The St. Louis Cardinals, known for their consistent success in the 21st century, have made a significant move by sending former first-round pick and top prospect Jordan Walker down to Triple-A. The Cardinals, who have qualified for the playoffs 16 times in the last 24 seasons, including four World Series appearances and two championships, are currently facing a rough start to the 2024 season, sitting in last place in the NL Central with a record of 10-14. In a bid to improve their performance, the Cardinals have recalled INF José Fermín and LHP John King from Memphis (AAA), while LHP Zack Thompson and OF Jordan Walker have been optioned to Memphis.
Walker, a 21-year-old outfielder, was selected by the Cardinals with the 21st overall pick in the 2020 June Amateur Draft. He made the team’s Opening Day roster in 2023 and debuted on March 30. Walker started his big-league career with a 12-game hitting streak but was sent down to Triple-A in late April. He returned to the majors in early June and went on a 17-game hitting streak from June 6-29, raising his slash line to .306/.375/.472. Walker struggled in July and August but finished his rookie season with a strong performance in September and October, posting a .304/.363/.490 slash line.
Despite his promising performance in 2023, Walker’s numbers in 2024 have been underwhelming. In 20 games this season, he is batting .155 with no home runs, four runs scored, and four RBI, along with six walks and 18 strikeouts. His struggles have contributed to the Cardinals’ team batting average of .218 and total runs scored of 82, which are both second-worst in the NL and 26th in MLB.
The Cardinals believe that sending Walker to Triple-A will give him an opportunity to refine his swing and regain his form. He has struggled to hit pitches down and away, and his ground ball rate is similar to what it was last season when he was sent down. The Cardinals are hoping that Walker will be able to work on his weaknesses and return to the majors as a valuable contributor to their lineup.
