Braves

By Brian

July 10, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

magnificent blog

By PA Bravefan

July 10, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

It is a bad time, but it isn’t like we didn’t know it was coming. All should try to relax, and stay focused on the positive energy that has started to flow.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

journalist guy curtright has outdone himself with today’s blog. journalist jimmy smith will take this blog in a different direction … what is to be done with john thomson and what should the rotation look like after the all-star break? what is the word on davies? is barry a starter? what about horacio - which is the real horacio? pitching and defense made the braves for many years - can they get the pitching they need to make a run in the second half?

By ZB Pike

July 10, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

I think they needed the motivation of the break as a mini-goal. I don’t think they will be affected by the time off. Personally, I believe if they keep up the same mindset of just trying to win the series they are playing, things will work out.
Is it me, or does it also seem that everyone is laying off of the first pitch a lot more?? Has this started resulting in double digit hits for us?? HMMMM Thoughts?

By VABrave

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

There is really very little pitching out there to be had. From the little that we have seen from Barry, he looks better than thompson. Give him a shot. I just pray that Bobby doesn’t let Sosa try and close any more games. 20 home runs in 80 innings. I have been a Braves fan since the bad old days, and I still hold out hope that things will get turned around. But, do we really want to make the playoffs again with the team we have… maybe going in as the wildcard would be a good thing.

By Charleston Brave

July 10, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

Good call jj smith. He just got it in under the wire. I like the new direction, yet I have no info on my end. I’m anxiously waiting to see.

I swear every year the Braves are playing well and winning games at this time, and always want to delay the allstar break to keep up the momentum which fortunately hasn’t slowed them down in the past. If last year translates … the second half should be pretty fun. Especially coming from behind.

By DCBravesFan

July 10, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

Stop the talk about putting Barry in the starting rotation. The bullpen is horrible and you want to remove the lone bright spot for the last month. Brilliant.

IMO the Braves should just hold on to the hope that Davies comes back ready to go by the end of the month. A rotation of Hudson, Smoltz, HoRam, James and Davies is as solid as any in the NL.

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

I think we should delay the allstar game until July 25. Yes, that’s definitely what we should do. This is not a good time for it.

By Chop Chop

July 10, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this

I think the “real” Horacio is inconsistent, jimmy. I have no reason to suspect he’ll ever be consistently good or bad. He’s just one of the many major league starters who can’t keep it together for more than three starts in a row.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

I think that with the way this year has gone, I would like to keep Barry in the pen. Hopefully the starters will get their act into full gear and it sure is nice to think someone in the pen is reliable, other than Ray. If the starters still occaisionally have starts like Horacio’s the other night (and Hudson’s and Thomson’s and we hope Smoltz’s groin doesn’t act up), it seems that Barry can handle the long relief better than Villarreal. Maybe he’s better off where he is for now. It’s good to know we have someone else to turn to, though.

By journalist jimmy smith pressed into journalistic service

July 10, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

looks like the braves have the starters if bobby can get them in the rotation and keep them healthy. young chuck james has been amazing and horacio was doing just fine until the last start. let’s hope it is not toe troubles. jimmy smith sees no reason to give the ball to thomson again in a starting role. after he resolves his soreness he should be stationed in the bullpen. he can probably help there. hey, jimmy smith could probably help there. in reality, the starters are better, the pen is better, and the hitting is taking care of itself. hey, they even played some small ball against st. louis! the braves are poised to make a run. what will the rotation be? is ray now our closer?

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

This break isn’t bad. It’s probably the best thing right now. They are on a roll, yes. But this isn’t going to cool them off. The team is a second half team. It has been for quite a while. It should allow those cortizone shots to take full affect by the time the break is over.

Although, Brian McCann could probably use the time off to rest his ankle. But even still, he won’t be playing a full 9 innings and he’s only playing that short time for one day of the 4, so it should rest him alright.

The Break was not surprise to any of these guys. They knew it was coming. They played to win before the Break so that the could end the first half on a high note instead of a low note (see the Reds). So, now all they must do is rest, prepare and win some more when the time comes.

In short, this blog article was pretty lame Guy. I was hoping for a little more. At it’s least, it gave all of us a fresh page to post on. The other one was starting to load a little slow. So for that, thanks Guy.

By Chop Chop

July 10, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

DCBravesFan, the starting rotation you list is precisely why it’s going to be awfully hard for the Braves to dig themselves out of the hole they’re in. The only guy we are pretty certain will go out there and pitch well every time out is Smoltz. Everyone else is a crapshoot. The NL isn’t very good this year, but the Braves’ bullpen (while it has been fairly solid recently and posted good numbers) is worse than most and can’t protect the starters very often.

By Chop Chop

July 10, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

Jorge Sosa has a toe problem in his brain.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

Esteemed Journalist Jimmy Smith-Toe difficulties aside for the moment, what are your predictions for the Braves in the second half? Do you think that they can play at a torrid enough pace to blow all of baseball out of their shoes?

By baby seal

July 10, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

baby seal can report that journalist guy cartright has experienced minor toe difficulties that have hampered recent blogging efforts. all star break just in time for journalist guy. baby seal hopes esteemed journalist dob will help pick up slack after the break.

baby seal hopes to see scott williamson in braves uniform in the next week. and more scott thorman in lineup as he begins to heat up.

By geauxbraves2000

July 10, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

I think the break is coming at a good time for the players, give the players time to heal.

As far as JJS’s direction, HoRam is inconsistent, Hudson is inconsistent, Who knows about Thomson, James is doing a good enough job as long as he gets run support. The only solid in the rotation right now is Smoltz. Between Barry & Ray I think they could get the job done closing out games, so I think a starter is what JS needs to search for, Willis, Zito…

The offense is good enough to win, gotta have the pitching to back them up though, with good pitching I think the Braves will make a serious run at the WC if not the division.

I remember a few seasons ago within a matter of a couple of a couple of weeks the Braves turned a five game deficit into a 5 game lead. I know this is not the same team and the deficit is 13, but, again with formidable pitching, they are very capable of making the postseason. IMO.

Geaux Braves!!

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this

Someone suggested ealier that Thompson’s likely to have no value in trade. If that’s true, I still think he has value here as a long reliever/spot starter. He’s off the books after this year anyway. I wouldn’t want him starting a big game, but he is experienced and capable if needed. Hey, if we can get anything meaningful for him, I’m not opposed, but otherwise keep him and use him as needed, at least to eat up innings.

I like Horam. He’s effectively in his 3rd year and is decent, if not great. Certainly a viable #3 or 4. James looks solid so far.

I’ve lost track of the prognosis on Davies. When is he going to pitch again?

By Blake

July 10, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this

August

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this

lew, jimmy smith hopes you will be painting portraits by the dugout in october. the signs are good right now with the 1-2-3 batters hitting and the fine work of mccann. francoeur is hitting when they need the rbi and thorman looks good now, huh? will they get the pitching? jimmy smith thinks they will. the starters have been erratic but there have been some good games of late.
there are some guys in the pen who can get some outs now. do we have one that can get the last three? maybe so with ray.
what moves will js make? that will say a lot about chances in the second half. jimmy smith is having fun watching this team and optimism is running high. uh, chipper is doing a great job.

By Joe Roman

July 10, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

I don’t anticipate any ill effects from the break. What we’re seeing now is further evidence of Bobby’s magic touch. His infinite patience with the hand he was dealt pays off in spades when the same bunch that was playing awful in June plays well in July. Virtually everybody else-including me-has lost faith at one time or another. Bobby never has. I think there’s a very real possibility the sporting world will be calling this team the “Miracle Braves” when October rolls around.

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith, interesting reaction to the Blog … I was going to respond to Brian with a “Here! Here!” when I saw and read your post.

Penn, I sent you a “memories” response but, as per usual, I posted it the previous Blog.

Everyone knows that I think that saying bad things about folks is “Bad Behavior” with two capital Bs … but I won’t be too critical of those who so indulge with regard to some of those as ESPN; especially “Bad Boy Berman” and those misguided souls who emulate his style, or lack thereof … and who share his apparent love of self.

Fiesty Bob

By Lew

July 10, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

Thank you esteemed Journalist Jimmy. Yours is, certainly, the definitive word. Yes, Chipper is doing a great job. I, for one, think he usually does, but he is as hot with the bat right now as anyone around. I do hope for consistent pitching, though. I would love to paint October portraits.

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop, maybe Jorge’s brain is in his toes. For some reason, I think Roger may be soon be successful in helping him better utilize what appears to be all star stuff … it’s all above the toes.

By Calvin

July 10, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this

Hmmm..They went through a similar situation in 93. I think they can keep up their winning as long as they continue to get consistent good bullpen work.

By Jay

July 10, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

Smoltz wasn’t that far off after all. 7-3 vs. 8-2. A break is good , but winning after the break is better. This should be as interesting second half since the mid 90s.

By Riley Martin

July 10, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

It is true good journalist that Umm Mr. Chipper Jones is producing as if his toes were always in stellar condition and things of this nature. I will throw this out. Uhm Chipper seems to be doing a very good inpression of the pre-foot/toe problem spint when running the bases. Does this mean shnanigans? Not sure but you may also notice no limps during or after the play at the plate which yeilded the now famous Uhm Chipper Jones Karate Move

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

horacio was sporting a very effective sinker until his last start when the sinker just wasn’t there. do you realize how many braves’ pitchers are throwing a really good sinker now? paronto especially has a good sinker. the ball drops to the toes. toes are not to be trifled with.

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

This teams need rest soully in the pitchers. The batters, even with Giles in leadoff, aren’t that bad. If we had better pitching we’d be better rounded. I hope a trade is made and I will be happy with a trade for a pitcher. I believe the bullpen is the biggest inconsistent leak. As much as HoRam has been up and down and Hudson has been up and down, the pen has spent the better part of this season down. But what do you expect, I suppose. With the likes of Reitsma and Remmer down there, moral has to be horrid. Especially since Reitsma’s such a nice guy. No body wanted to just yell at him because they felt bad for him. But you know they were all secretly happy to see him be put on the DL. When he came off the DL, they lost. Then he went back on the DL, they won. It’s a no brainer at that point. Keep Reitsma away from the team.

GO BRAVES

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

uh, journalist jimmy smith feels badly when jimmy smith picks on uh, chipper. it is believed that chipper may not be the sharpest crayon in the box - still, he is a really good baseball player. it is sad when he allows himself to be perceived at less than full effort. ol’ aches and pains seems just right lately. is it coincidental that it started after betemit went 3-3 with a hr in his start at third when chipper’s thumb was feeling ill? numbness is a very bad thing if it occurs on the baseball field. all will be forgotten if chipper continues on the current pace. there is much difference when the leadoff batter is on and renteria has likely moved him over and chipper comes to the plate. he is seeing pitches he did not see earlier. he is good enough to carry a team for a time.

By Jim

July 10, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

93 was similar to this year only in the fact that the Braves were way out at the all-star break. The ‘93 team Had a rotation of Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, and Avery in their primes (and the team felt that when the Giants starters got up around 200 innings they would fade). In ‘93 JS made his ultimate trade — McGriff for Melvin Nieves and 2 never weres. We can never expect such a lopsided trade again. The ‘93 team won 104 games!

One long shot suggestion to bridge the gap in the rotation until Davies returns — Bring up Matt Wright from double A. He has been a fringe prospect from the 2000 draft, and he is having a very good year at AA. (One of the few bright spots in our high minor league system.) He is perhaps the most major league ready pitcher in the organization and he presents a more interesting option than Cormier. If he does well he may either fit into the plans for the future or enhance his value in a trade. If he doesn’t, he’d be giving us the same thing that Thomson or Cormier have delivered in that spot anyway.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

Speaking of sliders that sink to the toes. What happened to Hudson’s. Andruw saved him much embarassment last game.

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

“Riley Martin” et alia … some folks say what others feel … and all have now seen. Wow, what uh interesting dynamic, that Larry.

By tvsports

July 10, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

Nice to see Guy put a lot of thought and hard work into today’s blog. We would have been better off not having anything, cause that’s pretty much what we got.

By Head Coach

July 10, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this

they need the rest as evidenced by the two cortizone shots given to Chipper and Giles . McCann will be able to rest his ankle. I’m sure the older guys like Smoltz , Pratt , Thomson and Hudson appreciate the break. Whats the the status of Davies ? he is due to come off the DL on the 20th of this month , is he ready to pitch ? Three more weeks for Schuerholz to make a trade before the July 31st deadline is up. I hope his phone is on speed dial.

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

‘course, in fairness to Guy, every blog turns into the same discussion anyway, so guess it doesn’t matter.

Regarding Chipper: I’m sorry… just don’t get it. Chipper’s hitting over .300 with none on, over .300 with men on base. Over .300 lefty, over .300 righty. Slips all the way to .293 with RISP.

Career-wise, a plus-.300 ba, third alltime HR leader as a switch-hitter.

Have read that Giles was playing bad on purpose to get traded; Now I guess now that CJ is faking his injury to ‘splain a bad month? (oh, and the doctor is putting his reputation on the line by lying, just to make Chipper look good… hmmm)

I think there’s a conspiracy, all right, but it’s not CJ or Marcus.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

mbatl, hush! journalist jimmy smith has been undercover on this story for several weeks and here you go and blow everything! what seemed to be unexplainable was to be explained. what seemed to be conspiracy was to be revealed. now, sadly, we must only wait and see. perhaps you will remember a recent jimmy smith post regarding elevation of the toe and hoof. this, in measure has made tremendous difference for chipper. healthy toes, healthy performance. toes are not to be trifled with.

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this

JJS, guess if you and the other conspiracy theorists haven’t separately discussed The Defamation of Chipper Jones, it’s not really a conspiracy, or at least not a RICO violation…

As to the trade deadline (and putting aside my suggestion that we trade AJ… I think I’m coming to my senses on that one but I still have these strange dreams… ); I asked in an earlier blog whether Gordon might be worth a risk. IF Philly trades Abreu, they’d need someone in the OF, so maybe Langy or Diaz could have value. Gordon is an OLD MAN, and does make some money, so I don’t know, but would sure love to see a lights-out closer for the ‘run’ this year.

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this

Cormier wasn’t horrible. In his only two starts, the Braves were “in the game”. The bats didn’t produce, but that’s going to happen over the course of the season. We lost 2-3 on the road and 3-5 at home in his starts.
Thomson’s starts average nearly 2 full runs more given up compared to Cormier. And Cormier has the lowest run support per game than any other start the Braves used, save Smith, who received zero runs in his only start. Not all these runs are given up by the starter.

That being said, I don’t see Cormier as a long term plan, but he’s certainly an improvement over Thomson.
In Davies starts, the Braves actually give up almost a full run over Thomson (over 2 full runs more than Cormier), but Davies also gets way more run support (5 more runs than Cormier and 2 more than Thomson). His starts come with a positive run differential which is more than Thomson or Cormier could offer.

Reliever Scott Williamson has said that it would be best for him and the team if he is traded before the July 31 non-waiver deadline. He hopes to get into a setup role elsewhere
—Chicago-Sun Times

By DonCoburleone

July 10, 2006 07:12 PM | Link to this

Everybody needs to calm down a little bit… I know the Braves have been playing well and I am excited about it, but lets look at the WHOLE picture here. It is the All-Star Break, we are 9 games below .500 and 13 games out of first. I doubt anyone on this blog would have believed it or been happy with this first half at the beginning of the year, regardless of how they are playing now, and since when is 10-6 over a 16 game span considered hot? 10 wins in a row is hot, just like 10 losses in a row is a freefall. Don’t mean to be a buzzkill, and I do believe they are just as good as any wild-card team they are chasing, but there is still alot of room for improvement…

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 07:12 PM | Link to this

MBATL: Chipper is also the only switch hitter in history with a .300 average and over 300 home runs.

By stynes

July 10, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this

As JJS said, Chipper is good enough (when hot) to carry the team. The same can be said of only a handful of other players in the NL. When they were struggling through that rough patch a couple of weeks ago it seemed like every night or two Chipper would come up with a man on and a chance to go up and he never came through. He may have drawn a walk or moved a runner over. He may have made a productive out but productive outs are just that: productive. They don’t carry a team.

The team’s play for the last 2 weeks coincides exactly with Chipper getting hot. As much as they need the bullpen to stabilize and another consistent starter to emerge and for Huddy to get out of the funk he’s been in (Smoltz, HoRam, and James look to be solid), Chipper is really the key to the second half. If my quick math serves me correctly, Chipper is 26/51 since 6/24. That’s .510, folks. With 4 HRs, 15 RBIs in 15 games. The Braves are 9-6 over that period (10 of their last 16 overall).

The Mets right now sit at 53-36 having played nearly .600 ball for the first part of the season. With Pedro on the DL and no reliable starter outside of Glavine, I don’t think play much better than.500 ball the rest of the way. They’ve got a good offense but it can’t continue at the torrid pace it’s been going. The lack of depth in the starting rotation is going to catch up with them.

My prediction is that it’s going to take 92 wins to win the NL East this year and 85 to win the WC. If the Braves keep up the clip they’ve been at over the past 16 games they’d finish 86-76 and win the WC. If they play better or the Mets falter then the Braves have a distant shot at winning the division.

Just for giggles and all the CJ haters out there, if Chipper keeps up the pace he’s on over the past couple of weeks then he’ll hit .403 for the year with 28 HRs and 129 RBIs. Not bad for an old man with a bum foot. He obviously won’t keep up that pace but it’s fun to see the math.

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 07:21 PM | Link to this

Point noted Don. But, if the Braves continue playing at the pace they have played the last 12 games (.667), they will win 90 games this season. That’s “hot”. But, I guess compared to 1.000 (ending the season with 113 wins), .667 is nothing to get excited about. But, I’m still excited.

GO BRAVES

By DonCoburleone

July 10, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this

On a personal note, I FREAKIN’ HATE THE ALL STAR BREAK! NO REAL BASEBALL TO LOOK FORWARD TO UNTIL THURSDAY!!! IT SUCKS!!!

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this

this is a pretty good site for getting contract info on players (maybe there are better… let me know). But the Quotes on the main page are great. Check it out… and hope the link worked…

By DonCoburleone

July 10, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this

About the article, wow, what a bunch of effort that was. And who cares if the break is at a bad time? It is what it is…

By DonCoburleone

July 10, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

I will be at the Friday and Saturday games against the Padres this weekend… I hope we can sweep! GO BRAVES!

By DonCoburleone

July 10, 2006 08:00 PM | Link to this

MBATL, the link didn’t work…

By Glass Half Full

July 10, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

I just read an article from Foxsports bashing the HR Derby. Man, do those guys toe the line. If the derby was on Fox tonight they’d bill it as the most important event short of the resurrection. What a bunch of a*****.

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

MBATL, it’s fun to turn a phrase or two to make a point but whoever suggests that Giles was playing bad on purpose … for any reason … was either funnin’ or doesn’t know Marcus or Bobby. I myself hate his uppercut swing … but he gives as much effort as any little feller I’ve ever seen … excepting me and Gene Verble, of course.

Interestingly, the little man, himself, recently acknowledged that the “uppercut” is a two edge sword and is actively working on leveling that sucker out just a bit.

Chipper may have had a bit too much on his mind and I think that whenever he worries about the team’s ability to win, the overload affects both his health and his play … it may well manifest itself in problems with his feet. Of course, I’m not doctor and I always stay at the Courtyard.

Jimmy emphasizes the “toes” and I agree it’s important not to step on them … and no fun either to be the recipient of same.

I usually emphasize that it’s all above the neck for most of these guys but the real common denominators that make them special are more elusive and not found at either extreme … like spirit, ego, and heart.

Regardless of our frustrations and our chiding … and regardless of the flaws below the ankles or above the neck … I think most fans agree that these guys can be quite special and Bobby has more than just a little to do with that.

Of course, that makes it all the more difficult when they’re not performing as expected! Too critical at times for sure … but I am a fan and have always rooted for all that don the uniform … except maybe Boone and Loftin … and one or two others that shall not be defamed.

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this

DonC… it’s

http://mlbcontracts.blogspot.com/

Never have had much luck with that process here, and I’m a computer geek. The site is no big deal… but note the quote by our own Don Sutton, and I love the one by Tug McGraw.

By A Nobody

July 10, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

MBATL, thanks for the link. Interesting!

JJS, many thanks for bailing all of us out. Guy must be having some serious toe ailments……or something….. Hope he’s better soon.

Haven’t had time to post lately, but have scanned through now and then. Just stopping by fora few minutes to say Howdy!

By Glass Half Full

July 10, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this

Here’s a suggestion: if the All-Star game “counts,” why not let the players in the HR Derby add those homers to their season totals?

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

Howdy! A Somebody … how’s The Lady? I don’t think we’ve heard from her in a few days either.

MBATL’s link was appreciated … I especially liked the old George Steinbrenner quote!

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

(I said I wouldn’t watch it but…) anyone notice that Berman hasn’t used the ‘back back back’ phrase much, if any. Good for him! If he can learn, so can Frenchy.

By JJMB

July 10, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

Bad time for a break? This implies the Braves are streaking, and the break will disrupt this streak.

Two things come to mind. The Braves could be slumping coming into the break. Would that better? No.

Then I think of Scott Thorman. He’s streaking right now. Who thinks Bobby won’t sit his a* down as soon as LaRoche is ready to go?

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this

joe morgan overload! journalist jimmy smith is experiencing joe morgan overload. must he be on every program? now he is over-analyzing a home run derby. oh, well … toes are not to be trifled with.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 08:40 PM | Link to this

Journalist Jimmy Smith-I have a question. Was the Rico violation named after Rico Brogna. If so it must be because he played a long time with the Mets. Or maybe it was because he was not our answer at first base. Was he really bad enough to warrant a violation? Did he have such bad toe problems because of hygiene violations? Was it a fungus that caused the violation? Please. Enquiring minds want to know.

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 08:44 PM | Link to this

10 Paul,

No, Cormier wasn’t horrible but I wonder if perhaps the team may be a bit flat when he pitches.

Thompson is an interesting case … put him back in the pen and his stiffness might disappear as quickly as did Chipper’s problems with his feet. That’s ill advised and ill timed, tounge-in-cheek … but I do think that maybe he’s a bit too quick to try to fix things that ain’t broke, gets overwhelmed … and then loses confidence and heart.

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

Very insightful, Lew. Thanks!

By Lew

July 10, 2006 08:54 PM | Link to this

You’re welcome. We enquiring minds are so full of insight you just wouldn’t believe. Most Mets fans are probably aware of the most famous Rico prosecution. The one where Sammy the Bull stepped on John Gotti’s toes.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 08:57 PM | Link to this

lew, jimmy smith has no idea. sometimes, mbatl will try to confuse jimmy smith. rico carty used to be a pretty good outfielder for the braves and he is most famous for whipping a certain home run champion’s posterior while aboard an airplane. that is the only rico violation with which this journalist is familiar. it was a very beeg violation as journalist recalls. beeg boy once hit .366 for the braves. big smile like andruw but showed more teeth. best toes in the league allowed him to hit for high average.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Yes, I remember Rico Carty, but believe he was too good a hitter to have a violation named after him. Hitters the caliber of Rico Carty and Ralph Garr are worthy things to have on your team. Ralph Garr was known as the Road Runner so his toes must have been in excellent shape. Certainly no violation there.

By MBATL

July 10, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Not really a funny comment, Lew. But guess you’ve made your statement.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

It now occurs to me that maybe they did name the Rico violation after Rico Brogna, because I remember that Skip Caray asked many times if Rico Brogna was for real (see what a good memory enquiring minds have?) Maybe they named the violation after him so Skip would remeber that Rico was real.

By Lew

July 10, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

MBATL, what do you expect? It is the All Star break and I didn’t make the team. Besides, the blog today isn’t the greatest. I’ll save my A material for after the break.

By NYFAN

July 10, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

The national league must win tomorrow so that the Mets have home field advantage in the world series.

By MBATL

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

Lew, I expect that I’ve been “warned” by journalist Bob about stepping on Jimmy’s toes, and then warned about what happened to some gangster who stepped on John Gotti’s toes. It’s not funny. If it’s real (over a damn baseball blog) bring it on. If it’s play, you’re playing a dangerous game. Today’s blog copied and archived, I am out of here.

By John Hoar

July 10, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Where have all the nay-sayers gone? Read every single entry on this blog. Haven’t been able to do that in a while-automatically skipping over a bunch of fellows.

Has anyone (nk?) done any kind of an analysis of the remainder of the season? I think we all know that we play nine more with the Mets but how about how we have done against teams earlier in the year, and how the Mets have performed. It seems to me that we are a better team now, and the Mets may be not as good a team. Not to wish him bad luck or an injury but how serious is Pedro’s hip. Anybody know?

If anyone has the skill and knowledge to look at the schedule for the rest of the year it might be interesting and provide some insight.

By A Nobody

July 10, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

Howdy back atcha, Bob! Thanks for your elevation of this ol’ boy!

Carolina Lady is doing better - had a small set-back from thinking she could get take on more than she can right now, but doing OK. In fact, I’m on her machine right now. (She and my wife are yakking in the kitchen.)

I don’t know when to take Jimmy’s questions seriously, so putting myself at risk of snickers for giving a straight answer, I’ll answer the RICO question: it stands for ‘Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations’ Act. Yeah, yeah, I knew you knew it already……

Thomson and timely injuries: he was quoted on one of the sports news sites as saying that he liked Atlanta and would do whatever he had to do to stay there. He sure keeps his word doesn’t he?? He may be legit, but it seems kind of odd to me!

I think the women are done, so I’m off again. Have a good night!

By MEB

July 10, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

JJS is doing an incredible job relieving for the vacationing DOB. After a brutal first half DOB is in need of much rest and lost of pie. A strong relief effort is exactly what our Braves need for the second half. JS needs to work some trade magic and get us a closer! Death Ray is doing great but I like him as our setup man. The rest of the bullpen (except Sosa) seems to have found its niche.

John Thomson is a key for starting staff and needs to build up a sweat and have a strong second half. This may sound crazy but I think Sosa can still provide valuable service as a spot starter.

Since John Thomson has little to do over this All Star break could JJS enquire about his assistance here in south Alabama as we are experiencing a terrible drought.

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

NYFAN: The NL Must win tomorrow just to put an end to all this ESPN praising of the AL. What with it’s career pinch hitters and lack of real fundamental baseball plays. It’s the younger of the two leagues. I view it as the b@stard of the two as well. If there were no AL when Bud took over, he’d of created one.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

mbatl, sore toe today? it is okay to defend chipper and right now he’s easy to defend. journalist remembers when mike de la hoz used to play third base and chipper is better. in fact, let’s hope he does not cool off while he is off for a few days. ranchin’ can be hard on the toes.

By NYFAN

July 10, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

You can’t deny the American league right now is stronger. Historicaly the national league had the better pitching but I think not only do they have better sluggers but better pitchers as well.

By Bob, journalist

July 10, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I assume that you’ve left the building … but, unless someone is using my name in vain, no warnings were being issued by this old man … and, I thought your RICO Act reference was super!

By TennesseePaul

July 10, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

It hurts. I hate it. I can’t deny it but it doesn’t make me happy. All the more reason the NL needs to win this thing mid season and post season.

By journalist jimmy smith

July 10, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

oh, that rico act. famous bud selig has some familiarity with that one. remember? rico carty is still journalist’s favorite rico. even that bat couldn’t keep him in atlanta when he got crossed-up with the hammer. used to taunt hank in the dugout. rico was an ex-professional fighter. hammer would need a bat in a fight with the beeg boy. word is that teammates sorta enjoyed hank gettin’ a whoopin’.

meb, thanks for the kind words. journalism is hard business and jimmy smith is out of cheese.

a nobody, send jimmy smith’s best regards to carolina lady. she must rest and recuperate for the second half.

By Calvin

July 10, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

Is it me or is the HR derby boring without Sammy Sosa? I remember what he did in 2000 in Atlanta and how he made that park look awfully small.

By elbravo x

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

So bored, so right! The stupid HR contest has 2 NL East in the final. Hope their swings get messed up for the rest of the season. Swing hard boys!

By Lew

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

Does anyone have any idea what MBATL was talking about? I’m not sure but apparently I’ve stepped on his toes unintentionally. My Gotti quote actually had nothing whatsoever to do with MBATL, at least not in my mind. Neither did I realize that Bob, journalist had done anything threatening. Are we all getting too thin skinned here? I even accepted NYFAN’s apology earlier. I certainly didn’t mean to hurt anyone’s feelings.

By JJMB

July 10, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this

meth = paranoia

By Tomahawkin

July 10, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Calvin you’re right….I miss the Big Boys like Griffey, McGwire, Sosa, etc….

BTW Why da he!! was Thome, and Adam Dunn not in there

With all due respect to guys like Jermaine Dye, people pay to see 500 foot bombs, not 335 foot fencescrapers…

I wonder who chooses the players 4 da competition, It must be Dud Selig

And what the he!! is a band needed to perform before the game, I watch the Derby 4 baseball, if I want to see a crappy concert, I’ll watch MTV or better yet CMT

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

I guess everyone is seeing the new deal Total B.S. (TBS) Made, That was the official call of the ending of the braves being Americas Team….

TBS SUCKS!!!

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 12:09 AM | Link to this

Oh yea, Why does everyone hate Chris Berman, personally I grew up watching him when ESPN was good, I still think he does a good job, especially on NFL Primetime, but I think he maybe falling off a bit, because he seems too east coast biased (yanks/sox) as well….

At least we didn’t have to listen to Joe Buck and Tim McCarver

BTW I can’t stand John Kruk

By flbravesgirl

July 11, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

What’s with this TBS deal?! I don’t want to see other teams there, I want to see the Braves on TBS!!! Why does TimeWarner insist on sticking it to Braves fans? The Braves are what brought TBS to prominence and TW “repays” us by showing fewer games each year. Where do we complain?!

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 12:53 AM | Link to this

I cosign on that FlaBravesgirl

I wonder who is gonna call those games next year…

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 12:58 AM | Link to this

Come to think of it, I hope they do put other teams games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, instead of Seinfeld and that Sex and The City Crap, that show is already on two other networks anyway, and is probably the most overplayed show other than Cops, The Fresh Prince and King of the Hill

TBS SUCKS

By Head Coach

July 11, 2006 01:26 AM | Link to this

It’s a conspiracy , TimeWarner is owned by Yankee and Mets fans in New York. TBS has finally put the knife in the backs of the Braves. Yea , the N.L. wins the homerun contest again , props to Ryan Howard. Now they can get thier butts kicked again tomorrow in the All-Star game. I dont really believe Andruw is on the trading block but just for s.hits and giggles if he were to be traded it would be too the Angels. Out of the 30 major league teams they rank 4th in pitching and 23rd in offense , so yes they would have a keen interest in Andruw. Outside of VLadimir Guerrero they have no offense to speak of and they have tons of pitching and prospects too trade in return , but again I really think its all rumors circulating on the Internet.

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 01:29 AM | Link to this

Headcoach The NL Lineup Sucks, have U seen it?

Try to take it easy on throwing the beer cans 2morrow,lol…

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 01:31 AM | Link to this

Headcoach, I heard that rumor as well, but I’m not taking any credibility into it, since I haven’t heard those turds talkin about it on ESPN…

By Tomahawkin

July 11, 2006 01:39 AM | Link to this

Mainly they said it would be Andruw 4 Dallas McPherson, and these 2 cats Aybar and Saunders

The only deal I want to see is us getting Chone Figgins…4 cheap

I don’t think that will happen, and I think it’s just wishful thinking on the angels and ESPN’s part (ESPN just wants us to get rid of everyone so they can get the press), Also I heard the angels want Chipper, so I really think that is just wishful thinking on their part…

But word of mouf is that the Phillies are looking to Dump Burrell, I don’t think we really need him, but the dude has some pop

By Jimbo

July 11, 2006 01:43 AM | Link to this

Tomahawkin…Berman is a one trick pony (nicknames which is old and tired). He is without question the worst baseball play by play man ever. I agree on the TBS deal…It stinks…I will not watch other teams play…I want to watch the Braves.

By Head Coach

July 11, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this

Yes and the A.L line up kicks a.s.s , speed , power ,righty’s and lefty’s. Ozzie has a cadillac of an offense. In case you didnt read this in the previous blog , here it is. In the words of David O’Brien : I couldnt make this up if I tried , The Braves offense had a team total of 666 strikeouts. Does this mean they are going to play like the Devil in the second half ? and thats third worst in the majors behind behind the Marlins (683) and the Brewers(698). 666 strikeouts , funny aint it ?

By Bob, journalist

July 11, 2006 02:47 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder … is one of my favorites but “One man’s meat is another man’s poison” might say it better in this case. Regardless, it’s always unfortunate when misunderstandings occur, whatever the reason.

I probably ponder the “why” as much as anyone … and it’s sometimes fun to proffer somewhat farfetched scenarios, drawn from the ponderings of strange, unexpected and/or unexplained events … so I plead guilty to sometimes being an irritant to those of a different ilk .

Maybe I didn’t understand the music but I must say that some chord was struck … that’s for sure. However, having reexamined the evidence, I must request that my name be added to the list of those who have no idea … for unless I’m mistaken, it was he that presented the good humor for the taking … and continued to so participate, or so it seemed, until … ?!

Changing the color of the thread slightly so as as to do a bit more than just close the gate after the horse has left the barn … those of us who embrace the language can never be absolutely sure that our doings won’t somehow be offensive or upsetting to some, regardless of how hard we try to otherwise so do … but, you don’t have to understand the theory of relativity to be comfortable in betting the farm that most folks are able to tell the difference between playful, pointed pun participation and mean spirited poison pens.

Simply stated … most folks can tell that no harm was intended …and MBATL is certainly in the 3 digit club.

By Head Coach

July 11, 2006 04:06 AM | Link to this

Um , Bob . This is a baseball blog ? And the rest of us speak english. so please , take your whatever it is ,……. somewhere else.

By dylan

July 11, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

Head Coach the most educated man on the Braves Blogs.

By Kent

July 11, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

Yesterday Chop Chop wrote:

“the starting rotation you list is precisely why it’s going to be awfully hard for the Braves to dig themselves out of the hole they’re in. The only guy we are pretty certain will go out there and pitch well every time out is Smoltz. Everyone else is a crapshoot.”

No offense man, BUT YOU ARE OUT OF YOUR EVER LOVIN’ MIND!!!!!

The Braves, quite frankly, have the best rotation in the NL (as long as Hudson pitches like Tim Hudson*)

HoRam had a lousy start his last time out. Hey… it happens to the best of them. And in the month leadin up to that start, HoRam had been one of the “best of them”. Ramirez has turned a corner, and (as long as he’s healthy), he’s going to win his share of games in the second half.

Chuck James is a great looking pitcher. 3-0 with a 2.87 ERA… so far so good, don’t you think?

Tell me who has a better rotation than that in the NL right now?

By Head Coach

July 11, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

Dylan , I couldnt say who has the best education or is the smartest. I know its not me , lol. I’m just a thirty year Braves fanatic who bleeds Braves red , white and blue. You have a great day.

By Jack

July 11, 2006 08:57 AM | Link to this

What the hell difference does it make to what any of us think to your question? Our opinions won’t affect the outcome. It’s all up to the team to perform. To win the wild card, my opinion is as follows: win 2 of 3 in each of the three upcoming road series after the break and then accompany that with at least one sweep and 2 of 3’s in the others when they return home; after that they can’t afford being swept in any series. That’s going to be tough. For all you dream bloggers out there, forget about a trade that’s going to make any difference. We don’t have anything to give up that makes any sense and there’s nothing of any value out there that anybody’s going to give up without breaking the bank. If the Braves are going to do it, it will be with the lot we have or another guy from the farm along the way.

By KC

July 11, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

Hey, don’t look now but the Braves have 5 relievers with good ERA’s!

Ken Ray: 2.66 Where would Atlanta be without this guy?

Chad Paronto: 2.93 Will likely be Ken Ray’s setup guy for now.

Tyler Yates: 3.12 Great stuff. looks like he’s feeling a little more comfortable in the big leagues.

Kevin Barry: 0.00 (granted, only 9 innings pitched, but still impressive.)

Phil Stockman: 2.25 (only 4 innings pitched, but so far, so good for a great looking young pitcher). The Braves are looking forward to getting this guy healthy and back in the ‘pen’.

Also, Macay McBride has an unimpressive 4.39 ERA overall, but left-handed hitters are hitting only .174 against him. Looks like we know who to bring in to get a lefty out. He did a great job the other night against Cinci, striking out Griffey in a key situation, and mowing through a couple more left-handed hitters the following inning.

I didn’t really notice how good things are beginning to look in the bullpen until I glanced at the numbers today. A proven closer would still help the Braves Chances of getting to the postseason this year, but It’ looks like the Braves have the makings of a really good young ‘pen’ here. Who would have thunk it a month ago?

By KC

July 11, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this

When Phil Stockman comes back off the DL, I think it will (or should) be time to realease Jorge Sosa.

The bullpen should be: Ken Ray, Chad Paronto, Tyler yates, Kevin Barry, Phil Stockman, Macay Mcbride, Oscar Villarreal.

I don’t know… maybe you keep Sosa instead of Villarreal. Either way, which ever one they decide to keep should serve as a mop-up guy. Neither have proven themselves capable of handling key roles.

By Jim

July 11, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

Which teams have stronger rotations? — Start with the Padres: leading the league in ERA, anchored by Peavey, and with Hoffman closing. The Astros even with the struggles of Pettite still have Oswald, Clemens, maybe Backe after the break, and a decent bullpen. The Marlins have been getting good work from Olsen and Johnson, Nolasco has been decent, and they still have Willis as their ace. The Braves don’t have a fifth starter right now, and you are projecting James on a sample of 3 major league starts. When and if Davies comes back, do we get the first start against the Mets or the previous start against the Phillies? There has been way too short an opportunity to guage the real potential of Davies or much of the staff as a whole.

By Lew

July 11, 2006 09:38 AM | Link to this

Head Coach, don’t let anyone detract you dude, you’re a gentleman and a scholar for sure. I’m not sure about the Braves releasing Sosa, they would still have to pay him about a mil for the rest of the season. Villarreal hasn’t been horrendous in long relief. I know someone will come up with stats to prove me an uneducated fool, but there have been a couple of multiple innings appearances where he did well.Journalist Bob, your verbosity is, at times, exceedingly evident, but your message is invariably on point. I hope MBATL comes back and explains his problem with our riffing on the Rico thing. I’m totally mystified myself.

By Jim

July 11, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this

Has anyone compared the arm angle of Sosa from last year to this year? I would be willing to bet that he is throwing more from the side. His slider does not have the downward break he had last year, and his fastball is riding back in over the plate. He had the best stuff on the staff last year and his problems came from walks, not giving up hits. I can’t remember too many HRs against him last year (except for Burke’s in the playoffs). He was the stopper last year and we would not have won without him. I think he has changed his arm angle to get better control, but has surrendered the movement he had last year. I would be very reluctant just to dump him — he still has the liveliest arm on the staff.

By Jim

July 11, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

I think it was actually Lamb that hit the HR in the playoffs, but it hurt just as much.

By Alan

July 11, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

Yes, the bullpen has looked better lately, but I still think the Braves should try to acquire a relatively cheap veteran closer - say, Wickman or Dempster. They shouldn’t have to give up much - a mid-level prospect or two. Then, Ken Ray could be moved to the 8th inning, with McBride, Paronto, Yates, et al, in the 6th and the 7th.

Still, the key to the Braves’ chances at grabbing the wild card is Tim Hudson. He MUST pitch like the “ace” he’s being paid to be. What other “ace” has lost four starts in a row? His last start was a big improvement (and he deserved to win). He needs to pitch “lights out” in the second half, and that begins Friday night in San Diego.

Go, Braves!

By Jim

July 11, 2006 10:12 AM | Link to this

The last mid-level prospect we trade for a closer was Zach Miner. He’s now 6-1 for the Tigers. We don’t have prospects to burn and would you really feel safer with Wickman or Dempster pitching the 9th inning than Ray? I wouldn’t.

By Lew

July 11, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

Jim, I agree, we can’t keep giving up minor league talent. All it has bought us is one and out in the playoffs. Add to that the fact that we promoted our AA team to the show last year, the cupboard needs a couple years of re-stocking. Your comment on Sosa’s arm slot was on point. In one of the broadcasts the other night, it was mentioned the staff is working on him coming more over the top.

By Jim

July 11, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Tomahawkin,

That trade rumor sounds too horrible to be true. McPherson is a 3B not having developed as once projected. The Braves have Chipper, WB, Escobar, and Campbell all at 3B and a 2006 draftee Coe off to a good start. We need pitching!! (and more than Aybar and Saunders). The only kind of trade for Andruw I would consider is one like this: to the White Sox for Brandon McCarthy and Lance Broadway plus another prospect.

By Lew

July 11, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

Come on-Andruw has said time and time again that he doesn’t want to play anywhere else and he has 10-5 in his favor. Quit beating a dead horse. Andruw, Chipper and Smoltz will not be traded. They will not approve the trades and it is mandatory that their approval be had.

By geauxbraves2000

July 11, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

McBride got very lucky that Griffey swung at that pitch that bounced to the catcher, it should have been ball four, but I will give him his “props” for he completely dominated the next inning. If he could continue to pitch like that he could be special, but he has to gain more control, he can’t keep walking as many as he does.

Every pitcher seems to have a knack for something, and I think the Braves may have found a spot for Villareal, long relief. He can’t just throw as hard as he can and give it everything he’s got when he has to pitch multiple innings, and maybe that’s the way he needs to pitch.

As far as tonight, Geaux NL!!

By DCBravesFan

July 11, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this

From what I am reading it seems the Braves have depleted minor league pitching. I hope I am wrong but I was looking at some numbers from the minors and nothing really stands out. But then again the minors are hard to judge based on sheer numbers.

Someone with some better knowledge of the situation please help me out here!

IMO minor league pitching depth is the key to continued success. Even if you are just using it to trade for bats at the trading deadline.

By Lew

July 11, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

DC Braves Fan-yes, at the moment promotable minor league pitching talent is not available. We either traded top prospects (Belisle, Miner, Zumwalt, Colon, Cappelan, Wainright, etc), or called them up last or this year (Boyer, McBride, Paronto,Davies Stockman, etc.). We may have some more that will be ready in a year or two and this year’s draft was pitching intensive as usual. Hopefully Boyer, Davies, Foster and Devine will come back strong from their assorted injuries. Stockman, too.

By KC

July 11, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

Jim: On the starting pitching thing… I hear ya man, but I’m not talking season-to-date statistics here.

Of course San Diego has a better ERA right now. A LOT of teams have a better ERA. With the kind of June that this team had… there are a lot of team stats (pitching and offensive stats) that will never fully recover this season. Atlanta’s year-end team stats aren’t going to top the league in any category, no matter how well they play from here on out. It’s kind of like missing a bunch of tests and racking up a bunch of “0’s”. No matter how hard you study, your gradepoint average will never fully recover, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be the best student from that point forward.

Do you really think San Diego’d rotation is better than Atlanta’s?

Jake Peavy is a great talent, but he’s 4-8 with a 4.46 ERA. I might be open to the possibility that he’s just had a bad 1/2-season, and that he’ll snap out of it any day now. The problem is that he had an ERA of over 4.00 last year as well.

Chris Young has been very good this season, but after him, who do the Padres have? Chan Ho Park is thier #3 starter for Pete’s sake!

I’m not saying that Atlanta has the best rotation statistically speaking right now. That would obviously be untrue. My point is that I believe the Braves now have the best rotation in the NL.

They have Smoltz and Husdon at the top of the rotation, giving them a 1-2 punch to rival any in baseball (again, as long as Huddy is pitching as he’s capable… which I believe he will from here on out.).

Heracio Ramirez has been excellent (his last start withstanding). HoRam’s ERA has been marred by a couple of bad starts, while the rest were outstanding. And look around the league… Who has a better #3 guy?

The Met’s (Steve Trachsel)? I don’t think so.

The Cardinals? Hell, they don’t even have a #2 starter.

The Dodgers? Nope. After Penny and Lowe, there’s nothing there.

The Astros? Andy Pettite has an ERA over 5.00 this year.

Yeah, Chuck James hasn’t been up long enought to get too carried away with predictions of greatness. I’m basing my opinion on the way he pithed out of the bullpen earlier in the season, the way he pitched at AAA, and the way he is thought of (quite highly) within the Braves organization. I expect James to be a good one. It won’t take much for him to become best #4 starter in the league. Again, no one else in the NL even has a solid #3 starter, let alone a #4 guy.

The 5th starter role is a problem. Every time it seems like they’ve got John Thompson pitching well again, he gets hurt… again. Obviously, K.Davies is still on the shelf, so I don’t know what the answer is there if they can’t get Thompson both healthy and sharp. But the again, getting quality starts out of the #5 hole is a problem for a LOT of teams.

I’m not suggesting that this rotation is anywhere close to the best the Braves have ever had. I’m merely saying that this rotation is better than anything else the National League has to offer right now (That’s not necessarily saying much at the moment, but it’s true none the less).

By KC

July 11, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

JIM: I agree with you on the closer thing. We should not give up good young talent to get a mediocre verteran closer like Wickman or Dempster.

And frankly, I don’t think Shuerholz would give up anything significant to acquire a pitcher of that (non-impressive) stature. Unless the Philies make Tom Gordon available, there simply isn’t anything out there that the Braves need. Even if Gordon is available, Phili will probably want more than we would be willing (or should be willing) to give them in return.

We might pick up a decent veteran middle reliever by the deadline, but I don’t think we’re going to get an impact player of any kind by way of trade this year.

Things are looking better in the ‘pen’. Let’s just hope the kids can get it done.

By TennesseePaul

July 11, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

I don’t like any of these trades for Andruw. I’d have a hard to with Andruw for Pujols. But that’s just me. I’m partial to the wiz we have in Center. I hope he stays for quite a while.

As for the minor league pitching, I believe most of our pitchers of big promise are at the A level. But this doesn’t concern me too much. We have Davies, James, McBride and Boyer all at the major leagues right now (Boyer being injured though). That’s a lot of youth. They are here for 6 years before they are free agents. That’s plenty of time for these lower level guys to work out. At the upper level we have other guys who are taking the Wilson Betemit (Beta Meet) route to the Majors. Anthony Lerew and so forth.

Our minors are pretty stocked. They could always be more stocked I suppose, but we only have 25 spots at the major league level. So some of these guys are going to be traded. It’s the only fair thing to do. Other wise you end up with a lot of disgruntled 30 year old minor leaguers.
Our minor league system isn’t getting much talk right now because of the Dodgers, Angeles, and Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks had to lose quite a bit to draft the guys they got. The Angeles, well Stoneman holds on to his guys like a hermit. It doesn’t surprise me his system is stocked. But a lot of his prospects are 25. Our are around 20. And besides, they aren’t in the majors. And he doesn’t like to trade them. As good as they might be, they aren’t helping him one bit right now. As for the Dodgers, that was only a matter of time. They had a string of 7 straight rookie of the years. They’ve always developed well, but traded horrible. (see Pedro Martinez and the lack of a post season win during those years with all their rookies) I’d rather have JS in charge.
At any rate it doesn’t matter. Our minor leagues produced a 14th consecutive title last year. We have been rebuilding for a few years now. If Davies and James work out, and Ramirez shows the form he has shown lately, then we have a starting rotation which will be very capable and very good for a long time.
Whatever the complaint is, we are not the Yankees. We have more than one “prospect” down there.

By DCBravesFan

July 11, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

Try not to forget Woody Williams. He has had a very good year for the Padres

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this

I really think the NL is going to win tonight, I mean, they can’t possibly go 11 straight years without winning one, could they?

By Tony Almeida

July 11, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

Would you people wake up!!!!!

Schuerholtz didnt do crap to improve the bullpen last year. He didn’t do crap to improve the bullpen in the offseason.

What makes you think he will do anything to improve it now???? THINK ABOUT IT.

By DCBravesFan

July 11, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

We’ll if you call getting the best available closer Kyle Farnsworth doing nothing….then yes I’ll think about it.

BTW Farnsworth was pretty darn good as I remember

Don’t blame JS and Bobby for Farnsworth’s wanting to be a set-up guy and not a closer. They offered him a good contract but he did not want to be in Atlanta.

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

The only trade I would consider for AJ (i know its a moot point, but its still fun to talk about) would be with the Angels and it wouldn’t be for those bums that were mentioned earlier. At the very least I would want either Jared Weaver or Ervin Santana with a top prospect (Kendrick or Wood)and they’d also have to throw in Meicir Izturis (our new lead-off guy).

By Bobby Cox

July 11, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

Tony Almeida,

You say John Schuerholz did nothing to improve the bullpen last year? Are you forgetting about Danny Kolb ? Dan had a little run of bad luck but I think he was just throwing the ball a little more aggressively than he had in he past.

This year? Don’t forget about Remmie. Man I miss that guy! I really think he could have helped us in the post-season. Reitsma, also.

Keep your fingers crossed by John just told me that we may be adding Roberto Hernandez and Six Fingers Alfonseca in the next week or so. They’ve been here before and know what needs to be done.

Enjoy the AllStar Game tonight !

By Tony Almeida

July 11, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

Ahhh Farnsworth…Game 4 Division series….no thank you

By TennesseePaul

July 11, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this

I’m glad that 5 run lead blowing SOB is out of Atlanta. He’s been in the midst of all of the Yankees bullpen failures. This year would about 10 times worse if the pen consisted of Remmer, Reitsma and Farnsworthless in the first half.

And another thing, what is it people want? Complain about over spending on Chipper, then say JS should have shelled out 10 million a year for Todd Jones. Please. The market in the offseason was horrible. Wagner and Hoffman were the only two with serious credentials out there. Hoffman did the right thing and stuck with his team (can’t say that about Glavine) and Wagner took the money and ran. More money than he’s worth.
What’s that counter point? he’s better than anything we have? True, but he costs 3 times more than everything we have in that pen. JS made a wise choice. He didn’t throw out the possibility of resigning Andruw for a guy who only comes in if we’re winning. We need guys like Andruw or Chipper, or any starter for that matter, to actually give the closer a situation to close.

People need to look around, there aren’t that many good relievers in the majors. Especially now that they’ve had their juice bottle taken away. Pitchers, if one hasn’t noticed, juiced just as much as, if not more than, hitters. Hitters got the recognition for the long ball. But has any noticed the level of pitching injuries showing up over the last year or two? Some bodies are breaking down. There aren’t as many flame throwers out there either. Look at Gange, saved 86 in a row and has been on the DL ever since. He’s had 4 or 5 surgeries. The only thing of note he’s done since his streak ended is sign a 10 million a year, 2 year deal, as well as serve up back-to-back homers to the Jones. Other than that, it’s forgetable.

By hk

July 11, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

Lew,

… MBATL can correct me when he returns, but it had nothing to do with RICO at all … MBATL is a Chipper supporter, and gets warn out a little every now and then over the criticism, (particularly of his intelligence) which has been going on since early in the season … he was making a serious point in that regard, you unknowingly made light of it … not a problem …

By DonCoburleone

July 11, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

HUDSON FOR BROXTON AND ETHIER/KEMP!!!

By KC

July 11, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul: Good post, you’re correct. JS hasn’t done anything becasue there’s been nothing out there that’s been worth doing. Plain and simple.

The fact of the matter is that there probably isn’t going to be any significant trade worth making to fix the bullpen. I think Ken Ray and the rest of the bullpen will do a decent job. And I actually think that will with the strength of our rotation, and the offense playing as it’s capable… a decent bullpen should be enough to get us past the likes of the Reds, Brewers, Philies, and others.

If you missed my earlier post, take another look at what we’ve got:

Ken Ray: 2.66

Chad Paronto: 2.93

Tyler Yates: 3.12

Kevin Barry: 0.00 (granted, only 9 innings pitched, but still impressive.)

Phil Stockman: 2.25 (only 4 innings pitched, but so far, so good for a great looking young pitcher).

Also, Macay McBride has an unimpressive 4.39 ERA overall, but left-handed hitters are hitting only .174 against him. Looks like we know who to bring in to get a lefty out.

Ya know, things are looking all that bad in the bullpen right now.

By KC

July 11, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this

Things *_aren’t*_ looking all that bad. Sorry.

By hk

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

John Hoar,

… well, I took the bait on your question yesterday, couldn’t resist … did a chart showing Braves record vs each team, home and away, first 89 games, and team schedule for the remaining 73 … projected wins and losses, based on W/L record of each opponent, home and away, performance first half vs same team, etc etc …

… came out 45-28 rest of season, 85-77 final record … enough for wild card ??? … 50/50 maybe …

click here for chart

By hk

July 11, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

… forgot to mention, Braves opponents were a total of 3 games under .500 first half … second half opponents have been 114 games under .500 so far !!!

… home vs away slightly better (44-45 vs 37-36) … alot easier second half …

By KC

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

HK: Have you sent you resume to Elias???

By hk

July 11, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

… funny, did a quick google on Elias, top item listed was a site for helping people suffering from trauma … hmmm, not a bad idea :))

By KC

July 11, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

HK: I was referring to Elias Sports Bureau (“The World’s Foremost Sports Statisticians”)

By hk

July 11, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

.. I know, much appreciated …

By journalist PENN

July 12, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this

A comment about John Thomson:

He seems to have trouble staying the course these days. He has blister problems after 4 or 5 inings. He has sweat problems after 4 or 5 pitches. And I’m not at all sure about the health of his toes.

I suggest he grow some hair or buy a good toupe (to soak up the sweat) and only pitch 2 or 3 innings in long relief or maybe only 1 in a setup role. That way he doesn’t have to worry so much about losing another game or working up a blister that is going to put him back on the DL. He does seem to lose his concentration when something goes wrong particularly a bad fielding play behind him.

Perhaps he could make a contribution from the pen but I don’t think he has the mental makeup for a closer and he is no longer a worthwhile starter.

journalist Bob, I missed your post about the nostalgia trip as they cut off that other thread.

journalist jimmy smith, I see you are running short of cheese. just grab a jar of cheez whiz, a big one, and your troubles with cheese and mustard will be over as if by magic. all you will need is a box of soda crackers.

journalist PENN was pleased to see our youngan get in the game tonight and catch an inning. what a thrill that must have been for him. even though it didn’t go through for a hit he at least made contact with Rivera’s pitch….more than some can say.

By jim

July 12, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

Isnt it sad that NYFAn has to keep posting on the Braves board. Unless the MEts win the division for 14 years in a row they have NOTHING to say to the Braves. Also that tired Very Very old starting pitching staff is starting to look its age. First team to blow a 13 game lead and lose the division.