Coming up: The Cards and (Oakland) A's: How small market teams remain competitive

If you followed the last few posts on this ridiculously nerdy site, you know I've been analyzing why the Braves and Cubs failed to make optimal use of the talent they had during the 1960s and early '70s. Now it's time to look at two franchises that understood and ruthlessly exploited talent--much to the delight of their fans, which is what it's all about at the end of the day.

First I'll dissect, in that way that I have, the Cardinals. This is probably my favorite baseball franchise, given that this relatively small-market team is consistently a winner. Then we'll have some fun with the A's, another lovable bunch. I'm knee-deep in the research now, but stay tuned: I will disgorge the truth about the Cards and A's soon!