The MLB hot stove is simmering with tantalizing trade possibilities as the offseason kicks into high gear. While free agency has cooled slightly since a frenzied winter meetings, the trade market is picking up the slack, with several marquee names swirling in rumors. Two that stand out above the rest: Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado and Astros third baseman Alex Bregman.
Arenado Blocks Trade to Houston
Arenado, an eight-time Gold Glove winner, recently flexed his no-trade clause to veto a potential deal to the Astros. According to sources, Houston was willing to take on $59 million of the $64 million remaining on Arenado’s contract. The 30-year-old is still an elite defender, but his offensive production has dipped since his heyday in Colorado.
The Cardinals could still try to move Arenado, either by kicking in more cash to expand his market or convincing him to waive his no-trade for a different contender. But there’s also a chance he stays put in St. Louis. Arenado’s future is one of the biggest unanswered questions of the winter.
Bregman on the Block?
Meanwhile, Bregman’s name has popped up frequently in trade chatter after a disappointing, injury-plagued 2023 season. Still just 29, the two-time All-Star would be a major prize for teams seeking a boost at the hot corner. His contract is pricey but not exorbitant – he’s owed about $100 million over the next four years.
Prying Bregman loose won’t be easy or cheap, as the Astros aren’t motivated sellers. But he’s attainable for a team willing to meet a steep asking price, likely headlined by multiple top prospects. The Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Blue Jays and Tigers are among the clubs who could make a play for Bregman.
The Astros could definitely move Bregman in the right deal. They’d want a huge haul though, probably at least two premium prospects. It would have to be an overpay.
– Anonymous MLB executive
Other Bats on the Market
Beyond the headliners, a number of useful position players are being floated as trade fodder:
- Luis Robert Jr, OF, White Sox – Speedy, power-hitting centerfielder in his prime
- Jake Cronenworth, 2B/SS, Padres – All-Star infielder who could fetch a big return
- Josh Naylor, 1B, Guardians – Slugging first baseman/DH on the block
- Lane Thomas, OF, Guardians – Underrated producer, sneaky trade candidate
Pitchers Drawing Interest
Proven starting pitchers are perpetually popular trade targets. With free agent prices soaring, these arms could be dealt:
- Luis Castillo, RHP, Mariners – Ace stuff but must waive no-trade clause
- Pablo Lopez, RHP, Twins – Minnesota listening on steady mid-rotation starter
- Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Marlins – Still just 25, Miami could sell high on talented lefty
- Jon Gray, RHP, Rangers – Consistent groundball specialist, Rangers open to offers
The bottom line: While the free agent market has slowed, there are still plenty of avenues for teams to improve via trades. The coming weeks will tell if clubs like the Cardinals, Astros and others are willing to part with stars like Arenado and Bregman. If so, it could trigger a cascade of deals that shifts the MLB landscape leading into 2025.
