USSMariner should be a daily read for all, but if not, be sure to check out some notable Rule V players available. (Conor Glassey, the author, is currently working for Baseball America.) The only ones the Cardinals might have interest in would be the LH relievers given that their current options are Manning, Ostlund and perhaps Miller. Not an inspiring group.
My prediction for the Cardinals draft is — no one. There’s not an obvious need with an obvious player to fill it or somone who really projects as major league ready that they could poach. I’d like for them to grab a lefty but it’s not a real “miss” if they don’t.
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eduardo morlan is the big name that sticks out to me. he has big time stuff, a track record of success, and was pretty good as a 22 year old in AA last year. i would think he would be a pretty good bet to stick and provide some help out of a major league bullpen.
the obvious guy that draws my attention for the cardinals is donnie veal. he was once a big time prospect and has a good arm for a lefty. the control has always been a problem, and he has been pretty bad in the AFL. however, maybe going to a different organization could help him out, and i would love to steal a productive player from the cubs.
I’d be more than happy to see them take a shot on Veal as well if he’s available. Same for Morlan. Brad Kilby is a lefty with a deceptive herky jerky delivery that would probably be an effective LOOGY. But yeah, I don’t think they take anyone.
They should take someone! They will have the roster space and it will only costs them $25K. If they don’t take advantage of the chance to basically have a free look at someone then I will be seriously disappointed.
Btw, Haerther was not protected at the AAA level so a team can draft him in the minor league phase and keep him in the minors. I don’t know why the Cards don’t cut him if they don’t want him.
Is there anywhere to find which players are not protected from the minor league rule 5 draft?
See link in the article above
I agree on Veal. Kid’s always had a good arm, but not a whole lot of control over what’s going on with it. Lefty, funky, deceptive delivery, good stuff. Sign me up for 50K.
And they have to take someone. This is freely available talent at its best. Costs you a roster spot and nothing else. Guy’s no good, send him back. Glorious. Not taking anyone at all would just be foolish.
I don’t think they do want Haerther but they wouldn’t mind the cash that comes form a rule V draft, at least that is the only thing that makes sense.