The Los Angeles Dodgers and Nolan Arenado have been linked since early in the offseason, when it appeared the St. Louis Cardinals might be looking to move on from their All-Star third baseman.
Although no trade materialized during the winter, speculation lingered that Arenado could be dealt by the trade deadline. However, former MLB executive Jim Bowden of The Athletic now believes the Dodgers would pass on such a deal.
When asked about a potential Arenado-to-Los Angeles trade, Bowden responded, “The Dodgers say no because they’re not willing to take on Arenado’s contract at this stage of his career, and they’re content with Max Muncy.”
Los Angeles had opportunities to pursue Arenado in the offseason, but talks never progressed. With the Cardinals still in the playoff race at the All-Star break, Arenado might not even consider waiving his no-trade clause—similar to how he rejected a move to the Astros earlier this year.
While Arenado’s offensive production has declined, he remains one of baseball’s premier defensive third basemen. And though Muncy has been sidelined by injury, his expected return makes a trade for Arenado even more unlikely, according to Bowden.
With a stacked roster and a focus on getting healthy, the Dodgers don’t appear to be a realistic destination for Arenado, should the Cardinals decide to make him available.