The Cardinals claimed infielder Felipe Lopez off of waivers from the Washington Nationals late last night. Lopez can play second base, shortstop, and third base. It is also purported that he can play outfield, but I’d prefer he stay within the diamond.
This is kind of a ‘bleh’ move, certainly not one to overwhelm the opposition. Lopez was an All-Star with the Cincinnati Reds in 2005, but has never regained that form. Most blame a lack of effort and desire. Not exactly the type I’d peg as a great candidate for the Cardinals, but supposedly the talent is there.
If the leaders of this team and its manager can wriggle any sort of effort and/or performance out of Lopez, this could be a good thing. Maybe a poor-man’s Ronnie Belliard for the rest of the season (although I doubt it, he doesn’t figure to see enough playing time for that).
Brendan Ryan goes down to Memphis, allegedly to get more at-bats to try and get his bat hot. He’d been struggling for a while now, and the club hopes he can continue to develop down there. Word is that Tony has promised Ryan he’ll be back up when rosters expand.
If nothing else, Lopez figures to be a better backup for Troy Glaus then Ryan or Aaron Miles, the two guys who have spent the most time at third in Glaus’ absence this season. Seems like a low risk, probably low reward move – but time will tell.
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