The St. Louis Cardinals are off to a strong start in the 2026 season, recently completing a four-game sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Cardinals Dominate Pirates

The Cardinals currently boast an 18-13 record and have demonstrated success against reigning National League Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, who had a 1.97 ERA in 2025. Their 10-5 victory on Thursday secured the sweep and showcased the team’s growing confidence.

Currently third in the NL Central, the Cardinals trail the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs. The addition of Hunter Dobbins on Thursday strengthens their pitching staff.

Scott II's Offensive Struggles

Despite the team’s overall success, outfielder Victor Scott II is facing offensive challenges. Through 30 games, Scott is batting .179 with a .244 on-base percentage and a .231 slugging percentage.

Defensive Value

Scott has one home run and five RBIs, but has also contributed five stolen bases and six walks. However, he excels defensively, ranking above average in outfield metrics.

He boasts a strong arm (74th percentile) and elite sprint speed (99th percentile), with a fielding run value in the 70th percentile.

Looking Ahead

The Cardinals remain optimistic about Scott’s offensive potential, noting he is a streaky hitter. His situation mirrors a recent turnaround by teammate Nathan Church, who improved significantly after April 21st, hitting .270 with four home runs and nine RBIs in nine games.

The team emphasizes patience and development, particularly with young players. They believe Scott’s ability to put the ball in play is a positive sign and anticipate improved offensive production.

The Cardinals’ success highlights their team depth and ability to overcome challenges, positioning them for a strong push for a playoff berth.