St. Louis Cardinals’ Carlos Beltran preparing himself for the big show – MLB News
The St. Louis Cardinals’ newly acquired switch hitter Carlos Beltran stated on Thursday, February 23, that he will have more games in Grapefruit League to prepare himself for the new season. Beltran, who signed a two-year contract with the Cardinals in December
2011, reported to the club on Thursday.
"We did a lot of things we didn't do the year before, and that is why I'm so happy this year," Beltran said. "This year I look forward to playing a lot of more [Grapefruit League] games and being able to get the timing and feel my legs and my body out there."
The 34-year-old player had a satisfactory season the past year, representing two different teams. He was part of the San Francisco Giants, which had won the 2010 World Series and the New York Mets.
He had a .385 on-base percentage with a .300 batting average throughout the season. Beltran managed 84 RBIs, hitting no less than 22 home-runs. With the performance that he exhibited in 2011, he was quickly acquired by the Cardinals when the former became
a free-agent.
"Last year, I think it was good for me to be able to stay in right field and stay fresh, and I feel that I did real good," Beltran said. "I think I adjusted to it really good. I'm here to help the team anywhere I can.”
However, on the other hand, there was not much of media glare on Thursday when the player made his entry in the camp. From the transitioning through a change that saw Albert Pujols sign a deal with the Los Angeles Angels, Berkman is expected to charge the
offence for the Cardinals.
A proven outfielder that Beltran has remained in his illustrious career, he has got an auspicious opportunity to put on display the talent he has. He has joined the St. Louis Cardinals at the right time: Just when the Redbirds are the MLB Champions. The
question that lingers and will keep lurking around is will Beltran be able to compensate for the absence of Albert Pujols in the offence?
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