Cardinals' Powerful Offense Fuels Hot Streak Ahead of Marlins Series

St. Louis looking to extend season-best five-game win streak against Miami

Apr. 20, 2026 at 6:54am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic action on the field.The Cardinals' balanced, powerful offense has them feeling confident as they take on the struggling Marlins.Today in Miami

The St. Louis Cardinals are riding a season-best five-game win streak, thanks in large part to their powerful offense that ranks among the National League's best in home runs and runs scored. The Cardinals, led by breakout star Jordan Walker, believe their deep, balanced lineup makes them a tough out from top to bottom as they prepare to face the Miami Marlins in a three-game series.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' offensive surge has them confident heading into a series against the struggling Marlins, who have lost seven of their last nine games. A continued hot streak could help St. Louis build an early lead in the NL Central division race.

The details

The Cardinals entered Sunday ranked third in the National League in home runs and seventh in runs scored. They have scored at least five runs in five straight games. 23-year-old Jordan Walker has been a big part of the offensive outburst, hitting eight home runs with 16 RBIs and a 1.013 OPS in 21 games this season. Walker has improved his launch angle and is tapping into his power potential after struggling to meet expectations last year. The Cardinals also boast a strong defense, led by Gold Glove shortstop Masyn Winn and catcher Pedro Pages.

  • The Cardinals are set to open a three-game series at the Miami Marlins on Monday night.
  • Last August, Cardinals starter Michael McGreevy faced the Marlins, emerging with a win after tossing six innings of two-run ball.

The players

Jordan Walker

A 23-year-old slugger who is off to a great start for the Cardinals, hitting eight home runs with 16 RBIs and a 1.013 OPS in 21 games this season.

Masyn Winn

The Cardinals' Gold Glove-winning shortstop who anchors their strong defensive unit.

Pedro Pages

The Cardinals' standout defensive catcher.

Michael McGreevy

The Cardinals' right-handed starting pitcher who will take the mound in the series opener against the Marlins.

Max Meyer

The Marlins' right-handed starting pitcher, who is looking to build on his first MLB season after returning from Tommy John surgery.

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What they’re saying

“From one to nine, nobody is an easy out. Everybody is putting together great at-bats, and we're putting pressure on (opponents).”

— Ivan Herrera, Cardinals catcher/designated hitter

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' deep, balanced lineup has them confident they can continue their hot streak and build an early lead in the NL Central as they face the struggling Marlins, who are dealing with injuries and roster turnover.