The excitement around the Major League Baseball (MLB) trade market is palpable as teams ramp up their efforts to acquire top-tier talent. With the Rangers and Mets recently completing a significant deal, the ongoing winter meetings are lighting a fire under the free-agent market. Meanwhile, plenty of teams are scouting both domestic and international prospects, amplifying the competitive atmosphere. Amid all this activity, one name that frequently surfaces in trade discussions is Nolan Arenado.
Last season, the St. Louis Cardinals contemplated trading Arenado, but the move ultimately fell through. Arenado expressed a desire to find a more advantageous situation, especially with Alex Bregman’s potential free agency creating complications for players looking to secure positions at third base. Although Arenado is a seasoned veteran, Bregman’s rise as a coveted free agent placed additional pressure on the market dynamics.
As the offseason progressed, multiple teams pursued Bregman, who ultimately signed with the Boston Red Sox. Now, a year later, both Bregman and Arenado find themselves again on the trading block, albeit with distinct circumstances; while Bregman has become a free agent, Arenado remains under contract with the Cardinals.
We’re in for another winter of “so is Nolan Arenado getting traded, or what” discussion, but the fits are .. somewhat hard to find?
A 30 team countdown to find a new home, if there is one:
— Mike Petriello (@mike_petriello) November 24, 2025
Arenado’s performance during the 2025 season was lackluster, which may have impacted his trade value. As a result, the Cardinals are revisiting the idea of trading him, but this time, the landscape appears more favorable, with several teams actively interested.
Red Sox, Diamondbacks, and Angels Emerge as Top Suitors for Nolan Arenado
The Boston Red Sox’s interest in Nolan Arenado adds an intriguing dimension to the trade conversation. The prospect of a reunion between the Red Sox and Bregman remains uncertain, but Arenado could serve as a formidable asset, particularly in Fenway Park where his power could play well. Interestingly, he was also in talks about heading to Boston last year, making this connection even more relevant.
On the other side, the Arizona Diamondbacks are keen to fill the void left by Eugenio Suarez’s departure. With younger players like Blaze Alexander and Jordan Lawlar rotating through third base, Arenado could provide the stability and veteran experience that the Diamondbacks desperately need.
Additionally, while the Los Angeles Angels may appear as an unexpected contender for Arenado, recent changes within the franchise show a willingness to shake things up. Alongside their interest in Cody Bellinger, the Angels seem poised to revamp their roster, which includes letting go of former manager Ron Washington, signaling a desire for fresh direction.
Despite the competitive landscape shaping up around him, Nolan Arenado presents a compelling option for several teams. The Cardinals remain focused but are actively weighing their options as they consider how to proceed this offseason.
In conclusion, the trade buzz surrounding Nolan Arenado underscores the dynamic nature of the MLB offseason. With a variety of potential suitors from different teams, the next few weeks will likely determine his future in baseball. As clubs look to solidify their rosters, Arenado remains a key figure in the ongoing dialogue about trades and free agency, making for an interesting storyline to follow as the new season approaches.
