Braves Reportedly Tabling Nolan Arenado Talks While Josh Donaldson is Still Available
By Mark Powell
Nolan Arenado remains one of the hottest names on the trade market as the Rockies, at least for now, aren't dissuading potential suitors from making an offer.
Enter the Atlanta Braves, still in desperate need of third base production as they await the decision of Josh Donaldson in free agency. Evidently, they don't view the Arenado discussions as urgent, as they're willing to table those talks even further while they continue to discuss an Atlanta return with Donaldson.
Source: #Braves unlikely to aggressively pursue a Nolan Arenado trade with the #Rockies while Josh Donaldson remains available in free agency. If Donaldson signs elsewhere, Arenado-to-Atlanta becomes more plausible. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 29, 2019
Donaldson has long been the final hot corner pillar to fall, as he was the most-sought after third baseman not named Anthony Rendon. The likes of Kris Bryant and Arenado on the trade market will have to wait, as teams would rather not give up their prospect capital if they can avoid it.
Nolan Arenado’s arm is unreal ? pic.twitter.com/95vpwjLwQh
— Kent Murphy (@ReaICoachKent) December 22, 2019
As good as Donaldson is, it's somewhat surprising the Braves aren't taking these talks with Arenado more seriously.
The Rockies third baseman is signed long-term and is undeniably one of the best in the game at his position, slashing .297 with 38 homes runs and 100 RBIs last season. And no, that's not the Coors' Field effect.