MLB Rumors: Nolan Arenado 'More Likely' to be Traded Than Francisco Lindor or Mookie Betts

The Cardinals have engaged in "preliminary" trade talks with the Rockies for third baseman Nolan Arenado, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi.

St. Louis has emerged as a "viable suitor" for Arenado as the Cardinals are reportedly looking to add another star position player before Spring Training begins in February.

Morosi reports that Arenado is "more likely" to be traded than Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor or Red Sox rightfielder Mookie Betts. Both players have come up in trade talks throughout the offseason, but they came to terms with their clubs on arbitration contracts last week. Discussions between the Indians and Dodgers over Lindor have reportedly stalled because Cleveland insists Los Angeles includes infield prospect Gavin Lux in a deal. However, the Dodgers refuse to trade Lux.

Arenado is entering the second season of his eight-year, $260 million extension with the Rockies. The five-time All-Star and seven-time National League Gold Glove Award winner has a full no-trade clause included in his contract.

As Spring Training draws near, here are the latest rumors around MLB.

• The Cardinals and Rangers are "more serious" about trading for Arenado than the Braves, who asked about him at the Winter Meetings. (Jon Morosi, MLB Network)
• Lefthander Alex Wood has agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Incentives can amount to $6 million. (Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic)
• The Texas Rangers and third baseman Todd Frazier have agreed to a one-year contract with a club option for 2021. (Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News)
• The Cardinals may be more likely to sign outfielder Nicholas Castellanos than to re-sign Marcell Ozuna since Castellanos is not tied to draft-pick compensation. (Ken Rosenthal, MLB Network)