December 10, 2008 Fox Sports reports that the Cardinals have offered center fielder Rick Ankiel and a prospect for closer J.J. Putz.
Our View:Ankiel slugged 25 home runs in 413 at-bats last season, but with three left-handed hitting outfielders, the Cardinals are looking to address their biggest need with their biggest supply.
December 10, 2008 The Rays are interested in the Cardinals' Rick Ankiel, according to the Hot Stove Blog on MLB.com.
Our View:The Cardinals covet starting pitchers, and may be willing to part with Ankiel in exchange for Andy Sonnanstine or Edwin Jackson, both of which are available. Ankiel crushed 25 homers in 2008, and his power numbers could benefit while playing his home games at hitter-friendly Tropicana Field.
December 9, 2008 The New York Post reports that The New York Yankees have been among at least five teams looking into obtaining Rick Ankiel.
Our View:The left-handed hitter slugged 25 home runs in just 413 at-bats last year during an injury-disrupted season. He is one year removed from free agency and as a Scott Boras client almost certainly will test the market. However, he should make only about $3 million as an arbitration-eligible player in 2009.
December 9, 2008 Fox Sports reports that the Cardinals and Braves were unable to complete a deal that would have involved Rick Ankiel after the Cards insisted Mike Gonzalez be included.
Our View:In addition to talking to Atlanta about outfielder Rick Ankiel, the Cardinals have talked to Philadelphia. Left-handed relief pitching remains at the top of St. Louis' wishlist and with Colby Rasmus waiting in the wings, they may be ready to move one of their breakout outfielders.
December 8, 2008 Rick Ankiel is believed to be on the Braves' radar, according to the Hot Stove Blog on MLB.com.
Our View:The Braves covet a power-hitting outfielder, and Ankiel fits the bill as he blasted 25 homers over 120 games with St. Louis in 2008. It is uncertain what the Braves would have to give up to acquire Ankiel, but Kelly Johnson and Yunel Escobar would certainly be coveted by the Cards.
