October 23, 2004
Tony La Russa Pre-Game Comments - Game One
Reported by Brian Walton
On losing Kline:
Our attitude is no negative vibes. I feel worse for Steve than I do for us. Still will find a way to win. Important like Carpenter. Tough break, but will do without.
On Morris in Game Two:
Had an edge and decided to play it. Pitched only 80 pitches last start. Couldn’t have done it otherwise. Has a lot of road post-season experience. Will be ready if it goes six. Plus, get Jason as another hitter at home.
On pressure or relief personally:
Opportunity is not a manager thing. They ride coattails of players. Doesn’t look at personally. Opportunity is the players. Only three have rings, everyone else gets first shot.
On Carpenter:
Carp was cleared for 50-60 pitches including 30 warmups. He and Duncan didn’t want something bad to happen. Not fair, not safe risk to take. He and Duncan would have left the game if something had happened. Carp will lead staff next year.
Comparing Cards and A’s lineups:
Won't do it. Don’t want to make one look bad. Chicago ’83 club was really good, too. Everyone is different.
On whether match-ups are overanalyzed:
Baseball is meant to be analyzed. It’s part of the enjoyment. Then play the game.
On Reyes:
Not that much of a lefthanded presence on Red Sox. Reyes led PCL in saves. Thin margin as better choice over Flores. Getting Ankiel ready for winter ball.
On Taguchi:
Been real good in the clutch. Experienced from his play in Japan. Never in awe. Probably will have Sanders back in left Sunday.
On Marlon Anderson:
One of neatest things that happened this season. Didn’t pout when Womack came to team. Real dangerous pinch-hitter. Admired how he dealt with role.
On memories of ’67 series:
I was a big Yaz fan. Grew up in Tampa, Yankees and American League fan. Not paying attention to Cards then. Remembered Gibson though. Red wishes he was still on the team.
On weather:
Cold for coaches and fans. Players get into it, so not as big of a problem.
On whether StL and Boston are two best baseball cities:
Not my style to compare. Other good cities, too. Tied for first as best you can find.
On having Edgar:
Has World Series success. He wants a Cards ring. Intensity.
On impressions of Fenway:
If we win, interleague play last season helps familiarity. Fans up close. Pressure there, Exciting atmosphere.
On Francona:
He has a lot of credits on resume. Managed Michael Jordan, who respects him. La Russa roomed with his Dad as 18-year old. Tito Francona treated him well. TLR tried to get Terry once as left-handed hitter. Francona handled Philly well.
