Nolan Arenado Trade Rumors: New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers In Talks With Rockies?

Under the new ownership of billionaire investor Steve Cohen, the New York Mets are expected to make a serious upgrade to their roster. In addition to spending big in free agency, new general manager Jared Porter may have his sights set on one of baseball's top hitters.

The Colorado Rockies are interested in trade talks with the Mets for Nolan Arenado, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported. It remains unclear why the Rockies are shopping Arenado to the Mets and what New York's level of interest would be for the slugger.

Arenado has been the subject of trade rumors since the last offseason when the Rockies admitted to listening to offers. The third baseman expressed his unhappiness with the situation and can opt-out of his contract in a year, prompting Colorado to find possible trading partners.

Following consecutive fourth-place finishes in the NL West, the Rockies are not close to being a contender. Even if Arenado doesn’t choose to become a free agent, Colorado could look to avoid paying the remainder of his lucrative contract. Arenado has a base salary of $35 million for the 2021 season and the Mets have the deep pockets to afford the $199 million left on his contract.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, who are coming off a World Series title, are also interested in acquiring Arenado, according to reports. The Rockies are more likely to trade their superstar outside their division and may not entertain an offer from the Dodgers if they can find a bid from the Mets or another club.

The Mets, meanwhile, have two free-agent stars on their radar. New York has been linked to both 2020 NL Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer and All-Star outfielder George Springer.

The Mets could also consider a trade for Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor. Arenado is two years older, but he’s proven to be among the most reliable sluggers in the league.

Arenado struggled in a truncated 60-game season, hitting a career-low .253 with eight home runs. The 29-year-old was an All-Star in each of the previous five seasons, never finishing worse than eighth in the NL MVP voting. Arenado averaged 40 home runs and 124 RBI per year.