Let's get the obvious observation out of the way: Jordan Walker is having a bad season in 2025.
The former top prospect has seemingly been mired in a two-year long slump since a strong rookie campaign in 2023, and 2025 may be his worst effort yet. The 23-year-old outfielder is slashing .233/.288/.327 with a career-low four home runs and a career-worst 30.9% strikeout rate, good for a 74 wRC+ and -0.7 fWAR.
However, the Cardinals have repeatedly stood by their right fielder through his struggles, and though the hope may be faint, Walker is starting to repay their faith.