Following back-to-back disappointing seasons in 2019 and 2020, and a tumultuous feud with former Rockies general manager Jeff Bridich, Nolan Arenado was abruptly traded to the St. Louis Cardinals a month before the 2021 season began, without an opportunity to say goodbye to Denver. Left in the wake were thousands of fans who felt hurt and betrayed.
Nearly five months later, Arenado jogged out of the dugout at Coors Field when his name was announced as the starting third baseman for the National League. As he greeted his teammates already standing on the first baseline, he tipped his cap to 49,184 fans who were united in giving him a standing ovation.