JUPITER, Fla. — One of the spring training factoids we follow every March — with the help of the Cardinals’ media relations staff — is who is the last Cardinal not to appear in a game. It’s in-house nickname: Cardinals “Survivor”.

Last year Miguel Negron might have set a record with a double-digit streak.

(The research staff is still looking into certifying his record.)

This year: Colby Rasmus wins. And it’s only the sixth game.

Ubiquitous uber-prospect Rasmus is on the bus that’s pulling out of the parking lot right now, and he’ll start in center field and bat leadoff for the Cardinals against Baltimore at Fort Lauderdale this afternoon. He and catcher Mark Johnson had the only active survivor streaks, and Rasmus wins by default because Johnson is not going on this road trip.

The real test is ahead. Wednesday there is a doubleheader.

He’s scheduled to play in the night game.

Negron, like the ‘72 Dolphins, appears out of reach for another spring.

The Cardinals (2-3)

1. Colby Rasmus, CF
2. Joe Mather, LF
3. Juan Gonzalez, DH
4. Josh Phelps, 1B
5. Yadier Molina, C
6. Brian Barton, RF
7. Cesar Izturis, SS
8. Brian Barden, 3B
9. Brendan Ryan, 2B

Starting pitcher: RHP Anthony Reyes. Followed possibly by: RHP Kelvin Jimenez; RHP Jason Motte; RHP Mark Worrell; RHP Hugo Castellanos; RHP Clayton Mortensen; RHP Chris Perez; RHP P.J. Walters.

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