In a struggling season for the St. Louis Cardinals, it’s no secret that the Cardinals have lacked power. Over the weekend, first baseman Willson Contreras hit his 20th home run of the season, making him the first Cardinal to reach this achievement in 2025. Unfortunately for the Cardinals, he may be the only player to reach this total.
If so, this would mark the first time since 2015 that the Cardinals have had only one player hit 20 or more home runs, excluding the COVID shortened 2020 season. Alec Burleson is the next closest to reach 20 homers with 16, but is currently on the injured list due to a right wrist injury.
So far in 2025, the Cardinals rank tied for 25th in the major leagues with 132 home runs. This number trails even the Chicago White Sox and the Colorado Rockies, teams with the worst record in their respective leagues. Last season wasn’t much better for St. Louis either, as the team finished tied for 22nd in home runs.
Although the home run isn’t everything, percentage of runs scored via the long ball continues to increase in Major League Baseball. It is imperative to roster powerful bats in order to score runs in the modern game. Currently, the Cardinals rank 16th in runs per game, and their lack of home run power is a big reason why.
Heading into the 2026 season, Cardinals fans are hopeful to see improvements from players like Nolan Gorman and Jordan Walker while waiting the arrival of top prospect JJ Wetherholt. Although finding outside help via free agency is unlikely, St. Louis could benefit by signing a powerful bat.
