E253: The Cardinals Have a Jordan Walker Problem (w/ Bernie Miklasz)

We break down the candid and eye-opening comments from manager Oli Marmol and hitting coach Brant Brown about young outfielder Jordan Walker's persistent struggles at the plate and his lackluster approach to preparation. During their recent appearance on the Gashouse Gang radio show on KMOX with host Bernie Miklasz, Brown emphasized Walker's need for a "full commitment" to daily routines like studying film on starters and relievers, warning that the slugger is caught in a "game of tennis" between his own ideas and what the coaching staff recommends, and that true improvement requires getting "a little bit more uncomfortable." Marmol echoed these concerns, noting Walker's early MLB success has given way to failures in adjusting to pitchers' strategies, but stressed that better pregame work and pitch recognition could turn things around—while insisting he's "nowhere close to giving up" on the talented 23-year-old. We dissect Walker's dismal 2025 stats, including a .220 batting average and 31.7% strikeout rate, explore what this public critique means for his development and the Cardinals' floundering offense, and debate whether this tough love from the coaches will spark a turnaround or signal deeper issues in the organization's player development pipeline.🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6595733980577792Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2j_m928DkTZsnj0nR_bERQ/joinUse code CARDS on Underdog Fantasy to get up to $1000 in bonus credit! https://play.underdogfantasy.com/p-dealin-the-cardsUse our Lids affiliate link here: https://lids.7q8j.net/QyG60oBuy our merch here: https://dealin-the-cards.creator-spring.com/Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok @DealinTheCards