7. The incredibly shrinking Cardinals No Jim Edmonds. No Scott Rolen. No David Eckstein. No Mark Mulder and Chris Carpenter to open the season. And maybe no Albert Pujols, who eventually could require elbow-ligament transplant surgery.
If Pujols is lost, the season is over. Even if he is OK, the signs aren't good. Cesar Izturis is an offensive downgrade from Eckstein, Troy Glaus is as much of a physical question as Rolen was, and Rick Ankiel, still unproven, is the likely center fielder until top prospect Colby Rasmus is ready. The rotation is decidedly modest. And with so many cornerstones gone, the team must forge a new identity.
Barring a successful comeback by Juan Gonzalez, at least one major addition will be necessary for the Cardinals to compete with the Cubs and Brewers. Otherwise, first-year general manager John Mozeliak will preside over an uncomfortable transition.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/7801788/10-things-to-watch-in-spring-training-
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