From St. Louis Cardinals On SI · · 1m 40s
Nathan Church emerging as Cardinals' center field solution
The young outfielder's hot bat and elite defense could be the X-factor St. Louis needs for their rebuild.
In brief
The young outfielder's hot bat and elite defense could be the X-factor St. Louis needs for their rebuild. Nathan Church has replaced Victor Scott II in center field and is hitting .310 over his last 30 games with elite defense, potentially solving a key position for the rebuilding Cardinals. Originally reported by St…
Cardinals season nearly over
St. Louis sits at 75-76 with 11 games left, out of playoff contention. But the farm system has improved under Chaim Bloom and the future looks promising.
Church replaces Scott in center
Nathan Church has taken over center field from Victor Scott II. He's getting on base, playing elite defense, and hitting for power.
Hot streak at the plate
Church entered Monday hitting .310/.787/.362 over his last 30 games. The young outfielder is making a strong case to be the long-term answer.
Gibson sees an X-factor
Former Cardinal Kyle Gibson believes Church could be a game-changer. Strong center field production lengthens the lineup and covers for struggling hitters.
“If you can get this type of production out of center field, it lengthens your lineup, and now you're looking at a team that really can do some damage”
Solid all-around numbers
Church is hitting .252/.297/.373 with 10 home runs, 50 RBI and 10 stolen bases this season. He's a dual threat with his elite defense.
Consistency over power
Church may not be a slugger, but his consistent hitting strengthens the bottom of the lineup. He's exactly what the Cardinals needed from center field.
Left-handed bat finally panning out
The Cardinals haven't had many left-handed bats succeed recently. If Church continues developing, the lineup will look completely different in a few years.
Clear upgrade over Scott
Church has been a significant offensive step up from Victor Scott II. His 2027 development could make him a difference maker for the rebuilding team.
At a glance
Nathan Church has replaced Victor Scott II in center field and is hitting .310 over his last 30 games with elite defense, potentially solving a key position for the rebuilding Cardinals.
