The 2011 World Series Champions better in 2012?

Can the St. Louis Cardinals be better in 2012? As crazy as it sounds, I think they may have improved as a team, even with the loss of Albert Pujols to the Los Angeles Angels. As well as losing future hall of famer Albert Pujols, the St. Louis Cardinals lost the legend, Tony La Russa. You'd think they'd be completely destroyed? Wrong. The Cardinals managed to sign extensions with Lance Berkman and Chris Carpenter and re-sign Rafael Furcal but more importantly they will still have their core from 2011 for 2012 - Matt Carpenter, David Freese, Skip Schumaker, Allen Craig, Matt Holliday, Adam Wainwright, and Yadier Molina.

To make up for the loss of Albert Pujols, the St. Louis Cardinals added outfielder Carlos Beltrán who is a .283 carrer hitter which is nothing compared to Albert Pujols' . 328 carrer average. It's still an improvement to the lineup for 2012 since Beltrán had a .328 batting average and 7 homers last year in 44 games at the pitching park of the San Fransico Giants.

Who will replace Tony La Russa though? Well Mike Matheny of course. Sound famaliar? Didn't think so. Mike Matheny will have a tough rookie season as a manager defending the World Series Title. Mike Matheny is a former back catcher for the Cardinals. I think he will bring a new attitude and good energy to the club house.

Another reason why the Cardinals could be better in 2013 is because of their division. The Milwaukee Brewers have lost Prince Fielder just like the Cardinals have lost Albert Pujols so this year I think that the Brewers will not be as big competition for the Cardinals. I feel the Cardinals will take first place in their division this season with the Milwaukee Brewers battling with the Cincinnati Reds for second. The Cardinals are revamped and have tones of confidence coming of last season. I wouldn't be surprised if they make another run at the World Series. In 2013, we'll find out if the Cards can take off and fly high. Follow @BaseballBo