NEWS NOW : Can One Returning Bat Finally Solve the Cardinals’ Most Devastating Offensive Flaw?

Cardinals’ Biggest Offensive Flaw Hangs on Jordan Walker’s Return

The St. Louis Cardinals have outperformed preseason expectations and find themselves in the middle of the National League playoff race at the All-Star break. Still, one glaring issue continues to plague the team: their struggles against left-handed pitching. With Jordan Walker nearing a return from the injured list, fans are hopeful he can be part of the solution.

Walker, who last played on June 22, recently wrapped up his 12th rehab game prior to the break. Whether he rejoins the lineup immediately or shortly afterward, his presence is expected to bring some offensive energy—particularly in matchups against lefties.

Can Jordan Walker Solve the Cardinals’ Southpaw Problem?

Despite being 10th in MLB in total runs scored, St. Louis ranks poorly against left-handed pitching. Their 88 wRC+ against lefties ranks 18th in the majors—12% below the league average. They’re also just 20th in batting average (.232) and 21st in OPS (.658) in those matchups. As a result, they hold a losing record (16–19) in games started by left-handed pitchers.

Only a couple of hitters—namely Ivan Herrera and Willson Contreras—have been effective in these situations. Surprisingly, even right-handed bats like Nolan Arenado (97 wRC+) and Masyn Winn (91) have been subpar. Alec Burleson has especially struggled in right field against lefties, with a .578 OPS and a 62 wRC+—a role fans would like Walker to take over.

History Suggests Walker Might Not Be the Answer

Although Walker’s return could appear promising, his own numbers don’t support that optimism. In his short MLB career, he’s posted a respectable .723 OPS against righties, but his .638 OPS vs. lefties is significantly worse. This season, those numbers have dipped even more—.587 OPS vs. righties and an alarming .513 vs. left-handers.

While the idea of Walker solving the Cardinals’ lefty struggles sounds good in theory, he’s yet to show he’s capable of doing so in practice. Fans can only hope that this time, things might be different.