Nolan Arenado Says He 'Was Kind Of in Shock' After Diamondbacks Trade, Eyes MLB Playoff Success

Nolan Arenado detailed his reaction after he was traded from the St. Louis Cardinals to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday.

"I was kind of in shock, because this process has been going on for a little while, so it was like 'Man, I can't believe we're finally getting to this place,'" Arenado said, per the Associated Press (h/t ESPN).

The eight-time All-Star is also looking to return to the postseason for the first time since 2022 following the change of scenery.

"I still want to play in the playoffs," Arenado said, via ESPN. "I know my numbers aren't great, but that doesn't take away from the fact that I was prepared for it and that I've always been prepared for it. I just haven't played the way I expected."

"I want the opportunity to do it again and I don't see why this group can't do that," he added. "That's why I was really open to playing here. My expectations are still high."

The Diamondbacks sent right-handed pitcher Jack Martinez to the Cardinals in exchange of Arenado and cash considerations as part of Tuesday's swap.

The 34-year-old opened his MLB career with the Colorado Rockies in 2013 before he was traded to St. Louis in 2021. Arenado has 10 Gold Glove honors under his belt while amassing at least 30 home runs in seven separate years.

He hit .237 with 12 homers and 18 doubles to go along with 52 RBI during the 2025 season, posting a .666 OPS. It's worth noting that Arenado only appeared in 107 games, missing time due to a shoulder strain.

The Diamondbacks will hope that he can look like his former self following the trade while making an impact during a potential postseason run, as he owns a .152/.143/.242 slash line in eight career playoff games.

Arizona finished with a record of 80-82 in 2025, missing the postseason for the second consecutive year following its 2023 World Series appearance.