December 7, 2004
Walton’s Wanderings
By Brian Walton
Ankiel Picks Up First P.R. Win
On Sunday, Rick Ankiel pitched a five-hit, seven-inning shutout for Carolina in the Puerto Rican league. The complete game win was in the first of a doubleheader. One one hand, Ankiel fanned seven and walked none and allowed just one extra base hit. On the other, he hit two more batters and uncorked a wild pitch.
King Strong Supporter of Drug Testing
I really like this guy and now, even more. From the San Francisco Chronicle: "If it takes putting Bud, Don (Fehr, union chief) and doctors in a room, locking 'em up and not letting 'em out until they get something resolved, I'm all for it."
“I can only speak for myself. I'm willing, if they want to come knocking on my door, to be tested. Give me the cup. I enjoy playing the game, and I'm open to whatever we need to do to put a bright spot back on baseball.”
Ledee Signs in L.A.
Outfielder Ricky Ledee agreed to terms on a two-year, $2.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The only reason it is noted here is due to its size. We’re talking about a million and a quarter for a journeyman fourth outfielder here. Ledee is coming off a .233 2004 campaign, is a career .242 hitter and has never had 260 at-bats in a season. He’s joining his sixth team in five years. Guys like John Mabry have to feel good when they see deals like this.
Gammons on Clement
ESPN’s Peter Gammons calls the Dodgers and the Cardinals the leaders in signing Cubs free agent Matt Clement, with a deal possible at the upcoming winter meetings. However, later reports say that the Cubs will offer Clement arbitration. It is unknown at this time if Clement would decline.
Renteria to Reunite with Vina?
There are rumors that the Detroit Tigers may make a run at Edgar Renteria, as general manager Dave Dombrowski knows Edgar well from their time together in Florida. The Tigers have been willing to overpay for free agents they desire. The story goes on to say that incumbent Carlos Guillen would move to third to make room for Edgar. Free agent third baseman Troy Glaus reportedly already has a Tigers offer on the table, though, so something would have to give.
Riggleman Returns to Red
Jim Riggleman was named Cardinals minor league field coordinator, replacing Jim Humphreys, who is retiring after the season. Riggleman registered a .472 winning percentage in eight seasons as manager of the Padres and Cubs in the 90’s. Prior to that, he was Cardinals player development director and first base coach under Whitey Herzog. It had been expected for some time that Riggo would not be returning to the Dodgers, where he was their bench coach for the last four seasons.
Four Minor League Deals
Baseball America reported that the Cardinals have signed four players to minor league contracts. They are outfielder Brandon Berger, first baseman Bo Robinson and right handed pitchers Chuck Bechtel and Toby Borland. The Cardinals also placed right handed pitcher Shane Reedy on the restricted list.
Cubs Add ex-Cards Trainer
The Cubs hired Mark O'Neal as their new head athletic trainer. He was previously the Cardinals’ assistant athletic trainer. O'Neal had worked in the Cardinals organization for 15 years, including five years as medical and rehabilitation coordinator at the major league level
