mjk: Hey Jeff,
It's pretty clear the Blues will have to take a defenseman at no. 4 in the draft, since 5 of the top 6 are defenseman...By the time the Blues pick, Doughty and Bogosian should and will be gone based upon the projections...So, whose your choice at that pick? Alex Pietrangelo(two way defenseman), Luke Schenn(defensive & a leader) or Tyler Myers(Chara type)?
Thanks for your time |
| Jeff Gordon: Actually, I'm intrigued by the top international skater, Nikita Filatov. He is a high-risk, potentially hight-reward scoring winger. I'd rather see the Blues go there than a defenseman like Schenn, who won't have the skills to help their power play over the long term. |
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scott: When do you think they will sign David Backes to a long term contract? Any idea of length and type of money? Seems they should lock him up for a while..Not too many tough,hard nosed type of guys who play in front of the net..
Thanks!! |
| Jeff Gordon: Tough guy to figure on a long-term deal, since his goal scoring didn't materialize this year. If I'm Backes, I want to play another season and try to drive up my value. Tkachuk can't play forever and he's the next best power forward in the organization. Is he a 20- to 25-goal guy? I believe he could be. But right now, the Blues would only offer third-line money for multiple years. |
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nicedream: Hi Gordo,
Since we are going to have to build the Rams a new stadium anyway why don't we put it somewhere where people can spread out and breath? Honestly, who really wants to go into downtown St Louis for a football game? IMHO a new state of the art retractable dome natural grass facility in Earth City makes much more sense.
Not only is there plenty of land available, there are also major North/South and East/West interstate highways, casinos, a major concert venue, and the Rams practice facility all in the neighborhood.
Talk about a place to Party! Your thoughts? |
Jeff Gordon: It would be nice to have a tailgate lot, no? IF there is suitable land in that area, it wouldn't be the worst spot, given the westward population migration.
So much has to happen, though. Somebody has to buck up to buy the team, then buck up some more money to offset some of the stadium cost. The next Rams owner will have to put big money into the project to make it happen. That is the norm now. Taxpayers aren't going to foot the whole bill any more. |
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Jonny Faux: Hey Gordo,
Thanks for taking my question. I was wondering about the Blues newest front office employee Doug Armstong. What does this mean for Jarmo? I thought he dreamed of being a GM of an NHL franchise and after he signed a contract extension he would have a fair shot here at the job after Pleau. So I ask again, what about Jarmo? |
| Jeff Gordon: Davidson addressed this point with me on KFNS (noon to 2 p.m.). Given Larry Pleau's situation with his wife's cancer fight, J.D. wanted to add somebody with GM experience to his team. Obviously Armstrong would be a strong candidate to succeed Pleau down the road, if another opportunity doesn't pop up first. For now, the Blues want Jarmo to focus on nailing the '08 draft. What happens in two years depends on how the current arrangement works. If Armstrong does the job I expect him to, he would likely get the nod over Jarmo. |
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| Lynn: Hi, Gordo! Is there any word about how Carp, Thompson, and Izzy did in their simulated game Saturday? How will the Cardinals decide when it is time for Izzy to make his (hopefully) triumphful comeback? Do you think he has a chance to get 8 more saves as a Cardinal? |
Jeff Gordon: I expect Izzy to take one more run at the closer's role, after taking several weeks to regroup away from the team.
Carpenter (41 pitches), Thompson (30 pitches) and Izzy (42 pitches) all reported progress -- but as we've learned with Mulder, it's tough to get excited about a pitchers comeback until he shows up ready to work again in St. Louis. |
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Alan Zarek: So its pretty much an accepted conclusion that the Rams will have a new stadium..but where, exactly?
Is there a enough land to prehaps host a new venue in Collinsville or Fairview Heights? Who pays for new digs? What do you do with "Exhibit Hall Six" if the Rams leave?
Would L-A finally get it act together and perhaps get a stadium deal done? |
Jeff Gordon: LA will make a stadium happen one way or another. Maybe the NFL will build it when it becomes obvious that the league can't maximize its overall revenue potential without a team there. As for here, Illinois a stretch. I see The River as a major marketing obstacle, just as it would have been for the Cardinals.
Who will pay for it? The owner will have to put up a chunk and the public will have to pay the rest.
The Ed would last for a while a part of the convention center, although it would interesting to see how The Sports Commission kept that place busy enough to pay the electric bill. |
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Colin B: Hey Gordo,
I was just watching the game 3 of Lord Stanley's Series, and I watched a 2 on 3 break of the Penguins against Detroit. Two Redwing Defensemen were double-teaming one Penguin, while the other stood in between the two Pittsburgh players. Osgood went way out to challenge the shooter, as Manny Legace does so often as a Blue. I'm reminded that Chris Osgood, even though it probably was some lowly time in his career, was not a great goalie as a Blue. No doubt Osgood is an amazing player, it made me wonder, do teams play to their goalie's strengths? It seems to me that Detroit has trouble finding bad goalies. Is it because they, similar to the Denver Broncos and runningbacks, are able to play to the goalie's strengths and just change their defensive system per goalie? Do teams do that? Should they? Is there a Mike Shannahan of hockey? |
Jeff Gordon: Playing goal for a really good team -- with airtight team defense, a good offense, a great home-ice edge -- allows a guy to build confidence. Ozzie was a better goal in Detroit then he was in New York and St. Louis . . . and now he's better, again, in Motown. Osgood can give up an iffy goal here and there and know that it won't matter. In other situations, those bad goals causes his team to buckle.
This year Osgood got unbelievably hot and never cooled off. Good for him, because he was always a class guy here. |
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| Tackleberry: I think it is funny that the issue of the Rams leaving St. Louis somehow will come back to the fans and St. Louis residents and their tax dollars. Over the years there have been various players who have vocally questioned the commitment of this fanbase to the team, Jimmy Kennedy being one and Steven Jackson being another. In the "what-have-you-done-for-me-lately" world of sports, fans can be fickel and the Rams fans are not above that, but maybe some of these players/owners need a refreshed history lesson. This team has been in St Louis for 13 seasons, in 8 of those seasons the Rams finished .500 or worse. Now there are many fanbases that would trade their foam fingers for the 4-year run that this franchise had fromm 1999-2003. But that four-year run was bookended by 8 years of absolute futility, so pardon fans for not embracing the "golden years" every year to help them forget about a team that seems to fail to improve the same woes year-in and year-out. No doubt some owness falls on fans, but the Rams have a 33% success rate during their stay here, so that is a consideration when the team comes calling for season ticket holders money or the city's tax dollars. If this team wants a new stadium and a full stadium, maybe they should consider the product they put on the field. |
| Jeff Gordon: I'm with you. This is a good fan base. But 3-13 will scare people off, especially when it's a while since the team won a playoff game. In a bad economy, the Rams face quite a struggle getting people back in The Ed. Expect more blackouts this year - and don't blame the fans. |
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Jimbo: Hey Gordo, thanks for the discussion!
Special teams have been a disaster the last couple of years; do you see the acquisition of Brown (no offense to Wilkens) along with Jones finally giving the Rams the skills to finally take care of this area?
Also, how do you see the wide receiver position working out? Hagans had a great preseason last year and Stanley is definitely fast. With a year of NFL experience behind them (albeit, with limited playing time) do you think they could have a breakout year?
Al Saunders ... great to have him back!!!! |
Jeff Gordon: The kicking will be fine. The coverage . . . we'll see. That remains a nagging concern. Once again the Rams drafted supposedly good special teams players.
Caldwell had a good minicamp at receiver. I would put him, Avery, Burton and Stanley in the fight for WR spots. Hagans has some heavy lifting to do; he needed to show more as a return guy to secure his spot. Stanley stole his thunder there. |
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Austin Winterbauer: Jeff,
I was wondering your thoughts on Matt Holiday. I herd the Rockies are shopping him and I also herd the Cardinals were one 10 teams interested, what do you think we would have to give to get him( Duncan,Parisi or Reyes and maybe 1 or 2 more prospects????). Also do you think the Cads will go after any pitching in the next two months. There are lots of rumors that the Indians are shopping CC Sabathia and that the A's are shopping Hardna and Blanton, do you think th Cards will pursue ay of them. Thanks Gordo |
Jeff Gordon: If I'm Mozeliak, I don't make a play on a pitcher. I assume Carpenter will heal and I already have five solid starters, plus Boggs and Garcia at Memphis, McClellan could switch to the rotation in the long term, too.
Holliday is a cornerstone guy, somebody you could imagine fitting in snugly behind Albert. What about a Holliday, Ankiel and Ludwick outifeld, with Schumaker as No. 4 and Ryan leading off at 2B? Mather is part of such an equation. Is he a worthy trade chip? Could he become a low-cost impact bat, starting now?
This is a good spot the Cardinals are in. Something will have to give, beyond the obvious need to give Duncan and Reyes an opportunity to escape Memphis. |
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| donald s box: Hey jeff iv;e played this game of baseball before,and when i see some one doing something that should be crrected. I will say something to that individual to correct it. The cardinals have a hitting coarch and one of the best hitters in the game, and ankiel keep trying to pull every pitch he see. Do hitting coarches get involved, or do they wait for the player to come to them. |
Jeff Gordon: McRae wants his guys to use all the fields. This point was made to Rasmus, apparently to his discomfort. Ankiel is still a bit raw, but he has so much in his power stroke. Pitchers keep working him carefully, which will force him to adapt or lose some playing time. He could also help himself by being a bit more selective and aware of what pitchers are doing to him.
This is all part of the cat and mouse game for young hitters. I assume he will see the value of driving the ball to all fields. |
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| Tim: whats the word on Pete Kozma? how is he doing wherever he is? What is the earliest he could be in a Cards uniform? |
| Jeff Gordon: He really hit the skids in May hitting in Quad Cities, so that is a setback. He was fabulous in April. He is three or four years away, at least. Remember how long it took Duncan and Mather to get themselves ready to hit at this level. |
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| Tim: Are the Blues going to sign Bishop and Bergland and try to get them a shot on the roster next season? |
| Jeff Gordon: Both are signed and both will be in camp. Bishop figures to play in Peoria next season to adjust to pro hockey. Berglund could spend some time in the AHL, too, as he adapts to North American play. But he should help the Blues on some level next season. |
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| Tim: What other prospects might the Blues try to get on the roster next season? |
| Jeff Gordon: Oshie, obviously. Polak and Wagner should have bigger roles this year on defense after getting a look last season. |
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| Tim: Just out of curiosity who is the fastest guy in the enitre cardinal system? |
| Jeff Gordon: Can't say, but OF Daryl Jones has good wheels. He is just staring to pull his game together, so we won't know if he has big league potential for another year or two. |
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| Tim: What are the Cards plans for Mather down the road? Future starter? Trade bait? What do you think? |
Jeff Gordon: If the Cards make a play on a big-time RH-hitting OF, then he could move in that package. If he hits really well during this trial, though, the Cards may opt to use their trade resources to do something else. Mather has one big year at Springfield and part of a big year at Memphis on his track record. It's too early to lock him into LF or RF for the long haul.
Maybe he becomes a utility guy, capable of playing several spots defensively. |
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| Tim: When could we possibly see Boggs and Garcia in Cardinal uniforms having great seasons? |
| Jeff Gordon: They could be here this year. Garcia has a better chance to become great, but that could take a year or two. |
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| Tim: Do you think Duncan could get traded anythime now? |
| Jeff Gordon: Mozeliak won't rush into anything, but obviously he has to address his surplus at some point. If he can help his team's playoff quest this summer, why not make the move? |
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| Tim: Who is the most aggressive between Setterstrom and Romberg? |
| Jeff Gordon: Setterstrom is a powerful run blocker at guard, but it remains to be seen how that would translate at center. He is the more physical of the two players, but center is a more cerebral position. |
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| Tim: What do you think the Cards will do with Bryan Anderson? |
| Jeff Gordon: If his defense improves, he could reach the bigs as a catcher. He has a nice bat. If other teams project him as an everyday catcher, that creates still another trade option. |
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| Chris: I have mixed feelings about the Blues' Armstrong hire. He is a quality front-office guy, but is this going to ultimately cost the organization the services of MacInnis or Jarmo? Where do they have to go now? |
| Jeff Gordon: If Al wanted the full-time, 24/7 hockey job, he could have grabbed it. As for Jarmo, GM jobs are hard to come by. Do other teams see him as somebody capable of running the whole hockey operation. And, frankly, he has yet to deliver huge draft results here. He is still building his resume. |
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Doug From Florida: Gordo,
Please keep everyone regularly up to date with how Chris Duncan is progressing in refinding his stroke at Memphis. His power is critical to our success this year in St. Louis. |
Jeff Gordon: The old Chris Duncan could help this team. And the recent Chris Duncan wasn't bad, at least when he was starting in LF. He just couldn't hit off the bench for whatever reason and he certainly can't hit lefties.
As for his future, we'll see. Beyond the looming DH games later this month in AL cities, where will he get consistent at bats here? |
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| Tim: What ever happned to Pujols's cousin that we drafted? |
| Jeff Gordon: Released, ended up in legal trouble. |
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| Tim: Who in the Cardinals system is the most likley to get traded and what can we get? |
| Jeff Gordon: Beyond Duncan, Thompson and Reyes, you have Anderson and Hoffpauir playing behind Molina and Ryan (a possible trade chip himself, in the right scenario). Mather could go, in an established RH outfielder came in return. Teams will target Perez and McClellan in big deals, but I don't see that happening. |
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| Kevin Weber: Is Jarrett Hoffpauir related to Micah Hoffpauir who got called up for the Cubs? |
| Jeff Gordon: I saw no indication of that from their minor league profiles. |
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| Kevin Weber: I understand that Mather has hit a lot of HR's recently which was what got his name into the discussion. But Nick Stavinoha is hitting over .350 and has power as well, how come we haven't heard his name talked about? |
| Jeff Gordon: He has a little power, but nothing like Mather's power. He could be a solid No. 4 or No. 5 outfielder, though. He enhances the Cards' trade position. |
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Ray: Hi Gordo:
The Cards have a lot of money coming off the books after this season - by my count around $33m. [$5-6 m. from Edmonds, $6 m. from Encarnacion, $8 m. from Izzy (who I can't see the Cards re-signing), $5.5 m. from Looper (who I also can't see being re-signed), $1.5 m. from Clement, and $6.5 m. (?) from Mulder]. Though the Cards have options on the last two, both look doubtful (to be kind) at the moment. I know some of the money will go to Wainwright and Molina, and some to built-in raises, but what do you see the Cards doing with the rest of it (looks like $20-25 m.), especially if neither Clement or Mulder pan out? Doesn't look like there will many quality middle-infield free agents this year. And, we have a number of good young pitchers coming along, both in the rotation and the bullpen. So, where will it go - Ludwick, Ankiel, lower ticket prices ??? |
| Jeff Gordon: There could be real opportunities to address the middle infield, as you say. The outfield is covered. So is the bullpen. The rotation ought to be strong with Carpenter in the mix. Lohse will command big money on a long-term deal and it might be worth it, especially if Looper does leave. Ankiel will need a big deal, too, that buys into his free agency. Ludwick will get a big jump. But, yes, there will be an opportunity to take on at least one big salary for a cornerstone player. |
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Little Ed: Greetings Gordo
Crhis simms is wanting out of Tampa and we need a 3rd qb, maybe the team can play lets make a deal. Plus Rosevelt Colvin is on the market a good vet Lineman could be a hepling hand to the team, You Think. |
| Jeff Gordon: Tampa Bay had six QBs at one point -- and any of the extra ones would be an upgrade over Berlin. Does Simms still have future? The medical team and the coaching would have to take a long look at that. |
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Dave Cobler: Hey Gordo;
My comment is;
I was watching the Cards and Pirates on the FSN (PIRATES network)on Sunday. After the game Bob Walk (through an interesting illustrated demonstration) broke down the location of pitches by the Pirate pitchers to Ludwick and Mather. To make a long story short he made some interesting points about pitching them inside by locating the ball within an area of 8 inchs over the inner part of the plate. In doing this he "showed" they can't hit the ball hard there because thier swing is only effective for balls over the middle to the outside half of the plate.
On another note according to Bob Walk and other Pirate broadcasters they believe the Cardinal bullpen to be weak and the key to win games against the Cards is to get the Cardinal Starters out of the game. Is this the perception that is going around the league? I think the Cardinal bullpen is a strength. If our starters get through 5 or 6 innings, the bullpen usually holds it together.
Thank you for taking the time here again Jeff. I always look forward to your chats! |
Jeff Gordon: If pitches can hit the spot Walk is talking about, they can get a lot of hitters out. Had Walk been able to hit that spot, he would have enjoyed a more productive career himself.
I'd say McClellan and Perez have shored up the bullpen, but when Jimenez gets hammered in a fill-in role, it does raise a flag. Let's see if Worrell provides one more closer-caliber guy to use in short relief. |
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Brad: Gordo,
What is the status of Chris Long's contract negotiations with the Rams? With Jake Long and Matt Ryan both signed, what are we waiting for? The two sides should know what the value is of Chris's contract. |
| Jeff Gordon: Long's deal is all about structure. The value has already been set by Jake Long. If he doesn't sign well before camp, I'd be shocked. |
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| Tackleberry: Why Parisi, why now, and will he really be given another start? Last time I checked the Cubs aren't losing, so tinkering with a AAA player as a starter seems futile. Why not try Reyes again, at least you know what you will be getting? |
| Jeff Gordon: If Reyes comes up, he has to stay. It's hard to imagine that happening. If the Cards need another starter for Pineirp's next turn, I'd take a look at Boggs instead. |
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Michael Kent: Jeff ...
Let's see, the Cards pitchers who are on the DL are Jason Isringhausen, Joel Pineiro, Brad Thompson, Matt Clement, Mark Mulder, and Chris Carpenter. At the moment, the "official" 30-day clock is scheduled to start running on only Clement ... but does that necessarily mean he'll be the first one to make it back to the active roster?
What's your best guess on the order of return for these rehabbing pitchers? My guess would be Pineiro, Thompson, Izzy, Clement, Mulder, and Carpenter. The first three would seem more certain simply because they've been the ones most recently on the active roster while the last three are considerably less certain because it's been quite some time since they've been on the active roster.
Thanks. |
Jeff Gordon: I agree with your order, except for Mulder. I'd surprised if he ever pitched here again. He will hit another roadblock, and another and another.
I would expect Pineiro to miss no more than one more start, if that. Clement will need his full 30 days to prove he replicate his old form. Izzy will need at least that long. Carpenter could help in August, I suppose. And remember that Thompson got sent down to Memphis when he got hurt. His return will depend on how the staff is doing. He is just a depth guy at this point. |
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G Money: Blues draft question. Take most talented player available or draft for need at the Center/Wing position? What backup goalies may be available to the Blues this off season?
Nice to see Worrell up for a look. Glad Parasi may get one more start. Worrell is a different look to the other power arms out in the pen |
Jeff Gordon: I'd like to see the Blues take a forward, unless their scouts believe there is just too much risk.
The potential free-agent list of goalies includes Johan Hedberg, Alex Auld, Jocelyn Thibault, CuJo, John Grahame, Patrick Lalime, John Holmqvist, Dan Ellis, David Aebischer, Ty Conklin, Brian Boucher, Curtis Sanford and Olaf Kolzig. Some of those guys will re-sign with their teams and some are unlikely candidates here. But the Blues will have choices in free agency and the trade route. |
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Baltimore Brian: Gordo-
Isaac Bruce is one of the best WRs to ever play the game. He is currently 2nd in career receiving yards, 6th in career receptions and tied for 13th in career TD receptions, although others are gaining on him quickly. I was sad that the Rams let him go. But his stats have been down over the past 2 out of 3 years, and the Rams decided he wasn’t in their future plans (at least not for the money he wanted). Do you think Bruce will have a good year in SF where he is back with Crazy Mike? Or will his numbers be more like they were in 2005 or 2007? |
| Jeff Gordon: Great questions. He will report in the best shape possible. His motivation level will be high. Martz will make a feature receiver. But then what? Will he hold up? |
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Kenny H.: Gordo,
How do you view the Rams' WR corps this season? Aren't the Rams once tweak of Holt's knee from being in a real pickle? For all the talk about slowing down, I would have felt better with Bruce sliding into the No. 1 spot than I do about Bennett. Especially if these two rookies can't adapt quickly, a loss of Holt could saddle the passing offense, no?
Here's hoping that the guy with no playbook in college can learn his new one, and bring something to the table. Somehow I can't see starting WRs of Bennett and Caldwell striking fear in the rest of the NFC West! |
| Jeff Gordon: Caldwell has a nice minicamp, so he has hope. Bennett can't possibly be as bad as he was last season, but both Avery and Burton could be impact players. In fact, they better be impact players. |
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ueaces: Gordo,
Love your work both with the Post and on the air. Will you be doing any live remotes anytime soon?
One of the chief reasons I belive the Cardinals will remain in contention is the defense. That has been a constant for this year's edition of baseball in St. Louis, and I don't see that as changing. That, coupled with a pitching staff that seems to buy into Dunc'e philosphy, equals a team that is difficult to beat. |
| Jeff Gordon: We will start doing Tuesdays at the Sports Cafe in Bridgeton and Fridays at Fandango's in Valley Park (Daugherty Ferry and Big Bend.) |
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BP: Gordo-
I have to say that I was doubtful that Jimmy Baseball would stick with the Small Bears long enough to make a July appearance at Busch Stadium given his sad "Willie Mays with the Mets" impersonation, but I see that he went nuts against the Rockies over the weekend in Chicago. Could he be rounding into form to haunt the Cardinals all summer or is this a blip on the radar? If you were a betting man, will we see him stride to the plate when the Cubs come to town in July? |
| Jeff Gordon: It looks like he will, indeed, still be with the club. He was pretty close to exhausting Lou Piniella's patience. |
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lynyrd: Jeff, As always thanks for taking the time to have these chats it's much appreciated.
Call me crazy but I think IF, and I realize this is a big if, the O-line can stay reasonably healthy we are going to have a very good (if not dominant) offensive line.
I think that when it's all said and done Setterstrom will be the starter at center. He's a powerful run blocker and combined with fellow mauler Cogs and Jacob Bell I really believe we can wear down defenses with a steady dose of SJ. By the 4th qt. the last thing a defender will want to see is a 235 lb. beast like that coming at him with a full head of steam.
What a lot of people forget is how well the O-line jelled the last 5-6 games in 2006 and I really like the chances of that scenario happening again IF they can stay healthy. What's your opinion Jeff?
Also, is there any news on getting SJ signed to a long term deal? I think it'd be foolish to not get a deal done and then be forced to slap the franchise tag on him. Your thoughts?
Thanks Jeff! |
| Jeff Gordon: I see Jackson getting his deal. That has been the recent Rams M.O., which is why they don't spend big in free agency. They keep their guys. The o-line could be a strength IF it stays reasonably healthy and IF Barron finally plays like a first-round pick. |
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| Robert: What's your prediction on Chris Long's contract? Will it be higher than Jake Long's but lower than Matt Ryan's? Or higher than Matt Ryan's? Or lower than Jake Long's? Or will the differences be in the total value, number of years, and guaranteed money, so you can't really compare apples to apples with the No.1 & 3? |
| Jeff Gordon: It should be lower than both players. The No. 1 pick sets the bar, although a quarterback chosen near the top of the draft has more value than a lineman -- and commands a higher salary, accordingly. I can't imagine Chris' contract deviating much from Jake's deal. |
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bfulton: Any update on Pace and Little injury recovery? I understand they were held out of minicamp. Was that because they physically couldn't go or because the team just didn't want to risk injury on practice the players didn't need. If the former, when are they expected to be ready?
Thanks for doing these chats and keeping us in the loop. |
| Jeff Gordon: Both players are fine. O.P. was a bit more limited, but there is no reason to expect them to be limited in any way in camp. Given their age, Linehan was going to take it easy on them anyway, in mini-camp, OTAs and training camp. All the injured guys are on or ahead of schedule. |
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| Robert: Does Torry Holt have a problem with Donnie Avery, and did Donnie do something already to irk Torry? |
| Jeff Gordon: I think Torry just played the veteran role, reminding the No. 2 pick that he will have to earn his spot in the rotation. By all accounts, Avery is a good kid, a hard worker and a smart player. But he is a bit raw, coming out of the spread offense. |
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Todd Fechtman: GORDO,
I can only watch women's tennis when American's are involved because of all the screaming and grunting, how do women learn to scream so loud when hitting a ball?
Back in the day you could get into a Cardinals game after a certain inning without paying for a ticket. This would bring kids into the ballpark who could not afford a ticket and also for the kids who just loved the game.
Can you still do that? |
| Jeff Gordon: You can catch the very tail end of the game when the stadium workers open the floodgates to facilitate the exodus. As for the tennis grunt, that crept into the game many years ago. Players must find some mental edge with it. Are tennis coaches teaching it? If so, they should stop. |
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Vince B.: Gordo,
What do you know about Shane Robinson down in AA Springfield? He looks like another Skip Schumaker with the ability to steal 30-40 bases a year. He was also the NCAA Player of the Year in 2005 at FSU. Do you think he could be the Cards 5th OF in 2010? Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: The kid is making a move, adding to the silly depth at the OF position. I don't know about that stolen base total, but the Cards WILL have to create some room for him to move up on the depth chart. Last check the kid was hitting .384. Wow. |
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Kara Bennett: Jeff,
Looks like the Cardinal’s much anticipated mid-season surplus of starting pitching is going the way of cheap summer gas. Can we still expect an upgrade in our starting pitching when Carpenter’s comes off the DL, or should we expect Carpenter to struggle the way Mulder and Clement have? What are the chances of making the playoffs with Lohse, Looper and Pineiro shouldering the three fifths of the starting pitcher load? |
Jeff Gordon: What can Carpenter do? Good question. Earlier posters suggested he finish the year in relief to build up his arm. It's been done before, but Chris has a leadership position on this staff. I think La Russa will want him in the rotation. If Clement can hit 90 miles per hour again, I'd like to see him get a look, perhaps in middle relief at first.
As for pitching depth, now it may come from younger pitchers pushing the ladder. |
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r. m. coleman: Your column today mentions Todd at Springfield but what about Fernando Salas?
Salas' stats are outstanding: 53 Ks v. 8 BBs & 17 hits in 31.1 innings with a 1.72 ERA, 2 wins and six saves. What is your assessment of his chances for the majors? |
| Jeff Gordon: Salas is a fascinating case. He is a bit of a mystery man, coming out of a Mexican high school, but is making a great impression. More reason for optimism. |
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Chris: Hey Gordo,
Thanks as usual for answering our questions.
2 questions:
Any inside info (or insight) on who the Rams might be considering for 3rd String QB competition for Berlin?
Do you think Klopfenstein will step up this year - especially now that they have Becht to help out blocking - or will Becht's dual abilities to block and catch send Klop to the bench (or packing) |
| Jeff Gordon: The heat will be on Joe, for sure. Becht changes the position. The kid is a nice target, but he has to block this year to stick. Let's see if he took that evaluation to heart. As for the third QB, I would imagine that is wide open. There are a lot of guys out there. It seems like they ought to bring somebody legit in, given the surplus of QBs on the market. |
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Blues Fan: Gordo,
Thanks for taking my questions. Some may require longer answers, but since I'm not sure that a lot of people will be writing in about the Blues in June, I thought I would give it a chance...please feel free to disregard any or all if you get swamped.
1) Any thoughts on bringing back Shanny? I am sure there is a lot to be said about him and Keith being too similar, but Shanny's wrister from the circle seems to be missing on the power play, and frankly he's more of a winner than KT.
2) With the hopeful infusion of young talent, how do you see the lines shaping up next year?
3) Any players around the league that you see available in a trade that you would like the Blues to at least inquire about? Obviously Ottawa is going to have to mix some things up after again failing in the playoffs. There seem to be some good players available and it looks like the Blues now have some pieces to play with....
4) Any thoughts on the upcoming draft?
On an aside, my family has had season tickets since the Blues moved to STL. I love going to games. One thing I cannot understand though is the new Nachos policy. The old barn use to have the best Nachos in the business, big thing of 2 day old chips, piping hot old el paso poured on top from the big can and then some jalapenos thrown on top. Now, the chips come in a bag and the cheese comes in a plastic cup that is either melted or cold. You know people. For the love of everything that is holy, can you please change this.
Thanks Gordo! |
Jeff Gordon: Nachos cheese in a dipping tub -- I agree with out. I like 'em smothered and covered, like at Busch.
I don't see the Blues adding Shanny while Tkachuk is still here. And I don't see Shanny going to a rebuilding team.
It's way too early on lines. Will Stempniak bounce back? What will Backes becomoe? Is Oshie the Next Roenick? What can Berglund do as a rookie import? Is Perron ready for regular top two line work? Are McDonald and Kariya ready to regain their point-per-game form?
Many questions for sure. To me, Perron and Stempniak have the best chance to upgrade the offense. Both have 25- to 35-goal skill that could be realized this season. |
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| Tim: What players would you most compare Oshie and Eller to? |
Jeff Gordon: The Oshie/Roenick comparison might be a stretch, although the kid does like to finish his checks. There is some real life to his game. Let's see how that translates.
Can't speak to Eller, since he is so young. He got hurt last summer. But he is a potential No. 2 center, arriving in a couple of years. |
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| Tim: Rasmus lokks like hes starting to pick it up. What is he doing now that he wasnt doing and when do you possibly see him getting called up? |
| Jeff Gordon: Right now, he should aim for September -- unless hit kills the ball all this month and the Cards make a big July deal. The kid just needed to regroup after getting disappointed by his failure to stick out of spring training. I can't believe he went into the funk just because the Cards coaches suggested he use all the fields. A dead pull hitter at the age of 21 will get carved up by big league pitchers. |
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| bagninja: Are the Rams in the market for any possible trades ? I.e. like a Jason Taylor trade? |
| Jeff Gordon: To be the No. 3 defensive end? Not likely. And Taylor wants to play one year for a contender. The Rams don't qualify. |
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| Jimmy M bridgeton: Hey Gordo! Please handicap for me the odds of the others beside Albert who can make the all star game this year. thank you. |
| Jeff Gordon: I don't see any other all-stars, despite the team's success. If Wainwright rolls through June, then maybe. Ludwick is a long shot. He lacks name value and there are many OFs hitting well. |
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| James: Hey Gordo, You help mondays so much! Can you please tell me your thoughts on the trade situations right now in the Cardinals organization. Are they shopping anyone i.e. Reyes, Duncan, Anderson etc. Who do you see switching uniforms this summer? if anyone. |
| Jeff Gordon: All those guys are possible, along with Thompson and even Mather if a RH power outfielder came back. There is a big surplus of pitching (despite the injuries) and outfielders. |
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| Anthony Reyes in Memphis: Gordo. Why doesnt anyone beleive in me anymore? |
| Jeff Gordon: Dude, a lot of teams need pitching. They will have scouts at your game. Hang in there! |
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Tim: If you could pick what would your offensive line look like next year?
Heres mine
Pace- durable, expierienced, hard worker
Bell- aggressive, lot of upside, physical
Setterstom- Big, young, agressive
Incognito- flat out headcase
Grecco- Strong, physical
I think Barron has been givin to many chances and needs to be a backup |
Jeff Gordon: If Barron hits the bench, that will be a heck of a story. The Rams will concede defeat. This is why they changed line coaches -- to take a fresh look at him.
Don't count out Romberg. He is a natural center who has played well when healthy. |
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| Jimmy M bridgeton: Is Anthony Reyes just not as good as thought, or is it a case of being in Duncan's doghouse? |
| Jeff Gordon: Many teams need pitching. The Cards can't bury him. If another team likes him, here's there for a trade. |
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| Chris: How does Looper have 7 wins with a 5+ ERA? Can Wellmeyer and the cubs keep it up? Most importantly, Can JD find a taker for Jay McKee? THANKS!! |
Jeff Gordon: McKee's contract is still an issue. Dealing him will be tough.
Looper gets the team deep into games, one way or another. Wellemeyer can keep it up, with his skills. |
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| Tim: Will the Cards show any interest in Brian Roberts? |
| Jeff Gordon: Interesting guy, natural leadoff hitter . . . but Ryan is starting to intrigue me more and more. Do the Rams save the money for a shortstop? |
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| Ryan: Is eveyone else dreading watching the Wings hoist the Stanley Cup over their collective heads as much as I am? |
| Jeff Gordon: Well, Chris Osgood and Dallas Drake feel good about it . . . |
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PolderBear: Hey Gordo,
Last week I submitted an email spelling out, in apparently too much detail, why I don't think the Rams are going to move in 2014/15, even if they don't get a new stadium deal. Primarily, I don't think the NFL is going to allow a lot of teams to move around (and where would they all go anyway?), and if some of the half-dozen teams with more current stadium issues (Jax, SD, NO, etc) are going to move, those moves would take place before the Rams stadium issue can legitimately become a "real" issue.
If an impasse occurs -- say, no stadium deal and the new owners don't like the idea of regular, significant enhancements, for example -- what, really, are they going to do about it? If LA gets the Chargers, for example, and maybe one other team moves (e.g. to Toronto or San Antonio), there's no other real options. This is the NFL; not the NBA.
Can you indulge me and play this out a bit? What to you think? Am I missing something here (aside from possible ego-induced owner stupidity)?
Thanks a lot,
PB |
Jeff Gordon: Good point about the other stadium issues in other markets. Not everybody can move. Not many new markets will offer the sorts of deals St Louis and Baltimore got.
The NFL can't control team movement. Competing cities will control that. Maybe, just maybe, city leaders have collectively regained their sanity. |
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| HEG: Gordo do you think the Mizzou football team will end up in the manner that the baseball team ended; maybe over-rated? |
Jeff Gordon: I don't know if Mizzou baseball was overrated. The bracket format leading to the CWS creates a lot of havoc. The Tigers had a nice run.
As for Mizzou football, the lack of a playoff bracket ought to allow them to reach a BCS bowl based on reputation, preseason ranking, ease of non-conference schedule (other than Illinois) and the chance to do well in conference.
The Tigers ought to cash in their rep, for a change. |
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| Aron: How does Mr. Irrelevant look so far? According to the website he is slated as a strong side LB, any chance he could compete for the position with Draft and Culberson? |
| Jeff Gordon: He is in the mix, for sure. Lots of competition there. Could come down to special teams. Training camp will be wide open for LBs. |
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| Matt: With Mulder unlikely to regain his arm position in his delivery, why is there no discussion of changing his delivery to sidearm? This change would make him one expensive left handed specialist, but at least he can contribute some before parting ways. |
| Jeff Gordon: He does NOT like pitching unless his mechanics are just so. Do NOT look for him to adjust to stay in the game. That's not going to happen. |
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leo quijano: Gordo,
Thanks for taking questions today. This time of year there always seems to be a groundswell of optimism among fans and certain of us hearken back to '99 and think that lightning could strike twice in the same place. I remember how even the PD polls still predicted Ram losses well into the sixth week of that season and it seems most people have a similar attitude this year.
My question is, what similarities do you see here? I'm hoping you have some tidbits from practices about things that indicate a similar direction. I understand that reporters are supposed to be objective but I'm asking for you to give an unabashed "bright side" take that we won't hold against you if another injury plagued season occurs.
leo from Springfield, MO |
| Jeff Gordon: Tough comparison. The '99 team had a really easy schedule and cutting-edge coaching. This team faces a rough schedule, to say the least. For this team, 9-7 would be great. |
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D-Mac: Hey Gordo,
Thanks as always for your chat time. One question, now that Jimmy Baseball is all smiley and happy in Chicago, will he start serving Old Style beer and shriveled up hot dogs at his restaurant downtown St.Louis?
And who is going to go there now anyway??? |
| Jeff Gordon: 15 is a very nice place, but too trendy to me. Old Style is more my speed. |
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Warren Arnold: Hi Gordo,
Do you see a fundamental change in the baseball business beginning? By that I mean, will GM's be more likely to lock up young talent rather than risk signing a veteran to long term contracts and potentially have wasted money the last couple of years of the deal? Or is this just a calm time before the teams go crazy for proven commodities again(and usually overpay)? |
Jeff Gordon: All those 40-something former all-stars out of work -- that may be a trend. There is no need to extend so many careers with good talent coming up. But as more teams have money through revenue sharing, that will create big free agent spending. It just will.
Except in Florida. The Marlins threw money at Ramirez, but that may be it. |
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Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff, I just wanted to know your thoughts on the Blues adding Amerstrong to the mix. It seams like a move in the right dirrection. After what happen at the end of last season. The Blues need to keep improving if they want to keep the fans interested in the team.
Also, with the draft on 20th. Do you see the Blues moving any bodies for some more draft picks? Is this years draft deep in talent? Is it worth it this year?
What are your thoughts on Dan Hinote, D.J. King, Cam Janssen and Jamal Mayers. Do you really need 4 tough guys? I think we should keep Mayers and Janssen. They seem to have the most zip. Once again, Thank You for your time.
Scott |
Jeff Gordon: Hinote became an extra guy when Cam arrived. Cam will be the hit guy. Mayers will play a regular shift, of course, and King is more of a pure fighter.
The Blues pick fourth, then back-to-back high in the second round. That should allow them to add three blue chippers. I don't know that they need to add more picks.
As for Armstrong, I admire his work in Dallas. He will really help here, with Larry tending to family matters and J.D. working the business side. |
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| steve: It seems to me that the only way the rams will stay in stl is if the new owners are from st. louis or affiliated. who can you think of that would have the kind of money needed to purchase the rams, say next year (besides kroenke). thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: If A-B is sold, perhaps Busch IV would be looking to buy something. Otherwise, where is the money? The old money guys are going by the wayside. Not that we're becoming the Next Wichita, but . . . |
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Rambunctious: Hi Jeff! Do you see a significant change in O-line assignments with the fresh blend of Steve Loney and Al Saunders? Also, who do you see emerging as our starting center?
Was that sand pit thing that Romberg suggested ever implemented. I think it involved guys pulling a sled through sand, with one of the benefits being the strengthening of one's ankles. If it has been implemented, I would imagine that Romberg may lose some locker room popularity ... Thanks !! |
| Jeff Gordon: Yeah, that sounds like torture. But Romberg has made himself a solid NFL center. He could keep his gig and relegate Setterstrom to a back-up C/G role, to protect the group. Otherwise, I still see Richie at RG and Barron at RT, with Bell at LG and O.P. in his spot. |
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Jason: Jeff-
2 topics...
1) What are the chance that Mr. Reyes ever starts another game for the Cardinalss? It seems telling that he seems to be missing about discussions re: pitching depth.
2) Obviously, the Cards and Astros are surprises in the NL this year. And Milwaukee is worse than thought. What are you other top positive and negative surprises about the NL this year?
Thanks,
Jason |
| Jeff Gordon: Never rule out a Reyes return, because multiple injuries could strike. But he is more likely a trade chip. As for the NL, the Dodgers can't be happy with Andruw Jones and the injuries to Schmidt and Nomar. Luckily, the kids are coming through for them. The Padres are a bummer, too. And the Mets' start was rough -- is Delgado still alive? |
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Aron: Gordo,
I just graduated from Drake University where Loney was the head coach last year, and we were only 6-6. Is he really an upgrade or was he simply the best available coach? |
| Jeff Gordon: Loney is considered an "up" guy, a change that can only help Barron. He creates a more dynamic atmosphere. Or will it really help? Barron is SO important to this group. He is the indicator of which way the group will go. |
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Kyle: Hey Gordo,
Thanks again for taking my question...
I surely don't want to jinx the upcoming Blues season by any means but do you feel Murray's job is on in a bit of 'probation status' given last season's midway meltdown and ultimately poor finish? I say this because several teams have recently decided to part ways with their coaches (who many have quality resumes) and perhaps the front office sees someone there who arguably can do a better job with the team and may want to grab them before the season progresses too far along before making a change. I see a decision of this magnitude happening by the 30-game mark, do you agree? Generally speaking what do you see the course of action being for management in regards to the coaching issue moving through the 2008-09 season-especially if Murray can't motive the club's precious prospects to perform so the team can be successful? |
| Jeff Gordon: Is Andy the right guy to guide a young team? So many kids are coming in. Last year ended so badly. Will those bad trends resurface? Murray would have to have a short leash after that fiasco. Has the atmosphere soured. |
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| donsods: Now that we have some mini-camp/OTAs under our belt, how is the Rams WR situation shaping up? Is Wroten still walking the walk? |
| Jeff Gordon: So far so good for Wroten, but it's early.He was good at this point last year, too. Both rookie WRs and Caldwell have looked good this offseason. Thos are the guys to watch heading into camp. |
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CraigMBC: Hi Jeff:
What's the word on Duncan? Does everyone expect that he will find his stroke and it's just a matter of getting enough ABs? Or is there more to it? |
Jeff Gordon: I'd like to see him come back in time for the DH games at AL cities, just to see if sustained play at this level would help. Perhaps then his value would grow as the July trade mart opens up.
His start at Memphis, though, wasn't great.
That appears to be it for today -- have a good week! Talk to you next Monday. |
