Arenado anchors the Cardinals when healthy; injuries during 2025 limited his impact and forced others to shoulder more responsibility. His health will heavily influence St. Louis’ offseason priorities and lineup balance.

Arenado targets mid-September return after shoulder strain. Elite fantasy floor with power/runs; his presence could stabilize STL’s lineup and boost Cardinals in the final sprint.

Arenado’s injury leaves a veteran bat and elite defender out of the lineup, diminishing power and run production. His absence tests the club’s ability to sustain offense while also elevating defensive concerns and lineup flexibility for fantasy managers tracking late-season vibes.

Arenado is sidelined with a shoulder issue; when active, he brings elite power and run-producing potential and will anchor fantasy lineups in power-heavy leagues. The timeline targets mid-September for return, which could tilt deep-league playoff weeks with his big bat in a Cardinals lineup trending healthier.

Arenado’s departure still reverberates through the Rockies’ payroll, lineup flexibility, and player development arc. His absence underscores the club’s pivot toward a deeper, cost-controlled core, elevating the importance of young prospects stepping up and proving they can anchor a more sustainable rebuild. Fantasy-wise, STL’s gains come with volatility for former Rockies assets, as roles shift and expectations recalibrate.