Braves

By Brent

July 5, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Next up:

Hudson turns it around!

By ZB Pike

July 5, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You’re right about the turnaround…is it possible he is wanting out of Atlanta too?? Perhaps he is thinking (realizing) that if he can turn it around, he can sign on with another team and perhaps get a long term deal out of it?!?! At any rate, I’m certainly glad to see him contribute.

I would hate to see 22 leave, but, he is one of the more replaceable pieces and could provide us a good left fielder/leadoff guy in return.

By geauxbraves2000

July 5, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

Hudson can turn it around, I truly believe that, but I think Thomson as a starter is done. Maybe he could do some situational pitching from the pen, but even that doesn’t sound too comforting. I think the Braves need to try and get something for him, even if it’s just a prospect or two, who knows, that prospect could be the next John Smoltz.

I hate to see Giles leave, but I agree w/DOB about him being expendable. Maybe a three team swap to somehow get Carl Crawford. Whatever, but a change does need to be made, it needed to be made weeks ago.

If only one trade is made though, I would take some help in the pen over offensive help.

Great article DOB.

Geaux Braves!

By Jason

July 5, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Maybe he can share his tips on improvement with Francoeur whose .277 OBP is now third worst in the entire NL amongst qualified batters. He has walked 7 times in 347 AB’s. SEVEN TIMES….why is nobody talking about this?!?!?

By Brent

July 5, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

Jason,

People only wanted to talk about Francoeur’s lack of walks when it was “cute.”

Now, it’s a dirty little secret that might damage his trade value.

By Kent

July 5, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

Giles could wind up in another uniform before the trade deadline, but I doubt it. That will only happen if they can get some one in return that will help them win this year. And if Hudson’s going anywhere, it won’t be until the offseason.

The Braves think they still have a real shot at playing in October (because they do), and they’ll need Tim Hudson (the real Tim Hudson, not the one we’ve seen over the past few weeks) if they are to make a serious post-season run.

By Vol

July 5, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

What about Hudson for Brandon Phillips of the Reds? 16 of 17 steals and .300+ average. They have Freel playing the utility role right now and he is a 2B. Maybe we just take Freel and put him in LF.

Would it help both teams (not that we need to help the wild card leader right now)? The Reds are as desperate for pitching as we are for leadoff.

Clears payroll and lets you unload Giles and/or a prospect for relief help.

By Vol

July 5, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Is there any chance at all to get Carl Crawford? Would anybody do Giles AND Hudson? I guess Tampa wouldn’t because of payroll limits.

By Kent

July 5, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

Brent: …might effect who’s trade value? Francoeur?????

By Chop Chop

July 5, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

Brent and Jason,

We talk plenty about Francoeur’s lack of plate discipline and propensity to strike out. The reason why he avoids some criticism comes from his “golden boy” status, although that has faded a little. I like to think that most fans take into account the fact that he’s a very talented kid who was brought up too early from the minors before he was fully developed as a player. I don’t blame him for that and, as a result, will cut him considerable slack. Another factor is that guys like Chipper and Giles haven’t lived up to expectations this year and that takes some heat off of Francoeur. As for me, I expect Francoeur’s plate discipline to improve as his career goes along, but for right now, what we see is what we get.

I guess McCann’s the golden boy now, huh?

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Jason, I think ESPN and SI have both done stories on Jeff’s obps. I still say, yeah, he needs to learn to take a walk, but if we get 30 hr, 110 rbi out of our 22-yr-old right fielder (and he’s shown the ability to hit in the clutch), that’s okay… worth working with him to increase the obp.

Man, I’d hate to lose Giles - he’s a very good 2b, a hustle guy, but is having a bad year at the plate until recently. I sure don’t think he wants out (only players I can remember that wanted out of Atlanta were Lofton, Sheffield, and Ligtenberg). GeauxBraves, almost impossible to have made the change weeks ago… nobody is willing to deal in May or June.

Crawford would be GREAT and a steal at almost any price (hudson, giles, salty… or some combination of above); he would fill a need at LF and leadoff; beyond that, some solid if not spectacular relief help. My world wouldn’t end if we stood pat and played the string out with this team as it is. Giles and Hudson are relatively cheap next year, and we can have the same discussion next year at this time if things haven’t turned around.

By Brent

July 5, 2006 04:05 PM | Link to this

Kent,

I was sort of joking.

I don’t see Francoeur going anywhere, anytime soon.

Chop Chop,

I, too, am willing to take the good with the bad as far as Jeff goes.

This Francoeur/LaRoche OBP debate is somewhat mind-numbing.
Sometimes, I like to play the other side of the fence (I’m typically pro-Francoeur), just to see what reactions I get.

Briefly: If Jeff starts to take more pitches, he will likely walk more.
Then, pitchers will be forced to throw him strikes, which he can hit, and his power numbers go up. I see significant upside in Jeff’s future.

Meanwhile, I’d at least like to see him take the 1st pitch a little more often.

By Bigmuddy

July 5, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

The Braves will begin to WIN when they: 1) start playing some small ball (at least moving some guys over) 2) Francour is “ordered” to start being more selective (aka Jim Leyland with the Tigers) and 3) quit swinging for the fence at every at -bat. Does Bobby ever talk about doing these things????

By Kent

July 5, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

Brent, ten-four. Yeah, Francoeur and Laroche do strike out a lot, and right now at least, don’t hit for a high average. But if you can get 55-60 home runs from two guys that are hitting in the bottom portion of your linup, you’ll take that anyday.

Francoeur has yet to play 162 games at the major league level. He’ll continue to mature as a hitter, and probably within a year or two, he’ll be ready to hit in the middle of the lineup. For now, Atlanta could use another consistent power bat, in addition to some bullpen help.

By Jason G

July 5, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

What about Giles intangibles? I just hate to get rid of a guy that guts it out and gives a 110%, that’s never in a bad mood or down in the dumps and provides a constant shot of adrenaline to the lineup with his attitude/energy level alone. That’s got to count for something. Now that he’s turning it around, why trade him? We suffered through the crap Giles, now why trade him when our patience, albiet forced for reason of no viable alternative, is now about to pay off. I am just not that crazy about giving him up. As DOB said, he’s one of the top 2-3 NL 2Bs around, what would we get for value?

By berigan

July 5, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

DOB, you say Betemit isn’t an every-day second baseman, but who knows, the guy is bounced around, he might be an every-day guy if he played the rest of the way. Wasn’t it tough for the Braves to think of Giles as an every-day guy when he first came up???

By Lew

July 5, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

Not only would Tampa not take on the payroll, the already have Jorge Cantu at second and Gomes as DH, who has much more power than Giles. DOB, you just said exactly what I’ve been saying for a week. I agree with you about the quality leadoff man in return. I would like to see Hudson bring some good, young pitching. We were debating trading Horacio on another site, but I really think he is going to be more than good. He’s young, the surgeryis seemingly behind him and we have the rights to him for several more years. Let’s not get rid of any more kids.

By Peter Gammons

July 5, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

Salty, Davies, Langerhans & Betemit to Tampa for Carl Crawford.

By nathan

July 5, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

Jason, in all fairness to Francoeur…..He does have only seven walks. But he has LESS strikouts than Andruw and MORE hits than Andruw. Although by barely in both categories. Oh and BTW…….HE’S ONLY 22!!!!! HE’S BEEN IN THE LEAGUE 10 LESS YEARS THAN ANDRUW AND MAKES ABOUT $15,000,000.00 A YEAR LESS THAN ANDRUW!

Give the kid a break. What’s andruws excuse after 10 years? Maybe bobby should put Frenchy back down in the order. But who else that already is lower in the order than him, would you move up? Diaz, maybe, against lefties. But certainly not Langerhans, or LaRoche!

Yes Francoeur is not a COMPLETE PLAYER….YET. But if everybody else in the lineup, rotation, and bullpen were doing WHAT THEY ARE GETTING PAID BIG DOLLARS (at least more than Francoeur is), everybody would be saying “hey, that second year player has a lot of RBI, not to mention he leads the league in 2 OUT RBI!) But instead, everybody wants to jump all over him. Like I said, the kid is 22, I’d be curious to see what Andruws walk rate was at 22. In fact I’m gonna look it up.

That’s all for now!….I’ll be back!

By nathan

July 5, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

OK….

Andruws lowest walk total since coming up full time was 1998 (his second full season) with 40. That year he also had 129 K’s, 31 HR’s and 90 RBI. Francoeur will for sure pass those production numbers. Plus you have to factor in the crap in the lineup surrounding Francoeur. Andruw came up with STELLAR support.

anyways here is the link to the ESPN sight for andruws stats if you are interested.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/stats?playerId=3520

By Bryan

July 5, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this

Dave,

I gotta recommend using iTunes for music purchases. On the road, midnight on a monday rolls around, instantly download the newest cd’s (or preview them). All CD’s are 9.99 to download! Yeah, it sucks that its in a ACC format, but if you burn the cd, then rip it back to the computer, you have a mp3 version with no strings attached.

John T looked bad, bad, bad. I would rather see Lance in there… whats the braves over all plan for LC? He is young, had success, and shows flashes of pro stuff.

So, did you have France and Italy in your bracket. I miss the south americans - would have loved to see argentina in the mix.

Bryan

By Bob, journalist

July 5, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

MBATL, Maybe my memory’s faulty, but it seems to me that I remember a fellow named Boone that could be added to the list.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this

I was wondering when you were going to point out Giles recent turnaround DOB. I still say we should trade him though - and absolutely for a lead-off man. The problem is, to who and for what lead-off man? Are there any teams right now who have a quality lead-off man that need a solid #2 hitting second baseman? And another question DOB, do you know if the Braves gave any consideration to Kenny Lofton in the offseason? He could have played left-field and hit lead off for us. He had a good year last year plus he has been with this organization before… Did they put too much stock (like I did) on Ryan Langerhans in left or what?

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this

Chipper won the NL Player of the week award. What a week he had. I hope his foot doesn’t nag him all season. Maybe this offseason he can have something done to it.

Braves are going to win tonight. Chuck James is amazing, and we are on a little mini roll right now, which needs to be transformed into a major roll.
GO BRAVES!!

By Karl Malden

July 5, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this

Reading yet another one of DOB’s rah-rah, sis-boom-bah, GO BRAVES blogs, you’d never guess they are in last place in the N.L. East and owners of the third worst record in the National League.

But, according to Dave, right in the thick of that wild card race!

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

I just wanted to comment on the Muts. I agree with the column from yesterday that their weakness’s are starting to show, but name another NL team who doesn’t have more weakness’s than they do? I mean, lets face it, the NL may as well be called AAAA. The Muts could easily sneak into the World Series this year, just based on the fact that the NL is so damn weak. Of course, it sets them up for a nice good hard butt whoopin’ in the World Series, but I could see a scenario where they make it to the World Series…

By nathan

July 5, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone…..You are right….Lofton would’ve been a pretty good addition. BUT…..If I remember correctly he didn’t like Atlanta and Bobby and JS sure didn’t see the need (or want) to keep him around after 1997. I highly doubt he wouldv’e signed a Free Agent deal to come to Atlanta. But, yeah, he definitely would’ve helped, provided he stay healthy.

By Adam

July 5, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

Karl,

True, we are currently last in the NL East. And true, only 2 teams are behind us in the Wild Card Race. But we are only a series away from changing both of those facts. We’re only 3.5 games away from owning the second best record in the NLE, and only 4 or 5 games away from being in the middle of the pack in the hunt for the Wild Card. (And, oh yeah, if we beat up the Reds, things could look markedly different heading into the midsummer classic.) We’ve erased second-half deficits of greater than 8 games before (and it might not even be 8 games a week from now). I’m not one to think that it is impossible to do again.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

..And the absolute disparity in quality teams between the NL and AL is just amazing to me. I mean, take teams like the Blue Jays and Twins… Stick them in the National League, and they are easily challenging the Mets for the best record. But in the AL, they are both a loooong shot to make the postseason. Put a team like the Devil Rays in the NL and I bet they probably lead the wild card race right now. I mean, do the Devil Rays really have that much worse a team than the Cincinatti Reds? If anything, I would give the nod to the D-Rays cuz at least their 1 good starter is a true ace (Kazmir). It is just mind boggling to me how the NL has fallen so far behind the AL. I mean, back to back SWEEPS in the World Series and like 8 or 9 straight losses in the All Star game… RIDICULOUS. - P.S. I know this has nothing to do with the blog, but I love the NL and it is sad to see what has happened to it. Anyone agree with me?

By Adam

July 5, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

Let’s forget about the teams we have to catch for the wild card and think about absolute win-loss numbers. The last five years, the NL wild card winner won 89, 92, 91, 95, and 93 games, respectively. Leaving aside the fact that this year the NL teams are struggling, to say the least, that gives us a 5-year average of 92 wins. For the Braves to achieve 92 wins, they need to go 56-22 for the second half. That is asking a lot, but it is not impossible.

By Bob, journalist

July 5, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Nathan, I’m on record for truly liking his swing … when he gets his pitch. However, it’s poor pitching to give him anything to really hit when he’ll swing at virtually anything … I don’t see how the “crap” surrounding him in the lineup has much to do with it.

It’s disappointing to read the posts and listen to announcers rationalizing on behalf of Frenchy … pointing to the numbers … homers, RBI, and even his batting average … and calling the first part of the season just a slump.

The fact that he’s now getting some basehits does not mean that any significant progress has been made in addressing his weaknesses … only time will tell.

When a player with average ability overacheives, that’s to be loudly applauded … but, when a highly talented player performs at the same level it’s disappointing … at least from my perspective.

It’s there for his taking.

By Adam

July 5, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Let’s forget about the teams we have to catch for the wild card and think about absolute win-loss numbers. The last five years, the NL wild card winner won 89, 92, 91, 95, and 93 games, respectively. Leaving aside the fact that this year the NL teams are struggling, to say the least, that gives us a 5-year average of 92 wins. For the Braves to achieve 92 wins, they need to go 56-22 for the second half. That is asking a lot, but it is not impossible.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

Not alot of bloggers today, everyone must still be on vacation from work… LOL.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

56-22 not impossible? You do realize how good the Tigers have been this year right?? And that there record right now is 56-28?? And the Braves are going to do better than that in the second half??? HA!

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

OUCH! On the cover of the ESPN.com homepage!… I’ve been waiting for the Northeast homers at ESPN to start dancin’ on the grave…

By michael

July 5, 2006 06:27 PM | Link to this

Forever now I’ve been thinking the Braves need to trade Giles for pitching help. Now I’ve changed my mind. Keep him. You can never have enough guys who give it everything they’ve got every single game. If the Braves don’t go to the playoffs this year, I’m ok with that. They don’t have to win every year. Some teams go years and years stinking up the place and making last place their home. Right Mets fans?

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Bob, you’re right about Boone. However, the guys I mentioned, and Boone, are all slight ‘head cases’ in my humble opinion (I think Boone was juiced bigtime and that caused his silly emotional outbursts down the road, but what do I know?). Anyway, I just doubt Giles is manipulating his play to orchestrate a trade out of the ATL, as someone early on suggested.

Regarding Frenchy, I may be citing his good stats to say I like him, but at the same time, you’re completely discounting them in favor of “obp.” OBP does not drive runs home, does not pick up a guy from 2nd with 2 out, does not hit a game-winning homer, doesn’t score from third on a fielder’s choice (like last night) and doesn’t make a great running catch in right.

I still think that by age 25 he’ll be taking 60 walks a year and will be one of the best in the game.

Somewhere between my view and yours’, I’m sure, lies the truth!

By Dr. Jay

July 5, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

I just took a look at that ESPN article, and I gotta say it could have been worse. At least it’s not mean-spirited like I would assume from some at that network. Maybe we’re out of it this year, maybe we’re not. Let’s face it, nobody from the NL is likely to beat the AL representative in the World Series this year anyway…indeed the entire Senior Circuit is weak by comparison. So, let’s not panic. I just hope Schuerholz will have more patience than most of us, keep one eye on next year, and not make any forced moves which could strip the team of what could be a great next few years.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2006 07:05 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s foot injury isn’t nearly as bad as the one he had last year, and he’s planning to play every day through the break and then play a normal schedule after the break, barring setbacks.

Surgery isn’t being discussed this time, because there’s no tear in the tissue, no severe bruising of the “plantar plate” etc. Anyway, he’s playing and said he feels a lot better. Will have a cortisone shot only if necessary this weekend.

By hk

July 5, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this

jimmy,

… you made me laugh very hard with that one … I am most appreciative of your ‘toes’ counselling … but you know how often when one part of the body weakens, other parts pick up the slack ? … with my hip deal, the ‘toes’ have actually grown stronger and more intelligent, they are able to grip surfaces, sustain balance … Microsoft has recently anounced work on a ‘footpad’ for laptops, I’m quite excited, I think my ‘toes’ could do it !!!

… can’t stand it, once a piece of ‘nonsense’ gets in your head, it’s hard to shake … jimmy, if one becomes too fearful of ‘toe’ problems, it can poison one’s confidence … too much reliance on a ‘toe man’ can result in ‘toe man’ poisoning !!!

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 07:15 PM | Link to this

Calling it right now… Braves win 7-2 tonight… I’M CHUCK JAMES BIATCH!!!

By CITYofdecatur

July 5, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this

Please Please Please enough with Carl Crawford as leadoff he hits 100 pts less in the leadoff position.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

DOB Did you have a guy in mind in this article when you were talking about trading Giles for a lead-off man? And please just answer me this… Would you trade Hudson for Broxton (LAD) right now, straight up?

By JJMB

July 5, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

Giles is hitting better, but he is still a BIG part of the Braves being in last place. HOLY JEBUS, did you see the rack on the FOX sports gal interviewing Bobby!

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

$5 says this game gets rained out…

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

1,2,3 First inning… I’M CHUCK JAMES BIATCH!!!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this

just when jimmy smith was getting ready to call a toe truck for chipper jones he has a miraculous recovery! he is in the lineup and so far there is no evidence that he is wearing a big, red shoe. guess we will know when he comes to the plate.

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this

…Maybe 7-2 is not a big enough blow-out for this one…

By MEB

July 5, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this

5 runs so far in the first inning… I thought it was southern hospitality to spot the visitor a couple of runs. Go Braves!

By DonCoburleone

July 5, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

This blog is dead… GO BRAVES!

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 08:00 PM | Link to this

I’m liking the way tonight looking…….I think Chipper’s presence makes a big diffenrence.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this

chipper’s running good for bad toes. what a great start! renteria got ‘em going and they kept going. this is a different team when they get pitching. how will james handle a lead?

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this

Bob, regarding Frenchy and OBP: if Jeff had walked 10 more times this year… that’s roughly once more every 10 days (not a big number, in other words) his OBP would be about .315 and his BA .264. Neither is a HOF number, granted, but the national media wouldn’t be on his back. I just think OBP is way overrated except maybe for leadoff hitters.

By Woogidy

July 5, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

DOB, How is Davies coming along

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

Karl, you obviously are new to this blog if you believe I write rah-rah blogs on a daily basis. No one who covers the team regularly is more critical than I am, and if they are, I’d ask you to point them out to me.

I have made it clear time and again I think the NL East is out of reach for the Braves now, but as I said, I’m only pointing out that they believe they can still win the wild card if they play well the rest of the year. What exactly would you write here, that the season’s over and they might as well hang it up? Then what would you write the next day? And the next?

See, you’re an everything’s black-or-white guy, when sports, like the rest of the world, is actually more gray. It’s not all-or-nothing. They’re not winning the division one day, then out of it the next.

Besides, please add something of substance to the post or don’t bother writing, just read. It’s too easy to use an assumed name (Karl Malden’s good, though, being a Streets of San Francisco fan myself) and to take shots at the guy writing the blog. You contributed nothing.

By David O'Brien

July 5, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this

Bryan, I don’t want to download CDs at midnight on Monday and pay $9.99 for the, then burn them or rip them or whatever on my computer.

I’m old-school, dude. I want to walk into the store, look at the CD cover, listen to a few songs on the headphones at the listening station, then buy it and take it home, open the CD case, look at the lyrics and/or pictures in the case, etc.

For those of us who used to buy albums and dig the cover art, inside sleeve art, etc, it’s bad enough that we had to get used to the downsized packaging of CDs. But you’ll never convince me that it’s as enjoyable an experience listening to a downloaded CD without being able to read the lyrics, check out where the thing was recorded and when, who’s playing what instruments, who’s sitting in and providing guest vocals, etc.

Just different philosophies. I lke the artist’s entire presentation, the packaging and everything else. I don’t like downloading anything I don’t have to. The laptop’s for work and e-mailing. That’s it. I’m a dinosaur, I know. But a happy one.

Now, let’s find something to rah-rah about with the Braves, to p* off the bitter Karl Malden.

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

How bout the offensive explosion!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

I love all these singles. This small ball approach is paying off. Keep it up Braves!!

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

First, I’m a big Carl Crawford fan, and I mean big. But folks, he’s tried leadoff some for the Rays, and that hasn’t worked out too great. I do, however, think he would be good fit in ATL (just not leadoff), and would give the team some outfield insurance in case they can’t sign Andruw (and BTW I don’t think they’ll have any trouble finding a number with which both sides can live, but that’s another post).

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

Tuborg may not be the comfortable shoe that Carey and Sutton are, but he’s pretty good. I’m really appreciating his insights. If they could hire Simpson on, I’d be happy.

By Vol

July 5, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

Rah Rah!!!

First the Braves will clinch the division, then they will beat Italy in the World Cup because they are THAT GOOD.

Rah Rah!!!

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

jeez, DOB, wouldn’t YOU be bitter, too, if you had to deal with Michael Douglas every day at work???

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

There are 25 series left in this season. Cox likes to manage from one series to the next. If we win all the series, or at least sweep a handfull (Pirates, Giants) we can pull this off. Plus 3 of those series are against the Mets. That represents +/- 9 potential games in the standings.
There is still a shot at this thing.

AND THERE IT IS… every starter, save the pitcher, has an RBI.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Someone wrote earlier that the Braves will help the Cards end their recent slump…looks like that’s happening. 11-1 Braves in the 4th inning. Unless a massive blowup occurs, the Braves will win the series and be well on the way to a winning homestand.

By Vol

July 5, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

I guess Chuckie James’ weakness is he can’t hit. I can live with that.

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

Chuck James needs to work on his AB’s with runners on. That’s 6 guys! I’ll let it slide this time… he’s Chuck James B!tch!
GO BRAVES

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

Chuck’s chink, he’s a dink with the stick!

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

Wouldn’t it be great to hear 30,000 fans chanting “Chuck James, b***!” while the announcers tried to ignore it and talk over it? Damnit, 2 run homer.

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

Chipper is red hot right now.

By Calvin

July 5, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this

Who woke Chipper up?

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

Chipper getting hot while AJ’s on a slump is a good thing….mabey they can ping off one or another the rest of the year

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

hide the wives and daughters, I think those boys will be ten kinds of happy when they leave the park tonight. Just one of those nights when everybody gets well, but it sure is good to see.

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

AJ should be taken out……..10 run lead…..same with Chipper.

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

Oh by the way where’s the chipper bashers…….just wondering if they think he is still washed up. I still Dont think he’s a real homerun threat, or at least not what he used to be, but still can get the job done with doubles and singles.

By Calvin

July 5, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

I am sure Bobby will take both of them out after this half inning is over.

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this

Very strange that there has been no Homeruns…..

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

You take AJ when were losing big but when were winning bigger you keep him in….have to second guess bobby here

By Bob, journalist

July 5, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

MBATL, If you showed me a medical report saying that Boone wasn’t … I’d probably suggest that an investigation of the doctor was in order.

Giles is a different story … I wish he had a level swing but he gets his uniform dirty and I’d choose him for my side if we were picking teams out on the back forty … for baseball or fightin’.

My Frenchy remarks were not directed at any particular posts …. but primarily at the Radio and TV guys. I basically agree with your comments about him. I think he’s a great talent and accepting anything but the best from him requires some plate discipline on my part, especially at the dinnertable. He’s a special talent like Andruw Jones and Rafael Furcal.

He may just be the best raw talent to don an Atlanta uniform since Dixie Walker managed the Crackers … but I fear that to allow him to simply find his own way will deprive him of being all that he can be.

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

NSCoots, yeah, the numbers bear out what you’re saying about Crawford; but still, hitting leadoff, his obp is pretty high. Bobby likes to assign roles (as we have seen) and let guys work into them. I don’t know Crawford’s game all that well, but bet that handed the job, he could do it. He looks to me like a very good ballplayer, and affordable, but, who knows, you may be right… I’m basing my opinion just on numbers, not on seeing him play that much.

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

Let me ask you something: what is the big deal with calling everybody a b!itch? Is that just the latest ‘hot’ phrase on the street? Is it ‘cool’ to emulate street punks? Just asking; I honestly don’t know! It’s just a little difficult for me to imagine people wanting to imitate and glorify losers by using their vulgarities. Somebody help me out here!

Is this a great game tonight or what??

By Bob, journalist

July 5, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

10 Paul, averaging over 2 runs an inning exceeds even our expectations!

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

The 1st homerun comes from a rookie….lol…thats awesome

By Beachcomber

July 5, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

Assignment for Chuck James in side sessions and the offseason, develop a pitch to induce ground balls. Pitchers with his ground ball/fly ball ratios don’t last long unless they light up the gun at 96 or so. Maybe a visit to Dr. Glavine.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

elevation. it was elevation and it worked! a noted toe man alertly prescribed elevation and look what has happened! for more on this curative therapy you may consult:

Crevier-Denoix, N., Roosen, C., Dardillat, C., Pourcelot, P., Jerbi, H., Sanaa, M. and Denoix, J.-M. (2001) Effects of heel and toe elevation upon the digital joint angles in the standing horse.

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Crawford could PROBABLY hit leadoff and PROBABLY do well at the job, he’s just an oustanding talent. I guess my point was that, if there’s a trade to be made for a leadoff hitter, then Braves are unlikely to trade for a guy unused to hitting leadoff. That just puts them back where they were at spring training. That being said, I’d pay for the fireworks if they can trade for the guy.

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady: The phrase “Chuck James B!tch!” is a play off of a TV show, The Dave Chappel Show. In that show there is a sketch called Charlie Murphy’s True Hollywood Stories. Charlie Murphy recounts his day’s hanging with Rick James. About the only thing Rick James ever says is “I’m Rick James B!tch!”. It’s pretty funny. Kids love it out on the street. Makes ‘em all giggle.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

In all seriousness, I think it would take Hudson to land Carl Crawford. Worth it? Probably. Hudson isn’t winning us games and plus that $13 mill salary in 2006.

By Bob, journalist

July 5, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

My Lady, I hope that it isn’t but unfortunately, I wouldn’t be surprised if were self proclaimed … Rick James, now deceased, was a black junkie … popular entertainer, who made the vulgar expression famous.

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

Bob: Yes, 2+ runs an inning is more than I’d hoped. But honestly, how else could it be? This team has been living on the long ball to score. As soon as a game like this comes around they all see the benefits of walks and singles.
Only 5 strike outs, 2 by James! That’s a massive improvement.
This is the type of game for the hitters to build off of. Chuck, I’m excited he should get the win, but he does have a little work to do. There is always room for improvement. But I think this kid is going to be great!

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Thanks, TNPaul! :-)) Guess you had to be there, huh? :-))) I appreciate the enlightenment!

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

hi yo silver was also quiet popular and in much better taste. this team is playing better since the return of carolina lady.

By Woogidy

July 5, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

By the way, Crawford stole home tonight.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

Hmmmm. I think I’m on to something. Hudson for Crawford, then the D-Rays could trade him to the hughest bidder (i.e, Yankees) the same day.

By Calvin

July 5, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

glasshalfull, you mean for 07 not 06.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

Highest, not hughest

By Todd A

July 5, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this

Decided not to attend the game tonight due to the forecast.Looks like I missed a good ‘un…..fireworks to boot.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

I meant, ‘08. Hudson will earn around $6 mill next year before his “raise” in 2008. Sorry, Miller Lite and typing don’t mix.

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Evenin’, Journalist Bob! Thanks for the explanation. I never saw that show - kinda obvious, huh?? I’m afraid that much of what passes for ‘humor’ on TV these days isn’t very appealing to me; I just don’t find it funny. Don’t watch much TV at all, now that I think about it, other than the Braves and 2 or 3 others.

Bob, let me take a moment to tell you how much I appreciate your kind comments while I was in the hospital! A Nobody (my cousin’s husband) printed out many of them and brought them to me. So humbling! Thank you! :-))

When was the last time we saw the Braves in a game like this one? big grin here

By Todd A

July 5, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this

Francoeur has walked seven times?I must have missed the last three or four then.

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

Lady, please know that Bob spoke for a lot us (as usual, with more eloquence!) re your abscence. I, too, believe your presence on the blog is probably at least part of the reason for the Braves’ turnaround!

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

Would any of you trade Salty and Hudson for Crawford….cuz I think thats what it would take…..I would if were up to me.

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

Hi, cousin Jimmy! Thank you, sir! How was the BBQ? Being on the DL these days, I did nothing - and actually enjoyed it for a change!

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this

Lots of upside to Crawford; he’s young, relatively cheap, fast, and would be around for a few years before being lured away by the Yankees during free agency (anyone ever notice how players come to the Braves and have great years only to go to the Yankees? It’s like we’re their AAA team).

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this

Hey, NCScoots! You’re really kind and I mean it when I say I appreciate it - ‘cause I do! Are you a fellow TarHeel?

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this

Salty is not living up to his mega-prospect status. Remember Betemit was the top dawg for a few seasons, but couldn’t put it together…I think he made the roster last year because he was out of options; he did great, don’t get me wrong, but we may be waiting for YEARS for Salty and wind up with a bench guy once he makes the club.

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

you bet, though not a native. been here so long now though that I feel I could claim nativity!

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

Billy, I think I’d do that deal. So much upside on the money side, and we’ve got pitching coming along…

Glass Half Full: who have the Yanks taken from us? Sheffield, whom we never should’ve paid; Jared Wright…okay. Farnsorth? Stanton? I guess I may be forgetting someone but don’t see where they’ve taken so much from us.

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this

What really make’s me feel good about this game is it’s against one of the best teams in the NL. We were able to handliy beat what many consider the proposed NL repersentive in the World Series this year. It’s an uphill battle but I think were defenitly in the wild card. Wonder what other clubs will say after this series.

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

NCScoots, what part of the state? I’m on the SE coast.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

And that’s the problem with catchers…you can’t wait forever for them to break-in. A 27 year old rookie catcher (I know Salty isn’t 27 yet, BTW) is like a 32 year old outfielder with bad knees).

By Todd A

July 5, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

Also Chris Hammond,who had a career season in Atlanta before taking the bucks from the Yanks.he didn’t last long in NY.

By Todd A

July 5, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

Also Chris Hammond,who had a career season in Atlanta before taking the bucks from the Yanks.He didn’t last long in NY.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

To be continued MBATL…soon all of our favorite Braves will be wearing pinstripes once we can’t afford them. Oh, don’t forget Nick Green in a round-about sort of way.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

carolina lady, the hartebeest is a tough animal to barbecue. first, he did not wish to cooperate. second, he would not stay in the marinade. lastly, hartebeests are tough to chew. instead, journalist tried something known as sousemeat that jimmy smith read about on the blog. afterwards jimmy smith did not feel so good and that is why journalist has been so easy on dob today. now, how did bob do with his barbecue? the souse is a difficult animal to barbecue as well. toe health on this team seems to be back to normal. this is very encouraging. they don’t have to hit the ball out to win. is anyone paying attention in the dugout?

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:33 PM | Link to this

I actually considered the Yanks a legitimate team before they began constructing their own personal All-Star team after losing the series to the D-Backs. The Yanks from 1996-2000 were damn near perfect. Forget the “curse of the Bambino.” How about the “curse of A-Rod?” who Boston was targeting. Lost 4 straight in 2004 ALCS. Eliminated in the first round last year. 2006? We’ll see.

By ncscoots

July 5, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

Lady, I’m found in the Sandhills, thanks for asking…

By Todd A

July 5, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

The Yankees need to be careful.Adding too many ex-Braves to their roster could be damaging to their playoff hopes.

By nathan

July 5, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Bob Journalist……I was out, so sorry for the late response.

I totally agree with you, if I was an opposing pitcher, I’d throw 4 straight balls WAY out of the strike zone to Francoeur, until he showed me he was willing to take 4 walks a game.

As far as the CRAP around him in the lineup. I didn’t mean that that helps or hurts him in any way. I was comparing him to Andruw when he came up. When Andruw came up, he had McGriff, Chipper, Klesko, Javy, Grissom, Lofton, and later Galaragga etc… There was NO pressure on Andruw to put up huge numbers offensively when he was young. It seems to me that everybody expects BIG things from Francoeur. As do I. Just not in his second year.

If we are still having this conversation in 3 seasons, then I’ll be worried. LOL

Sorry for the confusion on my point.

By Todd A

July 5, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

Those Yankees teams(‘96-2000) were comprised of mostly farm hands(Geter,Rivera,Williams),and low level free agent types(Brosius,O’Neil).A perfect winning combo.

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, the souse does much better broiled. There are some here on the property I can send to you if you’d like.

I sure did enjoy that game tonight! Such a relief from - well, let’s just leave it there, shall we? :-) No need to revisit misery! Obviously, all the toes are in proper alignment with the moon and stars!

By nathan

July 5, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

BTW…..calling the surrounding lineup around Frenchy, wasn’t directed at Renteria and or McCann. And obviously (at least temporarily) Chipper and Giles have turned it up a notch. If that continues, the lineup should roll for a while.

By crap, I meant, no other consistant RBI threats in the middle of the order. For instance, if Francoeur would have been called up in 1996 like Andruw, he more than likely would’ve hit 8th in the order that year, and probably 1997.

But with this lineup, Francoer is NEEDED to produce with Chippers problems and Andruw as the only other RBI guy.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

I know there are plenty of BC haters out there, but tonight when they showed the graphic about managers with the most wins, I was wondering how high Bobby might rank if he hadn’t been a GM for 4 and a half years.

By TennesseePaul

July 5, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

Francoeur got a walk tonight. It’s happening!
Another good showing from the club. A series win as well! We need to keep this up. The Reds have been in a rut recently. Now is the time to strike. A series win/sweep would do wonders for this team.

GO BRAVES

By MBATL

July 5, 2006 10:48 PM | Link to this

GHF, not sure just how to take you (not that it matters) … but I agree, the Yanks of the late ‘90’s were really great teams. I don’t think you can blame A-rod, but maybe the A-rod mentality that GS adopted.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

Oh, I’m not blaming A-Rod. I just think it would be hilarious if the Yanks had to wait 80 years for another title like Boston did.

By hk

July 5, 2006 10:55 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady,

… feel like sit com writers/producers are not our friends, have done much damage to us all over the last half century …

… got to show this, it has changed so fast … look at the convergence of reliever and starter era, I’ve never seen anything like it … a month ago there was almost a run per game difference, now almost equal !!! (.467 vs .462) …. and batting avg has jumped up fom .260 to .265, highest in a long time … looks like a turnaround to me !!!

click here for curves

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

I think ultimately A-Rod will pass Hank Aaron, but he will no longer be a Yankee by that point.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 5, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

thank you, carolina lady, but jimmy smith will be having no more sousemeat. there is not enough cheese in atlanta to make a bowl of sousemeat taste good. bob was exaggerating. bet he didn’t even cook a souse - was just tricking jimmy smith. true, the ice cream and watermelon made things better but the damage was done with the first bite of souse. if you have them in your yard you should break out the bb gun again. braves win. all is well.

By Tomahawkin

July 5, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Yeaaahhhh Beating the Cards 2 of 3 is too Sweet….!

And Reeksma’s Done 4 da year, and hopefully as a Brave, Good Rittens….The Blow-pen Is scarred because of you and Kolb….

A surprise trade from j.s. And we begin a worst to first hostile takeover on da NL East

Go Braves, This is da best news of da year!!!, Time to whip out the ScrewDrivers…

By Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

dont think the divison is in reach realistically….set our sight on one game at a time and the wild card

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Let’s just get to .500. Then the fun will begin.

By The Baseball Fan Also Known as Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this

Can anyone think of a realistic trade the Braves may make?

By Tomahawkin

July 5, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this

Damn!!! Where are all da braves fans at???On vacation or something, The names on dis blog are a whole lot different than at the start of the year, Time to win the series against Cincy and end the shytty first half on a good note, Damn! I’m so glad Reeksma done…

By Tomahawkin

July 5, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

I was talking to my boy last nite (who is a rangers fan) about trading 4 CoCo Cordero, Because when the game is on da line I don’t SoSa is gonna get it done…

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this

I’m tellin’ ya, Hudson for Crawford. Of course, we’d probably have to give up another pitching prospect, but hey, what the hell?

By Carolina Lady

July 5, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

HK, those are indeed interesting graphs! How I hope the trend continues!! Thanks MUCH for posting them for us!

Jimmy, I’m so sorry the souse didn’t go well for you! They are about a 1000 yards from the house so they’re OK out there. They don’t hurt anything, they just don’t smell very good.

Time for zzzzzzzzz. Y’all have a good night!

By The Baseball Fan Also Known as Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this

Its gonna take alot more than a struggling pitcher even if its hudson…

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

Like I said earlier, Hudson to D-rays for Crawford, then they could trade him to teams in desperate need of starting pitching…like the Yankees.

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

Hudson’s reputation preceeds (sp?) his actual performance, so he’s definite trade bait.

By Chop Chop

July 5, 2006 11:22 PM | Link to this

God, I hate those graphs, hk. Even so, keep posting them. They’re informative to some…and good for a laugh to others.

Nice to see the Braves beat the Cards two out of three. I hate the Cards, Dodgers and Yankees and any victories over those teams always taste a little sweeter.

By Bob, journalist

July 5, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this

My Lady,

I saw Rick James a couple of times on TV but never saw the show to which Tennessee Paul referred. Much of the humor I enjoy comes from the works of The Bard, Sam Clemmens, Henry Fielding, Thorne Smith and folks like that.

I grew up listening to wonderful radio shows including a lot of comedies but the Braves and “Everybody Loves Raymond” are the only comedy acts I follow on TV these days. Seriously, I think they’re a good group … 14-4 who oculd ask for anything more?!

Two movies I found to be full of good humor were “Driving Miss Daisy” and “O’ Brother Where Art Thou?”.

I’ve noted on more than one occassion that “A Nobody” is a “Somebody” and we’re all indebted to him for his stewardship!

Seems like old times … you’re like a breath of fresh air … this game was fun … and we did good!

By Tomahawkin

July 5, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

I co-sign on dat on Chop-Chop, I live in Bentonville, AR Which is full of bandwagon Cardinal fans, so I can’t stand that team either, but Add the Mutts and Phillies to that list as well…

By Glass Half Full

July 5, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

Which teams do fans in Nebraska root for? How about Utah, Montana, and Wyoming?

By hk

July 5, 2006 11:39 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

… well, I don’t think you’re going to have to eat your hat after all … :))

By The Baseball Fan Also Known as Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB….who’s Jeff Mccan some new hot prospect the Braves called up?

Just messing with ya….everyone allowed a goof.

By The Baseball Fan Also Known as Billy (TBFNB)

July 5, 2006 11:58 PM | Link to this

If anyone’s interested Jeff Weaver went to the cards

By Tomahawkin

July 6, 2006 12:04 AM | Link to this

Heard about that an hour ago… I thought about bringing it up, but I don’t think anyone would have cared…

BTW The man is definitely overpaid…

By hk

July 6, 2006 12:04 AM | Link to this

Jack Benny, Burns and Allen, Red Skelton, wonderful …

By David O'Brien

July 6, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I couldn’t believe, when I got back from clubhouse to do my rewrite, that a. I had written Jeff McCann _ in same paragraph as Jeff Francoeur to boot, and b. that no one on my desk had caught the mistake.

Ultimately, one person’s name is on the mistake, though. So it’s mine. At least it was so obvious, most people will just laugh (I hope).

By The Baseball Fan Also Known as Billy (TBFNB)

July 6, 2006 12:33 AM | Link to this

Most fans will prob just read over….of course you always have the anal retentitive one’s thats gonna blast ya no matter what.

By Bob, journalist

July 6, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this

Jimmy, Scoots, Paul, My Lady, MBATL, Nathan, Billy, HK, everyone … thanks for a wonderful collection of posts … good humor combined with logic, personal insights, and information … plus good solid baseball … today was a very good day.

Jimmy, you must have gotten into some bad sousemeat … was it the light or the dark meat that you tried? The first time that my friend from Kenya visited us, he would always have the same thing I did, at home, and whenever we went out to eat … he told my wife that I always made excellent choices except buttermilk, Country Ham and Sousemeat.

I just got notified that my servers in Chattanooge were damaged during last night’s storm … so you’re all charged with the responsibility of stripping the gears of the Red Machine … while I go and inspect the damage and see what is to be done.

Seems like I’ve always had an interest in North Carolina because of Georgia Tech athletics, golf, fishing, furniture and family tree … but, it’s their “speed traps” I remember most … they seemed worse than those in South Georgia … so I always drove slow.

The Highway Patrol on the “Orlando - Miami” tollroad were always the nicest … I was once stopped for doing 87 … I told the trooper that the reason that I was speeding was that I saw I was running out of gas and wanted to get to the next service station as quickly as possible. He laughed and then gave me a police escort to the service station … where he wrote me out a ticket.

Strange how your mind works … the above antedote came to mind as I was thinking of the folks on this blog from North Carolina … maybe it’s something in the water.

By Head Coach

July 6, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this

Here come the Reds and we all get to see what a real leadoff hitter looks like in Ryan Freel. A 2-2 split would be a realistic goal and 3-1 series win would really suprise me. You folks are smoking happy weed , pass me some , lol.

By Bob, journalist

July 6, 2006 01:48 AM | Link to this

Jimmy, one last thought … I hope that you didn’t try mixing the ice cream with the sousemeat … Sousemeat Floats aren’t very good!

I can remember back in 1962 … telling a waitress in Atlanta how different … and how much better … was German Beer. I especially liked the “Bacon Beer” and some of local, village brews. Anyway, I was laying it on thick … not like the straightforward, honest, succinct journalist I am today … and told her that the most popular desert in Germany was the “Beer Float” … with “county fair” type competitions being held each year during the Oktoberfest in München.

All twelve cylinders were running smooth … until I got the check, together with my pitard … a German Beer Float!

It was the worst thing I ever tasted … but, I ate it all … and then told one last lie!

By Head Coach

July 6, 2006 06:17 AM | Link to this

Ive heard and seen a lot of talk and rumours concerning who will be traded before july 31st. Tim Hudson wont be one of those rumours and I’ll tell you why. If you look at the roster and Richmond you can see we have no pitching depth , none , nada , zilch , nothing. Thompson off the DL gives us five healthy starters and thats it until Davies is ready , assuming his surgically repaired hamstring heals properly. If Thomson is traded that leaves Cormier as our fifth starter until Davies is ready and God knows nobody wants too see Sosa back in the rotation along with a struggling Hudson and Thomson. Giles and Thomson are realistically the two guys who might be traded. Cross your fingers , Huddy is pitching tonight.

By Bryan

July 6, 2006 08:12 AM | Link to this

Preferences are preferences - having said that every bit of that information is encoded in each song or easily available through google. Not to mention, for new and up and coming acts - the money from a 9.99 iTunes purchase goes to them instead of the store/record company (I was talking to the Little County Giants about this). Plus, alot of downloaded cds come with extra tracks, making of videos, and all of the art in an electronic booklet.

Having said that - I just got the Vinyl “will the circle be unbroken” by the nitty gritty dirt band from Yo Lo Lo Records in Athens so … I know the power of paying for packaging and album art (not to mention the badasss sound of bluegrass on vinyl). MUSIC RECOMMENDATION So, have you heard of an old concept album called White Mansions. Its a Civil War county/rock concept album from the late 70’s staring Waylon Jennings and a few other folks. My dad figured out how to burn his records on CDs and he made a copy for me. It is AMAZING. Me and my friends have been listening to it non-stop for months. Its pretty hard to find - and as a CD you can only buy it packaged with a crappy “Jessie James” concept album (actually stars Cash - but its kinda silly).

Check that out before anything else.

Bryan

By Kent

July 6, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

Head Coach: I agree, Giles and Thompson might be traded.

I’m not sure what we would get in return for John Thompson at this point, but I guess anything would be better than nothing (as he is a free agent after this year).

Giles probably isn’t going anywhere. At least not until the offseason. Maybe if a deal comes along that includes a leadoff hitter, something might happen, but I doubt it. He’s starting to hit quite nicely, and I think they see him as part of their plans for a second half run.

I don’t think anyone of significance will be leaving Atlanta until the offseason. Come winter, Giles could be gone, Hudson could be gone. I guess that will largely depend on where Liberty Media decides to set the budget (if in fact they can ever complete the #@$%@#$% sale process).

By Kent

July 6, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

I thought the timing of Kurkjian’s column on ESPN.com was oddly timed. The Braves have really been coming around. Frankly, if Hudson gets his stuff together, this looks like a team that could easily eat up some ground in the standings in a hurry, and make a very real wild card run. Why wouldn’t that kind of article have been posted 2 weeks ago? Strange.

By Dirty Dawg

July 6, 2006 09:21 AM | Link to this

I think DOB’s reference to Jeff McCann is a bit Fraudian…if the real Jeff could show even half of the McCann Jeff’s patience and discipline at the plate, he would have been going to the All-Star Game as well. If Francouer doesn’t get smarter sooner at the plate, his will have been one of the true ‘flashes-in-the-pan’ stories.

By Kentavo

July 6, 2006 09:37 AM | Link to this

I bet if Bobby Cox fined Frenchy every time he swung when he’s 2-0, 3-1, and 2-1, he’d learn to be more patient.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 6, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

much good journalism today from esteemed beat writer dob. he has explored toes and the toe injury of chipper jones. he has inquired as to chipper jones’ footwear and has named mizuno as the maker of his special shoes. he has revealed chipper jones’ self-admission of having “bad feet”. in the process he has revealed ugly toe problems suffered by tim hudson. does this surprise anyone? yes, tim hudson has toe issues! this revelation may explain hudson’s recent pitching performances and may also result in an elusive wurlitzer prize for dob. this is stuff of ralph mcgill, jack nelson, and eugene patterson. now, dob must consider if the cowboy boot is a contributor to the chipper jones’ bunion and toe maladies. this done, and the prize will be his. the toe is not to be trifled with. journalist out.

By Brent

July 6, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

SWEEP THE REDS!

Come on, Tim Hudson! Whatta ya got?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 6, 2006 09:49 AM | Link to this

tim hudson has got bad toes.

By journalist jimmy smith doing commentary

July 6, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

commentary - - - this season could turn on a toe. that’s right, a toe. the toe of chipper jones must remeain healthy so that a potent bat may remain in the lineup. this bat is needed for a second half run. now, we learn that the toe of ace pitcher tim hudson is ailing. this toe must also return to good health so that the pitcher can turn around his season. during the all-star break the best toe man in the country should be summoned to cure these toes.

elevation plays a curative role in toe illness but elevation can do only so much. toe splints do not exist and toe caps fall off. a good toe man will know what to do. perhaps he will save the season for our atlanta braves. the toe is not to be trifled with.

By Max

July 6, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

I hope John Schuerholz reads this blog.Hey let’s get Carl Crawford!!!.Offer Tampa Bay Big John Thomson,Ryan Langerhans and a prospect oh let’s say catcher Brian Pena or Tony Pena jr.Remember Julio Lugo will become a free-agent after this year and he’ll be ready to step-up.!!

By dylan

July 6, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

I remember saying one offseason the braves wont trade Justice. I remember saying another there is no way we let Glavine get away. My point is to assume we wont get rid of hudson because we lack depth at richmond is a mistake. I would think Hudson if he were dealt would be dealt for a young triple or double a pitcher which would solve the no pitchers at richmond problem.Never rule anything out with Schuerholz he very well might deal anyone on this team. Hudson makes some sense if we fall further out he isnt young hasnt performed like the number one starter we thought he would be and he is getting paid number one type money, my bet is if someone in the thick of the pennant race decided Hudson was the extra piece they needed they would overpay for him and those are deals that you just cant turn down look at the article and worst trade deadline moves on cnn/si you will see a list of teams that gave up too many good prospects for one mediocre peice that usually didnt fit the puzzle I wouldnt mind the braves being on the right said of one of those deals again.

By Kent

July 6, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

Max: What you’re proposing the Braves offer in return for Crawford wouldn’t get it done. It wouldn’t even come close to getting it done. The D-Rays aren’t interested in John Thompson. All Ryan Langerhanz has proven so far is that he is a .240 major league hitter… not much trade value there either.

Brian Pena is probably attractive to teams in the market for a good catching prospect, but one prospect wouldn’t be enough to get that done.

We would likely have to give them one of our top young talents, either on the farm or at the major league level (Betemit or Saltalamachia) in addition to someone like Brian Pena, + a couple of smaller pieces to sweeten the pot (Langerhanz, etc.) At the least, we would have to offer a deal like that for them to even consider it.

If Carl Crawford were a free agent at the end of this or next season, the asking price (in talent) for Crawford might be more reasonable, but he’s not all that close to free agency.

Carl Crawford is a low-cost/high production player, and that’s what payroll conscious teams like the D-Rays want. So they’re in no hurry to deal Crawford. Any team that wants him would have to really put a lot on the table in return.

By Lew

July 6, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

Kent, you’re absolutely right-During the spring when the Braves tried for Baez from the Rays, they reportedly wanted either McCann or Davies AND Saltalamacchia. It is hardly a wonder that JS passed. Does anyone think the price tag would be much less for Crawford at the trade deadline. Crawford won’t be playing for the Braves. Fans need to realize that Langerhans is essentially a fourth outfielder. Thomson has damn little value at the moment. I’m still not convinced that LaRoche is a waste. You can’t have a superstar at every position with an $80 million payroll. LaRoche is good for 20+HR and 80-90 RBI. He is good defensively (the one lapse notwithstanding) and you just have to get over the fasct that he won’t hit .300. The only real trade value we have right now is Hudson and Giles. If we think we have a definite shot at the playoffs, the keep them. If not, which is really more probable, trade them. There is value to be received in return and a savings of $11million next year. I’m not sure there is a good leadoff hitter available for Giles, as DOB suggests. Hudson will bring good prospects at the deadline because of his reputation and teams in contention pay a much higher price at the deadline. One thing everyone needs to realize during this trade season, a quick fix for this year is NOT the way to go. The chances of us competing in ameaningful way for the division are almost non-existent. As far as the Wild Card, there is a chance, but as we discussed yesterday, I’m waiting for a ten game streak or a 12-2 run before I’ll even consider the possibility. I know we’ve been playing better and I am encouraged, especially the bullpen over the past 2 weeks. In 12 games they have given up 6 ER in 42 innings. That’s about a 1.3 ERA in a significant time frame. However, we are only 7-5 in that stretch and that won’t git er done.

By Max

July 6, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

You guys that are talking about trade Hudson away are totally crazy!.Tim Hudson like it or not is our ACE.Yes he is struggling but that’s our number #1.Every pitcher goes threw there funk it just happens to be that he choose the wrong time to pitch this bad.it seems ya have forgotten all the good games he’s pitched in .the 1-0 against Clemens and game 7 last year before Farnsworth just melted on us.Hudson i assure you is staying put giles is getting traded for bullpen help.Someone mention Francisco Cordero from texas,that would be good,the only problem with that is Cordero makes more money then Giles and that would be adding salary.But in the other hand $1 or 2 million won’t hurt we still have about $6 million saved from Chipper re-structuring contract and Hampton insurence claim.Go Braves!!!!

By Max

July 6, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

Kent:you sound right!we would love Crawford maybe add kyle Davies and Tony Pena jr.

By Lew

July 6, 2006 10:47 AM | Link to this

Max, right now Hudson IS NOT our ace, Smoltz is. Since coming to Atlanta he has underachieved and only shown small glimpses of being the ace we THOUGHT we signed. That being said, at the moment, the suggestion to trade Hudson has nothing to do with his performance. He does have great trade value for young talent which is what the Braves really need. We are not going to win much this year without a huge winning streak. Get real, it ain’t gonna happen. Next year, however, Hampton returns and like it or not he will pitch for us (I’m pretty certain we will be quite pleased with his performance. Also, with the emergence of Horacio and James and the return of Davies, Hudson is worth more for what he can bring in return and he is not worth the 13 million we owe him after next year. His value NOW is high. It may be more than he can provide us with his arm.

By Ike

July 6, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

SOMEONE please answer this… WHY haven’t we tried Renteria at leadoff?? Thats where he hit when he was on the Cardinals and they won the NL in 2004! Why is this not even being discussed. It makes no sense to me that there are “absolutely no other leadoff options”. Switch giles and renteria in the order! why not?

By Lew

July 6, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this

Max, another note on Hudson. Since joining the Braves he has gone 20-17 with an ERA over 4 runs per game. In that same time, Smoltz has gone 19-12 with an ERA of about 3.3 and the relief core has blown 12 games he left with the lead. If only half of those blown saves had been converted, his record would be 25-12. Absolutely no comparison. Hudson is not the ace.

By Kentavo

July 6, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this

Okay, where are the Chipper bashers? Right now Chip’s batting .301, with 10 dingers and 46 rbis. I’d take that anytime for the first half of the season. He’s in the top six at his position, trailing only Sanchez (Pitt.), Cabrera, Rolen, Wright and Atkins (who has similar numbers with an advantage by playing at Coors Field).

Okay - where are youuuuuuuuuuuuuu??

By BB

July 6, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

Renteria wasn’t a leadoff hitter with the Cardinals. According to si.com, he has 64 career at-bats as a leadoff hitter. And since 2002, he has 2 at-bats as the lead-off hitter.

By Glass Half Full

July 6, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

The next 7 games could be huge. The Reds are currently .5 out of the wild card and there are 3 teams tied for 1st in the West, which also ties them for the wild card. San Diego is one of those teams and we play them right after the break. Barring another June swoon, these games could be very profitable.

By Matt M

July 6, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

Hey Lew, Huddy is our #1 pitcher in our rotation, which means he is our ace, even though he isn’t pitching like it. He will come around.

By Brent

July 6, 2006 11:29 AM | Link to this

Matt M,

Charlie Liebrandt was #1 in our rotation in 1991.

Was he our ace?

By ck

July 6, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this

Just a quick prediction…

Braves win each of their series against all wildcard contenders and go 3 of 5 against remaining teams in NL and win the wildcard.

They are too good of a team to stay out of the race and they are starting to show that they can and will win enough to get in the postseason…

By Matt M

July 6, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

Apparently he was Brent, with 3 young pitchers (Smoltz, Glavine, Avery) I wouldn’t doubt it. Usually your #1 is your ace.

By Kent

July 6, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

Huddy was solid for us last season. he finished with 14 wins and an ERA around 3.50. Had the bullpen done its job to any reasonable degree, Hudson would have won 17 or 18 games for us last year. That’s pretty good in my book. And we don’t even need to talk about everything he accomplished up to that point.

The is year is a different story. He has been, as Nacho libre would say, “estinky”. But again, no reason to sell all of your Tim Hudson stock just yet. I don’t think you could find anyone in major league baseball willing to bet you a $20 that Huddy will continue pitching like this. He will come around. Will he ever be CY Young award contender for the Braves? Don’t know. But he will be solid.

If Hudson is traded, it wouldn’t be until the offseason. The Braves think they have a shot at the NL wild card (becasue they do), and they will need Hudson to make any such run. Next year when Hampton is back in the fold, Hudson may be semi-expendable with Smoltz and all the other young talent in the rotation as well.

Hudson will be a Braves for the rest of the season. Let’s all just hope that he can get it turned around.

By Brent

July 6, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

Matt,

I at least see that your softening your position by saying that “usually your #1 is your ace.”

There are a handful of reasons that a guy can be the #1 pitcher.

But, if he fails to perform, he is no longer the ace, even if he was supposed to be.

There’s a reason why Charlie Leibrandt, our #1 starter in April 1991, was serving up gopher balls in relief by October - he was no longer our ace.

Right now, Hudson isn’t our ace. Hopefully, he will soon return to that status. But right now, nothing, other than his slot in the rotation (which becomes meaningless after a few weeks anyway), indicates that he is our top pitcher.

By TennesseePaul

July 6, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

As of the last few weeks, HoRam would be the Ace. That kid looks like he is back for good! This pleases me. Chuck James is looking solid. I certainly hope Davies can come back from his injury and be real good. We have the makings of another Big 3, and this time, all three are from our farm system.

I’m liking the future this club has. We have the stock to keep making a push for another 4 years or more.

As to the Reds and this series… The Braves can win it. It is totally within reach of this team to take 3 of 4 or sweep this Reds. If we can win this opener, it’ll be ours. Hudson has to actually pitch. Pitch well. And pitch more than 3 innings. I’d love to see another CG from the guy. And I’d love to see these bats continue what they did yesterday.

GO BRAVES

By Jim

July 6, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

For all the McDowell bashers

If the improvement in the bullpen continues, should Roger receive some of the credit? One can realistically say that a coach’s (or teacher’s) impact cannot be expected to be seen immediately but only over time. Should Roger be given credit for the improvement this year in HoRam?

The real impact of McDowell may be determined next year when we see if the old sinkerballer can add a good two seam sinker to CJ’s repertoire (and improve his breaking ball). This is not something that can necessarily be done “on the fly” during the season, but can be worked on during the off season and in spring training. If this happens we will have our new number 1 starter.

By Glass Half Full

July 6, 2006 12:11 PM | Link to this

I think McDowell will become a very good pitching coach. He just stepped into a difficult situation (replacing Leo and not really having the “arms” to work with).

By Brent

July 6, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

Jim,

Of course Roger should get some of the credit if the bullpen continues to improve.

Just like I would’ve given Leo credit if he could’ve turned this rag-tag bunch around.

In fact, if the bullpen continues to perform well, then it could be argued that as much of the blame for the early season struggles could go to Bobby, for continuing to send Reitsma & Remlinger out there time and time again.

But, this is all still wait and see …

By David O'Brien

July 6, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, thought you’d dig that epic rumination on Chipper’s toes. Beautiful, huh? (actually, not so beautiful. but i can’t talk. i’ve got that nasty fungus crap under one big toe, you know the stuff you need prescribed medication or to cure, advertised on TV with that commercial that features animated little critters climbing under toes? yeah, that stuff. i’ve had it for years, but i wanted to let my toe grow to about a quarter-inch thick before getting something done.)

Bryan, thanks a TON for the rec on the Waylon project. that sounds outstanding. now i’ve got to get my hands on a copy. will try to do that today, and also am going to get the Cash CD today.

Hey, just picked up our fine fishwrap this morning and _ MERCY MERCY _ Tom Waits is coming to the Tabernacle!!!! Aug. 1, which happens to be the start of Pittsburgh trip I don’t have to make. My butt will be in a seat at the Waits show, absolutely no doubt. Even though tix are outrageous ($60-65), I’m not missing that.

Later

By Jim

July 6, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

How many of Francouer’s walks have been intentional? Does anyone have the number of unintentional walks versus hit by a pitch? Frenchy may be the first hitter in memory to have more HBP than unintentional walks in a season.

Notice this year that Reyes, who once had Francouer like impatience, has dramatically increased his walk total and his average and OBP have improved correspondingly. Maybe it will take Jeff 3 years also to become a complete major league player.

Appropos — Do the Braves have a take sign? Francouer should be made to check the 3B coach every time he has a 2-0 or 3-1 count to see if he has a take sign. If the pitcher has control like Greg Maddux, let him hit; but if it is Russ Ortiz (and you are already losing 4-1) MAKE him take a pitch!

By David O'Brien

July 6, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this

I should be clear: My toe NAIL, not under my toe. The fungus crap, I’m talking about. I have no fungus under my toe. It’s perfectly clean and I practice very sound hygiene. Just the thickening of the toe NAIL that’s nasty, not the toe.

OK, Jimmy, wanted to clarify. Because after reading my own post, i realized it sounded even more gross than it actually is.

Oh, and I really believe Roger McDowell will be a solid pitching coach. I think we’ll be able to tell a lot more from results in second half, but even more from results after Braves have fewer journeymen and castoffs on their pitching staff, which fans can only hope will be the case by next season if not sooner.

One other thing: Chipper. How about his little resurgence here? NL Player of Week, and these stats updated after last night’s game: He has hit .329 since June 8 and .500 (17-for-34) with four doubles, three homers and 11 RBIs in his past nine games, including his first pinch-hit homer Sunday and a two-run double Wednesday.

By DonCoburleone

July 6, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

Hudson is NOT our Ace, and he absolutely will give us the most in return. I listed the teams who would want (and probably over-pay for him)in a previous blog. I really believe the two teams who would absolutely over-pay for him are the Dodgers and the Rangers(and the Yankees, but they have nobody the Braves would want). The problem with the Dodgers is they don’t have much in the bullpen (barring a Gagne comeback, ha) and I don’t think they’d be too eager to give away their best reliever (Broxton - 22 year old dominant closer in the making). There really is not alot of good bullpen guys out there…

By Carolina Lady

July 6, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

DOB, when I read your article this morning, I just had to laugh! I knew to whom it was directed and appreciated it even more. Edifying, interestng, and funny (if one knew the background)! Bouquets to you! :-))

By Question?

July 6, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

Any chance Barry will move into rotation? When will Stockman be back and what do the Braves plan to do with him? Why aren’t the Braves that high on Kevin Barry?

By DonCoburleone

July 6, 2006 01:00 PM | Link to this

I’ll give some credit to McDowell for this recent turnaround. But I (honestly) give more credit to REITSMA being out of the equation. I mean, talk about an anchor that was drowning a team. But now he’s out for the season and hopefully out of the Braves organization for good! I know I know, he’s a really “good guy”. Well since that’s the case, I’ve got a perfect job for him where he’ll still be in the public’s eye - GROCERY BAGGER! P** OFF REEKSMA!

By Lew

July 6, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

MattM-You can call Hudson the ace if you want, but you’re only playing word games. The stats don’t lie. He may very well turn things around. I don’ disagree with you on this point. However, he still has the most value on the trading block. He is affordable next year, but after that his salary more than doubles. He has not pitched anywhere near what he did in the AL and we have a large amount of $$ tied up in him. If we have a bona fide chance to make it into the playoffs and then advance for a change, I would say keeping him would be the best bet. I really don’t give much for our chances this year unless we go on a HUGE winning streak, much less advancing when we haven’t been able to do it with far superior teams. We have given up A LOT of young talent the past few years for quick fixes that didn’t get us past the division series. Let’s not do it again. Don’t give up any more young players for someone who will leave shortly after. For all of those who have proposed any number of really insane trades to obtain Carl Crawford-Do you realize he is a number 2 hitter, not leadoff? Not to mention we wouldn’t want to pay the absurd price. Look at our REAL needs. The reason we are in this position is not 1. Bobby Cox. He is not a donkey.2. Not John Scheurholz. He hasn’t lost his magic or his mind.3. The starting pitching 4. No productive leadoff hitter. 5. No productive left fielder. THINK! We are where we are because the bullpen was the worst I have ever seen. This is what needs attention. It is pretty obvious that we are not going to be able to find any relievers this year at a payable price who will get us to playoff Valhalla. Trade the pieces who will bring you return value. This is Giles and Hudson. Not Thomson, not Sosa, not Langerhans or Thorman or LaRoche. Get rid of Giles and Hudson for a good return and next year, with the departure of our non=producing free agents, we have $21 million dollars to find a bullpen and a leadoff man.

By DonCoburleone

July 6, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

DOB I’ve had the same toe-nail fungus. Pretty gross isn’t it? Have you ever been clipping your toenails and caught a whiff of what that cheese under there smells like? It’s brutal… But you have to get a prescription to get rid of it, some heavy duty drug. I had to take a blood test before I started taking it and then once a month for 6 months until it cleared up. So, I wish you the best of luck with that DOB.

By DonCoburleone

July 6, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

AMEN LEW, couldn’t have put it better myself!

By hk

July 6, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

… first thought when I read your sentiments about my charts last night was (yeah, I bet he’s not alone) … I have this program that tells who clicks on what on my website, shows up seconds afterwards … first chart I ever posted here I got maybe 75 visits in the next 24 hours, thought (wow !) … since then it’s been running maybe 20-30, I interpretted that as meaning 2/3 of the bloggers were saying (oh no, not another one) .. :)

… reflecting on it over night, I enjoy doing it so much, don’t know if I can stop … it occurred that maybe I could do something to make them more palatable … maybe could you grade me out on the thing ?? … as an example, here’s my guess as to what you would say, on a zero to 100 scale …

Content-70

Thought Processes-40

Conclusions-20

… maybe too many graphs? too many numbers? too cluttered? … boring ???

… I’ve been doing this kind of stuff in my business for years and years, have had others say they hate it, no problem …

Journalist Bob,

… for years and years we made an annual auto trip up to see my folks up in Connecticut … the only speeding tickets I ever got were in North Carolina !!

By Kent

July 6, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

Lew: “I really don’t give much for our chances this year unless we go on a HUGE winning streak”

Your pessimism in regard to this Braves team continues to confound me. I say that only because you are one of the more thoughtful and articulate people to post on these blogs. So I keep thinking surely you can see beyond the surface, and recognize the potential of this team.

I am not one to look through rose colored windows. I am will willing to face reality. But it just so happens that the reality is this:

Assuming Hudson doesn’t continue to pitch this badly (and I am assuming that), when Huddy comes around, the Braves will have the best rotation in the NL.

Chipper and Gilly are finally coming around, and the offense as a whole has followed right along.

The bullpen has stabilized.

The reality is that the Braves are a better team right now than any of the teams currently standing between them and 1st place in the wild card hunt. I would find the 8 game deficit disconcerting if the competition were anything to write home about… but the Cincinnati Reds are in 1st place for the wild card. THE CINCINNATI REDS FOR CRYIN’ OUT LOUD!!!!! And you don’t give us much of a chance??????

They may not win it, but they will be in the thick of the wild card race come September. Bank on it.

By Big Mac

July 6, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

Someone mentioned what the braves would have to do in the second half to win 92 games this year… the reds would have to win 46 games (if they split the series with the Braves) in the second half to have 92 wins as well… while there’s a big difference between 58 and 44 I don’t think it will come to that… we are only 8 games back… that’s surely not insurmountable. We came from that far back in 2001 to win the division. Anyway… that’s my two cents- maybe I’m overly optimistic