Cardinals’ Retrospect on a Disappointing Season

The St. Louis Cardinals concluded the 2022-23 baseball season with a sense of disappointment, marked by a 71-91 record that kept them out of the MLB Playoffs. Their placement at the bottom of the National League, however, couldn’t overshadow the immense contributions of longtime pitcher Adam Wainwright during his 18-year tenure with the team.

Adam Wainwright’s Retirement: Paving the Way for Change

With Adam Wainwright’s official retirement, the St. Louis Cardinals acted swiftly to address the change within their roster. Their response to this pivotal moment was to secure infielder Buddy Kennedy from the Oakland Athletics, a move reported by the Saint Louis Post-Dispatch.

Filling the Void Left by Wainwright

While Adam Wainwright had played a pivotal role in anchoring the Cardinals’ defense, the recent roster addition aimed to bolster the team’s offense.

Buddy Kennedy’s Profile: A Versatile Talent

Buddy Kennedy, who had a brief stint with the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2023 season, brings versatility to the Cardinals. The 25-year-old infielder, who shares a high school alma mater with Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout, has participated in 40 big-league games, posting a .206 batting average and a .209 slugging percentage.

The Cardinals’ Offensive Boost

With the Cardinals ranking 13th in MLB team hitting during the regular season, Buddy Kennedy’s addition enhances their offensive depth, positioning them to climb the league rankings.

Defensive Challenges and Wainwright’s Legacy

Despite the offensive improvement, the Cardinals face defensive challenges, having ranked 24th in the league in pitching. Adam Wainwright’s departure naturally depletes the team’s experience in this critical position.

An Ongoing Journey: Addressing Flaws

The signing of Buddy Kennedy signifies the Cardinals’ commitment to addressing their weaknesses and striving for a return to the MLB Playoffs, marking the next chapter in their baseball journey.