Braves

By eric the elder

May 12, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

We caught a break by not having to face Patterson. Now if we can avoid fat pitches to Soriano and Johnson, we have a reasonable shot at a sweep.

By Joe Roman

May 12, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

This where to Bobby Cox patience mantra is tested. Scheduling shifts in the Braves favor. Since Bobby’s philsophy usually proves true, my guess is the Braves will pass the test. Still, it’s important to remember IT IS ONLY MID-MAY. If y’all are going to be so tense this early, you’ll be in the nut house by the end of September. Relax! This is supposed to be fun.

By uga4ever

May 12, 2006 01:57 PM | Link to this

We have played 24 games on the road and 11 at home. It is good to be back at Turner. We have played more road games than any other MLB team at this point. So, we aren’t doing that terrible. 6-1 on this home stint would get us right back in there.

By TennesseePaul

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

This schedule is easing up a bit now.
Washington (3)
Florida (4)
Arizona (3)

I hope we win all 10 of those games. I’d love to see a 9 or 10 game win streak right now. That would sure lift my spirits. I’d like to continue blowing out teams as well. We have an 18 run lead this week. I’d like to see that get pushed up to 35 or 40.

By Wolfman

May 12, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

Braves must take 5 or 6 of these 7 home games minimum !!!!!……….and hope New York slips off and loses at least 5 to 7 games on this trip they are on and then to NYYankees…….if this happens ,…the Mets will start to feel the pressure big time. I don’t worry about Philly, their pitching is weak………

By hk

May 12, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… your exchange with hoho on the old blog, I’m reading along, thinking (yeah, yeah, yeah) than Wham!!! … the last two lines, Wow !!! … then, in the next breath, you dutifully apologized to the community at large, with a disclaimer … needless to say, highly entertaining … but then, hoho’s response … see what I mean, you did it again :) …

By Dr. Jay

May 12, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

I certainly understand the desire to see us win 7 or 8 games on this homestand…I’d love that too. But I read the same blogs last week about “now all we need to do is go 6-2 on this roadtrip” and it sure as h#ll didn’t go down that way. This team is still finding itself, but even Bobby - despite what he’s said to the press in the last 24 hours - has GOT to be at the end of his rope with Reitsma. We can’t win every game 9-1…and that’s when we’re vulnerable…

By Dave Knockahomer

May 12, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

I was downright happy for Diaz and his hits, BUT

By Dave Knockahomer

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

let me try this again! I was happy for Diaz, but WHY is it that when Ryan gets in a slump, Cox looks to Diaz or anybody. Even a short slump….BUT Cox will hang with strike-out artist LaRoche and undisciplined Francouer [who is hitting better]. Must be that La Roche and Francouer hit a homer now and then and Bobby drools.
Ryan is THE LEFT fielder……in my book. As for our home games against Nationals and the Fish, I’ll be surprised if we win more than 4 of those 7. Fer sure, the Mets and Phillies ain’t gonna have it easy, so our easy next 7 better be our best! IF we don’t get a closer, winning only four isalmost a guarantee. I mean the Fish embarrassed the heck out of us Wed. night!!!! Cox can give out all his confidence pills he wants but DOB had it right. Reitsma is a Kolbian thing. Well, I think DOB called it more poetic than that, but I can’t remember. All I know is that, at this point, there is little, if any, difference between Kolb and Reitsma. Pray the brass don’t wait until the end of the year to correct the mess. BUT then who in the world is available???

Folks, this is about mid-May. Things better change by mid-June or we can flush another division title down the john.
And fer sure, how far can we go beyond a division, praying we win it…..not far at all. Not with this mess. WHY did Cox move Francouer back to the 5th spot anyway?

By Kentavo

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

Time to take care of business. Time to trade for Keith Foulke, who is now setting up for BoSox.

By Dave Knockahomer

May 12, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

Alright….but Foulke is a set up guy! Can we make him into a closer? Reitsma is supposed to be a set up and we see what happened when he tried to close———same for Farnsworth. So, Kentavo, who do you like for a closer? …and by the by…what is this with Time Warner and Liberty buying Court TV? I thought T-W was downsizing or something?

By hk

May 12, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

… don’t know if you’re around today, feel like ‘guessing’ some more, (might want to go get your hat), subject: Liberty, at al ..

. the CEO said that they would hold on to the property for ‘a time’ … I read that as 2-3 years …

.if I’m Liberty, I don’t want my $400mm or so investment to drop during that period, could drop alot if I lose Bobby and John, with the consequential domino effect, could lose up to $50mm on re-sale ..

.to reassure Bobby and John and the fan base, it makes sense to increase spending by $5-10mm/yr, keep everybody happy, hence protect the $50mm …

.as part of reassuring people, I need a local presence, Arthur is the logical candidate, but he has his hands full with the Falcons, etc …

.so, what I work out with Arthur is an arrangement where he becomes a local presence, but with nominal financial participation and minimal management obligations … this gives him a chance to ‘get his feet wet’, see how much distraction there might be with the added obligations …

.write into the contract with Arthur an understanding that he will get rights of first refusal for a purchase, maybe work out a scheme ahead of time for how he could assume management and financial control in phases, spread out over time, if he so chooses ..

.Arthur has long experience managing large complex things, juggling alot of balls, think once he ‘gets his feet wet’, gets a little bit comfortable, he will want to go ahead with the Braves full blast …

.if Bobby and John know all about the above possibilities soon, I think they’ll stay ..

.and Arthur will spend the money, you can take that to the bank ..

Chop Chop ???

By Dave Knockahomer

May 12, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

Thank ya, Chop Chop!!! the bidness end of baseball always leaves me wondering!!!

By Andy

May 12, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

When does ho ram get back? and what are the braves gonna do with Sosa? Langerhans is the left fielder—he seems to be a preasure guy who gets the big hit—however diaz was a great pick up for free basically. I love Lawiff’s glove—but I hope this is the last year with him. Next year with giles gone and La wiff it will be interesting. I like giles—he is not a leadoff hitter—he will just get so much money from the yankees-he gone. Man—with Boras as andruw jones agent—-man—-can you imagine him in a yankee or red sox outfit. Seriously is there anyplayer out there who dominates as defensivly and leading the league in hr’s. No one—he could get….wow. Hey he might turn down 50 million and stay. He could.

By Chop Chop

May 12, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

I’m around, hk.

The scenario you put forth would probably be the absolute best-case for Braves fans. Getting Arthur Blank involved as a minority owner (instead of Ted Turner, who doesn’t really care about owning sports teams anymore) would be a strong step in the eyes of most fans. As you state, Liberty Media would be more likely to spend a little more money if the next owner (Blank) happened to be a part of the initial ownership. Unfortunately, we’re just going to have to wait and see how things turn out. I just have a feeling that this year’s payroll is set in stone and that Schuerholz will have to trade good prospects in order to get the team the help it needs.

By MBATL

May 12, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

DOB, others… when (if ever) does Villareal get a shot at closer? He hasn’t been quite perfect (thought he would strike out more batters), but a 1.76 era, and no runs given up in last 5 appearances.

I would expect Bobby to give any “candidates” a shot before the trading deadline, to see if we can solve the problem from within.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 12, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

this blog is not from noted journalist dob, but from acclaimed journalist guy curtright. that is why there is no mention of music and instead much talk of baseball. now, what has guy curtright said? journalist jimm smith will sum it up for you - the braves must win against these poor teams they are playing in this homestand. now, no-neck parontoe …journalist thinks that those low pitches thrown by the large reliever would cause many strikeouts if thrown to atlanta braves hitters. the etra toe could make a difference.

By hk

May 12, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

… I hate it but I think you’re right …

By MBATL

May 12, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

Thought you retired yesterday. In fact, following is from NFL.COM

“Jimmy Smith cleared his throat, finished his sentence and then bowed his head and started to cry. Smith found himself in another rough spot. But just as he has done so many times before …, he regrouped and moved on without hesitation.

“Smith … who overcame … drug addiction…, abruptly retired to ‘move on to the next phase of my life.’”

By Chop Chop

May 12, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

hk,

The main reason I see it that way is because there is no way for us (or DOB, as he’s stated once…or fifty-seven times) to know when a sale would be approved (specifically before or after the July 31 trade deadline). After the sale is approved by the two parties, then the owners would have to vote on it. Assuming that the owners approved the sale, odds are that Liberty would not take over the team immediately. It just seems that the next offseason looks like the time when we will best be able to gauge what a new ownership’s intentions might be.

By Ron Roberts (for real)

May 12, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

While the payroll may be set in stone, I believe there’s still $6 million (or more) to spend if/when the right situation or deal came our way. That’s the amount the team saved when Chipper re-worked his contract (mostly to try and re-sign Furcal), but the money never went used, if memory serves.

By Chop Chop

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

That $6 million could be used to pick up one or two players’ prorated contracts that add up to $6 million. I don’t know if that will happen or not, but I think it’s a big assumption to make that the Braves actually have $6 million to play with. It’s probably more like $2 or $3 million, if that much.

I’ll tell you what, though: If Chipper and Smoltz reworked their contracts to free up that money and it doesn’t get used and the team fails to make the playoffs, there could very well be some lingering animosity between those two and the organization.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 12, 2006 06:27 PM | Link to this

baseball. not football, baseball. journalist jimmy smith covers baseball for this blog while esteemed journalist dob is either indisposed or grumpy. jimmy smith has no affiliation with football or with any ugandan football player by the name jimmy smith. most especially journalist jimmy smith is not overcoming drug addiction. it is cheese addiction that troubles journalist jimmy smith. cheese is everywhere we go. try ordering lasagna with no cheese, only fruit. now, throwing cheese … matthew says paronto can throw a baseball 96 mph. that is cheese, right? tonight, jimmy smith is hopeful that no-neck paronto will be called upon to throw cheese and sliders and that he will be very successful.

By hk

May 12, 2006 07:00 PM | Link to this

Chop Chup,

… everyone is focussed on what the new owners will do about spending … if I’m Liberty I make that known at the earliest possible date, which as you say, is most likely the offseason, and, as bad as that is, would still be soon enough to save Bobby and John for the long run …

By geechee

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

Arthur Blank won’t be putting up any money as a minority owner. If he does not have control, he won’t be jumping on board.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

hoho,

I imagine my post to you surprised most of those who read it! I’m usually mild mannered and soft spoken.

I’m in no way offended and certainly have respect for any person who has the courage and strength of character to respond sincerely to strong criticism of their behavior. If you’re at all familiar with my posts, you know that “sincerity” wins the prize and “insincerity” is to be despised.

I certainly agree that a Baseball Blog is not an appropriate platform for religious discussion and I think that if you reexamine MGL’s original post, you’ll conclude that it wasn’t his intent to initiate such a discussion or that his remarks were that of a Christian elitist. I sincerely feel that MGL is the one deserving an apology, not I.

I respectively suggest that the fact that apathy and amorality are widespread and “in style” is not a good reason to join the bandwagon. See, “join the bandwagon” is a less offensive pinchhitter for “adopt that faith”.

I certainly agree that there are many book covers and critical reviews that do not properly convey the nature of a book’s content … but, I’m more likely to buy and read the ones with “good, clean-living” reviews than the other kind.

Rest assured that I will speak out against the things I abhor … and up for those in which I believe … and I hope you join me.

By Carolina Lady

May 12, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this

I haven’t seen it mentioned on the blog, but did anyone else see the recent article on the Mets that stated that GLAVINE and the Mets were discussing rewriting his contract to free up money to obtain more pitching? I bounce around so many baseball articles and sources, I can’t recall exactly where I saw it written.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith, My posts of yesterday probably revaled to your egale eye that I found a new 20 foot pole.

When I reported yesterday that I saw the headline indicating that you had retired, I cas careful not to mention the drug addiction.

It was good that you set the record straight with “journalist jimmy smith is not overcoming drug addiction” … though there might be some that interpret a little differently than I.

Edgar’s something else!

By HEAD COACH

May 12, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this

The new ownership is going to have an obvious impact on whether or not current veterans such as Giles , Andruw , Chipper , Smoltz , Hudson and Renteria will stick with this franchise. It’s already obvious with the loss of Furcal , Farnsworth and Franco that new ownership with priority’s other than winning will determine the future and competetiveness of Braves baseball. In my opinion , the direction of this franchise going to be decided in the board room and not on the field.

By hk

May 12, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob, … in good form to begin the evening …

By Bob, journalist jg

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

Hi HK! Maybe not good but certainly more in line with my usual style.

It should please Jimmy that I’m not having cheese tonight … though it is probably my favorite … “Red Rind” hoop and soft, Sharp Cheddar … with saltines.

Though he changed Horses, I still like Stan … hope he does well in DC.

By ssiscribe

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

Jimmy, don’t know if you saw this on the other blog, but a note for you from scribe:

“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.”

Glad you have dispelled any worries of the hippie lettuce playing a role. Me personally, I still have my doubts on the other Jimmy Smith’s rather sudden decision, but this isn’t a Jags blog, and I’ll be writing about them soon enough, so on with baseball.

Also from the last blog, the Wainwright kid, who grew up a Braves fan down here on the SSI and who would’ve been yet another of the “Baby Braves” to crash the major league stage in Atlanta last season, has been lights-out for the Redbirds. Throws four pitches well, has gained a ton of confidence and really has worked himself into favor with Tony La Russa and Dave Duncan. Better darn well bet the Braves wish they had him. That was one move that Trader John flat-out got schooled.

Good start tonight for the ballclub, at least.

By hk

May 12, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

Journalist Bob,

… yeah, I think it was that cheese that knocked you out last night :) … your favorite announcer Bob Rathburn dropped a few ‘absolutely’s awhile ago, afraid it’s contagious …

… that catch by Langy was beautiful …

… I like Stan too, didn’t mind him at all in the booth …

By hk

May 12, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

ssiscribe,

… how did you achieve those dots and the indenting in your post this morning (other blog, 8:25am), that was really nice ! … tried to imitate, no luck …

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this

sscribe: I’m not sure I agree with that assessment.

JS traded Wainwright, King and Marquis for JD Drew and Eli Morrero and maybe another player. JD was a career DL player with the Cards. He came to the Braves and stayed off of the DL the whole season. He got on base in all but 10 games he played in. He hit very well with a great OPS. And he played fabulous defense. Eli Morrero hit over .300 on the season and contributed greatly with is glove and his bat. All this helped the team to another title.

Wainwright went to the Cards and blew out his arm, or shoulder, almost immediately. It has taken him a while to get back in shape. He is good now, I don’t doubt that. King is no longer with the Cards. But the trade paid off well for both sides; for the Braves, immediately. This is what the trade was about: an immediate impact; much like most on this blog are seeking right now, an immediate impact player via a trade… preferably a closer.

For that sort of trade to happen this year, a young talented minor leaguer will have to be traded. We can’t look back on it after 3 years and say That was a bad move on JS’s part. Look how good that minor leaguer we traded is doing now. It’s the nature of the trade. And for that I think the Wainwright trade was good.

JS’s worst trade was Kolb. It netted us absolutely nothing. We lost a 100mph pitcher. We didn’t gain anything in quality from Kolb. And we have since released Obermueller whom we received in return for sending Kolb back to the Brewers.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this

It actually better than expected, watching muted TV … The thing I liked best about Ryan’s Catch was that it looked like he “knew” he had it long before he got there.

I know that they followed the book and gave the outfielder the error … but had the ss really been paying close attention, I don’t think it would have happened. Routine, non-consequential plays are often too casually … like jogging to first.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

HK, the last post shows that I’m back to normal … the fingers aren’t talking to the brain. And, yes, I turned the mute off while Stan was in the booth.

By hk

May 12, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

… oh, just saw a shot of a toe, along with some analysis (think it was Smoltz’s toe) … I defer to jimmy …

By ssiscribe

May 12, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

HK, I think I just double-spaced between graphs and used ellipsis (three dots with one space before and after). By the way, I just had to look up ellipsis for the correct spelling. I don’t use them often; I don’t think I’ve ever wrote the word before, LOL.

Tennessee Paul, you make a very, very valid point on immediate contribution vs. contribution down the road. It’s real easy to look back and dismiss a move two or three years down the road, but I didn’t like it the day it went down.

Any local bias aside for the Wainwright kid (who, for what it’s worth, is a prince of a guy and is extremely well respected in this part of the world), I didn’t like the deal at the time because, even though JD and Eli both would go on to have good years in 2004 (and JD, remarkably, stayed healthy), JD was a free agent and I didn’t think the Braves could re-sign him, especially after he stayed healthy and put up good numbers.

Marquis needed to go; too stubborn for Leo’s taste. I really liked King. Good lefty, good arm, had a good season with the Braves in 03, then helped pitch the Lou into the World Series in 2004 (ERA was something like 2.61) and had another good year for them last season. He’s doing well with the Rox so far this year, last time I checked.

Wainwright hurt his right elbow in June 2004 after 12 starts at Triple-A Memphis, ending his season. He came back to lead the PCL in innings pitched and was second in Ks last season, and pitched twice for the Cards out of the bullpen in September. He had a great spring this year, after a great spring last year, and made the club. So far, dude’s been lights out, which is more than we can say of just about everybody in the Braves’ pen.

It’s easy to look back and second guess, but again, I didn’t like the trade the Saturday afternoon in December 2003 it was announced (I, ironically, was sitting in my car, in traffic, on the Downtown Connector, looking at The Ted, when I heard the deal announced on 750; my cell phone then proceeded to explode). Wainwright’s 6-foot-7, throws 94, has four pitches and so far has shown great control. He’d definitely would help out in the pen this season. Of course, were he with the Braves, it very well could’ve been him pitching at Fenway last May, instead of Kyle Davies.

I agree that the nature of a trade is giving up something to get something. I just thought, and still do think, the Braves gave up too much in the Wainwright-Marquis-King for Drew-Marrero deal. However, it goes without saying that Kolb was the worst deal since Len Barker for Brett Butler, Brook Jacoby and (who out there remembers this guy?) Rick Behenna, a promising pitcher who blew out his shoulder (I think it was his shoulder; that was 23 years ago).

And, you’re right. There will be a deal (or so the masses hope) for a closer sometime in the next two months, and as I’ve aleady said a couple of times, be ready to get upset because to fix the pen, the Braves are going to have to give up somebody good.

Gotta run get some stuff done. Take care.

By hk

May 12, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

… further thought, guess I should report what I thought I saw … large bulbous enclosure on toe of right shoe, looked like 2” high … Rathbun saying something about how alot of guys going to that for some very important reason (didn’t catch what it was) …

… Smoltz 86 pitches through 7, not too shabby ..

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

ssiscribe, the only thing wrong with your post is reminding me that it was 23 years ago when that trade was made and my son ws entering college and trying to find a parttime job … he’s still loking for a job.

By Jason

May 12, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Come on now…who here likes burritos?

By hk

May 12, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

… Smoltz era from 3.72 to 3.44 … team era from 4.41 to 4.34 (7th in league), BA from .264 to .265 (7th, leader at .276)

By hk

May 12, 2006 10:05 PM | Link to this

… all Braves regulars at or above the Mendoza (finally !) …

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this

hk, say hi to Jason … I think he’s lonely and like Tex-Mex.

I thought the Jon’s era strated in 1988 and is still going strong … he’ll be 39 on Monday … Daddy was 39 for 20 years, I think he was trying to break Jack’s record.

Those numbers are pretty good, considering where they’ve been.

Tell me, how many Posts there have been since 7:00 PM.

By hk

May 12, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

… now Bob, if I didn’t know you better I’d think you were pulling my leg :)

Hi Jason …

By Counting

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

How many posts since 7:00 pm?

Jason - 1 Geechee - 1 Carolina Lady - 1 Head Coach - 1 Tennesee Paul - 1 SSI Scribe - 2 Bob - 7 HK - 8

By hk

May 12, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Counting,

… gee, that’s a little embarrassing :) … interesting to see who posts and who doesn’t post when we win (I guess that makes us fair weather fans) …

By MGL

May 12, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Bob, journalist jg, - MGL is quite humbled by your support, and also by hoho’s frustrations. Will not bring up players faith again - in retrospect, doesn’t belong here.

Esteemed journalist jimmy smith - While watching esteemed second baseman Marcus Giles last night, I noticed that his toes are pionted almosed directly to first base. This might be the biggest toe problem of the Braves. Toes pointed to first yeild many foul balls. Problem might be balls of feet. If balls of feet are mis-aligned, balls off bat will not be properly aligned. Perhaps esteemed journalist could do some investigtive reporting on this potential problem and report back to this most significant blog

By hk

May 12, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

MGL,

… on the contrary, it does belong, any time, any place …

By Carolina Lady

May 12, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

Just checking by before bedtime -

Remember way back - don’t even remember the years - Torre was managing - and TBS produced an hour-long post season program about the braves’ year? Then the next year, they produced another I think was called “A Tale of Two Seasons”?

I would sure love to see a rerun of that. As fond of reruns as is TBS, it shouldn’t be a problem for them!

Wish similar programs would be made. Don’t know what made me think of that - a long day + too much yard work = loopy brain! :-)

By Shawn B

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

Guy, you are a master at stating the obvious aren’t you. How about from now on we just go without the daily blog when DOB isn’t available to write it. I haven’t read an interesting blog written by you yet. Last week it was all about how important a series the games in New York were (somewhat true, but it’s freakin MAY!!) and of course they go out and lose two out of three. So by your standards of last week the Braves should be finished since thy didn’t get the big weekend they needed at Shea. If DOB needs a day off from blogging, let’s just give the blog a day off.

By MGL

May 12, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

hk - Thank you, but I don’t want to spoil the fun of this blog!! As I said yesterday. I was just trying to describe the personality of someone who appears to be an outstanding young man.

By Bob, journalist jg

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

What did you really think of John’s performance? My read is that had he’d been on tonight, you might have seen a perfect game.

I know that Edgar has been caught stealing only once, but the one thing about him that hasen’t imporessed me is his speed. Edgar’s first inning hitting is alot like my Sister In-Law’s picks for the first race … hard to bet against.

HK, I would never, ever do something devious liks that … I’m always direct, straightforward, serious, and sincere … I almost forgot … I do have some very valuable jewelry that has been in the Family for generations but … I’m hard up at the moment and have to let them go for just pennies on the dollar. Now I’m sure that you’ll agree that one shouldn’t trust people that don’t trust others … so, if you’ll just give me a token $100 to show your good faith, I’ll trust you and go out to the car and get the stuff so that you can see how good of a deal this really is. Thanks, Don’t go away, I’ll be right back!

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Sometimes work is a sacrifice. I missed this whole game tonight. I had to catch up by reading all the GameDay info… I was pleased to see Smoltz get another CG and only 103 pitches. I don’t think the innings are going to matter as much if he isn’t throwing a lot of pitches. (If he throws complete games with 100 or less pitches how could it?) I sure hope he holds up the whole season though.

The Mets are getting spanked tonight. Jose Lima is really awful. He looks, fittingly, like a clown now with his yellow hair. I’m glad he’s in the rotation. He’s a step back from Zambrano and Zambrano is terrible.

Everyone continued their hitting streaks. Francoeur is really coming around. I’m glad he has. Once Andruw pulls out of his little “slump” this team will really start tearing it up.

It’s a little hard to get too excited about these games. I expect the Braves to win because the opponent is lacking. It makes it tough to figure out if our hitters are really on track or if the opposing pitcher is just terrible. But I am stoked to see some W’s up there. We need a bunch more. A sweep of the Nats would be nice and then a sweep of the Marlins. Is that asking too much?

By hk

May 12, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

MGL,

… the other day, (on McCann blog) Matthew picked up on Jeff Franceour’s wearing Joshua 1:9 wristbands on Sunday, said it was one of his favorite verses … almost immediately jimmy came back and said Matthew had good values and he would like him to become little seal’s teacher …

… now that is important, good, wholesome, and genuine fun …

By HEAD COACH

May 12, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this

Marquis , Wainwright and king for J.D. Drew and Eli Marrero ….. hmmmmm. Five players , how many are still in Atlanta 0 , how many are still in St. Louis 2.Wainwright and Marquis are both pitchers , both 1st rounders and everytime they step on the mound this trade gets a little worse. As bad as the Kolb trade was , this one will eventually eclipse it.

By hk

May 12, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

Bob, … I’d like to oblige, but am a lttle strapped since that downpayment I gave you last week on the Brooklyn bridge :)

By Bob, journalist jg

May 12, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this

How’s The Lady?

Until 2005, I liked just about everything the TBS put on … except its preoccupation with multiple commerical piggybacks every 10 minutes … I think that they could spread a 60 minute B western over two hours.

I remember the second of those but not the first … though I probably saw it.

Thanks again for your “babe” remarks … I know that it was long as too many of mine are … but I his consistency was the most remarkable thing of all.

Remember the old cartoon caption, “everybody has to be somewhere” … so as a last resort, you might try just asking the crows nicely to please go somewhere else.

By Carolina Lady

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

Hi, Bob!

I’m well, thank you! Just did too many things today and am fair worn out! My pillow calls!

I think I am actually winning the War of the Crows (the birds, not the tribe…)! I just don’t see as many of them as I did and the songbirds seem to be back in their previous numbers and are apparently as happy as ever now that the intruders have been (mostly) repelled. Wow!

Only saw a bit of the game tonight. John Smoltz is now my official Hero! I’ve always had the greatest respect for him, but now he has attained Hero status!

LOL! I feel as if I’m climbing this uphill battle with the team! It actually tires me out! :-)))))

I’m off to sleep now. The sun comes up early! Hope you have a good night’s rest, my friend!

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this

sscribe: Yes, I wasn’t “pleased” with the trade when I heard of it because Wainwright was included. But I was pleased when I saw Wainwright get injured. Devious, I know, but I can’t deny it.

Our minor leagues are really stocked right now. I think it will be possible for us to trade some guys and not miss them. There appears to be a lot, a huge amount, of really good players down there and I can’t help but think some of them are over achieving. I just hope our front office knows which ones they are and is able to swing a deal with them.

I love this line up! Looking back over the results, I think it’s the way to go. The 3-4-5 spots drew 5 walks! Combined they were 4 for 6. That’s a .667 average and a .727 OBP. Francoeur came up with a lot of guys on… He knocked in 3, but still left 6. That would have been a helluva night had he got them all. LaRoche’s K have as big of an impact down in the 7th spot. This is good stuff.

I love McCann! I was wondering, before the season, how it was going to work with Salty. There was so much talk about how good Salty is, but right now I wouldn’t trade McCann for anything. I can’t imagine McCann doing this the whole year, that just seems so unreal. I guess it could happen. I hope it does happen and continues for his whole career. That would make Salty a prime guy for a move to first base, which would make for a great team.

Go Braves!

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

I don’t get to hear the FOX announcers, but I do have to listen to this Angles announcers and I can’t imagine anyone as bad as these guys. They are so over the top pro Angle it’s disgusting.
You know… another sellout crowd here tonight, Fiz… It’s because the Angles are the best organization in baseball.
The Angles have the best 3-4 hitters in the majors. You could point to Boston with Ramirez and Ortiz, but Anderson and Super Vlad are just more disciplined and productive.

I get to compare these clowns to Vin Skully on a daily basis, and Vin just blows them out of the water. He’s a Dodger fan, but he doesn’t sugar coat it. If the Dodgers are stinking up the place, he doesn’t beat around the bush. He doesn’t blast the players either. He manages to just lay it out there in a classy manor. These Angles announcers fail miserably at almost every step of the way.

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

Kolb came close to blowing it tonight. I was stuck… do I cheer for Kolb to screw it up with the Brewers just out of spite, or do I cheer for Kolb to get his act together so the Brewers can sink the Mets? Luckily, Yost yanked him and I didn’t have to decide. Mets Lost

By Jason

May 13, 2006 12:47 AM | Link to this

so who loves Burritos?

By hk

May 13, 2006 01:31 AM | Link to this

Jason,

… I love them, but they don’t love me (old geezer, lower level 12 hrs later) …

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

MGL, Now that it’s late, I can write a post at my leisure.

Just call me Bob, I may go back to just plain Bob anyway … since being so honored by Jimmy, I’ve in over my head too many time for one who can’t swim.

Your words are thoughtful and appreciated … but don’t be humbled by my support. Supporting someone for whom good values are obviously important is easy, natural and important to do. To fail to do that would be to support apathy, amorality, and those who would villify or defame you.

Actually, I wouldn’t be surprised to find myself supporting HoHo in the future. It took more courage for him to directly respond to my criticism than it took me to criticize … and I hope I mad it clear that it was his behaviour which I found unacceptable.

I strongly agree that that this is not a proper forum for religious discussion or debate … but as one often villified fellow once said “to thine own self be true!”

When I get in the most trouble is usually when I fail to say what I feel … it always catches up with me … just like lies … because I can’t remember what I’ve said or haven’t said. When I tell the truth and say what I feel … I don’t have to remember! However, I always I try to always try to do it nicely, probably because I’m smaller than Giles … and don’t like pain … but also because if you’re true to yourself and respect others … most of the time they’ll return the favor.

Check that out … I don’t find what I’ve just said offensive … nothing of a religious nature there … except maybe everything.

Please don’t stop with your refreshing comments … always say what you feel … with your natural style and grace!

Trust me when again say that you didn’t inject religious issues into the discussion. I’m reminded that at least one of the all time Atlanta Brave fan favorites was a Mormon … his religious values were often discussed and commended in the press and in the Media … and he, himself, sometimes referrenced his strong faith and church activities.

Expressing admiration of someone for their faith and/or their values has nothing to do with religion … but it does say something about you!

Thankfully, when Will arrives in Atlanta, we’ll have a good pitcher … and he’ll find a lot of new teammates that share his values.

By TennesseePaul

May 13, 2006 05:29 AM | Link to this

Here’s one for you guys… I can’t believe nobody is on here at this hour. Seriously, are we Braves fans or what?

GO BRAVES!!!

By TennesseePaul

May 13, 2006 05:34 AM | Link to this

Sheesh! Now that I’m completely faded and reading this I really screwed that up…

LaRoche’s Ks don’t have as big of an impact down in the seventh spot.

Yeah, that’s right. I’m up at the wee hours. But the bars are now closed and sports center has repeated about 12 times… so here I am… talking to myself. I’m out.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 05:46 AM | Link to this

My Lady, I’m envious of your energy … I look back on my day, see that I’ve done virtually nothing … and still am tired!

Glad to see you’re winning the battle … shows what due diligence, a few BBs and some prayer can do!

For an “old” man, our hero is doing pretty good … and tonight, those who wanted him to close games got their wish!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 05:49 AM | Link to this

Hi paul! Some of us watch old movies instead of ESPN … or listen to archives of the games on MLB.com

By JasonInMaine

May 13, 2006 07:49 AM | Link to this

Lidge piteched the 7th last night for the Astros, maybe we can snag him. I doubt it as the Astros will be in the race and are trying to entice Rocket back, but I would take Lidge even if he has struggled!

By ssiscribe

May 13, 2006 07:52 AM | Link to this

OK, y’all, on four hours of sleep, and back up at it. But, that’s what happens when you’ve got a day off and two little ones who haven’t seen nearly enough of you lately.

Certainly, I’m not complaining.

Smoltz last night was super, yet again. This guy saves the Braves’ bacon, time and time again. I worry that, like last year, he will be burned out by the time the ballclub really needs him, come September and October.

Is there any doubt that John Smoltz will someday end up in the Hall of Fame? A Cy Young Award. A 20-game winner. Three consecutive 40-save seasons. And one of those guys you want on the mound when the season’s hanging in the balance. I’ve always loved his passion and emotion.

And, to think, all the Braves had to do to get him was trade vet Doyle Alexander to the Tigers, who needed the sage arm in the heat of the 1987 AL East race. Reverting back to the earlier discussion last night/this morning, that’s a trade that definitely paid dividends for the Braves as time progressed.

Hopefully, the rest of the staff (that means you, Jorge Sosa) will look at what the veteran arm with a ton of miles has done and take a hint.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 13, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith is not with the team today so this journalist will have to observe marcus giles’ toe alignment from the tv. journalist does note that giles’ bat seems to be aligned with the stars. now, transition … jimmy smith has not been well since attempting transition in a previous blog. transition is better left to noted scribe. scribe writes much like jimmy smith wishes to write. still, jimmy smith may attempt transition again in a future post. now, cheese … bob is encouraged to leave the cheese on the table (or in the jar as appropriate). cheese can be detrimental to daily habits (this is a family blog - baby seal is reading). now, john smoltz … pitcher is hero to many but bobby must not let him hurt arm. still, if you were smoltz would you want to come out and let this pen try to hold a lead? it’s already cost him twice this year. eight times last year, right? journalist is not sure that the numbers are correct. journalist needs coffee. now, seal and crows … baby seal is hopeful of an invitation to carolina and has been chasing crows from journalist’s property since tuesday. preparation makes perfect as seal flippers propel seal toward cros at unbelievable speed. unfortunate incident with mailman will be discussed in a later post. now, baseball and latest “p” player on team, no-neck paronto … very big player is not from peru as previously suggested - player is from new hampshire. new hamshire is granite state. now georgia has two monoliths of granite. now, blog … journalist must be away or a time but hopes to return soon.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this

It’s all on Sosa tonight. The offense is coming around. McCann is simply a stud. The Renteria trade is making a lot of people eat crow. I remember being told how big of an idiot I was for supporting this trade. Am I such an idiot now. Some places don’t work well for guys and Boston just didn’t work well for Renteria. Francoeur is showing why he is “The Natural”. This kid heard all the criticism and all the cries for him to be sent back to Richmond and all he has done is stuck with it and starting to turn his season around. That’s not a big surprise to me! Chipper and Andruw are professionals and will get it going. Now, to the bad. I’m still not happy with Giles and LaRoche needs to be a defensive replacement and we need a good hitting 1B. The only sad thing is that the Braves could go on a tear against the NL’s worst and really not make up any ground. The Mets and Phillies are still hot and that is why we had to take care of buisness against them when it counted. But, its only mid-May and there is a long way to go. Don’t think that is true? Check back with me in the beginning of September and see if the Rockies and Rangers are still atop their division and if the Braves are lagging under .500.

By Penn

May 13, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

My post from previous blog.

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.

I’d like to add this comment. Odalis Perez has lost his starting job and been sent to the Dodger pen. His attitude, his love of good food and his lack of control (of all kinds) have finally caught up with him. JS was not wrong in moving him.

But I still lament the day he traded Wainwright. I didn’t like it then and I don’t like it now.

By cd

May 13, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Looks like Will Startup is pitching lights out: 3-0 with 0.95 era, 3 saves and 23 Ks in 19 innings of work. Any chatter about him moving to Richmond soon? I know nobody wants to hurt the guy by moving him up too soon, but…

Speaking of, anybody know how Devine is doing in his recovery?

By Penn

May 13, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this

I was right in there with the rest of you in calling for Francoeur to be benched or sent to Richmond. Here is another reason Bobby Cox is managing the team and not us.

Why Bobby loves Francoeur:

Rankings on team:

AB —- 1st HR —- 2nd Hits - 2nd RBI — 2nd TB —- 2nd SO —- Tied for 3rd and 4th

Believe it or not both Andruw (29) and LaRoche (34) lead him in K’s but Langerhans is also tied with Frenchy with 28.

Not bad for a free swinger.

By Penn

May 13, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

I just heard Devine was in Florida trying to work out some “serious” kinks, whatever that means.

I want to see if I can work through this blog’s propensity for changing things around.

AB—1st,

HR—2nd,

Hits-2nd,

RBI—2nd,

TB-2nd,

SO-Tied for 3rd and 4th

By Joe Roman

May 13, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

All the talk of trades and Glavine re-structuring his contract are predicated on the notion that teams have all their players sitting on shelves like in a supermarket with their bags packed. For about the hundredth time, folks, THIS IS MID-MAY!!! Nobody, not even Pittsburgh or Kansas City is going to give away the farm to help anyone else. I know the speculation is fun, but it’s pretty pointless right now. Remember, second-guessing Bobby is kind of fun too.

By Paul Hamilton

May 13, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman is right, going to have to wait awhile. Why are people worried about what the mets and glavine are doing anyways?? They are going to have a hard time trading for a good pitcher with no big prospects. Now they may have the money to throw at BZ after the season, but that is a long time from now. I just hope the Bravos don’t give up a top prospect for another 3 month blunder. JS, if you can’t get a leadoff man or a good pitcher, don’t waste your time.

By Penn

May 13, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

The game was nothing pretty to watch. Dodgers shortstop Rafael Furcal, appearing tentative on every ball hit his way, continued his throwing malaise by committing two more throwing errors (he has nine after only 15 last year) on routine plays and nearly a third.

This appeared in a write-up on the Dodger win over S.F. last nite.

Renteria has made 4 errors and is hitting .345 while Furcal has made 9 errors and is hitting .235.

By Chop Chop

May 13, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

I’m sure Furcal will get it figured out at the plate soon enough. He started out very slowly last year as well. I’m just glad Renteria is hitting so well. He’s a much better situational hitter than Furcal will ever be and, while he probably won’t be hitting .340 all year, he should hit for a higher average than Furcal. The biggest asset Furcal has over Renteria is his arm strength and range in the field. Furcal’s defense last year was spectacular (for a change) and was certainly better than Renteria’s so far this year, but I don’t think Furcal will ever be consistent enough to keep his defense at a Gold Glove-caliber level for any considerable period of time. The Dodgers overpaid for Furcal in the hopes that he would put up his normal offensive numbers AND play 2005-level defense for three years. They were banking on him not having trouble adjusting to playing for a new team, not raiding liquor cabinets (one cheapshot), etc. The Braves wanted to keep Furcal, but I have a feeling that Schuerholz didn’t want to overpay a guy who hasn’t exactly been consistent in the field.

By Rob

May 13, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

DOB -

What is it with Thomson? He had yet another short outing. He’s yet to get through the 7th this year. Maybe we should look at trying to pick up a starter and let Thomson close. I tend to think he’d be pretty solid there. If we could get someone like Bronson Arroyo once the Reds fade (remember, he can demand a trade having been traded during a multi-year deal), then we could definitely move Thomson to the pen.

Or heck, just to step outside the box for a moment, Kyle Davies’ best stuff is when he gets aggressive and nasty. Sounds like a closer to me.

By MBATL

May 13, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

Penn, congrats and good-for-you on acknowledging Francouer’s turnaround. I’m in the minority that supported Frenchy (and Bobby’s patience) throughout his struggles; but on the other hand, I never thought McCann would be the solid player he’s turned out to be, and wanted us to keep …oh, what’s his name… Estrada!

I suspect we’ll continue to have frustrations with Francouer, just like we did with Andruw for so many years - holes in the swing, going after bad pitches. God, this city was ready to dump AJ three years ago.

It’s taken AJ the better part of a decade to harness his considerable talent, and it’ll probably be the same with Frenchy, but to my mind, we should be patient as long as he shows such great promise.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 06:08 PM | Link to this

MBATL, well written … nothing wrong with admitting mistakes and taking credit when credit is due.

I couldn’t agree more about McCann … reflecting, I think that I probably had more reservations about him than my comments showed … but, he sure has good “study habits” and his confidence and leadership continue to gain momentum.

It’s almost impossible not to like and pull for Frenchy … just too many wonderful attributes … from innocence, boyish enthusiasm, and wonderful smile … to unbelievable natural talent in the field and at the plate.

But “stubborn as a mule” and “more sizzle than steak” … to “lost at the plate” and “needs more seasoning” replaced some of those during his early season struggles.

I think that there were many of us that believe that he will realize much of his potential and will acheive superstar status … that favored taking some action other than leaving him in the middle of the lineup while he fought his demons.

But we’re sometimes to quick to judge Bobby’s decisions as being blind faith when they’re actually based on what he thinks is best for the team and the players affected by the decision … in other words, he wouldn’t do if he didn’t think it was the thing to do … just like I think he usually doesn’t get thrown of a game unless he has a reason.

Along those same lines, I wouldn’t want to be the one making the decisions confronting him when Kelly Johnson returns.

Currently, I’m losing confidence in Mr. LaRoche’s son Adam, especially at the plate … but occasionally, he reminds me of why he’s here.

By MBATL

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

Bob jjg, thanks. Seems to me it’s between KJ and Diaz, when KJ is ready to play. Langerhans pretty much beat KJ out last year for the LF spot. I really don’t think any of the 3 are stars in the making, so it’s a matter of “who can help us this year?”.

Agree on LaRoche. I think he’s capable of being a .280/25/80 type of guy, and he DOES field his position well. But it gets harder with every strikeout to keep the faith.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

MBATL, First inning Edgar did it again!
I think I’d give Sosa an personal trainer … get rid of the baloon, work on his “control” … I’d probably just have him let it fly … “dowd the middle” and his stuff do the rest … then let him “close”.

Andruw looks good at the plate again!

My browser’s acting up … how many posts since 3:00?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this

The “kid” didn’t try to pull that one!

By David O'Brien

May 13, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

So I’m curious, how many of you thought Brad Lidge would lose his closer job before Chris Reitsma lost his?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this

About twice as many as the number that thought at the beginning of the 1991 season … that Bobby would still be managing the Braves in 2006.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

Okay, now its clear Sosa can no longer start. I don’t care what Horacio did in his rehab start. Bring him off the disabled list immediatedly. Put Sosa in the closer role and Reitsma anywhere but closer. All he has to do is hold this lead at 2 runs and he is doing his best to blow it.

By hk

May 13, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

Frenchty, Frenchy, Frenchy !!!!!!!!!

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

Francoeur is simply the MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

I have a question to everyone. Should Frenchy still be sent to Triple A to learn how to be patient?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 13, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

HK, you liked that … huh?

By ssiscribe

May 13, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

Now that’s the way to end a game.

Nice shot, Frenchy. I’d say the kid now is OK. He leads the NL with RBIs this month, and the biggest hit of his young career.

Dude just smoked that one. Gotta know the Mets are hating that one.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

After this game tonight could it be any clearer that McCann and Francoeur are the future and maybe the present of this team.

By MrC

May 13, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

AWESOME!!!!!

By hk

May 13, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this

Bob, … talk about a ‘Frank Meriwell’ finish !!! … he now has 66 rbi vs Andruw’s 70 …

By Del

May 13, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

HOT DAMN ! ! !

By ssiscribe

May 13, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

Couple of quick notes before I hit the hay, knowing that my better half will want to sleep in come morning, and my little ones will be ready to roll before the sun comes up.

First of all, remember the walk-off jobbie Mondesi hit on a Saturday night early last year against the Cards? I think the Braves’ right fielder this time hitting the game-winning homer has a longer shelf life.

Second, remember the game last year where the Nats threw the ball away with two outs in the top of the ninth in the rain at RFK? The Braves had struggled to that point, but ran off seven of nine after stealing that one. This one makes it five out of six for a team that’s starting to find itself, I believe.

First win in a game the ballclub’s trailed after eight innings all season long. Frenchy’s had a ton of big hits in his life, but none of them probably produced the thrill of seeing that ball jump off his bat tonight with the game hanging in the balance for his hometown team.

Kudos to him for laying off that first pitch, too. Patience isn’t his game, but selectiveness has started to creep in, ever so slightly, the past three weeks. Consequently, he’s left the Mendoza line behind.

Enjoy the win, gang. Biggest thrill on the roller coaster to this point. And a happy Mom’s day to all from the coast. Later.

By ssiscribe

May 13, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

And one last write-thru before I’m through:

Who gets the win tonight? Chris Reitsma, who gave up a drive to the wall but otherwise looked like he had good command of his stuff. Maybe this jump-starts him, too.

One only can hope. Enough with the posts; feel like I’m filing on deadline somewhere, ha ha!

As the one and only Furman says, selah.

By MBATL

May 13, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

Frenchy’s been showing much more patience for the last 3 weeks… not a lot of walks (well, one, actually) but going deeper into the count. GREAT to see him come through tonight. All of a sudden, he’s among the league leaders in RBI.

The thrill aside, this MUST have been the last straw for Sosa as a starter, right? And I asked earlier, will ask again: why not give Villareal a shot to close?

Great win!

By hk

May 13, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

… no no, that was total bases, I meant 31 RBI vs Andruw’s 35 … at that rate Frenchy will have 143 rbi, 88 runs, and 32 Homers for the season …

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

I think Frenchy is learnig to keep his aggressiveness but learn some selectivity. He is realizing to make the pitcher throw him what HE wants to hit. I still say that the WBC cost him so precious spring training at bats and that he needed to be there to learn how to adjust to the pitchers’ adjustments to him. We are seeing why this kid is special. But, I think that maybe even more special than Jeff is McCann. This kid is the real deal. He knows the game and is the perfect team player. While Sutton usually rambles about nothing he was right about the way McCann ran the bases after the homer. He ran to the dugout and was happy he helped his team. He calls great games and makes his teamates better. You know who he actually reminds me of? Jorge Posada. As much as Derek Jeter gets credit for being the Yankees soul, the truth is Posada is the glue. He goes out does his job and is fine with staying in the background. But, when they need THAT big hit he always seems to be there. That’s Brian McCann. If Jurries, Langerhans, Betemit, and Davies can be as good as advertised this team has a very bright future. Let’s hope it turns out to be true.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 13, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I couldn’t agree more. Not to beat a dead horse, but I can’t say enough about Francoeur and McCann. One more thing that is so impressive to me about them and Langerhans and Davies. Their maturity is so great. Lets not fool ourselves. We need each and every one of these guys to do well for us to even think about a 15th straight title. They know this. The pressure is enormous. But, they seem to just take it in stride. While everyone was worrying about Frenchy, he knew he would turn it around. McCann goes out each and every game and lays it on the line. You have to appreciate that.

By Miles

May 13, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this

The swagger is back!!!!

By LeTwan Anthony

May 13, 2006 10:55 PM | Link to this

Pie for McCann and pie for Francoeur! Mama went right to the kitchen after the game. Now, LeTwan will smell those pies cooking and won’t be able to go to sleep. Of course, it will be hard to sleep anyhow after that exciting game. LeTwan can’ decide which one means the most to the team - McCann or Francoeur.

By hk

May 13, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

… team batting average from .266 (7th in league) to .269 (5th, leader at .274) …

… … … team era 4.34 (6th) to 4.36 (6th)

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

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

LaTwan, I think Momma needs to bake each of those boys at sweet potatoe pie. McCann is the heart of the team. Francoeur will be our Puljos. Watch and see!

By old timer

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

Pie in the face for Sosa. But who do we have to replace him? How hurt is James, and is he ready anyway? Gotta find a starter somewhere. And a finisher.

By Joe Roman

May 13, 2006 11:24 PM | Link to this

You’ve gotta wonder if maybe Sosa has Nuke laLouche (The Bull Durham movie) disease. Remember? “A million dollar arm and ten cent head”? If you watch closely and imagine superimposing one snapshot of Sosa over another, I doubt any two deliveries are alike. It may not sound like that big of a thing, but anyone who’s ever pitched above Little League knows what I’m talking about. If you don’t have a consistent motion, I don’t care if you’ve got the best stuff in the world, hitters will figure you out. Horacio needs to come through, or we’ve got a hole in the rotation.

By geechee

May 14, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this

Just over a week ago I was arguing with people in here who were calling Bobby an idiot for not sending Francoeur to Richmond. This is why some of you should just let Bobby run the team instead of acting like you know everything about running a baseball team.

By Chop Chop

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

Francoeur will walk some this year. I figure he’ll probably get 20 or 30 of them. I’m just glad the guy finally calmed down a little at the plate. It does you and your team no good to be pounding first-pitch grounders and choppers to third base 70% of the time and striking out 15% of it. Francoeur started exhibiting just a little patience (which led to him hitting the ball the other way) and that has really helped him get going.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

Great win, thrilling finish … I said a few days back that what we needed was a couple of successful combacks to seal the deal. It’s only one game … but some games impact a teams for a long time and this win may be long remembered as being one of those!

Frenchy’s swing looked a as good as the one that prompted my “400” comments earler in the week … can’t remember who commented that my comments were dumb … but if he continues to swing like that, I’ll start to take myself seriously.

Before leaving Frenchy … the throw to 3rd tonight was as good as it gets!

I think I would actually prefer scoring 10 runs in the first inning of each game for the rest of the season … those expections may be unrealistic … but, 5 in the ninth works almost as well … take ‘em anyway you can get ‘em.

Other good news … two of three from the bench!

Sosa may have started his last game for the 2006 Braves … but, if not … maybe Bobby should tell him before the game “It’s your game to win or lose kid … no matter what happens, you’re my pitcher tonight! Of course, Jorge may not understand him.

By David O'Brien

May 14, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this

Tremendous night. One of those where, as a beat guy, you’re glad you were there, even though it required total rewrite in a span of six minutes after the Francoeur homer. I had my story ready to send, all about Sosa sucking and the like, when McCann hit that homer. Still only minor changes and ready to send after Andruw struck out.

But the last time I saw such a young player with a penchant for coming through in the clutch, it was Edgar Renteria when he broke in with the Marlins and hit the Game 7-winning hit in extra innings to win the 1997 World Series.

Anyway, Frenchy has “it.” And that’s rare.

And as someone pointed out, it’s why none of us know one tiny fraction of the baseball that Bobby Cox knows, and why any of us who even hinted at or suggested he send down Francoeur a couple weeks ago look pretty silly about now.

This night could be a really, really big one for the Braves. Sort of like that late rally at Baltimore a couple of years ago, that turned around that early season.

We’ll see.

By Chop Chop

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

Well, Bobby’s been right a lot more often than he’s been wrong, but Francoeur’s struggles had to give Schuerholz (if not the ever-optimistic Cox) cause for some concern. If Francoeur hadn’t snapped out of it, he’d be in a platoon or in Richmond right now.

By HEAD COACH

May 14, 2006 12:46 AM | Link to this

Francoeur turned another one run loss into a great pick me up for the team. Maybe this is the confidence moment they needed. All in all , we picked up nothing in the standings , the Muts and Phillies both won. Reitsma got a win , maybe he should be a starter , lol. Thomson has to bring the broom tomorrow and we still have no closer or leadoff hitter. I dont want to rain on the parade but this game just means this team shouldnt need a grand slam in the last at bat to get a win. Its fun as hell and a great confidense builder so enjoy the moment , tomorrow we need a sweep just to keep up with the Muts and red hot Phillies.

By PHILBILL

May 14, 2006 02:05 AM | Link to this

I am interested in seeing where the Braves will be in a week of playing the dregs in the division. I am a Phillies Phan and I see the Braves sneaking up on .500. I do believe that the Phils could sweep the Reds today and take 2 of 3 from the overated Brew Crew. I believe that the Mets will be hard pressed and will win only 2 games from the next two series - St. Louis and NYY. We’ll see how it pans out.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 02:53 AM | Link to this

HeadCoach,

I think yours is a very good post … but here is where my mind went with it … during the first reading.

I don’t know that I disagree with you but I’m not really sure what “… this game just means this team shouldn’t need a grand slam in the last at bat to get a win” means.

Mine is an implied question and not intended to quibble over the technical point that a solid single probably would have done the job.

Based on the words, you seem to be saying that this game only shows that “this team”, at the very least, is too good to be behind by three or more runs when we come to our last turn at bat.

That may be true but I don’t know how “this game” shows that. I think it does show that “it ain’t over till it’s over” for this team … and we finally have some supporting evidence.

Regardless, if they’re that good without a closer or leadoff hitter … then they should really be something special, if and when those deficiencies are eliminated.

It’s a reach for me to conclude that they’re that good … but this game convinced me that they could be.

As an aside, the game may have also showed that the Nats have closer problems too.

That’s where my mind went …

By old timer

May 14, 2006 07:13 AM | Link to this

Cox is a hall of famer, period. His patience is why the team has won for so many years. He is always going to take heat because having only one world title to show for all his success. I don’t want to get into all that again, but the notion that he can’t manage in a short series is ridiculous. Sometimes, though, I wonder if Bobby is being patient or just has no other options. I gotta think he’d like to replace Sosa and Reitsma. Lidge’s struggles this year underscore the difficulty in choosing a closer. Look back over the records and you will see lots of guys who had a few good years closing out games and then flamed out. It makes it hard to give up a lot in a trade for a closer or sign one to a big-money, long-term deal.

By Eric

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

We need to put Villareal at the closer spot.

By KonaSaint

May 14, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

What do u guys/gals think about playing Betemit more at 2nd base. See how he performs and maybe we can trade Giles.

By Carroll

May 14, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

DOB: any chance that Kelly Johnson may be given a shot at 1st base when he gets healthy? I would love that move. He could also bat leadoff and solve that dilemma since he’s so patient and disciplined at the plate and has decent speed.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

It’s never good to reach conclusions without adequate information … but, since the FOX move to replace the Braves Broadcasters on Turner South, it seems that the TBS crew have been mechanical and flat … like folks working their 2 week’s notice.

Maybe it’s just my overactive imagination … like seeing Adam in today’s lineup … oops.

By hk

May 14, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

… way to go, Pinky !!! … (hope that doesn’t throw him off-stride on the mound next inning)

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

Coach, I don’t think we need to be “scoreboard watching” this early. We just need to win ballgames. Demanding a sweep of ANY team is a bit much, in my opinion. We just need to win series… 2 of 3, 3 of 4… anything beyond that is gravy. If we do that, we’ll pick up a game a week or so, and by July be right there.

Bob, Sutton had me longing for Torborg and Rathbun last night.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

MBATL, HK

Got to run, do something to get them started while I’m gone …

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

More than strikeouts, THAT’S the kind of play Adam can’t afford if he wants Bobby’s patience. Man!

By hk

May 14, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

… oh, Roachy, that was awful … and it cost us ..

By Rodney Derrick

May 14, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

It is time for Bobby to pull LaRoche; who wants to bet he waits for the end of the inning first though, and then puts Jordan in to the game, or maybe even Diaz. Something has to be done about this guy, and soon. Going to sleep like he does periodically in the field, at bat, and running is unforgiveable. Too late now for the lame excuses.

By Chris

May 14, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

I was hoping Bobby would replace LaRoche in the middle of the inning defensively. If there was ever a play that deserved it, that was it.

By Alan

May 14, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

That’s the worst damn baseball play I’ve ever seen in my life. Check that. That’s the worst damn loafing crappy play that I’ve ever seen by any professional player of any sport. Awful. Awful. Awful. Thompson has a one run game going and La Roache RUINS it with that crap. And now we eat into our bullpen because Thompson had to throw so many pitches because of La Roache’s crap. And the punk is STILL in at first. WB or Jordan, where are you???

By brian

May 14, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

LaRoche’s loafing cost us 4 runs and possibly the game. One game, even 1 out of 162, can be huge in the long run.

Strikeout king has been excused due to his superior defensive play by Cox. What excuse can there be now for him to be a starting 1B for a “contending” team

By KonaSaint

May 14, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

I’m shocked that Bobby didn’t pull him. I remember he pulled Andruw during the inning when he botched a pop fly.

By Ron Roberts

May 14, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

I gotta agree, Chris. I remember when he “publicly” pulled Andruw out of a game a few years back for some ho-hum defensive play. LaRoche - man sometimes it just appears his head ain’t in the game,(and don’t even start on his ADHD, fellas… that’s just ignorant and childish) but GEEZ, it seems like playing major league baseball bores him, sometimes. I like the guy… think he’s TERRIFIC on defense and hasn’t reached his potential on offense, but somebody needs to bury their cleats up his tailpipe to wake him up.

Come to think of it - solid defense, hasn’t reached potential on offense - this sounds just like Andruw Jones a few years back.

Either way, Bobby shoulda pulled the guy (even from the clubhouse after he RIGHTFULLY berated the umpire for costing the Braves four runs witht he blown call. But LaRoche gave him every reason to want to call the runner safe, too, with the ho-hum play.

By hk

May 14, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

MBATL

… this reminds me of something that happened 6-7 years ago, Andruw did a hot dog basket catch, dropped the ball … we learned sometime later that Bobby called him in to his office, privately chewed his rear-end out big time, and Andruw has been different ever since … predict Bobby will do the same with Adam tonight, and we will look back on it as a turning point (for the good)in his carreer …

… I like Adam, think he’s a keeper, we all do dumb stuff like that ..

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

Don’t think Bobby can really afford to yank LaRoche. We’re gonna need pinch hitters in this game, it looks like. His only option would be to put BJ in at 1B, and that kills a PH opportunity when the pitcher’s spot comes up.

Good ol’ Bobby. You know he’s more p**ssed at Adam than at the umpires, but he gives it 100%, gets tossed.

I like it… not the error, or the runs, but Bobby will ALWAYS support his players publicly… on the field and in the press, and that’s part of what makes him a great manager.

By brian

May 14, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

The ump made the right call. “tie” goes to the runner. If I were the ump no way would I reward the Loafer. Church hustled all the way to 1B and ran it out. He deserves credit, but LaRoche’s error/loafing is inexcusable.

By BO

May 14, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

Was LaRoche a Special Ed student in school?What does he not understand about hustle?Bobby got the Boot and lazy roach is still in.

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

HK, I remember that, of course. I like LaRoche too - have defended him endlessly in this blog, but just don’t think he can afford mental lapses right now; hope this does somehow turn out to be a turning point.

By brian

May 14, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this

I would always support my players when they give it their all. I would forgive Bill Buckner’s error in ‘86 before I would forgive LaRoche’s loafing to 1B on that play.

Want to get his attention, call up Thormon. A left-handed hitting 1B

By brian

May 14, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

DOB-

I would love to get your opinion on this play tomorrow. Are we being unreasonable or does LaRoche deserve the flak he is getting here?

By hk

May 14, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

… great minds ….

By brian

May 14, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

DOB -

No way I thought Reitsma would last longer than Lidge as closer, though after Lidge’s imploding last year in the playoffs, I would not have wanted any part of him as in trading for him.

Reitsma’s days are numbered as Terence Moore is throwing his support to Reitsma.

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

brian, I suspect that Bobby will have a response to this, in the clubhouse, and in his lineup. My point is just that there is no need to embarrass a player on the field (the AJ incident a few years ago was a calculated exception, I think, probably after several more subtle attempts to get AJ’s attention - but I’m only guessing).

Bo, it’s well documented that Adam does have A.D.D. But I don’t think that’s the problem here… I think he just thought he had plenty of time to make the play. NOT DEFENDING IT! Wouldn’t be at all surprised to see BJ starting the next few games.

By Bill Austin

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

PLEASE,PLEASE,PLEASE……..TRADE, RELEASE OR SEND DOWN LAROCHE. He doesn’t hustle. He cost us a very big run the last game of the playoff loss to the Astros by not running hard at all. That run turned out to end our season. And today Mothers Day he turned the entire game around with his half hearted walk to first base after he fields a ball that had the runner out by half the baseline if he tags him or plays at game speed to get to the base. Nick Johnson, no speedster himself knows LaRoche’s laziness and therefore ran hard and beat him to the base. As a fan there is only one thing I hate to see and that is a player not trying to play at the peak of their ability. LaRoche consistantly waives at pitches and looks overmatched at the plate against mediocre pitching. He strikes out way to much and when he does hit the ball doesn’t run anyway so why isn’t Chipper playing first base and Wilson Betemit playing full time third base. Even Jordan is a better choice. He’s hitting over .300 and will run through a wall for this team. I hope in the near future the Braves have another player playing first base permanently. By the way Langerhan’s even though he is struggling is saving lots of runs with his defense and will run hard on even a comebacker to the pitcher. You have to root for a guy trying that hard….

By brian

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

I think it is fine that Bobby handles it internally. I don’t expect him to say anything publically critical about Adam nor should he. It is fair though to sit him a game or two to reflect. ADHD has nothing to do with loafing to 1B to get that 3rd out. He just assumed that Church would not run it out and got burned.

By StuckinUK

May 14, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

I have been reading this blog for a while, and didn’t used to believe that Laroche deserved all the flak he was getting, but that play was incredibly stupid. There is no way he should be allowed to stay in the game or play until he gets his head on straight. I think in this case there is a need to embarass LaRoche, it might jump start him. On another note, where have the bats gone tonight.

By Dirty Dawg

May 14, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

Bobby, or somebody, needs to put a #10 Spotbuilt up AL’s butt. This kind of lackadaisical…non-chalant (and I don’t care how you spell either) play has been all too much a part of this guy’s game. ADD or HUB (head-up-butt) he’s been doing this ever since he got here and today it cost John Thompson, and the team, a chance at a sweep.

Patience my foot, get him the hell out of there and put somebody in that will at least give the appearance of a hustler.

By HEAD COACH

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

Laroche getting flak , you think he doesnt deserve to get his butt chewed ? If one of my kids pulled a stunt like that he would be running laps after the game until Im tired of watching him run laps. Roachy doesnt have his head in the game and its affecting his offense and defense. A behind closed doors butt chewing is in the works after this game. Two out of three is nice but it just wont cut it , The Muts and Phillies are playing just as good against better competition. Hopefully we dont lose a game in the standings today. Happy Mothers day to all you wonderful Moms and Ladies.

By Peewee

May 14, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

One player not doing his job,really turn this game around. Brian, Buckner was at least trying not LaROS……

By gotigers72

May 14, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

I saw Bobby take Andrew out of a game for not hustling [a few years ago], why not the same treatment for LaLoaf? That was as bad a play as I’ve ever seen in a pro baseball game, simply because of a lack of hustle. Chipper or someone needs to take him off to the side for a acolding. There is a first baseman at Richmond named Scott Thorman who is hitting over .300 and has some power. I think it’s time he sees The Show.

I’ll say it again too about Moylan. He is not a major league pitcher.

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

Braves pitching hasn’t done a very good job of pitching around the error, have they? Boy, we look flat today. Do we ever win wearing those orange jerseys?

Brian, I agree on all counts.

By gotigers72

May 14, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

What if you had just paid $100+ for you and your family to see a game and somebody getting 6 to 7 figures to PLAY the game pulls something like that. I would be real tempted to go to the box office and ask for my money back. The least you can expect as a fan is total effort on every play. Baseball Tonight and Sportscenter will have a blast showing that play over and over.

By hk

May 14, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

MBATL,

… speaking of colors, back in the 4th, when Thomson came to bat, he was grinning, looking into the dugout ..Skip explained that Thomson is very light complected, turns pink during games, his teammates have therefor started calling him “Pinky” … apparently when Thomson came to bat, somebody arranged to have ‘the Pink Panther’ played, thus the grin … then Thomson got a hit, and there was much back and forth with the duggout … thought at the time (hope that doesn’t get him out of whack when he goes out to pitch next inning) … then Roachy, then disaster ..

By Carroll

May 14, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

I wonder what the excuse will be for LaRoche today….maybe he has a bladder infection or cramps. Everyone (especially Ron Roberts) thought I was out of line for giving him crap about losing game 4 for us last year. Obviously, I was right.

By Ron Roberts

May 14, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

Did I miss something, Carroll? I could’ve sworn LaRoche also hit the grand slam earler in game four and wasn’t asked to pitch relief in the implosion during the 8th against the Astros in the playoffs.

OBVIOUSLY you were right then, based on his lackadaisacal play today, some EIGHT months later. I’m sure the two events are related.

Just remember who decided to throw barbs first, this time (yet again).

By Ron Roberts

May 14, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this

And if you’ll scroll up, you’ll notice I’m right in there w/everybody else berating his ho-hum play on that dribbler towards him.

Eight months later, and you wanna claim (still) that you were right about something you can’t possibly know one way or the other? Wow. So are you still right in thinking we should trade Andruw Jones (as you asserted in May ‘05)?

You act as if there’s some CONSPIRACY to hide a presumed base-running blunder in the playoffs, last year. Like Karl Rove’s calling the shots in the clubhouse or something… dude, Bobby Cox is - if nothing else - consistent. As myself and others have mentioned before, he’s called out star players for hot-shot and ho-hum play, sometimes public, but more often than not, behind closed doors and with lineup cards. If LaRoche had been hot-dogging around the bases in the playoffs this year, I believe fairly well that Cox would’ve “Robert Fick’ed” him in the offseason or during spring training.

So forgive me (and others) eight months later, if I choose to believe the manager after that game, rather than you from your barcolounger.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

Looks like I left at the wrong time … got back with 2 out in the ninth … thought I couls depend on the Bloggers better than this.

Seriously, the posts make it pretty clear as to what happened … evidently just after I left.

For those surprised that Bobby didn’t pull Adam like he did with Andruw, rest assured that the issue will be addressed.

Bobby’s managerial genius lies in his ability to recognize the inner clocks of 25 different players and knows that although Adam and Andruw start with the same letter, different things make them tick … but he’ll make his point … in Spades! My guess that, at the very least, he” take Adam’s “interviewee” privileges away for at least a week and send him to bed without supper!

Whatever it is, my bet is that it will get results or he’ll be out of here. After last night’s win, today’s lack of focus and failure to capitalize on that momentum should result in some other private sessions with the Skipper as well.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 14, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

Its time for LaRoche to go. Good lord, was the awful. Is it just me or do flashbacks of game 4 in the NLDS come to mind. His loafing cost us then and it cost us today. It changed the entire momentum of the game. Yes, Thompson has to pitch around errors. But, something like that can mess with your mind. He was visibly shaken and lost his focus. All because LaLoafer that he would be cute and step on the bag right before Johnson got there. I do believe after watching the replay that he was out, but that is not the point.

By Jman

May 14, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I wonder what Laroche’s excuse will be today? That was sickening and ridiculous! GET RID OF HIM!!! Get someone in there who can actually hit and field the ball and who actually cares about the game! His nonchalant attitude should get him kicked off the team! Or at least benched for the rest of the week!

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 14, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I cannot believe Bobby didn’t take him out of the game. I remember the days when Andruw pulled some of that crap and Bobby immediatedly would yank him.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

On this Mother’s day, let’s all reflect on how we express our frustrations before we post them for the world to see. Mother’s Day impacts most of us to some extent and that, coupled with all of the festivities surronding today’s game, may well have affected some more than others … for reasons we may never know. I would that it would be especially distracting for the home team guys directly involved in the non-baseball fanfare.

That doesn’t excuse anything but it may, in part, explain it.

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

Non-journalist’s report of anticipated post-game meeting between Bobby and Adam:

Bobby: “Kid, that play really hurt us, and we can’t have Braves players laying down on the job. What’s the story?”

Adam: “Coach, it wasn’t a lack of hustle. I just thought I had more time to make the play. My back was to the runner, and he came on faster than I thought. I made a mistake.”

Bobby: “Don’t let it happen again. Everybody makes mistakes, but that’s the kind of mistake we won’t put up with often. We’re professionals here. We believe in you. Now get out there and play ball.”

— End of fantasy meeting. Really, what options does Bobby have? BJ is playing well, but he’s not an everyday player. I don’t know about Thorman, but assume he’s not-ready-for-prime-time. We can let this one play destroy a player, or move on. Like I said earlier, pitchers are supposed to pitch around the occasional error, and we didn’t today.

By Bob, journalist jg

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

Oops! The “I would that it would be especially distracting” should read “I would imagine that …” and shows that I too was a bit distracted … by the smell of a roast in the oven.

By old timer

May 14, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I was among those who defended LaRoche during the offseason. When he blew that play today, I just thought, Well, I was wrong. You had him pegged. The way it looked to me, he showed the runner that he had the ball and assumed the runner would slow up and accept that he was out because that is what LaRoche himself would have done. Time to sit him down. Trade him if possible. That play, the worst I’ve seen in a long while, came just hours after a win that could have reset the season. I cut these guys a lot of slack because anyone can make a mistake, but there’s just no excuse for that one.

By hk

May 14, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this

… well said, MBATL, well said, bet that’s very close to the way it happened … yes, one play could ‘break’ a player, but with Bobby around, that same play can ‘make’him …

Bob, (can’t resist) … you remember ‘Tinker to Evers to Chance’ … well the story of today seems to have been …

… ‘mommy to Roachy to Pinky’

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

This is what I gleen from the Blog and the Post game writeups … tell me what I missed. Except for the Bowman quote, the prose simply reflects my frustration.

While most are commenting on Adam’s costly nonchalant play; some noted the continued ineffectiveness of Peter Moylan whose bottle seems to have lost most, if not all, of its lightning.

As expected, Edgar and Jeff continued their streaks and John showed once again that he can hit … while the bids of Matt and Wilson to play every day … will once again go largely unnoticed because Adam’s still getting the most attention in the press.

I’m not one of Bowman’s biggest fans, but he certainly seems to agree with you guys today: “Adam LaRoche’s lackadaisical fifth-inning miscue deflated the Braves and led to a somewhat embarrassing end to the their three-game series against the Nationals”.

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

Bob, there is NO DOUBT that the error (and it wasn’t really an error, if you look at scoring rules, but that’s how they scored it, and I’m glad they did …) hurt us. But the storyline is that we didn’t hit at all, didn’t pitch past one error… just generally played poorly.

I’m not looking past Adam’s bad play, but we wouldn’t have won this game anyway. Agree with someone’s previous comment (sorry, can’t find the post now): Moylan is a disaster. We’ve got to address the ‘pen before we think about moving Giles, LaRoche, or any other starters.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 14, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

baby seal reviewed the replays and has asked this journalist if laroche is again suffering from the flu … journalist jimmy smith is uncertain. will chipper take laroche aside and have a man-to-man talk with him? “uh, adam …” will the kangaroo court deal with this matter? new aussie pitcher could be the kangaroo. will tomorrow’s “adam laroche report” reveal what happened today? dob will miss the plum assignment of finding the truth in a probing radio interview. everything seems back to normal now - even carroll and ron roberts are back to normal - and the famous barcolounger has returned to the blog. the most prominent lounger today had to be laroche. oh, well, a team that has so many catchers and middle infielders in the wings apparently has no one in the wings at first base bobby is happy with.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

HK, I’d rather you be known as a sexy senior citizen than a nasty old man … be nice! LOL

Goodness, I didn’t say that!

I totally agree with what you said to MBATL … which do you think it will be?

By old timer

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

WB can play first and should, starting immediatley.

By hk

May 14, 2006 06:08 PM | Link to this

Bob, … ‘make’ …

By MBATL

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

old timer: has WB actually played 1B? I’m not arguing… just asking.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

HK, I rather think that you’re right … and with regard to his hitting, I hope can take some of what appears to be a “loop” out of his swing.

MBATL, thanks, it certainly appears that the head of the nail has been hit by your hammer! My biggest dissappointments … and surprises … were: (1) the momentum from last night’s game took a powder, and (2) John was unable to come to Adam’s rescue, following that play.

Time for supper … Hello Jimmy, you’ll be pleased that I’m having no cheese … just roast, taters, and carrots with Kenyan Tea and honey … probably just as bad … but it sure smells good! Happy Mother’s day!

By Jamie in Richmond

May 14, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this

Okay, enough is enough. LaSwing is a LaHeadcase. This is about the 5th or 6th time that LaGolf has had a brain cramp of some sort, and I’m irritated like hell that he continues to get passes on them by many fans, media, etc. This is the same guy who admits, ADMITS, that he won’t take medicine for his problem with ADD which might cause him to loose concentration. That he wont even make an attempt to medicate his attention deficit disorder is incredibly selfish. I can’t help but believe that if this joker werent Chipper’s personal hitting project and hunting buddy he’d have been long gone by now. The guy is a clown, and even if he goes 20 for his next 20 he’ll still be a clown. Maybe one day after he pulls one of these stunts in a playoff game we’ll finally see an AJC blog centered around this guy and his lackadazical nature and how his goofy behavior continues to be a detriment to the team. But I won’t hold my breath…

By teoa

May 14, 2006 06:35 PM | Link to this

LaDouche must go!!!

I know there are a lot of people here who like to talk about LaDouche’s great potential. To be honest, I’ve never seen it — with that long, slow swing, I don’t think he can ever be a consistent hitter. And his defense is highly overrated — I would rate him slightly above average, but I can remember 4 or 5 plays already this year that have cost the Braves runs (a lot for a 1B).

But even if you all are right and LaDouche does have the ability to hit .280 with good power and run production and he turns into a gold-glove first baseman, I WOULD NOT WANT HIM ON MY TEAM! The guy simply has no heart. He’s proven it several times now, as even he admitted today. After that embarrassment that cost the Braves in the playoffs, and LaDouche’s even more embarrassing excuses about why he had to jog around the bases in the most important game of the year (which many of you inexplicably bought), you would think he’d have learned his lesson for the rest of his career. Obviously, he simply doesn’t care, or his disorder keeps him from caring, or whatever — the point is he has to go. There is nothing more demoralizing to a team than a guy losing a game because he doesn’t bother to play hard. Anyone can hustle. It’s well past time to end the LaDouche experiment and either move Betemit to first or bring someone up. I would be more than happy to trade out LaDouche’s “potential” for a player that actually plays with some heart.

By teoa

May 14, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this

Jaime, “maybe one day after he pulls one of these stunts in a playoff game”…?

He already did — last year. Fortunately for you, you must have missed that. But he was given a pass for not hustling in the biggest game of the year because he “wasn’t feeling well”. Oh, poor LaDouche. I’m sick of hearing about his stupid ADD too if he refuses to take medication. Is this supposed to give him a built-in excuse for the rest of his career for every game he loses for his team because he didn’t bother to hustle?

No more excuses, LaDouche sucks!

By Jamie in Richmond

May 14, 2006 06:48 PM | Link to this

TEOA, you nailed it. We’ve got a guy named Brian Jordan who would run through a brick wall for this team, and LaCasual has pulled one of these stunts every 3 or 4 months since he’s been in the Bigs. He is waaayyy overrated defensively. Someone try to tell me with a straight face that he has good range and quick feet. Make me laugh, please. Nevermind the offense, anybody can look up his stats and see what sort of hitter he is (or isnt). But its his lack of intensity that p** me off more than anything. Give me a Brian Jordan hitting .185 over a LaRoche hitting .240 any day of the week. And given that BJ’s around .300, and LaLazy has the lowest avg among our regulars, his a* would be glued to that pine for the immediate future. I saw Laroche play in Richmond, and he pulled these lazy stuns every so often. This is nothing new, unfortunately. Its just that too many people have been reading nonsense about the “sweet swing” and 15 gold gloves he’s supposed to win at first.

By Rodger

May 14, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Man, you guys said it all. I semi-bought Roachies excuse last year, but this proves me wrong. No excuse for that at any level of professional ball.

By Jamie in Richmond

May 14, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this

TEOA- Oh yeah, I saw LaSlow creep around those bases to the tune of 0 mph last October. And I read all the media clippings about how he was sick, etc. Look, Andruw Jones would have to lose a leg to play less than 100%, and LaLoaf’s backup would run through fire for this ballclub. The ADD stuff isnt an excuse. Rather, I see it as selfish more than anythind else, because he admits “he forgets to take his meds” so why bother to take them anyway? MORON- Because you play pro baseball and an attention deficit might cause you to fall asleep at the wheel like you have so many times since you’ve been in Atl. He’s a first class clown- maybe if Chipper would “break up with him” JS wouldnt feel afraid to move him.

By Jamie in Richmond

May 14, 2006 06:55 PM | Link to this

Glad you’re on board Rodger. LaCasual has gotten away with these routines for far too long. Glad to see that the crowd gave him a dose of medicine today. (especially since he won’t take any on his own!)

By old timer

May 14, 2006 06:55 PM | Link to this

I have no idea if WB has played first in pro ball. But if you can play third and short, you can play first. It isn’t like sticking an outfielder there.

In Philly, they have an outfielder on the DL because he ran his face into the wall making a catch to save some runs for his team. We have a first baseman who cost us a game because he can’t even semi hustle over to the bag. You will never see a play worse than that one.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 07:03 PM | Link to this

Hi Teoa, I missed what happened but got the gist from the Blog and a couple of writeups … I looked for post game LaRouche Comments that have recently been as common as a cold … but diddn’t see any. Did your “as even he admitted today” comment refer to a TV, Radio, or Press interview comment?

By MEB

May 14, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

Just a thought… I think Larouche was counting on the runner backing off and not pulling a hamstring in a vain attempt to reach first. I think it is customary (one of those unwritten rules) for the first baseman to show the runner the ball (which Laroche obviously did) knowing that he had the sure out. No one was more shocked than Larouche that the runner did not pull up.

By Jamie in Richmond

May 14, 2006 07:20 PM | Link to this

MEB- I’m sure you’re right- LaBushleague didnt expect the runner to bust it down the 1st base line because its something that he’d never do himself. Unfortunately for him, there was a Washington National bearing down on him who plays the game a little (or a lot) harder than he does…

By MBATL

May 14, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

Bob, caught a glimpse of Adam post-game on the local news. Man, he was more down on himself than anyone in this blog. Pretty much said that if he was Bobby, he’d sit himself for a week. It was kinda scary to see how he’s taking it…

By Diese

May 14, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this

I just saw the replay on Baseball Tonight (I was traveling and listening to the play live). Kruk is ripping him, and rightly so. It was lazy, lackadasical, bush-league, whatever you want to call it. It’s gone on for too long…he flat doesn’t hustle, and does not belong on a team where playing the game the right way is stressed so strongly. Nick Johnson can play for me any day - he didn’t quit after dribbling it down to first - that’s what a ballplayer should do. Kockroche (have to spell it with K’s) has no business on this team. No hustle. No emotion. Get lost.

By Jamie in Richmond

May 14, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

Bravo, Driese. Well put.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

MBATL Thanks! That is scary!

By hk

May 14, 2006 08:51 PM | Link to this

… no it’s not, not one bit, that takes guts … he’ll be fine …

By teoa

May 14, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this

I agree, Jamie.

Bob, I read his comments on the recap on espn.com.

Let’s hope Bobby takes him up on that offer. Or better yet, let him pull that crap for some other team. I’ve seen enough. If he didn’t learn anything from losing a playoff game for his team by not hustling, he’s never going to learn. Blame it on ADD all you want. Unfortunately they don’t hand out awards for being the best mediocre team to play with mentally challenged players. If they decide to give LaDouche yet another opportunity, it should be on the condition that he begin taking medication immediately. No more excuses.

By Dirty Dawg

May 14, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

I’ve been on LaRoche’s case since he’s been here…that slow-moving, deliberate style has been p**’ me off from the get go. I don’t know if he thinks he’s being cool, or the drugs for the ADD just slow him down so much he can’t help himself, he moves as if he’s on 33 1/3 when everybody else is running on 78(I realize that not many here have any idea what that means, but some do - think of slow-mo versus fast-forward). Regardless, I was glad to hear that the fans let him have it for the rest of the day. If this doesn’t give him the kick-in-the-a* necessary to turn him around, nothing will. I’ll be interested in seeing how he reacts and if he’s even capable of giving the appearance of hustling.

By Carroll

May 14, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

old timer: perhaps LaRoche just assumed that Johnson would react in the same sorry-a* manner that he would if he had hit that little dribbler to first.

By Kentavo

May 14, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

LaLoaf!

By old timer

May 14, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

Carroll, that’s what I’m thinking, and I am also wondering if Johnson put on a burst because he knew LaRoche would snail on over to the bag.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 14, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

“LaRoche compounded his misery by going 0-for-3 at the plate, failing to get a ball out of the infield. He won’t be the lineup Monday when the Braves open a four-game series against the Florida Marlins - Cox already decided to start Brian Jordan at first.”

“I would probably do the same thing,” LaRoche said. “The first thing I did after the game was go in (Cox’s) office and let him know I was sorry. There’s no excuse for that. He doesn’t have many rules. Basically, it’s show up on time and hustle. You’ve got to hustle.”

journalist jimmy smith found this on the forbes site. earlier in the article laroche admits to a lack of focus and a lack of hustle. an earlier blogger says you hustle on every play. chipper and andruw often do not hustle down the line. these are the braves’ stars. journalist jimmy smith says everyone of the team should hustle all the time. seal agrees.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

MBATL, is it fair to say that you think it was more a case of bad judgement or getting “deeked” than nonchalant play?

Perhaps the “Adam” post game interview you heard gave insight into his own feelings on which it was … maybe a bit of both.

Where I’m heading is … to what extent do you think Adam’s poor judgement and/or lackadaisical play is a cronic condition … as suggested by many of the posts?

I’m interested in your opinion and will loan you my 20 foot pole I you need one.

My reaction and thoughts … You know that I like Adam and he’s certainly not the Lone Ranger … We lost one World Series, maybe two, as a result of bad judgement or being lured into a trap.

Occassional poor judgement mishaps happen to all … but, while the giving of less than 100% isn’t rare, it borders on the inexcusable, especially on defense. We only need to go back to yesterday’s game to find more than one “hit” that should have been caught … but, those were guickly forgotten because it was “us” not “them” that benefited.

However, it’s good, not bad, that we hold our team to a high standard and “demand” 100% on every defensive play. Offensively, there are indeed exceptions … such as pitchers with good leads trying to beat out an infield hit with 2 outs and nobody on base.

Losing focus is a bit different; especially when recent adverse events have an upsetting impact … but it’s certainly a blood relation to giving less than 100% … only easier to excuse.

However, if the condition is indeed cronic … then someone other than Adam should be held responsible for recognizing the problem and seeing that appropriate action was taken.

Regarding his amedical Condition … It’s easy for us to fault Adam for his decisions regarding the treatment and taking of prescribed medicines … so as to properly control his condition. Adam’s decisions are his own but the Braves should include conditions of playing eligibility that require that an appropriate Plan of Care be in effect and that is effected.

My feeling is that the blame should be shared or assumed entirely by Braves management for allowing any player with a diagnosed, medical condition … that affects play or exposes the player to risk … to play unless he is in compliance with a prescribed, monitored plan of care.

By Ron Roberts

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

Good post, Bob-Journalist-jg.

Let’s not lose sight of the fact that the “team captain” Chipper Jones left the sacks loaded early in the game and struck out (his second time Sunday) in a clutch situation.

Let’s not lose sight of the fact that, for whatever reason, Thomson became Sosa-like after LaRoche’s loaf to first.

Or that Moylan was ineffective… or that the entire lineup looked like they’d taken Francoeur out on the town to celebrate his grand slam the night before and stayed out too late.

If Bobby’s smart, he’ll keep LaRoche cooling on the bench til this team hits the road, ‘cause the cacaphony of boos he’ll assuredly get at the Ted in the very near future won’t do the dude’s psyche any good.

But, for the record, notice that there were no excuses after the game, from LaRoche, from Cox, from anybody inside that clubhouse. That makes his October issue, to me, seem all the more legitimate.

I, myself, have defended LaRoche in prior occasions because he’s a human being, his playoff run in ‘05, by team accounts, had a legitimate circumstance to point to, and the moniker-mangling hate-fueled blogging doesn’t always come “deserved.” But whereas I and other fans have taken a more tempered and “it’s a long season, he always comes around to .270 20 HR 80 RBI by October” approach to him, now LaRoche is about as popular with the Braves fans as the current White House resident is in every poll coming out lately.

He has a tall task ahead of him, and rather than burying him (or any player for that matter), a little christian support from those who wish him (and the team) well and some harsh “tough love” from his manager would be refreshing.

Now, though, I can’t help but wonder where we’d be if we’d have picked up Nomar in the offseason. :) He’s on fire.

By old timer

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

Ron Roberts, making outs in the clutch, making errors, etc. is not the same as dogging it. If LaRoche had simply misplayed the grounder, we wouldn’t be having this discussion.

By hk

May 14, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this

Bob,

… there’s any irony in all this … they showed that play at first over and over again, and I believe Adam did in fact beat the guy to the bag … but the hitter was really hustling coming down the line, and Adam was not … if I had been the ump I would have called him safe too … in baseball the ‘worthy’ guy usually gets the call, for instance …

… many many times a guy stealing second is really safe when called out, because the efforts by the catcher and second baseman are more ‘worthy’ (prettier, require more skill and effort) ..

… same with a throw by Andruw or Frenchy to the plate to get the runner, if its close the runner will be called out …

… on the other hand, if Langy hits what should be a single but stretches it to a double, if it’s close, he will be called safe … it was a ‘worthy’ effort …

… and of course, the one that everybody acknowldeges, a pitcher pitching a great game will get the calls, and visa versa ..

… and so, in this case, the hitter’s efforts were more ‘worthy’ than Adam’s efforts, and he was called safe when he was most likely out …

… I fully agree with this concept, it encourages effort, good play, and makes for great baseball …

By Bill

May 14, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this

NOW can we see Wilson Betemit taker some ground balls at first????

By Ron Roberts

May 14, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

Oh, no doubt, you’re right. Actually, the folks that always jump on the guy would still jump on the guy. I drown them out; its the sane bunch that posts here who are (rightfully) on his case that let ya know he truly fouled up today.

I don’t envy him today. Reading his quotes, you can tell he “gets” what he did and ain’t proud. Actually, reading what he recalled saying to the umpire when he was at the plate getting booed, all joking aside, I hope he’s not alone for a few. Y have to worry about the mental well-being of anybody who sounds as down on themselves as he did in today’s article. Nothing’s worth doing anything trastic to yourself, ya know? I dunno… I sorta feel for the guy; I felt for Donnie Moore in ‘86 and Bill Buckner, too, in ‘86, for that matter, too, so…

…and we all know how Donnie Moore took it.

By Carolina Lady

May 14, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

Well, I have sat here for a while trying to decide whether or not to say what I’m about to say. Let me preface this by saying that I 100% understand the frustration Braves fans feel - I’m a rather rabid fan myself. My only intent is to perhaps lend some understanding to what living with ADHD and it’s complications is like.

I have 1 child, my precious daughter, whom I raised by myself since she was about 2 months old. She was lively, bright, interested in everything and into evrything. She started K4 at age 4 and appeared to be just like every other kid in her class. As the months went by, the other kids learned things and progressed. She didn’t.

The school officials said ‘Don’t worry, some kids just need a little time to mature. We’ll keep her back a year, let her catch up and she’ll be fine.’ That’s what we did - except that year there was very little improvement either, but they decided to put her in K5 for the following year. (She’s now 6 years old.)

To shorten this, she spent 2 years in K5 and finally went to 1st grade at age 8. I noticed that when she was trying to learn to read, she isolated each word with her fingers but then the sentence had no context - it was just a string of words. Copying things from the board, revealed that she didn’t see the entire board - just a section of it. She would complete what she saw of a page of work, not knowing that there was more than what her eyes and brain was telling her.

The upshot of this is that ADHD is often accompanied by other problems that may or may not be discovered. Testing on those afflicted with it is difficult and very time-consuming, and varies from individual to individual. Nothing in their world is as it is in ours. Nothing. They have to work a hundred times harder than any of us to accomplish the same task. When their minds wonder off, there is NOTHING THEY CAN DO ABOUT IT. IT IS TOTALLY BEYOND THEIR CONTROL. THEY DON’T EVEN REALIZE IT HAS HAPPENED.

I’ve never made even one statement about Adam for the very reason reason that when I first read that he suffers from this disorder, I was amazed that he was able to play at the major league level at all. That in itself, to anyone with knowledge or experience with ADHD, is an incredible accomplishment.

There surely isn’t room here to fully explain the disorder and all of it’s complications, and I fear I’ve done a very poor job with this post. I would only urge others to extend a little compassion to a fellow human who has a very hard ‘row to hoe’, baseball not withstanding.

After my daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and the other things, I was very concerned about how to explain it to her. When I did, her eyes lit up and with heartbreaking relief in her voice, she said, “You mean I’m NOT just a stupid, clumsy girl?? There’s something that CAUSES it??”

I don’t know Adam or anyone in his family, but I know what they have been through. I know about the tutors, special classes, pyscologists, speech therapists, etc etc etc.I know the depths of his dispair tonight. What he needs from us is our prayers.

You are a really great group of people. Thanks for reading my poor effort.

By gotigers72

May 14, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

Correct old timer. Fans forgive errors, lack of clutch hitting, etc., if those things are done with effort. Lack of effort is not the same. You or I could not play baseball on the major league level, but WE could give all out effort. Anyone could.

The best hustlers on the Braves are Marcus and Frenchy, and really, most of the young guys. Several times this year, Frenchy has beaten out ground balls simply because he hustled from home ALL THE WAY to first. It should be that way with EVERY major league player but it isn’t. Getting paid 6, 7, even 8 figures to PLAY a kid’s game should make anyone want to hustle on every play.

By hoho

May 14, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

I’ll start with the obvious- YES Laroache made a bone-headed play today. BUT- where was Thompson’s head after it. He had many chances to still end the inning relatively unscathed. After all, Thompson is a professional too, isn’t he? Reminds me a little of Chip Carey’s assesment of the Bartman situation in Chicago a couple years ago. As Chip points out, there were still chances to get out of it even after the Bartman play. YES, Laroach’s play was dumb, but if relief pitchers are expected to have a short memory why not expect that of all of the professional players on the field ( that’s all 9 of ‘em right?) I know- baseball’s strange that way, once the dam springs even a little leak…

Last thing-  I guess I missed the announcement of Ron Gant working with Rathbun (friday on TS i think).  Anyone know if that's permanent?  I liked Gant with the regular announcers last year, added a lot.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

By MBATL

HK, It was certainly scary to me that he was more down on himself than what has been expressed by some on this blog … and the visual of him expressing his feelings in such a way as to cause MBATL to reach the conclusion that it was scary to him … was scary to me!

However, in no way to I question Adam’s courage … judgement; sometimes maybe.

However, I would generally question the wisdom of Braves Management in allowing any player to be subjected to interviews known to be potentially explosive … unless that player expressly chose to be interviewed.

I think that it is usually in the best interests of both the player and the team … for Management to protect them in such cases … unless that player expressly chooses to be interviewed. … and then I would probably hold my breath and cross my fingers until it was over. I would think it rare for a network interview, taken under these conditions, to benefit either player or team.

By Ron Roberts

May 14, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady’s post should be required reading on this site.

My sister was diagnosed, much later in her school years, thus it was too late to go back and re-do her scholastic upbringing. Suffice to say ADHD isn’t an affliction many people would have a grasp of if they’d not experienced it first-hand.

By Bill

May 14, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

hk, you are right on the money hustle counts. Lackadisical as it was, the ump gave it to the player that hustled. The game was lost because we didn’t hit or have any pitching. HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU SEEN BRAVE PLAyER NOT HUSTLE TO FIRST?

By old timer

May 14, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady, that is a terrific post. I don’t know that much about ADD or ADHD, but I do know a bit about other mental illnesses, primarily schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and how devastating they are. Actually, no one really knows much about any of these illnesses, not even the people who treat them. We don’t spend the money to study them or properly treat them, primarily because of the stigma, as I am sure you are aware. It appears to me from what little study I have done that there are varying degrees of these illnesses. Some people with bipolar disorder, for example, do well on their lithium and have successful careers. They work at desks next to people who have no idea they are sick. Others with bipolar can’t hold jobs or take any of their grand plans to fruition. Since LaRoche is able to play in the Big Leagues with ADD, an astonishing thing as you point out, I am thinking maybe he has a milder case of it than some people have. I do not believe the ADD was the problem on the play in question. I think LaRoche knew where to go with the baseball. Of course, I have no way of knowing if he had some sort of disconnect on the way there. I think you are right that he should be in our prayers. On the other hand, I think the strong reaction among the people who were at the game and the people on this blog might send the needed message that he has to figure out a way to hustle and concentrate and take his meds if he needs them.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 14, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this

For the curious, the “By MBATL” in my previous post was not to suggest that he endorses any of what I said! In fact, he left the room and said he was going home.

Actually, I’m guilty of a “cut and paste” where I forgot the final “cut” … and you’ll note some duplication where I changed how I worded things and left the phrase in both paragraphs.

By hoho

May 14, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

RON ROBERTS- i like Laroache generally, although the play was idiotic today. can those of us who wish him well still support him even if we’re not christian? what about those of other faiths, is their support ok too? keep in mind y’all, i’m talking about baseball here, not religion. just want to know how to best support the team, if my support is good enough. how ‘bout some good rastafarian support? GO BRAVES!!!

By Ron Roberts

May 14, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

hoho…

…however you worship, or choose not to even, his quotes read like a man who needs people hoping, praying, chanting, cnanneling, ESP-ing, etc. for his well-being.

By Carolina Lady

May 15, 2006 12:03 AM | Link to this

HoHo, I think perhaps your comments should be directed at me instead of Ron Roberts since I’m the one who suggested that those of us who know how to pray should offer our prayers for Adam. Ron said nothing about it.

But if you don’t know how to pray or if you don’t have God to pray to, then that sentence in my previous post can’t possibly apply to you so you should disregard it.

My post was just one person’s personal perspective on a very difficult affliction and asking for consideration, support and compassion for Adam. Nothing more.

If my reference to God and prayer offends you, then I ask you to simply skip my posts in the future. And I intend nothing but kindness in that. You also will be in my prayers.

By hk

May 15, 2006 12:04 AM | Link to this

Bob, … I’m still trying to reproduce that really neat post formatting that ssiscribe did the other day with the big corky dots and indentation .. latest effort, did a draft of a post in MS word that looked exactly like ssiscribe’s post, but when I cut and pasted it into the blog, the big dots turned into question marks and the indents all went away …

By Peewee

May 15, 2006 12:06 AM | Link to this

He said he was wrong and sorry for what happen. As long as he has on that Brave uniform I will be pulling for him.He who is perfect cast the first stone.

By hk

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

… way to go, Carolina Lady, you’ve done it again (prayer) … 10 out of 10 !!!

By hoho

May 15, 2006 12:28 AM | Link to this

CAROLINA LADY- it was Ron i was responding to from 11:03pm. I’m not offended by God references or prayer and i wouldn’t skip your posts, i dig your stuff. i’m out here in the middle of nature too. let’s all remember there is a difference in not agreeing (sp?) with something and being offended. Gee, we are a sensitive society these days aren’t we. i include myself in that group. i liked ron’s reply from 11:57 pm.

Dang- wouldn’t a sweep today have been nice? would’ve been more productive in the standings anyway.

So what are “we” gonna do with kelly johnson? trade bait? can he play 1st base?

By hoho

May 15, 2006 12:43 AM | Link to this

CAROLINA LADY- by the way, do you know why a bard owl would be flying around “our land” in the middle of the day? she’s (?) been around for a few weeks. I guess she’s comfortable here, or maybe got some babies somewhere and needs to get those kids fed. it’s amazing to see her flying around us as we walk our trail in the middle of the day. beautiful creature. (can she play 1st base, close?, middle relief?- i’ll ask)

By Carolina Lady

May 15, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this

HoHo, I didn’t catch Ron’s reference in the 11:03 post, so I apologize. Yes, I liked his 11:57 post, as well! Very good!

I too was really hoping for a sweep to help us in our standings. I caught one glimpse of the score of 4-0 Nats, the next look I got was 8-0 Nats. Bummer! (Had other obligations this afternoon.)

The team sure needs help, but I don’t have the answers. DREAMS but no answers! :-) I have no doubt that Shuerholtz has the radar up on FULL and I can’t wait to see if he can come up with anything. I don’t think the market on players is in our favor right now.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 12:49 AM | Link to this

Happy Mothers Evening, My Lady … Adam has a sense of humor about his problem and openly discusses it … that within itself says a lot. Unfortunately, if one is frustrated with his play … and is so disposed, it’s easy to associate the two and use it in excting their pound of flesh.

My son is hyperactive and has Dyslexia. He was in the 1st grade when his problems were initially recognized … but, it was almost 2 more years before they were properly “diagnosed” … the early ’70s were the dark ages relative to diagnosis and treatment of memory, reading, and hyperative related illnesses and we went through a lot … but I don’t think I truly appreciated what he went through until he, a college graduate with honors in math, broke down in tears because he couldn’t read as well as his 12 year old son.

It’s hard for me to properly express what I actually feel but I don’t think that Adam should be harshly critized for his attitude toward treatment … indeed, his public statements may even be somewhat “toungue-in-cheek” … Braves Management should do what’s necessary to assure that he do that which is in his own best interest.

It will be interesting to see how this unfolds, but he seems ready to do what’s necessary to succeed.

Some might that this is a bit inconsistent with other statements that I’ve made … I hope not.

By Carolina Lady

May 15, 2006 12:57 AM | Link to this

HoHo, is that a ‘Barred Owl’ or a ‘Barn owl’? :-) Either way, she probably has young somewhere nearby. It is most likely a Barred Owl because it isn’t unusual at all for them to be about in daylight. They have a territory of about a square mile, which may be expanded in winter if food is scarce. The Barn Owl locates prey almost entirely by sound, as it has the most highly developed sense of hearing of any of the owls, and does almost all of its hunting at night. The Barn nests in dark places vs the Barred which nests in tree cavities or a large abandoned nest. Was that a whole lot more info than you ever wanted?? :-))

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this

HK, I saw what he said … but didn’t try it … and don’t know where it is.

Internally, word generally encodes for their “doc” and may not convert perfectly to the “text” codek used in this form.

What other text editors do you have? I generally use Macromedia’s Homesite … that they acquired when they bought out Allaire a few years ago.

By hoho

May 15, 2006 01:14 AM | Link to this

CAROLINA LADY- yep, a barred owl. that makes sense then since we see her in the daytime and have several big dead trees and stumps. cool, thanks. you are an officianado.

and to echo bob- happy mother’s day to you and all the mom’s out there reading this stuff. you are loved for sure.

By pinball34

May 15, 2006 01:21 AM | Link to this

At least LaRoche had the quinonies to be a stand-up guy afterwards.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 01:23 AM | Link to this

HK … u got mail

By Carolina Lady

May 15, 2006 01:24 AM | Link to this

Hi, Bob! I fully sympathize with your son’s difficulties. Amongst other things, my daughter also has Dyslexia. They are unable to see the whole word, letters may be reversed or missing altogether - and it never stays the same, different every time. That they can learn to read and comprehend at all is amazing. Most of those afflicted with it have very high IQs; if not, I don’t think they’d be able to read at all. It is just amazing the gymnastics that the brain is able to perform to accomplish a task in spite of obstacles.

As to the medications, there are several - each with varying side-effects, some of which are as bad or worse as the conditions they are supposed to correct! And each person reacts differently. It is really so difficult to handle.

Bob, you are teaching me bad habits, sir! Here I am at the keyboard at 1:21 AM instead of zzzzzzzzzz as I should be! It’s alllllll your fault! :-)))

I sure hope the Braves folks can find the solutions they need for all the difficulties this year. If Bobby Cox can guide the team to another postseason this year, he deserves to be inducted into the HOF on the first ballot!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 01:50 AM | Link to this

I totally agree with what you say … learned the hard way about backwards, upsidedown, missing, and reversed words.

Robbie had especial difficulty equating Capitalized and Non-Capitalized words … sorta like computer searches that are case sensitive. To him, “with” and “With” are two different words. We talk almost daily but if he loses my nunber and the battery goes out on his phone, he has no idea what it is. He actually has 2 degrees, the second is in chemistry, organic specialty.

Thankfully, there are schools that have significant support for those with these types of illnesses … much more today that when he was in school. In fact, I was the first from his highschool to finish college.

I’m sorry about the bad habits … and I’ll accept the blame … Darlin’ we’ll just have to stop meeting like this!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 01:55 AM | Link to this

He’s the one with dyslexia … not me … though my typing may otherwise indicate.

I have one advantage over you … Central Time.

By hoho

May 15, 2006 02:12 AM | Link to this

Do y’all think the team may have played better to day if Bobby Cox had taken LaRoache out of the game right then, or at least after the half inning? I was thinking that the team could have been so ticked at LaRoache themselves they might have started playing tense or somethin’. Can’t play if you’re P.O.’d and thinking about other stuff. We’ll see how it plays out the next couple of games. Let’s hope Horacio coming back will be better than Sosa. Let’s hope Sosa can provide some help in the Bullpen.

Moylan? I know one of y’all said it- I don’t know if he’s a Major-Leaguer either (but i’m usually not contacted on those matters anyway).

McBride? now there’s a glimmer of hope for the Bullpen.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 02:31 AM | Link to this

HoHo, looks like folks have gone to bed … in one of my old posts, I asked you about the business you were in … never saw a reply … may have missed it … or perhaps you mised mine. Anyway, the question was one of sincere interest.

By HEAD COACH

May 15, 2006 06:39 AM | Link to this

Does it matter to anyone that we came within an out of losing 2 out of 3 to the Washington Nationals ? ADHD , ADD , DYSLEXIA or whatever , LaRoche has practiced that play over and over his entire professional career. He knows better and knows he screwed up. To his credit he offered no excuse and owned up to his mental error. Cox will bench him for one game and forget about it , so should we. I am truly worried , this team is on the bubble and I believe JS will need to make a couple of trades and personnel moves before this team can and will hit on all cylinders. RF , 1B , Leadoff , closer , fifth spot in the rotation and a more consistent bullpen continue to dog this team. Francoeur , McCann and Davies are all-stars in the making. Renteria is the best pure hitter Ive seen in Atlanta since Rico Carty. Betemit not in the line up everyday is almost a crime , play the guy or trade him. He deserves the chance to be an everyday major league player . Andruw and Chipper are in the midst of a power outage , not good considering the timing. Here is what this COACH would do. Move Renteria into the leadoff hole, then Betemit bats second playing 1B , Francoeur RF, Andruw CF , Chipper 3B , McCann C , a Jordan , Diaz platoon in lF , Giles 2B then the pitcher. Move Sosa to the bullpen and Horacio into the rotation. Smoltz to closer and go with a 4 man rotation with sosa making spot starts. A leadoff hitter , Speed and power at the top of the line up , a shored up rotation and bullpen , a lights out closer and an offensive/defensive lineup the Yankees would be envious of. but , hey what do I know ??? Im’ not Bobby Cox , lol.

By glennbo

May 15, 2006 08:15 AM | Link to this

maybe a month in the minors would get laroche’s head out of his a$$.

By gotigers72

May 15, 2006 08:16 AM | Link to this

Good lineup Coach. I agree with you on almost everything. I would leave Langerhans in as the left fielder though.

My middle son had ADD, and was diagnosed by a specialist in that area. He was not doing well in school, had trouble focusing on almost any task, etc. He was placed on medication for his condition, and the difference was like night and day. He wound up being in the top ten percent of his graduating class [despite not being fond of studying], scored 1300 on the SAT [old version], and won the Governor’s Writing Award from his high school. He also became one of the better players on his LL team, although he had to play one of the positions where there was a lot of action, i.e. pitcher, shortstop, in order to remain focused.

Unfortunately after he left home, he CHOSE to go off of his medication, and as an adult is really struggling. Goes from job to job, forgets to pay bills [lost his right to drive his car because he forgot to pay his car insurance]. You get the picture. I have talked to him about getting back on his medication, offering to help him find a doctor [he has no health insurance], and offering to help pay for his medication. He continues to insist he can do it without meds, and even if he had meds, someone would have to be around to make sure he takes them regularly. So he has made a choice as an adult, and he is paying the consequences. LaRoche has also made the choice, to go it alone without medication, and he also must also face the consequences of his decision.

So many people with mental ilnesses and conditions such as ADD make bad decisions when they forego their meds. A lot of them get into trouble and have everyday lives that could be much better with medication. My son making the decisions he has made have broken my heart. He has so much potential that will go unmet. Yes, I do have empathy for Adam, but he needs to think about whether or not he would be better off with or without meds. I would at least give it another try if I were him.

By Kelly Girl

May 15, 2006 09:03 AM | Link to this

I think it is fair to say that it will be a long time before any of us get over the way Smoltz closed a game. But he rocks just as hard as a starter. I feel that his presence in the starting rotation is crucial. I agree that they need a closer, but Smoltz is not the answer.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 15, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

LaRouche has been the focus of many posts for sometime before Sunday’s incident. It will be unfortunate if the issue of his being the man to play First is decided without properly evaluating what happened yesterday. The natural tendency would be for that to be the thing to swing the election.

I think that we’ll be surprised by how well Adam responds and hope that thinjs go smoothly.

The high risk interview may have been need to allow Adam to unload some guilt and start putting the incident behind him and that is good.

However, it will certainly add fuel to the fire in certain quarters and only time will tell if it has made it more difficult for him to acheive long term success in a Braves uniform. Should he be traded, it could negatively impact his value in the open market.

We can take Adam’s admission that “it was simply a lack of hustle and a lack of focus lapses … and that it had happened before” as being literally true …or assume that the admission was only Adam’s perception of the problem when it is actually more of a case of poor judgement than lost focus and/or inadequate effort.

Either are possible and I think that the poor judgement perspective is the more probable of the two. It’s inconceivable to me that he isn’t making every effort to do his very best for the team on every play.

Poor judgement, or being fooled by another player’s actions, happens every day and is easier for fans to forgive … but the other case may be the easier to correct.

The solution depends on the unasked and unanswered questions … why? What is/are the cause(s)?

Under either perspective, We can only conjecture, with very little information … but we are not the ones who must search for the answers or the solutions. I hope that they determine the causes before deciding on “solutions” .

The most disturbing comments were from the man himself … “It was something that shouldn’t have happened,” Cox said. “Both the umpire and the player were wrong.”

Maybe true, but Bobby doesn’t defame his players … not for God and everybody to read on the screen. That’s not his style … it suggests that he feels that Adam’s effort was significantly less than it should have been … as it appeared to fans … and/or the play just triggered an explosion, about which we may know little or nothing, just waiting to happen.

To some extent, I think both explanations may have been validated by the level of play that followed.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 15, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this

commentary from journalist jimmy smith - this will not be popular commentary for journalist jimmy smith is going to discuss the “professional” approach to the game of baseball for which braves teams are noted. when the team lacks emotion that fans desire to see, it is pointed out that these players have been there before and approach the game with a cool professionalism. emotion has no place. where does one separate emotion and enthusiasm? do these braves have enthusiasm for the game? watching the celebratiion following francoeur’s walkoff homerun one would think they do - but in the everyday performance of their responsibilities, do the braves have (exhibited or not) enthusiasm for the game? do they hustle at all times? even andruw and chipper - consumate professionals who have achieved more than most - do not hustle at all times. smoltz? journalist jimmy smith cannot recall smoltz ever dogging it - and jimmy smith knows smoltz has pitched with pain. journalist asks this question, “if the braves are the consumate professional team - rarely displaying emotion (and thereby sometimes lacking enthusiasm?) does that lull someone like laroche into playing in a lackadaisical manner? does the fact that chipper and andruw don’t run out ground balls (like francoeur does every one)contribute to the fact that it is cool or acceptable to play that way? if that had been chipper or andruw who hit that ball to laroche would not they have been out by twenty steps? can different players on the team play at different speeds and it is acceptable? laroche has been criticized in this blog for months for his demeanor. some have suggested he doesn’t get mad when he fails at the plate (and some excuse him because he is laid-back). some fans would like to see emotion. jimmy smith recalls an angry dan kolb returning to the dugout and smashing a cooler - and finding that such an emotional outburst is not accepted in the braves’ dugout. this is the team of the young tom glavine who portrayed himself as the cool professional. his talent kept him at the top of the game yet his coolness turned off fans who wished to see enthusiasm, energy, emotion, caring, etc. this commentary merely is intended to stimulate thought about a “professional” looking-good, looking-cool, demeanor on a team that has so many young players who may or may not be able to successfully compete on a major league level. laroche’s gaffe was unforgivable but was not out of character. is this kind of play acceptable? benching laroche will send a message that bobby won’t accept it. now, if laroche cannot compete at this level due to the medical condition that goes untreated - do the braves allow him to remain at this level? he chooses no meds. contrast that with others who turn to banned substances to enhance performance. there may be constitutional issues here. baseball is no longer just a game, huh? and lastly, when the braves are eliminated in the post-season and the inevitable comments surface that they showed no fight, no energy - is that a product of this professional demeanor where there is no enthusiasm and/or energy?

By John Adcox

May 15, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

Here’s another round of thanks to Carolina Lady. I’ve been a part of the vocal chorus crying for a change at first just as soon as a beter option presents itself.

But I’d like to add, with all sincerity, that I in no way mean anything personal against Adam. I’m sure he’s a terrific guy (he threw my nephew a ball) and I wish him all the best life has to offer. That would be true regardless of his condition; knowing about it only deepens the feeling.

I like to see Thorman or Jurries get a chance, yes, and even more time for Brian Jordan. But in no way do I mean that I don’t respect Adam as a person, that I am not impressed and even thrilled by his accomplishments, or, God forbid, that I wish him harm!

By Duke LaCross

May 15, 2006 11:32 AM | Link to this

Hey, I have ADD and… Wow, it’s pretty outside today… My shorts are kinda tight… Oops, I dropped my pencil… Did I eat breakfast..? I love how that cursor thingy keeps blinking… Man, I gotta see a doctor about this rash… Aw, man, I missed my break… My coffee’s cold…

By John Hoar

May 15, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

About meds- am in the medical field and know some people do much better with meds, and some people, if not in the more serious psychoses, don’t do any better and the side effects can be pretty severe. So, we really don’t know do we?

Kelly Girl, I agree with you- Smoltz should stay where he is. He’s needed there and it is just too late in the season to change training regimen, etc.

By Jimi

May 15, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

What do you want BLOOD? the man said he made a mistake, get over it. Is this road rage? All you people that don’t like the Braves players need to pull for another team. The BRaves have other problems we can’t solve, thats JS’s job. LaRoche is a Brave and as long as he is I will pull for him and the TEAM. GOD BLESS THE USA and KEEP THE SOLEDAD CROSS.

By Carolina Lady

May 15, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

Everyone, your kind responses warm my heart. Thank you!

Jimmy Smith, I have to agree about the degree of professional demeanor I often see. Those times when youthful exuburance bubbles up and genuine happiness is seen are special scenes to me and I enjoy it no end! My thought is that perhaps there is confusion between taking the JOB seriously, but not yourself. Remember watching Chipper trot around the bases with that weird, don’t-know-what-to-show expression on his face? The entire world knows that if you hit a HOME RUN you’re HAPPY! So smile! Laugh! Enjoy the moment!

One last comment on running to first: I would have to question whichever coach is responsible for that part of the training/teaching. I adore Andruw, but most of the time he is SLOWING as he approaching the bag. Same for Chipper. Rarely do you see a Brave running full tilt through the bag. There have more times than a few that close plays at first certainly would have had a positive result if more effort had been applied on that 90’ dash. Just my opinion… :-)

As for Adam’s meds, I do wish he would give it some more thought. I know those drugs have a myriad of side effects, some of which are pretty bad. But it might be helpful to him and enable him to stay at this level. He has put in a lot of very hard effort to reach the majors; I hope he can improve and stay.

By B.J.

May 15, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

True enough, LaRoche’s play was probably the worst play I’ve ever seen, but what concerns me even more about this team is HOW MANY FAT FASTBALLS they continue to miss—they either swing right through it, foul it off, or TAKE the damn pitch for a strike. The Braves are not scoring runs—they are NOT hitting the baseball. I do agree that Wilson Betemit should be playing everyday, but where? I’m not sold on moving this guy to first base. Honestly, if Chipper didn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract, he would have been traded long ago, and then Wilson could start at third—AND CHIPPER COULD ACTUALLY COMMAND SOMETHING DECENT IN RETURN. That’s the TRUE answer here. However, Chipper will not waive his no-trade clause that would allow the Braves to trade him for what the team NEEDS. Example: They have NO leadoff hitter. (NO to moving Renteria up—he is the PERFECT #2 hitter.) They have inconsistency in LF (Both of these areas might be covered once Kelly Johnson comes back) Let me harp on this point for a minute: The best leadoff man and left fielder the Braves ALREADY have is currently on the shelf—Kelly Johnson. Let’s not forget about him. He KNOWS the strike zone. That’s ESSENTIAL for a leadoff hitter. He TAKES pitches—not FAT pitches (see LaRoche), but pitcher’s pitches until he gets a “hittable” strike. That’s the ONLY way that an offense can put pressure on a pitcher. First pitch outs put NO pressure on the pitchers and they limit the chances of the pitchers making a mistake by throwing a fat pitch. These are the problems with the Braves offense.

How much better would this lineup be if this trade were allowed to happen:

Chipper Jones (throw in LaRoche if you want—I sure don’t care) to Colorado for Todd Helton and Brian Fuentes? You’d cover the two most pressing needs right away—production at first base, and closer. As many of you have already said—Betemit needs to play everyday—and he PROVED last year that he is a THIRD BASEMAN. A team with 2 third basemen that could play everyday and NO closer or (production from) first baseman needs to address this. I’m sure that many would agree that this team could get much more in a trade for Chipper than Wilson (and Wilson would be cheaper to keep, which helps the payroll), however, JS is handcuffed by Chipper’s no trade clause. What amazes me more than anything is the people who cry for the team to trade Andrew, and that would be the WORST move in the history of baseball. True enough, his power numbers are a concern at the moment, but I think that those of you with this tunnel vision do not realize the value he brings to the team with his defense. Not only does he cover up more pitching mistakes than any other outfielder in the HISTORY of this game, he’s always on the field—you have to pry him out of the lineup. Why would you want to trade that? Not downplaying what Mazzone meant to these reclamation project pitchers he’s had in the past—it is Andrew Jones that gave these pitchers numbers with his defense. If you don’t believe that, then check the numbers of starting pitchers especially AFTER they left the Braves—they miss his defense. Chipper is the one that the fans should be discussing trading. In fact, that’s the only true logical player the Braves have right now that they could afford to trade and get the closest things that they NEED in return. That way, we could stick Betemit at third base. How would you like a lineup like this:

1. Kelly Johnson LF
2. Edgar Renteria SS
3. Todd Helton 1B
4. Andrew Jones CF
5. Brian McCann C
6. Jeff Francour RF
7. Wilson Bentiment 3B
8. Marcus Giles 2B
9. Pitcher

Do you see us missing Chipper if we had a lineup like this? I sure don’t. Of course, that dream trade couldn’t happen now even if Chipper was willing to wave the no-trade, because Colorado is actually playing good ball. However, it sure could’ve happened in the offseason…

By Greg

May 15, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

I’ve always given ball players, the benefit of the doubt—after all, they’re human and they make mistakes—but Adam LaRoche needs to go. That play was inexcusable. The only thing I ask of a pro is to be professional and hustle. LaRoche needs to be waived or released or whatever. He can’t hit. And now he can’t field. He can’t even hustle.

By geauxbraves2000

May 15, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

I remember a few years ago when Bobby Cox took Andruw off the field in the middle of an inning and look at the effect of that. I think he should’ve replace LaRoache right then and there and sent the same message.

On another note, The Braves won 2 out of 3 from Florida, and 2 out of 3 from Washington. So far that’s 4 out of 6 against the teams the Braves are supposed to beat. If they take 3 out of 4 from the Marlins they will have gone 7 and 3 in the teams they were supposed to beat. In my eyes that’s exactly what they were supposed to do. Good job Braves.

By Matthew

May 15, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this

Forgive me in advance for the long post, I haven’t been on here this weekend.

Loved seeing Franceour’s walk off shot. I think the Delta commercial has helped him with confidence. I mean, if you can hit a homer to Denmark, then hitting one out of the Ted should be easy right?

BJ, what more does Chipper need to do to please you? He’s already done the position switch to accomodate Vinny Castilla (that worked well). He did that, and the move likely led to many of his health concerns. There’s a reason why Chipper has a no-trade clause; he WANTS to be a Brave. I relaize that it is inconceivable in our era of selfish, money-grubbing players who, like Furcal and Sheffield to name a few, jump ship and give their undying loyalty to whoever has the biggest checkbook. Sheffield never had any loyalty to this city, and I would rather have a player who would move positions, restructure his deal, and insist on remaining a Brave. That is loyalty, and to suggest that he be traded is ridiculous. You’re not going to get Helton, even if the Rockies trade away the rest of their team. Betemit deserves to play, but maybe he is being selfish. After all, we didn’t see him taking grounders at first like Brian Jordan (another loyal class act). I don’t know anything about Betemit, but I know that if he is as golden as we all believe, then he would be just as golden at first. Moving Chipper doesn’t solve any problems, besides, no one is going to take Chipper at his price, age, and health concerns. What you suggest is counter-productive.

End of rant

Laroche frustrates me, and maybe the idea of a health plan being built into his contract would be a good idea. I think he’s trying his best, but those lapses in concentration could likely be solved with medicine. I don’t think he should be roasted because of his disability (as someone did earlier with their intelligent ADD imitation-sir, you really need something better to do that crack on a person’s disabilities. Are you headed to the nursing home next to pick on the invalids?) Anyway, Thorman would be a good call-up. He could replace Pete Orr, who is the fastest strikeout king I’ve ever seen. Pete Orr should be the next desgnated pinch runner (like the guy in Oakland in the 70s who was signed by Cahrley Finley to be a designated pinch runner…can’t remember his name). Anyway, replace Orr with Thorman, then Betemit will get a lot more PT and could possibly learn 1B in the process. Just a thought.

By Cornholio

May 15, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

Matthew,

Betemit is selfish? What does that mean? When he plays, he produces. I would trade Giles, who is a free agent anyway, and let Betemit play secondbase, and hit leadoff.

As for Chipper, he should be moved - off the roster! I see in him the same thing I saw in Dale Murphy his last few years as a Brave - a player in his declining period.

By Flaco Jimeniz

May 15, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

If Adam LaRoche can’t pay attention, he needs treatment and should be placed on the disabled list. He obviously isn’t paying attention at the plate.

Chipper “I Live for this” Jones must have attention deficit as well. It is rather telling when Edgar Renteria is intentionally walked in order to get to the easy out hitting #3 !!!

No leadoff hitter. No speed. No bullpen. No offense coming from the leftfielder, firstbaseman, secondbaseman & thirdbaseman. This is a team in decline. I look for John Schuerholz to retire before the stink takes over Turner Field !

Matt Diaz goes 5 for 5 and rides the pine the next game. Two days later the mummy on first base halfasses it to first, allowing the slowfooted, but hustling Nick Johnson to reach the base at the same time, and Bobby Cox blames the umpire for LaRoche’s attention deficit !!! Poor management !!!

By B.J.

May 15, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

Matthew: I’m not trying to coax an argument with you, but I noted hypocrisy in your post. You cite Betimet for being selfish for not taking grounders at first (even though we don’t know for sure that he’s not doing this already) on one hand, however, nothing is said about a player that refuses to waive his no-trade clause for the BETTERING of the team. As you JUST reminded us back when Chipper switched positions for what he thought made the team better at the time did NOT work out as well as it should have—NEITHER would Wilson moving OUT OF POSITION to first base be the best move for him or the team either. Left side of the diamond infielders are just that—left side of the diamond infielders. Wilson should either play short or third. Of course we are not going to replace a prototypical #2 hitter (and .350 hitter) in Renteria, so third is the most logical spot for Wilson. Why waste that arm (and not to mention put a right-handed throwing first baseman, which I honestly believe is a natural left-handed position) on first base, where it’s virtually never used?

When mentioning the desire to trade someone, it’s not always because the team doesn’t deem the player valuable, nor do they just trade players they no longer want. Teams also trade players with the hope of UPGRADING the team overall. The truth of the matter is if this streak is going to continue, the ONLY way that the Braves can do this is via trading SOMEONE. My point is that the only person that they can AFFORD to trade, and get the MOST in return is Chipper Jones. Under this line of reasoning, it is an admiration of how GOOD he IS—not how BAD he is for the team. In fact, in your defense for Chipper, you did not address my final question in my previous post. I absolutely love the proposed lineup, and I also previously indicated that it couldn’t happen, which was a point that you felt necessary to repeat.

The Mets are almost in a similar situation—they are most definitely going to have to trade someone in order to get what they NEED—a frontline starting pitcher. The only way that they are going to be able to achieve this goal is to TRADE somebody that another team would WANT. That’s the whole essence of trading. If the player isn’t WORTH trading, then who in the hell would trade FOR him? Don’t we all wish that we could make trades where we can get everything we need for absolutely nothing? Yes, there have been some bad trades in the past (especially Justice & Grissom for Lofton) but the INTENT of a trade is for BOTH teams to FILL positions that BOTH teams need to fill. Again, the only player that would bring something remotely close to what the Braves actually need—THAT THEY CAN AFFORD TO LOSE—would be Chipper. Yes, they have prized prospects in the system, but why should we decimate our system (i.e. FUTURE) to address needs that could be addressed by trading someone on the roster already that could bring the Braves EXACTLY what they need? That’s what this is all about.

By Carroll

May 15, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady, et al: Are you sure that Roach isn’t on meds right now? My understanding is that the drugs for ADHD are what turns you into a zombie. Maybe he needs to come off of the meds and let some of that hyperactivity manifest itself on the field of play.

By Carolina Lady

May 15, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

Hi, Carroll! Adam decided to quit the meds a long while back and last evening commented that perhaps he needed to reconsider them. :-)

By MGL

May 15, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Well, a lot of really good posts the last 24 hours. Some thoughts from Orlando.

Adam’s blunder was amazing, and I think that he has already been punished. He knows that there is no excuse for this. Hopefully, he will begin to play with some renewed energy and success. There are those who said that it wasn’t his fault we lost the game as there were 7 other position players and several pitchers that contributed. That is true to some extent, but this is a game of momentum, and just watching the faces and body language after the blunder, it was clear the this was a real downer for everyone on the team. One more on Adam, ADD and meds or not should not be decided by fans or the team. It is Adam’s responsibility to see that he is as fit as possible every day to compete at this level or find another position.

Regarding journalist jimmy smith’s well thought out post on enthusiasm and professionalism. It would be nice to see a lot more enthusiasm out of this team like that displayed after Frenchy’s walk-off homer. I remember watching the differences in the Astro’s and Braves dougouts during the last playoff series. It was remarkable how the Astro’s were up at the rail and intensly interested in every play while most of the Braves were nonchalontly sitting on the bench, waiting for their next bat or inning change. This happens frequently, but it would seem that if all players on the team were actively interested and cheering each other on, there would be a lot more positive energy to make things happen rather than only celebrating after big successes.

On effort: great atheletes put out whatever effort is required to be successful at their game. At times - such as an easy infield pop-ups - plays just don’t require as much effort as game saving diving catches. However, every play, pitch, or at bat deserves maximum concentration and the willingness to put forth the effort necessary to make that little piece of the game as good as it can be. The players on this team have enough talent that if they all put out that effort consistantly, there will be #15 and a WS win.

By Duke LaCross

May 15, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

As a longtime ADD sufferer, I think Adam should… Oh, look, a fly on the wall… Man, I thought I brought a Coke in here… My shoe’s untied… Wow, it’s windy outside…

By Ron Roberts

May 15, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

The Jurries talk has to stop. Folks, before you suggest a call-up, go to the minor league teams’ website and check out the stats, first. Jurries is doing at AAA what LaRoche is doing at the Major League level right now and is or has been on the DL over 20 games, thus far.

Thorman’s numbers look good. .304 BA 4 HRs 15 RBIs in 35 games - on a team where the lineup offers him little protection. But the problem with an attempt to send LaRoche down, if I’m not mistaken, is that he should have to clear waivers first, am I right? He’d need to fake a hamstring pull or something to be allowed a “rehab” assignment. I’ve never been 100% clear on sending MLB players down, but usually a player who’s been up that long is out of options, as far as demotions go. His gaffe notwithstanding, we can’t lose a guy like him on the waiver wire. But hey, if we could do it, I wouldn’t be against it, either.

Here’s the rub, folks… in the past week, though, Adam’s hitting .333 with 2 doubles, 4 RBIs and a .444 slugging percentage. His AB/K ratio had also doubled, from April to May, thus far, going from 2.7 ABs per strikeout up to 5.4 (which is NOTHING to brag about, but still an improvement), as well.

He’s a human being, though, and we all have lapses in judgement in our jobs, and the guy didn’t exactly come off as “smug” afterwards, either. He seems downright upset at himself, and has acknowledged the shortcoming. I’m more for benching him a few days and actaully keeping him off the field the rest of the homestand as much as possible, then letting him back in on the road, away from the fan venom.

And, hey, who wouldn’t like to have Todd Helton on the squad? But if we’re gonna toss out trade ideas, let’s be realistic.

By hk

May 15, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

jimmy,

… addressing your rhetorical question this morning (10:03am) “what is the difference between emotion and enthusiasm, and should the Braves show more of one or the other, or both” …

… I played alot of sports, lettered in football, wrestling and tennis in high school, pitched softball in the summer, play golf, ran marathons until a few years ago … same way with my two sons … funny, they are both quiet, gentle guys all day long every day, but when ‘in combat’ they are both very very instense … still have an image in my mind of son Rob blazing down the basketball floor, blasting his way in for a layup with the most peaceful look on his face the whole way …

… there has been alot of conversation here about hustle, going all out all the time, 110%, stuff like that … that’s not the way it works … you have to pace yourself, for all kinds of different reasons:

… Chipper, for instance, has to be very careful these days to avoid injury … to go as hard as he can to first can risk his losing playing time, or worse …

… Andruw is a relaxed, cruising sort of guy … he gets a very early intuitive sense of where he should be, therefore an early start, he has excellent visualization of time and space … when he slows down going to first, it is because he properly visualizes, where most of us might not, that the probability of making it to first in time is negligible … he saves his strength for the next ‘worthwhile’ (equals higher probability of success) effort …

… then you have a guy like Giles, who the fans love for his flat out reckless abandon style … that style has cost him (and the team) plenty, injuries from collisions, diving into the bag, etc etc … he is gradually learning to regulate his passion, but has already acquired vulnerability to future injury from accumulated damage to his body …

… same way with Jordan, we love the way he goes all out, but he has paid the same kind of prices as Marcus ..

… Frenchy is young and limber and athletic and passionate, and hopefully he will learn to curb his passions, save his energy, avoid injury, as some of the more experienced guys have …

… we all fret about our pitchers, want to nurse them along so they last, but we tend to want the position players go full blast every play … it’s a long season for both …

… you mentioned that the fans like to see emotion … jimmy, showing emotions to please the fans has nothing to do with performance on the field, in any sport …

… the emotions and intensity are definitely there in abundant supply in the Braves family … it is manefested in two different ways … one is when something neat happens, like Frenchy’s walk-off grand slam the other night, at the moment he dove head long into his teammates gathered at home plate …

… but the other (far more important, and far less obvious) can be seen at the exact instant a play happens … there and only there can you see the true passion that drives a player, and a team … it can be seen on Chipper’s face when he takes a strike when he should have taken a cut … it can be seen on Andruw’s face (and this is alot harder to read) behind that grin he gets when he has looked foolish striking out on a ball low and away … and, it could be seen yesterday on Adam’s face, at the instant he messed up .. at first, anger at the wrong call by the ump (which it was), then the realization of his awful mistake … it was there to see, plain as day, if you looked carefully …

… fans and sportswriters alike have always praised Smoltz for his calm demeanor (virtually expressionless) on the mound during adversity … because he doesn’t care or isn’t intense ??? …

… hardly ……. and it is the same with the rest of the Braves family…

… baseball has always been a game of charactor … if you want contrived enthusism, watch tennis ..

By Chop Chop

May 15, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

Andruw has a back problem right now and that is causing him some discomfort at the plate and in the outfield. I don’t have a problem with him not busting it out of the box every time he hits a grounder right at someone…and nobody is on base. It’s different if runners are on with less than two outs and he hits a grounder to an infielder. To me, he should always bust it to first in that situation to avoid a double play, if for no other reason than because he owes it to the rest of the team to try to keep the inning alive. The same goes for Chipper. Everyone knows he’s been hurt a number of times the last few years and that he has the feet of an 85-year-old granny (ask Jimmy Smith for details), but he still has to hustle to first to try to beat out double plays.

By Durango

May 15, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

Chipper can’t swing the bat too hard because he might get hurt.

Are you homers crazy?

If Chipper Jones is half-assing it to avoid injury he needs to do it on another team! He is the least productive #3 hitter in the major leagues.

By John Hoar

May 15, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

hk-Way to GO!!!! That is exactly the way that I have felt about the enthusiasm issue for a long time but you expressed it better than I could.

By Matthew

May 15, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

I didn’t realize that my post suggested that Betemit was selfish. That wasn’t my point, and I apologize for the confusion. I was actually suggesting the opposite, that it is a double standard to blast a guy for not moving to first when he has done the position switching thing before (Chipper) and not ask if Betemit had tried it. I don’t know if he has or not, and I think we’d be stupid to get rid of Betemit or Chipper. I apologize for creating the conundrum (couldn’t resist). I like Betemit a lot, and think he could be a stud player if allowed to play every day. I’m just trying to think of a way to keep betemit and Chipper in the lineup.

Bottom line: Chipper needs to finish his career with a team that appreciates him. Up until now I thought that team was the Braves. But then again, Dale Murphy wasn’t allowed to finish his career as a Brave, and neither were Glavine or Maddux. It’s a pity. I don’t know the specifics with Murphy (I was 12 when he retired, and missed seeing him play) but I do know that Glavine and Maddux both showed signs of wanting to stay.

Again, no slam on Willy B intended. I just don’t get why people expect Chipper to move when he is not a liability at third. I guess it’s like why I don’t get people asking Smoltz to go back to closing. our problems really won’t be solved unless (1) some more great kids come up like last year or (2) Mr. Blank gets the team before July 31 and lets JS make some good deals.

By Todd

May 15, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Not to be snarky, but I had to mention this: Have any of you guys blaming the loss of Leo for our slow start seen the Baltimore pitching stats lately? They’re 29th in ERA and 30th in WHIP. That’s out of 30, folks. Granted we’re not at the top, but we’re a heckuva lot better than that (12th and 19th respectively). Take Sosa out of that and we’re looking even better…

By Ricky D.

May 15, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this

Look lets be real, if Chipper’s last name was Rodrigez, he would have been gone a long time ago!!!! He is the Grant Hill of MLB!

By Zupa

May 15, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

Matthew,

The four (4) greatest Braves’ of all time - Henry Aaron, Warren Spahn, Eddie Mathews, & Phil Niekro - all Hall of Famers, none of them ended their careers in the Brave uniform.

As for Chipper Jones & his $17 million per year contract, we are not getting the “BANG” for our buck, nor have we for the past few seasons. This guy is oft-injured, and in the declining years of his career. If I were JS I would entertain offers for him just to see what could be obtained. I’d talk to Houston & Texas first, as Chipper now resides in the Lone Star State. I would not trade him unless there was a solid offer, a move that could free up some cash and enable JS to make some upgrades. This current Braves’ roster is lacking for more than just a solid closer in the bullpen. A stud firstbaseman would be nice.

By gotigers72

May 15, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this

Chipper is one of the best players in the majors, still. He hasn’t hit well for power lately, but he is hitting .297, and had a 12 game hitting streak which was broken yesterday. It was broken because Armas’ pitching was lights out. He shut everybody down, and then after the LaRoche gaffe, the air seemed to go out of the whole team.

I can’t believe any Braves’ fan would want to trade Chipper. He has been a great player, and has made sacrifices by changing positions and changing his contract to see if the Braves could get free agents, keep players they have, etc. That is very rare in pro sports these days. I believe when he blew his knee out and had to miss the whole year, it was because he was hustling and lunging for first base on a routine grounder. Maybe that’s why he doesn’t go full speed on obvious outs on routine grounders. Trading that guy would be a huge mistake. He and Smoltz remain the heart of the Braves. You can blame who you want to, but Chipper ain’t the problem. It’s only the middle of May, give them time. They need to get to .500 and then see what happens. I’m betting they will be in the middle of a pennant race in September.