2008 was a bit of a disappointment for the Cardinals as they were never really in contention the entire year. Chris Carpenter did not return to previous form and only pitched 15 innings last year. Adam Wainwright, Yadier Molina, and Chris Perez all established themselves as quality major-leaguers.
Projected Lineup:
C - Yadier Molina
1B - Albert Pujols
2B - Skip Schumaker
SS - Khalil Greene
3B - Troy Glaus
LF - Chris Duncan
CF - Rick Ankiel
RF - Ryan Ludwick
Projected Rotation:
#1 - Adam Wainwright
#2 - CHris Carpenter
#3 - Kyle Loshe
#4 - Todd Wellemeyer
#5 - Joel Pineiro
Closer - Jason Motte
Position Battles:
2B - There are questions about Schumaker's defense after converting from the outfield over the winter. If he can't handle it, Tyler Greene should get the first crack at a starting role.
3B - Troy Glaus is expected to miss the first 6-8 weeks of the season, but he should have his job when he returns. David Freese and Joe Mather are the frontrunners to fill in while Glaus is rehabbing. If neither of them can handle it, 2008 draft pick Brett Wallace could even get a chance.
Closer - Tony LaRussa has said that he will probably start the season with a closer by committee system which would include Jason Motte, Chris Perez, and Ryan Franklin. Either Perez or Motte could wrestle the job away by mid-season.
2009 Outlook: St. Louis' offense should have no problem scoring runs thanks to Albert Pujols, Ryan Ludwick and Troy Glaus. Pujols' elbow still has some question marks surrounding it, but that shouldn't stop him from putting up MVP-like numbers yet again. If Khalil Green can find his 2007 power and make more contact, they should especially tough.
The Cardinals pitching staff is a bit more of a question mark, IF Wainwright and Carpenter can stay healthy for a full year, IF Loshe and Wellemeyer can prove 2008 was not a fluke, IF their closer situation gets worked out then might a a chance to make a playoff run.
Projected Finish: 2nd Place, NL Central.
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