Braves

By gobraves06

June 22, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

These are sad days for the Braves. Not only are they in last place, but one of their key players seems to be past his prime. I’m pretty sure that Chipper will remain with the Braves, though. I only hope he can once again become a productive player.

By Gran Jen

June 22, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

Quit picking on Chipper! I’d like to see who among us could get up every day and go to a physically demanding job with the injuries he has and perform half as well! I would whine and cry every day about how it’s just not fair! Chipper’s not going to be right all year. You can’t hit like he does without your legs! But he goes out there every day and tries, and doesn’t complain. If Bobby thinks he’s more valuable on the field than sitting in the dugout, that’s what he’s paid to decide! If it was MY job, I’d probably rest him more, and let Wilson play more third, and let Chipper come off the bench, but it’s NOT my job, so I’ll keep watching and cheering, and waiting for the next miracle!

By Ken

June 22, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

I am a Chipper fan, but sadly Mr. Cutwright is correct. You don’t expect these guys to play forever, but I didn’t think Chipper would go out all at once. Hopefully, he will pick it up and have a few more productive streaks before he retires.

By Mike

June 22, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

I think Chipper is still plenty productive, but as he himself said earlier this year, the Braves don’t pay him the big bucks to draw walks and hit singles. He’s looked a bit confused at the plate lately with strike 3 being called and the bat sitting on his shoulder….and when he is able to make contact he rarely drives the ball like we’re used to seeing him do.

By rob

June 22, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

It’s not just one player. Top to bottom, no one is cutting it. No one.

And whatever happened to “One Crazy Summer” Seems like yesterday.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

Bring back greenies!!! That’ll stop this current skid…oh, Bud Selig, do not read this.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

I wonder if something juvenile and “high schoolesque” like someone vandalizing Turner Field would fire the team up? Imagine if they showed up at the park and someone had spray-painted “Mets Rule! Braves Suck! Hank Aaron and Dale Murphy are Gay!” on the centerfield wall.

By Kevin

June 22, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

Chipper needs to move to 1st base, yes I know I will get killed for this statemnt but move him to 1st and Wilson to 3rd full time—trade Giles/LaRoche for Bullpen help or a leadoff hitter. As for 2nd base, Prado can be recalled

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

I doubt Chipper would agree to move to 1st, but he could platoon either with LaRoche or Thorman.

By Not Dr Laura

June 22, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

I think something is really up with Chipper. It’s the “elephant in the room” that no one wants to discuss. Personal life, injuries, unrealized World Series rings, something has taken away his swagger. He’s just not the aggressive player he once was. He’s still making contact, so this is not a Dale Murphy-type free fall. It’s different. The fire has gone out. Everyone can see it.

By Jim Presley

June 22, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s plight reminds me of Dale Murphy, a sudden plunge into mediocrity after several fine seasons, in what should be the prime of his career.

Unfortunately, the Braves owe him some big bucks and they are not getting much in return for this quick-fading star. As for trade potential I think the Braves are stuck with him & his huge salary. Who’d want him? His numbers are atrocious !

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

Perhaps Francoeur being christened the future of the team and the new face of the franchise last season actually bummed Chipper out David Justice stle.

By CoxNeedsToChange

June 22, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox needs to place McCann in the three hole and move Chipper to the fifth spot. He should also move Rent to leadoff and Diaz to the two hole. As for Marcus, let him hit in the seventh spot. This would push LaRoche to the eighth (and don’t even think about playing Pratt… EVER). And let’s hope the move of Sosa will help out.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

style…not stle

By OutBack Jack

June 22, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

The Braves should resign recently released (and former Braves) pitchers Russ Ortiz, Terry Mulholland and Antonio Alfonseco!! That would three “great” additions to a bullpen that already smells like an outhouse.!!!

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

I agree, Chipper is no longer a #3 hitter, but Cox is waaaaay too loyal to drop him to 5 or 6.

By Nick

June 22, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

I think a couple of things have led to Chipper’s production. Injuries and Drug testing…. He has lost pretty much all of his power. He still has a great swing from both sides of the plate. If he can stay healthy, he will hit over .300.

By SCW

June 22, 2006 12:59 PM | Link to this

HAS ANYONE EVER STOPPED TO CONSIDER THAT MAYBE - JUST MAYBE - CHIPPER WAS ON STEROIDS? HIS DECREASE IN PRODUCTION AND INCREASE IN INJURIES STARTED EXACTLY WHEN THE TOUGHER DRUG POLICIES WERE IMPLEMENTED. HIS SWOON IS SYNONYMOUS WOITH THAT OF SAMMY SOSA, BARRY BONDS, ETC. THINK ABOUT IT.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this

Alfonseca, yes (he’s cheap and was effective in 2004). Ortiz, no. He’s too much like the bottom 3 in our rotation…you never know what kind of outing to expect. Mulholland…I don’t think so.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

He does look smaller this season.

By The Truth

June 22, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

Let’s be honest, last year was the first time I’d seen Chipper smile and have fun in quite some time. Now, with the “baby Braves” maturing, Chipper is back to his old self: lolly gagging around, with absolutely no emotion. I used to be a huge Chipper fan, but wouldn’t be upset at all now to see him go. Although he is still wonderful defensively, some of his recent at-bats have been downright pathetic and uncharacteristic. My feeling on this whole situation is that losing Leo is hurting more than some people want to admit. Leo was the one guy on the coaching staff who wasn’t afraid to get in someone’s face…now, however, we are stuck with a manager and pitching coach who are both “player’s managers” and the lack of discipline is showing day in and day out. As far as I’m concerned, except for McCann, these guys have ZERO plate discipline and Andruw’s lack of hustle in the outfield lately is incredibly obvious. Although we are done for this season, my belief is that Sosa AND Smoltz (haha, they said he would take it easy this season yet he is throwing 120+ pitches a game) need to be in the bullpen and put Chuck James and Davies (when he gets healthy) in the rotation. Our farm system is still deep, but if the Marlins are having their great run with a bunch of rookies, then we sure as heck should be in second place with the team we have. I never thought I would say this, but I really think it is about time for the Braves to move on…including Chipper and maybe even Bobby.

By Pantherssuck

June 22, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

Physically demanding? How? Because he has to get up 162 days of the year to play a game that pays him $10 million? Now, Cal Ripken was different, he played every game for every year from 1982-1996 with injuries worse than Chipper’s and still produced great numbers…THAT was impressive! Come on, you act like this is football, which any hit can ruin a season or career. Brett Favre is another impressive one in this regard. Playing QB for every single game for 14 straight years, with some very severe injuries AND perform at a high level (minus 2005) is impressive. Yes, Chipper tries hard but if he’s slumping, he might want to sit for the better of the team.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

At the All-Star break they should allow the last-place teams in each division to load up on greenies, HGH, and other steroids for the rest of the season. They should also use alluminum (sp?) bats. That would make things interesting.

By BOB C

June 22, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

Hey CoxNeedstoChange. Any chance we could get you a uniform and in the dugout tonight? Solid ideas on the order! I bet you would even try to move a runner over with a bunt once in awhile. Must admit, Cox’s idea to move Sosa to late in the game fascinates me - if he can harness his stuff - which is probably among the top 10 in the NL.

By The Truth

June 22, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

And yes, Chipper does look smaller this season…there isn’t anyone who can refute that.

By Rob C

June 22, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this

I can refute it: Chipper doesn’t look smaller this year.

Without any actual evidence or pictures I just don’t understand why people would say he does. To me he looks the same, just older and slower.

By Matt

June 22, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

I really wish people would calm down. The Braves have always been a second half team. If at the end of July we still are winning, then I say lets dump Giles and AJones, only because of free agency. I think this Sosa move will shake the team up. I would love to see Diaz playing ALOT more and Betemit switching up playing 2nd, SS, and 3rd 3 out of 4 days. That way all the infielders play 3 of 4 days. Thorman, I think this kid is going to be huge. Our system is still loaded, so we can always dump some players for some bullpen, but not on just anybody though. Dang it, why are we pursuing a trade for Keith Foulke. HELLO. Sosa, Thomson, Ray in the pen isn’t that bad. If we could only get Foulke who isn’t getting used!!!!!

By TennesseePaul

June 22, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

Tonight is the night folks. We will win tonight and break out of this slump. Then we’ll roll into Tampa and sweep them. The Yankees will fall as well and go into a 15 game lossing streak. The term “fire sale” will be whispered about the Yankees, but no real takers will show up. It’s going to be great.

GO BRAVES

By ugadawg

June 22, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

Everybody said Griffey was done a couple seasons ago, and look at his comeback last year. Just as soon as the Braves were to let Chipper go, he’d have another 30 HR, 100 RBI season. I say they need to find a way to light a fire under him.

And how in the world does anyone think you can just “move” a player to first. It’s not an easy position to play, and many transplanted players have proven that.

Maybe Chipper was on ‘roids at one point. Remember when he bulked up so much in the offseason after he fathered the illegitimate child? Regardless, ‘roids are not what made Chipper great when he first came up. It was a strong desire and really hard work ethic. I just hope he can regain that somehow.

But you can’t, like someone said, try to blame the Braves’ woeful slide on any one area. It’s not just the bullpen or any one player. It’s a team effort, with the exception of McCann who seems to be the only one that cares.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

I’m watching the replay of last night’s game on Turner South, and it occurs to me that Torborg might actually be the worst announcer of all-time…Pacoriek and Rathmun are tied for 2nd.

By Matt

June 22, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

The Braves are a second half team so I wish you people would relax. We have seen some crazy things happen in baseball. Remember who led the East last year in June, the Nationals. With Sosa, Ray and possibly Thomson in the pen, that makes us alot better fast. Sosa is good to 2 innings and Thomson, I believe, has the mentality of a reliever. He is a horse. The only thing I wish is that we would make some moves, trade Giles, Salty to get Keith Foulke. He is a proven closer, I think pretty young and he isn’t being used. I just don’t want to see a trade for someone who is iffy. We need a stud as closer, an average closer nevers works in Atlanta. Maybe Thomson or Sosa could do it. That Stockton kid looked pretty good to me, just nervous. What did ya’ll think?

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this

Matt, where did you hear the Foulke rumor?

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Remember the 2004 Braves? They were sh-it until the end of June. They were 40-14 in July and August.

By KneeJerk

June 22, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this

Quit already with our “depth” in the minors. We don’t have many outstanding prospects left. We have more Brad Komminsks and David Nieds than Chipper Joneses and Steve Averys

By Brent

June 22, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this

I guess you “move” Chipper to first the same way that you “move” Brian Jordan to first.

I can’t see how it can be any worse, and it allows you to put a better bat in the line-up.

By rowland

June 22, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

Foulke is 33 and on the DL with elbow tendinitis (and a 5.63 ERA). He’ll fit right in.

By Matt

June 22, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

I didn’t think the first one posted, sorry about that.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this

Foulke is also making $7 million and reports state that he’s not making much progress returning from his injury.

By KneeJerk

June 22, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this

A sad truth: Many people grew up with Skip and Pete on TV. Across the country people have “grown up” listening to Ernie Harwell, Jack Buck, Harry Caray, Vin Scully, Harry Calas (sp?), the list goes on. Will our kids now have to say that they grew up listening to Bob Rathbun and Jeff Torborg calling games?

By Matt

June 22, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

Its not a rumor, just a thought from me. 33 years old isn’t bad for a pitcher. What’s he on the DL for. 5.63 but usually lower than that. Even with that ERA though, he would still have the best on our team. Just an idea. No rumors. Sorry to make you think that.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

That’s why my family turns on the radio during Braves games. My kids will know about Skip and Pete.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

After the season I wonder if Chip, Joe, or Don might work for FSN. I doubt they would hire Skip or Pete because they would overshadow Rathbun.

By Matt

June 22, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

$7 million. For a decent closer I would hope we would pay it. Its nice to have people find stuff about this guy. I haven’t heard anything about him and just assumed he was rotting away in the bullpen. Does anybody know what his injurying is. Arm, groin, finger. I wonder if he won’t return b/c he can’t close. Just kidding. I thought it was a good idea though. My bad.

By glennbo

June 22, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

What’s up with Guy, callin’ evverybody out like that. If it lights a fire under the Braves, or lowers their ticket prices, I’m all for it.

TennesseePaul, glad you still believe. Hope this expenditure of optimism doesn’t irreprabaly sour your outlook if things don’t pan out. Me, I think this is a wake up call for JS and BC. Writing a book is great whe you RETIRE. And Awards are to be savored after you RETIRE.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

Elbow tendinitis.

By Chris

June 22, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

Anyone realize that just about the time that Rath and Torborg took over on Turner South the Braves went into their skid? Ironic…

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

Landing an established closer is highly unlikely. JS should seek a reliever who could develop into a closer…like Farnsworth.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

I meant like Farnsworth last year…not seek a trade for him this year (too expensive).

By bravesfansince1966

June 22, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

Rath and Torborg are doing as poorly as Chipper! BRING BACK PETE AND ERNIE — MILO COULDN”T HURT EITHER AT THIS POINT! Hey has anyone noticed Chipper doesn’t seem to care anymore? You know why? He has his sights on his ranch in Texas… his mind isn’t on winning… just DOLLARS!

By KneeJerk

June 22, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

I wish I had the luxury of Braves radio. I moved to South Florida 2 years ago.

By nathan

June 22, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this

SWC…..How dare you acuse the “GOLDEN CHILD” of such nonsense!

Actually, I asked the same question on these blogs back in April and got BLASTED!

I’m not accusing, just asking!!

Each day that goes by I have to wonder how far from the truth I was. You could essentially ask the same question of Marcus “I only have warning track power now” Giles.

I won’t go any further than that because I know this will get me RIPPED enough!

By bravesfansince1966

June 22, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this

Would someone at the AJC please set up a BLOG for complaints regarding Rath and Torborg??? We need someone to begin a campaign to rid ourselves of these two BORING announcers.. Its bad enough watching the Braves lose night after night— now we have to listen to these two… Bring back Pete and Skip, and Don!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ugadawg

June 22, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

Brent,

BJ has a 986 fielding percentage, and that’s not counting the numerous misplays that weren’t counted as errors. Do you not remember Caminiti’s switch from third to first? Horrible. LaRoche, on the other hand, has a 992 Fielding percentage, and he’s hitting about the same as Giles.

Giles is the one that they need to sit to get Betemit on the field. There’s absolutely no reason to do a position change in the middle of a season when the obvious solution is looking them straight in the face.

By Brent

June 22, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

ugadawg,

That is my point about Jordan. His defense is terrible. So, even if we put Chipper there, we still have a bad first baseman defensively, maybe, and have Betemit batting (Giles is a better hitter than BJ and LaRoche).

I thought my point was evident by noting that “I can’t see how it can be any worse.”

By Brent

June 22, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this

Also, I’m fine with sitting Giles, too. It’s as obvious to me as it is to you.

Unfortunately, Bobby doesn’t see this.

Chipper to first is an alternative if Bobby is dead-set on playing Giles.

And yes, you really do need spring training to make a change like this.

Still can’t see Chip being worse at first than BJ.

By Gene

June 22, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

Chipper just looks disinterested. On Sunday night, when Francouer hit his homerun, Chipper was the only player who sat on the bench during congratulations. He is not a leader at all and hasn’t been since 1996. I just think it is time to get something for him, but it appears that the Braves are hoping against hope that a miraculous turnaround will occur. I don’t think they have the talent to turn it around.

By Matt

June 22, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

elbow tendinitis, that sucks. good point ghf about developing. DEVINE, where are you. maybe stockton. he’s a gasser. nobody answered me about what they thought of that kid.

By Matt

June 22, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

When Chipper gets hot, which he is due, everybody will be kissing his a$$. Remember the WBC, he was killing the ball. Maybe he isn’t getting pitches b/c nobody in front of him is getting on base. Renti is struggling right now and Giles is very inconsistent. When 1 and 2 start getting on and CJones heats up, watch out.

By Yelling Last Night

June 22, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

I believe Chipper is still bothered by the nagging injuries. Time for Bobby to have him sit every other day and get Betemit in the lineup. Say, about 2 weeks ago didn’t Bobby say he was going to have Betemit play more? I think he’s actually been in the lineup twice since then. Let Chipper get his legs back and maybe he’ll start driving the ball again.

But what is really troubling this team is a lot more than just Chipper’s falling production. Again last night I was yelling at the TV about poor fundamental baseball. Diaz getting picked off for the 3rd out in the inning. (gee, I think the Jays scored their 1st 4 runs after 2 outs). Hudson failing to get a bunt down with runners on 1st & 2nd and nobody out. Those are the kind of things that make for a last place team. Maybe “The Truth” is right, that Leo was the only coach that got in peoples faces and now that he’s gone there is nobody to hold these guys accountable for the poor fundamental plays. Diaz and Hudson should have gotten their a$$ chewed off for those plays, but all we hear is Bobby bemoaning “bad luck” and “he just got a ball up, otherwise he pitched well”. And yes, Bob Rathbun and Jeff Torborg are horrible. Why is Jeff Torborg involved with the Braves? Sadly, the days of the Superstation, Ted & Jane’s Excellent Adventure, Skip & Pete and winning pennants are OVER! Great read about the End of the run is linked on Deadspin.com from yesterday. Interesting insight into how JS has been able to get by with a less talented roster every year since the wildcard came into play and now this cutting back on talent has finally come to roost. Man, I said I’d have to keep this blog name until the Braves won a series but now I just wish they’d win a game.

By nathan

June 22, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

I hope he doen’t heat up too fast. He might burn his skin and miss a few weeks.

By Cox rules

June 22, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s not a leader, looks disinterested, doesn’t care…How do you people know? Just by looking at someone on the bench or their facial expressions? You don’t have to be John Rocker-excited to be a good leader, care, etc. How I wish I could cheer for a team with decent fans that don’t bash their own, don’t stay away from playoff games, etc.

By Gene

June 22, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

OK - How do you know he is a leader? What does Chipper do that you see that indicates that?

By Gene

June 22, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

I guess we should just be thankful and happy that they have won 3 out the last 22. Also, at least the bullpen’s ERA is less than 6! I will try to be a good fan and only focus on the positives. Better get a magnifying glass.

By Matt

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

funny about chipper burning. about chipper not caring, when has any braves ever showed any emotion. same with ajones, all he does is smile. only recently with frenchy, giles and mccann has the braves started showing emotion.
i bleed blue and red and my wife hates me for it. win or lose, i will still be there, or listening, or watching. give them time they will get hot.

By nathan

June 22, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

matt, you are right about the “no emotion” factor. I think the common denominator in the no emotion bench is Cox. That’s his style and the teams relflect that.

Well guess what! All of the Baby Braves (especially the home grown ones) have been watching the stoic faces on the Braves for a LONG time. It seems to me Francoeur and McCann have taken it upon themselves not only as Braves Players but as Braves Fans, to change the exitement and attitude of this drab old bunch. IMO

By Drixie

June 22, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

Chipper is not a leader. Never has been never will be. He has been a very good player for most of his career. He is all about himself. I suspect that the reason he is such a media hound (much like “Red Sock” Schilling) is because he knows media darlings tend to get more HOF votes. I believe Chipper should either be moved to first base or off the team in a trade. His hayseed, me-first attitude is only dragging down the team.

By andy

June 22, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

Flashback to 2000 last series of the year cards v. Braves for homefield advantage. hard hit ball to third. a great thirdbaseman would have made the play. A good thirdbaseman would dive for the ball and try to at least knock it down and keep it on the infield. our mr jones just said ole. braves lost game homefield and three stright to cards in playoffs. I didnt watch another game until last year. THe only reason i can see for larry not to retire is that he has to be getting close to two carreer records: most cliches in post game interviews and most excuses for not doing any better in postseason play. i also wonder if anybody has done the famous barry bonds head size comparison could be interesting

By Matt

June 22, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

can you tell i’m in denial

By TennesseePaul

June 22, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

This losing sucks. But I just can’t believe the season is over. This team isn’t even mathamatically eliminated yet. We just need a good healthy winning streak. We’ve seen them in the past. There was a year we started off 13-0 or something close. One of those runs puts us at .500. One of those runs will cut off about 3 or 4 games from the Mets. That pulls us closer to 10 games out, and that is managable. We still have 9 games left with the Mets and an August Schedule that looks to good to be true. If we just fix the parts that are broken, higher a new hitting coach (Mr. McCann would be a good one) and execute the fundamentals we’ll be back in this thing in no time.

All of this would also put us in a much better position to win it all. Because when we do win this thing this year, it will be because we were hot all the way through the second half and post season. No more of this clinch in August, relax for a month and then try to win it all stuff. It never works.

On that note, if for some nightmarish reason we don’t win the division, and the Mets take it, they will fall victim to that lazy second half effort that’s hurt the Braves in seasons past.

By Robert

June 22, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

Well, this is a start. Two and a half years after he quit being an elite producer, somebody in the Atlanta media finally dares to speak ill of Chipper

My question is how long will it take before someone in the Atlanta media starts talking about the donkey wearing the manager’s uniform and his ten year slump - actually more like a lifelong slump interrupted by fifteen minutes of glory in 1995.

Get Eeyore out of the dugout, for heaven’s sake get Eeyore out of the dugout

By Johnny Taco

June 22, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

IS THE DODGERS’ DANYS BAEZ A FREE AGENT THIS YEAR?

I KNOW JS TRIED TO ACQUIRE HIM FROM TAMPA LAST WINTER.

By Woodrow

June 22, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

Thank the broadcast gods that tonight’s game is on TBS. We won’t have to suffer through a Torborg induced agaony.

“When I was a catcher…” “When I was with the Expos…” “When my son was a pro wrestler…”

By Kentavo

June 22, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

Could it be that Chipper was on the juice, and now he’s not?

By Self-important blogger

June 22, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

Guy Curtright tells it like it is—-nothing like DOB who I would suppose is afraid of getting banned from the shower rooms if he doesn’t keep pandering to the slobs!

By Josh

June 22, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

Now I admit that I love the old broadcast crew just as much as everybody else but give Rath and Torborg a break. What can they talk about. They cant talk about the great success the Braves are having or winning streaks or all of the successful rookies or Andrew’s break-out year or Giles 40somethin doubles etc. etc. They aint got much to work with this year

By Red Bull

June 22, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

Guess Chipper isn’t getting the same results now that it’s just Red Bull and sunflower seeds!

By Matt

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

also, another reason to look up for your braves chances. we are leading all of baseball (what i heard before the game yesterday) in 1 run games. its not like we are usually getting blown out of the water. that damn bullpen. what happened to our 2 out clutch hitting at the beginning of the year. when that picks up, we’ll be ok. another thing, i want to know how everybody feels. would you rather win the wild card and then the world series or would you rather keep our streak of division titles going and lose in the playoffs. this might sound like a dumb question to you, but most people that i know are kind of mixed about it. what say you.

By xavier

June 22, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

u writers are the worst instead of writting about how the team fights even if they are lossing i wonder what r u going to write about if they turned around ur going to be kissing the braves butts….ohh and i live in new york i’m a loyal diehard braves fan even if finish in las place.

By L.W.

June 22, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s problem is simple. He misses R.F. batting in front front of him. This year the pitchers are throwing almost all breaking stuff to chipper. Without R.F. on base he isn’t getting fastballs to hit.

Of course it is Chipper’s job to adjust and thus far he hasn’t adjusted this year. I think he is leaning back to far when he bats left thus his head and body are moving. He can’t adjust to the breaking pitch when he has so many moving parts. I think he he stood straight in the box with his feet a little further apart he would be able to hit the off speed pitches.

By Robbie

June 22, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Chipper has been tanking it on purpose because he knows that he is Atlanta’s Golden Boy and that no matter how bad he plays grandpa Cox will put him in the lineup. Case in point the Marlins game almost a week ago when Remlinger threw to third and the ball glanced off Flipper’s glove. Game over it was a half hearted effort at best.

By Antonio McNugget

June 22, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

I have the answer to our struggles. It will only take one thing to get back in the division race. HGH

Anyone have Roger Clemens #?

By Kman

June 22, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

I definitely believe Chipper was juiced a number of years back (98-99). I photographed the Braves quite regularly from 90-2003 and when he came to spring training in 98 he had gained about 20-30 lbs of muscle. If I’m not mistaken, that was his MVP year too. Ever since 2000, he has dealt with the same type of injuries attributed with juicing. I have posted previously on his rediculous statements regarding the Remlinger throw in FLA and also his lack of emotion ofter Frenchy’s blast against Beantown…

By Robert

June 22, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

You know the more I think about this, the more I think the current struggles will eventually prove beneficial to this team

We DO have some good young players. And it looks like they will get to develop something that the past two or three generations of home grown talent havent had the chance to develop - character

Look at Chipper - as soon as the team isnt winning and he isnt chasing a 100 rbi season, he looks totally listless

Look at Andru - a very very good player, but no fire in his belly

Smolztie I’d like to see get a last chance to win - trade him home to Detroit - He has been the only consistant playoff warrior for the Braves - I’m a little disappointed at his lack of leadership now, but he gets something of a pass in my book

For leadership, dont look to Chipper or Andru - aint gonna happen. They never dealt with hard times. Thy dont have it in them

Hopefully, one of the young guys can pick it up. Francouer and McCann both have the makings of long time productive big leaguers (granted, Frenchie needs to learn to some plate discipline, but the raw talent is certainly there) - Hopefully, by going thru this losing, these baby Braves will develop a fire and backbone that the current crop of vets (save Smoltz) never developed

Oh, and by the way - There’s a donkey in the dugout

By T-Bone

June 22, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Trade Chipper this year because this season is a wash and next year he would be 35. It time to shop him and look for a proven younger talent because Chipper All-Star days are behind him. I dont see Chipper going to another team and becoming an All-Star and since the drug testing his power number has went south and plus he is not feared across the league anymore. ITS TIME ATLANTA!!! The problem with the Braves beside owner is that the team hold on to the older guys to long. See Glavine, Maddox,Chipper,Jordan,Smoltz all these guys were proven players but instead of trading them when they get of age and while their trade value is still high, we keep them and let them become FA and they move to another team without getting nothing in return. Plus the Braves have let a ton of good players get away from their system for players they kept for one or two season like the Millwood deal, Sheffield,Lofton,R. Sanders,B.J Suroff,J. Marquis,the J. Dye deal plus many more. The Braves has the best farm system and their line up should be more productive and pichers more proven if only the Braves made the trade at the right time. Plus people forget we won the Championship 11 years ago. Thats a long time ago, hell I was a teenage now I am looking at my 401k. That team was young with speed and power within the whole lineup along with the pichers. So with that been said Trade Chipper and Giles for that proven young guy that plays in Washington Alfonso Soriano and with that I am gone.

By Jerry C

June 22, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Sadly, and for whatever reasons, it appears that Chipper’s best days are behind him. Three straight years of injuries has reduced his production. However, let’s give him credit for the excitment he brought to Braves fans for many years. Now the organization needs to concentrate on rebuilding. Let’s hope a deal for new ownership is reached, and the new owners will have deep pockets.

By Skip & Pete Fan

June 22, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Chipper is done, fini, kaput. He has been for a couple of years, but others carried him. His attitude and arrogance have been hard to take since he came up, but now that he can’t back any of it up - he is hard to take.

Cox won’t move an incompetent lead-off hitter, so you know he won’t move an incompetent #3. Won’t happen. Would rather lose than admit that one of his “boys” can’t do it. We’ve always had a bunch of guys that could overcome Bobby’s reliance on old, non-producing players. But this year, no one has stepped up to make the difference.

Whatever happened to Bobby’s proclamation in Houston that he had to play Betemit more. He played for Giles (when he had a temperature) and he played for Chipper (when he had sore thumb). Otherthan that, all you’ve seen of Betemit is pinch-hitting. So much for Bobby’s proclamation.

Last point - Chipper sitting on the bench the other night when Franceour had just put us ahead with a 3-run homer shows very clearly why this team is horrible. Our highest paid player and self-appointed leader couldn’t even get off his a** to congratulate our new leader!

By Rob C

June 22, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

I love how many leadership experts we have here. I just wonder how anybody knows one way or another whether Chipper or anyone else is a good “leader”. Are you in the clubhouse before and after games? Do you tag along when the “leaders” take the younger guys out for dinner or sit in the clubhouse discussing different approaches to hitting with them? The truth is that none of us have any idea, and to make statements that you have no way of know the truth in is completely stupid.

By Kentavo

June 22, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

Chipper didn’t celebrate Frenchy’s homer against Bosox because he knew the bullpen was going to blow it. If that was a walk-off blast, Chipper would have joined the celebration.

By Jeffrey

June 22, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

Hard to believe that Chipper is now 34 years old. It is fun to remember the young Chipper of the mid 90s and the clutch hitting that he provided. If you look at the greats of baseball, many of them had significant downturns in production around the ages of 32-35. I think Chipper fits that pattern and I think he knows what is happening. It would probably be best for him to move on elsewhere or he will face a rough future with fans and media alike. We will always compare the Chipper of 34 to the Chipper of 24 and that simply can never be. Like Dale Murphy, Chipper should look at the chance to start over elsewhere and be hailed as a big time acquisition for fans who have not watched him daily for the last decade.

By Chop Chop

June 22, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

T-Bone, that “proven young guy that plays in Washington” (Alfonso Soriano) is 30 years old (not young) and is a free agent after this season. If the Braves are afraid to pay Giles $6-7 million after arbitration, there’s no way they’ll be willing to pay Soriano more than that for a three or four year deal.

Skip & Pete Fan, if Francoeur is the Braves’ new leader, he’ll have to start acting like it at the plate. I’m talking about patient at-bats and sustained production. I’ll agree with you about how Chipper doesn’t seem interested. He’s only used to winning. A number of years ago, I remember it being mentioned that Chipper had never missed the playoffs in his life. That might be one reason why he seems so bewildered.

By the way, here’s a link to Chipper’s website:

chipperjones.com

Interesting, uh, read. (That was for Jimmy Smith)

TennesseePaul, my belief is that the Braves are done this year. I don’t have blind faith with this team, mainly because of the postseason failures the Braves have had in the past. To me, this streak reminds me of all of those failures. That’s a strange feeling as a fan, isn’t it? You start looking back and thinking about the missed opportunities…and you wonder if your team will get the chance to miss them again anytime soon.

Strange times to be a Braves fan.

By Jimbo

June 22, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

Guy is right. Chipper is not the same player he used to be. As much as I would like to see him finish his career here this is a two way street. Players are rarely loyal to their team..see Greedy Glav and our former fundamentally challenged shortstop. I think it was Branch Rickey who said many years ago…its better to get rid of a player a year too soon then a year too late. Chipper falls in that category. He still has value but it is dwindling.

By Robert

June 22, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

You are correct that we arent privy to everything that goes on in the clubhouse (amd we shouldnt be - as much contempt as I have for the man, I do have to give Bobby Cox credit for keeping team business, team business, and not turning every breath and whisper into public knowledge)

On the other hand, leadership can be evident by what we do see and hear. If Chipper were a leader, he wouldve handled the Remlinger incident last week differently. A leader wouldve taken responsibility - “My bad” (whether it was or wasnt, that’s what a leader does, take one for the team sometimes) - The best Chipper could say was that everyone has played a role. How about saying “As a veteran leader, it looks like I need to step up and do more to get us turned around”

Look at two years ago, when Chipper opted to chase a personal stat streak instead of making sure he was healthy and rested for the playoffs.

Chipper has never rally carried this team, except for a short stretch in ‘99. He has also never elevated this team. He is one of those guys who is a stat stud, but you get this odd feeling that as counterintuitive as it sounds, the team might be better off without him.

His peripherals are none-existant. Poor baserunner. Below average fielder. Poor fundamentals. Little evidence of leadership

Now he may well be playing hurt - which may sound noble, but given the Braves situation it would be time to give it up and do the smart thing, for his career and for the team. If he’s hurt, get out of the lineup for a while

Plus, he’s going on 35 - Trade him now when you might have some excuses for his lackluster performance so far this year. Try trading him when he’s 36 or 37 and the slide has continued, and you couldnt get Reitsma for him

Back to the Braves rebuilding effort. It’s important that they be able to tell lead from gold, and that they dont attempt alchemy (turning chicken s** into chicken salad). By that I mean that Francouer and McCann are hot prospects, but LaRoche and Langerhans arent. Similarly, they gotta realize that Horatio Ramirez is garbage - no stuff, as evidenced by his lo K rate, and no command, as evidenced by his awful K/BB ratios. Sosa merits a look in the bullpen, tho this season is the first that he has shown any semblance of command

By the way, dont get on the pitchers because of their won-lost record. A pitcher can pitch shutout ball ad nauseum and not get a win, and he can pitch 5 innings of crap and get a win if his team bails him out. Pitchers should be judged on inside stats like K rate, walk rate, K/BB ratio, hits per inning, ground ball/fly ball ratio, not on how much run support they get

By Paul

June 22, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

It’s not that easy to just trade away Chipper even if JS wanted to. You have to understand the economics of baseball, what team is going to pick up that giant contract? Yankees? Already have A-Rod. Mets? Already have David Wright. The only way Chipper is going anywhere is if we agree to pay at least some of his salary, and I don’t seee JS ever agreeing to that.

By Robert

June 22, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

Anyway, I hope we finally win a game tonight. Watch, after what I said about him, Ramirez will hurl a shutout

Cant wait to see what “Eeyore the Mastermind” has in store for tonight. My bet is he’ll tuck his ears under his cap, curl his tail around the bench, shove a hoof up his nose, and stare blankly out toward the pitcher’s mound, but I’m only guessing that cuz it’s what he’s done for the past 2400 or so games. Who knows, tonight the donkey might surprise us all

By jest me

June 22, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Some Cal Ripken stats for those who think he was such a great player.

Lifetime BA: 276 lifetime OBP: 340 Years above 300 BA 3 Years above 30 HR: 1 Years above 100 RBI 4

BA at age 34: 262 HR at age 34: 17

Please explain how that’s so much better than chipper

By ugadawg

June 22, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Chipper has never carried the team? What? That “short stretch in 99” was when he won the NL MVP. I’d say that was pretty good.

Chipper has lost a step, and he’s becoming a joke at the plate. But lets not throw him in the dumpster, the man did a lot for this franchise in the past.

By Josh

June 22, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

Didnt Cal Jr. get over 3,000 hits? Has Chipper? I dont think he’s anywhere close. I like chipper but dont be sayin cal wasnt a great player

By Chop Chop

June 22, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

You’re right, Paul. There’s no way Chipper’s going anywhere unless the Braves take someone else’s overpaid trash in return. Since that wouldn’t help the team, I think Chipper’s going to be a Brave at least through next season.

One thing I would like to see the Braves add in the offseason is some speed. Since they don’t seem to be willing to send runners in motion very often, they need guys who can generate speed on their own. Some would say that Francoeur should be able to steal bases. No less of a baseball authority than the greatest announcer of all-time, Mr. Bob Rathbun, raves about Francoeur’s speed, but the man has yet to steal a base in his career. He has good outfield speed and good first to third/home speed. Maybe Francoeur will learn more about that as he goes along, but you get the feeling that this coaching staff (Pendleton…who should know how to because of his 127 career steals in the bigs, Fredi Gonzalez, Pat Corrales) doesn’t know a damn thing about how to teach someone how to steal a base. Look at ‘em. Look at those bellies. Anyway, as far as I can tell, the only spots on the team where speed can realistically be added are in left field and second base…and the bench. Pete Orr has great speed, but he can’t bunt a ball off a tee to get on base, so his speed is mostly shown when he’s hustling down the first base line for an out.

By Brad

June 22, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones is exhibitting the same entusiasm toward basball, both offensively and defensively that I di about picking cotton by hand in 90 degree weather. But I did not get paid like Chipper does!

By robert

June 22, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

Question to does Chipper’s arms look much smaller than say two years ago? His power numbers sure reflect a loss of quickness and strength.

By Glass Half Full

June 22, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

1871 hits for Chipper in 1700+ games.

By jest me

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

Ripkin played 21 years with 11500 at bats to get to 3000 hits. There’s a lot of players now, in the past, and in the future that can get 3000 hits with that many at bats including chipper. All you have to do is have a BA over 280. Ripkin averaged 80 rbi 20 hr and 276 BA over his playing time. Not great stats for a super star. He was great only because he came to play every day and he was able to play 21 years without getting seriously injured and set the consecutive game record. Not because he carried a team any year. Notice he only had 100 rbi of over 3 years out of 21.

By Josh

June 22, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

and you think Chipper can play as long as Cal did?

By Brent

June 22, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Francoeur is fast, but he doesn’t steal bases because he doesn’t have a quick first step.

It takes him too long to “get going.” (See: When he was thrown out on that sac fly attempt in Houston).

Anyway, stealing bases can be taught, it involves standing correctly, and crossing your left leg over your right in the proper fashion on your first step.

Maybe Dale Murphy could teach him. They have a similar build and Murph stole about 30 bases a year when he was Frenchie’s age.

By Brent

June 22, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

“Being a switch hitter is rare commodity in this day and age.”

Yeah, just ask Wilson Betemit.

I hate that commerical.

By Yelling Last Night

June 22, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Robert, why do you hate Bobby so much. Quit waisting space on this blog with your incessant moaning about the man. Offer some real criticism and or insight or just shut up. Why don’t you go on a Terrence Moore blog where your can join someone else who can’t provide any original thought or insight.

By Chop Chop

June 22, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

Brent,

You’re exactly right as to why Francoeur is seemingly unable to steal bases.

The question is this:

Why hasn’t he been taught proper technique?

Many of these young Braves players seem to be lacking in baseball fundamentals (with the exception of McCann). Maybe the Braves need to clean house in the minors and get some coaches in there who will drill this stuff into players’ heads. Everyone has to make adjustments in the big leagues, but you’re supposed to be making adjustments without also having to learn basic fundamentals about baserunning, bunting, etc.

By jest me

June 22, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

josh

Never said that chipper could play 21 years or get 11500 AB. He has the misfortune of being injury prone. Only said that if he did then he would get to 3000 hits with his BA. Was only comparing chipper’s yearly stats with ripkins yearly stats. Everyone complaining about chipper but when you compare his stats to a hall of famer like ripkin, even this years stats, then he doesn’t look that bad. Even compared to another hall of famer Eddie Mathews he doesn’t look that bad (higher BA 271 to 309, more years above 100 rbi - 5 to 8,

By Brent

June 22, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

Chop-chop,

Good point. I didn’t want to bring up the lack of fundamentals, because we supposedly have the best system in place in all of baseball.

But you can’t refute the fact that Jeff is lacking in a couple of key areas (maybe he was rushed up too quickly?)

I understand that Jeff Blausser is now coaching at AA Mississippi - maybe that will help. ;-)

By Josh

June 22, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

ok i see where you’re comin from now

By MGL

June 22, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

OK, we need a couple of games like the White Sox just completed!! 40 hits and 33 runs in 2 games against the Cards. Go Braves!!

By Franklins Tower

June 22, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

Gran Jen wrote: “Quit picking on Chipper! I’d like to see who among us could get up every day and go to a physically demanding job with the injuries he has and perform half as well.”

You are pitiful. I think most of us would climb Kilamanjaro every day for $13M a year and that is 100X more stressful than what MLB players deal with. What a simply ridiculous statement you made.

By jest me

June 22, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

are you sure that 11 runs a game is enough for this pitching staff? Bull pen would fing a way to give up 12.

By MGL

June 22, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

jest me - It should be enough, it was 33 in 2 games, 16.5 each.

By Jeff

June 22, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

Guy’s right, but…the team could carry Chipper if the pitching was where it should be. Position players don’t win championships; pitching and defense do.

By Seth

June 22, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

Chipper looked so good in the World Baseball Classic. I was very excited to see him crush the ball the same way for the Braves this season. So far it’s been the total opposite. Last night, Toronto actually brought in a right hander in the eighth inning to make Chip bat left-handed. I