Cardinal Baseball: Wednesday Afternoon Report

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Game Summary & Key Plays

The Cardinals edged out a nail-biting 5-4 victory against the Milwaukee Brewers this Wednesday afternoon. While the game was a back-and-forth affair, several key plays determined the final outcome.

• The Cardinals rallied in the 7th inning: Trailing 4-2 going into the bottom of the seventh, the Cardinals exploded for three runs, fueled by a crucial two-RBI double by Paul Goldschmidt. This offensive surge completely shifted the momentum of the game.
• Nolan Arenado's clutch hit: With runners on second and third and one out, Arenado delivered a timely single to drive in the go-ahead run, demonstrating his consistent ability to perform under pressure. This RBI proved to be the game-winner.
• Exceptional defensive play by Lars Nootbaar: In the top of the ninth, Nootbaar made a spectacular diving catch in right field to rob the Brewers of a potential extra-base hit, preserving the one-run lead. This defensive gem exemplified the Cardinals' commitment to strong fielding.
• Brewers' Errors: Two crucial errors by the Brewers' infield in the 7th inning directly contributed to the Cardinals' three-run rally. These miscues highlight how even the smallest mistakes can significantly impact the outcome of a closely contested game.

The Cardinals' offense ultimately produced 8 hits, with a team batting average of .250. Their pitching staff managed to limit the Brewers to just 7 hits, resulting in a relatively low earned run average (ERA) for the game, further solidifying the victory. The Brewers' starting pitcher had an ERA of 4.50, while the Cardinals' starter's ERA was a much more impressive 2.75.

Player Performances: Stars and Struggles

Several Cardinals players delivered standout performances, while others struggled to find their rhythm.

• Paul Goldschmidt's MVP performance: Goldschmidt was undoubtedly the star of the game, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs and a run scored. His crucial double in the 7th inning completely turned the tide of the game, solidifying his status as a key hitter for the Cardinals.
• Nolan Arenado's clutch hitting: Arenado’s game-winning single underscores his consistent ability to deliver under pressure. His performance showcases his value as a key hitter in crucial situations.
• Adam Wainwright's strong start: Wainwright, the starting pitcher, pitched 6 solid innings, showcasing his experience and control. Although he gave up some runs, his performance set the stage for the bullpen's successful efforts in the later innings.
• Struggles in the outfield: While Nootbaar's defensive play was spectacular, other outfielders struggled with consistency in catching fly balls, leading to opportunities for the Brewers. This area needs to improve for future games.

Managerial Decisions & Strategic Moves

Manager Oli Marmol made some key strategic moves that ultimately contributed to the Cardinals’ victory.

• Strategic pitching changes: Marmol’s decision to bring in Giovanny Gallegos in the 8th inning proved to be a masterstroke. Gallegos managed to shut down the Brewers' batting lineup, preserving the Cardinals’ lead.
• Offensive adjustments: While the Cardinals' batting order remained largely consistent, Marmol’s strategic pinch-hitting decisions in the crucial 7th inning contributed to the team’s offensive outburst.

These strategic moves showcased Marmol's ability to adapt his approach based on the game situation, ultimately influencing the outcome positively. His bullpen management, in particular, was instrumental in securing the win.

Impact on Cardinal's Season

This victory is crucial for the Cardinals, keeping them firmly in the playoff race and bolstering their standing in the division. The win has strengthened their chances of securing a wild card spot and potentially improving their division standing. This game underscores the importance of consistent performance as they navigate the remaining games of the season. Every win from here on is vital in their push for the postseason.

Conclusion

The Cardinals' 5-4 victory over the Brewers was a closely contested game decided by timely hitting, crucial defensive plays, and effective managerial decisions. Paul Goldschmidt's stellar performance, coupled with Nolan Arenado's clutch hit and Giovanny Gallegos’ strong relief pitching, proved decisive. This win significantly impacts the Cardinals' playoff push, maintaining their position in the wild card contention and division standings.

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