Dear Edwin,

You know the saying “you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone”? Given as well traveled as you are around the major leagues, I’m sure you do know it.

But that’s basically how I feel about you — even though I did appreciate your contributions as a Cardinal. It’s just that I always figured, given the starting pitching situation moving forward, St. Louis was just another temporary stop for you. And it certainly seems like that will be the case. Maybe that’s why I didn’t get as invested in you as I could have.

When you arrived, I wasn’t sure what to think. I’d read about your performances until then in 2011, but still always most remembered you for that time early in 2010 when you hit Chris Carpenter. (What can I say? He’s my true Cardinals love. So those who cause trouble when he’s involved are going to stand out.)

Your first game as a Cardinal gave me confidence, especially since you beat the Cubs. That second game, when you gave up eight runs and four homers to the Brewers? Not so much. After that, though, you did what you were supposed to: provided a steady force in the rotation, which was a huge contribution from late August on. Plus you were pretty good with the bat too — a nice bonus.

In October, it was more of the same. You came through in the must-win Game Four of the division series, settling in after a rough first inning that had all of us panicking — it ended up being a great outing for you. In the NLCS, you weren’t necessarily your best but the Cards won both your starts. It was tough luck being matched up against Derek Holland in the World Series.

Now here you are, World Series champion — and free agent. And someone I sadly overlooked far too often in the September and October rush of great performances.

Since this is a love letter, after all, I have to add that you also brought a hotness to the team — of which there can never be too much. So, since you’re leaving, I’m sad for what we’ll be missing out on in St. Louis both on and off the field. It’s really too bad you didn’t throw your no-hitter as a Cardinal. The Shredder could have done some nice work.

Good-bye, Edwin, and good luck with your new team … depending on who it is.

Love,
Chris



Christine Coleman is the senior St. Louis Cardinals reporter for Aaron Miles’ Fastball. Follow her on Twitter, @CColeman802, or email aaronmilesfastball@gmail.com. Also follow @AMilesFastball for the latest updates.