Are the #Dodgers interested in exploring a potential trade for superstar Nolan Arenado?#MLBNHotStove | @jonmorosi pic.twitter.com/00zB9tccJd
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) November 20, 2020
Last season, the Dodgers signing for former MVP Mookie Betts helped lift them to their first championship since 1988. Now they’ve got a new MVP caliber player on their radar for 2021.
In what will come as good news to exactly zero Giants fans, the Dodgers have interest in trading for five-time All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado, which would strip the division rival Rockies of their best player in the process.
Arenado, who will be 30 come the start of the 2021 season, has an opt out of his contract next offseason, meaning that the Rockies could lose the eight-time Gold Glover for nothing if he continues to be frustrated by the Colorado’s lack of postseason success.
There is belief that Arenado, an Orange County native, would waive his no-trade clause for an opportunity to play for his hometown club. There is also a belief that the Dodgers may prefer re-signing Arenado over the likes of Justin Turner (free agent) and Corey Seager (free agent in 2021).
“He is from Southern California, grew up a Dodgers fan, there are a lot of reasons why they’ve wanted him in years past,” Jon Morosi said on MLB Network. “And of course he signs the extension with the Rockies and people thought at that point in time it’s never going to happen. Well it might happen now because even after getting Mookie Betts, let’s not forget the Dodgers overall payroll picture. They’ve got about $70 million coming off the books following this coming season. (Clayton) Kershaw, (Kenley) Jansen, Chris Taylor and yes, Corey Seager.
“With Justin Turner being a free agent at third base, the question is not necessarily just Arenado or Turner, but Arenado or Corey Seager. We should note there is no indication that Seager is close to signing an extension with the Dodgers.
“Arenado does have the full no-trade clause, but with his roots in California we believe he would waive that no-trade clause, and yes, even push back that opt out date beyond where it is right now which is beyond the 2021 season.”
Arenado finished in the top 10 of NL MVP voting in every season from 2015-2019, finishing in the top five in 2016-2018. If Arenado does not opt out next offseason, he’s under contract with the Rockies through 2026.