PLAYING TIME: How do Cards fit returning Berkman into lineup?

NATIONAL LEAGUE

With Berkman's return, how do all the bats fit?

With Lance Berkman (1B/OF, STL) set to return to action on STL's current road trip, possibly as soon as Saturday, the corner positions are crowded with worthy bats. The PT shakeout here could be determined by manager Mike Matheny's weighing of offense vs. defense, and his willingness to deploy various players at positions where potential injury risk is heightened. 

Allen Craig (1B/OF, STL) has played regularly in Berkman's absence, becoming the primary 1B when all other regulars have been healthy. Craig's production has been substantial, with his .993 OPS exceeding even Berkman's 2011 bounceback .988 OPS,  which ranks as the third-highest OPS of the veteran's...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Today

Zach Eflin back in BAL; possible closers Fairbanks and Yates find new teams; Cincy adds outfielders and more.
Dec 31 2025 9:02am
Boston swings a deal for a right-handed lineup stalwart; McNeil, O'Hearn, Refsnyder on the move, and more.
Dec 24 2025 9:30am
Shane Baz slots into the Baltimore rotation; the Rays, Pirates and Astros swing a three-way deal, a couple big signings in San Diego, and more.
Dec 22 2025 9:06am
Ha-Seong Kim's bet on himself pays off and he takes over SS for the Braves. Plus new homes for Adolis García, Adrian Houser, Josh Bell and more.
Dec 17 2025 8:44am
Kenley Jansen signs with the Tigers, as more closer dominoes fall in the free agent market. Plus updates on Texas catchers, Polanco and May free agent deals, and more.
Dec 15 2025 8:25am

Tools