Cardinals and Pirates are excited and loose before decisive game

Heading into Game 5 of their National League division series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the St. Louis Cardinals can take comfort in this: They’re 7-1 the last three years when facing postseason elimination.

Manager Mike Matheny said poise comes from a mindset of sticking to routine that is established during spring training.

“We saw it in Pittsburgh, and I anticipate seeing it tomorrow,” Matheny said Tuesday after most players attended an optional workout. “They show up like it’s another — it’s another great day.”

Right-hander Adam Wainwright, who will start for the Cardinals in Game 5, was loose and playful on the podium, joking that he was knocked out early on purpose in last year’s division series finale at Washington to “get the mojo flowing.” He tore a page from the Tony La Russa quote book, declining to discuss possible wrinkles for Game 5, turning to Matheny and asking, “Is that a scouting report? That’s a scouting report.”

Although this is the Pirates’ first playoff appearance since 1992, they’ve looked seasoned too.

“This is obviously an exciting time, a high-pressure situation, and you know, this is what you prepare for all year,” said rookie right-hander Gerrit Cole, who will start for the Pirates. “Yeah, it’s extremely exciting, and I can’t wait.”

The Pirates will be facing an opponent they know too well. It’ll be their 24th meeting this season, with strong stretches on both sides and the Pirates holding a 12-11 advantage. Etc.

Larry Bowa, a former Philadelphia Phillies manager and shortstop, returned to the team to serve as bench coach under Manager Ryne Sandberg. Pete Mackanin is returning to the Phillies to be the third base coach and Wally Joyner declined to remain as assistant hitting coach to Steve Henderson. ... The Arizona Diamondbacks fired pitching coach Charles Nagy and first base coach Steve Sax. The team announced that Manager Kirk Gibson and the rest of his staff will return for next season. ... Hank Steinbrenner, the New York Yankees’ co-chairman, said he wants Joe Girardi to remain with the club and is awaiting the manager’s decision on a new contract.