Fresno Ram Fan: Hey Gordo,
Do you know if and how much Saunders uses the no huddle? and wz curious to see if you know how are offensive line coach did during the OTA's? Once again, thanx for keeping us Ram fans in CA updated. |
Jeff Gordon: Saunders did get to use some quicker tempo stuff with the Redskins later last season, which seemed to help their stagnant offense. Jason Campbell did pretty well with it. Of course, Saunders was really limited by Joe Gibbs' preference for a power-running offense. With veteran QBs here, I'm sure he will be feel free to use some of that keep defenses off-balance. Will he use a lot of it? We'll have to wait for the regular season.
Offensive line Steve Loney made a good impression on the returning linemen. It looks like the coaching change will do the unit some good. |
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| Lynn: Thanks for taking my question. Has something happened to Chris Carpenter in the last 5 days that the Cardinals are not telling us? They just put Carp on the 60 day DL on Saturday with Encarnacion and Kinney. There will be no place for him to do a rehab assignment 60 days from now. It would appear that they have given up on him! Do you think we will ever see him again? |
| Jeff Gordon: Yes, you will see him again. In fact, the diagnosis on his arm was encouraging. His return will just take more time. The 60-day designation was just a bookkeeping deal, since the Cards have filled up their allotment of 15-day DL slots. He will rehab when his elbow is ready to be tested. Don't rule out his return at the end of this season. |
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G Money: The number one draft choice fills a huge need for the Blues. Puck moving defensemen are hard to obtain. This young man and Johnson give the Blues a potentially bright future. He reminds me of Pronger in terms of size. I know he is not known for being a tough guy. Is he defensively sound at this time? What are the chances we see him this year or next? Same question with the goalie in the third round.
Prospects in hockey take about the same time as young baseball prospects?? |
Jeff Gordon: Hockey players take a while. Pietrangelo suffered a spleen injury at the end of last season and he just recently resumed working out. He could make the team this camp, but it's more likely he will need additional developmental time. The Blues saw many veteran D break down last season under fore-checking and they can't let that happen to this kid.
Allen will be at least a few years away in goal. The developmental time for hockey players is generally much longer than for basketball players. Only a tiny percentage of players actually reach the NHL the first year after they are drafted. |
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G Money: Mulder - got hit hard last time out. What was his velocity like?
Carpenter- back by August?
Wainwright - July 17 or mid August ?
Todd - this year or next year? |
Jeff Gordon: Mulder's velocity dipped some in his last start, so his final "tune-up" at Memphis could decide whether he starts as scheduled in Kansas City.
Carpenter is a tough call, since the inflammation set him back. If he pushes too hard, he could end up suffering consequences as Kinney did.
Wainwright is anybody's guess, given the nature of that injury. I'd guess later than sooner, because the team does NOT want him aggravating that injury.
Jesse Todd should be on the front burner by next spring. In nine games at Springfield, he is 2-2 with a 1.79 ERA. But as Garcia is finding out, the jump to Class AAA Memphis is a challenge. Let's see how that goes. |
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| G Money: Boggs has a very good sinking fastball . Seems like a better late inning relief guy to me. Closer in college. Lacks a real good number 2 and 3 pitch. Will we see he and McClellan switch roles next year? |
| Jeff Gordon: That could happen. Duncan loves McClellan's starter potential. Could be Wainwright, part II. Boggs has the makeup to work out of the pen, which is critical. As a long guy, he could offer better long-range potential than Brad Thompson. |
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Jonny Faux: Hey Gordo,
I personally was very happy with the Blues draft overall. There were some popular and unpopular picks according to some fans on the STL Boards but I have a lot of trust in Jarmo and his ability to draft. So onto my question, seeing this new influx of talent there were rumors everywhere about a possible "big splash" the Blues might make. Have you heard anything about any possible deals that were in the works? I pray to God we make a move for Jason Spezza, as you put it first line centers are hard to come by. Thanks for the time. |
Jeff Gordon: Spezza's name comes up because he has a huge contract and talent-laden teams like Ottawa struggle to stay under the cap and/or under budget. He would be exactly what this team needs to build around. Could Berglund be that type of player? Oshie? We'll see, but we know what Spezza can do.
Right now the Blues do have to stay within a budget. Their time to make a play could come later, after Tkachuk and McKee move along. In the meantime, they need to get more from Kariya and McDonald, two guys with the wheels and skill to give more than we saw last season. |
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| roger from lake tahoe: i am amazed that the cards without pujols can take it to the red sox like this. even larue is hitting! my question: if mulder can't find success as a starter, would he be considered as a lefty specialist or long man? i know the mindset and warmup are very different but do you think he could make the adjustment? thanks gordo |
| Jeff Gordon: Never say never, since other hurlers have found relief work better for their repaired shoulders. And the Cards could use another bullpen lefty. But that would a massive adjustment by Mulder. |
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Dave Cobler: Hey Gordo;
As much as I'd love to see Pujols back in the 3 hole and playing first base, I am concerned about reports that he may be back much earlier than was originally projected with the calf injury.
Do you think he is pushing the tough grit he has in his mental makeup to get back on the ball diamond before he really should?
Thank you Jeff! |
| Jeff Gordon: That is always a danger with Albert. As we saw with this injury, there is risk for aggravation. Pujols hurt it, then hurt is worse. The team must really be careful, since Pujols will always say he is good to go. |
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Chris G: Jeff -
Thanks for considering my question(s). I wanted to know if the Blues had mentioned specifically if their intention was to have Alex Pietrangelo play in the NHL, AHL, or return him to Juniors next year? Has anyone said yet if any of the newly drafted players are expected to at least challenge for a roster spot either in St. Louis or Peoria? I also know Phil McRae said he considered himself to be returning to juniors, but what do the powers that be in the Blues organization think? Finally, has there been any word on any possible UFA / RFA players who the Blues might be targeting as being a good value in their expected salary slots? Thanks. |
Jeff Gordon: McRae needs to go back, since he has a LONG way to go. The Blues need to keep him at a level where his offense can develop. Alex will bid for a job in training camp, but scouts believe he was just scratching the surface of his potential last season. The Blues have a pretty good returning group, especially with Polak and Wagner needing to play. So why not let him dominate junior hockey for another year, then jump up to play with the men?
With the addition of Mason, the team doesn't have a big hole. I don't see a big move in free agency, since Boyes, Tkachuk, Kariya, McDonald, Stempniak, Backes, Perron, McClement, Hinote, King and Janssen return and both Oshie and Berglund are expected to compete for jobs somewhere in the top three lines.
On D, Johsnon, Brewer, Jackman, McKee are back with Woywitka, Wagner and Polak next in line. Perhaps another veteran is needed there, just in case. |
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Jonny Faux: Hey Gordo,
I was just wondering why Joe Mather was sent down and we has not been recalled yet? |
| Jeff Gordon: Mather was sent down to add another pitcher. Then he hurt his back, so the hot-hitting Stavinoha got the call-up when Izturis went down. This give the Cards another chance to check out (and showcase)still another outfield prospect. |
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Tackleberry: Three things we learned this weekend with the Cardinals:
1. This team's resiliancy against the best team in the AL, on the road nonetheless, showed this team is worth the investment should there be a "need" at the deadline. This is not the year to stand pat and wait for DL to give back.
2. Izzy is probably a "situational" pitcher from here on out. While he achieved his goal Sunday, his effiency was noticably lacking. You can shovel your driveway after a snow storm with a spoon and get the job done, but a snowblower is quicker. Izzy is no longer a snowblower.
3. Finally, "crack" may or may not be being smoked in the front office if they allow Mulder to make a major league start this week. The very idea makes me question if mangement/ownership has ever heard of the economic term "sunk cost." (see Adam Kennedy for clear definition). |
Jeff Gordon: You say that about Kennedy, but his average is back up to .269. He is a fine defensive player. Despite playing part-time -- a role he isn't comfortable with -- he has rebounded nicely from the '07 mess. As for Mulder, it's time to see what he can do. Perhaps the return to the big leagues will be the motivation he needs to finally finish his rehab. If not, well, it was worth a try -- since the team will have other options moving forward. I don't see the harm. Duncan made some headway with him on the side, so he wants a shot at this.
I believe this team's success this summer tells you to stay the course. Keep playing the kids to see what they have. For instance, playing Ryan every day in place of Izturis is a real benefit. Could Ryan be the shortstop of the future? The second baseman of the future? A utility guy?
Mozeliak is defining all this assets. At the right time, perhaps he can package the assets in a deal. But he should only do that after finding out what he really has and what he really needs.
He won't be able to outspend his mistakes, as Boston did by overspending on Edgar Renteria, dealing Hanley Ramirez, eating some Renteria salary to trade him away and ending up with Julio Lugo at short. So he needs to move deliberately, so the team doesn't end up trading away another Danny Haren for a high-priced player who might or might not pay off over the long haul.
Rasmus is hitting in Memphis now. So is Hoffpauir. Jaime Garcia is a top pitching prospect at Memphis. You've seen nine other players make their debut. So far, sticking with internal decisions are worked very well. |
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| Tackleberry: I guess Steven Jackson didn't consult the St. Louis Blues when composing his message to fans in an attempt to get them back in the stands for the upcoming season? Fact is, if the perennial playoff-present Blues "courted" fans prior to the 2007/08 season, the Rams should be begging this summer. Whether Jackson cares to believe it or not, the issue at hand goes back to a time when he was still suiting up for Pop Warner games. The 3-13 record in 2007 is just the most glaring of the errors that the ownership & organization has made since settling into the Dome. Maybe #39 should concentrate less on running his mouth and more on running the ball. If Jackson wants to start the season off on a positive note, try not to single-handedly cough up the lead in the season-opener this year. Oh, and while the wide receivers are working those blocking drills, feel free to hop in and grab a few reps. |
| Jeff Gordon: Snap! |
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Matt: Hey Gordo! So what did you think of the Blues draft this year? On a scale of 1-10? I know it takes a couple of years to evaluate a draft but what are your initial thoughts on their picks this year? And what can we expect from the players drafted? Any of them other than Pietrangelo expected to make it to the NHL soon? Thanks!
Also, what do you think of the rumors flying around that the Blues are trying to make a big move? Have you heard any truth to them? It would be cool to see them make a big move and increase the excitement for next season like the Kariya signing did. |
Jeff Gordon: Trouble is, the Kariya move didn't really pay off on the ice and the Blues are still paying him and Jay McKee big dollars. Unless John Davidson is throwing up a smokescreen, I don't see this team being a big player for one of the young veterans potentially available. And he doesn't have much to trade to get, say, Spezza.
I'd put the draft at a 7. With a top three pick, the Blues would have gotten a better play . . . but such was their fate in the draft lottery. Pietrangelo and Allen were solid "need" picks. McRae was a reach at that point in the draft, so let's see how he progresses. It would be a fabulous story if it pans out. Basil is a man of great character, so I would expect the same of Philip. |
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| virginiatom: It seems the way of Issac Bruce when he was here and Torry Holt to go down immediately after catching the ball to avoid the hit. They are the only receivers in the league I see doing that as a matter of routine. It seems that this lends to the soft reputation that the Rams offense has. How do their team mates feel about this habit and will Saudners demand more after catching the ball? |
| Jeff Gordon: Saunders will stress yardage after catch. He could be heard screaming "don't step out of bounds!" at the kid receivers in drills. But in fairness to Bruce an Holt, Linehan used a horizontal passing game that didn't put his receivers in great position to break plays. Remember how Martz's scheme allowed Warner and Bulger to get receivers as they popped through defensive seams, heading upfield. That is a big part of this. As for the receivers being "soft," the productive of those two receivers speaks for itself. Both have played hurt. Both have made big plays in big games. And both were unimpressive by an '07 offense that got more and more conservative as the injuries mounted. |
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Buzz: Gordo,
I'm concerned about the Blues drafting of Philip McRae, especially after I found out that his dad is a scout for the team. It's something that smells even if it isn't rotten. You reprinted a scouting report that had nothing good to say about him. I believe you said that the team passed on more skilled players to take him. Can this pick be justified? If McRae reaches his potential, how good would he be? How can we grow with the Blues if they picked the runt of the litter? Thanks. |
Jeff Gordon: Since that negative scouting report was posted, McRae elevated his play (and his draft stock) later in the season. He offers an unusual combination of size and skill. He may have lasted to the third round because of that. But he does have a ways to go yet. Let's see if he takes the next developmental step and puts up big offensive numbers.
This will be great PR if it works. But he is just so-so, then the nepotism factor will make his job that much more difficult. Just ask Chris Duncan how that works. |
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| Tim: Jeff, do you see the blues healthy scratching fourth line players D.J. King and Cam Janssen more often this year? Also, do see them carrying both players on the active roster? Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: Yes, I'd see them both on the roster. King is a pure enforcer, which the team needs, and Janssen is an agitator, which the team also needs. With Mayers exiting, there is less congestion among blue-collar wingers. |
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Ryan Judd: Hey Gordo!
I am as amazed as anyone with the great start the Cardinals have been on and they continue to impress me each week. I do see a continuing problem with the bullpen. The Cardinal starters have 15 losses, while the bullpen has 18. Do you think this is a result of being overworked since the starters can't go deep into games (Wainright is the only starter to average more than six innings a start) or do we have deeper issues in the pen other than a reliable lefty? Also I'm curious on your thoughts as to the high pitch counts by the starters without going deep into games since we rank last in the NL in strikeouts and most pitch to contact. How can we get more efficient innings out of the starters? Thanks. |
Jeff Gordon: If you looked at the composite numbers of Wainwright, Lohse, Pineiro, Looper and Wellemeyer, they are pretty good. In Year 2 of his transition from the pen, Looper is starting to work deep into games. Pineiro did a nice job of that Sunday, after struggling earlier on that front. His inability to pitch deeper did strain the pen earlier this year.
Wellemeyer has never pitched this many innings, so he may remain a 5- to 6-inning guy when healthy. Perhaps he, like Looper, will have more staying power in Year 2 of his transition.
Boggs isn't pitching deep into games, which is why the team wants to look at Mulder. (Who also figures to have that issue). So, sure, the relievers are rolling up the mileage.
As for the pen stats, Izzy's earlier struggle poisoned those numbers. So did Villone's recent downturn. It was good to see both guys escape danger Sunday. Earlier, Jimenez and Worrell took beatings for the team. They gave up 11 runs in 12 innings between them.
Perez and McClellan have had some rookie moments, but both players are ahead of schedule.
Going forward, the solution will be to get Wainwright, Mulder and Carpenter healthy. If that doesn't happen, the strain on the pen could continue. |
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ueaces: Hi Gordo,
Thanks as always for doing these chats. Love the work you do.
I'll be quick and to the point. The Cardinals desperately need a quailty left handed reliever more than anything else on this team. Can I safely assume that Mo in all liklihood is shopping for one? |
| Jeff Gordon: That is the team's No. 1 need, obviously. But good ones are hard to find. Internally, their best option would be to try top prospects Jaime Garcia in the pen, but that would compromise his development as a starter. |
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Ryan Judd: Hey Gordo!
What are the national media's thoughts on Albert Pujols? We get to witness one of the all time greats to play the game and a sure fire first ballot hall of famer daily. From a national standpoint there is much made of A-Rod and Manny since they play in bigger markets but Pujols is on pace to statistically blow them out of the water, so is his recognition lessened because of the size of market he plays in or do people see him as one of the best? |
| Jeff Gordon: If he played in New York and Boston, ESPN would have asked reporter Pedro Gomez to move with him. In St. Louis, he is just another good player. |
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| Brett: With the trade deadline coming up fast, what moves do you see the Cards trying to make. Will they get their impact bat or a lefty reliever? I also think we'll need another starting pitcher for the stretch run. Any chance at Erik Bedard? Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: Bedard would be a better option than Sabathia, who figures to break the bank on his next deal. I couldn't see C.C. here for that reason. But trading for starting pitching now, without knowing the real status of all your injured guys, is dangerous. There are only so many guys who will get big, long-term money here. I'd rather see the team extend Lohse than deal three blue-chip prospects for Bedard. |
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Scott Rhein: Hello Jeff and Thank You for taking my questions. I thought Friday was a great day for the Blues. We picked up Chris Mason for nothing and pick Alex Pietrangelo in the draft. I think Pietrangelo will be a great player when he makes it up to the NHL level. My question is what do you think of picks 33 & 34? Did we really get the best pick? Was Philip McRae really the best pick? He was rank #66 by the Hockey News. We could of had at that pick Mathew Calvert, Maxine Sauve or Evgeny Grachev. All who were ranked in the top 30. Grachev was in the top 10. Also, what are your thoughts on Jake Allen at #34? I thought we went way to early on this pick. The next top goalie was pick #66. Allen was ranked #8 in North America. We could have picked Harri Sateri the #2 goalie in Europe. There were also 5 other North American goalies ranked ahead of Allen that were not picked. Could we have waited? Could we have gotten another forward or center and waited for Allen? Also, why did we not pick up Dustin Tokarski? The Hockey News has him as the steal of the draft. He went at #122. I know the draft is a long shot for some of these players. I would hate to see a player drafted because he is the son of a scout or a local vice the best pick.
Thank You
Scott |
Jeff Gordon: Bob McKenzie of TSN didn't have a problem with either of the second-round picks, so that is comforting. McRae helped his stock relatively late. He has size and skill at center, which is rare. He may not have lasted until the third round. As I noted earlier, McRae will face some extra pressure because his father worked for the team. But he does offer an element that is different.
Allen was a nice pick, despite some of the rankings. McKenzie had him as the best goalie left on the board. European goalies are tougher to assess, as the Blues have discovered. Their timetable really varies. The Blues wanted to get somebody in development behind Bishop, who figures to get most of the work at Peoria next season. |
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Chris: Yo Gordo,
Do you think the Blues make the playoffs this year?
Everyone talks about the power play and goal scoring being the biggest need, but I think it was a back-up goaltender. Manny is great, but he can't play 60+ games and be amazing in every one. Mason brings the Blues a solid #2 and will let Manny and his balky knee hold up all year. Waddya think? |
Jeff Gordon: Mason filled their No. 1 need. He is a worker and he has lots of experience. He bled some bad goals last year, but he seems like a good bet to rebound. The Blues don't want to rush Bishop and clearly Schwarz can't be counted on.
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Dave: Jeff
Looks like Pieterangelo could have the highest upside of any defenceman in this past draft (Pronger but not as mean)
Berglund has added 15 pounds of muscle and now looks ready to make an impact.
Does this mean after dealing Mayers that the Blues have now embraced the youth movement fully ? |
Jeff Gordon: Last year the team had trouble getting King and Janssen regular turns. This will alleviate some of that. Mayers was a better all-round player than those kids, of course, but he might have been bumped to the fourth line when all the other guys are healthy.
Berglund is a fascinating guy. McDonald could still be the top center, but Berglund could emerge at No. 2 and let Tkachuk and Oshie both play the wing. |
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Michael Kent: Jeff ...
Though I was applauding the Cards' effort after yesterday's epic extra-innings battle at Fenway Park, it ended with St. Louis in a potentially difficult spot. Once TLR cleared his available position players on the bench and made multiple position switches, what would have happened had one of the remaining players in the game been injured?
God forbid, with Yadier Molina and his tender noggin, I was wondering who might have been summoned to put on the catcher's gear and which of resting starting pitchers on the bench would have had to come play a position? Or, suppose that Miles or Kennedy had been injured?
Your thoughts?
Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: One of the starting pitchers would have moved into the outfield. Of the players left standing, I'm not sure which guy would have been the emergency catcher. All that added to a great spectacle Sunday afternoon. Too bad the Cards lost after doing all that! |
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Scott Rhein: Hello again Jeff. I just read your 2 articles The Right Plan and The Mission. I agree with you on both. Friday was a great day but it did not solve our powerplay or offense. Instead of shifting Polak,Wagner and Woywitka between St.Louis and Peoria. Why don't we give them a shot? What happens if Junland or Pietrangelo get good. Are they stuck in Peoria? It is pretty sad when your best defensemen is your rookie. We have 3 guys that make 4 million each and a least one needs to go! The East coast teams a begging for defensemen. Also, what if after development camp Berglund and Oshie make the team. Who goes then? Our third line need to upgrade. There are a lots of free agents on July first that are an upgrade over Backes, McClement and Stempniak and we would not have to sell the farm to get them. Make a trade with McKee and one third line guy for an upgrade. I think we made progress this weekend and that is great. If we don't improve this team before or after the first of July. We are looking the same as we did last season. When you have to spending 160 dollars so you can watch your home team and they have not improved. They are making the fans make a hard choice.
Thank You
Scott |
Jeff Gordon: I believe the Blues would still love to move McKee and his $4 million salary. That would create flexibility for other moves.
I agree than Polak and Wagner should both play in St. Louis. Polak is a physical stay-at-home option and Wagner can move the puck.
Chemistry was tough to come by last year up front, but what about:
Tkachuk-McDonald-Oshie
Boyes-Berglund-Kariya
Backes-McClement-Stempniak
That is pretty good to start with, no? |
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| Ruben: Thanks for taking my question Jeff. There hasn't been much talk about Holt's attendance or lack of attendance at ota's and workouts. Has he been absent or present and participating the majority of the time? Is he going to be part of the solution to our new receiving corp/offense or part of the problem with this new attitude he shared with us this off season? |
Jeff Gordon: Was Holt sending a message by staying away from the OTAs? Maybe. Or maybe he was just "managing" his chronic knee injury. Torry is known for being upbeat around his teammates, so I would be surprised if he created problems.
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Ryan: Hey Gordo,
I heard you on the radio last week talking about the Mason trade. I was surprised to hear that you sounded a little concerned. I know Mason had an off year last year, but he's still a step up from everyone else we had to back up Manny, and he's proven that he is a capable goalie. My question is: Who do you think the Blues should have gone after? I think Emery might be a better goalie, but as a teammate and a person, he has proven he cannot be counted on. And, though Cujo might have been an upgrade over Hannu, he's older and nearing the end. Are you sold on Mason? Thanks, Gordo, keep up the good work...love the radio show. |
Jeff Gordon: Dwayne Roloson is interesting, but I'm not sure he could have been had for a fourth-rounder. Mason has more mileage left than CuJoe, obviously.
Emery has a high upside, but the Blues didn't want his baggage.
Manny Fernandez also has issues. I do have some concern about Mason's failure last year, but now he is back in the back-up role. Last season he started out No. 1. Maybe the pressure of that role got to him. He did his best work earlier while replacing Tomas Vokoun.
Everything you hear about Chris as a person and teammate is good.
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| donald s box: Hey Jeff iam not picking on Ankiel but why don;t Larussa pinch hit for him some time when he faces left handers.Ankiel and Schumacher are vary pore hitters against lefties. And Barton is a lot better fielder than we give him credit for. |
Jeff Gordon: Barton has a weak arm, so that holds him back. He also lacks power. When you take out Ankiel or Schumaker, your defense gets worse. Now, if Stavinoha hits at this level, that changes everything. Ditto for Mather. A RH-hitting outfielder with power is needed here.
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Curt: Hi Jeff,
I've read a couple of P-D articles the last month that 'mentioned' the Rams wouldn't mind adding a big fullback as a lead blocker during this off-season. Uh, would that be somebody like, oh, MADISON HEDGECOCK?!!!!!
Just who was the bozo that made that decision, anyway? |
Jeff Gordon: In the end, that was Linehan's deal. It was his offense and his team.
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| zimmy: There was some talk of a "big splash" involving the blues during the draft, in the forums. we made some moves but they weren't huge. could you speculate on some of those possible rumors, might something else still come up? |
Jeff Gordon: Guys like Malkin and Spezza were said to up "available," but GMs of those teams denied it. Jokinen was an interesting guy, for sure, and Phoenix stole him. But then again, Berglund could be the same type of player, so let's see.
The Blues might have been able to leverage that No. 4 pick and other picks into something nice, but this franchise needs to shed salary to add salary. That makes it tough to do anything sexy.
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| zimmy: parisi? really? you gotta be pulling my leg. |
| Jeff Gordon: Funny thing, Parisi had been fine in earlier relief outings. And he did a nice job in Memphis after going down there. But that park and that lineup was going to take out one of the relievers. Villone and Izzy dodged the bullets. Parisi did not. |
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zimmy: Granted Mather's debut was less than stellar, and I heard he was a little banged up when he was in memphis. what was the biggest factor in bringing up Stavinoha? his hot bat or Mather's woes?
or are we trying to set a record for rookies debuted in a season? |
| Jeff Gordon: Nick was on fire. Nice has been on fire all season. Many fans were calling for him. Certainly he is worth a look. The Cards are learning about all their assets. |
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| Steve: What will it take to keep the Rams in town next year if they decide to sell? |
| Jeff Gordon: Even with a sale, this team will stay for some time. But over the longer haul, a new state-of-the-art stadium will be needed. Otherwise, the team will hang around on a year-to-year basis, which will be no fun at all. |
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Rob: Whats the status on the Blues gate tax? I know it was an issue a few years back and still is, but will it be taken care of soon? How much does it effect the revenue of the team?
Thanks Gordo for your Blues coverage! |
| Jeff Gordon: I don't think that has been resolved yet. The team could really use the break, especially in this economy. Then again, the city needs the money too . . . |
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| Pat: why mayers??? jensen , king and their names escape me at the moment, but there are 2 others who are the same type player... slow, no skilled enforcers. can't skate, can't shoot, just lumber up the ice looking for a fight that rarely comes. Mayers has speed, some offensive skills and can work the PK. If king and jensen are on the ice at the same time its like the other team is on a 5 on 3 PP. |
Jeff Gordon: Mayers is underappreciated in some circles. He does add speed and he'll score the odd goal on the rush. When he played on one of the top two lines, that was a reach. But when you look at the Note today, Mayers looks more like a fourth-liner in this mix. His exit frees up a spot for a younger player.
For me, a better questions is Mayers vs. Hinote -- another player that apparently was shopped.
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| Adam: Another Rookie called-up in Nick Stavinoh, who do you see being the next one called? |
| Jeff Gordon: I would expect Bryan Anderson to get a look in September. Maybe Garcia to add another arm, depending on the zillion injuries. Hoffpauir, at second base, will merit promotion IF the team unloads a middle infielder or two at some point. |
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| Newyorkjohn: It seems to me that the Cards need to upgrade the offense and the middle infield seems the best place to address this need because it is the place where a change would least affect chemistry and there is little in the minor leagues. Brian Roberts and old pal Edgar Renteria come to mind as 2 upgrades at the end of contracts who may be available. Thoughts? |
| Jeff Gordon: Interesting thing, the middle infield. We'll learn more about Ryan the next two weeks. Maybe Kennedy saves his tenure as well. But a good offensive shortstop (Young? Furcal?) could really change the lineup. |
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Farbod: Hey Jeff
Is there anybody that seems to be having the most difficult time grasping Saunders' playbook and offensive scheme?
How's Bruce looking against Berlin with the 3rd QB battle?
Thanks again for the info man |
| Jeff Gordon: Bruce Gradskowski just watched and did individua; stuff during the last OTA. He has to learn the offense. Can he do it? Or is he a West Coast guy? Brock has an edge with his experience here, but he, too, is starting over in many ways. |
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nextdayair: Gordo,
Thanks for taking my question. I read your article on the Blue's regarding the time is now and appreciate your insight. I noticed you refer to Jarmo K. as a draft "guru". What qualifies him for this? You did not mention the the Tomas Kana bust and you did enlighten regarding all the Russian picks going awry. I do like the A. Pietrangelo pick, and paired with E. Johnson is like you say something along the lines to salivate over. However, you or I could have picked these two since both of these picks were found on everyone's "mock" draft for that year. The genius is in the finding the of jewel's in the later rounds. Who comes to mind? (Note: Although the appearance of a make up call (the drafting of a son of a former Blue), all will be forgiven if Phillip McRae turns out as well as Paul Stasney.) |
Jeff Gordon: Yeah, you hate to miss on second rounds. Euros are tough that way. The Blues feel they know McRae's makeup and everybody expects him to make the NHL. Will he be a No. 3 center? Or is there more there? It's still early in his development.
Overall, Jarmo's record is mixed. There's a lot of good there, but Oshie and Berlund MUST pan out. |
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| darreng: Should the Blues go for any free agent signings this year for added offense or defense? Maybe a veteran to add with all the youth the Blues have. |
| Jeff Gordon: J.D. said he may add another Hinote-type "character" guy to help lead the kids. But wasn't Mayers good in that role? |
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Justin: Percentage wise speaking, what chance do you give it that there is a Cardinals/Cubs playoff series this year?
Cubs are very good, but I would love to see it. |
| Jeff Gordon: The Cubs win the devision, obviously. The Cards will fight for a wild-card spot. Will they make the bracket? The percentages are still pretty small, I think. |
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Kevin: Jeff,
Will the Cards diligently pursue a starter, bat and LH reliever by the trade deadline?
What is the interest in Bedard, Young and Fuentes?
Thanks,
Kevin |
Jeff Gordon: With a zillion surplus/injured starting pitchers, it's tough to make a deal for a big money starter. Again, re-upping Lohse would be a better buy.
Lefty reliever, sure, that would help. Fuentes, when healthy, is a top-notch.
Young is unique, with his ability to drive the ball.
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Dave Duncan: Gordo,
Is Larry Pleau still making personel decisions and in charge of the draft?
I’m confused because:
- Once again, the Blues came up "just short" and lacked the creativity needed to move up in the 1st or 2nd round to get one of the better big centers or goalies prospects and then passed on a plethra of skilled forwards in the 2nd round.
- Were gonna pay $3M for backup goalie, who struggled last season, despite a plethra of cheaper alternatives coming up in UFA and looming contract buyouts. Does Larry really think Mason is “the guy” who can win big playoff games 2-3 years down the road? I know we neeed insurance for Manny but it seemed to be a panick move and once again the Blues fill one need but now create another in the PK and we take a cap hit. This is all consistent with Pleau’s, dare I say, less the creative past we all know of.
- Next, by taking on Mason’s contract we help a division rival lower there cap number which allowed them to resign Ellis…..who likely would of become a UFA. Nashville may not of been able to resign Ellis with the Mason contract on the books and with other UFA they had like Weber etc. I find it hard to believe there was much of a market Mason’s contract out there with all the options teams will have after July 1st. Add in the extra pick we gave up as well and you leave scratching your head.
- With RJ likely not to be resigned and Mayers being traded, to free up money for our overpaid backup goaltender, how is this team going to kill penalities this season. With Andy Murray’s dated and predictable attack that produces insomnia for fans and nets less two goals a game it doesn’t look good. It will be up for AM and the coaching staff to get kids to fill this role, ya know since Ray Bennett failed to adjust our predictable PP scheme in 82 games.
- Now something dear to my heart. Isn’t the nepotism pick to reward a current employee for there support and to create some "local boy" buzz among longtime season ticket holders reserved for the later rounds….like the 7th, not the 2nd round? Don’t we have enough slow skating forward in Peoria? Are we not trying to improve the skill level depth in the organization? Aren’t impact players more likely to be found in the early rounds? I’m sure the folks in Peoria will look forward to seeing Phil McRae’s bobblehead night and eventually his AHL jersey being retired someday.
Sorry to be a negative nancy but this offseasons move smell of seasons/disasters past from a guy I am shocked in still in the organization.
GO BLUES!! |
Jeff Gordon: That's dour assessment. McRae has size and some skill -- and a couple years to pick up his skating. Was he a reach? Maybe, but somebody might have taken him later in the round. A lot of the available skill was pretty small.
The good Mason would help the team. The bad Mason . . . not so much. I'd take him over a guy like Manny Fernandez. Emery might have been interesting, if he got his head together. In two years, perhaps Mason will back up Bishop.
The TSN guys liked Allen there in the second round, so I won't argue. |
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| Bryan: Do you know when the Rams plan to resign SJ? |
Jeff Gordon: Interesting question, with his change of agents and public posturing. I still think it is a big team priority.
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leroy warren: gordo
which of the blues draftees from this weekend will be at the development camp and which ones will not be there? will last years swedish 2nd rounder be there? |
| Jeff Gordon: Pietrangelo will be around, of course. Eller, Berglund, Junland and Cole are some of the others. Perron, Wagner and Polak will be there. But I don't have the whole list. |
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Brian: Is there anyway we can replace the rams with a division I football team. I love Mizzou, but I would love to have a local team. Any schools looking to relocate?
Just throwing it out there. |
| Jeff Gordon: Maybe Father Biondi will keep his roll going and make SLU into the New Notre Dame . . . |
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| Travis from Red Bud: I've noticed that Chris Duncan seems to be standing farther away from the plate then I have ever noticed before, so pitchers are throwing him away, away, away. Shouldn't someone be telling him to either get closer to the plate, or start looking to hit the ball the other way? |
| Jeff Gordon: It's a thought. He has long arms and big reach, but obviously teams will keep pitching him away. |
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Ken Wilson: Hey Jeff,
Why the talk about starting Mark Mulder again when he has yet to prove he can effectively pitch at the big league level lately? Mitchell Boggs hasn't set the league on fire but I can't imagine that Mulder is better at this time.
Your thoughts? |
| Jeff Gordon: I don't mind giving him a look. Duncan can assess him. Maybe the big league atmosphere will motivate him to finish the job of rehabbing the shoulder. If he blows up . . . well, at least you know. |
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Pat: Hey Gordo,
Does a loss to Illinois ruin Mizzou's hopes at a national title next year?
Also, who do you like in that game? |
Jeff Gordon: Losing early is better than losing late, as we've seen. If they ran the table after that, they would be OK. Especially with the Big 12 title game. But I do expect the Tigers to win that game with Daniel eager to campaign again for the Heisman.
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Ken Wilson: Gordo,
What's the real reason the Cards brass sees the present day Chris Duncan a better option than Joe Mather? One the surface I think Mather deserved more at bats to show that he will or will not hit at the big league level.
Also, do you think any of the following will have a bright future with the Cardinals and why: Rasmus, Mather, B. Anderson, and Stavinoha, and Jon Jay. |
Jeff Gordon: Mather needed to stay hot, then stay healthy. Duncan's back-to-back 20-homer seasons get overlooked, but it would have been hard NOT to use him when Pujols went down. (Even though Duncan didn't hit well in Memphis.)
Given Duncan credit for Sunday -- he tried to pull that out for the Cards.
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| Dan in Dublin: Would the Cards have any interest in Brian Fuentes? He seems like the perfect lefty to solidy the bullpen. |
| Jeff Gordon: He has the credentials to really help. That would be worth a prospect or two, for sure. |
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| chattylicker: I like the article about steven jackson stepping it up and saying what the real fans are thinking, the fans are always sitting down only a couple of people are actually getting nuts at games. What do you think our chances of beating the seahawks are this year it kills me every year to see matt hasselbeck tear apart our secondary because of the lack of pressure! |
Jeff Gordon: Adding Long and getting Hall and Little back, the Rams better have pressure. It would be sad if they didn't.
As for Jackson, let's see if he actually masters pass blocking this season. He needs to clean up his own game before popping off about others. |
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Eddie: Hey Jeff,
Any news on how Yadi felt after catching for the first time since the collision? Also, is there a timetable on our rehabbing pitchers, Mulder and Clement, before their year is called a bust?
Thanks for your time! |
| Jeff Gordon: Molina told the guys he is fine. Clement is real close to being a washout. He is in the Memphis bullpen, still looking for his fastball. And Mulder we'll see soon enough. |
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JC: Gordo
Thanks for taking my question. I was curious who (top 2 or 3 guys) in the Cards minor league organization has the best chance to make a significant impact next year that no one knows about? I think the next wave of guys could be Garcia and Todd but by now I think a lot of people know of them at this point. Also what is your take on Clayton Mortensen's future and potential? Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: Clayton was viewed as a front burner guy this spring and he is working back to that. Jon Jay (forgot to comment on him earlier) will move up eventually, but outfielder Shane Robinson is the new guy on the come. So many outfielders, starting with Rasmus -- who is really hitting now. |
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Springfieldcard: Hey gordo,
with the way our outfield is playing and Mather, Stavinoha, Barton, Rasmus, Jay, and Robinson all pushing towards AAA, who is on the way out? We can't keep them all and it looks like Ankiel, Skip, and Ludwick will be the starting guys next year as well. It looks like Jay and Robinson have caught Rasmus so do we now use rasmus to get this team som help?
thanks,
P Helms |
| Jeff Gordon: The trade mart will eventually sort that out. Which players will other teams want? Barton and Duncan are the lesser defensive players in the current group. |
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| Tank: Hey Gordo, I was reading an article on hockeybuzz.com the other day that said the Blues were one of four teams looking at Jason Spezza. The same article also said that the Blues were looking to make a big move that night. Was this referring to Spezza or possibly someone else? If the Spezza rumor is true and the Blues are looking at him, who would we give up for him? |
| Jeff Gordon: JD keeps blowing off that talk, insisting he will stay with his kids. That makes sense . . . unless he can move McKee's money. And if he could, why trade Perron? Any other team would want him. |
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Kyle: Jeff-
Thanks again for taking my question(s)...
Just wanted to get your thoughts (Gordo predictions) on a few questions about the Blues now and after July 1. Can Pietrangelo make it out camp with an initial roster spot? Does management feel they can go with what they have or do they need to find an established center in the market? Will they get one? Who stays and who goes before free agency? Are they deep enough in goal now? What's the status of the several Blues players not playing with an NA affiliate (whos' rights are owned by the club) about coming to camp this year? Shishkanov etc. Who do they see taking another shot at making the team-either here or Peoria?
Thanks. |
| Jeff Gordon: Right now, Berglund is the the No. 2 center. If he holds up, keeping Tkachuk and Oshie on the wing, that is pretty good. With McDonald in the last year of his deal, he is on the bubble. He has the skill to be a No. 1 center, but he needs to get it back. Could the team use one more skilled center? Sure, because Eller oould be a winger as well. Charles Linglet might get a look as a fill-in winger here, but there wasn't a lot of NHL-type forward talent at Peoria last year. |
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Ken Wilson: Gordo,
While the Cards have been a pleasant surprise does anyone see them making a serious run at the World Series? That said, with trade rumors starting to appear, is there any situation available that would cause Mo to trade Rasmus or Garcia this season? |
| Jeff Gordon: That would be nuts. By 2009, the Cards will have a ton of young talent on the roster and the payroll space to add proven offense. This could be a juggernaut in a year, if the team avoids trading another Danny Haren. Any move the team does make should land a player capable of joining the nucleus for a LONG time. |
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Tom: Jeff
I am reading the Rams have interest in former Raider OL Barry Sims...have you heard anything ?
Ram fan in Seattle.... |
| Jeff Gordon: They had him in for a visit and they want one more veteran for camp, but that might be overkill. As it is, the team is trying to put six starters into five spots. |
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| JC: Thanks for answering my prior question. I meant to ask who the are some of the pitchers that not many people have heard of could make a significant impact next year. I agree with you on the OF's that you named...obviously Rasmus will and I agree with Jay...this Robinson kid has shown some great potential as well. Seems we have way too many OF's (I say this loosely since it is a great to have this many very good players at any position) that are getting close and that will be one of our bright spots if we were wanting a few guys to use for trade bait. |
Jeff Gordon: Motte throws the ball a million miles per hour, but he needs more polish to join this pen. Ottavino is getting beat up at Springfield, so he's a ways off. Walters is crafty, but it's hard to imagine a guy winning at this level without more velocity.
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| Mike: Jeff, you keep talking about the Cards aquiring Michael Young from the Rangers. Question from Dallas is what would you be willing to give up for him? It's going to take a lot more than a handfull of beans to get the face of the franchise. More percisely what good young pictching would the Cards be willing to give up? |
| Jeff Gordon: Good question. If I'm Texas, I'd insist on McClellan as part of the package. And Garcia, the rare lefty with big ponttial. And that might be a deal breaker. The Rangers are going to shrug at Duncan/Reyes/Thompson/Boggs/so on and so forth. |
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| Fyten: How is Philip McRae different from Charles Linglet. From the descriptions I've read, they seem to be similar players. |
| Jeff Gordon: Linglet took a long time to develop, but he is now a player capble, I think, of filling a role in St. Louis. McRae is early in the process. If he improves his skating and starts making more plays in the OHL, he could develop more quickly. It's tough to project his upside, but suffice to say he could have piled up points in college had he gone that way. |
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| ronjon: What steven said was dead on about the fans, who cares if the guy is so so in pass blocking, he is still allowed to say that most fans in that lower bowl would be better off watching the game at home and giving up those season tickets to the next generation. |
Jeff Gordon: I side with the fans on this one. Why should I spend money on gas, parking and comically overpriced concessions to watch a 3-13 team when better games are on the big screen at home?
Thanks for all the questions! Catch you next time!
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