The St. Louis Cardinals currently do not have Nolan Arenado included in their everyday lineup, as the third baseman was placed on the Injured List shortly after the 2025 Major League Baseball trade deadline. Arenado remained with the Cardinals following the deadline but was sidelined due to a right shoulder strain. This decision to place him on the 10-day injured list came before the Cardinals’ 4-1 loss to the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on Friday night.

Although Arenado is a 10-time Gold Glove Award winner and an eight-time All-Star, he has recently experienced a significant decline in his offensive production. His power numbers for the season have sunk to a career low, coinciding with the onset of the shoulder problem. Between these struggles and his placement on the Injured List, questions have arisen about the impact of the injury on his performance.

What Has Caused the Drop in Arenado’s Performance?

The 34-year-old third baseman has not hit a home run since June 21, marking a 25-game stretch without a long ball, which is close to his longest career drought of 29 games, something he has experienced twice before. Given the timing of the shoulder strain in relation to this power drought, it is plausible that the injury is a key factor behind his struggles at the plate. The physical limitation from the shoulder likely affected his ability to generate power throughout this season.

Will Nolan Arenado Return to the Cardinals This Season?

Speculation quickly arose following the trade deadline and Arenado’s placement on the Injured List, with some assuming that his time playing for St. Louis had come to an end. Rumors about a possible departure intensified on social media, causing concern among fans about the third baseman’s future with the team.

However, Derrick Goold, a writer for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, has indicated a strong possibility that Arenado will return to play for the Cardinals this year. He shared,

“He’s working in Jupiter, Florida, with the full-throttle intent to return this season and play for this team. The Cardinals expect him to be back in the lineup this season, and they are operating with that plan/hope.” —Derrick Goold, St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Goold emphasized a hopeful outlook, which contrasts the more pessimistic rumors circulating among fans. The Cardinals appear committed to Arenado’s recovery and eventual return, planning with the expectation that he will contribute again before the season concludes.

Context and Implications for the Cardinals Moving Forward

The timing of Arenado’s injury, coming just after the trade deadline when the Cardinals decided to focus on rebuilding rather than immediate contention, adds complexity to his situation. As one of the team’s star players facing challenges, his health and performance are crucial factors for the organization’s short- and long-term plans. The uncertainty surrounding his shoulder limits how much he can contribute while injured, but a successful recovery could still see him playing a key role later this season.

Fans who were concerned due to the social media firestorm following his injury might find reassurance in the Cardinals’ approach, as they seem hopeful rather than resigned. Nolan Arenado’s return would not only bolster the team’s lineup but also send a positive message about the club’s willingness to support its veteran players during difficult stretches.

As the season progresses, tracking Arenado’s rehabilitation in Jupiter, Florida, will be important for understanding his readiness to return, while the Cardinals continue managing their roster and rebuilding efforts.