In a stunning move, the Arizona Diamondbacks have acquired eight-time All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, sources told ESPN. In the trade, the Cardinals will receive right-handed pitcher Jack Martinez and will pay cash. In addition, the Cardinals will pay $31 million of Arenado’s remaining $42 million left on his contract.
According to the report, Arenado has agreed to waive his no-trade clause, clearing the final hurdle and officially completing the deal. It is one of the most significant in-season—or offseason—moves in recent memory, instantly elevating Arizona’s lineup and signaling an aggressive push toward championship contention.
BREAKING: The Arizona Diamondbacks are acquiring eight-time All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, sources tell ESPN. Arenado has agreed to waive his no-trade clause and the deal is done.
First to say the deal was close was @katiejwoo.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 13, 2026
A Big Addition for Arizona
Arenado, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive third basemen in MLB history, brings elite production on both sides of the ball. Over his decorated career, he has earned 10 Gold Gloves, multiple Platinum Gloves, five Silver Sluggers, and has consistently been among the league leaders in home runs and RBIs.
For the Arizona Diamondbacks, the move adds a proven superstar to a core that has already shown it can compete deep into October. Arenado’s presence immediately stabilizes the infield defense while adding a middle-of-the-order bat capable of carrying an offense in high-leverage moments.
Cardinals Shift Direction
For St. Louis, the trade represents a major organizational pivot. Moving a franchise cornerstone like Arenado signals a clear retooling—or potential rebuild—phase, as the Cardinals look to reshape their roster and future payroll flexibility. Full details of the return have not yet been made public, but the haul is expected to be significant given Arenado’s pedigree and contract status.
What This Means Going Forward
Arenado’s arrival in Arizona dramatically changes the NL power balance. Paired with a young, talented roster and strong pitching staff, the Diamondbacks now boast one of the most formidable lineups in baseball.
More details on the full trade package are expected soon, but one thing is clear: Arizona just made one of the boldest moves in franchise history—and the rest of the league has officially been put on notice.
37 Comments