Cardinals' Young Roster Promises Intriguing Season

On March 25th, opening day at Bush Stadium kicks off the Cardinals' 20-26 season, much like any other, with peanuts, margarita-ville tunes.

And theme nights already on sale.

But experts are making bold calls on how this young roster shakes out, predicting heavy turnover in the rotation and breakout stars from the farm, system stepping up big.

The starting five features, Matthew Liberator, Michael McGreevy, Destin May, Andre Palante, and Kyle Leehee, but expect flux all year.

Liberator anchors as the top innings eater, joined by newcomers Richard Fitz and Hunter Dobbins fresh from trades with the Red Sox.

Fitz impressed in spring, and Dobbins returns soon from the injured list to lock down spots.

Power could come from unexpected places, too, with prospect Joshua Baez leading homers after the All-Star break.

The 20-year-old outfielder, already on the 40-man roster, crushed it last spring and should patrol the outfield by summer.

At catcher, Leo Bernali merges as the late season starter, passing others on the depth chart amid Ivan Herrera's limited time behind the plate.

Fans and analysts see upside, despite the inexperience, noting fewer weaklings than last year's 78 and 84 finish.

Replacements for past underperformers like Palante and Jordan Walker bring potential, making a sub-500 record more likely than 100 losses.

This squad won't contend, but promises an intriguing ride, full of young talent and surprises that keep things far from dull.

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