While it remains uncertain whether the Red Sox are seriously pursuing Cardinals star third baseman Nolan Arenado, the eight-time All-Star would not oppose such a move if they do decide to make a push for him.
Boston is reportedly a favored destination — if not the top choice — for Arenado, who holds a full no-trade clause. According to industry sources, the 33-year-old has already used that clause to block a trade to Houston in December. If the Red Sox and Cardinals can agree on terms, Arenado would readily waive his no-trade clause to join Boston.
Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak has made Arenado, under contract for three more seasons, widely available this offseason as the team looks to reduce payroll. However, St. Louis has struggled to find a suitable trade partner, partly due to Arenado’s rejection of a move to the Astros. Houston has since pivoted, acquiring first baseman Christian Walker and third baseman Isaac Paredes. The Cardinals are expected to continue exploring all options to secure fair value for Arenado before Opening Day.
Arenado would be a challenging fit for the Red Sox, as they already have Rafael Devers firmly established at third base. While team officials have publicly stated that Devers remains their third baseman, there has been quiet interest in reshaping the infield this winter. The Red Sox have explored potential moves for both Arenado and free agent Alex Bregman. If Bregman were to sign, he might shift to second base, but Arenado, a 10-time Gold Glove winner, is unlikely to move from third. This scenario could result in Devers transitioning to first base, replacing Triston Casas.
Despite chief baseball officer Craig Breslow’s insistence that the team is not shopping Casas, industry speculation suggests the Red Sox might be open to trading him for young pitching as part of broader roster adjustments. The Red Sox have reportedly discussed Casas in trade talks with the Mariners and other teams this offseason, though no deal has materialized.
“We’re not shopping Triston,” Breslow said Monday. “We see him as a long-term middle-of-the-lineup bat for Boston. He has tremendous power, plate discipline, and on-base ability, and we’re excited to see what he can do after a fully healthy offseason.”
Having already bolstered their rotation with Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler, the Red Sox are now focused on adding a right-handed bat before Opening Day. Arenado’s offensive profile, which fits well at Fenway Park, would address this need while providing elite infield defense. His contract, however, adds complexity. Arenado is owed $74 million over the next three years, though $10 million of that will be covered by the Rockies in 2025 and 2026. If the Cardinals do not contribute to his salary, Boston would be responsible for $64 million, with payments of $27 million in 2025, $22 million in 2026, and $15 million in 2027, some of which is deferred.
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