The St. Louis Cardinals have caught a much-needed break at a critical point in the season, as one of their most promising young players has returned to action after a sudden health scare. With the team in the middle of a tight National League Wild Card race, the return of outfielder Jordan Walker from appendicitis has come at just the right time — and his impact is already being felt.
Just days ago, it looked like another tough blow for the 23-year-old, who had only recently come back from wrist inflammation suffered in late May. The appendicitis diagnosis initially raised concerns about potential surgery and another lengthy recovery. However, Walker avoided surgery and responded well to antibiotic treatment, allowing for a faster-than-expected return.
According to reports from Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Walker was discharged from the hospital and back home by midweek. His quick recovery allowed him to rejoin the Cardinals lineup, where he’s already showing signs of shaking off the early-season rust.
A former first-round pick (No. 21 overall in 2020) and once considered a top MLB prospect, Walker has had a turbulent 2025 season so far. In 55 games prior to the appendicitis, he posted a .210 batting average with 3 home runs, 23 RBIs, and a .562 OPS. While those numbers fall short of expectations, they don’t tell the full story of a young talent battling injuries and inconsistent playing time.
Now healthy and reintegrated into the team, Walker looks determined to rewrite his narrative. In his first few games back, he has delivered solid at-bats, made key defensive plays, and brought a noticeable energy to the clubhouse. The Cardinals are hoping that his resurgence could be a catalyst for their postseason push.
Currently sitting at 44–38, St. Louis is jockeying for position in the NL Wild Card standings. With a crucial series against the Cleveland Guardians (40–39) looming, the timing of Walker’s return — and the lift he’s providing — could prove pivotal.
While injuries have tested both the player and the team this season, Jordan Walker’s strong return from appendicitis is being seen as a turning point, both for his individual growth and the Cardinals’ hopes in the second half.
