Brashna KasiUpdated on: October 12, 2024 6:50 am GMT
As the St. Louis Cardinals prepare to face the Pittsburgh Pirates in a four-game series, most fans may be wondering what’s left at stake. With playoff hopes dashed and a less than 0.1% chance of clinching a postseason spot, the Cardinals now focus on securing a better finish in the standings and avoiding last place. This upcoming series presents an opportunity for the team to solidify their position and possibly reclaim bragging rights in a year that’s been less than stellar.
Current Standings and Implications
The Cardinals currently sit three games ahead of the Pirates in the National League Central. This four-game series is crucial not just for dynamics within the division but also for maintaining a position above the Pirates, who have been eager to climb the standings.
- Cardinals’ Position:
– 3 games ahead of the Pirates
– Must avoid a last-place finish
– Unlikely to surpass Cubs for second place
While a split in the series may not significantly impact the Cardinals’ quest for glory, it could keep the Pirates at bay. The team hasn’t faced the Pirates since early July, a gap that might make this matchup even more intriguing given the adjustments both teams have undergone.
Changes in the Pirates’ Lineup
The Pirates have made some notable changes since last playing the Cardinals. One of their more puzzling decisions has been the use of Isiah Kiner-Falefa in a leading role.
Questionable Lineup Decisions
Kiner-Falefa, traditionally not known for his hitting prowess, finds himself in the leadoff position. Here are some key points regarding the Pirates’ lineup changes:
- Leading Off with Kiner-Falefa:
– Career wRC+ (Weighted Runs Created Plus): 83
– This season’s projection: 86 wRC+
– His placement in the leadoff spot has raised eyebrows, especially with Andrew McCutchen moving to cleanup.
Why the Shift?
This move seems counterintuitive considering McCutchen’s more favorable hitting statistics. The Pirates seem to be banking on Kiner-Falefa more than his previous performance would justify.
- Andrew McCutchen’s Stats:
– Has batted leadoff in 384 of 484 plate appearances.
– Currently has a wRC+ of 112.
Additionally, Kiner-Falefa has been assigned the position of starting shortstop, pushing Oneil Cruz into center field. While this may enhance the team’s defense, it also brings into question Kiner-Falefa’s overall value to the lineup, especially relative to Cruz’s potential.
Defensive Concerns
Oneil Cruz was viewed as a potential long-term solution for the shortstop position but has struggled defensively, accumulating a -13 Outs Above Average (OAA) over 1,700 innings. Kiner-Falefa, while not exceptional defensively, may offer more reliability than Cruz, who has only managed to be -3 this season.
New Acquisitions and Investments
In addition to Kiner-Falefa, the Pirates have made recent trades aimed at bolstering their roster, which could impact their production this series.
- Bryan de la Cruz (from the Marlins):
– Traded for non-prospects, showcasing the Pirates’ strategy to pursue players with breakout potential.
– De la Cruz has a career wRC+ of 91, making him a safer risk compared to the traded prospects.
- Joey Bart:
– Formerly seen as a successor to Buster Posey, Bart has been performing better without pressure, currently boasting a wRC+ of 130 in 250 plate appearances.
Prospects Assemblage
The Pirates have also traded for Billy Cook, a player recently emerging as a prospect. While projections are tepid regarding his long-term viability, his contributions could be vital as the Pirates attempt to fix their roster for the future.
- Cook’s Stats:
– Started the season with a relative breakout percentage.
– Currently struggling with a 67 wRC+ projection and high strikeout ratios.
The Road Ahead for the Cardinals
The Cardinals face a series of decisions regarding their roster and strategies for the coming games. Even without the allure of playoffs, the remainder of the season is an opportunity for players to showcase their talents and build toward the next year.
- Key Aspects to Watch:
– The performance of younger players seeking to make a mark.
– How the altered roster dynamics in the Pirates affect their gameplay.
Fans will want to keep an eye on these developments not only for the outcome of the series but also for insights into how the rest of the season plays out for both teams.
Conclusion
The Cardinals are playing against the Pirates, and this series is a big test for both teams since their seasons haven’t gone as they hoped. While the chance for the playoffs is slipping away, the excitement of the games is still here. For Cardinals fans, the main goal is to end the season on a high note and finish ahead of their rivals. Meanwhile, the Pirates are looking to figure out their best players and how they can improve. Each game in this series is important for showing pride, making smart choices, and thinking about a fresh start for next season.
