Against Team That Wanted Him, Nolan Arenado Launches His Cardinals into the Spotlight

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The St. Louis Cardinals were thrilled when they acquired Nolan Arenado from the Colorado Rockies last offseason. The third baseman brought with him a wealth of experience and a strong track record of production at the plate. But one team in particular might have regretted missing out on the opportunity to sign Arenado: the Chicago Cubs.
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Arenado's Power Stroke

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In 2021, Arenado had an impressive first season with the Cardinals, hitting .255 with 34 home runs and 93 RBIs. His power stroke was a major factor in the team's success, as he helped to provide protection for the lineup behind him. The Cubs, who were looking to bolster their own offense after a disappointing 2020 campaign, might have been hoping that Arenado would be available on the open market.
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Instead, the Cardinals snatched up Arenado and paired him with fellow star Paul Goldschmidt in the heart of their order. The results speak for themselves: St. Louis has become one of the most feared offenses in the National League.

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Arenado's Defense

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But Arenado's impact on the team goes far beyond his bat. He is widely regarded as one of the top defensive third basemen in the game, known for his quick hands and strong throwing arm. In 2021, he committed just eight errors in 144 games, good for a .972 fielding percentage.
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The Cubs, who have struggled to find consistency at the hot corner since the departure of Kris Bryant, might be wishing they had gotten their hands on Arenado's glove as well. With his range and strong arm, Arenado has been able to make several highlight-reel plays this season, helping the Cardinals turn double plays and prevent runs from scoring.

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Arenado's Leadership

As the season wears on, it's clear that Arenado is more than just a talented player - he's also a leader on the field. He's been praised by teammates for his work ethic and ability to motivate others in the clubhouse.

The Cubs, who have struggled with leadership issues in recent years, might be looking at Arenado as a model for what they want from their own players. With his combination of power, defense, and leadership, it's no wonder that Arenado has become a beloved figure in St. Louis.

In the end, the Cubs may have missed out on an opportunity to sign Nolan Arenado last offseason - but they won't be forgetting about him anytime soon. As the Cardinals continue to roll along, Arenado will remain a key factor in their success. For fans of the team, there's no question that he's worth every penny and every moment of excitement he brings to Busch Stadium.

The Cubs might have wanted him, but they'll be stuck watching Arenado from afar as he helps lead his new team into the playoffs.