In a spectacular three-player trade, the Dodgers could obtain Nolan Arenado for $8.5 million.

A Spectacular Three-Player Trade: Dodgers Potentially Acquiring Nolan Arenado for $8.5 Million

The Los Angeles Dodgers, a franchise known for its blockbuster trades and high-profile acquisitions, could be on the verge of executing one of the most significant trades of the 2025 MLB offseason: acquiring the elite third baseman Nolan Arenado for a mere $8.5 million. In a deal that could have far-reaching implications for the Dodgers’ pursuit of a World Series title, this trade would see one of the game’s best defensive players and power hitters join a roster already packed with stars.

Arenado’s potential move to the Dodgers would not only be a huge step for the team in terms of bolstering their lineup but also a significant shift in the MLB landscape. For the Dodgers, who are perennial contenders with a proven track record of success, acquiring a player like Arenado could be the final piece needed to cement their status as favorites for the 2025 championship.

This article will examine the details of this proposed trade, explore why the Dodgers are pursuing Arenado, and analyze the broader impact this deal would have on both the Dodgers and their rivals, as well as the overall dynamics of the MLB.

Nolan Arenado: A Glimpse Into His Career

Before diving into the trade specifics, it’s crucial to understand the player the Dodgers are pursuing. Nolan Arenado is widely regarded as one of the best third basemen in Major League Baseball. Over the course of his career, Arenado has built a reputation not only for his stellar bat but also for his remarkable defense at third base. A six-time Gold Glove winner, Arenado has long been considered one of the most valuable defensive players in the game. His glove is a key part of his identity, with many regarding him as a generational talent in the field.

Offensively, Arenado has also been a force. A career .290 hitter, Arenado has consistently hit for both power and average. With seven 30-homer seasons under his belt, including a career-high of 42 home runs in 2019, he remains one of the most feared hitters in the game. His ability to produce runs, combined with his elite defensive skills, makes him one of the most well-rounded players in baseball.

Arenado’s career trajectory has been closely followed by fans and analysts alike, especially after he made the decision to leave the Colorado Rockies for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2021. Despite playing for a team that was not always in contention, Arenado continued to shine. In his time with the Cardinals, he has remained among the league’s elite at third base, continuing to deliver impressive offensive production while providing strong leadership in the locker room.

However, the possibility of Arenado leaving the Cardinals in favor of the Dodgers would represent a seismic shift in his career. Moving to Los Angeles, a team known for its star power and championship pedigree, could open a new chapter in Arenado’s pursuit of a World Series title.

The Trade Proposal: Dodgers Sending Three Players for Arenado

The proposal at the heart of this trade is a three-player exchange, with the Dodgers parting ways with three members of their roster in exchange for Arenado. According to the structure of the deal, the Dodgers would send two position players and a pitcher to the St. Louis Cardinals in return for the highly coveted third baseman. With Arenado set to be paid just $8.5 million, the financial flexibility of the deal makes it a no-brainer for the Dodgers, who could add a player of his caliber without needing to drastically alter their payroll.

The first player the Dodgers might part with is a veteran position player, someone who has proven themselves but might no longer have a starting role with the team. This could be a player like Max Muncy, who has been a key part of the Dodgers’ lineup in recent years but might be a candidate to move with the emergence of younger talent or a shift in the team’s strategic needs. Muncy’s bat would be appealing to the Cardinals, especially given his ability to hit for power and get on base at a solid clip.

Next, the Dodgers might send a younger position player who could provide long-term value for the Cardinals. A player like James Outman, a promising outfielder with a strong glove and a potential bat, could be included in the deal. Outman has shown flashes of brilliance in limited MLB action, and the Cardinals may be intrigued by his upside as they look to rebuild or retool their roster for the future.

The final piece of the trade would likely be a pitcher, someone with potential who could help the Cardinals in their rotation or bullpen. Tony Gonsolin, a talented right-hander with a proven track record of success, could be an ideal candidate. Gonsolin has been an important piece of the Dodgers’ pitching staff but might be expendable given the team’s depth on the mound. For the Cardinals, Gonsolin’s ability to eat innings and contribute in a variety of roles would make him a valuable addition.

Together, these three players form a package that provides the Cardinals with both immediate contributors and future potential. While it’s always difficult to part with talent, the Dodgers’ willingness to give up several key pieces for a player like Arenado shows their commitment to winning now and positioning themselves for a World Series championship in 2025.

The Dodgers’ Motivation: A Final Push for a Championship

For the Dodgers, acquiring Nolan Arenado represents a significant step in their continued pursuit of a World Series title. While the team has been a perennial contender, their lack of a championship in recent years has left fans and management alike hungry for another title. The addition of Arenado would give the Dodgers an elite third baseman who not only improves their defense but also provides a potent bat in the middle of their already deep lineup.

The Dodgers’ offense has been consistently one of the best in the league, with Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Will Smith leading the charge. However, adding Arenado would elevate the offense to another level. Known for his ability to drive in runs, Arenado could seamlessly slot into the Dodgers’ lineup, providing protection for their star hitters and solidifying a middle-of-the-order that would strike fear into opposing pitchers.

Defensively, Arenado’s presence at third base would further bolster a Dodgers’ infield that already includes elite defenders like Freeman at first base and Gavin Lux at shortstop. His ability to make highlight-reel plays and save runs with his glove would complement the Dodgers’ pitching staff and provide the team with even more confidence as they head into the postseason.

Furthermore, the financial aspect of the trade is significant. At $8.5 million, Arenado’s contract is a relative bargain considering his talent. The Dodgers, with their deep pockets and luxury-tax flexibility, have the resources to make this deal without significantly altering their long-term financial outlook. This is a rare opportunity for a team with championship aspirations to acquire a player of Arenado’s caliber at a price that feels like a steal.

By making this trade, the Dodgers are signaling that they are all-in on 2025. With an aging core of players like Clayton Kershaw and a window that may soon begin to close, the team is looking to maximize its chances at another title. Arenado, who is known for his leadership and experience, would fit seamlessly into the Dodgers’ culture and add another championship-caliber player to their roster.

The Impact on the St. Louis Cardinals

On the flip side, the St. Louis Cardinals’ decision to trade Nolan Arenado to the Dodgers reflects the team’s ongoing efforts to retool their roster. While Arenado is one of the best third basemen in the game, the Cardinals might be looking to move in a new direction, whether it’s due to financial considerations, the emergence of younger players, or a shift in their overall strategy.

The players the Cardinals would receive in return — Muncy, Outman, and Gonsolin — would give them immediate depth and long-term potential. Muncy’s bat would immediately help fill the void left by Arenado’s departure, and the addition of Outman could provide them with an exciting young outfielder to develop over the coming years. Gonsolin, meanwhile, would add stability to a Cardinals pitching staff that could use reinforcements, especially if they are looking to compete in the tough National League Central.

Additionally, trading Arenado could open up financial flexibility for the Cardinals, allowing them to pursue other areas of need. The $8.5 million that Arenado is owed in 2025 is a manageable figure for the Dodgers, but for the Cardinals, it may be a piece of financial flexibility that can help them reallocate resources to other key areas, such as bolstering their bullpen or adding another bat to their lineup.

While it would be tough for the Cardinals to part with one of the best players in the game, the move could signal a new phase in their rebuild or retooling efforts. The players they receive in return could help accelerate that process, particularly if they are able to develop younger talent and add new pieces to their core.

A Potential MLB Power Shift

The proposed trade of Nolan Arenado to the Los Angeles Dodgers would undoubtedly have ripple effects across the entire MLB landscape. For the Dodgers, this move would solidify their place as one of the favorites in the National League, giving them even more firepower and defensive strength. With the San Diego Padres and Atlanta Braves also looking to contend, the addition of Arenado would tip the scales further in favor of the Dodgers, who would boast one of the most well-rounded and star-studded rosters in the league.

For the Cardinals, the trade could mark the beginning of a new era. While trading away one of their best players is never easy, the return package could set them up for future success. As teams like the Dodgers continue to build their rosters for immediate contention, the Cardinals may be looking toward a longer-term rebuild, focusing on developing young talent and laying the foundation for future championship aspirations.