St. Louis Cardinals: Second Base
The St. Louis Cardinals were expected to be in contention again this year, especially since they always seem to find a way to be one of the top teams in the National League each season. However, at 20-18, eight games behind the Chicago Cubs, they are in danger of being left behind.
While there are a few disappointments on the Cardinals thus far, perhaps the biggest one is second baseman Kolten Wong. He has produced a .229/.313/.313 batting line, and has also struggled defensively, having cost the Cardinals three runs thus far. It may be fair to wonder how long St. Louis can keep inserting him in the lineup.
Unfortunately, the Cardinals do not have many options right now. Jedd Gyorko is the backup infielder, and while he has hit four home runs, is only producing a slightly better .213/.276/.400 batting line. Do the Cardinals want to trade Wong’s ability to get on base for Gyorko’s pop?
This may not be a question for long however. Jhonny Peralta is expected to be back by the beginning of June, which would cause a bit of a logjam in the middle infield. Aledmys Diaz could play second base, and Matt Carpenter could theoretically slide over from third when Peralta returns, letting the former shortstop man the hot corner.
Of all the issues facing those disappointing contenders thus far, this may be the easiest fix. All the Cardinals need to do is to tread water until Peralta comes back, and their offense may well get the lift it needs.
Next: National League West