Chris Cotillo reported that the Diamondbacks are interested in Santana, who will turn 40 during the 2026 season and made his MLB debut in 2010 with the Guardians, spending nearly 11 seasons bouncing in and out of the lineup.

Nothing is official yet, but according to Cotillo, the Diamondbacks are also exploring another player in a competitive market: “As reported last night, Diamondbacks are in on Carlos Santana as a free agent 1B target. They’ve also talked to Ty France, per source, though France has a robust market.”

How much would a player like Santana cost?

Santana is a veteran who last season was under a $760,000 contract with the Cubs, making him a potentially affordable option for the Diamondbacks, who want someone in the infield who knows how to play solid defense. It seems the team still sees that value in Santana.

Last season, Santana posted a .219 batting average across 124 games between Cleveland and Chicago, mostly with the Guardians. He totaled 91 hits, 49 runs, 11 home runs, and 54 RBIs, a season similar to 2024. At least he’s had two consecutive years with 100+ games, something he hasn’t declined from since 2020, when he played just 60 games.

With another veteran alongside Nolan Arenado, the Diamondbacks could have a more protected infield. It’s still unclear exactly how Santana would be used if signed, but he could likely fill in during late innings or a similar role.

According to information shared by Alex D’Agostino on his X account, the Diamondbacks have signed RHP Taylor Clarke to a one-year contract. Clarke most recently pitched in the league for the Kansas City Royals.

Clarke’s arrival in Arizona comes on the heels of the recent Nolan Arenado trade from the St. Louis Cardinals, as well as the addition of Judge’s former Yankees teammate, Jonathan Loaisiga. The D-Backs are clearly not looking to be mere spectators next season.

Clarke’s numbers from last season with the Royals

During his 2025 campaign with the Kansas City Royals, Taylor Clarke produced a bit of a mixed bag in the bullpen. While he managed to keep runners off the bases with a sharp 0.85 WHIP and struck out 44 batters, his 3.25 ERA and lone save across 51 appearances were considered somewhat underwhelming for high-leverage situations.

Despite these shaky flashes, his efficiency was enough to earn him a new one-year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the upcoming season. Can he show his full potential in this new stint with Arizona?

A new hope led by Marte and Arenado

The Arizona Diamondbacks are heading into the 2026 season with massive expectations, fueled by a high-powered core led by Ketel Marte and the veteran arrival of Nolan Arenado.

Fans are dreaming of a deep postseason run as Marte continues to perform at an MVP level, now perfectly complemented by Arenado’s elite gold-glove defense and consistent power at the plate.

With this dynamic duo anchoring the lineup, the D-backs believe they finally have the leadership and star power necessary to dominate the NL West and compete for a World Series title.

According to Ken Rosenthal and Nick Piecoro, Arenado is owed $42 million, and $31 million will be paid by the Cardinals, meaning the D-Backs will only pay $11 million for the third baseman. Per Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the D-Backs will pay Arenado just $5 million this season and the other $6 million in 2027.

Arenado has been one of the best third bases in baseball, but he is 34 years old now. While everyone centered the 3B sweepstakes on Alex Bregman, the D-Backs focused on landing one of the best players of the last decade, even if he is past his prime.

Arenado is past his prime but still valuable

Producing is not the only thing that matters in the MLB. Experience, leadership, and professionalism also matter a ton. Arenado has plenty of numbers decreasing in the last few years. There was a time where he led the NL in home runs and all the majors in RBIs, but that was a decade ago. In 2025, he slashed .237/.289/.377 in 436 plate appearances. For the Cardinals, he was tradeable, for the D-Backs, he is still a valuable asset.

At least the D-Backs took action to land the third baseman. For instance, during the Alex Bregman saga, the Red Sox didn’t get the warnings and ended up losing the player to the Cubs. While Arenado is not Bregman at this point in his career, the D-Backs still landed him and in a very cheap deal for them.

Are the D-Backs a contender now that they landed Arenado?

While this move certainly improves the roster, the D-Backs need a bit more to actually be considered contenders. Last season they ended 80-82, and they are in a very tough division in baseball.

The AL West is stacked, Arizona has to battle with both the Dodgers and Padres, and they might be level with the Giants in terms of roster. So while this move pushes them up the ladder, it’s still an uphill battle.

The report linking Arenado to the Halos was shared by Scott Plaza: “St. Louis will likely have to eat half or more of his remaining contract, but the potential for him to start for the Angels could be enough to facilitate a deal that could make all parties happy.”

In his article for Redbird Rants, Plaza explains that the main obstacle in any Arenado deal to Los Angeles would be his salary. Arenado still has two years remaining on his contract, and his on-field production has not met expectations for the Cardinals.

The Cardinals would have to pay if Arenado is moved

As Plaza detailed, the Cardinals would not only need to continue talks with the Angels or any other MLB team interested in Arenado, but they would also likely have to cover a significant portion of his yearly salary if he is traded.

“With two years and $42 million remaining on his contract, pairing Arenado’s salary to his stats has become a major reason for his continued time in St. Louis. Like the Cardinals did with Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras, Chaim Bloom will have to eat a large portion of that remaining money if he wants to find a match.”

One of the most complicating factors is that Arenado’s contract includes a full no-trade clause, meaning he would ultimately control whether he accepts a move to a new team. That provision could significantly complicate negotiations with any MLB club ahead of the season.

It is also not the first time the Angels and Arenado have been linked. In 2024, a report by John Denton made it clear that Los Angeles was on Arenado’s list of preferred destinations: “In addition to having the Dodgers, Padres and Angels on his wish list, Arenado would also be willing to accept a trade to the Phillies, Mets or Red Sox, per a source close to the negotiations.”

Boston has already completed two trades with the St. Louis Cardinals this offseason, building a working relationship that could influence future deals. While a third trade would be surprising, reports suggest the Red Sox are exploring alternatives to Bregman in case he leaves, including targeting two-time All-Star Eugenio Suárez as a potential replacement.

Among the names mentioned, Nolan Arenado remains the most prominent fallback, heavily linked to Boston last year. The question for the Red Sox is whether the veteran third baseman fits the current roster and payroll strategy, balancing experience with long-term team flexibility.

Is Nolan Arenado a realistic alternative?

The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal highlighted the situation: “Finally, there is Arenado, who seemed ready to waive his no-trade clause for Boston last offseason, only to remain with the Cardinals when the Red Sox signed Bregman to his three-year, $120 million contract with an opt-out after one year. Arenado, who turns 35 in April, is in offensive decline and owed $37 million over the next two seasons. Maybe he would be energized playing at Fenway and reuniting with his old Colorado Rockies teammate Trevor Story. Or maybe he would just continue to fade.”

Rosenthal emphasized the Red Sox’s priorities: “The answer for the Red Sox is Bregman. If not him, Bichette. And the way Breslow has operated this offseason, making one economically shrewd move after another, the Sox are in perfect position to strike. They have the money. Time to spend it.”

While Arenado made sense last offseason, the Red Sox now have multiple options and financial flexibility. Bo Bichette is another alternative if Bregman decides to leave, giving Boston a mix of experience and youth to consider.

Red Sox’s strategy

With both trades and free-agent moves under consideration, Boston has acted carefully to protect its farm system and maintain roster flexibility. If Bregman returns, there is little reason to pursue other options, but the team is prepared to act quickly if necessary.

The Red Sox have the payroll and organizational depth to secure their preferred targets. This offseason, every decision will determine whether Boston can continue to compete at a high level while balancing immediate success with long-term sustainability.

Leading up to the trade deadline, the Cardinals were actively entertaining offers for Arenado from several major league giants. The New York Yankees emerged as a prominent suitor, having previously expressed interest in Arenado before the start of the current season.

With Arenado remaining in St. Louis, he was placed on the IL initially for what was expected to be a brief 10-day stint at first. However, recent reports indicate setbacks in his recovery process, delaying his anticipated return to the lineup.

At first, he was expected to be back with the Cardinals in mid August, according to John Denton of MLB.com. “Nolan Arenado’s path back to MLB and the Cardinals will take him through Jupiter, Fla., where the 10-time Gold Glover will work to strengthen his shoulder and regain his swing rhythm the next 10 days before likely rejoining the team in Miami on Aug. 18,“ Denton said.

Negative report for the Cardinals about Arenado

Denton clarified that Arenado is aiming to make his comeback further than August 18th, and he would be taking longer to be back to the roster. “Nolan Arenado reported to the Cardinals Spring HQ in Jupiter, Fla., on Friday to begin what is expected to be nine to 10 days of shoulder strengthening before resuming baseball activities,” Denton said. “He is not expected to be ready by STL’s series in Miami Aug. 18-20, Oli Marmol said.”

Arenado’s impact on the Cardinals’ season

Though Arenado has been absent from the Cardinals lineup since the first week of August, his performance before stepping away left an indelible mark. Arenado’s impressive statistics were pivotal in bolstering the Cardinals’ postseason aspirations. However, the remainder of the team has struggled to deliver similar decisive play throughout the regular season.

Through 96 games and 361 at-bats, Arenado has tallied 43 runs and 85 hits. His contributions include 10 home runs and 43 RBIs, underscoring his value with a 1.0 WAR. His on-base percentage stands at .294, coupled with a .366 slugging percentage, supported by 28 walks. Though he has struck out 28 times, Arenado maintains a .235 batting average, a testament to his offensive prowess.

In his absence, the Cardinals are striving to make a notable impact as the regular season comes to a close. As they aim for a postseason berth, opportunities dwindle, yet they remain on the cusp of securing third place in the National League Central standings.

With a record of 60-47, the Astros have consistently outperformed their competition, solidifying their status as a formidable force as the postseason approaches. To maintain their competitive edge, the Astros are actively pursuing enhancements before the upcoming trade deadline.

In a notable development, reports indicate that Houston has engaged in discussions with the Cardinals regarding a potential acquisition of star third baseman Nolan Arenado. Arenado, a highly coveted player, was previously linked with the New York Yankees, who had emerged as frontrunners for his talents earlier this season.

MLB insider Jon Morosi has revealed that while the Astros and Cardinals have reportedly had conversations about Arenado, no agreement has yet been reached. “Nolan Arenado’s name has come up in trade talks between the Astros and Cardinals, but there’s no momentum toward a deal as of this morning,” Morosi noted on his social media platform, X.

Arenado garnered interest from multiple MLB franchises, including the Yankees

Before the start of the season, Arenado, the star third baseman of the Cardinals, was highly sought after by several Major League Baseball teams. Among the interested parties were the Yankees, who saw Arenado as one of the top trade prospects. Ultimately, however, Arenado chose to remain with the Cardinals for the current season.

Despite the Cardinals’ struggles to maintain a competitive record in the regular season, there remains speculation about Arenado‘s potential move to a contending team. The Astros locked in a tight battle for the top spot in the American League West standings, could benefit immensely from his proven track record and power at the plate.

Analyzing Arenado’s performance this season

While Arenado’s statistics have not hit career-high levels this season, his dynamic presence makes him an attractive target for any team seeking to solidify their lineup as the playoffs approach. Across 94 games, Arenado has logged 83 hits, including 15 doubles and a triple, alongside 10 home runs and 43 RBIs. Additionally, he has crossed home plate 43 times, showcasing his all-around offensive capabilities.

The complexity of Arenado’s situation stems from several factors that have made it difficult for him to leave St. Louis. While his career achievements are undeniable, his offensive performance has seen a slight decline in recent years. Additionally, his age and no-trade clause have significantly limited the Cardinals’ options in finding a team willing to take on his contract.

After months of stalled negotiations, Arenado arrived for the Cardinals’ spring training without any clarity on his future. Although the organization had initially been actively seeking a trade, the situation has taken an unexpected turn.

As Katie Woo of The Athletic mentioned on Foul Territory via “X”, “Neither Arenado nor John Mozeliak has closed the door on a trade, but it doesn’t seem like anything is likely to happen anytime soon… We know that Nolan gave Mozeliak five teams that he would consider a trade to. And he’s not going to expand that list. Among those destinations, the Red Sox, the Yankees, the Dodgers, and the Padres didn’t really seem to have a fit. So, right now, everyone is just kind of stuck.”

A shrinking market and uncertainty for Arenado

Nolan Arenado’s list of potential suitors has dwindled. The Boston Red Sox, once considered a viable option, have pulled out of the race after acquiring Alex Bregman. The New York Yankees, in contrast, show no interest in Arenado. The San Diego Padres, already committed to Manny Machado at third base, don’t have room for Arenado, while the Los Angeles Dodgers have made no moves toward the Cardinals’ third baseman.

Cardinals in a strong position?

Given these developments, the likelihood of Arenado remaining in St. Louis has increased. “The Cardinals can move forward as usual. They’ll continue to explore the market now and then, but for right now, they’re committed to having a 10-time Gold Glove winner at third base—guys, that’s not a bad thing to have on your roster,” Woo added via Foul Territory. In other words, the Cardinals have come to terms with the fact that having a player of Arenado’s caliber, despite his age and contract, continues to make him a valuable asset to the team.

What’s next for Arenado?

Nolan Arenado’s situation highlights how a combination of contractual obligations, player performance, and team needs can shape the MLB trade market. As the start of the 2025 season approaches, Arenado’s future remains uncertain, and it will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds.

Nolan Arenado, the tireless third baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals, has turned his MLB prowess into a considerable money-making machine, especially after the success he has achieved in recent years.

With a lucrative eight-year contract signed in 2019 with the Colorado Rockies and an extension that keeps him in St. Louis until 2027, his personal wealth has grown significantly, largely due to his immense popularity.

In addition to his salary, he has accumulated extra earnings through awards and bonuses throughout his career. The fortune of this baseball star has reached a remarkable level of success both on and off the field.

What is Nolan Arenado’s net worth?

Nolan Arenado is not only one of the best third basemen the MLB has seen in the last decade but also a businessman both on and off the field. As of February 2025, he has a net worth of $50 million, according to Sportskeeda.

With a career marked by spectacular plays, multimillion-dollar contracts, and ever-growing popularity, the St. Louis Cardinals star has turned his talent into an impressive money-making machine.

Since making his ML debut in 2013 with the Colorado Rockies, he has built a Hall of Fame-worthy career. His defensive prowess, which has earned him multiple Gold Glove Awards, and his power at the plate have made him a key player.

This excellence translated into astronomical figures when, in 2019, he signed an eight-year, $260 million contract, securing his financial future. However, the story didn’t end there.

In 2021, he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he chose not to exercise his opt-out clause and remain with the team until 2027. With an average annual salary of $35 million, he continues adding to his already impressive fortune.

But his financial success is not limited to baseball. He has also capitalized on his image with lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Nike and Rawlings, allowing him to diversify his income.

With spring training fast approaching, the Dodgers have received an intriguing proposal: the St. Louis Cardinals have reportedly reopened trade talks for star third baseman Nolan Arenado. Speculation about the Dodgers’ interest in Arenado intensified after the player posted several photos on Instagram featuring the song Dodger Blue.

“We’ve obviously stayed in touch with Kersh, and I think our sentiments are out there. We know Kersh also wants to be a Dodger for life,” Gomes told MLB insider Jon Heyman. “So we’ll continue to be in contact with him.

“On the other front, you never say never, and we’ll continue to be opportunistic in looking for ways to round out the roster. But we feel very happy with what we’ve done to this point. And if spring training started tomorrow, we feel like we’d be in a very good place,” Gomes added.

What obstacles do the Dodgers face?

The primary hurdle to a potential trade for Nolan Arenado is how much of his contract the Cardinals are willing to cover. The third baseman still has $64 million remaining on his deal, and initial negotiations in early January stalled when the Cardinals refused to absorb more than $20 million of the salary.

Cardinals beat writer John Denton explained the situation, noting that “a sticking point in any Arenado deal could come down to how much of the $64 million remaining on Arenado’s contract the Cardinals are willing to absorb.” After struggling to make progress with other trade partners throughout January, the Cardinals have re-engaged with the Dodgers, as well as the Red Sox and Yankees, to discuss potential restructured deals for the star third baseman.

How would Arenado’s arrival impact the Dodgers?

Acquiring Arenado would be a statement move for the Dodgers, adding both a power-hitting presence and an elite defender to an already stacked lineup. With his Gold Glove defense and run-producing ability, Arenado would further elevate the Dodgers’ championship aspirations, solidifying them as strong contenders to repeat as World Series champions.

The Red Sox are aiming to strengthen their offense with a power-hitting right-handed batter, and Arenado fits that profile perfectly. The eight-time All-Star and ten-time Gold Glove winner is one of the top players in the league, boasting an impressive track record that includes leading the National League in home runs three times and leading MLB in RBIs twice.

“Given that Nolan Arenado vetoed the potential deal to the Astros, some of his friends say it’s important to note: They believe he would really like the idea of going to the Red Sox, if Boston and the Cardinals can work out terms. Arenado’s current mindset: ‘Highly, highly motivated.’” ESPN’s Buster Olney reported on Wednesday.

Though his offensive production dipped slightly last season, Nolan Arenado remains a dominant player with high potential. His desire to play in Boston could be a significant advantage for the Red Sox in their negotiations with the Cardinals, who are looking to restructure their roster and make room for younger players.

The impact of Arenado’s arrival in Boston

Arenado’s move to Boston would drastically alter the landscape of the American League. His defensive prowess at third base, combined with his offensive power, could elevate the Red Sox’s performance and position them as serious contenders for the division title.

Obstacles in the trade process

However, acquiring Arenado won’t be straightforward. The Cardinals will likely demand substantial compensation for a player of his caliber. Furthermore, the Red Sox will need to consider how to integrate Arenado into their current roster, taking into account how his arrival would affect other players and salary distribution.

Despite these obstacles, the possibility of acquiring a player of Arenado’s stature presents an opportunity the Red Sox cannot overlook. If they manage to finalize the trade, it could represent a major step forward in their pursuit of an American League championship.