Whenever my friends and I talk about potential offseason deals, the first name out of my mouth is Chris Duncan. Do we have a better asset in the trade market? The answer is a flat no. I do not deny his talent offensively, and his age makes him even more attractive to potential suitors in need of some pop. But do we honestly have a place to put him in the field? His "natural" position is first base, but I'd say that position is taken on the Cards. Anywhere else he's a liability. Why do people think I'm crazy to use him as trade bait in the American League for a top-tier starter? He can play first or designated hitter in the AL. I would think several GMs would be drooling at the chance to add him. Your thoughts?
-- Scott T., University City, Mo.
Well, I half-agree. I do think Duncan is one of the team's most attractive trade chips, but I don't think that he alone would fetch a front-of-the-rotation starting pitcher. A lot of the points are absolutely legitimate, though. It seems his best fit might be as a first baseman and/or DH.
On the other hand, the Cardinals are working within a budget -- not a tiny budget, but a budget all the same. And Duncan is one of very few offensive players on the roster who provides some sock and will not be expensive. So while he has value to other teams, I also think he has significant value to the Cardinals.
I was hearing rumors that So Taguchi might go back to Japan now that he won a World Series. Is that true or can we sign him to a two-year deal or keep him in St. Louis? He is a fan favorite by all accounts.
-- Nick H., St. Louis
He certainly is a fan favorite, but of course that doesn't drive decisions, nor should it. I think you guys would much rather have wins and championships than a team full of likeable guys.
But as for Taguchi specifically, I don't think either of those outcomes will happen. Taguchi told me the day after the World Series that he has no desire to return to playing in Japan. If he's not in St. Louis, he'll be somewhere else in the U.S.
At the same time, there's virtually no chance the Cardinals will give him a two-year deal. I think there's a better chance they will non-tender him next month, making him a free agent.
Yadier Molina has always been a very good defensive catcher. Why do you think he didn't win the Gold Glove this year?
-- Olivia P., Jarvisburg, N.C.
I think one main thing factored into it. First, Gold Gloves tend to function a bit like being named to the Supreme Court -- they often become lifetime appointments. Once you win a couple, you're likely to win a lot more. Additionally, it's certainly conceivable that the so-so performances of Cardinals pitchers in the regular season might have been counted against Molina.
With that said, once Molina wins his first, and it's likely to come soon, chances are he will win a lot more too. I'm of the opinion that Molina was the best defensive catcher in the league this year, but I don't think he'll have to wait long to be recognized as such.
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