As much as most of us don't like to accept it. it is unlikely to me that Luis will be back next season. He is going to command too much money. He isn't the best value for a small market team.

 

I have considered who might replace him, especially since the organization isn't particulary deep in middle infielders (anymore). It won't be Alomar. I'm guessing it will be somebody you don't think about much, who could do the job, and contribute on offense. The white sox have a guy who had a cup of coffee with them this season by the name of Aaron Miles, who might be ready. Do the Sox need a 1st baseman, or right fielder?

Of the free agents available you might see somebody like Chris Gomez get some attention. He is very affordable, and a veteran.

However, the best deal I see in the free agent market for 2nd baseman is Eric Young. He could be had for under 2 mil, and is still a very good player, and hit 15 HRs last season. He would fill that 2 hole quite nicely.

dont the Cardinals need a 1st baseman??..well how about we trade Derek Lee to St.Louis for Bo Hart and cash

i wouldn't count on those 15 homers from Eric Young. Prior to last year he'd never hit more than 8. I think he's mediocre at best. The guy's going to be 37 and has never been great defensively anyway.

 

chris gomez? ugh...

dont the Cardinals need a 1st baseman??..well how about we trade Derek Lee to St.Louis for Bo Hart and cash

Lee would get MUCH more than just Hart and a little cash.

 

Shop him elsewhere. Los Angeles and San Fran both need 1B and have much more to offer.

I would definately look at trading with L.A.

Whether it's Lee or someone else.