PT TOMORROW: NL Central —DeJong becoming entrenched as starter

St. Louis Cardinals

Since his late June demotion to AAA-Memphis, Aledmys Díaz (SS, STL) has done little to demonstrate he deserves to return to his starting shortstop role in St. Louis. Through 65 Triple-A plate appearances, Diaz has three doubles, two homers, and is batting .260. He was hit by a pitch in his hand on July 25 and will reportedly miss a week, making his potential return to St. Louis more likely to be weeks, rather than days, away.

When opportunity knocked (as discussed in this space on July 1), Paul DeJong (2B/SS, STL) answered. The 23-year-old infielder has displayed a big power (14 HR and 157 xPX) and low contact (67% ct%) combination through his first two months (183 AB) in the majors. He batted third in the order in...

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 Tomorrow

Richie Palacios is the latest player to don the first base mitt for Tampa Bay, but will his hold on playing time last?
Sep 10 2025 3:10am
The final PT Tomorrow NL East roundup of the 2025 season has some thoughts on winning today, tomorrow, and into the future. Plus: goings-on in PHI; question marks at NYM; Weathers' imminent return in MIA; SS & SP in ATL; OF & SP in WAS; more.
Sep 8 2025 3:07am
What does it mean at the end of games for MLB's best team?
Sep 6 2025 3:09am
Pablo López excelled in his latest rehab start and could return this weekend.
Sep 5 2025 3:05am
Jeremiah Jackson has carved out a regular role in Baltimore. Will this continue with several players expected to return from injury in September?
Sep 3 2025 3:05am

Tools