How Nolan Arenado And Paul Goldschmidt Impact The St. Louis Cardinals' Lineup After Edman's Departure

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Post on May 23, 2025

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Arenado and Goldschmidt: Shouldering the Load After Edman's Departure for the St. Louis Cardinals?

The St. Louis Cardinals' offseason saw a significant shift in their lineup with Tommy Edman's departure to the San Diego Padres. While Edman's versatility and contributions will be missed, the Cardinals still boast a formidable offensive core anchored by two perennial All-Stars: Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt. But how will these two powerhouses adapt and impact the team's batting order following Edman's exit? This article delves into the potential lineup adjustments and the increased responsibility falling on Arenado and Goldschmidt's shoulders.

The Edman-Sized Hole:

Tommy Edman's departure leaves a considerable void. He wasn't just a reliable hitter; his speed, defensive prowess, and ability to play multiple positions provided invaluable flexibility to the Cardinals' lineup and field. His absence necessitates a restructuring of the batting order and a shift in the team's overall strategy.

Arenado and Goldschmidt: The Pillars of Strength:

Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt are undoubtedly the Cardinals' offensive cornerstones. Arenado, a Gold Glove third baseman, consistently delivers power and RBI, while Goldschmidt, a former National League MVP, boasts a keen eye at the plate and a high on-base percentage. Their presence alone provides a solid foundation for the lineup.

Adjusting the Batting Order:

With Edman gone, the Cardinals will need to carefully consider their batting order. Placing Arenado and Goldschmidt strategically is crucial. Options include:

• Leading off with a speedster: This approach aims to put pressure on opposing pitchers and create scoring opportunities. A player like Lars Nootbaar or Brendan Donovan could fill this role, potentially followed by Goldschmidt and Arenado in the heart of the order.

• Power in the middle: Maintaining Goldschmidt and Arenado in the 3-4 slots, leveraging their power hitting to drive in runs, remains a viable option. This necessitates a strong top of the order to get on base ahead of them.

Increased Responsibility and Expectations:

The departure of Edman inevitably places greater responsibility on Arenado and Goldschmidt. They will need to not only maintain their own high standards but also carry a heavier offensive load, providing leadership and setting the tone for the rest of the lineup. Their performance will be crucial to the Cardinals' success in 2023.

Beyond the Numbers:

While statistical analysis is important, it’s also crucial to consider the intangible aspects. Arenado and Goldschmidt are established leaders in the clubhouse. Their experience and mentorship will be vital in guiding younger players and fostering a cohesive team dynamic amidst this lineup change.

Conclusion: A Test of Strength and Adaptability:

The departure of Tommy Edman presents a significant challenge for the St. Louis Cardinals. However, the team's resilience and the enduring power of Nolan Arenado and Paul Goldschmidt provide a strong foundation for navigating this change. The upcoming season will be a test of their ability to adapt, but their experience and skill suggest that they are well-equipped to shoulder the increased responsibility and continue to lead the Cardinals' offense to success. The success of the Cardinals' 2023 season hinges on how effectively they navigate this transition and how Arenado and Goldschmidt respond to the increased pressure.