Report: Nolan Arenado "Highly, Highly Motivated" To Join This Team

Nolan Arenado is "highly, highly motivated" to join the Boston Red Sox, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney, and has already vetoed a potential trade to the Houston Astros.

Those close to the St. Louis Cardinals’ third baseman believe he is eager for a fresh start, and Fenway Park’s hitter-friendly dimensions could help him regain form after a down season in which he posted a .719 OPS with 16 home runs and 71 RBIs.

With the Red Sox searching for a right-handed power bat, trade talks between the two teams have picked up once again as Spring Training approaches.

Given that Nolan Arenado vetoed the potential deal to the Astros, what some of his friends say is important: They think he would really like the idea of going to the Red Sox, if Boston and the Cardinals work out terms. Arenado's current mindset: "Highly, highly motivated."
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) February 5, 2025

Boston has also been linked to free agent Alex Bregman, and there is some belief they prefer him over Arenado.

Red Sox broadcaster Lou Merloni noted, "With the report of the Sox checking in with Arenado, it kind of has a feel that he's there if they want him."

Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported that recent conversations between the Red Sox and Cardinals have kept the possibility alive, with St. Louis weighing its long-term plans and Boston considering how Arenado would fit into their infield.

If acquired, he could allow Rafael Devers to shift to designated hitter, improving the team’s defense.

Those close to Nolan Arenado think he would 'really like' the idea of a trade to the Red Sox 👀

(via @Buster_ESPN) pic.twitter.com/HLudPE3G1h
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) February 5, 2025