Tony La Russa prepared his team for the MLB postseason with a preseason win over the Bears on Friday night. La Russa, considered one of the best managers in the game using unconventional managing tactics, lead his team to a 23-16 victory.
“I wasn’t happy with the way we played in the NLDS last season,” said La Russa. “I figured if my guys can win an NFL preseason game, we’d be ready to beat anybody in the post season, both mentally and physically.”
Rex Grossman led the Bears starting offense to its first scores in three preseason games, two field goals.
“We dominated their defense throughout the entire first half,” Grossman said. “Scott Rolen and Mark Mulder were blitzing a lot, I credit our offensive line for giving me the time to throw.”
Jim Edmonds started at quarterback for the Cards, throwing for a touchdown before giving way to backup Yadier Molina. Molina looked sharp, completing 15 of 21 passes and a touchdown.
The Cardinals win over the Bears on Friday night came on the same weekend in which they swept the Cubs.
“It’s hardly a big deal,” Cardinals wide receiver / second baseman Ronnie Belliard said. “We’re talking about the Bears and the Cubs. Need I say more?”
Number of the Night: 0
Touchdown passes thrown by Rex Grossman in three preseason games.
