Creston: Great to have you back for another lunch hour recess from work. I'm certain 99% of your inbox is filled with concerns/questions about Waino and El Hombre, so I'm going to throw something different at you. I'm coming to St. Louis for the 4th of July game (Cards vs. Scrubs), wondering what type of festivies can be expected at and around the park? I am amped for this game, paid way to much for tickets, but this has to be my most ideal way to spend the 4th of July. Any suggestions on where to eat close to Busch that isn't a chain or super expensive?

Joe Strauss: J. Buck's by the park is pretty good. Shannon's is pricy but good. Personally, I've got nothing against the White Tower drive through. Four burgers, chicken rings and a XL Diet Dr. Pep can fulfill your caloric intake in 15 minutes. Caution: Service at Buck's is quicker than at W.T.

Alan Schmidt: Most Venerated Chatmeister,

Do you know if Ludwick will hit #3 with Albert out, or what the plan is? Also, do you think Duncan will get a lot of DH time in the upcoming interleague games as a showcase for a possible trade? I note also that in helping Albert off the field last night, Molina demonstrated that at least in certain limited situations he can pick up a runner! (Please forgive me if I have exceeded the maximum sarcasm limit for JSL!!!)

Alan Schmidt
Chico CA

Joe Strauss: Ludwick is hitting No. 3 tonight. Duncan is made to order as a DH. Wow, your observation about the Cardinals' catcher is very biting, almost worthy of morning drive time radio. (Penalty will be enforced on the kickoff.)

Colin B: How soon will the Card's sign Brett Wallace and is there really a chance that he'll play for Palm Beach? If so, who was the last player drafted by the Card's to go straight to Palm Beach after the draft?

Joe Strauss: I haven't researched your second question. I can tell you it is more likely Wallace starts at Quad Cities. I noted he could go "as high" as Palm Beach. I have since learned that is not likely, though possible.

KDC: Joe, Why didn't the team do an MRI on Albert the first time he got hurt?

Joe Strauss: They scheduled one. He declined. Next question.

Tom in Indy: All right oh Great One, I'll cut right to the point. What is the status of El Hombre and how long will he be out? Also, what is the talk of Wainwright. You just get the feeling that the whole story isn't getting told there?

Joe Strauss: El Hombre should be leaving his appointment soon. I will have information you can find on STLToday. Better yet, invest 75 cents in tomorrow's product.