Mike: Greetings Gordo -

I'd like to know your thoughts on the middle infield situation. Now that Aaron Miles is back, does this mean that Brendan Ryan starts the year in Memphis? I see only three spots available with Izturis, Kennedy, Miles, Ryan, and Jimenz competing. Is it possible that Izturis pulls a Spivey, and doesn't make the club? Thanks!

Mike from Miami, FL

Jeff Gordon: Anything is possible. Izturis has a solid defensive reputation, so I believe he stays. Jiminez is the longshot. Miles offers Kennedy insurance; he could play a lot if Kennedy is really finished. Ryan's versatility will make him a strong candidate -- but if both Izturis and Kennedy hit well enough to start, he could go back to Memphis as the full-time shortstop.

Mozeliak, appropriately, created lots of competition here.

Chris: Hey Gordo,
I haven't read anything recently but I was wondering if there was more than just the LaRussa/Rolen feud going on in the clubhouse. Wasn't there some bad blood between Pujols and Rolen at one time? Did that all go away or is that another reason to add to the list of why Rolen had to go?

Thanks,
Chris

Jeff Gordon: Scott wasn't exactly a ray of sunshine. And his corner of the clubhouse was known for its cynicism, as has been pointed out elsewhere in STLToday.com. And this IS Albert's team. And Scott did wonder if there was one set of rules for Albert and another for other players. But the big issue was with La Russa, who really called Scott out at the winter meetings.

Dave Ward: Just heard the news about Rolen-Glaus. I guess it makes sense, but I must admit when Rolen came to StL, it seemed a perfect match and that he would retire here. He seemed to be a classic Cards-type player, and I hoped he'd complete a prolonged, HOF-type career here. Do you think that if he regains his offensive form that he would end up making the Hall? I sure hope he'd wear a Cards cap for induction....

Jeff Gordon: Interesting question. His Gold Glove collection puts him in the discussion, but his offensive erosion makes him an unlikely candidate. He would have to rebound with four or five HUGE seasons to be considered on the better players of his era.

Glenn: Hey Gordo!
Talk about earning your stripes, "Johhny Mo" scores big marks if this trade for Glaus and Rolen goes through. Not willing to "give away" the oft injured 3rd baseman, Mo stuck to his guns and got definite value back - and the big right handed bat this organization desperately needed. Yes, Glaus is somewhat of a risk. But even the most ardent Rolen fan would have to admit Rolen represents a much much higher risk.
My hope now is that Mo will focus totally on landing another SP. The guy I had hoped he would land (Jason Jennings) is just about ready to get "stupid money" from Texas. But I would have to beleive that if the Cards can get another decent arm they may well surprise in the weak central division. Even during this time of transition St. Louis could still surprise.

Jeff Gordon: The batting order is much more imposing with Pujols backed by Glaus, yes. And one more starting pitcher would change the look of the rotation. With the Rolen matter apparently resolved, it ought to be easier to make one more move . . . if the Cards are so inclined.

Glenn Turner: The Rolen deal makes us a liitle better on offense and worse on defense. However, we are rid of Rolen's three year deal which will allow for greater pay-roll flexibility. All in all a solid move given the LaRussa Rolen situation.

Will any of our young 3b prospects be ready in 2009? We can resign Glaus if not right?

Jeff Gordon: Freese and Craig are good hitters -- and we'll know by '09 if they have big league potential. The Cards will also know if Glaus is worth further investment.