Rapid Response: Nolan Arenado reportedly invokes no-trade clause to block deal with Astros

Some quick immediate thoughts on Wednesday’s Arenado news, which doesn’t strike me as cause for frustration just yet

Rapid Response is a recurring installment that addresses breaking Cardinals news in as timely a manner as other, lesser obligations allow. No, Rapid Response does not replace the longer weekly piece that you’ve come to know and tolerate.

MLB.com on Wednesday reported that Nolan Arenado, whom the Cardinals are working to trade, invoked his full no-trade clause to block a deal that would’ve sent him to the Astros. Derrick Goold and Katie Woo have both since confirmed that report. As you’re no doubt aware by now, the Cardinals are hoping to trade Arenado not only to clear salary but also to clear an additional path for another young player to be a primary contributor in 2025 (signs point to Nolan Gorman being the new third baseman in the event of an Arenado trade).

Now for some quick reactions to the news, with bullet points in a stirring gesture of haste and importance …