Joe Strauss: It is both the moment you've been waiting for and dreading -- the LAST regular-season edition of Joe Strauss Live!!! The past 26 weeks have provided an enjoyable ride for the ChatMeister and hopefully the ChatHeads. From here on, the chat will revolve around several staffers during the posteason. Following the conclusion to the Cardinals' season, JSL!!! may return on an as-needed basis. I know, I know. If it was truly as needed, we'd be going three hours every day. This offseason may prove more hectic than the regular season, so there's a chance we'll be talking frequently. Niceties aside, the Cardinals have hit an offensive pothole the last several weeks while clinching the division. TLR just noted on B. Miklasz's radio show that a need exists for a tighter focus. This bunch has five gaems to get it going before likely facing a tough LA Dodgers pitching staff. Should make for interesting observation. So far it looks like a light tight of questions. We may go short today so dive in quickly. LET'S GET IT ON!!!

renomike99: Joe, IMO Lugo has really helped St Louis this year. He is solid defensively and is a good option for TLR against left handers. Do you believe the Cardinals will be able to bring back Lugo next year. And, if so at what price??

Joe Strauss: Lugo is signed next year for $9 million and has a vesting option for 2010 ($9 million). The Red Sox are subsidizing next year's salary but the Cardinals would be on the hook for the option if it vests. Lugo is considered a stronger offensive player than defender. His versatility makes him a natural fit with Brendan Ryan and Skip Schumaker projected as next season's everyday middle infield against RH pitching.

Dave G.: Joe,

Thanks so much for the fine work that you and the rest of the PD staff do covering the Cardinals.

STL Today is the best source of Cardinal news for distant Red Bird fans such as myself (South Bend, IN).

Many have asked your opinion if the manager and pitching coach will return in 2010.

This inquiring mind wants to know if JSL will return in 2010?

Thanks again.

Dave G.

Joe Strauss: Good question. Nothing seems like a safe bet in our industry right now. Barring something unforseen or a "third-party publication or web site" swooping in, JSL!!! will likely return for its fourth season in 2010.

Ken: Joe,

Your job is to talk me down off this ledge. I envision a team that can't hit, can't close and has an iffy bench as we head to post season play. Also, is Smoltz now the third starter for the NLDS? Thanks.

Joe Strauss: Joel Pineiro remains the No. 3 starter, TLR insisted Tuesday. Fair to say as a Cardinals fan you see this team's warts more clearly than its opposition. The Phillies have bullpen problems at least as severe as this team's. The Dodgers always struggle against Cardinals pitching. The Rockies may become the "IT" team in October. They have intangibles working in their favor while constructing the league's best record the last four months. Don't jump yet.

NY Card Fan: Joe,

I had a little free time on my hands yesterday so I actually read "Gordo Live" (I didn't post anything though, Joe...I wouldn't dare step out on you). After reading some of Gordo's responses to Cardinal questions/comments, however, now I know why they call him "Hockey Guy"...

Joe Strauss: You're as much at fault as Gordo. Shame on you.