The St. Louis Cardinals’ trade market is in turmoil — and the hottest name right now isn’t a pitcher, it’s veteran slugger Willson Contreras himself. After weeks of suspense in the 2025 postseason, all signs point to a possible “breakup” between Contreras and the Cardinals — a decision that could alter the team’s identity and leave fans holding their breath.
According to The Athletic, Contreras has softened his stance on waiving his no‑trade clause — a right that previously gave him control over whether or not he would be traded.
“Willson Contreras is open to trade offers and has become more willing to waive his full NTC over the last few weeks.”
The move comes after several key teammates — like Sonny Gray — were traded away, leaving Contreras perhaps realizing that the Cardinals’ rebuild is more serious than ever.
The team’s management — under new boss Chaim Bloom — is looking to capitalize on Contreras’s value by trading for younger, more promising assets.
Make no mistake, Contreras has never been a “waste product.” In 2025, despite moving from catcher to full-time first base, he still recorded 20 home runs, 80 RBI, and an OPS of ~.791 — a solid offensive contribution.
In addition, at 1B, he is also highly rated by Scout & Statcast for his defensive performance — a difficult feat for a former catcher.
But given his hefty contract (2 years remaining at $36.5 million + 2028 club option) and age (around 33–34), the team has reason to consider: is keeping Contreras worth the chance to rejuvenate the roster?
Several teams are being mentioned to “take” Contreras: among them the San Diego Padres — a team that is said to be suitable for his powerful hitting style.
In addition, the New York Mets and Boston Red Sox are also considered potential candidates if the Cardinals officially step up negotiations.
If Contreras leaves — the Cardinals will not only lose a PROVEN hitter, but also create a huge void at 1B / DH. They will be forced to believe in young players — and that is a gamble: the ability to rebuild long-term — or fall into an immediate offensive crisis.
With the Winter Meetings coming up, it’s worth watching both the Cardinals and Contreras’s actions. A big trade before 2026 is no longer a fantasy — and could be the first step toward a full rebuild.
For fans — it could be time to prepare for a new era without Willson Contreras. For journalists, it’s an opportunity to write a “smash report” about the last adventurer — a legend at a crossroads.
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