ANKIEL WATCH

Former pitcher Rick Ankiel, 25, is trying to make the Cardinals as an outfielder. How's he doing? SI's Ankielometer tells all.

After picking up just one hit in his first 20 at bats with Double A Springfield (Mo.), Ankiel was put on the DL with back spasms. When he came back in late May, he was sent to Class A Quad Cities (Iowa), where he's ripped seven homers in 22 games, including a grand slam on Sunday. The difference? His back feels better, thanks to a new workout regimen that doesn't just focus on his arm. "I've been able to train the last few months and prepare for playing a different position instead of pitching," he said. "Hopefully, I'll be able to minimize the injuries."

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AP (MANTLE)

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