There’s no prize for having the best record in spring training, no Grapefruit League or Cactus League championships. But, even with games that really aren’t important once March 31 arrives, it’s painful to look at the standings and see the St. Louis Cardinals at the bottom with only two wins to go with seven losses (and, though not listed, two ties).

Even with the small number of innings to skew things, looking at the pitching stats thus far is not terribly pleasant either. The hitting stats are a little better … until you really start looking at some of those toward the bottom.

Patience, right? It’s only March 12. Things will improve, because these are the Cardinals. They are talented. They have depth. They are the reigning National League champions. They’re good enough, they’re smart enough and, doggone it, people like them!

We like them!

Even when we get frustrated by them … which we sometimes do these days. Right?

But things can — and will — change. A week ago, we were all worried about Kolten Wong. Now look at him. Not that he’s at the top of those stats, and that’s OK. He’s improving. He’s relaxing. He’s doing back flips and being featured everywhere, with this story in the New York Times especially good. As is this one by Derrick Goold. Plus you can see his homer from yesterday in this story by Jenifer Langosch (which is not to say her story isn’t good, because it is as well).

With all of that, plenty of poetic fodder …

Spring games do not count.
This we know is very true.
But good results help.

Pitching: time to fret?
Or plenty of time still left?
(It does concern me.)

Spring is for new things
Pitchers wouldn’t try “for real”
Yet outs still wanted.

Most hitters are fine
Good to see Holliday shine.
Bourjos, Yadi too.

And interesting
Daniel D and Koz — so good!
Fighting for a job.

On the other end
We see Jon Jay and Matt Carp.
Jhonny too. Yikes! Ouch!

But things can turn fast.
Relax, confidence will come.
For Kolten, it has.

More comfortable,
With results now at the plate.
And even back flips.

They will all be fine.
We don’t need to worry yet.
But win a damn game.


Christine Coleman is the lead writer for Aaron Miles’ Fastball. Follow her on Twitter, @CColeman802, or email aaronmilesfastball@gmail.com. Also follow @AMilesFastball for the latest updates and like us on Facebook if you don’t already.