The St. Louis Cardinals entered Thursday with a 39-35 record, trailing the Chicago Cubs by six games in the NL Central and sitting just half a game out of a Wild Card position.
Offensively, the Cardinals are leaning into a more traditional, small-ball style of play. They’re tied for sixth in MLB in runs per game and rank third in batting average at .257. However, they sit 24th in home runs with just 68 on the season, indicating a clear lack of power hitting.
Part of that power shortage stems from the offseason departure of 2022 MVP Paul Goldschmidt, who signed with the New York Yankees. The front office also chose not to pursue any major free agents. Following an underwhelming 83-79 finish last season and limited roster changes, speculation swirled about a possible Nolan Arenado trade, though nothing ultimately came of it.
Nolan Arenado’s time with the Cardinals began when he was traded from the Colorado Rockies before the 2021 season. Throughout his 13-year career, he has cemented his status as an elite third baseman, earning eight All-Star nods, ten straight Gold Gloves, and five Silver Slugger awards.
In Thursday’s game against the Chicago White Sox, Arenado reached a major career milestone by hitting his 350th home run, a feat the team celebrated with a post on X.
“A milestone for Nado!” the Cardinals declared. “Nolan Arenado joins the 350 home run club!”
Fans have been sharing their reactions to this milestone.
“Congrats to him,” one fan commented.
“Great job, Nado!” another cheered.
“TOTALLY AWESOME, Arenado!!!! Congratulations!!!” someone else added enthusiastically.
“Arenado. Career 350 HR. Congrats,” another noted.
“Congratulations,” said one more.
This season, Arenado is hitting .245 with nine home runs and 37 RBIs over 70 games—a noticeable decline compared to his usual standards as he navigates his age-34 campaign.
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