The New York Yankees continue to make moves as they work to retool a roster that was previously a World Series contender. Their latest addition is first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, the 2022 National League MVP and a seven-time All-Star, who signed a $12.5 million contract with the team.
This move is significant not only for the immediate boost Goldschmidt brings but also because it could help open the door for the Yankees to add another quality infielder, a position they need to address.
Nolan Arenado, the star third baseman who spent the last four years alongside Goldschmidt with the St. Louis Cardinals, is one of the top players potentially available this offseason.
The Yankees have already shown interest in Arenado, and his former teammate’s presence in New York could influence his decision to waive his no-trade clause. MLB.com reports that the Yankees’ acquisition of Goldschmidt could help convince Arenado to join the team if a trade is pursued.
However, the Yankees’ initial attempts to trade for Arenado were unsuccessful due to the Cardinals’ lack of interest in taking on Marcus Stroman’s contract.
Arenado, 33, still has three years remaining on his eight-year, $260 million deal. However, his no-trade clause complicates any deal. Recently, Arenado listed six teams to which he would approve a trade, but the Yankees were not on that list.
The teams Arenado did mention included the Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Diego Padres.
Despite this, the Yankees remain motivated to add an infielder, particularly at third base, as they likely plan to move Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to second base in 2025.
If a trade for Arenado falls through, the Yankees have another option in free agent Alex Bregman, most recently with the Houston Astros.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that Bregman could command a contract worth around $200 million, with the Yankees among the teams pursuing him. However, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reports that the Red Sox are currently leading the chase for Bregman.
If the Red Sox secure Bregman, it would make the Yankees’ pursuit of Arenado even more crucial for their 2025 World Series ambitions.
