Sun Mar 08, 2015 9:26 pm
CARDS NEW GM HITS GROUND RUNNING - CUTS MUSIAL
St. Louis (AP) In what he described as a numbers issue, new Cardinals GM Paul Wootten today cut veteran outfielder and surefire Hall of Famer Stan Musial. Musial, 41, has been a fixture in the Cardinals lineup since 1942.
In making the announcement today, Wootten praised Musial's selfless play and public service to the St. Louis community. "Stan has been the Babe Ruth of St. Louis," Wootten said. "He's a pillar of our community, so much so that I call him 'Stan the Man.' It's pretty catchy, don't you think?"
Musial, a decorated World War II veteran, had cleaned out his locker before teammates arrived at the Cardinals' spring training site. Seeing the empty locker drew strong comments from a number of teammates.
"Somebody's gonna pay for this," ace Bob Gibson said. "I'm gonna find the guy responsible and kick his #$%.
Julian Javier spoke through tears. "He was like a papa to me. I even plan on naming my son after him in a couple years."
Starting pitcher Ernie Broglio went so far as to ask for a trade. "Get me out of here," Broglio said through clenched teeth. "Even if you have to trade me to the Cubs!"
GM Wootten, speaking on the condition that his exact location not be disclosed, said it was an issue of too many players. "We can't keep everybody, and Stan was starting to slow down. He's been playing some first base, but Bill White will be there. There wasn't much else I could do. I'm certain most St. Louisans will understand."
Speaking of St. Louisans, there is a craft making class at the Ladies of Sorrows Church tomorrow at noon. Those attending are encouraged to bring concrete and shoe molds in size 10. After the meeting the group will make their way to the ballpark for a special visit with GM Wootten, after which they'll convene on the banks of the Mississippi for refreshments and swimming lessons.
