Joe Strauss: All right, wave riders, the Tsunami has rolled back in from the palacial O'Hare Hilton. Last year MLB held its GM meetings at the Dana Point St. Regis overlooking the Pacific as a tune-up for the winter meetings at Bellagio in Vegas. This year we got stuck overlooking a tarmac as a prep for spending a week in December at the Indianapolis Marriott. This cost-cutting has gone a bit too far -- and the ChatMeister is a Marriott points hog!!! Whatever. I'm sure you feel my pain. Without further ado, let's dive into the mountain of questions awaiting for this week's edition of Joe Strauss Live!!!, a cyber-phenomemon no matter the day of the week. Last week we went three hours; this week we may the ride may be a little quicker. Boogie boarders out of the ocean. Time for full contact chat!!!

Kim Miller: Joe, The number 1 question facing the Cardinals is Matt Holiday. My feeling is you give him your best "All In" offer right now and tell him take it or leave it. A Bobby Abreu type contract with more years and a no trade clause would be a very fair offer. Don't get into a bidding war with yourself and Mr. Boras's imaginary big offers. Let the decision be quick and give yourself the whole winter to work on your needs. I would like Mr. Holiday back, but not at Albert money.

Also, what are your thoughts on the Cardinals offensive balance? I feel they rely on the long ball too much. Speed on the bases can be more disruptive. Our offense is too station to station, 1 base at a time. We need to be able to create innings and scoring opportunities by putting men in motion.

Thanks for your time.

Joe Strauss: Interesting point, especially since I heard a guest on St. Louis radio just note that Chone Figgins would be a better fit for the Cardinals than Matt Holliday. Now I know why this is called baseball's silly season. Guys with calculators, slide rules and "metrics" start hyperventilating with heart palpitations. The new craze is protecting Pujols from the front rather than behind. Interesting concept, since signing a Figgins-type would create a potential run of a LF to be named (Allen Craig?), Yadier Molina, Brendan Ryan, the pitcher, Skip Schumaker and Figgins behind each other in the lineup. Don't know about you but that doesn't make my heart skip a beat if I'm in the opposing dugout. If you believe Colby Rasmus is ready to hit 5th and that Ryan Ludwick is a true cleanup hitter, then the Figgins Solution should work for you. However, many would suggest a team coming off a 91-win season can be more ambitious. The ChatMeister does not genuflect at the Alter of the Walk. It's great to have run scorers, but a team requires more than two run-producers.
Abreu money (2y/$19M) for Holliday? Come on. I know many of you yearn for the return of WhiteyBall, but that's not the way the game is played today. It's also not the way the current manager runs a game.
The Cards are short a run-producer. Figgins is a guy who can play 3B or LF, steal some bases, hit both ways and score some runs. He's not Rickey Henderson. He would be a great addition if the Cardinals also address their primary need.

thewizard25: Have the Cardinals ever considered bringing back Ozzie Smith as a coach? Does Ozzie want to coach again? Knowing the history between Ozzie and Tony LaRussa, maybe I would guess it would not be feasible.

Also - why haven't the Cardinals retired any numbers besides Bruce Sutter's when he went into the Hall of Fame? There have been a lot of players who have been superb players who should get their numbers retired. (Darryl Kyle, Wille McGee, Vince Coleman, John Tutor, Tommy Herr to name a few)

Thanks so much!

Joe Strauss: There are few sure things in life: Ozzie never appearing within a TLR coaching staff is one of them.

cjworden99: Alright Joe - let me in, let me in - I wanna ride the waves! So it is sounding more and more like Holliday and Bay are out. Chone Figgins seems intriguing to me. I cannot believe the name Jermaine Dye is even coming up, the dude's broke down. Nady might be a good option. It is becoming very evident that DeRosa needs to be back here. I think if Ludwick is healthy he can hit behind Albert and consistently produce. I guess I am confused I just don't know where to go with this team and what they can actually do to get better. What say you almighty Chatmeister!

Joe Strauss: Again, Figgins is a nice fit for a team with several muscular offensive pieces. Right now, the Cardinals don't really fit that profile, barring Rasmus' rapid development into a 90-RBI guy. Agree with you about Dye. He nosedived last season and is a minus defender. DeRosa remains a good fit here. He represents the perfect No. 6 hitter for this club when healthy. However, he is receiving plenty of attention from both leagues. The Phillies have interest in Figgins and DeRosa. Note that the Phillies already possess a powerful offensive nucleus. Many of you have written off Holliday. I think that's premature. Serious questions exist about who will push his market. The Cardinals' slow-hand approach may be validated.

MOSportsFan: Joe,

Man, last weeks Tsunami was maybe the longest I've ever seen. Good job Joe, I appreciate your dedication to the job. You're expertise is invaluable to a Cards junkie like myself.

Question for ya

Why didn't the Cardinals ask for a 48 hour negotiating window for Holliday like the Mets got before they finalized their trade for Johan Santana? Back when they made the trade, I questioned to myself why they wouldn't pursue it. Everyone and their mother knew that Holliday's contract value was going to boom once he got back to his fimiliar stomping grounds, the National League. When the deal was first completed, you and other valuable insiders guessed that Holliday was looking at 3-4 yrs 13 million a year, but if he hit well in Cardinal Red, Boras was going to look for 20 mill per season. That's why I didn't understand why the Cardinals didn't ask for that 48 hour window. Knowing that they could face having to pay 6-8 million per season, and 2-4 more contract years, there was plenty of incentive for the Cardinals to force the issue with Boras or else risk a struggling Holliday, stuck in Oakland(I know Holliday was starting to do better in his last few weeks in Oakland, but his production in that time was a far cry from his first month in St. Louis), watching his clients contract hopes plummit by each month, while cementing the attitude around the AL that Holliday was a NL only player. We all know that many view that the Cards gave up too much for Holliday, which should have given Mo the leverage to get Beane to agree to that request. All of this lead me to believe that the Cardinals weren't married to the idea of resigning Holliday and if it turned out that he signed elsewhere they were content on receiving the 2 draft picks. After the long build up, did the Cardinals ask for a negotiating window for Holliday and is my assumption that the Cards are content with letting him go correct? Afterall, Oakland did pay a decent portion of his salary, which was a shrewd, yet cheap way to convince Albert and Tony that they are committed to winning now. I really appreciate your time and your insight is the main reason why I come to this site.

Brian

Joe Strauss: Don't know which was longer, last week's chat or your question. Simply put, Team Boras was not interested in granting anybody a negotiating window. Holliday was going to test the market. The Cardinals knew that, which may account for their absence of an offer to date. The Cardinals also were realistic enough to know they were unlikely to make the postseason without an additional impact bat. They got their man and their berth in the postseason. Ever since, there have been many more questions than answers.

rbc1: Last year Boras had the Yanks, Sox, Angels, O's and Nats all interested in Tex and all reportedly offering 9 figure sums with the Yanks likely to bring back Damon and Matsui, and the Red Sox likely the Bring back Bay, the Angels already bringing back Abreu and likley focusing their efforts on re-signing Lackey or replacing him, the Dodgers having Manny, and the Mets having alot of holes plus the fact that some guy Madoff with all their owners money... i just dont see anywhere need the same type of Market out there no matter how much Boras wants to spin it... Do you agree?

Joe Strauss: Yes, to an extent. If the Yankees remain on the sidelines, this could well work out for the Cardinals. If the Yankees choose to become real players in this... or if Bay fails to re-sign with the Red Sox... then matters become much more difficult. The Cardinals do not consider Bay to be Holliday's equal. The spreadsheet mafia have taken out a hit on Bay as a defender and the Cardinals are among those who buy into the theory. Funny, the Cardinals have won with sub-par defenders (Duncan and Sanders) in left field before. Holliday is average there AT BEST despite the snake oil being sold as "metrics". If there are health concerns regarding Bay's knee, fine. But to walk away from his production because of defensive imperfections strikes me as odd.

rbc1: After all that i said about the Holliday bidding, im am of the belief that unless the owner is willing to make then payroll 90-100 Million (without including a Pujols extention meaning 90-100 million for the other 24 players on the roster, then pay Pujols) then signing Holliday would really handcuff the team

Joe Strauss: If the Cardinals re-sign Holliday, their payroll will rise appreciably. Though the club saya it wants to hold the line at around $100 million, there is no way they can retain Holliday and Pujols without it migrating toward $120M.

Scott Boeckelmann: What is your thought on Vernon Wells? Maybe they would throw in Roy. We could solve two problems at once.

Joe Strauss: Vernon Wells and his contract are Kryptonite within the game.

dale: joe,I am starting to think we may not sign any of our free agents, tell me i am wrong thanks

Joe Strauss: Don't jump quite yet. I'll push you when it's time.

MichiCARDSFANgan: I don't understand the player/agent relationship. I see that Boras made it clear he won't cut the Cardinals any slack in signing Holliday. Does the player simply say to the agent "get me the most money"? Does the player have any say after that? Does the player have any say at all for instance that maybe he would be okay with 170 million rather than 180 million because maybe he likes a particular situation (city, team mates)? Does the player have the right to make that decision? Or, am I really being being naive to think any player would settle for anything less than maximum money? Thanks for allowing me to vent.

Joe Strauss: You may be guilty on a misdemeanor count of naivete. Do you really take everything an agent (or a team) says during negotiations at face value? The agent is marketing his player. What he says publicly often differs from reality once bargaining begins. If Boras didn't push his client, he would be guilty of malfeasance. The Cardinals need to retain Holliday more than he needs to return here. Boras realizes that. Why would he give away leverage. To start handicapping whether a guy is gone before the market opens Nov. 20 is silly. It keeps columnists and sports talk radio in business but the game hasn't even reached the second quarter.
John Mozeliak wants to visit with Holliday to lay out a plan not only for Holliday's contract but for the future of the team. That future, according to the team, includes Pujols. It's difficult for Holliday (or Boras) to embrace a return to St. Louis before an offer is placed on the table.

vsiderio: Master of the tsunami,

Where would you draw the line in the Holliday quest? Is it at 18, 20, 22 a year for 6, 8 years? At what point does the team become hamstrung financially? He�s already cost a lot of assets for half a season. While he did lead to a division title, let�s not forget the poor playoff performance. Rarely can a loss be tied so directly to a miscue as his drop in game 2. If he makes a major league play the game is over, the series is tied 1-1, the Dodgers have to face Carpenter again, and Mr. DeWitt gets a second home playoff game. A VERY costly error. And let�s not forget looking at three straight strikes with the bases loaded in game 1. The broadcast overlay showed the three pitches overlaid on each other. After the first two are called strikes how can you look at #3?
Offer him 6 years at an average of 18 per and give him a deadline of the beginning of the December GM meetings. It was obvious that he wouldn�t sign before free agency (Colorado and Oakland seemed to know it). The Cards have already spent too much for him with little in return. When the deal was made I was all for it, but I assumed Mo had some indication he could sign him long term.
Sorry for the diatribe. It�s been building since the playoff embarrassment. Where do you stand on what to pay for Holliday?

Joe Strauss: Your offer ($108M/6y) is interesting. I'm not sure what team besides the Red Sox or Yankees would be equipped to go farther than that.
Given the way TLR runs a game, I believe Holliday essential to this roster. Losing him would compound the loss of prospects last July. Allen Craig may be a decent major league hitter but few are ready to go all-in with him before he takes his first major-league at-bat. (Remember those who anointed Rasmus ROY favorite in May?) No doubt Holliday's Game 1 strikeout and Game 2 drops were arguably the two most pivotal points of the Division Series. But his July acquisition was undeniably the move that turned the Cardinals from a plucky contender into a team considered by many the NL's best heading into September.

Brian: hey Joe,

isn't Trevor Miller a free agent? I remember he signed a two year deal, then it got knocked down to one when they uncovered some injury. Assuming it was just a 1 year deal, are the Cardinals expected to bring him back?

Also, what's going on with John Smoltz, I haven't heard much about him lately. Is he going to stick around? If so, is he headed for a starter role or a spot start reliever?

Joe Strauss: Miller signed a two-year extension last season. He'll be here through 2011. Smoltz would like to return to St. Louis; however, the Cardinals are likely to see what the rest of their team looks like before filling the final spot in their rotation. Carpenter, Wainwright and Lohse are locks. It's still very likely another spot will go to the winner of a competition between Boggs, Garcia, Hawksworth, etc. next spring. If Smoltz returns, it's most likely to start.

Michael S.: We shouldn't be surprised that Boras wants to get his clients the most money possible. That said:

Boras basically asserted that the Cardinals should be capable of a $165M payroll (3.3M fans x $50 ), that if the Cardinals weren't committed to that type of payroll then the owner and club is not committed to winning and that the better free agents won't go there.

This seems to be more of a divisive issue between Cardinal fans the past decade. How much of it is unfortunate baseball truth and how much of it is B.S. "Boras Speak"?

Joe Strauss: Boras did not claim the Cardinals should carry a $165M payroll. Using industry averages, he merely projected the team's take from ticket revenue alone. Given local broadcast rights, advertising and their portion of national rights fees, the Cardinals are pushing $250M plus in annual revenue. That does not take into account debt service on the stadium, an asset that conservatively pushes the value of the franchise to $800M. The Cardinals have room to increase payroll. But should a business do so if it can reasonably expect to reach the postseason at current levels ($90-$110M)?

dwat22: Joe,

I read that the Reds are going to be looking to cut payroll, Could Brandon Phillips be had? Skip could then move to LF and that can give you some protection for Pujols with Phillips.

Joe Strauss: Very difficult to make big trades within the division. Not everyone is the Pittsburgh Pirates, willing to operate as a feeder system for the Cubs. That said, the Reds may be more inclined to move Arroyo or Harang. Until further notice, the Cardinals are committed to Schu' at second base. His lack of power makes him a tough fit as a starting corner outfielder.

king: El Diablo - If Boras is dead set on getting Holliday 8 years and $180 mil, I say let the Yanks or Mets pay that freight. For the Card fans that are gnashing their teeth wanting us to re-sign Matt, do they expect Holliday to be the same player when he's 37-38 as he is now? Do they want to be paying $22.5 mil for a 37-year-old left fielder? We're not an AL team that can just stick his bat at DH once he can no longer play LF. - Thanks, Kingpin

Joe Strauss: I'll place a small wager that Holliday does not achieve Teixeira money. Of more concern is granting total no-trade protection to a player who will reach his late 30's during the deal.

Nathan in MN: Hey Joe, after reading what Scott Boras has said about the kind of money he will be looking at for Holliday, I say just let him go! Even though people will say we gave up our best prospect for a rental, it was the smart move. Wallace had no position here in St Louis. What do you think of this plan: let both Holliday and DeRosa go, offer Chone Figgins a higher contract than LA and put him in left. Freese starting at 3rd, sign Xavier Nady for a left bat/4th outfielder. Sign Smotlt and give Garcia the 5th spot. If any money left over, go after a RH reliever.

Joe Strauss: You might like that team in April but I have my doubts about July.

Doug: Mr Strauss:

Thank you very much for your chats. This promises to be another off season with a lot of anxiety and precious few answers. Except, of course, for the good ones we get from the Mighty Strauss. To my question: I have been looking at the Cards' minor league system. And with the exception of Allen Craig, who was drafted as an infielder, if I'm not incorrect, there are pretty much ZERO outfielders with any hope of being a power-hitting,middle of the order type. There are a dearth of light hitting speedsters, ie Daryl Jones, (I know he has gap power, supposedly), but to put it bluntly, what the heck were they thinking? We've continuously drafted players like Shane Robinson, Jones, Stavinoha, Pete Kozma,--was this supposed to be a return to Whiteyball, or are sluggers just harder to sign? Thanks. Doug.

Joe Strauss: Well, the club thinks highly of Freese, who it acquired from the Padres. Jones projects as a possible fourth outfielder for many who don't cash checks from the Cardinals. The same folks who were selling Brian Anderson as a can't-miss catching prospect three years ago are now pimping Daniel Descalso as 2B of the future. Maybe they're right. But your point is legitimate. While many get excited about the day-to-day hyperventilation about someone who rapped out three hits in a Texas League game, few provide context for how these players project. Craig turns 26 next July. I admittedly wanted to see more of him last spring training, when he smoked the ball all over the field. I wanted to see him in September. It didn't happen. That suggests he has doubters within the organization. Wallace may turn out to be a dangerous hitter but he was never going to be an easy fit within the NL. The org. chafed at that suggestion until the day it traded him along with Mortensen and Peterson. If the organization was truly that deep, the DeRosa and Holliday trades should not have shredded it.

Mark G.: Chatmeister,

How did you fare in the insidestl poker tournament? McKernan mentioned that you were at his table.

Joe Strauss: Took a bad beat with a set then exited early after shoving on an open-ended straight draw. Not my finest hour and 45 minutes.

gianni: Joe Babe: I am back from the ashes of my divorce stronger and more knowledgeable than ever before. I know you missed me--that said--forget about Matt Holiday he looked like Herman Munster or Lurch from the Adams family on that fly ball that cost us game two versus the Dodgers. He doesn't even feel bad about it--or else he'd give a discount. We need SPEED--table setters. Think Whitey ball not Earl Weaver/La Russa ball. It's chemistry we need. Sign Polanco to play second--Albert's best friend and a good ball player. Sign DeRosa for left field and if Freese doesn't work out at third Derosa can go there. I'd trade Rasmus for Carl Crawford if the Rays would go for it--Crawford is Whitey ball--we need some Whitey ball on this team imediately--fear not Joe I'll be in constant touch--Ciao

Joe Strauss: Your suggestion has its moments but you might seek an intervention after arriving from Italia.

twahhh: What kind of money should we expect Albert Pujols to pull on his next contract? I don't even think I can understand what that guy is worth financially.

Joe Strauss: I'm setting an over/under of 8 years/$220 million.

Matthew: Hey Joe,

I know you will receive a lot of questions regarding Holliday, but I could not resist. The Red Sox seem pretty adamant on retaining Bay, the Yankess want to bring back at least one of the veterans for the outfield, possibly both, it does not seem to me that they really are in the running for Holliday, and subsequently, couldn't the market be a little lower for his asking price??

Personally, I see teams like the Angels and Dodgers more likely in play. Is that a possibility? Would they drive the market near what the BoSox and Yanks would throw around. I see it as a good thing New York and Boston might not be interested in his services, for the sheer fact that they won't offer an insanely high deal to set his market muchhhhh higher than the Cards. I could see the Cards hanging in there until the end more likely with the Angels and Dodgers.

thanks

Joe Strauss: I've seen the Dodgers floated as well but wonder how they break up Ramirez, Kemp, Ethier. Don't see it. The Angels haven't gone public with their intentions, but they fit the demo of a team that could make a big move.

SouthernIllinoisBoy: Is it true that if the Mets sign Holliday the Cardinals would receive only a 2nd round pick as compensation for this Type A free agent because the Mets have a protected 1st round pick in 2010? If accurate, that would simply be so unfair it's ludicrous.

How exactly can a team be allowed to sign the best FA in baseball and still have their 1st round pick protected instead of forking it over to the team that is owed as the rules call for? No repercussions simply because of a flaw in the system? I'd say this can't be true, but then again, Bud Selig IS commishioner, so I'm turning to the all-knowing, almighty chatmeister to find out what the real deal is regarding this bartender info I heard.

Joe Strauss: If the Mets sign Holliday, the Cardinals receive a sandwich pick and the Mets' second-rounder. That would not be good for the local franchise.

mike k: Joe
If given the opportunity to ask Mark McGwire one question, what would you ask him?
Who do you think will be the opening day Left Fielder for the Cards?
thx

Joe Strauss: Question for McGwire: "Is it true that during your exile you became addicted to the thought-enhancing JSL!!!"
Question about LF: I honestly have no idea. You should tune into local sports talk to receive all kind of profound answers.

Scott Boras' Agent: Do you hear that? Its the sound of my client maniacally laughing at Little Johnny Mozeliak's 'Woe is me' routine. Now that its quite clear the Redbirds will be cut no slack in the Holliday situation, what are plans B through Z in free agency? We have all heard Jason Bay's name, but give us a few we may not be paying attention to...

Joe Strauss: The Cardinals at present do not view Bay as a contingency should Holliday defect.

Chris: Joe,

Thanks for your insight.

What is your feeling on resigning Pinero, or do we go after someone else for that slot?

Thanks

Joe Strauss: Pineiro is believed to be seeking a deal in the area of 3y/30M. The Cardinals have shown no inclination in becoming involved in that market. I do think it possible they offer him arbitration.

cjworden99: The sky is falling in Cardinal Nation! Good thing for the Tsunami to cushion the fall! Be real - do you really think Holliday is a franchise player? A few more questions...
...Looks like Bay isn't an option, Nady unreliable, Matsui in play?
...I personally covet Adrian Beltre (love to see him hit behind Albert) any chance? Sounds like there is too much commitment to Freese?
...Gordo is all up on Rafael Soriano, I like it, what say thee?
...Looks like there is a lot of relief help to be had via FA, who's most intriguing to you?
...Gordo is also talkin trash about Craig making the opening day roster and having an impact next year, huh?

Thanks -
Corey

Joe Strauss: I've said it before. If you're trolling for information on Baltic Avenue, don't be bringing it to Park Place. According to some on Baltic, the answers to all the Cardinals' questions reside in their farm system. Look no farther!!!

nickn: Are you hearing anything in regards to the Cardinals having the inside track on retaining Mark DeRosa? It seemed like there was some mutual interest during the last month of the regular season to get something done here but nothing positive seems to have happening now. Can you provide an update on this potential signing?

Joe Strauss: My information is DeRosa wants an everyday position rather than status as a glorified utility player. If the Cardinals sign Holliday, they are likely to go cheap (Freese) at third base. It doesn't leave much room for DeRosa. If the Holliday sweepstakes fall apart, DeRosa could become an option in left field, or perhaps at third base. Because he will command a shorter term deal for sane money, DeRosa will have plenty of options. His former Cardinals teammates very much hope the club retains him.

AS in CA: Mighty Joe!

What are the chances that if Whitey Herzog makes the Hall of Fame this time, the Cards retire his number, especially now that Ankiel won't be around to wear it? I think a lot of fans would like to see that happen. Thanks for being available through the dark time before Spring Training.

Joe Strauss: If Whitey enters the Hall, I would assume retiring his number becomes a formality.

ldomino: So thrilled to see you will be online again Chatmeister!!! Very good timing with the Hot Stove heating up and all. Two questions:

1.) I'm getting the vibe that the Cardinals have cooled on re-signing DeRosa. What's your take?

2.) Why do GM's put up with Boras' shenanigans year in and year out, allowing him to control the pace of negotiations? Why not just put their bottom line bid in, then opt out and move on if he tries stringing them along? His tactics are pretty transparent. Doesn't take a genius to see what he's up to.

Thanks!

Joe Strauss: Any concerted action by teams regarding free agents is called collusion. It's been tried before and cost owners $280 million. Get used to the term. You may start hearing it a lot more in the near future.

Brett: Hey, Joe. I heard you mention a little about Xavier Nady. He'd be a nice fit, but don't the Cards need a bigger threat? Also, how is the OF shaping up long term? I think we can trade Colby for a stud starting pitcher and trade for Curtis Granderson. Do Daryl Jones and/or Allen Craiq project as starting outfielders in the future? Thanks.

Joe Strauss: There is no way the club is trading Colby Rasmus. There is interest by other clubs in Craig. If his power projects, he starts at some point. Jones is a toolsy player still considered raw. He's 22 and has made significant strides the last two seasons. It might be wise to wait another year before putting any hard projections on him. However, his lack of power currently argues against him as a starting OF. Should the Cardinals re-sign Holliday, their starting OF looks rather firm for the next several years.

Billbird: Hi Joe,
Thanks for the chat!
What is the contract status of Adrian Beltre? Is he healthy and is he a guy who could be aquired relatively cheaply.
Also do you think the Cardinals need a left handed starter in the rotation.

Joe Strauss: Beltre is a free agent coming off a $5y/$65M contract with the Seattle Mariners. He has scored 100 runs, driven in 100 runs, hit 30 home runs and batted .300 once in his career. All of those things happened in 2004, when he finished second in NL MVP balloting to Barry Bonds. Beltre won 2 Gold Gloves with the Mariners but is not the same offensive player last seen in the NL. That said, he is an option should Holliday escape. Should be available for a shorter-term deal.
Many want to see a LH starter in the rotation. They may get their wish in Jaime Garcia. It's a fair comment they need another LH stick in the lineup to go with Rasmus and Schumaker.

JKoch: Joe, long time reader, fist time poster. I wanted to get your take on a few things, and I hope you have the time to hit them all (I know answers get shortened for time, no problem with that).

Hideki Matsui for left field on an incentive-base deal? Left/right platoon him with Craig to not overexpose Craig, and to make sure Matsui gets plenty of rest to keep his knees good. If the Yankees non-tender Wang, would he be the best solution for the veteran arm? Sinkerballer, past success.

Omar Vizquel will not return to the Rangers, and we could use a veteran like him if we plan to go with Freese/Ryan/Skip on the infield. BJ Ryan (minor league deal), Mike Gonzalez, or Rafael Soriano for the setup role?

Joe Strauss: Matsui's knees are enough of a concern that the Yankees are hesitant to bring him back. He will require surgery this offseason and is not perceived as an everyday outfielder, making him far less valuable in the NL.
I have heard Wang's name as a potential Carpenter-like post-surgery dumpster dive.

vikelt: El Diablo: why shouldn't the Cards offer arbitration to Glaus - '08 #s .270 27 HR 99 RBI .372 OBP & above average 3b defense. Unless the docs say he physically cannot return to what he was, why let him walk? Let Freese fight it out with him and keep trade options open.

This does not exclude Freese but doesn't commit the Cards to a rookie with 31 ML at-bats. The Cards might be able to get Glaus for an incentive-laden contract - anything close to what he produced just a year ago, and Cards are in a great position, including trade possibilities.
_________________

Joe Strauss: If Mo' offered Glaus arbitration he would be fired the next day, which would be about the time Glaus accepted. Glaus made $12.2M last season and could not be cut more than 20 percent through arbitration. Would you guarantee him that salary coming off surgery and a halting rehab? Didn't think so.

Josie Wales: Hello Esteemed Chairman of Chat,
I do not see the Pujols situation ending well for the Cardinals. What is your expectation of the chances of re-signing?
I see him on a big buck contender surrounded by the supporting talent he says he wants. He'll be adored by fans wherever he plays so why not be adored for the most money and on a team with other big buck players?
My prediction, the new Cubs owner opens the vault and wins the love of his fams by making a huge offer to Albert. That would be a Cardinal nightmare.
I still say the team is better off in the long run to trade AP now for players that would bring a decade of success rather than get two draft picks in two years. I know it won't happen but I think it's the best business move.
Thanks...I'm going out on the ledge now.

Joe Strauss: I don't get the concern. Didn't AP make headlines recently by claiming he wanted to be "a Cardinal for life"? I wonder if the time comes when El Hombre enters free agency if Cardinals fans will expect him to take less to stay, much as they now demand of Holliday, who spent a whole three months here. I can see the Angels' Arte Moreno making a huge push for Albert if given the chance in two years. Interestingly, Adrian Gonzalez is scheduled to become a free agent the same year. Hmmmmmm.

Gyrn: Gordo,

I am not convinced that Ryan Franklin is a legetimate closer. What is your opinion, and is there any chance of an upgrade this off season.

Thanks, Gyrn

Joe Strauss: It's a growing concern after his difficult September. Expect the Cardinals to acquire an eighth-inning guy this winter who could move into the closer role in a pinch but would not cause an immediate "closer controversy" upon his arrival.

Gyrn: Gordo,

Would you be so kind as to clarify how soon Ryan Ludwick is elegible to become a Free Agent? Any thoughts on who will back up Yadi?

Thanks, Gyrn

Joe Strauss: Ludwick is free agent eligible after the 2011 season. Jason LaRue has said he would welcome returning next season. Matt Pagnozzi remains on the 40-man roster. Greg Zaun and Matt Treanor types are available as well.

Tim: Mr. Boras' tactics involve pitting the fans against ownership claiming that ownership is cheap and has the means to pay top dollar but do not. Hence, Boras declining to acknowledge Cards as mid market. Are you a member of the Burwell/Boras camp that suggests ownership has the means and should pay top dollar for Holliday? Or are you of the opinion that the cardinals are a mid market team and paying top dollar for Holliday would be a big mistake and the money would be better spent improving the rotation, a Nady type left fielder, and a RH setup guy that could replace Franklin?

Joe Strauss: It's easy to say "at whatever cost" when it's not your money. I agree the Cardinals would be foolish to push the Holliday market at this time. The Cardinals sit in a 20-something media market but enjoy top 10 revenues. They have the capacity to increase payroll and could likely accommodate a $125 million structure. That said, to do so merely because they can do it accomplishes little. The franchise has reached the postseason seven of the past 10 years with payroll that has never exceeded $110 million. The model works. But to say the club isn't capable of signing Holliday to a market value deal or able to retain Pujols because of his asking price is not reality. The club can modify its model as long as it can project 3.2 million-plus attendance. Ratings for its local broadcast rightsholders also contribute to revenues that may now exceed $250 million per season.

stlelbirdos: Joe,
I know there has been a lot of talk about the Cards getting Matt Holiday or Jason Bay, but what do you think of the Cardinals looking at Adam Dunn? He would provide a ton of power (and of course a lot of strikeouts), and be much cheaper than both Jason Bay and Matt Holiday. I think he only signed a 1 year contract with the Nats and I can't see him being happy there. Ryan Ludwick has proven that he is a versatile outfielder and I think he could make a smooth transition to left field.

Thanks.

Joe Strauss: The Nationals owe Dunn $12 million in 2010. He is a free agent after the season. The Nats have a new GM and a new manager and clearly have nowhere to go but up. Such a move makes a lot of sense. Of all the hitters Mark McGwire might help, Dunn appears to me as Exhibit A. I find it very intriguing. If the Nats want Samuel, D. Jones, Jay, whatever... plus a starting prospect, talk about it.

Darrel Clark: JSL, if the cards do resign Holliday, then what will happen to Ludwick who
is do for arbiration. Can they afford to sign both of them to multi year deals.

Joe Strauss: The Cardinals so far appear inclined to go year to year with Ludwick.

PAL5230: OOOOH GREAT AND WISE CHATMEISTER --With what Waino said on the radio, what chance do you give the Cards of signing Holliday? What do you think of a Molina/Molina catching duo. Isnt Benji a free agent this year? Do you think the cards sign Ankiel, or should thay look for a cheaper OF backup?

Joe Strauss: Waino' spoke from his heart. It remains to be seen if Holliday will speak from the wallet. Jose Molina would be a fit as a backup. I don't see a return for Ankiel, who needs an everyday opportunity he would not find here.

Joe: Hi Joe,

Buster Olney reported that he feels like guys like Holliday, Bay, etc will not get $100 million contracts. If that is true, does it increase the chances of bringing Holliday back? Also, if Holliday leaves what would be your plan if you were GM? Thanks.

Joe Strauss: If Holliday fails to receive a $100 million deal he's wearing Birds on the Bat next spring. I would have interest in Bay if Holliday leaves. But that may not reflect organizational thinking. Without Holliday, the Cardinals find themselves in the same precarious position as last season. The only variable would be third base. It's impossible to evaluate their lineup without knowing who goes there.

Chad: Joe,

Have to admit I enjoy the hot stove coverage nearly as much as the in season coverage. There is always so much more intrigue. Any names floating around at the meetings the Redbirds m ay be interested in that has not been on the radar before (trade or FA)? Also, why no interest in Figgins?

Thanks, always enjoy the chats.

Joe Strauss: The Cardinals may have interest in Figgins; they have yet to make it known. It's unlikely they would acquire him and Holliday. Until the Holliday situation clarifies, everything is speculation. Nady does have some appeal as a low-cost, short-term alternative. Ironically, Boras represents him as well.

john c: Hiya Joe-

The org made a little noise a few weeks ago about getting a backup C that could handle more games than Stache Larue and his balky knees. Was this posturing to take some of the heat off of Yadier (re: the perceived lack of hustle due to being, um, overworked) or are they serious about getting a more high-profile backup? Any names floating around?

Thx.

Joe Strauss: Mo' has stated he hopes to find more pop from the backup C. Nothing specific. However, Gary Bennett was seen roaming the halls at the O'Hare Hilton. (True fact.)

Terrapin03: El Diablo,
A lot of talk so far about Holliday, Bay, and the other LF free agents. If Boras prices the Cards out of the Holliday sweepstakes, Bay re-signs with the Sawx, and the team is weary of the remaining (old) free agents would they consider any trade options? Does the team have enough ammo left to approach the Rockies for a guy like Hawpe, who might be starting to get too expensive for them?

Joe Strauss: Hawpe is an interesting name. He also offers some LH balance. However, he experienced a brutal second half after an All-Star first half and the Coors Field factor hangs heavy over his resume. He's also a minus defender.

UTG: Hi Joe,

Is it true that Detroit is looking to lower their payroll in the offseason, and would the cards be interested in either Curtis Granderson or Edwin Jackson?

Thanks

Joe Strauss: Yes, those reports are true. Jackson is an intriguing name. Uncertain if the Cardinals have the low-cost players needed to outhustle others for him.

UTG: One more for you

I heard a report that several teams would not be offering arbitration to many players, possibly 70 or more, this offseason because of payroll concerns creating a secondary free agent market. Is there any truth to this, and are there any players you can think of that might fall into this category that would be of interest to the cardinals?

Thank you for holding these chats

Joe Strauss: You're right on, which is why many clubs believe this FA market will be extremely slow-developing. We could be addressing many of these same questions at the Winter Meetings next month.

Jerry From Memphis: Why not make Allen Craig next year's left fielder? He has hit very well in rising through the minor league system. I have watched him play here in Memphis and, while he is no gazelle in the field he seems to get to most of the balls hit his direction. He even manages to catch the ball (unlike Holliday).

Why is the only talk about his 2010 role limited to talk about being a reserve?

Joe Strauss: He's never appeared in a major league game. I've rarely heard of an unproven player, especially one who has wandered between positions, being awarded a starting job for a TLR-managed club. That Pujols fellow is an exception. I've heard he also has special talent.

Mgibby14: Joe, assuming the Cardinals don't pony up for either Holliday or Bay, what are the chances of bringing in Guerero for a year or two to ease the transition to one of the kids in the minors? Could he platoon some to save his knees?

Joe Strauss: I have a difficult time projecting Guerrero and Dye as NL players at this stage of their careers.

ews: The Holliday matter is unfolding exactly as I (and plenty of others) thought it would, i.e., with Boras pushing an extremely tough bargain and cutting the Cardinals absolutely zero slack. Please tell me that Cardinals brass knew this would happen as well and there's no element of suprise here. It would really disappoint me to hear that we traded top prospects for what could be a two month rental with the naive hope we could sign Holliday to a below-market deal based on nothing more than the good juju in St. Louis.

Joe Strauss: It's a poker game. The Cardinals are willing to wager that Boras has overestimated his client's market. If they're wrong, they are not positioned to give Teixeira or even Soriano money to Holliday, so it doesn't really matter. If they're correct, they enjoy plenty of advantages. It's interesting that Mo' places so much value on a face-to-face with Holliday. A number of his teammates believe there is a real desire on the player's part to return if the dollars are close. It's very difficult to project with the market a week away from opening. Again, I think it's premature to dismiss the Cardinals as players.

Cards Shark: In his last full year in Memphis Freese had 111 strikeouts and 39 walks.
Source: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?y=2008&t=t_ibp&cid=235

That is almost a 3 strikeout to walk ratio and that was in AAA. I think it is likely that his strikeout to walk ratio will only get worse if he faces better pitching in the Majors. Do you think that David Freese could end up being the next Rick Ankiel?

Joe Strauss: Freese is an interesting case. He has power. He's OK at third base. He showed well in his brief September return to St. Louis. Yet the enthusiasm for him being handed third base as a 27 y.o. rookie is, well, different. Third base is a production position. The Cardinals had little there last year. Without more guarantees in left field, it's difficult to sign off on anointing Freese as an everyday player. He struck out 63 times in 258 AB's last season. You cite his totals for 2008, his first year above Class A.

gscottar: The Cardinals' postseason seems to be headed in one of two directions. They can shell out $20million per year and lock up Holliday and be done spending for the winter or they can take that $20 million and spend it on Mark Derosa, Xavier Nady, and a couple of pitchers.

In your informed opinion, which is the wisest course of action?

Joe Strauss: I don't agree with your premise because I do not expect Holliday to receive $20M per season.

Seymour Baseball: Baseball fans here are forever talking about "getting to the postseason", as if the season means nothing to them [except for stats and records]. This past season, the cardinals "got to the postseason", and didn't bother to show up. Strike three called, looking. And they traded away some fine young prospects - either to keep or to make better, longer-lasting deals for - to get a guy who allegedly "got" them to "the postseason" in order to satisfy this obsession.

Why this obsession? Whatever happened to just enjoying the game? A week after the "world" series, do even yankee fans care about it any more?

Joe Strauss: Hold on while I dial the North Side of Chicago.

Steve: O' master of the 25' swell...

What would you consider the highest number that the Cardinals could go to retain Holliday and extend Pujols without damaging payroll flexibility?

Are we talking $45 million a year for the 2 contracts? Assuming a team payroll around $110 million that would be over 40% of the total payroll on the roster...
Are there any ideas that the team may be able to get creative? Could they front load 1 of the contracts with the bigger money sooner? Could they defer money? Could they determine that for the duration of Carp and Wainwright's current deals that payroll will be around $118-$122 million a year?

I'm sure Mo and the accountants have been over this, but what's the best guess as to how realistic it is for the team to spend well over $40 million on just 2 players?

Joe Strauss: Should the club commit $45 annually to El Hombre and Holliday, a $120 million payroll is a reasonable expectation. The club can support it as long as attendance holds.

Steve: Joe, what do you think of my reasons to think the Cards could be competitive in 2010...

True or False... The Cardinals will be much improved defensively in 2010 as Ryan has proven to be a good Shortstop, Skip has more practice at 2B, Lugo will be around the whole year, Rasmus is no longer a rookie and should get serious run in CF, and we'll have better options at 3B than the mixing and matching in 2009?

True or False... The fact that Carpenter stayed healthy in 2009 is a reason to hope that he could put in another full season in 2010?

True or False... Veterans like Mark DeRosa and John Smoltz (if resigned) could give the team a boost in chemistry? Seems like we've heard a bit about Ankiel's unhappy 2009, and Albert's quick exit after the playoffs, and the Duncan trade created a stir... could there be a little less drama in the Cards clubhouse by bringing back some of the glue guys that were acquired during the year?

Joe Strauss: In order:

Yes... It's very difficult to say and I would not draw any conclusions about Carp's health. He consideres his career a start-to-start proposition. I'm not going to disagree with him... And... Yes.

Bloomingbird: Chatmester:

What do you think of the McGwire hire? Do you think it will create distractions thoroughout the year?

I breathlessly refresh for your anwser!

Joe Strauss: McGwire and the Cardinals have more control over the issue than they perhaps realize. If he gets in front of the questions, he has a unique opportunity to rehabilitate his standing in the game. If he obfuscates or, worse, hides while being enabled by the club, his return to the game will be unpleasant. The questions and the questioners aren't going away without answers. A lot of folks are waiting for the first snarl by Big Mac or TLR. That would, of course, only enflame the story. Stand up, tell the truth, face the media without becoming defensive, then move on. Barring some future revelation, McGwire is the one most responsible for keeping the issue(s) alive.

dairyman: El D,

The local club has a habit of dumpster diving. If DeRosa and Smoltz sign elsewhere, would the Cards be interested in Joe Crede and Ben Sheets? Crede is a local boy and has the reputation of a defensive whiz (and insurance if Freese isn't ready), while Sheets could become more durable with a pitch-to-contact philosophy.

Joe Strauss: Crede has a bad back and Sheets can't stay healthy for a season. As soon as either signs, the Cardinals would be asked about their pledge following '08 to abstain from medical risks. Either is fine as a fringe candidate. To count on either as a heavy contributor would be reckless.

nick banche: joe, it seems to me that the big mac hire is more about rehabing his reputation than helping the cards and could prove to be a distraction, your opinion please.

Joe Strauss: I'm honestly willing to keep an open mind unless someone closes it for me.

Dunder Mifflin: Has there been any talk of the cards going after Erik Bedard to add a strikeout lefty to the rotation if they dont sign holliday?

Joe Strauss: Bedard may not be the ideal fit for Duncan's philosophies and temperment. Bedard quickly wore out his welcome in Seattle and has a difficult time staying healthy. The possibility of a Marquis situation squared exists.

Jared M.: Maistro of the chat world:

Why no Chone Figgins interest? Why no Adam Dunn trade talks? Please enlighten me. I say take your best shot at Holliday, let him reject your offer which is inevitable, and move on. What say you, sir?

Jared in St. Chuck

Joe Strauss: You've answered your own question. If Holliday falls out of play, the options become more obvious.

Dave: I have heard rumors that Dan Uggla is available, and other teams are interested in having him move to LF. Would the Cardinals consider looking into picking up Uggla, or do they not have any assets to deal at this point to get him?

Joe Strauss: You must assume that any player attractive to the Cardinals is going to have value elsewhere as well. Then the question follows whether their competition is better equipped to deal prospects for an immediate impact player. It's fair to assume that a player development system likely to be ranked in the 20's next month by Baseball America is operating from at least a mild disadvantage. The Cardinals do have some interesting pitching (Lynn, Garcia, Sanchez, Boggs) but another all-in moves leaves them almost barren.

CArty: Is there enough money for Figgins, Bay, and Smoltz? Power hitting outfielder. Figgins can lead off and move Schu to the 2nd spot.

Joe Strauss: Is there enough money? Absolutely. Will all three happen? No way. Two of three at most with Bay the least likely.

Brad: What sort of credible package of players/prospects would pry Adam Dunn or Hank Blalock from their respective teams? Would the ChatMeister support such a move. Seems to fit need from a position (LF/3B) and run producing LEFT Handed bat standpoint and provides more payroll flexibility to boot.

Joe Strauss: Dunn fits this team and its payroll structure very well.

jj82: Hi Joe,
I think Holliday is a bit overrated. Boras said he is a franchise player like Tex, but I don't see it. Guys like Adam Lind and Jason Kubel put up better numbers than him. Do you think he's a "franchise" player?

Joe Strauss: I believe Holliday is an "impact" player. Just because there are 30 teams doesn't mean there are 30 "franchise" players. My definition of a franchise player is someone with MVP potential. By that definition, Holliday fit during his time in Colorado. That definition can change (see: Beltre, Rolen). To be honest, I think Holliday is a good fit on a team where he doesn't have to be the best player. That would apply here and with the Yankees. Things could get interesting if he went to Boston as Bay's replacement.

drews crew: ATL gave Hudson 3-yr, $28 mil. Yes, he's 3 years older than Pineiro, but his career #s are much better.

Will Joel still be sitting at home when pitchers and catchers report if he's deadset on 3 for $30M? Or do you think the Mets are dumb enough to give him that deal? And if not NY, where do you think he ends up?

Joe Strauss: The Mets keep surfacing as the most likely landing spot. He pitched well enough last season to project as someone's No. 3 starter. The 3y/30M is about right for that role. Hudson has dealt with injuries. Pineiro has not. Regarding Joel, the question is how much do you trust his 2009?

jrgocards: Lots of speculation about Albert being offered tons of $ from the Yankees when his contract is up here - I wonder if he is a fit for NY since they have Tex at 1B and I really doubt that Albert would accept a DH position for more money. Your thoughts?

JR

Joe Strauss: To be honest, I'm having a hard time keeping up with what might happen in two weeks. Two years isn't on the top of my list right now.

MichiCARDSFANgan: Yes, the Cardinals have made the playoffs 7 of the last years. But by making a major improvement (Holliday) or two (DeRosa)and a reasonable payroll of about 125 million, maybe the Cards can avoid being the Braves who made the playoffs about 20 years in a row, but only won the series once. Why not go for it under those reasonable circumstances?

Joe Strauss: The Cards are in a position where "going for it" can no longer include packaging several top prospects. The system is relatively bare again, at least if you use players who could impact the parent club in the next two years. If they're going for it, the Cardinals are going to have to spend for it or deal someone who is close (Boggs, Hawksworth, Motte, Craig). A lot of franchises would take the Braves' 14 years of "futility."

Mona: Joe,

In terms of the bullpen, what are your thoughts on Soriano from the Braves? Do the Cards have interest/will the Braves let him go?

Thanks.

Joe Strauss: Rafael Soriano is a free agent who made $6.1M as Braves closer last season. He will be 30 next year. In his last two full sesons he has 172 strikeouts in 148 innings pitched. He is unlikely to go anywhere as a set-up man, which is what the Cardinals say they seek. Soriano amassed a WHIP below 1.00 in 2007. He's doubtless looking for closer money, which makes him an ill fit for a team publicly committed to Ryan Franklin as its closer in 2010.

Joe Strauss: That's going to be a wrap for this week. Thanks for the overwhelming number of questions. Many of them will apply next time so feel free to re-submit. Not sure this will be a weekly thing with holidays approaching, but stayed tuned to STLtoday and the Post-Dispatch. A week from today we'll learn the ID of the NL Cy Young Award winner. The following Tuesday Pujols should be named NL MVP. Silver Sluggers will be announced tonight. Again, thanks for the 3-hour surf today. We'll talk soon.