The 2025 season is shaping up to be a pivotal one for the St. Louis Cardinals. According to Katie Woo of *The Athletic* (subscription required), the organization is taking a new approach. While there’s been much speculation about a youth movement, past attempts to rely on younger players were often undermined by questionable late-season moves to improve the team.
This season presents a chance for the Cardinals to fully embrace their young talent. Key prospects will have significant opportunities to prove their value. Outgoing President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak emphasized that while the team will explore ways to improve, the focus will remain on developing younger players. “We are going to find pathways to allow our younger players to play and see what they can do,” Mozeliak said.
In recent years, the Cardinals have traded away promising players like Randy Arozarena, Zac Gallen, and Sandy Alcantara in deals that didn’t pan out. This year, the organization hopes to avoid repeating those mistakes. They are building around a core of young talent, including Andre Pallante, Masyn Winn, Ivan Herrera, Pedro Pages, Nolan Gorman, and Brendan Donovan. Players like Jordan Walker, Alec Burleson, and Lars Nootbaar are also poised to take on larger roles.
Walker, despite his potential, has yet to find his stride. A converted third baseman now playing in the outfield, he has struggled defensively and at the plate. In 2024, he hit just .201/.253/.266 with a .619 OPS, five home runs, and 20 RBIs. This season could be crucial for him to demonstrate consistency and fulfill his promise.
Burleson was one of the team’s better hitters in 2024, posting a .269/.314/.420 slash line with 21 home runs and 78 RBIs. However, his role lacked stability as he frequently shifted positions and served as a designated hitter. With Willson Contreras transitioning to first base and Paul Goldschmidt no longer with the team, Burleson may get a chance to establish himself as a consistent force at one position.
Nootbaar faced challenges staying healthy in 2024 but remains a versatile outfielder and dynamic presence at the plate and on the basepaths. He hit .244/.342/.417 with a .759 OPS, 12 home runs, and 45 RBIs. As a fan favorite, he’ll aim to secure a regular spot in the outfield while staying healthy.
Despite fan concerns about another disappointing season, the Cardinals have implemented coaching changes and personnel shifts to create more opportunities for player development. If young players like Gorman, Winn, Donovan, Walker, and others seize the moment, 2025 could bring excitement and optimism back to St. Louis baseball.
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