Blues make changes to hockey operations

Taylor, DiMaio gain promotions; MacInnis assumes role of advisor to GM

By LOUIE KORAC
ST. LOUIS -- With training camp approximately six weeks away, Blues general manager Doug Armstrong announced some changes to their hockey operations staff before heading into the 2012-13 season.

The following will have different titles for the upcoming season: Dave Taylor, who previously held the title of the director of player personnel; Al MacInnis, who held the position of vice president of hockey operations and Rob DiMaio, who served as a pro scout.

Taylor steps into the role MacInnis previously held. He joined the Blues in 2010 after serving the same role with the Dallas Stars from 2007-10 and as general manager of the Los Angeles Kings from 1997-2006.

MacInnis, who served as vice president of hockey operations since 2006, will become a senior advisor to Armstrong, a role Larry Pleau held after being the team's GM for 13 years beginning in 1997. before joining the front office, MacInnis concluded a Hall of Fame career of 23 seasons, including the last 10 spent in St. Louis where he compiled 452 points (127 goals, 325 assists) in 613 games played for the Blues. He won the Norris Trophy in 1999.

DiMaio, who played 17 seasons in the NHL, joined the Blues in 2008. He will assume the role held by Kevin McDonald, the team's assistant general manager and GM of the Peoria Rivermen.