Game 147 Open Thread: September 16, 2006

by lboros on Sep 16, 2006 1:55 AM EDT in St. Louis Cardinals News

carpenter morris
14-6, 2.84 10-13, 4.71

programming info: i'm off to phoenix for the day; conference, buncha historians. the past, the past, the past, the past . . . . . . i'll have a moment at midday to check the comment load on this thread; if it looks necessary, i'll open a contingency overflow thread before the game starts.

i love today's pitching matchup, but i'm glad i'm missing the game; can't bear to root against morris. the crowd should give him a standing ovation -- he was great, even if he didn't quite get us there. here's a quick reminder of what he did for the franchise.

after the hr outburst last night, i decided to status-check the cardinals' homerun differential, on which i've been keeping an eye since this post in late june. at that time they'd been outhomered by 21 on the season; horrid. but they're whittled the deficit down to 9, which still isn't good but is a whole lot less bad. they're no longer the worst in this category among the playoff contenders:

	hr	opp hr	diff
mets	186	164	+22
giants	149	133	+16
marlins	165	151	+14
phillies	196	188	+8
cardinals	165	174	-9
padres	145	155	-10
dodgers	129	140	-11

dodgers won last night, by the way, 3-1; the two ageless wonders put on quite a show, with maddux prevailing on the strength of 7 one-hit innings. . . . . so anyway, the hr differential. how have the cardinals closed the gap --- by hitting more homers or yielding fewer of them? survey says: both.

	hr	opp hr	diff
april	29	28	+1
may	26	26	--
june	16	40	-24
july	35	30	+5
august	39	39	--
september	20	13	+7

the cardinals have a chance to achieve their highest monthly hr output in september, and their lowest hr allowance. i'm sure i am not the only one who didn't know the cards have been outhomered only 1 month out of 6 this year; it seems like they get outhomered every week. anyway, they're +12 in home runs since july 1; take whatever encouragement you want to from that.

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Comments

You got that right, LB

While I don't want Matty to win today, it's tough rooting for him to lose. He meant a hell of a lot to the club for a decade and seemed like a genuinely nice dude. I bought his jersey towards the end of last season just b/c I wanted to get one while I still could... that'll be a nice vintage one someday.

Plus he used to come to the plate to Phish's "Weekapaug Groove" and that always made my friends and me unbelievably happy.

Best of luck to ya, Matty Mo (after this game, of course).

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 2:49 AM EDT reply actions

Agreed

It pains me to root against him--and I only have to do it twice this season.

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions

Matty Mo

Cards fans should give Morris a nice hand tonight as long as it doesn't lead to a shut-out Giants win or something.

I don't know the figures, but I have a strong feeling that our team hasn't done well after blow-out wins. Anybody have hard facts on how the birds on the bat have done after scoring 10+ runs in a win. It just seems like the offense has been so inconsistent this year.

Pujols just did WHAT...

by gforce on Sep 16, 2006 2:50 AM EDT reply actions

Too bad no one within WB-11s

range can see this game tomorrow. Thanks FOX!

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:25 AM EDT reply actions

Sorry...

...should read:

No one outside of WB11's range.

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:26 AM EDT up reply actions

huh?

i'm confused.

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Unless you get WB11

on your cable service or over antenna, you can't watch this game today because of FOX's national black out.

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions

Darn it

I was looking fwd to this game.

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions

and cincy airs the CWS game...

I'm hoping this is an error because this really pisses me off.

Is FOX airing this game regionally?

question for other subscribers: can we watch blacked out games after the game airs without an extra fee?

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions

Yes

Suscribers can watch blacked-out games after it airs without paying extra, but sometimes it takes them a while to make it available. It's usually just an hour or two, but there have been a couple of games this season that were blacked out and weren't available until the next day or so.

They're showing us the As-Sox game in San Francisco. Boo.

by six on Sep 16, 2006 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions

thanks

I've been looking fwd to this game, not just because of Carp, but b/c Morris' return to St. Louis

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:09 PM EDT up reply actions

At least

you didn't have to watch the umpteenth Yankees Red Sox game here in DC. So sick of the "storied rivalry" crap.

by stlmapman on Sep 16, 2006 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

i hear that

im in new york and if i hear one more thing about the "biggest rivalry in sports" im going to strike in front of steinbrenner's office

by MarcGldstn on Sep 16, 2006 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions

biggest rivalry in sports

Next to the Cards-Cubs, is UK-Louisville or UK-Duke.

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:38 PM EDT up reply actions

Matty Mo...

does deserve the standing O. Guy gave it all he had for us for a lot of years, that's for sure

by philbobilbo on Sep 16, 2006 6:38 AM EDT reply actions

Watching Through Fingers...

As one of the long-standing big MM fans here, I've watched Matty's 1st year w/ the Giants, and it's seemed that the big inning (often the first) has undone him. He gets on great rolls for four or five innings, and then...poof. As it stands, only his June was consistently outstanding. He's shown flashes of that buldog toughness (the CG against the Reds last month), but otherwise, I'm sure he's been frustrated with the kind of year he's had.

Like LB, I cannot bear to root against him. I'll be out all day in Brooklyn, so...sometime tonight I'll check the scoreboard. Maybe he and Carp can go nine 0-0, and Albert can win it off some other guy in the 10th.

I'm sure the O when he comes out will be grand, tho'. That I'd like to see...

by glennrwordman on Sep 16, 2006 7:13 AM EDT reply actions

HR totals

Obviously the month of June was bad from a pitching standpoint. Offensively, the power was pretty anemic as well. We got a total of 4 hr's from the catcher position and middle infield(Molina, Bennett, Eck, Miles, Luna), El Hombre was limited to 1 HR in 39 ab's, and Scotty only had 4 for the month. Just think how bad June would look if Jimmy hadn't smacked 9 of them. We had 7 freakin HR's for the entire month outside of Jimmy. Did the pale sox have that many the series against us in June? That being said it was great to see Scotty and CD kill the ball last night. We're going to need some pop from them in October. The game I remember most from Matty Mo is Game 5(of a best of 5) of the 2001 NLDS. 8 innings of 1 run ball and we lost 2-1 in the ninth. JD Drew hit a solo HR and a 21 yr old Pujols was 0-4. Oh, how things change.
GO Cards!!!

by toris34 on Sep 16, 2006 8:55 AM EDT reply actions

Chris Duncan

At what point will we be willing to take what Chris Duncan has done at face value and say "Yup. He's the starting left fielder in '07"? Sample size, schmample size. He's done it for almost an entire season. It seems like a prudent risk to believe he can repeat himself. If not, then go in search. But don't pull the rug out from under him before then.

On another note, I miss Jimmy Ballgame. The diving catches, those shots over the left centerfield wall.

by Pokey Joe on Sep 16, 2006 10:20 AM EDT reply actions

Well we didn't take JRod last year

and I feel more confident with JRod than I do Dunc. Dunc's OPS against righthanders...a paltry .546

At best I think he's a platoon candidate.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Sep 16, 2006 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions

You mean against LHP

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions

vs. L/R

You mean lefthanders. It isn't unusual for lefthanded power hitters to struggle against lefthanded pitchers, especially LOOGYs.

Duncan's OPS agaist righties is over 1.000.

I don't see much point in complaining about Duncan's struggles against lefties while he is mashing righties. So, don't start him against lefties. No big deal. He'll still get 120 or so starts, and he's dirt cheap.

by Speedy G on Sep 16, 2006 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions

your both right

I obviously meant lefties...was up early w/ college stuff...that's what I get for trying to make intelligent conversation before noon.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Sep 16, 2006 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions

Not me...

I'll take Duncan...I'll tell you what he does that JRod doesn't...he is constantly getting better. He has really gotten better at the plate as far as recognizing the strike zone, and is working counts to get WALKS in front of Albert. As far as defense?...well he is improving in that dept. also, everytime he goes out there. I'd use JRod as the 2nd player in some deal that might bring us a arm....but for next year? I'll take Duncan.

by Timbo02 on Sep 16, 2006 10:39 AM EDT reply actions

Duncan's learning

I'm with you: Duncan's steady improvement in his approach at the plate is what has convinced me that he's the real deal. Maybe it shouldn't surprise me, since his dad is smart and analytical, but I have been pleasantly surprised by the way Chris seems, month by month, to work on his weaknesses. His batting eye has improved, his thinking at the plate appears to have improved, and even his defense seems to be a bit better.

I know he's still not hitting lefties, but I'd be all for letting him hit them as often as possible in the spring and see where he gets.

by levistahl on Sep 16, 2006 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions

yeah, i'm getting sick

of people not realizing that j-rod was a flash in the pan, definitely not a starter, but duncan seems to have potential to be a consistently good hitter. I say let him start every game and let him develop and get better.

by jojo5492 on Sep 16, 2006 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions

Why was J-Rod

a flash in the pan? His average is still at .299, with 16 RBI and 31 runs scored in only 167 Ab. Not bad, if you ask me. Not what C-Dunc has given us, but a heckuva lot more that Gooch has. Plus he has a decent OBP of .378.

I still think he deserved more playing time at the beginning of the year, rather than sticking with So for so long. Even if he never starts, I hope we keep him around, not a great glove, but a good stick
Just my opinion, though.

by fuegophil on Sep 16, 2006 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions

J-Rod

J-Rod's numbers this year are almost identical to last year.

2005 - .295/.382/.436
2006 - .299/.378/.437

He's a good hitter; takes good at bats, even against tough pitchers. He just doesn't have Duncan's power. Neither is a very good fielder, but J-Rod is probably a little better. J-Rod has had some trouble on the bases, though.

I agree that J-Rod should have gotten more playing time this season. I think part of the reason he hasn't is b/c he is basically Tony's designated late-inning pinch hitter.

by Speedy G on Sep 16, 2006 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions

Let's not forget

his numerous injuries.

by sdesserman on Sep 16, 2006 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions

Duncan

The thing I like best about Duncan is that he hits the ball hard to all fields. That makes him much more difficult to pitch to and bodes well for future success.

He has also been seeing a lot of pitches.

Cardinals leaders in pitches/PA:

Edmonds: 4.07
Duncan: 4.06
J-Rod: 4.04
Rolen: 3.93

Part of that, for all of the above, is the result of pretty high K rates, but it is also a result of good patience. That also bodes well for future success.

by Speedy G on Sep 16, 2006 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions

Not to get into a running argument

but I think Duncan's improvement from May to September indicates a greater upside than Rodriguez.

By the way, nicknames like ARod, JRod, etc. drive me nuts. Nicknames like El Hombre, Boomer, Rocket show a little more imagination. Completely off topic, I know. It's probably a personal thing anyway...

by Pokey Joe on Sep 16, 2006 10:41 AM EDT reply actions

C-Dunc?

Maybe that doesn't work too well. How about Chris Duncan the Wonderboy? Or Chris "Don't call me Dave" Duncan? Anyways I look at Chris as the Nunez of 06. He is capable of playing everyday and I think he should get his shot next year early to impress people. But he is playing a position he is not used to and can't hit lefties. Next year give him his shot, but I wouldn't be afraid to trade him either.

Be Selective

by OKCardsfan on Sep 16, 2006 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions

I call

I call Chris Duncan "The Chew" representing the massive amount of Chew he keeps in his jaw at all times.

I am waiting for him to make a belly dive in the outfield swallow his chew than start puking every where.

by DimitroffVodka on Sep 16, 2006 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions

wh not just

call him chewie? your on to something...he quit for a while and noticed hes bak to it though

by punchinjudy on Sep 16, 2006 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions

Should we call

his bat Han Solo? Maybe since he drives the ball so well we could call the bat the Millenium Falcon? Chewie with his trusty bat Solo? Interesting... we could have the outfeild of Chewie, Bobba Fett, and Skywalker. Okay I'm done..

Darth

Be Selective

by OKCardsfan on Sep 16, 2006 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions

PaDuncADunc

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions

Personally

I like his AAA nickname, Lurch.

Oh, the burden of stupid people.

by Solanus on Sep 16, 2006 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions

OKCardsfan

I think those are good points I see alot more in Dunc than I did in Jrod...If he starts to hit lefties look out. I think hes earned a platoon shot next yr at the very least.

Im not sure why people fall over J-rod stats can be decieving..look at Gary Matthews this year anyone in here want to give him the huge contract he's earned for next yr..not me...Jrod is a guy who bounced around that we got of the heap sorry but we did..when he was hitting what were all the people on ESPN and Fox saying? That he basically was doe in clevland then cards picked him up gave him a chance...He was a great one year deal adn an occasional ok pinch hitter but not an ever day guy...

Matthews may be an everyday guy but look at how much hes bounced around as well. He can field pretty good though.

by punchinjudy on Sep 16, 2006 12:20 PM EDT reply actions

J Rod

I personally like J Rod cause he seems to have good plate displine and takes the walk. Too bad he is not a Rightie than we could have a two headed demon of J-Rod/Dunc

by DimitroffVodka on Sep 16, 2006 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions

he does

have good late discipline but its a fall off when it comes to pop and D see the houtson game b4 the break..course DUnc has had some oh my's out there too

by punchinjudy on Sep 16, 2006 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Of course

J-Rod is like 4 for 5 against Lidge...nice to have when facing Houston.

by fuegophil on Sep 16, 2006 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions

the problem with saying the JRod doesn't have as

much power is that Duncan's power isn't really supported by any of his previous performances at lower levels. Maybe Dunc's progressing. Maybe he's altered his swing. He's never shown THIS kind of power before in this number of ABs.

Or maybe it's a fluke. What bothers me is that JRod had the same success last year w/ better plate discipline and he didn't get a look as a starter this year but rather had to share time in the OF w/ lesser players like Taguchi. This organization should have given him at least 100 ABs in LF or RF to see if they had an everyday player on their hands. Rodriguez has far more even spilts against LHP (although a very small sample size).

I hope the club gives Duncan 100ABs at the start of next year, day in day out no matter who is on the mound so that they see what they have. I want them to do this not because I think Duncan is an everyday player or because I think he's better than Rodriguez (I don't think he's either - imo he's a platoon half and Roriguez is an everday player) but because they need to start trying to fill some roster spots w/ cheap players.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Sep 16, 2006 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions

JRod

got a pretty good look last year, and then the league figured him out and his power was GONE. Duncan has adapted as the league has adapted to him - so far anyway. He's performed much better than J-Rod.

Don't get me wrong - I like JRod, and I even got my hopes up a little bit during his sudden arrival in the bigs, but he's not a power hitter. I'd say he's definitely a good hitter, but we need power with JEd out of the lineup.

Power is going to be a difficult thing to find in the coming years - without the 'roids, it's not as easy to find a 30-40 homer guy as it was in the 90's. I'd like to see if Duncan is capable of doing this for a whole season, and I'd like to see him get a chance to prove he can hit lefties. It'll take some time to adapt, but he should get a chance.

The Cardinal Curmudgeon

by lawman3842 on Sep 16, 2006 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Since you're not in the area

I was wondering if you watch the games or just follow on line? If you don't see every game, I can understand you're pessimism in Duncan's continuing progression. Watching him live though, it's seems pretty clear that he is making the adjustments to become a real MLB caliber hitter.

I hate to go all Joe Morgan anti-stats and projections, but Dunc's power is not a fluke by any means. That second HR last night was hit harder than any non-Pujols blast by a Card this year. He is ridiculously big, strong, and his batter's IQ has been doing nothing but going up as the season has gone on. I understand sitting him against tough lefties, but other than that, he should be in the starting lineup every day until he proves otherwise. Sometimes things don't start clicking until a player is 25 (Edmonds, Howard, a million other examples) and when you prove that you can do it on the MLB level instead of AA it's time to give him a full shot.

And not to discredit J-Rod, but he doesn't exactly have the pop one would want out of a starting OFer. He's a great batter to have of the bench, but I just can't imagine him being a starter anywhere. That being said, I hope he's on the playoff roster this year and with the club again next year.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions

ummm I live 25 minutes away from STL

and catch almost every game on TV as well as attending about a dozen+ games a year.

Look don't get me wrong. Duncan is an exciting player and I think that he is progressing but I don't find what he is doing remarkably different from JRod. Last year my roommates and I would sit around and laugh as they fooled JRod on crappy breaking pitches. He'd swing everytime.

Then he started taking those pitches for balls and drawing walks. Duncan (before yesterday) was in a 6-38 slump so I wouldn't say that pitchers aren't figuring him out. If he can hit with a +800 OPS I'd be thrilled to have that from a league minimum corner OF. I just don't get why everyone thinks Duncan is the next coming of Dunn while JRod is Eckstein's little brother.

Duncan's numbers have been on a steady decline but are still otherworldly. He's playing beyond what any scout or projection system ever thought he would do. I get that he hits some absolute bombs. The kids a beast. But these HRs and SLG are completely off the charts. If he recedes at all vs. RHP you have to wonder how long he retains his value since he can't hit LHP for shit it seems.

Rodriguez may not have displayed a ton of power in STL but he hit 17 homers for Memphis and 27 total between AAA and the MLB in 2005.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Sep 16, 2006 6:45 PM EDT up reply actions

Sorry

I thought I remember you saying you lived out west

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 17, 2006 12:38 AM EDT up reply actions

Matty Mo

absolutely hit it on the head w/ Morris. He was a great Cardinal and deserves the standing O. Wouldn't have been a good signing, though I'd certainly feel better w/ him in the rotation this postseason than Marquis or Weaver. But he was tough and first-class for us for many years. I hope the fans treat him right today. Wish I could be there for it.

As for the homers, it helps having fewer starts from Mulder in the last 3 months. Plus, those 1 inning starts from Marquis hold down the homer damage as well.

Let's get a win today and I hope I can hear the applause for Matty Mo down here in Houston.

by chuckb on Sep 16, 2006 12:24 PM EDT reply actions

he should not be booed

but I would give him a run in the first...we all know how he does with a lead...ok watch him be the morris of young today...and not the morris of the last 2-3yrs..it was a good no sign i couldnt imagine him and marquis back to back this yr..

by punchinjudy on Sep 16, 2006 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions

Anyone know if the Cards are wearing the

powder blues on Sunday for the Sutter thing?

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 12:25 PM EDT reply actions

The running argument...

Sorry, but I'm haunted by a ghost from 20 years ago. The Cardinals would never let Van Slyke prove that he couldn't hit lefthanders (remember Tito VanLanslum?). Once he was traded he turned out to be a perennial all star. I'm not saying Duncan is in his class but the truth is we don't know. Let the kid play every day and see what he can do. The more lefthanders he faces the more comfortable he should become against them.

He'll never be the second coming of Van Slyke in the field but it looks like he'll hit for more power and perhaps post better OPS numbers. He's cheap, he's improving and at this point the Cardinals don't know what they have. And that's the point.

by Pokey Joe on Sep 16, 2006 12:53 PM EDT reply actions

To a degree

I'm saying give the kid his shot. However, if this is a fluke, we must capitalize on it. He never put up these numbers in AAA. His trade value right now is high. I don't want to trade him, but if he could bring in a strong SP. See Ya.

Be Selective

by OKCardsfan on Sep 16, 2006 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Keyword being

cheap. Music to DeWitt and company's ears.

by cardsrul on Sep 16, 2006 1:59 PM EDT reply actions

Lineup

Aaron Miles SS
Chris Duncan RF
Albert Pujols 1B
Scott Spiezio LF
Scott Rolen 3B
Juan Encarnacion CF
Ronnie Belliard 2B
Yadier Molina C
Chris Carpenter P

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 3:28 PM EDT reply actions

Lineups

Giants
CF Finley
SS Vizquel
1B Hillenbrand
LF Bonds
2B Durham
RF Alou
3B Feliz
C Alfonzo
P Moris

Cardinals
2B Miles
RF Duncan
1B Pujols
LF Speizo
3B Rolen
CF Encarnacion
2B Belliard
C Molina
P Carpenter

Is that stability in the lineup I see?

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 3:28 PM EDT reply actions

MORRIS

no offense

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions

Heads up

Hamels has a no-hitter against the 'Stros through 6. Phils finally scored in the top of the 7th

The cat is fine, thank you.

by Intheway on Sep 16, 2006 3:37 PM EDT reply actions

4-0 now

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

gone now

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions

Carp's scuffling a bit...

...kinda reminds me of the Nats game.

Hopefully it trends differently.

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:14 PM EDT reply actions

Did Morris get an O when his name was announced?

Just wondering, since the game is blacked out on MLB TV

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:17 PM EDT reply actions

yes sir

Tipped his helmet in acknowledgement and stepped out for a moment as well.

by Elle on Sep 16, 2006 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions

Atta boy

Miles

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:19 PM EDT reply actions

Who has taken over Miles' body

since Eck's been hurt? A triple? Wow, bravo to the mighty mite!

by fuegophil on Sep 16, 2006 4:20 PM EDT reply actions

Is Mike Shannon dying?`

It's painful to listen to him talking today.

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:20 PM EDT reply actions

I put new speakers on my computer

today, and I was going to blame them.

The cat is fine, thank you.

by Intheway on Sep 16, 2006 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions

His wife has cancer

That's all I know.

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions

Sounds

like he had a long night out w/ Spaghetti Raghetti last night.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions

Yeah, it's really rough....

...I know he wouldn't miss Carp/Morris, but he should have taken the day off.

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

Any update..

to the Morris reception?

by saladdin69 on Sep 16, 2006 4:21 PM EDT reply actions

Its hard

to give a SP a reception on his way to the mound.

He'll probably get a good one when he bats.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions

You realize how little of

today's lineup actually played with Morris as a Card?

Not Miles, Speizio, Enc or Belliard, and just a little for Duncan

The cat is fine, thank you.

by Intheway on Sep 16, 2006 4:22 PM EDT reply actions

I just looked at that

and was counting which ones played with him

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions

1-0 Cards

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:23 PM EDT reply actions

Someone...

...what kind of reception did Matty get?

by glennrwordman on Sep 16, 2006 4:23 PM EDT reply actions

Again

Its hard to give a SP a reception when he's on his way to the mound.

He'll get a good one when he bats.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions

If he...

...doesn't get some outs, he might get one on the way back to the dugout!

I mentioned big innings earlier. This seems to have become Matty Mo's MO. We'll see...

by glennrwordman on Sep 16, 2006 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions

Lidgebreaker

That Lidge gave up 3 runs today without getting an out?

I think he still has Post-Albert Stress Disorder.

by tdawg on Sep 16, 2006 4:28 PM EDT reply actions

Where's that Matt Morris curveball turned Souvenir

at when we need it?

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:29 PM EDT reply actions

I think that might have been it.

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions

there you go

by tdawg on Sep 16, 2006 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

There?

Not watching, so I can't see what pitch it was.

Big inning. Poor Matty, good for the Birds...

by glennrwordman on Sep 16, 2006 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions

Juan!

HR! #19!

Cards lead 4-0

Matty Mo is at 35 pitches befor Belliard bats

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:32 PM EDT reply actions

Instant breakfast turns...

... into instant shower!

GO CARDS!!!

by SuperSeve on Sep 16, 2006 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions

I'd feel bad for him...

But I don't.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:32 PM EDT reply actions

Ya

got no heart, Alx, no haaaart, I tells ya'!

by glennrwordman on Sep 16, 2006 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions

Good and sad news

What an arm Morris had. Nasty nasty curve once.

by saladdin69 on Sep 16, 2006 4:33 PM EDT reply actions

Carp doesn't seem too sharp

hope his arm isn't tired from all those pitches last game

by jojo5492 on Sep 16, 2006 4:37 PM EDT reply actions

Nice ovation for Matty

w/ a classy tip o' the cap.

Cheers

by Alxfritz on Sep 16, 2006 4:38 PM EDT reply actions

nice to hear

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions

Good inning, Chris

Much more Carp-ish.

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 4:52 PM EDT reply actions

Belliard

defense good. offense, not so much

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:02 PM EDT reply actions

yeah

not good when they walk the bases loaded to get to you

by jojo5492 on Sep 16, 2006 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions

Matty Mo

Already at 71 pitches

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:05 PM EDT reply actions

86 pitches

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:16 PM EDT up reply actions

102

I'm guessing he's done for the day

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions

Carp

appears to be hitting his stride. While I feel bad that the 4-0 lead had to come at the expense of MattyMo, I don't feel so bad that it's stopping me from enjoying it thoroughly. ;)

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 5:09 PM EDT reply actions

God love ya, Matty Mo

but I hope you have to buy Carp's dinner tonight.

by Elle on Sep 16, 2006 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions

another triple?!

Someone's fighting for that shortstop job...

by Elle on Sep 16, 2006 5:13 PM EDT reply actions

wow

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions

C'mon Baby Dunc!

More runs never go amiss!

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 5:14 PM EDT reply actions

Okay, Carp

Tell us: did you do that on purpose to make your buddy feel better? ;)

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 5:21 PM EDT reply actions

Belliard

can someone remind me why he's a better option than luna again?

by jojo5492 on Sep 16, 2006 5:35 PM EDT reply actions

Ya know...

Once Eckstein is playing every day, Belliard will be on the bench again

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions

man, Carpenter

sure is missing a lot of bats today. This dude is on his game!

The Cardinal Curmudgeon

by lawman3842 on Sep 16, 2006 5:37 PM EDT reply actions

you know

As much as I dislike Juan in right, I actually like him in center. He's been doing well there.

by Elle on Sep 16, 2006 5:40 PM EDT reply actions

Agreed

And I'd guess that his offense is probably league average in right, but top 5 in center.

by SirVLCIV on Sep 16, 2006 6:12 PM EDT up reply actions

Pitch counts

At the end of 6 IP for each
Morris 102
Carp 89

go Cards!

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:41 PM EDT reply actions

oops

I lost count of innings. Morris is for 5 IP, Carp 6 IP

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 5:44 PM EDT up reply actions

Say what you want...

about this year's Cy, but Carp is keeping up with Webb in pacing the ERA, CG, and SHO categories. If he can win-out, he might take Wins as well.

by Big Rev on Sep 16, 2006 5:48 PM EDT reply actions

so much for getting a CG or SHO

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:13 PM EDT up reply actions

CARPENTER!!!!

Honestly, I'm as biased as heck, but I honestly don't see how you can give the Cy to anyone else. He turns in outstanding performance... after outstanding performance... after outstanding performance...

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 5:54 PM EDT reply actions

agreed...

but so does Webb

by Big Rev on Sep 16, 2006 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions

Gameday says Albert was out??

It happened on a Sunday afternoon, August 22, 1982.

by Glenn Brummer stole home on Sep 16, 2006 6:01 PM EDT reply actions

Um.... Tony?

Not sure I agree with running Carp out there again. Game's well in hand, he's already gone 7 scoreless, and he's over 100 pitches.

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:06 PM EDT reply actions

Um, yeah.

Where's Adam? Did he die? Haven't seen him recently.

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:08 PM EDT reply actions

Never mind

There he is. :)

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:12 PM EDT up reply actions

Carp

Great outing against the former teammate

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:15 PM EDT reply actions

Adam's command looking a little sketchy

C'mon!

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:16 PM EDT reply actions

Course, as I type that, he gets a DP.

Way to go Adam! Now let's get Barroids out and have this over with.

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions

Er... TJ vs. Barroids?

Not so sure I like this matchup...

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions

lefty vs. lefty

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:28 PM EDT up reply actions

I know that TJ's a LOOGY

which was why he was in there. But he got Bonds out, so it's all good.

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:30 PM EDT up reply actions

How close was Pujols 7th inning double

to going out? I mean, did it have a legit shot of a HR or was it a double all the way?

by Hardcore Legend on Sep 16, 2006 6:21 PM EDT reply actions

Double all the way

Landed on the warning track. He hit it hard enough, but not enough trajectory.

by kemime on Sep 16, 2006 6:57 PM EDT up reply actions

Look....

They FINALLY got Preston Wilson in a Cards hat on Gameday. Took them what, a month?

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:28 PM EDT reply actions

This just in

CHC 4, CIN 0

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:29 PM EDT reply actions

Rich Hill had 10 Ks

in a CG SHO

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions

he's been scary good lately

hopefully Dusty has him throw 200 pitches in a game and breaks him before the season is done.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Sep 16, 2006 6:48 PM EDT up reply actions

Looper

Let's win this thing!

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:32 PM EDT reply actions

THAT'S A WINNER!

The Cardinals win! The Cardinals win!

Redbirds Fun
The Kentucky Democrat

by cardsfan84 on Sep 16, 2006 6:34 PM EDT reply actions

another milestone too

Carp's 100th win

by Elle on Sep 16, 2006 6:37 PM EDT up reply actions

has anyone

noticed that 1/3 of our lineup now consists of guys who are only around bc of the defense? pitcher spot is expected, but i'm kinda worried about having 2 more guys (molina, belliard) that look like they're in a coma when hitting

by MarcGldstn on Sep 16, 2006 6:34 PM EDT reply actions

having carp

throw 114 is just stupid. I know he hasn't been overly taxed this year, but there's no reason to have him go over 100 in a game like that.

by PGeorge @ Viva El Birdos on Sep 16, 2006 6:35 PM EDT reply actions

I know...

I was peeved that he started the eighth at all, and we really don't need to be burning out that priceless right arm of his.

That said... kudos to Carp for yet another beautifully pitched game, which we can pretty much count on whenever he takes the mound. Oh yes, and Matty takes Chris out to dinner tonight. Chris chooses the restaurant, Matty pays.

"Of all the things I've lost, I miss my mind the most." -- Ozzy Osbourne

by Scarlet the Cardinal on Sep 16, 2006 6:36 PM EDT up reply actions

we count on Carp so much

that if we didn't have Albert, I'd think about Carp as an MVP candidate. Each and every game, you can count on him to keep you in the game if not pretty much win the game by himself.

Don't wear out that arm!

by Elle on Sep 16, 2006 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions

I was browsing through BP

one of my favorite sites and was looking at Carpenter's most comparable pitchers...noone who really jumped out at me besides Mussina and Lieber.

I also noticed that Carpenter is destroying his PECOTA projection - heh...he's in the 80-90 percentile. 8-something WARP...this guy is sick. I wonder if his projection is still brought down by his injury and/or mediocre years in Toronto...

anyway Carpeter rocks.

Acquire Jason Schmidt!

by azruavatar on Sep 16, 2006 7:31 PM EDT reply actions