It Sure Sounds Like Nolan Arenado Is Going To Put John Mozeliak In A Tough Position
Nolan Arenado has been one of the best third basemen in baseball for the past decade. He has won eight Gold Glove Awards, four Silver Sluggers, and has been an All-Star five times. He is also one of the most durable players in the game, having played in at least 150 games in each of the past nine seasons.
However, Arenado is now 31 years old, and he is entering the final year of his contract with the St. Louis Cardinals. He is due to make $21 million in 2023, and he has a club option for $27 million in 2024.
The Cardinals have a lot of decisions to make this offseason. They need to decide whether to extend Arenado's contract, trade him, or let him walk.
Extending Arenado's contract
Extending Arenado's contract would be a significant financial commitment for the Cardinals. He is one of the highest-paid players in baseball, and he is likely to command a salary of at least $25 million per year on his next contract.
However, Arenado is still a very good player, and he could be a valuable asset to the Cardinals for the next few years. He is one of the best fielders in baseball, and he can still hit for power and average.
If the Cardinals extend Arenado's contract, they will be betting that he can continue to play at a high level for the next few years. They will also be betting that he can stay healthy, as he has had some injury problems in the past.
Trading Arenado
Trading Arenado would be a difficult decision for the Cardinals, but it might be the best option for the team. Arenado is 31 years old, and he is entering the final year of his contract. He is also due a significant salary increase in 2024.
If the Cardinals trade Arenado, they could get a significant return in prospects. They could also clear up some payroll space, which would give them more flexibility to sign other players.
However, trading Arenado would also mean losing one of the best players in baseball. He is a leader on the team, and he is one of the most popular players with the fans.
Letting Arenado walk
Letting Arenado walk would be the easiest decision for the Cardinals, but it would also be the most painful. Arenado is one of the best players in baseball, and he would be a significant loss for the team.
However, letting Arenado walk would also save the Cardinals a lot of money. They could use that money to sign other players, or they could invest it in other areas of the team.
Ultimately, the Cardinals will have to decide what is best for the team. They will have to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Conclusion
Nolan Arenado is one of the best players in baseball, but he is also entering the final year of his contract. The Cardinals have a lot of decisions to make this offseason, and they will need to carefully consider all of their options before making a decision on Arenado's future.