Report: One Team Out Of The Nolan Arenado Sweepstakes

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially taken themselves out of the running for St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, ending speculation about a potential blockbuster move. 

General Manager Brandon Gomes confirmed the decision, stating that Max Muncy will remain their starting third baseman. “Max is going to play third base for us,” Gomes said. “He’s such a big piece of what we do and has been a staple.” 

This decision solidifies the Dodgers’ focus on maintaining their current core, including Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Mookie Betts, while maximizing flexibility within their championship-caliber lineup.

The Dodgers aren't expected to pursue a trade for 3B Nolan Arenado nor have they considered it a possibility, according to @FabianArdaya.

This report comes a day after the teams general manager Brandon Gomes confirmed Max Muncy as their third baseman moving forward. pic.twitter.com/KdRnbsHZYG

— Dodgers Tailgate (@DodgersTailgate) December 10, 2024

Nolan Arenado, who holds a full no-trade clause, has expressed willingness to join a contending team, with his agent Joel Wolfe suggesting that his list of acceptable destinations is “bigger than you would think.” 

The New York Yankees, still reeling from their inability to acquire Juan Soto but who just signed Max Fried, are emerging as a strong candidate for Arenado’s services. 

Adding Arenado would give the Yankees an elite bat to complement Aaron Judge and allow Jazz Chisholm Jr. to shift to his natural position at second base. For a team looking to stay competitive in the AL East, Arenado represents an opportunity to bolster both offense and defense in one move.

Talked a lot of Nolan Arenado on the Dodgers with @Corporate_Greg last night.

Feels like it could be a forced fit trying to make him work for LA. But I wouldn't absolutely hate it if they landed him, depending on what goes back to STL. https://t.co/6Pbpqb9wzn

— Clint Pasillas (@realFRG) December 10, 2024

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Angels could also enter the mix, viewing Arenado as a solution to their ongoing issues at third base and a potential replacement for Anthony Rendon. 

With the Dodgers officially out, the Cardinals now turn their attention to identifying a new suitor willing to absorb Arenado’s remaining $74 million contract. 

Photo Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images