The St. Louis Cardinals have made a significant move in their quest for the third and final wild-card spot in the National League by calling up their highly regarded young outfielder, Jordan Walker. The decision comes as infielder Matt Carpenter has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a lower-back strain.
Walker, at just 22 years old, is no stranger to the big leagues. He initially reached the majors at the age of 20, having been drafted as the No. 21 overall pick in 2020. Despite his rapid ascent, Walker began his professional career without having played above Double-A before his major league debut. His rookie season in 2023 showcased his potential as he hit 16 home runs and achieved a 113 OPS+ over 117 games for St. Louis.
This year, however, has presented its challenges for Walker. Over his first 20 games in the 2024 season, he was batting a mere .155/.239/.259. This slump led to his assignment back to Triple-A Memphis, where he worked diligently on his game. One particular adjustment he made was adopting a more open stance at the plate, a change that he and the Cardinals hope will pay dividends as he returns to the major league lineup.
Walker's return could not come at a more crucial time for the Cardinals. Currently, they trail the Atlanta Braves by 1 1/2 games and sit just behind the New York Mets in the standings. The Cardinals have faced significant struggles throughout the season, particularly in their offense against left-handed pitching. The hope is that Walker's presence will provide a much-needed boost.
In his career, Walker has shown he can contribute significantly when he's on his game. Initially drafted as a third baseman, he has since transitioned to the outfield, adding versatility to the Cardinals' roster. His experience, combined with the adjustments he made in Triple-A, could prove vital as the Cardinals make their playoff push.
The immediate impact of Walker's return will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The Cardinals' decision to call him back up to the majors underscores their recognition of his talent and the belief that he can be pivotal in their success as the season's end approaches.
As the Cardinals continue to vie for a wild-card spot, the spotlight will be on Walker to see if he can replicate his rookie season success and help power St. Louis into the postseason. With his new batting stance and a fresh start, Jordan Walker is poised to be a key figure in the Cardinals' playoff aspirations.