Overview
- Reports on Friday show the Astros have actively pursued Cardinals outfielder Lars Nootbaar as a left‑handed hitting upgrade.
- Nootbaar is controllable through 2027 and carries a $5.25 million arbitration salary with roughly $1.6 million remaining for 2026.
- He has returned from heel surgery and is hitting around league average with a .241/.347/.366 line in 45 games but struggled in July.
- St. Louis is in a retooling posture and could trade Nootbaar to open playing time for prospect Joshua Baez, though the Cardinals have asked for a high return.
- Houston’s limited top prospects, mixed left‑field options (Taylor Trammell, Zach Dezenzo, LaMonte Wade Jr.) and tight payroll room constrain what package it can offer and make a deal uncertain.