Ponson released by Cardinals

I'm not at all surprised by this. Nice knowing ya, Sid!

Ponson, designated for assignment Friday hours after making a quality start in a loss against the Houston Astros, is due to clear release waivers this afternoon, according to sources. Any team willing to assume the remainder of the righthander's guaranteed $1 million salary plus a potential $1.5 million in appearance incentives may claim him; Ponson retains the right to reject any claim and become a free agent.

Released largely of his inability to pitch deep into games and a refusal last month to embrace his transfer to the bullpen, Ponson has attracted significant interest from the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox and could accept a bid from either club if he clears waivers.

The P-D takes a look at the midseason report.

MVP: Pujols
Cy: Carpenter

Comeback(s) of the year
1. Scott Rolen, from last August's season-ending shoulder surgery to make the All-Star team and lead the Cardinals in extra-base hits.
2. Scott Spiezio's return from the career dead.
3. The Cardinals rallying from six runs down to beat Milwaukee 10-6 and snap a three-game losing streak June 9. The win gave St. Louis a lead it hasn't relinquished.

Before the next part, I will say that Jim Edmonds is starting to show his bat again and returning to his old form.

Second-half wish list:
1. Jim Edmonds' bat.
2. Mulder's health.
3. Walt Jocketty's ability to find two of three, in order of preference: a veteran starting pitcher, a power bat or a resilient reliever with Al Reyes' qualities.