All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado declined a trade to the Houston Astros because he’s waiting on a final response from the Los Angeles Dodgers, according to St. Louis Cardinals insider John Denton.
“He doesn’t want to do something in sort of a panic move this time of year. He wants to wait and see what his best options are. I think we all know, we all understand — Nolan Arenado wants to be told ‘No’ by the Dodgers,” Denton said on ESPN Thursday.
“That’s his first choice, that’s where he still wants to go.”
In addition to Arenado wanting to join the Dodgers, Denton says L.A. is interested in the Gold Glove third baseman, despite them saying otherwise.
“The Dodgers have kind of downplayed their interest in him, they’ve mentioned how Max Muncy will be on the roster to start the season. Don’t be snookered by that. The Dodgers still want Nolan Arenado,” Denton said. “They still have interest in him. But if they talk it down and act like they’re not that interested, they might be able to get out from under some of the money.”
Earlier this month, baseball fans were sent into a frenzy after Arenado posted a series of photos on Instagram along with Kendrick Lamar’s song “dodger blue.” Many speculated Arenado was hinting toward his preferred trade destination this season.
Furthermore, Arenado, 34, has expressed his hope to play meaningful October baseball.
While it’s abundantly clear Arenado hopes to join the reigning World Series champions, are the Dodgers legitimately considering adding the 10-time Gold Glove winner to the roster?
Arenado nixing a trade to Houston is a testament to the Dodgers organization, a clubhouse players want to join and have a legitimate chance to win. While adding another star to the roster would be huge, it’s unclear where Arenado would fit since the Dodgers already have Max Muncy as their starting third baseman.
However, the Dodgers thrive on being creative and it wouldn’t be surprising if the team found a way to utilize both third basemen to the best of their abilities.
