Nolan Arenado Trade Saga: Cardinals’ Top Priority Faces Uncertainty
The St. Louis Cardinals are at a crossroads as they navigate the complex trade market for star third baseman nolan Arenado. According to Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak,trading Arenado remains “priority one,two and three” for the team. However, the process has been anything but straightforward, with Mozeliak describing the chances of a deal as “a coin toss.”
The Cardinals’ efforts to move Arenado have been hampered by several factors, including the player’s no-trade clause and the lingering presence of free agent Alex Bregman on the market. Mozeliak remains “optimistic” that a trade will materialize, but the team’s plans to strengthen their bullpen and acquire a right-handed hitter are on hold until Arenado’s future is resolved.
A deal Derailed: The Astros Fallout
In mid-December, the Cardinals thought they had a deal to send Arenado to the Houston Astros. However, Arenado exercised his no-trade clause, effectively blocking the move. The Astros quickly pivoted, signing first baseman Christian Walker and solidifying Isaac Paredes as their starting third baseman. This decision effectively removed Houston from the Arenado sweepstakes.
Yankees’ Interest and Contract Complications
The New York Yankees also emerged as a potential suitor for Arenado in December, but talks stalled due to St. Louis’ demands. The Cardinals were unwilling to absorb a significant portion of Arenado’s remaining contract—three years and $74 million, with $10 million covered by the Colorado Rockies—just to facilitate a trade.
Limited Progress and Preferred Destinations
As of January 7, there has been “almost no progress in exchange talks for [Arenado],” according to katie Woo of The Athletic. Arenado’s short list of preferred destinations has further elaborate negotiations, leaving the Cardinals in a holding pattern.
Red Sox: A Last Chance?
Multiple league sources believe the Boston Red Sox represent Arenado’s last chance to be traded before the 2025 season begins. On January 5, Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam of MassLive.com reported that Boston is “a preferred destination—if not the preferred destination” for Arenado. However, the Red Sox’s level of interest remains unclear, as they have also been linked to Bregman, along with the Toronto Blue Jays, detroit Tigers, and Chicago Cubs.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Cardinals’ Priority | trading Nolan Arenado remains the top focus for St. Louis. |
| Trade Likelihood | Mozeliak describes the chances as “a coin toss.” |
| Blocked Deal | Arenado vetoed a trade to the Astros in December. |
| Contract Details | Three years, $74 million remaining ($10 million paid by rockies). |
| Preferred Destination| Boston Red Sox are reportedly Arenado’s top choice. |
What’s Next?
As the Cardinals await clarity on Arenado’s future, the trade market remains fluid. With the Red Sox emerging as a potential landing spot, the coming weeks could determine weather Arenado dons a new uniform in 2025 or remains in St.Louis.
For now, the Cardinals’ offseason plans hinge on resolving this high-stakes saga. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.
