Cardinals Emerge as MLB's Top Defensive Team

Young St. Louis squad leads league in outs above average through first 18 games

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:43pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Cardinals defensive play, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the players and field.The Cardinals' defensive excellence has been a key factor in their early-season success.St. Louis Today

The 2026 St. Louis Cardinals have surprised many by jumping out to a 10-8 start, sitting just half a game behind the division-leading Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates. A big reason for their early success has been their stellar defense, with the Cardinals leading all of MLB with 11 outs above average as a team through the first 18 games of the season.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' defensive prowess is a promising sign for the young squad, which was doubted by many heading into the season. If St. Louis can continue to play elite defense while also getting production from their talented lineup, they could emerge as a force in the NL Central race.

The details

Rookie second baseman JJ Wetherholt has been a standout on defense, tying Kansas City's Bobby Witt Jr. for the league lead with 5 outs above average. Reigning Gold Glove shortstop Masyn Winn has also contributed 3 outs above average, while third baseman Nolan Gorman has surprised with 2 outs above average despite struggling at the plate so far.

  • The Cardinals have played 18 games so far this season.
  • St. Louis currently sits half a game behind the division-leading Reds and Pirates.

The players

JJ Wetherholt

The Cardinals' rookie second baseman is tied for the MLB lead with 5 outs above average.

Masyn Winn

The reigning National League Gold Glove shortstop has contributed 3 outs above average for the Cardinals.

Nolan Gorman

The Cardinals' third baseman has 2 outs above average despite struggling offensively so far this season.

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The takeaway

The Cardinals' early-season defensive dominance is a promising sign for the young team, which has the talent to remain a contender in the NL Central if they can continue to play elite defense while also getting production from their lineup.