Tony LaRussa is going to depend heavily on Yadier Molina to keep a makeshift pitching rotation on track this year.

They seem to have some offense. Albert is going to do his thing and aquiring Glaus was great. I like LaRussa's idea of hitting the pitcher in the eight spot. Izturus makes a really good second leadoff hitter in the nine hole. Molina has lost a few pounds and I look for his average to be higher this year. Kennedy is actually hitting the ball too! That's a bonus!

Strange as it seems, even after losing Rolen's gold glove at third base, the defense has looked much improved this Spring. Kennedy and Izturus look like they have been playing together for years in the middle and even Duncan is catching balls that are swirling in the wind!

Obviously, the achilles heel is going to be the pitching. HELP! But, playing in the Central Division, if they can keep their heads above water till Mulder, Carpenter, Clement and Pineiro are healthy, they will be in good shape to make a pennant run.

Win or lose, I love my Cardinals and I will root till the end! What are your predictions?