Bernie Show: Arenado a go-go?

Here's an update on a recent video about Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, taking a look at the reasons why it makes sense for St. Louis to trade him this offseason. The answer, obviously, is yes. But the reasons are even stronger now. The nove must be made, if at all possible.

Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak offered this clue on Wednesday as he spoke to the St. Louis beatwriters at the annual GM meetings in San Antonio. The question concerned the four Cardinals who have no-trade clauses in their contracts: Arenado, Sonny Gray, Willson Contreras and Miles Mikolas.

“I’ve spoken with everyone, and most have indicated that they want to be a part of this,” Mozeliak said. “I have had an individual ask me to explore a few things, so we will try to do that ... I’d prefer to not name that [player] for leverage in terms of trying to do something with him [in a trade.]"

That unidentified player must be Arenado. Contreras is staying, so he's off the board. Gray has informed the Cardinals that he'd like to stay. I'm not sure Mikolas has any relevance in this discussion. That makes Arenado the obvious candidate.

Arenado's contract is an issue. His age and related decline are issues. He would want to go to a contending team, and that's an issue. The Cardinals might have to pick up a large portion of the salary tab -- that's an issue. And given Arenado's risk factors, why would teams be willing to give up a good prospect or promising contract for an aging hitter who has performed slightly above league average offensively over the last two seasons? Is there real enthusiasm for Arenado on the trade market?

Having Arenado here on a losing or mediocre team is not a good idea. There's a risk of too much negativity. And to give more young players a chance to play a lot, an open third base position provides an outlet. All of this and more in today's Bernie Show video.