La Russa unsure of McGwire

Associated Press

ST. LOUIS

Age was no factor in 66-year-old Tony La Russa’s decision to return for a 16th season as St. Louis Cardinals manager. Watching the postseason on TV only reinforces his feeling that there is still “fire in the gut.”

“I’m ready to start spring training tomorrow,” La Russa said Tuesday night. “I love the game and this organization is the place to be.

“I know how lucky I am and we have the makings of a really good club, which could be really exciting next year. What more do you want?”

But he’s not sure yet whether hitting coach Mark McGwire, a father of five torn by love of baseball and family responsibility, will also be back. The Cardinals hope to get an answer from Big Mac in the next few days or so.

“He’s having a real tussle trying to figure out coach, father,” La Russa said. “We’ll see which way he goes. But he’ll definitely be offered a chance to come back.

“I know the organization is sensitive to what he’s going through.”

First base coach Dave McKay also might not be back for a similar reason. McKay has three grandchildren on the West Coast.

General manager John Mozeliak hoped to have deals finalized for the coaching staff finalized within a week. A new bullpen coach will be promoted from the farm system.