Joe Strauss: All right, all right. Everybody back up for another rousing session of Joe Strauss Live!!! back at its regular time and place. Negotiations are ongoing regarding postseason JSL!!! but you can rest easy that there are at least two more satisfying and delicious free-wheeling sessions to discuss all things Cardinal with the ChatMeister. The locals are playing their way back into the wild-card scrum despite last week's 1-5 road wipeout. Many thanks should be directed to the Milwaukee Brewers, who appear poised to repeat September fade. We've got many surfers waiting to hit the board. They've already found the cyber-equivalent of the perfect wave. Here comes the tsunami, So Let's Get It On!!!

Jon: Oh chatmiester,

I have a question concerning pujols having surgery. I was wondering how long it will take for pujols to recover from the elbow surgery and if he will be able to start the season on time? I enjoy reading the chats every week, keep up the good work.

Joe Strauss: Here's the deal:
My information leading up to the latest spillover is that it is more likely than not that El Hombre will undergo elbow surgery immediately after the season. Albert flatly denied that Tuesday, insisting he has no plans to undergo ligament replacement before next season unless it blows out. Albert is scheduled to make a tour of the Dominican in November and wants to play in next March's World Baseball Classic, though he insists the WBC does not dictate his stance on surgery. Any surgery would involve an 8-month rehab. If he had the procedure Oct. 1, that would put him on track for an early June return. However, surgery would also effect his off-season conditioning program. Albert is leery of the recovery. Cesar Izturis says it took him two years to fully recover, though the demands of SS are different from 1B. Albert's history is one of quick recoveries, but I see now way he could be ready to go Opening Day. Stay tuned. Asked about the situation after last night's game, TLR did not rule out the possibility of pending surgery for his first baseman. There will be a meeting in the next two weeks about it.

Fuhrig: Oh Great and Mighty Tsunami-meister,

Why would Pujols consider surgery when he's on a six-week hot streak and the elbow isn't bothering him? It could endanger his election and even participation in the All-Star Game in St. Louis next season. I have a few theories:
-- He's hurting more than he lets on.
-- Albert and the team are looking ahead to possibly moving to third base to clear a spot for Brett Wallace at first, maybe by 2010.
-- Pujols wants to get the elbow fixed, rehabbed and have time to put up big numbers well ahead of the end of his contract in 2011. I wouldn't begrudge him that, either.

There's more to this story than we've heard.

Joe Strauss: Albert insists his discomfort is nowhere close to what it was last season. His performance suggests a July cortisone injection has alleviated much of whatever discomfort he has been experiencing. The elbow has not been drained this season, he says, after requiring several taps last year. It is not swollen, though he can not straighten the arm. I believe Albert is a first baseman for the rest of his career. He is a Gold Glove defender there. Moving him makes little sense. The complete story hasn't been written but I don't see the conspiracy you're suggesting.

Kevin Weber: Is Josh Phelps a free agent after this year?

Joe Strauss: Only if the Cardinals remove him from their 40-man roster. Otherwise, he is arbitration-eligible.

PGBarber: My wife is hoping to hear the words, "Hey, Honey, I rode the biggggggggggg wave today," when I crawl in to bed tonight.

Mr. Strauss,
If LaRussa let you make out the lineup for tonight's game against the Cubs, what would it look like? I'm tired of seeing Izturis hitting leadoff.

Thanks!

Joe Strauss: I would think it even more special if the missus informed you that she wanted to ride the "bigggggggggg wave." Your comment reminds me of an incident in Phoenix on the team's last road trip. A female 30-something ChatHead ID'd the ChatMeister and breathlessly volunteered, "I'd love to hang 10 on the Big Swell." When I informed Lady Diablo that I may have heard the perfect motto for JSL!!!, she was strangely not amused.
If TLR turned over his lineup card, Pujols would bat cleanup and the pitcher would swing ninth. There would be other novelties and the team would score double digits. But it ain't happening.

donald s box: Hey Joe why didn;t the cards bring up freese, to at lease get a look at him phasing major league pitching. And whats all this talk about carpenter closing games.If i was calling the shots for this team i would shut him down for the the remainder of the season.

Joe Strauss: He's not on the major-league roster and the club typically refrains from elevating younger players merely for the sake of a "look see". Never mind that it also costs a month's major-league salary (about $67,500). I asked your question today of a front office member and was flatly told Freese will not be seen in St. Louis this month. As stated here before his lone relief appearance, Carpenter is not 100 percent "right." Otherwise, he wouldn't have been shoehorned into the bullpen to begin with. The possibility of him closing was a throwaway line from the manager. It ain't happening. It appears increasingly likely that Carp' will be limited to a weekly cameo, if that, the rest of the way.

Will G: Mr. Strauss,

I'm a long time surfer of the tsunami but this is my 1st question (actually one comment & one question).

The question is do you see a (or several) potential free agent pitchers this off season beyond C.C. or Sheets that would be a great fit with this team for the next several years (in particular, perhaps a Suppan-like pitcher)?

The comment is have we ended the argument on whether Wainwright should start or close?

P.S. - The content you provide to the readers of the Post is great. You do a great job of balancing candor and honesty with the readers while maintaining a civil tone and respectful relationship with the team you cover and should be commended for doing so. Thanks for the weekly chats and hopefully we can get you the raise you deserve.

Joe Strauss: Here are some names to chew on:
Looper, Lohse, Derek Lowe, Oliver Perez, Carl Pavano, AJ Burnett and Jon Garland. I question whether the Cardinals will go beyond 3 years for any free agent pitcher. They had interest in Pavano before he signed with the Yankees. He fits the bounce-back profile the Cardinals seem to favor. Lowe is an intriguing guy who may develop an aggressive market. As stated here before, IF Carpenter is healthy, it makes a lot of sense to retain either Lohse or Looper as a No. 3 or 3 1/2 starter behind Carp' and Adam Wainwright, though I believe Lohse may be more adamant about getting top dollar. I don't believe the Cardinals will be serious players for CC or Sheets. Please forward your thoughts about my financial well-being to sports editor Reid Laymance. I know he'd love to hear from you.

San Diego Paul: Dear Joe,
Chris Carpenter's ability to pitch effectively is critical to
the Cardinals success next year. This season is over for the Cardinals.
Why then, if Carpenter's shoulder is bothering hime at all, would the Cardinals risk further injury by pitching him this year? I don't understand the reasoning.
San Diego Paul

Joe Strauss: The Cardinals do not agree with your assessment that their season is over. There is also a desire to find out if Carpenter can throw without discomfort or weakness before the offseason. There is still concern.

Brian: hey Joe,

Living well out of the St. Louis market, I only get to catch about a dozen Cardinals games a year so I haven't got to see Ankiel a whole lot this year. But from what I've seen, he seems to have serious issues hitting any kind of breaking ball. I know guys can survive off just being fast ball / guess hitters, but that's a very streaky player that can lift or kill a team, depending on the day. Is my assessment accurate, or have I just caught some of his not so great games at the plate?

On the same note, is there any chance the Cardinals will deal Ankiel this offseason? ( signability reasons, or for any other reason )

Joe Strauss: Ankiel was on pace for a big year until suffering an abdominal "strain" almost two months ago. He has not been the same player since and may actually be dealing with a sports hernia. I'm sure we'll find out more after the season. Ankiel still has holes in his swing and has been exploited with fastballs up and breaking stuff down and out of the zone. He's still developing as a hitter. However, he has massive power and will only become a more dangerous hitter once he gains more confidence against off-speed stuff and tightens his strike zone. I believe physical issues are compromising him.

Brian: why would Carpenter be used in the closer's role? Is this LaRussa's way of giving Perez a reality check, or LaRussa thinking out loud, that it's just an option?

Joe Strauss: Perez and Franklin will work save chances. Those hyperventilating about Carpenter pitching the ninth need to breathe into a paper bag.

mike kriz: given the extra pitchers we have with the sept call-up why does LaRussa keep using ron villone when all he seems to do is walk the one batter he comes in to get out?

Joe Strauss: As much as the organization likes to commend itself for its increased depth, there is little lefthanded pitching at the higher minor-league levels. Jaime Garcia will likely miss next season after this week's TJ surgery. Villone is a veteran who was more reliable earlier this season. He's walked three of five hitters faced this month and allowed six of last 10 hitters faced to reach since Aug. 24. Villone has faced only 27 hitters (striking out two) since the end of July. Apparently the manager does have an issue with that.

redbirdswin: It seems like some folks are picking Brett Wallace to become a future trade chip for the Cardinals, since 1st base is occupied and 3rd base is taken next year (Glaus) and perhaps years beyond that (Freese). Do you think the Cards would deal this hit machine because of his limited defensive ability/availability, or do you think he'll have a spot in the Cards' future plans based on his bat alone?

Joe Strauss: Few teams draft a guy intending to trade him the next year (or two). Wallace is considered an impact bat. He doesn't have to be Brooks Robinson at third base. (Albert wasn't.) The hope is he won't be Ryan Braun, either.

Fuhrig: Oh, Great and Mighty Chatmeister,

Why is the failure to reach the post-season an apparent disqualifying factor for MVP when a Cardinal should win -- Pujols in 2008, McGwire in 1998 -- but not for players on other teams, like Ryan Howard in 2006 or Lance Berkman this year?

Joe Strauss: Each year is different and it's a subjective vote. Many of the same people who decried the vote for Bonds based on percentages rather than raw numbers now champion Pujols for the same reason. If the Cardinals remain in play for the rest of this month, I believe El Hombre has a solid chance. If the Astros leap-frog the Cardinals, Lance Berkman becomes a more attractive candidate to some. Aramis Ramirez, David Wright, Braun and the surging Carlos Delgado will receive consideration. Albert is hitting almost .400 the last six weeks. I was far more dismissive of his chances 2-3 weeks ago than I am now. The belief that he has played this season hurt will also enhance his credibility among some voters.

Indy Joe: Joe- Why is the the criteria for the MVP award and the Cy Young not the same? My point is the Cy Young goes to the pitcher with the best stats period. It does not matter if they are on a division winner or even a winning team for that matter. Example, Steve Carlton with a lousy Phiilies team in the early 70's and this year Cliff Lee from the Indians is destined to win in the AL. However, for some reason that makes absolutely no sense to me the MVP is not judged the same way. If it were ElHombre would be a shoe in this year. I predict he won't win it because the Cardinals are not likely to make the playoffs. This seems grossly unfair, he is having a incredible year in a year when really no other player in the NL can compare with him stat wise. Would be interested in your take on this.

Joe Strauss: Well, you have to pitch to win the Cy Young Award, so naturally the criteria are different, I.J. That said, the Cy Young is presented to the best pitcher. The MVP carries the connotation of "valuable." A player's worth is enhanced if he contributes to a winning team. Otherwise, the BBWAA would call its award the MOP (Most Outstanding Player). I chuckle a little at the stat argument. Until this week Ryan Ludwick led the Cardinals in home runs and RBI but nobody was driving the PimpMobile for his candidacy. I agree Pujols is a more proven impact player. But don't paint with such broad strokes. You can make the award fit a number of players based on personal bias. There are some who worship at the altar of The Walk (the OBPS crowd). I'm more of a traditionalist who values batting average (a plus for El Hombre). It's not "unfair" if others see a subjective award differently. Otherwise, just appoint a talking head, BBWAA President or columnist king for a day and let him decide the award, since anyone who disagrees must be a moron.

redbirdswin: Joe,

With Troy Glaus missing time at third, who do you think will get the bulk of his playing time? Felipe Lopez seems like the obvious choice right now, but is there any chance that David Freese gets a shot and makes his Cardinal debut this season?

Joe Strauss: Asked and answered. Lopez will see much time at third. I don't believe Brendan Ryan will receive the same exposure as he might have last year. Adam Kennedy may benefit, escaping TLR's double wide doghouse to play a little more second base with Miles and Ryan.

TechnoPhobia: El Diablo, you have been a goldmine this year! Any word from MLB re: Kyle Lohse's 5 day suspension dating back to the Cincy game where Volquez hit Felipe Lopez but Lohse got suspended???

Joe Strauss: The club had received no word, as of noon today. The longer a ruling takes, the more volatile the issue. If the suspension is upheld, Lohse will miss a start within a pennant race. My sense is that the sentence may be abridged, making it mostly symbolic and, at worst, an inconvenience if he has to be bumped back several days.

elms@email.unc.edu: from Elena GEE

Mr Strauss, you may not be inclined to answer this on your chat. But I'll ask anyway: Why does the Post Dispatch lower itself by giving such prominence to the Fan Forums? It is, as you called it, a bunch of "adult kindergarteners", spewing negativity, lies, insults and ridiculous rumors. Before the new version of the PD site, it was safely hidden from view. Now the headings are shown as if they were real news story headlines. I read several other on-line newspapers. None of them give such visibility to this on-line equivalent of hate-radio sports call-in shows.

Joe Strauss: "Negativity, lies, insults and ridiculous rumors?" For a moment, I thought you were quoting TLR's media critiques from a recent postgame press conferences. Newspapers more and more are seeking "interactivity" with readers. It's one reason the JSL!!! tsunami was born. (Little did the P-D know the national sensation it would become.) Any time you invite opinions, you'll encounter stuff you disagree with. Some of it is half-cocked, gratuitous and "negative." Some of it is entertaining. Ultimately, the reader has the right to ignore it. Some see the on-line aspect as one of our paper's strengths. You are certainly authorized to disagree.

Susan: is there any word on renewing the contract between STL and the Memphis Redbrids. I understand 9/17 is the last day this can be done.

Joe Strauss: Good question, Sue. But shouldn't that be "Tsu"?
The Cardinals must notify MLB and the National Association of their intent to extend their relationship with Memphis in a matter of days. The parties then have several more weeks to finalize a 2- or 4-year agreement. The Redbirds are experiencing financial problems due to debt service of their $82 million AutoZone Park. My information is they're looking for someone to buy the franchise, but the Cardinals so far appear disinclined. Should the parties remain deadlocked on an agreement next month, MLB and the National Association can assign affiliates. That's not a good outcome but it's a possibility. Should the Redbirds find another buyer or merely stiffarm the Cardinals, places like New Orleans (not good) become an option. There are plenty of reasons to retain the St. Louis-Memphis relationship. However, the Redbirds are increasingly desperate for some kind of fiscal relief.

Terry in Dubai: The Tsunami reaches all the way to the sands of Arabia! Long-time fan and JSL!!! follower here thanking you for the best of Redbird forums.

LaRussa talks about the need for another impact bat. He and many others complain about an over-reliance on the HR to score, especially against good teams.

For 2009, does STL need an on-base guy more than a slugger? Can LaRussa live with an upgrade in the #2 hole rather than an RBI man?

I keep thinking if Adam Kennedy were the player he was 5 years ago, he'd be #2 in a very strong lineup. A SS or 2B like that Kennedy might be better value than the bigger names our fan base (and manager) will want.

Joe Strauss: TLR has been pretty consistent in his demand for another bat to place behind Pujols. Rafael Furcal is an interesting possibility as a SS/No. 2 hitter. But I believe the Cardinals may first look to invest in an impact bat to hit down in the order.

carooq: What about closer for 09? Is Perez the man?

If not, will the Cards spend premium dollars or prospects to get an experienced closer? Or will they hedge their bets by signing a LH reliever with some relief experience?

Joe Strauss: I'm skeptical about the Cardinals investing long-term big money in a closer with Perez having been groomed for the role. I think it more likely the club pursues an "insurance" guy for short-term money. A Dan Wheeler-type may work, though how the club addresses Russ Springer would impact such a move. An obvious need exists for LH relief help.

STLFANWI: Hi Joe,

After watching Motte in the last week and Perez over the last two months, one has to ask the question why weren't they pitching for the Cardinals earlier in the season? Granted, they are short on experience, but having the ability to throw in the high 90's would have offset inexperience. I'm not saying there would not have been bumps in the road, but if Motte/Perez could have saved just 5 of the 30 blown saves, the Cardinals vision of the playoffs would have been much clearer.

Joe Strauss: I'll clip and save for when either hits a rough patch. Perez blew consecutive save chances this month. Motte is a power arm but needs refinement. Your suggestion is shared by many. But it would have required writing off a 293-save guy (Izzy) and a veteran who deserved to make the '07 All-Star team in middle relief (Franklin). It usually takes a while, especially for a decent club, to embrace the unknown over a known quantity.

Jeremy: Long-time listener, first-time caller. Is there any chance someone could tell Skip that the fastest way to first is not sliding. When watching many world records fall in the Olympics, I never saw Bolt dive accross the finish line. The only time he should be sliding is to avoid a tag. He's on his way toward a broken wrist.

Joe Strauss: Schu admits its a bad habit, like skipping a weekly session of JSL!!! Funny, I saw Usain Bolt break a world record by easing up near the finish line and spreading his arms. Just a hunch, but I don't believe TLR would favor Skippy Walk-off adopting such a style. I, personally, would love to see Schumaker strike a pose in foul territory a la Bolt after beating out his next infield hit.

CC: The Tsunami us Umami,

You starting to get that "Mulder" feeling yet when the teams talks about Carpenter's health?

Is there a Number 1 starter out there, that doesn't have an extensive injury history thats going to be a free agent this year?

Mo is going to have a take a "risk" at some point, don't you think?

Joe Strauss: Carp' and Waino can both be rated No. 1's if healthy. The club's determination about Carpenter is going to be one of its most critical calls this winter. I don't see the Cardinals doing a top-of-the-rotation guy, CC.

Troy in Florissant: Mr. Strauss,

The Cardinals handling of injury situations continues to baffle. Who is at the root cause of this craziness? The lunacy of the Pujols thing this week is just the latest fiasco. Does the ownership realize how foolish the team looks?

Pujols for MVP! Please handicap "El Hombre's chances of taking home the prize if the Cards do not make the postseason.

Thanks again for the chats. I have been trying to ween myself off the Tsunami a little each week to avoid having to go "Cold Turkey" at the end of the season. Is there a "JSL Anonymous?"

Joe Strauss: It's hard to blame the club for the recent Pujols flap except for the fact that they fed the uproar Tuesday by issuing a press release that invited more questions than it answered. By stipulating that Pujols' elbow does not repesent a season-threatening injury... well, duh. He's going to play the next 2 1/2 weeks then get re-evaluated. The crux is whether he has a procedure after the season. It is true that handling of injury information has undermined the organization's credibility on such matters.
If Albert stays hot the rest of the way, wins a batting title and drives in 100+ runs, I like his chances.

HEG: Joe I hope the Cards do not offer Ankiel a 3 or 4 year contract at the end of this season worth 30 to 40 million; he has struggled the 2nd half of season both offensively and on defense; the pitchers have adjusted to Ankiel but he has not adjusted; I like Mather, Ludwick in the outfield for next year and maybe they could get a left-handed bat in outfield thru free agency or by trade; I like Lopez as utility player for next year; also I believe Shoe would fill 4th outfield spot- he needs to adjust to lefty pitching; also I believe they could keep Izturis if they could get an impact bat at 2nd base; agree or disagree with these statements?

Joe Strauss: The club likely won't do anything long-term with Ankiel after this season. He does not represent a colossal arbitration risk. Ank's agent, Scott Boras, typically doesn't do long-term deals when free agency is on the horizon. In this case, it may be mutually beneficial to wait. I don't envision Mather as anything more than a bench bat next season. Ludwick, Schu', Ankiel and Duncan are locks barring a trade. Rasmus, Mather and Barton will compete next spring. That said, I firmly believe the club will move one, if not two, outfielders this winter. Lopez stays at Kennedy or Miles' expense. An impact bat at 2B would make retaining Izturis a logical move. Finding an impact bat at 2B is not easy, however.

Craig S: Joe, Look into your crystal ball _ Is Ankiel & Glaus done for the season? will Tony make the leap to a GM position?, Will Oquendo assume the role? Do you see Lohse in a Cardinal uniform for 2009

Joe Strauss: I'm skeptical about Glaus' return. He's had a shoulder issue for several weeks and left a game because of pain. He had an MRI today and more should be known later this afternoon. Ankiel is clearly at less than 100 percent, maybe less than 75 percent. His production has fallen dramatically and he is no longer able to cover enough ground to play CF. I know it's a minority opinion, but I see value in promoting Rasmus (if indeed he's healthy). The guy can play OF and run. Right now Ankiel appears at a dramatic disadvantage, if not downright overmatched. I don't believe TLR is headed for a front office chair after this season.
If Lohse is not signed by the end of the World Series, he's a goner.

mike: Thanks for the opportunity. Just how big is Rasmuss's doghouse?

Joe Strauss: A double wide with a room addition planned upstairs.

joie: If indeed speculation/ projections come to fruition A J Burnett = Carpenter or Clement / Mulder and what is fascination with injured pitchers? can't ownership afford healthy arms? would much better spend Burnett money on someone with a healthy resume but than again that's just me

Joe Strauss: It is a called a "buy low, sell high" business model. The Cardinals have been reluctant to pay top dollar for free agents ever since outmaneauvering the Baltimore Orioles for Tino Martinez prior to the 2002 season. Just imagine if the Cardinals had successfully signed either Mike Hampton or Jason Schmidt in recent years. Oh, the humanity! Dumpster diving would be elevated to an art form by now. (Insert punch line here.)

Katy: It's been a few weeks since i've ridden the tsunami, but boy am i glad to be aboard the worldwide sensation known as JSL!!! So, most reverent ChatMeister, being 3.5 games out right now and with the Brewers sucking it up lately, do you think we do have a legit shot at the playoffs? Also, why does TLR keep running Villone out there, it seems he always walks his token one batter. Finally, with Lohse coming back to earth after the all star break, do the Cards still have interest in retaining him next year? I think he'd be an asset to the rotation, again. Thanks Joe, and you can be sure I'm spreading the news about the awesomeness known as JSL!!! to my friends here at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse (there are a few smart ones here, aka Cardinal fans).

Joe Strauss: We've already addressed Villone. As for Lohse, "value" is always a significant factor in the Cardinals' free agent pursuits. They are not inclined to go more than three years for any pitcher. And since they project Carpenter and Wainwright at the top of their rotation, it's difficult to envision them going beyond $9-$10 million for a No. 3 starter. Looper's numbers are roughly equivalent to Lohse. Remember the term: Value. Thanks for pimping JSL!!! to your friends. But if they haven't heard by now, they may be beyond help.

J.R.: Hey Joe,

Last night's game was a lot of fun. Have you heard anything on the "Sign Dave Duncan" front?

Joe Strauss: My information is that he and the club are close to an agreement. Stay tuned.

Jared: Oh powerful sentry of the tsunami, can you tell us how to "go green" with the OSU-USC game this weekend?

Isn't this typical of our Redbirds this year, win just enough to make us want to believe when rational thought tels us not to believe. With that being said I am not a doomsdayer and I am happy this team has played better than expected.

I have 2 questions, what middle infield options do you see as upgrades for next year? On the forums, Edgar Renteria and Orlando Cabrera's names are being bandied about. I have trouble believing Renteria can still perform at a high enough level and something must be wrong with Cabrera as far as chemistry, everywhere he goes he wins, yet teams shuttle him off immediately. And how ironic these two names come up and they don't like each other. What other attractive outside options do you see in middle infield?

My next question concerns the '09 rotation. I like Ben Sheets (although health concerns abound and price may be high). I am not a fan of Ryan Dempster, but he would look better in the "birds on the bat". Either of those pickups could be big if they perform, because you are also robbing a division competitor of talent. What other names do you see available that are plausible? I assume Derek Lowe is in the conversation.

Joe Strauss: I look for USC to roll. Lay the points, whatever that means. Cabrera is a legitimate name. I don't believe Renteria fits this team's needs at this point in his career. Some have lobbied for the Padres' K. Greene. His dropoff this season was stunning. He's a risk but with proven upside. Intriguing. I've mentioned pitchers previously. Lowe is in the conversation. Dempster may prove too pricey.

Greg: Joe,
If we're getting all this money off the books for next year, why couldn't be afford to pay Sabathia $80 million over 4 years? A rotation of Carpenter, Sabathia, Wainwright, Wellemeyer, and Looper/Lohse would be the best in the NL. Is that possible AND give Ankiel & Ludwick the necessary raises? Can't help but think our offense would be just fine if we could upgrade our starting pitching to that extent.

Joe Strauss: You would be committing $20M to Sabathia, $16M to El Hombre, $11.25M for Glaus and $14M for Carpenter. Assuming a $100M payroll, you would be more than 60 percent of payroll to four players. That's a dangerous imbalance. I don't see another $10M contract in the club's future this winter. I'm willing to be proved wrong.

Joe Strauss: That's going to have to hold you for another week. Thanks for your participation. The P-D web site crashed twice during the chat, meaning either that the tsunami swelled to unmanageable proportions or somebody stepped on the wrong switch somewhere. Props to those of you who already have flooded the sports department requesting offseason chat (and a commensurate salary bump for the ChatMeister). My guess is there will be a wrap chat the Wednesday following the season and we may inquire about another drop-in by GM John Mozeliak. Thanks again. Off to the stadium.