5 standout performers from St. Louis Cardinals first half

Oli Marmol

When Mike Shildt was fired due to “philosophical difference,” many wondered why Marmol would be hired in his place as the two seemed to be in lockstep. But, Marmol has shown that he is his own man with his own managerial philosophy that takes analytics into consideration with the all important eye test.

While there have been some questionable decisions, he’s playing well with the cards he’s been dealt, so to speak.

One thing is obvious though, the team respects Marmol. They listen to him. As evidenced by the fluctuation in job duties by Tommy Edman, Dylan Carlson and Jordan Hicks, the team is willing to do whatever Marmol asks of them in order to help the team.

That’s what you want in your manager. You want someone you trust and you believe will have your back. The team knows Marmol is there for them. They know he has there back.

It’s also good to see that the coaching staff also seems to love Marmol as their boss. Skip Schumaker, Mike Maddux and the oft-criticized Jeff Albert, all look like they enjoy working with Marmol and know they are being heard.

The next few weeks will be important for Marmol to have a successful first season. It will be fun to see how he leads this team in the second half and how far this team, with this roster and any improvements added, can go into the fall.