Braves

By Rutuger

June 16, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

Sorry, but there ain’t no way in HELL I’m drinking the “Braves can still make the playoffs” Kool Aid. I love this team and always will, through thick and thin, but let’s be realistic here, folks. This is a horrendous ball club with no bright spots, and this isn’t just some slump. 3-14 over the past 17, without a single viable option in the bullpen and no leadoff hitter? It’s been an incrediblke run, but this one is just over. We’ll be back next year.

The good news is that the scenery at Turner Field will always be the best of any stadium in America.

By Rutuger

June 16, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this

And the enormous Red Sox bandwagon (which has ballooned exponentially since 2004) will be unloading on Hank Aaron drive all weekend long, so Fenway South will be a nice place for Boston to get back to their winning ways.

Who’s going to beat them? Certainly not the jokers we have bumbling around out there. Sorry for the realis—I mean, pessimism here, but I never thought it would be this humiliating to be a Braves fan again.

By SR

June 16, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

I’m with you Rutuger, horrible team from top to bottom. Good teams find a way to win, bad teams find a way to lose. This team is so bad it finds a different way to lose every night, though most nights the “someone else’s retreads” bullpen is to blame. So sad to see that JS could not see this coming but he bears the lionshare of the blame for sitting on his can in the offseason.

By Vulcan Vic

June 16, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Are you the same DOB that picked the Braves to win the N.L. East?

How does it feel to be so WRONG?

I knew it was just a matter of time before you gave us the old “better to win the wild card, anyway” spin.

By Miguel Manuel

June 16, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

Your impact-player wishlist is nice, DOB, but too much like what typically gets written by the more promiscuous bloggers on this site. What would make any of those teams (especially the Cards with Wainwright) want to give us anything without egregiously overspending? The current Braves roster is going to have to turn this around themselves before mortgaging the farm away again makes sense. Hey, I’d be all for letting Salty, et al. go while they still have plenty of unproven upside if it helped us win, but that’s too big an “if” when we get swept by a team of prospects and scrubs who routinely draw fewer than 10,000 fans per game.

By BirdDawg

June 16, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Dave O’Brien, as long as that incompetant fool Bobby Cox keeps on running out the same old tired line-up night after night after night, nothing will ever change in Atlanta.

And now you won’t have a Division Title to “prove” Cox’s “greatness.”

Talk about the most overrated manager in the history of the game. Bobby Cox is 1a and LaRussa is 1b. The guys never get it done when their team really needs them to pull their heads out of their rear orafices and actually manage a game. Cox has been able to cruise through regular season after regular season on the strength of an awesome GM and a crappy division.

Now that the GM’s hands are tied and the division’s competant, Cox is being exposed for being the biggest fraud in the history of sports this side of Barry Bonds.

Yeah, players love him because he’ll keep on running those same unemotional has-beens out their night after night. Ozzie Guillen or Mike Scoisca, or any competant manager would have torn up the line-up card, found a place for Betemit two months ago, sat Francour when he stoppped listening to the hitting coach, shifted Chipper to first, and put Giles back to two.

But Cox isn’t competant. He’s the absolute pinacle of imcompetance. It used to be that October was his time to fall flat on his face. Now we see him for the fraud he is.

PAY NO ATTENTION TO THE MAN STANDING BEHIND THE CURTAIN… I AM THE GREAT AND ALL POWERFULL WIZARD OF OZ! I’M THE WIZARD!

By ernesto

June 16, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this

so no one’s going to drink my “everyone went into the tank at the same time, so they’ll all get hot at the same time” Kool Aid? It’s refreshing, and low in calories.

Still it doesn’t get rid of the funk in your mouth left by the bullpen.

go Bravos, 2006, the miracle season.

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this

You know none of you guys are TRUE Braves fans. All you guys care about is winning i mean ya i would love for us to win but still there is no reason to bag on a team that loses.All of your ideas arent going to help the team out in anyway. like some people we need to trade Chipper, Giles, and Laroche i mean are you guys crazy all three of them are awesome ball players. Last year we treaded J.D. Drew and look how he is doing….AWESOME….so there is no need to trade good players that will help us out in the long run.

By fnreitsma

June 16, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

so…umm, insider man…looks like giles is still with us. you fraud

By krath

June 16, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

I understand the purpose of the blogs are to basically throw out a topic and get the conversation rolling.

The only problem I have with the subject of this one is that JS is too conservative to make ONE MOVE much less the two or three significant ones that need to be made to even sniff at the wildcard this year.

BTW… the moves you suggested are good moves in my opinion and would carry a reasonable price tag. While JS has in the past made some good moves in the off season to help the club, he has done nothing significant during the season since the Fred Mcgriff thing. (or am I forgetting something?…could be… I’m old)

By ernesto

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

Allysa is either very young or very high, take it easy on her.

By DHD

June 16, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

We traded JD Drew? Who did we get for him?

Anyway, this is just a bump in the road. The odds are not going to allow us to win the division every year. I have a feeling that Time Warner has put a freeze on the Braves as far as trades go because of the pending sale of the team. If we can make a deal, Crawford would be great to get because of his age.

By Chop Chop

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

“Cox is being exposed for being the biggest fraud in the history of sports this side of Barry Bonds.”

BirdDawg, I don’t like Bobby Cox, but…hell, you know you’re exaggerating.

Oh, and BirdDawg? Learn how to spell.

By Josh

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

I thought J.D. Drew was a free Agent

By Bob in SF

June 16, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t see the Marlins trading a cornerstone pitcher who will be great for the next ten years, much less to someone in the division. It was one thing to ship DeLuca and Delgado with their fat contracts and both being on the other side of 30 to the Mets but not Willis to anyone in the East when there are so many buyers. Plus the Fish are under tremondous pressure from MLB to hold onto Willis as one of there few legitimate stars. And Carl Crawford? The Rays are asking for two young starters and two prospects. The Braves would have to package something like Davies and James, then Salty and Thormond on top of that just to be in the bidding for Crawford! I think you might see small deals for some relief help and maybe, maybe Giles and/or LaRoche get moved but JS will not trade the farm. I think we are all looking for a McGriff savior trade but what people seem to be forgetting was when that trade was made the Braves were one of the biggest spenders in MLB and that SD was bleeding money in their old ball park. With rev sharing and most teams in new/good stadiums you are not going to see small market teams just give people away any more unless they have just an outrageous contract. Also when the Braves got McGriff, the key to that trade was Nieves who was at one time considered a prospect on par with Chipper, Javy L, and Klesko.

By Brent

June 16, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

I have yet to understand the “ha-ha, you picked the braves to win the east!” mentality.

Would you have more respect for DOB if he continued to stand by that prediction today?

He made it. Big deal. He was very likely wrong. But now, he’s making predictions/suggestions based on where the Braves are now.

I don’t understand the point in going back to March and saying, “See!”

Who cares?

By Bob in SF

June 16, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t see the Marlins trading a cornerstone pitcher who will be great for the next ten years, much less to someone in the division. It was one thing to ship DeLuca and Delgado with their fat contracts and both being on the other side of 30 to the Mets but not Willis to anyone in the East when there are so many buyers. Plus the Fish are under tremendous pressure from MLB to hold onto Willis as one of there few legitimate stars. And Carl Crawford? The Rays are asking for two young starters and two prospects. The Braves would have to package something like Davies and James, then Salty and Thormond on top of that just to be in the bidding for Crawford! I think you might see small deals for some relief help and maybe, maybe Giles and/or LaRoche get moved but JS will not trade the farm. I think we are all looking for a McGriff savior trade but what people seem to be forgetting was when that trade was made the Braves were one of the biggest spenders in MLB and that SD was bleeding money in their old ball park. With rev sharing and most teams in new/good stadiums you are not going to see small market teams just give people away any more unless they have just an outrageous contract. Also when the Braves got McGriff, the key to that trade was Nieves who was at one time considered a prospect on par with Chipper, Javy L, and Klesko.

By Voice of Reason

June 16, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

At the risk of sounding as if I’m sucking up to you, I am in 100% agreement with you DOB. Every bit of what you said not only makes sense, but is workable if the planets align just right. You just have to get other GMs that want to play with you.

There are a couple of things that could be done right now, today, without anybody else’s help. Bring up James, shift Sosa to short relief, maybe even closer. Play Diaz every day. Bring up Thorman and play him every day. Bring back Pena as backup catcher. I’d much rather have him as second catcher than Pratt. No disrespect to Pratt; cold fact is, Pena’s the better talent. McCann doesn’t seem to require Pratt’s “tutoring.” Keep WillyB’s bat in the lineup somewhere. Even if he’s super-sub. He’s gotta play.

It ain’t rocket surgery, folks. Most all of us recognize the glaring deficiencies. And I won’t concede anything to anybody as long as they show a pulse!

By Rutuger

June 16, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

I find it very difficult to be mad at Braves management given that they have provided us with the privilege of having a winner for a whopping decade-and-a-half, but it certainly is frustrating.

If we someway, somehow (damn myself—I swore I wouldn’t give in!!!) manage to de-suckify this team and make a real run, I will be absolutely, completely, utterly dumbfounded. And ecstatic… and comfortably asleep in bed, as this will just be a glorious dream.

By clarence

June 16, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

Something has to be done & quickly, not wait until close to the usual July deadine. The biggest problem so far on trades is that every team contacted by the Braves so far (according to many other sports sites) want WB!!! They don’t want any of the other losers we’re trying to dump. Giles is not drawing much interest. RK LaRoche looks good to only the Angels who could use a lefty bat with a little pop but they won’t return anything but some low level prospect(s). That’s how bad the other teams rate what we have available. Carl Crawford would apppear to be a great addition, leadoff, speed, can play 1st or LF but we will have to way overpay for him as many teams are making offers for him. The Angels appear to have offered their young starter Ervin Santana + prospects for him. Santana appears to have a possible big future, he’s only 23 & currently 6-3 w/4.19 ERA, 13 GS, 79.2 inn. 73 hits, 19 BB, 55 SO. Appears to be ahead of and better than Davies. So, Crawford will cost alot, but somethings has to be done. We also HAVE to get some of the Richmond/Missisippi guys up. If we have to play this sad of baseball I would rather see it done with young guys fighting to prove they want to be in MLB that most of these overpaid vets who are dogging it!!!!

By johnny

June 16, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

now that i think about it theres hasnt been maybe huge blow me out of the couch sweat pool in a while. the only one i thought was a great trade was GARY SHEFF. but when it came for the playoffs we got nothing from him. we’ve had some good players come and go via trades but none of them have been all that productive during the playoffs. they might play decent during the season and then use that as a leverage to get a huge contract from a desperate team. JS has been very smart moving average players to get better ones but now cause the team is so in need for good players it will cost alot to get anyone here. and some of you are right, because JS has only given away players that have proven to be bench players the other GMs probably wont be giving in so easy anymore. i havent given up on the wildcard but i dont see it coming. GO BRIAN MCCANN!!!!

By Mets Stink

June 16, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, any updates from the inside of a trade? I’ve been waiting all day for something, even if it’s not as big as the ones you mentioned above.

By Adam

June 16, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

DOB: Agree with everything you wrote. Just don’t think they will (or can, with TW in the middle of a sale) happen. And all you who call yourself fans and trash the team for falling back down to earth should be ashamed of yourselves. Fans, like me, supported the Braves when we knew they were going to lose in the ‘80. We supported ‘em when we knew they were going to win in the ’90s. And I support ‘em now when we have no clue what they’re going to do. “Fans” aren’t just around when times are good.

By I think with a drawl

June 16, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

It’s time to dig deep into our SunTrust account and pay Alfonso Soriano every cent the he says he’s worth. Mortgage away the future? Absolutely, because the only season that matters is the current one. I would like to win, a World Series, THIS YEAR!!! Not next year, not in five years, no. 2006! Go out and get some mound help too, but one thing is apparent to me and that is we don’t have any “bop” on top. Agree or disagree, I’m merely opining on a means to an end. 15 in a row, and no choking in October.

By Gavin McBrewer

June 16, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

I can’t find a political blog to write to so why not write here? The AJC is a disgrace to ATL. Just look at how they jump to Campbell’s defense, completely one-sided. Their headline is about Campbell’s “letter” from his mother, as if to say, “SEE ATLANTA!, He IS innocent!!!” When he was sentenced, all the paper could do was give his rebuttal and use the word “abomination” when referring to the verdict. They barely quoted the federal judge’s comments at all. The AJC headline was like saying, “Ex-Mayor wrongly convicted”. And look back at Al-Zarqawi being killed. The AJC headlines with “Al-Zarqawi Murdered” and then here’s the kicker; The very next line links to “family reacts”. Then they proceed to describe Al-Zarqawi’s brother and his poor 2 kids. Nevermind the fact that he sawed people’s heads off. Let’s trash the US military for killing a sweet man and father of 2. The AJC is trash and you are a traitor for reading it.

By daniel

June 16, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

hey there if anyone go to braves game this weekend so pls support for boston red sox! braves are big big big slumping! Go RED SOX!

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

The formula for Coke … I’m sure that Matt and everyone else would like to have it … including Jeff, during his first month at the dance, and the monkey that knocked out one of the Bard’s sonnets on the typewriter … not to overlook Bob Hazle’s great 1957 performance.

While confidence has surely played a role with Diaz’s success against the Marlins, indications are that he’s a pretty fair hitter … maybe even “The Real Thing”.

By AndyW

June 16, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

The Braves you see on June 16th are going to look much like the Braves on Sept 16th, and they should. They need to be sellers at the trade deadline, not buyers. A few tweaks here & there are not going to fix this shipwreck of a season.

With the exception of McCann, 2005’s Baby Braves run the range from below average (Francouer, Langerhans) to horrific (Sosa, Davies). It is clear that depending on all the youngsters to repeat their 2005 performances was a huge mstake.

They can’t win every year (even though it has felt that way). JS should not mortgage the future to bring in a few veterans who will, at most, lead to th Braves finishing five games out of the WC instead of seven out.

Trade Chipper, Giles (if you can get anything for him) or even (GASP!!) Smoltz and retool for another run starting in 2008 or so.

By michael

June 16, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

The Braves need an owner who has there interest at heart. TWX don’t care nothing about this team. They have slashed there budget the past several years. They have been unable to keep Mazzone, Furcal, and Glavine just to mention a few. Roger McDowell must go. He was given a staff that has finish 1st or 2nd in era the past 10 or 12 years. Now they are next to last in the NL.Michael

By David

June 16, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

All of you sorry crybabies stop hasseling Bobby Cox. You probably would not even be the Braves fans that you are without his legacy. A division conquering legacy that stands above in all professional sports. His tactics may frustrate you when the braves are losing, but look to the players this time.

Bobby plays the pitchers in the bullpen (that are if I dare say pitching with the most consistency) and these guys consitently blow it. Everyone is just streaky this season. Andruw leads the team in strikeouts with RISP, that hurts. We have a few to name hitting under .240 overall. Did anyone else see the stats that the braves are hitting .130 with RISP, worst in the league this month? We don’t even need to bother speaking about the bullpen. A crew that has taken days off my life from an increase in cortisol and blood pressure.

It’s pretty easy to blame a guy that sticks to his formula of success, and yes adjustments should be experimented with (more Betemit). But seriously, don’t trash a guy that will make the hall of fame, and regard him as a fraud sitting in the same boat as Barry Bonds. He has always put confidence in players that had previously perfomed below average and turned them into stars. I just don’t think that the talent is there for him to produce a division success. We all know that the Mets are just plain out good this year, just read the roster.

Bobby, you still da man. Remlinger, I hate you.

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Ernesto…or w/e im not high…but ig uess you could say i am young b/c i am only 14…but i just dont think bashing the Braves is anyway to get through this trouble

By Scottie Jr.

June 16, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

all i have to say is 90 games doesnt make a season…get off giles and laroche and let this team turn things around….does anyone see the youth we have and the talent we have to build on?…give praise to the mets and stay competitive and go after this wild card and get in the playoffs then challenge the mets in the nlcs…im ashamed of all the haters on giles…its ridiculous that the guy has started slow…but what happens when he tears it up after the all star break?..thats right, you all jump back on his bandwagon….true fans stay behind there teams and players, through thick and thin, some of u haters are pathetic!!!…go braves, i will never give up on any of you!!!

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

Your so right David……Bobby Cox is the history of this team

By Bulldawg4life

June 16, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

Allysa,

Chipper Jones has degraded each of the last three years though when healthy, he’s at least still semi competent offensively, though he stinks defensively.

Andruw Jones’ average has once again, for the umpteenth year, climbed down to the .260 range; which is why he couldn’t win MVP last year…he fails too often in the clutch to be a reliable #4 hitter, but he’s still one of this team’s best players.

Plus, he never hustles and it’s p** me off for 10 years now.

Adam LaRoche sucks. I won’t even both explaining the various ways in which Mr. slow poke, no defense, strike our hit into a double play when it counts boy sucks. I think I just did.

And JD Drew left as a free agent. We traded him for some oxygen and used beer cans.

By Adam

June 16, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

I have to agree with AndyW. The Braves are probably in for a few down years under Liberty Media. They can sell in two years to Arthru Blank. Best bet for the Braves is probably - much as I’d hate to see ‘em go - trade Smoltz, Andruw (both likely gone after next season anyway), Giles, LaRoche, Sosa & Thompson for some solid prospects, and plan on having a solid team again by 2008 or 2009.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

My previous post should have read …

The formula for Coke … It’s elusive, that’s for sure!

I’m sure that Matt and everyone else would like to have it … including Jeff, during his first month at the dance, and the monkey that knocked out one of the Bard’s sonnets on the typewriter … not to overlook Bob Hazle’s great 1957 performance.

But, while confidence has surely played a role in Diaz’s success against the Marlins, indications are that he’s a pretty fair hitter … maybe even “The Real Thing”.

By Adam

June 16, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

I agree with the Bobby Cox supporters. Without him this streak would have ended years ago. The Braves can’t win forever, but they can make some smart trades now and be in a position to start winning again in a couple of years.

By David O'Brien

June 16, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

Vulcan Vic, solid post … solid waste.

How does it feel to be wrong? Because I picked the Braves to win the NL East? Oh, I don’t know. I haven’t really given it a moment’s thought, to tell you the truth. How does it feel … hummm … it feels, well, exactly like it would feel if I hadn’t picked them to win the NL East. No feeling whatsoever. Personally, I’ve got a lot more pertinent things to think about, to think about how I feel …

Like, for instance, how good the movie Dazed and Confused is. I just watched it on DVD again last night. Great flick.

later

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

ok….but i dont see why everyone wants to get rid of Marcus Giles…Why do you guys want to do that

By Ace

June 16, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

You’re nuts if you want to mortgage the future for half a season of Soriano. He’s a great player, sure, but there’s no way the Braves can pay him long term. Carl Crawford is a far better option. JS has dealt with the Rays before, so why not offer them a pitcher and Langerhans or a young middle infielder.

By David O'Brien

June 16, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

You’re all right, by the way. Let’s just wrap it up and shut down the blog. What’s the point, right? Team’s going nowhere.

Let’s talk basketball recruiting. Better subject….

Geez, can’t believe the anguish and sorrow some of you exude. relax, folks, take a deep breath.

By Eric

June 16, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Considering we have Renteria locked up for, what is it 3 more years? And betemit is still making the minimum, do we really need those infielders? If we keep them, we wouldnt use them for 3-4 more yrs. Thats alot of waiting if we can get either Willis or Crawford with them and a few others. I say J.S. needs to make it happen. He has said himself, not sure that it was this season or last season, how they wanted to build more of a W.C. team, combined with the 80mill payroll, etc etc.

By Eric Jones

June 16, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

There is still hope for this season…slight as it may be…but you can not mortgage the future just to try and extend the streak or win the wild-card. Salty and Elvis Andrus are the Braves top two prospects.

Salty is struggling this year, but he is going to be a stud. Andrus is only 17 and progressing nicely at Rome (you would be wise to make the short drive up I-75 and check this kid out)…he is hitting about .285 and among the team leaders in RBI hitting in the two-hole.

If the Braves are able to pick up either Willis or Crawford I could certainly see trading either Salty or Andrus…but not both…preferably Salty because he is blicked by McCann. By the time Andrus is ready it Renteria’s contract will be up and it will be time for him to move on to another organization.

Pitching is the key…if we get Willis we can move Sosa to the pen. When Davies returns we can move Thomson to the pen.

Starters would be: Smoltz, Huddy, Willis, James, and Davies (I think any manager would take his chances with those 5).

Pen would be: Thomson, Ray, Sosa, McBride, Stockman, Ho-Ram(or he could be packaged in a trade with Giles to get some additional bullpen help), Will Startup (this kid needs a chance too…he would be a great set-up man until he is ready for the closers role…he’s got a herky-jerky motion that will confuse everyone in the league the first time around).

JS…give me a call…I’m available to fill Dayton Moore’s position.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

guys, guys, guys!

I enjoy “stirring the pot” as much as anybody on these blogs, that’s for sure.

But picking on a 14 year old girl. That’s just not very nice! The way I look at it, most girls HATE baseball. So back off before we lose one that actually likes the game.

Someday, sombody’s gonna make ya turn around and say goodbye!……..Oh! wait, that’s a Wilson-Phillip’s song! LOL!

anywho….someday, sombody will end up with a wife that actually like going to and watching baseball, but not if you guys scare her away from somthing she likes!

Give her a break!

BTW DOB, unfortunately I agree with you, 7.5 games is not that much to make up with the right “tweeks” to this roster. But, JS can do all he wants to the “roster”. I believe some of the guys that need to be playing are already on the roster (40 man at least). So, unless Bobby chooses to put the right guys in (betemit for giles & diaz for langerhans - just a couple of examples) it aint gonna matter. I mean, how long did it take him to make the move on Ray over Reitsma? If this goes on any longer that 7.5 game wildcard defecit is going to be as big as the NL East defecit. If they fall 10 back in the wild card……IT’S OVER!!!!

By Chop Chop

June 16, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

The Devil Rays want to make a Kazmir-style deal for Carl Crawford. In other words, they want to rob a trade partner. The Devil Rays are not dumb enough to take the typical “let’s offer them Langerhans and a pitching prospect” deal that so many bloggers seem to want. The Devil Rays have good outfielders and middle infielders in their minor league system, so that seems to decrease the likelihood of them wanting anything other than top pitching prospects. Since the Braves don’t have many of those, a deal won’t happen.

No, they won’t take Sosa back. Or Reitsma.

(Nice try, though.)

By Mets Stink

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

Great, now you all have ticked off DOB. The Braves can turn things around. Look at Oakland and Houston. It seems like every year they come back from the dead. We can’t focus on how far we’re back. Play one game at a time, and they can get back in the race. JS could help the team out with a couple moves.

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

Thanks Nathan…but nobody can scare me away from a game i love so much. I mean i dont get into as much as the guys do but i still love it. i just didnt see why they wanted to get rid of Giles.

By I think with a drawl

June 16, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

We’re gonna party like it’s 1991!

…we will sweep the S-aucks (that’s Sox with a new england accent) this weekend!!!

-bring in Soriano.

By David

June 16, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

I agree that the Braves are unfortunately in for a couple of down seasons, with new ownership and movements towards rebuilding.Arthur Blank would be perfect for us, but I don’t think it is going to happen. We all need to stand by our team. This is ATL, and we love our baseball, so anyone who isn’t fairweather fan material, step up and support your team, dammit.

I don’t think that trading players like Andruw, Chipper, or Smoltz is a good idea. These guys are the greats. Andruw is too good a center fielder, and we have seen what he is capable of when the three spots ahead of him are producing (Renteria not included). Chipper is still an outstanding third baseman, but he does need to step up as a mentor of the team. That, is not apparent on the field. I agree that LaRoche indeed needs to go. He’s a decent first baseman, but also deserves the name Sir-Wiffs-A-Lot and Lack-O-Hustle. Send Pete Orr away, can Brian Jordan, Todd Pratt, and Langerhans (I like Ryan, but we can do better)The bottom line is we need to spend some cheese and in order to do so we might have to chase a Wild Card for the next couple of years.

By tyyosh

June 16, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

Totally mindless prediction #1 -

The team just hit the bottom, and the season turns tonight. We’ll be there, yelling. Hope for a great one…

By Mets Stink

June 16, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Braves fans need to step it up and support the team. I guarantee the BoSox fans will make as much noise (if not more) than we do this weekend. I wish I lived as close to the stadium as a lot of you bloggers do. Unfortunately I can only make it to a couple games a year. It’s embarassing that we cannot sell out a playoff game. SUPPORT YOUR TEAM OR GET OFF THE BANDWAGON!

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

AMEN Mets Stinks….i totally agree with you…

By Dudlee

June 16, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

Yo Obrien - nice scenario. Why don’t we go ahead and get Soriano too, while we’re signing Crawford and Dontrelle and shoring up the bullpen? Heck, maybe Jason Schmidt would want to come back as well?

We’re not spending big money, hence, we’re not getting big players. New ownership will hopefully translate to more $$ being spent to put a winner on the field. This season is lost — but that might not be a bad thing. We lose one, we might get hungry again.

By Wooderson

June 16, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

John Shuerholtz: “Hey man, you got a leadoff hitter you want to trade?”

Other GM: “No.”

John Shuerholtz: “It’d be a lot cooler if you did!”

John Shuerholtz: “That’s what I like about these high school prospects…I get older, they stay the same age!”

John Shuerholtz: “Hey man, wild card party at the moontower. Be there!”

Tampa GM to John Shuerholtz: “You know that Carl Crawford? Loves you. You want him? Gotta play it cool, you know. You can’t let him know how much you like him cause if he knows, he’ll dump you like that. Believe me. Like, if he asks you if you want a new contract, you say, “No, I’ve got my own contract, but maybe I’ll see you later.” Sounds stupid, doesn’t it? It works.

By jokurone

June 16, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

I’m glad DOB has run op the white flag on the division race. He’s right we need to concentrate on the alternative to the playoff’s com’on JS pull the trigger and let’s see how the race shakes out. we need some new blood to make things more interesting..

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Dudlee i actually agree with you.. i mean maybe if the Braves dont win the Division Title this year they will realize what they are missing out on and push even harder next year to win the division title and make it further than the playoffs. But i still have hope that this year they will take the division title once again

By David

June 16, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

Hudson is coming with the McNasty stuff tonight…complete game is in the air. Oh, and Chipper is going deep. It’s time to get back on track

Is anyone else supposed to be working right now?

By saltlakedawg

June 16, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

All of these trade scenarios are making me dizzy. I agree with AndyW. Let’s not trade prospects to try and make a wildcard run. Come July some of the contenders will be ready to trade prospects for veterans. Let’s unload what we can for prospects and get ready for another run in a couple of years.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

People, Chipper won’t be traded without his permission. It’s not so easy to “just trade Chipper, Andruw, Reitsma,” etc.,

By Jeff

June 16, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Why would the Braves want to give up a lot of young talent for the possibility of a wild card spot? The Braves need to stick with their kids and keep moving the other blue chippers up through the system. Sure, a smart trade here and there makes sense, but why risk throwing away the team’s future for a very iffy shot at post season?

And while I’m on it, the Braves next owners need to loosen the purse strings. A $78 million players budget just isn’t cutting it. Imagine if the Braves had $90 to $100 prior to the 2006 season. Furcal probably stays and management sign a solid reliever. They probably pick up a couple of decent middle innings relievers.

The Atlanta market ain’t New York or Boston, but it ain’t Pittsburgh or Cincinnati, either. Payroll needs to reflect that Atlanta is a top market. Will Liberty Media make that commitment?

What do you say, David?

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Your so right…Glass half full

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

hey, Georgia Tech has given up 8 runs in the 8th to Clemson; Clemson 8, GT 4.

By Yars

June 16, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

The Braves winning the NL East is not going to happen. There only chance is the NL Wildcard. We still have a great chance at winning that. Just look at the teams in front of the Braves right now. A lot of those teams won’t be there come August. The Braves are in a good position to sneak away with the Nl Wildcard only if they address their starting rotation problems. Jorge Sosa is 1-9 right now. Why is he still in the rotation? When are they going to take him out, when he is 1-15 with an era approaching 7.00? When Sosa starts, there is a 90% chance the Braves will lose that game. We need a quality veteran starter right now. As for Marcus Giles, trade him now and throw Betemit at 2B. I don’t think the problem right now is having a lot of holes to fill, it’s that we have some players not playing up to their potential. (Chipper, Giles, Langerhans, Sosa, Thomson, Reitsma) I can’t figure Chipper out. Sometimes he looks like he rather be somewhere else than on a baseball field. Langerhans would be a good 4th OF. It’s obvious he’s not an everyday player. I hope that JS and BC haven’t thrown in the towel just yet. Sure, the NL East is out of reach, but being only 7.5 games out of the wildcard in mid June tells me that if we make a couple of trades that work out, we will win the NL wildcard. The Padres, Giants, Reds, Brewers will slowly fade away. I’m more worried about the Dodgers and Astros. Let’s not give up! We’re pretty much at the bottom of the barrel right now, but if at the all-star break, we are only 3-4 games out of the wildcard, I won’t be worried.

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

Don’t y’all realize that someone posting as “Allyssa” is pulling your leg?? BTW, there have been some pretty neat ladies posing on this blog from time to time and some of y’all were anything but nice to them.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

I’m hopeful that the Braves are developing a lead-off hitter in the minors in light of our recent struggles there. Surely there’s one guy on the farm who can hit for average, bunt, and steal bases…better luck next year, huh?

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

POSTING!!! Shoulda been POSTING!!!

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

hi glennbo, still mad at rankin smith? did you read that he is dead? bob has reported you to the authorities so when they knock on the door just act like you aren’t really glennbo. tell them you are columbo, or gumbo, or how about dumbo? big ears? well, nice to hear from you again. tell us some more baseball. now, the formula for coke is said to be stored in the vault of the old trust company of georgia. bob, if you go down there drop mr. mcelveen’s name and maybe they’ll let you look at the formula. now, john schuerholz will soon be begging for a chance to talk to a rotary club and tout his book. his days as gm#1 appear to be over.

By Murph Fan

June 16, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

This team has had a very bad two weeks. Before that they had a very good two weeks. Before that they had a very mediocre two weeks. My point is that this team has played some good baseball and will play good baseball again. Trades need to be made to address issues but lets don’t completely throw in the towel. I would much rather the Bravos play really poorly now, make some trades and right the ship before the all star break instead of what normally happens. Playing pretty well until October comes around. This team might not have enough to get number 15 but they will get back to respectable before seasons end.

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

I know Chipper hasnt been on his best lately but come on give him a break the rest of the team is in a slump as well but the only one you really bag on is Chipper. He is a very vaulable player we will need and do need. I agree he can step up to the leader role a little more but other than that he is a great ball player. He has had some injuries in the last year or so that has kept him out of alot of games but he comes back ready to play and hangs up there with the rest of the guys that have played full season and Chipper has only played half of the games they played. so give the man a break for once

By Mets Stink

June 16, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

HA! I hate GT. I’m glad their losing. Don’t worry, my Dawgs will come through for the state of GA tomorrow.

By MGL

June 16, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

All “Braves” teams are in the tank. Richmond lost 9 of last 10, Miss. lost 7 of 10, and Rome lost 7 of 10. This virus is contageous!!

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

A Nobody…whos leg am i pulling….all i am doing is putting how i feel in this blog

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

Go ahead and enjoy yourself, Allyssa. After all, I’m just A Nobody.

By mj

June 16, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

The Braves need a bench-clearing brawl. Nothing brings a team together quite like a good ol’ fight on the field. I think it’s poor behavior, but it sures does get a team fired up.

By Allyssa

June 16, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

A nobody…im not trying to be rude or anything casue i am far from that i guess i am just to young to hang with the guys…

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Aforementioned brawl would be great against the Yankees or Mets (especially if Pedro is on the mound…Can you imagine Bobby being thrown to the ground by his ears?).

By Andy

June 16, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this

Listen—-I hurt at the losses—-the way the Braves are playing. But the trading the future for what—a record? Something does have to change though. It will be interesting to see what happens. All the fans screaming about another post season failure—-forgot how good the regular season felt—-it is a long regular season—esp. when you keep losing. I love the Braves—even if….well we went from last to 1st—even if we go from 1st to last.

By Mets Stink

June 16, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

A Braves-Mets brawl would be priceless…

If braves play .600 ball the rest of the year, they win 99 games. If that’s too optimistic, they can play .550 ball the rest of the year and win 93 games. I’d take that after the start we’ve had. There’s still hope to make the playoffs. A move or two to improve the bullpen would sure help.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

drawl - huh? You think “S-aucks” is Sox with a New England accent? If you ever pay a visit to New England, you might want to verify that. (Relax - - just joshing you.)

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

a nobody, you are right about that, and it makes journalist jimmy smith mad that some bloggers cannot be nice to the lady baseball fans who like to post here. if you see carolina lady please tell her hello from cousin jimmy smith and tell her something is eating journalist’s beautiful hostas. maybe she will know of a remedy. she knows quite a lot about important matters and she knows more about the braves and baseball than she received credit for. journalist must lay low for a time while antagonist gets someone to help him with a response to journalist’s earlier post. journalist will take a nap. jimmy smith will set an alarm. someone please wake up bob in time for the game.

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith, I’ll pass your message along. Wife & I have been invited to a cookout tomorrow at her place.

By gjg

June 16, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

Who cares about winning the division every year..We only have 1 world series title during that time..The marlins have 2 and arizona 1 and they both were wildcards..

By john

June 16, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

DOB,You are right,i agree with you,i have been saying the same thing that we need to trade Salty for Willis and bring Scott Williamson on as our closer,he may not be a big name closer but he is descent and did save 21 games a few yrs ago,he couldn’t hurt and sometimes a change of scenery can’t hurt either.Braves need to do whatever it takes to get Carl Crawford or even Joey Gathright,John S farted around this past off season and could have gotten Dannys Baez from the devil Rays but he wouldn’t bend and make a move,that is JS weak point,he waits too late to make any move,he needs to make these moves now.Bobby needs to quit farting around with this lefty/ righty thing that he is hung up on and also this veteran thing,you got talent in the minors then use it,thats what it is there for,it worked last year and why can;t it work this year,you got to give it a try.Bobby got to use Thorman at first and get rid of Jordan,it is obvious his current plan isn’t working so do something else that will.loyalty doesn’t win games.The Braves got rid of Mondesi last year when he didn’t work out so do the same for Jordan,designate him for assignment and do it now. A message to John S,Stop farting around JS and get the ball rolling on DOB’s deals that he mentioned and do it now before someone else does,he who hesitates is lost.

By Carroll

June 16, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

DOB: I also read that Julio Lugo could be traded. I remember that the Braves were very high on him this offseason. He is a high-energy guy who could lead off and play 2B. Then Betemit could be either played in LF, 1B or traded.

By alan

June 16, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

The Braves in a bench clearing? Let’s see…. 1. LaRoche…Rain Man? Come on! 2. Giles…He’ll get down. 3. Renteria…seems too nice but may fool you. 4. Chip…potential brusier if you can get him mad. 5. Langerhans…looks too smart. 6. A. Jones…looks way too sweet. 7. Francoeur…could be playing football at Clemson. I’ll take him. 8. McCann…catchers are always bad asses. I’ll take him too. 9. Hudson…lot’s of tattoo’s. Good sign. 10. Smoltz…too dignified. 11. Thompsom…looks like he’s just waiting for someone to p** him off. 12. Sosa…maybe he can fight. He damn sure can’t pitch.

By elbravox

June 16, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

Manny Ramirez to the Braves for Chipper Jones, will be announced after the game tonight.

By Chop Chop

June 16, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

Mets Stink,

The Braves are 30-37, which is a .448 winning percentage. If the Braves play .600 ball for the rest of the season (95 games), that means 57 more wins (95 times 0.6 equals 57). 87-75 would be their record. That might get them the wild-card. If they play .550 ball, they’d have 52 more wins, which leaves them with an 82-80 record. That won’t get it done.

In order for the Braves to be at a .600 winning percentage at the end of the year, they’ll have to win 66 of their last 95 games (final record would be 96-66). In percentages, that means they’ll have to play close to .700 ball over the rest of the season to get there.

By Kevin

June 16, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

Some moves that should be made

1. Trade for Willis—hope so but not this season—Marlins will not do it and will wait until the offseason when more teams will be involved—but the Braves need some shot in the arm

2. release Jordan—nice guy but he is horrible

3. trade LaRoche—if for nothing else his mental state-hard to play for fans who think he is lackadisical and not interested

4. james in the rotation—no brainer

5. trade for Joel Zumya from Detroit—he is closer material—give Leyland players he knows will play hard and as big as their park is Langerhans might be part of the package

6. Release Reminlinger

7. Move Giles but if WB is wanted then demand a great deal—offer to Rays plus Elvis Andrus/Beau Jones

8. Mix up the lineup—switch the Joneses and drop Frenchy to seventh or eighth

9. Move within the organization TP or place him on notice

Just some thoughts

By carlaven

June 16, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

DEAR PEOPLE ; THIS HAS PROBALY BEEN A BETTER VENU OF BLOGS IN A WHILE .SORIANNO WOULD BE A CANCER yOUR LOVE AFFAIR WITH AJ JUST AMAZES ME.IS THERE A CLUTCH HITTER ON THIS TEAM?WE DO NOT KNOW WHAT GOES ON BEHIND THE SCENES BUT A GOOD “MGR” IS ONE WHO CAN MAKE EVERYONE FEEL IMPORTANT.mG IS COMPLETELY OUT OF PLACE AS A LEAD OFF.wHAT IS YOUR ALTERNATIVE WITH THIS GEOUP ?BC DOES A GREAT JOB,THO HE IS RELUCTANT TO CHANGE.BRAVES PROBLEMS CAN NOT BE FIXED LIKE 30 MIN TV SHOW.AS AN OBSERVER WHO PROVIDES THE “SPARK FOR THIS GROUP OF ATHELETES ? CARL M AVEN

By Clay

June 16, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

At the end of the day, the Braves are still in the National League. So even if they win their division, they’re still nothing more than just the smartest kids on the short bus.

By Chop Chop

June 16, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

Why the hell would Detroit trade Joel Zumaya? Todd Jones is their closer, for God’s sake. They’d be much more likely to trade Fernando Rodney (who’s 29) than a 21-year-old flamethrower like Zumaya, but Rodney’s pitching well for them as a set-up guy.

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

I disagree DOB.Time to blow this roster up and start over,Build around Francouer and McCann.Load up on prospects and make a run in ‘08 with some young,hungry players with a new mgr(Cox will likely retire in ‘07).I don’t think this team would make the playoffs even with the additions you suggested.Once Roger comes back,Houston is going to win the wild card anyway.Something should have been done this off-season.That ship has sailed.Time to face reality.Fire Sale is the way to go.

By Kevin

June 16, 2006 05:55 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop

It was a suggestion and if you can fill holes then why not at least ASK for him and his price—no way would I take Todd Jones—for the Braves to get back in the race I think some suggestions have to be outside the box so to speak. Also the only Brave mentioned in Jayson Starks latest column to be traded was Reitsma—no Giles and the Braves were barely mentioned in conjunction with anyone that has been mentioned on this blog, which may be good or bad

By Chop Chop

June 16, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

By the way, Rob Neyer has a good article today about the Braves on ESPN.com.

You have to have the Insider subscription (which isn’t worth the money) to read it, of course. He basically says that the Braves need to look to the future this year.

As much as I don’t want to, I agree with him on that. It would take a Herculean effort for this team to win the division, and it would be no small feat for it to win the wild-card. When you have eight teams ahead of you in the wild-card standings and you have as many problems in as many areas as this Braves team does, it’s hard to imagine them passing all of their competitors. To me, it makes more sense to focus on what can be done to get this team ready to compete for the postseason next year.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not waiving the white flag, but if the players don’t turn things around, they’re waiving it.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

Rosenthal mentioned Reitsma to the Rockies for a AAA 1st baseman, but that ended when he landed on the DL…way to screw us again.

By Chop Chop

June 16, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

Or “waving”…

I must’ve been thinking of waiving Reitsma. Or Jordan. Or Orr. Or Villarreal.

I know what you mean, Kevin. It wouldn’t hurt for Schuerholz to ask about good, young players like Zumaya. I just think he’s probably more focused on players that could realistically help the Braves turn things around this year.

Stark also mentioned Thomson in the pitchers’ listings, but that’s not a surprise.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

I’ve been among those expressing frustration over Bobby and Terry apparently not emphasizing and enforcing fundamental baseball.

Maybe that’s the problem … perhaps they think that “Earl Weaver Baseball” is exciting, “Fundamental Baseball” … it seems that’s what they’re teaching and that’s what they’re preaching … and I’m not talking about computer games.

Earl managed for the three-run homer … and lately it seems that so does Bobby, even when a single will get the job done.

By Amber

June 16, 2006 06:06 PM | Link to this

Show of hands… Who’s going to watch the weekend series just to see the Red Sox in action?

By Kevin

June 16, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop

Please do not take my post as negetative, I get ESPN insider also and I read the Neyer article as well. I would not sell assets that could help in a few years either if that is the direction management wants to take. The players to be moved need to be probably Giles, and definitely Reistma and LaRoche. The Mets are becoming the Yankess of the NL and everyone else in the division is going to have to win with smaller payrolls. Kasten will make the Nationals competive and the Philles and Fish are anyone’s guess. The wild cards are hudson—he does not have a no trade clause and Andruw jones—will Boras price him out of town. Chipper is on the down side of his career—I think he has had too many nagging injuries the last few years to be a dominant threat he was in the past. One name that was mentioned in Olney’s blog that might be worth pursuing is Kerry Wood—make him a closer—he is good for 1 time through the lineup and the Cubs can not ask for a kings ransom either

By David O'Brien

June 16, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

Dudlee, what’s your logic in lumping Soriano and Jason Schmidt in with the suggestions I made? See, each of those players makes twice what any of the ones I listed were.

But good try.

By Jay

June 16, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

At your suggestions…

1. Dontrelle aint happenin. They need to keep him for the stadium push. If they were going to trade him, they would have done it this past offseason when he was cy young runner-up, not when he has a sub-.500 record.

2. Crawford would be a solid upgrade. His obp is around 350ish, same as most of furcal’s good seasons. Problem is it will cost us A LOT…ive read around four prospects. Another problem is we are far from the only team interested in getting him. It would be worth it in the short and long term…unless we want left field to be constant 260.15.70.

3. This would help us the most. Even one solid reliever would help settle down the pen. A closer would be preferred but probably aint happening. If we could get a fireballer setup man and use him like a closer (Farnsworth was this last year) and use Ray as our setup, I think our bullpen would fall into place.

By Jman

June 16, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this

DOB: Have you heard anything? I agree that those moves would definitely help the Bravos. I have been hoping for a deal for Crawford for the last couple of years. I really like Crawford. I know you said these are very unlikely but have you heard anything impending or likely?

By UpperDeck4Life

June 16, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this

I agree with DOB on trying to get Willis and Crawford, what could it hurt to try. *Look if you have a 22 year old catcher who if he had enough at bats would be leading the league in batting, why do you need a 20 year old catching prospect, besides, I like what I have seen from Pena when he has come up.
*Renteria is having a great year and the team has 2 top SS prospects, ya ya one could be moved to second but why keep both, pick one and trade the other. *Thorman is having a really good season down at AAA, bring him up and let him platoon with LaRoche and Langerhans, if he keeps it up, I say LaRoche is expendable. *Hampton comes back next season, and unfortunately no one is going to trade for him coming off of surgery, so we are stuck with him at the back of the rotation. Why not keep james and trade Ramirez and maybe Davies to get a front of the rotation guy.

So the following people could be traded, wheither it be for prospects or for young MLB players (ie Willis and Crawford): LaRoche Ramirez Davies (only if we get Willis) Salty SS prospect and possibly Giles or WB, we already have a utility guy in Orr and Tony Pena didn’t look that bad when he came up.

All of that should be able to get us 3 important pieces, bullpen help(or closer), a front line starter, and a leadoff guy.

By Austin

June 16, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

Crawford is hitting .302 with 8 homers and 21 SB 5th in AL and only K’s 12.1 % of the time compared to Giles 22.6%

By nathan

June 16, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

Bob the journalist…..

you haven’t been paying attention for the last decade. Bobby’s been playing for the 3-run homer since 1993 (once mcgriff was on board - a.b.c baseball went out the door). Look at all the “speed” guys we’ve had in here that he’s turned into “hackers”. To name a few: Furcal (96 stolen bases, last season in minors), Grissom (consistantly in top ten in SB’s before joining braves), Lofton (not nearly as scary as he was with indians - and 10 years later seems to be back to his old ways with dodgers), Heck! Even andruw used to steal bases.

Now I understand that SB’s don’t tell the whole story. But with contact hitters (guys that know what to do with the bat), you can hit and run, straight steal, advance runners, foul pitches off until you get the one for a Sac Fly or ground ball to the right side etc…..you get the picture.

91 & 92 Bobby played small ball because he had the players to count on to execute it. Otis/Deion, TP, Gant came up as an infielder so even he knew how to bunt, Justice hacked a little bit, but he could hit lefties and take them the other way, Bream - not sure what to say about him - but he wasn’t a power hitter - so he rarely swung for the fences, blauser/belliard did the small things witht the bat to help you win, as did greg olson AND MOST OF ALL: EVERY PITCHER ON THE STAFF NEW HOW TO BUNT!!

I’m just probably exaggerating here, but my guess is that in the last 2 seasons, the starting pitchers have FAILED to lay down a sacrifice bunt successfully mores times than Glavine, Smoltz, Avery, Leibrandt, Maddux, Millwood etc… did in the previous 10 years. But I bet I’m not too far off!

The old saying goes: Pitching, Defense and the 3-run Homer!

I’ve said it before and now I’m gonna say it again: this team needs (3) 3-run Homers to have a chance, so Bobby has his work cut out for him, i guess!

So we all know that bobby has managed the “old fasioned” way in the past. Is the problem “upstairs” with the kind of players that JS is filling this system with? Or is it in the minor leagues, where they just aren’t teaching “small ball” anymore. I was never a big fan of Jeff Blauser the player, but I bet he turns out to be one heck of big league manager some day. My gut tells me that he will replace Bobby when that time comes, not TP. But that’s just a guess.

By Mr. Met

June 16, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

Hey Eric the Elder, I know I said I wouldn’t come back to the Braves blog any more this season, but I wanted to respond to your entry to me. Thank you very much for seeing my point of view as a New York Met fan, and as you being a Braves fan, your response was thoughtful and respectful and I wanted to let you know that. I have nothing against anyone personally on this blog, hell, I don’t know any of you, but as I said in my entry, my coming on this blog was only in response to those Braves fans who felt the need to come on the Mets blog and say things that we as Met fans already knew about our team the last few years. We sucked and the Braves were good and wininng the division, year after year. But as said, no need to rub this current situation in anyone’s face. There’s still a half to go and anyhting could happen. Hell, we still are the Mets for Christ-Sake. So let this whole thing play out and see what happens. But come on, you can see why Met fans are a little giddy right now can’t you? Anyway thanks Eric for you response. Good Luck the rest of the way.

By Jean

June 16, 2006 06:35 PM | Link to this

There must be some reason you are not a general Mgr. yet. You can fix a lot of things on paper.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 06:36 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

Normally, my response to your “It would take a Herculean effort for this team to win the division” comment would be suggest that we immediately start making that effort … but, when coupled with Chipper’s “the odds are stacked against us anyway” response …

I can’t see a lot of difference between this year’s team and the 2005 crew … except that maybe this one should be a little better.

Streaks always end … but it would be so much easier to take if they went out like Champions rather than Losers … so here’s hoping that they make the effort, win or lose.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

June 16, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

DOB, please tell me what you think about this. I honestly believe that most of the moves that need to be made can be made in house. First of all this team is not out of the wild card. People, get real. This team isn’t anywhere near as bad as they have played. And, again, if you look at the recent loses most of them can be attributed to the bullpen. Let me start with the move that has to be made out of house. The leadoff problem has to be solved. Now, if we could get Crawford, that would be nice. But, that may be a little too ambitious of this team. But, Joey Gaithright, on the other hand, could be done. The asking price for him will not be nearly as high and he will solve the problem. He certainly couldn’t be worse. For the in house moves, here they go. Jordan and Pratt must be released today. I know they are nice guys but are completely useless and detriminal to this team. Pena and Thorman should be brought up. This platoon crap that Bobby is infatuated with has to stop. Is he telling me that LaRoche would hit lefties worse than what Jordan has. Stop it! Next, James needs to be placed in the rotation and either Thomson or Sosa moved to the pen. When Davies comes off the DL the other one should also go to the pen. I hate to see Giles go but he has value and should be used as such. To the people who don’t want to get rid of Salty may I ask why? We have a catcher. His name is Brian McCann. Put Salty at 1b you say. I say we have two first basemen in Thorman and Jurries. Lastly, Terry Pendleton needs to be sat down and told to get his head out of his butt or lose his job. Don’t tell me that these guys aren’t listening to him and he is telling them to be patient. He is not telling them that. It is obvious they are doing what they are told to do, which is be “aggressive”. BS! You’re telling me that all of a sudden Chipper, Giles, Renteria, and Langerhans forgot how to hit. Give me a break. Even LaRoche is striking out a lot more than he has in the past. You can count on one hand the number of times you have seen a bunt attempted. Bobby and TP’s philosophy of the 3 run HR and this “calm cool collected” attitude is stupid. These guys need to do the fundamentals. Pure and simple. Say what you will about Ozzie Guillen but I wish he were our manager right now. Do you think this team would be playing the way they are with Ozzie as the manager. No way! He would have long ago got into some people’s butts and challenged them to play better or they would ride the pine. Lets not forget that he sat Frank Thomas because of his p** poor attitude and lack of production. Where is the emotion and excitement of this team. I remember Justice, Gant, Glavine, Avery, Stanton, Belliard, Lemke, Blauser, and TP (yes, TP) wearing the rally caps and constantly showing enthusiasm and encouragement in the dugout. This team sits there like they are at an insurance seminar. Its pathetic. Even Francoeur and McCann’s enthusiasm has been quelled. DOB, I love Chipper (he is my favorite player) but he needs to have a players only meeting and get some folks fired up and then go into Bobby’s office and tell Bobby to get his act together. That is his job as the leader of the team. This team is playoff caliber. I don’t care what anyone says. But, I am starting to agree with the folks who say the “leaders” of this team are more like frauds. Somebody prove me wrong! Please! This can’t end like this!

By Sammy Kershaw

June 16, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

Here Here David finnally someone who is not a raging lunitic.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

John Rocker…..Is that you posting as Mr. Met?

Just kidding man! Very well thought out post. Worded very nicely. Fans need to be competitive for “water cooler” bragging rights. But there is no need to be jerks to each other. I’d rather be jerks to felow braves fans that don’t see it my way! LOL!

Anyhow, good luck the rest of the way (from fan to fan). Enjoy it while it lasts, your pitching staff is old, and this lowsy group of braves will be looking for work very soon. So the next wave of Baby Braves is on the way! LOOK OUT!

Later man!

By Robert

June 16, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

There’s a new book being worked on that should hit the shelves soon

“Donkey in the Dugout” - the story of Bobby Cox’s Braves Teams

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith wept. yes, journalist jimmy smith just read a moving article on the atlanta braves site entitled “mccann remembers father as coach” … it seems that elder mccann taught brian well and has produced a fine catcher who is one of the best hitters in the major leagues right now. journalist says hire this man to work with frenchy and some others.

By Scott

June 16, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this

I just want to know why the Braves take so long to do the little things. Like taking the ball away from Reitsma before he losses anymore games? Or like getting Chuck James into the rotation. Everyone and their sister could have seen what is going on with Jorge Sosa. His WHIP was ridiculous last year and you can only get out of so many bases loaded jams without giving up any runs. It’s just a matter of time. Schuerholtz should have traded Sosa when his value was at an all time high last winter. They should have used some of that money they got from Chipper, some of the money they got from insurance for Hampton, and some of the money they saved by going with Renteria instead of Furcal, and used it on the bullpen. It’s as simple as that. Schuerholtz didn’t make a move during the winter when he should have.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

I can’t agree more about Ozzie Guillen!

We let him slip away….that’s too bad, he’s a good one!

I like his fire. Last year as a former teamate and current manager of Frank Thomas, he “called him out”. Brilliant move, it let frank know who’s BOSS and what he expected of his “superstar”…..NO FREE RIDES HERE PAL!

Besides, you gotta like Ozzie going on record saying he wants his players to retaliate for getting beaned. Heck, if that isn’t a “player’s” manager, I don’t know what his, who wouldn’t want to play for that guy? (Maybe Frank Thomas, that’s about it! LOL)

He manages like he played. Hard, agressive, and correct!

By Mr. Met

June 16, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Let me make this perfectly clear. I am and have always been a Mets fan. When the Mets stunk, I loved them. When the Mets rocked, I loved them.

If the Mets fall apart this season, and waste an enormous lead in the NL East, there is no doubt I, and millions of other fans, will lose some sleep.

However, right now, on June 16, 2006, all Mets fans should be reveling in what is shaping up to be a special season. The likes of which we don’t see too often.

To be honest, I am sick and tired of people (Mets fans and non-Mets fans) telling me to relax because, because it’s only mid-June. Why should any Mets fan chill out? This is some of the most exciting ball this team has EVER played. Shouldn’t we celebrate this early/midseason accomplishment?

It’s fun.

I get it. The players and the manager have to say the right things. They have one goal: to be the last team standing. The last thing they want to do is show up the competition by pounding their chests.

But what’s wrong with fans feeling proud of the club they’ve supported through some horrendous times?

Nobody has anointed the Mets World Champs I know that. I’m not under the false impression that they will coast into and through the playoffs. It’s entirely possible that the Mets may end up as merely a good team, not a great team. They may lose in round one. They may have to scramble just to get into the postseason.

Doesn’t matter.

If we can’t enjoy this incredible ride, what’s the point in going to games in May or June?

If we can’t call our friends and go on blogs and talk about the double play David Wright started in Philadelphia, or Tom Glavine’s resurrection, opps, sorry, sore subject, why do we watch at all?

When a team that seemingly has a group of very likeable players on its roster, it’s all the more reason to feel proud of what they’re doing on the field.

This team has an extra likeability factor. It’s not often in this age of astronomical salaries, steroids and ‘round-the-clock gossip chat rooms and blogs that fans can say they are happy “for” the players. Most times, we are happy for ourselves because of the support we’ve given the franchise over the decades. Braves fans can understand that, right?

For the most part, this group is media-friendly. Many are fan-friendly, and what is obvious to me is that they like each other. If there is tension (all clubs have their issues behind closed doors), they do not bring it to the dugout or to the field.

So, congratulations to the Mets, their fans and the front office for an amazing early season ride.

We intend to enjoy it while it lasts.

You never know when the Braves will make their move or if this club will fall back to the pack.

By Riley Martin

June 16, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this

Does the good journalist have any updates on the baby seal contract negotiations? I am hearing from my sources he is asking for quite the signing bonus. Anything at this point will be an upgrade at many positions and may propel the Braves to the stratosphere and things of this nature.

Anyone ever think last year you would be missing K Johnson.

By krath

June 16, 2006 07:07 PM | Link to this

Well the Mets fans should be proud! Whether we Braves fans like the Mets or Not…like some of the Mets fans or not….the fact is the Mets are for real this year and are not going to fold! These aren’t “The Mets” that Mr Met says some refer to. These guys are for real!

I still think the Mets will deal for one more pitcher before the July deadline.

They may not win it all but they will win the East.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

June 16, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

If the Braves have no intention of trying to win this year or can’t because of the sale, then they need to be honest and tell the fans that. They also need to be smart and start planning for the future.

It begins with trades. Trade Renteria, Giles, Smoltz(if he wants to leave, LaRoche, and Andruw. Yes, I said Andruw as in Jones.

Here is my reasoing. Are we really going to be able to sign him after 2007. He needs to be sat down and asked if he has any real intentions of staying. If not, then ship him out. I would hate to see him go, but let’s get some value for him. The Yankees would sign him in free agency. So, I say trade him there now for Melkey Cabrera, Andy Phillips, and Robinson Canoe or at least two of the three. The Yanks would make that deal. Package Andruw and Giles and send them to the Yankees. We would get quality players in return. Trade LaRoche and either Salty or Pena to Tampa for Crawford or Gaithright. Trade Renteria and Langerhans to the Cubs for some pitching .

Our lineup could be: 1B Scott Thorman 2B Robison Canoe SS Wilson Betemit 3B Chipper Jones LF Carl Crawford or Melkey Cabrera CF Joey Gaithright or Andy Phillips RF Jeff Francoeur C Brian McCann SP: Hudson, Smoltz? James, Davies, and Ramierez Closer: Who knows? Maybe Sosa?

In any event, this could be the team of the future and at a lot cheaper price. The pricey contracts of Andruw, Renteria, Giles, and Thomson would be gone.

I think this is more than possible. So, what does everyone think? Think I’m nuts?

By nathan

June 16, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

Mr. Met

As far as Glavine being a “sore spot” don’t appologize. He abandoned us. Yeah, fans were a little hard on him around the strike he not only was the braves rep, I believe he was the NL players rep as well. He had to expect backlash. But, good luck with him in the post season, he’ll give you 5 or 6 good innings and then he’ll blow it!

Other than the WS Clinching 1-hitter he tossed vs. Cleveland in 1995 he pretty much was a .500 pitcher in the post season. Not to discredit that performance - it has to go down as the greatest moment in Atlanta sports history and one of the great alltime pitching performances. BUT! It happened to be against a team that greatly resembles the Braves team of the last 10 or so years. HACK AND JACK all the way baby! Just the type of teams that Glavine and Maddux have ate for dinner their entire careers. Think about it: Other than Lofton, All Hackers! Baerga - Hacker, Thome - Hacker, Young Manny Ramirez - not nearly the hitter he is today, Albert Belle - good hitter pumped full of HGH if you ask me, Eddie Murray was way past his prime, Vizquel could probably fit in the same category as Lofton, Paul Sorrento? are you kidding me? HACKER! Didn’t they have Tony Pena Sr.? - not a hacker, but not a threat either - though I think he hit homer in the series…..not sure!

you get the idea, not exactly the most patient hitters that were willing to take that change up the other way. They took the bait, hook, line and sinker! But like I said, we gotta enjoy that moment, cuz we may never see it again. So for that I thank you Tom Glavine (and Poole for hanging that slider to Justice!)

All the teams that played small ball, ate the braves alive in the playoffs. That and One Hit Wonders hitting timely HR’s (Lyritz, Sprague, Dykstra, Ausmus etc….)

Not sure how I always start off on the topic I’m replying to and then end up on some tangent, freaking out about old sour grapes.

Let’s kick some Boston BUTT!

By glennbo

June 16, 2006 07:23 PM | Link to this

“journalist” jimmy smith, your are right about one thing: rankin smith is dead. and he died a failure. never did reach the promised land. adopted into a family of wealth,the best he could manage was one divisional title. speaking of divisional titles, the Braves have had their share. and now that the streak is over, it makes me wonder if one of rankin’s smiths is hiding out somewhere in the front office. any scoops to be had, jimmy (of a journalistic kind, that is).

anyway, saw something in a post of yours the other day. you mentioned attending one of the two universities in Atlanta, but not ga. state. so i guess that means that you went to Emory. (i won’t hold that against them, though i would think they might frown on all the 3rd person schtick.) oh, well. gotta run. don’t have as much time to waste here as you do. (you’d think an education from Emory would go farther than just the ajc blog.) enjoy yourself.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

Nathan,

Perhaps you’re right! I’ve haven’t been paying as much attention as I should … but, then again it would be hard to be a proponent of “get ‘em on, over, and in” or “hit ‘em where they ain’t” baseball and not recognize that something else has been emphasized in Atlanta for many years.

You don’t need blazing speed to actively employ good bat control and baserunning into your game strategy.

Even so, good fundamentals win games, bad fundamentals lose; especially one-run games! Of course, there are exceptions … sometimes you might hit 8 homeruns against a team that hits none … and win by one.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this

I LOVE IT! 8 homeruns and win by 1!…..or if you are the 2006 Braves, lose by 1. That seems to be the theme!

PS: I do realize that you are referencing the CUBS game a few weeks back. BTW!

I can here it now in about 20 years:

“were here at the ballpark talking with longtime Braves manager, Jeff Blauser. Jeff, how did you come up with your current style of managing?” Jeff would respond: “I’m not sure, Chip. I always thought that playing for Bobby Cox, I would employ the Pitching, Defense and the 3-run Homer theory. But I decided to put my own twist on that theory after watching the 2006 Braves. I decided you don’t have to have all of those base runners to score runs. My theory is Pitching, Defense and 8 solo homers. If we can get that every night, were gonna be competitive every game”

…….sometimes I even make myself laugh!

By johnmrog

June 16, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this

Trade rumors and rumblings:

• A deal with Minnesota sending Marcus Giles and Jorge Sosa to the Twins for Joe Nathan
• A deal with San Diego sending unconfirmed players to the Padres for Dave Roberts and an unconfirmed relief pitcher

How reliable is this info? Well… I head if from a friend who has a friend in the supposed Brave’s “circle of trust”.

So take it for what it’s worth.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

this should be an offensive explosion tonight…..with Jordan, Pratt and Giles in the lineup!

COME ON BOBBY! THROW THE DAMN BOOK OUT THE WINDOW OF THE NEXT CHARTER PLANE! THAT BOOK IS NOT THE ANSWER!

Hey! Maybe Nick Esasky has finally gotten over that case of vertigo, and he could platoon with LarRoche. Since he never played more than ten games before he went down, is he still under contract?

BRIAN JORDAN IN THE STARTING LINEUP! THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

Mr. Met, you’re a class guy - good posts! I’m sorry that some Braves fans were rude on the Mets blog. If you’ve read much here, you’ve seen that some who claim to be Braves fans are, in fact, crass, shallow, boorish, and a total embarrassement to everyone including themselves if they had the intelligence to realize it.

I truly don’t expect our team to recoup enough this year to be a factor in any race. In that light (I DO have to be loyal!), I wish y’all well and hope you enjoy every second of this season. Represent the NL East well this fall. We’ll be watching, too! Next year we may in head-to-head competition again, but may we all remember that it is a SPORTING competition and personal respect must never be forgotten in the fervor of that competition. Enjoy it!

By JJMB

June 16, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this

Good choice Bobby. Stay with a winner. Giles (oh my gosh, he struck out!?) plays and Betemit sits. At least he’s playing Diaz…

By metsmanintheatl

June 16, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

there you go!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By elbravox

June 16, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

For god’s sake! Pratt, Jordan again? I think Cox is throwing in the towel. He wants time off in early October, again.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

I DON’T GET IT. HOW IN THE WORLD DID THE RED SOX JUST SCORE?

I DIDN’T SEE A HOME RUN!…..YOU’VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME. ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY GET 3 HITS IN A ROW AND THAT COUNTS ON THE SCOREBOARD THE SAME WAY HR’S DO?

WOW……WHY DON’T THE BRAVES DO THAT? THAT SEEMS LIKE IT WOULD MAKE MORE SENSE.

HMMMM! I GUESS YOU LEARNS SOMTHING NEW EVERYDAY!

THIS TEAM SUCKS! 2ND INNING AND HUDSON’S PITCH COUNT OVER 30. WHAT A JOKE. SORRY TO BE TYPING IN ALL CAPS, BUT IF I WERE TALKING THIS POST TO SOMEBODY, I’D BE YELLING IT.

By Mr. Met

June 16, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks A Nobody. You are somebody.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

Dave Roberts is 34 years old and a career .267 hitter. I hope that “rumor” is just that!

By Hunk Erdown

June 16, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Maybe we’ll have a Mets—Yankees World Series this year. I’m not a Mets fan but that would at least be worth watching. As far as the Braves… As long as Cox is Mgr, you can forget it. The way he insisted on putting Reitsma in, the way he filled out the line up card for tonight’s game, the way he jacks his finger up his nose, we need a Mgr with some fire, someone who will put players on notice that you don’t hustle, you don’t play. Give Cox a friggin ticker tape parade and everyone who wants can go to downtown and bow down to him, but get him out of here.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:10 PM | Link to this

GREAT AT BAT FRENCHY!

I’VE DECIDED THAT I’M GONNA ALWAYS POST IN ALL CAPS, BECAUSE IT ANNOYS ME WHEN PEOPLE DO IT, AND SINCE I LIKE TO ANNOY PEOPLE, IT SEEMS LIKE THE RIGHT THING TO DO.

YEAH, LET’S LET THIS KID GET THROUGH THE FIRST 3 OR 4 INNINGS ON 25 PITCHES.

IT’S A GOOD THING THAT THE BRAVES AREN’T A CLINIC. BECAUSE THEY’D GO BROKE DUE TO THE LACK OF PATIENCE!

By Hal

June 16, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

Does anyone think its fair we have to play 7 against 9 ???

If we have to play Jordan and Pratt they should have to play Pesky and Williams i know ones 80 and the others dead still……..

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

HUDSON IS A JOKE. ACE OF THE STAFF SKIP SAID AT THE BEGINNING OF THE RADIO BROADCAST. YEAH RIGHT, REITSMA IS THE ANCHOR OF THE BULLPEN. HEY THAT’S SOMTHING REITSMA WOULD BE USEFUL FOR…..BOAT ANCHOR!

J/K PEOPLE……………….I DON’T OWN A BOAT, SO THAT WOULDN’T DO ME ANY GOOD.

By Hunk Erdown

June 16, 2006 08:16 PM | Link to this

If the Braves had a Mgr or Coach, Francour would be put on notice that every time he comes to bat he cannot swing his bat until the pitcher has thrown 2 called strikes. Break the rule and its a $5000 fine. In two weeks he’d be twice the hitter he is now.

By Hal

June 16, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this

I dont agree Hunk in two weeks he would be BROKE lol

By Hunk Erdown

June 16, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

ur prolly right

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

OH NOT SO FAST, HUNK ERDOWN!

IF THEY TOOK THE AGGRESSIVENESS AWAY FROM FRANCOEUR, HE’D BE NO GOOD TO ANYBODY.

I MEAN COME ON! WHAT THE HECK DOES MCCANN THINK HE’S DOIN TAKING SO MANY PITCHES AND GETTING ALL THESE BASE HITS. THAT .350ish BATTING AVEREAGE ISN’T DOING ANYBODY ANY GOOD. IF TP COULD JUST GET MCCANN TO BE A LITTLE MORE AGGRESSIVE, HE’D EASILY HAVE 10 MORE HOMERS AND SOME MORE RBIS. OF COURSE HE’D STRIKE OUT EVERY 3RD AT BAT AND BE BATTING .245.

SORRY FOR MY SARCASM, HUNK ERDOWN! I COULDN’T AGREE WITH YOU MORE.

54 PITCHES FOR HUDSON THROUHG 2 2/3 INNING PITCHED………NICE. COME ON RED SOX HACK A LITTLE, HELP US OUT!

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

HAL…..DO YOU THINK IT WOULD TAKE 2 WEEKS?

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this

oh, it’s june…time for hudson’s annual trip to the dl

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this

YOU GIVE TEAMS LIKE THE RED SOX EXTRA OUTS…….YOU WILL PAY!

THIS IS WAAAAYYYYY TOO PREDICTABLE.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this

Hudson gives a disgusted look at Diaz who just about ran through a wall to try to catch the foul ball. Isn’t Hudson the one who walked the bases loaded?

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this

“strained oblique” will explain all these walks

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this

and all these runs

By Hal

June 16, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

the guys making up the tv schedule got this wrong should be on TBS NOW THIS IS FUNNY TV lol

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

I can really do without a-hole fans who don’t cheer for the home team…see all the sox “fans?” Disgusting!

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

TO THOSE OF YOU WHO THOUGHT OR THINK WE COULD TRADE TIM HUDSON. YEAH WE COULD PROBABLY GET DAN KOLB EVEN UP FOR HIM.

TALK ABOUT A HORRIBLE TRADE AND LONGTERM CONTRACT. YEAH, JS IS A GENIUS.

ANYBODY OUT THERE RATHER HAVE JUAN CRUZ RIGHT NOW? I WOULD. YOUNG, CHEAP, AND UNFORTUNATELY FOR US BETTER THAN TIM HUDSON.

SOMEBODY EARLIER TODAY WAS SAYING THAT WE NEED A BENCH CLEARING BRAWL TO WAKE US UP. I AGREE, BUT I THINK THE ONLY BENCH THAT SHOULD CLEAR SHOULD BE THE BRAVES. KIND OF LIKE IN “MAJOR LEAGUE 2”. THEY SHOULD JUST KICK EACH OTHERS A$$.

BTW….NICE “PAD MY STATS” WORTHLESS 2-OUT HIT FROM GILES.

BACK TO THE BRAWL…….IT SHOULD START WITH DIAZ KNOCKING HUDSON’S BLOCK OFF FOR GIVING HIM THAT LOOK YOU MENTIONED IN THE ABOVE POST (I’M LISTENING, NOT WATCHING SO I DIDN’T SEE IT)

THIS IS A JOKE!……EXCEPT IT’S NOT EVEN AS FUNNY AS MY LAME A$$ JOKES.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

HAL….I’M A LITTLE SLOW. I JUST GOT YOUR JOKE.

LOVE IT!

KEEP IT UP MAN!

By elbravox

June 16, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

THIS IS STARTING TO BE FUNNY-NOT

By Hunk Erdown

June 16, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

OH NO!!!! Jordon is hurt!!!

By fart

June 16, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this

JS,it is time to either s** or get off the pot,if you are not going to fix this situation the Braves are in then it is time for you to resign.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this

NOT TO BE AN A$$, BUT.

IF THAT WHAT IT TAKES TO GET JORDAN OUT OF THE GAME…..I’M ALL FOR IT.

CUZ BOBBY SURE AINT GONNA TAKE HIM OUT.

THANK YOU “BAD HOP” GOD.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this

HERE’S THE DEAL……I’M GONNA KEEP POSTING IN ALL CAPS UNTIL THE BRAVES ACTUALLY HAVE A LEAD IN A GAME.

AND IF THE GET SWEPT BY THE RED SOX, THEN I’M GONNA POST IN ALL CAPS AND BOLD!

SO, ALL THE BRAVES HAVE TO DO IS SCORE A FEW RUNS AND I’LL GO BACK TO POSTING MY SARCASM IN “REGULAR” TEXT.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

A base on balls needs two guys - - a pitcher who doesn’t throw strikes and a batter who doesn’t swing at balls. The Braves are halfway there. We have a pitcher who doesn’t throw strikes, but out batters swing at balls. Glass Half Full, is this what you mean by glass half full?

Don’t you love announcers? Hudson walks the bases loaded and then throws one behind Cora. Gant says that Hudson is struggling a “little bit” and he held on to that pitch a “little” too long. Must be the Bob Uecker School of Broadcasting.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

OH NOW WITH NOBODY ON AND NOBODY BEHIND HIM IN THE ORDER, HE’S GOING TO SHOW PATIENCE AND DRAW A 2 OUT WALK……NICE

By Hunk Erdown

June 16, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

Stop the Presses!!!!! Francouer walks!!!!

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

HOW MANY PITCHES WILL IT TAKE ADAM TO K?

3 IS MY GUESS!

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

Lance Cormier is our starting pitcher tomorrow. Is there no limit to the depravity?

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:54 PM | Link to this

I WAS WRONG. THIS IS THE NIGHT IT ALL TURNS AROUND. WALK TO ADAM

AND A GS FROM PRATT!

By TennesseePaul

June 16, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this

So sick of the freakin’ platoon. So sick of it. Why? What the f^ck do we get from the platoon? What kind of advantage is it to have Jordan in the line up? (.214 ave, .175 against lefties) He has 7 hits. 7 hits! Against the lefties!
Why is it McCann is benched? He’s the best hitter on the team? Is it because Cox sees .190 average against lefties? Well, let’s take a look… Pratt vs. Lefties: .138, 3 BB, 12 K. McCann .190, 4 BB, 4 K. That’s in a third fewer at bats… No matter how you cut it, McCann is a better choince than Pratt. I know McCann needs a day off. Let Pratt catch Ramirez. Do that and Ramirez will kick @ss.

Until then, Cox, it might just be easier if you forfeited the game instead of running a platoon joke lineup out on the field.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this

WHAT DO YOU MEAN ERIC!

I WAS SOOOOO IMPRESSED WITH HIM, ONE INNING AT A TIME. THAT I WANTED TO SEE HIM PITCH MULTIPLE INNINGS. WHY DON’T WE JUST CONVERT REITSMA BACK TO A STARTER. SEE IF HE CAN GIVE UP 20 OR 30 RUNS IN 5 OR SIX INNINGS.

JS AND BOBBY ARE GREAT, AREN’T THEY?

By Robert

June 16, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

And what’s the Manager of the Year been doing thru all of this?

Wiggling his ears, shuffling his hooves, and shooing flies with his tail

I think I just saw Pendleton feeding him a carrot

Everybody sing - “There’s a donkey in the dugout”

By Andee

June 16, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

I’m a Mets fan, but I haven’t come here to neener-neener at y’all. I really do hope the Braves get better. Seriously. I want a real pennant race, and I want the Braves to be in it.

I honestly think one of the reasons the Braves didn’t do better in the postseason during all their first-place finishes was because for the most part, they owned first place. Finishing first was almost too easy for them. Hence, they didn’t have the urgency going into the playoffs that other teams had, the ones that really had to fight for it and still had momentum going into the division and championship series.

I saw what happened in 2001 when the Mariners won 116 games and were virtually on autopilot the last two months of the season, and when they got to the playoffs they played like it and wound up getting spanked by a vastly inferior Yankees team (boo! hiss!) in the ALCS. I’ve been a Mets fan for an embarrassingly long time. I don’t want them to waste a great season that way.

So please Braves, find your lucky laundry (maybe it’s in Mazzone’s old locker?) and get back into this thing! The Mets deserve — and need — some real competition out there.

By David O'Brien

June 16, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

If Twins were going to trade Nathan to Braves today, I’m guessing they wouldn’t have had him throw 42 pitches in a two-inning save Thursday night. Know what I mean?

And seriously, how do you think that trade would go over in Minnesota, where they have 2B Luis Castillo putting up far better numbers than Giles. Or do you think 1-8 Sosa would be the difference-maker to sooth any ruffled feathers?

By Robert

June 16, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

To the slowly but daily increasing number of folks whose eyes are being opened to the ugly reality of Bobby Cox’s donkeyhood, think about this

The other teams have known this - for 15 years

If a donkey can win 14 straight division titles, how many World Series titles could a halfway competant human manager have won?

By brian

June 16, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

Why does Thormon get little respect from the Braves? Also here, everyone wants him up at 1B to replace Jordan/Laroche or Langy but everyone looks at him as a short term solution. Why??? He was a number 1 pick in 2000 I believe. Why doesn’t he carry the tag of a top prospect? I think he gets overlooked.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

Andee, nice post. However, the only way the Braves can get back into this is for your guys to let us win all our remaining games against them. Somehow I don’t see that happening. Enjoy your season. Yours is the better team this year.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

DOB

EARLIER TODAY I AGREED WITH YOU THAT WE HAD A CHANCE IN THE WILD CARD. WELL 4 HOURS LATER I WILL SADLY TAKE THAT BACK. IN ORDER FOR THE BRAVES TO EVEN REMOTELY CHALLANGE FOR THE WC. THEY NEED STRONG OUTINGS FROM SMOLTZ AND HUDSON. IF THE DON’T GET AT LEAST THAT, THEY HAVE NO CHANCE!

GUT THE WHOLE DARN THING. SELL EM ALL.

EAT THE MONEY. DO WHATEVER CAN BE DONE TO RID THE CITY, FANS, AND NEW OWNERS OF THE AAAA TEAM. (I SERIOUSLY DOUBT THEY COULD BEAT AAA TEAMS RIGHT NOW - AND I’M NOT KIDDING)

KEEP MCCANN, GIVE FRANCOEUR ONE MORE YEAR, KEEP BETEMIT, KEEP STOCKMAN, KEEP RAY, KEEP MCBRIDE, KEEP JAMES, KEEP DIAZ AND DUMP THE REST.

DOB……I DO UNDERSTAND THE “ECONOMICS” OF BASEBALL, AND THAT IT’S NOT “PRACTICAL” TO DO WHAT I JUST SAID TO DO. BUT, I DON’T CARE!

FANS SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY MONEY TO WATCH THIS TEAM PLAY. THEY SUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK!

IF THIS GAME WAS ON TBS, I WOULD’VE SHUT IT OFF. BUT SINCE I’M CLEANING HOUSE, I’LL KEEP IT ON THE RADIO FOR HUMOR, CUZ I CAN LISTEN AND WORK AT THE SAME TIME.

By Blake

June 16, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this

nathan,

quit posting! you are a moron and everyone is dumber for reading what you write

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this

Nathan, what Cubs game?

As much as it pains me to say it, I’m looking to you to be a role model for the young people now visiting and participating on this Blog … some seem lost and looking for direction.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this

From a nobody to A Nobody who’s now a somebody … nice post!

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this

BOB….DIDN’T WE HIT 8 HOMERUNS AGAINST THE CUBS AND BARLEY WIN A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO!

BUT I GUESS I’M THE ONLY ONE WATCHING THESE GAMES.

AND BLAKE, I’M HARDLY A MORON……I JUST CALL IT LIKE I SEE IT. IF YOUR TOO DUMB TO REALIZE THIS TEAM AINT GOING ANYWHERE, THAN YOU ARE THE MORON!

AND FOR THE RECORD, THAT IS THE 1ST TIME ANY OF MY POSTS HAVE “PERSONALLY” ATTACKED ANYBODY WITH NAME CALLING. SO, PARDON MY FRENCH……”YOU’RE AN A$$”

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

hey, glennbo, jimmy smith did not know rankin smith well but journalist knows he could write a check and you didn’t have to call the bank to see if it would clear. why do you hate him so? did he fire you at some time in your career? jimmy smith doesn’t think rankin smith ever had an asphalt company but can’t be sure. don’t worry about it - laying asphalt is hard work - supersizing is gonna suit you better, and give you a better temperament. say hello to your mombo for jimmy smith.

By Postal Joe

June 16, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

Frenchy is so predictable.

By JJMB

June 16, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francouer is, simply put, a dumbass.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

NOW I’M MAD……

BLAKE, IF YOU WANT ME TO QUIT POSTING. POST SOMTHING WITH SOME SUBSTANCE, IF YOU WANT TO CHALANGE MY BRAVES KNOWLEDGE….BRING IT ON!

OTHER WISE SHUT YOUR TRAP! ALSO, YOU HAVE TO REALIZE, US MORONS ARE SUCKERS FOR BEING (NICE AT BAT FRENCHY!), BAITED INTO ARGUMENTS. SO YOU TELLING ME TO QUIT POSTING, MAKES ME WANT TO POST MORE OFTEN!….THAT WAY, IF I ANNOY “YOU” ENOUGH, YOU’LL LEAVE!…..BUH BYE!

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this

nathan, you often say you like to get our goats, and that’s fine. You are a little excitable, but you aren’t a moron. But really, nathan, how about losing the caps.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

FOR YOU ERIC I WOULD LOVE TO. ALL FRENCHY HAD TO DO WAS HIT A HR! (IF YOU READ MY EARLIER POSTS) UNTIL THEY TAKE THE LEAD, THE CAPS STAY!

By Brian, Sandy Springs

June 16, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this

Everyone keeps talking about the genius of John Schuerholz, but let’s take a closer look at some of the trades:

Jermaine Dye for Keith Lockhart Ryan Klesko for the bum that Giles replaced (so bad that I can’t remember his name) David Justice for Kenny Lofton (UGH)

This is a small but glaring example of some of the BS that JS has done.

This Braves team has NONE of the emotion of last years team, and will finish last in the East. As a season ticket holder, this is in-excusable.

BTW, I sold my tickets to a Sox fan for $200.00 each. Not bad considering I paid $27 for each of them.

By Blake

June 16, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this

I have looked through this blog and I swear you are on it all day. Here is a hint, get a job and move out of your parent’s house.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this

I’m just kidding, I was actually just waiting for sombody to ask.

WOW. a 1-2-3 inning. when was the last time Hudson had one of those?

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

Nathan, TimeWarner recognized the problem long before you … but seem to have taken your advice … provided Bud approves the sale.

Maybe Bobby and the team are actually on strike … trying to send the new owners, whomever they might turn out to be, a message … evidently it’s encoded.

Seriously, they need our support on the Bloga and at the park … they’re trying harder to play well and win than many of us are to be good fans of baseball.

By Blake

June 16, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

okay,

enough Nathan, I am sure you mean well and say what you want about the Braves. They do suck now, just dont type 2 pages about it once every 2 minutes

By Mikeymike

June 16, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

yeah, 2 walks in the inning, the guy is all over the place and Franc swings at the first pitch. someone needs to be fired, ehem, pendleton, ehem

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

journalist bob, a nobody is going to see carolina lady tomorrow. we should expect nothing but class from a nobody and he has not disappointed. now, nathan … baby seal is reading this blog and glennbo … please be nice. now, carroll, what is this hunk erdown stuff?

By Mikeymike

June 16, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Ok here goes…

Laroche,You can only use the excuse “I’m waiting for him to come out of it, he has really good stuff.” for so long, I think 3 years is enough. Laroche hasnt proved a thing, his laxadazical efforts defensively and his long slow swing are not only boring, but useless at the major league level. Yes he is consistant, but in the negative way such as consistantly keeps his Strike out to at bat ratio atrocious (1 K every 3.8 ABs)and consistantly whiffing on inside breaking balls.

No need to explain Reitsma’s situation. The guy is just bad, I don’t care if its mental, physical or delusional hes just bad. I don’t know what the expectations were for him because it’s not like this is NEW news to anyone the guy has never been a great calibur pitcher.

Next we speak of Giles. I wish i could see the statistic of swing and misses because i think Giles might blow everyone away, he swings and misses more than anyone i have ever witnessed. If he changed just ONE thing about his hitting not only would it guerantee his average to sky rocket but it would put a huge charge into this team. LEVEL OUT YOUR SWING, uppercut swings are meant for guys who are only paid to hit Home runs- like Adam Dunn, Ken Griffey Jr. Jim Thome, Marcus Giles does not come close to these guys’ stature nor power. Level your swing, as a result of this you won’t miss so much, you will hit more linedrives instead of striking out or popping up as he does most of the time. Defensively he is fine.

Jordan is finished at this level. Great guy, but being a great guy should not issue you an Untouchable status at this level of competition.

Pratt, while probably having excellent coaching abilities, is in the same boat as Jordan. Slower than average bat speed (and the rest of their speed for that matter) and both are liabilities late in ball games for this club.

Chipper is smaller this year in size. He changed his work out routines over the off-season to enhance his flexability to decrease chances for Injury. He must not have thought this through completey, changing your body style and habits is going to effect your “I’m use to this” every day abilities and you need to adjust to this, and by adjusting I mean change your approach. Chipper said something that bothered me a while back, he said “My average is over .300 but they don’t pay me to hit singles, they pay me to hit the ball out of the ball park or drive it into the gaps.” This bothers me because They are all payed to play the game of baseball, as hitters they are payed to get on base, if i am not mistaken 99% of managers/coaches would rather see a player go 4 for 4 with 4 RBI singles, than go 1 for 4 with a solo home run. Your attitude should not be, I need to hit it out on this pitch, it should be “Hit the ball hard and good things will happen.” Especially when you’ve lost a step.

Andruw will always be Andruw. Defensive monster. Roller Coaster of a hitter. He needs to stop trying so hard to make the Highlight real with a 480 foot home run and hit the other way once and a while or maybe stop guessing which causes him to swing at the “Next thing comin.”

Francoeur I will give a little more than 1 more season before I give my opinions on him. Yes he needs to be more selective. But the guy hasnt played a full season yet and i won’t bach him until he messes up (Like Laroche) after 2+ full seasons, although he could tone it down with the Throws from right, lay off the Red Bull Jeff.

McCann, I liked from day one and ever since i saw him i was asking why he wasnt starting over Estrada. Now he is, and he is making us all proud. lets hope he keeps it up.

Langerhans needs to stay in the dugout until a pinch hitter is needed to get rid of a left handed pitcher. Give the starts to Diaz. He has proven to be a good hitter, not an every day good hitter, but an improvement over langerhans, and not a defensive liability. Unless we can trade for someone of tall stature, Diaz is left fields Answer.

Renteria, while proving to be a great offensive addition, has been costly defensively, I’m not talking about errors here because most shortstops make an abundance, I am talking about his weak arm. that weak arm has cost us more double plays and infield hits than i care to remember. I could just be spoiled by Furcal, but i seem to remember Belliard and Blauser having better arms than Edgar does. Betemit has a great arm and would be a great shortstop if given the chance.

Leave Orr where he is at the moment. I like him off the bench for some reason.

Coaches, Pendleton must go. Period. His hitting knowledge is very limited, He had one good year as a hitter, that does not mean you know what you are doing. He needed a job and Cox gave him one, the job happens to be a vital one to this organization.

McDowel i am prepaired to give another seasons chance. He inherited a depleated bullpen and 2 great starters. Smoltz and Huds records should be better than what they are. Kyle Davies was coming along very nicely. Most of us new Sosa would be a better selection from the bullpen being as how his ERA from the stretch is 2.49 and from the wind it is 6.37 (am i the only one who pays attention to that?) Thomson was a problem from day one with the Braves and Rameriez is showing improvement but he has always been an up and down pitcher.

Cox needs to shake up the lineup, thats all. I’ve noticed he has shaken up the lineup 3 times this year, all resulting in Offensive surges and winning games, however the next game after the shuffled lineup, he puts the old lineup back on the field and its the same old thing all over again.

Remlinger is toast, it’s sad when you are considered a left handed specialist and you are better against righties. Poronto is promising, Reitsma is toast. McBride is promising. Ken Ray is promising, more on him later. Cormier needs to go in a package deal with Villareal.

Ken ray should not be expected to close games starting in the 8th inning. The guy is great as a middle relief pitcher. then you tell him he is closing, ok great. He did a great Job closing in the 9th for 3 games. next you tell him he is closing but now we need 2 inning saves from him, whats next? Pinch hit and win the game for us because villareal game up 4 runs in the 8th and lost us the lead? The guy hasnt played in the majors in seven years and your asking him to perform like hes a 15 year vet whos been closing all his life. Get real Cox.

Betemit, Play him… ANYWHERE, get his glove and his bat in that EVERYDAY lineup. No one cares where you play him, He needs to start to grow. This man has the potential to be an MVP. trust me. First base is open without Laroche and Jordan, give him 1st no matter what you like or dislike about it. He can adapt.

With Pratt gone, bring back Pena. he did a great Job in McCanns absence.

With Jordan gone bring up Thorman and Platoon him with Diaz if Diaz begins to struggle.

If giles can straighten out his swing and get hot let him play. If not Lets see how Betemit does everyday at second and play thorman at first. Anything is better than LaroJordan platoon right now.

Bring back Chuck James to take Sosas spot in the rotation. Bring up T. Smith to take Thomasons spot in the rotation. Ask Sosa to be the 6th 7th inning guy and see how he handles it.

These changes can turn around the team, they are not that drastic and very realistic. Only one thing stops this from happening. Bobby Cox and his undying loyalty.

Winning Lineup:

LF. Diaz -(He sees a lot of pitches and hits linedrives SS. Renteria 1B. Betemit CF. A. Jones C. McCann 3B. C. Jones RF. Francoeur 2B. Giles Pitcher Winning rotation

Hudson Smoltz H. Ramerez C. James T. Smith Closer: Ken Ray Set up: Chad Poronto (18 games 2.50 ERA) Middle relief Core: J. Sosa, Stockman, Yates LH specialist: Mcbride, Remlinger

Bench: Orr, Pena, Thorman, Langerhans

All changes are within the current possibility of the team. I listed no trade possiblities here because The braves have always tried to grow within the organization and i see no possible trades out there that could benefit the braves for more then 4 months. EXAMPLE: Fred McGriff, Greg Maddux, Tim Hudson, Gary Sheffield, Edgar Renteria and Marquis Grissom.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

Actually, blake I own my own business, a quite successful one I might add. And if you could actually read, you would’ve read earlier in the week that I was (and still am on vacation), so yeah, I have a lot of time on my hands.

I realize they probably don’t let you surf the net at Sonic, but some of us do have internet access all day long, no matter how hard or long we work. So why don’t you ask your manager at Sonic if you can take some extra time off after school, to sign up for that reading class you need to take.

By MBATL

June 16, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

Nathan, all caps amounts to “shouting.” If that’s what you’ve got to do to feel like you’re being heard, okay. As to your Braves “knowledge” apparently in the space of half a game you’ve gone from feeling we have a chance at the wildcard, to having no chance.

Trades are fun to talk about, but the first thing you have to decide is, what are we trying to accomplish? If it’s a playoff run this year, then you trade prospects for veterans to help in the 2nd half. If you’ve given up on this year, then maybe you trade veterans for prospects.

I don’t know that the Braves have decided which of those scenarios we’re dealing with.

Not much positive to say about the Braves right now, but clearly from reading here it’s easy to kick a team when they’re down.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Well, nathan, the thing is - - you have a lot of knowledge, wit, and passion. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has always enjoyed reading your posts. But the caps are annoying, and I’m afraid you are inviting folks to scroll past them. Your call, of course, but I hope you’ll get back to being you.

By hammerdown

June 16, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

I’m a big Francoeur fan, and think he will be a major talent, but his on-the-job training is just alittle painful to watch. I’m a fan of “see the ball, hit the ball”, but, gosh, you have to have SOME game-situation awareness, no? Bosox pitchcer is having trouble throwing strikes, bases loaded, two outs, you have to take a strike, no? He’s really got to start having some kind of game plan when he comes up.

By Blake

June 16, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

Everybody is a CEO! Congrats to you! I hope your business does well. I am about to quit Sonic and maybe I could clean your pool or wash your ten cars. Seriously, your not a moron (even though I dont know you) just tired of scrolling through ten pages of caps

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

MBATL….wondering where you’ve been!

nice to hear from you.

I’m torn on both sides. I keep convincing myself that they are still in it. But everytime I let that thought get in my head, they play like they have tonight.

So half of me thinks, yeah, let’s shoot for next year, make some modest trades “tweek” a little here, a little there and we’ll be fine.

The other half thinks, dump it all, start over and lets go get em’ in 2008.

And I realize you can’t have 3 halves, but there is a part of me that wants to go “buy” some players with trades of the farmhands, to make a push this year. But, if that’s going to happen, it’s gotta happen now!

BTW the “all caps” thing was a joke, that carried on too far, but nobody called me on it. Sorry to those of you just showing up.

So, I’m sure that doesn’t clear anything up, but right now i’m just a really confused fan. with this “ownership” thing going down, our “high priced” veterans sucking, and Bobby sitting on the bench like it’s all just gonna change on it’s own, it’s really hard to watch.

But to sum up the Braves season I’ll paraphrase Jerry Seinfeld: “The Braves are kindof like an eclipse and cleavage, you know you shouldn’t look but you just can’t help it”

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this

mbatl, you stated the issue as well as I’ve ever seen it. On which of those two scenarios do you come down?

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

Blake I appologize. My business is not that successful. But I do get to make my own ours, and I don’t have to ask a “boss” for time off, so I’m not complaining.

It’s not like me to attack people like that. Again, I’m sorry.

In the future, please resort to outwitting my, leave the name calling to acutal MORONS.

Seriously, I acutally posted that I was going to stay in “all caps” until the braves took a lead. I also in the same post, stated that I realized it was going to annoy sombody, all you guys had to do was ask.

Sorry guys.

PS. to anybody out there that actually works at Sonic……Keep up the good work. I love those Cherry Limeade Slushes! YUM!

By MBATL

June 16, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

Nathan, good response… thanks. I feel the same way; seems the opportunity is running out fast for this year. I’m hoping playing some big-time competition the next 2 weeks will inspire the team a little; but above all think we have to be careful about making desperate moves because we’re playing badly.

hammerdown, I agree. I don’t want Jeff to be ordered to take strikes… it’s not his style, and what’s the point of putting a free swinger in the hole; but yeah, a little discipline in a situation would be nice. I guess it’s part of learning to be a major leaguer, but it is tough to watch sometimes. I’m a big Frenchy fan, but am frustrated too.

Blake… ha! I’m “ceo” of my own company also (and also secretary, garbage man, accountant…), but can’t really brag about how hugely successful we are, so far anyway. Plenty of time to blog! When I have my pool built, you can come clean it, no charge!

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

Didn’t we “Pass” on Rudy Seanez this offseason.

Come to think of it here are 3 players we “passed” on over the winter.

Nomar Garciaparra

Rudy Seanez

Tom Gordon

That’s not to mention the guys that were on the roster we let walk. (Furcal, Farnsworth)

I was all for letting the inconsistant furcal go. But I’m beginning to second guess that thought. Right about now is when he’d be heating up and carry us on a 25-5 run to get back in this thing. But he still aint worth no 39 million for 3 years.

JS has done good things in the past. But time to face facts, he had a HORRIBLE winter.

By Dean

June 16, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

The Braves trully suck this year. Who would have thought it. Its only a matter of time now before attendance looks like the marlins..

By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

I’m serious on this one.

Time to go OLD SCHOOL Braves.

With all the empty seats Dean is talking about. And it will happen after Interleague is over.

Drum Roll Please…………

It’s time to put the TP back in the Left Field Seats. BRING BACK CHIEF NOKAHOMA!

Some how I have this feeling it would be like the first Major League Movie. A TP, A lot of empty seats, and two guys in headdresses beating on a Drum! That would be AWESOME!

Plus that’ll bring out Skip’s famous quote “Lot of fans at the ballpark today, dressed like empty seats”….You gotta love that one! Skip is slicker than a peeled onion!

By nathan

June 16, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

And no…..I didn’t mean to put Terry Pendelton out in the left field seats……come to think of it, that’s a GREAT IDEA!

Of Course, I meant to type TeePee.

By Deaner

June 16, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Can’t wait to see the new nasty falcon D, and the New UGA offense. Come october football fans won’t even remember who the loser braves are..

By MBATL

June 16, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this

Wish Diaz had made that same play 4 innings ago; to those who are mad at Hudson for giving him a “look”, are you the same ones wanting a little more ‘fire’ out of this team? Can’t have it both ways. Hudson had every right to be p’d. Nothing against Diaz, but that was a terrible effort that hurt us bad.

Nathan, agree, JS is having a bad year, as is virtually everybody else in the organization. I sure thought we’d go after a closer… not Wagner, but yeah, Gordon, T. Jones (who has a bunch of saves but really hasn’t pitched well), Baez, Hoffman… somebody. I guess they thought Devine and/or Reitsma would get the job done.

I wanted Nomar too… didn’t care what position, just think he’s a great ballplayer (and he coulda’ played pretty much anywhere).

Oh well…

By MrC

June 16, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

This is getting ridiculous. Has Frenchy even seen a pitch he didn’t like. Its not like he hits a HR every 10 at bats which then you don’t mind if he swings for the fences. I am getting upset. I could vent for a while but this is just plain stupid.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this

glennbo, journalist understands you have to leave when the bell rings, but come back to the blog after the customer has been served. you provide levity when the braves are not going well. now, did you forget the atlanta university campus? narrow minds often have narrow focus. your hated rankin smith had many good qualities and his philanthrophy is legend. he touched more people’s lives in a positive way than you acknowledge. now, take a break, go have a smoke, get yourself a lottery ticket on the way home. have a nice night.

By Postal Joe

June 16, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this

Nathan, If you really want to go old school, start lobbying for ostrich races and high wire acts above the stadium.

By old timer

June 16, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this

OK, nathan. Next winter we’ll do it your way. We’ll wait until June and then we’ll know which free agents are going to do well in the first half and we’ll sign some of them and then we’ll get off to a good start.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

mbatl, one of the rare times I disagree with you. Here is what I would like to hear Diaz say in the clubhouse after the game:

“Hey Huddy, I ran full tilt into a wall to try to bail you out on that foul fly. Okay, I could have played the ball better, but I don’t need you looking out at me with that disgusted look and showing me up. Especially not when you jogged out a bunt and would have been safe on the errant throw if you had just run it out.”

I would prefer Hudson to show some “fire” in the way he plays rather than in blaming others.

By Mothball

June 16, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

This team needs a Tabasco enema. It’s like watching Night of the Living Dead.

By hammerdown

June 16, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this

for years, Braves moves and player decisions have worked out much more often than not, and it appears the law of averages is just finally catching up. Most of the Baby Braves have regressed, which is not exactly uncommon for second-year players; the veterans are underperforming pretty much all at the same time; absolutely every pitching move has gone belly-up, and certainly losing Boyer and Foster early didn’t help the bullpen. You expect, I think, to have some player moves not be successful, but I don’t think JS or anyone else would have expected the magnitude of what has actually happened.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

Yes Nathan and Virginia, there is …

But the Cubs gave that game to us … we didn’t win it!

Glennbo, you should read more closely before you respond. There are a few more than 2 Universities in Atlanta. As an aside, you’re missing a good bet by not learning to laugh a yourself.

Better a “third person” shtick innocently used in good taste than one based on attacking the integrity and character of those with whom you disagree.

If you’re lucky, you’ll one day have the opportunity to decide those things with which you want to be identified. I can only suggest that expertise in character vilification and assassination from behind an identity veil isn’t exactly something of which to be proud.

By MBATL

June 16, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this

Eric… I would hope it wouldn’t get to that. I’m sure once he cools down Hudson will have no problem with Diaz’ efforts… but it was a bad play (not a lack of effort!) and at the time I could see Hudson being upset.

But, point taken… I sure didn’t mean to trash Diaz, and I do think Hudson is competitve in his own play - I must not have been watching on the bunt play… but that does seem to be kind of a consistent problem with this team.

By Robert Disenchanted

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

I am so disguted with Frenchy. If he wn’t listen to Tp he sould go back to AA and learn how to situational hit. TP should be in his grill telling him quit trying to be a star and play the game the way it is supposed to be played. I could careless if his parents or friends are in the stands. The pitcher was strugging and he just walked the bases full and BANG Frenchy swings at the first pitch and ground out 6-3. If he would have let the game come to him and not been so aggressive the Braves would have gotten to the pitcher. Now is hitting is suffering because he tries to make the perfect throw. Please TP tell him to PLAY the game the right way. You should have seen the expression on TP face when he grounded out 6-3. Please quit tring to hit home runs at every at bat. Please Frenchy just play the game and work the count and the game will come to you. Right now Frency you would swing at a ball 2-3 feet outside because you are so geared and desperatley trying to make that big hit. Please just play the _amn GAME. Here we go headed for another loss and JS I hope your suspenders pop, and Bobby don’t lose to much sleep driving back to the farm. At this rate we are headed for 100 loses.

By brian

June 16, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

I agree with DOB on the Twins trade (I know that makes him feel better that a chump like me agrees with him) - it would cost more than Giles and Sosa for Nathan and they would make us take Stewart as well and his salary.

Much more likely is Giles and/or LaRoche to the Cards for Wainewright. He would be a solid addition. Could close and at least would be a solid set up man, with the possibility of rejoining the rotation in a year or two if the Braves are lucky enough to swing the Willis deal or Crawford deal and have to deal Davies. I would actually prefer Wainewright to Nathan in the grand scheme of things. Not so everyday Eddie can be had to take Remmie’s spot for a not so top level prospect.

Finally, believe it or not, friends of mine who are Cards fans are excited abobut the possibility of Marcus to the Cards and they even would like LaRoche to fill in while Pujols is injured and then to back him up when he returns

By glennbo

June 16, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

“journalist” jimmy, i notice you like to play that fast food card. i wouldn’t really know about what goes on in your typical fast food joint as i generally eat organic foods. i do, on occasion, grab a chik-fil-a sandwich, though. but its nice to see that you understand the workings of a fast food establishment.

(i actually abhor fast food because of its dangerous content. did you know that insects won’t even ingest the trans fat that is used to make french fries.)

so keep on being the one-trick pony. it suits you.

By Deaner

June 16, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

Its only a matter of time now before fans show up with brown paper bags over their heads..

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

About a bench clearing brawl that wil never happen if BC is managing. Now if that was Qzzie Guillen he would say thrown down and lets get it on. Heck the BRAVES are chicken to throw up and in on hitters. Wes Helms should have gotten buzzed since he was always looking for the inside pitch to pull. We have no guts to stand up and fight. Let’s just quitely go meekly into the night. Where’s your PRIDE MEN!!!

By Mothball

June 16, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

Diaz took a bad angle, but you can’t fault the effort which is what this team has been sorely lacking. Then, Hudson proceeds to walk the bases loaded and groove one for Varitek. Dousing yourself with gasoline and asking for a light hurts.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

HUDSON is a big JOKE. He makes a mess and then blames it on everybody else. Go on and trade him.

By bob

June 16, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this

MLB gameday froze. What happened in the bottom of the 9th?

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this

Hudson glares out at Diaz on his misplay that ended up costing the Braves 3 more runs in that inning.Yet Hudson loafs down the 1st base line on his bunt in the 5th inning that could have resulted in a 2 on nobody out situation due to the bad throw from the pitcher.If Hudson is safe there,the Braves score at least one more run in that inning.No telling what could have happened at that point,as Giles (gasp) followed with a single.Then the bases would be loaded and nobody out.

This team isn’t loaded with talent.Everybody knows that.But the little things are not being done,and every mistake is magnified.Then things start to unravel.This team has to play hard every single play to even remotely have a chance.Now we all know Schuerholz dropped the ball this off-season when he failed to upgrade a declining team.All the while the Mets were making significant,shrewd moves.

Bobby deserves his fair shair of the criticism,because this team doesn’t play hard,and they don’t play fundamental baseball.And he’s done next to nothing to shake things up to light a spark in this lethargic bunch.

This debacle started in spring training.Sosa,Smoltz,Chipper,Andruw,Reitsma,and Francouer missed too much of spring traing for the World Baseball League.The pitchers,especially,didn’t get enough work and get in proper shape.Then Bobby has to call out Giles in the media just to get his sorry butt to report to spring traing.

I’m sorry,but trading prospects to try and salvage this lost season would be moronic.This team is done.They now expect to lose,and are looking very familiar to some of the late ‘80’s teams that finished last every year.Blow this roster up and start over.

By eric the elder

June 16, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this

mbatl, yep, I think Langerhans would have made the play on the foul fly, especially being left-handed. On the bunt, Pratt was one first, no outs. Hudson puts down a good bunt and then trots toward first, bat in hand. When he sees that the throw to first is way off the mark, he speeds up and was barely out. Giles follows with a single. If Hudson had run it out, we would have had the bases loaded, no outs. Instead, first and third with one out.

I’m probably being too protective of Diaz, but his muff occurred in the same inning that Hudson walked the bases full and then gave up the 3-run double. Ah well … probably didn’t matter.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

Crowds don’t go and watch this worthless team that JS constructed. Resign and go read your book and tahe He Haw COx with you.

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith and Bob, From the cradle, my mama drummed it into my head that you should always treat people the way you want to be treated, so all the credit goes to her. She would be real happy to read your words! Thanks!

We’re going over to (whoa, I almost wrote her name here! She’d have my head!) Carolina Lady’s tomorrow for a cookout. She’s good people. Well thought of hereabouts.

Well, we lost another one. What is it going to take to break this ‘spell’??? Ummph.

By Robert

June 16, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

And that is that - The Red Sox exchange handshakes ansd high fives. The Braves gather their equipment and head for the clubhouse. And Terry Pendleton ties a carrot to a stick, slowly entices Bobby Cox to his feet and then down the tunnel to the stables. Once in the paddock, Cox’s mane and tail will be groomed, after which he will lie down on a fresh bed of straw and begin to think strategy for tomorrow’s game.

By Mothball

June 16, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

I’m pleased with Frenchy’s effort. Another 10 feet and he would have had that one! Clearly, his diligent study of “Pulling for Power” is beginning to pay dividends.

By JournalistBooger

June 16, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

I don’t know but “Allyssa” sounds an awful lot like Bobby Cox!

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

Would someone tell LaRoche to go away because you can’t hit left handed pitching. Please tell Jordan father time has come calling and take Pratt with you. It’s time for Brian McCann to take the reigns and just play. We don’t need any veterans because they are not helping or lighting a fire under their butts. If I here Stu make any more excuses I am going to puke.

By MBATL

June 16, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this

Thanks, eric. Again, I’m not down on Diaz, just also not down on Hudson for getting upset (if he even did).

As to Guillen… his actions the other night on the retailiation were terrible; he’s a loose cannon who blames his players when they lose, but has the best talent in baseball. Let’s not be too quick to make him a hall of famer. His schtick would get pretty old pretty fast on a bad ball club.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this

I know Diaz isn’t the prototypical lead off hitter, but isn’t it worth a shot? .354 avg, obp .377 over 45 games. Not too bad. And since this team doesn’t play small ball, does it matter that he’s not a threat to steal?

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this

MrC, it has been for a long, long time. The splash that he made when first called up, served us well … but, it may have robbed him of a great career.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Oh Bobby have you ever heard blowing off steam on your team. Hudson is a veteran and is way overpaid and should be winning between 15 - 20 games a year. BC why don;t you call out Hudson for barely running on the bunt.

By TMAX

June 16, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

And they lose again. Good thing changes have been made… they might have won. Maybe the Braves are looking for a low draft pick? Maybe they have stopped taking HGH and other stuff… naaah, they still swing like a bunch of girls.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

Guys, Francoeur is 22 years old and hasn’t played the equivilant (sp?) of an entire season. Let’s not give up on him yet. He’s on pace to hit 30+ homers this season.

By Robert

June 16, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

Once in the paddock, Cox’s mane and tail will be groomed, in preparation for the mandatory press conference. Once the press is assembled, the auctioneer will allow each to ask Bobby a question or two, and to examine his teeth and gums. Press conference over, the carrot and stick routine will be repeated until Bobby is safely inside his private stable for the evening. Were the team in first place, a willing lady burro from one of the nearby farms might be waiting inside

By Mikeymike

June 16, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

read my previous post, thats all that needs to happen for us to be succesful with this bunch.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

I got it guys maybe 96 rock should pull all the highlights between inning and start playing the lowlights in how we LOSE the game. We are the worst team in the MAJORS. Thanks a lot JS and TIME WARNER.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

good news! Baltimore beat the Mets 6-3. At least we didn’t drop in the standings.

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

8games under .500 and counting……

By Sick and Tired

June 16, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

Time for the Jones boys (Chumper & Whiffer) to start taking criticism. They are the $15M men and the veterans of this team yet they have done little to nothing to help this team. Chumper looks like he is done and Whiffer just doesn’t care.

I hope they enjoy the sellouts this weekend because they will be the last of the year.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

MAYBE JS will come to his senses when we are 20 games back. JS this is not the 1980’s. Please tell Bobby to move Giles out of the leadoff spot. Oh yeah who is the boss when you are talking to the managers. If Bobby doesn’t care for it tell him to hit the road.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

Trying to be positive: Houston was 15 under .500 at one point last year and they went to the World Series.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Old Timer…..

I was all for Gambling on Garciaparra in the Off Season. He’s not always healthy. But neither was JD Drew until he came here. Plus he would’ve been quite the utility guy. Since he played every infield postition and left field last year for the Cubs.

Gordon would’ve been a risk. But I was never comfortable with settling for Reitsma. I thought Devine would be our closer. But I figured Gordon or Jones (todd that is) would’ve at worst case scenarios been good set up men.

So before you trash me for acting like I’m saying “now look” we should’ve signed these guys. Maybe you should pay attention to what I normally say. I may be a little radical and obnoxious, but usually I’m pretty darn dead on with my opinion of who we should pick up, call up and or dump.

and MABTL…….I’ve got no problem with Hudson giving a look to Diaz for missing the play. But not after walking two batters. Then walking the bases loaded. That’s all on him. It goes back to little league, high school, prep, college and minor leagu ball. You walk batters, your defense is lulled to sleep. Throw strikes and people will be on their toes and ready to play. But for the most part I completely agree with you.

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Welcome to Atlanta Royals baseball.

By brian

June 16, 2006 10:48 PM | Link to this

I agree Half Full. Francoeur is only 22. He will not hit his peak for 3-4 more years. Although he has never seen a pitch he didn’t like, I am not worried about him now and he should be a cornerstone for future Braves teams.

I am more worried about Chipper and his lack of power and injuries (funny how this has happened over the last couple of years. either he is simply getting old and worn down or….), and especially lack of leadership. I am of course worried about the bullpen, 1B, 2B, LF, and management. I think it is getting close to time for the Braves to decide whether they go for it now or sell of everybody and start over with a 3 year goal of returning to the playoffs. I personally like DOB’s plan above, which although gives up some prospects, leaves us set for many years at all positions.

By Andee

June 16, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

I’m rather bemused to see Braves fans dumping on Bobby Cox. He was Manager of the Year last year, did he suddenly get stupid? No, not any more than Willie Randolph suddenly became a genius. (Most Mets fans would laugh hysterically to hear “Willie Randolph” and “genius” in the same sentence. The man is Torre-turnkey all the way. Fortunately Omar M. built him a roster he could handle.)

Cox does some dumb things strategy-wise. So do most managers. But he’s held some very vulnerable-looking teams together with chewing gum and chicken wire all these years. And he was instrumental in rebuilding this franchise when it went bad. I’m sure he’ll do it again, unless AOL gets a big attack of the Duhs and gets rid of him. Then some other struggling franchise will scoop him up and he’ll rebuild them instead.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

I am so sick sick of the post game show with Stu and Mark. Please quit sugar coating the analysis and tell the truth. I guess they are afraid of ramifications. They are paid to tell how it is.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

bob, you hit the glennbo on the head. now, third person … used once by dob on this very blog! noted third person communicators include of course, the talented letwan anthony aka journalist jimmy smith, and numerous well intentioned and humorous imitators on this blog who have made third person posts. glennbo will probably remember famous third person communicator bob dole (adopted into banana family fortune and had a failed run for leader of the free world = loser). anyway, jimmy smith read bob’s post and realized jimmy smith may be guilty of being too hard on the beav … er, the glennbo. jimmy smith will now be nice to glennbo for the balance of the night, 10:45 PM, right bob? do you know where your glennbo is?

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

I know about the 10-5 crap, but if we’re done by the deadline would Chipper accept a trade to his beloved Dodgers? Hey, he said he was a fan in that “rare commodity” commercial. They’ve got a good farm system and could help us rebuild.

By Mothball

June 16, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

Great news! Florida beat Toronto moving us up to one game out of last.

By MrC

June 16, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this

I am not giving up on Frenchy. Far from it. I consider him untouchable. But my gosh!!!! Use your _amn brain. Fundamental baseball. You don’t swing until a strike is thrown after a 4 pitch walk to the previous batter. If am not mistaken, that is two game in a row that he has done that. Very, Very Frustrating!!!!!

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

Maybe BJ could be disabled until Sep. 1st like last year…

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Those Marlin kids are playing good baseball because they don’t realize they’re not supposed to win this year or next.

By MrC

June 16, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

Random thoughts…..just have to vent.

Trades are not going to happen. If just one of the 3 happen the DOB suggests it will be a miracle. We essentially have what we have in regards to personnell. Fantasyland is over. Trade this trade that. Not going to happen.

I am not really that high on Betemit.

LaRouche needs to play first. Who we got that is better?

Don’t you wish we had DeRosa back?

The team is not as bad as the last 18 games (3 and 15). They also not as good as they played in May. .500 club this year.

McCann is the only player on the team that will work a count. Remember Franco taking pitches until he got strike?

More ramblings later

By Bobby Cox

June 16, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

Heeeeeeeeeeeee!…Haw!…Heeeeeeeeeeee!…Haw!………Hee!!…Hee!!…Hee!!…Hee!!…Hee!!…Haaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!………………………..

By James

June 16, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

Well the only good news I see is in 2 days we will be in last place which means it can’t get no worse so the only way to go is up. Three players I was hoping the Braves might go for in the off season was Crawford,Gordon, and Nomar. Oh well,I still like to see them get Crawford and have him locked up through 2010. But, I can’t see JS still to salvage our team to make the playoffs now. So it is a good time around the All-Star break to get rid of a few players and pick up some good players. You know, The ones who play to Win and not play to lose!Forget the History and have fun and play the game as it should be played and not so tight and playing not to lose.Fundamental Baseball! Jordan hang it up! Maybe we can trade Giles,LaRoache,Reitsma,Oscar etc….I will still watch these Brave as I had the last 30 years but looking forward to Football Season…GO FALCONS!!!

By A Nobody

June 16, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this

Andee, my only beef with Cox this year is his calling on Reitsma repeatedly AFTER it was clear to the entire western hemisphere that he couldn’t cut it as closer. All those blown saves I put at Cox’s feet. Same with Rem. If this team had those saves instead of blown saves, we’d be at or near the top of the division right now. Cox is the only one who can take the blame for not making the change until it was way too late.

But I agree with you that some are taking their venting way too far and are making personal statements that are way out of line. The man has won over 2100 ballgames in his lifetime; there are only a small handful of managers who have ever done better.

By Bob, journalist

June 16, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Glass Half Full,

When you’re losing every game … it makes some sense to try putting your best hitting players on the field. Matt might work as the leadoff hitter but I’d rather just keep injecting Marcus with the flubug.

One bit of concern regarding Matt … it seemed strange that the play at 2nd … in the ninth … wasn’t even close.

It’s sad to see the Mark Bowman report indicating that Reitsma said the numbness certainly had an effect on his location and affected him in nearly every appearance this season.

Worse still is that it reports he never informed the Braves of the problem until after Sunday’s game in Houston.

I know I’m old and forgetful … but isn’t that in direct opposition with what Bobby Cox indicated?

By glennbo

June 16, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

bob “journalist”, offering free advice does not mean that you are generous. i think you offer advice a little too easily, in fact. why don’t you start a foundation like brian jordan’s. then you’ll have a captive audience that has to listen to your needy ramblings.

and bob, as far as there being more than 2 universities in atlanta, well, lets just say that i was referencing a comment made by the other “journalist”. as usual, you took it upon yourself to ignore the five minute rule and start another “monotnic” diatribe.

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

These guys aren’t playing hard or hustling.Not to mention,they don’t play sound,fundamental baseball(Bobby’s team’s have never been good at moving runners over via the bunt).Trotting out the same ole lineup every night when guys aren’t performing,and continuing to use Reitsma(when the team had clearly lost confidence in him).Sticking with the status quo in the midst of a 3-15 tailspin is idiocy.There seem to be no repercussions for poor play and lack of effort each and every night,loss after loss.Who else but the HOF mgr is responsible?

By fairyboy

June 16, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

The Braves are paid $92 million dollars ,they suck,my boys and i suck for a lot less.

By Robert

June 16, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

HOF manager.

Is that Hall of Fame? Or Head of Feces?

By MrC

June 16, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

oh look….I just got my MLB post game alert saying the Braves lost. Just another thing to fire me up. Don’t know what it is but seems to me that this was the game that did me in. Might have to take a break from watching. Probably won’t but might try (LOL).

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

Cox should shoulder part of the blame for this anemic offense. He’s the manager and should insist his hitting coach produce more. If TP won’t tell Frenchy quit trying to hit a home run on every swing than BC should pull the kid aside.

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

Pamela better wear a catcher’s mask tonight.It could get ugly.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

oh, glennbo, journalist has more than one trick. it seems you are at a disadvantage - perhaps it is the organic food. do you lack iron? as we continue to match wits journalist is wondering if glennbo is burning a 15-watt bulb in a 60-watt world? now, baseball … mccann said the team is waiting on something to happen - waiting on chipper and andruw to take the team on their backs. both did that once or twice before. somehow, it doesn’t seem likely this year. chipper hits the ball deep but needs ten more feet on every drive? organic food? not likely. he’s a wings man. age? julio is much older and he can still hit ‘em out. conditioning? he does not appear to wheeze on the field. what can it be? if anyone says, toes … you are on the right track - not the warning track like chipper. more on toes tomorrow.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

Pamela the way the team is playing and it looks like they have mailed it in for the year you should expect the BLOG tonight to be churnin.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

No way St. Louis sends us Wainwright…have you seen his numbers? Maybe Giles, LaRoche, and a prospect could fetch us Marquis or Mulder (neither are having great seasons), but that’s still highly unlikely.

By Glass Half Full

June 16, 2006 11:15 PM | Link to this

Still, I’d take Marquis or Mulder any day over HoRam, Sosa (should probably close since he’s good for an inning or two), and Thomson.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this

Andee…..the only thing bobby cox is good for, is keeping the team on an even keel when things are going good, and going bad. But other than that, as you speak of the Mets Omar Mynya (sp) putting together a good team for Randolph. JS has put some pretty darn good teams together for Bobby. (not to mention the team Bobby put together for himself as GM before he came back down to the dugout.)

This goes for all the “bring Leo back” people also:

I have never managed a game of “professional” baseball in my life. I have helped out with Little League, Jr. High & H.S. Ball. (I have a cousin who coaches one of the local HS teams). That being said. I’m quite certain, that I could’ve managed the team from 91-2005 with all of the HOF talent on this roster throughout the years. I probably could’ve even managed to be Maddux, Glavine & Smoltz’ Pitching Coach. Oh wait, Those 3 could pitch with their eyes closed with no coach in sight!

I’m not undermining what a coach or manager can teach young players. They all need to be “guided”. But honestly, If Bobby really does “coach” the young kids, he’s not doing a very good job of it. Here’s the deal, he’s always “coached” by letting people “get out” of their own funk by just playing through it. Bobby and JS severely overrated this roster over the winter and spring. Now they are paying the price, because players on this team are either too old to perform up to standards, too young to get it yet (that’s ok they eventually will - with a new manager and hitting coach, or just not talented enough to be in the “show” yet.

So either way you look at it , Bobby is either a lowsy coach/teacher or bad at evaluating talent. I’m pretty sure he knows talent when he sees it, base on his GM skills. He just falls in love with players and gets way too personal with his decisions. He makes roster moves based on what players did in the past. That’s fine if it’s the recent past. Not 1999 (yes that’s a slam on Brian Jordan)

If you’ve paid attention to my posts for the last 3 months at all, you’ve seen me to be sarcastic, negative and even complain about all of the Post Season failures. I’m not going to lie. It SUCKS……..BUT, I have totally enjoyed watching (for the most part) good, well played baseball for six months out of the year, for the last 15 years.

That’s all I want. Play kids that want to play. Play the “best” players available on the 25 man roster, or call up players that deserve a shot. Heck, last year Francoeur gets called up with nothing more than average numbers at AA to replace Mondesi and Jordan. (which I’m convinced never would’ve happened if jordan wasn’t hurt)

Now we’ve got LaRoche, average player at best, but a favorite of Bobby. Down in Richmond we’ve got Thorman hitting the daylights out of the ball, he’s not 22, he’s done his “time” in the minors. CALL HIM UP FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!

Just put a team out there that wants to play, learn from mistakes, play hard, and actually care. I’m sure the players do care. But if I see a TBS camera pan through the dugout one more time while they are getting their A$$’s kicked and people are laughing and joking. I’m gonna freak out! Maybe we could ask Maddux to walk through our Dugout with his bat! LOL

I’m going to bed……GOOD NIGHT ALL!

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this

HOF stands for hardheaded old f_ _ _ _ _.

By fairyboy

June 16, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

The Braves use to rule,now they suck,maybe they should come hangout with my boys and me and we can show them how to suck better. F* Rule.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 11:24 PM | Link to this

We pay BC 2 million a year to bang his head against the dugout WALL instead of putting the best 9 on the field.

By glennbo

June 16, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

jimmy, those wings are fried in partially hydrogenated oil. its a death trap. chipper has arteriosclerosis. franco doesn’t eat that crap. but cheetos. i bet its got trans fat. you and chipper. trans fat junkies. he can’t hit and you can’t jank.
oh, yeah. mombo would kick your a*.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 16, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

If you want to bust a slump just play the Braves.

By Jay

June 16, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

I was at the game tonight and it was absolutely pathetic. I dont know which was more embarrassing…our play on the field and half the stands being bandwagon red sox fans. Ridiculous.

I wouldnt be surprised at all if we get swept. You think with all the rumors, boos, criticism, and fan support for the OTHER team…that the braves want to come to the ballpark???

Gee, Im so shocked that when we start Brian Jordan and Todd Pratt our offense cant score.

As for the above rumors…Dave Roberts has an awful obp and moves from team to team in the same manner I move from my car to work: all the time. And while the Nathan trade would be great…why the hell would they want Sosa? Thats what makes me doubt that one.

I would compare the Braves run to the Roman Empire…a loud but empty empire, lots of win signifying nothing, where our standards have dropped every year (“lets win the world series” to “lets continue the division streak” to the current “lets get the wild card”), and now every team is going to come in and ransack the place. This is payback for all the years, ney, the 1.4 decades of pain the Braves have inflicted on the league.

Hey, how did the Roman Empire turn out? Yeah. Ladies and Gentlemen, YOUR 2006 Atlanta Braves.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 16, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

jimmy would send regards to dadbo but, then, we don’t know his name, do we? not sure that last one was from glennbo - doesn’t fit his m.o. anyway, kiss mombo goodnight and set the brakes on the trailer. journalist out.

By glennbo

June 16, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this

dadbo is dead.

By nathan

June 16, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I haven’t gone to bed yet and I meant to add this to my last post.

Can we finally axe the commercial on the radio that asks: “Is fifteen-peat a Word?”

Because apparently if it is a word, it aint ever gonna get used in a sentence. Unless that sentence goes somthing like this:

“In 2006, the Atlanta Braves failed miserablely in their attemtpt to fifteen-peat”

That’s all…….GOOD NIGHT!

By James

June 16, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

People who even think about Leo ought to know that the Orioles have the worst pitching staff in the AL except for the Royals. With the recent comments of Remi the other day and the stare tonoght of Hudson to Diaz I would love to be a fly on the wall with a few of the Braves buddies out right now.Its only a matter of time. Of course a true leader of the Braves the last few years in the clubhouse is now a NY Met.

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

After Bobby started Danny Bautista,Eddie Perez,and Tony Graffaneino in game 3 of the NLCS against the Padres’ Sterling Hitchcock when we were already down 2-0 in the series,why should anything he does with the lineup be surprising?

By john tarleton

June 16, 2006 11:47 PM | Link to this

bobby, shake up the line up. go with the hot hands.

1. diaz
2. rentaria
3. mcacnn
4. andruw
5. chipper
6. giles
7. frenchy
8. laroche
9. pitcher

quit living in the past. do what works right now. stop forcing players to fill roles they used to fill… i.e. giles, chipper and such…why is diaz hitting #8 every night.

i welcome all comments.

By DOBjr

June 16, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this

DOB—-You do mean, “Move now to make Wildcard in “07 “DIDN’T YOU?….

By eric noe

June 16, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

cnnsi is reporting that “chris retsma sprained his lavia and will need lavia reduction surgery which will not alow him to play until after the prom.”

By Todd A

June 16, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

Not sure how much blame McDowell really deserves for the woeful pitching this year(not sure even Leo could do anything with these rag arms in the pen).But,I’m betting he will be the scapegoat for this team’s failures.Roger may want to start preparing his resume’.

By PENN

June 17, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this

Does anyone have the thought passing through their minds that the Braves may not win another game?

Since Renteria’s arm doesn’t seem as strong as Betemit’s why not play Wilson at SS and Renteria at 2nd? Seems logical to me anyway. And both bats would be in the lineup.

Thorman ought to be playing at 1B or in LF. Why does Braves management not see these things? I’ve always given them the credit for the Braves’ success but apparently I was wrong.

Has Mazzone cost them that much in pitcher performance? And why have the pitchers’ ability to bunt suddenly gone to hell?

Has Bobby tried a single suicide squeeze this year? Not in the games I’ve seen. Perhaps it’s because he has no bunters he can trust to lay it down. There is no room for error; that’s why it’s called “sucide.”

I’m just going to check the paper from now on. I am really tired of Jordan and Pratt playing when there are far better players on the bench. I can’t handle that any longer.

Good night all.

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this

Glennbo, I gave you my opinion but you’re delusional if you’re expecting advice, free or otherwise. I try very hard to avoid spending time and energy on those for whom I have no respect.

You have to formulate your own value system … but I think that it’ll be your loss if you continue to cast stones.

I’m just pleased that you choose to publically exhibit some of your values … for all to see what you are … and to see those things for which you stand.

It’s not often that someone makes my argument for me … and eliminates the need for one of my “monotnic diatribes”.

As George M said “my mother thanks you, my father thanks you, my sister thanks you, and I thank you” … God Bless!

By matt

June 17, 2006 12:21 AM | Link to this

BLAME COX FOR THE BAD PLAYING OF LATE.

i know cox has a great reputation because he always stays calm, but he really needs to change something. one of my biggest problems with him is the makeshift lineups; how are the braves supposed to get into a groove when there are essentially three platoons on the team? you’ve got diaz-langerhans (i know langerhans is hurt, that’s why diaz has been in so much recently), laroche-jordan (i don’t know why the braves haven’t called up thorman yet), and pratt-mccann (i don’t care if mccann is left-handed, you’ve got to have that bat in the line-up because the opposing pitchers look at pratt as an out, reducing the braves’ lineup to 7 with a huge hole at the bottom). schuerholz has got to do something, and now, otherwise it’ll look like he and cox are content to be playing the way they have.

one other thing, what’s it going to take to light a fire under their asses? i was at the game tonight and hardly saw ANY frustration from the braves. instead, they looked like they knew they were beat after that one run in the second. it seems like there’s no fight in them whatsoever. last year there were the rookies to get the team excited, and i’m seriously thinking that this year it’s going to take a significant trade to shake things up. i say get rid of giles, i’ve been saying that since before last year; go after joe nathan from the twins, i think a trade for him makes the most sense. but i swear, if cox keeps running out the b-level lineup and doesn’t do something, this poor playing is going to keep on going. it’s time for cox to hit the panic button, the one that he hasn’t looked at over the past 15 seasons.

By glennbo

June 17, 2006 12:25 AM | Link to this

Penn, i see the Braves losing 90+.

By Robert

June 17, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this

As the Red Sox exchange handshakes and high fives on the field and the Braves gather their equipment and head for the clubhouse, Terry Pendleton ties a carrot to a stick, and slowly entices Bobby Cox to his feet and then down the tunnel to the barn

Back in the paddock, his mane and tail will be groomed, after which he will be led over to the show ring for the mandatory press conference. The auctioneer will allow each reporter to ask Bobby one question, and to examine his teeth and hooves

There’s a few idle minutes to kill before it’s Bobby’s turn to field questions at the press conference. Terry Pendleton tries to keep his charge occupied, but when an old friend from the press core walks over to shake hands, Terry is distracted, and the trouble begins. First Bobby walks over and starts to chew Tim Hudson’s glove, which the pitcher had laid down on the press table. Finding the glove inedible, Cox sidles a few steps closer to Hudson and with one deft motion pulls the cap off the pitchers head and starts chewing contentedly. An irate Hudson turns and interrupts his question answer session to try and pull the cap from the manager’s mouth. But Cox starts Hee-hawing, and Hudson soon decides a drool soaked ballcap isnt worth getting the manager in a tizzy. As Hudson sits back down to finish his session with the press, Bobby has turned around to face the other way. Several members of the press standing in the front row run for cover when they see his tail rise up into the air, and the rest soon bust out in laughter as Bobby gives Tim Hudson a post game shower he didnt bargain for. Terry Pendleton looks up from his conversation to see the developing chaos, and rushes over to prevent things from getting more out of hand. A few well placed sugar cubes get Bobby turned around to face the camera, and in the minutes to come he behaves impeccably, answering their questions with a series of thoughtful and emotional “Hee-haws”. The reporters lean in and jostle for position, hanging on Bobby’s every “Hee-haw” even as they try to avoid the mess that the Braves batboy with the pooper scooper in his hands is scurrying to clean up.

When the press conference/auction winds down, Cox new onwer will take the carrot-on-a-stick from Pendleton and lead Bobby over to his private stable. Inside, he will be able to lie down on a thick bed of new straw and enjoy some fresh apple slices and sugar cubes as he contemplates strategy for tomorrow’s game before drifting off into donkey dreamland.

Were the Braves in first place, the strategy session would probably have been put on hold and an attractive lady burro from a nearby farm brought in to keep Bobby warm and cozy at night, but alas, such worldly pleasures dont await for the leader of a fourth place team, even if he is the reigning Four Legged Manager of the Year

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this

john tarleton, I appreciate the thought but why is Giles playing?

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 12:50 AM | Link to this

Several of my recent posts reflect my frustration, disapointment and disagreement with the current way the Braves are being coached/managed.

Disagreement is nothing new … I’ve been doing that since before the Braves arrived in Atlanta, including most of the last 16 years. In my own mind’s eve, we would have had close to a perfect record … if they would have only listened.

The truth is that, though we’ve often disagreed, Bobby Cox and the Braves’ Organization have done a remarkable job over the last 16 years. Could they have done better? Possibly, but I doubt many Organizations would want to measured against the standard they’ve set … it ain’t exactly “par for the course”.

Disapointment … sure, each an every time we lost a game that I thought we should have won … and a few of those we could’ve when we should not. Certainly, we’ve had more than our share of postseason heartbreak but I honestly have trouble understanding the logic of those who use that as an indictment against Bobby, the Organization, and/or the players. Like Miss Minnie said … better to be there than not.

The frustration comes, not from our losing … but because it seems that nothing is being done to address the problems besetting the team. That isn’t meant to suggest that nothing is being done … it just doesn’t seem like it … and it’s not meant to suggest that “trades” are the answer … though “trades” have been touted as the solution by some and the lack of “trades” as the underlying cause of the collapse by others.

The fact that James is still “stretching” but Cormier is “ready to go at least 5” … may be telling us something.

By glennbo

June 17, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

bob, “journalist”, some people think they are generous because they freely offer their opinions. sorry about the confusion.

Also, you should look at what you have written. Its telling as, well. you offered advice. plain and simple. and then tell me you despise me and that i am delusional for inferring that you gave advice. you can split hairs all you want about the words “opinion” and “advice”, but you must admit that you put in your two cents worth without being asked.

I guess you can’t help it.

By Todd A

June 17, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this

If this slide to oblivion continues…and at this rate,it’s hard to imagine it won’t,why would we want most of these veteran players back next year?If they can’t step up and lead in a time of crisis like this,why should we expect them to react differently this time next year when we experience some rough spots?Looks to me like this team’s raised the white flag and given up.Firesale should commence immediately.

By JournalistFraudUnit

June 17, 2006 01:10 AM | Link to this

Bob—journalist—which newspaper or magazine are you employed by?……are you a correspondent?……columnist?……broadcast journalist?…..author?……diarist?……or just another old long-winded bastard that likes to hear himself talk because nobody else does??…….Go away!…….you remind me of a donkey farting!!…….plain enough for you ???……….

By ernesto

June 17, 2006 01:13 AM | Link to this

it’s going to turn around.

By DonkeyUnit

June 17, 2006 01:24 AM | Link to this

“Donkey Baseball” down at the Ted!!….Hee!…Hee!…Haww!!…Haw!!…Haw!!..Haw!!…Hawwwwwwww!!!…Heeeeeeeeeeeee!!!…HaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwHawHawhAWhAWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!………………

By hoho

June 17, 2006 01:48 AM | Link to this

Some of y’all need to call the fraud unit on yourselves. go ahead and vent a little, but geez! get over yourselves, it’s a blog, it’s baseball. we all dig it, you don’t have to come with such vitriol (dang glennbo you’re harsh for sure tonight).

i do think the braves will still make a run. may not be enough, but the mets might fall back to the pack. there may still be a chance at something. i think this team (or some variation) will get hot and we will see some good ball played.

By Donkey

June 17, 2006 01:51 AM | Link to this

The Billionaire Jones boys should be stepping up and showing a little veteran leadership to these rookies and turn this losing ship around!—-Pathetic!—-and where is all that “veteran presence” that Brian Jordan and Todd Pratt were supposed to be exuding all over the dugout and clubhouse?—-Pathetic!—-and the “Aces” such as Smoltz and Hudson should be pitching like “aces”—-not “asses”!—-Pathetic!—-this $92 million dollar team just got swept by a $15 million dollar team!—-Pathetic!—-…….JOHN SCHUERHOLZ PLEASE UNLOAD THIS BUNCH OF LAZY UNDERACHIEVERS AND BEGIN BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE,,,AND PLEASE CONSIDER PUTTING MR. COX OUT TO PASTURE TOO!!!…unload the whole damned bunch!!!……..

By glennbo

June 17, 2006 01:55 AM | Link to this

bob, remember the “Office Space” monologue about the guy having 10 bosses someone posted that prompted you to fly in with a plethora of wisdom. You sure seemed pretty eager to demonstrate your sageness. never mind that you were clueless about an iconic film for generation y, you just jumped at the chance to wax poetic. i’m glad you despise me. you’re a p!ss ant.

By micah

June 17, 2006 02:04 AM | Link to this

You know what’s really galling? Looking at this Red Sox team coming in, reading the articles about their philosophy, realizing that they’re trying to imitate the Atlanta Braves of the last 15 years in terms of having a mix of continuously influxing youth and veterans plus a strong farm system to supply talent from within and help the big club stay competitive all the time while being fiscally responsible, and then realizing that they’re doing a better job of copying us than we are. The Lester/Papelbon combo was especially depressing for precisely this reason. Kudos to Theo Epstein & Co. for actually making moves. cough

I don’t think this is going to turn around, and I’m not exactly sure that’s a bad thing. This team has had holes for years now, just few enough to eke into the playoffs thanks to the other teams in our division being incompetent. Well, no more. If this gets some of the fundamental problems that have been growing for years now, like utter lack of any sort of dependable bullpen and increasingly lousy defense, fixed, then it will be worth it, IMO.

By glennbo

June 17, 2006 02:07 AM | Link to this

Donkey, I don’t think anybody would take the Joneses. Those two would be a naked salary dump. Who would want to assume the salaries of inconsistant prima donnas, let alone give us somebody. Don’t get me wrong, I’d like to dump’em, but it would be impossible. Hudson and Smoltz might fetch some prospects, though. We’re still stuck with Hampton anyway. He Makes more than the Marlins, too.

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 02:26 AM | Link to this

I don’t know how feasible the suggestion that Wilson play “Short” and Edgar play “Second” really is … but, I’ll second the nomination.

Doggoned if it’s not amazing … for many years I’ve heard that it’s okay for a player to strikeout a lot … and have a low batting average … so long as they thrill the fans with long home runs and have many RBI.

In 2000, Andruw’s career best strikeout year at 15.2% … his batting average was a career best .303 … he hit 36 homeruns, scored a career high 122 runs, and had 104 RBI. Perhaps not striking out isn’t such a bad idea, even for Andruw

Hammering Hank’s strikeout average was 11.2% … had several years under 10% and his worst year was only 15.4%.

Maybe those people saying it’s okay for a player to strikeout a lot are the agents, fans and relatives of those who do.

On a different note … another thing that seems to be missing this year is the advantage that the Braves have generally had in “defensive alignment” changes.

By Chop Chop

June 17, 2006 03:33 AM | Link to this

“By nathan

June 16, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

Didn’t we “Pass” on Rudy Seanez this offseason.”

That was my favorite part of any post on this blog so far.

Nathan, Red Sox Nation despises Rudy Seanez. He pitched in Boston before and was terrible. His ERA isn’t terrible this year, but he constantly allows inherited runners to score.

In order to bolster my point, here’s an excerpt from The Boston Sports Blog (by Eric Wilbur) on Boston.com:

I listened to Peter Gammons on WEEI on the drive home yesterday afternoon, saying the White Sox were actually interested in acquiring Rudy Seanez in exchange for Javier Lopez. But the Red Sox were hesitant to do so with the hopes Seanez may still turn it around this season once he finds his fastball. This would naturally explain the screeching of brakes and five-car pileup at the intersection of 24 and 93 in case you drove by in wonderment.

Not to say that David Riske was an integral piece here, but I fear this means more work for Seanez, Tavarez, and Timlin in the long run in that Lopez isn’t going to be going more than one batter all that often. Sure, that’s one more batter than Riske was getting used to, but that’s beside the point. If Seanez were given a ticket out of town, I would have rushed to the nearest pub because someone would surely have been buying drinks in celebratory fashion.

By Chop Chop

June 17, 2006 03:38 AM | Link to this

Oh…and this, when talking about the Red Sox’ inability to piece together a good bullpen this season:

And … oh, that’s it. Two guys in the ‘pen (Mike Timlin and Jonathan Papelbon) have done amazing jobs. We should start marketing t-shirts that say, “I spent $130 million and all I got was Rudy Seanez.”

By bobby c

June 17, 2006 03:41 AM | Link to this

Cox says: ” Hudsy made one bad pitch, and Varitek hit it.” What about the 12 pitches he made to load the bases? Were they good? At least we have Brian Jordan on the squad…

By Paul Herrmann

June 17, 2006 05:44 AM | Link to this

Here is my lineup card: Betemitt-1B-crash course in playing this spot. Giles-2B-best hitting at this spot Renteria-ss C.Jones-3rd A.Jones-CF McCann-C Franceour-RF Diaz-LF as for pitchers: Reihtsma , Remlinger,Sosa to the minors and bring up the best AAA has to offer. Paronto,McBride and Ray have done their part. I would trade for a good starter with Langerhans,LaRoche and a top minor league prospect. Send Pratt to the minors and bring back Pena (C) as the backup to McCann. I don’t understand Cox’s decisions this year and why these changes have not been made, still?

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 06:20 AM | Link to this

glennbo,

I do remember Tennessee Paul’s post that prompted my reply. I didn’t think much about it since what I said was what I felt. Based on what he later said, I assume that the movie is worth seeing and won’t fail to so do; should the opportunity arise.

I thought he indicated 5 bosses … but that sad scenario is quite common, regardless of number, and is certainly not unique to any generation. It wasn’t my eagerness to demonstrate anything … but rather an expression of empathy relative to a situation with which I’m somewhat familiar … for I sincerely thought Paul was struggling with that situation. It wasn’t the first and won’t be the last time that I haven’t been on the same page the blogger to whom I’m responding … I’m just glad he wasn’t facing that situation.

It’s easy to make a fool of me. I like to think that those who do are in good company … I do it all the time.

Regarding my own insignificance … I’m sure that’s something upon which we can both agree … having first realized the possibility many years ago and now being reminded of the extent to which it is true, each and every day.

I also plead guilty to not being very knowledgable about films, regardless of the generation. I’ve enjoyed hundreds, including many current ones … but don’t care for nominal enterainment efforts that include vulgar language or explicit sex … and do prefer those with well conceived plots and good acting, a rather rare combination … regardless of era.

I can’t imagine anyone truly being glad that someone despises them. That’s somewhat interesting and worthy of more consideration, but it’s a mistake to reach the conclusion that I despise you … perhaps I would if I knew you, but I don’t.

However, it’s certainly true that I think it boorish to vilify and/or defame others in public forum without proper foundation, regardless of provocation or private agenda … hopefully, that attitude is shared by most … regardless of generation.

Furthermore, I don’t respect those who initiate such action or derive enjoyment from so doing. I conclude from your posts that you fall into this category … if I’m wrong, I sincerely apologize, if that is you then so be it.

By Head Coach

June 17, 2006 07:44 AM | Link to this

Wild card ? and pigs can fly. Dave O’Brien , nice try at being positive , but pigs cant fly and Bobby cant manage his sock drawer much less this Debacle of a team. A fire sale is more realistic than your suggestions are.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

June 17, 2006 08:20 AM | Link to this

This team lacks fire and that is its biggest problems. The bullpen problems and the lack of motivation (which should come from the magager) has caused this team to be down. I truly believe Chipper’s problem is that he feels betrayed and lied to. And you know what? He should. Everyone talks of how selfish he is but voluntarily restructured his contract to free up money so the Braves could either sign Furcal or go after some quality relievers. They did neither. Furcal would have stayed here for 10 mil. Maybe that was too much but tell me this team couldn’t use him right now. Chipper has to be wondering what is going on? Where did his money go?

Tell me how many other superstars would have done that? The Yankees need pitching in the worst way. But, I don’t see Jeter, A-Rod, Damon, Sheffield, Matsui, Giambi, or the Big Unit rushing to restructure their deals to free up some much needed money. I find it interesting the only Met to do so was that “selfishe bas*d” Glavine. Sure could use him right now too. Just a couple of extra million. This belief of playing with cheap players is stupid. Francouer will be a great player but he was not ready for full time action. Unfortunately, due to the mishandling of the roster he is forced to play everyday. He is a strong enough kid that he will be fine. He is having a sophomore slump. But, lately this orginization has not made wise decisions and have mishandled their minor league talent and now its showing.

Despite all that this team is a good playoff caliber team that isn’t playing that well. Maybe its time for Bobby to go and dare I say Sweet Lou to stroll in. Cox has lost the touch and is to stubborn to manage any longer.

By Andy A

June 17, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

The Braves need to make some inside moves before going outside for help. Release Jordan, Remlinger, Reitsma, and Pratt. Bring up Pena, Thorman and Startup.

If they Braves are seriously looking to deal Giles, I say we turn around and deal for Craig Counsell of Arizona to play 2b for us. He is always on winning teams isn’t he? He is Clutch and a good defender. Giles should bring back some relief help.

The biggest move we need to make is to trade Chipper. I am not sure if he would accept to the Angels, but they are looking for a bat and we sure could use Shields.

I doubt we will be able to get Willis or Crawford, but both would be great in a Braves uniform.

By GM R

June 17, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this

DOB - why are you even discussing this when there will be no big trades until this team is sold? The writing was on the wall when JS failed to bring in another quality starter to replace Hampton, even if only for a year. The suits at TW didn’t even want to spend the insurance money they got for Hampton. Why would they spend money now when the team appears to be on the verge of being sold? Of course JS is going to say he is in contact with other GMs - what do we expect him to say? - “Sorry Braves fans but we are stuck with what we have for now” - I don’t think so. He has been taking one for his TW bosses over the last 2 years, making Braves fans think he is in serious contract negotiations when it is clear that the players concerned would be crazy to accept offers well below those from other teams - let’s face it, it has been a shell game and the fans have been the victims. It’s how we ended up with Jordan and Mondesi in the outfield at the start of last year, and why BC is forced to persist with Thompson and Sosa this year. And the biggest joke of all - Cormier preparing to become our next starter - give me a break. I really, really hope I am wrong, but the only big trades I see on the horizon will be through the Exit door as the chances of a playoff spot evaporate.

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 08:47 AM | Link to this

Fire sale? The only people we could dump for payroll purposes that other teams would want are Hudson (which would be foolish), Andruw, and Renteria (a bargain since Boston is paying a chunk of his salary).

By Dave

June 17, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

C’mon let’s have some fun with this. Can anyone make bumper stickers that state “From First to Worst”. The reverse sure was fun in 1991.

By robdawg06

June 17, 2006 09:16 AM | Link to this

I’m just wondering if the Braves can win another game in June ? They lose every game. Unbelievable.

By Blaster

June 17, 2006 09:35 AM | Link to this

Don’t blame Hudson for not running to first, that’s the way Bobby WANTS it! How many times have you heard him say on the broadcasts “slow down!” when a pitcher is running to first?

By eric the elder

June 17, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

Some retrospective might balance things out a little. Think about what JS thought the team would be, and what it has turned out to be. Blaine Boyer, out for the year. Kelly Johnson, out for the year. Joey Devine, out for the year. Mike Hampton, out for the year. John Foster, out for the year. Chipper hurt, perhaps more than is let on. McCann hurt,the beginning of the dive.

And think of those who were not disabled: Jordan (until now), Pratt, Reitsma (until the bogus “numbness”), and others who have not contributed. They are the ones BC has to keep parading out there every day.

The Braves are floating face down in the water, with no help in sight, and it all happened very suddenly. Demanding that JS do something, anything, now, is like expecting the captain of the Titanic to cut some requisitions for more life boats. The predators are circling our camp site, and the campfire is going out.

I think JS can only draw a line through 2006 and think solely in terms of the future. He and Bobby will be gone soon, and they have a legacy to protect. LaRoche, Giles - - people

By eric the elder

June 17, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this

A little meaningless straggle there at the end. Sorry.

By A Nobody

June 17, 2006 10:12 AM | Link to this

Eric, you’re right. Throw in the dismal WBC which fragmented spring training, the abomniable (sp?) opening schedule, the weather conditions in those first games, the onset of devastating injuries - and I can see why this group never jelled into a TEAM.

The only part I don’t understand is why in heaven’s name has Cox continued to repeatedly use the same proven failures for so long when we all know there are alternatives waiting to be brought in. His nightly use of Reitsma will forever be a mystery to me. I’ll repeat myself again: if we just had those blown saves back, we’d be in a pretty good position right now. Cox made those decisions and he has to take the blame. Now he has a confused, unfocused gaggle of individuals who in no way perform as a trained unit. Maybe Chipper has tried to influence the kids and has been either undercut or ignored. It’s plain to me that he is beyond disgusted. Just A Nodbody’s thoughts.

By A Nobody

June 17, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

Now isn’t that bad? Can’t even sign my own name! LOL A Nobody

By TheSouthernJackRabbit

June 17, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

I think this team has followed Chipper’s leadership and influence perfectly!—-that’s why they are all mediocre, lifeless, and lazy!!!…GO TIGERS!!!…

By Hoodwinked&Bamboozled

June 17, 2006 11:28 AM | Link to this

Everyone pretty much knew that AOL/TW were nothing but a bunch of New York City cutthroats, but John Schuerholz has been their mouthpiece and tool of destruction! John Schuerholz is a damn liar! John Schuerholz has been telling the fans how he’s been trying to make deals and trades while knowing full well that TW isn’t going to spend more money while the team is up for sale! You’re nothing but a self-serving liar Schuerholz, genius maybe, but liar for certain!…….I hope the only thing that you and Bobby Cox are remembered for in Atlanta is how you helped destroy the Braves in the interest of corporate greed!!……You could have been a stand up guy and just told the fans the truth!!…..One more thing, I’m so damned glad that Bobby Cox is being exposed for the manager that he’s not!!…..Hoodwinked & Bamboozled—-just a suggestion for your next book!!!……

By eric the elder

June 17, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

When my cousin was 10 years old, she was playing with some neighbors in the yard when a little spat occurred. My cousin ran up on the porch, stomped her foot, and said, “You are a liar.” My aunt promptly brought her inside and explained that “liar” was not a word to be used in that family. A few days later, there was a similar dust up. My cousin ran up on the porch, stomped her foot and said, “You are … mistaken.”

Has JS been lying to us or was he just mistaken? We’ll probably never know. Recall that not one of our starters got a win in the first 10 games. Couldn’t last could it? I think most felt that the rough start was explainable, along the lines that A Nobody mentioned. Surely this would all turn around. A nice spurt against the Marlins and Cubs reinforced that hope. The collapse was so precipitous that I think everyone, including JS, was caught off guard. The window of opportunity slammed shut. If JS wasn’t lying to us, then it was at least a colossal error in judgment, both by him and by Bobby.

The worst thing we could do now is trade away our kids with some unrealistic hope that the season can be salvaged. The rest of the teams are salivating over that prospect. Sometimes we just need to throw in a bad hand and wait for the next deal.

By old timer

June 17, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

nathan, I said in the offseason that Garciaparra would be a good risk at a reasonable price. Most people disagreed. What he got from LA seemed too much for a guy who had essentially missed the previous two seasons with injuries. I don’t recall what you posted in the offseason, but from reading the recent stuff, I think you need a friendly trashing now and then.

By Barbara

June 17, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

I really wish the Braves would get Adam Wainwright back. He graduated from Glynn Academy with my daughter and has always been an outstanding athlete—and person. Why in the world did they ever trade him for Drew?

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

Just an unqualified opinion … but,

We are constantly reminded how noble it is that certain players have volunteered to have their contracts restructured so as to help their organizations.

In truth, contracts are restructured everyday, every year … it’s about as rare as the common cold. The fact that such transactions are made public suggests that private agendas may be at work because, on their own, they are seldom newsworthy.

One might even conjecture that Liberty Media and TimeWarner are restructuring their “contract” as we prepare to watch today’s game on FOX and/or listen to it on WGST.

If a player were to agree to restructuring for the purpose of facilitating certain activities or events, it would be the responsibility of the player’s legal and financial advisors to assure that his objectives and best interests were reflected and protected in the contract.

In the Braves’ case, Chipper Jones is the one most frequently lauded for having his contract restructured. It would be unusual for contract restructuring to warrant any significant favorable publicity being bestowed upon either party … unless of course, that was part of the agreed upon consideration.

On the lighter side, I can understand Chipper’s feeling that the other night wasn’t a good time for players to be casting stones … I would have felt the same way … like maybe I would have perferred they wait until someone else was the focus of attention.

By old timer

June 17, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

I agree Eric. We’re at the pointwhere we’re finally going to find out if it’s better, as some have said, not to win the division than to be elininated in the playoffs or lose the World Series. So far, it doesn’t feel better. And soon it will be time to think about something that hasn’t entered our minds in years: do we want to finish third rather than fourth, fourth rather than fifth, fifth rather than last? Once the goal entering many seasons was just to get out of the cellar. Somehow, I don’t think anyone is going to care this year where the team finishes if it isn’t first or a wild-card second, and it won’t be either.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 17, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith finds wisdom in the post from eric the elder. journalist does not favor a quick fix to “maybe” win a wild card. what will this rag-tag bunch do with a wild card? out in 4 or 5 - and our young talent will be gone for another rent-a-player akin to j.d. drew. no, let’s play it out with the best athletes. release pratt, jordan, reitsma, and remlinger. bring some more kids in to play. pena was sent to the minors hitting over .320 while pratt remains hitting .203. prado was sent down the day after he won a game with a late inning triple. we kept pete orr hitting .203. the first base platoon is a joke. jordan is hitting .214. when bobby plays him first base in almost unattended. jurries lit up the spring - thorman is lighting up aaa right now. why are they down and jordan here? remlinger is mis-cast as a specialist. he was let go by the pitching poor cubs. how did he end up in atlanta? after today’s game there will be 5 braves with more than 50 strikeouts. no leadoff batter - inept defense. journalist bob said something worth noting about defensive alignment. at one time bobby could improve his defense in the late innings - he can’t anymore unless he puts betemit at 3b or ss. orr’s no improvement, pratt is no improvement, jordan is going to get hurt out there (wait, that was last night, right?). the team is a mess but the biggest mess is in the dugout with the guy holding the sharpie who keeps sending these duds out there to do the same thing night after night. journalist now feels better. somebody wake up journalist bob for the game. afternoon game today, bob.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 17, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

The best way to effect change is not to attend the games. Hit ‘em in the pocketbook. All this writing, venting, moaning won’t do a bit of good if we continue to attend games, watch them on TV, etc… doesn’t mean you’re not a fan. In fact, I think it’s quite the opposite; if we weren’t passionate about our team and weren’t so concerned, we would continue to sail merrily along like nothing is happening.

By journalist with typo

June 17, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

out in 5 or 6

By journalist jimmy smith

June 17, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

frustrated journalist will look at the keyboard this time: out in 3 or 4

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

June 17, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

I posted yesterday tht if this team has no ral intentions of trying to win this year and money is that BIG of an issue than be truthful with the fans and start unloading some salary to get in some good young players and some quality prospects.

I believe that since Andruw has Yankees written all over him after next year why not trade him there now and get some value. We can trade him for Melkey Cabrera and either Andy Phillips or Robinson Canoe. We can package Giles in the deal The Yankees would make that offer. They need an outfielder and Andruw fits that bill.

Then we give the Rays a call and offer Pena or Salty along with Thomson, LaRoche and maybe Lerew (sp?) for Crawford or Gaithright. Gaithright would be the more realistic option.

Next we call up the Cubs and offer Langerhans and either Salty or Pena and mayber LaRoche for some pitching help.

Chipper stays and has earned the right to.

If Smoltz doesn’t want to stay then we give the Tigers a call and ask for some prospects and maybe Craig Monroe.

I also say Renteria should be available as well. He could be attractive to the Rays, Cubs, or even the Diamondbacks.

We could also give the Orioles a call and see what they want for Millar.

Realistically we would have a shot a Gaithright and Monroe.

Our lineup could include an infield of Thorman at 1st, mabye Todd Walker at 2nd (offer Renteria to the Cubs for pitching and Walker), Betemit at SS, and Chipper at 3rd with of course McCann as catcher.

The outfield could include Monroe in LF, Gaithright in CF, and Francouer in RF with Diaz as the 4th outfielder.

Gaithright solves the leadoff problem and maybe Monroe and Thorman provide some cushion around Chipper and even help Francoeur.

I believe that is quite realistic. Then Jordan, Pratt, and Orr are showed the door. “Thanks for your services but you got to go.”

So how does that sound folks?

By Steve

June 17, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

The player we really need is Carlos Lee if he’s available. Would really help the middle of the order and give us some much needed offense in left field. Anybody missing Dan Kolb yet?

By David O'Brien

June 17, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this

Chipper is out of lineup today, sick. Betemit’s at third base.

Anyone who thinks I’m trying to put a positive spin on things or paint a rosy picture is just clueless. Seriously. Why would I try to put a positive spin on things? I have no vested interest in how the team performs, and couldn’t care less what the attendance is or how they’re viewed. I’m simply here to write about what’s happening with them, to inform and hopefully help you all understand why certain decisions or moves are made. Really, I don’t care about any positive spins or anything else.

GM R (I think that’s name you used), if you think they’re not talking to teams about trades, fine. But they are, whether you believe it or not. And I was told this morning the Braves are among the teams trying hard to get Carlos Lee, but Brewers don’t want to move him because they still think they’ve got a shot at postseason with St. Louis faltering, etc. Braves scouted entire Milwaukee-St. Louis series last week, had the big scout, Jim Fregosi, there all three days.

One other thing: Bob, since contracts are restructured “everyday, every year,” just curious: What other multi-year contracts of high-salaried players have been restructured in baseball in, say, the past two years. Just curious, since you state so many are done. Just baseball, we’re talking here. Because frankly, no one in this space much cares about the executive at the Auto Parts company or fast-food chain having his contract restructured. Hopefully that’s not what you were talking about, since it’s irrelevent to this discourse.

Just baseball, gimme a few contracts that have been restructured in past, oh, we’ll give you a window of several years. Come up with two or three, other than Chipper’s and Smoltz’s (which he did when he moved back to starting, in order to eliminate the huge obstacle of the $100,000 per-start clause in his original deal and make it affordable for Braves to let him do what he wanted again, which was to start rather than close.

I honestly can’t think of many others, so I’m curious to hear a few.

By David O'Brien

June 17, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

Sorry, meant to say the Cincinnati-Milwaukee series last week, not St. Louis-Milwaukee series.

By Patrick

June 17, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Do the Braves have any chance of talking Milwuakee in giving up Lee or have the Braves given up trying to get him?

By Blake

June 17, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

I guess it is time to pull against the Brewers. Lee would be nice

By journalist jimmy smith

June 17, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

reading the latest dob post reminded journalist jimmy smith to look up this quote from js:

“whatever it takes, chipper is always willing to step up, and we are pleased that this latest unselfish act will likely ensure that he will play his entire career as a brave.”

too bad he is sick today for a nationally televised game. now, who will bat third???

jimmy smith would bat renteria third - and keep him there. how about you?

psst… bob … (whisper) glavine and baby seal come to mind right away.

chipper found a way to get another $15 million while being praised for being a team player. journalist does not begrudge him that. tax perks should be useful, too.

By Blake

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

Well good start for the Bravos, hey at least we are looking at trades

By David

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

I don’t think I can watch anymore of this kind of baseball. I think basketball, hockey, and soccer will be a good substitute for now. David, can you email me when this is over. I think im going to cry.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 17, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! 1-0 already and the red sox fans are ruling the stadium. man on second base - nobody out. let’s see how the red sox are coached to play this. will he die on second base? or will the run score?

By Metropolitan Man

June 17, 2006 01:32 PM | Link to this

Excellent post losers. Glad to seel all you guys scrambling to find a reason for the season. Bottom line is you suck and now everyone knows it. You accomplished a lot and it went undetected, now you are losing a lot and the world is paying attention. Have you and the Stankee fans started donning your METS gear. If not leave me your email adress and I will make sure you get some SOLDOUT playoff tickets and an actual trip to the world sereis…..all in 1 year. If you want a sweep, come to atalnta or invite them to your house. Either way the opponent will win the series against the braveless!!!

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

June 17, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, exactly who are the Braves players that are up for trade. We keep hearing Giles’ name only but who else is up for trade. And, can you tell me why on earth Cox thinks that Jordan and Pratt and Orr can do more for this team than Thorman, Pena, and Jurries. I just don’t get that. Please, please, please explain it to me!

By Blake

June 17, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

Met Man,

I want some tickets. Just leave them outside your mom’s room. I will get them in the morning on my way out.

By David

June 17, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

gooooallll ghana…USA has a chance to make it to round of 16 now!

By Blake

June 17, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

Robert,

I know Langerhans’ name is being shopped

By Chop Chop

June 17, 2006 01:57 PM | Link to this

Mushmouth Piniella needs to sound off like he has a pair. He’s been mumbling most of the game.

Just as I type this, he speaks up.

Good job, guys in the truck.

By eric the elder

June 17, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man, spend some quality time with Mr. Met and learn how classy a Mets fan can be.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

McDowell is going to set a record for trips to the mound in a season.

Brian Jordan? BRIAN FREAKING JORDAN??? I love the guy (actually had the chance to meet him a couple times…very cool dude) as a human being, but he brings ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to this team on the field. Yes, he may be a veteran who can provide leadership in the clubhouse, but this is baseball, not football. The Braves have a 25-man roster and none of those spots should be reserved for Jordan.

Pete Orr is a joke. He can run and that’s about it. Hopefully he starts running one day and just never stops; keeps on running into the sunset.

I’m sure Pratt is a great teacher for McCann, but he doesn’t deserve any playing time. If we’re going to use a 2nd catcher every 4 or 5 days, it needs to be Pena.

Lance Cormier starting a game. Ken Ray closing (or not) games. Thomson headed to DL. This season really blows.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man,

What Mets board do you post on? I’d like to know so I can come in there and talk some trash about the last 15 years. Are you really a Mets fan or one of those many bandwagon-jumping fans in Atlanta who like the Braves when they win and bash them when they lose?

You’re a disgrace. You’re a loser. You’re a jerk, and I’m pretty sure you have really horrible BO. You’re a fool. You’re insulting and condescending without having any reason to be.

And you’re a Mets fan. I don’t care how many games the Braves lose, I’m infinitely happy that I will never be associated with that sorry, classless joke of a franchise. You’re about to BUY your 1st division-champ team in over a decade and a half. Congratulations. And you’re even second fiddle in your own city.

By Metropolitan Man

June 17, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

Wow Chris, you sound like an early loser. All that frustration on 1 bad season. I’ve been a METS fan since 1984. I’ve seen some of the best and worst seasons. But you attacking me is cool. You cant attack the braves which is the true reason for your contempt. You need “serenity now” but wont seek it. Just sit back, watch money WASTED instead of well spent, and try to find a better way to let your anger out. As a matter of fact leave me your adDress so I can send you a METS gift package. That way youR sports closet wont be so empty now that you have thrown out your braveless sh**!!! KEEP GOING METS!!!!

By student

June 17, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

Well sure, I don’t think we should mortgage the future either, which is why Crawford would make some sense. I wouldn’t want to give up a lot to get a guy who is gone at the end of the year, but as DOB pointed out we would keep Crawford for at least two more years after this one, so even if this season doesn’t turn around, we start next year with a real lead off hitter.

Its great to bring prospects up through the farm system and the Braves do a pretty good job of it, but there isn’t always a space for everyone on the team. We have a real surplus of middle infielders in the farm system. You don’t want to trade all of these guys away but we don’t need them all either so why not see if we could use them to fill some other needs. Its the same thing with Salty. We don’t need a catcher, ours is batting .350. So the question is do they think he could convert to 1st base or the outfield? If they don’t see that working then they should look to shop him. He’s our top rated prospect so its not like we should accept just any old offer for him, if you trade him you should be getting a real player for him, but I don’t think trading him is unthinkable.

By David O'Brien

June 17, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

You don’t hear “exactly which Braves are up for trade” because it’s kept secret like the CIA (well, considering how CIA secrets are kept these days, better amend that. The CIA can only dream of having as tight a ship as the Schuerholz regime, which is as close to airtight as you’ll find. The good thing is, John and his men don’t play favorites; neither beat guys nor national guys get leaks from them. You have to work sources from the other sides usually. All I know is Giles and Sosa are definitely on table, if they could get something they want back for them. And they’ve tried to trade Thomson twice now, right before his injuries this spring and the current blister).

That’s it. All I know. Gotta get back to this exhilarating game at Fenway South.

By Amber

June 17, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

I’ve got it - Reitsma was a Mets plant. How else to explain this???

*Thus, he never informed the Braves of the problem until after Sunday’s game in Houston. While retiring just two of the 10 batters he faced during that game, he allowed five earned runs and seven hits.

Reitsma said the numbness certainly had an effect on his location and affected him in nearly every appearance this season.

“I felt it more than I didn’t feel it,” Reitmsa said. *

WTeverlivin’F???? He just kept trotting out there, losing games, demoralizing the team, and knowing that he wasn’t in good enough physical condition to pitch?!?!?!

By Chris

June 17, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

Reitsma is either 1) a liar trying to cover up the fact that he just sucks or 2) a total jerk for going out there and trying to pitch knowing he wasn’t in condition to do so. Either way, I hope I never see him again and the Braves retire #37 so that no future Brave will ever catch Reitsma’s cooties.

Metropoiltan Man, the only thing I’m “frustrated” with is a non-Braves fan coming here just to talk a bunch of trash. See, people like discussing things going on with THEIR team. It’s annoying, uncalled for and plain infantile to go to another team’s site just to stir things up. But that’s what New Yorkers do, right? Act like total a*******e$ for no apparent reason, right? Keep on being cool there, buddy.

By Blake

June 17, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

MEt Man has to come in here to talk because he has no friends in New York that speak English

By berigan

June 17, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

Smoltz may tell his life story on FOX today, in this very long half inning!

By Chris

June 17, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

Wish Smoltz had been able to talk longer…

By Bob, journalist

June 17, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

David O’B, I just saw your post regarding my coments on restructuring as I started to shut down the computer … I’m headed to bed but will respond later this evening after some much needed sleep.

By Del

June 17, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

Oh My !! Bases loaded, one out, and our two veteran Jones boys coming up. Time for our two vets to show us the way out of this wasteland, right? Right !! Two infield popups. Pure T crap. Is this what Cox means when he says we need veteran leadership? And I thought the Tigers were inept in their 119 loss season. This performance is absolutely shameful.

By eric the elder

June 17, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

Del, just for accuracy, it was Betemit, not Chipper. Same result though.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this

It’s so painful to watch this garbage.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

Todd Pratt is officially worthless.

Brian Jordan is hurt again. Boo-hoo. Does this song sound familiar to anyone? “Hey, I’m hurt. I’m gonna sit for a while. But you guys just go ahead and keep signing those checks, OK?” For a former football player, he sure has an interesting way of being sat down by the smallest non-injuries.

Trade Marcus. Get Crawford. Save Andruw, Francoeur, Renteria, McCann, Smoltz and Huddie. Do whatever else needs to be done. Just don’t keep trotting out the same thing every day and expect the fans to think you’re committed to winning.

By Kenny

June 17, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

Baseball is as American as apple pie and so is the boycott. It’s time for the fans to boycott the games en masse. They are lousy. DOB, how can you possibly think this team can turn it around? It ain’t gonna happen. The boycott may take a while but it won’t be long before nobody is in the stands except fans of the other teams.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Kenny, have you been to a recent Braves game when we’re not playing the Sox? Seems like there’s been a boycott going on for years…

By old timer

June 17, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

It ain’t a boycott,Kenny. It’s fans leaving the bandwagon. Most people are only there for the good times.

The players look like they’re in shock. They will start playing better ball again. However, it is time, as some have suggested, to dump the non-producing veterans and go with younger guys.

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

If you’ve ever been to the Ted, you’ll notice that way over 50% of the crowd are not watching the game. Someone tell me why women dress up like hoochie mamas to go “watch” a ball game? And do these people ever sit down? Please, non-fans go somewhere else to drink $7 beer and party.

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

That’s not a criticism of female fans…that was just to the girls who “slut it up” at games (around my children, no less)

By journalist jimmy smith

June 17, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

chipper is sick today with a sore thumb - so he did not face josh beckett. journalist is betting the thumb will be sore again tomorrow when curt schilling pitches. thumb soreness should go away in time to face toronto blue jays feared ted lilly. someone asked journalist the difference in numbness and soreness and where does tingling come into play? this will be discussed in a future post. now, pinch hitters - journalist cannot remember more feared braves’ pinch hitters than “p” players pratt and pete orr. neither can hit but pete orr would be fast if he could get on base, and pratt is said to have presence much like brian jordan. journalist has watched both mccann and pratt this year as well as b. pena. for the life of journalist, cannot figure out what pratt does better than either of the young players. now, bob … he is not going to be happy when he wakes up.

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

The pen looked better today and Cormier did better than I expected…of course, I don’t want to see him start again, though. Bring on Chuck James, Bi-tch!

By Chris

June 17, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

At least the Turner Sluts give you something to look at when the product on the field becomes unwatchable…as is the case right now.

By Robert(Justice Is the Best)

June 17, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this

This is the most horrible thing imaginable. The really bad thing is that this is not one of those teams from the ’80s that you could understand why they couldn’t win. This team is so much better than this. I am tired of all these strikeouts. I have tried to keep from believing this but I can no longer deny the truth. This is all a matter of management. On the field. Where’s the fire? Where’s the discipline? Where’s the instruction? Bobby get mad and get these boys motivated. Terry quit sitting there calmly popping sunflower seeds and start telling these pros to start hitting like pros and recongnize the situation. Terry, teach Francoeur instead of just reinforcing his bad habits. Everyone is down on Francoeur but he is only doing what he is being told. Terry and Bobby told him to stay aggressive and just keep doing what he is doing. What non-sense!

This is just a vicious cycle. The pitching is good, as it has been the last week or so, and the hitting sucks. Hitting is on and the pitching sucks.

I personally believe that Chipper, Andruw, and Smoltz are so frustrated and disgusted at the way the offseason was handled and the way Bobby is handling this team right now that they don’t know what to do. Maybe its time for a player revolt.

Are we ever going to win another game. It sure doesn’t seem like it!

By journalist jimmy smith

June 17, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

hail, hail, the gang’s all here, it’s time for woody willow, time for woody willow. journalist suggests the braves acquire woody willow from the american league and let him play wherever he likes. he will be a fine addition to this team. we can send them a designated hitter in return.

By Head Coach

June 17, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

We are about to end up dead last in the division looking up at the Marlins , If that doesnt scream FIRE SALE !!!!!!!! I dont know what will.

By craig t

June 17, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

price of hot dog at turner field - 6.00

avg price of braves ticket- 25.00

Braves payroll - 80 million

LAST PLACE- Priceless

By craig t

June 17, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

price of hot dog at turner field - 6.00

avg price of braves ticket- 25.00

Braves payroll - 80 million

LAST PLACE- Priceless

By craig t

June 17, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

price of hot dog at turner field - 6.00

avg price of braves ticket- 25.00

Braves payroll - 80 million

LAST PLACE- Priceless

By Chris

June 17, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

We’re not “about to end up” anywhere. The season isn’t even half over. To say we’re going to finish in last is ridiculous.

We don’t need a “fire sale” to start rebuilding. What we need to do is ship a couple youngsters (of which we have about a billion) for some proven talent that will stay here beyond this year, i.e. Carl Crawford. The people we need to get rid of can’t be traded; no one will take them. There needs to be a couple of outright releases and a few moves to bring us some stability.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Craig T, I think you may have gotten your point across…

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 06:19 PM | Link to this

I guess you have a point about the “Turner Sluts,” Chris. I like that.

By Chris

June 17, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

Hey, at least they spruce up the scenery. Of course, I’d rather have a team that was good enough to actually watch so I wouldn’t notice the hoochies (as much…).

By Mike

June 17, 2006 06:27 PM | Link to this

If the Braves keep on doing what they have been doing, they will keep on getting what they are getting

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 06:32 PM | Link to this

$80 million is a manageable budget. Right now, though we have to wait out the big money guys on the roster before we can invest in big name free agents…2008-2009 should be good years.

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

Regarding the wild card: it’s possible. I know there are 9 teams ahead of the Braves, but you can disqualify several of them: Washington, Milwaukee, Colorado, San Diego, Philly, and San Francisco.

By Glass Half Full

June 17, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

I’m going on record now: the Dodgers will win the NL West. Biggest competitors for the wild card will be Houston and the Reds.

By nathan

June 17, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

*Regarding the wild card: it’s possible. I know there are 9 teams ahead of the Braves, but you can disqualify several of them: Washington, Milwaukee, Colorado, San Diego, Philly, and San Francisco. *

Right now, I’m sure all of those mentioned teams ares saying the same thing about the braves. Especially since every single one of those teams has handed the Braves their A$$’s when they’ve played them.

Sorry…..just callin’ it like I see it. Face facts, if those are the teams that the Braves have to chase to EARN the wild card. They’re in TROUBLE!

By shame on you

June 17, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this

SCREW ALL THE HARTLESS BRAVES PLAYERS.. F@#$CK THIS S$#@!~T HARTLESS A$$ WIPES…

By shame on you

June 17, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

What am I supposed to say, WAIT TILL NEXT YEAR..I don’t think so..we said that for years already..we can even beat the f@@#!*ing MARLINS..Spoiled,soiled cry baby rich player who don’t give a sh!t about the fans..SCREW YOU ALL….!

By old timer

June 17, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

You don’t have to give up and say wait until next year, but that’s what we’re looking at. I hate it as much as anybody, but it can’t be fixed overnight. This team has a good, young nucleus and some good vets to help them, but it isn’t like ‘93 when you knew that if the Giants faltered, we’d catch them. We have nothing close to Maddux, Glavine, Avery and Smoltz (yes, he was the number 4 guy that year) and can’t match the middle of the order: Gant, Justice, McGriff. Just not even close. I know we don’t have to catch the Mets, but we don’t have enough for the wild card, either. Hey, it had to end someday.

By Allyssa

June 17, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

Yea…its true but we can still believe that we can do it..Some people have already given up on the Braves….

By David O'Brien

June 17, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this

Shame on you, there’s an “e” somewhere there in “hartless.”

Hey, imagine if the Braves go from last to first (for 14 completed seasons) and back to last, with nothing in-between, no seconds, thirds or fourth places.

However, I’m confident that won’t happen. Terrible as they look now, they won’t finish behind the Marlins or Nationals, that’s my prediction and I’m sticking with it (for now)….

Chipper, by the way, just for sake of accuracy, was sick today as I said this afternoon. However, a sore right thumb was the official reason for his absence from lineup. In case anyone cares….

The crowds the last two days were more supportive of the opposing team than any I can remember except two incidents: A Yankees series at Pro Player Stadium in a down year for the Marlins, when there must have been 30,000 Yankees fans in crowds of about 40,000; and the Cubs’ division series here a few years ago, especially after Braves fans started bailing when the outcome was no longer in doubt in the final game, and the place sounded like Wrigley, almost as much as it did Fenway today….

Guess that’s why the Sox get invited to all the good bowl games, because they travel so well. OK, it’s late, I’m loopy….

Oh, by the way, today I heard an advance copy of a CD that Peter Gammons recorded, and guess what? It’s actually GOOD! The man can sing, I’m serious. He plays guitar and sings some bluesy rock numbers, and has some talented big-time musicians backing him. I was really surprised how good it sounded.

It’s some kind of benefit CD, proceeds going to a foundation I think Theo Eptstein helped him start, or something along those lines. Peter’s on the cover playing guitar (some of you are probably wondering if I’m being serious; I am). There’s even a picture inside with Peter jamming with a baseball cap on (seriously, could I make this stuff up? No. I couldn’t.)

Anyway, it’ll be out next month, I’m told. Not saying I recommend to rush out and buy it. Just telling you it was weird to hear him and be impressed when someone told me who I was listening to.

OK, on that note, I need to go listen to some Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds….

By Phillip

June 17, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

At least Thorman’s on the way to Atlanta tonight.

By David O'Brien

June 17, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

Hey, Kenny, I just had to comment on your post, since I just read it before logging off.

RE: Your “boycott.”

What, pray tell, are you boycotting exactly? The fact that the Braves are going to miss the playoffs for the first time in 15 postseasons?

Uh, run that “cause” up the flagpole in every other major league ballpark except perhaps Yankee Stadium and see how long it’d take for you to be laughed out of the place or surrounded by men in white coats.

Seriously, my man, that’s the most ridiculous “boycott” I’ve ever heard of. You give a bad name to legit reasons for boycotts.

Boycott the Braves because they’re going to miss the playoffs. Good one.

By Jman

June 17, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

I thought I heard Gil Meche’s name bandied about in the offseason in Braves rumors? He is putting together a solid season. He’s 7-4 with 4.10 era. That would almost make him the Ace in Atlanta. The reason I bring this up is because he is once again rumored in numerous deals. Are the Braves possbily in on that? Considering that the Marlins probably will not part with Dontrelle. The Carlos Lee thing intrigues me. The guy is making 8.5 mil this year. So I would assume that this deal would include more than just prospects considering the Braves cant take on that much salary, right?

By Jman

June 18, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this

I thought I heard Gil Meche’s name bandied about in the offseason in Braves rumors? He is putting together a solid season. He’s 7-4 with 4.10 era. That would almost make him the Ace in Atlanta. The reason I bring this up is because he is once again rumored in numerous deals. Are the Braves possbily in on that? Considering that the Marlins probably will not part with Dontrelle. The Carlos Lee thing intrigues me. The guy is making 8.5 mil this year. So I would assume that this deal would include more than just prospects considering the Braves cant take on that much salary, right?

By hoho

June 18, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this

i was glad to see WB in there today. too bad he didn’t do much. i was disappointed, but not surprised, that with WB and Giles in there Cox didn’t try a liitle different batting order. WB leading off, Giles in his comfy 2 hole, ER batting 3rd, something like that.

a question i wonder to myself: how does Cox hope for things to change while keeping things the same up to now? primarily, why does he continue to have faith in Giles as a lead off man? what more proof does he need? i really have liked Giles in years past, but if he was so good just because Furcal was on base a lot, therefore he saw more fastballs, then how good is he anyway? if that’s the only way he can be successful he seems rather limited offensively, or at the least mis-cast in his role now.

like on of y’all said the other day: ER is the lead off man, he just starts the game with one out (or something like that, to paraphrase)

really though, why does Cox think things will get better by keeping things the same?

By Carroll

June 18, 2006 09:45 AM | Link to this

DOB: it’s not about boycotting the Braves because they’re not gonna make the playoffs for the first time since Adam and Eve met…..we all knew it would happen eventually and that’s fine. But it’s like Schultz says in his article….this should not be happening now, at least not to this ridiculous degree. This is way too good of a team to play like this. Fact is, they just don’t care. That can be the ONLY explanation. Unless you want to consider that our best players had been on steroids and now with the new testing they had to come off and, thus, their skilld diminished ecponentially over night. This unisnpired, sloppy play is completely inexcusable, and totlayy justifies a boycott. Especially since the manager nor the GM is doing ANYTHING about it.

By BravesFaninRockies

June 18, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

hoho, right on, man. why not let WB lead off and maybe relieve some of the pressure on Giles? i’ll go one better: when Chipper comes back, lead him off. he’s been one of the most consistent OBP guys in the league since he came up. and he’ll never again put up the sort of power numbers he did 4-5 years ago. so let Renteria hit with somebody on base. then hit McCann third. it’s a slow team anyway, so why not bunch your best guys at the top of the order?

By BravesFaninRockies

June 18, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

btw, the dodgers never had any qualms about hitting piazza third or fourth when he was in his prime.

By Patrick

June 18, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I heard Steve Phillips report this trade rumor, I wanted to see if you have heard anything.

Marcus Giles, Salty, Ramirez for BARRY ZITO and Marcus Scutaro

By Dean

June 18, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

DOB,

One should not boycott, but I wouldn’t give these OVERPAID players any of my hard earned money when I can sit at home at watch them lose for free on tv..

We should expect them to win, losing is unacceptable in atlanta, I don’t care what year it is.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 01:00 PM | Link to this

“chipper, by the way, just for sake of accuracy, was sick today as I said this afternoon. however, a sore right thumb was the official reason for his absence from lineup. in case anyone cares….” -DOB

clarity and accuracy in journalism is most important. it is good that dob explained this thumb sickness to us, for journalist jimmy smith was concerned for any player with sickness in an opposable digit (how long before it spreads to the toes?). “opposable” works with chipper, right? accuracy, remember. imagine a sick toe and what that might do to a superstar third baseman! think along with jimmy smith now and consider how a sick toe might be treated … poultice? enough of that picture! now, singing journalists … how long will it be before we see a dob album (oops, showing journalist’s age) … a dob cd? such a fan of music is likely a performer, too. jimmy smith will place an order as soon as the dob cd is ready. can a joe morgan cd be far behind? bob rathbun gets down? jeff torborg boogies? old journalist emits? (some thoughts are better suppressed.) now, spelling … dob is right to point out that there is an “e” in heartless. jimmy smith actually found two. to dean, welcome to atlanta … just get here? “losing is unacceptable in atlanta” - you have much to learn about our town. welcome to atl, get ‘em up get ‘em up. now, curt schilling - will francoeur make contact today? journalist thinks he must be selective and maybe he can drive one today. otherwise, it will not be pretty. journalist out. (let bob sleep - night game).

By David O'Brien

June 18, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

Dean, I guess the same thing can be said for overpaid players in every market where they’ve had losers for past 15 years. Hey, that’s certainly your priority. I don’t think I’d be going out there too often if I had to pay for a ticket, that’s for sure. Unless it was to sit in the sun and watch a ballgame in one of the cheap seats, the ones that cost about the same as a movie.

I’m with you on that. It’s just the silly use of “boycott” that offended me. I mean, “boycott?” Yeah, righteous cause, brother… Pleeeeze. If that’s the best cause you can find to boycott, you’re living in a far better world than I’m seeing.

Hey, I’m gonna check into the Phillips rumor. I hadn’t hear him say that. I will say it makes sense in that Bobby Cox raves about Zito, and I’m sure Hudson has given them a thumbs-up if they’ve asked him about him. And as I’ve said, Braves want to always build around solid starting pitching, which frankly they haven’t had the past few years, not anything remotely similar to the previous 12 or so years.

By David O'Brien

June 18, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

Oh, I forgot to ask Bob The Builder, er, Bob, Journalist: I guess your nap and/or full night of sleep didn’t help you find a few examples of restructured contracts, huh? Just wanted you to know I’m listening, and came back to find your response.

Oh, well. We’ll just take your word that it happens all the time.

By PENN

June 18, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

quote:

By Patrick

June 18, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

DOB, I heard Steve Phillips report this trade rumor, I wanted to see if you have heard anything.

Marcus Giles, Salty, Ramirez for BARRY ZITO and Marcus Scutaro

&&&&&&&&&&

Why would the Brqaves want Scutaro? In 126 ABs he’s hitting .215 with 25 strikeouts. Zito — YES but Scutaro?

By David O'Brien

June 18, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

Regarding Zito rumor, I should quickly add that there are obviously far more reasons why it makes no sense than there are reasons it might happen: For one (very big) thing, Zito can be a free agent after the season and will command a huge contract. Huge. And I don’t think Braves are in any position, with ownership in flux, to know that they could make legit offer to keep a guy who is going to be heavily sought-after by the NY teams and others.

While I’m not opposed to trading Salty or other prospects for a major-impact starter, I’d never do it for a guy you might only have for a half-season, not when you’ve fallen 13 games out of first and the division title is no longer a realistic goal. No way I’d do that, again unless you knew or felt real good about re-signing him to a long extension, which I don’t see any way the Braves could feel strongly they have a chance to do.

Alas, that was probably a legit rumor a few weeks ago, when the Braves were still in the East race and felt good about their chances of continuing their run. Now, after this 3-16 debacle, I just don’t see how it could be a legit trade possibility, I really don’t.

Zito has also said he wants to be traded to a NY team, which should indicate where he’ll lean if he hits the open market, as he almost certainly will, after the season.

One other thing: You may remember I’ve said consistently that Hudson wouldn’t be available unless the Braves fell waaay out of the division race before the July 31 deadline. Well, I never thought they’d fall this far back this quick, and it wouldn’t surprise me now if Hudson were shopped, since the Braves could get a whole lot in return for him from a contender looking to add an ace for the stretch run.

If Oakland decides not to trade Zito before the deadline (they’re making a strong move now in the AL West race) and resurgent Florida decides to hold on to Willis, Hudson could be the best available starting pitcher. Braves could get a lot of talent in return for him, if they decided to entertain offers.

By Blake

June 18, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

DOB,

IF you had to guess are the Braves sellers or buyers or both?

By Blake

June 18, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

DOB,

IF you had to guess are the Braves sellers or buyers or both?

By Carroll

June 18, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

DOB: I know it seems like a waste to trade for Zit-o since he’s gonna be a FA next season. BUT maybe the way the Braves look at it is like this: trade for him now, we have 2.5 mos to get a look at him before the 8/31 trade deadline. If we claw within so many games of first place, we keep him and make a run at it all this year. But if we haven’t moved any closer than 9 or 10 games back by then, we flip him to a contender for more than we gave up to get him. Kinda like buying a house for cheap, and flipping it. Thoughts?

By Adam

June 18, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

I never thought I’d be supportive of moving Smoltz or Andruw, but I’m forced to admit that I now believe it’d be a good idea. Here are some moves I would make - if all could be made together - to strengthen our team for many more dominant years. Trade Smoltz & Giles to the Mets for Lastings Millage (if the Mets would do it.) Trade Andruw to the White Sox for Brandon McCarthy & a relief pitcher. Trade Salty and a pitching prospect to Tampa Bay for Crawford. Trade Reitsma and Horacio Rameriz to the Rockies for AAA 1st baseman Ryan Shealy. Use the $$ we saved by dealing Smoltz & Andruw to sign Zito and address the bullpen.

Make these trades and we have a superb team, relatively cheaply, and under contract for many years. That, to me, is a team that could easily start another run of division titles, and I think each of these trade is feasible. Imagine this lineup: Crawford LF Renteria SS C. Jones 3rd Francour CF McCann C Millage RF Shealy 1st Betemit 2nd

and a starting staff of Hudson, Zito, Hampton, Davies and McCarthy. Wow.

By Blake

June 18, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

Adam,

Those are some of the worst ideas I have ever heard. Was that a joke?

By Tyler

June 18, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

DO,

Why would the Braves go after Carlos Lee instead of Carl Crawford? I would love to have Lee, by he is a FA next year and does not help at all with our lack of a leadoff hitter. Would they go after both?

Thanks!

By Adam

June 18, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Blake:

Nope. Why do you think they’re bad ideas? Got any better ones?

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Jordan is a good guy. I’ve never complained about the way he acts on the field. Always smiles. Always looks like he’s enjoying the game and helpful and all…. but PRAISE THE LORD HE’s ON THE DL!!! So happy about this. Thorman is up. THat’s two, 2, Lefty first basemen…. By, by platoon. How wonderful! Give Thorman some starts. He’ll pick up some slack.
Reitsma is gone. Jordan is gone.
Stockman is up. Thorman is Up.
With Chuck James on his way, the Braves are looking better already. All we need now is a lead off hitter. JS must make a major trade, even if it’s only one guy. I’d perfer a starter and a left fielder, but I’ll live with just a left fielder. He must make a major trade because it signifies major team. Winning team. Still got a chance. Selling off big names is signifying giving up. I don’t wanna give up yet.
All this losing is awful. But it’s nothing a 20 game win streak couldn’t fix. The Braves have been masters at the improbable, so I’m not counting anything out yet.

GO BRAVES!!

By BravesFaninRockies

June 18, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

Adam,

Even if the trades could be made (Andruw and Smoltz are 10-5 guys, so they could veto anything), unless JS can pull the trigger on all of these deals within about 15 seconds, they would never happen. Once GMs learn that the Braves are blowing up the roster, we would have to provide more value with each transaction.

That’s how pro (not fantasy) sports works.

That’s why I say do wild and crazy stuff with the lineup we have now and see if it lights a fire under anybody so that big deals aren’t necessary.

(I’m also afraid that if we wait til the 7/31 to deal, we’ll be 20 games out of the wild card and nothing will matter.)

By Chop Chop

June 18, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Carroll,

First of all, the trade deadline is July 31. Basically, you would be looking at a little over a month of Zito if the Braves decided to trade him because they’re out of the hunt.

Second, if the Braves have to give up a lot to get Zito, there’s no guarantee they’ll be able to get back equal value in return from a contender (if the Braves were to trade him to someone else) to make up for what the Braves traded to Oakland for him. In other words, the Braves wouldn’t get him cheaply.

By TennesseePaul

June 18, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

There should be a whole slew of correct spellings in there… but the point’s the same.

By Dale R.

June 18, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

Dave O:

If the Braves unload Hudson, hopefully it will be to a contender like St Louis. Somebody who will demolish the Mutts in the playoffs! Reunite Mulder and Hudson!

Dale R.

By David O'Brien

June 18, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t have to guess whether they’re going to be buyers or sellers, so I won’t. Kinda silly to guess when we’ll probably know soon. I mean, if they lose another 9 out of next 10, we’ll probably know they’re not going to be buyers, right?

Pointless to “guess” right now.

By Carroll

June 18, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

Chop: the non-waiver deadline is 7/31 BUT the REAL deadline is 8/31. A lot of BIG deals get done on the 8/31 deadline.

By Dean

June 18, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Thats the irony of it all, not knowing if JS is working on a blockbuster deal or just sitting on his hands, but my gut tells me his hands are tied, and there is nothing he can do. Its going to be a long summer in hotlanta..If we start dumping contracts, I’d rather it be position players and not pitching. Dump chipper for sure..Pithing is what won the braves 14 div titles, and there is no reason they can’t do it again with a rebuilt staff and bullpen.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

it’s not nice to pick on bob, dob. soon he will wake up and have his way with you. the major impediment to restructuring is and has been the players’ union. odd, isn’t it that union stalwart glavine restructured but the union blocked a-rod? if the braves drop out of contention will a beat writer still be needed? journalist jimmy smith sees the ajc hip-hop desk in dob’s future. best hip-hop coverage in the country. if so, journalist stands ready to assist with baseball coverage. now, bob … it is your turn.

By brian

June 18, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

I agree with DOB. It would be insane to trade Salty for Zito unless Zito is locked up for 3-4 more years at least. Hopefully Dan Johnson or their injured 1B prospect is included as well.

Come on Thorman. I hope he actually plays and he doesn’t sit by Betemit on the bench

By Daria

June 18, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

DOB—

Even if the Braves feel they aren’t “buyers” … I still don’t think Hudson should be on the block. For an ace pitcher, he’s not paid all that much, when compared to other pitchers on his level or even below his level. I realize his contract jumps after next season but it’s still not unreasonable and the Braves still get Huddy for a bargain price in ‘07.

As you yourself mentioned, the Braves pride themselves on building a team around solid starting pitching, which they’ve lacked over the past couple of years. Smoltz and Huddy anchor our staff and after them, it’s a crapshoot. To trade away Huddy, knowing that Smoltz has his option year next year and then his future is questionable, is ill-advised, IMO. I think the Braves should be building around Huddy. He’s a top of the rotation pitcher and the goal should be adding more of them to support Huddy, for the future, instead of subtracting. (Regardless of what decision they make on this season.)

I really hope this is not something JS is seriously considering. I feel the Braves can get some talent in return for other players and using prospects from our rich farm system. I really was hopeful JS would have made a trade by now… then maybe the bleeding would have stopped and we wouldn’t be in the position to even consider being “sellers.” I think right now, it is in JS’ best interest to try to improve this team via trade NOW and hope we can get on a roll and make a push for the wild card.

If it doesn’t work out, you can always turn around and remove players closer to the deadline, although Tim Hudson should not be one of them.

By Woogidy

June 18, 2006 07:22 PM | Link to this

Trade Hudson, Giles, Sosa, Thomson, and Laroche. Chuck James, Kyle Davies, Betemit, and Thorman are all ready. Chuck is the next Tom Glavine.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

a nobody, how is the lady? fresh corn, watermelon? what was on the menu? now, it is time to wake up bob. when he reads today’s blog he will be feisty again. chipper is still out with the thumb sickness. thorman is in left batting third. no “p” players today. betemit bats eighth. why is he so far down in the order? he bats 40 points higher than francoeur and laroche. still, no “p” players is a good thing.

By lofty

June 18, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, I know Bob The Builder. Bob The Builder is a friend of mine. And Bob, “journalist”, is no Bob the Builder.

By Hal

June 18, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Heres my all ironic line up 1.Frenchy rf patience is a true virtue of a lead off man 2 Andru cf watch him go to right field and hit behind those runners yeaaaa 3 T Pratt C it should be obvious why i bat this “stud” third 4 B Jordan 1b see above 5 R Langerhans lf with nobody on who cares if he strikes out 6 c Jones 3b he will have 3 extra batters to reherce his lines for next commercial 7 P Orr ss i bet he runs over Chipper if chipper ever gets on and if pete ever gets an actual hit 8 Chad Paronto p comic relief 9 M Giles 2b Heyyy they wouldent let me bat him 10th

By A Nobody

June 18, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith, the lady is doing just great! We had ourselves a blast over there! Grilled chicken, hamburgers, roast ears of corn, big ol’ pot of buttery baby lima beans, baked beans, and ice cold watermelon washed down with soft drinks, sweet tea and fresh brewed coffee. Oh, man, it doesn’t get any better! The temp was about 80 or so, not humid and a real good breeze. I’m not sure how many where there, but it was a gang - including kids, dogs, and cats! Everybody sitting around talking and just having a good time, even had a mini-shooting contest. She has a T-frame about 100’ from the back porch that we set empty Diet Coke cans on, and took turns shooting a BB at them. (I’m not saying who won, but it wasn’t me! LOL) Anyhow, it was just great and we were all one big tired-out, droopy-eyed bunch when we left. You come home from being with folks like that and you just feel good inside. I even forgot the Braves for a while! Before I forget, I passed along your greetings and she said she sure misses the fun all y’all had. Don’t know if she’ll be back on anytime soon or not. Game time! Shilling will make mince-meat out of our heros.

By David O'Brien

June 18, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

Daria, point taken on Hudson. However, if it did come to that, they might get more trading him now precisely because he still is so cheap in 2007 ($6 mill), before his salary jumps to $13 mill each of the next two seasons.

I wasn’t saying it’s going to be done or I’ve heard he’s being shopped. Just reminding anyone, before they could say I said he’d never be traded, that what I actually said was he wouldn’t be traded unless the Braves fell waaaaay out of the race before July 31, which at the time I said I couldn’t envision happening.

OK, that’s it.

Thorman struck out first time up. Tough assignment, facing Schill in your first game in the bigs.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

a nobody, somehow jimmy smith knew what was on today’s menu before you told us. that sounds most delicious. now, about that grilled “chicken” … are you sure it was not crow? carolina lady has a freezer full of crows. as to the bb gun contest, there is no shame in losing to carolina lady. she has much practice shooting at crows - and she enjoys home field advantage much like the braves … oh, wait a minute the braves are not doing well at home are they? now, marcus giles … he is having some good at-bats. francoeur actually took two pitches to start his last at-bat and he ended up with a hit. so, smoltz says the door is open to moving to another team … interesting possibility. now, betemit … will he be in the lineup tomorrow? how long does a clavicle injury last? will we be denied presence during this injury? espn has smoltz packing his bags. if he goes, js better load the wagon with young talent in return. no more hollandsworths, please. coco crisp, remains a wonderful baseball name much like third baseman strawberry fields from a few years back. where is bob? it is believed that bob is doing research and will soon leave a monumental post.

By Antonio McNugget

June 18, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

I am quite fond of Wilson Beatameat.

By Dirty Dawg

June 18, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

What’s the point in not believing that the Braves could make the playoffs…so you can say I told you so when they don’t? It’s the ‘fair-weather’ thing that we’ve become known for. With the amazing run of success that the team has had you’d think that we would have developed a more sophisticated fan, but you’ve never heard us described as knowledgeable, or of us being a ‘good baseball town’…yes we’ve had good baseball but have never truly deserved it.

And when will somebody take that fat jerk doing the game with Morgan and slap the crap out of him the next time he mis-pronounces Wilson Betemit’s name. He’s done it every time they’ve had the game and surely by now he’s been told the proper way to do it - which is the way that Wilson’s family does it. Hell, even Joe Morgan knows how to pronounce it. He doesn’t seem to have a problem with Manny Ramirez’s name (if he were to be a stickler on it e’s sound like a’s).

By Antonio McNugget

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

excuse me Bate a meat

By Antonio McNugget

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

excuse me Bate a meat

By glennbo

June 18, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

Dirty Dawg, You’re right. That fat guy aughta be slapped upside down and backards.

By A Nobody

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

Jimmy, out of pure curiosity I looked at some definitions of the word PRESENCE; found one that I’ve read a dozen times and still don’t know what it says. LOL!! Asked my wife what she thought it meant and all I got was that ‘look’ - if you’re married you know what I mean - Anyhow, I think it sums up the mysterious dugout ‘presence’: Presence is the personal nature of Absolute Consciousness, separated from its own Substance, and is experientially resonantly knowable as a personal environment.* LOL

By Woogidy

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

WHAT IF HE WAS A MASTER OF SOMETHING?

By JJMB

June 18, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, How does Betemit pronouce his name? Is the final t pronouced? Or is it Bay-tee-may, like the pig-eyed sack of sht ESPN announcer says it?

If you don’t know, would you ask him?

By Riley Martin

June 18, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

Bateameat
Johnny Miller is a master wordsmen and things of this nature. Joe Morgan is getting confused but will revert towards Millers expertise when possible.

By Woogidy

June 18, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Somebody get Thorman a jersey that fits!

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this

presence - “5 a : the bearing, carriage, or air of a person; especially : stately or distinguished bearing b : a quality of poise and effectiveness that enables a performer to achieve a close relationship with an audience” - jimmy smith consulted a dictionary. it is hard to fathom bobby valuing poise in the dugout when he has his finger in his nose. there must be another definition of presence that we have not yet found. don’t forget that chipper is on the bench. need some pinch hitting magic in a few minutes. oh, wait … pete orr.

By Riley Martin

June 18, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

I for one do not like the nickname Frenchie. It does not ceem to get the point across and things of this nature. I may be alone on this but in case i am not i would like to propose we make a change to a better more exciting nickname.

My vote is Franky Danky Ding Dong.

By Riley Martin

June 18, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

Do Sayonyez and Longerhauns know each other. Better yet do they know Johnny Miller? Does Joe Morgan always sweat. Many unanswed questions.

By eric the elder

June 18, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

Betemit and Seanez are Hispanic. Jon Miller speaks fluent Spanish. The correct Spanish pronunciations are Bay-ta-meet and Say-an-yez (because of the tilde on the “n”). We’re allowed to prefer the Anglicized versions, but we shouldn’t trash Miller for using the corect pronunciations.

By Ambiguata

June 18, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this

Why does it take another teams fans infiltrating our stadium to get Braves fans to act the way true fans should at every game? I sure hate the Red Sox, but at least their team knows they’re around. Maybe we can hire these Sox fans to come to every homestand so that people will actually cheer and get out of their seat!

By Allyssa

June 18, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

Ummmm….us Braves fans do get out of our seats in cheer if you want to get on peoples backs about fans why dont you go complain on the Flordia Marlins site or whatever…

By eric the elder

June 18, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

The “veteran presence” should have prevented Francoeur from coming out of the dugout for a wave. It was too early in the game, and the Sox had to feel they were being shown up. Look at the result.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

somehow we all knew the pen would blow this. are the red sox playing better national league ball than the braves?

flash! bobby is angry! bobby cox is mad! wait until they put the camera on him again … now he appears dead. what is going on?

sadly, chad paronto is now dead as well. well, this is not going well. maybe chipper can hit a 5-run homer to win it.

By Woogidy

June 18, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this

FU**

By MurphyRules

June 18, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

This is absoutely the WORST BULLPEN IN BASEBALL HISTORY. Relievers’ strategy: Throw balls in hopes the batters will swing at them. Run the count to 3-0. Throw as many pitches right down the middle as possible until someone reaches base.

Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. ……

By Jimbo

June 18, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

I love this team… Always entertaining. I new way to lose every night.

By Leo Mazzone

June 18, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

HAHA Y’ALL MISS ME NOW SUCKAAAAAZ!

By Jimbo

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

Rem the Great will put out the fire.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

eric the elder is wise. that little curtain call was a mistake. seems kinda silly now, doesn’t it? when will we see remlinger’s wonderful curve?

By Jimbo

June 18, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

Rem just plunked Big Poopy… I love it!

By hoho

June 18, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

well that should about do it. it shouldn’t really, but even in years past the braves typically don’t overcome 4 run deficits late in the game. funny though, they’re still getting paid, hope they’re still trying.

wonder if chipper’s on the block?

By Allyssa

June 18, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

OMG…our bullpen needs so much help…all we can hope for now is our bats to come around…

By A Nobody

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

I think the elevator is just about to reach the basement level…..which the Braves will have all to themselves.

By Jman

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

THE FREAKIN’ RUN IS OVER!!! THESE GUYS ARE FREAKIN’ JOKES!!! IT IS SICKENING TO SIT HERE AND WATCH THIS CRAP!!! GET USED TO HEARING THE OTHER TEAMS FANS CHEER AT GAMES. BECAUSE AS LONG AS JS SITS ON HIS HUMP AND DOES ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO HELP THIS TEAM IT WILL BE THIS WAY!!! THEY ARE HORRIBLE!!! YOU GET A FREAKIN HR FROM FRANCOEUR TO SNAP THE OFFENSIVE FUNK AND THEN STRIKE TWO OF THE BEST HITTERS IN THE AL OUT AND THEN YOU WALK THE BLESSED WORLD AND IT ALL COMES CRASHING DOWN!!! JS SELL, SELL, SELL!!! WHILE YOU STILL CAN!!! GET RID OF THEM ALL!!! BRING UP THE RICHMOND TEAM THEY COULD DO MUCH BETTER!!!!

By Jimbo

June 18, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

The good thing about tonight is that the Midget got some hits. Maybe his trade value will go up.

By Woogidy

June 18, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

another one run loss in the cards?

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

the announcers are right. there is no room for another of the little division signs. of course, they could fly a pennant from the flag pole - but, sadly, it won’t be this year. if giles had been hitting like this earlier we’d have won a few more games. still, the pen is every bit as bad as we feared it would be in pre-season. maybe they should have kept wes obermueller. six runs at home with smoltz is supposed to be a win. here comes chipper!!! he represents the tying run. this may portend the season …

By Allyssa

June 18, 2006 11:26 PM | Link to this

you mean Marcus Giles….

By journalist jimmy smith

June 18, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

not dead yet … this is exciting. maybe they will come back. but can they get the red sox out? betcha mccann has a good at-bat.

By supa

June 18, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

The Moneyball strategy looks pretty good now.

This isn’t the worst team ever. But this may be the worst $80MM team ever.

By robdawg06

June 18, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Another good Smoltz start wasted by the bullpen. Has anyone ever told the bullpen pitchers that the idea is to give up no hits or runs and not get lots of action by allowing lots of scoring ? I’m not even watching these games. I’m checking the scores on Yahoo. I’d get too mad if I watched it.

By supa

June 18, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Now the braves just have to get one more run in the 9th to make it another 1-run loss, and it couldn’t have been scripted any better. I feel like I’m watching a bad re-run.

By Rip

June 18, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Braves management better get use to more fans for other teams at Turner field than Braves fans. “FROM 1st to Last” GREAT JOB JOHN & BOBBY!!!!!! Both need to be fired tonight but we have no owner that cares. Just pray pray pray.

By hoho

June 18, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

or the little leprachaun as my wife calls him, and she likes him (she was livid when i told her Gilly was probably on the block)

By Jimbo

June 18, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

What did they do with Death-Ray? Anyone seen him lately? There is some loser out there wearing his uni.

By robdawg06

June 18, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

This is a “b****** pen”. Their motto : Equal opportunity runs allowed.

By Leo Mazzone

June 18, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

You all sht on my good name and basically told me, “Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.” I’m not just talking about the Braves players and coaches, I’m talking about the media (such as your precious David O’Brien) and the fans as well. Well have fun losing btches! This is what you get when you let a Hall of Famer walk out the door and replace him with a rookie! This is what you get when 14 years of turning trash into diamonds goes unrecognized! If you want to watch some winning teams, there’s a good NBA game on ABC in the 4th quarter right now. The Sox had the Curse of the Bambino… the Cubs had the Curse of the Bartman… the Braves now have the Curse of Leo. Y’all better learn how to enjoy losing, because you’re gonna have to get used to it.

A bullpen that is DEAD LAST IN THE LEAGUE IN EVERY CATEGORY… a team ERA of 4.75… the best starter has an ERA over 3.50… what do you expect when you let a Hall of Famer walk away? Roger McDowell, my shining a*****.

By Jimo

June 18, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

DONKEY IN THE DUGOUT DONKEY KONG

By A Nobody

June 18, 2006 11:55 PM | Link to this

Let’s see…….Marcus is 5’8”. I’m a little over 5’10”….. If he’s a midget, I must be an almost-midget even though I’m less than 2” from 6’ even. How tall are all y’all throwing the names at him, anyway? Just curious….

By robdawg06

June 18, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

Say Leo, so you’re so great why is Baltimore’s era worst in the A.L. then ?

It goes right back to the old saying “You get what you pay for” with the Braves bullpen. You buy a used car and sooner or later the wheels fall of,the battery dies,the starter won’t start,the alternator dies,etc. Same with counting on cheap relievers to do the job in the bullpen. Eventually they revert to the pitching that made them jorneymen in the first place…

By Hal

June 19, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

I Have an idea ,lets go in one of those sunday afternoon beer leagues where they only play 7 innings!! that wAy our pen wont be over matched and it will give JS a chance to “restructure” our bullpen i guess there wAs not time for this task from Oct to March ,something about wring a book .Prioritys being what they are im sure he will get around to finding some arms for the pen after his busy “sighning” season ends

By Todd A

June 19, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this

I guess Chad Paranto won’t be our next closer?

By ConyersDawg

June 19, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this

What’s the deal with Thorman. Wilson deserves the 3rd spot not the kid called up!

By robdawg06

June 19, 2006 12:19 AM | Link to this

Man, I never thought this team was this bad. I thought it was just a minor slump. But with not a sole in the bulppen that can get 3 outs consistently, this losing with continue at a rapid pace. As I said earlier, I just wonder if they will win another game in June ? I hate not being able to say anything positive about the team. I guess the offense did good. Then the bullpen reared its ugly head as usual…

By Todd A

June 19, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this

This team still has to win 4 more games this month in order for the Braves to tie for worst month(7 wins)in Atlanta franchise history.With this pen,4 wins in two weeks looks impossible.

By Todd A

June 19, 2006 12:29 AM | Link to this

Western Kentucky can’t get here fast enough.

By Eric C.

June 19, 2006 12:34 AM | Link to this

Just when you think it can’t get any worse… how bad can this team be? The icing on the cake was Francouer’s curtain call…what a foolish move. Congratulations go to those SOBs at Time Warner.

By Head Coach

June 19, 2006 12:39 AM | Link to this

I told you it was going to get worse and once again I’m right.

By hoho

June 19, 2006 12:46 AM | Link to this

dang coach, you sure were right. what’ll we do now coach?

By Robert Disenchanted

June 19, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

Het lay off Western Kentucky. This is the same school which won 1_A championship 4 years ago, so they do know how to win. I believe Georgia has a hard time stopping the run and some of your suspended players for the first 2 games play on defense. If I was Georgia I would not overlook Western Kentucky and focus on South Carolina. Western went to mighty Michigan last year and played them tough. You wil be making a big mistake if you overlook Western, just ask Denis Felton if ther are not competetive.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

And the hits just keep on coming…

By bumming in the valley

June 19, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this

Two whammies in a row-first the bravos blow it then the mavericks lose. Man what a night! I didn’t think it could happen that we manage to get Ortiz and Ramirez out but can’t get one stinkin out! I’d rather Smoltz lose the game his damn self than see those minor league all-stars sell the win. I demand the bull pen start repaying the fans money we paid to see them blow games. That will be the only way to leave out of Turner Stadium without having the urge to hurl.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2006 01:23 AM | Link to this

Todd A, you’re giving them too much credit. Braves have won only two games in June (2-15), not three, and need to win SIX more games to avoid the worst month in Atlanta history, unless you’re counting 4-17 and 4-13 Aprils.

In any full month (or anything more than 22 games), their worst record was 7-19 in July 1986.

If they win only half of their remaining 10 games this month, they’d be 7-22. Need to win six to be 8-19.

And on that note, I think I’ll throw my computer onto the field below as the cleanup crew goes about their business.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2006 01:29 AM | Link to this

OK, my math was nearly as flawed as the Braves’ bullpen. If they win half of their remaining 10 games in June, they’d be 7-19, not 7-22.

But I was right about needing six of 10 to finish 8-19 and avoid worst full-month record in Atlanta Braves history.

Now, I’ll toss the laptop out of the pressbox and see if I can reach the crusty layer of lamentation forming on the field….look out beloooowwwwwww!!!!!

By micah

June 19, 2006 01:29 AM | Link to this

Did I hear correctly that Schuerholz is going to wait until the deadline to see how things shake out or was that Peter Gammons making up garbage again? If he’s really doing that, he’s gone mad. We will be so far out of it that the only feasible option will be a fire sale. Tonight’s loss was just unbelievable. Get a 2-run lead going into the 8th, Manny and Ortiz make all three outs, and they score 6 runs. And this is after Smoltz throws like 130 pitches to avoid just that. Make no mistake, the Red Sox pen isn’t great, either, aside from Papelbon, but they’re at least inconsistent and show occasional acceptable mediocrity. Ours just consistently blows. It’s like the 2005 Red Sox pen, except they mostly made up for that by having an offense that could score 950 runs in a season. Ours is dead men walking. And watching Schuerholz sitting calmly in his box watching this horror show made me so angry. Do something! Either give up and build toward next year or don’t, but show some life!

How much longer is Schuerholz going to be running things? Can we steal Jed Hoyer from the Red Sox before they leave the hotel and season him in a meat locker for 2 years?

By jon

June 19, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

Ya know…we’re all making this a lot harder and complicated than it should be! First off, lets quit talking about Crawford and Lee. Unless it’s Babe Ruth (because he was a good pitcher) getting another bat in the lineup should be the least of our worries. I think it’s insane to talk about trading for another bat after watching “the meltdown” tonight. That was just nonsense. Closer is top priorty RIGHT NOW! Don’t make a freaking trade until we can get someone to pitch the 9th. I’m so sick of this! It’s plain and simple, trade Giles for relief help…put Betemet at 2nd. Keep Thormon in left or first and freaking get someone in the bullpen that can pitch. Why didn’t Stockmon or whoever he is pitch. For heaven sakes, he’s at least a new face out there. Boston can’t break out into laughter quite yet because they hadn’t seen him yet. Please get someone worth a crap in the bullpen JS!

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

Please shoot me for still being here in the pressbox, and for not seeing my typo AGAIN until after I hit send, and for it taking several minutes to download this massive weekend-edition blog while I wait to fix ONE MORE TYPO.

Of the last freakin’ time: They win five of their remainining 10 in June, they’d be 7-20 for the month. Not 7-22, not 7-19. And it’d be the worst full month in Atlanta Braves history.

OK, that’s it. I’m fried. Please don’t pull out in front of me on my drive home, for I will not have the reflexes to avoid plowing into you.

later

By jon

June 19, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this

DOB I love reading your blogs man..but that lineup is more like a Fantasy team lineup..lets get realistic man..lord forbid JS make trades like that with our young talent. Not that I totally despise him for it….I like holding on to them too, but we def need to address the bullpen help….this is what I recommend for the rest of the year.

1. Betemit
2. Renteria
3. C. Jones
4. A. Jones
5. McCann
6. Francouer
7. Thorman
8. LaRoache

9. Pitcer

10. Smoltz

11. Hudson
12. James
13. Davies (when he returns)
14. Ramirez

Closer-trade Giles or Stockmon Setup-trade Giles or Stockmon

As far as the rest of the bullpen…welcome to hell!

Thats my recommendation for the rest of the year….we shouldnt panic and trade our young talent away. I feel we still have a good team..just awful bullpen and bottom 3 in rotation…get some new faces in and we may can make some noise. Also, trade Sosa or Thomson and move the other to the bullpen. I think I would rather keep Sosa…but thats just me

what you think DOB?

man it was rough when Lowell got that double…the Boston fans were all in our face.

By Leo Mazzone

June 19, 2006 02:06 AM | Link to this

Robdawg, the first year I became Atlanta’s pitching coach (1990) we ended up with an ERA of 4.58. It takes at least a season before pitchers who have been exposed to worse coaching all their lives can adjust to my demanding but effective methods. Of course, if they can’t live up to my high standards, they can just let me walk and end up with the worst staff in their league, just like the Braves did.

The Braves have relied on bargain-basement pitchers coming through for years now, thanks to me. Remember Darren Holmes? Chris Hammond? John Burkett? Kerry Ligtenberg? Rudy Seanez? Alan Embree? All journeymen with mediocre careers who I made into solid, reliable pitchers. I could have done the same with Villarreal, McBride, Paronto, Ray, and even Reitsma if I wasn’t run out of town. Oh well, the ATL’s loss is Baltimore’s gain. Erik Bedard, AL Cy Young 2007, write it down because I told you first!

By teoa

June 19, 2006 02:17 AM | Link to this

Well, Time Warner’s transformation of the Braves from Microsoft to Enron is officially complete. It’s too bad that greats like John Smoltz and Chipper Jones (formerly great in Chipper’s case) are being forced to suffer through the scam. The message was sent loud and clear in the spring that this organization no longer cares about winning. You let the best pitching coach in history walk and replace him with a cheap rookie coach, you spend no money on the bullpen and put together a staff of no-name journeymen and has-beens, you go into the season with no closer and don’t make a move for a closer 70 games into the season…what do you expect? The house of cards is falling down.

This franchise is all about spending the minimum amount of money possible to maintain the illusion of going after a championship. It’s all a con. Anyone who goes to a Braves game now is being scammed. All you’re doing is increasing the value of Time Warner stocks, and for what? So they can turn those stocks over to Colorado for maximum value? What’s the point? Like I said, it’s a shame that a Hall of Famer like John Smoltz continues to give everything he has to this team while the organization doesn’t care enough to add a couple of pitchers to hold a lead for him for 2 innings. And in my opinion, Chipper should have a case for a lawsuit because he obviously stood to lose more than anyone by falling for the scam. Chipper sacrificed millions of dollars to open salary for management to fill some holes, and Time Warner took those savings and laughed all the way to the bank. It’s really a sad way for these guys to have to end their careers. I will continue to torture myself by watching Braves games on TV, but I will not do anything that will put money into the pockets of this greedy corporation. At least at this point, no one should have to suffer through the con unwillingly.

By Chop Chop

June 19, 2006 02:34 AM | Link to this

Leo,

You’re probably the reason the Braves choked in the postseason, too.

Hahahaha.

The Braves won’t be good enough to test that theory, but since you can’t test your “Mazzone would have made all the difference” theory, mine is just as valid.

Anyway, I happen to believe that Mazzone left of his own freewill. The Braves didn’t offer him enough money, of course, but I think he had his mind made up to go somewhere else. It’s easy to forget that the Yankees and Orioles both wanted him. He turned down the Yankees (and a lot more money, I’m sure) to join his best friend’s staff in Baltimore. He had nothing left to prove in Atlanta and leaped at the chance for a new challenge.

Never forget that Leo also pieced together that God-awful bullpen last year.

Schuerholz’s luck ran out…and so did Leo’s.

Accept it and move on.

By jon

June 19, 2006 02:38 AM | Link to this

i heard baltimore is not happy with Leo! So maybe Leo the great aint as great as some of you think

By Jimbo

June 19, 2006 02:58 AM | Link to this

What a tantilizing loss….After striking out Big Poopy and Manny…they implode. This one takes the cake.

By daxxed

June 19, 2006 04:07 AM | Link to this

Well, I aid it, we would be in lat before the Allstar break. Everyone is blaming everyone except for the right person. If we would have had a decent closer then we would not be in this mess. Why did not Smoltz step up and volunteer to be closer again. This hip would still be afloat and once again a veteran would have stepped up and saved the day. So now I read where you say clean house. Why didn’t Mike Hampton offer to change his contract just for this year he wa hurt so we could have had more funds to get the help we needed. Loyalty has sunk this ship. There is a whole that can not be plugged now. TW, JS and BC have made sure it is over. No major moves off season, no major moves during season. But then again, who wuold want to trade for a last place teams players. No the bottoom is where we will be at the end of the year. It was a good run, 14 titles but only one World Series. My prediction, the Braves will end the season 24 games back.

By Head Coach

June 19, 2006 04:26 AM | Link to this

I have good news , there is nowhere left to go but up. Last place is as bad as it gets. It all starts and stops with Bobby Cox , he is the problem and the solution. I have the feeling that Pendleton and McDowell are having difficulty doing their jobs because of the Managing style of Bobby Cox. He runs a tight ship and if you take a closer look at the decision making process during the games , Cox makes all the calls. What I’m trying to say is this. Cox tells them when , where and how high to jump. Again ,he is the problem and the solution. Personally , I believe its time for a massive fire sale , but knowing John Schuerholz he is going to wait and see where this team goes over the course of the next six weeks and if they are still in last place , believe you me , he will pull the trigger and demolish this team along salary lines. The closer we get too july 31st , the more desperate contenders will be and then he will try to get maximum value for the players he chooses to trade. I must correct a comment I made about trading Mike Hampton. He is untouchable , anyone on the DL cannot be traded ,released , demoted or moved at all , ever. Again , WE HAVE BOTTOMED OUT , it cant get any worse , this team isnt really this bad , it just seems that way because everything that can go wrong has gone wrong and sooner or later they will start winning a few games. The only question is , will it be enough to keep this team from being ripped apart on the trading block ?

By Bill Clyde

June 19, 2006 05:21 AM | Link to this

They’ve lost 7 in a row with no sign of even bottoming-out; they can’t maintain positive momentum for 2 consecutive innings yet, let alone 2 consecutive games. At this point, I’m for a mini fire-sale, as the wigwam’s spring cleaning is overdue (clearly the veteran clubhouse presence is doing nothing to cauterize the wound, and the coaching seems complacent, distracted, or just plain ineffectual). The old-guard consecutive-division-title streak is too much of an albatross to be concerned with, and Schuerholz’s only position of strength as the trade deadline nears will be as a seller. With that in mind, I suggest trading Chipper, Andruw (my favorite Brave, but Peter Gammons made an astute point on last night’s ESPN telecast: Andruw is an OLD 29, having played in nearly every game since he became a regular in 1997; his trade value will likely never be any higher again, as he still has some peak playing years left), Hudson, and Giles (hang on to Smoltzie because with an $8 million option for next year he’ll be cheap, and the Braves need him to instruct and help stabilize the young pitching talent they should focus on getting in trades).
I’d love to see this lineup given a chance to compete for the rest of the year:

1. Langerhans CF
2. Renteria SS
3. McCann C
4. Thorman LF
5. Francoeur RF
6. Betemit 3B
7. LaRoche 1B
8. 2B (acquired via trade)

That lineup may seem strange given some of the players’ recent performances, but Langerhans seems like he could be a Steve Finley-type, LaRoche something of a poor man’s Mark Grace, McCann is easily our best all-around hitter and the logical heir to Chipper’s number 3 spot, and the only reason I’ve placed Betemit below Francoeur is to break up the slew of lefties; on days McCann didn’t catch, I’d bat Betemit 3rd…and on days Jon Miller broadcasted Braves games for ESPN, I’d have him tasered every time he said “beta-meat”).
One of the worst blows to future development has already occurred in losing Dayton Moore to the Royals; he was steeped in The Braves Way, and clearly hungry to prove himself. Now, we not only need to find the GM to construct our next run of division titles, but the next manager, too. Although he’s never been involved in the Braves organization, I’d love to see Mark Grace given the chance to manage, or if interested and available, at least be a bench coach, hitting coach, something. He was a gamer’s gamer, and no way would any of the current loafers have escaped his attention during this losing streak.

By THL

June 19, 2006 07:14 AM | Link to this

If Wilson Betemit can play first, put him there and get rid of Roach. Getting rid of that hole in the lineup would be a great start. Giles needs to go back to the way he used to approach at-bats. I think hitting .300 and having a ton of doubles would be adequate at the top of the order. I don’t buy the notion that you can only win with a small fast guy who slaps the ball around. If you have someone in like Giles, it would be much better to have him hit the way he always in the 2-spot rather than try to change his whole philosophy. Seriously, how many times does the leadoff guy actually lead off an inning, 1 or 2 usually?

By Johnny Taco

June 19, 2006 07:34 AM | Link to this

Trade Mike Hampton?

After being off a year & coming off major arm surgery, what could you get for him?

The Braves are on the hook for $30 million total in 2007-08, and no, insurance is not picking up the tab for those two years !

Another brilliant Schuerholz move! Hampton was damaged goods when the Braves got him. More payroll tied up in a player not producing, just like Chipper Jones.

By Johnny Taco

June 19, 2006 07:35 AM | Link to this

Trade Mike Hampton?

After being off a year & coming off major arm surgery, what could you get for him?

The Braves are on the hook for $30 million total in 2007-08, and no, insurance is not picking up the tab for those two years !

Another brilliant Schuerholz move! Hampton was damaged goods when the Braves got him. More payroll tied up in a player not producing, just like Chipper Jones.

By Gayle Abbott

June 19, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

The beginning of the end was when Smoltz demanded out of the bullpen and the role of closer has been a revolving door ever since. If any one person is responsible for the Braves’ collapse, it is Smoltz. And now he says he might be traded. Since he is a 10-5 guy and can veto any trade, sounds like this selfish guy wants off the ship that he steered into the iceberg.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

Wow, my head’s spinning at some of these absurd suggestions (not all of them; several of you have cogent points, but many others … nothing more than rantings of emotional, p.o.’d fans. I get it, but you can’t run an organization on emotional rants. Not the way it’s done.

I’m getting tired of pointing out that Chipper and Smoltz are 10-and-5 guys who have to approve any trade, and Chipper is owed $11 mill each of next two seasons (2007-08) with a vesting option worth potentially between $8 mill and $11 mill in 2009, and unless a team picks up entire salary the Braves would never trade him, I’m certain.

Sorry, but it’s numbing my brain to keep answering the same questions, so please don’t feel offended if I don’t reply to every one of your suggestions.

I did want to respond to this suggested lineup, however, which I found to be quite possibly the most illogical post of the millenium (excluding Nathan, SJA or Jamie from Richmond gems):

This from Bill Clyde, whose top of the order read:

1. Langerhans CF

2. Renteria SS

3. McCann C

4. Thorman LF

Renteria and McCann, I have no disagreement with, though McCann may be a bit slow to have in the No. 3 hole.

What had me shaking my head, however, was a .249 avg/.338 OBP guy seeming like the best option for leadoff, and a player who has one major league game and no major league hits being installed as the cleanup hitter.

Wow. I’m speechless.

By Lions Fan

June 19, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Yeah, the Braves are looking like the Braves of old lately, but trading off the entire team isn’t going to help either. Also, Atlanta has the worst fans i have ever seen. One horrible month and the fans are non-stop whining about how bad the Braves are and how they (these fat loser fans) know about how to turn the team around. Give me a break. The Braves will turn it around by the all star break and with some luck maybe get a Wild Card. If not, so what, its just sports and there will always be next year. Try being a Lions Fan you whiners.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2006 12:25 PM | Link to this

Finally an Off Day at home. I hope these guys are spending it well. Resting, reflecting. Chipping line drive singles over the first baseman’s head… again and again and again until they can do it in their sleep. This bullpen blows. I’m surprised Stockman wasn’t called on. But maybe after utterly destroying Devine, Cox is trying to be a little more cautious with the young talent he calls on.

If this team has any knowledge of history. Of Braves History. They will realize that this is where they get going. They are in last place. They have played worse then everyone. Now it is time to get to first. I’m hanging on by my finger nails here. I can’t believe how many L’s I’ve had to put up on the schedule.

At least the offense scored 7 runs. That was a bit of an improvement. The numbers still didn’t look good. Lots of choking in the clutch, striking out, and the modern day norm. But 7 runs is nice to see. I’m looking forward to watching Thorman play. I hope he calms down and starts approaching the plate like he did in the minors.

GO BRAVES!! You can’t lose tonight!

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

This is only our second home off day of the season. That’s crazy!

By Joe C.

June 19, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

LOL Braves just need to tear it down and rebuild…trade Hudson to the Mets for low priced Victor Diaz…maybe toss in Zambrano as well lol

By William P. Fallin

June 19, 2006 01:32 PM | Link to this

Just thought I’d share this with all of you. It really is over and time to look to the future. Heads up and try to smile, it will hurt less.

WILLIAM P. FALLIN Columnist Douglas, GA Enterprise Natchitoches, LA Times Camden County, GA Courier

A HUMAN TRAGEDY

A double tragedy unfolded last week in an Atlanta courtroom. Judge J. Johnson Snodgrass was trying to settle the custody problem of a ten year old boy after his parents had been convicted of beating him unmercifully. The judge suggested he live with an aunt but the boy said his aunt had beaten him worse than his parents.

Judge Snodgrass got the same story about his grandparents and after deciding he was facing a classic case of family dysfunction he took the unusual step of asking the boy whom he wanted for a legal guardian. Without hesitation the boy replied, “the Atlanta Braves, judge ‘cause everybody knows they ain’t gonna beat nobody.”

(Note: Story stolen from the fellow who sent it to me.)

And that about clarifies the function and fate of the hapless Braves of 2006. No young fans and few older ones can remember a team that has played worse than the Braves this year.

If you are a baseball fan you know about which I write and if you are not then I’ll tell you in a few paragraphs. For fourteen CONSECUTIVE years the Braves have won the championship of the Eastern Division of the National Baseball League. That is better than even the famed New York Yankees have ever done. As a matter of fact that is better than any team in any professional sport in the history of the United States have ever done.

General Manager John Scheurholz and field manager Bobby Cox have been lionized for their efforts. Both are frequently mentioned as almost surefire candidates for the baseball Hall of Fame.

So, what happened? No one and I mean NO ONE can figure it out – for sure. But looking back we can spot a few things that were obviously overlooked. (Note: hindsight is still 20/20.)

The Braves opened the season with more starting pitchers than they needed (or so they thought). They actually tried to trade John Thomson until about three days before opening day. One of their other starters came down with an injury and they were glad they had not made the trade, another mistake.

They forgot to trade for or bring up from their farm system any relief pitchers who could get anyone out. For a closer they chose to go with a fellow (Chris Reitsma) who was a failure in 2005. Usually failure is a pretty good predictor of the future but they chose to ignore that.

They also chose not to pay pitching coach Leo Mazzone the extra $250,000 Baltimore offered him. Mazzone had coached all those staffs through those fourteen years of winning but the Braves believed they could do without him. After all many of the pitchers didn’t like him anyway for his autocratic ways …. otherwise known for forcing onto his pitchers what was needed to win such as staying in condition and learning how to bunt. (Note: $250,000 is $100,000 less than the rawest rookie is paid.)

And they decided to stick with their batting coach, ever-popular Terry Pendleton. Terry had been the league’s most valuable player for the Braves early in the famed win streak but that does not make him a good teacher.

And they allowed their young right fielder to go off and play in “exhibition” games (WBC) instead of staying where he could possibly learn a bit more about where the strike zone is located.

They started with a 39 year old right hand batting first baseman (Brian Jordan) who had never played first base before and a left handed hitting first baseman who was going into his second full year and was a perennial .260 hitter. Their only bright lights have been a solid rookie catcher, Brian McCann, Shortstop Edgar Renteria and to a lesser degree, centerfielder Andruw Jones and third baseman Chipper Jones.

Opening day came and everything got worse. The Jones boys played below par, first base was a disaster, second baseman Marcus Giles slipped badly, right fielder, Francoeur is hitting .250 and left fielder, Langerhans is hitting even less.

You can’t win championships with only 25% of your position players performing at major league levels. What you get is falling from first to last in one fell swoop. And that is where the Braves find themselves as I write.

Can the Braves fix their problems? No, not this year but they may be able to fix them before March 2007 if they can find other general managers dumb enough to trade for their non-performers. We’ll have to wait and see.

Next week we’ll return to the problems of the world but this week, the Atlanta Braves are the most serious topic for hundreds of thousands of fans who have followed them over the years.

By Biff Pocaroba

June 19, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

I heard Peter Gammons last night mention that Hampton was coming along nicely, but can’t play for insurance purposes.

Could you elaborate?

By ipfreely

June 19, 2006 08:40 PM | Link to this

A lot of people on here keep saying to trade Chipper and Andruw to free up salary,well that won’t work because both Chipper and Andruw are 10/5 players,that means they have 10 yrs experience and the last 5 with the same team so they have a right as 10/5 players to veto any trade.also the same applies to John Smoltz,he too is a 10/5 player.the problem is not Smoltz,Chipper or Andruw,the problem is with management.especially with upper level management.John S can’t do anything without upper level management’s approval especially when it comes to money,he has a budget to go by.The Braves need to get rid of some of the dead wood it has such as Jordan,Pratt and Remlinger,Thomson.Then move Sosa to the bullpen and call up the Youngsters down on the farm such as Chuck James,Kevin Barry,Will Startup,keep Paronto,Stockman,McBride,and Sosa in the pen and continue to use Ken Ray as the closer and designate Reitsma for assignment along with the afore mentioned veterans,trade Marcus and Salty for a Leadoff hitter such as Carl Crawford or Joey Gathright and make Wilson Betemit the everyday 2nd baseman,then after that Fire Bobby and all his coaching staff and bring in a new manager and let him bring his own coaching staff.Then after that fire John S because it is time for him to go also.Time for Frank Wren to step forward as the GM.

By brian

June 20, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this

I noticed that in the article today on no fire sale, no one mentioned that Giles was not going to be traded. I bet he is actively shopped for a reliever. ? Wainewright in St. Louis I hope. He would be a great anchor man and then possibly acquiring Wickman for a mid level prospect. I wish the Braves could swing a Thomson for Cordero or Sosa for Cordero trade with Texas.

I can’t believe someone would suggest a lineup without Chipper and Andruw, especially without another top bat in the lineup to replace them. If we traded Andruw and Chipper (which we obviously won’t), I would hope that we could at least address the hole in LF and leadoff hitter.

By Bill Clyde

June 20, 2006 03:10 AM | Link to this

Thanks for half-@$$edly nit-picking my post, DOB; while I admit I was off the original topic you posted at 2:35 pm 6/16/06, that of making moves for the wild card, by the time I made my post I was tired of hearing Don Meredith and Fat Lady warm up for their duet. So my topic, which I thought was apparent from all that other typing I did before and after the lineup suggestion, was who I’d like to see given a chance to compete for the remainder of the year. I think Langerhans, given a chance to compete without the pressure of an organization in a tailspin (assuming the fire sale I and others are suggesting, they would’ve bottomed out and started clawing back up for a run next year) could be a good on-base guy, certainly more likely to work a walk than Francoeur, but your point is taken; that was a late-night flight of the imagination. And, you have a problem with McCann being a bit slow for the number 3 spot, but not Chipper “I have a stick up my backside just like a mannequin” Jones? And just to pre-empt any sob story of how many injuries ol’ aches and pains is dealing with, he’s ALWAYS run like that. Further, Thorman, in my situation, would be a starting cleanup hitter for a team in a year with a high learning curve, (“rebuilding” as some call it, although I think with the assembled talent plus what was received in trade it could hardly be likened to the tasks-at-hand in Kansas City, Pittsburgh, et al.) and he clearly has more power potential than the other Baby Braves (I leave it up to you, Carnac, to ponder who they may acquire in trade that would be better), plus what the hell is the difference in a rookie batting cleanup, and batting 3rd for his first game, as he has already done? Is 3rd not arguably a slot for the teams’ best overall hitter? Yes, it’s frustration, and no I AM NOT QUALIFIED TO RUN A MAJOR LEAGUE TEAM. Engrave that on Stone Mountain, if it makes you happy! It’s just a fricken blog, man, this is what many fans do for fun, and I should have made it clear in my post that what I am most wanting out of a new-blood lineup is that fun of watching the game again. I’ve been a Braves fan since 1983, and this team has been progressively less fun to watch since the first round loss to the Cardinals in 2000. I, for one, am tired of the Chipper Jones quiet businesslike approach and the Braves vanilla veneer. I understand that those elements have had as much to do with the 14-year streak as anything else, but I want the excitement of seeing the new kids learn to win it all again. I remember Glavine coming up and having absolutely no faith in him and wondering if the Braves were ever going to turn it around if he was supposed to be the future, and how poorly he did in the All-Star game, etc. And now look where he is…

By dadgum

June 20, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

Giles - 2nd (insert Betemit after trade) Renteria - SS C.Jones - 3rd A.Jones - CF McCann - C Francour - RF Thorman - LF LaRoche - 1st Smoltz - P (or whomever pitches)

I post the above lineup only as a reference for my following comments. It amazes me at the limited baseball knowledge that many of you posters possess. Although I know you mean well please take a look at the names on the lineup and tell me where you are going to improve this team. The lineup is damn good. Sure they have their bad offensive games but let’s not forget from whence we came. It would simply be better just to root hard for the home team because offensive help ain’t just around the corner.

Reference above, I firmly believe the Braves are going to go on a run and make a drive for the wild card. Hey, they may not overtake the Mets but the Braves deserve a positive spin in the midst of this slump. Something they deserve after winning 14 straight division titles. I know, 1 world series, but we won’t go there on this post as it would take too long.

The ESPN boys indicated the other day that the Braves simply don’t have the talent to compete with the Mets. Offensively they perhaps do but our pitching is obviously the kicker. Marcus Giles is our most expendable player that could bring something in return. Look for him to be traded along with a top prospect for starting pitching. Also I see Diaz being traded as well now that Thorman is in Atlanta. It could be Langerhans but the Braves value his defense and offense too much. Anyway one of those two are gone for bullpen help. JS has already told the media that players will be exiting but when is the question. Teams are not hitting the panic button just yet so the Braves are going to have to tred water for a couple of weeks while teams assess their chances.

Oh, to Bill Clyde, I agree that it is fun to watch new blood evolve into winners and you may just get that chance but don’t bash Chipper by saying you are tired of his “business like approach” then in the same breath say that you admire how he has evolved. Doesn’t make sense. Chipper will retire as an Atlanta Brave. Andruw will not. In fact, I feel that in 2007/2008 Andruw will be on another team. His contract is up next year and my guess is the Braves won’t be able to meet the market demand for his services. Bobby and John will both be leaving as well. I love Andruw and he is simply the best defensive CF I have ever seen and yes that includes Mays and yes I did see him play. If the Braves want to really improve as a total team they may want to look at trading Andruw if they determine that they are sellers and not buyers prior to the trade deadline. I am not advocating trading Andruw only that it is worth considering as an option but not if they are trying to make the playoffs at that point.

Take a look again at the above lineup and I doubt you come up with many teams that have that potent a lineup and defense. The fact that our starting pitching is 15th out of 16 and bullpen is 16th in the NL says it all. Sure there are some other little kinks so not all the blame goes to the pitching but most does. Don’t forget the injuries to our pitching either.

GO BRAVES!!!!

By jai

June 20, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this

Trade GILEY,ReeksMa,Sosie and what the hell just trade the entire team excpet for Smoltz. But please trade Giles first because he really sucks!

By jai

June 20, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

Trade GILEY,ReeksMa,Sosie and what the hell just trade the entire team except for Smoltz. But please trade Giles first because he really sucks!

By brownstar

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

DOB, I respect you for what you predicted this spring. This is the first time I’ve visited this site and frankly I’m apalled. I live in OHIO. My grandmother took me to my first baseball game in Atlanta in 85 and I’ve been a fan ever since. I have to put up with Indians and Pirates fans constantly knocking us, (who we’ve beaten religously by the way) and Yankees fans who’ve beaten us the same. I know we’re having a bad year but really, what’s one year when you’ve been a winner for so long? You should all take some time a think about what a true fan acts like. I think most of you will be ashamed of yourselves.

By brownstar

June 21, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

What has happened to all the fans down there anyway? Empty seats, hardly any sell outs, and worst of all, OPPOSING FANS CHEERING LOUDER!!!!!!!! WHAT’S THE MATTER WITH YOU?!?!?! Oh yeah I forgot that’s called front runners or fair weather fans. Gotta go with who’s good right? You suck.