MLB Rumors: '50% Chance' Of Nolan Arenado Trade, Josh Donaldson Market To Dictate His Destination

The Colorado Rockies have a “50% chance” of off-loading Nolan Arenado this winter according to Jon Heyman of the MLB Network with the Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves the likeliest destination for the infielder while the Los Angeles Dodgers are also in contention.

Ideally, the Rockies wouldn’t like to offload their star player to a division rival, as per Heyman, making the Braves and Nationals more appealing to Colorado. However, those two are both heavily involved in the Josh Donaldson market having gaping holes to fill.

Washington saw Anthony Rendon chose to sign with the Los Angeles Angels while Atlanta now has a blank sitting clean-up in their lineup after Donaldson declined their qualifying offer. Meanwhile, Los Angeles does want more offense but their biggest needs are in other areas, such as starting pitching.

The Nationals likely have the financial muscle to land Donaldson as they were heavily involved in negotiations with Rendon. This means they could out-bid most any other suitor and perhaps could even offer the four-year deal that the veteran third baseman desires.

If and when this move happens, it would leave the Braves with a draft pick as compensation and also avoid at the hot corner. Kris Bryant may be available via trade should he win his service-time dispute with the Chicago Cubs but there are relatively few top-tier players available outside of him.

Francisco Lindor of the Cleveland Indians is a possibility but the Tribe are in no rush to off-load him, plus he is a natural middle infielder. However, the Braves could have a real chance at landing Arenado. The Rockies want top-end prospects in return for Nolan Arenado, specifically at catcher, center field and pitcher. Meanwhile, the Braves have the goods to send but no major league third baseman.

The Dodgers may make a play but would offer major leaguers in return. It is widely reported that they are keen to keep their top prospects, specifically Gavin Lux and Dustin May, so they are less likely than Atlanta to throw caution to the wind.

As per Heyman, nothing is set in stone. Any deal for Nolan Arenado would hinge on Josh Donaldson and where he may sign. Once he finds a new home, then the market for Arenado will heat up.