BREAKING: Cardinals-Red Sox blockbuster trade land Richard Fitts, Jhonstynxon Garcia, and Miguel Bleis in 5-player deal to finally kick off St. Louis’ long overdue ‘reset’

The St. Louis Cardinals and Boston Red Sox have made headlines this week amid speculation that Boston could be the frontrunner to acquire third baseman Nolan Arenado. However, St. Louis has struggled to find any takers for their Gold Glove third baseman, making a trade increasingly unlikely as spring training nears.

The Cardinals appear reluctant to absorb a significant portion of Arenado’s contract simply to offload him, as they’ve expressed a desire to cut payroll for 2025. Why the organization can’t simultaneously invest in their minor league system and major league roster remains unclear, but it might take some added incentives for St. Louis to successfully move Arenado.

A Cardinals-Red Sox blockbuster to kick off St. Louis’ rebuild

Earlier this week, Brandon Kiley of 101 ESPN highlighted that if the Cardinals are committed to rebuilding and giving their younger players a chance, they must find a way to trade Arenado. This could involve moving additional assets to make the deal more appealing, particularly if they are reluctant to take on more salary.

 

 

Boston Red Sox
Receive:

• 3B Nolan Arenado
• RHP Ryan Helsley
• Cash

St. Louis Cardinals
Receive:

• RHP Richard Fitts
• OFs Jhonstynxon Garcia and Miguel Bleis

Kiley also suggested that moving Ryan Helsley might be necessary to complete the trade. Although the Cardinals seem inclined to keep their All-Star closer, dealing him—especially to a team like the Red Sox, with a strong farm system—could make sense as they focus on the future.

In 2024, Bleis, Garcia, and Fitts ranked as the Red Sox’s No. 6, 9, and 10 prospects, respectively. Fitts would add another MLB-ready starter to the Cardinals’ young pitching pool, while Bleis and Garcia would provide outfield depth, an area where they’re thin at the minor league level.

Trading Arenado would give St. Louis a chance to open everyday roles for players like Nolan Gorman and Thomas Saggese, and possibly clear space for additional signings, like bringing back right-hander Andrew Kittredge to strengthen their bullpen.

This trade could be the most practical solution for the Cardinals to move Arenado off the books. Regardless of what happens with Helsley, it’s clear the team isn’t focused on contending in 2025 and will use the year to evaluate their younger talent.