Angels Exploring Third Base Upgrades Via Trade

The Los Angeles Angels are actively seeking an everyday solution at third base, and their search has led them to explore some prominent options. According to Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register, the Angels have inquired about the availability of Nolan Arenado, Alec Bohm and Eugenio Suárez, engaging in discussions with the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks, respectively.

The Angels are one of six teams to which Arenado would accept a trade. Arenado’s agent, Joel Wolfe, suggested that his client would prefer to go to a team with a clear path to contention over the remaining three years of his contract. While the Angels are looking to improve, they’ve added Yusei Kikuchi, Jorge Soler, Travis d’Arnaud, Kevin Newman and Kyle Hendricks this offseason.

While both Arenado and Bohm are reportedly available, the Angels must contend with their less-than-stellar 63-99 record last season, raising concerns about their appeal as a winning destination for high-profile players.

Angels Keep Watch on Top Third Basemen in Trade Talks

Arenado, a hometown player, presents a complex case given his declining offensive stats but consistent enough on defence. The Angels are also inquiring about Bohm, whose performance declined after a strong start last season. Suarez finished with a strong season which may lead to potential trade discussions. General manager Perry Minasian is motivated to get his team a competitive edge at third base.

Among the trio, Suárez is a more intriguing option for the Angels. While it’s unclear if the Diamondbacks are actively shopping him, they have in-house options to replace him. Top prospect Jordan Lawlar is nearing MLB readiness and Blaze Alexander showed promise at the hot corner alongside shortstop Geraldo Perdomo. Notably, Suárez briefly lost his grip on the starting third base job to Alexander, but rebounded strongly, hitting .312/.357/.617 line with 24 home runs in the last three months of the season. Suárez’s last-season surge prompted the D-backs to exercise his $15 million club option.

Even as an impending free agent after next season, it’s possible Arizona could trade Suárez for minor-league talent and allocate his salary elsewhere. The fact that the Angels have expressed interest suggests the Diamondbacks are at least open to listening.

With their clear need at third base and motivation to compete, the Angels are likely to remain active in trade discussions in the coming weeks. To that end, Anthony Rendon will enter spring training in 2025 competing for a roster spot. Minasian suggested Rendon could be moved to another role. He hinted at a part-time utility role where he sees time at first and second base in addition to his current position at third base.