DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL Central—Carpenter at 2B in STL

St. Louis Cardinals

Matt Carpenter (1B/3B/OF, STL) headed the list of hitters in BaseballHQ.com's 2013 breakout candidate profile article, and author Joe Hoffer stated, "All Carpenter needs is an opportunity." Last season Carpenter played primarily at 1B, 3B, and in the OF, but he did play five games at 2B. He's getting more work at 2B in spring training.

The projected starter at 2B is Daniel Descalso (2B, STL).  His 137 Spd indicates some SB potential, but he stole only six bases in 374 AB, and with a 67% success rate, he won't see the green light often. In addition, he has very little power, with a 60 PX. Carpenter, by comparision, comes out ahead by the numbers: .367 OB overall and 116 PX.  His .268 xBA suggests some regression...

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 Tomorrow

Will an early-season managerial bloodletting lead to palace intrigue and PT repercussions in PHI? Plus: RP in WAS; OF& SS in ATL; C in MIA; SP at NYM; more.
May 6 2026 9:05am
The A's are in need of a boost at 3B and they have an option at AAA.
May 6 2026 3:05am
Carlos Rodón's return to the Yankees rotation is nearing and Gerrit Cole's could be close behind. How does this affect the Yankees' rotation? Plus, more from around the AL East.
May 5 2026 3:05am
This week, we make the bold case for a Rockies starter—even in Denver—and we take a peek at two overlooked NL West first basemen who deserve more attention.
May 2 2026 3:05am
Pedro Ramírez is demonstrating real power at AAA Iowa, could there be a path to MLB playing time for one of the minor's hottest hitting infielders?
May 1 2026 3:05am

Tools