As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, speculation intensifies around potential trades. Notable names in the trade market include Ryan McMahon of the Colorado Rockies, who has shown consistent performance but is evolving his game. Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers, a top starter, could be moved as they assess their roster options. Eugenio Suárez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is enjoying a stellar season, while teammates Merrill Kelly and Sandy Alcantara are also attracting interest. The St. Louis Cardinals have their own considerations with Nolan Arenado and Ryan Helsley, each with different scenarios influencing their future.

The market could shift rapidly, influenced by team standings and the impending postseason. Players like Cedric Mullins and Mitch Keller are also under the microscope, along with others who may not have been on this initial list. With every team evaluating their potential for postseason contention, the next few weeks promise significant changes across the league.

Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals' star third baseman, is in the latter stages of his illustrious career, having made a significant impact since joining the team in 2021. As the Cardinals look to transition to a younger roster, Arenado's name has surfaced in trade rumors, yet his veteran presence remains crucial as the team vies for playoff contention. Recently, he praised Sonny Gray's remarkable performance, which included an 89-pitch shutout against the Cleveland Guardians.

Arenado boasts impressive career stats, including 351 home runs and a .850 OPS, solidifying his status among the elite third basemen. With a solid playoff history and a reputation for defensive brilliance, his role in the team's success this season will continue to be vital, especially as they navigate the challenges of a postseason push.

The St. Louis Cardinals edged the Chicago Cubs 8-7 in a thrilling game marked by five home runs and numerous defensive highlights from both sides. Lars Nootbaar began the scoring for the Cardinals, hitting a two-run homer in the second inning. However, the Cubs retaliated with a five-run third inning, including a three-run blast by Seiya Suzuki. The game saw lead changes, with Masyn Winn's two-RBI double proving pivotal; he scored from second on a mental lapse from Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Despite a strong effort by the Cubs, including a late home run from Nico Hoerner, the Cardinals held firm, highlighted by Nolan Arenado's outstanding late-game defense, sealing the victory.

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, analysts are identifying key players to watch. Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals ranks as the highest among several potential trade candidates. Despite a career-low performance in terms of power, his defensive skills remain top-notch, making him an intriguing option for teams in need of a strong third baseman. While the Yankees, Tigers, Brewers, and Mariners are noted as potential fits, Arenado's no-trade clause complicates matters. Additionally, several Cardinals pitchers, including Ryan Helsley and Erick Fedde, are also on the radar for trades.

On June 24, 2025, Casey Wilson unleashes his favorite MLB player prop bets focusing on home runs. With favorable weather on the East Coast, the bets hinge on player matchups rather than stadium effects, especially outside Coors Field. Highlighted players include Ernie Clement of the Toronto Blue Jays, who has shown impressive stats against left-handed pitchers, making him a strong bet against Logan Allen. Nolan Arenado, facing Jameson Taillon, is also poised to hit a home run due to Taillon's struggles with right-handed hitters. Rob Refsnyder and Byron Buxton round out the list, with both players poised to capitalize on their matchups.