Join columnist Jeff Gordon for a live chat from 1-2 p.m. Monday about the Cards, Rams, Blues, Mizzou, SLU or whatever sport or team is on your mind.
Monday, April 7, 2008 01:00 PM CDT
Byron: There is talk that the Ravens wanting to move up and take Matt Ryan, and the Rams at #2 is a possible trade, with the Rams dropping from #2 to #8 and picking up the #8 this year, and a one and two next year. Would a pick at #8 allow the Rams to get a player they would like (say Gholston), with a scenario where they could get Sam Baker and Mario Manningham both in the second round, or do you think think the Rams wouldnt want to drop down quite that far, even if it means another one and two next year?
Jeff Gordon: Next year Linehan could be a receivers coach elsewhere in the league. He would not be real excited about a trade down that doesn't help this team RIGHT AWAY.
Larry Lutz: I can now see why the Cardinals signed Adam Wainwright to a long term deal. In my opinion he is the leader of the starting staff right now and I certaintly believe that he issued a challenge to his compatriots when he made his comments about not just holding the fort down while the other starting pitchers are on the DL. My question is what do the other starting pitchers on the DL think about the job their replacements are doing?
Jeff Gordon: Their job is to get well and regain their form. They should be happy, since they won't have to rush back into the rotation and pitch at less than 100 percent. The early success of the rotation allows them to make extra rehab starts. Pineiro, for instance, could get an extra minor league game if Wellemeyer and Thompson hold up well in their second starts. This is a good thing.
Down the road, there will be serious job competition. That is good, too.
Mike: Hi Gordo, Always a pleasure corresponding with you.
My question is why aren't the Rams pursuing a bone crunching Strong Safety ? You know, someone that can hit instead of whiffing or hand tackling. I hear nothing in the Draft rumours or from the FO.
Jim Thomas has stated numerous times that the Rams don't see that as a "need" position, surely, we can do better than Corey Chavous as are starter and Todd Johnston or Jerome Carter as backups. Do you feel this is a "need" position-are we good to go there? In my opinion, this is one of the very weakest points in our "D". Your thoughts ?
Jeff Gordon: I agree with you. Haslett talked up Chavous at every opportunity, but I didn't see an impact player there. He was more noticeable for the plays he missed rather than the ones he made. But this team has needs all over the field and apparently the Rams think they can one more year from him in his spot.
Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff, it is good to talk with you again! I have some quick questions for you.
1. With your understanding of the NHL lottery. What is best and worst that the Blues could end up with?
2. What do you think of the Cardinals start and what is the biggest factor?
Thank you for your time.
Scott
Jeff Gordon: Here is the explanation from a 2007 draft guide. I believe the rules are the same:
"The 14 teams that did not make the 2007 Stanley Cup playoffs, or who have acquired a first round selection through a trade, are given a weighted percentage to win the Draft Lottery. The team with the lowest amount of regular season points will be given the greatest percentage to win lottery and therefore, the greatest chance to win the first overall pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.
"The NHL will conduct with its Draft Drawing to determine the order for the 14 teams that did not make the playoffs. Teams are only able to move up four spots in the draft. Therefore, only the top five teams have an opportunity to get the first overall selection. Teams can only move down one spot."
The Blues tied the Islanders for the fourth-worst record, so my reading of this is this: The Blues pick anywhere from first to sixth.
Brian: Jeff,
Good afternoon, What does your gut feeling tell you about who the Rams are going to take with the 2nd pick?
Brian
Jeff Gordon: Right now, based on what Linehan said, either Chris or Jake Long.