Name: Chris, aka "Clark"
Bio: I'm a life long Cardinal fan who sometimes takes fantasy baseball a little too seriously. I'm proud to have been there for number 62 and was able to see the 2006 series winner in person. I currently direct the online search engine marketing and PR SEO strategy execution for an Interactive public affairs firm. Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/ChrisLClark Connect with me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Chris-L-Clark/578241493
Posts by Clark:
Tyler Greene – Dark Horse at 3B?
February 14th, 2010All seems fairly tranquil in redbird nation. The rotation has one question at the five spot, the bullpen really needs an experienced, hard throwing option to spell Franklin and it’s up to a rookie to man the hot corner – but which Rookie?
With Holliday back in the fold, the cards are going to give Freese first shot at third. I could care less about the off season mistakes (to a point), I just want to see what the kid can do on the field. I think there’s sneaky good defense and 15-20 homers if things go well. If they don’t, then the man stick Allen Craig might be an option, but questions about his defense abound.
Enter Tyler Greene, who recently noted the third base job was open and he wanted in. He doesn’t have Freese-like numbers in AAA, but they aren’t as bad as you think. 2009 saw a .291 avg., 15 homers and 30, yes 30 stolen bases in 336 at bats. That should put the former first round pick on your radar. Here’s what I like even more, if you look at his stats, they get better as he faces better competition.
Greene will be 26 this year, so he’s getting a little old to be a prospect, but it wouldn’t be there first time the light went on after a few years.
I keep hearing he’s going to end up a utility player, but I’m starting to wonder if there’s more there? Time will tell, but he’s one player I’m going to keep an eye on this spring.
Clark
Cyber Monday Special, Cards Resign LaRue
November 30th, 2009The Cardinals have resigned LaRue to a one year deal, but may not be done at the catchers position according to Reid Laymance of STLToday.com. Speculation in twitterland (from @Pitchershit8th) is that this means catching prospect Bryan Anderson is either gone or being moved from the catching hole.
No word on any additional Holliday shopping, pardon the pun, at the moment.
Clark
NY Doesn’t Intimidate Matt Holliday?
October 19th, 2009Ken Davidoff wrote about Matt Holliday and free agency this past Sunday and if you’re a Cardinals fan, things don’t look good. According to Davidoff, Holliday’s top two FA destinations are 1, the Yankees and 2, the Mets. While the Yankees, should they win the World Series, are unlikely to go after Holliday, the Mets are apparently considering moving in the fences to appease Matt, as his one concern is hitting in Citi Field, again, according to Mr. Davidoff and his source (cough, Boras).
The rumored contract to land Holliday is apparently 7 years, 17-20 million. YIKES.
I for one am always impressed with the Scott Boras machine and it’s publicity team. The world series isn’t over and he’s already driving up the price. Now this could be a ploy to drive up the price and make the Cardinals do something silly before big M hits free agency, but I doubt it, Boras will want everyone in on the fun when it’s time.
So good luck Matt, and should you leave, I’d make one more request of Citi Field, make sure they also adjust the lights…
Clark
Dave Duncan Probably Coming Back
October 14th, 2009According to Joe Strauss, Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan will probably come back if Tony does – I’ve posted a link to the article below as he has a little more insider access than I do (ok, A LOT more, whatever). I for one am relieved to see Duncan coming back and just can’t imagine this team without him.
With Carp, Waino and Lohse ready to go next year, there are going to be two spots to fill and chances are Duncan magic will be needed. Personally, I’m hoping the rotation rounds out with Smoltz and Jamie Garcia, but Hawksworth announced his presence with authority (it’s a good day when I can make a Nook LaLoosh reference) and there’s always McClellan.
St. Louis Cardinals’ Dave Duncan says he’ll return if Tony La Russa does
Clark
Time for a little rest
September 7th, 2009The rest that comes with Labor day weekend has brought rest to a few Cardinal regulars as well. Saturday’s “interesting” lineup was our first clue that manager Tony LaRussa is going to take advantage of the Cardinals large division lead (like Grand Canyon large) and start resting a few regulars while seeing what they have with players like Troy Glaus.
This isn’t the 2006 season that was a dog fight just to make the playoffs, no need for late inning herorics from players with red facial hair that shall not be named. No, this year, as long as the club plays hard and works, we should see a well rested, but sharp group hit the playoffs.
Just how good is LaRussa? He’s knows when to push, when to chill, he just knows managing. While there will always be a special place in all our hearts for the great white rat, will there be enough room for LaRussa? There is in this Cardinal fans – I’m just hoping he gets his just due at the end of his career in STL. And while I’d like to see what the secret weapon can do as the skipper, I’m in no hurry.
My only complaint would be not seeing a few prospects get a little more salt at the major league level. Jamie Garcia intrigues me, a lot. Craig and Freese are smoking the ball in AAA and one wonders where they fit in the plans. I’d like to see DeRosa back, but will a Holliday signing prohibit that? I understand why these players aren’t here, one can dream right? I mean after the second half of this season, what can’t this organization, it’s manager/coaches and it’s players do?
For the first time in a few years, I get to wonder about the pending playoff run while kicking the tires as to what might happen next year with the birds. You know what, it’s a great feeling!
Best,
Clark
John Mozeliak, Bill DeWitt Jr. Rise to Challenge
July 27th, 2009If you’re a Cardinals fan, you have to like what you’ve seen over the past couple of weeks from the Cardinals front office and ownership. John Mozeliak and Bill DeWitt Jr. have taken shot after shot for the past several years, quietly folding cards if the odds weren’t right. They’d been so cautious most forgot they were at the table. That’s no longer the case as they went all-in and won a pot including Matt Holliday and Mark DeRosa. With one of the best team ERA’s in baseball, the Cardinals have upgraded a good lineup into one of the best in baseball. Surrounding the game’s best hitter, it’s going to be fun to see how it all comes together.
This weekend in Philly was just a little blip and one could hope for another relief pitcher and or starter, but in the end, the proper moves were made to shore up the Cardinal lineup in the up for grabs NL Central. I know the Cubs are hot, but look at who they played over this span. Factor in another Milton Bradley melt down and the loss of deep pockets in ownership and you simply have to wonder how long it lasts. Houston is doing their annual running of the ’stros, but one has to wonder how long that’s going to last. I just don’t see the depth in the rotation. The Brewers have their share of problems and it will be interesting to see what kind of impact move, if any, they’re able to make at the deadline, which could change the face of the race for any of the teams in the Central, save the Pirates (who I hope are getting good return for the players their dealing).
And speaking of the MLB trade deadline, I must personally thank Mo and Mr. DeWitt for not putting me through the agony of this week, wondering what, if any help will come. I’m curious to see where Glaus ends up and if another arm or two can come our way, but in the end, I’m one happy camper who’s not going to be glued to Twitter seeing what may or may not happen. This is the way to do it folks!
So what’s next? The players, fan base and media are all excited about the recent moves and rightly so. Now it’s in Tony and the players hands to deliver. I’ll be content with the rest of the season as long as the boys play hard. Don’t get me wrong, I want a return to post season play, but what will be, will be. I’m just excited about the prospect of good pitching, hitting and a return to post season.
Clark
PS – I simply must wish Chris Duncan the best as he gets a much needed fresh start in a great AL organization. There’s no denying that he struggled this year, but Chris was a character guy that I truly hope is able to regain that fun power stroke that made him so much fun to watch. No one should forget the first two months of 2006, because he did help carry this team and was a key part of that World Series win. It’s one thing to criticize a player for under performing, it’s another to bring the hate he faced because his dad was the hitting coach. In the end, this move is the best for Chris and I hope he’s able to relax and get back to crushing the ball and prove that his shoulder is no longer an issue.
Pujols, Molina to Start All-Star Game, Franklin Added as a Reserve
July 6th, 2009The fact that Pujols is starting the All-Star shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone, especially considering the year he’s having. The fact that he earned 5.4 million votes, an NL record did surprise me a tad, considering the number of above average first baggers playing in the NL today. El Hombre has been unbelievable and has people asking the question, if he hits 62, is he the real record holder? I don’t know how I feel about this new development, I enjoyed Maguire’s run and would be a hypocrit to criticize the man for past actions (I’m simply not as self righteous as most now seem to be). I was at Busch to see 62, and 69, 70 and will never forget those moments. I also just flatly refuse to use the “S” word anymore. Let’s see Pujols get close, and go from there. I’d rather he focus on keeping this team in first place.
I’m am very pleased Yadi is getting his due by starting the game – he should be a fixture in the spot for years to come – but youngsters Soto and Posey may push him with gaudy offensive numbers down the line. I’m just hoping we get to see Yadi nail some unsuspecting player off first base during the game, would that be cool or what?
The addition of Franklin and his microscopic ERA was also nice to see. He’s been lights out this year and deserved the spot with the game being played in front of the home town crowd. One could argue Carpenter belongs, but he was hurt and it is what it is.
I’m also very much interested in the futures game this year, should be good fun and will highlight some home grown talent I can’t wait to see. The home run derby should also be fun, wonder if anyone is going to hit it out of the park! The game itself should be a fun exhibition – make no mistake folks, that’s all it is. I’m not going to rant about it deciding the home team of the world series because enough folks already are, but I’d be remiss not to mention it.
We still have a week and some very important games in Milwaukee, but all in all, I’m just looking forward to the week and hope the rest does DeRosa and the others good.
Clark
Message Received, Cards Add DeRosa
June 29th, 2009So after rumblings of Matt Holliday to the Cardinals over the weekend, it’s Mark DeRosa who finds himself wearing the birds on the bat. Was Mo playing poker? Who knows. And what of Matt Holliday? Word from Bernie on Twitter is that deal is dead – with demands for a free agent Scott Boras player making $13 million plus while hitting .270 with 8 home runs deemed a “tad” too much. And I use the term “tad” with as much mockery as I can muster for the money ball lord.
To be honest, I’d like to see if Holliday can recapture his magic here, but the Coors Field label is looming large and I know Moneyballs stated he wants a better package than what he gave Colorado. Enjoy the draft picks my friend.
Mo gave the following comments on the deal in today’s Joe Strauss article. “There are times when you have to react to situations that are now,” Mozeliak said before the Cardinals took the field for a 6-2 loss to the Minnesota Twins. “There are other times when you can have vision and look to long-term planning. One of the things that I get beat up a lot for, and the organization does, is that we fail to make shorter-term decisions. From where I stand, it’s a great message to our fans and to our major league players that we do care about today and we are focused on winning.”
Hey Mo, it’s better than great, it’s one hell of a message that was received loud and clear. This also speaks to ownership’s dedication to the team. This move wasn’t made to quell the tide is dissent in redbird land. They’re proven they have a plan and will stick to it regardless of what anyone else thinks. No, this move was made to help a team with a chance to win. Making a move this early may have cost more, but it was needed. Read the Strauss article to see the player and manager responses, they’re sad to see Perez go, but are happy to see an impact move. As Pujols put it, “I guess we’re trying to win.”
How do I feel about Perez going? I guess indifferent. This team has a lot of depth in that area and while he will probably have a great career, I was troubled by his slider, or lack there of. You also have to consider the job Ryan Franklin is doing. Since Izzy’s shadow is no longer cast over him, he’s been incredible and should be able to handle the job for the next couple years while Tony and Dunc groom Motte. You also have to consider the Cardinals recent second and third round draft choices, power arms with high risk/reward potential. Just one hits and you already have the next Perez in your organization.
What does the future hold for this team? I don’t know, but the outfielders are going to have to pick up their game to put this team over the top. Mo can’t trade and replace the entire outfield. Mo did hint more moves may come closer to the deadline, depending on the team’s performance. K. Greene apparently had a relapse, so it seems if the outfielders can get going with DeRosa taking some of the burden off their shoulder then he can slide into third. The dark house here is Glaus. Apparently he’s hitting, but doesn’t have arm strength, so it will be interesting to watch, but not likely. Lohse will be returning, so that will help the rotation who’s only question mark at the moment will be Wellemeyer.
Things are starting to come together for a typical LaRussa second half sprint. Regardless of what happens, my hat is off to Mo and ownership for stepping up and reinforcing their commitment to this team and its fans. While they don’t always do what’s popular, they do what’s needed. Last year the team over performed while Mo and ownership were trying to build assets. This year, they’re trying to meet the demands of a baseball crazy market while maintaining a long term approach to winning in a sport that clearly needs a salary cap. Again, job well done.
Cardinals Step Up Persuit of Holliday
June 27th, 2009According to Joe Strauss via Bernie (@millasz) on Twitter, the Cards are stepping up efforts to get Oakland’s Matt Holliday. The deal could include Ludwick, Motte or Perez or McClellan plus a prospect.
“Including rookie center fielder Colby Rasmus, the outfielders’ two-for-40 performance during the recent four-game series against the New York Mets underscored the need for what a club source described as “a jolt.”
Chairman Bill DeWitt Jr., who opposed the November deal for Holliday, is apparently on board with assuming the remainder of Holliday’s $13.5 million salary.”
Let’s see what happens…
WOWs are nice, but Cardinals still need a bat.
June 22nd, 2009Wow, make that two wows, actually, let’s make it three. The first is for the Cardinals offensive explosion this weekend. The second is for Khalil Greene while the third is for the best player in the game, Albert Pujols.
The Cardinal bats came to play this weekend folks, and don’t think for an instant this is the K.C. Royals team you’ve become accustomed to, they’re doing much better this year and will start making some noise sooner than folks might think. Regardless, the bats showed up and wreaked havoc on our neighbors. Ludwick, Ankiel and Duncan all showed signs of life and give hope. But if Duncan and Ankiel can’t add more power to the mix, especially Duncan who’s defensive liabilities detract (I’d bet money if he would use two hands his defensive statistics would be much better – every ball I’ve ever seen him drop is because he was trying to showboat) from what Ankiel and Ludwick bring to the table. Colby is becoming a fixture in the best lineup spot in baseball and as of now, deserves to play everyday, again, as long as he’s being productive.
Let me state I’m not a Duncan hater, I love Chris, but he’s on this team for power. The singles are nice, but he needs to rediscover that power stroke and start mashing. One has to consider that the burden of trying to protect Pujols has to be a factor in lack of production, for all the outfielders. So even with the the offensive explosions, which are nice, the team still has the propensity to fall into slumps, hence the need for a bat behind Pujols to help the other guys relax. Does this bat need to happen right away? I don’t think so. Does it need to fill the third base? Now I’m not sure. Does it need to happen before the trade deadline if the Cardinals want to make noise in the post season? Yes.
That brings me to my second WOW. K. Greene looked like a different ball player this weekend. It was fun to watch and gave you that feel good vibe you come to expect after watching an uplifting movie. As I noted last week, I’d actually like to see what K. Greene can do. He has 20+ homer potential, can play good defense and won’t cost any prospects. If the team is going to deal and a change is made, I think it needs to come in the outfield. You deal from strengths, or at the moment, depth. If Greene can’t cut it, then you’re looking for a third basemen as well, unless they give Brett Wallace a shot, who, by the way, is hitting over .300 in his last ten games. I’m past caring about defense if we’re going to continue to play Skip at second. (Sorry Dustin!)
As for my third WOW, Albert Pujols, I think that’s really all I have to say.
Thanks for reading,
Clark
Cards make a move at third, literally…
June 14th, 2009So I just got done watching Cliff Lee, a lefty, dispatch the Cardinals with all haste (even if the ump was being a little generous – and he was – did you see that pitch to Tyler Greene? WOW) and was checking daily scores and more importantly my fantasy baseball league when I noticed news that Khalil Greene is being moved to third base.
There’s a quick write up on STLToday.com – Khalil Greene header back to Memphis to play 3B – by Derrick Gould – noting how the club has noticed Greene’s timing issues at SS and more importantly, the play of Ryan and T. Greene. So the team has decided to move K. Greene “back” to third where he won a Golden Spikes Award. Yippee.
I’ll play ball here and see where this goes. What is there to lose and you can’t blame the club for trying to get something out of the six and a half million dollar hole they currently have with Greene. Just don’t hit the man clean up, ok Tony? And get ready folks, Luddy is about to get HOT. You can just tell by watching him hit the ball the last few games.
Setting tonight aside, the offense had been hot during the last few days, which prompted Dewitt’s recent comments, noting a big trade is not likely “at this time.” He basically talked about “dry powder” again, even if he says he won’t use the term again because he was called to the mats about it. Am I disappointed in this? Yes. Did I expect it after a few offensive games? Yes. Do I understand this isn’t PlayStation baseball and trades just don’t happen at the click of a button and that many teams still think they’re in it? Yes. Do I agree with it? Hell no.
The Cardinals need another bat and probably a starting pitcher. There are moves out there to be had that will be salary dumps (or simply meeting a certain pitchers demands – not Glavine), these should be easy for the Cardinals since they claim there’s money there. And, please, no more “for the right player” stuff. That’s such a loaded statement it’s not even funny. Dealing the prospects is another matter. I would never make the trade Atlanta did to get McLouth, that was a lot and while I like McLouth, I don’t like him that much. So I agree with caution and the youth movement here, but again, it depends on what you get back. You can’t give up the farm for a Tejada or DeRosa, just can’t do it. But then again, I don’t think you’d have to give up the farm for those guys…but to be fair, I don’t know the asking price. You know who might be a nice fit with the money and player cost? Russel Branyan…stay tuned folks.
My past few posts have been very critical of the Cardinals management, so it’s only fair that I give them kudos for the recent draft. The Miller move was perfect and according to Whiteyball founder Dustin, the subsequent early round move were really good as well. They need to get him signed, but here’s a job well done to the organization for what could prove to be a stellar first round pick. Here’s hoping he lives up to those lofty comparisons and that some of the other picks bring us happy returns from the minors soon, cheers!
Clark
Two years and counting…when will an impact move come?
June 8th, 2009
Faberge Egg - Time to Deal
Watching Cardinals baseball this weekend was simply hard to do. The starters seemed to hang in there until they realized the team’s offense wasn’t going to get it done, and then, well, yikes. The only signs of life with the bats came from Pujols and Rasmus. I think I saw flashes of the old Ludwick and Ankiel, but I’m not sure yet. This team simply can’t get away with the current offensive production of it’s outfield coupled with average infield production – and I’m being generous here – from third, short and second.
Tony’s been trying to play the match ups based on who’s been successful with who in the past with his outfielders, but I think we’re past that now. Ludwick should be in right field everyday, with Rasmus in center and Ankiel in left. If Duncan isn’t hitting for power, he shouldn’t be in the lineup on close to an everyday basis until he finds his power stroke. And no, I’m not a Duncan hater, it just is what it is right now. Rasmus is starting to heat up and you can just tell there’s something special there. He’s reading the breaking pitches better, smoking the ball and just looks plain comfortable playing this game as a 22 year old. He’s been a traditional slow starter in the minors, so let’s see where this goes.
Fans, media, players and even the front office know what needs to be done. Bernie wrote a great article this morning – Cardinals’ morale is at risk – that dives into the team’s current offensive woes and what it could mean to team morale if something isn’t done to right the ship.
He made some fair points that Mo and ownership couldn’t have predicted the outfield production and the Glaus injury, but for me, I just don’t care anymore. Personally, I’ve been waiting for a move two years and counting. I’ve been told an impact arm and bat will come. I give credit for Lohse, but the bat hasn’t shown up yet. I’ve obsessed around the past two trade deadlines, reading rumor after rumor waiting for something to happen, even if it’s a Will Clark type move, and yet nothing happens.
So while everyone knows what needs to be done – deal a Faberge Egg (Bernie-M-ism) or two to get help – I’m not going to do it this year. I’m not chasing the rumors, not getting excited about the what might be. Because I’ve heard it all before and I’m tired of the let down. Bernie ends his article saying Mo needs to make a move or risk losing the clubhouse. It’s not just the clubhouse Bernie, it’s the fan base as well.
Clark
Cardinal Rumor Mill is Heating Up Now That Needs Are Obvious
May 25th, 2009
Mark DeRosa
As the Cardinals slowly start to get healthy again, we’re able to look back and examine exactly where things fell apart while keeping an eye out for potential future moves. The most glaring need right now is at third. Mike wrote an excellent post last week, “I Don’t Know” is on Third Base, with the rationale for playing Brian Barden on a daily basis to see what he can do. He also called for patience with Wallace, as Whiteyball founder Dustin noted his defense isn’t major league ready.
I like this approach for the short term, but as we’ve seen with many utility players in the past, they start to struggle when they get over exposed. I think we’ve already seen this with Barden and Thurston. My other issue with this is that we simply need more power from this spot. Look, I very much like both Barden and Thurston, but a team’s offense is much like it’s bullpen. If folks are out of place, it can cause issues.
That’s going to leave three options for Mo; 1., Wait for Glaus, 2., Make a trade, 3., Bring up Wallace. Let’s just throw out option 1. That leaves either a trade or seeing what the kid can do. There are several interesting options that might be available via trade. They include Mark DeRosa, R. Branyan, G. Atkins, A. Beltre, M. Mora and Mark DeRosa to name a few. (I have no actual intel here folks, they just fit.) Can you guess who I like here? DeRosa is a perfect fit. He can play third and if, by some strange cosmic event Glaus comes back, you can slide him over the second or in the outfield. We’d need to figure out what to do with Skip, because he’s earned his spot and playing time on this team, but how would our lineup look with DeRosa playing second? There’s a karma bonus here, DeRosa played for the Cubs and paybacks are hell. Karma owes Cardinal fans with the Edmonds and Miles defections!
That still leaves Wallace. I’ve been an advocate for calling him up and it certainly fits with the teams youth movement. The problem, the bat will play, the glove won’t at the moment. Would working with the secret weapon help? It might, but this isn’t spring training. I must point out that the club is willing to sacrifice defense for offense in the case of Chris “Two Hands” Duncan, so why not do it at third? Wallace is mashing AAA pitching and you can help but think he’s staring down a big, fat carrot in a call to the show. What do you want to bet he continues to mash?
I’m starting to think a deal for someone like DeRosa would be the best, giving Wallace the September call up to get acclimated for next years competition at the hot corner.
That takes us to the short stop position. K. Greene is done as a major league regular. If you look at his stats, he had one really good year while teasing with his ability. I liked the gamble, especially for the price, but now it’s time to move on. If we can deal him great – rumors have been noted about Boston – but that environment won’t be very friendly for Greene and his confidence. There are several healthy in-house options here that might work. We’re going to see if Ryan has what it takes now the T. Greene was sent down. I don’t have a problem with this since Ryan has paid his dues, but there’s something to T. Green that I really like. Both play spectacular defense, but with the stick, T. Greene offers more pop and may even be faster that Ryan. Long term, he’s starting to look like the better option. He still has a lot to prove and I don’t think we’ve seen all that Ryan has to offer. We may even be talking about the Cardinals starting short stop and second baseman of the future.
There are trade options, namely Christian Guzman, but there’s no way ownership is going to take on the $15-$20 million in salary for both third base and shortstop options. Especially considering the salary already in Glaus and K. Greene. So this improvement will have to be internal and has already been made with Ryan slotted to see a majority of the time at short. The defense will be good, let’s see if we get more than Izturis gave us with the bat last year.
So what else? The bullpen could use another power arm and the bench could use a legit power option we just don’t have right now. We simply have too many utility level power options there now. If Mather can get healthy and make it back, there’s one option. I’m not sure what might be there in trade. The same goes for the bullpen, we have enough options at AAA to fill any void with Boggs, Todd, Kinney and others.
So there you have it – trade for DeRosa and the Cardinals are on the path to winning the series. As I said before, it’s all about the Karma.
Clark
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Reality wake up call is rude truth of the matter
May 18th, 2009
Todd Wellemeyer
April began with a troubled bull pen and a offensive display that was most impressive. The starting pitching was good with a few exceptions and late April saw a very impressive stretch of baseball that had Cardinal fans thinking this team was going to leave the rest of the central in the dust.
Then the May showers came. The bull pen has been good, the offense and starting pitching have sputtered and the team is now in third place, two games behind the Brewers – what the hell? It’s baseball and a quick wake up call for those of us with illusions of grandeur. And don’t forget about the Reds and Astros folks…
The feel good stories of Barden and Thurston feel more like players that have been over exposed, although one might ask why after winning rookie of the month, Barden only had seven at bats during the last road trip? Don’t get we wrong, I still like both, but they’re not everyday players. K. Greene’s struggles have led to more playing time for first round pick T. Greene and perhaps even B. Ryan. K. Greene’s huge year is looking more and more like a career offering and his defense has been less than advertised this year. I like that Tony is seeing what the kids can do, but wonder what a player like Christian Guzman would look like wearing red?
Now one must point to the fact that losing Ludwick and Ankiel will/has led to some of the offensive woes, but really, Ludwick was the only one hitting. Getting Ludwick back in the lineup will be a huge boost, but it still needs another power stick. Duncan could be that stick, but the power is noticeably absent. Personally, before a trade is made, I’d like to see what Brett Wallace can do at this level. Can it really be any worse than what we’re currently getting from Thurston/Barden? Chances are Wallace will struggle at first, but there are only a handful of prospects we see every so many years that handle the initial transition. Pujols never looked back, Colby’s doing ok. Let’s also remember Wallace went from college ball to AA in less than a year, and did more than fine. If it doesn’t work, he’s humbled and sent back down to work on it. But if he does…the offense looks much different. If Glaus is able to come back, work him in and even better.
The starting pitching is a different matter. Wainwright should be ok, I’ll hold my breathe every time Carp goes out and Lohse will be fine, if not what a #3 should be. The questions surrounding Wellemeyer and Pineiro are greater. Wellemeyer sports a 5.87 era and Pineiro is hovering around a low 4.17. I’m not advocating a move here, but Wellemeyer has to be better than his seven walks yesterday and Pineiro seems to be trending down after riding his World Baseball Classic issues (I’m not going to call it a snub because the guys that took the rotation spots were better).
Again, I’m not saying we need to go sign Pedro, but if a few things don’t get sorted out in May and no moves are made, things will be interesting. I’ve resigned myself to the fact that this team will hang around and hopefully be in a position to make one of those famous Tony September runs – let’s just hope we’re close enough.
Clark
Rasmus to bat 9th tonight
May 6th, 2009Tonight’s line up was posted by Mike Smith on STLToday.com and Tony’s second leadoff man approach with Rasmus he teased us all with in spring training is now a reality. K. Greene is also back in action. I hated this idea during the spring, but now with Thurston and Barden red hot, I actually like it. It’s obvious the Cardinals are positioning Colby to be the everyday guy next year and just letting him get used to the majors this year, so why not let him build up his confidence in the nine spot? Let me know what you think?
1. Brian Barden, 3B
2. Joe Thurston, 2B
3. Albert Pujols, 1B
4. Ryan Ludwick, RF
5. Yadier Molina, C
6. Chris Duncan, LF
7. Khalil Greene, SS
8. Mitchell Boggs, P
9. Colby Rasmus, CF
Clark
Thompson Up, Walters Optioned Today
May 4th, 2009
Brad Thompson
Brad Thompson is back with the big club after pitching well at AAA. Thompson carried a 3.45 ERA in 15 innings with 9k’s and only one walk while at Memphis. Walters struggled in St. Louis with an ERA close to 10. The move continues to keep the club with a short bench – only four men – but the versitility of Schumaker moving from second to the OF late in the game is giving Tony some extra flexibility here.
Today’s Blog Post Rained Out…
May 4th, 2009
Today's blog post rained out.
Just kidding – or am I? It was a disappoint not to be able to watch Cardinals baseball yesterday as I was doing the weekend Lowes thing saturday. It was also disappointing to miss Colby’s first homerun, but life will go on. The club was great on the road trip taking four of six.
The bullpen seems to be taking shape now after a rocky start. Joe Strauss wrote a nice piece today – Cards bullpen settles in – that gets in-depth and offers some nice qoutes from Dave Duncan. The article notes Miller is definetely a lefty specialist, Reyes is a jack of all trades and that the closer responsibilities are just too much for Motte and Perez right now. At this point, who cares if Franklin keeps pitching the way he is.
The interesting new puzzle piece that is Blaine Boyer seems intriguing. I finally got to see him pitch the other night and was surprised by his arm. The can get after it with the fastball and he did have a nice curve. His ERA is 14 something, but he’s only pitched 5 innings. Joe’s article really diggs into how Duncan has worked with Blaine to adjust a few things and now he’s throwing with confidence and purpose.
I feel sorry for the next pitching coach in St. Louis. I just don’t think fans realize what Duncan means to this team and this organization. Clone him now! Tony is doing a nice job as well – had to throw something in there for the LaRussa haters.
I’m looking forward to the Philly game tonight – especially now the Lohse is going to pitch. I had the sudden sick feeling yesterday when I heard Lohse wasn’t going to start, but the reasoning made sense. I believe these are the only two games this year that I won’t be rooting for local Ryan Howard.
I’m also can’t wait to see what Boggs does with his last start. I don’t know why, but he reminds me of Dan Haren. The Cards couldn’t catch lightning in a bottle twice – could they?
Clark
UCB Debate: Brett Wallace should be called up if Glaus is out for the year
April 30th, 2009
UCB - United Cardinal Bloggers
The United Cardinal Bloggers are having an intersquad match up today and I’m going to offer my position as to why Brett Wallace should be called up (considered anyway) if Troy Glaus is out for the year. Allen at The Redbird Blog will be countering and I encourage everyone to go check out his post.
Here we go. Ok, so I’m not going to touch the issue of Troy having shoulder problems LAST year and finally being diagnosed right before spring training of THIS year. Wait for it – - – - – What the hell?
Anyway, Glaus played great defense and could mash, so how do you replace that kind of stick in the order? Chris Duncan anyone? Anyway, a healthy Duncan, a good showing by Raz and the best offense in the majors have quited the need to address the offense and the production from third base. The combination of Thurston and Barden has been more than impressive holding the spot down for now. It was disappointing that Freese couldn’t stick, but not shocking and I’m sure we’ll see him again.
So why call up Wallace and mess with a good thing? Not to mention you start his clock and if he’s the hitter we all think, sweat that big contract that will eventually come his way. I’m glad you asked – and even if you didn’t – it was a rhetorical question.
While Barden and Thurston are playing great, you risk over exposing these guys. Bo Hart started hot once… Tony is a master at not overexposing guys and he’s worked magic here. Could either hold down a position everyday? Second maybe, but not third, you simply have to have more pop here. Wallace has pop.
Starting his clock wouldn’t be ideal, but the current trend in MLB is to lock up really good young players with a mutually beneficial contract – see Wainwright. It’s not that big a deal unless demands just get crazy.
Worried about his defense? Who better to work with him at the MAJOR league level than the secret weapon?
Glaus is a free agent next year and everything I’ve read notes Wallace as his aire apparent. Let him get a taste now, so we know whether or not he’s ready. Anyone wish Motte got more than 10 innings last year now?
Wallace can just flat hit - eight homers, 36 RBI, and a .337 batting average in 54 games in the minors – including a quick promotion to AA. We’re not talking rookie ball here folks. And this year? So far in 18 games he’s hitting .286 with four homers, 11 RBI and a .438 OBP!
My final point, one which Allen can not hope to counter, look at what happen to Albert Pujols when they let him out of the cage…sometimes guys just belong.
Clark
Cards/Cubs Avoid Brawl, TWO HANDS, Rams Draft
April 27th, 2009Several thoughts running through my head today, we’ll start with the Cards-Cubs series. First two game were great – I’ll talk about one-handed catches shortly. Yesterdays game was rough to watch, especially Soriano getting plunked in the head. I’m really hoping Welly gets back on track, but things don’t look good and one has to wonder if Boggs keeps pitching the way he did, who’s going to lose out when Carp gets back. Waino, Pinero and Lohse have been spectacular and steady respectively.
Speaking of the game, the only reason I kept watching so late was to see if a Cardinal pitcher would return the favor for Harden throwing at Pujols three times, finally connecting on the third. I expected it and was a little disappointed when nothing happened to protect Pujols.
After reading the Rick Hummel article today, I’m more than satisfied and have to commend the Cubs on how they handled the situation. LaRussa said he didn’t have a problem with what the Cubs did and felt it was handled in a professional way. It gave me a certain appreciation for the way both managers handled the situation, not letting it escalate into a very nasty MMA event on the telly. That being said…there is still a lot of Cards/Cubs ball to play…
TWO HANDS PLEASE. Skip is going to be the latest on my two hands watch list. If he used two hands the other night he would have caught the damn ball and not cost Wainwright the game. I can not for the life of me imagine why the Cardinals outfielders feel the need to be so cool they can’t use good fundamentals to play the game. To echo Bernie, I also don’t understand why LaRussa allows it. I see one more Cardinal outfielder drop a ball because they use one hand and I’m going to start an online petition…
New Rams OT Jason Smith
RAMS DRAFT. Right now a lot of folks are giving the Rams draft a C – or Draft looks OK, as Bernie puts it. Personally, I like what they did, at not only filling needs, but drafting players with some upside and attitude. I’ve stopped paying too much attention to the before and really only focused on the after as there are simply too many players that flame out. Don’t get me started on rookie contracts while veterans get released like used (insert what you will here).
Hey, it could be worse, we could be Raiders fans. Apparently Al Davis went into the Raiders draft war room and rearranged months of work by his staff to make players with the fastest 40 times their targets. The Raiders second round pick was a projected non draftee by every other team in the league. Still laughing about that one…
Clark
The Curious Case of Brian Barden, TWO HANDS DUNCAN!
April 20th, 2009
Brian Barden
So just who is this Brian Barden dude anyway? After the first two weeks he has folks saying Miles who (along with Thurston) with highlight defense and flashes of power nobody expected. Granted, it’s two weeks into the season, but you have to like what you see.
Barden was a sixth round draft pick out of Oregon State in 2002, earning California League all-star honors, hitting .335 in 64 games (eight homers, .502 slugging, .872 OPS). From there he just seemed to sputter and projections changed from hot prospect to maybe a utility player with some pop, an ok glove and a .280 or so average.
It’s safe to say he isn’t going to hit .400 this year, but .300 looks like a possibility, along with a great glove and some pop, he’s going to do just fine in the Miles role for this team.
TWO HANDS DUNCAN!
I’m sorry, I really like Chris Duncan, but I need someone to explain to me why he insists on using one hand to try and catch balls in the OF. I can’t remember if it was the Thursday or Friday game against the Cubs, but he butchered a ball he would have caught if he used two hands.
It gave me horror flash backs to the final game of the ‘06 series when he dropped two balls, BECAUSE HE ONLY USED ONE HAND. I get he’s in the line up for his stick, but that’s no excuse for not playing fundamental baseball. He rates as an average (really), just above actually OF. I can live with a missed ball on a dive or tough play, Chris came up as a firstbaseman, but not a can of corn. LaRussa and Co. are fundamentals freaks – I simply don’t understand why he can’t look at Dunc and say, the next time you drop a ball trying to catch it with one hand, I’m gonna bench your ass…
Clark
