[Illusion]

They just got swept by the last place Pirates and now only lead the central by a slim 1.5 games. What's your take on this team?

[bigboydan]

the need to make a move before the trade deadline is gone for good. the problem is that the cardinals ownership refuses to go over there alotted budget for salaries this year.

[EBone]

Ill, the bottom line is that this team simply does not have the horses to make it this year. It's quite a shame too. Because if they don't make the playoffs this year, they will really have to re-tool offensively next year, I believe.

They should have a solid nucleus for next year's starting rotation in: Carp, Reyes and Wainwright with possibly Suppan coming back. They'll have to go sign some guys but these 3 should be a start to a good starting staff next year. The problem is that they are running out of good players to protect Pujols. Nobody can really do it on this team except Rolen and he can't bat twice in the lineup(behind and in front of Pujols). I really believe this team is in serious trouble of losing the division and possibly finishing 3rd behind the Reds and the Astros. But, the division is so bad that they may be able to come out of it with a division crown and an early exit from the playoffs.


E