The Diamondbacks’ Gamble on Nolan Arenado Has Paid Off

Just Baseball argues that the Arizona Diamondbacks' decision to trade for Nolan Arenado has proved to be a major success despite the team missing the playoffs. The 35-year-old third baseman revitalized his offensive production during the 2026 season, leading the team with 30 home runs while batting .255/.331/.475 with a 120 wRC+ across 152 games.

The outlet credits Arenado's bounce-back campaign to improved results against fastballs and a heavy pull-side fly-ball approach. While warning that underlying expected statistics and increased breaking pitches could make a repeat in 2027 difficult, the writer considers the low-cost acquisition a clear win for Arizona regardless.