Braves

By ELH

May 19, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

Reitsma is not the answer as a closer. I like the idea of going after Willis.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

Welcome back … refreshing lead, to say the least! For the first time this season, it appears that the engine might have eight or more cylinders.

Hopefully, somebody can slip Jeff some kind of drug that will onvince him that he’s at Turner Field.

Too bad that the Braves can’t work som kind of multi-team trade where matt can move arround and always play against the Marlins … you can only dream about those numbers.

By TennesseePaul

May 19, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

Stoked to have you back DOB. I’m very excited about the Dontrelle Willis idea. I sure hope it works and is as painless as possible. I’d like to see that guy get his form back and be a Brave for more than a year (unless he never gets his form back of course). I’ll be at these games this weekend…

Pheonix and desert people are a strange breed… It’s 104. As soon as you step outside all the moisture from your body is instantly sucked out. And they look at you and say At least it’s a dry heat. You know, hell is a dry heat, I don’t see people lining up to move there.

By Geoff

May 19, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Pie in the Sky question… Being both a Braves fan and a Mariners fan (I live in Portland - and though a long shot, I do dream of the Marlins relocating hear) - but, back to the regular scheduled programming…

The Mariners have some very good young talent in the outfield with no place to play them in the near future… their only talent is in the outfield… with that in mind, and knowing that the Braves desperately need a lead off man… and, also knowing the Braves are stock full of talent in the minors - do you think there’s a prayer in the world a deal could be pulled off that would send Ichiro to Atlanta for several of the young studs in the minors… I mean, could you imagine an outfield defense of Ichiro in right, Andruw in Center and Frenchy in left?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, it looks like now that you’re back, everybody’s relaxed and gone back to work or to sleep … where I’m headed at the top of the hour.

As I may have said before … this pitching coach seems like one of the best things that’s happened to the Braves in a long time … and you keep pilling up the evidence.

There’ve been indications that the hitting coach is more proactive that one might have imagined too … is that a fair read or just an illusion?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

10 Paul, in the winter, it’s nice playing golf during the day … and like the Artic after the sun goes down … the oranges from off the trees are sour but the humidity ain’t bad.

By Chop Chop

May 19, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

DOB, it’s pretty obvious that Reitsma has a new gameplan out there now. I don’t know what that will mean for the rest of the year (or if he’s the closer in the postseason, God forbid), but he really had to stop throwing all of those changeups. He has a really good one, but if a guy throws the same pitch at the same speed to a batter three or four times in an at-bat, the odds are great that the batter will be able to time it and do some damage. McDowell finally “suggested” (I’m sure it was a stern suggestion) that he keep the ball down with sinkers, use his good fastball and break out the changeup to use as an out pitch.

Kenny Ray deserves a lot of credit. He also has great movement on his changeup, but the key thing is that he has enough giddyup on his fastball to make it that much more effective. I don’t expect an ERA below 3 from a journeyman type, but as long as he doesn’t get pasted for any considerable stretch of time (to me, that’s 5 appearances) this year, he was a great find.

One thing about Matt Diaz that I read before the season has been sticking in my head. I bought Baseball Prospectus 2006 this year, mainly so I could look up guys like Diaz and see what the BP writers thought about him. They liked him (kind of hard not to if the guy hit for a .348 average over his last three years in the high minors) and talked about how the Royals sent him to the instructional league to work on becoming a catcher…at age 27. Basically (as the BP writers make clear), the Royals’ misuse of Diaz is an indictment of that organization. The Braves’ pickup of Diaz for a middling minor leaguer (Rico Rodriguez) is a validation of why John Schuerholz and Bobby Cox have consistently put the Braves at the top of the NL.

Cox’s postseason managing aside (and yeah, I’ve hurled obscenities at my TV screen for many of his playoff moves), the guy knows how to build a team and lead it over 162 games. I’ve never doubted that. Honestly, I don’t see how a Braves fan could. The postseason is another story, of course.

I’d be all for Willis coming to the Braves, but I have no idea who the Braves would have to trade to make that happen. I know Saltalamacchia is struggling in the minors at the moment, but if he truly has a great bat, I’m not sure you’d want to be seeing that bat in the division 19 times a year. It would also depend on how desperate the Marlins really are to move him. It seems to me that they have a ton of prospects all over the diamond at the moment, but they would probably like a top prospect or two for the outfield. I don’t think the Braves have much (if any) top-level outfield talent in the minors, so that might be a sticking point.

By John Adcox

May 19, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

Anyone else as excited as I am about this series? Now that the Braves have feasted, as they should have, on sub-par teams and home cooking, they’re playing a play-off caliber opponent on the road. Here’s our chance to see what we’ve really got, as as much so as one series in May CAN.

Here’s another vote for Willis, if we can pull it off.

As for a closer, it’ll be interesting to see how things shake out with McBride there, and Cormier on the way back. I still believe McBride is the closer of the future, with all due respect to Devine and Boyer.

Any word on another bat? Thorman? Trade?

My Web site

By Joe Roman

May 19, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

“It’s hot, but it’s a dry heat.”. That’s probably what they say in hell. Go out and buy extra coffee folks. This should be a fun series.

By David O'Brien

May 19, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

Geoff, Ichiro seems too expensive for the new-era Braves. Way too expensive, given that Chipper, Andruw, Hudson and Hampton are all under contract beyond this season, and Braves are expected to pick up option on Smoltz in 2007.

Ichiro makes $12.5 million this year and again next year, including the prorated shares of the $6 million signing bonus he got when he signed his four-year contract (deal runs out after 2007 season).

He can also get bonus of $50,000 for 400 plate appearances, and $100,000 each for 500 and 600 plate appearances this season. And next season, he’d get $100,000 for 400 plate appearances and $200,000 for 500 and $200,000 for 600 plate appearances.

Oh, and his deal also calls has housing allowances of $30,000 in 2006 and $31,000 in 2007. (I’d like to interject: how does a club agree to such an allowance? I mean, what is the salary for?)

His deal also provided an interpreter, personal trainer, ground transportation in spring training and the regular season (again I ask, what the h is his salary for?), and four round-trip first-class plane tickets from Japan to Seattle twice every year (maybe Frenchy could get Delta to throw those in gratis, eh?)

So you see, unless the Mariners were to cover all that extra crap and a chunk of his salary, too, I can’t see Braves doing it.

By the way, when in Scottsdale, I’d highly recommend the huevos rancheros at The Breakfast Club restaurant. Quite tasty.

And it’s 101 degrees now, at 1 p.m. Yes!

By Dave Portman

May 19, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Sure would love to see Willis come up to Atlanta. Have to think the Marlins would like a few of Atlanta’s premium minor leaguers plus Betemit probably. What’s happening with Salty? Is he playing hurt? Seems to be hitting his weight, barely.

By CK

May 19, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

Let’s go ahead and make the trade now…Bring Willis on to GA

By Jim J

May 19, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Dave, a funny story about Phoenix. I was there on a trip in 1990 with my brother. We were driving through Fountain Hills when my brother exclaimed,”Man did you see that skinny dog? This must be a poor neighborhood.” It was a coyote. Kind of like Bobby Cox thinking Reitsma is a closer, huh?

By J-Baller

May 19, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

With the Braves rotation pitching well…and when everyone’s healthy, having 7 capable starters, why give up prospects (almost certainly to include Salty) to get Willis?

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

D-Train might be just the thing to help us D-Rail the Mets and Phillies … but, under Roger’s guidence and care, the current staff, including those in the wings, are actually showing signs of being capable of being rather special.

If we can get him signed “long-term”, he brings a lot more to the table than his arm … or even his bat

Apologies to the Arizona Fruit Growers Association … I’m reminded that those sour oranges came from from trees bordering the estate of President Reagan’s Mother and may have been spiked … we shouldn’t have been there pickin ‘em anyway!

By geauxbraves2000

May 19, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

I would love to see Willis in a Braves uniform. Could you imagine a starting 5 in 2007 of Hudson, Smoltz, Hampton, Willis & Thomson?

By CK

May 19, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

J-Baller, You get Willis to strengthen the Rotation for many years to come. Also you take away Willis from the fish who have won two World Series since we won in 95.

One more thing, Keeping Willis away from the Mets and Phils could make the difference in the division.

By Bob in SF

May 19, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

Willis would be a God in the ATL. He would instantly be the best/most recognizable African-American pro athlete besides #7 for Da Doity Boids. DW has a great attitude, work ethic and is already established. That being said, I can’t imagine the price for him wouldn’t be HEFTY! The Mets are salivating after him too and honestly have some better position prospects closer to being ready than the Braves. Lasting Milledge will be a stud and as much as the Mets say he is off-limits I can’t imagine them (or the NY media letting them)passing on a Cy Young caliber lefty for a kid in AAA who might be great but isn’t yet. The Marlins would want Salty and Davies and probably something on top of that to let Willis come north.

By geauxbraves2000

May 19, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Off the subject here, but has anyone seen the Braves schedule June 16 through the all star break? 3 with Boston, 3 with a better Toronto team, 3 with Tampa Bay, 3 with the Yankees at Yankee stadium, 3 with Baltimore, 3 with St Louis and then 4 with Cincinnati before the all star break. That is the stretch that I think will tell us all we need to know about this years team.

By Jman

May 19, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

With all that said about Willis is there any possibility such a deal could be pulled off? I know Salty would most certainly be invoved. Which I think the Braves may be willing to part with him because McCann’s stock is surging. The only thing that would make sense of keeping Salty is 1B and it doesnt look like that is even being considered.

Of the Braves 2005 Top 10 Prospects there are 2 Shortstops. Elvis Andrus, & Yunel Escobar, but with the Marlins acquiring Hanley Ramirez from the BoSox I dont think they’d need a young SS. But the Braves dont need both of them. Especially with Renteria in Atlanta until at least 2008. The others are Anthony Lerew, Joey Devine, Chuck James, Brandon Jones OF, Eric Campbell 3B. I think Davies stock has probably gone way down with this injury but I know teams were really high on him in the offseason. We all know that it would at least take Salty and two more. Question is who would the other two be? I think Chuck James, Salty, and one other could get Willis to Atlanta.

Then you have a solid rotation for years headed by Hudson and Dontrelle. Huddy is signed through 2010 I think, and we’d control Dontrelle for a while as well. Now if we could just get them to throw in Miguel Cabrera as well then we’d be awesome! Oh sorry, dozed off for a minute there. I must’ve been dreaming when I typed that.

By ncscoots

May 19, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

I don’t know enough about Marlins’ needs to dream up a trade for Willis…they’re basically playing prospects now, and even they don’t know which of those kids will make it in the future. So their view of what they need versus what JS thinks he should offer may be way different. Be assured they would want the earth, moon, stars, and a few cheerleaders’ phone numbers for the guy, though, even if his value is down right now. Mets don’t have enough in their system to make the deal, in my opinion, because they don’t dare trade Milledge after all the hype they’ve put on him, and Pelfrey doesn’t have enough value yet.

By John Hoar

May 19, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000- That is exactly what I was talking about in the last blog. If we don’t do better than 6-3 in the next nine games, or unless the Mets hopefully crash, it’s going to be really difficult to gain much in June.

By moonbeam

May 19, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this

Ya’ll don’t go off trading every 20 year old prospect we have. John will trade when it’s time. (As always)

By ncscoots

May 19, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves, you can kick that five-man out the door, though it would be nice. Hampton’s salary kicks back in next year, so we’ve got no chance of signing Thomson for 2007. We’re lucky to have him at his number THIS year, and if he keeps pitching like this the rest of the year, he’ll get a big number in 2007. Plus DW is also at around $4M this year, with a raise in sight for 2007. So assuming the trade did go thru, you’d have over $35M tied up in those four guys. No way Thomson gets signed after that.

By Dave Portman

May 19, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

I agree, Willis would be just what we need. Too much talent not to turn it around and his personal qualities are even better. We could afford him through his arbitration years and then Chipper will likely command much less and both Hampton and Smoltz (and their salaries) will be gone. I’d give up Salty and another guy or two in a minute. There’s a reason they call them prospects.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000, even when it helped us, I was always opposed to innerleague play … because of the seemingly unfair impact on the fianl standings … but looking at that stretch of games, I thought for a moment that we’d moved to the AL East. Did FOX set the sachedule for the first half of the season?

Jimmy Smith … I posted to you toward the end of the last Blog, but since then, I heard an interview with Chipper following the 11th inning HR … on yesterday’s pregame on WGST … he wasn’t upbeat … but both he and Bobby suggested that he’s been working hard to figure things out … studding old films and such … the impressive thing is that he did it without Daddy’s help!

By John Adcox

May 19, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

I may be wrong, but isn’t it so that a player can’t be traded while disabled? Unless, of course, he is a Player to be Named Later? That takes Davies off the table, right?

My Site

By Dr. Jay

May 19, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

I’ve been pretty hard on Reitsma every chance I get, but I must say he’s looked different the last two outings. I’m a bit purplexed that it would take suggestions from a coach to get him to throw something besides the change-up. That seems like Pitching 101, but whatever, he now has batters guessing again.

Now about Dontrelle. I’m not convinced he’s worth the packages fellow bloggers are suggesting, but it may be worth getting him for two reasons: 1) simply to prevent either NY team from landing him, and 2) shut up all the talk and shut down the chances of Glavine’s return. I don’t want that union-lackey-prima-donna back ever.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this

John Hoar,

I’m confused … how will what we do for the rest of May have to do with how difficult it will to gain ground in June?

No response required John … I’m always confused, but that question’s posed in jest!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

John Adcox, I don’t know about trading players on the DL … but I wonder if there’s anything prohibiting a separate agreement that the Player to be named later would be a “Named Player” on the DL, subject to agreed upon conditions?

By teoa

May 19, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

Bob, I responded to your post on the other blog…thanks.

By MBATL

May 19, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, great article.

I’d love to see Willis in a Braves uni… and I’m sure the Marlins would WANT the moon and the stars, but every GM in the game knows they’re not gonna pay him and have to take what they can get. So maybe, with a little horse-trading, we could pick him up without giving too much away. Would hurt to give up Salty, but I felt that way about Marte a year ago.

Big road trip for the Braves; we can’t expect to win 8 of 10 (or whatever the number is) on the road, in the West, and against better competition. An above-.500 trip will be just fine.

By MBATL

May 19, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

DOB (since it’s kinda quiet in here)… is there any type of report on Hampton’s recovery. Do we have any idea whether to expect him to be back to form, or a retread, next year? Maybe he’s just doing his own rehab and is off the screen for now.

He’s on the payroll, I guess; what a shot in the arm if he comes back strong; Smoltz, Hudson, Willis, Hampton, Thomson/Davies/Ramirez… wow, I’m ready for next year if the chips fall that way!

By DTrainFan

May 19, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

Forget MARTA…C’mon ATL, Bring in the D-TRAIN!!!

One of the best Braves games I ever witnessed at Turner Field was last year when he threw a shutout for the Marlins. I knew then he was working at minimum wage, & I hoped then the Braves would eventually pick him up. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. He is a great role model athlete, and he will fit in well in HotLanta. Too bad I had to move from the ATL-DANG IT!!!

By Sam Gillespie

May 19, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

I’m excited to see the Braves play in Chase Field. My hometown team, in my Hometown. I’ll be one of the few (given recent record low attendance at the ballpark) Braves fans in the stands this weekend.

Braves hat, tomahawk chop, and all.

By David O'Brien

May 19, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

Too early to report anything of substance on Hampton. I mean, he’s not supposed to be back until next spring anyway. So he’s taking it slow, etc. Should be fine, given the timeframe and the success rate on Tommy John surgery these days, even for an older guy.

By the way, looks like Braves will actually have to play decent to win Sunday, now that Juan Cruz is no longer listed as probable starter for Arizona. Looks like it’ll be Claudio Vargas vs. Huddy, a potentially solid pitching matchup.

OK, gotta get down to the clubhouse.

By MBATL

May 19, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this

DOB, know you’re on the run… I heard Diaz on the radio, after one of his monster games this week, crediting Chipper for all the time he spent in the batting cage with him - what a huge help it’s been. You have any knowledge or comment on that?

By Wendy

May 19, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

Shopping for Willis is great; how about we also look to pck up JT Snow for first base?

By John Hoar

May 19, 2006 07:32 PM | Link to this

Bob, I’m looking at it this way. We are playing better teams in the Padres,D’backs, but a pretty bad one in the Cubs. We haven’t been tested since we are playing better. If we split with the Padres and D’backs and sweep the Cubs that would put us at 6-3 for the trip. Sounds pretty good to me. BUT the Mets will play the Yankees three times, the Phillies three and the Marlins three. What if they split with the Yankees and Phillies and sweep the Marlins. That sounds fairly logical doesn’t it? BUT, that will give them a 6-3 record also, and result in no gain for the Braves. Then, in June we get into a much tougher schedule than we have faced with the Red Sox, Reds and I don’t remember who else right now but it was definately a very hard schedule, and one difficult to do much catching up with. Unless, we are playing much better than we have. Hence,my point was we had better play better than just very good in May, because it’s going to be very difficulty to make a big move in June.

Of course, this is all crystal-balling and wild guessing.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

John Hoar, No need for the explanation … you made your point very well the first time and I would think that most everyone would agree … I certainly do … was just having a little fun with the words you used to express it.

By David O'Brien

May 19, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this

Surgery for Davies went great, according to Bobby Cox, who talked to him a few hours after Davies had the surgery today in Philly. Bobby said they’re thinking 6-8 weeks, and if he gets back sooner that’d be great.

Still too early to tell, though. I’d guess we won’t see him back with Braves before August, but just a guess.

By the way, last update on Sunday _ it is Cruz, not Vargas. Again, Juan Cruz starting against Huddy on Sunday. Take the over.

By Paul Hamilton

May 19, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Well the Mets sure got a nice deal from the Marlins earlier in the year. I’m telling the Marlins they can pick up one of our top prospects and Thompson to fill the void from Willis til the end of the year. I’d play hardball with the Marlins, they are the ones wanting to get rid of their players not the other way around. The Braves have a lot of good looking prospects in the system, so let the Marlins kiss our a*. No way I give up Salty and two other top prospects for a floundering Willis. That is ridiculous! He has been horrible this year. I like the idea of adding Willis to the rotation, but I don’t see giving up three top prospects. I would be shopping around with other teams to see what those prospects might fetch. Shoot we got Hudson for less than that! JS needs to lay off the dope if he is considering giving that much up for Willis.

By MBATL

May 19, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this

Paul, I suspect JS is a lot of things, but “dope-smoker” is not one of them. Ha!

I doubt we’ll get taken in a deal for Willis, if we pursue him. Probably will have to give up something of value, but not everything. Agree with you entirely; we bargain from a strong position.

John Hoar, I’m not disagreeing - everything you say makes sense. But, that’s an awful lot of speculation. All the Braves need to worry about is winning series… 2 of 3, 3 of 4 (even 2 of 4 as 4-game series are tough to win). The rest will take care of itself. The Mets are NOT a great team, and 90+ wins will take this division, I think.

By Paul Hamilton

May 19, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

Yeah MBATL, classifying JS as a dope-smoker might have been a BIT extreme, but you get my point.

By brian

May 19, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

DOB-

What kind of prospects would the Braves have to deal for Willis and who specific do you think it would take?

Many of the Braves top prospects - Salty, Elvis, James, and Davies need to stay in Atlanta. Period

By MGL

May 19, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Most interesting day for news while waiting for Braves to play in 104’ AZ.

Esteemed journalist jimmy smith got lost on the way to game in AZ. Was last seen scaling Mount Rushmore to check out toes. Unfortunately, no toes were found and esteemed journalist is now missing.

I wish to send a warning to that lovely Carolina Lady that a Mr. Crow has applied for a permit to import a white bearded wilderbeest. A bull, the papers said. Sweet Carolina Lady needs to be careful as Wilderbeest marks territory with his droppings (better buy new shovel). Also, he is very protective of his turf. Mr Crow seems to have something in mind.

Meanwhile In Fla, Hartebeest met with several Key Deer. Little Key deer did not like Hertebeest, but were overwhelmed. Unfortunately, Hartebeest has developed a taste for our beloved Key Deer. Also, HB has developed a taste for fish. As of this afternoon, HB was headed North to find Dolfin Stadium, looking for fish, says he likes Marlin.

By Patrick S.

May 19, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this

Well i’m back for my semi annual instalment of my opinion :-P

Anyway just a few thoughts. To everyone that says, “it was just the marlins, it was just the Nats.” I have these thoughts in response. 1. no matter how “bad” a team is or their record is they can beat you and beat you handily.(how often in the last 14 years has there been a “bad” team that our team for the life of them just couldn’t beat?) 2. How is it that the mets play fla/was beat up on them and proclaimed by everyone (everyone that isn’t the braves or braves fans) including ESPN (puke), that they are the new division champs. But when we play them and beat those same teams down, “we were just playing the dregs of MLB?” It can not be both ways, either they(mets) are lousy for getting that vaunted record they have against the marlins/nat or they were doing what they were supposed to do just like us. Now i don’t personally take any games with any team for granted, the worst teams can jump up (and quite often do) and be the best, it happens all the time, soo this crap about “dregs of baseball, we proved nothing blah blah blah,” needs to just be put to bed.

Changing gears, D-Train would be great, and if anyone can get him without over spending (in terms of prospects) it’s JS, period. Yes willis has had a sub par year thus far, but tell me how many errors (and plays that weren’t scored errors) have been made behind him? Yes his ERA is high right now, but when was the last time you had a chance to get a guy with his talent lvl, that has performed before at the Major league level, that has the character and class that this guy has, that is LEFT HANDED no less?

Shifting into 3rd: The comeback wins like this consecutively, WOW, when is the last time we had a stretch like that? Even agains the worst in MLB when? Talk about excitement, with a different hero every night, that’s what will help us succeed later in the playoffs, and trust me this team will be in the playoffs, if you don’t think so, please order your crow now soo that it arrives in time because ESPN is going to own the market on crow in a little over 4 months so you won’t be able to buy any :-P Anyway geeze i can’t remember a series like this for a braves in a long long time, it was just thrilling. (yes i know this is a novel, sorry everyone)

Shifiting again: Francoeur, what can i say? All i heard weeks ago when he was in a slump (who doesn’t go thru them in a season?????) was “OFF WITH HIS HEAD” send him to AAA…. to which i have no actual words to say since it comes out as a PFFFFFFT. The guy is a natural, he will strugle from time to time, he will be on fire from time to time, but one thing that is more important than that is, he will learn the whole time and when he gets polished look out MLB, move over Pujols. The guy also has a knack to come thru in the most clutch situations, which everyone has screamed about for years with the braves that they don’t do, and the minute he slumps it’s ship him off to AAA. Geeze why don’t you make up your mind??????

Shifting again(yah i know a car doesn’t have this many gears): Sosa, well even in the games he has given up too many runs, he didn’t pitch bad, he got hit every time he made a mistake, and if every pitcher in the majors gave it up every time they made a mistake well there would be no pitcher with an ERA under 3. Now he has the stuff, he just needs some help getting himself strait, and the outting he had yesterday i think will go along way to get the mental aspect strait for him. We need him folks, people may not like him, but we do need him to perform well and i for one will root for him.

With that all (again sorry for the novel) being said, i’m going to end this post now, and post again later, can’t get you all too hooked in one post back, gotta save some of the goodness to go around, don’t want any adicts around here that get only one fix :P

Patrick

By Patrick S.

May 19, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

err Addicts, i can honestly say i don’t like this posting system, it’s hard to see my typing errors. Unfortunately i’m just not perfect :(

By MBATL

May 19, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

Paul, sure I do (get your point, that is). Just got a laugh from my mental image of JS loosening his tie, unbuttoning his collar, sitting down at the coffee table to roll up a fat one while Rainbow’s “Man on the Silver Mountain” blasts in the background. And then calling the Marlins to make a trade for Dontrelle!

Patrick, I really try to disagree with people here (it’s easier than coming up with unique thoughts). I think I’ve echoed all of your ‘gears’ in past blogs, but whatever. I agree on all points. Most importantly, yes, Sosa can get people out if he’d quit throwing the gopher ball. Supposably he’s working on keeping the ball down in the zone.

Typos? We don’t care ‘bout no blinkin’ typos.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 19, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

Sitting here waithing for the game and reflecting on Mother’s Day and some recent posts …

Mama was openly proud of all her kids! About the only way to make Mama mad was to say something bad about one of us … I know ‘casue sometimes when she was upset with my little sister, she’d share her feelings with me … and get very, very angry when I simply agreed with her! I finally learned my lesson when sis was approaching 60.

We could fuss and fight … and sometimes she’d even join in (fussin’, not fightin’) but name calling and personal attacks weren’t allowed … mama made sure that we show respect for each other even during our periods of “hate” … to Mama, name calling was cheating and cheating was never allowed.

Mama was as tough as they come and about the only times I ever saw her cry was when she thought she was responsible for hurting someone else’s feelings … It didn’t have to be a friend or relative and it didn’t happen very often!

Neither parent knew what it was to lie or cheat, regardless of the circumstances … and they tried their best to teach us that was the way to behave … triple punishment for either of those offenses … maybe they weren’t totally successful, but we’re mighty glad they tried!

I don’t mean to suggest that they were perfect. Sometimes I’d get punished for something I hadn’t done … but I never got credits for that … they figured there had to be something they’d missed … and were usually right.

So when you see my crazy posts and wonder why I say and act the way I do, just remember Mama … I do and miss her too!

By Carolina Lady

May 19, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

Hi, Patrick! Good post, but with one little correction: ESPN cannot own the market on crows! My freezerS (plural) are topped off with crows I’ve been eliminating from my property. Originally, so many said this was the year that the Braves failed; others said the reverse. It stood to reason that one side or the other was going to have to “eat crow” at the end of the season. Voila! Put the crows to good use and bake crow pies for the losing side! So all orders for crow will be run through southeastern North Carolina. Order early! (Will someone PLEASE contact LeTwan’s mama???) :-))

MGL - Sir, you are a true Southern Gentleman! I’ll copy/print these kind words and save them to enjoy again! Thank you for the warning re: Mr. Crow’s nefarious plans! I’m on it!! But we must organize a search/rescue for Jimmy Smith! Even DOB’s most delightful style of writing and most appreciated personal touch can’t overcome the loss of such an important contributor as our Jimmy! The blog would go blah. Who is taking care of Baby Seal??? (Are we sure that Jimmy isn’t participating in the ceremonies in Cordele?)

Aha! Game time!!!

By Carolina Lady

May 19, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

JS would get his stuff from the same guy that Andruw and Maddux get theirs from.

By Patrick S.

May 19, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

No worries on the crow carolina lady, i’ve eaten my share, and will again of that i’m certain :)

By MBATL

May 19, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

Well said, Carolina Lady. Couldn’t have picked two better marks to complete the fantasy.

By eric the elder

May 19, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

I could really use some help. Are any of you folks Adelphia customers? If so, have any of you had the problems I’ve had getting the Braves games on FSN?

A week ago Wednesday, and then again a week ago tonight, the video and audio were a mess, and eventually the screen just went blank. All other channels fine.

Then last Wednesday, the channel was working, but the program was poker! I would be grateful to hear from Atlanta Adelphia customers to hear about your experiences. Many thanks.

By lefty

May 19, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

LaRock represents. Is he forgiven?

By lefty

May 19, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

I’m not complaining, but can somebody feed C. Carey an adjective / gerund besides “sizzling”?

By butch

May 19, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

ken ray….has been awesome this year he should get alot of credit…

By lefty

May 19, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

I love “Apache” by the Sugar Hill Gang. What a silly song.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 19, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

did you see jimmy smith in the pool? Adam laroche almost hit journalist with that baseball! baby seal needed a soak and jimmy smith decided to jump in - many babes around the pool earlier tonight. now, jimmy smith’s absence … this journalist has made a fellow blogger sick. jimmy smith has been called a name. the defaming blogger did not identify himself but poor structure is a dead giveaway. jimmy smith says we should all get along on this blog. even penn is mellowing some and has become most personable when not called names. journalist hopes critical blogger can accept jimmy smith for what jimmy smith is - journalist from cordele. if not, hartebeest will eat bloggers’ heart and spit out seeds. thankyouverymuch. now, toes … no significant toe issues on this team unless you consider player with total of four toes a problem (rumor - only a rumor).

By David

May 19, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this

Dave,

I heard that Betemit and Diaz are taking ground balls at first? Is this true? Thanks.

By hk

May 19, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

…. as of the moment, the Braves are leading the league in batting average !!!

Braves .2748 (end 3rd)

Arizona .2725 (end (3rd)

Milwaukee .2720 (end 8th)

By lefty

May 19, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, care to comment on the bang-bang toe play at first between Chipper & the pitcher?

By hk

May 19, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

… well, it was nice while it lasted …

Arizona .2738 (end (5th)

Braves .2736 (end 5th)

Milwaukee .2718 (final)

By ssiscribe

May 19, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

Sigh … a long night is getting even longer.

What didn’t last long was that 5-0 lead.

Sigh …

By ssiscribe

May 19, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

For absolutely nobody in particular, I just need to get this off my chest:

I HATE WEST COAST BASEBALL GAMES !!!!!

OK, sorry about that. I’m better now.

Hurry up and win, Braves. Hurry up and go oh-for, Barroid.

By nathan

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

Anybody out there, who was rippin me for ripping Bobby Cox about leaving pitchers in one inning too long!?

Don’t ever question my observations! LOL

I just think it’s “funny” the night after I was bi*ing about it…..he does it. Almost on cue!

McBride has run into some bad luck this inning! Bad play (renteria/laroche) and about once a year andruw misjudges a ball.

Keep your head up kid

Awesome throw by Langerhans!….Of course it was Estrada running! LOL

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 12:25 AM | Link to this

Man, what an at-bat by Renteria. That guy is a pro, plain and simple. And now, that at-bat allows Chipper to tie the game.

Super player, that Edgar fella.

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this

Guess it’s LaRoche’s turn to play hero tonight. Five-RBI night and a clutch, clutch hit in the ninth to give the ballclub the lead.

Nights like this make the memory of that lazy stroll to the bag Sunday fade just a touch easier.

Now, gotta hold it.

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 12:58 AM | Link to this

Stop me if you’ve heard this before …

The Braves need a closer.

And I need a drink.

By uga4ever

May 20, 2006 12:59 AM | Link to this

11 BLOWN SAVES for the Braves. Imagine if we would have converted half of those. We would be in first or 1 game out. Reitsma just can’t handle it MENTALLY. He is a good set up man… and that is about it.

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 01:04 AM | Link to this

Eh, fellas, not exactly the way to start the roadie.

Nothing deflates a team like coughing up a lead, then rallying, only to see the close come in and get hit like he stole something.

Damn, this one stings.

By jon

May 20, 2006 01:06 AM | Link to this

I’M SO SICK OF THIS CRAP! THIS HAS TO BE IT! I CAN’T IMAGINE BOBBY LETTING THIS GUY CLOSE ANOTHER GAME….KEN RAY WILL BE THE NEW CLOSER STARTING TOMM NIGHT

By excelsior

May 20, 2006 01:06 AM | Link to this

Thanks, DOB, for mentioning Francoeur. I blame you for his 0-5 night. And don’t tell me he made some productive outs b/c her certainly didn’t mean to. He just hacks.

Reitsma stinks.

By Shawn B

May 20, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this

Well that certainly is rare, Reitsma blows a save. NEVER SAW THAT COMING. How many chokes does it take before Bobby realizes this guy can’t close out games!!!!!!!

By God

May 20, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this

I’ve been trying to tell Bobby & Co to trade Reitsma for a bag of sunflower seeds, but he still won’t go for it.

By Eric M. Webb

May 20, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this

What’s it going to take to convince J.S. and Cox that Reistma is just not the answer? I mean, this is getting real old.

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this

REITSMA IS HORRIBLE I OFFICIALLY HATE HIM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I WAS POSITIVE THEY WERE GOING TO LOSE WHEN I SAW HIM COME IN THE GAME!!!!!!I HATEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE HIM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Johnny5

May 20, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this

I understand that Bobby wants to show confidence in HIS closer, but when Reitsma gives up the lead and loads the bases any other manager would pull him. Killer Ray was even up in the pen! I say try what has been so successful in Boston, pull the closer and make him situational setup and try everyone who’s pitching well until you find a good fit. If I see Reitsma in another save situation not of his making I think I’m going to be sick.

By Chris

May 20, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this

I have seen some bad Braves bullpens over the years, but this is beyond endurance. 11 of 19 saves blown! There have been a couple of converted saves that were 3 run leads in which a run or two was given up. Now 6-12 in one run games, TBS just said we led in 9 of those 12 losses. Basically we can count on blowing most of our 1 run leads in the 9th. Something has to be done about the bullpen and specifically the closer…now. Otherwise look for a 3-6 roadtrip.

By Gregg

May 20, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this

That’s what we get for sticking with a Canadian.

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this

What do you guys wanna call him….Chris Kolb or Danny Reitsma???

By Exce;sior

May 20, 2006 01:10 AM | Link to this

Reitsma stinks. He stinks. Plain and simple. He stinks.

By Fredo

May 20, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this

REITSMA IS A GIANT STEAMING TURD!!! How can John S. just sit by with these scrubs we have in the bullpen and not make some moves? Even if we eak out the division this year, you expect us to go anywhere with these chokers and retreads??? No f-ing way!!!

By hk

May 20, 2006 01:12 AM | Link to this

… Arizona won the batting avg race as well tonight … league leaders:

1st - Arizona .2769 (final)

2nd - Braves .2762 (final)

3rd - Milwaukee .2718 (final)

By ELH

May 20, 2006 01:12 AM | Link to this

It is time to release Reitsma. He must be the worst pitcher on the staff. He does not have the talent, heartor guts to be a closer. Trade him or release him.

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:12 AM | Link to this

Cant wait to here his classic quote in the papers tommorow, “I just sucked! Plain and simple, I sucked.” Whats this gonna be the 5th time in the last month we get to read that quote?

By Davey

May 20, 2006 01:12 AM | Link to this

David O’Brien - why don’t you just shut your pie-hole about “Reitsma’s Quiet Resurgence” and start realizing what everyone but Braves’ management does - he sucks, and should never be trusted with a lead (unless you already have 2 outs, and are facing the Devil Rays with a 4 run lead).

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:14 AM | Link to this

Right on Davey, right on!

By Michael

May 20, 2006 01:15 AM | Link to this

What I don’t understand is, Reitsma sucked last year in the closer role except for 1 month…why the heck was he brought back at all, much less as the closer?????????????

Nice move John S.

We need another starter, a new closer and about 4 new arms in the bullpen.

By CDawg42

May 20, 2006 01:16 AM | Link to this

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHY THE BRAVES WONT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS THIS YEAR, YOU JUST SAW IT!!!!!UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:16 AM | Link to this

This sucks cuz now I am p** and I am going to lose sleep over this BS. Cant wait for the Webb vs. Travis Smith matchup tommorow. Tonights game was so vital and SkeetSkeetSkeetsma blew another load again!!!

By WhippingPost

May 20, 2006 01:17 AM | Link to this

Guys, Reitsma has great stuff. Just had a bad night. A little patience, please… it’s a long season!

By Carroll

May 20, 2006 01:17 AM | Link to this

Where are all the people (ie: MBATL) who gave me hell for telling it like it really is regarding Reeksma this offseason. Everyone just wanted to close their eyes and pretend that this turd who led the league in blown saves last year would somehow magically start doing well….all because Bobby believed he would. These people would believe in unicorns if Bobby told ‘em to. Well I’ve got news for ya:

Freudian definition of insanity: continuing to do the same thing and expecting different results. Ergo, Bobby Cox=insane.

By Davey

May 20, 2006 01:17 AM | Link to this

Too bad it’s just horse racing where you can shot an ineffective animal.

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:19 AM | Link to this

If you didnt notice Bobby looked EXTRA ifuriated tonite while he watched Reitsma blow it. I think its over for him, I truly hate him as much a Dan Kolb, if anyone agrees say……. “I”

By Sonny

May 20, 2006 01:20 AM | Link to this

Anyone else see that “deer in headlights” look on Reitsma’s face in the 8th when he was done warming up? You can just tell by the look on the guys face he doesn’t have the marbles to get the job done. The guy chokes about 70% of the time and yet he’s still employed in the major leagues???

By Davey

May 20, 2006 01:21 AM | Link to this

A little patience? How about the effect it has on the rest of the clubhouse seeing his sorry tail trot back to the dugout after giving away another win. Patience and professional sports do not go hand-in-hand, especially when this has been an on-going problem. By the way, great stuff, and a shaky mental make-up equal a bad situation. - time and time again…

TRADE HIM NOW!

By Chris

May 20, 2006 01:22 AM | Link to this

We have some guys that can get people out most of the time in the bullpen, but when you have no closer the rest of the pen is always an unsettled mess. Take the same other relievers (minus Reitsma) with Smoltz, or even just a half-decent guy who would save about 70% of his chances, as the closer and our pen would be fine.

This team has a very good offense (leading the NL in runs scored), enough starting pitching to win, and plays generally good defense. There have been Braves teams like this in the past that have won with mediocre bullpens. We can’t win with this mess though. You gotta at least be able to save more than half of your chances. If we save even 11 of the 19 (instead of 8 of 19), we are 24-18, sitting 1 1/2 out of first right now, and in great shape considering all the road games we have played.

With a quarter of the season done, we are on pace for 40+ blown saves!

By ELH

May 20, 2006 01:22 AM | Link to this

You can count on the game being lost when you see Reitsma wariming up. Why can’t JS and Cox see this guy is awful. He dosen’t deserve to be sent to Richmond

By Steve

May 20, 2006 01:23 AM | Link to this

I am so infuriated I cant go to sleep. Its ridiculous but I am so violently angry. I wish Reitsma breaks his arm and has to retire, honestly. I’d rather see Pete Orr as the closer.

By tyyosh

May 20, 2006 01:24 AM | Link to this

Sometimes you can sense a turning point. I think last Sunday was LaRoche’s. Tonight was the closer position’s. There will be another closer tried the next time on this trip.

By D

May 20, 2006 01:26 AM | Link to this

I wish someone would inject him with steroids in his sleep, so his a** can be suspended for 50 games. I think that’s the only way we’re going to see a change given Bobby’s senility towards keeping Reitsma in the closer role.

By Ron Roberts

May 20, 2006 01:28 AM | Link to this

Our pitching coach is a supposed bullpen master… and yet the consummate bullpen fixer-upper, Chris Reitsma, has yet to improve - with all the quality pitches in his repetoire.

TRADE HIM?

Who in their right mind would take him?

It’s time to move on. Four less blown saves and they’re talking about us atop the division, folks.

By MBATL

May 20, 2006 01:30 AM | Link to this

Carroll, thanks for the call-out. I think I spent the entire post-season last year advocating Ryan or Baez, and even Hoffman when that rumor was running. Since no deal was done, I’ve been supportive of Reitsma, just like I was of Frenchy, CJ, and still am of Giles and LaRoche. Agreed, the experiment is not working.

I did get tired of you constantly referring to BC’s use of Charlie Liebrandt in the WS a decade-and-a-half ago, and of the fantasy league trade proposals when we’ve got a core of affordable, home-grown talent. Anyway, you’ll stick to your guns, I know. But Reistsma blows a save and you feel the need to jump me because it proves you right about everything? Okay. Good to know you hold a grudge well.

By davey

May 20, 2006 01:32 AM | Link to this

Reitsma’s postgame comments - “I think I just need a little more time”

Where’s John Rocker? I wish we could sign him just to come in the clubhouse and whip his tail just because he’s Canadian.

By Gregg

May 20, 2006 01:34 AM | Link to this

Anybody pitching well in the Mexican Leagues that we can sign?

By Tony

May 20, 2006 01:34 AM | Link to this

HOW BAD DO WE MISS FARNSWORTH NOW???????????????

I STILL CAN’T GET USE TO THESE PENNY-PINCHING BRAVES WE’RE STUCK WITH NOW!

By Chris

May 20, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

MORE TIME?????? He’s been on the staff for 3 years??????????????????????????????????????????

By Bob in Sf

May 20, 2006 01:37 AM | Link to this

I think everyone is being too hard on Reitsma. Seriously, imagine how hard it must be for him to pitch with both of his hands wrapped around his own neck.

By MrC

May 20, 2006 01:39 AM | Link to this

Time for the Death RAY……or ABC (anybody but Chris)

By davey

May 20, 2006 01:40 AM | Link to this

I think Reitsma has had his mind on too many things the last year or so since Canada has legalized gay marriage. Love does have a way of affecting concentration on the field.

By Miles

May 20, 2006 01:41 AM | Link to this

words cannot describe how angry I am right now at REEKSMA.

By Matt

May 20, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

The Braves should start a program that is advertised on TBS that allows season-ticket holders to get their money back after a game in which Reitsma blows a save. Not only will it increase attendance, but he might get a few more cheers when he comes into the game.

By TennesseePaul

May 20, 2006 01:59 AM | Link to this

Fransworthless couldn’t hold a 5 run lead.

Reitsma? Who? I saw nothing but a lifeless corpse. He is dead to me.

By Chuck E.

May 20, 2006 02:04 AM | Link to this

davey, you seem awfully pre-occupied with gay marriage.

By brian

May 20, 2006 02:05 AM | Link to this

This game wasnt Reitsma’s fault it’s Bobby’s fault. You fool me once shame on you, you fool me twice shame on me. Bobby has been right by staying with Johnson last year and Francoeur this year but Reitsma is not the answer. He even had Ray ready in the pen. And we get Webb on Saturday? We’ll be lucky not to avoid the sweep.

By Jim From TENN

May 20, 2006 02:17 AM | Link to this

I mean i hate to wish harm on anyone but it looks alot like (god forbid) a major injury is the only hope braves fans have of seeing someone in the closer role that doesn’t blow and i don’t mean saves!

By gotigers72

May 20, 2006 02:17 AM | Link to this

How much longer before they do something about a closer? You know it’s demoralizing to a team to work their butts off to come back the way the Braves did tonight just to have it blown by an inept closer. If it was the first time it had happened, it would be different.

Trade for somebody, put somebody already on the staff there, go to the minors and bring somebody up, but for God’s sake do something! If they go to the minors, I have two words; Phil Stockman. Go to minorleaguebaseball.com and check out this guy’s stats between Richmond and Mississippi this year. Dominating. Overpowering. He pitched 1 2/3 innings tonight and struck out 5. Please Mr. Schuerholz, do something. Don’t leave Bobby with one hand tied behind his back in the late innings.

By Chris

May 20, 2006 02:35 AM | Link to this

Try Ray, bring up a minor league player, trade, get another player from Greg Olsen for a dozen bats and 5 dozen baseballs, but do SOMETHING! Those recent games in which Reitsma pitched better were mostly (if not all) lower pressure situations, either non-save, or maybe the easier 3 run lead save. With a one run lead in the 9th, the guy is frozen in the headlights every time.

If we are going to blow games in the 9th, lets at least do it while trying to find a new closer, instead of watching “Groundhog Day” where Reitsma does the exact same thing over and over (1 run lead, blow save, throw glove in dugout, say “I stunk” after the game, repeat two days later).

By Del

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

There was plenty of blame to spread around for tonights giveaway loss.

Couple of missed scoops of low throws at first led to a couple unearned runs.

How many people did Giles leave on base tonight with his never-changing uppercut swing for the fences. Something is going on with Giles this year (outside distractions) that has him so in-consistent.

Bobby for leaving CR in, when it was obvious from the 1st batter he faced that he didn’t have command of his pitches and he was leaving everything up in the strike zone. Either Bobby had some money down on the Dbacks, or he was giving CR enough rope to hang himself. Let’s pray it was the latter b/c enough is finally and forever enough!!!

And lastly Mr CR himself. I cann’t add anything more to say about him than has already been said over the past 12 months or so. I would hope he has finally hung himself as our closer.

If tomorrow dawns and Bobby has finally come to the conclusion that he has to change closers, then tonights nightmare loss will be worth the agony. I also hope he takes the same stance with our wildly erratic “leadoff hitter”.

PS: I wonder if Matt Diaz has ever played any secong base? We got to get his bat in the lineup more frequently, along with WB.

By teoa

May 20, 2006 04:12 AM | Link to this

I love how all it takes is a stupid press release about how the pitching coach is making changes with Reitsma that is suddenly going to turn him into a closer to impress a lot of you. I know there are a lot of loyal Cox worshipers but this is getting ridiculous. Please don’t write any more stories about how Reitsma has suddenly ended 5 years of sucking unless there is a brilliant discovery in medical technology that makes a brain transplant possible. Unless that happens, I would guess that everyone posting here (yes, even Penn and Joe Roman) is smart enough to know this is transparent propaganda designed to get your money. As long as Reitsma is the closer, Braves management does not care about winning and I would encourage everyone to avoid contributing to making the Liberty stocks more valuable. Almost everyone has known that Reitsma is not an acceptable major league closer — from fans to beat writers to Hall of Fame reporters — but unfortunately a lot of Braves fans are naive enough to believe that whatever moves Bobby Cox’s team makes are in the interest of winning. Don’t fool yourself. This team doesn’t stand a chance with Reitsma as closer and I would encourage everyone to not waste your money until this team has a chance. If the Braves are willing to make a trade and try to win, I hope you all will contribute to setting attendence records. Otherwise, you are playing right into the hands of corporate greed.

By teoa

May 20, 2006 04:25 AM | Link to this

Carroll, you are absolutely right, and every knowledgeable baseball fan has known it since the offseason. Unfortunately, winning is no longer a priority for the Braves. Winning cheap is the ideal, but losing cheap is clearly preferable to winning with the added expense of a decent major league closer.

By Chris

May 20, 2006 04:55 AM | Link to this

They should give me a job. I’ll give up 2 runs in the 9th for a lot less money than Reitsma.

By Caelus

May 20, 2006 05:36 AM | Link to this

This is for Goeff and his comments about the Braves possibly getting Ichiro from the Mariners. I lived in Seattle for 25 years before moving to Georgia 2 1/2 years ago and, like Geoff, am both a Braves and Mariner fan.

Lemme guarantee you that there is no way in Hades that Ichiro will be leaving Seattle for any other destination. Unfortunately, there isn’t much left in town for the very loyal Mariner fans and their ownership is not stupid enough to let their one star get away.

But again, I will wet my pants to see what I consider the best all around player in the game wearing a Braves uniform.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 20, 2006 05:59 AM | Link to this

Hartebeest, Leopords and Spots

By Kevin

May 20, 2006 05:59 AM | Link to this

Well i see retisma choke n loss Now cox is about to shoot him.We need get a closer are like last year when Retisma enters its oops gee we lost 10-9.Good idea cox leave u great closer who let houston tie playoff Game choke it away.Now This stuff if u want to catch Mets are phillies u need a closer who we traded away…

By tbo

May 20, 2006 06:07 AM | Link to this

I’m done. Stick a fork in me. Until JS or BC get rid of Reeksma I’m done.

By Freedawg

May 20, 2006 08:02 AM | Link to this

Reitsma sucks. I swear everytime he gets in I turn the channel because if the Braves win its good but I can’t stand to see him get in there and blow another game. Does Cox owe him money or something? I can’t understand why he continues to get the nod!

By HEAD COACH

May 20, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this

What can the old Coach say about Reitsma that hasnt already been said in this blog ? Well……. for starters , Ive been saying it since spring training. Reitsma is a middle relief guy , nothing more , not a closer. The Reds knew it when they traded him and from the look on Cox’s face in the dugout last night I think the other shoe has dropped. Reitsma has lost the closer job or Cox has lost his mind , maybe both. Holy mother of God , if Brian McCann isnt the best catcher in the N.L. I dont know who is. LaRoche’s grand salami was pretty , his two bad picks at 1b contributed to the Diamondbacks win. Honest opinion from the rest of the bloggers , LaRoche or Betemit at first ? I say Betemit.

By MB Steeve

May 20, 2006 08:05 AM | Link to this

John Thomson should not have let the Diamondbacks back into the game. 5-0 before he even threw a pitch. His control was terrible last night. As for Reitsma, i think relievers will be on standby whenever Chris is on the mound. If he falters, he’ll get the hook. We just don’t have anyone else to fill the role. Welcome to the closer by committee.

By Ken

May 20, 2006 08:15 AM | Link to this

Why the __ can’t Cox try somebody else in the ninth inning? What about Villareal? He could not possibly be any worse than Reeksma. As far as that, my grandmother could not do any worse. And she would play a lot cheaper.

By hithere

May 20, 2006 09:10 AM | Link to this

Mets are still in first place and climbing! he he he!

By hithere

May 20, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

Mets are still in first place and climbing! he he he!

By Paul Hamilton

May 20, 2006 09:22 AM | Link to this

I’m so sick of Reitsma, there are no more excuses. Keep throwing new bodies out there until we find someone that can do it or just keep the closer by comm. Reitsma just doesn’t have the stuff or the makeup to be a closer. I’m ready to see someone else fail for a change, at least then I know they are trying to fix the problem. I think we are back to the braves at the beginning of the season, high octane offense, questionable defense, and no pitching whatsoever. We could have slipped into second place with the win. I’m so thankful our schedule is backloaded with home games because that seems to be the only place we are successful.

By Rod

May 20, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

When will Cox and Scheurholz decide to finally trade for a closer?!?! July 31 may be to late!

They must make a move now.

By Steve

May 20, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this

The Braves are great all around this year, just NO GOD *&^% CLOSER!!! Reitsma is pathetic!!! If the Braves get Willis, they can put Hudson and Willis at the top of the rotation and stick Smoltz back in the closer role and probably get another extra season or two out of him back in the pen too!! Also Remlinger is not the answer fort he 8th inning either. GOD I HATE THIS!!! EVERYTHING IS SO PERFECT AND ONE CANADIAN FOOL HAS TO RUIN IT!!!!!!!!!

By Carroll

May 20, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this

MBATL: No I didn’t get on your case after Reeksma blew “one save”. He has blown plenty so far in just the first six weeks of the year. Just like he led the league in blown saves last year in just about 6 weeks on the job. If anybody else at any other job on the face of the earth failed so often and with such predictable regularity, they would be fired, period. And frankly, if the employer didn’t fire them, it would be damn-near criminal negligence! But with Reeksma, not only does he not get fired, he got a promotion and a raise!!! People, we should be marching on Hank Aaron street!!!!

And, MBATL, this happens to be the first time I said anything to you about Reeksma this year, so I was patient and gave him plenty of time. As far as the Liebrandt reference, that is just one of many Bobby blunders with the bullpen over the years. I never brought up that one by itself. If that was the only instance, then I would say Bobby has done tremendous with the pen. Unfortunately, that is clearly not the case.

By art

May 20, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

Steve, I think I’ll take Smoltz as a starter no matter what. Let’s not forget Willis hasn’t exactly been lights out this year. I think Reitsma needs to be back to a set-up guy myself, but Smoltz really the only guy we can count on to pitch his guts out every time- and keep us in the game. Occasionally he stays in too long but I’d rather have that than someone who doesn’t want the ball. I really think Sosa could be a good closer. The first couple of innings his stuff has some great movement-as the game wears on his stuff wears down. Yeah, he’d blow the occasional save but we already have someone doing that and more don’t we? Reitsma, you’re a heck of a guy and great set-up man, let’s put you back in that role.

By Stuck in Kentucky

May 20, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

I wonder if a change of scenery would do Brad Lidge anygood. It could not be worse than Chris Kolb plus he can throw harder than 91 mph.

By Adam

May 20, 2006 12:18 PM | Link to this

And about Dontrelle Willis, the Braves would have to give up way too much in terms of prospects to get him. The Marlins don’t just “give away” their players. They always get the best prospects and develop them - that’s why they’ve been able to build two completely different World Series teams from scratch. I don’t see stingy Scheurholtz trading with the Fish.

Reitsma is not the answer and Smoltz is not an option - plain and simple. I think the Braves are going to try every option within their system before they make a trade, that’s just how Scheurholtz is. Personally, I think Peranto is worth giving a shot. Maybe Scheurholtz will do something at the deadline, but it most likely won’t be enough to make us a legitimate PLAYOFF threat.

Despite last night, I’m pretty sure will still have what it takes to win the East, but that’s not saying much. Without a closer, it’s going to be just like last year and the year before and the year before and the year before - first round and out.

By David

May 20, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

I hate you Reitsma. I wish bobby would put anyone but you in to close a game.

By Jman

May 20, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

How much longer will Bobby put up with Reits?

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

Chris in Kentucky, let me get this straight: You want to dump Reitsma and replace him with a guy who’s done the exact same thing for Houston ever since Pujols humiliated him in October? OK, sure, makes sense to me.

I totally agree that Reitsma should be replaced, have said it since my blog on the subject two weeks ago, I think it was. And I suggested last night to a colleague that Death Ray should get a crack at the job when the other guy said Sosa. To me, Sosa makes no sense as closer because he puts one or two runners on every inning. Death Ray for closer. Think of the entry music/video they could come up with….

By the way, I put last night’s loss on Thomson even more that Reitsma. You just don’t blow a 5-0 first-inning lead. And walking some no-name pinch-hitter (Adam Green) with two out, before the three-run homer … bad, bad, bad.

Funny, I don’t see too many LaRoche posts tonight. I think with one swing he got more RBIs than J.T. Snow has all season, thought I could be mistake.

To the guy obsessed with J.T. Freakin’ Snow? What is this, 1999?…

After a long night of desert ball and another loss, a man should listen to appropriate music. My selection as I start this morning (it’s only 10 a.m. out here, remember) is the outstanding new CD by gloriously weathered ol’ deep-voiced Tom Russell, “Love and Fear.”

Lyrics from the song, “The Pugilist at 59,” which is filled with the details of a lonely man’s life, comparing that of an old boxer to that of a love-scarred man:

“Roll out of bed, threw some water on my face/ 25 situps and I run in place/ I put the coffee on, but the pot ain’t clean/ Yeah, all you little devils of alcohol and caffeine

“A handful of vitamins, dropped ‘em o the floor/ my ex girlfirends are laughing from the icebox door/ I put their photos up there, yeah we talk all the time/but they ain’t talking back now, yeah the puguilist is 59

“Cold chicken salad, a glass of ice tea/phone bills, gas bill, electricity/and the mortgage and the junk mail/no father’s day card…”

But in the end, “You put on the gloves, you’re always ready for love.”

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this

Make that Andy Green, not Adam Green. Told you he was a no-name.

By eric the elder

May 20, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Let’s review. Mets/Yankees tied in the top of the 9th and Billy Wagner comes in. He strikes out Giambi, A-Rod, and Stinett. Mets go on to win in the bottom of the 9th.

Now Braves/DBacks. Braves take a 1-run lead into the bottom of the 9th and Reitsma comes in. Our “closer” gives up two doubles, an intentional walk, a hit batsman (on an 0-2 count), and a base hit to lose the game.

Anyone want to compare Wagner as a closer to Reitsma?

Meanwhile, Kenny Ray is warmed up and ready throughout the inning. Moreover, we burned McBride earlier when we didn’t have to, so there were no lefties to face Gonzo and Greene in the 9th. I’m not a Bobby basher, but I think we got outflanked on this one.

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

By the way, Kyle Davies will be out at LEAST two months, not six to eight weeks as Bobby said he hoped to have him back.

This we know because Davies was transferred to the 60-day DL last night, meaning no way he comes back until, of course, 60 days from now.

By Jim

May 20, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this

With Ramirez, Cormier, and James about ready to come off the DL (and Davies on it for the next 2 months), Which 12 of these pitchers should we keep on the active roster?

Smoltz, Hudson, Thompson, Sosa, Ramirez, James, Reitsma, Ray, Remlinger, McBride, Cormier, Villareal, Paronto, Moylan. (Remove 2)

By Carolina Lady

May 20, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

DOB, love your posts, as usual, but…. how long have you been in the sun today??

By the way, Kyle Davies will be out at LEAST two months, not six to eight weeks as Bobby said he hoped to have him back.

This we know because Davies was transferred to the 60-day DL last night, meaning no way he comes back until, of course, 60 days from now.

Question: how many weeks in a month? Question: how many days in a month?

Just pickin’ atcha, DOB! Are you and Yogi, one of my all-time heroes, related? :-))

By tyyosh

May 20, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this

DOB, but do you get the sense that maybe that was the last straw? Some blown saves they could probably live with but that one last night seemed like one that clearly showed that this is not going to work. About Brad Lidge, he sure has his problems now, but his stuff and prior work indicates a higher upside should he get straightened out, don’t you think?

Also, I have only seen one or so post on this, but no one is making much noise about Giles’ current problems. He seems to be struggling to even make productive outs right now. If he is hitting normally, then maybe we are not having this conversation about another blown one-run save.

By Jim

May 20, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

I agree 100% with the comment on Giles. I feel the same way seeing him coming to bat with a runner on third and less than (or equal to) two outs as I do about seeing Reitsma come in to protect a 1 run lead in the 9th (or later) inning. I don’t think his problem is batting leadoff, as I have noticed no attempt to modify his all or nothing uppercut swing or to be more patient at the plate. I think right now that what you see with Giles is what you get no matter where in the order he is batting.

By davey

May 20, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

Chuck E - don’t be afraid of who you are…

By Chop Chop

May 20, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’d take Lidge over Reitsma in a heartbeat. Sure, Lidge got bombed by Pujols AND gave up a walkoff HR to Scott Podsednik in the World Series. The question is really whether Lidge would do a better job as Braves closer than Reitsma. Lidge has 28 Ks in 20 innings. He’s walked a bunch so far, but he’s also recently done what Reitsma did prior to last night’s start: have four scoreless outings in a row, including a save. Lidge may or may not have things turned around, but I personally like his chances of doing so a hell of a lot better than Reitsma’s.

By Carson

May 20, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

CAN WE MAKE A TRADE AND GET A CLOSER? If we don’t, we will lose the division and make it NO WHERE. If we get a closer, we will win the division. Simple as that. Make a damn move.

By Carson

May 20, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

CAN WE MAKE A TRADE AND GET A CLOSER? If we don’t, we will lose the division and make it NO WHERE. If we get a closer, we will win the division. Simple as that. Make a damn move.

By David O'Brien

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

Chop Chop, my point is not Lidge or Reitsma, my point is, why does it have to be Lidge or Reitsma? Why do people obsess with one name because he’s been a star before, whether or not he’s available now and regardless of what he might cost in return.

The Braves would have to give up a lot to get Lidge, who will make a lot of money soon. If you’re going to give up a lot of talent, you get a guy who doesn’t come with big question marks, like the ones currently hovering over Lidge and his psyche. Scouts who’ve seen him this year say he’s not the same guy, period, as he was before last October. So you just gamble that he will be? When you’ve had tons of trouble closing out games this year, you go get a guy having so much trouble right now with another team that he’s lost his closer job?

Sorry, doesn’t strike me as an intelligent move. You don’t make move just to make a move. You do it because you’re confident the person coming in can do a lot better than current one. And if you can’t trade for someone like that, try Ken Ray, at least briefly, to see how he does in the role.

And Carson, when you write with such indignance, “Make a damn move,” I understand the frustration. But as has been stated before, this isn’t fantasy baseball. Deals aren’t exactly popping right now. What team is going to give up a good closer right now, or a guy with the great stuff to be a good closer? Right now, while so many teams are still in playoff contention? I mean, it’s mid-May, not one-quarter of the way through the season.

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this

Actually, last night did put us over the one-quarter season mark, game No. 41.

Just 121 to go. If the Braves can just get J.T. Snow and bring up Salty and go get Ichiro, they’ll wrap this thing up and overtake those fraudulent Mets.

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

I’m kidding, of course, with that last post. I guess it’s sometimes important to clarify that with certain folks.

By Fab

May 20, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this

I think Reitsma should be done as closer….I think it is time to try Kenny Ray - he seems to be the best guy going in the bullpen now. If we were four or five up I might be more patient, but we don’t want to fall further behind the Mets and Phillies, even if it’s still early.

A lot of people might blame last night’s loss on Giles for not driving in the 10th run, or you can alternatively blame John Thomson for blowing the 5 run lead, but the bottom line is that your closer is going to have to close out one-run leads at some point in the season. Better to find out now rather than later whether your closer is up to it. Reitsma doesn’t seem to.

Seems impossible that we could win tonight with Webb vs. Travis Smith, but sports history is filled with things that shouldn’t happen but did. Let’s hope tonight is one of them.

By Jim

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

On a brighter note, the Rome Braves are 30-10 with big numbers from 3B Campbell, 1B Kaaihue, C Ramirez, LF Davis, and decent work from SS Andrus. Pitchers Reyes, Lyman, Jones, and Russell have impressive numbers. We have heard about most of these names before, but is Kaaihue any kind of a prospect?

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

Uh, Carolina lady:

You write: “Question: how many weeks in a month? Question: how many days in a month?”

Well, let’s see. 31 days in May, 30 in June, 30 in July.

Six to eight weeks, then, would be, what, 42 to 56 days, right? And what’s 60 days? Well, yeah, it’s 60 days, which is 18 days longer than six weeks (the lower end of Bobby’s guess) and four days longer than 56 days (the upper end of Bobby’s guess).

So … he’s not going to be out between six and eight weeks, is he? No, he’s going to be out a minimum of 8-1/2 weeks.

Sorry, I didn’t think my post was that confusing or incorrect. Certainly not enough so to make it worth your comparing it to Yogi Berra, since, well, I was actually just being accurate.

Peace

By Jim

May 20, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

Another name in that group is Moises Hernandez (Felix’s brother), the guy we got for Leo.

By David O'Brien

May 20, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

Agreed on Giles, who has finally started hitting a little, but absolutely not with runners in scoring position. He’s hitting .139 in those situations _ .139!

Oh, for sake of accuracy, last night’s game was No. 42. I wrote 41 in previous post, because I was looking at D-backs’ record. They’ve played one fewer.

By jon

May 20, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

DOB…..is there anyway possible Bobby lets Reits close tonight if it comes to that?

By Chop Chop

May 20, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, I agree with you that it wouldn’t make much sense to trade for a closer (Lidge) who has been struggling this year and hasn’t really been much more effective than Reitsma. As you say, the goal is to replace Reitsma with someone who will be a lot better in the role, not to make a trade for someone who might possibly be a fixer-upper. Fixer-uppers are for middle relief, not the closer’s role.

My initial thought after Reitsma blew the save last night was “Next Up: Kenny Ray!” Of course, Kenny Ray is a fixer-upper and his lack of strikeouts bothers me, but if he can get people out without giving up runs, that’s what matters. It’s certainly worth trying in the short term. He’d have to be really awful to make people long for Reitsma.

If Ray (or others) don’t pan out and the Braves are looking to shoot high for a closer, Twins closer Joe Nathan is the guy. The Twins are going to have a very hard time doing anything this year in the AL Central and will probably be looking to deal. Unfortunately, the Twins will probably wait until the deadline to see who wants Nathan the most. The odds are that Schuerholz won’t want to pay the price (whatever that price may be) and he’ll end up bringing in a few different stiffs (Guardado types) to see how they pan out.

By Chop Chop

May 20, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

I’m watching the Yankees play the Mets today. Boy, that Giambi is a great first baseman. He’s certainly no LaRoche…or Jordan…or anyone else you could think of that has any modicum of fielding ability at first base.

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

Frustration oftentimes leads to people saying things they really don’t mean.

Driving home from the office this morning, reading the blogs later this morning (with a few hours of half-hearted sleep in-between), I’ve heard and seen plenty of things about one Chris Reitsma. And, none of it was pretty.

Certainly, the dude is a nice guy. Heck, he likes hockey; he can’t be all bad. He had the one great five-week stretch last season when he was lights out. He’s solid in the clubhouse and a standup guy who’s humble when pitching well and honest when he’s not.

But enough is enough. This has reached Dan Kolb territory, and I believe it was on the May Western swing last year when Kolb spit the bit in San Diego (somebody correct me if that’s not right), leading to the opening of the revolving door at the back end of the bullpen.

I’ve long said I think Sosa would be a good candidate based on his stuff, but his Houdini impression (and lack of escaping such messes this season) lead me to think that it’s time to toss Sting Ray out there.

Why not? What’s the worst thing that can happen, another blown save? Everybody wants a big name to start the ninth (Brad Lidge). But, why not give Ray a chance? I remember 1993 when, in the aftermath of Jeff Reardon’s choke job to Ed Sprague in Game 2 of the World Series, the Braves hit West Palm without a true closer. Non-roster invitee Greg McMichael emerged and ended up having a hell of a year for a team that won 104 games. I’m not saying Ray is McMichael, or even that these Braves are the 1993 Braves.

But, the status quo at this point simply is unacceptable. Ray? Villarreal? Remlinger (who closed for a month while Rocker was suspended to start 2000)? Cormier when he comes back off the DL? McBride?

At this point, hang the “Help Wanted” sign on the bullpen door and let’s get to work. A deal may be the ulitmate solution, but right now, nobody’s going to offer anybody, with most of the teams still in the race. Come early July, that might be an option.

Between now and then, it’s gotta be somebody else other than Reitsma in the ninth with the game on the line. He simply hasn’t done it, and too many games have been lost already to let this go on any further.

As for tonight, there’s company in town, and I’m going fishing. Hopefully, the sounds coming through my headphones will be better than last night.

By Andy

May 20, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

I am sure we could go after Mike Gonzalez of the Pirates. The Pirates are going nowhere and this guy is a stud. He would definitely be a huge upgrade over Reitsma. I think he would be easier to obtain than Duscherer or Betancourt, since they are on contending teams.

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

There is no spellcheck on the blog … should be “A deal may be the ULTIMATE solution …”

Heck, nobody ever said I could spell, and it is a blog. If you can’t spell, that’s cool.

But, if you can pitch, there may be an opening for you in the ninth inning!

By Eric

May 20, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

I agree, put Ray in the closer spot. DOB is right, the guy has “thumpin intro” writen all over him. Combine that with the worlds SECOND LARGEST (I believe it has already been trumped) high-def jumbo-tron, and well, it could be really bangin.

By ssiscribe

May 20, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

How weird is it to be rooting for the Yankees? Four in the ninth to tie it, and the Yanks ran Billy Wagner, another big name closer who commanded a huge salary in the offseason but who sure struggled today.

Travis Smith vs. Brandon Webb? Stranger things have happened, y’all. Somebody asked would Cox use Reitsma if a save situation presents itself tonight. If the Braves get a chance to get a save tonight, given the mismatch on the mound, they best not blow it.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 20, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

DOB, Reitsma has to go right now. Be honest with me. Was there one guy on that field last night that was at all surprised at what happened. You cannot tell me that anybody on that team has any confidence in Reitsma. I agree that Thompson hold some responsibility for the loss but the fact is that Reitsma time after time loses games. What is Bobby’s thing with him. Does he have some comprimising photos of him or something. I mean c’mon how more obvious should it be. We all talk about LaRoche’s play last Sunday, but what about Reitsma last night. Can someone…anyone tell me why in the name of all that is right would you throw a 0-2 pitch inside to a guy that had just swung horribly at two pitches away? What was he thinking? I was so upset last night that it took me a good hour to go to sleep. You know how that game Smoltz pitched at Shea is the type of game that gets a team going. Well, that crap last night is the type of game that puts you in a slump. I just hope I’m wrong. Apparently, we have to be up by no less than six runs for us to feel comfortable to win the game. I don’t care who closes. It will be better than Reitsma. Hell, I think we should maybe give Pete Orr a chance. I am sure he pitched sometime during his life. At least he would have more sense than to throw a 0-2 pitch inside to a guy that will swing at anything.

By geauxbraves2000

May 20, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this

In 1995, the Braves train took off out of the station on the way to a WS win when Bobby Cox handed Mark Wohlers the ball. There very well could be another 1995 Wohlers in that pen if BC would just TRY SOMEONE ELSE.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 20, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

He needs to try anyone else. I used the analogy the other day that Reitsma looks like a 14 year old who is being forced to go to church. He just lumbers out to the mound with no look of confidence. He knows he has no business out there. I can’t believe he is the best option we have. Is someone telling me that Joey Devine is worse? No way. Reitsma either goes back to the setup role or just goes. I don’t care!!!!!!!!!

By Shawn B

May 20, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

I dont see a viable option that anybody would be willing to trade to the Braves, so I agree with you DOB, why not give Ken Ray a shot, he’s been the only consistent guy out in the pen so far this season. And since everyone else is nitpicking with you today, July has 31 days, not 30. ;) Hehe

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 20, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

Just think what our record would be if we had a half way decent closer. I don’t have a problem with Ray closing. At this poing what do we have to lose. Last night’s loss really sucks because we need to take two of three and are now forced to win the last two to do that. They have their ace going tonight, so last night was the night to win. I hope the boys realize they have to score a lot of runs so Bobby doesn’t bring in “The Closer”. Because apparently no matter how horrific he is, Bobby is going to stick with him. I’m telling you that Reitsma got something on Bobby that must be pretty darn bad.

By Carroll

May 20, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

sscribe: I agree with the basic premise of your post: try something new. That’s all we can ask. Hell, give me a shot at it…or my grandma for that matter…at least there’s a chance that someone else could do it. But we ALL know that Reeksma will blow roughly one of every two. UNACCEPTABLE!! And it has been ever since he got here. What ON EARTH does BC see in him???!!!

By gotigers72

May 20, 2006 05:48 PM | Link to this

DOB , to answer your question about the 2 pitchers that should go. Moylan is a given. His sidewheeling righty stuff just hangs there across the plate waiting to be hit. The other I would send down for the moment is Chuck James. I would send him to Richmond and let him start while seeing how HoRam does. James is a starter, not a reliever, so he needs to get some innings in somewhere. You’ll have to admit that after an outstanding rookie year, HoRam has been pretty bad since. He had great command [control] when he first came up, but now throws too many pitches over the plate. I even heard Bobby say that when he first came up, he would hit the mitt most of the time, but that hasn’t been the case lately. Bobby also said HoRam has fallen in love with his offspeed stuff when his fastball [89-90] is good enough and should be thrown more. If he comes back and doesn’t do better than before, I would package him and someone else in a trade and let Chuck take his place. HoRam reminds me too much of Odalis who has been demoted to the Dodger bullpen.

By Jim

May 20, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

gotigers, I agree. James needs to get innings as a starter. That leaves a bullpen of Cormier, McBride, Paronto, Ray, Rem, Reitsma, and Villareal. (Better than last year except where it counts most— the closer)

By GAW

May 20, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

Mariano blew it Friday night. Wagner blew a four run lead today. Let the trading begin.

By ncscoots

May 20, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this

oh, man…I’m glad Reitsma is out of town, with the lynch-mob tone of this blog. wow…though I admit my tolerance for the guy is gone, too. How a guy with three plus pitches (and Reitsma’s stuff isn’t in question…I hope…if so, trust me, his artillery is plenty good) fares so poorly is truly perplexing. The guy should be dominating, but he’s not, and I don’t know if he can be fixed. In any event, who next? Villareal isn’t the answer (take a look at his WHIP); neither Cormier nor Ray are swing-and-miss pitchers (though I really like both of them); McBride has too much baby-face (I know, it’s a stupid reason, but I had to come up with something!); and Sosa, well, puh-leeze, I just can’t get my head around that with what we’ve seen from him this year. No established closer is (realistically) available, and who wants to depend on another minor-league callup to handle the job? Not me, and I doubt BC or JS want to, either. I don’t know the answer, I can only come up with reasons that our currently available options SHOULDN’T be exercised. I can only hope that JS is pondering the problem even as we speak, and will come up with a solution.

By ncscoots

May 20, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this

and, hey, DOB, for the record, what IS Kenny Ray’s nickname??? Is is “Sting”, “Death”, “Killer”, or what? I keep seeing several variations in the blog, and I want to be factual if I choose to call him by his nickname!

By john

May 20, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this

I do agree that Reitsma has to go now,How much longer is John S and Booby c gonna waste on this loser,it is a fact that Reitsma is no closer,i think the Braves shoukd give the job to Ken Ray and also have a backup plan that includes signing Danny Graves who at one time was a descent closer,look atit this way,if Ray fails as closer give Graves a shot,he could be used as a setup man for Ray ,also Cubs have been wanting to trade scott Sullivan,he saved 21 games a few yrs ago so he might be a good gamble to try also as a backupman to Ray and as a potential closer if Ray fails,anything is better than Reitsma,Remeber Reitsma was a starter at one time,try him at starting if you are not gonna get rid of him,he is so bad as a closer that i can’t see any team who would want him,maybe trying as a starter might work,it is worth a shot.Sometimes a player needs a change of scenery and Graves and the Braves just might be a good match but you never know if you don’t try,as they say nothing ventured nothing gained.Wake up john s before it is too late,He who hesitates is lost,is trhat what you want John S for the Braves,keep hesitating and farting around with Reitsma and see where it gets you and the Braves.Farts stink and so does Reitsma so John S stop the farting and Can Reitsma now.

By Jim

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

John, Dennis Eckersley and Rollie Fingers were pretty good closers in the past too. None of the people you mentioned are as good as Reitsma is today.

By Stuck in Kentucky

May 20, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

DOB I said I was just wondering not praying for Lidge to play for the Braves. You know as well as anyone that a change of uniform can change a players performance. Plus he would be putting on a Braves uni not a Devil Ray uni. I know you think a lot of Reitsma as a person, but I do appreciate your honesty that he is not the answer at closer. It seems that this is tough for you and I for one appreciate your professionalism. I had rather Reitsma start closing games, that would be my prayer.

By elbravo x

May 20, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

common Braves, win one for x!

By Chris

May 20, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this

What happened to McCann? Was he taken out at the plate like Estrada was last year? Hope he isn’t out long, otherwise we have “automatic out” Pratt playing every day and lose 150 points of BA from the catchers spot.

By Bryan

May 20, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

wow, dave, just read your post. After Chris’s meltdown and McCann out of the game … that post seems like years ago!

So sad.

Bryan

By elbravo x

May 20, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

Here comes Salty!

By Carolina Lady

May 20, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Wow, DOB, we sure mis-communicated earlier! I wasn’t serious, just an obviously failed attempt at a little levity. Sorry. I sure didn’t intend any ruffled feathers.

(I still think you’re great.)

By gotigers72

May 20, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe baseball still lets baserunners run over the catcher. I umpired high school ball a few years ago, and any runner that ran over any fielder was thrown out and had to sit out the next game to boot. That is just plain ridiculous. I liked Pete Rose ‘til he ran over Ray Fosse and ruined his career. That rule should be changed.

There have been 3 instances this week. Posada got run over and has had to sit some games, then the White Sox catcher [of all people] ran over Michael Barrett today, after which Barrett punched him [way to go Michael], and now our shining young catcher, leading the leagure in hitting, goes down. I don’t know how bad it is, but it looked bad.

If I was managing, Byrnes would get one in the ear during his next at bat. Several of the Braves players looked mighty pi**ed off. Wouldn’t be surprised to see a bench clearing brawl before this series is over.

By MBATL

May 20, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this

Carroll, don’t care how many saves Chris has blown… I’ve never said he was ‘the answer.’ May have said that I’ve heard a lot of baseball people say he has great stuff, which they have … but whatever. Just don’t know why you singled me out. On the other hand, who cares?

Hope McCann’s ankles are flexible. That didn’t look good at all. What a blow that would be. Could be sort of an eery replay of what happened with Estrada. Hopefully just a sprain. Skip and Pete say they expect Pena, not Salty, will be the replacement if needed.

By Miranda

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

This isn’t good… it’s killing me!

It rolled his left leg… wasn’t like Estrada … in my opinion after watching it several times I think it’s gonna be below the knee since it was bent so much when he was comin’ off the field..

maybe ankle? man I hope it’s not bad… this IS NOT good!

By student

May 20, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

“Here Comes Salty!” Are you kidding me? We just lost the hitting leader in the national league and you are excited about the possibility that a guy who has been struggling in AA might come up? Yeah great.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 20, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

carolina lady, jimmy smith is sad tonight - and the blog is sad. let’s hope young mccann is not badly hurt. now, journalism … journalists in search of a pulitzer prize must be accurate in their reporting. sometimes striving for accuracy and the heavy consumption of cheese on the road makes journalists grumpy and out of sorts. this may be the case with dob who probably now regrets being testy with the lady from the outerbanks. journalist jimmy smith will be a gentleman journalist and wish you a pleasant good evening. baby seal says, hi. now, paronto … gave up a flare hit and then got the dp. 1.12 era

By Miles

May 20, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this

the baseball gods do not like us this year. McCann’s injury is a huge blow to the team…as if we didnt have enough problems already.

By MBATL

May 20, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

On McCann: Pete reports left lateral ankle sprain… day to day… not a lot of details, but doesn’t seem as bad as it might’ve been. Hope the early prognosis is right!

By Chris

May 20, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

That 9-2 stretch seems like it happened about a month ago now doesn’t it? Whether its Pena or Pratt at catcher, we have just gone from the NL’s leading hitter to someone who will be lucky to bat .230

TBS just said “lateral ankle sprain, day to day”. Hopefully it won’t be too many days. Have to expect him to miss most of the road trip at least though. Just have to hope the Mets don’t get hot and we stay within shouting distance of first, a 3-6 (at best) road trip is looking more and more likely.

By Carolina Lady

May 20, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this

Hi, Jimmy! Thanks, I feel better. This whole game tonight is sad, isn’t it? DOB works hard and travel is HARD; I just wanted him to know I only intended a bit of levity. (I interpret 2 months as 60 days, and 2 months = 4 weeks (x2 = 8), so I read it as close to Yogi’s “cash, which is just as good as money”. Truly I failed, didn’t I??) :-)

Big hug to my favorite Baby Seal and journalist from……where is it now?

By Miranda

May 20, 2006 11:49 PM | Link to this

Hopefully that’s all it is… I know that’s a huge relief to me!

By MBATL

May 20, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

Sounds like McCann’s leg injury is less life-threatening than Barbaro’s, at least.

This is downright ugly. That’s baseball, I guess. Hey, 2 bad games notwithstanding, we’ve made up half the deficit in 2 weeks. Tomorrow’s another day.

By David

May 21, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this

On the bright side, we do not lose any ground to the Phillies and Mets. But, we need to get on another winning streak soon …

By br

May 21, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this

gotigers 72,

Michael Barrett is a punk. So he got flattened at the plate, it happens all the time in baseball, esp. catchers. He was in the way of A.J. and he got run over, can’t fault A.J. for being aggressive and he did not intend to hurt the guy, esp. since he’s a catcher himself. Yes, I’m glad Barrett did not get injured but he acted like a little sissy by punching him, now he’ll be out for about 3-5 games (suspension) and they’re already w/o Derrek Lee…not very smart on Barrett’s part. BTW, I am a huge fan of A.J. I love the way he plays, he plays hard and loves baseball. He doesn’t care about stats or glory, he just wants to win, and just about every year he’s played his team has been in contention. He reminds me of a throwback player, like Rose, aggressive, tough as nails, and will run through a brick wall (or Barrett in this matter!) all for the better of the TEAM! I would definately take A.J. on my team any day! Barrett? Way to go moron, you just officially sealed your team’s fate, all for being a little punk!

By br

May 21, 2006 12:29 AM | Link to this

BTW, Dusty Baker himself even said it was a clean play and he was an aggressive player back in the day, so he would know!

By Kentavo

May 21, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this

What about Keith Foulke??????????

By Miles

May 21, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this

chipper and andruw need to step it up offensively. I sure hope Chipper isnt in steep decline as his low SLG% would suggest.

By Andy

May 21, 2006 12:52 AM | Link to this

AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I just have to get it out—the pen gave away last night(a la two games to the Mets)then we lose McCantonught. AAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 01:25 AM | Link to this

Terrible performance by the Braves, but huge relief that McCann’s injury isn’t serious (the ONLY relief they got tonight, if you know what I mean. Man, were Cormier and Villarreal putrid).

Anyway, just got back from clubhouse and filed an updated story for paper. Should be posted soon. McCann walking with split, will use crutches tonight and maybe a couple days, but Braves think _ hope _ he won’t need to go on DL and will only be out a few days or a week. We’ll know a lot more tomorrow after they check for overnight swelling, etc

It looked really bad after it happened. Bobby and McCann and everybody else thought he was done for the year. I’d suggest that losing McCann is the single biggest blow this team could suffer, and I mean the biggest. They could even get by for a month or so without Andruw, just move Langy over to CF, etc. And since Andruw’s so streaky, they go weeks without a lot of offense from him sometimes anyway. Point is, they have nobody to fill McCann’s shoes. Fortunately, it doesn’t appear they’ll need to.

And for the person who wrote “here comes salty!” or whatever you wrote with the exclamation mark at the end, I’d hope you’re drinking tonight and have an excuse for that idiotic comment.

Because sir, other than not being half as good as McCann defensively, and hitting 130 points lower in Double-A than McCann is hitting in the majors, yeah, Salty sure seems like he’d get ‘er done filling in for McCann, doesn’t he. Wow. What a comment. That’s the top one in quite some time. Utter lunacy.

Carolina Lady, no problem earlier. Didn’t mean to snap at you. I know you were just busting my chops.

Oh, and someone asked about the old post. They don’t let us post new ones on weekend. Just want monday through friday.

Braves are 3-10 in last 13 road games, 9-1 in last 10 at home. Yikes.

Oh, one last thing: Giles and Renteria were out of lineup tonight just to get a rest. They’ll play tomorrow.

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 01:27 AM | Link to this

Typo: McCann walking with splint, not split.

Later

By teoa

May 21, 2006 01:34 AM | Link to this

Well, I think it’s safe to say the Estrada trade wasn’t one of Schuerholtz’s finer moments. Cormier and The Vulcher were the best they could get for this guy? If his trade value was hurt that much by the injury last year, wouldn’t it have made more sense to keep him at least through the spring to prove that he had recovered?

Also, I think this Braves team is still no better than the 17-21 team they were before that series against the worst team in baseball. The fact that those games were so difficult against a minor league team was probably cause for concern rather than optimism. This team still has HUGE holes…terrible bullpen, weak at first base, weak at back-up catcher (which is more of a problem now with McCann out), one of the worst “closers” in major league history, etc, etc. (Really, can anyone think of another closer worse than Reitsma that was able to maintain that role for as long as he has? Actually I’m not sure which is worse: Reitsma or the fact that Bobby refuses to try something different.)

And finally, tough break for Travis Smith…going up against Webb and Bobby throwing in the towel with that lineup. I’m sure Smith would have liked to have seen Giles and Renteria out there behind him. Interesting time to sit both of them. I am definitely a proponent of keeping your bench players sharp with occasional starts rather than the platoons that Bobby prefers, but I wouldn’t recommend inserting more than one on any given night. And when Orr plays, it’s time to give Langer a shot at leadoff. Put Orr at 8 or 9 (depending on who’s pitching.) It’s tough to score when you know your leadoff hitter is never going to get on base.

By brian

May 21, 2006 01:48 AM | Link to this

teao, it’s also safe to say you’re not very smart. Cormier had a 3.00 ERA before this game. All those runs were allowed in the same game, the day before he went on the DL against the Brewers. He only had one rehab apperience too. Cormier has been very good. Villerreal has been good too. I think the trade is a good one. It gives us 2 good guys in the pen. Everyone needs to stop judging guys on one preformance.

By forcesaberz

May 21, 2006 02:20 AM | Link to this

Yeah, the estrada trade helped our bullpen a ton….they just had a bad outing 2night

By teoa

May 21, 2006 03:13 AM | Link to this

Brian, it’s safe to say you are terribly misinformed and cannot back up your ignorant claims without resorting to personal attacks. This is usually a sure sign that someone has no clue what they are talking about — otherwise you would back up your statements with facts rather than attacks, now wouldn’t you, Brian? Could it be those facts don’t exist?

Villarreal clearly has not “been good.” The most important role of a relief pitcher is to hold leads — particularly in close games (winning by 1-3 runs.) Do you realize that Villarreal has failed EVERY SINGLE TIME he has pitched under those circumstances? For the year, he has 0 Holds and 4 Blown Saves. Has any pitcher in baseball blown more than 4 saves? He has to be near the top of the list if not leading the league. For his career, he has 14 Holds, 0 Saves, and 10 Blown Saves. I’ve got news for you Brian: This is not good (and it didn’t all happen “in 1 game.”) Sure, Villarreal has eaten some innings and pitched well in low pressure situations, but guys that can do that are a dime a dozen. I would say Villarreal has been mediocre at best considering he has been a complete failure when it comes to protecting leads in close games.

Cormier has been pretty steady in maybe 13 out of 16 games. Still, he has a 6.18 career ERA and I don’t think his stuff is good enough that you should expect him to continue to put up numbers like he did early in the year. 28 baserunners and only 8 strikeouts in 17.2 innings is nothing to write home about. I do think he has been much better than Villarreal though, and for his career 17 Holds with only 1 Blown Save suggests he steps up when it matters (although he rarely pitches as late as the 8th inning.) Is he far superior to what the Braves would have found if they filled one more bullpen spot through free agency or another minor league call up? Who knows, but my guess is just slightly.

All that said, you missed my point. My criticism of the Estrada trade has less to do with what Villarreal and Cormier have done this year and more to do with the fact that Estrada is a very good player. He is just one year removed from being an all-star catcher that hit .314 in 134 games. All-star catchers that are durable, can hit, and handle a pitching staff well are generally hard to come by and therefore pretty valuable. I understand the reason for trading Estrada (McCann), but I think the Braves should have gotten a lot more for an all-star catcher. If other teams had doubts that he would return to all-star form after the injury, then the Braves should have waited until those doubts subsided. I think at the very least the Braves should have gotten a dominant setup man with potential to close (another Farnsworth type) and I don’t see that in either Villarreal or Cormier. Decent relievers are not all that hard to find — just look at the success of career journeymen like Ray and Paronto — so in my estimation, the Braves got the short end of that deal. You can disagree, but see if you can justify your argument a little better than just questioning my intelligence. I doubt you would find many knowledgeable baseball insiders who agree with your claim that the Estrada trade was a good deal for the Braves — especially since he has returned to all-star form. But then again, maybe none of the baseball experts are as “smart” as you either, Brian.

By Marc

May 21, 2006 03:25 AM | Link to this

Besides all of the reasons Reeksma stinks posted above, I will give you another. The dude seems to start loosing streaks. The Braves were playing great ball, and after the Diamondbacks had come back on the Braves, the Braves came back and scored to take the lead. It looked like our winning streak would continue. Who knows with that game one win in the series, maybe the Braves would have had a better mindset. But no, in comes Reeksma to take all the wind out of the sails, and send this team into a tailspin. If we loose tomorrow we have a three game loosing streak, and then we have to play a tough Padres team on the road. reeksma should not get another game to close, the guy simply soesn’t have it, how long can the guy keep trying to prove himself. I’ve said it before, but here goes again, his stuff is to hittable. Sure the theory is he will produce a lot of ground balls, the problem is the more balls that are put in play the better chance of a hit. The Braves need a closer who can strike a guy out. I don’t care who it is. I would take Lidge, sure he has struggled. But he throws hard and maybe getting him out of that hitters park in Houston would help. At this point I would rather Mcdowell get out there and close some games. Something has to change.

By john

May 21, 2006 06:44 AM | Link to this

Jim,any one is better than Reitsma,Fingers,Eckersley,Goose,Sutter are all old and out of baseball but anyone of them could come back right now and pitch better than Reitsma,players need a change of scenery sometimes and its a gamble that might payoff and it might not but at least try and see what happens,i still say give anyone the ball other than reitsma.

By HEAD COACH

May 21, 2006 06:56 AM | Link to this

Cox threw in the towel before the first pitch. He should have kept McCann on the bench along with Renteria and Giles. McCann will be out for what , a week to ten days with an ankle sprain. Losing McCanns bat was the last thing we needed and now its gut check time. Possibly getting swept by the Diamondbacks before playing the red hot Padres is a bad omen.

By GM R

May 21, 2006 07:51 AM | Link to this

Not so hot now! Let’s face it, until this club has a new owner they will do no more than stumble on, hoping to keep as close as possible to the Mets and Phils. So forget any rumours about a trade for D-Train until the sale is complete. If Time Warner really wanted this team to win they would have released the dollars for a real closer (they cost at least $8M a year - get over it) and would have sanctioned a replacement for Hampton, if only for 2006. JS has done a great job covering for owners who don’t want to spend but any fool could see the situation for what it was with the Mondesi experiment last year (do I hear the words straws and clutching?). Let’s be honest, the Braves caught a huge break with the unexpected success of the youngsters, and let’s not kid ourselves it was all part of a big plan, it was forced upon the team by necessity, which was itself the result of payroll cutting. The sooner we see the back of Time Warner the better, and in the meantime they laugh at us for our loyalty in continuing to watch a below standard product. I may be a big Braves fan but I am not an idiot.

By Joe Roman

May 21, 2006 09:25 AM | Link to this

You should change your posting name from Head Coach to Head Case. Criticizing with the advantage of hindsight is about as cheap as it gets. That being said, I think the players are to be forgiven for going into the tank after McCann’s injury. It demonstrates the solidarity of this edition of the Braves and will serve them well long after this blowout is forgotten. Additionally, how amazing is it that McCann’s injury isn’t more serious? If he can come out of something like that relatively intact, his chances for a long and succesful career behind the plate look great.

By Joe Roman

May 21, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

If your idea of a new owner is one who plays fantasy baseball with real money and trades away our prospects for aging “stars”, GM R, I hope you are dead wrong. The Braves have the most productive farm system in the game, and having guys like McCann, Francoeur and Langerhans who make the minimum but give maximum performance is just good business sense. Sure, a few bits and pieces would help, but throwing money at an “established” closer is an enormous gamble. Did you see what Billy Wagner did against the Yankees yesterday? Reitsma couldn’t have done any worse. I’ve got a feeling, though, you might not have Chris to ‘kick around anymore’ very soon. Did you see Bobby’s reactions after his battling practice pitches meltdown in that Friday night disaster? Cox gives his players a long leash, but when it plays out, there’s a choke chain. The pun is intended.

By Hal

May 21, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

Lets review Billy wagner comes in with a four run lead retires ONE batter and the mets lose in extra ….now im not saying CR is as good or better then Wagner BUT closings a tough job Lidge Wagner Rivera all have had melt downs of epic proportions this year ! While i dont think CR has the stuff nessary to close eather, closers dont grow on trees and im pretty sure if they did JS would have already picked one .Also a couple of the other options couldent get anyone out in the 7 th and 8th innings last night let alone with the game on the line in the 9th .The Best option at closer is Smoltzie but that Aint happin eather so it could be a season where haveing a strong drink fat cig or antacid handy is the way to get through the 9th

By Adam

May 21, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

DOB, no one to replace McCann? What about that Saltamacchia guy, or whatever.

Also, the Braves are doing that thing where they beat up on the crappy teams (i.e. Washington, Florida) and crumble against good teams (i.e. Arizona). And they’ve never been able to beat good pitching.

This is all the same as last year - good enough to win the East, bad enough to exit in the first round. No problem.

By student

May 21, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this

You know, after reading the rant of GM R I went and looked at the payroll stats. We really aren’t that low. The braves actually have the 10th highest payroll in the National League. We aren’t as high as the mets, but they’re only outspending us by 10 mil or so. We have a set budget, we aren’t the yankees and Sheurholtz doesn’t have carte blanche to just buy whoever he wants, but the team isn’t being starved. As far as all the whining about “inferior product.” What? We ain’t the Marlins friend, this is actually one of the more solid braves lineups from top to bottom I’ve seen. They’ve been erratic at times, but its not because of a lack of quality. We have three starting pitchers going pretty well right now as well. Closers are silly things to spend a lot of money on. Cox should give Ken Ray a chance and see if we can solve the problem on the cheap, and see if you can manage not to choke on all of this righteous rage about…god knows what.

By john

May 21, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

how about lets trade Salty,Thorman and Larew to the Marlins for Dontrelle Willis and Joe Borowski,this will accomplish two things,one a desperately needed starter in Willis and a Closer in Borowski.Throw Reitsma in free.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

Student, after hearing your philosophy on closers, I was expecting your next comment to be “The playoffs are overrated.”

Do the names Charlie Liebrandt, Jeff Reardon, Mark Wohlers and Kyle Farnsworth mean anything to you? They each gave up a crucial homerun from that “silly” closer’s role that changed the series. I guess you’re contempt on winning the East, which is as far as “Death” Ray will take us.

Seriously, do you see anyone in our system capable of shutting down Pujols, Edmonds and Rolen in the playoffs? We couldn’t even contain Brad Ausmus.

Stay in school, “student.”

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

Adam, do you not read any of the previous posts? Or read the stuff on our website about the injury, etc?

Saltalamacchia is batting .212 with four homers and 17 RBIs in 40 games at Class AA Mississippi,

Better not to simply post here without checking what the previous dialogue has been in the blog, or we end up being entirely repetitive. That “Salty guy” you referred to is not hitting his weight _ literally not hitting his weight, since he weighs 235 _ at Double-A, so it’d be quite a stretch to say he’s ready for the majors.

As I posted earlier, since your scroll button apparently isn’t working:

And for the person who wrote “here comes salty!” or whatever you wrote with the exclamation mark at the end, I’d hope you’re drinking tonight and have an excuse for that idiotic comment.

Because sir, other than not being half as good as McCann defensively, and hitting 130 points lower in Double-A than McCann is hitting in the majors, yeah, Salty sure seems like he’d get ‘er done filling in for McCann, doesn’t he. Wow. What a comment. That’s the top one in quite some time. Utter lunacy.

NOW, FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL WHO MIGHT HAVE WONDERED WHY MY GAME STORY POSTED ONLINE STOPPED IN MID-SENTENCE, DON’T ASK ME. THAT WAS OBVIOUSLY NOT THE WAY IT WAS WRITTEN AND FILED LATE LAST NIGHT. SINCE NO ONE’S IN THE OFFICE TO FIX IT ONLINE, I’LL JUST FILE HERE THE REMAINDER OF THE GAME STORY, SINCE SOME OF YOU MIGHT BE CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT BRAVES SAID ABOUT THE COLLISION OR CURIOUS HOW THE PITCHER WE HAD A PICTURE OF ONLINE ACTUALLY DID IN THE GAME. HERE WAS THE SECOND HALF OF THE GAME STORY:

Webb (7-0) had eight strikeouts in his fourth career complete game and second shutout. He matched Randy Johnson’s franchise-record 7-0 start in 2000.

Braves journeyman Travis Smith was charged with four runs (two earned) and five hits in 4-1/3 innings of his first major league start since 2004. He filled in for Kyle Davies, who had groin surgery and will be out at least two months.

Horacio Ramirez is scheduled to come off the DL and move into the rotation spot on May 30. The Braves have an off day on

Thursday, which will permit Ramirez to make one more rehab start before returning.

Smith allowed only two baserunners and one hit through three innings, before chaos and pain ensued in the fourth.

Eric Byrnes, who had three hits including a homer, reached on an error by Chipper Jones to start the inning. Then Tracy doubled to the right-field corner. to begin the play that first appeared it might end McCann’s season.

Second baseman Pete Orr made a strong relay throw to the plate, but the ball and Byrnes reached the plate simultaneously. Byrnes lowered his right shoulder and plowed through McCann, who was blocking the plate.

“It was a clean play,” McCann said. “I was just trying to block the plate. I took it away from him, and he did the right thing.”

Cox said, “It wasn’t a dirty slide or anything. Nothing like Johnny’s collision.”

Estrada suffered whiplash and a concussion in a collision when the Angels’ Darrin Erstad plowed through him at the plate last June. McCann was brought up from the minors to replace Estrada, who was ineffective after the incident.

Saturday’s violent collision jarred the ball loose. McCann got off the ground and hobbled a few steps before falling to the ground in pain. He had to be helped off the field by Braves trainers and couldn’t put any weight on the leg.

Losing the 22-year-old emerging star for any significant length could be a severe blow to the Braves, who have no major league-caliber catchers who are healthy and having productive seasons in their minor league system.

Top prospect Jarrod Saltalamacchia was batting .212 with four homers and 17 RBIs in 40 games at Class AA Mississippi, and Brayan Pena was hitting .226 with no homers and seven RBIs in 32 games at Class AAA Richmond. Veteran Eddie Perez’s surgically repaired shoulder won’t permit him to catch.

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

GM R, I just read your post, by the way.

One of the most poorly informed and illogical posts we’ve had here in months. Congrats. Now keep trying.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Excuuuuuuuuuuuuuuse me for missing the Salty update. I’m taking my laptop to Compuserv after I post this to get the scroll feature fixed. I thought it was the scroll feature, but I wasn’t sure. It’s a good thing that you’re not only a baseball guru, but a technology wiz as well.

Thanks.

By David O'Brien

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

Oh, and HEAD COACH: Cox is criticized for not playing McCann enough, and you criticize him for not benching him tonight with Renteria and Giles, who were simply being rested for a game.

Uh, what’s it gonna be. He rests the next day whenever they lose a series opener? He comes out after they fall behind by a few runs? He rests the second game of a three-game series, against a right-hander?

He’s the freakin’ NL batting leader and just had about three days off in a week. And you want him out of the lineup against Brandown Webb!!??

HEAD COACH, go to the corner with GM R. Your post just as awful as his.

By student

May 21, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

Ack, that last one liner was a real clunker, you need to keep working on those. Hmmm, of course Farnsworth was a guy we went out and traded for. Honestly, I thought he was pretty good. Bad game at the wrong time. Wohlers of course was a great closer in 95 when we won it although he fell apart afterwards. Its not that I think the closer role is unimportant, its more that I’m not convinced that we need to give up a lot in a big trade to get someone. You would think the Dan Kolb disaster was enough to convince you that bringing someone in isn’t always going to work.

Not quite sure why you think Ray can’t be a solid closer in the playoffs or the regular season. The guy has a 1.35 era and hasn’t given up a run in his last 11 appearances. Yeah, the guy doesn’t have experience in the role and you never know how someone will handle it until you give him a chance, but thats just as true with Ray as with someone you trade for. If it doesn’t work out, then by all means see if we can find someone around the trading deadline, but I’m not sure who you think we are going to get that is going to be all that good. I can’t imagine why the braves would want to import Lidge and his problems. Remember Wholers? When closers fall apart, they sometimes never get it back.

By Miranda

May 21, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

DOB… any new news on McCann this morning? Which I guess it’s a little too early anyway.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

Student, I personally thought the one-liner was brilliant. I’m still laughing at it, as a matter of fact. Yeah, you could say Farnsworth picked the wrong time to give up FIVE RUNS IN TWO INNINGS (yes, I know they weren’t all earned). Yeah, Wohlers was great in ‘96 off Leyritz (and by the way, Cox almost screwed up the ‘95 Series by trusting Wohlers in the ninth - Glavine had pitched 8 innings of one-hit, shutout ball and should have finished that game). And how was Dan Kolb a lesson learned? We gave up nothing and spent nothing for him, hence, we got nothing. See how it works? Yeah, and I’d like to see you put money on “Death” Ray in the playoffs.

Stay in school, son.

By Miles

May 21, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Adam,

we gave up Capellan for Kolb who is probably a closer in waiting.

1.01 WHIP, 4.94 ERA, 17 Ks, 8 BB in 23.2 innings.

Ignore the ERA and look at that WHIP. We could sure use someone like him at this point in time.

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

Miranda, it’s not even 10 a.m. here yet. I’m getting ready to go to the park.

Adam, no problem. Glad I could help point out the problem with your laptop. I work part-time for the Geek Squad, too (you know, those guys who drive around in the VWs fixing computers? OK, not a good joke if you have to explain it. Sorry).

Talk to you folks in a couple hours

By gotigers72

May 21, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

Ray has done very well. Usually when he comes in, it’s 1-2-3, or at the most 1 baserunner. But he is not overpowering. We need someone at closer who can get a strikeout when needed. That’s why most closers have a mid 90s or above fastball. So in tight situations they can get that K. That’s one reason Kolb isn’t a closer. Doesn’t have that dynamite fastball he can throw by a hitter when he needs to. Smoltz had it, Wohlers had it [his later problems were control], heck, even Rocker had it [his problems were control and the fact that he’s a head case]. We need a strikeout pitcher at closer, and Reitsma is not a strikeout pitcher. He had 1 good month at closer, but other than that…well you know the history.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

Miles,

4.94 ERA? 8 walks in 23.2 innings? You’re right, he is a BRAVES closer in the waiting. Those are horrible numbers, what the hell are you talking about.?

By Miles

May 21, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

Adam, 8 walks in 23.2 innings is better than anyone currently in our pen. I’d take him in a heartbeat over Reitsma, Moylan, Villareal, etc.

By Miles

May 21, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

Also, oppnonents are only batting .190 against him!!!!! He will finish with an ERA under 3 by the end of the season. All of his peripherals support this.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

Actually, Cappellan’s name fits in perfectly with Reitsma, Moylan, Villareal, etc.

If you’re trying to dispute the fact that we gave up nothing for Kolb, please, just stop. Or, keep exposing your ignorance. He’s not a closer.

By student

May 21, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

Huh? Wohlers had a 123 inning in the bottom of the 9th. So how did Cox almost blow it? As Miles pointed out, you are simply wrong about Kolb. And remember that stiff Mariano Rivera. He blew game 7 against the Diamondbacks. I think your criteria is a little off. I still would like to hear a reason why Ray won’t work as a closer besides that you had never heard of him before last year. You seem to have a lot of scorn for a guy with a sub 1.5 era. He has a better fastball than people seem to think, he throws in the low to mid 90’s. I’ve also always thought that the traditonal wisdom that your closer has to be overpowering is off. Trevor Hoffman doesn’t have an incredibly overpowering fastball, he relies on a change up. If Ray can get guys out in the 7th, he should be able to get guys out in the 9th. Its not like you go against better hitters in the 9th inning or something.

By Chris

May 21, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

Adam has just taken too many bong hits already today.

I thought it was a mistake to give up Cappellan. I’d like his 6.46 K/9 to be a bit higher and his ERA to be a bit lower (5 of his 16 hits allowed have been HR). But he’s only 25, and I thought he had too big of an upside to trade for Kolb. Obviously right about that one.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

Rivera? You’re going to pull the Rivera card? He’s the most successful closer in Post-Season history? 2001? What about all those other years?

As for “right now” give Ray a shot, sure. And I even said he might save 30 games. But so what? I’ve also watched the Braves choke every year in the post-season minus ‘95, so excuse me for being pessimistic when it comes to KENNY “DEATH” RAY in the post-season.

And I refuse partake in this horrible side argument about Capellan/Kolb. That’s just rediculous, regardless of any bong hit I may or may not have taken.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

ridiculous

By another brian

May 21, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

don’t want to be confused with teao’s favorite brian

Braves will have caught a huge break if McCann can even just miss a few weeks, much less a few days. As far as the bullpen, DOB is right, Ray deserves a chance. Boyer’s injury is killing the Braves right now.

Only other closer options are Francisco Cordero in Texas (? for Thomson) or Hansen in Boston with Palpebon emergence (for Thomson and Betemit, or Betemit and Devine). Short term options would be Mesa in Colorado. I would not touch Guardado.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

Hey, to break it up I got a question, Does anyone know where the Braves will be staying when they come to Chicago for the weekend? I am a lifelong fan who thinks it’ll be easier to get an autograph at the Team’s Hotel than at the game. If anyone could help me out I’d appreciate it. Oh yea, How about a trade for Shannon Stewart and/or Juan Rincon. Leadoff hitter and closer. I know Rincon isn’t a closer, but I belive he could be. Just a thought. …Peace

By another brian

May 21, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this

don’t want to be confused with teao’s favorite brian

Braves will have caught a huge break if McCann can even just miss a few weeks, much less a few days. As far as the bullpen, DOB is right, Ray deserves a chance. Boyer’s injury is killing the Braves right now.

Only other closer options are Francisco Cordero in Texas (? for Thomson) or Hansen in Boston with Palpebon emergence (for Thomson and Betemit, or Betemit and Devine). Short term options would be Mesa in Colorado. I would not touch Guardado.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

Hey, to break it up I got a question, Does anyone know where the Braves will be staying when they come to Chicago for the weekend? I am a lifelong fan who thinks it’ll be easier to get an autograph at the Team’s Hotel than at the game. If anyone could help me out I’d appreciate it. Oh yea, How about a trade for Shannon Stewart and/or Juan Rincon. Leadoff hitter and closer. I know Rincon isn’t a closer, but I belive he could be. Just a thought. …Peace

By Adam

May 21, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

Ignore Woogidy. He sounds like a stalker/serial killer/someon to stay away from. Just go to the game and try your chances like every other fan.

Ray, worth a shot. Personally, I think Peranto is worth a shot. But whatever. I’m thinking post-season.

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

Braves stay at Westin off Miracle Mile

THIS JUST IN: Braves bringing up catcher Brayan Pena from Richmond, sending pitcher Travis Smith down to make room.

I’ll know more in few minutes, but am assuming this just precautionary for Braves since McCann will miss at least a few days and they need a second catcher. I don’t think it means McCann is going on DL whatsoever, but we’ll see for sure shortly.

And yes, this should tell you something about how Salty’s doing at Mississippi, since Braves aren’t real big on Pena’s defense and game-calling abilities and yet still brought him up for this duty. Pena was hitting .226 with no homers at Richmond, including .179 vs. right-handers. He stopped switch-hitting first week of season, I’d assume because Braves told him to. Again, will find out shortly, not that it matters a whole lot.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

oops. Twice posted. Back to a closer discussion Look for JS to pick out a reliever who isn’t a closer but could be, like he did last year in a trade for farnsworth. Rincon, Scott Williamson, maybe Jose Mesa. You never really know though….peace

By Miranda

May 21, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

Yea… I knew it was still early over there, but I thought I’d give it a wild try anyway!

Thanks for the update DOB!

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

hey adam, get a life. I at least keep up with the Team enough to know what I am talking about on here

we gave up Capellan for Kolb who is probably a closer in waiting.

What are you talking about? I have the extra innings package, and have seen him. He gets rattled way to easy, I’ll take Reitsma ove capellan.

By anotherbrian

May 21, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

Rincon would be interesting, but didn’t he miss time for substance/steroid abuse. If Minnesota keeps losing they would probably dump Nathan as well which we may get for Thormon, Yunel, and Devine (obviously guessing here)

I am sure JS would love for Pena to hit well and not struggle much defensively. Not just for the Braves, but for trade bait.

JS will do what he can do and will be fine. That is why he is the GM and we are bloggers.

As far as Willis, the above mentioned package of Salty, James, and Elvis or Campbell is WAY, WAY too high. I would love for those four to be untouchable in the Braves organization.

By tyyosh

May 21, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

This may sound nuts, but I predict that Chad Paronto may emerge as a poor man’s Bobby Jenks. The early sample of strikeouts, control (BB/K ratio) and WHIP seems promising. Possibly a size-intimidation factor as well. Maybe even at least some of the tough guy makeup necessary. As many of you know the closer is usually the last line of defense, and MUST be able to work his way out of his own messes (often no one is left to rescue him) with K’s, ground balls, etc., and Paronto may have this capability.

Also, I have not heard much about this in all the closer angst, but it seems like the infield defense is doing more poorly this year. I am guessing this is hurting pitcher confidence/effectiveness more than we know.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

rincon did get suspended, but he claims it wasn’t steroids, it was another substance. Also, don’t be surprised to see the Braves trade some A-level prospects to win now, They do have 7 picks of the first 72 in the June amatuer draft. I personally would not be surprised if Giles is traded to give an infield spot for betimet, That however is my personal opinion.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

tyyosh, you may be on to something….

By Carolina Lady

May 21, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

Ken Ray mentioned in an interview (after the game maybe?) that he would be tickled to take the ball in the 9th. Sure wouldn’t hurt to try, would it? You never know what may come of it! :-)

By Chris

May 21, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this

Woogidy, while Stewart’s BA is higher and his OBP (truer stat to consider when discussing leadoff men) is .355 to Giles’s .330, Giles has scored 25 runs to Stewart’s 19. And where would you put Stewart in our outfield? Would Giles bat 2nd? If so, where does Renteria hit>

By Adam

May 21, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

Woogidy, name one thing I’ve said that would indicate I don’t know what I’m talking about. I’m not the one who mention Capellan.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

DOB, no one to replace McCann? What about that Saltamacchia guy, or whatever.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

Ignore Woogidy. He sounds like a stalker/serial killer/someon to stay away from. Just go to the game and try your chances like every other fan.

I am not just any other fan like you, I watch every inning of every game, I go to 12-15 games a year, and I live in Chicago. I spend between $800 - $1000 a year on this team. I am a true fan. This is why I would love to have a chance to meet some of these guys off of the field. I am sorry if you think I am a stalker. If that is my label for being a true fan I’ll take it. Also, any true fan already knew Salty was struggling this year. The minute Mccann was injured us true fans were looking up who would be the one to replace him. I don’t expect all fans to be as fanatic as I am, but do expect a little bit of respect from fellow Braves Fans such as yourself. I am done with this topic, back to baseball.

By Ron Roberts

May 21, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

Ya trade Thomson for a closer and you’re only going to put the Braves out of the pennant race that much sooner.

I think the Braves would be well out of the race had Thomson been traded in spring training, as it is.

And while I like hte idea of loading up some prospects and trading ‘em off for a starter and a closer, I doubt the Marlins are going to ship off Dontrelle Willis while he’s still relatively inexpensive and young enough to be part of their (latest) rebuilding process. He’s a cornerstone-type guy a team can build around.

By Chop Chop

May 21, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

I’d take Capellan over Reitsma any day. It would keep Bobby from trotting Reitsma out in close games. Since Bobby wouldn’t have the same inexplicable level of trust in Capellan (hell, I’d take Kolb…yeah, I said Kolb…over Reitsma for this reason) as he does in Reitsma, Bobby would have no other choice but to find another pitcher on the team to use in the closer’s spot.

By Chop Chop

May 21, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

By the way, here’s a link to find out how the kids are doing in the minors:

2006 Minor League Statistics

Just look up the various Braves teams:

Richmond (AAA) Mississippi (AA) Myrtle Beach (high A) Rome (low A)

By Jason

May 21, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

Uh oh, ToTo, we’re not playing in Florida anymore.

By Andy

May 21, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

I believe Salty has great potential. He showed us a good bat during ST. But, as everyone has pointed out he is not even hitting his weight at AA this year. If I recall, McCann and Francoeur did not have eye popping batting averages in AA either. I am in no way comparing Salty to MccAnn to Francoeur. I think Salty will pick it up. Bryan Pena simply cannot hit at the major league level. I do not really have a guage at how good defensively Salty is. DOB says he is not half as good defensively as MccAnn behind the plate. I trust his assessment. Thank God McCann is not seriously hurt.

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

Juan Cruz _ Thunder arm, dunder head. Just ended his perfect-game bid with a four-pitch walk to LaRoche, then a single by Francoeur.

For those keeping score at home, LaRoche saved two runs with his diving stop of the one-hopper down the line in fourth inning.

OK, as for McCann:

It’s taking a while for them to get my McCann injury update story posted on website, so I’ll give it to you here, in full:

Phoenix _ The Braves were greatly relieved that catcher Brian McCann’s ankle injury wasn’t as severe as initially feared, but he still expects to miss most of a week and hasn’t ruled out a stint on the disabled list.

McCann was hurt Saturday when Arizona’s Eric Byrnes bowled him over on a play at the plate in the fourth inning of a 13-0 loss, a play McCann and manager Bobby Cox agreed was clean since McCann was blocking the plate.

He was helped off the field, but could walk, albeit gingerly, afterward.

“This morning [the swelling] was worse than last night,” McCann said Sunday, some five hours after he woke to discover he couldn’t initially bear weight on the leg.

After icing, he could walk with an air cast and without crutches. He spent most of Sunday in the visitor’s training room at Chase Field.

“Hopefully I’ll be back and not go on the DL, but I don’t know what’s going to happen,” said McCann, 22, who leads the National League with a .350 average that includes a .415 mark with 15 RBIs in his past 25 games.

“I know I’m going to do everything I can not to go on the DL. Hopefully in six or seven days we can get back in there, maybe. If I can squat, I’m not going to have a problem.”

Manager Bobby Cox said, “We feel pretty confident he’ll be back in five or six days, something like that, and will not have to go on the disabled list. It’s real sore and all, but hopefully he’ll be back soon.”

Brayan Pena was recalled from Class AAA Richmond to back veteran Todd Pratt while McCann is out. Pratt is playing on a sore ankle.

Journeyman pitcher Travis Smith was designated for assignment to open a roster spot. He allowed four runs (two earned) in 4-1/3 innings Saturday in a fill-in start, and Cox hoped to keep him this week for relief help.

“[Smith] looked good last night and we wanted to keep him around,” Cox said, “but we couldn’t go with just one catcher. That’s Russian Roulette.”

In the moments after McCann was hurt Saturday, he and the Braves feared the worst. Byrnes scored from first base on a double by Chad Tracy, lowering his right shoulder as he plowed through McCann.

“It was clean,” McCann said. “I was trying to block the plate. I took it away from him, and he did the right thing.”

McCann was crouched with legs wide apart as he took a strong relay throw from second baseman Pete Orr. He turned to make the tag as Byrnes collided with him, knocking him to the ground and jarring the ball loose.

“When it happened I thought I was done for the year,” said McCann, who heard a pop and thought his knee was blown out. His leg briefly went numb and he fell to his knees after trying to get up and walk.

Two trainers had to help him off the field, down the dugout steps and up the tunnel to the clubhouse. But he soon regained feeling in his leg.

When teammates heard X-rays were negative and McCann only had a sprain, the sense of relief took some of edge off the worst loss of the season.

“Big _ huge,” third baseman Chipper Jones said of the better-than-expected medical report. “You don’t want to lose him.” Jones said there could be no greater personnel loss for the Braves than a serious injury to McCann, who’s having a breakout season worthy of All-Star consideration.

By Miranda

May 21, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB!

Hopefully he won’t have to go on the DL. We’ll soon see though! Get Well Soon to McCann!

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Braves on the road = Night Braves at home = Day

By journalist jimmy smith

May 21, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith wishes bobby cox a happy 65thy birthday today. jimmy smith reads in the ajc that bobby is a ‘softie for homeless mutts”. this may explain his compulsion for reitsma. journalist jimmy smith has left (with the clubhouse attendant) a birthday cigar (finest uga .. cigar from cordele) for bobby cox, also a small box of tissues for the dugout, and a cheese sampler. more from the ajc, “every night he carefully folds pieces of kraft american cheese into a small square - a bite sized treat to enjoy with his dogs.” cheese is everywhere in baseball - most especially in milwaukee. now, national league baseball … giles just bunted the runner over and renteria borught him in. this is far better than the usual golf swing popup or strikeout from giles. reneria is a player. now, “p” players … one more is on the way - pena. soon, we will have more “p” players. now, chopper from andruw … if chipper could make contact it could be “chopper by chipper” - alas, not to be. now, watermelon … journalist jimmy smith tried to check a watermelon on the flight to arizona. why is this not possible? jimmy smith had to carry-on the cordele watermelon - sweet, just right. problem with that was bobby dews - can’t keep bobby dews away from a watermelon. anyway, before long watermelon seeds were all over the aisle and the flight attendant had some words for bobby dews. jimmy smith thinks cheese is easier to eat on a plane than watermelon. this will be journalist’s future plan.

By elbravox

May 21, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

here comes Pena!!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 21, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

carolina lady, journalist jimmy smith hopes you did not see that … no, not the strike out, throw out double play … but the birthday boy going to the nose (actually, into the nose) in the dugout. nasty. jimmy smith has put away his cheese snack. better to listen to the game on radio than watch this. not good for a lady to see. let’s hope this unfortunate action by bobby cox does not bring out that blogger . . . you know of whom jimmy smith speaks. journalist knows he is out there and will come back someday if provoked by bobby cox.

By Woogidy

May 21, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

IIIITTTTSSSSS Reeksma. He can’t lose at least.

By Eric C.

May 21, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

This closer thing is so pathetic…what is up Mr. Cox? Can someone explain why a guy with a 7 era is closing for the Atlanta Braves?

By dsp

May 21, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

macay saved reitsmas a** today, bobby please don’t make us sweat out another reitsma save opportunity; even if macay struggles at first, he has mental make-up to close

By Adam

May 21, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

Woogidy,

You are a fan, okay. You are not a stalker, sorry - My condescending humor got the best of me. But I am a true Braves fan - otherwise I wouldn’t be here. What was Franceour’s average when he came from Double A? He wasn’t lighting it up. Salty’s average may be down, but I remember a guy on fire during spring training that got sent down when he deserved to stay. So he might be p** off that he’s in Double A, who knows. Believe me, I’d rather have McCann over anybody, anyday (he’s a shoe-in for Catcher in the All-Star game being starter or reserve) but I’m not sweating if Salty’s the starting catcher.

If Reitsma’s closing, however, I’m sweating. You saw him today. A controversial called third strike saved Reitsma from walking the first batter and then he gave up a couple of doubles to nearly give the game away. Is McBride our closer now?

No. Cox saw two lefties in the lineup, so he went with a left-handed McBride. “Death” Ray, as some of you guys call him, was warming up in the bullpen. He’ll probably close the next game.

This is how are season will go. A different closer depending on the hot hand/situation. And that will be good enough to win the East.

I’m thinking playoffs.

By Adam

May 21, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

This is how our season will go. Sorry.

By Dave

May 21, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

With Bobby continuing to put Reeksma to close games, I’m willing to wager he’ll come back in another life as a moth and look for the nearest flame. Where is that blood pressure medication?

By gotigers72

May 21, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this

Reitsma just does not have the makeup to be a closer. It’s time to make that change permanent. That pitch that Jackson hit for the double was, guess what, UP in the strike zone. Same problem he had Friday night, being up in the zone. It’s like he can’t make himself keep the ball down!

By Adam

May 21, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

gotigers,

No, he was trying to keep the ball down. He threw a bunch of sinkers that missed. Thats’s why he resorted to throwing the ball down the middle. But we’re passed that. We knew Reitsma wasn’t the answer.

That’s why I atleast resepect Cox as a manager for giving Chris Kolb the opportunity, because what if Danny Reitsma had pitched a 1-2-3 inning? So Cox did what was right.

By Submariner

May 21, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this

My question is….Why does Smoltz go out in the 8th? If the Braves plan on getting anywhere in the post season (that’s assuming they get there!), then Smoltzy can’t grind out those kinds of innings this early in the season. He’ll be in the same place come October. Hurting with shoulder and elbow pain. This year, his arm just might fall off!!!!!!!!

By Adam

May 21, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

Submariner sounds like Mark Bradley. Mark Bradley says that we are overusing Smoltz early in the season. No. We’re not. He’ll be ready in the post-season. He’s one of the few clutch players we have.

If we get Dontrelle, I’ll be impressed.

By Submariner

May 21, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Adam, I hope you’re right. I can’t help thinking how things would have turned out last season had Smoltz been able to go in game 1. I think the chances of getting Willis are good. The Braves do have more trade depth than New York or Philly and I contest that wheather they think they need him or not, blocking the Mets and Phillies from getting him would definatley help out in the months to come. Even if they three way with someone outside the division to get some bull pen help

By john

May 21, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

What in the Hell was Bobby cox doing bringing in Reitsma in this game,when is Bobby gonna wake up and stop bringing in Reitsma.He had Ken Ray warmining up and should have brought him in to get the save.I was really surprised when he brought in McBride,good thing that those batters were left handed because Cox most likely would have stuck with Reitsma.Ray is a better choice of a closer in stead of McBride but either one of them is a better choice than Reitsma.

By Submariner

May 21, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

Reitsma stinks.

By Miles

May 21, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

Adam,

Smoltz threw 137 pitches in his last start, if thats not overuse then I dont know what is. He’s currently projected to throw more pitches and more innings than last year. If he keeps this up then he will be on the DL by September with a swollen shoulder.

By Submariner

May 21, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

Miles, that’s what I’m talkin’ ‘bout!!!

By brian

May 21, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this

Adam-

salty was not tearing it up this spring. He hit a few huge homers then his average dropped considerably - i believe to close to .200.

reitsma needs to go to middle relief now and hopefully figure out why he stinks so bad so he can eventually help the team as a set up man.

just a warning for willis - the marlins will command top dollar/prospects for him. I am talking Salty plus Davies/James plus campbell would be my guess. WAY WAY too much to give up for any player. When Willis becomes a free agent he will demand the money, money that will make Burnett’s 5 year $55 million contract look like chump change!

By Adam

May 21, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

We won’t get Dontrelle. But if we do, I’ll be impressed.

And seriously, enough about Salty. Who cares. He’s a stud, and if he started, I wouldn’t sweat over it.

By forcesaberz

May 21, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Isnt the D Train a free agent real soon? If he is there is no way the Braves would trade away a bunch of talent for Dontrell unless they can get him to sign a reasonable extension.

By Swami

May 21, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

Smoltz will be worn out and on the disabled list come post-season, watching the playoffs on TV along with the rest of his teammates.

Dontrelle Willis will not be an Atlanta Brave. I expect a bidding war to occure between the Yankees & Mets, two teams that desperately need another starter, and can put together a better package than the Braves.

With him being a free agent, I look for Giles to be traded for a reliever, allowing Betemit a shot at second base, and the leadoff position.

By john

May 21, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Today was Bobby C birthday and he turned 65,i wonder if he is geeting dementia and alzheimer’s disease as he seems to forget that Reitsma is no closer and that Reitsma keeps blowing saves.Bobby you better go get checked out at the doctors office because it seems you have it,maybe its time for you to set down and let TP run the club.Think about it you are old and can’r remember.

By Kentavo

May 21, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

I think Bobby knows Reeksma sux or he wouldnn’t have pulled him today. But Cox wanted to at least salvage one game from the series rather than try to build Reeksma confidence. Cox has immeasurable patience, but he does have a breaking point. Remember Kolb? I don’t think Reeksma will be full-time closer anymore. I cannot stand the way Reeksma comes in and spends more time rubbing his head with his cap off than concentrating on throwing strikes. He honestly looks like he does not want to be out there.

By john

May 21, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

lets trade Salty,Larew and Thorman to the Marlins for Dontrelle Willis and Joe Boroski,then we have or starter and closer.Salty is got to be traded to bring us a quality pitcher.

By john

May 21, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

lets trade Salty,Larew and Thorman to the Marlins for Dontrelle Willis and Joe Boroski,then we have our starter and closer.Salty is got to be traded to bring us a quality pitcher.

By David O'Brien

May 21, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

Last update on McCann: Doing much better after game than before, having done five treatment sessions and ice, etc. Said he felt “100 times better” than he had in morning. Looks like DL now almost certainly going to be avoided.

By Submariner

May 21, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Swami-Giles ain’t going anywhere. Betimit has no speed. He can’t lead-off. You’d see LaRoche gone, Chipper move to first and Betimit at Third as a more realistic scenerio.

By John Hoar

May 21, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

You know, it’s hard to worry about anything else when you have to worry if Reitsma is going to come in. But, I am getting a bad feeling about the infield play. It used to be that a ball in the infield was going to be an out somewhere, even if not a double play situation.

 Now, a ball to the infield often leaves the infield and becomes a hit. First off you think it's because Rafael would have made the play and look toward Renteria as the difference, but I don't think so. As I think back it seems a lot of balls get past third, a few errors at third, and a bunch of foul balls between third and the foul line that aren't caught. I'm a big Chipper fan, but are things changing there? Injury, or what? Maybe my imagination, but it feels more like  an observation.

By Jason

May 21, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith…quit acting like an idiot… and STOP talking in the third person, it’s not funny, you are NO journalist, just a loser who has nothing better to do. GET A FREAKIN LIFE.

By John Hoar

May 21, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

Hey, I’m sorry. Every time I post, the second paragraph runs about eight feet off the right hand side of the page. I know it’s irritating to even try to read it. Probably not worth retyping, so from now on it will be just one long paragraph

By Miranda

May 21, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB!

I can rest much better tonight! That sounds much more promiseing which I’m sure it’ll tighten again some during the night as any injury would, but that’s good news!

By Carolina Lady

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

Jason, if someone’s posts bother you, just skip them. Makes life so much easier and pleasant, and doesn’t waste your time. There are certain ones who blog here who would be bothersome to me if I allowed them to be, but I just leave those posts unread. Life is too short. Just a thought for your consideration. Enjoy this beautiful evening! :-)

By Adam

May 22, 2006 12:21 AM | Link to this

We should trade Adam LaRoche for Albert Pujols and convert Franceour to a closer.

By Miles

May 22, 2006 12:47 AM | Link to this

the infield D has been awful the past week. Renteria needs put more effort into his throws and Chipper, well, there’s nothing that can really be done about that. His range is shot after all of these foot and leg injuries. I really noticed it in the game on saturday when a grounder got past him on the 3rd base line which most players at that position would have no problem getting. He’s slowed down a lot over the last few years.

By teoa

May 22, 2006 12:52 AM | Link to this

Okay, could one of you people who thinks Bobby Cox is God please explain to me why continuing to put your worst pitcher into close games in the 9th inning is anything other than incredibly stupid and damaging to the team’s morale? What more can Reitsma possibly do to prove that he DOES NOT have what it takes to close? I thought after Friday’s disaster (and five years of Reitsma sucking prior to that) that even Bobby Cox would know that it’s time to try something different. Obviously I was giving Bobby a little too much credit. I’m still holding out hope that today was the final straw, but Bobby is always the last to know when one of his inexplicable favorites is truly horrible. I have no doubt that Reitsma was on his way to blowing his 5th Save of the year (without the two bail-outs by Remlinger and McBride.) Lets all hope that Bobby’s dillusions about Reitsma ever becoming a closer will finally be put to rest before any more victories are wasted. In my opinion, it should definitely be Kenny Ray’s job to lose at this point, with McBride as a late inning situational guy. However, I’m sure I would find it highly entertaining to have one of the Cox Lovers attempt to explain why Reitsma is still the man for the job.

Also, props to LaRoche for the big defensive play. I’ve been very critical of him in the past, but I don’t have anything personal against the guy and I’d like to see him do well after a tough week. I still think his defense is a bit overrated as a result of his tendency to make the spectacular play then botch the routine one. And I think he has to play gold glove defense to even come close to justifying a weak bat in the lineup at first base, but he did that today. Congratulations.

By gotigers72

May 22, 2006 12:53 AM | Link to this

Please, please don’t trade Eric Campbell. He is a superstar waiting to happen. He will hit .280 w/40 homers, 100 RBIs and lots of doubles, WHEN HE IS READY to play in the big leagues. And the Braves have the luxury of being patient w/him because he plays 3rd base and Chipper is just 34 years old. I think Campbell will play 1 year at each level [low A, high A, AA and AAA] unless he does like Andrew did and just tears it up. Then we’ll be stuck with a dilemma on where to play him. I’ve always thought that if you can play one corner infield position, you should be able to play the other also.

By HEAD COACH

May 22, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this

Happy Birthday Bobby. Nice job by hudson ,eight shut out innings , just what we needed. Rietsma would be on the waiver wire or traded if I were coaching. Did anyone notice what happened during the last out Mcbride recorded ? Gonzo didnt have a chance in hell , that beam of light from the stadium roof was right over the pitchers mound and he couldnt even see the ball released from Mcbrides hand and swung right through all three pitch’s. Giles is somewhere in lala land , his head is all screwed up cause it sure as hell isnt in the game. We didnt have a leadoff hitter or closer in spring training and we still dont , the more it changes the more it stays the same. Renteria doesnt have the range or glove that Furcal has , but I’ll take his bat over Furcals anyday , he won the game today with a clutch double down the line. June 1st is coming up fast and the FAT LADY IS GETTING READY TO SING.

By Ron Roberts

May 22, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

Why is there so much banter about Dontrelle here? Folks, the Braves don’t need a starter nearly as smuch as they need a closer. Period.

We have three quality starters, with viable options for our 4th and 5th spots in the rotation, between the returning Horacio Ramirez, a (resurgent? It was only the Marlins he beat) Jorge Sosa, Chuck James (who did well in his only start, but should be considered), and Davies when he returns from the his hamstring injury.

We don’t have those type of options in the bullpen when it comes to finding a closer. And while he got the job done today, I’m not sold that McBride’s the guy, noting that going into this season, his fastball, while clocked in the 86-94 mph range, also came with a .364 BA against, according to Inside Edge Scouting Services.

The only guys I think could eventually step up to close for us are Devine, (when he’s ready…we rushed him up), Foster (when healthy) and I like this Paronto kid. But heck, I’d take anybody over Reitsma. Geez, give Ken Ray or Pete Moylan a shot at this rate… but Reitsma, wow, what a headcase - a stubborn headcase, at that!

By hoho

May 22, 2006 02:45 AM | Link to this

you can really blow your minds w/stats. on one hand you could say that what you know to be true after 40 games will still be true after 162. on the other hand there is a lot that you still don’t know to be true after 40 games. for instance, you know chipper’s going to hit, he always does. you know andruw’s gonna hit, but strike out 130 times (?). what about renteria? if you’re the braves do you know that he’ll be the ER of Fla and St Louis, or the defensive liability he was in Boston? anyway, there are only 4 teams in the NL with worse records than the braves. basically every team in the NL has played 43 or 44 games. however, the braves still have about 60 games left w/in the division, and still have only played 3 games against the central division (about to change, i know). i think there’s still a good bit we don’t know about this team.

By dylan

May 22, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts havent you learned anything from the Braves over the years YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO MUCH GOOD STARTING PITCHING. Sosa I still dont trust davies doesn look like he is ready to be a top of the line starter Thompson still worries me after his freak injury last year never know when that might pop back up James is yet to prove himself and Horacio hasnt pitched well in so long I have almost forgotten what he looks like. We have question marks all over the place finding a closer is something we need to do but anytime you can add a good young pitcher at a reasonable price you do it.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

did jason have a bad day? why so bitter? bad toes? if jason does not like jimmy smith, jason can skip jimmy smith’s posts. sometimes, jimmy smith will use a multi-syllable word that will make the post unintelligible to jason, anyway. jimmy smith remembers jason - jason has attacked this journalist before. isn’t jason, like, 17 years old? in an attempt to make amends with jason, journalist will send baby seal over to cheer you up. in what correctional facility does jason reside? now, closer … jimmy smith has touted paronto for a time. ron roberts also sees the wisdom of giving paronto a shot at closer. paronto keeps the ball down and has the ability to throw in the 90’s … and he has no neck upon which to hang a loss. good toes and a good sinker.

By P'Cola Michael

May 22, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Jason,

Thanks !!! Been thinking the same thing! !!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

pepsi cola? you, too, do not like jimmy smith? jimmy smith always reads your blogs with interest. pepsi cola? pensacola, perhaps? jimmy smith feels no love on today’s blog.

By dylan

May 22, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this

teoa the reason you put reitsma in on friday is a simple one he had just pitched 2 good outings in a row against the marlins Bobby like the rest of us thought maybe he is coming around friday was the last straw now he will try someone else their it appears that mcbride is first up. The bullpen has been solid maybe one of them will become a closer I would say lets go get a closer but I dont even know of one that is available.

By MGL

May 22, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith - Keep up the good work!! Ignore the self appointed blog police that think only what they post is important.

By Carolina Lady

May 22, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

Variety is the spice of life. A blog can become very boring without it. I enjoy Jimmy’s imagination and wit very much! As I mentioned previously, if I don’t want to read a person’s blogs, I simply skip over them! So simple and easy! Hope everyone is having a beautiful day! :-)

By jon

May 22, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

I understand it’s very difficult to acquire a “top notch” closer at this point during the season. With that being said, I’m extremely disappointed in the lack of urgency we put forth during the offseason. We’ve gotta get some consistency at the end of the game. It doesn’t matter who it is (within the system or a trade), I just can’t bare to watch Reitsma in the 9th ever again. I do think we could use Reitsma in 6th or 7th inning roles. I’m really not in favor of cutting him like most of you are. He just can’t close…plain and simple!!! Chop Chop busted my chops a couple of weeks ago, but I still say give it to McBride

By gotigers72

May 22, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

Do you remember how Bobby used to do Rocker when Rocker got in that funk before we finally sent him to Richmond then released him? Rocker got to the point where he was giving up runs and having lots of baserunners when he was the closer. Finally Bobby saw the light, and would bring Rocker in, but when anybody would get on base, Bobby would yank him and go to someone else. Looks like he might be to that point with Reitsma.

Bring him in [which I disagree with ‘cause he’s not a closer] and give him a chance to work himself out of this funk he’s in, but the first time someone gets on base, yank him. Have someone else warmed and ready. The problem with that is, Reitsma may give up a homer, and if it is just a baserunner, it already puts the reliever behind him in the hole.

By The legend Sammy Kershaw

May 22, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

The legend Sammy Kershaw also sees some entertainment value in the journalist jimmy smiths posts.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this

journalist want to say that journalist is no racist just because journalist write in pigeon-like english and claim to be from uganda. no 21st century sambo imagery is intended. really. and just because journalist speak lovingly of rankin smith, dead former owner of atlanta falcons and heir to an industrial insurance company that was built on exploition of african americans does not mean that journalist is inclined to be insensitive lout. so please, no one look at jimmy smith cross eyed… now noses. bobby is mining for gold in the wrong place.

By john

May 22, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

Ken Ray for Closer

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

jounalist jimmy smith is being imitated - sincere flattery, that - and from ordinary joe. ordinary joe has much with which to deal without troubling himself with jimmy smith. issues. matters of personal integrity. lack of baseball knowledge. now, posting with jimmy smith’s name does not show much originality from ordinary joe. personal attacks on jimmy smith are unwarranted and mean-spirited. and why are ethnic slurs directed toward jimmy smith? where is the love? “and when you hate then you’re bound to get irate, yeah madness is what you demonstrate, and that’s exactly how anger works and operates; man, you gotta have love just to set it straight, take control of your mind and meditate; let your soul gravitate to the love, y’all, y’all; where is the love?” eat some cheese and feel better.

By fartsmeller

May 22, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

Ken Ray for Closer,Bobby C appears to be in love with Reitsma because he keeps using him as closer.I know you are loyal to your guys Bobby but stop loving Reitsma so much that you only use him as closer,Love Ray as the Closer and i think you will see he will do a better job than Reitsma.

By ordinary joe

May 22, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

jimmy, did you know that cheese is high in saturated fat. diets high in saturated fat have been shown to cause early onset dimentia. that probably explains your posts. as far as mean-spirited goes, look at your post to jason.

By ipfreely

May 22, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

Ken Ray for Closer,TP as manager of the Braves.Fire Bobby and Reitsma and bring on TP and Ken Ray,after all Bobby seems to be getting Dementia.TP can do a much better job.He is younger and does not have Dementia.Time for a change.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

journalist mistaken. journalist being parodied. not so flatteringafter all. journalist will work to be better person. journalist justly chastised. journalist will no longer make fun of ugandans.

By metsmanintheatl

May 22, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this

nice game sat ATL…answered our skeptics this weekend…GO METS!!!

By Rey Ordonez

May 22, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Metsmanintheatl…there are flights to NYC at Hartsfield almost every hour. Be sure to take one soon. And stay there.

By mike

May 22, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

As a South Florida resident and Braves fan since 66, here is what I would like to see. Give the Marlins their choice of any two players not on the major league roster (bye Salty)for D. Willis. The Marlins are playing sub .250 ball and would deal if they got prospects plus payroll reduction. Plug Willis into the rotation and Smoltz is the closer again. Willis is affordable for a few years and is a great clubhouse presence and will produce for a winning team.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

hi, joe, thought that was you. you can’t hide on the baseball field, or on the blog - that batted ball will find you. in some ways, you just stand out. journalist did react to being called, idiot, loser, racist, and such -especially from ordinary joe known to have shallow thoughts and limited baseball knowledge. still, your posts are comical, much like jimmy smith’s, only different. wanna buy some “industrial” insurance? jimmy smith knows which chart your rate will come from without having to consult actuary bob. now, closer … in 20 save chances the pen has failed 11 times - and was about to fail again yesterday when mcbride was finally summoned. is there no relief in sight?

By journalist jimmy smith

May 22, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

joe knows jimmy. jimmy is sad. jimmy wants to know about the dichotomy goin’ on inside of me. joe, how do i become a better person?

By fart

May 22, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

The Muts(AKA Mets) Suck,Yankees suck too but they are much better than the Muts.Willie Randolph suxs,Everyone on the Muts staff including omar Minaya suxs.

By metsmanintheatl

May 22, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

like a said…get back to me when you actually win a series against a team .500 or better

By captain america

May 22, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

metsmanintheatl, Your very name is an oxymoron.