St. Louis Cardinals
2011 Record: 90-72
2011 Profits: +2.3 units
2011 O/U: 86-71-5
Pinnacle's 2012 NL Central Odds: +238
Greek's 2012 Season O/U Wins: 84.5ov-130
St. Louis went 86-71 to the OVER; huge money losers before 23-9 finish to the season. 8-1 as underdogs during that stretch, 15-9 as chalk. Underdogs in 12 of 18 playoff games (6-6 in those games).
Jamie Garcia posted 20 OVERS, tied with Roy Halladay for most in MLB.
Tony La Russa (retired), pitching coach Dave Duncan (leave of absence) and, perhaps most importantly, first baseman Albert Pujols. Brought in new manager Mike Matheny. Not a killer lineup: Berkman old, Holliday old, Yadier Molina ancient, Carlos Beltran old.
Right-hander Jason Motte, a star in the postseason as the Cardinals' final closer of half dozen or so who were auditioned, will be given the task at the start of the season. But there is no real veteran setup man ahead of him.
Kyle Lohse, Jaime Garcia, Adam Wainwright, Jake Westbrook, and Lance Lynn not overwhelming.
This team waaaaaay overachieved last year on their way to a sub .500 finish before getting hot in September.
