One of the best parts about this time of year is watching guys try to earn spots on the big league club. So let's turn our attention to the Cardinals' outfield. As the spring progresses, we're starting to see a few more options emerge.

I would assume that Rick Ankiel is a lock. He's batting .313 this spring, and he put up impressive numbers before falling into a big-time slump last season. He's got a rocket arm and seems destined to start.

I've got to think that Chris Duncan will also be a starter. He's having a horrible spring, batting a measly .083. But he's got pop from the left side, and that's something the Cardinals can use.

If Ankiel and Duncan are locks, who would be the No. 3 outfielder? Don't laugh too hard, but Joe Mather is putting together an impressive spring. He's batting .368 with a homer in eight games. A long shot? Sure. But who knows.

Skip Schumaker is hitting well this spring, boasting a .444 batting average. I've got to think he's going to be a bench player, but who knows. I wouldn't feel comfortable counting on him to drive in runs.

That brings us to my guy for the final outfield spot -- Ryan Ludwick. He's a workhorse who always will have my support. He's batting .294 this spring. He brings more power than Schumaker and gosh darn it, he's a blog favorite. He's got to be a starter.

Now it's your turn. Who do you want starting in the outfield for the Cardinals? Do you think Duncan's got a spot locked up? Share your thoughts.

Another Cardinals note -- the AP reported that the Cardinals were one of the teams taking a look at Sidney Ponson on Thursday. Please, oh please, avoid that train wreck. He would be the second coming of Seven-run Kip.

Throne of Honor

We've got ourselves another first-time winner as flyer1a came up with the correct answer. Well done on earning your first seat atop the Throne. Congrats. You know your SLU men's basketball.

Next question, please: What was the last team to win the OVC tournament title that wasn't Southeast Missouri State?

Reserved Parking

There wasn't anything going on locally, so we'll leave the spot open for all you loyal readers out there. Enjoy the up-front parking, especially with all the snow we're supposed to get.

Kariya Kounter -- 15G, 37A

The Blues are entering dangerous territory here. They are eight points behind Nashville, which is eighth in the Western Conference. The Blues only have 15 games left, so they need to start making up ground in a hurry if they're going to reach the playoffs.

The GREAT Coundown

It's 24 days until the Chicago Cubs open their season against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field. It's also 24 days until the St. Louis Cardinals host the Colorado Rockies at Busch Stadium.

Today's Can't Miss

You're going to need two radios to keep up on the action. One for the Notre Dame boys basketball team's 12:20 p.m. game against Lincoln Prep, and one for the Southeast Missouri State women's game against Eastern Illinois at noon. Good stuff.