Future Redbirds

This probably doesn’t merit it’s own post, but the Cardinals have signed Matt Ginter to a minor league contract. Ginter was a former 1st round draft pick of the White Sox in 1996. He once was regarded as one of the top Sox prospects, though many felt his future would be in the bullpen. He’s bounced around in the minors and has yet to spend a whole season in the big leagues. He was traded to the Mets for Timo Perez in ‘04 and to the Tigers for St. Charles native Steve Colyer in ‘05. He’s been a starter and a reliever throughout his career, he was used primarily as a starter last season for AAA Pawtucket and Indy. He posted a 4.34 ERA in 23 starts. He struck out 85 and walked 24 in 141 innings of work. Ginter turned 29 this past September.

Juan Richardson put together a nice season in AA last year, and is back for another go in Springfield. Richardson was once considered the best power hitter in the Phillies farm system behind Ryan Howard. He was to be Scott Rolen’s heir apparent at third through the 2002 season. The Phillies found out he was 2 years older then his reported age and he went from a bright, young hitter to someone they felt they needed to hurry. He battled shoulder labrum and ankle injuries and 2005 was his first full season since 2002. Signed as a minor league free agent in 2006, Richardson had his best season ever for Springfield. He hit .311/.382/.500 in 444 at bats, though he also struck out 114 times. Richardson plays excellent defense at third base but primarily played at 1st so Travis Hanson could gain experience. Richardson turned 28 this past January.

Righty pitcher Robert Ransom has also been signed to a minor league contact and will likely pitch out of the bullpen in AA. Once considered a potential draft steal of the Cubs, Ransom was promoted all the way to AA in his first season but went down with shoulder issues in ‘04. He had to undergo surgery to repair a frayed labrum and has yet to throw a pitch in anger since that first season. Ransom could join the Springfield club when health allows and could be a used in middle relief or possibly even in the rotation. Ransom will be 26 this August.