Red Sox Weigh Third Base Options Amid Nolan Arenado Trade Rumors

BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox are navigating a potential logjam at third base as trade rumors swirl around St. Louis Cardinals star Nolan Arenado. While Rafael Devers remains the franchise cornerstone at the position, the team is reportedly considering adding Arenado, a 10-time Gold Glove winner, to bolster their lineup.

Trevor Story, the Red Sox shortstop and former teammate of Arenado with the Colorado Rockies, addressed the speculation during Fenway Fest on Saturday. “Raffy’s the face. He’s our best player,” Story told reporters, per MassLive‘s Chris Cotillo. “But if Hall of Fame players are reaching out to want to be on your team, that’s something you have to entertain.”

Arenado, who has a no-trade clause, has reportedly expressed interest in joining the Red Sox if a deal materializes. However, his arrival would likely require moving Devers from third base, a scenario the team has not yet discussed with their star player. Manager Alex Cora emphasized the importance of communication, stating, “Before we get to that point, we’ll talk to Raffy. Let’s put it that way.”

The Red Sox are also exploring other options, including free agent Alex Bregman, who could potentially shift to second base without disrupting Devers. Arenado, however, lacks positional versatility, having cemented himself as one of the game’s elite third basemen. Despite a dip in offensive production over the past two seasons (.746 OPS, 42 home runs), Story remains confident in Arenado’s abilities. “He’s still Nolan Arenado. He’s still a Hall of Fame-type player,” Story said.

Meanwhile, first baseman Triston Casas addressed rumors of his inclusion in trade talks, stating that the Red Sox have assured him they want him to remain with the team long-term. “They’ve told me that none of the rumors are true,” Casas said. “Maybe, just maybe, all that other stuff is just clickbait.”

On the pitching front, Garrett Whitlock is preparing to return to the bullpen after injuries derailed his transition to the starting rotation. Whitlock, who has a 2.65 ERA in relief compared to 4.29 as a starter, expressed readiness to contribute in any role. “It’s what we think is going to help give the team the best chance to win,” he said.

As the Red Sox weigh their options, the team remains focused on building a competitive roster for the 2025 season. With Devers firmly entrenched at third base and Arenado’s potential arrival still uncertain, Boston’s front office faces a delicate balancing act in the weeks ahead.