The St. Louis Cardinals are currently facing significant offensive challenges that are impacting their standing in the NL Central, with Nolan Arenado’s offensive struggles playing a notable role. Their long-standing rivalry with the Chicago Cubs has shifted recently, as the Cubs are outperforming the Cardinals in many aspects of the game this season, a situation that became increasingly evident by late May.
The Cardinals’ power production has notably decreased, with their home run frequency falling from one every 35 at-bats in April to one every 40 in May. This decline points to deeper inconsistencies in the team’s overall offense, affecting vital players including Arenado, Lars Nootbaar, and Nolan Gorman.
MLB Analyst Comments on Cardinals’ Offensive Woes
MLB analyst Bernie Miklasz addressed the Cardinals’ offensive struggles during his Tuesday show, emphasizing that the team’s problem extends beyond just a dip in power hitting. He described May as a difficult month for key hitters, with Arenado’s underperformance being especially concerning. Miklasz expressed a desire to see more players contributing with consistent hitting rather than relying on just a few.
“I believe. I’d like to see some other people join the doubles party, right? That’s the problem for the Cardinals.” —Bernie Miklasz, MLB Analyst
“When I sit around and think about this—and look up numbers when I’m just wondering—unless the Cubs collapse offensively, which again is not realistic—they might settle down a little bit, but it’s too good of an offense to go dry for a long period of time.” —Bernie Miklasz, MLB Analyst
“So I keep wondering: How can the Cardinals offensively keep up with the Cubs’ offense? It’s a hell of a challenge, I tell you what.” —Bernie Miklasz, MLB Analyst
Comparing Cubs’ and Cardinals’ Offensive Performances
The Chicago Cubs have outclassed the Cardinals in multiple offensive metrics, including home runs, slugging percentage, on-base percentage, as well as steals, triples, and efficiency with runners in scoring position. This comparison underlines the extent of St. Louis’ offensive struggles within their own division.
Interestingly, the Cubs’ offensive success is not limited to their home stadium, Wrigley Field. They have posted stronger hitting numbers on the road, challenging assumptions that St. Louis might be disadvantaged by any ballpark effects.
“The Cubs’ hitting performance—hate to tell you this—is better on the road this season than it is at Wrigley Field,” Miklasz noted. “And the Cardinals actually hit better—much better—at Busch Stadium than they do on the road. So unlike the Cardinals, the Cubs’ offense is above average at home and on the road.” —Bernie Miklasz, MLB Analyst
“The Cardinals are below average offensively on the road. I can’t figure it out, but they’re really good at Busch Stadium. It makes no sense, but those are the facts.” —Bernie Miklasz, MLB Analyst
Upcoming Series Intensifies Pressure on Cardinals’ Offense
The Cardinals are set to face the Cubs in a four-game series starting June 23, a crucial opportunity for St. Louis to challenge their divisional rivals. However, without a marked improvement in hitting from leaders like Arenado and a more reliable approach to producing runs, the Cardinals will likely continue to struggle against the potent Cubs lineup.
Addressing these offensive issues is essential if the Cardinals hope to remain competitive in the NL Central, particularly as they aim to close the gap on a Cubs team that has demonstrated balanced strength both at home and on the road this season.