Rick Hummel on the 2015 Cardinals

Longtime St. Louis Post-Dispatch baseball writer Rick Hummel was in Quincy a few days ago.

I had a chance to visit with Rick after he spoke to the Quincy Exchange Club.

What does Hummel like about the '15 Cardinals as spring training is about to begin?

"I like their starting pitching. I think Michael Wacha's going to be OK. Martinez is a guy to watch. Is he going to be able to start? He hasn't been successful at that so far." Hummel also likes the bullpen with Rosenthal at the top.

The batting order is OK but Hummel says there is room for improvement. "I'd like
to see some more speed, I'd like to see some more runs manufactured rather them than having to take four singles to score a run."

As far as the National League Central Division in 2015, Hummel expects a close race in the National League Central with the possibility of all  five teams still being in the hunt into September.

More on the Cardinals, including newcomer Jason Heyward and where he might fit into the batting order.