Nolan Arenado is undoubtedly a future Hall of Famer, but few players in baseball faced as many questions heading into spring training this year. The St. Louis Cardinals’ third baseman had a down year in 2024, posting his worst offensive stats since his rookie season with the Colorado Rockies in 2013. He finished with a .272/.325/.394 line and 16 home runs in 152 games. Additionally, he missed out on a Gold Glove for the second consecutive season, a notable departure from his decade-long dominance as one of the National League’s top defenders at third base.
As Arenado turned 34 in April, speculation grew that he might be entering the decline phase of his career. Adding to the uncertainty was his discontent with the Cardinals’ direction. Frustrated by the team’s decision to enter a “reset” phase and prioritize younger players, Arenado requested a trade. He was also upset by the Cardinals’ handling of first baseman Paul Goldschmidt’s departure to the New York Yankees, especially after they didn’t make an offer to retain him. The Cardinals made only one notable signing during the offseason, bringing in journeyman relief pitcher Phil Maton.
In December, there were trade talks between the Cardinals and the Houston Astros involving Arenado, but the eight-time All-Star used his no-trade clause to block the deal.
However, the concerns surrounding Arenado have largely faded. Through 25 games this season, he’s hitting .266/.367/.447 with eight doubles, three home runs, and 14 walks. He’s also regained his elite defensive form at third base.
Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol is pleased with Arenado’s return to form, saying, “He’s made some really nice plays to start the year.” Arenado’s all-around performance has been key to the team’s success, and his walk-off home run against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday, his sixth career walk-off, secured a 6-5 win at Busch Stadium.
“Hall of Famer for a reason,” Marmol added. “He’s one of the best at it on both sides of the baseball. He’s going to continue to show that he’s determined to (be great).”
After a tough 2024 and a challenging offseason, Arenado looks reinvigorated and is proving why he’s still one of the best in the game.