Red Sox could pursue Nolan Arenado as star 1B heads to injury list

Just as the Boston Red Sox were starting to gain some momentum in their playoff chase, the bottom fell out. Slugger first baseman Triston Casas was lost for the season with a knee injury suffered in a collision at first base, leaving a hole to fill in the infield and in the batting order. Now, as the front office looks to get off the mat somehow, one name has resurfaced — Nolan Arenado. The St. Louis Cardinals have been trying to trade the veteran third baseman, and the Red Sox, suddenly in need of infield help, may finally be a match.So rather than stand pat for the next few seasons, as top prospect Triston Casas (currently held back by a sprained thumb) plays his way up to the majors, the Red Sox could fast-track a maneuver that’s been whispered about inside the team for some time. Devers has been competent at third, but he has never been a defensive secret, and moving him over to first could both help the team’s collective glove work and extend his career. That would, of course, open up third base — where Arenado would fit perfectly.He had a tough year in 2024, but the veteran Gold Glover is making a comeback in 2025, and he still provides imposing defensive value and leadership. He was in his prime, but he has the potential to bolster any lineup. For the Red Sox, Arenado would represent a pure stopgap solution, but could also represent a longer-term fix at the hot corner.Any deal involving Arenado will come with financial considerations. The Cardinals are reportedly insistent that any team trading for him absorb a significant chunk of his remaining contract. With the Red Sox now in need and willing to compete, St. Louis might find itself in a rare position of leverage.The potential deal is complicated by the presence in the Cardinals’ front office of Chaim Bloom. Bloom had previously headed Boston’s baseball operations and had played a big part in drafting and developing many of their current prospects. His knowledge of Boston’s farm system could also expedite conversations and close valuation gaps. It might not just be speculation: An Arenado-to-Boston blockbuster could happen if the stars align.Also Read: Red Sox’s Alex Bregman is one swing away from joining the 200 HR club