Nolan Arenado, after an offseason filled with trade speculation, is back for his fifth season with the St. Louis Cardinals. While his return gives the Cardinals stability at third base, it could have a ripple effect on the playing time of younger teammates looking to carve out everyday roles.

“I’m ready to work,” Arenado said. “It’s not awkward for my teammates and my coaches. And to be honest with you, it’s not really awkward with the front office. They have a job to do and I have a job to do.”

Nolan Arenado and John Mozeliak had gone a long stretch without speaking directly with each other, so the two hopped on a phone call on Friday to clear the air of any potential awkwardness ahead of Arenado’s anticipated Sunday arrival at St. Louis Cardinals spring training.