Bleacher Report - Articles by Derek Coffelt

Is Matt Holliday the Right Man for the St. Louis Cardinals?

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 20:29:59 -0400

It was supposed to happen last season for Cardinals manager Tony La Russa. Matt Holliday was slated to dawn the St. Louis red in 2008. Alas, things don't always work out according to plan.

Oh, what could have been.

That was the past, and now the present has come and delivered an early Christmas present for the St. Louis Cardinals—a 6'4" 235 pound package named Matt Holliday.

After having a miserable several months to open up the 2009 campaign for the Oakland Athletics, Holliday has now turned it up a notch in the summer months to significantly help his trade value.

Maybe it was because he changed leagues, but Holliday is glad he's back in the NL.

"I'm extremely excited to be back in the National League, to be back in a pennant race," said Holliday. "This is a great team, a great organization."

Currently batting .286 with 11 home runs and 54 RBI, he's certainly an offensive machine. His incredible 2007 season that dubbed ridiculous offensive numbers that included a .340 AVG, 36 home runs, and 137 RBI, only adds evidence to his slugging prowess.

Tony La Russa knows just how much this addition helps his club.

"It's a heck of a move for our club," said La Russa. "There are guys who are going to lose at-bats, but they're excited because he improves our club. We'll be tough to pitch to."

The Cardinals had to give up their young slugging third baseman Brett Wallace to acquire Holliday, as well as outfielder Shane Peterson and right-hander Clayton Mortensen.

As much as Holliday brings to the table, one has to wonder if St. Louis still made the right move in not trying to trade for pitching ace Roy Halladay.

I know what you're saying.

Halladay can only help the club once every five days, whereas Holliday can provide consistent protection for sluggers Albert Pujols and Ryan Ludwick.

However, Holliday has been known to go on offensive slumps for extended periods of time during the season. He had breakout seasons in 2006 and 2007, but had a disappointing 2008 campaign.

Blame it on switching leagues or just blame it on a down season, but the fact remains that he couldn't quite make the adjustment. Now he's in a new city and there sure is going to be pressure to perform behind the bat of reigning NL MVP Albert Pujols.

As much as the Blue Jays were asking for in return for Halladay, it was still going to take some of St. Louis' future in order to get the deal done.

In an era when reliable pitching is at a premium, Halladay is as sure of a bet that there is on the mound.

Sporting nearly 2,000 innings pitched, 1,400 strikeouts, 44 complete games, 12 shutouts, and an ERA under 3.50; he's a workhorse on the bump.

St. Louis' offense has been anemic to say the least at times during the last couple of years, but the odds are against a team trying to constantly slug it out against the rest of the league. Pitching is what really is needed in trying to compete for a world championship.

Don't get me wrong, it's not as if the Redbirds have a terrible pitching staff. However, with Todd Wellemeyer blowing up bigger than the Hindenburg and Kyle Lohse struggling to come back from his strained forearm, adding Halladay would relieve the pressure on the entire rotation.

If the starting rotation was solidified with Halladay, the sluggers in the lineup wouldn't have to feel like they have to win the game every night. The Cardinals have arguably the best hitter in the game in their lineup, as well.

Holliday adds significantly more offensive firepower, but it is not as if the Cardinals ONLY had Pujols to bring in the offense.

Ryan Ludwick has comparable numbers to Holliday with a .273 AVG, 16 home runs, and 61 RBI. He's really stabilized himself after a miserable comeback from the disabled list, but still has been consistent through the month of July with eight multi-hit games, five home runs, and 23 RBI.

The trade for Holliday is still great for the Cardinals, but only time will tell if he will produce in St. Louis. Giving up a huge prospect in Brett Wallace is obviously high risk, high reward, but the Cardinals needed to make a move.

However, did St. Louis make the right one in dealing for Holliday and not Halladay?

Quotes attributed to ESPN.com

Cardinals-Cubs: St. Louis' Gruesome Twosome Tramples Past Chicago

Derek Coffelt — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 11:03:45 -0400

The game had some bumps in the road, but every contest can't be dominated.

Once again, St. Louis looked towards its offensive leaders, Ryan Ludwick and Albert Pujols (the gruesome twosome), to push past their long time rivals on Friday afternoon.

The sluggers delievered. Going a combined 5-for-6 with six RBIs, the Cardinals defeated the Cubs 8-3 as the final scored was tallied.

The Redbirds jumped on Chicago's starter Rich Harden early to score the first run of the game after a lead-off double by Skip Schumaker. It was eventually followed up by a Ryan Ludwick sacrifice fly for his first RBI of the game.

Ludwick's struggles were as evident as ever since his return over a month ago from his hamstring injury. There were talks swirling his name with possible trade rumors with Oakland A's outfielder Matt Holliday.

He finished the day going a perfect 3-for-3 with four RBI and has recorded a hit in nine of his last 10 games coupled with 13 RBIs. Hopefully this recent offensive explosion will help in quieting those rumors.

To Ludwick, he knew what he had to do to get out of his slump.

"I had a four-week, five-week period after I came back from my hamstring injury that was brutal," said Ludwick. "I couldn't hit water if I fell out of a boat. But getting together with [hitting coach] Hal McRae, we've really just kind of simplified things. I'm not worrying about mechanics so much, just worried about going out there and putting together good at-bats."

With the Cardinals offense clicking on all cylinders and leading 3-0 in the third inning, Chris Carpenter seemed to be cruising along until he gave up singles to Rich Harden and Ryan Theriot.

Carpenter later admitted that his pitches just didn't have the bite and movement that he wanted and continued to get bogged down in jams. Fortunately, the only damage done was a three-run home run by red hot slugger Derrek Lee in the third inning.

The Cardinals ace was helped out of those jams by having several hard hit balls hit right towards his outfielders.

However, Carpenter knew that he didn't have his best stuff.

"My command of everything today wasn't as good as it's been, but it seemed like I was able to make some pitches when I had to," said Carpenter. "They hit a couple balls at guys. The one pitch that hurt me was the one to Lee, but besides that I was able to make some pitches when I had to make some pitches, and we scored enough runs to win."

With the score now tied, Ryan Ludwick knew he had to help out even more on the offensive side.

"We need more runs," said Ludwick. "That's all."

Fellow slugger Albert Pujols took it upon himself to take back the lead as he took advantage of the wind blowing out to the outfield and hit his 32nd round-tripper of the season.

During the sixth inning, Ludwick was part of a four-run offensive output that blew open the game. Adding a two-RBI single, the Cardinals managed to score all of those runs on just two hits.

Chicago slugger Alfonso Soriano misplayed a routine pop-fly from catcher Yadier Molina it what could only be described as something reminiscent from the movie Major League. He did manage to get a fielder's choice force out at second base but a run would score. Pitcher Aaron Heilman then would be charged with a wild pitch that would send Ludwick across the plate.

The hard hitting offense and heads up baserunning by the Cardinals was something reigning NL MVP Albert Pujols knew was something St. Louis' lineup was capable of.

"Our lineup is good from the leadoff guy on," said Pujols. "We know what kind of talent we have. Obviously we haven't clicked where we want to be like we were in April, but it's a long season."

Cardinals captain Tony La Russa also knew of the potential of his lineup.

"The deeper it is, the more chances you have," La Russa said of his lineup. "It seems like every inning you've got a chance."

The Cardinals now look to gain the upper hand as they compete in a double-header on Sunday that will feature the return of Kyle Lohse to the rotation.

As St. Louis continues to heal up, they're looking more like contenders.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Brewers: Joel Pineiro Orchestrates Masterpiece Over Division Rivals

Derek Coffelt — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:22:40 -0400

With the baseball world swirling over trade talks about possible suitors for Roy Halladay, Cardinals Nation savored a win over their division rivals, the Milwaukee Brewers, on Thursday to extended their lead in the NL Central.

Joel Pineiro's complete game gem was the highlight of the day, helping the Cardinals defeat the Brewers ,5-1.

Sporting a 3.39 ERA before the contest, Pineiro has nine losses to show for his efforts this season.

Obviously, the hitting has been suspect with Ryan Ludwick struggling in the weeks following his activation from the disabled list. Combined with Rick Ankiel's roller coaster of a power surge, it's a wonder that the rotation doesn't have more losses.

Pineiro has pitched some great games this year, but St. Louis' bats fell silent several times and cost the young right-hander at least three more wins, to my knowledge.

Nevertheless, despite some early inning offensive sputtering, the Cardinals came through for Pineiro in the late innings to give him the victory.

Ludwick was the biggest part of a five-run eighth inning, but Brendan Ryan started the rally with an RBI triple to tie the game. Reigning NL MVP Albert Pujols put the Cardinals up one with an RBI single, but Ludwick's three-run blast off Brewers' reliever Todd Coffey was the Cardinals' exclamation point of the inning.

The offense came late for the Redbirds, but Pineiro's mental toughness persevered.

"[It was] awesome," Pineiro said of getting the late runs. "You can't give up. In that eighth inning I was just thinking it was a 0-0 ballgame and I had to concentrate, keep making pitches and hopefully something would happen, and it did."

With fantastic outings from Adam Wainwright defeating Yovani Gallardo and Chris Carpenter pitching a gem against the Reds, it looks as if St. Louis might just be getting things back on track.

With Kyle Lohse scheduled to come back against the Chicago Cubs in a doubleheader, the rotation seems to be coming together.

Pineiro was excellent against the Brewers, giving up only three hits with no walks and pitching all nine innings with only 100 pitches. The only damage done to him was by a Mike Cameron RBI single in the fifth inning.

Extremely efficient to say the least.

Ludwick's three-run homer to give Pineiro breathing room was something the outfielder knew was important.

"I was just lucky that the one hit I had today was a big one," said Ludwick. "He definitely deserved good run support. He's been pitching well all year and not getting a whole not of runs, so to be able to do it—even though it was late—everyone was happy about that."

Ludwick, amongst the entire Cardinals starting lineup, was thankful to get a hit against Brewers' starter Manny Parra. He matched Pineiro pitch-for-pitch as he held St. Louis to just three hits through seven innings while striking out seven.

Alas, the Milwaukee bullpen let him down.

St. Louis' skipper tried his best to break through against the veteran journeyman.

"He was impressive," said Cardinals manager Tony La Russa. "We just tried to make him work, so it got to where he couldn't go any further and he was hurting. But he shut us down."

The Cardinals extended their lead to two games in the NL Central and Joel Pineiro improved his record to 7-9, lowering his ERA to 3.20.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Reds: St. Louis Takes Command with "Pocket Aces"

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 11:42:17 -0400

It's the best hand you could possibly start out with in Texas Hold 'Em: two aces.

The St. Louis Cardinals certainly have their "pocket aces" running on all cylinders as Albert Pujols provided the offense and Chris Carpenter provided the starting pitching to defeat the Cincinnati Reds 3-1 on Thursday night.

Carpenter had one of the best pitching performances of his 12-year career at Busch Stadium. Going the distance and allowing only one earned run on three hits combined with zero walks, it was a thing of beauty to witness.

The only mistake Carpenter made was a ball thrown to Reds' outfielder Laynce Nix that Nix promptly took out of the yard.

He reflected on that pitch, but knew how to put it into perspective.

"That ball that I threw to Nix was the worst one I threw all night," said Carpenter. "But that's OK. A win is a win, and that's what we're looking for. We're just trying to win ballgames, and we were able to do that. It's another nice game, but it's all about winning."

Carpenter's manager, Tony La Russa, thinks the pitcher could be back to his 2005 Cy Young Award-winning year.

"He's tied for first," said La Russa. "There's never been a better pitcher. I don't think anybody pitching today is better. He's right up there with [Roy] Halladay and the best ones out there. Carp's right there."

Needing only 95 pitches to obtain the complete victory, he was efficient to say the very least.

It was Carpenter's 26th complete game and his first since way back on Sept. 21, 2006. Coincidentally, that's the last year the Cardinals' ace was healthy.

Staying healthy was something one of his teammates knew was the key.

"I've been having fun the last seven years watching him do the same thing over and over again when he's healthy," said Pujols. "This was nothing new for me."

Providing the offense behind the 6'6" starter was the Redbirds' other ace, reigning NL MVP Pujols.

Destroying an Aaron Harang pitch in the third inning, Pujols blasted a two-run homer to give Carpenter all the offense he would need.

Pujols raised his average to just a shade under .350, and combined with 17 homers and 48 RBI, it looks like he's on his way to grabbing back-to-back trophies.

The slugger also was closing in on more history, as he has now reached base at least two times in each of the past 15 games. This streak was only surpassed by perhaps the biggest St. Louis Cardinal of them all, Stan Musial, with 16 straight.

Apparently, the return of outfielders Ryan Ludwick and Rick Ankiel have at least given Pujols pitches to hit.

It looks as if St. Louis' two aces could once again provide the Cardinals what they need to get back to the postseason and contend for yet another world title.

With this win and a Milwaukee Brewers' loss to the Florida Marlins, the Cardinals once again moved back into a tie for first place in the NL Central.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Cubs: Wainwright, Pujols "Lights Out" in Showdown Sweep

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 22 May 2009 10:12:53 -0400

Busch Stadium got a little darker yesterday, but in a good way.

St. Louis Cardinals team leaders Adam Wainwright and Albert Pujols had huge contributions in sweeping their rivals, the Chicago Cubs, 3-1 on Thursday.

Both were lights out in their respective positions in the contest, however, slugger Albert Pujols took it to a literal sense.

Perhaps it was another indication of how much of a team-player personality the reigning N.L. MVP exudes, but the solo home run he blasted in the first inning to knock out the "I" in the infamous "Big Mac Land" sign in left field was amazing.

They say there is no "I" in team, not to mention there isn't one functioning in the sign either. For Pujols, he truly takes those words to heart because of how much he wants his team to succeed.

The silver slugger knew just how important it is to hold true to the old adage: "Hit 'em hard, hit 'em early."

"It's cool to do things like that," Pujols said. "But you know what? You take a home run no matter what. To get right on top like that, a jump right out of the gate, and take the lead early, it's big. We knew that we took two games from these guys, and when you score first like that, it kind of takes you back where, 'Here we go again, they're scoring first.' So you want to jump right on them and not give those guys the opportunity to feel comfortable."

The man has hit so many solo home runs this year that I made reference to T-Rex Pennebaker, the brash slugger from the movie "Mr. 3000," in one of my more recent articles.

The rest of the Cardinals' offense was provided by the young rising star Colby Rasmus' RBI single in the third and then by Brian Barden's solo homer in the fourth inning.

The best compliment for Pujols' offensive exploits was the shutdown pitching from Cardinals starter Adam Wainwright. Pitching just one out short of a complete game, Wainwright was barely contested throughout the night.

Giving up only a single earned run on five hits coupled with seven strikeouts, it was a perfect compliment to Joel Pineiro's masterful outing just several nights before.

Wainwright knew that the Cubs offense could explode at any moment, but said he knew how to keep his team's momentum going to combat it.

"As a pitcher, if you're a good pitcher, you don't look at it like, 'Oh man, that other team is due,'" Wainwright said. "You look at it like, 'Man, our team is rolling. We're going to keep this going.' That's what separates the really good pitchers and the really good teams from the average pitchers and the average teams."

Combined with the triumphant return of Chris Carpenter, the Cardinals' starting rotation has allowed only two earned runs in 22 and two-third innings during this sweep of the Cubs.

According to STATS Inc., that's the fewest for the Cubs in a three-game series against the Cards since they had two in a series in 1988.

That's impressive to say the least.

The Cardinals have come back from being swept by the Milwaukee Brewers nearly a week ago to sweeping their biggest rival.

It seems as if the Redbirds are clicking on all cylinders.

With Carpenter back and still pitching at a high level, combined with Wainwright's confidence, it's a huge one-two punch against any team. If only the back end of the rotation could pick up the slack from shellings of Todd Wellemeyer and Kyle Lohse.

Despite the rough outings Wainwright had earlier in the year, the pitcher said he's still committed to battling through any obstacles that come about.

"My expectations were always there," Wainwright said. "But deep down, behind those expectations, earlier I knew I wasn't where I needed to be. So, yeah, I was hoping for the best when I was going out there, but now the expectations actually have a chance of being followed through."

"My first six starts, seven starts were just a battle from the first pitch on," he added. "And those kinds of things will strengthen you and will help you get better if you let it and don't get down on yourself. I knew if I just kept grinding and grinding and grinding, I would come up with something."

If values like these are being instituted throughout the locker room, the Cardinals will continue to battle for the N.L. Central crown.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Cubs: The Triumphant Return of Chris Carpenter

Derek Coffelt — Thu, 21 May 2009 09:14:17 -0400

It might have been just exactly what the St. Louis Cardinals needed to turn their season around. The return of their ace, Chris Carpenter.

With so many players on the disabled list, it was a welcome sight to see. Carpenter returned to his winning ways as he helped the Cardinals win a second straight game against the Chicago Cubs 2-1 on Wednesday night.

Carpenter didn't miss a beat as he struck out the very first batter he faced, Alfonso Soriano. He was dispatched with a 94-mph fastball, as Carpenter went on to pitch five scoreless innings, with two walks and four strikeouts.

Carpenter knew he had all of his pitches going and was in complete control.

"I was able to make some pitches when I had to when they had some runners in scoring position, but also I was out there getting ahead, and my curveball and cutter were good," said Carpenter.

I would say so. His fastball constantly hit in the mid-90's as well as his cutter hitting 90-mph.

Command, control, confidence. That is the essence of the Cardinals' ace.

Despite Cardinals nation holding their collective breath with each pitch the notoriously fragile Carpenter threw, his own manager knew he had it in him all along.

"It's not surprising," said Tony La Russa. "It's just amazing and impressive to be able to shut that club out for five innings."

Having multiple arm surgeries, nerve ailments, and oblique strains have cost Carpenter several great years on the DL. Who knows what could have been in 2006, 2007, and 2008 if not for injuries.

Several Cy Young trophies could be sitting on his mantle right now. Alas, he only has the one from 2005 but if he can continue to stay healthy he could compete for another one this year.

Staying healthy is something that Carpenter knows is a top priority.

"I'm just trying to go out and stay healthy," said Carpenter. "I know if I'm healthy that my ability has a chance to come out, and I have a chance to give my team a chance to win. Unfortunately I haven't been healthy a whole lot, and that's all that concerns me."

The Cardinals were cruising through the innings with their bullpen when Carpenter came out as Kyle McClellan pitched two scoreless frames. Jason Motte and Dennys Reyes completed out the eighth without incident.

The stage was set for closer Ryan Franklin to end the night with a win for their ace.

Apparently, he wanted a flair for the dramatic.

Two singles and a walk added up to the first Cubs run of the series before the St. Louis closer struck out Reed Johnson to end the game. The Cardinals' bullpen hasn't been charged with a loss in more than three weeks, dating back to Apr. 28 in Atlanta.

It was a nearly perfect game. All that was needed was an Albert Pujols home run; however, you can't get everything you want.

I'll take the hard-fought win.

It was a pitchers duel from the start as the Cubs own starter, Ryan Dempster, pitched seven innings by allowing only two earned runs. He made the Cardinals work for every run they produced.

Outfielder Chris Duncan knew it was going to be a battle.

"It was a pitchers' duel, two good pitchers like that," said Duncan. "Fortunately we got up ahead early and wound up winning."

Duncan, helped contribute to both Cardinals' runs. He singled through a drawn-in infield in the fourth. In the seventh, Duncan doubled, took third on a bunt and scored on Khalil Greene's pinch-hit sacrifice fly.

It was small ball, but it was all the Redbirds needed in support of their ace.

Welcome back Chris Carpenter.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Cubs: Joel Pineiro Goes The Distance In Masterful Outing

Derek Coffelt — Wed, 20 May 2009 08:22:04 -0400

St. Louis Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan must have been brimming with pride as one of his pitchers went the distance against their archrivals.

The pitching masterpiece came from one of the most unlikely sources, Joel Pineiro. Pitching a complete game, 3-0 shutout against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday, it was a welcome sight for Cardinals nation.

Allowing only three hits and issuing zero free passes, Pineiro was the stopper the Redbirds needed to get back on track after a terrible series against the Milwaukee Brewers over the weekend.

Pineiro not only stifled a dangerous Chicago offense, he dominated it by facing one batter over the minimum and needing only 92 pitches to shut down the Cubs as he retired the last 13 batters he faced.

He knew that the Cubs offense was aggressive at the plate, and he took full advantage of it.

"When we had our meetings, we kind of knew," said Pineiro. "They're a very aggressive team. They want to try to knock the pitcher out and get him out of the game early. If you make your pitches down in the zone, they'll be on the ground like they were today."

Pineiro kept everything down in the zone alright, inducing only four fly-ball outs in the entire game.

Everything else was on the ground and as an infielder, Brendan Ryan loved every minute of it.

"As an infielder, you've got to love when a sinkerballer is throwing," said Brendan Ryan, who had six assists among Pineiro's 17 ground-ball outs. "When he's got his stuff, it makes it all the more fun. What can you say about JP? That's as fun as it gets. Everybody got in the act. That's just fun baseball."

Pineiro was on his game, but what about St. Louis' offense? As mentioned, the Cardinals were swept in a pathetic three-game series against Milwaukee that officially knocked them out of first place in the NL Central.

The Brewers were not a team to sneeze at, but St. Louis' offense failed to show up as slugger Albert Pujols continues to struggle with Ryan Ludwick and Rick Ankiel out of the lineup.

Pujols simply isn't getting any pitches to hit as teams pitch around him and challenge the other batters in the lineup to try and do the damage.

Rookie outfielder Colby Rasmus was more than ready to oblige Cubs starter Ted Lilly. Hammering a fastball left over the plate, he destroyed Lilly's pitching mistake in yet another monstrous home run estimated at 417 feet.

It was his fourth home run on the season and his third round-tripper in five games. If not for Friday's rained out contest, he would have tacked on yet another long ball.

He's certainly on a torrid pace and it's a great sight to see as he's been waiting in the wings for so long in AAA. Impressing the Cardinals brass last year in Spring Training, he just wasn't considered "seasoned" enough to be brought up.

Rasmus is certainly making a name for himself now.

Rasmus knew that Lilly was a good, quality veteran pitcher but waited for his pitch at the plate.

"He's tough," said Rasmus. "That curveball, he's good. He makes good pitches. Fortunately, he made a little mistake."

However, Pineiro's pitching performance ruled the contest.

The best way to sum it all up was from the skipper himself, manager Tony La Russa.

"It was a masterpiece," said La Russa.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Pirates: Redbirds Avoid Sweep with the Help of a Young Gun

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 15 May 2009 11:38:38 -0400

With All-star slugger Ryan Ludwick and veteran Rick Ankiel both on the disabled list, the St. Louis Cardinals looked extremely thin at their outfield positions.

Colby Rasmus stepped up to the plate to fill-in for those big shoes as he helped St. Louis defeat the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-1 on Thursday.

The win helped the Redbirds avoid a sweep from the Pirates in what would have been a series to forget if not for Rasmus' moonshot.

With one out and a runner on first in a scoreless game in the second inning, Rasmus jumped on a first-pitch fastball from Pittsburgh starter Jeff Karstens and launched it high and far. The ball bounced off the upper River Walk outside PNC Park and caromed into the Allegheny River. It was estimated to have traveled 458 feet.

The young rookie had a game plan when stepping inside the batter's box.

"That's the goal, every time—get a good pitch to hit, put a good swing on it, hit it hard somewhere," Rasmus said. "It feels good. It's been a while. I used to hit [home runs] a little more regularly than that, but now they don't come as much. It felt pretty good."

Talk about making a name for yourself. It was a shot team leader Albert Pujols would take awe in.

Manager Tony La Russa took stock of the recent road trip.

"It was a tough trip, but getting the last one in both places, that makes the trip look a lot different," La Russa said. "Not a good one, but it makes it look different."

Rasmus' home run was much a needed power surge with the reigning NL MVP hitting a rough patch in his offensive numbers recently since the Cardinals hosted the Pirates back on May 7.

Since that day, Pujols' batting average has dropped 33 points while managing to bat just 4-for-25. It's obvious affects from Ankiel's absence in the lineup after his gruesome head-first crash into the outfield wall on May 5.

Despite the drop in batting average, the sliver slugger still has managed to drive in six runs combined with two home runs and three walks. Two of those RBIs came on a two-run single Pujols hit in the eighth inning in Thursday's contest.

Pujols is still being patient at the plate but is hitting several first inning round-trippers with no one on base.

Does T-Rex Pennybaker ring any bells?

That patience and collective "coolness" is something his skipper appreciates and takes note of.

"That's why he's a great hitter," La Russa said. "He puts the ball in play. A lot of times, he puts the ball in play in the middle of the field where he's got an opening. He hit some balls hard and got nothing, but he doesn't get frustrated. He gets frustrated, but he collects himself and comes back ready to go."

Mitchell Boggs was serviceable in the absence of ace Chris Carpenter but hasn't been able to pitch past six innings of work at all this season. Needing 82 pitches to complete only four-and-a-third innings, Boggs once again relied on the bullpen to carry the load.

In games past I would have thought that was a death sentence, but recently the St. Louis bullpen has been nearly flawless.

Five pitchers combined to collect the last 14 outs, and in that time, only one Pirate even got into scoring position. After a rocky April, Cardinals relievers have a composite 2.53 ERA in May. No reliever has been charged with a loss since Apr. 28, in Atlanta.

It remains to be seen if this corps of relievers can help deliver any postseason success but maybe the Cardinals brass knew what they were talking about when it came to a quiet offseason.

Sticking to their guns about not signing any long term deal with a reliever, the Cardinals headed into the 2009 season with an, at best, a questionable closer. At worst, yet another league-leading blown save performance from their mediocre relievers.

Proving to be reliable is the best thing St. Louis could hope for as Kyle Lohse, Todd Wellemeyer, and Joel Pineiro all are struggling.

Hope is on the horizon as Chris Carpenter is eyeing a return some time next week and has healed ahead of schedule from his oblique strain.

For St. Louis to keep a top the NL Central, they'll need him to be just as dominate as he was in 2005.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Report: Manny Ramirez Tests Positive for PED's, Suspended 50 Games

Derek Coffelt — Thu, 07 May 2009 12:17:01 -0400

According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, slugger Manny Ramirez has tested positive for using performance-enhancing drugs.

As a result, he's been suspended 50 games starting with tonight's game against the Washington Nationals. He won't be eligible to return to the Dodgers until July 3.

Details are still sketchy at this point, but Ramirez is expected to attribute the test results to medication received from a doctor for a personal medical issue, according to a source familiar with matter but not authorized to speak publicly.

According to his agent Scott Boras, this was NOT a positive test for steroids but for another kind of banned drug.

Major League Baseball spokesman Pat Courtney said he could not comment, citing the limitations stipulated in baseball's drug policy.

Reports are coming in that the MLB knew about the positive test for several weeks now. This comes as no surprise, but one has to wonder whether or not Manny's name was on the same list that Alex Rodriguez's.

From that list, 104 names had yet to be released on that leaked testimony, but Manny's link with PED's certainly has to stunt any streak the Dodgers had been on. Currently holding the best record in the majors at 21-8, their record is almost certain but to take a nose dive.

It may not be immediate because the players may rally around this, but once the fire of that comes to a halt, things will get very interesting.

The NL West just got wide open.

In a slumping economy, this is the last thing the MLB needed. Another drug scandal only will now make the already jaded and cynical baseball fan that much more paranoid and distrustful of players.

I'm not quite there yet, but as the chips fall this doesn't seem to shock me now. It's become apart of the game now and it only fuels the lines and pages of articles like this around the world.

Being a fan of the game but aspiring to be a journalist, it's still tough to see this. I remember seeing Manny putting up huge numbers as a Cleveland Indian when they took on my local Atlanta Braves in the 1995 World Series.

He was a force to be reckoned with and that picture of him is what I want to remember. Even though using any kind of PED doesn't change the kind of hitter or pitcher you are, it still is something that makes a difference apparently if major leaguers are using it.

Information attributed to Rotoworld.com

Cardinals-Pirates: Albert Pujols Stops Bleeding with Long Ball

Derek Coffelt — Thu, 07 May 2009 10:12:03 -0400

Apparently MLB managers didn't get the memo on Albert Pujols. He continues to torch pitchers left and right as he added to his stats on Wednesday when the Cardinals defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-2, stopping a three-game losing skid.

One stat that should immediately be noticed is his home runs. Once again, he cranked a round-tripper in the first inning of the contest, which seems to be his motto as of late. “Hit 'em early, hit 'em often.”

The next stat after that should be how many strikeouts he's produced: nine. That's right. "El Hombre" has more homers than strikeouts.

Seeing Pujols become the best five-tool player in the game has been a satisfying sight, to say the least.

As is the norm with power hitters, they are usually punched out more often because of their tendency to try to swing for the fences in every at-bat. Cases in point: Adam Dunn and Ryan Howard.

Known "fondly" as strikeout kings, these sluggers continually are in the top five in strikeouts every year—but not Albert Pujols. He doesn't consider himself a power hitter, as he finished the night going 4-for-4 with two runs scored. The perfect night for him raised his batting average back to .364.

As much as Pujols contributed towards the win, so did platoon outfielder Chris Duncan.

Hitting a two-run triple off Pirates starter Zach Duke in the fourth inning, he showcased a hint of speed that has long been absent from the slugger. It was his first career triple against any left-handed pitcher.

Duncan, who has been benched several times against lefties, had been getting more playing time after the gut-wrenching crash fellow outfielder Rick Ankiel suffered several days ago.

Ankiel turned out to be fine but has been left out for precautionary reasons.

Manager Tony La Russa knew Duncan could hit lefties, but knew that it was because of his health.

"It's a matter of him being healthy like he was when he first got here," said La Russa. "When he first got here, he used to hit home runs against left-handers. He hasn't been healthy for two years. What he did in '06 and the first half of '07, that's what he's capable of doing."

With the triple, Duncan raised his average to .281 and his slugging percentage to .500 against left-handed pitching. Not great, but it's a great improvement from his last two years at the plate.

He attributed his recent success against southpaws to his confidence while at bat.

"I think I just have more confidence from playing against them more and having some success early on," said Duncan. "I think it's given me more confidence. I don't, as much, think to myself, 'Oh no, it's a lefty.' It's just, hey, I'm hitting, I'm taking an at-bat. In my mind it's irrelevant whether he's left-handed or right-handed. Whereas, before, I might really, go, 'Oh no, it's a left-hander.'"

As the offense for St. Louis was clicking, the starting pitching took a bit of a rough start.

Recent call-up Mitchell Boggs took the mound and pitched an effective game, but he needed 85 pitches to complete four-and-a-third innings of work. Fewer than half of those were called for strikes, which suggests a bit of a control issue for Boggs.

He held the Pirates to only two runs while striking out four, but was replaced by Trever Miller while only needing two more outs to be credited for the win.

Maybe La Russa pulled the trigger too early on Boggs, but the young pitcher had only himself to blame for the runs scored and for not locating his pitches. Nate McLouth's RBI double in the fifth inning didn't help the situation.

The rest of the bullpen for the Cardinals was lights out as Kyle McClellan, Dennys Reyes, Jason Motte, and Ryan Franklin all combined to give up only one hit and one walk.

The bullpen shutdown is something the Cardinals need if they have any hopes of competing in the postseason.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Nationals: Mitchell Boggs Impresses But Isn't a Factor

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 01 May 2009 09:45:24 -0400

The St. Louis Cardinals continued their dramatics on Thursday as they rallied to defeat the Washington Nationals 9-4.

Scoring five runs in the top of the ninth inning, the Nationals bullpen seemed to show shades of St. Louis' from 2008 by imploding on themselves.

Their stadium currently still stands, but that was a horrible outing for them. Recently demoted closer Joel Hanrahan and former Cardinal Julian Tavarez helped contribute to the meltdown.

All in all, the Cardinals scored on a combination of three hits, two walks, a hit batsman and a balk. One of those hits was from recently called-up rookie Tyler Greene.

With the bases loaded, Greene managed an infield single over Cristian Guzman's glove to help contribute toward the offensive explosion.

"With the bases loaded, I was just trying to get something over the plate, and I was out in front and cued it over to third and just put it in the right spot," said Greene. "It's been a dream come true. It was awesome getting that call, surreal at first, and after tonight it's all becoming reality. "

Apparently one Greene is as good as another, as the rookie got the start at shortshop over the veteran Khalil Greene. Khalil did make a pinch-hit appearance in the ninth and drew a walk.

Cardinals starter Mitchell Boggs had an impressive outing by striking out a career-high nine batters in six innings of work. He impressed, but he allowed four earned runs, including a two-run homer to Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman in the fifth inning.

He nearly got double-digit strikeouts, which his manager took note of.

"Boggs was outstanding," said Tony La Russa. "He's got legitimate stuff. He has a lot of movement, he's improving his off-speed pitches and he's very competitive."

Providing a much-needed solid outing with Chris Carpenter out, Boggs certainly had a much better performance than spot starter P.J. Walters. Walters, relegated to the bullpen, did pitch a scoreless inning but also walked a batter of his own.

Albert Pujols contributed his seemingly "usual" 2-for-4 hitting performance on the night. Adding on a two-run homer back in the first inning of the game, while managing yet another stolen base, Pujols flashed his brilliant combination of power and speed.

He continues his torrid pace toward his third MVP crown as he raised his average to .337 coupled with eight home runs and 28 RBI.

The Cardinals now have the best record in the majors with a 16-7 record.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Side Note

I just wanted to state that this will be my 100th article here on B/R. I didn't want to make a separate article about it because it really isn't that big of a deal. I just wanted to make special mention of it because writing is where my passion lies.

Accolades are just icing on the cake, but I just wanted to thank all of my fans and editors here who helped contribute toward feedback and inspiration. It has helped me continually turn in pieces of work toward my favorite teams.

Thank you.

Cardinals-Braves: Joel Pineiro Stays Perfect With Defensive Help

Derek Coffelt — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 09:57:22 -0400

The Cardinals have taken some flak about their defensive play thus far this season. Committing 20 errors through the first 19 games of the season, St. Louis led the majors in fielding blunders.

They needed a game to right the ship.

That is exactly what they got as the Cardinals defeated the Braves 3-2 on Monday night.

St. Louis' defense, which managed to turn two double plays, helped starter Joel Pineiro keep a perfect record of 4-0 this season.

Inducing 13 ground outs with his two-seam sinking fastball, the veteran Pineiro only needed 76 pitches to produce 20 outs. Talk about effective.

Pineiro knew that if he got the ball down in the strike zone, his defense would back him up.

"You trust in your defense," said Pineiro. "That's why I throw that sinker any time in the count, and hopefully they hit them at someone."

His last out actually marked the end of a streak that any pitcher wouldn't want to be a part of: Striking out Brandon Jones was his first punch-out in 56 consecutive batters he faced.

He won't overpower you with his fastball, but Pineiro knows how to get a batter out.

The entire St. Louis infield played well, but shortstop Brendan Ryan provided the most highlights, turning in three outstanding and critical plays. Ryan made an exceptional sliding stop and strong throw to retire David Ross in the fifth inning and made slick plays to start the two key double plays.

Manager Tony La Russa knew how important Ryan's plays were to preserve the lead in a close game.

"The shortstop had a great day," said La Russa. "You've got to give him special credit. There were a couple of outstanding plays. He made three of them. In a one-run game, if he misses any one of those, who knows what the outcome is?"

Ryan isn't an everyday player, however, if you can get this kind of defense from a platoon infielder, you have a deep bench. It speaks volumes about the coaching staff that continually finds ways of bringing the unsung heroes into the limelight with their knowledge of the game.

David Ross, a fill-in catcher for the injured Brian McCann, was on the wrong end of one of Ryan's circus-type plays. After scorching a ball towards him that was all but certain to produce a hit for Ross, Ryan instinctively moved to his right and corralled the ball and through a laser to first from his knees.

According to Ryan, he had no doubt that he could make the play.

"I want to make every play," said Ryan. "Anything I can get to, I want to make a play on. I knew I could get to that ball, and I knew Ross wasn't going to be getting down the line lightning-quick. So I knew if I got enough on it I was going to get the out. I just wanted to make sure it was accurate."

Rick Ankiel was the difference on the offensive side of the ball as he came through in critical times for the Cardinals. Hitting two RBI singles with two outs, he continues to swing a hot bat.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Cubs: Albert Pujols Blasts into the Record Books in Grand Style

Derek Coffelt — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 23:45:40 -0400

He's simply the best I've seen, and that is no exaggeration.

Albert Pujols lead the way once again as the Cardinals beat their long time rivals, the Chicago Cubs 8-2 on Saturday.

If I was there to see what Pujols did, I would have tipped my cap to him as well. "El Hombre" hit his second grand slam of the year literally out of Busch Stadium.

The official measurement was 441 feet, but I still think it hasn't landed yet.

The moonshot Pujols hit over the left field fence elevated him past 1,000 career RBIs. He became the 23rd active player in the majors to achieve such a goal. He not only went into the MLB record books, but St. Louis' as well as he moved into fifth place on the Cardinals' all-time RBI list.

Platoon infielder Brian Barden and shortstop Khalil Greene provided the rest of the offense, as they went for a combined 5-for-7 with three RBI and three runs scored.

All of this offense was in support of Mitchell Boggs. With Chris Carpenter down for an extended period of time with an oblique tear, P.J. Walters and Boggs have been called upon to try and fill the big man's cleats.

Walters had a decent outing in his only start but was rocked in his first relief appearance.

It was clear that he was not the answer.

Enter Mitchell Boggs.

Starting in a big time game against the Cubs for his first start of the 2009 season, Boggs allowed one unearned run on six hits in 5 2/3 innings of work.

Boggs stated that he felt as if he truly belonged in Cardinal red.

"I feel a lot more confident about myself right now," said Boggs. "I feel more comfortable around here. These guys have accepted me. Last year, they were great teammates, too, but this year, I just feel like I belong here. If I do the things that I am capable of doing, I know I can help this team win."

The only trouble Boggs ran into was in the fifth inning when Ryan Theriot and Kosuke Fukudome both hit singles in the inning. With runners on the bases, the always dangerous Alfonso Soriano stepped up to the plate.

Soriano had already did his damage to the Cardinals when St. Louis visited the Cubs in Chicago earlier this year. He consequently hammered a slider that was capped off as a two-run round-tripper.

Chris Perez was the guilty party on that day.

Boggs apparently shrugged off the pressure as he got the veteran outfielder to swing and miss on three straight sliders to stop a potentially disastrous scenario.

Despite Boggs making Soriano look like a minor leaguer at the plate, he knew just how much of a slugger he is.

"He's as dangerous a hitter as there is in Major League Baseball," said Boggs. "He hits every pitch. He doesn't have a weakness. What I had going for me is that he was really aggressive and I was able to make some pitches down. He was trying to change the game and I was fortunate enough that he went after a couple."

Fellow battery mate and catcher Yadier Molina has seen the good deal of progression in Boggs.

"He has more experience, no doubt," said Molina. "And it shows. He looks like he has a lot more experience and a lot more confidence. He kept the ball down. He pitched pretty good."

Boggs' skipper Tony La Russa also acknowledged how valuable a pitcher he has been.

"He's got the things that you look for," said La Russa. "He's got enough talent. Everybody that has ever had him in the Minor Leagues always talks about how tough he competes."

Mitchell Boggs certainly has impressed thus far. The question remains can he keep this momentum going in his next inevitable start.

St. Louis is now 13-5 and tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the best record in the majors.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Cubs: Pujols Leads St. Louis Past Chicago With Speed

Derek Coffelt — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 10:58:06 -0400

Albert Pujols has accomplished much already in his career. Last night, he added yet another accolade to that long list.

For the first time in his career, he stole a base in his third consecutive game. That base, coupled with a 2-for-4 performance at the plate, helped the Cardinals sneak past the Chicago Cubs 4-3 on Friday.

He's long been regarded as "aggressive" on the base paths. Sometimes that results in great, heads-up ball playing but other times it results in being greedy and getting caught on the basepaths.

It's a fine line, especially when you're a six-foot-three-inch, 230-pound first baseman.

However, all-star slugger and fellow teammate Ryan Ludwick knows just how great of a "speed demon" he can be.

"He's just a smart player, a real smart player," said Ludwick. "Good base-runner. He does everything on the baseball field above-average."

His stolen base put him into scoring position and Ludwick drove him in on an RBI-single in the bottom of the eighth inning.

Once again, a heads-up play from an offense that is using everything in their arsenal to win. Whether it be by the long ball or small ball, the Cardinals have put together an impressive 12-5 record to lead the NL Central.

Pujols' single to get him on base along with Ludwick's go-ahead hit were against yet another premier set-up man, Carlos Marmol. This, just one day after battling against New York Mets' own set-up man J.J. Putz.

Talk about clutch hitting.

Pujols knew just how hard of a battle he was in for when Marmol came into the game.

"[Marmol] is the best setup man in the game right now and a future closer, pretty soon," said Pujols. "When you see a guy like that, that has really good success against everybody in the league, it's pretty tough to get three base hits in a row. You try to make anything happen, however you can. I started it, and then Ludwick got a big hit for us."

Once again the "gruesome twosome" came through in the late innings for the Redbirds.

Starter Adam Wainwright had one of his best outings of the year but was tagged with the no-decision after heading into the seventh inning with a three-run lead. Alas, he gave up a single and RBI double to the first two batters he faced.

After loading the bases, Skip Schumaker made a critical fielding error as Mets pinch-hitter Micah Hoffpauir hit a fly ball that bounced off of Schumaker's glove and went into left field.

Not his finest moment at second base, but he's only made two errors are year at his newly acquired position.

That error equated to New York's second run and after Ryan Theriot hit into a double play, the third run came across the plate to tie the game. Wainwright minimized the damage as he only gave up that one earned run while striking out six and only walking one batter.

Wainwright knew the potency of the lineup he was facing.

"That's more like it," said Wainwright. "They have a quality lineup on the other side, and I made my pitches most of the night and got them out. When you're working ahead in the count and getting strike one on everybody, then they have to be aggressive because they don't want to go 0-2. They have to swing the bat, so they swing at your pitches."

The bullpen came through yet again for St. Louis as the Cards' bullpen worked two fine innings. Kyle McClellan allowed a lead-off double but escaped without permitting a run in the eighth. Ryan Franklin walked one, but navigated the ninth for his fifth save in as many tries.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Mets: Pujols Helps Complete Sweep with the Long Ball

Derek Coffelt — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 17:27:27 -0400

It wasn't anything we didn't know already. Albert Pujols is one of the best hitters in the majors.

I may go out on a "limb" and say he's the best hitter.

Prove me wrong.

El Hombre's quest for another ring led the Cardinals past the Mets in a 12-8 slugfest on Thursday afternoon. The victory completed the sweep of New York as the big bats once again refused to be silenced.

Pujols hit a solo homer in the first inning to get the Cardinals on the board. He singled and stole a base in the fourth, igniting a three-run rally that gave the Cardinals the lead for good. He added a two-run shot in the fifth as the Cardinals turned the game into a blowout.

He finished the day going 3-for-4 with three RBI combined with four runs scored. Pujols also added a walk to boot.

The big man is, quite frankly, just a terror to face at the plate. If Pujols doesn't nail the pitcher on the mound in the face (sorry, Chris Young), he'll hit the ball to all fields. He's once again hitting in the middle of the .300 AVG range, his natural stomping ground.

If he keeps up this torrid pace, he'll be shining up his third MVP trophy come next year.

The Redbird's outfield provided most of the other offense. Colby Rasmus, Rick Ankiel, and Ryan Ludwick went for a combined 7-for-14 with five RBI, four runs scored, and a walk.

Outfielder turned second baseman Skip Schumaker showed signs of settling into his new position, and he did not commit an error while stepping it up on the offensive end. He went 2-for-5 with two RBI.

Cardinals starter Kyle Lohse wasn't overpowering by any means, but he got the job done pitching five innings while managing to give up only one run on eight hits.

Not exactly what I wanted to see from Lohse, but as long as the "W" is there, I'll take it.

The only concern for me was the game newcomer P.J. Walters turned in. Barely lasting just over two innings of work, he allowed five earned on five hits that included two home runs from Mets outfielders Ryan Church and Carlos Beltran.

Walters, called up after the Chris Carpenter injury, pitched an "interesting" game in his first outing. Giving up three earned on six hits, he impressed some by also striking out seven.

Maybe he just needs to make more starts instead of relief appearances, but hopefully this will be a hard learning experience for the young pitcher.

With the sweep, St. Louis improved to 11-5. It's their best 16-game start under current manager Tony La Russa. Certainly some cause for celebration as the only other better start to the season the Redbirds had was going 13-3 in 1982.

Coincidentally, they won the championship that year.

Information and statistics attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Mets: St. Louis' Weakest Link Helps Secure a Victory

Derek Coffelt — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:19:15 -0400

It was probably too good to be true—I couldn't believe my own eyes.

The Cardinals bullpen was actually protecting a lead that their offense had scraped together.

However, it wasn't a dream. It was reality as Ryan Frankin and company slammed the door shut on the New York Mets 6-4 on Tuesday night.

Both starters for the game weren't particularly effective, as Mets starter Oliver Perez left the game in the fifth inning with four earned runs on six hits, while managing to walk five batters.

St. Louis' starter, Todd Wellemeyer, was arguably worse, as he managed to pitch five innings but allowed four earned runs on 10 hits, while only managing a single strikeout.

Slugger Albert Pujols helped contribute with his usual consistent offense with a two-run double. Shortstop Khalil Greene and utility man Joe Thurston rounded out St. Louis' four runs through most of the contest with an RBI from each man.

The game was officially a stalemate at that point as the game remained tied for most of the rest of the contest. If either ball club was going to win this game, it was going to be from the bullpen.

"David versus Goliath," I told myself.

The Mets had completely revamped their bullpen in the offseason, adding flamethrowers J.J. Putz and Francisco Rodriguez. The Cardinals added...no one worth mentioning.

I was astonished to see Kyle McClellan pitch two scoreless innings of baseball, something that he'd only shown flashes of this season and rarely last year.

Dennys Reyes issued a walk, but at least he didn't give up a run. Jason Motte's antics returned to the mound, only this time he was all business as he finished out Reyes' inning without allowing a hit.

His stock rose slightly above a penny for this Cardinals' faithful.

The Mets countered with scoreless innings of their own with Casey Fossum, Brian Stokes, and Pedro Feliciano.

The two teams had entrenched themselves into their respective lines and dug foxholes, something had to break this stalemate.

The eighth inning would prove to be the difference.

Carlos Beltran has historically been a Cardinal killer and he certainly had a decent night going 2-for-3 with an RBI. However, his base-running blunder in the top of the eighth inning would prove costly.

With one out and Beltran on second base, Ramon Castro flied out to right field. Beltran advanced to third, and when Joe Thurston couldn't corral the ball, the speedy outfielder tried to score. However, Thurston got a throw home in time and Beltran didn't slide, allowing catcher Yadier Molina to tag him for the third out of the inning.

Molina had blocked the plate perfectly and Beltran's foot landed right on top of his, completely missing home plate.

Beltran attributed his base-running mishap to carelessness.

"When I took off to home plate, I was watching the ball," said Beltran. "And when I looked at home plate, I was too close to slide. Molina was on top of the plate and I tried to go over his foot, but I stepped on it and I wasn't able to touch [the plate]."

The bottom of the eighth would give all the runs the Cardinals would need. Brendan Ryan led off the inning with a triple after Mets outfielder Ryan Church slipped and fell after misjudging the trajectory of the ball.

I laughed.

Ryan recalled the circus-type play.

"That's about as hard as I can hit a ball," said Ryan. "When I hit it, I looked at him and I saw him coming in, and I thought, 'This has zoo maybe written all over it.' It could have gone in the lights. I don't know if he was trying to stop to reach. I think he was probably trying to brace himself to jump or reach. I'm just glad it sat down."

Rick Ankiel would easily get him in with a double as he showed signs of waking up with a three-hit performance. Ryan Ludwick provided an insurance run with a sacrifice fly.

All of this could be chalked up to good luck, but it was all against premier set-up man J.J. Putz. The Cardinals had struck a blow into that impervious Mets bullpen.

David had slayed Goliath.

All dramatics aside, the Mets certainly took the Cardinals to the limit. St. Louis' offense was lucky to even be in a tie ball game as they were down 4-0 going into the fifth inning and rallied back to win.

Wednesday's game pits John Maine against Joel Pineiro where Pineiro has had much better numbers at home than on the road. Hopefully, St. Louis' offense can get things started earlier rather than later.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Cubs: Ludwick's Heroics Fall Short as Bullpen Implodes

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:38:39 -0400

Ryan Ludwick certainly is no fluke.

The 30-year-old outfielder proved just how potent his bat can be on Friday as the Cardinals lost a nail-biter 8-7 to the Chicago Cubs.

The All-Star slugger hit a pair of homers off Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano in the third and seventh innings and finished the day with four RBI. He did strike out twice though, including a critical at-bat in the ninth inning against Carlos Marmol.

The Cardinals couldn't have been given a better opportunity to re-gain the lead as they had runners at first and second base with no outs. Rookie Colby Rasmus walked and slugger Albert Pujols was drilled with a slider in the elbow.

Ludwick's heroics could only go so far as he chased a high 93-mph fastball from Marmol. The rest of the game is history.

Zambrano, who has horrid numbers against St. Louis, lasted seven innings but gave up nine hits and seven earned runs. The Redbirds continued to use his pitching style as a band box for their offense.

As is the norm at Wrigley Field, offense for both teams played a key role. As great a day Ludwick had for the Cardinals, Chicago's Alfonso Soriano proved how clutch he can be.

It was the bottom of the eighth inning and flamethrower Chris Perez was called upon to try and shut down the Cubs' potent offense. It has been no secret that manager Tony La Russa did not think too highly of Perez in terms of taking over the closer's duties.

So the eighth inning was his to prove his worth, which turned out to be no more than a penny with a hole in it.

Soriano drilled Perez's slider into the bleachers to give the Cubs the lead.

Perhaps the Redbirds shouldn't have let Aaron Miles go, as he was on base when Perez coughed up yet another lead in his young career.

With pitching ace Chris Carpenter out for nearly two months with a torn oblique muscle, P. J. Walters was called upon as a spot starter. The young 23-year-old had a rocky first couple of innings but settled down for the next two as he struck out seven batters but gave up three earned runs.

Three runs is not something a major league ball club couldn't overcome, so the game was anyone's to grab.

Insert St. Louis' bullpen.

Trevor Miller turned in one inning pitched while giving up two earned runs on three hits. Mitchell Boggs, recently recalled from the minors, gave up yet another run.

The day was capped off with Perez surrendering the two-run homer to Soriano to earn the blown save and the loss.

The season is young and there is much more baseball left to play. However, you cannot win championships by out-slugging the entire league. St. Louis needs their own "sandman."

Cardinals-Astros: Kyle Lohse Shuts Down Houston in Pitching Gem

Derek Coffelt — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 18:53:29 -0400

Closer by committee? Who needs it? Certainly not Kyle Lohse.

The young right-hander dominated the Houston Astros with a complete game gem on his way to help the Cardinals win 3-0 on Easter Sunday, completing the series sweep.

Like many baseball fans believe, sometimes the first pitch of a game can reveal just how the rest of the game could turn out.

Lohse's first pitch of the contest equated to a single from Kaz Matsui.

However, he must have been thinking about his new four-year, $41 million contract as he quickly settled down and retired the next 24 batters he faced. Lohse ended the game only allowing two more hits, coupled with striking out three batters.

No, he isn't the ace of the St. Louis Cardinals—but today's pitching performance was the best a Redbirds hurler has turned in all season: The use of the bullpen was not needed.

The past week encased some blown saves and incomprehensible earned runs for the St. Louis bullpen, which had the most blown saves in the majors last year. Personally, I think they needed a night off and Lohse gave them just that.

The Cardinals got their offense not from the long ball like yesterday, but with the small ball. They took the lead in the fourth inning on an RBI single by All-Star Ryan Ludwick followed by an RBI groundout from platoon outfielder Chris Duncan.

Duncan, who was injured for a good part of last year, has put up some solid offensive numbers so far in this young season. At only 28 years old, he possesses formidable power at the plate, however his defense is what hurts his value as an everyday player.

If only the National League had a DH spot, but that's another argument.

Colby Rasmus then scored on a Khalil Greene two-out RBI single in the fifth to make the final score of the game. Greene, added in the offseason, was considered a better offensive upgrade than Felipe Lopez, whom the Cardinals needed as another solid bat in the lineup.

He isn't considered a power hitter by any stretch of the imagination, but Greene is making the most of hitting in the same lineup as Albert Pujols.

With Houston wrapped up and tied off with a bow just in time for Easter, St. Louis now leaves the friendly confines of Busch Stadium to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Hopefully this series won't be an early trap game for the Redbirds, as they will take on their long-time rivals, the Chicago Cubs, in the series after that.

Cardinals-Astros: Pujols Goes Grand in Quest For Third MVP

Derek Coffelt — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 22:02:17 -0400

On Saturday afternoon, Albert Pujols showed exactly why he is thought of as one of the most dangerous hitters on the planet.

Pujols lead the way in an 11-2 blowout over the Houston Astros finishing the contest with a career-high seven RBI. His day was highlighted with a towering grand slam in the fifth inning against revered ace Roy Oswalt.

The silver slugger added a three-run round-tripper in the seventh for good measure.

If any doubt remained about Pujols' talent, it should have been laid to rest after the hitting clinic he displayed. It was his 24th major league multi-homer game. He is one of, if not the best, hitters in the game.

Cardinals’ starter Adam Wainwright couldn't agree more.

"I am just blown away by that guy," Wainwright said. "I think he's the best hitter of all time. I think there's never been a better hitter than him. I know I didn't see them all, but I just don't think there could be. I just think he's the best."

The praise did not end there as Astros’ first baseman Lance Berkman took stock of the reigning NL MVP.

"He's the best hitter in the game, and he continues to do things like that that are amazing," Berkman said. "It really doesn't surprise me. I don't think anything he did would surprise me. If he homered in 10 straight at-bats, it wouldn't surprise me. He's that good."

His teammates know it and now the rest of the league needs to take notice that Pujols and the Cardinals are running on all cylinders out of the starting gate.

I know. The season isn't a sprint, it's a marathon. However, marathons have their ups and downs and Pujols doesn't intend on letting up anytime soon. He's been predicted to win the triple crown which will almost certainly lock up his third MVP trophy.

With offensive performances like today, Pujols could very well accomplish that feat.

Roy Oswalt intended to intentionally walk Pujols even though it would have brought home a run with the bases loaded. Perhaps he should have taken that route because his thigh-high 93-mph fastball traveled to the next area code.

Oswalt's pitch was a hard one to hit even if a batter knew it was coming. However, Albert Pujols is not your normal batter.

Even Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa knew of the general outcome of a pitch like that.

"It's a ball that nine times out of 10 is a ground ball to short or third for a double play, or maybe it sneaks through," La Russa said. "The way (Pujols) keeps his hands inside—it's amazing."

Despite the monstrous, 431-foot blast against Oswalt, Pujols spoke highly of the veteran pitcher.

"The guy's a competitor," Pujols said. "He's one of the best pitchers in the game. I think you need to go out there and be prepared, and hopefully he makes a mistake and you'll be ready and take advantage."

Oswalt has been one of the most consistent pitchers in the game to stay competitive at this high level. That's why Pujols' grand slam is so impressive.

Aside from the fireworks on the offensive end for the Redbirds, starter Adam Wainwright fought for his first win of the season. Despite only lasting five innings and walking three batters, he pitched a quiet, but effective, game while not giving up a run.

The bullpen started out great with Jason Motte and Dennys Reyes pitched scoreless seventh and eighth innings. The only offense mustered by the Astros was against veteran Brad Thompson who allowed two earned runs in the ninth.

It was a great win for the Cardinals, but their bullpen still showed signs of cracks in its armor. If La Russa can find ways to stop the bleeding in the late innings, the Redbirds could look to do some serious damage against the rest of the league.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Cardinals-Pirates Recap: Chris Carpenter Dominates in Thursday's 2-1 Game

Derek Coffelt — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:35:58 -0400

I had to check the calendar once again to remind myself that it was 2009. I thought I was watching a replay of a game Chris Carpenter pitched during his 2005 Cy Young season.

The longtime Redbird absolutely dominated the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday, winning a close 2-1 game to split the series at two games apiece.

Carpenter struck out seven batters while only giving up a single hit and pitching seven dominating innings. It was a fantastic sight to see as the Cardinals ace look as if he has returned to his old form.

Carpenter took a no-hitter deep into the seventh inning with only one more out needed to get into the eighth. It was his first win since the 2006 World Championship season in the World Series.

A masterful performance indeed.

After the debacle that was Todd Wellemeyer during Wednesday's 7-4 loss to the Pirates, this was a welcome gift to the St. Louis faithful.

The offense for the Redbirds was kept in check for the most of the game, as former New York Yankees pitcher Ross Ohlendorf gave up seven hits but was only charged with two earned runs.

Catcher Yadier Molina lead the way for the Cardinals offense, scrounging out a 2-for-3 RBI performance. Platoon infielder Brian Barden provided a pinch hit RBI single to put the Redbirds over the top for the victory.

In the ever-growing saga that is the St. Louis bullpen, longtime reliever Dennys Reyes was called upon by manager Tony LaRussa for the closing duty today. An interesting choice, to say the least, as I thought Jason Motte might get chance to redeem himself after his opening day collapse.

Platoon closer Ryan Franklin dominated his lone inning in the eighth, as the bullpen showed signs of solidification for the first time this season.

Not enough can be said for the performance of Chris Carpenter, though. To this St. Louis follower, the outing he turned in settled many nerves. However, to put this all into perspective...this is April, and it was only the Pittsburgh Pirates.

St. Louis now travels to Houston to take one of their division rivals, the Astros.

Cardinals-Pirates Recap: St. Louis' Bullpen Woes Continue Their Losing Ways

Derek Coffelt — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 21:11:34 -0400

The calendar may read 2009, yet the St. Louis Cardinals started off this season just like they ended it in 2008.

"Same stuff, different day," I said to myself.

Despite the bullpen collapse, I still was hyping myself up in hopes of the Redbirds returning to their post-season glory days.

It was not to be, as the Cardinals fell to the Pirates on Opening Day, 6-4.

Jason Motte's emergence out of the platoon of relief pitchers coming out of Spring Training only spelled disaster in my mind, as I can't fathom how a "closer by committee" approach does anything but destroy a pitcher's mentality.

If history has taught the Cardinals faithful anything, it is that when you expect the worst, it has a way of turning into reality.

Motte allowed a four-run ninth inning that was started by Pittsburgh's shortstop, Jack Wilson. His two-out, three-run double felt like a slap in face, all while Motte's implosion felt like a knife in the back.

Wilson's clutch hit was the final nail in the coffin for Motte's destruction—I covered my face in disgust. It was all preceded when he allowed a pinch-hit double to Eric Hinske, and proceeded to out-do himself only by hitting the next batter, Brandon Moss, to load the bases.

The entire bullpen wasn't to blame as Josh Kinney, Trevor Miller, and Kyle McClellan all pitched scoreless outings, and issued a combined one walk with three hits.

Utter disgust.

The big bats came through for St. Louis, however, as sliver slugger Albert Pujols went 3-for-4. As he set the table, All-Star Ryan Ludwick and newly-acquired Khalil Greene cleared it, going a combined 3-for-10 with three RBI and a solo HR.

Sparks of hope for the Redbirds, as all the offense's hard work would eventually go to waste.

St. Louis' young ace Adam Wainwright had an effective but inefficient day, as he only managed 5 1/3 innings pitched with two earned runs while striking out seven. However, he equaled his career high in issuing walks, with five.

Not his greatest outing my any means, but it was nothing that St. Louis couldn't work with. It was the third year in a row that the Cardinals have lost on Opening Day.

Statistics and information attributed to MLB.com

Ryan Ludwick Agrees to Terms, Follows Teammate's Lead

Derek Coffelt — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 23:33:33 -0500

"Go west young man."

That is what Cardinals slugger Ryan Ludwick must have been mulling over.

Having to decide to fly east to Florida to discuss terms with Redbirds brass or fly west to Arizona to his scheduled arbitration hearing on Tuesday—it was a tough decision.

Ludwick's decision to go to Florida turned out to be the right one, as St. Louis and the 2008 All-Star agreed to a one-year, $3.7 million deal for 2009.

His decision to avoid arbitration probably weighed heavily upon the outcome of negotiations of fellow teammate Rick Ankiel, who signed a one-year, $2.8 million deal just recently.

Now with the Redbirds' outfield intact, everyone can now concentrate on baseball, which is precisely what General Manager John Mozeliak wants to do.

"We are extremely happy to have this deal completed," Mozeliak said in a statement issued by the team. "Everyone is ready to focus their attention on getting ready for the upcoming season. I know 'Luddy' is glad to get this behind him and is looking forward to the 2009 season."

The deal actually favored Ludwick. Arbitration settlements usually end in the midpoint between the sides, but his salary will be $175,000 more than the middle ground of $3.525 million.

In terms of how this helps Cardinals Nation, it's huge, and is perhaps the best news of the offseason as now no players remain unsigned.

Locking up the All-Star slugger now means that reigning NL MVP Albert Pujols won't have to worry about Ludwick's mindset and attitude heading into the season. He'll be there in time for Spring training, and will come ready to play ball.

The offense is there for the Cardinals. Now, the questions once again turn to the rotation as Chris Carpenter attempts to return to his 2005 pitching form.

Can Kyle Lohse produce career numbers as he did in 2008? Will he hold that form into the second half of the season?

Can Adam Wainwright stay healthy as well, and produce pitching ace-like numbers?

Mozeliak's seemingly "laissez faire" attitude towards this offseason may have paid off with Ludwick, however, as more storm clouds approach with the closer's role yet to be solidified, rough waters are still in the forecast for St. Louis.

Questions need answering, but the Cardinals at least answered one with the signing of Ludwick.

Quotes and information attributed to MLB.com

Attention Bug Selig: Here Is What You Need To Do

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:59:33 -0500

It was early and I was just stirring in my bed when I decided I should get up.

Like any routine, I clicked on the old boob tube and switched the channel to ESPN 2's Mike 'n Mike In The Morning. The news of Alex Rodriguez's positive steroid test dominated most of the topics on the show, but some new news was brought to my attention.

Apparently, Commissioner Bud Selig responded to a local Milwaukee journalist by posing the question, "What do you want me to do?"

Obviously, Selig cannot punish offenders for drug usage prior to the current drug testing program. Any attempt to do so would be met with a fierce battle by the Player's Union.

However, in my opinion there IS something Selig can do right now.

Hold a press conference. Admit some wrong doing. Admit that while you sat in your press box you helped contribute to the culture of players using PED's, by profiting from their exploits. Something to show the fans and the baseball world that "the suits" are taking heat for this era as well.

As Selig condemns Alex Rodriguez's use of PED's, he should be holding himself accountable as well. In these hard economic times, accountability counts for a lot; yet, while he continues to denounce the players for "shaming" the game, he gets a pay raise.

Maybe Selig should do some introspection. He may see that merely sending out a notice in 1997, warning teams that any use of steroids without a prescription was illegal, probably wasn't the most proactive solution.

The question Selig posed was also an intriguing one, because it was in response to the journalist's protest of Selig not punishing Rodriguez for his positive steroid test. While I agree that steroids have tarnished, tainted, and smeared all of the players of my generation, I cannot see how you can punish a player for taking a substance that wasn't banned at the time.

Moreover, the original agreement was that none of these tests were going to be made public, nor were any players going to be punished. This was simply an attempt by the MLB to see the prevalence of PED's in baseball. It was a contract agreed upon by both sides.

As much as people want to see the other 103 names come out, I have to voice my own opinion.

What if the same contract was brought to you at your own place of work? What if the company just wanted to see if they had a drug problem on their hands? And you took the test, confident that nobody would ever know of the skeletons you had laying in your closet.

Flash forward six years.

You are about to be promoted to a high level, highly-visible position when news breaks out that you had taken crack/cocaine. Imagine the humiliation, embarrassment, and anger that would ensue.

I'm torn between being journalist and a fan. As a fan, I want to know who used and who did not. At the very least, if we bring the results to light, just maybe we can move forward from all of this.

As a journalist, I'm compelled to see the rational and legal side of things. I have to see the story within the story, so I have to go against the grain here.

Rick Ankiel Inks Last-Minute Deal With St. Louis Cardinals

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 10:08:52 -0500

Reruns of NBC's Saved By The Bell flashed through my head as the St. Louis Cardinals and outfielder Rick Ankiel came to terms on Thursday on a one-year, $2.825 million deal.

The deal comes just in time to avoid an arbitration hearing, which would have been St. Louis' first since 1999. Hours before the hearing was scheduled, Ankiel and the Cardinals made it happen.

The arbitration process can be something that could create tension and lingering unpleasant feelings, which is why the agreement to avoid the hearing was that much more mutually beneficial.

Ankiel's agent, Scott Boras, couldn't agree more.

"I think the arbitration process is designed to allow the parties to reach an amicable settlement," Boras said. "There are times you have to go, and I've done so. But whenever you can achieve a common objective, it [is beneficial]."

Locking up Ankiel for this year now gives St. Louis much more flexibility in the outfield. Ankiel's speed and power will help solidify the lineup, as Skip Schumaker has been rumored to being moving to second base as the Cardinals released Adam Kennedy last Monday.

General manager John Mozeliak knew of the importance in retaining Ankiel because of what he brings to the ball club.

"We were prepared to go [to a hearing]," Mozeliak said. "But I think when we looked at all the factors, we just thought it made the most sense for the player and the club to end up where we did. ... After I met with Scott last night, and thought through it again this morning, I felt like there was far more downside than upside [to a hearing]."

Also, with Troy Glaus slated to be on the shelf well into the 2009 season, the signing of Ankiel is that much more important. The Cardinals may have depth in the third base position, but nothing replaces major league experience, something Ankiel has been doing since 1997.

He's been a lifelong St. Louis Cardinal and, according to Scott Boras, Ankiel realizes the levity entailed with putting on the jersey of the bright red bird.

"I think everyone knows this is one of those cases where the player has been a lifetime Cardinal," Boras said. "And I think all of us know what it means to be a Cardinal. I can never predict how the winds of a situation will go for an ownership group and a franchise because there are so many things to think about. We're going to let the season play and I'm sure there will be dialogue."

All-Star slugger Ryan Ludwick remains the only unsigned player, as his arbitration hearing looms next week. With an asking price of $4.25 million from Ludwick and a counter offer of $2.8 million from St. Louis, both sides will need to hammer this out.

The gap between the two sides may be big, but I'm confident that they'll build a bridge and get this deal done. Ludwick may be getting up there in age, but his offensive production last year cannot be denied: .299 AVG, 37 HR, 113 RBI.

Quotes and information from MLB.com

Report: Alex Rodriguez Tested Positive for Steroids in 2003

Derek Coffelt — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 11:38:55 -0500

According to an SI.com article by Selena Roberts and David Epstein, Alex Rodriguez tested positive for two anabolic steroids during his MVP 2003 season.

The positive test was for a testosterone and anabolic steroid called Primobolan. It is an injected or orally administered drug that improves strength and cuts down on bulky muscle build up and maintains lean muscle.

His name appeared, along with over 100 other players, on MLB's 2003 survey according to the article. The list, which was sealed from all players and owners, was obviously leaked. The results of the tests and the names on the list were only supposed to be viewable by a small group of court members.

The source of the leak has not been identified, so Rodriguez's legal ramifications are in a holding pattern as of now. Similar to trying to find the light switch in a pitch black room, you know it's there but can't find it.

While no comment has been issued by Yankees GM Brian Cashman and no response from Rodriguez himself, the slugger has obviously taken a huge hit in his legacy in the game.

As a fan of the game of baseball, I have to say that while many of my favorite players are associated with this era, I'm still shocked by this news. There were whispers by Jose Canseco in his books and by rivals who hated the Yankees, but it was all hear say.

This isn't Barry Bonds we are talking about, it's one of the faces in Major League Baseball. Alex Rodriguez, whether vilified or adored, will now have to face a myriad of questions during spring training and throughout the season.

Whether the allegations prove to be true or not, it has been proven time and again that sports writers will not vote for players remotely accused of using performance-enhancing drugs into the Hall of Fame.

According to many sports writers and journalists, steroid usage had grown exponentially during the early 2000's. While Rodriguez and Bonds are now the most prominent faces attached to this steroid era, more names are certainly bound to be leaked.

As an avid fan of Cardinals nation, I have to say that I cannot put my own beloved Albert Pujols above suspicion. His breakout years put him squarely into the years where steroids where at their peak.

Maybe it's paranoia but I believe that no one player, no matter how prominent, is safe when it comes to suspicion about using steroids or HGH.

Can a (Chris) Carpenter Help Build a Playoff Berth For the St. Louis Cardinals?

Derek Coffelt — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 15:19:02 -0500

Standing an impressive 6'6" tall and weighing about 230 lbs., Chris Carpenter is as big as an NFL linebacker.

He's the 2005 Cy Young Award Winner and 2006 World Series Champion.

When Chris Carpenter is healthy, he certainly is one of baseball's top pitching performers. However, even prior to his career in St. Louis in 2003, this "carpenter" had a few loose nails.

He was acquired prior to the 2003 season, and was forced to sit out that year due to a torn labrum.

He finished 2004 with a 15-5 record, and a 3.46 ERA combined with 152 strikeouts. He helped the Redbirds win their first National League pennant since 1987, but then was forced to ride the pine in September with a nerve problem in his bicep.

He missed the 2004 postseason and it's widely viewed that St. Louis would have been more competitive in the World Series against the Boston Red Sox had he been healthy. He did however receive the NL Comeback Player of the Year award.

Determined to live up to his potential, Carpenter's 2005 season was the best of his career. Going 21-5 with a 2.83 ERA coupled with 213 strikeouts, he dominated throughout the year. Carpenter's on-field performance mirrored his imposing stature. The Cardinals ended up losing to the Houston Astros in the NLCS.

His 2006 campaign was not his best, but the Cardinals held onto their postseason dreams and barely made it into the playoffs.

Considered one of the most undeserving teams to even make the postseason with only 83 wins, the Redbirds shocked the world as they took home the World Series title from the heavily favored Detroit Tigers.

Carpenter's eight career postseason starts yielded a 5-1 record with a 2.53 ERA. Again, when he's healthy, he produces.

Carpenter's 2007 season marked a low point for the big man. After losing on Opening Day to the New York Mets, it was announced that he would need Tommy John surgery to trim bone spurs. After further complications with his elbow, he was officially put on the shelf for the year.

With all of this information compiled, Cardinals' nation has to wonder whether or not Carpenter can indeed come back from these injuries. History has shown that he has a decent track record of coming back the next year and dominating.

He did it in 2004 and then was injured again.

He came back in 2005 and had a career year.

He lasted through 2006 and helped contribute to a World Series title.

His 2007 and 2008 seasons were riddled with injuries.

Does this mean his 2009 campaign holds great things for him?

For St. Louis' sake, I hope it does.

Many baseball analysts agree that the key for the Cardinals' rotation, even their entire season, rests squarely on the health of Carpenter's shoulders.

With the recent injury to Troy Glaus, the Redbirds certainly have their work cut out for them.

Despite having significant depth at third base with prospects David Freese, Brett Wallace, and Allen Craig, they also have veterans eligible to take up the hot corner as well. Brendan Ryan, Brian Barden, and Joe Mather all have experience.

Righting a Wrong: Why Bob Gibson Deserves More Respect from Baseball Writers

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:45:06 -0500

After watching the recently added MLB Network and their "Hot Stove" report, it came to my attention that Bob Gibson only received 84 percent of the Hall of Fame votes in 1981.

I've been a long-time writer for the St. Louis Cardinals here on Bleacher Report. I joined this great site over nine months ago, and I'm here to tell you that this fact is an outrageous injustice. How can a player who singlehandedly created a rule change not receive more respect from the baseball writers?

With the recent inductions of Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice into Cooperstown, the "snubs" of whom were excluded has been of a hot debate recently. Henderson, who received nearly 95 percent of the vote just several days ago, is no doubt Hall of Fame material.

The debate here isn't whether or not Gibson or Henderson is more deserving to be in the Hall. The question is, how can there be such a disparity?

Gibson's accolades are extensive, but none more infamous than his 1968 season. He was dubbed "Pitcher of the Year" by managing a minuscule 1.12 ERA, a live-ball era record. He threw 13 shutouts and only allowed two earned runs in 92 straight innings, all while earning the National League MVP.

He carried his dominance into the postseason where he struck out 17 Detroit Tigers batters in Game One of the 1968 World Series and compiled 35 strikeouts total. Both are records that still stand today.

The complete dominance of his 1968 season is widely considered the reason why Major League Baseball decided to lower the mound by five inches in 1969. The change didn't affect Gibson's performance, as he still managed a 20-win season with a 2.18 ERA.

He was the second pitcher in MLB history to strike out 3,000 batters and the first to accomplish the feat in the National League. Finishing his career with over 250 victories posting 56 shutouts, and pitching nearly 4,000 innings, his career ERA was only 2.91.

Gibson was notorious in how he constantly pitched inside to batters. Hank Aaron, who coincidentally received nearly 98 percent of his Hall of Fame vote, had this sage advice for Dusty Baker.

"'Don't dig in against Bob Gibson; he'll knock you down. He'd knock down his own grandmother if she dared to challenge him. Don't stare at him, don't smile at him, don't talk to him. He doesn't like it. If you happen to hit a home run, don't run too slow, don't run too fast.

"'If you happen to want to celebrate, get in the tunnel first. And if he hits you, don't charge the mound, because he's a Gold Glove boxer.' I'm like, 'Damn, what about my 17-game hitting streak?' That was the night it ended."

This coming from one of the most iconic and legendary players in the game.

I know that not a single player has been unanimously selected into Hall of Fame; that is not what I'm advocating. The point here is that show that Gibson deserves more than only nine percent higher than the minimum.

Hall of Fame percentages can be argued night and day by the baseball writers and the fellow writers here on Bleacher Report. The numbers for Bob Gibson should speak for themselves, but the man changed the face of Major League pitching. He should have deserved better.

St. Louis Cardinals Let Another One Slip Through Their Fingers

Derek Coffelt — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 11:22:50 -0500

"And another one's gone, and another one's gone..and another one bites the dust.."

These familiar words seem to ring true when it comes to how the Cardinals have treated this past offseason. With the list of available closers already down to the bargain basement, that very list got even shorter Saturday.

Takashi Saito signed a one-year contract with a 2010 club option with the Boston Red Sox. Now, Saito was never a name I was high on, but as teams continue to bolster their bullpens with former closers one has to wonder just how much longer can St. Louis can wait.

With the way things are going, it would seem that anyone in the St. Louis area should try out for the closer's role at Busch Stadium. Open tryouts I say!

I was one of the first voices to scream my displeasure at the Redbirds for even thinking about signing a closer with critical health issues. Cardinals brass echoed my sentiments by refraining from inking a multi-year deal with such an injury risk. There must have been something left in the tank if the Red Sox deemed him worthy.

"He's done an amazing job since coming over from Japan three years ago," said General Manager Theo Epstein of the former Dodgers closer. "If you look at his performance and how he's gone about it the last three years, he's been just about as good as anyone in baseball. We were pleased to see him available in free agency, and we engaged and wanted to see if we could work out a contract that made sense for all the sides, and we did."

Saito had an obvious down year last year with his lingering elbow injury but, the man does have 88 career saves with a 1.95 ERA in 180 games. Epstein saw the upside in him, but St. Louis won't commit or take any risk it seems.

I know I'm talking about an organization that plays it conservatively, but there comes a time to know when to pull out all the stops. The money is there, lets use some of it.

St. Louis Cardinals' Search For A Closer Being Played Close To The Vest

Derek Coffelt — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:45:15 -0500

Every baseball team needs a flamethrower to nail the door shut in the ninth inning. Every team, that is, except the St. Louis Cardinals.

Leading the league in blown saves last season, the Redbirds set their sights on Brian Fuentes during the Winter Meetings in Las Vegas. However, they came out of those meetings without a single player signed.

This has been the general trend St. Louis has followed for at least the past three seasons. They end up going into the follow year with nearly the exact same roster. It was clear to manager Tony LaRussa that he wanted to solve the closer problem outside of the organization.

However, according to General Manager John Mozeliak, it looks as if the Redbirds are going to play the role close to the heart.

"I think I've made it very clear that I'm comfortable with what we have [in the ninth inning]," Mozeliak said. "We did say that if we could find somebody like [Brian] Fuentes, that we thought there was value and talent in return, we would try to do it. But that didn't happen. We're very comfortable going with what we have in-house."

Mozeliak didn't want to commit a multi-year deal to another pitcher after having locked up Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, and Kyle Lohse.

With such a glaring weakness staring them in the face, I don't see how the Cardinals can afford to just sit on their hands. A mediocre replacement in Trevor Hoffman has now just been inked by the Milwaukee Brewers, and St. Louis has already shot themselves in the foot by not actively pursuing Francisco Rodriguez and J.J. Putz, who were signed by the Mets.

Suggestions of moving veteran starters Chris Carpenter or Adam Wainwright into the closer's role have been thrown around, but that seems highly unlikely given that St. Louis is still in need of a fifth starting pitcher.

As it currently stands, the closer's role will most likely be a mixture of Chris Perez, Jason Motte, and Ryan Franklin. Despite LaRussa's reluctance in handing over the reigns to Perez or Motte, the "cold stove" for the Cardinals will most certainly come back to bite them.

The possibilities of obtaining a closer outside the organization are waning. With names such as Chad Cordero and Takashi Saito heading the list, the Redbirds brass are wise in their reluctance to sign either one of the injury-prone closers.

LaRussa did express consideration of Juan Cruz closing games for the Cardinals in 2009, but even that seems to be a lost cause. If Mozeliak has his way when it comes to the closing duties for the Redbirds in the upcoming season, it could be a very long 2009 for Cardinals Nation.

Atlanta Falcons Create Perfect Storm for Playoff Push

Derek Coffelt — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 04:46:46 -0500

They needed help. They got it on Sunday.

The Atlanta Falcons secured a Wild Card spot in the NFC playoffs with their 24-17 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. However, that was only one piece to the post-season puzzle.

They also needed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to lose as well, and lose they did. The San Diego Chargers marched into town and dominated an already trampled defense. They left Florida with a 41-24 win which put it over the top for Atlanta.

To add to an already jumbled playoff picture, the Dallas Cowboys also managed to lose to the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night. All of these outcomes helped contribute to the "perfect storm" for the Falcons, as they now look towards winning a championship.

Looking back at the preview I posted of this game several days ago, not many people voted for the Falcons to win this game. In fact, out of the 43 votes casted, nearly 75% thought that Minnesota would be victorious.

As the entire league continues to overlook and underestimate Atlanta, I will be looking forward to the Falcons making a run into the playoffs.

Matt Ryan continues to prove that he can defeat opponents with his arm. However, he has one of the best running backs in the league waiting in the backfield, Michael Turner.

I predicted Turner would have a productive day against Minnesota, and I think he produced enough to push past the top ranked rush defense. 70 yards with a touchdown isn't anything to brag about, but when it helps a team get into the playoffs, every yard counts.

I shouldn't have to tell you how much of a beast he has been this season, but I'll remind you of his numbers: 1,491 rushing yards on 351 carries with 16 touchdowns. The numbers also include seven 100-yard rushing games and his now infamous 220-yard domination over the Detroit Lions in the season opener.

Everyone knows how horrendous last year was for Atlanta, but what a difference a year can make.

Especially with a leading Rookie of the Year candidate at quarterback in Matt Ryan and a potential Coach of the Year in Mike Smith at the helm of it all.

Atlanta is now 10-5 in 2008. Not bad for a team that had preseason rankings of nearly dead last in the NFL in every statistical category.

Go Falcons, go.