Cardinals Manager Marmol Defends Intentional Walk Decision Against Cubs' Busch

What's Happening?

In a recent game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol made a controversial decision to intentionally walk Cubs player Michael Busch, who was just a single shy of hitting for the cycle. Busch has been a formidable opponent for the Cardinals throughout the 2025 season, boasting a slash line of .467/.510/1.222 with nine home runs, five doubles, and 17 RBIs against them. This decision came during the bottom of the eighth inning, with the Cubs leading 7-3. The move was part of a strategy to manage the game, despite the potential for Busch to achieve a rare personal milestone. The game added another chapter to the historic rivalry between the two teams, with Busch having previously recorded at least 13 total bases in a single game twice in the same season against the Cardinals.

Why It's Important?

The decision by Marmol highlights the strategic complexities and pressures faced by managers in Major League Baseball, especially in games with significant rivalries. Intentional walks are often used to prevent a strong hitter from further impacting the game, but they can also draw criticism when they deny players personal achievements. This incident underscores the ongoing competitive tension between the Cardinals and the Cubs, two teams with a long-standing rivalry. For the Cardinals, managing Busch's impact was crucial, given his exceptional performance against them this season. The decision reflects the broader strategic considerations in baseball, where team success often takes precedence over individual accolades.

What's Next?

As the season progresses, the Cardinals will need to continue strategizing against key opponents like Busch to improve their standings. The rivalry with the Cubs is likely to intensify, with both teams aiming for postseason success. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Marmol and his team handle similar situations in future games. The decision to walk Busch may also influence how other teams approach games against the Cubs, particularly in managing players who are performing exceptionally well.