The St Louis Cardinals always seem to be a contender for the World Series. The team regularly loads up on talent and has plenty of stars in the minor league system to keep things going.
But the 2021 season might not be as kind to the Cardinals as their fans wish. The Cardinals are hoping they can contend in 2021, but it will not be easy. Although the Cardinals can at least feel comfortable knowing they likely won’t keep playing seven-and-seven doubleheaders this season.
Offense Points
The Cardinals saw some of the team’s best offensive players depart this offseason. Kolten Wong and Brad Miller left, and there’s a chance Yadier Molina might retire after having been the Cards’ backstop for many years. The team will go into the minor leagues to find some new blood, including Andrew Knizner as their new catcher and Dylan Carson in the outfield.
The team has a few veterans returning, including Dexter Fowler, Paul Goldschmidt, and Matt Carpenter. Edmundo Sosa will also play a role in the infield, as he will make his full-season debut years after being signed as an amateur out of Panama.
The team could also see top-rated prospect Nolan Gorman arrive at third base later this season, although amateur free agent Elehuris Montero might compete for the position with him very soon.
Pitching Plans
Miles Mikolas will return to the Cardinals rotation after sitting out last season. Mikolas has been a reliable starter since he came to the team from Japan.
— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) December 22, 2020
Kwang Hyun Kim showed great potential in his first year with the Cardinals. The former KBO star had a 1.62 ERA in his seven starts last season, although he hasn’t been much of a strikeout force as he was in South Korea.
The bullpen will feature Alex Reyes, Andrew Miller, and Giovanny Gallegos competing for the closer spot. Daniel Ponce de Leon has also moved on to being a long reliever, although he could still be an emergency starter as needed.
The team will be without Dakota Hudson on the rotation, as he underwent Tommy John surgery last this past season. Adam Wainwright is also expected to not return to the Cardinals this season. But Mikolas’ return to the starting rotation will give the Cards a bit of help this year.
Where Will the Cardinals Finish in 2021?
We predict the St Louis Cardinals will finish in third place in the NL Central this year. The Cardinals will spend the coming season reloading and getting their minor leaguers up to the big show.
The team’s departures and the inability to find new free agents give the impression the Cardinals are willing to let the Cincinnati Reds take over the division this season.
Will the Cardinals Make the Playoffs?
We do not predict that the St Louis Cardinals will make the playoffs in 2021. The Cardinals will need to look at where the roster is going and see how well the current players can compete in the future.
The team will need development from some of its youngest players if it is going to contend soon. The team will still have a chance in the future, especially with the Chicago Cubs likely heading on the way down after this coming season.
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Image by: Ellie Lovellette
