Pete: Three names come to mind as possibly warranting a shot or at least a look at the major league level. If they're concerned with settling some problems in house, why haven't they summoned the likes of Brian Barden (hitting very well at AAA and can play multiple infield positions), Ron Flores, and Jason Motte. I know Flores and Motte have faltered slightly from the start of the season, but they continue to post good enough numbers to at least warrant some consideration. I saw Flores pitch last time we were in Oakland in Interleague play, and I liked what I saw of his stuff and ability to work multiple innings. Enlighten me captain oh my captain.

Jeff Gordon: Barden is having a fine year and the Cards cheerfully freed him up to play in the Olympics. But unless Glaus got hurt, there was no job for him here with Izturis, Miles, Kennedy and Ryan fighting for at bats. Even Cesar's injury wasn't enough to get him here, since La Russa wanted to give the other guys the ABs.

Motte could be here by the end of the year. He throws very hard, but, as Perez learned, a great fastball isn't enough at this level.

Ron Flores has pitched OK, but Jimenez got the last call because he threw well as the team's closer. Boggs seemed in line for today's call because he can pitch long relief if the need arises. The way things have gone this year, nobody would be shocked if Ron did get a look at some point. He IS experienced, as you noted, and the organization sees him as a valuable depth pitcher.

Ben: Hey Gordo,
What are the chances Reyes gets the start on Friday?
Thanks,
Ben

Jeff Gordon: He started Sunday in Memphis, so the Cards seemed ready to promote Boggs instead. Don't know if that is official.

erich_stlmo@yahoo.com: Hey gordo! How are you doing? I got a question. I was just wondering do you think if the Rams had drafted Glen Dorsey instead of Chris Long do you think that they would of tried too persue in a similiar trade that the Washington Redskins did too get Jason Taylor? And if the trade was sucessful do you think the Rams would have a better team then what they have now?

Jeff Gordon: I'm not sure the Rams would have gone for a one-year solution at defensive end, given the other veterans at the position. And I'm not sure Taylor would have wanted to come to a 3-13 team, even if he liked Linehan. That was the sort of move that a playoff contender makes.

tim: Ive heard rumors on Michael Huff coming to the Rams. Any truth to that?

Jeff Gordon: There were lots of trade rumors surrounding Huff around the NFL draft. But figuring out what the Raiders are doing is NOT easy. Rams fans are eager to add another athlete at this position. They are promoting this Huff rumor on Rams forums. Given the team's lack of quality depth at safety, I would expect the team to be open to an addition as camp grinds on.

tim: Could the Rams make a run at Takeo Spikes or Lacharles Bently?

Jeff Gordon: Does Spikes have much mobility left? I'm not sure. He could still be a leader type, but the Rams have a couple of those. They need the kids to come along.

As for Bentley, the Rams already have two starting center for one spot. Why add one more? Either Romberg or Incognito would be fine there and the other guy would be a great back-up. Setterstrom backs up there as well.