Braves

By Tomahawkin

May 26, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

Go Braves! anything short of 2 of 3 will be unacceptable!

By Luke

May 26, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

I need to see Hudson go buckwild today.

By dylan

May 26, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

the guy I am playing in fantasy leagues has zambrano so lets beat up on him today boys

By Tomahawkin

May 26, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

We Better see Huddy go Buck today… Oh yea word of mouf from ESPN insider is that the Tigers are looking for a left handed bat

There’s no guarantee the Tigers will continue to do well against right-handers, and for the long term, manager Jim Leyland knows the lineup needs a third left-handed hitter.

“You run into good right-handed pitchers who are nasty on right-handed hitters,” Leyland told the newspaper. “All of a sudden you are stacked up. Plus, it’s a no-brainer to bring in a good right-hander from the bullpen. If you have a left-hander in the middle of those right-handed hitters, it makes them think twice about it.”

Send them LaRoche, for Fernando Rodney, that dude has been clownin so far in the early going

By Eric

May 26, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this

Huddy and Zam hooked up last August in an epic duel. Good game. Chipper also blasted 2 homers.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

I wasn’t looking forward to hearing that on McCann today… thanks for letting us know though DOB! which I’d rather have in the long run and not risk hurting it worse and losing him for longer!

By Adam

May 26, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

I just saw this part of an article in the NY Post…

“If the Braves fall out of contention in the NL East, Hudson could be available, because money matters to the Braves and Hudson, 31, next month, is due $33 million from 2007 to 2009 and $2 million more for the second half of this season.”

Anyone hear of anything about this before now??!!??

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

First pitch hasn’t been thrown, but already some bad news for the Braves.

Brian McCann tweaked his ankle again when he tested it during pregame drills, and now it looks like he’s going to go on DL. Decision won’t be made for sure until Saturday, but it seems highly probable that he’ll be DL’d to open spot for Horacio Ramirez to pitch tomorrow.

Horacio is definitely going to pitch, by the way. That part of decision has been made.

McCann pulled up when he was running a “figure 8” drill in the outfield at about 11:45 a.m. here. Looked like he’d pulled a hammy or something, it was that noticeable. Came off the field and punched some padding over the dugout and shouted an expletive. Not good, folks.

“That hurts,” Bobby Cox said of potentially losing McCann for the next 15 days.

He felt fine running straight ahead and when they tested it in the training room. It’s just cutting that hurts, and he has to be able to do that to play. Trainer said if it’s still hurting like that now, six days after the injury, then it’s probably going to take another two weeks to heal, so Braves will almost certainly DL him.

Brayan Pena will have to catch a game or two a week to preserve 39-year-old Todd Pratt, who’s playing on a bum ankle. If _ big IF _ Pena just can’t do anything, or if something were to happen to him, then Jarrod Saltalamacchia would probably get a call. But Salty hasn’t hit his weight and isn’t on the 40-man roster.

Still, Braves are as high as ever on their No. 1 prospect (Salty) and Bobby said Friday he wouldn’t be afraid at all to use him at this level, now. But for now, Pena is the backup and Pratt the starter until McCann is back.

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

If MacAnn goes to the DL, it won’t be retro from the plowing he received, but when he pinched hit. That’s like 5 0r 6 games! Dumb move from Cox, and I am a huge Cox fan.

By jennifer

May 26, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

SOOO close but so far away.. chipper almost had a HR

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

they should have gone ahead and DLd him last week

By STEPHEN

May 26, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

FRENCHY WALKS IN A RUN

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

WTG Jeffrey!

By TennesseePaul

May 26, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

NewYork is dreaming. If all new yorks dreams came true, the turn over on all teams would be massive. Every day a play is trade for the best performer of the day before. I’m sure they’d trade themselves into oblivion.

But I suppose that also is to be determined by the next owner. Traditionally the Braves don’t sign and trade like say, the Marlins or the Yankees. If I’m to guess, I’d say it’s a sure bet Hudson will be in Atlanta for a few more years.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

Four walks and only one run in first. But they did get Zambrano to throw 37 pitches. Should be able to get to the bullpen early.

Wind not blowing out today. Not much wind to speak of. Chipper’s ball is way gone if wind is what it normally is here.

Langerhans was batting .179 with one extra-base hit and 18 strikeouts in his past 19 games before today, when he struck out with bases loaded to end first inning

By MGL

May 26, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

According to gameday, 39 pitches for Zambrano in his 1st inning walkathon.

By TennesseePaul

May 26, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

That should have read: Every day a player would be traded

I was way off.

By MGL

May 26, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

DOB - wasn’t correcting you on the pitch count, the posts were simultaneous.

By ssiscribe

May 26, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

Stinks about McCann. I questioned Cox pinch-hitting him the other night, even though he leads the league in hitting and the offense at that point couldn’t punch its way out of a wet paper sack. On the flip side, there won’t be the temptation to rush Mac back early. A few extra days won’t hurt.

This is the time LaRoche and Francoeur have to start hitting in the 5-6 hole. McCann had done a great job after being moved from seventh to fifth in the order, and I think it had a good impact on Frenchy and LaRoche, too. Now, those two guys have to start carrying their weight with Mac out.

Encouraging to see Giles lead off the game with a walk. But Zambrano didn’t exactly paint the black in that first inning. Giles really needs to get it going, too, but there is no way you move Renteria up to leadoff. He’s the perfect No. 2 hitter and is one heck of a table-setter (hyphen? I’m not working, so who cares) for the Jones boys, et al.

Nice stab by Hudson to end the inning. Need a couple more runs to get this one in hand. Last thing you wanna do with a team that’s struggling as bad as the Cubs is give them a reason to think they can win. Langerhans striking out in the first wasn’t good.

Neither was that strike two call. Good God, that pitch missed by a foot!

By ssiscribe

May 26, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

Stinks about McCann. I questioned Cox pinch-hitting him the other night, even though he leads the league in hitting and the offense at that point couldn’t punch its way out of a wet paper sack. On the flip side, there won’t be the temptation to rush Mac back early. A few extra days won’t hurt.

This is the time LaRoche and Francoeur have to start hitting in the 5-6 hole. McCann had done a great job after being moved from seventh to fifth in the order, and I think it had a good impact on Frenchy and LaRoche, too. Now, those two guys have to start carrying their weight with Mac out.

Encouraging to see Giles lead off the game with a walk. But Zambrano didn’t exactly paint the black in that first inning. Giles really needs to get it going, too, but there is no way you move Renteria up to leadoff. He’s the perfect No. 2 hitter and is one heck of a table-setter (hyphen? I’m not working, so who cares) for the Jones boys, et al.

Nice stab by Hudson to end the inning. Need a couple more runs to get this one in hand. Last thing you wanna do with a team that’s struggling as bad as the Cubs is give them a reason to think they can win. Langerhans striking out in the first wasn’t good.

Neither was that strike two call. Good God, that pitch missed by a foot!

By ssiscribe

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

Stinks about McCann. I questioned Cox pinch-hitting him the other night, even though he leads the league in hitting and the offense at that point couldn’t punch its way out of a wet paper sack. On the flip side, there won’t be the temptation to rush Mac back early. A few extra days won’t hurt.

This is the time LaRoche and Francoeur have to start hitting in the 5-6 hole. McCann had done a great job after being moved from seventh to fifth in the order, and I think it had a good impact on Frenchy and LaRoche, too. Now, those two guys have to start carrying their weight with Mac out.

Encouraging to see Giles lead off the game with a walk. But Zambrano didn’t exactly paint the black in that first inning. Giles really needs to get it going, too, but there is no way you move Renteria up to leadoff. He’s the perfect No. 2 hitter and is one heck of a table-setter (hyphen? I’m not working, so who cares) for the Jones boys, et al.

Nice stab by Hudson to end the inning. Need a couple more runs to get this one in hand. Last thing you wanna do with a team that’s struggling as bad as the Cubs is give them a reason to think they can win. Langerhans striking out in the first wasn’t good.

Neither was that strike two call. Good God, that pitch missed by a foot!

By Miranda

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

I wonder… if they DL McCann would they after a week or so send him to one of the minor teams (like they do the pitchers) for some work before they bring him back in?

By ssiscribe

May 26, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

YIKES! Sorry about the triple post

By Phat Bat Boy

May 26, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

How about trading for Juan Pierre to be our lead-off man and left fielder? I know that he is having a miserable year, but if we can get Giles back to form by removing him from the top spot, then we would be adding a potent bat by making that move (Giles’ re-born bat). Maybe we can leave Chi-Town with Pierre as our lead-off batter and Williamson as the closer. Send them Langerhans, one of our 17 young shortstops and a pitching prospect.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

Nowhere like Wrigley for a day game with the sun shining and the place packed, which it is today. They’ve sold every seat for the entire season, and the good folks have watched some wretched ball since Derrek Lee got hurt early.

Huddy looks very sharp, again. It really does appear as though he’s turned the corner toward becoming the ace the Braves expected when they traded for him and gave him that big extension before he’d ever thrown a pitch for them.

By the way, Horacio has to be sitting in the dugout thinking, ‘I hope the wind is like this tomorrow.’ In his only previous start at Wrigley in 2003, he gave up nine hits and seven runs in 3-2/3 innings.

And frankly, he was only impressive in spots during his rehab assignment. Had some alarmingly hittable innings, including a couple in his last start this week with Richmond.

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this

I am off until Tuesday, and I’ll watch all games. This will cause tension in my humble dwelling. Might even cause me a drought in physicall bonding. I am taking one for the team, so they have to go 4-0. I will go 0-4. Watching the game on WGN. Weird vibe here. TMI!

By Marc

May 26, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

But of course to Bobby and John, that translates to let’s get Ramirez out there as quick as we can. Why not start Chuck James instead? Is he still hurt? I just don’t trust Ramirez, I don’t understand what Bobby and John are looking at. What do they see, that everyone else misses?

By MGL

May 26, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

I guess our offense didn’t like the way the 1st inning turned out. 3 up 3 down in the top of the second and third on only 6 and 10 pitches.

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: Where are the new seats in Wrigley? can’t see them on T.V.

By Marc

May 26, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

In an earlier blog you said that we shouldn’t blame Terry P for the lack of plate discipline that the Braves hitters show. This confuses me. Isn’t the job of a coach to get the players to listen to your teachings. To me it sounds as if Tery is not agood coach. These guys swing at everything, rarely do they display situational hitting, and they don’t seem to be improving. The Braves are all a bunch of good professional guys, why won’t they listen. Bobby and Terry should make them listen, that is what coaches do, they are there to teach and impliment a game plan.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

Phat Bat Boy, good thing you’re not a GM. That’s the worst idea I’ve heard in quite a while.

You want to trade for Juan Pierre, who is having a season that makes Marcus Giles look like Rickey Henderson. Pierre, who’s in his second consecutive season of steeeeep decline, but you believe, unlike the scouts and a certain manager, that he can turn it around? Just flick the switch and be the old Pierre? Good logic.

Anyway … Huddy throwing a gem.

By the way, Giles’ leadoff walk today was first time Braves leadoff guy got on base to start game since last Friday at Phoenix.

By Marc

May 26, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Braves are going to get no-hit and win. Guys like Zambrano, and Wood have got to be licking their lips when they know they are going to face the Braves. They can each get 10-15 strikeouts.

By Miranda

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

well now it’s tied

By Adam

May 26, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

I agree completly DOB, it looks like Pierre could be one of the “steriod boys” that quit before he got caught. How else do you explain a fall of of production that much? You don’t just forget how to hit and gt on base. By the way, why are not more people talking about other MLB players that have fallen off so much from previous year’s numbers?

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

now we’re losing

so the blog went crazy on me for a while… it wasn’t accepting my post but yet they’re there now… weird

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

Mediocre to above average pitchers can shut down the Braves lineup, we’ve seen it time and time again this season, and Zambrano is definitely above average, so it’s going to be a tough comeback. If the Braves will be PATIENT, maybe they could get to him.

By Marc

May 26, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this

It’s going to be tough the Braves can’t hit good pitching. Now I know saying that is obvious, good pitching is tough for anyone to hit. But with the Braves swinging at everything, they seemed to get shut down all the time. The Cubs may suck, but the Braves having to face Zambrano and Wood, I knew that it was going to be tough. What’s annoying is that the Cubs lineup sucks, Hudson should have shut these bums out. This team has to go on a long winning streak to make sure they stay in the race. Especially with the Mets playing the Marlins, the Braves can’t afford to loose games like this against a bad team. They just can’t sseem to stay consistent with pitching, defense and hitting in order to start a winning streak.

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

Gee, 5 innings and only 7 Braves have struck out. Wow.

By Marc

May 26, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Geez they better pick it up, if they want to strikeout more than they did against Peavy. Maybe having a guy toss a nohitter against them will wake them up. It’s pitiful, to watch.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

That scoring decision on the infield hit was the worst I’ve seen all year. Should’ve been a Giles throwing error, without question.

Anyway … the story is obviously Zambrano right now. I mean, no hits through five innings, after that horrid first inning.

Let’s just say the odds of this continuing are astronomical, not just because of the four-walk first inning, but this: I covered A.J. Burnett’s nine-walk, one-hit-batter no-hitter at San Diego years ago. So the odds of me covering another similar sloppy no-hitter are simply absurd.

That, plus I’ve already covered more than my lifetime allotment of no-hitters _ four of them, including both extremes, A.J.’s against the Padres at old Jack Murphy Stadium, and R.J.’s perfecto against Braves two years ago.

So count on a hit here in the sixth inning by the Braves. Guaranteed.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

well we finally got someone on base

c’mon Andruw!

By MGL

May 26, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this

Ok, Chipper just took a walk. In between the first inning and this walk, 13 straight Braves were retired while taking only 11 balls. Less than 1 per AB. Why can’t they have more patience??

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

well… laroche walked…

c’mon jeff

By Jason

May 26, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

Nice prediction there Davey.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

oh well… we didn’t capitalize on that inning!

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

Chipper & LaRoche were patient, then came Frenchy and that was that.

By Bob, journalist

May 26, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

JimmySmith, Langerhans got snookered … that strike two call was made by an imposter … Bobby should protest the game!

I got snookered too … sent you a post to the previous blog after the change.

The latest on the “short guy” … the ACLU is quoted as saying they never have had anyone complain about “height” discrimination … I used to complain all the time beccause the tall guys seemed to get all the good looking girls!

The DA plans to appeal the Judge’s ruling and the Warden of the prison where “shorty” would have gone, said that would be no special endangerment because of his height … were he to serve time there.

It turns out that there are inmates in that prison who are shorter than “shorty” … and I suspect that they will have their lawyers petition the “Judge” for a new hearing … after all, fair is fair!

We’ve still got 3 turns at innings to go … but it would be nice if we could get some hits before the ninth.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

Would you believe, the seventh inning? No? OK, I’ll shut up.

Anyway … he’s at 105 pitches now, Zambrano is. Five walks, no hits, two shots to the warning track in that last inning. It’ll end, folks. Never fear.

(the braves better hope it ends, or they’ll have the dubious distinction of being the victims of the last two no-no’s in majors)

By Marc

May 26, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Sad that we are predicting a hit and not a win. I guarentee that the Braves will get a ball out of a the infield in the next inning. I predict that a Brave hitter will take two pitches in the next inning.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

2 run homer?? i swear…

we need to get some hits this is pitiful

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

One (more) reason not to do an in-game blog _ because things you say earlier look silly innings later. That’s what happens when you try to judge a pitcher inning-by-inning instead of waiting until the game’s over.

All the stuff I said about Huddy throwing a gem a few innings back? Nevermind. I never said those things. Someone else did.

By Marc

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

There goes the game. Nice work by Hudson, are ace. He didn’t step up. Shout out to the stellar hitting for really stepping up. With the Mets playing the Marlins we’ll be out of the race again. This team needs fixing, now, not excuses. Whaat a joke.

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this

Omygod! it is only 1 pm here. atrocious day ahead as everyone I know will be teasing me all day. omygod!

By Marc

May 26, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this

Way to go Huddy, give up a two run game clinching homer to F Bynum. Now that is an ace. Classic Braves give up a huge hit to a no name player. This years team id very frustrating.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

oh I swear.. I say we call Pratt safe!

lol

By TrueBlueBravesFan

May 26, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

So whats the deal. Did the news of McCanns setback put the batting funk back on the team or what? Also why in the world can’t this team learn to take till strike 2 when the opposing pitcher is near 100 pitches. Geeez

This team just looks anemic against decent(Not good mind you) pitchers.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

yea the news on McCann must have gotten em

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

Amazing what happens when your third baseman actually makes a play, and sombody out of position at first base makes a play on the other end.

YEAH……I’M TALKIN TO CHIPPER & JORDAN.

Oh by the way, nice throw on that hit and run Giles.

By TrueBlueBravesFan

May 26, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

Also I hate to to say this because I know hes a stand up guy who plays decent defense but Langerhans is starting to look very overmatched in the big leagues.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

woohoo… Wilson

By Marc

May 26, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

Hoooray Betemit. Thank God he is on the bench, he doesn’t deserve more playing time, what with Giles swinging so well, and the Braves offense as a whole swinging so well.

By Daybed Wagmoe

May 26, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

betemit just doubled off the wall, followed by giles’ double down the 1B line…

PHEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TrueBlueBravesFan

May 26, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Leave it to WB to break up the no-no. The one player that should be in there everyday and isn’t.

By Big Earl

May 26, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

DOB - what are the implications of Salty not being on the 40 man roster?

By Marc

May 26, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

Perfect, just how the Braves planned it. We should go six and 2/3 inning before getting a hit, against a wild pitcher. Okay now for the pitching, Hudson you keep it close until just before the Braves decide to string a couple of hits together. Give up a homerun to a nobody to put the game out of reach. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB…..since there are usually so many empty seats at the Ted. What are the odds of makin’ a push to bring back Chief Nokahoma & his TeePee?

Is he even still alive?

By Miranda

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

GREAT catch by Langy!

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

I’ll say this about the Braves outfielders. Even though Langerhans & Frenchy appear to be streaky hitters, you’d be hard pressed to show me a better defensive trio of outfielders ANYWHERE!

Imagine what the pitching staff’s ERA would be without those 3 guys running down balls!

By eric the elder

May 26, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

I wish BC would go with hot hands (e.g., Diaz and Betemit) instead of cold hands (e.g., Langy).

btw, for Chipper bashers and Renteria lovers, Renteria is hitting .322 and Chipper .315.

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

Once again the offense makes it close, and once again the bullpen makes it farther.

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

I don’t mean to whine about Chipper, because unlike some people on these blogs, I think Chipper does play with passion. But to compare .322 to a .315 (by the way…..nice catch by andruw….way to groove one to the clean up hitter McBride)…anyhow back to my point. It’s all fine and dandy that Chipper’s Average is climbing. He’s not being paid 15 million dollars (or whatever the renegotiated deal was for) to hit for a high average, if we wanted that we could sign Bill Meuller for a lot less. He is being paid big bucks for Power numbers……they’re just not there this year….yet.

I’m not ripping on you, I just think it’s apples and oranges.

By elbravo x

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

can we please rally?

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

If I was an opposing pitcher, I would not give andruw anything on the inner half to hit, he’s starting to try and pull everything again. Absolutely ridiculous!!!! Has anybody ever shown him video footage of Piazza, Murpy, Thome? (WOW as I speak the gods shine down!) All of these guys made a GOOD living hitting with power to the other field.

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

rally please!

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this

Rare that you see Andruw playing too shallow, but that appeared to be the case with that Barrett double over his head.

Braves are one big hit away from making this interesting, with runners on the corners and B.J. coming to bat. Personally, I’d rather have LaRoche in this spot.

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

If andruw were to approach every at bat like he did the last one. (fighting off pitches and waiting for somthing to drive the other way - or of course turning on somthing inside) the MVP would be his to lose ever year with the way he plays defense.

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

way to hack at that 3-1 pitch Jeff!

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

watching the way Diaz approaches each at bat, I don’t see any reason to not get him in the line up every day! DOB….do you know if he can play a little 1B? Or have other people asked that, and I haven’t been paying attention. (too busy typing! LOL!)

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

OK maybe letting a 3-2 fastball down the middle go by isn’t a “great” approach! LOL

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

gone surfing, later guys.

By TrueBlueBravesFan

May 26, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

I’m now convinced that its not Bobby Cox. Its the bunch of lunkheads the JS keeps putting on the roster for him. Geesh at the rate this team is wiffing its aiming for a new league record.

I can feel the breeze all the way here in Atlanta.

By Marc

May 26, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

So this Cubs team can’t hit at all, so it makes sense that we give them 5 runs. And that is with are best to second best pitcher on the mound. The Braves get 1st and second with no outs. BJ, out, Franceur ground ball, Diaz strike three, one run. With one hit there the Braves could have won. I don’t understand how anyone can think this team can win the division, with this roster and with the way they are playing. I know history says the Braves will win the division, but honestly this team does not do the little things well, they are inconsistent, and have numorous holes. The Mets are much improved, and playing well. A game like today cements the fact, the Cubs are bad and we loose, with bad pitching and no hitting. Franceur should only play at home, come on man get a hit on the road. On the road teams still use a baseball, the mound is the same distance from home plate, and you swing the same bat.

By nathan

May 26, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

well said marc.

By MGL

May 26, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this

It will take a miracle to pull this one out. Next batter Pratt, then pitcher’s spot and only Orr on the bench (maybe Sosa should bat)

By craig t

May 26, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

same old Huddy, a few good starts, then back to reality. You have to be a stud to be a number 1 pitcher on a staff, and Hudson hasnt been steady since coming to Atlanta. BTW, where’s the offense again, and way to go to the entire pitching stafee for giving up 5 runs and over 10 hits on a team with the worse batting average in the NL. With a new pitcher for the Cubs on Sat and Woods on Sunday, the Braves will be luckly to get out with one win. This team needs a new first baseman, new leadoff hitter, bullpen and closer, other than that we are set to make a run at the Mets, yeah right

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this

Ok, one more inning.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

Well, the in-game blog went decently, huh? OK, I only said decently.

Better than the game went for the Bravos. Got to get downstairs now, beat the crowd to the clubhouse. No press elevator here, so you take the ramps along with the fans, and none of them have left yet.

This place is a bar with a ball diamond in the middle.

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

one more thing, why can’t the braves get Willis from Fla when he’s available, and why wouldnt you bring up Salty, even if he is struggling, we don’t have the lineup to go without Mccanns bat for 15 days

By nathan

May 26, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

Chip & Joe keep talking about how amazing the bench is! Does anybody else think that maybe we have 2 or 3 or maybe even 4 of the wrong guys on the bench?

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

c’mon Marcus!

By nathan

May 26, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

what a patient leadoff hitter we have!….NOT

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

woohoo… walk

c’mon Renty

By nathan

May 26, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

color me wrong. he looked ugly on that 2-1 pitch….unfortunately that walk set up the double play.

I’m not sure why i have to dwell on the negative all the time! LMAO

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

I’m hopeful Edgar can get a hit

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

Nathan, Because there’s mostly bad on the Braves so far this year

By Mike

May 26, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

lets go bravos………

By nathan

May 26, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

if we don’t win this game with how many walks and opportunities they’s HANDED the bravos….then the braves are more pathetic than the cubbies.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

c’mon Chipper! a hit… please

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

This rally started with Orr, who can run, and steal bases, and has shown some ability to hit some, perhaps we have a possible leadoff hitter

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this

c’mon Andruw!

By Marc

May 26, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

Nice at bat by Chipper, striking out is unacceptable in that situation, and he is a veteran.

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

WE LEAD!!! WOOHOO

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

Miranda, we still have Reitsma, don’t get too excited

By Mike

May 26, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

bring in ray!

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this

omygod!

By MGL

May 26, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this

Well, Andruw does what Chipper was supposed to do.

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

oh my gosh, we finally see the deathray in a closer role

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Well, whaddya know? All it took was for me to write off the Braves and run down to the clubhouse at the start of the ninth inning. Voila — Dempster meltdown, Braves three runs and a potential win pulled from the jaws of defeat.

I was down in the crowd watching those walks and runs, and you should’ve heard the boos, mingled with a bunch of Braves fans doing the war chant. Actually, quite a few Braves fans doing the chant.

Cubs fans started streaming for the seats, resigned to defeat after the two runs scored on the sac fly and error. The ones still here are booing like crazy now.

What is it about closers this year? Seems like more meltdowns than ever.

Hey, big day for the Braves. And again, how’d you like to be a Cubs fan? Seriously, they’re awful. This would be their 21st loss in 26 games, if Ken Ray gets these last outs.

Now I am going back down. Talk to you soon

By Miranda

May 26, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

yea… I started thinking about that.. you know it’s sad when we have to get all worked up that we have to go back out and use the pen! lol

yay! Ray!

By Mike

May 26, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

that a’boy ray

By nathan

May 26, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this

Who needs Reitsma when you’ve got DEATH RAY?

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

like what I’m seeing, throw strikes, get outs, and close the game

By Miranda

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

WE WIN!

By craig t

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

the DEATHRAY does it, here’s our new closer, image it, he can come out of the pen to the darth vader theme, what marketing

By lefty

May 26, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe the blog has been silent this whole time. We absolutely stole this game.

By elbravo x

May 26, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

glad I stuck around!

By Marc

May 26, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

DOB blogging, Braves play terrible. DOB leaves blog, Braves play well and win. I vote for no more in game blogging from DOB. Or if he does, he has to leave if the Braves start playing bad. Nice win.

By Paul Hamilton

May 26, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

Nice job Ray! 3 and out what a RELIEF for a change. No drama.

By eric the elder

May 26, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

Let’s not forget that we eked out 3 wins against awful Florida with 9th inning miracles, and now an awful Cubs team gave us a 9th inning win. I’m still not convinced that we are a very good team.

By craig t

May 26, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

I agree eric, but wins beats losses

By Bob, journalist

May 26, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

The game was never in doubt! Ken Ray for President … I mean Closer!

By Paul Hamilton

May 26, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

Ummm eric the elder, I’m not exactly convinced we are that great of a team, but I really enjoyed watching Ray come in and get three straight outs in the 9th. A lot of good teams pull out tough wins against terrible teams, throwing it in everyone’s faces is like beating a dead horse.

By Hal

May 26, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this

Some thoughts watching todays game (1) guess we wont have to watch someone call BC an “idiot” for bringing remlinger in to face two leftys huh?(2) Tough out in the 9th Chipper!!(3)someone mentioned bringing up Salty ,ummm hes hitting less at DOUBLE A then pratts hitting in the majors(4) Ray looked very comfortable (5) Closer by committe might be the way to go ,it seems no closer is doing the job this year this side of mariano

By David

May 26, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Ahhh gotta love these comeback wins. The cubs morale must worse than it was at the beginning of the game. Braves need to get some early runs tomorrow and possibly put defeat in the hearts of the team. Death Ray looked awesome. Ladies and gents, we have a new closer, for now…

By HEAD COACH

May 26, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

We get a gift from the cubbies and OMG , stop the presses , we have a closer , I say a gain , we have a closer and his name is DEATHRAY…… Ryan Demster pulls a REESKMA in the ninth for the cubbies and we have a DEATHRAY !!! I luv it !!! absolutely luv it.

By billy

May 26, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

here’s whats going to get the braves going…..in a tense game with their backs on the wall Chipper/Andruw will hit a walk off and the Braves will go on a roll.

By MEB

May 26, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

Been to a couple of county fairs, a circus or two, and even been around the world a couple of times, but I have never seen a baseball game like this one. I thought I had seen everything in baseball but today’s game takes the cake. I actually felt sorry for the Cub’s fans but then I got over it. Go Braves! Way to go DEATHRAY!!!

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

Bobby insisted he was only using Death Ray in order to give Reitsma two days off. I asked if it wasn’t because of matchups or anything else and he said no, they had decided to give Reitsma two days’ rest regardless.

Oh well … whatever. Death Ray pierced the Cubs in the ninth, and left many in the crowd wondering who the h*&% he was.

By Daddy Reitsma

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

My Boy Chris should have been given the opportunity to save that game,chris is doing better and can easily be a good closer,Bobby should have stuck with him,wait and see my boy Chris is gonna shine and be excellent.

By Vonshawn

May 26, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

Hip hip Ken Ray!! Please bring him in to save everytime.

By brewdawg

May 26, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

To Eric the elder- good teams take advantage when teams try to give games away. We did exactly that today. I understand your point- and I agree the jury is still out but again- good teams take advantage of bad play. On a side note- Freddie Gonzalez deserves huge kudos for waving Giles.

By TennesseePaul

May 26, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

I’d love to see Death Ray come out to the Darth Vader theme. That would be incredible. It would be the best entrance theme music in the pros. Especially when he shoots them down one after another.

GO BRAVES!!!!!

Nice come back today! I’m not sure why it’s a bad thing that we came back to win against the Cubs. Zambrano is an excellent pitcher and we still won. If I’m not mistaken, the Royals have won a few games this year, they had to beat somebody other than themselves for those W’s.
It’s baseball… sh!t happens.
As long as we keep posting W’s I’m happy. And honestly, I’m not so sure I’m disappointed we didn’t blow them out. We need to learn how to win the close games. We can’t just go through the season blowing everyone out or losing a one run game. It’s good practice for the post season to learn how to win close ones and come from behind.

By David

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

Damn David, I was on such a high. Then you just dropped me back down. Now I have to fear in one run games that Reitsma will be coming in to save. But, I have a feeling tomorrow afternoons game will not be a one run game. Call it a hunch.

By Wedgie Evans

May 26, 2006 06:35 PM | Link to this

At the end of this game, all I could do was laugh out loud. What a ridiculous way to win a game.

I laughed out loud some more at Skip Caray’s classic “The Cubs have snatched defeat from the jaws of victory”.

But nothing made me laugh out loud more than reading all the negative comments on this blog after the game — posted during a game that the Braves WON. Hilarious.

If we can find ways to win games where we play this badly I am completely confident we can win the division.

By gotigers72

May 26, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

The Braves won today, but their hitters still remain undisciplined. I hope Andrew got kudos today for going the other way twice. He got a single and an RBI out of it. Or did he get 2 RBIs on that sac fly. I doubt it since an error was involved. Whenever he is in a slump, it is because he becomes pull happy. Tries to yank everything, even those pitches on the outside corner. Seems like TP would have been able to get in his head by now. I know he’s been trying.

When Frenchy came up last year, he showed a lot of power to right center. Doubles and homers. But he has become a little pull happy also. Both he and Andrew are strong enough to go that way and hit ‘em out. Until they do, they will continue to be pitched outside the strike zone. Diaz seems undisciplined at times also. Swings at a lot of pitches that are out of the strike zone high. I mean eye level or above. He swung at ball four and then took strike three right down the middle today. And what in the world has happened to Langerhans? Keep working on that discipline TP.

By butch

May 26, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

ken ray looked awesome……i hope he will get more chances…he has looked good all year….WAY TO GO KEN

By Andy

May 26, 2006 06:56 PM | Link to this

The braves stole a win—seems like we have to do that alot lately—-win games we were out of in our last at bat—-he we’ll take it—-but the braves do need to get on a roll and dominate from start to finish for a while. Very fun game to watch. Amazed at chipper’s last at bat. He normally is very successful in that situation.

By butch

May 26, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this

Did everyone no that ken and Michael barrette played together as kids…..and on that team was Kyle Farnesworth…the best team wills park ever had…….great job….

By geauxbraves2000

May 26, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

I remember the past few seasons it seemed when the Braves were trailing late in a game, well, you might as well turn the game off and go do something else. It sure is nice this year to see the come back kids, even if it is against teams with losing records. WTG Braves, way to pull this one out. Patient brings walks, walks turn into runs, as evident today.

By Carolina Lady

May 26, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith suggestion for Baby Seal’s name: Barker O’Brien? S. Barker O’Brien? Hmmmmm…..can’t quite get it…. Barker O’Seal? Seal O’Barker? :-))))

By TennesseePaul

May 26, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

The braves have won 13 of the last 18 games. That’s not bad. If HoRam weren’t pitching tomorrow I’d say we would be in excellent position to sweep the series going 15 of the last 20.

The Dodgers are coming up. They’re on fire right now. That’s another test. Maybe we can stroll into the homestead and put out the LA fire. I sure hope so. I hate those filthy Dodgers.

We have a roller-coster schedule coming up… Dodgers (3), D-Backs (4), a 3 game break (Nats) then the Astros (3) another 3 game break (Marlins) followed by the BoSox, D-Rays and Yankees. Hope we sweep them all.
No span during this season is going to be easier than August 14th through August 27th. We play Washington (4), Florida (3), Pitsburgh (3) and then Washington (3). I like that. It’s towards the end of the season… Maybe we can build some momentum out of that and all the late season home games we play.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 26, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this

journalist bob, here’s a hint: mr. mcelveen hired tilly the teller. journalist bob and miranda were right about resting mccann and not rushing him back - look at the mess we’re in now with all these “p” players in the lineup. thankfully, only one “p” catcher can play at a time. now, molasses candy - is bob sure that was molasses candy? there are many candy stores that sell various kinds of molasses candy. baby seal favors a molasses candy on a stick. now, baseball … the braves find ways to win against the lesser teams but it is a struggle. eric the elder may be right, this isn’t a very good team. it’s being tested right now by what should be inferior teams. now, to the blogger who is messing with carolina lady. stop that rude behavior. carolina lady now owns a hartebeest and if you persist in messing with her journalist jimmy smith will procure for her a cape buffalo to be sent to your place of residence or unemployment. mess with jimmy smith but don’t mess with nice carolina lady. now, closer … ken ray earned another shot don’t you think? jimmy smith bets bobby will run him out again because he looked good today. bobby won’t embarrass reitsma but jimmy smith thinks we have a new closer. now, ballpark cheese … it comes in a jar - ugh! back to the intercontinental for a nice nap, then dinner. doing journalism can be rough.

By Jeff

May 26, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

It seems that the braves allways play up to the competition. They don’t ever blow anyone away. Granted, they win some of the games when the competition is not so good, but the good teams beat up on the people they are suppose to beat and play close against other good teams. This only playing to the competition’s level is a recipe for disaster.

By Carolina Lady

May 26, 2006 08:08 PM | Link to this

From a few days ago: “By Carolina Lady

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

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

Boy, was I glad to finally see him out there! Bobby, PLEASE give him more opportunities!! (Fingers are crossed!)

By Carolina Lady

May 26, 2006 08:10 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, how kind of you! Thank you very much! :-)

By old timer

May 26, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

Huge win. Fact that they gave us the final run makes it even better, because you gotta have those kind of wins. If the Cubs weren’t going so bad right now, no way they blow that game.

Rough about McCann, but I’d rather see him on the shelf for a couple weeks and come back 100 percent. I’d go with Pena at catcher. Pratt is fine as a back-up and tutor to young catchers. He should keep doing that with Pena starting.

Boy, Jacque Jones, how can you throw up your hands like that to avoid being charged with an error when your pitcher has a no-hitter going? Game has changed a lot. Could it be the money? Frankly, I think these guys earn their money, considering the revenue they generate. But J. Jones didn’t earn his today.

By Boomer

May 26, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this

Great come-from-behind win by the Braves today! Glad to see Andruw go to right, aggressive baserunning/coaching, Ken Ray in the 9th. By the way, Mets and Marlins tied, 1-1. Go Marlins this weekend.

By Joe Roman

May 26, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Picking up guys for the bullpen no one has ever heard of is where the rubber meets the road for G.M.s. No one is better than Schuerholz. I have the feeling this current crop is becoming a good one. I love Ken Ray. Great movement, great location and great stuff. Maybe it’s just that people think he has a cool name, but I’ll never understand this fascination with Juan Pierre. His arm is a joke and it seems to me he’s hanging onto a big league job by the skin of his teeth. I wouldn’t trade a box of bats for him. I know you meant well, DOB, but this blog along with the game stuff is just a wee bit too high school.

By Carolina Lady

May 26, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this

Hi, Joe! DOB mentioned on the blog just before the game that the blog-during-the-game wasn’t his idea - assignment by AJC.
:-)

By ssiscribe

May 26, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

No way in hell the Braves should’ve won this game. Leaving them loaded in the first was a bad sign … wait a second. They played the Cubs.

Never mind.

I think you could take the best players on the Cubs, the Royals and the Marlins and maybe have a team that could contend. Maybe.

Listened to the eighth and ninth inning on the radio. Skip and Pete really got excited, and hopefully that spread through the rest of the ballclub. On a day where they were seven outs away from being no-hit, on a day when their catcher — the league’s leading hitter — likely headed to the DL, the Braves found a way to win.

The funniest thing was my kids in the backseat started booing when they heard the Cubs fans booing. Man, those poor people in Chi-Town. My wife asked me this afternoon, “Didn’t the Cubs used to be good a couple of years ago?” They were. They should’ve won the pennant in 2003, the one Bartman and Alex Gonzalez (who retired this week, FYI) blew for them in that disasterous eighth inning of Game 6 of the NLCS to the Fish. Poor, poor Cubs fans.

Now, if the Marlins can do something to the Mets tonight, it’s a 3 1/2-game hole.

Sting/Death/Gamma/X Ray looked good pitching the ninth. Real good. Best lookin’ Ray I’ve seen this side of Rachael Ray (a hottie who can cook … yum!). But, of course, Bobby’s gonna trot Reitsma back out there come the ninth tomorrow if the game’s close. Hold your breath, gang.

Alright, got some non-baseball, non-work matters that have popped up here tonight that I have to take care of, unfortunately, and it may be a few days until I’m back. Enjoyed the in-game blog today. Talk with y’all soon.

From the coast, good nite.

By BOOGER

May 26, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

Man!,,Did you see Bobby Cox go deep today during the fifth inning??,,all the way up to the knuckles!

By Bob, journalist

May 26, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith,

I started to use the Buffalo in my post “warning to imposters” … instead of the Mole Viper … but figgered folks would think I was talking about the much less fearsome American Bison. Of course, the Mole Viper usually won’t bother you if you don’t bother it … so it gave a better message.

I’ve got home video clips showing African Buffalo in Aberdare National Park area … one, is of an old male glaring from accross a small stream located at the base of the hill where the Park Lodges are … a second one is of two males grazing in the fog at the base of a 420 meter Falls not far from the park entrance and a third one of a small herd of 24 outside the park near the lake.

They were beautiful, horned creatures … I’ll give them that. In fact, I’d give them just about anything they wanted; even if they didn’t say please!

In that area of Kenya, the Buffalo is the most feared of all the animals … and they have Lions, Leopards, Elephants, and Rhinos.

By John (Pensacola)

May 26, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this

Great game today, but one question: Is Chipper even trying anymore? I keep watching for some kind of emotion from Chipper after he fails in the clutch (again and again it seems) but have yet to see any. Is he watching LaRoche a little too much these days!?! The way Chipper is dragging through this season I wouldn’t be suprised if he up and retired as soon as his contract is up. He sure looks like he’s just not interested anymore.

And for the record, I hope I’m wrong about all this and Chipper returns to form.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 26, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

yes, journalist bob, the cape buffalo is far too fierce and powerful for crows, but carolina lady might find the cape useful when dealing with glembo’s and such. it is said the cape’s skull is virtually bullet-proof. did you know the cape kills lions? best not to mess with the cape buffalo. jimmy smith’s cousin has a cape on stand-by if we need him. journalist jimmy smith has emphasized to cousin smith that the cape should not be boxed for shipment until we are absolutely certain we will require his services. this would be far more difficult than receiving an unexpected hartebeest. journalist bob, did you shoot the home video? that is most brave. perhaps you have been a journalist all along.

By David O'Brien

May 26, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman, couldn’t agree with you more on the in-game blog, but I do as I’m told when the big boss calls. I think the regular format is better, lets me introduce and expound on a topic that might not otherwise get covered, then you guys get to banter during the game, etc. But hey, as I said, I’m just the foot soldier.

By hk

May 26, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

… looks like all alone in 2nd place, 3 1/2 out of first !!

By old timer

May 26, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

The fascination with Juan Pierre, for those asking, is that a couple of years ago he was the best leadoff guy in the league. Didn’t have an arm then, either, but he was always getting on, driving in big runs whenever he got the chance, and known as a hard worker and good character guy. Nothing not to like, except for the arm. But now, he seems to have lost it. Will he get it back? I don’t know. Will Giles?

By HEAD COACH

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

Yea , I believe Cox when he says Reitsma is getting two days off. It’s more like two days to figure out the closer job is no longer his if he blows another game. Cox is right , McCann on the DL is really a blow to this team. Davies and McCann are major contributing players and they have to get healthy. Jeesh , those Cubbies are awful. Ramirez or Jack in the box pitching tomorrow , we have a chance to sweep these clowns. Giles is actually starting to draw a few more walks and getting on base consistently , good job gilly. Just an idea , would Carl Crawford help this offense and defense more than Giles as a leadoff hitter ? Go Bravos !

By Carolina Lady

May 26, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

Does anyone remember an incredibly thrilling game years back when ATL was in the West Division - the game was at Fulton Co Stadium, the Dodgers were about 6 runs ahead at the end of the top of the 9th; the Braves had either 1 or 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th and somehow scored 7 runs to win? What a game!!!

By brian

May 26, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

DOB and powers that be - I also like the old format. DOB brings up a very relevant topic and gives us insider info. I do like talking during the game and what makes the blog is DOB weighing in on our blogs - our good ones and our bad ones.

One thing I was impressed today with was how the Braves manufactured runs. Granted the Cubs gave us a lot of them, but we still took them. I am impressed with the comeback wins. Good call on Sting/Death Ray DOB - he looked great! Now if we could just find a leadoff hitter (and no, not Pierre, and I take back what I have posted about Gaithright).

By journalist jimmy smith

May 26, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

this in-game blog is not such a good idea, is it? journalist jimmy smith poses a few questions for consideration: what would a chad paronto bobblehead look like? if the doll were anatomically correct then there could be no neck from which to bobble. think about it. why do better restaurants serve their cheese sandwiches with pickle spears? why not dill chips? someone must know. how will bob find molasses candy in the 21st century? who will tell bob there is no molasses candy? why did sja return today? where has sja been? will there be a memorial day blog? ten minutes tops, dob.

By Adam Worth

May 26, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

Was truly shocked to find the Braves won today. Maybe John Schuerholz did a secret deal for the Angel’s rally monkey.

By brewerfaninATL

May 26, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

Great win Braves! Anytime the Cubs lose, I absolutely LOVE it! Also final, Brewers 6, Phillies 5 in 10 innings. Turnbow blows the save but Prince delivers a huge hit off Flash Gordon, nice perseverence by the Brew Crew! Now the Braves are in 2nd place all by themselves, only 3 1/2 behind the Mutts! Go Braves and root for the Brewers over the Phils too!!!!

By JJMB

May 26, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

Brewers suck and will suck to the end of time.

By Boomer

May 26, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Hey Brewer Fan, I think most of us Braves fans are big Brewer fans this weekend! Good win tonight for your guys against the Phils. I think there are probably lots of us pulling for the Marlins this weekend too. What’s going on with the Nationals? Are they improving that much or just having a good stretch? I believe they’ve won 7 straight.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 27, 2006 12:10 AM | Link to this

I agonized over having no shoes…till I saw DOB who had no brain!…GO METS!!!…

By Bob, journalist

May 27, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith, I’ve heard stories of the bullet-proof skull and lion kills … in fact, my friend Thagana speaks of both in the background of the video of the buffalo herd … as he cautioned not to get too close.

Lions didn’t seem to scare him much but elephants and especially buffalo were a different story.

Sorry Jimmy, I didn’t shoot the video. I’ve owned 5 video cameras, counting 2 that I gave the folks in Kenya … but I rarely shoot any video … it always seems to turn out bad … even when I remember to thke the lenscap off and activate the stablizers … just too much shaking and too little skill.

I did get up close and personal with the buffalo … while editing the video … much safer that way! I have carvings of Buffalo, Hippos, Lions, Warthogs, Zebras, Elephants, Cheetahs, Rhino, and Giraffes that were done by a family of wood carvers who live just outside the park … no Hatrebeest though.

It was definitely candy that was made from Mollases … how close we came to turning around that day and going back for more … goodness!

By Bob, journalist

May 27, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this

Hello My Lady and welcome back!

If memory serves, in the last inning of that game, after 2 were out … we had at least 3 batters who were down to their last strike!

By gotigers72

May 27, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this

The most dangerous animal in Africa, as far as dangerous to humans, are the hippos. They kill more humans than any other animal. Hippos also eat hartebeests for snacks, as do crocodiles.

The most dangerous reptile is the black mamba snake.

By hoho

May 27, 2006 01:20 AM | Link to this

the in game blog seemed fine to me, but then again i read it all after the fact. pretty funny in that regard. i guess DOB didn’t dig it. don’t blame him- seems like it’d get in the way of viewing the game and doing his thing as he usually does (baseball’s about consistency over the long-haul, probably true for those who cover the game and call the game). interesting with 2 lefties going the next 2 days (correct?). anyone think we’ll see any surprises in the line up? think laroche will see any at bats to start either game? (jordan did hit the ball hard, but out, today). does betemit or pena get a start? what d’y’all think? or rather- what d’y’all think bobby cox thinks? we’ll in about 12 hours or so.

By Eric

May 27, 2006 01:22 AM | Link to this

very true gotigers, with the Fierce snake, Inland Taipan and Brown snake kneck in kneck for most venemous on earth

By David

May 27, 2006 01:22 AM | Link to this

David, I thought Renteria made the game 5-4 in the 9th. If so, you need to fix the bottom of your article.

By Eric

May 27, 2006 01:25 AM | Link to this

I meant Taipan..not inland taipan (the fierce snakes other used name)

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2006 01:42 AM | Link to this

David, you are correct. Unfortunately, I think it’s too late to get it fixed. I contradicted myself, because higher in game story I had it right, when I said the sac fly brought in the last two runs.

Thanks for pointing it out, though.

By Marc

May 27, 2006 05:19 AM | Link to this

It’s amazing to me that the Braves have no power pitcher out of the bullpen. How is that possible. In fact besides Smoltz, (who isn’t really blowing people away any more), the Braves have no power pitchers. This is a huge reason why the Braves don’t win in the playoffs, and have struggled this year. To many balls are put in play. If you look at any good team, they have at least two or more power pitchers. The Whitesox have Contreras, Jenks, the Yankees have Johnson, Farnsworth, and Rivera, the Redsox have Schilling, Beckett, and Papelbon, the Mets have Pedro, and Wagner, etc. Why is it that JS never gets these guys. I can’t understand it, you have to have a couple guys on your team that can strike guys out. year after year we are stuck with guys like Horacio, Chuck James, Thomson, Reitsma. The Braves need some quality power guys, I know these guys don’t grow on trees, but other teams seem to come up with them. I think it is time to draft some guys like this.

Another thing the Braves have seemed to lack the last few years is an offensive player to carry the load. I know everyone will say Andruw, and yes last year for a time he did somewhat carry the team. But Andruw is also wildly inconsistent and prone to long slumps. Just look at the other winning teams. The Yankees, Jeter, and Rodrigues, The Cardinals, Pujols, the Giants, Bonds, The Phillies have Utley, Howard, and Burrell, the Whitesox have Thome and Konerko, the Mets have Delgado and Wright. The Braves ar estuck with an aging Chipper, who has lost his power, guys like Langerhans, and Laroach. Mccann has stepped up, but to this point lacks true power. To me the Braves really need that go to consistent force in the lineup. That coupled with the fact that they lack power arms in the rotation and the bullpen is a problem. If the Braves win the division this year, it will be amazing. However, can the Braves win a round in the playoffs with an anemic offense, and no power on the pitching staff. I hope that there is something JS can do to resolve this now, and in the future. I just can’t understand the resistence to getting these types of guys. Just some thoughts, what doeas anyone think. Good win.

By Joe Roman

May 27, 2006 08:04 AM | Link to this

DOB, I figured it was the ‘voice from on high’. That’s showbiz. The now-retired “Curse of the Bambino” was nothing compared to whatever ails the Cubs. The gods of baseball must have sit up nights to figure out a way for them to lose yesterday’s game. No matter what they do, expensive free-agents, nurturing their farm system, reward iconic players or making human sacrifices to the shrine of Harry Carey, NOTHING WORKS!! Y’all have any theories?

By Joe Roman

May 27, 2006 08:21 AM | Link to this

DOB-One more thing. Your level of responsiveness on this blog is as good as it gets. In a way, I envy you. I wish this technology had existed when I was writing. I had a talkshow for a while, but I think blogs are better because they help the ol’ writing chops. You are doing a fine job.

By Carolina Lady

May 27, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Good morning, Bob! Thank you! Just responding to your 1:03am post: “If memory serves, in the last inning of that game, after 2 were out … we had at least 3 batters who were down to their last strike!”

I think you’re right. It was a situation where any tiny little mistake would have sunk the ship - and each pitch count seemed to get tighter and tighter. I seem to recall that it was all station-to-station play, maybe a stolen base somewhere in there, but WOW!!! I’ve never seen anything like it since! Do you recall the year, any of the players? (It is said that the first thing to go is your memory - and all I can remember of the time period is that we were in the West Div. and heated rivals with the Dodgers!)

By Bobbymahlon

May 27, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this

Ok it’s time to put a fistbaseman’s glove on Kelley Johnson and bring him up. He is currently batting 423 down at Richmond. He is a former shortstop and now leftfielder so he could probably make the switch to first without too much trouble.You know what happened last year when we brought up some promising rookies like him after he got over his slump.

By Bobbymahlon

May 27, 2006 10:42 AM | Link to this

What in the world was McCann doing running figure eights before the game that is one of the worst things he could do on a tender ankle. Let it get well before he trys something like that.Oh well it’s water over the damm now.

By Jim

May 27, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this

Marc,

Power arms: Johnson is old and has an ERA over 6 right now. Martinez is still a great pitcher, but he rarely breaks 90 anymore, Schilling still has his good games but is also more hittable in many others, Wagner has certainly not been sure thing out of the pen this year, and even Rivera is a bit more hittable than in the past.

Take Burrell out of your list of consistent hitters— he is very streaky. Rodriguez draws the ire of the NY fan and media for his lack of production in the clutch. Bonds is playing on bad legs and is not the player he was two years ago.

This said the Braves do need to be more patient and work the count like Renteria, McCann, (and Kelly Johnson) to set up more scoring opportunities and get into the bullpen faster.

By Bobbymahlon

May 27, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

Have Dave tell me what you think of Salty. He is currently hitting 206 much like he did in spring traing sprinkled in with a few home runs. Is he overated like Andy Marte ? I have only seen him on TV and it appears he has a nice swing but do you think he will hit with a decent average?

By Miranda

May 27, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

Salty has been VERY streaky… he’ll go 0-12 then finally bump up his avg a tad and then go 0-9 etc. Wednesday I went up to Pearl and he got a couple hits which brought him out of an 0-8. Then Thursday night he went 0-3 again

By HEAD COACH

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

Marc you make some good points. However , with the advance of technology , scouting , video and hitters parks the scales have tipped in favor of the hitters. Basically , this isnt the game of baseball we saw years ago. Its a hitters paradise geared for offense and power pitchers are hard pressed to keep up with the evolution of the game. I admit and agree a power closer is still an effective option if only for one inning ( the ninth). Cox has always kept the emphasis on pitchers who keep the ball down in the zone and who can paint the corners with strikes. Atlanta has that quality in Smoltz , Hudson , Thomson , Davies and Sosa. Ramirez hasnt figured out how to keep the ball down and gives up way to many homeruns. A 162 game marathon is unique in baseball , its the reason we keep winning the division with quality pitching , great defense up the middle and timely hitting. I still think Giles isnt the answer for the leadoff hitter ,Ray or Paronto might be the answer to the closer question. Cox has got to find a way to get Betemits bat in the line up everyday. He is capable of being the player that Renteria already is. Chipper Jones can still hit but his range at third is limited due to his repeated leg injurys. The jury is still out on this team and the fat lady better go sit down because this team may just pull together if they can get healthy and hitting on all eight cylinders. Go Bravos !!!!

By Joe Roman

May 27, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

In a bullpen context, “power pitchers” are not necessarily needed. Diversity is what matters. A set of relievers with different stuff, different velocities and variety of velocities, deliveries etc. is the best way to keep hitters off balance and uncertain in late innings. By this criteria, the Braves bullpen is good and looking better all the time. Like I said earlier, this where the smarts of the G.M. shows the most. Look for ‘closer-by-committee’ for now, and my money is on Ken Ray emerging as da man some time in June. He can put it anywhere with all kinds of movement.

By Marc

May 27, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

Jim, Head Coach…I realize some of the guys I mentioned are struggling now, but look at this traditioanlly. When the Diamondbacks won the World Series they had Schilling and Johnson, when the Mets made the World Series they had Pedro leading the way. When the Yankees were there they had Clemens, the Astros did to. I am not saying that these guys can’t melt down to, or that they don;t get old. What I am saying is you need guys that can come in and dominate, get strikeouts when neede. The more a ball is put in play the more there is a chance for a bloop hit, an error, etc. As for the hitters Andruw is not that old and wildly inconsistent, maybe Mccann develops the power to really take over like Piazza. What I feel is lacking on this team is a couple of true pwer arms, and a go to dominant force on offense. We may very well win the division again, but the lack of power arms and dominant bat will leave the Braves golfing after the first round. And I am not suggesting that JS should snap his fingers and get Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willlis, and Joe Nathan. But I think it is time for him to try, recognize that guys like Horacio, Reeksma, chuck James, Remlinger, Cormier, these guys don’t get it done in the big time.

By Marc

May 27, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Joe…I agree with you that having a mix of different pitchers in the bullpen is good. However, I think for the eighth and ninth innings it is important to have guys that can strike hitters out. Th eless a ball ia put in play the better. Look at Reeksma’s ERA, he rarely strikes guys out, hence sometimes he goes through periods where every ball hit off him finds a hole, or the guys make errors. Look at the Whitesox last year, they had Contreras, and then Jenks dominating with 100 mile per hour heater. Look at the Yankees when Rivera came in, 3 strikes your out., when the Angels won, K-rod shut them mowed them down. Look at Papelbon, the guy has 17 saves in a row, he isn’t doing this by getting guys to ground out, he is averaging about a strikeout an inning. Th eBraves need to start drafting guys like Peavy and Webb. And when tehy do get a guy like that they need to believe in them, and develop them. Capellan was a guy like that, for what ever reason the Braves organization looses interest in these guys, for whatever reason. The organization just doen’t seem to develop power arms well, I think they need to improve in this area. I love the Braves, and want them to win so bad. I only try to see what mighnt help improve the team, I am not unrealistic, I realize these things are easier said then done. I just think these are neccessary changes that need to be made so this team can advance in the postseason.

By Fat Lady

May 27, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

Would y’all make up your minds??? I’m gonna sing - I’m NOT going to sing - I’m gonna sing….. would somebody get me a chocolate shake, please?

By Nate Raymond

May 27, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

I heard that Greg Maddux is on the trade block. I think we need to get him back. Then we could move one of our starters into the bullpen. Betemit needs to play 3rd base and chippers to first and say good buy to laroche. I only watch the braves on tbs. I hope they stay on tbs. I live in Maine and it sucks only seeing them for a short amount of time. Fox sucks.

By Del

May 27, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

I sure hope that all these men we are leaving on base in scoring position don’t come back to bite us later in the game.

Anybody else had the thought that Pena might be a better backup catcher than Pratt?

Diaz sure doesn’t look comfortable at the plate today.

I cann’t help but feel that Chipper has some physical problems we don’t know about. He has become a singles hitter, and quite frequently doesn’t do anything but slap at the ball. He just doesn’t look like a healthy Chipper with a full power seing !

By Carolina Lady

May 27, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Del, I’ve had that same thought about Chipper. If you watch the expression on his face, it seems that something with him is just not right. He isn’t moving the same, either.

By MBATL

May 27, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Del, I was just thinking the same thing about Pena. Don’t really know his game, but he looks good. The rap seems to be that he can’t hit, but can Pratt?

Regarding Chipper, I wish AJ would take the same approach. CJ is not a bigtime power hitter, but a .300 hitter who drives in runs and hits hr’s when he catches the ball right; he hits mistakes out of the park but can handle good pitches too. I think he looks fine.

Great job by Ramirez (don’t know if he’s done yet or not, but I would think so). Not facing the ‘27 Yanks, but except for a “swinging bunt” single in the first and some good small ball by the Cubbies, he’d have a shutout going. Encouraging!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 27, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

chipper no longer catches the chopper. the chopper now passes right by chipper.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 27, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith is reminded of home with discussion of rhinos and the black mamba. it is best to mess with neither. there are many fierce animals that would make a snack of the hartebeest - but few that can keep up with the hartebeest when wishes to avoid being eaten. now, famous canadian relief pitcher has the first out. is he good for two more?

By Jim

May 27, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Ray today, 4 batters, 10 pitches, 7 strikes. Very typical of how efficient with his pithes he has been and how he doesn’t beat himself by walking people.

Now the tension begins— Reitsma to close out a 1 run game.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 27, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

base hit! base hit! get reitsma out of the game!

By Chop Chop

May 27, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Haha.

Bobby pulls Reitsma for a lefty (Remlinger) who really isn’t that great against lefties.

I think the leash Bobby has Reitsma on is really a choke chain.

Let’s hope Remlinger doesn’t choke.

By Jim

May 27, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Bobby!!

Don’t we need all the defense we can get with a 1 run lead? Why not pinch hit WB for Jordan and put LaRoche in for defense in the 9th? With 2 out and none on our chances of getting another run were small and if the game is tied we could use WB as a pinch hitter later on.

By journalist jimmy smtih

May 27, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

shoulda used paronto …

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

May 27, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Lord knows I don’t like Reitsma as the closer but I think Bobby is making a mistake by the way he is handling him. If you are going to stick with him then do it. I don’t think its right to pull him the second he gets in trouble. How is that helping his confidence? Whatever confidence he would have by Bobby sticking with him is blown by him pulling him as soon as he lets a baserunner on. I know I would have a terrible time trying to pitch under those conditions.

By Chop Chop

May 27, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Braves win.

Remlinger was a little shaky, but he got the job done.

By MBATL

May 27, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

I think it’s clear that we’re now “closer by committee.” Reitsma will get the chance, but not the confidence of a Wagner (?) or Soriano. Plus, J Jones was batting less than .100 against lefties, over .300 against righties, so the move probably made sense even though Jones got a hit.

Nice pickup by Chipper on that short-hop chopper in the 9th!

Great game…HUGE win. If Ramirez comes on strong, look out. And if Smoltz can get it done tomorrow, a 6-3 road trip - and we’re done with the West Coast - would be great.

By Miles

May 27, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

Smoltz goes up against a minor league pitcher since Kerry Wood got pushed back another day. A win tomorrow gives us a 6-3 road trip…not bad at all.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 27, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

mbatl, one chopper in three … but you are right, it was a nice play. good that he made that since the cubs followed with two hits. now, cheese … when cheese ages is that good? how about third basemen? good, bad? now, hamstring … whoever fixed ramirez did a good job. now, memorial day weekend - happy memorial day to all from journalist jimmy smith. cheese, root beer, and cordele watermelons for everyone!

By MBATL

May 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

‘course I want to argue, journalist jimmy, but like you probably, time to go to work trying to have fun. Happy Memorial Day to you and all…

By VT

May 27, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

On Pena: the rap in the past has been his defense. Last year, he hit well at Richmond but not very well in Atlanta. This year, he stopped switch hitting and the transition has been rough.

Pratt was brought in as someone who knows the role of backup — he knows that he will never be an everyday catcher at this point in his career. He knows the ropes, which is supposed to help McCann. This is the theory at least. In terms of what Pratt has delivered when he has played, he hasn’t contributed much offense. In terms of defense, he throws out runners about as frequently as Mike Piazza. Whether he has been helpful to McCann is a chemistry question — I wonder if DOB might have any insight? Until McCann is ready to play again, the issue is moot.

Speaking of Mike Piazza — why does the official scorer credit base runners with steals against him? I think having Piazza behind the plate should be considered “defensive indifference”.

By Carolina Lady

May 27, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

Happy Memorial Day to everyone! Jimmy, that cold watermelon sounds wonderful!! :-))

By Carolina Lady

May 27, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

My last post was shorted for some reason. (?)

I wanted to tell all the veterans who have served this country THANK YOU! Salute!

By TennesseePaul

May 27, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

* GO BRAVES!!!!*

Let’s sweep ‘em tomorrow boys!

Things are looking real promissing. If Sosa and Ramirez pitch this way the rest of the season, we are going to be in a prime situation to make a trade for a bat or a closer or something. But, on that closer note, I read on mlb.com that Cox was leaning to using both the Death Ray and Reitsma. That might not be a bad idea. Reitsma has been alright lately at getting 2 outs in the ninth. That third out has been the problem, but with the addition of the Death Ray, we might must be able to pull this out. (Reitsma is still dead to me, a trade would not be a disappointment.)

Hudson, Smoltz, Thomson, Sosa, Ramirez, Davies, and James with Hampton on the DL. That’s a lot of starting pitching. And supposedly we have about $6 million to play with. We could see something great this year. All we need now is a private owner. I’m still keeping my fingers crossed on that… makes it hard to type.

By Del

May 27, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

Robert(Justice is the Best) … I agree re. Reitsma. If CR is ever going to be a contributor in the bullpen, then Bobby (and us fans) is going to have to bite the bullit and let him try to get out of his own jams. This way (meaning like today), CR will be toast by July 4th. At least, that is the way I see it. I guess the other thing I would do, would be to never use him for a while in the 9th.

By BACHT

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

Hey SouthernJackAss $@#!rew you and your stupid Mets. Go into a corner and sneeze hard, maybe your brain will come out of your nose you stupid dumb a$$ wipe. It is just a matter of time before we see the Bravos in first place. Go Braves. By the way I think DOB is doing a fair job, not too great but OK.

By Joe Roman

May 27, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

For my money, the only intriging starter potentially on the block is Willis. He’s locked up until 2009 for not outrageous money. Maddux will not come into the fold for the same reason the Braves didn’t re-sign him. He’s way too expensive. Plus, I sort of like him stewing in the juices of mediocrity with the Cubbies. I’ve always supported players being paid big money, but I think many free-agents are fools to go from playing on a winner with people they know and like to go into a situation that is a crapshoot at best. Look at Maddux, for example. Conservatively, he must have a net worth of 50, 60 million. Somebody explain to me how another ten million or so is going to better “provide for his family”? Just because someone has talent doesn’t mean he has brains. Even guys like doggie get manipulated by their agents so that agent can get a bigger commission. If you were a well-paid executive chef at a four-star restaurant, and a headhunter offered you a big raise to cook at a Cracker Barrel, would you take it? Marc, I have to disagree. a reliever who is a strike out pitcher is also more likely to throw gopher balls. Great junk is better. It fools hitters and induces ground balls. Guys like Sutter and Smoltz had good heaters, but it was their split-fingers and nasty breaking pitches that got people out and saved games. Look at the Mets and tell me Billy Wagner is worth ten mil a season. He’s already proven he isn’t, and it’s only the end of may.

By ernesto

May 27, 2006 07:09 PM | Link to this

I’d rather see CR be toast by July 4th than the Bravos chances. I think Bobby is being more than generous giving Reitsma the opportunity to prove himself, but he’s already proven he can’t get out of the holes he digs himself, so what exactly would you like to see him work on? He’s not a strike out pitcher and when he gets guys on, it’s trouble. He’s simply not a lights out guy. I’m feeling much better that he’s on a short leash.

By David O'Brien

May 27, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

Hey BACHT, why don’t you go with Southern JA _ go anywhere but here.

Actually, Southern JA’s OK, because he’s a joke who makes us laugh. You? You’re just bitter.

OK, to a few of the questions from real bloggers.

I didn’t have time to get on today, seemed to get caught up in a bunch of stuff here and trying to get done early because I found out last night than Bobby Bare’s playing here tonight.

Bobby Sr. (71) and Bobby Jr. both playing at a small place in Chicago. For those unfamiliar, Bare (Sr.) was a great country star back in the day, and his son just produced his dad’s first album in about 15 years last year, and it’s a KILLER album. This old dude hung and played with Waylon, Tom T. Hall, all of the boys.

When I told Bobby Cox that Bobby Bare was playing tonight, Bobby (Cox) got all excited. He’d probably go if he didn’t have so many family and friends in town. They came to throw him a surprise party for his 65th.

Anyway, it’s gonna be a great show. The man is real country. Bare has an incredible voice that’s so lived-in, so real.

As for today’s game, story is obviously all about Ramirez, but how ‘bout Giles finally coming up big in a clutch situation? Huge development.

Ramirez was simply outstanding. keep in mind, Cubs are pathetic against lefties, below .190 for the year. (Without D. Lee they’re pathetic against everyone, really, but particularly lefties).

Still, Ramirez looked very good. Good command, no walks, and the hammy held up fine when he scored from second (Smoltz kidded him about running in slow motion, but Ramirez said he wasn’t protecting the hammy when I asked him. “I’m just slow,” he said). And Horacio’s two defensive plays covering first … wow.

Bobby’s finally doing the right thing at closer, using matchups, etc, even though he won’t come out and say Ray is a co-closer. That’s what it looks like to me. In-game entertainment needs to get crackin’ on a Death Ray entrance. I love the Darth Vader them someone mentioned yesterday. Great stuff. The Braves PR guy liked it when I told him that idea today, too.

Wondering why Rem came in to face Jones with Cedeno up after him? Check this out:

Jacque Jones was batting .319 against right-handers and .083 against lefties before Saturday, and Cedeno was batting .328 against righties and .140 against lefties. Reitsma has allowed a staff-worst .372 average by lefty hitters.

‘Nuff said.

As for Salty, no, I’d never say this early he’s overrated. Waaaay too early for that. He’ll be damn good, I’m pretty certain. Just a way talented kid, still so young. He’ll be a stud before long, but it might be a couple more years. Who knows? Can never tell.

McCann was doing figure-8s yesterday (someone asked why in blog) because that’s only way Braves knew to be sure if he’d be able to play. They didn’t want him playing if he could only run straight ahead and couldn’t do the other things necessary to play. And they didn’t want to be short-handed with him on roster another week or two trying to heal. So they DL’d him.

It might cost him an All-Star berth, missing three weeks (that’s what it’ll be, basically, because they pinch-hit him and can’t retro the DL assignment back to Sunday, only to Wdnesday)

he’ll still have All-Star worthy numbers, but won’t be on the batting leaders and others because he won’t have enough at-bats at the time when fans and others are voting and glancing at the leaders to get some idea who should be on team.

OK, that’s it. Gonna go to hotel and get ready to see some good music.

Oh, I got the Cash CD last night. It’s outstanding. And so is Van Hunt’s new one, outstanding retro, 70s-sounding soul/R&B. And Jolie Holland’s new one. She’s like Billie Holliday crossed with, say, Gillian Welch (for those of you who that means anything to. To others, sorry to ramble about off-the-beaten-path music.

Later

By David O'Brien

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

OH, and to the cool-as* blogger who burned me a copy of the Raconteurs CD _ you’re right, it’s terrific.

By HEAD COACH

May 27, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

Geesh , Horam looked good today , really good. When Davies comes back it gives us six starters and the horses to go the distance. Marc I understand completely what your concern is , but we have John Smoltz and he is when healthy as lights out a pitcher in the playoffs as anybody. Another power arm wouldnt hurt but JS may not have the money too spare. I’d trade Thomson and go after Willis. Yea , you guys got it right already. Reitsma is on a very short leash. you may or may not agree with Bobby Cox , but he is putting the screws to Reitsma in the hope that he either responds or implodes. I say the kid is about to lose the closer job altogether , he just doesnt have the mental or emotional mix for a closer. Chipper looks good and then looks awful in the field , I think he is playing hurt , hope I’m wrong , but his power stroke is nonexistent. Ive heard rumors in the chatrooms the Padres and one other team have inquired as to the availabily of Betemit , but thats just a rumor , nothing more. We are gonna miss McCann , but who else could bring up a catcher like Breyan Pena and plug him right in , Gosh I luv the scouting department , they just keep growing major league talent season after season. Bust out the brooms , Smoltzy is on the mound tomorrow. Go Bravos !!! P.S. the fat lady can have a dozen shakes if we keep playing like this.

By Woogidy

May 27, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

Yeserday’s head line CUBS THROW ANOTHER ONE IN THE DEMPSTER , Today’s headline, THE HORACIO SHOW ACTS OUT A WIN I was at wrigley for the 2 games and Braves win in exciting fashion. It was awesome, my hotel was basicall next door to the Braves hotel, and I got to see a lot of players Today! Andruw rocks, signed autographs for 5 min. or so. Saw McCann w/ Pete Orr walking the streets after the game going out on the town. Pretty cool stuff. Anyways, Had a blast the last 2 days. Hopefully Smoltz can make it a sweep! PEACE…

By Woogidy

May 27, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

Oh yea, how about a starter(Thomson, Horam) to Texas for Francisco Cordero? He needs a fresh start and his May ERA is 2.92. He’s been a successful closer before.

By BACHT

May 27, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB why don’t you join Southern J A$$ and blow your nose too, the only different is nothing will come out thru your nose because you sound like you have no brain under your skull. I thought you were doing a fair job. My BAD!

By Del

May 27, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this

Ernesto … You misunderstand, I am not a CR lover. If it were up to me, I would have released him weeks ago. But since it isn’t up to me, I was just trying to point out that the only way Bobby is finally going to realize that CR is not a closer is to let CR stew in his own juices by trying to get out of the jams he himse;f has created. Pulling him after a single hit does not convince Bobby he cann’t do the job. This could go on for the balance of the season, and come Nov Braves mgmt will still be in a quandry about what to do with Mr CR. Now that would be disgusting !! I say let him fall on his face again for a few weeks and maybe Bobby will finally convince himself of the obvious. Just my thoughts.

By brian

May 27, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB-

Any insight as to why hudson is now listed on ESPN’s rumor mill? It says that if the Braves fall out of contention he will be traded. Why now is this mentioned when the Braves have closed to 3.5 back and are playing well. Where do they get their info from?

If he is traded they better get Youkilis and Hansen for him or a comparable package. Blue Jays for Rios and a top pitching prospect, Crawford and a pitching prospect, etc.

By brian

May 27, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB-

Any insight as to why hudson is now listed on ESPN’s rumor mill? It says that if the Braves fall out of contention he will be traded. Why now is this mentioned when the Braves have closed to 3.5 back and are playing well. Where do they get their info from?

If he is traded they better get Youkilis and Hansen for him or a comparable package. Blue Jays for Rios and a top pitching prospect, Crawford and a pitching prospect, etc.

Having a rotation of Smoltz, Thomson, Sosa, Ramirez, and James is risky to say the least.

By ernesto

May 27, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

Del, I don’t think anyone needs the point proven that Reits just ain’t the man. BC is loyal and playing the hand he’s dealt. Everyone says CR has nasty stuff and it’s just a matter of time before he’s dominant. Fine. But then again, he’s had his share, and then some, of not getting it done. I’m less worried about his pysche than I am about W’s and L’s. Everytime Bobby pulls the early hook I’m stoked. Actually, maybe it’s help CR, let’s see if he can rise to the occasion.

By old timer

May 27, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

The thing about Chipper might be just wear and tear. Remember Will Clark? At the plate, he was so much like Chipper is from the left side. When Clark got older he became more of a singles hitter. He wasn’t really injured, but just not as strong as he had been earlier in his career. Chipper has had a lot of ailments the past few years and they could just be taking a toll even when he doesn’t have any new injury. By the way, whoever said recently that Chipper never goes yard against top pitchers is dead wrong. He has taken pretty much all the nasty boys deep. Look it up.

By Miles

May 27, 2006 11:49 PM | Link to this

The Hudson rumor is complete BS. ESPN got their info from a New York Post columnist who was just speculating on who the Yankees could acquire at the trade deadline. The guy had no sources or anything, he just pulled names out of a straw hat.

By old timer

May 28, 2006 12:33 AM | Link to this

Is Chipper going to wind up in Cooperstown? I think he would have a real good shot if so many guys of his generation hadn’t been juiced. But will a .300 average and 400 HRs be enough? Murphy can’t get in with 398 HRs, but maybe it’s his batting average that’s keeping him out.

By Jerald Holcombe

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

By David O’Brien

May 26, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

Phat Bat Boy, good thing you’re not a GM. That’s the worst idea I’ve heard in quite a while.

You want to trade for Juan Pierre, who is having a season that makes Marcus Giles look like Rickey Henderson. Pierre, who’s in his second consecutive season of steeeeep decline, but you believe, unlike the scouts and a certain manager, that he can turn it around? Just flick the switch and be the old Pierre? Good logic.

Don’t be so quick to turn your back o the idea DOB. First off, we know that Giles is no leadoff man, so offensively, it should help to get him outta that role. Secondly, Pierre has tons of speed and you can’t teach that, so he becomes a threat. Thirdly, he could be had cheaply because the Cubs may want to dump his contract. To me, it’s a win-win because we may not have to give up very much. I like the idea. I don’t necessarily think that the Braves are looking to get a leadoff hitter, but you never know.

By Bob, journalist

May 28, 2006 01:02 AM | Link to this

My Lady … It’s good to know that the first thing to go is the memory … I couldn’t remember what it was!

I really don’t remember but for some reason, it seems like it was a nationally televised game.

Bobby’s recent comment about great games was priceless … don’t memember the quote but the message was “Today’s was a great game … we’ve been having too many great ganes lately”

By Andy

May 28, 2006 02:04 AM | Link to this

I hope no one goes off on me—but I feel I need to say this—-Cox has to stop using ray so much—-I know he doesn’t have any other better option—-BUT—-I really believe he’s doing the I’ll use retisma till he becomes reeksma kind of thing. I think the braves will have a better bulpen by the time the end of the season comes—hopefuly for the postseason—-still—I think Ray is going to be an important part—-he can’t keep pitching every single game. Maybe if the offense hits we can use someone else. Oh yeah that reminds me—the braves of the past were always like “wooo a new pitcher we hav’nt seen…pitches alot like warn spahn.” I mean the royals could bring up a single A guy and if the Braves never faced him—he could definetly go scorless thur the first two turns of the batting order. Hopefuly having said that they will chase this new guy by the second inning. A blow out is needed. I live in LA and get to watch the dodgers as well—-they are on fire lately——never seen a team crush another team like they did the Angles last weekend. Man that was butal—37-7 in three games and it was not even that close—-with Normar doing his Albert P. impression—-and everyone hitting—-even Furcal—-the dodgers are for real—esp. while they are hot like this. The braves have to score at least 5 runs a game to be in the game with these guys. Who knows—maybe we’ll shut them out three games——I’ll be rooting for Smotlz(like everyone)—Hey a 6-3 road trip—pretty freaking good. But again that new pitcher scares me—-Like those old Monteral uniforms—we just can’t seem to beat them.

By Jerald Holcombe

May 28, 2006 02:23 AM | Link to this

As previously stated, Pena was brought up last year because of his bat. However, there was a game that I remember where, our opponent found out that Pena had less of a chance at throwing out runners than Piazza. they ran all over the place and Pena was helpless. Right after that, McCann was brought up from AA and Pena sent down to Richmond.

In regards to Chipper, what is all the commotion about. Chipper has never claime to be a home run hitter. He has always said that he would prefer to hit .300 and that is what he is doing with a slugging pct around .450. And his defense is not hurting him at all. If it were, you would see Betemit in for defense in the late innings. BTW, Betemit has stated that he wouldn’t be opposed to a switch to first base. IMO, it would be huge to get a switch-hitter of Betemit’s calibre playing first base. No more platooning and better offense.

And as for Salty being a great player in the future, I can only say that I don’t that McCann will be going anywhere. The Braves might be better served if they traded him. They know what they have in McCann but there is no guarantee that Salty will pan out. Just a thought.

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

The Hudson rumor is just that, a rumor based on 2-plus-2: IF the Braves fall out of the race, THEN he’s available if price is right. That’s all, and it means nothing. Because, 1. When have the Braves fallen out of the race and started trading away players in July, and 2. Well, there is no need for 2, and I forgot what it was going to be. The Braves are going to be in the thick of the race, and they aren’t trading away one of their aces if they’re in the thick of the race.

Stop fretting. That’s just one guy throwing out a rumor, something a scout mentioned to him off-hand about who might come July. That’s it. Nothing more. People worry too much about a rumor that’s printed in one place, that maybe a guy debated whether to even include in his story or roundup or whatever, then all of a sudden ESPN picks up the rumor and it becomes “widespread.” It’s a new day in baseball rumoring because of internet outlets, etc,, and that part of it’s not good.

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Meant to say “who might come available in July”

And this is the end of the Hudson rumor, officially. Doesn’t matter if it sits on that stupid ESPN rumor site for a month, it ends here until we hear something reliable, other than one columnist purely speculating. That’s not even a real rumor.

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

BACHT, thanks for the evaluation. Means a lot coming from you.

Heach coach, It’s ironic the timing of you mentioning how bad Chipper looked in the field. Ironic because both Horacio Ramirez and Bobby Cox went out of their way to mention Chipper for spearheading the great defensive effort yesterday.

That’s not me saying it, just them offering it unsolicted. And from Bobby, who usually doesn’t go out of his way to praise Chipper’s defense, it was unusual. So for you to say he looked so bad you wondered if he was hurt … just struck me as odd, coming on the heels of those two guys praising him after the game.

Also, did you forget he had four hits in the game at San Diego a few days ago? I know they were singles, but they were hits and at least three were line drives, if I remember correctly.

The guys who aren’t doing much offensively, at least in my list, are topped by B.J., Langerhans, Giles (until yesterday’s two-run double he’d been hitting about .140 with RISP), and Francoeur on the road (at home he’s the Braves’ best hitter, on the road he’s again been almost a non-factor).

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

Just had to read this again and chuckle, especially over the indigity from BACHT after I actually had the gall to respond to this.

YOU WROTE: “… By the way I think DOB is doing a fair job, not too great but OK.”

You actually thought I should take this how, as a compliment? Are you completely gone, dude? This isn’t anything but an insult to someone who’s not trying to do an “OK” job but a good one. Or maybe you simply strive for OK and consider that evaluation a solid one in your own life.

So ,next time someone tells you at your job that you’re doing OK, not great but OK, let me know how you feel.

And thanks for reading every word here, by the way. Every. Single. Word.

Why waste your time with this “OK, not great” stuff, my man? Nothing better out there but mediocrity?

By David

May 28, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

David, does the clubhouse seem to be real relaxed now since they are pretty close to catching back even with the mets? Funny watching the in-game interview with Smoltz on fox. While you see Huddy in the background throwing popcorn at him. I know its been a long stretch of games with just one day off. I think their next “break” is June 12.

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 11:37 AM | Link to this

Am I the only one sick and tired of the Mets and Yankees and their fans delusions? They seem to think they can pick up anybody from any team-anytime. Why? I guess they think the whole world is their farm system. I feel the same way about the ESPN rumor mill. Have those guys even heard of responsible, professional journalism? They come off like some forty-year-old fantasy baseball nerd who lives in his parents’ basement. If the Braves fall out of contention?!!!! That’s like saying if the sky turns yellow and the grass turns blue. Those people really need to get a life, but what can you expect from an outfit that devotes hours to insufferably boring programming every time anybody remotely associated with the NFL so much as hiccups?

By Miranda

May 28, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

DOB… I think you’re doing GREAT!

By Penn

May 28, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

I have a baseball rule qustion:

There are runners on first and second with one out. The batter hits a ball which is caught by the right fielder. Mistakenly thinking it was the third out he turns and tosses it into the stands.

Question: How many bases can the runners advance?

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

By the way, sportslinedotcom was reporting the Hudson rumor as well. However, they did say that The New York Post was reporting it. In other words, they didn’t verify it, they were just reporting that they were reporting it. Make sense? Anyways, Go get ‘em Smoltzie! SWEEEEEEEP the Cubbies. Oh yea, DOB don’t worry about what these chotches think about the work you do. The Majority of us think you do an excellent job. How was the Bobby Bare show last night? gotta go.

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman, to your 11:37 am post, I say AMEN! I don’t even bother to turn to ESPN anymore; haven’t in a long time. They think they are the ‘final word’ on anything sports, but are just spouting their own (flawed, often predjudiced) opinions. Can’t stand them and their agenda and so avoid them. I also noticed that since I removed them from my world that my Tums bill decreased! :-)))

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

Thank you, Carolina lady. I want to have your children.

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this

:-))) Joe, I have many children, mostly 4-footed, all spoiled. Oh, and a daughter. Couldn’t part with a one of them!

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

An interesting link from the Braves site! Sure wish I could attend!

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

Took a cnoe down the Whiskey Chitto in southwest Louisiana, yesterday, enjoying a nice day with friends and our coolers full of adult beverages, so I missed out on the game, but I’m glad to see HoRam back on the mound contributing to this squad.

His coming to form gives the Braves so many options when it comes to making moves before or at the trade deadline. Something will have to give - HoRam, Thomson, Davies… teams in contention will want one of ‘em, and if they all hold up, the Braves can afford to deal one of ‘em for one of our needs….(my order of importance, only)

1. A legitimate closer

2. A pure hits-for-high-average bat (either at an outfield spot or 1B (not there are many guys who fit this role that’ll be available)

3. A veteran outfielder if we decide that Langerhans won’t be clutch, just yet (I believe in the guy and like his long-term future with us, but maybe it’s too soon to expect too much from him now).

I’m thrilled to see Bobby Cox treating the closer’s role like he’d treat any other bullpen role. YES!! Go with the matchups… go with the numbers! It’s so simple, makes so much sense, it’s BRILLIANT! Funny that nobody’s really taken owneship of such an idea, before, but damn it, that’s what he needs to do! It’s been successful two games in a row (against a demoralized Cubs squad, but still…) so stick with it!

We’re 3.5 games back, and frankly, the bullpen has been what’s kept us from being tied or ahead of the Mets, thus far… making a splash with a trade in the ‘pen or using what we have in a proper manner would make all the difference.

GO GET ‘EM SMOLTZIE!! It’d be nice if the bats would come alive so we could pull him after five or six and give the guy a break. I hate seeing his pitch counts getting so high so early in the year. I just can’t lose that visual of his bruised and battered back and shoulder when we were faced with the possibility of going to a deciding game five last postseason - knowing he was unavailable. That’s what we moved him to the rotation to be for us - that must-win starter we’d lacked in past Octobers. Like my friend and comedian Killer Beaz says… “Save Up!!! Save up those innings so we can call on Smoltz to win those “must-win” games in October.

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

try a “canoe” down the Whiskey Chitto…

My bad.

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

Great point, Ron Roberts!. It’s always seemed a bit absurd to me that situations have to be manufactured just so some pitcher who has been designated THE CLOSER can get the glory. In the ninth inning with a lead of three or less, I say go with the match-ups. I don’t care if a guy only throws one pitch. Why should a manager tie his pitching staff in knots just so some guy can claim a title. Using Remlinger yesterday was perfect. Why should a righty face a lefty or vice-versa just because some guy is a Closer?

By Dirty Dawg

May 28, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

You’re so right about the rumor guys. New York - and that particularly includes ESPN - sports guys’ view of the country is like the New Yorker illustration of all those years ago - basically, everything starts and ends with them. The Yankees need a pitcher, no problem, they’ll conjure up some scenario and write about it…The Mets get off to a fast start and the race is over. Every discussion - including their former GM (now on ESPN) that was fired for just this kind of ‘getting their hopes up only to fail’ - talks about all the Mets need is another quality starter and they’ll have it in the bag.

Well guys I hate to tell you but look who’s in your rear-view mirror (objects are indeed closer than they appear) - and that without a hot Andrew Jones or a ‘shut-‘em-down closer. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Braves are in first by June 1st…wouldn’t that be a hoot? If that’s the case they’ll be calling for the head of the GM and the manager.

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

Uh, Carolina Lady, that was a joke. I guess I should have said “I want to BEAR your children.” It was meant as an exaggerated way of thanking you fopr agreement. I mean, jeez. Are you a lawyer or something?

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

:-))) No, Joe, I knew exactly what you meant, appreciated the intent of the thought, and just put a different spin on it. All in fun! :-)))

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this

Does that mean you are a political consultant, CL?

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

Nah, I just have an odd sense of humor! Love to laugh, to see a different side of something ordinary and just enjoy life in general! Humor greases the skids in life! :-)) (And I DID enjoy your response! Wit is always appreciated!)

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

David, you asked about the clubhouse. It’s been a much lighter mood lately, though even at its worst this clubhouse is far better than most others I’ve been in. That goes to that even-keel mentality and also _ this shouldn’t be overlooked _ the lack of music in the clubhouse. Most teams allow it, so when they’re losing and the music is turned off, it’s really noticeable and affects the entire mood. Cox doesn’t permit it at any time. If guys want to listen to music in the clubhouse, they’re free to wear headphones and listen to their own selections. Works well, I must say, though when I first started covering Braves it took a while to get used to the quiet.

By David O'Brien

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

Woogidy, the Bobby Bare show was really, really good. The old man is a treasure, that voice and all the anecdotes, the stories he told about playing and hanging with Waylone, Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed, etc. I was very glad I went. And his son’s band rocks, if you haven’t heard them.

Sr. played an hour, then after a 20-minute break the son’s band rocked for about 90 minutes. Senior singing “Drop Kick Me, Jesus, Through the Goal Posts of Life” (remember that scene when it was played in The Deer Hunter?) was a highlight.

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this

Waylon, not Waylone. I might get struck down by the music gods for misspelling that name. Sorry, Mr. Jennings, if you’re looking down upon us from that great honky-tonk in the sky.

By Del

May 28, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

JS sure didn’t look comfortable that 1st inning. Don’t think he threw a single splitter. Wonder how much the switch to Pratt instead of McCann had to do with it?

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

good point Del about McCann, although he hasn’t used that pitch much this year. He has been featuring a changeup instead. I think he misses Brian. Remember, It was John who used Brian exclusively last year. Meanwhile, batting practice is underway at Wrigley.

By Shawn B

May 28, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

What do you know, a lackadaisical play by LaRoche extends an inning.

By Miranda

May 28, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

and another catcher down? …this isn’t good

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this

Give Salty a call. Get him to ATL. Just in case. We could send down Paronto for a couple of days.

By Chuck E.

May 28, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

Following the game online….What happened to Pratt?

By eric the elder

May 28, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

It’s disgusting to watch a stationary catcher being run down by a speeding runner. I’ve made this suggestion before, but here is my rule change. The catcher must give some of the plate to the runner and cannot physically block the plate. The runner must slide directly at the plate and cannot bowl over the catcher. A runner who, in the opinion of the umpire, deliberately runs over the catcher is ejected from the game.

By Miranda

May 28, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Play at the plate… we got the out which was the 3rd out …the guys knee sorta hit Pratt in the head/chin area but he had his helmet so I’m not too sure what the problem was. They analyzed the play several times… looks like it might have pinned his arm …he was favoring it when he left the field… no word on anything yet

By Chuck E.

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

Thanks, Miranda. Hope for Pratt’s sake that’s nothing serious.

By Miranda

May 28, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

right fore arm contusion (sp?) is what they just told us on Pratt

By HEAD COACH

May 28, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

Pratt got his bell rung with a knee to the head , its bomb city at Wrigley today , 7 homeruns by Atlanta so far. Why is Smoltz still pitching ? The guy is a warrior , Cox is going to have to drag him off the mound. Chipper is either playing hurt or in a miserable slump , my grandma could hit today at Wrigley.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

catcher, what will we do for a catcher? pena is a “p” player. it seems we need an “s” player, but is he worthy? pete orr is emergency catcher - another “p” player. journalist jimmy smith once heard bobby bear at chuck-e-cheese. not sure if he was sr. or jr. bear was dull and had little rhythm. now, laroche is showing power today from first base. bobby is picking his nose again. pressure situation.

By Miranda

May 28, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

PENA just went yard too!!

By HEAD COACH

May 28, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

8 homeruns , a new record for futility for the Cubbies. A new team record for Atlanta , yeeee haaaaa I luv it.

By Chuck E.

May 28, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Obscure statistic of the day: the Braves have tied a record for most homeruns by infielders in a single game with 6. One away from tying National League homerun record. This is fun.

Here are the records before today:

[http://www.baseball-almanac.com/recbooks/rb_hr8.shtml]

By Del

May 28, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

Tell me once again all you Chipper lovers how really great he looks at the plate today. You still think he isn’t ailing somewhere?

By Deep Dixie Royal Blue

May 28, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

What are you hearing about Dayton Moore? Is he going to take the KC GM job and save the franchise? Or are the Glasses going to choke on relinguishing control of personnel? Thanks

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

SPECIAL NOTICE TO THE “Call Up Salty” FACTION…

Stop.

You wanna see what he’s doing at Double-A? It’s horrid. Try .204 BA for starters… don’t believe me? Copy/past the link below and see for yourself…

http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/external/brandedstats/t430.html?cid=430&lid=111&t=t_ibp&sid=milb

If the Braves have to call anybody up, I’m thinking Carlos Mendez, with his .276 BA in 32 games, with 22 RBI. But if I’m not mistaken, we have one or two backup catchers already on our roster. I’d heard Matt Diaz mentioned in the TBS-cast today, and I could’ve sworn somebody like Pete Orr was capable as well.

But please, avoid showing your ignorance by blurting out another “Call up Salty” post.

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this

Uh Oh….here we go.

Another FANTASTIC Reitsma outing.

By Miranda

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

OMG… I can NOT believe what I’m watching.. but then again it is Reitsma

like why couldn’t we just let Cormier try to get out of it

By JEFF

May 28, 2006 05:30 PM | Link to this

WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON IN COX’S HEAD? DOES REITSMA HAVE SOME POLAROIDS ON COX OR WHAT? REITSMA ABSOLUTELY STINKS AND HAS NEVER SHOWN TO BE A GOOD CLOSER! I HATE WATCHING THIS OVER AND OVER!

By fan3585

May 28, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this

fire reitsma, chipper and cormier and then you may have some hope. Be serious braves fans and management. Force them to act.

By Deep Dixie Royal Blue

May 28, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this

Betemit should’ve gotten at least one out on that chopper. Why was he playing so far off the line in the ninth?

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

See, here’s where Cox has me scratching my head….

Barrett’s 4 for 9 against Reitsma, so he leaves Reitsma in or Barrett in the box rather than walkingh im

What happened to going with matchups?

Thank God it worked out, this time. But where’s the logic?

Then again, where’s the logic in using Reitsma - PERIOD!

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

Reitsma BLOWS… another one.

By HEAD COACH

May 28, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

Thank you Bobby Cox , You stubborn old man. You bring your boy Reitsma in and let him blow number nine. Thank you for letting your team down.

By eric the elder

May 28, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

No need to interview Reitsma today - - just play all the old file tapes - - “I stunk,” blah, blah. As if we didn’t know.

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s time to leave Reitsma in Chicago. I’ve had it. I join the Reeksma club as of now. Cox gave him enough rope to hang himself today, I hope Bobby is tying the knot as I write this.

By ernesto

May 28, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

That was so painful.

By JEFF

May 28, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

OK-I get it! Cox wants Villareal to lead the majors in wins so he asks Reitsma to blow games so Oscar can come in and get the win! This has to be it, there is no other logical reason to use Reitsma.

By LeRoy

May 28, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

How many games is Bobby gonna sacrifice because he doesn’t wanna hurt Chris Reisma’s sissy feelings? Reisma sucks as a closer and its frustating seeing him give won games away.

By Del

May 28, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Braves fans, this could be the BEST blown save we have ever seen if it finally and forever convinces Bobby that CR does not belong on the mound anywhere near the 9th inning. Now lets go out and win this darn thing.

By RIP

May 28, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

Bobby should be fired after todays game. I love the man but what is wrong with him putting REITSMA IN AND NOT PULLING HIM. Just give the D#@% game away.Maybe the hitters win make a winner out of REITSMAS, that would be a joke.

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

This has to be a watershed day for the Braves, if they lose this one.

Changes have to be forthcoming in the bullpen. The only reason (I think) we haven’t traded Reitsma yet is because nobody’d take him. They don’t wanna just release him, I think, is because they’re probably obligated to pay him regardless - and lord knows we can’t expect Time-Warner to pay for something they get nothing out of, right?

At least by paying him, they make fans have to stay with the game through the ninth inning, as closing out a win is a nail-biter like an ‘American Idol’ finale.

By ryan

May 28, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

actually Cox is just thinking of Memorial Day and was showing us a dead Veteran pitcher

By Lonnie

May 28, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

Enough is freakin enough. Scheurholz needs to find us a closer ASAP and Kenny Ray needs to close until then. Oh and Reitsma kind find his own way back to Atlanta. What a hump.

By ernesto

May 28, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

I guarantee the comments after today’s game will be “Chris just got a few up…he’ll be fine, he’s got nasty stuff…he’s just got to keep the ball down…he’s going to come around.” How long can we keep saying that?

By TennesseePaul

May 28, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this

Jeff: Nice though, but Villarreal has blown more than Reitsma. Villarreal allows 75% of inheritted runners to score. That’s how he has all those wins. It doesn’t go against his ERA. He only gives him a blown save and a win.

On the bright side, I cannot fathom the Braves letting Reitsma close again. JS won’t allow it, even if Bobby wants it. I think JS would trade him or just tell him to stay in Chicago while the team flies back to Atlanta.

By Ron Roberts

May 28, 2006 05:48 PM | Link to this

Aww, Ryah…. that was tasteless…

…funny but tasteless.

By TennesseePaul

May 28, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

Last year, it was “Chris is just a victim of bad luck.” Or “He gets the grounder, but the grounder gets the funny hop.” No more of this. Hitters are crushing his pitches to every part of the park. This is one closer you can officially stick a fork in.

By David

May 28, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

On a day like today. Nothing is ever safe. Why not put Ray in the ballgame? Yes, he has been used alot. But, Reitsma cannot work 9th inning games. Period. Yeah, we all say that Reitsma is finished. But, we have been saying that same tune for about a month now. This is obsurd. The only person that will back Reitsma up today will probably be Smoltzy. Just because he gave up alot of runs himself. This makes me sick.

By TennesseePaul

May 28, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable. I’ve never seen anything like it. Right off his head.

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

I keep pointing this out, Bobby always give his team 60 games and then takes a look at personnel. He has said this before. Trust Bobby, he will fix it.

By Rip

May 28, 2006 05:56 PM | Link to this

Ryan thats as bad as playing Reitsma, not a very good joke! God bless all our VETS.

By David

May 28, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

Great job giley. You’re looking like your old self again. Come on Death Ray don’t let us down.

By John

May 28, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Here we go…lets see if Ray has what it takes today.

By elbravox

May 28, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

someone lost his job today. Finally, CR is done!

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

At least were not Cubs fans! C’mon Death Ray!

By JEFF

May 28, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

I REST MY CASE-THE OSCAR-REITSMA-COX SCANDAL! And didn’t Cox try this same thing with that Eichhorn guy when he managed the Blue Jays?

And, by the way, I love Smoltz but if he had stayed the closer, he would have Eckersley-like #’s now and be easily heading to the HOF but instead he is picking up only a handful of wins and letting many wins for him and the Braves get blown away.

By David

May 28, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

If and when Ray gets this save. I want to see him show alot of emotion. As to say, this is my job to lose now.

By elbravox

May 28, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

Another rewrite for DOB!

By Bo

May 28, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

woogidy if Bobby was your Dr. would you trust him to do your surgery? NOT ON yOUR LIFE must less mine.

By Eric C.

May 28, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox always has a way of clearing his name when second-guessed, but putting Reitsma in the ninth is such a blatant offense…I just don’t get it at all.

By Woogidy

May 28, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

Why would I trust a Baseball manager with a surgical procedure on me? Would you trust your DR. managing the Braves to 14 division titles? My point is if I had a Dr. with a record of success, YES I would trust him.

By MEB

May 28, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

What a bizarre game! So does Death Ray use the good side of the force or the dark side? BRAVES WIN!!!

By TennesseePaul

May 28, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

I think that about does it. What more do you want to see from a man? In one game we got to see why the corpse is not the answer, and why the Death Ray is.

GO BRAVES!!!!

By Jerald Holcombe

May 28, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

There’s not a stat to back me up on this but I’ll guarantee you that no manager in history has given one man as many chances to be the closer as Bobby has given Reeksma. Personally, I think Reeksma is blackmailing Bobby.

The Braves dodged another bullet today with no thanks to the Bobby Cox/Chris Reeksma duo. Good job by Ken Ray.

By Chuck E.

May 28, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

It’s finally over. Deep breath time. But please, Bobby, please PLEASE don’t let Reitsma close again. Please.

Hat tip to Oscar and The K-Man for finishing things off nicely.

By Joe Roman

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

That’s it! The closer is the two R’s. That’s Ray and Remlinger. The other R goes into the Tomb of the Unknown Pitcher. If it comes down to one guy in the end, I hope it’s Ray. Good crack, ryan!

By TennesseePaul

May 28, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this

Watching those replays of how we won it… I don’t think there is another team in the majors that could lose a game that way. The Cubs just know how to lose. It’s impressive.

By David

May 28, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

Front page of sports section needs to read new braves Closer

By HEAD COACH

May 28, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this

I never thought I’d be so angry after a Braves win , but man am I P.O’d at Bobby Cox. Death Ray is the closer , period. He is the man in the ninth. Dear bobby Cox , did you know that this team would actually be in 1st place right now if not for your Boy Reitsma ? I already knew you couldnt manage a team in the playofs , now I’m wondering if you can manage during the regular season , has this game passed you by ? Does retirement suit you ? there are 24 other major leaguers wondering what you are doing with the whole Reitsma situation and their confidence in you as a manager is at stake. I respect you Bobby but I think you might be slipping upstairs. We just swept the cubbies on the road , went 6-3 on this road trip , set a new team record for homeruns in a game and I’m mad a hell at Cox and his american league managing philosophy. What does this say for for a fans confidence in management ?

By Del

May 28, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Joe Simpson is absolutely right, this team has to address their strikeout problem. What was it 40+ in the last 3 games? That is 40 chances for the defense to screw up that we didn’t give them. We need a team-wide effort to get this problem back under control. 18 strikeouts today is UN-ACCEPTABLE.

By geauxbraves2000

May 28, 2006 06:56 PM | Link to this

If BC wouldv’e called on Ray in the 9th, instead of bringing in the opener (Reitsma is the exact opposite of a closer, so I call him the opener) maybe this game would’ve never gone into extra innings.

By MBATL

May 28, 2006 07:05 PM | Link to this

On the other hand, Head Coach, Bobby was given a loser as a closer last year in Kolb (along with Mondesi and Jordan as his opening day corner OF), and won a division.

This year, he’s been given Devine and Reitsma, and both are busts. Yet, here we are, winners of 13 of our last 17 despite a grueling schedule, gradually getting some young and/or inexperienced guys some late-inning experience. and 3.5 behind the all-star mets. Apparently a happy clubhouse, every reason to expect another title run (with, hopefully, some bullpen help by July 31).

I don’t see the huge problem with Bobby.

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 07:18 PM | Link to this

I am furious that the bullpen continues to rob Smoltz of wins. And if Cox continues to use Reitsma as closer, I may have to remove the second part of my name!

By ABC

May 28, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

Was it Darryl Kyle or Pete Harrnisch who got DLed for “Inability to pitch”? I say Reeky is ready for that.

By doc

May 28, 2006 07:32 PM | Link to this

mbatl werent you down playing that grueling schedule to start the season? if you werent earlier i am certainly going to emphasize that the braves as lousy as they have appeared now have a chance to turn it on. the next 35 games or so should tell how good this team is. it is hard to believe but these guys have been on the road now for essentially more than 3 of the last four months. that will wear on bodies just doing no activity. the wives and kids will be and are important and the home atmosphere will hopefully bring about the steady and sharp play that we have become acustomed to.

it also seems that the mets thus far are for real as they are playing well on the road and at home. think the phillies are a flash in the pan and done for. if the mets are true to form the arms of glavine and pedro will tire a the end to allow the braves some breathing room. four games above .500 is quite an acomplishment considering injuries and bullpen issues.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 28, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

Excuse me folks, but I need to hurry to the toilet….and take a good, healthy BACHT!..…and maybe I’ll read a few journalistic gems written on the walls by DOB and jjs!!!…GO NATS!!!…

By MBATL

May 28, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

doc, don’t think I was downplaying the schedule; 32 of first 50 on the road is tough, especially when half of it is on the West Coast … but I’m not sure I get your point. That’s probably my fault, not yours!

Certainly, the schedule evens out some, and we need to take advantage. Didn’t see the game today, but heard some talking heads (not the Braves’ guys) on the radio saying Memorial Day is a good time to see if you’ve got a chance, and Fourth of July is a good time to see if you’re a contender. I agree.

I said early on that the Braves are a “hot weather” team. We don’t play well in April/May, and unfortunately, we don’t play well in October either. But I expect that by July 4 we’ll be in first place or very close to it … we’ll see.

Mets are good, but they have holes too… leadoff hitter has a sorry OBP (just like ours); they only have 2 strong starters; their high-dollar closer is only fair so far; and they don’t score as many runs as the Braves.

I said 10 days ago that a 5-4 road trip would be fine, and we went 6-3. I am absolutely pleased with where the Braves are right now.

By brian

May 28, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for the Hudson comments. And by the way, you don’t just do an “OK” job, you do strong work. My grandfather taught me to love the Braves and I don’t think he missed a game on TV or radio until just before he died (I actually don’t think he missed a Cracker game either before the Braves came to town). Now living out of town, I am starved for Braves news and the inside scoop. Along with the Lady, this Carolina guy comes here to get my fill

By Carolina Lady

May 28, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

Hi, Brian! Welcome to a fellow Tar Heel!

By ***journalist jimmy smith***

May 28, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this

root beer float! jimmy smith has begun the holiday already with a cookout and root beer float. barq’s root beer today. root beer float is perfect for journalists - ice cream and drink in one. baby seal was most pleased with barbecued fish treats. tomorrow morning journalist will attend a memorial day observation, then, at 1:05 pm the game begins. the dodgers are much better than the cubs and the cubs gave the braves all they could handle. journalist is happy to see furcal back in town and reminds furcal to observe rules of probation while in town. now, reitsma … maybe a root beer float will make him feel better.

By Joe Roman

May 28, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this

It’s so weird how sometimes when scanning previous postings, one will stand out. Then, when you go back to look at it again, you can’t find it. ANYway, someone said Cox gives his roster about sixty games to get it together before substantive changes are made. That’s ten games away which brings us to the last day of the longest home stand. It has a certain poetry, doesn’t it? Don’t get so strung out gang. Life’s too short. Unless it’s your job, baseball is just a form of entertainment For all your nit-picking, Cox has got this team making the Mets wake up in cold sweats. Maybe those of you who have never played the game much don’t realize what a weird game baseball is. Even the ‘27 Yankees had bad games. The Yankees nearly got rid of Babe Ruth the year before his greatest season as a hitter. All the great managers made moves they wished they hadn’t, and the greatest players have looked like amateurs on occasion. A wise man once said, “Even the worse teams win 54 in a season. Even the best lose 54. It’s the other 54 that make the difference.” That means the Braves are halfway home in the first aggregate, they’ve got 31 loses to play with, and my money is on Bobby Cox in that all-important last fifty-four. Look on the sunny side, whiners. You are guaranteed over a month’s worth of games to b*** and moan about.

By doc

May 28, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this

mbatl, not singling you out, enjoy what you have to say an respect it, my point is there have been a lot of supporters and detractors both that didnt acknowledge or understand the road this team had to go at the begining of the season stated it early before the season bgan then found out it was worse than i had imagined. instead of it being a stretch of thirty it was more like fifty and forwarned again, but folks would downplay it. someone even retorted along the way, it wont matter because they play so many at home during september. a schedule like they had could bury some teams and a young one like this. you are savvy enought to credit this team for just being where they are. i think we alll should.

i too hoped for something close to .500 on the trip, then they somehow got two wins with no runs while losing their best hitter this season and everyday catcher, it just didnt look pretty. i hoped that they would still be at .500 ball after the startup stetch as well and felt that would be an excellent start given the young guys and the relative newcomers to the team. they have thankfully played above that mark and may be in a position to make some noise to get to the top again. there are a lot of questions but home cooking should help a lot. now the next 25 -30 are going to show us what we have as it is time to put it together.

By Jim

May 28, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

Headline for the Chicago tabloids:

Heads up play by Ramirez dooms Cubs in 11th.

One thing about the comments about overusing Ray. He is very efficient with his pitches, practically all his outings are 10-15 pitches wheras most closers will throw more. He comes right after the hitter and has shown good control. He does not beat himself. He may blow a few games, what closer doesn’t short of Gagne and Rivera of a few years back, but he won’t beat himself like Kolb did last year.

Most closers are one or two year wonders— look at Dempster: He went from Dempster the all-star in Miami to Dumpster the journeyman starter to Dempster the improbable closer last year back to Dumpster this year.

By Jim

May 28, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

A comment about the blogger who said we should try to get D. Willis. Watching him yesterday on Fox and a couple of starts against the Braves he does not seem to be the same pitcher he was last year. The leg kick is much less pronounced and he is coming in more 3/4 arm. His pitches seem to be on a flat plane and he can be very hittable — reminds me right now of a left-handed Oscar Villareal. A good pitching coach might straighten him out, but right now he is not worth giving up the farm for and his value might be going down as long as he continues to struggle.

By glembo

May 28, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

From Joe Roman: A wise man once said, “Even the worse teams win 54 in a season. Even the best lose 54. It’s the other 54 that make the difference.” Even glembo knows what’s wrong with that quote and glembo still wants a bat. DOB, did you ask for glembo’s bat?

By MBATL

May 28, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

I think Ray has 2 saves in the last 3 days, right? I know everybody wants RAY to be CLOSER now, but it seems like Bobby is working him into the role without throwing the pressure of the title on him.

Obviously, the Braves hold some confidence in Reitsma that is not evident to us as fans - they’re giving him every chance to succeed, but the worm is turning, I think. Bobby’s not stupid; he’s running CR out there for a reason; so they can justify keeping him, or justify dumping him. Unlike many bloggers, Bobby knows that there are 4 months left in the season.

jjs, bet the Braves-LAD games are just as tight at Braves-Cubbies (not gonna predict winners/losers, as that’s a real loser’s gambit) … we’ll see!

By sam

May 28, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this

The braves seem poised to make a move at taking the lead away from the mets. Things are beginning to fall into place. giles is hitting better, Ray is a model of consistency and the starting pitching is looking better. Although Smoltz did not look good today, we now have a chance to win with any of the 5 starters.No automatic loss as was the case with Sosa earlier in the year. I would not be opposed to trading Laroach as he is just too laid back for me.

By forcesaberz

May 28, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this

As much as LaRoach isnt on my top favorite players list I am starting to certainly like him more. He may be low key but he tries hard, plays excellent D, and gets big hits (doubles, HR’s, etc)….he can def be clutch. I feel fairly confortable with him up and runners in scoring position. He hasnt been striking out as much recently has he? He can really put some charges into the balls

By BACHT

May 28, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

Reeksma is not the blame on this one, what is he suppose to do? not pitch when Bobby puts him on? He sucks real bad he sucks more than Southern JACK Butt and his new buddy David O’Bull$#!t. Bobby is losing his fricking mind each passing hour. SJA and DOB knows that and like good BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN boys they will ride with it. Go Braves.

By Gartolo

May 28, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith you suck. Joe Roman get a life. If you knew anything about baseball you would not be here b*** you dumba$$e$. I bet you idiots are not even make 30k a year. You uneducated morons.Go Mets.

By SLBREB

May 28, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

Can someone please breakin and steal the pictures that Resitma and Kolb have on Bobby? Everyone on the plant can see that Chris has not performed for three years except for about 4 or 5 weeks last summer. I do not care what stuff management thinks he has. Every time he enters the game it is a disaster.

By Jimbo

May 28, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

It’s OK for Bobby to lie to the media and the fans about Reeksma pitching well, but having bad luck. My question is how does he face the 24 other players on the club who know he is lieing as well as jeopardizing games they should win? Fool us once Bobby, same on you; fool us twice, shame on us.

By Jason

May 28, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

We just beat one of the worst teams in the league, by one run or less in each of the three games we faced them. This is a mediocre team and John Schuerholtz is not doing a damn thing about it. Keep smiling John, we wont be playing the worst of the worst for long.

By jennifer

May 28, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Great now Smoltz is hurt, its his hamstring.. whats gonna happen now?!?! I’m so glad they pulled out a win today.

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 11:24 PM | Link to this

BACHT, solid post, dude. You feel better now? Good.

Anyway, to the real bloggers: I feel your pain. You should have seen us reporters, all of us left before the inning to beat the crowds down the ramps, figuring that a four-run lead was safe.

Well, it was a lot of walking up and down those ramps, folks.

A couple of Braves fans I talked to as I watched the ninth unfold from the bleachers were furious, but I couldn’t even use their quotes in my game story for all the cursing. Oh well….

You guys aren’t going to like Bobby’s comments in my game story. Take a look and let me know what you think. The story’s posted now. I really thought Bobby might indicate a change would be made after this one, but no, he said again the Reitsma’s pitching good. Seriously, he did say that.

Anyway, that’s two saves in three days for Death Ray, and I think it’s inevitable he’s going to be the primary guy sooner or later. But we’ll see. Bobby wanted to rest Ray today, but ended up having to use him. Actually, he wanted to rest Ray and Reitsma.

Turns out, if he’d rested Reitsma in ninth, he wouldn’t have had to use Ray in 11th. But that’s me just assuming that McBride or Rem or whoever could have gotten those last two outs without letting in four runs in the ninth.

But what a trip, huh? I’m exhausted, I gotta tell you. Never done more rewriting on one trip in my life. 6-3 on the trip, the Braves were. And even considering the competition, that’s solid.

Braves are 14-5 since May 7, while Mets and Phils are below .500 in that span. Now, the schedule gets a little easier, at least in terms of being home. Dodgers have been awful hot lately, though Nats cooled them a bit this weekend.

By the way, Furcal’s hitting about .349 in his last 18 games, and Nomaaaaah is hitting .388) with 17 extra-base hits and 27 RBIs in his past 27 games.

And yes, there’s a good chance Dayton could be leaving, if Royals give him complete control. But that’s all I know. He’s not returned calls in a while, which tells me it’s serious.

By jennifer

May 28, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

CAN’T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG?LMFAO

By David O'Brien

May 28, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

Actually, I should correct myself. I casually threw out a line in previous post about how Rem or McBride or whoever could have gotten two outs in ninth, but then I recalled Bobby said Rem was not pitching regardless on Sunday because of recent workload.

And McBride pitched the eighth. So nevermind.

Point is, others could have probably gotten those two outs. Villarreal, for one. But hey, enough ruminating, I guess.

By old timer

May 28, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe that isn’t it for Reitsma. Even if Bobby won’t say it, I think it is.

What a game. Was the wind blowing out only when we were up? Have you ever seen a pop up hit a third baseman on the head, not counting that time in grammar school?

BACHT, are you playing around, or are you just ignorant?

By old timer

May 28, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

After taking another frightening ninth-inning ride on the Chris Reitsma closercoaster … Good line, DOB.

By Woogidy

May 29, 2006 12:04 AM | Link to this

http://www.newsday.com/sports/printedition/ny-spflash284761195may28,0,6245589.column?page=2&coll=ny-sports-print

READ THIS !!!! Brad Lidge???

By student

May 29, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I read Cox’s comments and had a hard time understanding them. I just hope that he’s only avoiding calling out Reitsma at this point. He just can’t be planning to use him to close ball games anymore. I know he looked okay for a couple of games before this, but it seems pretty clear that this is going to be a recurring problem. Any closer can have a bad outing now and then and blow a save, but Reitsma really doesn’t seem to be able to handle it. You just look at the contrast between him and Ray out there and you see that. Ray looks like he enjoys the pressure, he goes after hitters, Reitsma just doesn’t look like he really wants be out there in the 9th.

I think Cox takes some silly criticism from people on here and elsewhere and usually his loyalty to his players is a good thing, but this has just gotten out of control. DOB, do you really think Cox intends to keep throwing Reitsma out there to blow games, he can’t mean that right? Whats it going to take, this is all the more maddening because the old argument that no one else is going to be much better is pretty much out the window at this point. Ray can do this, and I’d prefer if Cox would let him do this in the 9th instead of the 11th.

By hoho

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

JENNIFER- lmfao? ok, i guess i need to get to that foreign language class now, WTF?

If all the negative bloggers keep their negativity, insensitivity, tom-foolery, etc. contained to this blog and not in the real world we’ll all be fine. some folks really do come across like cretins, but like carolina lady says- just skip the blogs you think might irritate you. gee- that only leaves a handful of blogs that refer to baseball in a legit manner.

enough with the brokeback remarks- did any of y’all see the movie? great story, great love story. but if you didn’t see it please don’t respond.

speaking of movies- we watched field of dreams tonight. i know it’s cliche, but we all should watch it once a season (and bull durham, of course) i mean the last scene- “hey dad, wanna have catch”!? geez, another great story. lump in the throat time.

THE ONE CONSTANT HAS BEEN BASEBALL- ‘nuff said.

By HEAD COACH

May 29, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this

Alcoholics cant stay away from the alcohol , drug addicts cant stay away from narcotics and Cox cant stay away from Reitsma. It would be so interesting if Chipper or Smoltz would question Cox on his boy Reitsma . whether publicly or privately , I dont care just call Cox out and let him know his decision making process is questionable at best.

By J-Baller

May 29, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

What else could Reeksma possibly do to lose the closer’s role? Honestly, what has he not done to blow a game? And Ray has been simply outstanding in every chance he’s gotten all frickin year. We really need to question Bobby this time!

By Andy

May 29, 2006 02:15 AM | Link to this

wow—man what a game—I am glad we ran the new guy out by the second—reeksma man o man. I am so sad we had to use ray again. But in the end of the season if we win by one game—-so be it. If we lose by one….

By BACHT

May 29, 2006 02:23 AM | Link to this

jimmy smith i love you man!,,,mr. southernjackass sir, please don’t hit me!,,,don’t hit me anymore boss!,,,hoho i love you too man, let’s go up on brokeback mountain and pet the seal,,,i wish i was like ron roberts,,,but no im just a bacht, a damnmed ignorant azz bacht,,,a low life,,,a grub,,,a wanna be,,,i wear my sisters panties to school,,,im bacht dammit!

By Marc

May 29, 2006 03:09 AM | Link to this

If Reeksma went out in the ninth naked and throwing lefty, and gave up 10 runs, Bobby would say he was cold out there, and for throwing lefty he pitched pretty well. This guy is a joke, loyalty is important, but at some point you have to put the betterment of the team ahead of one guy. It is becoming so deflating watching Reeksma go out there time and time again and blow it in the ninth. I don’t think ray will be perfect, but you have to give him a try, until the Braves acquire someone else. The offense also has to figure out how to be more patient, I understand striking out against Peavy, but 18 strikeouts when hitting against Rusch and Novoa, thast is a problem. Th eBraves need a reliever and a hitter, either an outfielder or a 1st baseman. I hope they make the moves.

By gotigers72

May 29, 2006 03:15 AM | Link to this

Read your column DOB, and I hope that’s just Bobby being Bobby. I hope he really doesn’t think that Reitsma’s pitching “Is fine, for me”. Is Bobby watching the same games I am?

They shut down Kolb last year when he was blowing saves. Hopefully they’ll do the same with Reitsma. His face shows he doesn’t have much confidence. Blown saves are about as demoralizing a thing as can happen to a team. Glad they had the guts and fortitude to come back. Way to hustle on that pop up Langerhans. It would have been easy to loaf on that one, but you didn’t and you wound up at second. And way to come through Marcus with a clutch hit. Those blown saves are especially bad when you have hit 8 home runs and have a 4 run lead. Cormier doesn’t look the same either. I don’t think he’s 100%. Maybe he needs some more rehab work.

By BACHT

May 29, 2006 06:43 AM | Link to this

Smoltz hurt, no legit closer, loafer for a first baseman,Pratt is out,McCann is out,Francoeur swings at anything like his life depends on it, Chipper can’t buy a hit, Salty is not as hot as we thought he is, what the hell Jordan is still here for?. Despite of all the negative on this team so far too dn good. Now is time to go up to Brokeback Mountain and find my buddies,DOB,Ron Roberts,Jimmy Smith,SJ A$$ wipe. By the way we are going to win the game today, it won’t be easy but we are going to win it with Reitsma saving the game in the ninth. I really believe Bobby will give him another chance. Bobby just f**ng with us folks maybe he needs to go up to Mountain and play with you boys. I have more panties if you boys out.

By Hotrod

May 29, 2006 07:21 AM | Link to this

It is now becoming cruel and unusual punishment to send Reitsma out there. I now step away from the t.v. or change the channel. Case in point : Sunday , Braves up by 4 and in comes Reitsma. I head for the backyard to finish some yardwork.I come back in a bout 20 - 30 minutes only to see Reitsma in the dugout eating a towel and the game is tied. It is just unwatchable.

By Jim

May 29, 2006 08:24 AM | Link to this

One of Bobby Cox’s greatest strengths is that he how he sticks upfor his players publicly. Privately he probably has a much different opinion on their performance as indicated by his switch to Ray as the primary closer the last few days. He has to play the cards he is dealt and that includes giving Ray a day off when he has a 4 run lead in the 9th inning. As bad as Reitsma has been, Cormier has not been the same since his return from the DL and one cannot have a lot of confidence in Villareal either.

Where Bobby really made the mistake yesterday was removing Chipper to rest for one inning in the 4 run game at Wrigley. If that play at 3rd is made Reitsma gets his save and Ray gets the day off.

By Dave

May 29, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

He has a 6.55 ERA and .326 opponents’ average, and has given up multiple runs in six of 21 appearances this season.”For me, he’s throwing fine,” Cox said. I guess my idea of throwing fine and Bobby’s might be a little different. It is one thing to show confidence in a player which is hard in this case it is another to say these public comments and understand what Bobby is seeing and we don’t.

By Poor Man

May 29, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

BOBBY,STILL THINKING THAT REITSMA IS GOOD YOU ARE DISRESPECTING THE REST OF THE TEAM.GO BRAVES

By John

May 29, 2006 09:21 AM | Link to this

Running Reitsma out there and watching him fail is killing CR’s confidence. Kill his confidence and you can forget about CR even being a servicable middle reliver the rest of the season. BC’s idoitic statements like “(His throwing) it’s fine, for me” has to be an attempt at keeping Reitsma in the game, so to speak, for the rest of the season. To do otherwise would result in a Kolbian meltdown and the loss of a bullpen arm that the Bravos really can’t afford.

By Bobbymahlon

May 29, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

If my memory is correct Kolb and Reitsma blue six games for Smoltz last year which would of made him a twenty game winner.As I have said before Ken Ray has the numbers for a shot at the closers spot. I’m a diehard Braves fan and as long as Reitsma is a Brave I will be pulling for him but I think it should be as a setup man and not a closer. Hank Aaron is my boy and that is why I hope he keeps the home run record and not that other(cheating guy). Did you notice race has nothing to do with it.

By Hal

May 29, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this

I have a question…how do you beat a team by one run or LESS in a 3 game series ???if you beat them by less then one run im not sure the game could end ohhhhhhhh im so confused by this lol

By gobraves06

May 29, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

I hold Bobby Cox in the highest respect, but this ridiculous defense of Chris Reeksma is completely inexcusible. In case Bobby didn’t notice, Reeksma has a 6.55 ERA and opponents are hitting .326 against him. That doesn’t sound like a closer to me. Oh, how I long for the days of Mark Wohlers. Or better yet, John Smoltz!

By BO

May 29, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

DOB whats your take on Bonds 716? What moves do you really believe the Braves will make if any? Did you get new CD on J Cash yet?

By Joe Roman

May 29, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

Do any of these whiners even look at the standings or keep track of the wins and loses? What on earth do you people want? No team plays perfect baseball. No manager makes nothing but perfect decisions and no team wins all their games. The Braves have won consistently for fifteen years now. No other team in the history of the game has done that or come close. Think for a moment before launching into another of your insufferable “I know more than anybody else” tirades and ask yourself this simple question. COMPARED TO WHAT?. Criticism requires some standard for comparison. There is no standard for comparison when it comes to what the Braves have done. In this era of free agency, putting a winner on the field with a substantially different roster each and every year is unbelievable and the envy of the rest of baseball. Add in the financial restrictions of recent seasons, and your jaw just drops. To me, it’s one of the most exciting and awe-inspiring aspects of following this team. I will never understand what motivates people to engage in such constant, bitter criticism of such a successful team, manager and organization.

By Joe Roman

May 29, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this

Do any of these whiners even look at the standings or keep track of the wins and loses? What on earth do you people want? No team plays perfect baseball. No manager makes nothing but perfect decisions and no team wins all their games. The Braves have won consistently for fifteen years now. No other team in the history of the game has done that or come close. Think for a moment before launching into another of your insufferable “I know more than anybody else” tirades and ask yourself this simple question. COMPARED TO WHAT?. Criticism requires some standard for comparison. There is no standard for comparison when it comes to what the Braves have done. In this era of free agency, putting a winner on the field with a substantially different roster each and every year is unbelievable and the envy of the rest of baseball. Add in the financial restrictions of recent seasons, and your jaw just drops. To me, it’s one of the most exciting and awe-inspiring aspects of following this team. I will never understand what motivates people to engage in such constant, bitter criticism of such a successful team, manager and organization.

By Ken

May 29, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Reitsma was decent set-up man, but to paraphrase the late Jackie Gleason in “Smokey and the Bandit”, he couldn’t close an unbrella. I am happy for Ken Ray, it is always cool to see someone who has struggled his whole career doing well. He might turn out to be a very good closer and I hope so. But before we get too excited, it was the Cubs. Just joking, Cubs fans. GO BRAVES!!!!!

By eric the elder

May 29, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

Joe, I’ve been on this blog for a couple of years, and I have yet to hear anyone claim that they know more than anybody else. People are expressing opinions about the state of affairs in the here and now, not about the past. I’m sorry that you find that “insufferable.”

I’m sure I’m not the only one who stands in awe of what our team has done these past 14 years. The one constant is Bobby Cox, and for that he deserves our respect and admiration. That’s not to say, though, that good fans can’t be exasperated on a day to day basis when Bobby is perceived to be stubbornly loyal to a lost cause or when 18 players strike out in one game and then 17 more a few games later. All fans want their team to win, and that’s why they express so much disappointment when it doesn’t. Criticizing fans for being critical or for having opinions about how the team could be better reveals a weak understanding about what being a fan is all about.

By ernesto

May 29, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

Look I understand what Bobby’s saying..a couple of inches to the right and Betemit can field that ball…the grounder to Reitsma is hit a little harder he catches the guy at the plate…only one ball was really stung. I get it. But the thing is, it always, ALWAYS, happens to Reitsma b/c he’s so hittable. I mean if guys can put stuff into play, you’re going to get some bad hops, some seeing eye singles, some dying quails…and lots of blown saves. He doesn’t have an out pitch, he doesn’t have, call it luck, call it whatever. He doesn’t need to be closing.

By ernesto

May 29, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

By Joe Roman May 28, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this Maybe it’s time to leave Reitsma in Chicago. I’ve had it. I join the Reeksma club as of now. Cox gave him enough rope to hang himself today, I hope Bobby is tying the knot as I write this.

Hey Joe, I didn’t have to go very far to find you looking a little kettle-colored.

By Miranda

May 29, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

Martin Prado and Will Startup have been promoted to Richmond

I was hoping to get to see Startup one more time in Mississippi before they moved him up again BUT I guess that won’t happen unless for some reason he comes back down

By angie47

May 29, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

kudos to the person who told John S. to get off his butt and find us a closer. the best thing to do is put Smoltz back as closer, train Death Ray as set up man, and find another starter and get rid of Reeksma. tell bobby to quit putting Reeksma in games period. i can’t take anymore of his so-called pitching. he may as well asked the opponent where he wants the ball! somebody save me!

By Joe Roman

May 29, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

For all you defenders of the first amendment, you can climb down from the cross now. You surely know what I’m talking about. Some never have a positive thing to say. Eric The Edler either can’t read or has no memory. Virtually every other post here is ‘Bobby should be fired because he didn’t do…. or did do…”. If that isn’t an “I know better mentality, I don’t know what is.” I wake up on a holiday feeling good and looking for something to make me feel better. I come to this site and people are carrying on as if they were talking about the Kansas City Royals. Maybe it offends those of you who think this is some kind of electronic treehouse, but a lot of people who post here are complusive complainers who denegrate themselves and followers of the Braves and live up to the national reputation Atlanta fans have of faithless, ungrateful dilettantes.

By MBATL

May 29, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

Our forefathers gave their lives to guarantee us the right to blog about baseball (that’s my Memorial Day tie-in.)

There’s a big difference between questioning this move or that, and calling a HOF manager an idiot. None of it really matters - folks should say what they want. But I for one would have to muster quite a bit of bravado before suggesting I knew baseball, or the Braves’ talents, better than Bobby Cox.

To the contrary, when Bobby does something that I “wouldn’t have done”, I try to go to school on it, to learn from one of the best.

Anyway, I still say the Braves have the luxury of time, to try to get Reitsma on track (he obviously has talent), to develop young guys gradually into more responsible roles; and to scour the leagues for help. But that ain’t gonna happen until late July. But remember, closers aren’t just sitting on the shelf waiting for JS to call.

And I don’t know, but I bet Smoltz gets less upset with Reitsma (or any other of his teammates) when they blow a save than many people in here do. Suspect he’s pulling for Reitsma to get it right.

By Chop Chop

May 29, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this

I started Thomson today in my fantasy league. It’s going to take a week to get those numbers down.

By Marc

May 29, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

I think the real Thomson has now stood up. What is this, like 4 bad starts in a row. What a joke the only thing more demoralizing then having a lead blown in the ninth, is putting your team down 4 runs in the top of the fourth. So we didn’t trade Thomson, he had a few good starts, now he stinks and we can’t trade him.

Has everyone noticed that this team can’t beat the good teams, they make amazing comebacks against the Marlins, and Cubs, but get killed against decent teams. With Brad Penny on the mound, maybe the Braves will break the 20 mark in strikeouts.

By Marc

May 29, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

Meant to say, put you team down four in the top of the first.

I think the real Thomson has now stood up. What is this, like 4 bad starts in a row. What a joke the only thing more demoralizing then having a lead blown in the ninth, is putting your team down 4 runs in the top of the first. So we didn’t trade Thomson, he had a few good starts, now he stinks and we can’t trade him.

Has everyone noticed that this team can’t beat the good teams, they make amazing comebacks against the Marlins, and Cubs, but get killed against decent teams. With Brad Penny on the mound, maybe the Braves will break the 20 mark in strikeouts.

By Chuck E.

May 29, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

Three first-inning errors didn’t help, but this game is so ugly so early, I’m not sure I’ll be able to look away (and the second inning is all on JT.

It’s like watching World’s Nuttiest Police Chases or whatever that show is called. You know you shouldn’t wtach, but you can’t stop.

By Bryan Price

May 29, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

What is the latest news on the speculation of Braves Asst. GM Dayton Moore going to the Royals? There have been rampant rumors both ways…common wisdom is that Glass will not give Moore autonomy over the organization, thus quashing the possibility. Any thoughts?

By Deep Dixie Royal Blue

May 29, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this

Bryan,

Scan up a ways and you’ll see David’s answer to my own question yesterday on this topic:

“And yes, there’s a good chance Dayton could be leaving, if Royals give him complete control. But that’s all I know. He’s not returned calls in a while, which tells me it’s serious.”

No news is not good news, in my opinion. If the Glassholes were ceding him the authority he’s rightly asked for, I think we would have already had an announcement.

By craig t

May 29, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

John Thompson has come back down to earth, no chance of trading him now, not that the Braves are in a position to with all of the injuries to their starters. Six errors in the last two games isnt an encouraging sign either. I noticed Pete van Wieren saying today he didnt remember so many high scoring games as the Braves have been in this year

By Ron Roberts

May 29, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t read a whole lot into today’s performance, other than to gripe about the schedule-makers putting us down for a day game, but the Dodgers had to play it, too, coming in after traveling.

Booting the ball around in the first was the game, in a nutshell.

Thomson didn’t look bad, today; the infielders behind him did.

By geauxbraves2000

May 29, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

The defense and JT let the team down today, but today just turned out to be one of those games. I would love to see the Braves win every game they play, but we all know that won’t happen, so just chalk this game up as one of the 54. The only thing that really irritated me today is LaRoche swinging at the first pitch from a brand new pitcher and ground into the double play, ending the rally and pretty much any chance the Braves had. It’s not the double play so much for that happens, but doing it on the first pitch. Anyone who grounds into a double play on the first pitch, especially just after a pitching change, should be fined.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 29, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

it is 5:23 pm and there’s no recap from dob of today’s game, so, as before, journalist jimmy smith is pressed into service. 41,000 plus fans in attendance on memorial day and mia hamm. baby seal approached mia hamm in the third inning (dresses as small fan). unfortunately, security was called. now, the game … braves lose. score was 12-8. infield play was very sloppy. left side is a sieve. right side is lazy. up the middle is so-so. now, conditioning … are these players in good shape? now, more mia hamm … baby seal was detained for a time and released into journalist jimmy smith’s custody. baby seal begged to go back to mia hamm. reluctantly, jimmy smith allowed baby seal to work his way down the aisle wearing a francoeur jersey and baseball cap. jersey was long and obscured flippers. mia hamm was most cordial to baby seal and provided autographs for both seal and journalist. now, game … it seems the braves did not wish to play this game in the heat. better luck tomorrow when sosa faces sele. yes, that’s right … sele. baby seal is most excited. now, bobby cox … manager is sporting a new look in dugout with designer sunglasses- that’s right, sunglasses! manager must remember not to touch lens during game for fear of smear.

By baby seal

May 29, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

MIA HAMM !!!

mia hamm very nice to seal. security not so much. now sele… seal has done research like daddy jimmy smith and has learned that pitcher sele is not related to seal. not even part seal. may not even like singer seal. but pitches well lately. is hoping for 18 strikeouts. now cordero and rodney… these are two good closer type pitchers who are not closing right now. could braves get? maybe not because both play for contenders (texas and detroit).

By hk

May 29, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

… Braves era jumped from 4.25 to 4.45 last two games, team BA from .264 to .268 … ‘MVP’ curves …

here

By Kulpow

May 29, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

Who is this Jimmy Smith idiot? Where did you learn how to write ENGLISH? My God man! idiot city…Go Marlins

By Carolina Lady

May 29, 2006 07:01 PM | Link to this

(whisper) jimmy, it was 12 - 5, I think…..

By journalist jimmy smith

May 29, 2006 07:05 PM | Link to this

much to jimmy smith’s amazement, baby seal has again posted on this blog! this is not jimmy smith doing these posts. perhaps, baby seal has obtained a blackberry - maybe from mia hamm! baby seal seems smitten. what does mia hamm see in nomar? now, brad penny … big pitcher killed a cooler and shouted at his coaches when pulled from today’s game. injured second baseman jeff kent did not play today. lucky for braves, his replacement drove in only 5 runs. the dodgers left 17 men on base today. interesting fact about aaron sele, his nickname is also “none”.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 29, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

carolina lady is right the score was 12-5. now, journalist jimmy smith was walking down the ramp and it was 12-5, but when journalist got to the ramp’s bottom there was a thunderous cheer and jimmy smith figured it was about a 3-run cheer. rather than climb that ramp again, jimmy smith took journalistic license and that is how the erroneous score came to be reported. forgive jimmy smith for this error - the first of journalist jimmy smith’s career doing journalism. these ramps are tough on journalists with all the cheese consumption and these bellies we must carry everywhere. hello, jackasss … a jackasss by any name is still friend jackasss.

By yars

May 29, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this

The Braves have had an up and down season so far. We’re still a few games above .500, but can’t seem to beat decent teams, even at home. Don’t give me the excuse that the team is tired and it was hot today. These are professional athletes who get paid extremely well and who are supposed to produce in these situations. The Dodgers seemed ok to me. The Braves need to make some changes real soon. LaRoche has been on the Braves long enough so they know what to expect from him. I wouldn’t expect too much from him the rest of the season. Brian Jordan is no better. I really hope this is his last year on the team. Please JS, don’t be nice and invite him to spring training in ‘07 as a non-roster invitee again. What the heck is wrong with Chipper? Like LaRoche, he’s nothing but a rally killer this season and he’ll be lucky to hit 20 HR. He doesn’t look comfortable at the plate. He looks overmatched and as if he has no power anymore. These lazy ground outs to first aren’t getting the job done. The Braves need a solid LF and a 1B ASAP. Langerhans can play good defense, but we need someone with more pop in their bat. Matt Diaz is not an everyday player. He’s a good 4th OF. Nothing more, nothing less. BC should go with a closer by committee bullpen. Reitsma has proven that he’s not a closer. The all-star break is slowly vreeping up and if the Braves are more than 5 games out of first at the break, don’t expect them to win the NL East. As for the NL wildcard, there are a host of teams that will be in the hunt for that so as of right now, it’s winning the East or bust. Let’s hope JS can cook up a trade or 2 to improve this team. I don’t think it can wait too much longer. The Mets are the real deal, the Phillies are not that bad, and the Braves can only sweep lousy teams.

By fart

May 29, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

time to get rid of Thomson,time to trade Salty and Larew to the fish for Dontrelle and time to see what we can get for Thomson,it we can’t get anything for him then release him.

By Ipfreely

May 29, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this

The NY Muts sux,Omer minaya suxs,the whole Muts team suxs,anf the whole state of New York suxs,also Frank Robinson and his Nats suxs,Braves will win it all especially if they get Dontrelle,Trade Salty to the Marlis now for Dontrelle.aint got to worry bout the Phils as they are a bunch of retards.

By Tomahawkin

May 29, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

By Yars, It seems like you’re panicking after 50 games into the season. You’re right Reeksma Sucks and LaRoche ain’t cuttin it…. Don’t give up yet, if you remember the braves were 8,1/2 out in late june of 2001 and you should know the rest… I’m wiiting for our annual june bloom

BTW I’ll admit it Chipper has no range at third, he is half the defenseiveman that Scott Rolen is, I still love Chipper, especially the young Chipper, he needs to act like the young Chipper again…maybe he will return to form….Cocky and arrogant

Oh Yeah, Does anyone Know why Andruw was taken out so early????

And I don’t want to hear the excuse that the Braves got in late, and didn’t get no sleep, He!! I’m lucky to get over 5 hours of sleep so that excuse that Pete (on TBS) said on the air ain’ gone work…

By Tomahawkin

May 29, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

Funny How ESPN Claims that Omar Minaya is the Greatest GM ever, NOT!

D.O.B. You Must Hate ESPN as Much as I do..

ESPN SUCKS!

AS far as today, We deserved to lose, But LaRoche Killed all our Momentum with that Double Play, and don’t let me get started on that pop up with him and Giles

By Americus

May 29, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

Any chance the Pirates might part with Damasco Marte by July 31st?

By hoho

May 30, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

please retire this subject. start a new blog- 4 days is just too long for folks to linger on the same blog. yawn. not like we ever stay on the topic anyway, but it seems to invited some nonsense,etc.

why not have something for the weekend? surely DOB does it enough, he’s kept this thing going. perhaps a guest writer. i know, perhaps we should all get out a little more.

this team has me worried a bit, can’t beat a team with a winning record as some of y’all have pointed out. the braves historically feast on the weak teams and struggle against the good ones. then what happens come october? we all know too well.

it was good to see them get to penny a bit today, too little too late though. paronto let all hope disappear with that 3 run homer he gave up. we’ll get ‘em tomorrow, let’s hope.

no sense in booing furcal- he was a good brave. no sense in booing estrada later this week- he was a good brave too (although he has sounded a little bitter, should have kept him and let him play twice a week or so. would have been better than pratt and he’s proven he can start and hit. oh well, if if, woulda, shoulda)

By berigan

May 30, 2006 02:49 AM | Link to this

I see people still want Smoltz to be the closer, but his 39 year old elbow can’t take it! Don’t ya’ll recall how Cox would have him get up in games that he never pitched in? You see a lot of good closers disappear after a few years. Even though Cox never pitched Wolhers more than 77 innings in a year, he was washed up at the age of 28. Remember 100 MPH’er Billy Koch? Hasn’t pitched in the Majors since 2004. Leave Smoltz in the rotation already!

By Ron Roberts

May 30, 2006 07:57 AM | Link to this

Man, griping about LaRoche’s double-play is one thing, but really, Giles’ missing a pop-up was his fault, too?

Some of ya’ll need to get off the run LaRoche outta town drivel. The guy hit /310 on the road with 3 HR and 10 RBI. Maybe if the home crowd would get off his @$$ long enough, he’d be as comfortable at home and would produce like that.

I don’t get some of our fan contingent - I really don’t. We’re such a jaded bunch. We’re such a fickle, blase’ bunch. Fourteen years of playoff baseball, and yet we can’t pack our park when it matters. Fourteen years of playoff baseball, and we have to run our manager out on a rail because he can’t capture lightning in a bottle come October, most years. Fourteen years of playoff baseball and we have to ride a guy outta town because he only averages 20 HRs a year at a “percieved” power-hitting position when we have a centerfielder who can crank 40-50 out a year, as it is.

Try this one… try rooting FOR the players once in awhile.

By geauxbraves2000

May 30, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this

DOB, anyone, why have I now seen Tim Hudson’s name twice in the rumor mill. Now the Houston paper is saying they could package some people and get Hudson or Willis. What’s up? One would think surely they can’t be serious.

By Jennifer

May 30, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

YAWN……………..

By Ron Roberts (for real)

May 30, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

Hmmm, trade a Tim Hudson for a Brad Lidge and 1B Mike Lamb? I could see that. Lamb’s played in 31 games, hits .277 average, (.351 this season), which would give us a good platoon option at 1B (he hits very well against lefties, while LaRoche does not), and push Brian Jordan back out to a LF platoon situation. That makes Langerhans or Matt Diaz potential trade fodder, as well.

The only problem I have with this trade is that Thomson’s looked really shaky the past four starts, I’m still not convinced that Sosa’s back to form yet, Smoltie’z over-worked (yet been great for the most part), Davies is on the mend, and we just got Horacio back so God only knows how reliable and consistent he’ll be. So our depth in starting pitchers would take a hit, and remove a potential 15-game winner from the rotation.

By student

May 30, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

Sigh. Brad Lige has been terrible. He’s not the Astros closer anymore because of this. So, why exactly would the braves want to give up something for him? A pretty terrible idea. And why trade for a closer when you already have a guy who might be the answer in the bullpen.

By xavier

May 30, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

Trade Hudson? If Smoltz goes down (likely) then you have no reliable starters, and you join the dregs of the league like Washington, Pittsburgh and Chicago.

By David O'Brien

May 30, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

Citizens of the blogosphere: I had a travel day Monday and am off today. I’ll be back on the case tomorrow.

I wasn’t given an option of blogging Monday. No one was. The folks at office don’t post blogs on holidays, and we can’t post them on our own; we ship them to someone at office to post them.

I’m going out to run errands, mow lawn, be a normal person for the afternoon. But I did want to address two things: The TIm Hudson think. Stop worrying about it. I don’t care if it appeared somewhere else (Houston, after NY Post) because I know how this biz works, and that’s just one writer seeing the rumor on ESPN’s Rumor Mill and deciding that, hey, if he’s available, Astros might be able to package something to get him.

As I said before, Braves wouldn’t trade Hudson unless they were out of contention in July, and I’d be willing to wager they’re not out of contention _ at least not THAT far out of contention, enough to trade one of their aces _ in July.

There’s nothing of sustance to this rumor. NOTHING. Just speculation that he’d be available if Braves are out of it. I don’t disagree with that, but it’s irrelevent because they’re not playing like a team that’s going to be out of it before July 31. And if a team with 14 cons. division titles is close enough to make a run, believe me they’re not going to trade an ace starting pitcher before the deadline. No way.

So unless they’re 10 out or more by July 31 _ and that’s just a number I’m coming up with off top of my head _ they aren’t going to consider dealing him. Remember how quickly they just cut a 10-game lead to 3-1/2 games. Two weeks.

And the schedule is backloaded with home games.

By BOB C

May 30, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

With all our bullpen worries (easily solved by just throwing Ray out there unti he proves he can’t do it), there is a very bright spot - Brayan Pena - who looks very much like this year’s Frenchy, McCann, Davies etc. Last year he looked so overmatched but the great at bat where he moved the runner up from second in Chicago was done like a 10-yeqar veteran. He’s going to make the next 15 days seem not quite so gloomy.

By David O'Brien

May 30, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

obviously I meant to write Tim Hudon “thing” not “think”…

And as for Lidge, Braves have an interest, but it wouldn’t involve Hudson, believe me. it would involve much lesser talent in return, because Lidge’s trade value has fallen considerable since offseason.

Do I think Lidge could help? Of course. Even if he’s not what he once was, he could help this pen as closer or setup guy. And if the Astros simply overworked him, as many believe _ look at the innings and appearances past couple of seasons, you’ll see they did overwork him _ then maybe he can be an All-Star closer again with rest and change of scenery.

That said, I wouldn’t give up a huge prospect or solid young player for him, certainly not a Salty-caliber prospect.

Oh, and gotta say this: You folks on the bash-LaRoche trip start to look silly when you dwell on him as a reason for this loss or that one, without any regard for actual statistics or production. He’s the least of their concerns right now. Or very low on the list, at least. The guy’s had one of the best two or three months on the roster. Look at the numbers and don’t go on your emotions.

To lump him with Reitsma is simply ignorant. One stupid play does not a season make. And he’s not striking out or hitting .200 like he did in May. He’s hit about .285 with four homers and 17-18 RBIs in May, with an OBP near .400.

By Ron Roberts

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

LaRoche also hit .310 with 3 HR and 10 RBI on the road…

…maybe he ain’t the problem. Maybe it’s the cynical fanbase he plays 50% of his games in front of…

By John

May 30, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

LaRoche is not the problem,the problem si more than him,i personally feel the whole team is to blame especially the inconsistent bullpen,I’m sure there are a lot of teams who would love to have LaRoche and would appreciate him,so what if he don’t hit left handers,when lefties pitch let Jordan play,rest Laroche,he does have some pop in his bat,he can hit 20 to 30 homers per year and drive in 70 t 80 runs per year.thats not bad.So i agree lay off of Laroche.if you are gonna blame anyone blame Bobby Cox for his inept decisions sticking with Reitsma.

By Wayno

June 3, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

Looks like Game one today won’t be televised thanks to Fox’s asinine Blackout policy. Thanks again Fox. Why is NOTHING written about this in the AJC????

By Ron Evans

June 4, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox must be crazy! He has no relief pitching, hitting and the starting pitchers are starting to give up. Cox better start begging for some talent or else this group is doomed. The Braves have done it in the past—grab the check book because we don’t have any hope.