Josie Wales: Good day Mr. Gordo!
This whole thing about being the "Best Fans In Baseball". We're well mannered because we live in the midwest. We're knowledgable but so are the fans in many / most other towns. I've loved the Cards for 50+ years now, reveling in the good years and holding my nose through the bad. That said, It's easy to back a winner. How many of these "best fans" would just bail if the team struggled (remember the '70's). The self importance is wearing me out.
I have a friend who's a Cubs fan. Backing a loser with love and devotion, year after year, that's a FAN!
Thanks for the chat.

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, I'm old enough to remember coming to a near-empty Busch Stadium to watch some really bad teams play. But the fans have been steady since the Herzog Era, even when things got tough in the early 90s.

Josie Wales: Jeff,
Much is being made over Pujol's statement about wanting to finish his career as a Cardinal. What was he supposed to say? "I can't wait to leave", or "Show me the money"? It's kind of like when my wife asked "Does this dress make me look fat?". No matter what you really think you go with with the safe answer.
Chat on Mr. G

Jeff Gordon: True, but I do think he wants to stay. He is king here. His wife is queen. The team tries to build everything around him. As long as he gets paid, he'll stay.

DBQIA: How was Hargrove?

Jeff Gordon: He played OK, although the Rams O-line was strong throughout in the run AND pass game.

Jayman: If you could look into a crystal ball and see a stats of one Cardinal player for the whole season of 2010, who would it be and why?

Jeff Gordon: Albert is predictable. He will give you at least .320/40/120.

hewie2: What's the status on a potential McGwire news conference? I see Big Mac as a potential distraction from the business of the ballclub--especially for the national media--until his "enhancement issues" get aired out. Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: I'd expect it long before the holiday season.

Tackleberry: Gordo,

In your postgame chat people addressed the terrible two-minute drill at the end of the game. This team has had an issue with that since the days of Martz. They operate with absolutley no urgency, make bad decisions (like that pass over the middle), and allow time to just leak off of the clock. Someone would certainly be in the right if the gave the "Bull Durham" lolly-gagging speech to this offense.

Jeff Gordon: I didn't expect much, given the limited personnel and the limited practice this team has actually passing the ball. Someday they will get better at that. First, they need to get better on offense period.

Tim Kennedy: Worst case scenario, we don't sign Holliday,what are our real chances of signing DeRosa? And, will Schmoltz pitch for us again. Last but not least, will David Freese really get a chance to win the 3rd base job in Spring training. Keep up the good work on 590.

Jeff Gordon: Freese will get every chance to make the team, as a starter or as bench beef. It is possible that the Cards will sign a guy who can play 3B or OF, like DeRosa or Figgins. That would provide some protection. The Cards don't want to be exposed in case Freese struggles.

The competition for DeRosa will be fierce. But if the Cards buck up, he'll stay.

BillP.: Hey Jeff, I was reading your post-game chat, I thought Spags looked like he was saying a prayer, I'm glad you confirmed that. The team responds well to Spagnuolo and continues to play hard which is impressive at this point. And it really does appear that Spags and Devaney will build a team that has quality depth. Even when the Rams had good teams from 04 thru 06, those teams did not have good depth. Spags and Devaney are showing an eye for talent. All this team needs is some star power and we'll have ourselves a contender. I saw on last weeks chat where you directed someone to Steve Rosenblooms Rosenblog in the Chicago Tribune. I went and checked it out, and it's entertaining stuff. Thanks for the tip. Another sidenote, does Dick Vermeil ever give a bad recommendation? Heard earlier today he was endorsing Larry Johnson. Thanks - Have a good week!

Jeff Gordon: Vermeil pounds guys when he has them, but he is a softie at heart. Remember how he kept giving Larry Phillips good recommendations?

BillP.: One more thing, that reminds me about Rosenbloom, I read his article where he was making a pitch for Forsberg. Do you see the Hawks actually pursuing this? Thanks

Jeff Gordon: That team has cap issues and Peter wants $4 million a year. Chicago would have to make some deals to create room.

ueaces: Hi Gordon,
Thanks for all your good work and effort that you do with the chats.
Like many Cardinal fans, I came to the conclusion that when M. Holliday did not resign right away with the ballclub that we had next to zero chance of regaining his services. I am beginning to wonder, however, if I am being a little premature. I really don't think he and Boras are going to land a $100 million deal, nor get Soriano money either. That, I believe, gives the birds, at least a little more than a glimmer of hope. Obviosly, the next several weeks will tell us all that we will need to know, but does St. Louis still have a shot at him?

Jeff Gordon: We are in bluff mode now. GMs insist they won't spend big on Matt and Boras insists they will. More times than not, Scott wins the bluff. But he didn't win it on Lohse, which is how the Cards got him in the first place.

So, yes, there is hope. If the Yankees and Mets both take a pass, then it will look better for STL.

SouthernIllinoisBoy: How upset will Luhnow be if the Cardinals have to part with their 1st and 2nd round draft picks by signing a Type A free agent after trading away so many of his prize prospects? Gotta believe he's hoping Holliday returns, big time.

Also, what happens regarding compensation if St. Louis signs two Type A talents (let's say a hitter and a pitcher)?

Jeff Gordon: If the team can't keep Holliday, Jeff would probably cheer for Mozeliak to at least keep DeRosa and pocket the compensation for Matt.

There is a chance the Cards would sign a "Type A" pitcher or hitter, due to the the urgency to win next year. That would Jeff's job tougher, but, hey, that's life. The other option is trading more prospects for a veteran.

SouthernIllinoisBoy: I've learned St. Louis would receive only a sandwich pick at the end of the 1st round of 2010 draft along with a 2nd round pick should the Metropolitans sign Holliday; the Cards would NOT get NY's regular 1st round pick, which would be several picks and much better talent higher up in the draft after the Mets stunk up the 2009 regular season. If I'm the Mets, aside from dealing with the salary demands of Borass, having to give up only a sandwich pick and a 2nd rounder would be plenty of incentive for me to sign the best FA in baseball at a position of need and to generate some added positive publicity after the cross-town team won all the marbles.

Since it appears to me St. Louis seems sure to get bilked one way or another regarding Mr. Holliday and his Wall Street-esque agent, explain, please, how such a raw deal is allowed to pass in the mlb rules of compensation. Also, what exactly happened that the Mets get to "protect" their regular 1st rounder and not have to accept a sandwich pick instead of getting to keep their top draft pick should they sign the top free agent this season?

Jeff Gordon: There are all sorts of issues with the compensation system, as this story indicates. http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=jp-typea090409&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

A team like the Mets doesn't sweat spending picks like the Cards do, since that team can afford to buy players whenever necessary. Player development isn't as important there. And there is always great urgency to win.

gianni: Gordo: I do not understand why TLR has no one on the team who can steal bases and walk 100 times per year--a true table setter. What exactly is his offensive philosophy? He does not manufacture runs--he seems to be waiting for the big hit or the three run homer. Mo, Dewitt and TLR act like Holiday is the answer yet they still struggled to score runs even with Lurch in left field. Why don't we have a Carl Crawford type any where in the organization? Willie Mcghee and Vince Coleman types don't exist any more for the Cards. This is fundamentally flawed---whiteyball could score a run with a walk and an eventual single because we had table setters, stealers--speed. We're still not going to score runs this next year with Holliday or not. Lou Brock could still steal more bases than any one on this team and he's in his sixties! And don't defend TLR without supporting scientific data--or blindly.

Jeff Gordon: The team doesn't have a 100-SB guy in the minors, but it has drafted speed. Guys like Greene, Jon Jay and Daryl Jones have stolen bases in the minors.

Fact is, there are very, very few game-changing base stealers any more. Compare the eras. It is not even close. The game changed for a lot of reasons.

Teams do a better job defending the running game these days, which further negates that element of the game.

And teams will simply walk Albert any time somebody steals in front of him. Then what?

lujack2800: Hi Jeff, What a game, Ram fans should sleep good tonight knowing that Spags got this team playing with heart and a team that will never gives up, they really showed up today by for the best game of the season, I think we will have a few more before the end of the season. Looking at the schedule I see 4 winnable games. split with Cards. beat 9er,Seatle, and Bears, lose to cards,Houston,Tennessee. Now my question is if the Rams do end up with 5 wins that would put them drafting about 7-12 lets say 10th Suh,Berry,either or both Locker & Clausen is gone who you feel would be a good fit for the Rams at 10.

Thanks Lujack

Jeff Gordon: I believe three wins would be a good finish for this team, all considering.

cp: Your colleague -- Jeremy Rutherford -- listed Al McInnis, Chris Pronger and Barclay Plager as the three best defensemen in Blues history in The Hockey News. I know Plager was a player of immense character with all of the intangibles, but come on. Can you honestly say he was better than Rob Ramage, Jeff Brown or Scott Stevens (even though he only played one season in St. Louis)?

Jeff Gordon: Since Scott was here for just one year -- and considering what the Blues did in their earliest days -- I can't argue with JR.

Lawarence Marmie: Gordo,

So...how about those Yankees?

Jeff Gordon: Good for guys like Damon and Matsui, but I generally have little use for the big overdog.

rich: Jeff: I know the Rams haven't needed much of a 2 minute drill this season but yesterday's lack of any type at all probably cost us the game.

Jeff Gordon: That, or the TD kickoff return or Amendola's devastating drop. The Rams were ill--equipped to pull out a game late against that opponent.

cardinalcountry: Mr Gordon:

Do you think Derosa's wrist will cause him to hit fewer home runs in 2010 than he has the last couple of years?

Jeff Gordon: His homer total was fine. It hurt his ability to hit for average.

Lawarence Marmie: So, does the NFL offer free clinics to coaches? If so, I would send Spagnoulo and Shurmer to "Clock Management 101". Everyone is pointing at the check down pass to Steven Jackson for losing the game and blaming Bulger, but I think the more important play was before that when Randy McMichael finally caught a pass and converted a 1st down. The coaching staff should have been signaling for the offense to get to the line to ground the ball to stop the clock, but they didn't. The offense wasted a lot of time lining up for the next play and then the check down pass came a play or two later. Perhaps had the clock been stopped and there been time to talk about the next series of plays, the checkdown never would have been thrown. Granted, we haven't been in the position to win many games in the 4th quarter lately, but the coaching staff needs to have the players more ready in that situation.

Jeff Gordon: Perhaps the shock of it all got the better of them.

Ram_Malavasi: Gordo:

Any insight on why Spags only dresses 4 WRs each game (and whether or not he will dress 5 next week)? Who would he have to sit down in order to have the extra receiver active? Is it because the TE is supposed to be a bigger key in the passing game when using the WCO?

BTW, although a win would have been great yesterday, I am very pleased with how the Rams played tough against the Saints...having them lose on the last play of the game (as opposed to halfway thru the 3rd quarter) is refreshing...

Jeff Gordon: That has been his deal all year. Four WRs because the team just doesn't plan to pass much. That has to change or the Rams won't win often.

Michael Kent: Greetings Jeff ...

During the latter stages of the '09 season, I noticed a fair amount of discussion about the need to give Yadier Molina more breaks from his catching duties. In 2009, Yadi had personal single-season highs in both games and innings behind the plate.

Over the past couple of seasons Molina has become a greater offensive force, which makes it more difficult for TLR to keep Yadi's bat out of the lineup. However, TLR certainly has to be able to effectively manage the "miles" being logged by his two-time Gold Glove catcher.

This begs the question on who will the Cards bring in to be their backup catcher. Jason LaRue has certainly proven his worth in the backup role, but if the Cards commit to sitting Yadi more often, I'd think they'd like a backup with a little more offensive upside. (Did someone say "Bryan Anderson"?) LaRue improved with his bat last season, but is it enough?

Also, just wondering ... assuming Jaime Garcia earns that No. 5 rotation spot in '10, would you expect TLR and DD to ensure that Molina always catches for Garcia? It just seems that Garcia, as a younger pitcher, would be more comfortable and settled if he had Molina behind the plate, mostly because of Yadi's experience but partly because they share a Latin American connection.

Please, share your thoughts on all this.

Thanks as always.

Jeff Gordon: Molina is getting some miles on those legs, so, yes, it would be better to rest him more. The back-up needs to be able to hit, which is where LaRue improved. The problem with getting a former starter to do this job is the difficulty of all the sitting. Unless the Cards develop emergency catchers, it is tough to give the back-up catcher some ABs as a PH. And lacking the ABs, the back-up gets frustrated.

If Garcia makes it, it would be nice to have Molina help him through those early starts, yes. Jaime looked pretty nervous two years ago when he came up.

Lee: Jeff,

Thanks for taking questions.

Would the Cards consider trading for Miguel Cabrera LF if they miss out on signing Matt Holliday? If so, what would it take to get MC?

Do you see the Cards making a play for one of these starters Wolf, Davis, Bedard, Garland or trading for a starting pitcher?

Do the Cards consider LaTroy Hawkins a good late inning compliment to Franklin?

Thanks,
Lee

Jeff Gordon: Cabrera can't play left field, so that is out of the questions. The Tigers could trade him, given that huge contract, but he has a lot of issues beyond just conditioning.

They have shown interest in Wolf before. It'll be interesting to see where his money goes. That could be a great option, as opposing to overpaying to keep Pineiro.

To me, Hawkins is just like Franklin. I'd rather have a power guy with the potential go move into the closer's role. Rodney is such a guy, but he wants a closing gig.

keithv: Jeff, any good news for St. Louis on the sale of the Rams and your prediction on the Rams staying long term? In your opinion, does Checketts get the group together?

Jeff Gordon: Bernie has a comprehensive update elsewhere on the site. Check it out. It appears there is no shortage of interest in this team.

To me, Checketts hasn't proven capable of fully funding the Blues. Some aspects of that operation are run on a shoestring. Of all those rich people he knows, it would be nice of more of them invested in hockey.

Ram-o-Rama: Hey Gordo,

I can't believe it! They carried Burton off the field on a cart yesterday and the Post doesn't have anything this morning about it? I was at the game and didn't have the benefit of TV or radio. What happened to him????

Jeff Gordon: Patella injury. With this regime, you don't get any real medical update until Monday afternoon. It seemed obvious that he was done for the year, but Spags wouldn't come out and say that Sunday afternoon.

Reading Ram: Gordo,

I know that the Rams FO occasionally reads these chats. That being said I would like to thanks them for giving us Rams fan hope again.

The last several years the Rams fans have had more and more frustration and backwards sliding. We had coaches and FOs that could not let go of the past and could not evaluate talent and the team was in a downward spiral that seemed endless.

Then the new coaches came in and the new FO and they looked at the team through a new light. I want them to know that we believe in them and most if not all of use lifelong fans see the light at the end of the tunnel.

I want to praise the progress of the coaches, as a coach myself I know how there is a learning curve for the coaches as much as the players and their progression has been as impressive as it has for the players.

I want to mention the Billy D. while unders a huge microscope has found promise in the darkest of corners. Brandon Gibson, Amendola, Laurent Robinson, Fletcher and the list goes on.

I speak for myself and many others in the Rams nation when I say that for the first time in a long time the arrow is pointing up and we are excited to see what happens next week.

I wish there was some way that I could tell the players and the Rams FO to have heart and that they are not alone, there are thousands of us backing them and cheering for their success.

GO GET THEM RAMS! We may not make the playoffs this year but let every team we play know that this is a new Rams team and show them that in the near future we will be a force to be reckoned with!

GO RAMS!!!

Jeff Gordon: We'll pass this along in case the New Regime actually does read the chat. One by one, the Rams ARE adding some players to build around. Gibson is a great example.

Now that J. Smith and Long are playing better -- and Avery is scoring touchdowns -- fans should feel better about the young nucleus.

RedRedRed: Hello Gordo! and Thanx!

What do you think of this? The Cards need to consider the "Ludwick" factor when going after a big bat. (This presumes Lud has a couple more years of his previous reduction). Big money should not be spent on someone unless they are an upgrade over Luddy. Nady? better be cheap. Holliday, Dunn, Bay, OK, but how much better, off and def, are they? Arguable, but I will vote for Chone.

Your thoughts on this, plus any other suggestions? Also, didn't we have trouble in the LA series because of inconsistency in starting pitching, lack of a shutdown closer, and defensive issues, as much as offensive anemia? I admit it was a short series, but anyway, let's go for Randy Wolf and Soriano.

Thanks,
Red

Jeff Gordon: Both of those hurlers would add key elements currently missing. As for the other OF bat to go with Rasmus and Ludwick, the Cards need to get some pop there. I could live with DeRosa returning as the third OF and 3B insurance with more money going into pitching and some money going into reserve for purchases next summer, after injuries hit (or don't hit) and young players develop (or don't). Next summer, the Cards might see different needs than they see now.

Mark S: I know it was only one game for Brandon Gibson, but he looked like there may be something special there. My question is this: with what Laurent Robinson was doing before his injury, and if Gibson continues to impress and throw up numbers, is it possible that, between the two of them and Avery, the Rams have addressed their WR needs enough that they can push it down on the list of priorities for this coming offseason? And we haven't even seen what Brooks Foster might bring to the table...

Jeff Gordon: Also, you can't write Burton off totally because of the injuries. Yes, Gibson could make it easy to pass on a WR in the earlier rounds IF he keeps this up.

I'd like to see what Martin adds, if anything, before the season ends. Perhaps Burton's injury will force that to happen.

Brian: Kudos for the Rams making the game entertaining yesterday, but what the heck was up with that final drive? Horrible play calling, time management, etc. Bulger looked like he had never been in that position before.

Jeff Gordon: With those receivers, and that coordinator, he hadn't.

Brian: Will the real Mizzou football team please stand up?

Jeff Gordon: If that was the real team -- with a healthy Gabbert and some kids who grew up the hard way against Baylor -- then this team can still get to eight victories and a non-Shreveport bowl game.

Bluff Boy: Do u see us taking a chance on Ben Sheets? Why not sign him and pay him for the way he pitches like a Clement Type deal. I do not see us getting one of our fish back. Have u herd what the money is on Matt and Derosa? 17 Mill is what we talked about last week has that changed? I will be sick if we gave up all those players and lose both of them. We need to give Matt our all in and if he wants to go to the evil empire let him, then we have to get DeRosa back.

Do us see Charlie Weis getting dumped? Gruden sounds good to me! Thanks!

Jeff Gordon: Weis appears doomed and Gruden will campaign for the gig. But will Notre Dame fall for a NFL guy again?

Sheets is real risky. Since the Cards are solid at No. 1 and No. 2, he would have to assume most of the risk to come here. I see other teams more willing to bet on him.

Boras wants more than $17 million for Holliday. Let's see what the market does. I agree on DeRosa.

9elbirdos: Gordo,

Would the Cardinals possibly be interested in Aubrey Huff as lfhanded bench w/ pop. Plus he can backup 1B 3B limited lf. Thanks for your time.

Jeff Gordon: Good player, but he may want more playing time than that. He fits needs, though. If nobody wants him as a starter, that could be interesting.

9elbirdos: Gordo,

I was impressed with the Rams play on defense on Sunday. If not for the kickoff return for TD they could have kicked a game winning FG on that last drive to win the game. Plus there where a alot of dropped passes as well Sunday. Your thoughts.

Jeff Gordon: The Amendola drop was devastating. As was the kickoff return. On balance, the Rams played a Super Bowl-caliber team to a standoff. That was quite a step.

schurch1984: Given the circumstances, I think Bulger has begun to build a case that he should maybe stick around here next year. I'm not saying that I don't think the Rams shouldn't seriously consider drafting a QB in the first 3 rounds next year, however, I do think that Bulger is more than just a future career backup. If he is given some weapons Bulger can make plays. He's been the victim the past 2-3 years of being on a horrible team with horrible coaches. I think that this game may be something he can build upon to regain his confidence(which I think has been his biggest problem recently) and emerge once again as a pro bowl quarterback. Some people out there contribute Marc Bulger to being one of this team's biggest weaknesses, where as the real blame lies in my mind squarely on those accountable for the horrid drafts this team has put together since 2000. While he has not played his best, he is surely not one of the primary problems.

Jeff Gordon: The bad pick aside, I didn't mind him in this game. The Rams don't have much of a hurry-up offense with three surviving WRs -- one a new guy, one a kick returner -- so I wasn't shocked by the ending.

I did like Marc's ability to buy some time with his feet to make plays. Haven't eeen much of that.

If he can play like that from here on out, then he would be an OK stopgap QB while the Rams get the next guy ready.

Ed C: Gordo,

Do you agree with the D grade given the defensive line and linebackers? I don't understand really - the defense holds the high flying Saints offense to 21 points and they get a D. They were the first to hold Saints scoreless in a quarter in a long time. You can complain about the 200+ rushing, but many times it looked to me like the LBs were responsible getting deep drops for pass protection which I would guess would open up the running game. Also many of those yards came on a couple of long runs - I don't know the receivers get a B+ but as mentioned there were some very costly drops on easy catches. I thought Bulger played a good game but if you wanted you could argue that his mistakes cost the game - I mean on that interception in the endzone Trent Green was commenting that all he needs to do is watch whether the safety bites on the TE across the middle, which he didn't. I just don't think you can give B's to WR and QB and give the D-line and LBs D's.

Jeff Gordon: We had some LBs missing in action on a couple of those big plays -- like Bush's 55-yard romp -- but the Rams held New Orleans to 21 points and turned the ball back to the offense twice. Hard to do that with poor front seven play.

Ed C: Gordo,

Last week you argued that Ankiel's hitting demise was one of the reasons for letting Hal McRae go. If that's the case, assuming we can't sign Holliday why not bring Ankiel back and see what McGwire can do with him? That assumes he won't cost too much, which I can't imagine he will after last season. He's an excellent defender, can play center if necessary to spell Rasmus, LaRussa loves him and he never was quite right after his run-in with the wall. Maybe McGwire can help him regain his powerstroke and forget about the wall.

Jeff Gordon: Trouble is, Boras wants to get his guy a starting CF job. And given the sad state of teams like Pittsburgh, he made get a multi-year deal, based on his defense.

Cardfanintheozarks: Who (and why) should have the inside track on making the club going into spring training?

A. Craig
B. Mather
C. Stavinoa (sp?)

Jeff Gordon: Craig earned first shot with a remarkable finish at Memphis. His versatility makes a big difference, too.

Not sure if Mather and Stavinoha will be in the mix, given the struggle to find spots for everybody on the 40-man roster.

Nick showed some ability to get good pinch at bats, which is a useful skill. And Mather has to prove he's healthy. His ability to play third doesn't help him as much as it would have last year, had he been healthy and productive.

Stryker: Sitting in front of a curtain wide receivers entourage at the game yesterday a thought came to mind when he dropped a very catch-able pass in a crucial moment of the game. Why can we not complete passes???!!! Is it the QB or is it the WR? Can the Rams have a pro bowl QB and he gets the ball to average WR or can a pro bowl WR pull in the ball from an average to moderately bad QB? Basically what needs to comes first for the Rams Gordo the pro bowl QB or pro bowl WR?

Jeff Gordon: Sometimes it's on the QB, sometimes the WR. Gibson saved Bulger with a shoetop catch on play, but Amendola drops a ball out of his breadbasket on another play.

That is why the Rams have one win.

kymizzou1: I have never been happy after a loss until yesterday. This team really does seem to be getting better. If the Rams can keep playing like they did against the Saints yesterday when do you think some of these close losses will turn into wins?

Jeff Gordon: When the Rams host the 49ers.

gocards&rams: Jeff,

Thanks for doing these chats. I really do appreciate getting additional insight to my favorite teams. A couple of thoughts after watching the Rams I would love your commentary on.
1) Brandon Gibson seemed big and strong out there yesterday. His YAC was very encouraging. Is it possible that if he progresses we could have a solid WR core coming in to next year - #1) L. Robinson #2) D. Avery #3) B. Gibson #4) K. Burton #5) D. Amendola (return specialist) #6) R. Martin (let's see what he can do the rest of this year with Burton presumably on the shelf)
2) Do we actually now have an offensive line? Steven Jackson is a beast, but his last couple of HUGE games have to be attributable to an offensive line that is finally gaining momentum and finding some cohesiveness. I think the improvement in these two area (Alex Barron situation notwithstanding) could allow the Rams to focus on other needs in the offseason.

Jeff Gordon: Dare we suggest the Rams re-up Alex Barron and keep the group together? Adam Goldberg is doing nicely at right guard, filling in for Richie. smith has come on nicely. Brown is a horse. All in all, there are reasons to smile.

Wild Bill: Hey Gordo,
How long did Andy Murry coach the the Kings? Can you draw any comparisons between how his LA teams preformed over that time and how the Blues have been doing since he took over.

Jeff Gordon: He coached there 5 1/2 years. There was some concern that his message got stale after all that time, but that is still a heck of a run there in LA.

Any time a coach stays past a year or two, that is a challenge. Period. It just is.

Cards Shark: In his last full year in Memphis Freese had 111 strikeouts and 39 walks.
Source: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?y=2008&t=t_ibp&cid=235

That is almost a 3 strikeout to walk ratio and that was in AAA. I think it is likely that his strikeout to walk ratio will only get worse if he faces better pitching in the Majors. It seems to me that David Freese could end up being the next Rick Ankiel. Why are the Cardinals so committed to starting Freese at third base?

Jeff Gordon: Good glove. He has always hit for average and produced runs. He jumped from High A to Class AAA without missing a bit. His plate discipline got much better last season.

There is some thought that the Cards need to protect themselves in case he can't make the jump, so I bet they add (or keep) a veteran of some description capable of playing 3B.

Lawarence Marmie: Hey Gordo,

With the WR injury history of this team- isn't it unexcusable and unfathomable that this coach and this general manager keep going into games with 4 WRs? I really don't understand their thinking when it seems to bite them in the azz week after week.

Jeff Gordon: I agree. This team needs a more aggressive passing game, one that includes 4 WRs from time to time -- and at least five WRs dressed.

davulture24: I noticed so many people have commented on/questioned the Patriots decision to go for it on 4th and 2. The Rams had a opportunity on 4th and 2 themselves in the 3rd quarter. Down 21-14, and in the Redzone, I think the Rams made a mistake in not giving the ball to Jackson for the attempt to convert. With plenty of time remaining and so close to the endzone, why not try for it? Would have been the points needed for the tie/win.

Jeff Gordon: The Patriots are the Patriots, the Rams are the Rams. At that point in the game, I had no problem with the team taking points.

nevadariverranch: Hello Jeff, after 24 hrs, do you think that the Rams played really good or the Saints just had a bad day?

Jeff Gordon: The Rams played a lot better on many fronts. Can't argue against that. Naturally, the Saints lament those turnovers, which kept the Rams around.

Roanoke: Who do the Rams look for to replace Burton on the roster? Who's on the practice squad?

Jeff Gordon: In our lifetime, perhaps Martin will be active for a game. Why not? Let's see if he can play. Beyond that, the Rams will need to find a guy.

joe: Jeff: For the last 2 or 3 weeks ESPN and ESPN HD have shown different football games on Saturday nights. Any reason for this?

Jeff Gordon: Excellent question. Perhaps they don't have HD technology for all their games. But I don't know.

tigerwill1: Would you speculate about the type A/B players the Cards may obtain in the event Matt Holliday and others leave? Thank you.

Jeff Gordon: Mozeliak could shoot for a front-line hurler to replace Pineiro. That has been Mo's hint. But after Matt and Bay, there are no comparable OFs to stick in the lineup.

Scott: Gordo,

I originally was thinking the Rams should go after a big-time receiver in the 2nd or 3rd round of next years draft. However, given the performance of Brandon Gibson yesterday, and the talent of Laurent Robinson, Donnie Avery and Keenan Burton, I know longer look at this position as an obvious area of weakness. How about you?

Jeff Gordon: Gibson is intriguing, yes. So was Robinson. Avery showed something. So, sure, perhaps WR is less pressing of a long-term need. Brooks Foster could be an interesting developmental guy next year.

stl4evr: Any news about Sheldon Richardson. Is he still committed to MU and how has he been playing at the JUCO level?

Jeff Gordon: I saw earlier this year that he was playing, which will cost him a year of D-I eligibility. As for the grades, we'll see.

Jayman: Whats the latest on Meteo..I know they pulled his contract back because of the injury. But I heard they may give a smaller contract? Have you heard anything?

Jeff Gordon: Not a word on him. I'd be surprised if they went back to that well.

stl4evr: Whats wrong with the BLUES!!!!!??!!!

Jeff Gordon: Can't score -- which is weird. A lot of money on third- and fourth-line guys.

LouisXIV: Biggest disappointment of the year- Randy McMichael. I am assuming he will be gone and free up some salary for the Rams next season, but in the meanwhile can the current staff start counting on Fells/Bajema to carry the load. Please?

Jeff Gordon: The Rams lean on their TEs heavily in this scheme. So for now, the team may try to get more out of him. Drafting a TE next year would be wise.

LouisXIV: Rams 2-minute drill looked bad. I remember the days when we lauded Bulger�s clock management. Like so many other aspects of his game it has declined, but I think it is directly a product of what he is surrounded by. He is a mediocre quarterback who is made good with the right ensemble resulting in SuperBowl and ProBowl appearances. In that regard he is like most quarterbacks in the NFL who succeed at some level. The quarterback who elevates those around him occurs a lot less often than we think, but we expect it all the time. He is not that calibre of player. So...either the Rams try to find that quarterback or the other pieces fall into place and his play is elevated again.
What's your best assessment?

Jeff Gordon: The surrounding cast helped Bulger for sure. But then again, he can make throws that a lot of guys (like Boller, for instance, or Trent Green) just cannot make.

He isn't as good as he showed when the Rams were fully loaded and he isn't as bad as he looks with the recent group. Like most QBs, he lacks transcendent talent. There are only a few out there.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, has Brandon Gibson earned a starting spot because of the way he played sunday?

Jeff Gordon: Oh yeah . . .

nevadariverranch: Jeff, if the Rams keep playing the way they played the Saints I think they could win 3 more games. What do you think?

Jeff Gordon: I'd say two wins for sure are there. If they run into a team having a bad day, anything is possible now.

stl4evr: Do you think that the Rams should use a high draft pick on a QB or improve other areas first? I think that Bulger is decent enough to keep around until his contract his up. More support and help for Jackson should come first. Every good team has a stable of running backs. We have a Clydesdale and two donkeys.Also, who do you think the rams will draft given they have every choice available?

Jeff Gordon: Knowing Spags, he would probably pick a game-changing defensive player first, then go from there. But, again, they need almost anything.

As we've noted before, the top QBs aren't all that compelling right now.

jboloc: Gordo, the progrssion the Rams are making has to be inspiring. Take away their reord and they are playing with 500% more heart than last year which is part of a winning organization. Your thoughts on 2008-2009 heart vs. 2009-2010 heart?

Jeff Gordon: That Colts game was a mess. Since then, the team has come around.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, I think that Bulger has bought himself about 5 more games to prove he should be around next year. If he does well, then he gets the entire 7 games, if not, Keith Null needs to start the last 2 reguardless to see how well he plays. Your thoughts.

Jeff Gordon: Marc could be an OK stopgap IF he plays like that again and again. He still has a lot to prove to this team.

nickn: With the Cy Young award on the line, can you predict how you think the top three will finish in the voting?

How much of a factor do you think that we have two of the three candidates on the Redbirds in possibly negating each other in favor of Lincecum with enough voters to have him win it?

Lastly, do you think that although ballots are supposed to be based soley on regular season play, that Carpenters's bad game #1 and Wainwright stellar effort in game #2 of NLDS could be another factor going against Carp?

Jeff Gordon: I'd go Wainwright, Lincecum and Carpenter, but I've see so many opinions expressed by voters. I couldn't guess what the trends are with them, if there are any.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, if you could make the Rams 1st pick in the draft next year, what position above all else would you pick?

Jeff Gordon: I don't see one need greater than another right now. I just don't. Big DT, pass-rushing DE, OLB, big CB . . . then QB, pass catching TE, big WR, pass-catching RB. There are still so many holes.

Nick: Jeff,

Two questions about the final drive...

1) The Rams essentially were given a free time out while the officials were reviewing the Gibson fourth down catch. While the play was being reviewed, were the offensive coaches huddled up with Bulger and other players talking about the next series of plays in this drive? The broadcast feed didn't really give us a great angle, but that would seem like a situation you'd want to take advantage of.

2) After the officials confirmed Gibson's catch, the Rams gained a first down on a pass to McMichael. To me, that seemed like a logical time to spike the ball and regroup, but the Rams didn't. Was that Bulger's call to keep moving, or was the drive scripted to get another play off at that point?

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, a spike after the one catch would have been a good idea. That's got to be the QB, I think. Can't look around for help on that.

Perhaps the review time could have been used to talk about the play after the next play. But the coordinator is thinking ahead and making the call on the fly.

cardinals_99: Gordo- Kudo's to the Rams for finally playing a game with pride and passion!
It seemed to me that down the stretch, Bulger choked on a few really simple short pass plays that could have kept drives going. (He under threw 2 or 3 and over threw one anyway)!
He didn't "look off" primary receivers that were covered and find the "open" man or safety outlet either, (Karney) on the 5 yard line in the 4th quarter. Isn't this what top quality, Pro-Bowl QB's are suppose to be able to do? Your thoughts?

Jeff Gordon: Again, in the two minute drill, it's nice to have many WR targets and pass-catching RB options. This offense was so timid all year, that last drive was shock.

nickn: If the Cardinals were not successful in retaining MH would you recommend that they consider Vernon Wells. Before you vomit, hear me out.

1. Toronto blew it with not trading Roy (the other) Halliday last season and the front office is feeling the heat.
2) The final $8.5 installment of his signing bonus is due this March, so that will be borne by them assuming acquisition in spring.
3) Base salary is $12.5m in 2010. Even though there a 4 more years at considerably more, maybe that the Cards can get the Blue Jays to eat the excess over $12.5m per year a la Julio Lugo with the Red Sox.
4) Vernon will only be turning 31 next month and as such till in his prime for the duration of the contract. He played a full season injury free last year batting .266 with 15 HR's. He is also a 3-time gold glove award winner.

If it came down to purely a financial commitment of something like $60 million over the next 5 years with little else needed in terms of players going their way, would you explore this player as a back up plan to Matt? If not, why not and who would you pursue?

Jeff Gordon: Wells, at a discount, if he is healthy, would be palatable. Other teams are passing on the guy, though, so I wonder if more than money is involved in that.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, do you think that Flether will make it back from that knee injury, or is it career ending?

Jeff Gordon: It is career threatening. He could miss part of next year, too, which is scary.

Ozy Rams Fan: HI Gordo,

For awhile you have been saying Bulger need to improve his game, if he has any chance of staying with the team next season. Was his game yesterday, good enough ? and if he continues to have these quality games, do the Rams consider bring him back ? What's does Bulger have to do, to make the Rams want to keep ?

Have a big game vs Cards Bulger !


OZY

Jeff Gordon: If he played at this level the rest of the year, he would be better than other stopgap options. That is where is at right now. That was a big step forward for him.

It also helped him with other teams watching his play.

Murat from Pittsburgh: Jeff;

Please help me understand why McMichael is still on this team and Klopfenstein isn't.

Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: The Klop is much worse than McMichael, if you can believe it.

Lawarence Marmie: Is Joe Klopfenstein being blacklisted throughtout the league? If so, how high up does this conspiracy go?

Jeff Gordon: Good one!

Mgibby14: Any chance of the Rams going back to their gold pants? The uniforms were such a classy looking upgrade the year after we won the SB, these white ones just look cheep and don't go with the home blues (or even the white road unis for that matter).

Jeff Gordon: Let's see what the next owner likes or doesn't like.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, with the recievers that are injured and what we have playing now, If the Rams could add a legit #1 next year, do you think they would be a team strenght?

Jeff Gordon: Let's see what Avery and Gibson do the rest of this year. Maybe they can be the starters next year. There is some talent there.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, why not cut McMichael and have 5 recievers dressed when healthy from now on? Too much cap ramifications?

Jeff Gordon: No cap issues there. The Rams could need another TE for this offense, which is the issue. Next year, perhaps the offense could be tweaked to include more WRs.

Lawarence Marmie: From what I hear, The Yankees will not be the biggest spenders when free agency rolls around this year. If that is true, will the rest of the league stop whining like little girls and blaming the Yankees for their own poor evaluation of talent and unwillingness to spend money on payroll because it cuts into their profit margin? Or will it just always be fashionable to blame the "Evil Empire" for thier own inability to field a competitive team?

Jeff Gordon: If the Yankees slash payroll to $150 million, I'll buy your point. But if NY is well over $200 million again, they will have no excuse not to win it all. They could field two contenders with that.

nickn: Piniero will a B type agent and worth one sandwich 1st round draft pick even if he declines. If offerred and he also accepts, I think that would be fine as it would only only 1 year even if he won his case? Do you also agree he should be offerred arbitration, and if so, do you think the Cardinals will go ahead and offer it to him?

Jeff Gordon: I'd offer him arbitration and take him back on a short-term deal. He wants many years, so I think he would still test the market. I'd offer him and live with him if he took it.

ramfaninCT: Gordo,

As a Ram fan I'm hoping the salary cap stays in place which I believe keeps a level playing field. I don't want the NFL turning into MLB where the big market teams have the most money to spend and thus get the best players. Is my hope and assumption accurate should an uncapped NFL come to fruition?

Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: I'd be shocked if the NFL blew up the cap system for good. It makes it too easy to make money.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, it looks like that Pat Shurmer finally got a clue to throw downfield. What finally gave him the idea?

Jeff Gordon: I'm sure he is doing what he thinks is best with what he has. This matchup dictated a more aggressive game. I'm glad he went for it.

Murat from Pittsburgh: Jeff;

If the Rams were to target 2 FAs for next season, who should they be in your opinion?

Thanks.

Jeff Gordon: Way too soon for that. If we go uncapped, how many free agents will even come free? I've listed the needs. They need help almost everywhere but safety, if they keep Atogwe.

Todd W.: I like this Gibson kid no?

Jeff Gordon: He has a chance, yes.

Lawarence Marmie: I just listened to Howard Eskin's radio show and they had Freddie Mitchell on as a guest. It was hillarious- he blamed Donavan McNabb for everything- including a conspiracy to keep him out of the league. He also says he's working on a reality show about him making a Country/Western album. Do you think the Rams WR situation ever gets desperate enough to take a shot at bringing in Fred Ex? I mean, in terms of converting 4th and 26's- there hasn't been anyone more capable in the history of the NFL. And also, will you buy his album?

Jeff Gordon: Wow, Fred-Ex -- one of the great flakes ever. No team will ever be that desperate.

Roanoke: Bulger had a good game, for Bulger. And yes, there were many drops that hurt his cause. But in the end, he showed that he doesn't have enough to pull out a win. That was not a great 2-minute performance. Of course, I really wasn't expecting much. He had an opportunity on that pass to Avery, but couldn't make the good throw even though he had good protection. Your top 10 QBs make those throws, and overcome the dropped passes (e.g., Amendola's). For the remainder of '09, I hope Bulger realizes his O-line has improved significantly and that he really does have time to survey the field and not rush his throws.

Jeff Gordon: Yeah, a Top 10 QB might hit that pass. But his two TDs were nice throws. He outplayed Brees, who has fabulous targets. So that's something.

Decker56: Gordo it seems that next year when all the receivers come back from injuries that the Rams may not need to spend a 1st or 2nd round pick in the draft. Do you think they may be more inclined to go QB or defensive tackle in the 1st round?
Also what do you think about the huge kid playing defensive line at Alabama. I can not remember his name but if he can control his weight (at 360 lbs) what a run stopper he could be.

Jeff Gordon: DT yes, QB probably not.

FloTrain: Luddy's up for arbitration again, I believe?.. You sign him, CF and RF are set. Holliday walks, whose in LF? My feeling is Bay won't come here... Heard speculation DeRosa will get multi-year/millions to go back to the Cubs. Did he love it here that much to take whatever Cards offer over that? I like that Mo went for it last year, but if they both go, and on top of that losing Perez, Todd, Wallace. Eeeek!
So, your Mo. What do you do? Trades/signings/call-ups, etc all in play.

Jeff Gordon: Not much to trade, so they'll have to get a Nady type in free agency and hope for the best if all else fails. Or maybe there is a way they can take on a salary guy from another team, giving up little. That can be a fallback.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, a non rams question. What in the world was Bill Belachoke doing calling a 4th and 2 pass on their own 30 yd line when clearly they should have punted? Giving Peyton only 30 yards to a win, you can't make it up.

Jeff Gordon: We covered that in Tipsheet today. Odd choice, for sure.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, I know we got a bad record but shouldn't Steven Jackson be considered for MVP because without him the Rams would have nothing.

Jeff Gordon: And they have one win with him, so no.

Lawarence Marmie: Has it been announced when Mark McGuire is going to come in to give his first remarks to the St. Louis media? Are you expecting more nonsense about not living in the past or do you think he'll go the more convential "I don't understand English" Sammy Sosa route?

Jeff Gordon: If he does that, the issue will never go away. That would be too bad for him.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, a cba question, Do you think there will be a rookie wage scale when the cba is approved?

Jeff Gordon: Let's hope so. The current system is a joke.

Decker56: Gordo the huge defensive lineman Terrence Cody (360 lbs) could be a great run stopper for the Rams. do you think he woill be on the board when the Rams pick and do you think they may have interest in him?

Jeff Gordon: Let's see if he is a NFL-caliber athlete and not a defensive version of Andre Smith.

Lawarence Marmie: So, I take it from your comments that you're at least somewhat happy for guys like Matsui and Damon for winning the World Series, but not A-Rod- what's up with that? The guy was a consumate team player and came up huge for the pinstrips in many huge situations. How can you not cheer for a guy like that?

Jeff Gordon: Well, he showed up orange in that Gammons interview. That was offputting.

Ozy Rams Fan: Gordo,

Is there something in the west coast system, that say you can not line up in a spread formation once in a while. Throughing a wrinkle at defences, like that would help. To often the formation used are to predicable. Part of the problem of only suiting up 4 WRs, is you take away any chance of showing something different at defences, even if that 5th WR only plays a few downs. Keeping defences off balance is key !


OZY

Jeff Gordon: Plenty of West Coast-type systems feature some explosive elements. As this team adds better personnel, it must get more aggressive.

nevadariverranch: Jeff, do you think that the owners might actually want to get rid of the cap? If there is no celing, there also is no floor. A cheap owner ie: the bucs could field a team on the cheap and pocket millions.

Jeff Gordon: That wouldn't work. A team that gets destroyed year after year would become a bad business.

eastwoodgerry: Jeff,
Everyone wants to get on the bash-Bulger-bandwagon but the receivers dropped a lot of catchable, big play killing balls yesterday. The big ones being Amendola and Fells on the two point attempt. Both of those passes were right there and just flat out dropped. If they had completed the two point conversion they would have had the option to kick a field goal for the tie at the end.

Jeff Gordon: This is true, which is why the negativity hasn't been as bad this week.

JRToday: It seems as though Steven Jackson rips off a few first downs, gets the team down to the 35 or so, then he pulls himself off the field ofr a breather or something, and the offense then usually sputters. Do you think this is common among premier running backs in the NFL? Can something be done to help Jackson actually stay on the field all the way through to the end zone, maybe once in a while?

Jeff Gordon: The only RB with more carries this year than Jackson is Benson -- and he isn't used in Cincy's passing game. He has just 10 catches all year. Steven has 33 grabs.

In short, nobody carries a bigger load than Jackson. So he needs a breather from time to time.

Todd W.: If we have Robinson, Gibson, Avery, Burton next year, who would be the slot? Gibson and Robinson look like solid possession guys.

Jeff Gordon: Avery is supposed to be a lead guy, but maybe he moves to the slot.

Steve A: I've been reading some other NFL teams have been declaring position players as their "emergency QB" I haven't seen the NFL cracking down on this at all either. It's apparent Spags has bigger priorities than WR for his roster spots and Null isn't playing any meaningful minutes any time soon.

Why not stick a 5th WR there for situations like yesterday? Man it would have been nice to bring in Martin in the 4th qurter.

Jeff Gordon: You have have three QBs and five WRs with no trouble. Just take out one of the D-linemen who hardly play.

Wild Bill: I see Murray ultimately paying the price if things don't turn around in the next month or two.
Do you think Al MacInnis would be interested in being the next head coach?
If not him then who?

Jeff Gordon: Al might be an emergency fill-in, but I'm a believer in experience. Which coach that would be, I have no idea. I still think Andy can get this done.

Tackleberry: Gordo,

Doesn't the lack of "tradable" players make it of upmost importance that the Cards assemble their in free agency core while they can do it with their checkbook?

Jeff Gordon: Not if it means overspending in terms of dollars and years, thus handcuffing the team for years. This team can't afford to make a big mistake. There will be a LOT of overpaying at the "top" of this FA class.

davulture24: I was at the game yesterday watching QB warmups. We all were noticing that Bulger's passes don't have the same tight spiral as the used to. When watching side by side comparisons with the other QBs, he seemed to show a real lag behind the other two. It it just me or is Bulger's "tight spiral" not so tight anymore? Injury, lack of confidence, or just simply not concerned anymore? Your thoughts...

Jeff Gordon: The spirals looked fine on the TD passes, which were very well thrown.

Lawarence Marmie: I don't know how many Eagles games you get to see- but have you seen the shape of Andy Reid lately? Has an NFL coach ever collapsed and died on the sidelines before or will he be the first one?

Jeff Gordon: He is a decathlete compared to Mangino at Kansas at the college level.

eternalramnation: Gordo,

Any news on Burton's injury? It didn't look too good yesterday whent he broke out the inflatable cast.

As for next Sunday do you see the team having a let down? They played as close to a perfect game as you can against the Saints and still came up short.

Jeff Gordon: That news will come out soon, but it looked bad for Keenan. A serious patella injury.

The next opponent is like this one, so that challenge should get their attention.

Mgibby14: Any chance of the cards jumping into the Halladay sweepstakes? How scary would that rotation be: Carpenter, Wainwright, Halladay... Lohse as #4 and Garcia/Smoltz as #5. Having 3 stud starters sure worked for Atlanta for a few years. Would also give the kids at 3B and LF some time to get acclimated without the pressure of having to produce right away. Certainly seems like a better way to spend the $. What do you think?

Jeff Gordon: Not enough to trade, especially with Holliday heading out the door. Toronto would start its demands with Rasmus and
Garcia and go from there.

Cards4520: Percentage wise, what are the chances of DeRosa comming back? If not here...what are the chances he goes back to the north side of Chicago?

Thanks,

Kevin.

Jeff Gordon: The Phillies are ready to buck up, too. And the Nationals could throw stupid money at him. With each passing day, it seems less likely he will return.

gateway-broker: Gordo, did you also think the pass in the closing seconds of the game that was 3 yards underthrown and hit the Saints defender in the back of the helmet was very well thrown?

Jeff Gordon: That was about five yards short, unlike the big strikes Amendola and Fells dropped and the two-pointer that Fells didn't catch.

That appears to be it for today. We'll see you next time!