December 9, 2008 The Tampa Tribune reports that the Rays and Cardinals are talking regarding a swap of outfielders and pitchers.
Our View:The Cardinals are believed to be shopping one of either Ryan Ludwick or Rick Ankiel while the Rays need to move a starter to open up a spot in the rotation for David Price.
December 3, 2008 Ryan Ludwick could still be dealt to the Braves, according to MLB.com.
Our View:The Cardinals are looking for help in the middle infield, so both Kelly Johnson and Yunel Escobar are options that the Cardinals would like to explore.
December 3, 2008 The Cardinals still have outfielder Ryan Ludwick on the trading block, according to Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View:Ludwick was a name bandied about when the Cardinals were thought to be in the thick of things for Matt Holliday. They have a surplus of outfielders and could use Ludwick to acquire other needs, such as in the middle infield or starting rotation.
November 13, 2008 Ryan Ludwick won a Silver Slugger award, according to the Associated Press.
Our View:Ludwick had a breakout season for the Cardinals in 2008. If he's not traded, he could produce similar numbers in 2009 by hitting either in front of or behind Albert Pujols, which he benefited from in 2008.
November 5, 2008 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that the Cardinals are not interested in parting with Ryan Ludwick for Braves' second baseman Kelly Johnson.
Our View:Ludwick was one of MLB's biggest surprises last season but with Colby Rasmus lurking in the minors there is a chance the Cardinals part with him or one of their other starting outfielders this offseason.
