Nolan Gorman -- Performance Analysis

The St. Louis Cardinals entered the 2026 season in evaluation mode after trading away several veterans to reduce payroll and determine which young players to build around long-term. At 25 years old, third baseman Nolan Gorman is a focal point of this evaluation. While he demonstrated significant power potential with 27 home runs in 2023, he has struggled with consistency since, hitting .205 with 14 homers in 111 games in 2025.

Through 33 games in 2026, Gorman is batting .214 with 5 homers and 21 RBIs, showing marginal improvement over his 2025 performance but still well below expectations. However, his defensive metrics have been notably strong, ranking in the 94th percentile in outs above average. The Cardinals' primary concern is Gorman's inability to consistently reach base; his .278 on-base percentage is inadequate for a power hitter. Previously, his inconsistent playing time last season provided an explanation for offensive struggles. With a guaranteed consistent role in 2026, Gorman must prove he can combine his power potential with improved plate discipline and consistency to establish himself as a core long-term piece for the organization.

The St. Louis Cardinals won 9-4 against the Houston Astros on Friday following a day off Thursday. Starting pitcher Kyle Leahy delivered his best performance of the season, allowing three earned runs over five innings with six strikeouts. However, he struggled with the long ball, giving up five hits with three being home runs. The bullpen protected the lead with four innings of one-run baseball, with JoJo Romero and George Soriano each recording scoreless innings.

The standout moment came when Nolan Gorman crushed a three-run homer—his third of the season—that proved decisive in the victory. Despite finishing 1-for-5 with three strikeouts, Gorman's home run provided momentum for the team. This could represent a turning point for the Cardinals slugger, who has struggled offensively this season despite receiving consistent lineup opportunities with Nolan Arenado no longer on the roster.

Gorman's 2026 season carries significant importance for his career trajectory. After hitting 27 homers and driving in 76 runs in 2023, he has been inconsistent since, never reaching that production level again. Currently slashing .207/.284/.362 through 18 games, Gorman has shown improvement defensively but needs offensive contributions to establish himself as a core member of the team moving forward. His Friday homer may signal the beginning of the offensive surge the Cardinals organization needs from him.