Three missed postseasons turned some Cardinals fans into rather pessimistic forecasters.
Enjoy Friday morning’s introductory press conference, where the Cardinals will introduce a bona fide but humble star who could not be a more perfect fit here. Savor spring training, when Goldschmidt makes his first trip to the plate, and you see the opposing pitcher get that uneasy look in his eyes, the kind no Cardinal since Albert Pujols has prompted. Speaking of Pujols, relish watching Goldschmidt remind us what a difference excellent first-base defense makes.
If you want to worry, worry about how president of baseball operations John Mozeliak and general manager Michael Girsch will build on the momentum of a trade that turned replaceable depth into a middle-of-the-order mauler who happens to feast on National League Central pitchers as if they are crab legs at an all-you-can-eat buffet.