MLB Rumors: Nolan Arenado Would Have Done This For Red Sox Trade

Nolan Arenado really wanted to get traded out of the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Boston Red Sox seemed to be his only hope.

St. Louis reportedly drove a tough bargain on inquiring teams as one of the big “sticking points” in negotiations reportedly was the 33-year-old’s hefty salary. Alex Bregman’s market also played a factor, too, and once Boston signed the two-time World Series champion, it was too late for St. Louis to find other suitors.

The Athletic’s Katie Woo reported Friday that at least nine teams inquired about an Arenado trade. The Gold Glove third baseman held the power in negotiations and would only waive his no-trade clause to five teams. However, that didn’t mean the All-Star wouldn’t make concessions to a new team.

“Arenado also said he would be willing to move to first base, or at least play third base less frequently if it would lead to a trade,” Woo reported.

The veteran infielder reportedly was “highly, highly motivated” to join the Red Sox, who “engaged” in trade discussions a week before signing Bregman. Arenado’s fit would have been tougher to figure out in Boston. However, if Arenado was willing to switch positions, that would have eased his transition.

Alex Cora won’t have to worry about that as he decides the best fit for Alex Bregman alongside Rafael Devers.