The e-mail was light this week. But it's only 104 days until pitchers and catchers report, so it's not too early to send your concerns.

Q, from Phil in Texarkana: If Barry Larkin gets hurt again or doesn't hit (again) next year, do you think the Reds would put Aaron Boone at short permanently and play Larson/Branyan at third? (I might prefer them to do that from the start).

A: If Larkin's injured, you'll see that move. And I think you'll see it when he's rested. But I don't see Larkin getting benched.

Q, from Chad: I'm a Reds fan and have been following your articles regarding the Reds for some time now. I am also a subscriber to Baseball America. In the latest issue, I came across the Reds' draft report card. Knowing the Reds struggled on offense this year, I cannot help but wonder why they have not made sure they sign their best offensive draft pick (Mark Schramek), especially since they drafted him in the supplemental first round and he is willing to accept far less than market value according to this article. Do you know what gives?

A: I asked Jim Bowden in July if the Reds were happy with the progress of their draft picks. He said: "Yes, because we've signed our top pick (Chris Gruler)." Schramek was a college senior, so the Reds still have his rights.

Q, from Gerry: That Pete Rose supposedly was kept from Cinergy's final game and allowed to attend MasterCard's Most Memorable Moments because of a "fan vote" is ridiculous. Does whoever is in charge (presumably Bud Selig) actually think that, had it come to a vote, there would be even a single Cincinnatian against letting Rose attend the final game? If the fan vote bears such omnipotence, how about Bud let the fans vote on whether or not to oust him from his throne. Then we'll see if it was really the vote and not certain financial benefits that influenced his wise decisions

A: Bud's going to put his future up to a vote about the same time Fidel Castro holds free elections. The sad thing is, having Rose at the close of Cinergy would have done no harm and would have made baseball look good - for once.

Q, from Mark in Cincinnati: Is there any word yet on when the Bob Boone Bobblehead will be given away at a game next season? You know, The one that will only bobble vigorously in a vertical motion? Gee, I sure do miss Jack McKeon. He had something called a backbone. That is why he was dismissed.

A: No word on a Boone bobblehead. But chances of that happening are better than Jack being brought back.

E-mail jfay@enquirer.com