http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20071003&content_id=2247373&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb

It's being described in an interesting fashion. Both sides (Jocketty and owner Bill DeWitt) maintain a mutual admiration and appreciation, but they were having some tension with respect to philosophy. Probably a good move for both sides: new scenery for Jocketty and a fresh face for the Cards' front office.

Just think, had the timing worked out a little better, Jocketty might have ended up as the GM of the Houston Astros. Makes me wonder if DeWitt waited until after the Astros and Pirates made their hires to make this change so that he didn't have to end up with Jocketty in the same division.

They have $83.8 million committed to 12 players for 2008.

They also have $45 million committed to Scott Rolen, Jim Edmonds, Carpenter, Encarnation, and Mulder who all either suck or are coming off serious injuries.

They also had one of the, if not the, worst starting rotation the MLB. Walt knew this team was gonna be bad, let another guy fix it.

Without the injuries, the Cardinal rotation isn't terrible.

There's talk that LaRussa and Jockety are package deal to the Mariners. They should be interesting.

Jocketty will probably be replaced internally. Will be interesting if La Russa leaves also. Who would replace him; Tony Pena? Would like Joe Girardi but have a hunch he is waiting for the Yankee job.

With LaRussa gone, we need to make a spot for #1 Ozzie Smith in the organization. I think he could be a great bench coach.

With that said, bring back Whitey Herzog!

Ozzie could be the Cards' next "goodwill ambassador" ala Stan Musial. However, with LaRussa being a 51 vs 49 chance to come back, Ozzie wouldnt acceed to anything; he is still bent out of shape for LaRussa's lack of proper respect in the past.

[This message has been edited by SA Ag (edited 10/16/2007 5:21a).]