Nolan Arenado is set to remain with the St. Louis Cardinals through at least the 2025 season, despite trade rumors that have surrounded him throughout the offseason. After rejecting a trade to the Houston Astros, the Cardinals couldn't find a suitable trade partner, which leaves the eight-time All-Star looking forward to contributing to the team. In a recent interview, Arenado expressed his excitement about the upcoming season and his commitment to help the Cardinals succeed.

Despite an organizational reset that didn’t materialize, Arenado’s presence is viewed as crucial for the Cardinals, especially for their young players who can benefit from his experience. While preseason projections suggest the team might struggle, Arenado is eager to turn around his performance after a disappointing 2024 season, aiming for a bounce-back year.

Max Muncy's journey through injury and recovery has reshaped his outlook heading into the 2025 season. After beginning the year strong with a .263 batting average and nine home runs, an oblique injury sidelined him for three months, leading to doubts about his career. However, Muncy’s return was marked by a .925 OPS down the stretch, helping the Dodgers reach the World Series. His health restored, he emphasized a newfound appreciation for the game, particularly as trade rumors linked him to Nolan Arenado.

This offseason, he committed to improving defensively while working on his swing mechanics. His early spring training performance reflects that commitment, as he reached base in eight of his first 11 plate appearances. Muncy’s resilience and focused mindset may be crucial as he navigates a pivotal contract year with the Dodgers.

The St. Louis Cardinals are poised for a pivotal offseason as they reevaluate their roster after two consecutive playoff absences. Initially, the organization aimed to part with star third baseman Nolan Arenado, whose hefty $64 million contract has been a focal point in discussions. With the start of the season imminent, it appears Arenado will remain with the team, at least for now.

The Cardinals' strategy seems to hinge on the upcoming trade deadline, particularly in light of rumors linking pitcher Sonny Gray to the New York Mets. Gray, who had a solid 2024 season with a 3.84 ERA, is under a backloaded contract that might necessitate the Cardinals to absorb part of his salary to facilitate a trade. Despite his strong performance, Gray has shown reluctance to waive his no-trade clause, as he values his role in mentoring the younger players in St. Louis. However, if the Cardinals struggle early, they might have to reconsider their stance and explore trade opportunities to enhance their farm system.

The Detroit Tigers aimed high this offseason, making a strong push for Alex Bregman, a two-time World Series champion, to fill their third base vacancy. Bregman's veteran presence would have provided much-needed leadership to a young team following a near playoff run last year. Ultimately, the Tigers couldn't secure Bregman and shifted their attention to Nolan Arenado, inquiring with the St. Louis Cardinals. However, due to Arenado's no-trade clause and concerns over the Tigers' competitiveness, discussions stalled.

Despite these setbacks, analysts continue to view the Tigers as an emerging team, led by their reigning AL Cy Young winner and a promising roster of young talent. While Bregman and Arenado could have elevated the Tigers' status, the team now looks to develop prospects like Jace Jung and Matt Vierling in a platoon at third base. The offseason's moves, or lack thereof, have left many wondering about the Tigers' immediate future and potential playoff aspirations.

Blade Tidwell, the New York Mets' eighth-ranked prospect, took the mound for his first Grapefruit League start against the St. Louis Cardinals, showcasing an impressive fastball that reached up to 99 MPH. Despite allowing three earned runs, all from a wind-assisted home run by Luken Baker, Tidwell's control was notably better, throwing 19 strikes out of 30 pitches. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Tidwell's aggressive approach against a formidable lineup.

Tidwell's prior struggles stemmed from wildness in the minors, with his walk rate peaking at nearly 13%. Simplifying his pitch arsenal by reducing his offerings was a strategic move aimed at improving control heading into 2025. Tidwell's ability to maintain calm on the mound, even after giving up a home run, suggests he is developing the mental fortitude necessary for success in the big leagues.