**Nolan Arenado Responds to Criticism Over ‘Business Decision’ Comments, Clarifies Intentions**
St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado has responded to recent criticism following comments made by his agent, Scott Boras, in which Boras referred to Arenado’s decision to sit out a key game as a “business decision.” Arenado clarified his stance on Tuesday, calling the statement a “poor choice of words” that did not reflect his own thinking or approach to the game.
Arenado’s absence from the lineup during a critical game earlier this week had raised eyebrows among fans and media alike. Boras, speaking to reporters, mentioned that Arenado’s decision not to play was driven by his personal health and the broader context of his long-term career. Boras suggested that, with the postseason on the line and Arenado dealing with minor physical ailments, it was a choice made in the interest of protecting his client’s future value.
However, Arenado felt the need to address the situation personally after his agent’s comments led to confusion among fans and even some Cardinals teammates. The seven-time Gold Glove winner told reporters in a press conference that the term “business decision” was not one he would have used, explaining that it didn’t fully capture the mindset he maintained when deciding whether or not to take the field.
“I want to make it clear that I don’t think of baseball as just a business, and I didn’t sit out because of some cold, calculated decision,” Arenado said. “I’ve always played the game with passion, and my goal has always been to help my team win, whether I’m fully healthy or not. I’ve dealt with little things all year, but it’s never about just ‘business.’ It’s about being smart and giving everything I can to my team, especially when the stakes are high.”
Arenado’s comments came after his decision to sit out against the Cubs during a late-season series with playoff implications. The Cardinals were in a tight race for a wildcard spot, and the game was viewed as pivotal. Many felt the absence of their star player was a setback, given Arenado’s importance to the lineup.
The third baseman did admit, however, that he had been managing some nagging injuries in recent weeks. With the Cardinals’ postseason hopes dwindling, Arenado recognized the importance of maintaining his health for the long term, especially as he is signed to a significant contract that extends through 2027. He emphasized that his decision to rest wasn’t a reflection of a lack of effort or desire to win, but rather a calculated choice to avoid exacerbating injuries that could hinder his performance.
Arenado’s remarks were aimed at clarifying any misinterpretation of his commitment to the team, stating he always prioritizes playing whenever possible. “I always want to be out there. But sometimes, you have to make sure you’re doing the right thing for yourself and your team,” Arenado concluded.
Despite the controversy, Arenado’s standing with the Cardinals remains strong, and his leadership in the clubhouse continues to be valued by his teammates. The third baseman’s exceptional defensive play and consistent bat have been cornerstones of St. Louis’ success since his arrival in 2021.
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