Page Two
January 17, 2004
Alomar turns down Cardinals
agrees to terms with Tampa Bay
By Ray Mileur
After weeks of speculation that the Cardinals might entice 2nd baseman Roberto Alomar to come to St. Louis with a non-guaranteed contract, it all comes to an end today with Alomar agreeing to terms with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.
As we have reported since the Cardinals initial offer to the potential future Hall of Famer, we were highly skeptical of the Cardinals getting a non-guaranteed contract deal done for Alomar. Full Story
January 17, 2005
Marquis agrees to 1 yr deal
Right-hander avoids arbitration with one-year deal
By Ray Mileur
Jason Marquis, coming off a career-best 15 victories, agreed Monday to a $3 million, one-year contract.
Marquis, 26, was 15-7 with a 3.71 ERA last year. He had entered last season with 14 career victories and won none in 2003, when he spent a major portion of the year at Triple-A Richmond in the Braves' system. Full Story
January 17, 2005
Against all Odds - The Rick Ankiel Story
By Ray Mileur
Last Friday, Rick Ankiel filed for salary arbitration and coming up this Tuesday, the process will begin to determine how much Ankiel's services will cost the Cardinals in 2005.
The fact that Ankiel is still part of any plans of a major league baseball team, in itself, is a true testament of someone winning against all odds. Full Story
January 14, 2005
Ankiel: Coddling, Negotiating or BAU?
By Brian Walton
Anxious Cardinals fans have at least three recent factors by which to establish their impressions of Rick Ankiel’s readiness to pitch. Those include his recent elbow discomfort, his assigned role on the team and his recovery time.
Some wonder whether the team is coddling the pitcher, given his surgery was 18 months ago. Others fear a conspiracy, questioning whether the Cardinals are creating doubt about his role and/or his health to try to maintain contract negotiating leverage with Ankiel and his agent Scott Boras. Others assume this is just business as usual (BAU). Count me among the BAU camp. Full Story
January 10, 2005
The Great Debate
with Alan Schwarz
For the past two years, the scouting and statistics communities have feuded like members of rival families. Baseball lifers who evaluate players with their eyes are derided as over-the-hill beanbags who don’t understand the next frontier. Numbers-oriented people are cast as cold, computer-wielding propellerheads with no appreciation for scouting intangibles. Not surprisingly, the camps have grown so polarized that they have retreated to their respective bunkers rather than engage in open and intelligent debate.
January 12, 2005
Rocking with the Enemy…for a Good Cause
By Brian Walton
When a Beantown buddy of mine told me he had an extra ticket for a long sold-out rock concert on Sunday at a club in Boston, I barely feigned interest. He went on to explain the event included a baseball-themed benefit auction and was being held at an intimate 500-capacity hall where, in the past, bands like U2, The Police and Van Halen appeared. Still, he didn’t get a bite, even though I like rock-‘n-roll almost as much as baseball.
However, the lay of the land changed dramatically when he revealed that the show was none other than Hot Stove, Cool Music, the fifth annual charity event organized by ESPN’s Peter Gammons. The beneficiary of 100% of the proceeds is The Jimmy Fund, founded back in 1948 to support the fight against cancer through the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
That was all I needed to know. Whether or not it was right for a Cardinal backer to wade into the middle of Red Sox Nation, I was in. Full Story
January 13, 2005
Cards to Appear Ten Times on FOX
By Brian Walton
One of my long awaited signals of the upcoming season, sort of like the first robin of spring, has appeared with the first of the television schedules being published. The Big FOX Saturday lineup for 2005 is out and it holds good news for Cardinals fans the world over. Full Story
January 13, 2005
Cardinals Spring Training Radio Plans Enhanced
By Brian Walton
Ron Jacober, KMOX Sports Director, has confirmed their plans and that of the network for Cardinal spring training broadcasts are set and have been beefed up for 2005. Full Story
January 10, 2005
The St. Louis Cardinals 2004 Organization Report Card
By the staff of Baseball America, Will Lingo & Ray Mileur
It’s time for the 2004 St. Louis Cardinals Organization Annual Report Card.
In recent years Baseball America has rated and issued Organization Report Cards for all 30 Major League Baseball Teams and it’s time to take a look at the Cardinals Report Card and see how we stack up against the competition. Full Story
January 9, 2005
Mulder: Ready or Not?
By Brian Walton
I was catching up on some reading during this period of relative quiet in the world of baseball, when various thoughts began to come together about Mark Mulder and the weight of the 2005 expectations being placed upon him by the Cardinal Nation. Full Story
January 9, 2005
Mabry in the Ford Spot Light
with Don Ford
John Mabry was kind enough to sit down for an interview after signing autographs Sunday at John A. Logan College, in Carterville, Illinois. Here’s what the Cardinals slugger had to say.. Full Story
January 7, 2005
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Walt About Done
The P-D reports that GM Walt Jocketty sees the 2005 team as set once a left-handed hitting infielder is added.
The Goods on Grudz
Walt Jocketty signed new second baseman Mark Grudzielanek for a bargain rate of $1 million with additional incentives of $500,000 for 500 plate appearances, scaling up from 250 appearances. Again, from a budget perspective, this is a very good deal. However, in Grudz’ favor was an agreement that the Cards will not take him to arbitration after the season. This keeps his options wide open to cash in if he has a good 2005 season. Full Story
January 5, 2005
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Good News on Ankiel
MLB.com relays news from Cards trainer Barry Weinberg that Rick Ankiel’s elbow twinge was minor and that he’s already been cleared to resume throwing.
Sutter Does Well
Bruce Sutter continues to pick up votes, finishing this year third. His 66.7% is just 43 votes short of the Hall. That is the same number he picked up from last year. So, with four years more to make 75%, Sutter’s future chances look good.
January 3, 2005
Redbird Resolutions
By Karan Eschweiler
1. I will continue to be pleasant to the Nacho Nazi who works at the stadium. She is working hard and once upon a time, someone probably told her to be very careful how much of the “good stuff” she piled on a nacho supreme.
2. I will try my very best not to block anyone’s view during the Cardinal Cap Dance.
3. I will try not to make the usher from my section laugh uncontrollably at my girlfriends and me when we do a “Ladies Game”. It is important that he remain under control so that he can do his job in a responsible manner. Being entertained by 4 middle-aged women is certainly not in the job description. It is often difficult for us to behave when we get away from the 4 husbands and 10 kids we have among us. Full Story
January 3, 2005
Mabry is back for 05
By Don Ford
John Mabry was an important part of the St. Louis Cardinals run to the World Series in 2004. This off-season he was resigned by the Cardinals to come back for the 2005 campaign.
Mabry is a versatile player who can play Left Field, Right Field, First Base, and Third Base. Given Cardinals Manager Tony LaRussa’s appreciation for veteran players who can fill multiple roles, Mabry figures to be a big part of the Cardinals quest to defend their National League championship in 2005. Full Story
January 3, 2005
Alomar Alright
By Jerry Modene
There's been a lot of talk about how poor a player Roberto Alomar has become these past few years. I thought I'd take a bit of a look at that.
And as it turns out, Alomar *has* struggled, but really, only compared to the level of where he *used* to be. Full Story
December 31, 2004
Ankiel shutdown until spring training - inury reported as "not serious"
By Ray Mileur
Rick Ankiel has been shut down until Spring Training according to sources with what is being described as a sore elbow.
Ankiel who had experienced some discomfort in his left arm after his December 18th start, with the Gigantes del Carolina in the Puerto Rican Winter League. The promising left-hander and fan favorite was scheduled to make one more start when the Cardinals decided to bring him home as a precaution. Full Story
December 30, 2004
Roberto Alomar invited to Spring Training
By Ray Mileur
According to a report online at Newsday.com "Roberto Alomar, whose Hall of Fame career first sputtered with the Mets, has agreed on a one-year contract with the NL champion Cardinals, Newsday has learned. A person familiar with the situation said St. Louis manager Tony La Russa personally called to recruit Alomar, but the one-year deal, worth $500,000 plus incentives, is not guaranteed." Full Story
December 29, 2004
Age is a factor - Creaky Cards
By Brian Walton
With all the recent trades and signings, the Cardinals are getting longer in the tooth.The players on the current 40-man
roster, sitting at 36 in number, average 29.7 years of age. That is third highest in the game, after the Red Sox
(30.5) and the Yankees (30.6).
Looking at the projected 25-man roster based on what we know today, not surprisingly it gets worse, at 30.56 years of age on average. I assumed a roster of 12 pitchers, with the starting shortstop and second baseman open and generously allowing young Hector Luna to keep his backup role in the middle infield. Full Story
December 29, 2004
Guest column
Minor League Middle Infield Help?
By Jerry Modene
Decided to spend a little time looking at the minor-league FA list to see if we can't find any help there - you never
know what little gems might be out there; the minor-league FA list is how we got Kiko Calero, after all.
Here's the link to BA's list. Of course, some of these guys have been signed, but I'm too lazy right now to see which ones are no longer available. Baseball America Link
December 28, 2004
It's time to give Boyer his due
He stands tall and alone on the edge of Cooperstown.
Ken Boyer -- who starred with the St. Louis Cardinals from the mid '50s to the mid '60s -- won five Gold Gloves, earned six All-Star selections and led National League third basemen in double plays five times. At the plate, he hit 23 or more home runs and knocked in at least 90 runs in seven consecutive seasons. He was the N.L. Most Valuable Player in 1964, when the Cardinals won their first world championship in two decades. Full Story
December 28, 2004
The St. Louis Cardinals - Farm Report
The Cardinals have some nice pitching prospects at the top, but when you go down the list this organization as a whole is still terrible. Trading their top prospect and only real position prospect Daric Barton to Oakland does not help. Recently, the
team has taken a new approach in the draft and has hired on new talent evaluators. They hope it helps. Full Story
December 26, 2004
Campaigning for a Better 2005
By Brian Walton
“Are you better off today than you were four years ago?”
How often have we heard those words spoken by incumbent politicians stumping for another term in office? While that doesn’t apply directly to the 2005 Cardinals, let’s try this alteration on for size.
“Are the 2005 St. Louis Cardinals a better team than last year’s?” Full Story
December 23, 2004
Entering the Eckstein Era
By Brian Walton
David Eckstein has agreed to terms with the Cardinals on a three year contract,
apparently to be their new shortstop and lead-off hitter. Eckstein, who turns 30 in
January, was non-tendered by the Angels earlier this week after playing with
them since 2000. ESPN reports the deal is for $10.25 million guaranteed, with yearly salaries of $2.25M, $3.25M and $4.5M. Eckstein received a signing bonus of $250,000, as well. Full Story
December 18, 2004
Jim Edmonds: A Reflection On Loyalty In A World Gone Mad
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Ducan
When some of my fluff appears in The Birdhouse, I usually receive some interesting emails from readers. One from a Cardinal fan in Chicago made me do a 180 degree turn in my thinking on the Renteria situation and caused me to more appropriately reflect on the men – not the players, but the men – who still wear the birds-on-bat. Thank you, Craig. While others are thinking that the Cardinal cup is half empty, you made me remember that our cup still runneth over. Full Story
December 16, 2004
Maloney named as new field boss
By John Brayfield
Chris Maloney, former Minor League manager of the year named as the first manager of the Springfield Cardinals
The Springfield Cardnals announced on Wednesday that they have a new field boss, and the boss is glad to be home. Full Story
December 16, 2004
Renteria: Respected and Valued
By Brian Walton
Edgar Renteria’s own words are what he "most wanted was respect and to be valued as a player" (Boston Globe). After clearly thinking that they had met those requirements, the Cardinals ended up “surprised and disappointed” (Joe Strauss, Post-Dispatch) when Edgar made his decision to sign with Boston. Full Story
December 16, 2005
The Short(stop) Solution
By Brandon Morgan
There were reports circulating blogs and websites yesterday that the St. Louis Cardinals had signed SS Pokey Reese, those reports proved to be unfounded, but even so I would hardly consider Pokey Reese a replacement to Edgar Renteria. Reese works great as a defensive replacement in the late innings, and he has played 2nd, 3rd, and short in his career.
15 December 2004
Edgar Renteria's Departure
a Fact of Baseball Life
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
Like all of you, I rode the peaks and valleys of the cut-throat competition for Edgar Renteria’s services this week. Every plus, minus, increase, decrease, demand, and extension grabbed my attention like a pit bull on the jugular. He’s gone. He’s staying. He’s being shipped to Iraq. Well, now that the deed is done and Edgar is headed for Beantown, at least the suspense is over. The reality and dynamics of his departure are not, and we might as well get used to it. Full Story
December 15, 2004
Cardinals agree to terms with Diaz, Reyes
By Ray Mileur
Catcher Einar Diaz and the St. Louis Cardinals agreed to a $600,000, one-year contract today as expected. Full Story
December 11, 2004
December 15, 2004
Renteria is gone
By Ray Mileur
Edgar Renteria has accepted a 4 year contract from the Boston Red Sox for a reported $40 million dollars, on the condition that he passes a physical. Full Story
December 15, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Diaz
A preliminary Cards deal for catcher Einar Diaz for $600,000 is in place, says the AP. No formal announcement yet, though.
December 14, 2004 9pm CT
Union Jacked?
Renteria Under Pressure
By Brian Walton
I have been told that the Edgar Renteria camp has been fielding calls from or about at least four parties today – his agents, Cardinals management, Cardinals players and representatives from the MLBPA, the players’ union. As a result, he may be tied in knots.
Let’s look at what is or may be under discussion: Full Story
December 14, 2004
Life in the P.M. (Post Matheny) Era
By Don Ford
Now that Mike Matheny has been signed by the San Francisco Giants the Cardinals will have to move on with out the perennial gold glove catcher. Matheny won three gold glove awards in five seasons with St. Louis and was a model of consistency behind the plate. Matheny was a team leader and his presence will be missed but the Cards will make a change behind the plate in a cost cutting move designed to improve the team at other positions. Enter the duo of Yadier Molina and Einar Diaz.
Cardinal fans are already familiar with the 22-year-old Molina who showed promise for the Cardinals in 2004. Molina batted a very respectable .267 in 115 AB as a rookie last season. Defensively, Molina was solid and seemed to learn a lot from playing alongside Matheny. Throwing out base stealers was one of Molina’s strong points- he gunned down 47% of potential thieves. That percentage might go down a bit over a full season but it looks very good compared to Matheny’s percentages- 29% and 27% over the last two years.
ESPN.com’s Jerry Crasnick reports Einar Diaz is expected to sign a one-year, $600,000 deal with the Cardinals to be their backup catcher in 2005. Diaz is a nine year veteran with a .256 career batting average. He is described as an energetic player who is solid defensively. Diaz will most likely play a backup roll to Molina and should be able to step up and fill in if the second year catcher struggles.
Expect the Post Matheny era to include an increase in passed balls for the Cardinal pitching staff. Matheny’s textbook defense will be missed but the duo of Molina and Diaz should be able to carry the load in 2005.
December 14, 2004 4pm CT
Renteria Returning
By Brian Walton
From a source very familiar with the discussions between the Renteria camp and the Cardinals, I was told today that Edgar will be returning to the Cardinals in 2005. No doubt about it, book it, a sure thing.
As I had suspected all along, the deciding issue was not money. Even though the Red Sox “offer” last weekend proved to be false, or at best inflated and premature, there was no doubt that Detroit and perhaps other teams were prepared to pay more than the Cardinals. Full Story
December 14, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Renteria line drawn in sand
Good for Cards Chairman Bill DeWitt. According to Joe Strauss in the P-D, DeWitt denied Walt Jocketty’s request to up the four-year, $32 million bid to free agent shortstop Edgar Renteria. The question is how long the Cards will wait in their game of chicken with Renteria’s agents before they sign other players instead. I predict the waiting will continue until after Sunday night’s arbitration acceptance deadline and Monday’s non-tender deadline, at which point the full available player pool is known.
December 14, 2004
Einar Diaz as Backup Catcher?
Reported by Brian Walton
ESPN Insider’s Jerry Crasnick is reporting that catcher Einar Diaz is expected to sign a one-year, $600,000 contract to back up Yadier Molina behind the plate for the Cardinals.
If this comes to pass, it will be a very good signing for the Cardinals. Diaz is a former starter with Cleveland and Texas and spent the 2004 season as a reserve with Montreal. The 31 year-old, nine year veteran is a career .256 hitter and had a high of 56 RBI in his 437 at-bat 2001 season. The price is right and a deal also means that neither Cody McKay nor Mike Mahoney will be depended upon to be Molina’s 2005 insurance policy.
December 13, 2004
Cardinals Rule 5 Triple and Double-A Results
By Brian Walton
Following the major league phase of the Rule 5 draft on Monday, 51 players were selected in the Triple-A part ($12,500) of the draft and another dozen at the Double-A ($5,000) level. The Cardinals were busy, selecting three players while losing two.
The 21st pick in the Triple-A phase was 3rd baseman Antonio Granadillo, who was taken by the Red Sox off the Tennessee roster. Granadillo split the season between Johnson City and New Jersey, and hit .297 combined. Full Story
December 13, 2004
Johnson Lost in Rule 5
No Selections by Cardinals
By Brian Walton
Sadly, the Cardinals did not protect left-hander Tyler Johnson on their 40-man roster. As a result, he was selected by the Oakland A’s with the eighth pick in the major league phase of the Rule 5 draft on Monday.
December 13, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Walt extending for Edgar?
Joe Strauss of the P-D is expecting the Cardinals to either increase the value of the four-year deal offered to Edgar Renteria or add an option for a fifth year. But, one of Renteria’s two agents has already left the meetings, indicating that a deal is not near. Implied was the $38 million mark for four years or a fifth-year guarantee is what is desired. Peter Gammons identified Seattle and Detroit as other serious suitors, making bigger offers than St. Louis. The Angels are no longer interested. Lack of conclusion with the Renteria situation seems to be limiting other actions on the part of Jocketty. Full Story
December 13, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Renteria
ESPN’s Jayson Stark reports that Edgar’s agent, Jeff Lane, re-approached Walt Jocketty to tell him that Renteria was not close to signing with the Red Sox. This smells like a ploy to induce the Cards to increase their bid of four years, $32 million. Peter Gammons says it is only 50-50 that the Red Sox will have enough money left to offer Renteria four years, $38 million after paying for top priorities Pedro Martinez and Jason Varitek. Implied was that the big Red Sox offer has not yet been tendered. On Sunday, Lane met with the Detroit Tigers, with whom he had a “very impressive” meeting. Why the Tigers want another shortstop when they already have one seems odd, but not out of the question. Looks to me like Lane is trying his best to drive up the price for the Cardinals. Here’s hoping Walt holds firm.
Kline
The Toronto Sun calls Steve Kline the Blue Jays’ top priority after Corey Koskie and Matt Clement.
December 12, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Renteria
The Cards set their top amount they would pay. Unless Renteria is willing to take less than Boston’s offer to return to the Cardinals, he is gone. However, Peter Gammons says Saturday’s reports of Renteria’s imminent signing by Boston were premature. The Red Sox’ top priority is to ensure they have enough cash to re-sign Pedro Martinez and Jason Varitek. We should know more today.
Renteria’s agents, Barry Meister and Jeffrey Lane, are pushing hard to get the best deal possible for their client while Renteria is sitting at home in Colombia. While I do not know this, I have a feeling that when push comes to shove, Edgar will decide to stay in St. Louis. Maybe I am being too optimistic, but I still think it could happen.
December 12, 2004
Millwood - Examination
By Don Ford
Let’s examine what Kevin Millwood could bring to the table in St. Louis. Millwood is a 29-year-old right-hander with a 98-64 career record over eight seasons with the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies. He owns a 3.89 career ERA and throws a fastball in the 92-94 mph range. Millwood has been masterful at times in his career posting a 2.86 ERA with 205 strikeouts in 1999 and throwing a no-hitter against the San Francisco Giants in 2003.
The Cards have made it known that they are perusing a dominating power pitcher to round out the rotation and Millwood might be as close as they can get with a limited budget. Millwood has a good reputation for working with younger players and would be a welcome addition in the clubhouse. At age 29 he should still have plenty of life left in his arm and Dave Duncan might be able to bring out the best in the Millwood. Full Story
December 11, 2004, 4pm CT
ESPN’s Jayson Stark Checking in from Winter Meetings
Reported by Brian Walton
The Cardinals are back in on Randy Johnson. Yankees and D’backs haven’t spoken in 11 days now.
Edgar Renteria to Red Sox could happen very soon. Key indicator is that the Cards are going hard after Orlando Cabrera now.
Pedro Martinez is going back to Red Sox. Only issue now is final terms. Cards might have dabbled briefly, but not now. Red Sox have no competition.
December 11, 2004
Lowe Ball coming to St. Louis?
A first look at a potential Cardinal - maybe
By Ray Mileur
If our sources are correct it appears that the Cardinals may reach a deal with Derek Lowe the former All Star and 20 game winner free agent from the Boston Red Sox, before the end of the weekend.
He may not be the biggest name on the market, but he may be the hottest. He was the winner of the deciding games of the American League Division Series, American League Championship Series, and World Series this year. Look at these 2004 post season numbers; in four games and three starts Lowe was 3-0 with a Bob Gibson type ERA of 1.86 over 19 and a third innings.
Looking for a winner? The Cardinals may have found him here, maybe? Full Story
December 11, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Another Rough Ankiel Outing
Rick Ankiel seems to be alternating good and bad starts. Friday, he gave up three runs and six hits in 2-1/3 innings yesterday for Carolina of the Puerto Rican League. Ankiel struck out four but walked none. He uncorked a wild pitch and made an error. For the winter, Ankiel is now 1-1 with a 3.57 ERA. His strikeout to walk ratio is a strong 29/3 in 22-2/3 innings and his strikeout total leads the league. Battermate Yadier Molina is hitting .250.
Seabol Done
Third baseman Steve Seabol left the Mazatlan Deer of the Mexican Winter League after hitting just .140 in ten games. Seabol was added to the Cardinals’ 40-man roster last month.
Gall South of the Border
John Gall, playing left field, made his first appearance of the Mexican Winter League season on Friday for the Mazatlan Deer. He went 1-for-4. Just like last season, Gall joined the Deer mid-season as Seabol left.
Matheny in Demand
The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants have expressed interest in free agent catcher Mike Matheny.
December 11, 2004
Pedro or Not? – Try Not
Reported by Brian Walton
The Boston Herald quotes a “source close to” Pedro Martinez, who claimed the Cardinals placed a three-year deal on the table that Pedro would “seriously consider accepting”. Later, they backed off to say only that there is strong interest.
However, as usual, another source says just the opposite. Saturday morning, the Boston Globe quoted an unnamed Cardinals official as saying the team was “not pursuing” Martinez.
I am with the Globe, as we have believed all along here that Pedro will not be a Cardinal.
Renteria
The Globe goes on to note that the Sox are making a run at Edgar Renteria as Joe Strauss of the P-D reports Renteria’s demands are up to four years, $40 million. Jocketty mentioned a “soft deadline” to sign him, which is really no deadline at all.
Hudson
The Globe notes there are now eight teams after Tim Hudson. Jocketty’s comments in the P-D imply he is working harder on Renteria than getting a starting pitcher right now. Don’t wait too long, Walt!
Clement
Ken Rosenthal of The Sporting News suggests the Cards remain in the Matt Clement hunt along with four other teams.
Vazquez
Rosenthal and Strauss join those who have mentioned the idea of a Yankees, Diamondbacks, three-team deal for Randy Johnson that would put Javier Vazquez in St. Louis. No one seems to think this is high odds.
December 11, 2004
Cardinals make an offer for Pedro Martinez?
By Ray Mileur
We have been unable to confirm, but there are reports coming out very late last night, from the winter meetings in Anaheim, California that the Cardinals have made an offer for Pedro.
According to the Boston Herald, the Red Sox guaranteed the third year of their proposal to Pedro Martinez yesterday. The third year of this deal had been the hold up in getting it done and it was my opinion that the Red Sox had basically met Pedro's demand.
There have been some reports that haven't made it to any media sources that I'm aware of that the Cardinals made an offer for Martinez.
An offer from the Cardinals for Pedro, doesn't make sense to me, it appears that the Yankees have kept the lines of communications open with the Red Sox Superstar and what would the Cardinals be doing in the middle of a bidding war for Martinez.
The deal would be worth somewhere in the $38 million-$40 million range. This deal is out of our ballpark as far as I'm concern and if I was going to consider a deal for Martinez I don't think I would want to offer a 3 or 4 year deal for him. The good news is, the Boston Herald is also reporting that the Cardinals have yet to offer Martinez a contract, contradicting a report from earlier in the evening.
I tend to believe that these earlier reports were just mere speculation or a rumor that got blown out of proportion as reporters and web bloggers were looking for something to report on.
And perhaps I shouldn't say this, but if something was in the works, I find to hard to believe that the guys from the Post Dispatch, Joe Strauss, Jeff Gordon & Bernie Miklasz would not have been all over this, by now.
Nobody in the main stream media seems sure what's really going on with Pedro, yet I have maintained and the common belief is that he'll re-sign with Boston.
UPDATE - 0600 12/11 - related story links provided to us by JD Norton and L/Cpl Kays of the Marine Corps - Thanks for the tips.
By Michael Silverman
Saturday, December 11, 2004
By Michael Silverman and Jeff Horrigan
Saturday, December 11, 2004
December 10, 2004
Throw it at the Wall
By Brian Walton
Birdhouse contributing writer Joe Mammy gave me a clear opening the other day to slam ESPN’s Peter Gammons and I passed. Maybe a bad decision, as I can’t let the opportunity pass twice.
In his first report from the winter meetings, Gammons provided an update on Edgar Renteria, telling the world that Walt Jocketty has upped his offer to $36 million for four years. This was apparently in response to the Detroit Tigers having made that proposal first. Better yet, Boston supposedly also matched the earlier four years for $32 million bid. Full Story
December 10, 2004
Hudson Stealth Bid Lost
By Brian Walton
In his past dealings, Walt Jocketty has done best when flying under the radar. Now that the winter meetings have started, his cover has been blown. Not only does everyone know that he is after Oakland’s Tim Hudson, now other teams are able to make other possibly stronger bids.
Nothing more substantive is known now, but my gut tells me the odds decrease by the hour. Given the likely escalating price, that might be just fine.
December 9, 2004
Kent signs two-year deal with LA
Considered as an option for the Cardinals - no more
By Ray Mileur
Dodger general manager Paul DePodesta signed free agent second baseman Jeff Kent to a two-year deal worth an estimated $17 million on Thursday. Full Story
December 9, 2004
Extension True Measure of any Hudson Deal
By Brian Walton
Cardinal Nation is ablaze over trade rumors for Oakland A’s starter Tim Hudson, allegedly in return for Jason Marquis and Dan Haren. First, note that the deal is not done; just rumored. Others have different guesses on which players might be involved, but it’s the usual subjects – Ankiel, Barton and Calero. But, there is no doubt that Hudson would surely be that true #1 pitcher the team has longed for. Full Story
December 8, 2004
Why the Gas House Gang Aren’t Playing Today
By Brian Walton
Let’s face it. Those who seemingly want to see the entire 2004 Cardinals roster return are living in the past, just like those great Cardinals teams of the 1930’s. The reality of baseball is that players need to move on due to age, injury, ineffectiveness or yes, even salary considerations.
December 8, 2004
Jocketty's Magic Is In His Patience
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
Ever watch “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show”? Of course you did. Come on. Fess up. You liked it then and you still watch reruns on the Cartoon Channel when no one is looking. Remember in the opening of the cartoons when Bullwinkle tells Rocky “Watch me pull a rabbit out my hat.” Rocky wisely says “Oh, no, not again.” Bullwinkle pulls out a roaring lion instead of a meek bunny. That, my friends, was Walt Jocketty last year. Full Story
December 8, 2004
Woody Williams a Padre?
By Ray Mileur
The Cardinals failed to offer arbitration to Woody Williams yesterday, but it doesn't appear that Williams will be without a job very long.
The Padres are close to making a deal with Williams according to a report today from SanDiego.com. Williams said the Padres' improved infield defense and ability to contend for a playoff berth in 2005 make them a compelling option. Full Story
December 8, 2004
St. Louis Wrap UP
By Ray Mileur
It's over and yet it's just beginning. It's midnight and the arbitration deadline has come and gone and here is the St. Louis Cardinal Wrap Up from the Birdhouse Newscenter.
December 8, 2004
Tony Womack signs with the Yankees
By Ray Mileur
I was hoping that Womack would be signed to a deal by today, but I didn't want it to be with the Yankees.
Tony Womack came back out of nowhere and re-established himself as a leadoff threat with the Cardinals in 2004, helping lead the team back to a National League Championship and World Series appearance. Apparently the Yankees liked what they saw and you have to wonder what are the Cardinals thinking about? Full Story
December 8, 2004
Winter Meetings Suit Walt
By Brian Walton
Anyone who thinks the Cardinals are going to sign a big-name free agent pitcher such as Pedro Martinez or Eric Milton should think again. A review of Walt Jocketty’s recent history shows that he’ll make his big move via trade and more than likely, very soon. Full Story
December 7, 2004, 6:05pm CST
Cubs sign SS Garciaparra before deadline
Good news for Renteria fans
By Ray Mileur
The Chicago Cubs signed five-time All-Star shortstop Nomar Garciaparra to a one-year contract prior to Tuesday's midnight deadline for teams to offer their eligible players binding arbitration. Full Story
December 7, 2004, 7:30pm CST
Arbitraton Update
Reported by Brian Walton
Matheny – My sources lead me to believe that Mike Matheny will be offered arbitration and is pondering a two-year deal.
Renteria – Bernie Miklasz of the Post-Dispatch is hearing buzz that the Cardinals and Renteria may be close to a deal. As expected, he will most certainly be offered arbitration.
Williams – Woody Williams will not be offered arbitration, also as expected.
Kline – As already reported here, Steve Kline will not be offered arbitration.
December 7, 2004, 5:10 CST
Kline is gone
By Ray Mileur
Fan favorite, left handed reliever Steve Kline is gone. He got word earlier today from his agent that the Cardinals will not be offering him arbitration and as such Kline is no longer a member of the team. Full Story
December 7, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Ankiel Picks Up First P.R. Win
On Sunday, Rick Ankiel pitched a five-hit, seven-inning shutout for Carolina in the Puerto Rican league. The complete game win was in the first of a doubleheader. One one hand, Ankiel fanned seven and walked none and allowed just one extra base hit. On the other, he hit two more batters and uncorked a wild pitch. Full Story
December 7, 2004
Free Agent Signings
By Ray Mileur
A look at the 24 free agents who have signed, with name, position, former club if different, and contract. The contract information was obtained by The Associated Press from player and management sources.
We take a look at what deals the Cardinals could of or should of have made or at least considered to date.
December 7, 2004
Jocketty’s Arbitration Record
By Brian Walton
With the December 7 deadline for offering arbitration here, it is an especially-appropriate time to look back over recent arbitration history. As the table below shows, the number of players filing for arbitration has declined four consecutive seasons from a peak of 102 back in 2001.
An important design point of the arbitration process is to provide the time and opportunity for the two parties to come to agreement prior to the actual hearing. The numbers show that hearing avoidance is successful 89% of the time, which is pretty effective. Full Story at the Birdhouse Annex
December 7, 2004
Nice Guys Finish Last?
By Ray Mileur
Two months, after a season in which he tied a career high with 13 home runs and helped his team reach its first World Series in 17 years, St. Louis Cardinals outfielder and nice guy John Mabry and his fans felt sure he would be offered a raise.
"I don't think John Mabry's in any danger of not having a job for spring training," his agent, Dale Reichley, said bravely.
December 6, 2004
There’s No Place like Home Plate for the Holidays
By Karan Eschweiler
As much as I try to be a good Rams fan, and as much as I do like the time to focus on my daughters’ budding basketball careers, I so find myself craving a good Cardinal game.
I miss the rush to get home from work, change into my Cardinal red, meet up with my friends and get to the stadium to see some batting practice. I sometimes find myself craving nachos supreme and a cold frosty one in a plastic cup. I really miss the sounds of the game; the crack of the bat from a Pujols homerun, the pop of the glove as Rolen delivers another strong throw to first base, the roar of the crowd as Edmunds robs another opponent of a homerun. Full Story
December 6, 2004
Where We Are
By Joe Mammy
This isn’t a “I told you so” kind of thing.
It isn’t “I told you so” because I don’t think anyone who was being honest with themselves was really that surprised.
Except for Barry Bonds if you take him at his word. I’ve intentionally held off talking about this because it seems that I spend more time talking about Barry Bonds who I dislike than the Cardinals who actually showed up and did something extraordinary this season. I like to think of this season as the year of karma. Full Story
December 6, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
McRae New Hitting Coach
The Post-Dispatch reports that former Kansas City Royals and Tampa Bay Devil Rays manager Hal McRae will be named Cardinals hitting coach on Monday. McRae, 59, has also been a hitting coach with Montreal, Cincinnati and Philadelphia. Other candidates were Tommy Gregg, Steve Balboni, Gene Tenace, Will Clark and Mark McGwire. The latter two were not interested. Full Story
December 5, 2004
Inside the Randy Johnson Trade Talks - It's too late
By Ray Mileur
November 29, 2003 headlines across America read, Arizona Diamondback superstar starting pitcher Curt Schilling accepts a trade to Boston. In return for Schilling, the Diamondbacks received Casey Fossum, Brandon Lyon, minor league LHP Jorge de La Rosa and a player to be name later, reportedly Michael Goss, in return.
December 5, 2004
Matheny’s Last Stand?
By Brian Walton
Tuesday, December 7 is a very important day for major league free-agents such as Cardinals catcher Mike Matheny. If the player has not agreed to a new deal by then, the team must declare whether or not it will offer arbitration. To decide which way to go, the team will make a value assessment as to what the player might make for a one-year contract as decided by an arbitrator. Full Story
December 4, 2004
Tavarez to Start in D.R.
By Brian Walton
Cardinals right-handed pitcher Julian Tavarez has come to terms and is preparing to join Hector Luna on the Aguilas Cibaeñas of the Dominican Republic League. In fact, Tavarez has some name-brand company. Starters Claudio Vargas of Washington and free-agent Jose Lima will join the team this week. Lima came via a trade with the Escogido Lions for outfielder Raul Mondesi. Full Story
December 3, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Strauss Says Hudson
Joe Strauss of the P-D says that Walt Jocketty has approached Oakland about Tim Hudson. He is allegedly willing to part with Jeff Suppan and catcher Daric Barton, but not Rick Ankiel or Dan Haren. Interesting, since the Oakland system is full of catching prospects and they just traded for Jason Kendall. I wouldn’t think Barton would be high on their list, anyway. Strauss noted that Yadier Molina has “attracted the Diamondbacks’ attention”.
December 3, 2004
Black Friday
By "The Skinner"
The leaks spilling out of the bay area the last few days are the last thing baseball needs right now. After such a great season, it's really sad to see so many of our 'stars' finally admitting what everyone knew. If only they had been more forthcoming when the mess hit the fan. If only they would tell the truth now. Full Story
December 3, 2004
The Votes are In!
By Brian Walton
Now that the December 1 deadline has passed and all entries have been received, it is time to report back on our Cardinals Free Agent Forecasting Contest. Some very interesting strategies have been employed, along with what seems to be some really good guesses and some real stretches added in for good measure. Full Story
December 3, 2004
The Pitch on Pitching
By Brian Walton
It’s time to report some more rumors and some speculation about Cardinals pitching, 2005 style.
Zito Offer Made
I have it from a very good source that the Cardinals recently made a firm proposal to the Oakland A’s for Barry Zito offering a package including Jason Marquis.
However, at this point, it is unclear whether the A’s want to move another starter, now that they dumped Mark Redman’s contract (and reliever Arthur Rhodes’ too) on the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Jason Kendall deal. Yet, the inclusion of Marquis would afford the A’s a less-expensive rotation replacement for Zito. Full Story
December 3, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Pujols Better Be Better
According to MLB.com, Albert Pujols’ plantar faciitis in his heel has been treated by high frequency soundwaves. As a result, surgery may be unnecessary. I sure hope so, otherwise the start of the season would seem to be a risk despite what the experts say. Full Story
2 December 2004
Springfield Cardinals vs St. Louis Cardinals
By John Brayfield
Things just keep getting better and better for the Springfield Cardinals' fans, and they haven't even played their first game yet. They also made this year's Christmas shopping just a little easier. Full Story
2 December 2004
Cards to offer fans early opportunity to buy tickets for historic final season at Busch Stadium
New four-game ticket packs provide chance to see Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, final home opener and Busch Stadium finale; 2005 ticket packs and season ticket plans to go on sale Dec. 11
ST. LOUIS -- In anticipation of the high demand for tickets during the upcoming 2005 farewell season at Busch Stadium, the St. Louis Cardinals announced today that they will begin selling special four-game ticket packs to provide fans an advanced opportunity to purchase discounted tickets to a variety of key games including home dates with the Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, home opener and Busch Stadium finale.
December 1, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Unit Owns the Central
Unit Trade for Three Pitchers Won’t Go Away
The same old discredited rumor rehashed one more time, this time by MLB.com.
November 29, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Neither Cabrera nor Renteria Likely in Beantown
The Boston Herald reports that the Red Sox will not entertain a three-year or longer deal for shortstop Orlando Cabrera or any other shortstop, for that matter. There is still a chance that Cabrera will be tendered, with the Sox willing to risk a one-year deal decided by an arbitrator. The paper calls a long-term deal like Cabrera wants “next to impossible to imagine”. Instead, the team is expected to go after a veteran stopgap like Jose Valentin or Barry Larkin until top prospect Hanley Ramirez is ready. This means Edgar Renteria, with similar demands as Cabrera, will clearly not be in the Sox plans. However, it does enhance Cabrera’s viability as a replacement if Edgar is not signable by St. Louis. Full Story
November 29, 2004
La Russa Return Stuck on Pitching?
By Brian Walton
A source very close to the Cardinals has reported an interesting rumor. The prevailing feeling among some insiders is that part of the reason that Tony La Russa may not have come to terms on his expected contract extension is due to the ongoing uncertainty about the make-up of the 2005 pitching rotation. Full Story
November 28, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Cards Measure up Well
The San Diego Union-Tribune uses the Cardinals as a yardstick to measure the Padres against and needless to say, the Cards come out on top. Here’s a sample. “Yet the guiding philosophy and payroll disparity between the two midmarket ballclubs suggests more dramatic differences. It suggests the Cardinals are bold where the Padres are timid. It suggests that the Cardinals are chasing championships while the Padres are hoarding profits.” A good read to remind us to be thankful as Cardinals fans. Full Story
November 27, 2004
Veteran Leadership Can be Overrated
By Brian Walton
Recently, I’ve read and heard a number of strong concerns, taking exception to comments similar to the ones I expressed the other day in my column elsewhere on this page entitled “So Long to Matheny”. Self-assigned monitors of team leadership are appalled that people like me are not up in arms, organizing letter-writing campaigns and protest marches targeted at 250 Stadium Plaza. Full Story
November 27, 2004
Leadership - it's the key to success
or Show me some Love
By Ray Mileur
In response to Brian Walton's article, Veteran Leadership Can Be Overrated, I'm compelled to respond, in defense of Leadership and it's role in the success of the 2004 St. Louis Cardinals.
The key to success in any organization lies in it's leadership. This is especially true on a baseball team that faces a grueling 162 game schedule each season, even before it reaches the playoffs. Full Story
November 26, 2004
Second Baseman from the Land of the Rising Sun
By Brian Walton
It’s that dead period when everyone is waiting to see which players are non-tendered on December 7. The top free agents haven’t seen their best deals yet and are in no hurry to act. The hot stove rumor mill percolates along with the latest news and if there is none, no problem. With a few keystrokes, a whole new set of possibilities are presented to the eager baseball world as if they are fact.
26 November 2004
Baseball As America
December 2004 to April 2005
by Ray Mileur
Counting the days to spring training? The days between the last out of the World Series and the pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training is torturous for Cardinal Fans, I know because I are one. But there is relief in site, of course The Birdhouse here is busy working for you, 365 days a year but there is help on another front from the Missouri History Museum in St. Louis. The museum is welcoming an exhibition this winter that will ease your pain and cure your cabin fever. Full Story
November 26, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Leiter Fluid
The Newark-Star Ledger reported that Mets free-agent pitcher Al Leiter, who already has a $7 million one-year deal from the Florida Marlins on the table, also has the Cardinals’ attention. “…Cardinals are said to be very interested, but Leiter is not keen on leaving the East Coast." In my opinion, the 39-year-old lefty Leiter is a pricey option and is obviously late in his career. Full Story
November 25, 2004
Korean Slugger Shim Looking for a Home
By Brian Walton
Roughly a third of all major league players hail from outside the United States and the number is growing. Look at some of the places MLB players call home: Aruba, Australia, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Curacao, the Dominican Republic, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Taiwan and Venezuela. Speaking of Venezuela, under VP Jeff Luhnow’s direction, the Cardinals are investing in a developmental league there as they dip their toe back into the Caribbean waters. Full Story
From the Archives
By Ray Mileur
November 24, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 23, 2004
by Joan M. Thomas
November 23, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 22, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
November 21, 2004
By Joe Mammy
November 21, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 21, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 21, 2004
by LEON
November 20, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 20, 2004
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
November 20, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 20, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 18, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 17, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 17, 2004
by Joe Mammy - joe@joe-mammy.com
November 15, 2004
By Ray Mileur
November 15, 2004
Cardinals finish in 3rd, 4th & 5th place
by Ray Mileur
November 15, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 14, 2004
Cardinals' closer to have surgery this week - Will he be ready to start the season?
By Ray Mileur
November 12, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 11, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 11, 2004
By Brian Walton from The Birdhouse Annex
November 10, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 10, 2004
by Ryan Pastrovich
November 10, 2004
by John Brayfield
November 7, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 7, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 6, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 6, 2004
with Ray Mileur
November 6, 2004
- Exclusive Interview with Cardinals Relief Prospect Carmen Cali
- Six Year Free Agents Made Simple(r?)
- Three-to-Six Year Free Agents Made Simple(r?) (with Jerry Modene)
- State of the Cardinals (with Joe Mammy)
- Walton’s Wanderings (Monday and Wednesday Editions)
November 6, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 5, 2004
by Ray Mileur
November 5, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 5, 2004
Cardinals exercise option on Carpenter
reported by Ray Mileur
November 4, 2004
by Ray Mileur
November 4, 2004
with Brian Walton
November 3, 2004
By Brian Walton
November 2, 2004
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 30, 2004
By Ray Mileur
October 30, 2004
By Paul Brown
October 28, 2004
By Karan Eschweiler
October 28, 2004
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 28, 2004
By Mike Roberts
October 27, 2004
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 27, 2004
With Brian Walton
October 27, 2004
With Ray Mileur
October 25, 2004
By Joe Mammy
October 25, 2004
By Brian Walton
October 25, 2004
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 25, 2004
Nathanial Skinner - We Can't Get Rid of This Guy
October 25, 2004
By Brian Walton
October 25, 2004
By Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 25, 2004
Nathanial Skinner - We Can't Get Rid of This Guy
October 26, 2004
By Brian Walton
October 26, 2004
with Ray Mileur
October 24, 2004
By Brian Walton
October 24, 2004
with Ray Mileur
October 24, 2004
Reported by Brian Walton
October 23, 2004
Reported by Brian Walton
23 Octoober 2004
by an outraged Ray Mileur
October 23, 2004
By Brian Walton
23 October 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 23, 2004
Reported by Brian Walton
October 23, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 23, 2004
Reported by Brian Walton
October 23, 2004
by Ray Mileur
22 October 2004
by Paul Brown
October 22, 2004
Reported by Brian Walton
October 22, 2004
By Karan Eschweiler
October 22, 2004
October 22, 2004
a look back from the Sporting News archives
October 22, 2004
By Brian Walton
October 21, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 21, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 21, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
Thursday, October 21, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 22, 2004
By Brian Walton
October 21, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 21, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 21, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
Thursday, October 21, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 20, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 20, 2004
Bang for Buck Not There
By Brian Walton
October 20, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 18, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 19, 2004
A Traditionalist’s Take - By Brian Walton
October 18, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 14, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 12, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 11, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 11, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 11, 2004
October 11, 2004
by Ray Mileur
October 10, 2004
by Nathanial Skinner
October 10, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 10, 2004
By Paul Brown
October 7, 2004
reported by Ray Mileur
October 7, 2004
by Michael Roberts
October 7, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 7, 2004
By Brian Walton with Jerry Modene
October 7, 2004
By Karan Eschweiler
October 7, 2004
by Ryan Pastrovich
October 6, 2004
by Joe Mammy
October 6, 2004
October 5, 2004
by Ryan Pastrovich
October 4, 2004
by Rex "the Wonder Dog" Duncan
October 4, 2004
by Nathanial Skinner
October 3, 2004
by Pete Khazen
October 3, 2004
with Ray Mileur
October 2, 2004
by Brian Walton
October 2, 2004
by Bill McCurdy
October 1, 2004
with Ray Mileur
October 1, 2004
by Ray Mileur
September 30, 2004
by Ben Jacobs
September 30, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog' Duncan
September 29, 2004
By Brian Walton
September 28, 2004
by Michael Roberts
September 27, 2004
by Brian Walton
September 26, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
September 25, 2004
Joe Mammy
September 25, 2004
By Brian Walton and Jerry Modene
September 24, 2004
by Brian Walton
September 24, 2004
September 23, 2004
By Brian Walton
September 23, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
September 22, 2004
By Brian Walton
September 20, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
September 20, 2004
By Pete Khazen
September 20, 2004
By Brian Walton
September 19, 2004
By Pete Khazen
September 19, 2004
By Karan Eschweiler
September 17, 2004
By Bill McCurdy
September 17, 2004
by Rex Duncan
September 16, 2004
By Ryan Pastrovich
September 15, 2004
by Joe Mammy
September 15, 2004
By Jerry Modene
September 15, 2004
By Brian Walton
September 14, 2004
September 14, 2004
by Rex "The Wonder Dog" Duncan
September 13, 2004
By Jerry Modene
September 13, 2004
by Joe Mammy
September 11, 2004
by R. Hudolin
September 10, 2004
by Pete Khazen
September 8, 2004
by Brian Walton
September 6, 2004
Karan Eschweiler
September 3, 2004
By Jerry Modine
