The St. Louis Cardinals had one of the worst seasons in recent memory in 2023.
St. Louis had high expectations but wasn't able to live up to them. The Cardinals never truly got their footing and won just 71 games and finished in last place in the National League Central.
Although last season wasn't great, the Cardinals seem like they are in a much better place right now. St. Louis made some intriguing additions and the roster already is improved on paper.
Plus, one of the Cardinals' biggest stars is in a much better place. Star third baseman Nolan Arenado had a down year last season as well and dealt with some inconsistent play, as well as a tough injury to his back.
It sounds like everything is going well for him now, though, and he's in a much better place heading into Spring Training, according to The Athletic's Katie Woo.
"I feel really good," Arenado said to Woo. "The way I feel right now -- obviously it's early and we'll see how spring goes -- but the way I feel right now is better than I felt last year at this point. My swing is better right now than it was probably at any point last year.
"I'm already hitting, taking groundballs, moving, (and) running. I feel like I'm ready to go now. I really like where I'm at. I found a routine and I found something that has made me feel better. I've had to learn that less is more, and I have to find a way to make sure I apply that to the season also, though."
A bounce-back season from Arenado certainly is a necessity for the Cardinals. If he can return to form and the pitching performs better, maybe St. Louis could surprise some people next year.
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