Braves

By Miles

May 7, 2006 07:19 PM | Link to this

Its too early to say at this point. I do know that this team has had a lot of bad luck this year in 1 run games and that we were 2 good pitches away from sweeping the mets instead of losing 2 out of 3. The mets lack of quality starting pitching will become apparent over the next few months so they will soon start to lose some ground. But Bobby needs to get his act together and quit batting LaRoche in the 5th spot. The lineup would be so much better with McCann batting 5th. I also would like to tryout Renteria in the lead-off spot because he has a terrific OBP so far this season. Giles could then bat in the number 2 spot where he is much more comfortable.

By Ben Sutton

May 7, 2006 07:23 PM | Link to this

We haven’t been this far back since 1993, but there are still a lot of games left. I think we will really be able to tell in June. The Braves are historically much better after the All Star break.

By jerbo

May 7, 2006 07:26 PM | Link to this

Hello,

where is the weekly report on the minor league teams?

By geauxbraves2000

May 7, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

I remember a couple (maybe a few) seasons ago, the Braves were off to a bad start and were trailing the Orioles in a game. They came back to win that game and I along with others think that game turned their season around. If the Braves would’ve lost today I think they may have been sunk, but since they overwhelmingly won today, hopefully today’s game will be this year’s turnaround.

By Jim

May 7, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

Why is Cormier on the DL? I never saw an explanation. His absence is sorely missed. He has been one of the few bright spots in the bullpen. Also Ken “Death” Ray has been good in all but one outing. The hits he gave up the other night were an unlucky bloop and dribbler. I would like to see him assume a more important role.

What is the injury status with HoRam, Devine, and Boyer?

By KayJayNZ

May 7, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this

IIRC Cormier has a side strain.

At first I thought losing Zambrano would be a benedit for the Mets. But who is going to replace him? Lima or Oliver? That’s good news for the Braves.

And if the Mets move Heilman to the rotation that weakens their bullpen.

That said, the Braves bullpen is a mess and the offense will continue to be inconsistent as long as Giles, LaStrikeout and Francouer continue to hit close to the Mendoza line.

By JasonInMaine

May 7, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

The Mets will make a move, probably bigger rather than smaller, to address their rotation. They have all of the other pieces, and as Skip & Pete pointed out on the broadcast, they have been drawing like crazy. They have a new TV network. With all of the other pieces in place, they won’t blink at going after a Zito or someone like that. It may have been better for the Braves if Zambrano had not gotten hurt!

By supa

May 7, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

Remember what everyone was saying last year about the Washington Nationals? They won a lot of 1-run games in the first half of the season, and were in first place at the All-Star break. But those 1-run games can very easily go the other way, and are often decided by a single hit or pitch. Look at what happened to them in the second half…things didn’t fall their way, and they started to lose the 1-run games.

I’m not saying the Braves will make a drastic turnaround (we clearly need a little help from the Mets). But it does comfort me to know that we’ve been in nearly every game, and those 1-run games can very quickly turn the other the way.

We have to start winning series, as Bobby Cox loves to say, and the rest will take care of itself.

By Alex R.

May 7, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

I agree…Rentaria needs to bat leadoff as Giles is killing us there. He swings at the first pitch too often.

Also, as a regular poster on Bravesjournal.com, I can say convincingly that almost every Braves fan loves what we are seeing from Brian McCann and would absolutely be better then LaRoche in the 5th spot.

Frankly, is Brian Jordan keeps his recent streak going and hits consistently (though I don’t think it will last) he should replace LaRoche when Andruw Jones comes back Tuesday.

LaRoche is the biggest cancer on this lineup and his occasional 3 run homer keeps Cox happy enough to torture the rest of us with his terrible bat behind Jones in the 5th spot.

The biggest weakness on this team more then the wrong top of the order and LaRoche’s continued presence is the bullpen.

The Braves have to make a trade already. There are some fantastic and inexpensive young arms out there on teams with deep bullpens like the A’s (Just Duscherer) and the White Sox (Brandon McCarthy) who cluld easily come to Atlanta and be our closers. We have plenty of prospects and Kelly Johnson (with his terrific OBP) to deal.

Duscherer and McCarthy may not be closers but have the quality arms and high heat and strikeout ratios to be stud closers if handed the jobs.

By Jim

May 7, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

Francouer has shown a bit more patience and has had better results lately. They have come in a few big bunches, but I believe he is second on the team in RBIs.

LaRoche is a dfinite liability. As bad as he has looked waving at the ball all season, the most frustrating at bat had to be his AB in the 8th inning yesterday against a lefty when he just watched three pitches right down the middle with his bat on his shoulder. If you are going to strikeout at least SWING THE D**N BAT!!!

Mr Foul Ball, Marcus Giles has become an asset in the field but is fast becoming a liability at the plate. Maybe he’s one of those hitters (Juan Samuel comes to mind)whose offense suddenly and irretrievably goes south at an early stage in their career.

By JC

May 7, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

Nice win now 10 in a row against losing teams. Those who have been fans of the team for awhile and watched this long run should hope for the Braves to start winning and not stop…and for the Mets to do the same. Maybe, just MAYBE if we’re 8 or ten games out at the deadline but in a dead heat for the wild card the Braves will finally be the team to make the huge midseason acquisition. We haven’t made one since Denny Neagle (and don’t give me Terry Mulholland, Greg Colbrunn, or Todd Hollandsworth). I’ve said for awhile that the Braves keep losing in the postseason to teams that got hot after big midseason acquisitions (Beltran, Rolen, Pudge, Aramis and Lofton to name a few). Who cares about the division let’s get a first baseman or move Chipper and start WB at third, get a starter and a closer and go for the big one!! Somebody will have these for sale (Zito? Guardado? Dunn?) I don’t care if we give ‘em away Marlins-style after the season let’s get Bobby and Smoltzy one more ring while they’re still around!!! Go Braves!!!

By JasonInMaine

May 7, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

Jim,

I am a little concerned over Marcus’s bat speed. He just seems to not be able to catch up to pitches anymore…seems a little slow. Do others think it is just slump or something more serious as Jim alludes to?

By Tomahawkin

May 7, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this

Hollandsworthless was a joke…After just miss getting buried alive by the Mutts it’s Down to Fort Lauderdale where the braves have always struggled

Every team in the N.L. Has beat up on the Marlins and with our luck of late they’ll turn the tables around and wipe the floor with our a-s-ses

By Tony

May 7, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this

There were whispers last year about letting Giles go and keeping Furcal…but with Renteria, it almost doesn’t seem like Furcal was ever here. I agree with everyone else, Giles has to get out of the leadoff spot. Man, I wish Chipper would get back on the roids, I mean his “workout program” he had during his productive years. Everyone know Chipper was on the roids…LaRoache, LaRoache, LaRoache. Nothing else needs to be said. It seems we were having these same conversations last year. NEW OWNER WHERE ARE YOU??? JS hands are obviously tied.

By Kelvin

May 7, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

Getting thrown out of a baseball game is nothing to be proud about.

From all I see and hear during Braves games, Bobby Cox would appear to be a seriously troubled individual.

I can tell that from just listening to his non-stop “c’mon kid, that-a baby” babbling between every pitch when the Braves are at bat. Does he ever shut up?

Contrast that to the quiet dignity and composure of most major league managers.

The Mets skipper had a much bigger beef than Cox in that second inning, yet didn’t come off as a demented senior citizen.

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

Bobby was right: Smoltz should’ve had 2nd (actually, he should still be running because the Met’s still haven’t called timout); looked like Deluca was right too - he made the tag. So the umps blew it not once, but twice.

Kelvin, I don’t think Bobby’s an idiot. He was glad to have the chance to blow some steam and try to charge up the team, create a little urgency. For one day at least, it worked.

By geechee

May 7, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

Kelvin, if you were to poll all the players in the Major Leagues about who their favorite managers were, you would probably find Bobby Cox at or very near the top. That would even be among players who have never played for or against him. Do you know why that is? Okay, I’ll tell you. It is because the man is known far and wide as a player’s coach. He is manager who will fight for his players and fight to protect his players. He was thrown out today because according to the rules, John Smoltz should have been allowed to take second base and he was not. Had he been standing on second he would have scored a run that inning that he was not allowed to score. It ended up that he did not need that run to get his win but, with all the one run games that the Braves have lost this year, the chances were real good that he would have needed it. Now hopefully you will understand why Bobby was thrown out and also noticed how it sparked the Braves bats.

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

At the risk of piling on on this issue, no, Willie Randolph didn’t come off looking bad (or “demented”).

He sat on his hands while his star catcher got tossed. I’ll take Bobby’s approach any day.

By Ralph Peepers, Braves Fan

May 7, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

Well, Kelvin, you said it best. Willie Randolph is a man of quiet dignity and he is a superior manager, too. His personal habits and impeccable hygiene are also superior to Bobby Cox’s. Bobby Cox could learn much from Willie Randolph. I think Willie will teach Bobby a thing or two this season.

By bill

May 7, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

Hey, ease up on Kelvin…it is obvious that she doesn’t watch much baseball.

By Dirty Dawg

May 7, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

Kevin…bet you Bobby Cox would be willing to get thrown out of a lot more games if he could be sure it would mean a 10 run victory…some things are worth being thrown out for, and this was one of them.

If opposing teams are gonna throw fastball strikes to Frenchy, they’re gonna be real sorry…off-speed, off the plate, all the time and his career will have been short lived…and as soon as Kelly Johnson’s ready he should be in the lineup. I know Francouer’s been doing better the last couple of games but only because the Mets were stupid…anybody that won’t take a walk can be pitched to…and anybody batting under .030 (yes, .030) with two strikes on ‘em has no business batting as high as 5th or 6th.

If Bobby can’t figure some way to get Wilson Betemit into the everyday lineup then I have a suggestion - leave Chipper at third, have Wilson play first…and lead off. We need to get Giles out of the lead-off spot and LaRoache out of the lineup altogether. Bring the Jurries (sp?) kid up and trade - or release - LaRoache. Then if he, the kid, can cut it, move Betemit to second and sit Giles.

By geechee

May 7, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Ralph Peepers, believe me if Randolph had it to do over again, he would have jumped off that bench in a nano second but, he does not have Bobby’s experience. Bobby was smart enough to respond before Smoltz had a chance to get thrown out. Randolph allowed his catcher to be thrown out and it probably cost them a game in the standings. Should the Braves right the ship and turn this all around and maybe win the division by one game, hopefully you will remember this game.

By Chop Chop

May 7, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this

MBATL, Willie Randolph had no chance to save LoDuca from being ejected. I think it took about three seconds for LoDuca to spike the ball in front of the ump. After that, he was long gone.

DirtyDawg, LaRoche isn’t going anywhere. He’s had slow starts in each of his first three seasons. This year’s slow start is magnified because of how poorly the team has played so far. As long as he’s up around .265-.270, 20-25 HRs and 75-80 RBI (and hasn’t continued striking out at a Rob Deer-like clip) by the end of the year, he’ll be meeting the organization’s expectations. While I think a first baseman should give you more offense than that, the Braves could do a lot worse. As for Francoeur, the guy is second on the team in homers and RBI. I’ve dogged him some, but he seems to be doing a better job at the plate in the last few games, so I can’t complain too much. I guess his protective pad worked.

By Ralph Peepers, Braves Fan

May 7, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this

Yes, but Willie Randolph has his team in first place by eight games, and he did not get thrown out. He was there to complete his responsibilities in the dugout. Moreover, he did not alienate the umpiring crew. Why would a manager have to act like an old, demented clown to inspire his team? Shouldn’t they be ready to play when they take the field? Did I miss it or was the squeeze a surprise to Smoltz? That’s just bad coaching. Bobby’s missing a step. It’s understandable and it happens to a lot of old people. Willie had class today.

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

You’re right, of course, Chop Chop, Willie had no chance to save Doluca. But the nature of the managers was revealed, I think. Willie should’ve been out there fighting for his players, even after the fact, but wasn’t. Like I said, I’ll take Bobby’s personality as manager over most anyone.

I’ve been saying for a year that LaRoche has “Mark Grace” written all over him. Hope someday I’ll be proven right. And I wouldn’t trade Frenchy for any RF in the game if I had a longterm interest.

By geechee

May 7, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

Ralph you are entitled to your opinion but it is not a baseball educated opinion. If Smoltz had been thrown out of that game, the Braves would have lost. I know you will strongly disagree with this also but you would be wrong once again. The reason the Mets are 8 games ahead has nothing to do with the managers. It has to do with the owners and the desire of these owners to field the best teams possible.

By JC

May 7, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

Has anyone considered that Francoeur might just be a notorious slow starter (a la Chipper) like many free swinging power hitters? Last year his stats in the minors were inferior to the bigs. Some guys have a hard time getting their timing together from spring training where they’re either hitting against minor leaguers or guys throwing 80% to 95 mph fastballs and exploding sliders. My guess is 125 strikeouts and a below avg OBP but .275/30/100 by year end

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

JC, I agree. Plus, Francoeur sat on the bench in the WBC, didn’t really get many at-bats. So it’s more like April 15 than May 7 for him.

Given the slow start, I would guess more like .260/30/90, but who’s counting? Not bad for a 22-yr-old.

By Ralph Peepers, Braves Fan

May 7, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

Bobby has five and six hitters making out after out and McCann who is batting .345 and hits seventh. Renteria is hitting .351 and no one is on base for him (Giles 0-5 today) and Bobby continues to pencil Giles in at leadoff. Betemit is riding the bench and LaRoche offers no protection for Andruw.
Bobby has used up his pitching and misused the pen. Why are so many players hurt? Why can’t this team manufacture a run? If they score twelve they win. If they need one, forget it. If they get one, he sends out his man Reitsma. Willie seems to be better attuned to today’s game. He is a gentleman and conducts himself as one. His team is ahead by eight and it’s the first week of May.

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Guess Jerry Narron is one of the all-time greats too, Ralph. Eh?

By old timer

May 7, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

So now we have this deficit like in ‘93. It ain’t over by any means, but this team isn’t near as good as the ‘93 group. On the other hand, the Mets and Phils aren’t as good as the Giants were in ‘93. We have the same problems we talked about in the spring — bullpen and leadoff hitter — plus the starting pitching is not that good. Not that bad, either, but certainly nothing like in the past when we could run three number one starters out there. It’s gonna be a tough climb.

By Ralph Peepers, Braves Fan

May 7, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

Not to say that Bobby is getting a little forgetful but he walked up to a beautiful woman at a bar in NY and said, “Hey, Beautiful, do I come here often?”

I’ve been kidding all along. Bobby is the man. However, Willie will be the man if he wins the pennant. That division thing is way overplayed.

By Chop Chop

May 7, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

Peepers, if you think alienating umpires has cost Bobby Cox in the past, you should take a look at the pennants on the left-field rafters at Turner Field. The guy has 2105 wins and will be fifth all-time in managerial wins by the end of this season.

By journalist to the rescue

May 7, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith must weigh in on this topic. chop chop, those are not pennants. you know better than that. peepers, willie randolph cannot carry all of bobby cox’s division signs. now, pennants … that is different. bobby hasn’t won one in awhile and he has had the best pitching in baseball. he no longer has the best pitching - but neither does willie. who will win this year? willie has an eight game lead right now. will bobby find a way to beat him and the mets? the answer is … crows. yes, crows … which way will the crow fly? some say the crow will pass through philadelphia this year.

By drummerdad

May 7, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this fun? We Braves are sweating all of these early season cardiac tests our team is already putting us through and Mets fans like Kelvin and Peepers are gleeful over our struggles. So I weigh in. Willie Randolph has always been a class act. These guys want to tee off on Bobby because he gets kicked out of some games? Please…! I think he is preserving some baseball color that you don’t see much anymore. Remember when managers used to stop games to accuse opposing pitchers of doctoring the ball? Earl Weaver was notorious for turning his hat backwards so the ump could get an up close dose of his vitriol, saliva and all!! Bobby has a great reputation with players because he is a class act. And I don’t think those 14 division championships are there without Bobby having a great touch with his players. But that is what really galls these Mets fans…14 division titles. None for them.

By geechee

May 7, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this

Ralph if you are going to look at statistics and use to statistics, use them all. Look at the whole picture. If you subtract 2 or 3 pitchers, the Braves have maybe the youngest team in the Majors. Bobby is doing the best he can given that the owners were only willing to spend $78 million on payroll this year. Asking them to compete on the same level with the Mets this year is asking a bit much if, the owners do not allow the management to go out and find us some relief pitching.

By jojothemonkeyboy

May 7, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

Yeah, 131-0 from here on in.

Giles continues to suck as leadoff.

JJMB

By Tomahawkin

May 7, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

You can’t even compare LaRoche, to Mark Grace. The two of them have 2 different styles of hitting (Grace used to choke up on the bat while not using glove, and he hit the ball where it was pitched, LaRoche on the other hand is pretty much a dead pull hitter with a long swing) Until LaRoche starts going the other way more often and shorten his swing there is no comparison

By Tomahawkin

May 7, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this

Willie Randolph, MAN PLEASE! The man has managed at the big league level 4 a year and a half now, and you are making him look like Casey Stengell, no way, I’m not sold on Willie unless he wins the Championship, especailly with that high a-s-s payroll he has to work with

He!! I’d take Larry Bowa over Randolph in a heartbeat…

By Tomahawkin

May 7, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

LaRoche in the 5th spot is a Joke! he scares No One, I’ve had enough of him, I’d take Rico Brogna or Wally Joyner

By Bob

May 7, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Kelvin has what it takes and knows how to use his 3rd ear. I just hope that he’s not deceived into believing that Bobby’s behavior, while natural, isn’t often times well orchestrated.

Kelvin, I was one of several that strongly suggested that Bobby should do one of his patented “getting ejected” artifices to to “kindle” the boys … mine’s not different or special … but I went further than most and also suggested that if that didn’t work, he bribe the opposing pitchers to throw at the Braves’ players until they decided to fight back … wouldn’t expect Bobby to bribe anybody but wouldn’t have been surprised at his ‘baiting’ them to accomplish exactly that. Had he seen that post, he’d used his third ear and gotten the massage … the baseball genius is not the dummy that some may think.

He’s very well respected by most, if not all major league managers and has won a few more than most. His constant “chattering”, as you call it, lets everybody on the team and in the stands know that he believes they can do it, is always cheering for them … and maybe more importantly … is more than just the manager, he’s part of the team!

Most who have played baseball are familiar with that style and react positively to it … it works, look at the record.

He’s only 65, and he’s been successfully doing exactly what he’s now doing for longer than you’ve been talking it’s not senility, it’s style.

You have to decide for yourself and everyone has their own perspective. Regarding managers, another Bobby who managed the Mets and is now in Japan … has one of the very best baseball minds around … had he been able to get as much out of his players as our Bobby does his; it probably would be us trying to break their streak … not the other way round.

Always beware of those who are a bit too quick to endorse what you say; they might truly agree or they might be wolves in sheep’s clothing; looking for sheep to follow them.

If you do go back and look at the old posts, you’ll find a lot of differing opinions on Bobby Cox as a manager, most of the negatives are frustration venting because is he’s not doing what the blogger wants him to do.

Regardless, looking at them and carefully listening with your third ear … will hold you in good stead and give you a broader plane of reference when you seek to make an informed judgement concerning the truth … which I know is what you’re trying to do.

By Penn

May 7, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Giles will come out of his slump when he stops swinging at those shoulder high pitches. As long as he keeps doing that they will continue pitching him up high. Surely JP and Giles can see that in the film.

And when he levels out his swing and stops taking those upper cuts. He’s swinging like he’s going for the bleachers on each swing. He is there to get on base, not hit home runs.

By Ralph Peepers, Braves Fan

May 7, 2006 11:24 PM | Link to this

The team that has the high payroll chooses Willie Randolph as their manager. That should say something. They want Willie leading them in the dugout - and look at this - In front by eight games the first week of May! Will he win a championship (I assume you are talking a real championship: a NL pennant)? We should know sometime in October. In the meantime, Willie just continues to win. Class act in the Mets dugout.

By Bob

May 7, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this

Kelvin, it somehow dropped the last thought.

You never learn much winning ches matches, it’s the ones you lose that teach the most.

Always pay closer attention to those having differing views than your own … they usually have what they think to be good reasons for thinking as they do. Then try to figure out where they’re coming from; that what your 3rd ear is for … and if you can’t … don’t be bashful about politely asking them why they think as they do.

By geechee

May 7, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

At this point Ralph, it is obvious that you are a Mets fan using some BS name. You went a little overboard with that last comment change your name to something we’ll believe.

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

Geez, guys, it’s a baseball blog. Lighten up.

By Hal

May 7, 2006 11:37 PM | Link to this

This willie Radolph thats suddenly so wise and great …did he get a lot smarter over the winter or does it have more to do with the fact that the Mets are trying to imulate there cross town rivals and BUY a pennant ??the really frustrating part of the way the braves have played is that the MESS are NOT all that there a team with real defensive problems TWO starting pitchers and 3 or 4 guys playing WAY over there head Matsui and the right fielder who wasnt good enough to play for the padres come to mind .Lets see how the MESS do when they start playing someone other then the nats and marlins before declaring ole Willie the next casey stengel

By geechee

May 7, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this

LOL, this is light for us MB, just wait till Sept. :)

By Ralph Peepers, Braves Fan

May 7, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

Willie seems to have your goat, and Bobby’s number. Willie looks good in his hat, Bobby’s hat has some foreign substance on it. Willie has an eight game lead and it’s only May! Can a Braves’ fan not admire a true professional from another team? Put Willie in the Braves dugout and maybe these young players would learn to put the bat on the ball.

By MBATL

May 7, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

Geechee, thanks. I’ll try to get used to it. Appreciate your bringing me back to Earth.

Ralph’s style seems familiar. Hmmm…

By journalist jimmy smith

May 7, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

bob, is that you? are you the hated ralph peepers messing with mbatl, geechee, and chop chop? confess and all will be okay. now, crows … carolina lady reports the freezer is filling with crows … not much meat on a crow. kinda ike this blog topic … no wonder it has no byline. would you admit to writing such gibberish? dob’s return is much anticipated. award winning journalism will soon return to this blog.

By Kentavo

May 8, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this

I’ve heard Giles’ name in connection to ‘roids. Could be the reason he no longer has the “pop” in the bat. And the fact that he doesn’t take any pitches and swings from his shoelaces.

By hoho

May 8, 2006 12:24 AM | Link to this

Renteria batting leadoff? hmmm, he is the best hitter, just might work. Now will Bobby go for it and shake things up already- today was a good start with his tirade. I agree- a little more time for Jordan at 1st would be a better idea than LaRoache for all those seemingly wasted AB’s. LaRoache seems to go up there with only one approach, regardless off the situation or count- does that amount to a guess hitter? At least Jordan has been a bit more consistent in making contact, and I don’t think he’s embarrased himself at 1st. Let’s do something to get it started!! Go Fishin Bravos!!

By Bob

May 8, 2006 12:40 AM | Link to this

MBATL,

Private apologies … just nudge me occassionally when I need it, I promise to listen … no response expected or necessary.

From my crazy perspective, I’m not sold on the lack of bats during the WBC as being the culprit.

The only thing classical about the WBC, dubbed a Classic by the baseball gods before even one game was played … was the hype … and the determination and spirit of the asian teams.

However,I did think that it was important to the Rocket to play.

I think the WBC had a major impact on Braves players amd management alike.

The biggest problem as I view the impact of the WBC … is that the players were required to spend time away from the watchful eyes, guidence and programs of the managers and coaches of the teams for which they were to playing.

I would think that the Braves may have been one of the harder hit teams in that regard; especially when we consider the number of young players on the team and the fact that we had a new pitching coach trying to evaluate the players and “implement” his system.

Consistent with the same perspective, it was time needed for the young team to build upon the closeness and relationships from last season and also allow time to develop new ties with new players and coaches.

The bottom line; the WBC adversely affected everyone because of the distraction of following the tourney itself and the disruptions to the team’s Spring Training programs; regardless of who did or did not participate.

I suggest that it may well be late March for more than one.

By Dave

May 8, 2006 12:56 AM | Link to this

everything will be fine only if one thing happens: we get bullpen help. we have to go get a closer before june. chris reeksma cannot get the job done. blowing that lead late friday night in the 14 inn game hurt. we have some extra money so they need to go out and see if they can get a joe nathan or fransico cordero of the rangers or brad lidge(unlikely) or heck even jose mesa would be better than reeksma. put reeksma back as the setup and he will return to being reitsma. i say get cordero. he is not closing currently in texas and he has fallen out of favor there. his stock will never be lower and when he is right he was one of the best young closers in the game and if im not mistaken he was an all star once or twice. just get some help john and we will be ok.

By Bob

May 8, 2006 12:59 AM | Link to this

Jimmy, I’ve been called Wally Cox, Bobby’s Uncle and Don Knotts … actually the names assumed in their most famous roles, to be precise. But I must protest my innocence in the referred to situation … I don’t know no Ralph … except maybe one old, overweight bus driver.

However, I’m sure that you can understand and appreciate it when some folks recognize that they’re in the presence of a master and want to emulate his style.

By MBATL

May 8, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this

Had it with this gamesmanship, or whatever it is. Have fun.

By Jeff Box

May 8, 2006 01:59 AM | Link to this

Bobby is the best manager in the game but it takes players to produce.The BRAVES have three or four players producing.Three of them are second year players and then there”s Andrew and Edger! No one else seems to give a shi!!!!!t other than Smoltz!!!

By Dirty Dawg

May 8, 2006 02:24 AM | Link to this

It’s Betemit people…Betemit. Potentially the best player on the team and they don’t have him in the lineup. Sit somebody. Giles…LaRoche…somebody. Move Renteria to second if that’s a better option than Wilson there, but do it.

Diaz isn’t helping at all…get somebody up here that can, or at least find out if they can…and pray that teams pitch to Francoeur the way the Mets have. If I were a pitching coach in this league, he’d never get a fastball in the strike zone…and he’d never be on base.

By Seth

May 8, 2006 02:46 AM | Link to this

OK, a few things.

First, don’t compare Bobby to Willie. That’s apples and oranges. Different styles of coaching, different payrolls at their disposal, different levels of experience.

As far as Bobby getting tossed… good for him. All of you that said he’s a ‘players coach’ are dead on. Didn’t anyone see the Braves player’s reactions in the dugout? They were smiling. SMILING in the midst of this terrible slump. Sometimes it takes things like that to help your team loosen up if not pump them up.

As for someone earlier talking about Bobby “chirping” from the dugout and saying that he needs to shut up. are you kidding? You don’t approve of a manger cheering his team on? He should be their biggest fan!!!

And whoever it was up there that was talking about Bobby alienating the ump, two words: Coach K. I hate Duke basketball, I do, but having a coach who the officials respect highly (if not fear) is an invaluable weapon against your opponent. My Demon Deacons could’ve used that kind of edge this season.

I was reading a story about Hernandez, the plate ump, giving Smoltz a few inches on the outside corner that the M-E-T-S pitcher wasn’t being given… THIS WAS IN NEW YORK, PEOPLE! The umpires are part of this glorious game as much as the players are coaches are. Don’t think that when Cox jumps down one of their throats for making a bad call that the umpire doesn’t become more conscious about not messing up again. Cox is not crazy, he’s not senile, and he’s not classless. What he IS however, is a student of the game who understands how it is played, and more importantly how it is WON.

By forcesaberz

May 8, 2006 02:52 AM | Link to this

Giles will not be sat, the guy has just had some problems lately. He will come out of it and Cox will not sit him so long as he is on the team. Betimet is 2 big to play 2nd as well. I think he should play first tho, Chipper has good D at 3rd, so who cares if its him or betimet at 3rd? Frenchy absolutely blasts balls above his knees….which is exactly why teams have been pitching him below the knees, which are not strikes. Yet he still swings and gets these lame swing bunts. Once he learns to take those pitches he will be a BEAST. Maybe Chipper can teach him some things….Chipper is so patient. I love the guy

By forcesaberz

May 8, 2006 02:53 AM | Link to this

Also one reason the mets are so far ahead is they have been playing FL and Washington a lot. They took advantage of it. Now the braves must do the same. If they cant then its time to worry. But not until then

By forcesaberz

May 8, 2006 02:54 AM | Link to this

oh, and last, but not least, this wkend could have been a braves sweep….they lost 2 very close games. I still cant believe they lost that 14 inning game…we NEED a closer.

What about the Pirates closer? Would they deal him?

By Sosebee

May 8, 2006 03:06 AM | Link to this

LaRoche is a problem, if not a liability at the plate. Yes, he is notorious for being a slow starter, but Andruw must have protection. Can anyone guess why McCann hasn’t been moved into the five spot? I can’t.

As bad as LaRoche has been, I think it’d be a poor decision to replace him at 1st with Brian Jordan. BJ is a great guy, I love him, really, I’d let him baby-sit my children (if I had any), but every time he goes to the plate I feel like he’s an instant out. Yeah, I know he’s been hot lately, but I still don’t think he’s been convincing. His success of late has been surprising. That’s a bad thing. Betemit at first might be the most logical move. Jurris was robbed of a spot that he earned and I think that he should be called up and Jordan released. That makes me sad to say, but sometimes neccessity is painful (see ‘Old Yeller”). Maybe give him a bench coach job in Richmond or something.

Oh, DONT TOUCH RENTERIA. Don’t move him an inch in the lineup. He’s been SO darn successful in the two spot, and he’s not fast enough to be a leadoff guy. He does need someone in the leadoff spot for him to drive in, but I still think that Marcus is the man for the job - fast, good bunter, contact hitter. I know he’s been flailing at some high fastballs but Terry will correct that. And his bat-speed isn’t dropping, anyone who is swinging at mid-ninties fastballs up around their nips is going to look slow.

I think we all know that we need to go after some relief pitching before the break, but who is available? I’m seriously asking my fellow baseball-nerds for help on this one. I figure we can serve up K-Jo and maybe someone on the 25 man roster (Betemit?)but who would we go after? I’d love to see us get some young fireballer that could raise that bar for that closer spot.

By Chop Chop

May 8, 2006 03:21 AM | Link to this

jimmy, you’re obviously right about the pennants. In order to avoid future confusion for Braves fans (and me, I guess), the division “pennants” should be replaced with division signs like this: %. That way, no one will ever think about those division signs and mistakenly type that a division title is a pennant ever again.

Just imagine future managers looking up to the rafters and saying things like, “Hey, fellas. That team up there gave 2005%. If they could do it, so can you.”

Sounds like a great idea to come up with when you’re half-asleep, doesn’t it?

By HEAD COACH

May 8, 2006 03:43 AM | Link to this

Awesome blogging guys ! I luv it. Lots of good points made so far. The next ten games against the doormat Marlins and Nationals will tell a lot more about the Braves as a team. We need speed at the top of the lineup. Leading the major leagues in strikeouts is an ugly and obvious team problem , TERRY PENDLETON ARE YOU READING THIS ??? Giles is an all-star 2b , but he isnt a leadoff hitter , Ive been saying it since spring training and I’m going to keep blogging away till we get someone…….. anyone else in the leadoff spot. Francoeur , dude your a superstar in the making. However , your Dave Kingman act at the plate is getting old. If the pitcher will give you a walk , take it. Watching Laroche play and Betemit sit is gonna drive me insane before long. McCann , dude you look like Johnny Bench with a bat in your hand , really you do. Brain Jordan , I owe you an apology , dude you got some game left in you old man , way to play ball. I was wrong about the Renteria trade , JS made one hell of a trade picking this perrenial all-star ss up , he isnt Furcal defensively but his bat more than makes up for his range with the glove. BOBBY COX , your a lunatic and I luv it !!! Watching you chase that umpire all over the infield was gut busting funny ! Hey , they blew two calls in one play and deserved the abuse. Chris Reitsma is not as closer , never has been and never will be , he simply lacks the mental and emotional make up for the job. Bottom line is this : We need a leadoff hitter with speed and a lights out closer. 5-11 in one run games tells me this , you cant start games without a fast leadoff hitter who can hit , bunt , steal a few bases, or finish a close game without a dominant closer. These two major holes have to be filled , they have to be ….. period. Yea , I’m gonna keep blogging away until somebody listens too sound coaching experience.

By Bob

May 8, 2006 03:57 AM | Link to this

MBATL, If and/or when you see this …

No gamesmanship intended on my part in my response to you regarding the WBC … though I disliked the WBC for several reasons. I thought that what I said was at least in directional agreement with your point that the WBC did set Jeff back and thought that … my honest conviction that it adversly affected many of our players and coaches, regardless of whether or not they played in the event … was a view consistent with the Francoeur comments.

I assume that the backbreaking straw was the Post responding to his: “bob, is that you? are you the hated ralph peepers messing with mbatl, geechee, and chop chop? confess and all will be okay”.

I felt that a short, “toungue in cheek” denial was an appropriate response that would be appreciated by all “5” of you.

Had it been intentional gamesmanship, I assure you that I would have patiently awaited a better opportunity to engage the skillful Mr. Smith … while leaving folks unsure as to whether or not I was the now “infamous” Mr. Peepers.

My read was that Jimmy’s remarks were most likely just a playful, though somewhat oblique, offer to to continue an earlier exchange triggered by a discussion between The Lady from Carolina and me … concerning the possibility that Jimmy’s was using alternate aliases.

I responded without really appreciating what Jimmy was talking about. My reading of the later Peepers Posts came after posting my response.

By zimba

May 8, 2006 05:34 AM | Link to this

headcoach right. we like play florida washington next we like chances we been given braves play good baseball next mets tumble soon hope. we worry philedelphia is good team.braves win in the end of season no problem.we go to world series.laroach no good betemit good lead off giles no good we need lead off man we need closer where is boyer? go braves.sorry my english no good i try. thank you i love braves very much very very much francoeur is getting better chipper is not andruw needs lightning strike other teams.smoltz is still good

By DustinH

May 8, 2006 06:15 AM | Link to this

I like how Bobby Cox sticks up for his players. I think well get it turned around this season but we need some changes. We need a trade like how we got Mcgriff back in the day. The problem is the mets have owners who actually care about their team and the Braves do not. What a sad day when u let a streak end like this when all it might of taken was a extra million or 2 to help shore up the bullpen. I HATE U AOL/timewarner!!!!!!!!!! Get the FCK ouT of OuR town, your obviously mets fans. but sad truth is …..will the new owners care either about our proud tradition weve established here in Atlanta with baseball, or do the same crappy job the current owners are doing?

By Tony

May 8, 2006 06:38 AM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

We wish Adam LaRouche was a Mark Grace. Mark Grace was .300 hitter while he was with the Cubs. His lowest average was .273, and the one next to that was .298. Sorry DON’T EVER MAKE THAT COMPARISON AGAIN.

Francouer is way too young for anyone to be complaining. Will it leave at that. I agree with everyone else about Betemit. What the hell is going on with that? C’mon Cox.

By the way I’m up here in DC, and just to let you know if you care…the Nationals broadcasters are Bob Carpenter(formerly St. Louis Cardinals) and Tom Paciorek(formerly Atlanta Braves). Whatever you say about Paciorek he is much better than Ron Darling. And Carpenter is a pro.

By tfbrave77

May 8, 2006 07:56 AM | Link to this

Until Renteria’s hitting streak ends I would not risk moving him at this time. That type of move could have an adverse effect on his hitting. I have also heard that he does not like hitting lead off. As far as Giles is concerned I would bat him 6th or 7th in a run producing spot and give Langerhans a shot at leading off. Langy has always been a fairly patient hitter with some speed and decent on-base numbers. I would give that a try before moving Renteria.

By Greg

May 8, 2006 08:00 AM | Link to this

Where is Dave O’ Brien?

By Carolina Lady

May 8, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this

DOB, I hope you’re enjoying some well-deserved time off, but you are sorely missed!

By Kevin Mcglinchy

May 8, 2006 08:43 AM | Link to this

Until we get a couple descent guys in the bullpen, and find someone who can close out a game we will have a hard time making up 8 games. Not to mention we only have one reliable starter. The belief that castoffs and rookies can make up a 50 million payroll difference will not work every year like it did last year. You have to spend money to compete! - spelling fairy

By Matt

May 8, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

I think its time folks stop talking about the NL East being a two horse race. By the end of the week, you could see the Phillies closing in on number 1 in the division. The Braves sure do have a lot of work to do, but I think our current record is more a reflection of the Braves getting off to their traditional slow start combined with the team getting sodomized by this horrible early schedule. Our bats will start coming around, with the possible exception of Laroche, who has not had a consistent year since he’s played for Atlanta. Never thought I’de say it, but it might be better for the team to sacrifice the defense at first base and let Jordan (playing surprisingly good offensively) play the majority of the games.

By Stuart

May 8, 2006 08:51 AM | Link to this

It was a one day respite. If the Braves can sweep Florida and get the Nattys at home at least 2 of 3, then we might be in a pennant race. Let’s be honest though, our team is closer to K.C. in the standings than we are New York or the wild card. This problem with the braves is the lineup, rotation, and bullpen have so many holes in them. The braves cannot get anything going without falling in one of them, so it makes getting on a hot streak almost impossible. Face it, the Mets are better this year and its not close.

By HomeydaBrave

May 8, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

We have a wooden Indian on firstbase, no leadoff hitter, no speed, no bullpen & inconsistency in the middle of the lineup, not to mention too little punch from leftfield and secondbase.

I’m not optimistic about this season. The Mets have money to pull a big trade for another starting pitcher, while JS is scanning the waiver wire to add another hasbeen reliever to compliment Reitsma and Remlinger.

By Harry Doyle

May 8, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

My biggest frustration with LaRoche is the glowing potential. I feel like he is capable of being so much better at the plate than he is right now. It just shocks me how much he has struck out and how low his average is. He has a great glove and really good stretch at first, I just wish it would “click” for him at the plate. If he ever gets it figured out for himself at the plate, just that one litte think that’s different for each guy, I think he would be a great 5 hitter. For that reason, I don’t want to see him yanked or traded, even as much as he makes me mad. I think he can be a great 5 hole hitter and BC feels like it will “click” for him and we will be glad we waited.

By rayray

May 8, 2006 09:16 AM | Link to this

The Braves are done…. good squad with heart ( finally) and good 2-4 hitters, but it is hard to win without a good leadoff hitter. Not only is Giles not hittting, but he isn’t getting on base… 1-15 against the Mets this weekend. Cox/Shurholtz must make a move soon. And one day, Cox will learn to take a run using the bunt no matter who is batting!!! One more rant, this team swings at more awful pitches than any other Brave team…and that is sad.

By p

May 8, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

are you nuts? they’re 4 games behind the phillies and 8 behind the mets. their trending says they will be 16+ out at the all star break.

they could be double digit behind by the end of the week.

By Matthew

May 8, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

As much as I hate to admit it, the streak is in trouble. All of the points about 1st base, leadoff, and the bullpen are valid. However, I would like to mention that the Mutts may not be our biggest problem. They have Pedro and Glavine, but then who is left in their rotation? Lima? Trachsel? Who are these people? Don’t tell me that Pedro and Glavine are each going to go 29-1 with 230 innings each. It ain’t happenin’. Billy Wagner is not the closer he once was. We have his number, but we NEED a closer ourselves. Reitsma is a setup man, not a closer. The Phillies may be the better team in the long run, although they seem to find a way to lose every year (can they get Larry bowa back-he was fun to beat).

If we can sweep the Marlins, then take out the nats and fish at home (10-0 would be perfect, but 8-2 is more likely) then our supposedly dreadful eight games back will be reduced to four or five. From there we play the snakes and the padres while the Mutts play the Phillies, Cardinals, Brewers, and Yankees. Surely the deficit could be erased by then.

Putting McCann in the 5th spot is good, except it leaves the lower 3rd of the order as automatic outs. 7th hole is Laroche (K), 8th is Langerhans (walk him), 9th is pitcher (DP) inning over. Laroche really needs to bat 9th and put the pitcher in the 7th hole. He could at least bunt a runner like Giles over and not be a wasted out. I feel bad for Laroche-he is an outstanding, Glod Glove caliber defensive 1B. But his bat is killing me. Have you noticed that empty stare before he bats? I wonder if he is having some kind of personal or family trouble. I know we like to bash players but we really don’t know what’s going on-it may be a slump or it may be something else. Either way, I hope he is okay, and I hope his bat wakes up.

GO BRAVES!

By BILL

May 8, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this

Just heard on ESPN that Mets are about to make trade for Barry Zito. They keep getting better while we get worse. Look at the Phils 8 wins in row. This is hard to take.

By willie

May 8, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this

The Braves will not sweep Fla. or Nat. bet on it. These teams get fired up for the Braves and the Braves let down on bad teams.Bobby needs to get mad more often. Good Day (BRAVES REsT)

By journalist jimmy smith

May 8, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith now evaluates the peepers’ post of the previous evening. bob, peepers’ post portrays possible problems from dugout. peepers probably perceives portly skipper to be potential problem surrounding team’s poor post-season playoff performances. as you know, jimmy smith tries to avoid controversy and will make no statement on this matter. now, dob … he should be back today to guide blog with steady hand.

By Mets Stink

May 8, 2006 10:24 AM | Link to this

People say that the braves have had a bunch of bad luck this year, losing so many 1 and 2 run games. If we had any kind of bullpen we would have won all 3 against the Mets this weekend. The hitting hasn’t been great, but the pen has lost several games for the Braves this year.

By darrin

May 8, 2006 10:32 AM | Link to this

without a significant trade this year we finish 4th

By yars

May 8, 2006 10:42 AM | Link to this

As for the Mets trading for Zito, why in the world would the A’s trade Zito right now? It’s only May. Are they already throwing in the towel? The A’s would be fools if they traded their ace at this point in the season. What message would that be sending to the fans of Oakland? Don’t believe everything you hear on espn. They are known to get cocky at times. As for the Braves, I wouldn’t give up on them yet. The Mets have had a fairly easy schedule so far and have gotten off to a good start. The last time I checked, there are still 130 games left. Let’s see the NL East standings Sept.1 and then make your decision on who will win the East. It’s too early to predict anything. I do agree that the Braves do have some holes to fill. LaRoche looks asleep at the plate, Giles looks confused, and I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Chris Reitsma is not a closer. Damn front office, go out there and find a real closer. What were you doing over the winter? It’s good to see that Frenchy’s average is on the rise and Renteria & McCann are playing some great baseball. For the person who said that Chipper is/was on steroids, are you nuts? The guy has never touched the stuff. Just because you dislike a player doesn’t mean that you should make up bogus rumors about him. Chipper has always been a natural talent, going back all the way to little league. His body looks the same now as it did 10 years ago. As for the starting pitching, I say release Jorge Sosa and bring up someone from Richmond until Horacio Ramirez is ready. We have a good chance of winning when either Hudson, Smoltz, Thomson, or Davies is pitching. When Sosa is pitching, you can guarantee a loss. What is he, 0-5 now?

By Hal

May 8, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this

i agree with Head coachs assement we need a leadoff guy and a closer and the twins have both and there probably available !Nathan and castillo would fix two major areas of concern. there price probably would be steep .The twins would want a couple top prospects plus a cheap alternative to play second .they might consider a Giles/Lerew /Startup ! We would be taking on payroll but to my knowledge we havent used any of the money Chipper gave up .The longer the managment team waits the more expensive the solution becomes the time to trade is now rather then later.If Frenchy can refine his aproach and Larouche gets it togeather this still could be a formidable team

By CK

May 8, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

Doesn’t anyone realize that the past 14 years of regular season dominance has made the Braves desperate for some competition?

The Bravos had a couple of choices: They could have played the year with one hand tied behind their backs but fear of injuries closed that idea down.

They thought about just using five less players than the other teams but of course the Union would have been all over them.

So we come to this…spotting the other teams nine games and then start our season. Obviously Frenchy came up with the idea and he was the catalyst in maintaining the well hidden plan.

But now the cat is out of the bag and the Bravos will again establish themselves as division leaders no later than July 1m 2006.

Remember you read it here first…

By Joe Roman

May 8, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this

I’d be surprised if Manaya’s big talk about a trade comes to anything. Not even the dumbest G.M. is going to trade away a starting pitcher who can offer the Mets immediate help. Waving your wallet around is hardly the way to make a smart trade. Check out the New York papers today. After one lop-sided loss, the Mets are already in a panic mode. Whining about yesterday’s game like little leaguers. They are not emotionally capable of handling adversity. If the Mets were dealing with what the Braves have been dealing with, there would be mass suicides in the Mets locker room. The Phillies won’t hold up either. This season more than any other will show what Bobby Cox means to this franchise. Willy Randolph and Charlie Manuel simply won’t measure up.

By Realistic Ricky

May 8, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this

Head Coach…you are right on the money. Giles can not bat leadoff. LaRoche can not bat at all. Reitsma can not close. Bullpen is a major weakness. Diaz is in over his head. Betemit has got to play somewhere. Chipper and Andruw have got to step it up some at the plate. Starting pitching is a little overrated. I will never give up until it is officially over, but my faith in the Braves staging another major comeback is slipping badly.

By metsmanintheatl

May 8, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this

you are dreaming…goodbye!!!…GO METROS!!

By Kentavo

May 8, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this

I wouldn’t get too hyped up about beating the Nats and Fish. Have you ever noticed the Braves basically play to the level of their competition? The same way they can never hit a pitcher they’ve never seen before. They’re going to be seeing lots of pitchers for the first time down in Fla.

By JOHN B.

May 8, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Hal,

You are right about the Twins having what the Braves need. Nathan and Castillo would be perfect for the Braves. And if the Twins fall out of it in June, then they may be available. I just hope the Braves go after them. Nathan and Castillo make a combined 9 million. If they include Giles in the deal, or trade him elsewhere, then it would only be an additional 5 million. Let’s all pray that the sale of the Braves happens soon.

Mets fans,

The Mets have had a very easy schedule this year..except facing the Braves 9 times. And they are only 5-4 against the Braves after this weekend. And I believe each win was by 1 or 2 runs. But the Braves have blown them out like 3 times. It’s still early, so Mets fans should not get too excited.

By Matthew

May 8, 2006 11:28 AM | Link to this

Joe Roman, you are right. It won’t be until after BC retires that we Braves fans will realize how special a manager he is. Yes, there’s only the one WS title in this Braves run. But over 2100 wins, multiple Manager of the Year Awards, and a streak of division titles that may never be touched. Thank you BC, from all true Braves fans.

And Met fan, come back in September and explain why your beloved Mutts fell yet again. You are the reason why there can be no respectful admiration of the Mutts. I appreciate what the Cardinals have done, for example, mainly because the fans are usually very respectful. I can’t stand irrational people who have nothing better to do than to troll on a blog of the opponents’ hometown newspaper. Are you so envious of the Braves’ success that you have to do whatever you can to get close to the Braves’ success? That’s okay, you can stay and troll if it makes you feel better.

Go Braves!

By journalist doing commentary

May 8, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith with commentary. andruw jones is a most special player and last year he demonstrated how dominant he can be. this year he is followed in the lineup by a hitter batting .200 and with 32 strikeouts. andruw will never see good pitches with laroche playing like he currently plays. even francoeur, with the horrible start, is now hitting .232 and is beginning to connect with power. giles is not hitting - where is the powere to the gp and all the doubles of years past? he is not doing the job at leadoff and renteria’s ability to put the ball in play and move the runner is being wasted. mccann is special. his daddy taught him to hit and to be an unselfish player. no one is on base for him. think how many rbi’s he’d have if there were runners on base for him! bobby cox is your manager and he will either make some adjsutments or leave it like it is. if he leaves it like this the braves may be in trouble. they certainly do not have the pitching they’ve enjoyed in the past and the pen is an embarrassment. now, baby seal … baby seal agrees with everything jimmy smith has written. seal of approval.

By Joe Roman

May 8, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

The reason why the Mets fan is on this blog is because the NYTime’s Mets forum is populated by classy posters-surprisingly enough. That being said, I don’t think that forum is an accurate reflection of Mets fans and in general and certainly not the franchise. Wasn’t that Twilight Zone inning fun!!?? What a wonderful game! Only in baseball can situations at the top of the game turn into church league confusion. It thought that was so cool….and somehow touching. I LIVE FOR THIS!

By dylan

May 8, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or does this season remind anyone of 92 when we fell behind the giants early and realized we needed another bat at first base so we went and got Fred Mcgriff who was so hot he actually ste the stadium on fire his first game in Atlanta. I am not saying we need a nother fire but a power hitting first baseman to put in the middle of our lineup doesnt sound too bad Schuerholz needs to work his magic and get us that extra piece to awaken this ballclub and help tunr our fortunes around.

By Jordan

May 8, 2006 12:18 PM | Link to this

We will be able to see if there is a pennant race after all when these next 10 games are over. We have a 10 game stretch against the Marlins and the Nationals (both with losing records) which should give us a chance to get some Ws. The Mets have to play the Phillies, Brewers and the Cardinals during that stretch (all with winning records) which should give them a chance to get some Ls. As far as head to head performance with the Mets we are 4-5 (we should be 7-2, but we blew some games) which is not that bad, but we need to beat the other teams in our league that we are supposed to beat. Being swept by the Brewers and the Phillies hasn’t helped anything (That is 5 losses right there). Now the Mets aren’t the only team we have to worry about. The Phillies are ahead of us as well, and if they beat the Mets in this next series, yes, they will be bringing the Mets down a few pegs, but the Phillies will most likely gain some ground on us as well. So, we really just need to go on some winning streaks if we are going to get back to the top. Yesterday’s game is a start, but we have been playing well, we just have to finish the games that we start well.

By dylan

May 8, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

Btw those are pennants out there you wina division pennant for winning the division what youa re talking about is a championship the national league championship that is and ever since they addend the wild card MLB has cheapened that accomplishment it seems like every time the owners get together and decide something new they cheapen the postseason a little more its gotten bad now where teams that didnt win their division not only get a shot at winning the world series but thanks to the all star game rules they may even get home field advantage. The baseball postseason has become a joke anyone that believes the best team wins under this format has a screw loose.

By Joe Roman

May 8, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

Interesting analogy, dylan. I haven’t done a lot of roster scanning, but I think LaRoache and Marcus might attract some trade interest. Does anyone else get the feeling that putting Giles in the leadoff slot has really messed with his head? He doesn’t seem like the same guy anymore. I like Langerhans in leadoff and Betemit at second base. On the plus side, I’ll say it again. McCann is the real deal and maybe the second coming of Carlton Fisk.

By JasonInMaine

May 8, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

The Nationals will likely make some moves both with the roster and in the front office with the new ownership. I wonder if JS can work out a deal with old buddy Stan Kasten and get Nick Johnson. Ayala is injured and they are going to trade Cordero, but Nick J is already better than LaK will be and some (like Peter Gammons) feel Johnson is ready to go to the next level. He is also relatively cheap at $3.2 mill. That would solve one out of the three problems we have. We need a closer and a leadoff hitter as well, but I am more worried about LaK than Giles. Of course, there is no question that the biggest weakness is Reitsma. With Smoltz closing, we would have won probably another 4-5 games, including that miserable Friday night game.

By Bill

May 8, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

I think Chipper needs to start taking ground balls at first base. If he can make the transition, he needs to play there full time. If he can’t make the transition, keep him at third, but at the very least he’ll likely hold up better at first. Give the starting third baseman’s job to Betemit, and the lineup will look something like this.

2B Giles SS Renteria 1B C. Jones CF A. Jones 3B Betemit RF Francoeur C McCann LF Langerhans

With LaRoche on the bench, the bench is much improved. Thoughts?

By Jordan

May 8, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

Wilson Betemit could play first, but so can Jordan, Jurries and I haven’t given up on LaRoche— BUT MOVING CHIPPER, WE HAVE SEEN THAT THAT WILL NOT WORK, at least not now, maybe in a couple of years when his body begins to break down.

I like the idea of trying to trade with the Nationals for Nick J. AND Cordero. We could have a better 1B and Closer. I’m curious what we would have to give up, but as long as it isn’t a franchise player, it would be worth it.

By JOHN B.

May 8, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

I would be very surprised if the Nats traded Cordero or Johnson. I doubt it would happen.

The Braves do need to improve in those areas though. A lead off hitter, a closer and a 1st baseman are all needed. But the Nats are not likely to be dumping anybody. The Twins, Royals, Pirates, Orioles and other teams that will not be play off contenders will likely dump salaries. Let’s hope the Braves are not one of those teams. Hopefully they can pick up some pieces (Castillo and Nathan from Twins and maybe Conine from the Orioles) from those teams and make a run for the WS.

By BOB C

May 8, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this

Could not agree more with Sosebee. Even if we have a problem at lead-off don’t move Renteria. He’s seldom hit lead-off and is magic in the two hole. As for the Bobby-Willie debate. The difference between the two is if Bobby doesn’t make the play-offs this year, he’ll still have a job. Can’t say that about Willie - or Charlie in Philly. By the way, am I the only one who won a dinner bet with their long-suffering wife - saying in inning one that Bobby wouldn’t make it to the ninth. You could see the frustration all over his face - the eruption was just a matter of time.

By imro

May 8, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

I think that the braves will evantualy turn it around, but i tinhk that bobby has to put LaRoche on the bench for a while. And the lineup must look like the following. 1. Langerhans 2. Giles 3. Renteria 4. A. Jones 5. C. Jones 6. Francouer 7. McCann 8. Jurries

By Matthew

May 8, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

Anything verifiable from these posts, or is this speculation? The thought of adding Cordero and N Johnson sounds good but I see two problems:

1. Would Robinson trade to improve a division rival?

2. What would we lose? Laroche and Reitsma in a straight up deal sounds good to me…

By Blake

May 8, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this

LaSuck probably has negative trade value if that is possible. LaSuck and cash to anyone that will take him, for a bag of balls and maybe one of those new helments.

That is a good deal

By Blake

May 8, 2006 01:32 PM | Link to this

If Casey comes back healthy, I still think Wilson is an option in July

By Chop Chop

May 8, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the new Nats owner (Theodore Lerner) is going to look at trading away good, young players at this point. First of all, the sale hasn’t been approved by the owners yet. That should take place in the middle of May. MLB officials are hoping the sale will close by mid-June.

In other words, don’t look for that team to be making any moves until new ownership takes over. The funny thing about that is that the Braves might be in the same situation. Schuerholz may not be able to make any big moves before the sale of the team. It’ll be interesting to see if a sale with Liberty Media gets done soon, is held up, or falls apart. That could have a lot to do with whether the Braves can go out and get the help they need.

By Matthew

May 8, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

Blake makes a lot of sense. Unfortunately, the Braves may be stuck where we are, except for our kids in the minors. We could bring up Salty or Jurries for 1B. Do we have any closer-type pitchers in the minors? Oh, one other thing. I plan to see the MS braves play West TN in Jackson, TN next month. Anybody I should be looking at as future studs in the majors other than Salty? What about pitchers to watch? Thanks.

By braves fan

May 8, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

That was just one game. But scoring 13 runs does seem as though they let off some frustration, which may help ease the tension of how poorly things have gone so far. It’s funny, the Braves haven’t played all that badly. They’ve just had a stretch where they keep playing just good enough to make games close.

A couple of things that they need to do: 1) Flip flop Renteria and Giles in the batting order. Neither one is a prototypical leadoff guy, but since Renteria is hot, that would mean Giles would get more opportunities to hit with a man on base. And that typically forces pitchers to make fatter pitches, and could help Giles get it going. 2) Move Sosa out of the rotation. Before the weekend I was hoping that would be Chuck James. But now that he’s hurt, they need Ramirez to get back to starting. 3) Move Brian McCann to 5th in the order. The kid is the smartest hitter in the lineup not named Chipper. He works the count and takes good swings. But too often his hits go to waste because, LaRoche and Francouer aren’t on base enough, and he’s usually followed by the 8th spot and the pitcher. Langerhans usually hits 8th, and he’s a good hitter. But the 8th spot typically gets junk to hit since they know they can get the next guy out easier. So by moving McCann to 5th, I think that would create more scoring opportunities for the Braves. And perhaps that could get them 1 or 2 more runs a game, which if they’d had that over the last month they could be within 2 or 3 games of the Mets by now. 4) Get Jordan more at bats. I’ve always liked Jordan, but thought his knees were done. He’s shown that if used correctly, he can be productive. And using him more at 1st base, keeps his knees from taking too much punishment, and his hitting is the beneficiary. 5) Get a closer!! Reitsma just doesn’t have the stuff. He’s a nice setup guy, but his stuff is not nasty, which is what a closer needs. A good closer needs to be intimidating more than anything. And if you have hittable stuff, nobody will fear you. Having hitters fear you will get you more outs than making good pitches.

By Blake

May 8, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this

Bad news, looks like Mets may be in the market for a big time pitcher. (Zito, Willis both possible)

By Horizon

May 8, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

If the Mets get Zito or Willis, the Braves had better start preparing for 2007.

Send Giles & Reitsma to Minnesota for one of their relievers. Platoon Jurries on first with the wooden Indian, & put Betemit on secondbase, hitting leadoff.

By forcesaberz

May 8, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

I am having a hard time missing Furcal cause renteria has been awesome, however i know one person who does really miss him….Giles. Marcus isnt seeing all the fastballs he did last yr when furcal was on base. that is why his gap power has decreased. I would love to see langer hit leadoff, the guy is patient and will see pitches…hes also got a better BA then marcus. THen i’d like to see McCann in the 5 hole and giles in the 6 hole.

By forcesaberz

May 8, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

i think that bobby cox’s only fault is that he does stick up for players up till the point they are axed. It is this that keeps him atting Frency and LaRoach in the 5 & 6 holes … moving them would send a signal that they are failing at their jobs…which they are. McCann could have so many RBI’s by now

By D-brave's fan

May 8, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

I hate to be the one pointing this out but with the crackdown on steroid use, you’ll see more players like Giles have poor years. An earlier post mentioned that his bat speed seems down, I think his power is down also and I have to wonder about the “pumped up” look he has sported the past few years. As far as the Braves go, Schuerholtz will pick up a quality reliever and the Braves will be fine. Unfortunately, he’ll have to trade Thompson to do it.

By baby seal

May 8, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

seal daddy jimmy smith is right. seal of approval always. seal likes rain delays early in season. fun for seal…

seal misses dob. seal misses wilson betemit. seal misses nachos, wants popsicles. jimmy can baby seal have popsicles? can betemit play first? even brian jordan looks better than current first baseman. plus he has presence. why not hit langerhans leadoff? he probably not overrun third base. seal like langerhans.

By Blake

May 8, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

the wooden indian…….. now that is dang funny right there

By Tomahawkin

May 8, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

Someone said that LaRoche had glowing potential, I don’t think so he did not have Ryan Howard kind of numbers in the minors, so I think he has already reached it, a .260-.270 hitter with 20-25 homers, and overrated defensively, His glove is good but he has no range…

Mutts Fan Ralph…The only manager I’m gonna admire is Willie Randloph (He!! No)

Correction Ozzie Guillen, He gets the most out of his players, and doesn’t put up with petty crap

Ralph lets see where you’ll be at come september with you yankees crap on…

By hk

May 8, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

… I used to pitch in my high school days, remember my manager’s constant chatter ‘you ‘da one babe, fire ‘dat pill, you ‘da one’ … I knew I definitely wasn’t ‘da one’, but it really really helped …

Bob has this nice way of spotting in alot of us the thing we like to do and encouraging us to do it … mine I guess, is ‘guessing’ …

… posted this late last night on the old blog, as usual a day late and a dollar short … had another thought or two, think I’ll post it again …

… the Braves have the following going for them that the Mets/Philly’s don’t have:

(1) … they have gone through multiple adversities in the early going, from which they will benefit greatly … springboard, underdog type thing..

(2) … they have alot of young guys that will come of age and soon ..

(3) … they have alot of guys that are always slow to heat up, get in sync, and they will, in fact, heat up …

(4) … they have behind the plate in my view a future Hall of Fame catcher, who is growing by leaps and bounds, and his perception will help our pitching staff hugely as the season progresses …

(5) … Braves have allowed 19 SB, 8 CS versus the Mets 25 SB, 9 CS … comparing SB minus CS, Braves are 3rd in the league …again big help to our pitchers over time ..

(6) … Giles and Edgar gradually getting comfortable with each other, with Andruw, by far the best defense up the middle in the league, more help for pitchers comfort level ..

(7) … they have Bobby, who raises greatly the probabilty that the above things will happen ..

(8) … as a result, my ‘guesses’:

… June 1, five games out of first ..

… July 1, one game up …

… Aug 1, six games up …

… Sep 1, nine games up …

… Season end … seven games up ..

By Blake

May 8, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

hk,

please give me some of what you are smoking

By Jim

May 8, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

McCann is not a natural 5 hitter. Just like asking Giles to lead off MAY be affecting his performance, asking McCann to bat 5th could hurt his approach and decrease his effectiveness. Francouer is beginning to show a little more patience, and the results have improved a bit. We may just have to put up with his streakiness. Except for Renteria, and McCann, ALL of our hitters are streaky, and there is really no better 5 or 6 hitter in the lineup than Francouer. Hopefully the eventual number 5 hitter is playing some place else at the moment.

The question of the leadoff hitter goes a bit further. The leadoff hitter only “leads off” once or twice a game usually. The bigger problem with Giles is that he is also not producing in “non-leadoff” situations — like the K with none out and a runner on 3rd the other night in Philly, and with the tying run in scoring position against Julio in the 9th inning Saturday. Unless and until there is a trade, he needs to be in the lineup for his defense, but it might be best to bat him 8th (switch Giles and Langerhans — trade for a more productive 1B, and leave the rest of the lineup alone).

By Jeff

May 8, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

Langerhans should be leading off. He can take pitches, steal bases, whatever needs to be done. My line up: Langerhans, Renteria, Chipper, Andruw, McCann, Francouer,LaRoche, Giles, Pitcher. Can you imagine having Giles in the 8 hole. It also gives us nearly an complete Lefty-righy flip flop up and down the order.

By Joe Roman

May 8, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this

First, I seriously doubt steroids are playing any part in Giles’ problems. Batting leadoff has really messed him up. Bobby has the patience of Job, bit I’ll bet even he is beginning to think of alternatives. Secondly,I’m glad to see others think Langerhans is a leadoff alternative. He has speed, hustle and bat control. The latter is the most glaring flaw with Jilly. When he first came up, a friend of mine said “He swings like he hates the ball.”. I thought it an excellent observation. I still do, and it’s a GOOD trait in a hitter……in any spot but leadoff. I think the Roach is a classic example of a player who is perceived as one who would benefit from a ‘change of scenery’. That also makes him a player who still might come around-especially under the patient tutiledge of Cox. It’s quite a paradox. Oh, have y’all noticed how Furcal is faring away from the nurturing Braves organization? It is not a pretty picture.

By Chop Chop

May 8, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

hk, if the Braves win the NL East by seven games, I will eat my hat.

I’m not as disdainful of the Mets as some people are. That team is good and is going to be good all year. The Braves have a chance to overcome that eight-game deficit, but if they do, they will not pick up fifteen games on the Mets and run away with the division. The Mets would have to have too many significant injuries to guys like Pedro, Glavine, Wagner, Delgado, Beltran and Wright for that to happen.

And yes, I would like to have to eat my hat.

By Dr. Jay

May 8, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

Sorry Dood…I know you’re trying to add a little sunshine, but the fact that Furcal is stinking up Dodgertown doesn’t help me here in ATL. I’m giving our superb management* the rest of May to turn us around by trade, callups, magic dust - whatever - and if it hasn’t happened, then I’ll panic. Big Time.

*no sarcasm whatsoever. JS and Bobby deserve the benefit of the doubt.

By Blake

May 8, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this

The Unibrow should bat 9th

By Chop Chop

May 8, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

What’s this stuff about hitting Langerhans leadoff? He can’t bunt for a hit, he can’t steal bases because, while he has good speed, he’s a long strider who takes a while to get going, he doesn’t get on base enough and he’s not as patient a hitter as Giles (which is why people want Giles out of the #1 slot, I guess). Langerhans is a natural as a #6 hitter. He has decent homerun power and can hit doubles, but he’s too streaky to hit at the top of the order. At the moment, the Braves unfortunately have too many 6-7-8 hitters.

By Tony

May 8, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

Yars,

Don’t be naive. Chipper is not the same size he was when he started. If you dumb enough to believe that Giles or C. Jones were juicing when the majority of baseball players were…they you are naive. By the way I like Chipper and Giley. Roids were just part the game…As I’ve stated before until the Braves get a new owner, which will allow JS more flexibility, then the Braves are stuck. LaRoache is so disappointing.

By Blake

May 8, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

Good point about Langerhans, plus has anyone noticed how much he strikes out?

By MGL

May 8, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this

Jeff,

Where do you get the idea that Langerhans can steal bases? His entire Braves career, he has 0 SB and 3 CS.

By Blake

May 8, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

New Trade Proposal-

Reitsma and LaSuck

have been traded for:

Greg Anderson and Victor Conte

This is a big upgrade for the offense

By Joe Roman

May 8, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

Give ‘em whatever you want, Dr. Jay. I don’t think they much care. All I’m saying is Furky is a turkey without Bobby and the boys. I’m also saying that Renteria for Furcal shows what J.S. can do. If eight games out on May 8th makes you panic, switch over to the NBA playoffs. That’ll calm you down. If falling asleep is your idea of calm. I’ll bet even the players on winning teams are bored by now.

By Chop Chop

May 8, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to get back on the juice. I wonder if Javy and Sheff’s lockers might have some stuff hidden away…

By craig t

May 8, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

There are several issues on this team, more than in year’s past. Is it time to panic no. But to look at this team as is now and think we can compete for another at least divisional run is being a fool not a fan. Giles isnt a leadoff hitter, Laroache wouldnt be a starting 1st baseman for ANY other team in MLB.By the way, our ace, Hudson, isnt and ace and hasnt pitched like an ace since coming to the ATL last year, and I dont hear enough about that fact. He HAS to pitch like he did when he was with OAK for the braves to really have a chance. Plus our bullpen needs an upgrade at at least the closers role, and our bench needs work and improvement as well.So in conclusion:

1. Lose Laroache, get an everyday good first baseman 2.get a new leadoff hitter, giles can’t hit leadoff
2. new closer and more bullpen help
3. improve the bench-outside of betemit

Other than this, this team is set

By Tony

May 8, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

Javy Lopez…geez being off cycle is a killer. He is just a shell of himself. Chipper, Giles and yes Javy need to converse with Barry and Jason to see what they use off cycle. Obviously it’s working. Oh yea and Sheffield can offer advice also. Steroids probably still would help Adam LaRoache. Speaking of steroids…SAMMY SOSA whole career was a joke.

By hk

May 8, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, … I’ll drag that thing back out once in a while over the next few months (if I’m not too far off, that is) … either way it ends up going, at the end of the season we can have a ‘hat eating’ party (or maybe a ‘crow eating’ party in Carolina Lady’s back yard, kill two ‘birds’ with one stone …

By Bob

May 8, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

This is an “offday” and I obviously had one of those yesterday. As penance, Bobby suggested I sit at the far end of the bench, observe, and try to learn something.

That was working well until I saw a real master at work with his 20 foot pole … positively perfect … no plans to emulate him though, young Master Seal is already in training.

Blake, HK smokes from the same pipe as Mr. Franco … they’re the same age too, though HK just won’t admit to being that old … only real differences are that Franco is no longer in Atlanta and can still hit.

Was it really Wally Cox that sent those David O’Brien posts? Today’s Monday … maybe he meant next Monday.

I liked the forcesaberz post too, but can’t agree with his “I think that Bobby Cox’s only fault is that he does stick up for players up till the point they are axed.” line.

Bobby’s got many faults … can’t put may finger on any at the moment … using it to hunt and peck … but I always thought “sticking up for players up till the point they are axed” was one of his greatest strengths.

Well, back to the bench.

By MGL

May 8, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

Food for thought - Jordan’s batting ave is .200 when he only has 1 AB per game and .409 when he has 2 or more AB’s. Perhaps he should play some more 1st.

By TrouserTrout

May 8, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith — do you have the lottery numbers for today by any chance — you seem to think you know everything else!

By Boomer

May 8, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Marcus Giles is not a patient hitter. And it’s gotten to where he swings at anything and everything thrown to him. TP also needs to tell Marcus that when the pitcher has just batted (and run the bases) he is supposed to take a couple of pitches,prolong his at-bat and give the pitcher time to return to the dugout for some PowerAde. That’s part of being a lead-off hitter.

By sam

May 8, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

hey braves fan this is the mets year not the braves

By hk

May 8, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

… back in 1997, my son started keeping a Braves MVP during the season, which was the total of Projected Runs plus HR’s plus RBI’s for key players… talking back and forth on the net, I started plotting it in a line graph … ten years later, still at it, thought I might as well post it since it’s an off day …

… here is a ten year line graph … Andruw (blue line) and Chipper (red line) are the only two guys that have been there all ten years …

… below that is a table showing the latest week, plus some two year graphs at the bottom that are easier to read … too early in the season to see much of a pattern, but the table is interesting, shows projected stats … for instance, Frenchy right now is projected to have 73 Runs, 31 Homers and 115 RBI’s by season’s end …

here

By john

May 9, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

The Braves problem is that Bobby Cox doesn’t when when to leave his starters in,he doesn’t realize how shakey his bullpen is,Thomson pitching tonight with an 8-1 lead and he pulls Thomson out and brings in Ray,Yes Ray has pitched well,but Thomson is also pitching well so why not leave him in the game and let him get a complete game,remember the bullpen has a problem holding leads,with a 7 run lead it is not advisorable to lift Thomson for this bullpen,It is like cox doesn’t like his starters to get complete games.This shakey bullpen needs all the off days it can get,so Cox should oblige and give them this night off with Thomson pitching with a 7 run lead.Wake up Cox,what are you thinking,do you want to lose the division to the sorry a* Muts by falling further and further behind them,you should allow your starters to go deeper.