The Los Angeles Angels haven't seen postseason baseball since 2014, and as they look to finally break that drought, one of the biggest question marks on the roster is third base. Anthony Rendon’s future in Anaheim remains uncertain, with the team reportedly in discussions about a potential contract buyout. That situation has opened the door to a major possibility: Nolan Arenado.
According to recent reporting, the Angels have their eyes on the veteran third baseman, who’s been the subject of trade rumors throughout the offseason. While no deal is imminent, Arenado’s market is expected to take shape once fellow third basemen Alex Bregman and Eugenio Suárez find homes in free agency. Until then, the Angels are focused on resolving the Rendon situation - and that needs to happen before any serious talks about Arenado can begin.
But let’s explore what a potential deal could look like - and why it might make sense for both sides.
Proposed Trade:
- Angels receive: 3B Nolan Arenado
- Cardinals receive: OF Nelson Rada (Angels' No. 7 prospect), LHP Talen Haley (No. 12), OF Raudi Rodriguez (No.
At first glance, this package might seem light for a player of Arenado’s caliber. But context matters.
Arenado is 34, coming off a couple of seasons where his offensive production has dipped below his usual All-Star standards. That doesn’t erase his elite defensive value or the possibility of a bounce-back year, but it does impact his trade value - especially considering the financial commitment that comes with his contract, which runs through the 2027 season.
From the Angels’ perspective, this is a move that adds a proven veteran without gutting their farm system - particularly their pitching depth, which they can’t afford to compromise. Four of their top five prospects are arms, and in this proposed deal, they’d only be parting with one pitcher, Talen Haley.
Let’s break down what the Cardinals would be getting:
- Nelson Rada is the headliner. At just 20 years old, he’s already turning heads with his speed, defense, and contact skills.
He’s not a slugger, but he profiles as a high-average, top-of-the-order type who can cover a ton of ground in center field. He’s the Angels' top outfield prospect for a reason, and in a Cardinals system that could use more athleticism and speed, Rada fits the bill.
He’s still developing at the plate, but the ceiling is there - think All-Star potential if it all clicks.
- Talen Haley, a 19-year-old lefty, brings plenty of intrigue. He’s got a live arm and a curveball that scouts are already calling a plus pitch.
That kind of breaking ball can be a real separator as he climbs the minor league ladder. He’s raw, sure, but there’s a foundation here to build on - and the Cardinals have a solid track record of developing young arms.
- Raudi Rodriguez adds some boom to the package. He’s got legit power from the right side and enough speed to make an impact on the bases.
There’s some swing-and-miss in his game, but if he can refine his approach, he could become a middle-of-the-order threat. He’s a bit of a project, but the upside is real.
From St. Louis’ perspective, this deal is about balancing present value with long-term upside.
Arenado is still a top-tier glove at third, and there’s every chance he finds another gear at the plate in 2026. But with the Cardinals looking to retool, getting three young, controllable players - including a top-10 prospect - is a return worth considering.
For the Angels, the move would signal a win-now mindset. Arenado instantly upgrades the infield defense, brings leadership to a clubhouse that could use it, and gives the lineup a proven bat with postseason experience. And perhaps most importantly, they’d do it without sacrificing the arms they’ll need to compete over the next few seasons.
This isn’t a blockbuster yet. There are still moving parts - most notably, what happens with Rendon.
But the framework is there. If the Angels are serious about ending their playoff drought, adding Nolan Arenado could be the kind of bold step that helps them finally turn the corner.