The St. Louis Cardinals have relied on Matt Carpenter to be a cornerstone of their offense and their defense. Manager Mike Matheny recently let Carpenter know that the All-Star infielder will be expected to open the 2017 season as the everyday first baseman.
Carpenter was a bit of a utility player in 2016 and appeared at third base, second base, and first base, which is now his new home. It will be his third different starting position in the past four years. General manager John Mozeliak confirmed the move to first base Tuesday during the general manager meetings.