Cardinals Seek New Home for Nolan Arenado
After the recent trade of Sonny Gray to the Boston Red Sox, the St. Louis Cardinals have turned their attention toward finding a trade partner for veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado. With the A’s in need of a quality third baseman and additional leadership within their clubhouse, they emerge as a potential destination for Arenado.
Financial Considerations in the Trade
In the deal involving Gray, the Cardinals agreed to cover $20 million of his hefty $31 million salary for the 2026 season. This financial maneuver has implications for any potential trade involving Arenado, who is set to earn $27 million in 2026, with the Rockies contributing $5 million. Additionally, Arenado’s contract includes a $30 million mutual option for 2027, which carries a $5 million buyout. This means that the Red Sox are effectively responsible for $16 million guaranteed after St. Louis’s contribution.
The question now arises: Would the Cardinals consider sending another $20 million alongside Arenado to facilitate a trade and alleviate the financial burden of the remaining $37 million on his contract? Given Arenado’s age—he will turn 34 in the upcoming season—the Cardinals may have to make such concessions to secure a worthwhile return for their star player.
Recent Performance and Challenges Ahead
Despite his impressive track record, Arenado’s recent production raises questions about his trade value. The Cardinals need to weigh the potential benefits of moving him against the obstacles they face in negotiating a deal. As they navigate this landscape, the prospect of landing a fitting trade partner looms large, especially with the A’s searching for a solution at third base.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on the Cardinals as they explore their options for Arenado, balancing the urgency of a trade against the complexities of his substantial contract and performance in recent seasons. The stakes are high, and the outcome of these discussions could significantly impact both franchises moving forward.
