"Nolan Arenado is on a rapid decline" - MLB sportscaster dismisses Cardinals star as Mets' Pete Alonso replacement
With the St. Louis Cardinals shopping third baseman Nolan Arenado this offseason, many believe that he would be a good option for the New York Mets if they lose Pete Alonso.
While Alonso has becomje a free agent this winter, New York will likely try to re-sign him, as he remains one of their best players in the roster. However, it they lose him to another team, podcaster Evan Roberts believes that Arenado would be a poor second choice for the Mets:
"This offseason can be had without making any kind of trade for a position player. Nolan Arenado will be 34 in early April, he still has three years left on his deal. ... I don't think that's the problem of the team that acquires him.
"So the money is not bad on Arenado, I just think he's on a rapid decline. Obviously getting Arenado would be a back-up plan if they lose Pete Alonso. ... I don't think he has a lot left, that's my big hesitation."
Nolan Arenado, selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 2009 MLB Draft, made his major league debut in 2013.
He soon established himself as one of the best sluggers in the country, finishing as the NL home run leader thrice and NL RBI leader twice over the years. Despite being a eight-time All-Star, the St. Louis Cardinals are looking to offload him this winter as they look to build a roster based on long-term development.
Arenado has been linked with several teams this season. However, as he appreoaches his 34th birthday, his numbers have steadily declined. In 2024, the third baseman recorded his lowest OPS since his rookie season.
However, as it looks more likely that he will find a new team by next year, it remains to be seen if he can turn things around and put up the numbers he once did earlier in his career.
Cardinals infielder Nolan Arenado drops a huge hint about a potential move to the Dodgers
While St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado's future with the team remains uncertain, his post on Instagram contained a huge hint about his future.
In the midst of his offseason with his family, Arenado posted several pictures on social media, with Kendrik Lamar's song "dodger blue" playing in the background.
MLB fans across the country have taken it as a hint that Arenado wants to join the Los Angeles Dodgers as the Mets look to offload him this winter.