So

Taguchi

Yes, things are that bad in the Cardinal farm system. Taguchi, who hit .285-3-25, was eligible for the award because he had not spent a total of 45 days on the Cardinals roster before Sept. 1 in any previous season. One could argue catcher Yadier Molina as a better choice, despite lower stat totals.

Taguchi has finally figured out what it is that manager Tony La Russa wants to see. He might make the team, but he’s not going to have any fantasy value.

Taguchi has been getting more playing time with Reggie Sanders and Larry Walker out and has responded by batting .460 with seven doubles, two homers, and four steals in 50 at-bats this month. He’ll probably get a lot of playing time over John Rodriguez and John Mabry in left field after Larry Walker returns.

Taguchi was making just his third start in the last two weeks, as John Rodriguez and Scott Spiezio continue to receive additional playing time in the outfield. With a .260/.303/.340 line in 100 at-bats, he doesn’t have much value in NL-only leagues right now.

A right-hander likely would have had a better chance at the liner, which nearly hit Gallo on it’s way to the outfield. Taguchi has 11 hits in his last 23 at-bats, so he’ll be getting more playing time in left field.

We don’t like it. Taguchi may have a defensive advantage over Sanders, but that’s wasted in left field in Fenway. Better to start Sanders in left and use John Mabry as a DH.

Taguchi won’t play much at all now that the Cardinals have Larry Walker. He certainly won’t have any fantasy value.

Taguchi is starting in left field tonight, but he’s not going to get much playing time for the Cardinals. Don’t pick him up.

Taguchi is getting picked over Kerry Robinson. He shouldn’t have any fantasy value.

The home runs were his ninth and 10th in 384 career at-bats. He’s been a decent reserve for the Cardinals this year, but the club could use a better fourth outfielder.