They have lots and lots of it, despite the many bad things that happened to their staff this season.
Alex Reyes came back from Tommy John surgery, then popped a lat muscle. Adam Wainwright’s elbow balked. Injuries and immaturity kept Carlos Martinez from reaching his potential. Michael Wacha’s health took an oblique turn.
Despite all those problems, the Cardinals stayed in the playoff chase until the final weekend of the season. Many top prospects graduated to fill big league roles and the team acquired additional depth through trades.
Pitching remains an organizational strength — despite myriad injuries and some September fatigue — and the Cardinals must exploit that while trying to get back to the 100-victory level.