What happened: Alec Burleson extended his Louis Cardinals continue their mid-June surge. The outfielder's latest hit comes as the club ramps up its campaign to vote Burleson into the 2026 MLB All-Star Game. The Cardinals are currently looking to finalize their series against the San Diego Padres with momentum on their side.
Why it matters: Burleson has emerged as a vital offensive engine for St. Louis, ranking sixth in the league with 52 RBIs this season. His consistency has kept the Cardinals within striking distance of the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central race. The streak underscores his transition from a utility option to a cornerstone of the lineup during a critical stretch of the 2026 campaign.
By the numbers: Burleson is batting .317 with six home runs during his current hitting streak. The Cardinals hold a 40-31 record and sit 4.5 games behind the first-place Brewers in the division standings. Starter Kyle Leahy enters today's game with a 5-3 record and 4.64 ERA.
What to watch: St. Louis concludes its home stand against the Padres this afternoon before hitting the road. All-Star voting remains open as fans continue to back Burleson for a starting spot in Philadelphia.