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August 13
Baseball Talk with Rosenthal
Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Michael Phelps was the first topic of conversation because Ken lives in Baltimore, where Phelps is from.
The guys discussed Arizona adding Adam Dunn and Tampa Bay’s needs. Rosenthal said that people may wonder why the Rays didn’t make a move before the deadline, but they were in fact very close to getting Jason Bay till the final minute. At this point though, they need to go find someone.
The Red Sox are at an advantage because they have a ton of money and a good farm system, but you have to give Theo Epstein credit because the original Manny Ramirez three way deal fell through a couple hours before the trade deadline, and he was still able to get something done with the Dodgers.
The guys talked about Manny’s impact in LA, and they discuss if Manny will be able to get another huge contract at the end of the season.
Rosenthal discusses possible shortstops that could play for the Cardinals next season, and answered a wide range of quick questions from Bernie.
Ken said that he doesn’t think Fuentes will be a waiver acquisition of the Cardinals, and he gave his thoughts on who will win the NL wild card.
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August 13
Dan McLaughlin Cards Update
Cardinals broadcaster Dan McLaughlin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon live from Miami before the Cardinals game.
The guys talked about the game last night, and how strange it was to have a three run lead after four batters, but then to not score again for the rest of the game.
They talked about all the little problems piling up and leading to losses for the Cards recently.
Chris Carpenter told Dan that he was planning on making his bullpen on Tuesday, but the club wanted to be safe and have him evaluated.
Dan said Chris Perez is blowing people away and bottom line we need to see what the guy has so the team knows if they should go after a guy like Francisco Rodriguez in the off-season or not.
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August 13
CHRIS CARPENTER TO MISS START
EXAM CONFIRMS MUSCLE STRAIN IN POSTERIOR SHOULDER
The St. Louis Cardinals announced following their game Tuesday that pitcher Chris Carpenter was examined by Dr. George Paletta in St Louis. An MRI and exam confirmed a muscle strain in his posterior shoulder.
There was no rotator cuff involvement, and Carpenter will rejoin the team in Florida where he will receive treatment from the Cardinals medical staff.
Carpenter will miss his scheduled start on Friday.
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August 13
Wainwright to Springfield
ADAM WAINWRIGHT - His injury rehabilitation assignment will be transferred from Memphis (AAA) to Springfield (AA). He is scheduled to make a third injury rehab appearance this coming Saturday, August 16, for the Springfield Cardinals.
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August 12
Carpenter Not Back to St. Louis Yet
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
Chris Carpenter was scheduled to be seen by Dr. Paletta Tuesday afternoon, but Strauss said he hasn’t made it to St. Louis yet (5pm), so it will be nearly 2 whole days before he is evaluated since he got hurt.
Strauss said there is no way Carpenter pitches Friday. The question is will he be able to make next week’s start or will he even have to go on the DL.
The understanding is that the Cardinals will back Wainwright off his next start till Friday or Saturday and have him prepare to be a starter.
With the uncertainty of Carpenter they want to be able to fall back on Wainwright as a starter if they need to. For the second time in a week and a half they are changing the plans for Wainwright.
Joe thinks that if Carp is out it doesn’t matter what Chris Perez does as closer because they will need another starter in the rotation. Strauss thinks that Perez was impressive last night getting the final outs.
The guys figured that the team would’ve gotten Carpenter back here as soon as possible.
Strauss is hearing that Brad Thompson will get the start Friday. That would give the team flexibility to option him out after the start to bring in another pitcher if they need to.
Joe said that the Cardinals aren’t going to catch the Cubs, but the Brewers have the capability to self destruct so he wouldn’t count them out of the race.
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August 11
Cards Update Monday
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Derrick Goold joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 live from Florida before the Cards game Monday evening.
Derrick said when they showed up at the ballpark today the plan for Chris Carpenter was to throw a bullpen Tuesday and see how he felt and then make a decision; however, the team has now decided to send him back so the doctors can see him before he throws again.
Carpenter has been through this enough that he seemed reserved. He is convinced that it isn’t his elbow, and he went through a battery of tests that said it wasn’t his shoulder either so he is confused but he knows that the pain means something is wrong. They expected him to be sore, but he really isn’t sore when he doesn’t move his arm and he didn’t even wake up stiff. When he goes through his motion, he feels resistance in some spots, which was somewhat expected, but they figured why have him throw a baseball without seeing a doctor.
Goold said that Adam Wainwright will throw 40 to 45 pitches tonight, which is still a reliever count, but it was expanded from the 25 pitches originally planned. With the more pitches, he can treat the session as at-bats. In his last outing he started just throwing curveballs towards the end because he was running out of pitches to throw and had just been throwing fastballs.
Rick Ankiel will start tonight mainly because of how large the center field area is, and LaRussa said if he plays a little cautious tonight he will understand. Derrick said that if the rain does come, Ankiel may not play an extended amount of time.
Colby Rasmus is down in Florida working out at the spring training complex. He is doing his workouts in the morning, and he is making process, but he is still in the mid-range of the rehab.
Blake Hawksworth pitched well but not well enough. He doesn’t have a win since being promoted to Memphis. Goold also talked about outfielder Jon Jay and Tyler Greene. Jason Motte could be added to the 40 man roster, and he could contribute. He has struck out one-third of the hitters he has faced this year.
LaRussa said you don’t look at the wild card standings till September, but Goold said that if the Cards aren’t careful the Marlins could leap frog them during this series.
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August 11
Carpenter Sent Back to St. Louis
Chris Carpenter will return to St. Louis on Tuesday. He will see Dr. George Paletta tomorrow for an evaluation of the injury that caused him to be removed from last night's game.
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August 11
Cards Injury Discussion
Injury specialist Will Carroll of The Baseball Prospectus, joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 to talk about Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright’s injuries.
Will was optimistic about Carpenter’s injury, and he said the fact that they couldn’t reproduce the pain is very good. Will thinks that it could’ve been a lot worse.
Bernie said that when he was in the clubhouse in Chicago last night, he saw Carpenter reach up to get something out of his locker with his right arm, and he didn’t look affected.
The rehab of Tommy John surgery has improved so much in the past few years it seems like guys are being rushed back, but the rehab process is just better than in the past.
As the guys were talking, word came down that Carpenter was being sent back to St. Louis for further evaluation on his sprain before he pitches again.
The thing that concerns Will about Adam Wainwright is his command. The finger is either healed or it isn’t; so he doesn’t know why the Cards keep debating whether he will come back in the bullpen or in the rotation.
It’s really hard to know what is really going on without being in the shoulder, but it does seem like it is the end of the line for Mark Mulder.
Will believes that if players use a certain type of batting glove and other simple protective devices----such as maybe a shin guard or updated helmets, injuries can be avoided.
The guys also touched on Scott Rolen’s persistent injury, Carlos Lee, Rocco Baldelli coming back for the Tampa Bay Rays, and Joba Chamberlain.
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August 10
Carpenter Leaves Game Injured
Chris Carpenter left his third start of the season Sunday night against the Cubs in the 6th inning with a right triceps strain.
He had thrown 66 pitches, 40 of which were strikes, when he was removed. He had given up four runs (two earned) on six hits with two walks and two strikeouts.
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August 9
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- RICK ANKIEL - Lower Abdominal Strain - Is improving and his playing status remains day-to-day. He pinch hit in yesterday's game at Chicago.
- BRIAN BARTON - Right Wrist Fracture - Is currently on injury rehab assignment with Memphis.
- CHRIS DUNCAN - Cervical Disc Surgery - Is recovering from cervical disc replacement.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Surgery - He is progressing in his rehabilitation.
- JOSH KINNEY - Right Elbow Surgery - Is scheduled to begin his rehab throwing program again on Monday.
- MARK MULDER - Left Shoulder Strain - He is on prescribed rest until at least mid-August.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - Threw a 27-pitch rehab assignment last night for Memphis (AAA) and is scheduled to pitch again on Monday for Memphis.
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August 7
Wainwright's Rehab Starts Friday
Adam Wainwright will begin his rehab with a start Friday night for triple-A Memphis. He will be held to a lower pitch count than normal, which indicates that the Cardinals are leaning towards bringing him back as a reliever.
Once he has completed his first outing, the right-hander will be used every two to three games after that, and there is speculation that he may not need much time in the minors before he is recalled by the Cardinals.
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August 7
Perez Records Save; Pujols Grand Slam
Chris Perez recorded the final five outs for his first save of his career after being recalled from triple-A Memphis Wednesday in the Cardinals 9-6 win over the Dodgers.
Albert Pujols went 4-4 with a grand slam, and Ryan Ludwick homered in Joel Pineiro's fourth win of the season.
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August 6
Cards Update with Strauss
Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon live from Busch Stadium.
Joe said that Chris Perez got a call last night around 2am when he was in Sacramento with the Memphis Redbirds to get here today.
The bullpen is really shot today so it seems that Perez will get a shot here to close if for nothing else to hold the fort till Wainwright would be ready.
Joe heard that Perez has been pitching better recently, and there isn’t a better time than now to have him close, but it comes down to Tony giving him the ball. Joe thinks Perez being called up was because of last night even though the club is trying to spin it otherwise.
Kyle McClellan has been good in the role he has and maybe there is some reluctance to change his role. He has never saved a game at any level, and maybe he is an option, but if it gets to that point, they are in deep doo doo.
Joe said that he thinks Ryan Ludwick should be given the credit he deserves and he should bat in the clean-up spot. It will be interesting if the club steps up and commits to him financially at the end of the year because he will be arbitration eligible for the first time.
Felipe Lopez will play in left field tonight, and Joe thinks it will be a case by case basis. He had been a disappointment at the plate earlier this year, but there is low risk involved, and he has a veteran experience, so the timing and price made sense to try him out. Joe thinks Lopez will be played at shortstop at some point because they need to get some offense from that position.
Rick Ankiel is 75% today, but the team wants him to be 100% before he is going to start because of how he plays the game. Joe thinks that he will be back in 4 or 5 days.
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August 6
Joe Torre Talks Ball
Dodgers Manager Joe Torre joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
The guys wondered where Joe went out to eat Monday night, and he said he didn’t have a choice because Bob Gibson told him they were going to Paul Manno’s. Joe said he never tried to tell Gibby to throw a slider when he wanted to throw a fastball.
Joe said he loves St. Louis because the people are so nice. “You can talk about the weather or restaurants, but a city is all about the people.”
The biggest adjustment going back to the West Coast is that his daughter is 12 years old now, and she had lived in New York her whole life. Joe said he was happy to make a change and happy to get away from a place he had been for 12 years.
Compared to New York, Los Angeles is more laid back, but winning is just as important. It is a comfortable feeling out there, with the weather contributing to that.
Joe said that the Dodgers’ pitching has been great this year. It’s really a shame that we’ve wasted good pitching because we haven’t been scoring runs with our hitting, but Manny should help with that. Joe said he learned in New York pitching is what wins in the long run, and that the deeper pitching won out against the Red Sox till they beefed up their pitching in the last few years.
Torre said he has managed a number of All-Star games with Manny, and he is one of the best 3-4 hitters the game has known here in the past number of years. Both need to find out how each other are on a regular basis, but so far this first week has been great.
Manny said he wants to be treated like everyone else so Joe asked him how important it is for him to have his long hair. Joe asked if he would clean it up and Manny said no problem. When the team gets back to LA, he is supposed to get it tended to even though the fans have fallen in love with the whole package.
It was a little upsetting for me to see the ballpark of my youth as a hole in the ground, but Joe said the new Busch Stadium is spectacular and there’s personality to it. There’s a lot of warmth to it.
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August 6
Could K-Rod Close for Cards Next Year?
Stan McNeal of The Sporting News joined Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon. Stan wrote a feature this week on free agent-to-be Francisco Rodriguez, who will be the premiere closer on the market after this season.
After another blown save last night by Jason Isringhausen, the guys discuss the possibility of the Cardinals going after Rodriguez.
The scouts that Stan talked to and they said that anytime someone loses velocity at 26 years old it is a concern, but Rodriguez claims that his loss of velocity is by design and that he added a changeup. He said he can still throw hard when he wants to.
It’s hard to say if Rodriguez is going to still be a top closer in the future because other top closers didn’t even start closing games till his age, but since he has been doing it for so long, there is reason for concern with his loss of velocity.
Stan there are a lot of teams who could use a closer next year so there might be a big market for Rodriguez. He said he thinks it is 50/50 at best that he returns to Anaheim, and K-Rod has said that to him it doesn’t matter what team he is on.
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August 6
Memphis Redbirds Update
Clayton Mortensen goes to the hill
trying to deliver a series split for the Redbirds today.
Mortensen took a no decision in his last outing at Fresno.
The right-hander gave up three runs on seven hits with
five strikeouts over five innings. He has not lost a game
on the road since July 9 at New Orleans.
Keith Foulke makes the start for the River Cats. Foulke is scheduled to pitch one inning and be followed by right-hander Brad Knox. Foulke makes his third appearance for Sacramento and has allowed three runs in three innings. Knox gave up one run on eight hits over seven innings in a start against Nashville on Saturday.
Jason Motte struck out two in his one inning of work last night bringing his total to 15 over his last five outings (6.1 IP). The former catcher has 95 strikeouts this season, which ranks one behind starter P.J. Walters (96).
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August 6
Cards to Likely Bring Up Pitcher
Tim McKernan reported on The Morning After on Team 1380 that John Mozeliak confirmed that the Cardinals will bring a pitcher up to the major league team today.
The guys speculated that it would be Chris Perez, and agreed that he may be tried in the closer role.
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August 6
Cards Sign Lopez; Option Ryan
The St. Louis Cardinals announced Tuesday evening that they have signed free-agent infielder Felipe Lopez to a Major League contract. Lopez, 28, was recently released by the Washington Nationals.
The switch-hitting Lopez was batting .234 with 2 homers, 20 doubles and 25 RBI for the Nationals in 100 games this season. He started 69 games at second base, 7 at shortstop and 6 in left field this season. He played his final game for the Nationals on July 31, delivering a pinch-hit double.
Lopez’ six-year Major League career has included stops with Toronto (2001-02), Cincinnati (2003-2006) and Washington (2006-2008). He has compiled a lifetime .256 batting average, collecting 67 homers, 313 RBI and 105 stolen bases in 830 games.
Lopez was named to the National League All-Star team in 2005 and batted .291 with 23 homers, 34 doubles and 85 RBI that season, earning N.L. Silver Slugger honors at shortstop.
A native of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Lopez was selected in the 1st round (8th player overall) of the 1998 draft by Toronto out of Lake Brantley (Fla.) High School.
Brendan Ryan was optioned to triple-A Memphis to make room on the roster.
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August 5
Wainwright to Start Rehab Saturday
Adam Wainwright will start a rehab assignment Saturday, but it is undetermined which level of the minors he will pitch.
He threw a 35 pitch simulated game to Nick Stavinoha and Rick Ankiel, who hit a home run, this afternoon at Busch Stadium.
Wainwright will not throw a bullpen over the next 3 days, but he will work on his mechanics.
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August 5
Charley Steiner Previews Dodgers
Charley Steiner, who broadcasts Dodgers games on TV and radio, joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday.
Manny Ramirez wanted out of Boston the last five years. The city of Boston is small, the stadium is small, the clubhouse is small, and he felt like he was enclosed in a fishbowl.
Joe Torre had asked Manny to cut his dreadlocks, but at the end of the day, Steiner doesn’t think it is too big of a deal, especially if he keeps hitting like he has since the trade.
The Dodgers really have a bright outlook since they have one of the best pitching staffs in the league, and they will have 8 great hitters once Nomar Garciaparra gets off the DL.
Andruw Jones is hitting around .160, and he is having something like the fourth worst season season by a position player since the deadball era.
Los Angeles is a Dodgers town, just like Chicago is a Cubs town and New York is a Yankees town.
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August 5
Cards All-Star Logo Revealed
The official logo of the 80th All-Star Game was unveiled Tuesday afternoon by Major League Baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals and the City of St. Louis.
The game, which will be played at Busch Stadium on July 14, 2009, will be the fifth All-Star Game hosted by St. Louis.
Previous St. Louis All-Star Games were played in 1940 and 1948 at Sportsman's Park, in 1957 at Busch Stadium (the renamed Sportsman's Park) and in 1966 during the inaugural season of Busch Memorial Stadium.
"Major League Baseball is very excited about bringing the 80th All-Star Game to St. Louis," said Bob DuPuy, MLB president and chief operating officer. "More than 250,000 fans will get to experience All-Star Week here in St. Louis."
The official logo of the 2009 All-Star Game features the classic St. Louis Cardinal perched on a baseball bat beneath the iconic Gateway Arch.
"The St. Louis Cardinals are proud to host next summer's All-Star Game," said Cardinals Chairman and CEO William DeWitt, Jr. "This will be a great opportunity to showcase our wonderful ballpark, build upon the rich history of baseball in St. Louis and allow our fans, the best fans in all of baseball, to enjoy the great celebration of baseball that the Midsummer Classic embodies."
St. Louis mayor Francis Slay said: "Major League Baseball hit a home run in selecting St. Louis to host next summer's All-Star Game. This is an opportunity for St. Louis to showcase what we have. I'm here to guarantee you that this will be the best All-Star Game you've ever seen."
County executive Charlie Dooley said: "They call Missouri the Show Me State and St. Louis the Gateway to the West. In 2009, we will become the Watch Me State. We're going to make this something you'll remember the rest of your lives."
The last All-Star Game played in St. Louis 43 years ago was a classic, started by the Tigers' Denny McLain and the Dodgers' Sandy Koufax. Maury Wills' 10th-inning single delivered a 2-1 win for the National League on a day when the temperature reached 105.
The American League triumphed, 6-5, in 1957 and 5-2 in 1948. The 1948 game featured a home run by the Cardinals' Stan Musial. The first All-Star Game in St. Louis was a 4-0 NL win at Sportsman's Park in 1940.
Official All-Star Game merchandise went on sale Tuesday at stlcardinals.com and the team store at Busch Stadium, which will be the exclusive outlet in St. Louis for the next five days.
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August 4
Kozma Promoted to High-A
2007 first round pick Pete
Kozma was promoted to Single-A Palm Beach
today.
The shortstop was hitting .284 with a team-best 58 runs scored for Quad Cities.
Kozma is rated as the No. 7 prospect in the Cardinals organization.
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August 4
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS DUNCAN - Underwent successful cervical disc replacement surgery today. The surgery was performed by Dr. Daniel Riew. It is anticipated that he will be released from the hospital tomorrow. The estimated recovery time is approximately 3 to 4 months.
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August 4
Roundtable Cards Talk with Strauss
Post-Dispatch Cards beat writer Joe Strauss and Martin Kilcoyne joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon.
Joe said that he was told over the weekend not to write that Chris Duncan was going to have surgery, and Joe asked Chris when he knew he was going to need surgery and he said last Monday. So Joe said that you can't trust what anyone with the Cardinals say about injuries.
The credibility of the organization is in question, and Joe wonders when ownership will step in.
Strauss brought up Adam Wainwright's finger injury as a good example of the organization down playing how serious the injury really was.
Listen to Segment 1
In the second segment, Strauss said that last night's game proved that the team needed to get a bat before the trade deadline.
They talked about the minor league prospects in the Cards' organization likely being overvalued by the front office because as different guys are brought up, they aren't necessarily excelling.
Joe said if they hang on to all of these guys, some of them will be exposed so the trick is to figure out who would be the best to trade while their value is high because they probably won't pan out in the big leagues.
The guys also discussed the passing of Atlanta Braves' broadcaster Skip Carey.
Listen to Segment 2
In the third segment, the guys took some calls and talked about Toronto's relief pitcher Scott Downs, stories of Skip Carey, and the Springfield Cardinals closer Fernando Salas.
Joe said if Wainwright seriously has to close for this team when he comes back, the Cards have no shot. If Izzy can't close, the club will have to consider designating him.
Listen to Segment 3
Joe Strauss stayed for a fouth segment, and the guys talked about who will get sent down when Brian Barton comes off the DL.
Strauss thinks that Chris Perez won't be back with the big league club until September 1, and since he is no longer going to the Oympics, there is a decent chance that Colby Rasmus will be up in St. Louis if he is healthy.
Listen to Segment 4
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August 4
Ludwick Player of Week
All-Star outfielder Ryan Ludwick of the St. Louis Cardinals has been named the National League Player of the Week for July 28-August 3, 2008. Ludwick led the N.L. with a .538 (14-for-26) batting average, 14 hits, a .613 on-base percentage, eight RBI and 27 total bases.
The thirty-year-old right fielder hit four home runs, added a double, scored seven runs, and recorded a 1.038 slugging percentage. The 2008 National League All-Star went 4-for-4 vs. Philadelphia on August 1st, including two home runs. It was his fourth career four-hit game, all this season, and his fifth career multi-home run game (third this season).
Ryan also homered on August 2nd and August 3rd vs. Philadelphia, giving him home runs in three consecutive games, marking the fourth time this season that he has homered in at least three straight games. The UNLV product collected at least one hit in each of his seven games, including one four-hit game, one three-hit game and a pair of two-hit games. In addition, Ludwick (.306, 27 HR, 78 RBI) had at least one RBI in six of the seven games. This is Ryan’s first weekly award.
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August 4
St. Louis All-Star Logo to be Revealed
Major League Baseball, the St. Louis Cardinals and the City of St. Louis will hold a press conference on Tuesday to unveil the official logo of the 2009 All-Star Game.
The 2009 All-Star Game logo unveiling press conference will be streamed live
on MLB.com and stlcardinals.com.
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August 4
Duncan to have Surgery Today
Chris Duncan will undergo surgery on a herniated disc in his neck that has never been performed on an athlete today at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
The 6-foot-5, 230-pounder is likely done for the rest of the season. was placed on the disabled list on July 23rd with the injury.
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August 2
Cards Release Clement
The St. Louis Cardinals today gave RHP Matt Clement his unconditional release from Memphis (AAA), reducing the team’s roster to 39 players.
Clement, 33, was most recently pitching for Memphis, where he was 1-0 with a 4.61 ERA in 12 games.
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August 1
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- RICK ANKIEL - Lower Abdominal Strain - Was examined today by Cardinals' Medical Staff. MRI and evaluation confirms a lower abdominal strain. He will continue to workout as tolerated and his playing status remains day-to-day.
- BRIAN BARTON - Right Wrist Fracture - Is currently on injury rehab assignment with Memphis.
- CHRIS CARPENTER - Right Elbow Surgery - Was activated off the disabled on Wednesday. Will take his normal turn in the rotation on Tuesday against Los Angeles.
- CHRIS DUNCAN - Herniated Disc - Will undergo surgery on Monday to relieve a herniated disc in his neck.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Surgery - He is progressing in his rehabilitation.
- JOSH KINNEY - Right Elbow Surgery - Has slowed his throwing program after experiencing elbow discomfort.
- MARK MULDER - Left Shoulder Strain - He is on prescribed rest for at least an additional two weeks.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - He is scheduled to throw a full intensity bullpen session tomorrow and then plans on throwing a simulated game on Tuesday.
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August 1
Strauss Cards Update
Post-Dispatch Cards beat writer Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Friday afternoon.
Strauss talked about Chris Duncan's injury situation. Duncan has a herniated disc, which is worse than what was previously diagnosed as a bulging disc, and he might have to have surgery to be able to play again.
Jason Isringhausen is going to get a chance and how he does will dictate the Cards' chance of making the playoffs. Joe said that when Izzy came back healthy and was given a secondary role, it affected his pride.
The Cards next four series are against top teams---Phillies, Dodgers, Cubs, Marlins, and Joe said that those 13 games will show that the Cards are all in or not.
The guys also discussed Joe Mather's recent play, the lack of movement at the trading deadline, and they discussed the release of the top 25 poll ranking the top college football teams.
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August 1
Cards Recall Garcia
Prior to their game tonight, the St. Louis Cardinals optioned RHP Kelvin Jimenez to Memphis (AAA) and recalled LHP Jaime Garcia from Memphis.
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July 31
Mozeliak Interview on Trade Deadline
Cardinals General Manager John Mozeliak joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Thursday afternoon.
Bernie realized after the interview that he forgot to ask about any inquiries from teams interested in acquiring Kyle Lohse so he sent John a text asking him. John replied that some teams made a run, but he was never on the table.
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July 30
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- RICK ANKIEL - Low Abdominal Strain - Condition is improving and he is experiencing less discomfort. He pinch-hit yesterday and is currently day-to-day.
- BRIAN BARTON - Right Wrist Fracture - Is currently on injury rehab assignment with Memphis.
- CHRIS CARPENTER - Right Elbow Surgery - Was activated off the disabled list today and will start tonight's game in Atlanta.
- CHRIS DUNCAN - disc bulge neck - He has been prescribed total rest and will be re-examined later this week.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Surgery - He is progressing in his rehabilitation.
- JOSH KINNEY - Right Elbow Surgery - Has slowed his throwing program after experiencing elbow discomfort.
- MARK MULDER - Left Shoulder Strain - He was examined on Monday by Dr. Lew Yocum and was advised to extend his period of rest for at least an additional two weeks.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - Will throw breaking balls only in bullpen session on Thursday, July 31 and is scheduled to throw regular bullpen session on Saturday, Aug. 2. Plan is to begin throwing to hitters early next week.
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July 30
Cards Update from Atlanta
Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 live from Atlanta Wednesday afternoon.
Joe Strauss said if you want to play conspiracy theory, the Cardinals only have one lefthander in the bullpen right now after optioning Randy Flores so the Cards may pick one up tonight or tomorrow--specifically Will Ohman, who may just walk across the diamond to the other team.
Strauss thinks Jason Bay would be an improvement in the four hole over Ryan Ludwick because he is a multi-time All-Star, and has more recognition across the league. Pittsburgh apparently wants a shortstop and a righthanded starting pitcher so Joe doesn't think anything is going to happen with them.
Joe doesn't think the Cards will part with Chris Perez for anything short of a blockbuster deal because no one denies his talent and potential. Closers are very expensive so the team sees him as a big plus.
The club would say there is a 25% chance that they would make a move by this time tomorrow, but Strauss said he thinks it is more like 75% that they will make a move.
A lot of people have yet to give Mozeliak credit for what he has done so far including trading Scott Rolen for Troy Glaus, so dismissing this front office as not knowing anything is severe. However, Joe sees how people can criticize them if they don't do anything here. It may show how many people have a say in what happens or if one voice can get something done.
Joe said it is hard to overstate how important Chris Carpenter coming back is to the team.
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July 30
Flores Sent Down
The St. Louis Cardinals optioned LHP Randy Flores to Memphis (AAA) before their game in Atlanta this evening and reinstated RHP Chris Carpenter from the disabled list.
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July 30
Report: Cardinals Looking at Bay
As reported on The Roll Home on Team 1380, Derrick Goold talked to Pittsburgh Pirate beat writer Dejan Kovacevic who said that Jason Bay is available, and the Pirate's asking price has dropped.
The Pirates are interested in pitching, and Kovacevic said in a blog this afternoon that he has heard the Pirates would likely be able to have the pitching prospect of their choice from the Cardinals.
Colby Rasmus is absolutely not available, and Kovacevic said that the Pirates "would prefer to make a deal with Tampa Bay, as it will be quality rather than quantity that they want in return for Bay, their biggest trading chip in years."
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July 30
Carpenter Starts Tonight
Chris Carpenter will make his first big league start since Opening Night of 2007 tonight in Atlanta.
The Cardinals ace experienced pain in his right elbow during that start and had to undergo ligament replacement surgery on the joint and go a long rehab stint.
He is expected to throw 70 plus pitches this evening against the Braves.
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July 29
Wainwright's Rehab Pushed Back
Wainwright threw 65 pitches today in a bullpen session, but wasn't 100%, so he will throw another bullpen session Thursday in Atlanta. He will then be re-evaluated before starting any rehab assignment.
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July 29
Cards' Minor Leaguers Suspended
Three Dominican Summer League players have been suspended 50 games each by Major League Baseball for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.
Braulin Beltre, a pitcher, and Andreas Beras, an outfielder, tested positive for a metabolite of Boldenone. Yedilson Pena, also a pitcher, tested positive for metabolites of Stanozolol.
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July 28
Isringhausen Back as Closer
According to Matthew Leach of StlCardinals.com, Jason Isringhausen will once again take on the closing duties for the Cardinals.
Pitching coach Dave Duncan said Monday that he thinks Izzy has started to regain his old form, and he believes he can go out there and save games.
Ryan Franklin, who became the closer when Izzy was on the disabled list earlier this
season, will go back to a setup role.
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July 28
Baseball Talk with Keith Law
ESPN.com's Keith Law joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon.
Keith Law thinks there are just too many weak points on the Cardinals' roster right now so he thinks it would be best to get a couple bats before the trade deadline instead of the best bat out there.
You usually can't solve a bullpen with one guy so Keith said that the Cards would be better served to get 2 or 3 reliable guys to put in the pen.
If Adam Wainwright is physically able to start, he should start because that is where is most useful, and if you put him in the bullpen this year, you take away from 2009 and 2010. The Cardinals should be very strong next year with Colby Rasmus and a healthy Chris Carpenter and Wainwright so they shouldn't hurt his starting ability next year by moving him to the bullpen this season.
Chris Perez would be a very valuable trade piece if the Cardinals wanted to trade him, and he isn't a typical Dave Duncan pitcher because he doesn't sink the ball. Bernie thinks it would be a good idea to trade him if he isn't good enough to close this year for Duncan because of the other options they have used who aren't working.
Law said that pitchers coming off Tommy John surgery sometimes need a half to full season to recover so Carpenter may not look like he used to at first, but he should get better as time goes on.
Keith is at Fenway Park in Boston to watch the Red Sox play the Angels play tonight. Law doesn't think the Angels are as good as the top 3 AL East teams or the White Sox because they aren't patient enough at the plate.
Francisco Rodriguez's fastball has slipped in speed, and he's not going to get as many strikeouts as he used to. He is throwing more sliders than ever, which puts more pressure on his elbow, so Keith said he thinks K-Rod may be injury prone in the near future.
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July 28
Stavinoha Recalled from Memphis
Nick Stavinoha has been recalled from Memphis and is with the team in Atlanta. Mitchell Boggs was sent down to make room for Stavinoha.
The Braves' Chipper Jones and Tim Hudson have been placed on the DL.
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July 27
Carpenter to Start Wed @ Atlanta
Tony LaRussa announced that Chris Carpenter will make his major league return Wednesday at Atlanta if his bullpen session Sunday in St. Louis goes well.
Carpenter was happy with his second rehab start Friday night in Memphis so the Cardinals are looking to bring him back as soon as possible.
Carpenter hasn't started in the major leagues since opening night 2007.
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July 26
Reyes Traded to Indians
The St. Louis Cardinals today announced that they have completed a
trade with the Cleveland Indians, swapping Memphis (AAA) pitcher Anthony Reyes in exchange for Akron
(AA) right-handed reliever Luis Perdomo and cash.
Perdomo, 24, was named to the Class-A Carolina League All-Star team this year after posting a 3-1 mark with a 0.92 ERA and 18 saves for Kinston. He was 2-0 with a 3.52 ERA in 9 games with Akron (AA) of the Eastern League and has combined to go 5-1 with a 1.66 ERA, 19 saves and 60 strikeouts in 54.1 innings pitched this season.
“I think everyone agreed that a change of scenery was probably best for Anthony,” said Cardinals Vice President/General Manager John Mozeliak. “Hopefully this will benefit him and it allows us to add depth to our minor league system, as we not only remain focused on the Major League team, but continue to look to the future.”
Signed by the Indians as an non-drafted free agent out of the San Cristobal Dominican Republic in 2003, Perdomo spent three seasons with the Indians DSL team before advancing to the GCL Indians in 2006, where he finished 2nd in the league with 9 saves, fanning 29 batters in 20 innings. He was 4-6 with a 3.27 ERA and 10 saves in 56 games for Lake County of the South Atlantic League in 2007.
The 6-0, 170-pound Perdomo will be assigned to the Springfield Cardinals (AA) roster.
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July 25
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- BRIAN BARTON - Right Wrist Fracture - Is currently on injury rehab assignment with Memphis.
- CHRIS CARPENTER - Right Elbow Surgery - He is scheduled to pitch in rehab assignment at Memphis (AAA) tonight.
- CHRIS DUNCAN - disc bulge neck - He has been prescribed total rest and will be re-examined late next week.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Elbow Surgery - He is progressing in his rehabilitation.
- JOSH KINNEY - Right Elbow Surgery - Is throwing batting practice today.
- MARK MULDER - Left Shoulder Strain - He is on prescribed two weeks rest and will then be re-evaluated.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - He is scheduled to throw a bullpen tomorrow.
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July 25
Preview from Memphis of Carpenter
FSN Midwest’s Jim Hayes joined Randy Karraker on The Roll Home Friday afternoon from Memphis before Chris Carpenter’s rehab start with the Redbirds. Jim said they will catch up with Carpenter on FSN Midwest both in the pregame and postgame shows tonight.
Carpenter will be on a pitch count of around 70 to 80, and he expects to have better command this start because he was over-excited and over-competitive in his first rehab start in Springfield. He said he wants to treat tonight like a regular season major league start.
Dave Duncan said on the Morning After earlier this week, that if Chris has a good start tonight he could be back next week. Hayes said he thinks they listen to Carpenter because he is a realist. Chris knows where he is and knows what he has to do. He has that realistic streak in him so he won’t tell them he is ready to come back before he really is good to go.
The Cardinals game last night was almost surreal. Jim doesn’t think this is the beginning of the end for the Cardinals because all season long, just when you think they are done, they find a way to get back on track.
Jim believes that the Cardinals will make a move in the next few days to bolster the bullpen, even if it isn’t a big name.
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July 24
Minor League Roster Moves
Daryl Jones started in left field and went 0-3 with a walk Thursday night for the double-A Springfield Cardinals, after being called up to replace Cody Haerther.
Haerther was called back up to triple-A Memphis to replace the injured Colby Rasmus.
Jones was selected by the Cardinals out of Spring H.S. (Texas) in the 3rd round (No. 110 overall) of the June 2005 First-Year Player Draft.
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July 24
Carp to Return Soon?
Cardinals starter Chris Carpenter speculated yesterday that he'd probably need two more minor league appearances before returning to the majors, but could return earlier if he has an impressive outing Friday at Memphis.
His next contest after Friday's rehab start could come either with the Cardinals in Atlanta next Wednesday or more likely for Double-A Springfield when they play at Arkansas.
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July 24
Cards Scouting Burnett, Sherrill
The Cardinals were among an estimated 15 teams that assigned scouts to watch A.J. Burnett's start with the Blue Jays last night against the Baltimore Orioles.
Burnett allowed one run on six hits while striking out seven and not walking a batter through five innings in a no decision as the Jays beat the O's 2-1. The Birds are also among the clubs pursuing Orioles left-handed closer George Sherrill.
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July 23
Cardinals President Talks Village
Cardinals President Bill DeWitt III joined the Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Bill said he is very happy to have a deal in place for the Ballpark Village. He said it's been a long road, but hopefully all the delays will be forgotten once people see the progress made over the next year.
Bill said the first phase will include retail and office space with a 15 story office tower. He hopes the retail space will generate buzz and activities downtown, and there is a hotel component as an option for phase one.
They have plans for something called the "Cardinals Experience" with the Cardinals Hall of Fame along with a Cards themed restaurant, with seating decks that come off the roof like buildings around Wrigley Field.
Bill said that tenants will be announced in the coming months.
They will probably get some preliminary site work done soon, and Bill anticipates a lot of the site under construction by the All-Star game next year. Regardless of the state of construction, Bill said that he thinks they will have something to be proud of and they will be able to do some of the unique events that took place this year in New York around the stadium.
Bill said that they had been working to get this deal in place for more than a decade.
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July 23
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- COLBY RASMUS – Left Knee Sprain – Underwent MRI exam today that revealed a Grade I MCL sprain of his left knee. He will likely be held out of game action for the next month and will not participate with Team USA in the upcoming Olympic Games.
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July 23
Ballpark Village Development Agreement
The St. Louis Cardinals, The Cordish Company and the Honorable Francis Slay, Mayor of the City of St. Louis, today announced that an agreement has been reached to proceed with the development of Ballpark Village, a world-class entertainment and lifestyle development planned north of the new Busch Stadium in downtown St. Louis.
Ballpark Village will transform multiple blocks of downtown St. Louis into one of the premiere mixed-use developments in the United States, acting as an important catalyst for the continued revitalization of downtown St. Louis.
“This is an exciting day for the St. Louis Cardinals organization, our fans, and for the city of St. Louis,” said Bill DeWitt III, president of the St. Louis Cardinals.
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July 22
Duncan to DL; Mather Recalled
Prior to their game tonight, the St. Louis Cardinals placed outfielder Chris Duncan (bulging disk/neck) on the 15-Day disabled list and recalled outfielder Joe Mather from Memphis (AAA).
Mather will be in uniform for tonight's game against Milwaukee.
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July 22
Joe Strauss Cardinals Roundtable
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss joined Randy Karraker and Joe Zydlo on The Roll Home on Team 1380 at Fairmount Park Tuesday afternoon.
Joe thinks AJ Burnett will be moved before the deadline, and he thinks the Cardinals are in the running for him.
Joe has not heard Huston Street mentioned specifically, but if they could solidify the closer role for the next few seasons, Joe thinks they will look at him.
The guys then talked some college football, Strauss is a big fan of the SEC.
Listen to Part 1
The guys started out the second segment talking about the Cards sweeping the Padres, and beating up on the Pirates, but that is a big difference than beating up on the Brewers. However, the Cards did beat Jake Peavy and Greg Maddux.
They threw around the possibility of Milwaukee making more trades, and discussed Houston trading for Randy Wolf.
Strauss thinks there will be a scramble for relievers once Fuentes gets traded. He said if you are just purely looking at this year, Fuentes would be the guy to go after, especially because you don't want to have to use Adam Wainwright in the bullpen.
Joe said that he thinks Burnett would like to play in St. Louis, but since Kyle Lohse is going to be seeking Carlos Silva money, Burnett might try to opt out of his contract to see what kind of money he could get.
Strauss said he doesn't think the Cardinals can hold open a spot in the rotation next year for any of the minor league pitchers at this point.
Tony LaRussa and Dave Duncan are on a shorter timetable to win than John Mozeliak is so they are looking at things differently.
Joe thinks that Jaime Garcia could bring Fuentes in a trade, but he doesn't think the team should do that because of the upside Garcia has because they would only have Fuentes for a few months.
Listen to Part 2
The guys start the third segment talking about CC Sabathia, and Ryan Franklin's performance as the Cardinals' closer.
The guys take calls and answer quesitons about Albert Pujols' production, possible trades, HBO shows, and minor league pitcher Jess Todd.
Joe said he believes Jess Todd will be bumped up to the Memphis squad pretty soon. He starts tomorrow in Springfield, but that might be his last one at the double-A level.
Ryan Ludwick usually gets a day off every 4 or 5 games against a solid right-hander, and Tony thought the match-up last night was better for Chris Duncan.
Listen to Part 3
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July 22
Carpenter Back After Next Rehab Start?
Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan said on The Morning After on Team 1380 Tuesday morning that Chris Carpenter is feeling great physically and his conditioning is there so he will likely be back in the majors before Adam Wainwright.
Dave said that Carpenter will probably throw between 85-90 pitches in his next outing, and Dave said that Carp could be back as soon as after his next start if everything goes well. He doesn’t expect Chris to need more than 3 total starts in rehab.
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July 21
Strauss: Carp at 50-60% Last Night
Joe Strauss joined Randy Karraker and Andy Strickland on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon.
Chris Carpenter has gone through these injuries before, and he looked 50-60% last night---giving up 4 walks and laboring against sub-standard hitting. His velocity isn't bad for where he is in his rehab, but he still has a way to go, and Strauss applauded him for admitting where he is in the process.
John Mozeliak said he will be evaluated start to start, and Joe said based on last night, he should have at least 2 or 3 more starts in the minors.
Strauss jokingly said that Colby Rasmus is no TJ Oshie, but he has potential to be what Jason Bay was at his prime. Joe said that he has heard Rasmus won't be called up after he gets back from the Olympics, but we'll just have to wait and see what happens.
Joe said that there have been times this year when Ryan Ludwick has been exposed and after a few days off he gets back into a groove, and he said that people who complain about him not playing aren't necessarily valid in their complaints because Tony does such a great job finding favorable match-ups.
"This is a team that is overacheiving, and they are overachieving because guys like Ludwick, Aaron Miles, and Skip Schumaker are being put in favorable situations."
Joe thinks that whenever Ryan Franklin is available he will get the opportunity for saves. Izzy is frustrated at the situation and his performance, and he hinted at leaving the door open for a trade. Izzy has done a lot for this organization, but Joe doesn't think that this organization trusts him to be thier closer.
The guys also talked about the schedule the rest of the way among other topics.
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July 21
Garcia Optioned, Boggs Recalled
The St. Louis Cardinals have optioned left-handed pitcher Jaime Garcia to Memphis (AAA) today and recalled right-handed pitcher Mitchell Boggs from the Memphis Roster.
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July 19
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- BRIAN BARTON – Right Wrist Fracture – He continues to heal and will be re-evaluated next week.
- CHRIS CARPENTER – Right Elbow Surgery – He is scheduled to begin his rehab assignment at Double-A Springfield on Sunday.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Elbow Surgery – He is progressing in his rehabilitation.
- JOSH KINNEY – Right Elbow Surgery – He is scheduled to throw batting practice on Monday in Florida.
- MARK MULDER – Left Shoulder Strain – He has been is on prescribed two weeks rest and will then be re-evaluated.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT – Right Middle Finger Sprain – He is on a long toss program and is expected to begin throwing off the mound within the next week.
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July 18
Cards Roundtable Discussion
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss, and Fox Sports Midwest reporter Jim Hayes joined Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Friday for a few segments to talk about the Cardinals.
They started out talking about the closing situation and when the last time the fans were comfortable with the player filling that role in the 9th inning. Jason Isringhausen was a hot topic with Joe Strauss and Jim Hayes, and they discussed how good he is when he is healthy. Joe believes Izzy has had a better career with the Cardinals than anyone has with one team with the exception of Mariano Rivera and Trevor Hoffman.
Chris Perez was discussed with his demotion back to the minors as well as his role with this club in the future. Joe also talked about the Cardinals trying to change Perez’s mechanics and hopes they don’t try to do too much with him.
The guys talked about Rick Ankiel being a streaky hitter as well as Troy Glaus’ bat speed picking up along with his confidence.
Listen to Segment 1
Joe Strauss, Jim Hayes, and Randy Karraker started off their 2nd segment talking about the difficult conditions at the British Open as well as the Jack Nicklaus comments on today’s golfers being soft, with the exception of Tiger Woods. They also discussed their golf games and how much they each get to play.
The guys gave their opinions on the trade of Joe Blanton to Philadelphia and how much he will help the Phillies catch and keep par with the Chicago Cubs.
The Cardinals’ needs were discussed and the possibility of adding a bat or maybe even a lefty bullpen specialist. They talked about the availability and price of both Matt Holliday and Brian Fuentes, and Joe believes Fuentes will cost more than many are led to believe.
They believe that the amount of wins needed to reach the playoffs will be around 88 or 90.
The guys finished their time together talking about Ankiel, Ryan Ludwick, along with the problems the Cardinals have already overcome and the ones they still face.
Listen to Segment 2
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July 18
Plans Coming Together For Ballpark Village
According to the St. Louis Business Journal, St. Louis City officials and the Cordish Company have reportedly reached a deal to develop Ballpark Village.
The story claims that the deal will include a mixture of office, retail and entertainment space, but doesn't include residential space.
An announcement on the deal is expected next week.
Official Team Statement:
“Team ownership and club executives have read today’s story but, in fairness to the process and in respect to all parties involved, the St. Louis Cardinals will not address terms until an agreement is formally in place. Progress has indeed been made and the Cardinals are optimistic that a development agreement will soon be reached and announced.”
– Jim Woodcock, Spokesperson, St. Louis Cardinals
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July 18
Lohse Discusses Playing in St. Louis
Cardinals pitcher Kyle Lohse joined Martin Kilcoyne and Maurice Drummond on Team 1380 Friday afternoon.
Kyle said he really doesn't have superstitions, but he has to get his Starbucks on the way to the field and a sugar free Red Bull about an hour before he starts.
Lohse said he enjoys playing in St. Louis and is happy to be a Cardinal.
"It's a good environment for me to be in, and everything has worked out well," Lohse said.
Scott Boras is Kyle's agent, and they have a good working relationship. He said that Boras presents his options to him, and then it is up to Lohse. He said that if the Cardinals want to put something in front of him they can see if they can work it out, but Kyle doesn't want it to be a distraction.
"If we wait to the last month of the season and things continue going the way they have been, it doesn't make any sense to sign an extension." However, Kyle said he isn't putting any deadline on anything though.
"Dave Duncan has helped me a lot, and I'm seeing a lot of things I didn't see before. I'm preparing for games differently."
"I can't really describe how big of a factor (Duncan's) been, but he's been pretty huge," Lohse said.
One of the things this year that Kyle is happiest with this year is that he feels that he has the best command of all of his pitches before the game, and it seems like the game moves quickly.
Kyle doesn't try to put too much pressure on himself, but he enjoys pitching against the teams who passed up on him this past off season.
Lohse said he would've loved to go to the All-Star game, but he can't complain about it and he looks forward towards having a shot at the playoffs.
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July 17
Latest on Carpenter, Mulder, Wainwright
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that pitcher Chris Carpenter (right elbow “Tommy John” surgery) has been cleared to begin an injury rehabilitation assignment this coming Sunday, July 20 with the Springfield Cardinals (AA) when they host NW Arkansas.
In addition, the Cardinals announced that Mark Mulder (left shoulder) was seen today by Dr. Craig Morgan and will be examined tomorrow by Dr. James Andrews with results of both exams expected late tomorrow.
The team also announced that Adam Wainwright (right middle finger) is continuing his strengthening and light throwing program. The current best estimate is that Wainwright will begin throwing from the mound in the next week to 10 days.
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July 16
Cards Roundtable with Strauss
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday live in studio after the Cardinals' workout.
Joe updated the guys with the latest on Adam Wainwright's recovery, and there was no official news on Mark Mulder at today's workout. John Mozeliak was not in attendance so Joe wasn't able to talk to him.
Strauss said if there is a window to resign Kyle Lohse, it is closing and will probably be closed if the Cards don't at least approach him before the end of the month.
The guys also addressed Mitchell Boggs among other topics as they took a few calls for Strauss.
Listen to Part 1
There are a lot bigger problems on the team than at second base. Joe doesn't see the team getting a better bat than what they have so he thinks the team may get someone to help strengthen the bench.
The guys agree that the team could improve at short stop, but no one who can hit with pop will be available.
"You don't see that many impact players moved at the deadline anymore," Joe said.
Joe said someone who the Cardinals may be able to trade for would be Jarrod Washburn, who is in the 3rd year of a 4 year deal, if they can get some salary relief.
Strauss thinks the AJ Burnett talk is legitimate, but the Cards would want to make sure he wouldn't opt out of his contract at the end of the year.
The main question with Bryan Anderson is if he can be a every day catcher in the major leagues defensively.
The guys also discussed options for closer and took calls on many different trade options.
Listen to Part 2
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July 16
Dayn Perry Talks NL Central
Dayn Perry of Baseball Prospectus and FoxSports.com joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon to talk about the National League Central.
It's hard to say if Kyle Lohse is experiencing a one time surge or if he really is going to pitch this well in the years to come. Dave Duncan clearly helps guys change their careers, and if you look at his career stats he is comparably more like a Jason Marquis.
Tony LaRussa gets the best out of his team, and the Cardinals are better having LaRussa than any other manager.
The NL West is so weak that any of the teams could really take it. The Mets are Dayn's pick to win the East.
Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina are Dayn's favorite Cardinals to watch play. He likes how Yadi has developed his hitting.
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July 15
Joe Buck Previews All-Star Game
All-Star game broadcaster Joe Buck joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday hours before the game.
He told the guys that the pre-game introductions of countless hall of famers, including Yogi Berra, should prove to be memorable.
Buck also said serving as P.A. Announcer in the place of an ailing Bob Shepherd, the Yankees P.A. Announcer of 58 years, is a career highlight and an honor.
Buck discussed the difficulty of addressing and giving proper attention to each intriguing storyline within the game, such as the feel good stories of Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton and St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Ryan Ludwick, due to time constraints from good pitching.
He also said he was in favor of the winner of the All Star Game getting home field advantage in the World Series and the game meaning something, as opposed to the recent years when players jetted out after their at-bats.
He also said he would miss the electricity of Yankee Stadium, saying that of all the stadiums he has gone to, none equal its relentless buzz and the new Yankee Stadium will have a hard time duplicating the feel of this ballpark.
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July 15
Joe Sheehan Weekly Baseball Review
Baseball Prospectus joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
Sheehan joined the guys live from Yankee Stadium before the All-Star game. Joe said that he grew up in Yankee Stadium, and this is going to be a big night for him. He will be happy to see the Hall of Famers before the game and will enjoy watching the game in the House that Ruth built.
The guys tossed around different players that the Cardinals potentially could trade for including AJ Burnett, and Joe compared Burnett with Rich Harden.
Clearly the Cardinals are a conternder, but Joe doesn't think they are as good as the Cubs or Brewers.
Joe thinks it's ridiculous that no team is giving Barry Bonds a chance because there are so many other players who are tied to steroids, and Barry is still a very decent player.
"It has become a joke that Barry Bonds is not employed by a major league team," Joe said.
Joe thinks that the Braves can really make a run in the second half, and that the Dodgers are a lot better than they have played.
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July 14
Cardinals and the Big Picture
Summary by Badia Ead
Cardinals' beat writer Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon to discuss the Cardinals’ chances in the second half of the season.
Strauss said the Cardinals’ bullpen has been sending out red flags for some time now with an ERA of 5.65 in late innings compared to the league average, which is almost two runs lower.
A return from Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright could mean Todd Wellemeyer would return to the bullpen and serve as a long inning relief man.
Strauss mentioned Pirates outfielder Jason Bay as a potential trade acquisition, but said the Cardinals’ front office needed to determine which prospects they are willing to part with.
Strauss also said the Cardinals have a lot of work ahead of them, with the Mets, Phillies, and Brewers all vying for at least the wild card spot. He also said that despite struggling in the first half, the Mets are only one and a half games behind the Cardinals in the NL, and the series against the Mets in New York later this month is now significantly more important for both teams.
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July 11
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- COLBY RASMUS - Groin Strain - A sports hernia was ruled out and is getting treatment for a groin strain. Will rest and begin baseball activities on Thursday, 7/17, following the All-Star Break.
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July 10
Rasmus on Disabled List
Colby Rasmus
has been placed on the disabled list retroactive to Tuesday with a groin strain. The Cardinals top
prospect has not played since July 1, but club officials don't believe it is a serious injury.
Jaime Garcia was promoted to the Major League club earlier today, and those two roster opening enabled Gabe Johnson to be activated from the disabled list, and Matt Scherer to be transferred back to Memphis from Springfield---where he was sent down Tuesday. Johnson has not played since June 18.
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July 10
DeWitt III Discusses Ballpark Village
Cardinals President Bill DeWitt III joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
A lot of people from the Cardinals are preparing for the All-Star game next year in St. Louis, and they are shadowing their counterparts in New York this week.
The Fan Fest will take place in the Convention Center in the Dome, a huge VIP Party just south of the ballpark, and a tented sponsors village will be located on the proposed Ballpark Village site.
The one thing that Bill will promise is that it won't look like it does today. He can't say exactly what it will look like, but there is a business proposal that is scheduled to start construction January 1, 2009.
They would certainly try to avoid having cranes or visible construction during All-Star week, but they could put a banner up to cover stuff.
Season ticket holders will get a ticket to the game, but some may be asked to switch seats for the game.
Bill said that St. Louis is towards the top of the list of cities for different big events because the city has pulled off events in the past. The Sports Commission will have a hand in putting on the event, but MLB will have the main role in the All-Star events.
DeWitt said that he thinks they are in the fine-tuning stage of the ballpark this year. He doesn't anticipate any big changes next year, but they always have a list of projects.
Having the All-Star game helps keep up the base of season ticket holders, but it won't necessarily help boost the attendance at Busch Stadium.
The vision for Ballpark Village is a little different than originally proposed. They are shifting the residential phase back a little and have beefed up the office component because of the housing market.
Bill said the project is still as big and bold as they originally envisioned, and pretty soon they should be able to name names of companies who will be a part of Ballpark Village.
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July 10
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- BRIAN BARTON - Right Wrist Fracture - Follow-up studies revealed a small hairline fracture of his right pisiform bone. He is in Los Angeles resting his wrist. The injury is considered relatively minor. He will return to St. Louis after the All-Star break and it is anticipated that he will resume baseball activities in approximately one week.
- CHRIS CARPENTER - Right Elbow surgery - He threw a bullpen yesterday and is scheduled to throw a simulated game on Monday (7/14).
- RANDY FLORES - Left Ankle Peroneal Tendonitis - He is pitching tonight in Triple-A rehab Assignment.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left shoulder surgery - He is progressing well and it is anticipated that he will begin the initial stages of a rehab throwing program on August 1.
- JOSH KINNEY - Right Elbow Surgery - He is throwing off the mound and will progress his throwing to batting practice with anticipation to begin simulated games by August 1.
- MARK MULDER - Left Shoulder Strain - He will undergo an MRI on Friday and subsequent evaluation.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - He was cleared to start a light catch program on Monday. He played catch yesterday and felt great. He will continue his light throwing and will be re-evaluated after the All-Star break.
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July 10
Garcia Likely to be Promoted
According to Joe Strauss of the Post-Dispatch, the Cardinals will likely place Mark Mulder on the DL today and bring Jaime Garcia up from triple-A Memphis.
Mulder is scheduled to receive an MRI today in St. Louis.
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July 9
Mulder Leaves Game in First
Mark Mulder was taken out of the game Wednesday evening with left shoulder discomfort after facing only three batters. He will be re-evaluated tomorrow.
Tony LaRussa and trainer Barry Weinberg walked with Mulder to the dugout in the first inning after he struck out Jimmy Rollins but then walked the next two hitters on 8 pitches.
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July 9
Strauss: Tony Dropped Neutron Bomb
Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon after Tony LaRussa addressed the media in Philadelphia.
Joe said that Tony LaRussa "dropped a neutron bomb on the front office." Tony is upset that the Cubs and Brewers made trades to help immediately, but that the Cards are relying on Wainwright and Carpenter,
who won't be able to help till later in the season.
Strauss said that Tony wants a bat and lefthanded arm in the bullpen, and he doesn't want to wait. He wants to win and win now. Joe said he really turned up the heat on the front office, and Joe is going to have an article about it in the Post-Dispatch tomorrow.
Now that the Cardinals are in the race, the question becomes how they are going to get better.
Joe said he isn't surprised that Joe Mather hasn't had a start, and that he will probably play tomorrow and in Pittsburgh.
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July 9
John Mozeliak Discusses Cards
Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday.
John said that they need to stay patient, and they are not going to make moves that don't make any sense. He said when they get Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright back they should be in good shape.
Mozeliak said that if they have needs, they will address them, but it has to be at the right cost. John is thrilled that they are in the position they are in even though it is a tough one. It would have to be a very special deal to move one of the top minor league players.
John said that they are getting contributions from all the position players, but they may look at gaining something in the middle infield.
"There isn't one player out there who changes the dynamic of this club," John said.
John said they want to be in the race, and they want to win the race. They are going to do their due dilligence to get there.
Mozeliak said he thinks it might be best to wait till the end of the year to negotiate with Kyle Lohse.
John said he is nervous about Mark Mulder's start tonight, and if they can get 5 innings out of him it would be a huge accomplishment.
"I hope he can go out and deliver for us," John said.
Mozeliak said he would like to see what happens tonight before he makes a decision if Mark would get another start.
There is a chance that Colby Rasmus could be called up before September, but it all just depends on the needs of the big league club. John said they may not even need to bring him up at all so they "don't have to start his clock."
It is Tony LaRussa's decision if he wants to use Jason Isringhausen as the closer again anytime soon. John said it is his job to get the players and Tony's to play them the way he sees fit.
Lists exist right now of players who would be untouchable, and how the players rank.
It seems that in the past few years, less and less teams are willing to break up their clubs when it comes to trade deadline time.
John thinks that the Cardinals are capable of keeping up with the Cubs and Brewers, but if they see a way to improve the team, they are going to.
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July 9
Cubs Update after Trade
Chicago Cubs beat writer Gordon Wittenmyer joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday.
Gordon really likes the move that they made because the Cubs never had enough major league ready players to give the Indians and the Harden deal was in the works even before the Sabathia deal was finalized.
The only thing that could be a problem is that if Harden has another injury, which is the worst case scenario. They didn’t really have to give up a lot to get him. So it is a low risk high reward.
If he stays healthy Harden is one of the most dominating pitchers in the game. The Cubs are not going to make any big moves and probably won’t make any, but if they do, it would be something small. Since the Brewers traded for Sabathia the Cubs believe the Brewers are the team to watch out for, but said they would not write off the Cardinals.
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July 8
Sheehan Talks Baseball
Summary by Badia Ead
Joe Sheehan, of BaseballProspectus.com, talked baseball with Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home Tuesday on Team 1380.
He expressed his frustration at the start Mark Mulder is receiving tomorrow against the Philadelphia Phillies, saying Mulder was not physically ready to be a major league pitcher.
Sheehan said the Phillies were fortunate to be in the position they’re in now because they’ve gone the whole year using 12 pitchers, instead the new norm of 13. He believes they’ll have to start scoring more runs on a consistent basis to keep up with their unsteady bullpen.
Sheehan approved of the Brewers’ trade for C.C. Sabathia and said it would make them wild card favorites and at least put the heat on the Chicago Cubs. The team on the other end of that deal, Cleveland, is likely to bounce back next year.
Before the public announcement that the Cubs had traded for Oakland starting pitcher Rich Harden, Sheehan said an injury prone Harden was not worth trading away young talent for.
The guys also talked Minnesota Twins baseball and marveled at their ability to win without big name pitchers, such as Francisco Liriano, who is still rehabbing but should return soon. Sheehan said the pitchers were successful by pounding the strike zone. Their line-up, on the other hand, has room for improvement and could benefit from the addition of a position player like Adam Dunn or a hitter of his caliber. Still, Sheehan believes the Tigers have a better chance of catching up with the Chicago White Sox in that division.
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July 8
Dan Mac Cards Update
Summary by McClain Thompson
Cardinal broadcaster Dan McLaughlin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker from Philadelphia on the Roll Home Tuesday afternoon.
The guys discussed the Cardinals perplexing home record especially with their winning road record.
McLaughlin said there was a lot of buzz among Cardinal players today about the C.C. Sabathia trade to Milwaukee.
The three agreed Mark Mulder’s start Wednesday night will be the most intriguing start to date this season.
McLaughlin mentioned that injured starting pitcher Adam Wainwright will play catch in three days and then have three or four rehab assignments afterwards.
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July 7
Memphis Redbirds Update
Memphis Redbirds announcer Steve Selby previewed the game tonight in New Orleans on Team 1380 Monday evening.
Colby Rasmus has a slight groin pull that kept him out of the starting lineup tonight, but Steve said it shouldn't be anything too serious.
Anthony Reyes will get the start tonight, and Steve expects him to be on around a 70 pitch limit.
Steve said that Clayton Mortenson would be the guy to bring up if the Cardinals needed a spot pitcher because he has been performing better than Jaime Garcia, but it would come down to whether they wanted a right or left-hander.
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July 7
Strauss Talks Cards
Summary by McClain Thompson
Joe Strauss joined Randy Karraker and Bernie Miklasz on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon from the Lambert International tarmac on his way to catch the Cardinals in Philadelphia for Tuesday’s series opener with the Phillies.
The Cardinal Insider thinks the Brewers are now the second-best team in the division with starting pitcher C.C. Sabathia in their rotation, and Strauss doesn’t think Milwaukee GM Doug Melvin is done making adjustments. He thinks the Cardinals have overachieved to reach this point and now they need help from the front office.
He thinks the Cardinals have been aided by a favorable schedule through July and have avoided major injuries to their everyday players. The guys batted around several scenarios about when the Cardinals would become buyers or sellers, but Strauss said GM John Mozeliak has insisted several times that the Cardinals will not become sellers this season.
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July 7
Keith Law Discusses NL Central
Summary by McClain Thompson
Lead baseball analyst for Scouts, Inc. and ESPN contributor Keith Law stopped by the Roll Home Monday afternoon to talk with Randy and Bernie.
He doesn’t feel Cleveland got enough “up the middle” in the Sabathia deal with Milwaukee, and thinks the Brewers might now have the top pitcher in the National League. Law said there’s a good chance the Brewers will not be able to re-sign Sabathia and Ben Sheets in the off-season.
Law thinks the Cardinals will win 80-plus games this season, more than anyone expected. He thinks they can afford to give up their second-tier prospects, but need to protect the top-layer—Jaime Garcia and Colby Rasmus—for a one-year run.
Because the Cardinals draft relatively conservatively and tend to draft performance over tools, Law said the values of some of their prospects aren’t as high as the Cardinal organization might think. That said, Law thinks the “Cardinals best years are ahead of them”. It will be a better club in 2009 and 2010 when some of the top-shelf talent arrives from the majors.
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July 6
Mather Recalled; Izturis Activated
The St. Louis Cardinals made a number of roster moves prior to their Sunday game against the Chicago Cubs, adding rookie outfielder Joe Mather and infielder Cesar Izturis to the active roster. Both players were listed in the starting lineup for today’s series finale against the Cubs.
Mather was recalled from Memphis (AAA) and Izturis was activated from the 15-day disabled list (strained right hamstring).
Rookie pitcher Mitchell Boggs was optioned to Memphis (AAA) and rookie outfielder Brian Barton was placed on the 15-day disabled list (right wrist deep bone bruise).
Mather, 25, was batting .303 with a team-high 16 home runs and 38 RBI for Memphis this season. He appeared in 13 games for the Cardinals earlier this season, batting .229 with a homer and 3 RBI.
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July 5
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS CARPENTER – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery – He threw a bullpen yesterday and is scheduled to throw a 55-pitch simulated game on Monday, July 7.
- RANDY FLORES – Left Ankle Peroneal Tendinitis – Is scheduled to throw a bullpen tomorrow, and will then go on a rehab assignment to begin pitching on Tuesday, July 8.
- CESAR IZTURIS – Right Hamstring Strain – Is on the disabled list and progressing to field and full baseball activities.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Capsulitis – Had left shoulder surgery and is out for the year. Is currently rehabbing his left shoulder in Los Angeles.
- JOSH KINNEY – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - He is continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida and is progressing to bullpen throwing.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT – Right Middle Finger Sprain – He will be re-evaluated on Monday, July 7 to determine his return to pitching plan.
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July 4
Cards Agree to Terms with 6 Latin Players
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they have agreed to terms with six prospects from Latin America, all of whom became eligible to sign on July 2nd.
From the Dominican Republic:
- Third baseman Roberto De La Cruz (also known as Roberto Pina). Born in San Pedro de Macoris on 11/10/1991.
- Right handed pitcher Santo Franco. Born in Bani on 11/28/1991. 6-7, 190.
- Right handed pitcher Dennis Montero. Born in Hato Mayor on 11/20/1991. 6-1, 162.
- Shortstop Grabiel Hernandez. Born in San Pedro de Macoris on 10/16/1991. 5-10, 150.
From Venezuela:
- Shortstop Cesar Valera. Born in Ocumare on 3/8/1992. 6-1, 180.
- Left handed pitcher Jose Weffer. Born in Moron on 5/18/1992. 6-1, 178.
These players will be signed pending physicals and completion of age investigations.
“This is an exciting group of prospects that adds to our growing Latin American program. Our investment in young Latin American players this year is the largest in club history. Ownership has supported our efforts to build the infrastructure of facilities and staff and enabled us to compete for the top talent” said Jeff Luhnow, Vice President of Scouting and Player Development.
“We’ve scouted these players over the past year and very intensely in the past few months leading up to the signing date,” said Moises Rodriguez, Director of Latin American Operations.
“Each of these players was being heavily courted by several other organizations, but in the end we were able to land them by being competitive with the signing bonuses and convincing them of the fit with the organization.”
“In my opinion, De la Cruz was the best available bat in Latin America,” said Juan Mercado, Scouting Supervisor for Latin America.
“Franco has potential to be a top of the rotation starter someday in the big leagues and very few pitchers have his combination of size, stuff, and pitchability at such a young age. Add to that the premier middle infielder from Venezeula in Valera with plus defensive and offensive potential, and this is a July 2nd group that should make a big impact in St Louis in the years to come.”
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July 2
Jeff Luhnow Discusses Minors
Cardinals Vice President Jeff Luhnow joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday.
Luhnow watched Jess Todd pitch his last game and said he knows how to locate his fastball. Todd has also developed a slider to compliment his four seam fastball. He is going to the Futures game at Yankee stadium and will more than likely compete in the Olympics in China.
Jeff said in his opinion there is no doubt Todd will pitch in the major leagues, and he may be in St. Louis out of spring training next year.
Nothing has really changed with Colby Rasmus' approach, but he has improved his numbers and confidence recently. Earlier this year when his numbers suggested he was struggling, he was actually hitting the ball a lot but he was hitting a lot of line drives to the other team. He will put smiles on a lot of faces one day in St. Louis.
"(Colby) is doing everything we wanted him to do and he is right on track," Luhnow said.
Brett Wallace will be batting third and hitting third tonight for Quad Cities. Jeff said he is really excited about Brett and he will probably be invited to spring training next year too.
Right now our Memphis rotation has 3 guys--Jaime Garcia, Clayton Mortensen, and who started the year in single-A baseball. All three have improved their stock, and Jeff is really excited about the progress they have made. Luhnow said he wouldn't hesitate to send any of them to the majors to fill in as a starter or reliever if the need arises.
Jeff have a pipeline of outfielders that is full for sure right now, but we'll have to deal with it in the future whether its through trades or filling positions.
The guys also discussed Daryl Jones likely finishing the year in AA, Shane Robinson being one of the best outfielders in the minors, signing Latin players within the next 24 hours, Richard Castillo being his personal favorite, and Anthony Ferrara, among other topics.
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July 2
Cubs Preview with Broadcaster Hughes
Summary by Phil Capellupo
Cubs broadcaster Pat Hughes joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday to preview the Cubs coming to town this weekend to play the Cardinals.
Jim Edmonds is returning to St. Louis for the first time since becoming a Chicago Cub. Many people questioned what Edmonds could bring to the Cubs that they don’t already have, but with a couple of great catches and some big home runs the Cubs fans have welcomed him as one of their own. He brings more to the table than defense and power; he also has been a big help for the young players on the team.
It has not been made official but the general word around is that Carlos Zambrono will most likely be on a pitch count on Friday.
Lou Pinella has a lot of respect for Tony LaRussa and the Cardinals and will not be overlooking them when they come in town.
Likely All-Star Giovanni Soto is one of the main reasons why the Cubs are where they are. Everyone knows about his power and hitting success, but his great defense is often overlooked. As a rookie he has put in the extra work with his defense and knowing the pitchers that he is working with. He has gained the respect and confidence of the pitchers on the staff.
Since his slow start Kerry Wood has returned to form of a couple years ago. Since May 2 he has converted 16/17 saves and has an ERA of 1.10.
Carlos Marmol has the job of getting the ball to Wood and is one of the best set-up men in the majors. Alfonso Soriano will be getting re-evaluated tomorrow and could be getting back into the lineup next week.
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July 1
Strauss Cards Update
Summary by Badia Ead
Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker were joined by St. Louis Post-Dispatch beat writer Joe Strauss on The Roll Home Tuesday.
They discussed Mark Mulder’s scoreless ninth inning relief appearance against the N.Y. Mets on Monday night. Strauss said that with 13 pitchers on their roster, the Cardinals had the luxury of being careful with Mulder, who’ll be available today. Strauss also said his performance would ultimately dictate how often he would play and in what situation he would be placed in.
On today’s line-up, Strauss said Ryan Ludwick is probably surprised he’s been excluded for the second day in a row. Strauss speculated that Chris Duncan’s improvement--he’s hit an RBI in three straight games--has probably prompted Tony LaRussa to keep him in the line-up in order to build his confidence.
The winner of last night’s game, Kyle Lohse, has also been a hot topic. Strauss believes the Cardinals front office hasn’t approached his agent to negotiate because he’s been playing so well and it wouldn’t be smart to distract Lohse at this point. Strauss added that Lohse could command a deal in the range of $10 million/year over three years.
Strauss discussed reports that the Cardinals have contacted the Colorado Rockies, showing interest in closer Brian Fuentes and outfielder Matt Holliday. He said “any team that perceives itself as a front-runner” would make that call, but the Cardinals probably aren’t a front-runner for Holliday. Fuentes, on the other hand, would be more like a rental player and more accessible.
Finally, he said there was no timetable for Adam Wainwright’s return, but he’ll be checked out next week.
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July 1
Cards Sign Top Pick Wallace
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they have signed their first
selection in the 2008 First-Year Player Draft, third baseman Brett Wallace. Wallace is the ninth first-round selection from the 2008 Draft to sign a contract.
Wallace is at Busch Stadium today and will take some swings during Cardinals batting practice. He will report to the Midwest League’s Quad Cities River Bandits tomorrow.
Wallace, 21, batted .410 (98-239) with a career-high 22 home runs and 83 RBI this past season as a junior for the Arizona State Sun Devils. He was named the Pac-10 Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, becoming just the fifth player in conference history to win the award in back-to-back seasons.
The 6’1”, 245-pound Wallace captured the Pac-10 Triple Crown each of the last two seasons. As a sophomore last season, he posted a .404 batting average with 16 home runs and 78 RBI. Wallace became just the second player in school history to hit over .400 twice in a career.
“We are very happy to have Brett under contract and are anxious to see him start playing for our Quad Cities club,” said Cardinals Vice President of Scouting and Player Development Jeff Luhnow. “He has a high ceiling and will be an exciting player for us and Cardinals fans to follow as he begins his professional career.”
Wallace recently was named a Baseball America All-American, his fourth All-American honor. He is a finalist for the Golden Spikes Award, given to the nation's premier amateur baseball player. The 2008 Golden Spikes Award will be given out on July 16 as part of Major League Baseball's All-Star Week in New York City.
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June 30
Hummel Cards Update
Summary by McClain Thompson
Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch joined Bernie and Randy on the Roll Home shortly before the Cardinals opened their four-game set with the Mets at Busch Stadium.
Hummel is working on a lengthy piece about Jim Edmonds for Friday’s paper and said Edmonds is apprehensive about the reception he will receive Friday night when the Cubs come to town.
Because so many teams are still alive in the playoff picture, the Commish said the trade market is a little unclear at this point, but John Mozeliak’s focus has to be on finding left-handed bullpen relief. He added the Cards could use more power off the bench.
Hummel doesn’t expect much if anything from Mark Mulder. Regarding Mulder’s six rehab starts, Hummel joked, “He shouldn’t have made the Texas League All-Star team.”
The guys also relived the glory years of 1985-88 when the Mets-Cardinals rivalry thrived.
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June 30
Thompson Up; Stavinoha Down
Reports out of Busch Stadium point to Nick Stavinoha being sent down to make room for Brad Thompson to be added to the roster.
In seven games with the Cards earlier this season, Thompson went 1-2 with a 4.37 ERA. Stavinoha had four hits and two RBI in five games with St. Louis this season.
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June 30
Cards First Rounder Close To Signing
The Cardinals top pick in the 2008 draft, Brett Wallace, may be signed by the end of this homestand according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Wallace is a two-time Pac-10 triple-crown winner who is likely to receive a signing bonus between 1.85 and $2 million. The organization plans on starting his professional career at Class-A Quad Cities.
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June 30
Carpenter as a Reliever?
The Cardinals are considering using Chris Carpenter as a reliever this season general manager John Mozeliak said Sunday.
Carpenter is not expected to begin a rehabilitation assignment before August, and he is currently on a "slowed-down" throwing program in Florida. The team plans to have him face hitters approximately once a week.
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June 27
Izzy Might be Back on DL
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss joined the Roll Home on Team 1380 Friday afternoon from Kansas City.
Joe is surprised that the Mulder situation is an open ended situation, it will a day to day situation. He may be in the bullpen for a while at least until Flores comes back but may stay beyond that.
The move was surprising and Joe doesn’t know how it’ll work out. He would have never thought that Mulder would be activated to be a meaningful bullpen specialist. It may turn out to be a smart move.
Mulder is ok with it because he’s back in the Majors. He’d like to be back in the rotation, but he didn’t feel right mechanically in his last bullpen session.
The Cardinals don’t have the overpowering offense a team needs to make up for a poor bullpen, which is how they have lost most of their games. Joe believes they will eventually drop off because they haven’t lost more then 3 games in a row this year, and you can’t keep that up without making a move because of how the offense and bullpen have performed this season.
Joe said that Jason Isringhausen may be going back on the DL tomorrow with a knee injury. He heard his knee pop yesterday while he was doing his between inning stretches and putting pressure on his knee. Test results show some damage, and Dr. Pelletta will be heading up to Kansas City today and will decide on what to do after he examines it. If Izzy goes on the DL, Brad Thompson will be the pitcher called up and he was put on “red alert” today to get up here by tomorrow.
Joe said this is a jump ball situation with all the pitching injuries and he questions if this team is equipped enough to survive especially after losing a horse like Wainwright.
Strauss was asked if he thought they pushed Izzy too much but he said you had to find out about him, and it was understood when he got the call he would be a middle/long reliever. Joe said that Izzy just started to feel like he was ready to go back into the closer role, which would’ve solved a lot of problems in the bullpen, but it could be a bumpy ride now with Thompson coming up.
July 1st is the beginning of the teams starting to shop around. There isn’t a lot out there right now except Shawn Chacon, but they don’t want to deal with all his issues. Joe does believe that if Wainwright is out for a little while then they need to start looking for starters.
Joe talked about how Albert Pujols is the most important person in the league to his team, which was proven with the fall of Ryan Ludwick. If they continue to contend they need to be careful with Albert because a sudden tear could cause him to be out for a couple months, but if Albert can walk he wants to play.
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June 27
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS CARPENTER - Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - Continues his throwing program in Florida.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Capsulitis - Had left shoulder surgery and is out for the year. Is currently rehabbing his left shoulder in Los Angeles.
- JOSH KINNEY - Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - He is continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida and is progressing to bullpen throwing.
- ANTHONY REYES - Right Elbow inflammation - Threw a bullpen today at Memphis and will begin a rehabilitation assignment there on Monday.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - Is on the 15-day disabled list with a sprain of his right middle finger.
- RANDY FLORES - Peroneal tendonitis in the left ankle - Was placed on the 15-day disabled list yesterday with peroneal tendonitis in the left ankle.
- JASON ISRINGHAUSEN -- Right knee strain -- Will be evaluated later this evening by team medical staff.
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June 27
Mulder Activated; Parisi to Memphis
The St. Louis Cardinals announced prior to their game at Kansas City tonight that they have activated Mark Mulder (left shoulder surgery) from the 15-day disabled list. Mulder will initially work out of the Cardinals bullpen. To make room for Mulder, the Cardinals optioned Mike Parisi to Triple-A Memphis.
Mulder's most recent action was in a rehab start at Memphis on June 19 vs. Albuquerque. He was originally placed on the disabled list on March 21, 2008.
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June 27
Boggs Likely to Start Saturday Instead of Mulder
Mark Mulder threw a bullpen session Thursday in Detroit, but it is highly unlikely that he will start for the Cards in Kansas City against the Royals on Saturday.
Mitchell Boggs would get the start if Mulder can't go on Saturday. Bogg's is 2-0 on the year with a 5.40 ERA in five games, including four starts.
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June 27
Garcia K's 10 in Memphis Win
Memphis starter Jaime Garcia struck out ten batters and improved to 4-3 on the season last night in Memphis' 8-6 win over the New Orleans Zephyrs. Garcia allowed five runs, but just three were earned as he worked six and two-thirds innings.
Catcher Brian Anderson went 2-3 with three RBI and hit his first home run of the year.
Recently promoted outfielder Shane Robinson, who hit .352 at Double-A this season, went 4-5 with a double and a run scored. He's hitting .417 in four games at Memphis.
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June 26
Cards Lose; Pujols, Wellemeyer Return
Albert Pujols went 4-4 with a walk and RBI in his return to the lineup, and Todd Wellemeyer threw five scoreless innings, but the Cardinals lost to Detroit 3-2 Thursday afternoon.
Mike Parisi walked in the game-winning run in the bottom of the 10th inning after Gary Sheffield hit a solo home run in the bottom of the ninth inning to tie the game.
The Cardinals play a three game series in Kansas City this weekend.
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June 26
Pujols Activated; Flores on DL
The St. Louis Cardinals announced prior to their game in Detroit today that they have activated Albert Pujols (left calf strain) from the 15-day disabled list and placed left-handed reliever Randy Flores on the 15-day D.L. with peroneal tendonitis in the left ankle.
Pujols, injured on June 10, is batting .347 with 16 home runs and 42 RBI.
Pujols is in the Cardinals starting lineup today as the team's designated hitter.
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June 25
Minor League Pitching Talk
Cardinals' minor league pitching coordinator Dyar Miller joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Dyar said that Mark Mulder looked as good as ever in his Springfield outing in this latest rehab assignment. He averaged 91 mph, and Dyar said that changing your arm slot like he did is a gradual process.
Jess Todd is going to start the double-A All-Star game tonight. Last year he was pitching in Batavia and the way he has been pitching he could be in triple-A by the end of the season. He is real competitive, real professional, keeps the ball down, and he has 4 quality pitches.
The Cards have had to promote guys probably faster then they would like this year with all the injuries, but who ever is ready and available gets called up.
Clayton Mortenson who was drafted last year, is pitching at triple-A Memphis, and is doing real well. He has a killer sinker that runs off the plate.
Jaime Garcia is also pitching well at triple-A Memphis. fastball sharp breaking curve and a changeup
The way Jason Motte threw in spring training, Dyar thought he could've been ahead of Chris Perez, but he has struggled a little. He throws 95-97 mph, but he's still a work in progress. He has only been pitching for 2 years.
Miller just came from Batavia watching some new guys. Lance Lynn is a good size fella and he averaged 90 mph in 2 innings.
Zach Pitts was also impressive. His body work is good and he throws a lot of strikes down in the zone.
Miller talked about the guys at each level who are pitching well this year including Brandon Dixon, Kyle Mura, and a number of others.
"Throughout the organization, we have a lot of good arms," Dyar said. "Everyday, I see these game reports and see some nice numbers and velocity I haven't seen in the past few years."
Adam Ottavino hasn't done as well as they would like, but he has shown improvement in his last few starts. They are trying to do some mechanical things with him to keep the ball down.
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June 25
Dan Mac Cards Update from Detroit
Dan McLaughlin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Mark Mulder has arrived in Detroit, and he was on the team bus to the park. Mulder he wasn't sure if he will start Saturday, and he wasn't sure if he would throw today. Mitchell Boggs needs to pitch Saturday if it's in the majors or not so he would likely start if Mulder doesn't.
McLaughlin said at somepoint the Cards need to see if they can get something back on their investment, and he thinks they should start Mulder if he is ready.
Todd Wellemeyer will start tomorrow, and Albert Pujols said he feels good. There is rain in the forecast tomorrow but it looks like he will play. Dan said Pujols is doing sprints in the outfield right now and he looks good.
The guys also talk about Brian Barton, Jim Leyland's thoughts on the Cardinals' season, and Al Hrabosky throwing batting practice.
Dan said he was watching Albert Pujols and Pudge Martinez were talking on the field likely in spanish because Jose Oquendo yelled at them.
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June 24
Rick Hummel Cards Report
Post-Dispatch Cards writer Rick Hummel joined Bernie Miklasz and Jay Randolph Jr., on The Roll Home Tuesday afternoon.
Mark Mulder is coming to Detroit tomorrow to be checked out by the doctors to see if he can still make the start in Kansas City Saturday.
The rotation right now is shaping up to feature Kyle Lohse on Wednesday, Todd Wellemeyer on Thursday, Joel Pineiro on Friday, TBD (likely Mitchell Boggs) on Saturday, and Braden Looper on Sunday.
Rick said that Brad Thompson doesn't seem to be an option in the rotation right now, but he thinks Thompson is perfect for a middle relief spot.
Albert Pujols ran the bases tonight, and he will have a full workout tomorrrow. Pujols will likely DH when he comes off the DL even though he hates that position, and he will probably come off Thursday or Friday.
Aaron Miles has the best batting average in the history of Interleague play.
Chris Perez is sick with the flu and not available tonight.
Rick Hummel said he hates Wrigley field, and he doesn't like having to plow through fans to get to the visitor's clubhouse.
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June 24
Joe Sheehan Talks Cards
Joe Sheehan from the Baseball Prospectus joined Bernie Miklasz and Jay Randolph Jr. on the Roll Home Tuesday afternoon to discuss the upcoming three-game set between the Cardinals and Tigers in Detroit, the upstart Brewers, and Colby Rasmus among other topics.
Sheehan said the Tigers’ recent resurgence is due to Marcus Thames leading the offensive revival and an increase in quality starts from Kenny Rogers and Justin Verlander. Gary Sheffield was activated off the 15-day DL today.
With Cardinal fans starting to pay attention to the Brewers who sit just 1.5 games back in the NL Central, Sheehan thinks the Brewers are the better team and will finish ahead of St. Louis. Sheehan said Milwaukee’s call-up of Russell Branyan is comparable in importance to the Ankiel call-up last season.
As things stand now, Sheehan says the Cardinals will be a buyer in what is expected to be a crowded market. He’s not sure if the Cards can sustain their good pitching, the key to their season so far according to Sheehan.
Sheehan said Colby Rasmus can play at the major league level right now and that Ryan Ludwick, Rasmus, Rick Ankiel would be a phenomenal defensive outfield.
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June 23
MULDER SCRATCHED FROM START
St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Mark Mulder was scratched from his scheduled injury rehabilitation start (left shoulder surgery) with Memphis (AAA) tonight at Nashville due to back stiffness.
Mulder's status is day-to-day.
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June 23
Joe Strauss Cards Update
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz, Jay Randolph, Jr., and Martin Kilcoyne on The Roll Home on Team 1380 on Monday afternoon.
Tony LaRussa and staff applauded the players after yesterday's playoff quality type of game. Joe said it was probably the best game of the season.
Adam Kennedy seems to have a new life, and he had never had a pinch hit with the Cardinals till yesterday and it was just a special rally. He will see more playing time with Cesar Izturis out, but Aaron Miles is playing great right now, and they will both share time with Brendan Ryan.
Joe said the one thing this team has going for it is that Tony can dangle playing time like a carrot, and guys have to earn their time on the field which is a strong motivation.
Joe thinks the Cards have to see what Mark Mulder can give them because they can't keep stringing this out. They owe him a lot of money and need to know what they have before the All-Star break incase they need to make a trade because they don't have Adam Wainwright.
"If Anthony Reyes was putting up these numbers, he would be at Palm Beach right now," Strauss said about Mulder's stats during his latest rehab.
Nick Stavinoha is aggressive at the plate and if he gets ahold of one it will go far, but Joe is skeptical about how long he will be kept in the big leagues after the interleague series because he is a little raw for the majors.
Joe said he is also skeptical that the team would call up Jaime Garcia before September because it would be a reach to put him in the starting rotation and they wouldn't want to call him up and put him in the bullpen so he will likely stay in Memphis.
Strauss said the leading possibility for a move before the trade deadline would be a left-handed reliever if Randy Flores doesn't get back on track soon, but they might have to look at a starter with the way things are going.
Albert Pujols will be with the team in Detroit and work out with the team, and Tony LaRussa said he wouldn't rule out Pujols being available Thursday when he comes off the DL.
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June 23
Mulder, Pujols May be Back This Week
As reported in the Post-Dispatch, Mark Mulder is projected to start for the Cardinals in this weekend's series against the Royals in Kansas City, depending on his start tonight with Triple-A Memphis.
He allowed six runs on ten hits over just three-and-two-thirds innings last week against Albuquerque. He posts an ERA of 13.50 at the Triple-A level.
Albert Pujols will rejoin the Cards in Detroit where the team starts a series Tuesday night, and Tony LaRussa said Pujols will be activated from the disabled list when he's eligible to come off on Thursday if he feels good to go.
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June 21
Cards Shortstop Lands On DL
The St. Louis Cardinals placed shortstop Cesar Izturis on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right hamstring. Izturis left Friday's victory over the Red Sox in the fourth inning due to the injury.
Nick Stavinoha was recalled from Triple-A Memphis to take Izturis' spot on the roster.
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June 20
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS CARPENTER - Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - Resumed throwing program in Florida. Will throw a 40-pitch simulated game on Monday.
- MATT CLEMENT - He is pitching in rehab assignment for Memphis (AAA) tonight.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Capsulitis - Had left shoulder surgery and is out for the year. Is currently rehabbing his left shoulder in Los Angeles.
- JOSH KINNEY - Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - He is continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida and is progressing to bullpen throwing.
- YADIER MOLINA - concussion - day-to-day...is in lineup tonight as designated hitter.
- MARK MULDER - Recovery from Left Shoulder Surgery - He pitched in rehab assignment for Memphis (AAA) last night.
- ALBERT PUJOLS - Left Calf Strain - Continues to rehab and is progressing.
- ANTHONY REYES - Right Elbow inflammation - Was placed on 15-day disabled list and is rehabbing in St. Louis.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT - Right Middle Finger Sprain - Was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sprain of his right middle finger.
- TODD WELLEMEYER - Right Elbow Strain - He is improving and will progress his throwing to prepare for next start.
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June 20
Dan McLaughlin Cards Update
Summary by Pat Morris
Dan McLaughlin talked on the Roll Home Friday about the Cardinals’ opening up their nine-game road trip against the American League. Starting the first of three games in Boston against the Red Sox Friday night, McLaughlin said that the odds are not in favor for the Cards this series.
The line-up does not match up well compared to Boston’s, who has Manny Ramirez as their DH and the league’s best home record at 28-7. “The line-up’s not exactly murderer’s row,” he said.
The team had an on-base percentage of .356 (third best in MLB) before Albert Pujols’ injury. Since then, it’s dropped to .271 (last in MLB). McLaughlin said that, along with players putting more pressure on themselves, the pitchers' approaches have been more aggressive without Pujols in the line-up.
One of the many injured Redbirds that’ll be coming back is Yadier Molina, who will DH tonight after his collision at home last Sunday. McLaughlin said that Molina was saying he felt very good, and could have even started in the series against Kansas City. As a precautionary, though, he was held out until tonight.
McLaughlin also talked about how, though he understands why the Cardinals are carrying an extra pitcher with 13—and therefore a short bench—he doesn’t completely agree. After tonight’s start by Kyle Lohse, Mitchell Boggs and Joel Piniero will follow on Saturday and Sunday. Because they usually last only four or five innings, and because Isrignhausen isn’t available, the extra pitcher is being carried to play it safe. McLaughlin thinks that Lohse’s start is the most important of the series; match-up wise, the Cards will have their best chance to win a game against Boston tonight.
Looking at the entire road trip, McLaughlin hoped that the Cards will pull out between four and six wins. He’s hoping they can at least play .500 against Boston and Detroit.
“If they could go 3-3 in those two cities, that would be pretty good.” By the time the Cards finish the road trip in Kansas City, there is a possibility that Pujols could be playing again. Since his calf injury in Cincinnati, Pujols has been recovering very quickly.
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June 20
Mulder Gives up Six Runs in Memphis
Mark Mulder gave up six runs over 3 2/3 innings last night in Memphis in a rehab start. All the runs came in the first inning, and he gave up ten hits in all while walking two and striking out three as his ERA at the Triple-A level ballooned to 13.50.
He's given up 22 runs over 13 1/3 innings in three starts this year with Memphis.
Colby Rasmus extended his hitting streak to 11 games, going 1-4 with two runs scored, while fellow outfielder Nick Stavinoha went 2-4 with a double, a home run and three RBI. He's now hitting .346 with 10 home runs and 50 RBI with the Redbirds.
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June 19
Thompson Down; Parisi Recalled
The Cardinals have sent Brad Thompson down to Memphis and have recalled Mike Parisi to help with the roadtrip starting tomorrow in Boston.
Thompson pitched well today, but the team sent him down because they wanted to have another arm on the trip and Thompson won't be available again for at least a few days.
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June 18
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- MATT CLEMENT – He is scheduled to pitch in a rehab game for Memphis (AAA) on Friday, June 20.
- MARK MULDER – Recovery from Left Shoulder Surgery – He is scheduled to pitch in a rehab game for Memphis (AAA) on Thursday, June 19.
- ANTHONY REYES – right elbow inflammation – Reyes is experiencing inflammation in his right elbow. He was evaluated by the Cardinals’ medical staff this morning and will be re-evaluated after tonight’s game. At this time, he is questionable for Thursday’s start.
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June 18 (UPDATED 5:55pm)
Reyes Highly Unlikely to Start Thursday
Derrick Goold of the Post-Dispatch reported from Busch Stadium that it is highly unlikely for Anthony Reyes to start on Thursday because of inflammation in his right elbow.
Brad Thompson is in St. Louis and will be ready to make the start if that is the direction the team chooses to go.
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June 17
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS CARPENTER – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery – He was evaluated on Monday by Dr. James Andrews. Based upon the opinions of Dr. Andrews and the Cardinals’ medical staff, Carpenter will return to Jupiter, Fla. To continue his throwing rehab program.
- MATT CLEMENT – He is scheduled to pitch in a rehab game for Memphis (AAA) on Friday, June 20.
- MARK MULDER – Recovery from Left Shoulder Surgery – He is scheduled to pitch in a rehab game for Memphis (AAA) on Thursday, June 19.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT – Right Middle Finger Sprain – Is on the 15-day disabled list and continuing therapy
- TODD WELLEMEYER – right elbow inflammation – He will skip his scheduled start on Thursday. Anthony Reyes will start the game versus Kansas City.
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June 17
Strauss Cardinals Update
Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Tuesday afternoon on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Chris Carpenter is experiencing typical pain, but his projected return has been delayed a couple months to between August 15 to September 1. The only real diagnosis for him is to rest or have a less aggressive throwing program.
Dr. Andrews' reputation is usually fairly aggressive in wanting to do invasive surgery so if this is what he is calling for then it is looking better than it could be according to Strauss.
Todd Wellemeyer will not start Thursday and it looks like Anthony Reyes will start in his place. Wellemeyer is a max effort guy and this is the most innings since 2003 so it's better to lose him for a couple starts than a couple months. They need to rest him to recharge him.
Reyes' chance here is to enhance his value to other clubs and basically make everybody happy because his long term value isn't here but he can make himself more appealing for Mozeliak to get something of value for him.
There has been a disconnect for a long time between Reyes and the Cardinals and their relationship has become more corrosive since spring training. Anthony isn't stupid and he reads things, and Joe thinks everybody would probably agree now that the best thing for everyone would be for Reyes to go somewhere else.
The rotation for the next few games is shaping up to be Kyle Lohse Friday, then Boggs, and Pineiro, but it is always subject to change. Mark Mulder is an x-factor because he will be throwing in Memphis on Thursday and has a chance to come up to the majors soon.
If Jason LaRue got hurt early in the game tonight, Joe thinks the team would throw someone else out there because they want to stay away from using Molina. It is a real delicate situation because when you have to make 40-man roster moves entailing a catcher
Yadier Molina wants to play tomorrow night so it is not likely that a roster change will be made.
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June 16
Joe Strauss Cards Update
Post-Dispatch beat writer Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday.
Molina is out of hospital, but Joe hasn't heard of any roster moves yet. He would be surprised if Mark Johnson wasn't the one brought up because it doesn't make sense to bring Bryan Anderson up for one week.
Joe said he wouldn't rule Wellemeyer making the start Thursday, but he is likely going to be skipped over. Yesterday, Wellemeyer said he was feeling better after not feeling his best in his last outing.
Strauss said that with Albert gone it is very important to get Chris Duncan going, but there is no timetable for how long he will stay in the big leagues if he continues to struggle. He will face a lot of right-handed pitchers coming up though so hopefully he can get going.
Rick Ankiel is also struggling with the bat and is just 5-45 since Pujols has been out so the Cards need him to start producing as well.
Strauss thinks that Wainwright is the bigger question mark than Pujols because Wainwright's estimated return is more open-ended.
Joe said that if Wellemeyer can't start Thursday and Anthony Reyes isn't given the start, they should just give him away because they are telling him that they don't want him.
Chris Carpenter was meeting with Dr. James Andrews today to see if he needs to have surgery or not.
Tony LaRussa deserves a lot of credit for how the team has played this season, and Joe said that it's ridiculous for someone to say that a manager doesn't matter.
Jason Isringhausen will be brought along slowly, and Joe thinks they will need to see 3-5 strong outings before he is put back in the closer role.
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June 15
Molina Hospitalized Overnight
Official Team Press Release:
"The team's medical staff received back test results on Yadier Molina who sustained an injury in this afternoon's game. All test results were negative. He did sustain a mild concussion. Yadi will remain hospitalized overnight as a precautionary measure."
Molina was taken to the hospital after he suffered an apparent neck injury after he was bowled over by Philadelphia's Eric Bruntlett in a play at the plate Sunday.
Bruntlett was called out as Molina held on to the ball, but the catcher remained down for several minutes after his head and shoulders slammed into the dirt beside home plate.
Molina was put in a neck brace, placed on a stretcher and immediately taken by ambulance to a local hospital for further evaluation.
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June 15
Isringhausen Activated; Reyes Recalled
The St. Louis Cardinals activated pitcher Jason Isringhausen from the 15-day disabled list on Saturday. Isringhausen was placed on the DL on May 16th with a right hand laceration.
Izzy blew six of his 17 save opportunities before getting hurt. In 21 games, he is 1-5 with an 8.00 ERA.
The team also recalled Anthony Reyes from Triple-A Memphis. To make room on the roster,
the Cards optioned Mark Worrell and Joe Mather to Memphis.
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June 14
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS CARPENTER – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery – He was seen by Dr. George Paletta yesterday for discomfort in his right elbow.
- MATT CLEMENT – He will throw rehab assignment in Game 2 today in doubleheader for Springfield (AA).
- JASON ISRINGHAUSEN – Lacerated Right Hand – He threw in a rehab game on Wed. for Springfield (AA).
- KELVIN JIMENEZ – right thumb contusion – He was placed on the 15-day day disabled list last week with a bruised right thumb. He threw a side Thursday.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Capsulitis – Had left shoulder surgery and is out for the year. Is currently rehabbing his left shoulder in Los Angeles.
- JOSH KINNEY – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - He is continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida and is progressing to bullpen throwing.
- MARK MULDER – Recovery from Left Shoulder Surgery – He will throw rehab assignment in Game 1 today in doubleheader for Springfield (AA).
- ALBERT PUJOLS – Left Calf Strain – Was placed on the 15-day disabled list Thursday with a left calf strain.
- BRAD THOMPSON – Right Elbow Synovitis – He threw in a rehab game in Memphis (AAA) on Monday and will continue the rehab assignment in Memphis tomorrow.
- ADAM WAINWRIGHT – Right Middle Finger Sprain – Was placed on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday with a sprain of his right middle finger and will be re-evaluated next week.
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June 12
The Latest on the Cards
Summary by Travis Green
Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home to talk about Albert Pujols, Jason Isringhausen, Chris Duncan, Ryan Ludwick as well as the injured pitching staff.
Joe started off talking about Albert Pujols and he says he will lay low for a few days but expect to see him at the game tomorrow.
The guys talked about Izzy and his great outing last night, and Joe expects him to be activated as soon as Monday, unless there is a drastic change or he feels some discomfort. He believes when Jason is recalled he will not be thrown right into the closer role and Mark Worrell will probably go down since he only was brought up for an emergency situation.
Joe believes it will be crucial for Cardinals starters to give them a lot of innings in the upcoming series. With Pinerio, Wellemeyer, and Boggs all getting starts and two of them coming off injuries, the bullpen will need to be well rested. The guys believe Lohse needs to go farther then he has all year.
Joe also talked about the Alfonso Soriano injury's effect on the Cubs, but he doesn’t believe it will be nearly as bad as Pujols’ injury to the Cards, because “(The Cubs) have more bullets to spin” and also they already lost him once and didn’t miss a beat.
Jim Edmonds was discussed and Joe pointed out that he has always been a warm weather guy. He also has played well with the Cubs and seems to be getting along with their team. Joe says his defense is average right now, but he needs to step it up until at least Soriano returns.
Joe agreed with Bernie about Chris Duncan and the reality of him playing better at 1st because he is more comfortable there and won’t put as much pressure on himself while playing there.
Ryan Ludwick has been an All-Star throughout his minor league career, and most deserves to make the All Star team this year with Pujols and Wainwright out. Also Joe said Ryan needs to step up and he said if he’s going to be exposed now would be the time. Joe really finds him to be intriguing with how he never gets cheated in swinging and will always comeback to the park and fight hard.
The Mets Willie Randolph was also discussed along with Adam Kennedy and his meeting with Tony LaRussa.
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June 11
Joe Strauss' Update on Cards
Joe Strauss joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Chris Duncan will be the everyday first baseman. Joe said that he talked to Chris this afternoon, and he said that he lost a couple games when he had to get stitches, but the last 2 games he was down there he was coming along and is picking up fastballs better
than when he was sent down.
It's a stretch to think that these guys coming off the DL are going to be able to throw quality starts so the bullpen is going to be stressed especially without Adam Wainwright in the rotation.
The guys also talk about how Ryan Ludwick will handle the pressure of taking Pujols' place in the lineup; Tony's role as manager in keeping the players working hard; and Ankiel and Glaus needing to hit in the absence of Albert in the lineup.
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June 11
Ken Rosenthal Talks Cards
Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Wednesday afternoon on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Ken said "it's hard to imagine how this team can survive this big of a loss this month." They already have rotation issues and now the loss of Pujols will be very difficult to deal with.
Rosenthal said that the Cards' have a versatile roster, but it is hard to see how they will score runs.
"There is no sugar coating (Pujols' injury), but the one thing this team does is compete. It is the hallmark of LaRussa's teams in St. Louis that they play hard."
The Cards' whole premise going into the season was wait for Mulder and Carpenter and hopefully be in contention when they come back, but now it is different because both the Cubs and Cardinals are better than we thought and now they don't have Pujols.
Ken said that Willie Randolph is in serious trouble and he wouldn't be surprised if he would be fired this week, and the Mariners are next in line with a Manager on the hot seat.
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June 11
Dan McLaughlin Talks Cards
FSN Cardinals' Broadcaster Dan McLaughlin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Dan just got done talking with Tony LaRussa and John Mozeliak and they are both very encouraged. They will give him 72 hours of rest doing absolutely nothing, and then begin some rehab work next week.
Mozeliak said that Albert is upset because the team is playing well and he wants to be a part of it and wants to play.
The Cardinals haven't put a time table on it, and John said he wants to let the injury settle down before they do.
Dan thinks that Chris Duncan will see the most time at first, but don't rule out seeing Troy Glaus over there too.
Since 2001, Pujols has played in 96% of games that he has had a chance to play in. Only 5 players have played in more--including Ichiro Suzuki, Miquel Tejada, and Alex Rodriguez.
Dan said that he wants to deflect all questions about Al Hrabosky claiming to receive a text from Jim Edmonds last night while the Cubs were still playing because he wants no part of getting anyone in trouble.
There were 2 great scenes at the game last night--one ovation for Ken Griffey, Jr., and one for Pete Rose (who was in attendance) when they showed him on the big screen after playing a highlight of his career.
Dan said when he looks at the youth on this team, he sees a team that just refuses to quit, but he said that this is going to likely be the hardest stretch of the schedule coming up playing Philadelphia, Boston, Detroit, and Kansas City.
This injury to Pujols is devestating, but if you pitch you have a chance to win, and Matt Clement is making another start on Friday and Mark Mulder looks like he is coming along.
Dan said he doesn't really worry about Ryan Ludwick being able to produce without Pujols, but he is worried about Ankiel staying consistent. He also said the other two guys who are key to the success of the lineup is for Troy Glaus and Chris Duncan to come through.
McLaughlin said that he thinks Chris Duncan has struggled this year because he hasn't been as aggressive at the plate, and he needs to not take as many pitches. He said that if his power numbers come back the number of strikeouts he accumulates won't matter as much.
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June 11
Pujols Out 5 to 8 Weeks
Joe Strauss has reported on his chat on STLToday.com that Albert Pujols has a grade 2 strain of his calf and will be out approximately 5 to 8 weeks.
A grade 2 strain usually includes a partial tear.
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June 10
Pujols leaves game with calf injury
Albert
Pujols left Tuesday night's game against Cincinnati in the seventh inning with a left calf injury.
Pujols fell to the ground clutching his left calf after taking a couple steps out of the batters' box towards first on a grounder to first. Albert was helped off the field and into the locker room without putting any weight on his left leg.
In 65 games this season, he is hitting .347 with 16 home runs and 42 RBI.
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June 10
Mozeliak Discusses Cards
John Mozeliak joined Bernie Miklasz, Randy Karraker, and Jay Randolph on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
John said Adam Wainwright needs to rest his hand, and they will reevaluate the injury next week and have a better idea of what they are looking at. The MRI results have been viewed by many doctors, and they all came to the same conclusion that there is no tear of the flexor tendon. Mozeliak said it is actually a real common
injury in rock climbing.
John said that Joel Pineiro will likely start Thursday. Wellemeyer will start Saturday, and Brad Thompson's next appearance will be in Memphis.
Matt Clement felt good in his start Sunday even though he felt like he got off to a little bit of a slow start, but he "dialed it up" and he knows what he has to do next time.
Izzy will pitch the first inning in Springfield tomorrow night, and the next step for him will be a side session this weekend in St. Louis. Then they will decide if he is going to be activated or needs to stick with the rehab.
The guys talked about how many young pitchers have been used and that it is good to know what they have available in Memphis to fall back on while they have all these injuries.
"It's nice to know we can go down there and get help when we need it," John said.
John also said that they knew what Chris Perez was capable of and he has been impressive.
Brett Wallace seems enthused about signing and getting going, but the Cards are going to give him a little room after losing in the college playoffs last night. John said it is to their advantage in getting the draft picks quickly.
John said that there is always a concern with pain in an elbow, but Todd Wellemeyer needs to pace himself and understand that he needs to do things to maintain himself in different ways as a starter when he has been a reliever most of his career.
John said the biggest thing about Mark Mulder is his increased confidence. John got to see Mark Mulder throw today and when he walked off the mound, he had an air of confidence John hasn't seen in years.
Mozeliak said he is excited for Mitchell Boggs to get a start in the big leagues tonight. He said the keys for Mitchell will be keeping the ball down, changing speeds, attacking the hitters, and feeling comfortable in a 3-tier ballpark.
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June 10
Izzy Next Rehab Stop in Springfield
Jason Isringhausen's next stop in his rehab will be Wednesday evening for double-A Springfield when they play the Arkansas Travelers.
He is scheduled to pitch in the game, but there is no word of whether he will start or come in as a reliever.
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June 10
Garcia Pitcher of Week
Memphis pitcher Jaime Garcia was named the Pitcher of the Week by the Pacific Coast League after going 2-0 with a 1.98 ERA in his two starts last week.
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June 10
Izzy, Thompson Pitch in Rehab
Jason Isringhausen threw two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out one batter for Single-A Palm Beach last night.
Brad Thompson allowed four runs (three earned) over three and two thirds innings pitched in Memphis. Thompson struck out two, walked one, and gave up two home runs. St. Louisan David Freese hit his 9th home run of the season in the loss, and Chris Duncan hit a double driving in one run.
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June 9
Wainwright on 15-Day DL; Pineiro, Wellemeyer, Ankiel Cleared to Return
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that pitcher Adam Wainwright will be placed on the 15-day disabled, retroactive to Sunday, June 8, following an examination of his right middle finger earlier today that indicated the pitcher is suffering from a sprain to the finger.
Wainwright will rest the injured finger and be re-evaluated next week, at which time the team hopes to have a better projection as to when he might be expected to return to the active roster. The team will not officially disable
him until tomorrow (June 10).
The team did get favorable reports today on three of its other ailing players and expects pitchers Joel Pineiro, Todd Wellemeyer and outfielder Rick Ankiel to rejoin the team this week in Cincinnati.
Pineiro has been disabled since May 21 due to a right groin strain and it is likely that he will be activated from the 15-day DL at some point this week.
Wellemeyer experienced right elbow inflammation after his start last Thursday (June 5) at Washington and was diagnosed with mild olecrenon stress reaction and posterior impingement following an MRI exam. He is expected to return to the team’s starting rotation this coming weekend when the Cardinals host Philadelphia.
Ankiel spent the past weekend in St. Louis where he was being treated for cellulitis of his right knee. He has been cleared to resume play and will rejoin the team for its series in Cincinnati.
“All-in-all, the news is favorable on three of the four players, and in Adam’s case we are hopeful that the prescribed rest will help him to avoid any long-term absence from the rotation,” said Cardinals’ Vice President/General Manager John Mozeliak.
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June 9
Wainwright Injury Talk
Injury expert Will Carrol of The Baseball Prospectus joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Will said at this stage he doesn't think the Cardinals have a definitive diagnosis yet, and he thinks no one from the organization is talking about the injury yet because they all want to be on the same page when discussing it.
According to Will's sources, the Cardinals have contacted the Detroit Tigers about who performed Joel Zumaya's surgery on his ruptured tendon because the way Wainwright described his injury. Wainwright said he heard a pop and then he wasn't able to grip the ball, which is similar to what happened to Zumaya. The Tigers' pitcher had surgery to reattach the tendon of his middle finger and was back in about 4 months.
Will said it seems that it isn't that restricting of an injury, and if Zumaya's finger has been fine, Will said he doesn't see why Wainwright's won't heal the same way if that is indeed the problem.
"This is a relatively easy fix," Will said. "It's as simple as stitching it back together."
Chris Carpenter is coming along well, and he isn't ahead or behind schedule, but Will keeps hearing that Carpenter should be back somewhere around the All-Star break.
The guys aren't as optimistic about Mark Mulder and Will said his shoulder is "just so damaged." He has some sort of grinding where everything isn't smooth. The shoulder is much more complex than an elbow and it's really tough to keep everything in sync. Will said it's very hard to put a shoulder back together.
Will thinks Todd Wellemeyer will be back for his next start but because they don't have a root cause of the pain, he is worried that he might have a big problem. However, Will said it could also be nothing big at all. Will said though that he is worried about bone chips irritating something.
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June 9
Izzy to Throw Tonight
Jason Isringhausen will start tonight for the Palm Beach Cardinals as he begins a major league rehab stint. He is expected to pitch two innings.
He will be followed by RHP Brandon Dickson. Dickson is 3-5 on the season with an ERA of 3.75.
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June 9
Boggs To Start Tomorrow
Mitchell Boggs will make his first major league start tomorrow night when the Cards open up a three-game set with the Reds in Cincinnati tomorrow night at 6:10.
He was 5-1, with a 3.28 ERA in 12 starts for AAA Memphis so far this season.
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June 9
Clement Makes Second Rehab Start
Matt Clement allowed six runs, but just three earned on seven hits over five innings of work in his second rehab assignment Sunday night.
Clement walked 3 and struck out 2 on 75 pitches (45 strikes) in a no decision as the Double-A Springfield Cardinals rallied to beat the Arkansas Travelers 9-7. Clement missed all of 2007 following shoulder surgery.
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June 6
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- TODD WELLEMEYER – Right Elbow Inflammation – He experienced some discomfort after his last start. He had an evaluation in St. Louis today as well as an MRI, which was negative. He may be given extra rest as a precautionary measure.
- RICK ANKIEL - Right Knee Cellulitis - Unable to play due to infection in his knee. He is in St. Louis receiving treatment and will be evaluated again tomorrow.
- CHRIS CARPENTER – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery – Threw 3 innings in a simulated game.
- MATT CLEMENT – He is on a 30 day rehab assignment with his second start in Springfield (AA) on Sunday, 6/8.
- JASON ISRINGHAUSEN – Lacerated Right Hand – He is scheduled to begin his 30 day rehab assignment on Monday 6/9 in Palm Beach (A).
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Capsulitis – Out for the year.
- JOSH KINNEY – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery - He is continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida and is progressing to bullpen throwing.
- MARK MULDER – Recovery from Left Shoulder Surgery – Currently throwing off the mound.
- JOEL PINEIRO – Right Groin Strain – Continuing his physical therapy and will be re-evaluated on Monday.
- BRAD THOMPSON – Right Elbow Synovitis – Is throwing simulated games in Florida with anticipated rehab assignment beginning next week.
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June 6
Keith Law Reviews Cards' Draft
Keith Law, the lead baseball analyst for Scouts, Inc, of ESPN.com joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Friday afternoon.
The guys talk about the baseball draft gaining popularity and the awareness of prospects growing, and Keith said he thinks the television coverage certainly helps.
Law said that he thinks the Cardinals had one of best first days of anybody in the draft, and he listed
them in his top 5 teams.
Keith said that Cards' first pick Brett Wallace was the best pure college hitter in the draft. He first saw him play 2 years ago and repeatedly after that and "all the guy does is hit." He's very muscular especially below the waist. He's an average runner and can play first base and possibly third base. He is very valuable because of his bat, and he should be in the big leagues within 24 months of signing. He should be established as a big league regular in 2011.
Law said that Pujols is a hall of famer to him, but what if he diminishes sooner than expected, and it never hurts to have an extremely talented player in the minors.
The Cards' second pick Lance Lynn (Ole Miss) was in Keith's top 30 picks. He throws a 92/93 mph fastball, a curveball, slider and changeup. Keith thinks Lynn is very aggressive with his fastball, throws ton of strikes and was a top pitcher in the SEC, which is easily one of the top baseball conferences. Lynn needs to refine his changeup, but he commands his fastball and curveball---locating his fastball where he wants it---in on righthanders' hands and up for third strikes.
"Any time you get the 4th best college starter in the draft with the 39th pick, you have to be extremely happy about that," Keith said.
Keith didn't have the Cards' second round pick Shane Peterson (Long Beach State) ranked very high, and he hates his stance at the plate. It's hard to get your hands into position when you dip your bat, but he has bat speed which makes up for it. Law said Peterson's current play doesn't project into an everyday outfielder in the majors.
The Cardinals have a west coast tint to a lot of their picks.
Keith said that Cardinals' third round pick Ernest Vasquez was a borderline first rounder coming into the spring, but he only played about 5-6 weeks because of academic ineligibiltiy.
"I've seen him make plenty of plays at shortstop," Keith said.
"All he does is hit, and he has really really good pop for a middle infielder." Vasquez could play second if not good enough for shortstop, and the Cardinals got him 40 picks below where Keith thought he would go.
The Cards drafted Scott Boras' son, and the guys joked maybe that will help their relationship with the super agent.
Tim Melville (Wentzville Holt) came into the year as a top 10-15 pick, but didn't play up to that hype and had some loss of velocity. Keith said if he can restore his 2007 delivery, maybe he can get his 2007 stuff back. There were worries that Tim would be hard to sign, but Keith said he has indications that Melville will sign with Kansas City.
Keith doesn't think the criticism of the Cardinals for not taking Melville with the 39th pick is warranted because they had to make sure they got value with the compensatory pick, and they had to make sure they would be able to sign him.
Jake Odorizzi (Highland High, IL)was a great pick for the Brewers at that spot. He had a great chance of going towards end of first round, but a lot of guys not projected to go in the first round were taken. Keith likes the command of his fastball and repeatable delivery.
Keith said that there are a lot of sleepers who aren't even drafted yet because of signability concerns.
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June 6
CARDS PROMOTE MITCHELL BOGGS; PARISI OPTIONED TO MEMPHIS
The Cardinals announced today that they have purchased the contract of right handed pitcher Mitchell Boggs from Memphis and optioned pitcher Mike Parisi to the Pacific Coast League club.
The Cardinals also announced that they have transferred pitcher Tyler Johnson from the 15-day disabled list to the 60-day DL, and that they have rescinded the option of pitcher Kelvin Jimenez to Memphis and placed him on the 15-day disabled list (bruised right hand), retroactive to May 31.
Boggs, 24, will become the eighth player to make his Major League debut with the Cardinals this season, matching the San Francisco Giants for most among all teams this season.
The 6-4, 215-pound Boggs has anchored the Memphis starting rotation this year, going 5-1 with a 3.28 ERA (10th in PCL) in 12 starts. He has limited the opposition to a .230 BA (.193 vs. righties) and his 1.16 WHIP (walks + hits/innings pitched) ranked 5th in the PCL. He has allowed just three home runs in 71.1 IP.
Boggs posted a complete game win at Iowa on May 28 and worked 6.0 IP on Monday (June 2) at Alabama in his most recent outing. He fanned a season-high 10 batters on May 18 vs. Oklahoma.
Boggs was the Cardinals 5th round draft selection in 2005 (170th player overall) out of the University of Georgia where he was a member of the 2004 Southeast Conference co-champions. He went 11-7, 3.84 ERA as the staff ace for Springfield (AA) last season.
Boggs will wear uniform #68.
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June 6
Ankiel Not with Team on Trip
Cardinals GM John Mozeliak said that Rick Ankiel will not continue on this road trip, and the Cardinals have the financial flexibility to make a move this season.
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June 5
Cards 1st Pick Brett Wallace Interview
The Cardinals first draft pick Brett Wallace joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Brett said he's played 3rd base this year, and he's gotten more in shape---down to 9% body fat. He's ready to do whatever it takes to get to the big leagues and help the team.
The Cardinals told him that they were looking for an offensive player in the draft and they were eyeing him.
Wallace said that he doesn't think there is a big difference between using a wooden bat compared to an aluminum one. He said, "There might be a small adjustment period but if you can hit, you can hit."
Brett said his agent will be the same as Albert Pujols' and he has never met Albert but would love to talk to him.
The Cardinals haven't talked to him about where he would play in their system yet.
Brett said he has talked to former ASU ballplayer Evan Longoria (Tampa Bay) about playing in the majors, and he has worked out with other major leaguers this year like Manny Ramirez, Kevin Youkilous, and Joe Saunders, among others. He said he listened to their stories about playing in the minors and what it takes to get to the big leagues.
Brett said he approaches left handed and right handed pitchers the same way, and he said lefties don't bother him. He said he wants to play everyday.
Listen to Brett Wallace InterviewRead Press Release
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June 4
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- RICK ANKIEL – Infected right knee. Status is day-to-day.
- ALBERT PUJOLS – Mild left calf strain. Status is day-to-day.
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June 4
Glaus at 1B tonight; Ryan at 3B
Dan McLaughlin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Dan said that it was a bizarre night last night, and there could be some crazy weather tonight.
Tony LaRussa mixed up the line-up tonight because Rick Ankiel and Albert Pujols will not be available. Ankiel has some swelling and a little infection in his knee, and Pujols is out with his calf issue. Tony said that they aren't going to push Albert and he may miss tomorrow's game, too.
Ankiel is being treated for an infection related to the scabbing that formed when he skinned his knee and hand the other day with the great catch in CF.
LaRussa said that he wanted to get Brendan Ryan in against the lefty so he will play third base while Troy Glaus moves across the diamond to play first. Glaus has played only 1 inning at first in his career.
The guys agreed that it is a bonus to get solid production from Yadier Molina this season. Dan said he always goes back to his playoff performance against the Mets as a big step for Yadi.
Dan said the youth on the team provides a lot of energy that wasn't necesarrily around the past couple years. Kyle McClellan has been spectacular in his role, and Kyle Lohse has also been a key for this team.
McLaughlin said there hasn't been much said about Joel Pineiro, and he thinks Mike Parisi will be given every chance.
Matt Clement started a game last night and his velocity was a lot better, and his numbers weren't too bad so the Cards will keep their eye on him.
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June 4
Rasmus Stays Hot as Memphis Wins
Colby Rasmus hit his eighth home run of the year to lead Memphis to a 7-2 win over Albequerque yesterday. He is hitting .410 over his last ten games.
Starter Jaime Garcia allowed just two runs and struck out nine over seven innings of work, and Chris Duncan went 1-for-2 with three walks and a run scored.
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June 4
Pujols Leaves Game
Albert Pujols left in the fourth inning of last night's game against the Nationals in Washington, DC, with what the team is describing as tightness in his left calf.
He was hit in the back by a pitch in the top of the fourth inning and once he took his base, he was immediately removed for pinch-runner Rick Ankiel. He appeared to be bothered by the condition as early as the first inning. It's not clear whether or not he would be sidelined beyond last night's contest.
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June 3
Jeff Luhnow Previews Draft
Cardinals Vice President of Amateur Scouting & Player Development Jeff Luhnow joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
Jeff said he hasn't been in St. Louis for more than a couple days in a long time, and he has been spending 12 to 15 hours a day inside the war room so he hasn't seen much outside lately.
Luhnow said there are 1500 players in the war room right now on magnets, and most people focus on the first round. However, he said that "the draft is often made or lost on the later picks."
There are quite a few players in this draft who could be position players or pitchers. Jeff said their scouts call them safety nets because if they throw them out as a position player and it doesn't work out they could try them as a pitcher. However, they don't want to waste a couple years trying to figure that out and would rather get someone who they can develop right away at the correct position.
Jeff said they grade all the pitchers through the same process: We start to look at them their junior season and watch them for 2 years. We had a scout at almost all of Tim Melville's starts, and we have a good sense of how he has done. Sometimes we can get a better player if they have recently not done as well because other teams pass on them.
Luhnow said they do like to have history on the players, but there are a lot of guys they haven't seen as much as they'd like to but that's where your gut feeling comes into play and you have to trust the info you have.
You can't negotiate beforehand, but you can get a sense of what a player is looking for. A lot of times a high school player wants 4 years of school paid for, which can be $200,000.
Jeff said that between 70-80% of picks have "advisors" or agents.
The Cardinals held workouts at 5 different locations including LA, Memphis, and Florida, and they had top prospects at each location. Jeff said that he has talked to most of the kids individually at these locations and he gets some insight that way too.
There are very few middle infielders with pop in the draft every year so they usually fly off the board and go real early. There are some interesting guys out there, and we want to find guys with bats and who play main positions but those guys usually go early in the first round.
Jeff told a story about how Clay Buchholz dropped in value on the Cards' board, and he went on to pitch a no-hitter for Boston last year.
Luhnow said that the local scouting advantage comes from finding sleeper guys because the nationally recognized guys like Tim Melville and Aaron Crow are being seen just as much by the Cardinals as all the other teams.
Luhnow also talked about Jason Motte and some other minor leaguers in the Cards' system. Jeff said it's exciting to see Colby Rasmus hitting well recently, but AAA is harder than AA so we should expect players to have some trouble there.
Jess Todd is one of the guys we drafted last year, and he is almost the ace at Springfield. He has a slider that is virtually unhittable even if a batter knows it is coming. He overpowers someone by placing his pitches. Luhnow said hopefully they will find some more guys like Jess in this year's draft.
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June 2
Cards Update from Matthew Leach
Summary by McClain Thompson
MLB.com Cardinals reporter Matthew Leach joined Randy Karraker Monday afternoon on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Leach discussed Rick Ankiel sitting out tonight and whether the catch from yesterday had anything to do with it. They talked about Ankiel’s suprising outfield play, and Leach said he looked a little lost in the beginning (not a natural center fielder) but he is now more polished and seems to be improving every week. How far he has come is really remarkable. The improved defense is a significant part of the Cards’ success this year.
The guys talk about Todd Wellemeyer being a great story on the team this year because he was slotted to be a back of the rotation guy in spring training. Duncan found something he liked in Wellemeyer and he was dead on. Todd cut his walk rate and home runs surrendered and he is the biggest surprise of this team---more so than Ludwick, according to Leach. Matthew thinks he can do it all year.
They said that a key aspect of the Cardinals is that the starters aren’t getting blown out. Bad days for starters are 5 innings and 4-5 runs, which is very different from the blow-outs that characterized the starting staff last year.
Adam Wainwright is an old-school baseball player with a great mentality. He has a little Darryl Kyle in him in that if he’s anything other than perfect, he is always looking to improve. He expects the most out of himself, and his mentality has allowed him to translate his ability into transforming himself into one of the NL’s best pitcher.
Leach thinks the Cardinals can hang around in terms of the standings, but the next two months will tell a lot more as the schedule gets tougher. The Cards haven’t seen most of the NL’s better teams, and their current records translate to 30-28 over the next 58 games.
Matthew said he’s not ready to say they will be in the playoffs, but he is a lot more of a believer.
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June 2
WELLEMEYER VOTED NL PITCHER OF THE MONTH FOR MAY
St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Todd Wellemeyer, who was 4-0 with a 2.19 ERA in May, has been voted National League Pitcher of the Month.
Wellemeyer won a career-best four straight decisions, tossing 37.0 innings in which he allowed 11 runs (nine earned), 28 hits (two home runs) and recorded 12 strikeouts and 12 walks. On May 9th at Milwaukee, the 29-year-old worked 6.0 innings and did not allow an earned run in his no-decision.
In two starts vs. Pittsburgh (May 14th and May 30th), Todd worked seven innings and limited the Pirates to one run en route to winning both games. St. Louis acquired Wellemeyer via a waiver claim last May. Last season, the Kentucky native went 3-2 with a 3.11 ERA in 20 games (11 starts) for the Cardinals.
Todd Wellemeyer will receive a specially-designed trophy and a Sharp AQUOS® HD LCD-TV to commemorate his N.L. Pitcher of the Month performance.
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May 30
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- CHRIS CARPENTER – Recovery from Right Elbow Surgery – Scheduled to throw a simulated game tomorrow in Florida.
- MATT CLEMENT – Is continuing his throwing program at extended spring training. Will begin his rehab assignment on 6/3 with the Palm Beach Cardinals.
- JASON ISRINGHAUSEN – Lacerated Right Hand – Scheduled to throw a simulated game tomorrow in Florida.
- TYLER JOHNSON - Left Shoulder Capsulitis – Had left shoulder surgery and is out for the year. Currently rehabbing in Los Angeles, Calif.
- JOSH KINNEY – Recovery From Right Elbow Surgery - Continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida.
- MARK MULDER – Recovery from Left Shoulder Surgery – Has been injected this week and continues to rehab. Is scheduled to begin his rehab throwing early next week.
- JOEL PINEIRO – Right Groin Strain – Will throw a bullpen tomorrow and be evaluated after that to determine his return to pitching status.
- BRAD THOMPSON – Right Elbow Synovitis – Is throwing a simulated game tomorrow in Florida.
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May 30
Duncan Sent Down; Mather Called Up
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they have recalled outfielder Joe Mather from Memphis (AAA) and optioned outfielder Chris Duncan to the Pacific Coast League club.
Mather 25, will become the sixth player to make his Major League debut with the Cardinals this season, second only to the Dodgers and Giants who have each had seven players debut this season.
The 6-4, 195-pound Mather has been on a tear at Memphis, batting .315 with 12 home runs (T3rd in PCL) and 24 RBI in 38 games. He currently has a six-game hitting streak and has belted 10 home runs in May while batting .311 for the month. Of his 32 hits in the month of May, 20 have gone for extra bases (9-2B, 1-3B, 10-HR). His season totals include a .671 slugging pct. and a .406 on-base average.
Mather was the Cardinals 3rd round draft selection in 2001 (104th player overall) out of Mount Point (Ariz.) High School. He combined to hit 31 homers last season between Springfield (AA) and Memphis.
Mather will wear uniform #62.
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May 29
Freese Talks about Playing in Memphis
Summary by Travis Green
David Freese of the Memphis Redbirds joined Bernie and Randy on the Roll Home to talk about a number of different topics including his hot week he is having, the jump from High-A to Triple-A, also the leadership of Joe Mather and Josh Phelps, as well as the progress of Colby Rasmus and Bryan Anderson.
David says the biggest difference between High-A ball and Triple-A is the movement on the pitches as well as the pitchers being able to exploit the weakness of hitters. He also says he is very confident right now and hopes to keep it up over the next 3 months.
He also discussed the role Josh Phelps along with Joe Mather have played on this team with their experience and have helped him along with others. He says Josh has been a huge help with knowing what it takes to get the Majors, having been there for 4+ years, and he has shared all of his knowledge which has been great.
He talked about how great the team has been, he said they hope to turn around their struggles of seasons past and hope to make it to the playoffs this season. He also added that Colby Rasmus, Joe Mather, and Bryan Anderson have been fun to play with as well as watch. David said that Colby may only be hitting .200 but it is the best .200 he has ever seen, because he is crushing the ball but just hitting it to the wrong spots.
The next step for David is to play in St. Louis and he realizes that but he will relax and take it day by day, because he skipped Double-A and that he’ll have his struggles but will take his time.
David was asked about Cincinnati Reds prospect Jay Bruce, and he said the kid is an amazing talent and while in the minors he just looked bored. He thinks Bruce will have a great career.
They ended the interview talking about Colby Rasmus and the steps he is taking at 21 and how mature he is. David reiterated that Colby could be hitting .275 right now with the way he has hit ball. He thinks everything will be fine and that Rasmus will have a great 15+ year career in the Majors.
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May 28
Pineiro Disabled; Jimenez Recalled
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that pitcher Joel Pineiro has been placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to May 21, due to a right groin strain.
The team has recalled right-handed pitcher Kelvin Jimenez from Memphis (AAA) to take Pineiro’s place on the active roster.
Jimenez, 27, appeared in three games for the Cardinals following a call-up on April 5 (Russ Springer disabled) and was 0-0, 3.00 ERA in three game (3.0 IP) before being optioned back to Memphis on April 13.
He was 1-2 with a 1.88 ERA and one save in 20 games for the Pacific Coast League American North Division-leading Redbirds. In 24.0 innings pitched at Memphis, Jimenez had walked just three and fanned 14.
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May 28
Cardinals' Pitchers Update
According to Cardinals' pitching coach Dave Duncan Wednesday on The Morning After on Team 1380, Chris Carpenter is making good progress, and he is very optimistic about Carpenter being able to help the Cards in the near future.
Mark Mulder has had a mild setback, and Dave said that there is a legitimate question in what will happen with him. Mulder can’t get his arm in the right position and he has no control over it. His arm and elbow seem to drop when he tries to pitch, and Mark is getting frustrated at not getting to the point where he wants to be.
Matt Clement is making slow progress, and the team is looking at him as being close to going on a rehab assignment to see how effective he can be in a competitive environment.
Duncan believes Jason Isringhausen will come back and be a productive pitcher for the Cards. He is really throwing good bullpen sessions down in Florida.
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May 27
Hummel Discusses Cards
Summary by Badia Ead
Hall of Fame baseball writer Rick Hummel joined The Roll Home with Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Tuesday afternoon.
They began the 25 minutes of uninterrupted sports talk with a hot topic of discussion in the St. Louis area--whether to play Chris Duncan in place of Ryan Ludwick, let alone any of the other outfielders. Hummel said manager Tony LaRussa was committed to occasionally starting Duncan in
the line-up to get him going offensively.
Hummel did not disagree with this approach and said a productive power hitting lefty in Duncan, coupled with the power hitting lefty Rick Ankiel, would give the Cardinals more overall balance in their line-up. But Hummel did find fault in playing Duncan in extra inning games like in the 10 inning loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday.
When asked about potential problems down the road for the Cardinals, Hummel wondered how long the Cards’ starting pitching will hold up. He noted that Chris Carpenter was presumably the only rehabbing starting pitcher to return to the big leagues this year, and that other starters like Kyle Lohse and Joel Piñero were still question marks. Also, the Cardinals would probably need more pop off the bench.
Hummel pointed to the Philadelphia Phillies as the National League team most under the radar and most likely to overtake the Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks as the best team in the league. He said that while the starting pitching has been a weak spot, their hitting and relief pitching, particularly closer-of-old Brad Lidge and eighth inning set-up man Tom Gordon, have been strong. Hummel even said that if starting pitcher Brett Myers should start to pitch well, the Phillies could win it all.
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May 27
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- JOEL PINEIRO – right groin strain – Suffered groin injury May 21 in San Diego. His next start is in question, and he will be evaluated day-to-day.
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May 27
Freese Has 6 RBIs in Redbirds 9-4 Win
Memphis third baseman David Freese was a triple shy of hitting for the cycle yesterday as he drove in a season high 6 RBI in the Birds 9-4 victory over the Nashville Sounds.
Outfielder Colby Rasmus hit his seventh home run, and has reached base in 6 straight games, while hitting .277 over his last five contests to up his average to .188.
Memphis starter P.J. Walters improved to 3-0, allowing three runs while striking out nine over five innings of work. Former Cardinal Jeff Weaver took the loss for the Sounds, allowing
nine runs, but just four earned over six innings
of work as he falls to 1-3.
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May 26
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- JOEL PINEIRO - mild groin strain - He will skip a start, but is expected to make his next start on Sat., May 31.
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May 21
LaRussa Discusses the Cards
Tony LaRussa joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Tony said he is meeting up with Mark McGwire out in California on the off day tomorrow, and he is confident that one day McGwire will accept the opportunity to coach at spring training. Tony said Mark was ready to come to camp this year, but had some family issues come up.
Tony thinks Joel Pineiro is pressing too much and even overthrowing when he knows he's only a few outs away from a decision. He said what happens is you go backwards when you try too hard. Will Clark said you just have to make sure you keep breathing. Tony said sometimes when you over analyze everything you can become too muscle-oriented instead of just letting it flow. That's why experience is so important so you know what works for you.
LaRussa said when they first saw Ludwick last year he had a lot of pop. You don't ever say no to a guy until he has an opportunity to fail. In Ryan's case what we saw was talent. He has real good intensity. What makes you an everyday player is if you are able to make the adjustments to offset the adjustments other teams will make to you.
"(Ludwick's) going to be worked over so we'll see how he adjusts. Based on what he's done, you have to give him more shots, but soon we will have Ankiel back and have the 4 outfielder rotation again."
Ludwick will get at bats against both left-handers and right-handers, but he might not have the same results if he's in there everyday. Tony said a common mistake is that people think a guy who is hitting well will keep it up if he has more at-bats.
Chris Perez has been impressive. "I was really impressed in spring training when Dave asked him to make an adjustment and he made it work."
Tony said it is much better for Perez to earn the closer role through appearances, because if he blows a couple, he might take 10 steps back because of his lack of experience. Tony talked about Adam Wainwright's progression to the role of closer.
LaRussa thinks Izzy will pitch well for the Cards when he comes back, and the bullpen will be deeper because of the experience the young guys are getting now with Jason out.
"(Isringhausen) will clear his mind, and when he gets back, I'll be careful with him too for a different reason that Perez," he said.
There is a lot to be said for the talent in the minor leagues, but you never want to dismiss the value of experience. Tony said that the young guys in the bullpen are doing well because of the veterans they have out there with them.
You can't just look at a piece of paper and know a guy is a good player or not. You have to be a human scout, and you need the data you can only get from watching someone.
Tony said that Ankiel should play Friday against the Dodgers, and he said that Brendan Ryan will play tonight and he has done a good job of sparking the team.
"Dave Duncan continues to amaze me. The growth of Dave over the years is amazing. When he looks at a pitcher he shows him how to use what he has and he challenges him."
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May 19
Cards Update from San Diego
Summary by Badia Ead
Matthew Leach of MLB.com joined Randy Karraker and guest host Joe Zydlo today on The Roll Home Monday afternoon.
Leach said relief pitcher Chris Perez---a recent call up from Triple A Memphis---has been known to sometimes have a hard time finding the strike zone, but stressed that “when he’s not erratic, he’ll be really, really hard to hit.”
Leach also said Tony LaRussa and Dave Duncan would not hesitate to throw Perez into the closer role once they felt it was necessary. He cited their use of young relief pitchers in the past, particularly Josh Kinney, Tyler Johnson, Kyle McClellan and Adam Wainwright as evidence of their willingness to do so.
When asked on what he thought was the biggest surprise of the 2008 Cardinals, Leach said he was disappointed in the lack of power from the line-up. He maintained his belief in their ability to hit for power.
Leach also noted the misconception concerning Ryan Ludwick, usually considered a platoon player. He said Ludwick, who has been on a tear, has actually had the fifth most at-bats for position players in the month of May, and said this trend would continue as long as he continued to hit so well against right handed pitchers.
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May 19
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- RICK ANKIEL - right shoulder sprain - His availability is day-to-day.
- MARK MULDER - recovery from left shoulder surgery - He experienced lack of range of motion in his left shoulder due to capsular irritation. Is likely to resume his rehab in 10-14 days.
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May 19
Memphis Update
Mitchell Boggs struck out ten and allowed just two hits over seven shutout innings in the Redbirds 1-0 victory over the Oklahoma Redhawks last night.
Joe Mather hit his eighth home run of the season and his sixth in his last ten games. New closer Jason Motte struck out the side in the ninth to record his first save of 2008.
Memphis plays at the Nashville Sound tonight at 6pm.
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May 17
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- MARK MULDER – left shoulder strain – He has thrown bullpens and is scheduled to resume his injury rehab assignment on Tuesday, May 20 with Memphis (AAA).
- MATT CLEMENT – recovery from right shoulder surgery – Continues to pitch in minor league extended spring training games.
- CHRIS CARPENTER – recovery from right elbow surgery – He will throw a bullpen tomorrow and plans on throwing a simulated game on Tuesday, May 20.
- TYLER JOHNSON – left shoulder capsulitis – He had left shoulder surgery this week and is out for the season.
- JOSH KINNEY – recovery from right elbow surgery – He is continuing his rehab throwing program in Florida.
- BRAD THOMPSON – right elbow synovitis - He is in the long toss phase of his rehab throwing plan will progress as tolerated.
- JASON ISRINGHAUSEN – right hand laceration – Was placed on the 15-day disabled list today.
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May 16
Mozeliak Discusses Izzy, Perez
Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
John said he believes Chris Perez will do well with the Cardinals based on what he has accomplished in the minor leagues in just two years. John said that Perez hits 95-98 mph with his fastball, and he also throws a slider, curveball, and a change-up.
Mozeliak said he doesn't think Perez will be put in the closer role immediately because it's a different game at this level. It's a lot more pressure than what you would see at triple-A. Stamping him as the closer right away wouldn't be fair to Perez or Ryan Franklin.
Mozeliak thinks Perez can handle the job though because he understands the closer position, and he goes out for a fresh start the next day after a blown save.
Isringhausen's hand wasn't healing, so it made the most sense to shut him down, let him wear the correct bandage and ointment, and let him heal. John said they were ready to shut Izzy down last week when the injury first happened, but it shows that the Cards honor what the player have done for the club in the past and give them every chance if they feel they aren't that affected.
Mozeliak said that Izzy's arthritic hip isn't really a factor because the doctor didn't think anything was wrong with it. A lot of people might want the reason to be more glaring that Izzy went down, but John said that it's good that his injury is just his hand.
Isringhausen will be sent to Florida for at least a week, and then he will come back with the club or go on a short rehab.
Jason Motte has pretty much always had someone blocking him from closing games, so John said he is excited to see how he does in that role for Memphis.
Mozeliak said that he thinks Perez brings an exciting element to the bullpen, and it's It should allow us to be successful because these guys can close out games.
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May 16
Roundtable with Strauss, Kilcoyne
Bernie said that bringing Chris Perez up allows for Jason Motte to become the closer for Memphis, and he has been lights out.
Joe Strauss said that Perez looked like Ponson when he showed up at Spring Training. Apparently Chris has improved a lot with his control this year in Memphis.
Jason Motte isn't efficient enough right now and needs to develop another pitch before he could pitch in the big leagues.
Joe said that people want the Cardinals to have a closer by committee like Whitey Herzog had back in the day, but
Strauss believes that Isringhausen will close again for the Cards because Tony LaRussa will do everything he can to help Izzy get his 300th save.
Bernie questioned how the team could go back to Izzy if Perez is doing well later this season.
Listen to Segment 1
The guys talk about the Cardinals' problem of leaving guys on base, they discuss the bottom of the lineup, talk about Yadier Molina having so few strikeouts, and they start to preview the Tampa Bay Rays.
Listen to Segment 2
In the third segment, the guys talk about Interleague play and wonder if anyone cares about games against the other league anymore. Strauss said he doesn't see the need for a home and home with Kansas City, and Joe said he was told it was a mistake that the Cards will be playing in Detroit for the third year straight.
The guys break down Jim Edmonds playing for Chicago, and they think maybe Jim went too far expressing how happy he is to play
They also play "ask Tony" about his relationship with Dennis DeYoung, and talk about LaRussa's love for musicians and animals.
Listen to Segment 3
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May 16
Izzy on 15 Day DL
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they have placed pitcher Jason Isringhausen (right hand laceration) on the 15-day disabled list and purchased the contract of rookie pitcher Chris Perez from Memphis (AAA).
The team also transferred pitcher Josh Kinney from the 15-day disabled list to the 60-day disabled list to make room on the 40-man roster for Perez.
Perez, 22, was 1-1 with a team-leading 8 saves (4th in Pacific Coast League) and a 2.04 ERA in 18 games for the Redbirds. The 6-4, 225-pound righty had fanned 22 batters in his 17.2 IP, walked just 9 and allowed only 12 hits.
Perez, the Cardinals 2nd overall selection in the 2006 draft (42nd player overall) was a Texas League (AA) All-Star last season at Springfield. He combined for 35 saves in 37 chances between Springfield and Memphis last season.
The University of Miami (FL) product is a resident of Tampa, Fla. He was rated this past off-season as the Cardinals 2nd-best prospect by Baseball America. Perez will be wearing uniform #63.
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May 16
Perez Likely Called Up; Memphis Update
Jason Isringhausen will be examined by Dr. Paletta today and will likely be place on the DL opening a spot for Chris Perez on the big league roster.
Joe Mather won the game last night for Memphis with a two run walk-off home run in the 12th inning to bring the final score to 6-4 over the Oklahoma Redhawks. Mather has four home runs in his last ten games and is hitting .310 with six homers on the season.
Anthony Reyes allowed two runs on six hits over 3 2/3 innings in a no decision. Colby Rasmus was 0-4 last night and 0-for-13 in his last three games. Rasmus is now hitting .189 this year.
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May 15
Izzy Blows Up Again
Jason Isringhausen entered the 8th inning of the game Thursday afternoon with a one run lead and gave up a walk, base hit, and a three run home run to Jason Bay. Izzy also threw the ball away trying to get a runner out at third base.
Tony LaRussa said after the game that not all of the bullpen guys were available and he felt that he had to use Izzy in that situation.
Jason Isringhausen Talks after the GameTony LaRussa Press Conference after Game
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May 15
Maloney Discusses Redbirds
Memphis Redbirds' Manager Chris Maloney joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 on Thursday afternoon.
On bringing up Chris Perez, Maloney said it's a question of what their needs are. If he's commanding the strike zone, he's dynamite. He's a much improved pitcher from last year, and he's pretty close to being ready if he isn't already. When he misses, he misses down.
Brian Anderson needs to work on his glove a little bit and have it ready to catch the ball when it's pitched to him. It's a question of mechanics of keeping his thumb up. He throws the ball well, and he puts the bat on the ball most of the time.
Maloney said he is tickled to have David Freese on this ballclub. He skipped over double-A. Sure hands and fast hands, and he has power in his bat.
The guys also covered Jason Motte, and other players and you can listen to the interview for more.
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May 14
Johnson Out 6 Months After Surgery
Tyler Johnson had arthroscopic surgery with debridement of scar tissue in his left shoulder today.
The surgery was performed by Dr Neal El Attrache in Los Angeles, Ca. Tyler's anticipated recovery time will be a minimum of six months.
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May 14
Cards Update from Strauss
Post-Dispatch Cardinals beat writer Joe Strauss joined Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380.
Strauss said the question is how much does Edmonds have left. He doesn't have to be an everyday guy, but it really depends on how into it Jim is. Joe said he thinks Jim has something to prove whether it is to the Cardinals or the Padres.
The Cards just aren't hitting well, and they have to figure out how to use the bullpen so they might have a rough stretch here. He said they have to do a lot of things well to win games, and he's not being critical of the team but it's just the reality of the situation.
Joe said he doesn't know too many teams who have felt confident with a bullpen by committee because the manager doesn't know who he should go to in each situation from the 6th inning on if the starters aren't pitching well.
Stauss said that if they bring Chris Perez up he will pitch meaningful innings but they just won't be the 9th inning.
The mystery with Troy Glauss is why he can't be more consistent. He will go a few days where he rips the ball and looks like he is back, and then go a few days where he doesn't produce.
Right now the Cardinals have Yadier Molina or Adam Kennedy in the 6th spot, and that spot should be a power spot. Joe said that the Cards are basically giving the opposing pitcher 2 innings off because there is no power coming from the 6th spot to the number 2 spot in the lineup.
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May 14
Cubs Fans Not Thrilled to Have Edmonds
Chicago Tribune baseball writer Dave Van Dyck joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on
The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Dave said that the sentiment around town seems to be that they don't need him, and that they don't want a perceived mopey guy who might wreck the team chemistry.
Van Dyck said that Felix Pie just hasn't done it at the major league level so the Cubs want to send him down and sign Edmonds to see if he has anything left. Pie does have tremendous speed though, and that's what this Cubs team really lacks.
Lou Piniella is willing to give young guys a chance, but he doesn't have a whole lot of patience.
The people Dave talked to in San Diego said Edmonds just can't get to balls anymore.
Dave said with a laugh if the Cardinals have anymore rejects like Edmonds or Jason Marquis to sent them somewhere else.
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May 14
Mulder Throws From Mound
Mark Mulder threw 40 pitches off a mound yesterday for the first time since being shut down a week ago with a mild rotator cuff strain. Pitching coach Dave Duncan said Mulder felt good, but he still has work to do to get his fastball where it needs to be.
He's made five minor league rehab starts, but gets a new 30-day clock for a rehab assignment once he is ready to begin pitching in games.
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May 14 1:45p
Edmonds Taking Physical
StlSportsInsider.com has confirmed with a member of the Chicago Cubs organization that Jim Edmonds is taking a physical and the team expects to make an announcement soon that they have signed him.
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May 13
Surgery for Johnson
The St. Louis Cardinals announced today that left-handed reliever Tyler Johnson is scheduled for arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder this Wednesday in Los Angeles. The surgery will be performed by Dr. El Attrache, a colleague of Dr. Lewis Yocum.
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May 13
National Baseball & Cards Talk
Joe Sheehan of the Baseball Prospectus joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
Jason Isringhausen hurt the Cardinals on this past road trip. You could see this coming starting last year with Izzy. Give Izzy some credit for acknowledging that he needed a break. The Cards' bullpen has a low ERA, but they haven't pitched that well in terms of walks, which could even out real quick.
Sheehan said that Yadier Molina is becoming the best Molina brother, and he's not getting
enough recognition for his defense or his developing bat.
He said you don't need to get power up the middle, if you have the power coming from other sources like Pujols, Ludwick, etc. Adam Kennedy and Cesar Izturis contributing what they are is fine as long as they keep doing it.
Joe said that the only thing that Jim Edmonds, at this point in his career, does better than Felix Pie is draw walks. However, you can hide a poor defensive outfielder in Wrigley almost better than anywhere. If the Cubs want to play Edmonds as a corner outfield platoon, he could bring something to the team. San Diego was a horrible place for Edmonds to play.
Sheehan said that the Cubs haven't given Pie much of a chance to play this season so they can't legitimately say that he hasn't played well. He thinks the handling of Pie is how to mess up a player 101.
Joe said that the Florida Marlins are not a first place team, and they will be playing harder competition starting with their next road trip.
Lance Berkman is playing like Barry Bonds, and as we saw with the Giants, if you have one great hitter, he can carry your team.
The Tampa Bay Rays are a legitimate mid-80 win team. They are on pace to allow 650 runs this year. It would be the second biggest turnaround in history. They were the worst defensive team in the league last year, and this year they are great.
Joe thinks the Rays will pass the Yankees at somepoint in the coming years and make the playoffs.
The guys also talked about the lack of hitting this year in the American League.
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May 12
Rick Hummel; Andy Van Slyke Discussion
Hall of Fame writer "Commish" Rick Hummel joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 for an hour Monday afternoon.
In the first segment, the guys talked about Jason Isringhausen's troubles and how he is being treated by the fans.
They also discussed Jim Edmonds being released from San Diego Friday and about Jim possibly
playing
center field for the Cubs.
Listen to Segment 1
Detroit Tigers' first base coach and former St. Louis Cardinal Andy Van Slyke stopped by the show in the second segment with Hummel, and the guys talked about Anthoyny Reyes and the Cardinals' high OBP.
Van Slyke talked about the Tigers' poor starting pitching ERA, Gary Sheffield, and about how great managers can get big money players to play hard and perform.
Andy said he could see himself managing one day, but he just needs someone else to be able to see him as a manager.
Listen to Segment 2
In the third segment, Andy talked about Jim Leyland, and he said that his commitment and energy is there. Van Slyke said that he thinks Leyland may be a better manager now than he was back in Pittsburgh. Andy said that Leyland is like a grandfather as a manager, and the only time Leyland really gets upset is if he senses a lack of effort.
They talked about how disappointing the Tigers' pitching staff has been this year, and they talked about facing
The Commish said he believes the Cubs are the best team in the division, but they can be their own worst enemy. They aren't real strong defensively, but they are good enough.
Andy said that he doesn't know why more teams don't use a closer by commitee because there are so few guys you can trust to close out a game. He said that he thinks Mariano Rivera was the MVP of the past decade, and no one could change his mind.
Listen to Segment 3
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May 10
CARDINALS MEDICAL REPORT
- TROY GLAUS - bruised left triceps - Is available to play.
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May 10
Izzy No Longer Closer
According to STLToday.com, Tony LaRussa said today that Jason Isringhausen, who blew his fifth save Friday night, will no longer close games.
LaRussa said that Ryan Franklin and Russ Springer will split the closer role, but he would also use a left-hander in certain situations.
"We'll mix and match," La Russa said. "I think all things, everyone rested, Franklin and
Springer are the guys that match up the best."
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May 9
CARDINALS WEEKLY MEDICAL REPORT
- MARK MULDER - recovery from left shoulder surgery - Was taken off of his rehab assignment and will get approximately one week of no throwing and will then be re-evaluated.
- MATT CLEMENT - recovery from right shoulder surgery - Continues to pitch in minor league extended spring training games.
- CHRIS CARPENTER - recovery from right elbow surgery - Has thrown in a simulated game and is progressing his rehab throwing program.
- TYLER JOHNSON - left shoulder capsulitis - He was seen by Dr. Elattrache in Los Angeles and will rest for the time being.
- JOSH KINNEY - recovery from right elbow surgery - He began his rehab throwing program this week.
- BRAD THOMPSON - right elbow synovitis - Will begin his long toss program on Monday
