The Arizona Diamondbacks have traded for third baseman Nolan Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals, adding a veteran presence to their infield. The deal includes cash considerations from St. Louis and sends minor-league pitcher Jack Martinez to the Cardinals. Arenado, who approved the trade via his no-trade clause, will play third base for Arizona on a subsidized contract.
The St. Louis Cardinals and Arizona Diamondbacks finalized a trade on January 13, 2026, sending third baseman Nolan Arenado to Arizona in exchange for minor-league right-hander Jack Martinez and cash. Arenado, 34, had a full no-trade clause and gave his approval for the move. This transaction follows St. Louis's recent efforts to retool, including trades of Willson Contreras and Sonny Gray earlier in the offseason.
Under the deal, Arenado has two years and $37 million remaining on his contract. The Cardinals absorbed a significant portion of the salary, leaving Arizona to pay $5 million in 2026 and $6 million in 2027. This heavily subsidized arrangement allows the Diamondbacks to bolster their third base position without major financial strain. The opening at third base arose because top prospect Jordan Lawlar has not yet secured a full-time spot in the lineup.
For the Cardinals, the trade clears salary and creates space in the lineup as they focus on younger talent. St. Louis receives Martinez, a minor-league arm, to add depth to their system. Arenado's addition gives Arizona a proven defender and hitter at a key position, potentially strengthening their competitiveness in the National League West.
The move aligns with broader offseason trends, where teams like the Diamondbacks seek cost-effective upgrades. Spring training begins in about a month, providing time for Arenado to integrate into the Arizona roster.
