To say that Spring Training is meaningless is not quite true. It’s mostly true. It’s mostly said so that we do not in any way, shape, or form use the stats in any sort of statistical analysis. It is obviously useful to the players so that they can use spring training for whatever they need to do to get back into game playing mode. It can also be very important for players on the fringe, players in position battles, and non-roster invitees trying to get the team’s attention.
Ten games have been played in Spring Training. If you’re unfamiliar with how the Cardinals, and I assume most teams, have used those first ten games, here’s a good indicator.