Tim Spyers/Associated Press
Offensive frustration is mounting for the St. Louis Cardinals, who have found themselves in a prolonged slump. Over the past 12 games, they’ve managed to score more than three runs in a single game only once. This lack of offensive production has left them feeling exasperated and eager for a turnaround.
In their recent matchup against the visiting Milwaukee Brewers, the Cardinals suffered a narrow defeat, falling 2-1 in 10 innings. The game was a microcosm of their struggles—leaving 12 runners on base and going 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position. Manager Oliver Marmol expressed his concern, saying, “It’s been that way for a little bit. We’ve got to be able to score more runs; there’s no secret to that.”
Saturday’s Reset Opportunity
The Cardinals now face a crucial middle game of the three-game series against the Brewers. They’re seeking a reset—a breakout performance that can rejuvenate their offense. Miles Mikolas takes the mound for St. Louis, hoping to turn things around. Mikolas, with a 1-2 record and a 5.82 ERA this season, hasn’t received much run support in his starts. His job remains clear: “Keep runs off the board.”
In his latest outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Mikolas endured a 5-0 loss. Despite throwing four shutout innings, he was charged with five runs, including a pivotal hit by Joc Pederson. Mikolas reflected on the play, saying, “He hit a chopper down the line. Sometimes that kind of thing happens. That’s baseball.”
Feb 22, 2024; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Milwaukee Brewers pitcher DL Hall poses for a portrait during Media Day at Maryvale Baseball Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
DL Hall’s Challenge
On the opposing side, the Brewers will start left-hander DL Hall (0-1, 7.11 ERA). Hall, facing his former team, aims to rebound from a difficult start against the Baltimore Orioles. In that game, he allowed five runs on eight hits, including three homers. Hall acknowledged the challenge posed by the Brewers’ lineup: “They’re some of the best players in baseball. You want to face the best and see where you stack up.”
Brewers manager Pat Murphy remains optimistic about Hall’s potential, considering the windy conditions and emotional factors at play. “DL did not have his best outing,” Murphy said. “Hopefully next time I get them.”
As the Cardinals and Brewers clash once again, all eyes are on the bats. Will St. Louis break free from their offensive struggles, or will the Brewers continue to stifle them? Baseball fans eagerly await the answer in this important matchup.
