In a powerful statement of loyalty, Nolan Arenado has agreed to a three-year, $90 million contract extension with the St. Louis Cardinals, putting to rest any speculation about his future and reinforcing his love for the only place he says truly feels like home.
“I’m not leaving,” Arenado said in a heartfelt interview. “The Cardinals are the only place I feel at home. This city, this team, the fans—everything about it just fits.”
The 34-year-old third baseman, an eight-time All-Star and one of the game’s most consistent defenders and hitters, made the decision amid mounting questions about the club’s direction. Despite an offseason in which he vetoed a trade to the Houston Astros, Arenado made it clear that his heart—and his future—remains in St. Louis.
“I still have a lot left in the tank,” he said. “I believe in this team and the direction we’re heading. It hasn’t been easy, but that’s part of the journey. I want to be here when things turn around.”
Arenado’s new deal will run through the 2028 season and includes a full no-trade clause, giving him complete control over his future. He’s focused on bringing October baseball back to Busch Stadium—and proving himself when the lights are brightest.
“I want to win. I want to play meaningful baseball in October, and I want to do it in St. Louis. I haven’t had many chances, and I haven’t performed the way I wanted to in the ones I got. That just drives me more.”
The Cardinals, who have been teetering on the edge of a rebuild, now have a firm cornerstone in Arenado—both on the field and in the clubhouse. His leadership and unwavering commitment give the franchise something solid to build around in the coming years.
“I know there were other options, and I know people will talk,” Arenado said. “But this isn’t about escaping. It’s about building something lasting right here.”
With the ink now dry on a $90 million commitment, the message is loud and clear: Nolan Arenado is here to stay—and he’s not done chasing greatness in a Cardinals uniform.
