JJ Wetherholt hit two home runs, leading the Cardinals to a 12-10 victory over the Royals, according to MLB.com. The game took place on June 21, 2026, at Kauffman Stadium, marking the Cardinals’ first win after a three-game losing streak.[2]
What happened
The St. Louis Cardinals snapped their losing streak with a decisive offensive display. They scored five runs in the first inning and added four more in the second, setting the tone for the game. Wetherholt began the scoring with a leadoff home run and followed up with another two-run shot in the second. “Two homers today, and the at-bats he is taking are super professional,” manager Oliver Marmol said.[1]
Despite the nine runs through the first two innings, the Cardinals faced challenges as the Royals rallied. Kansas City closed the gap to 9-7, before Iván Herrera’s three-run homer in the fifth extended St. Louis’ lead. The game featured a tight finish, with the Royals threatening to tie in the ninth.
Why it matters
This victory allowed the Cardinals to regain confidence after struggling in prior games. With Wetherholt’s performance and strategic pitching changes from Marmol, the Cardinals demonstrated resilience. The game showcased the team’s depth and capability to respond under pressure, essential for their season outlook.[3]
Background
On May 20, 2026, the Cardinals were in a slump, having lost three consecutive games. They faced intense competition during their road trip and needed a win to revive their spirits. The team found itself in Kansas City, where they had time to reset mentally after numerous games against formidable opponents.
What’s next
The Cardinals will return home for a seven-game homestand, beginning June 24, 2026, where they will look to build on this momentum and improve their standing in the National League.
