Spring training is officially kicking off in Arizona and Florida, yet the buzz surrounding hot stove rumors remains alive due to several prominent free agents and trade possibilities still on the market. You can find the latest updates below.

The St. Louis Cardinals are actively exploring a trade for their seasoned third baseman, Nolan Arenado, as they enter a phase of reorganization this offseason. While Arenado continues to be an exceptional defender at third base, his batting performance has noticeably declined as he reaches 33. This is particularly evident when examining various advanced metrics. It’s important to note that Arenado possesses a full no-trade clause, which he previously exercised to block a trade to the Houston Astros. Adding complexity to the situation is the fact that Arenado is due $74 million over the next three years, with the Colorado Rockies covering $10 million of that total. Nonetheless, the remaining $64 million is a hefty financial commitment for a player whose offensive prowess is currently under scrutiny.

This brings us to the Boston Red Sox. Discussions have been taking place between the Red Sox and the Cardinals regarding a potential trade for Arenado. However, the key sticking point appears to be how much financial assistance the Cardinals are willing to contribute towards Arenado’s contract. According to this ESPN article:

The Red Sox have yet to make a definitive move, not just because of the ramifications of such an action—like shifting [Rafael] Devers to a near-full-time designated hitter role—but also due to the Cardinals not providing sufficient funding relief for Arenado’s remaining three years and $64 million contract.

During talks with the Astros, the Cardinals expressed a willingness to offer up to around $15 million to facilitate a trade, with a potential increase to $20 million. It seems the Red Sox are looking for a more substantial financial contribution. Despite these discussions, the Cardinals have indicated they are ready to keep Arenado as their third baseman, even with an influx of younger talent emerging in the lineup.

Arenado could be a strategic addition for the Red Sox, significantly enhancing their defensive capabilities at third base, particularly in front of a pitching rotation expected to induce a high number of ground balls. The imposing Green Monster could also complement Arenado’s power hitting. Additionally, reports suggest that Arenado is open to a trade to Boston. While there are many favorable conditions for a potential deal, financial matters currently pose a challenge.

Meanwhile, Toronto Blue Jays All-Star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is entering the final year of his contract. Turning 26 this March, he is poised to enter a robust market next winter—especially by first base standards. The anticipation is that he will test this market fully, potentially leaving the franchise he has been with his entire career. However, ESPN reports that the Blue Jays have no current intention to trade Guerrero. The organization is aiming for a rebound after a lackluster 2024, and Guerrero plays a critical role in those aspirations. Although circumstances might change as the trade deadline approaches, there is presently little interest in initiating a major trade involving Guerrero.

In other news, the Minnesota Twins have struck a deal with veteran first baseman Ty France for the upcoming season, as reported by Phil Miller from the Star Tribune. The agreement is pending a physical exam. France, 30, is coming off a 2024 season with the Seattle Mariners and the Cincinnati Reds, where he recorded a .234/.305/.365 batting average with 13 home runs during 140 games. An All-Star in 2022, France boasts a career OPS+ of 111 over six seasons in the MLB.

White Sox sign experienced outfielder

The Chicago White Sox have acquired free agent outfielder Michael A. Taylor, according to Robert Murray from FanSided.

Taylor, 33, had a challenging season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, finishing with a .193/.253/.290 line and 0.9 WAR over 113 games. While his offensive statistics were underwhelming, his defensive skills, especially in center field, remain a valuable asset. Currently, Luis Robert Jr. holds the starting center field position for the White Sox, but Taylor’s acquisition as a backup provides additional depth. Not only is he a solid defender, but he also brings experience from participating in four playoff teams.