Cardinals: Nolan Arenado shows faith in St. Louis by opting in to contract

The St. Louis Cardinals star Nolan Arenado opted into the rest of his contract Saturday, a huge win for the future of the organization.

The St. Louis Cardinals got great news on Saturday as superstar third baseman Nolan Arenado opted into the remainder of his five-year contract with the club, reported first by The Athletic’s Katie Woo. 

Arenado’s decision to remain in St. Louis is not a shocker to those close to the situation. National pundits have tried to stir up rumors that Arenado would want a larger contract with the club or even leave for a team like the Dodgers, but all along, all signs pointed to Arenado remaining in St. Louis.

There was a bit more skepticism in recent days, as John Mozeliak’s comments at his press conference were both encouraging and concerning about the situation. It was clear that the Cardinals third baseman wanted the club to make major moves this offseason, and his decision to opt-in should be a sign of moves to come. With the club’s payroll expected to increase this offseason, the Cardinals should be a much better team coming Opening Day in 2023.

Not only is Arenado a crucial piece on the field for St. Louis, but he is also a cornerstone for the franchise off the field. Both Arenado and first baseman Paul Goldschmidt were leading MVP candidates throughout the 2022 season, and will be key to the club’s future as it enters into a new era.

Arenado will act as the leader of a club that has bright talent on the way, as well as a core that is ready to compete now. The Cardinals received Arenado in a discounted trade, now have him at a discounted salary, and now it is on the front office to honor Arenado’s commitment by going for it in 2023.