The Boston Red Sox are reportedly interested in making a big splash this offseason by pursuing a trade for Colorado Rockies star third baseman Nolan Arenado. However, there is one major obstacle standing in the way of a potential deal.
According to multiple reports, the Red Sox have had discussions with the Rockies about a possible trade for Arenado, who is considered one of the best players in baseball. The five-time All-Star has won seven Gold Glove awards and four Silver Slugger awards in his career, and would provide a significant upgrade for the Red Sox at third base.
Arenado, 29, is under contract through the 2026 season after signing an eight-year, $260 million extension with the Rockies in February 2019. He has a full no-trade clause in his contract, which means he has the power to veto any potential trade.
The biggest obstacle for the Red Sox in acquiring Arenado is his contract, which is one of the most lucrative in baseball. Arenado is owed $35 million in each of the next five seasons, and has an opt-out clause after the 2021 season. The Red Sox would need to find a way to fit Arenado’s salary into their payroll while also addressing other needs on their roster.
In addition to his salary, the Red Sox would likely need to part with multiple top prospects in order to acquire Arenado. The Rockies are reportedly seeking a significant return for their franchise player, and it would likely take a package of young talent to get a deal done.
Despite the obstacles, there are reasons to believe that a trade for Arenado could make sense for the Red Sox. The team is coming off a disappointing 2020 season in which they finished last in the American League East with a 24-36 record. Adding a player of Arenado’s caliber could help the Red Sox get back on track and compete for a playoff spot in 2021.
Arenado would also provide a much-needed upgrade at third base for the Red Sox. Boston’s current third baseman, Rafael Devers, struggled defensively in 2020 and has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason. Adding Arenado would not only improve the Red Sox’s defense at third base, but also give them a reliable bat in the middle of their lineup.
Of course, acquiring Arenado would come with risks as well. The Red Sox would be committing a significant amount of money to one player, which could limit their ability to address other needs on their roster. There are also questions about how Arenado’s production will translate outside of the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field, where he has spent his entire career.
Despite the obstacles and risks, the Red Sox appear to be serious about their pursuit of Arenado. If they can find a way to overcome the financial and prospect hurdles, a trade for Arenado could be a game-changer for Boston and put them back in contention in the American League East.
As the offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see if the Red Sox are able to pull off a deal for Arenado. If they are successful, it could be the move that propels them back to the top of the AL East and makes them a serious contender in 2021 and beyond.
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