The New York Yankees are still interested in acquiring Nolan Arenado, an eight-time All-Star third baseman, from the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite Arenado’s hefty $25.5 million salary for the next three years, the Yankees may find ways to manage the financial challenges to bring him to New York.
A Trade Likely Involving Marcus Stroman
To make the trade work, the Yankees are likely to include Marcus Stroman, who is under contract for $18.5 million in 2026
Although Stroman has only one year left on his deal, his contract includes a player option for 2026 if he pitches over 140 innings, which complicates the financial aspects of the trade.
Moving Stroman to the Cardinals could help offset Arenado’s salary. Alternatively, the Cardinals would need to cover a substantial portion of Arenado’s contract for the trade to be viable for the Yankees.
Reports suggest that the Cardinals were willing to pay $15-20 million of Arenado’s salary in a previous deal that fell through when Arenado vetoed the trade.
Arenado’s Performance and Fit with the Yankees
At 33 years old, Arenado remains one of the top defensive players in baseball, though his offense has slightly declined in recent years.
In 2024, Arenado played 152 games, hitting .273/.325/.394 with 16 home runs, 71 RBIs, and a 102 wRC+. While these numbers are decent, his power may not fully play in Yankee Stadium, given his tendency to hit line drives and fly balls to center and left field, areas less suited for home runs.
However, Arenado’s elite defense would be a major asset for the Yankees. The eight-time Gold Glove winner posted six defensive runs saved and nine outs above average in 2024, playing 1,268.1 innings at third base. His exceptional fielding would provide stability to the Yankees’ infield and reduce errors.
Impact on the Yankees’ Infield
Arenado’s addition would allow the Yankees to shift Jazz Chisholm back to second base, his natural position. Chisholm’s athleticism and range are best utilized at second, and this move would strengthen the infield overall.
Arenado’s consistent defense at third base would also complement the Yankees’ pitching staff, boosting run prevention for a team aiming to contend.
Financial Considerations and Strategic Moves
The Yankees are already nearing the $300 million luxury tax threshold, so acquiring Arenado would require financial adjustments.
Trading Stroman or other players with significant contracts, like Trent Grisham, could provide the needed flexibility. However, the Cardinals’ willingness to absorb part of Arenado’s contract will likely be the key factor in whether the deal happens.
Balancing Defense and Offensive Needs
While Arenado’s offense may not fully capitalize on Yankee Stadium’s dimensions, his defensive skills and leadership make him a strong target for the Yankees.
While he might not drastically change their offense, his defensive prowess would help prevent runs, which is a key priority for Brian Cashman this offseason.
