Tim provided updates on all six NL Central teams earlier in the day, but plenty more news is emerging from baseball's biggest division. Here's the latest, including a follow-up on Jose Ascanio…
- Though the Cardinals probably wish that Albert Pujols and Cubs GM Jim Hendry hadn’t exchanged a heavily scrutinized public hug, they aren’t overly concerned with it, according to ESPN.com’s Buster Olney (on Twitter).
- The Pirates recalled Ascanio and placed Michael Crotta on the DL with right elbow inflammation, according to Colin Dunlap of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (on Twitter). The team had to decide whether to add Ascanio to the roster or risk losing him to another team, since he's out of options.
- As MLB.com's Brian McTaggart explains, the Astros will have to clear up roster space when Jeff Keppinger returns from the disabled list. Bill Hall could slide into a utility role, or the Astros could part ways with him. Including the buyout on next year’s mutual option, about $2.5MM remains on Hall’s deal.
Anyone that has ever been to batting practice before a game knows that all players, coaches, and whoever else is on the field all go around hugging, shaking hands etc. I don’t like that it goes on, but the way a greeting before a game has gotten so much attention is laughable.
If I was a cards fan I would say that also. Hendry is just showing a little love for 1 of the best players in the game ,and that they would respect and deeply admire him in chicago. Its not like hendry was trying to disrespect the cards org. by telling albert we will make you the highest paid player in mlb history while hugging if you sign here. He may have just been fanning the flame of pujols and the chicago cubs union to further create a rift bettween the cards and their best but not highest paid player #5.
Yes, and Friday when he gives Dusty Baker a hug maybe we can have 3 posts on MLBTR about a potential 3rd base role with the Reds. Then after that, the Phillies! Yes, we can start up the Howard for Pujols rumors again. After he talks to Halladay and Lee it will no doubt mean he would love to play for the Phils. I’m thinking TMZ would dig these rumors.
lol
just messin witch ya
It’s like that in every sport too.
All the players are doing is saying good luck to each other