Arenado expects to be 'complete player again' for D-Backs
Nolan Arenado says he's determined to contribute to the Arizona Diamondbacks' success this season, aiming to replicate the performances of his peak years with the Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals.
"I expect to help this team win," Arenado told Bob Nightengale of USA Today. "And I expect to be a complete player again."
The D-Backs acquired Arenado from the Cardinals in January after nearly two seasons of trade rumors involving the eight-time All-Star, who was nearly dealt to the Houston Astros prior to the 2025 campaign.
Arizona picked up Arenado for a minimal cost - a pitching prospect selected in the eighth round of the 2025 draft - and will pay just $11 million of the remaining $42 million on his contract over the next two seasons.
The D-Backs landed Arenado at a bargain after the 10-time Gold Glove winner posted career lows in batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage last year. His decline, combined with the Cardinals' new direction focused on youth, prompted the trade to Arizona.
Arenado, who finished third in NL MVP voting in 2022, said he believes he can find his old form in his first season with his new club.
"I know I've had a couple of tough years," Arenado said, "but this team believes in what I can do. And that's helped me get me excited for the confidence they have in me. It's already a top-10 lineup, and I think I can make it better.
"I'm hopeful that they can bring out the best of me."