For some seasons now, the New York Yankees have had some problems in getting a reliable third baseman and at the same time adding a slugger who can strengthen their already powerful lineup.
During the past offseason, there was talk of the possible arrival of Nolan Arenado, from the St. Louis Cardinals, who at the start of this season is batting for an average of .256, somewhat below the .284 he has maintained throughout his MLB career, which began in 2013 playing for the Colorado Rockies.
During the 2024 season, the Yankees played at third base with Jazz Chisholm Jr., who has already returned to his usual position at second base, but it seems that the issue has more to do with the contract of the 34-year-old and 10-time Gold Glove winner.
Arenado signed a $260 million contract, which has three years and $52 million remaining with the Cardinals.
“If he were a free agent, I don’t think he would get as much money as he is owed. The name is better than the game right now,” MLB analyst Joel Sherman said. “I don’t see them (the Yankees) trying to solve third base when their lineup is not the problem.”
Sherman himself indicated that for now the priority for the Yankees would have to be to add another starting pitcher to their rotation, while St. Louis needs a trade for the player to add at least a couple of prospects for the future.
Detroit joins Arenado’s options
Although in recent days there has been talk of the possibility of Arenado joining the Dodgers’ infield, current MLB executive Jim Bowden, a former Cincinnati Reds manager, explained that a trade between the Cardinals and the Detroit Tigers could be beneficial for both parties.
“If Arenado approves a trade to Detroit, putting together a prospect package should be much easier than agreeing how much of his remaining salary St. Louis would absorb,” Bowden said, highlighting the $52 million St. Louis owes Arenado through the 2027 season.
In return, the Cardinals would receive Carson Rucker and Josh Randall for Arenado, as well as giving more playing time to their prospects Thomas Saggese and Nolan Gorman at third base to improve their skills at the position.
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