Bernie Miklasz, writing for 101ESPN, tries to ease Cardinals fans fears as meaningful September baseball is about to be played. I like his way of seeing things.

The Cardinals will play 10 of their final 16 games against the Brewers (three) and Cubs (seven.) That might unnerve some folks, because the Brewers and (especially) Cubs can launch direct attacks on the Cardinals and cut into the lead. But I guess I see it the other way: if you’re holding a four-game lead, and have the stronger position, then you should be excited to have a straight-on shot to weaken, wobble or knockout your rivals.

If the Cardinals fear playing seven vs. Chicago and three against molten-hot Milwaukee, then they’re missing competitive fiber. And I don’t believe that’s true. I decline to insult them by conjuring up — or assuming — some worst-case scenario.

One thing I don’t think is happening to the Cardinals team is a lack of “competitive fiber.”