Cal

Eldred

Eldred could have earned himself some innings with this performance, but he has no fantasy value.

If acquired, Urbina would take over as Jason Isringhausen’s setup man and would also provide valuable insurance. However, the Cardinals are longshots to get Urbina. They would want the Rangers to pick up much of his salary and don’t have a lot of talent in their minor league system.

Manager Tony La Russa said Eldred could be back on Wednesday.

Eldred isn’t going to be used in crucial situation any time soon. If he continues to struggle, the Cardinals could place him on the DL and try to turn him back into a starter during a lengthy rehab assignment.

Eldred didn’t get into tonight’s game.

Eldred has posted ERAs of 3.74 and 3.76 since coming back in 2003. His performance is likely to drop off at some point, but that’s just a good reason not to give him a multiyear deal.

Eldred must have really wanted to stay with the Cardinals. He’s taking a $300,000 paycut after amassing a 3.76 ERA in 67 innings last season.

Eldred did struggle, however. He gave up three hits and walked a batter, and loaded the bases in the ninth before getting Jeff Bagwell to ground into a game-ending double play. Eldred is putting up some good fantasy numbers right now, but he’ll likely become another in the long line of former closers this season.

Jeff Fassero relieved Eldred and earned his second save with a scoreless 10th. Eldred gave up just one run in the blown save, so he’ll probably remain the Cardinals’ primary closer.

We’ll assume that this means he was ill, not that his arm was sore. Consider Eldred day-to-day.