Michael

Barrett

Brian Schneider has been carrying the load behind the plate, and hit a three-run home run Sunday. Barrett should be able to return sometime this week, but if you have a better option, stick with it.

Barrett was given one more day of rest yesterday in order to face left-handed starters in back-to-back games today and Wednesday.

Once Barrett is signed, Damian Miller will be sent to the A’s and take over as their starting catcher.

Expect Michael Barrett to get most of the starts whenever anyone else is pitching.

It’s possible that he’ll be sent to the Cubs for Damian Miller. Less likely is that he would be involved in Oakland’s pursuit of Jason Kendall. The A’s gave up left-handed relief prospect Brett Price to acquire Barrett and would send the Expos another prospect if they sign him.

''Somebody’s got to hit eighth,’' Baker said. ''I think he’s better [for the job] than (Alex Gonzalez) because he’s a better breaking-ball hitter than Gonzo’’ and ''he gets my pitcher to the plate.’'

Brian Schneider is starting today. With Edwards Guzman on the roster, the Expos won’t call up a catcher unless Barrett needs to go on the DL.

Barrett can throw and run, but he can’t catch. His status is up in the air, but he’s expected to play again this season.

Barrett could be activated and used as a pinch-hitter next week. He may not be ready to catch until the middle of the month.

This after he reached base four times yesterday. Barrett was hitting sixth with Corey Patterson in the eighth spot today against Jason Marquis. In part because it’s usually happened when the Cubs are facing lefties, Barrett has been terrific when batting fifth or sixth this season. Manager Dusty Baker should hit him there more often.