Red Sox’s $313.5M Star Could Hinder Blockbuster Trade for Cardinals’ Nolan Arenado
The Boston Red Sox’s pursuit of a potential blockbuster trade for St. Louis Cardinals’ third baseman Nolan Arenado may be complicated by the team’s current roster and financial commitments.
Arenado, a 10-time Gold Glove winner, has expressed interest in joining the Red Sox, even waiving his no-trade clause to avoid a move to the Houston Astros. However, the Red Sox’s existing payroll and roster configuration present obstacles in finalizing a deal.
A key sticking point is Boston’s third baseman Rafael Devers, who recently signed a massive $313.5 million contract with the team. With Devers firmly entrenched in the lineup, the Red Sox would need to make adjustments to accommodate Arenado, possibly shifting Devers to first base. However, this move would create a dilemma involving first baseman Triston Casas, a promising young talent that the Red Sox are not actively looking to trade.
Moreover, Arenado’s contract, which still has about $74 million owed over the next three seasons, would further impact Boston’s financial flexibility. While Arenado’s elite defense is undeniable, questions about his recent offensive decline raise concerns over his fit with the Red Sox’s long-term plans.
Despite the challenges, the Red Sox are still eyeing Arenado, but the complexities surrounding the team’s roster and payroll may ultimately prevent this high-profile trade from materializing.
