The New York Mets have already bolstered their roster by acquiring Juan Soto, but they still have a significant need at the corner infield positions, particularly with Pete Alonso no longer manning first base. While the first base market is thin, the Mets could address the need by acquiring a third baseman and shifting Mark Vientos to first base.
One intriguing option is St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, who has reportedly included the Mets on the list of teams he’d waive his no-trade clause for. Thomas Gauvain of Redbird Rants recently proposed a blockbuster trade scenario that would bring Arenado to New York, potentially solving the Mets’ corner infield dilemma in a big way.
- New York Mets receive: 3B Nolan Arenado, $15 million
- St. Louis Cardinals receive: RHP Jonah Tong
Thomas Gauvain of Redbird Rants outlines this trade as a logical next step for the Mets after landing Juan Soto and strengthening their rotation. He notes that Brett Baty, currently slated as the Mets’ 2025 third baseman, struggled both offensively and defensively in 2024. Arenado, with his elite defense and consistent production, would represent a significant upgrade at the hot corner.
Adding Arenado would give the Mets one of the best defensive left sides of the infield, pairing him with Francisco Lindor at shortstop. If Pete Alonso leaves in free agency, Arenado’s acquisition could help stabilize the infield and keep the Mets competitive in 2025.
For the Cardinals, the trade provides financial flexibility, clearing over $30 million of Arenado’s remaining $52 million contract while bringing in Jonah Tong, a promising young prospect with a powerful fastball. The deal allows St. Louis to reset and focus on developing younger talent.
For the Mets, the financial aspect is appealing. With St. Louis covering part of Arenado’s salary, the move would be more cost-effective than signing big-ticket free agents like Alex Bregman or Alonso. It would also leave room for New York to invest further in their starting rotation to bolster their World Series aspirations.
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