Gabriel to Snow: Gordo, with NFL salaries getting beyond stupid in their scale, I am wondering why the Rams are signing players that have potential upside to one year deals. If Romberg for instance, plays well in 08, we can't trade him in 09 & we can't play him without a major salary increase. If he stinks, we lose, if he plays well we pay or lose him. Does this 1 yr stuff have anything to do with the potential for a new CBA in the near future? If not, I don't get not securing rights to players who are inexpensive coming off injury or down years for 2 or 3 years when you don't have to risk huge guarantees. They can always be cut. What am I missing here?

Jeff Gordon: Interesting question. To give a multi-year deal, a team has to offer some guaranteed dough in the form of a bonus. That bonus has cap implications. The Rams only wanted to give Chillar a one-year deal. The Packers were willing to invest some cap dollars in him with a two-year deal. As for Romberg, I suppose the Rams view him as a stopgap player. In any given year, the average NFL team turns over at least a third of its players -- so many guys fall in that category.

Mark: Hey Jeff

As Spygate drags on, I have to wonder if the tenuous relationship with the Georgia-led Rams and the NFL over the years is effecting the slowness of the, er, investigation. Do you think the NFL would be responding to this controversy differently if it involved one of the old-guard, good-ol-boy teams like the Steelers or Giants? I'm convinced that the fact that the Rams might have been the primary victim here has not helped move this case along.

Jeff Gordon: The NFL will never bend over backward to help the Rams, that's for sure. But part of this must be the overall desire to let the controversy settle down a bit. The further we get into the off-season, the easier it will be for the NFL to minimize its PR hit if this Walsh character has really embarrassing stuff.

Gabriel to Snow: Gordo, any chance we re-work the contract of James Hall if we fail to bolster the end position? Also, Devaney made some comments that seem to indicate Browns corner spot will be left to Wade & Bartell if Fakir can't go. Devaney seems to have a little more confidence in Wade than most. How comfortable should we be with Maklin, Bartell & Wade if Brown is suspended?

Jeff Gordon: Wade can run, but he was sure raw last season. The Rams expected him to face a steep learning curve, but the team was forced to play him because of their assorted problems. As for Hall, he was always a fall-back option at the right price. Haslett liked him well enough, but Hall was hobbled all year -- adding to his unfortunate injury pattern.

DAVE COBLER: Hey Gordo;
With the exception of the Isturis signing, I think MO has made great moves to reshape the Cardinals given the team he inherited with the clubhouse climate such as it was. I understand Cardinal management believes Isturis can play SS, so I can live with that. However, if he does not perform and Ryan (lets say) gets INJURED, do you see a trade happening to acquire a SS for one of our young outfielders (especially since Rasmus is coming to play)and or a pitcher(s)?

Thank you Jeff!! Your time is VERY much appreciated. It is fun to read what other cards fans are thinking and to get the news from the sportswriters whose job it is to know thier stuff so us fans can be clued in. These chats are wonderful for us sports fans.

Jeff Gordon: La Russa is backing Izturis to the hilt, but fans should be very skeptical about his signing. TLR also frets about Ryan's unsteadiness at short. But if the kid can settle down, he could become the answer. If he doesn't settle down, then, yes, the Cards will have to shop for a longer term answer. And they will have trade chips soon enough.

Bob: It's a little distressing to read most of the press picking the Cardinals as bottom dwellers. I don't see it. I bet the
'Birds surprise a few people and compete for the Central.

Jeff Gordon: I like Milwaukee to win it and the Cubs to push for the wild-card, but I'd be surprised if the Cards are as bad as experts predict. IF Albert's elbow blows and IF Carpenter fails to return then, yes, they could finish 30 games below .500. But consider this: How will the Glaus/Ankiel HR/RBI totals compare to Rolen/Edmonds in 2007?

Gabriel to Snow: What is the thinking at WR? We cut Ike, then don't pursue any replacement. Unless you count Reche Caldwell. Giving a healthy Bennett a shot is fine, but they must be planning on a WR in the draft to challenge for the #3, right?
I am not thrilled about Linehan moving camp. Seems like he had enough problems keeping veterens happy & earning respect. And the new offense, coaches & personnel seems like enough of a challenge without the hassles of moving camp to an unfamiliar site. How do you feel about it Gordo?

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, the whole team-building aspect of moving camp assumes that the team has the leadership to pull that off. That remains to be seen from this reconfigured staff. At WR, expect the Rams to seek a real alternative in the draft.

Patrick Peotto: Dear Jeff:
Do you think that the Dolphins may draft Vernon Gholston to be their version of Demarcus Ware? If not, should the Rams grab him at number 2? Also, would we be wise to take LB Dan Conner or Curtis Lofton in round 2 to allow Witherspoon to move to the WLB spot? If not, could Limas Sweed possibly drop to us in the 2nd round due to his injury? If we took a lineman in the first or second round, would we be able to trade Barron for a pick or help on the corner?
Patrick from Montreal

Jeff Gordon: Trading Barron is a dicey concept, given Pace's injury history and advancing age. If the Rams take an OT first or second, that guy could move in as OP moves out in 2009. Or, if Barron flops again next year, the club could just let him walk and spend on a free agent instead.

Vernon is one big possibility, as Jim Thomas noted. Long, Long. Gholston and Dorsey are the priority guys

J.T.: Jeff,

Have you noticed every year during the 2nd round of the ncaa tournament, Duke always gets the first game on saturday, which is always the only game going? How nice was it they got beat, when they should have gotten beat by cornell? If you don't think CBS have their favorites, you are fooling yourself...

Jeff Gordon: Duke is one of the great brand names of college basketball. The fact that so many Americans cheer against them is actually good for business.

Tiger J: What's up Jeff, Few things this morning. St. Louis we will be so happy to have money come time for June cuts. We will get what we need believe. Bill is cool, he'll get a good June cut. 2nd we all know TLR has that Jordan, Bird thing going, he's just listening to the critics say we can't contend "HAHA, all I say is don't count one of 2 teams with double digits WS championships. Last How long before the Blue Notes return to the playoffs. Talk with you next Monday.

Jeff Gordon: The Blues could make it back next season, with the proper adjustments. But the other also-rans will say the same thing, since the league is so close. The Blues are three games below .500 and within shouting distance of last place overall.

I do believe the Cards will be in great shape come June. But if they aren't in the hunt, look for them to load up for '09 and beyond. If they are close, they will have a lot of trade chips and a bit of payroll room as well.

Danny E.: Gordo,
What's with all the pitching injuries the past few years. I know Duncan is considered an icon but are the Cards doing something wrong in regards to training? Did anyone even check out Clements before signing him?

Jeff Gordon: Yes, they checked out Matt. But he was coming back from major shoulder surgery, so there can always be setbacks. That is why he got the deal he got -- very little guaranteed money ($1.5 million) and the rest in bonuses.

The Cards haven't had an unusual number of pitching injuries. Stuff happens. Chris Capuano just went down for the year and beyond. Smoltz is starting out on the DL. Colon is struggling with his shoulder. The list goes on and on and on.

Tackleberry: So is that it for the Rams? As fans are we supposed to be enthralled by our #2 pick (rightfully earned by a 3-13 season) that we ignore the marginal effort by the front office to make any significant upgrades? So we are to believe what ultimately caused the Rams to lose games last year was injuries and youth, not an overall lack of talent?

I will say that I do like the idea of moving training camp out of St. Louis.

Jeff Gordon: Well, any team losing four starting offensive linemen to injury -- plus the top bsck-ups -- is going to struggle. Starting RB, starting CB, top pass-rushing defensive end, quarterback . . . the injury list WAS astounding.

One reason the club didn't have $30 million in cap room to spend is that the ownership agreed to lock in veterans like Bulger, Holt, Pace, Little, Tinoisamoa, et al at large dollars. Other teams let core guys leave, then make splash free agent moves that play well to sports talk radio.

JimmyBallgame: How in the world is Izturis going to be able to provide an upgrade defensively at SS after commiting 7 errors this spring? Our pitching staff cannot withstand giving up so mnay second chances. Eck's 20 errors from last season is starting to look good.

Jeff Gordon: Izturis will take away more hits than Eckstein, if he plays well. That is the big IF.

Cincy Ram: Hello Mr. Gordon,and thank you for your time,got a few quick questions for you.1)Why would Rams Management let a legend who was still a good player in Issac Bruce go only to keep the unproven injury prone Drew Bennette?2)And why let go dependable LB Brandon Chiller and keep the over paid and always injured LB Pisa T?3)Lastly Having so many team needs, was it smart to cut their starting RDE, not sign a high profile one in free agency, and almost force themselves to have to take DE C. Long or DE V.Gholston with the 2nd pick? Thanks for your thoughts....

Jeff Gordon: Cutting Bennett and Tinoisamoa would have huge cap implications. Signing a free agent defensive end would have been nice, but there are good options available in the draft. The Rams put money into the O-Line instead in free agency. As for Chillar, the staff believes Draft can start and Culberson is ready to push for a job.

Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff
Once again, Thank You for taking the time to answer my questions. I really enjoy your weekly chats.
For the way the Blues are playing and recent talk in the papers. How much moving or clearing do you see JD and company doing this summer? What players do you see are on the bubble? Also, if we get a low pick this summer. Do you see us with a line Oshie, Perron and another Player?
Thank You for your time.
Scott

Jeff Gordon: Oshie and Perron could both start the year in Peoria, but both are huge pieces of the future.

The Blues will clear out several veterans, including Martin Rucinsky, one way or another. I'm not sure they will be a big player in free agency, but we WILL see a lot of new faces next year.

ted: hey Gordo, whats the deal about scott linehan wanting to move the training camp to wisconsin no offense to wisconsin or anything but where there at now is not a bad spot unlike what linehan thinks. right now i dont care what linehan wants he doesnt have the coaching record to go around telling the organization what its going to do. thanks jeff

Jeff Gordon: He's the coach. As long as he is, he can make decisions like this. But for the money that will cost, it better get results.

Jerry Dunn: With all the outfielders doing well this spring for the Cards, why does Chris Duncan get a free pass to St. Louis with a .140 batting average. Looks to me like he needs more at bats (which is TLR's reason for sending out Rasmus) and others. Both Rasmus (.310) and Mather did a lot better, as did Marti (.333). I'm sure all three are much better defensive outfielders. Thanks for your thoughts on this.

Jeff Gordon: Duncan's career HR/AB ratio at the big league level keeps him in the lineup, so-so defense and all. Eventually Mather could push Duncan from his spot, since he would add a RH power bat to an outfield built on LH hitters.

Robert: Before being injured "Pig" Brown was tearing it up, will he be healthy in time for the draft? and could he be a Ram next season, 7rounder or FA?

Jeff Gordon: Teams will want him ready for camp. If he is, he could be a great addition to the Rams (or any other team) as a special teamer and safety prospect. His ability to play the game would outweigh most concerns about his pure athleticism.

ramfan njersey: im confused now im still in the dorsey camp- but the more i here of c.long and his will and toughness (dorsey didnt take plays off and played hurt all season so he's tough too)the more im intrigued is long his father or g. winstorm which is fine just not 2nd pick fine. v.ghoulston is he a work out warrior can he stand up against the run will we play more 3-4 have himstand up move carricker to end ryan in the middle and let him and witherspoon rush from the edge? when dorsey proofs he healthy we finnally have that rush up the middle. 2nd round pick will be crucial does some fall with all the whispers about f. brown not being here cb becomes a need athough i like r.bartell to start this is week class for lb but any the rans are looking at i think ol is deep and you can get one later on. if v. ghoulston is shawn merriaen and we know the copy cat league thing with giants winning with the pash rush odds are the rams take him but i still say dorsey i think????

Jeff Gordon: The whole deal with Dorsey is his health. If there is any question, the Rams ought to take somebody else. They can't take any risk with this pick.

Jason: Hey Jeff,

I'm okay with the pitcher batting 8th. I think in some scenarios it's creative and maybe a little benign in others. But do you think it defeats the purpose of such "creative" moves if Izturis is the extra lead-off guy in the 9th spot? And if so, is there any better spot for him to bat? Bad numbers are bad numbers no matter where they are in the order. Do you think if Brendan Ryan had made more errors he might have a starting job too? :)

missing Eckstein,
Jason

Jeff Gordon: La Russa loves Izturis, so Cesar will have to play himself out of that position. That could happen. Ryan adds speed and energy when he is in the mix, so I expect him to get a lot of ABs, too -- IF he gets healthy.

Izturis' error total is a little alarming, just as the gaudy batting averages of most Cardinals outfielders are encouraging. But the real games are still the real games. Let's see what happens.

Andy: Dear Sir,

If all of our starting pitchers heal and pitch relatively well over the next few months, would it be likely or possible that Looper would return to the bullpen, perhaps as the long relief guy?

Is Duncan likely to play more first base in the regular season, or is this just an attempt to get his bat going with all of the competition in the outfield?

Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: Albert says he will take more days off this year to protect the elbow. Duncan gets those starts for the reason you stated. As for Looper, he would go to the pen or the trade block if everybody heals on cue.

zimmy: who do the blues take in the draft?

Jeff Gordon: They need to take the most skilled available forward. Stamkos figures to go first overall, so perhaps the Blues will look to Kyle Beach or Mikkel Boedker. Neither would help next year, though.

zimmy: did we outbid ourselves on Lohse? mid march & nobody wanted him , yet we give 4M to him?

Jeff Gordon: That was a good get. Other teams spent too much too soon.

Mark in NY: Hey Gordo. Enjoy your writing. Our local paper frequently posts your hilarious one-liners.

My question is have you heard anything about the Dolphins lately? My guess would be that Bill Parcells wants to trade down and acquire two picks... I can't imagine Parcells "guaranteeing" a young, unproven quarterback (or a DT) 30 million a year... that would leave the Rams staying put at #2. It looks like Chris Long or Glen Dorsey, which is fine with me. Also, how is Tye Hill doing with his injury. Do you think he will every reach his potential?

Jeff Gordon: Hill will be a good NFL cornerback. I don't know if he will ever become the Pro Bowler he longs to be. As for Miami, the Rams hope Parcells lets Long fall to them. Bill is sitting in a great spot and his ego almost demands that he do something creative. Why not trade down?

RickMoore: Jeff, after watching Sunday's loss to the hated Blackhawks...Can you answer one question for me? HOW DOES ERIC BREWER GET THE "C" for the Blues??? He continually makes boneheaded plays and ill-advised passes. He's awful on the power-play, and terrible in his own end of the rink. When I look around at the other captains around the league, I think the Blues should have thought about who is a true leader on this team. There are a number of better optiona than Brewer, Ryan Johnson, for one. Talk about a player who sets a good example EVERY SHIFT, Johnson does just that. I'd like to hear your opinion on this. Also, if the Blues are going to make the play offs NEXT year, they had better "fix" their power-play. What part of the power play do you think needs fixing? Puck movement, point men, traffic in front, more shots??? Thanks Jeff.

Jeff Gordon: The Blues need to add a forceful point man for the power play. Brewer is a second unit guy, at best. Johnson could develop into a force, but the Blues need a shooter to team with him.

As for all the mistakes he makes -- and Jackman makes, for that matter - that is the single biggest disappointment about this team. In today's NHL, defensemen are going to get forechecked. They have to be able to handle the heat.

Randy F: Hey Gordo, can you explain how long a team has options on a player and how they work. It was my understanding that Reyes was out of options and can not be sent to the minors but last week I heard that he had options left and could be sent down without us losing him to a waiver claim. Which is true?

Jeff Gordon: He still has options. He can start the season at Memphis. A player can go back a forth a lot, as Skip Schumaker can attest.

ESPN.com's Rob Neyer explains:

"After three years as a pro, a player must be protected on a team's 40-man roster, or he is eligible for the Rule 5 draft (more on that later). Once he's served those three years, and assuming he is added to the 40-man roster, his club then has what are called "options" on him.

"When a player is on the 40-man roster but not on the 25-man Major League roster, he is on "optional assignment." One common misconception about the rules is that a player may only be "optioned out" three times. Actually, each player has three option years, and he can be sent up and down as many times as the club chooses within those three seasons.

"When you hear that a player is "out of options," that means he's been on the 40-man roster during three different seasons, beginning with his fourth as a pro, and to be sent down again he'll have to clear waivers (more on those below)."

bfulton: Besides the post-Dispatch, which of course holds the #1 position, what football publications carry the most weight at Rams Park?

Jeff Gordon: ESPN.com is well read. Their battery of reporters offers up-to-the-second stuff from around the league. ProFootballTalk.com is wired in pretty good, thanks to good sources inside front offices.

rich: Jeff; Thanks for taking my question. Why did the Rams give Trent Green a 3 yr. contract at age 37? One or two yrs. at the most would have been plenty! Also with Green's history of concussions this looks like a bad move on the Rams part!

Thanks
Rich

Jeff Gordon: The years don't bother me. The signing bonus and the possible cap implications were a bigger concern. He better hold up -- or this will really cost the Rams.

Hoosier Boy: Gordo,
I usually can't watch the Cardinals spring training games on tv because of the lousy camera placement at their facility in Jupiter. It was interesting to see that the Mets don't have that problem in their facility. What gives? More money, smarter planning?
I did notice however that when a ball is hit it has a loud crack that resonates thru the television which is quite cool.
Was it just me or did Wellemeyer look like he just ran a marathon? He looked like that to start the game even though he got some good work in.

Jeff Gordon: For Todd, better conditioning is critical. The Cards need him to become a 6-inning pitcher while the other starters heal. That is a big step for him. As for the TV angles, Roger Dean Stadium is a pure spring training park, It is NOT a mini-major league stadium, like at Disney. So you get what you get on TV angles. That was not a priority.

bob in indiana: gordo
whats the biggest worry for the cardinals, now that spring training is over, pitching, hitting or defense. or all three.

Jeff Gordon: Starting pitching will be the No. 1 concern until at least Pineiro and Clement are good to go. The offense is a minor concern, with Izturis at short and the pitcher hitting eighth. And Schumaker hold up in the leadoff spot.

Larry: Why, Why, Why do we continue to see R. Johnson and Mayers out on the ice in overtime? Dosnt are overtime record show they shouldnt be out their. Help Me out Jeff, what am i missing

Jeff Gordon: Murray likes to use his speed on four-on-four, even though they aren't big scorers. Given the struggles of some of the other wingers, I don't know if I can fault him for that.

Will: Why does it seem that the Cards never have any hard throwing starting pitchers. I understand that thye don't just grow on trees, but when was the last time the team had a true power pitcher.

Jeff Gordon: They have tried to draft them, again and again. But a lot of the hard-throwing college guys fade in the pros. (See Chris Lambert.) Injuries and earlier overuse are issues. McCormick still throws hard, but he lacks control. Drafting high school pitchers is dicey, since projecting their development is more difficult.

Adam G: What do you think about this formula for picking first overall?

The likelihood of receiving the first overall pick is based on the number of points a team earns after becoming mathematically eliminated from the playoffs.

Jeff Gordon: What? You want to prevent tanking? How dare you!

Actually, that is an interesting idea.

Dan Jensen: What's the health situation of Josh Kinney?

Jeff Gordon: He's throwing well, but he will need a rehab assignment to get ready. Hence McClellan's presence on the roster.

Kenny H.: Jeff,

The Rams allowing Chillar to go really irks me! Why do people act like it's cool, since we have Chris Draft? Draft was already needed to replace Pisa when he gets injured in September! The Rams were stupid to waste so much money on him, even if they do like his guts & glory attitude. It would have been cheaper to hire him as a motivational speaker. I know he played a bunch of consecutive games to start his career, but he also played a majority of those with one arm or less, and was just one of three pathetic LBs suiting up on Sundays. Chillar, however, was an ascending player with size and legitimate durability. I guess he is just another easy defender to replace, like London Fletcher, Dre Bly, Ryan Pickett, and Grant Wistrom, huh?

Jeff Gordon: The Rams just didn't see Chillar as a cornerstone guy. I didn't see enough from him to argue the point. Let's see how he pans out for Green Bay.

But you're right -- the Rams have let some pretty good draft picks and FA signings walk.

RK: Wouldn't you think the Rams chances of making a bigger leap forward this season would be enhanced if they trade their first round pick to gain extra picks in the first rounds of the draft? Some team from the mid first round who might be coveting Darren McFadden might give up quite a bit, including both picks and players, at a chance to draft him as the final piece to their offensive puzzle.

Jeff Gordon: I don't see the Rams moving lower than sixth. That is obvious in how they have studied the top prospects. They want Long, Long, Dorsey or Gholston. I agree with that strategy.

George: I have two questions about the Rams draft plans. First: who do you think is higher on their board Vernon Gholston or Jake Long; and second: are the Rams still targeting a QB in the later rounds, i.e. Josh Johnson?

Jeff Gordon: Jake Long is probably higher right now, based on how the staff prioritized its visits. And, yes, I'd look for the Rams to draft a second-day QB.

superjim: Hey Gordo,

I'm a deeply saddened Rams fan! I've supported the Rams since I got into American Football 5 years ago, and living in the UK I've had to watch games on tv instead of live, and been out of the loop when it comes to team news. So, this year I scraped together the pennies and decided to head for St. Louis for training camp. Except...now it's going to Wisconsin! Jeff, any chance of them staying in St. Louis?? On a more serious note, is this loosening ties with the city despite Chip's assurances that the team won't move?

Thanks Gordo

Jeff Gordon: Down the road, the Rams will address their stadium issue in a big way or lose the team. For now, the team appears safe.

Linehan seems intent on summering in Wisconsin. Start checking on air fare to Milwaukee . . .

Jonny Faux: Hey Gordo,

There has been a lot of talk of trading down in the upcoming draft to garner more picks. The scenario I am most interested in involves the Oakland Raiders. So my question is if the rams trade down with Oakland and acquire Fabian Washington and the #4 overall pick. Would you make that trade? Would we be getting fair value or would we have to squeeze a 3rd out of them? Thank you for your time.

Jeff Gordon: That deal would make a lot of sense for the Rams, if Haslett likes Washington. Oakland just spent a zillion dollars on Hall, so the Raiders might do something likes this.

Quincy: Why do the staff don't think we need cornerbacks? Lito Sheppard, and Deangelo Hall could've been Rams.

Jeff Gordon: Hall would have cost a fortune, plus the second-round pick, brought tons of baggage, The Rams have enough trouble.

But, yes, the Rams do need a CB and are still searching.

ramhntr: Jeff-

I am assuming that Linehan and Haslett are content with keeping Witherspoon at the middle linebacker position for the 08-09 season. After watching him showcase excellent pass rushing skills this past year I would love to see him slide back to the outside (replace Chillar?) and see Haslett and Co. receive a run stopping stud in the middle hopefully via the draft. Is there any talent available in this year's class-or can Culberson handle the middle? We need the D line to keep the linebackers running free in space-a true vote for Long or Dorsey in the 2 pick. Thanks for your time.

Jeff Gordon: Culberson had a great camp, then made the most of his look later in the season. He is in the mix, one way or another. I haven't heard much talk of drafting a MLB, given all the other needs.

dmitri: WHY WAS THE RAMS ONLY OFFERING CHILLIAR A ONE YEAR DEAL FOR WHAT I HEARD FOR ONLY 1 MILLION DOLLARS AND THEY NEED ALL THE HELP ON DEFENSE THEY CAN GET TO ME HE WAS ONE OF THEIR UNSUNG HEROS ON DEFENSE LAST YEAR!AND ARE THEY STILL GONNA SIGN RECHEE CALDWELL?

Jeff Gordon: The staff did not share your enthusiasm for Chillar. The coaches liked him, but not that much. There can't be a ton of competition for Caldwell, so I expected that to get done. Maybe the Rams developed second thoughts.

Steve: Thanks for answering my question. What's the chances that McClellan makes the team. If he does make it, what are the chances that he does the Adam Wainwright routine and works his way into a rotation spot? What is the time frame on Mr. McClellan?

Jeff Gordon: He could certainly make the team, although sticking on the team would be a challenge as one veteran after another returns. He could take the Wainwright route, for sure, if he makes the most of his early '08 look.

Clyde: Hello Jeff, Although some mock drafts still have the Rams taking Jake Long, I think the O-line is really in better shape than it would appear from last years preformance. The injuries that kept happening were just unreal. I agree with most of the Post writers that DE is the choice with the 1st pick. My question is; Do you think they could really pass on Chris Long if he is on the board? He appears to me to be a better, more talented version of Grant Winstrom.

Jeff Gordon: No, I don't see them passing on Chris Long if he's there. If he's gone, Dorsey (if he passes medical muster) or a trade down for Gholston would be the way to go.

Tom Peinemann: Hi Jeff,

It looks like we're down to about 4 players for the 2nd over all pick. Which one do think it will be? Also, what's your take on the 33rd overal pick?

Thanks,

Tom

Jeff Gordon: I just touched on the first pick. The second pick will be a wait-and-see deal, since a first-round caliber OT or WR should fall to that spot. Predicting who will fall is pretty tough at this point.

steve: If and that is a big "if" Carp, Mulder, Clement, and Pinerio come back; what do the Cards do trade the surplus pitching and who?
How does this effect the bullpen makeup?

Jeff Gordon: IF everybody returns, Wellemeyer heads to pen and Thompson and Looper either head to the pen or hit the trade mart. Lohse could also get traded, since Carpenter, Mulder, Wainwright and Pineiro are under contract in '00 and the club has an '09 option on Clement. Lohse is a pending free agent still looking for the big dough.

Sheldon Manaster: Hi Jeff,
If Dorsey is healthy will the Rams draft him at the #2 slot? If he is deemed questionable and Miami draftes CL, who will the Rams pick, assuming no trade down?
Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: If the Rams stay at No. 2, Chris Long is gone and Dorsey is deemed damaged, then Jake Long would be hard to pass up. Or maybe the team would move back and take Gholston.

Matt: Jeff,
What is the status of Josh Kinney? When he finishes his rehab, do you think there is a spot in the bullpen for him or do you see him in Memphis?

Jeff Gordon: If he gets back to 100 percent, he would likely work his way back to St. Louis. He had a big part in the '06 title run.

jack olms: Jeff I am not impressed with what the Rams have done so far, I see our linebackers as a weak area, we are too small, do you see the Rams acquiring anyone, or signing anyone, or do you feel that management will go with what we have on our roster.

Jeff Gordon: They will add to the LB corps at some point. They do need some beef there.

Tyler: Let's talk REAL basketball.....

who do you like coming out of the West?

who is your MVP? and please don't say LeBron

Jeff Gordon: There are plenty of MVP candidates and you hate to reward somebody from the weaker conference, so maybe Kobe should get it. And the retooled Lakers, with the Zen Master coaching them, will be hard to beat. Dallas suddenly has issues and the Rockets could take a quick exit after cooling off.

Jeremy: When the cards rotation starts coming off the D.L. one by one this season, what's the likelyhood that Looper will be traded for a prospect? Seems to me that if he has 5-7 wins by the all-star break he might make more sense to trade away since he is in the last year of his contract. Obviously in a perfect world, all these starters come back and pitch effectively which would mean a surplus of pitchers. What do you see happening to the extras?

Jeff Gordon: Looper's contract status does make him a candidate, IF the Cards are so fortunate as to develop a surplus.

Will Dixon-Rapid City, SD: Jeff,

Is there any chance that the Cards will go after Bonds to protect Pujols? I think the Cards will be a contender if the piching comes around, what do you think of their pitching?

Jeff Gordon: The Cards are loaded in the outfield, so Bonds doesn't fit, He needs to DH. The pitching could be OK for a while, then really good later in the season. But there are a not of ifs there.

ramrage: The Chicago broadcasters called out the Blues power play yesterday. They were right--it's in last place, and there is no surprise for those who need to kill it off, especially when watching Kariya and MacDonald. Teams don't have to work hard to defend against a power play when they can already see what's coming by a cursory look at the film. I've watched this for over half the season. No one, save for Johnson, has a threatening shot from the Blue line. Most of the shooters don't get the puck away, but hold it a second or two (maybe settling it down) but nevertheless, the PK unit has plenty of time to shut down the lanes. Lots of passing, and very few shots getting to the net. Who's coaching this Power Play? And why are they not changing things?

Jeff Gordon: For whatever reason, the players refuse to play aggressively with the man advantage. Quicker puck movement and quicker shots will change everything. But nobody wants to take charge. Hence the need for change next year, especially from the points.

ramrage: Have the Blues won a single overtime this season? What are they doing wrong to lose so much? Sometimes it takes only one shift for the other team to end it.

Jeff Gordon: Weird, isn't it? It's like the D-men know they are going to make a mistake and the forwards know they will hit a post. This just shows how narrow the margin is between winning and losing.

Frank: Hey Jeff -

2nd round, Rams on the clock. Do you go cornerback, O-lineman or wideout?? And of the wdieouts anticipated to be there (Manningham, Doucet, et al) who do you like??

Thanks!

Frank

Jeff Gordon: I'm not a huge draftnik, so I have no opinion on which tackle or WR to take with the second pick. I would just take the highest-ranked guy from those two positions, then hit the other need in the third round. The Rams should get the equivalent of a second first-round pick.

Dave: Gordo:

Between the major area college BB programs (I would include Mizzou, Illinois, SLU, Southern Ill & Missouri State) how would you rank them in terms of who is closest to and furthest from making it back to the NCAA tourney? Do you see anybody getting in next year?

Jeff Gordon: Next year?

1-SLU (HUGE recruiting class!)
2-SIU (Strong class, but what about size?)
3-Illinois (Weber coaches up his kids)
4- Mizzou (If Lyons leaves, they really struggle).
5- Missouri State (Who is the coach)?

orlando: i have been a ram fan since their days in los angeles and then anaheim. what troubles mean about the rams is that they are not a physical team on defense. we need cornerbacks and a good strong safety. are they looking to draft a legitimate cornerback and not reach like they usually do for one that might be just a project

Jeff Gordon: CB is just one spot where more toughness is needed. Safety is another. Some beef at LB would be nice, too, along with better DEs.

Will: I would like some clarification on Anthony Reyes. How did he become the Cards best pitching prospect? I have read articles written by members of your paper who say that his fastball has little to no movement. They say that his changeup is decent, and that he has no breaking pitch.How does someone like that get billed as a potential star? I no that pitching was slim in the minors at the time, but Wainright was down there with him. Is Reyes struggling here because of a lack of ability, or is it because the team is trying to make him a different kind of pitcher than he should be? Thanks for your help.

Jeff Gordon: When healthy, he had great stretches in college and in the minors. But he does lack a knockout pitch. And he either he can't locate his fastball or he doesn't want to. To me, he is a good prospect who has failed to take that final step.

Mark S: Jeff,
Given all of the Rams holes, limited options in free agency, and the tendency on the part of most rookies to take a few years at the pro level before they make meaningful contributions, how many of the Rams' holes do you realistically think they will be able to fill by the start of the season, or alternatively, how many of those holes will remain come the start of the season? Also, what is your best guess as to where those remaining holes will be?

Jeff Gordon: They need a pass rushing DE, first and foremost. That is a hole. Otherwise, you have Bell stepping in at left guard and starters returning just about everywhere else.

What the Rams need, though, are upgrades at OT, WR, CB and S. All that can get done before camp.

Melly: is there any rumors about the rams possibly trading for jason taylor?

Jeff Gordon: Anything is possible, but don't look for the Rams to part with any draft picks. So if Taylor moves, he moves to a contender, I think.

Melly: are the rams close to signing reche caldwell or any other free agent receivers?

Jeff Gordon: Caldwell seemed like a good bet last week, but we'll see. Hakim wants to try out, but I'm sure there is anything left there.

Scott L: Not sure I buy what appears to be revisionist history. Now that the Blues have death spiraled out of anything except for a lottery pick writers including some at the Post and hockeybuzz suggest maybe they just weren’t ready, and more learning needs to take place.

However, it’s not that young of a team and they played well for a significant chunk of the season and yet went south without any significant injuries. What also occurred was a productive line was broken up almost never to be put back in place, older scorers didn’t score, and older defenders didn’t defend. When a righting of the ship and consistency was needed in their game, line juggling appeared to increase. Instead of trying something different like possibly dipping into Peoria for a short term call up to add some jump, they called up guys who couldn’t find the back of the net, third line guys even in the AHL. When the team appeared listless, only young Johnson got more ice time, young Perron got less. In other words, key veteran players sank faster than the team, key managers appeared to both over manage and refuse to try new possible solutions.

I am not sure if Perron’s talent is sustainable at the NHL level, and maybe now have to worry about Stepniack. We leave this season with a team a year older, and given the average age that may not be a good thing. Of the young players one can only state definitively that Johnson offers promise, Backes, Stepniack, McClement, continue to have question marks surrounding weather either can be consistently above average NHLers. Besides E Johnson and Andy McDonald, can we actually close this season pointing to more than a player or two that clearly points to progress?

Jeff Gordon: There has been plenty of disappointment, for sure. I believed this team had enough to last all season in the hunt. For a half a year, they did. The failure of the veteran D was the biggest disappointment to me, followed by failure of Stempniak, Backes and McClement to continue their upward climb. Back-up goaltending was another big disappointing. So was Kariya's inability to upgrade the power play.

The Weight/McDonald deal was a big plus for next year. So was the development of rookies E.Johnson, Perron and Wagner (too bad he broke his leg in the minors). But, yes, some turnover is needed -- along with some new ways of doing things.

Nick: Hey Gordo,

Where is So Taguchi these days, has he signed with anyone?

Jeff Gordon: Phillies.

Louisville Blues: Jeff,

Just need some perspective for us out-of-town Blues fans. Our guys have tanked it since the trade deadline. Do you think it's because of the travel, is the season grinding them down due to lack of depth, is it because they have no offense, or have they tuned out Murray, or a combination?

Jeff Gordon: A lot of things went wrong to reach this point. Injuries aren't an excuse this time. Murray has to do some soul searching, as do those veterans likely to return. Some turnover will freshen up the team, but a LOT of these guys will be back.

JeffO: Gordo, some Chicago Cubs Homer at work said he read that a windy city writer picked the Cards to finish dead last in the Central(no kidding), under the Pirates. I know you can be impartial and put down the Kool-aid. What are you predictions for the NL Central this year??

Jeff Gordon: The Pirates will subtract players as the year progresses and the Cards will add them, so I don't see a last-place finish. A spirited battle for third is more realistic, with a chance of something bigger if the team finally catches some breaks with its health.

Terry Holloway: If the rams are going to try a 3 4 defense, were is or who's going to be that stout d-tackle. Are we looking at one draft or free agents.

Jeff Gordon: When they use that formation, Ryan plays the middle. He was very solid last year.

RK: Gordo,

Don't you think it would behoove the Rams to trade down in the first round, to pick up extra picks. Perhaps they could get a lot in return for the #2 overall for some teams that are looking to draft Darren Mcfadden. Possibly the cowboys who would be a great place for Mcfadden to land.

And maybe the rams could pick up both picks and players for arguably the best player in the draft. Especially considering that Adrian Peterson's impact from last season with the Vikes would still be on every team's mind.

Jeff Gordon: McFadden is a real X-factor, one that could benefit the Rams. But will his stock still be high on draft day? There is a LOT of digging going on right now. Let's see if his stock drops.

HEG: Gordo do you feel batting the pitcher 8th is advantageous to the team???

Jeff Gordon: Not at all. TLR will never sell me on it. Give me a No. 8 hitter with RBI potential. Over time, that guy will get more chances to drive in runs than a No. 9 hitter, obviously. If the Cards had a speedy, high OBA guy to bat ninth, I might be swayed. But this team has Izturis.

HEG: Jeff what do you think the future holds for Coach Anderson at Mizzou??? he is yet to make the NCAA tourney.

Jeff Gordon: He'll have a tough job next year if Lyons bails. Leo played off Carroll so well. The incoming big guys won't add that sort of offense. Another miss next season would make 2009-2010 his make-or-break year.

Greg Gibson: I heard you mention that down the road the Rams will address their stadium issue in a big way or lose the team. What gives? I thought they had a "sweetheart lease" from the city.

Regards,

Greg

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, but the stadium becomes more outdated by the minute. One by one, the old domes are falling. In five to eight years, this could become a huge issue here.

Gus: Who's going start at Center for the Rams? Romberg isnt a long term answer, Setterstrom is new to the position, Cogs is better at G so he can use his aggressiveness. Mike Pollack and Steve Justice are the Top Centers from the draft. both are athetlic guys Saunders likes from his linemen with some strength.

Jeff Gordon: Long-term, center is a to-be-announced deal. That is the way it is with most positions, given the heavy turnover. Maybe Setterstrom becomes the long-term guy if he isn't needed at guard.

Tackleberry: You mentioned a major contract for Tinoisamoa, why? It seems like Hawaii-50 went from fan favorite to over-paid fan favorite. Wht would you say are his redeeming qualities that garner a major contract?

Jeff Gordon: He plays like a maniac. Sadly, he also gets hurt a lot. And the team's breakdown at DE last year, due to injuries, didn't help.

RK: Gordo,

Is Andy Murray in trouble with the Blues?
If the season ends as terribly as it's going right now, does Big John begin a search for a replacement?

Jeff Gordon: I'd expect Davidson to give Murray another chance, unless the end-of-the-year meeting goes badly. If I'm JD, I call Kariya, Brewer, Jackman, McDonald, McKee and a few others in for a long chat. What happened at the end of this season isn't acceptable.

Marty: Is Joe Klopenstein soft or does it just appear that way? What's with all this hint hint hush hush regarding Fakhir brown??? Is he going to be a Ram in 08' or not?

Jeff Gordon: I can't address Brown, other than to say he is down to his last strike in the NFL discipline system. That is always a tough place to be. As for Klopfenstein, he flopped last year and prompted Devaney to look outside for help.

Joe: Gordo,

Do you see an NBA franchise in the city of
St. Louis ??? Why or why not?

Thanks!

Jeff Gordon: No, unless the NHL moves. There isn't enough money here to support four pro teams. Not even close.

Mike: Jeff could you giv us a quick synopsis on The OF's? Love you stuff, Mike

Jeff Gordon: Juan Gone got hurt, predictably, and bowed out of the competition. That opened the door for Brian Barton, who had a killer spring. Schumaker hit himself into the leadoff job and Ankiel locked up the everyday CF job with a monstrous spring. Duncan struggled, but he was in no peril. His power is too valuable. Ludwick has done enough to stay, for now. Rasmus proved he is ready, but he could benefit from some time at Memphis while Skip gets his chance. Mather is also ready, something Ludwick needs to remember.

woodstown@excite.com: Hiya Jeff-

Do you know of any other nhl teams that use man to man coverage in the defensive zone? it seems the other teams love to cycle the puck and create some kinda pick to open up the slot against the blues. I'm not buying this man to man stuff in the nhl...

Thanks

Jeff Gordon: I see execution trouble more than I see X and O trouble. Tactically, Murray has proven himself at every level. But the D IS a mess in its own zone.

Michael Kent: Rick Ankiel is having a great spring, but do you feel his bat control has improved enough to earn the "Young Musial" nickname that you've given him?

Jeff Gordon: The Young Musial thing was originally derisive, but then the kid b4came legit. It is unlikely he will ever hit like the real Stan, of course, but he should add power -- lots doubles, HRs and RBI to go with a LOT of strikeouts.

This appears to be the last questions, so I'll wish you well until next time!

Andrew B.: What's this? Hakim wants to try out?

Jeff Gordon: That is what he is telling people. I can't speak to his conditioning level.