Why thank you weezie...I'll take this one...
Was there any conviction of cheating? Nope. When Kenny Rogers wiped the substance off his hand, what did he do? Pitch 7 more scoreless innings. Even LaRussa said it was no problem, so dunno what you're trying to say with that one.
Sure, our pitchers had some problems throwing it to first base. While you're dissing Verlander, keep in mind he was a rookie that season that won 17 games and helped carry us to the pennant and the World Series. And, he's been bo-beasting the major leagues ever since, including this year where he's a shoo-in for Cy Young and getting some mention for MVP. I'll take Verlander over any player in baseball (yes, player). And, I have a feeling that one of these years, Verlander will get the WS ring he seeks.
Now, please enjoy the final 21 games of the Cardinals' season. The good thing about being eliminated early is that they can make their tee times and reserve their fishing charters before most of the major leagues.