Braves

By Chico Escuela

May 23, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

DOB,

How much longer will Bobby Cox continue with the fiasco at leadoff?

Any tradewinds blowing for a legit leadoff hitter?

Is Marcus Giles off the steroids? His strength appears to have left him, & he appears smaller.

By eware

May 23, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, when are you getting your own music blog? I’d love to see you reel off some music rants.

How many more years do you think Smoltz has? When’s his contract up? Do you see him being a coach in the future? He seems to be the guy all the players go to.

By Adam

May 23, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

Great blog, DOB, and I agree completely about the fantastic, old-style ballgame last night. I hadn’t planned on staying up to watch (figuring we’d be behind long before I went ot bed) but I couldn’t tear myself away. Quick question - have you heard anything regarding the Braves potential interest in Dontrelle Willis, or a potential new lead-off hitter?

By Riley Martin

May 23, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

Being the expert on all things. Riley Martin knows the answer to the question but would like to offer a new topic for this group. Should Chris Reitsma be the Braves Closer?

Also Bamy is not an acceptable version of the word Alabama.

By Austin

May 23, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

Reitsma bold sucks

By Lorne

May 23, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

what happened to Joey Devine? I noticed that he is not on the Richmond roster. Is he injured?

By Cincybravefan

May 23, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

I think the presence of Smoltz on the team is worth ten wins when he is not pitching. His intensity is off the charts and it effects the whole team. I believe they will win the division. Go Braaves!

By HEAD COACH

May 23, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

Yep , Cox is in love with Reitsma as a closer and Giles is his leadoff man. If Cox is right(he has been wrong so far) they will both improve and the Bravos will be just fine. If Cox is wrong( and I think he is) this team is done , like well done , stick a fork in them they are meat.So , yea I’m hoping like hell I’m wrong.

By TennesseePaul

May 23, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Great Article DOB. I’ve enjoyed these past few games. I’m exhausted. So much traveling and working in a short period. I was at the Pheonix games and in San Diego. I can’t get enough of the Braves I guess. But I’ve had to work full time the entire trip. I was disgusted with Friday’s game. Saturday’s is almost what I expected… I figured a loss because of Smith, and when I saw the bench warming line up, I knew I was in for a rough night. But Sunday’s game was great to watch. And last night was too. I hope we can keep winning. I’d like to see more hits tonight. But if we post more W’s than L’s I’m happy.

By Chop Chop

May 23, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Fish tacos, eh? DOB, you dirty dog, you!

Anyway, I think you’re right about a reprieve for Reitsma. Bobby Cox is like a rag-doll woman who will keep taking her jerk of a boyfriend back because he does something sweet every once in a while. As long as Reitsma pitches like he did last night every few appearances, Bobby will keep him as the closer.

By Bigbravesfan

May 23, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

Since we are in San Diego has anyone thought of getting Scott Linebrink from the Padres to close, he has pretty good numbers

By True Braves Fan

May 23, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Left over from last Blog…The discussion about Soriano was probably mute…Heard rumors that King George wanted him back on the Yankees; and as you know, what King George wants, King George buys…

By Adam

May 23, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, you are likely correct that neither Giles or Reitsma will come around, but that doesn’t mean we’re dead. A mid-July trade for, say, Joe Nathan and a healthy Shannon Stewart, would solve an awful lot of problems, and could provide the same kind of spark that McGriff’s arrival in ‘03.

By BDinNY

May 23, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

Damn, DOB, why are you always defending Reitsma?!? Kidding. But as much as I love the DeathRay story, we can see why Bobby’s not jumping to pencil him into the closer role just yet. I think Bobby’s just in a tough spot. Of course, we fans sometimes feel that he shows too much loyalty to his players and doesn’t have a quick enough hook. But I haven’t met too many fans that I wouldn’t consider on the more impatient side. But in this case, his hands just seem tied. We need to trade for a closer and that’s not up to Bobby and I’m sure JS has it in the back, front and middle of his mind. Still, would love to get something done.

While I’m wishing… would love for Marcus to take a few notes from his big brother. What a contrast in approaches at the plate inteh 8th. Even though Brian ended up striking out, you could see how much more patient and discriminating he was compared to Marcus’s flailing. Marcus is so much better than this. I feel for him but I’m getting tired of his complete lack of plate discipline, only made more noticeable now that’s he supposed to be working counts and setting the table for the #1 off season acquisition deal of the year. Man, I had a feeling Renteria was going to return to form but who knew he’d be this good?!? I love this guy on our team. Furky who?

Hope we can make it 3 in a row. Will miss the game while I’m checking out Alice in Chains live in NYC!

Finally, who can’t agree with you on Smoltzy and Chipper? I have always loved them both for their clutch performances and their old school grit. I had the pleasure of watching the game on INHD with the SD broadcast crew and enjoyed getting hear them talk about how Chipper is so much weaker from the right side, especially this year, when he took Embree deep. When these two finally hang it up, they will be sorely missed (obv, they’re both HOF contenders)!

Keep up the great blog.

By Jennifer

May 23, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

I am going to the game tonight which basically guarantees that the Braves will lose. Last year, I was in attendance for the game that Dan Kolb blew in the top of the 9th. The year before I attended a game in which the Braves were down by 6 runs before my family and I even got to our seats. This year—Sosa is starting—need I say more? In any event I will be there wearing my Braves hat and cheering. Great game last night—of course, I wasn’t there!

By Sam

May 23, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see Will Startup get a call up. The former Dawgs closer is tearing up AA Mississippi. .75 ERA, 24 IP, 27 Ks, and only 6 BBs and 17 hits good for a .96 WHIP. Boyer came up from AA last year at not a too much later stage in the season and pitched at a level that would be better than anyone in our pen this year. It would be interesting to see what Startup could do. He does have closer experience in college.

By Rutuger

May 23, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this

I HATE this. Every time Reeksma’s job is almost gone, he puts up one save and Bobby and JS’s memories are wiped completely clean.

AWFUL. It just does not make any damn sense—why not try Ken Ray?? JIMINY CHRISTMAS!!!

By Not-A-Blogger

May 23, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this

I’m a big M. Giles fan, but is there another leadoff hitter in the majors that will take that home-run, uppercut slash at a pitch a foot outside, and on the next pitch, take a home-run, uppercut slash at one in the dirt?

ANY casual fan can see he needs to level out his swing, so why doesn’t TP?

By P'Cola Michael

May 23, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

Jennifer….don’t go to game! We need only positive forces with us!

By Marty

May 23, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Last night’s game was perhaps the best example I’ve seen of how overrated strikeouts are as a pitching statistic. Peavy had 16 strikeouts and gave up two runs. Smoltz had five and gave up zero. Both were dominant; Smoltz got the better result. It’s one thing to talk about the importance of being able to strike someone out when the situation warrants; it’s another to talk about strikeouts like they are the most important part of pitching.

But man, was that a great game.

By Andy

May 23, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

Best game I’ve ever been to last night—Peavy was amazing—-our defense was amazing—Giles and Andrew—even Jordan made a great save of a giles throw—old time Braves baseball (pitching and defense)in an amazing park. CR is still the closer BUT Rem and Prato were warming up when he(CR) finished his warm up pitches to start the 9th—-he’s on a very short leash and should stay that way if we don’t get anyone better. Giles defense is getting better and better too bad he’s in such a slump—-WITH Andrew and Chipper(yes saved the game last night) and Langerhans(yes great homer thank god—but has been in a slump) Pratt is not an everyday catcher so it hard to say he’s in a slump—he just hit .225 to .250

But still another season altering/run of 8 of 10 wins creating win for Smotlz. This year he seems to always be on the spot to make a difference and he does. He is the heart of the team in my mind.

By Greg

May 23, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

I doubt a good closer will be available even in July. You’ll need to see if you can pry away a guy like Linebrink or Scot Shields and hope he can do it in the 9th.

As for leadoff, anyone want to take a flyer on Matt Lawton? Personally, I think Giles is pretty banged up and will come around. But Lawton could play LF and make Langerhans trade bait for teams needing a CF

By Marc

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

It’s amazing that every year Andruw Jones goes into a prolonged slump, that drops his average so low, that he can’t get it back to MVP numbers. I don’t get it, he had a great year last year, started off great, and now he is in danger of falling below .260. The guy is the best defensive outfielder in the game, he’ll hit at least 35-50 homeruns a year, he just can’t hit with consistency. It’s hard to tell what causes this. Is it that he can’t duplicate his swing on a consistant basis, like Pujols? Is it a lack of focus? Does his stellar defensive work take away from his hitting? It just seems like, if he could become a consistant hitter the hole year, people would be saying Andruw Jones is the best player in the majors, not Pujols. DOB, what do you think?

That brings me to another point, with all of the focus on McDowell, is Pendelton really a good batting instructor. The Braves strike out at an alarming rate, the team never hits well against an opponents good pitching, and they go into funks where they record 8 hits in three games. If you look at the success of a team like the Yankees, their hitters were all disciplined. I think the team as a hole needs to be more selective at the plate. This team could score a lot more runs with a better approach at the plate.

By David O'Brien

May 23, 2006 06:37 PM | Link to this

If I can remember all the questions, I’ll address _ briefly _ a couple before going downstairs.

Haven’t heard a peep about them pursuing another leadoff hitter. It absolutely won’t be Soriano if they do (too much money, ego and strikeouts, and a hack defensively).

Have heard nothing new on Dontrelle. Tons of teams are interested and scouting his games, but Marlins aren’t going to move him until July if they move him at all, from what I’m told by people close to Marlins.

Devine, I’m tired of addressing. I mean, every other blog we’ve addressed him. He was godawful early on, I mean, Ankiel-like awful. They sent him down and then we learn he had a back injury. He sat out a while and is trying to get his head and pitching mechanics back together. He’s not going to be a factor for a while.

And really, can someone please, please tell me what the obsession is with Devine? Was it the two grand slams he gave up in his first two outings, or the game-ending homer he gave up in Game 4 of the division series (really amazing how LaRoche is constantly beat up for not scoring in that game, but no one complains about, oh yeah, the homer Devine gave up to end it).

Or was it the wild pitches Devine threw in the first week at San Francisco in that game that alarmed everyone, including the pitch that went behind Barry’s back by three feet? I mean, really. Folks, if his name was Joey Smith, would anyone be asking about him? I’m just wondering, because I don’t get the obsession with him, not until I see him do something at the major league level.

OK, sorry about the rant.

BD, let me know how the Alice in Chains show goes. Curious to hear if they’re any good without the late, great Lane Staley.

Oh, and I went for the fresh swordfish sandwich instead of fish tacos for lunch. Tough choice.

By Penn

May 23, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

quote: By Not-A-Blogger

May 23, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this

I’m a big M. Giles fan, but is there another leadoff hitter in the majors that will take that home-run, uppercut slash at a pitch a foot outside, and on the next pitch, take a home-run, uppercut slash at one in the dirt?”

I couldn’t agree more. With that uppercut he has only ONE POINT with which he can make contact. It doesn’t matter if his swing is early or late, if he misses that point he misses the ball. If he swings on a level he has a chance to hit the ball and if he swings early he pulls and if he swings late he hits to right but he hits. Surely a major league hitter or batting coach know those things.

Which brings me to Terry Pendleton. I have never seen anything anyone can credit him with other than spreading Andruw’s stance last year. It looks to me like he could show Giles how silly he looks swinging for the fence every time a ball is thrown his way. It’s past time to run some film.

By tigger101023

May 23, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

It’s one thing to talk about the importance of being able to strike someone out when the situation warrants

You mean, like striking out Piazza and Greene while Giles and Roberts were on base? Yeah baby, yeah! However, Peavy was still dominant. He made ONE mistake - I still can’t believe that ball actually made it out. Striking out 16 guys will still give you an excellent chance to win no matter the circumstances.

By Nelson

May 23, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

David: Do you have any explanation why Bobby Cox is still stuck with Reistma as a closer? He obviously doesn’t have the nerves neither the stuff for the job. About Giles, we all know he is not a lead-off hitter, but looks like we don’t have any other choice, but we can try like a fan suggested yesterday, interchanging him with Renteria and see what happen. Nelson.

By gotigers72

May 23, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this

DOB - That was indeed a great game! A white knuckler that had me digging my fingernails into my arm chair. A definition of what a pitcher’s duel is. A young up and comer vs. The Master.

Thanks for explaining to the Chipper bashers what it is that Chipper does so well. Just helps the Braves win games, that’s all. Somehow, at least once a game, he finds a way to get on base, drive in a run, make a defensive play, etc. that helps the Braves win. Clutch with a capital C. He is still an elite player in the big leagues. An elite player that is loyal to the team that drafted him, and that is indeed rare these days. Andrew is in one of his pull happy slumps, but he plays defense like nobody else. Made a great running catch on a ball hit into the gap with runners on. Made it look like it wasn’t difficult, but it was. He should get 2 RBIs for that. That’s why Bobby keeps him in, even when he’s not hitting.

I know Reitsma did the job last night, but I still think it’s time to try someone else on staff. No trade, just try somebody else. However, I doubt if Bobby’s listening to me.

By Marty

May 23, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this

tigger, that’s exactly the type of situation I’m talking about…along with the strikeout of Roberts to end the 7th. When Maddux was at his best, he wasn’t known as a strikeout pitcher, but when he needed to reach back and strike a guy out, he could do that. Glavine was the same way — he could always nail the inside corner at the knees to a right-hander to strand some baserunners.

Marc, if you want to see some evidence of Terry’s influence, you should watch the way that Braves hitters hit to all fields when they are in a groove. Do you really think that Langerhans would have taken an outside pitch to left field last night otherwise?

Dave, personally, I wouldn’t expect much from Alice in Chains without Staley. Cantrell is great, too, but I think Staley was the heart of that band.

By Nelson

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

Sorry to post another comment, but I read about Andrew slump. In my opinion the big problem with Him is that He doesn’t change his approach to home-plate according with the situation of the game. He always wants to hit a home-run, and we all know that this is impossible, apparently He doesn’t understand it that way, and Terry is unable to fix this big problem year after year. Honestly with that kind of lead off , clean-up hitters and such a closer I don’t know how we still can compete decently, at least (sometimes!).

By Marty

May 23, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

I’m also sorry to post yet again, but I have to respond to the Andruw bashers. The thing that made Andruw so much better last year than in previous seasons, and which continues this year, is that even when he is not hitting very well, he still finds ways to get on base and drive in runs. A run driven in with a ground-out or a sac fly is still a run. And, like the other guy said, and to quote Bobby Cox from several years back about Andruw, “his RBIs are in his glove.”

By journalist jimmy smith

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

a swordfish sandwich would seem difficult to eat. the sword, doesn’t it stick out of the bread? journalist would have liked to see dob eating this particular sandwich. was bobby dews also present? perhaps the sword makes a useful toothpick when done eating. journalist jimmy smith is much fatigued today after so much unusual blog activity by another using jimmy smith’s name. other bloggers will recall that journalist jimmy smith got his break on this blog. it is tiresome to read ugly posts from others ascribed to this journalist. jimmy smith hopes other bloggers recognize posts from the real jimmy smith. now, hartebeest … carolina lady, please do not allow the hartebeest to become too friendly with the deer, if you know what jimmy smith means. It will be wise to turn the garden hose on the hartebeest if he becomes randy. jimmy smith recalls the unfortunate incident with a hartebeest sent to milwaukee a few years back … and the closer that came to atlanta shortly afterward. now, matthew … jimmy smith joins others in wishing the best for matthew and his young family. let all the children be braves fans. now, paronto … is tonight his night? when will his sinker win bobby’s heart? now, leadoff hitter … giles is no longer on pace for 42 doubles this year. hitting to the gap seems a lost art. gap in his swing seems to be a reality. journlalist must go prepare for the game.

By Joe Roman

May 23, 2006 07:33 PM | Link to this

Don’t you people know anything about the symptoms of steroid use? Marcus Giles looks exactly the same as he did the first day any of us saw him in Braves uniform. When people take steroids, their body changes. They get bigger. Why is that so hard to understand? Second question: Why do so many of you know so little about baseball? Few hitters have the same average throughout the season. Most hitters hit and don’t hit in streaks.
I know baseball looks easy on TV. It is not easy. It is very hard. That’s why players get paid a lot. It isn’t because owners and general managers are crazy. That being said, hitting leasdoff has messed up Marcus but in the head, not as far as urine tests are concerned. I’ve been saying for ages that if I were king, I’d bat Langerhans first and put Jilly in the eight hole.

By Nelson

May 23, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

Marty: I agree with you, but I think we are trying to this guy help this team as much as possible. In my opinion, he has the ability to do so. Now he is more patient at home plate, but still I think he is not taking it as serious as he should do. I will give you a tip, if he smiles at home plate , forget it!. He will not hit it.

By Submariner

May 23, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

Leading off is overrated. If you go 1-2-3 in the first inning, does that mean that we have to wait (at most) until the fourth to get the LEAD-OFF guy back up?? The lead-off spot is virtually anyone who starts the inning. Does that mean that everytime AJ or CJ leads off an inning and they don’t get on, we should be crusifying them here also? Giles needs to get back to the basics of see the ball-hit the ball. Every hitter gets into a slump because they overanalyze their at bat. Trying to guess what’s coming and getting fooled is the formula that has plagued everyone who starts slumping. Once a guy starts to press, that’s when it gets worse. Marcus has gotten to the point that he feels like he needs to work the count, see pitches and eventually work his way on, when what he needs to do is go up there, look for a pitch in the hitting zone and put good wood on it. For the most part, the offense hasn’t been the issue. If you give up 16 K’s to the opposing pitcher and wind up winning, I contest that what you need is some pitching help. The Braves have gotten to the point where they need at least a 2 run lead going into the 8th and 9th to compensate for the bull pen’s inability to hold the lead. The bull-pen will be there undoing over the long hall unless they get some help. If the bullpen were more effective, Cox could get Smoltz out of the game sooner and save his arm for October. As it stands now, he’ll be in the same place he was last season-unable to pitch the series opener. In a 5 game set, Smoltz must go first in order to get 2 starts out of him. He has been the best post season pitcher over this great run. The Braves must manage his innings if they are to contend for another world title.

By Woogidy

May 23, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

Well, Here we go. Reitsma = No Good, but also = best option. This game is so mental and I think that is the reason Reits is still closing games for this team. Bobby doesn’t want him to keep losing confidence. Reitsma still isn’t where he should be, but he did get a save last night and took a few steps forward. He would have taken a few steps backward had he not been in there in the 9th last night, just due to the fact that the game is so mental. Bobby has previously said he will look at his team after 60 games and adjust accordingly. This is what happened last year with kolb-mondesi-brian jordan and it will again with reits. I am sure if marcus doesn’t improve an adjustment there will soon be coming, but it is still a little too premature to be yanking people when they don’t perform. Trust him he kinda knows what he’s doing. Peace

By Bob, journalist jg

May 23, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this

Penn,

While some have credited TP with being responsible for Andruw’s wider stance … others, including Andruw, do not.

At the beginning of last season, there were those who thought the change was a mistake, regardless of Andruw’s Spring Training success … and it’s probable that TP strongly encouraged him to stick with it while he became comfortable with what is really just a “modernized version” of the stance he used early in his career.

I would credit TP with encouraging Andruw to “go with the pitch” rather than trying to pull everying … the question is … where is that advice and encouragement now?

Currently, I think that Andruw is almost as predictable as “Vinny Castilla in a slump”.

Regardless, I think both players are worth the price of admission … even if they fail to hit their weight.

By Tomahawkin

May 23, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

Rite, Rite, D.O.B Reeksma still SUCKS, WTF Is up wit Andreuw, I thought he finally got it together last year, now he’s back to his old habits, I think T.P. Needs to get him to start going the other way more, Thats usually what gets him out of it…

As 4 Giles, he’s my boy…but drop him down to second and have Renteria or Langerhans leadoff, and send Pete Orr down to Richmond, he doesn’t belong in the lineup period….

BTW were going against a Starter we have never seen before…U guys know what that means….We are notorious for making rookie pitchers look like Sandy Koufax…

I’m not too high on us scoring more than three especially after that didplay we showed last nite…

By Bob, journalist jg

May 23, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman,

I tend to agree with everything you said except the “It isn’t because owners and general managers are crazy” part.

By Tomahawkin

May 23, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

OT Word of mouf is that Andruw credits a lot of his success from watching Albert Pujols at bats and sort of emulating his stance…I hate the Cardinals but who’d be a better person to emulate…?

By Swami

May 23, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones is an “elite” player? He hasn’t ranked in any of the primary offensive categories in a number of years. For what the Braves are paying him, there’s not much return. He’s a player in decline.

By tyyosh

May 23, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

The term “leadoff” is somewhat misleading IMHO. It is not so much that he bats first in an inning, but that he bats in front of a good situational hitter (ideally) and two in front of a series of productive, run-producing strong hitters. If there is pressure, it comes from knowing that he has to get on base for the lineup to work as designed.

In the NL, he might bat first more often though, since teams often have to position the pitcher as the 3rd out to get out of jams.

By ernesto

May 23, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Swami = mets fan.

By Woogidy

May 23, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

Andruw is 3rd in the NL in RBI. Isn’t that what he’s supposed to do? Granted he’s not going to hit 50 homers, but who cares? He keeps driving in runs. (on pace for 33 HR 150 RBI) Add 20 RBI in his glove he’s good for 170 runs on the plus side. Listen folks, peavey was awesome last night, webb was the other night. Andruw makes his living off the mediocre pitchers in this league. It will all even out. Andruw will be fine.

By Tomahawkin

May 23, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

Dude Chipper is still one of the most feared elite third baseman in the N.L., He!! I dunno why some of you guys are angry with him, we could be stuck with David Bell ya know…?

By tyyosh

May 23, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

DOB, There is just something about Devine, his story, and his demeanor that makes me want him to succeed big-time. I can’t really explain it.

His first game, I wish that Bobby had pulled him after his first inning and then we would not have to talk about his grand slams. He smoked em! He had a big-time tailing fastball that hit 95-97, but he did not seem to be able to hit the targets well. The hitters though - they took some really weak hacks that first inning.

What I do not understand is by the playoff game, he seemed like a different pitcher. The 97mph heat was gone and he almost seemed like just another sidearmed junkballer. I wonder if he was injured then.

By horney gal

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

Get Startup to the bigs ASAP.

Trade Giles for relief pitching and find someone who can take a walk to put in the #1 hole.

Lawton is a no go with the braves dumbsh*t. Think about it.

Also DOB, fish tacos are a pseudonym for v**** so watch what you say before you go bragging about all the v**** you are munching on.

By ssiscribe

May 23, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Sometimes, you don’t play your best and you still win. Sometimes, you do it twice in a row, shake your head and, four months later, you look back and say, “that really got the ballclub going.”

No way in hell you should get eight hits combined in two games, strike out 18 times in one game, against two of the top teams in another division, on the road, and win one, let alone two. Insanity! Or, is it? Funny that everybody is moaning and groaning — and rightly so — over the production (or lack thereof) in the leadoff spot, over the execution (or lack thereof) in the closer’s spot.

But look at the standings. The Braves are just four games out of first, just one out of second. Certainly, I expect the Mets and Phils to run for a while, but mark this down: I will be surprised if the Braves don’t lead this thing come Labor Day.

Who’s in first on Memorial Day is irrelevant. Same with July 4th. The past decade and a half stand as evidence to support that statement.

Giles needs to get hot, and soon. Right now, he stinks up there, but there’s no way you put Renteria in the leadoff spot (he may be the best No. 2 hitter in the bigs). There really isn’t another solution on the entire roster (you can’t bench Giles because he’s too valuable in the field). Langerhans, maybe? The bloggers saying put Francoeur or Chipper up there? Please.

Reitsma got a save last night? Great. Go get a closer. Easier said than done, I know. For now, I still think somebody else should pitch the ninth. It probably is going to evolve into closer by committee until the Braves get somebody, and it’s gonna be early July before that happens at the earliest. For now, hope somebody gets hot and the matchups work well. Push the right buttons, Bobby.

DOB, the Pacific views and swordfish in SD sound nice. Hope the next two out there are as fun to watch as last night’s must’ve been. I admit it; I was asleep last night before the first pitch.

Finally, glad that McCann’s OK. Got a phone call when I was out fishing Saturday night that Mac was hurt, hurt bad. Thought the division streak may have been in serious trouble right then and there. That dude has evolved from Frenchy’s roomie to a cornerstone of the franchise in 12 short months. Amazing stuff, indeed.

Almost as amazing as getting eight hits in 18 innings, and winning twice!

Nite, nite.

By baby seal

May 23, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

baby seal glad that real jimmy smith not barbecue baby seal. sick feeling. now san diego… baby seal love san diego. home of sea world and perfect weather. baby seal has forgotten cold arctic weather and much prefers balmy san diego weather. now dob lunch… baby seal also like swordfish. wish journalist jimmy smith would feed seal swordfish instead of cheese. better for seal cholesterol.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 23, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this

journalist is very sad. feel very guilty about barbecuing and then eating baby seal. feel even worse about abducting new baby seal from beautiful georgia aquarium. journalist promises self this will never happen again. apologies to bernie marcus. now chipper report… poll of braves’ pitching staff reveals that jones is most feared by own pitchers.

By glennbo

May 23, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

maybe we could trade laroche and reitsma for pujols.

By elbravox

May 23, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, carne asada, there are no fresh fish tacos in Cali.

\

By JJMB

May 23, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

All steroids don’t necessarily increase body weight dramatically. Some steroids will increase strength greatly with little weight gain.

By glennbo

May 23, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

there are fish tacos everywhere.

By David O'Brien

May 23, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this

Oh, you are sadly mistaken elbravox. Glennbo is correct.

By the way, LaRoche out of lineup again tonight with stiff neck, and B.J.’s error just led to an unearned run in the third inning. B.J. couldn’t handle a throw that was only slightly off-target from Edgar. E3 on the play. And of course, this year’s Sosa doesn’t wiggle out of jams as last year’s Sosa did. So… 1-0.

By JJMB

May 23, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

O’Brien, if you get the chance, go to the Fish House Vera Cruz in San Marcos. It’s on San Marcos Blvd, on the restaurant row. Awesome seafood at reasonable prices.

By jim from tenn

May 23, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB I notice that Sosa is doing a little better with pratt constantly cheerleading and with an animated approach to recieving. I guess Sosa is a little less developed in the mental game so he really needs a drill sargent figure to keep him focused and confident in his stuff. That is what he will miss most of Mazzone.

By jim from tenn

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

Damn ishkeyota!

By jim from tenn

May 23, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

Sosa hit the bejesus out of that ball.

By glennbo

May 23, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

sosa looks good. let pratt be his designated catcher.

By jim from tenn

May 23, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this

I just think Sosa is someone who can phyche himself out when a call gets missed or he hangs a pitch. Pratt has the experience and the marbles to tell sosa how it is. Even if Sosa can’t understand a word he says the animated catching style is understood by all.

By jim from tenn

May 23, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

Good thing that was only spicoli hitting on that hanger

By jim from tenn

May 23, 2006 11:47 PM | Link to this

give me the righty?

By journalist jimmy smith

May 23, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith just wondering if anyone has a sauce recipe for barbecued baby seal. or maybe barbecued thirdbasemans’s mit.

By Woogidy

May 24, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this

PITCHING AND DEFENSE DOESN’T GET A LOT OF CHATTER ON HERE, IT WILL TONIGHT. INFIELD DEFENSE ATROCIOUS TONIGHT. JORDAN, RENTERIA, CHIPPER ALL HAD MOMENTS. SOSA AND PARONTO DESERVED MUCH BETTER. GOOD TO SEE BIG MAC PINCH HITTING. HOPEFULLY HE’LL BE BACK FULL TIME BY FRIDAY. THAT, FROM WHAT WE’VE SEEN IN THE LAST 4 GAMES, SHOULD GET THIS LINEUP BACK TO NORMAL. HERE COMES THE COMEBACK….

By Miranda

May 24, 2006 12:21 AM | Link to this

seeing McCann made my night! didn’t expect to see him any before Friday so that was great and promising!

could tell he couldn’t really turn well on the ankle to swing, but hopefully in a few more days he’ll be good to go!

By jim from tenn

May 24, 2006 12:24 AM | Link to this

horseshit!

By Wedgie Evans

May 24, 2006 12:34 AM | Link to this

DOB, the reason people keep bringing up Devine’s name is because he was a first-round pick — not only that, but he was supposed to be one of the most “MLB-ready” pitchers in the draft last year. It makes sense that people keep bringing his name up.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

I share the opinion that the Catcher might make more of a difference with Sosa than with the other pitchers … he did seem to respond weell to Pratt … not sure of Eddie Perez’ status but would suspect that someone fluid in Spanish would be ideal.

By HEAD COACH

May 24, 2006 12:54 AM | Link to this

Sosa did all right , the infield defense stunk , another one run loss. With Smoltz ,Hudson , Thomson and Sosa the rotation looks ok , the bullpen is slowly improving , McCann is back , its not all bad. Unfortunately Cox still believes in Reitsma and Giles cant hit his way out of a paper sack. NO LEADOFF , NO CLOSER , these two clowns are killing a really good team.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 24, 2006 01:12 AM | Link to this

i think DOB had the trouser trout.

By Miles

May 24, 2006 01:18 AM | Link to this

The left side of our infield may be the worst defensive tandem in the league. Renteria cant throw the ball straight and Chipper cant throw or catch. Another 2 errors tonight, how many is that now over the last 7 or 8 games? Mets won so we fall to 5 games back…ugh. We really need a win tomorrow and then AT LEAST 2 out of 3 against the pathetic Cubbies. Bad loss but at least the pitching is improving. Now the offense stinks…go figure.

By Marc

May 24, 2006 01:29 AM | Link to this

It’s nic ethat the real braves are back. Good pitching , bad hitting. All the Braves could muster off this bum tonight is a homerun by Sosa, ridiculous. Andruw looks worse than he has in awhile, this team has scored 5 runs in four games. It’s amazing, this team can’t seem to put it together all at once. These guys need to start being more selective at the plate, and they need to put some runs on the board, this was a game they should have won.

By Marc

May 24, 2006 01:39 AM | Link to this

This just in, Braves season saved by pitcher coming off of the DL. Horacio Ramirez looks to be in top form giving up 8 hits and 7 runs in 4 and 1/3 innings in his last rehab start. Wow the Braves are really going to give this guy a starting job, I would rather Reitsma pitch every inning of every game. I don’t understand why anybody even wants Ramirez out there at all. He was crap last year, he was crap before he got injured this year, and he has been crap in his rehab starts. Oh I forgot how the Braves work, the worse you are the more chances they give you. This guy should not get a rotation spot.

By David O'Brien

May 24, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

Marc, don’t short-change them _ it’s not five but a whopping SIX runs in three games. Six runs, 13 hits in three games, and somehow won two of them (not somehow; Hudson and Smoltz).

Terrible tonight. Against a 25-year-old making his second major league appearance, the Braves could do nothing save for Sosa’s homer. He’s got more homers than Giles, by the way.

Chipper and B.J. cost him the game with the two errors.

LaRoche will be back in the lineup tomorrow. McCann also doing well, probably back in lineup for Cubs series.

As for Andruw, I’m at a loss to figure that out. I mean, he’s always streaky, but this is getting ridiculous. One homer and 30 strikeouts in 108 at-bats over 29 games since his four-game, five-homer burst April 16-19.

Remember when we all figured he was on pace for another 45-50 homer season? Uh, I’ll officially adjust my projections at this point. As Maxwell Smart might say, “Would you believe 35?”

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 03:26 AM | Link to this

If the May 23, 2006 04:07 post by “condescending BOB” was directed at me, then I would simply respond that while I may frequently fall short of the mark, I will never lower my behavioral standards which can be summarized as “Any behavior that will make my parents and children proud is acceptable … anything else is unacceptable”.

If that is condescending then that is what I am … however, I try very hard not to consider myself to be better than those who exhibit behavior of which I disapprove as that would violate my standard.

Regarding “pontification”, I generally oppose the dogmatic expression of opinions but think that pontification can be a useful and effective artifice when the actual intent is clearly not to have one’s opinion to be taken as fact.

My only intent is to encourage folks to be genteel and respect one another … regardless of how well or poorly I might express myself or how I may be perceived. I would think that to be a common objective shared by many.

I also think that most of us know when our comments have the potential to be negatively received … and should expect negative responding posts.

Regarding your specific post … to mock, belittle and/or make fun of someone can be an effective way to make a point … I respect that. However, I concluded that if your remarks were well intended and you desired them to be taken seriously, you would have used your regular blog idenity rather than an alias selected for attention and effect.

That said, I respect those who have opinions that are different than my own but will speak out against boorish behavior … I sure don’t want folks to think it support it!

By Bigboi

May 24, 2006 06:40 AM | Link to this

Why is it that when Sosa goes out and pitches a heck of a game and blasts a homer, that he gets no love from this blog? Let him go out and have a bad outing then everyone talks about him. Better yet let James, or Davies have the same outing as Sosa did last night and they are considered the next great thing. HMMMM I wonder why. Personally I think Sosa has finally recovered from his lack of pitching from the WBC and currently has the best STUFF on this staff. Go BRAVES and GO Sosa, keep up the good work.

By HEAD COACH

May 24, 2006 06:42 AM | Link to this

Andruw needs to tighten up his stance , he is spread out to far. He keeps his feet too far apart , he needs a more upright stance. I realize he tries to stay back on the ball and drive it , but he almost falling down when he swings. Giles is getting a steady diet of fastballs and sliders , the advance scouts have done their homework , they know he cant catch up to most fastballs with that oversize bat of his. Some of the so called veterans need to pay attention to Brian McCann when he bats , this kid has been coached and taught the right approach to hitting. The Leadoff hitter and closer are killing this team and yes it is a good solid team ,they just need to address the two obvious problems. Wilson Betemit ? What does this guy need to do in order to get an everyday position ? Its disgraceful , absolutely ugly watching a potential all-star rotting on the bench. Cox is asleep at the wheel.

By uh, chipper

May 24, 2006 08:41 AM | Link to this

“It was just an in-between hop,” Jones said. “I’ve played stickball in parking lots softer than that field. You have to hold your ground right there. Unfortunately, it hit my chest. Anything to my right, I can step on third, anything to my left, I go to second. The ball was right at me.”

By Chico Escuela

May 24, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

Another fine performance by Jorge Sosa, but wasted by the primadonnas in the Braves’ lineup. Everyone wants to point fingers at Jorge for his slow start this season, but they say nothing about Giles, LaRoche, and the collection of other average to mediocre players on this team.

Outside of Edgar, Francouer,McCann, Hudson, & Andruw, the bulk of this roster are players in decline (Chipper) or castoffs from other organizations.

If Giles is a free agent, TRADE him now to get something in return, & let Betemit play out the season at second, & hit leadoff. It cannot be any worse.

By Pepe

May 24, 2006 08:48 AM | Link to this

TO HEAD COACH:

This isn’t Little League!

These are professionals! Adults!

They have a hitting coach, a former MVP !

It doesn’t appear the millionaires are listening to TP. Why should they listen to you ! ? ! ?

By journalist jimmy smith

May 24, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

journalist bob, jimmy smith is not saying hurtful things about you. journalist jimmy smith is a victim of blog identity theft. so that you will know this is jimmy smith … remember the spinning wheel at miss georgia dairy? how about the bireley’s orange drink? yes, this is jimmy smith … but the impostor(s) will soon return. we’ve uncovered glembo for what he is and now we must deal with a certain hare in the ointment. in the meantime, having jordan at first base is proving to be the liability some predicted - and not because of his hitting - with the atrocious footwork and leaky glove. jimmy smith is pulling for adam laroche’s neck to recover. do these braves do anything for fitness? now, sosa … what more can he do? now, uh, chipper … he’s signed for a long time. betemit will grow old on the bench.

By Bernie Carbo

May 24, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

What in God’s name do Matt Diaz & Wilson Betemit have to do to get just a chance to crack Bobby Cox’s impotent lineup ??????

By dylan

May 24, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this

its funny how noone was telling andruw to change his stance last year when he hit 50 homeruns but now that he is struggling using the same stance its time he learn a different stance. I worry about Head coach are you teaching your players that there is only one way to do things one way to hit one way to pitch? Why is it that people want to blame terry pendelton for the hitting woes I realize he is the hiting coach but seriously saying marcus and andruws slump is the fault of TP is like saying the reason Maddux and Glavine are going to the hall of fame is because of Leo Mazzone its just not entirely true there is only so much a coach can do for a player after that its up to the player to assume that TP is just idly sitting and watching this team struggle is a false indictment of the character of a man that noone in Atlanta should ever question.

By Jorge Sosa

May 24, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this

Hey, Bobby Cox. Shake-up the damn lineup !

Pull names out of a hat, instead of boogers from your nose!

By Joe Roman

May 24, 2006 09:10 AM | Link to this

It may be arguable if there is such a thing, but last night’s loss comes very close to being a good loss. This is two straight fine outings for Jorge Sosa. He’s looking as good as he did at his best last year. Too bad Chipper is human.

By Matthew

May 24, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

Sosa was very good tonight, maybe the best I’ve seen from him. That homer was an absolute BOMB, but it’s a shame that the only run the Braves could muster off a 4A pitcher was from Sosa. I mean really, Sosa went deeper in a game than at any time I can remember, only gave up two hits, and NO earned runs. Sosa dropped his ERA from 5.55 to 4.93, still high but he has dropped it a run and a half in his last two starts. Is he back? Maybe if we get him some runs we’ll find out.

Chipper, I’ve defended you a lot lately, but 0-4 with the game-changing error? If you’re hurt, tell Bobby. No one will begrudge you a little rest if it returns you to MVP form. Willy B, start using your 1B mitt, your infielder’s mitt, and maybe even a catcher’s mitt. We need you in the everyday lineup. Betemit’s not a leadoff hitter, but neither is Giles. Put Betemit at 2B and hit him in Langerhans’ spot in the order (either 7th or 8th, imagine the power at the bottom of the order with Betemit in the 7 hole and Laroche or Jordan at 8th). Put Langy at leadoff and trade Giles before he is arbitration-eligible. I like Marcus a lot, and I think he is a great gap hitter and 2B, but he is hitting out of position and his swing is atrocious right now. Give Willy B a shot.

I agree with the assessment of HoRam. He had one great season (In 2003 he went 12-4 with a 4.00 ERA), but like Reitsma, he has been in decline ever since. Perhaps if he really is healed he can bounce back. Otherwise, make our rotation Hudson, Smoltz, Dontrelle (dreaming-really Thomson), James, and Sosa (until Davies returns or we get another starter). Then put Paronto or Kenny Ray at closer and move Reitsma to the 8th inning setup role. he’s best there anyway. If Davies were healthy right now I would put Sosa in the closer’s role, let Reitsma set up for him, and have Paronto, Ray, and Remlinger set for the 7th. Cormier, Villareal, HoRam, and McBride could be good situational relievers.

Any thoughts?

By Joe Roman

May 24, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

Good suggests on the relief side, Matthew.

By Paul Hamilton

May 24, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

I decided to come give Sosa a little pat on the back. I only had time to watch the first 3 innings, but man did Sosa look good. I know he is mr. inconsistent and really struggles back and forth, but his pitches were on target and moving all over the place. If this kid could ever get his stuff under control and add a little consistency he would be a good pitcher. I will say Sosa’s last two outings have been night and day with the rest of his season. I still don’t know what to do with him, but I’m glad he is putting up some solid outings. It’s about time. Nice job Sosa.

By glennbo

May 24, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

DOB, any chance that sliding on that bat still affects andruw physically?

By journalist jimmy smith

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

journalist at wits end dealing with multiple imposters. anybody else want to be journalist for a day?

By glembo

May 24, 2006 10:16 AM | Link to this

DOB, one more question. If Andruw slid on a Louisville Slugger would it alter his affect his hitting more than if he slid on a Big Stick? Ask Andruw for me when you see him. Thanks.

By Jim From Tenn

May 24, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

Bobby could stand to change around at least the front 4 of the order. I think Ryno is showing signs he is fixing to have a good run, at least try him out at leadoff. Think about what that would do for his confidence. Giles will rebound but for now you need to bury him in the 8 hole and forget about him, check him in about a month he’ll be hotter than a firecracker after having all expectations removed from him. Also Gotta get Willy B some AB’s. I know He “Likes his role on the team” and is “a very good pinch hitter” But does Bobby not recognize that He has improved more than ANYONE McCann included in the entire organization over the last 3 years? I’ll ruin the ending for you…Wilson Betemit is not a Shortstop! He has very little range and his body is just too big to be able to handle either short or 2nd base. He could be an excellent Third Baseman or probably a better than average first baseman, but were STILL waiting for Laroche to break out(PartIII), so we’ll never know because it is rapidly approaching the time when other teams can sign him. I mean it looks as if they are protecting him from something! He has added alot of Body Mass and Power. But they could at least have the common courtesy to let the kid hit a few Home runs before he leaves or gets caught or whatever other stupid reason that a 300 hitter with power rides the pine.

By glembo

May 24, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

DOB, did the bat get lodged or did Andruw just roll over it? If it was a Big Stick how was it removed? Ask him for me when you see him.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 24, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

Ed Kranepool borrow Chico’s soap and never give back. Tome Seaver take up two parking spaces.

By Matthew

May 24, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

To the real jimmysmith:

Please don’t stop posting. You are one of the reasons why I come to this blog. You combine knowledge of the game with great humor, and the baby seal is great too! Don’t let the imposters get you down. I know who the real jimmysmith is most of the time, and I’ve only been here a couple of months.

Keep up the good work!

By glembo

May 24, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

DOB, that bat that was removed. I’d like to own it. Can you ask Andruw about it when you see him?

By glembo

May 24, 2006 10:32 AM | Link to this

any old bat will do, actually.

By btoy

May 24, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

Has Sosa proven that he could be an extra bat off the bench?

Also, Andrew might not be hitting homeruns, but look at his RBI numbers. 41, 3rd in NL and 4th in MLB. RBI’s are what really count’s isn’t it? Just imagine if Giles was getting on base more how many he might have.

By Ron Roberts

May 24, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this

Don’t overlook the fact that Sosa’s pitched two good games in a row, folks. Gimme one more after this one and I might be of the opinion that he’s worth keeping in the rotation, behind Smoltz, Hudson and Thomson. How huge would that be, if he’s back to last season’s form?

Were it not for the two boots by Jordan (made ya miss LaRoche’s defense last night, didn’t it, bashers?) and Chipper, we’d be scratching our heads over our three-game winning streak while scoring only,what, 6 runs?

Hell, come to think of it, we should be 4-1 on this road trip. One rancid Reitsma outing and those two Es removed, and we’d be breathing down the necks of the Phillies and Mets.

Anyhow, to accentuate the positive, let’s focus on the fantastic pitching we’ve gotten, at least. And Thomson’s out there tonight, too, so we’re in this one, if he gives us what he’s generally given us this season. A win tonight would make this a ‘decent’ roadtrip, but it could have been a great one.

Oh, and Giles is hiting .272 this month. The leadoff spot isn’t our biggest problem, right now. Figure out the ‘pen.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this

Ron, if Sosa has another good outing, the rotation is indeed sweet. That is something positive to dwell on.

These games we give away are so exasperating. Of course, Monday’s game was a gift as well.

By Todd

May 24, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

The posts about Giles struggling because he’s “going off the juice” are sickening to me. I love DOB’s columns and many of the comments, but it’s so clear to me and to many others on this blog I’m sure that a bunch of you know absolutely nothing about baseball and would prefer it if Cox managed the Braves like a bad fantasy team. Just so you know: Giles is an excellent 2B, Chipper is an excellent 3B, we’re not trading Salty, Smoltz does NOT belong in the closer role, Soriano would be a horrible fit here, and it’s not bloody likely we’re going to trade for Dontrelle. If we solidify our bullpen, we will be solid all around. If any of this bothers you, go root for the Mets.

By Boomer

May 24, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

I feel the need to give my opinion this morning on a few things. First, great game between Smoltz and Peavy…one of the best I’ve seen in some time. As for Reitsma, we can complain about him being the closer all we want but it is what it is. For now, he is the man in the 9th. At the risk of riling up the Chipper fans, he is not the player he once was. I don’t forsee him being that guy ever again. Last night’s effort was brutal. An error on a routine play then with a chance to redeem himself at bat he doesn’t come through. The lack of clutch hitting and clutch defensive play by a guy who supposedly thrives on those situations makes me wonder just how much effect all the injuries have had on his ability to be the star he once was. I hope he proves me wrong. I was stunned when Jordan missed that throw from Renteria. Ugly. Sosa looked good again last night. That was really encouraging to see. Big Red tonight. Hope we get the bats going and the defense tightened up. Go Braves!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

Boomer, you’re absolutely right about, uh, Chipper.

By nathan

May 24, 2006 11:27 AM | Link to this

Todd…..I think people like you are ignorant to assume that “No Brave Could Ever be on the JUICE”.

I’m not saying Giles is, was or needs to be on the Juice. But it sure is curious how much smaller he looks and appears to have nothing more in the tank other than WTP (warning track power - for you kids) at best right now.

Speaking of people looking smaller. Is there any doubt in the world that Klesko was on the Juice at some point in his career? He looks like he lost about 30 - 40 pounds. He’s almost the same size as he was on his rookie card. It’s a damn shame. But I’m all for it. Clean it up.

Has anybody realized that Frenchy is about 5 RBI away from having more HR’s, RBI & a higher BA than Andruw. Tell me you would’ve seen that coming a month ago!

Speak

By David O'Brien

May 24, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

glembo, not asking you to add anything of substance to the blog, but do you at least have anything to say that’s, well, funny? just curious. if not, feel free to continue posting unfunny crap.

By glembo

May 24, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, Do you think when Andruw slid over the bat LaRoche hurt his neck watching him?

By SR

May 24, 2006 12:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, that is unreal, I was just about to ask you if you had heard of Rubio’s and then I see your post! I used to live near the first one of those joints that ever opened, down in Pacific Beach. Damn tasty little suckers,those fish tacos.

Anyway, back to some ball talk. This team is mediocre period. Their record reflects it, their play reflects it and their collective demeanor reflects it. They do what mediocre teams do, that is, they find a different way to lose each time out. They get outpitched, outhit, outhustled and outfielded. Errors cost them games, a shoddy bullpen costs them games, sometimes (though less so lately) starting pitching costs them games. For my money, what you see is what you get with this bunch. Unless and until they make some moves, this team as presently constructed wins eighty something games,no more, maybe less. That’s my take, what’s yours?

By Todd

May 24, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Nathan, I never said, suggested, or implied that no Brave could ever be on steroids, so don’t put words in my mouth. Giles missed a significant amount of spring training and he’s trying to adapt to a new position - he also had an injury that kept him out for several games. His average is 80 points better in May than in April. I’m very inclined to give him every benefit of the doubt, especially since there is absolutely no evidence to the contrary. Based on the logic here, should we assume every hitter who goes through a cold spell or hits a streak is either coming on or off of steroids? It’s simplistic and weak.

By glembo

May 24, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

Maybe Giles’ swing is affected by Andruw sliding over that bat. I think that’s it and I’m sticking with that thought.

By eware

May 24, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’m interested to know what your day is like. For instance, do you meet with the team before the game, like at the hotel or anything? Who do you have access to? J.S.? Do you ever travel with the team in the same vehicle (plane, bus)?

Just curious, really. You have an awesome job.

Saw the Rick Monday “flag grabbing” video for the first time the other day (as I’m fairly young). Pretty moving and touching scene.

Thanks!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

Never fear, little Jimmy Smith, Bob is here. I know when its you. I remember the spinning wheel at Miss Georgia’s dairy. And the orange drink. And the Motel 6. And the handcuffs. Yes, Bob knows Jimmy.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 24, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

“hello, baaaaby! yeah, this is the big bopper speakin’ ha ha ha ha ha! …” - with the bases loaded, if a chopper is hit to chipper and chipper fails to field the chopper, does the run score or does uh, chipper get a muligan? if chipper hits a chopper and the ball is caught by the big bopper then on what day did the music die? this has been a tough post for the real journalist jimmy smith. jimmy smith has tried to work in baseball, music, and most importantly, transition. no seals, no crows, no hartebeest, no cheese. now, toes … journalist jimmy smith is the official source of information pertaining to toes and baseball performance. accept no other. jimmy smith impostors have invaded jimmy smith territory and have even been mean to journalist bob and to others of jimmy smith’s acquaintance. journalist thanks matthew for his kind remarks and journalist liked matthew’s thoughts about the team in the earlier post. now, paronto … he will be a force. just keep the ball down and make them beat it into the ground and become a chopper. you know what we do with uh, choppers …

By Riley Martin

May 24, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

Riley Martin now suspects the Journalist Jimmy Smith is the one who prefers the trouser trout over the fish taco.

By glembo

May 24, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

If the bat was damaged maybe I could have it rather than just throwing it away.

By Matthew

May 24, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

Thanks jimmy. I agree about Paronto-that dude is the real thing.

By nathan

May 24, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

Todd….I appologize for “putting words into your mouth”……and for calling you ignorant!

Giles being injured could have somthing to do with it. As far as the “new position” I’ll assume you mean new spot in the batting order. To me that (batting leadoff) doesn’t have anything to do with it. Giles is a hacker. Always has been, always will be. Though at least he hacks to the opposite field. (you think andruw will learn from his base hit last night, to take the ball the other way……i don’t). Giles may not be the ideal leadoff hitter, but his On Base Percentage was higher than Furcal’s last year….that would be good enough for me. But he is striking out way too much for the leadoff spot (if he had 10 homers to go with them, i’d live with it temporarily, but 1 aint cuttin’ it for me!)

And if he is really that unhealthy or not close enough to 100% to help out, then either he or bobby should take himself out of the line up or put him on the D.L. or send him to Richmond for extended spring training and let betemit play. I’m not sure if betemit is anything more than a AAAA player (great in the minors - mediocre at the majors), but surely betemit completely healthy is a better option than a banged up Giles. And if he’s not hurt enough to go on the DL, for God’s sake at least put him down lower in the order to take some of the pressure off (it worked for Frenchy).

I really don’t think Giles is (or was) on the Juice…..it’s just in this day and age you have to, unfortunately, let the thought cross your mind. But I’m not taking back my “guess” on Klesko….he’s not even close to as big as he was 5 years ago!

I also completely disagree with your thought that smoltz doesn’t belong in the pen. I was excited as anybody when we got Kolb and moved smoltz back into the rotation. He has cleary proved that he is good enough to start (and dominate). I also understand that he (smoltz) feels that starting puts less pressure on his arm than coming out of the pen. He should know his body better than anybody, so i’ll trust his opinion. But throwing 120 or 130 pitches an outing isn’t gonna save his arm over the long hall either. So I say as long as him and Bobby are trying to burn him up, we might as well let him close for a month or two before his arm falls off in August, so we can build up a big enough lead in the East. I believe the way this team is right now, (once the offense gets on track) we are on most nights going to be playing Coors field ball (8-7, 10-8, 11-10 etc….scores). just look at how many 1 run games we have lost already. Now I understand that a few of those games probably have come when smoltz started and kept us in those games, but how far ahead in the division would we be, even with the offensive droughts, if smoltz was closing?

I believe it is much more disheartening to lose a game in the ninth (or eighth) inning with a blown save than to be down 3 runs in the first 1 or 2 innings. At least there is hope for a comeback.

Sorry to ramble on so much….once i start typing i can’t seem to stop.

Again, Todd sorry to insult you.

By glembo

May 24, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this

Not because it touched Andruw’s rump or anything like that. I just like bats, and why throw it away?

By geauxbraves2000

May 24, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

I was watching Chipper last night, someone correct me if I’m wrong, but he seems to just be bored. He appears to have no enthusiasm at all.

By nathan

May 24, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

I forgot to add this to my “book” i wrote in the previous post.

Is there any chance that Sosa can play first base?…….just a thought (and believe it or not…..with only a little bit of sarcasm!

By Sam

May 24, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

Very little question that Klesko was on steroids. No proof, of course, but observation leads one to that conclusion in this case. The new testing policy has coincided exactly with a dramatic loss of power and string of injuries for him. Not liekly with Giles. Hell, he looks just like his brother - shortish and very stocky. Bret Boone on the other hand….

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Geauxbraves2000, Chipper was probably waiting for Sosa to implode. While caught in the throes of lethargy, it was he who imploded, giving the game away. IMHO he’s been coasting since he won the MVP award.

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

do any of the Wilson Betemit fans on this blog actually take the time to check his stats before calling on him to save the Braves???? The guy has 21 K in 80 AB, has an OBP of only .326, and is slugging .488; might want to check the numbers before characterizing him as a “.300 hitter with power riding the pine”. I mean, I LIKE the guy, but there is no one on the everyday 8 that he should be replacing. Oh by the way, as bad as Giles has been going, his OBP? you guessed it, .326, so I don’t see WB as the big improvement some of the bloggers do.

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, I don’t think of Wilson as a savior, but I do think that his numbers might improve with regular playing time. The only position I see him playing, though, is Chipper’s 3rd base, and that aint gonna happen. He did hit .300 last year.

If Chipper goes down, maybe he gets some ABs and turns into trade bait.

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Adam, sure, WB might be better playing more, who knows? That’s just it, you DON’T know, yet some on the blog are ready to sit down guys with track records of REALLY producing for years in order to get him in the lineup. That’s what I don’t get.

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, I think Wilson is better thatn a journeyman, but you are right about there being no place for him. It’s a good problem to have for the Braves. Not so good for Betemit, though.

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

hey, Adam, since we seem to be the only guys on the blog right now, you gotta define “coasting” for me re Chipper. Won the MVP in 99, right? All the guys does in the next four years (before getting hurt two years ago) is hit over .300, average over 30 HR and over 100 RBI, OBP over .400, and never struck out 100 times in a season. Even after getting hurt two years ago, he still hits 30 HR with 96 RBI. Man, how is that coasting?

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, CJ has never come close to hitting 45 homers since then. He also had a lot of protection - Gallaraga, Sheffield, Lopez. He makes the really big bucks now and I think he should be better than he was that season and he’s not.