Griff21: Why do the NHL and MLB have the all-star games in the middle of the season while the NFL has it at the end of the season?

Jeff Gordon: Because when football players are way more likely to get hurt playing in an all-star game.

Griff21: What is your take on baseball in( or not in ) the olympics. Is it even necessary with the other international tournaments

Jeff Gordon: The Olympic venue is a nice stage for baseball, but playing the major leaguers is impossible. This upsets the IOC, which wants the stars, so we may never see it again.

I'd like the WBC as a postseason event, in late fall.

Tim: Do you think now the Rams could possibly make a trade for Edwards or Boldin involving next years draft picks? I dont know if many teams try that this close after the draft but the Rams need a true No.1 and they would fill that need immediatly

Jeff Gordon: I don't see that. This team still has a lot of holes. There isn't much cap room left. In a year, when the team can make its decision on Bulger, a move for a big-time WR would make more sense.

Tim: Any chance the Rams make a run at Leroy Hill for Stronside Backer? adding him could complete the front seven.

Jeff Gordon: Given what happened at the draft, I see the Rams sticking with the current group. Devaney will always be on the prowl for decent veteran depth, but that's it. Again, not much cap room left now.

Tim: Who do you see as a big sleeper for day 2 picks? Im thinking Dorell Scott. It just seems like he needs about 15 pounds and a little more agressivness to be an elite run stuffer. Him and a healthy Carriker could make Laurinatis a pro bowler year after year

Jeff Gordon: Let's see how competitive he is. He wasn't great his last year in college, so he'll have to step it up. At worst, though, he adds some heft to the rotation. Glover got overwhelmed last year.

Griff21: Looking ahead, who are the blues likely to draft ? Mock drafts/ prospect rankings have us taking any of a handful of players from O’Reilly, Holland and others. Never seen any of the guys play & only have scouting reports & stats. Do you have any insights or favorites you would like to see?

Jeff Gordon: At that point in the NHL Draft, anything is possible. I have no opinion/favorite for that pick. It is too deep into the first round to get too excited about.

Griff21: We all know of EJ's injury. Brewer had surgery, Jackman & Mckee are likely needing some repair. While each is different situation( EJ almost ready ready to return) its looking a little rough that 2/3 of our Dmen are either having procedures done or are coming off injury to start next year.

Jeff Gordon: We don't know if Brewer will play again, so that is big. McKee is a depth guy at best for next year, so his health isn't that big of a concern. Johnson is the key to 2009-10.

Jim: Jeff,

Long time reader, first time poster. I do not get all the comments on players that have not had a chance to show what they can do. People are all over the later picks, but here is a note from Yahoo Sports on some of their favorite picks overall during the draft:

Round Seven
Three Picks I Love

211. St. Louis — Chris Obonnaya, RB, Texas If you like "bring your lunch pail to work" stories, you'll love everything about Chris Obonnaya. Despite good size, good speed and good skills, the Texas running back had carried the ball only 66 times in three seasons as a Longhorn. Finally given the chance to start in '08, Obonnaya burst onto the scene, rushing for 373 yards in spot duty and catching 46 balls out of the backfield. He worked on special teams, too. Obonnaya is one of those players willing and able to do anything a team could possibly need. He'll be a welcome addition to the rebuilding Rams.

Jim

Jeff Gordon: Mizzou fans can appreciate that kid's potential. I like the fact he is a combo back with good hands. He could be, at worst, a Brian Leonard-type player -- but picked at a more appropriate draft slot.

Jim: Jeff,

I realized it was actually Fox Sports on the 7th round pick info. I do think that we need to see what happens over the summer and give everyone a chance.

Thanks

Jim

Jeff Gordon: Like his mentor Bobby Beathard, Devaney went for interesting athletes with his later picks. He went for players with tools. Those guys are on the outside looking in anyway, so why not shoot for upside?

davispastry@verizon.net: jason smith had his picture in the sunday post and my wife pointed out to me he had braces on both knees,any worries about this? thanks

Jeff Gordon: He is healthy. No concerns there.

Ship: Gordo,
Did the Rams discuss the possibility of moving up some on the 2nd day to get higher ranked players? Seems there were some "rolls of the dice" on the 2nd day. Would of liked to pick up the RB out of NC State. What's up with the QB pick? Thanks Gordo.

Jeff Gordon: Devaney said there wasn't much talk of moving up on Day 2. As for Null, the football guys liked him a lot at the D-II all-star game and felt he had the skills to develop. Even though he played a spread offense, he has the size to be a drop-back guy.

joedirt1955: Mr. Gordo,

I know it is still real early, but all these errors seem pretty troubling right now, especially since so many are comming from 1st base and short (the two spots I wasnt expecting). What are your thoughts? Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: Greene has made a lot of nice plays at short, so I still like him there. There is no excuse for all these mishaps, since the Cards have mostly played at home. Who could have guessed Skip would be a better infield early on than Greene?

Khalil will have to clean that up to get another contract from this team, since Tyler Greene is playing well at Memphis.

butsir@columbus.rr.com: Good afternoon, Gordo.
Now that the draft is over, are there any veteran, free agent wideouts whom the Rams could sign to school the younguns?


don in columbus

Jeff Gordon: Our guys at Rams Park keep mentioning Toomer, but Spagnuolo doesn't seem interested.

bfulton: Are the Rams going to make a push to sign rookie free agents? If so, how many? When? Any sense of players or, at least, positions?

Jeff Gordon: They always sign a bunch of guys to fill camp roster slots. Once in a while a team will find a gem there.

Griff21: Winchester, Crombeen , Weaver, Woy... who's coming back who's not? I'd like winchester & Crombeen but is there room? Weaver is a handy guy to have especially with all the injuries/ surgeries to the D.

Jeff Gordon: Of that group, Woywitka probably has the least value. Winchester didn't help himself in the playoffs, but it's hard not to like his size -- at the right price. This team needs more beef up front, not less.

Tiger J: What's up Jeff? Not a bad weekend. Loved the draft and Cards took 2 of 3. Why is everyone seem to be down that we didn't draft Rey-Rey? From what I've heard is that he's so use to playing in space, he might not be able to prosper having to fight off blocks. JL is just a tackling machine. What's your take? Thanks as always.

Jeff Gordon: The Rams need their MLB for pass coverage, too, and that is why they went with Laurinaitis.

dave cobler: Hello Gordo;

I understand the retaliation of the team whose player is struck by a pitch intentionally, but I don't understand the retaliation when the first batter is struck unintentionally and retaliation is followed up by the other team. What if Hardens "intentional hit the batter pitch" were to strike Albert unintentionally in the head. It just seems to me that that pitch could get away from him just as easy as Wellemeyers pitch got away from him. Unintentional hit batters are apart of baseball. Nobody likes it. TLR says a major leaguer should have enough control that pitches hit to the head should not occur. Sorry, but I do not agree. Everyone is human and that element makes all pitchers a candidate to error terribly. If TLR truly believes what he says I would think Wellemeyer is no longer qualified to be a major league pitcher. My attitude is "LETS BE REAL ABOUT THIS"! If there is any doubt that a pitcher intentionally hits a batter the bumb ought to be thrown out of the game, fined and suspeneded. If it is viewed to be merely an accident go on and forget about it. I guess my point is, "throwing a baseball at someone with the intent to hit them is dangerous, is not in the interest of sportsmanship and should not be tolerated". It just seems to me that that is a good way for things to get out of hand and serious incidents occur. Your thoughts?

Thanks Jeff!

Jeff Gordon: TLR is right to rip pitchers for hitting guys in the head. So he was right to be miffed at Todd, even if that was just an accident. That is dangerous and unacceptable. Wellemeyer has to be better than that.

Harden handled his business correctly, aiming for Albert's rump. Pujols got it, TLR got it and the teams moved on like professionals. I had no problem with how the Cubs responded.

dave: Jeff, I had such high hopes for this draft and then came the third round reach but lets not even discuss that since I am sure they could justify this one. I also respectfully disagree with Bernie on Larinitus vs. Monaluga I think the Rams got this one right as do alot of other NFL teams that passed on Monaluga. To the real head scratcher, what was Billy thinking with that QB pick in the sixth round from who knows where university??? This guy was destined to go undrafted. The Rams just wasted a sixth round pick on a guy that no one really believes will make the roster. Why?? Did Mike Martz call Rams Park? We could have signed another FA QB that can play at the NFL level rather than waste a pick a guy that wont be here in September. We could have picked up an OL/DL guy that might have made the roster. This really seems like a waste. Tell me why I'm wrong, please tell me I'm wrong and make me feel better about the draft.

Jeff Gordon: The Rams believe Null can earn the No. 3 spot. The new offensive coordinator helped make the call on this one. Big guy, big arm, good enough feet. Because the Rams got an interesting RB in the seventh round, this pick became more palatable.

Dave C: Jeff , I would like your imput into 2 moves I thought the Rams should have done in the 2nd and 5th rounds -

2nd round - I felt the should have tried to trade up (move up 6 positions)late in the round to get William Beatty from Conneticut.I realize that this would have been the 2nd left tackle drafted by us.One of them could have been groomed for the right tackle position and this would have solidified our O-line at the tackle position for years to come.

5th round - I felt we should have tried to move up (10 spots) and grabbed Jasper Brinkley from South Carolina.Again , I realize that this would be LB # 2 drafted , but this kid is BIG and would add some much needed size to our LB corp.

Maybe these guys were on our radar if they "fell into our slot" , but considering what we drafted , would you have made these moves ?

Jeff Gordon: They got a quality MLB candidate in the second round, so I didn't see the need to go for a second tackle there. Worry about that spot next year, when Barron leaves. The Rams D needed to get more stout and Laurinaitis helps right away.

With each of the later picks, the Rams went for need. I think they did OK not moving up.

Tackleberry: I was a fan of the Rams' draft, as they seemed to continually fill "needs" with their picks. While I figured only certain receivers would fit their drafting need, I was surprised that they didn't get a running back. I was sure they would have picked Greene in the 3rd round had the Jets not swooped in and taken him. If you look at all of the teams that have had success over the last two seasons, one common thread for their offense is dual running backs. No disrespect to Darby or Leonard, but how do you see the Rams filling this void now?

Jeff Gordon: They might have gone for Greene had that trade not occurred, but that's life. The Rams get to assess Ogbonnaya right away and see if he can step in behind Jackson. If he doesn't impress, then the team will be on the lookout for a veteran back.

Griff21: Who backs up Mason next year? There is an impressive list of FA goalies hitting the market. should we go with one of them , trade , or let Bishop see what he can do? Who would you like to see here?

Jeff Gordon: There will be lots of FA vets to pick from. Look for the Blues to grab one and send Bishop to Peoria for a year of full-time work.

DisCard: Now the real challenge begins. In my mind the scenario has always been what happens if Carp goes down and another pitcher falters. I felt the Cards could survive Carp’s loss based on Boggs performance last year. He’s not pretty, but he’s gritty and a gamer. It was always a danger Wellemeyer or Pineiro would prove ineffective. Wellemeyer may yet put it back together, but if not where do the Cards go next?

Why do the Cards lefty relievers seem so ineffective against right-handed hitters? Isn’t this looked at when they are signed? Historically, the Cards’ lefties have seemed far more versatile.

Jeff Gordon: I like Reyes this year. He isn't giving up a whole lot. Miller . . . don't like him, joining the chorus there.

Boggs was encouraging. He may yet land in the bullpen as a long guy, but he earned himself a few more starts in Carpenter's place.

After Boggs, (gulp) Thompson is probably the next guy. Mortensen is progressing at Memphis, but he is walking too many batters.

If I'm Mozeliak, I'm taking a serious look at all the Paul Byrd types sitting out looking for work. The Cards are getting lots of help from the system this year (Motte, Perez, Boggs, Rasmus), so the organization can afford to buy a veteran just to be sure.

Griff21: Goalies take the longest to develop of all NHLers. Which path would seemingly help Bishop develop best... spending a season in Peoria starting a majority of the games... Or backing up Mason playing maybe once a week, but being around Wamsley & a higher caliber of players and coaching ?

Jeff Gordon: Bishop benefiting from working hard at this level with NHL coaches. Now he needs to play a bunch of AHL games to make the transition from college hockey.

Griff21: GO BANDITS! Beating Topeka to advance in the hunt for a third consecutive championship!!! WUHOO!

Jeff Gordon: Good for them.

Griff21: Even though it is early in the season the pitching worries me. Starters don't go deep in games, the bullpen is getting overtaxed and worn out. I saw a stat that our bullpen has pitched the most innings in the majors so far. If this trend continues even the best offense in the league won't be able to overcome that.

Jeff Gordon: The loss of Carpenter, combined with Wellemeyer's struggle, combined with some long-relief failure, has created a concern. The back of the bullpen has settled nicely.

Clayton B.: A few question
1. Would the rams be interested in the Leroy Hill from Seattle now that they just released him?
2. Are the rams looking at picking up Toomer for some veteran leadership at the WR position, if not who are they looking at?
3. Is Jason Smith going to play left or right tackle?
4. What did the rams not like about Rey Maualuga?
5. Are the rams interested in Sheldon Brown from the Eagles?
Thanks for answering them

Jeff Gordon: We've covered some of this . . .

Smith could play either side, depending on how Barron progresses.

Sheldon Brown would would likely command more cap space than the Rams currently have. Devaney seems more interested in depth guys right now, but he will keep assessing all potential FAs.

Steve B.: Gordo

Was I dreaming this, or did the Seahawks get a first round pick next year for their second round pick, then turned around and got back into the second round with a 4th and a 6th? Whoa! Can we get their trade negotiator to defect to the Rams?

Sounds like the gut who kept trading until his paper clip became a house!

Steve

Jeff Gordon: Tim Ruskell got high praise for his pick maneuvers, but he shouldn't get excited about that 2010 pick. He should be more concerned about turning around his 4-12 record this year.

A better question is this: What was Denver thinking?

dcrams20: Gordo: I think the draft went ok - especially Day 1. However, I was a little disappointed that the Rams didn't trade out of the #2 pick (no disrespect to Jason Smith). With all the teams drooling over Sanchez, it looked like the perfect opportunity. What did the Jets offer? Did the Rams make a counter-offer? Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: The Jets gave up relatively little to move up to No. 5 -- Kenyon Coleman, Brett Ratliff and Abram Elam, plus a second-round pick. The Browns loved Abram, but he would have been a back-up here. Ditto for Coleman.

So, no, the Jets never got close to meeting the Rams' price. Devaney would have needed something like a No. 1, a No. 2 and a No. 4 to get interested.

WhyNotRay?: Gordo, Hey, I'm sure you will get this question a ton today but I couldn't help but put in my 2 cents worth. What we have needed for a long time is a BIG, NASTY MLB who would intimidate the opposing runner and knock them into next week. The perfect guy for the job was sitting there for us to take in the 2nd round and we went with a more well rounded MLB. I think he will end up being a good MLB but he will NOT be that intimidating smash mouth MLB that we needed. I don't want to hear about 3 down LB blah blah blah, most of the time the team goes to nickel on 3rd down anyway. What REALLY gives here? Was it a character issue, and if so, what was it?

Jeff Gordon: There were issues with Maualuga, which is why he fell to where he did. A lot of teams had concerns about off-field stuff, in addition to his one-dimensional play.

Ken: Hi Jeff,
Did the Rams try to trade up from the 2nd round to draft either Nicks or Britt or did they feel they might slide to them with the 35th pick? I think it was a mistake not to jump in front of the Giants & Tennessee.
Thanks,
Ken

Jeff Gordon: The Rams did try to move up, but failed. They didn't like Britt, but they loved Nicks.

Jake - Jefferson City: Gordo,

I know player-for-player trades in the NFL are relatively rare, but do you know if the prospect of trading Adam Carriker for Glenn Dorsey has been discussed? Dorsey is NOT a 3-4 NT, and doesn't seem to fit at all with the direction the Chiefs are heading. Carriker is more custom-made for a 3-4 DT, similar to what the Chiefs are transitioning towards. Seems like a good quid pro quo, and given that we released Pace and Holt to clear up some cap space, the cap implications of such a trade could potentially be mitigated (just speculating here). What is your opinion on this?

Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: Dorsey was a massive disappointment in K.C. The new staff wants to see what Carriker can do with two healthy shoulders. Dorsey may have great upside, especially in this defense, but Spagnuolo will be cautious about the personalities he adds to his mix.

Len: Hi Jeff,

Very happy with the results from the draft. If all we did was pick up a stud lineman and a good middle linebacker then Im thrilled. I'd like to know, since we werent able to get that top WR in the draft which veterans are out there that we can pick up, and who do you feel may be released due to the draft results.

Thanks

Jeff Gordon: The Rams will watch the WRs who get cut. For the record, Spagnuolo sees no crying need at the position. That can change quickly, depending on which guy gets let loose.

Ted Bug: Gordo,

It was painfully obvious that the Blues PowerPlay is what kept it out of the series, is there a rational explanation for the lack of skating by Blues forwards in the offencive zone? I was at both home games...with good seats where the Blues shoot twice, and I couldn't believe the lack of effort or creativity employed by this team, if the Blues could actually get in the zone....they would stand in one spot and double clutch the puck on every pass. How can a team actually play worse with more people on the ice and more space?

Why do the Blues have so many players who cannot shoot a one timer?

How did the Blues amass a group of defencemen who have zero ability to shoot the puck? Is this something the team looks for in player evaluations?
Do the Blues have any plans to fix this problem or are they just going to stick with the status quo?

Jeff Gordon: Erik Johnson is their power play quarterback and he missed all season. Paul Kariya was supposed to direct things off the half wall, but he missed most of the season. Those two will change everything next year.

Brewer was missed as well, although he isn't great on the PP.

Even without these three, the Blues PP was outstanding until the Canucks series.

Look for Oshie, Perron and Berglund to contribute more next year as they develop.

Mitch from San Diego: Hi Jeff,

Why was the 66th overall pick expended on what I was told was the 43rd best cornerback in the draft? That guy could have been picked in the sixth or seventh round. Looking at the players drafted after him demands an explanation. And what happened to the zero tolerance with this person's DUI charge? Or did they even know about that?

Looking at the players Devaney drafted on Sunday and comparing them to what was available was a nightmarish trip back to the the Bobby Beathard (Devaney's mentor) days of the Chargers where valuable picks were squandered on small school "nuggets" that nobody ever heard of or what others considered damaged goods. Beathard considered himself some sort of maverick by making these kinds off the wall picks.

I remember one year when Beathard AND Devaney where so in love with a prospect (RB Terrell Fletcher) that they traded the Chargers next years first round draft pick to get him. He was a lightly regarded prospect that the prognosticators and draft publications said could be available in the fifth or sixth round. But not Maverick Bobby and his understudy, Billy. They mortgaged the charger's future on this guy and he ended up contributing like a fifth or sixth rounder, albeit a bad fifth or sixth rounder. And I won't even talk about Bobby, Billy and Ryan Leaf.

Forget Devaney's first and second round picks on Saturday. Anybody with a copy of any Saturday sports page could have made those picks. Beathard got big kudos for picking Junior Seau in the first round. Wow! That was a find!

It is how you draft in the later rounds that defines winners from losers.If pick three through seven flop you need to hold Devaney accountable.

Jeff Gordon: Devaney's draft panned out pretty well a year ago, despite the huge loss of Justin King to a camp injury. So I won't write off Day 2 just yet.

Bradley Fletcher's DUI charge was thoroughly investigated and the team is satisfied that he is a good guy. Spagnuolo wanted a big corner capable of playing "press" coverage and the scouts liked him a lot of the East-West Game.

Was he a reach? We'll see when he plays. Same for Scott and Foster, two guys with tools but less production, for a variety of reasons.

Ruben: Thanks for taking my question. In my opinion, free agency and the draft was a good start for Rams. However, it looks as though the team is still 2 or 3 years away from competing for a playoff victory. What more do you think they will need this year to get back to 5-8 victories?

Jeff Gordon: The areas where they appear weak now -- WR depth, RB depth, LB depth -- will have to improve due to the progress of players on hand. There are a lot of wild cards there, especially at WR with Avery and Burton.

Fresno Ram Fan: Hey Jeff, How do you rate the Rams draft? Are you suprised we didnt go Defense heavy in the draft?

Jeff Gordon: The Rams went MLB, CB and DT with picks two through five, so that was significant. The top two guys will help right away, so it was a decent draft. To be a good draft, Fletcher, Scott and Foster have to pan out.

Fresno Ram Fan: Why Laurinitis over Maluaga? and why not draft DT Gilbert instead of the DB in the 3rd? thanx

Jeff Gordon: Spagnuolo wanted to get bigger at CB, where Hill is iffy and Wade may not excite the coaches. I would have locked up Craft, based on his decent play last year, and not reached so high for a CB, but that's just me.

Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff and Thank You for taking my question. What goalie's that will be free agents this summer, do you feel would be good pick up for the Blues? I think another season in Peoria would be good for Ben Bsiop.
Thank You
Scott

Jeff Gordon: Let's see which guys get deals with their teams and which ones don't. A younger guy like Scott Clemmensen would be ideal. Or an older guy like Manny Fernandez, who played well early for Boston last year before getting hurt.

RamRod: Sir Gordon:
Is there any word yet on what undrafted free agents the Sheep might be bringing in? I think they should take a run at the defensive end from NU named Zach Potter - he is 6'7" and 280. Like the stork....

Jeff Gordon: The Rams were locking those guys up Sunday night. Check with the Rams blog for updates.

Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff, I have another Blues question. I have heard in the news that the Blues maybe looking for another Defensemen. I think between Brewer and Pietrangelo. We do not have a need. If Brewer comesback. We will have 6 good defensemen and Colaiacovo and Johnson on point for the powerplay. If Brewer does not comeback, we could have Pietrangelo and that would be 3 puck moving defensemen. I would like to know what you think.
Scott

Jeff Gordon: I like the group as is, with the returning players. Now, if Brewer can't play, then one more mid-level offensive defenseman would really help. Unfortunately, Junland didn't make a big move this year to be that guy.

magiardino: Gordo, I would have drafted Curry and Ebon Brittan (RT) in the first two rounds, and added the best run-stuffing DT in the third round to "free up" the linebackers. Only then would I have gone after the "reaches" that the Rams picked. Bradley Fletcher has potential but no track record. He got 2 stars out of 5 on a popular website and only started 1 year. The DT Scott got 3 stars but has many issues including tiring easily. We can only hope Devaney and company know what they are doing. I keep telling myself that Devaney brought in lots of free agents last year that played really well so he knows more than me. But I can't help feeling down about having to face Curry and Crabtree twice a year (aaaargh!).

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, I wrote about Ebon on Tipsheet. He is gung ho, eh? He and Curry (my preference in the first round) would have been sensational. But the Rams just couldn't pass on a tackle in the first round and hope for the best in round two.

FLRAMFAN: Hi Gordo, Kieth Null !!!!! 5100 passing yards and 48 TD's !!! Yikes. Those are some stout numbers. What kind of competition did he play against and do you think this guy is for real?

Jeff Gordon: That's D-II competition in a gimmick offense, so don't get too excited. His size and arm are more important than the fat numbers.

kingoftruth: Hi Gordo,

I was very pleased with the Blues progress in 2009, but 2 things concern me about the team for next season:

1) with the return of Johnson, will that alone be enough for the Blues to become effective at clearing the zone? for yrs, we were spoiled watching 2 of the best (Pronger & MacInnis), and it's been badly lacking here since they left. do the Blues need to look for more help there?

2) Mason was great down the stretch, but he's not an elite goalie who can steal a series. Are the Blues happy to go with Mason/Bishop next season? or Mason & a different backup (with Bishop getting most starts in Peoria)?

Thanks man

Jeff Gordon: Mason stole the Blues a playoff sport with three great months, so I'm OK with him as a starter. Get a better back-up and let Bishop develop.

We've talked about the D. If Johnson, Brewer and Pietrangelo all play next year, then you'll see better puck rushing and outlet passing. If Brewer can't play and Alex needs more time, then there might be need for more help.

Tackleberry: What is the timeline for Kinney's return to the big club?

Jeff Gordon: Indefinite -- his command hasn't improved at Memphis. Jess Todd would be the next man up for the bullpen.

patrickcarroll85: Jeff,

I know it will not be a few years until we really know about the 2009 draft, however, at first glance it seems like more of the same. Good, safe pick at #1, safe at #2 - they should of taken Malaluga (Jackson over Avery) and picks 5, 6, 7 left most experts scratching their heads. What are they doing and what do you think of the draft?

Jeff Gordon: I liked their later picks last year, so I'll give the later picks time this year.

patrickcarroll85: Jeff,

With the first selection in the 2010 draft, the Rams select?

Jeff Gordon: Sam Bradford.

Nick Rolando: Gordo, what are your thoughts about the Rams draft? I think it is a little early for people to start saying boom or bust. Blues, do they make any moves or keep what they have and expect growth? Finally, you think Mitchell Boggs can be a fixture on the Cardinals rotation? As always appreciate your responses.

Jeff Gordon: The Blues will be OK with the huge influx of returning and developing players. Maybe they need an offensive D if Brewer is done.

Boggs is a handy guy, likely destined for long relief. He knows how to pitch, so he could hold a rotation slot for a while with good run support. I can see him pitching for a long time in the majors, but more likely in a Brad Thompson-like role.

boro: Ok, no comment on draft for now. But I still think we need a SLB.
1. Do you agree?
2. What free agent could fill this need.

Jeff Gordon: The Rams like the LBs they have now because they added a MLB and they like Draft.

HEG: Gordo it looks as if the Cards are in same boat as last year from left-handed relievers; they might as well release Trevor Miller and maybe Reyes could help them; the Cards seem to be O.K. offensively but like most teams their pitching staff is suspect. I would like to see the Cards get a left-handed starter plus a left handed reliever to replace Miller; it looks as though the Rams filled most of their immediate needs but the OT & inside LB need to be able to contribute now. I was not surprised that Chase Daniels did not get drafted but Mizzou had a good showing overall in the draft; maybe Chase can make the Redskins squad.(I believe they offered him a free agent contract. Any comments on the above?

Jeff Gordon: Chase is a NFL longshot. He has worked to develop drop-back skills, but I don't think he can make all the throws. His regression last year was severe.

Miller is underwhelming in the pen. And, yes, they need a LH starter. Jaime Garcia will help next year, but it would be nice to have a lefty to fill the gap this year.

The offense is more than OK. Most of their rotation and the back of their bullpen look pretty good.

Cards4520: Mel Kiper gives us a "C" grade for the draft. He seems to be more wrong than right, in 2006 he said we had a good draft, and Klopenstein was an amazing tight end...wow...How would you grade the draft?

Jeff Gordon: With so many "reach" picks later in the draft, it is impossible to grade the group. The Rams gambled on some upside guys later, which isn't a bad strategy. Making a "safe" pick in the sixth round doesn't excite me.

steve: Gordo

Two parts: 1) I know its early, so far Greene has not hit for average or much pop. Yeah, I know he's better than Izturis, but the bar there is pretty low. More importantly, he has 5 errors. On a team that emphasizes ground balls, I am a little concerned about 5 errors when you have a converted OF playing 2nd and 1/2 a platoon at 3rd who has never played there at the major league level. What say you? Concerned?
2) If the Cards are in the thick of it in the summer and Glaus will not return, do you see STL making a move for a veteran 3rd baseman for this year? I know they are deep in the minors at this position, but it won't help in '09.

Thanks

Jeff Gordon: I see them sticking with the status quo unless it becomes obvious that Glaus won't return. In that case, Mozeliak might rent somebody if Barden and Thurston return to earth. Too soon to assess that.

Greene has made a lot of great plays, too. He has great range over there. He has to clean up the errors for sure, but I like his glove. And he is a big run-producer compared to Izturis.

cmbaskerville: Hi Gordo,

There's been a ton of criticism over the Ram's draft. Here's some examples:

Should have picked Sanchez or Curry; Laurinatis isn't as good as Maualuga; Fletcher was a reach; Scott is a bad character; is it Brooks Foster or Foster Brooks; Null has a noodle arm; wasn't there a better player than Ogbonnaya available; Etc.

For the most part I think the team did a good job filling it's need (except at WR, but there were too many holes to fill). Is this vehement criticism a symptom of last years record rather that the picks this year?

Jeff Gordon: Any time a team drafts guys near the bottom of the published draft assessments, the team will take heat. A year ago, the team got crushed for passing on Dorsey . . . and Dorsey was a complete and utter bust in KC.

All of this makes training camp and the preseason games more fun.

Lawarence Marmie: Doesn't the fact that the Rams drafted another CB show that Spagnoulo and the brain trust have no faith in Tye Hill being a contributing factor for this team?

Jeff Gordon: That may more to do with flagging interest in Jonathan Wade. Also, King has is an unknown to this point. And the coaches were in no hurry to bring back Craft.

OT RamFan: Pretty happy with a draft that has help on both sides of the ball and any evaluation is fun, but speculative. I look at this draft as the first year of a two year draft and the Rams should have much less uncertainty before the draft next year. Players will progress or they won't! When looking at next years draft prospects, one can see alternatives in most positions except...wide receiver. Next years seems to be a down year for potential picks at that position. Having said that, do you feel the Rams have to address this position through trade this year, they are really thin? If so, who has trade value, and who would be available to help the Rams? I know they say wait and see who becomes available when rosters are set, but they must have they eyes on someone. It's really their glaring weakness! Would hate to see us pass up a chance at the best player next year because we had no depth at receiver.

Jeff Gordon: The Rams have made one minor deal to add a WR. They could make another one, but I don't anything large along the lines of Boldin and Edwards.

It may turn out that Avery and Burton are the future and Stanley is a decent No. 3 or No. 4.

Brian: As usual the Rams draft looks decent through the first 2-rounds, but after that I think they started throwing darts at the board. The guy from Iowa and Clemson seem to be projects, but are gifted athletically. Shouldn't this administration be going for the guys that can make an impact right now? Who the heck is this qb they drafted?

Thanks again Rams for making me watch 2-full days of this draft with the hope of getting excited.

Jeff Gordon: Null is a guy with size and an arm. It might be fun to develop him. Then again, his position coach was Ryan Leaf.

The Rams did go for athletes with upside versus productive collegiate players with a lower ceiling. I don't mind that . . . as long as a couple of the guys hit.

Brian: Jeff,

So what kind of money will Chase Daniels be making signing a 2-year deal as a free agent? Also this is the first I have heard about a free agent (undrafted) signing a multi year deal.

Jeff Gordon: The only guarantee is whatever bonus he got. After that, term means nothing.

It does show an interest in developing him. Many teams wanted Chase as a FA, so he had a little leverage.

StSpiff: Some writers are arguing that the NHL should go back to divisional playoffs. I HATE that idea. We’d play 82 games just to determine whether we face Detroit or Chicago in the first round. Since home ice advantage has been neutralized by modern rinks, the only thing the regular season would determine is what sweater you wear. What’s your take?

Jeff Gordon: I agree with out. The old Chuck Norris Division playoffs were pretty ugly. I like the conference seeding.

mightymike105: hi Jeff,

While i think the draft was solid, one thing did bother me. That was the Rams not drafting much speed. It sure would have been nice to get another burner at WR. And while the corner is a big one he lacks the speed to keep up with the faster guys. Just looking at what was available to them at the time of these picks i think they could have gotten guys like these with more speed and as much ability. Time will tell but i thought the team could have gotten a bit more value.

Jeff Gordon: The Rams had a speed CB in corner, but wanted a more physical guy. I have no beef with that, with Arizona in the division.

It would have been nice to add a burner at WR, but they flew off the board.

rams26: Hello Jeff -

Thank you for these chats. Let me start by saying that I am happy with our draft. Do you know if Smith lineup on the left side or right side?

Thanks!

GO RAMS!!!!

Jeff Gordon: That depends on Barron. If the coaches believe Alex has to play left, then Smith will go right.

sean abrishami: what kind of impact can we expect from our new running back? what are brian leonard and pitman's roles?

and lastly, what kind of role do you see our new receiver having, and do you think he can contribute this year

Jeff Gordon: Leonard has his work cut out for him. Ogbonnaya is a nice combo back, like Leonard. That competition will be fun.

Ed C: Gordo,

I liked the Rams Rd 6 & 7 picks. Bernie didn't like them although he hedged a bit. Bernie said Null would have been undrafted but picks in the 6 & 7 rounds are populated with guys like this. And who says another team didn't have their eye on this guy or you can for sure sign a particular player after the draft? Null may have always wanted to be a Texan, you never know? Wasn't there a Denver Bronco named Davis who sat behind another RB during his college tenure and turned out to be a "pretty good" pro? And of course our own Kurt Warner was an obscure college QB who turned out pretty well. Not saying Null will be Warner but if the GM has a hunch on a particular guy then why not in the later rounds? I do think Bernie was right on with Mauluga vs Laurinitis.

Jeff Gordon: Null would have likely slid, since only Carolina brought him for a visit. But if the football guys fell in love, so be it.

Sixth and seven-round picks are longshots anyway, so shoot for the moon.

sean abrishami: how will spags scheme allow the players we have now to reach their potential, and which payers do not fit the type of players that he wants to run his defense?

Jeff Gordon: Since Steve doesn't want a pure nose tackle, that makes Ryan potentially more valuable. Laurinaitis could be a good MLB in this scheme. And Bartell has more value as a big corner.

sean abrishami: what needs do the rams still have? which players could potentially be replaced to better fit spags vision for the team? which positions have a starter, but are still considered weak to marginal besides wideout?

Jeff Gordon: I think the starters are set, outside of WR. This team needs safety depth. Another pass rushing DE would be nice.

Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff, I have one more Blues question. Is there a player in the system or free agent that would work well with David Backes to help him mantain his scoring touch? David Backes had a great season and I would love to see him continue. I think we will have 3 solid lines next season and if we could get a player to help Backes out, we would have 4 lines that could score.
Thank You
Scott

Jeff Gordon: A guy like Lars Eller, a playmaking winger, could be a good counterbalance.

Tackleberry: If Bulger produces a third straight lackluster season, where does that leave the Rams for the future? Even if they draft at the top again next year, they would be heavily relying on a rookie in 2010. If that were the case, they could be getting Matt Ryan or Ryan Leaf? Do they risk extending the rebuilding period by an entire season by relying on an uncontested Bulger this year?

Jeff Gordon: The reality is, the Rams had to deal with Bulger's contract this year. After this year, if Marc flops, there will be lots of available QBs with money left on their deals. They don't have to go the draft route.

sean abrishami: what would reasonable expectations for bulger this year be? its my understanding that the west coast offense holds high regard for intelligence and accuracy--this seems to fit marc's abilities. i believe he will bounce back, is there reason to be less optimistic?

Jeff Gordon: The fact he has been horrible the last few years is reason enough to be less optimistic. Blocking alone won't bring him back. He has to make it happen.

Lawarence Marmie: Are as estatic as I am that we didn't draft one "lovie-type player"? I never want to see another fast, undersized player with minimal football skills drafted for this team as long as I live.

Jeff Gordon: Again with the Lovie shots. When will it end?

Ray: Jeff:
I thought Malauga in the second and one of the defensive lineman (Michael Johnson, Jarron Gilbert), or a WR in the third would have made this a better draft. I heard there were some concerns with Malauga's off the field stuff, but there was nothing too alarming. The guy is a sideline to sideline, high intensity linebacker...we need that!! Your thoughts?

Ray

Jeff Gordon: He dropped that far for a reason.

stan: When the Rams took took Foster in the 5th round, it seems like there were still quality O-linemen on the board -- notably, Jamon Meredith and Duke Robinson, who came off the board immediately thereafter. I know there are attitude and commitment questions about both of those guys, but was passing on them a mistake? Wouldn't either one of them have done more to shore up O-line depth than Foster will to improve the receiving corps (notwithstanding the weakness of the receiving corps)? Were you surprised generally that the Rams didn't pull in more large-body types?

Jeff Gordon: The WR need was desperate. Desperate!

Lawarence Marmie: How were Rams personnel able to function without their spirtual leader and draft guru- Jay Zygmutt? Were they wondering around like a bunch of lost puppies?

Jeff Gordon: Somehow, they go through it.

real ram fan from cali: Good morning and thanks for the chat .....I get sick of hearong ram fans complain....I myself think we had a good draft Or first two picks was good need picks....and I think we got two good players that could be here for a while,,,,and yesterday we go a DT that can play soon and a DB with good upside great job rams so what do you think

Jeff Gordon: Well, they filled needs. From the third round on they might have reached to fill needs, but we'll see.

Camp will be fun.

TonyB: Overall, I like what we did, but two picks have bugged me since they were made:

1. Even giving Laurinitis the nod on maturity and coachability, that pick sure feels like one we could regret given that Maualuga has the potential to be an absolute force against the run. Bernie M. has made that point and I think I agree with it. I like Laurinitis, but if you watched him in college you have to wonder if he is a true hole filler at the next level, many of his tackles came a few yards downfield.

2. I was very surprised to see the Rams take the CB out of Iowa when the CB out of Vandy, forget his name, was still available. Fletcher sounds like a special teams guy, dime back, or convert to safety, at best ... the Vandy CB sounded an awful lot like a legit NFL corner in the clippings I read. Not saying Fletcher can't play, but at the top of the 3rd???

Jeff Gordon: The Laurinaitis/Maualuga comparison reminds me of the Dorsey/Long debate last year. The Rams took Long, got ripped . . . and got the better guy. Same thing could happen this year.

At corner, the Rams wanted a "press" guy. The fact he could also slide to safety, ala Bartell, was a plus given the lack of depth at that position.

chicagocardinal: We will know how well this draft went by playing Curry and Crabtree twice a year. I would rather take the "can't miss" defensive player and settle a little furthe down for OL help than the way the Rams did it.

Laurinaitis to the NFL looks to me like Hansbrough to the NBA. Great college player who will be just so-so at the next level. Think E.J Hawk and Tom Cousineau.

Easy for me to say from the comfort of my computer and without having ever met any of these players in person, but I would have drafted:

1) Curry LB - best defensive player in the draft and woeful need
2) Britton OT -- i like his posty-draft comments!
3) Johnson S -- corey chavous with legs
4) Sidburg DL -- don't like the SEC player w/motivation problems
5) Ringer RB -- who knows? better than the texas guy in the 7th
6) Painter QB -- Kyle Orton incarnate? better him than Leaf's pupil.
7) Any of the following seemed worth a flyer more than the Texas RB here
Lankster DB
Byrd WR
Mickens DB
Follett LB

Jeff Gordon: Pretty good list. The Rams could have taken Curry and gotten a potential starting OT. I wanted the home-run hitter on that side.

eternalramnation: Gordo,

A couple of questions regarding the Rams draft

Is Smith penciled in at LT and Barron moving back to RT or will Smith start out on the right side? If he starts on the right side seems like a lot of money to pay for a right tackle.

Also, why didn't the Rams take a flyer on Demetrius Byrd with the 6th or 7th round pick? The kid was projected as a 3rd round pick before the car accident he was involved in.

Thanks

Jeff Gordon: That was a pretty bad wreck. I don't know what his recovery looks like.

As for RT/LT, that will depend on what Barron does best. The Rams need to get another year out of him.

Stumped Mitchell: Bradley Fletcher? Really, that much talent on the board and that's what we come up with? I always will defer to these guys, but I watch a ton of football and that Oklahoma Receiver sure made a lot of plays in the games I was watching. Any thoughts?

Jeff Gordon: Spags wanted his defensive holes filled and he got them filled. I didn't like any of the WRs that high at that point.

aleex fan of the rams in Mexico: who is your favorite pick of the rams in the draft? And also Fletcher is gonna be CB or S? Thanks

Jeff Gordon: Cornerback. And Brooks Foster intrigues me.

Stumped Mitchell: Spaeking for Rmas fans worldwide, the city would have been doing backflips with Mauluaga in the second round. I have no problem with Animal Jr., but this team needs to sell tickets and that guy I would pay to see.

Jeff Gordon: But can he defend the pass?

Stumped Mitchell: Did we sign any notable undrafted players?

Jeff Gordon: There are some big school guys, but I don't know enough about them to get excited. Most are just camp bodies.

Stumped Mitchell: Nobody in the war room thought Rashard Jennings in the 6th round was worth a flier? We could have gotten that QB in the 7th.

Jeff Gordon: I know Jim Thomas liked Jennings with that pick. And, yes, Null likely falls to the Rams in the seventh.

ronjon1702: Gordo! What is up with the sports tab at the top of the stltoday.com webpage. It used to say cards then rams, now it says cardinals then stats!?!? The rams deserve a little more than respect, possibly even the blues.Also with that said, will the Athletica get a tab of their own?

Jeff Gordon: Athletica has a ways to go for that . . .

TulsaRam: Jeff, the Rams typically make two types of draft mistakes, they don't pick players that fit their system and they reach and don't get maximum value out of the picks. They seemed to have fixed the first problem in that all the picks fit Spags system, but in day two they reached on every pick. I think they could have made another pick in round three and still gotten everyone one of their later picks a round later. Sometimes you have to gamble to get maximum value. Your thoughts?

Jeff Gordon: That is the debate. The Rams had specific needs and wanted specific types of players, so they went up and grabbed them.

Mike: Hey gordo!

Do you see the Rams signing a free agent WR now. Possibly Toomer? Thanks gordo

Jeff Gordon: Spagnuolo has consistently downplayed that, but we'll see if the Rams change their view.

Mark Applegate: Why is Skip Shoemaker being shielded so much from 2nd base? If he is going to "stick" don't we need to play him some there?

Jeff Gordon: With other infielders hitting well, why not ease him in?

virginiatom: What if Baron does well at LT? If they don't think he will then why put him there and if they think he will, why draft Smith and put him at RT when we could have used the pick on a fanchise quarterback or impact player? If Baron does well at LT, it would be stupid to let him go just because we wasted a #2 pick on somebody we may not need. Seems like this wasn't planned out very well.

Jeff Gordon: The Rams just want to get another year out of Barron. LT, RT, whatever. They needed a tackle and they got one. Did you want to see Goldberg play RT with no quality defense.

Ramsfan: People keep asking about wr's and you say Spags isn't interested. Don't you think he is not interested because we don't have a qb that could complete a pass to a wr?

Unless, he benches mr nonchalant.

Jeff Gordon: He likes his QB and he likes the WRs he has right now.

RamsfanMark: Hey Gordo! When the draft first ended I was not real sure about our second day, but after looking at some tape and reading more about these guys I feel pretty good. I listened to everyone over the weekend say how this was not a draft with a lot of great talent. I also have a great respect for our new coaching staff and trust they know much more about these guys than any of us ever will plus look at where Joe Montana came from.

Is there any one of the second day picks you feel was a great pick? Go Rams!

Jeff Gordon: Again, Brooks Foster is intriguing.

Mike: Hey Gordo got another one for you. As of now who are the starting Offencive linemen?

Jeff Gordon: A guess: Barron, Bell, Brown, Greco, Smith

Mike: How does Bulger feel knowing we tried to trade him for Mark Sanchez? Is this going to create another Cutler problem?

Jeff Gordon: No, he's more mature than that.

Mike: Jeff,

With the draft over and seeing all that money going to rookies do you think in the next cba the NFL will change the way rookies are paid?

Jeff Gordon: Let's hope so. That money should go to proven vets instead.

clfinc: Gordo

Does it make you nervous when Adam Wainwright pinch hits, knowing that Chris Carpenter got hurt hitting?

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, it's the Woody Williams syndrome. The oblique injury is one reason why you don't do this. The other would be suffering a broken hand on a bunt.

4-6-3: Gordo,

With a good start do you think the poor defense and lack of pitching depth are being overlooked? It's great that Pujols is finally getting some support that he's lacked over the past couple seasons and the results aren't surprising there but I fear the errors and pitching are going to cost some key victories this season.

Jeff Gordon: Ludwick gave Pujols good support last year. Ditto Glaus. And Ankiel did when healthy.

Pitching depth is still an issue. Defense I'm not as worried about, especially with Greene.

eternalramnation: Gordo,

If the Rams are looking to get one more year out of Barron, why put him at left tackle? He wasn't pro bowl material on the right but he's more then servicable. Barron has to know this is his contract year and if he plays to the potential that he was drafted on he'd be in for a nice payday next year.
Personally I'd really be disappointed if our new shut down left tackle, the second pick in the draft who'll probably get around 35 million in guaranteed money, can't beat out Alex Barron.

Jeff Gordon: If Barron is way better on the left side than the right, then play him there and win more games this year.

Lawarence Marmie: How is the UFL draft going to work? Are Jim Haslett and the boys in that league going to get their pickings of what no NFL team wanted from this one?

Jeff Gordon: I don't know what's up with the UFL -- my guy Haslett is working with us here at KFNS now.

Lawarence Marmie: Are you as shocked as I am that a Scott Linehan Team (Lions) picked a tight end high in the draft? Why didn't he just get the Lions to trade with the Rams for your boy Klop?

Jeff Gordon: Ah, the Klop. Let's hope that Chase Coffman doesn't pattern himself after this cat.

TheFanatic: Can you name a worse WR corps in the league than the Rams? Why did we wait so long to make a pick at that position? Love our first two pick. I have no problem with the guy we took 3, but I would've liked to have seen a WR there.

Jeff Gordon: A healthy Avery and a healthy Burton might surprise you at WR. But on paper, yes, that is scary.

TheFanatic: Now I know why Spags (or was it Devaney) said he would like to draft a QB every year. Null out of West Texas AM? Seems a special team guy with potential would be a more useful choice there. What did they see from this kid?

Jeff Gordon: Size and arm.

Joebon: Any chance the Blues will go after a free agent goalie?

Jeff Gordon: A very good chance, yes.

funkem420: How could the Rams pass on Curry, Rey M. and J. Gilbert in the third? Our front seven would have been upgraded immensely. I know I'm not a coach but as a fan I have an opinion and right now I'm not too impressed. Thanks for the forum.

ACortez

Jeff Gordon: Well, this team has to block. The tackle hole was massive. That had to be filled.

TheFanatic: Gordo,

Thanks for doing this.

Cards Pitching - I have not heard the prognosis on Lohse after the MRI. Been out of the loop a bit.

Also, what is the deal with Wellemeyer? Does he flip a coin before every start - "Heads I keep the ball down, Tails, I leave it up?" He seems to be two different pitchers from game to game....

Jeff Gordon: Kyle is fine. Close call there.

As for Todd, yikes -- that lack of command is alarming.

eternalramnation: Gordo,

No disrespect I truly enjoy these chats you do every week, and last time I'll bring it up, but I would think the Rams would have a inkling of what type of left tackle Barron would be before the draft. Guess we'll find out soon enough, training camp is just around the corner, but I can't wrap my mind around drafting a shut down left tackle and then not inserting him into his natural position. To me that would be like the post dispatch hiring the hottest sales person in the country to sell advertising and then put him customer service handling complaints of not getting the paper in the morning.

Jeff Gordon: Tackle is tackle. Jason played DE coming in, then switched to TE, then played both tackles. As he said, he plays football.

Lawarence Marmie: What's going on with my Yankees? Getting swept by the Red Sox? I feel like a piece of me died a terrible death this weekend.

Jeff Gordon: I hope you and your friends are buying some of those unsold luxury seats. What a fiasco!

That's it for this week. See you next Monday.