Braves

By bushwacker

June 30, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

Sorry Dave, its too close to football season and the Braves are too far back, nobody cares!!!!

By michael

June 30, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand Smoltz. What’s his deal this year? Ultimatums can be so bad for a team’s morale. Already this year he threw out that “..we had to win because if we fall 10 games back it’s over..” nugget.(paraphrasing there) Then came the slide that wouldn’t stop and they’re 15 games back. How, as a clubhouse leader, do you then have a meeting a say, “Hey guys, we’re not out of it yet!”? I think the Braves could make the end of the year interesting,but it’s gotta start now. And, unlike the Mets, I don’t see losing becoming a habit for years and years. (that was just for you Mets fans that for some reason can’t stay away from Braves blogs)

By Chris

June 30, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

Bushwacker,

Not only are you wrong, but you also look pretty stupid posting on a BASEBALL blog about how no one cares about BASEBALL.

By Ray

June 30, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why Bobby doesn’t use Renteria to lead off … his OBP percentage is much higher than Giles & Giles doesn’t have base stealing ability anyway; so maybe Giles would feel more comfortable where he was productive and we could put somebody in scoring position in front of Chipper & Andruw.

By thecamera

June 30, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

dave -

is there any more information on why matt esquivel was suspended by the organization?

By DHD

June 30, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

We need to get Carl Crawford in the mix even if we have to trade Salty for him. How about Huddy for Crawford? Then trade LaRoche for some bullpen help and get Chipper to first and Betemit to third.

By bammer

June 30, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

Ray, that made a lot of sense.

By Chop Chop

June 30, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

Nice job on the blog, especially on looking into the future. That’s the sort of stuff that knowledgeable fans like to read. It gives us a better idea of what the team is thinking, how much the financial side may enter into what moves are made and a few of your own opinions thrown in for effect.

You may be a hack, DOB, but you’re damn good at it.

By gotigers72

June 30, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

I have been shocked at how inept Hudson has been this month. This is a top of the line pitcher that said he would turn it around this year, said the events of last year [birth of a child, his trade here, etc.] had made it difficult. 2 things have made he and all of the pitchers poor this year. Not throwing strikes and throwing the ball up in the zone. HoRam has done better at these things, and James looked good the only time he started. But Sosa goes deep in the count on everybody and then has to come in with a cookie like he did to A-Rod the other day. It’s not just walks, although they are too numerous, it’s also getting behind in the count and make it much easier for a hitter to look for a pitch.

To change the subject just a little, I read where then Orioles lead the AL in walks. I know that has Leo pulling his hair out…whoops, don’t guess he has much left to pull out does he?

By geauxbraves2000

June 30, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

I was convinced that Renteria had to stay 2nd in the order, he was too good of a #2 hitter, but I am starting to believe this team would be better off with him hitting leadoff. At least w/him hitting leadoff there is actually a chance of getting the leadoff hitter on base. McCann is a good situational hitter, maybe he could bat 2nd with Chipper and Andruw protecting him. Maybe two patient hitters at the top of the lineup will rub off onto the rest of lineup.

By Lew

June 30, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

The problem with obtaining Crawford from the Rays, seems to me that -A. They don’t want Hudson’s salary even at $6mil B. They don’t need Giles because they have Cantu C. In Spring Training when we tried for Baez (Thank God we didn’t get him), the Rays wanted either Davies or McCann plus Salty (at least from what I heard). What do you think they might want for Crawford? Realistically, can we afford that?

By David

June 30, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

DOB,whats the corresponding roster move for Reitsma’s activation today?

By Lew

June 30, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this

Something just re-occured to me about the lineup. Has anyone noticed that Marcus, whose power is to the alley in right-center has been hitting with as open a stance as I’ve seen since the days of the Walt Hreniak school of hitting was popular. How can you drive a ball to right center when your stance makes you pull the ball. This could be why he keeps hitting the ball to short or popping up to 3rd. Just a thought.

By elbravo x

June 30, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Smoltz ultimatum is not very intellectual of him. Who does not know that the Braves need to win over 70% of the remaining games to have a chance? Why add more pressure? Pressing during games is counterintuitive. Let’s play hard, fundamental baseball. Do not give at bats away. The second half starts tonight!

By Steve

June 30, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

I think the difference of opinion b/w Smoltz & Chipper provides some great insight into the two players.

Smoltz is probably a HOF lock because of his starting pitcher record, relief pitching mastery and post season success. His performance has always risen when more was on the line. Despite his advancing age & the dire situation of the current Braves, he’s not giving up but, trying to do what team leaders are supposed to do - LEAD THEIR TEAM.

Chipper has never figured this out. That’s why his HOF status has been dropping for several years now. The Braves had to think he’d provide some leadership at some point, but he never has. He’s never been a Terry Pendleton, Dan Gladden, Derek Jeter, Jim Edmunds type leader. Nor, apparently does he intend to. In fact, his current cautious stance is the same one he displayed a few weeks ago when he was asked about the teams’ mood when the losing streak began. His comments were about how lousy they all felt about losing NOT what needed to be done to start winning.

A big contributing factor to the Braves’ recurring post season collapses is that, unlike the Yankees and others who have won the World Series, the Braves have never had that position-player leader to make a difference in the post season since Terry Pendleton led them from worst to 1st. Their only champtionship in 1995 featured David Justice assuming a leadership role. The sooner the Braves realize that Chipper is perfectly satisfied with being only a good player who is not to be counted on to provide any leadership the better off they’ll be.

In the meantime, I hope the players pay more attention to Smoltz. He has shown them how it’s done and paid the price. He’s a champion who still has the heart of one. Chipper’s a good guy and good player that has never quite developed the heart of a champion.

By ace

June 30, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

Carl Crawford would be worth a steep price - maybe more workable in a 3 way deal though with a bigger market team (Yanks?) getting Hudson.

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

DOB I posted my point on the last BLOG, but in case you didn’t read it… “Laroche has the highest road slugging percentage on the team”, and “it’s an insider baseball number everyone knows is important”. I’ll throw your argument right out the window with this little stat: I know that most people in baseball consider WHIP a pretty important stat also. Now try and guess who of the Braves pitchers has the best WHIP at home this year??? You guessed it, CHRIS REITSMA. Damn, he should be in the all star game this year then shouldn’t he?

By Lew

June 30, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

You all should realize by this point in time that not everyone is a born leader. Maybe it’s time to make this realization in Chipper’s case. I’m sure his contract doesn’t have a leadership clause in it and he does not have a C on his uniform that informs us he is captain. The past several years he has played through some pretty significant injuries. Have any of you pulled or torn a hamstring? It hurts like holy hell. I did it playing intramural sports at UGA almost thirty years ago and it STILL hurts on cold wet days. Give the guy a break. He has had ten hits over his past five games and has always hit close to .300. He has a .300 career average. What more do you want? I can’t remember a single time where I have heard him complain in the media, either. Enough.

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

Good article DOB… I’m glad you’re bringing up possible trade scenarios. What do you think of Hudson to the Dodgers for Broxton and 1 or 2 prospects thrown in?

By Boomer

June 30, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this

Tonight’s pitcher (Cabrera) has an ERA of over 5.00. He is averaging close to a walk an inning. If we go up to the plate hacking at the first pitch and don’t give him a chance to walk his way into trouble then Terry Pendelton should be fired. That will show that he is either lacking in knowledge or is ineffective because the hitters are not following his instructions. We need to score more than 2 or 3 runs a game so that everyone can relax a little.

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

Anyone disagree with this? Teams who would be interested in Hudson: NY Yankees, LA Dodgers, Texas Rangers, SD Padres, Cincinatti Reds. Possibilities: BoSox, Phillies, Blue Jays.

By Bob, journalist

June 30, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith,

Times are bad and I’m not saying that if they get worse I wouldn’t consider selling you out but the truth is, there doesn’t seem to be anyone willing to pay a reasonable price.

I’m not even sure what a reasonable price for treason is … but Mama told me to always charge your friends full price and make family pay double because your enemies aren’t going to buy anything at any price.

I became an actuary because I was told that actuaries drove air conditioned cars and lived in air conditioned houses … but I also like to cook so I’ve learned to take the heat and spend a lot of time in the kitchen.

I’ll have you know that I’ve progressed to using two fingers on the keyboard … but it’s slowing me down … one finger doesn’t seem to know what the other is doing.

I once lost a good friendship because I told someone that it wouldn’t surprise me any if my friend scored zero on a 100 question, true-false intelligence test. Word got around that I thought he was stupid … but, I was really indicating that he was a genius with a different perspective. I assumed that they would understand that had I thought him stupid, I whould have expected a score of about 50.

Since then, I’ve tried to be a little less assuming.

I’m pointing both fingers at you when I say I thought that post was one of your best … from a pure humor standpoint … and I assumed that David would have appreciated it as well. I never considered my response as being critical … it was just well deserved applause for a good piece of humor.

No, I wasn’t giving you up … that would be mean spirited and bad manners. I figure DOB reads all of your posts anyway.

Speaking of Manners, did you recognize on my “Miss Manners” reference?

Regarding Leo, Rowland’s post was disconcerting … evidently AP reports Chipper as saying that the pitchers’ post-Mazzone approach is less effective … with significant elaboration.

I haven’t read the article but it appears to have been an elaborate interview … certainly not what one would expect from someone in a team leadership position during a time of difficulty.

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

Bob At least someone is speaking the truth in that clubhouse. To me, that shows leadership…

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 05:55 PM | Link to this

That is a good point boomer, we do have too many hackers on this team (Laroche, Francoeur, Andruw, Giles, even Langerhans). I think patience is probably one of the hardest things to teach, it takes years to brake that kind of habit, not one or two seasons. We do have too many hackers, which is why I say trade Giles and Laroche and bring in some OBP guys, or at least guys that won’t strikeout 120+ times a year…

By Adam

June 30, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

Giles is not as “physically strong as he’s been in the past” - wonder why that could be??? DOB, I know you could not and would not ever suggest Giles was juiced in the past, but it sure seems like a strong possibility. And I’m sure that Braves fans aren’t the only ones speculating about that. Does that make him significantly less tradeable?

And I agree with you, Ace - go get Carl Crawford at just about any price.

Lastly, with Houston falling ever further out of the race, any chance the Braves could steal Lidge?

By Bob, journalist

June 30, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

Don, it may be leadership to share your thoughts in the clubhouse with your teammates and coaches … publically proffering those opinions serves another purpose and suggests a different agenda.

By Robert

June 30, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

There’s a donkey in the dugout

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this

I can’t blame TP for the Braves lack of patience (hitting in general as of late). I mean, you know he’s trying to teach it to these guys and they just don’t act on what he’s trying to tell them. Frenchy and AJ by the way, should be allowed to HACK all they want - they’ve got the power numbers to justify it…

By Sammy Kershaw

June 30, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this

I will be damned if i can understand this “Renteria is too good at the 2 hole to let him lead off”. While that may be true as a general rule I dont think it fits this team. He is virtually the lead off hitter in every game, but when he gets to the plate there is 1 out. If the leadoff hitter is batting under .250 who cares how good the 2 hole guy is at being a 2 hole guy..

By journalist jimmy smith

June 30, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

journalist bob, it is good that you are back. dob resurfaced with an olive branch that journalist jimmy smith hopes you have placed in the living room. hk and jimmy smith were wondering if you could face jimmy smith after the “jimmy did it - not me” posts. journalist bears no grudge - dob knows jimmy smith will take an occassional shot - so jimmy smith is sure dob realized after a time that he had the wrong journalist. dob can take care of himself usually. it may be bad cheese that is making him cranky. still, he brings us news like a champion.

jimmy smith has did some bad things on this blog over the months, but he has remained a true and loyal friend to his blog buddies. jimmy smith knows journalist bob did not intend to sell journalist out. journalist jimmy smith would have confessed to dob had he read the blog sooner.

now, cold watermelon … journalist has placed a watermelon in the refrigerator for the holiday and cannot wait to cut it open. all seeds will be donated to chipper for his game day snack.

now, baseball … uh, chipper said there’d be no finger pointing, didn’t he? think the pitchers might question number ten just a little? remlinger did and he’s history - of course, the fact that he could get no one out was the major reason he is gone. still, hard to get runners out when your infielder won’t stretch for a throw.

now, hk … the graph was informative. good stuff. it tells the story of the decline.

now, bob again, yes journalist picked up on miss manners. jimmy smith has seen some posts from this mm blogger lately. decorum is much to be valued.

now that harmony on this blog has been restored we will await the arrival of the elephants. they should be here soon - the buses are runnin’.

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

If Giles was on the juice, what the hell happened??? His brother in San Diego is obviously still getting away with it, why can’t Marcus? LOL

By Larry

June 30, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

Interesting comments on the starting staff. I think they are pretty accurate - the Braves will have a fair number of lefties next year with Ramirez, James and Hampton but I would not totally count on Hampton just yet. That leaves Davies (who, let’s face it, is still unproven), Smoltz and Hudson.

I don’t see the Braves trading Hudson, too soon. He does not seem to be the “lock down” ace a great staff really needs but that does not mean he needs to be shipped out. Besides, every start you get out of Smoltz is a bonus, his arm could fall off any day now.

No one every confused Chipper Jones with a leader, not sure why folks suddenly expect him to be. There is a reason the team often told him to keep his mouth shut over the years. BTW, I would have traded him this off season rather than Andy Marte - Marte was not ready but Chipper is not hungry anymore - I would have let Betemit play 3B and kept Marte at Richmond to develop a bit more, maybe call up later in the year.

This team is not as bad as their record would indicate, but the bullpen is… They score enough runs to win a fair number of games and their starters give them enough quality starts to be considered effective. But when you bullpen hemorages runs, it is hard to win games.

This has been a long term error in the Braves ideology, good starters and patchwork bullpen - the patchwork is no longer holding - kinda like when your wall is nothing but toothpaste and you wonder why it is falling down.

By Lew

June 30, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith may have did some bad things over the last few months, but he was hit upside the head (or somewhere) with that poll that was going around, so he paid for his sins. Give him pie.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 30, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this

larry, you must stay and blog some more. that post made a lot of sense. a journalist, perhaps?

By CITYofdecatur

June 30, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

Carl Crawford bats 100 points less when batting leadoff. Do We REALLY need that÷?

By journalist jimmy smith

June 30, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

lew, jimmy smith is still hurtin’ from that poll you threw his way. and since you brought up pie … many pies will go in the oven tomorrow as letwan’s mama prepares for the 4th of july celebration. jimmy smith is invited. lew and jimmy smith never did get that pie from spring training did we? mama was on the dl at the time.

By Boomer

June 30, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Don that we need more OBP guys but the hitters we have are plenty good enough if they just go to the plate with a plan of attack. Sometimes it is good to be aggressive and hit the first good pitch you see (say against Greg Maddux) but against a pitcher that struggles with his control you have to be selective and give him a chance to get into trouble.

It seems to me that Renteria, McCann, Diaz, and sometimes Betemit have a plan when they go to them plate. The rest of the guys are just hacking even if the pitcher walked the previous 2 batters on 8 pitches. (Chipper used to do a good job of having a plan but he has looked lost at times recently.)

It seems to me that most of our hitters take the same approach (hack away) each and every time at the plate and I blame that on T.P.

Our hitters strike out way too much and our pitchers walk way to many. That combination is a recipe for an unsuccessful team whether you are playing little league, high school, or the major leagues. The hitting and pitching caoches have to come under fire in these instances.

I do not blame Sosa for giving up the home run to A-Rod the other day. A-Rod is a great hitter and Sosa is a mediocre (at best) pitcher. Home runs will happen. I can not forgive Sosa however for walking Giambi before A-Rod so that it was a walk-off homer rather than a game tying homer.

By Lew

June 30, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

Maybe next year Journalist Jimmy. Maybe we can take DOB with us to the AllStar Cafe. I think he got hit by the poll, too.

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this

Here we go, heres what we need to do tonight guys: It’s a drinking game that I played last Friday against TB: Every time a Braves batter other than Francoeur swings at a first pitch, you have to do a shot… And when Francoeur doesn’t swing at a first pitch, you do one. Good game, got me buzzin by about the 4th inning…

By DonCoburleone

June 30, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

This is my last post until probably next Wednesday… It’s gonna be a kick-a$$ 4-day weekend. Enjoy everybody and Happy 4th of July… Lets SWEEP the Orioles! GO BRAVES!!!

By 2 homo boys

June 30, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this

lets get Carl Crawford to be our leadoff hitter.

to all the homo’s in the Atlanta area,lets all band together and show our support for the Braves,lets also start a new movement to elect a homo for president,then we could have a first man,i love men,i hate women.Homo’s are the greatest.Homo’s rule.

By ILL-logical

June 30, 2006 07:00 PM | Link to this

A definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results. For the past 5 years the Braves have skimped on the bullpen,spent 60% of the payroll on 4 players and kept the same offensive philosophy: wait for a three run homer.

By ncscoots

June 30, 2006 07:03 PM | Link to this

while everyone moans about first-pitch-swinging, we should remember that pressing is a great contributor to that. When hitters are pressing, they are afraid to let ANY pitch that looks hittable go by. And before bloggers get their panties in a wad, I too have been screaming for Braves’ hitters to have a game plan in mind when they go up to bat, so it’s not as if I’m in disagreement with the consensus. I’m only saying that many things contribute to any state of affairs. In spite of the veterans on the squad, this is still a VERY young team. To expect second- and third-year players to play like ten-year vets simply isn’t realistic.

By ncscoots

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

of course, McCann already plays like a ten-year vet, but I’ve come to believe he’s not really human, so he doesn’t count, LOL!

By Head Coach

June 30, 2006 07:22 PM | Link to this

David O’Brien , Can you do me a favor ? I am totally confused as to how much Hampton is owed on his contract and who( Braves, Marlins and Rockies ) is actually responsible for what remains on his contract. You think you could shed some light on it ? If you ask me , I dont think most of the guys you mentioned( Hudson , Giles, Thomson , Sosa ) will still be Braves come July 31st.At any rate the next thirty one days are going to be highly interesting…………..

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

It would be interesting to see what we could get for Hudson in the off season. I’m not thrilled at seeing a pitcher hovering around .500 all season making $13 million in the coming seasons.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 30, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

does giles watch film? that is the most exaggerated uppercut swing jimmy smith has ever seen. if this big guy can’t throw strikes journalist wants to know - will the braves’ batters take some pitches? oh, renteria! he is quite a hitter!

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

Good Evening Blog….

Looks like a good start to tonight…….good breakd down DOB…….but you know people will still say trade chipper and smoltz no matter how you spell it out.

Mabey tonight will be the offensive explosion I’ve hoped for the past few games….

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

Since most fans vote for the All-Star team based on name recognition regardless of how well the player is doing, maybe Garner will do the right thing and pick McCann. Otherwise, look for Piazza behind the plate.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

ILL-logical,

It’s worked in the past….for the most part anyways…….post season being the exception.

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

Chuck James, b***!

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

I know it’s early but would’nt be nice to see a no hitter? I think the last one was Kent Merkers…was it not?

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

I did’nt type that!!!!!

By berigan

June 30, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

I heard Joe Simpson say Chipper and Andruw had pitiful at bats. Are the announcers getting more honest???

By Glass Half Full

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

The Angels have designated Jeff Weaver for assignment and replaced him with his brother. That should make the holidays interesting.

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

Before anyone says he’s only had 2 starts and those were against the D-Rays and Os, I’m going on record: Chuck James, b*** is going to be very good for the Braves.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 30, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

gee, jimmy smith wonders why marcus giles pops up now? shades of keith lockhart - except lockhart didn’t look quite so windmillish. windmillish is okay, right? marcus’ swing could be corrected - are there no coaches available to him? how about a tee? maybe an hour hitting off a tee would fix the problem. oh, well … if it doesn’t bother bobby it shouldn’t bother jimmy smith. now, diaz … he is sitting in favor of a player hitting .115. oh well, if bobby doesn’t want a .339 hitter in the lineup, neither does jimmy smith. now, pie … where is raisins when we want to talk pie? now, developer … brian jordan just got a freebie on tbs.

By Calvin

June 30, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

Chuck James looks like the real deal.

By Lew

June 30, 2006 08:35 PM | Link to this

I tell you, Giles pops up and grounds to short because he is an opposite field hitter batting with an open stance. He’s naturally fighting his strngth with a weakness.

By David O'Brien

June 30, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

If you didn’t hear (I forgot to answer earlier), Kevin Barry was the move to make room for Reitsma. Optioned to Richmond.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 08:51 PM | Link to this

I think AJ got fooled on that one.

By Dirty Dawg

June 30, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

Had to stop watching the game and visit here…will somebody, anybody, shut Don Sutton and Skip Carey the hell up. I know I’ve never particlarly cared for Sutton…and Carey’s got a bit of his daddy’s smartassedness…but together, with their incessent, ad-nauseum blabber about whatever they think we want to hear is driving me absolutely crazy. Stop them before I throw the TV out the window. It seems as if each one of them feels they need to get in the last word. Hell, they were so busy trying to out talk each other they almost missed Andrew Jones’ great catch.

Sutton, who cares what you think. You should have done that deal with the Dodgers a half a dozen years ago and we’d have been rid of you. I mean, if TBS isn’t going to be doing that many games, why can’t we have somebody else?

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

Don’t complain, Dirty Dawg. Anyone is preferable to Rathbun and Torborg.

By Glass Half Full

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

Here’s where we find out about Chuck James. Sure he gave up 3 runs, but he didn’t completely meltdown afterwards.

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this

How much does McCann rule?

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

Totally gay at bat for Francoeur

By Carroll

June 30, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

If the Braves really want to solve this problem, here’s the answer. I think we all agree Chiper is not what he used to be…and he’s maing WAY to much money for what he does contribute….he’s very injury prone….and some, including myself, would contend that his attitude and slothiness hurts the morale of the team. As DOB points out, he’d be hard to trade because of his salary BUT this just may work.

The Angels are so desperate for a power hitter that they’re wiling to give up Chone Figgins (potential leadoff man and cheap, young replacement for Giles at 2B or LF) AND Jeff Weaver (and eat his entire salary).

I’m not saying that Weaver is fantastic, but he’d be basically free for the rest of the year, we’d be rid of Chipper’s albatross salary, Betemit could play every day, and we’d have room for the youngsters. Who knows….maybe Weaver would make a good closer. If not, we could use him to plug the gaping hole in our rotation when Smoltz and/or Hudsy get dealt.

Thoughts?

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

go gilly!!!!!!!!!1

By Calvin

June 30, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this

Why is Matt Diaz in the game instead of Thorman? That is a perplexing move considering Diaz has shown at times that he does not belong out there.

By Robert

June 30, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

There’s a donkey in the dugout clap your hands (Hee-Haw!) There’s a donkey in the dugout clap your hands (Hee-Haw!)_ He’s a donkey and we know it And he’ll find a way to blow it There’s a donkey in the dugout clap your hands (HEE HAW!)

Everybody sing

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

nice to see the bullpen hold a lead right after we take one back

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this

Calvin,

Have you watched many Braves games?

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

where you at chipper haters?

By Calvin

June 30, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

TBFNB, I watch all the Braves games I can. I know that Diaz is not a great defensive left fielder. I would rather see Thorman, who is faster than Diaz, out there. But then again, it is just my opinion.

By Glass Half Full

June 30, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

Sometimes it looks like Andruw is really going to hurt himself swinging

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

June 30, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

Oh….just wondering….cuz bobby loves to put in right vs left and vise versa…….so it did not seem surprising to me….especailly since you have Langerhans on the bench for defence.

By Calvin

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

I didn’t say it was surprising. I was just questioning the move. I actually expected when Diaz pinch hit for James.

By ernesto

June 30, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, seriously, non-hater question, but are they really thinking Reitsma has anything left? I mean anything at all? His last few times out, even in mop up work, have been painful to watch. I think they should have taken his “rehab” a little slower, say 60 days.

By CharlotteDave

June 30, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

I think Smoltz is right, at least in spirit. I don’t know about putting an exact number on it, but it’s essential the Braves do more on this homestand than just have a winning record. At this point that old thing of trying to win two out of every three doesn’t quite cut it in the short term. The Braves need a hot stretch that would get them back to within shouting distance of 500 fairly quickly. I could live with 7 and 3, but the better the better.

By TennesseePaul

June 30, 2006 11:55 PM | Link to this

When told the Braves have had a closer named (Ken) Ray, he simply told a longtime Atlanta columnist that he has a (Chris) Ray of his own
—Mark Bowman, mlb.com

Was this you DOB? Sooner or later Bowman was just going to have to fess up.

Good game tonight! I’m liking the way this is going. We’ve seen some incredible pitching lately. Our hitting is getting better… Chipper is getting hot. Yankees are going to sweep the Mets. They must! We’re going to sweep these Birds as well. We’ll be 11.5 games out and ready to pounce in August.
Chuck James B!tch.
GO BRAVES!!

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 1, 2006 12:06 AM | Link to this

boy when your this far out 11.5 seems close dont it…….very slight chance of us winning the division…..wonder what the wild card standings will be if we can sweep the homestand……thats dreaming though

By TheSouthernJackAss

July 1, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this

TheSouthernJackAss doesn’t appreciate being put down by DOB on his meaningless little blogs—-kidding around is one thing, but Dob you just can’t let things rest can you? You get your little panties all in an uproar and think you can refer to people, of which you know nothing about, in any manner you like. Well b***, you’re about to find out a little more about TheSouthernJackAss than you expected. So continue to run your dicksucker and make your snide remarks…I’ll definitely give you the opportunity to repeat them to my face…and we shall see who shall prevail!

By tyyosh

July 1, 2006 12:35 AM | Link to this

I dunno DOB, This season does not have much wiggle room left! It’s great to see a leader draw a line in the sand. So what if they fail, does it make the season any worse? But what if it provides the young guys something to latch onto, to focus, to galvanize the team into a short term goal?

I do wonder if Chipper was not here, if someone else would assume a stronger leadership role among the everyday players. Smoltz seems to be clearly leading on the pitching side, but there seems to be no one from the everyday side. I don’t think Chipper is it - do you, from your vantage point?

By tyyosh

July 1, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this

BTW DOB,

That was one of the best blogs I have seen. Full of reasoned conclusions and observations from a view we cannot have, the kind of stuff that is really interesting to chew on. Thank you.

By Dirty Dawg

July 1, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this

A little late getting back to it, but I couldn’t disagree more about the knock on Rathbun and Torborg. If you don’t like Torborg’s insights you don’t like baseball.

Believe me those two have got it way over Sutton and Caray. And if you didn’t catch it, the crack about Skip - particularly Sutton’s comment, was really funny…given that those two - Don and Skip - can’t stand each other.

By HBG

July 1, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this

to the tun of ” Bringing in the Sheaves”

Donkey in the blog, Donkey in the blog, and his name is Robert, Donkey in the blog…

Donkey in the blog, donkey in the blog, he thinks he knows it all but, he’s a donkey in the blog!

By chopthis

July 1, 2006 02:56 AM | Link to this

Hey Dave —

The SJA definitely doesn’t take it as well as I do when you call him tiresome and irrelevant. I’d watch my back at The Ted the next few nights if I were you.

By chopthis

July 1, 2006 03:08 AM | Link to this

“It’s awesome to know if you give up a few runs, they’ll pick you up,” said James.

Poor dumb kid. Smoltz has a lot to teach him.

By ncscoots

July 1, 2006 06:17 AM | Link to this

In the main, I’d agree that Hampton is untradeable, but I’m sure that’s what everybody thought before he was traded last time. I think he COULD be tradeable, but Braves would have to pick up part of the dollars for at least a year, or some such other creative packaging. That, too, would relieve some of the payroll blockage. I’m not saying that he should be traded, or even that the Braves would lokk at such a deal, I’m just pointing out that his contract has been considered “untradeable” before.

By ncscoots

July 1, 2006 06:50 AM | Link to this

Carroll, just read thru the blog and saw your post on trading Chipper. I’ve always found your posts to be cogent, but I believe you might have been off the planet when you wrote this one! Since Jeff Weaver has stunk up the joint ever since he left Detroit, you basically proposing Chipper Jones for Chone Figgins straight up. Huh? I can’t believe you thought that one through, bubba.

By jerry

July 1, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

Right on Dirty Dawg.Also on Sutton, he is the worst major league radio play-by-play announcer that I have ever heard.He should stick to color and they all should be reminded that most people tune in to the game,not to hear their opinions.

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

scoots: you can’t look at everything in terms of black and white numbers. Weaver is a power arm with some good years left if we could get his head screwed on straight. Maybe, if we get him under Leo’s tutiledge….oh yeah….nevermind.

No but seriously, I think he’s worth a flyer since he would basically be for free. Perhaps we could make him a closer and he’d become dominating (a la Gagne). We’d also get a potential leadoff man in FIggins (we desperately need speed). And maybe if you’re still not happy we could get them to throw in Shields.

The main thing with my proposal, is that it gives us a way to get rid of Chipper. Remember back in 1990, the way this whole run got started was when we made the difficult move to get rid of Murphy. We ended up getting squat for him, but the main thing was that we were able to get rid of his contract and clear room for the youngsters. See what I mean?

By Dale R.

July 1, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

Braves will be fine, maybe Liberty will open up the wallet and we can keep all of our pitchers?

The Braves will go on a serious tear in the second half and win the Wild Card and then the World Series..you heard it hear first.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Good God people, was DOB correct? Some of you actually do sound like a bunch of whining 8th graders. Some of you haven’t even made it to middle school. Southern JackAss-Is it always necessary to live up to your blof name? If all that some of you have to gripe about is the Braves announcers, you sure do lead shallow and meaningless lives. It seems like the Donkey is really blogging on AJC, not in the Braves’ dugout.Grow up a**holes.

By Johnny Taco

July 1, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

Carroll,

What real value did Dale Murphy have in 1990? His knees were shot and he was burned out after carrying the Braves’ on his back for so many years. He ended his career in Colorado and couldn’t muster enough strength to hit just one or two homers to reach 400 career.

Since we are stuck with Chipper (power outtage) and Mike Hampton’s (value unknown after a year-plus layoff) big contracts, Tim Hudson is the most marketable player on the roster. Trade him before the $13 million per year kicks in, free up some money and let Schuerholz start addressing some needs. Hudson is not the Maddux or Glavine we envisioned when the Braves acquired him from Oakland.

It makes no sense to tie up 70% of your payroll in five players : Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, Andruw and Chipper. What’s left to spend on the remaining 20 players?

Wonder why we have the bullpen we do ?

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this

Johnny: I don’t think Chipper is much more valuable to us right now than Murph was in 1990. And his contract is killing us just as badly as Murphy’s was. Basically, the payroll that would be freed up by moving Chipper and the flexibility that would provide is more valuable to us right now than Chipper is.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

How many times must we go into this? Chipper is a 10-5 player and can’t be traded without his approval. The Angels are not going to trade Chone Figgins for him. He is not a drain on the team. If any of you would take the time to notice, he is the second leading hitter on the team (regular everyday players) and has 12 hits in his past 6 games. Could his power shortage have something to do with the injuries in SF? Could the power shortage have anything to do with the fact that he’s not getting good pitches to hit because Andruw is not inspiring the fear he did last year. He also, I believe, leads the team in runs scored. Here’s an idea. Have HIM lead off instead of Marcus. He also has a .300 career average. Since when is this a bad thing? He is hardly over the hill or ready for the scrap heap just because he may no longer be MVP material. I swear you people know darn little about baseball if you think Chipper is not a desireable player for our team. Besides, if he is as bad as you think, why would anyone else want him. Chipper for Chone Figgins and Jeff Weaver. Yeah sure, that one’s going to happen.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

One more thing. Carroll, his contract is not killing us-the bullpen is. If you look back to when the Braves had payroll to spend, they STILL DID NOT SPEND IT ON THE BULLPEN. This is nothing new, it just finally caught up with us.

By fprex

July 1, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

I’m constantly reminded that DOB and Sekou Smith are the most talented at the AJC. Thank you.

Great synopsis of things for the Braves.

A few other random musings…

Does anyone remember which manager(s) used to pull names from a hat to determine the lineup during long losing streaks? I want to say Billy Martin but there was another manager that tried that as well. Wouldn’t hurt…might also bring a little fun to the team, a little league feel that these guys need.

Short of pulling names from a hat, how about a lineup of Renteria, McCann, Chipper, Andruw, LaRoche, Francouer, Giles and Diaz????? Worth trying.

Schuerholz looks like he’s still trying to see if we are buyers or sellers. If we’re sellers, I’m for dealing Hudson with that escalating salary. I do NOT see him as a top of the line ace and would much rather save all that money. Next year’s rotation will have Smoltz, Hampton, Horacio, Davies, Chuck James, and Glavine (he’ll sign on the cheap to end his career here…we’ll need 6 starters with Hampton’s return). Deal Thomson and Hudson and fill holes elsewhere.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this

Let’s take a look at next year. Thomson is gone at a savings of $4.5 mil. Reitsma is gone at a savings of I believe $3mil. Jordan is gone. Another mil. Sosa is gone. Another $2mil. That right there is $10.5 million dollars. If Thomson ever gets healthy AND consistent, we may get something in a trade for him. If Sosa gets his act together and quits giving up HRs, he might be worth something in a trade. The way to go trade wise is get rid of Hudson and Giles. They both have trade value. Hudson is due to make $6 mil next year and Marcus could get $5mil in arbitration. It’s not the big contracts killing us, it’s the mid size ones. With what I’ve just talked about, you’re talking $21.5 million in savings. Think about it.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this

If we even have a season next year. The Collective Bargaining Agreement is up after the season.

By Johnny Taco

July 1, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

Carroll,

I think you & I agree on Dale Murphy, who, as a 5 & 10 player, was traded. I don’t see how Mr. “I Live For This” on thirdbase is exempt from being traded. If Houston or Texas made an inquiry, you don’t think Chipper Jones might entertain the thought of a trade with his ranch and family on that big Texas ranch? Yeah, Chipper has the third highest average (after McCann & Renteria) on the team, as if that means anything (.280 something). What is he hitting with runners in scoring position? He leaves runners on most of the time. He’ll get some hits or an occasional HR when the game is out of hand. The Chipper apologists are drinking some serious Kool Aid !

Tom Glavine will not be in a Braves uniform in 2007. If he wins 20 games this season (likely), perhaps a Cy Young, and leads the Mets to the post-season (probable), do you think the Mets will let him go, so he can go back to Atlanta at a reduced rate? Where’s the money going to come from? Hmm.

After the bullpen I want to see a serious upgrade in leftfield, preferable someone who has speed and a great onbase percentage. Carl Crawford would be awesome.

By Joe Roman

July 1, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

I’ve taken a vacation from AJC coverage and this blog in particular because all the handwringing is both repetitive and depressing. Here in Baltimore, the TBS coverage was blacked out, so I had to watch the Orioles’ feed. I was pleased to see the fans at Turner Field so supportive. As the Baltimore anouncers were saying and as the standings attest, the Braves have a very good shot at second place by the All-Star break making a run at the Mets not all that unrealistic. Adding James and subtracting Sosa is a very positive development. With Smoltzie and HoRam, that’s three dependable starters. It just might be enough.

By Bobby Cox

July 1, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Reitsma gone? Jordan gone? Thomson gone?

Man, I’m depending on these guys next season! I’ve even talked John into bringing back Remmie for a second look in spring training. We could have used him against the Yankees this week, with all those right-handed hitters. A-Rod would have been helpless.

If Gilly leaves us, we have a backup plan in place. Keith Lockhart has been tearing it up in a church softball league this summer, and looks great. He’s a definite option.

Me and Leo are getting ready to have lunch in Buckhead. Come on out to the game tonight. Its July and we all know what Reitsma did last July. Lights out !

Bobby

By Kent

July 1, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz… I have wholeheartedly agreed for years now with Smoltzy that his place is in the rotation. But I’m not entirely sure if I will still feel that way at the start of next season.

My hope is that he can remain a starter. The best possible scenario for the Braves is to find a serviceable closer, and leave Smoltz right where he is. Even if that closer is nowhere near as good as Smoltz was in that role… If we can simply find a decent closer, that would be enough to dictate keeping Smoltzy in the rotation.

There are still people suggesting that the Braves should send him back to the pen tomorrow.

No way.

You have to remember that statistically, he is the most prolific post-season starter of all time. If you don’t believe me, check out the numbers for yourself. That fact often gets lost because nobody tends to equate the Braves franchise (or any of its players) with post-season success. Add to that the fact that Smoltz was overshadowed in this rotation for so many years by Maddux and Glavine, and you have the most underappreciated clutch pitcher in baseball.

However having said that, the Braves will be 6-deep in the rotation at the start of next season. The first thought is that the Braves will trade one of the starters for bullpen help or a leadoff hitter. But what if they still can’t find a closer by the start of next season? (I’m assuming here that Jorge Sosa doesn’t turn in to Mariano Riviera over the next month or two). There won’t be any top-notch closers eligible for free agnecy this winter, except for Eric Gagne, and if you think the Braves are going to outbid the Dodgers for his services, I have some oceanfront property…

In short: As hard as Shuerholz has certainly been working, and will continue to work at fixing the bullpen issues (althought it’s been decent of late, it still needs repair), There is a possibility that he simply won’t be able to pick up a closer before next April.

If that’s the case, as much as it kills me to even mention it… we happen to have an elite closer already in a Braves uniform, and 5 other quality starters next season…

Hmmm. Again, my hope is that we’ll be able to go out and get a ninth inning guy, but if we don’t, I may have to advocate something I thought I never would…

By Lew

July 1, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

Johnny Taco, I am not a Chipper apologist, I just have a realistic idea of what the situation is. I don’t drink Kool Aid in any form whatsoever. As far as Carl Crawford goes, what do you think we could get him for? When we tried to get Baez in Spring Training they wanted either McCann or Davies AND Saltalamacchia. JS, of course shot them an obscene gesture and passed on the deal. Would you be willing to give up that package for CRawford? If you were you would be one of the worst GM’s in history. The wouldn’t want Hudson because they are not going to pick up the contract. They wouldn’t want Giles because they already have Jorge Cantu. Chipper’s sa;lary wouldn’t fill them with a warm fyzzy glow, either. As far as either Texas team, they don’t need a third baseman and as far as DH, you just said Chipper can’t hit with RISP. Why would the Rangers want him if they think like you. Chipper will retire as a Brave. Besides, he still has to approve the trade, if one could even be made. Yes he is batting .288, but a week ago he was batting .271 and in a slump. You must be a chick because obviously you dig the long ball. Other than power numbers, his hitting is fine and usually very consistent. Murphy, at the end of his career was not consistent in any way.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

Excuse me, 6 days ago Chipper was hitting .270 and after last night’s game, is hitting .291.

By TennesseePaul

July 1, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

Lew: Well put on Chipper. He isn’t going to be traded. It’s out of the question. Same with Smoltz. I could see Hudson being traded due to the rise of Chuck James and Kyle Davies and the rebirth of HoRam. We’ll have a completely untradable Hampton next season and Smoltz.

This team can make it. July is going to be a tough month. They must win against some strong teams. But, if they want to make it to the post season, that’s just what they’ll have to do. I’m hoping they can play above .500 and knock of at least a game or two in the standings. I’d like to see July end with the Braves about 8 or 9 out.
August is going to be our month. We play celler dwellers that month and the Mets play stronger teams. That’s when we make this a race. And on top of all that, the Braves have 9 games remaining against the Mets. There is still a lot of ball and a lot of opportunities left to win this thing.

except for Eric Gagne, and if you think the Braves are going to outbid the Dodgers for his services
I’m not so sure the Dodgers are going to bid high for this guy. They need a solid closer, but Gange has been about as affective as Kerry Wood these past two years. He signed a two year $20 million deal and has spent the majority of it on the DL or suspended.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Thanks Tennessee Paul, also a good point on Gagne. Look at the Blue Jays and how much they spent on a bullpen this year. If we save the $21.5 mil I talked about earlier on the mid-size contracts, we may have the money to do the same. One thing for sure is that if we try for quick fixes, we will screw up. Look at Len Barker for Brett Butler. That was a great move.

By Jim

July 1, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

It would be nice to have Crawford as our everyday LF, but we don’t have the players to make that trade. We can’t give up young pitching (HoRam, James, Davies) — we don’t have a surplus of young arms and pitching, even more than speed and hitting, is what wins championships. Salty is hitting below the Mendoza line in AA, and we don’t have a lot of other desirable prospects (just look at the records of Richmond and Miss.) TB will not take any of our pricey vets. Would any of you trade McCann and maybe a prospect other than Salty for Crawford?

By Jimbo

July 1, 2006 12:16 PM | Link to this

Thank you Sports Illustrated…that dope Frenchy is killing us. And I’m tired of this crap that he is only 22 years old. Many other players come into this League with at least an idea of the strike zone and a plan to their at bats. This clown has neither. Many of his coaches along the line failed him. It may have worked in High School but he looks like a fool up here. How about some “tough love” for him for a change? Maybe that will help instead of patting him on the head after each ridiculous at bat. If someone doesn’t change his approach he’ll be the same clown when he is 32. If someone teaches him properly he will be a genuine superstar.

By Mad Hungarian

July 1, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

Lew,

You do appear to be a Chipper Jones’ apologist. Looking over his statistics the past several seasons how can you justify payong him over $13 million a season? Yeah, he’s been injured. He’s also getting old and is obviously a player in his declining years. His defense is atrocious. At this point in his career he’d be better off DHing. He will not retire in a Braves uniform. If Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Dale Murphy, A-Rod can be traded, Zipper Jones can too. Other than you and the Hooters’ locations around Atlanta, nobody will miss his arrogance and “wo is me” attitude in the dugout.

You’re realistic?

What are your GM credentials?

What GM would tie up most of your payroll in five players, leaving nothing for the other 20 players? This is why Schuerholz was run out of Kansas City after he bankrupted them when he signed Mark Davis. Then he had the gall to bring him to the Braves in a desperate move to improve our bullpen. Sound familiar?

This is just history repeating itself.

He’ll be retiring soon, leaving the next GM to clean up the mess and re-stock the farm system.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

Hungarian, I’m sorry, but you’re wrong on several counts. First, I’m not a Chipper apologist, I’m a realist. He won’t be traded. He is getting older and has had injuries. However, he is not chopped liver, just not a super star. He is also, I believe making closer to $11 mil per year. Even Furcal is making more than that and he will never have over 300 Hr in his career. You also have to be able to trade him. First off, he has approvalpower over any trade. Sorry, but that is a fact of life. You also have to find someone who would take him. If the perception is that he can no longer hit for power or with RISP, who the hell do you think will take him? You make the mistake of thinking I will miss him. Where have you heard me say this? I haven’t, just that he is basically untradeable. Tell me where I am wrong here. As far as Ruth goes, the Red Sox are still kicking themselves for letting him go. Dale Murphy was definitely at the end of his career-Chipper is not. I’m still not sure why Hank was traded, stupid, wasn’t it? ARod was still very young when he was traded and the Rangersd never should have signed him to begin with. Sorry, no Kool Aid here, buddy.

By Ron Mexico 7

July 1, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this

Get rid of the golden child Francoeur before the rest of the league finds out what a bust he is. His OBP percentage is embaressing and his attempts to get the glorious home run when any hit will score a run are killing the braves.

By Jim

July 1, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Hudson is the big money vet I’d most like to see traded. He does not “miss a lot of bats”. He gets behind in the count nibbling at the bottom of the strike zone and gives up way too many walks. The hitters are able to put the ball in play, whether it is fouling off a 2-strike pitch or finding a hole in the defense. He is inconsistent from start to start and even from inning to inning. He has not been a stopper and is not worth the salary he will be paid.

Where to trade Hudson (or any of the other high priced 5). Don’t say the Yankees — they will not trade Cano or Hughes and do not have much else to offer. The Phillies will be selling, not buying. The RedSox traded some of their top prospects this winter and will be cautious about depleting their system further. They won’t trade Lester, but may move Hansen (and Ellsbury?) The Angels have a lot of good prospects, but will they go after a Hudson after their experience with Jeff Weaver? The Cardinals could use a pitcher, but do not have much in the minor leagues to return (Wainright?). The White Sox could use a CF but need little else. Would the Tigers give us back Minor and Colon (or Zumaya) for Hudson or Smoltz? They may go after a veteran pitcher to bolster their playoff credentials by July 31.

By Bocephus

July 1, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Mark Davis?

Bryan Harvey. Gregg Olson. Jeff Reardon. Juan Berenguer. Albie Lopez. Dan Kolb. Chris Reitsma.

Soon Schuerholz will be trotting in Gene Garber and Kent Tekulve for a tryout.

Are John Franco and Jesse Orosco around?

Where’s Spooneybarger these days?

By Joe Roman

July 1, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

As the old cliche’ goes, “I get down on my knees and pray to God every day” that these idiots who post here are only general managers of the Braves in their childish minds. Oh yeah, let’s trade young players with a future for old ones with none. Let’s trade stars as dependable as sunrises for those their GMs wouldn’t give up unless they’d had lobotomies.

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

Lew, no worries about next season. There’s no potential roadblock in CBA negotiations this time around, for once. At least nothing that would cause a strike/lockout. Season will begin on time next season, count on it.

Did I hear a peep out of the masochist who can’t keep himself away from this space? Thought so. Your threats … whew, I don’t know if I’ll be able to work tonight looking over my shoulder.

Whatever, dude. Whatever.

By krath

July 1, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this

The SI article that featured Francouer’s numbers is dead on. The Braves announcers and some (key word being some) others in tv and print media seem to want to find the silver lining to the Francouer saga. The SI article actually put it in perspective.

I wouldn’t have such high expectations from Frenchy if he didn’t have an unlimited upside. He seems to be his own worst enemy. The book on him has always been that he is stubborn and sometimes doesn’t listen to his coaches and managers, or at least he had the rep in the minors.

Last night, he struck out on a pitch that actually hit the plate!!! Now that is nothing but having a 10 cent head. The guy looks like he’s deciding when the pitcher goes into his wind up if he’s gonna swing at the next pitch or not.

What if he hits .270 with 30 HRs and 100 RBI? (except the Obp stinks) Nothing wrong with that unless you are capable of hitting 320 with 50 and 130 if you would only listen to instruction.

The guy needs an intervention like you see with those people on drugs. He thinks nothing is wrong but those who love him (lol) need to step in and sit his young a@@ down until he starts showing some plate discipline.

I suppose it does sound nuts when someone is on track to hit 30 homers and drive in 100 and he gets criticized. But when he is capable of much more, it isn’t wrong to expect him to modify his behavior so he can become all he can be. And if he won’t do it on his own, sit him down until he gets the message.

Part of the problem in the past has been that the playoffs have been good enough. That philosophy doesn’t need to carry on to what should be expected of Francouer.

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

Joe Roman, good points, my friend. Good points.

Bocephus, thought you’d want to know this: Bobby Cox is really good friends with the real Bocephus, Hank Jr. Hank was in the clubhouse for a game late last season, and he hangs with Bobby once in a while in offseason (Hank’s a big hunter-fisherman with a ranch not far from Bobby’s place up in Adairsville. Well, I say not far, but it might actually be in Alabama. Not TOO far).

Anyway, Hank called him in New York at Yankee Stadium to see if Bobby could leave a couple of tix, which he did. I’m sitting in Bobby’s office and he’s returning a message from Hank Jr., “Hey Hank, this is Bobby. Got your message. Give me a call on my cell phone at ….” (I’ll leave the number out, for obvious reasons)

By Jimbo

July 1, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

Bravo Krath…well said. The key point is Frenchy could be doing so much better if he had the proper mentality. When his on base percentage is nearly the same as his batting average,,,there is something wrong. Someone needs to break him of his horrible habits.

By krath

July 1, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

The SJA reminds me of lots of people I’ve met online over the years. Like old Fido the dog…can dish it out but can’t take it. And when you hit a nerve…. then they start the veiled threat thing.

It’s easy to make threats on a keyboard. It’s especially easy when you’re dealing with a public person like DOB. The person thinks they have the upper hand because DOB is a public figure who knows nothing about who or where the SJA is.

Where have you people been? In this post 9/11 world online threats even to individuals are taken more seriously than ever! You can’t do that stuff! How long do you think it would take for someone in law enforcement to get the info about where the SJA’s post are originating from? How long before they knock on the SJA’s front door with a pair of handcuffs should DOB or anyone for that matter decide to push it?

If you blog and criticize, you have to accept it when you have been criticized in return. If you can’t take it, then don’t dish it out! If you have a thin skin then don’t start throwing darts at others.

What ever happened to being able to carry on a discussion and disagreeing without making every post a confrontation?

geez!

By Joe Roman

July 1, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this

Random Thoughts: If SI says it, I recommend ignoring it. Their baseball “analysis” has been laughable for as long as I can remember. Jerks like SJA play into the hands of those who want to monitor the Internet. What kind of a coward does it take to threaten another when he doesn’t even have the courage to put his own name to those threats? The AJC may have its faults but its sports department isn’t one of them. Fine columnists? Sure, but beat writers don’t get any better than DAVE O’BRIEN. Your name should always be in bold face type, Dave.

By Head Coach

July 1, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

Ditto Krath , I couldnt have said it much better. By the way , did anyone see the power rankings and read about the American leagues dominance in interleague play ? 8 of the top 10 are A.L. teams and the top five are A.L. teams…….. Anyone want to take an educated guess as to who will win the All-Star game and the World Series ? I’ll take the A.L and Whitesox with my doughnut and coffee. You Mets fans enjoy the regular season because thats all your season…….. period. Francoeur worships at the alter of Dave Kingman , the kid is a five tool monster talent who needs to pull his head out of his butt. DAVID O’BRIEN , you didnt answer my question about Hamptons contract ????????????

By krath

July 1, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

I disagree with Joe Roman on the validity of the observation made in the SI article about Francouer. I may not like the messenger,but I feel at least the point of the message was valid. Would I move Francouer now? NO WAY! I think he has superstar potential. I only want to see it realized.

On the other hand, I do Totally Agree with the rest of Joe Roman’s post

By ernesto

July 1, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

I think the SI insight isn’t complete BS. I was never a big Jeromy Burnitz guy, he’d bash some homers but that windmill would also strike out 120 times a season. And a strike out is the most unproductive out possible. Frenchy could be on his way to beign that kind of guy, unless he learns some discipline up there.

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

Lew:

1. Our bullpen is killing us because Chipper’s contract is so big that we can’t afford other players.

2. I know he’s a 10/5 guy but he has said plenty of times that he would not be averse to a trade. So quit using that as a cop-out every time somebody mentions trading him. You and DOB say that every time as if it means he can never be traded under any circumstances.

By Joe Roman

July 1, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

The thing about SI, guys, is this. Practically calling for Francoeur to be worshiped as a god after a half season last year and practically calling him a bum after a half season THIS year is indicative of the lack of nuance that plagues most sports journalism. I was in journalism for thirty years, and dealing in absolute superlatives demonstrates weak, lazy reporting, and that is putting it kindly.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

journalist jimmy smith must enter this love-fest and also praise the work of esteemed beat writer, dob. true, jimmy smith might occassionally be considered the burr under dob’s saddle (nice horse, feeling much better, thanks) but as the beat writer, dob is best - and he knows he is held in admiration by this journalist. dob is better even than jounalist jimmy smith himself (who has mastered transition). when the old journalist takes note of your work you have arrived and the old journalist was seen at turner field putting cheese on crackers right on top of a copy of the ajc turned to dob’s article. that’s enough for jimmy smith right there! now, it may be that there are a few bloggers who suck up to dob hoping dob will throw a few grains their way -but journalist jimmy smith is not that way. this journalist has did everything in jimmy smith’s power to wrangle a wurlitzer award for dob. maybe next year if all goes well the prize will be dob’s. then, journalist will try to win one for jimmy smith. so, in closing, jimmy smith would like to say that jimmy smith misses journalist dave kindred very much but jourmalist reads dob when journalist needs news of the braves. dob also works on the 4th of july and that is very much appreciated by fans of the atlanta braves. now, bob … where is journalist bob and does bob wish to enter this love-fest before dinner? many threats are being made on this blog and it is well known that bob is a peacemaker - peace not pace, bob. lew, if everybody ate pie more people would get along. selah

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

OK, please save these figures:

Hampton’s 8-year, $121 million contract, originally signed with Colorado before 2001 season

He had a $21 signing bonus and these salaries:

2001 $6 mill

2002 $8.5 mill

2003 $11 mill

2004 $12 mill

2005 $12.5 mill

2006 $13.5 mill

2007 $14.5 mill

2008 $15 mill

2009 buyout $6 mill (already paid, or will be paid, by Colorado

$1 mill payment to Hampton Foundation, paid by Colorado

On the signing bonus, $19 million of it is deferred without interest until the end of the contract, then deferred with 3 percent compounded interest.

NOW, the IMPORTANT STUFF FOR BRAVES FANS:

Colorado and Florida paid $30 mill of the $35.5 mill Hampton made during past three seasons (after he was traded to Braves through Florida in three-team deal). Braves paid $5.5 mill.

Braves are responsible for full $43 mill in last three years of deal (this season through 2008), but insurance is paying at least 50 percent of his salary this year. I can’t get any more accurate than that, but will ask once more. I keep getting vague answers, but everyone i’ve talked to said at least or around 50 percent. No one said 80 percent, no one I’ve talked to, though that figure has floated out there, probably by persons just guessing or repeating rumors).

Anyway, Braves figure their total commitment, for their payroll purposes, at just over $8 mill per season for the six years he’s with team. How the insurance affects their payroll this season isn’t completely clear, because they simply won’t say. They just won’t. But for next two seasons, he’ll count as $8 mill for their inter-office payroll purposes.

That’s it. That’s what I know. Again, cut and paste it, please.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 1, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this

see what jimmy smith means?

By Chop Chop

July 1, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

The main thing to remember from that is that the Braves are budgeting him, for payroll purposes, at $8 million a year. Because of that, the current front office can’t use that as an excuse for not spending money that has been freed up by Chipper and Smoltz. However, new ownership could use that as an excuse.

By Chop Chop

July 1, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

The main thing to remember from that is that the Braves are budgeting him, for payroll purposes, at $8 million a year. Because of that, the current front office can’t use that as an excuse for not spending money that has been freed up by Chipper and Smoltz. However, new ownership could use that as an excuse.

By Chop Chop

July 1, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

The dreaded double post. Bah.

By Head Coach

July 1, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

Thanks , DOB , your way too kind. I think 2009 is an option year, I coud be wrong . I will paste it , thanks again.

By Chop Chop

July 1, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

The excuse for new ownership would be to count Hampton’s salary for what it really is the next two years and use any money anybody defers to pay for it.

By Realist

July 1, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

When I see the dollars being blown on Chipper Jones & Mike Hampton the next couple of years, and new ownership coming in, what kind of money will be available to address our pressing needs?

If Chipper & Hampton were stocks, and looking at the “Return on the Investment” the Braves are getting, it would be time to SELL !

29.5 million for Hampton in 2007-08 ? BRILLIANT !

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

head coach, 2009 was an option year, but was already bought out as part of the three-team trade.

By Head Coach

July 1, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

Wow , what a mess. all that money tied up in Andruw , Smoltz , Chipper , Hampton , Hudson and Renteria. An approximate 80 million payroll, a record of 34-46 with the trade deadline a month away and new ownership on the way. I wouldnt want John Scheurholz job right now ,no matter how much they paid me.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

My God, you need to be an accountant or attorney just to figure out what’s happening. DOB, as far as the CBA goes, I had lunch with an AL player during Spring Training (I was painting his portrait) and he mentioned that some players were banking the merchandising money just in case. Don’t have any idea who or how many, but common consensus was that someone was bound to screw something up. I’m also certain that your inside info is more on the money than mine is. I only talked to one player, though half the team was sitting next to us. I’m more concerned that MLB will screw something up as opposed to the players. They have in the past and I’m still not positive that they have a firm grasp on reality.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

Carroll what you don’t seem to understand is that in order to make a trade for Chipper you must A.Negotiate a trade B.Have Chipper sign off on that trade. These are facts of life, not my or DOB’s imagination. Now I have heard that Chipper has said that he would entertain a trade to one of the Texas teams. Stop and think. Houston has Ensberg at third. Would you trade for Chipper and bench or trade Ensberg? Even more relevant, would Houston? I doubt it. OK, that leaves the Rangers. They have Blaylock at third, whose numbers at this time are superior to Chipper’s. Now all I have heard for weeks is that Chipper can no longer hit for power or with RISP. If the Rangers were to believe this, as it is obvious a large number of Braves’ fans do, then why would they want him for DH? As I’ve said before, I am not partaking of KoolAid (how the hell did we ever get a JIm JOnes reference on this blog, anyway)? I’m just being totally realistic about the situation. You may want Chipper gone, traded, released, or even physically hurt for all I know, but that doesn’t mean any of this will happen. As far as a trade goes, it is highly unlikely it will happen and yes, Chipper must approve it before he does go to another team.

By MoJo

July 1, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Lew,

In addition to painting, are you an attorney as well?

Chipper is projected to hit 18 homeruns this year, and less than 90 RBIs. For 13+ million dollars (per ESPN), that’s not much of a return.

By MoJo

July 1, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Lew,

In addition to painting, are you an attorney as well?

Chipper is projected to hit 18 homeruns this year, and less than 90 RBIs. For 13+ million dollars (per ESPN), that’s not much of a return.

By berigan

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

DOB, thanks for posting the Hampton figures. So, he basically pitched for free the last few years, and insurance is covering 50% of this year. It somehow doesn’t look all that bad, all things considered. With the money saved there, and with Chipper’s money deferred, it would seem like we had some money to play with now. I wonder what would happen if Chipper agreed to a trade with the deferred money? IF the Braves were willing to pay some of his salary(If Chipper was traded) we could trade Chipper that way.

I think a lot will depend on how the Braves play the rest of the way. Play .500 ball the rest of the way, Chipper and Smoltz will want to stick around. But, another terrible stretch, and both may beg for a trade. Can’t keep blowing those games Smoltz pitches in.

By Carroll

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

Lew: DUH! But you guys act like it can’t be done at all! Hogwash! It’s been done plenty of times where a 10/5 guy has been traded.

And he never said he’d entertain a trade to “one of the Texas teams”…you guys are inferring that because he has a ranch there, but he’s never said it. He said he would entertain trade offers and he did so without any kind of qualification. Thus, a trade to the Angels is not out of the question! No it’s not likely, but it’s fodder for discussion! If you don’t want to discuss it on the merits (rather than just saying it’ll never happen because he’s 10/5), then just ignore it!

Besides, I’m not even 100% sure that a “10/5” guy can just summarily reject any trade proposal whatsoever…don’t they get to pick like 5 or so teams to which they will not accept a trade…if that is the case, DOB, do you have any idea who is on Chipper’s list of no-trades?

By Lew

July 1, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

Even though Chipper grew up in Florida a true blue Dodger fan, he ain’t leaving Atlanta because not only is he a 10 & 5 guy, he wants to die an Atlanta Brave. He wants his statue somewhere between Bobby Cox’s and Hank Aaron’s.

Those paint fumes are making me dizzy !

By Head Coach

July 1, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

Carroll , 10 and 5 is this: Teh years major league service and five with one team , which means he can reject any trade.

By Head Coach

July 1, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

I was just looking at the team offensive stats and something just jumped out at me. looking left to right Andruw and Francoeur have similar stats. In fact they have an almost identical number of games played , hits and strikeouts. What seperates them is Andruws 30 walks and his refusal to swing at a bad pitch resulting in an OBP of .349 vs Francoeurs putrid .270 OBP…… I am in no way comparing Andruw to Francoeur , except to point out the obvious fact that taking a walk and showing some discipline at the plate can do wonders for a player of Francoeurs ability and talent.

By ernesto

July 1, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

On a different note, 1 down 7 to go to realize Smoltzie’s ultimatum.

By Sir Stealth

July 1, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this

Today’s blog is pretty much an ideal blog in my eyes. This is exactly the kind of stuff that I want to hear. As bad as things seem, the pieces are there to have a complete reversal in the right direction for this team if the right moves are made and players play to their potential.

By ernesto

July 1, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this

So basically the Braves got Hamptom for 5 years for 35 million, some of which is going to be paid by insurance. That doesn’t seem so crazy, at all. Certainly Hampton hasn’t been a 20 game winner (nor a total bust), but a gamble that you could get the Hampton of old for only 7 mil a year, could have been a coup.

By ernesto

July 1, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

Okay, so it’s 48.5 million not 35 million, next time I’ll read the post instead of doing the math and at 10 mil a year it’s a much bigger gamble. Disregard previous post.

By Kentavo

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

Trade Chipper to the Dodgers for Izturis and some bullpen help (Brozoban?). They need a 3B because Mueller is always on DL.

By hk

July 1, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

jimmy,

… bob mentioned the other day he’d be out of pocket over the weekend …

… reflecting on all the conversation back and forth about Skip, Chip, Don, Bob Rathbun, etc …. you guessed it, a spreadsheet … weighted some criteria, Knowledgeable, Delivery, Likeable, etc, then graded out each announcer, here’s how it came out:

Skip-93 … am sure my bias showed on that one, but have been listening to him and his dad for a lot of years … always makes me laugh, old Jack Benny type humor ..

Pete-91 … good solid professional

Joe-90 … likeable guy, knows his stuff

Don-71 … ever since dratted TW temporarily changed to a non homer format a couple of years ago, Don has talked way way too much… he knows alot, but really wears you out … has a bad case of singsong-itus (where you end each sentence going up an octave .. started in golf and spread)

Chip-70 … as much as I love the Caray’s, also talks too much and an even worse case of sing song ..

Bob Rathbun-85 … I have been listening to him for quite a few years, doesn’t bother me at all … solid professional, like Pete ..

Jeff Torburg-92 … very very knowledgeable with alot of original insights, quite an improvement over Tom Paciorek ..

click here for chart

By krath

July 1, 2006 06:08 PM | Link to this

Looking at the Head Coach last post, was a decent comparison with Frenchy and Andruw. Actually, I’m glad he used Andruw as the comparison.

I have to be honest that a couple of years ago, I was hoping the Braves would trade Andruw. He was too inconsistent, hot or cold and cold usually. Had decent numbers but you could bet they were mostly accomplished when the Braves were up by 5 or down by 5. That was his M.O. You did not want him with a bat in his hand with the game on the line.

Last year, it all came together and he actually carried the team for much of the year. I was wrong about Andruw. I never thought he would ever be a clutch hitter and someone you wanted at bat with the game in question. But even with his performance last year and even though he isn’t yet 30, it took Andruw a lot of years to realize offensively where he is ability wise now. Not sure why it took so long considering he had about 8 or 9 years of big league experience last year. It SHOULD NOT have taken that long.

I just don’t want to see Frenchy take as long to get there as it took Andruw. It all clicked for Andruw last year and he’s having another fine year this year so it doesn’t seem it was a fluke. If a guy has the tools in his early 20’s and it takes him until he is 30 or almost 30 to realize how to utilize those tools to the fullest…. then someone or something in the organization isn’t filling the need. Is it the hitting coach? Is it the manager? Is it the overall philosophy of the organization?

Great players may become complete when they are 30 or even past 30…. but great players are generally pretty great shortly after arriving on the scene even in their early 20’s.

I want to see Frenchy as a great one, not just a good one. He has the tools to be great. Would be a shame to accept anything less.

By krath

July 1, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

Pretty cool spreadsheet, HK. Not sure I would have graded the guys out exactly the same as you have, but I think you have captured the essence of what is important to most fans/viewers/listeners.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

lew, if chipper dies a brave, let’s hope he doesn’t die at third base. let’s just say that if the team let performance dictate who will play, barry might be here instead of reitsma. all barry did was pitch three scoreless innings of two-hit ball in his major league debut at yankee stadium. that got him a ticket to richmond in favor of reitsma. when prado won a game with a triple he was sent down the next day. pena comes up and plays great defense and is sent down in favor of orr - they carry the same bat. the other pena comes up and bats over .300 and he is gone for pratt. why should it be any different for uh, chipper? jimmy smith thinks chipper will be playing third wearing support hose and depends. depends under the hose, hopefully. the potato goes in front, chipper.

By krath

July 1, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this

A bit off topic, but here in parts of N.C., they’re shoving the REDS games at us on a regular basis on Fox Sports Net when the Braves game is on TS or TBS. We still get the Braves rather than the REDS when they are on Foxsports net. Watching the Reds and Indians now while waiting for the Braves game to come on.

Is this going on in Ga? SC? other Southeast states?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 1, 2006 06:37 PM | Link to this

good job, hk. what about ron gant? jimmy smith knows he will finish last but still, he is an announcer and must be included. journalist likes listening to pete, joe, and skip. much can be learned from the professor. jimmy smith thinks don and chip need to take occassional breaths. pairing them makes jimmy smith turn down the sound. rathbun and torborg are doing better and torborg seems to know the game very well.

somebody asked this the other day and it has been bothering jimmy smith ever since … “is don baylor available to be somebody’s (braves) hitting coach?” jimmy smith thinks baylor could do the job terry refuses to do. heck, jimmy smith thinks mccann’s daddy should have the job. the undisciplined batting is a great contributor to the dismal season.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Carrol, what I’ve been trying to say the whole time is that while it is possible to trade a 10-5 guy, in Chipper’s case it will be improbable. I happen to agree that Chipper’s salary, whether $13 or $11 million is a disproportionate percentage of the Braves’ total salary. This fact is not in dispute. As far as going to either Texas team it was mentioned earlier in this blog and also several weeks ago that Chipper’s list of trades he MAY approve, included the 2 Texas teams. I was simply using it as an example. If the Braves can negotiate a trade for Chipper (and I almost hope they do so all of his detractors would shut the f**k up), he would still have to approve it. I personally don’t think that there would be much interest in him among all of the teams that could afford to pick up his salary. Everyone keeps complaining about his drop off in power numbers. I also do not dispute this. However, if you follow this line of thinking, it is that much less reason that the Braves could even negotiate a trade for him. So, whether or not it might be good for the team’s salary structure or that he isn’t worth whatever they are paying him compared to his production, it is unlikely he will be changing teams in the foreseeable future. Oh, I did not post the blog about Chipper growing up a true blue fan in Florida. I’m a victim of identity theft. I suppose that may be a mark of distiction on this site. If you would look at an earlier post I made, you can see a way (one more probable than trading Chipper) that would save in the vicinity of $18-21 million next year. You have to admit that a lot of proposed moves on this blog range from unlikely to downright impossible. This is the point I’m trying to make.

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

Head coach: I know what “10/5” means, but I thought it meant that that the player could select a list of 5 or 6 teams to which he would not be traded. But I just read on ESPN that he has to consent to any trade. But I think, based on Chipper’s past comments, that it could still happen (that he might approve a trade). But unfortunately, as jimmy pointed out, I think Bobby is too stubborn and loyal (and borderline stupid) to get rid of him.

Jimmy is 100% right. Bryan Pena should be here instead of Pratt, Tony Pena should be here instead of Orr, Prado should be here instead of….somebody, and above all, Reeksma should never don a Braves unie EVER again…especially if it is at the expense of a guy who just threw so well the other day. It just defies logic and common sense.

By Glass Half Full

July 1, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

That’s it! I’m officially on the “trade Hudson” bandwagon. He’s not helping us win games this year, but teams like the Yankees will give up some guys for him.

By parks

July 1, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

worst inning ever

By Glass Half Full

July 1, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Where’s Cormier? I think we’d be better off.

By Glass Half Full

July 1, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this

Start working the phones, JS. If you hold onto Hudson until this time next year you’ll get nothing….oh, thank the Maker, here comes Bobby.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

The question on my mind is when is Hudson going to tell BC that he hasn’t had any feeling in his arm since May.

By matt

July 1, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

i think a loss to ortiz will be the lowpoint of the season. this guy hasn’t pitched since june 11, hasn’t won a ballgame since i’ve gotten laid (tells you a lot about my life), and he’s throwing ball fours like they’re out pitches.

too bad chipper couldn’t have made that play last inning. his defense has been pretty awful this entire season, let’s see if he can do something at the plate now.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 1, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

lew, bobby’s lost that lovin’ feeling, too. why does the infield look so sluggish? are they giving up on hudson? seeing chipper in that all-star promo makes jimmy smith wonder what is going on? soon, the seeds, the gum, the tobacco, and the salsa will be dripping off those new chin whiskers chipper is sporting. reminds jimmy smith of the old journalist in a buffet line.

By matt

July 1, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

GEEZ ANDRUW!!!!! RUN LIKE IT’S A F—IN’ FLYBALL!!!! C’MON!!!

By Del

July 1, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this

Another game where the Braves appear to playing in their sleep. Stupid throws from our outfielders, easy out at third - instead makes wide throw to second, pitcher goes two for two. Yikes !! This is the classic season to film a movie on how not to play major league baseball. I watch these games and wonder what kind of new way they will find to lose this one. An absolutely jinxed season. A released pitcher (Ortiz) throwing 25% strikes is leading 6-1. Go figure.

By Lew

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

It defies all logic and imagination, Journalist Jimmy Smith. Does LeTwan’s mama make a pie to cure lethargy? If so, please have her send the recipe to the Braves. I, for one have no idea what is going on. Carroll, I have come to the conclusion that you were right all along. Waive the 10-5 rule and trade the whole damn bunch of them for ARod.

By JasonInMaine

July 1, 2006 08:40 PM | Link to this

For the love of all that is sacred, trad Hudson NOW. Even if we do not get anything in return, get rid of his damn salary.

By krath

July 1, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

Just saw where the Mets put an 8 spot up on Randy Johnson today. After the Mark Fine break came back to the booth, Sutton says, “I don’t understand, Johnson threw the daylights out of it against the Braves!”

Did he ever stop to think that the difference is that Johnson was pitching against the Braves?

I picked a stretch in June of 10 games where the Braves were opposed by starting pitchers with ERA’s of between 4.50 and 8.80. In the losses to these pitchers… know what the Braves averaged scoring against these pitchers?? 1.7 runs a game! If they just scored close to the average runs against these pitchers, they might only be 8 or 10 out.

Before I post….just noticed the midget at second just looked like he was swinging at a Pinyata (spelling)and popped it straignt up! Last night he would have struck out on 3 pitches instead of driving in the winning runs if Williams and the catcher hadn’t gone brain dead and threw him a hanging slider instead of the big sink that Giles had frailed at twice and missed by a foot each time.

By Todd A

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

Edgar gets doubled off on a line drive.Hudson fails to beat out Patterson to first on a grounder to La Roche.Chipper makes a lackadasical throw to second base on a grounder.Hudson makes Russ Ortiz look like Roger Clemens.

Just another day in the life of the last place 2006 Atlanta Braves.Where’s the wrecking ball?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 1, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

does betemit have the quickest bat on this team? jimmy smith thinks the answer is yes.

By Beachcomber

July 1, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

Hey nice job by our third base coach in the bottom of the 4th. We have Ortiz on the ropes Chipper hits a one hop single to the leftfielder and he sends Thorman with the speed of a glacier home where he’s out by a mere six feet. Just another example of why we were 6 or 7 for June - complete lack of baseball fundamentals.

By krath

July 1, 2006 09:04 PM | Link to this

I’m now convinced, Frenchy decides if he’s going to swing or not when the pitcher is still in his windup. He just swung at a pitch that almost hit him in the jaw!

By journalist jimmy smith

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

how many games did chipper miss? he needs only one more error to lead major league third basemen - tied with encarnacion who doesn’t wear a glove. francoeur wasted a throw earlier and allowed another runner to move up a base. the team has no discipline. journalist is not pickin’ on bobby - as you can see he’s doing his own pickin’ tonight. ugh!

By matt

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

way to go, thorman, looking like a real brave on that last at-bat. you too, laroche, way to swing at some crappy pitch thrown where you have no business picking the bat up off your shoulder. and wow, frenchy, that was some hitting where you swung at the first pitch, and then the next…boy, you’re really getting a hold of that thing called “patience.”

By ronald

July 1, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

How many times do I have to say it? Fredi Gonzalez must go. Tonight with a rally going in the fourth inning what does he do? He sends Thorman who is thrown out from me to you. He had no chance of scoring. Ortiz was on the ropes. So what does Gonzalez do? He kills the rally. Thorman had no chance of scoring. I get sick of hearing the announcers cover for him by saying “he forced them to make a perfect throw.” These are major leaguers we’re up against. It would not have taken a perfect throw to nail Thorman. They could have roll it up there and got him. All he did was kill a rally.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

commentary team chin hair. that’s right, team chin hair. apparently this braves team feels that a patch of scraggly hair on the chin will promote team unity and propel the braves to a winning streak. well, it ain’t working. this team has did everything but the right things to turn this season around. when there was no starting pitching, everything else seemed to work. when there was good pitching, there was no pen. when there was hitting, there was no defense. when there was defense, there was no hitting. now, there is not much of anything. the pen may be the highlight tonight which means the braves are in trouble. maybe the chin hair will cut-in next inning and the braves will mount a comeback. jimmy smith asks again, why is the infield so sluggish? bobby may be the best in the business but he allows this team to not run hard to the base, to miss the cutoff, and to swing at pitches bounced to the plate. the team is selfish. at one time the braves had the very best pitching in baseball. no more. they can no longer wait for the 3-run homer. better learn to play some good fundamental baseball.

By matt

July 1, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this

i’ll go ahead and make a prediction of tonight’s game (keep in mind, it’s 7-3 with two out in the middle of the 6th right now)…braves come back to within one run, cox brings in reitsma to give him a chance at holding the o’s where they are, and he gives up 3 runs on a walk and 4 hits. braves lose 11-7.

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this

Put this damned collection of losers and zombies out of their misery already……trade EVERYONE not named McCann.

Lew: I don’t know if you’re being sarcastic or not, but either way…agreed. But I wouldn’t want A-Fraud. I think we’re the only team against whom he has ever gotten a clutch hit.

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

Jimmy: I LOVED the “had did” reference. I’m not one to get down on peeps for grammar or spelling, etc, and I know that DOB is very busy and all, but that was pretty pitiful the other day. Maybe Chipper, Andruw and LaRoche’s sluggishness/lethargy/laziness/apathy has worn off on our good friend and the esteemed journalist.

By Beachcomber

July 1, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

My Gawd. Reitsma got out of an inning without a major disaster - of course it took one of Andrew’s great catches to save him. Speaking of which - the boys on TBS made a good point about Andrew - really about Jim Edmunds - how Edmunds makes every play look tough. He’s got to be the most over-rated outfielder in the last quarter century of the game!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 1, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith is starting to feel sorry for chris reitsma after listening to chip caray … after all reitsma is a human being and he cares about winning. then, why did he not tell anyone he had no feeling in his fingers? why did he hurt the team so? chipper was quick to report numbness in his thumb (though many on this blog have reported uh, cranial numbness for months). look at this! journalist picks on chipper and he outsmarts the pitcher as he runs down the line. can young mccann teach his craft? he could give a clinic on hitting.

By Calvin

July 1, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

Tough break for Reitsma. Looks like Tommy John surgery is in his future.

By jane

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

Have the game on “Mute” for obvious reasons and havent really been paying much attention. Just looked up and dear God, is that Reitsma I am seeing, or please tell me Im hallucinating!

By fan3585

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

can braves have courage to fire chipper, hudson, reitsma thompson to start with? I doubt it. keep praising those guys and keep loosing and keep writing in those blogs with all the heartburns you can take.

By Lew

July 1, 2006 10:05 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I was being sarcastic, but not at your expense. I think I’ve about had it with boneheaded play and total lack of fundamentals. Maybe not ARod, but maybe we could get some bats, balls and Kerry Ligtenberg and Tim Spooneybarger for Hudson. Maybe.

By Lew

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

Well, at least it looks like Reitsma will go back on the DL for a long time.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

more numbness for reitsma. sad. will the braves bring back barry? or will they buy obermueller from the canaries? buffaloes? carp? who is he with now?

“p” player pete orr is now on base. do not blink. will giles hit a windmill to the seats?

By Todd A

July 1, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

Lew,I enjoy reading your posts,but do you honestly believe the Braves will one day erect a statue of Chipper?Or were you just being facetious?He’s had a good career in Atl,but,c’mon……

By Calvin

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

Speaking of Spooneybarger, how well is he doing for the Marlins? I know he had Tommy John surgery a couple of years ago. I wonder if Mr. O’Brien knows.

By Josh

July 1, 2006 11:20 PM | Link to this

well it looks like chipper is starting to shut up some of these bandwaggon fans. im happy that these people are eating their words. and yea chipper has a house thats 26,000 square ft. maybe u all are just jealous of stuff like that. if ur gonna criticize the braves, then go pull for the damn yankees or the we’ve only accomplished one thing in our history the red sox the hell with u northern bastards.

By Matt

July 1, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Betemit with the quickest bat on the team? No, remember AJ’s swings.

By Carroll

July 1, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Josh: a meaningless ninth inning homer, down by 4 with nobody on base will not shut anyone up. He needs to go. If you are satisfied with lazy underperformance, why don’t you go watch the Hawks.

By Matt

July 1, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this

Chipper needs one more error to tie for the lead? Remember against the Yanks, he made one but they gave the hitter a hit and he even menioned it. So to me, he is tied.

By Josh

July 1, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

carroll: do u really know what type of career chipper has had, hes one of the best 3rd baseman of all time. im sure u really dont know much about the braves at all. obviously not anything about chipper.

By Johhny Taco

July 1, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones & Tim Hudson, a modern-day “Butch & Sundance” for the amount of money they are stealing from the Braves, ought to be packaged in some deal to the Yankees, for whatever we can get !

Chipper Jones comes through again in the clutch tonight - a solo homer in the ninth inning, when the game has already been decided. Was that another error in the field, Mr. “I Live For This” ?

I hope JS cancels the order on that Chipper Jones statue !

By Matt

July 1, 2006 11:48 PM | Link to this

Josh, thanks for stating a fact. CJones, is and will be known as one of the greatest Braves of all time. Yes I said it. What 9 seasons straight w/ 20hrs and 8 seasons of 100 rbi. A career 300 hitter who has switched positions from SS to 3rd to LF and back to 3rd. Give me a break. You people are sad. He’s only hitting a 294, soon to be past Renti, who isn’t hitting. I can’t believe you so called Braves fans are calling for him to be traded. Same with Smoltz. Its ridiculous. I don’t care if you want Huddy traded, he isn’t a true Brave anyway (not farm).

By RobertH

July 1, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

Some people who continually criticize Chipper or LaRoche or Francoeur or Giles seem to be forgetting one simple thing…we allegedly have a hitting coach. FIRE PENDLETON NOW!

And here’s the quick and simple way to fix Francoeur: Send his sorry butt to Richmond and tell him he can’t come back until he walks ten times. Then it’s up to him to decide if he comes back in two weeks or two months. He’s never going to be anything more than a very mediocre hitter if he doesn’t learn some discipline at the plate. If we had a dollar for every time Francoeur struck out on a one-hopper to the catcher, we’d all be rich.

Or…here’s another thought. Either fire Pendleton or trade Francoeur. If Francoeur is fixable, then Pendleton should be able to do it, and he should be fired if he can’t. And he’s had almost a year to do it. We should have seen improvement by now. On the other hand, if Francoeur isn’t fixable, then we need to dump him. Now obviously he’s fixable. So…

Mazzone leaving Atlanta is a separate issue from us being stuck with McDowell. Eveyrone at one point or another leaves and has to be replaced. But I’m still waiting for someone to show me exactly what in McDowell’s resume indicated that he was ready for a job of this magnitude. He has yet to prove that he can be successful at any level. It’s not just that he’s never been a MLB pitching coach. His team ERA at Las Vegas last year, for example, was over 6.00. His starters had ERAs over 7.00 and 8.00. And I am really getting sick and tired of every Braves announcer spouting the corporate line in support of McDowell. He is absolutely pathetic.

In addition, like Ron, I’m sick and tired to seeing Fredy Gonzalez get runners thrown out at the plate from here to Valdosta. He absolutely killed a big rally tonight. Thorman was out so far that the LF could have rolled the ball home and had him out. He could have thrown it to the frigging backstop and the catcher would have had time to go get the ball and tag out Thorman. Heck…the LF didn’t even have to throw it…he could have just run the ball in and outrun Thorman to the plate. And again, Don Sutton and Chip Caray spout the corporate line and support Gonzalez by saying it took a perfect throw to get him. No, it didn’t. My grandmother could have thrown him out. We had Ortiz on the ropes, the bases would have been loaded for Andrew, and then McCann, we’re down by three, and Gonzalez sends him. What a fool. Anyone with any sense knows that you don’t take the bats out of the hands of Jones and McCann. You don’t frigging gamble when you’re down by three runs. This happens way too often. It’s just that McDowell and Pendleton have been so pathetic that Gonzalez doesn’t get as much attention as he should, but he has no business in a Braves uniform, either. I’ve had it. If McDowell, Pendleton, or Gonzalez are back in the spring, then whoever decides to bring them back needs to be fired…Cox’s and Schuerholz’s 14 titles not withstanding.

And fire Sutton and Chip while we’re at it. Steve Stone’s available…at least we know he’ll tell it like it is instead of kissing management’s sphincter.

By Josh

July 1, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

Thanks Matt you must be a true braves fan like me. hard to find some of those now

By littlechopof horrors

July 1, 2006 11:54 PM | Link to this

Well, Matt, Smoltz is a product of the Detroit Tigers’ organization, so by your rationale, he can go as well.

Join me, Braves fans, in my movement to get a statue of Rowland Office put up outside The Ted!

By Kentavo

July 2, 2006 12:04 AM | Link to this

I think Hudson lollygagged to first on the play that Patterson beat out. It was an uh-oh moment that you knew was going to come back to bite ‘em in the butt. It’s upsetting that the Braves have adopted the Fred McGriff, too cool to hustle approach to baseball. Andruw plays good defense, but does not hustle down the basepaths.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

Easy on McDowell, I never remember Mazzone having a great bullpen until Smoltz. And personally, I don’t think somebody has to be proven somewhere to be a pitching coach. Mazzone came out of the minors. Cox was horrible until he went to Toronto.
Also, Frenchy is only about 23 years old, if that. Have faith. Our team hitting isn’t really that bad except for the strike outs. 13 hits tonight and only 4 runs. We aren’t moving runners like we should. And 4 runs should get you a win or close to a win. Another thing, since everybody is always bashing the bullpen. Congrats to the bullpen. Only 1 run in over 4 innings (I think) tonight. Take away the last Yanks game and they have done VERY good the last week. Though I wish Barry would’ve stayed, but w/ Reitsma looking hurt again, maybe they will bring him back. Remember, we still have that Stockton kid, Devin and Bower. When is he coming back?

By RobertH

July 2, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this

And will someone please tell me why we needed to spend huge bucks and lock up Hudson long term? Many observers though he was already losing it the second half of his last year with Oakland. Okay…so you make a deal and hope it works out. But why on earth sign him to an expensive, long term contract? He’s pathetic. And he’s done. Trade him now to some contender for a bag of used baseballs, and we’ll come out ahead.

By Johhny Taco

July 2, 2006 12:10 AM | Link to this

Matt & Josh are either lovers, or apologists for lame baseball.

Matt, using your logic, Smoltzie is not a real Brave either because he came from the Detroit farm system. Duh !

If true Braves’ legends like Hank Aaron, Eddie Mathews & Dale Murphy (ever hear of them?) can be traded, surely the overpaid primadonna on thirdbase can be traded as well. The money he and Tim Hudson are stealing from the Braves could surely be used to upgrade the bullpen and leftfield.

Get off the Kool Aid & open your eyes !

Braves fan since 1967.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:11 AM | Link to this

Smoltz played some farm ball with us. Leo was his coach. S orry about my post being confusing, I meant it to mean that players traded to the Braves (Hampton, Huddy, Thomson, Sosa, Jordan, Pratt, Diaz, Renti, and others in the pen weren’t true Braves.

By LittleChopofHorrors

July 2, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this

Josh, Chipper’s not even the greatest BRAVES third baseman of all time. Eddie Mathews is, easily.

By Josh

July 2, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this

well braves fan since 1967 u seem to think u know a lot about the braves but u kno i think ur full of s**

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this

Kool Aid- good one. From what I hear, DMurphy wanted to be traded. And yes I have heard of those legends. Have you ever heard of CJones, a better average than all of them and I think has more records (Braves records) total than all or at least 2 of them (not counting homeruns). Open your eyes you bandwagoneer. People get old, power numbers drop, but his average is still there. I am just making a point about how you people turn on our players. This isn’t Boston or NY. If you want to boo our players, start cheering for them.

By Josh

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

well said man, this is the city of Atlanta not new york or boston so why don’t u people appreciate what the braves have done and stop b***.

By Head Coach

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

Well , 81 games in the can and half the season is history. Does 75 or 80 wins seem to be a reasonable goal ? A .500 season seems like a real challenge at the moment. 18 base runners and 4 cross the plate , I guess the three run homer didnt show up tonight. Russ Ortiz started and we lost by three runs in a game in which the Orioles blew two more scoring opportunites with baserunning gaffs. They scored 4 runs with two out in the second inning sparked by a base hit from the pitcher ? UNBELIEVABLE…….UN FREAKING BELIEVABLE.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:24 AM | Link to this

Nice Josh. Hey littlechopofhorrors, why isn’t he the greatest Brave 3rd basemen. Oh thats right, he has switched position 3 times for the BRAVES. I never seen Matthews play, but I know that the Braves have won 14 straight, CJones has been there for 10 of them. The common demoninator is?????? How many did Matthews win, or Aaron. No I’m not bashing these Braves greats. I am bashing you, so-called Braves fan.

By Josh

July 2, 2006 12:25 AM | Link to this

littlechopofhorrors: don’t compare them yet chipper’s career isnt over quite yet

By metsFan

July 2, 2006 12:28 AM | Link to this

the braves suck cant wait to wope yalls a* in july you guyss succkkkkkkkkkkkk haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa ahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa im so happy

piece out lossers

By Josh

July 2, 2006 12:28 AM | Link to this

nice Matt, these people aren’t worth our time because the really don’t kno anything about the braves.

By Johnny Taco

July 2, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this

To the Chipper Jones’ APOLOGISTS on this BLOG:

Hitting .294 is fine but look at his HR’s (few & meaningless), and RBI production !

If .294 with no offensive output is acceptable, lets bring back Ken Oberkfell ! At least he had a better glove than Chipper, and he made a fraction of the money.

In baseball, its what have you done for me lately. Last few years I see a sharp decline in production. The money spent on Chipper Jones is not having any returns.

Matt, Greg Maddux came from the Cubs. He’s not a true Brave either. Duh !

Josh, call yo mama. Its time for a diaper change and a drink of Kool Aid !

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:33 AM | Link to this

metsFan- keep it up, your season is about to get rough. I will seriously be suprised if the Mets are in 1st at the end of the season. Good luck, I hope the Mets go 20-61 the rest of the year. Don’t forget, July is the month of the Braves.

By LittleChopofHorrors

July 2, 2006 12:33 AM | Link to this

Josh, you are beyond stupid and incredibly short-sighted. Put Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz in the Milwaukee Braves rotation of the 50s with hitters like Aaron, Mathews and Adcock and I’ll guarantee you they bring home 5, 6, even 7 world titles. How many titles have Chipper and his ragtag bunch of underachievers won? One stinking title. Thank God for the 1995 Cleveland Indians!

That Milwaukee squad had two great pitchers — Warren Spahn and Johnny Sain — but never the three or four great starters the Braves have been running out there for 14 years. That’s why Atlanta’s had their unprecedented run of division titles. And as I’ve said already, Aaron, Mathews and Co. wouldn’t have choked away the multitude of world titles the Braves have since 1991. Not if they’d had the Braves recent pitching.

But why am I wasting my time with a Chipper lover?

By Todd A

July 2, 2006 12:38 AM | Link to this

Agree 100% on Francoeur.Except I wouldn’t send him to Richmond,I would pull a Ron Gant on him and send him all the way back to A ball.Let his progress dictate how fast he gets back to the show.Bet you would see a new player once he made it back.If Bobby and Pendleton aren’t going to make any effort to fix the problem,Schuerholz should intervene and send him down.It would be doing both Frenchy and the organization a favor.The season is lost anyway imo.

By LittleChopofHorrors

July 2, 2006 12:38 AM | Link to this

Josh —

I apologize. It’s Matt who’s incridbly stupid and short-sighted.

Of course, you could be just as bad. But I should give you the benefit of the doubt for now.

By metsFan

July 2, 2006 12:38 AM | Link to this

you braves fans are stupid you guys have no chance at making the playoffs there is no way your catching the mets or the reds so just f*** off and face the facts that yall have the 3rd worst team in the NL

sincerely, mets #1 Fan

By Josh

July 2, 2006 12:38 AM | Link to this

yea well maybe u think im stupid but im sure i kno more about the braves organization than u and im 17 years old. i have always been a braves fan and always will be. stop b***

By RobertH

July 2, 2006 12:41 AM | Link to this

Matt, you haven’t been a Braves fan long, have you? No great bullpen until Smoltz? Are you just too young to remember Stanton, Pena, McMichael, Wohlers, Ligtenberg, etc, etc? 1991…Berenguer, Stanton, and Mercker all with ERAs under 3.00. Pena under 2.00. 41 saves between the four of them. McMichael…2.06 with 19 saves in 1993. In 1995, McMichael, Clontz, and Wohlers were a combined 22-6 with ERAs of 2.79, 3.65, and 2.09. 1996…McMichael, Borbon, Wade, and Wohlers all were terrific. Add Cather and Embree in ‘97…they had a terrific pen again. Ligtenberg, Rocker, Seanez all were added in ‘98, and again, it was a terrific pen. In 1999 we had Rocker, Remlinger, McGlinchy, Seanez and Springer as our core relievers, and they were outstanding. ERAs: 2.49, 2.87, 2.32, 3.35, 3.42. Combined record of 29-11. In 2001, the 8 relievers with the most appearances all had ERAs under 3.50. It didn’t matter who we had out there…Mazzone was succesful.

So, what’s this nonsense about no great bullpen until Smoltz?

And no, you shouldn’t need to be a proven success to get hired to coach a last place team, as Mazzone was, way back in the day. But to be hired to coach a perennial champion, then yeah, you better darn well have a proven track record of success. You want to hire McDowell and give him on the job training? Send ghis butt to KC or Tampa. Not here.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:43 AM | Link to this

Who said anything about Greg Maddux? Your struggling for something here JohnnyTaco. Cjones rbi production is down b/c nobody in front of him is getting on base. Trash AJones for only hitting 200 with RISP. CJones is on pace for 20 hrs and 80 rbi’s. Thats not to bad. Yes, we had great pitchers, but not enough bats. CJones is 4th on this team in hrs and rbis and tied for 2nd in runs, and he is starting to get hot. So at the end of July when he is crushing the ball and hitting great, you will be right back on his bankwagon. By the way, a question for you, 2 great pitchers in a rotation, how many titles did they win?

By LittleChopofHorrors

July 2, 2006 12:44 AM | Link to this

Josh—

Thanks for removing all doubt. Apology retracted.

And I misstyped: Lew Burdette was the other great Milwaukee pitcher wirh Spahn. Johnny Sain dates back to the Boston Braves.

By Josh

July 2, 2006 12:48 AM | Link to this

littlechopofhorrors: u really think u kno ur s** don’t ya, i would put u to shame when talking about the braves franchise

By metsFan

July 2, 2006 12:50 AM | Link to this

Matt your an idiot the Mets have the best team era in the NL and the best offense. There is no way we will go 20-61 your stupid if you think that. Stop dreaming

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:52 AM | Link to this

OK Robert, your point is taken. My point, though not clear was that we never have had a longterm (more than a year or two) bullpen. Its always by commitee. Good or bad. This year is bad. With our organization, there is no reason we shouldn’t have a Rivera, Lidge, Gagne, etc. You rattled off like 400 former Brave players that stayed for only a couple of years. But your right, Mazzone got the best out of them, I was wrong, my bad. But we did have some bad years in between.
I love it that I am stupid and short sighted for disagreeing with a person. Isn’t that hypocritical.

By Josh

July 2, 2006 12:54 AM | Link to this

well im done with this crap tonight, all u fairweather that always have something to b*** and moan about just go buy a yankees or red sox hat because the braves dont need fans like u.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 12:59 AM | Link to this

Your season is getting harder in the second half. Just look at the schedule metsFan. We’ll see. If Pedro or Glavine gets hurt, your team is SCREWED. Why am I an idiot, your the Mets fan. You post on this blog saying the Braves suck and then start crying like a b* when I notify you of your teams certain demise. History is a b*. Now go blog where people actually want to listen to you. Oh wait, there is no real Mets fans. All Mets fans are fans that couldn’t get tickets to see the Yankees, so they defaulted to the Mets.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 01:01 AM | Link to this

I love p** people off. Its what I live for. And the Braves.

By Johnny Taco

July 2, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this

Matt,

Renteria is hitting .300. He must be on base occasionnally when Chipper is up. What difference does it make if there are runners on base, he’s not going to deliver anyway.

20 HRs & 80 RBI is UNACCEPTABLE for a guy stealing 13 million (per ESPN) from the Braves this season.

RobertH - Excellent post on the Braves bullpen history since 1991 ! The bullpen has stunk since that year we had Hammond & Reed.

To the Mets Fan: You have nothing to fear from the Braves & their impotent offense and lethargic bullpen. You better keep your eyes on the Marlins ! They have a $15 million payroll and hungry players, while the Braves $80 million roster is full of overpaid hasbeens and wannabe sluggers.

By Josh

July 2, 2006 01:04 AM | Link to this

Matt thanks for being a true braves fan, i wish their were more in this world.

By Josh

July 2, 2006 01:06 AM | Link to this

shove a taco up ur a* johnny taco

By RobertH

July 2, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this

Matt, my point is simple. McDowell never did anything to prove he deserves the job. He, Pendleton, and Gonzalez are all pathetic and should be replaced.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this

Yes Robert had a very good post. JohnnyTaco, your really not a Braves fan are you? CJones can’t score Renti every time, remeber AJones is behind him also, then Frenchy or McCann. CJones also missed 2 weeks in the beginning of the year when Renti was getting on every time. He isn’t getting on so often anymore. His average dropped 40 points in June and CJones stayed about the same. I have already stated that his power is down, he is 34 years old, it happens.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 01:17 AM | Link to this

RobertH, I understand your and respect your opinion. I agree with you about TPendelton, but unfortunately, I don’t with McDowell. Gonzalez, I seriously don’t recall ever seeing him make a call that stupid before. Yes I have seen him get runners thrown out, but never in a rally (that I recall). I don’t think McDowell has the cast in the bullpen. What I see is our bullpen keep getting assigned and called up back and forth to the minor leagues. Besides Reitsma and Sosa, I can’t think of any of them who haven’t been in the minors at some point this year(doesn’t mean there isn’t). And yes, Huddy is getting rocked right now, but he was lights out in the beginning of the year and everybody was kissing his butt.

By Johnny Taco

July 2, 2006 01:42 AM | Link to this

Matt,

34 is not old in baseball. The Hall of Fame is loaded with players that produced well into their late 30s, & beyond. Henry Aaron hit 40 homers at age 39, in the pre-steroid era. If this is what we can expect from Chipper the next few years, maybe its time to start entertaining offers, and get what we can. Unfortunately, his declining numbers, sorry defense & salary are unlikely to stir any interest from a GM with an active brain cell.

By Johnny Taco

July 2, 2006 01:43 AM | Link to this

Matt,

34 is not old in baseball. The Hall of Fame is loaded with players that produced well into their late 30s, & beyond. Henry Aaron hit 40 homers at age 39, in the pre-steroid era. If this is what we can expect from Chipper the next few years, maybe its time to start entertaining offers, and get what we can. Unfortunately, his declining numbers, sorry defense & salary are unlikely to stir any interest from a GM with an active brain cell.

By Todd A

July 2, 2006 02:13 AM | Link to this

I think it’s been said before on here,but I think it bears repeating;Chipper is just out to collect his check.When I saw footage of this guy laughing and cutting up in the dugout in the 9th inning of game 4 of the 1999 World Series,with the Braves 3 outs away from being swept in embarrassing fashion by the Yankees,I knew then,that not only was this guy not a team leader,but losing didn’t hurt him to the core.When the Braves entrust you with a rich contract,and basically tell you “you’re our guy”,that type of attitude has to be unacceptable.It’s contagious.It festers.If it isn’t addressed,you get,well…..the last 7 seasons of underachievement in Atlanta.

Can you imagine what Steinbrenner would have said or done if Chipper were his property,and the Yankees were the ones that were being swept in the World Series?George would have been so enraged that he would have sent him packing that winter.I think the Braves should have too,personally.

And yes,I realize 1999 was the year Chipper won the MVP with his sept destruction of the Mets.In 1999,Chipper was at his very best ….and worst imo.

By TIM

July 2, 2006 07:09 AM | Link to this

AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO BELIEVES THIS WHY HAS BOBBY NOT GIVEN A FIRSTBASEMENS MIT TO CHIPPER ? IT WOULD BE A NATURAL PROGRESSION FOR HIM WE COULD THEN PUT BETIMIT AT 3RD SELL LAROCHE FOR A COKE AND HOTDOG FROM THE CONCOURSE IF YOU THINK WE CAN GET THAT MUCH FOR HIM. DROP GILES TO 7 OR 8 IN THE ORDER AND PUT BETIMIT AT LEADOFF. PUT DIAZ AS YOUR EVERYDAY LEFT FIELDER AND LETS SEE WHAT HE CAN DO STOP PLAYING MUSICAL CHAIRS IF I GUY CAN HIT HE CAN HIT LEFTIES RIGHTIES MAKES NO DIFFERENCE. NOW WITH REGARDS TO THE PITCHING STAFF TRADE HUDSON,THOMPSON,SOSA AND REEKSMA FOR WHATEVER YOU CAN GET. BRING IN SOME KIDS OFF THE FARM LET THEM TAKE THEIR LUMPS AND LEARN, I BELIEVE MCDOWELL CAN WORK BETTER WITH THE KIDS THAN LEO COULD. ONE LAST THING EITHER WE HAVE HITTERS WHO REFUSE TO LISTEN OR TP IS THE WORST HITTING COACH OF ALL TIME. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT SORELY NEEDS TO ADDRESSED NOW.

By KneeJerk

July 2, 2006 07:11 AM | Link to this

Beachcomber, I’ve been saying the same thing about Edmonds for a couple of years. With no runners on base, Edmonds makes a diving catch, and it takes him forever to get up (acts like he’d dying). With runners on, he springs back to his feet. If he even scrubs the outfield wall, he goes down like he got shot. He definitely takes acting classes. He is the most overrated defensive player of our time.

By Kent

July 2, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

It’s Simple…. It’s a virus. Chris Reitsma passed it to John Thompson. Thompson passed it to Tim Hudson…

Quarantine Huddy before it’s too late!!!!

By Hal

July 2, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Littlechopofhorrors

actually johhny Sain never pitched for the Milwaukee braves he did however pitch for the BOSTON braves Milwaukees rotation in the glory years of 1957 and 58 had Warren Spahn Lew Burddette, Bob Buhl, Bob Rush and Juan Pizzaro

By Lew

July 2, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

Grow up you bunch of f**king children. What in the world makes you think Chipper will be better defensively at first? His performance at third? Reality check time you bunch of preschool, nasty idiots. Mets Fan, get a life and go watch your team choke.

By Lew

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

And what in the world makes you think Betemit will be the answer at third? He’s batting less than Chipper average wise and did his (should have been) three error game the other day make him a gold glove candidate? I swear, it’s the same lame ideas for the lineup and trades every damn day. Chipper won’t be at first, they’re not going to trade him and he will never be the vocal leader you want him to be. No matter how vitriolic your posts get.

By Kent

July 2, 2006 10:50 AM | Link to this

Lew, On The Wilson Betemit thing… There are a lot of guys who don’t hit as well as utility-men as they do when you start penciling them into the linup every day. Hitting is about timing and rhythm. That’s why coming off the bench is considered such a challenge in baseball. Scouts, not only in the Braves organization but throughout baseball, believe that Betemit has a real chance to be an impact player if he can find an everyday place in the lineup.

I’m not speaking to the “Chipper to first” thing. I’m simply saying that finding Betemit a place in the lineup could be a very positive thing for Atlanta.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

eddie mathews (hof), bob horner (roy), terry pendleton (mvp), clete boyer, darrell evans, ken oberkfell, vinny castilla, ron gant, jim presley, barry bonnell, jerry royster, and probably some more played third base in atlanta. chipper’s in the top five.

By Kent

July 2, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy, you go back a ways (like me). I haven’t heard the names, Ken Oberkfell or Jerry Royster in a while. :o)

By MBATL

July 2, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

Jimmy, I think your current discontent with CJ is clouding your journalistic impartiality, or at least your historical perspective.

Chipper is clearly the best 3B in ATLANTA Braves history. Matthews is a HOF’er, but you could make a good case that CJ is a better hitter (less HR, but better slugging, obp, avg) and an equal 3B, and Matthews played just 1 season here. Horner put up some HR numbers, but never drove in 100 runs, was a poor fielder. Pendleton had 1 great year, then declined every year we had him.

By Blaster

July 2, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

What a show! Only at Turner Field can Russ Ortiz look like Cy Young and Huddy-the-Duddy look like Dan Kolb. And only at Turner Field can apologists like Don Sutton make excuses for Hudson’s pitches “straying” over the plate. Well, damn duh! Reckon that’s the reason Hudson can’t win anymore? Who would have thunk it?

By MBATL

July 2, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this

Actually, Bob Horner is probably a good comparison to Jeff Franceour. When Horner came up at 21 yrs old, he could ‘naturally’ hit the ball. 23 HR in first half a season, 33 in first full season. But walked just 22 times in his first full season, 27 times in his 2nd. It took about 4 years before he was walking 50-60 times a year - an okay number for a power hitter.

Horner was probably a better “pure hitter” than Frenchy is, didn’t swing and miss a lot and he never struck out a whole lot. But it did take him a few years to learn to take a walk.

By Jim

July 2, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this

Random thoughts:

Chipper is in decline and is not worth 13 million, but he is probably untradeable and is not the main problem. The main problem is that two years ago JS made a trade for Hudson to be the cornerstone of the pitching rotation for the next 5 years. That trade has not worked out. More than the bullpen, more than the hitting, the lack of quality starts from the “stopper” has precipitated this decline. This is a bigger problem than the bullpen because it is much harder (and more expensive) to find a number 1 starter than for arms in the pen, and without fixing this problem finding arms for the pen becomes irrelevant. Like I said in a previous post, Hudson does not miss bats. He has to nibble and issue walks or get hit when the ball is put into play. (The AB against Mora was classic Hudson — he made 3 or 4 “quality pitches” with a 2 strike count but each one was fouled off until finally a little dribbler kept the inning going.)

Do the Braves have a take sign? If so, why didn’t FG give it to Frenchy last night in the 2nd inning with the count 2-0 and Ortiz struggling? If Frenchy won’t discipline himself, why don’t the coaches impose some discipline?

One way to measure the worth of Roger MacDowell will be to see next year if Chuck James develops a better breaking ball. He needs another pitch to put away lefthanded hitters and if he ever develops a solid curve to go along with his makeup and his fastball and change He could develop into the pitcher we thought we were getting in Hudson.

By Jimbo

July 2, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

I knew it…Thorman finally gets a couple hits and he is back on the bench. The surest way to earn a seat on the pine is show BC you might be getting hot. He did it with Diaz and he did it with Betemit.

By Beachcomber

July 2, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

ESPN’s Sports Center was a hoot this morning with fired Mets GM Steve Phillips picking Barrett from the Cubs over McCann for the All Star team - he’s only hitting about 50 points below Brian. Is this the baseball all-star team or the boxing all star team? Phillip’s excellent judgement of talent continues.

By knowitall

July 2, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

Breaking News! Breaking News! The Braves just went an entire inning without striking out.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

journalist’s integrity is intact. clete boyer was on the down-side of his career when he played here but he was on par with brooks robinson as a third baseman. he played a pretty solid third base here. eddie was on the down-side, too, but he was a great hof caliber player - plus he kicked frank robinson’s posterior in a famous on-field altercation. horner’s considered all-time unless you think chipper has dethroned him - horner moved to first when his skill declined. (mathews moved to fitst, aaron moved to first, mantle moved to first, but not chipper). horner fought injuries early. pendleton was a mvp over there, again on the tag-end of his career. castilla was a vacuum cleaner. evans hit for power plus he saw ufo’s. chipper fits in nicely in the group. where is chpper today?

By brian

July 2, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

it is looking like the braves may have found their stopper of the future = Chuck James. Granted he is young and hitters will adjust but he is nowhere near his prime. Ramirez also seems to be finding his groove. If Davies can reach anywhere close to his potential the Braves have a solid core of 3 pitchers to build on for the future. I agree that it remains to be seen whether Hudson will be a part of it.

DOB- my question for you is if the Braves are considering trading Hudson (big IF I know), wouldn’t it be better to trade him this year before the trade deadline. With no big starters on the market, Hudson’s value will be through the roof. I expect more starters will be moved in the offseason and teams will not be as desparate for starters in the offseason as they will be in a few weeks. I think the Braves could really help themselves both now and for the future if they play their cards right with Hudson and Giles.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

add wilson betemit to that third base list jimmy smith put together earlier. 3 for 3 today. quickest bat on the team.

By Del

July 2, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

WB started for Chipper today. Team comes alive. Co-incidental? I think not !!

Even the Braves announcers say he HAS to play every day. Figure it out Bobby.

By Beachcomber

July 2, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

Quickest bat - perhaps. Also the shakiest glove.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

Hello Blog,

Back from road trip….hope you enjoyed the my time off from the Blog.

How bout Giles…….and WB……we just dont have any where to play him. Especially if Giles continues his hot hitting. Thats the problem now….both chipper and giles is swinging good.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

chipper leads the majors in errors at his position (well, he’s one back) and his fielding percentage is currently .928. betemit doesn’t know when he will play or where he will play yet his fielding percentage is .927 after that 3-error game. wish it wasn’t so, but it is. betemit played a good third base last year and hit well, too. put him at third and let chipper play first when he feels better.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this

quick to give the bats credit but Kris Benson was throwing meat.

By Joe Roman

July 2, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

Others mention this occasionally too, but it’s worth bring up again. This constant, bitter crticism and second-guessing by self-appointred experts didn’t reach epidemic proportions until the acendance of ESPN. Now, a large percentage of their viewers emulate almost word-for-word the gospel of ESPN. It is worthy of note that the “sports network” seems to consistently hire failed managers and general managers as “expert commentators” and elavate people who appear to know practically nothing about the games they call to exhalted positions. A case-in-point is Chris Berman, quite possibly the most irritating, boring person on the face of the earth. There’s also Peter Gammons. Has any of his “inside information” ever been right, and has he ever said a word about being wrong??? It would be a tremendous boost to the notion of Truth In Advertising if ESPN changed its name to the ‘I Know Better’ network. Try thinking for yourselves, ESPN addicts, you wouldn’t come off quite so stupid.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this

then you take our argubly 2nd best defensive player off the feild for a guy who’s never played the position…….many people I think dont relize the importance of a quality defensive 1st basemen. I can say how many great plays LaRoach makes that doesnt get any comments.

By MBATL

July 2, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, Horner? Really? Oh well.

As to WB, seems to me if we’re gonna demand that he play, it should be at 2B or 1B, where we have a real problem. From all I hear, CJ ain’t changing teams or positions, so why spit into the wind on that? I’m a Giles fan, but he does seem primed to be traded, so that seems to me the place for WB. Maybe it will be, after the trade deadline.

CJ is having a bad year, but still is hitting in the high .290s… I can’t see us pulling that bat out of the lineup for WB.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

I agree about Hudson. Trading him this year might actually help the team now and in the future. If his decline continues into the 2nd half there won’t be as many takers in the off-season or next year. When Davies returns, plug him into the rotation…he can’t do any worse than Hudson; he’s also younger and cheaper.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

Man….if H. Ramirez and C. James pitch like this we may have another Glavine/Maddux……way too soon to say that…but at least they show that there capable of it. If K. Davies is the real deal, look out.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

Steve Phillips is an idiot. He said today that the Yankees will try to trade A-Rod during the offseason. Who can afford him? I don’t see them trading him to Boston or paying some of his salary. I think he’s got 4 more years on that $250 million deal he signed with Texas.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

HoRam seems to respond better to McDowell. The reason we’re seeing his 2003 resurgence in late June/early July is because he was hurt earlier in the season.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

he’s heating up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Matt

July 2, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

CJones, pinchit homer. He is hot. Where are all the CJones bashers, where are you JohnnyTaco.

By hk

July 2, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

… way to go Chipper !!!

By Matt

July 2, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

I mean hot as in hitting by the way

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

finally an offensive explosion

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Hey, looks like we’ll be 1-1 in July…already an improvement over June.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

thats 3 home runs for chipper this week is not?

By Josh

July 2, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this

wheres all the Chipper haters at?

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

who dont like skip? this is hilarious….what there doing now!!!!!!

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

If Reitsma has season-ending surgery, will insurance pay any on this season’s salary? He’s owed over a million for the rest of the year, and perhaps insurance could cover a few hundred thousand.

By Calvin

July 2, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

Glasshalffull, Texas is paying some of that huge contract. I am not sure of the exact number but they are footing the bill on some of it. You would think if the Yanks trade A-Rod, they also would pay some of that contract.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

I’m hopeful that the homerun derby this year won’t be that gay WBC format…I guess we’ll only have to endure that garbage every 4 years.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

Maybe so, but how stupid are 10 year contracts?

By Matt

July 2, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

About ESPN, they have always been and will always be bias against the Braves. There favorite cities, Boston and NY and the Mets haven’t gotten past the Braves in 14 years. They don’t talk about McCann or any other player. Hell, most of AJones catches don’t even make the webgems. And yes they are idiots and I would say wrong 90% of the time. Did anybody watch the NBA draft. Hilarious, they would say, NY will select so and so and then NY would select someone else. Hilarious. Screw ESPN, I have almost completely stopped watching that channel.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

whats up with chipper getting hurt when he’s hot…..thats gotta be disappointing.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones might make more highlight clips if he dove at every pop-fly like Edmonds or crashed into the wall like Torii Hunter.

By Glass Half Full

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

Oh, and let’s explain to the majority of national broadcasters that the “U” in Andruw’s name is between the R & W, not the A & N. ANdruw, mother f***! Not, ONdruw.

By Head Coach

July 2, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

This just in : Andruw Jones , Edgar Renteria and Brian McCann will be going to the All-Star game. I agree with Renteria and McCann , but I’m not in total agreement about Andruw. Braves win a series for the first time since May , hoo Raaa !!!!

By Matt

July 2, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

What about ESPN idiots saying Betameat!

By Matt

July 2, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

We won the TampaBay series.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

I enjoy Baseball Tonight, but I do get tired of hearing about Papi, Manny, Pedro, A-Rod, and Jeter. There are other players in the league, ya know? Also, some people watch ESPN’s games to see other teams, but it’s always the same ones.

By hk

July 2, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

… ‘MVP’ through today … Chipper gradually moving up, his MVP would be 230 adjusting for games played …

Year End….Runs..Homers..RBI’s..MVP

Andruw…….93…..36…..130…259

Francoeur….77…..30…..115…221

Chipper……91…..20……81…192

LaRoche……75…..26……81…182

Renteria…..91…..16……63…170

Giles……..91…..10……55…156

McCann…….45…..10……45…101

Langerhans…49…..10……34….93

Betemit……38…..12……36….85

click here for curves

By Joe Roman

July 2, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the back-up, Matt. The bias isn’t just against the Braves. It’s anyplace more than 200 miles from their Connecticut headquarters. I used to dream of a competitive network, but the overall ratings numbers of ESPN are so tiny, it’s easy to see why no one bothers. Their desperation for low cost programming is why all of a sudden poker-POKER!!! is a spectator sport. For all you ESPN lovers, look to alternatives. They’re very close by, right here on the Internet.

By Calvin

July 2, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this

Matt, HeadCoach means the first winning series at home since sweeping Florida in May.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

mbatl, jimmy smith’s post was misunderstood. horner was named all-time by the braves 400 club. chipper now shares that honor. there have been some good third basemen in atlanta. heck, darrell evans was an all-star twice. chipper is slowing down - at one time players moved to first base to prolong their careers. if he’s going to be here - and jimmy smith agrees that it looks like he is going to be here - maybe first is the place for him. betemit could then take third base as his own and show what he can do. journalist is not advocating taking the best bats out - jimmy smith is advocating getting the best bats in the lineup at the same time. check old posts and you will find consistency in journalist’s position. now, if wb does become third baseman for the braves will he have a diary? is he smart or will he uh, embarrass himself with the diary? if chipper goes to first that removes laroche - a superior fielder. if betemit goes to second that removes giles and if betemit plays short, renteria can go to second. if mccann plays third, pratt can pitch and hudson can catch. there are many possibilities yet to be explored on this blog. none of them include leaving the best players on the bench.

By Matt

July 2, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

I wasn’t meaning any disrespect to HeadCoach, just thought he might have forgot.

By Joe Roman

July 2, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

For those of you who wonder why we get all the obnoxious B.S. from Mets fans on this site, I have an answer. Check out the Mets forum on the NYTimes.com site. Those people are all classy. They understand the game. They are civil and all round good sports. The creeps who post here are surely all on the “ignore” list with the real baseball fans who contribute to the Times forum on The Mets. My only wish is that the same type of people posted here as there.

By Miss Matha Met

July 2, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

People like you, Joe? You don’t exactly draw a crowd with your posts. Willie Randolph for Mayor!

By Head Coach

July 2, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Yep , I should have said at home. Sorry guys. Dont pay these crazy Mets fans any attention , They are going to get spanked in the playoffs.

By By Billy the Blogger (TBFNB)

July 2, 2006 07:01 PM | Link to this

Hey,

I just had an idea…..how bout we trade T. Hudson for C. Lee…..mabey add a mid level prospect.

By ncscoots

July 2, 2006 07:19 PM | Link to this

Kent, you mind identifying some of the scouts, Braves or otherwise, who have said Wilson Betemit can be an “impact” player? And for the folks who think Diaz is an answer, he’s hitting .680 against the Marlins (17-for-25) and about .250 against everybody else. Unfortunately, we play 19 games against Florida, 143 against other teams.

By ncscoots

July 2, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

MBATL, good to see your posts, dude! As have many of us, I believe you might have take a little hiatus from the old blog. good to see ya, bubba. Good comparison on Horner and Francoeur, I had forgotten that Horner wasn’t walking much early in his career, either. If Francoeur had that short, conpact, atomic-powered swing of Horner’s, he could wait back on the ball a little longer, couldn’t he? LOL

By Joe Roman

July 2, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this

Thank you, miss matha met. You prove my point. I knew it wouldn’t take long.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

scoots, horner would break a bat without hitting the ball - he whipped the bat so quickly at the ball. strong wrists. too bad he couldn’t remain healthy and in good favor in atlanta. now, journalist hopes chipper is okay because he can carry this team if he gets hot … but is the foot injury really a toe injury? oh, the humanity! let’s hope it is not a toe. toes make the player and in the case of a unitoe or a bitoe = if injured there is no telling how long chipper may be out. if dob learns it is a toe injury jimmy smith hopes he will let us know as soon as possible so that bloggers can come up with solutions. let’s hope chipper will see the best toe man in atlanta. piedmont, right? emory? veterinary?

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Unrelated post: totally awesome episode of “The Twilight Zone” on SciFi with Telly Sevalas and Talking Tiny…kicks a*!

By berigan

July 2, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

TBFNB, How about Carlos Lee for Tim Hudson and LaRoche? Since no matter what he does, people will hate him anyway, and he is dirt cheap, he would fit in for the Brewers….of course, the big IF, if they wanted Hudson.

By Lew

July 2, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

It was just reported on ESPN that when they interviewed Andruw and Chipper about being traded, both said they would retire before going to another team. In other words, the 10-5 rule would apply. They are going nowhere.

By Bob, journalist

July 2, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

I just got home after a 3 hour drive with no airconditioning … two storm cells so the windows had to be up … 101 in Chattanooga, 98 in Nashville.

Missed the game but is sounds like there were some indications of fundamental baseball being played … though 20% strikeouts is still disturbing.

Josh, I’m not a Chipper “hater” was somewhat surprised at Bowman’s headline “Chipper’s blast helps Braves in win”. It seemed a little contrived, given that we were ahead by 4 runs at the time.

Still, 15 for 31 indicates that he is seeing the ball well … unfortunately, we may never see him free of cronic problems with his digits.

A few days ago, I think someone suggested we take a look at Chipper’s web site … does anyone know if it’s still www.chipperjones.com? My opinion of that site is that it’s guilty of unacceptable behavior and a disservice to our esteemed third baseman.

Now for a hot tub and some sleep … churned buttermilk, sousemeat, homemade ice cream, and watermelon on Tuesday!

By MBATL

July 2, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, thanks for clarifying… sure didn’t mean to attack you on it…just conversating, as I heard on a newscast in Jacksonville this weekend, and didn’t understand the ‘alltime’ reference.

Like you said, Horner always had nagging injuries, and of course never bothered to get in shape… sort of the John Daly of baseball… oh what might’ve been.

By Kent

July 2, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

More and more Braves fans are beginning to figure out what I think the Braves’ coaching staff has known for a while… that they need to find a way to get Betemit in the everyday lineup. But how?

So far folks have posted suggestions here ranging from moving Chipper to 1st base (Betemit to play 3rd), to trading Giles and playing Betemit at 2nd base, to tradiing Chipper (which probably isn’t even doable) and replacing him with Betemit at 3rd.

There’s one thing I haven’t seen suggested (and maybe I’ve just missed it), but why not move Chipper back to a position he actually played for 2 full seasons, left field?

It just so happens that our offensive production from LF hasn’t been all that great. So why not?

The only reason I can think of is that LF may be a little more demanding on Chipper physically than 3B, and his body has been breaking down a bit more over the past few seasons. But that move would give the offense a shot in the arm.

By Bob, journalist

July 2, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this

oops, that’s “but I was simewhat …”

By Johnny Taco

July 2, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Chipper Jones hits a meaningless homerun, when the game is clearly won. What does he do when they are behind, or the game is on the line? I’m surprised there’s no chatter on this BLOG for Zipper to be on the AllStar team. Maybe his statue at Turner Field can go between the hotdog stand and cotton candy stand.

With Reitsma out for the year, anyone know the status of his contract for next season? Hopefully he has played his last game as an Atlanta Brave.

Knowing Bobby Cox, Reitsma, Jordan & Remmie will all have invites to spring training !

By Cornholio

July 2, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this

Chipper can’t be traded.

Chipper won’t go to firstbase.

Chipper won’t go to left field.

By Cornholio

July 2, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this

Chipper can’t be traded.

Chipper won’t go to firstbase.

Chipper won’t go to left field.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 2, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

journalist bob, if you have not yet gotten into the hot tub of water … you must clarify the term “sousemeat”. many mets fans now frequent this blog and they probably have no idea of the souse and where it can be found. were carolina lady well and still blogging we could call on her to help with this discussion. in her absence, and fearing that you may have dozed off in the tub, journalist jimmy smith will explain about the souse and its meat as a delicacy. first, the souse is a toed animal. that means it has toes - but the toes are not edible. sousemeat goes well with cheese so it is often consumed by baseball writers either on a cracker or from a spoon. the souse itself is a small animal often found around car pools or ponds. sometimes the souse will climb a tree, next it will dig a hole. it has tender feet and sometimes misses play when the feets are hurtin’. sousemeat is tolerable on a hot day if there is ice cream and cold watermelon. otherwise, stick to steak. caution: always keep a crawlspace closed to avoid having a souse under the house. this is not pretty. can anyone believe bob is eating a souse on the 4th? bob, come over to jimmy smith’s - journalist is barbecuing a hartebeest.

By Bob, journalist

July 2, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

Kent, it’s possibly true that we were slower than we should have been in recognizing that the “buttermint babe” should be playing every day. I personally would like to see him at short with Edgar playing second … but now peobably isn’t the time to suggest or try that … even if Edgar was in agreement.

I’d prefer a “first baseman” to play first and I think we’ve got a pretty good one over there now, especially if he continues to improve and gain confidence with the speeding up of his swing.

You’ve certainly hit on part of the reason for not playing Chipper in the Outfield … I think that the other reasons may be that (1) he doesn’t want to do it and (2) he’s rather inept as an outfielder … though not too many balls ever got over his head without leaving the park.

By Kent

July 2, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Johnny Taco, Chipper has had a subpar season so far. No doubt about it. Chipper’s level of play last month was right in line with what the Braves did in June… nothing. (Nothing we want to rememeber anyway).

But he’s been coming on strong lately. It wasn’t just his homer tonight. He’s starting to see and hit the ball like everyone expects Chipper to hit the ball. That’s good news. While he won’t be winning anymore MVP awards, he’s not washed up. Not by a long shot. Chipper’s not part of of the problem, he’s part of the solution. (Yes, he was part of the proble last month, but so were a lot of guys).

As far as Reitsma’s concerned, he signed a one year contract before the start of this season, so I’m assuming the Braves will have no further obligation to him after this year, but I’m not positive.

To respond to your “invite” comments. Jordan will retire at the end of the season, if not before then. And Remlinger is gone for good.

Reitsma probably will get another shot with Atlanta, and if in fact his hand/arm trouble caused his problems this year, inviting a healthy Reitsma to compete for a job next year probably wouldn’t be a bad thing. However, it sounds like he’s probably going to have to have Tommy John surgery, so he won’t pitch again until the middle of next season at the earliest.

By Kent

July 2, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist: Personally, I didn’t think Chipper was bad at all in left. But having said that, he might be a step slower than he was just a couple of years ago.

By Bob, journalist

July 2, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

Kent, that was just my impression … it seemed to me that he never mastered going back on balls hit over his head so, to compensate, he played too deep.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

You guys watching this hilarious drubbing the Yankees are handing out to the Mets?

By Justin

July 2, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

what do you guys think about this trade ryan langerhans to Kansas City for their closer alex burgos. Burgos has a good fastball and a nice curv.

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Maybe they’ll beat each other senseless and there’ll be lots of injuries

By Glass Half Full

July 2, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

Burgos did O.K. last year, but he’s struggled in ‘06. ERA over 6, 7 blown saves.

By Head Coach

July 2, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

Reitsma is under a one year contract for 2006 with Atlanta , so more than likely we have seen the last of him. He’s a really nice guy and I wish him the best wherever he ends up next season. Chipper has bad wheels and a big contract and wants his shot at the Hall of Fame as a 3b. Andruw , McCann and Renteria in the All-Star game and well deserving of it. Not a single Braves pitcher was nominated , what does that say about our pitching in the first half ?

By Head Coach

July 2, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

O yea , Ive seen some comparisons of Chipper to Eddie Matthews. I say get back to me after the 2010 season and we can see where and how Larry Jones Jr. stacks up next to the Braves hall of fame third baseman.

By Bob, journalist

July 2, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, You’re a delight!

I got the water too hot … posted to Kent while waiting for it to cool down then immediately got in the tub and missed your post.

Contrary to rumor, sousemeat is not the flesh of a souse though it might be better for yankees to be a bit pickled before they try it. It’s not just Southern but actually an international delicacy for those who truly appreciate the finer things in life … however, you might find some “toes” in today’s storebought “HeadCheese” stuff.

We usually get ours “homemade”, from the farm, so I really don’t know all the ingredients … or maybe I just don’t want to know … but, ain’t nothing better than good sousemeat … it’s good!

I especially like it, soaked in apple cider vinegar, and eaten with saltines … and agree that it goes well with cheese.

I really appreciate the invite but, I’m not about to make another trip until I get the air conditioning fixed … still, barbecued hartebeest is mighty tempting!

Now for a nap!

By Todd A

July 2, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

13-5 yankees in the 5th inning.Now that’s funny….I don’t care who you are.

By LittleChopofHorrors

July 3, 2006 12:27 AM | Link to this

HeadCoach is right — Chipper’s got a whole lot of declining to do yet. By 2010 even the most shameless Chipper lover will have to confess that Eddie Mathews was better.

By Tomahawkin

July 3, 2006 12:38 AM | Link to this

Hey D.O.B. I’ve been away 4 a while (too much partyin) but I saw the last post and saw a coulple of cats dissin you (mainly Chopthis)…all I hafta say is don’t worry about it Dawg, U Know who the TRU braves fans are, so If I was you I wouldn’t even waste my time wit them ya dig???, but on a real note what has gotten into Chipper, Maybe since he saw Pay-Rod and Jeter play the game right, he has been clownin, much like the Chippa we used to know…

Anyone’s Thoughts, Holla Back…

Go Braves

BTW We are going to need to play ABC baseball against the Cards This week if we are goin to take them out…because only a few teams play better ABC Baseball than the cards thats why they are hard!!!….

Peace, I’m goin to a bar but holla back…

By Tomahawkin

July 3, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this

Cornholio, Ur Knew, is dat name off Beavis and Butt-head?, if it is that is funny, I love dat show, and BTW, Yanks wiping the floor wit the Mutts is….Uh….PRICELESS…

By The Journalist Also Known As (TBFNB)

July 3, 2006 01:05 AM | Link to this

AHEM!!!

Twas the night before the second half began. All through the Ted did not a Brave stir. Nightmares of no post season shook them all. Along came a clamor waking all up from their slumber. They all ran the bases with a full vigor. Only to see chipper sprain another finger. They played on only to see the bullpen blow another smolzie zinger.

Well thats all I could think of……..my days as a journalist are over……

Good night

By Billy, Retired Journalist (TBFNB)

July 3, 2006 01:10 AM | Link to this

The Card’s are next…..I was watching highlights and it looks like A. Pujols short-lived slump is over……was hoping it would last through the first part of this week. Mabey we can bang aroud thier ptiching. LOL

By Tomahwkin

July 3, 2006 03:20 AM | Link to this

4 some reason I think Pujols, Rolen ,and Edmonds are about to have a feast on our Blowpwn this series LET’s STOP DAT SHYT, GO BRAVES!

By Tomahwkin

July 3, 2006 03:24 AM | Link to this

Where bU t D.O.B. I Think we have a mutual understanding about what goes on wit this team, It Stinks!!! barring a diaster by the Mutts we are DONE!

By berigan

July 3, 2006 07:53 AM | Link to this

Johnny Taco, you said Chipper hit a meaningless home run Sunday? With this bullpen?

By Chico Escuela

July 3, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

Eddie Mathews vs Chipper Jones ?

Like comparing apples to oranges.

Totally different eras.

Before we start comparing statistics, I beleive there were only eight (8) National League teams when Eddie played, before expansion occurred in 1962. The caliber of play was much better, not watered down like it is now. With 16 teams in each league the overall talent is watered down.

Mathews was a dominant player in baseball during the 50s & early 60s. In baseball there were the “Three M’s” : Mantle, Mays & Mathews.

Eddie played on some great teams, and was the acknowledged field leader of those teams. Other than his MVP year of 1999, I really haven’t sensed any lead by example attitude by Chipper Jones. Since 1996 Chipper primarily has been secondary to other players on the team.

I don’t see Chipper going to the Hall of Fame unless there is a dramatic turnaround in his production. I suspect he’ll retire when the current contract expires.

By Chico Escuela

July 3, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

Eddie Mathews vs Chipper Jones ?

Like comparing apples to oranges.

Totally different eras.

Before we start comparing statistics, I beleive there were only eight (8) National League teams when Eddie played, before expansion occurred in 1962. The caliber of play was much better, not watered down like it is now. With 16 teams in each league the overall talent is watered down.

Mathews was a dominant player in baseball during the 50s & early 60s. In baseball there were the “Three M’s” : Mantle, Mays & Mathews.

Eddie played on some great teams, and was the acknowledged field leader of those teams. Other than his MVP year of 1999, I really haven’t sensed any lead by example attitude by Chipper Jones. Since 1996 Chipper primarily has been secondary to other players on the team.

I don’t see Chipper going to the Hall of Fame unless there is a dramatic turnaround in his production. I suspect he’ll retire when the current contract expires.

By Chico Escuela

July 3, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

Eddie Mathews vs Chipper Jones ?

Like comparing apples to oranges.

Totally different eras.

Before we start comparing statistics, I beleive there were only eight (8) National League teams when Eddie played, before expansion occurred in 1962. The caliber of play was much better, not watered down like it is now. With 16 teams in each league the overall talent is watered down.

Mathews was a dominant player in baseball during the 50s & early 60s. In baseball there were the “Three M’s” : Mantle, Mays & Mathews.

Eddie played on some great teams, and was the acknowledged field leader of those teams. Other than his MVP year of 1999, I really haven’t sensed any lead by example attitude by Chipper Jones. Since 1996 Chipper primarily has been secondary to other players on the team.

I don’t see Chipper going to the Hall of Fame unless there is a dramatic turnaround in his production. I suspect he’ll retire when the current contract expires.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 3, 2006 09:21 AM | Link to this

“In 1957, when the Braves played the Yankees in the World Series, Mathews went without a hit in the first three games. But he won Game 4 with a two-run homer off Bob Grim in the 10th inning, scored the only run in Burdette’s 1-0 victory in Game 5, then had a two-run double as Burdette won his third game of the Series, stopping the Yankees, 5-0, in Game 7. To punctuate his performance, Mathews ended the series with a backhanded stab of a hard ground ball hit by Bill Skowron with the bases loaded. The Braves won the pennant again in 1958.”

journalist invites comparisons.

By Lew

July 3, 2006 09:39 AM | Link to this

All I remember as a kid in Philadelphia, was the Braves with Aaron and Mathews tearing up the Phillies at Connie Mack Stadium. Two 500 HR hitters. Even so, except for 57 and 58 they really never had that great a team. Then again, it seemed like everyone had good teams then except the Phillies.

By Kent

July 3, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

Good news! The Braves are officially out of their funk. Here’s are the things that have made the difference lately in my view:

1-Bullpen is performing much better. We all knew this was a mediocre bullpen, but they were underachieving at that. The Braves may still need to add a releiver or two to make a serious wild card run, but the bullpen hemmorrhaging seems to have stopped for now.

2-Heracio Ramirez and Chuck James. These guys have been very, very good. Frankly, their performance has been so promising, that I think Tim Hudson is the only thing standing in the way of this being the best starting rotation in the NL right now. If Huddy get’s it turned around, look out!

3-Several Braves are swinging better bats than they were 2-3 weeks ago, including: Chipper jones (let’s hope he’s not sidelined right when he’s getting hot), Marcus Giles, Jeff Francoeur, Adam Laroche, and E.Renteria (as good as he’s been all year, even he shaved 15-20 points off his batting average in the month of June). McCann was injured for a significant portion of the month, and getting him back was a shot in the arm.

By A Nobody

July 3, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

Good morning to all! I just slipped the surly bonds of the medicos but am on (VERY!) limited duty for a while yet.

Thanks to each one of you who have sent good wishes my way! A Nobody (my cousin-in-law…..is that a real term??) printed out many of the posts and I was very touched! Y’all are ‘good people’! All I can say is Thank you and God bless!

Cousin Jimmy Smith! You hit it right on with the souses. I think there’s a bunch of them nesting about a 1000 yards east of the house; saw some signs of their presence last time I was out that way. Not bad little guys, but they don’t smell very good. (What a delight to sign on again and find your humor, dear cousin!)

I’ll be following Bob’s example of frequent naps, it seems. Wow, my reserve tanks are absolutely empty but I hate sitting and watching someone else do my ‘stuff’! Patience is a virtue, I guess. Though the Braves ‘bout wore mine out. A few recent wins?? Halleleuia!! Can’t wait til next year!

By Carolina Lady

July 3, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this

Sorry, he used my machine last and I didn’t realize the name was changed.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 3, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

carolina lady! what a nice surprise! welcome back to the blog! it is good that you are at home and feeling better. your braves are improving and the young pitchers are leading the way. everyone on the blog will be happy that you are back. even crusty old dob will be happy - (he gets a royalty when we post). follow doctor’s orders and get strong. and how is the hartebeest? probably fewer crows, right?

By Carolina Lady

July 3, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Jimmy! I have about as many crows as the bullpen has saves/wins! Other folks have been (and still are) taking care of everything around here for me (Mother is temporarily at another relative’s home until I get back on my feet again), and they’re doing a wonderful job! My daughter has stayed here, but there have been plenty of people taking care of her and staying with her. I am so blessed!!!

Everything is in ‘apple pie’ order and the animals are fat and sleek. Scooper (raccoon mama) had quadruplets this year, Front Foot (another) has triplets, Little Girl (yet another) has twins, and there is one orphan (don’t know whose baby he is or what happened to his family.) He is WAY too young to be on his own, but he knows where to come for food if the pickin’s get slim in the woods and he seems to be holding his own with the others of his kind. Hartebeest and deer are doing well! :-)

Now if the team can just continue their own recouperation, all will be well!

By Kent

July 3, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

I’m heading out to the Ted tonight to watch good ole’ Smoltzy do his thing. Anyone else going tonight? Just curious.

By Bob, journalist

July 3, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

Todays a winner … even if we get beat 100 - 0 … Welcome back, My Lady!!

By Billy, Retired Journalist (TBFNB)

July 3, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

i might

By Kent

July 3, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this

Anyone know if Turner Field is doing fireworks tonight, or tomorrow? Some places do it on the 3rd instead of the 4th.

By Ron Roberts

July 3, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

All three deserve to be in the game, no debate.

But more importantly, I really believe this team has turned a corner, guys. 81 games left, and I think they’ll win 45-55 of ‘em. I really do.

Smoltz, HoRam and Chuck James have been consistent, and dammit, if only Hudson can get back to pre-June form, I like our rotation, and shock of all shocks, I actually like our bullpen now. Yates, Paronto, heck this Barry kid, too, and even Sosa, minus an A-Rod bomb, have all been fairly usable in their roles.

Dead serious here. I think this team’s gonna pull itself back into playoff contention.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 3, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

journalist bob, your nap is over … and carolina lady is back. this “front foot” she mentioned is an occassional blogger here, right? goes by the name of (deleted by ajc to preserve harmony on this blog). well, it is good. 4th of july tomorrow, braves playing better ball, mccann, renteria, and andruw heading to pittsburgh, carolina lady on the mend, fewer crows than before, and more pie for everybody. now, if dob would just begin a new blog …

now, baseball … mccann’s daddy will really enjoy this all-star game, don’t you think? jimmy smith is happy for the mccann family. journalist still thinks mccann’s daddy could help the braves. big jump to the majors - but apparently he knows how to teach the game. jimmy smith can think of a couple of braves that could use his instruction.

By Kent

July 3, 2006 11:31 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts: I agree. I think the Braves have turned a corner.

And pleeeease nobody give me any crap about how many teams Atlanta have to pass to win the Wild Card.

There are nine teams standing between Atlanta and 1st place in the wild card race right now, and the fact of matter is that the Braves are better than all of them. The question is how much better?

Is this team good enough to make up 9 games in the standings in a 1/2 a season? I think so, but there are three things that would greatly help their chances:

1-Hudson has to get it turned around. He is the difference between this rotation being decent or being great.

2-The bullpen must improve. They have already improved greatly from where they were 2-3 weeks ago, but Shuerholz still needs to add a piece or two (and I’m sure he’s working on it).

3-Andruw Jones needs to step it up. We need him to be the kind of presence that he was in this lineup last season. That would give everyone around him in the lineup better pitches to hit.

If these 3 things happen, I would bet real money that the Braves will play October baseball. The Braves are potentially far and away the best non-division-leading team in the NL. Let’s see if they can put it all together.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 3, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

ron roberts, journalist jimmy smith also is feeling good about the team. pitching makes all the difference, huh? now, just a thought - our pitchers are throwing some really mean sinkers. know who the sinker expert is, right? jimmy smith thinks mcdowell must be helping a bunch. when the sinker is working that ball just gets pounded into the ground. it’s working for several guys.

By paluka

July 3, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

Tim Hudson must be traded ASAP!!! His value is only going to get worse. If only a contender would take him. Maybe Boston (Wily Mo Pena or Coco Crisp); NYY(withMarcus Giles for Robinson Cano and Scott Proctor) Detroit(Joel Zumaya or Fernando Rodny or with Ryan Langerhans for Zach Monor and Curtis Granderson); Texas(Kevin Mensch); St.Louis(Adam Wainright or Randy Flores and a prospect); San Diego(Scott Linebrink or Scott Cassidy and Dave Roberts); San Franscisco(Noah Lowery or Brad Hennessey). I also think some non-contenders may want him such as: Houston( Brad Lidge or Chad Qualls); Baltimore( Brian Roberts Jay Gibbons) Cleveland (Rafael Bentancourt Ben Brousard); Seattle( Gil Mensch Jose Lopez)

By Sammy Kershaw

July 3, 2006 11:53 AM | Link to this

fireworks tommorow.

By Kent

July 3, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this

Paiuka, I’ll say it again… don’t sell all your Tim Hudson stock just yet.

He’s had 4 lousy starts. It’s concerning, sure. But it’s way to early to panic.

His control has been the issue lately. His stuff is just fine, but he’s missing over the plate. He’ll get it turned around. His salary next season will be (I think) aboud 6 million. By major league $ standards, that’s a bargain for a guy of Huddy’s caliber.

By MBATL

July 3, 2006 12:02 PM | Link to this

Guess I started this CJ/Eddie Matthews thing… I really wasn’t saying Chipper is better than Matthews - in fact, I am NOT saying that; just that in many ways Chipper’s numbers compare favorably.

I’m not denying Chippers’s power is down, and he’s had a rough year in the field, and that hurts… but remember how he pounded the Mets for about 3 years when they were our main rival; he’s hit .288 with 13 HR, 47 RBI and a .411 obp in 92 post-season games; that’s against quality pitching.

Also, in addition to the salary restructuring last offseason, Chipper made a bigger sacrifice by moving to LF for 2 years. He would probably have been an allstar as a 3B those 2 years, but not at the more power-laden OF position. Yes, that hurts his HOF chances, and I can’t blame a guy for having that as a goal.

Anyway, I’m not nominating CJ for Player of the Century; just think people are pouncing pretty hard on a guy who is still a pretty solid baseball player.

By Kent

July 3, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Paluka… sorry, I mistyped your name.

By Kent

July 3, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

Journalist, Jimmy: Good point about the sinkers being thrown this year. Reviews on McDowell have been very good from all I hear. Looks like he’s done a great job with Heracio Ramirez among others.

By Bob, journalist

July 3, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Tonight’s should be one of the most interesting games of the year.

Billy, you can’t go unless you promise to bring home a victory. Now that you’re retired … maybe they’ll give you an honorary “Press” pass … just make sure your seat isn’t located in the laundry room and remember to be nice if ESPN tries to interview you!

While Chipper’s homerun may have been rather meaningless in terms of its impact on the outcome of the game, I suspect that we’ll find it was of great significance to the team and especially to Chipper … maybe like getting an old “silverback” off his.

It’s real easy to unintentionally step on someone’s toes when dancing or blogging … so I’m going to try to be especially nice when talking about Chipper … his feet are sore enough as it is. I remember my son asking me, many seasons ago … “Daddy, how many feet are in a yard?” I told him the answer was three. He looked puzzled, then grinned “that’s strange, our teacher said it depended on how many people were standing in it … and three’s an odd number.” Not bad math instincts or humor from a seven year old.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 3, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

journalist bob, jimmy smith has no such sensitivities regarding uh, chipper. given that same math problem chippper might have stomped his hoo …uh, foot on the ground repeatedly in answer. could this lead to foot distress and soreness? the mr. ed comparisons will not leave jimmy smith - who started this mr. ed foolishness? even the hartebeest knows you must preserve your toes in baseball.

now, another reason journalist jimmy smith loves baseball. bobby was being interviewed yesterday and the subject of reitsma came up. bobby said something like, “he may not be back this year, it’s very painful and he can’t feel anything, and if he can’t get back this year then we’ll invite him to camp and see what he has next year.” now, bobby stands second to no one on that statement- casey, yogi, dan quayle, nobody.

now, somebody will explain that to jimmy smith and that’s fine. somebody needs to. and what of paronto? jimmy smith is ashamed that he abandoned paronto as a “p” player when he had two bad outings. of course, bobby ran him out there day after day until he faltered. overuse can cause toe problems and a sinker that does not sink.

By Michael

July 6, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

One thing that no one is saying, but we all have to consider is that Smoltz could end up going back to closing games. I know he didn’t like it, but the guy is a team guy and with the emergence of James and Ramirez, if we end up in the thick of things for a playoff spot, I could see him accepting the role. The funny thing is that a couple of years closing for Smoltz would probably cement his hall of fame bust!