DALLAS — Are trades for Nolan Arenado and Garrett Crochet imminent? The winter meetings are buzzing with speculation and activity.
This year’s event, hosted at the sprawling 45-acre Hilton Anatole resort, promises to be a pivotal week for the baseball industry. Executives, managers, player agents, and reporters are all converging in what is often considered the most thrilling phase of MLB’s offseason.
The excitement kicked off with generational slugger Juan Soto’s surprising decision to join the Mets, setting the stage for an avalanche of trades and signings. As the week unfolds, here’s what FOX Sports is hearing from various corners of the league.
Nolan Arenado is open to being traded
The 10-time Gold Glove winner may have played his last game in St. Louis. Reports indicate that the Cardinals are “motivated to move him,” and Arenado is considering a trade to a win-now team, as stated by his agent, Joel Wolfe. Daily discussions are taking place between Arenado and Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak regarding potential trade scenarios. Wolfe has mentioned that the six-time Platinum Glove third baseman is even willing to switch positions to facilitate a move.
“Nolan wanted to offer it and say, ‘I’m happy to play first. I can move around and play third,'” Wolfe noted recently. “He’s open to playing shortstop or any position that helps the team. Nolan is not opposed to playing first base and believes he can win a Gold Glove there if necessary, as many teams value versatility.” This proactive approach has reportedly been well-received by interested parties.
However, Arenado holds a full no-trade clause, meaning he must approve any potential move. Wolfe emphasized that Arenado’s priority is to join a team that is committed to winning now and consistently throughout his career. He seeks a franchise that is “putting the pedal to the metal,” and given the Cardinals’ focus on reallocating payroll, it seems mutually beneficial for both sides to explore new opportunities. Yet, the path to a trade will not be straightforward.
Turning 34 this April, Arenado is owed $74 million over the next three years, with the Rockies covering $10 million. Any team interested in acquiring him would need to take on $64 million for a veteran who, while once a superstar, has shown signs of decline. In 2024, he hit only 16 home runs, posted a .394 slugging percentage compared to his career average of .515, and recorded a 101 OPS+.
Garrett Crochet could be dealt this week
The White Sox’s Garrett Crochet has been a frequent subject of trade rumors, and a source has informed FOX Sports that a deal could finally materialize this week. Despite skepticism surrounding previous trade discussions, it appears that the White Sox are earnest about negotiating a deal before the winter meetings conclude. This development should excite contending teams, as Crochet is regarded as one of the most sought-after starting pitchers available on the market.
Boras expected to have an even bigger week
Scott Boras, the renowned agent, is managing a roster of high-profile clients, including first baseman Pete Alonso, third baseman Alex Bregman, and right-handed starter Corbin Burnes. With last offseason’s protracted signing period fresh in mind, Boras may feel pressure to expedite agreements for his players. Notable names that experienced delayed signings last year included Cody Bellinger (Feb. 27, 2024), Matt Chapman (March 2), Blake Snell (March 19), J.D. Martinez (March 23), and Jordan Montgomery (March 29).
