Braves

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

DOB, what about Francoeur. Are the Braves still as concerned about him as they were a few weeks ago? As for the article, I totally agree. I think Sosa would actually do quite well in the closer role. Lord knows, it couldn’t get any worse. In my heart I believe this team can win the East. But, I’m not sure if they believe they can win the East. Has there been any player only meetings or clubhose blowups. Where is the passion in this team. Take away McCann and Francoeur and everyone else acts like they are at an insurance seminar.

By Daniel

May 11, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

 Thank you so much for writing this! I have no idea what Bobby Cox is thinking, continuing to bring in Reitsma in the ninth inning. Is Reitsma blackmailing Cox or something? Does he have dirty pictures on him? Is that it? 

 I've never been confident with this guy, from the day he came over from Cincinatti (I think) up until now. Speaking of that trade, didn't we get Juan Cruz out of that to? Maybe my memory's off, but I thought he did a heck of lot better than Reits, and Cox NEVER used him and then we trade him! Just try somebody, anybody! They can't be any worse.

By Phillip

May 11, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

If they could find a big bat to help put up some runs then the closer situation wouldn’t be as dire. Maybe we’d go into the ninth with a 2 or 3 run lead instead of 1 run. I think it might take some pressure off whomever our closer is knowing that he has some wiggle room. I’d still like to see a new guy who is capable of hitting over .300, instead of the .250-.280 world this team lives in. The goal is to win the WS, not the NL East, and this inconsistent offense cannot do it.

By Jason

May 11, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

Reitsma just needs a big beefy burrito and he’ll be good to go.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

The problem is simply the leadoff position. People who say the leadoff position is not that important are just wrong. History and champions say differently. Heck, even look at the Yankees. They have not won a WS since they had a legitamte leadoff hitter in Knoblach (not sure about the spelling). To be successful you need quality starting pitching, a great closer, and a solid leadoff hitter. The White Sox would have never been as good as they were without Podsednik. The leadoff position is key. Look at all of your division leaders right now and all of them have good leadoff hitters and a solid closer. The only exception is the Texas Rangers and some extent the Red Sox. But, once Crisp comes back the Red Sox will join that club as well. Giles bats 4 or 5 times a game. You can’t tell me that someone who gets that many at-bats and cannot get on base does not affect the team greatly.

By Gordon

May 11, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Well I think they should try Betemit at third, Chipper at first,and Laroach on the bench. that would put Betemit’s bat in there more and maybe keep Chipper halthy longer. Also I would try to sign Roger Clemons and maybe, I know it’s blasphemy, trade Andrew for some one who is more consistant at the plate, not a sucker for the outside pitch and or a closer.

By John

May 11, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB thanks for blogging daily. Much appreciated. All I wanna say is that I’m glad John T. wasn’t traded when everybody though he would be. I knew we needed him and so far he’s done great. We would have 2/5 of a rotation like the Mets if it wasn’t for him!!! Rememebr that. And I agree, Reitsma must go (away from the closer’s role at least). Just watching his delivery is a pain. How can anyone pitch like that. It’s so… ugh! Gilly will bounce back, so will Andruw, I don’t worry about the offense, I worry about the pitching. (No I’m not going to cry for Leo, but what is this inconsistency? jThere must be a reason for it. The guys are great, even their ERAs, for the most part, are pretty good. But Jesus please do something about it.) One more thing: What about Jurries? What about “Joey “The Slam” Devine? Any chance we will see them sooner than later?

Thanks sir. And good night (it’s pretty late over here in Germany)!

By John

May 11, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB thanks for blogging daily. Much appreciated. All I wanna say is that I’m glad John T. wasn’t traded when everybody though he would be. I knew we needed him and so far he’s done great. We would have 2/5 of a rotation like the Mets if it wasn’t for him!!! Rememebr that. And I agree, Reitsma must go (away from the closer’s role at least). Just watching his delivery is a pain. How can anyone pitch like that. It’s so… ugh! Gilly will bounce back, so will Andruw, I don’t worry about the offense, I worry about the pitching. (No I’m not going to cry for Leo, but what is this inconsistency? jThere must be a reason for it. The guys are great, even their ERAs, for the most part, are pretty good. But Jesus please do something about it blowing Smoltzie’s leads.) One more thing: What about Jurries? What about “Joey “The Slam” Devine? Any chance we will see them sooner than later?

Thanks sir. And good night (it’s pretty late over here in Germany)!

By John

May 11, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

And I did NOT post this twice on purpose! Talk to you web programmer, tell him to disable the button when I click it! Ugh!

By Rutuger

May 11, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

Funny, I’ve been chastising the Grim Reitsma on here forever and am usually met with staunch criticism and excuses from his supporters…

So… where are you guys now?

By Tomahawkin

May 11, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

Rutuger, Carroll and Myself wanted Reeksma to recieve his pink slip after he blew game 5 of the 2004 NLDS, That dude is garbage

I saw on the Bottom line that Jeff Fassero was designated 4 assignment, Why D He!! has this not happed to Reeksma, It should’ve happened last year, I guess his overpaid a-s-s makes too money…for such action to be taken…

Where the He!! is The Bong?

By Jim

May 11, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

Realistically, the Braves are NOT a closer away from winning the East. On paper, both the Mets and Phillies are still better. (If Cole Hamels solidifies the Philly rotation), I think the Phils are better than the Mets. I really like (as a Brave fan, hate) the trade they made for Rowands. Their lineup has a nice mixture of speed, power, and patience, and Gordon may have been the best closer candidate on the market last winter.

The Braves’ need for a closer is obvious, but it may be prudent to look on this as a rebuilding year, and not compromise the future. Last March, Salty was the second coming of Johnny Bench, or if moved to 1B, the next Jim Thome, now there is sentiment to trade him away for a quick fix closer or other arm. We are deep in young prospects at catcher with McCann ahead of him and M. Ramirez behind him, but there are no 1B prospects in the pipeline (to me Thorman is a 4-A talent, somewhere between a utility man in the majors and a Triple A regular — his power RBI totals do not indicate that he’ll be an impact major leaguer).

To trade Salty for a young pitcher like D. Willis makes sense ONLY if the team will make a long term commitment to the player. Unfortunately, that does not seem to be the Braves’ mode of operation over the past few years.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

John, how do you get it to post twice? I sometimes try one liners for effect but it never works for me! I think it’s eric that can do it whenever he wants as well.

By Dave Knockahomer

May 11, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Great article, DOB! You said all that needed to be said re: the ?closer? situation. Reitsma=Kolb. as for Giles? He is not a lead off guy and why ruin him trying to make him something he isn’t. Why not give Langerhans a try. Sure couldn’t hurt and please, don’t mean with Renteria! He and McCann are the only two CONSISTENT hitters we have. Am really sorry Renteria didn’t get a hit last night to make it 24 games in a row, but the whole team seemed to be jinxed. Keep McCann in 5th. Davies, as you said, will make it! I remember the struggles Glavine and Smoltz had when they first came up. He’ll be okay. and for now, I have confidence only in he and Smoltz. Thomson is so inconsistent or so it seems and Hudson? another inconsistent. Be interesting to how Hudson does against Willis whose horrid season so far is, in my opinion, due to the team he pitches for! Man, I would love him as a Brave! He would reward us with some great pitching. Last night made me barf! How pitiful!
Guess every team has a crapper and we sure had one last night, but we still haved tonight! GO BRAVES!!!!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

Tony, I just pulled one of my frequent goofs and posted one for you on the previous blog after everyone had switched.

By TennesseePaul

May 11, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Great Article DOB! Something must change. And Change soon. Giving up the cycle to a minor league team is not the stuff of a closer. Especially after being the closer for at least a month in the season and at least a month last year. Reitsma is not cutting. He does not fit the bill. And I do not believe anyone needs to be anymore patient with it, first month maybe, but now it’s too late. He isn’t the guy. Find a new one.

A nice bat to hit at first base would be good. However, there was all this talk that Salty could come up mid season if he develops well. Hows that looking DOB? Also, why not Scott Thorman? He seems to be hitting the ball well down in the minors… I’d be happy if Thorman and Reitsma were in a trade for super closer and a player to be named. Something has to be done.

I think the Braves have had their concerns on Francoeur relieved. He’s been hitting very well after such a slow start. I’d like to see more walks out of him, but I guess those will come in time.
I think this line up could have some punch. It’s the pitchers that are sucking the punch out of them.

There has to be a closer out there somewhere. A committee should be formed until we get something.

By Tomahawkin

May 11, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

DIZAM!, There is no way in he!! that we are gonna get Roger Clemens on the D-Train, so you guys need to kill that nonsense…Shyt!

No is no way we can afford neither…

Try a more realistic deal, like bringing back Ivan Cruz, Burger King, or Alfonseca, or better yet CoCo Cordero…

But we need to get this leadoff stuff straightened out before we start playing the BIG BOYS (Yanks, Cards, and Sox) Otherwise we are gonna get our a-s-ses handed to us….

By John

May 11, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

Well when I click on “Post” the label changes to “Please wait”. If you hit the browser’s Stop button (wait a few milliseconds, as hard as it sounds!) it cancels the current client request. If you click the “Please wait” button now, it will post twice. (And yes, I do this for a living)

By The Truth

May 11, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this

Pitchers acquired by the Braves via in-season trades the last 12 years

2005: Kyle Farnsworth (July 31), Todd Hollandsworth (Aug 31)

2004: Tom Martin (July 31)

2003: Kent Mercker (Aug 12)

2002: NONE

2001: Steve Karsay & Steve Reed (June 22 for John Rocker), Rudy Seanez (Aug 31)

2000: Andy Ashby (July 12 for Bruce Chen)

1999: Terry Mulholland (July 31)

1998: Russ Springer (June 23 for Alan Embree)

1997: NONE

1996: Denny Neagle (Aug 28 for Jason Schmidt, YEAH, that worked out real well)

1995: Alejandro Pena (Aug 31)

1994: NONE

WHERE the world is the precedent for anyone thinking we are getting help for this bullpen during the season? I am sick and tired of hearing how great Schuerholz is in-season. He’s excellent in the off-season, that’s a given. But he’s done nothing to improve this bullpen over the last 4 years and it shows every day.

By Dr. Jay

May 11, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

You nailed it, DOB, and in the process, coined a chilling new phrase: Kolbian Levels. For me, that now becomes the bullpen equivalent of the Mendoza Line.

This year has been a nightmare, and I guess we’re due, but having the team melt down AND lose the hometown broadcast team to corporate musical chairs…this just sux.

By Jim

May 11, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

The need for a closer is obvious. The candidate is not. What “super closer” is expendable and what will it cost to get him?

Who are the dependable closers right now— Rivera, Papelbom, Wagner?, Gordon, Turnbow, Jenks, Street?, Lidge?

All of them play for contenders and will require a lot of talent in return.

Hoffman? Do we want to trade a top prospect for a guy who has seen his better days?

We all see the need for “Regime Change” in the closer’s role, but unless we can identify the “TO” as well as the “FROM”, we will be no more successful than that other use of this euphemism.

By h_charles

May 11, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

Great post!!! Coouldn’t agree more. Reitsma is a set-up guy, pure and simple. Most closers need to “closers”. Big fastballs. Guys that strike out the side. Guys that can beat you without having to throw strikes. Reitsma isn’t that guy. As you indicate, closer is CRUCIAL on this squad due to their makeup. We must have a guy who strikes fear in opponents, and who feel 100% confident in. Championship teams make the game 8 innings long. Reitsma makes them 10. As for Giles, as much as Reitsma isn’t a closer, Giles isn’t a leadoff guy. He could survive at #2, but really is an ideal #6. He isn’t fast enough or consistent enough to hit #1. Sure, he will get hot. But what he won’t do is set the table like Furcal could. He strikes no fear on the basepaths. He can’t beat out infield singles. Want to know what a leadoff hitter needs to be able to do — look back at the Marlin’s 1st run too nights ago. Single, steal, 3rd on throw, score on an out.

By Jason

May 11, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

Let’s trade for Dan Kolb again, he’s doing quite well this year. Plus it looks like he eats a lot of Beef Burritos.

By Da Braves

May 11, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

While’s it’s easy to slam the Braves for not getting a closer during the off-season it wasn’t entirely their fault. They were right to not over pay for closers like Todd Jones or Trevor Hoffman. Also, how much minor league talent are we willing to give up to get a top notch closer? Last year we gave up our top pitching prospect, Jose Capellan, for someone who looked great on paper, but couldn’t close the door against a little league team.

Last I checked Wagner and Lidge are struggling to get the job done and they are supposed to be two of the best in the business. It’s a tough job, and while I agree Reeksma has not done well, there aren’t a whole lot of options open to the Braves right now. If the Braves were to make a trade for a closer who would they get, or perhaps more importantly who would they have to give up to get him?

Should they trade away their top prospects for a guy like Eddie Guardado? If you think so check out his ERA and you might change your mind. What about Gonzales from the Pirates, he is young and is talented, but how will he do with such high expectations? He could be another Dan Kolb, you’re not going to be in many high pressure situations playing for Pittsburgh, so the guy could choke.

By reitsmamust go

May 11, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

Hey Thetruth

when did Todd HOLLANDSWORTH BECOME A PITCHER

By Jon

May 11, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

Time to panic….YESSS!!!! I don’t care about our track record, I don’t care about who our GM and manager is, and I don’t care who is playing RIGHT NOW. We have a #2 or #5 hitter batting leadoff. Our first basemen is the next Wes Helms…OVERRATED!!!! Our Bullpen is just terrible from bottom to top. For heaven sakes, we have Remlinger pitching in the 8th inning with a one run lead against the streaking Phillies…are you kidding me with this? WE HAVE NO BUSINESS WINNING WITH CRAP SUCH AS THIS! Even if two of these problems are corrected, if we don’t get a PROVEN closer quick, then we don’t have a fighting chance. Reitsma is terrible in the closers role. Move him to the 7th inning role. We need more than history on our side this year ladies and Gents…..

By John

May 11, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

I have another idea. Why the heck don’t we just deploy a closer committe, play it by ear? Whoever is doing well against certain guys get’s to go out there in the 9th. If needed I’d use 3 pitchers, 1 out each. Ridiculous? I want those door slammed, I don’t care how you do it. Just do it. Be creative, or like Schuerholz says in his new book, “think outside the box”. I think it’s time for some creativity here.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

I don’t think people understand just how important a lineup is. Giles in the leadoff spot is killing us. It affects the rest of the lineup. I don’t think there is any surprise as to why a guy like Frenchy hits better with runners on base than he does when they are not. He is a RBI producer so he fouces more when runners are on base. Its hard to drive people in when they are not there. Same goes for Andruw. Chipper’s job as the three hole hitter is to be a good hitter for average and run producer, which he still does quite well when given the opportunity. Renteria (who might I add I was blasted for saying this was a great trade when it happened) is having his talents wasted. His role as the #2 hitter is to move runners over and make contact. He has done the latter but can’t do the former because there is never anyone to move over. If you don’t think a well constructed lineup is important I suggest watching the Red Sox, Cardinals, Reds, White Sox, or Mets. These teams have all the right people in the right spots. I will also put the Phillies into that category. Their hitters feed off of each other and depend on one another. It is hard for Andruw, Frenchy, or Chipper to drive runs in when they are always facing two outs or nobody on base. Don’t tell me Francoeur can’t be a great hitter. Look at his numbers with runners in scoring position. Now, just think what his average would be if he didn’t have LaWhiff hitting ahead of him for the last six weeks. I mean it is so simple. Andruw didn’t get good pitches because pitchers knew they had LaRoche hitting behind him. Andruw, like Frenchy, is a tad bit impatient and thus this only enhances that impatience. How many times has Frenchy come to the plate with 2 outs and nobody on base. It totally changes how he is pitched. But, all of this starts at the top. Let me ask this question. Where would the Mets be without Reyes? They wouldn’t have even won that game last Friday had it not been for him. Reitsma would have never had the opportunity to blow the game.

By josh

May 11, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

Betemit right field, Frenchy triple A workin on that low and away pitch. Frency will be back and get on a tear like last year. Plus I like when Betemit hits and i know that yall do to.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

DOB good info as usual … thanks for the “babe” link … didn’t mean to cause a stir, sir!

The title, “Fix closer conundrum. Now” gave me a start … had to look up that big word … glad it didn’t mean what I first thought!!

Actually, at first glance and knowing your word plays, I thought we had a new closer named “conundrum” that was broke … but then I thought maybe you were intending something drastic … and planned to fix him good! Applying silicon carbide to his hide would do just thst … I finally realized that conundrum and carborundum are quite different … but it’s still a puzzle to me as to how I got confused.

Nite all!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 11, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

“riding along in my automobile… seal beside me at the wheel… croozin’ and playin’ the radio… with no particular place to go…”

… and where do the braves go now after losing to the lowly marlins? - with giles at leadoff batting .205 and his replacement batting .185 - and with reitsma at closer giving up four earned runs and unable to get three outs in a mop-up role … just where do they go, now?

whew … jimmy smith must rest! transition is most difficult - as dob would say, jimmy smith is “not trying to pile one.” that is what he said, right?

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Frenchy can go back to AAA. Truth is he should have never been called up but since he has it is what it is. I think Frenchy has the mindset and confidence to turn himself around. Look he is already doing that. Can anyone honestly say we are losing because of him? No way. I think LaRoche and Giles are much more pressing issues.

By Tomahawkin

May 11, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this

That picture of Reeksma on the Braves Index page has been the Epitome of our season so far, GOOD ONE DAVE…

This Team Stinks, hope they make me shut up to nite

By MS Brave Fan

May 11, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

who on the current staff should get a chance to close … ray? sosa? there are no obvious answers but i say now is the time to experiment. sure reitsma has only blown 2 saves but thats only because we haven’t given him that many chances. this is gut check time and we need to get back in this race before we are hopelessly behind.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

I still want to know if anyone has called a players only meeting or has Bobby had “a Leyland like explosion” and lit a fire under these boys. They look sluggish and disinterested. Someone needs to remind them that this won’t be handed to them they will have to earn it. Yes, the Mets and Phillies may do their usual swan song and fall flat on their face like Paris Hilton at P. Diddy party or they may not. Do they want to take that chance. Maybe someone should remind them that it will not be such a nice tag to be known as the team that ended the one of the greatest streaks in sports history.

By abravesfan

May 11, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave Knockahomer, Thomson inconsistent? Go to mlb.com and look up the best ERA’s in the league. You might find someone in a Braves uniform there… no not Smoltz, its Thomson. The inconsistency is in the Braves batting and run production, not Thomson. Smoltz is a future Hall of Famer, but there is nothing wrong with Thomson.

By Chop Chop

May 11, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

We just have to face facts. This team is not going to get a whole lot better unless:

A) Some magical farmhands come up and help save the season (last year’s script)

B) Schuerholz rips a couple of teams off for a couple of veteran bats and relievers (including a good closer)

C) new ownership comes in at midseason and wants to make a splash by acquiring a top starting pitcher and closer to help foment a “we will be damned if we don’t make it past the Division Series” postseason push.

D) Reitsma takes offense to DOB’s May 11, 2006 blog, find a strikeout pitch and becomes the lockdown closer no one (at least I hope it’s no one) ever thought he could be.

Since “D” is the least likely, “A” isn’t likely because of all the players called up last year and “C” seems doubtful, it’s going to be up to Schuerholz to avoid “thinking outside of the box” (waiver pickups, etc.) and to go get what this team needs via trade.

By Kentavo

May 11, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

Dontrelle Willis is already a star. Just think what a SUPERSTAR he would be in the ATL. You might actually see some black folks other than employees of the TED in the stands at Braves games. (That was not intended as a racist remark)

By forcesaberz

May 11, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

As bad as sosa has been as a starter this year I really think he would be a good closer. The guy generally has nasty stuff for the first 1-2 innings and then implodes and cant go more then 4 or 5. He’s a reliever who’s playing a starter now. And I think he could be a good closer. He has a high veliocity fastball and a nasty slider. Try him out!

By hk

May 11, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… re your ‘numbers’ caution from the other blog, just trying to take some of the heat off you, that’s all :)

By Chop Chop

May 11, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

Uppercase the “N” in “new” and “finds” in Choice D.

By Eric

May 11, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

Superb article. Hit the nail on the head. Reitsma needs to get the boot…..to set up.

By seal

May 11, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

seal here, posting while journalist jimmy smith too busy working on transition to notice…

seal wonders what “proven guy” would be available in may for closer. more likely roll dice with minor leaguer at this point.

now seal offer commentary/suggestion. seal remembers hearing that laroche has nice arm. same arm use to make big swing. seal wonders why not make laroche closer. solve two problems at once. find closer, and get laroche out of lineup.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

I also believe Sosa could be a good closer. Why are most closers closers? Because they have great stuff but it only seems to be good for an inning or two. Sounds like Sosa to me. Lord knows he like to get out of sticky situations. Again sounds like closer to me. Can anyone here say that he would be worse than Reitsma?

By GTGD

May 11, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

i agree with the idea- Reitsma is a great set-up man. but we need someone throwing GAS for closing. it will have to come from within unless we hit the lottery two years in a row and find another Farnsworth. maybe Ryan Madson from the Phils? but they won’t trade to a NL East rival. and i would NEVER EVER give up Salty in any trade. EVER. Devine, Jorge Sosa, or someone else will step up and get it done if we don’t trade. happens every year.

By MGL

May 11, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

Why is there still talk of Frenchy going down? Last 10 games, his ave is .347 and he has 13 RBI’s. He’s not going anywhere for a while. Oh! I forgot, has a walk also.

By Chop Chop

May 11, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

So anyway, Chop Chop Googled Neko Case. Chop Chop clicked on “Image Results for Neko Case” link. All CHop Chop have to say about first pic is “see-through”.

Chop Chop think DOB might find interest. Baby Seal, avert eyes.

By J-Baller

May 11, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, we all want Reeksma out of that closer’s role, but what are they really going to do?

By doug

May 11, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

more proof of sorry bullpen. braves have won fourteen games, four complete games, reeksma saved six and remlinger one (the other three must have been our rare blowouts). with all those one run games we have been losing the braves releivers are 7 for 15 in save opportunities. its not just reeksma, but the whole pen seems to blow up in pressure situations.

By doug

May 11, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

my point is, in order to have a save opportunity, you must have the lead late in a game. give us those eight games back and we are in a tie for first. give us five of those back and things aren’t as bad as they seem now.

By Cincybravefan

May 11, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this

Closer by commitee and Jordan or Langy at lead off would have to be better than our current plan. Go Braves!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

Hk, I figured as much … some others pitched in too, Thanks all!

Did you see Jimmy’s new “look”? His voice reminded me of Miss Patsy, listening with my third ear … I had wondered why he was asking so many questions about her!

Speaking of Jimmy Smith, a FOXSports.com news headline “… Jimmy Smith decides to call it a career” … maybe that’s what the transition talk is all about … didn’t have time to read the article but think he’s too young and productive to retire.

Saw a quote on the same page that said “Dayn Perry says that Ruth’s statistical contribution to the game has been overblown and may deserve to be eclipsed.” That Kinda sounds like he’s a Bonds supporter … and reminds me of a sad commentary seen on our blog the other day that, appeared to me, to be suggesting that illegal steroid use by players shouldn’t be held against them … since lots of players used them … and that’s just baseball. Fine … I don’t hold it against them … just want them all to be put in jail, and banished to somewhere far away that has no temptations, when they get out.

Could be he just picked on all the stir caused by my “Babe Stat” post … Maybe the DOB Blog is being used as a free source of ideas by ESPN and Fox folks.

Perry’s supposed to be independent but is listed as a FOXSports.com “author” who is a Cardinal’s Fan … but you probably know him from ESPN.

Rugs and Dead Horses!

By MGL

May 11, 2006 05:30 PM | Link to this

A potential future closer @ Miss - QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “It was evident that he had an energy that would make him effective. He has a bulldog mentality. Combine that with his stuff, and it’s not surprising that he’s done well.” — Braves manager Jeff Blauser to the Clarion Ledger about pitcher Will Startup.

Check out his stats - .095 ERA, 19 IP, 11 H, 23 SO, 3 BB. That’s what closer stats should look like.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 11, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith has rested and is now back on the blog. journalist believes this to be the first transition from chuck berry to baseball ever attempted on this blog. journalist jimmy smith is eager for critique from journalist scribe. now, baseball … journalist jimmy smith wonders why so many are saying that reitsma is a great set-up man but not a closer? jimmy smith will concede that reitsma is no closer but what makes one think he will be a great set-up? last night’s eighth inning where he gave up 4 earned runs and could record only 2 outs? it is jimmy smith’s opinion that the braves are not as strong defensively up the middle as last year and reitsma barely survived with great defense behind him. opposing players will hit reitsma. will braves players catch the batted balls and retire the batters or will the hits fall and with them the fortunes of the atlanta braves? now, scribe … fruit or cheese? now, carolina lady … jimmy smith sees crows again today. is this a coincidence or are crows scouting jimmy smith aware of his help to carolina lady in matters of the crow? now, personal hygiene and good manners … esteemed manager of the braves bobby cox last night almost went to the nose for the first time in the regular season. while on camera, bobby moved the fingers of both hands noseward (this is a word, right?) and at the last second merely rearranged nose on face. journalist could detect no probing or picking. jimmy smith recognizes the delicacy of this subject matter and has therefore left it at the end of this jimmy smith post so that young readers and seals who are internet savvy will have the opportunity to skip over nose posting if subject matter is objectionable.

By utahjoe

May 11, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

Bobby needs to make a bigger shake up with the lineup. Here is an example: 1 Langerhans 2.Mc Cann 3.Chipper (at 1st base) 4.Andruw 5.Renteria 6.Francouer 7.Giles 8.Betemit (3rd base). Now JS can trade Adam LaRoach to San Fransisco for Steve Kline and we have a decent left hander in the pen and move Chuck James into the rotation(when he comes off DL) and possibly see what Sosa can do as the closer I cannot see who the Braves can give up for a big time closer. They have to look for lower level closer options such as Justin Dourcheser with Oakland or Scott Linebrink of San Diego or Chad Qualls of Houston, granted none are proven closers but JS has to do something and all these guys are better than Rietsma. I dont even think the Braves could use Rietsma in a package to get anyone.

By Carroll

May 11, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

Reeksma should be strictly limited to situations where we need one or two crucial outs. IE: 7th inning 2 on, one out; or 8th ining, bases loaded 2 out. He seems to always be able to work some magic in small doses like that. But bringing him in to start an inning is a death wish. Like Collin Cowherd was saying the other day about A-Fraud, the thinkers are the ones who get themselves into this kind of trouble, and I believe Reeksma is just too much of a thinker when he comes in to start an inning. But when he omes in to one pressure-packed situation, he’s lights out.

Thoughts?

By Ron Roberts (for real)

May 11, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Face it… I think we can forget about a move to acquire anybody or anything that raises this team’s salary ONE DOLLAR while the ownership situation is in-flux. Has anybody in the press pool even asked Schuerholz if that’s a factor? I’m curious.

But let’s also get real… Reitsma’s not what’s keeping this team from contending… the laundry list of issues that come up all fall back on a step-child status that current ownership has provide the team.

1. We don’t have a true leadoff man because we didn’t have the ability to acquire one in the off-season, and let the one we did have go because, frankly, we didn’t find his abiities important enough to lock him up before the price got too high.

2. We don’t have a deep, solid rotation because we weren’t creative and open-minded enough to believe that guys like Glavine an Maddux might have more left in their tank and were worthy of contract extensions with the team they gave so much to.

3. Inflation has gone up…gas prices certainly have… the cost of living has gone up, and yet the Braves’ payroll has stagnated at $80 million for three seasons now. Money doesn’t solve everything and nobody’s said we had to spend as much as the Mets to compete (because they’re still overpaying for what they’re getting, frankly…), but did TimeWarner think that publicly holding the line on that salary figure was going to bring attendance up dramatically? And while we’re on that, attendance last season did go up, so where’s the increase in payroll to match it? We saw an 8% increase at the gate, so what’s 8% of $80 million? $6.4 million more would’ve kept Furcal (who I’ll agree was an underperformer half of last year, but ss still young with many years of upside in his future)… or $6.4 million might’ve made Trevor Hoffman think twice about his future here or in San Diego… $6.4 million might’ve lured a Tom Gordon (who’s lights OUT in Philadelphia).

Some things will work themselves out, but the flipside is, some might not.

Francoeur probably will have a good season from here on out… but what if he doesn’t?

Giles probably will rebound to be effective at the leadoff spot this year, but what if he doesn’t?

Smoltz, Hudson, Thomson, Davies and (insert fifth starter here) probably will be the best, most consistent rotation in the division the rest of the way, but what if another freak injury takes one of the top three out? What if Kyle Davies never improves? What if HoRam never gets it back togehter? What if Sosa just flat-out does suck?

What if there is no closer options for this year in the organization? Heck, I don’t believe there are many choices. My pick? The Aussie, Pete Moylan. But that’s no lock, either.

The blog’s good, DOB, but we got more problems than one move will fix.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Kentavo, interesting comment… I usually try to include a bit of humor in with my serious coments but here’s one of my very few 100% serious questions … wrapped up in some clarifying comments.

I’m 100% positive that your remark wasn’t in any way racist, but some folks probably won’t like … just like some of the things I’ve said on occassion … like every day.

I haven’t thought about that before and I don’t get to many games any more and I’m sure I can’t judge very well from TV … “are you suggesting that blacks don’t attend the Braves games because of the limited number of players of ‘color’ on the team?”.

If it’s true, then it’s a sad commentary on pure fan support which should be “color blind” and bad too that Braves management hasn’t recognized the problem and addressed it in such a manner that the race composition of the players in no way affects the racial balance of the fan support base.

I like your honest, direct opinions and insights … wished we had more!

By Ron Roberts

May 11, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

MGL, I’m glad to hear WIll Startup’s doing well. GO DAWGS!!

I just wonder if he’s come far after being such a phenom at Georgia before struggling a bit on the way out?

By MGL

May 11, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

Ron - He did get touched up badly in his one inning spring training chance, but he shure looks solid in AA.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

Kentavo, sorry for the “repeat”

Don’t think that I’m an stupid idealist … I’m one of those but not both! I’m well aware that it’s not a perfect world in which we live … I just hope that most folks support the team regardless of their race and the race composition of the team. And I hope that Braves managements is sensitive to the problem, if it does exist, and that they do all they can to eliminate the problem.

Sorry if it was confusing … My original question was indded serious … though it may have been vague. I’m having a bad day at the plate myself … speaking of which, I’m going to get a bite before the game.

By Ron Roberts

May 11, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

True, MGL, but if nothing else, we can learn from Francoeur’s early struggles that AA batters aren’t always comparable to MLB batters.

By Jim From Tenn

May 11, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Wish Minnesota would trade Joe Nathan. guy hasn’t had a bad year in 5 years and strikes one guy out every inning pitched.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 11, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

it is true that many journalists favor a long neck bud. this becomes apparent when dining after the game. the long neck is much in demand. however, in a relief pitcher this journalist is beginning to favor a no neck. yes, that is correct. no neck paronto. we must see more of reliever paronto so that we may appreciate his abilities or lack thereof and determine if he is a potential closer for this team. much hope rests in the big man from peru. what, he is not from peru?

By MGL

May 11, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this

Ron - I agree completely. Not advocating bringing him up, just looking for future. I’m worried that we burned Devine badly by pushing him too fast. Another possibility is the big (6’8”) Aussie in Richmond, Phil Stockman.

By Jim

May 11, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

Who on the present staff would you want to close for now at least? If one were to give a number for the confidence one has that the pitcher will pitch an effective inning (where Mario Rivera is a 10 and Dan Kolb ‘05 is a 1 —generously) I would rate

Ray — 6 or 7 Cormier — 6 or 7 Villareal — 6 Remlinger — 5 McBride — 4 or 5 Reitsma — 2 or 3 Moylan — 2 Paronto — ?

Ray has only had 1 ineffective outing (the outing last Friday against the Mets was not really his fault — a seeing eye single and a little bloop). He should have been the first option out of the pen that night. As someone has said, he is as or more effective against lefties than righties.

I also question why Moylan pitched the 7th inning last night instead of Ray or Villareal. The game was still close enough that there was a chance, and Ray has not been overworked lately.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

Would those of you who somehow interpreted what I wrote to mean I think one fix (closer) will take care of the problems, please re-read the post and stop insinuating that’s what I said? Please.

It’s simply not what I wrote. Geez, folks, I don’t have an hour a day to list one by one all the problems of the team and how to fix them. I simply addressed the CLOSER JOB AND REITSMA. OK? So if you want to talk about the other crap, that’s perfectly fine by me. Just stop acting like my leaving stuff out means I’m somehow implying those aren’t all problems that must be dealt with.

Some folks assume the blog should every single day be a definitive update on the entire state of the team, the front office, the payroll, the roster, every freakin’ thing. No, no, no. It’s not that. It’s supposed to be, as I’ve written many times, something they want us to spend 10 minutes or less on per day, an issue to throw out there and have you discuss. I spend much, much more on it, but not nearly what some of you apparently expect.

Address an issue, any you want, talk about it, but stop telling me that I should talk about this or that. This simply isn’t the primary duty of my job, it’s not what I’m getting paid for. And I have to spend 10 hours a day doing the rest of my job.

And don’t EVEN come back with some smarta** reply about me complaining or whining or being crabby. if you do, you’re weak and unimaginative.

Out

By uga4ever

May 11, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this

I say trade Giles for a quality starter. That would be a fair trade. Then move, Betemit to 2nd.

By Jim

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

DOB,

What is the injury status of Devine and Boyer? Is Devine’s problem physical or one of confidence?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this

MGL, I’m eatin a “ham and CHEESE” sandwich listening to the pregame … this pitcher Will “Startup” sounds like a good solution for a lot of things … lets folks what a good job Jeff Blauser is doing!!

Let’s ask him real nice … “Will StartUp, will “Closingup” here be okay with you? It Will with us! … It’s not like we haven’t brought folks up from there before … and from an experience standpoint, that nice Aussie boy hadn’t that many innings when we gave him a try … of course, he’s not doing very well. Our expections could be maybe a full 30 points lower that what he’s acheiving in MS … a 1.25 ERA would work just fine.

By Joe Roman

May 11, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

How about Peter Moylan for closer? Nobody’s got a book on him. He throws strikes, hides the ball well and has an odd delivery. My intuition has always been pretty good on this sort of thing too. Before even considering moving Giles, he needs to be moved out of leadoff. If he’s still in the tank at the end of May and still batting leadoff. I’ll join the second-guessers.
One bad loss to the Marlins is no reason to panic. In baseball, even every fish has its day. Don’t let the squirrels get to you, Dave. You should see what they do to Luckovich.

By Greg

May 11, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this

Does anyone in the minors have serious Mark Wohlers-type gas? If so start grooming him now.

By Tomahawkin

May 11, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I wouldn’t trust Reeksma to be the bat boy let alone try to get one or two outs….Send him Back to cincy and give us our Bong Back!

By Appreciative

May 11, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

Dave, Your blogs are so much better than the others on AJC.com because you do more than simply put a question out for discussion. Thank you for doing more than just posing a question like “Should we trade Salty for Lidge?” and leaving it at that. Your blog is very informative and enjoyable. Yours is the only blog on the whole site, much less the sports section, that I make a point to read (several times) every day.So a few people say “Well what about this?” and “what about that?”, take it with a grain of salt. We appreciate your extra effort. It shows! Thanks.

By Tomahawkin

May 11, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

True That! Anyone off the streets or in the minors, with Mark Wohlers type gas or Rockers Curve, Please Stand Up! Were gettin desperate, I think John S. Should look to Japan and Mexico and find some cats there that can pitch….

By Steve

May 11, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this

I Wonder if we are going to see Jeckyll Hudson or Hyde Hudson tonite………….

By geechee

May 11, 2006 07:13 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with Appreciative. You do have the best blog on the AJC site. You take it seriously David and it shows, believe me.

The Braves are in a tough situation this year because there is nobody “teamwise” that you can point the finger at. The Braves are not puting the talent on the field that we know they are capable of because of the owners of the team. They will not put out the money management needs to fix the problems.

They do not care about the argument that they will just lose more money because the attendance is just going to drop as the season wears on because they don’t care. The owners are not Braves fans and even worse, if anything they are Mets fans and have no real desire to change anything. They simply want to dump this team so they can get back to openly rooting for the two NYC teams.

I’m a Braves’ fan win or lose but I truly feel the pain of the Braves’ fans that are used to winning.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 07:23 PM | Link to this

John,

Thanks for the insight on how the posting on this thing works. I haven’t noticed the Label Change but figure that’s standard. Do you know what window of opportunity I have to hit the escape key to cancel the browser request?

Do you know if IE 7.0 Beta sends headers to cancel and reverse the action after it’s sent the last packet?

Are you saying that if I click the “please wait” after escaping … it will tell the browser to cancel the “cancel operation” already in progress and to initialize a second “post”; causing the dual posting?

I can’t get mine to cancel by hitting either the Browser or the escape key … so at this point i can’t test the rest.

I may be my computer … I’m still using Windows 2000 server because it’s friendlier toward SQL 7.0 than 2003 Server … and because I’m too lazy to become expert on the advanced features of the 2003 web server.

I know for a fact that I’ve had problems sending and receiving files and directories between my Terminal Services Server and the my Client connections for the last 2-3 weeks … so maybe the problem is connected to the same thing.

Thanks!

By hk

May 11, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… think Jimmy’s inquiries about Ms Hensley had to do with the seeming correlation between your amazing late night energy surge and ‘Walkin’ after Midnight’ …

… yes Dayn’s piece a definite reaction to your compelling arguments earlier today …

… Rugs and dead horses, yes, not your stuff at all, but … oh, well …

… just got up from a nap, a little groggy, maybe better later ..

By HEAD COACH

May 11, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this

Yep , ben saying it since spring training , we need a closer and a leadoff hitter with speed . Nice of you too join the band wagon Mr. O’brian.

By PA Bravefan

May 11, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this

MGL you are right on track with 2 of your posts! I agree Francouer is coming around. He has driven in a lot of runs over the past week and a half. Compare his number to one of our supposed best players, Chipper. Sure Chipper has a better average and will eventually start hitting the ball a longway, but so far, He has been out homered by Frenchy and Frenchy has more RBI. I know He was on the DL, but he hasn’t been the leader w need him to be. Lets get some people fired up, have a closed door meeting, show some emotion for God’s Sake!! Frenchy is on pace to hit 25 - 30 Hr and drive in around 100. If he doesn’t raise his average anymore, I would still take it for right now!! Nobody at Richmond has that potential from the outfield spot. The second thing I agree about is Will Startup!!! His numbers are phenomenal!!! Let him pitch down there for another month or so, If he is still performing at the same level on June 11. Get his A* a ticket to Atlanta Pronto!!!! We did it last year with some guys and they did well. As for the rotation, If Ramirez comes back healthy and performs well great, if he doesn’t look like he is going to get to wher we want him to get, look to trade him. He has to have some value. I think Chuck James should be sent back to Richmond after his stint on the DL, and start getting stretched out to be a starter again. He has done well in the bullpen, and noone has even mentioned how well he has done. If things don’t get turned around soon, we WILL be out of this race!! Philly just called up what very well could be the next dominate pitcher in Cole Hamel! I have seen him, and trust me if he is healthy he will be a star by the end of the year. The Mets record is a bit misleading, Check out how many games they have played against sub 500 teams (us included) They will start to come back to earth when they play the Cards, Yanks, Red Sox and the other decent teams. WE NEED TO GET HOT NOW against the weak. Marlins and Nats (8 games with these two in the next 10 days!)

By hk

May 11, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… hah, better now … I went back to win2000, much more solid than anything later … went to Firefox a couple of years ago infinitely better than IE, zero problems (and zero MS updates) … have DSL, the AJC website is by far the slowest access of anything on the net … my theory, the load placed on it by multiple blog updates going on all the time … these blog pages grow to well over 200k, and there are many of them … as a result, many times when I hit ‘Post’ the thing will hang up … often hitting ‘reload’, even if you wait awhile, will cause dual post … no way to edit or correct that I know of … lot of sites have an edit option, would love that …

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this

geechee, I read your response to Appreciative and we both know that Mr. David Obrien is well aware of how we feel about his skill and his “well beyond the call of duty” involvement relative to the development of interesting material interest and personal participation that makes this different than any blog I’ve seen - he makes you feel like a real friend and neighbor, as do many on this block. I think he made it pretty clear where he was comming from … but, am going back afer the game and reread the lead and his other remarks, just to make sure … maybe then, I’ll find out if I’m in his dog house.

My real reason for the post was just to tell you that even though I seldom agree totally with all you say; your sincerity, genuine concern and elequence get you my vote for Braves Fan of the day!

Keep it up!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 11, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

perhaps it is time to fit dob with a protective pad. is it just journalist jimmy smith or did dob appear to be a bit cranky in that last post? now, hitting to the right side … the announcers marvel at the fact the braves are meeting the ball and pushing it into right field. so does journalist jimmy smith! did you see francoeur strike the ground trying to hit a pitch 2 feet outside the zone? not all braves are subscribing to tp’s new publication. now, hk has jimmy smith confused with hk’s last post. journalist sometimes wonders if bob and hk talk in code - secret actuary code?

By Bob, journalist jg

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

hk, I sure do like the nice things you say … but don’t believe very much of it … I know better … But I’m glad your mama taught you be be nice and try to make folks feel good too!

I really stepped in it more than once today … but tried to fix thiongs, explain where I was comming from, and generally repair fences. Take a look when you have time … on both blogs and give me some feedback.

Thanks! Looks like we had our hitting shoes on in the first 2 innings … suppertime … later, Francis.

By J-Baller

May 11, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, You spend 10 hours a day to write an article or 2? Wow, speaking of unimaginative…

By old timer

May 11, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I am ready to use Reitsma any way you want. Or not at all. My patience with him is used up. I don’t care if Villareal is 0 for 9 in saves tries. I’d start with him now and try to make a trade. About the only good things to happen this year are McCann and Renteria. Everything else has been pretty much worst-case scenario. Maybe we can steal Willis since he’s pitching so bad. What we really need is Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz and Avery in their 20s to cover up all the weaknesses.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

Jim, I don’t know why the Boyer question keeps coming up. He’s done for the year, just had shoulder surgery.

Devine’s problems are a bad back and truly horrible results in his brief stints in the majors. Even after he’s physically ready, the Braves will need to see some steady work from him in the minors before giving him another crack in the majors.

Until last night, Moylan had been pretty solid. But the Braves have been careful using him, too. Don’t know if they have enough confidence in him yet to consider him for closer.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Startup, by the way, could get some consideration soon, after he’s pitched a while longer above A-ball.

As for Dontrelle Willis, can folks here please put on hold any talk of trading for him now? I mean, he’s lost four straight starts and he’s been simply awful for a month now. So even while he may have a great career, he isn’t looking like a solution to any immediate problems for any team.

The Braves need help now, not for the future.

By hk

May 11, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this

jimmy,, code … you’re the one that got me started :) … Hensley = Virgina Patterson Hensley = miss Patsy of ‘Walkin’ after Midnight’ Fame … your prior inquiries re ms Cline, and Bob’s fondness for her music …

… here’s some code for you: propose season ending party in a certain Lady’s backyard inviting all Braves, asked to wear baseball shoes, come direct from the duggout … solve bird problem ??? (Hint: Bobby, as observed by jimmy recently)

By old timer

May 11, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

I’d say Willis is proven, DOB. He can turn it around quickly, especially with a good defense, which right now is about the Braves’ only strength. Might be a gamble, but I’d take him right now, start him in four days and see what happens. Starting pitching is a huge concern for the Braves, and who else can they bring in who could have a big impact?

By geechee

May 11, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

“The Braves need help now, not for the future.”

And there in lies the problem and worries for this team because we know that help will not be forthcoming. If they were going to let JS have the money to find some relief pitching,it seems they would have done so during the offseason when the pickings were much better than now. Everyone saw this coming. The only real hope for relief pitching is if the team gets sold fairly soon while there is still time to turn this around and the new owners want to compete. The team doesn’t really need that much to contend again but, what it does need takes money.

By geechee

May 11, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this

old timer, our starting pitching is not that bad. It might be compared to what we were used to on this team but, it is much better than what a lot of other teams including the Mets have. What needs to be addressed but won’t is the relief pitching.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 11, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, seems like your 20 footer is working fine … I will try to respond to much of what you’ve toched on later when I get my new one … the old 10 foot 2001 version that I tried as a temporary replacement got me in a lot of deep water today … and I really was just trying to be nice.

I was very dissapointed with one person’s reaction (tony, I think) to the “Babe” piece … and I’m afraid I came on a bit too strong … but, he didn’t answer my response to his remarks.

I fear that maybe today’s posts were a little off the mark … but The Lady, MGL and others, including DOB, were mighty nice and acknowledged the “Babe” story; comming to my aid when I was getting hammered.

Part of my last note to Chill Wills was to see if I could get some feedback from him on my misadventures … I invite you to do the same.

By hk

May 11, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… per your request, looked over your various dialogues from earlier today … well, on the one hand, I’m with jimmy, still think you take folks reactions too much to heart … but on the other hand, the way you talk to people on this blog (your humility is definitely not phoney), settles them down and they ultimately become solid members of the community, see it happen over and over again … (I know what you’re thinking, yes, I am in a good mood, Braves up 8-0)

By old timer

May 11, 2006 08:51 PM | Link to this

geechee, true, and money doesn’t talk as loud during the season. It is only useful if a team not in contention wants to dump a high-paid closer for prospects. But as I recall, the available free-agent closers this past offseason were all aged and risky, and I imagine trade demands from teams with closers to deal were outrageous. People get on JS for not making a deal for a closer, but if he had made a lopsided trade, with Salty and others in it, that would not have been popular either.

By old timer

May 11, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this

geechee, you wrote the post about our starters as I was writing my previous post. Our starting pitching is ordinary. Two are very good and the rest are good one outing, bad the next. Even Hudson has been spotty. I like Davies for the future, but not many kids will jump in and be lights out right away, and he hasn’t been.

By hk

May 11, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

… Chill Wills ???????? ….. hmmmmm, I always liked him …

By geechee

May 11, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this

But that is not the problem with this team old timer. Most of our starters will probably come around sooner rather than later. The immediate need as David pointed out is relief pitching. We can pretty much see what we have already and it ain’t much. Look at all the one run games we have lost and many of those should not have even ended up as one run games. If JS can possibly swing some funds away from NYC they should only be used on relief. The thing is NYC is not going to provide funds to bail out the ATL. They don’t even like owning this team.

By journalist

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

we will see paronto! stay tuned for the entertainment. journalist jimmy smith wishes the big man much success. if he has his stuff maybe he can step in and become the closer. then again …

By Tony

May 11, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

Bob,

I just like talking Braves baseball, that’s all. No offense and didn’t mean any.

As for the Braves and their bullpen and lack of clutch/professional hitters. Those are the two main reasons they have only 1 World Series ring in 14 years. So why are we surprise about this year? This year is just awful in the regular season.

By hk

May 11, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… see what I mean ???

By MGL

May 11, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

PA Braves Fan - You are right on target as far as I am concerned. I am more worried about the Phillies with this Hamel fellow than the Mets. I hope that Will Startup keeps performing so that we can see him later in the year - looks like we may need him. However, I don’t want to bring him up too soon. Based on the numbers, could be another Huston Street. Let’s wait till he’s ready. Plus, Will evedently is a good clean-living Christian guy from Georgia - nothing wrong with that!!

Just watched no-neck Paronto’s performance. Not bad, especially after Todd Pratt went out and settled him down. Todd is a perfect example of what veteran leadership can do to help this team. btw Jordans getting it done today too.

By Joe Roman

May 11, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this

I case any of you guys actually pay attention to the games, the Shell Dontrelle trend continued tonight, and it was the Braves doing the shelling. I know it you pathetic fantasy baseball types get a rise out of playing general manager, but the last thing the Braves need to be trading for is a starting pitcher. It’s May, for God’s. Nobody trades in May.

By Carolina Lady

May 11, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

DOB, you are the best and you are greatly appreciated! It is YOUR efforts that make this blog so successful and popular. Just remember that some who vist and post may not have had all their meds that day. :-) Most of us know how much time is invested to be able to turn out regular columns and blogs every day. A big bouquet to you, with our thanks! :-)

By Joe Roman

May 11, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

Correct me if I’m wrong, but with the exception of Julio, Furky and few miscellaneous relievers whose numbers weren’t any better than this year’s crop, this is essentially the same team as last year. Except Renteria is BETTER than Furcal. The organization doesn’t panic. That’s their strength. Most of you guys do. That’s why you don’t have jobs in baseball. I’d bet the farm Giles has until the end of this month to show value in the leadoff spot. Relax, for Gods’ sake!

By hk

May 11, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

… team batting average just jumped from .257 (12th in league) to .265 (8th) … era from 4.52 (10th) to 4.41 (8th)

By journalist jimmy smith

May 11, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

carolina lady is sweet. rough, crusty, old dob will, no doubt, feel better after the kind words from the lady of the blog. now, dob … you must help the lady rid her yard of crows. any ideas? journalist smith notes luckovich was again mentioned in today’s blog. somebody rubbing it in? now, bob and cheese … bob has been a journalist for only a few hours and already he is consuming greasy, cheese sandwiches. bob, this is not good. you must try fruit. if bob continues to eat cheese jimmy smith will notify doc for emergency counsel and advice to journalist bob. now, chuck berry transition tried earlier by this journalist … apparently this transition did not play well with what appears to be a country-music blog audience. next transition will incorporate pickup truck, ex-wife, dog, and can of beer. now, baseball … no-neck gave up no runs. as is the tradition with atlanta braves dugout coach bobby dews - he attempted to hug pitcher around the neck (must be southern to appreciate this) but found no neck. bobby dews is clever man. instead, he gave noogie to pitcher with crew cut. noogie has absolutely nothing to do with boogie which is topic we will avoid in deference to bobby cox. now, journalist is going for post-game fruit bowl. bob should do same.

By hk

May 11, 2006 10:05 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman,

… agree on no need for a starter, but I feel like being with the Braves would make all the difference for Dontrell … he is really a good guy, a team type of guy, full of youthful exuberance … the thing he is lacking this year is any kind of hope for his team, that’s what has affected his performance … imagine him in our duggout with all our other young ones, believe he’d do a turnaround overnight …

… maybe over the winter …

By Josh K.

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

Jason, knock off that crap about the burritos. It’s getting old man. Grow up

By Carolina Lady

May 11, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

Hey, Jimmy Smith! Your words are kind and appreciated! LOVE Chuck Barry!! Spent much time on the dance floor to that music ‘back in the day’! Like most all MUSIC - which excludes noise posing as music.

Hoping to break the ‘Fish feast’ of last night, I drug out the old john-boat and caught a few fish in the sound and had a fish fry tonight! Just scrumptious! Sorry it wasn’t Marlin, but that takes a little more ‘boat’ than I have! :-) Does the thought count??

Have been too busy to deal with the crows lately but they don’t seem to be as troublesome as they were. Guess they don’t like having their Be-hinds peppered with BBs!

I know that Shuerholtz is doing his level best to find realistic solutions to the team’s problems, but there is only so much he can do without the money to pull it off.

I think we’re just going to have to hang in there and pray alot!

By Joe Roman

May 11, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

Maybe so, hk, but how long until free agency? With ownership up in the air, working the farm system is the only thing that makes sense for the Braves. One year rentals, maybe, but Dontrell is a very risky proposition. As a person, I feel for him too, but that’s baseball. Can you imagine what a roller coaster ride it must be playing for the Marlins? At least, with Kansas City and Pittsburgh players know what they’re in for.

By PA Bravefan

May 11, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this

Has anyone else read the articles about Liberty Media wanting to get Ted Turner involved if they buy the Braves? Please God Let his be True!!! Since Ted Left we haven’t been able to get what we need. I am not saying that I still would not prefer to see Arthur Blank Get the team instead!!!

By geechee

May 11, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

PA Bravefan, don’t hold your breath waiting on that to happen. It would have to be a deal Ted could not refuse and I’m not sure what that would be.

By Carolina Lady

May 11, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

From what I’ve read, Turner has NO interest in returning to baseball.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

Send Francoeur down where? I think the kid is just fine. I have to say I was very encouraged by what I saw in the Braves’ offense tonight. They actually approached the game intelligently and won it very convincingly.

By hk

May 11, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman,

… well, I don’t know how many years Smoltz and Thomson have left, a new young guy would be good to fill the shoes, maybe some money could be freed up somehow knowing the older guys are leaving soon … maybe opportunity this winter, Dontrelle with a down year our negotiating position improves a little, plus I think he would love to come to the Braves, again, help in maybe cutting a deal, deferred big income until later years type of thing …

… agree that our farm system is key, am fairly optimistic about the Liberty deal ..

By ernesto

May 11, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Sosa as closer? He has thrown a few nice innings, and his stuff can look nasty at times. He also walks a ton of people and is prone to give up the long ball…and would you want him facing Delgado with a one run lead in the 9th? I know about 8 million of my NYC neighbors who would, I’d be bummed.

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady, thanks much. Others, stop calling me cranky. I was just trying to squeeze in a few comments there between innings, and sometime in haste I can be brash. A little brash. A tiny bit.

J-baller, you’re clueless. We don’t sit here for 10 hours writing. We have to toil in the clubhouse and dugout for about two hours, asking questions and trying to get answers and story ideas, and sometimes doing nothing but having to be there in order to make sure we don’t miss something that might or might not happen.

Nature of the job. Then you write your notebook just before the game and usually finish it during the first couple of innings, while taking notes and keeping an accurate scorebook of what’s happening. Then when the notebook’s done and filed, you hope there’s something that’s happened in the game worth writing, since I have to file a game story the second the last pitch is thrown so I can get down to the clubhouse, get the manager’s comments, talk to players, then get back up and rewrite with quotes added to original game story.

So yeah, as I said, you haven’t a clue with your snarky comment about taking 10 hours to write two stories. But then, your comment follows along the lines of your other ones, never contributing anything but always, always having the answer and trying to put me down. Whatever makes you feel good, dude.

Just trying to do my easy job that I’m sure you could do better and far more efficiently.

To all others who’ve posted tonight, thanks for the good dialogue and typically astute observations. I actually love reading what you’re all thinking as you watch. It often gives me ideas and it’s good to know what the die-hard fans are feeling.

J-baller, think of something clever as a retort, genius.

By TennesseePaul

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

5 strikeouts tonight. 3 of those from the bench warmers. Not a bad night at all. Our leadoff guy was on 50% of the time. This is a good sign. A bad sign is not hitting bad pitchers. We hit the crap out of a descent pitcher and slew of bad ones. We got what it takes. So long as Reitsma isn’t allowed near the mound.

GO BRAVES!!!

By David O'Brien

May 11, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Chop Chop, thanks for reminding me about the Neko Case photos. Is she stunning, or what? And an incredible voice.

By Andy

May 11, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

First of all, I think the lineup needs tinkering. It was about time Cox switched Mac and LaSuck in the order. I would give Langerhans a shot to leadoff, followed by Giles, Renteria, Chipper, Andruw, McCann, Frenchy, and Jordan. I am tired of LaSuck not making contact. Jordan has been doing well lately. I know Renteria has been a two hole hitter, but he has also thrived at other spots in the order in the past. Chipper also prefers batting third, but I really think this lineup might do the trick.

As far as the bullpen goes, this group is full of wash-ups. Teams do not win in the playoffs without good pens. I think Schuerholz should try and swing a deal for a set-up man like Duchscherer of the A’s, or Betancourt of the Indians, if he was healthy, to be the closer. I would move Reeksma back in the set-up role for the time being.

Go Braves!

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 11, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, what do you think of Francoeur right now. Does he seem to be getting it together?

By Eric

May 11, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this

I have always had faith in Frenchy. I drafted him as my 3rd OF in my fantasy league and while everyone was laughing in my ear during his horrid start, I stuck with my guns. I was confident that he had or at least should come around. To much talent not to. I’m glad to see him round into form and help the team win.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

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

Well, Eric, I think you are one of very few that had true faith in Francoeur. I have said before and I will say it again. I honeslty believe the WBC messed him up. I understand it was a great honor but he needed to be in spring training. I think if he had been this slow star wouldn’t have happened.

By TennesseePaul

May 11, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

DOB: I appreciate the work. You do a good job. It’s entertaining yet informative. But I still don’t pitty the amount of labor that comes with your job. You’re covering the Braves. You’re at all the games. Hanging out with the ball players after the game “getting quotes.” And, you’re covering the Braves.

Braves have a real favorable schedule right now. They need to capitolize. I sure hope they do.

speaking of busy schedules… This one coming up is going to be real busy. I’m flying out to Pheonix for a few games there, then over to Diego for a few games there. In between I have a free game in LA due to the rain delayed game at the start of the season. Gotta save up some beer and hotdog money.

Let’s do this Bravos!

By Andy

May 11, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

I just hope that somehow Arthur Blank will pulloff a miracle and be able to to buy the team. We need a passionate owner who CARES about the Braves, and will spend in order to improve the team. Schuerholz does have his hands tied financially, but I would like to see a deal for a closer. Read my suggestions above for the closer. I would really like to see Betemit in the lineup more often. He should play second base if Giles keeps this up. I do think Giles should be given the benefit of the doubt though.

By tyyosh

May 11, 2006 11:56 PM | Link to this

Regarding Dontrelle, Did you see those “hits” in the six run third that would have been outs with any competent defense? I wonder how much of his results are due to the woeful fielding behind him. I was impressed with his demeanor, with no support behind him, not showing disgust, still out there working. I would take this guy in a second, and he would thrive here. Finding players that Fla needs, however, is a whole different story.

By Penn

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

Toward the end of this year some contender is going to get a 3rd baseman from the Marlins and he will make a huge difference for them.

I look at players with one thought, “does he make me nervous when he comes up against us and I can tell you Cabrera makes me nervous every time he steps into the batters box. BTW he can also play a very good LF.

Dontrelle Willis is not doing well right now but he has a bright future in my opinion. One game he lost was a 3-1 job. It’s hard to win when your team is not scoring for you and also is makng errors behind you. He is disheartened right now but he will not stay there.

By Eric

May 12, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this

On TBS, when Willis was being taken out, right before the camera cut to commercial they had a tight shot on Cabrera. You could read his face like writing on a wall. It screamed “god we are terrible.” I mean at the very least you need to have fun, but if your that bad its kinda hard to. Hopefully Cabrera isn’t a Vlad type player and wastes away for a good portion of his career on a team that is going no where. That would be a shame for such a talent.

By Eric

May 12, 2006 12:04 AM | Link to this

I dont know if Cabrera can play a very good left field. He is a 3rd basemen by trade and has 9 errors this yr so far.

By brian

May 12, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

DOB- Right on the money as usual but who should the Braves target as closer and who realistically is available?

Jose Mesa at Colorado is probably one choice and would cost us Jurries or Thormon I imagine, but I do not see Colorado dealing him while they are still in the hunt in the West.

Rodney in Detroit would be a better long term option, but again with Detroit playing well and Todd Jones on and off the DL he would be hard to pry away. Getting Rodney as a closer and Granderson as LF/leadoff would help tremendously, but it would cost us Giles and a top prospect.

JJ Putz will be available in Seattle. NO way would I touch everyday Eddie. I would prefer Soriano, but due to his potential would require more trade bait.

I do think that Cordero will return to form in Texas, and he may be able to be had for Thomson (who has been our most consistant starter this year - big price to pay)

Maybe Boston would get desperate enough at SS and trade Hansen for Betemit, but while I am dreaming maybe they will throw in Ortiz at 1B (kidding)

I just do not see many options out there, but as much as I want the Braves to do something now, I do not want them to mortgage the future. The future is Davies and James in the starting rotation, Salty at 1B, McCann at catcher, Elvis at 3B, the Cuban at SS or 2B, or Prado at 2B, Francoeur in RF.

By Eric

May 12, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this

And AJ in Center. Hey he’s only 29.

By Brian

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

Nathan from Minnesota for Devine and Prado?

By brian

May 12, 2006 12:20 AM | Link to this

and yes AJ in center. Of the Braves vets, I still see Giles as most likely to be traded. Contract up at the end of this year. Has high trade value, and we have multiple IF prospects to step up including Betemit, Escobar, Prado

By hoho

May 12, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this

Plus, Will evedently is a good clean-living Christian guy from Georgia - nothing wrong with that!! well isn’t that nice. i thought i’d been reading these posts for too long w/o seeing some “chrixton” values on here. frankly i’d don’t think most of us would give a hoot if dude was a stoned rasta as long as he could get 3 outs in the 9th, or hit a gapper. geez! i know, if you’re a christian your supposed to spread the love ro something, unfortunately that’s what makes most of them annoying as a fly in my ear. god bless the world.

By HEAD COACH

May 12, 2006 03:11 AM | Link to this

Giles will be arbitration eligible this off season , this is his 5th full season and 8th over all. He only becomes a free agent if Atlanta fails to offer him arbitration. But , I do agree that Giles and Thomson are more than likely the to be traded if JS so chooses to trade big contracts. Smoltz , Andruw and Chipper are 5& 10 players , five years in the big leagues and ten with the same team and are pretty much the heart of the franchise.I dont envy JS one bit , with ownership up in the air , an 80 million cap and a tight 4 to 6 million to work with leaves him with no room for error. Which is why I believe Thomson will still be traded if Horacio Ramirez is healthy and effective. If the Muts want dontrell , they can have him , he is all screwed up. His mechanics and playing on a joke of a baseball team doesnt help. Nice game tonight guys , DOB they dont pay you enough for what you have to put up with. Luv the blog Dave , keep up the good work.

By old timer

May 12, 2006 05:17 AM | Link to this

We have so many needs right now we can’t fill them all. Need to grab best players available for maybe two of them. Looks like Cox will continue to bang the Reitsma conundrum slowly. More patience than I have. But I’m not going to knock a guy who built a good part of the ‘91 team as GM and then managed them to 14 straight division titles. This might be the year we are reminded those things aren’t that easy to win.

By THL

May 12, 2006 06:55 AM | Link to this

Sosa didn’t do that well as a reliever with Tampa but he had a great year last year for the most part. I’d like to see what he could do as a closer where he could cut down to three pitches and really let loose for an inning. He gets behind a lot of hitters though so closing may not be in the question for him. It seems that his starts lately are good at first but then he can’t seem to do damage control later. Maybe he’d be more effective working 1-2 innings rather that trying for 6-9 every game. I don’t know.

By Mets Suck

May 12, 2006 08:06 AM | Link to this

mets suck. braves rule.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

hoho,

I agree that most fans would accept players of any faith, including the Blacks who worship Haile Selassie as Jesus, if they could they could help the team. But I find your use of the descriptive term “stoned rasta” is being religiously intolerant and repulsive; regardless of their traditional use of Marijuana in their worshiping practices.

My opinion is that your intent is to suggest that most others share your opinion that a player’s values are of no importance totally unimportant so long as we win and I firmly believe that not to be the case.

While I agree that overly entheustic zealots can be annoying, from my perspective, your callousness falls into that same category. “Spreading Love” as you call it, is a practice pollowed by good people everywhere and is not the exclusive property of Christians. I would sincerly hope that you share in the belief that the values that others hold sacred are indeed to be respected, even when you do not share in those beliefs.

I can’t speak for MGl, but his remarks should not in anyway offend anyone, period! I believe that Atheists and reasonable people of all faiths would understand and support what he said! I certainly do … and I applaud him for saying it!

I anticipate and will understand if my remarks offend you … indeeed, that is my intent. I find your behavior both despicable and inexcusable.

By Mark

May 12, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this

giles’ play is really starting to disgust me. my opinion to to either switch him or renteria or him and mccann. they are both proving to be the only awake bats on the roster. as far as trading a jones, whoever said that, as inconsistent as he is, he is more than just a bat. 8 time straight gold glove??? his bat will wake up to. but giles…… maybe schulerholz can call deion and see if he will come out of retirement in this sport. he can’t do any worse than giles is. but i have full faith that giles will catch fire and start killin

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 08:20 AM | Link to this

I in no way apologize for any of my remarks to hoho, but do apologize to all for my outburst … and for the obvious duplicated word segments and typos. The glare on my screen at the moment is such that I can’t see what I’m writing until it’s posted.

Thanks!

By ssiscribe

May 12, 2006 08:25 AM | Link to this

A long,long Friday awaits, with Bonds not playing until 10:15 p.m. (and the fact I gotta wait on Barr-oid tonight to see if he indeed ties or passes the Babe).

Anyway, a few observations from watching the game and reading the blog last night/this morning, then I’m going back to sleep for a couple of hours (damn, I hate West Coast games that matter):

• If you haven’t ever spent a week covering a team (at any level, in any sport, for any size publication), then you truly have no idea the work that goes on and how much running around and/or “hurry up and waiting” that goes into the stories you see the next morning.

• A blogger’s purpose is to toss out a topic and let the masses have at it. The fact a beat writer, on deadline, takes the time to jump in and out of here is a good thing for those of us who enjoy following the Braves, so y’all back off DOB. His work is appreciated.

Now that I’m done defending the Fourth Estate, baseball …

• Funny how everybody panics one day, then relaxes the next. Just shows how passionate folks are about this ballclub, and that’s a good thing. Just remember, you can’t win them all, and the trends since Sunday has been, for the most part, encouraging.

• A few folks have mentioned the schedule. Just like last year, the Braves have had a lot of games away from home early, meaning they’ll close with a lot of games at the Ted. Seventeen of the next 26 are at home, starting with seven games against the Nats and Marlins, two teams that both suck wind. So, stay calm and let this team get going.

• In order for them to get going, the Braves need more nights like last night (duh, that’s brilliant! But, stay with me here). Atlanta had 18 hits, but how many homers? Zip. The Braves played some small-ball last night (have no idea on the AP style for small-ball, but a hyphen seems to work). Hitting behind runners, wearing out the opposite field, hitting in the gap. Good stuff, instead of trying to hit it a mile.

• Giles two hits in the leadoff spot. Gang, he’s awful streaky, and that can be bad at the top of the order. But, when he’s hot, he’s really gonna set things up, and you have a very, very consistent hitter in the 2-hole in Renteria.

• Diaz had a great spring, and a great game last night. Langerhans still is your starter in left, but it was good to see Diaz come in and make an impact.

• Everything this team gets out of Brian Jordan is a bonus, but so far, so good, knock on wood.

• Closer: Braves need one, simple as that. Go get somebody, now (easier said than done, and you gotta give up somebody, so get ready to deal with that). In the meantime, I said last year that Sosa, when he’s on, has some of the best stuff on the team. I’d seriously consider putting him down there at some point in time. Reitsma indeed is a super guy in the clubhouse (and a hockey fan, too, being from Canada), but his spot is the eighth.

Now, Jimmy … nice transition with Chuck Berry. Impressive. But why in the world did you retire from the Jags yesterday? Does the hippie lettuce have something to do with it? It won’t be the same without J-Smooth in that locker room, for sure.

Over and out from the coast. Everybody enjoy the weekend.

By ssiscribe

May 12, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

Sigh … I really need some sleep:

Above post should’ve read “trends since Sunday HAVE BEEN …” Nothing like screwing up subject-verb agreement to start the day. Probably’ll misspell my name before the day is through, LOL.

Time for breakfast, and a nap. See ya.

By new life

May 12, 2006 08:44 AM | Link to this

Stop taking the Lord’s name in vain in writing your articles. You can always use “For Buddah or Muhammad’s sake” instead if you must insult a religion.

By Mark

May 12, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

thanks for that insight ssiscribe. you are absolutely right

By Paul Hamilton

May 12, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

DOB, can you tell Bobby how much fun it was to see the Braves concentrate on executing a plan and succeed. They destroyed DW with singles and it was a lot of fun to watch. Maybe the team will wake up and see that there are other ways to win a game besides hitting home runs.

By Bud Butler

May 12, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this

As long as Bobby Cox thinks Reitsma is great there won’t be any changes. I’ve seen better pitchers in littleleague than Reitsma.

By Mark

May 12, 2006 09:03 AM | Link to this

well, at least we aren’t the only team who are having closer problems. looks like Brad Lidge is playing like crap too. i still wanna see D train in a bravo uniform though

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this

Mark, I doubt that the D-Train is in the Braves’ Plans … I had thought he might be tipping his pitches, and that might be, but his ability to locate his pitches was horrible last night.

Still, I think his problems are mental and more “Marlin” than “Willis”. That is, a change in scenery might solve most, if not all, of his recent woes.

By old timer

May 12, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

Bobby cannot say negative things about Reitsma. Suppose they are trying to trade him? You gonna say the guy is horsebleep? He can only use the players he’s got, and my guess is he’s starting to look elsewhere in his pen for a closer.

By Tommy

May 12, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Like several others, I appreciate the babe reference on a Braves blog, to break up the monotony of the Reeksma bashing, and the complaining about Giles in the leadoff spot. —Referrinng to the ‘babe’ mention on google images, also try amy caro in the same spot.

Suprised not to hear more about Matt Diaz after last night’s 5 for 5. We need to see more of him (& bring up Salty) in the line-up, and less of Langerhans & LaRoache.

By MGL

May 12, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

Bob - I appreciate your coming to my defense!! I apologize if my comment about Will Startup offended anyone, that was not the intent. The comment was made to pass along some information that I read to those who might not know anything about him. Somewhat like Reitsma is from Canada and likes hockey. I’m not a particularly religous person myself, but have a high degree of respect for those who are, regardless of faith.

By Tommy

May 12, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

You guys bring up good points. I did not know much about Will Startup and am excited to hear he has good stuff and may make a great closer. I would like to see him get a shot, like Kyle Farnsworth did last year.

And speaking of Farnsworth, how is he doing this year with the Yankees? (Please tell me he is scuffling, and that the Yankees overpaid for him).

And getting back to Giles, he IS a really good hitter, goes the other way to move runners over and has pop in his bat. Has he ever been tried at #6 in the batting order?

And since we don’t have a lead-off hitter, why not go for the shock treatment and make Francouer bat there for a week or so with instructions to take pitches until he gets a strike or two on him. At least he would learn some patience and the hitters behind him would get a look at the pitchers’ stuff.

I like the idea of trying to get D-Train for the future years, because Smoltz can’t pitch forever, and neither can Thomson. It makes sense to get someone like that because in addition to the older guys retiring (Smoltz & Thomson) you’ve got injury & durability issues with H-Ro & Huddy.

And put Sosa in the closer’s role already and try Reitsma in the 7th inning with Ray, Villareal & the Aussie used in set-up roles & 8th inning.

Oh-yeah, trade the graybeard and the AAA catcher, (what’s his name, Thorton?) for bullpen depth or a lead-off man!

By Mark

May 12, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

Great blog and don’t worry about these idiots that complain. Keep up the good work. You are obviously dedicated to your job and you do a great job of keeping us informed on the team.

By BOB C

May 12, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

DOB - Agree and disagree with today’s blog. Sosa would be worth a shot in the closer’s role before we trade for the next Pena or Ashby. While you were careful not to “pile on” Reitsma, Farnsworth didn’t get the same treatment. The man threw SIX outs in that hellish eighth inning in the playoffs for God’s sake. Watch a tape of that game sometime. Somebody choked all right but most of the chokers were wearing blue.

By hoho

May 12, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

BOB- no offense taken, sorry man. but thanks for helping me learn. i regret even typing the post because there really is nothing more annoying than a religious disussion taking place when we’re supposed to be talking braves baseball. MGI ‘s comments didn’t offen me, just annoyed me. although an athlete’s “values” matter at least a little to most of us, marketing and ticket sales often say otherwise. also, just because someone is a certain faith does not guarantee values. it was 1 in the morning and i thought i smelled “holier than thou” creeping into the post. yes, perhaps i have listened to too much reggae and the “stoned rasta” comment rolled off of my tongue too easliy. are there any rastas out there who would like to comment? if you’re religious and you smoke pot do you not call it being “stoned” as a result of smoking the stuff? or is there a more holy word for it? teach me. god bless the world. oh yeah, go braves! (gotta get some sports in that post- sorry y’all)

By Daybed Wagmoe

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

DOB, you rock. keep up the awesome work.

putting sosa in the closer role is scary. with his opponents’ average, HR allowed, and walks numbers, i’d really rather not see those words in the same sentence.

i didn’t see wednesday’s game (thankfully), but it looks like mcbride had a great line. 0 hits, 17 pitches in 2 innings? granted, that’s against the marlins, but on that night, nobody else was able to figure them out. given his previous appearances this year, i’m sure it’ll be a long time before mcbride is even a thought for closer. just saying that i like that line from wednesday.

so DOB, who do you think we’d have to trade? i know that it depends on who our trade partner is and what they’d need, but who would you envision seeing go? sosa needs some good starts before we can get anything in return; can we offer brayan pena yet, or do we need to give salty a little more time to develop in case mccann goes down? would anyone take kelly johnson? surely we wouldn’t go back to thinking about trading thomson…what about one of our prospect infielders?

will james jurries see any playing time this year? it’s a shame that he’s a AAAA player.

By Johnny5

May 12, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

There are four names I’d expect to see in the braves rumor mills.

-Brad Lidge: The Astros are nervous about his confidence right now which means that if a good deal comes by they might part with him. Further, if my memory does not fail me, he’s a FA after this season. On the braves side of any trade involving the Astros there would need to be power going their way. Luckily the braves have prospects with this attribute.

-Eddie Guardado: Seattle has a stud in J.J. Putz and, like Houston in Lidge, have lost confidence in their closer. Guardado has a much longer closer history behind him than Lidge, but is also much older. The problem with this trade might be what the braves have to give up. Seattle has far less holes than Houston; I know people will disagree with me on this but i digress. They have decent players at every position and it would be hard for the Bravos to give them someone to help them immediately.

-Alfonso Soriano: I’m sure this is where everyone stops reading but there’s a good reason for him showing up. I think he will not say in a Braves uniform but will be bait for another team. Specifically, I think a Braves catcher will make a journey to Washington along with an outfielder (Diaz?) with perhaps some players to be named later. Soriano would then head somewhere for a closer (Lidge?) and a lead-off-man.

-Finally, I think we will see some disgruntled starting pitching being shifted the braves way. My guess is D-Train or O. Perez will windup pitching #3 in the rotation by the end of the year. Both are young lefties with some mechanics problems. Roger is good enough to fix either’s issues (especially D-Train’s) and make them solid again. Further, with less pressure pitching in the middle of the order, both should have less stress and pitch more confidently.

By Joe Roman

May 12, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

DAVE…….HERE’S A REALLY HUGE QUESTION: Is it possible with the sale of the team so close to a reality that Schuerholz is under some kind of trade moratorium? I know in most other businesses decision making-especially those involving major expenditures or changes-tend to be postponed under similar circumstances.

By brian

May 12, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

No way do I touch Lidge or Guardado. Go for Soriano in Seattle or Rodney in Detroit. Mesa is more realistic though.

Alfonso Soriano would be way too expensive - salary wise and trade wise. Even if we considered moving Giles, they don’t need him with Vidro. They would want an OF like Francoeur, and another A-list prospect.

By Chipp

May 12, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

RUNSma is a useless freking bumb!! He was not even a good setup man, so ofcourse he’s a crap “closer”. No make that he’s just a crap pitcher period!! He’ll never be any good w/ that rushed delivery that leaves almost ever pitch to high.

Some of you must not even watch the game. Why send Jeff down now when he’s finally getting hot. Also putting Chipper at firt to an idotic idea & won’t save him from getting injured. He’ll have way more action overthere & MORE chance for injury. Plus he’d be playing an unfamilar position. You can’t stick just anyone at first. Him playing the OF is was got him in trouble. That slip on SF’s horrid truf would’ve happened at first too.

By Penn

May 12, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

Soriano has screwed up every clubhouse he’s been a part of. Why would anyone think he will change? He’d fit in the middle of Red Sox country much better than in Braves country.

People keep talking about bringing up Salty. Succinctly put, we don’t need a third catcher right now and if we did then Eddie Perez is batting .300 in 9 games.

Thorman can play either first or left field and bats left with some power. And he’s hitting .300 in AAA. If they want another OF/1B then Thorman is the man/

A closer? Wow, if anyone came up with a viable candidate they would deserve a gold medal.

Odalis Perez? He’s another walking attitude, looking for someone to attack. I can’t see Bobby wanting to run him through the Braves retread shop.

Adam Wainright has been in 12 games, 16.2 innings, given up one ER (0.54), struck out 17 and walked 3. We could sure use him these days.

By Ben

May 12, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

Dang Mr O’Brien. You know, I’m just going to stop reading these articles written by AJC journalists. Always pessimistic. I understand that suggestions are given for most likely reasonable concerns, but the feeling I get from alot of people is one of “let’s throw in the towel, we’ll never beat the Mets/Phillies.” Yeah, the offense sure is struggling, especially since they scored 9 runs last night playing small ball. I will be laughing at all of the pessimists out there when come the Fall, the Braves are atop the standings. I am quite confident that day will come even sooner.

By Charles

May 12, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

I blame John S for not obtaining Dannys Baez earlier in the off season,they had a chance at him but john farted around and let the Dodgers get him,also earlier Scott Sullivan was on the trade market and once again John S farted around.remember Sullivan saved 21 games for Cin.in fact sullivan might could still be had pretty resonable,he needs a change of scenery.

By john

May 12, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

A lot of theloses has to be attributed to Cox decisions to bring in the bullpen,i recall a few nights ago when thomson had an 8-1 lead and he took thomson out to bring the bullpen in,let the starters go deeper especially if they have a lead,cox seems to not like for his pitchers to get complete games.

By David O'Brien

May 12, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

Ben, if you want pollyanna ra-ra stuff, go elsewhere. I’m stating my opinions and what I believe to be an accurate reflection of the team. If you don’t want to read that, don’t read the blog on days I write it (which is about four out of every five days).

By john

May 12, 2006 11:47 PM | Link to this

I see Danny graves is available,he was a descent closer for Cincy,he can’t be and worse than Reitsma,why not sign him.he just got designated for assignment by the Indians.

By brian

May 13, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

DOB- your blogs are a must read everyday, and I like many are disappointed the days you are off and don’t blog. Thank you for your time.

By rudy ruiz

May 13, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

i hate the f***’n mets……

By GAW

May 13, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

I would not give up on Reitsma. I remember cussing out Steve Bedrosian when he was a Brave. Two years later he won the CYA in Phillie. Not giving up on Reitsma doesn’t mean I won’t be cussing him out on a regular basis.Such is life for an old Braves fan.

By john

May 13, 2006 06:55 PM | Link to this

Reitsma is no more than a setup guy,The Braves need to get a closer now,heard the saying he who hesitates is lost well that will be the Braves soon if they don’t get a closer and stop depending on Reitsma,Danny Graves is available,sign him and give him a chance,yes it is true he has struggled but who hasn’t especially with the sorry a* muts,Take a gamble on Graves,sometimes a change of scenery is the best,he couldn’t do no worse than Reitsma has,i recall him being a descent closer at one time,he might just hit it off with the Braves they appear to be a good match,also earlier in the off season the Cubs wanted to trade Scott Sullivan who also is a former closer,why not Adam Laroche for Scott Sullivan and call up Jurries or Thorman to play play 1st base with BJ as the backup.Sullivan saved 21 games a few seasons ago.i agree that Sullivan and Graves are no 40 0r 50 save guys but i bet they can get the Braves more saves than Reitsma can,look at this way,if the Braves sign Graves or trade for Sullivan and both of them fail,then you are out of the race,but what if the Braves do nothing and stick with Reitsma and he continues to fail they are still out of the race so nothing ventured nothing gained,its a long shot but it couldn’t hurt to sign Graves or trade for Sullivan.why not,it might just be a good fit,but we will never know unless the Braves try.

By Jeterhater

May 16, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

Reitsma has gotta go!!!! Let’s look at his stats: 15+ innings, 21 hits, 4 HRs, .328 BA against, 4 Walks, 1.63 WHIP, 6.46 ERA. Bobby needs to stop standing by this guy and dump him NOW. My grandmother can hit his “nasty” change-up that is 81 MPH straight across the plate. We would almost be better off with LaRoche closing, since his Dad used to be a pitcher (the only question is whether he would have an ADD episode on the mound)!!!!

Let’s try this Paronto kid, or even Chuck James, since we know damn well that TW will not use the $$$ that Chipper gave back to buy a closer. At this point, anything is better than Christina Reitsma!!!!

By Jamie

May 16, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

Ok, here’s what I would do:

I would try to trade LaRoche and some minor league prospects (except for Salty, Jeff Jurries & David Kelton - they would be untouchable) to Oakland for Huston Street. Closer problem solved.

Then I would try to work a deal with Tampa Bay for Carl Crawford (maybe Langerhans, Reitsma and a few prospects). Leadoff solved.

I would also see if I could pick up Dontrelle Willis from Florida for Jorge Sosa and a few prospects.

Move Chipper to first and play Betemit at third.