John Mozeliak told the media that he recently met with Nolan Arenado about the third baseman's looming opt-out.

In addition, Mozeliak pledged that the St. Louis Cardinals' payroll will increase for the 2023 season.

Arenado can opt-out of the remaining five years and $144 million on his contract. Mozeliak indicated there's some optimism regarding a resolution between the two sides.

He could have opted out last season as well, but decided against it and hit .293/.358/.533 with 30 home runs in 620 plate appearances in 2022.