The recent turn of events with former Cardinals utility player Scott Spiezio is just one more illustration as to how dependence on addictive substances can cause folks to make decisions that simply defy all reason.

Spiezio (right) was already on thin ice with the Cardinals after finishing a turn in treatment last year for substance abuse. And remember, this is an organization that has had plenty of problems with booze and driving -- with the death of relief pitcher Josh Hancock, who was killed when he drove into a truck while under the influence and manager Tony LaRussa in that awkward traffic stop a year ago in Florida where police found him asleep at the wheel at a traffic light.

Earlier this week, a warrant was issued for Spiezio's arrest as a result of an auto accident that may have involved alcohol in late December where he is also accused of fleeing the scene and then  assaulting a neighbor.

So yesterday, the Cardinals essentially said enough is enough and cut him loose.  He still may get the $2.5 million the Cards owe him for 2008 and another $100,000 for an option they could have exercised next year.  And it's not as if Spiezio is a youngster; he's 35.  If he were using his head, he'd be milking every season for all it was worth.  But that's the point. When you're in the grip of booze or drugs, logic isn't part of the equation.

Photo credit: Elaine Thompson/AP taken for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer