CIRAIDER: Gordo, I do not understand why a package that includes Ankiel cannot answer our issues in the pen for a lefty reliever or possibly a starting pitcher. You mean to tell me there is not a team out there who would be interested in Ankiel, Brian Anderson, Boggs and another prospect?

I have heard the excuse that due to Ankiel's pending free agency, we couldn't get value in return. I dont buy it and if we are not going to sign him , trade him, lets get something in return.I am tired of excuses.

Sign Felipe and dump Kennedy. He is a cancer and needs to be removed !

Jeff Gordon: But would Lopez hit like he did for the Cards or do nothing, as he did for Washington earlier in the year? Kennedy's money will count against the payroll one way or another, so the Cards ought to get something out of him.

I agree that Ankiel might fetch a hurler of some description. And somebody has to go from the OF, given the surplus. With all those lefty hitters, that Rick's exit would make sense.

Gary M.: Hey Gordo!

So, I was wondering about the Cardinals 2B options. I read the club has interest in retaining Adam Kennedy. Why keep a guy that wants out? Even if he is cheaper, we don't need a malcontent like that in the clubhouse. Obviously O-Dawg (Orlando Hudson) is out there, though I have a suspicion the Cardinals aren't going to risk dollars like that. Two words for ya, Alex Cora. I've been beating his drum since the 04-05 offseason. Cora's above all an intelligent player, still very capable and surehanded. Alex possesses an exceptional arm, also can be counted on in the clutch. TLR loves a guy like Cora, he plays all over the infield. You think Cora is a possibility?

Jeff Gordon: Kennedy doesn't mind playing here if he's a regular. He just bristled at being the third option last year, after Lopez came. I don't see Cora upgraded the Cards over what they had last year.

proteusjohn: Kind of frustrating that Nebraska, South Carolina, and Clemson all get better bowls with more Payout than Mizzou, but it hasbeen a frustrating year of sports anyway.

Jeff Gordon: At least Missouri will continue to work its Texas recruiting and its fans will have a good time. It's not all bad.

Bob P: What types of pitchers do you see the Cardinals signing over the Winter Meetings?(Relievers, Closer, or Starters) And any specific names? Where do you think the Cards will say the max is for payroll? Also any second baseman or pitchers we might pursuit in the Rule 5 draft?

Jeff Gordon: I look for a $100 million payroll, despite the ongoing concerns about the economy. It's a buyers market now and the Cards could build a nice team with that level of salary. A lefty like Randy Wolf would balance the rotation and add needed depth. Wood or Fuentes at the right price could be possible. One of the Tampa Bay pitchers could make sense. Many options . . .

CardsfanInIL: Brad Penny or Oliver Perez?

Jeff Gordon: I'd take Perez, but I imagine his price will be high -- even in the buyer's market. Penney would be worth a look, but only with a contract that protected the Cards against his chronic shoulder issues.