adam: Jeff, thanks as always. Do we know where Ludwick rated in the MVP voting? He surely had to receive some serious consideration...

Jeff Gordon: If I read that right, he was 16th.

GEO123: What's your gut feeling on what the Cardinals will do this offseason? Who will they sign and or trade for?

Jeff Gordon: It's wide open, but guys are starting to come off the board.

sltest: Is this the best jackman has played since his calder season? I dont recall him being as active in the offensive zone and his defense appears better this season.

Also, would you rate Polack the second best Blues D man currenlty, or where?

Jeff Gordon: Polak is doing great, maybe in the top three right now. Surprisingly good with the puck. And that has been Jackman's shortcoming. He's better this year, but he has had trouble with the puck.

the gazelle: Thanks for taking all my questions. It's great to have a sports insider's viewpoint on things.

Isn't SLU loaded with junior and senior leadership this year? How is it that they didn't dominate a Division II opponent? Should Biondi be showing Majerus the door and making the way for a proven college coach like Quin Snyder?

Jeff Gordon: Rick is a proven coach and he has things headed the right way. But seven freshmen are tough to integrate. Beyond Tommie and Kevin, there isn't much experience on that group. When Kevin doesn't play, his absence is really felt.

sltest: Saw your comments on Albert being in the MYVP hunt all the time. If my memory is correct, Stan Musial was the same in his era. I think I saw a note from Bill James or someone that incdicated Musial had the most votes ever for MVP becasue he was always in the hunt, if he didnt win it he got second or third every year. Maybe the numbers are differnt now as their are more voters, but he may still ahve the lead. It may be worth looking into and making a comparions versus Pujols.

Jeff Gordon: I believe Stan was in the Top Ten 14 times, which is astounding. Albert is one of the rare players capable of matching that. His work ethic and intensity is superhuman.

That's it for today -- thanks for all the questions and comments!