drelboc: Hi Jeff;
It's looking more and more like the RED FLAGS that were hung up at the beginning of the season are beginning to blow. We can't hit with men on base and our pitching falls just short.
I have been a strong advocate to get an "impact bat" to protect Pujols for a long time. He, the team and the fans deserve that. Is not Busch getting great attendance again? It is just a tragedy that we do not have an impact bat to protect Pujols so he can see some good pitches.
If I sound frustrated it is because I am. Here we have one of the greatest hitters to ever step up to the plate and he rarely sees good strikes to swing at.
Your thoughts...
Thanks Gordo! |
Jeff Gordon: Albert is batting .237 with runners in scoring position and .200 with RISP and two outs. So he needs to be part of the solution, not part of the problem. In an otherwise MVP-caliber year, he has been strangely unable to drop the hammer at key points in games.
By comparison. Troy Glaus is hitting .281 with RISP and .296 with RISP and two outs. He has just two homers, but otherwise has offered some heft to the middle of the batting order.
That said, the Cards would love to add an "impact bat" at some point. But until they have a serious pitching surplus, they won't have the leverage to make such a deal. In the meantime, the Cards need Glaus and, yes, Chris Duncan to drive the ball -- because Ludwick can't possibly keep this up! |
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Gil Mueller: Hi, Gordo
Again my thanks for your enjoyable forum. Do you see any market for Anthony Reyes? Related pitcher-value question - Can you speculate why TLR decided to use Izzy two days in a row? Surely that strategy was questionable - at best. |
Jeff Gordon: Izzy pitched two days in a row because he is sturdy enough to do that and other relievers were fatigued. But he wasn't sharp, obviously, in the second outing.
If he turns out Jason can no longer throw on back-to-back days, then he will have to finish out his career here in middle relief. And would he really volunteer for that role? |
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Rich: I read Al Saunders wants to make Jackson the focal point of the offense which makes sense. However, I am concerned the Rams don't have a proven north-south runner on the roster to help share the load like Stephen Davis did in the 06 season.
Alexander was done in by too many carries and Larry Johnson and Tomlinson appear to be well on that path and I can see the same thing happening with Jackson in the next year or two especially considering his injury history. |
Jeff Gordon: Davis was OK as a back-up, gaining 4.4 yards per carry. Neither Brian Leonard or Antonio Pittman were THAT effective last season, although the offensive line woes contributed to that. With Leonard seemingly ticketed for a bigger special teams role, that moves Pittman front and center in this discussion. He doesn't have the thunder thighs, but he could become an intriguing No. 2. It's hard to judge his '07 work because he came to the team on the fly and played in a chaotic situation.
He will get the ball a LOT during the preseason. If he doesn't step up, the Rams could be in the market for another big back as other teams make cuts. After all, that is how they got Pittman in the first place.
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Fresno Ram Fan: Hey Gordo,
When is the F.O going to realize that Chavous isnt what he once was? I believe in order for this defense to get better, we need hard hitting safeties who will punish WR's when they come up the middle. Any word of any free agent cuts? |
| Jeff Gordon: Nothing sexy right now on the safety front, but I agree with you -- Chavous was OK, I suppose, but this defense could use a bigger playmaker in that spot. |
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| Gabriel 2 Snow: Hey Gordo, Is the atmosphere & attitude among the Ram players & staff really much better than the previous 2 years? Or is this overblown? |
| Jeff Gordon: The mood was better -- but then again, anything would be better than how the team felt at the tail end of the 3-13 collapse. Saunders and the other new assistant coaches bring new life. Devaney is a positive guy, too. But are the players really buying in? We'll know more about halfway into training camp when the team is trying to improve for real. |
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| jeredwinfrey: HI JEFF, I WONDER HOW HASLET AND DIFFERENT PEOPLE REFER TO BROWN AS OUR BEST CB? I THINK NFL QUARTERBACKS USUALLY STAY AWAY FROM YOUR BEST CB. I WATCH ALL OF THE RAMS GAMES AND IT SEEMS TO ME WHEN EVER BARTEL IS IN THE GAME QUARTERBACKS STAY AWAY FROM HIM, THEREFORE THE RECIEVERS HARDLY GET ANY CATCHES. I ALSO DON'T SEE HIM BEEING BURN'T FOR TD'S VERY MUCH. LIKE WHEN HE WAS COVERING OWENS, GALLOWAY, AND ETC. THEY REALLY HAD NO EFFECT ON THE OUTCOME OF THE GAME. WHEN BROWN TOOK HIS STARTING ROLE BACK OVER IT SEEMED LIKE THE QUARTERBACKS LOVED THROUGHING HIS WAY AND WITH MUCH SUCCESS THE REST OF THE SEASON. ONE EXAMPLE BUT I COULD CHOOSE MANY IF I WANTED TO IS WHEN HE WENT UP AGAINST BRAYLON EDWARDS AND HE HAD 10+ CATCHES AND ALSO TD'S. WHY WOULD BARTEL NOT START AND WHY WOULD THEY CONSIDER MOVIN HIM TO SAFETY? THANKS |
| Jeff Gordon: Bartell is OK, but the coaches don't believe his overall cover skills match up to Brown and Hill. He has made himself a solid NFL cornerback and he does have the size, as you mention, to match up against some of the bigger receivers. If Ron becomes a better CB than Brown or Hill, he'll play -- because a lot of jobs are at stake this season. |
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Little Ed: Greeting Gordo
There are some players on the market that could help our Rams out like, Gregg Wesley from K.C. he could help Tye out , Joe Horn is wanting out of the ATL and he could bring some help on the reciever core we have. Takeo Spikes could bring also some extra help to the LB position. These players
have the talent, just need a team, STL. could be a good fit. |
Jeff Gordon: The folks in Atlanta say that Horn's legs are gone. The Falcons will cut him at some point and take the hit, but I don't see him coming here. Caldwell looked surprising good at WR at the minicamp and the Rams like their rookies.
Spikes is sort of the same deal. He just isn't the guy he once was. The Rams do like their younger LBs, although you have to wonder if Culberson really offers enough competition/depth. |
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| Eric<----: Hey Gordo, thanks for taking the time. Rams question. I recently read that RB Lance Ball was added, is there a possibility he makes the team? He put up good #'s in college, why'd he go undrafted? Also, How is Antonio Pittman doing in camp? Is he a lock behind Steven Jackson, assuming Leonard's play fullback...By the way, did you know "Gordo" means "fat" in spanish? Cali Rams fan... |
Jeff Gordon: Yes, I know Gordo means "fat." In the old days of the KFNS Chevy's Press Box, Chevy's Fresh Mex had a "Gordo Platter" that I took much ribbing over.
Pittman is positioned for a big role, but let's see what he really does with the Saunders offense. As for undrafted linebackers, these guys are typically productive college players who are either too small or too slow to star in workouts. Culberson fit that category and he had a great '07 camp. Sometimes these guys are just good football players . . . unlike the workout warriors. |
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| tim: Do you anticipate the blues to be active in free agency this year? |
Jeff Gordon: Not really. The front office has sent a clear signal about building from within. The Blues need to get more from vets like Andy McDonald and Paul Kariya next season; both have point-per-game skill. They need to get Stempniak back to his old self and Perron over the hump. There is a ton of statistical growth potential in those four guys right there, not to mention Oshie and Berglund coming into the mix.
Now, if the right mid-level scorer was there at the right price, the Blues would have to look at it. Or if the team was able to move a big salary from the blue line (McKee!)it might have more to spend. But remember, the team bucked up to lock in Boyes and Jackman last season, so they got a head start on their spending. |
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| tim: What position do you think Grecco will be best at in the NFL? |
| Jeff Gordon: Right tackle. The coaches like his adaptability, but this team's need is on the outside and that is where the Rams see him. Athletically, he could struggle at left tackle against the elite pass rushers. |
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| Dave S.: Hi Jeff - Is there a date that if the Cards are still in the race, say 2-4 games back, that they will go out and add a bat, another picture, something? Or do you think they will stand pat all year? Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: IF the Cards get their injured pitchers back, the front office will have to assemble some interesting trade package to capitalize on it assets. For now, though, they will keep looking within the organization for help. We've seen what Chris Perez can do. We've seen what McClellan can do. And Brendan Ryan. Down the road, Joe Mather, Bryan Anderson, Mitchell Boggs, Colby Rasmus and Jaime Garcia could help, too. |
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den-the-coach: Jeff,
Thanks again for taking the time. I am still somewhat concerned with the Rams depth at Offensive Tackle. Do the Rams plan on adding a Veteran or does Todd Steussie have anything left? At this point if something were to happen to Pace would the plan be Barron at LT and Goldberg at RT? Am I the only fan that would be concerned with Adam Goldberg at Right Tackle? I realize that maybe John Greco could be in the mix as well, but is he more of a Guard? |
| Jeff Gordon: Goldberg the at RT and Barron played LT in the minicamp, since Pace was still on the mend and limited to individual stuff. But Greco is very much being counted on to play RT next season, with Goldberg sticking in a utility role. |
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Mark in NY: Gordo,
What's with Bernie M. mentioning that Linehan was trying to send a message to Jim Haslett (stop ripping the head coach behind the scenes) by "flirting" with Gregg Williams of the Redskins? I have not read anything about this. Are the assistant coaches (along with the players) disrespecting Linehan too? Your thoughts please. Thanks! |
| Jeff Gordon: Haslett speaks his mind to reporters, on or off the record. There was tension for sure at the end of last season. And Haslett made it pretty clear he wanted Dorsey over Long in the draft. So it will be interesting to see how the group moves forward, with a still-learning head coach flanked by two strong coordinators head coaching experience/aspirations. |
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| HEG: Gordo don't you think the cardinals need to put Ludwick in the line-up daily and put Duncan on the available trade list because his offense is diminishing & he will never make an efficient outfielder plus no room for him at first base. I believe they could get a prospect plus a draft choice for him; also the cardinals have a log jam in the outfield plus prospects in minor. Do you agree with this statement? |
Jeff Gordon: Long term, Duncan seems likely to move on because there isn't full-time work for him here. Ludwick has been productive from Day One as a Cardinal, Schumaker is a handy guy and Rasmus will make it at some point. Then there is Joe Mather, tearing up Class AAA ball.
In the near term, the Cards need Duncan to add some muscle versus RH pitchers and play competently in the field. He is capable of doing both, as we've seen before. |
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| Tom S.: Do you think the Blues might try to go after Brendan Shanahan or Curtis Joseph in the offseason? I would think this would be a smart move because it would help bring in some leadership that I think the team has lacked since they traded Doug Weight. Plus, you add an experienced backup goaltender and someone who could definetly help on the powerplay and you probably could get them relatively cheap. It would help because I would think ticket sales would go up even more since you would be bringing back 2 of the most popular players this team has ever had. |
Jeff Gordon: Well, the Blues do need a back-up GT capable to carrying the load if Manny's knee buckles. Bishop could be the guy by 2010, but what does the team do between now and then. Poor Toivonen never came back around last year -- not here, not in Peoria.
As for Shanahan, I don't see room for him AND Tkachuk at this point in their careers. |
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ray rakers: Hi Gordo!
I know I'm not the only Redbird fan who thinks Albert has become more of a "singles" hitter -- albeit a darn good one -- because he takes too many first pitch strikes. Many times its the only decent pitch he gets in a partiuclar at bat. Here's my question..Who, if anyone on the team, does he listen to on batting tips, suggestions, etc.??? |
| Jeff Gordon: Albert studies this stuff as intently as anybody. He will attack some first pitches, but he knows he has to play cat and mouse against pitchers. The other side pitches him differently than anybody else on this team. Many times he never see a real strike. Pitchers don't care as much about getting ahead of him because he hits well with two strikes. Rather, they want to get him to hit the pitch he wasn't looking for so he will dribble the ball up the middle (as on Sunday) or pop it up. |
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| Phil Morris: I noticed Brad Thompson sitting in the bullpen yesterday. I hadn't heard that he was coming back from Memphis yet. What's the deal? |
| Jeff Gordon: He is rehabbing his elbow injury. He will need to make several rehab outings for Memphis (or one of the other farm teams) before being ready to return. But will there be room for him when he is healthy? Again, this team will have a major pitching surplus at some point. |
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| Fyten: During the game yesterday, the commentators mentioned the Cardinals' great ability to strand men on base. During the same game, it was mentioned that a good portion of the home runs the Cardinals have hit have been solo home runs. Is it an unhappy coincidence that the Cardinals hit home runs in the rare instances when there is nobody on base? |
| Jeff Gordon: The Cards just aren't getting good at bats with men on base -- and that explains the lack of the blessed three-run homer. Instead, you see the harmless fly ball to center to strand too runners. This lack of clutch hitting has been contagious. |
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| Joseph R: Jeff, I'm still not real excited about the Ram's draft results, after hearing the company line from Ram's park. Have you seen or heard anything since then that has increased your enthusiasm for their choices? Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: I believe the Rams found guys to fill needs. Long will be a pleasant surprise to a lot of fans expecting a mere "effort" guy at defensive end. Avery will be the subject of much skepticism until he adapts from the collegiate spread offense to the highly detailed Saunders offense. |
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ramhntr: Jeff-
With the drafting of Chris Long and the reemergence of Leonard Little-little has been said about the progress of Clifton Ryan and Claude Wroten. I know it is May and we have 2 months before the start of training camp-but can you give us the buzz around the Rams organization about these 2 players? I think they will have a huge role in the play of the defensive line this year. Wroten appears to have been given one more chance to prove himself-here's hoping he takes advantage of the opportunity while Ryan showed some flashes of potential in 07-08. Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: Ryan is a solid football player. As for Wroten . . . well, we'll see. The ability is there. The opportunity is there, since the team passed on Dorsey. But he IS down to his third strike with this organization, for sure. |
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Thomas Turniawan: Hi Jeff;
So what ever happened to the Rams' plan to draft a young QB to groom for the future? Last I checked, we didn't even sign an undrafted QB after the draft.
Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: The pool of young QBs was very shallow and it dried up in a hurry. Linehan tried to convince some street FAs that he really will keep three QBs this season, but nobody bit after the draft. |
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ueaces: Hi Gordo!
Always love reading your columns and listening to you on the radio. I still wish the "Manly morning show" was still on.
Despite the recent slump by the Cardinals, I still beleive they are going to contend this year. As opposed to past years, there is a pool of talent on hand in the minors to draw from, and the startng pitching looks decent enough. The question I pose to you, is that many feel Joe Mather is now ready for the big leagues. Could we possible see a trade forth coming in clearing up an outfield spot for him? Thanks Gordo! |
Jeff Gordon: A rare fan of the Manly Morning Show! After Memorial Day, Jeff Vernetti and I will move into the noon-2 p.m. slot on KFNS. Please tune in.
Mather's emergence is notable, because the coaching staff liked him in the spring. He could add more power to the bench right now with his ability to fill in at third base and the corner outfield slots, like Spiezio. As he pushes for his shot at the majors, John Mozeliak has an opportunity to explore his options.
Right now, the Cards bench lacks power. Barton is a singles hitter, as are two of the infielders sitting out most nights. And then there is La Rue, strictly defensive-minded back-up catcher. |
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RamRice: First thanks Jeff for all your valueable info and opinions. I have four questions for you 1) What is the skinny on Dustin Frye? Coming out of Clemson he seemed to have the size and the smarts to be a immediate solid starting center in the league. Has Dustin been giving the opportunity to outshine Romberg? Romberg seems to allow to much push up the middle. Yes I understand the offensiveline injury situation last year.
These next two got together.
You talked about receiving responses from Chip that showed that he at least reads his email. Can you drop him a message about increasing face time of the team to fans via internet? It has gotten better each year but every year the Rams are out performed by other teams by putting more photos out from mini camp and video of camp the kinda things that fans crave. I’m not asking to give away game plan just more photos of players catching, blocking, tackling, etc. Why is this? Whom can fans contact to start the ball rolling on change?
Lastly, the columns have been portraying Torry in this disgruntle, seriously disgusted light. We haven’t seen the happy, smiley Torry since last year. In your opinion is he all in or just going through the motions?
Sincerely RamRice |
Jeff Gordon: Rams insides expect Torry to be in a good frame of mind for camp. The 3-13 was no fun and losing Bruce was no fun. But he is an "up" guy by nature. Saunders ought to bring him around, since Al knows how the Rams got the most from Torry during the glory days.
As for Fry, he was just awful in camp last year. The Rams kept him around as a practice squad guy because of his physical attributes and his collegiate productivity, but he REALLY struggled with the adjustment to pro ball. For Year Two, he faces heavy competition. The Rams have Romberg plus starting-caliber guards capable of playing center. |
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| Jeff Lange: It seems every year that more and more people talk about how good Dave Duncan is as a pitching coach. In fact many people, LaRussa included, call him the greatest ever. I was wondering if it is possible for him to be elected to the Hall of Fame when his career is over, whenever that may be. Also, is there any precedent for this? |
| Jeff Gordon: A good point. Great coaching specialists don't get the love. There ought to be a play for the Ray Millers and Dave Duncans of the world. But there really isn't. |
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| Ryan: What is the status of Ankiel? Will we see him in San Diego or will the shoulder need more rest? If rest is still needed, why not avoid the shortened bench and bring up Mather while Ankiel recovers fully on the DL? |
Jeff Gordon: Great question. I'm not a fan of keeping a guy on the bench when he isn't able to play. This team is already limited on the bench, as noted earlier. Mather's two-week turn could have sped his development and created some trade interest.
On the other hand, I'm sure La Russa is eager to stack up some at bats for Duncan to get him going. He might not be eager to put still another outfield bat into his mix. |
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Eric: Hey Gordo, love the chats.
One number: .364
This is Izturis's OBP; very Eckstein-esque.
I know this season is young, but I am very happy with Izturis's defense and commitment to Walks.
He has 16 Walks/ 111 Offical At Bats
In 2007, he had 19 Walks/ 314 Official At Bats.
FYI: Izturis career OBP is .298
I hope I am not jinxing him by bringing up these, but it should be applauded by Cardinal Nation. |
| Jeff Gordon: Great point, because Cesar had not previously embraced the OBP factor. This has been one of the better stories of the season. Competition is a good thing, it appears -- since Ryan's presence has brought the best out of Izturis. |
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tamtam1622: I was wondering if you know what ever happened to Bill Pulshipher?
I know he shows up and joins the Long Island Ducks in Central Islip, NY about every August at the end of their season...
But why did he quit baseball pretty much all together?
A few years ago when the Cardinals sent him to Memphis he did very well down there...surely the Memphis Redbirds is a better gig than the Long Island Ducks for a few weeks??
I think the Redbirds even wanted him back, he was asked that on a radio interview after their last game.
He was demoted to the AA Springfield Cardinals also at that time for a few days, but they recalled him to Memphis.
I dont' get it. Do you have any insight?
( I know, I know way more than you do probably about that...but some insight would be helpful. He was a good/decent player and a nice guy it seemed. He had a chance at a AAA career I think.) |
Jeff Gordon: Talk about old times . . . Pulsipher joined the Ducks last season when Donovan Osborne(!)developed a tired arm. He apparently came from the Mexican League to help out Long Island, again.
Guys like Bill kick around the back roads. They are good enough to keep pitching but not good enough to interest big league GMs. Sometimes, when injuries stack up, they get a chance. They want to keep going but at some point they drift off the radar screen. |
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| Kiko: Can you explain the process of signing draft picks? Its seems like the team should be working on getting them signed now instead of the days leading up to camp, why do they wait so long to get this process started? |
| Jeff Gordon: Teams would love to sign these guys early. But there a slotting process that starts at the top of the first round. In its next CBA, the NFL ought to establish rookie salary guidelines like the NBA and NHL has. This would free up more cap dollars to veteran players who have really earned it. |
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| Bobby: Hey Jeff, thanks for the chats. So what are your thoughts on Chris Perez? I thought he looked very impressive. When was the last time we saw a Cardinal pitcher throw 98? Whats the story on Motte? Also how bad is Ankiel's shoulder and when do you think we will see Mather up here? Thanks. |
Jeff Gordon: If Ankiel can't play in a few days, Mather may get his chance. But Rick is such a big part of this team that Tony can't bear to write him off for 15 days unless he has no choice.
Perez is very impressive. Scouts have loved him for a few years now. As long as he maintains some command out there, he can stick in the bigs as a late-inning guy. He has all the tools to close. Motte is another hard thrower, but he is more one-dimensional at this point. |
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Jason: Gordo-
Sorry, I'm a little late with this question. Newborn daughters have a way of doing that...
This is in regards to the umpires. Yadi got run from the game a week ago in Milwaukee for arguing balls and strikes. How does MLB go about evaluating the performance of the umpires? They do not seem to make information regarding discipline of the umpires poor performance available...
Thanks,
Jason |
| Jeff Gordon: The umpires aren't getting as much scrutiny these days. They are getting less critical supervision. And it shows. The umpiring is still better than it used to be, but we're seeing some slippage. |
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Carlos Galvan: Morning Jeff,
In taking a look at the Rams of "today" and assuming no major injuries (a big if)...I see one very large hole. From your perspective, is there anything in the works regarding Mr.Chavous? Realize the lad is a "pillar of the community", however it would seem that his skills have deteriorated dramatically.
Your thoughts |
| Jeff Gordon: For the record, Haslett disagrees. And the team hasn't taken steps to replace him. |
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Will L: Hey Gordo,
What do you think of Perez thus far?
What do you think of the future back end in the bullpen potentially being McClellen, Perez and Motte? |
| Jeff Gordon: There is a lot of potential power there. McClellan could move to the rotation, ala Wainwright, if the other prospects develop on schedule. Given the age of Izzy and Springer, Perez's arrival is timely to say the least. |
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The Sheriff: Hey Gordo,
The Post ran a story mentioning some upgrades to the Dome shortly after this past season. I was at the cave the Rams call home for their Draft Day party and saw no upgrades or signs that gave me reason to believe that the Dome would get a modest face lift for this upcoming season.
The story mentioned skylighting, new jumbotrons, and a brighter coat of paint to help brighten the cave up. Is this still supposed to happen? At the least can we get a nice new widescreen HD tv on each side of the field instead of the nightmares that currently reside in each endzone?!
Thanks for your time!
Incognito |
| Jeff Gordon: I believe the big improvements could come after next season, if all went according to plan. There should be some facelifting for this season, but not a dramatic change. |
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clarkmike25: I know this is premature but if the outfielders continue to perform like they are would it make sense for the Cards to trade either Skip or Duncan? We know they won't trade Ankiel and with Rasmus being the "future" we need to capitalize on this outfield. Especially when you add Ludwick and Mather to the mix.
I would think if we packaged Skip or Duncan with Bryan Anderson we could get a decent middle infield or pitching prospect. What do you think we could get? |
Jeff Gordon: Yes, it will make sense to trade somebody. Before Ludwick's takeoff, we all assumed a RH outfield bat could be a target. But Ludwick's hitting here and Mather's hitting at Memphis could change that.
The Cards could use an impact bat at SS or 2B, although the combo of guys is doing surprisingly well there, too. Is Ryan the 2B or the future, the SS of the future or just a utility guy? The more at bats he gets this year, the more we will know. |
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Blair: Hi Jeff,
June 1st will soon be here, but Mulder and Clement are still weeks (months?) away. I think John Mozeliak should be very thankful that Looper, Wellemeyer, Lohse, et al are doing the job. If the Cardinals were 7 games under .500, the Post Dispatch headlines would be talking about how the Cardinals medical staff is either untruthful or grossly underestimating injuries and recovery times. (Izzy's hip, Rolen's shoulder, Carpenter's shoulder, Mulder's shoulder, etc.) The Cardinals' early success is glossing over the Mulder and Clement absences.
Also, are there any trades brewing? I'm sure Reyes is available, and Duncan would be ideal as a 1B/DH in the AL. I like Duncan, but he is a defensive liability, and by this time next year he will be further down the depth chart when Rasmus (and possibly Mather) leapfrog over him. The only question I have is who will play 1st base when Pujols rests. |
Jeff Gordon: Diagnosing, fixing and rehabbing elbow and shoulder injuries is an inexact science. Mulder could pitch right now -- he just wouldn't be very good. Clement was at the same point earlier this spring.
The Cards are fortunate to have so many internal options. This was the factor I've cited while insisting this team has more staying power than many experts believed. |
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David: Hey Gordo,
I'm a St. Louis guy stuck in Nashville (possible the worst sports city in America!) but I'm going to see 3 Memphis Redbirds games this week. Other than the obvious (Rasmus), what future Cardinals should I pay close attention to? |
| Jeff Gordon: Mather, for sure. Motte, for sure. Boggs and Garcia, if they are the starting pitchers for the games you will will. Anderson behind the plate. All those guys have a shot to help the big club as earlier as this summer. |
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| wotownramsfan: jeff with the release of odell thurman, and the rams needing a linebacker, why not take a chance on this guy. i know the rams front office is trying to go with the more high character guy, but it is more important to win now then worry about the character of someone. is there anyway they could sign him and have his contract be incentive based on his play or how many games he plays? |
| Jeff Gordon: The Rams just went way out of their way to draft Eagle Scouts, so I really don't see them gambling on a suspect character. The Rams still have a few remaining player on that bubble. |
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| Pete: Can you give me the scouting breakdown of these 3 pitchers and what you think they project as in the bigs. PJ Walters, Jess Todd, Jaime Garcia, and John Jay (just to throw a position player out there). I appreciate it and keep up the good work. |
Jeff Gordon: Todd, the former Arkansas pitcher, has climbed rapidly since getting drafted in the second round last year. Scouts projected him as a reliever because he stands 5-11 and is primarily a fastball/slider pitcher. However, he has been more than fine as a minor league starter to this point. He earned a quick promotion from Palm Beach to Springfield this spring.
Garcia is the top starting pitching prospect in the organization, a lefty with nasty stuff. A tender elbow cut short his '07 season, but he has been strong in '08. He got a quick promotion from Springfield to Memphis. You could see him in St. Louis at some point this year.
Walters is a crafty sort, lacking the big arm of these other two. But he has knack for keeping guys off-balance, so you never know. Jay is another outfielder with a nice bat, although he doesn't have big power or big speed. He probably projects to be an outfielder at this level. This is a big year for his development. |
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Dmac: Hey Gordo,
Thanks for your chat, it is always informative. Now that we have a quarter of the season out of the way, based on what we have seen so far, how would you rank the teams in the NL Central to finish? |
Jeff Gordon: Pity the Brewers!
Earlier this year, I had it Cubs, Brewers, Cards, Astros, Reds and Pirates.
Now it's Cubs, Cards, Reds, Astros, Brewers and Pirates. Milwaukee's pitching is a mess, due to injuries and bullpen failure.
If Houston could get Oswalt healthy and pitching like Oswalt, the 'Stros could make a run. The Reds have the pitching to stick around. If the Cards can leverage pitching depth to upgrade their offense, they can fight for a wild-card spot. But if those pitchers don't heal, they could really slide in this division. |
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| Tackleberry: With significant amount of money coming off the books this fall (Mulder, Clement, Izzy, Encarnacion) do you see the ownership being more willing to make a move at the deadline for an impact player who might have significant time and/or money remaing on his contract? |
Jeff Gordon: Certainly. But they also don't want to make another Danny Haren deal and give up a young player, especially a pitcher, with huge upside. The better guys like Perez and McClellan, the more likely this team is to build around those guys.
And might the team gain what it needs offensively from Ankiel, Ryan, Mather, Rasmus, Anderson, et al? This team hasn't been able to build from within for some time. It has worked for Arizona and Tampa Bay, so it's something to consider here.
DeWitt is way more inclined to go that way than to spend large dollar on one player. And that's fine, as long as he locks up younger players as he has with Wainwright and Molina. |
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| Scott L: Any chance the Blues get Sundin for a two year deal to nuture Berglund and Jonas Junland. The second year of the deal would also cover the abscence of Tchuck. Great tutor for a young swede, or any other young player. |
| Jeff Gordon: Agreed, but Sundin figures to head to a Cup contender if finally gives up on Toronto. I'm not sure he would buy into a rebuilding program after going through what he did with the Leafs the last few years. |
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Teddy ballgame: Gordo,
Now that the Ram's have not selected Dorsey out of LSU or acquired a run stuffing tackle how do they plan on stopping the run better this season?
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Jeff Gordon: By having Ryan and Carriker stuff the run as they did last season. The Rams were much more stout against the run. Adeyanju could also factor into that.
Dorsey's bigger strength was ability to cause havoc with his inside rush -- although he can blow up the run as well. |
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Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff, Thank You for taking my questions.
With Oshie and Eller comming into the fold this year. What are some of the lines that we could have? Who do you see going this summer to make room for the rookies we have waiting?
Thank You for your time.
Scott |
Jeff Gordon: I'd be shocked if Eller played for the Blues this year. He still looks very much like a teenager. The scoring lines should come through some combination of McDonald and Berglund up the middle (with Oshie also getting a look at center) and Boyes, Kariya, Tkachuk, Perron, Stempniak, Backes (and possibly Oshie) on the wings. Mayers would be a solid third-line guy, opposite a scorer.
As I noted earlier, there is big potential for better production from McDonald, Kariya, Stempniak and Perron. All are capable to doing more than last year. Oshie and Berglund could also give more than the |
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Zimmy: With Oshie, Eller in the fold, other kids coming in(including the upcoming draft) how do you see Tkachuk or other FAs fitting on the team?
also what is the draft date?
Thanks Gordo! |
Jeff Gordon: Keith should have one more year in him. (Or one more year than Rucinsky had him in.) I don't see Eller or this summer's pick helping this offense right away, but I can see Berglund and Oshie helping on some level. Perron and Stempniak have 30-goal skills and McDonald and Kariya could both push a point per game in the right scenario. There is great potential for improvement without going big for a guy like Marian Hossa.
If the Blues could add another natural center for the right price, that would be great. Otherwise, the focus should be on the younger talent in hand. There is great potential there. |
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| Vito Corleone: Why is Holt so testy these days? Can Linehan get a handle on it? Also, what's your take on the izzy situation? |
Jeff Gordon: As I wrote earlier, Holt is still fighting his 3-13 hangover and his mourning of Ike's exit. The insiders I trust at Rams Park insist he'll come around and be his old self. We'll see.
As for Izzy, look for him to take one more run at closing. He was solid last year in that role and solid in April. If he can't cut it during his next attempt, then I would him to pack it in rather than finish his career in failure. |
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| Springdogg: Assuming they all make the team...whats is your G,A,PTS prediction for Oshie, Berglund, Perron and Erik Johnson. |
Jeff Gordon: Erik ought to push 50 points next year, assuming the Blues actually develop a decent power play.
Perron ought to be a 25-goal, 25-assist guy, at least. He may need a little time in Peoria, too, just so he appreciates the difference.
Something like 12 goals and 25 assists would be a first step for Berglund. I'd 15 goals and 30 assists would be fair for Oshie. Either guy could go big this year . . . or either guy could need more time. Neither really knows what it is like to play for keeps in the NHL. Long term, all these young forwards could be 60- to 80-point guys. |
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| Scott L: ANy word on Simon Hjalmarsson, I never seem to hear any mention of him as a prospect for the Blues. |
| Jeff Gordon: He had a very nice year in Sweden but he needs at least one more year there. He needs to play against men full-time before making the jump to the AHL and NHL. He and Eller work well together, so it'll be fun to see these two clicking in 2010 or 2011. |
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Kevin in California: Hi Jeff,
I see Chris Duncan being a "Dave Kingman" at best. He is a minus outfielder and, while powerful not the best of situational hitters.The guy belongs in the A.L. where I'm sure he'll prosper. Tough to trade right now but... What is your crystal ball say? |
Jeff Gordon: I like Chris's approach at the plate. He has been patient, drawing walks and working for good pitches. In that respect his is better than Kingman. This season he hasn't had Kingman power, but the potential is there.
Given the team's oversupply of outfielders, it seems inevitable he will move in a deal. As it is, Tony has a tough time finding him the ABs he needs to stay sharp. |
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| wifflegray: Chicago, Houston, Milwaukee all have pretty decent power lineups. In order to keep pace I think the Cards need to add a little more pop to the lineup. I have heard they are also looking for possible pullpen help. It would be nice to see the Cards make a trade for another bat, b/c they already have some great arms that could help that pen out. As the season continues, who are some realistic trade possibilites that could help out this lineup? |
| Jeff Gordon: If the Rangers elected to move Michael Young, that would be a nice bat to add at shortstop. |
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| Jason: Gordo.....remind me of the sequence and order of the contract offers between the Rams and Ike Bruce. Did the Rams really try to keep him? Did Ike basically split for the money? Seems like with Saunders "wide-open" offense this coming season, Ike would have flourished! |
| Jeff Gordon: The Rams decided to cut Bruce rather than keep him under the terms of his old deal. Rather than agree to a new deal for lesser money here, Bruce opted to explore free agency and sign with the Niners. I believe the $4 million he gets in the first year of the Frisco deal is better than what the Rams were willing to do here. But this was probably pride deal rather than pure money deal. Ike figured he had made enough concessions to the Rams over the years. |
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wifflegray: Do you think we will honestly ever see Izzy as the Cards closer again?
Thanks for taking my question. |
| Jeff Gordon: Yes, I expect him to take one more shot at it. I would expect the Cards to give him one more shot. After that, though, the team has too many other options to fool around with a struggling player. And Izzy would put the team first. He doesn't want the job if he can't succeed at it. |
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Dennis O.: Hi Gordo,
What are in the plans for the blues to have a solid number two backup goaltender behind Manny next year? |
| Jeff Gordon: There are many possibilities out there. A lot of veterans will be looking for gigs. Nostalgic fans are clamoring for CuJo, but does he have another year in him? |
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Steve: The cards need to develop their youth faster. The Rams need to focus on the QB and DB positions. You think I'm correct? Let me know.
-Steve |
Jeff Gordon: The Cards are graduating their players on time. Ankiel, Duncan, Schumaker, Ryan, McClellan, Perez, Parisi -- the homegrown players are piling up, for a change. This renewed commitment to player development was long overdue.
The Rams could use a better option at No. 3 quarterback. Soon, they will need to add a young guy with legit growth potential. They also need Chavous' successor and another CB, just in case. |
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| zimmy: Granted Perez was just called up( about time) but if he can handle the closer's role, what do you think we do with Izzy(with all his problems) Will the team resign him for next year? |
Jeff Gordon: Izzy earlier expressed a desire to pitch one more year, but that might not happen here unless he has an amazing second half of the season. The Cards have too many other options to invest big dollars into a aging reliever. He would have to pitch lights out to get that. DeWitt isn't sentimental.
Maybe Perez is the next guy. Maybe the next guy Franklin. The new few weeks will bring things into focus. |
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Ken Wilson: Hey Gordo,
What situation will have to be in place for young prospects like Jaime Garcia and Mitchell Boggs to get a shot with the Cards? Also, does Jason Motte need to add to his reportie to be considered big leagur ready? |
Jeff Gordon: Motte throws the ball as hard as almost anybody, but he needs more movement (or secondary pitches) to make the heat work at this level. Look at how much movement Perez has on his pitches. But the kid has the arm for the job, so that's a start.
As for Garcia or Boggs, they are basically waiting for somebody to get hurt at this point. That could be a starter or a reliever. The Cards won't deal their existing veterans until they see what becomes of Carpenter, Mulder, Clement, et al. |
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| UCityDave: Football question: Why do people insist on saying they're evaluating NFL teams' drafts when all they do is count up the number of players a team drafts who stay on that team's roster? That mixes drafting together with a lot of other issues, like how well teams manage the salary cap and whether they can convince their own free agents to stay -- neither one of which has anything directly to do with how well they choose college talent. It may seem like I'm picking a nit, but I think that this confuses people and leads them to misdirect their anger at a team's college personnel guys when their team is down, when it's the guys who are managing the roster AFTER the draft that are often more to blame. (And yes, I know sometimes they're the same guys.) |
Jeff Gordon: Great point. Pickett moved on and played well. So did Lewis. Bly left for big dollars, as did McDonald. Chillar left for more money. The Rams could still have a LOT of earlier picks had the franchise deemed the players worth they money other teams paid them. A more reasonable knock on the scouts would be their inability to draft Pro Bowl-type players.
They have put a lot of guys in the league, but not many great ones. |
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CraigMBC: Hi Jeff:
I heard Ricky Horton on yesterday's broadcast say that Yadi was not having as good a year defensively as in the past. Do you agree? Seems to me that passed balls may be up, but I think that may because of some of the cross-ups from some of our pitching staff. Other than that, he seems to be as good as ever.
Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: He also hasn't thrown as many baserunners out, owing, in part, to the failure of pitchers to hold runners. I would agree, though, that Molina is letting more balls get away from him. |
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| Ken Wilson: With Rick Ankiel hurting a little (but improving) why wouldn't the team want to give Joe Mather an audition while he's red hot? |
Jeff Gordon: I agree -- but Ankiel has been a special player this year, so La Russa can't stand the thought of sitting him out in a week when he is actually ready to play.
It would be fun to see what Mather could do here. He is proving that last year's power surge was no fluke. |
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k30: Jeff,
Is it possible that TLR could use Perez and Izzy as alternating closers? Perez already stated he learned quite a bit from Izzy in Spring Training...and it doesn't appear that Izzy can stand the strain of closing every time anymore...however, we would all like to see Izzy get his 300th save...AND...TLR and some others are leary of putting Perez in the closer role all by his lonesome...so, again...do you think it is possible (or even a good idea) that TLR could use both Perez and Izzy to close out games on alternating nights to teach one and rest the other...similar to Matheny's last year here with Yadi as he "taught him the ropes" at this level?
Thanks! |
| Jeff Gordon: Also, Perez could alternate with Franklin, as he did Sunday. Scaling back Izzy's use might be one way to salvage his season. Does fatigue really cause him to lose command. If so, then it would be better to use him three times a week successfully then four or five times with troubles. |
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| mannboba: Jeff- Will baseball ever make a decesion on the DH? It seems weird having two set of rules, depending on where you play. I the Al you will have a big bat like Big Poppy while you wont in NL. Having two setg of rules is like in the NBA having the three point shot in the west but not the east. I prefer the pitcher batting, but I rather nsee the leagues uniform. |
| Jeff Gordon: As an old American League guy (born and raised in Detroit, previous stops in KC and Baltimore) I can see the value of the DH. I appreciate the Nl strategy, but I'd almost rather see a DH than the pitcher hitting eighth. |
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| roger from lake tahoe: seems like the oakland a's have been having trouble finding a dh. and they always have a farm system full of good prospects. any chance of moving duncan to oakland? |
| Jeff Gordon: Wasn't Barton, the old Cards farmhand, supposed to be that guy? Duncan could be a great DH/1B. When healthy, he has put up nice numbers. He could also play some outfield as needed. If the Cards want to deal him for something nice, the team needs to get him ABs. But getting him ABs is tough for the same reason why he is expendable -- there are so many other guys. |
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| Pete: Do you think Blake Hawksworth is destined to be an inconsistent disappointment? Also, who do you think has the most upside: Boggs, Mortensen or Ottavino? |
Jeff Gordon: Mortensen, despite his recent hiccups, has the big upside. The Cards brass liked him this spring. Ottavino is really out of whack right now, although he also has nice upside. Boggs is polished and prepared to pitch at this level -- although some experts see him more as a Brad Thompson type than a rotation fixture.
Hawksworth is running out of time here, just as Chris Narveson ran out of time. |
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| Tackleberry: It is funny that very little changes have been made with regards to the Rams' linebackers. They have been awful tacklers recently and with the exception of the times when Haslett FINALLY moved Witherspoon to the outside, they seemed to have very little "big play" impact. Why do they seemingly hold pat on this position? |
Jeff Gordon: Haslett likes Witherspoon, a lot. Tinoisamoa has been pretty good when healthy, which, admittedly, isn't very often. The Rams believe Draft can start. And the coaches like Culberson. And the personnel guys believe a few of these rookies have a real shot.
We'll see. Bottom line: The Rams didn't want to invest cap space in what was in free agency, including their own guys, Chillar. |
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Ryan Judd: Hey Jeff,
With the season a little more than a quarter complete, what is your take on the NL Central? How many wins do you think it will take this year? I don't think the Cubs will keep their current pace with Dempster pitching out of his mind and their heavy loaded Pirate schedule where they are 8-1 and playing another 3 game series this week. Houston's pitching won't keep up either. Plus with the West struggling their is a good chance the wild card could come from the Central unless the Mets and Phillies go on a tear. Your thoughts? |
| Jeff Gordon: The NL is legit this year, owing to the upgraded Reds pitching staff, the revived Astros offense and the Cubs' explosiveness with Soriano, Lee, Ramirez, Soto and Fukudome. I see the Cubs winning the division with 90 to 95 victories, since they have starting pitching depth and in-house options to Wood at closer. (Signing Edmonds was a reach though, right?) Getting a second team into the playoffs could be tough since the Pirate and Reds won't roll over for their division foes this time around. |
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| Fyten: How well does Mather play in the outfield? Bernie, in his Extra Points, said he can play all three outfield positions. |
Jeff Gordon: On this team, with Ankiel, Schumaker and Ludwick capable of playing center field -- and Rasmus in training -- Mather's ability to play the corner infield spots (in addition to the outfield)is his real value. He is Spiezio-like that way. Mather broke in as a third baseman and played his first two minor league seasons there. He didn't start playing the outfield until his fourth year, at Peoria.
Last year he played more first base than outfielder at Springfield, then played almost exclusively in the outfield at Memphis. But he is a good athlete capable of playing almost anywhere.
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Walt: Jeff, If the Blues don't make the playoffs this year, do you think that will be it for Andy Murray? I think the club was very patient with him last year, but he doesn't seem to be much of a motivator. I think his style worked well in the beginning, but is wearing thin. What's your take?
Thanks! |
| Jeff Gordon: No question, the Blues have to take a big step this year to keep the coaching staff in place. Murray must prove he is the right guy to mold this young team. Last season's collapse raised serious questions. |
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| Brian: Is Ryan Johnson the odd man out for the Blues this off season? I would really hate to see such a hard worker go. I always thought he should have got a "C" or "A" last season. |
Jeff Gordon: Ryan is a handy guy with his speed and penalty killing skills. The influx of young talent makes it less likely the team would use him as extensively as it did last season, but he could still have a place in the mix.
But with the younger McClement also in place, what would the team be willing to invest in a No. 4-type center? |
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k30: Jeff,
With the announcement of Ramirez's contract...is it possible the Marlins would entertain a trade offer for Uggla? If so, what would it cost St. Louis in prospects? Any other thoughts on this possibility?
Thanks! |
Jeff Gordon: Ah, a blessed impact bat! Uggla is headed to arbitration this winter and the Marlins have already warned fans that no more contract extensions are forthcoming. Uggla has a three-year track record of offensive success and is quite attractive.
As always, a deal with Florida would require blue-chip prospects. If I'm the Marlins, I'm asking for guys like McClellan and Mather, if not Garcia and Rasmus. They can always ask, right? |
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Luke: Jeff,
Do you think the Rams will be interested in signing Odell Thurman? He is young, cheap and could be the starting SAM immediately.
Thanks. |
Jeff Gordon: Thurman insists the Bengals let him go in a dispute over how much time he took attending his grandmother's funeral. The Bengals noted that Thurman, who missed two years due to a league suspension, hadn't taken the "right steps" to compete for a job this year.
I'd be surprised if the Rams wanted anything to do with this much baggage.
That appears to be the last question for today. Catch you all next time! |
