2008 Preview: Offense, Part Two

Knowing that Spencer was going to discuss how the 2008 Cardinal offense projects as of now, I already intended to sound off on the topic. One hitch did occur, however, as the starting lineup Spencer projected pretty much echoed the exact thoughts that were beginning to solidify in my brain. There is one important wild card, however, and his name is Colby Rasmus. While he hasn't touched Triple A yet, Rasmus could impress the team enough to stick as a big leaguer immediately. Most likely, though, he'll be optioned down regardless of anything he does in camp.
But by God, young Colby will be looming in the minds of Cardinal fans all season: Rasmus, or what we all believe Rasmus to be (a patient hitter with plus power and speed), sure could transform the lineup into something much more intriguing. His presence could also potentially allow Rick Ankiel to hit lower in the order, where his power would be of more value and his lack of patience would be less detrimental.

So, to reiterate, here is my ideal Redbird lineup, taking into account that no major league manager, especially Tony La Russa, is ever going to try that "in order of descending on-base percentage" thing, and that Cesar Izturis (sigh) is going to start at shortstop.

1-Brian Barton (R)
2-Chris Duncan (L)
3-Albert Pujols (R)
4-Troy Glaus (R)
5-Rick Ankiel (L)
6-Yadier Molina (R)
7-Adam Kennedy (L)
8-Cesar Izturis (S)

As much as I really want to see Barton make the team and start somewhere in the outfield until Rasmus gets the call, there is a much more sickening, likely option. La Russa's probably going to give the starting spot, even if Barton does make the club, to his best friend Skip Schumaker. I'm going to assume the worst for a moment and present you with what I'm afraid might happen.

1-Skip Schumaker (L)
2-Rick Ankiel (L)
3-Albert Pujols (R)
4-Troy Glaus (R)
5-Chris Duncan (L)
6-Yadier Molina (R)
7-Adam Kennedy (L)
8-Pitcher
9-Cesar Izturis (R)

But maybe there is a little hope to be had. Recently, when asked about what he values in the leadoff spot, La Russa said, "The number one asset is to get on base. Even if he is a slug, that's better than a guy who can run but can't get on base." Holy shit! A revelation! So maybe, just maybe, he'll realize that Brian Barton knows how to take a walk and Chris Duncan is going to find himself on the basepaths more frequently than Rick Ankiel. Things aren't looking great, but maybe there a few strides being made within this organization that we can all take solace in.