Cardinals’ Jordan Walker Keeps Positive Outlook Despite Demotion

The St. Louis Cardinals have high hopes for the young slugger Jordan Walker, but unfortunately, things haven’t gone as planned.

Walker has Rough Start Two Years in a Row

Walker entered the 2023 season as MLB’s number one prospect at the young age of 20 years old. Making the transition to the big leagues is a difficult one, even for the most talented young players. The transition was made even more difficult due to the Cardinals’ need for him to switch from third base to outfield.

Understandably, he was sent to Memphis to get things right at the plate in addition to more time in the outfield. He bounced back nicely from the demotion and hit .276 with 16 homeruns in the major leagues. Furthermore, his defense continued to improve. Unfortunately for Walker, the 2024 season started the same. He started the season as St. Louis’ starting right fielder but hit just .155 over 20 games.

Walker Trying to Relax

When the young slugger was asked about his current approach to the situation. He said he’s mainly focused on trying to relax while he’s at the plate, something he struggled with in the majors.

“It’s definitely tough to relax up there,” he said. “Those games are high stress, fans yelling at you, everything like that. But I think one thing I did better last year that I didn’t do as much at the start of this year is just telling myself that, putting myself in a more relaxed mental state before the game.”

“Honestly, for me, as always, I’m just trying to be the best person I can be,” Walker continued. “I think reps are always good. And if that was the way to get it, in Memphis, then I’m all for it. I just want to get an opportunity to hit and get out of it. And I know I will. I’m always going to have faith in myself with hitting.”