This is the fifth in a six-part Around the Horn series that is taking a position-by-position look at the Cardinals' projected starters and backup options heading into the 2017 season. We've already examined the catchers, corner infielders, starting pitchers and outfielders. Up next: the middle infielders.
ST. LOUIS -- How much of a defensive improvement the Cardinals see over last season will hinge largely on stability up the middle.
The organization has a potential future Hall of Famer behind the plate and their big free-agent prize in center. In the middle infield, however, will be two young players, one of whom is trying to build upon 2016 and one who has already flushed almost everything from it.