Tackleberry: When looking at the current roster and trying to identify a pitcher to audition at closer, at what point do the Cards look at Joel Piniero? Piniero is easily the most unreliable pitcher eyeing a spot in the rotation, especially in innings 3-6 (pitches 51-75 opponents hit .343 in 2008), but in the 1st inning opponents only hit .256 against him. Utilizing Piniero in this role would allow for the Cards to address his vacated spot in free agency with a more effective starting pitcher (Sheets) on a short-term deal.

Jeff Gordon: It is an interesting idea. Both the Mariners and Red Sox took a good look at him as a reliever, for the reason you mentioned. His grasp on a rotation spot seems tenuous, especially with a big supply of starting pitchers still available on the market. As far the closer's role, though, I don't think he has the "out" pitch he needs to succeed there.

Tackleberry: Is it me or does it seem like Mozeliak (or Dewitt via Mo) is making a lot of personnel decisions somewhat on his own accord w/o consulting the man who will be managing this team? When the manager and pitching coach say that Motte and Perez are not ready to assume the role of closer, how is Mozeliak going to contradict that? I just don't remember a season under Jocketty where he was telling LaRussa how to operate.

Jeff Gordon: It is an interesting dynamic, for sure. Mozeliak, at DeWitt's behest, is placing more value on player development and growing players into big league roles. TLR has had more than his share of rookie-of-the-year players over the years, but he wants kids to really EARN then spots by beating out veterans. TLR puts a lot of stock in spring training competition. And Mozeliak can shape the outcome of this "competition" by diminishing it with player moves (and non-moves). The current bullpen situation is a great example of that.

Matt: Jeff,

Are the Cardinals currently working on anything on the trade or free agent front that you know about, and if you don't specifically know, do you feel they will get something done before the spring? Or are they really just sitting back waiting for spring training??


Thanks

Matt from Mass.

Jeff Gordon: Mozeliak is sitting back, but there are a LOT of pitchers looking for work. If he is willing to buck up decent cash on a two-year deal, he will be able to hire some protection for the rotation. I believe he MUST do that. Now is not the time to get cute. There is a buyer's out there waiting for be exploited.

roger from lake tahoe: When I question the carinals' lack of activity, I keep hearing that no other team in our division has improved and some are sliding back. So what? To win the wild card we must play against the entire league. So to me, that argument holds no water. Free agent pitchers are getting down to slim pickings. Do you see the team making any move? And if so, who have they targeted? -

Jeff Gordon: I agree that the Cards can't sit back just because other NL Central teams are cutting back. There is an opportunity to beef up the pitching staff at a decent price this year. There is no excuse not to do that.

Philly Rams Fan: Hey Gordo. Have you heard anything about Josh McDaniel's interview? If the Rams were impresed or not? I just read Jim's article about Leslie Frasier being a finalist. Is McDaniel's?

Jeff Gordon: Josh never made it to St. Louis. Denver locked him up.