We’re continuing our deep dive into the 2026 MLB season with veteran analyst Rob Rains, and the outlook for the St. Louis Cardinals might be more optimistic than you’ve heard. While projections point to a lower win total, there’s a strong case to be made that this team can outperform expectations. We get into why the pitching staff could be the difference-maker, how the roster is being shaped, and why this group still has the pieces to compete in a tough but not dominant division.

From there, we look across the state at the Kansas City Royals, who are quietly building momentum of their own. With young players stepping up and veterans adjusting their roles, there’s a real sense that this team could take a step forward in 2026. We also touch on the bigger picture, how MLB’s broadcast model continues to impact fans, and what it means for accessibility moving forward.

We&rsquo;re continuing our deep dive into the 2026 MLB season with veteran analyst&nbsp;Rob Rains, and the outlook for the St. Louis Cardinals might be more optimistic than you&rsquo;ve heard. While projections point to a lower win total, there&rsquo;s a strong case to be made that this team can outperform expectations. We get into why the pitching staff could be the difference-maker, how the roster is being shaped, and why this group still has the pieces to compete in a tough but not dominant division.
From there, we look across the state at the Kansas City Royals, who are quietly building momentum of their own. With young players stepping up and veterans adjusting their roles, there&rsquo;s a real sense that this team could take a step forward in 2026. We also touch on the bigger picture, how MLB&rsquo;s broadcast model continues to impact fans, and what it means for accessibility moving forward.

Stay in the Game with 102.1 The Won – Springfield’s Sports Hub

Welcome to the official 102.1 The Won — your all-access pass to local sports, expert picks, live betting odds, and real-time updates for the Springfield, MO area.

-Local Coverage, Local Voice — In-depth coverage of Springfield-area teams and sports stories you care about.
-Live Sports Odds & Boards — View real-time odds for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more.
-Pro Picks & Betting Insights — Daily expert picks and analysis to help you level up your game.
-On-Air Shows & Podcasts — Stream live shows like VSiN Primetime, Keys to the Kingdom, and more.
-Alerts & News — Get notified on big games, breaking scores.

Stay in the Game with 102.1 The Won &ndash; Springfield&rsquo;s Sports Hub
Welcome to the official 102.1 The Won &mdash; your all-access pass to local sports, expert picks, live betting odds, and real-time updates for the Springfield, MO area.
-Local Coverage, Local Voice &mdash; In-depth coverage of Springfield-area teams and sports stories you care about. -Live Sports Odds &amp; Boards &mdash; View real-time odds for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. -Pro Picks &amp; Betting Insights &mdash; Daily expert picks and analysis to help you level up your game. -On-Air Shows &amp; Podcasts &mdash; Stream live shows like VSiN Primetime, Keys to the Kingdom, and more. -Alerts &amp; News &mdash; Get notified on big games, breaking scores.