Winnable and Losable

Or in this case not Losable and Losable.

Saturday's game was much closer than it should have been. The Astros had no business bringing the tying run to the plate after the 7 run inning by the Cards. Sunday's game was also not what it should have been. The Cardinals had NO business whatsoever in this game.

Sat:
McC's stat line was not pretty. But upon closer inspection the hits the Astros got against him had eyes. They were poorly hit balls that just managed to move runners onto base. Some accused him of not hitting his spots...I suggest otherwise. Rewatching that inning shows the Astros swinging at pitches out of the zone and hitting the ball in such a way that would normally generate outs. Just simple bad luck. This game showed the power of the homerun to generate runs without the need to string together as many hits. The longball CAN be so underrated. The Astros brought up the tying run later in the game--but the tying run was at the plate only because of these weak hits and the Crawford Cheap Seats. This game was not what I would call Losable

Sun:
The Cardinals were stymied by one Wandy Rodriguez...ahem. That was until the game got handed to them with HBP's, wildpitches, walks, and one well timed hit. They should have lost this game hands down. Instead the Cardinals steal one. Outhit 4 to 9 is not a recipe for success. This game shouldn't have been winnable, instead the Cards get the best of both worlds and take 2 at the worst stadium ever.

-CJ

Broken bones and broken hearts.......

Yet another tough loss to those cursed Astros tonight. It's tough to blame any one person for this one, but the offense does seem to the scuffling the last week or so. Injuries haven't helped (Ankeil, Pujols, ect.), but more consistent production is needed from the "big bats" other than Albert. Ludwick has definitely cooled off. Glaus has finally hit a few HRs, but still hasn't hit well enought to bat clean-up on a nightly basis. Certainly Mather has brought a spark, but I think the primary problem is in the middle infield. Izturis has hit better than I expected, but that's because I expected nothing. Miles has been OK when he has played, but not great. Kennedy - terrible. John talked earlier about trading some young talent. We seem to have a glut of young OFs, so I would start there, and look for an upgrade at either SS or 2B. I'm not sure who that would be exactly at this time, but I'm just thinking that's the way to go. I think we have enough pitching, and hopefully, we'll get some injured guys back to bolster the staff around the trading deadline without actually trading for someone. I'd love to trade Duncan and Reyes, but in order to get something worthwhile.....you have to give something in return, and I'm not sure they qualify. IF Ludwick can continue to put up good numbers, he's the guy I'd dangle. Mather, Ankiel and Rasmus will be the full-time OF next year if not sooner anyway I think.

Well, enough ranting about the Cardinals....how about an old story about my dear friend John. Hopefully he won't mind. His story of breaking his toe reminded me of this. When we were like 10 or 11 we were playing football in his backyard with several other guys. John was playing really well as a receiver and a corner back throughout the game. John tried to intercept a pass, which I think would've been his second of the game. He succeeded or at least deflected it I think, but he injured his finger in the process. He tried to keep playing, but it swelled up really big. Since it was a very hard thrown ball, we all thought it was broken, so we went inside to tell his parents. His dad didn't believe us and thought it was just jammed. He pulled on the finger to pop it back out for like three minutes. How John didn't cry out in complete pain I'll never know. Turns out, it was DEFINITELY broken. Moral of the story: John - go get your toe looked at, but not by your dad.

That was Odd

Was hoping that we might make up more than just a half game on the Cubs yesterday. It was not to be, as the double bill was split. A few thoughts:

-AP seems to be rather okay. Glad to see him PHing.
-Worrell and Parisi got in on the RBI's...ooookay. Too bad Parisi gave up too many. He'll prolly get moved to the pen...could he be demoted?
-Mather does it all...again. I enjoy those rare moments where am I so right.
-PreDraft MLB.com predicted that Brett Wallace would probably only play 1st base in the majors. Think that's what the Cards have in mind? Ha!
-I think I broke my toe on the stairs yesterday. It wasn't one of my more graceful moments in my life. I'm still amazed how I did it. I'm still unsure how I did it. I wonder if I should have it looked at. What does this have to do with the Cardinals? The way I fell reminded me of Chris Duncan playing the OF. That was offsides now wasn't it?

-CJ

Random Thoughts

Had a friend from the States come visit me this weekend. So, I didn't have tons of time to post. Splitting versus the Pirates is never acceptable in my book. Those are series you have to win. Last night was just another winnable game. However, 4 runs is just below the league average, so you're not going to take home too many W's with that. I really enjoyed how the Cardinals wasted an option on Jimenez--not (although it may never be a problem), but it's a sign that they brought up the wrong man. Hopefully, at least they have corrected the situation. All griping aside, I am loving the young team, and I am loving seeing the farm system FINALLY pay off. The Cardinals had been riding the strength of Jocketty's horsetrading skills for too long. After cooling off a bit, it was good to see Lud's get in on the RBI column--even in the loss. Really likin' the Mather call up. Lately, the question seems to be, should we deal young talent for contending this year? I think we'll have to part with some, but not the crown jewels. Soooooo...What do you think? If you had to place odds on some of the Cardinals/Redbirds moving...what would you give:

Duncan?
Reyes?
Schumaker?
Mather?
Rasmus?
Barton?
Ankiel?
Ryan?
and just for fun
Pujols?

-CJ

I hope Duncan gets his swing back, but.........

Seriously, did you see that catch Mather made? I know he is not known for his defense usually, but there is no way Duncan comes even close to a ball hit that sharply. John called for this move in the blog a while ago I think, and I definitely believe it was a good move. They can now rotate two RH and two LH hitters in the outfield with Barton playing the PR, defensive sub role he is better suited for. The team is playing pretty well right now, but if things can improve, it is on the offensive end. I'd personally like to see Brendan Ryan play instead of Izturis more. Izturis has hit better recently, but for a while he was doing worse than the pitchers and actually DESERVED to bat ninth. He is a good defensive player, but so is Ryan. I really think LaRussa likes Ryan on the bench because he can play any infield position. That's all well and good, but I say let your best players play every day. I've never been a big platoon guy, but maybe I shouldn't be complaining. We are ten games over .500, so LaRussa must be doing something right.

Ahhhh...That's Better

A 6-1 victory over the Astros after an 8-2 loss will always make you feel a bit better. The Cardinals took an early lead based mainly on mistakes. I would have rather seen them get a few more runs in the first with 3 on and 0 out. But I guess I'm just greedy. It didn't matter as WW was up to the task. 3 hits in 8 ip, 8k's, and 1 er. Niiiice. This is the WW we all love and EXPECT now. Ankiel had a very nice catch--and that makes up for that horrible throw from throw from yesterday. Now about Pujols tryin' to take 2nd on the Luds flyout to right. Now I know that everyone loves him and he does seem to make quite a few errors on the basepaths. But if we are going to praise him when he takes the chance and it pays off we can't jump all over him when it doesn't pay off. Pence has got a noodle (see him in action here). Luds is out. It could have made something happen. The only real complaint I have is that he didn't stay on the bag. Ehh "we'll call it a draw."

With the Cubs pulling "W's" faster than disenfranchised republicans and their bumper stickers, we need to win games against pitchers like Wandy. With the likes of Oswalt comin' up the hill today, we'll need another strong offensive performance and the good Lohse to show up. Although, Oswalt has been less than stellar this year... It's still Oswalt. That could just mean he's due.

-CJ

I'm a sore loser today.

Though I'm still a true cardinal and my least favorite team is the Cubs, living in Houston has made be REALLY hate the Astros, so I'm extra angry after last night's loss. I know we have a tough time against them at their place (because they can cheat there), but I expect us to do better at home. Looper has been the anti-Wainwright so far this year. Good record, but horrible ERA, WHIP and BAA. If Mulder can (by some miracle) come back and rejoin the rotation, Looper may be the guy we should send back to the bullpen, and not Wellenmeyer. On the plus side, the bullpen again pitched great and Albert went deep. Hopefully, that means he is mentally recovered from that disturbing game he had against the Padres last week. Anyway, they had better win today.......or I don't know what I'll do....but it won't be pretty.

RiSP, Clutch, Luck, and Production

As a case study, last night's game was fascinating. The Cardinals got out hit 7 hits to 4. The Cardinals only had 6 AB's turn into base-runners. This is usually not a recipe for success. 4 hits in one game. How many times do you think that will garner you a win? If you said 19 times outta 20, I'd take the over.

"Only 4 LOB!" the masses proclaim. "OooooOOOooo Only 1 Team LoB," the peons announce. This is how numbers are deceiving. Why so? Because, as we have mentioned before, OBP means men on base to get stranded. What does that leave us?

It leaves us with RiSP/Clutch strength or luck.

Does a good team just try to produce hits (preferably extra base hits) in such quantity that hopefully due to the mass production of said hits some will be close enough in proximity that a runner will eventually reach the fourth base?
OR
Does a good team intentionally rise up and are able to string together hits when the pressure is on? Teams like this are full of players who are "clutch" and statistically do better with RiSP?

Ask a stat junkie if clutchness exists and you'll get a clear and to the point: "No, way."

Ask someone who has played ball before or who is currently playing ball and you're sure to get: "Absolutely."

Does Pujols bat 3rd because he just gets hits more often than others and thus since people with high OBP are ahead of him he will improve the proximity hits? Or does Pujols bat 3rd because when the pressure is on he performs stronger than others?

The answer is in the middle. It always cracks me up to read those Baseball Prospectus-esque articles that compare how a player does normally versus how they do "in the clutch" and they say, "The stats show that he doesn't do any better with RiSP." Of course not! But the question we should be asking is: "Does he do worse?" If someone maintains their Avg or Slugging % with RiSP it means that all the heightened psychology of the situation does not get to them as badly as others. Why would we expect someone to do better?! What a weird suggestion. Yet, to say that the law of averages have nothing to do with it is just as weird.

Last night's game told us 1 of the following: 1) the pressure did not get to the Cards' bats during the one inning and they got lucky to gets the hits in such close proximity or 2) the pressure got to Penny as he gave up another big inning (see his recent previous outings). The truth is probably somewhere in the middle.

Either way, I'd like to see more hit and runs, speed on the base-paths, and more HR's. A team needs to be less reliant upon luck or pressure performance. Which has made me completely rethink my position on Brian Barton (see TLR's most recent comments). That kid is needed for his speed. If we brought up Mather he'd just park it on the bench and afaik he isn't as fast as Barton. Barton's speed should be used more often to give folks the chance for more RBIs. It also strengthens my opinion that a power 2B or SS should be added. Where we are going to get that other one is another story...

So what am I getting at with all this? The Cardinals are going to get some nights like last night where they had no business winning the game (from an offensive standpoint) but pull it out after all.

the weight is on Wainwright

Sorry for the grammar errors in the last post. There will be more most likely, but I'll try to at least proof read before I hit "submit" in the future. Anyway, I wanted to post how Adam Wainwright had pitched us to another win tonight, but the game is delayed currently with one out in the bottom of the ninth and I want to go to sleep (how is it raining in LA hard enough to delay the game?). I'll just say what I want to say and ASSUME Franklin saves the game. Wainwright should be, by all rights, only our #3 starter behind Mulder and Carpenter, but instead, he's the ace. And he's pitched like it. That's pretty remarkable for a guy in only his second year starting in the big leagues. Granted, he's seen some pressure closing games in the playoffs, but starting is a different ball game. This year, however, he has continually gone deep into games, saving the bullpen and giving us a chance to win. His W-L record isn't stellar, but his ERA and innings pitched count are. The other guys seem to be following his lead as well. I know expectations aren't as high for the other guys, but that makes Wainwright's performances that much better in my opinion. He HAS to be the man for us to contend, and so far, he's lived-up to that billing. Oh yeah, and Ludwick hit another (hopefully) game winning HR tonight. Sick.


Trey

I bleed red

Seriously, that's what happens when the skin is broken and blood is exposed to oxygen. In all seriousness, I am a huge cardinal's fan and have been basically since I can remember thinking at all. I want to thank John for letting contribute to this blog. It's going to be great fun for me to talk baseball with him again. Sadly, I have a lot of venting to do because I've stuck in Houston the last four years. That's right, surrounded by astros' fans and going to games in that mockery of a ballpark known as Minute Maid. I wore my cardinal's hat every day to class though and endured the abuse. Oh, and I was watch game 5 of the 2005 NLCS with some "friends" and got whoop and holler and yell "in your face" when Pujols hit that memorable bomb off Lidge. Of course, we lost the next game and the series, but it was a sign of good things to come in 2006 at least. Speaking of good things, watching the Cardinals this year has surprisingly been (usually) one of them. I'm back in Oklahoma now, and more of my own kind are here, so I feel liberated and optomistic. I'll admit, I wasn't that way in spring training. Few proven bats in the lineup and even less in the rotation. So, though there is a long way to go, I'll be hopefull that I'll do less of the venting I promised earlier and more praising the way this team has defied the odds and played winning baseball.


Trey

It's Nice to Share...

So my mother says. So...here you go, Mom. In all seriousness, I'd like to introduce a new contributor to the Cardinal Virtue. Growing up I had some really close friends. Trey Paschal was one of the closest--if not the closest. At that age where baseball becomes huge, Trey was a Cardinal fan before me. And is one of the main reasons why I became a Cardinal fan in the first place. We cheered for McGhee, Smith, Coleman, Clark, Herr, Pena, Pendleton, Oquendo, Worrell, Tudor, I could go on...

I wouldn't want to share my blog with anyone. In fact, Trey would probably be the only exception. However, when I asked him if he blogged, he knew exactly what I was thinking. Trey knows Cardinals. Knows baseball.

Here we are. Two friends. One ocean and several years separating us. I'm glad Trey will be contributing to this blog and I'm looking forward to his posts and insights!

Welcome, Trey!

-CJ

Classy = Pujols

I don't have much time today. I am under the gun with a paper due tomorrow and I can't believe I'm going to even take time out today to see the Irish Premier of Indiana Jones. So...I'll be brief.

Let me simply start by saying that my best wishes go out to Chris Young and Josh Bard. I hope they recover quickly. You hate to see a team get injuries especially when they're down on their luck these days.

Next, I'd like to say that the Cards were fantastic last night. Pounding out 16 hits in a rout to win the series. It could have easily been a sweep, but I guess I should never complain about taking 2/3 on the road.

I'm going to take a moment to say that Pujols is a classy fellow. Sure, he'll let you know how he feels. And he'll tell ya when you've screwed up. But wow. Pujols was visibly upset. As soon as the play was over he hovered near the mound in concern. Soon he was joined by Adrian Gonzalez as they bowed their heads in prayer. After taking out Bard's leg at home-plate, anyone would be shaken. El Hombre is El Hombre...but he's still a man. And any man would not be able to think straight after that--especially the Young injury. TLR even took him out in the 8th. I hope that this doesn't have any long term effects on Young, Bard, or Pujols.

Am I wrong, or is this the first break of the season for the Redbirds...(checks schedule in the sidebar)...since the 14th of April?! Common people! The Cards went from red hot, to slumping, to playing well again. Over a month of baseball without a day off?! Give the guys a break. I hope the Redbirds enjoy today. They've earned it. Perhaps some might think that it allows them to build up momentum. More likely not. Whoever is in charge of scheduling needs to be, as they say over here, sacked. I'm glad that Pujols gets the day off after that harrowing game.

Lost amidst all the other stuff going on: Schumaker makes an insane catch, and guess who's back...Ankiel gets a pinch-hit homerun.

Wish me luck on my paper. And I hope Indy is as good as the previous ones. Guess I wasn't as brief as I thought I'd be.

-CJ

1 Swing

Was all the difference...Too bad. J.P. pitched a decent game and the bullpen did alright. The offense really let us down. Is it just me or do the Cards seem to let down pretty hard after a big night at the plate? Although, I do like to see Luds batting behind Pujols. I think that is a big part of Pujols' seeing more pitches lately. However, I do not like Duncan as a number two. Furthermore, while I do like having the speedy Barton on the bench, he is simply not cutting the mustard. 2 more K's. And an 0-4 on the evening...leading off.

"Excuse me? I'm kinda new to this whole...baseball...thing.... Call me crazy. But aren't lead-off men supposed to...I don't know...get on base?!"

This message brought to you by the letters M and A and T and H and E and R.

-CJ

Back on Track

I was about to make a post about how LOB and high OBP is a sign of a team that doesn't hit enough HR's--something Earl Weaver would have appreciated. But then last night happened. 4 HR's and an 8 run performance. The 19 LoB is a deceptive stat. The team LoB of 11 is better. And the education of Cardinal John continues. What is more, even Izturis got into the act. Cards were really lucky to not have to face a healthy Peavy--or even an unhealthy one.

Pujols' upper deck HR was absolutely sick. It was a frozen rope. The tape measure 405 feet does not do it justice. Am I the only one who hates how they measure those things? There's no way that a ball seemingly still going up into the 3rd basket of the Western Metal Supply Co. building only went 405. Ludwick continued his hotstreak by hitting his 4th homerun in 7 AB. The next person that mentions trading him while he's hot is going to get a beatin'. I don't want him being the next (offensive) Danny Haren. What's crazy is not just his OPS but his cumulative stats for how few AB's he has.

Have I mentioned that I hate Minute Maid Amusement Park? I'm glad to see Jimmy Ballgame still up to his old tricks--even if it is in that horrible uniform.

Looks like the struggling Padres were exactly what the Dr. ordered.

-CJ

The Cardinal Zone

Doo doo doo doo doo. Doo doo doo doo.
Daaaaaadunnndunndun.

You unlock this season with the key of imagination. Beyond it is another dimension - a dimension where the Rays are 8 games over .500, a dimension where Edmonds is a Cub, a dimension without Izzy. You're moving into a world not of a rebuilding season but a hot start, now a slump and questions. You've just crossed over into the Cardinal Zone.

Portait of a slumping ball club: the St. Louis Cardinals, 2008, NL Central, 3 games out, and a strikingly young team. Pujols has just had his OB streak come to a screeching halt--a streak where he spent the last month and a half getting on base, the onset of which took place amongst a searing start from the Cardinals. But these last few weeks have been dissimilar than from before, in a ballpark very much like the one which the Cardinals are about to play the Rays in interleague play, tonight, the Cardinals are at home yet on their way to a destination which, unbeknownst to the Cardinal fans, happens to be in the darkest corner of the Cardinal Zone.

Astros! Astros! I'm not imagining it! They're out there. Look they're out there now! They jumped passed us when you weren't looking!

"There's something out on the wing! Some...thing!"

And if you look to your left...you'll see the Astros passing us in the standings. The last of the killer B's is hammering away like never before. Sure, a lot of it has to do with the Crawford "can of corn homerun" Boxes. But he has always been underrated.

Anyhow, here we are, mediocre/poor starting pitching and abysmal offense make for losses. Pujol's streak comes to an end and the bullpen does well.

So which is the real Cardinals of 2008 and which is the twilight zone? The team that started the season or the team that is mired in a offensive and bullpen funk? Only time will tell.

Perhaps today may contain a hint of reality. In a Saturday matinée (which means that I won't have to kill myself to stay up to watch it over here in GMT), Wainwright takes the hill and Perez should be available after only 17 pitches last night. Let's hope Pujols and co. avoid those evil donuts and show some patience.

The season of the St. Louis Cardinals is far from over now, a season not only from April to October, but also from the fear of recurring bullpen breakdown. The Cardinals have that fear for a while longer, though, for the moment, the Cardinals have this assurance: LoB can be a good thing--'cause it means runners are getting on base. Single digit LoB is usually a sign of a LOSS. Happily this fear won't hang over our heads for long, either the thread will hold or the Sword of Damocles will come crashing down. This tangible manifestation is very often left as evidence of trespass, even from intangible a quarter as...the Cardinal Zone.

-CJ

Dooo doo doo doo...

Good Rotation? So What?

What good is a solid rotation if the bullpen is going to piss it away every time? Look, I love Izzy. He did some great things, but he is missing his spots, leaving balls up, and is getting hammered. Albeit, Bay's homerun was weak sauce. But that wasn't even the BS...walking the leadoff man...again?! Doing his best Tigers 2006 World Series impression?! Villone wasn't pretty either. This bullpen is in shambles. I still think that the Cards need a bigger bat, but I don't know where one is going to come from. Perhaps it would be best at this time to realize that a big bat won't be ready till the trade deadline--maybe not even then. Finding another couple arms for the bullpen would be an easier task in my estimation.

With the amount of LoB I still think it's just a matter of time till the runs come around. Heck even Izturis' bat is picking up. But we have no chance of winning games if the bullpen gets tagged for more runs than the starters do--that's just not good baseball.

The problem right now is: our two biggest pieces of trade bait aren't going to solve the Cards' problems. We really blew it on Reyes. I don't see anyone wanting to pick him up. Duncan, although batting better lately, is still a liability in the field. Seriously, I'm embarrassed to watch him play left field. It's not a pretty sight. (Fair enough, he'd play it almost as good as me...yes, I'm that bad).

We're inching much too close to .500 for my tastes. And in the division that we are in...it could be costly.

-CJ

Jimmy = Cub

It's all over but the signing. Even if Jimmy wants to be a Cub to stick to those who traded him, he'll always be a Cardinal to me. Besides, it was that defiant attitude that we all loved about him to begin with. No, I won't like to see him in Cub blue. Overall, I don't feel that this is the best opportunity for him. I think that the Cub fans won't want him there, it will hurt his restaurant, and won't win any friends within Cardinal nation. Honestly, I thought that the Cards were MORE than loyal to him. The deal he got at the end of the 2006 season was MORE than generous. On the other hand, TLR's comments "that we don't need another left handed AB" (can't find my source...it disappeared on me) don't seem to help matters much as it appeared rather dismissive--but it was probably beyond that anyway.

For me it's shame, but if I could be there at Busch, I don't care if I'm the only one standing, I'll be applauding on my feet chanting "Jimmy! Jimmy!"

-CJ

SAY IT AIN'T SO, JIMMY!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Don't Worry Be Happy

Seriously. Relax. Don't do it. It's okay. The sky is not falling. When you think about how many times the Cardinals have had 6+ runs put up on them, you should be glad. Wainy had one bad inning. That's allowed. We all knew he wasn't Gibby. Yes, I know, I've been talking to my 8 week old baby so much that it's effecting my languagy.

The problem with this road trip was two things. I bet you can guess. 1) weak run production 2) bullpen issues. Notice that the Cardinals score 3 runs they tend to lose. It's simple math really. Score less and you will lose more. Other than two 8+ run losses, the pitching staff is simply posting below average numbers (a good thing in case you aren't following the logic). What does this mean? Help is needed for the bullpen...but more importantly...
GET A FREAKING NEW BAT FOR THE LINEUP!

-CJ

Okay...you can worry a little.

Too Disgusting

I was almost too disgusted to post. But then I got to thinkin'...who's really to blame. Earlier I watched the Mets crush the Dodgers. Brad Penny had a rough outing. I watched as pitches which were down or out of the strikezone got golfed into the outfield. Several deflections led to some infield hits. Penny wasn't pitching great...but he wasn't pitching that bad either.

"Wait...wait...wait!" you say. "What do the Dodgers have to do with the Cards' game last night?"

Izzy was and has been getting hammered. By and large, we're not talkin' bad luck. People are launching on him like a pack of Mentos in a two liter of diet Coke. Sure, Pujols slipped up. He does from time to time. But there are still a fair amount of you out there who keep clamoring for him to "be held accountable." To those who keep claiming this...you are silly. Go back to your corner. Annnnnyhoo...where was I? Oh yea! It's not just Izzy. He was put in a tough situation. It's the bullpen in total. Apparently, TLR has confidence in the bullpen: "We have a bullpen that can shut them down, but it just didn't do it." I don't know if this is well founded. Give me more than three occasions where the bullpen looked like it could shut anyone down and I'll grant TLR's claim. But I don't think there are!

Some people want to chalk up the loss to the bats. Yes, it is true that 3 runs is below average for the Cards (they're averaging about 4.7 per game this year). But 4.7 is only .1 per game above the league median (yes, I was too lazy to do the averaging). Yes, the need for a better bat still weighs heavily--and is rightly the priority. However, the bullpen should not give up 4 runs in 2 innings. I suggest that 1.7 runs below your average in a game is not half as bad as giving up 4 runs in 2 innings. The goat, as C70 would say, is the bullpen.

Ankiel's got one...

...and it's not for taking pictures. Other than preserving a "W" for the Cards, the best thing about his two throws (which, if you haven't seen click here) is that many teams are going to seriously think twice before running on him in the future. What's amazing on both the throws was his accuracy from such a distance...ironic, no?

So...TLR was obviously trying to get the bullpen some rest. But I wouldn't be too surprised if there is some hesitancy to pass on close games to the bullpen. Nevertheless, it was good to see Looper go that long. Although it did get a little shaky at the end. I'm going to have to chalk this one up as "losable". No, not all 1 run games would be considered "losable". However, if it wasn't for solid hitting from Looper and those throws from Ankiel then our beloved Redbirds might not have pulled it off. Perfect throws to third from deep center and batting heroics from pitchers is not something I want to rely on.

Okay...okay...I admit. We have it good right now. Real good. Second best record in the bigs. I really can't complain. However, before the break there needs to be a move. Duncan and Reyes and change for a good bat. In the near future, I'll be posting my most wanted list (a good want). In the mean time, let me know your wish list. Who would you like to see join the Cardinal ranks? Who should go? I'd love to get your feedback.

-CJ

What was Worse?

What was worse last night: the Rockies announcers last night or the officiating? McKay was clearly playfully pushing Helton at first. The Cardinals clearly have had the high socks for some time--since the 1800's. Hurdle clearly was making just as many moves as TLR. Izturis clearly didn't put his glove up "in self-defense." Molina was clearly safe. Molina clearly didn't catch the foul tip third strike.

Ryan looked silly at the plate in the 9th.
Pujols looked like he was running better.
Pujols looked like his back was hurting on the pickoff bluff at 2nd.
Pujols looked like a genius in the 9th.

For that 1% of the population gripin' about Pujols in the clutch: Shut up.

Edit: I'd like to add that I really enjoyed the outing from Parisi. You could tell he was a bit nervous, but he had quality stuff. Good to see Izzy pitch well. His BB was controversial. That's two strong outings in a row. Let's keep it up. Flores pitched better than his stat line showed. The hits that came off him were either extended zone hits, or that weak "excuse me" swing hit that went just a bit farther than my 7 week old daughter can spit up. Def. what I call a "losable" game. But we'll take it.

-CJ

Parisi for Reyes

Mike Parisi was called up today. Always glad to see a youngin get his first shot in the show. Reyes was sent down. With all the trade rumors that were circulating around Reyes, I can't help but wonder if this will lessen his value. Last year started a chain of events which Reyes has never quite recovered from. His World Series heroics of 2006 seem to have been a premature pinnacle. I hope that he is able to get back to that form. In the end, I hope this move helps rejuvenate the bullpen. Do you agree with this move? Disagree? What do you think?

Edited: Perhaps they want Reyes to get more time starting in AAA in order to demonstrate his abilities?
-CJ

UCB Game Blog: 2nd Inning

Thanks for the great start, Mike from Stan Musial's Stance.

After a perfect first, Lohse looks to carry over his sharp April to May. Lohse has been one of the most pleasant surprises about this season--and this season has been full of em. The outfield is playing out nicely. The rotation is sharp. And Pujols looks strong. Lohse was a great pickup, who, I must say, I had my doubts about. However, Dave Donuts has pulled another pitcher from his hat.

Lohse quickly pulls ahead of Fukudome only to give up a leadoff single. Leadoff batters reaching base was a big problem for the Cards last year. This year it seems to have been kept to a minimum.

The pitcher's best friend smiles upon Lohse as DeRosa grounds into the DP. Speaking of which, I just found a store that sells Dr. Pepper here in Ireland. Now if I could just rustle up some IBC Rootbeer I'll be good to go...oh yeah...the blog.

With the bases cleared Lohse gets Soto to ground out to shortstop. Another strong inning for Kyle. I'm really likin' him more and more with each start.

Bottom of the 2nd:
Luds strikes out on four pitches. 1st pitch swinging again. I love Luds. IMHO he should be more regular in the outfield, however...Luds gets behind a bit too often. I'd like to see him laying off some more in order to be more effective in front of Pujols. Since the lineup has been changed again it's a bit different. Nevertheless, does anyone think that Luds could be good enough protection from Pujols? I don't know if he is the long term answer. As I have said several times before: Protection for Pujols should be the number one acquisition priority. Number two? Bullpen issues. Who would you be comfortable with? Izzy? Not anymore. Reyes? Still not what was expected. Springer? Hardly. Fraklin, Villone, Flores, and McC? Better but still not where we wanna be. Number three? Doing something with Izturis. His glove aside, he's got to go. Reyes for Greene (SD) sounds promising. Once Carp gets back the bullpen will be strengthened.

Surprise, surprise. Glaus flied out again. Think he's been scouted? Seriously, they know how to pitch him every time. I'm really gettin' fed up with folks talkin' about how many RBI's he's getting. Seriously, I could get RBI's when Pujols et.al. are ALWAYS gettin' on a head of me.

Ankiel is in a different spot in the lineup. I think these changes are NOT good for the team. I'd like to see more of a rhythm get setup. Skip should be leading off. Luds with his sick OPS should be second. Pujols third. Ankiel cleanup. Glaus 5th--IF he starts slugging. Kennedy and Molina 6 and 7. Pitcher 8th and Ryan (not Izturis) as the additional leadoff. Ankiel grounds out.

A rather lackluster inning for the Cardinals here. Bummer--I hoped I would have more to talk about. Well, here's hopin' that the Redbirds come to life with the bats later on.

Thanks for stoppin' by. Feel free to stop by in the future as we rant, rave, and review more Cards action. I'll now pass the baton over to Mike at Mike on the Cards. Enjoy the progressive blog and go Cards!

-CJ

Benjamin Linus Would Be Proud

I was about to make the case that the Cardinals are losing a lot of close games and are thus better than their record shows. They are making silly errors (see: Duncan, last night), stranding more people than Oceanic Flight 815, getting line-drives caught like colds in January, and having overall simple bad luck. 7/11, no, not the store, of the Redbirds' losses are what I call winnable (winnable means that if one small thing had gone differently it could have easily been a W for the good guys). The Cardinals lead MLB with 231 LOB. Sure, that's partially due to the Cardinals ranked #1 OBP (tied with the Cubs at .367). This is actually good news, because it is just a matter of time before those base runners get home. The Cards, while having made a few very untimely errors, only have 12 errors on the season--good enough for a tie for 5th best. However, I started looking at the W's and there are a slew of single run wins as well. 6/16 were one run games. Add in a couple of losable games and we're lookin' at 50% of our wins. What's that mean? I think it means our record accurately reflects the team thus far. Perhaps we're a bit better than we appear in the standings.

You know the guy I'm talkin' about. He has Austrailia--the purples. He doesn't look menacing in his little corner of the board. He has to fight through the mess that is Asia. But then all of a sudden, one turn, his paltry forces have accumulated into a fearsome pile of plastic impunity. I'd like to think that the rolls will go the Cardinals' way soon.

Looks like I might make that case after all.

-CJ

Batting McClellan Bottom 8th

It might be a little too early...but it's been two games that one might expect Izzy and TLR has avoided him. Sure, today was not a save situation (4 run lead), but McClellan was left in the game (with one out) to sacrifice with Molina at first. Doesn't seem to be a sign of a whole lot of confidence in our normal closer. Sure, you could say that TLR is simply giving Izzy some time to recover from the fiasco a couple of nights ago. But the night before TLR let a pitcher go all the way for the first time all year--which, btw, was a save situation. It's too early to come to any conclusions, but I wouldn't be surprised to see McClellan or another pitcher be groomed for the closer role in the near future.

-CJ

That's one way...

..to handle the bullpen issues. I've always preferred Wainwright closing out games.

Bullpen Issues

We have them. We have them badly. Something needs to be done. No, we still need protection for Pujols. A little more offense and we still mighta pulled it off. But Izzy is getting HAMMERED. Perhaps we can just move some from the rotation once the big guns get back.

-CJ

For Love of the Cardinals

Dear Cardinals Admin,

I'm not the only one. Sure, I've brought it up before, but I'm saying it again now. Pujols is in the prime of his career and you all didn't sign him to that big contract to watch him get walked 1/3 of his AB. Even worse, he isn't on this team so that he can get waked 50%+ with MoB. I'm not saying Pujols isn't a team player, but you have to think that he may get the itch to play with a team that will give him chances.

But, even if you don't do it for the team or for Pujols, you should do it for me. I don't want to watch Skip stretch a single into a double only to watch someone fly out and then 1b is glaringly open. With Pujols 3rd, 9,1, and 2 are not gettin' on base enough. EVERYONE knows that's why the pitcher hits 8th on this team. But I'm gettin' off topic.

I'm not even saying that you have to go out and get Barry Bonds. But, if you care for Pujols, who obviously cares for this franchise (look how cheaply you got him for many years), if you care for his legacy (and thus the future legacy of the Cardinals), if you care for releasing a quality product for your fans, then by any and all means necessary GET SOME FREAKING PROTECTION FOR THE MAN! Ortiz has Manny, A-Rod has an entire team, and Vlad has half a team. I'm not saying that the Cards go out like the American league Warbuckses. But this team needs another superstar. Rolen filled the roll nicely for a couple of years, but the time has come for protecting YOUR INVESTMENT. Your money will be better spent if a fearsome hitter is acquired. Glaus is solid, but not even close to your answer.

I am thrilled for the potential of Ankiel, Ludwick, Ryan, et.al., but they are not the answers either--at least not that I can see now.

Don't get me wrong, I love the Cards, but this is a glaring weakness and problem. Pujols is one of those players that will be legendary. He's one of those guys who is willing to get paid less than others of lesser talent just for the team. Let's make sure this continues to be a place where the relationship is mutually beneficial. Ask not what your Pujols can do for you! Ask what can you do for your Pujols!

-CJ
This message brought to you by the blogger who hopes his progressive dinner inning isn't like the 6th inning of tonight's Astros game (Looper singles, Ryan flies out, Schumaker double play).

Why are you a Cardinals fan?

Someone asked about my "Cardinals experience." Therefore, I thought I would share my brief response.

My first memory of baseball was my dad jumping up and down screaming as the ball rolled underneath Buckner's legs. Now, I'm not as young as that may sound, but I didn't start watching baseball from the cradle. However, I wasn't old either--7 years old. I'm sure in my household I would have watched some games before that--but that is when it stuck. Following the '86 World Series, I started watching the Cardinals in '87. It was my first full season of following baseball. As far as I'm concerned they're the greatest team ever and they got hosed in the series against the Twins. Tommy Herr was SAFE! That stupid Metrodome and those stupid hankies. Seriously, that's when I fell in love with the Cards. Ironically enough, I loved the 3rd base incident with Will Clark--who even though I loved the Cards became my favorite player. When Clark ended his career with the Cardinals I was thrilled. I enjoy the classy nature of the Card's organization yet they have a gritty and "bootstraped" history. I am proud to be a Card's fan especially because of the overall class and IQ of Cardinals fans (when I sent out that response I misspelled "especially" LOL). Soooo, enough about me. Tell me, if you like, when did you come to like the Cardinals?
BTW If you didn't see it, watch Osgoo...errr Pineiro with the kick save.
-CJ

ROFL

Here's a comment made on Obviously You're not a Golfer

"...in Cardinals Nation, not knowing how to spell Albert's last name is like not knowing the pledge of allegiance..."

Seriously, I think I need stitches...
-CJ

What They Were Thinking

Here's a snippet from one of favorite Cardinal blogs, Fungoes: "Happily, the team corrected the problem today, but we’re concerned about the thought process that animated such a reckless decision."

This was regarding the decision to option Washington (536 OPS; .158 BA) instead of the expected Brad Thompson. The decision to go short handed in the infield caused some unorthodox moves to say the least. Fungoes does a great job of explaining the potential disaster that could have occurred from having too many pitchers.

The slight injury to Izturis has forced the call-up of Brendan Ryan (SS) and the demotion of Thompson.

However, I offer these thoughts on the aforementioned "thought process".

A. There have been several times that TLR has played his cards differently than the norm. Yet, often times it seems as though those gambles have paid off. No, they don't always work, but when they do they appear as genius.

B. It is clear that no one could have predicted the injury to Izturis. Had TLR et.al. known this, I doubt Washington would have been moved down.

C. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that player options had something to do with it. Washington was a flier and if I am not mistaken has never been called up before. I mean, if you don't want to lose an option on Thompson, who else are you going to send down?

D. TLR was having a tough time fitting Washington into the lineup as it was. And with that anemic OPS who's to blame him? Don't get me wrong, Rico was a feel good story about a guy finally getting his chance (been in the minors from 10+ years). 2/7 of Washington's appearances were in the outfield anyway.

All in all, I agree that sending Rico was prolly the wrong move. However, eating up one of Rico's options (especially if he is eligible for a 4th) is not half as bad as taking ANOTHER of Thompson's. However, the semi-injury to Izturis makes this all moot.

So...now the real question becomes: Why isn't Ludwick starting every game?

-CJ

Another...

Another..."good loss". Okay, but there are beginning to be to many. Perhaps I got to excited with our hot start and we are slowly drifting back to reality. Maybe I just shouldn't complain about splitting a series with the Brewers. It's only the second split series of the year (only one lost series). Please excuse the construction, but I had to get rid of a lot of dead links and put in links to new blogs.

Big Mac Land

On the anniversary of the longest homer ever, Pujols' left the yard in a HURRY! More on this in the AM.

That's How to Lose

This is how you want to lose a ball game. Fielder's quasi-pop fly had bifocals and dropped catastrophically into left field. This was the only reason why we went to extra innings. It's the way you want to lose. Last night, in my weekly poker match, I made it to head's-up play by some tight play at a loose table. I was short stacked but with confidence. I flop trip 8's. I go all in, my opponent calls with Q-4 of hearts. One heart on the flop. You know what came on the turn and the river. See that's what I'm talkin' about. That's how you want to lose. Put yourself in position to take care of those and we're talkin' October. Sure 3 runs isn't enough to install massive amounts of confidence, but we're going to have those games. I'm more than happy to take 2 outta 3 against the Brewers.

So....ehhh...Ludwick is on fire. I told ya! Actually, I've been yellin' about him for several seasons now. Huh? You checked my archives and you only saw one post on him. Okay...but I said I've been yellin' about him. I didn't necessarily mean posting. Anyhoo...I knew it. Proof or not. Now the question is...how much staying power do Ludwick and co. have?

-CJ

Lucky Lucky

The Cardinals clinched another series victory. They haven't lost a series yet (splitting the away series with the Giants). Tonight they'll get the brooms and dustpans ready. Last night was verrrry lucky. I don't know if anyone at the ball park got a good look at Shu's homer, but from my angle it didn't look like it cleared. However, the closest person to it (RF Hart) didn't seem to object much. At least not on my TV. Perhaps he was objecting but wasn't shown. The debated homer aside, Izzy was gettin' hammered. The two doubles were hammered to RF. Pujols made amends for his gaff a few nights ago with a snazzy snag of another well hit ball to RF. Looks like Izzy is up to the same ole tricks. His pretty ERA took a beating and is up to 4.91. Nevertheless, the lineup put up the hits and the runs. As for me, I'd like to not have to rely on disputed and picther homeruns for my "W's."


Cards Vs. Umps

Don't be fooled. The Cards were playing the Umpires more this series than the Giants. Horribly inconsistent strikezones. Last night's game during the ninth was the worst. Ludwick and Duncan both called out on what was clearly a ball each time.

All in all I am really happy with the way the Cards are losing...losing close games. It's a sign of good things.

Ludwick is playing some great ball.

What would the outcome have been if that first pitch to Pujols hadn't been a wild pitch? Bummer...

-CJ

Starting Pitching

It was another solid outing for the rotation as Wellemeyer (7ip 2 er). However, a 9th inning rally to tie it up was overcome by a walkoff homer. Good Astros pitching and some lucky positioning was too much to overcome (not to mention a horrific Hickox strikezone). Hopefully Duncan's plate awareness will improve as he was made to look quite silly. The lefty, Wandy, seemed to baffle several Cardinal batters. The southpaw advantage left hot Ankiel hitless. Pujols got his first hit off Rodriguez.

However, my biggest gripe is once again about that joke of stadium. Towels HR once again would have been in a double or an out in most parks. Tejada played very well for the 'Stros as his defensive performance plus his walkoff (no doubter) made him the player of the game.

-CJ

Feelin' Good

I know it's the start of the season and even the Pirates fans are feelin' good. However, I'm stolked...and for several reasons:

• The Redbirds are a young team for a change. 15 of the active roster are under 30. While many are pushing 30, it is a big change from what we had last year. I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for Rolen and Edmonds. But it's nice to know that things seem to be on the upswing again.
  
• The entire outfield is new and they seem to be excited to play ball. The talent of this group is eye popping. Here's hoping it comes to fruition on the field.
• Rico Washington finally getting his chance is reeeeeeaaallly cool.
  
• Last night's performance was nice to see after the debacle that was our first loss. I was wondering which will be the real Cards: the team that jumped out to a 5-1 lead on opening night or the team that blew a tiny 1 run lead through mistakes.
• Welly pitched fairly well.
• The only bad performance might be considered: Franklin. The bullpen has not been impressive so far.
• Overall, if this team can hold on till Carpenter, Mulder, and Clement...yikes.

-CJ

Day 1--kinda

Well I have a daughter. Born during Spring training no less. Yes, I have a daddy and daughter matching Pujols shirts. Yes, she'll have to grow into it (she's only up to 6lbs 2 oz--it's for 3-6 month babies). Yes, she was upset that the game got rained out. Yes, she thinks that the PPD rule in baseball is one of the worst in all sports. Yes, I was extremely disappointed that I stayed up to watch the game (6 hour difference here in Ireland). Yes, I plan on posting more often.

Baseball is even better when you get to watch it with your own kid.
~CJ

Whoah....who are you?

I live in Ireland. That's right. That's where I've been. Plugging away at my dissertation. Not that anyone even remotely reads this anymore. Weren't a whole lot of you to begin with. Anyway. After that worthless season, I remind all of you of the 5 year rule. In said rule, you are in no way allowed to complain about your team for 5 years after winning a championship. That said, if LaRussa leaves, the Cardinals BETTER pick up Torre. Letting Jocketty go was a huge mistake. Let's see if they can right the ship.

Josh Hancock

In a horrible accident Josh Hancock was killed when his car collided with a tow truck. May the Lord grant peace and comfort to his family and the Cardinal nation. Please pray for his family and all those who grieve this loss.

Hats off to ya, Josh.

-CJ

On Track

I take it Pujols read my blog...ahem. Okay...maybe not. But still, you gotta admit that the timing was nice. Although 2-5 won't go a long way to raise Pujols' BA, those 2 HR's will help the OPS (the perfect stat that it is).

Anyhoo...I'll take .500 ball right now. Right now. Later, not so much. But while Mulder and Carp are getting healthy, this is a great time to cheer on the others. Wainwright, Looper, and Wells are all posting sub 2.50 ERAs. Duncan is on fire. Good times.

And since Puljos isn't worried....neither will I be.

-CJ

Settling Down

The Cardinal nation can sit back and take a deep breath. After being swept by the Mets, at home no less, the Cardinals have bounced back nicely. Behind strong pitching and late inning heroics the Redbirds swept the Pirates and took two from the Astros. Now, if the weather permits, they look to get off to a good start against the Brewers--a team that many pick to win the Central. What is most surprising about the Cardinals' start is that they are doing it without their two biggest stars. With Carpenter sidelined with elbow problems, Pujols has been woeful at the plate (606 OPS). Instead the Cardinals have relied on the surprising Looper and Keisler (Carp's Triple-A call-up sub), plus the phenom Wainwright (you can have J.D. Drew) and free agent signee, Kip Wells.

Once Pujols, Carp, and Rolen get on track...
-CJ

What the heck?!

What the heck was that?! Let's start with the good things I noticed about opening night--cause they will be quick.

Goodthings:
A. Carpenter looked sharp--occaisionally.
B. Kennedy looked good.

That's it. Now take a deep breath and lets look at the bad.

Badthings:
A. WHAT THE HECK IS QUENDO doing sending Eckstein with Pujols on deck?! First of all, we're down by several runs, second: Pujols is on deck, third: Beltran has a freakin' canon, fourth: Pujols is on deck, fifth: it makes first base open which is bad because, sixth: Pujols is on deck.

B. Starting Taguchi? Chris Duncan was on fire in spring training and you start So? Say it ain't So. Lil Dunkin coulda fielded better than that...and that's saying a lot.

But my wife just called and now I have to run.
Let me just say this:
How many double plays we hit into?
-sigh CJ

Like a Kid Again...

"We just wanted to give them a false sense of security."

Who? The Tigers? The media? The world?

This can be the only explanation (and the rash of injuries that plagued the Redbrids) for the sub-par regular season and dominating post-season.

THE CARDINALS ARE WORLD CHAMPS! Its a good feeling. And now for some icing.

Here is a list of media who picked the Tigers (this is not a complete list so feel free to put their names in the comment box and I'll add them on):

How do you like your crow,
from ESPN,
Philips-Tigers in 5?
Olney-Tigers in 5?
Caple-Tigers in 5?
Crasnick-Tigers in 6?
Law-Tigers in 5?
Gammons-Tigers in 7?
Stark-Tigers in 6?
Neyer-Tigers in a sweep?
Kruk-Tigers in 6?
from Sportsline,
the name we don't speak of-Tigers in a sweep?
Mccarthy-Tigers in 5?
Rosen-Tigers in 5?
Mack-Tigers in 6?

I can't find the experts picks for Foxsports or SI. If anyone can point me in the right direction, I would appreciate it.

But tip your cap to:
Ravech-Cards in 7.

There are some similar comments at Fungoes.

As for those who say, "It was a poor series" or "The best teams weren't in it" or "It was a boring series" or "The Tigers threw the game away" you all are probably the same ones that would like to see a 17-15 game as opposed to a perfect game. Good defense DOES NOT mean a bad game. And that is what the Cardinals had: Good Defense; i.e., good pitching. Note that the errors might have made the difference in ONLY ONE GAME. If you need me to elaborate on this, then didn't watch the games.

Here's to the Cardinals: World Champions!

Cardnilly put it best: WOOOOOOOO!

Bellyitcher says: "Pinch me!"

Birdwatch "can't believe what happened."

Get up, Baby is getting into tailoring.

All in the Cards tell "how sweet it is!"

Like the Cardinal's Diaspora, I too love it when I am asked "how does it feel to be world champs""like I had something to do with it."

The 26th man "still can’t fully comprehend it."

Redbirds Fun says, "That's a winner!" and give a list to all who contributed this year.

RedbirdRamblings hollar, "WOOOOOOOOOOO!" too.

Redbirdbrain is "still floating."

The Red Crush call them a "Team of Destiny."

In Walt We Trust claims that "all is right with the world."

FYC is still "awrapped in joy."

The Capital City Cardinals (I live in KY too!) give a Queen'esque salute!

So too does Rockin' the Red!

Cardinal Girl proclaims that its time to "revel."

Party Like its 1982 is currently doing just that.

In the Cards is "basking in the Glory."

The Cards deck gives an hommage to Jack.

YNOT a Blog gives the current Cubs vs. Cardinals WS count.

Having Sobered up, Stan Musial's Stance is ready to talk.

Go Crazy, Folks is St. Peter for Halloween as we are welcomed into Baseball heaven!

As for me, I feel like a kid again.

-CJ

Rain Rain Go Away

"To rain or not to rain?", that is the question! There are some pluses and minuses concerning the rainy weather in general.

Minuses
1. It hurts momentum.
2. Gives rest for Tigers' bullpen who pitched several innings on Tues.
3. Gives rest for Kenny Rogers and MAY even include the chance that he appears two more times this series. (However, his status was probably not changed due to the rainout last night as the travel day is simply eaten up. Yet, if the Tigers lose game 4, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in game 5 on short rest.)
4. Gives the Tigers' bats a chance to regroup.
5. "The War at Home"

Pluses
1. The Cardinals will be resting comfortably in their homes while the Tigers sit in a hotel one day and get relocated another.
2. Gives rest to Weaver and Carpenter.
3. Gives the Cardinals' bats a chance to regroup as they have been only slightly better than the Tigers in the past 3 games.
4. Carpenter could pitch 2 more times. If there are rainouts until Fri or Sat it could be glorious for the RedBirds.
5. Those who were saying that the layoff hurt the Tigers will have to agree that this could hurt them more.
6. I didn't have to tape "Lost."

We'll just have to wait and see.
-CJ

CARP COMES CORRECT!

Great outting by Carp. Only one batter got to ball 3. Only one batter saw more than 4 pitches (and he saw only 5). Only three baserunners all night! No walks! Carp goes 8 innings on 83 pitches. That is one of the more dominant pitching performances in the World Series--EVER. While there were a couple of hard hit balls, they were few and far between. The three hits just found holes. If Soup has half the game Carp did, I will be pleased. One might say he has really overachieved in the NLCS, but he has been the hottest pitcher since the all-star break. That said, I feel good going into game four. Add in the Cardinal's success against righties (Bonderman goes tonight) and I like their chances even better. The Tigers can still make it a series. If they are able to snag one in STL, then they have his Pineness for game 6. If Reyes is going in game 5, then the Tigers have a good shot. I sincerely doubt that he will have a similar type performance that he had in game 1--however, I would love to be wrong.

What's up with playing "We will rock you" after Pudge got hit hard with a pitch? The Cardinals have more class than that. Whoever is in charge of the music and sound effects inbetween pitches and at-bats needs to be more sensitive. In football, everyone shuts-up and takes a knee. In baseball, it should be the same. I couldn't hear any applause when Pudge got back up (over the TV). Anyone that was actually there here any applause? If not, then I'm dissappointed in "the best fans in sports."

The people who are complaining that this is a boring series, are the same people who were complaining that the Cardinals don't have any pitching. Warm up the ovens, Folks. Prepare to put the crows in the oven.

One last thing, do you realize that this is the fastest the Cardinals have gone in the post-season since 1987. What does that say about they 2004 and 2005 Cardinals.....hmmmm?

Edit: I've added a truck load of links to some new Cardinal blogs. There seems to be more popping up then ever before. Some of them are REALLY good. Check em out. But please, always come back.

-CJ

Smile it is 1 and 1

The Cardinals waltzed into Detroit using their two weaker pitchers and they came out even. Now the scales are tipped in our favor. 3 games in StL. Carp and Soup for the first two. That's right kids, even if we only win 2 in StL then we have a distinct advantage going back to Detroit. The stuff on Rogers' hand sure made for an odd atmosphere, and I'm sure that TLR played it down cause his hand appeared to be clean after the first and because of the apparent coziness between the two ball clubs. However, if that wasn't pine tar, I don't have a blog. Tootsie rolls? AVS is dealing some serious bologna. Every pitcher I know is very particular about their grip. I think a sticky melted chocolate would have been cleaned off. Plus, tootsie rolls don't have a yellow hue. However, he got away with some serious mistakes. Several linedrives were picked up by the outfield, and Pujols and Molina both barely missed going yard. As for Scott Miller, this is the last time we mention his name on this blog. He is a hack of a writer who no longer deserves my attention on this blog. When I said he was like the squirrelly reporter from 61*, I was dead on. As for Scott Rolen, he appeared to be seeing the ball well, and I like to see some added protection for Pujols in the lineup. As for Encarnation, get him out of there. He is NOT seeing the ball--in the box or in the field. He bobbles nearly every ball that comes his way. He takes angles on balls like he has never played the outfield before. And frankly, he looks like he just doesn't care to be out there. Put in J-Rod or put happy feet Speizio or deer in the headlights Duncan. It may not be pretty when they are out there, but they haven't cost us runs yet. Even my wife said, "It looks like he is deciding to swing before he even sees the ball. And then just throws his bat out there." Pretty sad endictment if even my wife (remember the swastika incident?) noticed that detail. All in all, we are looking good. We almost won that game last night, despite some wicked pitching by Rogers. I just can't stand that guy.

"A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings."
-Earl Wilson


If that's true of a regular game, then I wonder what a World Series game is.
-CJ

Allow me a few moments...

...to celebrate. Great game. Good pitching, despite the media punks. The pitching was so good against what was supposed to be the best lineup in the bigs(save the Yanks). Now it appears the Cardinals have a chance. I'm not going to go out on a limb and say that the Cardinals WILL win it. But I will say it won't be 4 or 5. I called the Mets series, and don't see the Cardinals going down that hard. Wouldn't it be strange if this underachieveing 83 game winning club went farther than the 105 club a few years ago. And we don't have destiny to fight against this time. My prediction: Cardinals in 6. "What?!" you say. I went ahead and said it. Its not a guarantee. Only a prediction. Play semantics all you want.
-CJ

5 left

One more to get there, four after that. Scott Miller http://www.sportsline.com/mlb/story/9736310 gives a laughable turnaround from the previous night's rantings. This guy should have a blog somewhere, not a sportsline.com column. Errr wait. It looks like Weaver is a solid post-season pitcher-home or away. The infield wasn't positioned as well as it was in Game 1 for the Mets. That was the only difference between Glavine's start then and last night. Pujol's homer wouldn't have cleared the fence in Shea. Kenney looked good--then bad. I don't see the Cards dropping 2 at Shea with Carp and Soup against Lobster and TBA. Duncan was due. I said it right before his swing. Don't believe me? I have witnesses.
-CJ

He wasn't all that good...

Glavine watched screaming linedrive after linedrive get snagged by an impressive infield. We all watched as he fell behind in the count only to be bailed out by poor at-bats. Sure, that might be due to his quality, but it didn't look it. Weaver was certainly the better pitcher that day. Add in the horrible strikezone and you have a mediocre outing by Glavine. And to Jon Heyman, what's Pujols' BA against the Mets... 286! That's over 4 games! Anyone can have a 286. Add in the fact that he has had at LEAST 3 scalding linedrives snagged by leaping infielders. How many runs does that account for? Let's be honest folks, the Mets showed up for game 4. Hancock is certainly not the answer for middle relief. But if Weaver pitches like last time (I know it was a road game) I think the Cardinals have a good shot. Sure we have to go back to NY, but Carpenter is on the mound against Maine. As to the drama regarding Rolen and TLR...give it up media! Nobody wants to be benched. Nobody wants to start an injured player. Since your daytime award winning Yankees are gone you have to try to stir up trouble elsewhere. Yes, Scott Miller. You are the sniveling little reporter in the movie 61*. Reading your article on Sportsline.com killed more braincells then an entire college binge night. Not an ounce of evidence to prove that there was the turmoil that you are making it out to be. "I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."-BM

-CJ

To all the doubters...

How do you like your crow served? To all those who said, "we'll get there but we won't do anything when we do." Nya nya! I know we haven't done that much, but its something. Here's to the real STL Cards showing up! GO CARDS!
-CJ

DANG IT LR!

If he has a player hit and run with the pitcher at the plate one more time, I'm going to scream.
-CJ

To the Doubters...

There WAS a whole lot of doubting going on amongst the supposedly "best fans in basbeball." The phrase heard most often was "but they won't do anything in the post-season." With the best player in all of baseball plus a legitimate ace, the Cardinals can do more than "nothing." Mark you caledars, today you heard it here on The Cardinal Virtue: The Cardinals will win the NL. That may not be saying as much as that normally means, but its more than anyone else is.
-CJ

Super Pujols

In a reality some people think is completely devoid of real superheros--I submit A. Pujols. The "man" just tied Willie Mays for game winning HR's in a season. Mere mortal? Nay, I say. But perhaps last night's triple-deck-dinger should have counted for extra. The Cardinals found themselves in their 3rd 7th game slide. Like Superman saving the always beleaguered Metropolis, so too has Pujols carried this steakiest of teams into the land of magic number 4. Assuming we retain our 1st place Central position, there are things that even the mighty Puols can't save the redbirds from--a collapse by the Dodgers. The Phillies have a relatively easy schedule remaining 1 at D.C. and 3 in Florida. The Dodgers also have a fairly easy 3 agaisnt S.F. and 1 against CO. With only a 1 game lead in the Wildcard, its anyone's game. I'm sure most of you are aware that if the Phillies get the W.C. it means we play the Mets. While the Mets have been cold of late, they are playing clinched playoff baseball--an entirely different game. What do I think? Lets not blow this Central thingy--then we'll bother with who we will play.
-CJ

I write more "back posts" then normal ones...

Such is the life of grad school. Funny how my last post was about an 8 game slide. Now we are facing another one. The pressure is on and we are facing the biggest choke job in MLB history. That's right, kids--in MLB history. Have you ever been to Houston and seen the size of their cockroaches? Know how cockroaches never die? Can you think of a better name than the Astros?
-CJ

Off the Snide!

Took long enough but the ball finally bounced our way. "A matter of time?" yes and no. Depends on the antecedant...Was it a matter of time that we hit the snide? Was it a matter of time that we came out of it. I guess its rather yes and yes. We started out strong but then became too reliant upon Pujols to win games. When I say reliant, I mean he had too many game winning one run game hits. You win a lot by one run and you're going to be like the Nats last year. We got found out. Are we still strong enough to win the central? Of course. But lets not get crazy kids. Unless we pick up a fantastic starting pitcher (I don't know what with), by trade time...we won't get past the pennant. That's right...you heard it here first...unless someone has already read it. I haven't been blog trolling in a while due to my dell laptop frying its own mother board. Thanks a lot dell...and the warranty just ran out. I better be careful I'm typing this on a dell at the library...they have eyes...and ears...but I guess you don't need ears to hear what I'm typing.

-Crazy CJ

WHAT?! Molina?!

For you stupid Cardinal-fans out there that are voting for Yadier for the All-Star game (he's third in the National league catcher spot), STOP! You are making us look bad. We are supposed to be the "smartest" fans in the game. Lets not vote like a bunch of "homers."
-CJ

Just Maintain...

Just maintain...give Pujols plenty of rest and no reason to rush back. Let's make sure he is good and healthy.

Glad Pujols is on the DL

For all those people writing out there that us Cardinal fans would rather see Pujols break Bonds' single season homerun record then win the World Series--read the title! He has been playing with a hurt back for some time now. I want nothing more than to see him healthy. We tried to rush Rolen back last year and look where that got us. I'm certain we can make the post season--its winning in the post season that concerns me the most. So take your time Albert. Take your time Chris. Jimmy. Let's not rush things. Its a long season lets play it accordingly.
-CJ

Coming out of retirement...

...for the second time. I would say it doesn't matter, but its the Astros. Should we go ahead and delcare them the wildcard winners now? Gosh, I'm sick of the Rocket.
-CJ

Did we really need...

...the modifying prepositional phrase? What planet is Garner on?

"He's the hottest man on the planet with somebody in scoring position."

-Garner on AP

-CJ

Semester is over!

Papers are graded...mine are turned in. Ah! It feels good. Almost as good as our lead on the Central. Now that feels good. Let's catch up...
1.Pujols is on a record breaking pace, but how long will it take before he starts getting the intentional pass more often. While it is true Albert has had way more protection than Bonds, its only a matter of time. Which means, that 81 HR pace (or whatver it is now), is going to taper off.... Additionally, his back has been bothering him quite a bit. Let's not have anymore slips on the logos shall we? And no, that wasn't some clever messianic reference either, but man...that would be clever. Anyone heard any word...get it? "word?" "logos?" ...nothing?...nevermind. Philistines. Has anyone heard anyting regarding his palatar facieitis (sp?). Has Saruman or Denethor looked into this? Gosh, I'm full of all sorts of nerdy references today. Just consider it making up for missing nearly a month. Seriously, how is his foot?

2.I saw AP strikeout the other day. I was curious...so I looked it up. He's only K'd 11 times. Anyone know the record for best HR to SO ratio? Compared to previous seasons he's doing good for AP.

3.Will the Bullpen keep up this pace? Does are bullpen remind you of the Goonies?
No? Me neither.

4.Is it me or are the Tigers the worst 1st place team ever? No? Look at their schedule and talk to me later.

5.I am one of those people that believes that it doesn't matter where Clemens winds up, he's going to directly effect the outcome of the Cardinals.

6.welp gotta run.
-CJ

Its My Fault

Seems like everytime I try to catch the Cards coming into Great American Ballpark, they lose. I blame myself. So...I won't go to today's game. Plus I have papers to grade.

Some notes on last nights game:
Pujols was seeing the ball well. He stroked several LONG fall balls. He just got under a few. He's looking good. He feels confident he can hit it out EVERY pitch.

Molina looks miserable. Put me in coach. At what point does his poor hitting make him too much of a liability? At least Matheny got a few bloop hits here are there. Bennett is NOT the answer.

How in the world did Arroyo EVER hit those two homeruns? He has one of the ugliest swings I've ever seen...even for a former AL pitcher. And someone get that boy some scissors. His hair was in MY face and I was in the Mezzanine.

Cheerleaders?!?! At a baseball game. Reds lose several respect points in my book. And they were dancing to the B52's to boot--bleh!

To the fat Red's fan who swore so much that he would make Good Will Hunting blush, your behavior in front of children is not cool.

To the rest of the Red's fans, you all are a class act, I always have a great time coming to GAB...except that the Cards lose every time I come to watch. Maybe that's why ya'll are so nice to me...
-CJ

That's much better!

Edmonds getting in on the act! Bout time!! But even better are good outings from Izzy and Carp. Carp is once again bringing filthy stuff, and if the lineup would have stepped up he'd be 3 and 0.

Question: When and who were the last pair to win the Cy Young and MVP in back to back years(either league and they don't have to be on the same team)?
-CJ

UGH

Let's not ever lose like that to the Pirates EVER again.
-CJ

Rolen's Back

One of the most encouraging things I noticed over the first few games is the play by Scott Rolen. Not only has he been seeing the ball well (as John Rooney points out EVERY at bat), but his play in the field looks good. That diving stop and throw to first from his knees can only be described as FILTHY! Jeff Cirillo needs to go ask for his lunch money back, as that was a mugging.

I really like Pujols' attitude regarding his HR. "I don't care about the home run...I care about the win." This is what separates Pujols from many of the other players out there. He leaves the conjecturing about individual accomplishments to wannabe pundits like me.

This is a big game for Marquis. He came out okay, but walked too many. He's in a contract year, and I hope that we are going to see some good stuff from him.

Bush had a great outing last time for the Brew-crew. Let's hope we can get to him early and make the kid sweat.

"If he raced his pregnant wife he'd finish third." (on catcher Mide Scioscia)
- Tommy Lasorda

-CJ

Having missed a sweep...

If one were to be out of town the Chicago series was one to miss. So I'll just pretend that Izzy can throw strikes, Pujols can average more than 1 hit per series, and as Rob at Birdwatch said, "Sitting Edmonds leaves the Cardinals' lineup looking like Pujols, Rolen and the Seven Dwarves in a one-run game."

So...after our sweep of the Phillies we come back home to our brand new stadium and after an amazing game in which Pujols get his 4th of the season and Mulder hits his first ever, we are sitting pretty with a well deserved day off before the game on wed. Opening day was fantastic, as the closest I was able to get was to drive by the stadium just before at 3 central on HWY 64 on my way back from Oklahoma. Does anyone understnad how torturous this was for me? I was completely helpless, being so close, no way to get a ticket, sniff...sniff...I can't take anymore. I'll have to write more later....sniff...
-CJ

I'll take it

I'll take it. 4 run inning is all it takes. Marquis was oookay. I'm out of town and I'll post more later.
-CJ

Big Day for X-Files

Big day for X-Files. I've been anxious to see him all offseason. As most everyone knows, this is a big year for Mulder. He's a FA and is looking to get back to his position before the last little funk he had in Oakland. While he had a great season for most pitchers last year, it was not up to par for him. It would do this heart some good to see him come out with a dominating performance of a very good Phillies line-up.

As for Rollins, I'm excited for him, as his current streak is very impressive. I find myself cheering for and against the person challenging the record. Some may not like me for it, but I find myself wanting the mystique of the old record to stay intact. I felt similar regarding MacG and Sosa (and later Bonds)when they were chasing Roger M. Hindsight being 20/20, I really wish they hadn't succeeded, for obvious reasons. But I have little reason (so far) to doubt Rollins' authenticity.

For the sake of my Redbirds, however, I hope he hits nothing but air.

"It's bad luck to be superstitious."
Dave Coggin, Phillies

-CJ

More Miles

Miles. double. triple. So far so good.

Pujols 2 homers...

Carpenter...was looking good until the 4th. But with that kinda lead...But the Philies usually hit Carpenter.

Got to like the intentional walk to put ducks on a pond for the grand salami for Rolen.

Speaking of Rolen...I want to be deeeeead wrong.

Looks like a "W" to start off the season.

"It good to be the king!" -Mel Brooks, History of the World Part I

-CJ

Magic 8ball

Feel free to send in your questions to your very own CardinalJohn, a pathetic excuse for a prophet, but you'll get my gut feeling nonetheless.

In a few hours another glorious season for the St. Louis Cardinals will be underway. I'm really stoked.

Will Pujols do even better this year?
My sources say, "Yes." Stronger, more experienced, and he's only 26.

Will Rolen be back to form?
Probably not. He'll be back--as in better than 2005, but that is hardly saying anything. Unfortunely, I don't think he'll ever revert back to his prime. I hope I'm DEAD WRONG.

Will the rotation be able to put up 2005esque numbers?
Most Likely. I've had to eat crow regarding these guys more than once. I've learned not to doubt 'em.

Will the bullpen hold up?
Outlook hazy--for obvious reasons.

Will our outfield be enough?
Yes, but it won't be pretty. I'll join the aging Edmonds but cheer for him all the more. I still think he's got a few more web-gems in him.

Infield replacements?
Yes, and don't believe the doom and gloom talk about the replacements. They were saying the same things about Eck and Grud last year.

Will they win 100 games again?
No.

Will they win the World Series?
Outlook positive.

Will they win today against the Phillies?
You bet your sweet bippy!

-CJ

...than you can shake a stick at

Lots of new (at least to me) cardinal blogs out there. Here are a few:
http://crimsonfowl.blogspot.com/
http://26thman.com/
http://progenyofpagnozzi.blogspot.com/
http://cardsfanschicago.com/
http://redbirdsfun.blogspot.com/
http://redbirddiary.blogspot.com/
http://www.stlouiscardsblog.com/
http://www.lawman3842.com/blog/
http://www.redbirdramblings.blogspot.com/
http://birdbrain.wordpress.com/
http://yourenotagolfer.mlblogs.com/
http://reverendredbird.wordpress.com/
http://www.theredcrush.com/
http://www.inwaltwetrust.com/

"Whatever I feel like doing, Gosh!"
-CJ

Clearing Cobwebs

Its time to clear the cobwebs of another offseason, and things look promising.

This is where I tell you that many a blogger and even more a professional writer will point out how "staying healthy is the key" to a successful season.

This is where I tell you that there are some new blogs out there that are worth a look (more on that in a later post).

This is where I tell you that is a bummer that Redbird Reasoning is no longer posting.

This is where I tell you that the player I refuse to talk about has now resurfaced only to fall to another injury.

...where I tell you that the way people are bemoaning Encarnacion, Spivey, and the left-fielder-to-be-named sounds an awful lot like the moans a year ago about Nunez, Grud, and Eckstein.

...where I tell you that we have a great problem if Ponson is battling just to make the rotation.

...where I tell you that Pujols better not hurt himself playing in the WBC.

...where I tell you a part of me is cheering for the Dom Rep.

...that I can't wait for my first game at new Busch.

...that loyalties aside, losing Morris is a very good thing, hated to see you go, Mo.

...that you know its going to be a good year in the central when the Reds are all hyped about their 37 year old prospect from Japan.

...that the Pirates are still the Pirates, the Cubs are still the Cubs, and the Astros are just too old.

Here's to another quality year. GO CARDS!

"You can't take her stuff. She's too old. I mean look at her...she's ooollld."
Happy Gilmore

-CJ

"Anti-Gems"

Call me evil. Tell me I'm sick. Say whatever you want but here are some juicy comments that I found on various blogs. Enjoy!

"Awww, Poo Holes!!!"

"Nothing like the swift horse kick in the jimmy of tonight's two-out, two-strike homer by Pujols."

"Everybody on Planet Earth knew it was so far gone."

"By the way no rinky-dink tee-ball homer into the circus seats for Pujols."

"If you truly love the game of baseball and see the bigger picture, we witnessed one of the most beautiful hits in the game of baseball when Pujols knocked that pitch out of the park. I hate it that he did that. It makes me sick, but when you love this game, you know that what we saw in that hit was pure beauty."

"Of course you're not going to win. Baseball in Houston is a clown show with your stupid buzzing, the silly little costumes, and those chip shot boxes in left field."

"If I hear one more person on the radio whine that Houston is "owed" a World Series, I'm gonna spew."

"Man that ball got outta here in a hurry. I mean anything travels that far oughta have a…stewardess on it, don't you think?"

“Juuuuuust incase you missed the last 50 highlights of Pujols going yard, here it is again folks in slow motion!” Astros fans, do you care for lemon juice to go with that salt on your wound?”

"They have found a way salvage a loss from the jaws of victory."

"It was like "Field of Dreams." But this was "Field of Nightmares.""

"We're in deep doo-doo."

"I know Astros fans are meant to suffer, but isn't forty years the usual limit?"

"So what, a KCMO firm designed Enron Field. Big deal. Still doesn't change the fact that there is a HILL IN CENTER FIELD."

"Can we agree that there's no such thing as a "closer" when Albert Pujols comes up to bat?"

and the Cou de Gras:

"Pujols stood there admiring that home run while Phil Cuzzi ran over from his right field post to signal "FOUL BALL!""

Click here if you're feeling really mean.
http://eksports.blogspot.com/
http://plunkbiggio.blogspot.com/


"Laugh it up Fuzzball." -Han Solo

-CJ

What the heck?

A totally scorched and crushed baseball was found in my backyard today. Anyone know anything about this?

-CJ

From Worst to Best

Two outs. One of the best closers in the game. But Eck does what he does best. Edgar who? Edmonds battles to get on base. Pujols, mighty Pujols. I woke up the entire apartment complex. He smoked it up over the train tracks. I always hated that stupid train whistle every time they score. No whistle for that! I loved watching the reaction of the fans as they go into a state of absolute shock. Pettite was hilarious. You can see him mouth "Oh...my...gosh."

And for those who were wondering. Yes, I was praying. Back to Busch.

-A very happy CJ

Worst Ever

I have never in all my years seen a game called as poorly. The strikezone was anything but "consistent." All sorts of high and low calls going for the Astros but nothing for the Cards. Then ejecting Edmonds was CRAZY. It doesn't matter what he might have said you can't eject him there unless he bumps him or something. This isn't regular season. What is wrong with the Ump that he has to have his crew chief stick up for him and then has to eject one of the premier players in the game because of something he said.

And how bad is it that we can't get a runner home from third with no outs. I'm too steamed to write more. The Astros are too good a team for the Cards to have to play against the umps too.

-a really mad CJ

17-12!!!!

So I'm watching some football yesterday. And they've got MLB baseball scores in the little box in the upper righthand corner of my TV screen. And I see STL 17 ARI 12!!! I'm thinking holy cow that's a high score. Then I'm thinking...wait we don't play the Diamondbacks today. Then a gamebreak and I hear that St Louis despite little offense pulled out a win!!! WHAT IN THE WORLD?!!?!? Then I realize that the little box in the righthand corner of my TV screen switched to NFL. And I feel pretty silly...

-CJ

Fish...

All of a sudden I'm an Astros fan. Happens every year. I start cheering for some team that will make it nice for us. I REALLLLLLLY want to play the Padres in the division series. And the only way it looks like that will happen is for the Astros to rise up. Prob is if they don't then the Braves get about as close to a free pass to the 7er. But our beloved birds deserve that free pass. And don't worry about 'Stros in the 7er. They're not half what they were at the end of last year.

"Bow to your Sensei!"

-CJ

Who me?

Wow its been a long time since I've posted. I guess that's what two summer school sessions of grad level biblical Hebrew will do to you. I'm not out of the woods yet as I still have 3 weeks of good times. Then its "out of the frying pan and into the fire" as the fall semester starts up.

So....Injuries galore and we're still 10 games up on arguably the hottest team in baseball.

Imagine a Cardinal's lineup with a healthy Rolen, Molina, Edmonds, Pujols, Walker, and Sanders. Just imagine.

And let me tell you what I'm sick of. "The Astros sure are dangerous with those 1-2-3 starting pitchers. In a short series blah blah blah." Its true. Any team with quality starters will be dangerous in a short series. But seriously...lets give the Redbird's starters their due. Carpenter (CY frontrunner), Mulder, Morris (a resurgent) then imagine Suppan and Marquis coming out of the pen. Yeah that's sick. Astros don't have that. And they don't have Carlos "he should have that removed" Beltran to hit 9 HR's in an abreiviated postseason for them. Kent gone too? Sure the killer B's are in rare form, but does anyone think that they will stay at that? Think Petite will be healthy? hahahhahaha

The Cardinals have maintained a 10 game lead with the likes of Diaz and Mahoney, J-Rod (man he takes a beating), Seabol, John Gall (about bloody time he got the call), Luna, and Nunez more than frequenting the lineup? This is not what one would expect to maintain a lead the likes of which the Cardinal's are sporting. This season reminds me of a basketball game. A team packed with stars gets out to an early lead and then has to rest starters for foul trouble, injuries, or a simple breather. Then they put in these guys you've never heard of. But just when you thought that the trailing team might make a run without the stars in there the scrubs hold em off, and even extend the lead. Is there anything more demoralizing to the team trying to come back? The current Cardinals roster is doing just that. With healthy and great pitching and a more than scrapy lineup, let the Astros be the "Hottest team in baseball" all they want. Imagine as they real off another 8-10 stretch and they look up and still see another double digit lead.

Man, its good to be a Cardinals fan.

"Your mom goes to college."
-CJ