An Epochal Open Letter from Nolan Arenado to the St. Louis Cardinals, Fans, and the Whole Cardinals Community
Dear Cardinal Nation,
As I sit down to write this letter, my heart is full of appreciation, thought, and emotion. It’s difficult to find words to adequately describe what the past few years have meant to me—what you’ve meant to me. But I want to try.
This letter is to every coach, teammate, staff person, fan, media member, and community member who has ever supported me. I felt it from the time I came in St. Louis: the weight of history, the pride in wearing the birds on the bat, and the warmth of a fandom unlike any other in Major League Baseball. And now, after years of wearing this uniform, I’d like to pause and say something simple but heartfelt: thank you.
To the St. Louis Cardinals organisation.
From beginning to end, this franchise has been nothing short of spectacular. When I originally got here, I wasn’t seeking for a fresh chapter, but for a place where I could be myself, grow, and contribute to something bigger. You gave me that and more.
Thank you, ownership, front office personnel, and the entire baseball operations crew, for believing in me not only as a player but also as a person. You embraced me with open arms, acknowledged my quest, and pushed me to go even higher. You fostered an environment in which greatness was not only a goal, but the norm. That standard has helped me become a better athlete, leader, and man.
To my former and current coaches and managers: your guidance, trust, and knowledge shaped me in ways that statistics cannot measure. Whether it was honing my approach at the plate, assisting me with my fielding, or simply delivering a nice word when I needed it the most, you were always there. I hope I have made you proud.
To my teammates and brothers. Competitors. Friends.
This experience revolves around you. We wore that outfit every day, laced up our cleats, and went to combat together. You encouraged, supported, challenged, and celebrated alongside me. The clubhouse chuckles, the bus rides, the post-game discussions, and the quiet, shared understanding of what it takes to compete at this level—those are the memories I’ll cherish forever.
Thank you for believing in me as a leader, holding me accountable, and allowing me to be a part of something that felt like a family. The relationship we formed extends beyond baseball.
Cardinals fans are the heart and spirit of the team.
Your passion is unparalleled. Whether it was a hot summer afternoon at Busch Stadium or a cool October evening under the lights, your enthusiasm never wavered. You were there for us through the highs, the lows, the exhilarating walk-offs, and the hard-fought grind of a 162-game schedule.
I can’t tell you how many times I looked into the stands and saw a young fan wearing #28, glove in hand, eyes filled with dreams. Alternatively, older generations—those who have followed this squad for decades—pass down stories and customs as treasured heirlooms. Your support is more than simply applause from the stands; it’s part of what makes this game so special.
You did not simply accept me; you welcomed me. From chants of my name to social media comments, charity activities, and the wave of red throughout the city on game days, I felt your love at every turn. I never took it for granted.
To the City of Saint Louis
You accepted me as one of your own.
Beyond the stadium, this city became a place I was pleased to call home. I’ve gotten to know its streets, culture, cuisine, and, most significantly, its people. Your politeness, humility, and work ethic exemplify the spirit of this team.
Thank you, St. Louis, for providing me with the kind of community that every athlete strives for—a location where the game is important, but the people are more important.
Reflecting on the journey.
When I think back on my time with the Cardinals, it’s not just the Gold Gloves or All-Star choices that stand out—it’s the development. You assisted me in transitioning from a ballplayer pursuing greatness to a human being who recognises the importance of connection, legacy, and giving back.
You’ve allowed me to represent something bigger than myself. Wearing the Cardinals uniform entails a responsibility: to respect those who came before, to honour the game, and to inspire those who will follow. That is a responsibility I have never taken lightly, and I hope I have carried it out properly.
Looking ahead.
No matter where life and baseball lead me next, know that a piece of my heart will always be in St. Louis.
This is not a goodbye; it is a thank you. It’s a recognition of everything we’ve shared and created together. And it is a promise: wherever I go, I will carry the Cardinals’ spirit with me.
To everyone who has accompanied me on this trip, thank you for your love, support, and the opportunity to be a part of something everlasting.
With my whole heart,
Nolan Arenado,
#28,
St. Louis Cardinals