Jonny Faux: Hey Gordo,

I personally was very happy with the Blues draft overall. There were some popular and unpopular picks according to some fans on the STL Boards but I have a lot of trust in Jarmo and his ability to draft. So onto my question, seeing this new influx of talent there were rumors everywhere about a possible "big splash" the Blues might make. Have you heard anything about any possible deals that were in the works? I pray to God we make a move for Jason Spezza, as you put it first line centers are hard to come by. Thanks for the time.

Jeff Gordon: Spezza's name comes up because he has a huge contract and talent-laden teams like Ottawa struggle to stay under the cap and/or under budget. He would be exactly what this team needs to build around. Could Berglund be that type of player? Oshie? We'll see, but we know what Spezza can do.

Right now the Blues do have to stay within a budget. Their time to make a play could come later, after Tkachuk and McKee move along. In the meantime, they need to get more from Kariya and McDonald, two guys with the wheels and skill to give more than we saw last season.

roger from lake tahoe: i am amazed that the cards without pujols can take it to the red sox like this. even larue is hitting! my question: if mulder can't find success as a starter, would he be considered as a lefty specialist or long man? i know the mindset and warmup are very different but do you think he could make the adjustment? thanks gordo

Jeff Gordon: Never say never, since other hurlers have found relief work better for their repaired shoulders. And the Cards could use another bullpen lefty. But that would a massive adjustment by Mulder.

Dave Cobler: Hey Gordo;
As much as I'd love to see Pujols back in the 3 hole and playing first base, I am concerned about reports that he may be back much earlier than was originally projected with the calf injury.
Do you think he is pushing the tough grit he has in his mental makeup to get back on the ball diamond before he really should?

Thank you Jeff!

Jeff Gordon: That is always a danger with Albert. As we saw with this injury, there is risk for aggravation. Pujols hurt it, then hurt is worse. The team must really be careful, since Pujols will always say he is good to go.

Chris G: Jeff -

Thanks for considering my question(s). I wanted to know if the Blues had mentioned specifically if their intention was to have Alex Pietrangelo play in the NHL, AHL, or return him to Juniors next year? Has anyone said yet if any of the newly drafted players are expected to at least challenge for a roster spot either in St. Louis or Peoria? I also know Phil McRae said he considered himself to be returning to juniors, but what do the powers that be in the Blues organization think? Finally, has there been any word on any possible UFA / RFA players who the Blues might be targeting as being a good value in their expected salary slots? Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: McRae needs to go back, since he has a LONG way to go. The Blues need to keep him at a level where his offense can develop. Alex will bid for a job in training camp, but scouts believe he was just scratching the surface of his potential last season. The Blues have a pretty good returning group, especially with Polak and Wagner needing to play. So why not let him dominate junior hockey for another year, then jump up to play with the men?

With the addition of Mason, the team doesn't have a big hole. I don't see a big move in free agency, since Boyes, Tkachuk, Kariya, McDonald, Stempniak, Backes, Perron, McClement, Hinote, King and Janssen return and both Oshie and Berglund are expected to compete for jobs somewhere in the top three lines.

On D, Johsnon, Brewer, Jackman, McKee are back with Woywitka, Wagner and Polak next in line. Perhaps another veteran is needed there, just in case.

Jonny Faux: Hey Gordo,

I was just wondering why Joe Mather was sent down and we has not been recalled yet?

Jeff Gordon: Mather was sent down to add another pitcher. Then he hurt his back, so the hot-hitting Stavinoha got the call-up when Izturis went down. This give the Cards another chance to check out (and showcase)still another outfield prospect.