There’s a report circulating that St. Louis Cardinals third baseman might be open to playing first base, possibly with a new team, reducing his time at the hot corner. Meanwhile, the Oakland A’s are prioritizing several upgrades this winter, including adding a third baseman and bolstering their defensive infield. Arenado, a name synonymous with elite defense for over a decade, could fit that need perfectly.
As he approaches his age-34 season, the Cardinals may consider trading Arenado and his contract as part of a reset in 2025. For the A’s, acquiring him would bring significant benefits. Arenado is a 10-time Gold Glove winner, and while he hasn’t claimed the award in the last two seasons, he still ranked third in Outs Above Average (9) and eighth in Defensive Runs Saved (6) in 2024—well above league average. His defensive prowess would be invaluable, especially as the team focuses on ground-ball pitching strategies ahead of their move to Sacramento.
Concerns about Arenado’s offensive production have emerged, as he hasn’t been his peak seven-WAR self in recent years. However, he still delivered a solid three-WAR season in 2024, a level of production comparable to what JJ Bleday provided for the A’s last year.
There are two main challenges to such a trade. First is how Arenado, a seasoned veteran, would adapt to a roster dominated by pre-arbitration players, even if the team is trending upward. Playing in a temporary minor-league facility in Sacramento could also be a sticking point. Second, Arenado’s no-trade clause gives him the power to veto any deal, including one involving the A’s. While he’s from California, his Southern California roots mean Sacramento isn’t necessarily a draw.
To make a deal more appealing, the A’s could offer Arenado flexibility to split time between first and third base. Although Tyler Soderstrom is penciled in as the team’s first baseman, his youth and inexperience leave room for Arenado to step in when needed.
Financially, Arenado’s contract could be feasible for the A’s, who are expected to increase their payroll. He’s owed $32 million in 2025, with $5 million covered by the Rockies, and $27 million in 2026 ($5 million from Colorado). In 2027, the final year of his deal, Arenado is due $15 million. The Cardinals might also absorb part of his salary to reduce the prospect haul needed to move him, given their reset plans.
Adding a player of Arenado’s caliber would not only improve the A’s roster but also generate excitement for the franchise in its new market. While this trade isn’t a certainty, it’s a scenario worth exploring for both teams.
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