Eric: Hey Joe.

Well with the awful news that Albert got hurt last night, you should be getting a lot of questions on how long he will be out, replacements, etc.

So, I will go ahead and ask how long you think he will be out?

Thanks for your info.

Joe Strauss: I am getting a lot of questions about El Hombre. In fact, I just took a call from an editor hyperventilating about getting to ALBERT'S INJURY. We've made JSL!!! an unstoppable tsunami and now I'm getting a question about HOW TO DO THE CHAT!!!
As for Albert, he's being examined AS WE SPEAK!!! I don't know anything because I don't have George Paletta's office bugged. (At least that's what we want the Cardinals to think.) I anticipate Albert's calf condition is severe. I would be surprised if he's available anytime before the All-Star break and possibly before the trade deadline. I hope I'm wrong because his absence carries major implications for a team that has been entertaining to watch and (for the most part) a pleasure to cover. These guys are playing for each other. If you hear Grade III strain, start thinking about 2009 and the possibility of pre-emptive TJ surgery.

Lynn: Omniscient Chatmeister, the injuries to Pujols and Wainwright look (and sound) bad. Is there any hope that the Birds can keep the ship afloat without them? Will Carp start his rehab any time soon? How did Izzy look in Florida this week? What has he been working on?

Joe Strauss: Losing your ace and offensive hub on the same road trip is not cause for a balloon party. Wainwright's value extends beyond wins and losses because he consistently provides innings. The rest of the rotation has been productive but has yet to establish a consistent rhythm of starts lasting more than six innings. That could become a major problem on a bullpen without an obvious long man. Isringhausen got six outs on 21 pitches in Florida. Apparently he's not going for strikeouts but his command must be improved. Command was his issue before going on the DL. Tonight's appearance in Springfield should be illuminating. He's due to throw in St. Louis Friday and it's possible he may be activated sometime next week.

GSW: Joe,

I don't think I've mentioned it, but I really appreciate your work. I'm not in St. Louis (Dallas, for the past 20 years), and you give information that is available few, if any, other places - even if it doesn't always make you popular with the team. Thanks.

Joe Strauss: The ChatMeister not popular with the team? No way!!! I've been promised a seat next to Jim Hayes and TLR in the '09 Opening Day parade of convertibles. Your suggestion just popped the last chance for a JSL!!! balloon party today.

Troy in Florissant: Mr. Strauss,

A few quick hitters for the Chatmeister as I hold my breath regarding the severity of Albert and Wainwright's injuries:

1. Do you think Perez will be sent out when Izzy returns? Please say no.

2. What are your thoughts on the new arm slot business with Mulder?

3. Where would you expect Brett Wallace to start his career assuming he signs some time soon?

4. Dutrow vs. Desormeux. Who ya got?

As always, thanks for all that you do.

Joe Strauss: I foresee a bullpen of Izzy, Springer, Franklin, Villone, Flores, McClellan and Perez when the Izzynator is activated. How they will be used is the more difficult question.
Mulder is trying everything possible to become a factor. It's hard not to be skeptical about a guy who has thrown one way (or close to one way) for most of eight seasons now dropping down. That said, Mulder's velocity seems OK. I can't speak to his pitch movement or his stamina or ability to maintain this delivery for 5,6 or 7 innings. But he believes he's got a shot. Two weeks ago, he didn't.
Brett Wallace could start as high as Palm Beach.
I don't know if Dutrow is a shovel or a saw, but he strikes me as some kind of tool.

Jayman: The Cardinals drafted Brett Wallace a fist basemen. We already have Albert....so why draft a first basemen!

Joe Strauss: I have heard Wallace likened to a LH Bob Horner, another ASU alum. It is possible Wallace could project at third base early in his career. If his body or his abilities dictate, he could eventually move to first base. Remember: El Hombre is signed only through 2010 (with an option on '11). He is not a Cardinal for life yet. Wallace is likely at least two years away. (Glaus at 3B in '09).