Mike Matheny: Former Brewer to Be Named New St. Louis Cardinals Manager

Several media sources, including the Chicago Tribune, are reporting that the St Louis Cardinals have scheduled a news conference to name Mike Matheny as the team's new manager, replacing Tony La Russa.

It is not yet known what effect his signing will have upon the effort to re-sign marquee free agent Albert Pujols.

Matheny, a veteran of 13 Major League seasons, played for four teams in his career: the Milwaukee Brewers from 1994-1998, Toronto Blue Jays in 1999, St. Louis Cardinals from 2000-2004 and San Francisco Giants from 2005 until his retirement in 2007.

Known as "the toughest man alive" for his ability to take a beating behind the plate, that toughness ultimately forced Matheny to retire due to post-concussion syndrome.

After taking a number of foul balls off the face mask while playing for the Giants, Matheny went on the disabled list with a concussion. He never returned.

Matheny is one of only three catchers to play over 100 games without an error and is thought of as one of the best defensive catchers of his generation.

Matheny and his wife Kristen have five children: Katie, Tate, Luke, Jacob and Blaise.