Ex-Cardinals Watch 6-26 & 6-27-08: Calero Released, Eckstein On The Trading Block, Tomko Finds New Home, Ponson Called Up, Branyan Works On Hitting

Kiko Calero(Free Agent):
Released by the Athletics after being designated for an assignment last week.

David Eckstein(Blue Jays):
Rumors are swirling Eckstein could be on the trading block.

Russell Branyan(Brewers):
A couple of times a week, one of Russell Branyan's teammates will put down his PSP or his iPhone -- gifts from the owner over the last couple of years -- and peer at Branyan sitting at a laptop computer in the training room, playing what looks like an old school arcade game. Think 1982's Q*bert, but not as high-tech.
Branyan's Batting 'Edge' Computer-Aided

Joe Torre(Dodgers):
Joe Torre said he missed a phone call from Colorado Rockies manager Clint Hurdle, presumably about the coaching spot on the National League All-Star team that opened with the dismissal of Willie Randolph by the Mets.
Torre Misses Hurdle's Call

Brett Tomko(Padres):
After he fired his agent in the spring, Brett Tomko had to fend for himself when looking for a prospective team to pitch for after being designated for assignment by the Kansas City Royals this month.
Tomko Returns To Padres For Third Time

Coco Crisp(RedSox):
The verdict is in regarding the appeal of Red Sox center fielder Coco Crisp's suspension. Crisp, who held a conference call with Major League Baseball officials earlier this week, was able to knock two games off the original seven-game suspension.
Crisp's Suspension Down To Five Games

Clint Hurdle(Rockies):
With the exception of having to work an evening shift, Friday was a dream sports vacation for Rockies manager Clint Hurdle.
Hurdle Happy To Be Back In Michigan

Sidney Ponson(Yankees):
The Yankees team that played the Mets in the doubleheader nightcap at Shea Stadium looked different than the one at Yankee Stadium hours earlier.
Matsui To D.L. As Yankees Reshuffle Roster

The Yankees didn't have much time to feel the sting of Friday afternoon's loss to the Mets. A sense of embarrassment flowed through the clubhouse after their crosstown rivals delivered a 15-run performance in front of the Bomber's home crowd.
Ponson, Yankees Hit Back In Round 2