The trade speculation surrounding superstar third baseman Nolan Arenado continues to generate heated discussions across Major League Baseball, with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Boston Red Sox expressing interest as they strategize upgrades for their rosters. The 33-year-old is firmly on the market, and teams recognize his potential to significantly impact their championship pursuits.
Arenado’s illustrious career is marked by accolades such as ten Gold Glove awards and eight All-Star selections. Yet, following what many view as the worst season of his career at the plate, MLB franchises are proceeding with caution when exploring potential trades. With about three years remaining on his hefty $74 million contract—of which the Colorado Rockies are contributing $10 million—teams are urged to weigh their options carefully.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as potential suitors. After making headlines for blockbuster trades, including acquiring Shohei Ohtani for $700 million last year and bringing Blake Snell on board this offseason, they appear poised to make another significant move. Instantly recognizable for their aggressive spending, the Dodgers may find room for Arenado, albeit with some roster adjustments required. With Max Muncy solidified at third base and Mookie Betts potentially transitioning back from the outfield, the acquisition would necessitate creative alignment to maximize Arenado’s value.
At the same time, the Philadelphia Phillies are eyeing Arenado as part of their plans for bolstering their title ambitions. Following speculation about trading Alec Bohm—who had previously shown signs of discord within the clubhouse—rumors have linked them directly to Arenado as they seek reinforcements. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak has stated plainly, "Trading Arenado is a top organizational priority,” reflecting the urgency his club feels. The negotiation could involve acquiring Arenado and pitcher Ryan Helsley, enhancing the Phillies’ competitive edge significantly.
Ryan Helsley stands as one of the league's top closers, having recorded 49 saves last season. His inclusion alongside Arenado would undoubtedly raise the stakes for the Phillies, who are still contemplating how to overhaul their roster for the upcoming season. The prospect of acquiring Helsley—and improving the bullpen—could also serve as leverage, especially since there have been no signs of extension talks between him and the Cardinals.
Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox haven’t been absent from these discussions. Though they don’t necessarily require another third baseman, interest lingers due to the benefits Arenado could provide, chiefly through his right-handed bat and superior defensive abilities. More intriguingly, reports suggest the Red Sox might explore the inclusion of Helsley as part of any deal, enhancing their bullpen significantly. NESN’s Adam London noted, "A deal for Arenado and Helsley might be one of the more prudent moves Boston could make at this juncture," highlighting their pressing needs.
Cardinals’ president Mozeliak expressed surprise at Arenado’s recent decision to veto a trade to the Houston Astros, saying, "I think when [Kyle] Tucker was traded [to the Cubs], it was almost more like order of operation.” This reflects both the delicate trade market and the no-trade clause complications surrounding Arenado. His trade list includes contenders like the Red Sox, Phillies, Dodgers, Mets, and Padres, increasing the intrigue as teams contemplate their future.
The Yankees, meanwhile, remain interested but have been ruled out for now, as reports suggest they are waiting to see how the situation evolves before jumping back in. This manufacturing pressure might encourage the Cardinals to act sooner rather than later, prompting heightened trade discussions as the season approaches.
With the Cardinals determined to shift momentum and move Arenado before the season takes shape, the trade rumors surrounding him have become more than just idle speculation. They represent various teams’ efforts and aspirations to construct stronger rosters, aiming for success as the 2025 season nears. Whether or not Arenado will find himself wearing different colors this spring remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the speculation will only intensify as teams position themselves for title contention.