Nolan Arenado's barehanded magic seals an 8-7 Cardinals win over the Cubs on June 25! Masyn Winn's 4 RBIs help extend the Cards' winning streak to seven.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Sometimes, a single play tells the whole story. With the tying run sprinting to first, Nolan Arenado charged, barehanded a chopper, and fired a perfect strike to seal an 8-7 thriller over the Cubs. It wasn't just the final out; it was a statement. The Cardinals have won seven straight, they're playing with swagger, and they're coming for the top of the division.
That's not just a Gold Glove, that's wizardry. Nolan Arenado just willed that win into existence for the final out.
Last night's win was a roller-coaster, but the ending is what everyone is still talking about. Arenado's defensive masterpiece instantly went viral, a perfect exclamation point on a hard-fought victory. But don't let the glove work overshadow the bats. Young shortstop Masyn Winn was the offensive hero, launching a home run and driving in four crucial runs in front of a buzzing Busch Stadium crowd. It was a complete team effort that showcased the grit and clutch play defining this incredible winning streak.
The celebration was sweet, but the focus immediately shifts to tonight. The Cardinals (43-36) send Erick Fedde (3-6, 3.54 ERA) to the mound to keep the momentum rolling. It's a tough test against Cubs lefty Matthew Boyd (6-3, 2.84 ERA), who has been solid all year. This isn't just another game; it's a chance to gain ground on the division-leading Cubs and prove this hot streak is the new standard. Thankfully, the Birds have been dominant at home, boasting a 25-15 record at Busch.
As exciting as the present is, the future looks just as bright. The organization's farm system is brimming with talent poised to make a splash. Thirteen of the team's top 30 prospects, including pitchers Quinn Mathews and Tink Hence, have ETAs for this season. We could even see 2024 first-rounder JJ Wetherholt in the bigs this summer. This wave of talent, especially on the pitching side with arms like Michael McGreevy and his sparkling 1.96 ERA from a cup of coffee last year, provides incredible depth and a safety net. The Cardinals aren't just built to win now; they're built to last.
Riding a seven-game high powered by clutch hitting and defensive wizardry, the Cardinals are playing their best baseball of the season. Tonight's game is more than just a divisional matchup; it's an opportunity to shrink the Cubs' lead and solidify their place as true contenders. With reinforcements waiting in the wings, the energy in St. Louis is undeniable. Fasten your seatbelts, this ride is just getting started.
