Janice from Memphis: O wise controller of the pounding surf that heralds the tsunami, did Tony La Russa seem at all relieved to be done with the drama surrounding Izzy this year? I know there have been some "uncomfortable" conversations between the two this year when TLR refused to return Izzy to his closer role. Is their relationship so strained that Izzy wouldn't consider working with the younger pitchers at some point? Were his teammates really surprised when the Cardinals announced that Isringhausen was going on the DL?

Joe Strauss: Yes, there has existed a degree of tension.
No, I don't envision Izzy has some sort of surrogate coach.
No, a number of teammates were not surprised to learn that Izzy was headed to the DL. (He likely won't arrive until Friday, when Wainwright is activated.)

Brian: why are reports saying Izzy's career is over? Has he said he wouldn't try to rehab, or is the injury THAT serious?

Joe Strauss: He indicated to some teammates and staff Tuesday that "I'm done." He could change his mind, but his comments were construed to mean he was done pitching. To be continued.

Steve from SoCo: Oh great wave-master...

long time reader....first time poster.

It was nice that Mo took time to participate. Was it just me, or is it quite obvious that Izzy has put the Cards uni on for the last time? Seems like an obvious reference in his last post. It is unfortunate that it ended this way, and I really appreciate everything Izzy did in the Cards uniform, but I also agree it is time to move on. It would be nice if fans would have a fitting way to say thank you to him for his efforts.

Joe Strauss: I agree. The question remains whether Izzy would want to be honored by fans who booed him heavily in two of his last three seasons with the club.

Tom in Indy: Oh great Tsunami, I forsee a logjam at third base in our minor league system with a lot of good potential. With the logjam in the outfield as well, who do you see as most likely being trade bait?

Joe Strauss: Craig would seem to be blocked at 3B. He has power but is a defensive question. David Freese has had an outstanding year and, according to some, should be among the leading candidates as Cardinals Minor League Player of the Year. (The ChatMeister will announce his ruling in a future chat.) Jon Jay is an interesting player whose skills are not that different from S. Schumaker. Big difference; Schumaker has shown his production translates to the major leagues and is not arbitration eligible until after the '09 season. OF Daryl Jones qualifies as the system's breakout talent this season. C Bryan Anderson is obviously an intriguing guy, since the Cardinals are committed long-term to Y. Molina. The Cardinals are also heavy in RH pitching.

cje81: In Mo's chat, he oultined four of next year's starters as Carp, Waino, Wellemeyer, and Pineiro. What is your best guess as to the fifth member of the rotation?

Joe Strauss: An additional veteran arm not currently with the club.