Brian Barton speeds to No. 2 spot in order

JUPITER, Fla. — A year ago, St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Brian Barton had the safety net of being a Rule 5 pick to fall back on, and that gave him an edge over other prospects when it came to making the major-league roster. Through a series of cameo appearances, splashes of production and a couple injuries, Barton was able to spend the entire year on the Cardinals’ roster (or major-league disabled list).

Now he no longer has that net.

Barton is tied for the team lead with two home runs, both on a gusty day at Roger Dean Stadium. Those are two of his four hits this spring. He has also struck out six times against two walks. Yet, his speed and often lively bat remain of interest to the Cardinals as they look if there is a second righthanded-hitting outfielder to take north. Barton has options remaining and can be assigned to Triple-A Memphis without threat of losing him or having to return him to Cleveland, his original ballclub. And this season figured to be his year to get playing time in Class AAA, as opposed to spot duty in the majors. Unless all this shuttling of outfielders into the infield (i.e., Joe Mather) leaves a role open that Barton has the most experience to fill.

Barton is in the lineup today, batting second — a spot manager Tony La Russa has put him before because he has the speed to score from first an Albert Pujols’ extra-base hit.

(stltoday.com)