St. Louis Cardinals star third baseman Nolan Arenado has reportedly expressed strong disapproval of teammate Luken Baker following the team’s recent matchup against the Cincinnati Reds. According to sources close to the team, Arenado voiced his frustration directly to the coaching staff, saying he no longer wants to share the field with Baker due to ongoing misunderstandings and tensions between the two players.
The reported fallout occurred after the Cardinals’ narrow loss to the Reds, where both players were seen in a tense exchange in the dugout. While the exact cause of the dispute remains unclear, insiders suggest it stemmed from a series of on-field miscommunications that led to a critical defensive error in the late innings. Arenado, known for his intensity and leadership, was visibly frustrated during and after the game.
This is not the first sign of friction between Arenado and Baker. Team sources claim the pair have clashed several times throughout the season, primarily over in-game decisions and perceived lack of accountability. However, this latest incident appears to have pushed Arenado to a breaking point.
“Nolan wants to win, and when things don’t go right, especially because of miscommunication, it eats at him,” one source said. “He felt that the mistake was avoidable and that it’s part of a pattern.”
The Cardinals organization has not released an official statement, and it remains unclear how the coaching staff will respond to Arenado’s request. Whether this internal conflict affects team chemistry or playing time going forward remains to be seen.
With the season in full swing and playoff hopes still alive, the Cardinals will need to manage these personal dynamics carefully to maintain focus and unity.