Braves

By brian

May 24, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing how much the offense falls. It’s contagious. Just like when someone is hot, more would get hot. DOB, I have to disagree with Wilson capable of being an everyday player. After his 3rd or 4th game in a row his game looks flawed. He stumbles on defense, at least at SS. When is Chipper going to get it going on a consistant basis. I’m guessing once one of the Jones boys gets hot so will a couple of other people.

By Adam

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

DOB: Couldn’t agree more, with one addition - get Diaz in as well!! I’d play Betemit @ 2nd (easy transition for him) and put Diaz in LF.

By Phillip

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

This is one of the most anemic offenses in the Majors. They need some people who don’t take the first two months of every year to “figure out their swing”. There are actually players out there who are consistent all year; why can’t we ever have one? I think it’s a lack of hitting instruction in our farm system; I mean look at how many feared hitters have come from the Braves minor leagues…not too many. That’s why our guys swing at every damn thing. We need to use our own pitchers and trade for someone else’s hitters.

By Blake

May 24, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

Why cant we ever have a consistent hitter??? We do…his name is Chipper Jones

By Rob

May 24, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

Phillip,

Chipper, Andruw, Jermaine Dye, and once upon a time Javy Lopez and Ryan Klesko could all be considered “feared hitters”, and all came from the Braves system. What other teams would you say have better track records for developing “feared” hitters?

By Curt

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

But Schuerholz and Cox keep telling me that this is a championship calibre team? I don’t understand.

We have a team with no bullpen, no leadoff hitter, no production from 1st base and left field and again they try and sell us that this is a championship team. We haven’t had a team capable of competing for the World Series in 5 years; and the year the Braves don’t make the playoffs the ownership, whoever it is, will dump salary and give us the Marlins north. Every time Bobby Cox tells me how well Chris Reitsma pitched it reminds me of George Bush telling me how well things are going in Iraq.

By Alex

May 24, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

while we’re talking about farm production, isn’t it a little amazing that, considering all of the power young arms the braves have drafted the past fifteen years, that only one or two made good closers. Really it’s Wholers, then rocker for a year and that’s about it. That to me is more astounding than our lack of farm hitters.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

The difference being that Bobby has put a team in the playoffs every year since ‘91 and Bush is the guy who traded Sammy Sosa. Past performances make me slightly more inclined to believe the former.

By baby seal

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

feared hitters. in addition to those named by rob baby seal hears about names like justice, gant (also feared broadcaster), and some young braves like catcher mccann are ok too. now betemit… baby seal thinks betemit looks like renteria. if played in tandem at second and short might confuse opposing teams. why not use betemit as super sub the way angels use figgins and rangers use derosa. yes THAT derosa. play 5 games a week at different positions.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

I agree about the development of pitchers. Until Boyer/McBride/Davies arrived last year, how long had it been since we had a contributing pitcher come from our own farm system? Seems the promising ones always ended up as trade pieces (Marquis, Wainwright, Meyer…).

By Paul Hamilton

May 24, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Phillip I understand your point, but we do have two guys that have been consistent all season long. Renteria and McCann have been solid all year long both on offense and defense. As for the rest of the team that is another story. I think Thompson and Giles could be very attractive trading pieces as we get into the summer. I love Giles but the Braves payroll will not allow them to keep every one of their players, and I’m sure a lot of teams would be interested because of his career numbers and the fact that he is only struggling in the leadoff spot. Betemit could play 2nd and the Braves might be able to get a good starting pitcher or possibly a closer. Lets face it the Braves have won so many games because of top notch pitching, and I think its time to focus on those issues. Smoltz is at the end of his career, and there are a lot of other question marks facing this pitching staff in the next few years. Our hitting has always been streaky, but it was the pitching that came through to keep us from losing streaks, etc. JS its time for you to work some magic and shake the team up a little bit. If you are totally against getting rid of Giles then we need to trade betemit and let the kid play, maybe we can get a leadoff hitter so that we could move Giles in the batting order. Are there any young quality lead off hitters availabe DOB?

By journalist jimmy smith stirs things up

May 24, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

“his name is uh, chipper jones” … but he reminds this journalist of the famous talking horse, mr. ed. now, “a horse is a horse, of course, of course, and no one can talk to a horse, of course, that is, of course unless the horse, talks like uh, chipper jones. now, why is journalist being mean to chipper jones? cheese. bad cheese. journalist ate a bad taco - green cheese inside. this has made journalist jimmy smith grumpy. made journalist feel real loose, like a long-necked goose. now, wilson betemit … so renteria tells dob that betemit could start so now dob endorses the idea? did not the bloggers say the same thing in the spring and dob discounted betemit’s skills? somebody better tell renteria that bobby makes out the lineup and bobby likes presence on the field. reading dob’s recap of recent performances the braves have much presence and very little production. now, music … how did johnny cash manage a new album? journalist suspects hanky-panky. maybe glembo and friends posing as johnny cash. dead, right?

By Rutuger

May 24, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Look what Milwaukee does with Bill Hall, or the Angels with Chone Figgins—both are very successful in the rover role. We can certainly do this with Betemit, and we should.

I think this is an excellent idea to move him around: one day at third to rest Chipper, next day (and maybe more) at second for Marcus, maybe out to left for Langs, even over to first for LaRoche. I know moving a guy around isn’t the best way to solidify his fielding, but we could use his bat in the lineup, especially as a replacement for the ones that are currently slumping. Plus, we could see where he seems most comfortable in the field.

DOB, did Wilson say anything about throwing in the bullpen during winter ball?

I’m just sayin…

By USMC DAWG

May 24, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

I’ve said this since Betemit filled in for Chipper last year. Yes, he’s good enough to be an everday player, he will consistantly hit in the .270-.290 range. But Cox, with all his eggs in Chipper’s basket, uh glove, will not play him everyday. I’m afraid Betemit will not be in Atlanta in another couple of years. He will catch on somewhere, and be a great everyday player. Perhaps Chipper should be the one looking to move to first. After last nights’ debacle with the bases loaded, it’s obvious Chipper could cost the Braves a game as easily as he can win one with a clutch homer. Face it, Chipper is on the downside of his career. He will miss 20-30 games per season with some type of leg injury from here on out! Put Betemit at third hitting second,drop Giles to hitting 8th, and I don’t know what the hell Cox and Schuerholz were thinking when they signed Pratt!

By glennbo

May 24, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

DOB, you had a lot of excellent points. The Braves work the count like girls from Cell Block H practice abstinence while on work release. You can count on Giles and French Fry to be behind in the count or make an out on the first pitch more often than not.

As for Betemit, would playing 3 or 4 different positions muck up his average. This may be before your time, but I remember a fellow named Jerry Royster who spent the better part of a season bouncing around 2nd, 3rd and short and he hit around .200 for the better part of a season in the mid 70’s.

Sosa did look good last night. I hope he’s ready to give the Braves more of last night’s effort.

Do your best Glembo. Or worst. I have no idea why you started singling me out for hostile posts.

By BDinNY

May 24, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

I agree, DOB. Betemit could/should play everyday. How about his pinch hit double (near homer) on Monday night? The guy is a solid consistent hitter and we really need that in the lineup, especially the top of the order, all game long (rather than pinch hitting in the 8th or 9th inning). If he’s so open to moving around - and he seems like he’s willing to do just about anything to play (isn’t that the attitude you want in the young player?) - find a way to get him in there.

I like the supersub idea for Chipper and Giles and occassionally Renteria. Meanwhile he could take balls at first and, hopefully, get comfortable there. I know you can’t just jump into 1B out of nowhere but if Betemit can play SS and 2B, he can learn the defense at 1B - it’s not that hard (but, granted, takes plenty of practice to play at a MLB level).

I’m not a big hater on AL - I like his D (and it KILLS me to watch BJ muff plays and miss grounders that AL would probably get) - but I wouldn’t mind seeing a more consistent bat at 1st.

I also think Betemit could be great at 2d but I don’t think you can just give up on Giles. I don’t think OF is the answer, only because we have good options there already (excellent in terms of defense).

Every time Betemit pinch hits or subs, I think to myself - damn, we’re lucky to have such a great bench player. I used to think that of Tony Tarasco. But probably he’s TOO good and needs to be out there all the time.

BTW, DOB, Alice is Chains was fantastic, especially in a small (500 people) setting. They played almost everything from Dirt and a bunch from Facelift and the new singer was very strong. Mosh pit, crowdsurfing, tats and piercings - the whole deal. Fun, fun, fun, mid-90s style.

By BDinNY

May 24, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

Oh, and, hell yes we need more plate discipline. Chipper and McCann are the only guys I see out there right now that consistently show patience and selectivity. Everyone else looks like they’re hacking, even AJ sometimes. Is there any chance Andruw has a nagging injury (maybe back) and just isn’t admitting it? That would account for his lack of Xbase hits…

By Jim

May 24, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

Webb looked unhittable with great downward movement on his pitches Sat night and Peavy is one of the top pitchers in baseball. Cruz is inconsistent, but has great stuff and can occaisionally be very good, but the other Thompson is a career minor league pitcher with average stuff. There is no excuse for the offensive display or lack thereof that the Braves put on last night. That was a game we should have won and needed to win.

About the earlier comment that Renteria has given us consistently good offense and defense — I agree with the offense, but his defense has not been good. He does not have a strong arm, does not have great range, and has booted some grounders at very inoportune times. I like Renteria, but I can see some of the reasons he drew the ire of the fans in Boston.

By Nancy

May 24, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

I agree, after Chipper’s error last night and Reitsma’s meltdown on Friday we could be two games back not five. Betemit is a more consistent hitter than Chipper and I know he would have been able to field that ball. The outcome might have been a lot different. The hot players should play, like Diaz & Betemit. Loyalty is one thing but we want to win the Division first.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

Nancy,

Betemit is not a more consistent hitter than Chipper. That statement is incorrect, pure and simple.

By glennbo

May 24, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

Hey, glembo. BDinNY just made a point similar to one I posted on the previous blog. Its time to chime in again. Show us that scathing wit.

By MAC

May 24, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

I’ve tried to convince others of 2 trades to make us better in our two MAIN areas of disaster. 1). Trade Giles & Ramirez to the Marlins for Dan Uggla & Dontrelle Willis. This swap fills gaps for both teams. 2). Trade Giles and Reitsma (and a B+ M.L.?)to the Brewers for Rickie Weeks and Derrick Turnbow. This swap will fill needs for each also. While the Marlin trade doesn’t give us the leadoff man, Uggla may be spun off later to help in that regard.

By Rob

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

Also, Chipper’s Range Factor and Fielding % at 3rd base over the past two years is higher than Betemit. I’d like to see him play more too, but to say he’s better than Chipper is simply not true.

By Jim

May 24, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

MAC,

Why not trade Reitsma to the Red Sox for Papelbon, or LaRoche to the Phillies for Howard.

What gaps would Giles and Ramirez fill for the Marlins? Aren’t they the gaps on the Braves we’re talking about?

By eware

May 24, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

DOB, what’s the likelihood of Betemit getting traded? I’d hate to see him go, but I’m sure some other teams are interested.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

MAC,

I would like either of those trades. However, there is no way the other team would do either of them. Why would the Marlins take on MORE payroll for two players that play the same position as Dontrelle and Uggla, and not as well. It’s a downgrade at pitcher and no better than a wash at 2nd for them. Also, Weeks/Turnbow are both better and cheaper than Giles/Reitsma….there is no way any team would agree to that trade (unless Isaiah Thomas was the GM). And we wouldn’t have to spin Uggla off, he’s batting over .300 as a leadoff man.

By father time

May 24, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

bobby cox: now that you are of age, it’s time to get an AARP subscription and watch the Braves on TBS. (your in-game, situational adjustment skills have failed for over a decade now)

Also, trade giles for a closer. OR atleast try a different swing so not everything you hit is a left center fly ball.

By Josh

May 24, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

although I know that Betemit could play 2nd, I wouldn’t be so quick to trade giles to put betemit there. Lets not forget Giles 45 doubles last year and 291 avg. aint too bad. I do agree that Betemit should play more b/c I think he’s clutch at the plate. So, I like the 1st base idea. just platoon him. Sorry Brian :(

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Jim, I’m with you on Renteria’s defense. He has six errors so far, which isn’t terrible. However, he’s had a number of chances at home this year that should’ve been called errors and weren’t. Renteria wouldn’t have been as disliked in Boston if he had hit well. Because he didn’t hit early last year and started botching balls in the infield, the fans were on him very early.

Chipper is a sieve at third base. He’s still a very good hitter, but the Braves can’t continue to subject themselves to below-average fielding at the hot corner. If he would be willing to play some first on days when Betemit plays third, it would ease some of the fielding problems. I don’t think Bobby has the guts to ask him to do it, but I wish he did. It’s my belief that Chipper’s future as a ballplayer is at first base. He might as well start getting some time in over there.

Andruw looks like he could use a day off. Maybe that would get Diaz in the lineup to see if he hasn’t gone ice cold yet? Langerhans really needs to start hitting. Left field is an offensive position in the bigs. If he’s going to get the majority of the starts there, he has to hit a hell of a lot better than he has so far.

Oh, and the Braves need a new closer, another good starter…and a lot of other stuff.

Other than that, they’re fine.

DOB, if you find any tasty fish tacos, let us know where you got ‘em!

By Triple Play

May 24, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Chippers error at 3rd last night reminded me of the last game of the season years ago when Chipper botched another play to lose home field advantage. His errors come at the worst times.

Cox needs to shake the lineup.

By Miles

May 24, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

MAC, HELL NO to Rickie Weeks!!!! Our infield is already pretty bad defensively. We dont need to add Weeks who by all accounts is quite possibly the worst defensive second baseman of the new century. Yes, even worse than Kent and Soriano.

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

Rob gets it right…just because some blogger wishes WB were a better player than Chipper doesn’t actually change the truth.

DOB, at the risk of sounding like I’m sucking up, I’ve found you to be a pretty astute observer of the game, and if you think that 20 AB for Wilson is a good thing, then maybe I’d have to consider that in a a new light. But my initial reaction is that I worry about who he would taking those 20 at-bats FROM; I just don’t find 20 AB from Wilson better than 20 AB from Chipper, Marcus, and Adam. Yes, the team’s plate discipline has been putrid, but WB doesn’t solve that problem, in my mind.

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop and Triple Play, Chipper is Bobby’s Sacred Cow. His bat is gold. His feet are lead.

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

MAC, here’s a better idea for a trade:

Chipper, Horacio, Reitsma, Moylan and Jordan to the Twins for Johan Santana, Francisco Liriano, Shannon Stewart and Joe Nathan.

This trade fills needs for both teams. The Braves get a crapload of talent and the Twins get “proven winners” who will help them get where they want to go: the bottom of the division.

By baseball is boredom

May 24, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

I tune in at the very end of the game. Pretty much like I do with the Falcons, because it’s absolutely hilarious watching them lose.

By josh

May 24, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

u must be bored if you’re just tunin in to watch a team lose. guess u have nothing else better to do.

By Dissatisfied

May 24, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave,

I couldn’t have said it better myself regarding Wilson Betemit getting a chance to play first base and I agree with Adam about playing Diaz in left regularly. I know Laroche has improved his hitting somewhat since the fielding debacle he had in Atlanta, but I just think that Betemit provides a potent bat from the left and right side. There would be no need to platoon with him in there. And, if Brian Jordan can learn to play first base (a life long outfielder), why not Betemit? Also, I agree about Horacio Ramirez. He was good for us prior to his injury in 2004, but since then, he’s been mediocre at best. And just why is it that he deserves to be activated as long as he’s still struggling in the minors? Why not keep him down there until his performances improve and then call him back up? Why not activate Chuck James instead? I think he could give us more than Ramirez. One last thing, I’d love to see the Braves go after the Twins’ Joe Nathan for closer help. If we gotta give up a couple of good lower level prospects to get him, so be it, but we have to have a guy that’s reliable in closing games out or else the division streak ends this year!

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

Riley Martin, is that really you? Or are you someone who knows of him?

By Handsome John

May 24, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

Trade white trash Chippie and let Betemit play. Does Chippie lead the league in errors? And Diaz,play him and trade Frenchie, I could strike him out.

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

By the way, I think Chipper Jones is a damn good player. He has a reasonable shot to make it to the Hall of Fame if he can play 120-130 games a year for four or five more seasons. That will give him the opportunity to hit 420 homers and get at least 2200-2300 hits. Besides, it’s not as if the Hall of Fame is filled with switch-hitting third basemen.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

May 24, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

Hi I agree, it’s time for betemit to get his turn. He’s good enough to play daily. I think Chipper Jones, though he may be hitting is not the same as he was several years ago. He’s 34 and is not the same defensively. I can’t understand the loyalty to Adam Laroach from Bobby Cox. He’s a streaky hitter at best who’ll probably never hit .280. We lost Gary sheffield, J.D. Drew, Ryan Klesko for various reasons. Tod Pratt, Brian Jordan are experienced and the team needs them. Langerhans has been a disappointment so far this year. We can’t keep players not even hitting 200. Giles is not a leadoff hitter. Horacio Ramierez probably not be like his rooky season. The Braves are like a bunch of wannabes, used to be’s and a couple of good players on a medium city budget. Time-Warner execs sit in Yankee stadium boxes not giving a damn or thought about the Braves.

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

hey, Dissatisfied, if Joe Nathan is only worth “a couple of lower level prospects”, why would he be the answer at closer? sheesh…nobody on the planet I inhabit makes those kind of trades, not even in fantasy league.

By Ron Roberts

May 24, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

Folks, shaking up the lineup over a four-game funk is too panicky for a 162-game season. This team’s only 5 out of first, 1 from 2nd, and has started showing some pitching pinache’ so let the bats work themselves out.

I do like the idea of trying Betemit in a rover-platoon role, though, and if he produces at the plte, great. He’ll help us and showcase himself to any team who might want him in a deal that would strengthen our bullpen. But let’s remember, if we’d not blown so many save opportunities, we’d be at or near first place ourselves, with this offense, four-game funk, and all.

We know Andruw will work out of his funk; we seem to know now that Ryan Langehans is a fairly consistent .280ish type hitter, that Chipper is still fairly reliable for average, that Francoeur’s worked out of his funk, and that Renteria is arguably the steal of the offseason. Heck, even LaRoche is worth having ont he squad on the road, and on defense anywhere.

Fix the bullpen and we can talk about considering the Braves as championship-caliber. Because frankly, if we got Giles’ average production out of him at leadoff, followed by Renteria, Chip, Andruw, McCann and Francoeur, that’s a very formidable lineup, with diverse attributes….hit, hit for average, hit for power;

But fix the bullpen.

By wilson

May 24, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

A couple of things: send pratt down to miss. and bring up Perez. Pratt is an embarrasment at the plate and Perez is hitting above 300 at double a

Betemit at 1st is a great idea, as is the leadoff. I think Marcus would be a great 8th hitter. If he ever starts hitting doubles again the pitcher can bunt him over, or JOrge can send another shot into the seats, that was amazing. Hell maybe Jorge can play first. If the Braves are gonna win the division they are gonna have to win at least 95 games. So they can only lose 44 more. Aww crap. we’re doomed.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts hit the nail on the head. When everything is clicking our offense has proven they can cut it. I know they’ve been cold for 4 games, but that’ll turn around. What won’t turn around without some prodding is the closer situation. Hopefully we’ll get someone sooner rather than later.

By DHD

May 24, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

Our lineup should be:

Betemit, 3b Renteria, ss Chipper, 1b Andruw, cf McCann, c Francoeur, rf Langerhans, lf Giles, 2b

By Savant

May 24, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

It’s been awhile since we had a real savant post here - and here I am, baaack again!! AAARRRRRGGHHH!! How many of you remember me? I once tormented others. Today I am a changed savant. I am reborn. I will sometimes post and taunt others (getting to one pretty good, I see) but mostly I love to impart widom. Here is some wisdom for you: that bat is gone. No way they will find it and no way they will give it to a wierdo. Do you think Andruw sliding over that bat had anything to do with Barbaro breaking his leg?

By Nelson

May 24, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

I agree 100% with chop chop about the move of Chipper to 1st. and Betemit playing 3rd. Braves should done that long time ago, we desperatelly need a 1st baseman who can hit over or around .300

By wilson

May 24, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

Jorge averages a HR every 5.5 ABs. AJ every 19. Looks we should start Jorge in CF

By Steve

May 24, 2006 05:30 PM | Link to this

I’ve been saying for two years that Betemit would be my starting third baseman and Chipper Jones would be my starting first baseman. Chipper plays decent defense but I think Betemit is every bit as good if not better defensively. Chipper seems very fragile at this stage of his career. It seems that last two times he has gone on the DL it has been because of injuries he has received trying to make a play at third. Move him to first, make room for Betemit, and say good-bye to Laroche.

By Greg

May 24, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

Amen on Betemit.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but since Andruw’s HR drougt began, there looks to be a major quirk at the end of his follow through that was not there before the drought started. Almost like hes swinging so hard, hes falling over backwards. Any thoughts on this? and what is TP doing to try and help?

By Rob

May 24, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this

Why do we desperately need a 1st baseman who can .300? Currently there are SEVEN 1b hitting .300:

Prince Fielder, Pujols, Chris Shelton, Paul Konerko, Conor Jackson, Kevin Youkilis, and Berkman.

I’d love to have any of these guys, but other than the Braves there are 22 other teams that don’t have 1b hitting .300.

By BravesLover

May 24, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

Boy, I’m so glad to be a part of a fanbase that can’t see any good in this team. If the Braves suck so bad, people, why don’t you go cheer for the Mets??? Here’s my honest assessment:

Starting pitching has been very good of late with very little offense to back it up. Bullpen is OK but with so much turmoil in the closer position, the rest of the bullpen looks suspect at best.

Marcus Giles: I’m his biggest fan but I’m getting to the point where it might be time to put him lower in the lineup. He’s had enough time to figure out what’s going on with his swing. However, I do think he’ll be FINE and will have respectable numbers by the end of the year. All of you that want him traded need your heads checked.

Edgar Renteria: His defense is suspect but I don’t cringe when the ball is hit to him. Chop Chop says that some of the chances he’s gotten should’ve been called errors. I say that atleast 2 of the errors he’s been charged for have been bogus. Also, DO NOT PUT HIM AT LEADOFF! My cousin is a huge Red Sox fan and he said that they tried him at leadoff last year when Damon was hurt and he was worse than when he batted 2nd. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Is that so hard to understand???

Chipper Jones: Ok, his error last night not withstanding, he’s a solid defensive player. He’s not great but he’s not terrible. His bat is going to win more games than his glove will lose them.

Andruw Jones: He’s becoming pretty darn frustrating to watch. It’s like the Andruw pre-2005. I have faith he’ll break out of it but he looks like Jeff Francoeur up there.

Adam LaRoche: I don’t even want to comment on him because my mom said if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all. Yeah, he can hit (sometimes) and yeah, he’s a great first defensive first baseman but we need offense. Isn’t first supposed to be a big offensive position???

Jeff Francoeur: Uh…well, considering my nickname for him is “Whiff”, you can see where I stand. I think he’s going to be a great player and he’s won us some games with his bat but am I the only one that has noticed that his arm doesn’t have the accuracy that it did last year??? He either overthrows or he’s 5 ft. wide of the bag. He’s become alot more patient than he was at the beginning of the year and I hope he continues to improve.

Brian McCann: Nothing needs to be said here. This guy deserves to be the starting catcher for the NL in the all star game. I’m a BIG FAN since he came up last year but that homerun off Roger Clemens last year in the playoffs sealed the deal for me.

Ryan Langerhans/Matt Diaz: I’m a big fan of Ryan and seeing him struggles sucks, but I think this LF platoon is well suited for these two players. You don’t really want to not have either one in the lineup, Diaz for his offense and Langerhans for his defense.

All I have left to say is (not that I pretend to think that anyone cares what I think)that Wilson Betemit IS NOT BUGS BUNNY! He can’t play every position on the field at the same time. Why is it everytime one of our infielders has a bad game, immediately the next day some genius is saying “Betemit should play first, Betemit should play second, Betemit should play catcher, third, left field, right field, pitcher….maybe he should be our closer”, it’s ridiculous. The only place that I think Betemit should play is first base or third base (with Chipper moving to first). It’s highly unlikely that either will happen this year though. Oh well, that’s my two cents, I don’t expect anyone to agree with me.

By Dissatisfied

May 24, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

Hey ncscoots, I did say ‘good lower level prospects’ didn’t I? I say lower lever, because I doubt the Braves would be interested in giving up guys that close to the majors, i.e., Anthony Lerew, Chuck James, etc. And they do have some really good prospects at the A ball level that they could give up and get a guy like Nathan. Their Rome team is well stocked.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

On Chipper/Betemit: I want to see Betemit play a lot more, and he could EVENTUALLY be a good defensive 3b. But looking at both career stats and those of the pase few years (including last year), Chipper is a much better defensive 3b than Betemit. Last year alone he was higher in both fielding % and range factor. Betemit would not improve our 3b defense at all.

By Dissatisfied

May 24, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this

And one last thing ncscoots, look at Nathan’s save numbers over the last several years and tell me if he isn’t a better option than anybody we have or anybody else that’s expendable by another team.

By Rob

May 24, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

Dissatisfied,

Nobody is arguing Nathan is not good. He’s an elite closer. The problem is there is no way in hell the Twins are giving him up unless it’s for major league ready, potential star prospects.

By Nelson

May 24, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this

I said over or around .300, but definetelly 250-270 is not a decent average for a position that is considered mostly offensive. At least this is my opinion.

By TennesseePaul

May 24, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this

DOB: Good article. Interesting points. The idea of moving Betemit around to get him in the lineup sounds pretty cool. I’d like to see his bat in the line up at least every other day, maybe. Seems like, when he is in the line up for long stretches, he starts slowing down. He was in there for a while at the beginning of the season and his average kept dipping lower and lower.

I don’t get this “Chipper is done” talk. The guy is 34. He has proven to be the best Braves hitter over the past 10 years. He’ll get it turned around. He’s had two injury seasons. That’s it. 2. The rest of the time, he hit 100 RBI’s and about 30 homers. I think he’ll get it turned around.

Andruw, while homerless, is still knocking in guys. I’d like to see more homers, but as long as he knocks them in that’d be good.

Giles needs to be moved. LaRoche was moved, and he lit the place up for a few days. Maybe some time off would help him as well.

I must say, I have been very impressed with Sosa these past few outings. I certainly hope he continues doing this. I will not be pleased if he turns out to be the Reitsma of starting pitchers… a couple of good outings to keep his job then the rest just stink the place up.

Thinking of DOB’s word Kolbian. Maybe Reitsmish could be Over all Koldian with sporadic periods of decent.

It reminds me of this:
Did you know I have five bosses?
Five Bosses?
That’s right Bob. So when I screw up, I have to hear about it from five different people. That’s my only motivation for doing a good job. That, and not losing my job. But you know Bob, that will only make a man work just hard enough to not get fired.

By wilson

May 24, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

72-44? it’s not gonna happen

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

I’m not demanding that Chipper play at first everyday. I just think he should work on taking grounders and throws over there so he can see if he’s comfortable with it. If he could play there ten to twenty games this year, it would give him the opportunity to decide if he could actually do it full-time in the future. Kind of a no-strings approach, I guess. Personally, I don’t think the Braves are sold on Betemit. They probably think of him as more of a Mark DeRosa/Tony Graffanino type than as a full-time bat in the lineup. I’m not actually sold on Betemit. He has 21 strikeouts in 80 ABs so far this year. I know a lot of that has come in a pinch-hitting role, but that strikeout rate is bothersome. He struck out 55 times in 246 ABs last year. Factor that out over 550 ABs and that’s around 120 strikeouts in a season. Not that good.

(As an aside here, why is it that the Braves rarely have any players with good plate discipline make it to the big leagues? McCann has it, of course. I guess it’s part of the organizational philosophy to go after guys with more tools than polish. It’s worked out pretty well over the years, but it sure would be nice to have some guys who would take more walks.)

By Marc

May 24, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

Why is it that Bobby is so against making any changes. It seems like a guy has to absolutely play as bad as possible before Bobby will make a change. I respect loyalty and the players love Bobby because he is so loyal and he protects his players. But at some point you have to draw the line, winning games now is just as important as later. Playing Brian Jordan, (regardless of the fact that he was good, and that he is a great guy), is ridiculous the guy stinks, he has lost it. GIles is not hitting, he should not be trotted out there in the hopes that this will be the game he breaks out of it. For the most part LaRoach has been a joke, Reitsma is a joke, Langerhans has been inconsistent. I’m not saying go get Mariano Rivera, Dontrelle Willis, Miguel Cabrera, and Todd Helton. And I’m not saying that Wilson Betemit, Matt Diaz, and Kenny Ray, or Paronto are going to be superstars if Bobby would just play them. But my God you have to do something, maybe Betemit and Diaz would break out super seasons. We’ll never know unless Bobby is willing to shake it up. But I can tell you that until JS makes some moves, or until Bobby shakes it up, the Braves are going to continue to be an up and down team, near .500, and the Mets have a chance to pull far enough away that by the time JS or Bobby do decide to make a move, it mighnt be to late.

By Jimbo

May 24, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

I am so sick and tired of watching dumb, undisciplined hitters like our offensively challenged midget second baseman. He should be hitting 8th or better yet on the bench. I’ve never seen a bigger collection of so called major leaguers who don’t know how to play fundamental baseball. Betemit and Diaz need to be in the lineup every day. They need to shake things up. Wake up Bobby!

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this

BravesLover,

Renteria is coming back down to Earth. He’s going to commit 22-25 errors this year and he isn’t going to make many acrobatic plays. He’s just an average shortstop at this point in his career. Nothing fancy. He’ll just make most of the plays he’s supposed to and a few that he shouldn’t. However, he can still hit. I think the guy can do it in the leadoff spot. I don’t care how he performed in Boston last year with the bat. He didn’t do anything well with the Sox. Since that isn’t the case this year, give him a shot at leadoff for a while and see how things go. He is the only logical alternative to Giles in the leadoff spot. If he stinks at it, I can always use the fact that he’s finally cooling off to explain away why it didn’t work out. Muwahahahaha.

As for Chipper winning more games with his bat than his glove, that’s probably true. However, his bat didn’t do anything last night and he helped lose a game with his glove. In order for him to get back on my good side, he needs to drive in five or six tonight and hit a couple of homers. I think we’d all be happy with that.

By wilson

May 24, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

the mets just traded for EL Duke

By wilson

May 24, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

the mets just traded for Orlando Hernandez….why can’t we pull any strings

By TD

May 24, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

The braves have a lineup full of overly aggressive hitters who love the first pitch, but rarely hit it. Giles was a terrible choice for the leadoff spot. The whole team strikes out too much, and hits into too many double plays. Last Friday night, Batista threw about 50 pitches the first inning and about 50 over the next five innings. forget about working the count. Giles should be fined everytime he swings at the first pitch. As Sutcliffe said the other night on ESPN, even if the first pitch is a strike, the first strike may not be the best strike.

By Ron Roberts

May 24, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

First of all, if anybody’s movin’ to first base, Chipper Jones has made it clear he doesn’t want to be that guy; he deserves the respect of acknowledging that, so acknowledge that, folks. Throw Wilson over there, if you’re so interested in replacing LaRoche. But I like the idea of Betemit being a roving starter for other folks’ off-days more than anything.

Why?

Because we know what our everyay guys are capable of as everyay guys. We don’t know what an everyday Betemit is capable of. So let him platoon with LaRoche, or Giles, or Renteria, or Chipper or Langerhans when those guys need a day off. it wouldn’t be every day of the week, but it should get him out there 5-6 games out of 10, and then we’d have a better assessment of his offensive abilities on a regular basis.

You remove a LaRoche or Langerhans and you lose any trade value those guys might have, and what if Betemit fails, too? Then you eliminate his trade value, as well… let’s remember we might need tradeable assets at the MLB level come trade deadline time.

By alan

May 24, 2006 06:15 PM | Link to this

Some of you in this blog are amazing and extremely ignorant. The Braves have 4 or 5 bad offensive games and you want make whole sell changes.

Here are a couple of facts for the ignorant people here. Even with the 4 bad games recently, the Braves are 4th in the National League in runs scored and 4th in the National League in team batting average.

With that being said, you arm chair GM’s think you know more than Bobby Cox, which is comical at best. Why in the world would Bobby bench Giles because he’s having a slow start? Giles batting avg. the past three seasons is an average of .306. Odds are he’ll get on fire soon to even out his slow start and he’ll end up around .300 for the 4th year in a row.

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 06:15 PM | Link to this

The Mets have El Dookie. Lord help us all! The division has been clinched!

I guess the Diamondbacks wanted a reliever who could post a 6.00 ERA. Jorge Julio should suffice.

By Marc

May 24, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

Here’s a good question, Why sis we go into the season with no leadoff hitter, no closer, and a crappy hitting 1st baseman. What support in reality was there that Giles, (who has a long swing, strikes out a lot, and never hit well in the lead off spot),all of a sudden would be a good leadoff hitter. What support was there that Reitsma would be able to close. What evidence was there, on a consistent basis that would lead anyone to believe that LaRoach would be a consistent hitter. I really think JS and the organization dropped the ball this offseason. The Braves would have been just fine with Betemit at short. I’m not saying that Renteria wasn’t a great pickup, but come on that is all they got, wan’t enough. Betemit at short, and then with the money they used on Renteria, and the money they saved from Chipper, JS should have overpaid for a closer, and gotten a leadoff hitter. The Braves are getting exactly what they paid for, or rather didn’t pay for. We have a guy batting leadoff, who isn’t a leadoff hitter, and people are upset that he is struggling. We have a guy closing, who isn’t a closer, but come on Bobby’s loyal. Who cares if he has an over 6.00 ERA, we gotta stick with him, because if he blows 15 games he’s bound to get better. We have a 1st baseman that over three and a half years has not hit consistently, just wait until his 7th year in the league then you will see the real LaRoach. It is time for Bobby to make some changes and it is time for JS to stop acting like the team is fine. Changes and moves must be made now not later, we can’t wait until these guys work it out.

By Stan Gnomor

May 24, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

1. Betemit, 1B
2. Renteria, SS
3. C. Jones, 3B
4. A. Jones, CF
5. Francouer, RF
6. McCann, C
7. Diaz, LF
8. Giles, 2B

By William Reed

May 24, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

I am so sick and tired of reading bandwagon Braves fans. I wish some of you would stop being braves fans because your an insult to die hard braves fans across the world…..guy has one bad game and your ready to throw him to the wolves…..wheres your loyalty to your team and players….I read this everyday……funney how no one mentions we should drop sosa right now….guy pictched his heart out….however dont forget the two walks…this last should be on Bobby for keeping Sosa in that long IMO. I could tell he was tired and I’m no where near a good talent guy. But do I bash Bobby no….not in my nature becuase i know Bobby is not perfect and he gets the job done as does most of our team. Oh by the way….not saying it is (its still may..end of june i pass my judgement) but our streak has to end sometime…..dont let yourself be spoiled…

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

hey, Dissatified, I didn’t mean to imply that I’d kick Joe Nathan out of the clubhouse if he were traded for, quite the contrary. But, dude, trades are two-way streets, you gotta give to get, and you give a couple of AA prospects to get a quality major leaguer with an already-excellent track record. Besides, who takes his spot with the Twins? They got to have a closer, too, right? Anyway, sorry if I was a little snippy in that original post, was not my intent. Guess I was just alittle torqued that, just when I though I had refuted the Wilson-everyday-anywhere scenario, along comes DOB to bring it to the forefront again! And agreeing to boot!

By nathan

May 24, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this

“Chipper, Andruw, Jermaine Dye, and once upon a time Javy Lopez and Ryan Klesko could all be considered “feared hitters”, and all came from the Braves system. What other teams would you say have better track records for developing “feared” hitters?”

Rob, Rob, Rob……..

You fogot to mention, David Justice, Ron Gant, Gerald Perry, Dale Murphy & Bob Horner!!!!!

Oh……I get it! You were trying to name guys that came up in the early 90’s. Not players that came up a LONG time a go!

The last 2 guys to get called up from the names you mentioned. Andruw & Dye were called up in 1996…..TEN YEARS AGO.

Get with the now!

By John Adcox

May 24, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this

You know, I’d like to see the Braves acquire Joe Nathan, too. Alas, it sounds a lot like trading LaRoche for Albert Pujols. Much as we’d all love it, it ain’t gonna happen. Alas.

Outside of McBride, I can’t honestly imagine a closer, or even strong reliever, that might be available. Or a bat for left or first. especially first—the platoon in left is at least productive. First is just an ugly, gaping hole.

Does anyone know how Jurries is recovering from his injury? I’d love to see the Braves at least try a Jurries/Thorman platoon at first for a while, or give Diaz a shot. That’s about the only way I can think of to play the hand we’re dealt, assuming Chipper absolutely will not move.

John

Visit my site!

By William Reed

May 24, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

oh yeah can someone have a YTD transcript from last years blog….I wonder how many people wanted whole sale changes after our start last year.

By Chop Chop

May 24, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this

alan, Giles was hitting in the second spot the last three seasons. He has never hit well in the leadoff spot. His statistics so far this year as the leadoff hitter could easily be surpassed by someone who is more comfortable in that role. That is why he should be moved.

Ron Roberts, to me, LaRoche is fine at first base. He’s not great, but he’s decent enough offensively not to kill you over there. Everyone knows Chipper can hit. He doesn’t want to move to first base. We also know that. However, just because he doesn’t want to move over there doesn’t mean that he shouldn’t at some point in his career. It won’t happen this year, but it should happen in the next year or two. I just hope it doesn’t take another injury to get him to re-think things.

As for Langerhans having trade value, I think most teams would view him as a part-time starter, same as the Braves. Guys like that don’t have much trade value. The Braves got Diaz from the Royals for a journeyman minor-leaguer. Diaz can actually hit, but the Braves don’t view him as an everyday player. In fact, there are many guys out there who could put up a .260-.270 avg, 15-20 HRs and 70-80 RBIs in the big leagues as a left fielder. The question is whether a player can do much better than that on his own or if a team feels they can surpass those numbers with a platoon. The same goes for the first base platoon of Jordan and LaRoche. Unfortunately, those two are going to have a hard time giving the team the power numbers generally required from a first baseman.

I personally don’t like platoons because it means you’re requiring more guys to be hitting well on a regular basis in order to not cost the team runs. I doubt that many of us feel that Jordan is going to be good all year. Hell, he’s probably had his one hot streak for the season. LaRoche will get better as the season goes along, but if Jordan becomes dead weight in the platoon, the team will suffer. Maybe the platoons are in place because the Braves are too damn cheap to go out and get full-time players that can be counted on for 140-150 games. I don’t know, but that seems likely.

By nathan

May 24, 2006 06:36 PM | Link to this

Andruw, Giles, Langerhans, Jordan, Pratt & LaRoche should all push hard for a Father/Son day at the Ted. Then all of the dads can help out with the hitting. Since TP doesn’t seem to help anybody with any plate discipline. And everytime Chipper gets in a batting funk he calls his dad. If I’m not mistaken, McCann did the same thing last week.

I can here the advertisement already:

“Come one, come all dad’s to the Atlanta Braves T-Ball hitting clinic. Hit the ball in the outfield & you win a sucker!”

By ncscoots

May 24, 2006 06:36 PM | Link to this

oh, man…first Lima Time, and now El Duque? Hide your eyes, children…this is what happens when GMs grasp at straws. And you don’t think the Mets don’t hear the Braves behind them, even as lackluster as the team has been? They’re still the Mutts.

By darrin

May 24, 2006 06:36 PM | Link to this

it only gets better when chipper goes to texas,laroche hoes to hell and reitsma goes to the moon to find himself

By TennesseePaul

May 24, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this

Where is this report of the trade?

By Nomar Fulnaround

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

So the Mets got El Dookey. GOOD! They traded a crap reliever for a crap starter. Big deal…

Marcus needs a change of scenery, the Braves need a change at the top. Sounds like a match made in baseball heaven. Mr. Surelyhastoseetheholesinthislineup better get to speed dialin’ that Cingular Razr phone…

By nathan

May 24, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

Remember the night the Braves acquired Fred McGriff in 93?

Does anybody from Time Warner have a luxury suite at Turner Field?

You see what I’m gettin at here?

Actually, now that I think of it, if somthing is gonna be torched up. How bout’ lighting a fire under everybody other than McCann’s A$$! Just make sure that when you try to put the fire out, not to use Reitsma, that’ll be just like putting gasoline on a fire. LOL!!!

HA!…..somtimes I even make myself laugh!

By Submariner

May 24, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

Finally, I see some sensible talk about Ramirez. He hasn’t done a whole lot in a long time and as DOB alluded to, it’s time to expect that he won’t. That’s why I’ve been saying in here that they need to go and get a lefty. As for WB, he should get more playing time, but where? First base might be an option. I think he should be at third and move CJ to first.

By forcesaberz

May 24, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

As much as Betimit is not a normal leadoff hitter (with his blazzzzzing speed) I think he could work as a leadoff hitter. He is patient, will work the pitchers (allowing the batter’s behind him to see pitches) and is used to “suddenly” having to face a pitcher (pinch hitting). I’ll vote to try it

By TennesseePaul

May 24, 2006 07:22 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop: It won’t happen this year, but it should happen in the next year or two.

Not that I disagree with your reasoning… But, moving Chipper to first has the potential to block Saltalamacchia. If McCann keeps hitting this way, Salty isn’t going to be behind the plate… at least not for the Braves. I’d like to see that guy fulfill his potential on our team and right now that looks like first base. I hear he can’t really move too fast so Left Field doesn’t sound like a good option. That would leave Chipper at 3B in a year or two.

So, it would seem that a move to first base for Chipper would be for only the near future and not a long term goal, unless we trade Salty. That doesn’t sit easy with me. I’d rather bring Thorman up than move Chipper and trade Salty. Or for that matter, just have Willy B learn the spot.


Maybe by the time Chipper is about ready to retire, Eric Campbel will be ready to take over. I hear he’s supposed to be real good.

By Submariner

May 24, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this

That’s what I’m saying. The CJ move would only be for the short term. Much like his stint in left field. We’d be better off with some better defense on the hot corner, and maybe CJ would have less of a chance of injuring his knee again.

By BravesLover

May 24, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this

Dear Chop Chop,

What do you mean “in order for Chipper to get back on your good side”??? He was never there to begin with. Muwahahaha.

By Adam Worth

May 24, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

Savant, you are a loser. Get a life, a job, and a woman. You don’t have enough wisdom to fill a fortune cookie.

By fan3585

May 24, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

when will the eyes of chipper lovers, whose middle name is fraud open? Betmit is perfect solution even after letting mr face of frenchise go with full pay. cut the LOSS!

By HEAD COACH

May 24, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

DITTO , glad somebody else has noticed this. Just hope Cox pulls his butt out of his head.

By knowitall

May 24, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this

You all seem to forget that even if Chipper doesn’t make that error last night, the Braves were going to lose anyway. Sosa was alreay out of the game so the Braves weren’t going to score again anyway. The bullpen would have blown the game eventually.

By knowitall

May 24, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

By the way, were is the great jimmysmith and carolina lady today? I have a theory on the Braves offense. Is it possible that hartebeast snuck on the Braves charter and ate their bats? The batters are really walking up to the plate empty handed and we are seeing computer generated bats on our tv screens. That would explain all of the swinging and missing.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

10 Paul,

“Five Bosses?”

Since the computer’s been down most of the time since Friday night, I’ve only made a few posts, none today, and haven’t really kept up with the Blog so I’m not exactly sure where you’re coming from or going with this …

It may be that you’re referring to my “behavioral standard”. I really don’t know the right words, but for me there is no negative motivation associated with the standard … I don’t try to adhere to the standard so as to avoid the wrath and disapproval of my family, friends, and associates … I do it because I am positively motivated to do those things that would please them and make them proud … and because it pleases me and, over the long haul, makes me proud.

Like I said, I really don’t know how to explain it with words but I’ve found that if I don’t honestly think that my family would be proud of me for my behavior in a certain situation … I can usually bet the ranch that different behavior would have been best.

I can’t imagine having 5 bosses … but, I was under as many as 8 levels of management on occasion … usually 2-5 … and while it’s a different structure, if someone at a higher level was dissatisfied with my performance … you can bet that I felt it too!

It’s unfortunate if you’re only motivated to perform just well enough to stay employed. I admire you for being able to do that but I can’t readily identify with those who can respond to negative motivation such as you describe.

When I have been placed in situations where I did not have a passion for what I was doing, I always failed to adequately perform … and I either quit, transferred, was fired, or flunked. In one school, I failed to be graduated because of the required courses I had dropped … even though I had more than the required number of credits and a 3.85 GPA … not very smart, but true nonetheless.

I’ve been really lucky to have worked alongside some mighty fine, highly motivated people … and fortunate that, in most cases, I really had a burning passion for the work that I was doing. Other jobs may have paid more … but the friendships and job satisfaction more than made up the difference. I’ve found that when I’m arround positively motivated people it helps to motivate me as well.

Putting me in your situation … it terms of the behavioral standard … My family would be proud of me for performing satisfactorily with nothing but negative motivation as you have … and very surprised! However, I’m sure that they would hope that I would seek employment doing something for which I had a passion … so that my motivation derived its meaning from that passion and the satisfaction of a job well done … rather than the demands of my employer.

Unless you believe in reincarnation … we only go around once … and the clock is ticking … Anybody that uses Tennessee in their blog name has to be good folks and your posts show that you obviously have too much intelligence and passion to be shackled to a job that offers no motivation and fails to arouse your passions in a productive way … Don’t cheat yourself in life! Develop a plan for success and then give it your best shot. If you do, I’ll bet you a bunch that you’ll have a lot of folks in your corner!

If you don’t like my behavioral standard … and don’t already have one of your own … develop your own and do your best to stick to it … one that you may not find too bad is “only do those things that you honestly believe will make you proud of yourself for having done them”.

You may have to struggle a bit at the start to make yourself consider ramifications … I sure did … but, it becomes second nature after a while.

By MrC

May 24, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

I just don’t believe that Willie B. is the answer. He is what he is, a solid backup for 3b, 2b, ss and a pinch hitter. Plain and simple. He doesn’t have the range at any of the 3 positions that the starters do now. He is a drop off in defense at any of those 3 positions. As far as first base, plezzzzzzzzeeeee. You don’t just start playing a position like first base in the MAJOR LEAGUES without ever doing it before. Potential to lose many runs over the course.
At one time Willie was a prototypical short stop. Skinny and solid. Seems to me as he has matured he has gotten bigger and slower. Has more pop in his bat too then he used to. And for those of you who say he should bat leadoff is wrong too. The ideal person to bat leadoff is Edgar.
Bottom line, I like where the team is at this point. Just liek last year. Stay around .500 and then have a big 4-6 weeks and it is over. Got to have a closer!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Joe Roman

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

Wow Dave. That’s pretty strong stuff from a team beat writer. I can sympathize. This team must be pretty boring to watch night after night with so little offense. Still, it’s worth noting that only two teams in all of the major leagues have won more over the last ten games I couldn’t agree more about Betemit. There so many slots where it’s hard to believe he wouldn’t be an improvement.

By TennesseePaul

May 24, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

Wow Bob. That was way deeper than I was aiming. It’s a line from Office Space. If you have yet to see that movie, I recommend it. I think’s pretty funny.

Now that I’m writting this I realize I should have been a little more cautious with my choice of quotes. The “Bob” in the quote is one of the 2 Bob’s who come to INITECH to help downsize the company. They’re “Consultants.”

Anywho, interesting post. Glad to see you’re reading mine.

By Andy

May 24, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

Been a fan of WB—-glad we got renteria—but I think WB is alright—-not as amazing as renteria and all his numbers—-but still. I think Wb will be alright at 1st—can’t be that bad over jordan. Like Jordan but he having to focus on fielding/out postion that type of thing. With the team hitting like this—it seems Diaz and WB have to be insterted—anywhere.

By glembo

May 24, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, did you ask about the bat?

By MBATL

May 24, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

Giles’ OBP is higher than the 1st place Met’s leadoff hitter, Reyes, .326 to .313. And Giles is off to a terrible start… will improve.

I don’t see the Braves benching Giles, or making Betemit a 1B (hey, we could let him pitch every 5th day too… there’s another chance for him to play!).

I think Bobby likes the starting 8 and will win or lose with them. I don’t think he like the bullpen, and I do expect us to upgrade in a couple of months, IF we’re in striking distance then.

DOB, curious about the context of Renteria’s comment on Betemeit; did you (or someone) ASK him, “is Betemit good enough to play every day?”; or did he offer it unsolicited. If the former, what else is he gonna say? (I’m not down on WB, just curious about that statement).

By Bob, journalist jg

May 24, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

10 Paul … Thanks! I’m the one who preaches against conclusion jumping … but, at least you now where I at!

I’ll see the movie!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 24, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

commentary - what is there to say about chad paronto? he has been most effective in his appearances with the atlanta braves. journalist jimmy smith likes paronto and believes he will emerge as the steady hand in the bullpen. today, jimmy smith talked with baby seal about paronto, a baby seal favorite. jimmy smith asked if baby seal regards paronto’s sinker to be his greatest strength. journalist was surprised by baby seal’s answer: chad paronto reminds baby seal of the noble weddell seal - characterized by having next to no neck and a very mottled underbelly. the ‘color’ of the belly varies depending on whether it is wet or not. this journalist immediately googled “weddell seal” to see if baby seal is right. to this journalist’s surprise there was chad paronto! no-neck, mottled belly, and dynamite sinker! baby seal’s research is useful in many ways to this journalist, jimmy smith intends to now make baby seal, cub reporter.

By Woogidy

May 24, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

Another blogger pointed this out the other night, DOB What do you think the chances of Will Startup being promoted to close? Was he in Orlando for spring training? His AA numbers are impressive. Oh yea, about the betemit thing, BE PATIENT Bobby may have a few faults, but everyone gets a fair chance before they are demoted (maybe a bit too fair) After 60 games, lets see where they are. Don’t panic. May 31st last year Mondesi was designated for assignment. This year at the end of May, Who knows what will happen G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG OPS

41 142 17 30 7 1 4 17 12 35 0 1 .211 .271 .359 .630 mondesi

41 128 15 32 5 1 3 14 17 39 0 1 .250 .342 .375 .717 langerhans

Pretty close huh?

By hk

May 24, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

Bob,

… well articulated … I used to love to please my gentle dad … I had no need to see his reaction or hear anything from him about it, it was enough to know in my heart that it was so …

… haven’t posted in awhile either, guess it’s time for hitter’s ‘MVP’ (although our hitters haven’t been very valuable lately, team BA has dropped from .277 (tops in the league for about an hour) down to .266 (5th), all in a period of 5 games … anyway … predicted

End of Year R + HR + RBI = ‘MVP’

Andruw ……108..35..154..297

Frenchy…….89..39..139..266

Chipper……100..12…93..204

LaRoche…….77..23…93..193

McCann……..73..19…77..170

Edgar……..100…8…58..166

curves

here

By Riley Martin

May 24, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

I see that I have a fan here in the stratosphere that is this given blog. It is very simply put Betemit should be playing some assorted infield positions and things of this nature, but who exactly is going to eliminate the horidness and putrid thing that is 3 Run Reitsma.

By Daddy Rieitsma

May 24, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

To all you braves fans i send this blog comment to you from Canada,yes i know my son stinks as the Braves closer but he is a good guy,so please stop saying all those bad things about him,give him a chance to prove himself,he is gonna get better,Smolts is working with him.he is working on his pitches.wait and see you will see that he will be a great closer.leave my boy along and let him do his job.Thanks Bobby for having confidence in my boy.

By Woogidy

May 24, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

damn daddy you should learn how to spell your own name…You reitsma’s must suck at everything! :-)

By bw

May 24, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

woogidy comparing Langerhans to Mondesi is lunacy. Absolutely no idea what sort of point you are trying to make by this. please explain.

By Woogidy

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

make your own point bbw

By David O'Brien

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

Amazing what a couple of long balls can do for the soul (and the starting pitcher). Edgar and Andruw go deep in the first inning. Maybe Thomson can hold this lead.

It’s funny, I’d just talked to Andruw about his homer drought not 2 hours ago, for a note in tomorrow paper. He was completely unconcerned about the drought, and only concerned about the team playing poorly. Good for him. He knows what he’s going to do and isn’t worried about streaks and slumps, because that’s the kind of hitter he is.

As he asked me, “How many homers did I hit last April?” (he hit three). Then he said, “How many do I have now?” (he has 10 after that first-inning homer tonight, which snapped a drought of 71 homerless at-bats for him).

By Todd

May 24, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

It’s been a pretty rough few games for sure, but we were up against Webb and Peavy at the top of their games - surely you recognize that, DOB… Like a few others above, I like the idea of Betemit as a super sub if he’s able to do it. As far as using him as leadoff - whatever works at this point. Like a few others above, I think with a little tweaking in the lineup and a solid closer we’ll be fine.

Speaking of closers, has anyone mentioned Mike Gonzalez? Probably as realistic an option as we can expect via trade; with the Pirates in constant rebuilding mode, we might be able to to trade young arms and an OF for him.

Nathan - no worries from your last post, I get my guard up on this blog a little too much sometimes. Still disagree with you on Smoltz, but I bet you’re right on Klesko. Of course we know now that Sheff was juiced at some point too - probably should have guessed earlier from his charming personality, huh?

By David O'Brien

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

Oh, and FYI: Smoltz is going to get an extra day of rest and pitch Sunday. Insists he’s fine, but that he could use the extra day. He’s thrown 251 pitches in past two starts.

Horacio Ramirez will come off DL and start Saturday UNLESS McCann’s ankle isn’t ready (he tweaked it a bit pinch-hitting Tuesday, but Braves still think he’ll be ready for Cubs series).

If McCann isn’t ready to play, they can’t move Pena back to Richmond to open spot for Ramirez, and Bobby said Sosa would start on three days’ rest Saturday if that’s the case.

By bw

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

I would say this years Langerhans is the complete opposite of last years mondesi

By Daddy Reitsma

May 24, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

woogidy,i hit the wrong key,my name is spelled Reitsma.daddy Reitsma.i should have checked it before i sent it.sorry

By Veronica

May 24, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this

I disagree about Ramirez, he has really good stuff, he has just had a string of bad luck. I love how no one mentions how well his rehabs were in Rome and Richmond yet his last one was bad game and he is no good. I guess thats baseball no one remembers the good stuff only the bad. Just like how Sosa had been pitching terrible and everyone wanted him out, yet he has had two desent games and now he is everyones hero. Go figure.

By Woogidy

May 24, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

that sucks, I just got my tix to see smoltz on saturday at wrigley. Guess I’ll go to all three games.

By Daddy Reitsma

May 24, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

Can I join you?

By bw

May 24, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Slumps Over

By Daddy Reitsma

May 24, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this

To woogidy,my son Chris and i do not sux,we are both good at what we do,Chris is a good closer wait and see.hope he gets a chance tonight to prove himself,i been talking with him.

By Jennifer

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

Are u really his daddy???

By Easter Bunny

May 24, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

Yes. He’s really his father.

By Boomer

May 24, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

What’s happening here? We get the offense going and the defense has been good [well, not counting Giles’ throw]. I guess Thomson can’t stand prosperity. Surely we won’t blow this lead.

By Dave Klemmer

May 24, 2006 11:54 PM | Link to this

Trade Giles for a closer. Start Betemit at second and have Renteria lead off. Get Diaz more at bats. Sounds easy to me.

By Boomer

May 25, 2006 12:11 AM | Link to this

Great to see Chipper get 4 hits tonight. Sutton just made the comment that maybe Chipper was auditioning for the lead-off spot. Chipper also has 2 steals.

By Boomer

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

Let me make sure I say that Sutton made that comment jokingly!

By knowitall

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

See, I told you so. Once knowitall uncovers plot by hartebeast to eat bats, Braves start to hit again. Hartebeast returned bats for fear of getting caught. Maybe knowitall should become journalist too. Wonder if I can enter mentoring program with baby seal.

By Ron Roberts

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

Geez…

If you’re a real Braves fan and kept up with this squad over the course of the 14-year title run then you’ll know we don’t make moves with wholesale changes in the lineup. All this “trade so-and-so, move this guy here, let this guy play more, etc.” stuff is a waste of your keyboard time and space on this blog.

We might aquire the occasional everyday guy in midseason (McGriff in ‘93 being the most notable example), but when have we ever made wholesale changes in mid-season in this run, folks? Last season only comes to mind because of farm-raised can’t miss talents like McCann and Francoeur, along with Langy and Kelly Johnson. But sheesh, who really believed Mondesi and Jordan were the answers at the outfield corners, anyhow?

By tyyosh

May 25, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

The closest thing I recall to wholesale changes was a time in the late 90’s when the bullpen was not getting it done and they brought up Chad Fox, Mike Cather, and Kevin Millwood from Richmond. It actually worked, as Cather and Fox stabilized the bullpen. I was at Millwood’s first start that year, against the Dodgers I believe. Now for the life of me, I cannot remember who they replaced.

By Bob, journalist jg

May 25, 2006 02:13 AM | Link to this

Esteemed Ugandan Journalist,

I didn’t see much of the game but it looks like keeping up with the Joneses was kinda tough tonight!

This is to let you know that the imitation problem is not new … there have long been those who would be a thorne in the side of the noted humorist smith.

I preferred NuGrape … grape was better than orange … even the Old Reliable JS, though he’s only 38, agreed. I used to get off the tracks behind Sears, walking back from Cracker games, and stop by the NuGrape Bottling Company and get them … ice cold for free.

Jimmy, do you still think that of all the cosmos stars, Leo shines brightest? Leo is in Baltimore … Roland is young and better.

Those imposters who think of you as an innocent hartebeest procurer would do well to keep in mind that Ugandan journalists often keep Mole Vipers as pets to help control vermin and uncooperative interviewees.

You have to really appreciate Matthew’s refreshing sincerity and directness of approach! I’m sure his comments regarding your posts reflect the feelings of most … and hopefully your subsequent posts quieted his fears … he has enough to worry about … Matthew knows that you gave The Lady good advice on crows so I’ll bet he’s looking to you for advice on how to arrange a trade if the kid turns out to be a Mets fan.

I thought Sosa looked as good I’ve seen him since he joined the Braves … it looked to me like Jorge asked Freddy Gonzalez tonight what it would take to get Andruw and Chipper to hit like that the next time he pitches.

By EdoRiver

May 25, 2006 05:15 AM | Link to this

I have agreed with some of your comments since the Braves lost in ‘96. Regarding the current personalities, like Andruw, who don’t listen to anyone but their agents… nothing more can be said. I appreciate your comments. Again I repeat I agree vehemently with EVERY THING.

By old timer

May 25, 2006 07:05 AM | Link to this

William Reed, re “your” versus “you’re”: Proper usage: The Braves are your favorite team. Improper usage: Your a big Braves fan. Proper usage: You’re a big Braves fan.

By old timer

May 25, 2006 07:14 AM | Link to this

In the spring I wanted Juan Pierre to hit leadoff and Joey Gathright as a fallback. Between them, they’re hitting about .210. So I’m not the answer. Just really shows what a find Otis Nixon was in ‘91. But we gotta get Giles out of that spot. So it’s WB or Langerhans/Diaz, I guess, or a trade for somebody I don’t recommend.

Anybody interested in trading for Greg Maddux now that he has struggled and should be available for a midrange prospect? We still need another starter, and he could even be a closer option. He’s owed about 5 million for the remainder of his contract.

By Adam Worth

May 25, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

Maddux is 0-4 with an ERA around 7.00 in his last handful of starts.. He’s never closed. He is 40. Lets make a deal.

By Joe Roman

May 25, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this

Those still whining about Leo’s departure might want to take a look at a feature in yesterday’s Baltimore Sun. All of Baltimore’s starters are doing worse than last year including Bruce Chen and Chris Benson. Leo’s quotes mostly blame the players. Not good. Welcome to the page, woogity. We of the BE PATIENT faction need your support. The rest of you need to sit at the feet of the sage St. Andruw and drink in His wisdom. It isn’t just the quotes he gave DOB before the game. Did you see that dugout last night!? Andruw is the leader of this team now. It couldn’t be in better hands.

By Daddy Reitsma

May 25, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

To Jennifer,yes I am chris Reitsma father,my boy pitched good last night,i told everyone he would do it,you gonna see a better closer,he is gonna get better,give him a chance.Chris got to have more confidence.Roger is working with him and so is John Smoltz.

By Easter Chicken

May 25, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this

DaddyReitsma, what do Chris and I have in common?

By MikeD

May 25, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

I think Diaz has proven that he can be an everyday player. Langerface isn’t really cutting it.

By Matthew

May 25, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

Bob, journalist j.g.:

I was about to recommend to jimmysmith a promotion for you, and drop the j.g. from your title, but your comment about the possibility of my child being a Mets fan has so disheartened me that I cannot recommend it any longer. Our son is a Braves fan in utero, and will be a Braves fan for the length of his life. I will make sure to teach our son three important lessons: (1) always put Jesus Christ first in his life, (2) love and respect his family, and (3) always be a Braves fan. Thanks for the gentle reminder from an older generation to keep my priorities right…:)

Now, to the game. I noticed a couple of things last night. Chipper was running more than he has in a couple of years, it seems. Was he just stretched out better, or is he hearing these calls that refer to him as a prima donna and a player who doesn’t go all out? I still say that Chipper will be a Hall-of-Famer if he can stay healthy. The other interesting thing is that Laroche went the other way on his double, and it seemed that he was trying to do so. That is encouraging. If he can go with the pitch and not try to pull everything, there is still hope for him. Frenchy’s three strikeouts bother me, only because it means that he’s not being patient. Someone on the TBS crew (maybe Sutton) mentioned the other day that when Frenchy takes the first pitch, his average is up around .325. He needs to take a few more first pitches. Lastly, Brian McCann needs to get well soon. That kid is an All-Star already in my estimation. He’s leading the NL in hitting (or will when his plate appearances catch up), and he’s already thrown out ten attempted base stealers. He’s TWENTY FREAKING TWO!! Since we’re on this subject, can anyone tell me why Mike Piazza gets voted to All-Star games? Yes, he is history’s leading home run hitter at catcher; that’s great and congratulations to him. But his defense is awful. He has thrown out 10% of attempted base stealers since the start of last season. Is it the hair? What gets him voted on?

Jimmy Smith, while I’m not as “seasoned” as many other bloggers here, I remember going to my grandfather’s cotton gin as a little kid. He would give me the key to the soda machine, and I would pull out an ice cold NuGrape out of the can (I know it’s better in a bottle, but that’s what he had). I have had some great times with Paw Paw, but that is one of my favorite memories.

The Braves are at .500 on this trip, and there’s nothing like visiting the Cubbies to end the roadie on a high note. Let’s get a sweep to finish 6-3 on the trip! Not bad for a team with no leadoff hitter, no 1B, no hitting LF, no catcher, no bullpen, and a senile manager…insert sarcasm here.

Go Braves!

By geauxbraves2000

May 25, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

I think Frenchy just showed his baseball youth last night, with the offense putting up some big numbers, he appeared to just want to be a part of it and was going to swing at everything. As he matures, that mindset will probably go away. IMHO

By Chris

May 25, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

How about a scenario that makes sense, like Chipper at 1st and Betemit at 3rd? Do you actually watch baseball, DOB?

By MGL

May 25, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

WB started 14 games in a row in April. His AVE was .240 and OBP .320. Which starter do you want to take out for those numbers?

By eware

May 25, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

I’m a little nervous about Horacio. I think his best years are behind him. But, I said the same about Thomson…I never thought a pirate (not the team, but the actual sea thief) would make a great pitcher.

DOB, thanks for the Chulahoma recommendation - great music!

By ATL Big Iron

May 25, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

Betemit is a solid player who probably does derserve several more ABs/week. I’ve always wondered how he’s viewed in the clubhouse by players and coaches. His demeanor always seems pretty quiet and reserved.

By braves fan

May 25, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

Brad Clontz is who got sent down when Fox, Cather and Millwood were brought up. Not sure who the other two were.

By Dirty Dawg

May 25, 2006 11:16 AM | Link to this

Agree, agree, agree…with the Betemit in the lineup everyday thing…with having him leadoff…with using him anyway you have to - supersub, first base, whatever. He’s one of the best players (hit and field) on the team and we’re saving him for late inning pinch-hitting? Move Giles down to six, seventh or eighth - without the pressure of leadoff he’ll come around - did I mention that Betemit seldom strikes out?

And yes on Diaz as well. Platoon the Frenchman and Langerface and see just how long Diaz can keep it up. I know Bobby’s had all the success in the world using his platooning and sticking with slumping guys that have had success in the past, but I’d like to see him go to more of a ‘hot hand’ strategy - sort of a ‘shoot til you hit, then shoot til you miss thing’.

By the way, how about Renteria at first, or even second - Betemit’s a better SS. I know folks seem to be ready to throw Chipper under the bus, but he deserves to stay at third…he’s running better than he has in years - don’t know if it’s an adjustment to having to ‘change his meds and/or diet’, and he may never again show the power he’s had in the past, but he’s a ball-player’s ball-player and if he stays healthy will challenge for the team’s MVP.

Oh yes, did I mention that we need to get Betemit in the everyday lineup?

By Not-A-Blogger

May 25, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

I ain’t gonna try and dig it up, but I suggested the move mentioned in this blog topic about two weeks ago.

One of the benefits of Betemit at first is his switch-hitting abilities. No need to platoon, with LaRoche or anyone else.

By eware

May 25, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

Betemit’s a better SS?! You’re crazy, man.

By bw

May 25, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

Yea Chris you are exaclty right. Put Chipper the veteran who has earned the right to play his position at 1st where he never plays, and put the Betemit at 3rd that makes perfect sense. Why on earth would Bobby insult Chipper like that. If anyone learns a new postion its not Chipper.

By Boomer

May 25, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

A six-month season and 162 games is a long time. Getting Betemit and Diaz a couple of starts per week would be a smart thing. The regular starters need some rest and if I counted correctly, there are only 3 scheduled off days between the Cubs series and the All-Star break [not counting today]. In other words, DOB, I agree with your thinking. Matthew, I had the same feeling as you did about Francouer. He really seemed intent on joining the hit parade. It was great to see the offense last night. The stolen bases only added to my enjoyment. And by the way, Reitsma looked sharp.

By Travis T

May 25, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Is this year any different than the last 10 years? No discipline at the plate, relying on home runs. When we don’t hit them we don’t score. Nothing changes. TP needs to figure out how get through to these guys. Remember the game against D Willis when we hit 5 straight balls to right field? I almost fell out of my chair. And guess what? we run-ruled them that night. Betemit needs to be at first, I don’t care if LaRoche hits a home run every 20th at bat, if he strikes at 10 times in between it’s not helping the offense.

By student

May 25, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Yes it reminds me of all of that failure in the last 10 years, all of those losing seasons…Oh wait. Look guys, I know the Braves’ failure to produce in the playoffs gets pretty frustrating, but you read some of these comments and you could easily get us confused with the Devil Rays. A little perspective might be in order.

By old timer

May 25, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

Adam Worth, Maddux closed out a game in the playoffs one year against San Diego when Lightenburg couldn’t get anybody out. It isn’t really as hard as Reitsma makes it look.

By student

May 25, 2006 12:59 PM | Link to this

I shouldn’t bother with this because its not a serious subject, but Chipper really isn’t about to move to first at this point. I’m not sure why people think he’s so poor defensively either. Yeah he made a tough error the other night but that kind of stuff happens, its a long season everyone is going to screw up in the field at some point. Admittedly he isn’t ever going to win any gold goals over there, but he’s decent enough and Betemit really isn’t known for his defense either. So it doesn’t even make sense from that angle. Added to that, you just don’t treat a guy who has played all of his life for your organization that way. 3rd is Chipper’s position and he’s earned the right not to be shuttled all around the diamond anytime it seems vaguely convenient.

By Tony

May 25, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

In regards to Chipper, leave him where he is…sure he is not the power he once was and probably will never be again. However as long as he hits .300 and drives in a 110 runs, he will be ok. Of course we know he will not show in the postseason or against an above average pitcher, but what can you do.

Someway, somehow Giles has to get out of the one hole. He just isn’t smart enough to be a leadoff hitter in the mode of David Eckstein or Craig Counsel. I swear we have talked about his overswinging in the past over and over again. And he is another one that is easily overmatched and doesn’t show up in the postseason, but what can you do.

I’m not worried about Andruw, Frenchy is still young, however their strikeout totals are ridiculous. LaRoache down in the 7 spot he is great, in the 5th spot he is a disaster. McCann and Renteria…WHERE WOULD THIS TEAM BE WITHOUT THOSE TWO…

In regards to Betemit…I don’t know what the problem is. Wish the guy would get a chance somewhere.

Closer situation…see last year.

By Riley Martin

May 25, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

Riley Martin sees quite a bit of wasted typing on this blog and things of this nature. All because some idiot Chris made a mortally incorrect statement by saying Chipper should move to 1st. This Chris guy should be agressively pursued and things of this nature.

By Cincybravefan

May 25, 2006 01:55 PM | Link to this

Wow, NuGrape in the bottle! When I was a kid following my Grandad around his central Georgia farm he would take me to the country store and I would always get a NuGrape until I graduated to a Frosty Rootbeer. Are either of those still available? They certainly are not up here in Cincy. I am in the have patience camp for the Braves. I think barring major injury their team along with the farm system will prevail. Don’t give away the farm. However, if a favorable trade came along fine. We all know the needs. Go Braves!

By Adam Worth

May 25, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

old timer, I was actually agreeing with you in a “what do we have to lose” manner. Sorry if I sounded pithy. I would rather see him as a 4th or 5th starter and asst. pitching coach. Again, sorry for sounding mucho sarcastic. My fault.

Matthew, I get tired of seeing Piazza and his underacheiving arm get voted to the All Star Game as well.

By Dutchy

May 25, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

How about this: 1.Renteria, 2.Giles, 3.C. Jones, 4.A. Jones, 5.Betemit, 6.McCann, 7.Francoeur, 8. Diaz/Langerhans. Looks good to me.

By MGL

May 25, 2006 02:41 PM | Link to this

It’s a good thing that Bobby makes the decisions instead of some of our creative bloggers. It’s fun to read the wild ideas, so I’m not slamming anyone. I little reaearch on the stats page might alter some of the thinking. For example, Wilson Betemit is a good guy, and I do like the idea of giving him more sub time, but I certainly would not put him at 1st. LaRoche May stats are a strong .295 AVE and .397 OBP. Also, WB has a lower YTD OBP and a worse strikeout to walk ratio than any of the starting 8 position players except Jeff.

By Adam Worth

May 25, 2006 02:41 PM | Link to this

Dutchy, Betemit in the five hole is a no-go. We just don’t have a bona fide leadoff man. If Chipper had good wheels, I’d be tempted to let him lead off. The guy that bats first is assured of getting the most ABs and Chippper does know how to work a count. Also, if uh, Chipper led off he couldn’t hit into a DP in the first inning. Maybe then let Renteria bat third and Giles second. Everybody now let me know how stupid I am.

By matt

May 25, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

I think having Betemit hitting leadoff is a great idea. It beats having Giles swinging and missing at the first pitch all the damn time. Giles is a solid second baseman, though, so Wilson will have to play solid defense, which he has done nothing but that when he’s been on the field. He needs to be in the lineup every day.

On another note, DOB, here are some bands/albums you need to check out if you haven’t already:

Destroyer - Destroyer’s Rubies Band Of Horses - Everything All The Time Josh Ritter - Animal Years Gnarls Barkley - St. Elsewhere (I’m sure you’ve already heard this one) Neko Case - Fox Confessor Brings The Flood

By Kentavo

May 25, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Mets picked up El Dookie.

We must counter by aggressively going after Dontrelle.

By geauxbraves2000

May 25, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

I don’t have an opinion right now who should bat lead off, but I do think the Braves have to try someone else, Giles just isn’t patient enough to work the count, and it seems he’s always trying to hit the ball into the next city everytime he swings. He is a good bat to have in the lineup, just not leading off. Moving LaRoche down in the lineup turned out okay, why not at least TRY someone else leading off, only if it’s for one game and let’s see what happens.

By Kentavo

May 25, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

No one on Braves roster fits prototypical leadoff hitter profile, combining patience at the plate with speed on the basepaths. But Chipper does get on base and knows how to work the count, so maybe it’s not such a bad idea. He’s a smart baserunner.

Look at BoSox’s leadoff man Youkalis. He’s no speed demon, but he gets on base.

I’d hate to mess with Renteria’s mojo, but he’d be better in no. 1 hole than Giles.

By ncscoots

May 25, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

I begin to believe too many of our fine bloggers worship at the George Bush altar of truth…just make it up and hope others think it is as you say. MGL (and probably a few others, but I can’t handle reading EVERY blog entry!) put some actual truth on WB, but other bloggers throw out that Wilson “doesn’t strike out much” (no, just 21K in about 80 AB); “gets on base” (yeah, to a .325 or so clip); “great defensively” (buzzzz…sorry, wrong answer, good not great); etc, etc, etc. Jeez, I’ve gone from a guy who LIKES Wilson to being sick of hearing his name. Please, anyone, convince me that the guy should play every day…I’m a fact slut, and I’m always willing to be convinced, but, bubba, you need a argument backed with something besides your perceptions and dreams to do it.

By Jordan

May 25, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else wondering what Todd Pratt is still doing on the team? i don’t care if he claims to be playing injured, because his sub 200 BA is inexcusable (even if he did have 2 hits and 2 RBI’s last night) and his defense is marginal. his swing sometimes makes me cringe. why don’t we release him or trade him to some other “lucky” club?

By Nolan

May 25, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Todd Pratt is marginal at best I agree, but most team’s backup catchers suck as well. He does handle pithers well, especially the young ones. I think it’s safe to say we’ll be happy when McCann returns!

By Bob, journalist jg

May 25, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

Matthew,

Promises, promises! You remind me of my Mother … it would take a computer to keep track of the number of times she told me “I just about to give you … ” or “I was getting ready to let you … ” all with the familiar close “but then you went and misbehaved!”.

Naturally, I’m very dissappointed over not being recommended for promotion but maybe it’s better to remain a lowly “jg” where folks won’t expect too much.

I only know two things for sure … your son will have fine role models as parents … and his priorities will certainly be in order.

Be forewarned that the perils of parenthood are neverending … these days, my biggest thrills come when my 230 pound son visits us and greets me with a big hug … I usually recover just in time for his next visit.

Eli would be proud to have his gin mentioned in such a nice story. I never had NuGrape out of the can but any ice cold NuGrape is about as good as it gets … like hitting a grandslam with nobody on base!

Frenchy’s three strikeouts bothered me too … but not because he wasn’t taking pitches … it looked like he wasn’t picking up the ball as early as usual and it affected his swing. I agree with you that the team is doing well without yet operating on all cylinders … it’ll be interesting!

If Baseball were really interested in having a meaningful AllStar Game with the best teams playing … fan participation in the selection process would be eliminated … as would the requirement that each Major League team be represented.

The selection of “All Stars” will always be subjective … regardless of the process … but we can expect that most fans will vote for their heros, home team players, recognizable names, and those suggensted by the media … rather than making informed choices.

I love pizza … with extra cheese … but, I’m not Piazza fan. Mike is a hero to many and has one of the best known names in Baseball … He’s certainly not an AllStar caliber catcher these days, even if he were to be selected. That said, I think he’ll be an “AllStar” caliber competitor as long as he plays the game.

By Steve

May 25, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones is the best switch hitter of all time…..period. Look it up. Wilson Betemit is not the best switch hitter of all time.

By Daddy Reitsma

May 25, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

Just got a call from my son Chris,he feels good,is working hard on his pitches and he says he is working very closely with roger and smoltz,all you negative Braves fans i am gonna laugh my butt off when he saves 30 games this season for the Braves,then lets see what you morons have to say then.Chris is a good guy with a big heart.he is gonna do well as the closer for the Braves.wait and see.

By Chris Reitsma

May 25, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

Thanks pop for the kind words,glad you and Bobby believe in me,just like you pop i am gonna laugh my butt off when i save 30 games this year for the Braves,i will be the best closer they ever had,my good friend and teammate John Smoltz is giving me pointers on saving games and i will accomplish my goal to be the best closer,you morons come back here when i save my 30th game,i want to see what you got to say then.

By Scott

May 26, 2006 01:00 AM | Link to this

The idea that Wilson Betemit is a better hitter than Chipper Jones is both laughable and ridiculous. Seriously Nancy, don’t post such trash again.

By tim- braves lifer

May 26, 2006 07:51 AM | Link to this

i agree its time to make some changes,loyalty is great but your job is to win and the braves WILL NOT WIN with marcus giles batting lead-off!!

By Aaron

May 26, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

Marcus Giles would be batting .300 easily if Pendleton and Corrales sat him down and pointed out the obvious - he’s got a 380 foot swing in a 400 foot ball park. Stop trying to be Big Brother Brian and get back to swinging like the Marcus Giles from two years ago - consistent, level chops and driving the ball into the gaps. And if that doesn’t work, bench him for Betemit for a few days and let Wilson do that exact thing. All the talk about Betemit not being a leadoff hitter and Langerhans not being a leadoff hitter, maybe so, but they’re both hitting the ball better than Giles. Send him a wakeup call now or trade him to San Diego so he can really mimic his big brother.

By Aaron

May 26, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

Giles signed a one year contract on January 18 of this year, making him eligible for free agency again at the end of this season. Giles is being paid $3.8 million for a paltry .236 AVG, and a decent OBP since he can draw walks like Claudell Washington can draw unemployment. If Atlanta has any interest in shopping Giles, they should do it now. Scheurholz has a history of hanging onto potential free agents too long and not getting anything in return while they skip town. I think the Braves would be better served to work a trade to send Giles to San Diego in exchange for Josh Barfield and Scott Cassidy (combined salaries under $700k this year). Barfield and Betemit could split time at 2nd and Betemit could spell Chipper once every 10 days or so. Some cash considerations would need to balance that deal, or a pitcher (please let it be Reitsma) but it could happen and work well for both teams. Atlanta can get more versatile players into their infield with regular playing time until the farmhands are ready to move up, Cassidy could be a good anchor in the bullpen, and Giles could take potshots at the Petco Porch every swing until he’s hitting 20 HR again each season. Probably won’t happen, but I bet Martin Prado, Betemit, and Yunel Escobar think my plan is genius hehe….

By PoorPoorPitifulMe

May 26, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

Reeksma couldn,t get 30 saves in 30 years!

By Daddy Reitsma

May 26, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

to poor,regarding your comment,i am gonna laugh when you have to eat your words,wait and see,my boy is gonna save 30 games this year for the Braves.

By Daddy Reitsma

May 26, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

My boy Chris deserved the save today against the Cubs more than Ken Ray,Bobby should have let my Boy save that game so he can get his 30 saves,think Bobby is getting too old.wake up Bobby,chris should have been given the opportunity to get the save today.thats not fair on your part.Where is your loyalty.

By Daddy Reitsma

May 26, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

Bobby you told me you thought 30 saves were a realistic goal for my boy Chris,how is he gonna achieve that goal if you start letting others get saves.my boy has worked so hard to do a good job and he deserved that save and vote of confidence,you said you were gonna stick by him.

By fart

May 29, 2006 07:26 PM | Link to this

Time to get rid of Thomson and get a better starter,perhaps Dontrelle.Trade salty and a young prospect for dontrelle.if no takers for Thomson then release him.

By Jennifer

May 30, 2006 10:56 AM | Link to this

I really do hate it that Bonds passed Ruth what a shame.. but records are meant to be broken.. just sad that someone who has steriods issues had to do it…

By John

May 30, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this

Jennifer you are so right,it is a downright shame that someone like Barroid Bonds had to break the Babes record.Babe would turn over in his grave if he knew about that.The record shouldn’t even count.The thing about it is Bonds tries to play stupid about it and claims he didn’t use steroids,look at him when he played for Pittsburg,he was a lot smaller guy. It is a shame that people like Bonds,doc Gooden,Darryl Strawberry,players who had good futures and were stars had to get messed up with drugs,all the millions they make and then ruin their lives and careers,they all deserve to be in jail.

By Dave

June 1, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this

Can anyone tell me why MARTA does not provide train service directly to Brave’s stadium? Atlanta’s public transit is a joke. Instead of a direct ride to see the Brave’s - we are obligated to get off at 5-points, navigate the entire length of the Underground and take a smelly, hot, dirty bus over to the Ted. Now, on top of that - MARTA wants us to pay for these painful and risky incoveniences. They are charging $2.75 for a one way bus ride to the Ted. For a ride that shouldn’t even exist! But wait - MARTA offers a $1.75 discount TO the stadium if you have a transfer bringing your distasteful round trip bus ride to only $3.75! WOW! Brilliant! Now no one will use MARTA for a Brave’s game except naive tourists (who will remember the pain of MARTA for years after they leave our city).

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June 6, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

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