Braves

By Ernesto

April 13, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

Sosa grooving that pitch to Lieberthal, with 2 outs and the pitcher up next…then walking that pitcher!!!!! Drop and give me 50, knucklehead!

By Chop Chop

April 13, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, when was the last time the Braves went this long into the season without a win from a starter?

By Bryan

April 13, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Dave, how close were we to moving So-So-sa - compared to JT? Any starters out there the braves might move in on? St Louis has a few extra starters - and a few underperforming field players right now…

By Andrew

April 13, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Last night’s late-inning hit notwithstanding, I propose we give young Jeff a new nickname: Benchy.

By Bob

April 13, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

DOB, you’re thought provoking as always … but, were the Mets playing the Reds in Chicago, or what?

Also, do you think that James was “tipping” his pitches … as suggested by Jeff Turbourg?

By Eric

April 13, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

I have confidence in Hudson and Smoltz. I think when all is said and done, each will have 15-18 wins and a solid ERA. Could Hudson really be declining??? What is he…30 31? If he continues pitching like this, that “steal of an extension” contract we gave him suddenly looks Hampton esque. But it’s far to early for any thoughts of that variety.

At the beginning of the yr, I swore up and down to my friends that this was the yr that Hudson was going to win 20 games and have an era in the 2’s, on his way to a possible CY Young. Early returns arent promising (for any of our starters) but I think its only fair to let each have 3-5 starts before making any positive diagnosis.

I also find it amusing that Davies has our best or 2nd best start so far this yr, yet his era is 5.40.

By Voice of Reason

April 13, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

Bob: “Maddux, who’ll be 40 next week, is 2-0 with a 1.46 ERA after allowing one run in six innings yesterday against homer-happy Cincinnati with the wind blowing out at Wrigley.” Maddux = Cubs, Glavine = Mets. Does that clear it up?

By Paul

April 13, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

Bob - Let’s try to follow along here. The Cubs (whom Maddux pitches for) were playing the Reds in Chicago. The Cubs tend to play in Chicago at Wrigley Field from time to time.

By Voice of Reason

April 13, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

It’s easy to confuse the Mets and Cubs… Neither is around in October.

By Excelsior

April 13, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

Geez, Voice of Reason, you’re attitude seems a bit unreasonable for such an honest and simple misread on the part of Bob. An arse for the sake of being an arse…very pomo of you. Do retorts like that make you feel good about yourself?

My bitterness toward Glavine has subsided, especially now that I’ve read Built to Win. Glav was put in a tough spot, and he rued his decision. I’ll welcome him back w/ open arms. Same for Mad-dog, though, I never had anything against him…except for those few times he pitched 1 hour & 50 minute complete games; I didn’t even feel like I was getting my money’s worth at the stadium. I barely had time to slug 2 beers (this was back when they served 24 oz. cups instead of these dinky 16 oz. plastic bottles).

It’s funny. All through the offseason and spring, we were worried about the relief pitchers, yet he we are and they are actually outperforming the starters, which doesn’t say much.

It’s too early to worry. We’re cool.

By Andrew

April 13, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

If Paul likes to point out people’s errors and set them straight, somebody please tell him it’s “For whom Maddux pitches”.

By LeTwan Anthony

April 13, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

LeTwan thinks Sosa has been in the pie. Sosa is putting on a little weight and LeTwan knows all too well that pie will do that to you. Still, LeTwan is enjoying a piece of pie right now. Mama has outdone herself today with a sweet potato pie. LeTwan enjoys it with just a bit of butter pecan ice cream. LeTwan is not in playing shape. Of course, LeTwan could still give you six or seven good innings - and we need a lefty in the rotation. Good luck tonight to Kyle Davies. Pie for a win.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

I don’t think all this (poor pitching, Francoeur slouching, sub .500 ball) would be as bad if the Mets weren’t winning. Filthy Mets. Can’t wait until they have some real opponents. Just hope we get our act together when we cruise into New York. Maybe that’s when Francoeur snaps out. He’ll go 15 for 15 in the three games with 4 grand slams and 28 RBI’s while picking up 10 outfield assists.

After Sosa last night, all I have left is my dreams.

By Voice of Reason

April 13, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

“Geez,” X, I think you have totally misread my response. I believe I quoted DOB’s post, then attempted to explain Bob’s obvious misunderstanding. Where did I offend you? I will, however, give you the benefit of the doubt without resorting to namecalling…

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

April 13, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

Letwan I agree.

By scot

April 13, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

Can we package Saltzy and Ramirez for Miami’s Willis?

By MontgomeryDoug

April 13, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

move mccann and betemit up in the order and loroche and francouer down. lets keep the hot hitters at the top protecting jones where they belong. lets not keep killing rallies in the middle of the order with two hot hitters at the bottom of the order. cox won’t do it though. it would take some kind of religous experience for cox to remove chipper from the three hole even after he returns from the dl.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

April 13, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

No, we can’t. I don’t believe Willis is worth giving up Salty.

By TrboDawg

April 13, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

Guys maybe I’m really dense, but I don’t see any mistakes in DOB’s statement: “Maddux, who’ll be 40 next week, is 2-0 with a 1.46 ERA after allowing one run in six innings yesterday against homer-happy Cincinnati with the wind blowing out at Wrigley.”

I read, Maddux was pitching in Wrigley against the “homerun hitting” happy Cincinnati Reds. If he’s pitching AGAINST the Reds at Wrigley, it follows he MUST be pitching for the Cubs…

Paul are you thinking “homer happy” means they were happy to be home???

I guess I’m just “Confused in California”

By True Braves Fan

April 13, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

Maddux—Come back anytime!!! $$Mr. Union Glavine—NEVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Chop Chop

April 13, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

Willis is only 24, Robert. To the Marlins, he’d be worth at least a team’s top prospect and two good ones. I don’t think the Braves would give up Salty, though. And besides, Kyle Davies is going to get a win tonight. Don’t worry so much. Francoeur will get a couple of hits and get on the right track in tonight’s game. It’s etched in stone.

By Jeremy

April 13, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this

How but this everbody: Braves get Barry Zito and Eric Chavez from the A’s and Brad Lidge and Willy Taveras from the Astros. Houston gets Adam LaRoche, Kelly Johnson, John Thomson, Joey Devine and Bryan Pena. The A’s get Marcus Giles, Jorge Sosa, Blaine Boyer, one of those many good young SS’s we have, and Matt Diaz. Chipper moves to 1B, Betemit can play everyday at 2B, and Langerhans and Willy can platoon in LF and bat leadoff. Rotation would be:Hudson, Smoltz, Zito, Ramirez, and Davies. If James proves he can be a 5th starter, we can ship Ramirez in one of those deals too. We keep Salty and bring him up to play 1B when Chipper’s legs finally fall off in a couple years. Until then, a few world series rings to go around for everyone. Hey, I can dream can’t I?!?!?!

By Voice of Reason

April 13, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Chop, for some positivity. This blog has become an outlet for mass panic and rapid bandwagon exits. Occasionally you can find some interesting information and conversation about baseball or pie, but mostly you find over-reaction and derision. Life’s too short, folks. At least this isn’t the Duke University Lacrosse blog… Go Braves!

By Jeremy

April 13, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

How but this everbody: Braves get Barry Zito and Eric Chavez from the A’s and Brad Lidge and Willy Taveras from the Astros. Houston gets Adam LaRoche, Kelly Johnson, John Thomson, Joey Devine and Bryan Pena. The A’s get Marcus Giles, Jorge Sosa, Blaine Boyer, one of those many good young SS’s we have, and Matt Diaz. Chipper moves to 1B, Betemit can play everyday at 2B, and Langerhans and Willy can platoon in LF and bat leadoff. Rotation would be:Hudson, Smoltz, Zito, Ramirez, and Davies. If James proves he can be a 5th starter, we can ship Ramirez in one of those deals too. We keep Salty and bring him up to play 1B when Chipper’s legs finally fall off in a couple years. Until then, a few world series rings to go around for everyone. Hey, I can dream can’t I?!?!?!

By Jman

April 13, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for bringing back fond memories of the Braves pitching glory days. I for one would love to see at least Glavine back in a Braves uniform. But we’d have to shed Hampton’s salary first. I am ready to see him (Hampton) go bye-bye.

I would be a bit skeptical of a Hudson, Smoltz, Glavine, Maddux, Davies rotation, if only because the top 4 in that rotation’s age would equal over 150 years combined. But man would I love to see it for nostalgia’s sake.

By Jeremy

April 13, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this

Look, DOB liked my idea so much, he posted it twice!

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this

Willis would be worth Ramirez, Sosa and whatever other no-name minor leaguer we can toss at ‘em. But on thing I think skips peoples minds is, the Florida GM isn’t that bad. When he makes a trade, it usually works better for him than the other team. Probably why it’s always a stale mate between Florida and Atlanta when it’s trading time. I’d say the same for Tampa now that we have a year plus under our belt with Sosa. Last year it looked like a steal, but now I think Nick Green could pitch better than Sosa. Plus, Tampa pulled Scott Kazmir from the Mets for Victor Zambrano. I’d like to shake the D-Rays GM’s hand for that. That put the Mets back a bit on starting pitching.

By Chop Chop

April 13, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

Jeremy, how about this? We get Eric Chavez, Rich Harden and Barry Zito and cash from the Oakland A’s (via the Yankees) for Pete Orr and Brian Jordan. Nah. Orr and Jordan are too scrappy. Can’t do that deal.

By Jman

April 13, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this

Keep on dreaming Jeremy.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

April 13, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure Zito is as coveted as he once was. If you think Hudson has declined, take a look at Zito.

By Jim From Tenn

April 13, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

Looked alot like chucky’s secret was found out last night, that our he is tipping his change. I also think rollins is a sneaky little bastard who signaled the pitch to rowand.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

I think last night was the first time a batter got to see James twice in one game. That’s a big test for a pitcher. If he can keep the hitter fooled mutliple times in a game. James will learn. He’s just a young guy now, but he and Davies will be heading a powerful rotation in the near future. And if Sosa keeps pitching like this, it will be real soon.

By Jman

April 13, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

Willis will command a king’s ransom next offseason - Not to mention the Marlins asking price. Dontrelle would probably cost us our Top 3 prospects. Salty, Escobar, and Davies. Florida will milk other teams all they can for Willis.

By doc

April 13, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

throw back unis and throw back players have me wistfully thinking of phil niekro. though he never had an era as low as maddog, he could make guys look just as foolish if not more so. it wasnt referenced much as we forget knuksies greatness but he had 13 years with 15 or more wins and was only just passed by maddog for total wins; phil had 318 and greg has 320 now i believe.

we have had and still have some greatness among us as braves fans. lets not overlook it as consistantly as we do in this what have you done for me lately world we have become accustomed. though i think francouer is atill a product in making he doesnt deserve boos, probably no one does on the baseball field except a player for another team as an appropriate and startling greeting.

By HugeFan

April 13, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

How about this we trade Renteria and Hudson to the Dodgers for Furcal and Brad Penny. Renteria’s Spanish and they’ll love that in LA!!! Then we trade LaRoche, and Smoltz (good, but old) and Hampton to the Giants for Schmidt and Bonds (also old, but still good and SF is tired of controversy). Then we trade Bonds to Houston (who needs a star and Bonds fits into that killer B thing they do there) for Lidge and Lamb. Move either Lamb or Chipper to first. All it takes is some imagination. And mark my words Brad Penny will win the Cy Young in the next 3 years!! Plus Schmidt is at the top of his game, plus we’d have Furcal back.

By Jim From Tenn

April 13, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

Francoeur Hold your head up. Hey you are tied for 6th place in AT BATS.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

Furcal is having one of Renteria’s slow starts this year. Renteria on the other hand is hitting like a champion and knocking in runs all over the place. I loved Furcals arm, but Renteria is just down right amazing! And we got him for a minor leaguer! Ha! I love it. Plus he’s only half the price of Furcal.

By Jman

April 13, 2006 05:48 PM | Link to this

How about we raise Babe Ruth from the dead, thaw Ted Williams’ body out, convince Hammerin’ Hank to come out of retirement, and lure Nolan Ryan back into the game. Pay them all the league minimum because Lord knows league minimum today would be like a 200% raise from when they played. Then we can have an awesome team! Sounds absurd I know, but some of the “rumors” I’ve seen some folks come up with on here are just about as bad. Give it up guys. Leave all those big, ridiculous deals to your X-Box, and Ps2 games.

By Kerry

April 13, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

Jeremy and HugeFan,

Are you guys talkin’ about fantasy baseball or what? Those deals would never happen especially since the season has already started. The chemistry on the team would be gone.

By LeTwan Anthony

April 13, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

LeTwan was talking with Mama earlier about what to do with Betemit when Chipper comes back. Everyone knows that Bobby will put Chipper back at 3B and will bat him third. He’s earned that over time - but does it change when he no longer produces like the Chipper of old? He has a l-o-n-g contract now. He’s gonna be around for a long time. What’s that do to Betemit?

LeTwan thinks Chipper’s not as good at 3B as Betemit. One man’s opinion. He would not be as good at 1B as LaRoche or Juries - though he probably would set up the cutoff which Jordan fails to do. If he’s not hitting like a 3-hitter and he’s too tender to field his position, will he still be entrenched? LeTwan thinks so. What does that mean for Betemit?

What does that mean for Andruw? For the team? Will Betemit play ahead of Renteria? No way. Will he get a shot at first? Hey, a guy hit .470 in the spring and got no shot at first.

Betemit is showing he can be an every day player - and a good one. He had three doubles last night. Mama thinks he should play. Who is in jeopardy of losing a position? No one, apparently.

By Kevin

April 13, 2006 05:56 PM | Link to this

Some observations

1. Gammons himself said he did not know if Hudson was a national league type pitcher, starting to look right

2. Willis will be moved in the offseason, according to Buster Olney’s blog today, the Marlins when they traded Beckett called every team and took offers—more interest in the offseason because more teams will trade then rather than just contenders in the regular season

3. Willis is good but not worth 3 top prospects, I would trade Escobar for a good closer or potential closer like Qualls from Houston

4. According to the Phiiy dugout last night, James tipped his change by showing a “stiff wrist” when he released the ball—if the announcers know this so do the Braves

5. Sosa go on a diet and pitch long relief until you get squared away

6. Switch McCann and Francouer in the lineup—remember we were under 500 into June

7. Maddux and Glavine are long shots to return unless new ownership is in place, plus where do you put them?? Hampton will be back whether we like it or not, Hudson and Smoltz are back and Davies and James will be in the rotation by next year I hope

8. It is a long season, if we are like this in August then we are in trouble

By Choppin Bob

April 13, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

Paul,

Excellent points about Renteria vs. Furcal. I have a good feeling about tonight because whenever I watch a game they win. I have psychic powers and control the game.

By Murph

April 13, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Bring back Tom Glavine any day. Pro-union or not, the Braves have rarely had a greater person/talent on their roster. Any Braves fan who would harbor ill will against him after his many contributions to this franchise needs to let it go. Being a professional athlete shouldn’t require that you lose all personality, scrap all ambitions not related to throwing strikes, and shelve personal opinions and beliefs. I’d prefer athletes who are “real” and “honest” any day over someone like Mark “I’m not here to talk about, well, anything” McGwire.

By Dr. Jay

April 13, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

I agree with the “Maddux yes, Glavine never” crowd. I read “Built To Win” as well, and it generates zero sympathy from me toward Glavine. He’s a spoiled baby, and he was as indecisive as a squirrel in the road. I’ll take Hudson any day, even with his current struggles.

By Voice of Reason

April 13, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

I’ll take Hudson without the struggles; is that an option?

By Brian O'Brien

April 13, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

Where’s Rick Camp when you need him :). I like pie………

By metsmanintheatl

April 13, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this

bravos better start looking at the wildcard as this definitely looks like the year of the METROPOLITANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!GO METS

By Ron

April 13, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

I’d love to see Maddux and/or Glavine back in fact what will they be doing at the break? It would make too much sense for TW to bring one or both back because it would put rear-ends in the seats and we can’t have that…..that would mean we fans expect them to spend money.

By geechee

April 13, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this

To me, anyone that hates Tom Glavine was never a true long term Braves fan. Much of our glory is due to his arm and his leadership. Letting Glavine go was JS’s greatest mistake since trading David Justice. Tom Glavine did not want to leave the Braves and was put into that postion by an arrogant JS. JS might be a genius but,losing Justice and then Glavine has cost the Bravos much more than most fans realize or are willing to admit.

By old timer

April 13, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this

When the deal for Hudson was made, how many of us said, “Gee, I hope it’s a rent-a-player transaction and we let him walk at the end of the season?” Everybody wanted to lock him up, and that’s what happened. It’s not likely JS will trade him during the season, and we probably can’t win unless he has a good year.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

Well, I might be in the minority here, but I still like Mark “I can’t believe I got subpoenaed into the middle of election year grandstanding” McGwire.

By Robert

April 13, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

Wow. What a start. Gee, lets see, Leo leaves and out pitching flat out stinks. It’s the worst it’s been since 1990..hmmm the year before Leo came. Face it, this team isn’t going to do squat this year.

By Bob

April 13, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

Apologies to DOB!!

Speed Reading and old age don’t mix … I somehow read “Glavine” instead of Maddux, coupled with Wrigley and Cincy.

Player movement may be a natural consequence of Curt Simmons’ but let’s enjoy the novelty of our team of “home grown” kids having a chance to win it all.

Million Dollar salaries may have become commonplace, thanks again to Curt and unions that represent players with personal agents, but they’re still beyond reason; especially when one considers the number of marginal players getting seven figure salaries with crooked leading digits.

It’s nice to be able to enjoy it when those that attempt to “buy” success fall on their faces while we’ve succeeded with a different formula.

Let’s solve our problems internally … there’s a lot of tallent there to harness (especially with Frenchy batting 10th for a while) … show our support, and get on with winning.

You can jolly well bet that there’s more than one “chap” (jimmy smith doesn’t understand “bloke”) associated with the Braves that takes more than a casual interest in the David O’Brien Blogs … so let’s continue to give them food for thought.

I can’t understand the boos directed at Frenchy … or any kid playing his heart out and giving 100%, or with license, even more. Let’s reserve our boos for the prima-donnas who might give 50%; those who bring discredit to the game.

So much for my tripe … Braves are already dow 3-0; 1st inning, nobody out.

By Voice of Reason

April 13, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

AAAAAEEEEEIIIIIIIGH!!!!

By Bob

April 13, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

Oops, 5-0 and no one up in the pen …

By ernesto

April 13, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

5 runs. 3 homers. 1 double. 1 single. No one out. Think you should go talk to your young pitcher, Roger? Jeez!

By MEB

April 13, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

Is this a nightmare or is this really happening. Wait the Braves just recorded an out. 5-0 Phillies

By kevin

April 13, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

hey kevin, by saying “hudson isnt a national league type of pitcher” what did peter gammons mean? i dont really understand the basis for that comment.

By Ernesto

April 13, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this

So Renteria’s talking to to Davies. McCann…do Roger’s shoes hurt?

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this

Every pitch was up. Now he’s getting them down but this is brutal. I’m going to pretend this is spring training.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this

Ah yes. This should be a slug fest. Gavin Floyd. We sent this guy down to the minors last year. I sure hope we pound him back down there again.

By krath

April 13, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this

Ok…maybe not fair to jump on Roger Mcdowell yet…. and Some of the Braves pitchers didn’t relate to Leo…. but does anyone think Leo wouldn’t have been chewing some major butt when the pitching staff was pitching like they had no clue how to pitch? Sometimes, you need a whip cracker and Leo was that. Mcdowell ain’t. So in essence the inmates (pitchers) have taken over the asylum. They may really like Roger and didn’t like Leo… but I don’t think Leo would have let this staff lose concentration like they obviously has.

Sometimes you need to be a coach and not a pal. Leo wasn’t a pal. The pitching staff needs a coach now.

By Shawn

April 13, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this

If Chipper played any other sport besides the soft game of baseball, he would have lasted no more than three years being so injury prone as he is. He can’t even run to get a ball without pulling somthing or tripping on his own feet.

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this

Wow… I felt like I was trying to wake up from a nightmare!

By krath

April 13, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

What’s the old saying? You can’t win it in April, but you sure can lose it.

By Del

April 13, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

what is the one constant amongst our starters? The pitching coach!

Somebody better find out what Roger is teaching this staff, stat. Something ain’t right!!!

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

BEAUTIFUL homer by Fracoeur! Nice job laying off the first pitch too!

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

Francoeur singles! 2 for 2 so far tonight!

By ernesto

April 13, 2006 09:04 PM | Link to this

Anyone think Miranda’s got a poster of Frenchy on her walls?

Good to see Frenchy hitting! And good on Davies for sucking it up and coming back to pitch so well, despite the second dinger to Utley.

By jimmy smith, journalist

April 13, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

did you see jimmy smith on tv? journalist was just on camera. hello to everyone. hello to all. hello. journalist may try for tv broadcaster job. handsome enough. print journalists sometimes ugly but women like nonetheless. bobby uses pen in most unusual manner. there will be some tired arms ahead. then what?

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this

Yup… Davies looked very good after that first inning!

ernesto… can’t deny it… you’re good!

HAHA… well, they aren’t posters just a bunch of pics ..a few 8x10 ..the rest 4x6 LMAO …my standup of Dale Earnhardt, Jr. is the largest thing in my room though! HAHA

By ernesto

April 13, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

That is one seriously ugly mitt Abreu’s rocking out there. A grey glove to match your grey uni? We get it, your not from around here. And sorry to show my age but Sal Fusano could be Thurman Munson’s love child - lookswise anyway.

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

I hate odd colored gloves… they just stand out! I like the traditional colors!

By Jeremy

April 13, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or do you all want Skip Carey to just stop talking?!?!

By eric the elder

April 13, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

Jeremy, Skip is a Rush Limbaugh fan, so what would you expect?

By ssiscribe

April 13, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

Jimmy: missed you on TV. You’re right; print journalists not exactly runway models, but some of us do have a bit of charm about us. Gotta looked past the ink stains on the hands and the notebook bulging out of back pocket of slacks. There’s heart and soul and, dare I say, culture, in the press box after all, ha ha!!!

Tough spot for the Bravos again tonight, down in a big hole early. Great to see Davies bounce back and get the breaking ball over. Even better to see Frenchy do something with the stick other than strike out or ground out to third.

And, the silent treatment in the dugout when Jeff went deep was classic. Braves Nation is about to come apart over the first nine games of the season, but the guys in uniform seem to be just fine.

Maybe because they know come August, everything will be where it’s supposed to be.

OK, without running the risk of making anybody mad by talking about work skeds, etc., I’m done for the night. Everybody enjoy. DOB, nice job on the Sting Ray story you knocked out the other day, BTW. I’m off to celebrate a big Thrashers victory. Peace and, since I may not be back here for a few days, Happy Easter.

The SSI is OUT. Later.

By Marc Spoor

April 13, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves should just spot every team they play 5 runs, and they should start the games in the 3rd inning. This is a joke. Davies is not ready for the majors, Sosa was lucky last year, this year he is just fat, Hudson has been terrible for almost a year, and Smoltz is now old. This team is poorly constructed 4 guys make half of the budget. Our bullpen can’t hold a lead, or keep a ream at what they have, and the starters are awful. As soon as the offense cools down, which they will, the Braves are gonna get clobbered. The offense picks tonight to go quiet, against a terrrible pitcher like Floyd. I hope JS has something up his sleeve, or this is gonna be a long year, already 4 games out. By the way has anyone bothered to look at the Phillies offensive satistics before they played us, they were last in every category, thank god we made them look like the Yankees.

Hey DOB let me guess, the pitchers are having trouble adjusting from the cold weather to the warmer, nicier weather in Atlanta. This pitching staff should be embarrased, this sucks.

By ernesto

April 13, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this

Miranda - time to make a little room on the wall!

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 10:05 PM | Link to this

YEA!!! HOMER AGAIN! 3 for 4

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this

HAHA… I don’t have any spots left hardly… I think everyone that comes in it gets nauseated! HAHA… I love it though… I had to rearrange all my bigger posters to make my wall of McCann! LOL I think it looks neat though… like a collage!

By ernesto

April 13, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this

anyone liking the air-cooled batting helmets, the phils, dodgers, mets, etc are sporting this year? Might come in handy in the dog days, but they take a little getting used to.

By geechee

April 13, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this

I won’t mention any names but it is comical to go back and read some of the posts from this first week from people who “know” more about baseball than Bobby Cox and telling us what Bobby needed to do with Frenchy :)

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

You know… there might be new pics of after tonight’s performance… LOL.. I will definately have to make room! …oh I just counted because yall made me curious.. right now I have 45 pics of Jeff on my wall! LMAO

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

I think I like the new helmets… they’re different though!

By Nicholas Irwin

April 13, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this

He looked pretty good for the rest of his outing for somebody who’s “not ready for the majors.” I’m not saying that the first inning isn’t a problem…it definitely is, but I’m not sure needing more seasoning is his problem.

By MBATL

April 13, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

Marc, not only can the naysayers not wait until MAY to decide that all is lost; they can’t even wait until the GAMEE is over to decide the offense ‘went in the tank.’ Six runs (going into the 9th) is not what I’d call in the tank.

Dont’ know what’ll happen tonight in the 9th, but this team does show some fight. I don’t know if you think you know baseball better than JS/BC, or that you care more about winning than they do. Neither makes a lot of sense to me.

The pitchers will get better, or JS will go out and do his best to fix the staff. Who knows if we’ll win a division, or a WS, but I am pretty confident that those “in charge” are pretty competent, and that they probably want to win.

By eric the elder

April 13, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this

Aw, c’mon, geechee, go ahead and mention names. I don’t recall anyone saying that they know more about baseball than BC, altho I do remember some suggestions for Francoeur. This is a blog. Contributors share ideas and opinions.

By MBATL

April 13, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

Eric, was that meant for me?

By Miranda

April 13, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

Well… we tried to come back, but didn’t quite get enough back…

By Nicholas Irwin

April 13, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

Matt Diaz can spend all night in the batting cage bunting the ball.

By Del

April 13, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

AND THE BEAT GOES ON… AND ON… AND ON.

By john

April 13, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

Please no more Glavin. He begs for strikes and is washed up. Travd Chippie. We have an outstanding 3rd baseman now. I heard that lousy Skippie Carey says the Phils had only one win coming into Atlanta. Now they have three puke Carey and your employer has four.

By ernesto

April 13, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

MBATL - I don’t want to speak for anyone but I think eric was talking to Geechee, when he said “Aw. c’mon geechee…”

By Nicholas Irwin

April 13, 2006 10:33 PM | Link to this

Well, to all you people who think Matt Diaz should start, not only should he not start, he should be sent back to the freaking developmental league until he learns how to freaking bunt.

By J-dogg

April 13, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

I am so sick of our stupid a* starting pitching. I dont think its gonna get any better, where in deep s** if we dont do anythihng to improve this. The last time our starters have not one a game in the 1st 10, was 1988, we started 0-10, 4-6 is a lot better but 2 of those wins were luckly. Please JS do something to make this s** pitching better.

By Peewee

April 13, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this

LeTwan ‘s mama got that pie to Frency and bam! he had a great night. Peewee thinks we dont need closer-we never get ahead. Starting pitchers for Braves last in NL- AL, if this keeps up the partys over already. GLAVINE a Brave again, h*ll no! I’d give up my season tickets if that happen,I would take KOLB over his outside slow pitch,smart mouth.Maddux yes He is a first class gentleman.Peewee thinks BOBBY & JOHN need to talk about getting some more pitchers soon, or no # 15.

By BO

April 13, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

DOB I cant believe you want Glavine back.I thought more of you.

By nathan

April 13, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this

does anybody else have a problem with pinch running for betemit with pena, instead of pinch hitting pena for pitcher (obvious bunting situation)? Because i’m guessing that diaz probably sacrifice bunted less than 10 times in the minor leagues since he usually hit 3-4-5 spots in order! so with pena bunting (successfully i’m sure) betemit is at second, and giles base hit ties the game!!!!

anybody else on this board want to call bobby cox the “smartest” manager ever? if this was the playoffs, that move would make bringing leibrandt in to face puckett look like the worlds greatest decision!

i saw it the other day…..65-63.

….for those of you wondering, it’s bobby’s playoff won loss record.

i don’t deny he is a good “manager” of staffs & young players. but some of his in game decisions just baffle a person to insanity!

comments anybody?

By J-dogg

April 13, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

Nathan,

I think BC thinking was to have speed on the base and a guy who could replace WB incase of a tie, Diaz should be able to get the bunt down, he looked terrible and it cost us a chance to tie the game.

By Chop Chop

April 13, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

I got it half-right. Francoeur broke out of his slump, but Davies didn’t pitch well. Maybe Hudson will wake up tomorrow.

By nathan

April 13, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

on second thought…..in a possible extra inning game…keep pena on bench and pinch hit (to sacrifice bunt) with smoltz or thomson!…..or at the very least if pena is faster than a former “5 tool” player, ….steal with him!

oh yeah, i forgot bobby doesn’t like the running game. for those of you that thinks he does here are 3 numbers for you…..

78, 75, 96

what are those numbers you may ask?

78 is grissom’s SB total 2 years before he was a brave, 75 was lofton’s the year before he was a brave, & 96 was furcals total in the minors before his call up! (i’ll conceed that most minor league pitchers & catchers aren’t good at holding or throwing out runners, so save it! you get my point!)

hmmmmm, sounds like we got a manager with all ten fingers on the “green light” switch, doesn’t it?

you know the old saying that bobby (& his hero - earl weaver) lived by pitching defense & the 3-run homer? this team is gonna need 3 of those three run homers to make up for the lack of the others. i realize that the defense is not that bad, but i consider not covering first base by a pitcher to worse than kicking a groundball.

signed, 25 year standing braves fan, longing for zaine smith, rick mahler, craig mcmurtry & marty clary!

By Chuck D

April 13, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this

Everybody needs to relax about the pitching. Yes, we are four games out, but this team has a long history of putting together strings of victories, especially late in the season. The Braves hardly ever start the season hot. Obviously the starters are struggling right now, but give them time and they will produce.

Think of it this way: we’ve won 40% of our games without having a win from our starters…that’s pretty good. Keep that up and throw in an average of seven wins per starter (Smoltz, Hudson, Thomson, and Horacio have averaged about eleven wins a piece per full season as starters; Hudson has never had fewer than 12, Smoltz never fewer than 11; Davies averages a win every third game)and we’re looking at 100 wins this year. We might not keep up the 40%, but I guarantee you the starters average more than 7 wins. We should be 1-9 right now.

Plus, we’ve played two more games than most other teams…our bullpen has been pitching dead tired and still pitching well. Not to mention that our offense has been killing it so far.

By David O'Brien

April 13, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this

Before I forget, Boyer is going to probably miss the rest of the season, or at least four months, after he has an arthroscopic procedure on his shoulder next week. Not good. They’ll look in there and see if there’s more damage, or whether it’s minor enough to clean up simply with the scope, in which case he’d begin throwing again in about three months.

BO, I didn’t say I wanted Glav back … but I sure wouldn’t mind, especially after tonight’s latest starter meltdown. This is borderline absurd, the big innings. I have a stat in my game story tonight, went back and counted 14 _ FOURTEEN! _ innings the Braves have allowed three or more runs in one inning. And we’re 10 games into the season.

And that’s the sixth time in 10 that they’ve allowed four or more runs in either the first or second inning. If this weren’t such a tight-knit clubhouse, hitters, might be ready to strangle the starting pitchers’ necks about now.

It can’t continue and obviously won’t, but I’ve been saying that for five days at least, and it’s continued.

Frenchy breaking out tonight was huge, obvioiusly. Another couple of 0-fers and Bobby might not have had any choice but to bench him. Now, he’s got something to build on, and he did crush those two balls.

Given their starters’ performances, it’s really something that the Braves have even won four games and been so close in others. But how many teams _ besides Colorado _ ever lead a league in scoring and sit two games under .500 after 10? And the pitching-rich Braves, of all teams…mind-boggling, indeed.

Can’t say I see a solution. He’s just got to keep running these guys out there for now and wait for them to get it right. When Macay McBride is ready, which could be in a week or so, it’s possible _ POSSIBLE _ that Bobby could move him to the bullpen and move Chuck James to the rotation. But seriously, which one do you replace _ Sosa or Davies? Sosa could go to the ‘pen, then when Horacio is ready in another couple weeks or so, if someone else is still stinkin’ up the joint, he could be shipped to Richmond or whatever.

But I’m getting ahead of myself and making the mistake of trying to figure this out, when injuries and the like usually take care of those decisions for us.

By Jeremy

April 13, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

I am not happy with the Braves this year, and it’s all about those starters. That bullpen led by Villareal and Ray (nobody bring up that sucky closer) has actually been alright but these starters can’t produce anything. Everyone says Hudson hasn’t been the same lately but he had some outstanding starts in the stretch run last year (ex: 1 run in 8 innings at Wrigley…beat Zambrano). Maybe Sosa is a bust and last year wasn’t the real him. Remember, we did get him for a backup infielder. Even though he struggled tonight, Betemit has to get a chance in that lineup. Get rid of LaRoche and a starting pitcher for a closer and have Betemit play 1B, and when Chipper’s hurt (75% of the year), have Jurries play over there. In the end, that pitching needs to do something because the hitting can’t do this all year. But for now, hit away Baby Braves, hit away!

By TennesseePaul

April 14, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

DOB: Are any of these guys injured? Seriously? Seems like that’s the excuse after most meltdowns in the Braves tribe. Some one stinks the place up, his back is tweaked, is shoulder is jacked, his elbow is shot, etc. I hear all this talk about how well Bobby handles pitchers but it seems there are a lot of these injury induced terrible outings.

Roger has to be ashamed. I don’t think this is his fault. But it’s getting a little harder to defend. I am certain this isn’t the lose of Leo. 28 other teams don’t have Leo and they are pitching better. Knowing that one can only conclude that something is wrong on the coaching side. How does this staff go from average to down right horrible with no end in sight and the only thing that changed was the coach? When is the team meeting going to happen? Cox usually goes in there and lays it all out and the next thing you know, the team wins 45 of the next 50 games and they are on top of the world.

Two weeks in, I know, don’t panic. But this season… all the comparisons go back to some of the worst teams in Braves history and in Baseball history. It isn’t setting up well at all. The Braves haven’t been this bad since they were terrible. And that was over 15 years ago.

On the good side of things, Davies did start locating better after that third homer. He started getting the ball down in the zone and making the hitter work for a hit instead of laying it out there for any schmuck with a stick to bash around the park.
I love Ken Ray. The guy is incredible. His change up is just great stuff. I’m glad he’s in the pen. Keep up the good work Ray!
Francoeur broke out of his slump with a vengence. Lets hope he keeps this up for the rest of the month at least.
Nice stop by LaRoche on that potential double down the line when ray was pitching.
I am still amazed at how many runs we are scoring. This is just unbelievable. I don’t recall another Braves team that could produce runs like this. What’s the fewest in a game so far, 4? It only magnifies how bad the pitching has been.

By TennesseePaul

April 14, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the update on Boyer. Hope the kid comes back gunning.

By Carolina Lady

April 14, 2006 01:37 AM | Link to this

This from DOB’s column tonight really caught my eye. Speaks volumes if you read between the lines and bear in mind who is speaking: “You’ve got to remember that you’ve got to pitch in the first inning, not just throw,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said. “When you start a ball game it’s not a throwing contest, it’s a pitching contest.” Interesting. And wouldn’t I love to be a little fly on the wall in Bobby’s office sometimes! :-)

By Young Jeezy

April 14, 2006 02:10 AM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien, how does that kool-aid taste? Yeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh. You sound kinda like Mark Bowman at mlb.com, and whoever replied to my angry email about Mazzone leaving at atlantabraves.com the day after the O’s signed him, and the Braves veterans almost desperately trying to discredit their former pitching coach; endlessly trying to downplay the loss of the guy ESPN calls the greatest assistant coach in pro sports history. Our young pitchers are struggling and Hudson looks worse than he’s ever looked in his career. But let me take it a step further — I say that without Mazzone, Glavine doesn’t hit 200 wins for his career. Ayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Mazzone’s guidance is what kept him hitting the outside corner, rather than missing it, like he did the year after he left here. The sooner everyone realizes how huge a mistake letting Mazzone go was, the sooner we can work on maybe, possibly, bringing him back. There is no reason why Leo had to leave. Yeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh.

By Bob

April 14, 2006 03:04 AM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

They can’t all be injured … and I doubt that collectively they have coach induced problems.

Whatever it is, it doesn’t seem to have affected the offense … yet.

One ill-timed, unthinking remark, phrase or action can do the same thing as a bad apple.

Who knows, it could be just a random happening … Years ago, I once picked 10 winners in a row; including 3 exactas and 2 trifectas … the tris were boxed but I really thought I’d developed a system that would make me rich and famous! The next 2 times out, 20 races, I increased all my bets … and cashed exactly once.

It might be some little something, that they don’t even realize, that’s triggered each time they they take the mound to start the game … something that takes time to shake … but the real cause could be anything.

I’m just an old actuary and have no ideas … but, pressure and fear of failure can do that … at the start, you’re a disaster waiting to happen; but once you’ve messed up, you’re fine. Or, in some cases, you’re fine until you run into just a little trouble … and then you collapse.

Then too, it could something catching … that snowballs … “Tim and John had it rough … I’ve got to make sure it doesn’t happen to me.” will do it every time.

You can bet that “little Bobby Dews” could give us the answer; if he wanted so to do … and I’d also bet he hasn’t been called that for about 50 years.

It’s only a few games into the season … but ir’s likely that something’s wrong when you don’t need to see the game, read the paper, watch TV or these blogs to know that the Braves probably got behind by 4-5 runs early; rebounded, came close or took the lead … and then lost it because of more walks or home runs! … I said likely.

Recent history tells us they’ll get through this okay … but, “let’s have that team meeting now rather than later guys … and discuss things … denial ain’t gettin the job done!”

By spud

April 14, 2006 05:24 AM | Link to this

please someone buy this team and spend some money this team is in desperate need of a pitching staff when the team is sold you eill see results the old saying is true you get what you pay for by sept this team will be lucky to be in 4th place

By jdutton

April 14, 2006 07:15 AM | Link to this

Dave,

How quickly you forget that Leo’s pitching staff finished first or second 12 out of 14 seasons. The Braves don’t miss Leo, what a joke. Just look at the standings.

By bill

April 14, 2006 07:21 AM | Link to this

DOB, any chance that we are overlooking a pitching statistic that could give us some hope for our starters? We have got to be leading the league in scoreless innings pitched…once we start eliminating the 4 and 5 run holes that they are putting us in everything will fall in place.

By jdutton

April 14, 2006 07:22 AM | Link to this

Glavine is a class act. He does more off the field to help children and organizations than 99% of the athletes today.We would be the lucky ones if Glavine came back.

This is another case of John S-GM and his huge ego. Glavine would have stayed for less money if John S would not have treated him like a second class citizen during the negoiations.

By Paul Hamilton

April 14, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

This braves starting pitchers are embarrasing themselves. I’m sorry but John Smoltz and Tim Hudson are paid big money to be big game pitchers. GET ER DONE! No more frillin excuses. I have never witnessed a stretch of pitching this bad by any team ever! Tim Hudson is quickly becoming a joke, don’t go down the Mike Hampton road buddie.

Oh and jdutton, Glavine is a sellout. He soldout for the most money over a team and a city that held him as its leader. Oh and lets remember correctly, the Braves made both Glavine and Maddux the highest paid pitchers in baseball at one time. The Braves showed Glavine the money in his prime, if he was the high character guy you claim he could have stayed for a couple million less. What a p******! The Braves made him a very nice offer that was just a couple million lower than the phillies made him. I will not support the team if they bring that sellout back. Period.

By Kevin

April 14, 2006 08:51 AM | Link to this

DOB - Why put Matt Diaz in the game to sac bunt when a pithcer with more experience (and success) with that particular job is sitting on the bench? Why waste a hitter with the job of bunting. Obviously hindsight is 20/20, but if the butt gets down, runner on second and Giles gets that hit the game is tied with 1 out or at least runner on 3rd with 1 out. Then a fly ball scores the tying run. Either way, Diaz’ inability to get the bunt down was second only to Davies’ horrid first inning as to why the Braves lost.

What was Bobby’s strategy there?

By Jman

April 14, 2006 08:57 AM | Link to this

I know this is a DOB blog, but I am gonna give my best impression of a Mark Bradley blog. His “I think” blogs are about the only thing are worth reading that he writes.

I think… Kenny Ray would make a great closer, and will be our closer by season’s end.

I think… Tim Hudson, John Smoltz, and John Thomson will be just fine soon.

I think… Jorge Sosa, and Wilson Betemit will not be Braves for much longer

I think… Andruw Jones will become as feared a hitter as Albert Pujols this season!

I think… Jimmy Rollins is one of the BEST hitters in baseball, and could win the MVP this year!

I think… Barry Bonds will retire by the All-Star Break, maybe sooner!

I think… Chipper Jones will bounce back after his DL stint and end up with 30+HR’s, and 100+RBI this season

I think… people are probably no longer reading this post because they are bored.

By Ron Roberts

April 14, 2006 09:12 AM | Link to this

I think….

…just about every other team in the Majors would be 8-1 if they had to play six of their first nine games against the Nationals. Big deal. We all get a crack at the Nats, and the Phils series wasn’t exactly our chance to throw our horses… we followed Thomson with Sosa and Davies!” Let’s see how Huddy and Smoltie pitches now that they’re home, in warm weather, and *I pray out of their funks, both mentally and physically.

The good news is, the bats are still there, and Frenchy looked great at the plate, last night!

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 09:25 AM | Link to this

1988 was the last time the braves starters were winless after 10 games. the mets currently lead the major leagues with a 2.84 era. john smoltz is getting old. tim hudson is washed up. sosa is fat, and not hungry. same for horam (not hungry). and davies has never been all that good, everybody loves to talk about that game against the red sox last year, but, really, it was just a 5 inning flash in the pan by a minor leaguer having a career day. thomson has been dangled by the arm as trade bait so much that i wouldn’t be surprised if his elbow tweaks again.

I’m not saying its hopeless, but bobby can manage his buns off till the cows come home and it won’t do any good until we get some starting pitching.

By BO

April 14, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

DOB I see where you are coming from and thats cool. Keep up the good work but please no Glav….

By Jason C

April 14, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this

I think we should indeed bring back Maddux to strengthen our rotation. Who knows more about pitching right now than he does? Maddux as our pitching coach would be amazing and I think he would do it after finishing his career with the Braves. I don’t see anything wrong with McDowell as long as he sticks to the pen, but when it comes to starting pitching, who knows more then Maddux? I think we miss Mazzone a lot more than we expected. I know that he can’t give them the God given talent that they have, but humans are creatures of habit and once a bad one is created, its hard to break out of it. Mazzone seemed to know just what to do to get the starters back on track. He seemed to notice the slightest change in the way they were pitching and was abele to correct before any further damage was created. McDowell has yet to prove that ability. Maddux for pitching coach 08’ and beyond!

By metsmanintheatl

April 14, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

braves pitching is a joke…METS EASILY WIN DIVISION!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

jason c., do you really think that a guy who has made more than 125 million dollars in his playing days is gonna bust his hump for pitching coach chump change?

By ernesto

April 14, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this

I think the pitching will come around, but I’m not liking what I see out of McDowell so far. I know he’s not the one missing the spots, but when Sosa pulls that bone-headed move the otehr night, where was he? When Davies is getting rocked in the first inning and leaving everything up, where’s Roger? What’s our philosophy for getting out of this? With Leo you at least knew what we were going to do - nibble at the outside to set up coming inside. There doesn’t seem to be a philosophy working right now, except try and keep it under 10 boys!

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

still got a lot of negativity vent. the braves need some cash infusion. a great organization is disintegrating before our eyes. i understand the wisdom of not overspending, but the braves do not have a legit #1 starter.

We got tim hudson because we felt he would give us a home town discount. he did, and we’ve got a guy who can’t give us 200 innings. in truth, he’d probably be better in a cooler weather city. he’s too small to hold up in the brutal summers of the atl.

Also, we never got a legit closer. if you’re not willing to pony up real money for a real closer, you’re gonna end up with chris rietsma or kenny ray for your closer. both are good solid situaional guys, but its unfair to expect guys who are rollplyers to perform like superstars.

We are also saddled with mike hampton. if this were the japanese leagues, he’d have committed seppuku long ago.

By Jman

April 14, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

If any one team is set up for the long haul of 162 games it is Atlanta. Even though the pitching is struggling now the Braves are 6 to 7 deep in potentially good starters. Look Horacio got hurt - Thomson steps right in, someone else gets hurt Chucky can fit in there. And then Horacio will be back. What happens if Pedro or Glavine gets hurt for the Mets? oh yeah, I forgot they picked up jose Lima!? It’s Lima time in NY if one of the big guys get hurt. Lima who hasnt had a winning season in close to 10 years. The Braves are running the marathon. The Mets are set up for a sprint.

By Jman

April 14, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

Not to mention - The Mets have beat up on the Marlins, and Nats. Class of the division there. The Braves had to tussle with bad weather and the 2 best team in the West! Then had to come home and play a decent East divison club. Have fun while you can Mets fans the race will be over by Labor Day! Go Braves!

By metsmanintheatl

April 14, 2006 12:11 PM | Link to this

see you first of week and you will see this is a NEW METS TEAM…philly ain’t exactly the yankees!!!!!!!!!!!!!!go METS!!!!!!!

By eric the elder

April 14, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

“You’ve got to remember that you’ve got to pitch in the first inning, not just throw,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said. “When you start a ball game it’s not a throwing contest, it’s a pitching contest.”

That’s as close to a criticism of players as anything I’ve ever heard from BC. Is the frustration building in him just as it is with the bloggers?

By Penn

April 14, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

Glenbo said:

{{Also, we never got a legit closer. if you’re not willing to pony up real money for a real closer, you’re gonna end up with chris rietsma or kenny ray for your closer. both are good solid situaional guys, but its unfair to expect guys who are rollplyers to perform like superstars.}}

Glenbo, how do you know Ray is a solid situational guy but not a closer? He may well rank as one of the top closers in the game before this year is over.

As for the Mets, they changed 20% of their team with the following five, Delgado, Wagner, Franco, Lo Duca and Nady. I don’t see them fading. The Braves can still win it but it will not be given to them. If any of you think the Mets are just going to fold like in the past perhaps you should switch to Orange juice for your favorite drink.

By Jason C

April 14, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

The Braves are without a doubt the better all around team.

C- McCann or Lo Duca?
I’ll take McCann. Lo Duca can hit for average and is good defensively as well but McCann has all the potenial in the world and is more than capable in his second year. 1B- LaRoche or Delgado? Delgado by a mile as of now. He is getting old though. 2B- Giles or Matsui/whoever Giles by a mile. hits for average and has some power. SS- Renteria or Reyes? I’ll take Renteria right now. Reyes has a ton of potenial but isnt their yet. 3B- Chipper or Wright? Wright with a hurt chipper, Chipper when healthy. Chipper has a ton of experience and is the def. of clutch.
CF- Andruw or Beltran?
Andruw. He is one of the best hitters in the game now. Beltran has up and down years while Andruw is only getting better while not going back. LF- Langerhans or Floyd? Floyd by a bit, although Langerhans has been great as of late. RF- Francouer or Whoever they send out? Francouer. Although has been in a slump, will obviously come out and be awsome.

Rotation Smoltz, Hudson, Sosa, Thompson, Ramirez, Davies or even James. or Martinez, Glavine, Heilman, Zambrano, whoever else.

Ill take the Braves by a mile for a season. After Martinez they have no one that could succeed in the playoffs. Our starters will come around.

Ill take our bullpen past the closer as well. Wagner is one of the best in the game, but before him they dont have a lot of depth. We have a lot of young arms and a few experienced ones. Devine, McBride, Lerew, Villareal and Cormier are all young and will just get better.

Ill take our bench minus Jordan over anyone else’s in Baseball!

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

Yes, it’s frustrating building.

Young Jeezy, the kool-aid tastes great. Try some.

And for those convinced this is all about Leo: Greg Maddux was a Cy Young Award winner before he came to Atlanta. Tim Hudson was the winningest pitcher in the AL over a five-year stretch before he came to Atlanta. Horacio Ramirez struggled with Leo and without him.

Leo should be given tons of credit for what he did here, especially for the reclamation projects like John Burkett and Jaret Wright and so many others, and for getting most out of guys like Sosa, who stunk before he came here and isn’t pitching very well (in case you missed it) now with Leo gone.

But…it’s just a symptom of our societal thinking, our desire to find black-and-white reasons for everything, that folks are pointing the finger at McDowell and saying that Leo’s absence is the reason for this mass suckage. It’s not, folks. There are many reasons, from injuries to cold to just plain underperforming.

But those who keep saying how Braves finished first or second in ERA for 12 years under Leo are simply leaving out a couple of other vital stats in order to strengthen and simplify their argument (again, we have to have black-and-white, no grey areas, when most things are actually grey areas). Here’s the numbers I referred to: After Braves reduced payroll, they finished NINTH in ERA in 2003. After they won it again in 2004, they finished SIXTH in 2005.

So please, don’t just ignore those stats. Ninth in 2003. I’ll wager that by the end of this season, they will be that high in NL ERA.

That said, I’m not defending or making excuses for the staff’s work so far this year. It’s been terrible. If the starters come around at least to decent, before they wear out the bullpen or the hitters’ patience in them, then the Braves should be fine. If.

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

metsmanintheatl, even if the mets could make it to the world series, they’d lay down like jailed lady convicts on work release to the yankees or whovever else makes it from the american league. wagner is old and everybody knows pedro and glavine will be used up come september. the braves will use the mets like toilet paper after the season gets in gear. i’m just griping because i’m a braves fan. mets fans are like women who don’t wear underwear at a singles bar, they get easily excited.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this

Meant to say, yes, it’s frustration building. Not frustrating building. Although it is also frustrating building, say, the furniture you get at IKEA when you realize that some damn small piece is missing after you’ve put together almost an entire cabinet and now have to return it.

Not that I purchase furniture at IKEA. Not me. Only the finest for me. But from what I hear from others….

By Choppin Bob

April 14, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

I’m startin to think we should start games with the closers and finsh with the starters. Take away the 1 bad inning each is having and they’re actually pitching pretty well.

By James

April 14, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

Its real funny to see these Met fans already writing the Braves off.Same ole same ole. Every Year the same thing.I remember When the Braves were in the West Div and the Giants had over a 10 game lead in July and The manager Dusty Baker was writing the Braves off then. The Giants that year won 103 games but still did not make the playoffs because of them Braves. It don’t matter if the end of April the Braves are 10 games out they will come back. Its a long season and kinda premature to write anyone off just yet. Ask the Astros from last year. Braves usually start off slow and get hot when the weathers does.And we are bult for the long haul not for a sprint.Where we are expected to win the rest of the div is hoping to win and it will be that way till the division is won by some other team. Facts are Facts.Bottom Line is we have in our clubhouse what they don’t have and clearly envied.It Is what it Is!And as proven over the last few years (Yankees,Mets) Money and Talent won’t win you nothing unless you have What the Braves got. We might have just One Championship with 14 straight Div Championships. But you ask any player in MLB and they would tell you they would rather have THAT than a chance than maybe 2 or 3 chances in 14 years. GO BRAVES!!!

By mMarc

April 14, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

DOB, my only problem with continuing to argue that Leo has nothing to do with the starters going into a tailspin, is that he left and they did. It’s easy to point to the ninth place finish in 03, Leo wasn’t perfect. However, if the Braves starters were leading the league ion ERA, it would be, “see they didn’t need Leo”. The starters stink and Leo isn’t here, pretty strange don’t you think, Not only do the starters stink, this is the worst a Braves staff has been to open a season, after 10 games since 88. The thing that is troubling is that a coaching staff is supposed to figure out an issue, and get a team to improve. It has been 10 games and I see no improvement from the starters. I don’t want to blame Mcdowell, he could be a great coach, however, he has never coached at the majopr league level. They let a guy walk with decades of experience for a guy with none. You get what you pay for. I guess all I am saying is Leo should have been locked up. You want to hire a guy with no experience, he is going to have to learn on the job. Roger may not know how to coach these guys out of a slump, he may learn, but is Leo was hear I guarentee he would have ways of dealing with this. Things to work on in practice. All the fans have gotten is BC saying “you can’t just throw in the first inning, you have to pitch.” . There is a brilliant piece of baseball observation. Problem solved, that ought to get the starters out of there funk I got a couple of good ones, “score more runs than the other team”, “runs a team scores in the first inning can be just as important, as runs scored later in the game”, I think the easy thing to do is to say this has nothing to do with Leo leaving, that an assistant coach can’t have that much effect on a team’s performance. I think his contributions and success rate, far out number two mediocre team ERA’s and Horacio Ramirez saying the pitchers will be fine. So fay after ten games without Leo the pitching has been terrible, and that is something that can’t be overlooked.

By Kirby

April 14, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, in his last comment, referred to the “pitching-rich” Braves.

I wish that description still applied. Smoltz has pitched 12 innings, given up 15 hits and 4 walks. Hudson has pitched 8 innings, given up 14 hits, and 6 walks.

And should we be concerned that Smoltz has commented about his inability to grip the ball properly? Is there a physical problem?

As for the other starters, if John Thomson, whom the Braves were looking to trade, can pitch like he did two years ago, that looks like heaven right now.

As for Sosa, Davies, and Ramirez,not only have they pitched dreadfully, they give no indication of being effective back-end starters.

“Pitching-rich” was Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine, year after year.

Our current starters, all of them, have been hit at will, and have walked far too many batters.

If Smoltz and Hudson don’t pitch up to potential, I fear #15 is out of reach, because I don’t see any of the other starters as a dominant pitcher this year.

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, i think leo was the guy with stones who would get in the pitching staff’s face. bobby would let’em go golfing in spring training after they finished their workouts like the good cop to leo’s bad cop. now, you’ve got nice guy bobby teamed with genial funny man roger. some chemistry imbalances are likely to occur. i don’t think it’s all leo, but i know his eye is missed. that, and there’s no money for a top flight #1 starter or a money closer. DOB, do you really think that hudso is worth the jack?

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

mMarc, so what’s your answer? Leo’s gone, and ain’t coming back. Roger’s here, and he’s not getting fired.

Should we continue to ruminate over Leo’s absence, ad nauseum, and just discount the views of almost EVERY SINGLE PITCHER that he’s not the reason they stink right now and that his absence isn’t a big deal. Do you and all the other bloggers and myself know more than the pitchers and Bobby and John Schuerholz, who all thought and continue to say it wasn’t nearly the big deal that fans and media made it out to be when Leo left? Because you know they could have kept him if they wanted to, right?

What do you think, Marc? He’s gone. He’s not coming back. So should we just sit here and talk about it forever? I’m just asking. I mean, if you don’t get tired of talking about it, and tired of arguing that the players and manager and GM are all wrong and you and so many others are right about Leo, then have at it. Let’s just keep discussing it forever.

Or rather, you keep discussing it. It’s starting to bore me a bit, quite honestly. The Leo topic, I mean. Not the pitching staff sucking, because that’s the overriding concern right now. But to say it’s all about Leo is to say it’s hopeless, because he’s NOT COMING BACK, PERIOD. So is it hopeless? In which case, no sense even discussing the other factors that might be contributing to this mess.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

Glennbo, trust me, your good cop/bad cop scenario couldn’t possibl be further from reality. If you think Leo was the disciplinarian who “wouldn’t let them play golf,” etc,, well, I’m not going to throw anybody under the bus. I’m just going to say, you know absolutely nothing about the topic. That’s simply wrong. Couldn’t be more wrong. Sorry, but I’ve seen it. I know. That’s not the case, period.

Is Hudson worth the jack? Probably not. Definitely not if he pitches as he has for the past two-plus seasons. But you know what, it’s guaranteed jack. It ain’t football. You can’t cut him. And unless he turns it on, no other team is going to want to trade for him at the current rate, I’d imagine. So deal with it. He’s here.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this

I realize after reading my last two posts that I’ve again been a bit harsh for the sensitive types. Hopefully Glennbo and Marc aren’t among them. But I’m just getting a bit tired of the topic. So maybe I should just not respond and let you folks figure out the Leo Factor. I’ve stated my case. I tend to agree with the pitchers on this one, because they know more than I do. And Bobby certainly knows more than I do about this and every other baseball topic. So I’ll defer. But if you guys have the answers, that’s cool. Maybe you can convince them to bring Leo back, to buy out his contract in Baltimor and pay him more than the nearly $500,000 he’s making there.

But don’t hold your breath.

I’m going to get on the motorcycle now and enjoy the sunshine. Got a night off with another 10-day road trip around the corner.

Later, folks.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

April 14, 2006 01:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, are these people not panicking about nothing.

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

at least frenchy looked good last night. if giles cud keep up a .400 obp and if andruw could put up 80% of the numbers he put up last year, things could be cool. renteria looks good. laroche swings hard. langy is the benefactor of all of frenchy’s high profile - he should still get a good payday someday. and mccann is mccool. and chipper, if he earns half his pay, he’ll knock in 100 runs. i feel good. except that we have a pitching staff that can’t keep it real.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

April 14, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or is 10 games into the season too early to be spreading doom and gloom?

By Marc

April 14, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

Meant to be Marc. Had some typos before, sorry. DOB, I don’t believe I know more than you or any of the Braves pitchers, or top brass. I was merely responding to what I read from you, and some of the other bloggers. I never said it was hopeless., and I know HE IS NOT COMING BACK. I don’t think we need to discuss Leo leaving ad Nausem. But, come on we are only ten games into the season, and the starters are having a lot of troubles. All I was saying, was that it is easier to just dismiss Leo as gone, and that he didn’t really mean much. Come on DOB, of course the pitchers and most of the top brass, are going to say Leo leaving is fine, that they will be fine without him. I don’t put a lot of stock into those comments. What are they goig to say to reporters, such as yourself, and the fans? They certainly are not going to say, “without Leo we are a terrible team”, “Leo meant everything, what are we going to do without him”, “We will never be able to pitch for another coach again”. The players and manager are goign to say everything will be fine, we will be fine. I just think that a guy who had that much success, and worked damn hard to produce a winning pitching staff, should be respected, and it is quite possible that the starters woes, at least partly, can be attributed to the loss of a pitching coach that was with the team for two decades.

That said, I am all for moving on, sorry if a very relevant issue bores you. I use this blog as an outlet. I pitched in high school and college, bad weather, and the pressure of lifting a staff out of a slump can cause bad outings. These things are sure to be as much as, or more, of a cause for the slump as Leo leaving. I love this team, and have since I was 5-years-old. I will continue to praise them when they do well, and point out the problems when they are going bad. That is what I think a blog is about. If music can be discussed regularly(by the way, I love your recomenations, I have gone on itunes to get a bunch), than certainly if the subject of Leo comes up, from me or anyone else, than I think indulging it is not so painful. There definitely does not need to be any condescension. I am college educated, just like you, if a topic that I feel relates to the issue at hand bores you than I am sorry. I respect what you do, and the work you put in. However, I was not the only one discussing Leo, and if people want to bring him up, who cares. This is a blog, whatever people feel is relevant should be discussed. The pitching struggles, bring Leo to mind, when they do better, I can assure you I will not be discussing Leo, or McDowell. With that said, let’s get a good start form Hudson tonight, hitters keep hitting, bloggers, keep blogging.

By tyyosh

April 14, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, you will miss this probably while out in sunshine, but on another note then, We were there last night and saw you give out one of those awards pre-game. How special to have this group of great players, coaches, manager, GM. I am sad that the fans are not more into things like this. (Small crowd, somewhat nonchalant over the whole thing). How would Yankee fans handle a ceremony like that one?
Man, I wish everyone remembered what it was like before 1991. Looking up at the Dodgers wondering why they were always so much better from management down to players down to farm teams. Wondering if we would ever have any success whatsoever.

By TennesseePaul

April 14, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t say it is the abscense of Leo. Only one team has Leo right now. Looking at the rankings, more than one team is better than the Braves (starting rotation). So maybe it isn’t so much that Leo is gone, but who replaced him. I think there are other good, possibly great, pitching coaches out there. Roger might be one of them. But right now Roger is the only new peice to this rotation from last year and right now it isn’t looking sharp.
I’ll give him credit: The Bullpen is doing well. But the starting pitching is horrible. Someone has to own up to it. Where does the buck stop? Bobby can pull the starters and make sure that they don’t break an arm from over use. But I think it’s the Pitching Coaches job to go out there and correct mechanical flaws or pitch tipping or talk to the guy and calm him down. I’ve never seen Bobby do this. And I don’t see Roger doing this.

This may be Rogers style. I certainly hope it pays off. Maybe he is pulling that Robert Duval — Days of Thunder test. You give me 50 laps your way, then do 50 my way. I hope so. I hope this is just the pitchers burning the tires in 4 innings and then they go out and do it his way and last 6+ innings. But it’s frightening. It’s sad to watch right now. Painful. And Roger is the only new addition.

So no, I wouldn’t agree that it is the loss of Leo. Leo has his own struggles right now in Baltimore. But how long does this have to go on before it is OK to start asking about Roger? What’s the grace period, 3 starts from each and every starter? Is 2 starts too few to start asking questions?

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

April 14, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

I just don’t think two starts is enough to go on. If this is still happening in May, then we have a problem.

By jimmy smith, journalist

April 14, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith confirms what already stated by dob. leo is gone. jimmy smith is more genteel in saying so. mcdowell was selected over many in-house candidates. must know something. jimmy smith reports he knows sinker. if he teaches sinker to certain ballplayers staff will be improved. right now, staff not impressive. everyone saying bullpen is better. better than what? new guys cormier and villarreal giving up runs. remlinger over-used. james, too. fear of aussie compels jimmy smith to stay away from -and have not asked him about out pitch. need more pitchers with out pitch - not “hit-out” pitch.

By TennesseePaul

April 14, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

Robert: I would agree if it were one or two pitchers. But this is every pitcher and 10 starts total and nothing has changed with any of them. Smoltz is the only one lasting long enough and Thomson was in the pen. Maybe that’s what they need; rumors of trades, tweaked elbows and some bullpen time. This can’t continue for the whole season. Everyone will be worn out by the all star break. The defenders for running all over the place catching up to the hits. The offense for attempting to overcome early deficits. The bullpen for having to mop up from the 4th inning on. And the starters for tossing 100 pitches and never accomplishing anything.

Whatever it is, I hope they are on it tonight. Hudson goes for start 3. If he is as bad as his first two starts… well then would it be OK to question Roger?

By jimmy smith, journalist

April 14, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith agrees with scribe, much culture in press box. culture for cdc study. jimmy smith not well received in press box yesterday. have baby seal with me dressed as young fan. fan wearing credentials. seal makes some noise, sure - nothing worse than normally heard when group of journalists in tight quarters. finally, young journalist says, “if that’s your son, he must have an ugly momma”. journalist jimmy smith loses composure and discussion centers on respective journalists’ mommas. finally, old, wise, scribe wanders by and says, “hello young fella, enjoying the game?” this warms jimmy smith’s heart. seal looks up and bites old journalist, draws much blood. jimmy smith now reporting from stands. banned from press box for three games. serving suspension like gentleman journalist. today, by pool again with baby seal. baby seal cute and girls like to rub. every journalist needs baby seal. now, baseball. chipper jones speaking with francoeur suggests, “uh, hit ball.” seems to have worked.

By dannycardwell

April 14, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

tonight will be my first game of the year. hudson will pitch 6 good innings giving up 2 runs. braves will win by 3 runs. we will all be happy. please boo francouer more often. it keeps him out of slumps.

By glennbo

April 14, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, i’m posting on this just old blog in case you read it. i am not the sensitive type. but what came out of the mouths of some of the pitchers was that mazzone was gruff and blunt. i’m not implying that there was a concerted series of head games, just that leo did intimidate a bit more than bobby.you’re right, i don’t know jack about what goes on in the spring training atmosphere, but the braves pitchers knowing more about what is wrong with them is kind of like a doctor examining himself - he can’t see everything.

Didn’t mean to beat the dead horse into submission. i do like your blogg. (lucky you, that and 5.00 will get you a small latte at starbucks).

Have you ever heard of the spanic boys? (peace offering)

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

No peace offering needed. I’m down with all you folks. It’s cool. I love this stuff, and the discussions, etc. And Marc, I certainly am not going to tell you what you can and can’t talk about. It’s everybody’s blog. I don’t mean to condescend, or to suggest it’s irrelevant, etc. I just don’t see what more we can discuss regarding Leo, since he’s gone and all and this is the situation we’ve got.

Just bought Josh Ritter’s new one, Massive Attack’s greatest hits (the import thing with the DVD, etc.), Built to Spill’s great new one, and new one from The Appleseed Cast, a hard-edged emo band from god’s country, Lawrence, Ks.

Neko Case tonight. Can’t wait. I plan to propose to her.

By TennesseePaul

April 14, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Plan to propose… Let us know how it goes.

By Marc

April 15, 2006 04:03 AM | Link to this

DOB, thanks fo rthe response. Better outing from Hudson, maybe next time around he will get the earned runs down to three.

By Eric

April 15, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

DOB’s getting married? Poss? Congrats.

By David

April 15, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

Anyone who blasts Glavine for doing hid job is a small-minded individual…Every bad thing that has happened to baseball is a direct resukt of Management…either through bad decision making or through lack of spine.

By Penn

April 16, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this

“Every bad thing” David? That is covering a lot of ground. Was the black sox scandal the fault of management? Did management throw those games?

By Peewee

April 17, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

David who are you to call someone small-minded for blasting Glavine? “Every bad thing” that has happened in baseball? Sounds to me you’re the one with a problem, maybe you been using Bonds trainer .I bet you agree with McKinney hitting the guard. Get a Life!