Nolan Arenado, the star third baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals, has experienced a series of injuries over recent seasons that have impacted both his performance and the team’s dynamics.
2023 Season: Back Spasms Lead to Season’s End
In late September 2023, Arenado was placed on the 10-day injured list due to persistent back spasms, effectively ending his season. This marked the first time since 2014 that he did not achieve at least 30 home runs and 100 RBIs in a full season, concluding with 26 home runs and 93 RBIs. Arenado expressed his desire to continue playing but acknowledged the necessity of prioritizing his health. The Cardinals, already out of playoff contention, faced a challenging season, with Arenado’s injury highlighting the team’s struggles. citeturn0search5
June 2024: Elbow Contusion After Hit by Pitch
On June 19, 2024, during a game against the Miami Marlins, Arenado was struck on the right elbow by a 94.6 mph fastball from reliever Huascar Brazoban. He immediately fell to the ground in pain and exited the game. X-rays revealed a right elbow contusion, but fortunately, there was no structural damage. Arenado was listed as day-to-day, expressing hope to return to action within a few days, depending on his recovery. citeturn0search9
July 2023: Ankle Injury Against the Cubs
In July 2023, Arenado exited a game against the Chicago Cubs after fouling a pitch off his left ankle. He reported stiffness in the ankle following an 87-minute rain delay but assured that he would be ready for the next game. This incident underscored Arenado’s resilience and commitment to playing through minor injuries. citeturn0search14
Impact on the Cardinals and Arenado’s Performance
Arenado’s injuries have had a notable impact on the Cardinals. His absence during critical periods has affected the team’s offensive and defensive capabilities. Despite these setbacks, Arenado has maintained a strong performance when healthy, consistently contributing to the team’s efforts. The Cardinals have had to adapt to these challenges, emphasizing the importance of depth and resilience within the roster.
As of March 2025, Arenado has been participating in spring training, aiming to return to peak performance for the upcoming season. His health and contributions will be pivotal as the Cardinals strive for success in the highly competitive National League Central division.
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