Spring training is officially underway in Arizona and Florida. Even though many teams are preparing for the season, rumors about remaining free agents and trades are still buzzing.
Arenado Stays Put
St. Louis Cardinals’ president of baseball operations, John Mozeliak, announced that they are ready to keep Nolan Arenado for now. Attempts to trade him fell through this offseason. Arenado blocked a potential move to the Houston Astros using his no-trade clause. The Astros have since shifted their focus elsewhere.
Even the Boston Red Sox seemed interested at one point but opted for a different player. Arenado signed a hefty contract, with $74 million left over three years, which includes some coverage from the Colorado Rockies. The Cardinals have been willing to include extra cash in trades, but it hasn’t been enough so far. Arenado remains firm on the few teams he is willing to join.
Rumors suggest the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals might still have an eye on him. Even the Detroit Tigers could consider him now that they missed out on another player. While a trade seems unlikely right now, it’s not completely off the table.
Red Sox Eyeing Cease
The Red Sox appear to be exploring options for Padres pitcher Dylan Cease. This interest is still in the early stages, so it’s uncertain if a deal will happen. The Padres haven’t made any moves to trade Cease, especially after signing two other pitchers recently.
Besides Cease, the Red Sox have made several additions to improve their pitching lineup, including names like Garrett Crochet and Aroldis Chapman. However, Patrick Sandoval’s return remains uncertain, as he may not pitch this season.
DeJong Joins the Nationals
The Washington Nationals signed infielder Paul DeJong to a one-year contract worth $1 million for the 2025 season. DeJong, who is 31, had a decent run last season with the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals, hitting 24 home runs over 139 games. He can play as a shortstop or third baseman, adding depth to the Nationals’ roster.
