Nolan Arenado Anticipates Success from Hitting Adjustments
Nolan Arenado, the recently traded star infielder, is optimistic about improving his offensive performance with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Having transitioned from the St. Louis Cardinals, he immediately engaged with the team’s hitting coaches to refine his technique. Despite a challenging prior season marred by injury and subpar statistics, Arenado remains confident in his ability to adjust and achieve success at the plate.
Nolan Arenado’s Trade and Expectations
Arenado, at the age of 35, enters the new season after his worst offensive campaign, posting a .666 OPS. He is focused on addressing mechanical issues in his swing. “It’s mostly mechanical,” Arenado stated, emphasizing that correcting his form will help him improve his overall approach and vision of the game.
Key Offseason Adjustments
The Diamondbacks’ coaching staff has already begun working with Arenado. He is reviewing game footage to identify past successful strategies. This offseason has felt more productive for him. “This offseason’s been a lot cleaner,” he remarked.
- Arenado’s career fly ball rate: 25.5% (MLB average: 16.7%)
- His strikeout rate in 2025: 11.2%
- Current offensive expectations: League-average performance could significantly enhance team strength.
Additional Context on the Trade
The Diamondbacks acquired Arenado without sacrificing impactful players. They traded pitcher Jack Martinez, who is not expected to contribute this season. The financial commitment to Arenado is manageable at $11 million over the next two years.
Arenado is recognized not only for his batting but also for his exceptional defensive skills. His resilience as a competitor could be a determining factor in his revival as a hitter.
Potential Impact on Arizona’s Lineup
Last season, Arizona’s top four batting positions achieved an .837 OPS, ranking fourth in Major League Baseball. However, the subsequent batting order only managed a .687 OPS, placing them 14th. Arenado’s performance could vitalize the middle of the lineup.
“Being in a lineup with this group of players is gonna be great,” Arenado mentioned, expressing enthusiasm for contributing to team success.
Ballpark Factors and Future Outlook
Chase Field offers a more favorable hitting environment compared to Busch Stadium, where Arenado previously played. Statcast’s metrics note that Chase Field ranks second in terms of home runs for right-handed hitters over recent seasons. This change may positively influence Arenado’s batting performance.
Having faced a challenging environment with the Cardinals, Arenado is eager for a fresh start. “I’m excited. When you have a new chapter in front of you, it kind of gives you a little bit of energy,” he expressed, looking forward to the opportunities ahead.
Arenado has maintained a rigorous training regimen throughout the offseason and is ahead of schedule for spring training preparations. “My arm’s been feeling great, and I’m moving well,” he concluded, indicating readiness for the upcoming season with the Diamondbacks.
