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THE BUILDING BLOCKS:
Barring any big moves, this is the core of the St. Louis Cardinals. Every organization would find room on their roster for these three, and I’m counting on them to lead the ballclub. As the team moves past 2021 and the big contracts expire, the organization will be building around this group.
3- Jordan Hicks
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I included Jordan Hicks in this section because I think his return this season will be incredible. He has all the talent in the world, and from what I’ve seen of him, a great attitude off the field. Hicks will be the player I’m watching the most in 2021- if he is once again a dominant closer, it could be the start of a really impressive run as a Cardinal.
2- Paul Goldschmidt
Yes, Goldschmidt is 33, but he is a true superstar. I don’t think he gets the respect he deserves, and I hope we can contend with him on the roster before his time in St. Louis is up. He seems like the kind of ballplayer that even as he ages, he’ll find ways to produce. Cardinal fans should be thankful they have this guy locked up for the next few seasons.
1- Jack Flaherty
Who else was this going to be? Flaherty is the ace but also the most exciting player on the ballclub. I just hope the St. Louis Cardinals can work out a long-term extension. Yes, 2020 wasn’t a great year for Flaherty, but was it really a great year for anyone? If it was possible, I’d hand the ball to Jack every day of the week. You have to feel good about a team with Flaherty as the centerpiece as the Cardinals look to the future.