CINCINNATI – There are quantitative reasons galore why Cardinals manager Mike Shildt nudged heavyweights Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado up a spot in the lineup, from their past success to modern lineup dynamics, and he can recite them all, if asked.
And then there is the figurative one.
“Just an immediate punch in the face that says, ‘Here it is,’” Shildt said.
The statement he wants atop his lineup, Shildt got to start the season.
Before Cincinnati opening day starter Luis Castillo threw his 14th pitch of the new season, the Cardinals had a 6-0 lead and rookie Dylan Carlson clanged a three-run homer off a foul pole.