In a monumental move that cements a cornerstone for the St. Louis Cardinals’ future, star third baseman Nolan Arenado has officially signed a six-year contract extension worth $180 million. The deal keeps Arenado in St. Louis through the 2030 MLB season, providing stability, leadership, and elite two-way production at the hot corner for the foreseeable future.
The $180 million pact breaks down to an average annual value (AAV) of $30 million per year, placing Arenado among the highest-paid third basemen in the league. According to team sources, the contract includes a full no-trade clause and performance bonuses tied to MVP finishes, Gold Glove wins, and postseason appearances. It also features deferred money to offer the Cardinals some payroll flexibility moving forward. There is no opt-out clause, a significant detail that underscores Arenado’s commitment to St. Louis and his desire to finish his career in Cardinal red.
Arenado, 33, has been a vital piece of the Cardinals’ roster since arriving via trade from the Colorado Rockies in 2021. Since then, he has earned multiple All-Star nods and continued his streak of Gold Glove dominance — now standing at 11 consecutive awards. Offensively, he remains one of the most consistent and powerful right-handed hitters in the game, with 30+ home runs and 100+ RBIs in nearly every full season played.
The deal was reportedly in the works for several months, with both sides emphasizing mutual respect and shared goals. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak praised Arenado’s professionalism and impact on the clubhouse: “Nolan isn’t just an elite player—he’s the standard-bearer for what we want this franchise to represent. This contract reflects that.”
For the Cardinals, locking in Arenado represents a crucial step in maintaining competitiveness in a National League Central division that has become increasingly unpredictable. It also signals to fans and players alike that ownership is serious about winning now and into the future.
For Arenado, the decision to stay was just as much about legacy as it was about dollars. “St. Louis is where I want to be. It’s a city that values baseball, tradition, and doing things the right way,” he said during a press conference. “This is home.”
With the extension in place, Arenado and the Cardinals can now turn their full focus to chasing another World Series title.