TL;DR - Scouting Report
Nolan Arenado blocks a trade to the Astros, fueling Dodgers rumors. Dive into his no-trade clause and why LA remains his top destination.
Start the Rally: Tweet This Now!Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals’ third baseman, reportedly blocked a trade to the Houston Astros, reaffirming his desire to control his future. Arenado holds a full no-trade clause and has expressed a preference for playing with the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team that aligns with his Southern California roots. According to John Denton, a Cardinals beat writer for MLB.com, Arenado believes the Dodgers are interested in him despite Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes stating, “Muncy’s going to play third base for us.”
Denton further speculates that Arenado might consider waiving his no-trade clause for the Yankees or Phillies, though this remains unconfirmed by the player or his representatives. Still, Arenado’s clear preference is the Dodgers, and he has reportedly stated he will block trades to any team unless the Dodgers explicitly decline interest.
The potential trade to the Astros fell through despite the Cardinals offering significant financial incentives. Sources indicate that St. Louis was willing to include $15–20 million to reduce Houston’s financial commitment to Arenado’s remaining contract. The eight-time All-Star is set to earn $74 million over the next three years, with Colorado covering $10 million as part of their 2021 trade agreement and $12 million deferred. Even with these financial adjustments, Arenado refused to waive his no-trade clause for Houston, ending negotiations.
The Dodgers’ current roster configuration—with Freddie Freeman at first base, Mookie Betts at shortstop, and Muncy at third—complicates the possibility of a trade. However, Arenado’s rumored insistence on the Dodgers as his primary destination underscores his leverage in the situation.
The Cardinals now face a difficult decision as they navigate Arenado’s preferences and the financial and roster implications of retaining him. His use of the no-trade clause highlights the power dynamics between star players and MLB teams, leaving many to wonder if his preferred scenario will materialize as the offseason unfolds.
