Braves

By John Munford

November 29, 2005 04:11 PM | Link to this

Hey there DOB, hope you enjoyed the break. Back to the hot stove with ya!

What do you think about the Yankees reportedly pursuing Farnsworth? Kinda puts him out of the Braves price range, huh?

And do the Wagner and Ryan deals escalate free agent prices to the point where the Braves can’t afford anybody? If that’s so, who inside the system will they look to? Please don’t tell me Reitsma is the man. He’s another example of a Braves player that folds in the playoffs like a cheap suit.

Keep up the good blogging work.

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 04:29 PM | Link to this

Hope everyone had a great turkey day! I heard the gNats are close to acquiring Javier Vasquez….that hurts…I hoped we might be able to get him! And the Mets, bless their little hearts…aren’t they just adorable…throwing good money after bad…the same way they have for the better part of the last two decades. HAs it ever worked? Well, one year they got lucky and got to the WS because they didn’t have to go through the Braves. Otherwise, just one disaster after the other….from Frank Violla to Bobby Bonilla…Mo Vaughn to Carlos Beltran. They’re a good team on paper, but…

Can’t wait to see what JS has up his sleeve for Christmas! I hope it’s better than the lump of coal we got in our stockings last year!

By Kevin

November 29, 2005 04:34 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the information. JS and the Braves will do something and who knows what that will be, if Furcal is the main priority and he wants to stay with the Braves, will he take a discount in the range of 8 a year? Can Farnsworth handle New York? In an ideal world, resign Farnsworth for the 8th and Hoffman for the 9th. Devine, McBride, Boyer, Lerew fill out the 6 and 7 innings. Then use Giles, hey just speculating here, to trade for a starting pitcher. Thompson, Estrada, and Sosa are also available for strengthening the bench, sorry Julio, Hollandsworth. One player I think would be interesting for the Braves would be Roberts from the O’s. Nothing against Marcus but just a thought. With all of the signings, Wagner is going to regret going to the Mets, Baez is not being mentioned by anyone. Well these next two weeks will be interesting, DOB keep up the good work.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 29, 2005 04:54 PM | Link to this

If the Braves keep Furcal then I think Giles is gone as well. I think Atlanta would be wise to get Hoffman. The Mets seem like the favorites but I think it was too early to make them the N.L. east champs.

By David O'Brien

November 29, 2005 04:55 PM | Link to this

Well, I hate to contradict myself so soon, but note I did write the above blog early this morning.

I’ve since had some conversations that lead me to believe Furcal is far from a done deal for Braves. Far, far from a done deal. But that’s all I can say now.

Gonna keep making calls and got to write for tomorrow’s paper.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 29, 2005 05:00 PM | Link to this

Well, DOB, that is fine. I think in the end that the Cubs will do whatever it takes to get Furcal. They have enormous motivation. The Red Sox and the hated White Sox have won the last 2 WS. How can the Cubs survive in Chicago with the Sox winning the title and the Cubs stil struggling? The pressure is on and Dusty knows it.

By Greg

November 29, 2005 05:06 PM | Link to this

For some reason, everyone praises the non-Braves NL East big mover every offseason. Last season, the Mets were golden with bringing in Beltran and Pedro and the Marlins for Delgado. Obviously, none of those worked out. Now, Once again the Mets are “obviously the favorites” to win the NL East. Aside from David Wright, what is so threatening? Sure, if all their 35+ers are healthy, they could be scary, but that is a HUGE if. Wagner has battled injuries seemingly every year except the last one, Delgado is starting to show his age, Glav is still haunted by leaving Bobby and, well, Pedro could easily get tired after 15 starts and be mildly ineffective the rest of the year as he used to do in Boston…. only there, he had a murderer’s lineup behind him. He could have that in NY, but even a young guy like Beltran has only shown flashes of brilliance… lets see him put together a few consecutive years before we start calling him the next A-Rod like Scott Boras did when he effectively hoodwinked Omar Minaya. I think its fairly safe to say that Omar is just loving having money instead of focusing on talent development that laid the seeds for the Nationals and a few decent years in Montreal. I’ll take Hudson, Smoltz and Thomson over Pedro, Glavine and redman… lets just see where this goes…

By Peter

November 29, 2005 05:08 PM | Link to this

Crappy weather throughout the midwest today. I don’t know if you wrote something about this while I was gone but what did you make of Moore deciding to turn down the second interview with the Red Sox? Lucchino made it sound as if he’d been made a promise to move up in Atlanta but the Boston press presented it as his not wanting to deal with the screwed up situation in the front office there.

I think the Mets have to be the favorites also and this isn’t the same group making decisions as in the old days. While Wilpon has a new cable network the main part of the money they’re spending seems to be from their increased attendance last season.

As much as I complain about TW a lot of the truth is our attendance has been mostly stagnant up until last season. Have fun out there, Wyndam is a great place. I would be flabbergasted if Furcal chose Atlanta.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 29, 2005 05:17 PM | Link to this

Furcal’s heart is undoubtedly in Atlanta but his pocketbook won’t be. THe BRaves need to make some splash. They have holes and I’m growing a little uneasey with the fact that none of them have been addresed.

By Miles

November 29, 2005 06:02 PM | Link to this

if we dont re-sign Furcal we could be in trouble. Everyone raves about Bettemit, and while he could be a very solid player for years to come, he isnt a lead-off hitter. Julio Lugo is a possibility and maybe Garciaparra, but after that who else is really available? Please dont say Ichiro because the Mariners are not going to trade away their best player unless a team gives them a knockout offer which we cannot provide. We NEED to get Furcal, he is one of the most important hitters in our lineup and its no secret that when he got hot after the all-star break, the team went on a winning streak. As for the closer situation I would like to see us offer a 3 year deal to Hoffman because he is dependable and still a top 5 closer in the game today. With F******* and Hoffman we would be set for 2006 because I do not see any other holes in this club and we have so much depth. Of course Schuerholz will add another mid releiver and set-up man to bolster the bullpen but that would be about it. But if there is one thing I have learned about Schuerholz these past few years, its that he makes 1 big move in the offseason that comes out of nowhere. I have heard various people and news sources mention Zito in a trade but we will have to wait and see.

By Chad

November 29, 2005 06:02 PM | Link to this

If you can’t get Furcal, you get Nomar… cheap. Make Giles lead off and get Hoffman. Then unload Estrada for some relief in the pen. Don’t worry about the Mets. They always spend and end up with nothing. The Marlins are a dead fish. All we have to do is hold off the Phillies….who don’t look to dangerous right now either. Looks like 15 in a row!

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 06:32 PM | Link to this

Lol Carroll, Funny Christmas Analogy, I don’t think we ned Vazquez and I think That has been the only discussion so far that we haven’t agreed 100%, I think If we lose Furcal, Schuerholtz will pull something out of the hat… like trading Estrada & LaDouche and getting Konerko… however I’m living fantasies, but the mutts don’t scare me unless they get Manny… Remember the 0-6 start last year after ESPN KISSED THEIR (EXEPLETIVE) All off-season last year, and this year they are already the Parer champs

Chad What R U smokin Giles has decent speed but the leadoff thing was a fiasco when furcal went down in 01

Go Braves!!!

By Steve

November 29, 2005 06:43 PM | Link to this

I really don’t think that Furcal is as important as the Braves are making him to be, and they really shouldn’t have him dictate what they’re doing. That could be why they didn’t get Wagner. Sure Furcal’s a good player, but not at 10 million a year when you have Betemit and Marte (funny how no one has thought of using Marte at short, he was named the best defensive third baseman at every minor league stop). Also, I don’t see any reason why they should(or have to) trade Giles. They’ve got no obvious replacement for him, and it’s not like they won’t get offers for Ramirez and Estrada, plus they’ll lose Kolb’s 3.4 million. I still think that the best guy (and most logical) that they could get is Brian Giles, and I think he would seriously consider playing here simply because Marcus is here. I don’t think their lineup right now is as good as the Phillies or Mets. As for the bullpen, I think Hoffman makes sense if it’s for no longer than 2 years, but they’re gonna have to act quickly.

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 07:17 PM | Link to this

Brian Giles definitely wants to play on a team with his brother. If that can’t be in the Atl (and at his asking price probably shouldn’t be in the Atl), why not trade Gily to San Diego for Dave Roberts and some bullpen help. Not sure of his numbers last year but he’s fast enough to lead off.

Marte does not have the speed, quickness or range to play SS. Just cuz someone’s a good defensive 3bman doesn’t mean he’ll be a good SS….that’s why you haven’t heard anyone discuss that. I do think that Marte could make for very attractive trade bait in an effort to get Ichiro….we have more to offer in our minors than most, Steve……doesn’t have to be straight up, star for star!

Tommy: Vasquez would give us that terrific three in the starting rotation good enough to compete with Houston. Unfortunately, now the Mets are also mentioned to possibly get him. This is getting obscene with how much $$$$$$$$$$$$$ the Mutts are spending. They’re making a mockery of baseball…..almost to the same extent that the Yankees always have.

By Chad

November 29, 2005 07:37 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, In 2005 Giles had a better OBP than Furcal. I’ll give you his lead off troubles in ‘01, but it’s 5 years later now! He’s a much better hitter now than he was back then. I think we can win with him at the top. I agree with Steve, Furcal is good, but he’s not a MUST have.

By Peter

November 29, 2005 07:38 PM | Link to this

Furcal is important and the Mets aren’t going to fail forever. Wagner and Delgado are proven players and without all of the focus not on Beltran he may very well return to form.

We shouldn’t forget that our staff has had a couple of injuries these last two seasons and I don’t think that we can really rely on rolling guys out there every five days like we used to. The Mariners aren’t going to trade their best player for a minor league third baseman when they just spent 45 million for Beltre last season.

If anything anybody is going to be asking for it’s the young pitchers. The Braves along with every other team in baseball will recieve a huge increase in rights fees (internet, new TV deal) and the pending sale of the Nationals. I wish they’d consider putting a bit more of it into the team.

Not asking them to go nuts over every over priced free agent but the team can’t afford mistakes. Really what would have happened last year if the young guys hadn’t been ready?

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 07:43 PM | Link to this

Chad have U seen Giles’s bunting skills, he also strikes out too much for the fact that he has a long swing, If he cuts down on it maybe, still Giles scares no one on the bases. 1 thing U have 2 remember was Furcal got off 2 a horrible start in 05, look at what kind of money he would be denamding if he had hit like he did in the 2nd half all year…

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 07:45 PM | Link to this

Chad: Beltran might return to form? What form? He has been a slightly above avg player his entire career with a really good six week stint at the end of the 04 season. Last year was really a typical year for him, and signing him for a million gajillion dollars or whatever they gave him is all too typical of the Mutts. You’re right…They won’t fail forever, but as long as they keep doing the same stupid things they’ve been doing for the last 20 years (overpaying for aging veterans rather than building a farm), they won’t be a threat.

And of course I meant that Marte might be a valuable piece in a package deal for Ichiro.

By Mack Daddy

November 29, 2005 07:47 PM | Link to this

let furcal walk….bring up jeff blauser and resign glavine….i heard otis nixon still has legs, resign him and he can lead off….yeah baby! go braves.

By joel

November 29, 2005 07:47 PM | Link to this

very interesting for me to see that Braves fans can say some pretty silly things, for example: 1. Mets starting pitching leaves a lot to be desired? I think its a strength. Their starting staff is 5 to 6 deep and their worst starter is average. 2. Carlos Delgado is “showing signs of age”? Do you mean the 115 rbis or the oba of .393? 3. Delgado “didn’t work out for the Marlins”? How so? 4. Sorry, guys, but if you lose Furcal, forget it. Hope you enjoyed your days in the sun!

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 07:52 PM | Link to this

Joel UR Comment “:Sorry, guys, but if you lose Furcal, forget it. Hope you enjoyed your days in the sun!” WRONG WRONG…U livin Fantasies Dude, Til proven otherwise the road to October will always Roll through the “A”

Carroll I like Hamdog when he is healthy even though he should’ve been taking notes on chipper, He makes too much however, and wouldn’t mind seeing him traded Did any one read the braves vent, one venter said quote

“Braves fans will be spared another playoff meltdown. The New York METS have set themselves up to win the NL East. It’s so over for the braves in 2006!”

Boy, this obviously came from a venter who caught Francoeur Fever and didn’t start watching the team til july. ANY Braves fan with some sense knows the MUTTS have been the Paper champs in 4 of the last 5 years, that venter has been brainwashed by ESPN…Wonder why we are called the worst fans in the nation

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:04 PM | Link to this

Anyone think Barry Zito is a possibility? We could trade Thomson, Sosa, Marte? Our Starting Staff would look something like this…. 1. Smoltz 2. Hudson 3. Zito 4. Ramirez 5. Davies Although very young, the potential is there for the Rotation to be superb. If we let furcal go, I think we could go after Zito, and with Chippers grand gesture, we would have room to go after Hoffman and maybe Angel Berroa? Julio Lugo? Although a drop-off from Furcal, the addition of Zito and Hoffman would undoubtedly swing the balance of power back in our favor. Losing Furcal would sting, but I like the idea of going after Zito and Hoffman…what do you guys think?

By Rich

November 29, 2005 08:06 PM | Link to this

“Dude, Til proven otherwise the road to October will always Roll through the “Aâ€?”

You mean the road to the first round … and no further?

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 08:13 PM | Link to this

SINCE I’m in such a good mood I’m gonna let that slide. Thats kind of Hard To down Ur team like that, like I said earlier U guys wonder why we are labeled the worse fans in the country….

Anyway I just heard word on a link on philly.com (discussion board) that The Farns sold out to the Yanks 3yrs-17mill…D.O.B. Tell Me I’m Lyin, because I liked the Farns

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:13 PM | Link to this

Whos this guy??^^^

Man, you should know to not knock a dynasty, it makes us angry.

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:15 PM | Link to this

I liked the Farn’s to, hes a good man. Maybe that will lite a fire under J.S. and he will go and up the anty to Hoffman.

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 08:15 PM | Link to this

Tommy: who is hamdog?

Eric: I’m kinda over the soft tossing finesse pitchers, which both Hoffsy and Zito are. We need power pitchers….maybe even keep farnsy for a year or two whilest we groom Devine?

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:17 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin, what do you think of the Zito idea? He would give us an amazing 1-5 rotation.

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 08:17 PM | Link to this

Okay, so much for that idea if you’re right Tommy. Bring on Hoffsy.

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:21 PM | Link to this

Yeah you are probably right Carrol, getting him probably would score us another DIV. title, but dont know how much more than that. Maddux and Glavine where both better pitchers than Zito in there prime, and that really didnt get us anywhere. Exception 95’. I just think he may be pretty easy to get over here, with Hudson all and who doesn’t want to pitch in ATL? Besides we have alot of bargaining chips, and expendable players. Being deep at almost every position in the farm is a nice thing to have.

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 08:22 PM | Link to this

Eric: if we’re gonna trade for a big name pitcher it should be a hard thrower like Vazquez.

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:25 PM | Link to this

Carroll- He would compliment Hudson and Smoltz nicely. He would not be the “guy” in the rotation, he would not have alot of pressure, and he could settle into his own Niche. Vazquez would be a good signing.

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:31 PM | Link to this

Well, Zito may not be that easy to get. After the A’s and Billy Beene got wacked in the Hudson deal (so far) they may be reluctant to trade with J.S. again. LOL.

By Chad

November 29, 2005 08:32 PM | Link to this

I can’t find anything on the Farnsworth deal. I think it’s BS. He owns a house in Canton. I’m willing to bet he signs in ATL. We’re really not sure what kind of money J.S. has to spend. We might all be suprised in a few weeks. It’s not gonna take much to put us back in the hunt. A Zito deal isn’t really out of the question. We got Hudson. Which means JS has networking in Oakland. And deep at every position on the farm is true. A good lefty in the rotation would be nice. Hamdog is Mike Hampton..I think. He’s on th eshelf next year you know.

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:34 PM | Link to this

D.O.B. Any inklings about the Braves going after Zito? I have heard they are interested, but wouldnt we have to give up a substantial contract (Thomson) to get him? Top Prospect (Marte?) And another pitcher?

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 08:34 PM | Link to this

Carroll Hamdog is Hampton… I like the idea of Dave Roberts, But I Dunno about His D

Eric I’m Wit Carroll on viewing Zito… We did not get anywhere wit Marksmen Glavine, Maddux against Johnson, Schilling, But a-lot of that has to do with Luck….

I Dunno about y,all but we own those 2 in the regular season, but like everything else in the postseason it’s a different story

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 08:37 PM | Link to this

CHAD, Anything IS BS when you’re dealing with AOL/TW, I heard the link was on the NYNEWS.COM

By Eric

November 29, 2005 08:41 PM | Link to this

The way I see it, with Chipper here for at least the next 3 years, Marte will have to learn another position. 1B is really out of the question, with prospects in the system breathing down Adam’s neck. Also Salty has been mentioned as a 1B option, mainly becuase McCann seems like the catcher for the next few yrs. The O.F. seems to be the only option. And from what I hear, he didnt fair so well last season when he was stuck out there. Instead of just letting him rot down in AAA. Why not trade him for a big name? He most likely will not get the chance to play third with Campbell ready to step in for Chipper once he retires. The only thing J.S. has to worry about is getting equal talent in return. Marte has 35+ homer potential, and that is mighty nice.

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 08:42 PM | Link to this

my fault, its nyynews.com…I just went to that website and It Bout made me sick, just to see all dat yankee proproganda on there…cough, cough, I think I’m bleeding inside my chest…I think The Farns Just Sold out, Hope he ends up like Karsay, If any of u other than Carroll remember him

By Mark

November 29, 2005 08:43 PM | Link to this

Happy holiday’s to all !!!! We see the mindless offseason spending spree has begun in earnest and it’s gonna be fun to see how the bumbling Mets are going to waste all that talent. Furcal is H I S T O R Y , take the 1st round draft as compensation and cry in your beer , folk’s. I can’t wait to see what kind of rabbit JS pull’s out of his hat this winter. Wouldn’t Zito look great in a Bravos uniform ? and how much should we trade for him. The Redsox , Whitesox and guess who’s next ? The Baseball God’s have spoken. The Cubbies are gonna win it all in 2006. A division title is the best we can hope for in 2006. I just want to see the kids get a chance to prove just how loaded the Bravos minor league system really is. do like we did in 1991 and let the talent prove itself. Go BRAVOS !!!!

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 08:54 PM | Link to this

The Word of Mouf on The Farns Sellin out to the Yanks in also on Bravescenter.com. … Who N the Hell would want to leave Atlanta to go to New Yawk, other than Glavine and Sheffield… and The Fans of New Yawk have treated them like royalty, lol

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 08:55 PM | Link to this

that link is braves.scout.com/index.html

By Chad

November 29, 2005 08:59 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe Farnsy sold out. Tomahawkin: Thanks for the link. Like you, I was sickened by all of the Yankees crap.

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 09:03 PM | Link to this

Thats Bogus, It ruins my day to see that talent go to waste, another Name I forgot who loved the Greener Pastures of New Yawk was Jaret Wright…I bet he loved it when the New Yawk Press got in His (EXEPLETIVE)

By Bobby

November 29, 2005 09:06 PM | Link to this

Whither Hamdog? There is no Hamdog - only Hammy. Doggy went to the Cubs. Furcy will go, too. That puts the Furdoggy in Chicago. Hope this clears up any confusion.

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 09:09 PM | Link to this

Now’s Not the Time,dude, The Farns Just Sold Out to the yanks

By Rich

November 29, 2005 09:17 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the great info. As much as I appreciate all Furcal brings to the Braves, I’d rather see that 8-10 million spread throughout the roster.

Here’s one idea: get a low-cost stopgap shortstop to replace Furcal (A. Gonzalez?)and use Betemit as the backup. This will save money and also keep the pipeline open for the Braves’ developing shortstops.

Work out a trade for a leadoff hitting CF (Pierre?) and stick him in LF which will help defensively and help replace Furcal at the top of the lineup. Or work out a package with Tampa Bay for either Gaithwright or possibly Crawford and Baez. Put either of the speedy outfielders in LF and Baez can become the closer or setup guy. Use the rest of the money on an older closer that can be had for a reasonable price (Jose Mesa, Todd Jones). This way you could have a couple of different options for a closer/setup man.

Using the money this way would make it a possibility to keep Giles at second base, as well as put some quality, proven arms in the back end of the bullpen.

By Chad

November 29, 2005 09:20 PM | Link to this

Looks like Furcal’s going to Chicago.

By Tomahawkin

November 29, 2005 09:23 PM | Link to this

yea, I saw the 5yr-50mill offer, I know, its kinda harsh, but hope he stays away from the Cook County pen, but anyway, I’m not compassionate to overpaid athletes

By Chad

November 29, 2005 09:27 PM | Link to this

Me either! How about some freakin loyalty! Thanks Larry Jones!

By Carroll

November 29, 2005 09:43 PM | Link to this

My GAWD….PLEASE don’t waste prospects and money on Julio freakin Lugo!! That’s about 5 mill that could go to the pen! Lugo is not any better than WB at SS!! Maybe a little faster but not enough to make him worth almost 10 times more than WB!

By Mike

November 29, 2005 10:12 PM | Link to this

The Cubs are going to get Furcal, no doubt. Here’s to the end of the worst dynasty in sports history. The Braves will perish, and Bobby Cox will poop his pants.

By Eric

November 29, 2005 10:15 PM | Link to this

Unfortunatly, I guess it’s time for the obligitory shutting down of the blog….Booo….

By Chad

November 29, 2005 10:34 PM | Link to this

Mike: What do you mean “Here’s to the end.”? In the past we said good bye to Maddux, Glavine, and Lopez. That’s just to name a few. Should I add more? …..How ‘bout Justice, Gant, Blauser, or Dye, Avery, and Neagle? The list goes on and on. Every year SOMEBODY leaves and every spring, the Braves are right there in it. You can’t tell me that losing Rafeal Furcal is the end! I’m begining to think that he’s way overrated! Although…..Bobby might poop his pants!

By Eric

November 29, 2005 10:39 PM | Link to this

I agree Chad.

Where’s DOB? He needs to set us all straight and give us a piece of his mind.

By Chad

November 29, 2005 11:12 PM | Link to this

I don’t know where he is, It would have been nice to hear from him. I’m in the Navy and stationed overseas. I haven’t been able to enjoy a complete season since 2000. Being able to discuss baseball in ATL with some real fans has been great. Thanks to all! And like we Brave Fans say….There’s always next year! But better to stay on the wagon than jump off to New York or Boston!

By Eric

November 29, 2005 11:34 PM | Link to this

^^Its guys like these that make the world a better place. Thanks for all you do! ^^

By Peter

November 30, 2005 01:00 AM | Link to this

O.K. if we all agree that JS is the best GM (I think he is anyway) then why did he work so hard to keep Furcal if he can so easily be replaced? Were Chipper and Smoltz just blowing smoke on the issue too? It sends a message to the team and the fans. The average team will bring in 23 million extra this year. That’s almost enough to pay the Royals payroll before they sell one seat.

Tampa wants young pitching so screw that option and even if we were able to get a Baez he’s free after next year. I just don’t think that we can keep pulling rabbits out of the hat. Look at all of the hype surrounding Jordan and Mondesi last spring.

We’ve got some holes but a lot of teams have holes. My point is that it’s harder to fill them if you can’t really pay the going rate. I know the White Sox, the Marlins blah, blah. You guys are really telling me you’d want to spend three or four or more years with losing records to even have another chance to repeat like those teams have done?

We can’t have another bullpen of soft tossers out there. You’ve got to have a guy who if you really have to have to get out of a 1st and 3rd with nobody out is more often than not get the job done.

We have young pitching but not a lot of power arms and power at the plate takes time to bring along. I’m not in a panic but boy a lot of us won’t turn out when we know we’re going to win the division…what’ll happen if this year we find ourselves 10 out instead of 10 up?

By Joe Roman

November 30, 2005 08:00 AM | Link to this

Those of us with more brains than talent have to scratch our heads. For some semi-literate guy like Furcal, the lure of big money must be tempting. He makes all the right noises about respect for Bobby Cox and the Braves and all, but somehow he thinks the difference between say, 45 and 50 million dollars will make a his life and maybe hundreds of relatives and assorted other hangers-on somehow better. What about the joys of winning? What about the security of knowing he’s with an organization that will support him even after another DUI? I say, let him go to the Cubs(?!). Let him find out what it’s like be a perpetual loser. It looks like he’d too dumb to know the difference.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 08:11 AM | Link to this

Good morning and thanks DOB for the info… It seems to have given several bloggers a real headache, though. We have discussed the real possibility of losing both Furcal and Farns for weeks; why are you all suddenly jumping off the bridge? Let me address a couple of items I noticed above:

“Why did he (JS) work so hard to keep Furcal if he can so easily be replaced?” First, we don’t know what JS is doing. That’s one thing that makes him the best at what he does. While we’re panicking in the streets, he’s got numerous avenues with which to fill the SS/LO role(s.) Those guys have been working scenarios longer than we’ve been thinking about it.

“Work out a trade for a leadoff hitting CF (Pierre?) and stick him in LF which will help defensively…” This is one of the worst ideas I’ve seen yet. Pierre’s OBP was lower than RF’s last year, and RF’s was terrible for a LO hitter. As for the defensive “help,” Dude, you obviously weren’t paying attention. Lang is one of the best defensive OF’s in the league, not just on the team. And Pierre’s arm is so bad he can’t even throw a fit. Nuff said…

“Here’s to the end of the worst dynasty in sports history. The Braves will perish, and Bobby Cox will poop his pants.” Bite me and go back to your Yankee blog…

One more thing… I don’t dislike the Farns, (I like that… the Farns,) but he’s got to learn to throw something besides heat. During his brief stint in ATL, he was most effective when mixing in his slider. During the LDS, though, he fell back on old habits and threw heater after heater after heater. That mentality cost him in Chicago and Detroit. Even Juan Pierre is gonna get a hit after looking at the same pitch 7 times straight. Come on home Farns, if you’ve not truely already defected, and let Bullpen Professor McDowell infuse you with the closer’s mentality. If you are already gone, enjoy you’re money and you’re miserable new location. We’ll get along without you.

Hang tight, boys. JS will do what JS does, we’ll all be really surprised and excited, all we’ll all be counting the days ‘til pitchers and catchers report in Feb. You know, he actually has money to spend this year… the last couple of years he’s built contending teams while cutting payroll.

LeTwan, what did Mrs. Anthony prepare for Thanksgiving? I’m sure it was incredible…

By Dan

November 30, 2005 08:17 AM | Link to this

Let Furcal go and get Garciaparra. Pickup Trevor Hoffman and Brian Giles and trade for Zito…. Beat the Mets !!!!

By Jason

November 30, 2005 08:41 AM | Link to this

Bye, bye, Kyle…we hardly knew ye. Hoffman next on our radar? Any thoughts about trading for Kerry Wood and making him a closer? The upside of that could be lethal. Please, JS, trade Giles now…while his value is still up. He will not get any better than he is now and, look at any MLB club or even your own fantasy club, 2b is the one position on the field where production is least.
Has anyone thought about signing Nomar and making him a 2b? Looks like he’ll play anything right now at a decent price, has a lot to prove, and is hungry to just to play a full season anywhere…plus his offensive output would probably eclipse Giles’. Heard someone blogging that they would love a Tampa Bay trade…any shot of getting Kazmir?

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 08:46 AM | Link to this

While we lament the possibility of trying to replace RF at leadoff, let’s not forget that he wasn’t the prototypical leadoff hitter himself. While exciting at times, more times than I want to count he lead off with a strikeout or pop-out. All it took was a home run and RF was in a 2 week long slump where he uppercut every swing. Look at the numbers, they don’t lie. He’s not worth the $$$ he’s asking for. He is the beneficiary of a lack of SS in this year’s market. That’s the real reason for the market’s “excitement” over him. No disrespect intended, but he’s hardly Ricky Henderson remade…

As for SS, the Braves really only need a one year fix until Escobar is ready. I read that the reason Escobar didn’t advance out of Rome last year was simply a function of his inability to speak English well, and a desire to keep him in one environment for a full season. His game was certainly worthy of promotion. Look for him at Pearl or Richmond in 2006. Could AA Pearl with Blauser as manager be a bad thing?

By Kudzu

November 30, 2005 08:48 AM | Link to this

Y’ALL MEAN TO TELL ME DAN KOLB IS NOT IN THE BRAVES PLANS THIS YEAR…WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO?

Could the Mets have offered Wags a piece of owernership of the team? What a stupid contract and commitment.

I don’t mind if Raffy leaves. I don’t mind if Estrada is traded. Konerko sounds good but then you might have clubhouse issues. Marte at short, how about second? How about left field, who’s playing out there?

By Joe Roman

November 30, 2005 08:49 AM | Link to this

The first time the NY media lights into Farnsworth, presto! He turns into John Rocker. Wanna Bet? Sooner or later the Mets and Yankees will realize that playing fantasy league baseball with real money gives dumb a whole new meaning.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 08:56 AM | Link to this

Enough with the Garciaparra stuff! He has played in exactly 143 games in three seasons! He has something to prove, alright - he has to prove he can play without hurting himself. Do you want a career reclamation project on your team? That sounds like a NYM or Balt. move, not a Braves move…

By kudzu

November 30, 2005 09:04 AM | Link to this

Pierre couldn’t throw me out or my grandma out…no way we need his liability.

By AL

November 30, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

Please stop making comments about Farnsworth ‘selling out’. First of all, what loyalty does he have to the Braves? He only spent a few months with us. Second, why do people get so up in arms about ballplayers ‘selling out’. Isn’t that the fundamental American dream and capitalist economics at its best? Get what the market will give you? I’m not sure about you guys, but if I don’t get a good raise, I’m out. I’m not staying at my job for ‘loyalty’ if I don’t feel like I’m being treated for what I’m worth. That’s why unions strike, and businessman switch jobs.

I hope we keep f******* but if we don’t JS will find a way to fill the hole. We will always be the team to beat.

Go Braves!

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 09:13 AM | Link to this

TOR’s ridiculous contract with Ryan and NYM’s massive outlay to Wagner have chummed the waters for closers. The agents are circling and the result is an inflated $6M/year offer to an unproven closer such as The Farns. This, of course, empowers Hoffman, TJones, Gordon, even Mesa to command more than they’re worth - both in $$$ and contract length. Let’s not forget the trade market, where a Baez will cost more in trade than originally thought. You can bet that the Rays are now deciding which additional prospect they want in return for him. Solution? None… pay the bucks and land Hoffy. How many blown saves did the ‘pen rack up last year? Let me start the mantra now…proven closer… proven closer… proven closer…

By snowball

November 30, 2005 09:20 AM | Link to this

I’ve been following the free agent acquistions as of late and It would appear that the Braves are going to be left pretty much High and Dry. I’m an avid Braves fan but I think even with all the promising rookies, we better be content to finish fourth this coming season. Furcal is going to the Cubs, heck we can’t even re-sign Farnsworth at this point. We’re really making news on the old Free Agent Market. The 2006 Season finishes with the Mets in First, Phillies in Second and the Nationals or Marlins third, we might even get bumped to fifth. Thanks so much AOl Time Warner. Even Bobby Cox can’t continue to work miracles indefinitely.

By JK

November 30, 2005 09:33 AM | Link to this

What about Marte to TB for Baez & Gathwright? Solves the closer and leadoff problems if Furcal is gone.

By Braves fan

November 30, 2005 09:34 AM | Link to this

Okay, DOB’s blog seems a bit out of step and uninformed compared to the article about Furcal in today’s ajc. That article says Furcal is leaning towards the Cubs. I am more inclined to believe that because of the situation the Cubs are in. They have a very demanding fan base and now they are faced with having been one upped by their cross town neighbors. Their fans will have a mutiny if the team doesn’t get everything they want free agent wise. For that reason I think there is no way the Braves can match the Cubs offer, not even with a hometown discount that Furcal has hinted at. Problem is his discount would be in proportion to the Cubs offer. So no way I see him returning, especially since the Braves have depth at SS in their system. No reason to overpay. Plus I think having a prototypical leadoff hitter is an overrated concept. Unless the manager plans on having his leadoff man steal 70% of the time he reaches base (Furcal hasn’t been that active since his rookie season) or sacrificing him over with the #2 hitter (that is a huge waste of Giles bat and he sucks at sacrificing anyway) then what’s the point of having a “leadoff” hitter? Bobby Cox hasn’t employed that type of strategy since Otis Nixon was here. Just trade for Lugo, sign Garciaparra or stand pat with Betemit and then put the guy who gets on base at the highest percentage (except for Chipper) in the #1 spot. I actually am intrigued by possibly signing Nomar. I know people think he’s done. But his numbers after returning from his groin injury are completely in line with his career marks. And his career marks are fine with me. Plus remember the Bobby Cox effect on players. Doesn’t always work (Mondesi), but Nomar is a good guy who works hard and that combination and a little luck with his health could be a successful combination. He will come cheap and they can give him a one year deal (maybe with an incentive triggered option for a 2nd year) and that will allow them to wait a year or two on one of the prospects. I’ll make a prediction. If Furcal goes to Chitown and Nomar comes to the ATL, Nomar will have a better season than Furcal (reletive to the type of player they are, Furcal being a leadoff man and Nomar being a run producer). And if he gets hurt or is ineffective, they’ll have Betemit to fall back on. Plus that would save some cash to be used on a better closer. And we know the market for closers has been jakked up by the retarded Blue Jays signing of BJ Ryan. Who? And now that Wagner is off the market, the bidding for Farnsworth and Hoffman could get ugly, leaving the Braves without a chair when the music stops unless they can go a little higher than they would if they overspend on Furcal. I like Furcal, but a good closer is more important to winning than he is.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 09:37 AM | Link to this

Check your sources, snowy… What have the Phils done? They lost Wagner… they got Rowand…whoopee! The Nat’s? Uh, they’ve lost some guys… they don’t have a manager… they don’t have a GM so they can get a manager… they don’t have an owner so they can get a GM so they can get a manager… The Fish? I won’t even dignify that with a response… And the Mets? Well, they’ve thrown some money at some older guys. Can you say Viola, Bonilla, Vaughn, Glavine and Beltran? They always throw money around and it gets them exactly nowhere. If this year’s different, then God bless ‘em… I’ll look at the track record and rest comfortably.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 09:46 AM | Link to this

BF: I totally agree on the closer thing. It’s now an inflated market, but one the Braves can’t afford to miss out on. If the only recognizable name JS acquires this offseason is the closer, that’s OK. Contrary to popular belief, we have solid options at SS and leadoff. I personally like a true leadoff guy, but I agree that without a true #2, which Giles is not, the prototypical leadoff is wasted anyway. I’m still chanting my mantra: proven closer… proven closer… proven closer…

By Judge

November 30, 2005 09:47 AM | Link to this

Furcal? Let him go. He’s not worth the kind of money the Cubs are talking. Remember: his erratic arm, the alcohol, the ofttimes propensity to swing for home runs instead of simply trying to get on base. Five years at 10 mil each? Absolutely rediculous!

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 09:50 AM | Link to this

I agree that we should go hard after Hoffman. I think he would come to Atlanta for a fair price. This guy is near the end of his career and wants to win now. The Braves can provide that. I also agree on Furcal. While he is a great player, this guy has never been the prototypical leadoff hitter. His hacking for the fences can actally be beneficial in Wrigley Field but not in Atlanta. I think giving him 10 or 11 mil a year would be a horrible mistake. I say call the Marlins and see what they want for Pierre or Luis Castillo.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 09:51 AM | Link to this

Raisins: I thought the Rowand trade was a very good one for Philly. Not an instant WS contender-maker, but a very smart move. They got rid of an albatross (like I wish we could do with CJ) and got a very serviceble guy for very cheap to fill a position that has been weak for them for years. SOlid move…..the kind JS makes. By the way, I noticed how you borrowed some names that the Mets have thrown money at from an earlier blog of mine….nice job :) Here are some others: roger cedeno, Robin Ventura, Robby Alomar…

As to all the people who say get Nomah or Lugo, just one question….WHY???!!! I think we all can agree that our most pressing need is the pen, right? SO WHY waste several million dollars that could go to a hoffsy or the farns when WB can do just as good of a job, for the league minimum?! HAs the money in baseball gotten so out of control that we have lost sight of the value of the 4-5 million dollars those guys would command?! That’s beaucoups of money people!

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this

What about Octavio Dotel for closer?! Here’s a guy who can flat bring it…..but due to injury last year, we could possibly get him on the cheap. Other relief pitchers still available and worth a look (for the 8th inning NOT closer) include: Jason Grimsley, Braden Looper, Felix Rodriguez, Joey Eischen, Mike Myers.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 10:02 AM | Link to this

Carroll: Actually, I did borrow those names from your blog, but failed to go back to source it… just lazy I guess. My humble apologies… That being said, I’m only reinforcing your point, big names don’t necessarily mean big deals. As for Rowand, I wasn’t inferring he was a bad player, only that he alone doesn’t propel the Phils past the Braves, especially in light of their loss of Wagner. I’m totally with you on the ‘pen vs. SS thing. Anyone who has read any of my previous posts knows how I feel about that one…

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 10:06 AM | Link to this

Has anyone noticed that Jose Mesa informed the Rangers that he would accept an 8th inning role? What if you brought in Mesa and Todd Jones to handle 8/9. You’d probably get both for what you could get a Hoffy or Wickman type and capably cover 8/9 on relatively short term deals while grooming Devine and Boyer.

By JK

November 30, 2005 10:13 AM | Link to this

Wait!!! JS if you read this, please ignore the Dotel comment. As one who follows the A’s after living Oakland, Dotel can throw hard and straight. He has no movement on his fastball, and is coming off major surgery. He was never that reliable to begin with. I’d rather see Kolb out there.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 10:14 AM | Link to this

Dotel could be the true test of the source of the Braves ability to squeeze gold out of pitchers seemingly past their prime. Was it Leo or is it the system?

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 10:22 AM | Link to this

Here’s a question. What are the Braves going to do with Kolb? Can they really afford to send him back on the mound?

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 10:33 AM | Link to this

And what are they going to do with that Bozo Reeksma? God help me if I have to go through another year of watching that clown blow games for us! Hell, as much as we lampoon Kolb up on here, Reeksma had even more blown saves! I thought we were close to giving him to the Rocks but I guess that fell through.

Had no idea about Dotel, JK. I just knew that he throws hard…..thanks for the perspective. HArd throwers mean nothing if they don’t have movement (see Jose Capellan, Chris Reeksma and his laser straight fastball, and the Farns to a lesser extent, etc, etc).

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 10:40 AM | Link to this

Raisins, I read that Mesa had a terrible 2nd half last year….he’s through. Let’s not waste anymore time, money, heartache on washed up, marginal pitchers. If we can’t get a hoffsy or keep the farns then I say forgeddaboutit! I think Boyer/Devine can close out just as well as MEsa or T Jones and for MUCH cheaper. McBride will be a solid lefty in mid relief. I liked what I saw out of James and Lerew as well. Let’s just trim the fat and build the pen around that nucleus with some cheap, solid vets like Joey Eischen and Jason Grimsley.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 10:48 AM | Link to this

As to Kolb, I believe that he has something left. A guy doesn’t go from all-star (even from Mil) one year to totally incapable the next. However, he’ll never be effective in ATL. A pitcher has to have the mental side as well as the physical side and Kolb’s cranium is toast with ATL. As for bringing him back, he’s arbitration eligible but shouldn’t expect much there. He could be signed for trade, but who would give much for him? He most likely will be non-tendered and will resurface somewhere else. JS’s mistakes don’t hang around long - remember Albie?

By Steve

November 30, 2005 10:53 AM | Link to this

I agree with Braves fan. Garciaparra makes sense to me, as he could hit fifth in the order, and if he gets hurt, they still have Betemit or Marte. I’m still not sure that they can count on Langerhans every day. You would probably have to hit him second in the order behind Giles if Furcal leaves. I think they should go for Garciaparra and Hoffman, and get what they need for the eighth inning with whatever is left over in the market. As for Zito, he might be the one guy I’d be willing to trade a top prospect for and I would do it if it were possible. Also, I haven’t heard much on Burnett for a while, could the Braves be interested in him and not mention it to anybody? (As they often do) I’m not too crazy about adding him, but I was just wondering.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 10:55 AM | Link to this

Carroll, I can almost bet you that Reitsma isn’t going anywhere. Bobby likes him and seemed cnvinced that he actually pitched well in the playoffs last year. While I’ll give him the fact that some of his problems were not of his doing, for the most part he sucked in the playoffs. We definitely have some dead weight on the pitching staff that needs to be disposed of.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:01 AM | Link to this

Carroll: I like Boyer - alot - but I’m concerned about his shoulder. He went down late this year due to fatigue. Did he really throw that many innings? I like his stuff - again, alot - but I am concerned about his physical viability. As to Devine, I believe he is the future at closer, but not the present. He is a college guy, so he’s a little older than the other rooks, but is he ready? I’d prefer a veteran guy for the short term while Joey grows into the spot. I’m still all for giving Hoffy a deal, but I don’t want to further cripple the rest of the payroll, either. I really like McBride and believe he’ll have an impact on the ‘pen in 2006. Lerew and James in 2006 could be the Boyer and McBride of 2005. I’ve gotta check out Eischen and Grimsley…

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 11:07 AM | Link to this

Braves fan: The blog wasn’t “out of step” with MY story, it was just written 12 hours earlier. As I said in an updated post in the afternoon/early evening, I made other calls and found out Braves were “far, far” from getting Furcal back. I couldn’t post all the information in the blog that I was writing for the story at that very time _ that’s not the function of the blog, to break news. Sorry.

Couple other things: Glad a voice of reason pointed out the huge amount of time Nomar has missed due to injuries last few years. I just don’t understand the obsession with him, gotta tell ya. He’s a shell of the shortstop he was 4-5 years ago, barely even serviceable now at the position, relative to others.

I think Todd Jones, Baez or possibly even Trevor (though a longer shot than others) could be answer for Braves, and I agree they have to get a proven closer after last year’s disaster with Kolb, which left the Braves scrambling for most of the season to jigger their bullpen and fill roles.

Can’t let one really tasteless blog post pass without commenting on it, a post about Furcal from Joe Roman.

Sir, please don’t lump others in with your “those of us with more brains than talent have to scratch our heads.” You call Furcal “semi-literate” when all you have to go on is the interviews he does in English, his second language. How would you come across if someone had you do interviews with Spanish media in Spanish? Just curious. He’s a bright guy; sorry to disappoint you.

“Lure of big money” must be tempting. Well, yeah. If someone offered you, say, a three- or four-year contract, and someone else offered five, and it was worth $10 mill more guaranteed (just hypothetical) than the first, you’re telling me you wouldn’t take it? If he goes to the Cubs, it’s not like he’s going to play in Kansas City. He’s going to a place to play in front of packed crowds every night, a place that has a Gold Glove 1B and plenty of other pieces in place to make a run.

And if you’re 28, with a surgically repaired shoulder and various other aches and pains, and there’s no guarantee this isn’t your last big contract, and you come from dirt-poor upbringings, then yeah, maybe an extra $10 mill to help the next few generations of your family does mean something. And remember, Bobby Cox and Andruw Jones might not be here for more than another couple years, and they’re the two biggest reasons Furcal feels a pull to the Braves.

He doesn’t owe the Braves anything. He came out and played hurt this season and put up strong numbers to help them win the division. If the Braves wanted to dump him after the DUI, don’t you think they would’ve if Furcal wasn’t such a valuable part of their team? They didn’t keep him out of sympathy.

I would suggest that he’s not “too dumb” to know any difference. You’re just too passionate about the Braves to look at it rationally.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:08 AM | Link to this

I say get Hoffman to close and have Devine be the setup man. Trade Kolb to whomever will take him.

By snowball

November 30, 2005 11:09 AM | Link to this

To Voicy: Gee, you’re exactly why I stopped blogging almost two months ago. Looks like I made a mistake returning.

See ya.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:18 AM | Link to this

DOB, I totally agree. I don’t think the Braves have to match the Cubs offer to retain Furcal but just come close. But, I just don’t think they can do it. THat bullpen has to be fixed. The Mets and the Phillies are going to be stronger and we can’t always count on the good teams choking like in past years.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:19 AM | Link to this

As to Reitsma, his problems in both 2004 and 2005 came after making a ton of appearances - 84 in 2004 and 76 in 2005. That’s not an excuse, it’s a fact. He simply flamed out in both seasons. If you stabelize the ‘pen and reduce his appearances, he’s an effective pitcher. Remember, there was nobody, and I mean nobody (Foster? Bernero?), else in the pen early last year when all the starters went down. Give Reitsma his due… he was the NL Rolaids Relief Man of the Month for July when he went 8/8 in saves with a 1.17 ERA. I don’t criticize BC for much, but he has way overused Reitsma. With a real closer, everybody else has a defined role. Perhaps then Reitsma can be properly used and not abused.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:22 AM | Link to this

Gee, snowy, a little sensitive? Was it that I hurt your feewings, or disagreed with your arguement? Grow up…

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:23 AM | Link to this

Voice, you have a point. Since Reitsma isn’t going anywhere, I think he could be used in the 7th inning and if we have a real closer then his appearances would be greatly reduced.

By Get Real

November 30, 2005 11:23 AM | Link to this

Joe: I think it’s great that you speak your mind. Don’t be bullied by the p.c. crowd and jock-sniffers like DOB. Poor Furcal….over here making millions off of us and our english-speaking culture. I guess it’s too much to ask for him to learn our language and assimilate into our culture (i.e. don’t drive drunk) after 8 or 9 freakin years here!! And we wonder why there’s an immigration crisis in this country? You can thank the p.c. crowd who try and keep people from speaking the cold, hard truth, and acting accordingly.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 11:28 AM | Link to this

I never even heard of a “snowball” before today, and I’ve been blogging for quite some time. Raisins is one of the better bloggers I have had the pleasure of dealing with up on here.

Raisins: I see what you’re saying with Reeksma, but I for one don’t trust that BC won’t continue to overuse him. Remember how he always went to Greg McMichael even though we ALL knew he’d blow it…Brad Cloontz, etc,etc. Hell, just look at how McBride rotted away in the pen in the playoffs while Reeksma and Foster continuously blew games for us. It’s almost like a narcotic….if the stuff is nearby, he’s going to keep doing it…..we need to get Reeksma away from Booby…for the good of both Reeksma and the Braves.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:29 AM | Link to this

Get real, you’re joking, right. What do you mean assimilate into our culture? What people in this country don’t drink and drive everyday? With all due respect that is just stupid. Furcal does his interviews in English. It may not be great English, but I have news for you. A whole lot of English speaking people cannot speak English properly. I’m not saying Furcal should be felt sorry for but his “love of drinking” is quite American don’t you think? If not, go into any bar on a Friday and Saturday night and tell me what you see pepole doing.

By Pocahorner

November 30, 2005 11:30 AM | Link to this

Two weeks off this blog and nothing’s changed. Normar, Ichiro, Babe Ruth, blah blah blah. Glad to see VOR and Carroll still fighting the good fight and posting realisitc opinions.

MLB.com reports that Farnsworth will ink a three-year contract worth $15-17 million with the Yankees to be Mario’s set up man. Good luck with the NY press Farnsy when you blow a three run lead in the 8th!

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:34 AM | Link to this

Farnsworth signing as Rivera’s setup man is great news! I think the Red Sox are already putting the champagne on ice for their A.L. East divison crown.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:36 AM | Link to this

Carroll: Thanks for the props… the beautiful thing about this blog is that you can disagree and discuss without blowing people off. A perfect example is Reitsma, whom I still believe in. I, however, respect your opinion and even have to give your point some serious thought. BC shows some strange tendencies toward some of his players - remember Keith Lockhart? He used to trot that guy out there with a runner on second, and Lock would pop up to deep 2nd every time… used to drive me CRAZY!

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:40 AM | Link to this

The Farns is in no way worth $6M/yr. I wish him luck, though, as long as it isn’t against the Braves. I hope he realizes the hornet’s nest he’s getting into. I’m kinda surprised he’s going somewhere to set-up when alot of folks want him as a closer… I guess $$$ talks.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:40 AM | Link to this

Nothing wrong with good healthy disagreement as long as it is based in intelligence and not stupid ignorant comments. For the most part that is what goes on here.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:43 AM | Link to this

If the Farns gets 3 yrs. at $15-17M, what will Hoffy get?

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:48 AM | Link to this

Hoffman’s price may not go up because everyone knows the Yankees way over pay for average players. I’m not saying Farnsworth is average but he is not in Hoffman’s class. The Yankees kill me with the way they do things. Have they not yet learned that giving overrated or over the hill players a lot of money does not make them play better.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 11:49 AM | Link to this

Raisins: hell yes I remember Locksy. At one time, he was a quality utility player. But you’re right….at the end, he had such a propensity to pop that damned ball up to the right side. I also remember that 100 inning playoff marathon against the Mets in 99…he came through with a key hit but when he tried to score on a subsequent hit, he was so slow getting to the plate and was thrown out from here to you.

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 11:50 AM | Link to this

Robert, I was thinking exactly the same thing as you when I read that remarkable comment about assimilating into “our culture” by not drinking. If he was serious with that comment, you just shake your head and move on.

And by the way, the culture inside a baseball clubhouse is a bit different than the culture our blogging friend here is used to. Spanish conversations are as prevalent as English, for obvious reasons.

Love that jock-sniffer line. Original. Yeah, I really feel like a jock-sniffer. Guess it could be a lot worse. Could be accused of being, oh, a bigot.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:54 AM | Link to this

DOB, I am just always amazed at how people can make the dumbest comments.

By Curveball

November 30, 2005 11:54 AM | Link to this

It’s beginning to look like the “restructuring” of Chipper Jones contract to “free up” payroll could also be called “Hoodwinked and Bamboozled you backwoods southern rube!”—-All the premium closers and setup men on free agency are being signed by other teams—Farnsworth is going to Yankees, Furcal to Mets, B.J. Ryan and Wagner already gone…Can’t the Braves afford anyone?…Schuerholz!…Do “something”!!…It’s gettin’ boring…

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 11:55 AM | Link to this

Oh, and just to illustrate: As I’m writing blog response, I’m listening to a popular local sports-talk host use the sounds of a six-pack of beer being poured into glasses, a regular commercially endorsed feature on his daily show. At 11:45 a.m.

But somebody needs to get Furcal to assimilate into U.S. culture by not drinking and driving.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:56 AM | Link to this

DOB is no Stuart Scott. That problem with “booyah“‘s eye occured when Ray Lucas stopped too quick and Stu went two shoulders deep. DOB, thanks for your objective info. I, for one of many, appreciate your reports.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 11:56 AM | Link to this

Good point, Curverball. Why is Chipper restructuring his contract if the money he is giving up not going to be used to sing free agents?

By Get Real

November 30, 2005 12:01 PM | Link to this

Okay I get it now….even though the vast, vast majority of Americans don’t drink and drive, it’s okay for Furcal to do it because of that tiny segment of Americans that do. Gotcha!

And if he wants to speak spanish with his friends, fine. But when you do a televised interview and can’t string a sentence together, I’m sorry but that makes you look stupid! Most kids are able to speak decent english after what, 3-5 years? This guys been here for a decade and can’t do it yet? That’s either stupid or a complete lack of respect for the culture that’s made him a millionaire!

Oh and I also just learned from a jock-sniffer that I’m a biggot because I expect someone to learn the language and assimilate into our culture. Wow! I’m just terrible! Guess that’s still better than being simple-minded and calling someone a biggot just because they dare to speak the truth!

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 12:06 PM | Link to this

Raisins: LOL! For real…what happened to his eye? I almost can’t watch him anymore because I find myself focusing on that thing. Poor guy!

By RRR

November 30, 2005 12:10 PM | Link to this

Some of you may like to bring up the Mets past mistakes, but this is NOT your fathers Mets making decisions now. This is NOT Vaughn, Alomar, et all we are talking about here, this is an in his prime Delgado, and a Wagner who is younger than Hoffman people. The Mets ARE moving on up, whether we like to believe it or not. We do need to do something, and JS knows it. What that will be? Well…good question. My opinions are thus: Furcal (although I always liked him) has never reached the potential we all thought he had, unless you count ONLY the second half of last season. For that reason: he is not worth the the Cubbies are going to pay him. He is out of here, for many of the reasons DOB pointed out this morning. I like Giles, and I think he has lived up to expectations and his numbers prove it (look them up,btw). He is staying. First base needs to be addressed, and the sooner the better. the o/f is fine just as it is (and no, Kelly Johnson is NOT a good defensive outfielder: trade him). I like the “mantra” mentioned earlier by VOR: proven closer. WE NEED A BULLPEN people. It was our downfall last year, and WILL BE AGAIN unless something is done about it. Let’s hope that JS pulls off a better “surprise” this year than he did last year. Go BRAVES!

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 12:12 PM | Link to this

Don’t worry , fellas, JS flies under the radar until his deals are done. We had the same anxiety last year when the typical fast and furious spenders did their thing early, while the majority of deals waited until the winter meetings. Did anybody see the Hudson thing coming? NYM and NYY annually start early while most teams wait for the bar to be set. Seems the Jays decided to set the bar this year, and set it they did - ridiculously high. Ryan has one good season and gets $10M/yr? Chicago has overpaid for Howry and whatshisname and now seems poised to overpay for RF. Hey, I fully believe in capitalism and think that anyone is worth what somebody else is willing to pay… but that doesn’t mean what they are willing to pay isn’t too much.

By SpecialEd

November 30, 2005 12:14 PM | Link to this

2 things here: DOB didn’t seem to get very upset at being called “jock sniffer” —-and don’t judge Furcal’s skill with the English language ‘until’ you have heard him speak it while “sober”…

By RRR

November 30, 2005 12:21 PM | Link to this

VOR: glad you mentioned a few examples of one year wonders (that would include Kolb, btw) getting big contracts. I see Todd Jones as just exactly that. You need to prove it over several years. He should not be paid too much due to the volatility of the market.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 12:22 PM | Link to this

Get Real, I’m not saying that he should not learn English nor am I saying that he should get off about the DUI. However, you are the one who said he should assimilate into our culture. Looks to me that he did. We make money off of other countries. Should we learn their language. If you don’t like Dominican players then fine. Just use logic in your arguments. I know a lot of Hispanics that speak better English than Americans do. At least people from another country have an exucse.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 12:27 PM | Link to this

RRR; I respectfully have to disagree on part of your blog. Delgado is getting a little long in the tooth, and may himself be affected by the NY environment. But, maybe not… obviously we all have to watch to find out. My point is simply that the track record isn’t there to support the moves prior to actually seeing them pan out. I don’t think anyone expected an average year out of Beltran, but that’s what NYM got. That being said, they seemingly have made improvements and JS does have some work to do. Also, I was referring to Lang’s defense in left, not KJ. I think this is the make or break year for Roach at 1B. He shows tremendous potential but is still prone to prolonged slumps. (And my eyes are still burning by the image of him loping around 3rd toward home in Houston…) Someone earlier noted that Salty might be moved to 1B given BM’s emergence at catcher. I would certainly support that. (Did I really say BM’s emergence?) Proven closer… proven closer… proven closer…

By RRR

November 30, 2005 12:32 PM | Link to this

VOR: I know you meant Langs, my opinion of KJ was directed to know one in particular. I watched him fumble more chances in lf then Manny. He truly looks uncomfortable out there. Interesting that about Salty. As long as we are considering that, why not Marte at 1b, too? Unless he is nothing more than trade bait now.

The Pen…The Pen…The Pen… ;)

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 12:33 PM | Link to this

Raisins: couldn’t agree more about the Mets. For instance, anyone who has enough money can go out and buy a nice, brand new car. But it’s the smart, frugal shoppers who make smart moves and get the most for their money. It’s a lot more fun and gratifying to me for the Braves to be the Clark Howards of baseball, rather than the Donald Trumps. It forces the Braves to make smart moves and groom youngsters rather than just being whores for overrated, over the hill talent like the Beltrans and Mo Vaugns of the world.

By Stephen

November 30, 2005 12:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, if the braves lost Furcal to anyone of those teams. Do you think they would move Betemit to ss to free up money for a big name?

P.S. It’s about time the braves drop the dead weight of off the team i.e Julio Franco, Eddie Perez. Laroche is a very decent first baseman, and if he wasn’t sharing time with Julio Franco he would be driving in 25+/100+. Also, If Johnny Estrada does get traded, which I think he needs to be… I think Brian Pena would make a great catcher, seeing that he would have a small salary for the first few years. I mean if he could produce the same numbers he did in the minors he would be alot more valuable then Estrada..

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 12:40 PM | Link to this

Pena was horrible in his stints with the big club last year. But I still think he makes a fine option for a backup cathcer behind mccann.

By RRR

November 30, 2005 12:42 PM | Link to this

True Carroll, I can’t stand the Mets or Yankees either. They do make a mockery of baseball, and something, (ala salary cap) really needs to be done about it. BUT: this is Delgado and Wagner we are taling about, not those aforementioned “over the hill” talents. btw: Delgado is the same age as Chipper: 33 years old. He IS in his prime, and getting better. The only question remaining about him now is how he will adjust to NYC. Farnsworth? He was fine in Chi town, was he not? He will perform at his current level (which is avg at best) in NYC as well. Beltran? Another half year wonder who cashed in. Sorry, but he did perform up to his level in NY. But, Delgado is no Beltran.

By Stephen

November 30, 2005 12:44 PM | Link to this

Thats kinda sorta what I meant…I mean with the incedent with Erstad back in the beginning of the season, I believe that was a career ender for Johnny. He hasn’t looked the same that whole time. Pena would atleast be a better backup to Mccann then Estrada would be.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 12:48 PM | Link to this

JS had an opportunity to move Marte to 1B or OF last year, yet chose to leave him at 3B. This tells me that with Chipper entrenched at 3B for 3-4 more years, and with 3B a premium need for alot of teams, Marte’s trade bait. I hate losing his HR potential, but Eric Campbell and his impressive game are only about 3-4 years away… hmmm… coincidence? The Braves have a nice stockpile of trade pieces in their bag going into this year’s winter meetings…. 3B, catcher, young pitching… It ought to be fun!

By Booger

November 30, 2005 12:51 PM | Link to this

Maybe English is Chipper’s second language?

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 01:00 PM | Link to this

From 1999-2003, Delgado avg’d 40HR/148RBI; from 2004-2005, 33HR/107RBI. He is past his prime, just as Chipper is past his prime. That being said, I’ll keep Chipper, and 33HR/107RBI would be nice from 1B on the Braves.

By SpecialEd

November 30, 2005 01:11 PM | Link to this

Boooger…I tink yhou maa be richt mang!…

By LeTwan Anthony

November 30, 2005 01:15 PM | Link to this

Milwaukee just lost Santana. Think they’d like to have Kolb back? Does he have any trade value if the Braves sign him again?

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 01:21 PM | Link to this

Kolb’s does have some trade value, but it’s minimal. Interesting scenario… do you resign him on the cheap (since he essentially has no leverage,) and try to get something for him or do you just let him walk? Somehow using “Kolb” and “walk” in the same thought is eerily easy.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 01:21 PM | Link to this

Kolb would have some value because everyone needs relief pitching.

By Eric

November 30, 2005 01:22 PM | Link to this

DAVE OBRIEN—What do you think the chances are that we could get Zito or Vazquez if we fail to sign Furcal?

By Tomahawkin

November 30, 2005 01:29 PM | Link to this

What it is Carroll? In response to Ur comment below

“And what are they going to do with that Bozo Reeksma? God help me if I have to go through another year of watching that clown blow games for us! Hell, as much as we lampoon Kolb up on here, Reeksma had even more blown saves! I thought we were close to giving him to the Rocks but I guess that fell through.”

I’m still wondering why he is still on the roster as well… I lost love 4 him when he blew that game 5 against Houston in 2004, let alone what he did last year

Hey D.O.B What happened yesterday, U posted in the early hours but we didn’t hear from ya all night… I hope It was because You were as sick as I was that The Farns is on his way to sellin out to WhineBrenner and his crew… Gawd I Hope U prove me wrong…

By Jack

November 30, 2005 01:31 PM | Link to this

Can the Braves continue to win with a payroll equal to ARod and Jeter?

By LeTwan Anthony

November 30, 2005 01:35 PM | Link to this

Farnsworth wasn’t all that high on our lists until others got interested. Too bad he goes after 26 games and we also lost Colon and Miner. Interesting that the Cubs, Tigers, and Braves chose to look elsewhere. Maybe there’s a reason.

By Tomahawkin

November 30, 2005 01:37 PM | Link to this

Carroll While we’re Downing the Mutts, Does anybody other than me think they play in the trashiest, stadium in all of sports… Those orange seats in that bowl was so 1970’s

By LeTwan Anthony

November 30, 2005 01:43 PM | Link to this

Raisins, Mama fixed a fine Thanksgiving meal. Do you happen to know what a giblet is? If Kolb’s sinker had worked would he have been a suitable closer? Can former sinkerball pitcher McDowell get him straightened out? Would anyone here like to see him come in again in the 9th inning? LeTwan says, no. Fix him if you can and trade him. Get something back. Once the season gets started there will be more teams that need help.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 01:46 PM | Link to this

I’m concerned that we are not desperately addressing our pitching needs. Does this orginization still care about winning?

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 01:46 PM | Link to this

Reports are saying that Konerko and the ChiSox have agreed on a 5 year deal…

By JK

November 30, 2005 01:50 PM | Link to this

I think you will start to hear some things next week after they now for sure Furcal is gone. The Zito thing would be interesting, but the A’s would want a power RH bat, so would take more than Marte. Vasquez is over rated, let Baltimore overpay for him. Baez/Lugo/Gathwright for Marte and some pitching would be great.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 01:51 PM | Link to this

LaTwan, its time for a Chipper story.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 01:52 PM | Link to this

LT: I think your right in regard to the Farns. Given his ties to ATL and the Braves desperate need for a closer, that’s the type of deal that should’ve/would’ve already been done if there was true mutual interest. As to Kolb, see my previous post about Kolb’s cranium. RJITB: I heard a Braves exec. recently state that the Braves were committed to getting back to the formula of their 90’s success, that being pitching and defense. Don’t be surprised if pitching is the only area that JS seriously addresses before spring.

By Tomahawkin

November 30, 2005 01:53 PM | Link to this

Robert if U hadn’t noticed since 2000 AOL/TW Stopped caring about this team when they took over, then they stopped caring about its fans by messing up TBS, I smell a fire sale when the Division Reign ends

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 01:56 PM | Link to this

I’d just as soon have WB as to Lugo… the jury is still out on Gathright, who by the way blows as a leadoff hitter according to his stats. However, Baez would fit nicely…

By LeTwan Anthony

November 30, 2005 01:56 PM | Link to this

Robert, everybody’s getting stronger. Except for the Marlins, of course … and so far, the Braves. LeTwan can forgive losing Furcal and can forgive messing up earlier with Kolb. LeTwan cannot forgive going into next season without a real closer. Not sure if Farnsworth is it - but certain Kolb is not it. Hoffman could make things look a lot better until the young guys are ready. We’ll probably all be surprised what happens at the winter meetings. One thing, the best relievers are getting signed by somebody else and the market price is going up. A less capable reliever is gonna cost a lot now.

By CubsFan Forever

November 30, 2005 01:56 PM | Link to this

Farnsworth was let go by the Cubs because he didn’t have the mental capacity to pitch in big games. Given this, how can he be a consistently successful closer? He did make a pretty dad gum good Linebacker though!

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 01:57 PM | Link to this

I say if you’re not committed to winning, then do the sale now. Get rid of Chipper, Smoltz, and Andurw while they have value. Strip the team and let the kids play like the Indiana did.

By Tomahawkin

November 30, 2005 02:01 PM | Link to this

Yea At Least The Farns Has Fire in Him unlike the other 80% of the roster…. That was a good Brawl with him and Adam Dunn

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 02:05 PM | Link to this

Konerko back to ChiSox, 5yrs/$60-65M.

By LeTwan Anthony

November 30, 2005 02:06 PM | Link to this

Robert, LeTwan has a Chipper story ready to go but LeTwan understands others frown on them some. LeTwan wonders if it is a baseball-player story is it alright?

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 02:19 PM | Link to this

THat would be fine, LT

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 02:20 PM | Link to this

LT: I think they started shutting down the blogs because of our feuds with RR and the Chipper jokes.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 02:21 PM | Link to this

Well, people need to lighten up. Chipper is one of my favorite (if not favorite) player and I think the stories are funny. Some of these people need to get over themselves.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 02:24 PM | Link to this

What about taking a JD Drew chance on Frank Thomas? If we can get him on the cheap to split time with Roachie, would that be a good signing? The ChiSox certainly won’t need 3 firstbasemen/Dh right? If that sounds crazy, please don’t be mean…just thinking out loud :)~

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 02:27 PM | Link to this

Robert: very good to hear you say that! It seemed you were being a little too serious about the furcal thing earlier…glad to know you have a sense of humor. It’s just like with the Falcoons….apparently if you dare criticize Mike Vick for anything, you’re a racist. It would be nice if there were more open-minded people who could enjoy a good discussion or a joke as the case may be.

By BB FAN

November 30, 2005 02:28 PM | Link to this

I agree that WB should play SS next year. The kid deserves a chance to play everyday. When WB was playing everyday last year (When CJ was injured), he hit better than when he was coming off the bench. Let him hit lead off. He won’t steal bases, but he had a better OBP than Furcal.

The money saved from Furcal and CJ should be spent almost exclusively on the bullpen. Hoffman would not be bad if he accepted a 2 year $15 million deal.

About Nomar. He has been injured a lot the last 3 out of 4 years. However, if he accepted might be worth it. However, I would not play him at SS everyday. (As I said, WB would be at SS) But Nomar might be very valuable playing multiple positions. He could play 3B, 1B, SS, and maybe LF. He has played 143 games the last 2 years combined, accumulating 551 at bats with a .298 AVG, 18 HRs, 71 RBIs, 80 runs and 32 2Bs. And he played injured the whole time. Imagine if he was healthy, he could be a steal. In August and Sept last year, he hit: .318, 9 HRs, 26 RBIs, 11 2Bs with a .531 SLG in 179 at bats. He seems to be healthy.

By BB FAN

November 30, 2005 02:31 PM | Link to this

It was supposed to be: “About Nomar. He has been injured a lot the last 3 out of 4 years. However, if he accepted a contrct based on incentives, he might be worth it.”

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 02:43 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I can laugh at anything. I know when something is a joke and when something is mean spirited. The Chipper jokes are funny. People are too serious. Criticizing Mike Vick is not racist. If you attack his race or heritage, then it is racist.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 02:48 PM | Link to this

On the subject of 1B, the D’Backs resigned Tony Clark (.304/30HR/87RBI) for 2 more years, but also have youngster Chad Tracy (.308/27/72). Tracy plays 1B or RF, where the Snakes are committed to Shawn Green. The Snakes also desperately need catching. For the sake of discussion: Given their glut at 1B, could a bona-fide catcher (Estrada) pry away Tracy?

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 02:55 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t count on them getting rid of Tracy. I don’t know why they signed Clark for 2 years but the chances of him repeating last year are not good. We’d have a better shot at getting Shawn Green.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 02:59 PM | Link to this

RJITB: Agreed. Again, for the sake of discussion, what about Tony Clark to pair with Roachy instead of Julio (who I believe is gone)?

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 03:04 PM | Link to this

VOR, that could work. Clark, if used in limited amouts, could be very effective.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 03:08 PM | Link to this

We’ve gotta stop judgin people based on one good year (i.e. Tony Clark, Julio Lugo, Raffy Furcal, etc). Tony Clark is the same player who in the previous years postseason was so bad that Rubin Sierra said something to the effect that, Tony Clark is a beautiful man but couldn’t hit the ball if his life depended on it.

By Lew Hartman

November 30, 2005 03:13 PM | Link to this

All I can say is so much for league wide fiscal responsibility. There’s no need to play 2006, or even finish the Winter Meetings. The Braves fans have given up and the Mets fans just know they’ve already won it all. Haven’t any of you realized after 15 years that John Scheurholz much less the fat lady have even begun warming up?

By Kevin

November 30, 2005 03:15 PM | Link to this

Lets take the money we are going to have IF Furcal signs with the Cubs and use it on improving the club overall. Another starting pitcher and bullpen help would be number one area of priority. The bench needs up grading, blending veterans with young players. Hoffman is going to be expensive, Jones would be affordable but to win in the playoffs you need a strong bullpen and hitters who make contact. Farnsworth will implode in New York but the Yankees and Mets can try and outspend their mistakes, the Braves now can not. As for Kolb, I simply believe that he will not be offered a contract and will be free to sign with anyone else. Or maybe you bring him back and let him work with Roger and see if he can improve, look Kolb can throw hard, but he made his living by being a ground ball pitcher in Milwaukee. Personally I believe that he is better suited for a less stressful environment. Saving for the Brewers is a lot different than being in a pennant race every year. What about having a closer by committee next year? Devine, Boyer, Jones(?) James—can he become our Wagner? Let the Mets make the headlines now, Omar is like the Yankees of the 1980’s, best team on paper but they have to win on the field, we will be okay and our farm system will keep up in contention for the next few years.

By Jon Brewer

November 30, 2005 03:33 PM | Link to this

If Furcal leaves, trade for Lugo and if he has “Kolb syndrome” then make a change to Betemet after a couple of months. I did research on Lugo’s stats and he’s really not that bad. Of course Furcal would be better, but Lugo’s not a bad second option. Lugo also will be a free agent after this year, therefore, enabling us to look at the future (Betemet, Escobar, Pena) It gives them another year to mature, although I think Betemet is ready. Next thing that needs to be fixed would def be the closer situation. This is a very important need for the Braves and I would like to see us fork out money for this. Hoffman is my go to guy here for 2 years with an option on the 3rd. This fixes two problems…Proven dominant closer and buys you time to groom Boyer and/or Devine. One of these guys will step up and take it within 3 years. Not to mention the veteran leadership Hoffman would have on the young guys. Everything else stays the same other than giving Langerhans and Roachy the full-time jobs (AB vs LHP’S)

By Jason

November 30, 2005 03:51 PM | Link to this

Furcal will be gone. Farnsworth will be gone. Leo is gone. Tommy has been gone. What’s next? Who’s next? The simple fact that two Braves players RESTRUCTURED their own contracts to help the Braves keep raffy on the team - should be reason enough for him to STAY PUT. Raffy - If you are true to baseball, and not the business of baseball, then you know all about what LOYALTY to your team means. FORGET the business part. You want to be traded to the Cubs - good luck making the playoffs! The problem is the fact that the Braves are owned by AOL. They do not care about winning. They care about the BOTTOM LINE. Being owned by such a corporation…wait, excuse me…”corporation” is not only degrading to our team, it is degrading to the city of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, to the South, and to Braves fans around the world. Frankly, being owned by AOL is great if you WORK for the Braves - they pay their staff WELL. They can afford a multimillion dollar screen, but they can’t afford to keep Raffy. That is sad. Remember in the last MLB strike when fans put paper bags on their heads? I feel like doing that. Where has team loyalty gone? Are Smoltz and Bobby going to be the only ones loyal to this team?

The Braves need to be bought by Atlanta Spirit - the same guys that own the Hawks and Thrashers. Then, maybe then, we won’t have to forgo our best players because we can’t afford them. The Yankees sure as hell don’t do that - and the Braves should be the Yankees of the NL. No excuses - no spared expense - yet our excuse remains AOL!!!!

By Brandon

November 30, 2005 03:53 PM | Link to this

I read in a paper in Tampa that the braves are trying to make a deal for Julio Lugo and Joey gaithright for kelly johnson, kyle davies and wilson betimet…does this have any validity???? and also, if the braves said anything about the first base situation????

By Dan

November 30, 2005 04:02 PM | Link to this

A couple of points Jason, The Braves are all set to pay Raffy what he is worth and no more (In every regularly measured statistical category, offense and defense Giles is ranked higher among 2B than furcal among ss) One reason the Braves have been so successful is because they don’t overpay, any rational examination Glavine for instance clearly supports the Braves decision. Second you complain about AOL and the bottom line???? You would rather have an owner like the HAWKS?!?!?!?!?! Yeah that has been working well You my friend are the official carrier of Sports anti-knowledge

By Lew Hartman

November 30, 2005 04:08 PM | Link to this

Brandon, I doubt the Braves will give up all three or a combination including Betemit and Davies for a player who has one year left until free agency. I especially doubt Davies is even on the block at all. If I’m wrong, remind me later, but I doubt the deal will be what you mentioned.

By RICK L.

November 30, 2005 04:08 PM | Link to this

HELLO TO ALL MY LOYAL BRAVES FANS. I KNOW WE ARE ALL GETING ANSEY TO FIND OUT WHAT FURCAL WILL DO AND WHAT DOES JS HAVE UP HIS SLEEVE, I JUST HPOE IT’S A GOOD ONE THAT BURSTS THE METS BUBBLE. I AM INTERESTED TO KNOW IF ANYONE AGREES WITH ME ON BRINING BACK CHRIS HAMMONDS, AND MILLWOOD WE STILL NEED PITCHING DON’T WE. JUST A SUGESTION

By BB FAN

November 30, 2005 04:08 PM | Link to this

Brandon, I hope that is wrong. Julio Lugo and Joey Gathright for K. Johnson, Davies and Betemit is not a good deal. Gathright can not hit leadoff and is not worth trading for. He has a horrible OBP. And Lugo is not that much better than Betemit. If that trade does happen then TB will have ripped the Mets and the Braevs off in the last few years. They got Kazmir for V Zambrano a few years ago.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 04:09 PM | Link to this

The Braves think LaRoche is the present and the future, so I don’t really foresee any change at 1st.

By BB FAN

November 30, 2005 04:12 PM | Link to this

Dan, I think what Jason meant was the fact that the Hawks were willing to spend money. JS would still be making the roster moves. It’s just that he would have more money to spend.

By nolan

November 30, 2005 04:12 PM | Link to this

We need someone to hit leadoff that will fill comfortable in atlanta, so we dont have to wait for him to get used to playing here.

Nomar is a good fit if he can stay healthy. We don’t have to have a lead-off man as fast as furcal. We can sacrafice a little speed for OBP. We should get Nomar for around five Million, and use Wilson as a backup plan. Then we have trade bait to use before the deadline in 06. Let the G Tech man lead-off in the ATL.

Then we need to get a closer.  Hoffman is the best choice right now. Offer him 6 or 7 for 2 or 3 years. Let Hoffman break tht saves record in Atlanta.

Then we need bullpen. JS should use Estrada, Thompson, Marte, and Kelly J to get some veterans in the pen. If that does’nt work. Trade them for Zito or an established veteran…..Vasquez. Then start signing some free agent bullpin. I should take teh job in Bean Town!!

By Lew Hartman

November 30, 2005 04:19 PM | Link to this

I’ve suggested before, but been called insane-let Ryan Langerhans have a shot at leadoff. In the month of September he was slashing the ball to the power alleys. He has good speed and is an excellent defensive outfielder. Let Betemit play short. He is solid defensively and hit .305. Then take all of the money we saved on Furcal, from dumping Kolb, from Chipper’s renegotiation and Hampton’s insurance and buy a closer, another starter and bullpen help. The Mets have improved their team, but still have very suspect starting pitching. We can take out anyone if we have the best pitching staf.. We have proven this year after year.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 04:23 PM | Link to this

I think letting Langerhans hit leadoff may not be a bad idea. The Yankees have Jeter hit leadoff most of the time and he is not a leadoff hitter, but it has worked out.

By Fabrizio Di Muro

November 30, 2005 04:26 PM | Link to this

5 years, and $53M.

The Braves are going to have to come close to an offer of this sort. That’s what Raffy will get on the market, given his age, statistics, who is bidding, and recent contracts for shortstops.

Can the Braves come close to this offer? I believe so.

Are the Braves willing to come close to this offer?

I tried to project payroll, and given the restructuring of Chipper’s contract, the Braves should have the money to pay Rafael Furcal 9 or 10 million, at least next year.

Also, they should throw 6 or 7 million at Trevor Hoffman. He’d be a good addition.

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 04:30 PM | Link to this

The Tampa rumor of Davies/Betemit/Johnson for Lugo/Gaithright makes some sense, though haven’t had it confirmed by anyone yet. I’d think Braves would try to get Baez involved in any multi-player deal with D-Rays, and that three-player package sounds a bit steep for just Lugo and Gaithright.

Amazing where the price of relievers has gone in two weeks. Do you guys realize Cubs just forked over about $8 mill combined per year in in three-year deals for two non-closers? Wow. That’s steep. While Braves should _ and have _ tried to re-sign Farnsworth at reasonable price, $5 mill per year in multi-year deal is awful steep for a guy who’s closed for a total of three months and hasn’t exactly excelled in pressure situations otherwise, with the Cubs or Braves.

Baez or Todd Jones are very reasonably priced options, though Braves would probably want to be sure they could re-sign Baez before they gave up much in a deal for him with only one year left under contract.

Oh, and there’s one “g” in bigot, not two. At least in English.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 04:38 PM | Link to this

That’s good, DOB. I was accused of being a bit too serious about the Furcal comment earlier. I don’t mind jokes even if they are very un-pc. My problem comes when you viciously attack someone because of what they are instead of who they are. Clothes, cars, women, and booze. I think Furcal has become quite assimilated into our culture. Everyone accuses athletes of over indulgence but people in general are. Maybe Furcal will become truly assimilated when he can’t name the vice president of the country or throws a hissy fit because he wanted a double cheeseburger without pickles and there was ONE pickle on his burger.

By Get Real

November 30, 2005 04:46 PM | Link to this

DOB: Nice try, wiseass. Problem is, we don’t have the opportunity to go back and edit our posts like you do. And I seem to remember you getting your panties in a bunch when someone called you out on your boneheaded spelling and grammar errors. But I guess I, a mere blogger, should be held to a higher standard than the paid, so-called journalist, right? What a joke. Just stick to jock sniffing already.

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 04:47 PM | Link to this

Get real, for what is worth, I don’t think you’re a racist.

By RRR

November 30, 2005 04:51 PM | Link to this

Get Real= Get Lost….

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 04:55 PM | Link to this

GR: What are you trying to prove? Is there any substance to your posts, or are you only here to attack DOB?

By Robert (Justice is the best)

November 30, 2005 04:56 PM | Link to this

For anyone who thinks the Mets are the favorites in the N.L. East, just remember that these are the Mets and they will find a way to screw it up.

By RRR

November 30, 2005 05:03 PM | Link to this

I still must remind you all about Jones. He’s around 38 years old, has 226 career saves and 60 blown saves. Other than his two good years, last year being his best overall, he is not that good. So: was last year enough to warrant giving him the closers job?

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 05:14 PM | Link to this

RRR, agreed on Todd Jones. It’s a gamble, no doubt. Only reason I think he’s a viable option is the low salary demands. But you’re right, he’s hardly a sure thing. And after the debacle the Braves had last year with Kolb, I know they’d like something closer to a sure thing. But of what’s left on free-agent market, there are concerns abound with each _ Trevor, obviously because of his agent. Baez is more attractive option than either, I’d say, but Tampa Bay knows it has a hot commodity and only getting hotter as the number of closers diminish with each signing. So they’ll ask for plenty in return, no doubt.

That’s why I can’t see Braves giving up so much talent for Lugo and Gathright without Baez being part of deal.

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 05:18 PM | Link to this

Oops, I meant to say concern for Trevor’s AGE, not agent. Need to make sure I get that clear, or his agent will be understandably upset. Braves have no problem dealing with his agent; he’s represented by a solid group (wait, that might be jock-sniffing…)

And if I could edit my reply posts, I’d have edited that one. I can’t.

But hey, that rant above sounded good from the furious one.

By LeTwan Anthony

November 30, 2005 05:23 PM | Link to this

Robert, LeTwan often agrees with you. Not this time. The Mets have made themselves into a much better ballclub. Who’s to say if they are through? LeTwan is concerned that the Braves have done nothing. If we lose Furcal, fine. If we lose him and don’t add some really strong pitching, not so fine. JS must have a trade working. LeTwan can’t see this team opening without some help in the pen. Just how much help does JS think he needs?

Pitching and defense.

Carroll, LeTwan hopes the AJC doesn’t shut down blogs for light hearted fluff. Bad language? That’s different. Mama wouldn’t let LeTwan talk that way. If the AJC was opposed to fluff they couldn’t print their paper. Not exactly prize winning journalism on Marietta Street. Not in a long time, anyway.

By Get Real

November 30, 2005 05:28 PM | Link to this

RRR=eat a$$

VOR, DOB attacked a blogger, I stood up for that blogger, DOB attacked me, so I attacked him back. The substance is that you should be able to critique players without being attacked or called names, especially by someone who is supposed ot be a professional.

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 05:36 PM | Link to this

My goodness, “attacked”?

I merely defended Rafael Furcal after someone called him semi-illiterate, among other accusations. If that’s attacking, well…

Seriously, dude, you must chill. Telling people to eat s###, calling me unprofessional and so-called journalist, etc. Did someone cut you off in the turning lane today, or what?

Everyone else on here is having dialogue about the Braves. Your past four or five posts have provided absolutely nothing of substance. Please, we beg of you, get a grip.

I’m sorry, RRR’s sorry, Justice is sorry. We all are idiots and you’re right, there was nothing wrong with calling him semi-illiterate. Now, can we move on?

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 05:39 PM | Link to this

LT: I don’t really recall a lot of fowl language. Perhaps Carroll missed something. But you’re right about the quality of the AJC in general. The other day I read something from that hack Cynthia Tucker just out of sheer, morbid curiosity. Let’s just say that it was 5 minutes of my life I wish I could get back.

By Eric

November 30, 2005 05:40 PM | Link to this

Bravo DOB, enough of this PC crap—-Anyways, have you heard anything about a possible trade for Zito or Vazquez?

By Eric

November 30, 2005 05:42 PM | Link to this

I dont know why, but I am hooked on Zito, so if your wondering why I keep bringing the man up, thats why. I guess its b/c Instead of visions of sugar plums, I am having visions of a Big 3 consisting of Smoltz-Hudson-Zito…lol

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 05:48 PM | Link to this

I really haven’t. But that’s not to say nothing’s been said, just that there are no leaks in organization, so you’ve got to go fishing and talk to scouts and officials from other teams, and work off tips coming out of other cities. Haven’t heard anything, but Bobby’s always like Vazquez, for what that’s worth. I just don’t see Zito, because of how high the salary’s going to go.

Remember, Braves will be paying Hampton’s full salary in 2007 and 08, and it’s rather huge (14.5 mill in ‘07 and 15 mill in ‘08, though Braves are counting it as about $8 mill per year over six years for accounting purposes). And Hudson’s salary goes from $6 mill in 2006 to $13 mill in 2007 and again in 2008. And Chipper’s salary, even in restructured deal, will be $11 mill in 07 and again in ‘08.

By Lew Hartman

November 30, 2005 05:49 PM | Link to this

LeTwan is absolutely right. I realize that the Mets have made some ridiculous deals in the past to try to unthrone the Braves, but this time Omar is getting some good players. DelGado is very good and hardly over the hill as some believe. Billy Wagner is not Mo Vaughn, either. They are serious about wanting to win. The only thing that gives me hope is that they haven’t gone after starters. Pedro wasn’t injured last year and is due (also due for a tantrum, too), Glavine, as great as he was as a Brave, has not put the old numbers up in New York. Trachsel was out almost last season (of course he rests for a week between pitches), and Benson and Zambrano were hardly worldbeaters last year. That is where the Mets are the most vulnerable and is the one area the Braves can’t afford to be second best. Pitching is the area where the Braves MUST put their money. Hudson Smoltz and Thomson are a good start. If we could add a veteran starter, closer and some bullpen help and fill in with the children, we can take number 15. If we sign Furcal and don’t concentrate on pitching we are gone. However, Scheurholz is still on the job the last I checked. We will be fine.

By Eric

November 30, 2005 05:55 PM | Link to this

Very true, even if we stand pat, our rotation, when healthy, should be very good. I am very interested in seeing what Davies can do with a full yr of starting. Also, with chipper here for AT LEAST the next 3 yrs, and with his successor likely ready by then in Campbell, Marte needs to find a position. (Marte is not gonna sit in AAA for several more yrs to wait for Jones to retire.) I heard he didnt fair so well in the outfield last yr, so that may not be an option anymore. 1B is a “sort of” option. But with a couple of propects quickly rising and breathing down Adams neck, that doesnt seem likely. I have also read that Salty Dog may be considered there. Sounds like he is a stud in the making. Basically, what I am rambling about, is that it looks like there really is not any postion for Marte, and we should trade him while his value is high. He does have 35+ homer potential, and that could get a nice return.

By Stephen

November 30, 2005 05:58 PM | Link to this

I agree, Zito would be an excellent addition to the rotation. Although the rotation was fine in the postseason,the bullpen blew every game. The starters gave up enough runs that the Bravos could have swept all 3 of the first games. After seeing El duce in Boston, I wish the braves would persue a guy like him. A person that can get you out of a situation where you don’t allow 5 runs an inning.

By Lew Hartman

November 30, 2005 06:01 PM | Link to this

I think Betemit is disrespected on a regular basis, also. He was the organizations top prospects for several years. When he didn’t become a superstar right away, his stock fell. Last year, though he did a great job. He hit .305 and was solid in the field. He also kept his average up coming off the bench. He had a very credible rookie season that was overshadowed by Francoeur and McCann rocketing to the majors. If he doesn’t become a full time player for the Braves, he should have some pretty good trade value. He is definitely more than a utility infielder.

By Wendy

November 30, 2005 06:16 PM | Link to this

I know the Rays will ask for pitching, but it’s hard to imagine that Schuerholz will part with Davies for a rental leadoff hitter and a terrible hitting CF. Davies’ game in Boston was incredible. Plus, JS wouldn’t part with Davies for Tim Hudson last winter!

Gathright had a 650 OPS last year - that is just pathetic. Langer’s was 775, and he only hit 4 homers all year. Gaitright is a totally useless acqusition since Lugo would be the speed, we have a CF, and no one needs that pathetic bat. Remind me again why we’d trade for 2 fast guys, one with little power and one with no power?

I really, really hate that trade. Starting pitching for a SS we’ll keep for a year. Blech. But I think a speedy leadoff hitter is overrated, so that’s a lot of the problem. And I agree that Betemit is underrated. He’d be a very different SS from Furcal, certainly a setp down defensively, but can make up for a lot with his bat.

FERE BETEMIT!

By Joe Roman

November 30, 2005 06:17 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave, wake up and smell the coffee. Furcal has known nothing but winning. He has never showed any maturity. For the difference in the money we’re talking about here, Furcal can “take care of generations” well into the third mellenium if he just puts the money in a freaking savings account! My point is this. These guys go for nothing but money and nine times out of ten they bomb because they left the circumstances that got them there. Let’s say you get an offer from a Beijing daily to cover whatever passes for a major sport in China. Do you think your work would improve or your happiness even for twice what you are making now? Would whoever negotiated the deal move to Beijing with you and try to keep you happy? And by the way, being bilingual hardly qualifies anyone as a major thinker.

By Wendy

November 30, 2005 06:22 PM | Link to this

oops

FREE BETEMIT!!

;)

By truefan

November 30, 2005 06:32 PM | Link to this

Guys why would we want zito, i dont remember him and hundson doing anything great in the postseason with oakland. Yeah i like smoltz over mulder but theres not that big of a difference there to bring in zito and expect to go straigt to the series. Vazquez would be the better move.
Lugo would be a waste, if you are going to pay 5 mil, might aswell gamble on nomar and hope for the higher return, can;t always play it safe. Why do you think we get deals like jordan and mondesi, cause you haev to gamble sometimes. Nothing wrong with that. Baez would be nice, but like everyone is saying, i dont see TB just giving him away. Furcal leaves, so what. Well make do. Always have, always will. Besides sheff i can’t remember anyone having really great years after leaving the braves. Hammond, karsay, burket, mcgriff, klesko, dye, list goes on and on. Good years, but nothing great. The biggest lost might have to be sanders and we know how much all of us miss him, not alot. JS knows what he is doing, i pormise you that. And i’ll promise you one more thing, the team we have now is not the team you will see come opening day. We’ll make moves, plenty of moves. Go braves.

By Stephen

November 30, 2005 06:43 PM | Link to this

Sorry truefan, but I would have to go with mulder over smoltz. He is past his prime and getting old. You could tell by all the shoulder problems he had near the end of the year. Mulder did just find with St. Louis. Although, you have to give Smoltz more credit seeing that he could have been a 20 game winner if our bullpen knew how to pitch.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 07:39 PM | Link to this

With all the talk about Zito and Vazquez, what about my earlier idea of getting Matt Morris. He’s a power pitcher who can be had for 7-8 mill over two years. And we wouldn’t have to give up squat to get him. He’s at least as good as a John Thomson, and if he’s fully recovered from injury, possibly as good as Huddy/Smoltz.

By Jack Atkins

November 30, 2005 07:45 PM | Link to this

Look at the ‘05 statistics. How many blown saves were there? A lot. Would not John Smoltz have been more valuable to the Braves in ‘05 coming out of the pen? If John is replaced with a starter that wins only 12, that’s just 3 less than John won in ‘05. He would have more than made that up with fewer blown saves. I’m all for giving John the chance to start if that’s what he wants, but it cannot be denied he is more valuable to the Braves as a closer than a starter.

By Carroll

November 30, 2005 07:58 PM | Link to this

Good point Jack. Matt Morris could easily rack up the 15 wins Smoltz earned last year and then Smoltz could nail down the 20 or so failed save atempts that the blowpen lost for us. All of a sudden, we might have the best record in b-ball!

By JB

November 30, 2005 08:09 PM | Link to this

Guys, please get off of the Zito bandwagon. It would just be name-chasing. I’m sure one of you can pull up Z’s numbers, about how much they have dropped in the past few years. And the A’s kept hoping for his “return to form.” For all of the Nomar bashing on this blog, he at least had the excuse he’s been injured…Zito has just been bad and inconsistent at best. Trading for Zito would be great…for the A’s.

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 08:10 PM | Link to this

Joe, Chicago (or L.A.) ain’t Beijing.

And I never, ever said that being bilingual qualified someone as a deep thinker. Read the post. Don’t put words in my mouth.

I said all that some of us have to go on is his interviews in his second language, and asked what we would sound like giving interviews in Spanish to Spanish media. that’s all. Not even close to what you implied I said.

And since you seem to know, what exactly is the difference in money that we’re talking about? $1 mill? $15 mill? Or does that even matter, according to your reasoning?

And I’m wide awake, drinking coffee, as a matter of fact. I drink a lot of it.

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 08:11 PM | Link to this

In my ideal world, Smoltzie would still be closing and the planets would be back in alignment. However, Johnny wants to start, and what Johnny wants, Johnny’s gonna get. It would certainly open up many other avenues, though, wouldn’t it?

By David O'Brien

November 30, 2005 08:13 PM | Link to this

Oh, and this is the part where one of a few of the hotheads in our audience gets all indignant and calls me unprofessional, or a jock-sniffer, or whatever else you resort to when reasoning doesn’t work so well. So fire away, boys. I’m going to start a fresh pot of java.

By Curveball

November 30, 2005 08:14 PM | Link to this

The fact that some teams are spending outrageously high dollars for closers and relievers only puncuates the importance of having a solid bullpen if you want to go beyond the first round in postseason play, these teams realize that. It doesn’t matter who the lead off man is if the bullpen can’t hold some of the leads that the Braves blew last year. Pitching and defense, win with it, lose without it…

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 08:16 PM | Link to this

By the way, on the subject of Furcal’s loyalty… Would $5M make a big difference over the course of a $55M deal? Probably not. But, would the 3-5% of that $5M that the negotiating party (being his agent) will get make a difference? It will to him…

By SpecialEd

November 30, 2005 08:20 PM | Link to this

DOB—-The only thing worse than being a fool—is someone that argues with one…

By RRR

November 30, 2005 08:37 PM | Link to this

My oh my, how one year, and the different way the Braves lose in the post season, can change everyones point of view. Smoltzie being the dugout on off days, and starting in big games was why he thought that would be best for the Braves. He did it for the team, as well as going to the pen for the team. Remember the last few years when the Braves didn’t need a closer in the playoff losses (Smoltz) because we weren’t in the game at the end? Smoltz felt useless. Remember the ONE big win we got this year in the playoffs, and who pitched that game? Yeah, it’s a conundrum, but let’s be honest, if the pen didn’t lose soooo many games for Smoltz in particular, he’d have won over 20 and the Cy Young award. Face, we can’t clone Smoltz, so we need to work on THE PEN! Nothing else, other than tweaking is necessary. To my mind: Hoffman at this point is the ONLY signing that makes any sense. The rest we handle internally.

btw: Dave, don’t get so defensive. We’ve got your back. ;)

By A Lifer

November 30, 2005 08:48 PM | Link to this

I have been out of town for a while (in Phoenix right now) and I have not been able to read the blogs recently. I was looking forward to reading some interesting post regarding Braves baseball. Unfortunately, I am reading more about some rather disappointing conversations here. It would be nice if we could concentrate of Braves baseball. DOB, don’t encourage the ones that appear to just be an antagonist—-so, what new news do you have? I know JS keeps his cards close to the vest, so, any news you can provide is appreciated.

By Robert Weaver

November 30, 2005 08:59 PM | Link to this

David, Hello. What are your thoughts about the Braves possibly signing Nomar Garciaparra (if Furcal leaves) at SS and Trevor Hoffman as closer ? The Mets are upgrading heavily. Its ok to wait on free agents but if you wait too long they will all be with other teams…

By Tomahawkin

November 30, 2005 09:04 PM | Link to this

Damn! The AJC is Late, I reported that the Farns sold out to the yankees 24 hours ago…I said it before and I’ll say it again he, Glavine, Jaret Wright and Steve Karsay must love the greener pastures of New Yawk

By Robert Weaver

November 30, 2005 09:17 PM | Link to this

I heard Colin Heard talking about this just today. He said there’s too big a difference between the have’s and have not’s. You’ve got the Red Sox,Yankees,Mets,Dodgers,and Angels with $100 to 200 million dollar payrolls and teams like the Pirates and Royals with $20 million dollar payrolls. But in the NFL every team operates from the same exact team salary. Why can’t MLB be like that ?

By Ron Roberts

November 30, 2005 09:21 PM | Link to this

I see we have some GOOD dia-bloggers, and some of the same cast of clowns, in here, again.

DOB, ya gotta let the clowns roll of your back man. Ever since this service went free, the jack-a*******ery has gone up exponentially.

Anyhow, some of the dialogue’s been good. I’m personally a little let down by Farnsy and Furcal (if he does go to Chicago), but they both free up some cash for other options.

My preference would be to g’ahead and get Hoffman, a good setup man and Nomar for the top of the order for a 1-year try. Betemit can be waiting in the wings if he goes down or doesn’t pan out (which Nomar would).

By RRR

November 30, 2005 09:23 PM | Link to this

Well Robert Weaver, with the steroids issue, the Players Union have taken a big hit. They HAD been known as the strongest union in America. NOT anymore. Now the only obstacle, and it’s a big one, are the big spender owners like Steinbroker.

By Joe Roman

November 30, 2005 09:27 PM | Link to this

Hey, Dave. You’re the one who got his panties in a wad. Calling someone semi-literate is hardly a grievous insult. Show something that demonstrates the contrary. If Furcal is so deep, how come I’ve never seen anything in depth from you about him. I can’t recall ever seeing a quote from him you’ve used.

By Robert Weaver

November 30, 2005 09:31 PM | Link to this

Its just totally unfair for teams like the Royals to even play every year. They know before the season starts they won’t win the division unless an asteroid lands by some miracle… It seems MLB cares less about the descrepency between teams salary-wise. Don Fehr is a cancer to MLB. Maybe Bud Selig can take his dress off and wear the britches now and make wiser decisions…

By JohnBonRocker

November 30, 2005 09:35 PM | Link to this

Time to close the blog—RR is here…

By Eric

November 30, 2005 09:40 PM | Link to this

For any1 that cares or is familar with the Randolph Morris saga, he has been ruled IN-ELIGIBLE after an NCAA committee ruled today that his relationship with an agency during his NBA draft experience last spring was a violation, multiple sources told ESPN.com

By Sam

November 30, 2005 09:41 PM | Link to this

So far the biggest rumors of guys coming to the Braves are centered around Baez and Lugo.

When I talk about Baez to the Braves I get the Kolb induced creeping horrors. You got a guy who’s successful with a bad team. His peripheral stats aren’t that great but he seems to get the job done. That sounds like Kolb. The sad thing is that Kolb was more successful with the Brewers than Baez has been with the D-Rays.

With Lugo, you could get a good player if he duplicates his 2005. If he goes more with his career averages, you’d be better looking elsewhere.

That’s a lot of talent that would be required to get those guys and that’s a lot of risk. That’s also a lot of money.

I sure hopw JS is playing it as close to the vest as he usually does and blindsides us with something better than Lugo and Baez.

By Bluestreak

November 30, 2005 09:43 PM | Link to this

Whooo-wheeee!!!! This blog’s keeping the hot stove hot…tempers flaring and its only November. I can’t wait to read what some of you guys put up once the Braves start making some moves.

I say let Fookee walk, get a leadoff with better OBP (which, surprisingly, Lugo fits) and fill in with some good middle of the road guys.

Saying that, I would love to see Vasquez with a Tomahawk on his chest. When he’s on and not asked to be the man, he’s solid. Having him with Smoltz, Huddy and Sosa is as tough a top four as you can find. Wait, I’m forgetting Thompson. Make that Smoltzy, Huddy, Vasquez, Thompson and Sosa…potentially one of the best rotations in baseball.

I like the trade DOB mentioned with TB. I’ve heard a lot of good stuff on the outfielder he mentioned, and we do have a little glut out their already. Get him as a throw in with Baez and Lugo, and I think its a steal.

By Lew Hartman

November 30, 2005 09:49 PM | Link to this

Come on people, can’t we all just get along and play like nice children? This is beginning to sound like a Mets blog I stumbled onto by accident last week. Those people have some real issues, mostly from coming in behind the Braves for so many years. This is supposed to be a forum for discussing Braves topics, not a rip your local sportswriter a new anal orifice column. DOB is pretty decent as far as sportswriters go. At least he does you the courtesy of answering to some pretty inane comments. Let’s get back to a degree of civility and try to solve all of the Braves problems for John Scheurholz.

By andrew

November 30, 2005 09:55 PM | Link to this

it seems to me that trading hampton to somebody like the yankees who have proven they will take an injured pitcher for a year in john leiber would make sence. it would open up a lot of money and give davies a chance to start for years to come

By Abu

November 30, 2005 10:06 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave, Even though this message is probably going to get me roasted by a handful of hotheads, I wanted to commend you on excellent journalism. Trying to get good info out of JS and the Braves is not an easy job by any means, and even though I may be just one person, I’d like to say you and the AJC are top-notch professionals and your work is appreciated. As far as some of your “critics” in this blog, I’m curious, how many journalism classes have they taken in college? They believe they know more about running the Braves than JS, and many of these guys have the social graces and manners of baboons. I read this blog to try to learn insight and new ideas on my favorite baseball team, the one that I’ve followed since the mid-70s, when I was old enough to watch the sport. Many of these bloggers think this is simply a bathroom wall at a truck stop and they can load this up with inappropriate garbage. Keep up the good work, Dave.

By andrew

November 30, 2005 10:12 PM | Link to this

Langerhans showed sighns of being able to produce as a leadoff hitter late in the year. Therefore i was wondering if having him hit leadoff and grooming him to be a Johney Damon type leadoff man would work and therefore be able to play Betmit at short and save money for pitching

By Sam

November 30, 2005 10:15 PM | Link to this

I personally like the idea of Coco Crisp in left. He’s rumored to be available. He’d look good at the top of the order with Giles. I doubt the Braves are even interested but I like the idea.

By Joe Roman

November 30, 2005 10:36 PM | Link to this

The Braves trading for an outfielder-any outfielder-is like a bullfrog trading for a mandolin. They don’t need ‘em! In case you folks haven’t noticed, we GOT outfielders-very good ones-very young ones-very cheap ones. That Juan Pierre notion is the looniest one of all. Until baseball invents the designated runner, Pierre is useless. If worse comes to worse, spend money on the bullpen and trade a few of the minor league can’t missers. Juan Pierre????!!!!

By Herbster

November 30, 2005 10:42 PM | Link to this

I like Langerhan leading off. He is a good base runner, and gets on base somehow. it has been proven 1 and or 2 heaters on base, then Chipper and Andrew drive them in. nomar would be alright. wb could be back up. i agree with most people; closer, closer, closer. Get rid of Kolb, Reeksma!!!!!!!!!!!1

By JV

November 30, 2005 10:53 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave, I was reading the other day that the Astros really want to upgrade their offense and catcher is one of the primary positions they think they can improve. Also, it was thought that almost any pitcher would be available for the right player - even Lidge. What are the chances of the Braves sending Estrada, and whoever else is necessary, to the Astros for Lidge?

By Robert Weaver

November 30, 2005 10:56 PM | Link to this

Many players have come back from injury to play very well. They include Mark McGwire,J.D.Drew,Chipper Jones,and Scott Rolen. I think Nomar deserves a chance if Furcal isn’t resigned. He played college ball at Ga Tech so he’s a hometown boy like Francoeur.

By Peter

November 30, 2005 10:58 PM | Link to this

“We don’t know what JS is working on” ???

We KNOW that he is trying hard to sign Furcal! Get real here! Every party involved in it has said so. Another thing how is anyone greedy for NOT taking MORE money??

Maybe we can put an end to the “hometown discount” drivel. If you’re rich you can live anywhere, anybody here ever buy a lottery ticket?

I disagree with a lot of you about Furcal having only one good year. Range and arm have always been there. As far as the bullpen goes we’re in trouble. I said last year before Kolb pitched one inning that he couldn’t close for us. Now Cappelan and Colon certainly couldn’t do it last year but if we’ve got to bite the bullet and truly rebuld the team then we’ve got to give it time.

We just can’t keep trading for guys who’re one and out.

By Robert Weaver

November 30, 2005 11:21 PM | Link to this

Hudson could have been one and out too but he signed an extension. Thank God Kolb is one and out ! I’d become a Buddhist if I had to endure another year of Kolb as a Brave.

By SouthernJackass

November 30, 2005 11:21 PM | Link to this

The title of this blog is “Team about to get busy”—-Well DOB—-Which team is that?…

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:24 PM | Link to this

Dear Santa,

I’ve been pretty good this year… well, relatively good, anyhow… I’m not asking for much this Christmas. I’m really asking for only two main things. I want more, but I’m only asking for two main things. Please bring us a proven closer. Please!!! Just drop Hoffy or Baez under JS’s tree and I won’t bug you for much else… Oh, yeah! My second item: Push Nomar far, far away from JS’s mind. Could you do that? Please?

The mantra continues… proven closer… proven closer… proven closer…

By Robert Weaver

November 30, 2005 11:26 PM | Link to this

No Habla Baez ! Si Nomar !

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:46 PM | Link to this

See Nomar play. See Nomar run. See Nomar’s right kneecap fall off. See Nomar spend 3 weeks on the DL while the super-glue dries. See Nomar return. See Nomar beat out a chopper. See Nomar’s groin shred. See Nomar go home to Mia for 2 months. See Mia count Nomar’s money. See WB play anyway. See Nomar return again. See Nomar’s back flare up. See Bobby’s patience flare up. See the fans’ patience flare up.

I guess if I want WB to play, I should want JS to bring in Nomar…

By Voice of Reason

November 30, 2005 11:49 PM | Link to this

You know.., Nomar left such a bad taste in the ChiCubs’ mouth that they signed a back-up SS before signing a starting SS.

By Curveball

November 30, 2005 11:59 PM | Link to this

Nomore Nomar!…

By James

December 1, 2005 12:00 AM | Link to this

After reading a few blogs here Brave fans should know this. JS will make the right moves as he has the last 14 years. JS will not show you his cards until the time is right.He makes moves like a chess player always thinking ahead. And I mean years. He knows who will be free agents in 2006 and 2007. With that being said he will upgrade the pen and will pull out a surprize as usual.History says in the past he has always made great deals in spring training. Sosa,Grissom,Nixon,and several others.Laroache will be in his 3rd year so he will be a keeper cause he is cheap,so will will see how he pasn out in 06. Keep Marcus for one more year cause it would be a good deal for the money.Js will probably get 2 or 3 pitchers maybe a starter and 2 Relief Pitches.He will get a shortstop maybe Lugo for a year or maybe if Angels get Manny get Cabara for 2 years.But I like to see the Brave keep Marte,Betemit, and Langerhan for 2007.Langy to me is like a young Edmond which I would hate to lose if we lose AJ in 2 or 3 years.In 2007 the Braves could use Chipper at 1st (If LaRoache is gone)with Marte at 3rd and Betemit at SS.There will be a few good 2b free agents in 2007 which might be a good time for Giles to leave(I do Like Giles Tho)So JS will make his moves but he does think ahead in years just like a puzzle.We have alot to trade this year for what we need. Estrada,Johnson,a couple bullpen guys and farm system.I like the fact that JS is hush hush before a deal is made and its work for him in the past.One more note on Nomar.If we can get him cheap it will be a good deal. He will help some team. I know Drew was always hurt but had a great year in Atlanta and it could be good for Nomar.He is a run producer.Js number one thing is pitching and we will get better next year!

By Voice of Reason

December 1, 2005 12:04 AM | Link to this

G’night, all. Until tomorrow, proven closer… proven closer… proven closer…

By James

December 1, 2005 12:09 AM | Link to this

JS knows the Mets upgraded and knows the Phillies will try to upgrade.So he knows he will upgrade and when you read about it you’ll being saying Damn never thought of that or Wow Good move!

By rainman

December 1, 2005 12:12 AM | Link to this

as much as i have injoyed watching raffy 10 mill is to much for him. i think wb could be a very good player. lot of people down on gathright should know that he was a part timer last year up and down from the minors. at AAA he had a .388 obp and is the fastest player in baseball. peter gammons has always been high on him so he must be decent. baez and gathright for marte and kj. also why do we need starting pithcing. smoltz, hudson, sosa,thompson, hr, davies, james, and hampton coming back next year makes no sense to me. we need a closer to go with devine, boyer, mcbride and retisma. we need to trade johnny because bobby loves him and will play him out of respect ala b jordan. love the braves and so many fans talking about the braves dum to fight against each other though lets take that out on mets fans.

By Juiced

December 1, 2005 12:13 AM | Link to this

James…are you including Kolb as one of genius Schuerholz’ “great deals”?…

By Eric

December 1, 2005 12:13 AM | Link to this

I agree James….well It’s time to sleep. Or as I like to say, Ciesta.

By rainman

December 1, 2005 12:15 AM | Link to this

hampton coming after this year is what i ment to say.

By Wilson

December 1, 2005 12:16 AM | Link to this

Beer should be cheaper at Turner Field next year. And they should start selling the excellent local brew Sweetwater, instead of yellow water, I mean St. Louis/Milwaukee products.