The New York Mets added Juan Soto, but what’s next?

They need to add a corner infielder to replace Pete Alonso at first base. While the first base market is dry, New York could add a third baseman and slot Mark Vientos in at first base.

One of the best options on the market is St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, who recently listed the Mets on his list of teams he would waive his no-trade clause for.

Thomas Gauvain of Redbird Rants recently crafted a trade that would send Arenado to the Big Apple in a blockbuster deal.

St. Louis Cardinals infielder Nolan Arenado
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI – AUGUST 18: Nolan Arenado #28 of the St. Louis Cardinals at bat against the New York Mets at Busch Stadium on August 18, 2023 in St Louis, Missouri.

Joe Puetz/Getty Images

Here’s the full trade being pitched by Gauvain:

  • New York Mets receive: 3B Nolan Arenado, $15 million
  • St. Louis Cardinals receive: RHP Jonah Tong

“The Mets just got the offseason’s prized player in Juan Soto, they’ve already bolstered their rotation, and they may not be done just yet,” Gauvin wrote. “At the moment, Brett Baty is listed as the Mets’ third baseman in 2025, but he had a tough year at the plate in 2024. His defense isn’t anything to write home about, either. Arenado would be a significant upgrade at the hot corner for the Mets.

“The Mets will surely be contenders in 2025, and Arenado will take them to another level. His plus defense paired with Lindor’s at shortstop would give New York one of the best left sides of the infield in the game. If the Mets are unable to re-sign Pete Alonso, they could pivot to the trade market to fill out their corner infield spots.”

The Cardinals would benefit from the deal because they’re getting off over $30 million of Arenado’s remaining $52 million. They’re also adding Jonah Tong, who is a young prospect with an overpowering fastball.

The Mets would continue in their pursuit of a World Series roster without spending much money. It would be a cheaper move, especially with the Cardinals sending cash in the deal, than signing Alex Bregman or Alonso. A move like this clears the way for the Mets to spend more on the starting rotation as well.

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