The Chicago Cubs’ pursuit of third baseman Alex Bregman fell just short as they were outbid by the Boston Red Sox, despite a reported offer of four years and $120 million. Key factors behind Jed Hoyer’s strong interest included Bregman’s availability just a week before Spring Training and his potential fit on the team.
In the aftermath, Hoyer admitted to being “obviously disappointed” by missing out on the opportunity to sign such a talented player. However, he also recognized that the offer was “a financial stretch beyond our budget.”
Despite this, Hoyer didn’t rule out further additions to the team, though he suggested that any future acquisitions would likely be more budget-friendly. He also highlighted that the organization would have the flexibility to make moves during the season if needed.
If Hoyer wanted to explore further options at third base, one trade target he could consider is Nolan Arenado. While he is on a team division rival, one MLB Insider said that he theoretically is a fit for the Chicago Cubs.
Chicago Cubs theoretically a fit for Nolan Arenado
Even with third base prospect Matt Shaw expected to contribute at the big league level in 2025, the Cubs serious pursuit of Bregman is revealing in the fact that they were not afraid to add a proven star who plays the same position. Nolan Arenado is just that as he has 10 gold gloves, six platinum gloves, eight All-Star appearances, and six silver slugger awards to his name.
What’s next for Nolan Arenado? Well, one team that would be a theoretical fit would be the Cubs, one of the teams that missed out on Alex Bregman. They need a third baseman, while the Cards are trying to move the player and money… But St. Louis would have to get comfortable…
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) February 13, 2025
At the plate, Arenado is a career .285/.342/.515 hitter. His slugging, power, and overall offensive production dipped a season ago, but he still hit a respectable .272/.325/.394 with 17 home runs and 71 RBI. If Chicago is still interested in adding a veteran at the position, he is the best option available.
Trading Nolan Arenado has proved to be tricky for the St. Louis Cardinals
With players starting to report to camp, Cardinals executive John Mozeliak has indicated that Arenado is “likely to be a part of our club at this point.” Mozeliak said that Arenado did not have a ton of suitors this off-season. His stance could change with one phone call, but getting Arenado to waive his full no-trade clause and getting the receiving organization to take on a chunk of his remaining $74 million salary may prove to be difficult.
One notable aspect of Arenado’s contract is the built-in deferrals extending until 2041. Hoyer recently mentioned that deferrals go against the organization’s “philosophical approach.” Additionally, Arenado is three years older than Bregman, and after a season showing signs of regression, he doesn’t seem like as strong a fit for the Cubs.
All that being said, despite Buster Olney calling the Cubs a theoretical fit for Arenado, it seems unlikely that Chicago seriously pursues this avenue.
Chicago Cubs financial riff a reason why they did not land Alex Bregman
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