Chris Carpenter came down with a nerve/shoulder problem early in Cardinals camp. There's no truth to the rumor that he tagged Adam Wainwright, WWE-style, before entering the trainer's room. The Cards were rightfully concerned that Carpenter might be gone for a long, long time. It'd be tough for the Cardinals to succeed without both of their aces, especially in the playoffs. This year, for sure.

But via Tim McKernan, we have an update from Cards GM John Mozeliak:

Mo: If Carpenter had to pitch today, he could pitch. But, he's just not comfortable. I'm optimistic that sometime in May he'll be ready.

— Tim McKernan (@tmckernan) March 30, 2012

Well, I'm guessing that's referring to John Mozeliak. Could be Mariano Rivera weighing in. Or Mo Vaughn! But probably Mozeliak.

It's worth remembering that Carpenter was running on fumes and gumption oil for the last month of the season, and that extra month would be hard on every pitcher. An older, somewhat-dinged pitcher like Carpenter even more so.