EYE ON
Rick Ankiel, OF, St. Louis Cardinals
Background: Rick Ankiel is a walking movie script. He was the nation’s top high school player. He rocketed through the minor leagues, making his major-league debut in 1999. He won 11 games in 2000, but there were cracks in the facade. He was immature and forced to deal with heavy issues when his dad was sent to prison. The throes of throws ruined him as a pitcher — it’s often called Steve Blass disease or the yips. He couldn’t throw a strike. In 2005, he retired as a pitcher and began his minor-league career over as an outfielder. He reached the big leagues last season, pulling off a Babe Ruthian feat. Admission of human growth hormone while recovering from surgeries took some luster off his story, but his journey remains remarkable.
What’s up: Ankiel made possibly the greatest throw ever at Coors Field last Tuesday, erasing Omar Quintanilla as he tried to stretch a double into a triple. “I let the big dog eat,” Ankiel told me of his 330-foot dart to third baseman Troy Glaus. Larry Walker, the author of many missiles himself, couldn’t believe it. “He looked like he was 3-foot-6 from where we were on the bench. All I could do was laugh. It was amazing,” Walker said. Added second baseman Aaron Miles: “I have never seen anything like that, and I probably won’t again.”
What’s next: Ankiel has developed into a steady force in the Cardinals’ lineup, hitting anywhere from cleanup to sixth. He has legitimate 30-home run power.
Renck’s take: Manager Tony La Russa put it best: “Everyone kept thinking that Rick was a gimmick. I told them, just go watch him, his athleticism, his arm, his swing.” There’s no gimmick to Ankiel. This is just jaw-dropping talent. With a strong wife at home, An- kiel seems at peace. Leaving pitching liberated him. Most impressive about Ankiel is his desire. The second you think he’s a novelty act, watch his intensity. This guy really competes, fitting in perfectly with a Cardinals team that is littered with grinders.
AT ISSUE
Collusion complaints ring hollow with Bonds
What: The players association has requested that the commissioner’s office investigate the lack of offers for free agent Barry Bonds, stopping short of filing a collusion grievance.
When: As of last week, Jeff Borris, Bonds’ agent, had not received an offer for his seven-time MVP client. Given the myriad teams Bonds could help and the plethora of players with inferior skills employed, the union wants some answers.
Background: Bonds hit .276 with 28 home runs and 66 RBIs last season. Yet besides Tampa Bay and St. Louis discussing the issue internally, no team has said peep about the game’s all-time home run leader. Detroit would make sense — the Tigers recently designated Jacque Jones for assignment — save for the fact Gary Sheffield and Bonds get along about as well as Barbara Walters and Star Jones.
Renck’s take: With Bonds, it isn’t collusion. It’s common sense. The guy brings more baggage into a clubhouse than Samsonite. Though he improved in recent seasons, particularly in his dealings with Todd Greene and Steve Finley, Bonds has never been a great teammate. He’s high maintenance. That works when you’re a superstar. Bonds is no longer that. He’s a good offensive player who becomes a liability the moment he leaves the batter’s box. Besides, he was indicted in November on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice in the BALCO case. The trial isn’t expected to start until 2009, but it’s hard to find an organization that would welcome that kind of lingering black cloud.
Last season, his pursuit of Hank Aaron’s home run record brought in revenue. This season, Bonds would just bring a headache.
THREE UP
1. Twins: No Santana, no Liriano, no offense? No problem.
2. Red Sox: David Ortiz’s slow start seems long ago.
3. Rangers: Nice two-week push saving Ron Washington’s job.
THREE DOWN
1. Mariners: Richie Sexson is a better fighter than a hitter.
2. Padres: Locals have labeled them hitless wonders.
3. Brewers: Eric Gagne has blown more saves than “Baywatch” cast.
