Here’s an interesting question to consider: What player can make the most difference in the Cardinals’ season by performing as they are expected to perform?
The point of this question is to eliminate, for now, the extremes on the Cardinals’ roster. Take Alex Reyes. Yes, if Reyes earns a spot in the rotation in spring, pitches like his hair is on fire, and wins the Cy Young, he’ll make a huge impact on the team’s win totals. That’s not expected, though. Nor is it remotely likely.
That’s why I’m focusing on the expected production from the club’s core.