Nolan Arenado Trade Talks Heat Up Again - And This Time, It Feels Real
Here we go again - Nolan Arenado’s name is back in the trade conversation for the second straight offseason. But unlike last winter’s quiet rumblings, this time, there’s a different tone coming out of St.
Louis. And that tone?
It’s all business.
The Cardinals have a new president of baseball operations, and the days of straddling the line between contending and rebuilding seem to be over. If a deal makes the team better in the long run, they’re ready to pull the trigger - even if that means moving a franchise cornerstone like Arenado.
Let’s be clear: Arenado isn’t just a good player. He’s a defensive wizard with 10 Gold Gloves, six Platinum Gloves, and eight All-Star nods to his name.
But for all the hardware, he’s never played in a World Series. At this stage in his career, that matters.
And if the right opportunity comes along, there’s a growing belief he’d waive his no-trade clause to chase a ring.
But finding a match isn’t just about Arenado’s willingness - it’s about who’s buying, what they’re offering, and whether the Cardinals are willing to eat some of his hefty contract to get better talent in return. Let’s break down the teams that could be in the mix.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Need: Max Muncy is the current man at third, but Arenado is a clear upgrade both offensively and defensively. Muncy’s versatility gives the Dodgers flexibility - he could shift to another spot on the diamond or take on more DH duties.
Trade Chips: The Dodgers are loaded. Seven of their prospects rank in the top 100, though most are position players.
That’s not ideal for the Cardinals, who are prioritizing young pitching. But L.A. has the financial muscle to absorb more of Arenado’s salary, which could sweeten the return package - maybe even pry loose a big-league-ready arm.
Fit: This is as close to a perfect match as you’ll find. Arenado’s a California native, the Dodgers are perennial contenders, and the Cardinals could land a strong haul if they play their cards right. It checks every box.
New York Yankees
Need: Third base is a glaring hole in the Bronx. DJ LeMahieu was designated for assignment, Ryan McMahon has struggled against lefties, and Oswald Peraza’s bat hasn’t come around. Arenado would instantly stabilize the hot corner.
Trade Chips: New York has four top-100 prospects, including two pitchers - exactly what the Cardinals are looking for. And if St. Louis is willing to go big, there’s a chance to swing a larger deal that could include outfielder Spencer Jones.
Fit: Strong. Arenado has mashed at Yankee Stadium, posting a .366 average and a 1.129 OPS there.
The Yankees need a steady glove and a proven bat, and the Cardinals would love to tap into their young pitching. This one has real legs.
Philadelphia Phillies
Need: Not much. Alec Bohm is coming off an All-Star season and hit .287 last year. The Phillies have been linked to trade rumors involving Bohm, but unless that materializes, there’s no clear path for Arenado.
Trade Chips: They’ve got three top-100 prospects, but the fit is awkward. Andrew Painter would be a huge get, but that’s a steep ask.
Aidan Miller is a shortstop - not a priority for St. Louis - and Justin Crawford is an outfielder.
Fit: Low. Unless something drastic changes, this doesn’t look like a match.
New York Mets
Need: The Mets have internal options with Brett Baty and Mark Vientos, but neither has locked down the position. Arenado would be an upgrade, no question. The question is whether the Mets want to spend big at third after shelling out for other areas.
Trade Chips: Four top-100 prospects, including two pitchers. That’s a good starting point for negotiations.
Fit: Call it medium - or simply unpredictable. The Mets don’t always follow a straight line when it comes to roster building, so while the pieces are there, it’s hard to know how serious they’d be about pursuing Arenado.
Seattle Mariners
Need: Third base is a question mark. Colt Emerson could be the long-term answer, but he’s not quite ready. And after trading top prospect Harry Ford to bolster the bullpen, the Mariners are signaling that they’re in win-now mode.
Trade Chips: Seattle has one of the deepest farm systems in baseball, with seven top-100 prospects. That gives the Cardinals a wide range of options - especially if they’re looking to reload with young, controllable arms.
Fit: Excellent. Arenado could be the final piece for a Mariners team that’s knocking on the door. With the right offer, this could be a win-win for both sides.
Houston Astros
Need: None. Third base is locked down.
Trade Chips: Not much to work with. Only one top-100 prospect, and he’s a second baseman.
Fit: Doesn’t make sense. Cross them off the list.
So Where Does That Leave Us?
Arenado has reportedly long been open to teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, Padres, Red Sox, Phillies, and Mets - so some of these “new” trade possibilities aren’t exactly new. What’s changed is the Cardinals’ willingness to deal and the Mariners entering the conversation as a legitimate contender with the assets to get a deal done.
Houston doesn’t seem like a fit, but Seattle? That’s a club that could make a real move. And if Arenado’s truly looking to chase a championship, this might be the offseason where it finally happens.
One thing’s for sure - the Cardinals are at a crossroads, and Arenado’s future could be the first domino to fall. Stay tuned. This winter just got a whole lot more interesting.