Nolan Arenado has been on the trade market this winter, with the St. Louis Cardinals making their intent to trade the eight-time All-Star clear during December’s MLB Winter Meetings. Since then, the Boston Red Sox have emerged as the leading contender for Arenado. According to Katie Woo of The Athletic, “Multiple league sources indicate the Red Sox represent Arenado’s last chance to get dealt before the 2025 season. If Boston misses on Bregman, it could pivot to trading for Arenado.”
The Red Sox struggled defensively in 2024, ranking 29th in fielding percentage and errors while allowing 95 unearned runs. Third baseman Rafael Devers recorded a -5 Outs Above Average (OAA) for the fifth time in his eight-year career, making his eventual move to designated hitter seem inevitable. Arenado, even at 34, would be a significant defensive upgrade. He earned his 10th consecutive Gold Glove in 2022 and has remained elite in Fielding Run Value, ranking in the 75th and 86th percentiles in the two seasons since.
However, acquiring Arenado presents challenges for Boston. Masataka Yoshida currently occupies the DH role and has $54 million remaining on his contract over the next three years. Moving Yoshida would likely be necessary before Arenado could join the roster. While the move aligns with Boston’s need for defensive improvement and a right-handed bat, the logistical hurdles may explain the delay. Despite this, the Red Sox remain Arenado’s most likely destination before the 2025 season.
Leave a Reply