Road To Success? Cardinals' Schedule About to Get a Lot Easier

Despite improved play after acquiring Julio Lugo and Matt Holliday, the St. Louis Cardinals have not really gained much ground on the National League Central division. After Chicago's 4-2 win over the Reds on Monday, the Birds are actually behind the Cubbies because of playing more games despite the winning record in the season series. The future is bright for St. Louis. With an MLB high nine off days over the course of the rest of the year, and a schedule in August that includes seven (of eight) series against losing teams and five off days, the Birds are poised to go on a run. Here are three reasons that the Cardinals shouldn't sweat too much about their battle over first place based on the past couple weeks. 3. Pujols' Struggles: Honestly, how long is this going to last? Albert hasn't hit much of anything since the All-Star break, but the Birds have still held off all contenders. With him playing well again and Matt Holliday and Ryan Ludwick demanding respect behi...