ST. LOUIS — In a poignant farewell moment at the St. Louis Cardinals’ home stadium, Nolan Arenado, the team’s third-base icon, addressed the people who have supported him along the way — a heartfelt message and a heartwarming response to rumors that he might leave the team.
“Guys, I love this place. I love you — the fans — and I know you want to win. I love you too. Whatever comes next, I have no regrets.”
That was Arenado’s recent statement when asked about his uncertain future at BuschStadium.
His sentiment resonated as a message to millions of red hearts — that his time in St. Louis might be coming to an end.
On September 21, before a game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Arenado was pulled from the lineup and walked to center field. More than 30,000 spectators stood and applauded, an image that SportsIllustrated described as “what seemed like his last appearance as a Cardinal.”
He bowed, his eyes filled with both pride and a gentle sadness — like a legend looking back on his journey.
In a message to fans:
“I know I’m still under contract. But I also know this organization needs to move on. If I’m an obstacle to the team’s future, I understand. And I respect you for supporting me.”
Arenado came to St. Louis from the Colorado Rockies with high expectations: to bring home a title, and make the #28 jersey a symbol at BuschStadium. However, the reality was not as perfect as the dream. His Cardinals career still had its bright moments — but the team went through three straight seasons without making the Playoffs. That made Arenado and many others begin to sense: the time was coming: “the end of the road.”
“You guys are always great. You want a winning team. I want that for you. I wish we had done a little better the last few years.”
In the video posted online, Arenado looks directly into the camera and says:
“Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for every cheer, every clap, every time I walk out on the field in red. No matter what happens tomorrow — whether I’m here or not — you’re a big part of my heart.”
Not many athletes are willing to put their emotions on display in front of fans like that. Arenado did it — with rare sincerity: admitting mistakes, being grateful for the support, and accepting that he might have to leave what has become “home.”
Arenado’s contract is still up — but there’s more than one question mark: will the Cardinals’ third base be where he ends up? There are reports that the team is looking to rejuvenate its roster, and that a separation between Arenado and the team may be “necessary.”
Arenado himself has admitted that he is ready for “a new look” if necessary.
But before he turns the page, he wants to make sure: he said goodbye properly — to those who have accompanied him, shared his joys and sorrows.
Goodbye is not goodbye. But with this message, NolanArenado is not just saying thank you — he is sending a promise: no matter what tomorrow brings, he will always remember the red jersey, BuschStadium, and the fans who always believed in him. And this message will resonate forever in the hearts of Cardinals fans.
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