nickn: What in the world has happened that Cardinals players do not even attempt to move a runner to third base and no outs? In extra innings on Thursday, there were two situations, albeit the runners both got to 2nd base with two strikes on both Molina and Ryan, where both hitters pulled the ball to the left side not advancing the runner to third.

virginiatom: Bradford, Smith, Seffold, Lauranitis, Long are some good young players to build around, and they clearly have a future in this league. However, they are all first or second round picks which should be can't miss prospects. The failure of the Rams has been in their 3rd round and below, where they have no one on the roster drafted in these spots who would start on any team in this league. That is why the Rams have no depth, and that is why the Rams have so many holes on their starting offense and defense. With that said, given the team's dismal record of drafting beyond the first round, why not package those draft picks and get some proven talent in here to begin to fill some of these holes instead of wasting those picks, as has been the case. The list of outstanding players that have been had for lower round draft picks the past two years is amazing. Braylon Edwards, Brandon Marshall, Antonio Cromartie, Greg Carmarillo, Jammal Brown, Tony Sheffler, Santonio Holmes, and Anquon Boldon would all look good in a Rams uniform and are better than anyone we have drafted. That is why I hope the Rams look at a guy like Revis or Jackson and offer up some picks to make a run at them.

nickn: Certainly no one will disagree that the Thursday night loss versus the Nationals was one of the most frustrating of the season. The two things that concern me most is Carp's behavior and this Lopez-Ryan thing. First, Chris really could not overcome the Lopez error, losing his concentration in not being able to mitigate damage and instead apparently sulking the rest of the inning. Let's not forget the entire country got to see Carp ream out Ryan in the stairway from the dugout after the 1st inning for being late to take the field and with the wrong glove. Second, it really seems that the pitchers want Ryan out there despite the fact that he makes his share of bone heads plays at the plate too. Would you agree that Chris needs to control his anger better and instead rise to the occasion in overcoming adversity as one of the main stars of the team? Also comment on the Lopez-Ryan situation-is Tony ready to give the everyday job to Ryan more because Lopez is so bad both at the plate and in the field? Is their a building tension about who should play short with the starting pitchers and the coaches?

virginiatom: Great article you wrote on Avery, but in reality, since he was drafted you never knew after being tackled if he was going to get off the turf or not. His injury prone history left the Rams with a reciever on the roster who more often than not was off the field than on, and prevented the Rams from looking for someone more durable because they Avery on the roster, living off the expectations of a hard to fathom draft status. The reality is that he should not be the Rams number 1 receiver and he has done nothing to earn that role. Now with him out, the Rams need to find that person. Jackonson is clearly that. What will it take to get him and do you think the Rams make a play for him? I don't think a number 1 pick for him is something I would do, but a 2 or 3 I would definately consider. Throw in a lower round pick as well if necessary. Also, how about Hurd or Crayton from Cowboys? Are they an upgrade?

donald box: Hey Jeff what do you think the cards will do this winter. Look for a power hitter, astarting pitcher, a second basement or a closer. And move holliday out of the clean up spot.I don;t think he hits well behind albert.