Brain Dump

by azruavatar on Mar 7, 2008 8:59 AM EST in St. Louis Cardinals News

Let's do a community projection this week. In the comments, list the number of wins you expect the NL Central teams to win. Comma delimit the response and make sure your wins are in the following order:

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

All I need is the 6 win totals separated by commas. That's it; from that I'll tabulate the results of how VEB expects the division to play out.

While you've got your crystal ball handy, you can jump over to Future Redbirds where there are projection threads for Jarrett Hoffpauir and Jaime Garcia.

- - - - - - - - - -

With the release of Scott Spiezio there was immediate speculation about who might lay claim to that precious roster spot that Spiezio was believed to be all but certain to get. It's a forgone conclusion that Pujols and Glaus will be on the 25-man. Kennedy, Izturis and (unfortunately) Miles also seem safe bets. The Cardinals certainly have internal options in Brendan Ryan and Joe Mather that could seize the opportunity to make the team and I wouldn't be opposed to either of them. I'm nothing if not stubborn, however, so let me revive a name that I remain convinced has at least as much upside as our internal options.

I've written about Ben Zobrist before and now I see he's 6-for-14 with 3BBs against 4Ks. That's a batting line of .429/.529/.643. It should go without saying that I don't base my assessment of Zobrist solely on those 14 at-bats but they are, potentially, a good sign. With the acquisition of Jason Bartlett and Willy Aybar, Zobrist could be an expendable part for the Rays. Wild speculation brings to mind Bryan Anderson or Mark Hamilton as players that the Rays might be interested in.

- - - - - - - - - -

With Tyler Johnson headed to the DL, Ron Villone is the most likely choice to take his place. Here's a few projections for him.

	Innings	ERA
PECOTA	38	4.35
ZIPS	67	4.43
CHONE	64	4.64
MARCEL	54	4.67

I'll be surprised if he gets 50 innings but an ERA in the mid-4s seems reasonable. When Tyler Johnson comes back the Cardinals may have to decide who to keep between Villone and Flores. I don't expect Flores to be any more effective against left-handers this year as he seems to be headed out of baseball at this point. The Cardinals farm system remains bereft of LH relievers (unless you count Jaime Garcia) so they will probably continue to dip into the free agent pool for retreads and stop-gaps. Alternately, they could follow the Padres lead and simply not carry left handed relievers if they aren't one of their 12 best options. Scratch that thought. TLR is still the manager after all.

- - - - - - - - - -

The talk of Brian Barton's arm, or lack thereof, seems overblown to me. Setting aside the importance of throwing versus general outfield range, the cynical side of me feels like I'm being prepped for a messy breakup. We've seen players like Juan Pierre and Johnny Damon succeed despite terrible arms; is Barton really that bad? The Cardinals were looking for a RH outfield bat and they released So Taguchi as a precursor to Barton's acquisition. One would assume that Barton would win a tie with a player like Rasmus who still has options but a tie with Juan Gonzalez or Skip Schumaker? That's a different beast all together.

One option to keep in mind is that the Cardinals and Indians could agree on a player to be sent from the Cardinals to the Indians and essentially complete a delayed trade for Barton. That would free the Cardinals to move him into the minors if they don't feel he's quite ready to play yet. It's an idea worth pursuing as Barton is a gifted athlete nearly ready for the majors. He's be a nice addition to the farm and probably has as high a ceiling as any other outfielder short of Rasmus.

- - - - - - - - - -

Gameday link via Liam: St. Louis at LA Dodgers

Enjoy your Friday!

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Comments

Picking a surprise winner

This is probably statistically impossible, but here it goes.

81,85,78,88,67,90

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 9:00 AM EST reply actions

Not really a surprise

Not really a surprise winner but certainly a surprise that the Stros will out win the Cards, I just don't see that happening.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 9:04 AM EST up reply actions

I guess that is true

I am anticipating the Central really chewing each other up. And I think the Astros will have significant problems in their rotation that will be their undoing...plus Oswalt will slowly continue to decline.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 9:13 AM EST up reply actions

Yeah, I'm an idiot

I think I argued against myself there. And if this post doesn't make sense, just excuse all of the above.

Let's try that again..I think the Astros manage to win more games than the Cards this year because I think they improved more than we did in the offseason for this year, but their rotation will keep them from winning the division despite a pretty good offense.

Wow, no more posts before 10 am, just not good.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 9:18 AM EST up reply actions

I disagree

I don't think the Stros improved at all this offseason. I think they got worse, unless their young guys make a big impact I just don't see it. Maybe I am forgetting about some of their acquisitions though. I do think the Cards got better overall, upgraded the rotation, 3B, CF, and hopefully 2B can't get any worse while only truely downgrading at SS.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 9:42 AM EST up reply actions

Well

They did acquire Miguel Tejada, Bourn, and Kaz Matsui for their lineup, so they upgraded at SS for sure and probably even at second. Matsui isn't going to set the world on fire but he can probably put up a higher OBP than Biggio did last year. Also, they have a new catcher, Towles or something, and I have heard he is a decent hitter, almost certainly better than Ausmus was at the dish. Maybe someone else can speak to that.

They will probably go Bourn, Matsui, Lee, Berkman, Tejada, Pence almost every night. That is a pretty decent 1-6, better than ours. Oswalt is still better than Wainwright and while Houston has a lot of issues in their rotation, its not like our starting staff is going to be the strength of the team.

And that isn't even assuming an injury to Pujols, which would certainly put us down in the standings. Hell, if that happens early enough, we could challenge the Bucs for worst record in the Central.

It will come down to health, but right now, I would give the Astros a slight edge over us in the standings. It is def. not a lock that we finish ahead of them in the standings this year.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 10:02 AM EST up reply actions

PECOTA

Well PECOTA agrees with you so maybe I am wearing my red glasses too much.

Bourn, Matsui, Lee, Berkman, Tejada, Pence
vs
Schumaker, Rasmus, Pujols, Ankiel, Glaus, Kennedy/Molina

I think in the end it is a fairly hard comparision because we don't know what we are going to get from 3 of the guys listed there. That is basically today's spring training lineup (Glaus traded for Juan since we don't get a DH in the season). Swap Rasmus to 1st and Duncan in 2nd for Schumaker and you have a similar lineup. Also do you consider our 1-6 or our 9-5?

But again I think I am being a bit of a Homer, but I just don't see us being second to last in the division.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 10:16 AM EST up reply actions

Towles

could end up being a monster also.

The Astros were not much offensively the last few years...

but, getting rid of Ausmus and Biggio is addition by subtraction.

And, a full year of Pence and Towles could be a big deal.

Thier rotation sucks worse than ours.

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 10:22 AM EST up reply actions

terrible defense, too

a large chunk of the runs they gain from tejada at shortstop will be offset by the runs they lose via his glove.

they'll score some runs, but i can't see them finishing much above .500 w/ that staff and that defense.

by lboros on Mar 7, 2008 11:34 AM EST up reply actions

For sure

I don't think they will be good. I just think they will finish ahead of us.

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 11:37 AM EST up reply actions

Ausmus vs LaRue

I may be the only one -- and, ironically I am also more positive about Jason LaRue than most seem to be -- but I would rather have Brad Ausmus as our back-up catcher. (Because I am old school and I value defense -handling pitchers- above offense behind the plate.)
This assumes, of course, that Yadi stays healthy and is a 135-145 game starter.

Q - has Ausmus landed anywhere? His player profile on MLB still shows him with "Hou" -- do the Astros intend to keep him as a back-up?

Added fillip: LaRue is a Houston native and has always wanted to be an Astro. Would anybody else trade those two straight up, or just me?

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 1:21 PM EST up reply actions

Tewk, I'll say

I would. I too have always liked Ausums as a catcher and I guess I'm old school also. By the way, baring injuries to Ankiel, Pujols or Glaus I think that the Cards have more potential power than any other team in NL Central and could lead in HR's. I do not know how far that will take them though with questionable defense and pitching.

Maybe a trade down the line or some maturing by a few prospects by way of Memphis and the Cards can move into contention after all star break. That's my hopes anyway.

by ridgesee on Mar 7, 2008 8:26 PM EST up reply actions

Whoa

More potential power than the Brewers? (Fielder, Braun, Hardy, Hart, Weeks) or the Reds? (Griffey, Dunn, Phillips, Freel) or the Cubs? (Lee, Ramirez, Soriano, Fukudome) I don't think what you are saying is impossible, but just very improbable.

I think there is more power in the NL Central than you think. In fact, last year the HR totals for these teams were: Reds 204, Brewers 231, Cubs 151, Cards 141. Do you really think the Cards have the potential to put up 90 more HRs? I think the Cards will be better, but not that much better.

by Ray Lankford on Mar 7, 2008 10:59 PM EST up reply actions

LaRue has looked awesome this week

He gunned out three runners in one game, including hanley ramirez, and has a great rapport with the pitchers from what I've seen. He's also (surprisingly) a good infielder, and was taking ground balls at both 2B and SS yesterday and today.

I can't imagine Bennett/Spinnett doing any of that...

Ausmus is better, I'm sure, but if LaRue can have any kind of return to his past levels of offense, he could be a real difference maker.

by SleepyCA on Mar 7, 2008 10:35 PM EST up reply actions

And Towles

should be pretty good offensively but a monster? No way. I don't know of one website/scouting organization that has him rated above Bryan Anderson, for example and while most expect Anderson to be a fine offensive player, none believe him to be a monster.

by chuckb on Mar 7, 2008 3:02 PM EST up reply actions

I think

you will see a lot of teams bunched up around .500 by the end of the year. I just happen to think the Astros are a tad better.

Rasmus being successful, Pujols playing a whole season, one young pitcher emerging for either squad, injuries...all of these things could give a definitive advantage to one squad or another. I just don't think our team, as currently constructed, is very good. I would LOVE to be wrong, and I hope I am.

But hey, we will blow the Pirates out of the water, so we've got that going for us.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 10:25 AM EST up reply actions

Stro's need help....

I love it when youre wrong too ;). Nice shuffling up there tho!

Id have to say the pitching and defense puts them a little more than a tad behind us both in the W/L column and in off season improvement.

If we can't be good, can we at least be lucky?

by cardschinmusic on Mar 8, 2008 4:30 AM EST up reply actions

We need help

Our rotation could easily be worse than the Astros, and their offense is better.

I don't know why it is hard to believe that a fourth place finish this year is a distinct possiblity. It is almost a certainty if Albert misses 2+ months.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 8, 2008 2:46 PM EST up reply actions

Projection

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds
70,88,85,90,65,85

That may be too rosy considering their wins last season were:
73,83,78,85,68,72

For this to happen the NLC has to have a much better season out of division then they did last year but I think overall the teams improved except Hou and maybe Pitt.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 9:03 AM EST reply actions

Two things:

First, I would be really disappointed if the Cards are unable to find a way to hold on to Barton. I think a speedy outfielder with good OBP skills would be a fine addition to the roster, and I think he'd be more useful overall than Skippy.

Second, projections: Stros, Crew, BOB, Flubs, Buccos, Redlegs

76,89,80,92,69,83

I'm predicting a stronger season for the NL Central than last year...Not that that means much, but still.

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 9:18 AM EST reply actions

Addendum on Barton

I think that the concerns with Barton's arm are valid. The CF does have to make some long, accurate throws from deep in the park, which is probably a more important throw than anything to cut down a runner. Still, if the guy can go get it, and if he can hit well enough, that isn't enough to cut him in my mind.

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 9:21 AM EST up reply actions

the arm

the arm doesnt concern me too much when you take into account his projected role. he is likely just a 4th outfielder that will spend time at all of the spots. he doesnt need to be exceptional at CF, he just needs to be decent.

by dmb60614 on Mar 7, 2008 10:03 AM EST up reply actions

Taguchi's arm

was pretty shit last year, if I recall. I remember several times him bouncing a ball into the infield or missing a cutoff man. If Barton takes Taguchi's role, then I'm with you -- the arm issues don't matter all that much.

by Ray Lankford on Mar 7, 2008 10:07 AM EST up reply actions

So

I think So had respectable arm strength, but he was also pretty concerned about just getting the ball in as fast as he could. So So (I'm going to miss saying things like that!) would just pick the ball up, turn around, and heave the damn thing. Not exactly the way to go. I wouldn't advocate Barton start doing that either!

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 10:24 AM EST up reply actions

I think you are right

I remember So wheeling on his back leg and throwing rainbows into the infield (rainbows which would either bounce into the infield or miss the cutoff man or both).

by Ray Lankford on Mar 7, 2008 10:32 AM EST up reply actions

Yeah

If I were playing for an opponent of the Cards and I saw Taguchi chasing down a ball in the gap, I'd probably just keep running until I ran out of bases. So reminded me of a 7 year old who doesn't really understand what he's supposed to do so he just heaves the thing in. I usually laughed, but only b/c that kept me from crying.

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 10:49 AM EST up reply actions

odd, too

since Japanese players are reputed to be so well schooled in fundamentals.
His defense did regress, but I always liked him.

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 1:34 PM EST up reply actions

Taguchi

I too, witnessed myriad throws that bounced at least 3 times before making it to second. His defense went from decent to terrible as the years went on.

by The Butcher on Mar 7, 2008 3:56 PM EST up reply actions

Betting on the injuries

76,93,68,91,70,88

The Cardinals without Pujols/Carpenter and TLR playing Miles/Iz2 are horrid.

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 9:21 AM EST reply actions

Oh, let's taint the numbers

Not like I know anything, but...

69,85,81,88,70,85

and for good measure, the Cubbies get goated in 5 in the NLDS.

"Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals." --Churchill

by lordsummer on Mar 7, 2008 9:21 AM EST reply actions

NL Central

74,87,76,88,69,83

by bertold213 on Mar 7, 2008 9:46 AM EST reply actions

Here goes nothing

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

71,83,85,88,76,69

I really don't understand all the love for Cincy this year. They have no pitching at all besides their stud. I see them currently as a last place team.

by stl3bagger on Mar 7, 2008 10:03 AM EST reply actions

They have Harang and Arroyo

which is more than what we have.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 10:28 AM EST up reply actions

A few things:

I actually like Cinci's club, and here's why:

Harang is one of the top arms in the NL, and Arroyo and Fogg are respectable as mid-rotation arms. Homer Bailey is a legit arm, and if they get anything from him then they'll have 4 "give you a chance to win" type starters, w/ two potentially dominant ones.
With Griffey and Dunn they have a couple of guys who can swing it pretty good. Encarnacion and Phillips are good bets to put up solid numbers as well. Then, you figure in the offensive upgrade that Votto and Bruce should give them (assuming they reach the big club at some point) and they potentially have one of the better offenses in the NL.

I can see the Reds going either way. They could be a pretty good bunch, or a pretty bad one. I'm leaning towards the first right now, but I'm definitely preparing to eat crow!

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 10:34 AM EST up reply actions

They have more pitching than we do

Harrang, Arroyo and could be otherworldly Homer Bush. They've also got a decent #5 starter in Josh Fogg.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:34 AM EST up reply actions

You mean Bailey?

I assume you mean Homer BAILEY, not Homer BUSH. I love Bailey's arm, if nothing else the dude is going to be a lights out 7th/8th inning guy, a la a healthy Zumaya.

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 10:51 AM EST up reply actions

I saw Homer

yes, Bailey, twice last year in Louisville, where he was comfortable and in a groove (and a solid fan favorite). In the bigs (twice TV, for me) he looked like he was pressing.
If he can settle in, he will be quite good, possibly better than Arroyo -- who, by the way, had an inconsistent year. If I was a Reds' fan, he would worry me. Harang, on the other hand, is a moose (ie, very solid); to me he is the Tim Duncan (NBA) of the league... in that it might not be knock your socks off obvious, but he just might be the best starter in the NL.

The Reds play in a band box, and this elevates the value of the aging Griffey and the whiff too often Dunn. Votto has good plate presence, good pop, and is a more than competent defender at 1B, if they will just give him the job and switch off the gritty Hatteberg somewhere else.
And their Mr Everything, Ryan Freel, was crazy but healthy in '06, but last year was just crazy.

Many positives, but the two big drawbacks are a still specious bullpen, overall, and... ta-da... they has Dust-bag as their manager

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 2:05 PM EST up reply actions

The ARM

Why would we even consider Juan or Skip over Barton? Is this the stoooooopidest thing anyone has ever seen?!!!

My two cents - Trade Ludwick to the Mets for one of ther 17 year old Latin American prospects (any of three to four in their top 30 prospects) - if Skip and Juan force our hand by having great springs....

This is a serious test for Mo. The team knows that Barton is a key player (4th overall prospect per BA). BA has him in the 100-110 range in all prospects in baseball. We NEED TO KEEP HIM. Especially if the trade off is Juan freaking Gonzalez. Tony might say - arm needs work, routes need work, raw, but the fact of the matter is we need to be building - Juan is not going to be the difference in us winning now! Stand up MO!!!

By the way - the "reported" fact that Barton's arm is below average is in direct opposition to all of Barton's scouting reports (BA, McKamey, Sickels, etc etc) - so pardon me if i ain't buyin!

Sorry for the long rant - discussion of the possibility of giving Barton back for $25 grand gets me in a tizzy...

by Lawless on Mar 7, 2008 10:12 AM EST reply actions

I, too, agree that the arm thing is being overblow

firstly, look at who he is replacing in CF. Edmonds arm had become a liability the last 3 seasons and Taguchi didn't exactly have a cannon strapped to his shoulder.

We also have to look at which knee was injured in relation to his throwing arm. For an OF, alot of the power in their throw (unless they are a former pitcher turned OF) comes from their legs. In high school, I played 3B and had very little trouble making throws from even my backside to 1B, but when part-timing in the OF, it took a few weeks of skyballs to figure out how to properly place my weight for the long throw.

That said, Barton has everything going against him with LaRussa. He isn't a LaRussa 'pet' (someone who followed Tony's rules for years and 'earned' his spot on a Major League Franchise) like Skippy, he isn't a once-great former MVP slugger like Juan Gone and, well...he probably doesn't deserve to make the team over Ludwick anyways.

The easiest way to solve this is to find a trading partner for Skippy but I think you can see by these news stories or blog posts that we are already being prepared for Barton to be demoted or shipped out.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:20 AM EST up reply actions

As for Skip

As long as Skip is allowed to play for a ML team I don't have anything against trading him but I really think he deserves the chance to play an entire season above AAA. While I agree that the arm may be overblown I want more information about how weak it is, is his arm decent or is he Eckstein in the OF? If he even has Taguchi's arm then good, he has the range and the offense to make it. Barton is one guy I think needs to be a lock in the OF this year.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 10:23 AM EST up reply actions

Skippy

I agree Skip has earned a spot - no denying that. To me it is a ceiling question. My assessment of Skip's ceiling (for all that's worth!) is #4/5 outfielder on a contending club. Barton's ceiling is certainly more than that.

To pile on a bit, the Mets are desparately looking for a 1B/OF type. Why not see what they are willing to give us for C. Dunc. I would love to see Dunc succeed but if the Mets were willing to give up say - Pelfrey and a few young Latin American prospects - I would be all over that. I might even try to expand the trade to include a few relievers of the Mets choosing....

by Lawless on Mar 7, 2008 10:36 AM EST up reply actions

They wouldn't give up their #5 starter

for a corner OF/1B combo player.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:37 AM EST up reply actions

here's to rebuilding...

71,85,76,86,68,80

ed wade has ruined the 'stros chances for at least 6 years.

the cards need to shut down pujols, get him healthy for a resurgence in '09 alongside a solid young nucleus. don't patch him up and throw him out there to hold together a below-average team in a rebuilding year.

the reds chances will be derailed in a late-season slide caused by dusty baker. he's better at managing than he was at his espn post, but he'll have an otherwise solid rotation broke down by mid august.

the cubs are good, there's just no way around it. crap.

larussa for mayor, pujols for president...

by redbirds6 on Mar 7, 2008 10:13 AM EST reply actions

I've loved the idea of Zobrist for some time

The Cards desperately need a good, young SS. I have no idea whether he'll become the player the Cards need, but the other option appears to be Brendan Ryan. Izturis is a stopgap, at best. Martinez is probably not a big-league starting SS. Kozma is, at best, 3 years away and probably further.

As for Villone, it was an addition largely ignored around here but I said at the time that he was better than either of the Floreses and, considering Tony's requirement that we have at least 2 lefties in the pen, I believed then that he would make the team. I'd be stunned if it didn't happen now.

As for the division:

75,87,78,90,74,84

by chuckb on Mar 7, 2008 10:13 AM EST reply actions

I'm in - but...

There was an article on Buster's blog just yesterday about how Madden was in love with "Zo". Apparently Zo is willing to play every position but catcher to garner a spot this spring.

He is ideal for the SS spot and/or super utility guy but unfortunately I just don't see it happening. I would have to get more than Zo for Bryan Anderson as well...

by Lawless on Mar 7, 2008 10:40 AM EST up reply actions

Then it's official

we'll trade for Zobrist to play SS and sign Orlando Hudson in the off-season to play 2B.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:45 AM EST up reply actions

I dream of a trade

of Kennedy and Izturis and X (maybe Skip) for O. Hudson.
I'd be delirious.

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 2:31 PM EST up reply actions

74,84,75,86,72,74

tightly bunched with the cubs winning

by Ignatius J Reilly on Mar 7, 2008 10:16 AM EST reply actions

terrific nick

you have IJR... I wonder how many people get it?
If i was compiling a list of 'must-read' books, CoD would definitely be on it.

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 2:39 PM EST up reply actions

You are the first one, congrats.....

...obviously I agree with the "must read" comment!

by Ignatius J Reilly on Mar 14, 2008 11:30 PM EDT up reply actions

NL Central

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

69,94,80,89,73,85

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Mar 7, 2008 10:18 AM EST reply actions

NL Central

88,90,83,86,73,83

Don't sleep on the Astros. As a team built for 1-year, their offense is pretty damn good and if they can get ANYTHING out of starters 2-5, they should be alright.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:22 AM EST reply actions

Interesting

They may be sleepers but 2nd place? That just seems a bit unrealistic
Brewers
Astros
Cubs
Reds/Cards
Pirates

Those standings I just don't see happening, but who knows.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 10:25 AM EST up reply actions

What I think will happen to the Cubs this year

Lilly reverts to the mean, Zambrano's shoulder finally gives out, Wood does what he does best and Lee continues to be the shell of his 2005-self.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:33 AM EST up reply actions

True

The Cubs could implode, the Astros could be the 06 Cards, anything can happen that is true. That is the biggest problem with projections you just can't know what is going to happen before it happens, even in simulations software based on stats the 06 Cards are still in a tournament while the 04 was sent packing, who saw that coming?

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 10:36 AM EST up reply actions

Hmmmm...

I, for one, could see something like that happening. The reason the 2006 team won the number of games that they did was that they were banged up nearly the entire year until shortly before the playoffs started. You put that team on the field, healthy, for the entire season and they surely win 90+ games. They don't win as many games as the 2004 team probably, but there is no reason to think that a healthy 2006 team could still be kicking in a tournament while a 2004 team that got swept in the WS is out.

"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 Mar 7, 2008 10:59 AM EST up reply actions

06 stats

But their 06 stats are being used I assume, If the sim takes into account playing time and such as well then you don't even get Edmonds that much. But regardless it is an interesting system.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 11:02 AM EST up reply actions

Stats

I'm sure they're using '06 stats, but do those really take into account all the time missed when you're simulating a 7 game series? In other words, does Pujols miss one game of the series and does Duncan only play in 2 games since he was called up at midseason? Does Edmonds miss the first 2 or 3 games of the series because of his missed time?

Even if you take their stats I don't think that missed time is factored in, which is what I was trying to say. Healthy, that '06 team was nearly as good as the '04 team.

"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 Mar 7, 2008 12:08 PM EST up reply actions

Astros

Lineup:

Bourn - CF
Matsui - 2B
Tejada - SS
Lee - LF
Berkman - 1B
Pence - RF
Towles - C
Wigginton - 3B
Pitcher

Pitching:

Oswalt
W. Rodriguez
B. Backe
W. Williams
S. Chacon
SU Brocail
CL Valverde

OK -- that's the best top to bottom lineup in the NL Central, and short of a healthy Mets team, the best in the National League. There isn't an easy out from 1-7, and defensively Matsui and Bourn should be upgrades over who they had a year ago. Towles might be the best 7 hitter in the NL this year -- he's a huge upgrade over Ausmus' offense, even if he struggles. Not to mention, with that lineup playing in that stadium, their team ERA could probably be +5.00 at home and they'd be 10 games over .500.

They...are...going...to...score...runs. Period.

On the pitching side, they have a top 5 starter in Oswalt, a guy who pitched really well in the first half last year before the wheels fell off(Rodriguez), an effective guy (Backe) coming off of an injury, a washed up veteran (Williams), and a wild-card who has been effective as a starter in the past (Chacon). Honestly, Oswalt is the best pitcher in the division consistently, and Rodriguez had a first half of '07 that was very similar to Wainwright's. Backe is really their only injury concern. Valverde is an upgrade at closer, but they probably have the worst bullpen behind him in the division -- a lot of untested commodities in there.

There's no reason to think that they can't score enough runs to win some shootouts at home and they have a potential 20 game winner at the top of their rotation. That alone should be worth a .500 record or better.

"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 Mar 7, 2008 11:22 AM EST up reply actions

Their lineup's not better than the Cubs

and probably not better than the Brewers either. Their pitching staff is an absolute disaster and there's no help available from the minors when Backe and Williams get hurt or when Chacon/Borkowski falter. Their pen has taken a big step back also. They have no lefty and their 2nd best reliever is either Geoff Geary or Doug Brocail. They're going to lose a lot of leads in the 5th, 6th, and 7th.

by chuckb on Mar 7, 2008 3:07 PM EST up reply actions

I don't buy it...

Cubs:

Soriano
Derosa
Lee
Ramirez
Fukudome
Soto
Pie
Theriot

Brewers

Weeks
Hardy
Fielder
Braun
Hall
Hart
Cameron
Kendall

I don't see how you could say any of those lineups is considerably better than the Astros. Cameron and Kendall are both as bad at this point in their careers as Ty Wigginton. Fukudome, Soto, and Pie are complete unknown quantities at this point -- you have absolutely no idea what kind of production they're going to turn out. In a best case scenario, yes, they have more potential than the Astros. I also think that Braun and Fielder are probably going to regress a little bit this season as Braun adjusts to a new position and Fielder adjusts to not eating meat!

"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 Mar 7, 2008 3:50 PM EST up reply actions

I can't help but agree with you

I think the 'Stros have a potentially dangerous offense. Their pitching is suspect, but I can still see them winning 80+ games this, maybe more if everything goes right. A lineup with even a declining Tejada mixed in with Berkman, Lee, and Pence is nothing to spit at.

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

by redbirdnation8206 on Mar 7, 2008 10:37 AM EST up reply actions

5 teams over .500?

How do you reckon that's possible?

by matt reeder on Mar 7, 2008 10:47 AM EST up reply actions

The NL West had 4 last season

with unbalanced schedules and the extra NL team, it's possible.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:52 AM EST up reply actions

Correction:

I want to scale it back a bit. I think the Cardinals can win alot of games in the back half of the season with Mulder, Carpenter and Clement but I guess I shouldn't put my eggs in that basket:

87,89,79,85,73,81

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 2:06 PM EST up reply actions

I like it, but...

I like your optimism and your way of thinking about the Cubs...

I just can't see every team save one finishing above .500 in the NL Central

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 10:50 AM EST up reply actions

Barton

Isn't Ludwig the key to keeping Barton? If Barton stays, Ludgwig just goes to Memphis, right?

And then the starting five OFs would be:

Dunc
Rick
Juan
Skippy
Barton

I think the Skip vs. Barton dichotomy is premised upon a false opposition.

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Mar 7, 2008 10:24 AM EST reply actions

er, that's Ludwi[ck]

that is all

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Mar 7, 2008 10:26 AM EST up reply actions

Ludwick

I don't know Ludwick's contract status but I don't think he will start in Memphis, though I guess he could.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 10:27 AM EST up reply actions

Ludwick

He's got to be out of options... Dude's been up for parts of five different seasons.

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 11:06 AM EST up reply actions

No, that isn't the case at all

I did this the other day but can't find it:

Left handed OF:
Chris Duncan
Rick Ankiel
Colby Rasmus
Skippy

Defensive OF:
Rick Ankiel
Ryan Ludwick
Brian Barton
Colby Rasmus
Skippy

Right handed OF:
Ryan Ludwick
Brian Barton
Juan Gonzalez

Power OF bats:
Rick Ankiel
Chris Duncan
Ryan Ludwick
Juan Gonzalez

Barton probably has more power than Skippy, so he'd be atleast 5th on that chart.

Skippy should be 4th on any of these depthcharts.

Guaranteed jobs:
Rick Ankiel
Chris Duncan
Ryan Ludwick

Left to fill 1-2 roster spots:
Brian Barton
Colby Rasmus
Skippy
Juan Gonzalez

Rasmus is going to AAA to start the season, probably for economic reasons. That leaves 3 guys to fill 2 slots. Barton, if sent down is lost back in the Rule 5. Juan Gonzalez has a minor league contract, so CAN be sent down. Skippy is out of options.

If LaRussa is deadset on keeping Gonzalez's power, then it's down to Skippy or Barton, one of the two being lost to the team.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:30 AM EST up reply actions

Juan's playing time

Does anyone else think Juan's complete lack of field time is writing on the wall? He gets plate appearances, but doesn't seem to get time in the field.

That keeps me warm at night.

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 10:29 AM EST reply actions

Could be taken two ways

he could be only getting his ABs now so they can nurse him along (avoiding injury) so that his bat is ready for Opening Day and his is relatively fresh, or then, your thought of him being traded.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:31 AM EST up reply actions

The Bats the Thing

The organization has said before that they are primarily interested in Juan's bat: that if he can hit, he can play.

So the lack of field time may simply reflect that judgment.

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Mar 7, 2008 10:54 AM EST up reply actions

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AZRU!!!!!!!

75,87,80,86,71,82

I do have to say though, looking at this page about the clemens investigation on mlb

http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080306&content_id=2410249&vkey=news_ mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

I noticed that the IRS agent Jeff Novitzky on the page reminded me of something...

he's from the blue man group!!!

Cardwash - Cardinal, Washington fan (Washington???? Yeah, I know)

by cardwash on Mar 7, 2008 10:36 AM EST reply actions

thanks for the birthday wishes

by azruavatar on Mar 7, 2008 12:08 PM EST up reply actions

Happy birthday, Az!

I will add my good wishes to your day as well.

by cardsgirl95 on Mar 7, 2008 1:44 PM EST up reply actions

Happy Creation Day!

On this day in 1998, model number 86798-34B (prototype) was electrified and achieved sentience by his master and creator, Professor Hubert T. Farnsworth.

Instead of calling the professor "Father" as so many new robots do, 34B immediately connected to the internet via his info-port and began downloading and sorting statistical data from a human game known as "baseball".

He took the moniker "azruavatar" when he realized that humans in the blogosphere did not refer to themselves with numerical designations. He has been posting backlogs of his data manipulation and poorly-disguised-as-human robot anecdotes on Cardinals blogs ever since.

by arch support on Mar 7, 2008 2:38 PM EST up reply actions

Arm strength shouldn't matter

for Barton because in half of the situations where a big throw should be made, Mr. Ankiel should be the one throwing it in. If it takes Ankiel 2 more steps to get there, I would rather see him throw, so why not let that happen. If the arm is so bad, why not have Ankiel run in as a cutoff (better than Manny Ramirez though)? I think the Cardinals definitely need to trade someone to Cleveland and keep Barton. You can't send this guy back- too many tools...

by Jumsy on Mar 7, 2008 10:41 AM EST reply actions

Projections

75,84,71,88,75,81

by sdelek on Mar 7, 2008 10:41 AM EST reply actions

OT - Is there something wrong with Kyle Lohse?

In the last few weeks, teams like the Phillies, Rangers, Mets, etc have said they have no interest in signing Kyle Lohse.

I understand that he is very league averagish and doesn't deserve a multi-year deal but as Todd Wellemeyer continues to walk 4 batters an appearance this spring and we have yet to see Joel Pineiro pitch, isn't it about time Mo 'call' in this poker game and off Lohse a 1 y/$4 M deal with incentives that could reach up to $6 M?

I mean, if we are watching Ponson as a viable pitching option, can we really act so 'clean' that we can't go after Lohse?

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 10:42 AM EST reply actions

Joel

Pineiro pitches today, I wonder if they are waiting to see how he does before getting serious on Lohse.

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 10:49 AM EST up reply actions

same old same old.

75,87,80,87,65,84

Ugh. It's a good thing the Brewers are my second-favorite NL team (third overall, after the Mariners). I'd much rather it be 75,94,101,64,81 and 77. Fat chance!

by matt reeder on Mar 7, 2008 10:43 AM EST reply actions

dovetail

as it happens, Matt, MY favorite three teams are the same as yours: 1. Cardinals, of course; 2. Seattle; 3. Brewers

In my case I think it is because I love that gravel-voiced Mariners announcers (and their radio technique as a whole), and I listen to Uecker at least a few times a week for laughs.

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 3:03 PM EST up reply actions

Teams

The Cards are clearly above and beyond my favorite team.

But I think its fun to see who others follow.

My No 2 is the Devil Rays- reasoning is that I've seen them play live several times, I like their young talented players, and I don't foresee them as a huge threat (whatsoever) to the Cards.

My No 3 is probably the Brewers- reasoning is that I have spent four weekends in Milwaukee watching them play the Cards, and I really like the city and the stadium. The fact that they are better than the Cards right now (on paper) bothers me a little...but then the fact that they have a shot to keep the Cubs from winning cheers me up.

I've seen games in other cities as well, but I think its the repeat visits that make me appreciate other teams, cities, fans. And that's why TB and MIL are 2/3 on my list.

by mwinf12 on Mar 7, 2008 3:27 PM EST up reply actions

that's cool.

In my case, it's because I have family in Milwaukee and I've lived in Oregon (well, right now I live in France...but I'll be back in Oregon in July) for awhile and always root for the Mariners when they're not playing the Cards.

by matt reeder on Mar 7, 2008 6:22 PM EST up reply actions

NL Central Projection

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

82,87,72,92,66,89

"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 Mar 7, 2008 10:50 AM EST reply actions

Dusty Baker quote

"He needs to swing some more. I talked to him about that. ... I think a lot of this on-base percentage is taking away some of the aggressiveness of some of the young kids to swing the bat."

He is talking about young hitter Joey Votto and then included Adam Dunn later in the convo. I think my bullish view of the Reds may be way too much now.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 11:07 AM EST reply actions

This is why I refuse

to predict the Reds' win total. Baker is really good at getting a lot out of veteran players, but his understanding of how you actually win baseball games is questionable. So which of those traits will have the greater effect in Cincy this year? Looks like a crapshoot.

by MdRedbirdFreak on Mar 7, 2008 2:22 PM EST up reply actions

AWESOME, Dusty!

You show those crazy stats guys how REAL ballplayers WIN! On Base Percentage?!? Pshaw. That's for pitchers and pansy-@ss defensive specialists who can't hit! You know how to guarantee "getting on base" every time? Hit the ball over the damn fence.

OMG, that is unbelievably funny. If anyone in the Reds front office has a brain, they are probably FREAKING OUT right now...

There are 10 types of people in the world. Those who understand binary, and those who don't.

by Mr Clean on Mar 7, 2008 3:43 PM EST up reply actions

If they had brains

they wouldn't have hired the bonehead in the first place. What I'd really love would be for Dusty to talk Joe Morgan into going back into uniform as bench coach. That would be an awesome 1-2 punch.

by MdRedbirdFreak on Mar 7, 2008 4:25 PM EST up reply actions

That's so hilarious

That I thought you'd made it up.

Not so. The comment thread is growing rather heated.

Baker'll be mocked savagely at FJM in 3...2...1...

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 5:55 PM EST up reply actions

My take

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

78,86,89,88,72,80

GO CARDS!!!

by SuperSeve on Mar 7, 2008 11:07 AM EST reply actions

Thanks

For the linky love, but it's not necessary... Feel free to just copy the gameday links if'n you want 'em.

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 11:07 AM EST reply actions

Did you see

Did you see the link yesterday that someone posted that has all the Gameday links for each day? http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/#20080307

by StLHugo on Mar 7, 2008 11:11 AM EST up reply actions

I did

Had no idea they were posted anywhere at MLB.com... Guess I'll have to find another way to feign usefulness.

I'll keep posting them, though, for three reasons: it's no work for me, a few googlers find what they're looking for at that post, and I like running the gameday in a FF tab instead of in a dedicated window—it's one less step to two-button click the link than to use MLB's javascript.

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 11:35 AM EST up reply actions

brew crews win

74,92,75,87,73,81

by lboros on Mar 7, 2008 11:11 AM EST reply actions

Miller Park

70,90,78,85,65,83

by mwinf12 on Mar 7, 2008 11:16 AM EST reply actions

Post didpatch says Ponson

dialed it up to 93/94 and dropped 20 pounds.

Maybe he is ready finally.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Mar 7, 2008 11:17 AM EST reply actions

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

72,92,80,91,69,82

by saladdays on Mar 7, 2008 11:18 AM EST reply actions

another long summer

68,85,76,89,72,84

by DCGreg on Mar 7, 2008 11:34 AM EST reply actions

Cubs begin their fade

72,89,75,86,67,87

Just like the 2004 season after the 2003 season, in which the Cubs made the playoffs, the 2008 season will start with high expectations for Chicago, but they will begin to fade into another few years of bad baseball, once their backloaded contracts catch up with them.

Cardinal fan in the heart of Braves country

by Mr Redbird on Mar 7, 2008 11:39 AM EST reply actions

Guessing game...

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

88,90,81,78,72,81

by indakind on Mar 7, 2008 11:40 AM EST reply actions

Weak division

81,89,74,89,67,84

What about using Barton's knee as an excuse to stash him on the DL/rehab assignment until Juan's body fails him? That can't be past, what, late April?

by awpierce on Mar 7, 2008 11:44 AM EST reply actions

central

78,88,69,91,68,82

by lightbulb on Mar 7, 2008 11:46 AM EST reply actions

Prediction

w/o regard to finish, only to numbers

astros,brewers,cards,cubs,pirates,reds
78,86,74,88,78,78

cards really only have one + pitcher so that's the breaks.

by jimitoofast on Mar 7, 2008 11:47 AM EST reply actions

central

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

75,86,74,88,68,81

Juan Gonzalez actually doesn't know the meaning of the word "retirement."

by Alxfritz on Mar 7, 2008 12:35 PM EST reply actions

going with my heart...

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

71,90,85,82,76,84

D.GOOCH

Cardinals, Cardinals, Cardinals!

by GOOCH24 on Mar 7, 2008 12:36 PM EST reply actions

Goold on Barton (correspondence)...

I wrote:
I'm very discouraged by what you've been writing in the PD. Brian Barton was an absolute steal in the Rule V draft and there should be almost no way he doesn't make this team. Somewhere between Juan Mateo & Luna? Barton has all the potential to be a regular starter in the outfield. His upside is enormous. Is Tony really going to base the decision on keeping him on a few spring training at bats? That just seems crazy to me. D.GOOCH

Goold replied:

Quote:
Keep in mind we're writing on March 6, and potential only goes so far for a Rule 5 pick. It most likely that he's got to make the team to help the team or even stay with the team. So, it's great that he has a lot of tools -- and he clearly, clearly does -- but those tools have to turn into production. Until recent games, he has been surprisingly unpolished in workouts and batting practice. He falls between Hector Luna and Juan Mateo because, well, Luna made the team and stayed with the team and Mateo never really got the chance to show what he had because of the visa issues.

Barton is closer to Luna on the spectrum than he is to Mateo, but he's still between the two. He has several weeks to move the needle, and maybe even more than that because of the knee ...

D.GOOCH

Cardinals, Cardinals, Cardinals!

by GOOCH24 on Mar 7, 2008 12:37 PM EST reply actions

That's still disingenuous

He makes it seem as if skill wise he is along the lines of Hector Luna, not position with the team wise.

Barton is a better player NOW than Luna was and certainly will be in his career.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 2:04 PM EST up reply actions

That's not fair

Luna would fill a very real need on that 2004 team—and his best competition in Spring was Bodhi Hart.

Brian Barton's competing against Schumaker, Rasmus, Juan Gonzalez, Ludwick, et al..

Luna had the third most AB's that Spring and hit the ball well. All Goold's saying is that, so far, Barton hasn't looked like he's the leader in the competitions he's in. Luna was the best candidate for U-IF in 2004, Mateo never had a chance, and Barton's in between—he's got a shot, but hasn't proven himself to be the best candidate as lead-off man, center fielder, power-bat bench outfielder, or defensive-sub OF.

Say what you will about Schumaker, but he's a far better player than Bo Hart, and so far he's beating Barton out at three of those four roles. That can change—and so said Goold. Nothing disingenuous there.

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 5:33 PM EST up reply actions

Just to be clear

I don't want to lose Barton any more than anyone else around here, but I'd rather not lose both Skip to waivers and then Barton later if he can't put it together.

(And so, I'm rooting against Juan Gonzalez' chances to make the team.)

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 5:45 PM EST up reply actions

Is he really beating Barton out?

Barton goes 3-3 tomorrow with a triple and he will have negated Skippy's gains.

Again, Skippy will get the benefit of the doubt in all ties or percieved ties by LaRussa. It won't be whether or not Barton CAN be a better player over the next 5 years, it is whether Skippy has better stats on March 31st after having jumped through all the hoops LaRussa wanted him to the last 3 seasons.

Barton will have to go on a power tear to stay on this team.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 6:38 PM EST up reply actions

This is the conundrum the Cardinals face

I don't think the question, from the team's perspective, is whether Barton is the better player over the next 5 years but who is the better player this year. For whatever reason, they still see to be unwilling to concede that they are longshots to make the playoffs this year. They have to keep Barton on the roster (or DL) for the whole season and if they think that damages their marginal playoff chances, they'll cut Barton. I don't agree with that view point but the difference between Skip and Barton right now is something like 1 win over a full season.

by azruavatar on Mar 7, 2008 6:53 PM EST up reply actions

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

68,84,85,84,72,70

by finmsully on Mar 7, 2008 12:39 PM EST reply actions

Astros, Brewers, Cards, Cubs, Buccos, Redlegs

69, 84, 80, 90, 67, 88

that's as optimistic as I can be for our boys

by tdawg on Mar 7, 2008 1:06 PM EST reply actions

Colby

Hell yeah. HR to right.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 1:11 PM EST reply actions

And then

Albert with a bomb.

The hot stove is burning...

by cardzfan24 on Mar 7, 2008 1:12 PM EST up reply actions

And Jimenez

It's home run derby!

by mikedallas23 @ Viva El Birdos on Mar 7, 2008 1:37 PM EST up reply actions

Division Projection

76,91,83,82,73,80

by Fred Head on Mar 7, 2008 1:31 PM EST reply actions

Jimenez homers

Wind must be blowing out.

... yep 21 mph left to right.

Skippy with another hit.

Unofficial President of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by stltrav09 on Mar 7, 2008 1:39 PM EST reply actions

NL Central

77,85,74,88,67,81

by joedick on Mar 7, 2008 1:45 PM EST reply actions

wins

74,87,69,86,68,81

i'm assuming albert goes out at some point. call it the mike cameron effect for the nl central champion brewers

Amaury's birthday is uncertain because Marti does not age. Every birthday, it's just another year added to his existence, which sucks for opposing pitchers.

by erik on Mar 7, 2008 1:47 PM EST reply actions

Pujols is looking good ...

for a guy with a torn ligament.

By the way I think this is overblown.

Dayn Perry has him listed as a spring injury victim.

It just goes to show you how little he knows when it comes to baseball.

Albert tore it in 2003 not spring training.

If it goes it goes. No different than the last couple of years.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Mar 7, 2008 1:50 PM EST reply actions

I see what you're sayin..

but a torn ligament, bone spurs, and arthritis is overblown??

I had bone spurs 3 in my right elbow 3 years ago and it cost me my senior season. I could barely even grip a baseball it hurt so bad. It didn't effect swinging though (unfortunately for me, i wasn't much of a hitter).

Unofficial President of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by stltrav09 on Mar 7, 2008 1:53 PM EST up reply actions

PLus, wasn't it reported at

winter warmup that he couldn't fully extend his elbow?

by sdrone on Mar 7, 2008 2:01 PM EST up reply actions

Yes and yes...

I am calling the attention overblown because it is not a new development.

"Why does he keep saying that?"

by Red Blazer on Mar 7, 2008 3:45 PM EST up reply actions

Gameday

is actually doing balls and strikes today!

Unofficial President of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by stltrav09 on Mar 7, 2008 1:51 PM EST reply actions

Pineiro Final Line

Not bad.

3 ip, 2 hits, 1 run, 0 walks, 1 K

The run was a solo HR by Nomar.

Kyle McClellan in now.

Unofficial President of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by stltrav09 on Mar 7, 2008 2:05 PM EST reply actions

Was it a wind aided HR?

I just got home.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 2:07 PM EST up reply actions

I'm not sure BUT

the wind is blowing L to R 21 mph.

fwiw, D'Angelo Jimenez has a homerun as well so that could be an indicator.

Unofficial President of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by stltrav09 on Mar 7, 2008 2:09 PM EST up reply actions

the only HR

all day that was definitely the fault of the wind was ankiel's. It just snuck over. Albert's was a blast- probably close to 500 feet- it cleared the scoreboard by at least 15 feet and also cleared the second fence, landing in the parking lot behind the stadium.

It's hard to tell on the others; most were no-doubters, but the wind was blowing very hard.

by SleepyCA on Mar 7, 2008 6:35 PM EST up reply actions

w's

71,86,80,86,64,81

Maybe its the hockey fan in me that likes ties?

I still have positive feelings above the cards winning the division, but reality sinks in and boom goes the dynamite. I really hope barton manages to stay on the club.

"Textbooks are Soviet propaganda" - Rev. Jerry Falwell

by elirock83 on Mar 7, 2008 2:29 PM EST reply actions

DFA Kennedy 2008

I'd like to formally announce my campaign to DFA Kennedy effective April 1, 2008. I was inspired to start the campaign by something that Dr. King called the "fierce urgency of now," namely the urgent truth that right now Kennedy can't hit worth a spit.

Please join me in my campaign, and together we'll rid our team of the worst acquisition we've made since Tito Martinez.

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Mar 7, 2008 2:56 PM EST reply actions

I agree completely...

But, let's add Izturis to the list and get rid of them both. I'm already sick of listening to them both make outs.

Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...

by Cardinals4Ever on Mar 7, 2008 3:04 PM EST up reply actions

I don't believe i can sign on to that

that would be another like 8 mil or what ever for some one to not play baseball, that and it would also means miles would play 162. I am willing to give the guy another year.

"Textbooks are Soviet propaganda" - Rev. Jerry Falwell

by elirock83 on Mar 7, 2008 3:07 PM EST up reply actions

Pretty much 8

Yup, it would be 7.5 million i think?

But, considering the Cardinals don't seem to mind nickle and dime-ing long shot projects like Mulder, Clement, JuanGone, Ponson, etc...

I wouldn't mind DFA'n him and considering the 7.5 million dollars money spent to see what Hoff or Jimenez could do.

Of course, as you stated, it would probably be 7.5 million to see what Miles could do.

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 3:15 PM EST up reply actions

The Cow's Out of the Barn

I guess my point is that the Spring is providing enough evidence to conclude that this money already has gone down the drain, i.e., we are not going to see any kind of return on this money, so why not mitigate a little by getting him off the roster. I'd even be okay with him getting some elective surgery to place himself on the DL.

This is addition by subtraction.

So says, The Dude

by Titus Pullo on Mar 7, 2008 3:29 PM EST up reply actions

Add me to the list

I was willing to give AK another chance, but it seems as if he's not even trying.

Talk about a bust.

Unofficial President of the Skip Schumaker Fan Club

by stltrav09 on Mar 7, 2008 3:15 PM EST up reply actions

Count me in

I'll do anything for the campaign... serve coffee, make calls, knock on doors.

by the Tewk on Mar 7, 2008 3:15 PM EST up reply actions

See my post yesterday

about the website we should start "DFAKennedyandIzturis.com"

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 5:03 PM EST up reply actions

Izturis

will be cut sometime soon, right?

Juan Gonzalez actually doesn't know the meaning of the word "retirement."

by Alxfritz on Mar 7, 2008 3:16 PM EST reply actions

depends

kennedy might get cut first. one of those guys isnt going to make it out of spring. i guess they could both get cut since their replacements (ryan, jimenez, barden) would be paid next to nothing.

by dmb60614 on Mar 7, 2008 4:38 PM EST up reply actions

My turn to screw this up

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

72,89,84,86,69,79

by Harknights on Mar 7, 2008 3:27 PM EST reply actions

I'm back from the future and this is what I saw:

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

76,89,76,88,70,81

Oh, and while I was in the future, I checked on the winning Powerball numbers for this Saturday's $200MM drawing. I forgot to write them down, but I'm pretty sure they were 8,25,29,30,48 and PB 4.

There are 10 types of people in the world. Those who understand binary, and those who don't.

by Mr Clean on Mar 7, 2008 3:33 PM EST reply actions

Ankiel

did I see correctly. He went opposite field twice for hits? Maybe he stopped watching his Darryl Evens hitting video. (It was most likely on Beta so it might have just broke.)

by Harknights on Mar 7, 2008 3:37 PM EST reply actions

And I bet he knows how to spell

Darrell Evans

by Harknights on Mar 7, 2008 3:38 PM EST up reply actions

It's a long hard slog...

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

77,89,84,88,72,80

"It takes pitching, hitting and defense. Any two can win. All three make you unbeatable". Joe Garagiola

by MRCARD on Mar 7, 2008 3:42 PM EST reply actions

my turn

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

74,86,76,89,71,81

by mtalken on Mar 7, 2008 4:42 PM EST reply actions

NL Central

78,91,74,87,72,79

by Wizard24 on Mar 7, 2008 4:55 PM EST reply actions

Brew Crew's year

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

81,90,77,88,72,81

Don't see the Astros in the mix - they're built to win now, and that rarely works.

The Cards - it's the "in 2006 I got to sleep with a really hot chick, and in 2007 I was still aglow, so this year I realize that I'm still an ugly schmuck and she was drunk" year.

Cubs - Close, but I think the Brew Crew is going to be better defensively than last year, with last year's experience under their belt they should beat the Cubs. Also think MKE's starting pitching is better.

Pirates - Great AAA teams don't count.

Reds - Love Jr., but I'm not jumping the bandwagon.

"The Food Channel: Porn for fat people"

by bukowski on Mar 7, 2008 5:01 PM EST reply actions

Brian Barton...

I've also been pretty miffed about comments concerning BB's arm. Eckstein wasn't exactly a plus arm at shortstop but he had other attributes that were deemed worthy of playing time. Meanwhile, he was placed on an arm strengthening program to address the concerns with his arm (or lack thereof).

Take a look at Brian Barton. We need a lead-off hitter who has a gift for getting on base (which apparently is what TLR is looking for). Coincidentally, we also need an outfielder to take some swings from the right side. Lastly, we need to get younger. Brian Barton provides us all of these things. To me, keeping him off of this team because of he has a below average arm is not an adequate reason. Why couldn't we place BB on a similar arm strengthening program?

by AndyB83 on Mar 7, 2008 5:35 PM EST reply actions

I' m in and I want to believe!

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds
77,87,89,86,70,82

I am trying to create some positive forces that will propel the Cards to the WS and we win the whole thing.

I also believe I can levitate the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy at the same time just using my brain waves...

Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona. ~George F. Will, Men at Work: The Craft of Baseball, 1990

by RosevilleRedbird on Mar 7, 2008 5:42 PM EST reply actions

NL Central Projections

70,87,74,96,65,85

That hurt me to type that in all ways imaginable to man.

Also, in regards to the arm strength, if he is accurate than that makes up for a ton of distance. I don't think Jimmy Baseball had all that strong an arm, but 9 times out of 10 his throw was on-line.

by boredatwork on Mar 7, 2008 5:43 PM EST reply actions

NL Central Win Totals

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

75,86,70,91,68,79

by retireSimba23 on Mar 7, 2008 5:50 PM EST reply actions

victoires

77,90,74,89,71,80

by Hungry Jack on Mar 7, 2008 6:06 PM EST reply actions

NL central win projections

77,86,87,85,70,83

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

imagine the Cardinals stunning everybody in 2008

by Johnny64 on Mar 7, 2008 6:16 PM EST reply actions

Guessing....

71,87,80,89,67,77

A weak division, with a close race between the Brewers and the Cubs. I cling to the hope that the Cards might not be eliminated until mid-September.

PS: remember the year when it turned out this way?

82,75,83,66,67,80

by madridbend on Mar 7, 2008 7:09 PM EST reply actions

Wins...

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds
75,85,74,88,71,77

by glennrwordman on Mar 7, 2008 7:29 PM EST reply actions

Here goes

Astros,Brewers,Cardinals,Cubs,Pirates,Reds

71,85,75,87,65,74

by patton044 on Mar 7, 2008 7:40 PM EST reply actions

NL Central's getting better

76,87,88,83,73,81

by 82Special on Mar 7, 2008 7:46 PM EST reply actions

2008 Victory Projections ...

Astros,Brews,Cards,Cubs,Pits,Reds

78,85,88,84,70,77

Qualifier: If Albert stays healthy. Otherwise Cards 80.

Slightly improved division, but still a close race.

Culture of Winning: 10 World Championships, 17 Pennants, 6 Division Championships ...

by Cardinals4Ever on Mar 7, 2008 7:50 PM EST reply actions

EDMONDS IS BACK!!!!!!!

...to his old ways.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080307&content_id=2410408&vkey=spt2008news&fex t=.jsp&c_id=mlb

"Even on a great year you have to watch your team loose about 60 times."

by tangledbrett on Mar 7, 2008 8:25 PM EST reply actions

That's not very nice...

The article says the Friars are considering using Callix Crabbe in center—their Rule 5 pick this year and a nice little player I've been keeping an eye on the past few years. That's good for him.

by liam on Mar 7, 2008 8:55 PM EST up reply actions

Getting a read from the PD

it certainly seems like Barton is being bumped even further down the depth chart with both Marti and Mather 'peaking' TLR's interest. Both very right-handed and both very OF'ers.

Doesn't look good for Barton with each passing day.

Ugh.

Still looking for 1985 Regular Season games on DVD/VHS

by Hardcore Legend on Mar 7, 2008 8:44 PM EST reply actions

If Barton

is passed over for Mather, I'd be okay with that. Juan Gone, not so much.

Juan Gonzalez actually doesn't know the meaning of the word "retirement."

by Alxfritz on Mar 7, 2008 10:04 PM EST up reply actions

mather has also looked good

especially defensively. I had heard Mather was bad, but he has seemed to be very good in both LF and 1B. He's definitely much, much better than Phelps at first.

Otoh, every ball Marti has hit has been hit hard, but he hasn't played in the field this week (that I can remember). He was the DH at least twice.

Anyway, Marti and Mather are both corner OF's, only, and Barton adds value in that he can play CF and has speed. Though I've not seen marti chase a ball yet, I can't picture him in CF. Mather might have a shot as spezio's replacement, but certainly not Marti.

I bet we see Marti in September though...

FWIW I'm pretty sure Barton was not on the trip to dodgertown today, though neither was Chris Duncan, so don't read too much into that. Duncan had his wrists taped the other day in BP, and he's had almost no playing time this week, so I'm kind of worried about him.

by SleepyCA on Mar 7, 2008 10:51 PM EST up reply actions

It pains me,

but this could very well be the Cubs year:

76,84,88,91,64,78

All will go right for us this year.

Of course the Cubs have looked pretty good on paper for quite some time.

by chicagocardfan on Mar 7, 2008 8:50 PM EST reply actions

Who's decision?

You know what really irks me about the Brian Barton issue?

Who's decision should it be whether or not he makes the roster? In an issue where we would lose a player (Rule 5) if he doesn't make the team...should the field manager be the one calling the shots? Shouldn't the GM make the call?

I think TLR should be able to call the shots about playing time, but he shouldn't be call the shots on who makes the team.

All this stuff inferred that TLR won't pick Barton over the other candidates ruffles me for that reason.

Is MO a straw-GM? Am I wrong on who should make the call? Is the press and all of us giving more authority to TLR than he really has?

by RedbirdRay on Mar 7, 2008 9:53 PM EST reply actions