Cardinals third base coach and infield instructor Jose Oquendo said Matt Carpenter is "ahead of schedule" in his tryout at second base. Oquendo is referring to Carpenter being "ahead of schedule" as it relates to Skip Schumaker, who also made a move to second base without every having previously played the position. Of course, it's not surprising that Carpenter has caught on quicker since he, unlike Schumaker, has been an infielder. The Cards are hoping that Carpenter can become adequate enough at second to see ample time at the position in 2013. Even if Carpenter wins the starting job, Daniel Descalso would still likely see plenty of starts and also sub in as a defensive replacement late in games.