Diamondbacks Shake Up MLB: Nolan Arenado Arrives, Bolsters Third Base

Diamondbacks Bolster Roster with Nolan Arenado in a Stellar Move

The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a significant move in the Major League market by acquiring star third baseman Nolan Arenado in a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals, both organizations announced this Tuesday. In this trade, St. Louis will receive right-handed pitcher Jack Martinez, a promising 22-year-old prospect. This exchange represents one of the most significant moves during this offseason. Arenado accepted the change, opting not to activate the no-trade clause in his contract. In this way, he arrives in Arizona to strengthen a team that seeks to compete at the highest level in the 2026 season.

An Elite Resume

Considered one of the best third basemen of his generation, Arenado boasts an impressive list of achievements:

• 10 Gold Gloves
• Eight All-Star selections
• Six Platinum Gloves
• Five Silver Slugger Awards
• Three National League home run titles

His most outstanding season was in 2022, where he finished third in the Most Valuable Player voting, after recording a batting average of .293, with 30 home runs, 103 RBIs, and an OPS of .891. In addition, that year he obtained his tenth consecutive Gold Glove.

Recent Performance and Financial Commitment

Although his offensive numbers have decreased in recent years, his defense at third base has remained among the best in baseball. Arenado has 42 million dollars left to collect in the next two seasons:

• 27 million in 2026
• 15 million in 2027

The Colorado Rockies, his former team, will cover five million of the salary corresponding to 2027, according to the terms of the contract. With this acquisition, the Diamondbacks are betting on Arenado’s experience, leadership, and outstanding defense to reinforce their infield and aim for a higher competitive level in the next Major League season.