After a dismal beginning to their season, the St. Louis Cardinals have begun to accumulate victories and are gradually re-entering the National League Central competition.
Following a three-game sweep of the Baltimore Orioles, the Cardinals boast an 8-2 record in their last 10 games and are now just five games behind the first-place Milwaukee Brewers.
In this recent upswing, two emerging talents have ignited the team’s offense.
Alec Burleson, outfielder
2024 stats: .298/.328/.458, five home runs and 17 RBI in 42 games
Similar to much of the Cardinals’ offense, Burleson struggled initially while competing for playing time early in 2024.
Following injuries and roster changes, the 25-year-old secured a regular spot in the lineup and has been performing well. In his last 15 games, the left-handed power hitter is slashing .377/.389/.623 with three home runs, seven RBIs, and two stolen bases.
Since making his MLB debut in 2022, Burleson has had difficulty replicating the power he displayed in the minors. Entering the 2024 season with just nine home runs in 123 career games, he is now just three home runs shy of his career-high of eight and is on track to easily surpass it during what is shaping up to be a career year.
With first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and third baseman Nolan Arenado struggling at the plate, his added power has been crucial for the lineup.
Burleson appears poised to be a fixture in the Cardinals’ lineup for years to come.
Masyn Winn, shortstop
2024 stats: .295/.348/.432, two home runs, 14 RBI and seven stolen bases in 44 games played
One of the Cardinals’ top prospects at the start of the season, the 22-year-old had a tough introduction to the majors in 2023, posting a .172/.230/.238 slash line with two home runs and 12 RBIs in 37 games.
Following an offseason of adjustments, the young shortstop is beginning to emerge as a potential future cornerstone for the Cardinals, showcasing both his outstanding defense and his improving offense.
In his last 15 games, he is slashing .321/.339/.528 with two home runs, seven RBIs, and two stolen bases.
Renowned for his defensive skills and powerful arm, Winn had a breakout year in the minors last season, hitting 18 home runs and driving in 61 RBIs in his first Triple-A season, which earned him his major league debut.
After a slow start this season, the game is finally starting to slow down for him, and he is beginning to realize his potential in St. Louis.
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