Strauss: Theriot gets a rare start

Theriot actually is a riot given the chance.

“The first thing — almost the only thing I heard when I walked into spring training were questions about defense. It never really stopped,” Theriot said. “You make an error in a spring game and then you hear it even louder. At some point, I stopped thinking about making a great play and became more concerned about making a mistake. That’s not how I play. I’ve never played timid — ever. If I messed up, I’d think about making the next play.”

Theriot has moved from shortstop to second base in each of the last two seasons. That does not mean he is prepared to consider himself a right-side defender.

“I don’t think at this point in my career I see myself as a second baseman,” he said. “That said, I have no problem going to play second base. It doesn’t bother me at all.”

The Cardinals led the division until July 27, four days before the Furcal acquisition. Speaking only about his own role, Theriot noted, “When I was playing shortstop we were in first place. I know that. It is what it is.”