The focus on the St. Louis Cardinals this week is going to be around the players who find themselves rumored in trade talks, but the projected 2026 lineup has plenty of storylines of its own. A trade of Nolan Arenado and/or Brendan Donovan will create openings in the infield, but the outfield looks to be mostly set.
Manager Oli Marmol still believes in Jordan Walker's potential.
Lars Nootbaar is currently rehabbing after a scary heel surgery, making it hard to count on him to be ready for Opening Day. That makes it likely that we will see an outfield of Silver Slugger Alec Burleson in left, Gold Glove finalist Victor Scott II in center, and former top prospect Jordan Walker in right field.