Projected Batting Order!

[KingFish]

2B Fernando Vina
LF Placido Polanco
3B Albert Pujols
CF Jim Edmonds
1B Tino Martinez
RF J.D. Drew
SS Edgar Renteria
C Mike Matheny

[amag]

I think it will be a bit different. I don't think that LaRussa, a big beleiver in the lefty vs righty advantage thing would be letting Edmonds, Martinez, and Drew hit together... I don't think anyway. My idea of thier order...

Vina
Polanco/Robinson
Edmonds
Pujols
Drew
Martinez
Renteria
Matheny

I think thier possible changes are having Drew hit third if he's up to it, and if Renteria starts the year the way he ended last year, he could take the leadoff spot and Vina would hit second. That of course, would force the left fielder (whoever it may be) to hit seventh.

My opinion

[KingFish]

I know Tony is talking about wanting speed in the eight hole and this would work.

[amag]

And, if Renteria took the leadoff spot than another possible lineup is having Marrero (more worthy of the 7th spot than Matheny) hitting 7th as catcher, and speedy Kerry Robinson could take the 8th hole. He might be the fastet guy on the Cardinals bench.

No wait a sec.... that would mean there are 4 lefties hitting in consecutive order. Jeez... this strategy stuff looks funner on TV