Braves

By Matthew

April 19, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

Tim Hudson is starting off well-three Ks through two innings. Now if we can just get a few runs for him.

just a note: the Braves starters (minus Sosa) have thrown exceptionally well lately. Smoltz: CG 4 hit SO, Thomson: 6 innings: 1 hit, no runs, Davies: CG, four hits, one run. If my math is right, that gives those three starters 24 innings with one run allowed! Not bad!

By Matthew

April 19, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

by the way, thanks DOB for making an Arkie Braves fan to visit with fellow Tomahawk choppers-great blog!

By Matthew

April 19, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

should say, “making a way for an Arkie Braves to visit” sorry

By journalist jimmy smith

April 19, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this

bobby’s playing only two regulars and one of them is hitting .197. journalist was told earlier the braves know how to hit glavine, but none of the ones who know how seem to be in the lineup. diaz certainly doesn’t know how. did tp say anything to him after that at-bat?

journalist asks bloggers: with chipper out, renteria out, giles out, who comes up? where will bobby play everyone?

By Nicholas Irwin

April 19, 2006 01:57 PM | Link to this

This may actually be the worst Braves lineup in history. I mean ever. And yes, I’m aware that we were beyond terrible in the late 80s.

By deepinmetterritory

April 19, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

You can say I jinxed it, but I’d love a no no. I’m at work…here in New York surrounded by mets fan, and what a sweet thing it would be for huddy to give us the first one we’ve had in a while after that awful start.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 19, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

exclusive from jimmy smith - journalist offers bobby cox cheetos from journalist’s bag (will never, never do that again!) and asks manager about today’s lineup. skipper replies, “bobby dews usually makes out the lineup card but no one has seen him since monday, i just put jordan in there and surrounded him with love.” journalist is uncovering much bigger story … bobby dews is brains of team. more later.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

Huddy is dealing! but so is Glavine against this terrible line up.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

Have the Braves ever had a Perfect game?

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

“Pete Orr. At least he tries.”

(Paid for by the Committee to Elect Pete Orr for Richmond Hill, Ontario Dog Catcher.)

By Jman

April 19, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

DANGIT!!! I JINXED IT!!!

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this

Someone jinxed it. Who was it? Was it Joe? Was it Chip? Was it me? Was it some of you?

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:17 PM | Link to this

And why do we have to live through Jordan’s experiment at first base? Because Bobby Cox is strange.

By glennbo

April 19, 2006 02:18 PM | Link to this

jordan is such a good backup 1stbaseman. bobby needs psyche eval.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this

That guy’s slow. Good throw, Diaz.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this

LaRoche would have made that.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU DIAZ!!!!

By Choppin Bob

April 19, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

JORDAN IS SUCH A PIECE OF GARBAGE! HE SUCKS. HE BLOWS. WHAT ELSE CAN I SAY. SOMEONE PLEASE SHOOT ME!

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this

Well Hudson has a one hit shut-out… better warm up the pen.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

Andruw. That’s all I gotta say.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this

YEAH!!!!!!!!! Way to go Andruw!

By Jman

April 19, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

Yep. End of the road for Huddy, time to put in this weeks reclaimation project.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

As you can see from my comments, I prefer minimalist play-by-play.

By BO

April 19, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

PENA can pick’em (2) great plays. Thanks a. Jones…

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this

First hit was off his shoe laces. Impressive.

By Choppin Bob

April 19, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this

Side bet BC puls Huddy?

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this

I take that back… Gameday is letting me down.

By Matthew

April 19, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

Man I am stoked! Huddy is lights out, Andruw is THE MVP, and the Bad News Bears patchwork infield is holding up admirably. Three complete games in four games? Man, that would be great.

Go Bravos!

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

Nice Willy B!! Nice!

By RW

April 19, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

Where are all the people who wanted to trade Andruw? This guy has hit his stride and is still the best CF to ever play the game.

RW…

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

Huddy obviously heard me when I suggested he give up one or no runs.

By Choppin Bob

April 19, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

Huddy looks SICK! If BC pulls him I will pull a Jeff Gillooly.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Yeah, DOB. If these guys would take your advice more often, they’d have Hank and the Lips on their iPods and be twirling shutouts left and right.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Yes DOB he must have heard you. I kind of figured he was due for a good start and Glavine was due for a bad one, but Glavine still had a great start, Huddy’s was just better.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

Say it aint so!?!?! Reitsma!? NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

Let’s do this Hudson!

By george

April 19, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

Did Leo return to Atlanta??? Oh, you mean the Braves starters don’t really miss him. All that talk by the whiners a few days ago about the demise of the Braves starters because Leo was gone. Where are they now ??? Seems like all but Sosa don’t miss Leo at all, and I’m not sure Leo could do anything with him right now.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

Hudson’s thrown 81 pitches. Boy, it sure is a lot better when you’re throwing 81 in eight innings instead of in four.

By Chambers

April 19, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

HEY METS FANS…YOU ARE PATHETIC!!! What a joke. Your orgainization, your fans, your expectations…all one big stinky joke. HAHAHA…see you Tommy Boy. This thing was never in doubt. Another championship is in the bag. I am going out tonight to celebrate. Because at the end of the day, these are the Mets. They never win anything…because they are the Mets. What did you expect? They’ll finish third again and go spend more money and still suck. Go sit on your collective thumbs, New York. And congrats on the hot start against the freaking Expos, (yes they’ll always be the expos) twice, the Marlins and the Brewers. Man, I really thought you guys were going to win them all this year. I am sorry for the rant, but I am sick of this FOUR LETTERED NETWORK trumped up fairy tale about a NL East race. Has anyone been paying attention the last 14 freaking years? This is no race. These are the Mets. In baseball, its a bunch of high salary, gaurenteed contracts that will quit by July. The younger we get, the better we get. Heck, these clowns couldnt even play with our B Team today. And so what if we bow out in the first round? Better than being a Mets fan. Or how bout the shame of being a Phils fan? Could you imagine that? So here’s to us Braves fans. Enjoy being the olny orgainization this side of Mexico who can pop the cork in May.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

How about all the talk about how Huddy was in decline, and that he wasnt the same pitcher that he was with Oakland? Where have all of those talkers gone?

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this

Well…we have quite a predicament.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

Yikes. That was close. Hudson got lucky.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

What was that!?!?! Was that amazing? Gameday doesn’t tell me.

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Come on, Hudson. Keep the ball down.

By PEEWEE

April 19, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

YEAH!!!! I LOVE IT!!!!

I love taking these meaningless games! This was so freaking huge. We came into their house. hung with them against their best pitchers. And shut. them. down. I love it!
GO BRAVES!

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

Good job, Hudson. He got Wright to ground out after Delgado just missed a homer in the previous at-bat.

By ernesto

April 19, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

HUGE! If we get that Hudson and the Davies we saw last night all year long, it’s going to be a whole lot of fun to be a Braves fan. I love beating the Mets! (And with our bench players too.)

By Chop Chop

April 19, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this

1 hour and 58 minutes today. That’s old-school NL baseball, folks.

By Carolina Lady

April 19, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Wow. Smoltzie. Davies. Hudson. Francouer is out of the Twilight Zone. Andruw is loving life without Chipper. Everyone seems to have stepped up their ‘game’. Can I breath now?? :-)

By Choppin Bob

April 19, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

wheres that cat that said these games mean nothing? i have noticed a trend though. the more runs our pitchers give up, the more runs our offense scores and vice versa. When it comes time to hit in 1-2 run games, we need to produce. We did have our B squad in there today, but that was mainly because Jordan was in the line up.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

So what’s the headline in NY tomorrow?

Braves still own Mets?

Who’s your Daddy, Mets??

If Andruw Jones had hit the ball 5 more feet on Monday night off of Pedro the game would have been tied, and this could have possibly been a sweep?

We take 2 out of 3 from the NEW Kings of the NL East at their Home ballpark WITHOUT perenniel Met killers Chipper Jones, and Edgar Renteria. Go Braves!

Too bad we still have to play them 15 more times. Braves will win the division but this is still gonna be a dog fight of a division race. It wont be easy.

By MEB

April 19, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

WOOOOHOOOOO!!! Man I love baseball and it’s only April. Great game Huddy and lets keep the momentum going against the Nats. Andruw is on track for MVP and he needs to keep it up as Pujols is a beast.

By Mark

April 19, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

DOB , you were saying one or two runs ? Eat crow dude. We have a pitching staff , we have a pitching staff , lol. Yes , we have had a pitching staff since day one of spring training , it just took a while to get them in a groove. DEFENSE < DEFENSE < DEFENSE and one long ball by Andruw was the diference in this game , o yea and a hell of a pitching performance by Tim Hudson. Hats off to Tom Glavine he pitched well enough to win most games. Smoltz , Hudson , Davies and Thomson are set and the fifth spot is still up for grabs. Now , if we can just get healthy. Nice win guys , way too go….. Bravos !!!!

By geauxbraves2000

April 19, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Wow.

By Choppin Bob

April 19, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this

Jman,

Good topic: Tomorrow’s Headlines:

Not so Brave? Braves still Kings Who were we kidding? Wright was Wrong! Pontiac names new car after Hudson! No Chipper, No Problem, Wright? Wrong! We shouldn’t have openned our mouths!

By Jman

April 19, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

How long will this Brian Jordan crap go on before someone wakes up and realizes he’s old and cant cut it anymore?

By Jamie

April 19, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

I would like to see the Mets fans excuses for losing this one. I mean c’mon look at the lineup we threw at them today. Excellent job!!

By rob

April 19, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

I love this team. We came in with a weak lineup and got it done.

Shut up Mets! Shut up ESPN! You go Braves! Keep on owning everyone!

By rob

April 19, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

I’m so happy! I just finished law school finals and the Braves put their foot back down on the Mets’ throat! How happy can I beany happier than today?

By rob

April 19, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

or drunker lol

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

C’mon, SJA, give us one of your “**GO METS!!!” digs, for ol’ times sake!

By Cincybravefan

April 19, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Wow, what a great win, but reading these blogs is almost as fun. You guys are seriously happy. Thanks for the double lift.

By jon

April 19, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

awesome call DOB, awesome game huddy. i vote that we put DOB in a protective bubble wrap . what happens if the beat writer goes on the DL? seriously, it seems to be spreading!

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

Maybe now we can go fatten up on the Nats and deal with the MUTTS on our own turf later this month.

But dammit, you Atlanta-area-based Braves fans better BE there for that series. I’m too far out to get to the Ted for every meaningful series, but it’s just freaking sickening to see Mets’ and Cubs’ and (insert playoff opponent here) fans negate the home crowd with their cheering sections. I find it hard to believe there aren’t 50,000 Braves fans who can make it to these games within a short drive of the stadium. PACK THE PARK AND ROCK THE CHOP when the Mutts come-a-calling.

By Jman

April 19, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

I live 100 miles out, but I am trying to get some good seats for that series.

By Choppin Bob

April 19, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

Hey Jman if I could go I would probably be drunk by the 2nd inning and the seat quality wouldn’t matter. It would also help me tink every pitch was a strike!

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

I live 3500 miles out but I still make it to the big series. It’s the frikin Braves! All I need is a job in Atlanta that can afford me season tickets. Keeping my fingers crossed… bound to find it sooner or later.

By Robert

April 19, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

SMACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That is the sound of A. Jones hitting a hommer off of Tommy boy and the sound of the Mets and NY being slapped back into reality.

Got to love it.

By doc

April 19, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

the season is long but it is great to know that the world has returned to normal if even for a day.

guess andruw can stay a few more games. has anyone heard what his risp is yet? does anyone really care, finally?

By Andy

April 19, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

I know just about everyone knows this—I am just repeating it for my own enjoyment—like watching sportscenter to watch the highlights agian kind of thing—-but (forgetting about Sosa for the moment) last 4 starters(besides sosa) 3 complete games and a 1 hitter through 6. That will do —to say the least. We have been in almost all the losses we have had this year—we have lost all of our games by 1 or 2 runs(except one game I think)—-I think the starters are angry—esp thompson—they want to make a statement—our whole infield is hurt—the reserves want to make an impression—chipper and renteria will be back soon—-giles I think will be longer than everyone thinks. Of the next six games we have with the mets—if we can dominate them the NY media will get in their heads so much(as they always do) telling them they are the same ole mets—I would just love that.

By Bob

April 19, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

DOB, the new AJC Blog format is confusing!

This is disturbing … Bring Leo back … unless Roger does something about the starting pitching … another 3 hitter; some of you guys are right, Hudson has lost it; why he’s no better than that “Rookie” that pitched last night!

At least they improved on the Smoltz 4 hit job … hopefully, it’s just that he’s older and it may take him a little longer to get in a grove.

This is the second game in a row with only one error … that’s good, but we can’t afford to do that with subs like Diaz in the game; remember, young teams always have trouble responding to pressure, especially this one.

One of Bobby’s biggest worries has to be with the relievers, nothing’s worse than than a rusty pen.

With all the injuries to the infield, everybody’s forgetting the outfield … Andruw only hit one homerun today and that was with nobody on. I’m worried about his health and conditioning, it may not not be excessive fat, but just tired from carrying all that excessive weight.

Finally, would somebody get Sosa an English-Spanish dictionary and tell hem for me … “You didn’t have to be nice to Carlos Delgado just becasue Bobby said he owns you … I promise that he’s not going to be the new team owner!

Jimmy Smith’s doesn’t understand what it is to plagiarize … but I do: “Oh man, what a game!”.

Jimmy, Penn, In case you’re interested and didn’t see them, I sent responses to your earlier posts to the previous Blog … that is, if you’re able to access them under what appears to be a new format.

Jimmy, once you prompt me, I recall all … but, I recall nothing about one of them … can you guess which one?

Penn’s recall is fantastic. far better than mine … my ole grey cells, they ain’t what they used to be … bet he knows.

I don’t know your tastes in music … but truth is truth and good music is good music … but none is better than the first song I ever learned … “Jesus loves me” … an Oldie but Goodie.

And no one but me will rembember or care but you’d have liked Bass Singer “Big Jim Waites” (my “country” Brown of all day singings) … regardless of your taste in music!!

later …

By tim

April 19, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

All I can say is what a fantastic job Hudson did today with some exceptional play by the newcomers. By the way, no other team in the National League has a complete game, and the Braves have 3! Go Braves!!

By Miles

April 19, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this

with the exception of Sosa, looks like the rotation is back in form. Last start for each SP Thomson 6IP 1H 0ER 0BB 6K (leads league in ERA)

Smoltz 9IP 4H 0ER 2BB 4K

Davies 9IP 3H 1ER 1BB 6K

Hudson 9IP 3H 1ER 1BB 6K

Bullpen ranks 6th in the league in ERA if you take out Devine’s two horrible appearances.

So does anyone else still think that McDowell should be fired?

By Jman

April 19, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

I still cant believe we beat them with that skeleton crew of an offense we had out there today. Too bad it isnt September. One of my favorite games I ever attended was back in 1999 between the Braves and Mets. Late September Day game, Seats right behind Mets dugout. 3rd game of a 3 game set, Braves going for sweep. Chipper hit 2 HR’s that day. I’ll never forget Bobby Valentine coming to the top step of the dugout and looking into the stands as the fans were rabidly yelling sweep, sweep, sweep, and waving the brooms. Man was that a great day! I think I’ll get the chance to repeat that this year. Too bad Bobby V is no longer the manager. He was so much fun to rag on.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 19, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith is inspired by braves lineup today.

journalist takxs lxttxr off kxyboard to sxx what it is likx to play without bxst linxup. journalist fortunatx to havx “x” to work with instxad of brian jordan.

hint, bob: west peachtree - close to crawford long. many posts lost on blog this afternoon. high blog activity with extreme game excitement. has anyone seen bobby dews? did julio franco scare anyone today? he used to get that hit for the braves. journalist is now off to get cheese sandwich -not bad with pickle spear and chips. journalist goes crazy after victory, will order bacon on cheese sandwich.

By MGL

April 19, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

Well, the “would be” 2006 Division Champoin Mets team should have something to think about after the Braves showing this series. I guess maybe that strong opening against the Nats and Fish might not have been the best indicator of the 2006 season. It will be interesting to see how they are doing when they get to Atlanta on the 28th after 7 games on the coast. Plus they have a nice 6 hour plane ride tonight and a late game tomorrow in SD - Trachsel vs Peavy

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

Mets are the fastest team in history to gain a 5 game lead over the next team.

I guess now they are the fastest in history to lose one as well. See ya in a week Mets. Let us know how it is to play some real competition.

By geechee

April 19, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

This series has shown that Braves’ fans should just sit back and enjoy the season. Let Bobby run the team as he sees best. As far as the talk about Jordan,I agree he is not what he used to be but sometimes there is more to a player than his work on the field. Brian Jordan is admired by his fellow players and provides much needed leadership to a very young team which many in here do not take the time to consider.

By Ace

April 19, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this

Now that the team is getting into its groove…. can we start talking about smoothing out the rough edges by ditching Jordan and Orr for Jurries and Pena?

By dannycardwell

April 19, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this

im going to have to get some steel toe boots. all these people jumping on and off the bandwagon are killing my feet. somebody tell sosa what happened to andruw jones when he started coming into camp in shape. im glad i already have my tickets for the mets. looks like its going to be crowded. give pete orr time. its hard to hit for average when you only seldom play.he, pena, and betemet make a good trio. i would leave chipper on the bench until he is completely healed. i can imagine the mets got the wind took out of their sails today. as long as the boys on espn keep picking them or the phillies ahead of us were ok.

By woogidyboogidy

April 19, 2006 07:07 PM | Link to this

Hey dob, When’s huddy gonna start again? I live in chi-town and plan on making it up to see the bravos take on the brew crew, but I want to see huddy pitch, especially after today. Thanks. Also, Andruw going to right - what a good sign that is. He’s the most dangerous hitter in the NL East when He’s going the other way, plus he hit that slider out on Tues night. Good to see him pounding the ball. oh yea, as for the mets fast start, Remember the Dodgers last year? (12-2) Last thing I promise. Sosa is getting better, He’s just not there quite yet. I think with the regular defense on Monday night he wins that game, honestly how many balls dit betemit bobble? Sosa threw 42 of 60 for strikes. See ya

By geechee

April 19, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this

woogidyboogidy, looking at a calendar,I would say that Hudson should probably be starting against the Brewers on the 25th but that is just an educated guess.That was a good point you made about Sosa by the way.

By GAW

April 19, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t wish Wright’s day on my worst enemy——unless he were a met.

By SJA

April 19, 2006 08:51 PM | Link to this

OK Ron Roberts - here goes, just for you……everytime I slam the salami to your ol’ lady she yells……….GO METS!!!…

By Klesko

April 19, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this

Penn:

The folks got here, saw the Braves did well today, bout time Hudson put together a complete game(not in innings, but in performance). Maybe he has shaken off the funk that he was in and will start pitching the way he did with Oakland.

Good to hear from you

By Limerick One

April 19, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

There’s a blogger named SouthernJackass Who insulted someone else’s lass It’s obvious his member Is as small as an ember And he keeps it with his head up his a**

By MGL

April 19, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this

SJA - get real, what you meant to say was every time you pushed your vienna sausage, she said “when will you quit talking the big game like the Mets and perform like a Brave”

By Andy

April 19, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

woodidtybodity? I wanted to thank you for saying that about Sosa—I thought he pitched better—and he seemed more like he did last year—-he just has hot and then cold innings—he’s just not getting out of the cold innings as well so far this year—He has to goto the pen though—no where else for him after Ho Ram comes back—-and if HoRam doesn’t pitch well right away—then its time for James. I don’t see Sosa a starter for us next year—(we have Smotlz, Hudson, Hampton, Davies, AND THEN Ho Ram/James/a few others) so if he’s not in our future(except as insurance for an injury) then see if “the closer” role with inspire him since “regular” relief seems to not bring out his best stuff.

By MGL

April 19, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

Andy - I think Sosa will get one more chance, probably in Mil next week. If he does not get the job done, he’s toast, and should be.

By Bob

April 19, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

Now Jimmy, you’ll notice that I did get “if you can’t see your tread, see gordy!”.

I remember “don’t cuss, phone us” too … I was lucky to have two pants; forget the suit! Actually, daddy knew Mr. George Muse before he opened his first Muse’a and he always sent me there to get my suits cause we got a discount … that is, in the old days before he got rich and famous. We did sometimes get clothes from the Sewells, in Breman or Villa Rica. I remember the advertising but not who sold them … don’t know why Hagar Slacks comes to mind.

Daddy owned a Model “T” but the first one I remember was our 39 Ford that we had until after the war. It was reliable … you could always count on flat tires … but it wasn’t “the old reliable” Model A.

I dated Minnie Quarts once but she was more of a dog than a cow … besides, I told you we drank Mathis milk! I knew another Miss Minnie … Pearl that is; she was a quality lady … nothing cheap or imatation about her … cousin George would have called her Minnie Ivory.

I dated “piney woods pete” too … that was her pen name; Minnie Quarts’ daughter. No, but he was a funny, funny man … wrote for this site’s sponsor; may have some of his old stuff somewhere.

I grew up with the Constitution myself … hated it when they combined … had to be a Communist plot! However, another good Journal product is Louis Grizzard … and one friend of mine calls me Lou junior … not because of how I write but how I talk .. can you imagine that?!

I almost forgot, although I was introduced to the world at Crawford W Long, but I don’t remember very much about that experience … so your hint didn’t help much; I’ll call and ask Minnie.

Oh yeah, someone said that Bobby was wasting one today … with all the subs and all … which one was he talking about?

By Bob

April 19, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Penn,

I see that you were right and Klesko did contact you … great that you guys got together!

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

Got a tip for any folks who ever find themselves out at Shea and looking for a place to dine before or after the game. Now, in all my years covering games there, I never suspected there were fine dining establishments nearby, but believe me, there are.

I just ate at an Italian restaurant in Astoria, Queens, that was every bit as good or better than any I’ve tried in Little Italy or anywhere else in New York. It’s an old place called Parkside Italian restaurant (I think that’s the proper name; at least I’m certain about the Parkside Italian part) and it’s apparently been named to many best-of-New York lists, pretty much the only non-Manhattan joint on many of them.

The best veal I’ve ever eaten, seriously, and as good or better calimari than I’ve ever eaten. And the price _ dinner for two, $45 bucks without drinks. For New York, that’s astounding.

OK, that’s my tip. Oh, and get the Neko Case CD. My other tip.

Today’s game was so refreshing to see, 1:59 total time, like a Maddux gem. Huddy shut up me and others who were questioning his health, his early performances, everything. Today, he was what the Braves expected when they got him and signed him to a huge extension _ a bona fide ace.

My revised prediction for Andruw: .280, 47 homers, 140 RBIs. Take it to the bank. Of course, that’ll only be good enough for second in the MVP voting to Sir Albert. I think we may see Andruw become to Pujols what Pujols was to Barry Bonds _ perennial MVP runner-up.

Oh, and there’s the dude in Chicago, D-Lee. Same three will finish in 1-2-3 order like last year, just maybe not the same order.

If Giles has to go on the DL, it’s gonna really hurt the Braves. I know he’s only hitting .204, but it’s gonna really hurt them.

They gotta hope it’s not a torn ligament or chipped bone.

By ssiscribe

April 19, 2006 10:48 PM | Link to this

Been away for a few days pursuing other stuff for the ole’ job, but figured I’d at least check in:

— Hope the pitching efforts by the pride of Stockbridge and pride of Phoenix City calmed down everybody’s nerves. And, seriously, the folks on ESPN saying Hudson is on the downside of his career after merely two bad starts and an average outing? Come on. If it was late May and his ERA was in the 8s, then you might have something. He was splendid today; best start as a Brave, by far. And Davies Tuesday night looked like a 10-year vet out there. Great to see, indeed.

— Can’t call any series in April big, but it would’ve helped the Mets upstairs to take two out of three. Instead, they still have that doubt about beating the Braves, especially considering N.Y.’s No. 2 starter got beat by the ATL’s JV team today.

— Sosa is in serious, serious trouble. Once again, he couldn’t wiggle out of it Monday the way he did last year. Seems Houdini has lost his magic. Losing his spot in the rotation isn’t that far behind.

— Andruw Jones may be the most valuable player in the entire organization. Seems every time this team needs something the past two seasons, A.J. has delivered.

OK, that’s a wrap from the coast. Got way too much on here tonight to do, but had to jump on and offer a few points. Hope Gilly’s hand isn’t too bad. Lotta folks be coming off the DL in coming week or so, so some interesting decisions to make regarding the roster.

DOB, hey man, hope you are well and enjoying the roadie to the Northeast. Have a good one in D.C. this weekend. The rest of you, enjoy the blog. See ya from time to time over the weekend. Peace.

SSI.

By Penn

April 19, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

I really don’t like this new format or whatever they call it. Anyway, here we go.

I guess we all know now why Bobby Cox is managing and not us. He just beat the Muts with a lineup of SIX (6) SUBS and two regulars, Andruw and Francoeur. Just two regulars.

And didn’t that patched up defense put on a show today?

Now let’s talk morale for a moment. Can you imagine how low the Muts must feel after getting their ace beaten by a makeshift team of only two regulars and a pitcher who had not pitched a decent game all year?

And think of what a lift this is for the Braves. They will be able to fly to Cincy tonight without a plane.

That is what I was talking about earlier. Had they lost all three and were leaving Noo Yawk 7 games down their tails would be between their legs. As it is the Muts have the “tail between legs” problem.

Now I’ve seen enough to believe they can truly win it all again. The Muts have to be sweating bullets.

Bobby Cox for Manager of the year again and Andruw for MVP. He deserves it for hoisting that team up on his back and carrying them right through the land of the subway and ugly fans. I doubt we’ll hear much from the Mut fans for a few days.

Right now I am riding high.

Klesko, good to hear from you and you do look like Klesko. If you could hit with his power we might be writing about you these days.

Penn

Bob, I’m enjoying the trips down memory lane. Today I was looking over some tapes I have and saw GWTW and suddenly remembered the time the cab hit and killed Margaret Mitchell on Peachtree after she came out of the theater and walked across the street… in front of the cab.

I never did think he should have been convicted for that.

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this

So SJA calls his favorite farm animal “old lady?”

That’s kinda creepy.

By TheSouthernMilitantJackAss

April 19, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

Limerick One and MGL recently met by chance,……………And on this blog they found true romance,……………That put them both in a hot sexual trance,……………But each had a gripe,……………About having to type,……………With a hand stuck down in each others pants!!!…DON’T MESS WITH JACKASS!!!…

By journalist jimmy smith

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

all journalists reporting at same time. journalist jimmy smith notes “dinner for two” comment from dob. maybe pointers from jimmy smith have been of help to dob … “get cheese out of teeth before talking to pretty girl.” of course, dob may have been at dinner with bobby dews. anyone see bobby dews lately? bob, “the old reliable” would never, never drive a ford. think some more. minnie quarts was notorious but rosebud was loved by all. hirsch’s sold suits with two pants, geo muse clothing co (sold hickey freeman suits) was down the street from walco, great sporting goods store. journalist remembers much from ugandan childhood, huh? bobby cannot waste one if he did not waste one with today’s lineup. journalist understands jordan may play at second base for the series in d.c. he is very versatile and has presence.

By Penn

April 19, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this

{{{ journalist understands jordan may play at second base for the series in d.c. he is very versatile and has presence.}}}

Now that is funnyyyyyyy. :)

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

There was a young journalist from Uganda,…..Who met his demise in a curious manna,…..He whittled a hole,…..In a telephone pole,…..And electrified his banana!!!…GO YANKS!!!…

By Chuckles D

April 20, 2006 12:25 AM | Link to this

Andruw…opposite field homer? Two years ago that would’ve been a chopper 6-3. That guy’s realization of his potential continues to baffle me.

So far, the best move JS made this year was one he couldn’t…Thomson…the “high priced” starter.

O.K., just as I was one of the few to not get too worked up over the slow start, let’s not get too excited about the latest pitching…just like the early woes, this won’t last. It’ll be somewhere in the middle. Not that we shouldn’t enjoy beating the Mets after all the BS ESPN and Harold Reynolds was talking after Monday. The way we will win the division, and hopefully more, this year will be 3 fold: bullpen development, rookie reaction to injury call-ups, and fighting through offensive slumps. Our season will depend on LaRoche’s and Frenchy’s consistency. If they produce, we’ll win a lot of games. The starters will be fine. The defense will be good. The offense will be O.K. I think we’ve got the team to do it. And unlike every other year, this year I mean it.

DOB, I’ve got a good article/blog for you: analyze how the prospective new owners will handle the salary. The best thing about this team is that they don’t buy teams/wins…they build/manufacture them. I for one will be terribly disappointed to see an owner come in and sign some expensive free agents to improve the team…obviously that approach doesn’t work. Not to mention it’s boring. If the deal is closed prior to the trade deadline, do you think JS will change his philosophy and give away young talent for rent-a-players? (boy, that doesn’t call for much speculation, does it? But it’ll work for a blog on the day off)

By TennesseePaul

April 20, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this

Hudson’s brilliance came against a mixture of regulars and bench players
—New York Times

No mention of the Braves line up. Just talk of how good Glavine was. He was good. But seriously, if you’re going to mention having two players on the DL, one of which was a massive, overpaid, disappointment last year, why not mention that the Braves sent out their AAA squad with the assistance of only 3 veterans, 2 of which are back ups and one of whom should be retired.

Whatever. Bring it On. Who’s your daddy!. Cute. But you have to play the whole season Mets.

Go BRAVES!

By geechee

April 20, 2006 01:26 AM | Link to this

Tennessee, I checked out that article in the NY Times and you were exactly correct. They talked about the fact that Hudson faced a watered down Mets lineup but did not even hint at the fact that Glavine also faced a much watered down Braves lineup.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 01:26 AM | Link to this

Chuckles, how do you propose that I analyze what will happen with the payroll under new ownership, when we’ve got no idea a. who the new owners will be, or b. what ideas they have about payroll? They could slash it by $20 mill, increase it by $20 mill, keep it the same, do absolutely anything? So what’s the point of acting like I have some insight into what Schuerholz will do if the team is sold before the trade deadline? Seriously, I’m not trying to be dismissive of your proposal for a blog, but that’s just pointless fantasy talk, with no basis for actual informed discussion.

So no, I’m not going to blog on that. Sorry, makes no sense. Why don’t you, sense you or anyone else has just as much idea of what’s going to happen to the payroll as I do. None, that is.

By Tomahawkin

April 20, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

It was a moracle we took 2 of 3 from the mutts wit a damaged squad…. It’s all good we’ve got a 158 games 2 go so there is plenty of time to catch fire. I’m ready 4 our June Bloom…

Hey D.O.B. Look up our June Records since 2001 You’ll be suprised to see what our June Records are like since 2001…

Oh Yeah For all Dose ESPM Haters

“These Choppas will Tomahawk Yo Top Down Here in Jaw-Juh…”

Have You Ever heard that D.O.B….. That Ludacris and DTP Wit Jamie Foxx the song “Gerogia”

By Tomahawkin

April 20, 2006 01:38 AM | Link to this

Damn… From looking at all dose typos from the last statement…I’m pretty (f——ck—-edup) pardon da sloppyness….

By Bob

April 20, 2006 02:15 AM | Link to this

Chuckles,

That’s a neat idea … and if you’ve anything I’ve opined, you know that we share the same view on that subject.

How ‘bout it DOB?

By mark

April 20, 2006 02:39 AM | Link to this

Hmm , I never thought 8-8 could look so good. If Giles goes on the DL we are gonna need more infield help. Can anybody say Ryan Freel ? This Cincinnati Reds fireplug is hitting .341 with 14 hits 19 total bases 14 walks 8 stolen bases ( the entire braves roster has 8 stolen bases )and an insane OBP of .526 . Can you say leadoff hitter in the mold of Lenny dykstra ?? The guy plays 3B , SS , 2B and all three outfield positions. I wonder if JS could pull of a trade for him , just dreaming aint I ?? Peter Gammons is eating crow over his assesment of Tim Hudson ….. lol . The MUTS are back , The MUTS are back , can I say it again , lol . The MUTS are backkkkk !!!!!!!

By Bob

April 20, 2006 02:40 AM | Link to this

SJA,

Honorable Southern Donkey, I can’t decide whether you’re attempting to extract the laughter, ire or both from your audience. Regardless of your real objective, refining your craft will bring you greater satisfaction and better results.

The lyrical aspects of a limerick are relatively easy but the the proper construction of limericks, bawdy and otherwise, is the key … and is somewhat complex because of the importance of having the limerick make a point while keeping the “punchline” hidden from your audience until the end … both can be rather difficult tasks.

Trust me, I’m just an old fan of American baseball who enjoys contributing to this Blog but I’ve also tried and failed several times to become an effective political limerist … just finally gave up in frustration. If you’re half as smart as you seem, then you should encouraged to further develop your skills; regardless of your age or current situation.

Nothing is more disappointing than to see someone fail to acheive success … only because they weren’t properly prepared.

There are many, many books and formal courses available on the subject. Talented, well skilled limerists are always in great demand! Many great actors, writers and humorists are also accomplished limerists; the late, great actor George Sandars being one.

Good luck!

By Bob

April 20, 2006 02:57 AM | Link to this

Sorry DOB, my bad eyes and speed reading again … I thought Chuckles was proposing a Blog attempting to put its arms around the issues associated with any new ownership making significant initial changes in the organizational structure.

By geechee

April 20, 2006 05:11 AM | Link to this

The New York Daily News published a much more unbiased story than the NY Times about the Braves/Mets series titled: Braves remain East’s beasts.Click here to read

By geechee

April 20, 2006 05:20 AM | Link to this

Here is another Braves/Mets review from the NY Post.Click here

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 06:24 AM | Link to this

Bob (and Chuckles): Didn’t mean to be short in my laaaate-night reply about new ownership, and didn’t meant to spell “since” as “sense.” Long day. Gotta get over to airport here in NY now.

Bob, I get what you’re saying and what he’s suggesting. I’m just not excited about trying to go through all the different scenarios of what might happen when and if the team’s sold before or after the July 31 trade deadline, because I don’t think any significant changes would occur this season whatsoever.

And there’s more pertinent issues to discuss, in my opinion.

But as I said, if you guys want to discuss it, hey, have at it. No problem. My input is, I don’t think anything significant is going to happen in terms of payroll this season.

By geechee

April 20, 2006 06:31 AM | Link to this

If the team is going to be sold that fast it probably means only one thing; Arthur Blank.

By ncscoots

April 20, 2006 06:33 AM | Link to this

thanks for those links to the NY papers, and stories on the series. It goes to show that, while the players may realize this wasn’t a life-or-death three-game series, their fans (and media) may not have the same perspective. I gotta believe that the constant expectation of ‘we want you to be great, today, tomorrow, and forever, and you had better win the World Series in April’ has GOT to factor into the Mets’ mindset. After the Pedro win (headline of Who’s The Boss? puh-leeze), anything less than a Mets sweep would have been unacceptable to the fans and media, and to lose the series, just catastrophic. That kind of pressure has GOT to wear on the players eventually.

By geechee

April 20, 2006 07:58 AM | Link to this

Braves current team ERA stands at 5.32.The Leo Mazzone coached Orioles ERA stands at 5.37

By supa

April 20, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, If you like Indian food, there’s a great place in Jackson Heights…just a few train stops away…called Jackson Diner. I know it doesn’t sound like an Indian restaurant, but it is, and it’s one of the best in the country. Check it out next time you’re in Queens.

By eric the elder

April 20, 2006 08:21 AM | Link to this

geechee, thanks for the links to the NY newspapers. I have the NY Post bookmarked and love reading their propaganda - - kinda like Al Jazeera reporting the news in the Middle East. Both papers claimed that the Mets were “undermanned,” and neither mentioned that the Braves had only two regulars in the lineup. Moral of the story: don’t believe everything we read or hear.

By Joe Roman

April 20, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

Maybe it’s a trend or just coincidence, but I like seeing complete games out of the starters. It boosts their confidence and rests the bullpen. Is this because of McDowell or Leo’s absence? The staff’s loyalty shown to the new guy is further evidence of the class instilled in Braves players. That’s Bobby-no doubt. He doesn’t have to tell them. He just sets the example.

By Matt

April 20, 2006 08:58 AM | Link to this

DOB, you said that Sosa was being bumped back to Tuesday in the rotation to pitch on 7 days rest, and that Davies was being bumped up to Sunday to pitch on 4 days rest. If Smoltz, Thompson and Davies are pitching the series against Wash, Who starts on Monday against Mil? (Unless the schedule I’m looking at is wrong and we have an off day on Monday, in which case I apologize for being a dumb a$$) Could it be Chuck James Bit**? And what are the chances of us seing old Chuck in the rotation by the end of May?

By Jon

April 20, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

Matt, it will probably be Hudson pitching monday on 4 days rest. James shouldnt be coming out of pen until McBride gets back. Too valuable down there right now.

By Chuckles D

April 20, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

Dave,

Thanks for being an a—hole. Note the parenthetical at the end of that post. I understand that it calls for much speculation, but I figured you would have some insight as is normally the case. Thank God you’re leaving NY; I think they were rubbing off on you.

Maybe I shouldn’t try to come up with interesting topics. I’ll just stick to what all the other paranoid schizophrenics do: “Reitsma sucks, Frenchy needs to be sent to minors, Jordan’s done, We Want Leo!” Dang, now that’s novel.

Here’s an idea: Do some “journalism”. Find out what could happen to the payroll. Speculate. Who cares? That’s what ya’ll do anyway. When was the last time you wrote something that didn’t call for speculation?

Thanks again.

By MGL

April 20, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

I did not get to see the game, but I just played the clip of the Diaz throw to home that is on the Braves home page. If you haven’t seen it, it’s worth a look. It was so on the money that I doubt if Pratt had to move the glove more that an inch or two.

By tigger101023

April 20, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this

I think Tim goes Monday on normal rest, since he pitched before the off-day today. Then Sosa on Tuesday and Smoltz on Wednesday. There’s another off-day that Thursday. I don’t expect that Thomson will get skipped for Davies to go on normal rest Friday, but you never know. I’d think JT’s pitched his way back into the rotation.

By Ron Roberts

April 20, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

Chuckles, I for one, can’t figure out what you’re looking for.

AOL/TW has been tight-lipped about who they’re even talking to when it comes to the team’s sale. Some names and groups have popped up, but for any of them to even discuss what they’d do if/when they bought the Braves would most probably have an affect on the outcome of the sale, too.

So it’d be in their best interest to say nothing about “future plans” should they own the team. In fact, I’d bet that AOL/TW has told every interested suitor that such discussion would remove them from consideration.

Besides, aside from Arthur Blank, what track record do the other potential bidders have to go on, when it comes to pro sports ownership?

There’s nowhere to go with an article of nothing more than empty speculation. If it came across from DOB the wrong way, then so be it; it’s just there’s literally nothing to write about when it comes to how a potential owner(s) would impact the salary base of the current team.

By Jon

April 20, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

AOL is no longer part of the name, it is just Time Warner now.

By Jon

April 20, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

AOL is no longer part of the name, it is just Time Warner now.

By Jon

April 20, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this

AOL is no longer part of the name, it is just Time Warner now.

By Bravo Boy

April 20, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

Can the Braves send Sosa down to Richmond for a few “rehab” games? Its clear that at a minimum he needs some conditioning and more practice innings (that he didn’t get during the WBC). I’d hate to throw him in the bullpen in Atlanta, but he is clearly not ready for 6-7 innings as a starter. Maybe my question has been answered by pushing off his start. I guess that is essentially giving him some more throwing sessions to get it together.

By TennesseePaul

April 20, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

Bravo Boy… It could also give him some time to calm down. He pitched all winter and then in the WBC. Though he didn’t pitch as a starter all winter. He needs to take a step back. Maybe having the extra time watching the other 4 starters throw 1 hitters or 3 hitters and go nine innings will teach him a thing or two about what is expected of him as a starter in the Braves orginization. He came up through Colorado and Tampa Bay, two clubs without a pitching heritage. Maybe this will help. I hope it will because he has flatout sucked out there.

By Voice of Reason

April 20, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

Sosa is simply out of shape. For someone who pitched all winter, he obviously did little else besides eat. Let’s face it, he is no Terry Forster or Charlie Kerfeld, then again that’s probably a good thing…

By Voice of Reason

April 20, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

BTW - Even if he were in better shape, I don’t know that I can take much more of his high-wire act, anyway. Way too much stress…

By journalist jimmy smith

April 20, 2006 11:53 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith is saddened to be ridiculed in a limerick composed by friend southerneasterbummy. for easterbunny edification a good limerick consists of five anapaestic lines. lines 1, 2, and 5 of limericks have seven to ten syllables and rhyme with one another. lines 3 and 4 of limericks have five to seven syllables and also rhyme with each other. easterbunny should look up “anapaestic” for understanding. may also wish to learn more multi-syllable words. what happened to kinder, gentler easterbunny/jackasss? bob may be right, easterbunny is half as smart as he seems. journalist apologizes for being mean. easterbunny should concentrate on ron roberts - original easterbunny nemesis and leave others alone. now baseball, has anyone seen bobby dews? mysterious disappearance of brains of team. maybe brian jordan will replace bobby dews if bobby dews not found soon. penn is kind to reference journalist’s last post. bob, figure out trivia yet? journalist is eager to hear answers.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

THIS RANKS with SJA’s rants as the post that most leaves me shaking my head and wondering why I bother. It’s from the appropriately named Chuckles, who writes:

Here’s an idea: Do some “journalism”. Find out what could happen to the payroll. Speculate. Who cares? That’s what ya’ll do anyway. When was the last time you wrote something that didn’t call for speculation?

Dear Chuckles, since I offered an apology for being terse late last night, and since you didn’t care, and since you sent this self-important piece of crap paragraph to me that reflects your complete lack of what we do, what I do, and what I’m supposed to do in this blog _ my direct orders entering this thing were to never spend more than 10 minutes on the blog, Chuckles _ then i’ll just let you know you can ask me anything else, call me anything else, and offer your all-knowing ideas of what “journalism” is and how it’s about empty speculation _ it won’t matter. Because you, my whiny friend, are on the, as my man Stephen Colbert would put it, dead-to-me list.

So either use a different name when you sign on or expect me to scroll past your infuriating, ignorant posts. I don’t even mind responding to SJA, because I can tell he’s not serious half the time. You, on the other hand, are just infuriating. And frankly, I don’t have to listen to that crap, when, as I told you, I’m only supposed to spend 10 minutes on the blog and I spend about three to four times that per day, sometimes more, doing it.

So go speculate about what might happen if and when the team’s sold. I don’t care. I’m going to talk about the team and the division race, etc.

And thanks for your appreciation. I just flew to D.C. and read your post. Just shaking my head here, wondering what goes through some minds. “Do some journalism…” That was the best.

Go find a blog where they want to speculate on what might happen to the payroll when an unnamed owner, who’s given no indication whatsoever about which direction he or she might be leaning, buys the team. Let me know when you find it.

On second thought, let someone else know when you find it. Because I don’t care.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Ron Roberts, thank you very much. You stated what knowing fans realize in this graph to our unnamed friend, you were just more diplomatic than me:

AOL/TW has been tight-lipped about who they’re even talking to when it comes to the team’s sale. Some names and groups have popped up, but for any of them to even discuss what they’d do if/when they bought the Braves would most probably have an affect on the outcome of the sale, too.

By David

April 20, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Just ignore him David. Lets talk about more important things. Like how are the thrashers going to make it to the playoffs next year? They have to address many issues. Like the d-line and signing Savard. Oh yeah, I like the move of pushing back sosa. Might do him some good and possible a wake up call? Oh and MLB pitchers please continue to andy breaking pitches. I love it when pitchers throw to him like it is 2001.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

Oh, I almost forgot, in my waste-of-time response to the person obsessed with what the potential future payroll of all the various potential future owners of the Braves might be, I almost forgot to answer an actual pertinent question from a blogger concerned with the actual current team:

Tim Hudson will pitch Monday, but it won’t be on short rest. It’ll be regular rest, because of the off day in the schedule.

By Patrick

April 20, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Let me be the first to say how much I appreciate you coming on here frequently to post the latest on the Braves. You do a great job! Keep it up!!!

By AL

April 20, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

For all of you complaining about Brian Jordan being old and washed up, don’t forget that he’s 8 years YOUNGER than the guy who platooned at first base for the last few years.

By David

April 20, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

Good point, on the age part AL. Julio is older than brian. But, there are two big differences. Julio can hit when he played with us and Julio played first base really well.

By Matthew

April 20, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

DOB:

I am very glad to have found this blog. Your blog is a place where I can comment on the Bravos without dealing with the morons on the ESPN board and the trolls on the www.mlb.com boards. Thanks very much.

Oh, and one other question. Have you heard anything about the possibility of having HoRam in the bullpen when he returns, and puttin gJames in the rotation? I know BC would like to have a lefty in the rotation, and HoRam didn’t exactly impress me. Thanks.

By Blake

April 20, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

DOB keep up the good work. You got any news on Giles finger yet?

By Mark

April 20, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

DOB , anything new on the status of Marcus Giles ?

By MontgomeryDoug

April 20, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

Great job on the posts DOB. the information here blows the braves official mlb site out of the water. my question is on the timing of Horacio’s return. if sosa is skipped this time through, will horacio be ready to assume his place in the rotation by the next turn? is that what the braves are banking on? instead of just skipping sosa one turn in the rotation, this is actually a demotion to the bullpen, just not calling it that in case horacio is not ready by then and sosa would be needed to start one more. just wondering. keep up the good work.

By MGL

April 20, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

Does our esteemed journalist jimmy smith - digit expert - have any input on finger injuries?

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

No word yet on Giles. Just called to check. Should know something before much longer.

Haven’t heard anything on Horacio going to ‘pen, but doesn’t mean it won’t happen. Bobby just hasn’t offered anything yet as to his thinking on the subject, and Horacio hasn’t heard anything from them to that effect.

By RA

April 20, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’brien,

I wouldn’t devote so much time to the misguided opinions of disgruntled bloggers… I felt that you gave an objective, if somewhat pessimistic view of our favorite team. I think what a lot of people are worried about is that the Braves may not win the east for the 16th time in a row… That’s a distinct possibility since the Mets have gone all George Steinbrenner on everybody… Still, the Braves went into Shae outgunned, and utterly overmatched, and they still took the series. You can’t buy heart and that’s what this team has. I’m looking forward to this year.

By Russell

April 20, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this

DOB Got a good rockabilly cd for you from a little known group in middle Tennessee. How can I get it to you?

By BDinNY

April 20, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

DOB, I decided to help out and do some journalism for you. Here’s what I’ve discovered relating to what could happen to the payroll… keep in mind this is just speculation. Apparently, upon the sale of the team to a new owner, the payroll could: a) go up, b) go down or c) stay the same. Also, if it goes up or down, it could change: a) a lot, b) less than a lot or c) a whole lot. I hope that helps!

Seriously, I know everyone wants juicy info on the proposed sale of the team (including me) and I know everyone is praying for a new owner who will open up the checkbook like the old days. I also know people complain when there’s no information forthcoming on these matters. It might help for people to realize that M&A negotiations are conducted in a very tight-lipped manner (I’m speaking from the position of having been an M&A attorney in NY for many years). The parties are bound by confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements and, typically, any info that does get out is usually a calculated leak and may not be at all reliable (like NFL draft gossip). Moreover, the Braves organization, to its credit, is very quiet by nature (thus, avoiding the media circus crap that you see in Boston or NY), so we’re unlikely to get anything much to chew on until a few days before the deal is done and the formal announcement is made.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

BYinNY, thanks for another voice of informed reason on the matter.

Glad to know the majority seem to understand that you can’t “do some journalism” and come up with information that’s simply not available. And speculation, at least in this matter, isnt worth the time because it’s based on nothing but opinion, no facts.

By MGL

April 20, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this

BDinNY - Great post!! Looks like a lot of research went into the meaningful first paragraph - thanks.

By Blake

April 20, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

It would be best for the organization if the group headed by Ron Terwilliger bought the team. He played college sports and is a fan. He is a local and will be a personal owner (even thpouh part of a group). Similar to Steinbrenner who only owns 10% of Yankees. He has plenty of assets to do the purchase himself if needed and while he won’t spend like the Yankees if Atlanta needs a player here or there he will allow that to happen.

By Chop Chop

April 20, 2006 02:18 PM | Link to this

DOB,

All you had to do was some pseudo-journalism. You know, some good ol’ Jayson Blair stuff for the blog. I’m sure Chuckles would have found it a good read. It could’ve read something like this:

“Chuckles,

I did some snooping around today and found out that the Braves are going to be sold to Ted Turner. He’s going to move them out to Montana and build a stadium. There will only be two seats in that stadium: one for Ted, one for yours truly (I will be the official propaganda minister) and one for you. That’s right, Chuckles. Ted’s first order of business will be to name you, Chuckles, GM. He’s always admired you (as have I) and he’s looking forward to seeing what exciting moves you will make with the organization.

Respectfully yours,

DOB”

By Chop Chop

April 20, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

“Chuckles,

I forgot to mention this, but the reason why there will only be two seats in the stadium is that you will be sitting in Ted’s lap. Sorry for any confusion.

DOB”

By TennesseePaul

April 20, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

DOB I’m with you. It is a ridiculous statement, and I for one would rather discuss the on field situations during the regular season. My only hope is, whoever wins the bidding, signs Andruw Jones long term and in a manner that does not cripple the team.

So, as for the on field, between the lines, business… I’m stoked, thrilled, relieved, excited, and in a general state of happiness that the piching has done well this past week, with the obvious exception. But! Watching this team turn it’s starters from crap to king that quickly isn’t as comforting as I’d like it to be. The old saying easy come, easy go comes to mind. I hope they continue on this path.

I was one of the ones beginning to question Rogers resolve and wonder if he was the right man for the job. I was beginning to fear he might turn out to be the Kolb of pitching coaches. But, at the same time, he isn’t out of the woods yet. One good start from each of the four reliable starters is good, but not enough. I hope we get a whole lot more than this.

If the starters keep this up, I don’t think we’ll have to worry about the pen being over exposed. Smoltz threw over 100 pitches, so that can’t continue. But it was a shutout, so you gotta let him finish it. But Davies and Hudson threw less than 100 pitches. That is encouraging. Pitching like that isn’t going to wear down a pitcher. Sure they’re out there for a lot innings, but it take little work to do it. It’s like Maddux. He needs about 6 pitches an inning to be done with everyone. It’s more effecient than striking everyone out. Though I do like the K’s.

By Chambers

April 20, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB. Quick question. I got into a conversation the other day over whether the loss of Estrada and/or giving McCann a longer leash this year had anything to do with the horrid start for the starting rotation? Any opinion on whether either had anything to do with it? I figured maybe McCann was on a short leash from the dugout calling games last year in his first season, coming up halfway through the season. Maybe timing this year or something. Thanks for the blogging.

By journalist doing journalism

April 20, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

many journalists now on blog doing journalism.

dob is fine journalist but arteries must be clogged with cheese causing grumpiness. jimmy smith is prepared to do some journalism for dob while fine journalist cools off from insensitive chuckles’ post.

jimmy smith and dob are not always in synch but esteemed journalist dob is king of blog. jimmy smith will be in touch today with wurlitzer about famed prize. jimmy smith is still working to get coveted prize for dob. luckovich was just lucky.

in response to mgl, here is journalism on finger injury. braves fear finger is broken. injury on finger in glove is different from injury to finger not in glove. swollen, gnarly, finger is hard to put in glove. as jimmy smith sees it, giles has three options, (1) sever finger from hand (not best option), (2) wrap finger in banana peel and bind tightly with rubber bands, or (3) go on dl. if giles does go on dl, let pena play somewhere so great glove will help defense. while on dl, giles can level baseball swing -sore finger should help with this. bobby dews is not yet heard from - perhaps he is buying team and will change name to favorite fruit/vegetable … atlanta “maters”. bobby dews is a cut-up and may turn up in cooler or where least expected. now, chipper report: uh, chipper is walking well with brace on right knee. journalist will do more journalism after a snack. ibc and cheetos.

By glennbo

April 20, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this

i, for one, would like to thank the “journalists” of espn and the new york media. i think they fired up the braves because the new york media actually hates everybody, but most especially their own teams, and the braves, because they are from the deep south.

By Matthew

April 20, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

Glenbo:

You’re right. All of us “apathetic” Braves fans need is for the pinheads at ESPN and the Mut lovers to say that the streak is over in April and that we should bow at the altar of the Amazin’ Muts. This party’s just gettin’ started.

GO BRAVES

By Penn

April 20, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

Let’s take a stab at speculating for a change.

I think we should be more concerned about who the new owners bring in as GM and Field Mgr than the payroll. Sure it would be nice if we had a solid closer right now but that man may well emerge from this current crop of young pitchers.

The fact is we are blessed with the best managing combo in all of baseball with JS and BC. JS ought to win GM of the year every year.

The two of them simply know how to win and are not afraid to pull the trigger when changes need to be made. They turn over about 35%-40% of the team every year. And they have built the best farm system in the sport. When a young Brave is called up he already knows the basics of the major league game.

So, if we get a payroll of $100 million and an inexperienced replacement for either JS and BC do you really think that will work? How about adding another $25 million? That’s what the Mets spent last year to finish last. And the Yankees spent $200 million for the privilege of watching the World Series on TV.

Always remember the Marlins won two WS without a pennant and with modest payrolls. That alone ought to convince anyone that luck plays a huge role in determining who goes to the Series each year and who wins it.

Had enough? I thought so.

BTW, DOB, you really do a very good job and the vast majority of us appreciate you.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN (putting it in caps so Chuckles will know we’re “doing some journalism” _ Marcus Giles has a sprained ligament, no broken bone in his left middle finger. He’ll be out at least a few days, but doesn’t look like DL will be necessary.

INF prospect Martin Prado is going to be called up tomorrow from Double-A, so Braves will have to make a move on 25-man to create a spot. My guess is it’ll be a reliever, since the bullpen is very well rested now after two complete games and an off day.

I’m gonna go post a new blog with this stuff. But wanted to let you know here first

By TennesseePaul

April 20, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

I thought Cox was saying one of Giles or Renteria would be on the DL. If Giles is coming back quick, maybe it’s Renteria. They could make it retro active and give him time to fully recoup.
But, if the pitching keeps going 9 innings, they might as well load the team up with bats. We could keep 3 pitchers in the pen and have a lot more bench players. Cox could sub in all day and just confuse the hell outa the other manager. It would be highly uncharacteristic of him.

By Jman

April 20, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the updates DOB. All you DOB haters need to realize that MOST beat writers dont give the bloggers the time of day after posting the original story. DOB is truly one of a kind in that respect. You da man DOB!!!

By Jman

April 20, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the updates DOB. All you DOB haters need to realize that MOST beat writers dont give the bloggers the time of day after posting the original story. DOB is truly one of a kind in that respect. You da man DOB!!!

By journalist awaiting journalism

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

four o’clock where is blitz? journalist dob is probably doing journalism right now, about to push send button.

By Chuckles D...ex-journalist

April 20, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

Look, sorry I touched a nerve with the journalism comment, I was taking a playful jab. I just wanted to know if you had any inside scoop. I guess not. A simple “I don’t know” would have been fine.

The worst thing about email, or blogs, is that the comments can be taken the wrong way (obviously, I’m not talking about the a—hole comment b/c that can only be taken one way; but that was a rude response; also I am aware that you are not usually that way, which is why I said the Yanks were rubbing off on you) This is one such instance.

But whatever, I’ll just not post from now on. That’ll make everybody happy. Sorry for ruining your day off. Just a old, retired, displaced Braves fan trying to get info.

Go Braves!

By ex-journalistChuckles D

April 20, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

Look, sorry I touched a nerve with the journalism comment, I was taking a playful jab. I just wanted to know if you had any inside scoop. I guess not. A simple “I don’t know” would have been fine.

The worst thing about email, or blogs, is that the comments can be taken the wrong way (obviously, I’m not talking about the a—hole comment b/c that can only be taken one way; but that was a rude response; also I am aware that you are not usually that way, which is why I said the Yanks were rubbing off on you) This is one such instance.

But whatever, I’ll just not post from now on. That’ll make everybody happy. Sorry for ruining your day off. Just a old, retired, displaced Braves fan trying to get info.

Go Braves!

By Kirby

April 20, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

On Tuesday DOB wrote: Thomson is the only guy I’ve heard of who didn’t scratch and claw to stay in a game when he was throwing a one-hitter through six innings. He gave Cox an ambivalent answer regarding whether he wanted to stay in, and that’s not good at all.

So, what do you think is going on with Thomson, DOB? His numbers so far are impressive - lowest ERA, WHIP, SLG, and OBA among the starting pitchers - only 3 BB given up in 14 IP, but he’s struck out 14.

He certainly hasn’t pitched like a quitter, but I’m deconstructing your comment to convey a belief among the manager, coaches, and/or players, that they were surprised he didn’t stay in the game. Why would he sabotage his late-breaking good fortune to be part of the starting staff, and to be pitching well?

By Bob

April 20, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

I’m really disappointed in your “checkers” skills … you first establish an excellent gambit … and then you go and spoil it all by exposing it to Chuckles before he has a chance to take the bait.

Jimmy, I’m old but not very reliable when it comes to trivia and my recall has always been bad … the only I can remember is that Daddy always promised me a pocket knife when I grew up … and I never got one. My baby brother gave me his for my 60th birthday but he had it encased so I couldn’t hurt myself.

I don’t believe in the pursuit of the trival as it interferes with more important things … like figuring out would have responded to General William J. Hardee: Old Reliable

By whatever

April 20, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

Give it a break guys. A simple “I don’t know” would’ve done fine to begin with.

By teoa

April 20, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

I think I would be a little concerned if I was a Mets fan: big three game home series against the 14-time defending division champs…Game 1: the Mets ace beats the Braves #7 starter in a 1-run game. Games 2 and 3: Mets lose to a Triple A lineup.

Now, as to why I was concerned to be a Braves fan yesterday:

1. Brian Jordan. No way in hell he’s going to make up for his defense with his bat. I don’t think his bat will even justify a spot on the end of the bench. He could have easily cost the Braves the game yesterday with that error.

2. The lineup did not give the Braves the best chance to win that game. Just once, I’d like to see Bobby use the Book of Common Sense as opposed to the Book of Left-Right Matchups. I know Bobby is a great regular season manager, but sometimes I wonder what he could possibly be thinking — or rather, if he is thinking at all. After all those years of watching Glavine pitch, how could Bobby not know that he has more trouble with lefties than righties? LaDouche has a career .750 average against Glavine, and Langerhans is exactly the kind of hitter that would hit Glavine: patient, nice controlled swing, goes the other way. Not to mention the fact that when half the team is injured, it’s not a very good idea to take out two or your remaining regulars and insert a bench player in the 3-spot.

I would be less concerned about this ridiculous lineup if I didn’t think Bobby would have done exactly the same thing if this was a playoff game.

By geechee

April 20, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

teoa

1)The team is very banged up at the moment giving Bobby few choices.

2)As you well know, Brian Jordan is currently tied for second on the team as far as hitting with a .333 average.

This does not even count his leadership skills in the dugout.

So once again, what is your argument other than you don’t like the guy?

By Bob

April 20, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

Oops, it’s stormin’ up here in the hills and I somehow got posted prematurely … maybe God’s trying to tell me something.

I was just finishing up by saying that this was interferring with my trying to figure out why my Horse Racing projection program is so good … at predicting losers! It needs some work!

I must admit that Jimmy has me totally stumped regarding “old Reliable” … DOB may have some of their CDs … and true diehard southerners will remember General William J. Hardee as “Old Reliable” but he doesn’t count ‘cause we relied on him to keep Sherman out of Georgia and he let us down. I do remember an old Lynn Redgrave flick by that name but … oh well, I give up … it’sthundering again!

By teoa

April 20, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

I think I would be concerned if I was a Mets fan…Big three game home series against the 14-time defending division champs: Game 1: the Mets ace beats the Braves #7 starter in a 1-run game. Games 2 and 3: the Braves beat the Mets while using a Triple A lineup.

Now, as to why I was concerned to be a Braves fan yesterday:

1. Brian Jordan. No way in hell he’s going to make up for his defense with his bat. I don’t think he’s even going to justify a seat on the end of the bench with his bat. He could have easily cost the Braves the game with that error.

2. That lineup did not give the Braves their best opportunity to win a big game. Just once, I’d like to see Bobby use the Book of Common Sense instead of the Book of Left-Right Matchups. I know he is a great regular season manager, but sometimes I wonder what he could possibly be thinking — or rather, if he is thinking at all. After watching Glavine pitch all those years, how could Bobby possibly not know that Glavine has more trouble with lefties than righties? LaDouche had a .750 career average against him, and Langer is exactly the kind of hitter you want facing Glavine: patient, doesn’t over-swing, goes the opposite way. Not to mention the fact that it’s not a very good idea to take out two more regulars (and insert a bench player into the 3-spot!) when half the lineup is out already.

I would be less concerned about the ridiculous lineup yesterday if I didn’t think Bobby would have done exactly the same thing if it was a playoff game.

By teoa

April 20, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Sorry about the double post…didn’t seem to go through the first time.

Geechee, my argument against Brian Jordan? You mean besides what he has done for the last five years?

Okay: Inexperienced first baseman, costly errors, no clutch hits, he won’t hit anywhere close to .333 for the year — he is only 4/12, and his role on the team is to hit lefties: he is 0 for 8 against lefties. Oh yeah, and he’s preventing a good young player that hit .450 for the Spring from being on the team.

What was your argument for him again?

By geechee

April 20, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this

My argument remains exactly the same. Let Bobby run the team. Nobody, including Jordan, expects him to be playing everday but Cox has few choices at the moment and the last five years are history. The guy is on the team because of some fictional salary restraints and he has enough money in the bank that he is basically willing to play for free because he loves this team and at the moment he is the bandaid that Cox needs to hold this team together.

By teoa

April 20, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

A band-aid covered with salt in my opinion…

You lost me with the “fictional salary restraints”…doesn’t Jordan make more than the Braves would have paid Jurries?

Oh, and Bobby did have the choice of playing the guy that was hitting .750 against Glavine. You know how bad Jordan is? He’s so bad that I find myself wishing for LaDouche, and that’s really saying something. I happen to think the two worst players on the team play the same position. And that’s a real problem…a problem that you don’t want to give Bobby the opportunity to exacerbate in the playoffs, as he so frequently does.

Anyway, we disagree.

By teoa

April 20, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

Geechee, I just noticed in the last blog how you were saying that we shouldn’t judge anybody based on 2 weeks…I agree in theory (although I can take one look at Sosa and judge that he is not in shape to play).

But it seems you’re judging Jordan’s value based on his 4 for 12 (in two weeks), while ignoring the fact that he hasn’t been able to play for 5 years (because that’s “history”).

I’m confused…If we can’t form opinions based on the present or the past, then what exactly should we base our judgments on?

By geechee

April 20, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this

teoa, I guess we just have to agree to disagree. I really don’t want to argue with a fellow Braves fan. There is however the issue of leadership on a team besides what is provided by management. Because these are the Braves, most people do not stop and realize how young this team is. If you subtract Smotzie, Jordan, and Remlinger this is one of the youngest teams in the majors yet, there is all this pressure on them to repeat as division champions. The only reason they are given a chance to repeat once again is the fact that they are the Braves.

By teao

April 20, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

I’ll grant you that he has some value in the clubhouse…I would prefer that he be there while not taking up one of the 25 roster spots, but that’s a legitimate debate. Veterans are needed on a team, but more importantly, you need veterans who can contribute on the field. I hope Jordan proves me wrong and has a productive year off the bench, but I will be very surprised if that happens. Anyway, go Braves!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 21, 2006 12:34 AM | Link to this

OK BOB - here’s a good ol’ southern dumbass joke for you - This ol’ whore asked her husband if he would pay to have Beautiful Babe tattooed on her butt for her birthday - he agreed to pay, gave her some money, and a few food coupons, and off she went to get her tattoo - after telling the tattoo artist what she wanted stamped on her butt, he told her that she only had enough money, and food stamps, to get the initials for Beautiful Babe, one on each cheek - she agreed, he tattooed - she went home and asked her husband if he would like to see what she had just got done, he told her yes he would, so she dropped her drawers, bent over, and said, “Well, what do you think?” - He said, “That’s really nice honey, but who in the hell is BOB???”……….

By mark

April 21, 2006 03:42 AM | Link to this

Cox has always gone with veteran players over rookies when given the choice. Sometimes it works out and sometimes Cox looks like an idiot , but he is the manager and its his decision too make.