Ex-MLB GM Confident in Jordan Walker’s Cardinals Breakout

The St. Louis Cardinals entered this season as a team in rebuilding mode. Expectations for a playoff run remain modest.

Early attention shifted from prospect JJ Wetherholt to 23-year-old outfielder Jordan Walker. His hot start has become the season’s brightest storyline.

Bowden’s assessment

Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden told The Athletic he believes Walker’s surge is real. Bowden had once projected Walker as his 2023 rookie of the year pick.

Bowden pointed to offseason work and refined mechanics as the turning point. He suggested the young outfielder now has the tools and confidence to fulfill his potential.

Early-season performance

Walker has opened the campaign with eye-catching numbers. In 15 games he collected 18 hits, including seven home runs and two doubles.

His current OPS stands at 1.138. That pace is unlikely to remain unchanged, but it has created significant optimism.

Historical company

Walker became the fourth Cardinals player to reach seven homers in a team’s first 15 games. He joins Scott Rolen, Mark McGwire, and Albert Pujols in that group.

Changes at the plate

Bowden credited adjustments to Walker’s stance, swing, and overall approach. Those changes followed a stint at the Driveline training facility in the offseason.

Improved mechanics have translated into better contact and more power so far. Bowden believes the improvement is sustainable with proper maintenance.

What this means for St. Louis

An ex-MLB GM is confident in Jordan Walker and sees a long-term outfield solution for the Cardinals. That outcome would accelerate the club’s rebuild.

The team, however, still faces questions about depth and playoff viability. If Walker continues to develop, the roster’s timeline could shift sooner.

Filmogaz.com will monitor Walker’s progress and the broader Cardinals rebuild. Expect regular updates as the season unfolds.