MLB Rumors: Update On Nolan Arenado Trade Talks

Nolan Arenado’s trade status remains uncertain as the St. Louis Cardinals continue to search for a viable deal. 

While both the team and the third baseman are open to a move, his $74 million contract over the next three seasons, coupled with a no-trade clause, has made talks difficult. 

The Cardinals had an agreement in place to send Arenado to the Houston Astros, but he blocked the deal, leading Houston to pivot to Christian Walker instead. 

Since then, trade discussions have stalled, with the New York Yankees, Mets, Boston Red Sox, Seattle Mariners, and Detroit Tigers all linked to Arenado at various points. 

St. Louis recently dismissed a proposal from New York involving Marcus Stroman, showing reluctance to take on additional salary in return.

The latest on the Nolan Arenado trade market, with @jonmorosi.#MLBNHotStove pic.twitter.com/u7guHXRLZN

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 29, 2025

ESPN’s Buster Olney suggested the Los Angeles Dodgers remain an option but may not be prioritizing Arenado. “If the Dodgers wanted him, they would have gotten him,” Olney said, noting Los Angeles' lack of urgency. 

The Mets have reportedly explored acquiring him as a potential lineup boost, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Pete Alonso’s future. 

Meanwhile, teams interested in Alex Bregman’s free agency, including the Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, and Astros, could revisit Arenado if Bregman signs elsewhere. 

If a team is willing to absorb his full salary, discussions could accelerate, but so far, no club has been eager to do so.

The Nolan Arenado trade market has not progressed recently, as I reported today on @MLBNetwork.

The Cardinals may not be able to find an acceptable trade before the start of spring training. https://t.co/azpb6ei8RS

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 29, 2025

With Spring Training approaching, the Cardinals are preparing for the possibility that Arenado remains on the roster. 

However, sources indicate he has become more open to expanding his list of trade destinations, which could reignite discussions. If St. Louis agrees to retain salary or take back an unfavorable contract, the chances of a deal improve. 

While a trade before Opening Day is still possible, for now, Arenado remains in limbo as the Cardinals continue to listen to offers.

Photo Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images