The Online Source for St. Louis Sports
ISSUE #81
Copyright © 1996 St. Louis Sports Online
Reproduction Prohibited Without Permission of Publisher [StLSports@aol.com]
St. Louis Sports Online is an online sports weekly that aims to provide
St. Louisans (and transplanted St. Louisans) with an additional source of
news, information, and humor about St. Louis-area sports events and St.
Louis-area sports teams.
Contributors to #81 include Jim Hunstein, Riverfront Times hockey correspondent
Randy Hu, WIBV's Dan McLaughlin, and LA resident Ron Jacobs.
ISSUE #81 focuses on the surging St. Louis Cardinals, who just returned
from a wildly successful road trip. StLSO welcomes reader contributions
concerning the Cardinals...our readership is up 30%, no doubt due to the
Redbirds recent successes. E-mail your articles to StLSports@aol.com.
Computer problems delayed publications of ISSUE #81. We apologize but feel
certain that you'll enjoy the stories within this issue.
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St. Louis Sports Online JULY.96.3 CONTENTS
1.0 StLSO News and Notes
2.0 StLSO Sports Shorts
2.1 Cardinals News by MARK BAUSCH
2.2 Blues News
2.3 Rams Report
2.4 StLSO Quotes of the Week
2.5 StLSO Headlines of the Week
3.0 StLSO Features
3.1 The McLaughlin Report by DAN McLAUGHLIN
3.2 Walt Jocketty: Mr. Inside by MARK BAUSCH
3.3 Brian Jordan: A Conversation at Wrigley by MARK BAUSCH
3.4 Tony La Russa: Mr. Outside by MARK BAUSCH
3.5 Dave Parker Pays A Visit by MARK BAUSCH
3.6 La Russa's View of Managing the Cardinals by MARK BAUSCH
3.7 Four Perspectives on Albert Belle
3.8 Fire & Ice by RANDY HU
3.9 More Cards Than Yards by RON JACOBS
3.10 Rams Training Camp Report by JIM HUNSTEIN
4.0 StLSO Recaps
4.1 Cardinals Series-by-Series Summaries
5.0 StLSO Numbers
5.1 Cardinals Statistics (through 95 GAMES (July 18))
5.2 MLB Standings (as of 7.18.96)
6.0 StLSO Media Views by MARK BAUSCH
7.0 StLSO Interactivity
8.0 StLSO Editorial: Scenes from Wrigley Field
St. Louis Sports Online JULY.96.3
1.0 StLSO News and Notes
With the Cardinals beginning to look as though they may put a bit of space
between themselves and the rest of the National League Central Division,
it's time to give GM Walt Jocketty a pat on the back. Clearly, Jocketty's
early moves with the Cardinals (signing Danny Jackson and acquiring Ken
Hill and Scott Cooper) didn't turn out as planned. But the Cardinal GM's
more recent decisions--in particular the re-signing of two of his own players
(Brian Jordan and Ray Lankford) along with three free agent acquisitions
(Ron Gant, Gary Gaetti, and Andy Benes)...are beginning to look pretty good
right now.
Add to that the team's two main trade acquisitions--Todd Stottlemyre (from
the A's) and Royce Clayton (from the Giants)...and Jocketty would seem to
be an early candidate for NL Executive of the Year.
An indication of why some view Tony La Russa as a player's manager can be
gleaned from his comments after Thursday night's Busch Stadium debacle against
the Cubs, and from his actions the following night.
Long reliever/set-up guy Mark Petkovsek, thrust into the closer's role because
of the fact that Dennis Eckersley had pitched in five of the previous six
games, failed miserably in the ninth inning when he walked two batters after
retiring the first two in order.
Both runs later scored, and the Cardinals lost a game that they probably
should have won.
La Russa's post-game reaction? "Petkovsek's kicking himself all over
the place now. I feel bad for what Mark's going through. He's done it for
us all year in the seventh and eighth innings...and he did get two outs
for us tonight."
And the next night, who was the first reliever that La Russa called on after
lengthy rain delays made it impossible for starting pitcher Alan Benes to
continue?
None other than Mark Petkovsek, who responded with two scoreless innings
of work.
The Blues continue to confound their fans. This time, assistant coach Bob
Berry was kicked upstairs to the new position of "Assistant General
Manager". The trouble is...Berry was serving in that role in the two
years that Mike Keenan has been in charge down at Kiel. With the move, Worcester
Ice Cats head coach (and ex-Blues player) Jimmy Roberts has assumed Berry's
old position as assistant coach.
Blues humorists (what remains of them) wonder whether the Blues will find
it necessary to replace Roberts at Worcester, their top farm club. Does
the club have ANY prospects left to play there?
As this is written, the Rams veterans are checking into the Rams summer
camp site at Macomb, Illinois. Both of the Rams first-round draft choices,
Lawrence Phillips and Eddie Kennison, remain unsigned. Once Phillips agrees
to a contract, it is expected that Kennison's deal will fall into place.
Less certain is the status of back-up QB Mark Rypien. The latest offer from
the Rams to Rypien so underwhelmed the veteran QB that he is now seriously
contemplating retirement.
2.0 StLSO Sports Shorts
2.1 Cardinals News
*The great Cards teams of the '80s featured always dependable...and sometimes
spectacular...infield defense. Whitey Herzog always used to point out just
how important Ozzie Smith and Terry Pendleton were to the success of pitchers
such as John Tudor.
As of mid-July, this year's version of the Cardinals is beginning to look
a bit like the Whiteyball-era, at least as far as infield defense is concerned.
Against the Cubs and the Reds, a finally-healthy Gary Gaetti made several
sparkling plays at the hot corner.
Gaetti's excellence was matched by the double-play duo of Royce Clayton
and Mike Gallego. Both Clayton and Gallego have made all the plays...and
balls hit up-the-middle now seem to be routine plays.
1B John Mabry continues to improve defensively, and seems to be growing
into the position quite nicely. He made a couple of nice plays vs. the Cubs,
and deftly fielded a bad-hop grounder in the eighth inning of Wednesday's
game vs. the Reds.
Finally, the Wizard has made his presence felt as well. In the sixth inning
of Wednesday's game vs. the Reds, Eric Davis hit a lazy fly ball to shallow
center field. Willie McGee seemed to get a late jump (actually, no jump)
on the ball, and observers noted that McGee had no play on the ball.
Not to worry, though. Ozzie scampered out and made one of his patented over-the-shoulder
catches, and all seemed right in the world again.
*"I expect that Elieser Marrero will be our catcher in 1998,"
said Cards GM Walt Jocketty. Marrero is a 23 year old Cuban-born catcher
who is in his fourth year in the Cardinals' system. Excellent defensively,
this season at AA Arkansas (Texas League), Marrero is batting .254 in 81
games, with eleven doubles, one triple and eleven homers to go along with
46 RBIs.
*Dmitri Young was recently placed on the 7-day disabled list after suffering
what was termed an "inflamed right wrist". The injury occurred
in batting practice, prior to a recent Louisville Redbirds game.
Young is widely acknowledged to be the Cardinals best minor league hitting
prospect.
*Eric Ludwick, RHP obtained from the Mets in the Bernard Gilkey trade, is
1-0 with Louisville and has a 1.13 ERA after 16 innings pitched, to go along
with 18 strikeouts and only three walks.
*This weekend's Cub series at Busch is expected to draw large crowds. 38,983
tickets were sold for Thursday night's game, and as of Wednesday (7.17.96),
38K, 45K, and 36K tickets were already sold for the Friday, Saturday, and
Sunday games. The usual walk-up associated with the Cubbies makes crowds
approaching 50K likely for the weekend games.
StLSO readers take note: there are usually bleacher tickets available right
up until game time.
*When asked how having two catchers affects his maneuverability, Cards manager
Tony La Russa was direct...and his answer may suggest that the Cards' braintrust
is as surprised as anyone at Tom Pagnozzi's All Star-caliber half-season.
"When it really matters is when you have to pinch-hit for your catcher.
Pags is hitting .300, and Sheaffer is getting the job done. Pagnozzi is
good hitter."
"But we'll have to come up with somebody," La Russa said, in response
to a question about the identity of his club's emergency catcher. "I
trust Gallego with the glove in his hand...possibly Mejia. We've talked
about getting him some work back there."
*At the same time Brian Jordan was lighting up the Cubs in Chicago, the
other Jordan signed a one-year contract worth a reported $25-30 million.
When it was pointed out to Cards manager Tony La Russa that his club had
the second hottest Jordan in Chicago, La Russa disagreed:"I'd say [Brian's]
the first hottest."
*One thing that cannot be overemphasized: the degree to which Cards manager
Tony La Russa takes 'em one at a time. Early in the season, when asked about
general goals for his club, La Russa talked about getting to .500...and
then ten games over .500. These were generalities, though.
After a road trip that concluded with six straight victories and a record
of 52-42, it was pointed out to La Russa that his club had reached the ten-over-.500
mark. "No," La Russa responded when asked if the next goal was
15 games over .500. "I'd say eleven."
2.2 Blues News
*With Vancouver announcing their withdrawal from the Wayne Gretzky sweepstakes,
#99's choices appear to have dwindled to two teams: New York and St. Louis.
Smart money is on the Rangers, with Rangers GM Neil Smith sticking it to
his ol' buddy Mike Keenan.
*Former Blues centerman Kevin Miller has signed a contract with the Chicago
Blackhawks. Miller, a favorite of the StLSO hockey staff, last played for
Pittsburgh.
2.3 Rams Report
*Rams backup linebacker Thomas Homco did not suit up for Thursday's practice
because of knee soreness. Homco, who had off-season surgery, is an important
contributor to the Rams special teams kick coverage units.
*The Rams and the agent for Lawrence Phillips (Mitch Frankel) continue to
haggle over guaranteed dollars. The Rams don't want Phillips to get any
up-front money that isn't tied to what amount to good-behavior clauses for
young Mr. Phillips.
*Eddie Kennison, the LSU wide receiver who was the Rams other first-round
pick in the recent NFL draft, has apparently reached some sort of agreement
on the dollar amount of his contract with St. Louis, and now is bargaining
over the length of the deal. The Rams want a five-year deal while Kennison
and his agent, John Hamilton, are angling for four.
*The competition at tight end is beginning to heat up. Last year's starter,
Troy Drayton, returns, along with former baseball player Ed Smith and Texas
A&M rookie Hayward Clay. The wild card? One of last year's rookie disappointments,
Lovell Pinkney, aims to settle in at tight end as well. Last year, Pinkney
"did not make progress," coach Rich Brooks said.
2.4 StLSO Quotes of the Week
*"I sure like doing it more this year than last year. Last year they
asked me a lot of questions I couldn't answer," Cards GM Walt Jocketty
said about his KMOX Sunday morning radio show.
*"When I saw that article I felt like vomiting," Cards manager
Tony La Russa said about a Post-Dispatch 7.18.96 column (written by Bill
Coats) that, in the context of the Cards-Cubs rivalry, humorously denigrated
the abilities of the 1996 edition of the Chicago Cubs and wondered why Cubs
fans should even bother rooting for their team.
*"Hey Jordan, where's Muscle Beach?", shouted an unidentified
Chicago Cub to Brian Jordan, who was strutting around the Wrigley Field
infield in his sleeveless red Cardinals warm-up jacket prior to Friday's
Cards-Cubs game.
2.5 StLSO Headlines of the Week
*From the 7.18.96 P-D: "Benes, Cards Hit New Heights"; with the
sub-head "6-4 Win Over Cincinnati Is Sixth In Row"
*From the 7.17.96 P-D: "Lankford Has Reds Feeling Run Down"; with
the sub-head "Great Catch Puts Cards On Track To 5th Win In A Row"
3.0 StLSO Features
3.1 The McLaughlin Report by DAN McLAUGHLIN
For Cardinal fans, this is when the fun begins. After an extremely successful
road trip, in which the club was nine and two, the Birds are home for eleven
games (4-Chicago, 3-Atlanta, and 4-Montreal). The Redbirds are playing baseball
the way it oughta be--winning!
At the time of this article, the Cardinals are 23-17 at home, and have won
ten of their last twelve at Busch. Why are they winning?
Simple. Timely hitting, great starting pitching, and a healthy lineup. All
the cliches that make for winning baseball...and those cliches are valid.
"It's fun winning games," said Gary Gaetti. "You can't look
at the standings too much, you could be real successful playing good baseball
and not be in first place. You can't put a lot of emphasis on first...especially
at this point in the season, but, let's face it, we're having fun winning
baseball games."
Early in the season it wasn't much fun. The Cards were a season-low nine
games under .500 (17 and 26) on May 19. "We struggled a little bit
early on but, now, we're becoming a family," said Ron Gant. "That's
a lot for what has to do with our success right now. Also, with me being
on winning ballclubs before I know that each night it's going to take a
different guy. It could be pitching one night, then the next we rotate to
hitting...it's a good habit to get into."
Offensively, the Birds are paced by the torrid hitting of outfielder Brian
Jordan. The man has been simply awesome. He's in the top 10 in the league
batting average-wise, leads the team in RBIs, and has been the NL Player
of the Week two out of the last three weeks. Is Jordan in the "zone"?
"When I was in Chicago I felt like Michael Jordan hitting those three-pointers--I
was in the zone," Jordan said. "I can't explain it. I'm working
hard in the batting cage every day with George Hendrick and he's correcting
every mistake I made every at bat. I'm having success right now and I don't
want to jinx myself, I just want to carry on through the rest of the season."
Jordan had high expectations after ditching pro football to solely concentrate
on baseball. The best, many feel, is yet to come. "I feel like I'm
two years away from my potential," he said. "I'm still learning
every day. I'm out there and I'm just happy Willie McGee and Ozzie are around--talking
with them only gets me better."
The Redbirds have won 11 of their last 14 overall, 14 of their last 18,
23 of their last 33, and 35 of their last 52--that's nearly .700 baseball.
"We're excited," said Tony La Russa. "We've been playing
well and it's exciting, but, you become happy in October. I felt during
our roughest times that the healthiest thing going for us was that we were
all taking our turns so nobody was pointing fingers. We were all struggling
together and no one was drifting apart."
'
If there is a problem on this team, it may be at second base. Luis Alicea
has lost confidence and his starting job. Mike Gallego, who is finally healthy,
will play most of the time at 2B. He joins the team after a long sting on
the DL and he couldn't get well at a better time.
"I was waiting for the team to get hot so I could slide in the back
door and take all the credit," Gallego said with a big grin and a laugh.
"Seriously, it's been frustrating, especially when the team wasn't
doing well because I take pride in my job and I feel I can contribute to
winning games--that's what we all get paid for."
The Cardinals will be earning their pay much of the way during the second
half of the season at the friendly confines of Busch Stadium. There are
67 games left in the season; 41 of those will be played under the Arch.
The Redbirds have homestands of 11, 13, and 12 games remaining on their
schedule--this is why they will win the NL Central. And this is why we'll
be talking baseball in October for the first time in a long time.
After withstanding the odd scheduling and the injury bug, the Redbirds look
like the likely choice to take the NLC. GM Walt Jocketty's moves have paid
off and will continue to do so down the stretch. Also, don't be surprised
if the Cards make a few moves in the next few weeks, in an effort to put
the final pieces in the post-season puzzle. Jocketty is a GM who can make
the right decision in evaluating what needs to be done to improve his club.
Go ahead and jump on the bandwagon. It's going to be a fun ride.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Young Dan McLaughlin is all of 22 years old. After growing
up in South St. Louis, he was graduated from Vianney HS before moving on
to Lindenwood College, where he received his BA degree in Mass Communications.
A long-time sports nut, McLaughlin played baseball for three years at Vianney.
Earlier this year, McLaughlin was hired by WIBV-AM 1260, where he serves
as their primary field sports reporter. In addition, he hosts, along with
StLSO godfather Jeff Gordon, 'IBV's 6-8 pm weeknight sports call-in shows.
Finally, on Saturday McLaughlin does two shows, one at noon, the other at
5 pm.
Before his WIBV gig, McLaughlin toiled for two years at KMOX. McLaughlin
tells StLSO that he has two goals: "I want to do play-by-play, and
I want to get online."
3.2 Walt Jocketty: Mr. Inside by MARK BAUSCH
Long-time StLSO readers remember that Cards GM Walt Jocketty has served
as a source for several articles, three of which were entitled "Waiting
For Walt".
No, that's not quite right. Jocketty's ACTIONS as GM have been discussed
on these pages...but StLSO staffers have never been fortunate enough to
sit down with the Cardinals GM for some on-the-record comments.
Especially since Jocketty, while remaining ever polite, generally leaves
the impression that he has better things to do than talk to reporters.
Could it be that Jocketty feels that he has nothing to gain by discussing
his work as the Cardinals GM?
Does he feel that Tony La Russa or Mark Lamping is better suited to speak
in public about the Cardinals and issues facing the Cardinals?
Does he feel that Al Hrabosky, who hosts an afternoon call-in show on KFNS,
serves as a conduit for the inside information that Cardinals fans crave?
Who knows. But Walt Jocketty appears more than willing to let other Cardinals
personnel meet with media. It's almost like he has fashioned a role as the
Cardinals' "Mr. Inside" (a nice complement to La Russa's "Mr.
Outside").
And the role of "Mr. Inside" appears to suit Jocketty just fine.
So like everyone else, we tune in to Jocketty's generally informative Sunday
morning appearances on KMOX-AM.
But the Cardinals recent road trip to Chicago, and the fact that the All-Star
break had just come and gone, seemed to present the perfect opportunity
to sit down with Jocketty and get some of his thoughts about the Cardinals.
And while strolling through the dark tunnels under the stands of Wrigley
Field, the chance to speak with Jocketty presented itself.
Jocketty, who was clearly pleased by the club's recent strong play, had
several things on his mind, including his views of (a) the Redbirds at the
All-Star break; (b) trade rumors and their effects on ballplayers; and (c)
the Cardinals manager, Tony La Russa, and his opinions concerning the roles
of a GM and a manager.
...ON THE CARDS AT THE BREAK
With the recent passing of the All-Star break, Jocketty began by talking
about his view of the first half that had just passed, and of the second
half to come.
"What we need to do in the second half is to get more consistency,
both offensively and defensively at second base," Jocketty said. "I
think, our bullpen, has been OK but it could be better."
"But I also think that we need to get continued production out of our
outfielders. Those are key guys."
In March of this year, Jocketty had told this reporter that he was expecting
big years from Gant, Lankford, and Jordan, in light of the fact that all
three had been signed to long-term contracts. When reminded of his spring
statement about his outfielders, Jocketty smiled.
"That's right," he said. "They should be able to focus on
becoming better hitters, better outfielders, better players, and being the
leaders that they need to be on this club. Those are the key guys."
The conversation then moved to the Cardinals starting pitching.
"That's another key element," Jocketty said. "The starting
pitching has made the biggest difference in the last five weeks. Our starting
pitching has been able to get us deep in the game...which has allowed us...to
overcome the inconsistencies in our bullpen."
...ON TRADE RUMORS
Just then, outfielder Brian Jordan strolled by with a bat in hand. Whether
it was a magazine or newspaper, a radio talk show, or the Internet, even
in Chicago it was hard not to be saturated with rumors about a Brian Jordan-Chuck
Knoblauch trade.
"It upsets me," Jocketty stated, when asked what he thought when
he sees trade rumors of any kind.
"That bothers me...because...a prime example just happened recently.
The trade rumors about Brian Jordan. There were rumors...and C.J. [Cherre,
the Cards traveling secretary] called me from Pittsburgh and said the Pittsburgh
announcers were talking about us trading Brian Jordan...on the air...and
it was being broadcast into our clubhouse during the game!" So I said
'Where in the heck did they get that'....I have no idea. It keeps snowballing...I
get calls from [Channel 2's] Randi Naughton the other day...I said there
was nothing to it. I do a show with [KFSN-AM 590's] Frank Cusumano this
morning...he said 'What about the trade rumors Jordan for Knoblauch?'....and
I said "Where in the heck did they get this?"
"I'll tell you what that does. I noticed yesterday that something was
bothering Brian [Jordan]. So I went up to him and asked how he was doing...his
response was along the lines of 'Ohhh...OK'..."
"So I said 'Brian, I don't know what's bothering you...but the rumors...it's
all BS...I don't know where it comes from, or how it starts'."
Jocketty continued: "A lot of stuff that comes out of the media, is,
I think, fabricated or manufactured somehow...and I don't know why...maybe
it's a slow news day or something. But what it does, is...it upsets the
player."
Then Jocketty went even further: "[Jordan] said [the rumors] ruined
his All-Star break..."
When asked whether that was for attribution, Jocketty stopped short, saying
"You better ask Brian".
"But to give you an idea as to how it affect a player, he goes home
to Atlanta, and his mother says, 'Hey, I hear you're going to be traded
to Minnesota.' And that was the first he'd heard of it. It's an unwanted
distraction."
...ON TONY LA RUSSA
"Actually, I don't really like Tony La Russa," a grinning Jocketty
answered when asked what he liked about the Cardinals manager.
After letting his questioner squirm a bit, a still grinning Jocketty continued...but
only after he was asked what he liked about Tony La Russa as a manager.
"No...actually, I think what he brings...his intensity, his leadership,
his preparation...he leaves very few stones unturned. His ability to recognize
weaknesses and strengths in opposition...as well as his own...ballplayers...is
most highly impressive."
"If he's not the best, he's one of the best in the game today...if
not the best ever."
The conversation then moved to a discussion of what a general manager does
and how a GM's role and perspective differs from that of a manager.
"[La Russa is] a guy that, as manager of a ballclub, is here on a day-to-day
basis. He basically lives with these players, and sees them differently
than I see them. I have to keep a different perspective. Tony and I work
very well together and it's because we understand each other and respect
each other's opinions. We've certainly had some disagreements...some recently.
We both regard our thoughts and opinions highly...and we respect that. You
need to have that [difference in perspectives]...if you're both too distant
or too close to it...you can't have that different perspective."
...AND A CLOSING WORD
"[Keep your eye on] Elieser Marrero, a catcher with Arkansas. I just
saw him play two games. I really like him. In 1998 he should be our catcher."
3.3 Brian Jordan: A Conversation at Wrigley by
MARK BAUSCH
There's something about Brian Jordan the athlete that's special. It's pretty
easy to figure out, actually. The guy has big league talent in both baseball
and football, but in spring training this year Jordan actually claimed that
his favorite sport in high school was basketball.
But no boxing, Jordan said.
"You could get brain damage," he said earnestly.
Home or away, it's hard not to be drawn to Jordan, who, in addition to being
a world-class athlete (with a physique that most adult men can only dream
of), is a bit of a brain.
Jordan attended Richmond University for four years, where he studied sociology.
And recently, Jordan stated that he has been writing poetry for the past
several months.
So Brian Jordan the man is special, too. His attitude and personality permeates
the Cards locker room. The guy is the total package...and has the charisma
to match. He seems to possess what it takes to lead the Cardinals, on and
off the field.
So this reporter found it a bit surprising when Cards GM Walt Jocketty stated
that Jordan's All-Star break was ruined by the recent trade rumors swirling
around the Cardinals and the Twins. According to Jocketty, Jordan was clearly
upset by the trade talk.
A big strong guy...making millions of dollars a year playing the game of
baseball...bothered by trade rumors?
"Yeah, it bothered me a lot," Jordan said when informed of Jocketty's
comments about the rumor. "I found out about it before we left Pittsburgh.
It's kind of strange when you find out about something like that from your
Mom. She read it in Baseball Weekly and told me about it."
"It did ruin my All-Star break...and I feel a bit like it was a reason
that I slumped in Pittsburgh."
Jordan continued: "It kinda hurts, because I take pride in my work.
I've given the Cardinals a three-year commitment...I bought a condo...and
the fans in St. Louis are great. I was disappointed to here about the rumors...and
I felt betrayed."
"So I talked to Walt, and he reassured me that the rumors were nonsense.
I feel obligated...with a 3-year deal...and I want to give 110% each year....on
the field...and to the St. Louis community."
In other words, Brian Jordan the man is a bit sensitive...a 90's kind of
guy...and very much wants to be a part of the Cardinals for a long time.
And when informed of Jocketty's opinion that he (along with Ron Gant and
Ray Lankford) was expected to have a big year because of the security that
long term contracts afford, Jordan smiled and laughed out loud.
"Really...then tell Walt to sign me to even a longer term deal...for
even more money!"
-----
On another subject, Jordan was asked about his ivy-removing attempt to retrieve
a fly ball to deep right field at Wrigley.
"The wall came up on me pretty quick. I was mad I didn't catch the
ball. But I wasn't going to come out of the game. I mean, the fans here
are pretty tough in the bleachers. They say things to you...as a man...as
a human being...about your family. It's kind of personal. But I'm not gonna
let them get to me. To do anything well feels good here, because of the
fans."
Jordan then added the following statement, a statement indicative of his
knowledge of baseball and its fans: "Of course, if I played for Chicago
[the fans here] would be great."
When asked whether he knew that there was no padding underneath the ivy
that covers the brick outfield walls at Wrigley, a grimacing Jordan, wrapped
in bandages, tried to answer, but was interrupted by a laughing Ozzie Smith.
"He does now," said the Wizard.
3.4 Tony La Russa: Mr. Outside by MARK BAUSCH
The Cardinals' recent road trip to Chicago and Cincinnati afforded the StLSO
staff a marvelous opportunity to observe manager Tony La Russa and his club
on the road.
What a trip it was...as the Cardinals went 9-2 on the trip, winning the
last six in a row.
There are three points to be made.
Over and over again, in Cincinnati and Chicago, La Russa continued to drive
home one simple point: that baseball games are played one game at a time.
La Russa's players are beginning to accept that mantra as well. It seems
like good times are on the way as the season approaches the 100 game mark.
Secondly, La Russa's nearly two decades of experience at major league media
relations put him in good stead wherever he goes, as far as his interactions
with the press is concerned.. It's unlikely that he'll be asked something
that he hasn't heard before...he sidesteps questions that he prefers not
to answer (sometimes rather bluntly) and spends more time on points that
he hopes the media will emphasize (such as his overall satisfaction with
the Cardinals shortstop duo of Royce Clayton and Ozzie Smith).
Finally, Tony La Russa really likes his 1996 Cardinals...and on the road
trip he took great pains to emphasize that fact to anyone within earshot.
In other words, Tony La Russa is Mr. Outside, as far as the Cardinals management
team is concerned.
And Mr. Outside is pleased with his club. Not willing to rest on any laurels...simply
pleased with what he's seen.
The Redbird outfielders are playing well, and La Russa seems to take turns
complimenting their play. Or maybe it's just that Gant, Lankford, and Jordan
are taking turns hitting homers, throwing out runners, and making circus
catches.
"I'm not sure I'd trade our outfield for any other outfield in major
league baseball," La Russa stated. "And that includes the one
in Cleveland."
La Russa also likes the Cards infield defense, especially now that Mike
Gallego has returned from the injury list and provided steady play at second
base.
"[Gallego] plays second base the way Ozzie Smith plays shortstop,"
La Russa said in Cincinnati.
La Russa continues to marvel at John Mabry's offensive exploits, and often
speaks highly of the offensive production of the left side of the infield
(the trio of Gary Gaetti, Royce Clayton, and Ozzie Smith) as well.
That Tom Pagnozzi continues to see most of the action behind the plate speaks
volumes for his performance, and La Russa's view of that performance.
The starting pitching? It would be hard for a manager to say nicer things
about his starters...and those pitchers have backed up La Russa's words.
It's only a feeling, but the team's bullpen appears to be La Russa's greatest
concern. Even here, though, the general sense of La Russa's proclamations
are positive.
"Even when we were going bad," La Russa said, "I felt good
about this club...because after they had a bad game, they would shake it
off the next day and come back competing real hard. That's important."
Somehow, La Russa's team knows that, too.
Read on for additional views of Tony La Russa and his baseball team, direct
from Chicago and Cincinnati.
3.5 Dave Parker Pays A Visit by MARK BAUSCH
It could have been the winning streak.
Or maybe it was the way that the team was winning: timely hitting, good
defense, and good starting pitching. Whatever, three hours prior to the
start of the Reds-Cardinals game on Monday, Cardinals players and coaches
were strutting around with a spring in their step.
The team's comfort level was turned up a notch when Cincinnati native Dave
Parker showed up to visit some of his old West Coast buddies from the late
'80s Oakland A's team.
The degree to which manager Tony La Russa has imported the Oakland culture,
a championship culture, to St. Louis...was emphasized by the large number
heartfelt greetings that awaited Parker.
Tommie Reynolds, Dennis Eckersley, Ron Hassey, Rick Honeycutt, Dave McKay,
and Dave Duncan...all said hello with big smiles.
Parker hugged many of his old teammates, and a bit later Tony La Russa came
out of the tunnel that connects the visitors' clubhouse and the dugout.
La Russa's eyes immediately lit up...in a way that St. Louis' fans (or media)
have yet to see...and, short of a World Series championship, may never see.
With the old Oakland gang all around, Parker held court...and it was one
raucous session. La Russa kind of hung around the edge of the group, smiling
and laughing with the rest of the bunch, all the while his antennae up.
After a while, things slowed down a bit, and Parker raised his voice a bit.
"Where's little Ozzie Smith?" he asked. Everyone laughed.
A few minutes later, Smith arrived, and The Wizard and Parker, under the
watchful eye of La Russa, began an animated conversation.
It was still a long time before the game. The Cardinals' manager, ever-intense
hours before a game, probably would deny it...but it seemed that he had
lowered his guard a bit.
One thing was very clear: Tony La Russa has one heckuva lot of respect for
Dave Parker.
The next day, the subject of Parker's visit to the Cardinals' dugout seemed
like a good place to start a short interview.
"Those were two of the best years I ever had in baseball," La
Russa said when asked about Parker's years with the A's.
"I'll tell you," La Russa continued. "Dave Parker and Tom
Seaver are two of the smartest men I've ever seen in baseball. And Parker,
I believe that he got the A's over the hump in '88 and '89."
La Russa then addressed what it was that made Parker so special.
"His lefthanded bat, between Canseco and McGwire...that was really
something...what a line-up. And off the field, let me tell you. Dave Parker
was one of the best...a very sharp guy. He was so good with young players,
and if a guy backed off a little bit, there was Parker."
"I'll tell you, there's a spot for Dave Parker in baseball, if he so
desires."
3.6 La Russa's View of Managing the Cardinals
by MARK BAUSCH
When asked about his role as a manager and his working relationship with
Cards GM Walt Jocketty, La Russa seemed intent upon shining the spotlight
on his players, and away from himself and his role.
"Our team is about our players," La Russa began. "Our job,
as managers and coaches, is to try and give them what they need to be successful."
When apprised of Jocketty's description of his role and perspective of a
GM, compared to La Russa's role as manager, La Russa offered an opinion.
"A lot depends on the philosophy of the front office and the ownership.
Here we have real coordination between everyone, and that includes the coaches
and I. But we focus on the on-the-field matters, while Walt has to worry
about budgets, player development, and attendance."
"We have a lot of communication. Mr. DeWitt, Mr. Hanser, and Mr. Baur...things
are working well and there are a lot of plusses in St. Louis...and yes,
these kinds of things were important to me when I was looking [for work]."
And some final thoughts from the Cardinals' manager:
*"You know, I've never managed in a one-team town. I've always been
in a two team town, where the other club was considered to be the bigger
draw. I'm enjoying managing in St. Louis, and I'm beginning to experience
what everyone tells me about St. Louis."
*More specifically about the game of baseball, it was suggested to La Russa
that his role as manager was that of leveler...never letting his team or
the individuals on it get too high after a win, or too low after a loss.
His response? "I never thought of it that way. I know this much. Before
a game, I try to get to some of the veterans, you know...Gant, Pagnozzi,
McGee, and get them to get the team up for the game. And after the game,
if you win, you enjoy it for a while but then you turn the page. And if
the other team wins, you walk off the field and tip your cap to them. But
my favorite part of managing is first pitch to last pitch."
*When asked if there was a laundry list of things that a manager has to
concern himself with, La Russa repeated his earlier statement: "Certainly
an important component is first pitch to last pitch, and the decisions you
make during the game. But managing also involves representing the organization,
as well as evaluation of [the team's] needs."
"But it's worth repeating that we're here for the players...and their
attention before and after the game. I feel for today's players. There's
so much money and distractions now...much more than when I began managing
in Chicago."
*Earlier that week, reserve infielder David Bell had been sent down to Louisville,
in order to make room for Mike Gallego on the roster. La Russa's comment?
"Yes, I talked to David. And I assume that Walt did, too. One thing
that's never easy, though, is talking to a player at that time. The key,
I think, is to be honest and compassionate. The hardest is talking to a
veteran. That's tough."
3.7 Four Perspectives on Albert Belle
*Jack Buck: "You know, the media coverage today is a lot more intense
than it was years ago."
*Red Schoendienst: "He's brought on a lot of that himself. Some people
never figure out that it doesn't take any longer to be nice to someone...than
it does to tick'em off."
*Dave Winfield: "He is a bright guy. Albert needs to learn that you
can't beat the system. And you know, to be nice to people so that when you're
done [playing] there's a place for you in the game. Right now, he's putting
100% of his energy into his play on the field. But what he may find out
is that his attitude may end up hurting his play on the field."
*Dave Parker: "I would be a good guy to ask about that. Albert isn't
listening to anybody right now. And he's not taking any advice. That's not
good."
3.8 Fire & Ice by RANDY HU
As torrid as the Cardinals have been lately, the Blues' public approval
rating is falling faster than the stock market.
What has been the worst case scenario for the Blues this offseason? Take
your pick. Mike Keenan is still in charge. The Great One flees. Brett Hull
trade rumors. Signing two defensemen (Trent Yawney and Marc Bergevin) who
scored a single goal between them last year. Acquiring this year's Geoff
Courtnall clone in Joe Murphy, who stands to collect NBA-type paychecks.
Gouging fans (again) by raising ticket prices by the nameless, faceless
Kiel Partners. I've seen less chaos in Riddick Bowe's corner. It's little
wonder why the lynch mob wants to open up a 12-pack of whup-ass in the organization's
face.
It would be easy for me to say I told you so about the Wayne Gretzky fiasco.
Ah, what the heck, I told you so. On paper (and ice), asking a 35-year old
fading center to lead a pack of Jurassic pucksters to the promised land
was more of a fairytale than Prince Chuck and Lady Di. The latest rumor
du'jour has "Suitcase" Gretzky trying his luck in Vancouver. Clothier
Gus Torregrossa, of Gus's Fashions in downtown St. Louis, is on the hook
for over $10,000 worth of unclaimed Gretzky jerseys. Obviously, some fans
have short memories, including a few media members. Those riding the bandwagon
have shamelessly jumped off and are ripping the club unmercifully. Flip-flopping
at its finest.
The loyally blind get-a-lifers will say that their beloved Blues were a
Shayne Corson goal away from the Stanley Cup semifinals, but that woulda,
coulda scenario was to be puck fiction. In reality, the talent gap between
the Blues and the Detroit Red Wings is as wide as a Stephane Matteau wrist
shot.
It's obvious to everyone, except Keenan, that a younger presence needs to
be infused into the lineup. Keenan has stockpiled just about artifact in
the NHL except for Ogie Oglethorpe, while showing little tolerance for rookie
mistakes. The acquisitions of Yawney and Bergevin could mean adios to Al
MacInnis and his $3.5 million dollar slapper. With their lack of goal scoring,
the Blues could change their nickname to the Yawn-eys. Or how about Blues
Travelers with all of the players spinning through Keenan's revolving door?
It's amazing how Keenan continues to get fleeced by other GM's without at
the very least, accumulating draft picks.
Who knows what this team will look like come opening day. The more things
change, the more they stay the same--only more expensive. Think about this
financial quagmire. For the cost of two premium seats for the Blues three
home preseason games, you could buy two season tickets in the cheap seats
for the Rams or a nosebleed season ticket for the Cardinals.
There will be Olympic-size pressure on Keenan to ice a competitive regular
season team and advance past the second round of the playoffs this year.
Hold on to your hubcaps because Keenan's due for an overhaul.
For Blues fans, it's Independence Day.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Randy Hu is the hockey columnist for The Riverfront Times.
3.9 More Cards Than Yards by RON JACOBS
LOS ANGELES--The Rams' last Southern California home game was a lethargic
and sloppy affair. They lost to the mediocre Redskins. As I drove away from
"The Big A" on Christmas Eve 1994, I made a vow: I pledged to
never visit Anaheim again.
My hobby is collecting sports cards. Only football. And only Rams cards.
I have cards of Ram players before, during and after their seasons with
the team. There are Bowman cards from 1948 intermittently through today.
Topps, Fleer and the companies that blossomed in the late 1980's. There
are NFL, NFC, AFL, CFL, NCAA and USFL cards of onetime "Bighorns."
I own Ram cards with Spanish and French text, "bootleg" cards
neither authorized by players, teams nor leagues. Cards from companies that
only lasted a year or two.
I have Ram cards in the collector categories known as: Common, Insert, Oddball
and Autographed. They include cards that feature a former NFL commissioner,
a team owner (no, not Georgia), administrators, some head coaches, more
assistant coaches, players turned announcers, but most of the cards are
of players. From Agajanian through Zendejas, I have collected over 3,500
cards, all different.
So, how could I miss last month's big event? I broke my promise and headed
for Orange County. It was time for the long-awaited June 25-30, 1996 ANAHEIM
17TH ANNUAL SPORTS COLLECTORS CONVENTION (sub-titled "A Magical Experience."
) The "National," as it is called, began on Tuesday, a dealer's-only
setup day. I went on Thursday and Friday. The former, a "Preview Day,"
cost $17, other days were $7. Parking cost $6.
For those two days, I was the ONLY person I saw wearing a St. Louis Ram
shirt. Or Ram anything. (However, a new friend I made from New Jersey, displayed
a blue and yellow Ram helmet tattoo on his right leg, above the ankle.)
Observation: Most-worn team logo was a toss-up between the L. A. Dodgers
and Chicago Bulls. Leading the rest of the pack were the Dallas Cowboys
and Orlando Magic. Attendees were at least 90% male and "kids"
were few and far between. I spotted lots of fathers and sons (a few daughters),
which was neat.
At one time the Anaheim Center was the largest in the country. Last month's
National consumed 600,000 square feet. An additional 125,000 square feet
was occupied by interactive events sponsored by the four major professional
leagues. To me, the most awesome 100 square feet were occupied by an exhibit
celebrating the 60th anniversary of the baseball Hall of Fame. On display
were the jerseys of the first five inductees: Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner, Babe
Ruth, Christy Mathewson and Walter Johnson. These artifacts somehow made
these legendary names more real. Ironically, most fans were so overwhelmed
by the tsunami of high-tech, eye-grabbing current product that they missed
the inconspicuous cluster of showcases that contained the most significant
and valuable memorabilia in the building.
No, the National was not your weekend card show at a Holiday Inn ballroom.
The promoters hoped for a 4-day attendance of 100,000, but a few days ago
a local card dealer told me that "only" 20,000 showed up. He blamed
it on the economy: "People aren't spending." The promoters advertised
1000 booths and 665 dealers. There wasn't an empty spot in the place. Over
two days, I probably checked out no more than 60% of the stuff at the show.
To my Ram collection I added everything from an autographed Bob Waterfield
card to the first rookie cards of Lawrence Phillips and Tony Banks, plus
the first Jerome Bettis card that lists him as a Pittsburgh Steeler (l996
Pro Line #55.) I didn't find any Sean Gilbert cards as a Redskin, but here
are some things I did spot in 16 hours of digging and dealing:
· Booth where one could have his/her picture taken and made into an
official Donruss "MVP" card with a Special National Convention
logo on the front. Superimposed over the bottom of my picture, with stats
and comments on back. The "Jacobs Donruss 1996" card shows me
in a despicable 49er jersey #16 from some quarterback, Joe something. (They
"forgot" to bring any Rams uniform to Anaheim.) I am holding ball
"like a girl." The back reverse side reads: "Whodaguy RJ,
Honolulu, Hawaii. QB rating of 109.1 (23 TD's, 7 INT's.) Emerged from obscurity
to win starting role." It's very cool or very dumb -- I haven't decided
yet.
· Endorsed check from Green Bay Packers to Vincent Lombardi. $500.
· Table operated by Emmitt Smith's family.
· "Game used" equipment of EVERY kind (except for jock straps
and steroid needles.) Merlin Olsen game jersey #74, circa 1965, yours for
just $2500. Plain (not autographed) blue and yellow Ram helmet, circa 80s-90s.
$250.
· Downstairs, personally signing: Ali, Namath, Jimmy Brown, Duke Snyder,
Chamberlain, Rodman, Abdul-Jabbar AND -- the 1940s Women's Professional
Baseball League All-Stars. And more.
· Card-sorting speed contest sponsored by ProLine. My collecting partner,
Ray Randolph, finished second. He won himself a box of 350 cards all with
a cool "Big A" silver logo for the Convention, just 1 of 499 sets
made.
· Issue of Tuff Stuff magazine featuring the debut column of #75 Deacon
Jones.
· At least 60% of the exhibitors had either e-mail addresses, home
pages or both.
· Giant Dennis Rodman face on back of a t-shirt, with day-glo green
hair.
· NFL team pennants, posters, key chains, fridge magnets, license frames,
beer mugs, post cards, playing cards, decals, stickers, unused tickets,
laser imaged and holographic items, porcelain bobbing head dolls, calendars,
matchbooks, players' wives' recipe books, umbrellas, glasses, place mats,
coasters, napkins. trays, lithographs, oil paintings, letters, paychecks,
plastic display holders for almost every piece of sports equipment except
jock strap, every kind of collector's supplies, board games, books of EVERY
KIND, First Day covers, phonograph records of fight songs and alma maters,
newspapers/magazines, team media guides, lunch boxes, tickets to previous
Collector. shows, Kellogg's cereal boxes, 7-11 cards sets, videos, Super
Bowl rings and other championship jewelry, trophies, prize ribbons, historic
audio tapes, gazillion caps/t-shirts, one million Michael Jordan items,
silver commemorative coins, half-million pins, toys, balloons, custom Coke
bottles and -- urinals in men's john with spit out gum -- basic, blue, pink,
green, teal, brown, gray, purple, orange splashing around.
The reason I follow St. Louis Sports Online is because of the Rams; I'm
not the one to report on cards and memorabilia from the city's other past
and present pro teams. But for a local angle, a limit of 200 fans were "allowed"
to pay Wayne Gretzky $200 to sign pucks or sticks. Sorry, no cards because
of a conflicting deal.
In fairness, I heard conflicting stories regarding the astronomical price.
One theory was that the show's promoters enticed Gretzky, who rarely signs
in public, with additional compensation and the autograph proceeds will
go to charity. Others asked, why would The Great One drive all the way to
Anaheim for a paltry $40,000? There was a booth exclusively peddling Stan
"The Man" Musial items.
I hope this report gives you a small glimpse of the sports collectors' Super
Bowl.
3.10 Rams Training Camp Report by JIM HUNSTEIN
The Rams officially opened training camp last weekend at Western Illinois
University in Macomb, Illinois when about 40 players report on Sunday, July
14. Rookies and selected veterans (mostly those who ended the year on injured
reserve or had surgery during the season) took to the field on Sunday, July
15 at 9:00 a.m.
That field is not nearly as accessible as last year's camp at Maryville
University in western St. Louis County. Macomb is about 150 miles north
of St. Louis up Highway 67. However, all practices (9-11 and 3:30-5:40 every
day) at WIU are free and open to the public. The Rams will be in Macomb
through Friday, August 16. The only exceptions will be July 25-27 for scrimmages
with the Bears at their camp in Platteville, Wis. and August 3-5 and August
8-10 for preseason games.
The full 80-man roster will be in camp by July 19. Coach Rich Brooks is
looking forward to camp and the 1996 campaign. At a press conference at
the new Rams Park Training Facility in Earth City (on which more later),
he said the team had improved in many ways over last year's team. He said
that the team is "pretty well set going into training camp with everything
we wanted to go into camp with. We may not have closed the gap on the 49ers,
but we're a better team going into camp than last year's."
Brooks said this team will be tougher than last year's because this camp
will be "more live than thud, more heated than form," he said.
"We'll have a more physical football team this year than last year."
But he still has certain areas of concern, starting with the quarterback
situation. Mark Rypien has said that he will sit out 1996 rather than sign
for less than he thinks he's worth. That would leave the Rams with three
quarterbacks (Steve Walsh, Jamie Martin, and Tony Banks) who did not take
a snap in the pros 1995. "We made what I feel was a fair offer to Mark
Rypien three or four months ago," Brooks said. "That offer was
on the table for a long time. It fit in our cap and our situation."
Brooks doesn't think any team is exactly beating down Rypien's door to sign
him and hopes he will return to the Rams and still thinks he will be in
camp. But the coach has alternative plans. "There are other quarterbacks
out there of veteran status that can be brought in," he explained.
"But you have to look at whether they are better than what you have."
Brooks went on to say that Martin has looked very good in the June minicamps
and that Banks is a "very talented guy, a very bright guy."
Banks and five other rookies remain unsigned as of the press conference,
but Brooks feels the half dozen will be signed by Sunday. The most pressing
problem is signing their top three draft choices; Lawrence Phillips, Eddie
Kennison, and Banks. "It would be very disconcerting if all three are
not in camp," he said. "But I'm confident that that will not happen."
Phillips presents a whole different set of problems with all his legal hassles,
which have had an impact on the salary negotiations. "I can't say I'm
real confident that he will be in there on Sunday," Brooks said. "I
sure would like him to be. Obviously there are some concerns. We are going
to protect ourselves. That's understandable."
But Brooks feels that eventually Phillips will be in camp to continue to
improve his receiving skills. "I'm confident he will be in camp and
it will be a protracted thing," Brooks said. "I though he did
well [in minicamps] with the exception of the passing game. He needs much
more work; routes, protection, things he didn't get at Nebraska. It's the
nuances of the passing game where he needs work."
One area where the team has showed improvement is on defense. While the
team addresses the offense's needs in the draft, they used the free agent
market to fortify the D by signing DE Leslie O'Neal, LB Robert Jones, and
CB Maurice Hurst. "We needed a great outside pass rush," Brooks
said. "O'Neal is just that. He will make [D'Marco] Farr and [Jimmie]
Jones more effective on the inside and should help in the continued development
of [Kevin] Carter. We were fortunate to get [Robert] Jones. He has the same
mental attitude as [Shane] Conlan, but he's younger, faster, and stronger.
His younger legs will carry him farther." Hurst is expected to compete
with Anthony Parker and Todd Lyght for the starting cornerback job.
One other area that has shown dramatic improvement over last year is running
back. Besides Phillips, there's new free agent signee Harold Green, signed
rookie RB/FB Ernie Conwell, unsigned draftees Derrick Harris and Jerald
Moore, and returnees Brent Moss and Greg Robinson. "We are very, very
competitive at the running back position," Brooks said. "We're
not even close to where it was a year ago."
The real depth on the club, besides the running back position, is at tight
end, where three players are the main combatants. "Hopefully this will
be a watershed year for Troy Drayton," said Brooks. "He has a
career-best year last year. I hope Lovell Pinkney will find a home there.
He has all the tools and needs to learn the system. [Rookie Hayward] Clay
will bring a big blocking presence but not downfield speed to the position."
Brooks said that he has learned a lot in his first season as a pro coach.
"I have a lot better feel for the players we have, especially the players
we spent this year with," he said. "I have a general understanding
where our weaknesses were. I'm pretty sure what our strengths and weaknesses
are. I was right on most of them, but wrong on a few. And I have a lot less
doubt in my mind."
And the team's goals for 1996? "To be in the playoffs," he said.
"We played like a playoff team for a few months. Then we played like
Ned & The Third Reader the rest of the time. Do you need an explanation?
It goes back to school and the story of Ned, who couldn't get past the third
grade reader."
Oh. That certainly summed up the nose dive the team took at the end of 1995.
Following are the important dates of this year's training camp to prevent
a return of the Ned-heads.
July 19 - First full squad workout
July 25-26 - Practice with the Bears in Platteville, Wis.
July 27 - Scrimmage with the Bears in Platteville
Aug. 2 - Leave for Pittsburgh
Aug. 3 - Preseason game @. Steelers (5 pm)
Aug. 8 - Leave for St. Louis
Aug. 9 - Preseason game vs. Jaguars @ Transworld Dome (7 pm)
Aug. 16 - Camp breaks
Aug. 17 - Preseason game @ Kansas City vs. the Chiefs (7 pm)
Aug. 19 - Begin regular season daily schedule
Aug. 22 - Roster cut to 60 players
Aug. 23 - Preseason game vs. Chargers @ Transworld Dome (7 pm)
Aug. 28 - Roster cut to 53 players
Sept. 1 - Regular season opener vs. Bengals @ Transworld Dome (noon)
4.0 StLSO Game Recaps
4.1 Cardinals Series-by-Series Updates
4.1.1 Cardinals at Chicago (July 11-14) by JIM HUNSTEIN
IN THE ARCHIVES: The Cardinals maintained their hot pace in the NL Central
to push the Astros down and take over first place as they outscored the
Cubs 30-20. Seven of those runs came on 7 dingers in G3, tying a team record
set May 7, 1940. against the Dodgers. That's the Brooklyn Dodgers, of course.
By the way, anyone named Jordan should get to Chicago as soon as they can.
It seems that with a little talent, you can take over that town. Although
Brian Jordan is not quite as revered as Michael in Bull-Town.
ON THE SCOREBOARD: G1: 6-0 Cubs; G2: 13-3 Cards; G3: 10-5 Cards; G4: 7-6
Cards
GOING IN: Cards were 46-41 (.529), tied with the Astros at 47-42 (.528)
but ahead by a percentage point, 4 1/2 games ahead of the Reds.
COMING OUT: Cards were 49-42, in sole possession of first place 1 game ahead
of the Astros, still 4 1/2 ahead of the Reds
AT THE PLATE: Whatever Brian Jordan did over the All Star break is the newest,
greatest training technique known to the free world. He should write a book
and sell millions. Or at least charge huge coin to pump up the Olympic team.
All he did was go 10-for-17 in the series after an 0-for-4 G1. Jordan had
3 homers (2 in G3), 11 RBI, and 5 runs scored. BJ had a career-high 6 RBI
in G3. He raised his average from .295 after G1 to .317 after G4. If he
had enough ABs, he'd be #10 in the NL batting race. (Just a matter of time.)
Ron Gant had a 6-hit series including a hit in each game; two of those hits
were homers in G2. Ray Lankford also muscled up with homers in G2 and G4.
Gary Gaetti enjoyed the friendly confines as well, going deep twice in G2.
John Mabry had a tough series going hitless in G1, G3, and G4, but 4-for-5
with a homer in G2. For those keeping score at home, that was 7 homers in
G2 alone. Looks like the shortstop is the lead off batter now. Royce Clayton
was 6-for-14 in the first three games although Ozzie Smith was 0-4 in G4.
The only position in the batting order besides Gant at #3 was #9. Yes, each
starter got a hit in the series. The new face in the place is Mike Gallego,
who was just activated. He started G2 and G3.
ON THE BASEPATHS: Clayton and Lankford found the basepaths as much to their
liking as the pitches as they started to pull, no sprint, away from the
rest of the team in steals. Clayton has 2 for a team-leading 20 but Lankford
had 3 and trails by only 1 at 19. Next in line is Jordan, who was too busy
hitting everything in sight, with 12. Lankford had 2 steals in G4 including
second and third back-to-back.
OFF THE BENCH: The pinch-hitters did a better job this series going 3-for-11.
Mark Sweeney was 2-for-3 off the bench, including a double in G4. Smith
had the other pinch-hit, a single in G3. The last pinch-hitter in the series
struck out in the 9th of G4. It was Miguel Mejia, who is now 0-for-15.
ON THE MOUND: Pretty nice pitching all around. Donovan Osborne was victimized
in G1 by his team being 5-hit, one of which was his own. He did his job
holding the Cubs to 4 runs (3 earned thanks to yet another Luis Alicea error)
in 7 innings while fanning 8, but his record fell to 8-5. Andy Benes is
closing in on the .500 mark by winning 7th game (to go with 8 losses) in
G1. Todd Stottlemyre had a no-hitter going into the 4th inning of G3 and
made it through 7 innings to take the team lead with his 9th game. Alan
Benes responded with his 9th W in G4 but barely made it. He gave up 4 runs
in 5 innings but benefitted from the Cards' 4-run sixth inning while he
was still the pitcher of record. (Personal note: I always felt that if the
team rallies after the pitcher has been pinch-hit for, the pinch-hitter
ought to get the win. Except in this case since Big Al is on my fantasy
team.)
FROM THE BULLPEN: The bullpen got a work out this series. Dennis Eckersley
had three appearances and earned 2 saves in G3 and G4. He showed up to get
some exercise in the 9th of G2 and fanned 2 batters. Then he got the ultimate
save; on one pitch. It was a five-run lead but the bases were loaded, which
means the tying run was on deck, which means save opportunity. Eck had a
tougher challenge in G4 as he pitched the 9th for his 14th save of the season.
IN THE FIELD: Here's news: Alicea made an error. Actually two to bring his
total to 20. In G1 and G4, the two games he started. A few other errors
here and there, but after Alicea, who cares? In fairness, it should be noted
that Alicea came into this season with only 49 errors at second base in
458 major league games at second base. He also has 3 Es at short in only
7 games.
CATCH-ALL: Tough luck for David Bell, who was sent to Louisville to make
room for Gallego on the roster. Should have sent Alicea. At least Bell was
trying. And who would you rather have as a late-inning replacement with
a game on the line? As for who you might want at the plate with the bases
loaded and the game on the line, take one guess. As if Jordan doesn't have
enough going for him, he is batting .750 (9-for-12) with the bases juiced,
2 of those hits came in G2, one single and one salami.
OVERALL: To what do the Cards owe their great run in the past month or so?
Take your pick: Return of Gant off the DL; the lively bat of Mabry; the
settling in of Jordan in the clean-up position; the platooning of Alicea
at second to keep his hands of steel from hurting the team too much; the
settling in of Clayton at lead-off; quality starts by the rotation to keep
the bullpen fresh; the announced retirement of Ozzie to settle the team.
IN THE HOUSE: G1:38,802; G2:38,918; G3:39,254 G4:38,638 (nice consistency
in crowd size)
ON THE CLOCK: G1: 2:15 G2: 2:34; G3: 3:09; G4: 3:20 (short, long, longer,
longest)
UP NEXT: 3-game series in Cincinnati
4.1.2 Cardinals at Cincinnati (July 15-17) by MARK BAUSCH
IN THE ARCHIVES: The Redbirds' plane leaving Cincinnati was delayed so long
that returning to St. Louis via car was smarter time-wise. But waiting around
a clubhouse is sure more fun when you're in first place by four games...which
is where the Cardinals find themselves after sweeping the Reds in Cincinnati.
ON THE SCOREBOARD: G1: 8-3 Cards; G2: 5-4 Cards; G3: 6-4 Cards
GOING IN: First place...Cards were 49-42 (.538), one game in front of the
Astros.
COMING OUT: Cards were 52-42, still out in front, and now four games in
front of Houston.
AT THE PLATE: The hitting prowess of the Cardinals' outfielders is beginning
to be apparent. G1 highlights included two homers by Lankford, while Gant
homered in G2 and Jordan popped on out out of the yard in G3. Together,
those three are quite an imposing trio, and really fun to watch.
Mabry also homered in G3. Lankford, who sat out G3, had a total of four
hits and six RBIs in the first two games. The Cardinals shortstop duo of
Clayton (G1 and G2) and Smith (G3) contributed five hits to the club's attack,
while Gaetti had three hits in G2. Overall, the Cardinals had only 29 hits
in three games, which as much as anything else is a testament to the team's
timely hitting.
Lankford's two homers in G1 came in the first and third innings, and set
the tone for the entire series. Lankford also contributed a two-run RBI
double in the eighth inning of G1, and was thrown out at third trying to
stretch his hit into a triple.
ON THE BASEPATHS: The Wizard, who looked every bit of 41 years old in his
scamper from third to home following a sacrifice fly in Wrigley, was quicker
in G3 as he stole a base late in the game. His was the team's only successful
steal in the three games. There were no major bonehead plays by Redbirds-on-basepaths.
OFF THE BENCH: The regular starters played in G1, if Gallego can be called
a "regular" now. McGee filled in for Jordan in G2 and contributed
a base hit from the clean-up spot. Also in G2, Danny Sheaffer played third,
with Gaetti moving to first. John Mabry thus got the day off (he did pinch-hit
in the ninth) against Reds lefty John Smiley. McGee moved over to CF for
G3, giving Lankford a day off. After their day off in G2, in G3 Jordan and
Mabry responded with home runs.
ON THE MOUND: Starters--Morgan (G1), Osborne (G2) and Andy Benes (G3) went
seven, six, and eight innings, respectively. Morgan, in particular, had
real good stuff, inducing Reds hitters in 13 ground ball outs (out of 21).
FROM THE BULLPEN: In all three games, the relievers allowed but one run
in five innings of work. The Eck earned saves in G2 and G3.
IN THE FIELD: Perhaps the most encouraging thing about the Redbirds' recent
play has been their defense. The team was credited with four errors (including
two by Pagnozzi), but the plays that needed to be made were made...and some
that needed to be seen to be believed were made as well. In that category
was Ray Lankford's game-saving catch of a Thomas Howard liner to right center
field in the sixth inning of G2. The catch was among the best an outfielder
can make in that Lankford had to lunge across his body to get to the ball.
The Cardinals infield defense has tightened considerably with Mike Gallego's
insertion into the lineup. Gallego and whoever plays shortstop are making
all the plays around the middle of the infield...with Ozzie Smith ranging
to medium center field in G3 to run down a fly ball hit by Eric Davis.
CATCH-ALL: Good starting pitching, timely two-out hitting, reliable and
sometimes spectacular glove work, combined with startling home run power
from several sources...results in a three game sweep of the stumbling Reds.
Of course, the Cardinals were there to trip up the Redlegs, and only offered
to help them up AFTER they left town.
OVERALL: The Cubs are coming to town.
IN THE HOUSE: G1: 38,450; G2: 23,370; G3: 28,879
ON THE CLOCK: G1: 2:33 G2: 3:02; G3: 2:26
UP NEXT: 4-game series at Busch, vs. the Cubbies
5.0 StLSO Numbers
5.1 Cardinals Statistics (through 95 GAMES (July 18th))
5.1.1 Batting
AB H 2B 3B HR SLG R RBI BB SO OBP SB CS E AVG Mabry,John 326 105 18 1 9 .466 42 48 24 52 .369 1 1 5 .322 Borders,Pat 69 22 3 0 0 .362 3 4 1 14 .329 0 1 3 .319 Jordan,Brian 293 92 21 0 13 .519 56 66 14 56 .345 12 3 2 .314 McGee,Willie 202 61 10 1 3 .406 36 29 12 39 .341 3 1 2 .302 Pagnozzi,Tom 223 65 14 0 6 .435 28 35 10 44 .322 3 1 6 .291 Clayton,Royce 305 88 13 3 3 .380 42 22 23 61 .338 20 10 10 .289 Lankford,Ray 328 94 20 5 18 .543 67 60 44 74 .371 20 3 0 .287 Sheaffer,Danny 129 36 6 2 1 .380 8 15 6 14 .311 2 3 3 .279 Smith,Ozzie 112 30 3 1 0 .312 13 8 9 3 .322 3 3 3 .268 Sweeney,Mark 127 34 8 0 3 .402 22 17 23 22 .380 1 0 3 .268 Gaetti,Gary 282 73 15 0 10 .418 40 41 19 47 .306 1 2 8 .259 Gant,Ron 201 51 8 2 15 .537 39 44 44 41 .388 6 2 3 .254 Alicea,Luis 263 63 16 0 4 .346 33 29 33 53 .324 5 2 20 .240 Gallego,Mike 27 5 0 0 0 .185 3 1 1 4 .214 0 0 0 .185 Mejia,Miguel 15 0 0 0 0 .000 6 0 0 9 .000 3 2 1 .000
W L IP H R ER BB SO ERA SA BS HR G GS CG Mathews,TJ 1 2 50.1 33 19 15 22 45 2.68 3 3 4 38 0 0 Honeycutt,Rick 2 0 29.0 23 9 9 6 22 2.79 2 1 2 36 0 0 Osborne,Donovan 9 5 116.2 106 50 41 24 72 3.16 0 0 13 17 17 2 Fossas,Tony 0 4 28.0 29 15 10 13 20 3.21 2 3 6 39 0 0 Eckersley,D 0 5 33.2 35 16 13 4 31 3.48 16 1 4 33 0 0 Stottlemyre,T 9 6 135.1 122 62 59 57 121 3.92 0 0 19 20 20 3 Benes,Andy 8 8 134.1 134 69 62 34 88 4.15 1 0 18 21 20 2 Parrett,Jeff 2 2 40.1 39 19 19 20 40 4.24 0 2 2 31 0 0 Petkovsek,Mark 5 1 47.2 49 25 24 20 18 4.53 0 3 8 22 4 0 Morgan,Mike 3 3 68.0 70 36 35 28 34 4.63 0 0 10 11 11 0 Benes,Alan 9 5 111.0 111 77 64 48 79 5.19 0 0 15 19 19 2
American League National League
Eastern Divisions
Team Won Lost GB PCT Team Won Lost GB PCT
New York 57 36 - .613 Atlanta 60 34 - .638
Baltimore 49 44 8.0 .527 Montreal 51 43 9.0 .543
Toronto 43 52 15.0 .453 New York 46 49 14.5 .484
Boston 42 51 15.0 .452 Florida 45 50 15.5 .474
Detroit 28 68 30.5 .292 Philadelphia 40 54 20.0 .426
Central Divisions
Team Won Lost GB PCT Team Won Lost GB PCT
Cleveland 57 38 - .600 CARDINALS 52 43 - .547
Chicago 54 41 3.0 .568 Houston 49 48 4.0 .505
Milwaukee 47 47 9.5 .500 Chicago 44 50 7.5 .468
Minnesota 44 50 12.5 .468 Cincinnati 42 48 7.5 .467
Kansas City 42 54 15.5 .438 Pittsburgh 42 52 9.5 .447
Western Divisions
Team Won Lost GB PCT Team Won Lost GB PCT
Texas 55 40 - .579 Los Angeles 51 46 - .526
Seattle 51 42 3.0 .548 San Diego 51 46 - .526
Oakland 48 48 7.5 .500 Colorado 49 45 0.5 .521
California 45 51 10.5 .469 San Francisco 40 54 9.5 .426