1. John Mozeliak, president of baseball operations
His most significant trades in the past decade have come in the winter, and yet the one that catapulted the club to a championship came near the deadline and swapped a young outfielder (Colby Rasmus) for a revitalized pitching staff. After a run of dull deadlines, this save opportunity is Mo’s.
2. Jack Flaherty, RHP
The Cardinals have urged caution with their opening day starter while he continues a throwing program to build arm strength and expedite his return from an oblique strain. An August return could mean eight starts – with several division foes lined up for him to lift the Cardinals over.
3. Tyler O’Neill, OF
He has a higher OPS (.879 to .840) and slugging (.546 to .527) than All-Star Adolis Garcia. He has more home runs (15) in 100 fewer plate appearances than Randy Arozarena (10). O’Neill just needs to stay on the field to bring a speed-power punch the Cardinals have bet big on.
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