This article was originally published on www.si.com/mlb/cardinals as Nolan Arenado Rumors Intensify; Chances Of Cardinals Blockbuster. The St. Louis Cardinals could be days away from trading a franchise cornerstone away.

The Astros are out on Nolan Arenado trade talks as his declining stats, contract, and no-trade clause block another Houston pursuit.

During the offseason, the Astros and Cardinals agreed to a deal that would bring Arenado, the 10-time Gold Glove and six-time Platinum Glove winner, to Houston. But, using his no-trade clause, Arenado vetoed the deal.