Joe Strauss: OK, everybody up for another exciting round of JSL!!! I apologize to those of you who have had trouble posting questions. The site, as you may have seen, has been down for maintenance. You can post questions anytime for the next 60-90 minutes and they'll be receive the appropriate attention and (dis)respect one would expect from the ChatMeister. Once again, the Tsunami reaches shore the day after a tough Cardinals loss. I'm sure much is on your mind about the team's viability against LH pitching, assorted bullpen issues and whether the team's 14-7 start is fact or fiction. So without furter delay, Let's Get It On!!!

BGCARDFAN: Mr Joe sir, ... knock on wood... so far, Albert's legs really look sound. Any knowledge of anything specific he's done or even can do to help with his seemingly chronic hammie problems? .. conditioning etc.

Now for a tough one and I understand if you can't go too deep with an answer.

You speak often about sources within the orginazation who view things differently than others when refering to the prospects specifically. One would be lead to assume that could be a divide between the sabr/number cruncher types and the old school types.

Is that anywhere near reality and just how big a divide is it? ... and is it a serious issue or just a normal situation that occurs in most orgs?

Joe Strauss: El Hombre's three stolen bases last week opened the eyes of many. His legs have been sound this season, though last night's postgame found him wearing a wrap on one of those hammies you speak of... Any reader of the P-D recognizes BGCardfan as a bit of a pot stirrer. No problem with that. But know that there is a significant faction of the fan base that is more comfortable with a CandyLand vision of the organization. There were those accused the P-D of trying to torpedo the club's postseason chances in 2004 and 2006 when the rift between TLR and Rolen became open before the world. The same reaction occurs whenever the company line regarding injuries is questions. That's OK. The club recognizes the loyalty it receives from its fans and plays its hand accordingly. However, the degree of skepticism within various corners of the organization about what is in the minor-league system is significant. It may be instructive that the club found it necessary to trade an outfielder with a year's major-league service last week for a relief pitcher, Blaine Boyer, designated by the Braves for assignment.
One: The Cardinals already had Brad Thompson and Josh Kinney at Triple-A Memphis. Why deal Brian Barton for another team's reject?
Two: If the organization is literally bursting with RH relief types, why not start finding out?
TLR and Dave Duncan are on record that they don't believe the major leagues a place to develop players. The front office has a different view. Argue all you want about how prospects are evaluated within the system. But you must be from an alternative universe if you refuse to see the different worldviews within a post-Jocketty organization.

Kevin Kohler: Mr. Strauss,

Thanks for the opportunity. Three quick questions. 1)Do you believe the cards defense will tighten as the season progresses? 2)Will Tony contiue to switch up the line ups all year or will the players eventially play their way into their spots as Ludwick did last year? 3)Speaking of Mr. Ludwick, has his fast start been a suprise to you? I believe many people looked for his to have somewhat of a decline after the breakout season last year.

Joe Strauss: No need for the formality, Kevin. ChatMeister is fine. Some prefer El Diablo. Others have difference preferences, but this is a family chat.
The answers:
1. It had better because it's unlikely the offense can sustain its April production.
2. TLR is creative with lineups even during 100-win seasons. Why should this be any different. So far his creativity has been a significant plus.
3. I find little that Lud' does surprising anymore. He had a legitimate breakout season in 2008. He is currently fighting a funk that included a 4-for-21 home stand. If Ludwick gives the team 25-30 jacks and around 100 RBI it's a solid year.

renomike99: Joe the Cardinals seem to have finally found their closer in Ryan Franklin...Albeit after a talent search as broad and long as a season of American Idol. Other than the factors you've already mentioned in past chats (no longer facing the pressure of Isringhausen being here, and the stigma of taking a job away from a friend), have you seen anything different in Franklin's approach or stuff this year? The Franklin of 2009 sure seems like the closer that could have put us into the playoffs last year, and will get us into playoffs this year.

Joe Strauss: Franklin appeared to sag from overexposure in 2007 and from role changes in 2008. Closing may actually enhances his effectiveness since it would moderate when he is used while allowing him a more consistent role than last season. It's difficult to believe anyone in the NL has been better in the role to date than Franklin.

STLsportsfan1988: Hello Joe,
Do you see Wellemeyer being sent to the bullpen when Carpenter comes back if Boggs is still pitching better than him?

Will they bring up a position player soon so we don't have Wainwright getting a regular pinch hitting role?

Joe Strauss: Wellemeyer ($4M) is going to stay where he is, barring a medical complication. Boggs has elevated himself to the organization's No. 6 starter, which puts him in a good place until Carpenter returns. Every indication is that the Cardinals will remain with 13 pitchers during this stretch of 20 games in 20 days. There has been some debate over whether they are better served with P.J. Walters or Brad Thompson, but so far the Walters faction holds sway.