How Alex Bregman Rumors Could Impact Red Sox-Nolan Arenado Trade Talks

The Red Sox might no longer be a frontrunner to land Alex Bregman, but that doesn’t mean they won’t acquire a decorated veteran infielder this offseason.

The Bregman sweepstakes seem to have taken a considerable turn, largely due to another marquee trade between the Astros and the Cubs. Houston and Chicago, which previously worked together in a blockbuster swap involving Kyle Tucker, reportedly rejoined forces for a deal centered around star closer Ryan Pressly.

While the Astros parted with high-end talent in the trade, they might have increased their chances of retaining Bregman. Houston long was believed to be out of the running to sign the two-time World Series champion, but there reportedly now are folks around the big leagues who view the Astros are a favorite to land Bregman.

What could this mean for Boston? Well, if Bregman stays in Houston or latches on with another club, the Red Sox might heighten their focus on another star third baseman who’s been attached to the organization in many rumors this offseason.

Nolan Arenado appears to be a likely trade candidate, and it would make sense for the rebuilding Cardinals to be motivated to shed some — if not all — of his contract. The Red Sox don’t necessarily need a third baseman, but their lineup definitely could benefit from an impactful right-handed bat. Arenado also could improve Boston’s infield defense and join the club’s veteran leadership contingency that includes good friend Trevor Story.

It’s unclear how interested the Red Sox are in Arenado, though. After all, he’s coming off a pretty mediocre 2024 season and he’ll turn 34 in mid-April. But if St. Louis also was willing to move lights-out closer Ryan Helsley, Craig Breslow and company potentially could be intrigued by a multi-player trade that would address multiple needs at Fenway Park.

To be clear, this is all purely speculative. But it’s not difficult to see a scenario where Bregman’s door closing creates a new path for a different impact move.