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The headline read..."Cardinals willing to listen to offers for Ankiel and Ludwick".

While it didn't come as a surprise, it did however make me wonder a little bit. Just what direction are these Cardinal's heading?

While I admit that Ankiel has his flaws as a hitter (some might disregard the term altogether and call him a "hacker") and that Ludwick's breakout year may have been a statistical anomaly, you can't deny that the two are above average major league talent.

I realize that the Cardinal's head into this offseason with a laundry list of needs. With the uncertainty of Carpenter's future, the lack of bullpen depth, and the guys impersonating baseball players that continue to trot out between first and third everynight, it's certain that Mo has his hands full this offseason. But even with all these needs, doesn't it seem kind of absurd to trade away proven assets in the OF (an OF that is a strength for a club that doesn't have many), to help out these other areas? It's like robbing Peter to pay Paul.

I wouldn't disagree with the logic if the Cards didn't hold other- well, for lack of a better word- 'cards' in their hand. While Mozeliak did say that it was unlikely either Ankiel or Ludwick get traded, he admitted it would be something he would consider. Meanwhile, the Cardinals have a hot prospect in Rasmus that he refuses to even dangle!

Ankiel and Ludwick were two of 2008's "feel good" stories. Both came in and performed admirably in a season that was supposed to be a throw away. They kept us in games, they gave us hope. Futhermore, they proved that they belong on this level. Sure, Ludwick might not hit 37 homeruns again next year (if ever), and Ankiel might rack up another 100 k's, but they proved they have what it takes to contribute on a major league club. That's something you can't say about Rasmus.

Now, I don't hate Rasmus. Quite the contrary. I was one of those defending him when the Cardinals got rid of Edmonds with an eye twoard the future. But after seeing the club exceed expectations this year, after being in the thick of a playoff race for so long, and after winning more games than we did the year we actually won the series, I just can't see us wasting anymore opportunities. I mean, how many more years can we miss the playoffs with a guy like Albert Pujols in our lineup. How many more years can we afford to trade away protection for one of the greatest hitters in baseball, while he's in his prime?!

Do we have needs? Sure. But, I just think that we'd be better served if Mo looked to deal some of the "talent" rather than some of the team. Because when I look at the opening day scorecard next year, I don't wanna have to see DUNCAN pencilled in the four spot.

Let me know what you think...

SIDENOTE: It's nice to see Yaddy finally get his due for his work behind the plate. Well done Gold Glove voters...