Tagged: Molina

Cardinal Win The WC2 ~ With Controversial Call

As we have seen many times with the Cardinals … the opposing team scores first.  The Braves started out strong putting two runs on the board early in the game ~ bottom of the second.  Braves Ross was at the plate, 2 outs for Cardinals SP Lohse. Looking at the third out, Ross called timeout just as Lohse threw the ball. Home plate ump stepped out in front waving for the time out, as Ross swung and missed ~ cancelling the third strike.  Lohse delivers his next pitch which Ross took advantage of knocking it out of the park for a two run homer.

However, for Cardinals Craig started the team off in the fourth with a RBI, solo HR by Holliday put them up by one. Then they added two more runs, 5-2. Molina, Holliday, Freese and M. Carpenter also added RBI’s to their stats. The game was moving along with strategy and good play, except the errors committed by the Braves.  The Braves have had the least amount of errors in the league during the regular season, but not yesterday. And the Cardinals definitely took advantage of their mistakes with unearned runs.

Then we get to the bottom of the eighth inning and things got a bit dicey. Braves were trying their best to overcome ~ added an additional run off RP Mujica.  Cardinals RP Boggs was brought to the mound.  Chipper Jones was at the plate.  Boggs walked him. Ross gets a single. Simmons up – high fly inside the 3rd base line … Cardinals SS Kozma began to drift towards the ball which carried past the dirt into the outfield. The umpire called an infield fly ball – Simmons out at first. The motion from the third base umpire was slow … the ball coming down in between LF Holliday and Kozma.  Looks like Kozma has the catch, but backs off and the ball drops between Holliday and himself. With the stadium noise,  signal by the umpire ~ did Kozma hear Holliday to hold up or did he see the umpire indicating the infield fly.  From my seat, look to be an error on Kozma; however, I did not see Holbrook’s motion at the base line.

Of course, the Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez came out and after much discussion ~ protested the call. Bottles and debris from the upper deck began to cover the outfield. Players from both teams were removed from the field and the umpires all met on the mound to avoid injury. As the crew was cleaning up the field, the decision was being discussed and disclosed later.  MLB executive Joe Torre stated the protest had been denied.

The Cardinals over the Braves, 6-3.  Lohse gets the win and CP Motte the save. The customary celebration on the field was quickly moved to the locker room for the Cardinals.  Matheny wanted the players off the field. “The Braves haven’t won a playoff round since 2001. Since then, they’ve gone 0 for 7 – including six decisive losses at Turner Field.” Chipper Jones, retiring after 19 seasons, refusing any blame on the umpiring.  He stated they had beat themselves with the three errors, which one of those was his own in the fourth inning.

Ugly as it was, the Cardinals come out victorious and will face the Nationals (98-64) on Sunday at Busch Stadium for two games, before heading East. I believe this whole concept of Commissioner Bud Selig’s brainstorm has lessened the greatness of the sport. Don’t get me wrong, I am a Cardinal fan and elated at their success. However, with sharing the worst record of the teams in the playoffs ~ matching that of the Tigers (88-74) ~ playing in this “first time ever” WC2 game … at this next level, why should the WC2 winning team have home field advantage.  The way I look at it, the WC2 winner should travel to the home field of, not only a division winner, but the league’s best record holder. If the team is to move up, would it not be to prove they are truly worthy. But we stick with the “regular play-off” format ~ the division winners traveling to the home park of the team with the lesser W/L record.

But this “one game only WC2” brainstorm of Selig’s escapes me ~ other than his grand thought of additional revenue.  Many stated when the plan was announced ~ “will be interesting to see how this plays out”.  It certainly was  interesting ~ scary even ~ and I learned about the infield fly ball rule.  Yesterday’s game will not be remembered for great plays, home runs, RBI’s …. or even errors made ~ but an umpire supposedly deciding the outcome.  And many will argue that it should be the Nationals coming to Atlanta (94-69) to begin the play-offs vs a WC2 game.  I can’t blame them.  Seemed ridiculous when announced ~ but an added mystery at the same time.

I was sorry to see the Rangers eliminated by the Orioles, 5-1. The Ranger’s have worked hard for the past three seasons to “get over the hump”, but seems the continued strength of the Orioles was proven while at Arlington Park, and took the win.

Today baseball continues with the Oakland A’s (94-68) against the Detroit Tigers. The Cincinnati Reds (97-65) taking on the San Francisco Giants (94-68).

Whatever the outcome of your team may be … We have new teams and it will make this post season very interesting. Which will make it in for the World Series and take the Championship ~ would be interesting to to see an intrastate battle … the Giants against the A’s!  What a concept.

To all ~ have a very enjoyable day!  Always ~ Elichap

The Cardinals Are Inching Along – Steady As They Go

The Cardinals have won four of their last six games.  They split their previous four game series with the Dodgers and have taken the first two games of three from the Astros. In last night’s game, Cardinals SP Lance Lynn had another great night on the mound. Even better than his last appearance with his shutout last night in his 6.1 innings ~ only allowing the Astros 3 hits and struck out five at the plate.  With help from the offense ~ a two run homer by David Freese, solo home run by Yadier Molina, giving each their 20th this season. Cardinals added RBI’s from Matt Holliday and Allen Craig.  Lynn gets his 16th win and CP Jason Motte got his 37th save, 5-0 win over the Astros. This puts the Cardinals two ahead of the Dodgers, and holding the Brewers at 2.5 for the WC #2.

This afternoon’s game will wrap-up their short home stand with Cardinals SP Jamie Garcia, 4-7/4.24 against the Astros Bud Norris, 5-12/4.24.  Norris has been effective against the Cardinals, so we will see how the Cards handle their nemesis.

Tomorrow will begin with the Cardinals back on the road for six games before finishing their season at home for six hosting the Nationals, followed by the Reds.  Tomorrow at Wrigley field to face the Cubs will be SP Chris Carpenter’s debut this season. The “Carp” is returning from his lengthy rehab from his Tommy John’s surgery.  What a welcome this will be for the Cardinals … timing is perfect with a mild slump in recent games for the pitching line-up. I hope he does well on the mound, but more importantly ~ very nice to have him back and exciting to see him pitch again.  He will be up against Cubs Chris Volstad, 3-10/6.26.  As much as the Cardinals have had their pitching woes…so have the Cubs.  However….the rivalry between the two teams lives on ~ so the Cardinals can not take them for granted even with their record at 58-91.

The storm front that hit the Chicago area Monday which the Cubs playing the Pirates opted to play after an approximate four hour delay ~ moved to the East coast by Tuesday.  The Nationals, Yankees and the Mets had their games postponed. Since the Mets – Phillies played Monday, their make-up game will be today.   Double-headers were scheduled yesterday for both the Nationals – Dodgers, who split, and the Yankees – Blue Jays…Yanks winning both their games. All will play today to end their respective three game series.

On the heels of the Yankees, the Orioles sit a bare .5 behind in the AL East. The Orioles are leading the WC race in the AL along with the Oakland A’s. LA Angels are 3.5 games behind with the Tigers sitting at 5.  Even though … The A’s are only 4 games out of the AL West leader, the Rangers.  Tigers even closer to the White Sox, who are leading the AL Central, only by two games. There still are interesting possibilities that could occur within the 13 games left to be played.

In the NL, the Nationals – East, Reds – Central and the Giants – West …. have nothing to really be concerned about with all teams playing well right now.  Even though, the Nationals want to keep heads up ~ the Braves are only 5 games back.

We have a solid schedule to be played in the next 13 days ~ who will be “on first”.

To all ~ enjoy.  Always, Elichap

If A Loss Can Be Good ~ The Cardinals Had Theirs Yesterday

Win, win, win seems to be a topic of discussion of late with frustration over its importance.  However, pertaining to sports, it is the pinnacle of measurement of performance ~ whether it be a team and/or individual.  It’s a scale used to judge where improvement is necessary ~ wins vs. losses.  In sports ~ wins are the ladder in what we consider success and the hard work in honoring “the one”  that achieves a championship.  The best of the best.

If there is a “good loss” ~ the Cardinals had one yesterday.  For the standings, no it did not help….but they put their best foot forward and hung with the Nationals even with the excellent pitching of Nationals Stephen Strasburg.  The Cardinals offense did not allow the Nationals to walk all over them ~ as was apparent in the first two games of their series being handed consecutive shutouts.  Strasburg, as has been the hype, was excellent on the mound.  He allowed only two hits over six scoreless innings before being pulled.  Strasburg was short of perfect on the mound, no walks with 9 strike outs.  Cardinals Westbrook held the Nationals scoreless until the fourth inning with one run, and another in the sixth. Jake allowed 9 hits, 2 runs, had 1 walk, and 6 strike outs.  Lucky for the Cardinals that Strasburg was pulled?  Maybe.  It was the RP’s for both teams that gave up important runs ~ and for the Nationals, a bit of a scare.  Nationals RP Burnett game up 2 runs in the 7th to put the Cardinals on the board.  Cardinals RP Lance Lynn followed suit giving up two more runs in the 7th  Nationals RP Matthues gave up one to the Cards in the eighth. Then Cardinals CP Freeman and CP Clippard did their jobs well ~ closed it down….but with the Nationals on top for the win, 4-3.

So how does this equate to a “good loss”?  Nationals Stephen Strasburg gets a “no decision”.  For a starting pitcher that has to be a tough stat with such a great day on the mound.  The Cardinals RP Lance Lynn did get the loss ~ but the Cardinals, in a way, gave one back.

Even though, the Cardinals (72-62) need to get back on the winning side of things to see a happy ending come the end of this month.  They are back home hosting the Mets (64-70) in a three game series beginning this afternoon.

The Cardinals are hanging by a thread for the Wild Card position ~ St. Louis is one-half game ahead of the Dodgers and 1 1/2 in front of Pittsburgh in the race for the second wild card.

“St. Louis will get its first look at New York right-hander Collin McHugh (0-0, 0.00 ERA), who will make his second career start. His debut was outstanding as he struck out nine and yielded two hits over seven scoreless innings Aug. 23 in a 1-0 home loss to Colorado.”

Cardinals Joe Kelly will start today – 4-6/3.61.  Kelly does very well once he gets settled in ~ if he would think … “okay this is the third inning ~ gotta pull it together” from the get-go….he could have a Strasburg day!

The Cardinals  need Beltran to get back into his hitting mode as he “is enduring a 20-game homerless drought.  He is hitting .160 with 23 strikeouts in the 20 games since he went deep Aug. 10 at Philadelphia. He was 5 for 35 with 10 strikeouts on the Cardinals’ 4-6 road trip.”  Catcher Molina is also not 100% since his collision with Nationals Harrison during the first game of that series, still dealing with a stiff upper back and stiffness in his neck.  Not only is Molina a great catcher, but also has been a difference maker at the plate.  Two very strong players for the Cardinals ~ but we can not use a magic wand to get them back on track and/or healthy.  It takes more than one or two players to make a successful team in baseball.  The Cardinals have a lot riding on their shoulders ~ now is the time they will need to come together and decide ~ they truly can as a whole.

Baseball fans ~ enjoy your games.  In the past few days there have been slugfest across the nation. So we know it can be done offensively!  Have a great day ~

Always, Elichap

Cardinals Slide ~ But Not Out of The Picture ….

The Cardinals had a chance to hold only 7 back of the Reds and increase their lead over the Pirates….but, all good things come to those who wait??!!  Maybe, maybe not and don’t believe the Cardinals have too much waiting time left.  The Pirates took two of the three game series with two shutouts over the Cardinals.  Still….the Pirates are 1 back, followed by the Dodgers 1.5 in the Wild Card race. So, the Cardinals still have a tad of breathing room but much ground to make up, even though holding for the moment.

In Tuesday’s game ~ Cardinals C Yadier Molina was taken out with a power hit by Pirates Harrison while guarding home plate – leaving him dazed and down for a moment or two….but being the player Molina is ~ hung on to the ball.  Unfortunately, the collision at home plate left Molina with a strained upper back. However, the “train wreck” could have been far worse.  Fighting an ankle injury sustained in one of the games against the Astros, Molina may be able to rest both and to be back in the near future. Right now, he is listed on the day-to-day DL.  In Monday’s game, CF McCutchen got caught up in the soggy turf, twisting his right ankle….but seemingly was able to walk it off.  Two very good and respected players in their own right.  Two very good players that neither team would want to go without for any length of time.

In consideration of what transpired during the series between the Pirates and the Cardinals, I took a look at our overall picture.

Back in the early months of the season, by May 30, we had 188 players listed on the DL ranging from day-to-day, 15 & 60 day and some would not be returning this season.  Now, we are looking to September ~ October playoffs to the World Series. From mid-August to date, 62 players have been placed on the DL.

Those teams which have a stake, currently, at a Wild Card bid and/or playoffs … leading in the standings …. in addition to the Cardinals, with team members on the DL:

  • Atlanta Braves – P Ben Sheets, Rt. shoulder inflammation (15 day)
  • Baltimore Orioles – C Matt Wieters, Rt. shoulder contusion (d-to-d)
  • Chicago White Sox – P Gavin Floyd, Rt. elbow flexor strain (15 day)
  •                                       LF Dayan Viciedo, Rt. shoulder soreness (d-to-d)
  • LA Dodgers – CF Matt Kemp, Rt. knee contusion (d-to-d)
  •                          P Scott Ekbert, Left elbow inflammation (15 day)
  •                          P Chad Billingsley, Rt. elbow pain (15 day)
  • NY Yankess – P Ivan Nova, Rt. shoulder tightness (15 day)
  • Oakland A’s – P Jordan Norberto, Left shoulder tendinitis (15 day)
  • Pittsburgh Pirates – 2B Neil Walker, Lower back stiffness (d-to-d)
  •                           P Chad Qualls, Left toe sprain (15 day)
  •                           LF Starling Marte, Strained rt. oblique (15 day)
  • San Francisco Giants – P Clay Hensley, Strained rt. groin (15 day)
  •                                            CF Justin Christian, Sprained left wrist (15 day)
  • Texas Rangers – RF Nelson Cruz, Bruised left elbow (d-to-d)
  • Washington Nationals – SS Ian Desmond, Strained rt. hamstring (d-to-d)
  •                                              RF Michael Morse, Rt. hand contusion (d-to-d)

Interesting to note ~ there are three teams without injuries…Brewers, Cubs and the Reds.

We don’t like to see or hear about any player on the DL, but in sports ~ it happens and a team must overcome the pains of the injured.  I don’t know if Molina’s situation made that much difference for the Cardinals, because the Pirates are a strong team….but seemingly, the Cardinals did nothing after that point of contact.   The Pirates two wins over the Cardinals have put them back on track to overtake the Cardinals once again ~ “IF” the Cardinals don’t become more consistant putting wins on the board.

New news for the Cardinals ~ no, it’s not….but the bottom line is ~ the players have to commit to making a difference each and every game.  The time of some wins here, some wins there, is over.  The proof of their strength will soon be at hand….or not.

To all have a great evening.  The Cardinals begin their four game series against the Nationals in Nationals Park.  Will Strasburg be on the mound during their series?  Time will tell.  Tonight will be Cardinals Garcia (3-5/4.15) against Nationals Jackson (7-9/3.72).  Once again the Cardinals find themselves in a “must win” situation.  Are they up for the task….

To all ~ enjoy your games.  Always, Elichap

Cardinals ~ Rain Delay, But Take the Win ~ AL & NL

The Cardinals continue their track and take the first game in Pittsburgh handing the Pirates a loss, 4-3.  This was the Pirates sixth in their last seven games.  Cardinals SP Lohse had hitless innings through the third, but hit a speed-bump in the fourth giving up 2 runs. Lohse had no walks and three strike outs.  The Cardinals rallied back in the fifth putting up two runs to tie.  With rain beginning to fall, the game continued into the sixth inning.  A call to delay by the officials, but not before Cardinals Matt Holliday crunched a home run into the upper deck giving the Cards their lead that held for the night.  That was Holliday’s 24th HR this season. CP Motte got the save ~ his 31st in 36 chances.  But it was Holliday that gave Lohse his win.

Cardinals catcher Molina still does not look to be 100%, due to injury to his left ankle, but did have a couple of hits and ran the bases for a one of the Cardinals runs.  Pirates CF McCuthen’s right foot got caught up in the soggy turf, and was limping a bit after the play.  Neither team can afford to lose either player ~ both are key players for their respective teams, and great players in their own right.

However, a much-needed win for the Cardinals in view of the Wild Card Race.  For review, and for those putting winners to paper ~

In the American League ~ top of the standings are the Yankees (East), White Sox (Central) and the Rangers (West).   Wild Card standings at the moment …

  • Baltimore Orioles (70-57)
  • Oakland A’s (70-57)
  • Tampa Bay Rays (70-58)  .5
  • Detroit Tigers (69-58) 1.0

In the National League ~ top of the standings are the Nationals (East), Reds (Central) and the Giants (West)  Wild Card …

  • Atlanta Braves (73-56)
  • St. Louis Cardinals (71-57)
  • LA Dodgers (69-60)  2.5
  • Pittsburgh Pirates (68-60) 3.0

As we can see the race is a bit tighter in the American League.  With approx. 34 games left to play, much can happen.  It will be interesting to see how it comes down at the end.  But the Cardinals are in a must-do situation to extend the gap to be assured of a spot in the playoffs.

Everyone have a great day and continue to enjoy your games.  Always ~ Elichap

 

 

Cardinals On The Downside of The Teeter-Totter

As much as the Cardinals put pressure on the Reds during Friday’s game to take the win ~ yesterday the Reds gave a the Cardinals some “payback”.  Reds SP Mike Leake was on the mound 6.2 innings and did allow 10 hits ~ but with the Reds defensive, the Cardinals were only able to put two runs on the board for a loss to the Reds, 8-2.  Leake had no walks and three strike outs, 4.51 ERA for the day.  Offensively, the Cardinals were sluggish at best and left way too many runners = opportunities stranded.

Cardinals SP Jaime Garcia, who recently returned from the DL with a should strain, did not have his best day.  In his six inning stretch, the Reds put up seven hits with four runs. Garcia allowed two walks, but did have five strike outs.  In the top of the seventh, the Cardinals did tighten on the Reds lead with their second run by Cruz on Robinson’s grounder…a double play for the Reds, 2-4, then Leake was then retired from the mound.

Cardinals RP Dickson, followed Garcia for the seventh.  RP Barrett Browning had been sent down to Memphis, with Dickson being brought up.  Dickson made two relief appearances for the Cardinals earlier this season (May 19 at LAD & May 24 vs. PHI), allowing one unearned run on three hits in his 2.1 innings pitched.  He has fashioned a 5-11 mark with a 3.55 ERA in 22 starts at Memphis this season, ranking 4th among Pacific Coast League ERA leaders.  However, definitely not his best performance in the seventh and the Reds took full advantage of the rookie RP.  Dickson allowed four hits, 4 runs ~ Reds B. Phillips had a solo home run on a full count, Rolen put up a double RBI and a single by D. Novarro to bring in Bruce for their eighth run. Dickson ended his inning with a 10.80 ERA.  The bullpen has been an issue for the Cardinals all season … and, for yesterday, Dickson was not the solution for manager Matheny. CP Rzepczynski at least held the Reds from adding anymore runs to the board.  It was rookie CP J Hoover, for the Reds, who was credited with a save.

Both C Yadier Molina, twisted left ankle in a recent game against the Astros, and 3B David Freese, injured left wrist by a wild pitch in Friday’s game against the Reds, are on the day-to day DL. Freese was to have a C-scan of his wrist yesterday to determine how soon he will return.  Both players are key players for the Cardinals ~ and any length of time, at this juncture, will make a difference.   No one likes to see any player go down, and can only hope that both are back in the line-up very soon.  The Reds Votto, who has been on their 15 day DL, is very close to returning but still working the rehab for his knee.  Even though injuries leave a void in a line-up, a team must find a way to overcome ~ and the Reds certainly have done that.

The three game series is split between the Cardinals and the Reds.  Starting pitchers for today’s game will be Cardinals Adam Wainwright (12-10/3.65) with opposing the Reds Homer Bailey (10-8/4.11).  The Reds have the strongest defense in the league, which the Cardinals can match ….but offensively, the Cardinals have got to hold their teeter-totter ride of this season ~ at the top.  Even though the weather has improved somewhat, the heat is still on the Cardinals ~ their safety zone for a Wild Card position is not in stone…especially since the Pirates shutout the Brewers yesterday, 4-0.  And once this series is closed out, the Cardinals will head to Pittsburgh to face the Pirates again for three games. Then a four game series against the strong Washington Nationals which will be their first  series for this season ~ taking the Cardinals into September.  Much to be accomplished, and much to prove, between now and the end of September … which the Cardinals will “host” the Nationals, followed by the Reds in their last six games of the regular season.  So, does manager Matheny and team have it in them to overcome?!!  The anticipation and excitement builds.

So baseball fans ~ to your team, good luck …. there is a lot of great baseball yet to be played.

Have a great day ~ Always, Elichap

Cardinals Continue to Roll ~ Road Trip

Yes, the Cardinals did use their broom and swept the Astros with the decisive third game win, 12-5, Thursday night ~ which closed the Cardinals 9 game home stretch.  Last night, they began their road trip in Cincinnati who are leading in the NL Central.  Not only was this game crutial … as they all will be from here on out … for the Cardinals Wild Card hopes, but to hold the Reds lead in the division.  The Cardinals continued their strong play last night and showed the Reds SP Mat Latos no mercy.

The game began with what the Reds’ fans expected ~ their team in the lead without much difficulty. By the bottom of the 5th inning, Reds had the lead 5-2.  Cardinals SP Lance Lynn gave up six hits for four runs, 2 walks and only one strike out. Lynn was retired early in the third inning.  Joe Kelly followed Lynn for the next 3 innings with four hits, one run, one walk and six strike outs.  Collectively for the remainder of the game ~ the Cardinals bullpen settled in and only allowed 6 hits, and had an impressive 13 strike outs.

Cardinals 3B David Freese had a ground out double, with Craig scoring in the second, and then an RBI in the fourth to put 2 runs on the board for the Cardinals.  But it was the sixth inning for Reds SP Latos that allowed the Cardinals to take command of the game on the board.  FB Allen Craig had a three run homer, followed by a solo home run by C Yadier Molina.  An RBI by Furcal and a sacrifice hit by Matt Carpenter to bring in Skip Schumaker for a score, 8-5, in the Cardinals favor. With the great performance by the Cardinals bullpen, their lead was held to take the win over the Reds. RP Joe Kelly (4-5) got the win, and Jason Motte added another save to his record to give him 30 in 35 chances.

During the eighth inning, 3B David Freese was hit by a wild pitch on his left wrist … as the bruise was quite evident, can only hope all is well and he will be in the line-up for today.  Reportedly, FB Lance Berkman, on the DL with inflammation in his right knee ~ seriously contemplating retirement after this season.  When Berkman is to return to the current line-up is still in question.

This was the Cardinals four straight win.  And with the Pirates losing to the Brewers, 6-5, yesterday ~ which my congrats goes out the Milwaukee ~ the Pirates have had as many losses in recent days with being swept by the Padres.  Now, the Cardinals are two ahead of the Pirates taking over second place in the NL Central…and closed the gap behind the Reds to six.  For the Wild Card race….the Cardinals are tied with the Braves, and sit 1.5 ahead of the Dodgers in the National League.  In the American League, the Rays, Orioles and the Oakland A’s are tied leading the Tigers by one, and the LA Angels by 2.5.

Other scores yesterday ~ the Rangers shutout the Twins, 8-0. The Dodgers handle the Marlins with ease, 11-4.  The Oakland A’s hold their lead over the Rays for a win, 5-4.  The Orioles take the win over the Blue Jays, 6-4.   The Phillies keep the Nationals from adding to their win column, handing the Nationals a loss, 4-2.  And for the southenders of Chicago ~ their White Sox continue to add to their lead in the AL Central 2.5 games over the Tigers ~ with a win over the Mariners, 9-8.

So, the race continues down the stretch.  For the Cardinals, SP Garcia (3-4/4.00) will be on the mound against the Reds SP Leake (5-8/4.59).  Yet another day, another game to concentrate on.

To you all ~ enjoy your games.   Just a note away from baseball ~ the Chicago Bears did squeak by the NY Giants in their preseason game, 20-17.  However, I do believe the Bears have a bit more “tweaking” to do prior to their regular season begins on offense ~ Chris Williams has got to go bye-bye!!  The boy is big ~ but just not capable of stopping a flea!!!  We’ll see how Lovie handles that situation ~ among numerous others.  A lot of work to be done before they face the Colts September 9th!  However, the Bears do have one more preseason to prove they have the kinks out ~ August 30th  against the Cleveland Browns.

Have a great day!!   Always, Elichap

Oh What a Night For The St. Louis Cardinals ~ Rest Is Good

What a day for the St. Louis Cardinals (66-56) coming off a tough loss on Sunday in the longest game this season ~ 19 innings ~ to the Pirates.  They had Monday off, and it sure seemed to help.  They are hosting the Houston Astros (39-84) and played game one of their three games series last night.
It was a great game to watch and reinstilled hope, once again, to Cardinal fans.
SP Adam Wainwright (12-10) was the man of the night.  After returning this season from the DL due to Tommy John surgery, his performance has slowly but surely returned, and may even be better than before.  Last night he pitched his second complete game of the season with only 5 hits, no errors, 1 walk, and 12 strike outs, which matched his season high for a shutout, 7-0. He didn’t even look tired on the mound and had full control over the Astros line-up.  Wainwright had great support from the team both offensively and defensively.

Cardinals CF John Jay was awesome with a couple of catches at the wall and one diving catch in center field.  SS Furcal made an excellent catch at second, having to make a complete turn to make the throw to first for the out.  A total of six RBI’s by Jay, Molina and Schumaker added to the excitement.

This brings the Cardinals back to within one of the Pittsburg Pirates (67-56) with their second loss to the San Diego Padres (55-70), 7-5.  Of course, the Cincinnati Reds (75-49) continue to inch their way forward away from both teams with a win over over the Phillies (57-66), 5-4 ~ in the NL Central.

Other great news for the Cardinals, SP Jake Westbrook (12-9) signed an extension for 2013, with an option for 2014.  Two great pitchers for the Cardinals, adding to their improving bullpen.  Another very prominent pitcher for the Cardinals will start tonight, Kyle Lohse (12-2/2.61) against Astros SP B. Norris (5-10/5.23).

This is the time for the Cardinals to begin to make their move ~ a sweep over the Houston Astros would certainly be nice to see.  It’s essential for the Cardinals if they want Wild Card hopes in their future ~ their schedule is not going to be any easier.  Closing out this home stretch of three series, they will be on the road for the next 9 games. The Cardinals will face Red, Pirates and the Nationals (77-46).  Two first place teams and must fight to knock the Pirates out of second.  Going to be a very interesting race as we get closer to closing out this season.

To all ~ have a great day and enjoy your games.  Always, Elichap

Cardinals vs. Pirates = Longest Game This Season

For both St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirate fans it was a very long game for those who stayed till the very end.  A crowded house at Busch Stadium of 43,437.  A game that required strength, endurance and perseverance ~ even for the umpires.  The game began in the early afternoon and ended in the early evening hours. The longest game recorded this season ~ 19 innings.  By the end of the game, there might have been 10,000- dedicated fans remaining to watch the Cardinals fall to the Pirates, 6-3.

Cardinals SP Garcia, recently returning off the DL,  had an excellent game.  Pitched 8 innings, with 5 hits, allowed two unearned runs, no errors, no walks and 10 strike outs.  Pirates SP Karstens allowed 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 errors, 1 walk and 4 strike outs through his 7 innings.  It was a game of defense throughout and tied 2-2 after the ninth.  Then longevity set in.

Two great defensive plays in the extra innings by Cardinals C Molina.  In the 13th a throw out at first on an attempted steal … and in the 16th, a throw out at second on an attempted stolen base ~ both attempts by Pirates Tabata.

Both managers had to make decisions about their line-up and strategic bullpen picks, and as the game went, using most of their pitchers.  Cardinals Joe Kelly, brought up for the Cardinals as a SP, had been placed in the bullpen after the return of SP Garcia.  He came in at the 12th and pitched the next 5.2 innings.  He was doing an excellent job with his fast ball ~ until the 17th inning.  He had a wild pitch, loaded the bases with two hits, and one intentional walk of Alverez with only one out.  Kelly was retired from the mound and replaced by Rzepczynski.  Pirates Jones was at the plate ~ single hit to bring McDonald in to score.  Pirates take the lead 3-2, but not for long.  The Cardinals came back in the bottom of the 17th to tie the game with a sacrifice fly into left field by T. Cruz and Jackson, who had replaced Molina on first as pinch-runner, in for the score ~ once again game tied.

Cardinals manager Matheny decided on Browning to pitch in the 19th ~ personally, I would have gone with Salas, but it was what it was.  Browning had done very well in his last few RP appearances…so Matheny’s confidence obviously there for him.  However, and unfortunate for him and the Cardinals,  the first batter he faced was Alverez.  On a 1-2 count, Alverez hit a solo home run.  Then Pirates McCutchen followed with a two run RBI.

The Cardinals could not overcome in the bottom of the 19th.  Pirates CP W. Rodriguez held the Cardinals in the last two innings, to 1 hit, 1 walk and 3 strike outs.  The Cardinals lose the game of endurance, along with two games of the three game series to the Pirates.  This puts the Cardinals (65-56) back two games behind the Pirates (67-54) in the NL Central.  The Cincinnati Reds (74-48) continue to increase their lead with two wins of their three game series over the Cubs (47-73).

The Cardinals have today off before hosting Houston in their last 3 game series at home. The Pirates travel to San Diego to play the Padres ~ their series beginning tonight.  We will see if the long game of yesterday affects the Pirates series to be played.  However, they are a tough team … and this is baseball. Many games in many days.

Hopefully everyone enjoyed their games yesterday.  Two shutouts yesterday, Dodgers over the Braves, 5-0, and the Phillies take out the Brewers, 8-0.  Other scores, the Nationals, still holding strong, won over the Mets, 5-2.  The Rangers handle the Blue Jays easily, 11-2.  Tampa Bay ousted the Angels, 8-3.  And the Royals come out on top of the White Sox, 5-2.

Now, as we are closing in on fall season playoffs ~ only 41 games left to play in regular season….is interesting to note ~ the Cardinals were at the same W/L record last year as they stand now.  Will be interesting to see if they can have a repeat performance. But I’m sure ~ if the Nationals, or the Rangers, have anything to say about it ~ NOT!

To all have a great day!!  Always, Elichap

Cardinals Save the Broom For Another Day

The Cardinals third game against the Arizona Diamondbacks got under way after a rain delay last night. Once the weather front moved through ~ the tarp was removed and time to play ball. The Cardinals had won the first two games in their three game series, 8-2 & 5-2 … looking to sweep the Diamondbacks and to keep Arizona without a win against the Cardinals this season.  But, the best laid plan did not come to light last night with Arizona winning the game, 2-1.

The highlight of the evening for the Cardinals was that FB Craig had his 62nd RBI to put the Cardinals on the board in the bottom of the fifth off D-back’s SP Trevor Cahill.  Other than that one run, Cahill pitched a solid game for the Diamondbacks with only 5 hits, 1 walk and 4 strikeouts through his six innings. Cardinals SP Kyle Lohse, also, was having a good night on the mound with only 4 hits, 3 walks and 5 strikeouts backed by great defense from the team.  Even though the offense was not commanding at the plate, as we had seen in the previous two games, to support Lohse on the mound, he held his own.   The Diamondbacks were held without any runs while Lohse was pitching and were looking at a shutout ~ until the ninth inning stand.

Surprising to fans and team alike ~ CP Jason Motte got caught off guard in the ninth.  He has proven to be a steady force late in the game for the Cardinals with 27 saves.  However, last night was just not one of those nights for him. With two outs on the board, Diamondback Goldschmidt and C. Young each had back to back solo home runs on a 0-0 count.  Motte was removed from play ~ only his fourth time having to step down.  Followed by Salas to quiet things down and the final out.  Diamondbacks take the lead, 2-1 which would prove to be the final score with D-backs CP JJ Putz shutting the Cardinals out 1-2-3.  This was Putz’ 14th consecutive save for his 23 total in 27 overall. The Diamondbacks save a sweep by taking game three and end their losing streak against the Cardinals.

Tonight the Cardinals (64-54) begin their three game series against the Pirates (65-53).  Cardinals SP Westbrook (12-8/3.62) against the Pirates SP McDonald (10-5/3.77).  With a very brief tie for second with the Pirates, the Cardinals are now one behind. Not only were their two wins against the Diamondbacks crucial ~ to shut down the Pirates is even more so. The Cardinals still sit seven behind Cincinnati ~ but with a sweep over the Pirates would definitely help.  The question will be ~ who’s hungrier?!

Cincinnati will be playing the Cubs.  If their series pans out as a repeat of their last meeting in Chicago ~ the Reds will walk away with a sweep. Both the Cardinals and the Pirates have a definite stake in the next 3 games. And in baseball ~ I take nothing for granted….just a great deal of “hope”!

So ~ again, as always ~ we wait with anticipation for the game to begin.

Onto another sporting venue ~ NFL preseason. I don’t hold a lot of stock in the football preseason games other than “try-outs” for players to make the team.  Even though, we had two games last night with the Browns smashing the Packers, 35-10 ~ that score I do enjoy seeing!  🙂  And a tight game between the Bengals and the Falcons with Cincinnati coming out on top, 3-0.

To all ~ have a great day and enjoy your game of choice.

Always, Elichap