Why 10-Time Gold Glove Winner Could Be Cubs Perfect Trade Fit

One of the most intriguing stories during last MLB offseason was whether the St. Louis Cardinals were going to trade eight-time MLB All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove Award winner Nolan Arenado.

It was clear why the Cardinals wanted to trade Arenado. They were trying to begin a rebuilding phase, and keeping a 34-year-old player whose best days are behind him but still has two years and $42 million on his contract (as of this current offseason) makes all the sense in the world.

And given that Arenado is still a respectable offensive threat and remains one of baseball's best defensive players, they surely assumed they'd get a good return for him.

However, Arenado has a full no-trade clause in his contract. And last winter, he said he would only accept a trade to the Houston Astros, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the New York Yankees, the Boston Red Sox, and the San Diego Padres.

The Cardinals' front office then tried to trade Arenado to the Astros, but he decided to turn it down, which was apparently owed to Arenado thinking the Astros' having traded Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs was a signal they weren't trying to win right now.

Fast forward a year, and the Cardinals had a disappointing 2025 season, and Arenado was mediocre on offense (he hit .237 with 12 home runs and a .666 OPS), which diminished his trade value.

Arenado has also come out and said that he thinks his time in St. Louis is done and that he would be more open to being traded this winter.

Could this create a path for the Chicago Cubs to pursue him?

Why a Cubs-Nolan Arenado Union Could Make Sense

Third base is arguably the Cubs' weakest infield position, with Matt Shaw slated as the starter heading into 2026. There's a good chance Chicago will target this position via trade and free agency, which is the first reason why they could pursue Arenado.

What's more, St. Louis clearly wants to offload Arenado's contract. If Chicago were willing to take that on, they wouldn't have to give too much away in terms of prospects. And there's no question that Arenado's veteran presence and leadership would be beneficial among the Cubs' young roster.

While Arenado has regressed on offense, he can still rebound and be an average MLB hitter next season, and his defense remains world-class. Not to mention that Cubs fans would love poaching one of the Cardinals' top players.

All of this is to say that the Cubs' front office should at least consider inquiring about a trade for Arenado this winter.

C.J. Stroud Makes TIME Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential in Sports!

In yet another defining moment for the Houston Texans and their young superstar, C.J. Stroud has officially been named to TIME Magazine’s prestigious “Top 100 Most Influential in Sports” list

, honoring the athletes who are not only changing the game — but also shaping culture, leadership, and hope beyond it.

At just 23 years old, Stroud’s inclusion on the list cements him as

one of the youngest players ever to receive the distinction, joining a class that includes global icons like LeBron James, Lionel Messi, and Serena Williams.

From Rookie Sensation to Global Inspiration

When Stroud was drafted second overall in 2023, few could have predicted just how quickly he would redefine the Texans’ identity — and the spirit of an entire city.

In his first season, he didn’t just put up historic numbers; he brought belief back to Houston. His leadership, humility, and fierce work ethic have drawn comparisons to legends far beyond football.

TIME Magazine’s feature highlights not just his on-field brilliance, but his character, purpose, and faith, describing him as:

“A new kind of quarterback — one who leads with conviction, plays with purpose, and inspires a city with every word and every throw.”

A New Face of the NFL

Stroud’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. In just two seasons, he’s become a symbol of resilience and integrity, proving that greatness doesn’t require arrogance — just authenticity.

His ability to stay grounded amid fame has made him a role model for a generation of fans, especially young athletes who see in him a reflection of humility and heart.

Texans owner Cal McNair praised Stroud’s achievement, saying:

“C.J. doesn’t just represent Houston — he represents hope. What he’s doing on the field is extraordinary, but what he’s doing off it is what truly defines him.”

The Power of Purpose: “Next Play Foundation”

Beyond touchdowns and trophies, Stroud’s impact is felt most deeply through his Next Play Foundation — a nonprofit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth through education, mentorship, and community development.

Since its launch, the foundation has:

Funded over $2 million in scholarships and youth programs.
Partnered with Houston schools to create after-school learning centers and mentorship initiatives.
Launched the “Next Play Leadership Camp,” giving teenagers hands-on lessons in teamwork, leadership, and mental wellness.

When asked by TIME what drives his mission, Stroud’s answer was simple but powerful:

“I’ve been blessed to live my dream, but the real win is helping others chase theirs.”

That quote alone has become a rallying cry across social media, reflecting the deep emotional connection between Stroud and the people who believe in him.

From Adversity to Legacy

C.J. Stroud’s journey hasn’t been easy. Raised by a single mother in Rancho Cucamonga, California, he faced challenges that could have broken anyone.

Instead, they built him.

His father’s incarceration during his teenage years shaped his perspective, fueling his empathy and compassion. Stroud often credits his mother for his strength, saying:

“She never let me give up. Every time life hit me hard, she reminded me who I was — and whose I was.”

Those words have become a cornerstone of his identity, inspiring millions who face their own battles.

Praise From Across the Sports World

Following the announcement, tributes poured in from athletes and fans alike.

Patrick Mahomes wrote on social media:

“C.J. is the real deal. Talent, leadership, faith — he’s got it all. Well deserved, my brother.”

LeBron James reposted the TIME cover, adding:

“Proud of this young king. Keep using your platform for good. The world’s watching.”

Even former Texan J.J. Watt joined in:

“C.J. Stroud is showing what it means to lead with heart. Houston couldn’t ask for a better representative.”

A City Reborn

In Houston, murals of Stroud have already begun appearing downtown — not just of him in uniform, but surrounded by children, books, and community centers bearing the “Next Play” logo.

To a city that’s endured hardship, both on and off the field, Stroud’s story is a living testament to faith, perseverance, and transformation.

Local journalist John McClain summed it up perfectly:

“C.J. Stroud hasn’t just changed the Texans — he’s changed Houston. He’s proof that leadership can be humble, and greatness can be kind.”

A Global Icon in the Making

As TIME Magazine’s profile concludes, it’s clear that Stroud’s influence extends far beyond football. He represents a generation of athletes who believe in something bigger than the scoreboard — a movement defined by empathy, service, and legacy.

“I don’t want to just play football,” Stroud said in the interview. “I want to change lives. That’s the real purpose God gave me.”

For Houston — and the millions watching around the world — it’s a message that resonates deeply.

C.J. Stroud isn’t just an athlete.
He’s a symbol of hope, humanity, and what happens when talent meets purpose.

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