Monday morning already. At least it’s now March, although it’s still four (long) weeks until the St. Louis Cardinals start the 2013 season. Plus manager Mike Matheny has a ruptured disc and might need surgery. And who knew that not having surgery for a torn elbow ligament would mean trouble for Rafael Furcal? Shocker! (Except not really.)

Add all of that to more winter weather in the Midwest, and all we’re really up for today is looking at some nice pictures from spring training to help us feel better — right?

Here’s hoping these will help. (All photos from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.)

Feel better yet?

 

How about now? (Best wishes and feel better soon, Mike!)

 

These portraits of the Cardinals by Post-Dispatch photographer Chris Lee are really terrific …

 

See?

 

Although some guys look a little more comfortable posing than Shane Robinson does. (Sorry, Shane!)

 

See, Adam is enjoying this.

 

And our now Little Wolf Pup looks like the “after” in a weight loss ad, doesn’t he?

 

Back to some spring training photos, whatever John Mabry is telling Matt Adams, it’s obviously working.

 

Apparently Jimmy forgot his glove.

 

Everyone’s loving Oscar Taveras so far this spring, and what’s not to love? Here’s his grand slam swing from Thursday. Although I’m actually posting this photo so everyone can see just how his last name is spelled. T-A-V-E-R-A-S. Please pay attention both to the vowels and their order. Thank you!

 

The Cardinals other spring sensation thus far is Michael Wacha, who reminds us here that pitching really is an uncomfortable thing to do with your arm …

 

To make up for that, here’s a better photo. (Does he look like Adam Wainwright’s younger brother in this to anyone else?)

 

So far, so good with the Matt-Carpenter-as-a-second-baseman project.

 

Can you name this Cardinal?

 

Jake Westbrook shows his sensitive side …

 

As does Mitchell Boggs. (Who knew pitchers had sensitive sides?)

 

Just for Miranda, it’s John Gast.

 

Hello, Daniel.

 

Allen Craig and a bat — two things that go perfectly together.

 

Finally, because we’re likely going to be seeing a lot of him ahead, it’s Pete Kozma — being either sensitive or scared. Let’s hope it’s sensitive …

Hope your Monday is a little better now.



Christine Coleman is the lead St. Louis Cardinals reporter for Aaron Miles’ Fastball. Follow her on Twitter, @CColeman802, or email aaronmilesfastball@gmail.com. Also follow @AMilesFastball for the latest updates.