Cardinals star Nolan Arenado could be back on Boston’s radar after a season-ending injury to Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas . The eight-time All-Star was already the subject of offseason trade talks between St. Louis and Boston, and now a perfect storm of circumstances has reignited the rumor mill. With the Red Sox suddenly needing a big bat and glove in their infield, and the Cardinals off to a disappointing 2025, a blockbuster Arenado deal is once again a hot topic.

Arenado was nearly dealt to the Red Sox this offseason before Boston landed Alex Bregman . Now, with Casas out and Boston short on first base power, Arenado’s name is back in the mix. Reports say he is open to waiving his no-trade clause for Boston, a team he “would really like” to play for.

Arenado is a 10-time Gold Glover and 8-time All-Star, exactly the kind of presence the Red Sox lineup and clubhouse could use right now.

Red Sox’s One Move Could Be A Big Fix

The Cardinals, off to a disappointing 2025 start, may finally be ready to move on. They are under .500, their bullpen is falling apart, and team president John Mozeliak has already said trading Arenado was their “priority one, two, and three” this past offseason. With nearly $74 million still owed to him through 2027, St. Louis might be more than happy to shed that salary.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox have the cap space and farm depth to make a deal happen, especially if they’re willing to eat most of the contract.

Arenado isn’t a natural first baseman, but insiders say he would have no problem sliding across the diamond if it meant joining a contender. That flexibility and his bat and glove make him a near-perfect replacement for Casas.

Boston’s front office is reportedly “exploring all options,” and this might be the biggest one on the board.

The fit is real. The need is clear. It wouldn’t be shocking if the Red Sox and Cardinals revisit talks before the deadline.