Ray: Hey Gordo:

During the recent spate of lefties the Cards faced, Glaus batted cleanup. When we traded for him, it seems that I recall reading that he has a history of hitting worse in the 4 spot than elsewhere. That seems to have continued this year. He did little in the cleanup position last week, while he has been a decent hitter when batting fifth or sixth. For the year, what is Glaus batting in the fourth spot vs. in other spots? And, if I'm correct, why doesn't TLR recognize this fact, and bat Ludwick or Ankiel at cleanup (even if they are struggling). It seems the offense was better earlier in the year when this was being done.

Jeff Gordon: You are right about Glaus. He is a natural No. 5 or No. 5 6 hitter. But Ludwick fell into a rut when Albert was gone, so La Russa wanted to get him going by putting him higher in the batting order for some games.

Glaus is batting .235 in 81 at bats as a No. 4 hitter this season and .287 in 247 at bats as a No. 5 hitter.

All this explains why Cards fans still want to see the team add another impact bat, despite the weekend's barrage in Pittsburgh.

Tackleberry: The bullpen is looking UGLY (except Springer)! How did the collective unit come unglued so fast?

Can the topic of Izzy getting 300 saves in a Cardinal uniform please be shelved? The Cards need wins, period. If, by chance, Izzy stops blowing up long enough to be put in a save situation than so be it. But the notion that Tony should make Izzy's milestone a consideration as a game winds down is ridiculous!

I've never missed Tyler Johnson and Josh Kinney as much as I do right now.

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, Johnson and Kinney were studs in '06 as the Cards made their world championship runs. Yes, they are missed now. The bullpen has worn out. Not only did Izzy, Flores and Villone fall apart, but the kids have taken more hits as the summer progressed. Chris Perez's ERA has steadily climbed since his May debut. McClellan's trends are similar.

Only Springer has remained steady. Hence the need for this team to add some help before the waivers-free trade deadline.

M. Skaistis: What game previous game to the June 13 20-2 loss to Philadelphia was the Cardinals worst loss?

Jeff Gordon: Last year the Cards lost 18-1 to the Astros at home, on Sept. 20. Aaron Miles had a tougher time in that game, allowing two runs on three hits while working the ninth. Other Cards relievers in that game: Andy Cavazos, Brian Falkenborg and Kelvin Jimenez.

SteveW: Hi Jeff.

I hate that the all-star game counts. What if you are, for example, a Yankee, and you are in the all-star game. What is your incentive to win a game so the Red Sox can get home field? Or Albert Puhjols' incentive to get the cubs home field?
Why not rather let the world series winner decide where the all-star game will be played the following year or year after that? Makes more sense to me.

If Rasmus is the untouchable of the cards minor leagues, then where is he? I know he's hurt now, but why isn't he on the big club with all these other guys coming up?

Why is it so hard to throw the last 3 innings of the game? The cards starters go out there almost every night and throw 6 or 7 innings, giving up 2 to 4 runs. The releivers come in and can't go an inning without 2 or 3 runs. Are all our releivers just that bad? And don't tell me they are tired. How many innings do they throw compared to the starters?

thanks for your time.

Jeff Gordon: The frequency of use -- both warming up and in the games -- is what wears out relievers. La Russa tends to use a lot of relievers even in good times, so his bullpen really gets taxed in more difficult times.

As noted earlier, even the rookie relievers have shown signs of wear and tear this summer.

As for Rasmus, had he not suffered that groin injury, he would have been ready for recall after the All-Star break. But the Cards won't bring him up and give him a Mather-like role. He is 21, Mather is 25. Colby still needs at bats. That will be the case when he heals, unless one of the top four Cards outfielders gets hurt or gets traded.

You're right about the All-Star Game. The current set-up is ridiculous.

Dave Cobler: Hey Gordo;
TLR has expressed he needs an IMPACT BAT to hit behind Pujols. The presence that Barry Bonds brings to a lineup is the ingredient that I think gets Pujols better at bats. It will spread the rest of the lineup whereby the guys will be better fitted. One might ask, well, what do you do with the outfield mix that we currently have. My answer; Start clearing the roster for Rasmus arrival NOW...we need pitching help. We've got guys on the 25 man roster that could be traded who would get us some good pitching. CARP and WAINO should provide help soon and that will have a domino effect on the pitching staff...and is Mulder done OR NOT???
Personally, I think Ludwick would be the best trade chip RIGHT NOW. But, I think TLR would rather have Ludwick over Schumaker because of LUDS power. But I like Schu's game. I do not know what to think of DUNC other than continue to platoon him or trade him. Rasmus could platoon with BONDS for the rest of the year. Bonds might even be a GOOD TUTER. But I say give Bonds a chance. He is the best PRESENCE out there to get for 2 months to help in a pennant race as he has seen it all. He would come cheap and if the move proves to be not a fit the Cards could always say good-bye to him. But I beleive in TLR's strong leadership and with Pujols as well, I just think Bonds will conform to this team. Bottom line; THE CARDINAL OWNERSHIP TRIED TO BEAT CHICAGO and that is ALL Cardinal Nation can ask for!
What do you think Gordo?

Thanks Jeff!

Jeff Gordon: Bonds would be a fascinating addition in every regard. His addition would make sense IF he really is in playing shape -- 30 pounds lighter than the last time we saw him -- and he can really play the OF without hurting himself and the team. Also, he would have to come with zero-tolerance guidelines concerning his behavior. If he caused any clubhouse trouble at all, he would have to depart immediately.

This guy caused massive disruptions in Pittsburgh and San Francisco. La Russa can handle a guy like this and Albert would love to have him, but what about everybody else?

Although the Cards outfielders have put up impressive overall offensive numbers at the break, it is instructive to see that Albert has been walked intentionally 22 times and the next Card has three- Chris Duncan, the player who would have to depart to make room for Bonds.

Does Ludwick have trade value after two really good half-seasons? Probably not. The Cards ought to keep him and sign him to a two- or three-year contract for a LOT less money than Jason Bay will command in free agency. Aren't they the same guy? Bay's numbers haven't been as good as Ludwick's numbers the last two years and Ryan is a better outfielder.

Brett: Gordo, what do you think the Cardinals will pursue in the offseason? Middle infield? Power bat? We may need to look elsewhere to find a closer, might we pursue a stopper to give Perez more seasoning?

Jeff Gordon: The bullpen will need a lot of work. Can Johnson and Kinney return? Maybe, but the Cards can't count on that. McClellan will likely move to the rotation. It's hard to imagine Izzy returning, but he still has time to earn another year in some role (for less money, though.) Perez will have a role, of course, but he is trending the wrong way now. Motte could have a role if he keeps developing, but not as a closer. Flores and Villone are trending the wrong way, obviously. Springer has a lot of mileage in the shoulder. So it's easy to see a major overhaul there.

A better-hitting shortstop would be the other priority. Kennedy and Miles are fine at 2B, but Ryan hasn't made his case for the starting SS job in '09. Maybe that will come, maybe not. But this could be a decent year for free-agent shortstops.

Michael Kent: Jeff ...

Now that the Cards have made it to the All Star break in a much, much better position than most would have expected, there's a lot to look forward to the second half IF a few things happen. Other than getting starting pitchers healthy, what do you believe MUST happen in the second half for the Cards to stay in the hunt all the way to the end of September?

To me, there must be significantly better bullpen consistency - and I'm not talking about the often-discussed lefty situation. This became crystal clear Saturday night when the Cards blew a huge lead to the Pirates, thanks to 8 earned runs given up by four RIGHT-HANDED relievers. Bullpen inconsistency has been an Achilles heel all season, would you agree?

And while many of us in Redbird cyberspace have talked about the problems with the left-handed relief help, I think the right-handed relief help (save Russ Springer) is a bigger issue. I'm not necessarily suggesting that the Cards trade for help; rather, what would you think of DD and TLR doing a major shakeup in what they already have? Like, how about rotating McClellan and Springer as the closer, and divvy up the sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-inning duties among Perez, Franklin, and Izzy?

Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: I addressed this topic in a column elsewhere on this site. In short, the offense needs to produce more runs with more consistency -- and the pieces are in place to do that, with Duncan hitting again, Ryan out of his slump, Pujols and Molina healthy again and both Ankiel and Glaus hitting for more power.

Internal rotation help is on the way, with young pitchers and injured pitchers positioned to step in on the fly. But the bullpen clearly needs help, for the reasons you outlined.

Matt: Gordo,

Looking at the standings, it appears as though the Cleveland Indians will be in sell mode this July.

When I look at the Cardinals team, three areas for improvement are lefty relief, starting pitching, and middle infield.

Do you think there is any way the Cardinals could trade for one or more of the following Indians players (maybe a package deal)?

-Rafael Perez, RP
-Cliff Lee, SP
-Jhonny Peralta, SS

Cliff Lee would be really nice to get, but I think we'd have to trade Rasmus. Would Jhonny Peralta be a more reasonable trade target? I've also heard mentions of Cristian Guzman of the Washington Nationals.

Thanks.

-Matt-
25, St. Louis

Jeff Gordon: Guzman was horrible in 2005, but has otherwise better a pretty good offensive player. I liked him more early in his Twins days, when he ran more. He would be an upgrade at the plate. As for the Tribe, they will sell for sure. Lee would cost too much, especially with the Cards developing such long-term rotation depth. Peralta has great power at shortstop and he is really trending well this season. He would really change this lineup. Perez would really help the bullpen with his power arm, but I can't imagine Cleveland trading him without getting power arms in return.

But you certainly have ID'd the types of player this team needs right now.

Bobby: Hey thanks always for the chat. I truly appreciate your insight. So quick question about the cards, actually two parts. One what will it cost in terms of $ and prospects to aquire Fuentes? Or is there someone else out there for a lesser price?

And two, and this is the more important question that im looking for insight on..... what are your thoughts on the Cards talking with Barry Bonds? I know I know, maybe not the best idea but it gives Larussa his impact bat and protection behind Albert AND Mozeliak does not give up anything in terms of the farm system. If the Cards were willing to gamble on Clement, why not Bonds? I mean he will come in to a clubhouse where leaders are in place, with a highly touted coaching staff, and a chance to win. And if he starts to act up, cut him loose. Im thinking though he realizes that his opportunities are thin and if he came back and was given another chance to clear some of his issues? This impact bat along with Carp and Wainwright around the corner, would definitely give the Cards their needed push.

Thanks always

Jeff Gordon: The bidding on Fuentes will be really high, so I don't know if the Cards could get that deal done while keeping Rasmus, McClellan, Perez and Garcia out of it. Money is not an issue. I don't know if the Cards have enough assets outside of those four to get something done.

As for Bonds, there wouldn't be much gamble. He would have to get in shape to play the outfield here. And he would have to behave to stay on the team. Anything less than his absolute best behavior wouldn't be good enough -- because no GM wants to tough him now. If he thinks he is blackballed now, what would happen if he came here and caused problems?

roger from lake tahoe: gordo, i wish the cards would have traded for sabathia, not for his pitching but for that big bat to hit behind pujols. what would you think of the cards acquiring bill hall to play ss? i know he's unhappy but i know too that trading within the division almost never happens. thanks for your answer.

Jeff Gordon: I like Hall's offensive potential, but not at shortstop. And like you say, the Brewers are in no mood to help the Cards -- even if it means moving an unhappy player for the good of the group.

roger from lake tahoe: up until may all talk was of colby rasmus. when would he arrive, would he be up before the break? now, he almost never hits the p.d. and if so, it's that infamous line of his being untouchable. is there some cooling of colby fever? if so, did it have to do with his relatives on the web? what's your take?

Jeff Gordon: Rasmus suffered a groin muscle injury that has sidelined him for a couple of weeks. This came after he really hit the ball well in June, thus turning the corner at the Class AAA level.

roger from lake tahoe: it seems duncan is heating up a little. will this end the trade talk?

Jeff Gordon: He is still the odd man out, since Ludwick/Rasmus/Ankiel looks like the '09 outfield, batting some major trade for a left fielder.

Dave S.: Jeff - What is the word on how the front office, (MO, the owners) is thinking at the break? Stand pat, just a reliever, a starter, a bat, maybe all three. Appreciate your input.

Dave

Jeff Gordon: The Cards won't stand pat. Mozeliak will make a move or two to shore up the bullpen, at least. He has more to deal now that more players (hello, Chris Duncan and Adam Kennedy) are hitting at this level and almost all of the top prospects are on track in the minor leagues.

vianden: TV announcers around the league continually mention that Glaus is better off on the natural grass at Busch than he was Toronto's artificial turf; does the Toronto field not have an infield cutaway -- that would make the dirt area of the Toronto and St. Louis infields [where Glaus would almost always be playing defense or on the bases] pretty much the same?

Jeff Gordon: Charging the ball or chasing foul balls on an artificial surface is more taxing, but, yes, there difference in the playing surfaces seems to get overblown by analysts.

Scott L: Just a few opinions
Perez - not much movement on that fastball
Ryan - overexposed at the plate
Kennedy - should get more time
Izturis - should be fined for every fly ball, or push-ups maybe
Molina - All star snub, GG snub, no respect
Duncan - recovering, glad we haven't traded him
Miles - unbelievable
Al & Dan - mindless banter rules

Jeff Gordon: The first two points ARE a concern. Perez's numbers have steadily regressed this season and Ryan missed his chance to make a mark when Izturis was down. I was more excited about both players back in May. What will do they din August?

Scott S.: Jeff, What would it take - off the major/minor league roster - for the Cards to get Michael Young (SS) from the Rangers? Would a package of Reyes, C. Duncan and Bryan Anderson get it done? Another couple Oh-fers and we can rename the "Mendoza Line" the "Izturis Line."

Jeff Gordon: Young has quite a contract, with lots of money and some no-trade protections. IF Texas wanted to move him and use the money elsewhere and IF Young wanted to come here, that would be one of the few trades where moving Rasmus in a package a couple of high-end pitching prospects would make sense. The Cards can afford one more big-ticket player, especially to a fill a position generating little offense.

B-Ball Fan: I want to appluad the Cardinals for finishing All Star break 10 games over .500. I will admit I did not expect much from this year's team, but am excited seeing all the young players come on board. My question is who do the Cardinals think of the 11 first time ML players that have came up so far, truly are ML talent and have a chance to stick ? I liked Boggs other than his 1 bad start and was surprised he was sent back down.

Jeff Gordon: Of the first-timers, Washington was just an emergency fill-in. He is not a prospect. The other 10 are, in this order:

1-McClellan
2-Perez
3-Garcia
4-Mather
5-Boggs
6-Barton
7-Parisi
8-Stavinoha
9-Worrell

Adam: Are the cardinals really interested in Burnett?

Jeff Gordon: The Cards liked him before, when he was a free agent. But he has an opt-out in his contract, which makes it had to judge his trade value. Will the Jays get less in a deal because Burnett can walk out of his deal -- of will they get more, since his new team may not have to take on remaining salary?

He could be a star here pitching for Duncan, so I would endorse dealing for him IF he agreed not to exercise his opt out. Trading assets for a rental pitcher makes no sense for this team. (In that scenario, though, the Cards would suddenly have less interesting in offering Lohse huge money before the season ends.)

Eric: Hey Gordo, love the chats.
I know what I am about to say is off limits to every football broadcaster, but here it goes:
Brett Favre is an ego-maniac. There I said it.
Sure, he has done a lot for the Packers, but Packers management has done a lot for him too. Money, never benching him. I know it's hard to imagine a corn-fed, Mississippi boy being so self-absorbed, but he is.

AND, I think Favre was (is) a great Quarterback. But unlike Brady and Manning, Favre makes some really really really poor choices. He has single-handedly won AND lost a lot of games. Unfortunately a lot of these mistakes are masked by announcers saying things like, "that interception just shows you Favre is doing everything he can to help his team win."

Unfortunately, Favre doesn't think about the team as much as you'd like to think.

Now I must go into hiding since the statements I made above are surely going incriminate me. The NFL-FBI will be knocking on my door soon.

Thanks Gordo! :)

Jeff Gordon: You hear that argument against Favre a lot. But he IS a playmaker and he DID revive that proud franchise. Favre's strong suit isn't managing a game, but you really have to have a great overall team -- as the Giants did at the end of last year -- to win it all with a quarterback just managing the game.

The Packers better be really, really sure that Rodgers is a future star. If Favre goes somewhere else and excels, can you imagine the outcry in Green Bay?

curran.m: Hi Jeff

I am confused about the Cardinals (LaRussa) stated need for protection behind Pujols. First, wasn't Glaus supposed to be the guy? Look what happens when he gets hot (this past weekend vs Pirates). Then there's Ludwick and Ankiel with 20 or more HR each and a bunch of RBIs. Maybe they haven't always hit in the clutch but comeon how many other teams have this many guys doing this well. Also, we're 2nd in BA to the Cubs and didn't break the bank to get there. No, no, no, for my money they need better relief pitching which had it been better in the first half we would be leading the Cubs by several games - 1st in blown saves says it all. So what gives?

Jeff Gordon: I agree that the bullpen is priority No. 1. But as I noted elsewhere, the other hitters, despite their overall numbers, don't have the same sort of presence Albert has. That is why he has 22 intentional walks and the next highest Card (Duncan!) has three. So I see TLR's point. The Cards have to protect Albert by committee so he can catch up to the team RBI leaders.

Austin Winterbauer: Hey Gordo,
there are rumors that the Cardinals have been scouting the Nationals most likely at pitchers Tim Redding and Odalis Perez. Do you think we will dip that low to find a pitcher this deadline or do you think we could make a deal the could really help us compete with the Cubs and Brewers, maybe bring in Burnett, Halladay(Toronto) or Fuentes.

Jeff Gordon: They are more likely to get stopgap starting help and solid relief help than one of the major throwers. Again, this team's starting pitchers is coming together nicely for the long haul -- even with Mulder crapping out and Clement struggling to regain his velocity in Memphis. Now is not the time to get caught up with what Milwaukee and Chicago are doing.

tryan1tr: I look at the Rams uniforms and I miss the days of the blue and yellow they wore in their super bowl victory. It seems like the change to their current uniform was done for the sake of change. Any take on how the fans feel about the new uniforms compared with the old?

Jeff Gordon: There was some negative reaction at first, because the team won with the old colors. Now fans are accustomed to the new look, which IS more modern. But, again, true glory came while the team had the traditional look.

donald s box: Hey Jeff, the cardinals keep talking about needing a little more pop in the line up. I have a susuggestion why not play craig or freez at short stop. Their not going to play third we have to many players in that position already.

Jeff Gordon: Freese could be the next third baseman, but shortstop is a reach. Craig has played there, but, again, his range isn't big league. Why not give Miles more time there until this situation can be addressed?

thomas48: What do you think of the chances of signing Kyle Lohse to a contract? Are the Cards making any movement toward doing so?

Jeff Gordon: Mozeliak is being coy, because he doesn't want this to be a distraction. Lohse is clearly interested in staying, though, and the Cards have the money to invest in more veteran pitcher -- especially since Mulder, Izzy and Looper could all leave the books after this season. The longer this goes on, the more Lohse will test free agency.

Ryan: I asked JR about this last week, Gordo, and I'd just like to get your opinion, as well. I see the central division finishing like this:

1) Detroit
2) Chicago
3) Columbus
4) Nashville
5) St. Louis

Am I being too hard on the Blues? I really don't see how we're going to compete with the other teams this year. Oshie and Berglund will be good...eventually. But, it is a mistake to assume that they will both come in their rookie seasons and make a huge impact. Mason is a solid goalie, but he's not the kind of goalie that is going to steal us wins. So, Gordo, do the Blues finish in the cellar again, or am I being too rough on them too soon?

Jeff Gordon: Interesting question. Detroit is monstrous with Hossa. Watching the Blackhawks and Blue Jackets progress will be fun. Nashville is still solid, as long as Ellis is really legit in goal and Radulov takes a big step this year.

The Blues could be as good as No. 2 IF Stempniak relocates his scoring touch, Legace's knee holds up, Kariya and McDonald play to their point-per-game capability and Murray finds the right person to man the power-play point opposite Erik Johnson. The list of Blues capable of playing better is long -- starting with Brewer and extending to Jackman, McClement and even Backes, who can score more.

A lot has to happen. But this management team made big bets on players who underperformed last season. That is the biggest thing to watch, rather than how much rookies like Oshie, Berglund and possibly Pietrangelo could help. If the veterans don't step up, the addition of good young talent won't help much.

Mark - Chicago: I, like most cards fans, have a deep concern for our bullpen right now. I live in Chicago and was in a Wrigleyville bar on Saturday night (I was the only Cards fan there, believe it or not). I watched as the bullpen collapsed yet again in front of a tin of Cubs fans. The Cubs fans were going nuts and I was at my table beside myself. That being said, what are we planning on doing, if anything, to solidify the bullpen? The name Brian Fuentes as come up quite a bit it seems. Is there anything to that? Is Chris Perez the closer of the future? I know it's early in his career, but he seems to be prone to giving up the long ball. Thanks Gordo.

Jeff Gordon: Perez is learning some tough levels at this level, as Marmol is learning in Chicago. But both should be fine closers some day. Trouble is, this team doesn't have Kerry Wood closing games. If the Cards could get Fuentes -- which won't be easy, with almost every contender bidding on him -- that would go a long way toward solving the problem. It seems more likely the team will make less impressive upgrades, but we'll see.

Dustin Shapiro: Which outfielder do you see the Cardinal's using as a trade piece?

To me, each one has their strengths and weaknesses, but for some reason I can't stop thinking that Skip could be a piece of a trade....

Jeff Gordon: Skip is an obvious choice, since Rasmus figures to bat lead-off someday. Colby has more speed and the ability to (hopefully) hit lefties a bit better. Duncan is an obvious choice, too, given his defensive limitations and abuse he takes from fans. It's easy to predict a Ludwick/Rasmus/Ankiel outfield next year, with a right-handed power bat (Mather) mixing in. Then again, if another team really likes Mather, he could go in the right deal since it's tough to project a starting job for him here any time soon.

Mark - Chicago: Colby Rasmus seems to be a lock as the center fielder for the future. Each time I read about him, it seems that the writer talks about his unlimited potential. However, I also read quite frequently that is in the middle of a slump or is not producing up to expectations. With Ankiel in Center field right now, we have a tremendous outfielder with a well above-average arm and good range. He also has a lot of thunder in the bat. Are the plans to move him to right or left justified in your opinion, given his proven defense? Or, should they look at Rasmus as a corner outfielder that should get a chance, but not necessarily be the core outfield player that Ankiel as proven to be?

Jeff Gordon: Colby is better defensively, overall, in center field. If Rick continues to improve his angles to the ball, then he would have a case. But why not move Ankiel to right field and let him use that arm to take bases away from the other team?

Ruben: Thanks for taking my question. With training camp a little over a week away, do you think all draft picks will be signed before the first practice? Do you think the Rams will add one more veteran, who could compete for a starting role or significant playing time at safety, LB or OL?

Jeff Gordon: Veteran help could arrive at any point, from before camp to during the camp right into the season -- as we saw last year. A lot can still happen elsewhere in the league, but the coaches are pretty happy with the current depth chart. As for the picks, I can't understand the hold up with Long. The parameters are set, so make deal already!

cardfan89447: Gordo,
The loss the other night was the first time I was truly embarrased by our shortcomings. Although I realize that Izzy was not the sole reason we gave up that win, I do think that the question of using him as a closer has been answered. I think it is time that we move on and prepare Perez to take that spot. Franklin has done well, but I think he is more comfortable in the set up spot. I just can't buy the rookie issue with Perez anymore, especially since we have very good history of using rookies in these roles. I think we need to also address the LH reliever issue and get our bullpen back to muster. It feels like all of our bullpen issues started with Izzy falling apart, and the confusion of reliever roles after that. I am not saying we have a shot at going all the way (may be thinking it), but we will not be a 60 something game winner either. This year the central is the most exciting division race and I would rather be in it than watching from the cheap seats.

Jeff Gordon: The team adapted to Izzy's failure pretty well, but Franklin is merely OK as a closer, the lefthanded relievers are less than OK and both Perez and McClellan have seen their ERAs rise as other teams get a better look at them. This group needs help.

Tackleberry: At what point does Izturis' meager bat outweigh any defensive upside he brings to the line-up? Seeing him in the line-up as much as we do is getting frustrating.

If the playoffs started tomorrow, who's your closer? Does a true closer maybe become a "need" as the deadline approaches?

Jeff Gordon: Franklin would be the guy, if the playoffs started today. This team can't add a true closer, unless you wanted to put Fuentes back in that role. And getting him would be tough.

As for Cesar, he is looking more and more like a defensive replacement. How can TLR keep much better bats on the bench if Izturis reverts to his early-season form?

Steve: Gordo,

Good afternooon. If the Cardinals were in a position to get Matt Holiday from the Rockies, why wouldn't they part with Rasmus? I understand that Rasmus is PROBABLY going to be a good outfielder. With Holiday, you KNOW he's a good outfielder. Would it take too many other players and too much money? What's the holdup? Also, I'm a diehard Packer fan, should Favre be released or should they let him take his rightful position as the quarterback of the Green Bay Packers?...I think he's earned...thanks

Jeff Gordon: I agree with you on Favre. As for Holliday, this is a very expensive player. He will outproduce Rasmus for the next five years, but he would also cost you $80 million more. That is money that could be spent on a good-hitting shortstop, a power-hitting second baseman, another veteran starting pitcher (Lohse?) and/or relief pitching.

Dustin from Lexington, KY: We all know how Bernie feels about Barry Bonds and the lack of interent in signing him from Cardinals management. What are your thoughts on the situation? He would obviously provide a bat behind Pujols and with the depth in the OF the Cards could certainly sub him out for defense later in the game if need be. How do you feel his attitude would affect the clubhouse?

Jeff Gordon: If he came in under a zero tolerance policy -- any trouble at all and you're gone -- then he could help the offense. Also, he would have to be at least 30 pounds lighter than he was last season to play the outfield.

Dan M.: Hey Gordo,

There has been talk about the Cardinals not being able to make deals because they over-value their prospects. Do you know which players considered to be overvalued? I know Rasmus is Nationally ranked as a top 10 position player prospect, but are they expecting too much in return from guys like Bryan Anderson, Clayton Mortenson, Jess Todd, etc.?

Jeff Gordon: I don't know that they overvalue guys. They just don't want to move many prospects because this organization is just getting back to where it needs to be. Keith Law believes only Rasmus and Garcia should be untouchable. I'd put Perez and McClellan in that mix, too, because they are already here, and maybe Mortensen and Todd, since they are fast-tracking.

That leaves Boggs, Mather, Anderson, Reyes, Ryan, Hoffpauir, Stavinoha, Ottavino -- even the last two No. 1 picks, Kozma (light-hitting shortstop) and Wallace (natural first baseman) as trade chips. Not to mention either Duncan on this team. There is still plenty to move -- and people MUST, since there isn't room for everybody.

springfieldUSA: Hey Gordo, first time poster here. So Pujols is hitting .350, which is incredible...but his power numbers aren't as impressive (partly due to a stint on the dl). I've heard people say that he looks smaller this year than in years past. With the second half of the season ahead, do you thing he'll be able to carry this team with bat? Will he get 3O hr, 100 rbi, 100, r?
I'll hang up and let you answer:) Thanks Gordo!

Jeff Gordon: He isn't seeing a lot of strikes. And he isn't getting a lot to hit in RBI situations. I'd say he isn't as sharp overall, though, when there are runners on base in tight games.

As for his size, he is still a big guy. The injury set him back, as did the unwillingness of teams to pitch to him.

tlwilborn: Greetings from the National Capitol/Capital:

Sorry, the bank issue is big today. Speaking of which, do you think it's time the Cardinals invest some of that cash they're saving on outfielders on a quality 2nd baseman. I'm thinking Dan Uggla of Florida or Orlando Hudson, who's a free agent this year. I love Ryan, Kennedy and Miles, but Ryan's future is at shortstop, and Kennedy and Miles are good replacements, but Uggla and Hudson are the real deal.

Also, can you see any circumstances in which the Cardinals would deal Ankiel, Schumaker or Ludwick?

Thanks for taking the questions, and keeping me straight on possible Cardinals thinking. Love your answers.

Best,
TLW

Jeff Gordon: Uggla's power is intriguing and the Marlins have decided not to lock him in, ala Ramirez. For the same reason, a rental like Durham would help add power at a position where the Cards have little.

But I'd rather see the investment go to shortstop, which could be a good free-agent position with Furcal and Cabrera coming due.

Trade Ankiel? Not likely, given the still untapped potential. The other two could go in a heartbeat, for the right deal. The Cards can't keep all of them.

Chris: Hey Gordo,

The most glaring need for these Redbirds has got to in the bullpen. Due to the inability of the current starting staff to go deep into games, the pen is over-worked. Do you see any help on the way in the form of a trade? I think Mo could get a reliable arm for the pen without giving up a top prospect and he should do it right now.

Also, a healthy Wainright and Carpenter could solve this problem because the CAN pitch into the 7th and 8th. What are the odds they both come back this year, and when do you see it happening?

Jeff Gordon: Wainwright and Carpenter will come back. Will they pitch deep into games? Adam yes, Chris maybe . . . and not at first. So the bullpen does need help ASAP.

Dan M.: Jeff, is there a possibility of Carpenter becoming the closer when he returns? They will probably be looking to limit his innings anyway, and there is no way he would be intimidated by closing. That would put things back to normal with Izzy/McLellan as your 6th inning guy, Springer in the 7th and Franklin in the 8th. A rotation anchored by Lohse and Wainwright should be able to hold its own without Carp.

Jeff Gordon: It's a thought, but the team will get relief help before Chris returns. So if the team still needs a closer by that point, that will be unfortunate. Right now the rotation really needs help, given the deterioration of Wellemeyer and Joel's struggles.

Lindy Apon: Well, am I about to be disappionted again regarding the Cardinals making an "impact" mid-season trade? Things seem to be pretty quiet once again... How do you handicap the odds of the Cardinals making a trade that clearly helps them now?

Jeff Gordon: "Help" trades will happen, I think. But the Cards won't remake their roster with huge, blockbuster deals. Too many young players are on the right track.

Ryan Judd: Hey Gordo,
I wanted to get your thoughts on the second half of the season. I am afraid that all these blown games will be our downfall. Even if our bullpen was average in the blown save category at 12 along with the rest of the NL, we would have the best record in the game. Hard to believe based on what we thought going into the season. I think the Cardinals will be outbid as usual for any real help in the bullpen or at the plate and will have to settle for leftovers again. Who do you think would help us the most? Also, I get not trading the farm for immediate help, but do you think the Cardinals overvalue their own farm system? Thanks

Jeff Gordon: I don't know if the Cards overvalue individuals, but the front office is determined to keep their numbers up in the minors. The franchise is spending millions on front-end players in Latin America for the same reason. The commitment to restock is strong. That said, the team will definitely deal some prospects for immediate help.

Will the Cards have enough to get a Brian Fuentes? Don't know about that.

zimmy: Gordo you are the man! Always enjoy your insights into sports.
seems the Bernier deal was just payback for Backes, however he seems to be a good player. So hypothetically if you could make a trade straight up between the 2 which yould you take?

Jeff Gordon: I'd take Backes. Love his hitting, love his hands.

kmcarnie24: How many games is Izzy responsible for losing this year? Is he through?

Jeff Gordon: Izzy has been a culprit in at least a half-dozen losses, but he's had a lot of help. Perez, Franklin, McClellan, the lefties -- everybody but Springer has struggled, especially as the season unfolded.

Is Izzy done? As a closer, maybe. He's had some nice middle-relief efforts since coming back.

Kannon Sanders: Recently during a softball I was playing in there was a rule that I have never heard of. I looked it up in the rules online and sure enough its there. I then checked to see if its in the baseball rulebook. Rule 7.04(c), "if a fielder, after having made a legal catch, should fall into a stand or amoung spectators or into the dugout or any other out-of-play area while in possession of the ball after making a legal catch, or fall while in the dugout after making a legal catch, the ball is dead and each runner shall advance one base, without liability to be put out, from his last legally touched base at the time the fielder fell into, or in, such out-of-play area." I found this on the MLB website, but I have never seen this rule actually inforced. I have seen many diving catches into the foul grounds and the player jumps up quickly so the player does not advance. Does the rule still stand today?

Jeff Gordon: Good question. I can't remember being enforced, but with less than two out, tagging up and advancing would be pretty easy with the fielder out of play. Obviously the player would have to come back into play to make the throw.

Pat: I know baseball is heavily underway, and the guys the blues picked up , well lets say not exactly groundbreaking news. but the Post had virtually nothing, at all about them. barely a drop of ink was devoted to them. why is this?

also I am saddened to see Walker go... to chicago of all places... I was a big fan of his and felt he never got the respect he deserved from the team/coaches. I feel he easily was one of the top 6 Dmen we had. maybe not all the time, maybe not talent wise. but his performances on the ice should have earned him more time.

Jeff Gordon: Blues have been very, very quiet. I'll write about them from time to time here in STLToday, but there has been almost no news at all. Which makes Blues fans sad.

HEG: Gordo here the Cardinals are 53-43 at the break and probably lucky to have that record with their injury situation; but granted they could easily have 5 or 6 more wins. I do not look for the Cardinals to make any significant deals in the near future especially if Flores comes back filling left-handed reliever need; but I feel the need for a lefty starter especially since Mulder is unable to fill that role; but there is some teams where one needs a left-handed starter; maybe Garcia can fill that role? Do you feel personally they will make significant deal or deals?

Jeff Gordon: Garcia could be the lefty starter by next year, but I'd be shocked if he help up in that role this year. Eventually the rotation will feature Carpenter, Wainwright, Lohse, Looper and Wellemyer/Pineiro. That's not bad -- so I don't see a big deal for a lefty starter.

bradtrowbridge: I can't take it anymore. I live in Wrigleyville and am a diehard Cardinals fan. Please tell me they will get Matt Holliday and Brian Fuentes or at least Freddy Garcia and Christian Guzman.

Jeff Gordon: Holliday is a great player, but the team is stacked in the outfield with guys playing for a fraction of what Holliday will command long-term. Spend the money in other areas -- like the bullpen, where Fuentes would help.

zimmy: the bullpen needs help. not just a lefty. All due respect to Franklin, hes an awesome setup man, but not really a closer. Izzy, i'm rooting for the guy but does he still have it in him? Is Perez ready to step into that role?
If /when Carp comes back might he step into that role? at least briefly?

Jeff Gordon: Nah, the Cards need him in the rotation. How about Wellemeyer in that role?

D-Mac: What are the chances that the Cardinals get a trade done this summer? They are going to lose a lot of dead weight payroll after this year so can't they make a deal now for a pitcher and/or a power bat? Also, who do they need to lock up before free agency besides Lohse?

Jeff Gordon: Money isn't the issue. Trading kids is. Lohse needs a long-term deal. So does Ankiel. Maybe Ludwick, too, for two or three years. Next year the team could use some of that new money for a FA shortstop.

Harold: Hey man quick questions, whats the news (if any) on the ballpark villiage?
Poetential players the Cards could trade for to help St. Louis ? What do you think the Cards will do if they want to resign Kyle Lohse how long how much ? 2 years 18 mil? plus incentives could make it more then 18 mil?
Rams- your thoughts on them for this season?
Blues- your thoughts on them as well?
THANKS

Jeff Gordon: If I'm Lohse, I want at least $40 million and four more years.
We've covered trade stuff. Ballpark Village is going nowhere, as of now. Rams: Maybe 7-9. Blues: About 15 games over .500, with OTWs, and a fight for the last playoff spot.

Scott Andersen: I'm a Cards fan living in Indianapolis and have to dig a little to keep up-to-date, but I have heard no mention of the Birds trying to sign Lohse to an extension. Sorry if this has been already addressed.

PS I thinking signing Bonds is a low cost/low risk option the Cards should pursue. What are your thoughts?

Jeff Gordon: We've covered Lohse. Bonds would be a low-risk, but not low cost. He has too much pride for that.

Pat: Why does thompson get no love from the managers/ team? Hes solid , you know what your getting. but no they roll out Parisi, Mulder(HA) and a parade of other pitchers infront of THompson. plug him into the rotation, give him a stable spot in the 'pen just keep him up here and let him pitch!

Jeff Gordon: Great question. Thompson is better than many of the stopgap players up for bidding this month. I thought he threw fine his last time out, too.

EricW137: Molina's batting average wasn't good enough to win the gold glove lat year. This year after leading ALL NL catchers in avg. did his glove leave him out of the All Star game?

Jeff Gordon: The injury was ill-timed, for sure. That hurt. But Soto is a monster offensively, so you can't begrudge that.

Fyten: Are you on the radio now?

Jeff Gordon: Yes, at 590 the fan. Call in!

Lucas: I know this gets asked time and time again, but do you seriously see us doing anything other than a mid market LH relief pitcher at the trade deadline. It seems if we were to get one more power bat and LH relief we could compete with the cubs and brewers.

Jeff Gordon: Fans want Jason Bay as the power bat, but his numbers the last two years aren't as good as Ludwick's numbers -- and he is a better outfielder, too.

zimmy: I've always been a fan of the Frontier league, these are kids fighting it out, playing for their lives & trying to make it to something bigger. one of the rascals is with the yanks. The Grizzlies have some good players. esp their catcher Lisk comes to mind, he lead the league in homers til recently. do the cards ever scout these teams ? they are right in our own backyard...

Jeff Gordon: Sure, area scouts check these teams -- especially for pitchers. It's not uncommon for hurlers to get signed by big league teams looking to add arms for the minors.

EricW137: How come no one is talking about Molina not making the All Star team as much as they are Lohse?

Jeff Gordon: Molina hasn't been a huge run producer, so he had that working against him.

Fyten: Which of the three third base prospects (Craig, Freese, Wallace) is most likely to replace Glaus after next year?

Jeff Gordon: Wallace can't move well laterally, so it will hard to play him at third. Freese is the best bet.

Kyle: Hi Jeff, thanks gain for taking my question and maintaining the forum to do so...

Last week or so you wrote an article outlining the Blues financial commitments to several players and what that meant for the free agent market and their participation in it. Firstly, I was struck by the amount EJ was receiving pursuant to his 'Entry Level' contract and how that didn't seem to jive with the language in the new CBA. Cross-referencing I found that Patrick Kane's deal was in the same neighborhood as well. What do you think this does for the league moving forward in a cap environment that players are getting big money without a proven second of NHL ice time (no offense to EJ because he's been impressive under the circumstances thus far). With that said, how can fans and the media continue to beat McKee up about his salary (which may be warranted nonetheless) when it's only $300K more than a guy who hasn't even skated a shift against the big boys? Secondly, looking around the league past July 1st you'll see that some big players who've made big money just a few years ago have signed new deals with clubs at a fraction of what they were commanding before i.e. Weight, Bertuzzi, Kolzig. Do you think it's likely Shanny could be squeezed out in NYC and lured elsewhere for smaller dollars? Do you think the Blues could bring him here under that premise? Do you think it would be beneficial for the club (and a good value) for $1.5-$2.5M a year plus incentives? (You know fans would dig it!)

Thanks and I appreciate your comments!

Jeff Gordon: Shanny could go to Montreal. Would he be good here at the right dollars? Sure. Maybe, just maybe, something like that could work here.

As for Johnson and Kane, the top-of-the-draft guys are getting a certain dollar level. I don't mind it, relative to NFL dollars for the top picks. Johnson had the additional leverage of going back to college, so that allowed him to get a max deal.

As for McKee, his limited ability -- shot blocking is pretty much it -- makes it hard to justify $16 million over four. Although that deal doesn't look as bad today, after so many guys got big dollars.

Jeff B: I've heard Holliday and Fuentes thrown around a lot, as well as Jason Bay for trade candidates the Cards fans seem to savor. What big bat and arm would YOU want the Cardinals to go after?

Jeff Gordon: Durham at 2B would change the offense a bit, with more power. Guzman would do the same at SS. Herges could help the pen. Rauch would, too, although the Nats want a ton.

StSpiff: If Bonds really wanted to get back into the Majors, shouldn't he be the Independent League getting some ABs to prove he still has the stuff?

Jeff Gordon: Barry will NOT do the Gibbons thing. His ego is too big.

Adam: What is mulder's future is he done? Do you see ankiel giving us a hometown discount? When do you see brett wallace coming to the majors, 2 years?

Jeff Gordon: Wallace could be hitting the in the bigs at the end of next year. He is that good. Mulder? He's probably done. Sad.

Matthew G.: Any chance the Cards start negotiating with Lohse during the season?

I think it's pretty clear that if he makes it to the end of the season with no contract, he is gone.

Shouldn't all negotiations with Boras start with, "Remember when we drafted your kid....well...."

Jeff Gordon: Lohse would take a fair deal today,I believe, regardless of what Boras said. He is taking all the risk by pitching for less than $5 million this year. I'd give him $40 million over the next four -- but I know DeWitt is reluctant to throw long-term money at hurlers, with some justification.

Todd F: Gordo,
What ever happened to Darius Miles?

Isn't it nice that Kareem and Brandon Rush get to play together for awhile?

Where do you think Brett the flip flopper Favre will end up?

Also, there needs to be more Dippin Dots locations at the stadium, could you make sure that happens? Thanks

Jeff Gordon: Can't help you with the Dots.

How about Favre in Miami? Just like Marino at the end, only he can move.

Miles is a sad case, a combo of injuries and attitude. He is the argument against letting players come to the NBA too soon without the right support system in place.

Eddie: Hey Jeff!

Are there any other "impact" bats that we haven't heard about? Bay, Holliday, and Bonds are the only ones we've heard about. Personally, I'm not a Bonds fan and never have been and I don't know that we have what it takes to get the other two and if it will really be an improvement.

Jeff Gordon: Teixeira tops the list, but he has no place. Same for Sexson, possibly heading to the Yankees. Nady is a guy the Braves really like. B. Roberts is coveted by the Cubs. There are plenty of possibilities.

Gerald Hildabrand: Hey, Gordo, I love your work. I fully believe that the best trade targets for the Cardinals would be Cleveland shortstop Jhonny Peralta and one of three lefty relievers. Brian Fuentes and Damaso Marte would certainly fill that need, but since I think they might cost too much in young talent I would go after the Giants' Jack Taschner.

Jeff Gordon: Marte is a realistic target. The Cards might be able to make that happen. Peralta is one of those are power-hitting SS, somebody we've talked about. Having power there or at second base would change the offense more than replacing one of the OFs with another OF.

That appears to be all for this week. Thanks for all the questions!