Here’s why the Cardinals need to use spring training to set the groundwork for 2024.
As the rhythms of spring training unfold predictably, it’s tempting to let the expectation of normalcy overshadow the reality on the field. The initial week focuses on pitching work, and when hitters join for live batting practice, baseball begins to take shape. By the mandatory report date for all players, the routine seems established. This was the prevailing atmosphere during the 2023 spring training, influenced partly by the anticipated disruptions. The World Baseball Classic took numerous players out of camp, affecting the regular schedules of those attending. Despite the rushed and unusual feel, the St. Louis Cardinals expressed full support for the tournament and pride in the participating players.
Reflecting on the disaster that unfolded in the months following spring training, it’s convenient to attribute responsibility to those changes. However, the Cardinals’ leadership has refrained from doing so, albeit with noticeable pauses that invite interpretation. In less than a week, pitchers and catchers will convene at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Florida, marking the unofficial end of winter and the official commencement of the baseball season. Updates will cover players’ fitness, playing time declarations, and this season, a roster with fewer uncertainties compared to a standard spring.
Despite having a mostly set lineup, with only two or three spots up for grabs pending health, spring training remains significant for the Cardinals. The acquisition of reliable veterans in the offseason, though older, necessitated adjusting preparation. The number of full-effort reps expended in spring could impact the availability during regular games. Last year, Nolan Arenado altered his preparation to reduce stress, but he later admitted it was a mistake as it affected his performance in the first half. Adam Wainwright’s quick ramp-up in spring resulted in shoulder pain, persisting for eight months and affecting his results. The ideal scenario for the Cardinals this spring is a familiar routine – a warm-up period, competition, and a full roster building up steadily for opening day, rather than for an exhibition tournament that brought fleeting memories amid a disappointing season.
