Putting on pinstripes 'surreal' for McCutchen

Kelly nabs Cain at second ST. LOUIS -- This year was supposed to be different for Carson Kelly. He was to spend it backing up Yadier Molina and preparing to be his eventual successor behind the plate.

At least, that's what most everyone expected.

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But after watching Kelly struggle in Spring Training and seeing how quickly Francisco Pena fit in, the Cardinals opted to cast Kelly in a different role, one where the returned to Triple-A to improve his game. Simultaneously, he also helped improve others.

The wave of young pitchers who have filled holes on the Major League staff all came through Kelly on their way to St. Louis.

"They continued to grow down there, and now they're…