Cardinals management admits it lost its competitive edge over rival teams in drafting, player development and the use of advanced analytics.
But another factor has dragged this team back toward the National League pack. Like the San Francisco Giants, they are paying a stiff price for perennial contention.
While some teams can’t win for losing, we’ve seen that these teams can lose for winning.
“There are certain demands on having success you might not think about,” newly promoted Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak said.
The Cardinals and Giants have been the National League’s model franchises.