Bold claim: Jordan Walker could steal even more bases in 2026. Cardinal fans, take note, because there’s a lot riding on this prospect’s speed and approach.
Here’s the gist from a recent update: Cardinals manager Oliver Mármol believes Walker has room to run more in 2026. Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch relayed that Walker, a 6-foot-6, 250-pound athlete, surprised everyone with his sprint speed last season, finishing in the 84th percentile.
Walker already set a career high by swiping 10 bases in 13 attempts in 2025. Mármol thinks there could be even more opportunities if the team can “coach him up in a way that he feels comfortable taking more risks.” In practical terms, that means Walker would need to reach base more often to enable more stolen-base chances, since baserunning only matters when you’re actually on the bag.
On the development side, Walker has been actively working on swing adjustments during the offseason at Driveline Baseball, aiming to improve his overall approach and on-base situation. Mármol has noted positive early impressions from spring camp, saying Walker understands what’s at stake and is putting in serious work.
Why this matters: if Walker translates his elite speed into more stolen bases while also finding ways to reach base more frequently, he could become a more dynamic threat on the bases and in overall production for the team.
Thought-provoking takeaway: speed without opportunity is wasted; speed plus better on-base skills and smart risk-taking on the bases could unlock a new level of upside for Walker.
What do you think—will Walker’s basestealing volume rise in 2026, or are there key obstacles that could limit the uptick? Share your take in the comments.
