Cards drop duel to Dodgers

03/07/2006
Dodgers at the plate: Andy LaRoche's double down the line opened the scoring. LaRoche later added a single to his line. Jason Repko's tie-breaking two-run single gave the Dodgers their margin of victory. James Loney had a pair of base hits and scored a run.
Cardinals at the plate: David Eckstein doubled and scored. John Gall had a sacrifice fly and singled. But for the most part, it was a quiet day for St. Louis, which was held to four hits.
Dodgers on the mound: Starter Brett Tomko pitched three solid innings for the win, allowing a run on three hits. Eric Stults pitched three scoreless, hitless innings in relief. Justin Orenduff, Hong-Chih Kuo and John Meloan each tossed a shutout inning.
Cardinals on the mound: Jeff Suppan showed progress from his first start, but he still allowed three runs in three innings. Jason Isringhausen and Jeff Nelson each pitched a shutout inning in their respective spring debuts. Blaine Neal twirled two shutout frames.
Grapefruit League records: Dodgers 3-2; Cardinals 2-4

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Second base spot not quite sewn up

03/08/2006
VIERA, Fla. -- A year ago, Cardinals manager Tony La Russa proclaimed that new signee Mark Grudzielanek had nothing guaranteed. Grudzielanek, said the skipper, would have to win the second base job; it wouldn't be given to him.
And then Spring Training started, and Grudzielanek worked every day with new shortstop David Eckstein. He got the at-bats, he got the chances, and there was never any doubt he was the man.
Fast-forward a year, and La Russa could be heard saying many of the same things about new acquisition Junior Spivey, even though Spivey looked like a heavy favorite to win the gig. This time around, though, it looks like there really is some competition.
Spivey will be pushed by Hector Luna, as long as Luna impresses. Aaron Miles, though sidelined, put up a five-hit night in his only full game of the spring thus far.
"If Luna's not playing well, then it's not very competitive," said La Russa. "If Luna's playing well, you've got a competition. If Miles is jumping in there ...
"It's competition. By definition, you can't compete with yourself. So a lot depends on how Luna looks, how Miles looks."
All of which is a long way of saying that while Spivey may be the favorite, he's not a given. La Russa is greatly intrigued by Luna's possibilities. And it's understandable, given that Luna hit .285 with a .344 on-base percentage and .409 slugging percentage in limited duty in 2005.
Spivey has been an All-Star in the past, but a shoulder injury ended his 2004 and hindered him in 2005. He followed that up with a wrist injury that all but finished him in '05.
So though he knows he's in competition, it's not what he's thinking about most.
"I'm concerned about getting myself ready to play, regardless," he said. "I'm not looking at it like that. You've got to get yourself ready to play, especially at this point in the spring. It's not a sprint, it's a marathon. Putting energy into things that you have no control over, that's not the way you play this game."
La Russa is taking a similarly long view on Spivey, who had a slow start in games. After showing up early and looking good in workouts, he went hitless in his first 15 Grapefruit League at-bats.
He finally poked a two-run single in extra innings on Wednesday.
"It's no big deal," he said. "I'm not worried about whether I have base hits or not. I just want to have good at-bats."
Luna has impressed in his time in the Major Leagues, but he wasn't happy to be demoted last year, and he batted .224 in 223 at-bats at Triple-A.
That kind of showing can harm a player's standing, but Luna has been able to overcome it.
"It depends on the talent," said La Russa. "It depends on injuries. If a guy is really not putting effort into it, that concerns us. If you've got alternatives, he's hexing himself. But we needed him. He did not distinguish himself in Triple-A -- but we needed him.
"He's had two solid Major League seasons, and it wouldn't surprise me if he went to Triple-A this year and did not distinguish himself again. But I would be surprised if he came up here and did not play pretty well."
At the moment, Luna's chances of at least making the roster look strong. His versatility is a plus for La Russa, and he has shown an ability to hit effectively even with limited playing time.
The greater question is whether he'll be a regular -- this year or ever. Luna knows the chance is there now.
"All I have to do is go and play hard every chance, whether it's practice or games," he said. "There is a bigger opportunity than before, more of a chance. If it's to play one position, or I can also play utility."
Albert Pujols is one of Luna's best friends on the team, and there aren't many better influences in terms of approaching the game. If Luna can begin to match Pujols' drive and dedication, he could be quite a ballplayer.
"I told him, you can have a solid career as a part-time player and make part-time money," La Russa said. "But if you want to be the everyday guy, then you're going to have to have that everyday tenacity like David Eckstein, Albert Pujols, Scott Rolen, guys on the club that really grind it every day."

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Extra-inning rally lifts Cards to win

03/08/2006
Cardinals at the plate: Brian Daubach hit a three-run home run against Kyle Denney in the first inning. Chris Duncan hit a solo homer off Jim Crowell. Duncan scored from first in the 10th inning when John Gall singled to center and Marlon Byrd misplayed the ball in the outfield.
Nationals at the plate: Washington had the bases loaded in the fifth inning against John Webb, but he struck out Josh Labandeira to end the inning. Down 4-0, the Nationals tied the score at 4 in the ninth inning. Tyrell Godwin drove in two runs with a double, and Byrd knotted the score with a two-run single.
Cardinals on the mound: Chris Carpenter pitched four shutout innings and gave up only two hits. Webb, Tyler Johnson and Alan Benes combined to pitch four shutout innings. All four of Washington's ninth-inning runs were charged to Carmen Cali.
Nationals on the mound: Denney pitched four innings and gave up three runs on three hits. After giving up the three-run home run, Denney retired the next 10 hitters. Felix Rodriguez pitched one scoreless inning, while Steve Watkins pitched two shutout innings.
Grapefruit League records: Cardinals 3-4; Nationals 1-6-1.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Cards add to Reyes' repertoire

03/09/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- As a Triple-A hurler last year, Anthony Reyes had the stuff, the command and the presence to succeed in the Major Leagues. He didn't have the repertoire, though.
Cardinals manager Tony La Russa and pitching coach Dave Duncan have Reyes working on a two-seam fastball this spring, giving him another look in addition to his four-seam fastball, curveball and changeup. Duncan and La Russa want Reyes to pitch down in the strike zone more often.
"If that's what they want me to do, then I'll do it," said Reyes. "Whatever they want me to do, I'll do. As long as I get a chance to be up here. I think it is a pitch that you need. You need ground balls. So I'm going to stay with it and hopefully it will turn out."
Reyes has a tendency to work up in the zone, thanks to the velocity and life of his riding four-seamer. But the sinking two-seamer is a sine qua non as far as the Cards are concerned. And if it means Reyes takes a few lumps while he learns it, so be it.
There will be no grading on a curve, even though the youngster is competing with the established Sidney Ponson for a rotation spot.
"He can't be successful without it," said La Russa. "How is that tough? It gives you your best chance. You can't pitch at the top of the zone -- I don't care how hard you throw.
"You don't get any points for trying. It will make him a better pitcher. He's a talented guy. He'll incorporate it."
Reyes showed improvement from his first start on Thursday. He allowed two runs on five hits in three innings, striking out three and walking one. He said that he threw more sinkers than four-seamers.
"It's tough," said Reyes. "When I throw those pitches, they get hit. It's pretty tough to go out there and do that. But I know it's going to be a good pitch for me and I really want it to work for me."
Edmonds closer, or not: Jim Edmonds is closer, "foot-wise," to making his first game appearance of the spring. Unfortunately, "calf-wise," he took a step back on Thursday. Edmonds is feeling some soreness in his left calf, which he believes may have resulted from favoring his bruised right foot.
Still, Edmonds may be closing in on a game appearance.
"I didn't really hurt it, it just got really tight from sprinting," said Edmonds.
"Everything's doing really good. I feel really good. The best thing about all this is I get to work out and get in better shape as I go. Stay strong. We're just being a little cautious."
Edmonds may play as soon as Saturday's home game against Baltimore.
Ponson's progress: Like Reyes, Ponson showed improvement from his first game appearance. But like Reyes, he's not where he wants to be yet. Ponson pitched four innings, allowing a run on three hits.
"I felt much better than my first start, but I'm still leaving the ball up," he said. "My mechanics aren't 100 percent there and I'm still leaving the ball up in the zone. It's only my second game, and it's better than it was the first game. That's always a good outlook on it."
Both right-handers will probably appear in Tuesday's game against the Yankees in Tampa. After that, though, it will be difficult for them to get their work in on the same day and other accommodations may need to be made.
Tough critic: Braden Looper came into the clubhouse clearly frustrated following his one-inning appearance on Thursday. Looper didn't look like someone who should be asked about how it went, so at first no one asked.
But Looper's results weren't bad at all. The right-hander pitched a hitless inning in which he walked one batter. That was much better than his first game, when he was hit hard.
"I'm not unhappy," he said. "You get frustrated when you feel what you're doing wrong and you can't make the adjustment. I ended up walking a guy and I shouldn't have walked a guy. I feel good physically, which is what I should take from it. It'll come. It's just a matter of time."
No breaks: The wind didn't do the Cardinals any favors in their 3-0 loss to Florida. Two balls that looked for all the world like home runs fell for doubles, as both Larry Bigbie and Scott Spiezio were cheated -- and their teammates noticed.
"Spiez, nice homer!" quipped Edmonds. "Too bad it was just a double."
Bits and pieces: The exhibition game between the Cardinals and Central Missouri State was canceled because the Cardinals didn't have enough pitchers. Central played another college team on Field 1 at Roger Dean Stadium. ... St. Louis did have one extra pitcher, so the Cards and Marlins played an extra inning in order for Juan Mateo to pitch. Bullpen catcher Jeff Murphy served as the umpire. ... John Rodriguez, who has been dealing with a sore shoulder, may return to game action on Friday.
Quotable: "He got quick outs because he left a lot of balls at the top of the strike zone, and that's what everybody wants to swing at. Luckily he got away with it. In April you don't get away with those." -- Duncan on Ponson
Weather report: It'll be one of the warmer days of the spring, with forecast highs of around 82 degrees in Port St. Lucie on Friday. There's a 20 percent chance of rain and you can expect to see a few clouds, but it's still quite nice.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Ponson impresses in Cards' loss

03/09/2006
Marlins at the plate: Jason Stokes laced an RBI double to put Florida ahead in the second inning, and added a solo home run in the sixth. Hanley Ramirez also went deep, leading off the third with a long ball.
Cardinals at the plate: Scott Spiezio and Larry Bigbie each doubled to deep right-center, but a stiff right-to-left wind helped keep both balls in the park. Otherwise it was a fairly quiet day for the St. Louis offense.
Marlins on the mound: Starter Ricky Nolasco was effective for 2 2/3 shutout innings, allowing one base hit, no walks and striking out a pair. Harvey Garcia pitched a perfect fifth and Chris Resop was perfect in the seventh.
Cardinals on the mound: Anthony Reyes allowed two runs on five hits in three innings as the starter. Sidney Ponson was impressive in four innings, permitting a run on three hits.
Grapefruit League records: Marlins 6-1; Cardinals 3-5

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Gorecki looking for a breakout season

03/10/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- Reid Gorecki expected 2005 to be the biggest season of his career. As it turns out, the campaign pales in importance compared to what '06 will mean.
It's hard to call a player's age-25 season a make-or-break campaign, but it's close to that for the former 13th-round draft pick. Last year, Gorecki entered Spring Training as the Cardinals' No. 11 prospect (according to Baseball America) -- a speedy outfielder with defensive skills and occasional power.
A year later, Gorecki doesn't find himself in the top 30 Cards prospects. He struggled mightily at Double-A Springfield before a demotion to Class A Palm Beach. Gorecki is in big-league camp again this year, having good at-bats and looking fine in the field, and trying to relax.
"I learned quite a bit from last year to this year," he said. "I learned a lot about our guys in this clubhouse and in the GM booth, and everywhere. They're pulling for me. They saw something they liked a couple years ago, something they liked when they drafted me, and I'm just waiting to show them that player again."
Gorecki was the center of attention for the new Springfield franchise last year. The Double-A team made him its signature player in its opening season. Unfortunately for player and team, Gorecki's performance didn't match the expectations.
He hit .182/.264/.277 (batting average/on-base/slugging) in 46 games for Springfield before eventually taking some time off and heading down to Palm Beach. Things clicked for him there, as he hit .286/.374/.457 after the demotion.
"I had my name in the paper," he said. "I was doing autograph signings and all that stuff. Not having done that before, not having someone to walk me through it, it was something that I had to kind of feel for myself.
"As a young player, you can only take so much pressure. I felt a ton of it on me. We were in a brand-new stadium. That team, we were supposed to do something up there. We were supposed to make a name for ourselves in the Texas League."
Given all that, Gorecki is understandably hesitant to put too much on himself as he enters 2006. But he knows how much it matters that he have a good year.
"I'm not looking too far ahead," he said. "I'm taking my old one-day-at-a-time approach. I had a poor year, but I finished it off all right. They say it's not how you start, it's how you finish. So I wasn't too displeased with my overall season. I was displeased with my early season. I'm just looking forward to starting up this season."

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Mulder, Cards shut down Mets

03/10/2006
Cardinals at the plate: Catcher Michel Hernandez drove in three runs, while former Met Brian Daubach and Junior Spivey had two RBIs each. St. Louis had three extra-base hits, two of them doubles by Daubach.
Mets at the plate: Jeff Keppinger had New York's lone extra-base hit, a double. David Wright had two hits to raise his spring average to .176. Lastings Milledge also had two hits.
Cardinals on the mound: Mark Mulder allowed four hits, one walk and one run in 3 2/3 innings. Adam Wainwright allowed two runs -- one earned -- in 3 2/3 frames.
Mets on the mound: Jeremi Gonzalez, who has a chance to make the team as the long man, worked three innings, allowing three runs -- one earned. The Mets made two of their three errors -- by Wright and Chris Woodward -- with Gonzalez pitching. Kaz Matsui committed an error in the fifth when the Cards scored three times against Mike Pelfrey, who was charged no earned runs.
Grapefruit League records: Cardinals 4-5; Mets 5-4.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Edmonds makes spring debut

03/11/2006
JUPITER -- Jim Edmonds had two hits, an RBI, and caught the only ball hit his way in his 2006 debut for the St. Louis Cardinals, who defeated the Baltimore Orioles, 5-0, on Saturday at Roger Dean Stadium.
Not too shabby for the four-time All-Star, who has been nursing a bruised right foot and sore left calf since the start of Spring Training.
"Not at all," answered Edmonds when asked if he felt comfortable at the plate. "I was trying not to do too much. My first at-bat, I was just trying to see the ball, and the second at-bat, that made it easy just because I was trying to hit a fly ball because Scott [Rolen] was on third ... to score a run."
Edmonds was tested in the first inning, when Melvin Mora hit a drive into left-center field with one out and Corey Patterson on second base. Edmonds called off left fielder Larry Bigbie and caught the ball one-handed, but bobbled the ball in the transfer, and the umpire signaled an out. Edmonds said he was a bit discombobulated because he was using his game glove for the first time this season.
"I dropped it because I've been using a really small glove in batting practice every day," Edmonds said.
For the rest of his four innings at center field, Edmonds shuffled his feet and stretched his legs in center field between batters.
"Things are stiff and it's still my first day," Edmonds said. "I'm just worried about getting tight, so I move around a lot."
In his first at-bat, Edmonds fouled a pitch off the same sore spot on his right foot. He said the ball hit the plastic part of the cleat, luckily, and didn't hurt.
"I couldn't believe it hit that spot," Edmonds said.
It didn't affect his offensive performance. Edmonds followed with a sharp single to left, and, in the fourth, smoked an RBI double to left-center that scored Rolen, who also hit a double and stole third on the previous pitch. So Taguchi pinch-ran for Edmonds, who left the field to much applause.
Edmonds hopes a new approach helped him collect those two hits. He said he is trying to be less of a pull hitter this year; a mindset which he felt hindered him last season, in which he hit .263, an average he said is "not good enough for me."
"It messed up my whole season and ruined my mental approach [last year]," Edmonds said.
Edmonds, who felt fine after the game, will not play in Sunday's game against the Braves, but said he will most likely play on Monday and see how he feels after that.
Rolen collects first hits of spring: Rolen hit a double in the fourth inning for his first hit of the spring, and followed with an RBI single in the fifth. Rolen, who stole just five bases in the last two years, also stole third base after hitting the double before scoring on Edmonds' double.
"When [Rolen and Edmonds] play well, we're a better looking team," manager Tony La Russa said.
Duncan's up-and-down day: Chris Duncan started in right field and misplayed a fly ball in the first inning, allowing Corey Patterson to reach second base with a double. However, Duncan later drew two walks, hit a single and scored a run. He also switched to first base later in the game.
McGee back: Former Cardinals great Willie McGee arrived in Jupiter on Wednesday, and will be helping with the team through March 21.
"It's something I've done all my life," said McGee, 47.
McGee coaches his daughter's 12-and-under softball team in San Pablo, Calif., and also helps out with the baseball team at Contra Costa Community College.
Baseball balancing act: Cardinals Hall of Famer Bob Gibson and starting pitcher Jason Marquis joked before the game in the locker room about the rigors of balancing baseball with family life. "If [my wife] can find a way to make $5 million, then I'll be happy to stay home," Marquis said.
Dog lover La Russa: Before the game, La Russa was paid a visit by the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach to do a photo shoot. La Russa, wearing his Animal Rescue Foundation ("ARF") necklace, rolled around with Jake, an 8-year-old boxer up for adoption.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Cardinals shut out Orioles

03/11/2006
Cardinals at the plate: Jim Edmonds opened the second inning with a sharp single to left, and in the fourth, smoked an RBI double to left-center that scored Scott Rolen, who also hit a double and stole third on the previous pitch. Rolen finished 2-for-3 with an RBI and catcher Gary Bennet had two hits and scored. David Eckstein was 1-for-3 with a double and two RBIs.
Orioles at the plate: Corey Patterson had two hits, including a double, and Kevin Millar, Jeff Fiorentino, Brandon Fahey and Ryan Hubele each singled. Ed Rogers added a double.
Cardinals on the mound: Jason Marquis allowed four hits and walked one in three innings of work. Jason Isringhausen (1-0) pitched one hitless inning to get the win. Carmen Cali allowed one hit in his inning. Tyler Johnson and John Webb each struck out two batters in one-inning stints. La Russa said that Webb was "most impressive" and that he walked right through the Orioles batters.
Orioles on the mound: Hayden Penn allowed two hits and no runs while striking out two in three innings. Vic Darensbourg (0-2) allowed two runs on three hits and walked two in one inning.
Grapefruit League records: Cardinals (5-5), Orioles (2-8)

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Daubach battles for roster spot

03/12/2006
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- With three weeks still left to go before Opening Day, Brian Daubach's chances of making the Cardinals roster are still up for debate.
But with six hits in his first 15 at-bats, Daubach has forced the Redbirds to consider him as a candidate to back up Albert Pujols; reason enough for the 34-year-old Belleville, Ill., native to smile.
"When you come to a new team and you're a non-roster guy, you've got to get off to a good start," said Daubach, who has homered twice and doubled twice in his last three games.
Once a mainstay in the Boston Red Sox lineup, Daubach has seen action only sparingly at the Major League level in the last few years. He starred last season at Triple-A Norfolk in the International League, leading the Mets organization with a .325 average, but was given only a brief look with the big-league club.
Even after regular first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz went down to injury, manager Willie Randolph instead gave playing time to veteran utility men such as Marlon Anderson and Chris Woodward, before finally settling on rookie Mike Jacobs to play down the stretch.
Jacobs hit 11 home runs in 100 at-bats, clearing the way for a trade to the Florida Marlins over the winter. And Daubach? He couldn't even get a September callup, calling the campaign "a wasted season."
"It was pretty disappointing," Daubach said, "because I'm somewhat proven. I've had some good years. For whatever reason, I didn't get that chance, so you just move on."
When Daubach left the Red Sox for the Chicago White Sox after the 2002 season, he scraped for playing time behind Paul Konerko and Frank Thomas. Returning to Boston in 2004, the Sox had things well in hand as they progressed toward their World Series win, snapping an 86-year title drought. And the Mets seemed to have no need for Daubach's services.
"But I haven't burned any bridges," Daubach said. "I want to stay in baseball long after my playing days. Sometimes there are hard situations to deal with, but you've just got to do the best you can. Sometimes biting your tongue is the best thing you can do."
He's hoping things turn around in St. Louis, where he will try to impress manager Tony La Russa enough to plead his case to become the Cards' left-handed bat off the bench and an option at first base or a corner outfield position.
"I'm just hoping I'll get an opportunity here," Daubach said. "Last year, I never really got comfortable. I'm the kind of guy who likes having a good time with my teammates, joking around with the guys and keeping guys loose."
Suppan looks super: Right-hander Jeff Suppan pitched well in his third start of the spring, limiting the Braves to a run on four hits over four innings. He said a major focus of his effort was to control his rhythm and stay consistent with his mechanics.
"I tried to really pick up my pace a little bit and go out and make pitches," Suppan said. "I went out with all my pitches today, including my cutter. I thought that was a big plus for me."
Suppan said he felt his location was better Sunday than it was in his first two starts of the spring, when he allowed nine runs to the Mets on March 2 and three runs to the Dodgers on March 7.
"He's a location and change of speeds pitcher," said pitching coach Dave Duncan. "It takes a little time during the spring to get all of your pitches going and get comfortable with them. He's doing good."
Later, the hurler laughingly reflected upon once enduring a season-long 0-for-44 slump, though he may be off to a better start in 2006. La Russa called a hit-and-run in Suppan's first at-bat of the spring, and Suppan delivered a single to center off Atlanta starter Chuck James in the third inning.
Suppan then had to run the bases, eventually making it to third base in a two-run Cardinals frame before taking the mound again in the fourth.
"Today was a good test," Suppan said.
It is the NL, after all: Cardinals pitchers will have plenty of chances to go through just what Suppan did on Saturday. La Russa said that St. Louis will opt to play by National League rules every chance they get for the remainder of Spring Training.
"Pitchers should get at least one at-bat," La Russa said.
Hello, Mateo: Rule 5 draftee Juan Mateo made his first appearance of the spring on Saturday, recording the final two outs of the sixth inning. Though it was just a sample, both La Russa and Duncan said they could see why the Cardinals drafted him.
The Cardinals had been reportedly unimpressed by the condition in which Mateo reported to camp, but he looked fine in getting Pete Orr to line out and Martin Prado to pop out.
"He shows you a good, live arm," Duncan said. "For what we're asking him to do, he's in shape to do that, as long as we don't push him."
Left out: The only Cardinals pitcher who came away from Saturday with a negative performance was Braden Looper, who allowed a three-run homer to Edgar Renteria and took the loss in St. Louis' 4-3 defeat.
"He made a mistake pitch and a clutch hitter took advantage," La Russa said. "He did some good things and then he made a mistake."
Duncan said the problem for Looper, who faced six batters and allowed four hits, is not velocity -- the scoreboard at Wide World of Sports flashed as high as 94 mph during Looper's two-out stint in the fifth inning.
Instead, Duncan said Looper must take care to resist throwing from directly over the top. When Looper is further down into an almost three-quarters arm slot, it improves his sinker, slider and split-finger pitch.
"He's not locating the ball where he needs to locate the ball," Duncan said.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Mateo faces critical days in camp

03/12/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- It hasn't been a clear path for Juan Mateo, but as long as the right-hander is in camp, he still has a chance.
Mateo, acquired from the Cubs in the Rule 5 Draft last winter, made his closest thing to a game appearance yet on Thursday. He pitched an extra inning against the Marlins. The only thing was, the game wasn't tied -- so it was an inning created just so Mateo could get some live work.
Mateo arrived in camp late, due to visa problems. When he finally did arrive in Jupiter, his arm wasn't quite in the condition the club expected, so he has yet to pitch an inning of a Grapefruit League game when the scores really counted.
Still, Mateo hasn't been offered back to the Cubs yet, and the Cards do like his arm. The coming days may be critical as the Cards try to make a decision on him.
On the move: First baseman/outfielder Chris Duncan has drilled the ball all spring, and Duncan keeps getting at-bats as a result. He throttled a pair of majestic home runs this week. Duncan could force his way onto the roster if he keeps hitting.
On the calendar: The Cardinals Minor League affiliates begin playing games on Wednesday. The majority of the games will take place on the fields at Roger Dean Stadium, either against Marlins Minor Leaguers or against teams visiting from out of town. The complex is well-suited to host several games at once.
Names in the game: As a catcher and utility man, Danny Sheaffer spent parts of seven seasons in the big leagues -- the last three with the Cardinals. In his final two years, manager Tony La Russa moved Sheaffer all over the field, playing him at first, second, third, left and right as well as behind the dish. Now Sheaffer manages the Cardinals' Triple-A Memphis affiliate. Sheaffer's last year in the Major Leagues was 1997, and by 1999 he was managing in the Minors.
Stat machine: Minor League signee Brian Daubach has six hits this spring -- four of them for extra bases, including two home runs.
What they're saying: "I really do like Rule 5 guys. I love bringing them in. Somebody you put in a draft on, they have to have big league talent. And so it's really neat to put them through the drills." -- La Russa

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Cardinals edged by Braves

03/12/2006
Braves at the plate: Edgar Renteria made his first two extra-base hits of the spring count. After hitting a double and scoring in the fourth, the former Cardinals shortstop drilled a three-run homer in the fifth inning. Matt Diaz contributed three singles.
Cardinals at the plate: Skip Schumaker and Jeff Suppan began the Cardinals' two-run third inning with consecutive singles. Chris Duncan added an RBI single in the frame.
Braves on the mound: Starter Chuck James allowed two earned runs and four hits in three innings. Joey Devine registered five strikeouts while completing two perfect innings.
Cardinals on the mound: Suppan allowed an earned run and four hits in four innings. Right-handed reliever Braden Looper allowed four hits, including Renteria's homer, surrendered four hits and retired just two of the six batters he faced.
Grapefruit League records: Cardinals 5-6; Braves 4-7-1.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Carpenter commanding in victory

03/13/2006
Braves at the plate: Edgar Renteria and Kelly Johnson provided consecutive one-out singles to account for the only hits the Braves registered off Cardinals starter Chris Carpenter. Wilson Betemit's fifth-inning single extended his hitting streak to 11 games.
Cardinals at the plate: Scott Rolen and Jim Edmonds capped their two-hit performances with consecutive singles to begin a three-run fifth inning that was highlighted with Scott Speizio's three-run blast off Wes Obermueller. Chris Duncan contributed two doubles and added a towering two-run homer off Obermueller in the sixth inning.
Braves on the mound: Starter John Thomson allowed four earned runs and eight hits in four innings. Obermueller allowed five earned runs and six hits in two innings. Chris Reitsma hit a batter, allowed a hit and registered a strikeout in a scoreless seventh inning.
Cardinals on the mound: Carpenter limited the Braves to just two hits and registered three strikeouts in four scoreless innings. He retired the first 10 batters he faced.
Grapefruit League Records: Cardinals 6-6; Braves 4-8-1.
Up next: The Braves will host the Astros on Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. ET. Tim Hudson will oppose Roy Oswalt. The Cardinals will send Sidney Ponson to the mound to face Randy Johnson and the Yankees at Legends Field on Tuesday at 1:15 p.m. ET.
On Carpenter: Carpenter extended his scoreless streak to 11 innings this spring. He walked his first batter of the spring, Johnson, in the first inning. Opponents are hitting .158 (6-38) against him in Grapefruit League competition.
"He is pitching at a very high level," said manager Tony La Russa. "It was more of the same of his great performances."
Carpenter also produced from the plate, swatting an RBI single over third to drive in Gary Bennett in the fourth.
"I feel stronger every time out," said Carpenter. "My arm is getting stronger. That is all that matters. My curveball had been a lot better the last two times out. Today, I couldn't get it out of the dirt. It got better as the game went along."
Dinkin' and Duncan: Duncan, who is competing for a roster spot at first base, right field and possibly left field, crushed a mammoth home run that exceeded 450 feet.
"He [Wes Obermueller] fell behind, 3-0," said Duncan. "I was looking for a fastball, and he threw it up and over the middle of the plate."
Quick hits: Cardinals pitchers have posted a 2.29 ERA (16 runs in 63 innings) over the last seven games. ... "You will see him tomorrow [against the Yankees]. He is taking good at-bats," said La Russa on Scott Rolen, who went 2-for-3 with an RBI. ... Deivi Cruz snapped an 0-14 start with a double to left-center in his first at-bat and followed it up with a perfect sacrifice bunt in the fourth. La Russa indicated he will get another start against the Yankees. ... Jeff Nelson pitched a scoreless fifth and got out of a bases-loaded jam. "I don't think he was happy with himself, but I thought he threw enough good pitches for a positive outing," said La Russa.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

New-look 'pen, same success expected

03/13/2006
A sign of the baseball free agency times is that a team may excel in one area and the following year may have to use much different personnel to maintain that success.
That is the case with the 2006 St. Louis Cardinals bullpen.
Last year, the Redbird relievers led the National League with a 3.17 ERA. However, with the retirement of Cal Eldred (38), the postseason Tommy John surgery of Al Reyes, the free agent departure of Julian Tavarez and the trade of Ray King to Colorado, St. Louis appeared vulnerable. This, combined with the nucleus of division rival Houston's bullpen returning intact, would perplex many organizations. Not so with the Cardinals.
"Every year, you have to retool your ballclub," commented St. Louis manager Tony La Russa. "Last year, we didn't have Steve Kline. That is where Randy Flores came in. We picked up Ricardo Rincon to go with Flores. We have two young guys, Carmen Cali and Tyler Johnson, that have Major League stuff."
La Russa expects last season's newcomers, Flores and right-hander Brad Thompson, to elevate and pitch more crucial innings.
"Thompson came in with very little experience and did an excellent job," remarked La Russa.
Jason Isringhausen shares La Russa's optimism.
"We should be right where we left off last season," said Isringhausen, who is beginning his seventh season as the Cardinals closer.
"A lot of our bullpen success comes from the quality starts by our staff," continued Isringhausen. "They made our job a lot easier. When four or five rested relievers have to get only a few outs, it puts us in a position to succeed."
La Russa plans to carry 12 pitchers for Opening Day. Expect La Russa to team with pitching coach Dave Duncan and continue the formula of combining young arms with a couple of veteran specialists, capped off by a steady dose of Isringhausen to close out games.
Rincon is another astute Walt Jocketty acquisition. He leads all Major League players, allowing only 19.2 percent of his inherited runners to score during his entire career, a statistic that has been officially recorded since 1974. Rincon is playing for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic.
"My brother, Ron, had a little time with him at Oakland last year and was very impressed with him," said Flores of Rincon. "He was very helpful to his teammates, as Ray King and Steve Kline were to me as I came up."
Braden Looper, the sometimes maligned closer for the New York Mets, returns to a right-handed setup role in which he shined for the Florida Marlins for five seasons.
"Being in this bullpen is an opportunity for me to win," said Looper. "There is a good mix of young guys and veterans."
After a rough outing Sunday against the Atlanta Braves, in which he gave up a three-run home run to Edgar Renteria, Looper assessed his performance.
"I have to get back to repeating my delivery. After pitching hurt all last year and having surgery, I am not as consistent as I need to be. However, I feel as good as I have in over a year. I feel strong."
Non-roster invitees Jeff Nelson and Alan Benes bring the experience that is a staple in Cardinals bullpens.
With 14 years of American League experience, Nelson is excited to play in the Senior Circuit. He especially relishes being in a bullpen that reminds him of his New York Yankees championship relief corps.
"It is almost like you are a rookie again," said Nelson. "There is a lot more situational play in the National League. In the AL, if the starters are strong, you could get four or five days off. Here, with pinch-hitting, you get to pitch a lot. I have always liked to work frequently."
La Russa likes the way Benes pitches out of difficult situations. He could copy the late career success his brother, Andy, had with the Cardinals.
The runner-up for the fifth starting assignment appears to fit the role of long relief specialist. Currently, a battle exists between veteran Sidney Ponson (29) and youngsters Anthony Reyes (24) and Adam Wainwright (24).
"I don't like to talk about them as relievers if they are currently starters," said La Russa. "But it is a possibility that they could be used in the bullpen."
Ponson, often criticized for his conditioning, is in great shape this spring and throwing well. Wainwright led the International League in innings pitched last year and never missed a start. Reyes is closer to being on the big league roster than at any time in his career.
"Reyes is a special talent," commented La Russa. "Wainwright has grown into a man. He has really filled out. Ponson is throwing hard and is in great shape."
If most of the expected evaluations of La Russa and Duncan are realized, Isringhausen's prediction of continued supremacy by the bullpen should come to fruition.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Lack of Cards in Classic

03/13/2006
Why are more of the Cardinal players not participating in the World Baseball Classic, especially Chris Carpenter?-- Mike W., St. Louis
Carpenter specifically discussed that very topic with reporters this week, so you can check out what he had to say.
As for others, there were a variety of reasons. Jason Isringhausen was interested until he realized the schedule. He decided that such a dramatic change to his routine didn't make sense. Remember, Izzy doesn't pitch in games at all for the first week of Grapefruit League contests, so it would be quite a shock to his system.
So Taguchi was never formally invited to play for Japan, but even if he had been, he would have prioritized his quest for a starting job with the Cardinals. Jim Edmonds apparently was never invited, which is downright bizarre. Scott Rolen, obviously, has physical issues to deal with.
For each guy there's a different reason, but rest assured the club isn't too distressed about the small number.
If Chris Duncan continues to hit the ball well and proves he can be more versatile in the field, will he have a legitimate shot at making the team?-- Sam R., St. Louis
When camp opened, I thought Duncan was a very long shot. Then again, I thought the same about John Gall, and he's looked very good, too. But now, I think there's a way for Duncan to force his way onto the roster. It would almost have to be as a 14th position player, because he's still a little rough at first base and in the outfield.
But as a hitter, he's really caught a lot of eyes this spring. His raw power is eye-popping -- the homer he hit in Viera was an absolute rocket. Duncan's power production hasn't always matched the distance he can hit a ball; if he's learning to bridge that gap, he's a very interesting player indeed.
I see a lot of athletes with tattoos but can't see any on Cardinals players. Is this happenstance or team policy?-- Brent B., Jefferson City, Mo.
You just haven't seen them, Brent. Believe me, they're there. Scott Spiezio has a famous tattoo of his wife on his arm. Tyler Johnson has some serious ones. They're far from the only ones. They may not be publicized a lot, but they're there.
I was wondering what you thought about Aaron Miles' chance of clinching the starting second base spot. He's hitting well this spring and thus far Junior Spivey has looked like the Spivey of 2005.-- Daniel K., Indianapolis
I still think Miles is the third horse in a three-horse race, but he could pass the other two. His early-camp injury didn't help matters at all, because he needs to be playing to compete. He could do it, though.
Be patient with Spivey, however. He's started to show some signs of coming around, both offensively and defensively. I believe he is the favorite, and additionally, it's clear that Tony La Russa is deeply fascinated by Hector Luna's potential.
Oh, also, I'm sorry your Butler Bulldogs didn't win the Horizon League, Daniel. I was pulling for them against Milwaukee.
Just wondering what you think the bullpen will look like on Opening Day. I know the Cards have five of them in good shape -- Jason Isringhausen, Braden Looper, Ricardo Rincon, Brad Thompson and Randy Flores. Who do you think will nab the last two spots? Go Cards!-- Mark C., Benton, Ky.
We were just discussing the topic in the media workroom the other day, and there were some differences of opinion. First, there's no guarantee the Cardinals will take 12 pitchers. It could be 11, which would mean six relievers -- which would mean the last spot would almost certainly be a long man, likely one of the guys who lost out in the fifth-starter race.
My guess as of right now is that Sidney Ponson will win the fifth spot, and Anthony Reyes will be in the bullpen. I'd guess Jeff Nelson is also there, with a 12-man staff. I also think Tyler Johnson has something of a spot, as does Alan Benes. Brian Falkenborg and Brad Voyles shouldn't be ruled out.
I'm a big Jose Oquendo fan. Do you think he will ever become a Major League manager, and do you know if he has had any offers?-- Tom B. Peoria, Ill.
I think Oquendo will manage, and I think his experience managing Team Puerto Rico this week can only help. He's exceptionally knowledgeable and players really seem to respond to him. I don't think it will be next year, but I think it will happen.
I've been hearing that Miguel Cabrera is going to be on the trading block at midseason's trading deadline. I was just wondering, what are the chances the Cardinals will try to trade for him? I know it's a little early to talk about it but I think he would fit in well with the Cardinals.-- Ricky B., St. Louis
I was hoping to avoid this topic, because I think it's really idle speculation at this point, but a lot of y'all asked. So here goes.
First, Cabrera would be a good fit anywhere. He's simply an incredible hitter, a great ballplayer. There aren't five guys in baseball that I would trade him for straight-up.
Second, I guarantee Walt Jocketty will call Larry Beinfest. He'd have to be a fool not to at least find out the asking price, and even if you don't like every move Walt makes, he's quite clearly not a fool.
Third is the hard part, though. Every GM is going to be calling about Cabrera. And what the Marlins are going to want is young talent -- something the Cardinals don't have in nearly the supply that teams like the Angels, Dodgers and Diamondbacks do.
Finally, though I think there's a good chance Cabrera opens the 2007 season for someone other than the Marlins, I'm not sure a move will happen as soon as this offseason. If I'm the Marlins, I would wait and see how potential relocation works out. You never know -- in a year they might have something set up that would allow them to afford him.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Ponson makes his case

03/14/2006
TAMPA, Fla. -- Sidney Ponson passed another test in his audition for the fifth spot in the St. Louis rotation Tuesday when the right-hander turned in his strongest outing of the spring.
Ponson took the mound against Randy Johnson and the New York Yankees at Legends Field and held the Yankees to a run on four hits in four innings. He did not walk anyone and allowed just two baserunners. Of the 48 pitches Ponson threw, 31 were strikes.
"I feel much better, I kept the ball down in the zone a little more than I did last time," Ponson said. "I was pretty happy with the way I threw today, but I still have to work on a couple of little things. But the main thing I was able to work on was keeping the ball down in the zone, and 75 percent of the time I was able to do that."
Ponson did a good job of keeping most of his pitches low. Eight of the 12 outs he recorded came via ground balls. One pitch he did leave up, a fastball to Robinson Cano in the fourth, accounted for the only run Ponson would allow when the Yankee second baseman hit the ball out of the park.
"The home run was up in the zone," Ponson said. "I threw more changeups, sliders and fastballs today. I threw a couple of curveballs. I'm trying to incorporate the curveball in my repertoire, I last used it a couple years ago. Hopefully I'll get that back so hitters cannot sit on certain pitches."
Ponson said his stamina is where it needs to be at this point in the spring, and his focus is on building arm strength. He is curious to see how his arm rebounds tomorrow and does not know when he pitches next. But he is pleased with his preparations thus far in what for him is a different kind of Spring Training than he had in his years with Baltimore.
"In Baltimore, I pushed the envelope a little bit more, because I was a veteran over there," Ponson said. "Now I'm just ... fighting for a spot to start or in the bullpen."
Ponson, who is competing with Anthony Reyes and Adam Wainwright for the final spot in the rotation behind Chris Carpenter, Mark Mulder, Jeff Suppan and Jason Marquis, has given up one earned run and only five hits in his last eight innings. Overall, in three Grapefruit League appearances, including two starts, the 29-year-old is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA.
If Ponson wins the final spot in the St. Louis rotation, the Cardinals could have another right-hander capable of taking care of 150-200 innings. Two years ago, Ponson led the American League with five complete games. He has pitched 210 innings or more in four of the last seven seasons.
The Cardinals signed the free agent to a $1 million contract that includes an additional $1.5 million in incentives based on the number of starts he makes.
Reyes makes his pitch: Reyes didn't hurt his chances, either. The right-hander pitched four innings and allowed two runs on five hits, struck out two and did not walk anyone.
"Nobody has eliminated themselves from anything," Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan said. "They both looked good today, and so has Adam Wainwright."
"I feel like I'm definitely improving," Reyes said. "I felt more confident today, each time I've gone out there I think I've improved."
Rolen along: Scott Rolen started and hit third against the Yankees, marking the first time this spring the third baseman has started consecutive games at his position.
Rolen, who is coming back from surgery after a shoulder injury limited him to 56 games last season, flied out each time in three at-bats, including a drive to the warning track in left-center field with the bases loaded and two outs in the fifth.
"I feel good," Rolen said. "At this point, the only thing I'm trying to do is accumulate at-bats and get my work in, and so far that's what I'm doing."
Rolen played errorless defense and made a nice play to throw out Yankees shortstop Felix Escalona in the third inning.
"Everything feels normal," Rolen said. "No problems at all."
Family affair: The Duncan family had a reunion of sorts as Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan and his two sons, Cardinals infielder/outfielder Chris Duncan and Yankees infielder Shelley Duncan were all on the field together.
Shelley Duncan went 0-for-1 to drop his batting average to .391. Chris Duncan hit his fourth home run of the spring and drove in two runs, and is hitting .325.
"It was pretty nice to have both my boys on the field at the same time," Dave Duncan said.
Chris Duncan, the only left-handed hitter in the starting lineup against Randy Johnson, rocketed a 2-0 fastball from the Big Unit over the right-field fence in the fifth inning. It was Duncan's fourth homer of the spring and second in as many days.
"It was pretty neat for all three of us to be out there," Chris Duncan said. "It was good to see [Eric], I hadn'd seen him in a while."
Chris Duncan's torrid March -- his 28 total bases ranks third among in the Grapefruit League and his four doubles were tied for first entering Tuesday's game -- might make things interesting when rosters have to be trimmed. He has hit safely in four consecutive games and has reached base nine of his last 16 plate appearances.
"I'm not thinking about that at all," he said. "I'm just trying to do the best I can."
La Russa blogs: Cardinals manager Tony La Russa is now blogging on mlblogs.com. The St. Louis skipper's first blog was posted Tuesday in conjunction with La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation. ARF is a charity organization which seeks to save dogs and cats who have run out of time at public shelters and brings people and animals together to enrich each other's lives.
Quotable: "Once in a while I let the frustration out. I try not to show it. Hopefully you guys won't hear that much." -- Ponson, on briefly showing his anger with himself after throwing a bad pitch during Tuesday's game
Extra bases: The Cardinals' visit to Legends Field to play the New York Yankees on Tuesday was their first visit there since the 1997 season, when the Cardinals trained in St. Petersburg. ... Junior Spivey was hit on the left forearm by a pitch from Yankees reliever Kyle Farnsworth, but Spivey said he was OK and did not have anything more serious than a bruise.
On deck: Their three-game road trip to central and west Florida completed, the Cardinals return to Roger Dean Stadium for a game Wednesday against the Florida Marlins beginning at 12:05 p.m. CT. Left-hander Mark Mulder will make his third start of the spring and second against the Marlins. Sergio Mitre will be on the hill for the Fish.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Duncan drives Cards past Yankees

03/14/2006
Yankees at the plate: Robinson Cano went 2-for-4 with a solo home run in the fourth inning, his second homer of the spring. Jason Giambi returned to the lineup for the first time in more than a week, going 0-for-2 with an RBI sacrifice fly in the sixth.
Cardinals at the plate: Chris Duncan drove in two of the Cardinals' three runs, one on a solo homer against Randy Johnson in a two-run fifth inning. Duncan drove in the game-winner in the eighth, plating Larry Bigbie to snap a 2-2 tie.
Yankees on the mound: Johnson looked sharp during his first four innings, allowing just one hit. The Big Unit gave up two runs in the fifth, including the home run by Duncan. Johnson finished the day after five, charged with two runs on five hits and a walk, striking out four. Mariano Rivera threw a perfect sixth inning. Tanyon Sturtze allowed one run in the eighth, taking the loss.
Cardinals on the mound: Sidney Ponson started the game, allowing one run on two hits -- one a homer by Cano -- over four innings. Ponson, who is battling for the fifth starter spot, did not walk or strike out any hitters. Jason Isringhausen pitched a scoreless fifth inning for St. Louis. Anthony Reyes pitched three innings of one-run ball for the victory.
Grapefruit League records: Yankees 6-8; Cardinals 7-6.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Cards shuffle spring rotation

03/15/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- The Cardinals will tweak their rotation over the coming days in order to make sure that all of their fifth-starter candidates get one more start before the competition wraps up.
Sidney Ponson and Anthony Reyes have been pitching on the same day, with one starting and one relieving, but that setup is no longer workable as each man has upped his expected pitch count. Similarly, Adam Wainwright can no longer get all of his work in on the same day as Mark Mulder -- Wainwright has been pitching in relief on the days Mulder starts.
So the Cardinals will make some accommodations. Wainwright, originally slated to pitch on Wednesday against Florida, will start Thursday against Baltimore. Thursday's previously scheduled starter, Jason Marquis, will pitch for Triple-A Memphis instead.
Ponson will make his regular turn on Sunday. Reyes will be pushed back a day to pitch Monday against Atlanta and Mulder's next start will come in a Triple-A game on Monday.
"With three guys, it was OK to split games, but now it's getting to where it's tougher," said manager Tony La Russa. "And you don't get the experience of starting the game. Anthony's had one of them, Adam's had none of them."
Whither Ankiel? Depending on whom you ask, Rick Ankiel is either still progressing well from his patellar tendon strain or he needs to be backed off a bit. Ankiel remains cautiously optimistic, but La Russa said Thursday that Ankiel will be held back.
"He was going to be in [a simulated game] today and had to be scratched because of the medical evaluation," said the manager.
"He's got a partial patellar tendon tear, right? So the prognosis about when he could play without rupturing it is really uncertain, and we don't want to push him to where he ruptures it, and if he had surgery he's out for the year. So he's really in a tough spot. He's taking BP, but he can't jump and can't run."
That was news to Ankiel, who said he did light running on Tuesday and expects to do so again on Thursday.
"He must be on a different page, because I jogged yesterday and everything was fine," said Ankiel. "So I don't know."
"It just seems to be getting better. Yesterday I did my running and everything was fine. Today it felt good, tomorrow I'll run again, Friday I'll run again."
Hanson plays: Travis Hanson, recovering from an internal parasite that sapped him of strength and caused him to lose 12 pounds, took the field on Wednesday for the first time in more than a week.
Hanson took at-bats in a morning simulated game. He said he felt heavily taxed to be back on the field.
"I felt like I had nothing on my throws, nothing on my bat," he said. "It's just going to be a slow process to get back, but oh well. I just got sent down, so I can take my time down there and not rush it."
Hanson was optioned to the Minors following Wednesday's game.
More moves: The Cardinals intended to make several other cuts on Wednesday, but two of the players left before La Russa was able to talk with them. He confirmed that Hanson was sent out, and that John Webb was re-assigned to Minor League camp, but did not divulge additional names.
More seasoning: Chris Duncan has been the most impressive hitter in camp to date, but he won't break camp with the Major League team. Duncan, 24, has four home runs and four doubles, including a long ball off Randy Johnson on Tuesday in Tampa.
"He won't make this team," said La Russa. "He's a guy that's taking the extra at-bats, and I think it's been really good for him and us, but he's working at a new position and the guys ahead of him [need to play]. I'm not going to put him on the bench [to be a] part-time player."
Duncan came up as a first baseman, but that job is blocked by Albert Pujols, so the Cards have been working him in the outfield. The plan is for Duncan to return to the Minors for another year of getting regular at-bats and playing the field.
"He will play in the big leagues," La Russa said. "When? I don't know."
Mulder cruises: Mulder continued his breeze through Spring Training on Wednesday with four solid innings. Mulder held the Marlins to one run on four hits, striking out two and not issuing a walk. Through three starts, he's permitted two runs in 10 2/3 innings (1.69 ERA) with six strikeouts and two walks.
"I think I'm where I want to be, especially physically," he said. "I wasn't tired at all in the fourth inning. I didn't feel as good today as I did my first two starts, but I had a great curveball today, throwing it for strikes."
Bits and pieces: Minor League Spring Training games began on Wednesday with five games between Cardinals farmhands and their Marlins counterparts. ... Dallas Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells, a friend of La Russa's, dropped by camp for a visit on Wednesday. ... The Cardinals will don green uniforms and caps for Friday, which is St. Patrick's Day. ... The Cardinals played before 30,112 fans over their three-game road trip to Orlando and Tampa. ... Brian Daubach homered in two different Minor League games on Wednesday. Daubach played for both Triple-A Memphis and Double-A Springfield in order to get some extra at-bats.
Quotable: "Coming in out of the bullpen, it's very important to keep the ball on the ground, and if you can do that and you can stay ahead in the count, you're going to have a chance to make this club." -- Alan Benes

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Mulder sharp as Cards tie Marlins

03/15/2006
Marlins at the plate: Reggie Abercrombie's RBI double in the second inning scored Miguel Olivo, who singled. Abercrombie added a single. In the fifth inning, the Marlins went up, 2-1, on Hanley Ramirez's two-out RBI single to left. Chris Aguila, who singled, scored on the line drive to left.
Cardinals at the plate: To open the second inning, Scott Spiezio doubled down the line in right field. Two batters later, Larry Bigbie chopped an RBI single over a drawn-in infield. Chris Duncan's run-scoring single in the sixth inning tied the game at 2.
Marlins on the mound: Sergio Mitre tossed five solid innings, allowing one run on two hits with five strikeouts and a hit batter. Yusmeiro Petit tossed three scoreless innings of relief, allowing one walk. Travis Bowyer worked out of a bases-loaded, two-out jam in the 10th inning by striking out Hector Luna.
Cardinals on the mound: Mark Mulder was unable to pick up his third win, but the left-hander was impressive through four innings. He yielded one run on four hits with two strikeouts and no walks. Alan Benes gave up an unearned run in two innings of relief. Randy Flores tossed two scoreless innings, and was the beneficiary of a great throw by left fielder John Gall to peg Mike Kinkade out at the plate, preserving the tie. Gall threw out Kinkade trying to score on Mickey Lopez's single.
Grapefruit League records: Marlins 10-4-2; Cardinals 7-6-1.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Cards fall to Orioles in ninth

03/16/2006
Orioles at the plate: Brian Bock's two-run ninth-inning single broke a tie and lifted the Orioles to victory. Nick Markakis collected a pair of singles and scored a run. Brandon Fahey drove in a run with a force out and Eli Whiteside added a sacrifice fly.
Cardinals at the plate: Scott Rolen and Skip Schumaker each contributed RBI singles. Schumaker and So Taguchi each reached base twice, with a walk and a hit.
Orioles on the mound: Starter Eric DuBose was touched for two runs on four hits over three innings. Cory Morris was stellar in relief with three hitless innings, and Tim Byrdak and Scott Rice (1-0) each pitched a shutout inning. Eddy Rodriguez picked up the save with a scoreless ninth.
Cardinals on the mound: Adam Wainwright was effective but unlucky as the starter, allowing two unearned runs over four innings. Josh Hancock pitched two perfect innings in relief, and Jeff Nelson was also unscored upon. Brad Thompson (0-1) took the loss.
Grapefruit League records: Orioles 6-9; Cardinals 7-7-1.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Wainwright showing he's learning

03/17/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- If the last thing to come for a young pitcher is a feel for the game, Adam Wainwright is showing that he's closer than ever to being ready.
Wainwright was touched for two runs over four innings in his first start of the spring Thursday, but neither tally was earned, and the right-hander escaped some dangerous jams. Likely a long shot to crack the Cardinals rotation, Wainwright made the most of what may be his last stand.
After pitching Wainwright in relief for the first two weeks of the spring, the Cardinals tweaked their rotation in order to give him a start. He showed that if he is called upon during the season, he has a chance to be successful.
"I'm way more apt to get out of something I'm struggling with on the mound right now than I've ever been in my career," he said. "I think the years of tooling around in the Minors have helped me a lot. I've just got to move on from there."
Wainwright entered camp as the third horse in a three-way race to make the Cardinals rotation, with Sidney Ponson and Anthony Reyes seemingly ahead of him on the depth chart. He's pitched at least as well as the other two, if not better.
And it's as much mental as it is physical. When Wainwright first arrived in Jupiter two years ago as part of the trade that sent J.D. Drew to Atlanta, he was already considered possibly the organization's best prospect. His stuff was electric, his command solid.
Now he's putting all that together with other parts of the game. And when the going gets tough, he can get out of it.
"There's no doubt I'm more adept at that this year than I ever have been," he said. "I'm a much smarter pitcher on the mound. I'm watching things that I've never watched before when I'm not pitching.
"I used to just kind of sit around, and [Jeff Suppan] would give me a lot of trouble for it. I used to sit around and kind of fool around while the game was going on when I wasn't pitching. Now I'm trying to learn things when I'm not pitching."
Suppan has taken notice, and he approves of the progress of the 24-year-old.
"He came over in a trade, new lockerroom, and he was probably nervous and trying to figure his way around," said Suppan. "Now, having two full seasons, getting a chance to come up last year, I think he looks really good."
On Thursday, when Wainwright found himself in a situation that called for a groundball, he pounded his two-seam fastball down in the strike zone and got the worm-killer. That sinker is new to Wainwright as of last spring, and he's used it to his advantage.
But when he needs to throw it past someone, he can dial up a four-seamer that not only blazes, it moves as well.
"I think he's pitching with more confidence," said manager Tony La Russa. "He's got more experience and he's got more weapons when he goes out there. They all fit."

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Eckstein gets a sick day

03/16/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- The Cardinals sent shortstop David Eckstein home on Thursday after he arrived at camp complaining of stomach sickness. Head athletic trainer Barry Weinberg characterized the illness as the "stomach flu," and said Eckstein was sent home for rest.
It's the second internal illness for a Cardinals infielder this month. Travis Hanson battled a parasite that caused him to lose 12 pounds.
Eckstein was originally in the lineup for Thursday's game against Baltimore, but he was scratched. Hector Luna, initially expected to play right field, was moved to shortstop, while Skip Schumaker was inserted in right field and the leadoff spot.
"Barry just came in and said he's not feeling well," said manager Tony La Russa.
Ank's status: Weinberg provided a little clarification on the situation surrounding Rick Ankiel's troublesome left knee. Ankiel is trying to recover from a strained patellar tendon.
He is progressing gradually from the injury, which he sustained on Feb. 27. He has not played in a game this spring.
"It's a day-by-day thing, but it's not a 'Something's going to happen tomorrow that's going to make him feel good' thing," Weinberg said. "It's going to be a length-of-time thing. Right now, you say it's an undetermined length of time. You take little steps and see how he does. You've just got to be real careful."
Weinberg acknowledged that there is a good chance Ankiel will not get in any Grapefruit League games. The Cardinals break camp on April 1, two weeks from Saturday.
"There's a lot of things [that need to be done]," said Weinberg. "He's got to go through an entire running program, he's got to go through a bounding program, a plyometric program. You're not talking days.
"Right now, it's hard to say. But you've got to think the process will take longer than a couple weeks -- if successful."
Miles smiles: Aaron Miles made his first game appearance since March 3 on Thursday. Miles, who sustained a bone bruise on his left hand, grounded out as a pinch-hitter in the fourth inning. He is expected to start on Friday.
"He was happy," Weinberg said. "He said it was the best jam shot he's ever hit."
Wainwright impresses: Adam Wainwright pitched four fine innings Thursday in his first start of the spring after two relief appearances. Wainwright allowed two unearned runs on three hits.
He's held his own in the competition with Sidney Ponson and Anthony Reyes for the fifth spot in the starting rotation. Wainwright insists, though, that he's not viewing his games within the context of the other two pitchers.
"I'm really not going to be real subjective this year," he said. "I'm just going to go out there, pitch my game, do all I can to try to make this team, and hopefully I will."
Tougher cuts: The Cardinals formally announced their latest full round of cuts on Thursday, and for the first time the moves included players who might have had reasonable shots at making the big league club. In addition to optioning prospects Hanson and Brendan Ryan to the Minors, the Cards re-assigned four pitchers to Minor League camp: Blaine Neal, John Riedling, John Webb and Brad Voyles.
Voyles had been particularly impressive, pitching 6 1/3 shutout innings with four strikeouts and no walks thus far. All four had pitched at least fairly well. Riedling's quest for a roster spot was hindered when he came down with a sore shoulder. It's unclear how long he'll be sidelined.
"I think in Neal's case, he showed real good ability, it was just a matter of consistency," said La Russa. "I thought Voyles and Webb really did a good job in first impressions. It's easy with Hanson and Ryan -- (Minor League teams) have started playing games and they need to get in games regularly. Riedling got the ball down, he was excellent. And then he got hurt. So he's just got to get healthy."
One non-roster player who survived the cuts was Josh Hancock, who signed a Minor League deal after being cut by the Reds. Hancock has yet to allow a run in 5 1/3 innings over four appearances.
"He's done a good job," said La Russa. "He's gotten breaking balls in tough spots, got a nice changeup, he's throwing the ball down and up when he's supposed to."
Three other non-roster pitchers remain in camp: Alan Benes, Brian Falkenborg and Jeff Nelson. Including players at the World Baseball Classic, the Cards have 34 players in Major League camp.
Back to camp: Yadier Molina and third-base coach Jose Oquendo are expected to return to Jupiter on Thursday night and should be in camp on Friday. Molina was a backup catcher for Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, and Oquendo was the team's manager. Puerto Rico suffered a heartbreaking 4-3 loss to Cuba on Wednesday night. For the tournament, Molina went 3-for-5 in four games.
Marquis mows down 51s: Jason Marquis pitched in a Triple-A game on Thursday afternoon so that Wainwright could get his first Major League start of the spring. Marquis started for Memphis against the Dodgers' Las Vegas affiliate. He pitched 4 1/3 shutout innings, allowing four hits, striking out five and walking one.
Bits and pieces: Legendary announcer Bob Sheppard, the voice of Yankee Stadium, will introduce the lineups for Friday's Cardinals-Yankees game at Roger Dean Stadium. ... NFL Hall of Famer Bob Griese dropped by camp on Thursday. ... Outfielder Daryl Jones, the Cards' third-round draft pick from last year, is battling a mild quadriceps strain and is expected to be out for a few days.
Quotable: "I talked to him yesterday and wished him well. I'd have second-guessed him if he'd have pinch-run Yadier for Pudge [Rodriguez]." -- La Russa on Oquendo
Weather report: Friday should be a little bit warmer and still magnificent. The forecast calls for a high of 81, occasional clouds, almost no chance of rain and light wind. Florida is a fine place to be in March.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Molina enjoys time at Classic

03/17/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- Always a happy sort, Yadier Molina was beaming even more than usual in the Cardinals clubhouse at Roger Dean Stadium on Friday morning. Despite only five at-bats in the World Baseball Classic, Molina had the time of his life in the tournament.
Playing for the Puerto Rican team, which was eliminated Wednesday evening, Molina went 3-for-5 while serving as the backup catcher. Puerto Rico played three games at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, in front of frenzied crowds.
"It was unbelievable," said Molina. "It was like playing in the World Series. Everybody was excited."
Molina sat on the bench behind Ivan Rodriguez for the most part, but he had no complaints. He knew in advance that he wouldn't see a lot of playing time. Simply putting on the Puerto Rico jersey on a team filled with stars like Rodriguez and Bernie Williams was thrill enough.
"Amazing," he said. "I can't explain it. It's an amazing feeling playing in front of your family. It's something you can't explain. To represent your country is something you want one time in your life."
Molina cited Williams as a hero and said it was a "dream come true" to play with the ex-Yankees star. But now it's back to business, and he'll catch the first four games upon his return to camp.
"It was a great experience for him," said manager Tony La Russa. "I'm sure because he's a very smart guy he observed. He was around pressure situations. I think it was really good for him."
Molina looked just as sharp upon his return as he did before he left. He rapped a pair of base hits, drew a walk and caught all nine innings of a 5-2 win over the Yankees.
Eck's progress: David Eckstein returned to camp on Friday feeling much more spry than he had a day earlier. Eckstein came down with what he termed a "24-hour flu" that forced him to leave camp Thursday.
"I feel a lot better," he said.
Eckstein will make the trip to Fort Lauderdale on Saturday and will start against the Orioles.
"He came in, he's feeling better, but he hasn't eaten," La Russa said Friday morning. "So he's weak. He's going to work out and he'll make the trip tomorrow."
Bigbie sore: On the travel roster for Saturday's trip to Fort Lauderdale, Larry Bigbie's name had a question mark next to it, rather than a check mark. That's indicative of Bigbie's status -- he's dealing with some tendinitis in his left Achilles tendon.
That's the opposite ankle from the one that bothered him for much of last season.
"The Achilles is barking," said La Russa. "You take all that stuff seriously."
Miles starts: Aaron Miles made his first start in two weeks Friday, but his appearance was brief. Miles, who is recovering from a bone bruise on his left hand, started at second base and got two plate appearances in the leadoff slot.
The problem is that the bruise still hinders the switch-hitting Miles when he bats right-handed. So after his two chances against righty Shawn Chacon, he was lifted when the Yankees brought in a left-hander.
"I'm making good strides from the right side," said Miles. "I swung a little bit in the cages and I feel a little better."
It's been a tough go for Miles, who entered the spring as a competitor for the second-base job. Missing two weeks has made it difficult to make an impression.
"It's a long season," he said. "I want to be a productive player. It's tough going through this little period right here, but hopefully a month from now I won't even be thinking about it."
Assembling the puzzle: La Russa said Friday he is currently leaning toward carrying 12 pitchers, rather than 11, on the Opening Day roster. That means seven relief spots, with five all but sewn up; Jason Isringhausen, Braden Looper, Ricardo Rincon, Brad Thompson and Randy Flores are all expected to be on the squad.
In the other two spots, one is expected to be a long reliever -- perhaps one of the runners-up for the fifth starter battle, perhaps Josh Hancock. The other spot could go from anyone to a left-hander like Tyler Johnson to a righty such as Brian Falkenborg or Jeff Nelson.
"That doesn't mean it can't be 11, but more probably [12] right now," La Russa said. "We always go in thinking we're going to protect our pitching. I would love to have that sixth player."
Bits and pieces: New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick visited La Russa and the Cardinals on Friday. ... The Cardinals wore green jerseys and caps for the St. Patrick's Day contest, which was a sellout. ... Team Mexico was eliminated from the World Baseball Classic on Thursday night, meaning that Rincon is expected back any day. Rincon made four appearances, allowing no runs, no hits and no walks in 2 2/3 innings. ... Sunday's game against the Braves will be carried on MLB.TV and FOX Sports Net Midwest.
Quotable: "I wasn't expecting the crowd. That many people there, I wasn't expecting that. That surprised me, like 22,000. That many people live in Puerto Rico?" -- Molina, on World Baseball Classic attendance in San Juan
Weather report: Saturday should be the definition of meteorological perfection. The forecasted high is 81 degrees, with no clouds and no rain. Wear plenty of sunscreen if you're coming out to Fort Lauderdale Stadium.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Gall's sac fly lifts Cards past Yanks

03/17/2006
Yankees at the plate: Miguel Cairo, Jason Giambi and Russ Johnson all doubled, and Kelly Stinnett had a pair of base hits. Gary Sheffield's sac fly and Kevin Thompson's single brought home the two Yankees runs.
Cardinals at the plate: John Gall's eighth-inning sacrifice fly broke a tie and sent the Cardinals to the win, and Hector Luna followed it up with a two-run single for insurance. Deivi Cruz hit a solo home run, his first long ball (and third hit) of the spring. Yadier Molina singled twice, walked and drove in a run.
Yankees on the mound: Shawn Chacon worked out of trouble repeatedly, but ultimately had a decent result. Chacon gave up a run on five hits and two walks over 3 2/3 innings. Scott Proctor breezed through two hitless innings of relief. Jose Veras was charged with all four runs in St. Louis' game-winning eighth-inning rally.
Cardinals on the mound: Jeff Suppan turned in his second consecutive solid start, allowing two runs over 4 1/3 innings with two strikeouts and no walks. Carmen Cali got out of a tough jam in relief of Suppan in the fifth and totaled 1 2/3 shutout innings.
Grapefruit League records: Yankees 7-11; Cardinals 8-7-1.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Carpenter hot in Spring Training

03/18/2006
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Chris Carpenter swears that Spring Training games are nothing like regular-season tilts. His manager asserts that part of the reason Carpenter has so much success in the spring is that he treats it just like the season.
Carpenter pitched five near-perfect innings on Saturday, holding the Orioles scoreless on two hits with three strikeouts and no walks. Out of 16 batters, three hit the ball to an outfielder.
The spiffy showing improved Carpenter's spring scoreless streak to 16 innings. He's made four starts and hasn't been touched for a run.
"I'm just trying to get ready to go," he said. "When the lights turn on on April 3, it's a lot different than it is down here. I'm happy with making pitches, and if I continue to make pitches the way I've been making pitches, I'll be fine."
Manager Tony La Russa marveled at Carpenter's sharpness.
"Mentally, he's concentrating really well," said La Russa. "He hasn't let anything get away from him. I think that's where it starts.
"I just don't think he's thinking Spring Training. I think he's thinking competition. He's worked hard to get himself in shape."
Coming off one of the finest years by a St. Louis pitcher in recent memory, Carpenter said that his bread-and-butter pitch -- his two-seam sinking fastball -- may be better than it was in 2005.
"I've been excited about my sinker all spring, because it's been better than it's been in the past," he said. "All spring it's been better than it was. I think it goes to arm strength and a couple more years off surgery."
Carpenter has two more starts remaining before the regular season begins.
Bigbie getting better: Though he was scratched from the trip to Fort Lauderdale, Larry Bigbie reported that his sore Achilles' tendon was feeling much better on Saturday. Bigbie, diagnosed with tendinitis, had actually hoped to make the trek to face his old team.
"I'm staying behind today, hopefully I'll get in tomorrow," he said. "I'm fine. It wasn't even a big deal. Not a major thing. I didn't think it was going to keep me out of playing much."
Bigbie's soreness is in his left ankle, the opposite leg from the one that bothered him for much of 2005.
Rincon's return: Left-hander Ricardo Rincon walked into the Cardinals clubhouse on Saturday morning and was a bit puzzled. He looked at where his locker was last located, and all he saw was a vacant row.
It's been a while since Rincon was last seen at Roger Dean Stadium, and during that time a number of players were cut and lockers were shifted around. In the meantime, Rincon pitched for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic. But he returned to Florida on Friday night, and he's eager to get in some Grapefruit League games.
"I'm ready," said Rincon. "I'll maybe pitch tomorrow."
Rincon was busy, getting in four games during the tournament. He estimated that he needs five or six more games to be ready for the season.
Mexico went 1-2 in the second round of pool play, but the team scored a big win over Team USA in its final game. The loss sent the U.S. team home, but Rincon took no special satisfaction in eliminating the Americans. Rather, he was just delighted to don the red, green and white of his home country.
"It's very good to represent your country," he said. "Everybody who did play for Mexico is happy."
A win is a win: Puerto Rico was eliminated from the World Baseball Classic while the Dominican Republic plays on, but the Puerto Rican club did pick up some memorable wins along the way. The team of Yadier Molina and Jose Oquendo throttled Albert Pujols' Dominican team, 7-1, in Game 1 of the second round.
And don't think that won't lead to a little chatter in the clubhouse. When Pujols returns, he will find a little present. Hanging over his locker in Jupiter on Saturday morning was a large Puerto Rican flag with a note that read:
"Y quien es tu papa?And who is your daddy?"
For what it's worth, Molina pleaded innocence -- and wondered what Pujols' reaction will be upon his return.
Bits and pieces: David Eckstein returned to the lineup on Saturday after missing two games due to a stomach ailment. ... Through six appearances, Brian Falkenborg has yet to be charged with a run. ... Brian Daubach has nine RBIs in 24 at-bats. ... Sunday's game against the Braves will be carried on FOX Sports Net Midwest, and the Monday contest with Atlanta will air on ESPN.
Quotable: "I'd say the quality of his outings [is] as good as anybody around right now." -- La Russa, on Carpenter
Weather report: It's as though someone just left the forecast on "repeat." Sunday in Jupiter should be another beautiful day, with a high of 80 degrees, perhaps a few clouds rolling in later in the afternoon and zero chance of rain.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Carpenter sharp as Cards blank O's

03/18/2006
Cardinals at the plate: John Rodriguez walked in the second inning and scored from first on Yadier Molina's double to the left-center gap. John Gall drove in two runs with a double in the third inning, and Rodriguez followed with a run-scoring single. Chris Duncan and Brian Daubach contributed sacrifice flies for the road team.
Orioles at the plate: Luis Matos and Ramon Hernandez were the only Orioles to reach base against Chris Carpenter. Matos singled in the fourth and was erased on a double play. Hernandez singled in the fifth. Javy Lopez doubled down the right-field line in the seventh inning, and Luis Lopez hit a double in the eighth.
Cardinals on the mound: Carpenter was untouchable, working five innings and facing just one batter over the minimum. The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner pitched three hitless innings before allowing a single in the fourth, and he erased that runner with a double play. Juan Mateo and Alan Benes pitched scoreless relief innings.
Orioles on the mound: Bruce Chen got knocked around, allowing six hits and six runs in four innings. St. Louis worked him over for four runs in the third inning. Chen walked three batters and allowed two runs on sacrifice flies. Jim Brower, Tim Byrdak and LaTroy Hawkins worked scoreless innings for Baltimore.
Grapefruit League records: Cardinals 9-7-1; Orioles 7-10.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Hawksworth right on schedule for return

03/19/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- Two years ago, Blake Hawksworth was ranked as the Cardinals' best prospect by Baseball America. Since then, he's thrown 25 1/3 innings in eight starts.
Now, the Cards are confident Hawksworth is on his way back to the form that caught their eye in 2002 and 2003. Hawksworth is right on schedule, pitching in Minor League Spring Training games, and he is on track to start the season in the rotation for either Class A Palm Beach or Double-A Springfield.
Hawksworth sat out for more than a year before making a cameo with short-season New Jersey last summer. He was plagued by shoulder troubles, and injuries have been an unfortunately recurring theme in his promising career.
"He's strong," said Cardinals farm director Bruce Manno. "He's going to be on track with the other starters. He feels great. He's OK.
"He came into camp and said he felt great, felt like he was healthy and strong. So far he's done everything. He hasn't missed any time, nothing."
On the move: Outfielder Cody Haerther, who has developed into one of the more promising offensive prospects in the system, is working with Triple-A Memphis early in the spring. Haerther had a huge year in 2005, split between high Class A Palm Beach and Double-A Springfield.
Names in the game: Jim Riggleman managed in the big leagues over eight seasons, but now he serves the Cardinals in a front-office capacity. Riggleman is the Cardinals' Minor League field coordinator and part of Manno's brain trust.
They're No. 1: Outfielder Colby Rasmus, the Cardinals' first pick in the 2005 First-Year Player Draft, is being watched closely this spring, and so far, it's going well. The organization is deciding whether to keep Rasmus in extended Spring Training at the beginning of the year, or send him straight to low Class A Quad Cities.
Class of '05: Outfielder Nick Stavinoha enjoyed the finest debut of any Cardinals 2005 draftee. He'll get the chance to prove it was no fluke, because he's likely to be sent to Springfield. Stavinoha dominated the Midwest League after a successful career at Louisiana State University -- but the Texas League is quite a step up.
Stat machine: Chris Duncan has 10 runs and 11 RBIs in 58 at-bats this spring.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Notes: Cards stacked with relievers

03/19/2006
JUPITER, Fla. -- Sorting out his 2006 bullpen has proved to be more complex than Cardinals manager Tony La Russa might have expected. The thing is, complex is good.
Early forecasts had Jeff Nelson and the loser of the fifth-starter derby filling out the last two spots in the relief corps. However, strong showings by a number of competing pitchers have changed the equation dramatically.
The Cardinals could go with three left-handers in the 'pen. They could move a starter like Anthony Reyes or Adam Wainwright to the bullpen for long relief. They could take a non-roster long man in the form of Josh Hancock, a non-roster short reliever such as Brian Falkenborg, or both.
It's not the worst problem to have.
"You hoped it would be complicated," La Russa said. "We're going to have some decisions to make, which is good."
Five men look set -- though La Russa hesitates to say anyone but Jason Isringhausen and Braden Looper is actually assured of a job. Brad Thompson is an excellent bet to join those two on the right side, and lefties Ricardo Rincon and Randy Flores look set as well.
Beyond that, several hurlers have pitched their way into contention. And while it would be far too strong to say that Nelson has pitched his way out -- he hasn't given up a run, after all -- the veteran has found himself in more of a dogfight than might have been anticipated.
"I think one of the issues is that the competition around him has gotten stiff," La Russa said. "There are several guys who are throwing the ball well. It's not like he's not facing competition."
Falkenborg, 28, and Hancock, 27, have been two of the bigger surprises in camp. Neither has been touched for a run. Falkenborg caught the eyes of La Russa and pitching coach Dave Duncan from the beginning of drills. Hancock was on their radar even before that, since he pitched well against the Cardinals as a member of the Reds last year.
"His stock has been up," La Russa said of Hancock. "He just kept it where it was. He's one of the guys I'm talking about. He's thrown the ball well, so there's not a lot of room to maneuver there for Jeff. He's going to have to be as impressive as he can be."
Rincon's debut: More than a month after camp started, Rincon made his first game appearance in a Cardinals uniform. Rincon pitched a perfect seventh inning on Sunday, retiring the Braves' Pete Orr, Todd Pratt and Michael Ryan in order.
Rincon arrived in camp late due to work visa problems, then promptly headed out to pitch for Mexico in the World Baseball Classic. He returned to camp on Friday, worked out Saturday and pitched on Sunday.
"He went 2-0 twice, but got outs," said La Russa. "It's just good to get back to him."
Rincon, 35, is pleased to be back in the National League after seven seasons in the AL. He began his career with the Pirates.
"I like it here," he said. "I'm comfortable here."
Bigbie update: Larry Bigbie will be held out of the lineup until at least Wednesday as he recuperates from tendinitis in his left Achilles tendon. Bigbie underwent acupuncture treatment on Sunday and reports that he is steadily feeling better.
"Ever so close," he said. "With an off-day [on Tuesday], we'll just look toward Wednesday."
Bigbie hasn't played since Thursday. His 26 at-bats are fewer than any of his competitors for outfield playing time -- So Taguchi (44), John Gall (43), Skip Schumaker (41) and John Rodriguez (34).
Mulder on the back fields: Fans hoping to get an up-close look at Mark Mulder on the mound will have quite an opportunity on Monday. Mulder will pitch for the Cardinals Triple-A club in a Minor League game on one of the back fields at the Roger Dean Stadium complex.
That's to allow Reyes to get an additional start in a big-league game as he competes for the fifth-starter spot. Gary Bennett will catch Mulder in the Minor League contest, while Yadier Molina works with Reyes.
Bits and pieces: Gall cracked a three-run homer on the only pitch he saw Sunday. ... Cardinals pitchers have allowed eight home runs this spring, five fewer than any other team in baseball. ... St. Louis' 38 walks allowed are also the fewest by a wide margin (San Diego, 46).
Quotable: "I couldn't watch them do it." -- Bigbie, on his acupuncture treatment
Weather report: It will be a little bit warmer on Monday. The forecast calls for a high of 83 degrees in Jupiter, with no clouds, no rain and a healthy wind. Wear sunscreen.

Source: http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/

Rolen, Cardinals crush Braves

03/19/2006
Braves at the plate: Andruw Jones doubled and scored a run. Todd Pratt singled and scored, while Tony Pena rapped an RBI double.
Cardinals at the plate: David Eckstein reached base three times, with a single, a walk and a hit-by-pitch, and he scored twice. Scott Rolen drove in three runs on a single and a groundout, and he also walked. Skip Schumaker knocked an RBI double and singled and scored, and Chris Duncan drove in two runs with a double.
Braves on the mound: Tim Hudson wasn't sharp in his five-inni