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...

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