Diamondbacks to Move Nolan Arenado to First Base
Arizona officials are considering a position change for the veteran infielder ahead of the 2027 season.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Baseball
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The Arizona Diamondbacks are planning to shift 35-year-old infielder Nolan Arenado to first base for the 2027 season to increase roster flexibility. The team and the player discussed the potential move throughout October 2026.
Why it matters
The transition aims to reduce physical strain on the aging star while creating necessary space for the organization to add new talent through free agency. Moving Arenado provides the team with greater versatility in its defensive alignment.
Arenado, a winner of 10 Gold Glove Awards and 6 Platinum Gloves, posted a .255/.331/.475 slash line and 122 OPS+ during his 152-game 2026 campaign. These metrics reflect his performance while playing exclusively at third base.
The players
Nolan Arenado
He is a 35-year-old infielder who was acquired by the Diamondbacks from the Cardinals during the previous offseason.
Arizona Diamondbacks
They are a professional baseball team based in Phoenix that competes in the National League West division.
The details
The Phoenix-based organization views first base as a less physically demanding role for the veteran acquired from the Cardinals. Arenado has expressed interest in playing winter ball to gain experience at his new position before the start of the 2027 season.
Timeline
Arenado played 152 games during the 2026 season.
The team and Arenado discussed the position switch in October 2026.
Arenado may transition to first base for the 2027 season.
Season Trajectory
This position shift aligns with the historical trend of aging infielders moving to first base to preserve their career longevity. By repositioning Arenado, the Diamondbacks are attempting to maintain his offensive impact while managing the physical toll of a 162-game schedule.
Moving Arenado to first base opens a starting vacancy at third base that the team must fill through the free agent market or internal promotion. This change effectively shifts how the Diamondbacks approach their defensive alignment and overall roster construction for the upcoming year.
The takeaway
Transitioning a veteran player to a less demanding defensive position is a common strategy to extend a star's career while addressing team payroll and roster needs. Readers should monitor winter league rosters to see if Arenado successfully adopts the new defensive assignment.
Further reading
For more updates on roster moves and team strategy, visit the Baseball section.
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Is it wise for veteran athletes to change positions to prolong their playing careers?
