PHOENIX -- Nolan Arenado has accomplished a lot in what could very well end up being a Hall of Fame career, but one thing he hasn't done is play an inning on defense anywhere other than third base.
That might change in 2027.
"We've talked about Nolan playing some first base, so that might be something we take a look at," Arizona general manager Mike Hazen said.
Why would the Diamondbacks move a player who has won 10 Gold Glove Awards and six Platinum Gloves off third base?
Well, first, let's be clear: The Diamondbacks are not talking about a full position switch, but rather a scenario in which Arenado would play some first base.
That would be beneficial for both Arizona and Arenado.
Playing first base exacts less of a physical toll than third base, and as much as Arenado fights against Father Time with an intense work ethic, at 35 years old, he is also realistic about how many games he can play each year.
"I think it's taken a toll on him physically a little bit," Hazen said. "So we're trying to be mindful of that."
From the Diamondbacks' perspective, having Arenado play first base at times would give them a bigger pool of players to choose from as they look to add another bat this winter.
"It could help us, depending on what's out there in the market for available players, by giving us more flexibility," Hazen said. "It opens the door for us, externally, to consider different ways to improve the team."
The Diamondbacks acquired Arenado last offseason from the Cardinals for Minor League pitcher Jack Martinez, and the move was a big plus for Arizona.
Arenado had his best season since his 2022 campaign in which he finished third in the NL MVP race. In 152 games this past season, Arenado slashed .255/.331/.475 and had a 122 OPS+.
"Incredible," Hazen said of Arenado's season. "He had a great year. You know, I think lost in some of the disappointment of not making the playoffs and [finishing] just out of it is some of the individual performances, like Arenado's."
The Diamondbacks discussed the possibility of playing some first base with Arenado toward the end of the season and again just this week. Hazen said Arenado was not only open to the possibility, but said he might go play some winter ball for the first time just to get some work in at the position.
"He wants to go play," Hazen said. "He's said, 'I've never played winter ball, I want to go.' And so, I was like, 'Look, [Geraldo] Perdomo goes and plays winter ball every year for a couple weeks, and he swears that it really helps set him up for the season. So not being a pitcher and being a veteran position player, I trust that you're gonna take care of what you need to take care of, and I don't have an issue with it.' I don't know that it's a done deal, but we were just talking about it."