As the St. Louis Cardinals try to stay in the playoff hunt—currently 5.5 games behind the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs—veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado is making headlines, not for his performance at the plate or in the field, but for a candid moment of introspection. During a recent episode of the MLB Network Podcast, Arenado opened up about a personal source of motivation: a self-imposed rivalry with fellow star third baseman Manny Machado.
Arenado, an 8-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove winner, spoke openly about how he uses Machado as a mental measuring stick—not out of animosity, but as a way to push himself.
In a clip from the podcast shared on X (formerly Twitter), Arenado offered high praise for Machado while also shedding light on how their careers are mentally linked in his own mind.
“He’s probably my favorite third baseman in the game. In my mind, I feel like I put a rivalry in my head—you know, to twist myself into thinking I need to be better, because people are talking about Manny and not me.”
That statement added an emotional depth to what fans have long seen as a quiet, ongoing competition between two of the best third basemen of their generation. While Machado currently leads Arenado in several 2025 stats—batting .290 with 15 home runs and a 2.7 WAR compared to Arenado’s .248 average, 10 homers, and 1.4 WAR—Arenado still holds an edge in key career numbers. He leads Machado in RBIs (1,178 to 1,102), All-Star appearances (8 to 7), and career slugging percentage.
Machado’s offensive output this season gives him the statistical upper hand, but Arenado made it clear that his competitive fire is fueled by more than numbers. His motivation comes from pride, legacy, and the desire to match—or exceed—the players he respects most.
Their career achievements reflect their greatness. Machado has seven All-Star selections, two Gold Gloves, and a Platinum Glove. Arenado counters with 10 Gold Gloves, five Silver Sluggers, and a better career OPS. Machado may have the edge in speed and power, but few question Arenado’s defensive supremacy. While the rivalry may be unspoken between them, the mutual respect—and internal drive—runs deep.