The trade market for Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado is intensifying, with the player’s no-trade clause giving him significant control over his future. According to MLB.com’s John Denton, Arenado has identified six teams—the Angels, Dodgers, Padres, Phillies, Mets, and Red Sox—where he would consider playing. It is unclear if these six teams are the only destinations Arenado is open to or if additional clubs could enter the mix under specific circumstances.
Arenado’s agent, Joel Wolfe, discussed the situation at the Winter Meetings, emphasizing the player’s desire to join a team capable of immediate and sustained success. “He wants a team that has the throttle down… that he believes he can jump right in and they’re going to win right now,” Wolfe explained. Arenado is reportedly seeking a competitive environment where he can contribute to a championship run for the remainder of his career.
Wolfe also noted that Arenado is not looking to leave St. Louis unless the opportunity represents a clear upgrade. “He’s not going to go just to go,” Wolfe said. “He’s not going to move his family for a situation that doesn’t put him in a better spot.” This approach has already led to some teams being ruled out by Arenado as unsuitable destinations.
Reports suggest that some mid-market teams had shown interest in Arenado earlier in the offseason, but the six identified teams are all among the league’s bigger spenders. These teams align with Arenado’s preference for joining a franchise with a winning pedigree and financial resources to compete at the highest level.
The Yankees were among the teams initially linked to Arenado, given their need at third base and his friendship with former Rockies teammate DJ LeMahieu. However, Arenado’s interest in joining the Yankees remains unclear, and the Cardinals have reportedly focused their talks on other clubs.
Other suitors, like the Phillies and Mets, may also have hurdles to clear. The Phillies already have Alec Bohm at third base, though rumors suggest Bohm could be moved in a trade. The Mets, meanwhile, could consider Arenado if they shift their current roster, which includes Mark Vientos and Pete Alonso, to create room for a player of his caliber.
The Red Sox and Padres, two of Arenado’s preferred teams, are also reportedly engaged in discussions with the Cardinals. In Boston’s case, adding Arenado could involve shifting Rafael Devers from third base to another position. San Diego, with Manny Machado entrenched at third, might explore using Arenado at first base—a role Arenado has said he is willing to play if needed.
Despite the activity, several factors complicate a potential trade, including Arenado’s age (34 in April), declining power numbers, and the $74 million owed to him over the next three years. Any deal would need to satisfy the Cardinals, Arenado, and the acquiring team, making his trade market one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason