MASSIVE MOVE: Red Sox Trade For $135 Million Pair Of Cardinals All-Stars they’re likely not willing to eat very much of the money on his deal so a trade hasn’t taken place yet but Red Sox trading for both Arenado and Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley in one blockbuster deal.

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly among the frontrunners in the pursuit of Nolan Arenado. The St. Louis Cardinals are looking to trade the All-Star third baseman to shed his sizable contract, but his no-trade clause has complicated negotiations.

The Red Sox seem like a logical fit, but they are likely unwilling to take on much of Arenado’s remaining salary, which has stalled progress on a potential deal.

Cody Williams of FanSided proposed an intriguing scenario that could make an Arenado trade more feasible for Boston. He suggests a blockbuster deal in which the Red Sox acquire both Arenado and Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley.

“Another report from Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam of MassLive on Monday connected the Red Sox to top-tier bullpen arms, specifically Tanner Scott,” Williams wrote. “But if Boston could find a way to not take on a significant portion of Arenado’s salary while also landing closer Ryan Helsley, it would make the trade far more appealing.”

If the Cardinals are willing to include Helsley in the trade, the Red Sox might agree to take on over $40 million of Arenado’s $52 million remaining contract. In return, Boston would likely need to part with several top prospects to address two significant needs on their roster.

While no reports currently indicate that such a deal is being actively discussed, it’s a scenario worth monitoring as negotiations unfold.