Join columnist Jeff Gordon for a live chat from 1-2 p.m. Monday about the Cards, Rams, Blues, Mizzou or whatever sport or team is on your mind.
Monday, June 16, 2008 01:00 PM CDT
Tim: Do you think the Cards plan to use Boggs as a future starter or set up man?
Jeff Gordon: Flip a coin. The Cards are grooming him to start, but his relief experience could allow him to move into that role and stick in the big leagues sooner. Not everybody is suited to move.
cardsfan9: Jeff, with the Cards seeming like they will be in contention for either the Central or the Wild Card, what moves would you like to see them make? What players intrigue you that might be available via trade to fill the holes? One player I'm particularly interested in is Dan Uggla from the Marlins. He is definitely an impact bat and plays a position that we could use an upgrade at. Thanks for your insight and knowledge of Cardinal baseball throughout the year.
Jeff Gordon: Yes, that is an impact bat. And, no, the Marlins don't seem prepared to lock in any other players after bucking up for Ramirez. Many GMs will focus on Florida as a result. If the Marlins fade, nobody would be shocked to see another sell-off.
dschertzer: Do you think the Rams should offer a Molina a contract to play the O-line this season? That block at home plate in yesterday's game just showss me how tough this guy really is and how much heart he has playing the game.
That being said, have you heard anything about how he's doing? If Yadi is put on the DL, do you see them bringing up Anderson for a go?
Jeff Gordon: When I talked to Memphis manager Chris Maloney last week, he said Anderson is progressing defensively . . . but wasn't quite ready to the big leagues as a defender. Down the road, Anderson would be the fill-in if Yadier missed significant time. He can hit right now, though.
Bryan S.: Do you think the Blues will go for best available or for a forward or goalie for their two second round picks. I believe they can get some steals for some first round talent that just barely slipped past the round. Also, any ideas of who they could target?
Jeff Gordon: The Blues believe those two early second-round picks offer great value. They have to get impact prospects there. And, yes, players at every position will slip. Assuming the team goes with a "D" pick at No. 4, then the Blues would certainly look longer at forwards in the second round.
FWild: Jeff
On the current roster I can only see Pujols and LaRussa as going to the Hall of Fame and then onto the left field wall. Which of these three former Cardinals do you think has the best chance of joining them. Scott Rolen, Jim Edmonds or Ted Simmons? With all the talk recently after Mike Piaza's retirement that he is first ballot hall of famer why does Simmons not get a hint of respect from the veterans committee? If Piaza's defense isn't going to be held against him why should Simmons?
Jeff Gordon: It's a great question. Simmons gets a rap for not defending well and for moving away from the position later in his career. But his offense as a catcher ranks up with the all-time greats. Unfortunately, the veterans committee isn't very charitable these days, under the current framework.