AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2006 > June > 27 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USThe swagger’s gone
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The great Dorothy Parker used to hold court with other poets and writers at the famed “Algonquin Round Table” at the Algonquin Hotel in New York.
It was Dorothy _ not William Shakespeare, as some believe _ who uttered the line, “What fresh hell is this?”
She could have been talking about this Braves season, as the once-proud jewel of NL franchises goes from town to town, getting hammered and reading reports in every city of how the mighty have fallen.
It’s interesting to see it from this perspective. The adoring crowds (or E-bay autograph seekers) still form a gauntlet outside the Braves bus when it arrives at hotels and ballparks, and there are still hundreds, if not thousands, of Braves cap and T-shirt wearing fans in every road park. But it’s not the same. When you’re 4-20 in a month, the swagger can’t be the same, and it’s not with this team.
It feels a little _ just a little _ like it does watching my favorite NBA team, the Boston Celtics, when they come to Atlanta. The once-proud C’s are a joke to many younger fans who are only vaguely aware they were once the premier franchise in hoops, if not all of sports.
Now, I’m not AT ALL SUGGESTING THIS IS GOING TO HAPPEN TO THE BRAVES, so don’t start with me on that. Don’t write a post saying I’m suggesting it. If you do, well, it has no relation to what I’m saying. All I’m saying is that right now, this month, the Braves are a bit sad to watch. That’s all. You want to take it farther, feel free, but I’m not. Personally, I think they’ll be a contender for the NL East again next year. Not the favorite, though, not unless the Mets don’t keep Glavine and don’t have him and Pedro healthy atop their rotation. The lineup will be lethal again, that’s a given.
Anyway, I’m not going to get into a bunch of stats or try to break down the team’s flaws or needs today. Too many of you chiming in with “what’s the point of going over this” and “this blog is dead” comments in recent days for me to spend a lot of time trying to come up with a bunch of numbers or suggestions on what needs to be done. Feel free to do so yourselves, as always.
On a brighter note, the Atlanta concert scene never has a year as bad as the Braves are having. Not until you live or travel to other cities and try to find good bands to see and good shows to attend do you realize just how good we music fans have it in Atlanta. OUTSTANDING music city, especially if you include the hip Athens scene in the picture.
Ryan Adams in July and Flaming Lips in September, just two more recent additions to a concert lineup that sure blows away what the Braves are running out there lately.
Oh, by the way: Remind me to let you know if I find out how last night’s postgame night on the town went for Chipper and Frenchy, who went out with “The Captain” _ aka King of New York _ Derek Jeter on his 32nd birthday last night. Now that’s living large.
Later
Services »
Comments
By RobC
June 27, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this
Hopefully they pitched in to buy a few rounds for “The Captain” in hopes it’ll slow him down a bit tonight….
By Austin
June 27, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this
DOB you have any plans for running for president in ‘08?
By chopthis
June 27, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
The Braves should have sat Chipper for Jeter’s party and sent Betemit instead. And Thorman should have partied for Francoeur.
By hk
June 27, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
… got to be a tough beat for you right now, dob, coming up with a fresh look day after day … interesting though, posting has not dropped off at all, if anything it has increased … when you think about it though, what’s going on right now is high on drama, really historic to witness …
… ‘MVP’ numbers through last night …
Year End…..Runs…Homers…RBI’s…MVP
Andruw……..97……38……135….269
Francoeur…..78……32……116….225
Chipper…….90……17…….79….185
LaRoche…….69……23…….82….175
Renteria……88……17…….63….168
Giles………86…….8…….50….145
McCann……..46……11…….46….103
Langerhans….46…….8…….34…..88
Betemit…….36……11…….32…..78
for curves click here
By Kentavo
June 27, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this
Is Frenchy old enough to drink?
By deadhead
June 27, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this
yo DOB
man 2nd week in july you me and some hunnies need to hit up that atl music scene. we got les claypool playing mon the 10th then peter frampton livin large on that wednesday. that thurs dark star orchestra at the masquerade. and to top it all!!! TREY MIKE AND THE DUO ON THAT SATURDAY!! S**!
HIT ME UP ASAP
By RobC
June 27, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this
hk, can you explain the “mvp” numbers? Idea looks interesting, just don’t understand the 3-year histories or how they were obtained.
By Brent
June 27, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this
Well, not much to talk about since DOB said basically nothing.
Aside from that - it is always interesting to note the large number of Braves fans across the country.
Yes, it is somewhat due to their success in the 90’s, but it’s also largely due to WTBS.
When I was 3 years old, that was the team on TV, and I didn’t care if they were good or bad.
Now, with the Braves slipping off of the national stage (TBS-wise), expect to see the popularity dwindle as well.
But, that’s not really a problem.
What I’m more interested in saying is this: People who say that the Braves don’t have good fans are missing the bigger picture.
Braves fans show up en masse, all over the country, to see the team they’ve followed on cable all of their lives.
Don’t take it out on Braves fans collectively, just because fans who actually live in Atlanta, can’t find time to show up for a 4:00 PM play-off game on a Tuesday in October.
Braves fans are great, and the large # that showed up in New York to cheer them on is evidence of that.
By The Grinch
June 27, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this
Hey, Guys, did you hear Bobby after the game last night? “Huddy wasn’t at his best.” No S#@$! He’s officially taken over the title “Captain Obvious” from John Madden.
By The Grinch
June 27, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this
Did Chipper and Frenchy strike out at the bar, too?
By Carroll
June 27, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this
Grinch: probably not…when it comes to women, Chipper puts forth full effort (how many babies has he sired now and from how many different women?)….evidentally, it’s not like that half-assed crap we see on the field every day.
By Rick
June 27, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this
I have always hated the DH rule. It was basically instituted to bring more offense to baseball and make it appealing to the fans. How can they call baseball the traditional game if they jumped the shark by adding the DH rule.
By Andy Ashby
June 27, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this
Does anyone else notice that probably 90% of the time when the Braves face an opposing pitcher who is either a rookie, or has an ERA over 5 they cannot hit or score any runs? Am i the only one who notices this? Why can’t the annoucers admit that they suck instead of saying that the opposing pitcher is “lights out” or “he looks back on track tonight”?
By Sammy Kershaw
June 27, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
I love how geniouses like The Grinch here expect Bobby Cox to just go out and completely rip apart his team every night.
What do you want him to say he is the freakin manager and these guys are his players. If he said what you wanted him to say he would just be another fair weather “supporter” like most of you people.
By Franklins Tower
June 27, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this
DOB: Now you understand why Harry Cary was so good at what he did. With the Cubs being bad, Harry constantly had to come up with non-baseball material to keep the audience interested. Remember “look at the kid in the sombrero” comment? I am less optimistic than you that next year will bear fruit. If I am right, you may as well get your offtopic information together now for the coming months.
What is your position on Cox? I personally think his time passed years ago but would enjoy your comments on whether he is the guy to lead the Braves back to a WS title.
By BOB C
June 27, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this
Grinch - Captain Obvious - I thought that title had been retired by Joe Morgan. While on the broadcast theme, it really stinks that those of us outisde the Atlanta market pay some pretty hefty bucks for MLB extra innings and then have Fox dump Torborg and whatshisname on us instead of the guys most of us grew up with.
By Rick
June 27, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this
I agree with you Franklins but who do you want to replace him with. Remember, the Braves do not pay the coaches or managers alot of salary so no big name manager is going to come here.
By rowland
June 27, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this
Sad that AJC has reassigned DOB the party and music beat. Dodgers made a move today that the Braves would have made in previous years—-got a starting pitcher from a bad team in exchange for practically nothing. I wonder if Betemit’s underwhelming play of late has stopped a potential deal involving Giles, who BA is down to .236.
By RobC
June 27, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this
Rick, Regardless of whether you want Cox gone, what “big name manager” would you bring in? The only ones available are people who were fired for not being good enough with other teams….
By michael
June 27, 2006 04:18 PM | Link to this
Why don’t the Braves coaching staff talk with Francoeur about swinging at so many pitches outside the strike zone. He needs to gain more patience. Last night was the first time he saw Randy Johnson and he took a swing at the first pitch.
By ernesto
June 27, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this
There are a lot of things about this team that you just have to say, “well, what can you do?” But our hitting approach isn’t one of them. I love TP, but either he’s got no control over the hitters or a bad philosophy, either way I think we need someone new. And we’re too damn home run happy.
By CW
June 27, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this
The only thing I can relate this to is the 0-19 snide in 1982 that was broken up by Pascual Perez getting lost on I-285. I am simply staggered that this team has only won 5 games in their last 27. Is there any other team in baseball with a payroll of $80 million that is playing this poorly?
By Steve
June 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this
The Braves are a case of “how many sticks can I pull out of this pile before it collapses?”. Ned Yost? Greg Maddux? Tom Glavine? Gary Sheffield? J.D. Drew? Rafael Furcal? Leo Mazzone? After each one, a slightly colder shiver… well, this year we found out, and the pile has finally collapsed. The Braves are clearly a few players short of a good team. Amazing Mr. Cox was able to do what he did with smoke and mirrors the last two years. Watching the Braves in their throwback uniforms with the feathers on their sleeves was like… watching the Braves when they actually wore those uniforms. Thank you for a great run, Mr. Cox. : ) S
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this
The Mets finally have a manager and GM (both are from NY by the way) who seem competant and able to keep the Mets in contention for years to come. This will make it that more difficult for the braves to get back to the top of the NL East.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this
As much as I don’t like the DH, I think it should be the rule for both leagues. I say that because there’s no way the union would ever agree to get rid of the rule. Both the National League and American League are under MLB’s thumb now. There’s no reason to have differing rules. Besides, the offense in the NL would pick up some. Fans like offense, right?
By Lew
June 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this
DOB-I’m an ancient (55) hard rocker. What NEW bands do you think I would like?
By Rick
June 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this
RobC
That was my point in my previous message. Cox is better than what is out there. No big name manager available or not is going to come here because the Braves do not pay their coaching staff big dollars.
By JAYSEN
June 27, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this
It is truly sad and frustrating to see this line-up constantly give opposing pitchers their “season high” in stikeouts. Either TP needs to be replaced or the hitters need a season supply of ear wax remover.
By Rick
June 27, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this
Is it amazing the homeruns hit at Yankee stadium. Who left Chippers HR was a routine fly ball. I know I did. In Atlanta, that shot doesn’t even make the track. Plus, the first Giambi homerun wouldn’t have been out either. Think of all the Yankees who have padded their stats by hitting a homerum 319 feet.
By RobC
June 27, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this
Rick, sorry about the misunderstanding. But even if we DID pay big dollars, the only people I’d consider “big names” compared to Cox are LaRussa or Torre, and I don’t see how either of them would leave their current situation regardless of the money.
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this
To Metsfan: Willie Randolph has little to do with the Mets success: LoDuca, Delgado, Reyes, Wright, Beltran. No “strategizing” needed with that lineup.
By Rick
June 27, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
That’s true Rob. But without the cash you can’t even maybe lure a Pinella or Bowa or anyone else….Cox is our best bet. Remember, he probably will be retiring in a few more years anyway. He has done alot for the organization. Despite the fact that this year has gone well and past years have concluded well, he did help build this franchise and set the standards.
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this
If the Mets didn’t win the division this year, NY would be calling for his head.
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this
KneeJerk I said Manager AND General Manager. I do agree good players make for a good manager but someone still has to steer the ship.
By BIFF POCAROBA
June 27, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up shake up the line-up HOW MANY TIMES MUST I SAY IT BEFORE IT GETS DONE??? I WILL BE AT THE GAME TONIGHT…IT WILL BE THE SAME ORDER AS ALWAYS. MIX IT UP!
By Bobby Cox
June 27, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this
Great news! John just told me that Remmie has been offered a position in our organization. He’ll be a roving pitching instructor. Just think of the long-range benefits that will have once Remmie works his magic with our kids in the minors.
John also said Albie Lopez is being scouted in the Mexican League, and looks like the Albie of old. Wouldn’t he be a big help to us in the second half, taking some of the pressure off Reitsma !
By JasonInMaine
June 27, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this
At the sake of offending some of you…Bobby Cox is a GREAT, GREAT, GREAT manager. One of the BEST ever. Period. No questions asked.
By brewdawg
June 27, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this
I think you do a good job DOB. Let me say that up front. However, I am sick and tired of your depressing damn blogs. We aren’t even halfway through the season and while I’m not going to sit here and say we will come back to win the division, I see absolutely no reason that we can’t make a run at the wild card. I’m not just being blindly optimistic here. I realize that it would take a monumental run to get in position to even think about that. But how many times have the Braves been declared down and out and gotten off the deck to shove it down people’s throat? This team is not as bad as the 4-20 month we are having, and if Hudson gets back on track I think we have the starting pitching to go on another 15-5 run which would more than likely at least get us to 5 or so back of the wildcard. This is a franchise that has won 14 straight division titles. Until the run is officially over, we owe them some blind faith for one freakin year. I’m as frustrated as anyone but out of appreciation for what these guys have given us for 14 years, I’m going to believe in them until they are mathematically eliminated from the postseason. Heck, while it would be quite an improbable comeback, I’m not even giving up all hope on the division. Are any other Braves fans with me on this?
By CobbCounty
June 27, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this
MY OH MY these braves STINK! LOL
I am THOUROUGHLY enjoying this.
Spread the love, CobbCountyMet Fan……
By ND
June 27, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this
The pen has looked good the last few times out.
And DOB, the best show in Atlanta this summer will be 311 in August.
By RobC
June 27, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
Good point Rick. I don’t know what our owner situation will be when Cox finally does retire, but I’d love to see us go after an up and coming manager like Ned Yost of Milwaukee. He’s done a really good job developing a team in a tough division with very limited resources. Brewdawg, I’m with you all the way…until we are mathmatically eliminated, there is hope.
By BravesFaninRockies
June 27, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
brewdawg,
“run for the wild card” based on … ?
If you look at the standings, the Braves have to pass ten (10) teams to get there. Once it’s down to five or less, then we’ll talk.
By RobC
June 27, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this
If the Red Sox can beat the Yankees trailing 3 games to 0 with Riveria pitching with 2 outs in the ninth and a lead, and the Astros can come from 15 games back at the All-Star break to make the World Series, then this thing is far from over. Also don’t underestimate the ability of the Mets to have their traditional second half collapse.
By Head Coach
June 27, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this
HMMMMM , hypothetically , who could replace Cox and be highly respected and right the ship ? Anybody ever heard of Tom Kelly ? He only has two World Championship rings. He is only 55 and might consider coming out of retirement. Somebody call Maplewood ,Minn. and ask him , lol.
By ernesto
June 27, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this
Sure there is still hope. But only if they address some fundemental problems. I mean you can’t go out and whiff, what, 12 to 15 times a game and expect to ever get much going.
By Don
June 27, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew(ser), your question about what rock band to listen to at 55 is not “pertenent” to this blog. Hehe.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this
Yeah, I’m sure they are scouring the independent leagues for any pitcher that can throw 80 with some movement. Anyone else tired of JS digging in the trash can for relievers ? You know what you pull out of a trash can don’t ya ? Trash…
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this
If the Mets or Yankees won their division 3 or 4 straight years and could not deliver a world title the manager would be replaced.
By Lew
June 27, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this
Hi Don, are you having you typical great day. If you read the blog DOB wrote, it is pertinent, and see I can spell now, too. I figured that for the last month I have heard, discussed and argued the same old questions dealing with the Braves. Nothing new seems to come up in the discussions, so I figured discussing rock music might actually be interesting. Not like yourself, of course. Have a good one, Don.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this
I think Cox needs to retire. It doesn’t take any great manager to write player’s names on the lineup card. Maddux,Glavine,Smoltz,Chipper,Andruw,& McGriff carried Cox to greatness. They would have carried Phil Garner to greatness too. What do you Cox defenders say about the 100 loss seasons in Atlanta and Toronto Cox had ? If you say bad players then you just reinforce my argument. Good players = good manager. Bad players = bad managing.
By RobC
June 27, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this
robdawg, I’m tired of having to look in the trash for scrap relievers too. but even getting food from the trash beats going hungry, which is pretty much the alternative we have at this point.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this
I went to the concerts outdoors a couple years ago to hear some good rock bands (STP & Godsmack) but there were so many drunk teenagers and adults just standing around bullcrapping talking with each other that I left. There needs to be a socializing section away from the bands stage so those there for the music can enjoy it. It was the worst $100 I ever wasted.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this
The Braves have some sort of man-love for Cox I guess Metsfan. I too would have replaced him by now. Change is good.
By RobC
June 27, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this
NYFan,
The Yankees have won their division 5 straight years with no title. Torre is still around and in no danger of being fired. And the Mets have not won anything in 20 years. Check your facts before making blanket statements that are completely false.
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this
Robdawg, apparently you don’t know much about Cox. He has NEVER had a 100-loss season. He did an outstanding job with the Blue Jays. Maybe you should research before you throw out bogus numbers. About Tom Kelly: managed 16 seasons, finished first twice, second three times, and his teams finished with losing records 10 out of 16 seasons.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, you remember the concerts where it rained a lot and STP & Godsmack were there ? Maybe 3 years ago ? I drove from SW Ga. just to see & hear those bands only to see and hear drunks cluttered standing around and their conversations drowning out the music. Then I read the AJC the next day and it said something like “Musicfest A Success”. I was like “b******”. Maybe from a financial standpoint but from a fan standpoint it blowed !
By Hamilton McWhorter
June 27, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this
NYFAN-
According to your statement, “If the Mets or Yankees won their division 3 or 4 straight years and could not deliver a world title the manager would be replaced.”
Why hasn’t Torre been fired since the Yankees have won 5 straight division titles and no World Series?
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this
In 1978 & 1979 he lost 93 & 94 games and finished last in the division. In 1982 he lost 84 and finished last. He was a .500 manager the other years up until 1991 when as I said before he had the all-stars Maddux,Smoltz,Chipper,etc. on his team.
By CBD
June 27, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
I live in NYC and was at the game last night and will be going tomorrow afternoon. Yesterday was sad, I am was going crazy that home plate umpire was Horrible!! Sorry ol’ Braves, but I just can’t help myself I still go to games and watch them. Will the suffering ever end? DOB, now you have me wondering, how was the night parting with Chipper and the boys?
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
Here’s Cox managerial record link. http://www.baseball-reference.com/managers/coxbo01.shtml He’s a .500 manager when he doesn’t have a superstar team. The numbers don’t lie. And sorry that 93 and 94 losses ain’t 100. Close enough for me.
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this
I knew that was coming. Let me refrase. Torre has gotten the team to 6 World series and won it all 4 times. He now deserves the benefit of the doubt. If Cox had done that he would deserve the same.
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this
Check out Torre pre-Steinbrenner while you’re at it. At least you researched and stopped throwing out phony #s. In ‘82 he finished 6 games under .500 and finished last. 6 games under ain’t bad. How were his other Toronto years. You said he had a 100 loss season there too, didn’t you?
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this
or is 84 close enough to 100 for you also?
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this
If 93 and 94 losses aren’t close enough to 100 to prove my point then I retract my 100 loss claim and change it to 94. He finished last 3 years is the main point.
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this
Nice job. At least for the time being, you’re stating facts.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this
Last place is last place whether its 75,85,95,or 105 losses. 84 is closer to 100 than winning 100 ain’t it ?
By BL
June 27, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this
RobC…the Mets won the NL Pennant in 2000, unless you live in a time warp that is a little less than 20 years. You need to check your facts before making statements that are completely false.
By jest me
June 27, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this
Had a vision last night
Francour at bat. Johnson begins his windup. Suddenly a fly starts buzzing around Johnson’s head. He stops his windup and swats at the fly with the ball in his hand. Meanwhile Francour at the plate cork screws himself in the ground swinging at the pitch he thought Johnson threw.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this
I gotta go now. Braves suck and need new manager & players anyway.
By KneeJerk
June 27, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this
Then why waste your time here?
By eric the elder
June 27, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this
This is the kind of season when fans need to have a short vision and a long memory. With a short vision, we can ignore the heckling and dumping on us and on the team that fans in other cities have been waiting to do to us for many years. There is no harm in replacing swagger for a little humility. It might even be the gracious thing to do. We aren’t always as good as we sometimes are. A little self-deprecating humor is good for the soul.
On the other hand, we need to have a memory long enough to remember the glory days and to anticipate their return. We are down this year, badly down, but not permanently. Our time to swagger will come again.
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this
My humble belief is this….The braves put such an emphasis and focus on winning the division that they we’re emotionaly spent by the end of the season. There was nothing left when they opposed a team that was fresher and hungier than them. Their world series apprearances were early in their run. The last 6 or 7 years the emphasis was on keeping the streak alive.
By ernesto
June 27, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this
I think BC’s steady demeanor and loyalty to his players is actually hurting us this year. In some years, it’s probably what got us through. Sometimes your strengths become your weaknesses. I think BC’s going to have to be the one to jumpstart this season,
By berigan
June 27, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this
Well, I still think we have to trade some salary away to have the room to sign free agents in the off season. Trade the highest salaried players for cheap(but very good) prospects, and let them get their feet wet, have growing pains for this year,(remember how bad Smoltz and Glavine were at first?) then come next season they will hopefully be able to help us make a real run at the playoffs with a few key free agent signings. Or we can do nothing, and hope every team in the east won’t either…H*ll, the Marlins may be a bigger threat next year than the Mets.
By Blake
June 27, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this
rob dawg,
You make no sense, you are embarrassing yourself. Cox is a .500 manager if he doesnt have a superstar team? That’s a brilliant comment. By that logic Phil Jackson can’t win in the finals if you take away his 9 championship teams. Please keep amazing us all with your insightful comments.
By ernesto
June 27, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this
Everyone’s talking about the Mets like their freakin’ unbeatable. I mean they’re having a good year, tip your hat. But every guy on that roster is a guy we’ve beaten when they were on another club. And they are just an major injury or two from big troubles themselves…but they’ve got plenty of cushion.
By Glass Half Full
June 27, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this
The Mets are essentially a NL East All-Star Team. It took 4 teams to dethrone the Braves.
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this
Ernesto, lots of clubs are an injury or 2 away from disaster. Look at the Cardinals. No one said the Mets are unbeatable but the braves AINT catching them this year buddy.
By Glass Half Full
June 27, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this
And Glavine was so dominant during his tenure he helped the Braves win 1 world title in 5 chances.
By Blake
June 27, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this
I am sad to say but NYFAN is right, Not this year
By Glass Half Full
June 27, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this
It’s funny that Chipper is on the commercial for this years All-Star Game.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2006 05:55 PM | Link to this
Brewdog, what exactly do you want me to write, that things look pretty good? I mean, my man, this is the WORST MONTH IN TEAM HISTORY and that includes some horrendous 90-106 loss teams.
For weeks I was the one saying why they could still win the division, then saying how they were still in wild-card hunt. And far, far more people were hammering me for being overly optimistic, etc.
Now I’m supposed to change my tone because you _ and only you, it appears, unless you can find another person posting similar responses _ believes I’m too negative? Yeah, sure.
Tell you what, you make the case for why there should still be optimism. I’d like to read it.
And I’ll make the case for whatever I want to make the case for. And if you don’t like it, comment on it, don’t read it, whatever you want to do. But I will not, under any circumstances, change my point of view and be more “optimistic” simply to satisfy you or anyone else. I’ll write what I think, period, whether you or anyone else likes it.
And Rowland, I’ll write about music as much as I want to here. If you can’t deal with two paragraphs about music, then don’t read it. Because again, I’m writing it if I want to.
By Patrick
June 27, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this
DOB,
No giles in the lineup tonight, is that because he’s been traded?
By hk
June 27, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this
Robc,
… kind of a no-brainer, the numbers shown are just the guy’s R, HR, RBI performance through last night, multiplied by 162 and divided by the 77 games played so far to give projected year end totals … then added those numbers together give an arbitrary ‘MVP’ number …
… started tracking it on a weekly basis back in 1997, have done it ever since … that’s what all the curves reflect ..
click here for curves
By Tony Almeida
June 27, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this
Looks like a certain sports writer needs a hug something fierce.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this
By the way, six left-handed hitters in Braves lineup tonight, if you include switch-hitting Chipper.
Orr, 2B
Renteria, SS
Chipper, 3B
Andruw, CF
McCann, C
Francoeur, RF
LaRoche, 1B
Thorman, LF
Langerhans, CF
By Todd A
June 27, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this
Swagger?The Braves haven’t had a swagger since Leyritz’ homer off Wohlers in oct 1996.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this
Sorry, that SHOULD BE ANDRUW at DH, not CF
By Tony Almeida
June 27, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this
Orr? Thorman? Langerhans? Horacio better pitch a shut out.
By Head Coach
June 27, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this
I take it you meant Langerhans is the DH. Knee Jerk , I have one name for you. Carl Pohlad , the tightwad multibillionare Twins owner who drove Tom Kelly into retirement.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 27, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this
dob, the transition was marvelous! journalist jimmy smith is certain that scribe will be impressed, as well. if you are at the algonquin you must dine in the oak room and enjoy the performances there - also, the cheese sandwiches. they have a most delicious apple galette. do you think chipper had a galette last night? now, baseball … jimmy smith was angered last night as the atlanta braves proved not to be competitive with the hated ny yankees. bobby cox threw jimmy smith off a bit with his version of a bronx bombers’ lineup.
By NYFAN
June 27, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this
For the last 6-7 years division title have mattered more to the braves than world titles…..Thats why they only have one.
By SR
June 27, 2006 06:27 PM | Link to this
Oh happy day, all is well now, Orr and his .209 average is in the lineup and leading off to boot! I feel much better now. With Thorman’s .083 and LaRoche and all these other Mendoza clones, we must scare the bejeezus out of the opposition.
As Tony said above, Ramirez better throw a shutout.
By will
June 27, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this
DOB, why is orr starting and not betimet? has giles been traded?
By will
June 27, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this
I heard there was a deal that fell through the other day anybody now what it was?
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2006 06:35 PM | Link to this
DOB,
You’re not negative enough. You’re not positive enough. Your taste in music rules. Your taste in music is terrible. I hope you take my comments in consideration as you put on your Braves’ cheerleader outfit and kiss Bobby’s a*. After all, you hate my team and only wish it ill. Remember when you accused Andruw of using steroids? God, I hate you for that. That Neko Case has a wonderful voice, but that Neil Young should stop expressing that whiny liberal viewpoint of yours. I’m tired of all these conservatives telling us what to do. Damn fascists. There’s a donkey in the dugout and he’s only won one World Series in fifteen postseason appearances. He’s the worst manager ever, but he should be in the Hall of Fame. After all, he’s had great players and squandered them…and had bad players and exceeded expecations. Bobby shouldn’t be so positive, should he? He should put Betemit in at first, second and third base every night. Why is LaRoche on the team? LaDouche kills us out there every freakin’ night. That Giles is an Oompa Loompa who has no oomph in his bat. Renteria should bat leadoff, duh. Why isn’t Betemit hitting leadoff? Chipper doesn’t care, does he? He has bad toes. He’s vastly overpaid and, uh, oversexed. Chipper should play first most nights, I think. That Francoeur strikes out too much, but he’s the future of the team. I wish people would stop criticizing Francoeur, that lousy always-striking-out moron. Frenchy is clutch. The Braves have a shot at the wild-card. I still have faith in these guys and I want all of you naysayers to stick it when the Braves win the World Series this year and prove you wrong. This team is finished. The Braves need to blow up the team and start from scratch. Schuerholz needs to be fired now so he can go to the Hall of Fame. We need to call Moylan up again. Thomson and Sosa should be traded, but not until Sosa is the lockdown closer I always thought he’d be. I’m tired of you Cox apologists. You’re a hack, DOB. I’m glad you’re the beat writer.
Thank you.
(Does that cover it?)
By Calvin
June 27, 2006 06:41 PM | Link to this
That is a weird lineup. Really strange.
By krath
June 27, 2006 06:48 PM | Link to this
The lineup is a bit weird considering that according to the game notes on the Braves site that Edgar is the only player on the team who has faced Wright more than 10 times and he’s 6-12 against him.
Is that kinda thing not even considered when you make out the lineup ASSUMING you are going to try to win the game?
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 06:49 PM | Link to this
The Swagger’s Gone, No Diggidity, No Doubt…
My earlier 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…
Well Guys with Horroble Pete Orr Leading off that means Automatic Loss, WTF Does Bobby like in this guy…
And on another note, Calvin said it in da last blog about Praising Berry 4 his performance last nite, and I agree, Nuff Respect 4 Berry, Maybe He’ll be Our 2006 version of Greg McMichael
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this
Will I asked the Same Question, Orr Sucks, he needs to be at AA Mississippi, When Will Schuerholtz getting off his a-s-s and get us a real leadoff hitter, Like Pablo Ozuna…
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 06:56 PM | Link to this
Carroll, Whaddup! I like that half a-s-sed comment you made about Chipper, That was funny, And Head Coach If You’re out there, How Many Beer Cans do you intend to throw at the TV Tonite?
By Brent
June 27, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this
Here’s our reason for optimism:
We trail the Reds by 9 1/2 games, and play them 7 times.
If we sweep them next weekend in Turner Field, then they might just be thinking about us over the All-Star Break.
Any optimism I have, though, is predicated upon us winning some games.
Right now, that’s just not happening.
Look, I’m not making any predictions, I’m just saying how we can get back into this.
Try to squeak out a win this week, KILL Leo’s Orioles this week-end, survive St. Louis, and then SWEEP the Reds.
That’s our chance to get back into it.
By krath
June 27, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this
Whoa…Edgar IS in the lineup. Is my face red!!!
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this
Hello Blog!
Watching Baseball hoping for that elusive Braves win. Wow…never thought I’d be saying that. Mabey Chipper is out of his slump and same with the bullpen. Theres a few albeit a small number of reasons to be optimist……again let see an offensive exposion tonight.
By jon
June 27, 2006 07:09 PM | Link to this
DOB, WRITE ABOUT WHATEVER YOU WANT! I LOVE THE INSIGHT YOU GIVE ABOUT THE BRAVES AND IF YOU ENJOY WRITING ABOUT MUSIC THEN BY ALL MEANS KEEP WRITING ABOUT IT. I ENJOY READING ABOUT HTE MUSIC TOO HAHA….PLEASE PLEASE DONT FORGET TO GIVE ME SOMETHING ON THE JETER, CHIPPER, FRENCHY BD PARTY…THANKS MAN
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 07:09 PM | Link to this
Actually, I think Frank Balm intended for Dorothy to say that when she first encountered the Wizard but was afraid his readers would bw shocked and might not understand. Funny Lady, Dame Dorothy.
They’ve lost their swagger … but that might not be all bad. Now to eliminate the stagger … the answers may be found in strange places … like in the stands.
My guess is that there’s enough talent in the organization to win it all … and the adversity being faced by these individuals may make a team of them yet.
Maybe all they need in addition to some good fortune … is some good, above the neck, leadershiup … from the coaches and selected players who understand fundamentals … could be that Bobby Dews, Roger McDowell, and our two catchers fit the bill.
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 07:11 PM | Link to this
From the vent… “The reason the country laughs at Atlanta fans is because they see that we still do the “Wave” at Turner Field.”
I’ve Been to games in St Louis and have seen it done at the Juicebox in Houston, so The “A” isn’t the only town where you’ll see that crap at…
Although I hate the yanks The One thing I like about yankee stadium is that its full with die hard fans, instead of a bunch of clueless teenyboppers
Someone in the vent also said to fire T.P. And bring in David Justice as hitting coach, I like that Idea, along with Brian Jordan at 1st base or third base coach, But It won’t happen
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this
I have,’t seen any swagger in this team since David Justice left, ever since then it was more of a stuck up careless attitude, one that can be found on a Sorostitute on a college campus…
By nathan
June 27, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this
this team is so bad, they’d miss if they tried to throw themselves on the ground.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 07:29 PM | Link to this
.1st Inning thoughts…
Chippers bat speed looks off base……..mabey he was sitting on a curveball
H. Ramirez got thru the 1st inning……which as been his achilles heel
Raythburn or what ever your name is…….a leadoff single does not exaclty put a pitcher onthe ropes.
horrible team that calls the games. WTF. How can fox keep these idiots on the air. wish i had a radio in my apartment.
By Todd A
June 27, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this
Tomahawkin,I’ve been saying the same thing about this organization in regards to David Justice.The man was a clutch presence in the middle of the lineup that the Braves really haven’t had since they traded him in 1997.He may have been an A-hole,and he may have overthrown the cut-off man from time to time.But the man could flat out rake it…especially in crunch time.
We replaced him with Kenny Loftin(for a season),and added Michael Tucker and Keith Lockhart in a subsequent trade.The “greatness” of the Braves,turned to “goodness” right there.
By Brent
June 27, 2006 07:32 PM | Link to this
TBNFB,
You can listen to the Braves on the internet.
I use a station out of Gastonia North Carolina (Boss Radio).
By THE PREZ
June 27, 2006 07:33 PM | Link to this
WARNING Yanks have weapons of mass destruction….and this time I’m not lying.
By brewdag
June 27, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this
DOB,
You seemed to take my comment a little personally so sorry if I offended you. However, I stand by my point. It’s too early to give up yet. You want some reasons for optimism, and i was going to give you some, but I realized it basically comes down to this. The starting pitching and lineup has underperformed. As soon as everyone just starts playing like they are capable we are going to go on another good run. It doesn’t sound like in-depth analysis I know, but it reallly is as simple as that. But hey man, you’re right, you can write what you want and you shouldn’t cater to me or anyone else. I’m with you on that but it goes both ways- isn’t that the point of these blogs? You wouldn’t want everyone just kissing up to you all the time would you? Where’s the fun in that?
By Glass Half Full
June 27, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this
Regarding Baltimore and St. Louis: their pitching staffs have struggled mightily lately, so perhaps we can take advantage of that…that is, if they don’t clobber our pitchers first. Damn, they are home games!
By elbravo x
June 27, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this
Is it just me or the streaming feed sucks for everybody?
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
Lofton Actually replaced Grissom, but you’re right that was a genius move to acquire Michael Tucker and Keith Lockhart
Was Justice really an a-hole in person, or is dat just hear-say…?
David Justice had a right to overthrow the cutoff man, his arm was that damn good, He along with a Young Sammy Sosa, and a Young Raul Mondesi had the best cannon arms in the game…
By Carroll
June 27, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this
Todd A: I hear ya about tradin Justice. But you have to admit that in that first half of 1997 with Lofton leading off and Tucker second, and you had those guys getting on base and using their mad speed, they were reeking havoc on the league. FOr that one, brief shining moment, the Braves were operating like a well-oiled machine.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 27, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this
chop chop, that was a most confusing post. more confusing than a jimmy smith post. congratulations! bob, also is confusing tonight with the stagger in the stands remark. most of the stagger left with furcal. has anyone looked up the word, swagger? dob may be pulling a fast one … swagger could be caused by bad toes.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this
2nd inning thoughts
Frenchy had a nice AB.
Wonder why the yankee’s played the infeild in?
Yankee fan will never be happy, I wonder how many teams would love to have AROD. However when your being paid that kinda money you better put up some super numbers.
Lucky Posada did’nt hit it out on that hanger.
Bernie Williams is IMO one of the most overated players to ever play for the yankee’s
Random thoughts
Do people still think Wilson Betiment is the answer at 2B….After watching him get those extra AB’s over the last 2 weeks he really does look like the second comming of M. Derosa. Keep him on the bench as he’s a great role player….dont ruin his confidence like we did M. Derosa.
Hey DOB will J. Thompson return to the rotation when he comes back?
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this
No way Carroll, dat 97 team sucked on offense,We couldn’t play ABC Baseball that is why we couldn’t hang with the Marlins that year, but the 98 team was da shyt with Don Baylor as hitting coach, Where is he at anyway?
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this
While were on Michael Tucker, He had the same problem Giles has, A swing that is way tooo long. Having played on the olympic team I thought Tucker’s career was a Bust, But No More than David Nied, Terrell Wade, or Brad Woodall, or better yet Brien Taylor…
By Calvin
June 27, 2006 07:54 PM | Link to this
A little off topic here but has anyone heard what happened to Peter Gammons? He had a brain aneurysm and is currently in surgery. I know some people do not like him because of his love for the Red Sox. I always found him to be informative and a good writer. I hope he will be alright.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 27, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this
can jonathan schuerlolz be far away? could he perform worse than orr? won’t daddy make sure he has a cup of coffee? will he swagger? will he lead-off? will he pass go and collect $200? there are many questions to be answered,
a nobody, let’s have a report, please.
By elbravo x
June 27, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this
Someone said something about Jeter and ESPN, it is true! Not even the YES network praises him as much. The streaming sucks today in S. Cali.
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 08:00 PM | Link to this
Calvin, No Offense, but Gammons and His East Coast Bias makes me sick, I used to like him but he and ESPN Have went down to the toilet with this east coast bias thing
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this
el Bravo that was me dissing ESPNS Lovefest with Jeter, look at my comment at 6:49 after watching the game last nite on ESPN…
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this
Tp 3rd
I dont care what anyone says LaRoach is worth having in their for their glove.
when you have LaRoach b*** he has to have a point…..
How was that a balk?
The umpiring in this series so far looks horrible…..calling high strikes today……the missed call this inning on Damon….a phatom balk………….not calling the game both ways last night.
Great stop by Mccan.
Good pitching by H. Ramierz……looking good for most part.
By Calvin
June 27, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this
I listen to the Braves on the internet on wgst radio. It works just fine. And no offense taken Tomahawkin. I know people really dislike Gammons because of his love for the Sox. I look past that and read his articles. He is an excellent writer in my opinion.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 27, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
this is a bad night for going to the nose. if we run into some outs tonight this may be the reason. someone give the man a tissue!
By elbravo x
June 27, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
streaming sucks, going gamecast!Tomahawking, you called it on the nose. Giving you an opening journalist jimmy…
By Lew
June 27, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
I’m watching in Vermont on MLB Extra Innings on digital cable. The umpiring here looks suspect, too. I don’t know, but unless the Braves REALLY start to put something together pretty soon, the streak and the wild card are toast. By pretty soon I mean like win the next 10 or 12 in a row and then go on a .700 streak. I’m not really sure any major trades need to be made unless it is with the next couple of years in sight. I don’t think a quick fix or two will do it this year. Like one of the Mets fans said earlier, maybe we WERE trying to keep the streak alive rather than planning for the future. Talking about rock and roll sounds emminently reasonable to me. Hope Peter Gammons is all right. I met him at Spring Training a couple of years ago and he was a nice person.
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, it’s true that less beer in the stands would result in less staggering … but the confusing remark came from trying to do two things at once … was correcting a problem with the MLB.com audio and writing the post at the same time.
I was intending to suggest that the aversion to fundamentals is due in part to the fans … that is, their love of Thayer’s Mighty Casey. Overt Fan appreciation of basic hitting fundamentals might well make a difference.
The translation of “fans like offense” into “fans like home runs” is a sad commentary … as is any suggestion that a 1-0 game is boring.
If the explanation is as confusing as the original … it’s because I’m now trying to do three things a the same time … but, the Cheetos are good!
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this
Brewdog, no problem. You wouldn’t want me being unresponsive or bland, either, would you?
Tomahawkin’, you kidding about Nas? Of course I’ve had Illmatic since the week it came out. It’s right up there behind a couple of PE albums as my favorite all-time hip-hop CDs.
Someone asked about Thomson. Cox planned to start him around July 4, but said he’s “iffy” because of blister slow to heal. But with Chuck James dealin’, the only spot would be to bump Cormier, which is certainly possible.
Not much to report on the Chipper/Frenchy/Jeter doings. Chipper told me they had dinner over at Jeter’s apartment … in Trump Tower. Something tells me that’s not a studio apartment.
“It’s pretty nice,” Chipper said, smiling as if to say, it’s incredible.
By nathan
June 27, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this
Actually Tomahwakin the first month and a half of 1997 the Braves Offense was UNSTOPPABLE. Lofton had like 3 or 4-hit games in the first month, he was stealing bases, Tucker was makin contact, hit & runs were the norm. Then Lofton hurt his foot, couldn’t run anymore and that pretty much stuck a fork in that season. If I remember correctly in the Livian Hernandez game in the NLCS - Lofton led off the game with a triple and was stranded. As far as the 1998 Team and Don Baylor for that matter. Talk about pure BOBBY BALL. That team was all about the Hack and Jack. Weiss, Tucker, Chipper, Big Cat, Klesko, Andruw, Derosa. Definitely some THUNDER in that lineup, but not much Batting Average type guys mixed in.
By Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant
June 27, 2006 08:35 PM | Link to this
It never fails to amaze me how many Braves fans blog here who show their ignorance when it comes to the little things about Braves history.
CW, the Braves were not 0-19 in 1982. They lost 19 out of 21 games in one stretch, but never 19 in a row. And, BTW, at least one other team comes to mind who spends over $80 million and playing more poorly — see the Cubs.
And Steve, that is not a feather on the throwback uniforms, it is a torch.
Some of you guys think you know the Braves. If you don’t really know, do a little research before posting, would you?? Bunch of ignoramuses, most of you!!
By nathan
June 27, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this
I meant to type 3 or 4 (4-hit games)
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this
Oh, for Baltimore series Braves will start Chuck James, Hudson and Horacio.
By nathan
June 27, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this
the 1982 braves started 13-0. Then later in the year, they took nokahoma’s teepee down to sell more tickets for the stretch drive. They proceeded to lose 19 or 21 games. Put the TeePee back up just in time to save the season and win the division.
That enough accurate history for you?
By nathan
June 27, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this
19 of 21 games is what i meant to type.
not really accurate on the keystrokes tonight.
By Ace
June 27, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this
When will JS swallow the pill and admit that the Braves are sellers? Ship off Giles to a contender. Ship off LaRoche to a contender who wants a defensive 1B for late inning work. Ship off any pitcher not named James or Smoltz (I just couldn’t bear to see Smoltz in another uniform). Bring up that Cuban shortstop or that 2B who tripled and got sent down. Hell bring up JS Jr, what could it hurt? Just do SOMETHING to mix it up a bit.
I wonder if Bobby’s replacement is his current 3B coach Gonzalez. Give him a shot.
Ane please give spare us that horrible, abysmal Fox broadcast team!!!
By berigan
June 27, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this
Calvin, yeah I saw the story, very sorry to hear this. Gammons LOVES the game of baseball. People worry too much about Bias, he covered the Red Sox for decades, he still talks alot about the other 29 teams, and tries his best to not sound like a homer. When he talks baseball, his enthusiasm always comes out, and it is infectious! Many a Diamond Note in December has given me hope on a cold winter night. He loves players like Ryan Freel, is forever mentioning someone that isn’t getting much press that is a real gamer. He also was bashed my one-time hero Jose Canseco for years…I always wondered what Jose did to Peter…then I realized it was what Jose was doing to baseball that p*ssed off Peter. Get well soon Peter!!!
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this
We need a nick name for H. Ramirez. He looks good again tonight….
RoachYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mabey the stud can go nine.
By Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant
June 27, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this
nathan, yeah, the story about the teepee and all is good enough. At least it is true.
However, nathan, you to are ignorant. Lofton did not hurt his foot in 1997, he had a groin injury. I don’t know why you ignoramuses make up stuff. I guess pretending to show that you know more than you actually do. All you had to say is that he got injured and could not run as well. You don’t have to make stuff up.
By Todd A
June 27, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this
LOL.I was about to say LaRoche needs to shorten his swing and become more of a spray hitter.Was in the midst of typing it,and he hits one out.He still needs to alter his swing a bit.
Is it just me,but does Andruw look even more spread out at the plate than he was last year?I don’t see how he can generate any power what-so-ever from that position.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 27, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this
journalist bob, you must concentrate! it is “chicks dig the longball.” now, we learned nothing from dob about the apple galette. any peach ice cream left at bob’s house? is derek jeter romancing chipper in hope that he will become the yankees’ dh soon? would chipper like a ranch in the bronx? will bobby find what he is looking for tonight? if he finds it, let’s hope he is not on camera.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this
Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant,
Let me ask ya a question……to be a fan do you have to rember every detail about every game and player?
Yeah thats what I thought.
Got another one for ya……do ya have a legit question to ask or just more critisism of other people.
By Todd A
June 27, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this
Good post berigan.Hope Gammons is ok.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:04 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah….if you wanna correct someone dont insult them…….show lack of respect
By nathan
June 27, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this
Are you an F’n MORON who ALSO likes to make sht up or are you just trying to impress yourself. LOFTON HAD A FOOT PROBLEM AFTER HE HURT HIS GROIN AND CAME BACK TOO SOON HE HURT HIS FRCKIN FOOT AND COULDN’T PLANT ON IT OR PRETTY MUCH RUN AT ALL.
ISN’T IT PAST YOUR BEDTIME?
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this
If we dont come back….I hope the Marlins do somthing against the Mets….
By journalist jimmy smith stirs things up
June 27, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this
time to read a book. g’night.
By JJMB
June 27, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this
God, it’s nice to hear Jeff Torborg and Rathbun call the game. Anything is better than Don Sutton saying the same F-ing thing, OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN, and never coming up for AIR!. Or the nepotismic wonder-boys Skip and Chip.
By Tomahawkin
June 27, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this
Good Man D.O.B. Its good to hear someone appreciate the old stuff( Add All eyez on me as a classic as well), not this new keyboard poptart crap thats played on the radio and thats 4 all genres of music…
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this
Here come the chipper bashers
By Todd A
June 27, 2006 09:10 PM | Link to this
Ugghhh.Our leader comes through ….AGAIN.Please get rid of this guy.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this
right on cue
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this
Wow….what a pitch
By Todd A
June 27, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this
Rightfully so.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this
Wow….what a pitch….oh yeah….not sure if he gets cabrea anyway…..
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this
chipper’s gonna go deep…..im calling it
By nathan
June 27, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this
Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant
This aint going to happen very ofton, but I’m going to appologize to you. You are actually correct about the groin injury. GRISSOM had the foot injury that kept him from stealing bases. My mistake, sorry, shoot me.
It takes a real man to admit when they were being an A$$ and when they were wrong. I was both, and for that I’m sorry.
But don’t accuse me of making stuff up.
Since you know everything on the planet, answer me this. Did Lofton have a foot injury more recently, that just seems to stick out in my head. That doesn’t make me ignorant, it makes me forgetful.
By Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant
June 27, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this
TBFNB, No, you do not have to rember every detail to be a fan. You can be an ignorant fan if you want to be. It is ok not to rember every detail, but why make stuff up? It makes no sense to me. If you don’t rember, you don’t rember. It’s ok.
No legit questions here. I don’t think that is a requirement here. This is just a blog, not a forum where I expect answers to any questions. At least not informed, accurate, legit answers.
I only speak the truth, man! If that hurts, then don’t put ignorant mis-information on a blog for the world to see!! Bunch of ignoramuses.
BTW, TBFNB, what does the N stand for? Reminds me of a joke: Do you know what the “N” on the Nebraska Cornhuskers football helmet stands for? “Knowledge”.
By The Blogger Formerly Known As Billy (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this
By Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant,
LOL, wow another great post man……but its a free country…..I can promise you I wont respond to you anymore. As far as being ignorant…..I rather be that than classless…..
Peace Bro
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
Bob ate up all the Ice Cream … ain’t no more to be had! Whe I was growing up, Mama always cautioned us that those who swagger were full of something … themselves. Come to think of it, she was still saying that 50 years later!
Lay off of Chipper … he would make a good Yankee! I’m not sure that he’s lost his swagger … but I’m pretty sure that it’s been dificult trying to recover from his WBC losing experience. I don’t remember his exact quote but I think it was something like “I just live for this”.
By Billy the Blogger (TBFKB)
June 27, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this
Frechy there calling you out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Calvin
June 27, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this
gj Frenchy
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFKB)
June 27, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this
Alright 2nd guesser’s do ya pull H. Ramirez here?
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this
Billy has a point.
By nathan
June 27, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this
Absolutely, I would’ve. For sure after Jeter got on. Don’t put him in position to LOSE the game by letting 2 guys get on.
But you know, what the hell does an ignorant fan like myself know. I’d probably just go out to the home plate ump and forfeit the rest of the game.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this
wow, Bobby must be pretty confident, giving up the DH, even late. It’s just a two-run game.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
oh, wait, I get it. Ramirez is up in the ninth, and Bobby will pinch-hit. I’m not watching the game, so I didn’t know what the order was. Oops, guess I made the ignorant list.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFKB)
June 27, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
We need beetty on the bench he seems to do better their……mabey DOB can run stats vs pinch hitting and starting.
By elbravo x
June 27, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this
DO IT Gammons. Pulling for you!!!!
By Little DOB
June 27, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this
It’s my blog and I will cry if I want to!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFKB)
June 27, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
can i butcher the word their/there anymore tonight!
By Most Braves Fans Are Ignorant
June 27, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
Let me make one thing clear: we are ALL IGNORANT about something, me included. Nothing wrong with that at all. Ignorance is not necessarily a bad thing, it is part of the human condition. But I will not go on a public forum voluntarily and display my ignorance. So if you are offended by being rightfully called ignorant or ignoramuses, well, then, you stand offended.
nathan, no need to apologize. Just trying to set the record straight. I am only 42, so no, it is not past my bed time. Plus, I am in California right now, so it is still quite early here. I don’t claim to know everything (see above), but I know a lot about the Braves. You are right about Grissom hurting his foot. I don’t know if Lofton hurt his foot, too. I do recall Lofton dislocating his shoulder sliding head-first into first base in a playoff game after he returned to Cleveland. It looked pretty nasty at the time, but he obviously recovered from that. I just don’t know about the foot thing.
Well, off to see if I can find some entertainment for the night. Something along the lines of what Jeter, Chipper, and Francoeur probably did last night sounds fun!
By ncscoots
June 27, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
Larry Wayne, you dog…methinks you’re getting tired of the blog snipes, bubba. Nice AB..
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
Blake, you prove my point again with your Phil Jackson comment. Phil Jackson, like Bobby Cox is only as good as his talent. How good were the Lakers the last 3 years under Phil ? Not real good huh ? You add a couple stars to the team to go with Kobe and Phil looks like a genius again.
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
Billy, all men are ignorant … God made us that way. Just think how boring and meaningless life would be if there were to be nothing left to learn.
“Classless” appears to be clueless when it comes to knowing anything about social graces … though it might just be his swagger that confusing us.
I’m disappointed that you changed the “N” to a “K” … the “N” had style and didn’t reflect negatively on you in any way.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this
Lets see how sosa does with out the game on the line. This might be convincing.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
Look at the great Larry Brown. Won it all with a stacked Pistons team then had the worst record in the league with Knicks. If coaches are so great then why didn’t the great Larry Brown win in NY ? Its because all managers need good players to win. The managers we consider bad managers usually manage bad players. Ya’ll need to think things thru before crowning Bobby Cox or anyone else as King. Bobby is a good manager in the regular season and sorry manager in the playoffs as his record indicates.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
Wow southern rock in yankee stadium…..LOL
By ncscoots
June 27, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
ah, jeez, I got a bad feeling here. Jorge is due for a bad outing, isn’t he? Think I’d rather see Ray in this situation, just a gut feeling.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this
I rather him give up a long ball then start walking people…….throw strikes with that lead….good job
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this
And my dead grandad could manage the Jordan,Rodman,and Pippen Bulls teams to championships…
By ncscoots
June 27, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this
roger that, even better the way he buffed up on the next guy. Whenhe was starting, he didn’t seem to be able to do that.
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this
I told all of you that Chipper had a lot left and even left an open bet with any of you that he will be the old Chipper (.300 30 100) next year.
By Beachcomber
June 27, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this
Sorry to interupt this NBA blog but we may have stumbled on something here. Even with the mistake down and in, it sure beats the slow painful death that was Reitsma. Are there 10 guys in the majors who have better pure stuff than Sosa?
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this
I wounder if Ramirez could start tomorrow’s game? I missed the bottom of the 7th … how did the Yankees score?
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
About 9 blogs ago DOB wrote off Sosa. Anyone remember that blog ?
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this
If Sosa can pitch well in the closers role our bullpen looks a helluva lot better then it did last week. I like K. Ray and M. McBride as set-up guys and Paranto as ground ball specialist.
I still think Sosa will blow some but he’s gonna be adequet in that role. What will really be an indicator of how he handles the role is when he blows one and how he responds to that.
Some were saying one of the reasons the bullpen was struggling was becuase of lack of roles being solidified. Hopefully our bullpen woes are gone and we can focus on improving our offence.
3/5 not bad…..we win tomorrow thas gonna be a good thing going back to atlanta and a bad baltimore team. But you gotta think the last time we headed home with a big burst of steam….we fell on our faces…..I hope JS has seen enough to make a move…….
By robdawg06
June 27, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this
No Reitsma ever again please.
By A Nobody
June 27, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, Bob, hk, and all - a quick update on Carolina Lady. Doing better but a long way to go. The docs told my wife that she should be ok as long as they can keep the asthma under control and prevent another attack. She hasn’t lost her sense of humor, though: they have her on massive doses of some kind of steroids to fight the asthma. She told me to keep it under my hat because for sure someone would report her to the commissioner and then she would be barred from watching baseball anymore. I also passed along your comments and she was really moved by them, and said to tell you ALL “Thank you”. Visits and conversation are kind of limited right now, but I sure hope and pray that will change. Thanks, guys! We all appreciate your concern and interest!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this
I expect a fiery response from DOB!!!!!!!!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this
You know what we need is a knuckle baller…..wouldnt that be fun? Mabey Wakefeild is available…..who would’ve thunk he would stick around as long as he has……any of you guys remember him from Pittsburg days? Those were exciting times……ahhhhh……
By Bob, journalist
June 27, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this
To A Nobody who’s a Somebody … thanks! We won’t tell!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 27, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this
good night blog!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By jim from tenn
June 27, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this
Looks like HoRam finally gets it. He’s moving pitches in and out changing speeds better than he ever has. He just walks off the mound at yankee stadium like “a pimp after a nice b*tch slap across the face to his HO Johnny damon.
By hk
June 27, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this
A Nobody,
… wonderful news, sounds like she’ll be fine, imagine that the rest is the thing she really needed …
… sure would be nice if she had a laptop, most hospitals have wireless, etc … if she could talk back and forth with jimmy, bob, matthew and others, bet it would help her …
By TimK
June 27, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this
The bullpen looks much better now. And Horatio and Chuck James are definitely looking good. I think we are going to have a great second half…
By Kent
June 27, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this
This rotation is starting to shape up! If this rotation is 4 deep (Smoltz, Hudson, Ramirez, James), and the bullpen settles down (which it looks like is starting to happen)… We’ve got a real shot at the wild card. How bou’t that!
Maybe JS can swing a deal or two, and then… who knows?!
By flbravesgirl
June 27, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this
I wish Sosa hadn’t given up the HR but otherwise I’d take a bunch more games like that one. Great job by Horacio. Maybe we’re finally getting to see what Maddux saw in him.
A Nobody, thanks for the update on Carolina Lady. I hope she’s fully recovered soon!
Hopefully we’ll hear good news on Mr. Gammons also. While I don’t always agree with everything he says, I have a lot of respect for him.
By Chop Chop
June 28, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this
jimmy smith,
The point of my “confusing” post was to try to fit as many opposing viewpoints in it as I could.
I’m glad it was confusing, but since you’re the only one that commented on it, I guess I failed…weeeeeeeee!
By Josh
June 28, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this
so yea do any of these people that are fairweather fans and bust on chipper realize what kind of run the braves have had and what chipper has done for this organization. the braves would be nothing the past decade without big #10, i guess u all are just jealous ur not as good as he is and that he makes 13 mill a yr. no team will ever come close to what the braves have done. and if u have a problem with that my email is joshsims10@hotmail.com
By dalemurphyjr.
June 28, 2006 12:35 AM | Link to this
I’m glad to see Horacio pitching the way he’s capable of. He should be trade bait. With another 2-3 starts like tonight maybe some contenders will come sniffing around our door. Let’s face it, we know that Ramirez will basically give you 12-14 wins a year, an ERA that stays around 4.00 and 1 or 2 stints on the DL per season….but they don’t know that! Or maybe they just won’t care. Anyway, when Baltimore comes to town, we should take a long, hard look at 2B Brian Roberts. He’s only 28 and is probably the best pure lead-off hitter in baseball, definitely a sore spot for us!
By teoa
June 28, 2006 12:59 AM | Link to this
Some encouraging things happening on the field, but I don’t agree with Sosa in the closer spot — at least not yet. I suppose Bobby figured that they already tried the worst reliever in baseball for close game 9th inning situations, so why not try the worst starter in baseball as well? I don’t think using Sosa is as crazy as going into the season with Reitsma in that role, since Reitsma had already proven beyond a reasonable doubt that he would be a complete and total failure as a closer. Sosa is at least a question mark, which is actually an improvement at this point. He has better stuff, so it seems he may at least be physically capable of having some success, but I seriously doubt he has the mental makeup for the job, considering his performance this year, his poor conditioning, etc. It’s also extremely troubling to have a closer who has already given up 18 HRs! That has to give a hitter confidence when he steps up to the plate and sees that on the scoreboard. I predict the first time Sosa faces the pressure of a 1 run save situation, we will see another disaster. More blown saves will follow when his fragile psyche is unable to handle throwing away a win in the 9th. I hope I am wrong, but it would make a lot more sense to give him some time to prove he can handle the 7th and 8th innings before throwing him straight into the fire of the 9th. Ken Ray has still done fairly well in terms of percentage of quality appearances and I think he would be the more reliable option at this point.
By teoa
June 28, 2006 01:12 AM | Link to this
Since Nathan is still throwing childish, ignorant temper tantrums as recently as tonight, I will repost my response to him on Monday…Perhaps he missed it. I apologize for the double-post to all of you mature bloggers who don’t need advice on blog etiquette…
Nathan, you are absolutely correct…no pearls of Braves wisdom coming from me the last two days…primarily because I haven’t made any posts the last two days. Excellent investigative reporting there, Mr. Witts.
Sorry, I must have missed it when you were “staying” off the blog…By the way, who are you quoting? Or are the quotation marks intended to indicate that by “staying off” you don’t really mean “staying off”…you mean that you only posted an average of 465 times per day rather than your normal average of 922?
Your self-importance regarding your contribution to this blog is laughable. Your “points” are generally misinformed and infantile. Contrary to your belief, this blog operated just fine before your 3rd grade computer teacher showed your class how to post on a sports blog. Perhaps you missed in the lesson that there is something to be said for quality over quantity. Perhaps you should also be sure to stay awake through spelling class…it is counterproductive to misspell “intelligance” when you are attempting to tell someone that you are smarter than he is. It also makes it difficult for you to write off as a typo when you spell it the same way twice in the same post.
Forgive me for failing to answer your questions about my typing skills. Unlike you, I take into consideration what the majority of bloggers here might be interested in reading. I seriously doubt that most people care about how I type…let’s try not to waste people’s time, Nathan. Most of us here don’t have an endless amount of time to spend on the internet. And again, who were you quoting when you asked about “both” of my fingers? That’s just silly, Nathan.
Okay, that’s it. I apologize for wasting everyone’s time with this post, but my hope is that it will lead to less time wasted for all of us scrolling past all the Nathan posts in the future. Next time I will talk about the Braves and/or music as this blog is intended. You have to understand, at the moment I find it completely unnecessary to enter into a p!ssing contest to prove my baseball knowledge to a juvenile blogger that feels the need to state just how superior his “intelligance” is to everyone else on this blog. If fact, Nathan, I think saying nothing would probably demonstrate much more “intelligance” on your end. Keep up with the books, and maybe one day you’ll be ready and able to contribute to an adult sports blog.
By dalemurphyjr.
June 28, 2006 01:13 AM | Link to this
Close your eyes and start prayin’, Chris Reitsma’s back! I’ve always loved Bobby’s patience but if he’s gonna be a stubborn jack-a* about putting Reitsma back in, it should be as a spot starter. It won’t seem as bad if Reitsma gives up 8 hits and 4 four walks over six innings instead of his customary 2/3 of an inning.
By Head Coach
June 28, 2006 01:16 AM | Link to this
What the hell ??? I go to sleep and wake up , the Braves have spanked the Yankees and the Mets have lost. Maybe the stars were aligned or something. Get Well Peter Gammons , you are one of the good guys and a credit to baseball.
By Bob, journalist
June 28, 2006 01:18 AM | Link to this
Chop Chop, I could be wrong but I doubt that Jimmy needed an explanation of the “what you were trying to do” … maybe the “why”.
He may have just been paying you a compliment … after all, he offered his congratulations and he doesn’t do that very often! Then again, it’s not often that I find him very confusing either.
By Tomahawkin
June 28, 2006 01:32 AM | Link to this
Head Coach, suprisingly this wasn’t one of those games you get to throw beer cans at, lets hope 4 da same tomorrow
By Head Coach
June 28, 2006 01:51 AM | Link to this
Well , Smoltz is pitching and the bullpen appears to be fixed…… I said APPEARS TO BE FIXED. knock on wood , lol. Now , if they could find a leadoff hitter this team could actually look respectable and be competitive. Does anybody think that the Reds would trade Ryan Freel if we threw John Thomson and Ryan langerhans at them ? Freel is bugs bunny in a big league uniform . Starting and playing RF Ryan Freel , LF Ryan Freel , CF Ryan Freel , 3B Ryan Freel , 2B Ryan Freel , SS Ryan Freel….. lol , the guy plays six positions is batting .301 with 17 stolen bases , a .389 OBP , 27 walks , a .440 SLG average and he can bunt , run the bases and is a great outfielder. On second thought , I wouldnt trade him if I were the Reds.
By Bob, journalist
June 28, 2006 03:35 AM | Link to this
Head Coach, this wasn’t prompted by your post … or directed at it … but I rather wish they wouldn’t allow trades during the season … if they didn’t, then maybe the fans would treat the players more like family and less like chattel.
Of course, I figure even Bob Taft would have thought unions for folks with individually negotiated contracts a bit difficult to understand or justify.
Enjoyable win tonight … but don’t yet understand the official scoring in the AL.
By Bob, journalist
June 28, 2006 03:45 AM | Link to this
Oops! the last post left off the bowman explanation of the last questional call: “Despite it being a seemingly routine grounder, the official scorer ruled it to be a single. He stated that it was a mental error that led Jones to attempt to backhand the chopper just in front of third base”.
By Head Coach
June 28, 2006 06:19 AM | Link to this
Well Bob , baseball wouldnt be the Multibillion dollar industry it is without trades and free agency. Trading has been ingrained into the mindset of Americans since the first settlers traded with the Indians. I traded baseball cards as a kid , now I sell them on Ebay , its Capitalism. Its part of the fabric of our country. Then again ,the players and owners wouldnt be getting rich at the expense of the fans , thats for damn sure.
By bamak9cop
June 28, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this
I’ve been following the Braves since the inception of TBS, the lean years included. All this griping is funny to me. As for me, I’ll take the 14 division titles and keep the exact same management until they show me they’re destined for a lengthy run at the cellar of the division. And so far, no matter what anybody posts, there’s nothing to indicate that we’re even remotely headed for a long slide. This is one miserable month out of 14 YEARS! I see nothing to revamp at this point.
By Rodger
June 28, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this
a few notes- Most fans ignorant-yes those are feathers on the old unis (Braves=Indians—DUH) TBFND-Horacio is Horay! Todd-I agree, Andruw does seem spread wider this year, but look-it works great for Pujols.
If the team can just put a few wins together, get over the “how will we lose this time” syndrome, maybe they can still go on a run. Without Reitsma and Remi blowing games, we might be in a position to do that. If that happens, we may regain some swagger!
By Kent
June 28, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this
The Swagger’s Back!
By Kent
June 28, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this
Well… okay, we don’t want to get too carried away with one win. But seriously, things are looking up.
If Heracio Ramirez can keep pitching like he has been, and if Chuck James continues to impress, the rotation will be very strong. If Hudson can get his control… well… under control, the Braves really could have the strongest rotation in the NL in the 2nd half of the season.
So far, so good with Sosa-the-closer. I imagine Ken Ray will be the setup man. Not bad (hopefully). Time will tell. Add another peice or two to the bullpen to compliment Sosa and Ray, and maybe find one more bat (either a leadoff guy or another big stick), Atlanta may just make some post-season noise after all.
By KneeJerk
June 28, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this
Head Coach- I don’t care about Pohlad. Tom Kelly won 2 titles. He also had 10 losing seasons out of 16. The Braves are competitive every year. I know Kelly is an icon in Minnesota and the upper midwest (especially the Dakotas, right?), but I’ll take Cox over Kelly 8 days a week.
By Kent
June 28, 2006 09:30 AM | Link to this
Ya know, it just occured to me that the Yankees may well be watching the playoffs on TV this year. The AL Wild Card is going to be either Detroit or the ChiSox, meaning that if the Yanks don’t catch Boston, they won’t be playing in October. Wouldn’t that be wonderful! Poetic justice!!!! 200 million $ payroll… and couldn’t get the job done. Let’s hope!
By Kent
June 28, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this
How bout’ Marcus Giles, Brian Pena, Ryan Langerhanz, and A.Lerew to San Fransisco for Moises Alou and Steve Kline. That would fix the offense, and would add a major peice to the bullpen.
I think that would work nicely. You could play Betemit at 2nd and bat him leadoff.
JS isn’t returning my calls, so I don’t if he’s already thought of that or not. lol
By journalist jimmy smith
June 28, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this
a nobody brings good news. let’s continue to pray for a complete recovery for our friend, carolina lady. chop chop, the term “tongue in cheek” comes to mind but then jimmy smith thinks of uh, chipper jones with just a pinch of seeds, tobacco, gum, and salsa between tongue and cheek and journalist is repulsed. so, bob, the official scorer is suggesting uh, chipper made a mental error? uh, chipper is wise in baseball. not sure about life and business, but he is wise in baseball. not sure about walking and talking, but he is wise in baseball. uh, chipper has carried this team before but sadly, his game is now in decline. betemit comes off that bench ready to hit, huh? now, “p” player pete orr … jimmy smith is pretty sure he was on base one time last night. “p” player is so fast that journalist cannot be sure.
now, pitching and defense. remember that this is the key. there have been some signs of hope - really good signs of hope. maybe the braves can get it going now.
what’s that , baby seal? a nobody, baby seal sends best wishes to carolina lady.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this
Good Day Blog!!!!!
For some reason the Blog would not come up until now for me……must be a conspiricy (sp?). Looks like the begining of another pitchers duel……Smoltz looks like he’s got his best stuff.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 28, 2006 01:57 PM | Link to this
somebody damaged the blog. could it have been journalist jimmy smith? perhaps the blog went the way of the swagger. now, the old journalist …
is the old journalist confused? is it his suggestion that uh, chipper be put down? or does the old journalist read the dob blog? jimmy smith thinks the old journalist does indeed read the dob blog - and that he sometimes contributes under a fictitious name. no, not carroll. think about who it might be. if the old journalist likens chipper jones to mr. ed as has been suggested in this very blog on several occassions, then is the old journalist now of the opinion that chipper should be off to elmer’s? this is a sticky question and frankly, journalist jimmy smith does not know the answer. many fine horses have endured hoof problems and the occassional oblique issues (horses have an oblique, right?), thumb soreness, and strains. is it right to put them down? to have only a small pot of glue as a reminder of their former glory? and where is the glue to be displayed? next to niekro? beside the famed hank aaron? journalist suggests a spot in the stands along the third base line near a babe. that would be fitting and proper. now, mbatl … if you are reading this jimmy smith apologizes in advance.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 28, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this
did anyone wake up bob?
By Sonny
June 28, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this
Damn…thanks for the Flaming Lips heads-up! I’m on their mailing list and they didn’t even send out an announcement? The Olympic Park show rocked!!!!
About the Bravos…Barry and Sosa in the bullpen and James starting seem to be working out…why did the Braves wait until the season was pratically over to make these moves?????????????????????????
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this
hey chipper hater’s he’s batting close to .400 over the last 8 games…….I’m sure people will still complain that he’s not hitting hommers.
By eric the elder
June 28, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this
Hey Smoltzie:
Step 1: Grab the weed.
Step 2: Pull the weed.
By Chop Chop
June 28, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this
You know what? I’ve been thinking about something. Chipper’s not hitting homers, is he? I should complain about that.
If the swagger is gone, does that mean the ’70s and ’80s “stagger” is back?
Chipper needs to start hitting homers.
By Bob, journalist
June 28, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
No, Jimmy, I’m not awake!
Actually, I tried to send a reply to HeadCoach earlier this morning … and it didn’t take … when I refreshed the screen it redirected but the older blogs were accessible so I figured it was I that had done the dastardly deed.
The lost post was much ado … but for the sake of closure …
Coach, by golly, I think you’ve got it figured out.
All this mess got started because of $24 worth of beads. If only we could trade New York back to the Indians, they could move it to Cleveland and it would solve a lot of problems.
Idle thoughts …
I really don’t mind trades … I just wish we could all just embrace this team and organization and root for them … win or lose. Instead, it seems that our preoccupation with winning has translated into some pretty sharp condemnation of the players, the organization, the media … and each other.
I don’t think any of us are totally immune from this disease and I honestly do think that attitudes toward in-season trading as a preferred solution to our problems need to be adjusted … just between us girls.
We all have our opinions and many, if not all, of us are passionate … that’s as it should be … but there’s something wrong when it translates into hostility.
It’s easy to fault Bobby Cox … I do, and have for more than 15 years … but he’s a remarkable manager of young men and a lot of his critics … who are, or aspire to be, real life managers … would do well to try to learn as much as possible from one of the masters.
Familiarity breeds contempt so we may not truly appreciate the job being done by this organization called the Braves … but others certainly seem to so do. I personally think it’s kinda neat to root for a team that has somewhat of a “Home Grown” flavor.
I grew up in Atlanta but my parents came from very small, country towns. I was probably 8 years old before I knew the value of a dollar … having never seen more than one or two … so it’s hard for me to comprehend paying any ballplayer millions of them. It’s even harder to understand those who suggest they earn it.
I truly doubt that money is the answer: “If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to.” … again, Dorothy Parker; not the Bard.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this
How bout smoltz pitching out of a jam……the defence looks great the past few games too……
By ncscoots
June 28, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this
well, it’s true Dorothy Parker was wicked with words. She could bloody your nose with a single comment, and leave you wondering why you were bleeding. Nice to know that even blue-collar sportswriters like DOB (and I mean that in a GOOD way, Dave!) can revel in good wordsmithing history. Course, I expect no less from you, Bob, you erudite old dawg…
By Tony Almeida
June 28, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this
I love this bullpen.
By JJ
June 28, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this
And the bullpen blows another late lead….somethings never change
By geauxbraves2000
June 28, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this
If Smoltz ever wants to get another win, he is just going to have to go 9.
By Jaysen
June 28, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this
So much for the proposed “death ray” chants at the Ted.
By Chop Chop
June 28, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this
Cox: “Well, Giambi got under that ball. Wouldn’t’ve been a homer in most ballparks. Kenny made a good pitch.”
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this
wonder if anyone’s ever done research on how many time the bull pen has blown J. Smotz wins in his career…..so much for the solved bullpen problems…..
By berigan
June 28, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this
Well, changing my post to how great Smoltz was pitching, to it’s just unfair to have a GREAT pitcher stuck on this team! Trade him, let him have a chance to get to the W.S. again. Could he have pitched any better? Doesn’t matter, no win since May 22nd, and who knows when he will get a win again…..
By elbravox
June 28, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
once pete said reeksma, i knew tne ball was gone
By eric the elder
June 28, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
Last night, Sosa gave up a solo homer, but the Braves won anyway. Today, the solo homer ties the game. The offense has to do better than 2 runs.
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this
Good peice of pitching by Paranto……still can win this…..
By Bob, journalist
June 28, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
Scoots, erudite … undeserved but greatly appreciated!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
eric the elder,
I agree with that……however, would’nt it be nice to not hold our breaths for close games?
By Tony Almeida
June 28, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
Where is Charley Kerfeld when you need him.
By TOM
June 28, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
PLEASE JOHN!!!! GET SOME BULLPEN HELP NOW!!! WHY WOULD A PITCHER WANT TO PITCH HERE IF HE ALWAYS HAS SOME WORTHLESS GUY COME IN AND GIVE UP THE GAME HE WORKED SO HARD TO WIN FOR 7 OR 8 INNINGS???? IF WE HAD ONE PERSON WHO COULD HOL A LEAD, WE WOULD STILL HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THIS YEAR!!!
By TOM
June 28, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this
PLEASE JOHN!!!! GET SOME BULLPEN HELP NOW!!! WHY WOULD A PITCHER WANT TO PITCH HERE IF HE ALWAYS HAS SOME WORTHLESS GUY COME IN AND GIVE UP THE GAME HE WORKED SO HARD TO WIN FOR 7 OR 8 INNINGS???? IF WE HAD ONE PERSON WHO COULD HOLD A LEAD, WE WOULD STILL HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THIS YEAR!!!
By TOM
June 28, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this
PLEASE JOHN!!!! GET SOME BULLPEN HELP NOW!!! WHY WOULD A PITCHER WANT TO PITCH HERE IF HE ALWAYS HAS SOME WORTHLESS GUY COME IN AND GIVE UP THE GAME HE WORKED SO HARD TO WIN FOR 7 OR 8 INNINGS???? IF WE HAD ONE PERSON WHO COULD HOL A LEAD, WE WOULD STILL HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THIS YEAR!!!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this
dude chill
By TOM
June 28, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this
PLEASE JOHN!!!! GET SOME BULLPEN HELP NOW!!! WHY WOULD A PITCHER WANT TO PITCH HERE IF HE ALWAYS HAS SOME WORTHLESS GUY COME IN AND GIVE UP THE GAME HE WORKED SO HARD TO WIN FOR 7 OR 8 INNINGS???? IF WE HAD ONE PERSON WHO COULD HOLD A LEAD, WE WOULD STILL HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN THIS YEAR!!!
By journalist jimmy smith
June 28, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this
not only is the swagger gone, the lead is gone, too! oh, the humanity! this journalist needs to do some journalism but jimmy smith is too angry right now. poor smoltz … how many is that for the esteemed right-hander? he’d do better if the home depot guy came in for relief than what he’s getting now. it is good that the erudite journalist is awake and on the job.
now, just how old is dob? staying at the algonquin hotel reminds jimmy smith of the esteemed algonquin j. calhoun. does dob know who that is?
By JasonInMaine
June 28, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this
I just can’t believe how long JS has allowed this crap to continue. Everyone under the sun has known what the problem is…since the end of the 04 season. I could make a living facing this bullpen.
This sux. The maddest I have ever been as a Braves fan…including all of those losses in the 90s. They were pretty much expected.
My word, is there no relievers available anywhere????????????/
By journalist jimmy smith
June 28, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this
it is true that paronto went through some “p” player difficulties but that sinker, when it works, is quite good. mcdowell must be working with him, right? if he can throw that pitch effectively, he will be trouble for opposing batters. now, what will he do with jeter?
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this
Thats about 18 inning with the bullpen only giving up 3 runs…..by my country math thats a 1.5 ERA…..cant ask for much more….our bats need to get going…..
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this
ok we need to stop stealing….its not working
By Rodger
June 28, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this
Same old, same old… How can we swagger when a late inning lead is worthless. Hell, I haven’t played in 20 years, but I think my chance of holding the lead is as good as any of these guys!
By John Schuerholtz
June 28, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this
Sorry, but I am out of the office right now, and will be for the remainder of the season. I am currently traveling on my book signing tour. Please pick up a copy today!
And FYI, I’m currently working on my new book, it will be titled “How to Screw a Dynasty in Less Then One Season”.
By ncscoots
June 28, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this
jack one, Larry, and let’s put ‘em in the hurt locker…
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
pinch hit diaz here
By Tony Almeida
June 28, 2006 04:37 PM | Link to this
You people still in love with Betemit?
By Rodger
June 28, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
everyone in the world hits Farnsworth-WHY CAN’T WE?
By berigan
June 28, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this
Farnsworth is truly a mystery. usually, a guy who throws 100 MPH isn’t hittable, but he sure can be. Hearing on the TBS that he had issues with a Posada past ball yesterday. Bad move. Say what you want about the Yankees, Posada is a hard nosed player. No doubt Farnsworth will be on the move again next year.
By TOM
June 28, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this
Giles got a hit….a homer even….things could be turning around…oh wait, they still get to hit again
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this
How bout giles……
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this
heres where we see if sosa’s a closer
By berigan
June 28, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this
I thought Renteria didn’t have that great of range??? Could we actually win this game? And the series???
By berigan
June 28, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this
Hey Berigan!!! Shut Up!
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this
damn…..nothing else to say….gonna be one of those years….
By Tony Almeida
June 28, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
This team is a joke.
By Rodger
June 28, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
we see Sosa-yep
By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)
June 28, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
wow two blown saves in one game………….
By Head Coach
June 28, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this
O my , O my. I luv it , no I hate it , just hate it. O’well only three more months of this train wreck we call the Braves. hey Bob ,can we trade the braves for $24 worth of beads back to Milwaukee or Boston , lol.
By Tony Almeida
June 28, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this
How can Sosa even see the plate with that big waud of crap in his mouth?
By cksism
June 28, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this
This is the worst F*ing bullpen in the history of pitching. Holy hell TRADE THE BULLPEN WHO NEEDS 875 PITCHERS ON THE ROSTER!!!!!?!?
By Mitch
June 28, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this
Man, just when I think we might be starting to turn this ship around, starting to look like a team that can make a run at the wild card, we get a loss like this. This kind of loss punches you right square in the nuts.