Dodgers don’t make an offer to Anthony Rendon; What’s next?

Trade for Nolan Arenado

On Wednesday there were also rumors that surfaced regarding Nolan Arenado.  The Rockies are suddenly open to moving the face of their franchise and the Dodgers could have interest in acquiring the All-Star third baseman.  The only question is why would the Dodgers give up prospects and pay Arenado a Rendon-like salary but there could be some truth to Rendon not wanting to play in Los Angeles.

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Arenado is signed through the 2026 season although he contains an opt-out clause after the 2021 season.  That could factor into the Dodgers’ decision whether to pursue a trade for him or not but Arenado could be given more money in order to drop the opt-out clause.  Trading inside the division could always backfire depending on the prospect package the Dodgers give up but Arenado is a star with many seasons of control left.

The Indians reportedly want Gavin Lux for Francisco Lindor but Lindor is only under control for two more seasons.  Arenado is under control for another seven seasons.  He makes an average of $35 million a season which is the exact salary that Anthony Rendon received.  Nolan would bolster the Dodger infield defense and give the team their third baseman for many years to come.

Why would the Rockies trade Arenado to the Dodgers?  They are a team in need of a rebuild and clearing Arenado’s contract would be a step in the right direction, especially if players such as Gavin Lux and Dustin May end up going to the Rockies.

If the Dodgers are going to give up top prospects it makes more sense for them to give them up for a player with a lot of control left like Arenado.  These are only some players the Dodgers could pursue but Andrew Friedman is always good for a surprise or two every off-season.