AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2006 > May > 18 > Entry
Southpaw surplus on tap
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Braves don’t have a left-hander in the rotation. A month from now, they may have two.
Horacio Ramirez, sidelined in his first start by a strained hamstring, is scheduled to return May 30 against the Dodgers. Chuck James could also be starting before June is done.
The loss of Kyle Davies is a blow to the Braves, who already had questions at the end of the rotation. Davies will need surgery on his right groin and is out indefinitely.
Ramirez, after Travis Smith gets a spot start Saturday in Arizona, will replace Davies. But James may soon give the Braves an option for Jorge Sosa.
Sosa took an 0-5 record into Thursday’s game against Florida. James, recovered from a strained hamstring, will rehab at Class AAA Richmond with the mission of stretching out his arm for a possible rotation spot.
James had always been a starter in the minors before winning a bullpen spot with the Braves this spring. He wants to start again.
Unless Sosa gets untracked, James may get an opportunity to show what he can do as a starter.
Comments
By Jesus
May 18, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this
I would like to see James get a spot on the rotationn and let Sosa go back to the bullpen where he might be more effective
By John B.
May 18, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this
Hearing that Travis Smith is going to make a spot start is music to my ears..thank god I’m deaf.
Haven’t heard much about him, but what happened to Anthony Lerew? I know he didn’t make it during Spring, but how are his #’1 in AA or wherever he is? Glad to see that Chuck might/will be in the rotation soon. Sosa’s quickly becoming one of those guys that a team goes and knows they can score 4-5 runs off.
By TennesseePaul
May 18, 2006 11:38 AM | Link to this
Guy, after yesterday’s Chipper story and the following Chipper game winning homer, I was really looking for a story along the lines of how the Braves haven’t hit back to back to back to back home runs in a long time, and how it’s be a long time since the last Chipper-Andruw homer parrade. Or even a stellar outing from Sosa. DOB actually resonds to us, so I like that, but you’ve got some magic in there…
I have high hopes for James. I sure hope he does well. I like everything I’ve seen from that kid. He couldn’t possibly be any worse than Sosa. Having Smoltz, Hudson, Thomson, Ramirez and James might not be bad at all. I could see that being mixed up though. Cox likes the Left, Right, Left approach.
By dylan
May 18, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this
Lerew was brought up yesterday i thought he was going to get the start I would rather it be travis smith since lerew has been awful in the minors.
By KP
May 18, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this
Kinda makes you glad we kept all 6 starters at the beginning of the year, doesn’t it?
By MGL
May 18, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this
dylan - I read yesterday that they brought Lerew up to fill Davies spot temporarily due to pen being worked heavily. He will probably go back today as Cormier can come back. Sounds like they want to pull Smith up, but they have to juggle the roster as he is not on the 40 man. Also, Moylan probably goes back down as Paronto has shown him up.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this
somebody wake up bob and tell him it is afternoon baseball today. and where is dob? he is disappearing like bobby dews. journalist guy curtright is journalist of the day for his insightful chipper blog. but gc should avoid getting the big head because journalism has a way of humbling even the great ones. now, carolina lady … earlier posts will explain the small snafu with the hartebeest - call it clerical error. in any case, you and your mama should remain in the house when the hartebeest arrives. leave some crows out to thaw and perhaps the hartebeest will acquire a taste for them. now, about carolina lady’s garden … precautions should be taken to protect your garden. did you buy that owl we discussed?
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
The Braves promoted right-handed pitcher Anthony Lerew from Triple-A Richmond for Wednesday’s game. Lerew took the roster spot that opened when Davies was placed on the 15-day disabled list. But Lerew will likely be optioned back to Richmond on Thursday. The Braves will need that spot in order to activate Lance Cormier, who recorded two strikeouts while completing a scoreless inning for Rome on Wednesday night. It was the only necessary rehab appearance for the right-handed reliever, who has been disabled since May 3 with a strained left oblique muscle.
Horacio Ramirez, who has been out since April 5 with a strained left hamstring, will make two more rehab appearances — one on Thursday night and his final one on Tuesday. He is targeted to return to the rotation on May 30.
Because the Braves do not have an off-day between May 26 and June 11, each of the five members of the rotation — John Smoltz, Tim Hudson, John Thomson, Jorge Sosa and Ramirez — will maintain a regular schedule. But if the club chooses to remove Sosa from the rotation, there’s a chance that left-hander Chuck James could be ready to fill one of those spots during June’s second full week.
James, who has been on the disabled list with a strained right groin, an injury he sustained on May 5, began this season as the long reliever in the bullpen. It will take the 24-year-old rookie southpaw nearly a full month to prepare to be a starter again. He spent his entire Minor League career in a starting role.
The Braves still haven’t announced who will take Davies’ spot in the rotation for Saturday night’s game in Arizona, but it’s assumed they’ll go with north-paw Travis Smith, who made four starts for them in 2004. Smith is 2-1 with a 2.91 ERA in eight starts with Richmond this year.
That’s all for now.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting.
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this
This just in:
Jorge Sosa’s pitches are as fat as he is.
Film at eleven…
By teoa
May 18, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this
I tried to post this on the previous blog and got an error message…
You’re right, John B. It is obviously too much to ask for Bobby to apply common sense to his managerial decisions. Like I said earlier, Penn, there are no guarantees so the manager’s job is to go with the pitcher that gives his team THE BEST CHANCE to get out of a tough jam. Based on Remlinger’s struggles against lefties for his entire career, I believe that putting him into the game gave the Braves THE WORST CHANCE of getting out of that jam. And guess what? Remlinger predictably gave up a big hit to the lefty. Not his fault, but another example of poor game management on Bobby’s part. McBride probably wasn’t available after going 2 inn. the day before, but I think ANYONE would have been a better choice than Remlinger - preferably Kenny Ray for the reasons I mentioned earlier.
Be careful, John B., this talk of common sense managerial decisions really frightens some people here. Remember, to be a good Braves fan you are required to worship at the Altar of Cox!
By the way, very good news about getting James ready to start. That’s a great move. The Braves definitely can do any worse in that fifth starter spot no matter who they use to replace Sosa. Hopefully, James will show that he can do it for 5-6+ inn. as well as he does it for 1-2.
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
Bobby Cox’s 2,092 wins rank seventh all-time and include a franchise-best 1,737 victories with the Braves and 355 with the Toronto Blue Jays. Cox owns a career record of 2,092-1,603 and his .566 career winning percentage ranks third all-time. The Braves have won more games (1,431) in the past 15 seasons than any other team in baseball.
This humble journalist is led to believe that perhaps Bobby Cox does know a thing or two about managing…
Duke LaCross, college journalist
By hk
May 18, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this
Bob, … should have said something last night about the 1:05 start today :) … on your 2:16am post this morning, Sosa, we’ve talked about this before, think it’s a ‘neck up’ vs ‘neck down’ problem … Adam, yes, his swing is so complex, so many moving parts, that it takes added time to get in sync each year … wish he had a ‘shorten up’ variation he could go to at times, but wouldn’t mess with him now, project for the off-season … aggressiveness, that term is used alot, I like ‘focus’ better, believe that mistake he made at first will permanently improve that …
By HEAD COACH
May 18, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this
McCann is hitting in the 8 hole in front of the pitcher , what the freaking hell is Bobby Cox doing ??? The National league batting leader in the 8 hole ? Are you kidding me ? Bobby is your brain constipated ?
By forcesaberz
May 18, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this
I must say Edgar Renteria has just been awesome this year. He’s so patient and such a good hitter. Besides Furcal’s deep short throws I havent missed him one bit. I am happy with Renteria in the #2 spot now that we have a great #5 hitter in McCann (before I wanted edgar to hit 5th). Finally Andruw has protection (as we saw last night with 1st base open they decided to pitch to Andruw instead of dealing with McCann who is like the hottest hitter on the team). I must say McCann and Renteria have been very very pleasent surprises this year. GO BRAVES!!
By forcesaberz
May 18, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this
wait, I just started watching the game….he moved McCann again!!!!! what the heck? Must be b/c its a LH pitcher …. common cox, he is way to into the Lefty on Lefty stuff
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
According to Pete Van Wieren, banished to radio only, Brian McCann is hobbled by a sore ankle - bad enough to prompt Bobby Cox to drop him in the batting order, but not bad enough to keep him from playing.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this
hk, I just got up myself … Saw the diaz throw
By Jim
May 18, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this
I was a little concerned that Smoltz started the 8th inning, let alone was allowed to go as deep as he did into it. He ended up with 130 pitches on the night after throwing a complete game the start before. The bullpen has been overused, but Ray has been very efficient with his pitches and has been effective. Reitsma was probably going to get the 9th in any event, so using Ray in the 8th might have been a good option. The injury to Davies and Hudson’s inability to go deeper than 6 innings on Tuesday night with the impending short outings of Sosa and probably Smith the next 2 days can place a real burden in the long term on both Smoltz and the bullpen.
By hk
May 18, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this
…. beautiful play by Diaz, nice tag by Giles, the guy was safe, but like I said the other day, on a great play, extra effort, if it’s close the ump will give it to great play guys … and I agree …
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this
HK, I’m going to get coffee … I know Adam wants to inmrove his focus … but, when he talks about increased aggression, I don’t think he means focus.
Matt did what they wanted him to do but I liked 10 for 11 better.
By HEAD COACH
May 18, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this
Right , McCann’s catching with a bad ankle .I believe that and pigs can fly.
By forcesaberz
May 18, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this
I am pretty sure Diaz nailed him, the guy’s thigh hit the gloove before his foot hit the bag.
Also, once James comes back I still really think we should give Sosa a shot at closing, he could be real good.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this
Well, I’m back from coffee … what happened?!
By HEAD COACH
May 18, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this
Well this is getting ugly for the fish , lol. The route is on. Maybe McCann will be to rest his “bad ankle”.
By HEAD COACH
May 18, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
8 to 1 Atlanta in the fifth , Sosa is pitching well and on his way to a win , the game is on TBS on a thursday and I’m watching. Please dont wake me up , I know this is a dream. O’yea the Muts are losing , I must be in a coma.
By hk
May 18, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
… at the moment (not to be confused with the next moment), team batting average .273 …. (last nights league leader .272 !!)
… Chipper missed 13 games, his projected season RBI now 22*149/27.6 = 124 …
… Frenchy RBI … 35*162/40.7 = 139 … his 9 homers ties him with Andruw for the club lead ..
By Jim
May 18, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this
Someone suggested in a previous blog that Sosa’s arm angle this year was lower than it was last year. I have noticed in his past outings that he wasn’t getting the movement on his slider that he had last year. (He got into a lot of jams last year because of wildness. He got out of a lot of those jams because his stuff was nasty. This year he has gotten into jams more because of giving up hits and his stuff is not quite as nasty.) Can anyone notice any difference in either his delivery or the movement on his pitches today? — I am not able to watch.
By hk
May 18, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this
…you were right Bob, he went 6 (at least) … Sosa, 13 BB 16 SO, year to date (29 innings), today through 5, zero BB, 8 SO … talk about good news !!!
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
As to Brian McCann’s alleged sore ankle, the source was Pete Van Wieren. (I don’t make this stuff up… what do you think I work for CBS or something?)
In a related report, pigs were seen over Turner Field.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting.
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
Breaking news: Jorge Sosa pitching effectively!
In a related report, pigs were seen over Turner Field.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting.
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
According to Don Sutton, pitching coach Roger McDowell has been working with Jorge Sosa regarding pitch location. Allegedly, Sosa has so much movement on his pitches, when he throws off the plate, they tend to move back over the plate. McDowell has him pitching to the plate, thus his pitches move away from middle. The plate could not be reached for comment.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this
Hi Ho …Primosabe to the rescue … again!
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this
Tomorrow’s Lead … Andrew bound for a breakout
By hk
May 18, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this
… wow !!! … Jeff’s total bases have gone from 76 to 86 today, (Andruw now 2nd with 77) ..
… Mets down 6-2 (7th) … Milwaukee just closed to within one of Philly, 4-3 (7th) …
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this
You guys confused me … Unless I’m missing something… It’s Pratt with the bad ankle … that’s why McCann was in the lineup against the lefty … and batting 8th.
By hk
May 18, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
… for you youngsters, on Bob’s
“Hi Ho … Primosabe to the rescue … again!”
… above,
‘Hi Ho’ = ‘Hi Ho Silver’
‘Pronto = ‘Tonto’
… and, most subtly,
‘Primosabe’ = ‘Kimosabe’
… ‘from out of the past come the thundering …..’ ..
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting:
This just in: College journalist misquotes Braves announcer; millions confused, including college journalist. Pratt injured, not McCann! Ankle could not be reached for comment.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting.
By hk
May 18, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
… Milwaukee up 5-4 in the 8th !! .. mets still down 6-3 (8th)..
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this
HK, I’ll bet everybody knew that … I started to make it “William, tell everybody that it’s Primosabe to the rescue … again!
By hk
May 18, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this
… oh Bob, you’re always making ‘Overtures’ … sorry, a little giddy … can you imagine, 3 1/2 out of first!! … and maybe only one game behind Philly (trailing 5-4 going into the 9th) ..
By teoa
May 18, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, you cite regular season stats for Bobby Cox, and I have stated he is a great regular season manager, when lineup decisions are much less important. But when it comes to the postseason, when all the teams are talented and strategy becomes much more important, he has obviously been a huge failure — an unprecedented failure even. I respect your opinion — you believe his regular season record indicates that he can do no wrong — but if you were to examine his game decisions, you would realize that statistically speaking his decisions often do not give the Braves their best opportunity to win a game. Remlinger last night was the perfect example. You survive that move in May against the worst team in baseball…You definitely do not survive that move in October against the Yankees, as Braves fans have seen time and time again. I wish Bobby could just do what he does best — manage the clubhouse, motivate all his players to give good effort (well, almost all his players), promote good team chemistry, teach good fundamental baseball, be a positive presense in the dugout — and give the lineup decisions and pitching changes to someone capable of thinking beyond left/right matchups. Strategically, baseball is a much more complex game than Cox makes it, and most other managers know this. Give me Bobby for the regular season, but give me anyone else in the playoffs.
By hk
May 18, 2006 04:05 PM | Link to this
… Phillies lose as well !!! (that’s 1 1/2 games behind them, got a little carried away)..
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
Yeah, but nobody ever pays me no mind … I ntended “William, tell Chad it’s Primosabe to the rescue … again!” I kinda misread my notes while watching the game. Phillies lost!!
By btoy
May 18, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this
I didn’t read every post so maybe I missed it. But I saw on Foxsports or some other site that Anthony Lerew was called up and was scheduled to start Saturday.
By MBATL
May 18, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this
teoa, which managers do you think are superior in the post-season to Bobby? Seems to me we haven’t had a repeat WS winner except for the Yanks of the late ‘90’s in well over a decade (and Torre can’t seem to ‘strategize’ a WS win in this millinium despite double the payroll of virtually any other team). If there was a special talent for post-season managing, seems like somebody would’ve mastered it.
Guillen, Francona, Mckeon, Brenly? Which of these guys is a better manager than BC, regular season or post? Tony Larussa has had probably the best talent in baseball this decade, but got whiffed 4-0.
The (stupidly) short “divisional series” (why give the Wildcard team the advantage of short series?), and overall parity, have made winning a WS title a crapshoot; the only thing ANY mgr can do is get there, put their players on the field just like they did all season, and hope the ball bounces right.
By Greg
May 18, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this
One disadvantage Bobby and all NL managers have in the Series, their AL counterparts have a full-time pinch hitter in their DH. NL teams go into the series with some platoon or utility guy at DH. AL teams have somebody like Travis Hafner or Jim Thome. It’s a major advantage for the AL.
By Chop Chop
May 18, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this
btoy, Lerew was sent back down to Richmond today so that Lance Cormier could be activated from the DL. My guess is that Travis Smith is going to start Saturday. In other words, the balls will be flying out of Chase Field. Why do I say that? Well, in 107.3 career IP in the bigs, Travis has given up 23 homers. His career big-league ERA is 6.62.
By hk
May 18, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this
Bob, … suffering from euphoria, I know, but … top league Batting Averages through today …
1-Arizona ….(.2735) 2-Milwaukee…(.2729) 3-Braves……(.2720)
… that Jeff / Denmark commercial is one of the best I’ve ever seen … really grows on you, says alot about baseball ..
By MBATL
May 18, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this
Greg, agreed… and add to that the ridiculous rule to give the All-Star game winner home field. I think it should alternate (not be based on best record, because an NL team is playing a different schedule than an AL team). So, because of some stupid exhibition game that for some reason the AL seems to dominate lately, the AL has the advantage of 4 DH games most years.
By Paul Hamilton
May 18, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this
Well I’m not jumping for joy over seeing Ramirez coming back to the rotation. This guy started his career great and has fallen off each year since. After last season, it’s a tossup between him and Sosa. If the guy could just keep the ball in the ballpark he would be solid, but homeruns are a big problem for him, especially game changers. I really hope he comes back healthy and energized, but I’m not getting my hopes up. The sale of the Braves needs to go through soon, so they can start planning out what they are going to do with this rotation. I have a feeling after next year, John Smoltz will retire. Mike Hampton I think will finally be off the books, so that leaves Hudson and who else?? Smoltz and Hampton make like a combined 26 million a year, that is some serious money to spend on pitching. That is assuming the Braves reinvest that money into pitching. Are there any really solid young stars that will be availabe in the next few years??
By John B.
May 18, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this
GC, say something about ‘Druw hitting 3 HRs against the D’backs. Chipper got it last night, Sosa today..looks like you’re on a roll bud. Keep it goin
By Duke LaCross, college journalist
May 18, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this
Duke LaCross, college journalist replying:
This just in: teoa speaks from both sides of mouth! He initially states “You’re right, John B. It is obviously too much to ask for Bobby to apply common sense to his managerial decisions” in reference to a regular season game. Then he follows by saying, “I have stated he is a great regular season manager, when lineup decisions are much less important. But when it comes to the postseason, when all the teams are talented and strategy becomes much more important, he has obviously been a huge failure.” Hmmm, this humble college journalist wonders which one it is…
In a related event, teoa, you say also, “I respect your opinion — you believe his regular season record indicates that he can do no wrong.” Where did I say that? I did say, “This humble journalist is led to believe that perhaps Bobby Cox does know a thing or two about managing.” This humble college journalist believes you are drawing conclusions. The conclusions could not be reached for comment.
Duke LaCross, college journalist reporting.
By brewerfaninATL
May 18, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
This just in: Brewers 5, Phillies 4!! A clean sweep of the Phillies and after taking 2/3 vs. Mets it makes me wonder why the Brew Crew can’t touch the Dodgers with a 10-foot pole…oh well, some teams have certain hexes over others. Anyway, good job Braves, now it’s VERRRRRRRRY interesting in the East! Time for my Brewers to kick the crap out of the Twins! Good luck in Arizona!
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
whew! journalist jimmy smith has succeeded in diverting shipment of the ugandan hartebeest to another address. carolina lady will be greatly relieved. of course, jimmy smith feels badly about how he had to accomplish this feat. journalist has placed hartebeest with a family who somehow may think the hartebeest is a puppy. jimmy smith never really said that. in any case, carolina lady, the hartebeest will not be making an appearance at your house today. let’s hope the family accepts the hartebeest for a pet and does not forward it to carolina lady’s address that was on the shipping container. now, sosa … better haircut - better results. now, francoeur … why do they throw pitches he can reach? now, paronto … no runs scored against big man with no neck and no nickname. only 1 earned run in six innings. now, journalists … many, many, journalists now on this blog. one is missing - most important one. where is dob?
By Jim
May 18, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this
What is the role of the bench coach? Isn’t he supposed to be like an offensive or defensive coordiator? Should Corales take some of the blame for strategy deficiencies? Maybe Torre is less of a genius these days because Don Zimmer is no longer there to advise him!!!
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this
Teona, the extent to which you posit when you should opine never ceases to amaze me.
That “he has obviously been a huge failure” is a bit strong, don’t you think?. I’m sure that you do agree with the adage “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” so what appears obvious to you might appear somewhat oblique to others.
We’ve had enough exchanges for me to know that you’re cognizant of the complexities associated with in-game deciaions and know that the cell sample sizes, “when all of the relevant elements are taken into consideration”, are too small to properly use “statistically speaking” in an argument … unless your tounge is curled up into the side of your cheek.
From my perspective, I opposed the “Remlinger” move too … but, it could be that Bobby’s decision was sound and based on factors that I wasn’t considering … and, had we been playing in a Post Season game under similiar comditions, … “I don’t really see how we could be so doing since the other team whold have had to be playing like Flordia did yesterday” … there’s nothing to suggest that Bobby’s decision matrix would have been the same.
By hk
May 18, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this
… hey Chop, Chop, looks like I’m wrong so far, said we’d be 5 games out by June 1, here we are at 3 1/2 (of course I know full well it could be 8 out by then, but had to say something) ..
By Jim
May 18, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this
The Brewers are in the wrong division. If they were in the NL East they would be 8 - 1 now against the Braves, Mets, and Phils.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this
Jimmy Smity Smith … I see that the Ugandan journalist of distinction doesn’t like my nickname for no-neck Paronto … and it’s a “P” word too.
Maybe it’s good that the delivery of the “puppy” was delayed … could be wrong but seem to remember that The Lady’s Mother was due to come home yesterday.
By brewerfaninATL
May 18, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this
Jim,
Actually we are 9-3 against the East. The Mets took 2/3 from us in Shea back in April. Against the West we are 4-7, including 1-5 vs. the Dodgers and Padres. Go figure! We’ll see how tough the Brewers are next week when we play 3 in Philly…could be VERY interesting considering how the Brewers won these 3!
By teoa
May 18, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this
MBATL, I don’t claim that there is a perfect strategy that will guarantee playoff victories…But I do think there is an imperfect strategy. In my opinion, Bobby’s managerial strengths are negated in the postseason because everyone is motivated — that is no longer an issue. At that point, all you can do is put your best players on the field, put your pitchers in situations that give them the best opportunity to succeed, and hope for the best. But Bobby frequently doesn’t do that — the numbers don’t lie. In years past, I have found myself wishing that other managers would employ Bobby’s mindless left/right strategy so the Braves wouldn’t be at such an obvious disadvantage: “Don’t you know you’re supposed to take out all your best left-handed hitters when we’re pitching Glavine?” But no, unfortunately no one else knows that. Everyone else knows they are better off leaving their best left-handed hitters in the lineup A.) Because you are better off with your best hitters in the lineup regardless of which side of the plate they stand on and B.) Glavine is actually better against righties than lefties, so it doesn’t make sense to play it by the book even if you are inclined to do so.
For this reason, I would hypothetically trade out any of those managers for Bobby for the playoffs, just because I think each of them would do a better job of letting the best players determine the outcome of the games — that’s all you can ask for. In my opinion, there are a lot of managers that if given 14 opportunities in the postseason would have won more than 1 championship. Of course, I realize the Braves wouldn’t make the playoffs every year with most of those managers, so this argument is entirely hypothetical. I am not saying Bobby is not a good manager, and I don’t look forward to the day he is gone, because it will be very hard to replace him.
Regardless, I am going to put this debate to rest for now. Maybe I’m not clearly separating my criticism of Bobby’s game decisions from my belief that he is a great manager. I know a lot of people here get very offended at anything that even sounds like criticism of Bobby. Anyway, thanks MBATL for the opportunity to clarify.
By hk
May 18, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this
… team era down to 4.27 (6th in league) … lowest it’s been in a long long time …
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this
I could claim that the “Smity”, an acceptable alternate for “smitty”, was intentional … or that it was unintentional … I’m not sure what it was, but it surely surprised me to see it there.
I missed the first three innings and am going to listen to them on mlb.com.
Later.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this
The AJC.com site continues to have the false “Page no longer exists” when you refresh the page. Interestingly, a double refresh works.
By teoa
May 18, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this
By the way, I am very encouraged by what I see right now…My three ideas yesterday that offended so many have already been implemented, or are now in the works:
Maybe all my opinions aren’t so stupid afterall, huh?
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this
Teoa, I don’t doubt what you say … but I can’t imagine anyone being offended by ideas that have already been implemented.
HoHo, if you see this later … thinking back, I think that Hank actually played every position at sometime during his career … except the battery positions … going back to when Thompson’s broken bone kept him with the “big club” … maybe just parts of one or two games, but he did it all the same.
By Voice of Reason
May 18, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this
I believe that it is very easy to go back and pick out obvious wrong managerial decisions with the benefit of hindsight. No manager is infallible, not even BC. Bobby has distinct tendencies that, while they drive some of us crazy, are completely consistent. That is one of the reasons players love playing for him - he is 100% consistent down the line. While that may cost a game here and there, it wins more in the long run. Does that support the regular season vs. playoffs argument? Maybe, but let’s not pin the playoff losses solely on BC’s shoulders, OK? I think there is plenty of credit to be shared. Here’s a little to Lonnie Smith. Here’s some to Eric Gregg. Oh, and more importantly, can we give a little real credit to the guys who won it? To hear it told here, nobody has won a playoff series against the Braves, the Braves lost them all. How about in ‘91. BC didn’t lose that one, Smoltz was great but Jack Morris was greater. My point is simple: it’s easy to point a finger at the one guy who has guided ATL to each of those playoff series, but in each of those series, there were 25 other guys in each dugout that had some impact on the outcome.
By Penn
May 18, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this
From that other blog:
By Penn
May 18, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this
John B. wrote, “Remlinger has been just slightly less effective against left handed batters? No, he has been horrible against left handed batters. He is fine against right handers, but sucks against lefties.”
My oh my, all you baseball experts frighten me. Right handers are hitting .250 against Remlinger and left handers are hitting .320. Like I said righties have been slightly less effective against him than lefties. But I guess 70 points qualifies as “horrible.” I’ll leave further semantics to you boys.
The discussion was not about whether or not Cox left Smoltz in too long but about Remlinger and I did point out that Smoltz did in fact dig the hole Rem was put into.
One thing is for sure, Cox haters are always going to be Cox haters regardless of whether his team is 9-2 in their last 11 games and have gained from 9 down to the Muts to down 3 1/2 tonight, a gain of 5 1/2 games in about 10 days. Cox is a dog I guess. That decrepit old man, now approaching senility, has not won his 15th yet and when he does he will still be a dog to his detractors.
If all it took to manage a team was to go by the numbers anyone with a laptop could do it. I wonder why you aren’t managing a major league team John B.
By Voice of Reason
May 18, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this
Very true, Penn. Cox detractors will always be Cox detractors and Cox supporters will always be Cox supporters.
I promise never again to say “Cox supporters” because it really doesn’t sound right… especially if you say it fast…
By teoa
May 18, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this
.320 is not good, Penn. If a hitter hits .320 he is an all-star. .250 makes you below average. BIG DIFFERENCE. So by bringing in Remlinger to face a lefty, you automatically make the hitter an all-star. Is that good strategy in a crucial 8th inning situation? Wouldn’t there be a better strategy? Of course. And it doesn’t require hindsight to see it.
Penn, your insults of John B. are unwarranted and obviously you are (intentionally) mis-stating his arguments. John never implied that he could do a better job, and you know it. It’s really okay to question baseball strategy on a baseball blog. I promise. Relax.
It’s okay to say “sucks” too, even though I know that offends you just as much. In fact, I think it would be preferable if you just wrote that all opinions that defer from yours “suck” rather than twisting people’s words and labeling us “Cox haters”. I have said repeatedly that I wouldn’t trade him for anyone except maybe Torre, so you clearly are not expressing yourself in a proper manner to use the word “hater” in this situation. Might want to work on that, Penn. Take your own advice: the way people express themselves on the internet is of the upmost importance. Right?
By teoa
May 18, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this
Funny, Voice of Reason.
By teoa
May 18, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this
Bob, the ideas I mentioned either did not happen or were not implemented until today. That’s why some people were offended: because I blasphemed and actually offered some opinions on my own that ran the risk of being contradictory to those held by God Cox. As it turned out, my ideas were in-line with God Cox’s this time, so I suppose they were alright after all, and maybe some people overreacted just a bit. That’s all I meant.
I apologize for having to say “I told you so” but I think Joe Roman and Penn were on the verge of calling for me to be burned at the stake.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this
Penn, there are alot of mechanical managers but not many manage very long … and most are lower level managers at that.
The emphasis by the losers will always be on short series results … because otherwise, they would have nothing to say.
During the past 14 years, we’ve played pretty well in the playoffs and certainly players, not managerial decisions, determined the outcome of most of the games; including two of the world series that we lost … and the one we won.
The playoff structure is what it is for marketing reasons … nothing else. Think of the inane notion of allowing teams that didn’t win their own division … the opportunity to even play for the Championship … and deciding the first level of the playoffs on the basis of 3 victories. It may be exciting … but it’s a joke to seriously praise or damn on the outcome.
Seems like Houston’s manager is to be exalted because they won an eighteen inning game and our’s to be discredited because of the same game. Many folks focus on the “straw” as opposed to the total load being carried by the “humpted back” creature!
crowning as World Champion a team that that barely won as many games
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this
Obviously, the form didn’t transfer my last paragraph which was an “what if” regarding the Padres … not of importance. selah
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this
I’m out of here for a while … would appreciate it if someone could tell me if bears hibernate when weather conditions remain constant throughout the year. I’ll loke for an answer when I return … thanks!
By teoa
May 18, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this
Bob, players can’t win or lose playoff games when they are not on the field. When one game can easily turn a series, all it takes is keeping your best players off the field for one game. It is a managerial decision to do this, and Bobby does it every year. Surely you are not suggesting that strategy has no affect on the outcome of sporting events? There are a lot of coaches and players all over the world that would strongly dispute that claim.
By don
May 18, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
what happen to jeff torborg on braves telecasts
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this
Teoa, I basically agree with all but “… and Bobby does it every year”. That’s a strong statement to make, even for you.
Seriously, it’s hard for to say who the “best players” are … without putting it into context … If Betimet was the best at stealing the catcher’s signs, I’d probably put him in the bleachers with binoculars and a cell phone, but if he were the best at picking the Pitcher’s tipping his pitches, I’d have him in the boxes behind home plate.
I suppose that you are saying … the best players, considering all relavent factors at gametime; including the manager’s expectations as to how the game will unfold … and since we have less information than he … in regard to those factors and issues; it’s hard for me to make the jump to … “he obviously was right” or “he obviously was wrong”.
My “second sight” just isn’t that good … but I can “second guess” with the best of them.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this
don, word is that he’ll return this weekend … but, it may be that FOX is testing the water … to check Brave Fan reaction. They may be finding that abruptly replacing “traditional” coke with “new” wasn’t the best of decisions … and looking for alternatives. I wouldn’t be surprised to either see a “classic” imitation or some different flavor combinations tried before it’s put to bed; sometime after they have a chance to evaluate the impact of the change in Braves Ownership.
By MBATL
May 18, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this
I heard Torborg just had a European Vacation (or something like that) already planned and Fox accommodated. Don’t know that it’s true… I think I read it on this blog a couple of weeks ago - so consider the source!
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this
Jimmy Smith, I don’t know how to tell you this….. but you must not have been quite quick emough to avert the shipment…. and my UPS man is not real happy with you right now… You should see his truck! Big brown truck is right!
At the last minute this evening, I caught the guy at the seed & feed co and he is delivering 400 lbs of high-grade hartebeest feed in the morning. Do you have any idea how much that stuff costs???
But I thank you for all the trouble you went through and for your thoughtfulness!
I saw the Hartebeest eyeing some of the does out back. Is there such a thing as a Deerharte? Will let you know in Feb.
I tried my best to describe to Mother how this animal came to be here, but apparently one “had to be there” because all I got was a really ODD look in response. (How does one describe my beloved cousin Jimmy Smith to anyone?? and the SEAL!) Big hug to Baby Seal.
By Penn
May 18, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this
teoa, if I have something to say to you I’ll say it. John B jumped my case and I responded. It had nothing to do with you so bug out. You are about as welcome in this conversation as a case of the stomach virus would be.
By ncscoots
May 18, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this
Hey, Bob journalist jg…I was reading thru the blog, and you just became my newest bestest friend with the “posit when you should opine”…oh, man, the sheer erudite-ness of it! God loves a man who loves the English language, bro!
By MGL
May 18, 2006 09:09 PM | Link to this
ALERT!! Major problems in Florida! Wild Hartebeest broke loose at Miami UPS depot. Seen headed toward the keys. Half of park service personnel pulled of alligator hunting duties to find wild beast. Major concern for population of key deer. If Hartebeest mates with key deer, big problems could happen. Key deer are very small, Hartebeest is very big. Very large keybeasts could be the result. Knowing hartebeest desire for crows, major concerns have developed for favorite key bird the pelecan. Florida wildlife service is reported to have issued warrant for some unnamed ugandan journalist. Stay tuned for details.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this
HK, I’m somewhat dissappointed to see so many using “strategy” to describe single point decisions that are based on a vector rather than a multi-dimentional matrix … regardless of the fact that they technically qualify to be so called.
To me, that’s simply making a move based on the current situation.
Many times, I have seen Bobby make a move that was effectively countered by the opposing manager … so as to make Bobby appear outmaneuvered … only to find him, later in the game, complete the “strategy” with a checkmate.
It appears that many folks look primarily at the effect rather than the cause. It’s like blaming the coach or QB for calling a pass play that should have worked but the end dropped the ball.
There’s no question in my mind that certain players aren’t quite up to the task of quickly changing gears from “even keel business” baseball to “urgency of the moment” baseball. Come the end of the season, we may find that, as a group, these players have that ability.
By MGL
May 18, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this
Penn, teoa seems to have a problem with too much cheese - is very constipated! Also must have a broken mirror, as his ego has just gone completely out of whack. Hopefully he will feel better in a day or two and become a normal human being. Be a good guy and give him time.
By brian
May 18, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
I just read on espn that JT Snow will be traded from the Red Sox. I am well aware he is not a huge bat, but would people consider him an upgrade at 1B? At only $2 million he would fit the bill. I would try Thormon first myself, but he is the main 1B listed on rumor mill
By ssiscribe
May 18, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this
Wow, if you didn’t know any better, you’d think this baseball team we all follow actually was pretty good or something.
Sure, it’s the Nats and Marlins, but I look at it like this: First, the Braves, Phillies and Mets all will have 38 games against those two dregs this season, so might as well beat up on ‘em when you can. Second, a 6-1 homestand is a 6-1 homestand, I don’t care if you’re playing a high school team.
So, so good to see Frenchy swinging it well. I wasn’t among those wanting him sent down, but I did want him to sit on the bench for a game or two (that’s an answer to the Bradley blog, by the way). He looked so lost three weeks ago. Now, he’s hitting it all over the place, and hard, too. Glad to see the stroke back. Heck, best with some kids like him to just let him ride the ups and downs and go with it. At the end of the day, there’ll be far more ups than downs.
Matt Diaz’s is not gonna be a starter on this team with the outfielders in front of him, but he’s been so darn red hot lately, you almost hate to take him out of the lineup when the ballclub goes west.
Anybody out there shocked at Sosa today? I still think he may end up in the bullpen when the roster/rotation shuffle is finished, but he really was sharp today. About time, too.
Three walkoff wins since Saturday, and big games by the big guns. That’s the way to fire up the home folks.
Finally, I’ll close this post of random thoughts (sorry Jimmy, no transitions here; just finishing up a monster story as well as juggling the various daily stories/pages/tasks, etc., along with family and so forth) with this thought: Eleven days ago, I sat in Miami on a Sunday morning, and the Braves were one loss away from falling 10 games back. Right now, Atlanta sits 3 1/2 games out of first.
To quote a good buddy of mine, “here we come, y’all. Here we come.”
I’ve preached patience through the first two months, even when I wanted to scream myself. Now, with the big hole whittled down so quickly, I think we all see that, when things get going right, this is a very good baseball team.
It’s one that is going to make the next five months of our lives pretty darn special, I think.
From the SSI, see ya bye!
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this
MGL, your 9:09 post is great! Thanks for the smiles!
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this
SSIScribe, I really enjoy your posts and your perspectives! Thanks for taking the time to join us on this blog! :-)
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this
cheese, seals, hartebeest, crows, and just a taste of baseball -this is a very fine blog. but, no toes. we must talk healthy toes if this blog is to be constructive. and where is dob? and, carolina lady … are you teasing jimmy smith? the hartebeest was not shipped ups - a very large stamp was procured and he was mailed, usps. perhaps he was delivered to a neighbor by mistake. and, who is this new journalist? where is the seb/sja/rr? and where is bob the ugandan journalist?
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
Now I understand, Jimmy! Our dear sweet mail lady was last seen in tears, babbling incoherently, and was gently taken to The Oaks for evaluation. No one could figure out what happened to her - until now! I guess David, our UPS guy, tried to lend a hand, nice person that he is….. You really should have seen that truck. It might be back in service by the first of the week.
Where did they stick the stamp??
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
LOL, All
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this
nose! nose! what is lady thinking? this is a family blog. baby seal is reading! actually, hartebeest has an elongated and prehensile nose well suited to affixing a large postage stamp. as to the messy truck … blame it on cheese.
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
LOL LOL LOL
By geechee
May 18, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this
“At only $2 million he would fit the bill. I would try Thormon first myself, but he is the main 1B listed on rumor mill”
Where would the Braves get the $2 million? If they had $2 million extra sitting around they would have found us a pitcher already.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, is that a demotion or promotion that you gave me?
Nice to hear from The Lady … looks like her pen and mind are sharp today!
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this
SITTING ON THE BENCH AT TURNER FIELD - and journalist jimmy smith is reminded of another bench - johnny bench. baby brave brian mccann reminds jimmy smith of johnny bench with more hair - but not much more hair. in fact, mccann reminds jimmy smith alot of johnny bench. if mccann keeps playing as he is now, maybe johnny bench wll be compared to mccann someday. whew! journalist must rest. scribe is a hard act to follow. road trip!! jimmy smith is off the wagon - cheese and root beer tonight. cheetos on the plane.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this
bob, there is a warrant out for the ugandan journalist. jimmy smith is now from cordele. y’all remember that, now.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this
geechee,
The rumor mill has it that no selfrespecting player would take $2 million … it’s demeaning. Goodness, good lawyers won’t take a case for that.
But if they can’t find a use for such a trivial amount … I know of 1000 orphans where it might a real difference in their lives … like survival for a year!
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, I love it! How did the journalist from Cordele like “Primosabe” Paronto?
I didn’t realize that folks paid much attention to the timestamps, but I sure needed sleep … missed the first 3 innings today!
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, the police were just here….wanted to know if I had knowledge of one J. Smith and some sort of beest. I denied everything…told them they’d have to go look for their wildebeest or hardybeest - or whatever they were looking for - somewhere else. I told them to just leave me and my new cow alone! Got some funny looks but they left. I think you’re safe!
By brian
May 18, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this
When James returns from the DL we will have 6 starters and one will be moved. Do you trade Thomson while he is hot or if Sosa has a few good outings do you trade a young, live arm (that has underachieved)?
Thomson could help get the Braves a big bat or RP
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this
Turner Field is a long walk from Cordele! Good Boiled peanuts though, as I recall.
By baby seal
May 18, 2006 10:48 PM | Link to this
is there warrant for baby seal? journalist jimmy smith almost accidentally mail baby seal to carolina lady instead of hartebeest. baby seal not comfy cozy in us mail. prefer first class. oes dob travel first class or us mail? brian mccann is first class. baby seal report that brian mccann lives in lawrenceville. actually baby seal read other journalist report on mccann house. baby seal hope to have dinner at mccann house. eat ice cream.
baby seal think jorge sosa maybe ok closer, or scary pitcher called none. lack of neck intimidate other players. chuck james starter when get back. right now on dl getting toes straightened out.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this
journalist is sure bob only took a cat-nap. bob is to be congratulated on the primosabe nickname - this will be a credit to paronto when he becomes famous like chipper jones. did bob catch the interview with chipper today? does bob know the whereabouts of journalist dob? journalist jimmy smith thinks dob may be wary of a blog with so many journalists.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
Hello My lady! Wildebeest … that’s good misdirection … if they’re looking for one of those … no wonder they didn’t recognize your strange looking cow. It would probably fool most South Georgia cops too!
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this
Actually several, thanks, no, no, and perhaps.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this
Baby Seal’s picture not in Post Office but your comments are … they warrant close consideration. However, I’m not sure that osmosis is a good drink for Jimmy to be giving Baby Seal as knowledge stimulant and catalyst … Coca Cola is better.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this
carolina lady!! do not milk the hartebeest!! journalist jimmy smith hopes carolina lady is pulling jimmy smith’s toe, but just in case … never, never, attempt to milk a hartebeest!! jimmy smith could tell you some stories from back home in u . . cordele. the hartebeest is not to trifled with. journalist remembers well the unfortunate incident with journalist dwabi o’brien back home … last man to attempt milking a hartebeest. jimmy smith thanks you for not giving up journalist jimmy smith to the authorities.
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this
Hi, Bob-journalist-jg! Thanks! Anything to throw them off the scent! :-))
Baby Seal, this lady would never let anyone harm you. Events in Canada had to have been terrible enough! Were you a Expos fan?
By ssiscribe
May 18, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this
I live along the Southeast Georgia coast and just had a knock at my door. Two well-dressed cops were there, looking for one Journalist Jimmy Smith.
Being a journalist myself, they came to me first. Being a journalist myself, I know a little something about throwing off those who don’t need to be snooping (hey, how else to protect a beat and get all the scoops!)
I told them I think Jimmy Smith was doing some advance scouting and was in Chicago, and the authorities seemed impressed with that notion.
No mention of baby seals during our conversation. So, Jimmy, stay away from the Windy City and you’ll be fine.
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, I just convinced our local constabulary that this was my new ‘cow’. There is family honor to protect! Four members of our family have been in law enforcement, including one police CHIEF. There is no way one of us can land in the slammer and dishonor the family name, now is there?? Whew! Close one!
By geechee
May 18, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this
“geechee, The rumor mill has it that no selfrespecting player would take $2 million … it’s demeaning. Goodness, good lawyers won’t take a case for that.”
Bob, We must have many players lacking in self-respect because only 9 Braves earn more than $1 million a year and 15 Braves earn under $500,000 per year.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, are you sure that David ever returned … AJC may have paid someone to impersonate him for a couple of days, just to take the heat off Guy.
Then someone came up with the “Chipper bound for a breakout” thing and Guy’s byline was back … today was business as usual … with the “old” Guy again back in Gene’s saddle … so to transitionally sing.
Maybe David is hiding out in Cordele.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 18, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this
Only 9 Braves earn more than $1 million a year and 15 Braves earn under $500,000 per year … Goodness!
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this
SSIScribe, you are a skillful and savvy accomplice, uh, journalist! Your assistance is greatly appreciated! Jimmy always has the very best intentions, but sometimes things go awry. True Braves fans must stick together!
By journalist jimmy smith
May 18, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this
thank you scribe and thank you carolina lady. journalist jimmy smith is greatly relieved. jimmy smith never considered all the possible repercussions of helping carolina lady rid her yard of crows. journalist thinks carolina lady should buy the owl at home depot (for crow riddance) and sell the new “cow” at auction. speaking of home depot, jimmy smith left today in dismay. does no one work at home depot anymore? no one would help jimmy smith today. bob nardelli must do something about this or jimmy smith will sell his hd stock. wait, jimmy smith won’t sell at $38!! what’s going on here? subtle transition in above post. journalist is working on this and hopes to try multiple transitions in future posting. g’night, blokes.
By Carolina Lady
May 18, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this
I’m mystified as to the whereabouts of our DOB! Not being familiar with Cordele, I checked it out, and just wondered if perhaps DOB is in Cordele researching a story on the dedication of their new Equalization Flow Pond. If he has been out of touch, he may not realize that the Braves are headed the other way now and it doesn’t appear that they will have need of those facilities. Or is he looking for a repository for this blog…..
By Hal
May 18, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this
ive seen several inquirys about how minor leaguers are doing so did a quick serch of the minor league sites heres some stats for you guys to mull At Richmond Tony Pena is hitting.351- 0-4 Wes Timmons .314-4-15 Scott Thorman .299-5-16 J.J.Jurries .235-2-16 At Mississippi Martin Prado .288-1-12 Yanel Escobar .273-0-13 J. Saltalamacchia .213-4-16 Josh Burris .188-0-5 At Rome Kelly Johnson .533-0-2 Kala Kaaihue .314-9-26 Max Ramerez .303-3-17 Eric Cambell .297-7-28 Elvis Andrus .244-1-20 At Myrtle Beach Onil Joseph .318-1-9 Brandon Jones .279-2-19 some of the betteer thought of minor leaguers if anyone wants ill post the pitchers tomorrow
By journalist from cordele
May 18, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this
journalist jimmy smith must go to bed - all these extra inning games! but first, jimmy smith must tout cordele- watermelon capital of the world. this is true - you may look it up. sweet tasting and abundant - ah, the cordele watermelon. nothing like watermelon, cheese, and root beer to keep a journalist sharp. the watermelon helps with the cheese induced constipation. this should be quite helpful to dob.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 19, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this
geechee, I certainly like your way with words … like “earn”. Actually, I didn’t realize how many had it so bad … they probably deserve more than they have and the reference I made earlier was probably inappropriate … and it’s best that my point was lost in the shifting sands of misdirection.
We should certainly be more understanding of the Nouveau Riche … especially when they’re so young … the downstream ramifications of media economics it’s not their fault.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 19, 2006 12:47 AM | Link to this
Most of my comments are either nonsense or urging folks to nice and ponder before the pounce … things like that … but, from where I sit, today’s game was one of the three most encouraging that I’ve seen this year. See you no later than 9:30 p.m.
By teoa
May 19, 2006 01:57 AM | Link to this
Bob, glad I’m here to “posit” (definition: To put forward, as for consideration or study…uh, isn’t that what internet blogs are for? Not sure where you were trying to go with that.) And happy that you are so “amazed” by my humble opinions. I find it interesting how some are so quick to resort to personal attacks rather than enter into a civil debate — you know, with factual information, point, counter-point, articulate opinions, etc.
Bob, I suspect you give Bobby entirely too much credit for the complexity of his thought processes as they pertain to lineup decisions. You say, “There is nothing to suggest that Bobby’s decision matrix would have been the same in playoffs,” but I would argue the predictability of his decisions for the past 14 years strongly suggests that. I would guess that I knew he was going to bring in Remlinger the other night before Bobby knew it himself.
Of course this is purely speculation, but based on everything I’ve seen, Bobby’s thought process went something like this regarding who to bring out of the pen to replace Smoltz: “Who’s up for Florida? A lefty? Well, bring in the lefty reliever. I’ve got two lefty relievers now? Oh yeah, but McBride went 2 yesterday, so bring in the other one - Remlinger.” I’m afraid that’s where it ends. For example, it never seems to cross his mind that “Oh yeah, Remlinger can’t get lefties out, but I’ve got a righty (Ray) that is good against lefties, so maybe I should play it against the book one time?”
I would love to see some evidence that Bobby is looking at the numbers, trying to find the best matchup, even playing a hunch — you know, thinking. Unfortunately, I just don’t see that. Others do. Good. Makes for interesting debate.
For the record, I will state again my belief that Bobby Cox is a very good regular season manager who also happens to be below average when it comes to on-field strategy. I don’t think those two things are contradictory at all, because I think lineup decisions and game management are not prioritized until the playoffs. In my opinion, the importance of those things probably make up only about 5% of his job right now, so even if you fail at that 5%, you can still be pretty damn great.
There. Once and for all, that is my opinion. Feel free to misstate my words, misrepresent my ideas, insult my intelligence, and call me a heretic for daring to question any decisions of our lord, Bobby Cox. Or feel free to offer contrary opinions as so many here do so intelligently and articulately to my enjoyment.
Oh, and Bob, I will try my best to continue to posit, opine, and amaze.
By teoa
May 19, 2006 02:14 AM | Link to this
I apologize to everyone sick of the Bobby Cox platoon/bullpen strategy debate…rest assured I am as well. I think some interesting points were made by ncscoots, Voice of Reason, and others, but unfortunately several people seemed to just get angry and take offense. I have tried to clarify and defend my points, but I understand this topic is much too emotional for some.
Great series against Florida…hopefully the momentum will carry over against better teams. I definitely don’t think the Mets are going to run away…should be a race until the end. Frenchy getting in going in the middle of the order helps tremendously. His hot streaks are so hot that it justifies leaving him out there for the cold streaks. I would guess there is more of both to come, but I think Bobby’s patience serves him well when sticking it out with a player with that kind of talent. Go Braves!
By ncscoots
May 19, 2006 06:34 AM | Link to this
a final response to the Francoeur blog topic…Jeff is learning to make adjustments at the big league level (as a big leaguer should). At the beginning of the season, he was swinging at pitches out of the strike zone; he then was swinging at strikes, but wasn’t getting the bat square, because he was swinging at pitcher’s strikes; now he’s squaring up on the pitch, and being more selective in the strike zone. It’s a natural progression in the development of a still-inexperienced player. Is the kid gonna go bad one of these days? You bet, EVERY player does. But I think he has learned now that hitting at the major league level takes a lot of work, and constant attention to both mindset and mechanics. I’m much more pleased with the way he has progressed with his plate approach than with the current hot streak. It shows the kid can get better, and that truly should put fear into pitchers’ hearts. And in response to the did-you-want-send-Frenchy-down topic, I’m sure I mentioned all of the above in other blogs, but, frankly, who cares who said what a month ago?
By Bob, journalist jg
May 19, 2006 08:11 AM | Link to this
Teoa, so as not to subject everyone to more of the “debate”, I’m posting a responxe to your 01:57 post, for clarification purposes … at the end of the “Chipper Bound for a Breakout” Blog.
Your 1:57 post is really good stuff … and is the best example I know of how I think you should always write posts of that type; only request would be that when you’re responding to me; you might be a bit more gentle when extracting your pound of flesh … ironic perhaps … to point someone to their own work product for an example of the kind of work you think they should do.
By JOHN B.
May 19, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this
Penn,
First thing, I never jumped your case. I just disagree with your assessment of Remlinger. Numbers (Statistics) don’t lie. Remlinger sucks against left handers. He has his whole career. Second thing, I think Cox is a great manager. I don’t hate him at all. And I never said I could do a better job. However, he does make some real stupid decisions. And bringing Remlinger in to face a lefty with the bases loaded in a 2-1 game is stupid. No doubt about it. As soobn as I saw Remlinger come in, I started swearing. My wife thought I was crazy. Then she saw the outcome. And leaving Smoltz in after already throwing 110 + pitches is not the smartest move either. Smoltz has said he wants to back off a little in the beginning of the year so he is strong at the end of the year. And Cox still leaves him in there even though he had to pitch out of numerous jams all night. It was a dumb move.
However, I still would not trade Cox for any manager. I think Cox, LaRussa, Torre and Leyland are the best managers in the game today.
By Mark
May 19, 2006 08:46 AM | Link to this
you are absolutely right. Cox does make some questionable bullpen and pitching decisions, but he is in my mind the best manager today. Sosa having a good outing yesterday was critical due to the loss of Davies. If he couldn’t get it together, we would be in a world of hurt with only two good starting pitchers. i liked seeing horacio ramirez’s stats in the game he recently pitched. im not sure i remembered fully, but it said 5 scoreless innings with six K’s? he may be ready to join the rotation soon, and i am looking forward to that.
By Jimmy Stop
May 19, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this
Jimmy Smith,
I can’t take it any more. You obviuosly do not speak the way you write, and are not from Uganda. You are driving me crazy…please stop posting. You have got to be the biggest sociopath in the history of this blog. I mean you post more than anyone and you insist on this whole…”Where is DOB, Journalist miss DOB, why Braves play hard..Bobby Cox not know anything”…..PLEASE STOP!!!!!!!!!
By braves fan
May 19, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this
With all that’s happened with Atlanta’s rotation so far (Injuries to Ramirez and Davies, ineffectiveness of Sosa), how divine is it that John Thompson tweaked his elbow late in spring training, ending any trade talk? The guy is leading the league in ERA and looks like he’s pitching better than he ever has. I think Sosa, yesterday’s performance notwithstanding, is bound for the bullpen provided Chuck James can get his arm strength up enough to pitch 7 innings. Sosa’s problem is that he requires 100 pitches to get thru 6 innings, while guys like Smoltz or Hudson can get 7-8 innings on 100. So almost every day he pitches, even if he can hold the score down, will require 3-4 innings of relief. That’s just too taxing on the bullpen.
By Eric
May 19, 2006 10:29 AM | Link to this
Did anyone else see the article on FOXSPORTS.COM on D. Willis and potential teams wanting to trade for him? We where listed among 8 or 9 teams rumored to be interested.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/5612148
By Sam
May 19, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
Jimmy Stop - please stop. Jimmy Smith rules. He’s the most entertaining thing on the blog. If you don’t want to see his posts, just don’t read them.
By Joe journalist ba
May 19, 2006 10:47 AM | Link to this
Hell is everyone a journalist? I’m with “Jimmy Stop” enough is enough. If you miss DOB that much call him on his cell. Please get a life and stop!!!!!!!!!!
By Commentator
May 19, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this
Joe,
Yes, we are all Journalists. You didn’t get the memo? You must not work at the journalist factory. Tee-hee. Lighten up big Joe. It’s only a blog. Or is it? Spooky!
By MGL
May 19, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this
Jimmy Stop - Some of us enjoy the posts from the esteemed journalist jimmy smith. May I suggest that you just scroll past them if you don’t like to read them rather than trying to police the blog.
By Kentavo
May 19, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this
JT Snow wants out of Beantown. We have subpar, lazy, non-hustling, strike-out prone first baseman. Trade LaLoaf and Reeksma for Snow and Keith Foulke, who is being used in a set-up role.
Do it now!
By John Hoar
May 19, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this
Eric, I saw the post and have kept hoping something would happen. I couldn’t help but remember when Denny Nagle beat us one night and was a Brave the next day. So, I watched after the end of the series last night and today, and nothing. I guess nothing, or I am afraid, nothing is going on with the Braves in respect to Dontrelle. I posed the question to DOB on a previous blog and I am sure if there were any strong rumors he would have let us know.
By ssiscribe
May 19, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this
Now that the great homestand against the weak sisters of the NL East has finished, time to head west, and time for a new topic (something to bounce around until DOB files one from Zona sometime this afternoon):
The Braves are rolling right now, having won nine of their past 11 and pulling within 3 1/2 games of the Mets and 1 1/2 of the Phillies. Up next, three in Zona, three in Diego, three in Chi-town. The D’Backs and Padres are among the league leaders in the West, while the Cubs are drinking canal water since Derrick Lee went down with a wrist injury.
What realistically would constitute a successful road trip, folks? Certainly, everybody wants to see the Braves go 9-0, but what’s the minimum it’ll take for you to think the road swing was successful? 7-2? 6-3? 8-1?
Finally, three words you won’t hear Braves’ fans say very often will be uttered throughout Braves Nation this weekend: Let’s Go Yankees, as the limping Bronx Bombers take on the Mets.
Outta here.
By John Hoar
May 19, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this
Still thinking about Dontrell. I know that our main need is for a closer, but the addition of another pitcher like Willis that can go deep into a game, would completely change the dynamics of the bull-pen. Right now we need so many middle inning relief pitchers, multiple set up men, closers in early etc, that a bunch of pitchers are needed every night. Then if they haven’t recovered for the next game, we need a new complete shift of multiple pitchers. Seems like with that kind of an addition that we could focus on a closer and be a heck of alot better off than we are now.
By MGL
May 19, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this
ssiscribe - I’ll be very happy if it is 6-3.
By John Hoar
May 19, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this
ssiscribe- good question, I know that the competion gets a little tougher in the next nine games but not the top of the leagues. At first I thought that a 6-3 record would let us gain another game or two, but checked the Mets schedule and had to change my mind.
By Ahsan
May 19, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this
DOB,
If the Marlins were willing to trade Willis do you think the Braves would be interested? And what are the chances of Glavine returning as a Brave?
By Bob, journalist jg
May 19, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
John Hoar,
John, is your breaking up at the end of your last 2 posts intentional ar something else?
I had it happen to me yesterday … when 2 lines were not submitted … but were on the form.
By John Hoar
May 19, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this
Bob,I don’t know about the break-up. Not intentional. I was going to ask if anyone knew why it was happening, but figured I had done something dumb. I did scroll back up to check a previous blogger’s name. Would that do it?
By Bob, journalist jg
May 19, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
Jimmy Smith, Used Car salesman from Cordele … seems like there are some folks arround here that don’t like you looking for DOB … sure hope you find him soon so they can go back to sleep. My friends over at the Capitol emailed me that the TBI had been requested to find out if I was from East Africa … do you know what that’s about? I had to explain that the only reason I learned anything about kiswahili or was ever even near the Nile was so that I could scout over there for a good closer would sign for a Green Card rather than Cash. They seemed satisfied with that and said they heard Turborg and O’Brien were over there now on the same mission.
Years ago, before they “covered” the Atlanta Farmer’s Market … and before Cousin Bo’s involvement, we used to get “Cordele Mellons” at the market … 6 for a dollar, sometimes better than that later in the season and late in the day … they had good, oldfashioned, deeply grooved, giant muskmelons too … close kin to the cantaloupe muskmelons, but I liked them better.
Jimmy, the only Chipper Comments that I saw where in Guy’s piece … “It was a good time to finally break out … It’s nice to contribute, period. I’ve been struggling. I made a couple of adjustments and I finally hit one square.”
His timing was certainly good, I’ll give him that … seems like some folks know him fairly well.
Guy noted that he could have sacrificed the runners over, but that was never considered. “I can’t remember the last time I laid down a bunt”.
Neither can I, but if I were he; I don’t think I would admit it.
By Bob, journalist jg
May 19, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
John, I would think that it would have no effect but maybe it can affect the headers or corrupt the packets … I may have done the same thing … sometimes I get frustrated with the “speed” of the AJC updates … it’s especially upsetting when traffic appears low.