Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Nolan Gorman, 26-year-old Cardinals third baseman, has emerged as a pleasant surprise defensively in 2026 after concerns about replacing Nolan Arenado. Gorman is tied for third in NL third basemen in Outs Above Average (OAA +2), outperforming Arenado (OAA 0) and competing with elite defenders like Max Muncy and Manny Machado. He improved his defense through dedicated offseason work, including training in Las Vegas. Offensively, Gorman is running an 89 wRC+ with a 28.8% strikeout rate (down from career high 33.8%). He maintains power potential with quality swing mechanics, though his breakout has been delayed. Gorman is enjoying the young Cardinals team environment and having fun playing baseball.
Strengths
- + Exceptional defensive improvement at third base - tied 3rd in NL OAA
- + Outperforming Nolan Arenado defensively (OAA +2 vs 0)
- + Strikeout rate improving (28.8% down from 33.8% career high)
- + Strong power potential with quality swing mechanics
- + High morale and team chemistry - enjoying baseball more than ever
- + Dedicated offseason training showing tangible results
- + Competitive with elite defenders (Muncy, Machado, Chapman)
Weaknesses
- - Offensive production lagging at 89 wRC+ through mid-May
- - Delayed breakout despite obvious upside
- - Inconsistent offensive output relative to expectations
- - Still striking out at elevated rate (28.8%)
- - Long-term project status suggests development concerns
About
Nolan Gorman is a second baseman for the St Louis Cardinals.
Player Overview
2B
St Louis Cardinals