X-Factors for each MLB playoff team

Sep 23, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Marcus Stroman (6) reacts to catcher Russell Martin (55) on his three run home run in the seventh inning against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 6, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Cardinals left fielder Stephen Piscotty (55) dives and catches a line drive hit by Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Neil Walker (not pictured) during the eighth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

St. Louis Cardinals: Stephen Piscotty

The Cardinals‘ ability to plug-and-play just about any prospect has been a big part of their success in recent seasons. Even with numerous injuries this year, including to Adam Wainwright and Matt Holliday , St. Louis has been able to roll to an impressive 95-56 record behind strong performances from some unknown players.

That doesn’t quite apply fully to Piscotty, as he was considered a strong prospect throughout the minors. Still, Piscotty has exceeded everyone’s expectations, posting a 132 wRC+ in 228 plate appearances in his young career according to FanGraphs.

If that pace continues, Piscotty would have his best numbers since Rookie ball, yet another testament to the Cardinals’ development system. Piscotty is running a .383 BABIP, which means his average might come down soon, but he’s showing enough power to keep being productive.

Holliday has been activated from the disabled list in a pinch hitting role for now, so the Cardinals will have to figure out their playing time situation in the outfield. Still, it’s going to be difficult to take Piscotty out of the lineup based on the way he’s hit so far.

Piscotty’s performance could be a huge key for the Cardinals going forward. With an outstanding starting rotation, most of St. Louis’ question marks in the postseason will be on the offensive side of thing.

Next: New York Mets: Bartolo Colon

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