The St. Louis Cardinals have started the 2025 season strong, posting their best record through 85 games since 2008. Entering July, they hold the third Wild Card spot in the playoff race and trail the division-leading Cubs by just four games. Their current 47-38 record ranks as the fifth-best start over the past two decades, highlighting a surprising turnaround compared to preseason expectations.
Historically, only a few Cardinals teams have posted better starts at this point in the season, including the 2015 and 2005 squads that each won 100 games and their division titles. Unlike those powerhouse teams, the 2025 Cardinals were initially seen as a middle-of-the-pack group with limited postseason hopes. Many analysts predicted a mediocre season or worse, given offseason moves and the roster’s makeup.
Manager Oliver Marmol has been praised for leading a mix of young players and veterans to exceed expectations. His work has made him a strong candidate for Manager of the Year, especially considering the low expectations placed on the team at the start. The success of this season stands in contrast to past strong starts by Cardinals teams that didn’t ultimately win the World Series, such as the 2013 squad that reached the Fall Classic but lost in six games.
The 2008 team provides a useful comparison, as it also began hot but faded to finish 86-76 and missed the playoffs. Both teams share similar challenges with pitching depth and strikeout rates. For example, Erick Fedde’s strikeout numbers this year are low, similar to the 2008 rotation’s top pitchers. This season’s NL Central is competitive, with multiple teams above .500, echoing the balance seen in 2008.
Currently, the Cardinals are projected to finish around 90 wins, maintaining their spot in the playoff hunt. While their strong start does not guarantee postseason success, the team has generated excitement and hope in St. Louis that they can continue to compete in a tough division.
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