The Los Angeles Dodgers already boast one of the most dangerous lineups in baseball—but imagine adding Nolan Arenado to the mix. With the St. Louis Cardinals stumbling in the NL Central and beginning to entertain the idea of a retool, a blockbuster Arenado trade to L.A. could finally materialize.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of a perfect Dodgers trade proposal for Nolan Arenado—one that helps both franchises and electrifies MLB.
🔁 The Perfect Trade Proposal
Dodgers Receive:
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3B Nolan Arenado
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Cash considerations (to help cover remaining contract)
Cardinals Receive:
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RHP Gavin Stone (Top pitching prospect)
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2B/SS Michael Busch (MLB-ready infielder with power)
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RHP River Ryan (High-upside, mid-level pitching prospect)
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Cash relief (up to 40% of Arenado’s remaining deal)
💥 Why This Trade Works for the Dodgers
The Dodgers are built to win now. With Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, and Freddie Freeman, they already have an MVP core—but third base remains a question mark with Max Muncy’s inconsistency and defensive limitations.
Arenado’s Fit:
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8× Gold Glove winner
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Elite defensive anchor at third base
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Veteran postseason presence
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Could hit 6th or 7th in the Dodgers’ lineup—unreal depth
By absorbing part of his salary, the Dodgers avoid completely gutting their farm while still acquiring an All-Star third baseman. Arenado also has a full no-trade clause, but has previously expressed admiration for the Dodgers organization—and a real shot at a ring may sway him.
🧩 Why It Works for the Cardinals
St. Louis is stuck in no-man’s land—not quite rebuilding, but nowhere near contending. They’ve got payroll bloat, a misaligned core, and a need to reboot around younger talent.
Cardinals’ Benefits:
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Gavin Stone instantly becomes one of their best young starters
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Michael Busch offers MLB-ready offensive upside at 2B/3B
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River Ryan adds depth to a thin farm pitching-wise
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Shedding Arenado’s salary opens space for future moves
Rather than hold onto a depreciating asset, the Cardinals get three high-value pieces and reset their timeline with purpose.
🔮 The X-Factor: Arenado’s Contract & Opt-Outs
Arenado signed a massive 8-year, $260 million contract with the Rockies in 2019, later traded to St. Louis. He opted into the remaining five years in 2022, meaning he’s owed over $100 million through 2027.
To make the deal more feasible, L.A. would likely request cash relief, similar to how Colorado subsidized Arenado’s initial move to St. Louis. The Dodgers’ deep pockets and competitive window make this a workable scenario.
⚾ Final Thoughts: Win-Win for Both Sides
The Dodgers need defense and experience at third base. The Cardinals need a youth movement and payroll flexibility. This trade proposal checks all the boxes—and could reshape the balance of power in both leagues.
If St. Louis does decide to hit the reset button, expect L.A. to be at the front of the line with a compelling package. And if this deal happens, it could go down as one of the biggest mid-season moves in recent memory.
