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Loose ends, in no particular order

Last week I suggested that the Cardinals look at acquiring Brian Roberts as the only really viable upgrade at 2B.  A lot of people brought up Dan Uggla as an alternative but I don't think the Marlins are sellers right now.  One name that I overlooked, and who is almost certainly available, is Ray Durham.  He's hitting .302/.385/.420 in his age 36 year.  He had a down year last year in which he suffered some injuries and hit into some bad luck.  He's hitting more line drives this year and his walk rate has trended upward as his ISO has gone down (a common career path for aging power hitters).  I don't expect Durham to continue with a .385 OBP moving forward but something along the line of .280/.350/.400 seems eminently reasonable going forward.

Brian Sabean is one of the worst GMs around and given Durham's age, a package of prospects wouldn't be hard to assemble at all.  Mark Hamilton/Cody Hearther and some minor league reliever would probably be enough to pry Durham free.  The most notable downside to this is that Durham's defense has been on the decline for several years and appears to be continuing that trend.  It's possible that once his defense is accounted for he's no better than Miles, Kennedy or Ryan would be at 2nd.  I'd personally prefer him over Miles or Kennedy because he offers some semblance of power but that may not be a statistically sound evaluation.

- - - - - - - - - -

Wellemeyer is set to start tonight's game against the Phillies.  When I last checked in, I had noted that he was throwing a significantly greater number of his pitches for strikes.   400 pitches later, he's raised his strike% from 63.4% to 65%.  Pretty incredible.  The changeup is getting used more (maybe we're facing a greater # of lefties -- dunno) so that his pitch selection isn't quite as extreme as it was.  Hopefully, the arm problem isn't a long term issue.

- - - - - - - - - -

A little over a month ago , I made some predictions about 6 different people (or groups of people) that I wanted to follow up on.

The first was Ryan Franklin who continues to be a source of disagreement.  He's seen his ERA rise about a half point over the last month, mainly due to allowing some HRs.  But there's still a significant difference between his peripherals and his ERA.  His FIP is over a run higher and his BABIP is due to climb a bit more unless he starts to generate more groundballs.  He continues to make me uneasy in the closer's role and I'm just not sold on him as more than a medium leverage kind of reliever.

Kyle Lohse suffered greatly from me noting that his ERA wasn't what we should expect moving forward.  Much as with Franklin, his flyballs starting going into stands and Lohse ERA starting rising rapidly.  The good news is that he's posting the best FIP of his career despite having a career low in K/9.  Most of that is a result of fewer HRs than in previous years -- typically, this is when I would furiously type that he can't sustain that, which he can't.  He is, however, becoming a much more severe groundball pitcher which will help reduce the number of HRs.  Taking a stab in the dark, I think he's exchanged some changeups for sinkers and that is what has created the above average groundball rates.

I also mentioned that the Cardinals hadn't suffered many injuries.  Thankfully, we can stick the red baron with the blame for Pujols injury since his post on player's we'd miss was more recent than mine.  (Watch your head as I throw you under the bus, RB; wouldn't want you to hurt yourself.)

Some words of encouragement were offered on Troy Glaus, who hit his 8th HR last night and 5th HR in June.  Expect his OPS to continue to rise as his HR/FB% closes in around career norms.

Ryan Ludwick may not be hitting 40% of his balls for line drives anymore (he's down to a measly 30%) but one out of every 4 flyballs off his bat leaves the park.  That's a remarkably hight number.  To reiterate, Ludwick's numbers are real in the sense that he hasn't been particularly lucky or unlucky but that's not to say we should expect him to be a 1.000+ OPS player for the rest of the year.  (He raised his OPS 40pts from the time of my first post to last night's 1.077.)

I wish I had some explanation of what's wrong with Chris Duncan.  His BABIP all looks like career norms or better.  His batting approach seems to have gotten better in fact.  Looking at his swing% on Fangraphs, he's actually swinging at fewer pitches outside the zone.  When he does swing at a pitch outside the zone, he's making contact MORE often.  He still swings at the same percentage of pitches but would seem to have done a better job of waiting for his pitch.  In any case, he obviously didn't fare as well as I expected him too, accented by a trip to Memphis. 

- - - - - - - - - -

As the Cardinals play the Phillies, I'll be watching Chase Utley who is having a beast of a year.  Outside of Utley and Burrell, the Phillies lineup has been good but not great.  Can you imagine having Utley as our 2nd baseman -- that's like getting Pujols type production from the middle of your infield.

TGIF Cardinal Nation!

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Az, I hope

red baron wasn’t wearing his favorite Cards tee when you threw him under the bus – tire tracks can be a bear to get out in the wash. J/K :) He has taken some heat for that post already.

by cardsgirl95 on Jun 13, 2008 8:35 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Oh, Chase Utley. I think he's the best player in the National League right now.

In last night’s game, Jamie Moyer (!) had a no hitter going into the 6th. It was broken up by Scott Olson-just barely. Utley tried to fly vertically to get to a ball several feet over his head, and it glanced off of his glove. He damn near made this incredible play-expected to, seemed disappointed that he didn’t…....He’s just great all around.

She isn't crazy, she's just not impressed.

by jillsinmo on Jun 13, 2008 8:46 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pujols (when healthy) is still better imo

but Utleys value, relative to his position, is greater than Pujols.

boo cubs, hooray beer

by Raconteur on Jun 13, 2008 10:06 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Utley is damn good and all

but he is no Pujols. Playing in that bandbox doesn’t hurt him either. He would still be good not playing half of his games there, but he wouldn’t be this good

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 4:07 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Encouraging outing for Jo-el last night

If he, the Colonel, and Lohse can keep taking the ball every 5th day until Wainwright gets back then we still have a shot.

by mikedallas45 on Jun 13, 2008 9:07 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sabean

FJM did work on a rather humorous article a few weeks ago that posited that Sabean was a superior GM to Billy Beane. Yes, that Billy Beane. I think they could have just posted that article and not even bothered with it, b/c that premise is so incredibly absurd. The guy built a team around 150-year olds, and not particularly good ones either. And we used to complain about the LaRussa/Jocketty regime…at least they brought in people who weren’t yet considered fossils!

Anyway, I think Durham would be a respectable fit. His defense wouldn’t be great, obviously, but its not as if Kennedy and Miles are lighting the world on fire with the leather. He’d certainly be a better offensive force than either of them.

"Your Holiness, I'm Joseph Medwick. I, too, used to be a Cardinal."-Joe Medwick, to Pope Pius XII.

by redbirdnation8206 on Jun 13, 2008 9:08 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ah, but Kennedy IS lighting the world on fire with his leather.

He’s rated one of the best 2b in the league, defensively.

Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.

by Eckstreem on Jun 13, 2008 9:23 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Maybe he mentioned that yesterday

...during his meeting with TLR about playing time.

Very juicy stuff here:

La Russa started Aaron Miles at second base for the second straight game Thursday after Brendan Ryan played there Tuesday. La Russa said Kennedy would be in tonight’s starting lineup against Phillies righthander Kyle Kendrick but saw no reason to scrutinize the timeshare.

“Miles is getting shorted more than anyone. So he’s played back-to-back,” La Russa said. “I think Adam’s looked like he has for most of his career, but I’m going to play all four guys.”

La Russa considers shortstop Cesar Izturis in the four-man mix since he is increasingly inclined to spot Ryan there... [emphasis added]

Increasingly inclined to play Ryan at short?

Cesar: “Et tu, Ton-eh?”

by bgh on Jun 13, 2008 9:28 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i think that is good news

i said all along that the should have just gave the job to ryan with the incrediblly weak ss market, save so money

Will somebody please make iz2 bat only right handed please?

"Textbooks are Soviet propaganda" - Rev. Jerry Falwell

by elirock83 on Jun 13, 2008 12:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Miles getting shorted (pun intended?)

Izturis 60
Miles 49
Kennedy 46
Ryan 35

Or, by innings played:

Izturis 456
Kennedy 322
Miles 280
Ryan 203

Ryan was hurt earlier so his numbers aren’t accurately reflected. A better way would be % of games/innings off the DL but I’m not interested enough to do it. I still wouldn’t say Miles is getting shorted more than anyone, though.

Glad to hear TLR wants to put Ryan in more…

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 1:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

maybe, but

i’d rather pay more for someone with a little more promise down the road, e.g., o-dog or mark ellis.

If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs, perhaps you haven't grasped the situation!

by sportsman on Jun 13, 2008 10:30 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The I-Cub Isle

Cardsfan84 posted about the Memphis ownership offering their stadium for the Iowa Cubs to play since flood waters continue to rise across Iowa, and in downtown Des Moines, where the I-Cubs’ stadium sits at the intersection of the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers. The situation in places like Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Waterloo (as well as countless other communities) is catastrophic. Downtown Des Moines is looking more and more precarious, with the Birdland neighborhood being the most-threatened at this point. (I’m going to be sandbagging there a little bit later.)

To update folks on the baseball aspect of this statewide emergency, the Iowa Cubs are stating that they will play all eight of their games in Des Moines, at Principal Park, despite the rising rivers (which are supposed to crest today). Frankly, I don’t know how they are going to manage. Their stadium is fastly becoming an island with the Raccon and Des Moines Rivers forming a moat. Right now, the field is dry, but we Des Moines-area natives need only look back fifteen years for a sobering reminder of the fate that could await the stadium. You can see video from a helicopter of how high the waters have gotten so far this morning here in their video viewer.

The heartening aspect of this set of tragedies is the way that communities have come together, locked arms, and worked to keep one another high and dry. The goodwill has not been restricted to within Iowa’s borders and the offer from the Memphis ownership is deeply appreciated. Right now, however, there are more pressing concerns than baseball. Say a prayer for Iowans today. The rivers are supposed to crest and we’ll need all the help we can get.

by bgh on Jun 13, 2008 9:10 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Be safe out there, bgh

You (and the rest of Iowa) are in my prayers.

by cardsgirl95 on Jun 13, 2008 9:22 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good luck!!!

After experiencing the ‘93 floods upstream in Ames I know how hard that can be. My only advice is not to fill the bags too full – any smaller people down the line will greatly thank you.

by birdo rojo on Jun 13, 2008 10:21 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Are You a Fellow Stater?

I just graduate from ISU in May….

New Member of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by cyko42 on Jun 13, 2008 12:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yep

Congrats – my graduation was a few years ago though.

by birdo rojo on Jun 13, 2008 12:12 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I-Cubs postponed their game tonight

I could not believe their decision yesterday to try to play here this weekend. In addition to the water headed toward the ballpark - and it got there this morning, as the photos show - trying to play requires at least some police presence and a diversion of resources, however minimal, that ought to be applied elsewhere. In other parts of the city there are people about to lose their homes this morning, if that has not happened already. The voluntary evacuations in those neighborhoods will soon be mandatory.

It’s much worse in Cedar Rapids. Much worse. On the whole, Des Moines is doing reasonably well considering the incredible amount of water surging through here. Still, it’s quite possible things could get much uglier before it’s over.

The Quad Cities ballpark must have water very close to it, too. Last I looked, they were planning to keep playing there as well. That was a few days ago.

by Youneverknow on Jun 13, 2008 11:22 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

"Good but not great"

Last I heard, Rollins was leading the league in doubles since his return from the DL. I mean, I’m not saing we should give this guy an MVP award or anything silly like that - oh wait - but he’s still a really good player and he’s swinging a good stick.

by mojowo11 on Jun 13, 2008 9:11 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

What I think is wild

is that Howard already has almost 100 Ks. the man is just a K machine.

by sdrone on Jun 13, 2008 9:13 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

My friend and I were discussing this

It was part of a larger conversation about young players signing long-term deals while still under team control. When Prince Fielder came up, my friend stated, “The reason they can’t sign Fielder is because he wants Ryan Howard money when Ryan Howard isn’t even worth Ryan Howard money.”

Ryan Howard’s 2008 line: .204 BA / .306 OBP / .436 SLG / .742 OPS / 15 HR / 45 RBI / $10M Salary

Granted, this is selective, but there is no arguing that Ryan Howard, so far this season, is not a $10M player, unless you value strikeouts as sdrone already pointed out.

by bgh on Jun 13, 2008 9:20 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

sad...

I have Howard, Dunn, and Sexson on a fantasy team—then someone told me the strikeouts category was for PITCHERS…awwwww shucks, thought I was running away with that one…..................

"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller

by fourstick on Jun 13, 2008 12:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Et tu, Az?

What this book presupposes is, maybe he didn't?

by the red baron on Jun 13, 2008 9:13 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It's ok Baron

What Az doesn’t know is I’m driving the bus. When he throws you out in front I plan on swerving to miss you and hit him. After all the bus might kill you, we’ll just need to put the azruavatar unit back together after I hit him. Can we make him look like a flying saucer, that would be cool.

"Do what you want to the women and children but leave me alone"- George Carlin

by That's a Winner on Jun 13, 2008 11:26 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Roberts

I loved the Roberts idea when it was floated until I saw the initial UZR numbers for 2008. Roberts was among the worst at 2B. Kennedy was among the best.

Who caught my eye was Mark Ellis. He is a free agent after this year and offers a bit more offense than the current 2B on the Cards.

by bdief on Jun 13, 2008 9:42 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I could get

on board with the Ellis idea.

by cardsgirl95 on Jun 13, 2008 9:49 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ellis reminds to much of Kennedy...

Diminutive 2B from a American League team in CA w/ career average of .270/.280 in his early 30s…

I fear it could end up being Kennedy part II. With that being said I have never really seen him play and he does seem to have a little sock in his bat but I thought Kennedy did too.

I would pass unless you could get him for spare parts and I’ not sure Beane would just give him up. Maybe we could trade a spare OF at the AA or AAA level.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 10:30 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

UZR

Everything I’ve read cautions that you should be even more wary of small sample sizes with fielding metrics than you are with batting metrics. After all, he’s got Duncan among the best in LF so far this year and do we really believe that? Roberts was middle of the pack in 2007 in RZR and 1st in 2006, so unless our scouts think he’s really lost a step compared to last year I wouldn’t be too worried about the defense.

by mikedallas45 on Jun 13, 2008 9:53 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ellis

I forgot to add that Ellis has really nice RZR rankings all the way back to 2005, I could get on board with him.

by mikedallas45 on Jun 13, 2008 9:55 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Typically the confidence level for one year of offensive data

is the same as TWO years of defensive data (or so MGL has stated previously). So the error bars are much larger with defensive metrics—even when you have a full season of data.

by azruavatar on Jun 13, 2008 10:18 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Mark Ellis has been quoted that he would prefer to stay in Oakland.

He may not even file for free agency. Ha, Beane could trade him at the deadline and have him re sign with them in the off season.

She isn't crazy, she's just not impressed.

by jillsinmo on Jun 13, 2008 10:39 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

B Ryan

I am admittedly not a saber guy, nor would I even know where to look to find certain information. That’s why I rely on you fine people.

Can someone explain the argument against B Ryan? As a sophomoric fan, it seems like his glove has improved and he hits as well, maybe even with more promise, than any other platoon option. What’s his major downfall at the moment?

by mattysha on Jun 13, 2008 9:52 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ryan

Compared to last year, his ISO is down and his K rate is up. I prefer him over Miles as the backup 2B/SS but he’s not exactly banging down the door to become an everyday player. What it basically comes down to for me is that we have 4 replacement-level players at 2B and SS right now. They each have their own pluses and minuses, but none of them should really be getting more than 300 ABs a season on a playoff-caliber team.

by mikedallas45 on Jun 13, 2008 10:02 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

his defense

is not too shabby

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 2:11 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

True

But (from all accounts I’ve seen) his attitude is bad, like he feels entitled or something. He doesn’t hit. Not for average, not for power, for nothing. I just don’t see how he has a place on this team.

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 2:20 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah

I’m part of the Kennedy DFA ASAP crew as well

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 3:27 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I was just looking that up

and I can’t figure out the argument against him. His OPS is better than any of the other options and his defense appears to be just as good—at least at short. The sample size at 2nd is so small it can’t be reliable but those numbers are considerably worse than Miles and Kennedy. Seems to be a sample size issue as much as anything.

He’s w/o a doubt our best MI option vs. lefties and probably, based on the numbers, should be our everyday SS.

There is one major caveat to all of this: he probably deserves to start based on the fact that we have nobody better. His numbers aren’t outstanding so I’ll not say that he DEFINITELY should be starting over Izturis or Kennedy/Miles (except vs. lefties). He is, as mikedallas says, about replacement level but he appears to be slightly better than any of the other 3 options. If we had even decent middle infielders, he’d be the utility guy.

by chuckb on Jun 13, 2008 10:26 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

He’s the only guy of that bunch that could hit .300/.350/.420 and people wouldn’t be surprised. Not saying that’s going to happen, but none of the other MI could hit for that over a full season at this point. So he should be starting until he’s hitting worse than Miles and Kennedy.

I love the fact that Dan and Al keep bringing up the fact that Miles is “clutch” and that’s why he’s playing. By definition, shouldn’t a “clutch” hitter be the #1 pinch hitter for a ballclub, similar to what Mark Loretta did for years in the NL? If that’s why he’s playing, fellas, then it’s be much better to leave him on the bench as a late substitution.

"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller

by fourstick on Jun 13, 2008 12:20 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah, good point

Miles should be our go-to pinch hitter, since no one else is getting the job done there. he’s experienced enough to be level-headed in those type of situations. I think Ryan is definitely capable of hitting .300, and should be starting… but I’ve been saying that all season.

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 2:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Mitch Harris...

Was told to report to his ship. Oh well. It was fun while it lasted.

by Evilfrog on Jun 13, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

May be different after election

He was most likely going to serve 2 years in some form or another (i.e., David Robinson), and it seemed very unlikely that he would get the type of deal the Lions NFL draftee got since he would only be in the minor leagues. Not surprising to see him sent out.

It has been said that this decision is made by the Secretary of Navy who is a Bush appointee. Depending on who wins the election and whether that administration declares us to be at war or not (no comment) this decision could change.

I wish him all the best.

by enoscountry on Jun 13, 2008 10:39 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 10:51 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

eh

He went to a top rated school on my dime. Im not to upset that the Goverment is asking him to preform his part of the bargin.

I’ll wish him a short and safe trip.

by Evilfrog on Jun 13, 2008 11:09 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

It was another lottery ticket...

Mo likes to gamble.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 1:45 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well, right

i guess that makes sense; every draft is about calculated risks. i just hope nobody is surprised by it, but i’m guessing nobody really is.

by mattybobo on Jun 13, 2008 1:53 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Mr. Harris

Godspeed Mr. Harris, and thanks for serving our great country!

Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.

by Eckstreem on Jun 13, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah

hope so… although not sure how much luck that requires…

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 2:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Ryan is an unknown commodity at this time

He hasn’t been given the chance to prove his worth or unworth. He has shown some signs of having a flair for getting a hit or making something happen in key spots when he does play..enough that I personally would like to see a little more of him before entering into discussions of trading prospects for a 36 year old 2nd basemen that is currently playing over his head.
The biggest handicap to seeing what level Ryan is capable of reaching and maintaining is the fact that kennedy is still on the Cardinal roster. The first step to solving the MI problem IMO, should be to release Kennedy and go from there.

by ridgesee on Jun 13, 2008 10:33 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

another reason to give him more playing time right now

is to see if he’s a viable MI starter next year

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 2:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would love to have Ugla but seriously why would FLA give him to us & at what cost..

Roberts would be nice but how about Polanco???

If the Tigers do tear it down(I think they can still make a run) would they move Placido? I would love to have him back home .

Also maybe no Ugla but can we talk to the Rangers about Kinsler? He seems a tick off on Defense but so is Ugla and you can improve defense with a fungoe and an Oquendo.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 10:54 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Kinsler

We’d have to give up some serious pitching prospects for the Rangers to consider moving Kinsler. I’m pretty sure they’re focusing on getting rid of Blalock (if he ever gets of the DL).

by launchshuttle on Jun 13, 2008 11:16 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

chris duncan and white elephants

you all are going to hate me for this but am i the only one who feels like there is a white elephant in the room when we talk about duncan’s mysterious loss of a power stroke?

How depressing is it being you? Is it closer to being a lifelong cubs fan or being born without lips? - Janitor

by themanthemyth on Jun 13, 2008 11:06 AM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Good one

that is, at least I learned what a white elephant is today. ;-)

by Woodwork on Jun 13, 2008 11:12 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I doubt it's steroid related

he’s not even elevating balls any more. If he were hitting a bunch of warning track shots now, then i’d agree that it may be a steroid issue. He just got knocked completely out of whack with the double hernia and his confidence is shot as well.

boo cubs, hooray beer

by Raconteur on Jun 13, 2008 11:26 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

Exactly. Without core strength (i.e. his guts), he can’t transfer power from his legs to his bat, which is the prototypical way to generate power from a swing. If you look at the guy, he isn’t “cut.” He’s not all biceps and shoulders, so he must have been depending on those legs in the past.

I wouldn’t expect him to be recovered for another year, and not without some pretty intense core body work.

"Attaway to stomp 'em. Stomp the piss out of 'em. Stomp 'em when they're down. Kick 'em and stomp 'em. Attaway to go boys. Pound that old Budweiser into you and go get them tomorrow." -- Joe Schultz

by taiko on Jun 13, 2008 11:50 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

for the sake of argument

aren’t core injuries like oblique strains and hernias the new post-steroid era injury as players are trying to make up for lost torque?

How depressing is it being you? Is it closer to being a lifelong cubs fan or being born without lips? - Janitor

by themanthemyth on Jun 13, 2008 11:54 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

for the sake of argument

Have you seen him crash into stuff before? Take a bad route where he awakwardly stubbles around. Im really surprised he hasn’t managed to decapitate himself yet.

by Evilfrog on Jun 13, 2008 12:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

point taken

the furious dry humping of inanimate objects could also be a contributing factor.

How depressing is it being you? Is it closer to being a lifelong cubs fan or being born without lips? - Janitor

by themanthemyth on Jun 13, 2008 2:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

As a matter of principle,

it is usually good to root for the National League over the American League in any circumstance (Interleague, All-Star game, World Series). But it is not a hard and fast rule. I plan on rooting for the Jays to smack down the Cubs this weekend.

by cardsgirl95 on Jun 13, 2008 11:30 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The only time I root for the Astros

is when they are playing the Cubs. Even then, it’s not so much rooting for the Astros as it is cheering against the Cubs.

by launchshuttle on Jun 13, 2008 11:34 AM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Question for the locals

I am driving down from Peoria for the game tonight and I am hoping that it doesn’t storm too bad. I have been checking accuweather and noaa and it seems that there is about a 50% chance of T-storms tonight. Since this is the Phils only trip to St. Louis this year, do you think that they will try to get the game in tonight even with inclement weather? With gas prices being so high I don’t want to make the trip for nothing seeing as I only get to a couple games a year.

by FredbirdisaDork on Jun 13, 2008 12:07 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Probably not

since it’s the first game of a series. If it was the last game, yes, they’d knock themselves out to get it in.

My wife and I have a project of seeing major-league games in all 30 teams’ home parks, and pursuing this, we saw a White Sox “game” this April when the temperature at game time was 38 degrees and a steady rain was falling. Why? Because it was the last game of a series with an AL East team (Toronto, IIRC) that wouldn’t be coming back. They therefore felt obliged to get the game in, even though conditions would have been disgusting even for football, let alone baseball. By the time we left in the 8th inning, there probably weren’t 500 people in the seats.

by StanTheManFan on Jun 13, 2008 12:13 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Dang it

Well I know that the field drains well and that the forecast is for off and on thunderstorms, but it’s my fiancee’s first game in St. Louis and I really hope that the weather doesn’t prevent it from happening. I guess I’ll just cross my fingers and hope for the best!

by FredbirdisaDork on Jun 13, 2008 12:17 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Tell her welcome to the Nation!

Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.

by Eckstreem on Jun 13, 2008 12:30 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Sigh....

Sadly she is a Cub’s fan…. I’m hoping to convert her by overexposure to good baseball :)

by FredbirdisaDork on Jun 13, 2008 12:33 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

And you married her anyway?

She must be one hell of a woman.

Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.

by Eckstreem on Jun 13, 2008 12:41 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Edit: Asked her to marry you anyway?

Baseball's only fun if you're playing it, watching it, or thinking about it.

by Eckstreem on Jun 13, 2008 12:41 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Yes she is one hell of a woman!

As much as I like to joke about it, I sincerely hope that there are not people out there who would judge someone based on what baseball team they root for. She’s just a little misguided… that’s all :)

by FredbirdisaDork on Jun 13, 2008 12:47 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

For what it's worth

The local weather going said that it should clear up by game time.

by Evilfrog on Jun 13, 2008 1:37 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

oddly

the phils come back to busch in july . . . a bit of a quirk by the masters of scheduling

who will be the new MV3?

by sprfldcard on Jun 13, 2008 2:52 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Bud Selig is the new El Nino

Blame everything on him

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 5:10 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Dayan Viciedo, the 19 year old Cuban defector

apparently, the Cardinals are one of 7 teams that have shown interest in him. He is currently petitioning MLB to be labeled as an ‘undrafted free agent’ because he says he was in the USA BEFORE the draft actually took place.

by Hardcore Legend on Jun 13, 2008 2:26 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

let amaury marti talk to selig alone for 5 minutes

and it will be a done deal. but bud might pee his pants, a lot.

by mattybobo on Jun 13, 2008 2:42 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

speaking of cuban players

if you haven’t had a chance to read Michael Lewis’ newest piece on cuban baseball, check it out. It’s a pretty amazing piece of sportswriting.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 2:47 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

just going by the RZR numbers

and assuming the challenge is between kennedy and Durham, I don’t think Durham would be enough of an offensive upgrade to be worth trading for.

The difference between him and adam kennedy so far this year has been about 14 runs, offensively, using BP’s BRAR numbers; durham has only had 197 PA’s and Kennedy has only had 163 PA’s. Assuming they each get 350 more PA’s and perform at the same levels, Durham would be worth about 27 runs more than kennedy over the rest of the season, or about 3 wins.

Defensively, assuming Durham really is as bad as his RZR says, Kennedy will have made 11 more in-the-zone plays (durham’s .735 RZR * Kennedy’s 87 chances – kennedy’s actual plays) to date than Durham, and since kennedy has made 13 more OOZ plays in less playing time (durham has only made 4 OOZ plays, so his range is really much worse than his already terrible RZR would make you think) it’s safe to assume a margin there as well. That could lead to more than 57 plays not made over the next 94 games [162/68 * (13+11)]—in fact, since kennedy hasn’t played anywhere near every day, it could be even higher than that. Though of course we’d be using a defensive replacement every single game (which would potentially cut into the offensive value as well).

I can never remember the exact translation between “plays not made” and runs, but 57 plays not made should come very close to making a mere 27 runs of offense irrelevant. I guess you could assume they are all singles and then multiply by the linear run weight of a single (.48); if you did that, he’d cost us 27 runs. Yikes.

(and an interesting bit of synchronicity there ;)

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 2:44 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'd rather see Beliard again before Durham.

This Kinsler guy looks alright how do we get him from Texas?

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 3:44 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Belliard > Durham

Belly played really good D here in STL and we did win a championship with him. I think he would fit right back in with this club. He seemed to be a nice loose clubhouse presence as well. With they way Washington is tanking and the fact that Belly’s contract runs through 2009, the Cards should be able to get him for a Jon Jay or Shane Robinson plus maybe an A ball pitcher. Here is his contract situation from Cot’s:

Ronnie Belliard 2b
2 years/$3.5M (2008-09)

signed extension 7/23/07
08:$1.6M, 09:$1.9M

1 year/$0.75M (2007)
contract purchased 3/07
may earn up to additional $0.75M in performance bonuses based on games (to 140), starts (to 140), plate appearances (to 650)

signed as a free agent 2/07 (minor-league contract)

1 year/$3M (2005), plus $4M 2006 club option
club exercised $4M 2006 club option 11/05
05:$2.5M, 06:$4M club option ($0.5M buyout)
re-signed 12/04 (avoided arbitration)
1 year/$1.1M (2004), signed as a free agent 12/03
1 year/$1.65M (2002) (avoided arbitration 1/02)
agent: Dominic Torres, Beverly Hills Sports Council

ML service: 8.162

by indakind on Jun 13, 2008 3:51 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

bring back Belliard!

always liked that guy

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 4:03 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

My favorite thing about belliard

was the parade after winning the world series. He was in the back of the truck video taping the crowd. I love that stuff out of players.

by hoofhearted-pujols on Jun 13, 2008 4:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Last April

I wrote a fan post about needing a 2B’er that can hit. I was willing to wait and see then and now I figured out a couple of things. I diffenantly do not want the Cards to trade for an aging second baseman. Roberts is signed for ‘09 at 8mil, and Durham is just too old. If we trade we need a guy who is still in is 20’s. I have not yet given up on Hoff. He has not lit up the stat sheet with any kinda numbers, but since June (9 games I know, I know) he has had a little more pop. OPS of .887. Kennedy doesn’t have much time turn on his bat, but why make a trade that doesn’t solve the problem long term.
I still think we should wait and see. We have time even with Albert on the DL. The last thing that Mo should do is act out of desperation. Lets STILL wait and see.

by nybirdfan on Jun 13, 2008 3:05 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah

unfortunately it doesn’t seem that there’s any good answer to the MI hitting problem

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 3:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I'd sure like to see

brian barden get some time at second in memphis, though.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 3:28 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

Although if he can handle 3B and he is playing everday at SS would he need to play a few games at 2B or is he ready to go?

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 3:48 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

he'd need to get reps

moving to the keystone takes some getting used to when turning double plays because you’re not going towards first base when you catch the ball.

"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller

by fourstick on Jun 13, 2008 7:24 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

another option

would be a trade for jhonny peralta and move him to second. In fact, peralta might be a tremendous buy-low candidate, since he’s been hitting into TERRIBLE luck- just a .247 BABIP despite peripherals that would support a .300+ BABIP (historically he’s been around .321). His .220ish batting average is a fluke and will almost certainly recover.

The indians are going to be sellers and have several very good MI prospects as well.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 4:38 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Don't you think that the Indians and Antonetti would know

that he’s hitting into bad luck?

I feel like that was one of the flagship organizations in the stats movement.. Is that accurate?

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 5:12 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

almost certainly

my opinion of the Indian’s front office isn’t nearly as high as others, but I don’t think they are completely incompetent (and not looking at BABIP data in 2008 would be a sure sign of incompetence). I do think we dodged a bullet with antonetti, but the point is more that we match up well, not that we can fleece them; we have OF’s, they need OF’s, they have MIF’s, we need MIF’s. Something like what was proposed below for Kinsler should actually be enough to get peralta, I would think.

They aren’t going to win this year or next and Peralta gets increasingly expensive, and from what I understand his defense is not good enough to keep him at SS for the long term, making him less and less valuable with time. He’s middle of the pack by RZR, and not on MGL’s “worst SS list by UZR”, so that may be wrong, though he’s ranked #25 defensively this year, by the plus/minus stuff on BJO.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 5:34 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I still think they can climb back in it this year

I think it’s a little premature to say they aren’t going to win it next year, though, but I see your point about matching up well with them. I’d be glad to take Jhonny on.

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 6:42 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ok

But if he could be moved to second, then why haven’t the Indians done that? They have all kinds of problems at 2B right now…

"I just wish that the late Harry Caray were still around so I could hear him mispronounce 'Kosuke Fukudome' every fukun' night" -- Dennis Miller

by fourstick on Jun 13, 2008 7:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

The Hoff

The thing to watch with the Hoff is his ISO. His plate discipline is good and he makes contact, he has walked more than he K’ed at every stop in ‘05-’07. However, he’s got to be able to at least put one in the gap every once in a while to keep pitchers from just overpowering him. His ISO for April was a Kennedy-esque .070 but since then it’s at a much more useful .129, if he can keep that up I think he’s a viable option.

by mikedallas45 on Jun 13, 2008 3:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Hoff is never an option...

not from the Cardinals brass point of view. If they considered him even a fringe prospect, he would have been up last year.

Start Ludwick

by DiscoJer on Jun 13, 2008 3:36 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 3:45 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs, perhaps you haven't grasped the situation!

by sportsman on Jun 13, 2008 8:01 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

+1

If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs, perhaps you haven't grasped the situation!

by sportsman on Jun 13, 2008 8:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I hate the 4-some infield as much as y'all

It takes up a roster spot that can be used for a relief arm, when tony burns it once a week

by from First to Third on Jun 13, 2008 3:40 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Would you...

Send Boggs, Reyes, Hoff for Kinsler?

Or

IF you were Texas would you say go pound dirt?

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 3:46 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Texas's GM would laugh and then punch Mozeliak in the face just for wasting his time

Honestly, what makes you think that trade proposal is even remotely fair for Texas?

boo cubs, hooray beer

by Raconteur on Jun 13, 2008 3:54 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   1 recs

I was just trying to start a convo

It is week to say the least.

Let’s say Dunc gets his power stroke back and starts hitting. They look like they could use a 1B and I’m sure he could DH when Milton is not.

Duncan, Garcia, Motte for Kinsler?

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 4:09 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

now that is way too much

Garcia has to be a top 100 prospect next year. Hell Garcia alone might get Kinsler. I still wouldnt do it.
Now Duncan, Motte, Reyes, and Walters might get it done

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 4:19 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

With Todd & McClellan on top of Garcia and Wagonmaker, Carp, Welley,Piniero...

not to mention the 1 armed duo of Clement and Mulder something has to give. If we can net a core player like Kinsler who is still young then I would part with Garcia.

Kinsler

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 4:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Duncan, Garcia, Motte

would not get it done.

Kinsler is a rare talent with a very team-friendly contract; the ranger are rightfully planning building around him. It would take something like wainwright to talk them into moving him.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 4:30 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I consider Wainwright and because I don't want to that is probably what they would

want. I would actually think about that for awhile with all the talent we appear to have at the moment.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 4:42 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Key phrase

“appear to have”

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 5:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

rare talent?

really? I usually agree with you sleepy, but I can’t right here. Kinsler is damn good, but I reserve the rare talent tag for players like Pujols. I do like Kinsler, but like Utley, I don’t think people take the ballpark factor into consideration as much as they should.

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 6:08 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

there is some ballpark effect

his batting average seems to be much higher at home, but Kinsler has 7 HR on the road and only 2 at home. And his OPS+, which adjusts for park effects, is 130; as a second baseman, that is pretty elite.

(checking B-R PI, and he is having the 14th best season by OPS+ for a second baseman since 1907, and 5 of the seasons above him are kent, 3 are utley, and one is Uggla this year). So at the very leaast, we’d be “buying high”.

And he’s 26, and therefore likely to improve, and is signed through 2012 for less per year than we’re paying Kennedy next year. That’s going to be expensive.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 6:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would love to have him

that line about having the 14th best season just about sums him up, he is good, not great

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 6:25 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

14th best

of all 2B in the last 101 years? That’s pretty great.

by liam on Jun 13, 2008 6:26 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

boy did i fuck up there

why did I read that as 1997?

I was thinking “wow sleepy, really pulling a lame stat out of your ass there”

All that being said, I would trade almost anybody in the system outside of Rasmus or Garcia for him.

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 6:34 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lol

Ehh, that Ted Williams fella, he was aight

I kid because I love

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 6:43 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

crap, so did I

embarassingly, your comment is more true than not- I just realized the list i generated had a flag set for “active” players only. I was wondering why guys like Hornsby didn’t show up; that’s why. Grumble.

So anyway, he’s actually having the 156th best season, which over 100 years is still pretty elite; there are only 2 2B’s having better seasons this year, utley and uggla, and only 7 currently-active 2B have ever had a season better than the one he is having.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 7:38 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

"would not get it done"

I should rephrase this- i should have said “should not” get it done. You do have to keep in mind that Jon Daniels is a terrible trader, and Mo seems to be pretty good. Of course if Mo could work a trade like this out, I’d start stumping for him for the GM hall of fame.

(reference rule #2 in this list of guidelines for discussing trade rumors here, btw, link courtesy of MLBTR)

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 7:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

rules # 2 sucks

as far as rules go, it should have never made the list* (*)

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 7:19 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Reyes, Motte, Dunc and Kennedy???

Heck – throw in Kennedy and say we’ll pay his entire salary. We’d end up doing that anyway once he got DFAd with Kinsler’s arrival so no loss for the Cards.

That way Texas woul’d have someone who can at least man 2B and they may hold out hope that Kennedy could return to his days of decent performance in the AL West. It’s hard to remember but this guy was once fairly decent (not great, but at least a +).

by birdo rojo on Jun 13, 2008 4:30 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

They'd listen for pitching...

but I don’t think it would happen. Kinsler’s one of the players they are trying to develop into one of the fans’ favorites. So aside from not having a real replacement for 2B, that would also be a factor. As a Rangers’ fan, it would be nice for the Rangers to actually trade a BAT for an ARM once in a while… They always need pitching, yet they keep trading away pitching prospects for bats. Go figure.

by launchshuttle on Jun 13, 2008 4:31 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

ok, now that I look at that

to quote cleveland
‘that just looks silly peter”

now if only the rangers would hire his cardinals fan as their GM

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 6:04 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would definitely send them

And we would be told to get lost.

Kinsler IS NOT on the market. He is a very good lead off guy. Already 17 SB’s, 57 runs, .311 avg., and 9 homers to boot. He is only 25(soon to be 26). If the Rangers are sellers it isn’t that type of player. I would say out of their whole roster him and Hamilton would be the two completely untouchables. It isn’t going to happen. If we don’t want to go old at that position then we have what we have. Nobody wants mid 20 year old prospects for a mid 20 year old that is already producing. Doesn’t make sense.

by hoofhearted-pujols on Jun 13, 2008 3:58 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I would think they would listen

Texas always in search of pitching. Of course I think the only way they listen to anything for Kinsler is if they fall out of contention

* sarcasm might be involved in this comment

by mattyfrommo on Jun 13, 2008 4:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I give up I can't think of anything they would want for Kinsler that I would give up....

I would still try some young pitching to get it done with a vet or two.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Jun 13, 2008 4:16 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He also

has Wellemeyer on his list of pitchers for the All-Star game.

by cardsgirl95 on Jun 13, 2008 4:48 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

yeah

major kudos to both those guys

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 5:15 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Would you guys rather have Pujols or Utley?

I think that’s a fair question to ask. Pujols is clearly the better pure hitter, but getting Utley’s production out of second base is pretty huge. Opens up a spot at 1B for a lesser Pujols.

by TheBirds on Jun 13, 2008 5:07 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

No stats

I don’t have any stats to back this up, but I guess I feel that Pujols will keep hitting, and his defense at 1B won’t slip as he gets older.

How many power hitting 2B’s have kept their hitting and defense as they get into their 30’s?

by djsmokyc on Jun 13, 2008 5:12 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Pujols

unbelievable defense, tons of hitting ability all over the board. now if you put injuries into the picture, it’s a toss up

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 5:14 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well

kinda… if you’re saying everpresent elbow concerns. he’s tough enough though that the usual injury will not effect him (it remains to be seen how that foot if affecting his calf though)

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 5:23 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

interesting trends for the cardinals

according to ESPN’s “accuscore” system (insider), the cardinals are 5-0 when they are considered “underdogs” at home, and 19-13 when the underdog, overall. When we are “expected” to win the game, we’re 21-21. We’re also 21-13 at home overall and 5-1 when Welle starts at home.

Anyway, we’re underdogs tonight, even with Cy Colonel on the mound, so might be a good night to put a buck on the home team…

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 5:14 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Now that you've pointed that trend out

It’s bound to reverse :P

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 5:16 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

heh

it’s like trying to study a quark

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 5:21 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Are we really dogs

We are both 40-28, we’re at home (although these are the 2 teams in the NL for which that doesn’t really matter), and I’d say we hands down win the starting pitching matchup (most important aspect of game IMO).

I don’t understand.

by TheBirds on Jun 13, 2008 5:19 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

well

If you look at it from the standpoint of low expectations to start the season, we’re an underdog

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 5:22 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

i guess it depends

The accuscore dudes simulate the games 10,000 times and use that to figure their lines; in their simulations, the phillies won 51.9% of the time. so we are just barely underdogs, by their system.

Interestingly, below that they have a “gameday line” which says the cardinals are slight favorites, and the trend using “gameday lines” says that we’re actually 22-16 when favorites and 17-12 when underdogs.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 5:43 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think if we pitch around Utley

we might be more like 50/50

what are gameday lines?

Ankiel is Jesus!

by Cards Fan in Chitown on Jun 13, 2008 5:49 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I think

they’re something that got Mex run out of town.

by liam on Jun 13, 2008 5:55 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

chortle

Those Pilgrims ain't lookin' so proud now...

by giveml on Jun 13, 2008 9:03 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Get back to me on Sunday

This is our first real test of the season, IMO

The Rays and Cubs in early May were too early to judge, if you ask me.

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 6:45 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

curiouser and curiouser

(replying to myself, ack)

but how can we be 21-21 when favored, 19-13 when the underdog, and 40-28 overall? Double-checking, and that’s what the web page says.

"the hardest decision to make is to do nothing; there is a terrible temptation to interfere." -gen patton

by SleepyCA on Jun 13, 2008 6:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Lidge

Too bad Pujols is out when Lidge is coming to town, eh?

So says, Titus Pullo (formerly The Dude)

by Titus Pullo on Jun 13, 2008 6:08 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

He was supposedly un-Pujolsed in 2006

But I feel like Pujols did it to him again in a game that season, too. When you’ve got someone’s number, you’ve got someone’s number. I’m sure Lidge is more than happy that Al is nowhere near the plate tonight.

Maybe we can Ludwick or Glaus Lidge this weekend, eh?

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 6:47 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Technically the peripherals are basically identical...

"Regression to the mean is so much more fun to watch when it’s a Cub who is regressing." SleepyCA

by joker24 on Jun 13, 2008 7:02 PM EDT to parent up reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Go Blue Jays tonight!

Scotty Ro and Hustlestein could really help their old club tonight.

Weird that Jimmy, Scotty, and David will all be on the field together tonight, none wearing the BOB…

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country
DFA Adam Kennedy!
Track 'em Tigers - An SB Nation Blog for Auburn Tigers fans

by Mr Redbird on Jun 13, 2008 6:55 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

Duncan?

I don’t know if this was already said, don’t feel like reading 160+ comments. He has better patience this year and is not swinging at balls out of the zone. The thing that bothers me is that he is not swinging for the fences, he seems like he is trying to be a high average/ on base guy. He is more valuable when he swings for an 8 run HR then when he shortens his swing trying not to strike out. He needs to go back to the Adam Dunn mentality of HR or bust, maybe he strikes out 175 times but if he has a 270+ average and 35-40 HRs who cares?

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

by showmejoe on Jun 13, 2008 8:11 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

I have a bad feeling that this team is going to go down hill real quick here

cus their schedule is ridiculously hard and I just do not see them being succesful without Albert

They say I look like yadier molina

by ANDYAK47 on Jun 13, 2008 9:23 PM EDT reply reply actions actions   0 recs

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