For the first time all season, the defending World Champs may have finally showed their hand leading up to the dog days ahead. No one truly knows which direction the Cardinals will turn but if you can read between the rumors, a picture paints itself with only a couple shopping days left.
How pretty the image is depends on how you feel about trading from the bounty of prospects GM John Mozeliak and company have compiled.
My first look at the Double-A Cards in person revealed that plenty of teams need drool rags when scouting in Springfield. And to be honest. at least a couple of the Texas League’s best appear ready for a jump in competition. Since there is no room at the inn up the I-44, it makes sense for Mo to take this stance.
One thing that no Birds on the Bat follower wants to see involves potential star Oscar Taveras going anywhere. He should vault even closer to becoming one of the game’s best prospects by finishing up his second consecutive out-of-this-world campaign. As far as untouchables go, put an asterisk by his name and make sure Carlos Martinez gets special consideration as well.
At this time of year, however, the talking heads wouldn’t be happy without at least a little drama. Most of the dominoes have fallen recently, leaving two very interesting and completely different cases to investigate. Adding a starter from Miami sounds intriguing, but the one who grew up rooting for St. Louis won’t be moved. Oh, you mean this one — well, an entire staff of injury risks just doesn’t sound like much fun.
Last night one potential trading partner went in another direction, leaving what could be considered the only ‘good’ option if dealing for a starter is truly being debated. But that is a huge, gigantic IF to look at given the impact on both the 2012 team as well as next year’s roster.
Big Game James keeps the end of July deadline fun for many reasons, namely since he represents exactly what the Cardinals covet. Of course, Tampa won’t give him away or even possibly make said deal with the financial numbers being very reasonable. So hearing any interest out of St. Louis becomes curious but at the same time, it almost makes too much sense.
In a perfect world, both sides find common ground that helps the Wild Card push in either league. Since the Cards and Rays find themselves within three games of playing in October, that is easier said than done. Shields provides answers to a bunch of questions but will he ever find himself wearing the BOB?
Enjoy the rest of your weekend as nothing gets more exciting than meaningful Cubs/Cards games do!
Comments on this entry are closed.