Nolan Arenado has spent the offseason on the trading block, with the St. Louis Cardinals making their intentions to move the eight-time All-Star abundantly clear during the MLB Winter Meetings in December. Since then, one team has emerged as the frontrunner in pursuit of Arenado.
“According to multiple league sources, the Red Sox remain Arenado’s most likely landing spot before the 2025 season,” wrote Katie Woo of The Athletic. “If Boston fails to sign Bregman, they may shift their focus to acquiring Arenado.”
The Red Sox’s defense in 2024 left much to be desired, ranking 29th in fielding percentage, 29th in errors, and allowing 95 unearned runs. Third baseman Rafael Devers recorded a -5 Outs Above Average last season, marking the fifth time in his eight-year career he has posted a similarly low figure. A move from third base to designated hitter for Devers seems inevitable—perhaps the time has finally come.
Arenado, even at age 34, would be a significant defensive upgrade. The 10-time Gold Glove winner earned his last award in 2022 and has since ranked in the 75th and 86th percentiles in Fielding Run Value over the past two seasons.
However, acquiring Arenado could create complications for Boston. With Masataka Yoshida occupying the designated hitter role and owed $54 million over the next three seasons, the Red Sox would likely need to move Yoshida to make room for Arenado.
On paper, Arenado addresses Boston’s need for improved defense and a reliable right-handed bat, but logistical challenges in fitting him onto the roster could explain the delay in a potential deal.
Despite these obstacles, the Red Sox remain the most likely destination for Arenado, with reports suggesting Boston is still his best chance of being traded before the season begins.
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