Cardinals' Dexter Fowler: Excels in leadoff role in first spring game

Fowler drew a pair of walks, scored twice and stole a base in Saturday's 8-7 Grapefruit League loss to the Marlins.

Analysis:

Fowler's debut couldn't have been more ideal as the new Cardinals leadoff man. Both of his at-bats had a positive impact on the scoreboard. He draw a five-pitch free pass in the first, promptly swiped second, and then eventually came around to score on Matt Carpenter's sacrifice fly. Following his second walk, Fowler came home again courtesy of Carpenter on the latter's third-inning two-run blast. Even though he only took two swings overall, Fowler was nevertheless very satisfied with his debut. "The way we manufactured that run in the first inning was key," he said. "If we can do that we'll win a lot of games."