JJ Wetherholt hit two home runs, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to a 12-10 victory over the Kansas City Royals on June 21, 2026.
What happened
The St. Louis Cardinals ended their losing streak with a strong offensive showing. They scored five runs in the first inning and four in the second. Wetherholt opened the scoring with a leadoff home run and hit another two-run home run later in the game. Manager Oliver Marmol praised Wetherholt’s performance, saying, “Two homers today, and the at-bats he is taking are super professional.” Despite the Cardinals leading 9-7 later in the game, the Royals made a late rally, but could not tie the game.
Why it matters
This win was crucial for the Cardinals, restoring confidence after a tough stretch. Wetherholt’s notable performance and Marmol’s effective pitching strategy highlighted the team’s resilience, essential for their aspirations this season.
Background
The Cardinals faced a challenging road trip in May, resulting in a three-game losing streak. This matchup against the Royals provided an opportunity to reset and regain focus before returning home for a series of games.
What's next
The Cardinals will embark on a seven-game homestand starting June 24, 2026, as they aim to build on momentum from this victory.
Frequently asked questions
What were the highlights of the game?
JJ Wetherholt hit two home runs, contributing to a 12-10 win for the Cardinals over the Royals.
When is the Cardinals' next game?
The Cardinals will play their next game at home on June 24, 2026.
Related coverage on CR Today
Sources
- MLB.com — JJ Wetherholt leads Cardinals to victory (accessed 2026-06-22)

