EPISODE · Mar 19, 2025 · 42 MIN
St. Louis Cardinals can't leave Victor Scott II off the Opening Day roster... right?
from Cards Central · host STL Sports Central
Podcast Recap: Cards Hub 365 with Joe Roderick & Brenden Schaeffer In the latest episode of Cards Hub 365, hosts Joe Roderick and Brenden Schaeffer discuss the St. Louis Cardinals’ spring training developments as Opening Day approaches. The main topic of conversation centers around outfielder Victor Scott II, who has played his way into the roster conversation with an impressive spring performance. Key Takeaways: Victor Scott’s Case for the Roster Scott has showcased unexpected power, hitting three home runs in fewer than 50 plate appearances. Despite struggling offensively in 2024, his speed and defensive potential make him an intriguing option. The Cardinals face a numbers game—finding a way to fit him into a crowded lineup of 10 deserving everyday players for 9 spots. The possibility of Scott serving as a high-impact bench player, using his speed as a late-game weapon, was also discussed. Cardinals’ Lineup and Depth Considerations The lineup is taking shape, with several players heating up at the right time, including Lars Nootbaar and Wilson Contreras. The hosts analyze whether Burleson and Scott can be kept out of the lineup daily while still getting the necessary playing time for Nolan Gorman and others. Defensive flexibility could be a key factor in how the team distributes playing time across positions. Pitching Staff Outlook Steven Matz impressed with a six-inning, one-run performance, fueling optimism about his role in the rotation. The hosts predict ERAs for key starters, including Sonny Gray (~3.7), Eric Fedde (~3.4), and Matz (~3.8). Concerns remain about Miles Mikolas (potentially around 4.8 ERA) and whether Michael McGreevy can step up if given an opportunity. The ability of Cardinals’ starters to consistently pitch deeper into games could significantly impact the bullpen and overall team success. Other Key Storylines The possibility of Mason Wynn’s durability being a concern, as there are limited backup shortstop options. Roster decisions involving José Barrero and Pedro Pagés will be closely watched as cuts are finalized. Sonny Gray and McGreevy will be the starters in Friday’s split-squad games, a crucial test before Opening Day. Final Thoughts The Cardinals' win total could land anywhere between 80-90, depending on health and whether pitching holds up. The team’s depth and flexibility make them better prepared for injuries compared to previous years. College basketball picks were also a side discussion, with Brenden revealing a bold High Point over Purdue upset prediction in March Madness. With Opening Day just around the corner, the Cardinals’ final roster decisions will be crucial. Will Victor Scott II make the team? And if he does, how will the Cardinals balance playing time? Stay tuned for more updates from Cards Hub 365! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What this episode covers
Podcast Recap: Cards Hub 365 with Joe Roderick & Brenden Schaeffer In the latest episode of Cards Hub 365, hosts Joe Roderick and Brenden Schaeffer discuss the St. Louis Cardinals’ spring training developments as Opening Day approaches. The main topic of conversation centers around outfielder Victor Scott II, who has played his way into the roster conversation with an impressive spring performance. Key Takeaways: Victor Scott’s Case for the Roster Scott has showcased unexpected power, hitting three home runs in fewer than 50 plate appearances. Despite struggling offensively in 2024, his speed and defensive potential make him an intriguing option. The Cardinals face a numbers game—finding a way to fit him into a crowded lineup of 10 deserving everyday players for 9 spots. The possibility of Scott serving as a high-impact bench player, using his speed as a late-game weapon, was also discussed. Cardinals’ Lineup and Depth Considerations The lineup is taking shape, with several players heating up at the right time, including Lars Nootbaar and Wilson Contreras. The hosts analyze whether Burleson and Scott can be kept out of the lineup daily while still getting the necessary playing time for Nolan Gorman and others. Defensive flexibility could be a key factor in how the team distributes playing time across positions. Pitching Staff Outlook Steven Matz impressed with a six-inning, one-run performance, fueling optimism about his role in the rotation. The hosts predict ERAs for key starters, including Sonny Gray (~3.7), Eric Fedde (~3.4), and Matz (~3.8). Concerns remain about Miles Mikolas (potentially around 4.8 ERA) and whether Michael McGreevy can step up if given an opportunity. The ability of Cardinals’ starters to consistently pitch deeper into games could significantly impact the bullpen and overall team success. Other Key Storylines The possibility of Mason Wynn’s durability being a concern, as there are limited backup shortstop options. Roster decisions involving José Barrero and Pedro Pagés will be closely watched as cuts are finalized. Sonny Gray and McGreevy will be the starters in Friday’s split-squad games, a crucial test before Opening Day. Final Thoughts The Cardinals' win total could land anywhere between 80-90, depending on health and whether pitching holds up. The team’s depth and flexibility make them better prepared for injuries compared to previous years. College basketball picks were also a side discussion, with Brenden revealing a bold High Point over Purdue upset prediction in March Madness. With Opening Day just around the corner, the Cardinals’ final roster decisions will be crucial. Will Victor Scott II make the team? And if he does, how will the Cardinals balance playing time? Stay tuned for more updates from Cards Hub 365! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
NOW PLAYING
St. Louis Cardinals can't leave Victor Scott II off the Opening Day roster... right?
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.