Punto is a Cardinal

[henks]

Nick Punto(notes) has agreed to a $750,000, one-year contract with the St. Louis Cardinals, giving them insurance for rehabbing third baseman David Freese(notes). The 33-year-old Punto, a switch-hitter, was the Minnesota Twins’ opening day third baseman last year and also played shortstop and second base. He batted .238 in 88 games and had no errors at third, but battled hamstring injuries that twice landed him on the 15-day disabled list.

This is sort of surprising. He was due $5 mil from the Twins this year, which I don't think he was worth. Twins instead paid him a $500k buyout to get him out of the final year on his contract. Gardy loves Punto's work ethic, which makes me wonder why they didn't try to work something out. Either way, this solidifies a roster spot for Tolbert/Casilla.

[Kingdom]

It's that kind of ethic, and versatility that LaRussa likes. Even if they can't hit.

[catman]

Nick is a decent fielding, light hitting utility guy that can play nearly anywhere. He is definitely not worth the $5MM that the option would have called for. The Cardinals got a pretty good deal here.

[Saber]

Nick is a decent fielding, light hitting utility guy that can play nearly anywhere.

Good thing the Cards finally got one of those!

[mntwinsfan]

Punto cant hit. He was a guy you liked in late innings for his glove. Tolbert will make the club and see playing time. Another cost cutting move for the Twins.