Joe Strauss: All right, everybody up for an in-game edition of JSL!!! Something tells the ChatMeister that traffic may be down a little this week as many subscribers catch the Harang-Looper matchup. Understood. But many of you already weighed in with some solid questions relating to the team and its 17-11 start. Let's see: The Chicago Cubs hit town Friday with the two teams separated by no more than a game in the standings. Not bad. Mark Mulder just completed a disappointing rehab start at Memphis. (More on that later.) But before the second inning concludes, Let's Get It On!!!

Kevin in California: Hi Joe,
It does appear the cardinals will have players to trade and probibly in pitching which are generally good bargaining chips. Problem seems to be what/who the organization would want- top flight AAA prospects? Current power hitter(???)- The possibilities are many but I can't read the tea leaves yet...What is your instincts here? Any possibility of a blockbuster? Any more Will Clarks out there?
Thanks,
Kevin in Ca.

Joe Strauss: Much is predicated on who's in and who's out in June and July, who are pending free agents and who has younger players pushing for a major-league spot. As you remember, Will Clark was a not a blockbuster move when the Cardinals acquired him from the Orioles in 2000. I don't believe the Cardinals are equipped to engage in a "blockbuster" unless they are willing to part with Colby Rasmus, Jaime Garcia, Chris Perez, etc. The asking price for pending free agents often goes down deeper into the season, but right now it's very difficult to project a match. The Braves continue to scout the Cardinals heavily and the Los Angeles Angels have had a recent presence. It is still too early to assume the Cardinals will be "buyers" but I'm sure the topic will percolate all summer.

Larry Harnly: Is Nomar Garciaparra the role model for Skip Schumacher? Or does he need new batting gloves? How long has Schumacher had this habit of refastening his batting gloves before each pitch?

Joe Strauss: Schumaker's habit is minor-league compared to Garciaparra's obsessive-compulsive batter's box routine. Schu stays in the box and doesn't dramatically effect the game's flow. It's a way of refocusing. I have a tough time hanging in there for Nomar's routine, which challenges Sergio Garcia's re-grip for the most annoying in sports.

Matt & Mike: Sir Chat-

It has come to our attention that Kyle Lohse is projecting to have a great year while making "Number 3 in the rotation" money. As he is represented by Scott Boras and their hope this past offseason was in the 5-year-10-million-per range, we see a looming issue.

The question: Would Mo consider a deadline deal for an impact bat or a stable full of prospects, rather than letting Lohse walk at the end of the year? Any potential trade partners come to mind?

We'll hang up and listen.

Thanks.

Joe Strauss: Lohse ideally fits as a No. 3 on a contending team. Scott Boras typically counsels his players to seek free agency rather than sign an extension before filing. The approach put him at odds with Alex Rodriguez. No question Boras' handling of Lohse's contract cost the player serious jack last winter. Carlos Silva was the only SP to receive a multi-year deal as a free agent. Boras attempted to secure $10 million per year for Lohse and failed, leaving his client only a one-year option here. Lohse seems genuinely appreciative of what Dave Duncan and Marty Mason have helped him accomplish. They have simplified the game for him by present Lohse a detailed game plan that fits his capabilities. I could envision a scenario in which the club would approach the player around the All-Star break if things continue to go well. If the season falls apart, Lohse and Braden Looper are obvious trading chips. But right now those two guys are helping the Cardinals surprise.

Harvey Watson: HEWie: My major knock on LaRussa is that too often he chooses originality over proven percentage baseball. Batting Ludwick leadoff has to be one of his worst gaffes (4 strikeouts). Why would he choose the slower & right-handed Ludwick over the speedier and left-handed Schumaker against a right-handed pitcher like Arroyo? Can Barry Weinberg treat his brain cramp so he won't do it again?

Joe Strauss: TLR admitted the idea didn't exactly work out well and suggested there would be no repeat. The Reds have several LH relievers, which may have contributed to him putting Ludwick up in the order over Schumaker. Arroyo also had allowed six home runs entering Monday's start. But, yes, it did appear like a reach. I can't speak to Weinberg's treatment of the manager since the club no longer makes medical and training staff available to answer media inquiries.

Troy in Florissant: Mr. Strauss,

I am curious as to how you see Rick Ankiel maturing as Major League player. For example, how is he coping with his recent downturn in production? I know last year he seemed to meltdown after the HGH story broke. How coachable does he seem to be? Does he seem like he will be able to make adjustments as teams begin to get a book on him?

I was pleasantly surprised to see Adam Kennedy in the two hole for the Tuesday lineup. What is (was) Tony's thinking on this switch?

Last but not least, I have to eat some crow. I know it is only one month but the Chatmeister's confidence in Skip Schumaker seems to be warranted. Please forgive me for doubting you. It shall never happen again.

Joe Strauss: Ankiel is extremely coachable, according to the staff. He has obviously made adjustments to ascend so rapidly from former pitcher to starting major league center fielder. He is a streaky hitter, not an uncommon trait for a less experienced hitter. With service time the vanishing acts may become less frequent and shorter. Kennedy hit second, according to the manager, for "balance." Again, the Reds have several LH relievers. TLR has shown a willingness to pinch hit for Kennedy before where he would be less inclined in a LH vs. LH matchup involving Ankiel or Duncan.
Heinz 57 goes well with crow. Hard to believe, the ChatMeister has had to eat some in his long, distinguished, award-winning career.

Dean - Atlanta, GA: With the Ludwick leadoff experiment failing (rather badly) in its first night, what are the insider rumors on the next lineup shift(s)?
Also, what are the current odds of Anderson being called up to provide a nice bat every 4th or 5th game when Molina needs a breather?

Joe Strauss: Love the questions from 404 and 770 area codes since the ChatMeister is a former Buckhead and Alpharetta resident. Schumaker is the team's leadoff hitter and will remain so for the forseeable future. What's not to like? Catcher Bryan Anderson was promoted Tuesday from Springfield to Memphis, a move many backers advocated in spring training. He's still 21 and considered a developing defensive player who is considered a high-average hitter with mediocre power. For this team, Jason LaRue appears better cast as a backup; but it's not inconceivable Anderson could be promoted in event of injury, though such a move would put him on the 40-man roster a year earlier than necessary. The ChatMeister is increasingly intrigued.

DAVE COBLER: Hi Joe;
In my judgment; of the 11 Cardinal losses to date, only 4 of those games were losses where the Cards were out of the game and did not have a chance to win. Three of those games were against the Giants whose starting pitching shut the Cards down.
With that said, and (if you generally agree with that assessment), do you think the games played in the month of April is a good sample to measure what we can have hope for how they will compete the rest of the season? Or, do you think the heat of the pennant race will take its toll and wear them down to the degree they fade away into the lower half of the division?

THANK YOU JSL!!! !

Joe Strauss: Good points all. Joe Strauss Live!!! sees May's schedule as a good barometer of where this club is. April's schedule has been loaded with home games and second-tier teams. May begins with three at Busch against the Cubs, an 8-game road trip to COL and MIL, a home series against a problematic Tampa Bay team and a West Coast road swing to SD and LA. If the Cardinals play .500 or better for the month, it may be time to believe something special is taking place. June's schedule is a bear (18 road games and interleague play), so much lay ahead. But even the most ardent optimists, such as FSN Midwest's Jim "Mr. Bubbles" Hayes, has to be surprised by the team's overall quality of play.

LPD: Supreme Chatmeister,
Thank you for doing the JSL!!! live chat every week so fans have an authoritative source to go to with questions. My question: Why do you think we have seen so little of Brian Barton lately? TLR keeps trotting Duncan out there game after game even though he isn't hitting well, but Barton sits and sits again. I've heard that he's putting in a lot of work on his defense with the coaches, but even with that work and even with the 7-0 lead last night, Barton still doesn't get to play, other than to pinch hit? Your thoughts?

Joe Strauss: Barton received a critical at-bat in Monday's loss. He's not being buried. He's a (recite after the ChatMeister) a developing player who, as you suggest, is working daily to improve his defense. It's difficult for TLR to keep him in the field during late innings of close games. Barton is hitting .316 in 38 at-bats as we speak. He's been a pleasant surprise. I think those wanting to see more might credit the manager with finding fair matchups for a guy who entered the season with only 87 at-bats above Double-A.

Alan Schmidt: All Hail The Chatmeister!

Joe: Do you think if the NL had the DH, Wainwright and Looper would hit for Molina when they weren't pitching? Seriously, the guy drives me crazy! He left five runners in scoring position in two at bats Monday, and we lost by one run. Is it too much to ask for a little production from the backstop spot? LaRue can't hit his height, much less his weight, and Yadi, well, that little pickoff play to first of his is a dandy, but his defense doesn't come close to offsetting his lack of offense. I guess that given his long contract and membership in the Inner Sanctum or whatever they call it, we should just get used to this? If Albert is El Hombre, Yadi is El Easy Out! Thanks for a great job every week. Alan Schmidt, Chico, CA

Joe Strauss: Perhaps a little harsh, but Molina is lagging with runners in scoring position, a situation he thrived in two years ago. Edwin Encarnacion made a game-saving play against Molina in Monday's seventh inning, diving and throwing from his knees for an inning-ending force. Molina is currently 4-for-23 (.190) with two strikeouts RISP compared to .302 in non-RISP situations. He hit .239 RISP last season. Molina's speed hurts him, obviously. It can be argued that his defense does, indeed, offset his offense. He may, however, be miscast as a No. 6 hitter.

Mike: Joe,
Love what you do, articles and JSL.... Thanks

Can you please help me understand why LaRussa is having Cesar play SS hitting under .200 while Ryan is hitting over .300. I know that Ryan has had less playing time, but shouldn't LaRussa see how long Ryan can keep this up, so that we have a better understanding if Ryan is an everyday shortstop?

thanks,
Mike

Joe Strauss: TLR loves Izturis' defense and is willing to accept his bat as No. 9 hitter. You may expect to gradually see Ryan receive more time. This is my seventh year covering TLR and I would be very surprised to see him turn over SS to a young player perceived as inconsistent. Agree or disagree, the manager feels Ryan still has much to prove. Izturis has won a Gold Glove and has worked to make himself an offensive factor (.350 OBP despite a .212 average before Wednesday). Ryan has never been a high walk guy and never has hit more than five home runs in a professional season.

Tom Mitchell: What's the latest on Matt Clement? Have not heard his name mentioned for quite awhile.

Joe Strauss: Clement is projected at least a month away from entering a rehab assignment. As mentioned here before, anything he provides this season should be considered a bonus.

Tackleberry: JSL,

I am now chuckling,that there was a contingent within the St Louis media/fan-base who thought pursuing Matt Morris during this off-season was a good idea. All I can say is "thank goodness for too much pitching."

What is the story with Clement?

Joe Strauss: Clement was just addressed. As for the Cardinals' interest in Morris last July, I still have one question: Why? That deal hastened Dave Littlefield's ouster as Pirates GM. To me, it seemed like another example of the Cardinals' reunion tour following a World Series run. It made little sense then. It makes absolutely none now. Morris was a great pitcher for the Cardinals for five seasons. His shoulder simply gave out, forcing him to become a breaking ball pitcher. When his breaking pitch deserted him, Mo' became defenseless. Consider him retired and wish him the best.

Vianden: I have watched two of Pinero's on-the-mound kick-saves on TV; I understand there have been three. Is this "play" as unusual as one would think? Will he be on the mound all season to maybe accomplish more?

Joe Strauss: There are 13 million reasons why you will receive regular doses of Pineiro the next two seasons. Games like Tuesday's (7 innings, 1 hit, 0 runs) don't hurt his case, either. Perhaps a soccer background has helped Joel's dexterity.

Jeff Krause: Hey Joe I keep hearing how the Cardinals need an impact bat. The only upgrade that could be made is shortstop, and teams do not let impact bats at shortstop get away. With that being said is Michael Young somebody the Cardinals could aquire for the stretch run and what would it take. Or do you think it is best to not mess with the chemistry of the club. Possibly only adding a lefty reliever at the deadline such as Marte?

Joe Strauss: Good question: The Cardinals may be better served (and better equipped) to land a LH reliever. Young is seen by many as a player in decline with diminishing power and an unwieldy contract. Marte's name has been floated before. His current stats are skewed by an early disaster, but the Pirates lefthander has struck out 11 against three walks while taking damage in one of his last 10 outings.

BradV: My favorite day of the week.... JSL day.... It should be considered a holiday!
It looks like Mulder is getting pretty close to joining the rotation, do you think Wellemeyer has made made the decision of who to send to the bullpen a little more difficult? Who is the next person to be sent down.... surely it won't be McClellan, will it???

Joe Strauss: McClellan has done plenty to solidify his standing on the club. Based on today's performance in Memphis and the vibe emanating from the manager's office, I don't see Mulder's arrival as imminent. Wellemeyer intrigues pitching coach Dave Duncan and may hold an edge over Looper. The domino effect will necessitate a RH reliever be optioned. Barring a trade, that would appear to be Reyes. But I wouldn't dismiss a trade. We're still talking weeks regarding Mulder... Candidates for Missouri governor should take your suggestion and run on a platform of designated every Wednesday as JSL!!! day, and make it a state holiday for government workers. My information is that's pretty much the case every WED from 1-3 p.m.

Patrick from Austin: Oh great Chatmeister,
Grew up in STL, but living in Austin for past 10 years. Izzy blew it against the Stros last Friday, but I was surprised by the intensity of the booing that came across the TV. It seems the fans have a pretty short fuse with the guy. This confuses me, since looking at Izzy's stats the last several years he is one of the top closers in the game. Am I misinterpreting the fans dislike of Izzy? If not, what do you attribute this too?

Joe Strauss: Ignorance?

Steve: Joe!!!

It seems that pitchers are walking more people this year. Not just Cardinals pitchers, but around the league. Pinearo last night was a great example. One hit, and four walks. Is this becoming a new trend. Nibble on the edges and see if they get themselves out and if you walk them so be it?

Joe Strauss: Au contraire, Steverino... Cardinals pitchers had walked 78 entering today's game, fewest in the NL. The Cardinals have adopted a more selective approach this season, to be sure. They entered today's game with 140 walks, leading the major leagues. Coincidentally, they lead the NL in on-base percentage. The issue is efficiency. The Cards ranked fifth in runs scored and were closer to 12th than 1st.

Travis P: Long time listener, first time caller... Several online bloggers have been hoping to see Kennedy in the 2nd spot for some time now. Last night Tony finally gave it a go and it was a success. Small sample size aside, what do you think of batting Kennedy (or Ryan) in the 2 spot and how long do you think it will last?

Keep up the great work! You've helped this Cards fan survive in Chicagoland.

Joe Strauss: JSL!!! advocated a "smurf" arrangement last week with Kennedy or Miles advancing to the No. 2 spot in the order. However, we also suggested the pitcher bat in the conventional No. 9 spot. Regardless, I expect to see more Kennedy hitting second against RH pitching. This allows TLR to drop another power bat behind Pujols, which is what the ChatMeister has advocated since, oh, the third game this season.

Ryan: What are the chances of us seeing the lineup TLR used last night vs. Cincy more frequently?

I personally liked it a lot - Kennedy is a good fit in the 2 spot with his current average, and I like how the bigger bats go deeper in the lineup behind Albert. Now if only Brendan Ryan could solidify that SS gig and #9 spot in the lineup . . .

Joe Strauss: OK, we get the point.

The D.L.: Nine runs in 3 2/3 innings: good, bad or indifferent? Or some combination thereof?

Joe Strauss: As one card player told another when his two pair cracked aces; "That is no goooooood!!!

Bill Caldwell: The Cards seem to be leaving a lot of men on base. How do they compare to the rest of the league?

Joe Strauss: The Cardinals entered Wednesday having stranding a league-high 231 runners, a pace for 1,386 this season. Last year's team stranded 1,167.

Troy in Florissant: Mr. Strauss,

I have been impressed with the Cardinals ability to post a decent offensive output without much help from the long ball. Are you surprised by this development? I know the conventional wisdom was that they would be a feast or famine outfit that would rely on the Home run.

How about an early line on the Mizzou - Illinois tilt in September?

As always, your input is greatly appreciated. All hail JSL!!!

Joe Strauss: Nothing has impressed the ChatMeister more about this offense. The attack has been much more patient and been typified by much better at-bats. I believed this would be a softball attack. So far: wrong answer. Of course, outstanding starting pitching has allowed the club to consistently play from ahead. The Carinals are 13-5 when scoring first.
As for Mizzou-Illini... I haven't checked BoDog, but the JSL!!! line would promote the Tigers as 8-9 point favorites.

chris: I read on mlbtraderumors.com that Oswalt would waive his no trade clause for a few teams and the Cardinals are one of them. I know that the Cards could potentially have 8-9 starters when everyone returns from the DL but Oswalt is ....well Oswalt. The Cards have chips to trade finally... do you think it's realistic to get him?

Joe Strauss: Not if Pineiro is healthy, Wainwright is productive and Carpenter is expected back in July. Lohse looks solid. I don't see it as intelligent to trade promising young players within the division for a pitcher owed $45 million the next three years. Oswalt is not the same guy who killed the Cardinals in 2005. It doesn't add up for where this franchise appears headed.

Fuhrig: Oh, Schnackmeister (Chatmeister in northern German dialect):

-- The timing of Brad Thompson's disabled listing is, um, convenient. Is there anything there beyond the average soreness of a major-league elbow, or is it a legit problem? Could this hurt his trade value six weeks from now?

-- What's your evaluation of Kennedy? Is he fully back? Has his defense improved over last season? He's hitting almost a Benjamin higher than last 2007, now at .314 BA with an Ecksteinish .364 OBP, but a decidedly undamaging .357 slugging percentage. That's not La Russa's prototype for "damage" in the 2-hole but singles and walks ahead of Pujols seem like the best best to force opponents to pitch to Der Mann (German for El Hombre).

Joe Strauss: Thompson denied having a problem until after being optioned. Sure, it's curious but it is also legitimate. He saw a team doctor and Cincinnati Reds orthopedic Dr. Timothy Kremchek and was diagnosed with inflammation around the joint. Obviously, being on the DL doesn't do much for one's trade value. I would expect Thompson to eventually return to Memphis. How his current activity affects his prospects to start is an unanswered question... Kennedy is a much more "live" player than last season. He may not be an "impact" bat in the order of Duncan, Ankiel or Larry Walker, but he resembles a table-setter for Pujols.

Rich (Sun Valley, ID): Mr. Strauss-
I feel like I am time traveling or in an alternate universe. I leave the country on a sailboat after one Cardinal game on April 3rd, have no e-mail or phone access for 3.4 weeks and return to find the Cardinals...... with 17 wins? SEVENTEEN WINS????? How can there NOT be a God? Joe, should I leave again to keep this going, or do you think this might be for real? Pinero looked FABULOUS last night!

Joe Strauss: If I were you, I'd sail around the world and return Sept. 28. Of course, going without JSL!!! for five months would be intolerable.

Paul Greenlee: When he was signed, it was intimated that Kyle Lohse was either a head case or a bad club house guy. Based on the chemistry and comments made by players and observers, the Cardinals seem to have a great group. How is Lohse as a team player and in the club house?

Joe Strauss: Lohse did carry the rep of a questionable clubhouse guy. The Minnesota Twins were glad to get rid of him several years ago. However, he's been outstanding here and meshed well with the pitching coaches. It's theorized that Lohse is not a guy who wants to be portrayed as The Man, that he's comfortable making a contribution every fifth day and remaining below the radar. The current rotation is a good blend. Several players endorsed Lohse to GM John Mozeliak before he was signed. No beef here.

Tim Wiegand: Joe,
How do you see this outfield shaping up for the rest of the year? Will 3 players distinguish themselves enough to be full time starters by September or, dare I say it, October?

Tim Wiegand
Grabill, IN

Joe Strauss: It's the opinion at JSL!!! that this outfield is better served by a mix-and-match arrangement.
Duncan 17 starts in LF, Barton 7.
Schumaker 14 starts in RF, Ludwick 13... If it ain't broke...

Pete: Could you please tell me which horse will win the derby? Please throw in a dark horse pick as well. Thanks...

Joe Strauss: You want XMAS in May?
Here's the ChatMeister's Christmas Tree trifecta...

Pyro and Adriano over...
Pyro, Adriano and Visionaire over...
Pyro, Adriano, Visionaire, Cool Coal Man and Tale of Ekati...
JSL!!! predicts Big Brown will be exposed as a fraud, leaving to a monster payout. Royalties can be sent to the Post-Dispatch, 900 N. Tucker St. St. Louis, MO.

Joe Strauss: With my distribution of free money, that will have to hold you for this week. Thanks again. We return next Wednesday under more ordinary circumstances. As promised, there is a major announcement pending about the May 14 chat. We promise it will bring about a SuperTsunami of interest much like that generated during Winter Meetings and John Mozeliak's spring training appearance. More later!!! Adios, muchachos!!!