Former Cardinals All-Star Not Surprised by Team’s Current Success

“Being there last year, I knew they had good players — and good young players,” Carpenter said. “They had guys they wanted to see take the next step, and if that happened, they had a chance to play well. That’s what’s happening.”

One of those young, breakout players he hints at could be Victor Scott II.

After appearing in 53 games last season and spending much of the year in the minors, Scott has become a key contributor in 2025. In 44 games, he’s slashing .271/.344/.375, ranks sixth in MLB with 13 stolen bases and is tied for fifth in outs above average with six.

Carpenter’s comments reflect the culture the Cardinals are building with their new “Yungry” identity — a phrase Scott II first said by mistake, but soon embraced to capture the team’s youth and hunger this season.

“It’s been fun to follow,” Carpenter added. “That NL Central is up for grabs, so hopefully they can pull it off.”

The Cardinals have won 13 of their last 15 games with both losses coming by one run. They now sit just one game behind the division-leading Cubs.

The hot streak has been fueled by a rejuvenated pitching staff and key contributions from young hitters like Masyn Winn, Iván Herrera, and, of course, Scott II.

Carpenter, 39, announced his retirement last week. He spent 12 of his 14 MLB seasons with St. Louis, earning three All-Star nods and a Silver Slugger. 

He finished his Cardinals career with 1,388 games, 1,185 hits and 159 home runs, destined for a red jacket in the future.