Spring training site
Jupiter, Fla.
2009 record
91-71, won NL Central, lost in Division Series
Manager
Tony La Russa, 15th season
New faces
RHP Brad Penny (free agent, Giants), IF Felipe Lopez (free agent, Brewers), LHP Rich Hill (free agent, Orioles), IF Ruben Gotay (free agent, Diamondbacks)
Biggest offseason acquisition
The Cardinals spent most of their money in retaining Matt Holliday, so that should count for something. Because the above list is not too inspiring. Penny will be in the rotation, but has gone downhill the last couple of years.
Gone but not forgotten
EHP Joel Pineiro (free agent, to Angels), OF Rick Ankiel (free agent, to Royals), 3B Troy Glaus (free agent, to Braves), Mark DeRosa (free agent, to Giants), RHP John Smoltz (free agent, not signed, working in TV), IF Khalil Greene (free agent, to Rangers), RHP Todd Wellemeyer (free agent, to Giants), RHP Brad Thompson (free agent, to Royals), IF Joe Thurston (free agent, to Braves)
Best spring training battle
Third base looks to be won by rookie David Freese, leaving the No. 5 starter spot as the best battle. Left-hander Rich Hill, a former Cubs starter, lefty Jaime Garcia or righty Kyle McClellan are also options for La Russa.
Projected lineup
- 2B Skip Schumaker
- CF Colby Rasmus
- 1B Albert Pujols
- LF Matt Holliday
- RF Ryan Ludwick
- C Yadier Molina
- 3B David Freese
- SS Brendan Ryan
Projected starting rotation
- RHP Chris Carpenter
- RHP Adam Wainwright
- RHP Kyle Lohse
- RHP Brad Penny
- LHP Jaime Garcia
Projected bullpen
- RHP Ryan Franklin (closer)
- RHP Jason Motte
- RHP Kyle McClellan
- LHP Trever Miller
- RHP Blake Hawksworth
- RHP Mitchell Boggs
- LHP Dennys Reyes
Biggest strength
They're great in two spots - at the top of the rotation with two players who came within a few votes of winning the NL Cy Young (Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright), and in the middle of the order with the best hitter in baseball (Albert Pujols) and a guy behind him who isn't too far off (Matt Holliday).
Glaring weakness
David Freese must show he's ready for the big time, being thrust into the lineup on a winning team. He hit .323 in 17 games last season. And if he comes through and the Cardinals stay healthy, they're a clear favorite in the NL Central.
