated strong defensive capabilities and contributed significantly to the offense with his ability to get on base. Donovan’s left-handed bat provides balance to the lineup, making him a strong contender for the role.
2. Nolan Gorman
   Although primarily a second baseman, Nolan Gorman has experience playing third base from his time in the minors. Known for his power-hitting ability, Gorman could replace some of the offensive production lost with Arenado’s departure. However, his defensive performance at third base remains a question mark, and his transition back to the position might require adjustment.
3. José Fermín
   José Fermín, though less experienced at the major league level, offers another internal option for the Cardinals. His versatility in the infield and right-handed bat could make him a valuable asset in filling the third base role.
4. Thomas Saggese
   A promising prospect, Thomas Saggese has shown potential in the minor leagues and could emerge as a future option at third base. While he may need more time to develop, the Cardinals could view him as a long-term solution.

External Options

If the Cardinals prefer a more experienced or established player, they could explore trades or free agency. Options on the market might include players with proven track records at the hot corner, though financial constraints and the team’s rebuilding priorities could limit such pursuits.

Implications for the Team

Arenado’s potential departure signals a pivotal moment for the Cardinals. Moving on from a player of his caliber would mark a shift in the team’s strategy, likely focusing on developing young talent and creating roster flexibility. However, it also leaves a significant gap to fill, particularly in leadership and defensive stability.

The Cardinals’ decision on their next third baseman will not only shape their infield but also set the tone for their competitiveness in the 2025 season. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as the organization navigates this critical juncture.

For now, the future of the hot corner in St. Louis remains uncertain, with a mix of promising options and challenges ahead.