St. Louis Cardinals weighing options as Winter Meetings get underway – MLB News
With varying needs and focus as eventful as they are anticipated to be, the Winter Meetings kicked off on Monday. The first day, however, did not turn out to be eminently filled with any big deals.
The St. Louis Cardinals, the 2011 World Series champion, are looking for a left-handed reliever and a right-handed hitter. Unlike last year when they were engaged in a hectic talk over the fate of Albert Pujols – club’s former slugger, the ongoing Winter Meetings have not been that eventful so far.
Cardinals entered these meetings with a modest shopping list. That was corroborated by the enunciation about the limited number of players they need. Add to it the fact that the Cardinals seem a bit hesitant in investing a big sum.
General manager John Mozeliak gave an overview of what the Cardinals were looking for and how things have been going so far.
With Jeremy Affeldt and Jonathan Broxton signing a contract with the respective teams and Joakim Soria in talks with the Texas Rangers, the Cardinals know how quickly the market has dwindled when it comes to availability of the reliever.
"Clearly, the market is moving a little bit, and how you adjust is obviously critical if you're going to get deals done," Mozeliak said. "We're aware of it. We recognize it. I think as the next few days unfold, we'll see if we can be players in it."
When it comes to filling the need for a hitter, he has to be proactive defensively as well as useful when it comes to offensive prowess.
"Obviously, the more positions a player can play, the more flexibility he gives to the manager," he responded. "That's desirable. But I think the more critical part is the late-inning bat off the bench."
John Mozeliak was also inquired about the possible extension talks with the pitcher Adam Wainwright. General manager, however, wants to remain focused on filling the roster at the moment.
"This week," Mozeliak said, "I think is going to be more focused in additions to the roster than discussing anything in terms of contract extensions."
With Jeremy Affeldt and Jonathan Broxton signing a contract with the respective teams and Joakim Soria in talks with the Texas Rangers, the Cardinals know how quickly the market has dwindled when it comes to availability of the reliever.
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