Not Outhinking Our Common Sense

One thing I love about the St. Louis Cardinals is that they rarely out-think themselves in a sport where managerial adjustments are often characterized as "overcoaching."  "We don't overthink too many things," says third baseman David Freese.  "We just go out there and play hard and see what happens."  David is right in that the Cards entire organization is based on old fashioned common sense.  When Albert Pujols' contract was up, the Cardinals knew they could not meet the financial need of Mr. Pujols (who we all also believe is years beyond his reported age).  Many thought the team would flounder once Albert left, but the organization had other plans.  In fact, the year after Pujols' departure the Cards were one game away from the World Series.  This year, they are in the World Series.  "When you come into this clubhouse, there is just an expectation that 'we will win games here' and everyone gets in line," says backup center fielder Shane Robinson.  The Cards have built a culture of winning and it's evidence when new players come on board and get "in line" immediately.  It starts from the top where common sense is the rule of law and no one is bigger than the whole organization.  Maybe that's why Albert is not around anymore?  Go Cards!