Here's some footage of AAA hecklers witnessing Ank's struggles cerca 2001:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=I3GnaUBKXtI

Obviously, Rick has become a valuable offensive weapon, but this video reminds us just how much he had to overcome mentally.   I rather like his offense as a centerfielder, but Rasmus is probably  better defender at this point and will take over whenever he is ready.  I definitely wouldn't mind having Rick play rf for us in the future. 

As I type this post, I am watching the NCAA Super regional with AZ St and Fresno and getting a couple of looks at the Cards #1 draft choice.  A few things: first, this kid is an intimidating presence in the box, man.  He has these tree trunks sewn to his pelvis.  These must be his generator of awesome power.   Second, I think this guy might be able to play a league average third base.  Some scouting reports I've read mention that he can run fairly well given his badonkadonk (several steals here and there) and has sure feet.  Third, this guy is NOT fat.  I caught this interview on 1380am with Wallace wherein he said that he was down to 9.5% body fat--he's packing some serious muscles in them saddle bags.   My hunch on his defensive capacity was somewhat seconded by a great play he made at 3rd in the 8th inning; Wallace ventures into foul territory to stop sure run-scoring, ground-ball double and throws across his body to get the speedy college player at first, giving AZst a chance in the top of the 8th. 

I dunno.  Maybe the scouts are right and he won't stick, but he'll give 3rd base a worthy try.  He also said on the radio interview that he can play LF.  Or maybe the Cards will be forced to look elsewhere when Albert's contract expires in the next decade.  Wallace will be that guy.  

Finlally, the 1380 interview also revealed that Wallace liked how the wooden bats handled in the Cape league.  I'm getting excited.

Almost lost in the discussion about the last game was subject of the pinch runner for Glaus in the 9th inning.  My fantasy update says that he has a stiff back.  Is able to play tonight?  Or is he going to be on the bench

BTW, did Barton say/do something that drew the ire of La Russa?  Why did Miles pinch hit earlier in that game and not Barton?  Let's see what BB does tonight.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=crasnick_jerry&id=2871894&lpos=spotlig ht&lid=tab5pos1

Check out this article rating the various free agent pitchers from last off-season.  We really could have held onto Suppan, he's much better than Wells.  Even when Carp was healthy, the GM and ownership could have ponied up some more money.

I was just watching the WS 2006 celebration video and I saw Mr. Weaver.  Who thinks we should bring him back for, say, 6/year+ incentives?  I'd like him over a 10/year Suppan.  I know that the market has inflated guys' values to a large extent, no more so than the Jason Marquis signing.  Nevertheless, I think Dave could work with Jeff a little bit more, get him back to top form for Weaver.  Your thoughts?