As the St. Louis Cardinals continue to struggle, doubt is starting to settle into the clubhouse, particularly for Nolan Arenado. The star third baseman is likely regretting not approving the offseason trade that would have sent him to the Houston Astros. Still, what’s done is done, and in a recent interview with MLB.com’s Bill Ladson, Arenado emphasized his focus on the future.
During the interview, Arenado touched on several topics, with much of the discussion centered around his future with the Cardinals. The team has been stuck in mediocrity for several years with little sign of improvement, and Arenado knows time isn’t on his side.
Naturally, speculation about his long-term plans in St. Louis has resurfaced, and the eight-time All-Star addressed it openly.
Interestingly, Arenado spoke as if he had little say in whether he stays or goes — despite having a full no-trade clause. He even used it this past offseason to block the proposed trade to Houston. Has he forgotten about that leverage?
Nolan Arenado opens up about his future with the Cardinals, seemingly forgetting he holds the cards
When asked about turning 34 and how much more he has left to give, Nolan Arenado sounded a bit uncertain. The veteran chose to stay focused on the present, while also suggesting he’s not ready to walk away from what could end up being a Hall of Fame career.
“I’m not sure,” Arenado admitted. “I like how I’m feeling right now. I think I still have a lot left to give. I believe there’s still plenty of good baseball in me, and I feel like I’m showing that. Of course, it’s a long season.”
Still, Arenado may have accidentally hinted at his desire to keep playing when he addressed whether he’s already done enough to earn a spot in Cooperstown.
“I don’t know if I’m a Hall of Famer,” he said. “I feel like there’s still a lot left for me to do, so we’ll see where things stand when it’s all said and done.”
That said, it’s uncertain whether Arenado’s future seasons will continue in St. Louis. He recognizes the Cardinals are shifting toward a younger roster, and if the team doesn’t turn things around, it could force some tough conversations.
“Hopefully, we’ll be winning and can be buyers at the Deadline,” Arenado said. “If not, I imagine some questions will come up.”
At the heart of it, Arenado simply wants to compete. He’s chasing another opportunity to play in October, hoping to redeem himself after limited and disappointing playoff appearances.
“I want to win,” he said. “I want another shot at the postseason. I haven’t had many chances, and when I did, I didn’t perform well. I’d like to get back there and do better.”
If Arenado truly wants to chase a championship, it might be up to him to take the next step. Maybe someone should remind him of that.
Be the first to comment