The St. Louis Cardinals are revamping their roster around a younger core this offseason, which involves making tough choices, including parting ways with experienced players like Paul Goldschmidt and potentially top 3 baseman .
Goldschmidt has already moved on and will play for a new team in 2025, a change that seems fitting after a disappointing season with the Cardinals. Meanwhile, Arenado has been the subject of growing trade speculation, with analysts predicting he might be dealt during or shortly after the winter meetings.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, who faced off in the World Series this past November, are two teams often linked to Arenado. Signed through 2027, Arenado experienced a decline in power numbers last season. A change of scenery could benefit him, and the Dodgers have reportedly shown interest in him since last year’s trade deadline.
Los Angeles Dodgers are the favorites to trade for Nolan Arenado
Nolan Arenado, a California native, has yet to play for the Dodgers, but he could be a more affordable option than some of the third basemen available in free agency, such as Alex Bregman. Adding Arenado would provide the Dodgers with another strong bat to complement their experienced and dominant lineup.
For the Cardinals, trading Arenado is primarily about creating space for younger players and shedding his contract. It’s a straightforward move, though it’s unlikely they’ll land a top-tier prospect in return given where Arenado is in his career. With limited leverage, Cardinals executive John Mozeliak faces challenges in negotiations. However, the potential trade package suggested by ESPN’s Buster Olney has not met the expectations of St. Louis fans.
Cardinals could trade for a former villain in Nolan Arenado deal
The Dodgers, despite their financial muscle, aren’t limitless in spending. They’ve invested heavily in recent offseasons and intend to continue this trend. Adding Arenado’s contract would likely require a compromise, with St. Louis absorbing a contract in return. For the Cardinals, the trade-off wouldn’t be too unfavorable, as it would still free up some payroll. However, the player potentially heading to St. Louis carries a history that may stir some unease among fans, having been a thorn in their side in the past.
This doesn’t necessarily rule out Taylor as part of the deal, but trading Arenado is already a bitter pill for St. Louis fans to swallow—especially if it means sending their star third baseman to the Dodgers. Bringing in a player like Taylor, who famously ended the Cardinals’ postseason run in 2021, would only add salt to the wound.
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