Jordon W.: Chatmeister-- you said earlier that the club still has one trade to make. Assuming that's trading an outfielder and assuming that Rasmus is off the board, who do you move, Ankiel or Ludwick?

Joe Strauss: Not to be flip, but it depends on who's giving up what. The Yankees have continuing interest in Ankiel. Do you do Phil Hughes or Ian Kennedy? Ludwick is under control for three more years but could become a payroll "problem" given two more rounds of arbitration. There's a lot that comes into play. If Rasmus projects as your future CF, it would appear more logical to find a market for Ankiel and perhaps negotiate to take away Ludwick's arbitration years.

mrbball28: Joe,

With all of the inactivity of the front office over the last couple of years, what motivation does LaRussa have to return after this year? He has publicly been asking for an impact bat for several years, and then Brian Fuentes, and now a starter/closer. He has gotten nothing.

Also, why would Pujols want to stay if the management doesn't seem committed to putting together a team that could contend for championships year in and year out?

Thanks!

Joe Strauss: TLR's decision to stay or go will be a factor in how El Hombre looks at the situation, I believe. Jose Oquendo's candidacy as La Russa's possible successor is an underrated factor as well.

Joe Strauss: That's going to have to do it. The big wave has become shark-infested waters as what resident columnist Brian Burwell endearingly calls baseball's "Stepford Fans" appear in full revolt. Sorry I didn't get to more of your questions but I believe everyone, including the Cards' FO, gets the drift. I'll make a sincere effort to put ChatMeister Mo' on line in the near future and will return myself before heading to Florida.
A Public Service Announcement: The Baseball Writers Dinner is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 19 at the Millennium Hotel. It wraps up the Cardinals' annual Winter Warm-Up. It's a fun event and will feature El Hombre and his MVP award (as well as an opportunity for ChatHeads to stop by and pay homage to The ChatMeister). Tickets for the event are $150 a pop and include a pass to the Warm-Up. (What a deal!!!) Those interested may contact Chris Militello at 314.229.3040.
Also, stay tuned for Derrick "Junior" Goold's upcoming unveiling of the Cardinals' prospect rankings in Baseball America. We'll discuss later.
Thanks again for checking in on short notice.