Ralph: Oh wise one,

What do you think about the idea of trying Carpenter as the closer this year (a la John Smoltz), if his injuries prevent him from starting every 5 days? Maybe going every other day would be just as much of a strain on his arm, but with fewer pitches? Then sign a starter to a 1 year deal (Randy Johnson) until Carp can come back in 2010?

Joe Strauss: Any projections for Carpenter are presumptuous at this point.

dsp763: Joe:
Great timing for a Cardinals chat. My question is, how bad would it be if the Birds were to re-sign Izturis and Lopez (for reasonable money) and then blow the rest of the money (assuming there is enough) and just buy Fuentes and Lowe ? Is this a financial pipe dream ? Would about $20 million a year pay for both Lowe(spelling?) and Fuentes ?
Thanks again for Your time,
Dave

Joe Strauss: The Cardinals remain counter to committing long-term for pitching, especially with Perez and Motte suggesting a return on investment. At some point, however, the Cardinals are going to have to commit long-term to starting pitching. Most non-biased observers believe the minor-league system remains thin on starting pitching. Adam Ottavino, Mitchell Boggs, P.J. Walters and Clayton Mortenson are possibilities, but hardly given. Ottavino has finally rediscovered his mechanics after some ill-advised tinkering last season. Mortenson has been rushed to his detriment, many believe, but could rebound next season. Interesting that former supplemental rounder Mark McCormick was not added to the 40-man and may be lost in next week's Rule 5 draft.

Mathias: Joe - Big fan of your work. Could you tell me a little bit more about Escobar from the Braves.. I keep hearing his name pop up in all sorts of trade rumors, probably as much as anybody I have been reading about. Would a guy like that be worth parting with a guy like Ludwick in your estimation?

Joe Strauss: Escobar may be the NL's best SS in 2-3 years. He is a legitimate offensive player and a gifted defender. He carries an iffy reputation as a clubhouse presence and may have worn on Braves Mgr. Bobby Cox, regarded as the consummate players' manager. Ludwick has a checkered health history and represents the ultimate "sell-high" opportunity. It is easier to find an impact outfielder than an impact SS, leading the Cardinals to examine whether to use what may be fleeting leverage. I like Ludwick as a player. He's a plus defender. Yes, he strikes out a ton. But his production-per-hit is outstanding for a .300 bat. I haven't seen the team medicals on him. Obviously, the team has medical information we have not seen.

Pujols5: Mr. Tsunami:

Is the expected health of Chris Duncan the impetus behind the dangling of Ludwick this winter? If so, a misguided thought in my opinion.

Also, I expect a Gator beatdown against your Alabama, your thoughts>

Are you laying or giving the pts with Mizzou-Oklahoma.

Give us a couple of sleeper college basketball teams this winter.

Joe Strauss: You're misinformed, P5. I've been on the Gator bandwagon all season. This week's Alabama-UF game is the true national championship game. I expect a 'Bama beatdown. I'm taking Mizzou and the points. Believe it or not, I project Missouri as a surprise nationally. A soft non-conference schedule and a down Big 12 may allow them to surface in the Top 25. They should have beaten Xavier in Puerto Rico. I don't know about surprises. Duke may be better than expected. Pitt looks like a monster.

KY_CUB_KILLER: Who is known to currently be holding offers from the Cards? I know Miller and Rhodes. It has been reported that there is other offers out but do we know as to who?

Joe Strauss: FLASH!!! The Cardinals have signed T. Miller to a ONE-year deal. Details forthcoming.