PHOENIX, April 2, 2025 — Nolan Arenado admitted to being stunned Tuesday after a trade sent him from the St. Louis Cardinals to the Arizona Diamondbacks, a move that signals a meaningful shakeup for both teams and offers the veteran infielder a fresh start.
A New Chapter in the Desert
Table of Contents
The eight-time All-Star is eager to contend for a playoff spot, despite recent performance dips.
- Arenado expressed shock at the trade, acknowledging it had been under discussion for some time.
- The Diamondbacks acquired Arenado in exchange for right-handed pitcher Jack Martinez and cash considerations.
- Despite acknowledging his recent struggles,Arenado remains determined to contribute to a postseason run.
- The 34-year-old has a decorated career, including 10 Gold Glove awards and seven seasons with at least 30 home runs.
“I was kind of in shock, because this process has been going on for a little while, so it was like ‘Man, I can’t believe we’re finally getting to this place,’†Arenado said, according to the Associated Press. The trade comes as Arenado seeks to return to postseason play for the first time since 2022.
Playoff Aspirations Drive the Move
Arenado, a perennial Gold Glove winner, emphasized his continued desire to compete at the highest level. “I still want to play in the playoffs,†he said. “I know my numbers aren’t great, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that I was prepared for it and that I’ve always been prepared for it. I just haven’t played the way I expected.â€
He added,“I want the possibility to do it again and I don’t see why this group can’t do that. That’s why I was really open to playing here. my expectations are still high.â€
Nolan Arenado’s versatility Arenado has played both third base and first base throughout his career,providing positional adaptability for the Diamondbacks.
The Diamondbacks sent right-handed pitcher jack Martinez to the Cardinals to complete the swap on Tuesday. Arizona is banking on a change of scenery to revitalize Arenado’s performance.
A Storied Career,Recent Challenges
Arenado began his Major League Baseball career with the Colorado Rockies in 2013 before being traded to St. Louis in 2021. Throughout his career, he’s established himself as one of the game’s premier defensive players, earning 10 Gold Glove honors. He’s also demonstrated consistent power at the plate, reaching the 30-home run mark in seven different seasons.
During the 2025 season, Arenado hit .237 with 12 home runs, 18 doubles, and 52 RBIs, posting a .666 OPS. His playing time was limited to 107 games due to a shoulder strain that required a stint on the injured list.
What about Arenado’s contract? Arenado’s contract includes a full no-trade clause, giving him control over potential future moves.
The Diamondbacks finished the 2025 season with an 80-82 record, missing the postseason for the second consecutive year after a surprising World series appearance in 2023. They’ll be hoping Arenado can provide the spark they need to return to contention.
