There is nothing like waking up on Friday to a juicy rumor from MLB Network’s Jon Morosi.
A few weeks ago, Jeff Passan said on the Ryen Russilo Podcast that the Braves have at least discussed a possible trade with the Rockies for Nolan Arenado, although, he did not inform us how serious those conversations were. In fact, Passan even went so far as to say the Braves feel like a deal for Colorado’s star third baseman is unlikely. And this morning, Morosi confirmed those rumors, while adding a few sprinkles.
Sources: #Braves have inquired to #Rockies on a Nolan Arenado trade, although discussions between the teams have not been active recently. Atlanta is said to be wary of the salary commitment but has the sort of prospect group Colorado wants in any Arenado deal. @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 27, 2019
It doesn’t look like too much has developed since Passan first dropped that nugget on the Russillo podcast. As you can see, Morosi says the discussions between Atlanta and Colorado have not been active recently, which tells me this remains a highly unlikely scenario.
The Braves are concerned with the monstrous price tag attached to Arenado. If there is any chance of a deal happening, the Rockies would have to pay down some of his contract. Of course, if that happens, Colorado will be looking for a more significant prospect haul in return, which could get ridiculous considering Arenado has seven years remaining on his deal.
Atlanta is holding out hope for Josh Donaldson, whose decision could come any day now. However, it is beginning to look like – if they don’t re-sign The Bringer of Rain – they will turn to the trade market in an attempt to replace him. I still think a move for Kris Bryant is much more likely, but Arenado remains in the conversation. Either way, it is encouraging to see Anthopoulos at least test the waters out on star players with mega-contracts. That wasn’t an option this time last year.