Cardinals Interested In Kobayashi

Although Masahide Kobayashi is a closer, a source tells me that the Cardinals are very interested in him as a reliever. Kobayashi hasn't said he was leaving, but was lights out in the playoffs. The Cardinals could probably sign him to a minor league deal, but I do not expect him to be all that successful in the MLB. In 2006, he was 6-2 with a 2.68 ERA and 34 SV. In 2007, now 33, went 2-7 with a 3.61 ERA and 27 SV. He could be like Hideki Okajima, which would be great, but I expect him to be in between Kei Igawa and former Mariner Shigetoshi Haswgawa, on a good day. Calls were not immediately returned from John Mozeliak, but I will keep you informed. The Cardinals are expected to look for upgrades in their rotation and outfield.