Comparing the St. Louis Cardinals’ Current Roster to Their Division Foes
The St. Louis Cardinals have long been one of the most successful and storied franchises in Major League Baseball. With a rich history that includes 11 World Series championships, 19 division titles, and a passionate fan base, the Cardinals are constantly positioned as contenders in the National League Central Division. However, as we look ahead to the 2024 season, the landscape of the division has evolved, with several teams undergoing transformations that could impact the Cardinals’ quest for another division title.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how the Cardinals’ current roster compares to their division rivals—the Milwaukee Brewers, the Chicago Cubs, the Cincinnati Reds, and the Pittsburgh Pirates. By examining key positions, pitching staff depth, and overall team strengths and weaknesses, we’ll get a clearer picture of where the Cardinals stand in relation to their competition.
The St. Louis Cardinals: Roster Overview
The St. Louis Cardinals entered the 2024 season with a roster that looks significantly different than in previous years, especially with a renewed emphasis on youth and long-term sustainability. Over the past few seasons, the Cardinals have leaned heavily on veteran presence, but now, with emerging stars and a fresh approach under manager Oli Marmol, the team is positioning itself for future success.
Key Additions and Departures
The offseason saw the departure of several long-time Cardinals, including key veterans like Yadier Molina, who retired after an illustrious career behind the plate. The team also saw the departure of slugger Albert Pujols, who hung up his cleats after a second stint in St. Louis. These departures left holes in the lineup, but the Cardinals were quick to fill them with young talent.
The biggest offseason move for the Cardinals was the acquisition of pitcher Jordan Montgomery, who brings solid experience to a rotation that struggled in 2023. Along with Montgomery, the team also added outfielder Lars Nootbaar, who has shown potential as a dynamic two-way player, and 3B Nolan Gorman, a rising star with immense power.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Catcher: The Cardinals are in a bit of a transition period here. While the departure of Molina leaves a leadership void, the team has high hopes for 2024 with young catcher Andrew Knizner, who will be asked to step into a more prominent role. He will be tasked with maintaining a balance of defense and offense, particularly managing the pitching staff and being a steady presence behind the plate.
First Base: Paul Goldschmidt remains the cornerstone of the Cardinals’ lineup. The reigning National League MVP is still one of the top hitters in the league and a top-tier defensive player. His ability to drive in runs and anchor the heart of the lineup is invaluable, and he’ll once again be the centerpiece of the team’s offensive strategy.
Second Base: Tommy Edman has proven to be an excellent second baseman, providing both excellent defense and an ability to get on base. His speed on the basepaths adds another layer to the Cardinals’ offense, and he’ll continue to be a key piece in the middle of the infield.
Shortstop: The Cardinals have high expectations for 2024 from their shortstop position, with Paul DeJong expected to have a rebound season. DeJong, once a 30-homer hitter, has struggled with consistency, but if he can return to his previous form, he could provide a significant boost to the lineup.
Third Base: Nolan Arenado, one of the top third basemen in the league, continues to be a pillar of stability for the Cardinals. With a consistent bat and elite defense, Arenado brings Gold Glove-caliber play on a nightly basis. His leadership will also be essential as the team transitions toward a more youthful core.
Outfield: The Cardinals’ outfield is where the team’s youth movement is most noticeable. Dylan Carlson, Tyler O’Neill, and Lars Nootbaar are all expected to play major roles, with O’Neill being the most intriguing talent. His power potential combined with solid defense could make him a key contributor if he can stay healthy. Carlson offers excellent contact skills and patience at the plate, while Nootbaar’s ability to get on base and his versatility make him an exciting option in both corner outfield positions.
Designated Hitter: With the implementation of the DH in the National League, the Cardinals now have more flexibility in their lineup. The team is expected to rotate players through this spot, potentially giving players like Nolan Gorman and Tommy Edman a chance to provide more offense in a less physically demanding role.
Pitching Staff: The Cardinals’ pitching staff has been a point of concern in recent years, especially with the loss of ace Jack Flaherty to injury. However, the addition of Jordan Montgomery, along with the continued development of younger arms like Dakota Hudson and Steven Matz, gives the Cardinals hope for a much-improved rotation in 2024. On the back end, closer Ryan Helsley provides one of the most dominant bullpen arms in the league, and setup men like Giovanny Gallegos will help stabilize the late innings.
The Milwaukee Brewers: The Division’s Consistent Threat
The Milwaukee Brewers have been one of the most consistent teams in the NL Central over the past decade, with their pitching staff often serving as the backbone of their success. Heading into 2024, the Brewers will once again rely on their elite pitching staff, led by Cy Young contender Corbin Burnes, and a lineup that remains potent despite lacking major star power.
Key Additions and Departures
The Brewers didn’t make any significant offseason moves, but they did lock up some of their key players, including pitcher Brandon Woodruff, who will join Burnes at the top of the rotation. The team also has an emerging star in outfielder Christian Yelich, who has the ability to provide a spark in the middle of their lineup.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Catcher: The Brewers are solid behind the plate with Victor Caratini, who has been a steady presence. His primary role is as a backup to Omar Narváez, who provides both solid defense and a respectable bat.
Infield: The Brewers’ infield is led by Willie Adames at shortstop and Kolten Wong at second base. Adames provides a steady glove and a powerful bat, while Wong contributes defensively and with his speed. Rowdy Tellez at first base provides a solid power bat in the middle of the lineup.
Outfield: Christian Yelich is the focal point of the Brewers’ outfield and remains one of the most dangerous hitters in the game when healthy. Alongside him, the Brewers have a solid collection of outfielders, including Hunter Renfroe, who offers power, and the steady Andrew McCutchen, who continues to provide leadership and on-base ability.
Pitching Staff: As always, the Brewers’ pitching staff will be their strength. Corbin Burnes and Brandon Woodruff are two of the top pitchers in the league, and the team’s bullpen, led by Devin Williams, remains one of the best in the majors. The Brewers’ pitching depth makes them a difficult team to score against, and it’s likely that their success will once again hinge on the performance of their arms.
The Chicago Cubs: A Team on the Rise
The Chicago Cubs are in a rebuilding phase but appear to be on the verge of returning to contention. With some significant acquisitions over the past few seasons, including players like Dansby Swanson and Cody Bellinger, the Cubs have a core group that can compete, though they still lack the depth to fully challenge for the division title in 2024.
Key Additions and Departures
The Cubs added some serious talent in the offseason, acquiring former MVP Cody Bellinger from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Along with Bellinger, the Cubs brought in shortstop Dansby Swanson, who is expected to provide both leadership and solid defense up the middle.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Catcher: The Cubs are solid at catcher with the defensive-minded Yan Gomes, who provides stability behind the plate and some pop in his bat.
Infield: The addition of Dansby Swanson solidifies the Cubs’ infield. Nico Hoerner at second base is a solid contact hitter and one of the more underrated players in the league. Patrick Wisdom provides power, while former MVP Cody Bellinger looks to bounce back from a down year.
Outfield: The Cubs have a strong outfield that includes the power-hitting Ian Happ and the two-way talent of Bellinger. Seiya Suzuki, who had a solid debut season in 2023, will also be a key contributor in the outfield.
Pitching Staff: The Cubs’ pitching staff remains a work in progress. Marcus Stroman and Justin Steele are the key pieces in the rotation, but depth is an issue. The bullpen is solid, with closer Michael Fulmer anchoring the late innings.
The Cincinnati Reds: A Team in Transition
The Cincinnati Reds are in the midst of a rebuild but have some exciting young talent, particularly in the form of outfielder Hunter Greene and shortstop Elly De La Cruz. While the team remains a few years away from contention, the Reds could surprise some teams in 2024 with the right development from their young stars.
Key Additions and Departures
The Reds didn’t make any major additions but have a strong core of young players who could emerge as stars in the coming seasons.
Position-by-Position Breakdown
Catcher: Tyler Stephenson remains the starting catcher, providing excellent defense and some offensive upside.
Infield: The Reds are building around young stars like Elly De La
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