Braves

By Jamie

May 9, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

Great article!!! I have like this kid since I saw him play at Pearl(AA). He impressed me more than Jeff did. I couldn’t keep watching him play. I would start checking out how another player was doing and before I knew it I was watching him again. If I was a betting man I say he will have a better career than Francoeur will have.

By Miranda

May 9, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

Wonderful blog DOB! Very happy to see one all to McCann himself! I definitely think he deserves it!

I look forward to watching McCann play everyday! He’s one of those players that you just LOVE watching play the game. He’s all around very good! I love watching his ABs too because he seems so patient and he knows what he’s looking for when he gets up there!

He’s also very nice. Probably one of the nicest, most down-to-earth people I’ve ever met! Great guy!

Once again, great blog DOB!

By Ursino

May 9, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

Of all the rookies called up last year, McCann has been the most impressive, as he has been so consistent so far in the way he plays the game defensively and offensively. Let’s not forget that he plays a very difficult position that taxes the body enormously. McCann gets my vote for the All-Star game

By dan

May 9, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

so, dob, any idea why cox hasn’t batted him fifth, yet?

By Chop Chop

May 9, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

You almost get the feeling that a tiny bit of McCann’s success in the early stages of his career comes from the fact that he’s a low-key guy. He just goes about the business of trying to get better and winning baseball games, which is exactly what you want from a young big-league catcher. His dad helped teach him how to hit, but more credit deservedly goes to the guy who implements the plan. Brian McCann always has a game plan in the field and at the plate. “Gameplan” McCann…kinda corny, but it would be an appropriate nickname.

By Miranda

May 9, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

Agreed Chop Chop… very good point! He’s quiet and does stay low profile, I like that. He knows what he’s doing and he speaks with his actions!

McCann had definitely gotten my votes… I’ve voted 50 times thus far!

By Del

May 9, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

You can add me to the growing number of McCann supporters. As I’ve mentioned several times earlier, BM and ER are the only two Braves earning their paycheck and krrping whatever faint hope this team has left, alive. Maybe we should hire McCann’s dad as a replacement for TP!!! Now that would be a real plan.

By GEORGE W

May 9, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

I have had alot of respect for McCann as a ballplayer since one of the games earlier this year when he had a great overall game. Forgive me because I cant exactly remember the stats or the other team but he was interviewed at the end of the game that they LOST. He was being prasied for having such a good game even though they lost and the whole time he just looked p** off and not want to talk about what he did. His comment was I am sorry guys it is hard to talk about this right after we lose the game. And pretty much it was a short interview because they knew he did not want to talk. That shows me that he is definitely a team guy and that is always a great asset for any team to have. We are lucky to have this guy around.

By adam

May 9, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

Besides Renteria, Mccann has been our most consistent hitter all season. I think he is benefitted by the fact that he is a low key guy and doesnt get the attention that Jeff does. He is very quietly becoming an all-star calibur player

By uga4ever

May 9, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

All of the experts think that McCann is the best long term talent of the “Baby Braves” He is fundamentally sound and very consistent. I just hope they move Salty to first base, so we can keep them both. Salty is the best prospect we have in the minors hands down.

By Del

May 9, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Salty … What is his status? He he still hurt? Is he playing 1B full time, and if not, why not? Sure hope they have realized by now that AL is NOT our long term answer and are preparing Salty to take over this position later this year. Too soon would not be soon enough IMHO.

By teoa

May 9, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this

Nice article…McCann has been great. Amazing what he is doing as a 22-yr-old catcher — the demands of that position usually slow the learning curve if anything. I thought last year he was a really solid player, but now it’s looking like he can be a perennial All-Star and potentially one of the best catchers in baseball for years to come.

The frustrating thing about McCann’s great numbers (especially with runners on) is that he rarely gets to bat with runners on base. He may as well bat leadoff since he follows the Black Hole of LaDouche and Frenchy (although I am encouraged by Frenchy of late — he will be a good player, hopefully sooner rather than later. LaDouche is hopeless.) The same has been the case with Langer — always had good numbers with RISP, but rarely gets those opportunities. Seems like common sense that you would try to get these guys some more ABs with runners on (as well as provide protection after Andruw) but unfortunately common sense is rarely applied to Bobby’s game decisions.

By MGL

May 9, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

Del - Salty is not hurt that I have heard. You may be thinking about Jurries. However, Salty’s numbers after 109 AB’s are almost the same as LaRoche’s but against AA pitching.

By Blake

May 9, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

I think trading Salty is a very good option. He may be good or great or he may not be. Right now, especially this summer, his value should be higher than it ever will be. I would take advantage of that and bring in another young cornerstone piece. Remember in two or three years we have lots of big salaries coming off the payroll (Hampton, Smoltz). So, why not package him if a guy like Willis comes available?

By Miranda

May 9, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

Yes, Salty isn’t hurt and that I know of he hasn’t done anything but catch. The three games that I’ve been to he was catching. I definitely don’t want Brian to go anywhere! I like Salty, but I love McCann! I think we need to use Salty in a trade later on when he’s a bit more valuable. It will be interesting to see what they do though.

I went to Pearl Sunday and Salty had two bombs that missed going over by an inch! One of em everyone knew was going over, but it didn’t… made a loud bang out there too when the guy caught it!

I could only imagine what Brian’s stats would look like right now had he been higher in the order.

By uga4ever

May 9, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

It seems like all of our prospects that come up that are ready to play are position players. Where in the hell is all of our pitching prospects? We need some solid young pitching. Davies is good for about 10-13 wins a year. Hudson probably has 4-5 more solid years. I would hardly call McBride, Devine, etc prospects.

By Miranda

May 9, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

I’m hoping that McBride will settle in soon and I think he’ll be fine once he does.

Will Startup… I like this guy so far from what I’ve seen. His stats are good I believe. (I haven’t really looked at them closely) I’ve see Will in person and he seems like he’ll be good!

By Blake

May 9, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

ESPN reports that Mets may try to swing a deal for Livan Hernandez, remember he was acquired by Omar in Washington

By Jim

May 9, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

I too am very impressed by McCann’s approach at the plate and his defense behind the plate. However, I would not like to see him bat 5th for the following reasons: 1. He is not a prototypical 5 hitter. He is not a real power hitter and putting him into a position in the lineup that requires power may cause him to change his approach and reduce his effectiveness. (Isn’t that a consistent theme of the Giles is not a leadoff hitter blogs?)

1. He is only 22 and needs to develop in a role that puts the least pressure on him.

2. The bottom of the order has been productive when it consisted of McCann, and Langerhans/Betemint. If McCann moves up to number 5 (and Giles stays put at number 1) the bottom of the lineup would read: Francouer, LaRoche (or other way around), Langerhans, pitcher, then back to Giles. How many 1-2-3 innings does this look like? We can’t afford to have a reasonble chance to score in only 1/2 of our innings of every game.

By Blake

May 9, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

What happened to the Bobby Eject-O-Meter?

By Jim

May 9, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

The number 5 slot should be filled by “none of the above”, but by an aquisition or trade for a major league average or better first baseman.

By Jason

May 9, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this

I like beans.

By Voice of Reason

May 9, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

I miss the pie talk…

By Gabriel

May 9, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

McCann has been solid. Remember he hit the homerun off of the Rocket in Atlanta’s sole win in the Houston playoff series? He needs a good voice. Thanks DOB.

With regards to the lineup, I think Bobby should keep mixing and matching.I think maybe he should try and put Langerhans at the 1 spot and give Giles a chance to regroup, maybe at the 6 spot. He hits many a double in the gap. Keep Renteria wher he’s at or maybe experiment for a game at the 1 spot (after the streak :) Move LaRoche down as well or give Brian Jordan some more swings. Laroche/Franco tandem worked well last year. My two cents!

G-

By Dave Knockahomer

May 9, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

Thank you, DOB! Great article! and appreciate your realizing that McCann has been left in the dark …but no more. You are a class act!

By Del

May 9, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

Blake … Good point re. trading Salty. But if we did something like that we better have a good 1B prospect coming up soon, or start cross-training someone PRQ; ie. Betemit or Kelly Johnson at Richmond, etc

By TennesseePaul

May 9, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this

Great article DOB. Chop Chop, the nickname is corny, but a good point. McCann is the man with the plan. He has been solid. Now that is all I can say for fear of jinxing it.

We gotta win to night guys!

GO BRAVES!

By Elizabeth

May 9, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this

True Braves fans know who’s getting the job done….and McCann is at the top of the list.

By Jamie in Richmond

May 9, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

I’d sure like to see Bobby keep giving BJ at bats in place of LaSwing….

By eric the elder

May 9, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

DOB, I hope a blog dedicated to McCann isn’t anything like a Sports Illustrated cover with Francoeur on it. I love the kid, too, but maybe we should keep him a secret.

By Del

May 9, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

PRQ = no no

PDQ = yes yes

By Tomahawkin

May 9, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

I think It’s to early to call him an all-star, perhaps if he were hitting fifth all season he’d have at least 25-30 RBI’s

,And if the team was winning more games he would get more consideration

Someone said in the vent “Frankly, I’m thinking this series with Florida may be more important than the last one with the Mets. After all, if we can’t beat the stripped-down Marlins, then we really have problems.”

Something is wrong with us if we don’t take 2 of three, afterall we have played well in Fort Lauderdale since the marlins came into the league

By Tomahawkin

May 9, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

Correction…I meant to say we have not played well in Fort Lauderdale since the marlins came into the league

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

no neck. big preliever paronto has no neck. big head sits right on big shoulders. fearsome looking - much like aussie man but different - fewer tattoos evident, paronto is square looking man and paronto does not say, “bloke”. now, record … 1-1 and era of 1.02. 10 scoreless inning pitched. maybe he is able to be the new closer. will we see him tonight? how will reitsma react if he is no longer bobby’s closer? name calling? spitting? crying? much will be revealed. paronto is yet another “p” player for bobby cox team. nickname? “polly” is possible - paronto sounds like a parrott. journalist will never be the first to call big man “polly”. journalist will leave that to someone else to try. now, toes … toes have been forgotten for a few weeks and toes are too important to leave aside. journalist is unable to report on parontoe toes but something makes journalist suspicious. as readers know, dob discounted rumors of player with web-toes by venturing into shower area and looking around. journalist jimmy smith does not wish to do this so any toe news on parontoe must come from dob. now, music … pan flute is a favorite of jimmy smith. journalist invites dob to download some nyanga and ngororombe tunes for listening pleasure. now, baseball … in 10 minutes.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 07:02 PM | Link to this

DOB, Timely and one of your best!

Mama used to say that the only reason I got married was because I needed someone to replace her always reminding me when I was wrong. If we’d had Blogs back then, I might still be single. My wife’s been under the weather for a while … and it’s good to have some folks helping her out.

Hopefully, everyone puts cotton in their third ears before reading this and won’t read more into it than is intended … it’s just an old man sharing his funny bone being tickled when reading some posts to the previous Blog.

By Miranda

May 9, 2006 07:11 PM | Link to this

McCann is 5th in the lineup tonight!

By Bob

May 9, 2006 07:12 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith,

You may have fallen victim to a case of mistaken idenity. I plead guilty to the “Bryan” sloppiness … not a spelling error though … initially had “Wilson, Edgar, Larry, Bryan” as the infielders and accidentally left it “Bryan” when replacing Jordan with Prado.

I think that McCann is one of the best things to come along since “storebought” bread. My “Edgar, Edgar, Edgar” lineup wasn’t intended to be a snub … and actually had the “Edgar, Brian,…Edgar, Brian” order that someone suggested before changing it so as to include the “assuming he can pitch” close.

As an aside, 24 straight for Edgar … move over Joe.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

will giles ever be on first base when renteria hits one of those doubles? baby seal fears giles’ swing - reminds him of seal clubbing back in canada. ron gant is new announcer man. braves now have 8 announcers! division champs! renteria is left stranded. sad.

By David

May 9, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this

Dave,

What happen to Jeff T. on TS? I see that Ron Gant is now doing color. Is this the beginning of several more changes?

David

By Jeff

May 9, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this

Ever since 2003 in Rome(A) McCann has been more impressive with the bat than Francoeur. Hopefully Jeff can stay out of that slump and help the Braves with his bat as much as he does with his glove. I also hope that the Braves remember how much McCann means to them and the fans when all the other good catchers come up from the minors and McCann costs a considerable amount to keep. Lets make Jeff and Brian franchise players. They need it for ticket sales.

By TennesseePaul

May 9, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

Hip-Hip-Hooray!!!! McCann is in the 5 spot. LaRoche is in the 7 spot. Let’s produce today guys. Prove this is the way to play!

By Bob

May 9, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

It’s good to see Brian hitting 5th!

Dylan, during the rain delay, I’ll try to respond to your earlier post on the previous blog.

I like good, sincere feedback like yours … it keeps me honest and on my toes … reminders that clarity is as important as content and that occasionally some folks might actually read what I post.

I actually struggled with how I worded the “Andruw-dance” reference. I know for a fact that Andruw successfully used the “wide” stance in the minors and believe that he’s indicated that the “new” is really “old”. My memory is that he was still using it when he got to Atlanta, but the mental pictures aren’t that sharp … so I was careful to say “… that wide stance “probably” brung Andruw to the dance”. I could be wrong, but I still think it “brung” him.

I agree that Andruw has always appeared to “tinker” a bit too much. But, seeking unattainable perfection is a trait common to many of the talented. It’s hard to find anyone who isn’t guilty of “tinkering”.

You may remember the story of a “time traveler” who observed David strumming the Lute while composing one the Psalms. He said, “Little David, I notice that you play the same note over and over and over… while Elvis and all the rest … they move their hands up and down; all over the place, and produce a bunch of different sounds” David’s simple reply was “All those other folks are looking for it … I’ve found it!”

I agree with you that talent is a gift that you can’t buy … you can’t learn to be talented. However, I do believe that you can learn how to better utilize the talents that you have … and that you can benefit from qualified instruction on how to so do. While somewhat “Tongue in Cheek”, my cautions about “stat guys” and the use of statistics are serious. The theory that a player cannot learn to have a good eye at the plate may indeed be correct … but I can’t believe I’m alone in my hope that it isn’t.

Maybe it’s off point but “The Cat” gives all lot of credit to Don Baylor for helping him “see” the ball better. Certainly those with “instinctive sight” have a distinct advantage … but I honestly believe that most players at this level can benefit from such instruction; regardless of their skill level. It’s another sport but I doubt that Tiger pays his “coach” only for his cheerleading and confidence building abilities.

I agree that indicators like the “walk to strikeout” ratio can be valuable in judging young talent. But my perspective is probably a little different than yours … those with good ratios stick out like sore thumbs … talent shows and there’s little reason for the “judges” to look at the stats to recognize it when guys are doing well! I think the good talent evaluator pays more attention to the “stats” when they’re bad … and tries to determine whether the talent’s there and if the flaws are “fixable” or “fatal”.

You haven’t been paying much attention to things I’ve said … if you think my Frenchy’s home run swing remark is the most absurd thing you’ve ever heard. I agree that I may be absurd … but it can’t even compete with some I’ve made … not even in the top 10!

More importantly, I didn’t really say Frenchy would hit 400 … or even 300. I only suggested he might have a chance to so do … “if he could swing that way consistently and refrain from swinging at pitches that aren’t in his hitting zone” …that’s a tall order but I’ll stand by that too.

Your own evaluation sounds well reasoned and realistic … maybe a bit optimistic I was just sharing my enthusiasm after finally seeing some evidence of the hitting potential that folks have been talking about since he was first called up.

I think that Andruw’s mediocre average results from a combination of many things but that “strike zone” recognition is a not major problem. However, poor pitch recognition and over-estimating the size of his own effective “hitting zone” seem to be chronic illnesses with Andruw … I would think that his consistency when he’s “in the zone” makes it difficult to prescribe any medicine, even for those licensed to so do.

I don’t recall blaming Terry for anything and if I did, it wasn’t my intent … just blame it on old age and possibly a negative IQ. I strongly believe that every coach must be adroit at building and restoring confidence if they’re to be successful.

What I was trying to say was that perhaps Terry is being less “proactive” than currently needed … and that it would be good to know more about his approach so that a conclusion could be reached. I have no idea as to the level of his “proactivity” so I’ve reached no conclusion. I strongly oppose those who offer “solutions” to problems without knowing what the problem really is … and though I may sometimes fall into that trap … it’s never by intent.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this

Guys, I do apologize … had no idea it was that long!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

bob, jimmy smith lost you after the lute. do you play the lute? ever try the litungu? rain delay is now over. braves do not like to play in the rain. bad for the grip.

By hk

May 9, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

Bob,

… makes sense (alternative sources of correction), make sure you don’t get ‘blog-pecked’ though :) …

By Eric

May 9, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this

DOB—I’m sure your aware KU has just signed Darrel Arthur (No.9) prospect in 06’ class by Scout.com.

Damn your team…….

By glennbo

May 9, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

i think i know what the braves’ problem is. the braves are soft.

By Ron Roberts

May 9, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

I’m thrilled that McCann’s stepped up, especially given all the noise made in the pre-season about “Salty.” That could’ve ticked some players off, especially given how well he did for the Braves last year. I mean, he’d done everything he was asked to do at the MLB level, and did it well, and all we heard about in spring training was Salty this and Salty that. Salty hadn’t played a major league game and yet McCann could’ve felt threatened.

See, this is where the calm demeanor of Bobby Cox does a player’s morale good. Ya gotta believe, from the get-go, that at some point this spring, he pulled McCann aside and said, “kid, the position is yours… hone your craft and serve us well.”

And he has. Which brings me to this point… with Francoeur and McCann and Kelly Johnson and Kyle Davies and McBride and Boyer and Langerhans all at or flirting with MLB success, a “prospect” like Jarrod Saltalamacchia is expendable if we can dangle him out there to make the current Braves team a World Series contender.

Jarrod’s having a year much like LaRoche, really…good poer numbers, low batting average, a ton of strikeouts. but his “upside” is so strong that somebody has to be interested in him for a strong arm out of a bullpen.

Anyhow, McCann’s worth of all-star consideration, but he’ll probably need the manager’s call to get on the team. Either way, it’s deserving.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, you’d know that was a big liar if I claimed that I could play either one.

I can understand your getting lost … so did I when I reread it. Guess I got carried away responding to Dylan’s post on the previos blog commenting on more than one of my posts. His was a good post so I wanted to address all of his points … didn’t realize how long my response was until I posted it.

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

Eric, you made my night!! Had no idea the Jayhawks got that Arthur dude. He’s an absolute beast. Self kills me with the first-round exits, then bowls me over with incredible recruiting classes.

Someone asked about Torborg _ He’s on vacation in Greece with wife. They had it planned long before the TV gig expanded to include so many games. Back in two weeks, I think.

By forcesaberz

May 9, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

Wow, the Braves bats 2night have been painful to watch.

By hk

May 9, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

… Ron Gant, his conversation heavily flavored with ‘ya know’ … I think he is quite knowledgeable and well spoken, has the potential to become a good commentator … thought it was OK last year because he was new, but if he’s now to become a permanent fixture, would hope someone reading this blog who has access might give him a hint … (probably Joe Morgan is his role model, he does the same thing, groan)

By elbravox

May 9, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

living in S. Cali. has spoiled me for years, but this year i come home expecting to be down on the score! what up with us not kicking butt tonite?

By T Robb

May 9, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy, I think Giles is hurt worse than we know. He’s been swinging like a rusty gate since he hurt that finger and he’s hanging in there…I’d rather have 70% of Giles than Orr, though…

By elbravox

May 9, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

One post, two minutes, three runs…

By Tomahawkin

May 9, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

Atta Boy BJ, You came through Baby!!!

Hope that shuts all da BJ Haters up!

By hk

May 9, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

elbravox, … ‘ask and you shall receive’ …

By MBATL

May 9, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

atta’ boy, Frency, Adam, BJ.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

hk, I’ve been in the trenches, off and on, for most of my life … beats the gutter.

I’m always surprised whenever the stuff I write makes much sense to anyone … that’s scary … but it’s awfully nice when folks say they do. We all need positive feedback occassionally.

Don’t worry about me … I’ve had over 40 years of being pecked by the hens … so a bunch of roosters peckin’ away ain’t gonna scare me none!

However, as a kid on Grandpa’s farm, I learned pretty quick to watch out for their spurs … bigger and more lethal than those of the hens … I found out the hard way, at about age 8, those suckers can really hurt!

By ncscoots

May 9, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

uh oh…Jordan cracks a three-run dinger, so I guess Langerhans will have to wait another two weeks to play. BTW, I’m not that crazy about McCann in the five hole. Don’t get me wrong, I love the guy, but he’s not a number five hitter, that’s all. But I finally agree with all the other folks who have been clamoring to drop Adam in the order. I really thought this would be a breakout year for the guy, but now I think he’s gonna be more Travis Lee than Derek Lee.

By supa

May 9, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

Gotta find a way for Jordan to play more often. What a team player…offering to play first base or outfield to help the team.

By Tomahawkin

May 9, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

I like B-Macc But Lkie LaRoche he scares no one in the 5th spot

LaRoche is another travis lee except he isn’t overpaid and is overrated defensively

By Chuck E.

May 9, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

Holy cow! Frenchie walked! And as far as I can tell, it was unintentional. What happened?

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

a nine fingered infielder is not so bad - many infielders leave a finger outside the glove at all times. unfortunately, giles is not swinging the bat well. pete orr is a “p” player and is to be avoided. brian jordan does indeed have presence tonight. he is playing well and is to be admired. much like the papyrus gonolek with its yellow nape and crown, black wings and red breast. long toes allow it to grip thick papyrus stalks. you are more likely to hear its mellow plaintive calls than to see it. francoeur walks. now, laroche … putting the ball in play. tonight may be the start of something good.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

hk, I like Gant. When he stops such “overuse”, we’ll probably see him move to the next level. If he doesn’t stop, it may not be too long before we don’t see much of him at all.

By Tomahawkin

May 9, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

Bout time LaRoche produces in da clutch, Bout time we’re starting to roll BOYZ!

By HEAD COACH

May 9, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

Holy cow ! Stop the presses , Francoeur took a walk , maybe he actually reads these blogs. Way to go kid. With the bases loaded they had to throw Laroche a fat pitch thanks too Francoeur’s walk.

By journalist expresses worry

May 9, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

where is carolina lady? journalist jimmy smith hopes she is not missing this game. pehaps she has gone to home depot for a scary owl. hope someone is working there tonight. the bats are working better tonight. that lineup bobby has been using for so long may go the way of the lemon yellow crayon that was retired in 1990. now, bob … ron gant is short term until chipper retires and joins bob rathbun in the uh, booth. mccann on second - nobody out. will the “new” francoeur get him to third?

By hk

May 9, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

Bob, … (can’t resist) … from this vantage point, looks like you’re pretty high in the ‘pecking’ order among this group of ‘roosters’ :) … (Braves winning big, Frenchy gets his first walk of the season, makes one a little giddy) ..

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith agrees and wishes to convey to bob the title, journalist.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, I broke my 20 foot pole … do you know here I might get another? Mets-Phillies tied.

Will Frenchy walk again? No!

By ncscoots

May 9, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this

whoops…Jeff goes eight pitches without swinging, and swings right through a down-the-middle strike. Guess all the inactivity threw off his swing! :-)

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

journalist bob, perhaps from the matoke tree you could procure a new pole. from the look of giles’ at-bats tonight he should also acquire a new pole. is there a worse leadoff hitter in either league?

By hk

May 9, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… Phillies beat Mets … Braves only 7 out at the end of the day, and surging …

By ncscoots

May 9, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

wow! journalist jimmy was right…look at the NECK on that dude!

By Bob

May 9, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

hk, jimmy

Sorry about the delay in responding … had to clean my glasses after reading what you guys said! I would indeed be a big lyre if claimed not to be moved!

I feel like I’ve arrived … and I’m making a copy of this Blog and sending it to all my old math teachers who said that God invented the binary number system just for me … cause I wasn’t smart enough to cope with more than 2 digits.

Actually, I will save it to remind both of you of what you once said in a moment of weakness!

Thanks!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

do jimmy smith’s eyes deceive jimmy smith? is that a player named uggla? imagine the possibilities! bobby cox must trade for player uggla. journalist cannot wait. will parantoe excape from this jam he has placed himself in? from the looks of things jimmy smith thinks parantoe has toes pointing in wrong directions much like thomson in spring. toe separators are in order.

By Bob

May 9, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

However, I’ll clean up the errors in the last post before sending it out!

By hk

May 9, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this

jimmy, coincidence, just added Uggla to my fantasy team (the Curmudgeons) last night …

By Rookie Jornalist Bob

May 9, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

HK,

I might be more scared of the Phillies than the Mets … but, if these guys keep doing what we tell them to do, we don’t have to worry about anybody!

By baby seal

May 9, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

Seal may get in big trouble from daddy journalist but wants to be like daddy and do journalism. Seal not like be called baby. Seal is big boy now. Seal does journalism.

Giles bat is scary to seal, but seal feels better around langerhans. wants see langerhans bat first to see what happens. why not try? now jordan… jordan finally showing presence outside of clubhouse. seal likey likey. new pitcher looks scary to seal, could crush seal very easy like. seal wonders if any more arms available from richmond.

seal likes trips to florida. seal notes wes helms, former brave, but has no further comment.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

hk, have you decided on a nickname for uggla? imagine what bobby cox would nickname him! now, journalist bob … someone will need to prepare headlines for him. that is tricky business as dob will tell you. now, giles … is his batting average where jimmy smith thinks it is? that may be why he came out — to keep him from going under .200. why is chipper still playing on this wet surface?

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

once again baby seal has posted to the wonderment of journalist jimmy smith. seal is very smart but hs no digits with which to type. still, seal is being taught tricks on south beach much like commercials you may have seen on tv. seal is a babe magnet. so far, jimmy smith has gotten into no trouble but it has been a close call a few times. if approached, jimmy smith uses the name o’brien. seal goes by chipper.

By hk

May 9, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob, … Philles 3 out as we speak, fine with me, more pressure on Mets …

jimmy, … let’s see, there’s Gilly, Roachy, Frenchy, Uggl ……….. hmmmm ….

By forcesaberz

May 9, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

Is there a curse of the #5 hole? J/k, but McCann didnt have a good game and LaRoach, in McCann’s normal spot. had a McCann like game :-)

By Rookie Jornalist Bob

May 9, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

The game sounded so good … I’m going to listen to it again … once it gets archived!

You guys have me at a disadvantage … I don’t have much of a planeof reference and haven’t seen our newest addition.

When I was at the Trade School, our All American Tackle, Franklin Brooks, only weighed 195 and our biggest pitcher might have been my ROTC squad leader, little Buddy Blemker.

We did have someone on my eighth grade football team named Edgar who fits his description … he was rather inept as a blocker but if he fell on you; you didn’t get up … couldn’t pitch either, had trouble lifting his legs … but he could hit it a long way, whenever he connected; so we stuck him out in right field and switched him to left whenever lefties came to bat.

Based on the name and your description, he might just be a distant relation of the famed Georgia Mascot.

By journalist commentary

May 9, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

commentary - new reliever chad paronto has much to offer bobby cox and the braves. he must pitch well to remain with this club when horacio is recovered. that means there can be no hanging chad- no dangling chad - and most assuredly no dimpled, dangling chad. also, he must develop a neck. a neck is important in baseball. bobby dews is known to hug around the neck. in summary, parontoe has much to do to remain with this team. lowering his era from 9.00 will also be of paramount importance. now, fruit … off to eat the post-game meal.

By Jamie in Richmond

May 9, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this

Gotta love Brian JordanQ Everyone who knocked the guy in Spring Training and everyone (including many in the media) who thought LaGolf was on the verge of becoming the 2nd coming of Will Clark look awfully foolish now. Its a long season, to be sure. But I’ll go out on a limb with these predictions: Jordan’s heart and desire, that’ll never change. And LaRoche’s goofy attitude, overrated glove, and long-a* swing arent liable to change either…

By Rookie Jornalist Bob

May 9, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Apologies to both Chad and Dan … rookie journalist mistake. Saw but “missed” Jimmy’s trade reference and somehow misconnected the two … still not used to heights … never been on a pedestal before.

In my own defense, my mind was on all the comments concerning Paronto and I was preparing a post on him when I saw Jimmy’s bit on Uggla … I know that I come from out in left field sometimes … but that stupidity was from somewhere outside the stadium.

By Carolina Lady

May 9, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, Seal, hk, journalist Bob, Good evening All! It’s been an extremely long and stressful day - and I did miss the game - but just reading all the posts has brought back my smile! Thank you!!

DOB, great article! In my estimation, McCann has been overlooked, but I also wonder if that hasn’t been to his advantage. Salty and Francoeur both have received way too much attention and press, and I don’t feel it’s doing them any favors. All the same, I’m very happy for Mac to get some applause. If Smoltz is so solidly in his corner, you know he has to be a top-notch guy - both professionally and personally.

Jimmy, haven’t had a chance to check out the owl. Didn’t even have time to LOOK at a crow today, much less do anything about them! Tuesdays are tough but hope that’ll change once Mother finally gets out of the nursing home - hopefully on the 17th. (Mother’s Day on the 14th, she comes home the 17th, baby brother’s birthday on the 18th with dinner here by yours truly. Mercy!)

Y’all are great! I love reading all your posts! :-)

By Joe Roman

May 10, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this

It isn’t just that McCann calls a good game, handles the pitchers well, throws out runners, blocks balls in the dirt, hits hard, hits consistently, hits in the clutch and runs things with the authority of a field general. He also looks like he’s having a great time doing it with a matinee idol’s smile. This kid a beyond playing like an all-star. Brian McCann is the golden boy. Let’s hope it lasts.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 10, 2006 12:16 AM | Link to this

On a different note, “Liberty Wants Ted” is an interesting article … sounds likes someone wanting to put a positive “spin” on things for Bud and Braves Fans.

At least one thing seems clear, they think that Ted is always good at a party!

Reason given for the deal “… the deal would be ‘essentially tax free’ for both sides”.

“… we’re really not commenting on it at this point …”

Gregory Maffei, Liberty’s CEO, indicated that if the deal was done, they’d have to be enthusiastic about the long-term prospects for the property … because, under the tax code, Liberty wouldn’t be able to sell the team right away.

At my house, that’s not how we spell enthusiasm.

Maffei is quoted “We would likely be holders of that business for a period”.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 10, 2006 12:21 AM | Link to this

That’s why the Carolia Lady is The Lady!

By Joe Roman

May 10, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this

I jhadn’t heard Turner’s “been there, done that” quote. Give it more ink, AJC. What a jerk! Liberty wants him back, but for what? Is he gonna do Max Patkin routines at seventh inning stretch time? Face it folks, Turner is an old man. He’s either bitter or just pretentious, and his time has passed.

By Carolina Lady

May 10, 2006 12:30 AM | Link to this

Evenin’, Bob! LOVE the ‘jg’ tag! Funny!! And THANK YOU for the compliment! I’m not quite sure to what you are referring but it’s all good coming from you! :-)

Sounds like a good game tonight; sorry I had to miss it, but there was just too much to get done today. It was nearly 8:00 when I got home. Had baked a great tuna alfredo casserole this morning before I left, so it only had to be nuked a few minutes, boiled some corn and that was supper. Animals had to be tended to, etc, and the game was over before I had the chance to stop.

I loved reading DOB’s write-up! “Did the earth stop spinning on its axis?” Funny!!

I’m actually too tired to go to sleep. Another cup of decaf and read some more, then maybe I’ll unwind.

Hope you’ve had a great day and will sleep well tonight!

By Carolina Lady

May 10, 2006 12:49 AM | Link to this

Hi, Joe Roman! I had read Turner’s comment some time back. When he sold out to TimeWarner, I think he believed that he’d be an important player in TW’s scheme of things and when they relegated him to a big office with nothing to do, he realized that he’d sold all the things that reflected the accomplishments in his life - and it left him “all dressed up and no place to go.”

He got into the ‘buffalo’ thing, buying up incredible amounts of land all over the US, etc, but not really doing anything.

I can’t help but feel that he realized the terrible error in judgement he’d made, and though he’d never admit it, is probably very, very sorry for it. Tons of money, yes, but money can make one very lonely when everything else is gone.

Just some thoughts late at night (way past my bedtime)… :-)

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2006 01:04 AM | Link to this

So pleased with today! So many good things happened. Go BRAVES!!!

McCann 5th, LaRoche 7th, Francoeur drew a walk. Renteria keeps getting hits. Chippers average is over .300. Andruw is hitting .280+. A big win and the Mets lost. AND Both the Mets and Phillies blew it late with the Mets blowing it last, which also pleasing.

And lastly, I know DOB is anti-popular music, but this new Red Hot Chili Peppers is unbelievable. I highly recommend it.
It’s an all around good day folks. Go Braves!

By journalist jimmy s**

May 10, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this

You’re all a bunch of morons!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 10, 2006 01:26 AM | Link to this

The Lady,

I started simply to say that “My Lady is The Lady ‘cause she’s a lady”. No particular reference … just my reaction to what you said … and what you are.

Tuna Alfredo casserole is one of my favorites … my wife denies being a good cook but that’s one she really knows how to do … she prefers chicken, but I think I’ve got her converted. We can’t afford fresh tuna very often … but the StarKist Solid White from Sam’s Club is super.

Speaking of corn … I can’t wait until I can find some good field corn for frying … another of my favorites but it’s alot of trouble to make.

We don’t get Turner South here … but, if you don’t mind radio … as I’m sure you’re aware … all the games are on WGST live via MLB.com for 14.95 per season; replays included … for all of the games for all of the teams for the past two seasons, I think … reception is usually great.

I’ll bet a penny or two that more than one on the team have already shown Jeff the “Axis” quote … and he might even get a pie from LeTwan.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 10, 2006 01:35 AM | Link to this

Joe, 10 Paul, Miss Carolina … Some good sutff, late at night.

By HEAD CAOCH

May 10, 2006 01:39 AM | Link to this

McCann , Francoeur , Davies , Langerhans , Betemit , Laroche , McBride , Boyer etc. etc. etc. Its amazing what happens when you dont trade the farm boys for somebody elses overrated veteran. 9 more like this and I’ll actually be impressed , ya’ll Bravos keep doing what your supposed to be doing by beating the crap out of the Marlins and Nationals. Did anybody read the vent ? Martinez , Glavine then the Muts are for the havin. I couldnt agree more. They better scare up some pitching otherwise this might be a three horse race. Francoeur drew a walk , the world is gonna end tomorrow and I’m out $50.00 bucks, #@$%#@&! it !

By Carolina Lady

May 10, 2006 01:43 AM | Link to this

Hi, Bob! You are truly kind, sir. Thank you.

That was a good casserole, even if I do say so myself! And I agree with you! Good old fried corn can be a delight! I’ve always enjoyed cooking - just good old regular food - but it’s satisfying to have something come out juuuust right!

DOB has been a a favorite of mine for a long time, but he really seems to get better with time, wouldn’t you agree? I especially enjoyed his post tonight. Some really good words in there! We’re lucky that he devotes so much time to us here on the blog. The blog really has the feel of a neighborhood ‘back fence’ where you can hang out and yack for a while; our “e-fence”, if you will.

Well, I think I’m finally about ready for some sleep. Can’t tell you when was the last time I was up at this hour! And the sun will be up early - whew! The piper will have his payment for sure! :-)))

Have a good night, my friend!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 10, 2006 02:04 AM | Link to this

My Lady, I totally agree with all that you said, especially about the DOB line “We’re lucky that he devotes so much time to us here on the blog”.

My earlier comments while he was away “Dan Levitan’s good and even Steven Hauk has his moments but most folks agree that there’s only one Adrian Cronauer … where is he?!” was my way of saying the same thing … and just think, he likes Johnny Cash too!

Head Coach, it couldn’t be better said … but, if the world does end tommorrow, the $50 won’t be missed!

By Scott

May 10, 2006 02:06 AM | Link to this

I wore my Brian McCann jersey to opening day. He’s never been overlooked in my house. He’s going to be an allstar for the next decade. Believe IT!!!!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 10, 2006 06:26 AM | Link to this

Looks like I may have the “skinny” on the DOB - Jimmy Smith relationship. After Jimmy conferred the honorary title on me, I went out and celebrated a little bit … maybe it was a bit more than a little.

Anyway, I met some friends and told them how Jimmy and I were close pals … but they weren’t very impressed … said that everybody knew Jimmy and he was the one that gave DOB his big break! I was shocked and asked them to tell me more … and though my interview and reporting skills reflect my jg status, here’s what I learned:

When David first joined the AJC, it was as a gopher, though they swore he never attended Minnesota … his job was to fetch things for Jimmy; a very famous sports writer in Atlanta that he had long worshiped and hoped one day to follow in his footsteps.

Jimmy took an interest in the “kid” and spent lots of time showing him the “basepaths” (journalist’ slang for “ropes”) … he taught him that one of the most important things is to meet and become friends with as many famous people as possible … letting the “kid” know just how many famous people he knew personally; including several Presidents, the Queen of England, and many baseball stars!

David wondered if his idol might be stretching the truth just a little bit … and his knowing smile tipped our ever sharp Mr. Smith.

Later, when was asked to cover the Olympics being held in Rome, Jimmy asked his young friend to join him as a journalist, jg … an offer that was quickly accepted by a very excited DOB.

Upon reaching Rome, Jimmy made a quick call, supposedly to the Vatican … and told the “kid” that he was to have an audience with his old friend the Pope and asked him to go along and see for himself that he really did know the Pope.

Upon arrival, Jimmy was admitted but DOB had to remain outside in the Square. A crowd was gathering in anticipation of an appearance by the Pope and they weren’t to be disappointed … in a few minutes, DOB saw Jimmy and someone he thought might be the Pope appear on the balcony … he asked an distinguished looking man standing nearby for confirmation … “Is that the Pope?” The reply confirmed that Jimmy had not been just bragging “I’m not sure if that’s the pope; Princess Grace and I are just here for the Opening Ceremonies … but the other one is my friend, Jimmy Smith.” David wrote the story … got his first byline … and the rest is history!

By Kudzu

May 10, 2006 07:08 AM | Link to this

Yeah, and you know what, McCann is batting 45 points higher than Estrada and getting paid about $1,700,000 less… Nice!

By Kelly Girl

May 10, 2006 07:43 AM | Link to this

I was digging the game and Stadium Arcadium too. What a sweet day! Hey TennesseePaul are you single?

By Matthew

May 10, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this

DOB:

Excellent blog. I don’t have any trouble believing that McCann could be the second coming of Carlton Fisk. Folks, he’s this good and he is TWENTY FREAKING TWO!

Don’t get me wrong, I really like the way Franceour plays, and those Delta commercials are priceless. From what I’ve read, Jeff seems to be a very classy young man (anyone notice the Joshua 1:9 wrist bands he had on Sunday? That’s one of my favorite Scriptures). Anyway, he is great and has the potential to be an All-Star soon, but McCann is ready to be a perennial All-Star now. I propose that al of us on the AJC blog fill up the All-Star voting, use all of our votes for McCann, then tell our families, friends, etc., even those that don’t watch sports, to vote for B Mac. That’s the only way to overcome the larger market fans, like Mutts fans.

I was impressed by the game last night, and I think Bobby has been reading the blog. He was quoted as saying that he had been considering the lineup shift for 3 weeks. I’m glad you did it Bobby. Now if we could just figure out how to sneak D Willis into your bags when you leave Florida…

Congratulations journalist jg Bob. You deserve it.

Carolina Lady, I’ve only been on this blog for a couple of months or so, but I want to tell you something. My wife and I are expecting our first child in October (don’t know what it is yet). If you are as classy in person as you are on this blog, which I believe you are, then if we have a daughter I pray I can teach her to be as sweet as you are.

Journalist Jimmy Smith, I have no trouble believing the account of how you trained DOB. I can only guess at the journalistic prowess of the baby seal when you finish with it! :)

GO BRAVOS!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith wishes good things for carolina lady and her mama. baby seal was most interested in the tuna casserole and has asked if the scarecrow job might be available to a talented seal who enjoys tuna casserole? now, journalist bob’s story about jimmy smith … while bob is kind it must be reinforced that dob is king of the baseball blog journalists. what other journalist stirs so many baseball passions? when bloggers were concerned about a superstar possibly having web toes, who did the investigative reporting and told us all that player’s toes were nice and normal? yes, dob. now, scribe … where is esteemed scribe? scribe is missed by jimmy smith because scribe is quite good at his craft. scribe reminds jimmy smith of favorite sportswriter dave kindred, once with the atlanta newspaper. good company, yes, scribe? now, paronto toes … somehow jimmy smith thinks paronto will be the best “p” player on this team. fix his toes, remove the hanging chad, and find for him a neck and he will be fine. this is no more than was done for others. now, crows … jimmy smith was surprised to find crows in the cul-de-sac this morning. could be a scouting mission. do crows also read the dob blog? “dob - journalist to the crows”? dob probably thinks crows are to be preferred over all these journalists on blog.

By Joe Roman

May 10, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the back-up, Carolina Lady. Excellent posting, COACH. Scheurholz deserves as much praise for what he DOESN’T do as what he does. I think there is something in the water in NYC. Seriously, it’s in the sociology, but neither the Mets nor the Yankees have a clue when it comes to building from within. If I was a betting man, I’d lay great odds on both teams fading in the stretch this season. They’ll get cold as the weather gets hot. The converse is true with the Braves. Oh, here’s something to contemplate. I live in Baltimore, and the Orioles pitching staff is in the tank already. Mazzone isn’t helping a bit. They are near the bottom in nearly every category and dead last in walks surrendered. Leo is trying to put on a good face, but he must be dying inside. Meanwhile, things are looking pretty good on the mound in McDowell country. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. As long as Bobby and John are the decision makers, the Braves will remain a great organization as other pieces in the puzzle come and go…..and, as the dialogue puts it in chopped up R-rated movies on TV, FORGET TED TURNER.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

matthew, jimmy smith thanks you. yes, baby seal is a quick study. today, we will work on transition - using examples from transition-master, scribe. journalist jimmy smith would be very happy if matthew was teacher to baby seal. matthew has right values. journalist thanks matthew for being a teacher. now, more paronto … journalist thinks paronto will need a nickname and this may be beyond bobby’s ability to handle. earlier, journalist suggested the nickname, “polly” but upon reflection we must not make big man with no neck mad at us. so, what are some good nicknames” “toesy”, perhaps? this could be the one bobby lands on but due to the sensitivity of the discussion of toes on this club, one can never be certain. imagine if team leader at third base decided he wished to be, “toesy”? pocket full of posey.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2006 10:11 AM | Link to this

breaking news marcus giles will use a pink bat on sunday. yes, that is right - a pink bat. some might say marcus giles has been swinging a girly-bat for weeks but journalist jimmy smith has learned that giles intends to use a pink bat in game conditions on sunday. hey, it can’t get much worse for giles. if giles will level the swing of the pink bat and make contact, journalist can see improvement. now, if giles goes 4-4 will we see more of the pink bat?

By Baby Seal Teacher-Designate

May 10, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

Esteemed journalist:

I would be honored to teach baby seal. baby seal probably knows more than half my students :(

Has baby seal enjoyed the abundance of fish the way the Braves have thus far?

As for Paronto, I look forward to seeing what he can do. I’m just glad that in the hanging chad discussion ealier, no one suggested “pregnant chad.” That would have been too much for this father-to-be. What about “Pronto Paronto?” There are two more P’s… But if Bobby insists on putting a Y on the end, how about “Pronty?”

Ugh, I need coffee.

By Penn

May 10, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

DOB, I am happy to see you decided to create a McCann bandwagon. Here is my post from midnight yesterday.

quote: By Penn

May 9, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this

We are all really happy about Renteria and rightfully so. But we should give equal billing to Brian McCann. He not only is a fine player behind the plate, he has a great arm and is cool in the batter’s box. Nothing shabby about a .345 avg.

Thorman is playing well with a BA of .300. And he bats left. And he’s only 24. He and Jordan would make a good platoon and both could play either the OF or at 1B.

(end quote)

Now will you also give a little attention to Thorman? The man is doing well, he’s 24 and hitting around .300 and bats left. He is the prospect to be brought up if they are looking for one. And he can play the outfield. How about giving him a push?

Disclaimer: I don’t personally know either McCann or Thorman but so long as people on here are trying to call all the shots for JS I thought I’d join in.

Cheers.

By DrBert

May 10, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith: Thanks for your updates, and I appreciated the post from the baby seal. Easy to see how DOB learned his trade from you…hope you are instructing the baby seal about the dangers of too much cheese…Regarding your comments about Giles and his bad finger, it brings to mind Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown…Perhaps he should injure another finger and be converted to a pitcher? As for a nickname for Paronto, if the guy threw 100 mph heaters, I’d opt for pronto Paronto…alas, that is not the case…but if he does somehow become the closer pushing Reitsma back to the set-up role…we could call Reitsma “The Lone Ranger” so that in the 8th and 9th we could bring in “The Lone Ranger” and Paronto to save the day… Sorry folks, it’s been a long morning and lately I’ve been watching to much Mr. Peabody and Sherman with my daughter…

By Matthew

May 10, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this

Dr Bert:

There’s a story on the mlb.com Braves page about Paronto, and it says that he has the ability to throw upwards of 96 and has done it in his career, but decided to cut it down to around 92-94 to improve his control. But I bet if he was stoked in the closer’s role and needed the 96, “Pronto” would come out in a hurry.

By journalist does investigative reporting

May 10, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

drbert and matthew may be onto something with nicknames for big man, paronto. however, journalist jimmy smith has done some investigative reporting to learn if paronto may already have a nickname. according to baseball almanac his nickname is, “none”. why would he be called, “none”? let us hope that does not describe his out-pitch. now, fingers … protracted slump by marcus giles could be due to finger injury as alluded … but could be due to undisclosed toe injury! what if leadoff man has a bad toe that makes him swing the bat like he is clubbing a seal? baby seal is beginning to dislike marcus giles. this is disheartening because giles is one of jimmy smith’s favorite braves. now, interviews … why is marcus giles, you know, never, uh, interviewed? is it a possibility that he may be a bit like his friend at third base but without the catchy name? perhaps radio personality dob will reveal.

By DrBert

May 10, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this

Matthew, Thanks for the information. I’d like to see the Lone Ranger and Pronto as an effective team. Jimmy, Perhaps Marcus Giles is never interviewed because he has seldom had a good performance this spring. I’m not sure, but I bet he was interviewed after his four hit performance against the Rockies…speaking of his friend at third base, is there any truth to the rumor that he was the model for the twix commercial wherein the umpire misses a play because he is flirting with women in the stands? Also, reassure baby seal that an uppercut swing is not dangereous, should be more worried about those who chop down on the ball…much more like clubbing…

By bigboi

May 10, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Where are all the Brian Jordan bashers now? He has one of the highest ave. on the team and is a great team leader. I say bat ER first and and put Jordan in the two hole. He knows how to move runners over.

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this

Kelly Girl: Very flattering… but I am spoken for. That album just kept getting better and better. I don’t know how they do it. Most bands get more bland the older they get, but the Chili Peppers keep one-upping themselves.

This is two games in a row of 10+ runs. That was the 4th one on the year. It was the 15th time we’ve scored 5 or more in a game. Not too shabby. I’d like to see the same line up tonight. Giles is bound to start hitting sooner or later. When he gets on, we’re going to score like made. Davies needs to hold his own today and give us a chance to win it. For some reason I have more confidence in Davies than I do in Hudson.

By Voice of Reason

May 10, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

This lineup is constructed much like the failed USA WBC team. Alot of boppers, (real or wannabe,) with few role players. Gilly’s swing has become long, too long for someone trying to simply get on base. LaWhif’s swing has been long and loopy with alot of holes - it ain’t gettin’ any better. Last night’s anomaly notwithstanding, his AB’s are mostly wasted. Baseball is slowly sliding into the SportsCenter highlight reel abyss, where too few players remain who truly understand the fundamental nuances of the game. That being said, I still believe that the Braves are only 3 very obvious elements away from winning #15.

1.) Leadoff. Hey, I like Gilly as much as the next guy, but he ain’t cuttin’ it at leadoff.

2.) 1B. LaWhif has had time to develop into the player he’s not gonna be. It’s time to pull the plug and move on.

3.) Closer. Reitsma strikes fear only in the hearts of Braves fans. I still think he can be an effective set-up guy, but the only doors he’s slammin’ are the shower doors.

JS has the know how and about $6-8M to play with. The biggest questions are: Can he make any significant moves with the team’s sale reportedly so near, and who goes? You gotta give quality to get quality. If nothing else, this has been and will be an interesting year…

By Voice of Reason

May 10, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

BTW - it’s a sad state of affairs when we have to dream about a 30 year old journeyman who hasn’t seen the bigs for 2 years displacing the current closer. Sad indeed…

By baby seal

May 10, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this

baby seal now has new teacher? jimmy smith is best teacher, but seal will see if matthew helps. maybe matthew helps marcus giles too. marcus giles not have good transitions either.

new pitcher intimidates baby seal. seal impressed with investigative work. maybe nickname “none” is abbreviated form of “NO-NEck?”

seal like carolina lady. seal wishes baby braves still in greenville not mississippi. carolina better for seal.

seal likes typey typey but it takes long time without digits.

By DrBert

May 10, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

VOR Sad but true. For some reasons the Braves never seem to develop a dominant closer in their farm system, and when they have picked one up from another team, they have never performed well. It just doesn’t seem to be a priority in the current system. The money always seemed to go to starting pitching, not relief pitching, or heaven forbid a truly dominant closer.

By David O'Brien

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

TennPaul _ I just bought the Peppers’ new CD yesterday, here in Ft Laud (only $11.99 at Gargantuan Blue-And-Yellow Chain-Store Electronics Buy).

It’s very good. I’ve loved their past three CDs, including this one. (Californication and By The Way being the other two). They’ve totally changed, but in a good way. They were great early in their career, but that sound’s a bit dated now. They’ve aged well, and their new vibe is so good.

But if you really want to hear some stuff that’ll put a lump in your throat and make you think, and perhaps get your blood boiling, I’d highly recommend Neil Young’s just-released “Living With the War” CD. It’s not good _ it’s incredible.

I don’t want to get off on a political discussion that’ll offend half (or at least 32 percent) of the audience. I’ll just say, any Neil fans, any of those familiar with his leanings, should absolutely run, don’t walk, to your nearest independent _ or Large Corporate Able-To-Sell-‘Em-Dirt-Cheap store; I won’t tell _ and buy it.

If you don’t like it, I don’t like you (just kidding _ wink)

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2006 12:25 PM | Link to this

Actually, Neil’s CD is “Living With War,” not “Living With The War.” We like accuracy here.

This first song on the Peppers CD, “Dani California,” sounds like five or six others they’ve done, but that’s good, because it’s a great song.

By Carolina Lady

May 10, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

Hello to ALL! Well, the sun sure got up without this lady this morning! Littlejohn’s soft little paw insistently tapping my check finally brought me back to life. “Where’s breakfast, Mom?!”

Matthew Sir, you absolutely brought tears to my eyes this morning! That is the highest compliment that any person could ever be given and I’ll never forget it! Thank you so kindly! Please keep us all updated on your precious baby!

Jimmy Smith Thank you for your good wishes! Mom is 82, has had 4 strokes, but is tougher than a hickory knot and has worked so hard to overcome as many of the effects of the strokes as can be overcome. These falls in recent years are the biggest enemy now. She has been so fortunate and so blessed to be back in the (relatively) good condition that she is now in.

She LOVES the Atlanta Braves!! She doesn’t always get the terminology right (“he hit it HARD…and he made it all the way around the…the places…and they got another point!!” was her delighted description of a home run recently) but she knows the game.

What a really great group of people on this blog! I’m so happy to be “e-neighbors” with you! Who is my favorite? Baby Seal wins hand down! :-))) (I’m a sucker for animals, anyway!) Oh! Sorry!! I just remember that he doesn’t like the “Baby” part anymore. Jimmy, you’re going to have to come up with a real NAME for him!

I’m moving like molasses today - up waaaay too late last night - and the old grey mule just ain’t what she used to be! :-)))

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this

dob music blog was very nice. but, baseball? seal is very anxious to read of baseball. perhaps dob will try again?

By not-quite-baby seal

May 10, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

seal likes music. seal favorite song is “crazy.”

“no we’re never gonna survive, unless we get a little crazy.”

true for braves? do braves need to get crazy to survive? crazy trade? crazy neckless “none?” crazy sale? crazy journalism? seal’s head spinning. seal claps as only seal can for carolina lady picking seal favorite.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

how baby seal is making posts to this blog, jimmy smith does not know. journalist jimmy smith is not making these posts for baby seal. in addition to having no digits and no opposable thumb, baby seal does not have internet connectivity on his macintosh computer. mostly, he just scrolls with mouse and uses outstanding graphics program. jimmy smith will keep a close eye on baby seal this afternoon and see if something can be observed. now, paronto … jimmy smith feels big man with no neck has the potential to be a fan favorite. matthew’s observation that paronto can throw 96 mph indicates he may be able to reach back and throw the out pitch that reitsma apparently lacks. of course, 96 mph to the screen will not be an effective pitch. does big man have control issues? does hanging chad refer to big man’s curveball? let us hope not. now, dob … must he tease us with music blogs at a time like this? much must be learned about new “p” player, paronto - also nicknamed, none.

By Eric

May 10, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

No offense to you DOB, but Young has always been Pro-Bush, that’s why I and many believe he is just cynically cashing in on the widespread condemnation of the American President. Regardless if it’s true or not. (I for one support the war.)

By Carolina Lady

May 10, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

Now, Jimmy. You know that a seal would have a very useful NOSE with which he could type. What I find so amazing is his ability to spell!

to Baby Seal: when I read that you like the song “Crazy” my eyes lit up! Oh, great! Patsy Cline!! but then I didn’t recognize the lyrics……

Matthew, can you teach Baby Seal music, as well? Some nice classics, some good country, the wonderful old standards, maybe?? Jimmy is truly wonderful, talented, and admired by all, but I think you could be most helpful!

(And here I sit as if I don’t have anything to do!!) :-)))

And I’m enjoying every minute of it!

By MGL

May 10, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith - I seem to remember that baby seal thought Ray King was his mother. Be careful, if he thinks that new pitcher Paronto is his father, he might be an elephant seal.

By Ceepster

May 10, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

Good game last night although I had to follow it on the Gameday tracker. Looks like batting lower in the order got Adam going, at least for one game! Thomson must have pitched really well, just sorry I couldn’t see it. How did Paronto look? I know he gave up a run but did he have good stuff? I did get to see the Mets/Phillies on MLB Extra Innings. Not a Phillies fan at all but hate the Mets so that was a good game too. DOB, I enjoyed the McCann post and the report on last night’s game. Thanks.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

Patsy Cline … always great to see a Patsy Cline mention. Definitely one of the all-time voices in music, period, not just country music.

Eric, regarding Neil _ if you haven’t read or seen any interviews with him in past few years, I’d suggest you google a couple. There is absolutely, positively NO QUESTIONING his political beliefs these days, and not even the most cynical among us could listen or read what the man is saying and wonder if there’s some ulterior motive. I mean, no way. I’d give you some lyrics from this album, but again, I’m not hear to stir up political discourse.

Just don’t try to tell me Neil’s saying one thing over and over and over, clearly and resoundingly, while feeling entirely different. The man lost his dad recently and also stared at his own mortality with an illness that required brain surgery, and you’re trying to say he’s pushing aside his long record of integrity in order to cash in on the current political situation. Unbelievable, frankly. And fortunately, you’re the only one who’s said it.

Show me one credible, or even half-credible, critic or pundi or whoever _ just one _ who has said that in a nationally recognized forum. Otherwise, I’m assuming it’s coming from you and only you.

Peace

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this

Meant to write “pundit” and not pundi, obviously. Eric had me fired up.

Still shaking my head over your comment, my man. just e-mailed a friend who’s a huge Neil fan, and she was flabbergasted at your comment, too.

Neil Young, cashing in. Yeah, that’s just like him, right? His whole career in music, just cashing in. Wow….

Just ready the lyrics to the CD, if you care. And if you come away still believing that stuff about him just cashing in, let me know.

By Matthew

May 10, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

Blog is great today-laughing like crazy!

Carolina Lady, I’m glad to know I brightened your day. I’ll be glad to keep you posted throughout the summer. Jennifer is due October 5th.

I’m a history teacher by trade, but a pastor at heart and on the weekends. I’d love to teach the baby seal music, but I focus on Christian music and the classics. So folks like Todd Agnew and Third Day from the Christian genre, and maybe some George Strait and Randy Travis. I think baby seal may like Todd Agnew-he’s worshipful but rocks at the same time. His newest CD is called “Reflection of Something.”

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

where is journalist bob? we must have some baseball news! dob is out of control today with his love of music. perhaps we can lure dob into transition. does paronto have musical talent? does he favor the lute, like bob, or perhaps another instrument? chad paronto would be a good name for a lounge singer, son’t you agree? “and now ladies and gentlemen the melodic strains of chad paronto . . ” of course, when big man with no neck comes out in leisure suit havoc can be expected. best that “none” paronto remain a baseball player. now, patsy cline … what position did he play?

By "baby" seal

May 10, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

carolina lady, was seal “crazy for feeling so blue” about braves last week? seal not as blue this week. but still wonder if braves need to “get a little crazy” if “ever gonna survive.” you not know who did newer “crazy?” seal suggests looking it up. answer will make happy.

By Eric

May 10, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

I respect your opinnion DOB. 100%. I just feel that its kinda odd that he supported the war, he said he supported the war, he supported the fight on terrorism, and most of all he supported Bush. Now I am just curious, and I’m not being a smart a*, but what made him change his mind so suddenly? And to label one of his songs “lets impeach the president” I am just wondering, in all honesty, what made him change his political stance. Was it the blatant liberal-bias the media protrudes in this day in age? I mean what? If he honestly woke up one night and really came to realize what he really believes, then fine. I’m only 19, so I dont really have a huge background knowledge of him, but to know that for his whole life he was a proud conservative and all of a sudden “wants to impeach Bush” I’m just curious as to what has made him change his mind. Thats all

By Carolina Lady

May 10, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this

Matthew!! Tell Jennifer she MUST wait until Oct 7! That’s my birthday!

Randy Travis’ inspirational album is wonderful! Precious Memories and Heart of Worship will really touch you. Any of Sandi Patti’s songs will bring tears to your eyes and raise your hands. Incredibly powerful!!

Baby Seal You’re right! How appropriate! But then I should have expected such perfection from Jimmy Smith’s protege! Seems my own education is lacking, huh? :-)))

I’m off to run 2 errand’s that were missed in yesterday’s marathon. back later!

By Frank Tepedino

May 10, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

No-Neck nickname used previously by Walt Williams, c. 1960s-70s. How about Big Head?

By Eric

May 10, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

Not that it matters, im at youtube.com and watching an interview of Young, and the reporters just asked if it was a publicity stunt to sell CD’s. CNN is pretty credible I suppose.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7utryGZ25dg&eurl=

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this

Eric, I’ll just leave it at this: If indeed he did support the war initially _ and I’m not aware of what he stance was at the time _ he would hardly be alone in changing his mind in light of, uh, things that have come to light since the first bombs were dropped.

Again, I’ll leave it at that. And I’d suggest, just to erase any remaining doubts in your mind, you go to http://www.neilyoung.com/lww/lww.html

It’s made utterly clear where he’s coming from, and how he got there.

Also, I guess you’re too young to remember Neil singing “Keep on rockin’ in the free world” (hardly a pro-war or pro-George Sr. song) or “… four dead in O-hi-o,” among many, many others both solo and with his friends Crosby, Stills and Nash.

To call him a proud conservative _ dude, you’ve got to do some research. I think some locals down South might disagree with you, strongly, in portraying Neil Young that way.

Or do also not remember a little ditty “Southern Man?” Again, not exactly a archetypal conservative.

Sorry, young bro, but you’re just wrong. Completely.

Now I’d suggest, like plenty of others reading this, that we get back to baseball. Just couldn’t let your misinformed comments pass.

Nothing wrong with having differing opinions. But just don’t try to make someone else out to be of like mind to yourself, if they’re not. And he’s not of like mind with you. Not at all.

By MGL

May 10, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

Anyone want to get back to baseball? Marlins changed the rotation, Willis against Hudson tomorrow.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

And what did Neil say to the reporters, Eric?

Dude, you’re reaching, man.

By Eric

May 10, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

I repect your comments DOB, and I will take a look at that link. Lets just leave it at that and get back to baseball like you said.

Gotta ask one non-related baseball question…….

Did you see KU got Darrel Arthur? Dang They may have leap-frogged UNC for the No.2 spot next yr. Right up there with UF.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

By the way, Eric, what’a good conservative like you doing watching CNN? Just tune to Fox, they’ll set you straight on Neilsy.

By Chop Chop

May 10, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

Neil’s always been selling out through song.

“Cinnamon Girl” - He wrote that because he wanted free cinnamon rolls.

“Heart of Gold” - He wanted to get a discount on a 24-karat gold heart-shaped pendant for some chick he wanted to get with.

“Old Man” - He wrote that one for a Depends commercial, presumably because he wanted some for free.

“Southern Man” - He wrote that one for a TV show pilot about a happy-go-lucky Southern plantation owner. It turns out that Neil used to be a really big fan of Colonel Sanders.

“Keep On Rockin’ In The Free World” - He was trying to help people appreciate his life, which has been centered on receiving as much stuff for free as possible. Thus, “The Free World” is Young’s own milieu which he opens up for all the world to see.

(That last sentence sounds like a snooty liner note, doesn’t it?)

So, as we can see, Neil Young is used to selling out. And yes, for anyone who can’t read between the lines, I’m kidding.

By Eric

May 10, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

I hate CNN. Communist News Network

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

Nice Chop Chop… You forgot the most obviouse one: A Man Needs A Maid the little jingle he wrote for Molly Maids Cleaning Services.

By Alan

May 10, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Really enjoy your blogs - you put more into them than any other ajc.com beat guy.

However, I have to say that driving home from a conference this weekend I caught a special on Neil Young’s new album. They did mention that he supported the Bush administration in the days after Sept. 11. Dunno when he changed his mind - probably about the same time many of us did, after the administration’s subsequent -er- mishandling of MOST affairs, to put it nicely. Don’t have time to look up actual quotes but I’d be surprised if they weren’t out there. I think that’s what Eric’s talking about.

Oh, and I have to disagree with you about how good the new album is. From what they played, there’s NO comparison to “Ohio” or “Rockin in the Free World”. It’s nice that someone’s playing protest music, but it certainly isn’t good music.

And in reference to “Southern Man”, I’ll defer to the opinion of Lynyrd Skynyrd, who famously stated “What the hell does he know? He’s from Canada.”.

Again, thanks for the time you put into these blogs.

By Alan

May 10, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Forgot to mention the special was on NPR - there might be an archived copy at their website.

By Alan

May 10, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Here’s a link to an online story describing Neil Young’s post 9-11 song “Let’s Roll”, as well as his initial support for the controversial Patriot Act.

http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/archives/2006/04/neilyoung-impeachthe_president/

By Eric

May 10, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

I agree with Alan, DOB does a great job on informing us, and doing these daily blogs.

Didn’t mean to stir up this much debate though. Sorry if I offended anyone. I was more or less putting out what I think he could possibly be doing.

And yes, Alan, that’s what I was talking about.

Now I’m not gonna hold a grudge against DOB for him giving me his oppinion. He is a good writer/reporter and I respect his views and oppinions. Thats whats great about this country. You wont get massacred if you have a difering view on a certain subject.

Thanks again DOB for all you do.

By newjournalistontheblock

May 10, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

Neil may be from Canada, but he’s lived and paid taxes in the U.S. for 40 years. I haven’t heard the whole album yet, but I respect a man who speaks from the heart. And Neil has always done that. He knows this cd will cost him fans, but he doesn’t waiver. It’s so not about money. By the way, I love that this blog combines some of the most important things in life: baseball, music and politics.

By T Robb

May 10, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

Very nice, Chop Chop. Good work.

By hk

May 10, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob, (you moved beyond the ‘jg’ status with your in-depth piece on jimmy last night) ..

… thinking about what Maffei (Liberty’s CEO) said ….

“We would likely be holders of that business for a period,” …

… maybe it’s my euphoria from all that’s been going on lately, but I think that statement is a positive, at least for awhile .. if Liberty intends to keep the ‘property’ for, say 2-3 years, for it to retain its value during that time, they must keep Bobby and John … if they don’t, attendance and TV viewership will drop, ‘the worse it gets, the worse it gets’, and that $400 million value number could easily drop to $350m … everybody is focussed on which way Liberty is going to jump at the instant the purchase is complete … if I’m in Liberty’s shoes, I increase the spending $5-10 million per year for a couple of years, just to avoid the $50 million I could lose upon sale down the road … my guess is that $400m number is currently depressed somewhat because of all the uncertainties … so, if Liberty does up the spending right away, I think there will be a ‘the better it gets, the better it gets’ effect, and that $400m number goes to $420 - 430m …

…. and for me as a fan, 2-3 years is an eternity, who knows what will happen after that …

By Jean

May 10, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

Yes, he’s terrific and he looks a lot older this season, which is neither here nor there. But he seems so calm and sure of him-self. It’s nice to have such a young man who displays such confidence - and who backs it up with his performance. I’m really impressed and looking forward to the rest of the season.

By Matthew

May 10, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady:

Will pass along your instructions to Jennifer, though there’s probably not much we can do to delay it. We’re just excited to be part of the process.

I have told her that if the Braves are in the World Series when she delivers, I’ll be there to support her and hold her hand, but I’ll have a TV on in the delivery room…she didn’t think it was funny :)

Let’s go Braves tonight-keep the streak alive and growing!

By Mark

May 12, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

i like this. frenchy has been getting so much hype, while mccann has been the under the radar consistent guy. he deserves to be an all star, with his sweet swing and patience. he needs to talk to the golden boy and tell him patience IS a virtue

By Jena

May 14, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

I love watching Briann McCann play as much or even more than Jeff. The fact that Briann kind of does get overlooked is hard for me to understand. I mean, he has had a better seaeson than Jeff in most areas, and he is an awesome catcher…and I nver get tired of watching him play….he was good last year, real good at the begginning of the year, and now…..he (in my opinion) is the best catcher in the NAtional League Division at least, i mean afterall I don’t watch American League games….

Jena