The Cardinals won the National League Central division last year for the first time since 2019 and have a chance to tie the franchise record with a fifth-straight playoff berth this season. A strong offense that already contained NL MVP Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenado, and Tyler O’Neill got even better this offseason with the acquisition of former Cubs catcher Willson Contreras, who replaces legendary Yadier Molina behind the plate. Lars Nootbaar and Jordan Walker are expected to take steps forward this year to replace the late-season production that Albert Pujols produced during his final season a year ago. The pitching rotation from last year—Adam Wainwright, Miles Mikolas, Jordan Montgomery, Jack Flaherty, and Steven Matz—all return, and hopes are high for relievers Ryan Helsley, Giovanny Gallegos, and Jordan Hicks.
Cardinals fans are known as some of the most... MORE