The St. Louis Cardinals are back in action today, kicking off spring training with a matchup against the Washington Nationals. After an offseason that saw the departure of some high-profile veterans, including their sole 2025 All-Star, the Cardinals are ready to showcase a fresh lineup under the guidance of manager Oli Marmol.
Today’s lineup gives us a glimpse into Marmol’s vision for the infield in 2026. The Cardinals are fielding a promising combination with Alec Burleson, the 2025 Silver Slugger, at first base. Top prospect JJ Wetherholt takes second, while Gold Glover Masyn Winn anchors shortstop, and Nolan Gorman rounds out third base.
Here’s how the Cardinals are lining up:
SS Masyn Winn
1B Alec Burleson
3B Nolan Gorman
C Pedro Pages
2B JJ Wetherholt
LF Jose Fermin
CF Nathan Church
RF Joshua Baez
DH Blaze Jordan
The offseason buzz centered around how the Cardinals would configure their infield after trading away key players like Willson Contreras, Nolan Arenado, and Brendan Donovan. With Burleson taking first base, and Wetherholt solidifying his spot at second, it appears the Cardinals are setting their foundation for the future. Marmol has hinted at Wetherholt possibly leading off, but today, it’s Winn getting that nod, possibly to maximize his at-bats early in the game.
According to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, expect Marmol to mix up his starting infield and outfield during the first week of games. This means we might see players like Jordan Walker and Victor Scott II soon, but today’s lineup suggests Marmol’s confidence in this group for Opening Day.
The outfield battle is heating up, with Jose Fermin vying for a roster spot against competitors like Thomas Saggese. Ramon Urias, a recent acquisition, is also in the mix as a potential right-handed bat off the bench. Nathan Church is eager to prove his worth, aiming for a place on the roster.
Joshua Baez, who turned heads as a breakout prospect in 2025, might not make the Opening Day roster, but he’s aiming to impress and earn a call-up later this season. Blaze Jordan, acquired in the Steven Matz trade, is another exciting talent looking to make his MLB debut.
As the Cardinals take the field today, fans are treated to an early look at a team blending emerging talent with strategic positioning, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead.
