Braves

By Vol

June 1, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

When I see some of the stats for other closers, I’m glad that we didn’t shell out big bucks in the offseason. It gives us a little more flexibility prior to the trade deadline. There are some bad numbers out there.

I think Ray is the guy, at least from the group we’ve got now. It reminds me a little of Greg McMichael several years ago, who came out of nowhere and rescued us. Ray throws harder, but he’s a fastball-changeup guy that anybody could have had. Still doesn’t mean much if Reitsma and the gang give up 3 runs in the eighth every night. I hope other teams don’t figure him out now that’s he’s probably on everybody’s radar.

By TennesseePaul

June 1, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

Nice post DOB: Couple of corrections, Death Ray pitched last night in the blow out against Los Angeles. And then there was the agency/agent switch in there somewhere.
Thanks for addressing the Hudson stuff. I was getting spent on that. But we’ll see if that quiets the talk. The Chipper to First talk still pops up despite the resounding “no’s” you put out there.

I love Death Ray. I hope he keeps this up for the rest of the year. It would just make his amazing journey that much better. Plus it would help us win more games. We’d be up with the Mets or above them if not for all those wasted wins from Villarreal and Reitsma.

I see all this Smoltz talk about next year. I can’t imagine him in another uniform. I especially can’t imagine the team not picking him up. I’d like to see him pitch like a champion for the next 50 years, but I guess everyone deserves a break. I love his commercials. Something about them just cracks me up. He just seems like a really good guy.

DOB: Thanks for clearing up the Cormier issue. I hadn’t really dug through his stats. But when you put it like that, it makes sense. So far though, I’m not impresses with Yates.

What’s the word on Chuck James?

LET’S WIN TONIGHT BRAVES!! Gotta get ‘em back for that 13-0 game. Get ‘em back good.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 1, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

ah, yes, a new blog. refreshing like a cold bite of cheese. journalist jimmy smith responded to carolina lady and to chop chop on the last blog. sorry for the confusion - journalism is very demanding. up the ramp, down the ramp, up the ram, then down the ramp. this is taxing on the journalists of this city. everyone knows not to ride the ballpark elevator. so, it’s up the ramp, down the ramp even for the old journalsit who could have the elevator to himself if you know what jimmy smith means. now, journalist jimmy smith picked right up on dob’s clever remark suggesting “kolbian” might soon be updated. journalist has pondered and come up with “reitsmanian” and “reitsmaniac”. is this acceptable usage? only dob can decide. now, cape buffalo … carolina lady there is much you should know about the cape buffalo. not to trifled with for sure. now, pitchers with no-neck. highly touted (for two weeks) pitcher with no neck does not appear to be as effective as less-regarded pitcher with no neck. which would you take to a ballgame?

By Voice of Reason

June 1, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

I believe that this team is capable of putting together a run as long as JS addresses the obvious bullpen woes, which he almost assuredly will. The only question I have is to what degree is help available? There aren’t any obvious solutions, outside of divine intervention, and I haven’t seen any evidence that God’s a Braves fan. Let’s remember, however, that JS did pull a Farnsworth out of his nether regions last year, so the precedent is there. (OK, that visual was kinda creepy…) Anyway, I’m sure something will happen eventually that we can all wail and gnash our teeth about. Also, big 6’8” 250 lb. Phil Stockman is putting up what Cormier referred to as “Bugs Bunny” numbers at AAA. In 23.2 innings at Richmond, he has allowed only 3 ER’s and has 31 K’s against only 10 BB’s.

By eric the elder

June 1, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

mbatl, you seemed to take exception to something I said on last night’s blog, so I’ll try to clarify. I had mentioned that while many of us are calling for Ray to be given a shot at closer, Bobby seemed to be thumbing his nose at us by bring Ray into last night’s game for mop up duties. It was meant to be a mildly humorous remark, but it didn’t sit well with you. You wrote, “god, everything is open to question, isn’t it.” I wasn’t questioning Bobby’s move or criticizing him - - just noting the irony.

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

Apparently Ray was known to be only able to get out lefties (strangely, given that he’s a RHP) before the season. But, he’s done almost exactly as well vs. righties as lefties. Yeah, give him a shot, and hopefully soon enough to gauge how desparate we are prior to the trading deadline.

Guess Smoltz will be in limbo until the ownership thing is settled… that’s a shame. If he keeps up anything near his current pace, $8 mil next year would be a bargain; and what a PR disaster for the Braves to just say goodbye to him. Hopefully, they’ll make this move soon as possible.

By Marc

June 1, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

What’s confusing about sending Cormier down, is that Bobby or John gave up on him so quickly. I mean come on I mean giving up 12 hits and 13 runs in his last nine outings isn’t so bad. Just look at Reeksma, that dude could give up 50 runs in 20 appearances and Bobby would say, “Reits has thrown the ball well, just got a couple of pitches up”. If I were Cormier I would pay Reeksma to share a little of what he has on the Braves.

I think at this point the Braves have to go with Ray, if for no other reason then to see if they need to trade for a closer. If Ray kicks a**, then the Braves could trade for a less expensive set-up guy, or an outfielder, or first baseman. And if Ray stinks what have you lost, it’s not as if Reeksma would have done better.

Go Braves!!!!!!!!!!

By eric the elder

June 1, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else disgusted by the Astro’s deal with Clemens? He’s getting $12.4 million for half a season. If he starts 20 games and throws 100 pitches per game, that’s over $6000 per pitch! Yes, I would take the money if it were offered, so don’t start on me. However, I wonder whether we will reach a time when the disconnect between obscenely wealthy athletes and the average joes who are expected to watch them might become too great.

By Dr. Jay

June 1, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this

Uhhhh…whatever, Jimmy.

I’d been spiraling in a downward funk lately regarding the Braves, but the Kenny Ray 9th last night was a beautiful thing and restored a little faith. Who knows what will happen, but just to see a guy come in with an air of confidence and throw strikes…how wonderful.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 1, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

eric the elder, there are certain bloggers who do not wish to see bobby cox and the word “nose” in the same sentence. tender sensibilities. friend mbatl is a loyal defender of bobby cox and sometimes takes this journalist to task for comments that are made about bobby cox or uh, chipper jones. still, mbatl is a good fan and has loyalty for the right team. now, your comment last night was reasonable to this journalist. ray was inserted in a mop-up role rather than that of a closer. why would that portend him as closer rather than just a guy sent out to get three outs with a six run lead? don’t read too much into this … when the time comes to protect a one, two, or three run lead in the ninth inning we will see for whom bobby cox calls. journalist jimmy smith hopes bobby will call ray of hope. voice, journalist jimmy smith thought God was a braves’ fan back when marshall mann was the ballpark announcer. those announcements just rumbled through the stadium. in this journalist’s opinion marshall mann was the best ever. can hear him now … “coming in to pitch the ninth inning for the atlanta braves …” sorry, can’t reveal that just yet but marshall mann probably knows.

By Kentavo

June 1, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

Give Death Ray a shot at closer. Either send Reeksma packing, or to Richmond to work on becoming a starter. Relieving obviously is not his thing.

By Voice of Reason

June 1, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

Anybody else see the irony in the Devil Rays playing the Angels on 6/6/6?

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

jjs, thanks (I think?). I am a ‘loyalist.’ Braves and Bobby Cox history have trained me so. I don’t usually know what the H you’re talking about, but who cares… many people obviously do!

Ray did get a couple of save opps last weekend (granted, one was in the 146th inning, or something). I think Bobby is indeed working him into the role.

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Should be a devil of a game, VOR. Probably will be hot as h**ll in Tampa.

By SR

June 1, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

DOB, you have nailed it with this blog- Cormier has stunk lately, Reitsma, Villareal, and most of the other flotsam and jetsam known as the bullpen have stunk all year. Seriously, how often do you see any of these bums come in and have a 1,2, 3 inning? Almost never. The statistics you cited above are telling, as well as others not mentioned, e.g., inherited runners scoring, batting average against, walks to strikeouts and so on and so on.

I admire the optimism of some of my fellow posters on the blog but alas, I cannot share it until this bullpen mess is straightened out. I don’t have faith in a single one of them and until Ken Ray proves himself over the course of the season, imo the jury is still out on him as well, especially in key games down the stretch.

Lastly, how hard do you think the D’backs are finding it not to laugh and gloat that they pawned off a used carburetor and a lug nut for an all star catcher? Give me a break.

By Tony Almeida

June 1, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

DOB - Why did the Chinese have to kidnap Jack Bauer after all his hard work that day?

By student

June 1, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Oh, I don’t think the Estrada trade was that bad. Villereal has been a little better than his stats, although only a little, but Estrada was damaged goods, he hadn’t looked the same since the collision and had only one really good year behind him. It was hard to tell if he would ever really get back into form and the Braves thought (quite rightly) that McCann was their guy. So, they had no place for Estrada and needed to get something for him, it wasn’t that bad a deal.

By Voice of Reason

June 1, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Jack Bauer could save this bullpen…

By Tony Almeida

June 1, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

Put Jack Bauer in a closed room with this bullpen, he’ll get results.

By Rob

June 1, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

What are the prospects of Phil Stockman helping out in the bullpen? In 30 innings this year he’s given up 12 hits, 12 walks while striking out 43 w/ an 0.70 ERA. Where is he on the Braves radar?

By Nelson

June 1, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

THIS IS NOT MINE, I GOT IT FROM THE BRAVES VENTS, BUT IT IS VERY, VERY GOOD!

In this age of CDs and iPOD\s, the Braves keep playing a scratched record: “Reitsma blows another save… Reitsma blows another save… Reitsma blows another save…Reitsma blows another save…”

By SR

June 1, 2006 05:56 PM | Link to this

Well, just a difference of opinion, no biggie. While I agree that they had no place for Estrada considering the emergence of McCann,I do not agree that the deal was anything near equal, especially when comparing Estrada’s performance to date to those of Villareal and Cormier.

By Chop Chop

June 1, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

Tony, Bauer couldn’t save you this time. You had to know Henderson was playing possum. You had to! Michelle was pretty hot, though. Worth dying to avenge? Probably not, but she was easy on the eyes.

By Voice of Reason

June 1, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

We may see Stockman and Startup before this season is over…

By David O'Brien

June 1, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Kelly Johnson done for this season. He had to have Tommy John reconstructive elbow surgery. Should be ready for spring training, but not definite.

Marc, the Cormier-Reitsma comparison is pretty much irrelevent. By that I mean, one of them’s making $2.75 million and, more importantly, has no options (Reitsma). You can’t send him down without having him first clear waivers. Cormier is making $375,000 and had minor league options, so it’s a simple transaction, no risk involved, etc.

That’s the system and you have to make moves within the system that make sense, not just emotion decisions or decisions based entirely on recent performance. Just the way it is.

By Trinidad

June 1, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this

We gave up Kevin Millwood to get Johnny Estrada who we traded away to get sore-armed hasbeens Cormier and Villareal.

And John Schuerholz is a genius ?

By Voice of Reason

June 1, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

Hey, what about Bobo the Elephant? I remember the ump saying, “There’s nothing in the rulebook says an elephant can’t play baseball.” He helped the Sweetwater Snooks beat the Greenville Goons. And he worked for peanuts!

By Adam

June 1, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this

Thats too bad about Johnson. Not only do I think that he could have helped our team this year, but he also could have been used as part of a package to get a closer.

By KneeJerk

June 1, 2006 06:33 PM | Link to this

Do you actually think Bobby is “thumbing his nose” at a blogger? How vain! I don’t think Cox makes moves based on what we think. Cox doesn’t know what we think, because I seriously doubt he reads this. Get over yourself.

By ernesto

June 1, 2006 06:35 PM | Link to this

You know as much as everyone (and rightfully so) jumps all over Reitsma, I don’t feel any better when I see Villareal coming in. He has so many wins because he’s coughed up so many leads and has had the good fortune of getting bailed out. Each and every one of his wins doesn’t represent a hold or a stellar “stop the bleeding” job, they’re all blown leads. He was filthy in the WBC, but since he donned the tomahawk, he’s stunk it up. I could see both him and CR moved to mop up duty until they show they have a ltitle something else.

By ChrisinPA

June 1, 2006 06:36 PM | Link to this

DOB -

1) If you haven’t seen the Hudson “rumor” on ESPN, it is from the NY Post - I wouldn’t expect anything less from a NY paper when it comes to the Braves…Hudson is going nowhere - I agree. I think the Atl. Journal Constitution should run a article stating that Pedro will be dealt if the Mets fall out of contention…see if it makes the ESPN Rumor-Mill.

2) Also on the ESPN Rumor-Mill, it states that Carl Crawford “may” be dealt, and I know the Rays have a ton of outfield prospects, so this doesn’t seem all that strange, although I know Crawford is a huge talent…any chance the Braves could package a deal for Crawford - I would love to see him at the top of the line-up!! Crawford, Renteria/Giles, Chipper, Andruw, Giles/Renteria/McCann, whoever is left over, Frenchy, LaRoche, Langy?

3) LaRoche to Detroit for RP/Closer Rodney and Betemit at 1B!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Marc

June 1, 2006 06:41 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, thanks for addressing my blog. I wasn’t suggesting that Reitsma be sent down. I think Reitsma actually mighnt be valuable in a 7th or 8th inning role. I was merely stating that he has been given enough opportunities to be the closer. I was comparing the Braves sending Cormier down, for another questionable pitcher, and refusing to demote Reitsma out of the closer role. In this day and age of baseball paying a guy $2.75 million, to set-up is nothing. The Yankees pay Farnsworth a billion dollars to set up. I just can’t understand BC’s refusal to replace Reitsma. BC had no problems replacing Kolb pretty quickly, and he was making more.

I simply think it is time for Reitsma to assuma a setup role, maybe that will spark him, and who knows maybe Ray will flourish in the closer role. I don’t think this hurts the team to try this.

By ncscoots

June 1, 2006 07:03 PM | Link to this

hey, I think Fernando Rodney would be a great addition, too, but please, let’s get OVER the Betemit-at-first stuff. Good grief. The guy has played the LEFT side of the infield all his life, and you folks think he can just put on the right mitt and play first well?!? Puh-leeze. WB is a solid palyer, no doubt, but there is NO one in the first 8 that he should replace on an every-day basis. Let’s get over it, huh?

By eric the elder

June 1, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

KneeJerk, I’m shocked. Shocked! After all these years, I’m just now finding out that Bobby doesn’t make moves based on what we think? I’m so embarrassed.

What’s worse, you’re saying that Bobby doesn’t read these blogs? And so he doesn’t even KNOW what we think? How could I have been so stupid!

In my own defense, I would point out that the “thumbing his nose” part was meant metaphorically, but there is no way that a patronizing imbecile like you would know what that means.

I’m not sure what the “Knee” part signifies, but the “Jerk” part is right on the money.

By jennifer

June 1, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

PLAY BALL!!!

By Bob, journalist

June 1, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith,

Just a short note to let you know that you stumpted me again with “Mr. McElveen” … though I assume that “Tilly” was a reference to the original ATM tout … and your post followed the one in which I referenced the North Avenue/Peachtree Bank location.

As an aside, I’ve sent you 2 previous posts today … but each one failed … due to “excessive connections” to the Blog.

It is good to see both you and The Lady in good spirits and going strong!!

Keep up the good fight …

By TennesseePaul

June 1, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this

Bummer about Johnson. Thanks for the update DOB. You’ll probably have to repeate it about 20 million times from here until the offseason, but whatever.

The Estrada Trade is quite the conundrum. Estrada, at the time of the trade had very little value. He hadn’t proven that the injury was a one year deal. But even still, we replaced Estrada with McCann who, aside from the DL trip, has been vastly superior to any and all other NL catchers. The only way to have obtained a lot for Estrada would have been to keep him, let McCann ride the pine or be sent back down, and then trade Estrada once he heats up. The problem with that is, it wouldn’t have helped one bit, we probably still would get some crappy relievers (because we’re still looking for ‘em and no team is in dire need of a catcher and has relievers to spare.) Plus we’d have risked the possibility that McCann would suffer from the secondary status that would have been put upon him.

Estrada and Millwood… Estrada made the All-Star team. Millwood proceeded to lose for 3 straight seasons. That was a pretty good deal.

By TennessePaul

June 1, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this

Great post DOB. Thanks DOB. YOu are the greatest DOB. I love you DOB. Will you pay some attention to me, DOB?

Thanks DOB.

By TennesseePaul

June 1, 2006 08:00 PM | Link to this

Cute. Wondered when it would happen.

By Bob, journalist

June 1, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

It’s never good news to hear of young players requiring major surgery … but, sometimes it’s a blessing in disguise. Kelly Johnson, like Brian McCann, seems like of the really good guys that could exceed everyone’s expectations.

DOB, is it fair to read your statement as saying the surgery has already been performed and the outlook is favorable?

I know that Tommy John Surgery is now common but have heard of it only in connection with pitchers … do you know if TJ Surgery still refers to the type of Elbow Reconstruction Tommy John had or do doctors now use it to refer to a broad class of Elbow Reconstruction Surgeries?

Thanks!

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 08:31 PM | Link to this

eric, If I over-reacted, or mis-interpreted, sorry… meant no harm. I do get kind of p**ssy in here sometimes… my fault.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

i don’t mean to beat a dead horse…..but i will!

that baserunning by renteria (and chippers inability to advance him to 3rd by pulling the ball), is exactly the kind of MENTAL errors that i’m talking about. Oh, and what do ya know……it’s a tight ballgame.

Does this mean that Edgar & Chipper should be shipped out? No, just get your head in the game!

By David

June 1, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this

Dave,

I have noticed in the past years, the starting pitcher for the next game would chart the pitches from the locker room under Leo. This year I have seen them on the bench watching the game and not charting the game. Is it correct to assume that this is Roger’s idea … or maybe just there is not much value in charting pitches. Thank!

By nathan

June 1, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

Saw that coming……how does the old saying go? Get em on, get over & get em in.

or was it…..

Get em on, get thrown out at 3rd, and hit into an inning ending double play.

Now if LaRoche would’ve hit a 3 run homer, everybody would say I was making somthin’ out of nuthin’!

But I wasn’t, was I?

I know you guys hate my sarcasm. But tell me I’m wrong.

By David O'Brien

June 1, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

Bob, don’t know for sure, but believe TJ surgery still specific type, not a broad class.

Many other than pitchers have had it. Cesar Izturis immediately comes to mind.

By David O'Brien

June 1, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this

And yes, surgery already done. Today.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this

Horacio is surprising me. I kinda thought that his rookie year was a little bit of a fluke. And that we were all waiting for this great staple of the rotation all for nothing. But he seems to have goin on right now, which is a pleasent surprise.

By the way……Good Evening everybody!

By ssiscribe

June 1, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

Shame about Kelly Johnson. Such a pretty swing, and you couldn’t help but root for him during that 1-for-30 stretch to start his big-league career last season. Hopefully, he’s ready for spring training.

HoRam looks sharp again tonight. Let’s see. HoRam’s pitching well through a start and a half. Hudson and Smoltz had great Mays, and Sosa has been really sharp of late. Looks like that vaunted pitching rotation is beginning to come into focus.

DOB, I agree with you about Arizona. Really surprised at the way they’ve played, but I think they’re going to be in the race the whole way. The West is funny. Last year, nobody wanted to be above .500. This year, they’re all above .500. You knew the Dodgers would be good and the Padres, too, but the Rockies and D’Backs have been better than advertised. I think the Giants’ age will catch up with them, and I just don’t see Bonds playing a full season. Otherwise, those four teams all may hit Labor Day with a shot at it.

HoRam, one hit through five. Ah, who will Bobby trot to the hill in the ninth if the Braves lead by one? Sting Ray to the rescue!

And alas, a great mention of a great man from the fine journalist Jimmy Smith. I can close my eyes and still hear Marshall Mann’s voice reveberating through the old stadium. That barratone “Leading off, center fielder, No. 22, Brett Butler … batting fourth, left fielder, No. 3, Dale Murphy … and pitching, batting ninth, No. 47, Tom Glavine.” Ah, great memories indeed.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 08:51 PM | Link to this

nscoots……just skimming through above posts, tryin to catch up. While reading your comments about Betemit being on the left side of the infield “his whole life”, I for the most part agree with you (and I was one of the few saying “try it”). It would be a lot easier said than done. But it’s not like it hasn’t been done before. Nomar has done it this year. But I will give you that he new all offseason that that was where he was going to play & had all spring to work on it.

But he could start taking ground balls for a few weeks and see how he feels. I’d rather see him get “regular” right handed at bats in a platoon, than give those AB’s to Jordan.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 08:54 PM | Link to this

TBS just showed a stat on Langerhans that he still leads the team with RISP. This stat totally supports my post earlier today, suggesting that he should be in the 5 hole during McCann’s on the DL. Then when McCann comes back he can bat 7th & put LaRoche 8th.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

ChrisinPA…..I find it ammusing that you read one rumor from the NY Post & call it phony, but in the next sentence, you quote the rumor about Crawford, and ask DOB if you think we could get him.

THEY ARE ALL RUMORS PEOPLE!!!

By HEAD COACH

June 1, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

A leadoff man on second with nobody out and the braves had no chance of scoring , just horrible fundamental baseball.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

I still can’t believe nobody has decided to “argue” with me about Renterias baserunning blunder in a 0 - 0 game!

Come on…..somebody has to have somthing to say, I don’t have any clue what I’m talking about!

By Andy Savoie

June 1, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

 Hello everybody. It's me Andy, back for round 2! (Ready or not **DOB**!!!)As you all remember, me and my lovely wife "Fout'sie" had just gotten married and after a year of marrage Im proud to say that the home fires are still burning 5 nights a week! The other 2 nights I spend with my misstress, Candies, but don't tell Karen that ;)! It's the only way I can keep the excitement and **pizazz** going in my life. 
 Candies tantalizes me with her sexually charaged phone calls when she calls me at work, (Big turn on ladies!) but im sure **DOB** knows what im talking about. ;) 
Anyways, back to my baseball question. This new "co-closer" Kenny Ray, is he any good in the sack? What would you say **DOB**? I would really like to hear what you have to say about this *strapping* young fellow.

Rescue Me is Back!!!

Tuesdays @ 10pm on FX.

Your Pal,

Andrew Savoie MD

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

HEAD COACH……be careful talking about fundamental on these blogs, people don’t like to have their fundamentally sound Braves ripped out playing smart ball.

By Andy Savoie

June 1, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

Hello everybody. It’s me Andy, back for round 2! (Ready or not DOB!!!)As you all remember, me and my lovely wife “Fout’sie” had just gotten married and after a year of marrage Im proud to say that the home fires are still burning 5 nights a week! The other 2 nights I spend with my misstress, Candies, but don’t tell Karen that ;)! It’s the only way I can keep the excitement and pizazz going in my life. Candies tantalizes me with her sexually charaged phone calls when she calls me at work, (Big turn on ladies!) but im sure DOB knows what im talking about. ;)Anyways, back to my baseball question. This new “co-closer” Kenny Ray, is he any good in the sack? What would you say DOB? I would really like to hear what you have to say about this strapping young fellow.

Rescue Me is Back!!!

Tuesdays @ 10pm on FX.

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this

Okay, I’ll bite… Langerhans (leading the team in rbi with RISP, as previously noted) works to a full count, flies out… runner still at 2nd - too bad, but fundamentally, it was right to have him swing away. Pena, rookie catcher, grounds to left side, close play, but thrown out - what else should he have done? Then the pitcher… puts ball in play, again a close play, but to no good effect.

What should we have done, fundamentally, different? Bunted with Langerhans to move runner to 3rd with rookie 8-hole hitter and pitcher coming up? Would have made no difference.

Nathan, was eating dinner, didn’t see the renteria play, or god knows, I’d probably argue with you on that one too.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

i agree about the millwood - estrada trade. as far as i’m concerned we traded 1 dead arm for 2.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

MBATL…hope you enjoyed your dinner!

Renteria led off and inning with a double. After chipper tried and failed to hit the ball to the right side, he hit a fairly hard ground ball to SS (about 5 - 10 feet in front of Renteria), Renteria proceeded to run to 3rd and get thrown out by about 25 feet. Andruw followed with a base hit. (that would’ve scored Renteria from 2nd had he stayed put). Then LaRoche proceeded to hit into an inning ending double play.

Here we sit, still 0 - 0.

1 Run sure would look good right now, the way Ramirez is tossing the ball.

So while I enjoy your sarcasim about the Langerhans inning. It was unwarranted.

But Thankyou for talking to me. I was beginning to think when you all saw me post you shut off your computers! LOL!

By eric the elder

June 1, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

nathan, you seem to have changed from “mental mistakes” to poor fundamentals, and so now I can agree with you. Twice we have failed to move a runner from 2nd with no outs. Chipper and Langy both knew what they should do, so those weren’t mental mistakes, but they failed to execute. The Renteria mess up was definitely a mental error.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

Thank you Eric. Though I guess one could argue that what I called a mental mistake (the whole cutoff throw thing, that I promised not to talk about anymore. LOL) could be considered poor fundamental execution.

But I’ll shut up about that!

I have to go out for a while, so you can all b*h about me while i’m gone…..but i’ll be back and i’ll read the posts that i missed out on:)

By HEAD COACH

June 1, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

langerhans should have bunted the runner to third and even if they walk Pena , you have 1st and 3rd with one out. At least they would have had a chance at getting a ball in play , Ramirez can handle the bat and they would have had a chance for one run. Thats fundamental baseball. O yea bases loaded still 0 to 0 and Im shaking my head.

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

What sarcasm? I don’t see it… anyway, thanks for the recap. Doesn’t sound too good.

Regarding Millwood, Estrada, et al,

Milwood was gonna cost a fortune for us to keep, and we chose not to invest in his future. Guess you could argue we should’ve kept him, paid him bigtime, never acquired Estrada. Don’t know who would’ve caught in ‘04/05, but sure we could’ve come up with a warm body. Johnny did a great job in 04.

When we dealt Estrada, he was damaged goods. Had a terrible 2nd half in 05, and a big question whether he would return to form (he has, good for him). But we also had a backlog of catching (McCann) ready to play.

I was actually in favor of keeping Estrada this past offseason… didn’t think McCann was ready to handle it full time (wrong). But I think we got about all we could for Estrada, given the circumstances, and we don’t need him… Millwood’s been good, not great; glad we’re not paying him $10 mil a year.

By Andy Savoie

June 1, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this

Hello everybody. It’s me Andy, back for round 2! (Ready or not DOB!!!)As you all remember, me and my lovely wife “Fout’sie” had just gotten married and after a year of marriage Im proud to say that the home fires are still burning 5 nights a week! The other 2 nights I spend with my mistress, Candies, but don’t tell Karen that ;)! It’s the only way I can keep the excitement and pizazz going in my life. Candies tantalizes me with her sexually charaged phone calls when she calls me at work, (Big turn on ladies!) but im sure DOB knows what im talking about. ;)Anyways, back to my baseball question. This new “co-closer” Kenny Ray, is he any good in the sack? What would you say DOB? I would really like to hear what you have to say about this strapping young fellow.

Rescue Me is Back!!!

Tuesdays @ 10pm on FX.

DOB = back door only ladies ;)

By nathan

June 1, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

MBATL… I didn’t realize that there was a runner on 2nd and nobody out with Langerhans up. I thought you were being sarcastic! Sorry :) I must’ve been too busy typing one of my epic posts! LMAO!

I agree with you about Millwood. JS did the right thing.

By MBATL

June 1, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

Coach, 1st and 3rd with a pitcher up, vs. letting a good hitter (and again, a guy who does a great job with RISP) try to drive him in? Hindsight is 20/20, but I just don’t see it as a major gaffe. A physical failure, yes, that nobody drove the run in, but not a strategic one. Anyway, that’s about all I have on it…

By jennifer

June 1, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

WOW, WHAT A PLAY!!!

By hk

June 1, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this

… Giles, prettiest defensive play of the year, and at a key time … Ramirez doing terrific …

By jennifer

June 1, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

THAT WAS A GREAT PLAY!!!!

By elbravo x

June 1, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

When will the grennies’ factor kick in? By this time last year, “roids were the rage, I bet kicking it up a notch with ‘phines is due to show up! There are a lot of “tired people” around the game in the six inning. Chipper seems tired and Lalazy waits for the last effort to move. Where are the wide open eyes fellows?

By Woogidy

June 1, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

After last night and tonight’s performances from McBride, his nick name should be Mc-K. Boy was he steller last 2 nights.

By tbo

June 1, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

OK now we are about to see some more bullpen stink. Remlinger. McBride and Paronto did the job, Remlinger is I fear about to show why is the the 2nd worst reliever on the team. 2nd to REEKSMA.

By JJMB

June 1, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

Yeah, there are a lot of greenies burning out there.

By tbo

June 1, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

Now. Was I just being negative, or just basing my call on past performance. Remlinger once again sux and so does our genius BC.

By Del

June 1, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this

Remlinger .. what a surprise. Retire - retire - retire - retire. Just go away.

By Woogidy

June 1, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this

Remiln-GRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

By tbo

June 1, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this

Once again BC overmanaging. He is killing our chances once again. Why didn’t you bring in Reeksma?

By JMar

June 1, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

At what point will Bobby realize that Remlinger is not a lefty specialist? I almost hope he wins the closer job just so that Bobby won’t put him into tough situations against lefties anymore…

By Woogidy

June 1, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

At some point we have to blame the players, 2 runs and it looks like its going to be a loss? The hitters are terrible tonight. Bobby’s only mistake was letting Horam go back out there.

By tbo

June 1, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

Every time I see BC in the dugout I think about all of his mismanaging the bullpen over the years and I want to throw up. OK, now the savior is in there—REEKSMA.

By ChrisinPA

June 1, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

Nathan -

I am going on the premiss that legit #1 starters are hard to come by, so it would not make sense for the Braves to trade away Hudson, unless it was for a huge package, like DOB said…I was agreeing with him. On the other hand, Crawford, while hugely talented, is somewhat expendable, or at least more than Hudson, because the D’Rays have a ton of OF prospects almost ready for the major leagues, and if I was the GM of the Rays, while not wanting to trade away Crawford would listen to offers for him before I traded away Hudson or even Scott Kazmir, from the Rays. The Rays have Elijah Dukes, Josh Hamilton and Delmon Young, along with Rocco Baldelli and Joey Gathright in their outfield future. Yes, some of them have issues, but they are legit prospects. That was my point. And to simplify it even more, top pitching is tougher to acquire and come by then hitters - plain and simple.

By elbravo x

June 1, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

A cocktail of Java could help, just springle grennies on top! This team is sucking wind in June.

By Woogidy

June 1, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

beats-ya reitsma gets an inning of work.

By Hotrod

June 1, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this

Thanks Pen.

By nathan

June 1, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

sure wish we would’ve scored a run in those innings with runners on 2nd and nobody out.

what a shame!

By nathan

June 1, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

anybody else thinks that it occasionally looks like LaRoche is swinging in Slow Motion?

By tbo

June 1, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

BC needs to retire and take Remlinger with him.

By Woogidy

June 1, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

Alright Here’s all my nick-names for the Bullpen.

Kenny “Death” Ray Mike Remlin-grrrrrrrr Oscar “Mayer” Vanerial Chris “their gonna beats-ya” Reitsma “Hanging” Chad Paronto Mc-“K” McBride “Tired” Yates, cause I’m tireed of him already! And I’ll throw one more in for fun, “I’m Chuck James Bi*ch”

By Brady

June 1, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Without Andruw Jones this s** team would be right there with the Nationals and wouldn’t have come close to the playoffs last year. Anyone else see him smiling on the bench after the game? He doesn’t want to be a part of this team, they can’t hit for s**.

By Eric C.

June 1, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

6 back on the loss side now…c’mon Braves, it’s getting to be that time of the year where things turn around…quit @#$@#@! around and let’s go!

By Sonny

June 1, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this

Every time I watch remlinger he’s blowing games…why does BC keep going to this fossil?

By journalist jimmy smith

June 1, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

governor perdue, right? welcome to the blog. your comments about remlinger are well considered. journalist jimmy smith was reminded of the cape buffalo tonight as chad paronto ran onto the field and toward the mound. one 93-mph fastball and some nasty sinkers. journalist was most distressed to see remlinger called for the next batter. the governor has remlinger covered.

By Sonny

June 1, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

…Corleone.

By Brady

June 1, 2006 11:26 PM | Link to this

Why in the hell would you leave ramirez in the game to hit with the score 0-0 when betemit is on the bench to pinch hit and the top of the lineup. ramirez barely got out of the 7th inning on a good play by giles and renteria. then he throws the ball to the front row. no way they are playoff bound and even if they are the braves cant beat a team worth a s** anyway.

By Michael

June 1, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

Is it me, or is BC making a lot of managerial errors this year? More than I’ve ever seem him make…I wonder if he’s finally loosing his touch.

By Ron Roberts

June 2, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this

No, I think Cox is calling on the arms from the ‘pen that should be doing their job, and they just aren’t!

At some point it needs to be pointed out that the primary reason we were sold on the new pitching coach was that he was a bullpen afficionado.

That’s a bust, right now, to put it mildly.

By hoho

June 2, 2006 01:13 AM | Link to this

it’s seem every year there are points in the season where i wonder if this is actually the year the braves will miss the playoffs. at some point in the last few seasons i stopped wondering that. i’ve assumed they’d get in however they had to in the end. but right now, i can’t see enough “rising above” the competition in our braves to keep me from wondering again. ouch, that hurts just thinkin’ about it.

the thing is, and i know it’s cheesy but, “it’s still a long season folks”. i really think that’s still true at this point. there’s much time for the team to get cookin’, with hope fully a few moves if they can be made AND some players stepping up more and playing smart.

GET-UP-PA!!!

By Sonny

June 2, 2006 01:29 AM | Link to this

You guys check out this article on the most underpaid and overpaid players in baseball. Giles and Furcal are both on there as OVERPAID! Actually…so is Farnsworth.

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news;ylt=Agtl0.kjkN6.c.DVklIPaIRvLYF?slug=jp-overunder060106&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

By geechee

June 2, 2006 01:31 AM | Link to this

Ron, I’m not backing up McDowell at this point but, at the same time we just don’t have the talent/experience mix we need in the pen because we don’t have the money. I still think this whole pitching coach argument is overblown. I don’t think this pen plays any better under Leo this year. A couple of those guys out there have got to begin to step up now that June is here. I mean we had like 8 HR in that game a few days ago and came very close to blowing it and just look at all the one run games we have lost. We have been in enough games to have the best record in the majors but this losing by 1 on regular basis has got to slow down now.

By Bob, journalist

June 2, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

I didn’t see the game … but it sounds like we should have won.

Sounds like Edgar made a baserunning mistake that probably cost us a run in the 4th.

If Ramirez had trouble had trouble in the 7th, why was he pitching in the 8th? That seems to be what actually cost us the game.

Given the 8th inning delimma … it’s easy to fault Remlinger … but in a 0-0 game, why were three relievers being used up in one inning when both Paronto and McBride were evidently pitching well?

If “percentages” is the answer, it’s hard to understand why Diaz (.356) remained on the bench … he’s only hitting .303 against lefties … but then, Cruz is a righty and he’s hitting .400 against those. In May, Matt hit .467 with runners in scoring position.

By Marc

June 2, 2006 01:49 AM | Link to this

For the last, at least few seasons,(save when Smoltz was the closer), the Braves have had two glaring weaknesses. The bullpen, and th eoffense. Nothing has been done about this. If it isn’t the bullpen blowing it, it is the offense. The Braves have made Juan Cruz into Johan Santana, give me a break. Why can’t this team put it together, score some runs and have the bullpen be effective. Guys have got to step up and get some clutch hits, homeruns are not going to do it. The Braves have got to play small ball. This game can’t be blamed on an error by the guy pitching his heart out, how about coming up with some hits against a mediocre pitcher. I want to know, besides the streak, why anyone thinks this team will beat out the Mets. I see a Braves team that looks confused, and full of excuses. It’s time for the excuses to end, moves to be made, and guys need to step up, and win these games. I also want to know why TP never takes any blame for the long slumps, and undisiplined hitting. If you can’t put any blame on the coach, why have him.

Go Braves!!!!!!!!!!!

By Head Coach

June 2, 2006 02:09 AM | Link to this

I watched the game Bob , They stunk except for Ramirez. Both in the fourth and fifth inning we had a runner on second with nobody out and failed to execute. If they had executed the score would have been 2-0 Atlanta in the eighth and Ramirez probably makes the throw to first and we win. but , as usual Cox doesnt hit and run , bunt the runner over or God forbid try and manufacture a run. I said it in the previous blog and I’ll say it again. This team isnt going to the playoffs nor will it win this division with the current 25 man roster. 10 and 14 in one run games , 13-3 against teams with a losing record and 15 - 23 against teams with a winning record. John Schuerholtz needs to add some speed and pitching to this team. Trade Reitsma for a bucket of balls and give Ray the closer job. All this team needs is a leadoff hitter with speed and a closer , thats it. Thats the solution.

By berigan

June 2, 2006 03:29 AM | Link to this

I know it would be hard to get a really good closer at this point of the season, but the Braves seem to think that having a dozen saves blown is no big deal, there is no rush, or a need to try anyone but Reitsma in the position. But this really isn’t like years past, there are 11 teams above .500 right now, so if we don’t win the east, it is far from a shoo-in getting the wildcard. With the Rocket re-signing with the Astros, look for them to make their typical mid/late season surge just when you thought there was no way they would get into the playoffs. Imagine how bitter folks would be if we lose out to the mets, or in the wildcard race by 2-3 games! But, thinking of all the money TimeWarner has saved itself, will be a great comfort throughout the long winter……

By Chop Chop

June 2, 2006 03:29 AM | Link to this

At one point earlier this season, the Braves were either 5-11 or 5-12 in one-run games. They’re 10-14 in one-run games now, which means something, but I’m not quite sure what. I’ve never read it, but I remember Pete Van Wieren referencing a Bill James study on a Braves telecast last year which concluded that a team’s effectiveness in one-run games is almost impossible to predict. It’s almost sheer luck, it seems. If you will remember, the Nationals were amazing in one-run games at one point (23-7 on July 7th) last year. By August 10th (a mere month later), the Nats were 25-21 in them, and it’s not as if Chad Cordero (or the rest of that very strong bullpen) was pitching poorly. Interestingly enough, the Mets are 16-6 so far this year in one-run games, which is four more wins than the next closest team (the Reds at 12-5). Even crazier, the Mets are 14-2 at home in games decided by a run.

Basically, as far as the Braves are concerned, the one-run game record isn’t a major problem. Tonight’s game was a one-run game because the Braves hit a homer in the ninth. Otherwise, it’s just the kind of typical, mystifying and perplexing loss we’ve seen several times this year.

By teoa

June 2, 2006 03:43 AM | Link to this

A lot of people are legitimately criticizing Cox’s horrible mismanagement of the bullpen, but I think it’s time a little blame is directed at Scheurholtz too. After all, if you are the Braves GM, a big part of your job is protecting Bobby from himself. And I would say that he has failed there, perhaps more so this year than any other time during the run.

First of all, as everyone now agrees, you can’t let Bobby go into the season with Reitsma as the closer. Reitsma has never shown any sort of closer ability, and you have to know Bobby is going to keep trotting him out there until he blows at least 10 wins, which this team cannot afford. That’s just what Bobby does. It’s a given that he’s not going to make an adjustment until it’s too late — even when the solution to the problem has effectively beat him over the head in the form of Ken Ray. Mr. Scheurholtz should realize by now, Bobby is a little slow when it comes to pitching strategy…he’s not going to get it.

Number two, signing Remlinger was a horrible move. And I happen to think Remlinger is still a decent pitcher and has had a very solid career…but if your manager is Bobby Cox, you have to know that he will not figure out how to use him properly. At this point in his career, Remlinger could still be effective if he was treated as a situational right-handed pitcher. There are years of evidence (many of which witnessed by Bobby) that indicate he has never been any good against lefties. Why is it that bloggers on the Braves message board know exactly what is going to happen when you bring in Remlinger to face a lefty with the bases loaded, yet Bobby seemingly has no clue? Sadly, all Bobby knows is left-right matchups — he simply does not have the ability to adjust his strategy to take into account the specific skills of his players.

And that is why assembling a bullpen in Spring Training with Reitsma slated in the closer role and Remlinger as a lefty specialist invites numerous disastrous decisions by Bobby Cox. Cox is good at many things including player development, motivating the team, and building good team chemistry, but baseball game strategy is clearly not one of his strengths in my opinion. If a GM can protect Cox from his own ignorance, then he is the best in the business, and Scheurholtz has done a pretty good job of that over the years. Unfortunately, he was not able to do that this year, and a lot of winnable games have already been thrown away as a result.

By ncscoots

June 2, 2006 06:44 AM | Link to this

lots of teeth-gnashing on the blog about the lack of “small ball” in the game…(1) Chipper doesn’t get Renteria to third: 3-4-5 hitters aren’t paid to get ‘em over, they’re paid to get ‘em in. Chipper rightly never thought about giving himself up in that situation. (2) Langerhans doesn’t bunt: if he does, Pena is walked, and Ramirez is lifted. I think it speaks volumes for Bobby’s confidence in the bullpen that he thought it was more important to leave HoRam in than try to scorea single run.

On another note, the guys were really picking it on defense, and HoRam’s error was caused by aggressiveness (I’m sure he tried to barehand in order to start a double play), and I can live with that. McBride appears to be regaining his arm strength, so maybe he’ll start getting some innings, though Bobby seems reluctant to use him aginst righties. Paronto (the old cape buffalo himself!) surprised me with his velocity, earlier in the season he wasn’t touching 90. Give Bobby one more good option in the bullpen after Ray-McBride-Paronto, and the team will be solid.

By Todd

June 2, 2006 07:13 AM | Link to this

ChrisinPA, you took the words out of my mouth on Hudson. The ESPN Rumor Mill mostly just reports what the papers are saying, and the Post is being absolutely ridiculous. First off, it would be asinine to trade Hudson away. He is an excellent pitcher, one every team in the league would love to have (though some “experts” on this blog might disagree). Plus, the Yankees have absolutely nothing to give in return other than overpaid middle-aged players on the tail end of their careers. Their farm system is empty. The Yankees fans and the NY papers just assume everyone is available for the right price, and everyone would gladly leave their own team to play in pinstripes. If players don’t drop everything to join the Yanks, then their fans say that the players “aren’t interested in winning” (see Roger Clemens).

This isn’t a team in need of rebuilding, it’s a team in need of a some tweaking in the ‘pen and perhaps another big bat. I still have faith we’ll do well and make good decisions around the trade deadline.

By Dewan

June 2, 2006 07:34 AM | Link to this

Okay gang while we dogg Reitsma all the time and deservedly so. One person we need to also give up on and during Spring training it was as obvious is Mike Remlinger. He may be a veteran but if he is brought in to get lefties out then why do I always see them jogging to a base after he pitches. That guy is horrible and just washed up. I really liked him during his 1st stint with Atlanta but now Bobby must admit the obvious and that is that he sucks jsut as much as Reitsma. I am thinking that either Mike or Chris is dating Bobby’s daughter cause there is no way they should be in a Major League Uniform pitching.

By Rick Camp

June 2, 2006 08:47 AM | Link to this

After the dust settled, do you realize John Schuerholz traded away both Kevin Millwood and Johnny Estrada for washed up relivers Oscar Villareal and Lance Cormier, one of whom is now back in the minors.

And John Schuerholz is a genius?

You are all awaiting some big trade that will land the Braves’ a stud reliever? Who do we get and what do we give up? What ewal value would a LaRoche or Langerhans bring?

By bravesfansince66

June 2, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

NCscoots, I disagree about Chipper and the 4-5’s not being paid to move runners over, just drive ‘em in. They’re being paid to do things that help the team win games. Double-dumb in the 4th, Chipper not hitting to the right side and Edgar taking off with the play in front of him. All in all, this team is just not good enough right now to win most of the close ones. As I said yesterday, the last few years of “getting by” and still winning are catching up.

By dylan

June 2, 2006 09:38 AM | Link to this

I think you guys are looking at the millwood and estrada trade the theory that we traded millwood and estrada for cormier and villareal is silly we traded millwood for estrada who then turned in 2 good years behind the plate for the braves especially in his first season for the braves his production was irreplaceable then we traded estrada for cormier and villareal 2 pitchers that may not be doing well this season but both have options left on their contract meaning they are young and probably will take some time to develop though they may not be the saviors of our bullpen this year who can say with any certainty they wont be later on. BTW considering Schuerholz was in a must trade situation and that the next 2 seasons for Philadelphia Millwood was mediocre at best I think we got the better end of that deal.

By Ron Roberts

June 2, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

While it’d be nice to have the perfect ball club (which nobody has, this season), it’d be nice if this frugal franchise could just fix the bullpen.

Yeah, I know, the utter lack of station-to-station offensive know-how this team displays is flat-out INFURIATING in games like these, true… but let’s just imagine what this team’s record would be if we…

1. Held leads beyond the 6th inning….

2. Kept opposition from adding to their lead beyond the 6th inning…

3. Actually converted, oh, say, 75% of their save opportunities this season.

Somebody to the numbers-crunching and tell us what this team’s record would be. I’m sure it’d be eye-opening.

What’s really a p** is that this team has to stretch its dollar to fill out a roster, and yet good bullpen help ISN’T costly. I truly believe they thought hiring McDowell would be enough. I really do.

And in time, maybe he will be effective on the young arms coming up through the system, but he’s not MacGyver with a roll of duct tape, a match and a wad of gum. And duct tape and chewed gum just about aptly describe our bullpen tools, right now.

By liz

June 2, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

I don’t understand why more people aren’t talking about how bad Remlinger is pitching lately. I seriously cannot remember his last 1-2-3 inning (he probably can’t either—if he’s ever had one) I would much rather see Reitsma pitch all day than see Remlinger throw one more pitch over Pratt’s or McCann’s head.

By Gary

June 2, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Reitsma might as well ask the batters where they want the pitch. Who knows, maybe the shock of getting a choice will shock them into making an out. While Kenny Ray may be the future closer for the Braves, I think Remlinger should be the ninth inning guy instead of Reitsma. Remlinger may be old, but at least he throws strikes.

By nathan

June 2, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this

So much for the old “we’re just losing because Bud Selig gave us too many road games early in the year” routine.

1 - 3 start to a nice stretch of home heavy schedule.

face i this is a mediocre team that will probably tease us by staying “in” the race all year long. Only to win between 80 - 85 games.

I think they have the talent to win more. But, right now they aren’t showing me any signs of a team that can run of one of those 35 wins over a 45 or 50 game period.

Waaaaaayyy to inconsistant. Who knows, maybe McCann returning will change that.

By braves fan

June 2, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

I realize no one is talking about this right now, but can I interject on the Hudson rumor on ESPN.com? I want to see an official source on this rumor. I guarantee it didn’t come from any Braves officials because John S. has a tight lip policy. And since they’d be the one’s who would have to trade him, I feel safe in saying this is a made up rumor. Must’ve been a slow news day at ESPN.com when they made that one up. And I want to scold DOB for even suggesting a scenario in which this rumor might come true. In the 15 years of John Scheurholtz’s tenure, how many players who are performing well have been traded away to free up salary at the deadline (or any other time for that matter)? None. Some might point to the Justice/Grissom for Lofton trade, but all of the players in that deal were impending free agents come the fall, and the Braves had Andruw Jones and Jermaine Dye to make room for (Dye was subsequently spun off for Tucker/Lockhart to add lefthanded bats). The Braves, unlike most teams, honor the contracts that they enter into, as long as they deliver a decent level of performance. Tim Hudson wants to be here and the Braves want him to be here. They need a top of the rotation pitcher to keep the rotation stablized as Smoltz moves closer to retirement and the younger arms develop. Anyone who thinks the Braves would dump Hudson, even in the unlikely event that they aren’t in the race at the end of July, obviously doesn’t understand the way the Braves operate. Optimism is the mantra. They’ve come back from a 10 game deficit after the all-star break before under Cox, so what would constitute being out of the race anyways? Absolutely ludicrous rumor.

By btoy

June 2, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

I can think of another non-pitcher to have tommy john, Rosco Crosby, he was an out fielder with the KC Farm System and a Receiver for the Clemson Football Team.

BTW, anybody know what happened to that guy? He was touted to be a big football and baseball star and nothing seemed to happen to him after his TJ surgery.

By Ron Roberts

June 2, 2006 10:47 AM | Link to this

Nathan, I have to disagree….

…the way Smoltz, Horacio, Sosa and Hudson are pitching right now, I think they can go on a tear like that - IF the bullpen can actually be effective when we don’t wanna throw our starters out there more than 7 or 8 innings a game in such a stretch.

The offense is “just enough,” really, last night notwithstanding.

By ssiscribe

June 2, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

Tough, tough loss last night. Totally wasted an outstanding performance by Ramirez, who is partially to blame for that poor underhanded toss to first base in the eight. Remlinger also gets the blame for getting that pitch up to Green. Renteria, for all his early-season brilliance, made one really bad decision on that ball to short in the fourth.

But, for my money, I’d much rather watch a 2-1 game than a 13-12 game. Last night was like a playoff game in the respect that every pitch of every at-bat had some tension and pressure to it. Fun game to watch, even though it was tough to lose. At least it’s not October and the Braves aren’t down 1-0 in a series.

Time for some analysis at the 1/3 mark of the season. The Braves (28-26) are on pace, based on their first 54 games, to win 84 games. Personally, I think they’ll win 95-98 and win the division, based on my belief that they will play better over the next four months than they did the first two. Why do I believe that, you may ask? Even if you didn’t, I’ll give you three reasons why:

First, the Braves will fix the bullpen, and no, promoting Will Startup (who I saw pitch in spring training and think has a bright future, just not this season at the major-league level) won’t fix things. One more arm is needed down there to go with Ray, Remlinger, McBride and, yes, Reitsma in a set-up role. Remlinger has struggled his past two outings, but overall, in his last 12 appearances covering 7 2/3 innings, Rem’s allowed six hits (three in his last two outings) and two runs of his own (both against the Dodgers the other night), as well as the hit that scored the game-winner last night. Whether he can sustain through an entire season remains to be seen about him and, for that matter, Sting Ray. But, they both throw strikes. The wild card in all of this: John Foster, who would give the Braves a third lefty and could allow McBride, who I think has closer’s stuff, to pitch the ninth, leaving Foster and Remlinger to do the matchup thing in the seventh and eighth. Paronto’s going to factor into this, too, provided he can keep throwing strikes.

Two, the Braves will hit better over the next four months than they did the first two. They endured horrible starts from several players, most notably Francoeur and Giles. Both are streaky by nature and will have their share of dips, but I think you’ll see more offensive production out of them (Frenchy impressed me with the way he worked the count in his favor in his last two AB’s last night; just missed on the ball in the sixth; hit a frozen rope right to somebody in the ninth. It happens). LaRoche, for all the beating he takes on here, is on pace to drive in 90 runs and hit 27 home runs. Andruw went through a 71 at-bat homer drought; don’t think that will happen again. And, there are signs of life in the bat of Chipper Jones. Get Brian McCann, the NL’s leading hitter when he was hurt, healthy and back in the lineup, and you’ve got a team that’ll be at or near the top in runs scored (and, alas, in strikeouts, too, but maybe that will change, too).

Third, the Braves’ starting rotation, long the benchmark of this rock-solid franchise, has stabilized. Davies may not be back until August, but Sosa’s pitching well (finally), HoRam’s been super his first two starts off the DL, and Hudson and Smoltz both were excellent in May. Right now, John Thomson, the only starter to pitch well consistently in April, is the weakest link.

I didn’t mention the schedule, but probably should. I know the Braves are 1-3 on the current homestand, but overall, this team is better at home than on the road and, with so many games left at 755 Hank Aaron Blvd. (59 of the final 108), I think that will help the Braves fare much better than 28-26 in parts two and three of the season.

Later on.

By Voice of Reason

June 2, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this

For those of you who are overly concerned with the Braves offense, or perceived lack thereof, check out this factoid provided by DOB this morning:

“The Braves and Dodgers led the NL with 169 runs each scored in May. The Braves’ .284 average in May trailed only the Dodgers (.298), and Atlanta’s 36 home runs ranked fourth.”

Don’t pin the Braves’ futility on LaRoche or Langerhans or anybody else with a bat… That label fits squarely on the bullpen. I’m getting to the point where I cringe more with Remlinger than with Reitsma. At least you know Reitsma has decent stuff; Remlinger has nothing left, nothing. To quote a fellow blogger - he’s dead to me, dead I say!

By bravesfansince66

June 2, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Seems like it’s a matter of what comes first, the chicken or the egg… does having the ability to push across a few more runs in a close game reduce the now-urgent need for a shut-down bullpen, or would a shut-down bullpen reduce the need to push across a few more runs. Either way, I just don’t see it with this team. BC is too dependent on the HR ball, fine if Andrew goes 40+ and 130+ and Chipper getting 30+ and 120+ and a 1B tandem getting 25+ and 100+. But getting those stars aligned the right way isn’t happening. Thus, the need for small ball. As has been said many, many times.. get ‘em on, get ‘em over, get ‘em in. This team needs create chances on offense, put pressure on the other team instead of pressure on the ‘pen.

By Hal

June 2, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

Reading this Blogs almost as humorous as Dilbert lol first of all JS traded Millwood for Estrada in a salary dump plus we needed a catcher and he was a serviceable option for a year and a half(i cant count the number of these same people b*** about him last half of last year) what we got for him was irrelevant ….another salary dump the pitchers we got for him were irrelevant .As for all the Cox bashers post your moves before the play occurs and we will see how “obvious” this managing thing is …now im totally convinsed that all these astute blogers know more then Cox or Js so much so in fact im surprised Time Warner hasnt hired a few of the better ones to run the franchise Nathan could be our PR guy lol

By Voice of Reason

June 2, 2006 11:54 AM | Link to this

Amen, Hal, Amen!

By Joe Roman

June 2, 2006 12:14 PM | Link to this

I’m wholeheartedly joining the optimistic chorus of believers. I believe Ken Ray is for real. I even like his nickname. Every time he takes the mound, he seems to have more confidence. Better yet, he continues the Braves’ unbelievable ability to bring to prominence relief pitchers from out of nowhere. Conversely, every time they’ve signed some “proven” guy, he hasn’t lived up to expectations. Remember Sutter and the Mad Hungarian? I suggest all of us bloggers keep “throwing on the side”. Come next spring, it could be one of us the teams turns to.

By nathan

June 2, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

Head Coach…….you and me are gonna get along just fine!

By ABC

June 2, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

Rick Camp, you embarassed yourself when you went to jail, so just shut up.

By nathan

June 2, 2006 12:26 PM | Link to this

Hal….. I would love to be the PR guy!

I can hear the commercials now, they might go a little somthing like this…..

“Hey Everybody! Do you like poorly played baseball? Well if you do, and judging by how many of you settle for post season failure year, after year, come on out to the TED, where sloppy play is the norm. We can’t bunt, run, or field. But we can sure Mash with the best of em’. Chicks dig the Longball…….

I could go on but you get the point.

I’ll get my resume started. Hal can I use you for a reference? LOL

I headin out of town for the weekend. Not sure if I’ll have internet connection. So have a good weekend everybody. Enjoy the “silence” while I’m away!

Go Braves!

By JD

June 2, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

I’m a displaced Braves fan living outside DC now, and as a strange (and as-yet-unexplained) result of a local thunderstorm, I had to watch last nights game over an Arizona broadcast. I got an ironic chuckle when the Arizona broadcasters were talking about Stone Mountain (Politely), but turned around and suggested that they think General Sherman’s face is carved on the side of the rock. Shame, shame.

By David O'Brien

June 2, 2006 01:57 PM | Link to this

Braves fan, you’re the one to be scolded for taking ME to task on stoking the freakin’ Hudson rumor. I’m the one that has had to, on a daily basis, discount it as senseless speculation. Time and time again, I’ve said it’s not going to happen because the Braves aren’t going to fall out of contention, at least not that far out of contention, before July 31. So just stop with trying to criticize me for laying out a scenario in which it might come true.

Stop bringing up the d%&* rumor, period. It’s nothing but idle speculation from one guy out there who had one scout tell him, hey, if Braves fall out of it, Hudson could be available. Nothing more. And that’s the last time I’m going to address it. That’s it. Over. Talk about it all you want, but it’s a stupid rumor and only obsessive folks with nothing more to think about would keep bringing it up. IT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN unless the braves completely fall apart between now and July 31 or unless new ownership suddenly takes over and says start getting rid of guys, and I don’t have any reason to believe that’s going to happen.

OK, that’s it. I’m done with that rumor. It can rot on that Rumor Mill site, but unless and until it’s updated with something of substance, I’m not addressing it again.

As for REMlinger (I write it that way instinctively sometimes, from my early-80s college days of being in total awe of the band), the idea of using him against lefties is new this year, as Bobby Cox has said, because the breaking ball he developed in spring made him effective against lefties, unlike previous years. But it’s not working now, obviously, and Bobby needs to stop using him against lefties, clearly.

Oh, and HoHo, I love the James Brown inference. (I’m assuming GET-UP-PA, was J.B. reference, right? If not, it was cool anyway because that’s how I took it.)

Oh, and I’m listening to an old Drive-By Truckers CD, Gangstabilly, while writing this, wondering has there ever been, on a good CD, a more ridiculous _ but cool _ array of song titles on one CD than this one, which includes “Wife Beater,” “Demonic Possession,”, “The Living Bubba,”, “Late for Church,”, “Why Henry Drinks,” “Steve McQueen,” “Buttholeville” (can I say that here?) and “Sandwiches for the Road.”

OK, time to crunch numbers, get ready for tonight’s game.

Oh, and the only way that killyer CD by “Editors,” who sound like Joy Division and Interpol, could have been any cooler is if the band’s name was “Sports Writers.” ba-da-bum. OK, I’m a geek.

By Rob S.

June 2, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

DOB - The Cormier being DFA’ed rumor was started by that idiot Jeff Torborg. That’s the move he stated was made for Yates to be called up.

By JasonInMaine

June 2, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this

From the ESPN rumor mill:

Trade winds Jun 1 - According to published reports, the Dodgers are one of several teams interested in Carl Crawford, but unless the Devil Rays receive an overwhelming offer for the speedy outfielder, they probably won’t move him before the July 31 deadline.

Now, I know the rumor mill isn’t the law and it mentions that Hudson may be on the block, but man; I wish the Braves could get Crawford. I blogged in the pre-season that the Braves should go after him. Nothing against Langy, but Crawford would be awful sweet leading off for the Bravos and playing in LF.

What do others thing? DOB, think there is any chance or will the Braves most likely concentrate on the pen? I know you can’t give us hard facts, but speculating in a blog is ok!

Regards, Jason

By Chris

June 2, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

I was at the game last night, and when I saw Ramirez in the on-deck circle in the bottom of the 7th (in a 0-0 game, mind you), I started to cringe. When he actually walked to the plate, I almost started to cry.

It was his second game since being out 7 weeks, he had already thrown nearly 100 pitches, and we needed runs. I’m sorry, but is this not why Pete Orr is on the team (I like Betemit’s bat better, but Pete has the speed in that situation)?

Couple bonehead moves by Cox. I usually don’t question the man, but Ramirez should not have been pitching the 8th, let alone hitting in the 7th. And in the 8th, Cox should’ve left McBride in. You don’t need to go through 3 relievers in the 8th inning of a 0-0 game, which could very well go into extra innings. I like Paronto, but I would much rather have seen McBride pitch to all 3 batters than for Remlinger to come in. When they called him in, I leaned oevr the railing and yelled to the bullpen, “You guys better start warming up. Somebody else is coming in soon.”

And I was right.

Wow, Reitsma can get outs when we’re already losing by 2. It’d be nice if he could get some when we’re up by 2.

Any reliever in the Braves pen whose last name starts with “RE” should be canned. Period.

By JasonInMaine

June 2, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

Chris,

I have to admit…I was thinking the exact same thing. It is hard to question Bobby and I am one who thinks he is perhaps the best manager ever, but I didn’t understand the HoRam batting and going back out for the 8th either. Can you say…lack of faith in the pen?!?!

Regards, Jason

By journalist jimmy smith

June 2, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this

cheese sandwiches for the road, dob?

By Bob, journalist

June 2, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

JD, that’s not at all surprising … according to a 2002 Roper Survey of 18-24 year old Americans … 11% couldn’t find the USA on a map … 29% couldn’t locate the Pacific Ocean and approximately 70% couldn’t locate the United Kingdom … rumor has it that 17% thought Kampala was a summer camp for girls, located just south of Cordele.

By hk

June 2, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

journalist bob,

… on your Braves modelling question,

(here)

developed that approach in the early 1960’s when I was with Exxon, have used it ever since in my work

(1) … basically, every decision you make, or any organization you analyze, has criteria for evaluation … if you assign a number value to each criteria, and keep adjusting the total so it equals 100, it forces you to make decisions about what is more important than what else …

(2) … then, it’s a matter of assigning a 0 to 100 number to each of the above as to how closely we think actual performance will come up to potential …

(3) … then multiply (1) times (2) for any number of alternative scenarios, add them up, divide by 100, gives a weighted average for each ..

(4) … turns out this is real easy to do, doesn’t take any time at all (5-10 minutes) … have done it in groups many times with blackboard and a piece of chalk, get people on the same page, home in on major areas of disagreement (that might take an hour) …

(5) … with the Braves, it’s a matter of assigning a relative importance number for each player’s contribution, offence and defense, based on his talent potential and his probable availabilty (injuries, etc) …

(6).. then assign 0 to 100 values to each player’s performance for now, later, hi, low, most likely etc …

(6) … multiply (5)times (6), divide by 100, use a constant to make it come out number of wins for the season, play around with it until it all looks about right …

(7) … you can then alter any number you want reflecting a player’s performance, see how many wins it costs you, stuff like that …

… aren’t you glad you asked ???

By KneeJerk

June 2, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

If there was a runner on, Horacio wouldn’t have batted (he isn’t totally inept at the playe, anyway). Horacio walked the lead-off guy. Is that why you’re so upset? Would you be shocked if whomever came out of the pen did that? The error had nothing to do with his pitching.

By KneeJerk

June 2, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

plate, not playe

By stynes

June 2, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

I love BC but he’s not perfect. I think he’d be the first to tell you that in hindsight he makes some pretty poor decisions on occassion. Leaving Ramirez in last night just wasn’t one of them.

When Ramirez came to bat in the 7th there were 2 out and nobody on. He’d thrown roughly 90 pitches through 7 great innings allowing 3 hits and 3 walks while striking out one. The team doesn’t get another day off for another 10 days or so for relievers to recover if you end up burning through them. Ramirez walked the leadoff man in the 8th. That’s never good but he had already pitched around 3 other walks in the game. The downfall was the throwing error. Ramirez looked like he was going to 2nd initially and would have had an out if he had fielded the ball cleanly. When he didn’t he had to turn around to pick it up, rushed, and made a bad throw to first. That was the inning. No one, you, me, or BC, can predict that Ramirez doesn’t make that play. If he does make the play then it’s runner on first, one out and Ramirez probably finishes the inning without giving up a run. Maybe he goes on to throw a CG shutout walking 4 giving up only 3 hits. No one would be complaining then. Not letting McBride finish the 8th may have been a questionable decision by BC but letting Ramirez bat in the 7th and start the 8th wasn’t.

By Chris

June 2, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

KneeJerk,

I’m sure he wouldn’t have gone to the plate with a runner on, but in that situation, we needed runs badly.

Yes, he did walk the leadoff hitter. He had shown signs of wear in the 7th, when we were lucky to get that DP by Giles and Renteria. I just thought he had hit his wall, especially after being on the DL for 7 weeks. I thought that in the 8th, we needed to get a fresh arm in there. Hopefully, a pitcher who had just finished warming up and wasn’t tired would not have walked the leadoff hitter. Then the error never would’ve come into play. Even if a fresh pitcher had walked the leadoff hitter, they get the bunt down and they have a runner on 2nd with 1 out. Then we may have walked to set up the DP, but we wouldn’t have had bases juiced with no outs. With runners on 1st and 2nd and 1 out, rather than 2nd and 3rd with no outs, perhaps we get out of the inning and Andruw’s shot sends us home in the 9th.

All speculation, of course, but I saw everything unfolding as it happened. I still say bad move to let him pitch the 8th and worse move to not try to get a run in the 7th.

By Chop Chop

June 2, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

Chris, I also think it was a bad move to let Horacio hit in the seventh. Maybe you put Betemit in there and he hits a homer? Maybe he hits a single and you have the doubles-hitting Giles up next? Ultimately, I think the pen was going to blow that game, but I prefer to see the Braves not let up late in the game. Letting Horacio hit was letting up on the D-Backs, especially after the miraculous double play he got in the seventh when he was obviously running out of gas. It gave the D-Backs an obvious easy out (Horacio’s not hitting .750 anymore, is he?) late in a tied game. To me, that’s just stupid.

By Rob S.

June 2, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Everytime we talk about the leadoff situation, I wish we hadn’t traded Charles Thomas. He struggled during his stint with the A’s last year, but he’s tearing up in AAA again this year. It’d sure be nice to put him at the top of the order right now.

By Bob, journalist

June 2, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

Hk, Thanks! I can follow the normalization of the numbers and see how such a tool could be effective in measuring the relative performance impact of various decision scenarios.

The main thing that doesn’t seem to be addressed is how the performance of the competition is being considered in your projection of the number of wins for the Braves. On the surface, it would seem that such consideration would be necessary to move from the relative to the absolute.

I know that the assumptions are subjective but it would be nice to have a brief description of the basic approach used to arrive at those; together with the definitions of “potential” and “performance”.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 2, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this

LeTwan and Mama were watching the game and Mama made a noise when Bobby let Ramirez bat. Seems like we really needed a run, and Bobby ball hadn’t produced one earlier in the game even with a runner on second and no one out. So, Mama thought Betemit should have batted for Ramirez - and she said she thought Ramirez had had enough for the night since he’d been off for weeks with an injury. Mama was right! The next inning he loaded the bases. McCabe is going to be good, isn’t he? Paronto, has a great sinker. Mama made another noise when Bobby pulled Paronto out of the game for Remlinger. Mama thinks there isn’t much to that argument that he now has an out pitch for left-handers. Where was that out pitch last night? Was that it that scored the runs? Oh, well, Mama could be manager but she is so busy in the kitchen with pies that it probably won’t work. Speaking of pies, there is one in the oven now. Sometime before the game, LeTwan will pour a cold glass of milk and take care of that pie! LeTwan must remark on the comment made earlier by a blogger that Chipper and Andruw aren’t supposed to move runners, they’re supposed to bring in runs. That seems ill-informed to LeTwan. Early in the count, if either gets a pitch he can drive, then LeTwan is all for it. When down in the count and the runner needs to be advanced, any player on the team can and should try to put the ball in play instead of swinging from the heels and almost falling down in the box like we are seeing. The Braves don’t have a game to get that one run they need. Of course, with the pen we’ve had one run isn’t enough - but LeTwan likes our chances better when runners are advanced and runs scored during the game. Not being able to get the one run has hurt this team every year in the playoffs.

By hk

June 2, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

journalist bob,

… new blog just appeared, will answer over there …

By blog police

June 2, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Why is it that LeTwan posted under the name journalist jimmy smith?

Hmmm…suspicions confirmed?

Very interesting.

Try to keep your characters straight…it gets confusing for us “real” people.

By Paul Herrmann

June 2, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

I agree with you about Ray. I have thought for about 2 -3 weeks Ray should be the closer. What I want to know is, don’t you think Marcus Giles is more comfortable as a 2 hitter? So why not put Renteria as Lead off hitter? Link:{http://livinginthepast.us}

By Kirk

June 6, 2006 07:17 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is not coming back as a CLOSER! His golf game is more important than the Braves season. That’s right! Smoltz does not want to close because he would not be able to play golf since he would not have any “OFF” days. And you thought these guys played the game because they wanted to WIN!