**MLB News: Will Oliver Marmol Get a Contract Extension with the St. Louis Cardinals?**
As the St. Louis Cardinals look to reset after a disappointing 2023 season, one of the biggest questions surrounding the team is the future of manager Oliver Marmol. Entering his third season as the Cardinals’ skipper, Marmol’s performance is under scrutiny, with the team’s underachievement in 2023 raising doubts about whether he will be given a contract extension.
Marmol, who was hired in 2022 to replace Mike Shildt, had been seen as a promising young managerial candidate. With a background as a player and coach within the organization, his familiarity with the team’s culture and processes seemed like a natural fit. In his first season as manager, Marmol guided the Cardinals to an 93-69 record and a National League Central division title, earning respect around the league. However, 2023 brought a stark contrast: St. Louis finished the season under .500 with a record of 71-91, marking one of the club’s worst seasons in recent memory.
The Cardinals’ fall from grace in 2023 was characterized by a multitude of issues, from inconsistent pitching and shaky defense to underperforming veterans and injuries to key players. The team struggled with depth and failed to make any significant moves at the trade deadline to shore up weaknesses. Despite these challenges, some observers believe Marmol’s management has not been the root cause of the team’s struggles.
One of the more pressing questions surrounding Marmol’s future is the development of the team’s pitching staff. The Cardinals have long been known for their strong pitching, but in 2023, the team had one of the worst rotations in the league. Marmol, along with the coaching staff, has faced criticism for not getting more out of key pitchers like Jack Flaherty, Miles Mikolas, and Adam Wainwright, all of whom struggled at various points throughout the year. However, many believe the pitching woes stem more from the front office’s failure to adequately address the staff’s weaknesses, rather than managerial shortcomings.
The organization has expressed confidence in Marmol, with general manager John Mozeliak stating publicly that the team values his leadership and strategic approach. Yet, with the Cardinals failing to make the postseason for the second consecutive year, the pressure is mounting to show tangible results. The franchise, which has won 11 World Series titles and consistently contends for playoff spots, may not tolerate a prolonged period of mediocrity.
The ultimate decision on Marmol’s future may hinge on several factors, including the team’s performance in 2024 and how well the Cardinals bounce back from their disappointing 2023 campaign. If the Cardinals show progress and return to contention next year, Marmol could very well secure a contract extension. But if the struggles continue, the front office may opt for a change.
In the meantime, Marmol’s job is very much on the line as the Cardinals prepare for an important offseason that could determine the direction of the franchise.
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