Cardinals Rumors Hint at Historic Off-Season Moves

There is no way to emphasize how vast the changes are that are coming to the St. Louis Cardinals during the upcoming off-season. There are whispers of trades that could change the direction of this beloved baseball franchise forever.

I'm writing this prior to the press conference that is scheduled by new St. Louis Cardinals President of Baseball Operations Chaim Bloom on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. He's expected to lay out his plan and vision for how he'll convert the St. Louis Cardinals back to a perennial winner. Don't expect moves to really start to happen until closer to the winter meetings in December or at least until the World Series is complete (MLB frowns on big news from teams prior to the end of the season). There are a number of reports already, though, that reveal historic off-season changes. Here's what to expect.

Say goodbye to Nolan Arenado, Sonny Gray and also Willson Contreras

Sonny Gray has emphasized that he came to St. Louis to win and that Chaim Bloom has made it clear the Cardinals are not focused on that for the next few years. That's why he says he'll consider waiving his no-trade clause also. Expect the San Francisco Giants or Atlanta Braves to be likely landing spots. Even Willson Contreras who was adamant that he wanted to remain a Cardinal even through a rebuild has admitted he'd approve a trade if the right one was presented.

Previously untouchable young stars could be gone

If I were Nolan Gorman or Jordan Walker, I would not be extending my lease on any living space in the St. Louis area. Whispers say that Chaim Bloom values hitters that have high contact rates. To say that Nolan Gorman and Jordan Walker have not accomplished that would be an understatement. Jordan Walker's work ethic and approach were called out by manager Oli Marmol and hitting coach Brant Brown. The writing is on the wall that both of these young stars who have so much talent will likely be given the chance to succeed somewhere else.

All-star Brendan Donovan could be traded during the off-season

Why would the Cardinals think of trading their only all-star? Brendan Donovan still has two years of team control left and his value will never be higher than now. Don't be shocked if you hear Alec Burleson mentioned in trade talks, too. He's proven himself to be a great everyday player this year. The Houston Astros were reportedly interested in him around the trade deadline. Expect that interest to be expressed during the upcoming off-season again.

Oli Marmol may be fired

I saw Sports Illustrated mention this and I believe this has to happen, but not for baseball reasons. I don't blame Oli Marmol for the Cardinals problems the past few years, but many fans do. If the St. Louis Cardinals ownership wants better attendance at next year's games, Oli Marmol cannot be the manager. The Cardinals have a massive public relations problem and that will not be solved by allowing Marmol to return as manager. If I were allowed to choose, I'd bring in Skip Schumacher in as manager along with Yadi Molina as a bench or even pitching coach. That would send the signal to the fans that things really have changed and the Cardinals were serious about returning to contention.

When will we know what the St. Louis Cardinals will do this off-season?

Don't expect real trades to become reality until a month or two after the World Series, but you could see Marmol dismissed as soon as Tuesday's press conference being held by ownership and Chaim Bloom. Prepare for the biggest changes you've ever seen in a St. Louis Cardinals organization in decades.