Colorado Rockies star third baseman Nolan Arenado is the hottest name on the trade market. While his relationship with the organization is deteriorating, an Arenado trade appears to be unlikely before spring training.
According to The Denver Post’s Patrick Saunders, multiple people inside the Rockies’ organization have indicated that Arenado is “highly unlikely” to be traded before spring training. If a trade were to happen, it’s far more likely to take place during the season if the Rockies struggle early in the year.
Arenado is just a year removed from signing an eight-year, $260 million extension with the Rockies. However, the team struggled in 2019 and with multiple holes on the roster and a small budget, Colorado started listening to offers this offseason for its star third baseman.
The 28-year is coming off another All-Star campaign and won his seventh consecutive Gold Glove Award for his defense at third base. Arenado hit posted a .962 OPS with 41 home runs and 118 RBI this past season as he continues to play at an MVP-caliber level.
Of course, trading Arenado is more complicated by Arenado’s contract. He holds a player option following the 2021 season, which would allow him to become a free agent. Arenado also holds a no-trade clause, which he could use to block a trade or extract additional incentives from his new team.
Given the relationship between Arenado and the organization doesn’t seem to be improving, it might be a matter of when he is traded rather than if.