Arenado’s Future with Cardinals Shifts from Cornerstone to Veteran Leadership
ST. LOUIS — As the 2025 regular season winds down, the spotlight on Nolan Arenado no longer shines with the same intensity it once did. Once considered the heart of the St. Louis Cardinals’ offense, Arenado’s role is shifting toward something different — a veteran presence and defensive anchor as the team transitions into a new era.
With two years and $42 million left on his contract, Arenado appears firmly tied to the Cardinals through 2027. His trademark defense at third base remains among the league’s best, but a steady decline in offensive production has altered expectations. Gone are the days of 35-plus home runs and MVP chatter. Instead, projections suggest Arenado may settle into a .240–.250 batting range with limited power, offering stability more than fireworks.
At age 34 in 2026, Arenado will likely be tasked with guiding St. Louis’ younger roster, especially as the front office leans toward a youth-driven rebuild. While his no-trade clause keeps him in control of his future, trade scenarios appear slim given his contract and performance trends.
Looking further ahead, the veteran could face a pivotal decision after 2027: extend his career on short-term deals as a defense-first option, or close the book on a career that has already cemented him as one of the game’s greatest third basemen.
For now, Arenado remains a Cardinal — not as the franchise’s centerpiece, but as a leader whose presence may shape the team’s next chapter.
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