Braves

By Mike

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

DOB the Braves were swept in ‘99…your talking about game 4.

By ssiscribe

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

DOB, wish the ballclub had taken the 99 Yanks to seven games. Unfortunately, the Bravos were swept away in that one, with me stuck in a freezing cold makeshift press box in the left-field seats for the first two games.

Hopefully, Chuck James gave this bunch some confidence with his solid performance yesterday. Winning two out of three in Yankee Stadium would be a real nice way to head back home and hopefully start turning this thing around.

Enjoy the blog. Later.

By ssiscribe

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

DOB, wish the ballclub had taken the 99 Yanks to seven games. Unfortunately, the Bravos were swept away in that one, with me stuck in a freezing cold makeshift press box in the left-field seats for the first two games.

Hopefully, Chuck James gave this bunch some confidence with his solid performance yesterday. Winning two out of three in Yankee Stadium would be a real nice way to head back home and hopefully start turning this thing around.

Enjoy the blog. Later.

By Joe

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

David,

Please check your baseball history (see your second paragraph). The 1999 World Series only want four games and the Yankees swept. A seven game 4-3 series would have been great, but not even close.

By 22oz

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

I don’t want to be anal here, but i believe the Braves were swept in the 1999 series.

I bet Bobby was in the bathroom while LaRoche got those hits against the lefty yesterday. We’ll see tonight against the Unit.

By ssiscribe

June 26, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

DOB:

One more thing (been swamped lately, but hoping to be back on here more this week): What would it take, in your opinion, for the Braves to have a realistic shot at either Joe Nathan of the Twins or Carl Crawford of the D’Rays. May not be enough for the East race, but one of those guys definitely would help.

Thanks. Later on.

By ncscoots

June 26, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, dude, that’s a lot of “need” in that blog startup. But I guess you’re right. It still goes back to pitching, and even if the offensive “needs” you cited occur, we still need a little more help in the bullpen to have even a glance of a glimmer of a hope at postseason.

By Bob, journalist

June 26, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

My thoughts are primarily with “The Lady” but wanted to quickly comment before attacking the chores … I agree that “They need a lot of things” … but, regardless of future events, Chuck James gave us something when we needed it most … Hope.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 26, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

dob, please make someone in the braves organization aware of the toe difficulties experienced by kevin mench earlier in the season. have a good toe man inspect him before any trade is made. imagine the braves trading for a guy who lost his position to mark derosa!

now, if you missed it in the last blog, carolina lady is hospitalized and we must all keep her in our prayers. she was a wonderful contributor to this blog for a time and it provided her a lot of enjoyment. nice lady. best wishes. a nobody, please make sure she knows we care. lots of friends here.

now, baseball … dob, is smoltz foolish? will he pitch if he is not 100%? if he remains a brave we want him healthy. if js moves him he must be healthy. why risk injury now?

By ncscoots

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

well, ssiscribe didn’t ask MY opinion on getting Joe Nathan or Carl Crawford, but what the hey…I’m sure DOB is a little busy, so I’ll play Tampa GM on Carl Crawford. Here would be my opening offer to JS:

1. Wilson Betemit - that allows me to move Aubrey Huff back to the outfield.
2. James or Davies - I’m asking, knowing I won’t get either, and I’ll take another ready-or-near-ready pitching prospect from a third team, but JS has to do the legwork to get me one of the guys I want.
3. Jo-Jo Reyes/Yunel Escobar/Elvis Andrus - I really want pitching, but I’ll take a solid potential star for middle infield, since Lugo and Cantu won’t be here forever.

Remember, I’ve got be overwhelmed to move Crawford…he’s 25, has a club-friendly contract, and is popular with my fans. Whaddaya say, virtual Braves GMs?

By journalist jimmy smith

June 26, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith will give you chipper and a dr. pepper.

By ncscoots

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

jimmy, throw in some Planters peanuts to put in that DP, and we can talk deal!

By Rob C

June 26, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

I agree with ya ncscoots, Tampa has no real incentive to move Crawford unless it’s an offer he literally can’t refuse. I also agree that Planters + DP = crazy delicious

By MGL

June 26, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith - I read last week that Heidi Klum is expecting her second child by seal. Have you had baby seal under control? I know how the ladies love him, but you don’t want paternity suit problems.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

I say if they aren’t going to be able to pull off a MAJOR (and I mean major) trade to actually make a serious run at the wild card. Which by the way I think IS out of reach. Then don’t make any moves other than to use this lost season to call up prospects and AAA players that you think may help next year. Why try and judge in spring training what a prospect will give you, when most of the time they are facing other prospects.

Call em up. Give em some playing time, and see what the immediate future holds with the farm system in place. If the farm system isn’t goint to provide ALL of the help the braves will need next year, then make some trades in the offseason.

But I’m still for “giving up” and trading some stars if the price is right (Top notch ready to play prospects).

By Ron Roberts

June 26, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

I have a hunch that the whole notion of the Twins trading Joe Nathan has gone by the wayside with their recent streak. They’re in the hunt for a playoff spot in the AL now, folks, so don’t look for them to rid themselves of Nathan or Liriano anytime soon.

By ncscoots

June 26, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

nathan, define major. Is there a single, individual deal that you think would send the message that they’re still in the hunt?

By 22oz

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

If the Braves can avoid a major slump again for the next few weeks, they will get a major boost off the DL: Brian Jordan. Ya’ll just wait. His veteran leadership that won us all those titles will win us another one.

By geauxbraves2000

June 26, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

It is definitely a long shot for the Braves to make post season, but if any team can do it, it’s the Braves. Moving Sosa to the pen was the right move, letting Rem go was the right move and moving James into the rotation was the right move, so IMHO the Braves are starting to make the right moves, I just wish it wouldn’t have taken sooooo long.

Geaux Braves!!!

By BOB C

June 26, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

DOB - You opened a 10-year-old wound today talking about Yanks-Braves W.S. Our best team by far during the run was the ‘96 team. We crushed them two straight up at the Evil Empire and then we (my wife and children) HAD to attend our only World Series game. We equate it to the goat, Bartman and Rich Garcia etc. While still terminal Braves fans, we have vowed never to venture up from Florida for a meaningful game again. But we DID stop the streak here in Florida over the weekend. I personally credit my Mark Lemke #20 shirt for the turnaround. SPANK THE YANKS!

By RobC

June 26, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if it’d be considered major, but I read this morning that Peter Gammons said the Braves were very active in the trade talks that sent Joey Gathright to KC, and could possibly work a deal with KC for him. Considering the new man in charge in KC (Dayton Moore) knows the ATL system better than anyone else outside of the Braves organization and is trying to rebuild a franchise, a trade seems very possible. Gathright would give us a good defensive left fielder and a leadoff man. He’s also still young with a couple of years left on his contract. We’d probably be giving up Betemit/Langerhans, but it might be worthwhile.

By ncscoots

June 26, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

ron, don’t know if nine-and-a-half back in the wild card qualifies as “in the hunt”. Can’t expect them to go 13-2 every two weeks the rest of the season…

By ben

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

Great Post DOB,

What do you think about Peter Gammon’s thoughts on the Braves interst in Joey Gathright of the Royals? He was suggesting the Braves were considering moving Andruw over the winter…Your thoughts?????

By Head Coach

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

I say Thomson and Giles are history before the July 31st trading deadline. Scheurholz will try to improve the team , obviously. But face it folks , this is a rebuilding job for next year. It seems that Schuerholz is intent on holding on too Smoltz , Hudson , Andruw and Chipper and building a young inexpensive team around them. Somehow this doesnt excite me in the least bit. The following status quo seems to be the goal of this franchise : Build a modestly competitive team , attract enough fans through the turnstiles and turn a small profit. It feels like we are going nowhere fast. This team does have the potential to finish with a winning record , but the playoffs are a pipe dream at the moment. This three game set with the Evil Empire will show just how flawed this current roster really is. The current offensively challenged bunch has 574 strikeouts , second worst in the majors. Randy Johnson is going to have a field day if he is on his game.

By SR

June 26, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

This team is still as wretched as the day is long. How disgraceful is it to be in last place and be crowing about taking 2 out of 3 from the freakin D’Rays? Is this how far this team has fallen?

No offensive production at all, Giles stinks. .239 out of the leadoff spot, how great is that! Hudson exemplifies overrated, from his pathetic showing in the first game of the playoffs last year to his last stinking performance, not what you want in an ace. Smoltz is Smoltz but even with the bullpen blowing most of his leads, he still has come up short on his own more often than in the past.

This team induces a stupor every time you watch them, same old players making the same old mistakes, time after time after time, from Giles to LaRaoche, to Francouer and so on and so on. How sad.

By Hal

June 26, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this

Why in the name of heavens would the Twins trade Franky Liriano hes 23 years old a rookie and makes the major league minimum salary .He also has struck out over a batter an inning and has an era of .216 ! Anyone making an offer for him better bring the bank and a gun to put to the twins gms head

By Chop Chop

June 26, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

The funny thing is that the Twins, despite being red-hot, are still 9.5 games out of the wildcard right now in the AL. The Braves are 9 games out in the NL. Assuming that the Twins cool off some and that the White Sox and Tigers keep winning, they don’t have a prayer of making the playoffs.

By Lew

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

Journalist Jimmy Smith-What have you heard about the condition of Chipper’s toe? How about Andruw’s? They looked like their toes were hurting the other night when Chipper gave up on the stolen base and Andruw kind of jogged (maybe) to first base on what should have been a double. Must be toe problems. They need pie And a couple of trades to get back in it. Maybe a pole application, too.

By Riley Martin

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

Riley Martin has a hunch that HGL is referring to another esteemed baby seal. The correct and proper baby seal was female if Riely Martin is not mistaken. HGL should find us some HGH and things of this nature for these weak hitting Braves such as Chipper Jones.

I am with the esteemed journalist in the beleif that anyone beat out by Mark Derosa is not a good addition to the team.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

mgl, though it is true that supermodel heidi klum is expecting a child with someone described as the singer seal - it is definitely not baby seal! jimmy smith googled to find out more about this singer seal. jimmy smith’s only experience with musical seals is the well known harp seal.

the harp seal plays a plucked string instrument, usually triangular in shape, in which the plane of the strings is perpendicular to the soundboard. this is not to be confused with the zither. jimmy smith hopes this is helpful. and one last thought …

jimmy smith cannot imagine beautiful heidi klum preparing small fish and crustaceans for a singer seal. she could have had jimmy smith who lives on the humble cheese sandwich and root beer - a staple of journalists.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

lew, journalist is still smarting from the poll application you gave journalist in the last blog. don’t paint chipper anytime soon. journalist jimmy smith did not see chipper give up on the stolen base but baby seal was most upset that chipper did not slide. did he stop running? maybe it is time for chipper to sing happy trails and return to the ranch. when mr. ed retired he went off to college. chipper could do that, too. uh, cosmetology so he could learn about the planets. also, with regard to andruw, he does not run all out ot first base. never has. it has not been corrected by bobby cox and won’t be now. we live for the three run homer - only andruw is not making much contact with runners on - and chipper’s power is now to the track - not the seats. toes do not cause such problems unless the brain is in the toe.

By Cleanuphitter16

June 26, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this

Can’t say that a trade for Joey Gathright thrills me all that much. The guy is a career .247 hitter. .317 OBP. 0 HRs in 421 career at bats. 38 SB in 146 career games. He’s 24 years old. And his numbers for this season: .211/0/13 with 12 SB in 166 ABs.

Quite frankly, all those numbers suck. Since the trade to KC he has had 5 good games, but in the 55 games he played with Tampa Bay to start the season, he hit .201 with an OBP of .305.

So what’s the appeal? If JS gives up Wilson or Langy for those numbers, he MUST be in panic mode. Maybe he’s the second coming of Rickey Henderson, but I don’t see it.

By Joe

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

Dave, I know, I asked myself the same qeustion about James being in the rotation from the beginning. But let’s see if he can continue to build on this success and continue to go deep into games with quality starts against quality teams, in “big” games. Rubber matches, etc. Who’s to say that he wouldn’t have gone through what every other rookie must go through—some growing pains. Even if this guy were the next Glav, remember Glav’s poor start to his career. Those stats would not be much better than Thomson, Sosa, and Davies. I still think this team can make the wild-card or be in position to push for it by Septmber if they can just get back to winning 2 of 3. If the Braves can do that, then we’ll see the braves climb up rather quickly.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

nscoots…….I’m not suggesting this as a move, it would in fact be kind of silly, but for instance: Giles, one of the top pitchers, & salty for Soriano.

Now before you all go off on me saying what a moron I am, I would be seriously p*ssed off if they tried to pull somthing like this off, and I highly doubt they will. But JS’s ego is way to big to not try and pull off a monster deal like this to save this season.

But like some others have suggested, trading Salty and a top notch pitching prospect for somebody like Crawford would not only be good for next year and beyond, it may just jumpstar one last push for the wildcard. Just so long as no “upcoming” trade involved Chuck James. I’m not sure if he is the next Glavine or not, but he seems to have a clue what he’s doing out there, so I hope we keep him and aren’t just “showcasing” him for tradebait.

I don’t know if I could support a BIG trade that would take on payroll unless some future payroll went the other way in a deal. Because I gather the Braves are gonna have a hard enough time keeping Andruw around if they so choose, that they don’t need to hinder those efforts by adding a big dollar player “just for this year”.

But on the other hand, if they think they could get Soriano or sombody of that nature, and sign them to a long term deal that is going to be “cheaper” than retaining Andruw, you would have to give JS credit for thinking ahead and trying to fix a problem that could be on the horizon.

By TennesseePaul

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

I’m not of this mind that says the season is done before June is done. We are in a hole, no doubt. But whe have a little more than half the season left. And the Month of August is just waiting to be unbelievable. We have 45 home games in the second half. that’s the majority of the remaining 81 games of the second half. The trade dead line is going to seperate the contenders from the rebuilders and if we make the right trade, we have all the reason in the world to be contenders. Especially with the month of August looming.
We need to play above .500 ball for July. But then we need to play the exact opposite of June in August. If we end August within only a handful of losses, we are in this for sure.

We slumped early. Last year we ended the regular season on a losing streak. This year we’ll end on a winning streak. We’re still in this. No team has clinched anything yet.

On another note, with Elvis and Yunel in the minors, I think Giles or Betemit will be traded. With Escobar making the name for himself in the minors that he is, I think Giles or Betemit will be traded. Giles is good, but having a bad year. At the same time Giles is 4,5,6 million a year, Escobar is league minimum. If Escobar can play as well in the majors as he has his whole life, then we have ourselves an amazing, inexpensive player. Which means we have a player to trade. Betemit hasn’t been as hot as a starter as he is a pinch hitter. So we might be able to get more from him now than if we made him a starter. Giles has the potential to really get on fire, especially if the right trade is made to get a speedy guy in LF. Then Giles could be moved down in the order. Add in all that extra cash from Chipper and we have ourselves the making of something incredible. I just look forward to it happening.
As bitter as a lot of people are on this blog that the streak of 14 straight first place finishes only has 1 WS title, how could one be more dissapointed with this team trying to keep the streak alive this year with hard play and good trades and failing, than with just giving up and rolling over like the French? I for one don’t want to relinquish this title without a fight. I look forward to this Braves putting up a fight. I look forward to another shot at the WS in October.

GO BRAVES

By Dr. Jay

June 26, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this

Grrrrrrr…the Yankees. I’d still like to kick Jim Leyritz in the b#lls. Let’s hope for some good competitive baseball. If our guys can’t get up for a game at Yankee Stadium, then we really need to retool. But I don’t think that will be the case. Maybe we can sneak out with a couple of wins and get some momentum back… C’mon guys…most of us are still with you.

By rowland

June 26, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

Glad to know that JS isn’t throwing in the towel. Gathright and Wilson are intriguing prospects, young and could prosper in a positive environment. Still must get a stopper!

By Limit_theMadness

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

Sure would be nice if AJC would put a limit on how many times some of these long-winded baztards can comment on any particular blog—give someone else a chance for crying out loud—there are 3 or 4 of these self-important long-winded morons that usually use about 80% of the blogs with just their idiotic comments—do they even have a life?—they post comments at all hours of the damned day, every damned day—you’re not funny, intelligent, learned, or knowledgable about much of anything—egomaniacs!—get lost!—your shyt got old a long time ago!

By chopthis

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

Hey, Dave the Hack —

You probably should take a copy editor along on the road with you to check your “facts” and proof your random ramblings. You and Bisher both have had embarrassing misinformation in your latest Braves posts.

It’s all about credibility. And the AJC doesn’t have any more to spare.

By Chop Chop

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

If the Braves aren’t going to make the playoffs this year, I’d gladly accept a consolation prize:

A sweep of the Yankees at the Stadium.

By baby seal

June 26, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

baby seal pleased to report that heidi klum is nice girl. just as jimmy smith not know how baby seal blog, well, you know. now baseball… baby seal really like carl crawford. if way to get him we should try. baby seal wonders if any real contenders want late inning defensive sub at first base, role filled by doug mientkevic for boston couple years ago. baby seal can’t spell that name, but thinks laroche could fill same role somewhere else. play betemit at first (if, um, chipper won’t, uh, move from third.)

By MrT

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

Limit the Madness is right,,,,,Bob, journalist, journalist jimmy smith, Nathan, ncscoots, ssiscribe, Ron Roberts,,,,,go get yourselves msn messenger or yahoo messenger,,,,,add each other,,,,,,then you can impress each other without annoying everyone else,,,,,besides, what more needs to be said about the Atlanta Braves?,,,,,they suck, and are going to suck for many more years to come.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul: I wish I shared your optimism, I really do. Normally with the “home heavy” schedule in the second half, I’d say “yeah we got a shot”. Surely after all of the road games got us off to such a slow start, we all thought “all the Braves need is some home cookin” to get going. Well, after the recent home trip pretty much went in the toilet, I’m not so sure that it really matters where they play. Bad teams play bad ball whatever the venue. Plus I’m not sure the “pressure” of playing in front of impatient hometown fans is the place to get “it” going.

Not tryin to argue, just callin it like I see it.

By Lew

June 26, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith-Yes Chipper stopped running (about 20 feet from 2nd base) and did not slide on a steal attempt. It is true that he was the proverbial dead duck, but there was zero effort. Andruw hit a routine single to left which was misplayed by the TB left fielder. Andruw at that time decided his toe was ok and turned it up a notch and was also a proverbial dead duck (by30 feet) at second base. He didn’t even do his normal jog to first, he was damned near walking. Also little effort. You know that I support the Braves as much as most people and more than many, but this was an all-time low. LaRoche moves faster and he does a great imitation of a cigar store indian.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 26, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

the elephants are back. time to read a book.

By baby a*****

June 26, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

baby a$hole thinks braves should get babe ruth, dig babe up, prop up babe at first base, then 2 corpse be on first base, babe bring good big luck, babe good, babe hit, babe pitch, babe dead, but good, babe real good, trade reitsma for jenks, trade pratt for johnny bench, trade gilley for pete rose, bet he would be good, trade thomson for bob gibson, sosa for nolan ryan, team better then, win coveted division, but no ws, andruw for willy mays, langerhans for aaron, get rivera, gagne, wagner, hoffman, bj ryan in blowpen, team win then, baby a$hole say so,

By Daybed Wagmoe

June 26, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this

hey DOB,

is marcus giles a realistic trade possibility? the thing that i’m thinking is, who would want him? i mean, he’s played decent defense this year, but he’s no gold glover by any means and has made several mental errors that opened the door to runs scoring. plus, what team would want his bat? while he used to be a doubles machine, he’s now hitting fly-outs WHEN he hits the ball and not striking out (which is too much).

so, why would another team want marcus giles, and why would they be willing to part with a good player in return?

By Baseball Genius

June 26, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

Well now I think if the Braves would have won more games then they would have a better record. They need to play better, not worse. I think that the Braves should play better, then the Braves would have a better record because they would win more games and lose less games than other teams which directly affects their record. A better record would make the Braves a better team, but the Braves will have to be a better team before they could have a better record. Of course a record is no more than a reflection of the Braves actual win/lose ratio and should in no way reflect how good the team is. The Braves are better than their record says they are because Bobby Cox says they are better than their record says they are and they believe their beloved manager Bobby Cox. But the Braves record doesn’t actually agree with manager Bobby Cox.

Thoughts??,,,,,

By The Captain

June 26, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

22oz, you can’t be serious about Brian Jordan. No doubt he’s a good guy and he did a lot for this franchise in his first time through. But his injury could be the thing that actually turns this team around and gives them a chance. He can lead from the bench. He may be a nice guy, but we don’t need him grounding into rally-killing double plays and botching plays any decent first basemen would make.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 26, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

one more post to lew before journalist leaves it to the elephants … it is sad to see a braves player not hustle. journalist remembers when there was no effort before - in those old blue uniforms. it isn’t pretty. it is especially ugly from the team superstars. if it is true that they “live for this” they must hustle at all times. not since bream and berryhill were on this team has someone gone to first so slowly. oh, bream and beryhill were running though.

By ncscoots

June 26, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

wow…MrT and LimitTheMadness, I apologize if I have posted too much recently. I stayed away from the blog for quite a while, and maybe I’m overreacting to posting once again. Sorry dudes.

By Dummasz Playerz

June 26, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

What player of any quality or character whatsoever would want to be traded to the Atlanta Pathetics with 70% of the payroll doled out to 4 or 5 players, and with a donkey in the dugout?,,,,,,,losers!

By baby elephant

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

now they’re making disparaging remarks at baby elephant and his family, not right, AJC should do something about all these personal attacks. “leave it to the elephants”…..what’s that supposed to mean…..why not just leave it to the morons?

By 1993 It Ain't

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

If you make the conservative assumption that the NL Wild Card team will win at least 87 games, the Braves would have to have a .640 winning percentage to get to 87 wins. Only two teams in MLB have played at a clip as good as that for the first 3 months of the season (Tigers and White Sox). The Braves would have to suddenly turn into the best team in baseball to make the playoffs. It would not be the greatest miracle in history, but at no point this year have they resembled anything close to a good team, let alone the best team. So, yeah, this season is over. This team does not have the talent that past Braves teams have had to make that kind of run. And for those harping on the home-to-road games ratio in the second half being favorable to the Braves, they have actually played better on the road so far this season. So that really does not appear to matter to this team.

I will still watch because it will be interesting to see when management overtly concedes that the season is over. I hope they don’t make any trades unless it is geared toward making them better beyond this season.

As we used to say frequently in the 1980’s: Wait ‘til next year!!!

By Random Thinker

June 26, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this

I don’t know why they keep these blogs going——hell, there’s only so many ways that you can describe a t*rd!

By Clinch

June 26, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this

Braves may be clinching this year—-butt it won’t be what you think!

By Bob, journalist

June 26, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this

If Seneca the Younger was right and all cruelty springs from weakness, then it follows that “The Lady” has an abundant supply of that elusive inner strength for which we are all looking.

There’s nothing more beautiful or powerful than a picture of words painted by a master … whether it’s country cookin’, BB-Guns, Braves’ baseball, or a simple greeting … her’s are all trreasured masterpieces of friendliness, caring, sincerity, wit and class.

looking for reasons to Blog? To have the opportunity to “associate” with folks like the lady from Carolina is among the best!

By elbravox

June 26, 2006 07:00 PM | Link to this

go braves///

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

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

Hello Blog……The ever nostalgic (sp?) Yankee. Mabey we can take 2 out of 3 from these guys…..;.if we in every series from here on out we may have a shot……..lol……lets see a good game by hudson tonight.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this

This series is going to be FUNNY.

signed,

A long winded blogger with no baseball knowledge whatsoever.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 07:26 PM | Link to this

You start LaRoach but not Mccann…..dont make since to me.

Torberg a horrible annoucer that pitch was like right down the middle (ref. Torberg analysis of Giabi’s HR.)

Whats up with Hudson’s control? Thought he fixed that with some video tape he watched.

apppears the umpire is calling a tight strike zone.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

Juan Cruz:

3-3 Record, 4.05 ERA, 1.24 whip, 46.2 innings…….$575,000.00 salary

Tim Hudson:

6-6 Record, 4.05 ERA, 1.29 whip, 106.2 innings……..$6,500,000.00 salary

Good trade JS.

So we essentially are getting about 60 more innings of the same stats for that extra 6 million? hmmmmmm $100,000.00 per inning, sounds like a deal to me.

Gotta love our GENIUS GM. We wouldn’t want to go with “youth” and “athleticism” over veterans would we. Where would the 91 team have been without the “YOUNG” arms of Avery, Glavine, & Smoltz. Not to put Juan Cruz into that category, but how do you know if you don’t “wait it out”.

Of course Cruz is only 3 years younger than Hudson, but 3 years is 3 years.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this

Who else is tired of that Francour commercial?

Dont know if Diaz make the best base theif epecially since the only hits LaRoach gets are for extra bases…….he would score with out that base hit.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

score anyway with an extra bse hit (what i meant to say at the end of that last sentence.

By Bob, journalist

June 26, 2006 07:44 PM | Link to this

Nathan, in keeping with the topic of random thoughts … 10 Paul isn’t an eternal optimist … he’s just a passionate, old-school Braves’ fan who is sharing that extra special something which some folks have that makes them stay the course in times of adversity … when it’s easier to abandon it in dispair. I’m told that is more precious than gold … though I doubt he even realizes the value of sharing what he has.

By JJMB

June 26, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

Giambi looks like he’s on HGH or something androgenic.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

Billy I couldn’t agree more as to the CONFUSION as to why you play LaRoche and not McCann.

Worst thing that ever could’ve happened over the weekend (Pratt hitting a 3run Homer). Bobby’s was probably heard saying somthing to the effect: “Pratty’s been hittin the ball hard with nothing to show for it. We’re gonna give him a shot out there 2 or 3 times a week to get the “hot” bat in the lineup.”

I’m sure it had way more to do with McCann not having to face the Big Unit. We woudn’t want that to “mess up” his swing for the rest of the year. Randy’s the kind of guy that can put you in a slump for a few weeks after you face him.

I’ve actually heard/read Bobby saying the last part of this post. UNBELIEVABLE.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

Hey Hudson, still worried about that runner at 2nd?

By Kent

June 26, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this

Alright… Maybe Hudson should be on the trading block after all.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this

lets hope johnson cant hang some……..not likely with our free swingers

By TennesseePaul

June 26, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

Day’s like this I think Trading Hudson would be an amazing move. There is still hype out there on him. We haven’t run him completely in the ground. Maybe we could get back a mixture of superstars and super subs, cash, and a new lear jet. I don’t know, but this is retarded. He’s supposed to be the stopper. The go to guy.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

well said paul and kent

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

we need to take some pitches and get people on….Johnson’s control has been suspect lately. Hey DOB, why is Torberg a Major Leauge annoucer….he is absoulte garbage…..he makes more errors in the booth on a good day than the entire Braves infeild the whole season.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

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

ok…lets not take any pitches…………..unreal.

By jon

June 26, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

I agree on Torberg…good lord he is terrible..especially tonight! He is talking about Tim Hudsons changeup not working tonight. IT’S A FREAKING SPLIT FINGER! HAHA He just said Tim threw another one and the freaking pitch was 88 mph! Terrible!

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

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

Why is he still in the game? Our bullpen can do better than this…just admit that he dont have his stuff tonight………this ame could be 9-0 by the 5th

By jon

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

Tim Hudson hasnt impressed me since the day he arrived! This is not surprising to me at all. I vote for trade him to a contender and get some young arms

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

Giambi 5 Braves 0

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

I wish this umpire would call the game both ways

By robdawg06

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

Giambi has 22 hrs. Obviously he can hit with or without steroids.

By David O'Brien

June 26, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

Hey, how ‘bout Huddy tonight, eh? Ohhhh … Smithers…..

If he ain’t hurt, Hudson’s got to be wondering what on earth has happened to his command. if he’s not walking three in an inning, he’s giving up two homers in two innings.

Oh, by the way, you guys knew I was just testing you on that World Series trivia, right? That I was purposefully writing seven games when I knew it was four? Ok, good, just wanted to make sure you knew.

(actually, it just pointed out why we have copy editors for actual stories that go in the newspaper. that error would really have not looked good in the paper. here, i’m able to simply go in and fix my faux pas after it was so quickly noted. I don’t know how i screwed that up, since I’m sitting here staring at the Braves’ postseason results against the Yankees as I wrote it.

Oh well, short night of sleep and no copy editors for the blog will do that once in a while, though hopefully very infrequently.

Oh, and Baseball Genius, what do you propose we blog about tomorrow? Something witty, please, like your post above.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

No you didn’t say the bullpen could pitch scoreless innings ? I’d rather have Hudson with 7 blisters and a fractured wrist (on his pitching hand) pitching than anyone in the bullcrap pen.

By Larry

June 26, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

This is DISGUSTING!!!

By robdawg06

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

Why don’t we blog : Giles Continues To Leadoff Despite Anemic BA ?

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this

Diaz and Betemit are clearly the best hitters on the Braves team. These guys need to be hitting leadoff and 2nd in the lineup.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

billy, the umpire isn’t making the Braves hitters swing at the first pitch, is he?

just thought I’d give you a hard time.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

I meant Betemit leadoff and Diaz 2nd,ok.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

well….at least were not striking out……..

By JasonInMaine

June 26, 2006 08:31 PM | Link to this

Trade Hudson…before he really eats up our payroll in the next couple of years. A contender will still be willing to part with a couple of prospects for him as not a lot of pitching is going to be available. Trade him…NOW!!!

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

The Devilrays don’t stand a chance winning their division with Boston and NY there so they might as well trade Crawford to a team that can win in the future (like the Braves). Giles for Crawford would be a fair trade IMO. Obviously Giles isn’t hitting .300 this year but his career BA is .300

By nathan

June 26, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

How about Hudson and Chipper to the Yankees for AROD? Trade Renteria for a Major League ready pitching prospect, put AROD at SS where he belongs and Betemit at 3B.

Never gonna happen & it would ensure that Andruw would be gone…..but it’s a thought.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 08:35 PM | Link to this

For once I agree with trading a guy……Hudson has looked great at times….the problem is he’s looked horrible at times as well. If we can trade him mabey we can sign glavine or maddux for a reunion.

next year rotation:

J. Smoltz T. Glavine/G. Maddux H. Ramirez C. James K. Davies

Not great but I think i’d get the job done…..just shut up torberg.

By nathan

June 26, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

The Unit looks like he’s tiring. Let’s see if they make him work or go up there hacking like they have all night.

By robdawg06

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

Hampton will be back next year too. It will be Smoltz,Hudson,C.James,Hampton,Davies.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

oh yeah forgot…..that last pitch he has’nt called all night.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

The Roach is hitting a shiny .249

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

The Unit looks like he will pitch a shutout tonight. What’s new ?

By robdawg06

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

Why not try to trade Giles and LaRoche to the Cubs for Derrek Lee ?

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

D.Lee is still hurt I think but he would be huger for next year.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

LOL….if you were the brewers would you do it?

By Todd A

June 26, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

Wonder if having Pratt behind the plate had something to do with Hudson being unable to find a comfort zone in the first 4 innings?

By nathan

June 26, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

2 hits? That’s all we’ve got? So what’s that 2 hits in the last 14 innings against the braves?

Unbelievable. I am actually at a loss for words.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:54 PM | Link to this

Millwood’s like 7-1 for the Rangers. His replacement (2 years ago) Paul Byrd is with the Angels now. So basically we traded Millwood for Cormier & Villareal because Estrada was traded for them. Can you say bad trade ?

By robdawg06

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

Giles with his .238 BA at leadoff…

By Todd A

June 26, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this

Lots of “ifs” there,DOB.Unfortunately….WAY too many.2007 or bust.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this

What about Giles,LaRoche,Langerhans,and Horam to the Marlins for D.Willis and M.Cabrera ?

By Larry

June 26, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

Nice job Barry!

By Charleston Brave

June 26, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

What is wrong with the offense??? RJ is throwing at least three mistake pitches an inning and no one connects. I need a close up. Are they closing their eyes when they swing? SH**!

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

so much for not striking out………..one word……apathy

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

Simple comparisons to see what’s wrong : Hudson 5 ER Unit 0 ER Giambi 2 Hrs Andruw 0 Hr

By robdawg06

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

Potential Trade : Bobby Cox for Jim Leyland…

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

This blog is deader than a cemetary…

By Todd A

June 26, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

What a debacle of a season this has become.At this point,no player in the organization should be untouchable.Trading castoffs for more castoffs won’t turn this wreck around next year.

Another 10 strikeout performance by the Braves’ hackers forthcoming.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

please dont get people talking about ridicoulus post such as trade the whole team of puljos arod and b. arryo.

oh well mabey tommorow

By Sonny

June 26, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

I’d trade Giles, Hudson and Chipper if we can. Giles is too inconsistent, as is Hudson for the money they earn. Chipper is simply done. Get value for some younger players and let the rebuilding begin. I would also put LaRoche, Langerhans and golden boy Francour on notice to start stepping it up or else.

Concerning the bullpen…get a new one.

Next years rotation with Hudson traded:

Smoltz Hampton (if his p*ssy doesn’t hurt) Davies Ramirez James

By Todd A

June 26, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

Still need 2 more wins JUST to match the worst month in the history of Atlanta Braves Baseball.It’s going down to the wire.

Wonder how JS’s book sales are coming along?

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

barry dont look bad but he tends to hang some……..

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

4 scrubs for 2 good players is a great trade for the Braves to make. The Marlins need to unload D.Willis and Cabrera because they will be up for huge contracts next year. LaRoche,Langerhans,and HoRam are right up their alley financially. You said Arod & Pujols not me.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

tell a 22 year old semi rookie not to stuggle? Jeez dude do you really understand baseball, i mean comeo on?

LOL

Were gonna trade our 22 year old phenom becasue he’s not an all star yet.

By JasonInMaine

June 26, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

Nothing like facing the Braves to bring a pitcher around. I am officially on the bandwagon…this season is over. I haven’t admitted until now…been in denial. I am going to bed.

By Todd A

June 26, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

Jeez,the Marlins are a game out of 2nd place with a 15 million $ payroll?Where’s the wrecking ball?

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

Who’s the 22 year-old phenom anyway ? D.Willis and M.Cabrera are real young too. Chipper is 2-3 tonight. If the others were 2-3 then maybe the score would be 6-5 Braves instead of 5-0 Yankees.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

referecne this post

By Sonny

June 26, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

I’d trade Giles, Hudson and Chipper if we can. Giles is too inconsistent, as is Hudson for the money they earn. Chipper is simply done. Get value for some younger players and let the rebuilding begin. I would also put LaRoche, Langerhans and golden boy Francour on notice to start stepping it up or else.

Concerning the bullpen…get a new one.

Next years rotation with Hudson traded:

Smoltz Hampton (if his p*ssy doesn’t hurt) Davies Ramirez James

chipper hit hommer…… wow…forgot what that looked like.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

3 things the Marlins have that the Braves don’t have : Leadoff hitter,bullpen,cleanup hitter producing Hrs.

By Michael

June 26, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

JS THE GENIUS!!!

Brought these amazing pitching allstars to Atlanta the last few years:

Abie Lopez Chris Reitsma Dan Kolb Russ Ortiz Mike Hampton (always hurt) Tim Hudson (hasn’t shown much since coming to town) Entire 05 & 06 bullpen (except Keny Ray)

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

18 hr’s name 10 clean up hitter that have more.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Way to go Chipper. If you had anyone that could hit around you maybe you could win. I wish Chipper would be traded to a good team. He’s a winner stuck with losers.

By Michael

June 26, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Brought these amazing pitching allstars to Atlanta the last few years:

Abie Lopez - Chris Reitsma - Dan Kolb - Russ Ortiz - Mike Hampton (always hurt) - Tim Hudson (hasn’t shown much since coming to town) - Entire 05 & 06 bullpen (except Keny Ray)

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

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

LOL

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this

What about Giles,LaRoche,Langerhans,and Horam to the Marlins for D.Willis and M.Cabrera ?

Do you honestly think this is plausible? I understand Ideas…but some of’em are really laughable……if you were the marlins would you make this deal…..if you are and did you dont really deserve to be a GM.

By robdawg06

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

What about the BA ? .250 don’t cut it. I can name 10 with 15-20 hrs that hit .290 - .300 and don’t strike out when they don’t hit homeruns like Andruw does.

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Teams trade stars up for contracts all the time for less talent. The Twins RELEASED David Ortiz a few years ago.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Uhhhh..,..andruw (The Braves Cleanup hitter) is around .280 with 18 hr’s name and more than 60 RBI’s name 10 clean up hitter who has more. Francour does not hit clean up.

By robdawg06

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

D.Willis and M.Cabrera will get $12 to $15 million each on the open market. The Marlins could get the 4 players I stated for about $10 million total. They look at the $$$. $10 million for 4 players is better than $30 million for 2 players to them.

By JasonInMaine

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

I am working and do not have access to the game other than GameCast…what did Bobby get ejected for?

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

There not gonna get that kinda money for a few years and even if they get that kinda money now what makes you think we can afford them?

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Name 10 ? There’s only like 28 teams in MLB total. I looked and you are right, he’s hitting .285 right now.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

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

Arguing ball’s and strikes….just protecting M. Diaz

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this

I’m hoping Arthur Blank will buy the team and $ will not be a big issue then. Somebody will likely get those two from the Marlins and I want it to be us !

By robdawg06

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

I thought he got ejected for not managing…

By robdawg06

June 26, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

Top Batters Atlanta

C. Jones 3-4, 1 HR 2 RBI

By Charleston Brave

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

Has anyone noticed that even with a DH we can’t score any runs.

McCann, our Allstar Rep, hitting nearly 50 points better than everyone else on the team, rides the pine.

This line up doesn’t make sense!

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

In full Flame War mode now……

Let me break this down for ya……

The Marlins have D. Uggla at 2B right now he look like a better option for the long term then M. Giles

The Marlins have M. Jacobs at 1st…..same thing….better option for the long run than A. LaRoach…..this is not even mentioning W. Helms…who is more than apt at playing first.

Langerhans is not going to be an everyday player….great defensivly but can hit…..IMO opinion he’s not gonna last that long at the ML level.;..if he does it’s for his defence……bottom line no value.

Now H. Ramirez is the only person in this deal that intrest the Marlins…..thus their trading a young left handed pitcher for a inconsistant older left hand pticher……

so this is why your trade idea is laughable….I can post stats if you want to further debunk this idea.

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

Before we all go crazy bout this game….rember it was R. Johnson and he was pitching well. Giambi had a great game…..he did not hitter hangers for the most part those pitches were off the plate…..Just could’nt get the bats going……..funney people are quick to get onthe bats when for the most part they have been swinging adequetly. IMO

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

One last point about tonights game…..Hudson shook off Pratt alot tonight…….mabey Hudson should trust the vetran catcher or mabey Mccan shoud start for him……..hard not to trust a vetran who guided a rookie pticher to a near no hitter….

By JasonInMaine

June 26, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

Thanks TBFNB

By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)

June 26, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

oh yeah one more….lol………the bullpen hasnt given up but 1 run in the last about 12 innings……..

By Mo Green

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

Since there is no team dumb enough to relieve us of Chipper Jones, I’d start taking serious offers for Tim Hudson, the Braves only marketable commodity. I could see the Yankees, RedSox & Dodgers lining up. We could get much needed bullpen help and a leadoff man.

By Mo Green

June 26, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

Since there is no team dumb enough to relieve us of Chipper Jones, I’d start taking serious offers for Tim Hudson, the Braves only marketable commodity. I could see the Yankees, RedSox & Dodgers lining up. We could get much needed bullpen help and a leadoff man.

By Mo Green

June 26, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this

Since there is no team dumb enough to relieve us of Chipper Jones, I’d start taking serious offers for Tim Hudson, the Braves only marketable commodity. I could see the Yankees, RedSox & Dodgers lining up. We could get much needed bullpen help and a leadoff man.

By Mike

June 26, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

If we were allowed 9 DH’s against most of the American League right now, we would still have a tough time winning. It’s all about attitude and we don’t have the right one for being competitive. Remember how the juices were flowing last September with all the emotion?? Firing Pendleton and getting someone in there with a clue on teaching them to put the ball in play instead of long ball is the first step. We used to win games 1-0 and 3-2 with Maddux, Glavine,Smoltz and so on because we’ve NEVER been able to hit well. Don’t discount the fact that the NL East has also sucked for so long…now that the others have improved, we can’t keep up. Atlanta is burning like Sherman with a flamethrower.

By Ron

June 26, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

Hudson sure is pitching like a # 1 starter, NOT. We really needed a big game from him tonight and he blew it the first two innings.

By Franklins Tower

June 26, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

This Braves team is a sad collection of mishaps. We spend the 1st portion of the year with the closers blowing everything in sight and now that the closers seem to be doing better, our starting pitching and offense fail us.

Dave brings up a good point about “what if” certain minor leaguers had been called up earlier in the season. If Cox and JS had tried a few earlier, I can pretty much guarantee the Braves would be no worse in the standings than they are now. Cox’s loyalty has single handedly ruined multiple postseasons as well as this year.

Now that the run is over, the talk can shift to all the playoff underperformances and how many WS titles the Braves should have collected. With as good as Cox has been in the regular season, he is twice as bad in the postseason. I hope he is not part of our next run.

By Todd A

June 26, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

On a brighter note….only 67 days to kick off with Western Kentucky.

By Bootlegger

June 26, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

Billion dollar “Huddy” gets rocked worse than a newborn baby—-then a $2 dollar rookie comes in and shuts down the mighty Yawnks—-Priceless!

By journalist jimmy smith

June 26, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

when it gets too hot in the kitchen for this journalist then this journalist gets the hell out of the kitchen,,kitchen on fire right now, too hot for journalist, journalist sit in back yard sipping tea with DOB.

By Eric C.

June 26, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

Hudson is just an average pitcher…sigh.

By Baseball Genius

June 26, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this

Well DOB I’m not really sure what we can blog about tomorrow, the Braves provide no fodder——you see I’m a witty Baseball Genius just like some of these other bloggers——we most likely would have to bring in the Arsehole Genius to deal with you——isn’t that right nathan?

By Kentavo

June 26, 2006 11:56 PM | Link to this

Hey guys, just wait til Reitsma comes off the DL!!!!!!!!

By ernesto

June 26, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

Huddy as our Ace is going to be a problem. I’m just hoping this is noticed - and not built around.

By Tony Almeida

June 27, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this

WHAT THE HELL IS MCCANN DOING ON THE BENCH????

BOBBY COX, JOHN SCHUERHOLTZ…IDIOTS!!!!!

By jon

June 27, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this

I really don’t understand our most consistent hitter on the bench. I love Bobby, but THAT WAS STUPID

By flbravesgirl

June 27, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this

At least Kevin Barry made a good debut. The bullpen has actually looked decent the past few games. It sure would be nice if the Braves could get the offense, SP and bullpen firing on all cylinders for a while. It seems we only get one part working at a time this season. I have no illusions about winning the division at this point but a respectable record would make me feel a lot better. I still believe this team is better than they’ve played.

By Kentavo

June 27, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

McCann must be hurting and they aren’t telling anybody - Pratt has started last 3 out of 4 games, and tonight’s start makes no sense.

By Terrence Moore

June 27, 2006 12:20 AM | Link to this

Da Braves jus needs mo brothas on da team,,,tru dat fo sho dawg!

By Brian

June 27, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this

I couldn’t even finish reading this blog. It makes me sick to think of what happened in the 1996 World Series.

By Jim Leyritz

June 27, 2006 12:47 AM | Link to this

Hey,,,I own you bi tches!…

By Bob, journalist

June 27, 2006 01:06 AM | Link to this

I’ve never been a Terrence Moore fan … indeed, my recent post voicing concern over the the tone of some of the AJC articles followed my having read some of his most recent.

However, I’m compelled to comment that the above post “Da Braves jus needs mo brothas on da team,,,tru dat fo sho dawg!” holding him to ridicule isn’t humor … it’s boorish tripe that’s beneath contempt.

By berigan

June 27, 2006 06:19 AM | Link to this

If we don’t consider trading Smoltz, Hudson, Andruw Jones, how are we going to get better if we can’t increase payroll? 92 Million is the payroll according to Espn.(Don’t know if that includes what Boston is paying of Renteria’s contract) If we could trade Smoltz to Detroit for 21 year old, 101 MPH throwing rookie reliever Joel Zumaya,(2.43 ERA, 37 innings, 46 strike outs) and perhaps another pitching prospect, why not?
Hudson is cheap, but he is not a #1, or 2 starter anymore, it appears. Get some hard throwing prospects for him!(The teams that win the W.S. rarely do it with crafty pitchers like Glavine and Maddox) and we are already in last place, what do we have to lose, except the inability to sign/trade quality players.

Teams like the Red Sox and Yankees will be more than willing to deal come late July. Heck, if Smoltz was willing to play for either of them, the other team would about trade the farm to keep the other team from getting him, cuz whoever would win that bidding war would most likely keep the other team from getting into/advancing in the Playoffs. Since Gary Sheffield is likely done with the Yankees after this year, they could easily pay Andruw what he is going to want long term, and move Johnny Damon to left. Imagine what we could get for Andruw(perhaps in a 3 way trade, the Reds have about 6 legit full time outfielders) IF we traded Smoltz, Hudson, and Andruw, we would have a 62 Million payroll I believe(I seem to recall DOB mentioning that Smoltz may be paid less next year, but can’t recall) meaning we could have a lot of money to go out and get some good relievers, and a First baseman(LaRoche is still on pace for 85-90 RBI’s in under 500 A.B.s), or Left fielder if needed. Or, we can do nothing…we all know where that has gotten us.

By Bobby Cox

June 27, 2006 07:21 AM | Link to this

Gee, Skip. We sure could have used Remmie last night against the Yankees. His leadership presence will sure be missed in our bullpen. I’m sure he’ll catch on with another team.

Yep, we gave McCann a much-needed night off. To have an old seasoned veteran like Todd Pratt is a luxury we need to take more advantage of.

Huddy actually pitched better than what the box score might suggest. If it wasn’t for those two pitches to Giambi that got away, it would have been a different outcome for sure.

Duh.

By ELH

June 27, 2006 07:27 AM | Link to this

The Braves need another hitting coach. Someone need to teach the players not to swing at the first pitch and work the pitcher deeper into the count. There are too many free swingers on this team.

By Robert Disenchanted

June 27, 2006 08:06 AM | Link to this

Ever since Huddy became a Brave he has not lived up to his billing and stats. He is a pitcher who gets behind in the count and when his sinker is not working he gets hit hard. I think the Braves should deal him before the trade deadline for prospects because they will never win consistently with Hudson on the mound. Matbe there will be some takers!!

By Robert Disenchanted

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

How can anyone on the BLOG say Hudson pitched good. He had already thrown 62 pitches by the secoond innning and he was behind hitters. Hudson inability to throw strikes is his worst enemy. When Giambi hit the second home run he had just fouled off some pitches, where he was right on. He was looking for the sinker and Huddy and Pratt should have changed the pitch and location. I think this is one of the reasons why McDowell came out after the 3 run homer and chewed Huddy a little bit. Huddy does not pitch smart in crucial situations. Anyone care to disagree??

By Zippy

June 27, 2006 08:18 AM | Link to this

Tim Hudson is the most marketable player on the roster. He could bring us many missing pieces, and free up some payroll to enable JS some room to target further improvement, like a leadoff hitter w/speed, bullpen help, and a stud firstbaseman.

Start taking offers ! I could see the Dodgers, RedSox & Yankees trying to outbid each other. This is Hudson second consecutive mediocre year and his value will only go down. His numbers do not justify the money he is getting. Move him now while you can !

By Robert Disenchanted

June 27, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

While Zippy I agree whole hardly! Js and the BC, know as the Donkey aren’t smart enough. JS is too shrewd to realize he made a mistake with Huddy. BC just likes veterans. Hey Bobby why don’t you ask the MArlins manager how youth is working in south Florida. You need to retire and JS I hope the new Braves management says you need to go and sigh books at the discount bookstore. This smells like Kansas City Royals in the 1980’s when you ran that team into the ground.

By Kent

June 27, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

Does anybody bother to read blogs where someone makes a retarded attempt to pass temselves off as someone like Bobby Cox. I know I don’t. Get a life!

By KneeJerk

June 27, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

Keep your “funny” comments to yourselves. I think the reason Cox played Laroche and not McCann is that (unless I’m mistaken) we don’t have a right-handed option at first, but we do at catcher. Robdawg, you post waaaaaay too much, with just plain stoopid trade possibilities. You can’t get good players by trading crap. Oh, and I wouldn’t trade Cox for Leyland. Leyland has QUIT 3 teams (Pirates, Marlins, Rockies). Leyland has had a good first half, with the Tigers not playing well against the White Sox, Yankees, or Red Sox. Say what you want about Cox, but he’s a fighter not a quitter. Leyland can quit everything but smoking.

By KneeJerk

June 27, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

Robert, Cox only likes veterans? Apparently you’ve forgotten 2005.

By Kent

June 27, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

Zippy, You’re probably right in saying that Husdon is the most marketable player on the team. But the only reason he would have so much trade value is that everyone in baseball knows that he’s a much better pitcher than the way he’s been throwing lately. I think we have to keep that in mind as well.

I said in jest last night “TRADE HIM!” But the reality is that it’s hard to come by a pitcher the calibur of Tim Hudson, and he’ll get it ironed out.

Also keep in mind that he’s only making 6 million next season (it sounds funny to put 6 million and the word “only” in the same sentence, but by major league standards…) so we wouldn’t free up all that much payroll for 2007 by trading him now.

Besides, the Braves would need to wait and see how the rest of the rotation (after Smoltz and Hudson) performs… Chuck James, Heracio Ramirez, and when he returns, Kyle Davies. If H.Ramirez contiues to throw like he has recently, and C.James continues to impress… then with Mike Hampton coming back next season, maybe we could afford to trade Hudson. But I think if they were to trade him (though it’s unlikely), it would probably be in the offseason as opposed to dealing him by the trade deadline.

By zippy

June 27, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

Throwing LATELY?

Look at Hudson’s record since he’s been a Brave ! Theres a dramatic dropoff since he left Oakland.

I gave him the benefit of the doubt last season. But I see an average to mediocre pitcher at best.

When I read what the Dodgers are offering for Dontrelle Willis, Schuerholz had better pick up the phone and start taking offers for Hudson !

By Bart

June 27, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

It’s interesting that the Braves were beaten last night by two homers by Jason Giambi. According to the “Game of Shadows” by Mark Fainaru-Wada and Lance Williams, Giambi was one of the players who was into a “juice” regimen. He’s nothing but a cheat. All of his stats suspect and he’s a disgrace to to the game of baseball. After his homers, I didn’t hear a word about Giambi’s “juicing” in any of last night’s play-by-play commentary on Turner South. I think broadcasters should expose these cheats for what they are. I hope Giambi is being closly watched by the commissioner’s office, and that he will be severly dealt with if he ever tests positive.

By The Baseball Whisperer

June 27, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

Now that this season is all but in the books, time to reflect on the Braves run. While they have owned the regular season for 14 years, they have fallen well short in their postseason trips. The Braves failed to capitalize given the number of times they got to the postseason. Of all the WS winners listed below, the Braves have the worst percentage of titles versus trips to the postseason.

WS winners from 1990(trips to postseason/WS winning %)

1990- Reds (2 trips- .500) 1991- Twins (4 trips- .250) 1992- Blue Jays (3 trips- .666) 1993- Bluejays (3 trips- .666) 1994- Strike 1995- Braves (14 trips- .071) 1996- Yankees (11 trips- .363) 1997- Marlins (2 trips- 1.00) 1998- Yankees (11 trips- .363) 1999- Yankees (11 trips- .363) 2000- Yankees (11 trips- .363) 2001- Diamondbacks (3 trips- .333) 2002- Angels (3 trips- .333) 2003- Marlins (2 trips- 1.00) 2004- Red Sox (7 trips- .142) 2005- White Sox (3 trips- .333)

By **JOHN B.**

June 27, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

Why the he** was Pratt starting for McCann? McCann is hitting .352 this year and just had a day off on Sunday. Granted he is only hitting .179 against left handers, but Pratt is hitting .167 against left handers.

Bobby Cox is losing it. He feels he needs to platoon a guy hitting .352. That’s absurd. Of course, he must be confused because he can’t bring Remlinger in to face left handed hitters, or bring Reitsma in for the 9th or play Jordan at 1st agaisnt left handers. Why the he** can’t he just play the numbers. They don’t lie.

By jerry

June 27, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this

The Braves announcers have gone from bragging ad nauseam to whining ad nauseam.Go Yankees.Kick their phony a**es.

By just4fun

June 27, 2006 09:37 AM | Link to this

Just wait ‘til Reitsma gets the feeling back in his hand … we’re gonna’ send him to Richmond to stretch out his innings and make him our ace starter next year … then the rotation will be Reitsma, Huddy, Smoltzie, Hammy & LaRoche (who by the way is the son of a great pitcher so we’re gonna make him pitch). Then we will trade Chuck James for Danny Kolb to anchor the bullpen and be our closer. The rest of the bullpen will be (if we can sign him to another minor league contract) Remlinger, the situational lefty; the Devine kid, Sosa, Paronta, Barry & McBride. —BC

By Kent

June 27, 2006 09:43 AM | Link to this

Zippy, You act like he’s been terrible ever since he got here. He hasn’t.

Tim Hudson was 14-9 with a 3.52 ERA last year. And that’s with him playing hurt for part of the season. Had the bullpen not been so lousy last year (hard to believe it’s even worse this year, YIKES!!!) Hudson would have won 18 games last season.

Believe me, I’m disappointed with the way he’s performing too. I’m sure Tim Hudson is frustrated with the way Tim Hudson is pitching. All I’m saying is that Hudson is a much better pitcher than the way he’s pitching right now. I think he snap out of this funk, and will be an asset to this team. Having said that, if someone is willing to overpay (in talent) for Hudson’s services, we should at least listen. But I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for a Hudson trade. It’s not likely.

By Lew

June 27, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

To quote a famous cartoon character-AAAARRRRRGGGGHHH!

By Kent

June 27, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

JOHN B, Pratt was in there for two reasons: 1-Bobby Cox always gives his everyday catcher a day or two off each week. CATCHER is the most physically demanding position on the field, so Cox has always give his main catcher regular rest.

2-No pitcher in baseball history has been tougher on left handed hitter than Randy Johnson. With the big unit on the mound, it probably seemed as good a day as any to give McCann a little rest.

By Hal

June 27, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

Berigan

We wouldent have to trade Smoltz for Zumala if our esteemed gm had just drafted him .Zumala was still available when our gm picked his kid back in the 2001 draft also available at that time were Brad Halsey,B Fahey and Chuckie James taken about 4 rounds later

By Bobby Cox

June 27, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

Gee, Skip. With Remmie gone, hopefully Reitsma will be rejoining us soon in time for the pennant stretch. He’s pitching “lights out” in our simulated games. He struck out Frenchie, Gilly & Chipper on nine pitches.

I’m thinking about benching McCann again tonight as well. Pratty has been hitting the ball well lately. You saw that homer he hit in Tampa? That was something.

Its a dang shame about Brian Jordan. He’d been hitting well in batting practice.

By Hal

June 27, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

Sorry above post should have read 2002 draft not 2001

By Kent

June 27, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

I REALLY miss seeing/hearing Skip, Pete, Joe, Don, (a nd even Chip) on Turner South!

The thing that makes the REAL Braves announcers so great is that they have personality and don’t sound like stereo-typical announcers.

These other guys are just nowhere near as good. They are boring me to sleep. It’s really going to suck next year when TBS (the only place where the original crew will still be announcing) will only be carrying 35 games. We’re going to have to listen to these other guys on TV all year next season.

Bring back the real Braves annoucers!!!!!!!!

By Zippy

June 27, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

That’s either Bobby Cox or a great impersonation of him. That’s the kind of cornpone that Cox dishes out in his interviews. Not real insightful or profound.

By Raul Mondesi

June 27, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Hey yhoo’s guyz….I can come out of retirements again if yhoo’s guyz needz my helpz….and say, maybez for a meager meeeelion dollarzes!….what yhoo’s guyz tink?

By Todd Hollandsworthless

June 27, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this

Hey, me too!

By Jimbo

June 27, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

I was forced to watch last night’s game on the satellite with Yankees’ broadcasters. Jim Kaat and Al Leiter were basically laughing at the Braves hitting approach (or lack of one). They described perfectly how every pitcher should pitch to the likes of Frenchy, Andruw, Giles and Roach. Isn’t the hiiting coach supposed to help batters with an approach?

They called the Braves “free swingers” which is code for: These guys are so undisclipined, why throw them a strike?

By **JOHN B.**

June 27, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

Kent, My point is that McCann just had Sunday off. And he is hitting better against left handers than Pratt is. So I still think it’s a dumb move. Now, if McCann had played Sunday, then yes, it would make sense to give him Monday off. But Cox has been platooning Pratt and McCann on top of giving McCann a day off each week. He is the best hitter on the club.

I have always been a big supporter of Bobby Cox through the years. I give him credit for the Braves winning divsion titles in years that they should not have.

However, that also can be attributed to the 3 divisions in each league with only 5 teams in each. If Selig would wake up and realize he messed MLB up by making 3 divsions in each league, weak teams would not win division titles. There should be 2 division leaders and one wild card. Give the divsion leader with the best record a 1st round bye. And make the 1st round a 7 game series.

By KneeJerk

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

Randy Johnson is not just any “lefthander”. If you have an option, and especially at catcher, you let the righty hit. Zumala was available, how about Zumaya? Some of the humor in here is about as funny as a kick in the nutz. Someone said “play the numbers. They don’t lie”. Unfortunately, sometimes they do. If the numbers didn’t lie, there would never be a bad decision. Sometimes Rivera blows a save. Sometimes, a no-name like Ken Ray comes in and strikes out Bonds. Managers sometimes have to go with gut feeling.

By Kent

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

JOHN B, Yeah I see your point. I do have to say however that a lot of lefthanded batters who hit lefties well, don’t necessarily hit Randy Johnson well. When Johnson is on, he is a whole other level of difficult for lefthanded batters. I’ll never forget John Kruk in an all-star game switching sides in the middle of an at-bat after R. Johnson buzzed one under his chin. That was funny stuff!

Hey, the division setup could be worse. It could be the NBA where everybody makes the playoffs. They actually have 6 divisions in the NBA as well, which is silly. Why have divisions? I mean, winning a division doesn’t mean anything when over half the teams in the league make the playoffs each year. It’s not like baseball where winning the division means you actually accomplished something. Anyway, enough about the NBA.

I agree with you about the first round of the playoffs. Baseball should NEVER use a 5 game series in any round!

By Kent

June 27, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this

Anyone know where I can get some HUMAN GROWTH HORMONE? Jason Giambi won’t return my calls and I don’t know who else to ask.

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Kent, how can you possibly suggest Giambi’s on that stuff? Oh, the cynicism… (i’m smiling as i write that sentence)

Nathan, why not trade for A-Rod? Oh, I don’t know, other than that fact he would be nearly ONE-THIRD OF THE ENTIRE PAYROLL!!! (and if you believe some who predict payroll will drop to $65 mill under new owners, he’d be nearly 40 percent).

By JasonInMaine

June 27, 2006 11:31 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I know you get sick of this question, but what do you see the Braves doing now that they are 16 out? I wonder what the trade was the other day the fell through at the last minute. Also, what did you think of Gammons’ thoughts that were posted yesterday?

Regards, Jason

By Kent

June 27, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

Noooo Dave! I wasn’t suggesting that he’s on the stuff… merely that he might have some idea where to get it. That’s all.

By Phat Bat Boy

June 27, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

DOB, so what are left-handers batting against Hudson these days? .600 and an .800 slugging percentage? And did you ever take a look at what percentage of our payroll is spent on the bullpen? I am guessing between 5-8% which is probably the lowest of any team that entered this season with a thought of going to the post-season. That’s why we MUST trade away at least $5M in salaries in the next few weeks. If our internal budget is not going to increase, then how on earth will we ever secure 2 dependable relievers for this team? Yeah, $80M is plenty to build a winning team, but who is building a winning bullpen with $4M?

By geauxbraves2000

June 27, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this

Has anyone ever noticed that almost every pitcher who faces the Braves seems “to be on his game”?

By Kent

June 27, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000, Ya know, it’s funny you should say that because… yes, I’ve noticed that as well. The offense needs help.

We don’t need to worry about the rotation. It will be just fine (especially next year with the return of Hampton). But we do need a little help in the lineup, and obviously a LOT of help in the bullpen before next season starts.

By Kentavo

June 27, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

I just wish JS would do something!! Anything. Releasing Reeksma would be a good move. Then Jordan.

Let’s see, I’m guessing BC said after last night’s game, “Well Chip was hitting the ball real good. Huddy just left a few pitches up in the zone, and Giami hit ‘em. How about that Kevin Barry?”

By Mets Stink

June 27, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Hampton’s going to save the rotation. We’ll get what, 2 maybe 3 months out of him before he gets hurt.

By JasonInMaine

June 27, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

Mets Stink,

I am with you…if we are counting on Hudson, Hampton, and Smoltz to be a dominant rotation next year, we may be in trouble. Smoltz is still good and can have a great game at anytime, but Hudson simply hasn’t been very good, Smoltz is getting older, and Hampton has missed a year. He was good with the Braves and had a great 2nd half the year before last, but he hasn’t been dominant.

Regards, Jason

By Patrick

June 27, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

DOB,

That isn’t true about the payroll drop is it? If so, how in the hell can Bud Selig approve such a thing. Corporate ownerships taking a once pround franchise and driving it straight into the ground. Turner Field doesn’t pack the house for the playoffs, do they honestly think that people will come when that have the same payroll as the pirates or brewers?

By Kent

June 27, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

Mets Stink (nice name) & JasonInMaine, I don’t mean to be a contrarian, but a couple of quick points:

1- Of course no one can predict what will Happen with Hampton or anyone else. However, it’s amazing how far they’ve come with the “Tommy John” surgery. Players who have had all kinds of injury trouble before having the surgery, actually seem to have far fewer problems after having this procedure. Doctors say that it takes 18 months to fully recover from Tommy John surgery, which is exactly how much will have passed for Hampton at the start of next season. If you look at the success that other pitchers have had (especially from that 18-month-after mark onward), it’s very encouraging. And while it seems Hampton has been around forever, he’s only 33. That’s not old (even in baseball years).

2- I was throwing things at the TV just like everyone else lastnight, but I think it’s a little early to be selling all your Tim Hudson stock. I mentioned this in an earlier blog but, the guy was 14-9 with a 3.52 ERA for us last year. And that’s with him playing hurt part of the season. If the bullpen hadn’t been so aweful, he would have won 17 or 18 games for us last year. He’s a proven stud, so let’s not get too carried away here.

3-We’re not just relying on Smoltz, Hudson, and Hampton next year.

Heracio Ramirez made a couple of adjustments when he came off the DL, and he’s been terrific lately! He’s shown flashes of greatness before, and everyone in the Braves organization has shown a lot of confidence in him. So I think he might well be fulfilling his potential (as opposed to a flukey good stretch of starts).

Everyone in Atlanta is excited about Chuck James. Not just because of one great start, but becasue of what The Braves saw in him when he pitched out of the bullpen earlier this season, as well as his minor league dominance. Not to mention a positive “gut feeling everyone in baseball that’s seen this kid throw seems to have about him.

And don’t forget Kyle Davies, who has a world of potential.

No, it’s not just Smoltz, Hudson, and Hampton, put that’s a pretty darn good start.

By Tomahawkin

June 27, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this

My thoughts on last nite’s game that I watched on ESPN…

Hudson was Shytti at first but he did settle down a little, but still he has not impressed me much since he got here…

I think Giambi is back on some stufF, I said 2 years ago when Whinebrenner was threatening to ship him off, For him it was either go to the minors or get on some undetectable stuff to save his career

Oh yea why the he!! was McCann not starting, but LaRoche was…and maybe last nite was the beginning of Chippers turnaround…

I used to be a big hater of Derek Jeter, but after watching him hustle on every play and play the game like it supposed to be played gave me nuff respect 4 him

And After listening to Gary Thorne and Rick SUCKCliffe you guys should be thankful you have turner south. That Yankee love affair/game on ESPN last Nite was horrible,

SUCKCliffe has no idea on what he is talking about whenb he says “CHIPPER REMINDS ME OF JETER ON THE WAY THEY PLAY THE GAME” Man Please!!!

Oh yea D.O.B. I had no Idea that you like dat SouthernplayalisticCadilliacMuzik CD, Its a Classic, Mainstream America knows nothing about that CD, You Should Listen to NAS’s 1st CD “Illmatic” Its a Classic as well, and yet mainstream America doesn’t know anything about that either…

By Tomahawkin

June 27, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

I got so bored watching that anemic offense last nite, I flipped to the CWS, and to RAW, MORA the same tonite especially if its a blowout in da late innings I’ll be watching ECW

I am so SICK Of seeing Francoeur, LaRoche, ans Giles swing for the fences every ab-bat, mo-so every 1st pitch, p-s-ses me off as much as our blowpen…

By Kent

June 27, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

I would be shocked if payroll were significantly reduced under Liberty Media. According to JS, the Braves have run a slight defecit each season in recent years, but nothing unreasonable.

So why wouldn’t Liberty Media drop the payroll further and try and actually show a profit?

Because, they would have to cut payroll quite a bit to ourpace the dropoff in attendace that would result from that kind of cost-cutting. And if they did that, it could actually affect the value of the franchise.

Time Warner lost a little bit of money each season, but they’re about to make it all back and then some when the sale of the team is complete. The value of the Atlanta Braves frachise appreciated significantly over the last several years. That means the value of the franchise was growing in value at a greater rate than they were losing money. In the end, Time Warner comes out ahead.

I don’t see any reason why Liberty Media wouldn’t follow the same business model. Apparently, in order to fully reap all of the tax benefits from buying the Braves, there’s something in the tax code that will require them to keep the team for a few years. But at the end of those few years, the Braves will probably be up for sale once again. I think the biggest thing Liberty wants is to get top-dollar from their resale of the franchise, and to not lose much money on it in the meantime. Just my 2 cents.

By JasonInMaine

June 27, 2006 01:55 PM | Link to this

Kent,

Your point is well taken. I think James is going to be good, but I think Horacio may not be in the rotation. It depends on Hampton and Davies recovering from injuries. My point about Hampton is that he wasn’t particularly great before his injury. Now again, he did have a pretty dominant 2nd half two years ago. I was simply trying to point out that it has been a while since he was a stud. Could he be good, yes. I just don’t think Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton make up a “big three” is all.

Hudson’s stats have been on the decline for a few years now. ERA, strikeout to walk ratio, hits allowed, and win/loss percentage.

Regards, Jason

By Tomahawkin

June 27, 2006 01:59 PM | Link to this

Oh yea, taking 2 of 3 from the rays is nothing, just like when we swept the cubs and marlins, We take 2 of three from the Yankees and sweep the Cardinals at least once then I guess that can be the highlight of a Shytti first half, Sweeps against bottom market teams mean little to me. I think we need to quit trying to hit homeruns and play scrappy ABC Offense agianst above .500 teams on order 4 us to try and stomp with the big dawgs…

By Kentavo

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

My wife is not a baseball fan by any stretch of the imagination, but I watch Braves so much she has caught on to a few things. Even she can tell that the Braves are impatient at the plate. She knows that the name of the game is get ‘em on, move ‘em over, get ‘em in. Too bad Bobby Cox and the boys don’t know this fundamental strategy.

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this

Sorry, folks. I sent AJC. com a new blog more than an hour ago and I just got back from lunch and saw it’s not posted. Oh, well.

You’ll get it when you get it, I guess.

By Kent

June 27, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

Jason, I hear what you’re saying, but let me offer just a couple more counterpoints in our great rotation debate :o)

First of all, if Ramirez keeps pitching as he has… he’ll be in the rotation! If he can get the job done tonight in Yankee stadium, that will be a very good sign.

I would argue that Hudson’s stats haven’t been declining. Hudson’s ERA last year (3.52) was almost identical to what it had been the previous year in Oakland. And again, he was playing hurt part of the year. When he was healthy, he was impressive (with the exception of game 1 of the NLDS of course). Obviously Tim’s over-4 ERA this year is a big step down, but there’s a lot of season left.

Mike Hampton’s first 1/2 season with the Braves was rough. I think you have to cut him some slack for that though. When he first came here from the Rockies, he had to completely rediscover his mechanics and his way of pitching. He is just one on a pretty good sized list of pitchers who’s head and mechanics were screwed up in Denver.

Since the half-way point of the 2003 season, Hampton has gone 25-15 with an ERA around 3.50. That’s pretty much in line with what he’s always done if you look at his career (non Rockies) numbers. He’s not going to win a CY award next year, but if he’s healthy ( and he should be), he’ll be solid.

Smoltz is past his prime, but still a very good pitcher, and one of the top guys any manager in baseball would pick to start a big postseason game.

I think they qualify as a big 3. But keep an eye on James, Ramirez, and Davies. Atlanta just might have a BIG 5 next year!

By Chop Chop

June 27, 2006 02:41 PM | Link to this

Sung to the tune of “I Want A New Drug” by Huey Lewis and The News:

I want a new blog.

One that won’t make me sick.

One that won’t freeze my screen too long.

One that loads really quick.

(And yeah, Huey Lewis is terrible, but I just happened to hear that song this morning…)

By Calvin

June 27, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

Why aren’t people talking more about the performance of Barry? I think he did a relatively good job considering he was facing the no.2 run producing team in the AL.

By chopthis

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

Hey Dave the Hack —

Reason we haven’t seen your post yet is there’s probably a mandatory proof on it from now on. Wait until the copy editor fixes the mistakes, Braves fans!

2007: Braves over Tigers in 8! (oops)

By berigan

June 27, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

Hmmm, who could we have playing against lefties at first base??? I see Julio Franco is batting .322, and Mark DeRosa is batting .342 for Texas….

By David O'Brien

June 27, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

Hey Chopthis, you’re weak.

Chopthis, by the way.

By robdawg06

June 27, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

kneejerk, I got something you can jerk… A stupid trade proposal is better than no trade which our GM gives us. Nada.

By robdawg06

June 27, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

I thought I was the only one that noticed players have greener pastures after they leave Atlanta ? Franco,DeRosa,Millwood,Estrada,W.Helms,J.D. Drew,and even in Basketball (Jason Terry & Boris Diaw). Can Georgia play Western Kentucky THIS weekend please ?

By Kent

June 27, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this

robdawg06, ever hear the saying “Sometimes the best trade is the one you don’t make”? It’s often true you know.

By A Nobody

June 27, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

Kent, you have made some excellent points. I’m in agreement with most of them. Great minds, etc…. lol

By Kent

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

Thanks A Nobody! I like posting in these blogs since everyone around me in the real world is sick of hearing my opinions by now! :o)

By RoosterCockBurn

June 28, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

I think that DOB really needs to get layed—but the “only” way could happen would be for DOB to crawl up a hen’s azs—and wait!…

By Kent

June 28, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

RoosterC… You’re an idiot. But I’m probably not telling you anything you don’t already know.

By Kent

June 28, 2006 12:59 PM | Link to this

What happened to “Swagger’s Gone” blog????

By TennesseePaul

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

I guess the Swagger really is gone.
Mark DeRosa is batting .342 for Texas
I remember DeRosa had his shot with the Braves and proceeded to melt down into nothingness while single handedly losing multiple games with horrid fielding and lack of production. He then followed that up with a broken leg. I’m glad to see he is doing well, but I am not at all disappointed that we don’t have him… we would have had to sit through that crap for two years before he started producing again.

Great game last night. That’s some solid pitching from the rotation and the pen lately. I think we are on to something here. These little re-adjustments of roles have helped improve this team dramatically. HoRam has been amazing. Lance wasn’t so bad on Saturday. The pen was great every day from the 23 on. Seems the only pitcher not on the same page is Hudson. I look forward to a solid showing from Smoltz tonight. I hope his injury is truly healed.

By TennesseePaul

June 28, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

robdawg: Franco,DeRosa,Millwood,Estrada,W.Helms,J.D. Drew. DeRosa is in his first green field since he left several years ago. Millwood left and had 4 straight losing seasons. Estrada was an All-Star with the Braves, so his pasture was pretty green here. JD Drews career year happened while with the Braves, then he left, signed with LA and headed straight to the DL for the majority of last year. W. Helms has taken forever to do much of anything. But Franco. Franco is a different story. I don’t know that that man will ever stop being solid. He was great while with the Braves, Indians, Mets, Korea, Japan, Mexico, Guam, Antartica, and where ever else he’s played. I’d much rather have him than Jordan, but whatayagonnado?

Besides, we also have the thrills of watching all the ex-Brave-now-Yankee pitchers suck it up on the big stage in NY. I love it. I love that we beat them last night. We hit Wright. We hit Fransworthless. Neither of those pastures are looking too green right now even with all that money spread out over the field.

By RoosterCockBurn

June 29, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this

Kent…or is that Kunt…mind your own f******* business bytch!!!

By Go Bravos

July 4, 2006 01:27 AM | Link to this

The yankees spent 106 million dollars more, on players, than the Braves this year.

Keep telling yourself it’s the great coaching that makes Torre better than Cox, and not the previous stat.

My girlfriend is from NY and annoys me when she talks about the Yankees. When the Braves beat the Yankes 5-2 in the 2nd of 3, I got no love from her. The next night, Sosa (he makes 2.2mil a year and has a 2-10 record: USA = land of opportunity, even for scrubs) gave up the 2 run game winning homer to A-Rod, and I wanted to take a dump in her nose.

Go Braves.