Throughout the offseason, there have been 4 superstars involved in trade talks: Kris Bryant, Mookie Betts, Francisco Lindor, and Nolan Arenado. Recently, trade talks surrounding Arenado have reportedly ramped up. The Cardinals and Braves seem like logical destinations, but if the White Sox decided to really go for it in 2020, what could a hypothetical deal look like?
I’ve seen reports that the Rockies would ask for Yoan Moncada, and that really doesn’t make sense to me. Moncada isn’t as good as Arenado right now, but he still has a long way to go in his development and should be a legitimate superstar MVP candidate for years to come.
I think the Sox can do a deal involving just prospects, but it wouldn’t come cheap. Nick Madrigal would surely be shipped to Colorado, as would Andrew Vaughn, who could hit 45 bombs a year at Coors field. I’d imagine the Rockies would also want some sort of pitching, so Dane Dunning, Jonathan Steiver, or even Reynaldo Lopez could also be included in a deal.
Then there’s the fact that Arenado has a full no trade clause, so he would have to approve any deal. He also has the ability to opt out after 2 years. If The Sox can get rid of that opt out to ensure Arenado is here for the long haul, then it is worth exploring. He would bring an impact bat, elite defense at 3rd, and a “Fuck You” attitude that would fit perfectly on the South Side.
As far as what the lineup would look like? Downright scary.
Luis Robert CF
Yoan Moncada 2B
Jose Abreu 1B
Nolan Arenado 3B
Eloy Jimenez LF
Yasmani Grandal C
Edwin Encarnacion DH
Nomar Mazara RF
Tim Anderson SS
A 1-9 where everyone would hit at least 20 home runs and the potential for 7 players to hit 30? Sign me up for that.
Trading for Arenado would immediately mitigate the Twins signing of Donaldson as well. Again, it wouldn’t come cheap and it’s not likely to happen, but it sure would be exciting if it did.
