John Mozeliak: Good afternoon and sorry for the delay...computer problems. I look forward to spending the next hour trying answer as many questions as possible and give all that are participating a chance see how we do things from the inside. Let's get it started.

RP: Carpenter's status aside, wouldn't the sheer amount of innings Wainwright would get as a starter (assuming he's healthy) outweigh the value of using him in high-leverage situations?

I know it's a tough situation, but with Perez seemingly slotted in as the closer, Villone goes back to being a LOOGY, where he's much more effective, you can use Springer/McClellan/Franklin in the 7th and 8th...the bullpen isn't quite the triage center it was a few weeks ago, no?

Bernie Miklasz: I tend to agree and with Carpenter's situation I think we need to keep all our options open. Perez is still learning but he is exciting and of late has responded well to how he is being used. I would also note that the bullpen will get a shot in the arm when we get to September as we can expand our rosters.

elvis26: mo are you working on any trades before the aug 31st deadline? also will we sign any top free agents this winter?thanks
brian

Bernie Miklasz: We are still looking at ways to improve but we do not feel there is much in the way of help. I have said along our success depends on our health...I still hopeful we get to where we thought we would be earlier in the year.

Steve Earp: Mr. Mo, who can we expect to see showcased from our increasingly, majestic farm system come September? Will you offer Cards fans a taste of the future with Rasmus, Wallace, Anderson, D. Jones, Freese, Barden, Greene, et al? BTW, thanks for being disciplined at the deadline.

Bernie Miklasz: I have a meeting scheduled for Friday to determine who we think deserves the call-ups. I have laid out certian criteria that I feel needs to be met before we begin the promotion process. I do think we will benefit from the expanded rosters. At this point I will wait until everyone has had a chance to weigh in before making any public annoucement. Our young players have had a strong year and that is good news for Cardinal fans.

BDAx2: Mr. Mozaliak,

Thank you for doing these chats..it obviously goes above and beyond your duties.

3 REALLY quick questions

1. Where do you realistically envision Colby Rasmus April 1, 2009?
2. Assume Carp and Waino healthy to start 2009, do you see a need to try and go outside the organization to add to the major league starting rotation in the offseason?
3. Do you see the SS position as a position where you are willing to accept below league average offense in exhcange for above league average defense?

Bernie Miklasz: 1. Rasmus will likely find himself competing for a major league job next spring, where he starts will be based on how he performs.
2. Looking at our '09 rotation of Carp, Waino, Wellemeyer, and Pineiro it would make sense to add another arm. I do like what we have seen from Boggs but I do not want to rush him if we do not have to.
3. I would prefer above average offense and above average defense...that is much more desirable.