As the excitement of spring training kicks off, Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals’ esteemed third baseman, has officially reported to camp. His arrival comes on the heels of a whirlwind offseason filled with whispers and chatter about potential trades. Despite all the speculation swirling around, Arenado remains a cornerstone of the Cardinals, reflecting his value not just as a player but as a leader on and off the field.
Arenado, who is now 33, carries the weight of a full no-trade clause—a powerful tool that gives him the ability to dictate his future in baseball. This means that any trades involving him must get his explicit approval. Although it’s been reported that the Cardinals explored possibilities with various teams, no deals were finalized, and Arenado confirmed that he had prepared a list of around five or six teams where he would be open to playing. However, the allure of a new opportunity wasn’t enough to convince him to give up his no-trade rights. “I got a family now, and to be willing to pick up my family and move them, it has to be something that is worth it,” he shared with reporters. This reality resonates deeply for many fans who understand the complexities of family life and career decisions.
The teams reportedly interested in adding Arenado included big names like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Angels, Philadelphia Phillies, and New York Mets. Yet, complications like player signings and roster decisions led to a narrowing of his trade market. Currently, he’s under contract for $74 million over the next three seasons—a significant investment, particularly with the Rockies covering a portion of his salary.
Despite the swirling rumors, Cardinals President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak emphasized Arenado’s vital role in the team’s success. “Simply put, with Nolan on our team, we feel we’re a better team,” Mozeliak stated succinctly, signaling the organization’s commitment to Arenado.
While the 2024 season wasn’t his strongest, with a batting average of .272 and only 16 home runs, Arenado’s longstanding career statistics still speak volumes. With a lifetime average of .285, alongside 341 home runs and 1,132 RBIs, he has solidified his place not just in Cardinals history but in MLB lore. His insights into the team’s direction reinforce his commitment to winning. While he expressed a desire for the Cardinals to “go all in,” he also recognized that sometimes a more measured approach is necessary for long-term success: “Do I wish the direction was all in? Of course. But is this what’s probably best for the Cardinals? Probably.”
As we look forward, Arenado is set to reclaim his position as St. Louis’s starting third baseman when the season opens on March 27 against the Minnesota Twins. Fans can keep their fingers crossed that Arenado will not only deliver a strong performance but also continue to be the reliable, passionate player they’ve come to admire—one who genuinely cares about his team and its future.
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