Cardinals President John Mozeliak has provided exciting updates on the potential trade of Nolan Arenado, revealing that the Boston Red Sox are a “preferred destination” for the third baseman. Although it is still unclear whether the Red Sox are actively pursuing Arenado, sources have stated that if they do, Arenado, who has a full no-trade clause, will not block the move. The 33-year-old has previously used this clause to block a trade to the Houston Astros in late December, but if Boston and St. Louis can agree on the deal’s value, Arenado would be open to the trade.
Mozeliak has made it known that Arenado, who has three years left on his contract, is widely available and that the Cardinals have been attempting to trade him throughout the offseason to reduce payroll. However, finding a trade partner has proven difficult, partly due to mismatches with potential teams and Arenado’s reluctance to join the Astros. Since the deal fell through, the Astros have shifted focus, adding Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes. St. Louis is still determined to secure fair value for Arenado before the start of the season.
Although Arenado doesn’t seem to fit perfectly with the Red Sox, who already have Rafael Devers entrenched at third base, there has been ongoing speculation about infield changes in Boston. The Red Sox have explored the possibility of acquiring Arenado or top free agent Alex Bregman. While Bregman could likely shift to second base, Arenado is expected to remain at third, meaning the Red Sox could move Devers to first base, potentially replacing Triston Casas.
Despite Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow firmly stating that the team is not shopping Casas, there remains industry belief that the Red Sox could be open to trading him, potentially to acquire young pitching. The Red Sox have had discussions about Casas with the Mariners and other teams, but no trade has materialized.
After bolstering their rotation with Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler, the Red Sox are now focused on adding a right-handed bat before Opening Day. Arenado’s offensive profile would be a strong fit at Fenway Park, and his defensive prowess would significantly improve Boston’s infield. However, Arenado’s contract is complicated, as he is owed $74 million over the next three seasons, with the Rockies paying $5 million each of the next two years. If the Cardinals don’t cover any of his salary, the Red Sox would be responsible for $64 million over the next three years.
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