MLB Trade Rumors: Nolan Arenado to the Phillies?

The St. Louis Cardinals have reportedly given third baseman Nolan Arenado the okay to pursue a trade away from “baseball heaven.” In turn, the ten-time Rawlings Gold Glove Award winner has named six teams he’d be willing to be traded to, including the Philadelphia Phillies. 

The Phillies organization has long sought a trade for Arenado dating back to his time with the Colorado Rockies. So, it should come as no surprise they are interested now, especially with rumors of a roster shakeup including a potential trade of infielder Alec Bohm.

But would it make sense to trade for Arenado at this point in his career?

There’s no disputing the greatness of Arenado’s first 12 Major League seasons including eight All-Star appearances and five Louisville Silver Slugger awards in addition to his Gold Glove hardware. He’s a three-time National League home run leader (2015, 2016, 2018) and a two-time NL RBI champion (2015, 2016)

But…

Arenado will turn 34-years-old at the beginning of the 2025 MLB Regular season, and despite past greatness, he’s shown some decline over the past few seasons in St. Louis. There’s also the issue of his contract; Arenado is owed $74 million over the next three seasons. Yeah, the Rockies are chipping in $10 million, but that’s still a huge chunk of change for an aging player. Not to mention, the Cards will likely want some top-level prospects in exchange for the future Hall of Famer. 

Does it make sense for the Phillies? No, likely not, but never say never with this ownership group.