Report: One Team Is The "Last Chance" For Nolan Arenado Trade To Get Done


With the 2025 MLB season approaching, the Boston Red Sox are increasingly viewed as the final chance for the St. Louis Cardinals to trade star third baseman Nolan Arenado. 

After a disappointing 2024 campaign and plans to reduce payroll, the Cardinals are eager to move Arenado’s remaining $74 million contract. While Arenado has a full no-trade clause, he has reportedly expressed willingness to waive it for Boston, influenced by former teammate Trevor Story’s efforts to bring him aboard. 

The market for Arenado has narrowed significantly, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees stepping back and Arenado vetoing a trade to the Houston Astros. Multiple league sources told The Athletic that Boston may be “Arenado's last chance to get dealt before the 2025 season.”

For the Red Sox, interest in Arenado hinges on their pursuit of free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman. If they miss out on Bregman, a trade for Arenado could become their primary option, albeit with challenges. 

Adding Arenado would likely require moving Rafael Devers to first base and potentially including young star Triston Casas in the deal. The financial aspects are equally complex, as St. Louis may need to retain a portion of Arenado’s salary to facilitate a trade. 

"A Cards-Red Sox swap could be contingent on St. Louis swallowing a sizable chunk of the money still owed to the third baseman and Boston also dealing Casas for value," reported MLB.com's John Denton.

For the Cardinals, failing to trade Arenado before the season could disrupt their plans to develop younger players and reduce financial commitments. 

Team President John Mozeliak acknowledged the situation, saying, “If we have the ability to find him a place he desires, it’s something we are going to try to do.” A midseason trade remains a fallback option, but keeping Arenado through the start of 2025 would complicate roster flexibility.

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