January 4, 2009 Chris Carpenter might be considered for closing by Cardinals manager Tony La Russa if he's not healthy enough to start in 2009, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View:The Cardinals missed out on Brian Fuentes, who they would've liked to close, and now will likely have to look at internal options. La Russa is reluctant to hand the job to youngsters Chris Perez or Jason Motte, so Carpenter could work even though he'd be more productive as a starter.
December 5, 2008 The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Chris Carpenter's troublesome nerve in his right shoulder has shown enough growth and improvement that the club is comfortable with him starting his throwing program in mid- to late January. The program should have him ready to go for spring training.
Our View:Carpenter has thrown in five games over the past two seasons, but the result of these tests indicate that he could be ready to make an impact come opening day. Temper your expectations though as it has been a long time since he has made a lasting impact. In 15.1 innings of work last year, he had a 1.76 ERA and seven strikeouts.
November 4, 2008 2005 Cy Young award winner Chris Carpenter underwent nerve surgery Tuesday morning. The procedure was similar to Albert Pujols' that he underwent last month, according to the St. Louis Post Dispatch.
Our View:Carpenter had the ulnar collateral nerve near his right elbow transported, a fairly common follow-up for pitchers who have required elbow ligament replacement as Carpenter did in July 2007. Tuesday's procedure requires a six-week shutdown and does not jeopardize Carpenter’s availability for spring training
October 23, 2008 Chris Carpenter will have a sequence of nerve conduction tests next month to help better determine his condtion for next season, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View:Carpenter suffered from a nerve condition at the end of the 2004 season, as well, which caused him to miss the playoffs that year. Recent tests showed some improvement, but a November exam will be more telling.
October 3, 2008 Cardinals starter Chris Carpenter did not have surgery to deal with the nerve problem in his shoulder because it could have affected his day-to-day lifestyle, possibly limiting the use of his right arm in the future, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "There was a risk of significant complications," said St. Louis team doctor George Paletta.
Our View:Carpenter and other doctors believe the condition will heal with rest. He will be an extremely risky pick for fantasy owners next season.
