As “card” carrying members of Cardinal Nation, I think we can all agree to dislike the Cubs in some way, shape or form. A loss to the Cubs is a little more heart-wrenching than most. In a season that has started by having the best record in the majors, to sitting in the best division in the majors (record-wise), a loss to the Cubs is even harder. If it is a close game, maybe it would be a little more hurtful, but with the mini-blowout today, it was disheartening.
With the call up of Kolten Wong from AAA, the Cardinal faithful were in excitement mode. Wong made the start today at second, which confused me, but hey, it’s the position he was used to playing. I mean, it’s not like we have a second baseman that is playing out his wazoo, and has been consistent throughout the season. It’s not like he was a first time All-Star, and proves to be a major force in scoring some runs. Wait a minute….Carpenter does all those things! I’m so confused.
Don’t get me wrong, I was completely excited last night when I got a text from my bro-in-law telling me that Wong was getting the call up. I’ve heard nothing but positive things about this kid. I don’t think that he SHOULDN’T have been called up. I think he’s earned it. Unfortunately, I don’t agree with the placement of him at second base in today’s game.
Why don’t I agree? Because Matt Carpenter is a beast. I think he’s earned his place on the field where he is comfortable. Starting today at 3rd base, he was 0-3 at the plate, with a walk. I don’t want to question Matheny’s motives, but jeez La-weez, Mike, why oh why can’t we have some consistency? It is my own personal opinion, which you may choose to agree or disagree with, that players thrive on consistency. Batting orders, placement in the field, catcher/pitcher match ups, all of these things rely on consistency. What comes with consistency? Success. Wins. You get my drift?
Going back to Wong, who was 0-3 today, here’s my proposal–try him out at short. I mean, come on, let’s recognize the fact that Kozma is just not doing it on the offensive side of things. In August he is hitting .097. In the last week, he is hitting .063. I could use a break from Kozma in the lineup. Sure, I’m a big Descalso fan, but if we’re going to keep switching this stuff up, let’s try Wong at shortstop. And, I don’t mean for one game. Yes, he’s a second baseman, but short and second are as close in positions as you can get on the diamond. Matheny, if you’re listening (reading), and I know you are, here’s your line up for tomorrow:
Carpenter 2B, Beltran RF, Holliday LF, Craig 1B, Molina C, Jay CF, Freese 3B, Wong SS, Kelly P
There. Tomorrow’s work is done for you. You’re welcome. Let’s get out of the tie in the standings with the Reds, huh?
Go Cards!
12 comments
I don’t mind them playing him at second base, it’s his position. Matt Carpenter’s position is 3B, he just started playing this year. Carp at 3B and Wong at 2B is most likely what we will be seeing next year too. This was Freese’s year to prove his long term worth, and he just hasn’t done that. He has been hot for as long as a slump usually lasts.
This comment is my thoughts exactly
It would have been nice if they had given Wong some playing time at SS down in AAA. I know they want to win games down there, but maybe instead try to move him to a position where they know he’s needed. Just a thought. Oh well.
Nah, I don’t agree with that. I know a lot of people want him to be a SS but he is not. A player who is average at 2B will be worse than average at SS. He has developed into a better 2B than expected. He progressed so fast in the minors because he swung wood in college and the cape cod league and got a head start on it. I would like to see Ryan Jackson come up and get another chance. SS should be our top priority in the offseason… and preferably somebody other than Furcal unless he is right and at a decent price.
Megan, have you been following baseball? I have to disagree with everything you’ve said, except for the obvious fact that we need a break from Kozma.
I’m sorry that you disagree. To answer your question, yes, I follow baseball. I also stand behind my opinion. Yes, this is my opinion. Because you disagree, doesn’t make it incorrect, the same way that me disagreeing with your opinion doesn’t make yours incorrect. We can agree to disagree.
The position you play has nothing to do with the way you hit, not in little league and certainly not in the Major Leagues.
So you think he should play ss because he can hit?
My bigger problem was, after Westbrook gives up 3 in the 1st, you have 1st 2nd one out, Wong up….who’s the fastest guy in the team….Why not make him bunt to third, so you are pretty much assured of getting at least one run back, plus its a positive at bat for him. Instead of a deflating, inning killing DP.
Correction…none out.
My only problem with the roster of this particular game was that Westbrook was in it. I’m ready for him to be out of the rotation
Wong played 2nd in college, he played 2nd in the minors. Wong plays second base. That’s it, that’s all. If Wong is on the team he’s at 2nd. Moving Carp over to 3rd is the smart move, if he is going to stick where he plays should not have any change to how he hits. The team is trying to get things going and I like(d) the move. Let the kid play, see what he’s got, leave him alone.
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