Lineup and Roster becomes clearer for Cards

Cardinal dugout

A couple weeks ago, my blog listed some questions I felt the St. Louis Cardinals needed to answer before the season began. The season start is still a couple weeks away but, it appears those questions are coming close to being answered so, let me give you my take on the answers.

Based on what I’ve read and the performances of the players, I really think Matt Carpenter will be the everyday second baseman. And I think Daniel Descalso will be the starting shortstop. I just don’t think Mike Matheny would be comfortable having two young and inexperienced players manning the middle infield. Another scenario would be Pete Kozma starting at shortstop and Descalso starting at second. In either scenario, I think the “odd man” out will still see considerable playing time. So the bottom line is this; I think Kozma and Carpenter both make the team. All three players are really looking good offensively and I hope that continues into the season.

The other question was regarding the fourth outfielder. Since it’s already been determined that Oscar Tavares will start the season in Memphis, the opens the door for Shane Robinson. Robinson has been fantastic this spring and has proven he’s ready to start the season with the major league club. And I think he will also see considerable playing time; giving Carlos Beltran and Matt Holliday breaks when needed. And the fact that he can play all outfield positions is a plus.

The fifth spot in the rotation I think goes to Joe Kelly. I think he’s been a little better than Shelby Miller this spring and he also has the edge in experience. I think Miller will make the team but, will be a setup reliever, along with Mitchell Boggs. For a change, the Cardinals are rich with pitching and also have the flexibility of some of the pitchers starting or relieving. Such is the case with Kelly, Miller, Trevor Rosenthal and Boggs.

I hope you’re getting as excited as I am for the start of the season. Thanks for reading.