The St. Louis Cardinals standings are always a hot topic of discussion among baseball enthusiasts, particularly for those passionate about one of the most iconic teams in Major League Baseball (MLB). As of the conclusion of the 2023 regular season, the Cardinals finished second in the NL Central division, boasting a respectable record of 83-79. This performance sparked much discussion about the team’s strengths and weaknesses and what it means for their future.
How Did the Cardinals Perform in 2023?
The St. Louis Cardinals standings in 2023 reflected a season of both promise and challenges. Ending with an above-. 500 record of 83 wins and 79 losses, the team managed to secure second place in a competitive division. However, finishing behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central standings left fans questioning what could have been done differently to clinch the top spot.
The season was filled with moments of brilliance, including standout performances from key players such as Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt, and Willson Contreras. Their offensive contributions were crucial to the team’s success, often lifting the Cardinals to victory in critical games. However, inconsistency in pitching and struggles in road games proved to be significant hurdles that ultimately impacted the St. Louis Cardinals standings.

Key Highlights of the 2023 Season
- Offensive Power:
- The Cardinals showcased a strong lineup throughout the season, ranking highly in several offensive categories within the National League. Arenado and Goldschmidt led the charge with consistent hitting and clutch performances, solidifying their status as two of the league’s best players.
- Pitching Struggles:
- While the offense thrived, pitching was a point of concern. The starting rotation dealt with injuries and inconsistency, which placed additional pressure on the bullpen. These issues were evident in close games that could have changed the course of the St. Louis Cardinals standings had the pitching staff performed at a higher level.
- Division Rivalries:
- The NL Central was a competitive division in 2023, with the Milwaukee Brewers taking the top spot. The Cardinals fought hard in divisional matchups but fell short in key series that could have narrowed the gap in the standings.
- Home Field Advantage:
- Busch Stadium remained a fortress for the Cardinals, with the team performing exceptionally well at home. However, their struggles on the road created a disparity that became a focal point in analyzing the St. Louis Cardinals standings.
What Can Be Improved for Next Season?
To improve their position in the St. Louis Cardinals standings next year, the team will need to address several areas:
- Strengthening the Pitching Staff:
- Acquiring reliable arms for the starting rotation and the bullpen should be a top priority. A more consistent pitching performance will ensure the team can compete with top-tier opponents.
- Maintaining Offensive Momentum:
- While the offense was a bright spot, continued development of younger players and strategic acquisitions in free agency could make the lineup even more formidable.
- Better Road Performance:
- Improving their record in away games will be critical. The Cardinals’ road struggles in 2023 played a significant role in their inability to overtake the Brewers in the standings.
The Importance of the St. Louis Cardinals Standings
The St. Louis Cardinals standings reflect the team’s performance and are pivotal in their postseason aspirations. As a franchise with a rich history of success, including 11 World Series titles, the Cardinals are held to a high standard by their loyal fanbase. Finishing in second place in the NL Central shows that while the team is competitive, there is room for improvement.

Looking Ahead
The 2023 season provided valuable lessons for the Cardinals as they prepare for the future. With a strong foundation of talented players and a passionate fanbase, the team has the potential to climb higher in the St. Louis Cardinals standings next season. Addressing their weaknesses and building on their strengths will be essential for achieving their ultimate goal: bringing another championship to St. Louis.
In conclusion, the St. Louis Cardinals standings are a testament to the team’s resilience and determination. While second place is a commendable finish, it also motivates the team to strive for even greater success in the years to come. Fans can look forward to an exciting offseason as the Cardinals work to strengthen their roster and prepare for another thrilling season in 2024.