Joe Strauss Visits With Bernie Miklasz On 1380 AM (Monday Tidbits)

• Chris Perez better in his last few outings, cortisone shot in his foot.
• Ryan Franklin closing would cause problems for the back end of the bullpen, younger guys need to pick it up.
• Perez has made some changes to his arm slot for his slider, Dave Duncan feeling better about him.
• Perez & Jason Motte both will have to grow into the role at the major league level, something Tony LaRussa doesn't like doing.
• Motte hasn't faced any major hitters, still throwing heat, needs to develop a secondary pitch.
• Skip Schumaker getting Albert Pujols almost run over, was a huge red flag.
• If Schumaker experiment doesn't work, replacement will come from within organization most likely Brendan Ryan.
• Schumaker having trouble with throw on double play, still not comfortable.
• Time is ticking on this experiment.
• Ryan can handle it defensively, but offensively is another question.
• Not enough time for David Freese to get back in third base competition unless Joe Mather falls apart before season opens.
• Ground ball pitching staff and a vulnerable infield, lot a pressure on Khalil Greene and Pujols.
• Chris Carpenter was not as good this last time as first time, mechanics off but feeling fine.
• Players to watch: Tyler Greene as a utility infielder.

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