PLAYING TIME: How do Cards fit returning Berkman into lineup?

NATIONAL LEAGUE

With Berkman's return, how do all the bats fit?

With Lance Berkman (1B/OF, STL) set to return to action on STL's current road trip, possibly as soon as Saturday, the corner positions are crowded with worthy bats. The PT shakeout here could be determined by manager Mike Matheny's weighing of offense vs. defense, and his willingness to deploy various players at positions where potential injury risk is heightened. 

Allen Craig (1B/OF, STL) has played regularly in Berkman's absence, becoming the primary 1B when all other regulars have been healthy. Craig's production has been substantial, with his .993 OPS exceeding even Berkman's 2011 bounceback .988 OPS,  which ranks as the third-highest OPS of the veteran's...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Today

Kevin McGonigle might just break camp with the Tigers; infield coming in to focus in LAA, and another Robert Stephenson setback.
Mar 16 2026 9:00am
Projected rotations are clarifying in Seattle, Anaheim, Detroit, and Milwaukee...
Mar 14 2026 9:27am
Houston manager Joe Espada noted that Bryan Abreu will be his 9th-inning guy with Josh Hader not at full strength. Plus notes on the Reds rotation, White Sox catcher, and Lindor's recovery.
Mar 12 2026 8:56am
Joey Wentz will miss the 2026 season; another blow to the beleaguered ATL pitching staff. Plus, concerns about Romy González, and opportunity for Oswald Peraza in Anaheim...
Mar 10 2026 7:50am
RHP Chad Patrick will be a member of the Brew Crew's starting five; Karros pushes for a starting job in COL; Littell inks contract with WSH, and more.
Mar 9 2026 9:39am

Tools