Despite an offseason filled with trade rumors, Nolan Arenado reported to St. Louis Cardinals spring training on Sunday, and based on his comments, a move seems unlikely.
Arenado told reporters that he was selective about potential trade destinations, limiting his list to no more than five teams due to family considerations. He also stated it was “not likely” that he would expand that list, even if it meant staying with a Cardinals team that isn’t expected to contend.
“I’m back and I’m ready to go play ball,” Arenado said, via Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “I’m a ballplayer, and I’m a Cardinal, until I’m told I’m not. You know what I mean? And that’s all there is to it. And I’ve got a lot of work to do. I’ve got to be a better ball player, and that’s what I’m focused on.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres are believed to be among the teams Arenado would approve a trade to, while the Boston Red Sox were on his list before signing Alex Bregman in free agency. One team has reportedly shown interest, but since they are a division rival, a deal could be complicated.
Arenado had an opportunity to join an American League team this offseason but chose to block that trade. His reluctance to waive his no-trade clause aligns with the Cardinals’ recent stance that he will likely start the season in St. Louis.
Adding to the challenge of moving him, Arenado is coming off a down year by his standards, hitting .272 with just 16 home runs—his lowest full-season total since his rookie year. He’s also owed $74 million over the next three seasons, making a trade difficult unless the Cardinals are willing to absorb part of his contract.
Leave a Reply