bobbyballgame: Mr Gordon,

A question about the Cardinals outfield if you would. I've been putting some combinations together and seeing how everyone fit lately, and I wanted your thoughts. It seems it's a foregone conclusion for many that Barton will be in AAA. The only way that I can see that happening is if Rasmus earns a starting job, and Duncan is a reserve. I don't see any way they would bring Colby north and have him sit on the bench.

So, to my question. Who are the five outfielders you see breaking camp, and who starts.

Thanks

Jeff Gordon: I would start Ludwick, Rasmus, Ankiel and have Duncan on the bench. I would keep Mather, too, but start him at 3B for the first month. Schumaker would start at 2B. I would keep Ryan and Thurston on the bench to cover the infield. In that scenario, there might be room for one more INF or OF until Glaus returns.

eternalramnation: Jeff,

Thank you for your answer. I don't know if you know the names that will be on the cap casualty list, or would want to share them even if you do, but will there be any names on it where'd a Rams fan would say "wow didn't see that one coming"?

Also any idea on who the Rams plan to tender before Friday?

Jeff Gordon: If both Holt and Pace go, that would probably surprise some.

RealityCheck: Thanks for answering my earlier question about the new 80 million salary Team DeWallet is going in with, since they are taking a 20% savings in team payroll, does that mean they are going to pass that savings on to the consumer and lower concessions and ticket prices 20%? Didnt think so. I guess I will be putting my name in the company fish bowl for baseball tickets this year and spending my concession money at local restaurants instead. I really just hate the lies that they say, if they plan on cutting payroll be open and honest about it and dont say that they are saving money to spend at the trade deadline and then dont make trades to save money for free agency and on and on and on.

Jeff Gordon: Again, if the team isn't good, don't come. That is fair enough. If the kids win, then I can't see why you would boycott the games over the payroll.

billyh072883: What is the status of Juan Encarnacion?

Jeff Gordon: He's done.

Cadynce1: Why wouldnt the Cardinals go with someone like Mark Grudzelianek as a possible emergency 2nd baseman If Skip doesnt work out?Thans a Bunch, JRB

Jeff Gordon: If Skip falls apart, that could still be an option.