BREAKING: “circle back to square one for both sides” Astros-Cardinals trade land A.J. Blubaugh, Jose Fleury, in three-player trade proposal

Earlier this offseason, the St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros reportedly discussed a potential trade involving third baseman Nolan Arenado. However, the deal fell apart, primarily because Arenado’s no-trade clause allowed him to block the trade to Houston before it could be completed.

According to MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the two teams are revisiting the possibility of a trade, hoping that Arenado may be more open to the deal this time around.

“Since no other options came through — there were discussions with Boston in case Alex Bregman left — the Cardinals and Astros have re-engaged, hoping Arenado might now accept,” Heyman noted. “That still seems like the best chance, but it doesn’t appear anything is imminent.”

While it’s uncertain whether Arenado would waive his no-trade clause for a move to Houston, the fact that both teams have reopened trade talks suggests that St. Louis believes there’s a chance he might. So, what would a potential trade look like?

This Cardinals-Astros trade would complete a previously rumored deal

Despite the emergence of top prospect Cam Smith, the Houston Astros still seem quite interested in acquiring Nolan Arenado. Given their past interest in Alex Bregman, it wouldn’t be surprising if they pursued Arenado again.

For the trade to happen, the Cardinals would likely need to absorb over $15 million of Arenado’s contract, but this could result in a solid prospect return.

Houston Astros
Receive:

• 3B Nolan Arenado
• Cash Considerations

St. Louis Cardinals
Receive:

• RHP A.J. Blubaugh
• RHP Jose Fleury

This trade is fairly straightforward: Houston gets Arenado along with about $20 million to help cover part of his contract, while the Cardinals acquire two of the top 20 prospects in the Astros’ system: A.J. Blubaugh and Jose Fleury.

Blubaugh, 25, has a strong five-pitch mix and solid command. He was impressive in 2024, posting a 3.71 ERA over 128.2 innings, and is expected to make his MLB debut in 2025.

Fleury, 22, is known for having one of the best changeups in the minor leagues. While he’s a talented pitcher, his likely projection as a reliever reduces his value slightly. Still, he could make an impact in St. Louis’ bullpen within the next two years.

This deal works for both teams, although Houston would need to make room for Smith when he’s ready for the majors. While Arenado would be a strong addition to their 2025 roster, he might eventually create a logjam. But Houston can cross that bridge when they come to it.