Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals’ star third baseman, has made it clear that he holds the Boston Red Sox in high regard as the offseason trade rumors swirl around him. In fact, the Red Sox are quickly becoming a leading contender to acquire the 33-year-old as he prepares to leave St. Louis. While the Houston Astros showed interest in Arenado, the veteran made it clear he had no interest in moving to Houston, leaving Boston among the teams in the running to land him.
According to MLB insider John Denton, the Red Sox are now one of the top contenders for Arenado in a potential trade from the Cardinals. As the club continues to pursue roster upgrades, the Red Sox have turned their focus to Arenado, especially after missing out on other big-name options like Teoscar Hernández and failing to re-sign Tyler O’Neill. Notably, acquiring Arenado could also help Boston avoid committing to a lengthy, expensive deal for a free-agent third baseman like Alex Bregman, who could command a massive $200 million contract.
The move would be a perfect fit for the Red Sox, who still need a right-handed bat to bolster their lineup. Arenado, an eight-time All-Star and ten-time Gold Glove recipient, finished his 2024 season with a solid .272 average, 16 home runs, and 71 RBIs across 152 games.
Though his home run total was his lowest in four years, a move to Fenway Park could reignite his power numbers. With its iconic 310-foot Green Monster in left field, Fenway provides a more hitter-friendly environment for Arenado’s right-handed swing compared to Busch Stadium’s more spacious left field.
Nolan Arenado
With $74 million left on his contract with the Cardinals, Arenado could be a much more affordable option for the Red Sox compared to signing a free agent like Bregman. Additionally, Arenado’s history with Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story, with whom he spent six seasons on the Colorado Rockies, could provide a seamless transition.
Together, they could solidify the Red Sox’s infield and boost the team’s chances of contending in 2025. If the Red Sox are serious about making a run for the postseason next year, adding Arenado could be the key piece to put them back in the conversation.
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