So far the Cardinals have dominated the N.L. Central, going 16-4 against their less-talented divisionmates. Then again, everyone else has feasted on the N.L. Central: every other team in the East and West---even sad-sack 6-20 Colorado---has a winning record against the Central. Which helps to explain how eight of 10 non-Central teams are .500 or better.

With last night’s loss to the Padres, the Birds are now 2-6 in their eight contests outside the baby pool.

Still, at this rate, the Cardinals will go something like 90-72 if they continue to win 80% of their Central games but just 25% of the rest of their games, and will at least get a post-season berth.