Cardinals didn't add a Woody this year

dwilson

In 1998, Gregory Scott Williams had one of his better seasons as a San Diego Padre. He went 10-8 with a 3.75 ERA -- his best numbers so far as a professional. Then he went to the St. Louis Cardinals in 2001.

"Woody" Williams is 30-9 with a 2.76 ERA with the Cardinals after he was acquired through waivers for a disgruntled, underachieving Ray Lankford.

The change of atmosphere, better coaching, or simply a different team might have changed Williams' career. Who knows what turned Woody's career around -- it certainly wasn't the trade deadline.

He's helped the Cards through two pennant races (and he's working on number three) and has slid into the spot of ace on the staff.

The lack of movement by the Cardinals at the trade deadline won't alter the Cardinals' run at the playoffs this year. While the Cards could have used a big right-hander like Sidney Ponson, there wasn't a quality starter available. And it's foolish to make a trade just for the sake of making a trade.

So the Cardinals stood firm and will look to improve their team internally. And with the recent surge by Jeff Fassero, who knows? The Cards just might make the playoffs, and then anything can happen.

Besides, you never know what might fall in your lap.

Here's what is falling into your lap, in your week ahead:

Today

The Cardinals begin a six-game home stand, including the Braves over the weekend. Dontrelle Willis is scheduled to throw tonight for the Marlins at 7:10 p.m.

Wednesday

The Illinois American Legion State tournament will be played Wednesday through Saturday at GMC Stadium in Sauget, Ill. Games will be played 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Thursday

As part of the IRL Fan Experience and to promote the Emerson 250 this weekend at Gateway International Raceway, .38 Special will perform a free concert at the Casino Queen at 8 p.m. IRL drivers will be at the festival on Thursday to meet fans.

Friday

If you'd rather head south for the weekend, you can catch plenty of good racing down there as well. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series is in Nashville for the Federated Auto Parts 200 this weekend. Driver introductions are at 7:30 p.m., then the green flag drops under the lights at 8. For tickets call 1-866-RACE-TIX.

The IRL Fan Experience continues Friday at Kiener Plaza in downtown St. Louis. Fans going to Busch Stadium for the Cards game can stop in and enjoy the festivities, including music and IRL drivers. The game will be Indy Racing Night with the Cardinals and all fans will receive coupons toward tickets to Sunday's race.

Saturday

The spectator gates open at 10 a.m., with practice sessions beginning at 11 for the Emerson 250 at Gateway International Raceway. You can get your first look at the track action that St. Louis has been anticipating all week. Tickets? 1-866-35-SPEED.

Sunday

The parking lots open at 7:30 a.m., get there early because it's going to be a race just to find a parking spot. The final practice session begins at 10 for the 2 p.m., Emerson 250.

David Wilson is a senior at Central High School and a columnist for the Southeast Missourian.