The St. Louis Cardinals are proving the doubters wrong in 2026, and they show no signs of slowing down.

After many preseason predictions pegged them as a bottom-tier team in the National League Central, the Cardinals have emerged as one of the season's early surprises. Currently sitting in second place with a 21-14 record—just 2.5 games behind the Chicago Cubs—this team is thriving in what has become baseball's most competitive division.

ESPN's David Schoenfield recently awarded the Cardinals an "A-" grade for their opening month, and the team has carried that momentum into May. A big reason for their success? The breakout performances of right-fielder Jordan Walker and second baseman JJ Weatherholt. If this duo continues to produce, the Cardinals could be a serious postseason threat.

However, it's not all smooth sailing. The biggest concern lies on the mound. According to Baseball Savant, the Cardinals' pitching staff ranks in the bottom 3% of MLB with a hard-hit rate of 43.8%. Ace Michael McGreevy has been solid, but he hasn't received much support from the rest of the rotation. Dustin May carries a 5.15 ERA, while the trio of Matthew Liberatore, Kyle Leahy, and Andre Pallante have combined for a negative WAR.

If the Cardinals maintain their hot start, expect them to target pitching upgrades as the summer trade deadline approaches. One intriguing possibility? Freddy Peralta of the New York Mets, who could be a perfect fit if the Mets decide to sell.

May has already been kind to St. Louis, as they've won three of their last four games—including two against the back-to-back World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers. With the division race heating up, the Cardinals are proving they're more than just a feel-good story. They're a team to watch.