MLB Rumors: Concerning Update On Nolan Arenado Trade Talks
Jon Morosi of MLB Network recently reported that discussions “have not progressed recently,” and with spring training approaching, the chances of Arenado staying in St. Louis continue to grow.
The Cardinals have been open about their desire to shed payroll, but Arenado’s remaining contract—three years at $21 million in 2025, $16 million in 2026, and $15 million in 2027—has made negotiations difficult.
Further complicating matters is his full no-trade clause, which he already used in December to block a deal with the Houston Astros. MLB.com’s Will Leitch speculated that Arenado "may regret" rejecting that trade, as Houston moved on and his market has since dried up.
Nolan Arenado had an OPS of .965 in 2019…
— Tommy Maestas (@tommym8) February 3, 2025
He had an OPS of .719 in 2024….
Nolan held the bat with the interossei muscles of his right hand in 2019. This allowed him to use his extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) to deliver his bat to the ball….
He held the bat with the flexor… pic.twitter.com/QMDxGkfCpK
The Yankees and Red Sox were considered potential landing spots earlier in the offseason, but neither team appears eager to commit to an aging third baseman with declining numbers.
Yankees insider Bryan Hoch recently said he is “waiting for [the Yankees] to come back around on Nolan Arenado,” but there is little indication they are seriously revisiting the idea.
The Cardinals also lack leverage, as teams have other options available, such as Alex Bregman and Pete Alonso, and seem willing to wait. Reports from MassLive’s Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam confirm that St. Louis has made no secret of its willingness to move Arenado, but no team has been willing to meet their price.
The Mets and Royals have been mentioned as possible destinations, yet nothing has gained traction.
Nolan Arenado wanted Mark McGwire to help with coaching and the #STLCards said no. He eventually started secretly working with Jim Edmonds because the team didn't want outside help.
— Aaron S (@aarons333) February 3, 2025
They're so caught up in their own bubble that they won't let players get outside help.
With Arenado coming off a down year—batting .272/.325/.394 with 16 home runs and 71 RBIs—his trade value is at its lowest since joining the Cardinals.
His age (34 in April) and back issues have only added to the hesitation among potential suitors. If St. Louis cannot move him soon, they may have to hold onto him until the trade deadline or lower their asking price.
“At this point, it seems like the Cardinals probably would do pretty much anything to get a deal done,” Leitch noted, but with little interest and Arenado’s contract still a hurdle, the team may be forced to start the season with him on the roster.
Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
