tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-230575802024-03-14T07:12:18.000-04:00Redbirds FunDevoted to the St. Louis Cardinals baseball organizationDanielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.comBlogger614125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-48591432741569372352015-03-10T16:37:00.006-04:002015-03-10T16:37:58.272-04:00All-Cardinals Fantasy Baseball Team<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">The
St. Louis Cardinals are one of the most successful franchises in MLB history.
With a slew of World Series titles, they have certainly had their fair share of
outstanding individuals. Five players stand above the rest when looking at the
all-time talents. Here’s a closer look at those players anyone would want on
their fantasy baseball team.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Stan
Musial</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">While
Stan Musial was never really considered to be the absolute best player in his
era, it is hard to argue that any player in baseball history has meant more to
the St. Louis Cardinals than him. He spent his entire career with the
franchise, and he hit .331 with 475 home runs and 1951 RBI during that time.
His 3 MVP awards in the National League are a big reason why he has a statue
out in front of the stadium.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Albert
Pujols</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">If
you look at Pujols’ time with </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">St. Louis</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">, you can make an
argument that he was every bit the player Musial was. The only problem is, he
didn’t do it for as long. Not only that, but some fans might still be slightly
bitter about him leaving after World Series championship to sign as a free
agent with the Los Angeles Angels. Nonetheless, he was a </span><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.fanduel.com/fantasy-baseball"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14pt;">fantasy baseball</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">
superstar when he was with the Cardinals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Rogers
Hornsby</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Some
people think Hornsby is the best 2<sup>nd</sup> basemen of all time. That is
pretty high praise for a guy who only comes in 3<sup>rd</sup> on this list. He
has the second-highest batting average of all time, and he was able to win the
1925 National League MVP award. He was in a particularly great teammate, and
his defense wasn’t spectacular either, but his bat is legendary.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Bob
Gibson</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">In
1968, Bob Gibson had one of the best seasons for a pitcher in baseball history.
He was pretty solid during his entire career with the St. Louis Cardinals, and
he is almost unanimously thought of as the best pitcher of all time for the
franchise.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Ozzie
Smith</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt;">If
there was a way to somehow combine Smith and Hornsby, you would have the
perfect player. Smith is considered to be one of the best defenders in baseball
history, and he won 13 straight Gold gloves at shortstop. Not only was he
talented, but he was charismatic off the field. He never was much of a hitter,
but he was the face of the franchise in the 1980s and early 1990s.</span></div>
Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-77617867670576485772013-04-30T06:59:00.004-04:002013-04-30T06:59:53.262-04:00Who are the favourites to win the World Series this season?People start putting down future bets on the winners of the World Series well in advance of the start of the MLB season, but with that start now just days away, this betting is really starting to heat up. It is expected to be a closely fought season, with a number of sides in both the American League (AL) and National League (NL) considered to be capable of going all the way, and this competitiveness is reflected in the pre-season odds information.<br />
<br />
Although the Washington Nationals are nominally the favourites, with World Series odds of just 8/1, there are actually a number of other sides with similar low odds. The Nationals secure pre-season favourite status ahead of the likes of the Detroit Tigers, LA Angels and LA Dodgers purely on account of having these odds at more betting sites. It will be a tough ask for their relatively inexperienced team to move from winning last season’s NL East Division, to winning the World Series – and the expensively assembled teams from LA will not be in the mood to let them have it all their own way. Having spent somewhere in the region of £230 million on their payroll, the Dodgers in particular, cannot really tolerate failure.<br />
<br />
Where this leaves those looking to put a future bet on the winners is anyone’s guess, but luckily nowadays other options are easy to come by and some may find it less daunting to play Hot Shot at an online casino like <a href="http://www.mobileslots.net/">www.mobileslots.net</a>. Hot Shot is possibly the finest baseball themed slots machine game around, due to a combination of traditional slot features like cheap play and a good jackpot ($2000) with the kind of immersive baseball graphics and audio effects that make the game appealing to baseball lovers. For example, every time you get a winning reel, you will hear the sound of a bat whacking a baseball into touch, and these features really make Hot Shot a perfect game for any real fan of the MLB.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-62794838196158021822013-02-07T14:20:00.001-05:002013-02-07T14:20:28.705-05:00A Look at The Future for the Cardinals<b id="ecxinternal-source-marker_0.29784826724790037" style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">With a World Series win in 2011 and a playoff appearance in 2012, the future might not be on the minds of most Cardinals fans. However, with some of the star players aging, and the recent injury news for Chris Carpenter, St. Louis might be looking at their farm system for help sooner rather than later. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fortunately, they have a number of players full of potential waiting in the wings.<b> </b>Whether they make it to the majors with the Cardinals or they are used for trade bait, here are the three best.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Oscar Taveras</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The outfielder might be the best prospect in all of baseball (with Jurickson Profar, Dylan Bundy and Wil Myers all making strong cases and it will be interesting to see who goes first in <span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://www.fanduel.com/fantasy-baseball">fantasy baseball 2013</a> drafts). Taveras is a lefty who has plate coverage that resembles that of future Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taveras will enter 2013 as a 20-year old, and since he has not played past AA so far, he will more than likely spend the majority of the season in the minors. However, if he can continues to progress with his raw power and defensive ability, he could be in St. Louis soon.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shelby Miller</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">When it comes to the whole package, there are few right-handed pitcher in the minors better than Shelby Miller. Nothing really blows a person away, but he has above average stuff, solid size and a fastball that <b>h</b>its in the low to mid 90s. He will turn 23 late in the season, so chances are he will get an extended trial in the majors this season.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This past season was not one of Miller’s best, but he was able to fix some of his mechanical issues to get back on track. He is hoping to ride his strong finish to 2012 into an opening day roster spot in 2013.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Carlos Martinez</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">At just six foot (being generous) and 165 pounds (also generous), Martinez does not have the prototypical size of a star pitcher in the making. However, neither did a guy with the last name Martinez and the first name Pedro. Martinez’ stuff gives him top of the rotation potential, with a mid-90s fastball than can hit triple-digits if he dials it up. His curveball and changeup are already above-average pitches, and the 21-year old continues to get better.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="ecxkix-line-break" />Health issues have already cropped up with Martinez, which is a cause for concern when a guy is that small and throwing so hard. If he can stay healthy, a 2013 appearance might be in the<b> </b>cards.</span></span></b>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-39829996866467782222012-04-15T12:46:00.000-04:002012-04-15T12:47:05.334-04:00Book Review: Jewish Major Leaguers in the Own Words<center><iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=thekentuckyde-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0786465077" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe></center><span style="font-weight:bold;">Paperback:</span> 227 pages<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Publisher:</span> <a href="http://www.mcfarlandpub.com">McFarland</a> (March 5, 2012)<br /><br />Written by Peter Ephross with Martin Abramowitz, this book is a oral history of 23 former major league baseball players.<br /><br />When you think of Jewish ballplayers, the first three that people tend to think of are Hank Greenberg, Sandy Koufax, and Shawn Green. At least, that's how it is in my case. There have been well over 100 Jewish baseball players and appendix of the entire list follows at the end.<br /><br />Sandy Koufax gets mentioned a lot, especially from Larry and Norm Sherry, but that's about it. He was not interviewed for the project as he's become somewhat of a recluse since he retired.<br /><br />Peter Epross, a longtime editor for the <span style="font-style:italic;">Jewish Telegraphic Agency</span>, did a superb job editing down what probably could have been 1000 pages into 227 pages. We get more of a "what's it like" for Jewish ballplayers than anything else.<br /><br />Jewish Major Leaguers, Inc. sponsored many of the interviews that were provided by president Martin Abramowitz.<br /><br />While I think that there could possibly have been room for a Shawn Green, I can see why they limited to 23 players. Most of the players were from the pre-70s although there were some that made their debut later like Jesse Levis. He shared a funny story about Shawn Green wishing him and umpire Al Clark a "Happy New Year" on Rosh HaShanah.<br /><br />That's another thing that's brought up. Taking off for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur. One player, who had a Jewish coach, said he had no interest in taking off for Rosh HaShanah but then the coach talked him into it.<br /><br />We get a sense of how players responded to anti-Semitism both on and off the field. We also see how they developed a rapport with the African-American players who were dealing with the restrictions in the Deep South.<br /><br />In reading, I could not believe the numbers that played for the Chicago Cubs but also that <a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bautijo01.shtml">Jose Bautista</a>, a player who came from the Dominican Republic, is a member of the tribe.<br /><br />Jesse Levis also shared a story of being invited to Bud Selig's house for Rosh HaShanah dinner.<br /><br />If you are Jewish and a baseball fan, this is a very good book and I highly recommend it. In fact, I give it the following grade: A+<br /><br />You can purchase the book directly from <a href="http://www.mcfarlandpub.com">McFarland</a> at 1-800-253-2187.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-56779613704764720992012-04-12T12:22:00.001-04:002012-04-12T12:24:18.245-04:00Giveaway UpdateThe trivia contest for the DVD Giveaway is on twitter. Also, I have 3 copies of the Highlight Film (including Game 5 from the NLDS) to be given away.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-42882597538823004952012-04-03T19:05:00.004-04:002012-04-17T19:00:18.958-04:00More DVD giveawaysIt looks as though I'll be doing another DVD giveaway. This time, though, one giveaway is a BluRay/DVD combo pack of Game 6 of the 2011 World Series. The DVD is a part of the <i>Baseball's Greatest Games</i> set. Let's be honest here--it's one of the best games ever.<blockquote>The St. Louis Cardinals thrilled Cardinal Nation with a game full of heart-stopping comebacks, including a spectacular 11th inning walk-off home run. Hometown hero and budding star David Freese smashed the solo shot in the final inning that provided a fitting finale to a spectacular Fall Classic matchup.<br /><br />In Game 6 of the 2011 World Series, on the edge of elimination, the Cardinals trailed five times and were twice down to their last strike. But Freese, Lance Berkman and a resilient lineup evened the score each time until Freese delivered the second of his incredible moments--the wondrous walk-off homer. All of the drama, thrills, exhilaration and jubilation of this Fall Classic masterpiece are here to enjoy for the first time in pristine HD with the roar of the crowd in 5.1 surround sound.<br /><br />Direct from the archives of Major League Baseball, this extraordinary television broadcast includes the quintessential making of an iconic moment, and one unforgettable baseball game available for the first time on Blu-Ray!<br /><br /><a href="http://shop.mlb.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12643416&cp=1452371.2366583">WORLD SERIES GAME 6</a>, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011, BUSCH STADIhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifUM<br /><br />A special audio feature allows fans to watch the television broadcast and listen to the radio play-by-play in English or Spanish!</blockquote>The second giveaway is a chance to receive the full <i>ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 2011 WORLD SERIES COLLECTOR'S EDITION DVD SET<a href="http://shop.mlb.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12179276&cp=2366583.2498437"></a></i>.<blockquote>History unfolded before our eyes and every clutch pitch, game-winning hit, and record-setting moment is digitally preserved in THE ST. LOUIS CARDINALS 2011 WORLD SERIES COLLECTOR’S EDITION DVD. Featuring every game of this remarkable Fall Classic–including Game 6 which instantly became one of the greatest postseason games ever played–this eight-DVD set celebrates the Cardinals unforgettable, exhilarating, dramatic, and uplifting comebacks and victories. Each World Series game is now on DVD and wrapped with stats, player facts, and historic notes.<br /><br />This eight-DVD collection displays the fortitude of the Red Birds under manager Tony LaRussa and the heroics of David Freese, Albert Pujols, Lance Berkman, Allen Craig, Yadier Molina, and Chris Carpenter along with every glorious Cardinals moment.<br /><br />A special DVD audio feature allows fans to watch the World Series television broadcast and listen to Cardinals Radio Network announcers!<br /><br />BONUS FEATURES<br /><br />Walk-Off Winners; Milestones; Cardinals clinch NL Wild Card: Last Out and Celebration; NLDS Highlights, Last Out, and Celebration; NLCS Highlights, Last Out, and Celebration; NLCS Trophy Presentations; World Series Last Out, Celebration and Trophy Presentation; St. Louis Victory Parade; Multiple Audio Tracks Featuring World Series Announcers: Joe Buck, Tim McCarver, Ken Rosenthal (Fox Sports), John Rooney, Mike Shannon (Cardinals Radio Network), Eric Nadel, Steve Busby, Bryan Dolgin (Rangers Radio Network), Ernesto Jerez, Guillermo Celis (ESPN Deportes Radio)</blockquote>Keep an eye on <a href="http://twitter.com/dsolzman">my twitter account</a> for more!<br /><br />Special thanks to A+E Networks Home Entertainment/MLB Productions for sponsoring this wonderful promotion.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-26764441882063344622012-04-03T18:45:00.004-04:002012-04-03T19:04:10.781-04:002012 MLB Preseason PredictionsIn keeping with a longtime tradition, I'm posting these picks here and at <a href="http://kydem.blogspot.com/2012/04/2012-mlb-preseason-predictions.html">The Kentucky Democrat</a>. Bud Selig, though, has made it even harder with the addition of another Wild Card team, and thus allowing for a one-day play-in game. What's next, a First Four?<br /><br /><b>NATIONAL LEAGUE</b><br />East: Philadelphia Phillies<br />Central: Cincinnati Reds<br />West: San Francisco Giants<br />Wild Card 1: Los Angeles Dodgers<br />Wild Card 2: St. Louis Cardinals<br /><br />Battle of the Wild Cards: St. Louis over Los Angeles<br />NLDS: Philadelphia over Cincinnati, St. Louis over San Francisco<br />NLCS: Philadelphia over St. Louis<br /><br /><b>AMERICAN LEAGUE</B><br />East: New York Yankees<br />Central: Detroit Tigers<br />West: Los Angeles Angels<br />Wild Card 1: Tampa Bay Rays<br />Wild Card 2: Texas Rangers<br /><br />Battle of the Wild Cards: Tampa Bay over Texas<br />ALDS: New York over Los Angeles, Detroit over Tampa Bay<br />ALCS: New York over Detroit<br /><br /><b>WORLD SERIES</b><br />New York Yankees over Philadelphia Phillies, 4-1<br /><br /><b>POSTSEASON AWARDS</b><br /><b>National League</b><br />ROY: Bryce Harper, Washington Nationals<br />MVP: Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds<br />Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Philadelphia Phillies<br /><br /><b>American League</b><br />ROY: Matt Moore, Tampa Bay Rays<br />MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers<br />Cy Young: Jered Weaver, Los Angeles AngelsDanielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-49023988423190952782012-03-12T21:09:00.002-04:002012-03-12T21:12:18.809-04:00Jane Leavy to appear near JupiterAuthor Jane Leavy will be appearing near Jupiter, Florida.<br /><br />Here's information I recieved via email:<blockquote>I thought the readers of your blog would be interested in meeting Jane Leavy, who has written extensively on baseball and spring training. She will be speaking next week in Stuart, which is just north of Roger Dean Stadium, where the Cardinals are training.<br /><br />Leavy is an award-winning sportswriter who last year published "The Last Boy: Mickey Mantle and the End of America's Childhood." She also wrote a biography of Sandy Koufax, "A Lefty's Legacy." And she has a new book, an excerpt of which will appear in the March 26 issue of Sports Illustrated.<br /><br />Leavy has excellent stories about the Cardinals in the 1964 World Series. Read one of them <a href="http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/baseball/mlb/10/29/micky.mantle.book/index.html">here</a>.<br /><br />Leavy will be speaking at the Blake Museum in Stuart, Florida, on March 22 at 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. She will also answer questions and autograph books.</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-59866884977253005682012-02-23T13:26:00.002-05:002012-02-23T13:46:54.059-05:00UCB Roundtable: Cardinals CatchersWhile I'm mainly blogging over at <a href="http://www.redbirdrants.com">Redbird Rants</a> these days, here is the latest UCB Roundtable.<br /><br />Question: Yadier Molina has said he is open to talks during the season to discuss a contract extension. If the Cards and Molina cannot come to an agreement during the season, we may see repeat of this past offseason. Is there a catcher in the minor league system that you feel is ready for the show?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dailystatesman.com/blogs/coreynoles/">Corey Noles</a>: Good question. I wish I had a better answer. Tony Cruz will play some backup this year as will Koyie Hill who was signed in January. With that being said, none of those guys are the answer as far as I'm concerned and this is a question I think we need to pay serious attention to immediately. If Yadi goes to free agency, he's gone. Someone will pay him half again more than he's worth. In Sunday's interview he gave the impression that he didn't really care either way. Frankly, if we haven't signed him by late June, I would start shopping him so we get more out of him than a draft pick. Maybe I'm wrong and he'll stay, but my optimism on that subject is wearing quite thin. The local people here will be chasing me with pitchforks after today's paper is out and they see my column on this subject.<br /><br />To make a long answer short, I don't believe the next long-term catcher for the Cardinals is in the organization at this time. I think they will be looking outside because frankly it's the weakest position in our farm system at the moment.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.i70baseball.com/">Bill Ivie</a>: Pay very close attention to Bryan Anderson this Spring. Kid has a solid bat and is a much better defender than we have heard. He has worked closely with Matheny in the past and now has a better relationship with the guys he will need to be in good with.<br /><br />The team may not rush to judgement in this situation. There are currently 27 catchers poised to be free agents this coming off season. Yadi is certainly the jewel of that group, but there are some solid names out there (Napoli, McCann, Iannetta) that will have them at least kick the tires, I'm sure.<br /><br />The same as I felt last year, I feel something gets done and he stays. But we see how last year turned out.<br /><br /><a href="http://cardstiedforfirst.blogspot.com">Dathan Brooks</a>: Hard to imagine anyone closer to ready than Cruz, though, based on what I've seen so far, I wouldn't name him the heir apparent in the event of Yadi's departure. (You know, since I see so much Cardinals minor league ball, and am such an expert and all) I tend to agree, the Cardinals may have to look outside the organization to find a replacement catcher of Yadi's caliber. I suppose you could put a band-aid back there, someone of medium quality. Of course, doing so long-term may not bode well for handling young up & coming guys like Miller, Martinez at the front, Sanchez & others at the back.<br /><br />Short answer: No, I don't think anyone in the system is ready for the big show, should Yadi not return next year.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cardinal70.com/">Daniel Shoptaw</a>: Nobody is ready to step in right now, there's little doubt about that. Will that be the case next year, when we actually (in theory) need a replacement? That's a different story. Another year of development for either Tony Cruz or Bryan Anderson could indicate to us that they could step in and at least not be a drag on the team, even if they aren't necessarily a net positive.<br /><br />My gut feeling, though, is that the Cards use one of these draft picks they've stockpiled for the June draft to pick a catcher that might be a fast mover. So even if they have to go into the free agent market, they can limit their exposure to just a couple of years before Prospect C is available.<br /><a href="http://stlcardinalbaseball.com/"><br />Ray DeRousse</a>: I was calling for a trade of Molina last summer for a variety of reasons. Mainly, it's the fact that the Cardinals will never pay top dollar at catcher; the position is too physically demanding to risk huge payroll. If the Cards were unwilling to risk big money on Pujols at a relatively comfortable position, they certainly will not do so for a catcher.<br /><br />I've been whining about Bryan Anderson for two years now. He was in TLR's doghouse for whatever reason. Maybe he didn't genuflect when he first met TLR... I don't know. But I've wanted the kid to get a chance to be groomed by Molina before he left. Some of that opportunity has been lost due to TLR's idiocy.<br /><br />I'm perfectly comfortable with Anderson/Cruz. Hopefully we get somebody good in the Molina deal this summer ;-)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.redbirdrants.com">Christopher Carelli</a>: I do not think there is anyone in the system who would be ready to jump into the role next season. Cruz, Anderson, and Hill all project to be backups. I agree with Corey in that the Cardinals have paid little attention to the catcher position in their system. If Molina leaves, the Cards would have to look to the free agent market, or try to swing a trade.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rallybirds.com/">Tyler</a>: There's no doubt we're really in a tight spot when it comes to the Catcher position. There is no one in the system below Yadier capable of handling a full-time role as this team's backstop, no one. Cruz and Anderson are both at their ceiling as backups and there is simply nothing behind them.<br /><br />Yadier is going to command a ton of money at a point when his career should be hitting its downward slope. If recent history tells us much, the Cardinals front office was willing to let the biggest fish of all swim away because of too great a command at the wrong point in his career. But how much of that was due to both the short term and potential long term replacements for that player in Lance Berkman, Allen Craig, and Matt Adams? For which there are none at the 2 spot on the field.<br /><a href="http://ontheoutsidecorner.wordpress.com/"><br />Bob Netherton</a>: Absolutely, and it is Tony Cruz. And it is why I think he will go back to Memphis to play as the every day catcher instead of making the big club out of spring training. He has always been in a pretty even platoon, which limits him to 75-80 games, leaving questions of whether or not he can bear the load of every day work. That is the only knock on Cruz, so I'm curious why there is some negativity with regard to catchers in the system. It is not fair to compare Cruz to Molina of 2012, just like it is not fair to compare Matt Adams (1B) to Prince Fielder of today, but if you look at where the two are at this point in their careers versus those two players at that same point, you get a very favorable outlook.<br /><br />Defensively, Tony Cruz is the real deal. Offensively, he's not an empty bat. Can he call a major league game, who knows ? But with Mike Matheny at the helm, and Derrek Lilliquist by his side, he will learn, and quickly.<br /><br />Also, don't count Bryan Anderson out. I don't think he will be a Yadier Molina, but he might be a very good backstop, trading some offense for a drop in the Hall of Fame caliber defense. The kid has done everything the organization has asked him to do, and he worked hard on his offense last year - and it showed.<br /><br />I also like Charlie Cutler a lot. He was taken by the Pirates in the Rule 5 draft, but I can't see him on their major league roster for the entire year. Like Brian Broderick last year, he should return.<br /><br />Steven Hill is beginning to look like he has a big league bat.<br /><br />I do believe that the Cardinals will try very hard to extend Molina for another 3 to 4 years. When we get to early July, if the Cardinals are out of it and Molina remains unsigned, expect him to be traded. I am not expecting either of those to happen, but if they do .....<br /><br /><a href="http://retrosimba.com/">Mark Tomasik</a>: There’s no obvious replacement, but the Cardinals have the right manager in Mike Matheny to identify a capable replacement through acquisition.<br /><br /><a href="http://cheapseatsplease.wordpress.com/">Mark Whitener</a>: Great question, and I think it leads to a clear conclusion in the end: Yadier Molina is, and was, the most irreplaceable player on the Cardinals.<br /><br />Bryan Anderson for years seemed like he was destined to be the answer, and so much so, that he would have to be moved due to being blocked by Yadi. However, it doesn't seem like that's the case anymore. Of course he needs more at-bats and opportunity to make a difference, but if he was such an undeniable Major League talent (like Yadi was when he sat behind, and ultimately moved out of town, his current manager), he wouldn't have sat in the minors behind two years of Jason LaRue & a year of Gerald Laird.<br /><br />Cruz seems to have a solid bat and is the type that can be worked into a lineup as needed, but his future seems to be as more of a Brandon Inge type, that mans the corner infield & rotates at catcher as well. Not an everyday guy.<br /><br />Yadi is currently irreplaceable based on what we have behind him, and unlike with Albert, if he books town we will be gross unprepared to fill in his void. Hopefully however, this isn't a dilemma we have to approach for another 5 years or so, and in that time as was already mentioned, we will have a chance to draft and groom at least 2 possible replacements.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stlfearthered.com/">J.E. Powell</a>: Like most of my fellow bloggers have pointed out, Bryan Anderson and Tony Cruz seem the likeliest choices, though, I am not completely sold on either one yet. If Molina ends up leaving, in my opinion, the Cards would probably go get a veteran catcher and have a platoon of catchers, Anderson/Cruz/veteran, behind the plate in 2013. At least until they can find a full time replacement from the farm system (which, of course, could include Anderson or Cruz) or can find one via free agency for a 2-3 year contract.<br /><br />If Molina does not end up being traded during the season I can see a, albeit it a toned down, version of Pujols this past offseason. I think Anderson and Cruz are good enough to be, at the very least, a stopgap measure until a full time replacement emerges.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.birdsonthebat82.com/">Chris Mallonee</a>: Catcher is in my opinion the hardest position to predict major league value at. It's very hard to project Minor League numbers into major league equivalents. How well do you measure a guys ability to manage a big-league staff and earn the pitchers trust? How do you measure their ability to direct traffic in the field in any number of situations, calm down a flustered pitcher, etc. I think you guys get where I'm going...<br /><br />In addition to all that, they have to be able to provide enough value at the plate to stay in the lineup. This is a position where I have to trust the coaches more than others in terms of who they give a shot in the majors.<br /><br />If Anderson, Cruz, and Hill earn a shot in the coaches opinion to get some major league playing time, I'm good with it. If they don't perform, the organization has a TON of flexibility to go out and get somebody.<br /><br /><a href="http://cardinalsgm.com/">Tom Knuppel</a>: It doesn't appear we have any catchers in the system that can be a regular that would make most happy. I suspect the draft picks will go along way to solve that issue.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cardsnstuff.wordpress.com/">Kevin Reynolds</a>: FYI - I usually try to answer the question without reading everyone else's responses to answer honestly, so I apologize if I "steal your answer" :)<br /> <br />I think the Yadier situation is drastically different than the Pujols situation for three primary reasons: 1) Pujols and his money-eating contract is not here. That frees up a ton of money to sign someone. 2) Catchers just don't make as much as sluggers...even catchers as uniquely gifted as Yadi. 3) Berkman was a clear and planned back-up plan to Albert...he was in place and ready to go if Pujols left...there is no such back-up plan for Yadi. If Yadi leaves, the drop-off in production, etc. is going to be significantly noticeable.<br /> <br />All that being said...I believe one of the reasons talks have halted between the club and Molina is simply because they were negotiating without knowing what they have in Anderson and/or Cruz. No one really knows if either catcher can become a regular starter at the MLB level, yet. This spring is likely going to be used to find the answer to that question. It could clarify the Cardinals' negotiating position with Molina.<br /> <br />Also, I believe one similarity between Yadi and Albert is that the Cardinals would be willing to pay them both more than they would another free agent at the same position. Albert meant something special to Cardinal Nation and organization in a lot of ways. To a lesser degree, Yadi is in a similar position. The Cardinals, I believe, will be willing to pay Yadi more money than they would a free agent catcher to replace him. If Yadi signs elsewhere, I believe their preference would be to plug a Cruz/Anderson pairing into the lineup and spend the money saved elsewhere.<br /> <br />To directly answer the question...No. For my money, the Cardinals have to re-sign Molina. I did not necessarily believe that until Albert left. Now, the Cardinals face losing two modern-day icons, fan favorites, and Core players to this club two offseasons in a row. <br /> <br />To me, that just can't happen.<br /> <br />I don't believe Anderson or Cruz have the skills to replace Molina directly, but we may learn that one of them can do enough to allow the Cardinals to improve at another position and balance out the loss. But given what Molina does behind the plate, to the running game, for the pitchers, as a leader, and now as an offensive piece...I just don't see him being as "easy" to replace as losing an aging slugger on the decline.<br /> <br />So...the answer is "No"...at this time...but we could see enough from Cruz/Anderson to convince the Cardinals the answer to that question might be "Yes" after one more season of work.<br /><br /><a href="http://saintlouissports.com/">Rodney Knuppel</a>: Tony Cruz is the next best option, but I'm not sure he is MLB caliber. I'd like to look at possibly trading Molina to be honest.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pitchershiteighth.com/">Nick</a>: I think the answer depends on your definition of “ready”. I think Cruz could be a passable catcher just based on his defense, and the Cardinals’ propensity to emphasize catcher defense. I’m still not sure what they have with Bryan Anderson – he seems very Tyler Greene-ish to me. Everyone chalks up his falling off of prospect lists, etc to La Russa, but the fact is that he just hasn’t performed. Until he can do that, he’s not going to be handed anything, whether TLR is around or not. <br /><br />The free agent market for 2013 appears to be strong right now, and as previously mentioned, there may be an opportunity to spread the wealth a bit as they did with the “Pujols Dividend” – take the money earmarked for Molina and get a good defensive replacement at catcher and an upgrade at say, second base, in order to replace the production from both positions by upgrading at second.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-39835970136812140862011-12-12T17:42:00.003-05:002011-12-12T17:44:01.569-05:00Breaking news!I've accepted an opportunity to join <a href="http://www.redbirdrants.com">Redbird Rants</a> as a staff writer. I would wager to say that a lot of my Cardinals-related writing will be done over there from here on out. Other baseball stuff will be posted here.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-48036318069680476382011-12-11T09:20:00.002-05:002011-12-11T09:26:50.930-05:00Pujols introducedI know, I know. I don't get it either. If he's trying to win the PR war, <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/pujols-it-was-about-the-commitment/article_e73b3daa-688c-58f0-b068-a06f0f4547e7.html">he's not selling it correctly</a>. Just read this line right here.<blockquote>"I know people back in the city of St. Louis think it's all about the money and are upset about that," Pujols said. "I have all the offers out there for a lot of money. They're calling me 'liar' and all that stuff. That's all good. I went through that when I made the decision. It was tough. I know what they're going through. They're losing somebody that has been part of the community. And I feel for that. My wife and I felt that pain, too."</blockquote>Pujols says he wept after the Cards initially offered 5 years. To be honest, a five year deal is not so bad when you factor in age and injuries. When a ballplayer is between 25-32, they are usually in their prime. Albert is going to be turning 32 before the end of 2012 and we saw this year that his numbers fell off his career averages. Was that because of the pressure on him in a walk year? I don't know. I just don't know.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-60048420553221081762011-12-10T20:11:00.002-05:002011-12-10T20:22:35.535-05:00Other Cardinals news...It appears that Rafael Furcal will be a Cardinal for <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/cardinal-beat/cards-agree-to-terms-with-shortstop-furcal/article_a9984512-236a-11e1-ae9e-001a4bcf6878.html">at least two more seasons</a>.<blockquote>The Cardinals will finalize a two-year, $14-million deal with shortstop Rafael Furcal early next week.<br /><br />The deal has been agreed upon pending a physical, the shortstop's agent Paul Kinze confirmed to The Post-Dispatch on Saturday afternoon.<br /><br />Furcal, 34, returns to the team that acquired him at the July non-waiver trade deadline last season. Furcal solidified the team's defense with his play at shortstop, and he took over the leadoff role until struggling at the plate in the World Series. Furcal hit .255 with a .316 on-base percetnage and a .418 slugging percentage in 50 games with the Cardinals in 2011. He added seven homers and 29 runs scored as the team's everyday shortstop.</blockquote>Defensively, resigning Furcal for two years is a great move. Offensively, he needs to work on getting on base once more.<br /><br />Asking who the <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/columns/round-two/who-s-the-new-face-of-the-cardinals-franchise/article_ba276c08-2295-11e1-9a1d-0019bb30f31a.html">face of the franchise</a> is with Albert now an Angel is a really good question. My vote goes to Chris Carpenter or Adam Wainwright.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/cards-feel-sense-of-loss-stir-of-new-challenge/article_1c761203-d175-50d0-92bd-951a54f4faf2.html">Derrick</a> got the quotes that BJ was unable to provide the other day.<blockquote>"I wouldn't say that I was shocked. I was sad," Holliday said. "But the cupboard isn't bare...It is going to be very different. But it's exciting. We've lost a Hall of Fame manager and one of the greatest players of all time in the same offseason, and a lot of organizations would be sent reeling by that. We're in pretty good shape. We have a team that can win."[...]<br /><br />Pujols took him through some of the things that happened on the way to his decision, and the two decided to try and get together before Pujols leaves St. Louis. Holliday kept a pulse on the Cardinals' pursuit of Pujols and said he remained "hopeful" through this week. Now he looks ahead to possibly being the team's first new No. 3 hitter in years and definitely being the focal point of the offense.<br /><br />"We've got a big hole to fill," Holliday said. "That's going to take all of us to fill it. I think it feels different. It obviously feels that way now. It will be even more glaring when we get to spring training and look around and Tony's not there and Albert's not there. It's a new look. It's a new era in Cardinals baseball."</blockquote>Bernie gets a <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/columns/bernie-miklasz/bernie-cardinals-have-a-debt-to-fans/article_622355fd-ad1c-5d56-89f2-f3aa101d1fac.html">quote</a> from Bob Costas on Pujols' decision.<blockquote>So what does the always fair-minded Bob Costas think about the Cardinals' offer to Pujols and our town's reaction to the defection? Costas offered his take Friday on the MLB Network. After explaining why the Angels and their owner Arte Moreno were in great financial position to take on the enormous Pujols contract, Costas said:<br /><br />"The Cardinals made more than a fair offer, and they went about as far as their economics would allow. All of those things might have made sense for Arte Moreno to go to a number that the Cardinals couldn't reach. But the Cardinals certainly put out a fair number, which is why you won't find in St. Louis a lot of anger directed at the Cardinals. They're not saying the Cardinals screwed up. Their reaction is disappointment, sadness. And if there's any resentment at all, at least at this point it's directed at Albert Pujols. They believe their devotion to him, and their appreciation of him, in the end, was not reciprocated."</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-11634240230350777542011-12-10T19:59:00.004-05:002011-12-30T09:37:45.944-05:00Stan The Man: Book ReviewI'm just over halfway through <span style="font-style:italic;">Stan The Man</span> by Wayne Stewart. Published in 2010 by Triumph Books, this book is one of a few released recently about the Cardinal great.<br /><br />It's a good read. At times, I feel as if Stewart is giving us too much information about Jackie Robinson or Branch Rickey.<br /><br />The first chapter deals with his childhood in Donora, PA. Some anecdotes relate to Ken Griffey, Jr. as Musial played with Sr.'s father, Buddy in high school.<br /><br />The next few chapters, we learn just how he became The Man, why he treats his fans the way that he does, etc.<br /><br />Stewart not only interviews family and friends but he does his research with quoting former ballplayers that wrote books.<br /><br />Rick Ankiel was not the first Cardinal to be converted from pitcher to hitter. Stan started out as a pitcher but he was a good hitter at the time. An injury to his throwing shoulder and next thing you know, he's asked to play in the outfield. We know what happens next.<br /><br />The book covers the great decade of the 1940s for the Cardinals, a decade that took the Cards to 4 World Series, winning 3 of them. Stewart discusses how Stan was robbed of a triple crown.<br /><br />After finishing the book, I can say that it's definitely more of a linear biography moreso than anything else. Wayne Stewart talks with friends and family of Stan and most of Stan's quotes in the book, I feel as if they came elsewhere from press in the media rather than The Man himself. I'm not saying that's a bad thing. But we do find out interesting things though. During the memorabilia craze of the early 90s, Stan the Man, Inc. was formed and even though the goal was to SELL memorabilia, Musial had no problem with giving away autographs for free. I should know...I'm the owner of one of those free autographs.<br /><br />It's a fast read, too. When one works and has to find time to read, you shouldn't have a problem. It's not like some other books that take forever to read because we're reading about one of the greatest guys of all time to play the game.<br /><br />Stewart does go into detail on why he's not beloved nationally as say a guy like Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, or even Ted Williams.<br /><br />It's highly recommended.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-48635374869494931272011-12-10T19:56:00.000-05:002011-12-10T19:57:21.050-05:00Ryan Braun tests positiveWhile I am very disgusted with the fact that Kentucky blew an opportunity to foul in the final seconds against Indiana, let's turn our attention to Ryan Braun.<br /><br />ESPN is reporting tonight that 2011 National League MVP <a href="http://espn.go.com/espn/otl/story/_/id/7338271/ryan-braun-milwaukee-brewers-tests-positive-performance-enhancing-drug">Ryan Braun</a> has tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs. The report from ESPN states as follows:<blockquote>National League MVP Ryan Braun, who last season led the Milwaukee Brewers to their first division title in nearly three decades, has tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug and faces a 50-game suspension if the initial finding is upheld, two sources familiar with the case told "Outside the Lines."<br /><br />Major League Baseball has not announced the positive test because Braun is disputing the result through arbitration.<br /><br />A spokesman for Braun issued a statement Saturday: "There are highly unusual circumstances surrounding this case which will support Ryan's complete innocence and demonstrate there was absolutely no intentional violation of the program. While Ryan has impeccable character and no previous history, unfortunately, because of the process we have to maintain confidentiality and are not able to discuss it any further, but we are confident he will ultimately be exonerated."[...]<br /><br />To affirm the results and strengthen its case, MLB asked the World Anti-Doping Agency lab in Montreal, which conducts its testing, to perform a secondary test to determine whether the testosterone spike resulted from natural variations within Braun's body or from an artificial source. The test indicated the testosterone was exogenous, meaning it came from outside his body.</blockquote>There's more in the article but this is a huge blow to the Milwaukee Brewers as they possibly lose star first baseman Prince Fielder to free agency.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-35310810720470210402011-12-09T16:25:00.003-05:002011-12-09T16:26:45.966-05:00DeWitt talks Pujols<a href="http://www.insidestl.com/insideSTLcom/McKernan/tabid/61/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/7923/Transcript-of-Bill-DeWitt-III-On-The-ITD-Morning-After.aspx">Bill DeWitt</a> spoke earlier this morning on the subject of honoring Albert Pujols. This is from the transcript from ITD Morning after.<blockquote>Doug: Speaking of the Pujols legacy, you suppose the club will do anything to honor him, will someone else be wearing number 5 this year. Have you had any time to think about that kind of thing?<br /><br />DeWitt: I can’t imagine we would do that. That would be pretty good if you were really pissed about it. That’s not how it happened. I think we’d hold off on things like that. As far as honors in the future, I don’t rule anything out, you never know in this game what is going to transpire. You try not to burn bridges, I’m sure we’ve burned a few, but you never approach any negotiation with that as the end game, if you don’t end up with the player. We owe Albert, the memories aren’t going away, he’s been great for the Cardinals and the St. Louis community. At some point there will be an opportunity to honor that legacy, right this second it doesn’t come to mind how we’re going to do that.</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-25983391810549974722011-12-09T15:40:00.003-05:002011-12-09T15:45:11.321-05:00Carlos Beltran and the Cardinals?There's just something about former Houston Astros players and the St. Louis Cardinals. There's currently talk that the St. Louis Cardinals are pursuing Carlos Beltran, which makes you wonder what's going to happen with Allen Craig's future.<br /><br />Craig will be recovering at the start of the season from off-season knee surgery.<br /><br />Jim Bowden <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/JimBowdenESPNxm/status/145238675377233921">tweeted</a>:<blockquote>Cardinals express interest in Carlos Beltran, Jimmy Rollins (will end up w/Phils) &Rafael Furcal as they begin to work on life after Pujols</blockquote>I think Rollins will ultimately stay with the Phillies.<br /><br />Jon Morosi has also <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/jonmorosi/status/145241025441562624">tweeted</a> with regards to Beltran and the Cardinals:<blockquote>Carlos Beltran fits the #STLCards in so many ways. Jimmy Rollins does, too. The irony: They have the same agent as Albert Pujols.</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-33306647271210753872011-12-09T10:11:00.002-05:002011-12-09T10:12:15.591-05:00A Letter from Albert PujolsThe Pujols family took out a full-page ad in this morning's St. Louis Post-Dispatch. It reads as follows:<blockquote>To the City of St. Louis and Cardinal Nation,<br /><br />I want to thank each and every one of you sincerely from the bottom of my heart for the love and support you have me and my family for the past 11 years. In my time with the Cardinals, I have been fortunate enough to play on championship teams, and in front of championship fans. This community has reached out and embraced me, and for that I am truly humbled and grateful.<br /><br />My decision to leave has been incredibly difficult, and your support is the biggest reason why. While I am excited about this new chapter in my life, it was very important to me to let you know that St. Louis has been, and will always remain, in my heart. I have been honored to be able to wear the Cardinal uniform the last 11 seasons, and I want to thank the entire Cardinal organization, my teammates, coaches, managers and staff for everything they have given to me as well.<br /><br />We call St. Louis home and my family and I are so blessed to have made lifelong relationships in St. Louis that we look forward to continuing for many years to come, and words cannot fully express our gratitude to you all.<br /><br />Thank you and God bless,<br />Albert and Deidre</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-87844934375968325932011-12-08T22:28:00.003-05:002011-12-08T22:48:48.996-05:00More reactions...BJ Rains has reactions from <a href="http://www.foxsportsmidwest.com/12/08/11/Teammates-sad-to-see-Pujols-leave-/landing_stlcardinals.html">some of the players</a>. Here is how Skip Schumaker felt:<blockquote>"I was shocked," Schumaker told FOXSportsMidwest.com. "I'm used to seeing No. 5 hit in the three-hole for the Cardinals. That's what a lot of people are used to seeing. It's going to be weird seeing him in a different uniform. I think the only different uniform I've ever seen him in is an All-Star uniform. It's going to be different.<br /> <br />"I always assumed that he would come back to St. Louis just because of all that he's done for the community and the team and the organization. I just assumed he would come back. But that might have been wishful thinking."</blockquote>Meanwhile, you can read Rob Rains' article <a href="http://robrains.com/pujols%E2%80%99-move-to-angels-is-a-blow-to-the-gut-but-cardinal-nation-will-recover/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Robrainscom+%28RobRains.com%3A+The+StLSportsPage%29">here</a>.<br /><br />What really makes it a blow to the gut is this article here by Matt back in <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090215&content_id=3833606&vkey=news_stl&fext=.jsp&c_id=stl&partnerId=rss_stl">2009</a>.<blockquote>"Do I want to be in St. Louis forever? Of course," Pujols said. "Because that city has opened the door to me and my family like no other city is ever going to do. I don't want to [go to] any other city, but if that time comes I'm pretty sure wherever I go they are going to do the same way -- hopefully, open the doors. But I don't think it's to be anything compared to St. Louis.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">"People from other teams want to play in St. Louis and they're jealous that we're in St. Louis because the fans are unbelievable. So why would you want to leave a place like St. Louis to go somewhere else and make $3 or $4 more million a year? It's not about the money. I already got my money. It's about winning and that's it. It's about accomplishing my goal and my goal is to try to win. If this organization shifts the other way then I have to go the other way."</span><br /><br />In Pujols' eyes, the organization has not yet "shifted the other way." He expressed support for the franchise's course in recent years, while also emphasizing again that a new contract is not a big priority.<br /><br />"When that time comes, then we're going to figure it out," he said. "And I told you, I'm not going to lie to you, it's not about the money all the time. It's about being in a place to win and being in a position to win. If the Cardinals are willing to do that and put a team every year like they have, I'm going to try to work everything out to stay in this town. But if they're not on the same page of bringing championship caliber to play every year, then it's time for me to go somewhere else. Where? Somewhere else that I can win.<br /><br />"But we don't have to worry about that because I still have a couple of years. As long as they bring in talent and they keep drafting guys and doing moves here and there, then I don't have to worry about that. I'm happy with what I got. I play one year at a time and when that time comes we'll figure it out. But it's not always about how much money can I get. It's about winning. I've already told you guys. I've got 10 fingers and I've nine plain that I can fill up with World Series rings. I want to win."</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-68851386069375615082011-12-08T14:36:00.002-05:002011-12-08T14:44:58.227-05:00Commish on the newsRick Hummel had two very good articles on the news today.<br /><br />The first was <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/cardinal-beat/bob-gibson-on-pujols-he-should-have-been-a-cardinal/article_22848984-21c4-11e1-8b7c-0019bb30f31a.html">Bob Gibson and Whitey Herzog's reactions</a> to Pujols' leaving for Anaheim.<blockquote>Bob Gibson, the Cardinals' Hall-of-Fame pitcher, said today he would have liked to have seen Albert Pujols stay in St.Louis, but with the kind of money being offered, it's hard to turn down the kind of offer that the Angels made.<br /><br />"I hate to see him go, I really do. He should have been a Cardinal for life," Gibson said. "It's tough to turn that (kind of money) down."<br /><br />Will it be a hard day for St. Louis fans?<br /><br />"I would think it's got to be a hard day for Pujols, too. Aside from the fact that you're making a lot of more money, there's got to be a lot of emotional things there.<br /><br />"He's got a lot of ties in St. Louis -- his family, his friends, so many organizations ... "[...]<br /><br />Herzog said he was "worried" last spring when the Cardinals didn't re-sign Pujols. "That was big," said Herzog. "I thought at the time they should have come to a deal. Maybe say, ‘You'll be Cardinal for life and you'll get ‘x' amont of dollars till you're 65 years old.'<br /><br />"But still I thought a deal might be worked out. I thought he could come back because of his ties to St. Louis and that it's a great place to play.<br /><br />"What it boils down to again is that money talks.<br /><br />"I don't blame the Cardinals. They made a helluva offer although I don't know how they would have structured it.<br /><br />"I'm sure a lot of people in St. Louis are up in arms and calling the Cardinals cheapstakes. I don't think that's true. I think they negotiated a very fair contract."<br /><br />But, said Herzog, "You can't deny what Albert did. He had a gimpy leg and a bad elbow and played every day. He was the Cardinals."</blockquote>The second article was showing where Pujols <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/musial-secure-as-greatest-cardinal/article_8fd51f5a-21bd-11e1-8903-001a4bcf6878.html">stands in St. Louis</a> compared to Stan "The Man" Musial.<blockquote>If Pujols' next 10 years would have been anything like his first 11, the Cardinals' first baseman legitimately could have challenged, at least statistically, the revered Musial as the Greatest Cardinal of Them All."<br /><br />Now, with Pujols fleeing to the Los Angeles Angels, Musial, as he has had for the last 50 or 60 years, will hold that title in undisputed fashion -- for our lifetimes and those of many others.<br /><br />Pujols would have had to step it up a bit to catch Musial for career batting average as a Cardinal. He finished three points behind at .328 and 1,557 hits behind at 3,630-2,073.<br /><br />Home runs would have been no contest. Musial wound up his 22-season career with 475 homers as a Cardinal. Pujols already has 445 on his way probably to 700 or more.<br /><br />Runs batted in, the third part of a hitter's trifecta, also would have fallen to Pujols. Musial ended with 1,949. Pujols already has 1,329 and would have had to average only 70 or so RBIs a year to pass Musial there.</blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-53473121306627425602011-12-08T13:15:00.000-05:002011-12-08T13:16:19.333-05:00Cards statements on PujolsCardinals Chairman and CEO Bill DeWitt, Jr.:<br />“We are disappointed that we were unable to reach an agreement to keep Albert Pujols in St. Louis. Albert is a great champion and we will always be thankful for his many achievements in a Cardinals uniform, as well as his contributions to the St. Louis community. I have the highest regard for Albert both personally and professionally, and appreciate his direct involvement in this process. I would like our fans to know that we tried our best to make Albert a lifetime Cardinal but unfortunately we were unable to make it happen.”<br /><br />Cardinals Sr. Vice President & General Manager John Mozeliak:<br />“Albert has been a special player in this organization since the moment he was drafted over 12 years ago. His accomplishments on and off the field have been spectacular. I wish him well in the next phase of his career.”Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-41738337008470686842011-12-08T10:41:00.002-05:002011-12-08T10:54:23.085-05:00Pujols leaves Cards, goes HollywoodAlbert Pujols has decided to leave the greatest baseball city in the world to head west to Los Angeles, where he will play for the Angels.<br /><br />Reports are that it is a 10 year deal for $250 million. I'm also <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/TBrownYahoo/status/144802506667593730">hearing reports</a> that there is no opt-out contained in the contract.<br /><br />It cements the fact that Stan Musial remains the greatest Cardinal of all time. If there is one thing that fans appreciate the most, it's the guys that put their heart and soul into the organization and don't care about how high their salary is.<br /><br />Mark McGwire fell in love with the city and the fans--he gave the club a hometown discount.<br /><br />Ten years at a quarter-billion dollars, honestly, is too much to pay especially when you look at the age factor and injury factor.<br /><br />Could St. Louis still be a contender for the playoffs next season? It's hard to say. We're losing a lot of offensive production in Albert Pujols' departure for Hollywood.<br /><br />Albert Pujols is one of the once-in-a-generation players and will surely be a lock for the Hall of Fame but I don't place him in the same category as Lebron James but this is one of those that will take some time to really digest.<br /><br />Curt Schilling says Pujols would do better in St. Louis than Hollywood.<br /><br />The legacy factor is where one must really think about things. Pujols could have been the greatest Cardinal of all time but as of now, he is in second place to many of Stan's numbers.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-58802854007033237432011-12-08T09:31:00.001-05:002011-12-08T09:31:43.652-05:002012 BBWAA Hall of Fame BallotThe candidates on the ballot this winter for induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame next summer include:<br />Jeff Bagwell<br />Jeromy Burnitz<br />Vinny Castilla<br />Juan Gonzalez<br />Brian Jordan<br />Barry Larkin<br />Javy Lopez<br />Edgar Martinez<br />Don Mattingly<br />Fred McGriff<br />Mark McGwire<br />Jack Morris<br />Bill Mueller<br />Terry Mulholland<br />Dale Murphy<br />Phil Nevin<br />Rafael Palmeiro<br />Brad Radke<br />Tim Raines<br />Tim Salmon<br />Ruben Sierra<br />Lee Smith<br />Alan Trammell<br />Larry Walker<br />Bernie Williams<br />Tony Womack<br />Eric Young<br /><br />Of that list, those appearing on the first time are Williams, Mueller, Sierra, Castilla, Salmon, Lopez, Womack, Mulholland, Radke, Burnitz, Jordan, Young and Nevin.<br /><br />Returning candidates: Don Mattingly, Fred McGriff, Mark McGwire, Dale Murphy, Tim Raines, Alan Trammell, Edgar Martinez, and Lee Smith.<br /><br />At some point over the next few days or weeks, I'll look at their stats and tell you who I would vote for.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-37808136863040297742011-12-08T00:42:00.002-05:002011-12-08T00:45:04.488-05:00Jeff Luhnow set to take over Houston AstrosAccording to sources, Jeff Luhnow has been named as the new General Manager of the Houston Astros. This now makes two GMs in the NL Central that have come from the Cardinals organization.<br /><br />Someone tweeted the information, then went ahead to delete the tweet before making their account private. When dealing with social media, it's important to remember that actions have consequences. The tweet was made and the damage was done. We offer our congrats to Jeff Luhnow nonetheless.Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-29982648325716805312011-12-06T18:07:00.001-05:002011-12-06T18:08:33.992-05:00Mark BuehrleThe Cardinals are shopping either Kyle Lohse or Jake Westbrook to possibly make room for pitcher Mark Buehrle. I like the idea that this could very well happen. I've been wanting Buehrle to join the Cardinals for several years now. He's a hometown kid. The question is: What kind of hometown discount would he take?Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23057580.post-41435842598999775472011-12-05T17:32:00.001-05:002011-12-05T17:32:40.026-05:00Ron Santo inducted to HOFRon Santo has <a href="http://baseballhall.org/news/voting-news/meant-be">finally</a> got his due. Too late in my opinion as he is not alive to see it. I may be a die-hard St. Louis fan but I know HOF-caliber ballplayers when I see them.<blockquote>Santo was the lone candidate among a ballot of 10 men, whose greatest contributions were realized between 1947 and 1972, to receive the 12 votes necessary to earn 75 percent and election to the Hall of Fame by the Golden Era Committee. Santo received 15 votes from the 16-member electorate and will be enshrined into the Baseball Hall of Fame on July 22nd in Cooperstown.<br /><br />"The numbers of are there," said Committee member and Hall of Famer Billy Williams. "Everybody saw the numbers, the home runs, the Gold Gloves. And I think everyone looked at it with a different view saying, 'This guy should be in the Hall of Fame.'"<br /><br />Santo died on December 3, 2010, but his wife believes he is celebrating today.<br /><br />"I am sure he is smiling down on this day," she said. "I am a believer in what's meant to be. I believe he was meant to be in the Hall, unfortunately it couldn't be during his lifetime. But I think the message is to never give up. This was always his dream."<br /><br />Santo becomes the 12th major league third baseman to be elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame, the first elected at the position since Wade Boggs in 2005. Including three selections from the Negro leagues, there are now 15 third basemen in the Hall of Fame. In 15 major league seasons, Santo compiled a .277 lifetime batting average, with 2,254 hits in 2,243 games, while totaling 1,331 runs batted in and 365 doubles.[...]<br /><br />Santo played for 14 seasons with the Chicago Cubs and one with the Chicago White Sox and was a nine-time All-Star. He hit 342 career home runs and won five Rawlings Gold Glove Awards for his defense at third base. He was honored by the Cubs Walk of Fame, becoming a member of the inaugural Class of 1992 and was selected to the club's all-century team in 1999. He was also a Cubs broadcaster for 21 years.[...]<br /><br />"[During the voting process], some people brought out more than the numbers of Ron Santo," said Williams. "And talked about what he did for the community."</blockquote>Here's how the <a href="http://baseballhall.org/news/press-releases/ron-santo-elected-national-baseball-hall-fame-golden-era-committee">voting</a> went down:<blockquote><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Results of the Golden Era Ballot (12 votes needed for election): </strong></span>Ron Santo (15 votes, 93.75%); Jim Kaat (10 votes, 62.5%); Gil Hodges (9 votes, 56.25%); Minnie Minoso (9 votes, 56.25%); Tony Oliva (8 votes, 50%); Buzzie Bavasi, Ken Boyer, Charlie Finley, Allie Reynolds and Luis Tiant each received less than three votes.</p> <p>The 16-member Golden Era Committee was comprised of Hall of Fame members Hank Aaron, Pat Gillick, Al Kaline, Ralph Kiner, Tommy Lasorda, Juan Marichal, Brooks Robinson and Billy Williams; major league executives Paul Beeston (Blue Jays), Bill DeWitt (Cardinals), Roland Hemond (Diamondbacks), Gene Michael (Yankees) and Al Rosen (retired); and veteran media members Dick Kaegel, Jack O'Connell and Dave Van Dyck. Hall of Fame Chairman of the Board Jane Forbes Clark served as the non-voting chairman of the Golden Era Committee.</p></blockquote>Danielle Solzmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10273354313459326114noreply@blogger.com0