AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2006 > July > 17 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USHot teams, temps in St. Louis
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Maybe it’s appropriate that the two hottest teams in the National League will clash in blast-furnace conditions the next three days. Appropriate or not, however, I’d much prefer getting on a plane and taking the Braves and Cardinals back out to San Diego to do this thing. But I don’t think that’s going to be possible. So we’ll endure.
From paradise to this — welcome to St. Louis, where it’s supposed to reach 100 degrees for the next three days, with the heat index an ungodly 110-115. If we don’t collapse, it should be a great series.
The Braves and Cardinals have the longest two active winning streaks in the NL — Braves five in a row, Cards seven in a row — and also have the best 10-game records. Each is 8-2 in the past 10.
Not only that, it’s also a clash of the hottest-hitting team in the majors and the team that’s pitching the best of late. Something’s gotta, give, as they say.
Braves hitters are as hot in July as, well, July. (Hey, I’m exhausted, so cut me some slack. Haven’t slept in a bed since Saturday night, after taking red-eye flight from San Diego through Atlanta to St. Louis).
They can’t keep this up, obviously. But enjoy it while it lasts, because Chipper and the boys are putting on a show. The Braves lead the majors in every major offensive category this month, including average (.341), homers (27), runs (98), OBP (.498) and slugging (.598). In a word, overwhelming.
They’re 9-3 this month, the league’s best record, despite a 5.03 ERA that’s right in the middle of the NL rankings for the month. They’ve already totaled more runs and homers this month than they did in all of June. The hitting can’t continue at this torrid pace all month (can it?) but the pitching can certainly improve.
The Cardinals have been getting huge offense from Albert Pujols, but mostly they’ve been getting lights-out pitching — a 2.34 ERA during their seven-game winning streak, and a 1.29 ERA (yes, 1.29) during their four-game sweep of the Dodgers that ended Sunday. They just destroyed L.A., outscoring Los Dodgers 21-6 in four games in sweltering conditions at Busch.
It’s supposed to be even hotter this week. If John Thomson were pitching, he might melt. But he’s not. Horacio and Hudson in the first two games against Angels reject Jeff Weaver (makes his first start tonight since traded to Cards) and ex-Brave Jason Marquis. Then either Schiell(or however it’s spelled; I’m too tired to look it up) or Cormier for the Braves against Cards ace Chris Carpenter.
Considering the matchups, the Braves need to win the first two to take this series. But any combination of four wins in this series and the four-gamer to follow at Philly would give the Braves a 7-3 trip after their sweep of the West-leading Padres. A 7-3 trip after a 7-3 homestand … trend?
Given what Weaver did with Angels (3-10, 6.29) and what Marquis has done against Braves (0-1, 10.80 in two starts against his old team), you might like the Braves chances in these first two games.
And as for Chipper’s extra-base hit streak … well, if he can get the record tonight with an extra-base hit for his 15th consecutive game, there’s a good chance he’ll extend it to 16 tomorrow: He’s 2-for-3 with two homers against Marquis, and Andruw Jones is 3-for-6 with three homers against him.
OK, gotta file this and get over to new, sweaty Busch…. Uh, to new Busch Stadium.
Comments
By Andy
July 17, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this
If the braves win three of four it would be a mircale. Pitching beats good hitting. The cards are having outstanding pitching—-GREAT defense, and really good hitting. I love the braves—and we can win 3 of 4. Our pitchers have to step up. Go Braves.
By Carolina Lady
July 17, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
DOB, again, kudos for the blog!
By Russ
July 17, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this
I hope JS is looking at some pitching help. The bats will slow down at some point so i hope there is a deal out there for the Braves. If the Braves hadn’t been so cheap in the off season we could have landed a premier closer and would not have to look at traded assets that the team now has. Sorry JS and Bobby but ya screwed up thinking Reitsma could pitch!
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 17, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this
DOB, any news on the trade front? Is Giles playing tonight?
DOB, how about this for a trade? We send the Cubs Betemit, Giles, and Langerhans for Williamson, Todd Walker, and Jacque Jones. If the Cubs balk at giving up Jones, we take Giles or Betemit off the table. How does that float?
What does everyone else think?
By ncscoots
July 17, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this
Andy, a slight correction, good pitching beats good hitting. I doubt the Braves are quivering with fear at the thought of facing Weaver and Marquis.
By Chop Chop
July 17, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this
I’m unimpressed with the Cards’ starting pitching. Even if they shut the Braves out in four straight games, I will still be unimpressed. Carpenter is the only guy they can truly count on right now. Marquis, Suppan and Weaver don’t strike fear into my heart. Reyes may be good, but he’s still young and can’t be counted on to fill one of the top two spots. With Mulder seemingly on the shelf for a while (and he was God-awful before that), the Cards are going to need a starter or three if they want to go deep into the playoffs. In fact, the Cards are a prime example of why the NL is so weak this year. If that team played in the AL, they’d probably be a .500 team at best.
As far as the Braves go, they’re following the same sort of script they’ve followed all year: When they hit, they don’t pitch. When they pitch, they don’t hit. They’re going to have to put the hitting AND the pitching together from here on out to make the playoffs. I personally don’t think they have any realistic chance to catch the Mets. When you’ve been red-hot for a while now and you’re still 12 games back, that’s a good indication of where your hopes lie (wild-card). Granted, the Braves have moved into second place, but that should tell you how bad the NL East is. The Phillies are looking to unload players, the Nationals are looking to next year and the Marlins are now playing their age.
As Smoltz said, the Braves need a trade or two to strengthen the bullpen…er, team. Also, Hudson needs to remove head from a*s and start pitching well. If those two things happen, the Braves have a great shot to make the playoffs. Otherwise, it’ll be awfully tough to overcome those holes.
By Carolina Lady
July 17, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this
I apologize to all for the multi-post on the previous blog. The site kept saying that an error had occurred. Had nooooo idea that my repeated attempts to post would indeed be posted! Live and learn, kiddo! :-)))
By ncscoots
July 17, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this
aaah, what the heck, CL, yours weren’t the only ones, and at least yours are readable. These days, I seem to do more scrolling than reading.
By elbravo x
July 17, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this
San Diego was very classy to us, now if the Spirit of St. Louis can be as nice! Introduced Field of Dreams to my 8 year old nephew in San Diego, then went to all three games. He IS Mr. baseball now! The Spirit of St. Louis will fly our way. DOB=- YOU DA MAN!
By geauxbraves2000
July 17, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this
The only SP I trust right now is Smoltz, the rest are a crap shoot. It sure is good to see the offensive put up some awesome numbers, and hopefully they can keep it up until the SP comes around. You just never know which pitcher is going to show up. And then if the good Hudson or the good Ramirez shows up, will they keep it together for 7 or 8 or 9 innings, or will they blow up in the middle of the game. Very frustrating.
But, bottom line, I’ve been a Braves fan since the early 80s and will continue to be a Braves fan even if they become cellar dwellers. (see the late 80s)
Geaux Braves!!
By Kevin C
July 17, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this
Robert
Way to much to give up for players that are not as good as what we have—I like Williamson but Jones has a bog contract I beleive and I am not a Todd Walker fan—look for trades to come by from minor league players—I read Olney today and he said players like Torres and hernandez were being valued at C-B-prospects. Philles want to much for Gordan
By The Grinch
July 17, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this
I am now back and suitably full of BBQ. Thanks for the blog, DOB; hard to imagine it’s hotter up there than here, but it must be so. Did they serve gravy on that red-eye flight? Evil Freudian slip at the end of the column… Carolina Lady, whatever did you imagine I said on the previous blog to turn your perception of me upside-down? My intentions are always honorable, except when I’m being devious. I’m going to break this post up into several, so it doesn’t look like the end of that previous blog; man, I thought I was listening to my mother there for a minute there were so many repeats!
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this
I think Smoltz was out of line with his comments about the need to make a trade. Whichever relievers are on the fringe had to take that as a vote of no-confidence from a teamate. It’s one thing for him to speak to Scheurholz or Cox about it, but not right to say it publicly. Not the end of the world, but not a good idea.
DOB, any idea whether Will Startup might be coming to provide some help in the bullpen? I noticed that he tore up AA, and is off to a good start at Richmond.
By Solomon
July 17, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this
Dear Lord if I could have one wish it would be for you to knock some sense into John Scherholtzes and get us a REAL major league baseball reliver and not independent and minor league players that can’t go two appearences with giving up 10 runs. PLEASE I’m begging you, my heart can’t take this kind of stress everyday.
By Vol
July 17, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this
Did I see right that we are not on TBS until July 27!!! These are some big games coming up.
I know we are on ESPN tonight. Does anyone know if we’ll be on again in the next ten days?
By geauxbraves2000
July 17, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this
BTW Carolina Lady, I know I’m not yet one of the regulars, but I’ve read many many posts on this site, really enjoyed most of them, especially JJS, Lew, The Grinch, and others that I’m unintentionally failing to add, and while they are all great, yours are the classiest.
That’s all.
Geaux Braves!!
By Chop Chop
July 17, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this
Stanford, Will Startup is 1-1 with a 5.79 ERA at Richmond now. He started off well there, but he’s been smacked around since (28 hits allowed in 18.2 IP with a .337 BAA). I have a feeling that we won’t see him in Atlanta this year, which is probably a good thing…and I bleed red and black.
By MGL
July 17, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this
I posted this on the previous blog for anyone who might be interested in Joey Devine’s progress but the blog seemed to lock up for most of the afternoon. Anyway, here it is again.
http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/mld/myrtlebeachonline/sports/baseball/15045118.htm
By KC
July 17, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this
My grandfather used to quote the old weather lore: “Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. Red sky in the morning, sailor’s warning”.
I’ve never really put this adage to the test, so I can’t tell you whether or not the color of the sky can tell you the next day’s whether, but I believe what we see over the next couple of nights could in fact serve as a forecast for the rest of the season.
Heracio and Huddy are the key. If they come through tonight and tomorrow to help the Braves take this crucial series, that will be a very, very good omen.
We don’t have a fifth starter right now, and we can’t lean on Chuck James who is still adjusting to big league ball. So that means our top three guys have got to be on their games.
Obviously, Hudson is essential to Atlanta’s hopes to go anywhere this season. But Heracio Ramirez is also an extremely important piece. Heracio was impressive over a nice little stretch of starts, before getting shelled in his last outing. If Ramirez can rebound tonight and quiet the hot Cardinals bats, that will be a great sign. That would be enough to convince me the HoRam has finally come into his own… that he’s the real deal.
If Ramirez struggles tonight, or if Huddy’s struggles continue tomorrow… I will not banking betting any money on the Braves for a Wild Card berth.
By Vol
July 17, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this
For those who don’t get TS or FSS and are interested, there is an ESPN Sunday night game vs. Philly. The next TBS game (Thursday, July 27) is at 1PM. Same as not being shown to me.
By elbravo x
July 17, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this
I just remember, Mike and Mike talked about Chipper and the Braves. Also the blogger Onsley said positive things about the Braves. DOB, you know you are going to go on national T.V. if the Braves keep this up!! The Spirit of St. Louis will be on our side…
By Chop Chop
July 17, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this
Baseball America
You can look up any minor league team (from AAA to Rookie ball) on that site. Very useful.
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, I must have stumbled on an old stat sheet by accident. You’re right, his numbers have tumbled lately. Thanks.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 17, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this
I know giving up Betemit and Giles is a lot but what are the chances Giles would be here beyond next year and Betemit to me is worth giving up for a decent reliever. Todd Walker is not a world beater but he certainly could fill in the leadoff spot and Jacque Jones is a quality player. We have a ton of young infielders that could take over next year for Giles and Betemit on the bench. Besides we would definitely have the opportunity to get a good leadoff hitter in the offseason.
By The Grinch
July 17, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this
Journalist Bob, I assure you that while I might have been able to jog to Twin City from Swainsboro during my middle linebacker days (Druid Hills in the house!), my 5’10 270 pound butt wouldn’t make it from the city limits sign to Hadden’s junkyard in this heat without a stroke. I know; I was just at Gold’s an hour and a half ago and I got embarrased on the bench by a guy who looked like Frank Purdue. My grandfather was a big Grizzard fan, and I saluted them both when stuffing my face with mashed potatos a little while ago. I sincerely hope you get to achieve your dream of being reincarnated onto Grant field; I just hope it’s not as a Tech player during the annual in-state beating! :-) I’m about to leave to go visit my dad this evening, and since he doesn’t care for baseball (he’s old and grinchy), I’ll have to rely on y’all to fill me in. I predict this to be a high-scoring series, and much tums and nerve-pills consumed by all. By the way, Suds; I feel I must warn you that if you say something polite, or god help you, gallant, to any of the lovely women on this blog, you will be accused of being an opportunistic lech and sexual predator by some of the more juvenile and sociologically frustrated members of this blog…be prepared!
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this
Well I’ve never seen nothin like it before!
All of us folks repeating ourselves like that … you’d think we were proud of what we said or somethin’ … Scoots! Speaking of repeating, how many times do I have to tell folks that I’m an old wreck, not an old dog … stop spreading rumors!
Jimmy, what Mrs. Bob doesn’t know won’t hurt Mr. Bob!
By Chop Chop
July 17, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this
No problem, Stanford.
I was actually wondering about Startup the other day and checked those stats out. After the “Devine debacle” last year, I think the Braves might have learned a lesson about high college draft picks. After all, it’s been a while since they’ve picked pitchers like that so highly in the draft and expected them to be ready so soon.
By The Grinch
July 17, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this
Bob, when you talk a lot, do you consider yourself a “ramblin’ wreck?” Hee-hee! And what’s this I hear about burned garlic toast? Have you and toast finally broke down and settled your differences?
By tvsportscaster
July 17, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this
DOB just for your info, Shiell is without the c, he’s from my hometown of Savannah, and considering the fact, that he was scratched from his scheduled start at Richmond Saturday Night, I would guess he’s the man, plus Brian Snitker is and has been high on him since his first stint in the Braves system, and furthermore, Cormier, been there, done that.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this
bbq and toes, with a little baseball mixed in. journalist jimmy smith would like to publish the following poem for carolina lady. caution: this one is not keats.
this little piggy (a traditional toe tickling rhyme) - - - this little piggy went to market, this little piggy stayed home, this little piggy had roast beef, this little piggy had none, this little piggy went wee, wee, wee all the way home.
thank you.
By The Grinch
July 17, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this
Thank you for the kind words, GeaxBraves! It’s nice to know that I’m not boring all but three or four people. Not that that would stop me…:-)
By Carolina Gent
July 17, 2006 05:27 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t have put it better, GB. I’m in the same boat. Read the blog daily, and LOVE the discussions. Since I feel like (all of) my viewpoints are represened, I let others do the blogging for me. But wanted to same something about Mark Bradley’s column. I think he has a point. It took the Braves years to build up its farm system from the woeful days of the 80’s and early 90’s, and we’ve kept dealing prospects for 1/2 year rental recently. If JS can pull off a McGriff-type deal and have someone signable (and worthy) for additional years, let’s make a trade. But peeling off prospects to upgrade this team only slightly will not help anything — it will just make the Braves weaker in years to come. I’m really enjoying watching this team right now, hope they keep it up. But the pitching must come around. By the way, wonderful work, DOB. Your dedication to the bloggers (and readers-only) is admirable!
By Lew
July 17, 2006 05:30 PM | Link to this
Carolina Lady-when the error thing occurs, just hit the back button-it has already posted. Robert, I wouldn’t give up Giles, Betemit or anyone without getting pitching in return. I will repeat my rant-it ain’t Chipper, LaRoche, leadoff hitter or left fielder that’s caused our problems, it’s the pitching. Don’t bend over in the garden granny. (that’s not a reference to Carolina Lady,I hope y’all realize).
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 05:32 PM | Link to this
DOB: Nice post. So wait a minute. Is this a 3 game set or a 4 game set? I thought it was a 3 game set. If we take the first two, we’d win the match. And I think the Braves will.
I’ll tell anyone and everyone that good pitching beats good hitting, but I’m not convinced these guys are all that good in the pitching department. I wouldn’t put it past them to be better than the Braves, but… Well Peavy was supposed to be good. He was rocked. Young was on a good little dominate streak, he was rocked. I think this will be a slug fest. The Cards lineup is missing the pop it had in the past, but that shouldn’t matter. Hudson pitching means slug fest. Hudson on short rest, that’s a coin toss. So far this year he’s been lights out on short rest. We shall see.
As for the Braves hitting. They’re on fire. I have every bit of confidence Chipper Jones will mop the floor with this team as he has with every other team in the past 3 weeks.
GO BRAVES!!
By The Grinch
July 17, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this
Oh, my. The muse is spurring people on in rare form today! Carolina Lady is going to have to get a 10-gallon hat from all the attention she’s recieving…I hope Carolina Man does not read this blog! Fixing to saddle up; I’ll check back with y’all in a bit.
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, regarding Red ‘n Black… me too. Go Dawgs!
I agree with you on draft strategy. We did draft the Oregon State guy, Gunderson, who was the college WS closer. And a guy from Tech, and one from Statesboro. I know Gunderson was a senior, but don’t know about the others.
Either way, not the kind of high-round investment we made in Devine last year, certainly. We seem to do better getting them early and developing them.
I still have a lot of hope for Devine. Thanks to MGL for the update.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this
high brow blog? with little piggy, sousemeat, crows, johnny cash, and toes? jimmy smith thinks not! “this blog is your blog, this blog is jimmy smith’s blog, this blog was made for you and for journalist(s)” (singing that would be appropriate). now, it is believed that dob is now at the stadium and a report would be timely and helpful. dob, what is the general toe and thumb health of the braves team tonight?
By Lew
July 17, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this
DOB- you have my sympathy. It’s 94 degrees here in central Vermont and we have no air conditioning. Me too, GO DAWGS.
By Kevin C
July 17, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this
Robert
Very true about Giles but more can be had for him during the winter than during the year, IF they decide to go that route. The problem is so many teams want and need pitching. Borowski name was mentioned today in a chat about moving him to Toronto as a set up man, so that should tell anyone what the state of pitching is in the majors. Lew is correct that our pitching has been at best mediocare this year, while I still am not a Laroche fan, Hudson has hurt the team more because he is expected to pitch better than his numbers indict and his PAY is what many consider a one or two starter. I think more trdaes will occur net week as the deadline gets closer, one bad wek in the AL can kill a team or a good one in the NL can give hope where there was none.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this
Grinch, I can relate … but do remember this … you know it’s much better to be known as a sexy senior citizen than a dirty old man. Now that you’ve shared the size of one part of your anatomy … how about the rest? I’m guessing your heart is bigger than that other part!
Me thinks that geauxbraves2000 is trying to turn My Lady’s head, but he’ll soon learn that she’s more than just classy, she’s de primeira classe elegante in every sense of the word.
By ZB Pike
July 17, 2006 06:09 PM | Link to this
why does everyone always justify how long they have been a braves fan?? :)
By David O'Brien
July 17, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this
Andy and others: This is a three-gamer, Philly a four-gamer. I know I could’ve worded it a little better, but actually, if you re-read, I think what I said was correct. Any combination of four wins in this series (three-game series) and the “four-gamer to follow in Philly,” is what I said.
So, say, they go 1-2 here and 3-1 in Philly. It’s a 7-3 trip. Or 2-1 here and 2-2 in Philly. 7-3 trip.
Anyway … Lew, 94 in Vermont? Man, good thing there’s no such thing as global warming, right? Otherwise, I’d be concerned about how the planet seems to feel like it’s approaching incineration.
THIS JUST IN: not good test for Giles today. took one swing and pulled plug on that test. too sore. no play, at least another day.
Yes, it will be Shiell starting wednesday, barring something unforseen. they’ll announce it tomorrow.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this
Weaver has struggled against the AL, but career-wise he has been pretty good against the Braves. I see the Braves having climate-shock in this game and being worn-out by the 5th inning. The Braves just spend 4 days in San Diego. It was like 85 degrees with 5% humidity. Now they are going to 100+ degrees with 80 frickin’ percent humidity. Tough thing to do (see Dodgers 4 game debacle). I think this will be a low-scoring matchup and a coinflip as to who wins.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this
DOB thanks a bunch for keeping these blogs alive! And, by the way, did you have a chance to do any partying in the gaslamp over the weekend??? I was keeping an eye out for ya when I was bar-hopping… What a game Friday night!!! I almost had a nervous breakdown 3 or 4 times…
By Andy
July 17, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this
Thanks dave—-ncscoots—I agree except I was thinking(didn’t say it completly though)of the cards starters AND pen—they both are pitching well. The braves 4 starters are above water—doing okay—considering the 5 (not including Ray) pen guys who at times are (at times) trying to pull them under the water.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this
And, I must admit, I was jumpin’ on the Chipper bashin’ bandwagon a few weeks back (and he was playing horrible for the record) but boy has he made me put my foot right in my mouth… Way to go Chipper, unbelievable streak he’s on right now. I mean, to raise your batting average 60 points in about 3 weeks is just remarkable…
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this
will it be betemit? or will it be pete orr? what other surprises await? journalist wishes chipper very good luck tonight.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this
Seriously Jimmy, who called us high brows? We have a few characters that remind me a bit of old John L Lewis … but his were bushy, not high.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this
journalist is concerned that giles has “pulled a plug” … that sounds like a serious injury. perhaps doc is reading the blog tonight. doc, just what is the pulled plug and how long will giles be out with it? is there a remedy? does it involve sitting in listerine?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this
anybody out there ever pulled a plug when swinging? can the plug be replaced? jimmy smith would want a surgeon to replace the plug - and journalist would never touch the plug. exactly what is a pulled plug? c’mon doc, fill us in.
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this
Anybody else like to see us start Thorman full time. I know he’s a little bit of a defensive liability in the outfield but I believe if he’s in there everyday we’ll find out we have the power hitting left fielder we’ve been seeking.
By brian
July 17, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this
it will be interesting to see if Giles stays in St. Louis and Wainright comes with the Braves to Philly
There are only 2 good things about Philly - the Cheesesteak and Rocky Balboa. OK one, Rocky was of course just in a movie
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this
ZB Pike, I can understand you question … but for some of us, it’s a way to keep our mind sharp … we need all the help we can get … and besides, I think that being a Braves fan for 60 years is something of which to be proud!
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this
Mike from the coast, I was just thinking sort of the same thing. Thorman has the best bat of the bunch. And, when your pitchers are serving up batting practice, defense in LF becomes a little less of a priority. Kind of like putting $4000 worth of wheels on an ‘84 chevy.
We can’t afford a disaster in left field, but if he can hold his own, I say play him.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 06:55 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, I accidently pulled the plug once … listening to Jazz while taking a bath … does that count? It made so much noise I could barely hear the music … plugs are another thing with which you shouldn’t trifle! Spiders, snakes, toes, and plugs … and since everyone is repeating themselves today, I’ll say it again, rumcake is a different trifle!
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this
I like global warming. It helps keep down the cooling costs. Plus, I saw that the earth is as hot as it was 2000 years ago… I wonder what they did 1900 years ago to get the world to cool off. I guess they just parked all their SUVs and started riding bikes. If things work out right… endless summer. That would mean non-stop baseball.
GO BRAVES
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 07:07 PM | Link to this
I can’t say that I agree with the honorable Stanford. I like young Mr. Thorman … and Diaz too, but when pitching is a problem, they need all the defensive help they can get!
That being said, we don’t need no trades … not of our non-pitching position players … they’re really a good group. That ain’t no bandwagon talk neither!
Game and supper time!
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 07:07 PM | Link to this
Let’s go HoRam! Let’s go Braves! Beat those Red Terds!
By Carolina Lady
July 17, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this
Well, I tell you what! Somebody go get me that 10-gallon hat!
It’s a good thing this ol’ girl knows herself pretty well and (in spite of this ridiculously huge grin) knows that the beautiful flowers cast her way aren’t truly deserved - but loves them anyway! I think there’s even a touch of a blush there.
Friend (earlier): “Well, you look like you’re feeling good today!” Me: “Yeah!” Friend: “What you been doin’?” Me: “Reading the Braves blog.” Friend: puzzled stare…..
:-))))
Anyway! Lew, I did hit the back button, but apparently the system was really messed up. After I had given up, I was surprised and embarrassed to find all my attempts posted. If that’s the worst thing that happens to me, I’ve got it made, don’t I?? :-))
Awwww, Jimmy! You shouldn’t have. Really. (rofl)
Grinch, that specific person departed MANY years ago. My life is my own - right after I take care of mother, daughter, and a whole raft of animals ….. :-))
Game time!!!! :-)))))))
Y’all want some brownies? Just baked some!
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 07:13 PM | Link to this
Bob, journalist, I may have stated that a little strongly. But I do think that if you’re going to pay to have Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, etc pitching, then you put all remaining resources into providing superb defense, and let them win. If your pitching is not so strong, you need to score runs and that means putting your best hitters in the lineup. That was my thinking, if not well expressed.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this
I agree with Thorman over Langerhans. Ryan just hasn’t been hitting all year, and when you’ve got a glove like he’s got it’s perfect coming off the bench. Thorman’s swing is already the prettiest on the team, don’t know how a hitter with a swing like that won’t produce at the Major League level.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this
It is difficult to watch Pujols bat against the Braves, I am for walking him every time he comes up…
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, Skip Carey was saying before the game started that the press box at the new Busch Stadium where the beat writers sit doesn’t have air-conditioning. Skip said it’s like 130 degrees in there, is that where you sit?
By nathan
July 17, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this
so let me get this right……JS would make a trade for Dan Kolb, but won’t go to 2 years for Todd Jones?
Yeah, he’s a genius.
Don’t get me wrong, Todd Jones is no Mariano Rivera, but he’s WAY BETTER than anybody we’ve used this season.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this
We need to score first in this game…
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this
just when you get going good, you pull a plug. turn a toe, twist a thumb, harm an arm. let’s hope they remain healthy for the rest of the year. brownies?
By nathan
July 17, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this
here we go again……teams that are pitching around andruw to “get to” McCann
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
oh, man! mccann!
great at-bat!
By hk
July 17, 2006 08:08 PM | Link to this
… way to go McCann !!!
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 08:08 PM | Link to this
did McCann just slam weaver??? lol…
By MEB
July 17, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
All Star Brian Mccann a grand slam, thank you very much. Of course, his room mate follows with a triple. GO BRAVES!!!
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
Crap..I need to get that mlb online…this sucks not being able to see braves games that are not on tbs.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this
OOOHHHHHHHH!!!!!! McCann!!!! What an amazing at bat! He fought off so many pitches.
GO BRAVES!!
And Francoeur tripled to follow!
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this
Calvin, it’s on ESPN you should be able to get it, or are you in an area where it’s blacked out?
Go McCann!!!!
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this
No. I moved to Canada last year with my significant other and they don’t get espn up here. They have TSN which is a rip off. They show some ESPN games but not tonight because the Bluejays are playing..yuk.
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this
let’s go braves!!!!!!!!!!!leT’S GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LET GET TODD JONES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this
GET THE MLB PACKAGE I PAID $125 I THINK
By Beachcomber
July 17, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this
What a clout Brian Mc! Just like Todd’s been teaching you all season.
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this
What an at-bat. Jeff Tuborg pointed out how Weaver was huffing and puffing, looking tired, feeling that St. Louis heat, and Brian kept fouling balls off. I think Weaver had to groove one just to end the at-bat. Wow!
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this
Well, Calvin if you have sound capabilities on your computer, there are ways to get the radio broadcast. Not sure of all the connections but I think if you go to atlantabraves.com you can find the links. Someone else here may be able to help you more. For the record the score’s 5-0 braves, French tripled, missed him scoring, top of 3rd at the moment.
Dang, Horam walks the pitcher.
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
No ESPN, now that is unNorth American.
HoRam gets out of the inning.
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
McCann is the new Chipper.
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
CALL YOUR CABLE PROVIDER THEY MIGHT BREAK UP THE PAYMENTS.THAT WAY U DON’T HAVE TO COME UP WITH THE $125 OR SO
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
Yea mike, Sometimes they have the game on wgst, the atlantabraves radio network but no tonight. Anyway, I usually follow the games that are not on TBS via the gamecast on atlantabraves.com.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this
Calvin … MLB.com - Multimedia - Gameday audio
By chris
July 17, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this
6-0 Braves Betemit homers
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this
Leave Giles on the bench, you go WB
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this
Calvin, I meant to say that MLB.com is carrying the game via WGST … right now, live, as we speave … so to speak. The regular WGST broadcast network outside of the Atlanta area is probably blacked out … it usually is when the game is carried on ESPN.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 08:31 PM | Link to this
Told you … Buttermint is the man! Calvin … don’t ask me what “speave” means … twern’t nothin’ intended!
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this
i THINK WE SHOULD GET TODD JONES AND BOB WICKMAN.LIKE THAT WE COULD SHORTEN THE GAME,THE SAME WAY THE YANKEES DID WITH RIVERA AND WETTLAND
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this
AND WE DON’T HAVE TO SACRAFICE THE FARM FOR THEM
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this
yea..i tried the mlb.com thing before but you have to pay for it and such. If I am gonna do that, I might as well get the live video feed..
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, I think what we say on this blog has a great infulence on how the Braves play … so I hope everyone is careful about what they say, especially about trades! You’ll notice how I’ve cut back on the big words … that’a a lot of the reason for it … I’m told that Chipper actually has someone read the blogs to him each day before the game!
How does he seem, Larry that is … I’m listening but all little Skip said was that the foul ball hit the same toe that was giving him problems.
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this
Mr. McCann is a lucky man. Erin Andrews with her arm around him, that shirt, Damn…
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this
Calvin, yes I think that the audio is something like a nickel a day … not bad when you have access to all the games for every team, including archives.
By JJMB
July 17, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this
Please don’t bench WB, Bobby. Please don’t put the midget back in when he’s “healthy.”
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this
WB—you tha man.
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this
ERIN ANDREWS AND MCCANN ARE A COUPLE?WOOGIDY
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 08:54 PM | Link to this
yea…i will get it tommorrow…The braves are thumping the Cards right now tho.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this
Calviv, one more error on my part … I have an old multi-year subscription that was 9.95 for the season (about .06 a game) but I see it’s now 14.95 (about .09 a game) … probably cause they throw in a SI subscription for “free” … still, a dime to hear the game live ain’t bad!
By Max
July 17, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this
NICE DOUBLE PLAY BY HORAM
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this
iF WE WIN TONIGHT THE LEAD WOULD BE 11.5
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this
I’ve got to miss a couple of innings … would somebody send Chipper some Listerine … he needs to get serious and focus on getting an extra base hit!!
By Beachcomber
July 17, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this
Re: the MLB Audio. You also get a bunch of spring training games which after a long, cold winter, I caught myself listening to Oakland Cubs spring training games at the office. Not many Braves spring games but a few.
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this
max, no MR. McCann, Brian’s dad, was being interviewed by Erin Andrews. She had her arm around him while she was asking the questions.
By FrontRunner
July 17, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this
The Braves are an inigma. Inigma. Pure and simple. They’re written off by many, including me, from past seasons only to rally, make the playoffs, then fall short.
Put some emphasis on the “FALLING SHORT” comment? The team’s past playoff appearance record in the NL playoffs is nothing short of miraculous. No debate.
As a stanch Braves fan, I’m ready for the Jim Morrison move. You know that one, don’t you? “Break on through to the other side.” I thought so.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this
This day will be perfect when Chipper smacks his extra base hit.
On a different note: Thinking about the comment from the other day about Andy Marte playing well enough to make the Renteria trade look bad… Would anyone go for a three team trade which brought Linebrink to Atlanta and sent Yunal Escobar to another team, of which that team trades a peice to San Diego? To me, that would be a cool move. Yunal, as good as he may one day be, is “blocked” by Renteria who is a free agent by the time Elvis should be ready. It would assume Elvis will develope well and turn out as good as or better than everyone hopes. The obvious up side is, we get Linebrink.
Way to go Francoeur! This offense is on fire!
GO BRAVES
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this
THANX FOR THE INFO WOOGIDY
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 09:09 PM | Link to this
Before I leave, I wanted to say howdy to MBATL … I doubt that he’ll acknowledge the greeting, but there ain’t no way he’d miss this fun!
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this
Man oh man. Some pitcher is going to get hurt on a liner the way these guys are going.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this
WB IN ON FUEGO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this
I think Betemit wants to continue starting lol. The Braves are destroying the Cards tonight…4 straight games of 10+ runs…woot.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this
FUEGO MEANS FIRE IN SPANISH
By MEB
July 17, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this
Calvin… just a suggestion but I recommend that if all you want is audio go with XM radio. Every MLB game plus all the other sports, music, news, comedy, etc for $12.95 a month. Each game is carried with the home team announcers. Some complain about this but I like to listen to the other guys and get their opinions and outlooks. I love my portable XM radio!
What I really love is hammering the Cards 13-1. I may have spoke to soon because in trots Sosa. YIKES!!!
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this
OH NO SOSA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!IT’S A NIGHTMARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this
How is Sosa going to blow an 12 run lead? Think he’ll take a page from the Cubs book?
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this
The offense must have known jorge was going to pitch tonight. C’mon Braves all you need is a couple more runs to win this one!!
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this
wilson betemit must have been the one that pulled the plug from giles! man, what a game he is having!
oh, the humanity! something is wrong with horacio! oh, no … sosa! how big is the lead?
bobby should pull the plug on sosa if someone gets on. inigma? have anything to do with the plug?
By Glass Half Full
July 17, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this
The longer Wilson plays 2nd and puts up 3 or 4 hits a night, the more expendable Giles becomes.
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
uh oh..There has been a Jorge Sosa siteing…oh crap.
By David
July 17, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
Come on, HR is hurt and this a chance for Sosa to get back on track …
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
SOSA WILL FIND A WAY TO BLOW THIS BELEIVE YOU ME!!!!!!!
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this
leadoff double. quick, bobby - pull the plug!
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this
Ramirez is hurt?
By Lew
July 17, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe he could blow a 12 run lead. Not even Sosa could do that. Please, no. Please. Please.
By JJMB
July 17, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
Down to a 11 run lead…
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
one run already.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
TRADE HIM 2 JAPAN OR SOMETHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this
now, two doubles. bobby cox is very shrewd. he is trying to get the cardinals to pull hamstrings on the basepaths. pull the plug, bobby!
By Beachcomber
July 17, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this
Lordy beans! This another guy whose head is messed up like Reitsma. We need to do both a favor and give them a chance somewhere else.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this
HORAM MIGHT HAVE PULLED A MUSCLE
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this
SOSA MUST FEEL LIKE S*T I MEAN HE CAN’T BE ANY WORSE
By David
July 17, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this
Did you notice BC came out a chewed on him … WOW!
By Lew
July 17, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this
No please, no.
By JJMB
July 17, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
CHIPPER extra base, baby. Hit it!
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 17, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
Well, boys and girls, we could be seeing the last of Sosa in a Braves’ uniform. (Thankfully!)
I don’t know why Bobby was upset but he was obviously very steamed. I don’t really think he had to have Renteria come in to translate because that messgae came through loud and clear.
That is the kind of thing I like to see. The lead is never to big nor the deficit to large that these guys shouldn’t play hard no matter what. I think Bobby knows this team has righted the ship and he is not about to let the likes of Sosa mess this up.
I personally think this a** clown should have been released after that game Friday night.
If I were Sosa I would find another way into that dugout.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
WOW DID MY EYES SEE A STRIKEOUT BY SOSA?
By David
July 17, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
After the chewing …he picthed better at least for the remainder of this inning!!!
By Lew
July 17, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
Only three innings left and a 12 run lead. I’m able to breathe again.
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
It actually makes sense to pitch Sosa when you can. Look at how desperate teams are for pitching. If Sosa could have a couple of good outings, some GM might think he’s found himself, and actually offer us something for him. It’s a long shot, but ahead by 12, what do you have to lose? Hope he does well, so we can get something for him!
By MEB
July 17, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
Did you see Puhols talk to Sosa as he came off the mound. He seemed to be telling him to keep his head up and act like a professional ball player. WOW!!!
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
First Bobby says something to Jorge, and then Pujols when he is walking off the field… That whole sequence was just weird. What did Sosa do that was so wrong? I mean honestly, he only gave up one run.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
So that’s what it takes. It takes Bobby, a translator, and a threat. Sosa shows up. Sosuck departs.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this
The boys better get a few more hits so Chipper gets another shot.
Let’s go Andruw!
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this
I guess Chipper’s name goes in the record books, as tied with Waner. Not bad. That’s a pretty special record. Kind of like Dimaggio’s 56 but without the season-long fanfare and stress.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 17, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this
I bet Sosa was complaining about having to come in to do mop up work. And one thing about Bobby he doesn’t like to have players try showing him up or being defiant about being asked to perform a role. What Sosa has to understand is that he and he alone put himself in this position. He had the opportunity to basically be the #3 starter and he has had the chance to be closer.
I know one thing. If Sosa complains again, he will find himself in Greenville. Not even Richmond. Heck, mayber Myrtle Beach.
By MEB
July 17, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this
I tell you what I respect is Pujols making an effort to encourage a fellow Dominican. I wonder if they knew each other prior to coming to this country.
By JJMB
July 17, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
10 run lead….
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
FORGET MYRTLE BEACH.TRADE HIS BEHIND
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 17, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this
Unfortunately, Max, I don’t think any GM in their right mind would take him right now. Sosa is a head case. He is untradeable. Releasing him is a much better option.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this
PROBABLY NOT MEB REMEMBER PUJOLS PLAYED HIGH SCHOOL IN KANSAS CITY
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this
Good posts about what went on out there, Robert and MEB. This guy does appear to be going down in flames. Hope he’s saved his money.
By Dean
July 17, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this
I wouldn’t release him….send him to Richmond to work on things and get his head right. He does have the stuff to be a Major League pitcher …look at what he did last year
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
Well with the homerun by Laroche, Chipper will get up again.
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
I got goosebumps watching these guys hit lately.
By JJMB
July 17, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
Torborg called it about LaRoche’s “look” this game.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
Robert: It is a sad thing to say, but Greenville is no longer a part of the Braves family. The team moved to Mississippi.
By Dean
July 17, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
Done #issed Sosa off…he just went 20 rows back…lol
By Glass Half Full
July 17, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
That’s those words of encouragement from Pujols rubbing off on Sosa. 3 hits all year, all homeruns.
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
omg..did Sosa just hit a homer?
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
Put sosa in left.
By Max
July 17, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
DEAN YOU ARE RIGHT.HE MIGHT HAVE TO STAY THERE A WHILE BECAUSE SUCKS.TRY HIM AT A POSITION BECAUSE HE COULD HIT BETTER THEN HE PITCHES LOL!!!!!!!!!!
By nathan
July 17, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
It’s sure a good thing Sosa can hit!!! LOL
You have to admit, he’s got the best “homerun pose” after he swings on the Braves.
I’m tellin ya, I said it before…..get him out of the pen and let him hit off the bench. He’s probably got more natural “pop” than Sammy Sosa!!
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
Well Tennessee Paul, with the way he’s pitched lately, he may wind up in Greenville anyway LOL.
Nice Homerun by him though, that’s 3 this season I think.
By Glass Half Full
July 17, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this
Sosa should do like Rick Ankiel did before his season-ending injury this season…forget about pitching and try playing the outfield. He was signed as a position player originally by the Rockies, I think.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this
better than pete orr! more powerful than pratt! sosa is a hitter! anyone think giles’ plug is doing better? c’mon chipper - hit the ball hard and run like the hartebeest!
By Max
July 17, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
YOUR FUNNY WOOGIDY!!!
By Bryan
July 17, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
Wow, that’s the best thing for sosa - getting that reception in the dug out… maybe this is the game that turns it around for him.
Dave, CD is in the mail tomorrow. Thanks for telling the guys how to hit.
Bryan
By MEB
July 17, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
Max… your probably right and with a little investigation, Jorge is almost 3 years older.
Wow, speaking of Sosa that is a mammoth homerun. I like the silent treatment the Braves bench gave him. 433 feet tale of the tape.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this
Good for Bobby! Now he needs to get on Chipper about that extrabase hit!! I told you guys about the Buttermint Babe long, long time ago!!!
No one should be surprised … remember, the last 3 games were in a pitcher’s park against a mighty fine pitching staff … eat blue worms, Mark Bradley!!!!
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 10:05 PM | Link to this
Who we rooting for tomorrow, Reds or Mets?
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 10:05 PM | Link to this
These ESPN guys have been so friggin boring.
And is it just me, or are they really laying into Sosa?
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
Way to stand on the mound, Sosa!
Bobby is gonna beat his A$$ when he gets back in the dugout!
As a matter of fact, I would actually enjoy that. He just doesn’t get it, does he?
I’m guessing his days as a Brave are just about over.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this
Man, I love that Erin Andrews of ESPN, wow. Why don’t they just show her non-stop in these blow out games? Parade her around in a bikini - It’s hot enough…
By Calvin
July 17, 2006 10:09 PM | Link to this
Now what did Sosa do?
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this
Sosa will probably sign with the White Sox and Guillen will get into his head, get him on track, and we’ll be blogging in 2009 about how we let Sosa get away. Sometimes things just are not a good fit.
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
I think it is a win-win situation there woogidy, I wouldn’t mind seeing the Braves cut the lead to 8 or 9 going into the upcoming series against the Muts. Even if we could just get close and scare ‘em, that would be great…
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
Tennessee Paul……they should be laying into his LAZY A$$!
It’s bad enough when you pretty much suck when you’ve been handed the closer’s roll. Take it and run with it! But then when you go into a pouting routine over coming in to mop up (frankly the only time he should be trusted to pitch & even that’s questionable), but then to get lazy and not cover the bag! GO AWAY PLEASE!!!!
I can see the story online tomorrow, the headline will read:
Sosa let’s Bobby know that he hasn’t been able to feel his brain since May. Which explains all the mental errors and stupid pitching! Then he will be placed on the DL (wink, wink……ALA: Chris “I can’t feel my hands & and aint gonna tell nobody” Reitsma)
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 10:11 PM | Link to this
* Let’s Go Braves !!!*
You can do it Chipper!
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this
Calvin, Sosa failed to cover first on a ball hit to Laroche, fortunately he had a force and got it at second, but had he not had one, the runner reaches first. Bad baseball.
By Glass Half Full
July 17, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this
Reds and Mets? Let’s root for alot of extra inning games with several injuries on both sides. Seriously, though…in the immediate sense a sweep by the Mets helps us in the wildcard race.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this
I’m not saying they shouldn’t… I just didn’t know if it was my inner monologue or not.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this
I dont know Calvin, but if it were me … I’d get that audio right now and listen to the replay … you missed a good’un son!
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this
me guesses that my’s grammar wasn’t so gud in that last post. Sorry for the difficult reading, guys! LOL
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this
Is this Casey or Chipper?
By Max
July 17, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this
WE ARE ROOTING FOR THE REDS WE CAN’T CONCED THE DIVISION YET
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
Well this is a bummer… sort of. I wish Chipper had hit the hell out of that ball. But he did get three hits tonight. That’s pretty good, considering his hit streak is alive. This offense is out of control.
By David
July 17, 2006 10:17 PM | Link to this
Agree … rooting for REDS!
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this
DonCoburleone, Trust me … they may not be scared yet, but I’ll wager a pence that there are a few with stiff necks!
By Andy McAnderson
July 17, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this
Bobby looked pissed. What did he say to Sosa on the mound visit earlier?
Is Ken Ray the closer now.
By Glass Half Full
July 17, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this
If the Braves could narrow the division lead to 6-7 games, I have a feeling the Mets would panic. And, check out the Braves August schedule…there is a God!
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this
I disagree Max…..
I say root for the Mets, let them get a HUGE lead (not that it isn’t already). Then beat their A*******es to the ground head to head, so when they meet the Braves in the NLSC, it’s in their heads that they can’t beat the Braves. Kinda like the Marlins were in the Braves heads in 1997. Can you imagine the pressure on Glavine, having to face the Braves in the Playoffs?
PS…..yeah, I’ve changed my tune a little bit about the chances of the Braves making the post season. We still need way more bullpen help, but the rest of the wild card teams are so flawed, I think it’s the Braves to lose. Of course they gotta keep swinging the bats like they have or they are dead. No way does this team win close games with this bullpen. Gonna have to pound them into submission!
By Max
July 17, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this
RAY WILL PROBABLY CLOSER UNTIL WE GET WICKMAN OVER HERE
By Shaun
July 17, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
I don’t care what he said to Sucksa. I just hope he has a coach fare ticket to the minors right now.
By Andy
July 17, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
Man the cards bringing in the closer against chipper is a Larussa against cox thing—more than against chipper thing. Laruusa hates cox—and vise versa. Man that sucks—like jason needs work or something—-Bull—-in a 13-5 game he brings in his closer. I hope this back fires in the series. I really really do. Great game guys.
By Max
July 17, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this
6 STRAIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By MEB
July 17, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this
Looking forward to coming to Atlanta next week and watching the Braves gaff some Marlin on Thursday afternoon and then tame the Muts on Friday night. Man I hope this torrid hitting will continue.
Braves win!!! Lot of fascinating stuff to talk about after this game.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this
perhaps other bloggers have noticed a certain blogger using the term, “methinks” in several recent posts. journalist jimmy smith has noticed. and why, “methinks”?
“in all ages poets have been had in special reputation, and, methinks, not without great cause.” spenser.
“the lady doth protest too much, methinks.” shakespeare
“‘tis not for golden eloquence I pray, a godlike tongue to move a stony heart- methinks it were full well to be apart. tennyson
“me thinks that geauxbraves2000 is trying to turn my lady’s head …” bob
first, the stuff of dob - now the stuff of shakespeare! of course, he’s also talking blue worms …
By Glass Half Full
July 17, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this
Does Sosa have minor league options left?
By Shaun
July 17, 2006 10:30 PM | Link to this
Looks like we can kill Jorge Sucksa’s Sorry a—goodbye. I detest him as a Brave. Finally Bobby Cox saw that he ain’t worth a newpaper readin crap.
How bout Betemit!! He is such a pure hitter. We now have a lead off hitter. Giles, so long buddy. I’m sorry Braves fans but it is time to be rough now. We can’t settle for mediocrity at this point. Put Giles, Thompson,and Hamptom in the meat locker. I want a ring this year. This team is just too good to settle for a 1 round wild card. If Boston can do it so can we.
By Roper
July 17, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this
I can’t bring myself to root for the Mets. No way. It’s against my religion. Though I am in favor of long games and nagging injuries.
By MEB
July 17, 2006 10:35 PM | Link to this
Andy… I agree that Larussa knew exactly the situation with Chipper and I hope it backfires on him as this series plays out. I don’t expect him to put in a stiff, but Isringhausen, give me a break.
By Dean
July 17, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this
I thought the same thing when I saw Issenringhausen…does anybody know when the bad blood between Bobby and Larussa started?
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this
I’m not sure on the “options” for sosa, GHF, but who cares?
Just release him! It would suck to get nothing for him, but not as bad as him blowing more games for us. There comes a point and time where you just gotta say goodbye. Anyway, every other GM is gonna see highlights of this game and realize that Bobby doesn’t come out to the mound unless he’s taking the guy out. So if Sosa had “trade value” yesterday (which I don’t think he did), it is considerably less today.
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this
I’m sure the bad blood started in the AL when Bobby was with the Blue Jays and LaRussa was with the White Sox (or was he already with the A’s then?)
But I do remember Bobby and LaRussa jawing at each other in the 96 playoffs (that the cardinals choked in). I seem to recall Rick Honeycutt being involved too, not sure what about though. What’s not to like about both of them? LOL
By Paul Hamilton
July 17, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this
Hi I’m a Mets fan and I wanted to come on here and tell you that the Braves suck! The Mets are the bestest team EVER!! You guys are going to win anything. Go you little blue guys, I love Pedroismydaddy!
Haha I couldn’t resist, I didn’t see any mets fans on here today so I had to add one to the blog. Great game tonight, what in the world has gotten into the Braves offense? Another 15 runs tonight, that is just sick!
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this
Larussa has said that he thinks Cox works the umpires by complaining too much. There may be more too it than that, but I know that Tony has whined about Bobby’s whining.
By Dean
July 17, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
I have never liked Larussa…
By melinda
July 17, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
No matter how bad the Braves’ record gets, they always come back after the All-Star Game. Every year.
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
Can you say: Cox vs. Larussa on MTV’s celebrity death match?
By Woogidy
July 17, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this
By the Way, Laroche up to .270 16hr 51rbi -Mark Teixeira -.274 12hr 57rbi.
By TennesseePaul
July 17, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this
Sizzling
Todays 20 hits pushed the Braves team average up 2 points. It is now at .280. This game was also the 18th straight game the Braves have hit a home run. In these 18 games, the Braves have hit 35 homers and scored 132 runs. Those 132 runs represent 27% of the runs scored this season.
How long is Chippers streak?
By Shaun
July 17, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this
To Paul the Met fan: Watch out!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Braves Hot. See ya’ll at the TED.
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
Here’s a quote I found from Larussa, I think talking about some play in 2005, but I’m not sure.
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this
Hey, does anybody remember who the “3rd guy” in the Mets big gun young pitchers about 10 years ago that were supposed to supplant Maddux, Smoltz and Glavine as the NL’s “next big 3”
I remember Isringhausen and Paul Wilson, but I can’t think of the 3rd guy!
Hey Mets fans, that worked out well didn’t it. You didn’t get a “legitimate” pitcher in your rotation until you took our old has been! LOL
“next big 3”……sorry that’s just funny!
By DonCoburleone
July 17, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this
I saw Brian McCann getting interviewed by Erin Andrews on Baseball Tonight - He was so nervous, his voice was shaking and he stumbled over a few words. It was hilarious… VIRGIN???
By nathan
July 17, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this
Don…..you don’t have to be a virgin to be “nervous” around Erin Andrews! LOL
So, who out there would rather watch Mark Fein instead of Erin Andrews?
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this
Sorry that last post came out strange.
Nathan, wasn’t that Bobby Jones?
By nathan
July 17, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this
Nope…..just looked it up!
drum roll please……….
Bill Pulsipher! WOW! How could I forget about him? Good lord. Did these guys even qualify for the little league HOF!
The NY media had these guys each going 350-0 in their careers.
Kind of like NY fans booing AROD. It’s sad that he has to play 3rd base, when he’s probably the best SS on his team!
By krath
July 17, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this
Many have posted their thoughts that Betemit is nothing better than a utility guy. Even earlier in this blog, I still see that some folks wouldn’t mind seeing him included in a deal to bring pitching to the Braves.
The reality is you have to give up something to get something in return. I know that. I’m not privy to any trade info but many reports say the Betemit is the guy lots of teams would like to have. Of course lots of teams would love to have Smoltz, but Betemit seems to be a “realistic” target.
It just seems a bit odd that there is that much interest by other GMs in a 24 year old “utility” player.
On another note, DOB said yesterday (or was it day before?) that Giles thumb really didn’t look swollen or at least not too bad. (sorry if I misquoted and correct me if that wasn’t the jest of what was said) He takes one swing today and hangs it up.
Not a conspiracy theorist normally but….. can a player be traded who is on the DL?
Only a couple of weeks before the deadline.
By geauxbraves2000
July 17, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this
The offense is on fire! WTG Braves, great game!!
Geaux Braves!
By journalist jimmy smith
July 17, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this
oh, the humanity! the man has a pulled plug. where is the compassion?
By Carolina Lady
July 17, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this
Krath, could it be Thomsonism? It pops up when trade rumors do.
By Carolina Lady
July 17, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this
Wait! I’ve got it! It’s “rumortism”!
By Don
July 17, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this
I confess, I didn’t think these Braves had a stretch like this in them. Looks like the position players have figured out the only way to win with this bullpen is to hang up double digit runs every night. Man are they pounding the ball!
I have gone from being a conditional seller (deal veterans IF you get a good offer) to a conditional buyer (get bullpen help IF you don’t get held up for it; I doubt that’s possible). Given how crummy the NL is the Braves have climbed back into the wild card hunt. The Cardinals, despite leading a division, are in such a pathetic state that they take on the horrible Jeff Weaver.
DOB, with your work ethic you are becoming to sports blogging what Springsteen is to live concerts. Questions I’d love to hear your thoughts on AFTER you’ve had the chance to sleep in a bed and talk with Bobby Cox and others:
LaRoche is pounding the ball but what’s with these brain lapses about covering first base? He did it a couple of days ago with Smoltz. Smoltz looked up to throw to first, was startled to see LaRoche jogging toward first but still a few steps away and then accelerated to tag the runner in the baseline. Then early in tonight’s game on a ball hit back to the pitcher, LaRoche was apparently in a fog, breaking toward second for a step and then barely able to get to first in time. They showed Cox on TV and he had his arms out in the dugout. It looked like he was saying something like “what the hell is he doing?” This kind of stuff is going to matter in a close game one of these days (as it has once before on the infamous play) and it’s inexcusable no matter how he’s hitting the ball right now.
What did Sosa do to get that tongue lashing on the mound from Cox? He threw a pitch right down the middle and it got whacked, but at least he didn’t walk the guy on 4 pitches. I didn’t see what Sosa did to incur Cox’s wrath, but I haven’t seen Bobby publicly embarrass a player like that since he yanked Andruw out of center field in the middle of an inning several years ago. On a related note, what did Pujols say to Sosa after the inning? Something must have happened that everybody but the TV audience saw.
Is Sosa gone (I ask hopefully)? On ESPN after Sosa failed to cover first base on the potential double play ball hit to LaRoche, Rick Sutcliffe said he expected two roster moves tomorrow from the Braves: Giles to the DL and Sosa sent out. Sutcliffe said Sosa was disrespecting the game. Kudos to Sutcliffe for having the balls to say it.
Is Betemit turning Giles into a modern day Wally Pipp? He is raking the ball from both sides. He’s not going to be confused with Mazeroski defensively (he looked terrible on that ball blooped over his head yesterday in San Diego) but I think he’s adequate. Could a Giles/Langerhans combo get us any bullpen help?
What’s with LaRussa sending Isringhausen in to pitch the 9th down 15-3? Did he think Bobby should have pulled Chipper? If he still fixated on that 3-1 Braves comback and game 7 beatdown in 1996? Or was it innocent and Isringhausen needed to get in an inning of work? The Cardinals were coming off a weekend sweep and maybe he didn’t get into any of the games.
By Bob, journalist
July 17, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this
Generally, I use “Methinks” in my emails to family and friends … but “Me Thinks” on the Blog … don’t want folks to think I’m puttin’ on the dog. Methinks.\, that ‘splains it. Regardless, My Lady is indeed a first class lady!
By Stanford
July 17, 2006 11:20 PM | Link to this
Kruk just said on ESPN that the Braves have NO HOPE in the WC chase, and that the best thing we could do is trade Smoltz.
Nathan, I still think Jones was part of that trifecta, but no major argument. I don’t think Pulsipher was part of it. But, whatever. I’ll have to do some research. I do remember the theory that the Mets were set for starting pitching and that none of it worked out.
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 11:26 PM | Link to this
I think a Giles/Langerhans combo ought to get us something. I think a platoon of Diaz and Thorman is great in left. Only thing is Langerhans is our best option for center if something happens to Andruw. Though didn’t Francouer play center in the minors? Anybody know?
By krath
July 17, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this
Good point Lady. Thomsonism it is then! :)
Just saw Harold Reynolds and John Kruk on SportsCenter. Reynolds is on crack! He said the Braves had a shot because Chipper was hot and that, get this…. Hudson was coming around…pitching like the pitcher the Braves thought they were getting when they traded for him!
Did I miss something? Have I been dreaming that Hudson is still struggling?
Then Kruk says, the Braves ain’t gonna make the playoffs and should trade Smoltz. Kruk is usually a Braves drum beater but he’s bailed out this year.
By MEB
July 17, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this
John Kruk feels the Braves are out of the playoffs and should trade John Smoltz while his value is at its highest. I’m glad he has no voice in any decision involving the Braves.
By Haywood Jablome
July 17, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this
I’d be pretty surprised if the Braves released Sosa and had to eat 3 million in salary. Sosa is a classic “change of scenery” guy. If he could start over somewhere else, he’s got the tools to be o.k.. JS has got to package him with someone attractive and we’ll be rid of him and his salary. Why not LaRoche?
By Ron Roberts
July 17, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN FOR THE LaROCHE-HATERS
He’s hitting .270 now, with 16 HRs, 51 RBI.
To quote the heralded Dave O’Brien… Get over it.
If you average that output over a 162-game season, that’s .270, 27.8 HR and 88 RBI.
Get over it.
Hell, I remember last season there were the Andruw-bashers who wanted to trade him when he had a slow start to last year. Anybody wanna ‘fess up to being one of those dolts who sought to trade him then? C’mon… man up.
By the way, Andruw’s BA in 2005 was a so-so .263, and LaRoche is now hitting above that clip, folks.
LaRoche-bashers….
Get over it.
By Mike from the coast
July 17, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this
Put a package together that involves Giles, Laroche, Langerhans, and Sosa. Somewhere in there, there is a trade. Keep Thorman though, mark my words we trade him it will haunt us. Should have had an RBI tonight, great play by Pujols saved a double.
By Tomahawkin
July 17, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this
MEB, Why da he!! do you take anything the John Kruk says seriously? That dude is dumb as he!! just like those other turds at ESPN, Quick to jump on the bandwagons of the hottest teams
85 percent of the crap they say isn’t worth a damn so I gave up on them 10 years ago…
Oh yea, I give a shout out to FlaBravesGrl, How bout Dem Braves tonite? Tapping that Cardinal A-s-s, save some of dem hits tomorrow boyz!
By flbravesgirl
July 17, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this
I don’t really consider Kruk to be the ultimate authority on baseball, lol.
Another fun game! Now I’ll have to watch ESPN to see if they replay McCann’s interview. DonC, let’s be realistic here. He’s 22, a ballplayer and (in my opinion anyway) really cute. I would imagine that young ladies are practically throwing themselves at him (and Frenchy).
By MEB
July 17, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this
LaRoache is doing just fine as the Atlanta Braves full time starting first baseman. Check out his numbers and compare them with the rest of the league and you will find we have one of the leagues best. The mix on this team of veterans and young guys is great and they have tremendous chemistry. Please leave LaRouche out of any trade discussions.
By Jch
July 17, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this
why not just spend some of the $13million we aint paying Mike Hampton and buy us a closer there are teams that could use some cash Im sure— just not sure if the teams that need the cash have the players- Does Philly need money? with the way our starters can only go 5 innings it looks like we need 2 or 3 more starters or should I say middlers- guys that can pitch 6th, 7th and 8th then maybe our closers we have can actually do some closing instead of pitching 3 innings a night.
By Tomahawkin
July 17, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this
I couldn’t tolerate Rick SUCKcliffe on ESPN Tonite, so I had to watch the cardinal network, SUCKcliffe drives me crazy
Any word on the Horacio Fatigue story, I know it was 95 degress out there so I’m really not suprised he came out early…
We should not get rid of Blowsa, Save him as a pinch hitter, He’s about as twice as effective a hitter as Pete Orr …
By Joe Cobb
July 17, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this
Here’s a link:
http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/sportscolumns/entries/2006/06/17/bravesneedmaj.html
Like I said then, I’m a Bravos man. Rest of y’all naysayers can get off my bandwagon. :-)
By krath
July 17, 2006 11:49 PM | Link to this
This Just In!!!
The Mets and Yankees just released a joint statement saying that they are interested in ALL players that will be available before the deadline.
Omar Minaya stated his goal is to match the Yankee payroll by mid-August.
By Haywood Jablome
July 17, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this
Hey Ron, Please don’t lump me in with the “Laroche haters”. I don’t hate him. Heck, I don’t even know him. All I’m saying is he’s attractive trade bait. To get something, we’ll have to give something. JS won’t pick anyone’s pocket this year.
By Tomahawkin
July 17, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this
I hear Harold Reynolds just said quote ” Tim Hudson is starting to pitch like the Braves expect, meaning that he is pitching well.”
Just goes to show that these guys are clueless about any team other than the yankess Red Sox or Flubbies
ESPN Sucks!
By Tomahawkin
July 17, 2006 11:54 PM | Link to this
Said it before and I’ll say it again, I don’t hate LaRoche, I just hate that laid back attitude of his, That attitude doesn’t cut it in the late months, and postseason
OT anyone hear about the sales pitch that Glavine made 4 Maddux???
By flbravesgirl
July 17, 2006 11:55 PM | Link to this
And Steve Phillips just said the Cards’ pitching has stabilized. How stable did it look to y’all? LOL!
By Tomahawkin
July 17, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this
That view of Downtown St Louis is sick, other than that St Louis is pretty nasty I think…
I wish that Turner field was built downtown, to give that downtown experience to games, but then again, I’m not involved in politics neither…
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this
I can’t Stand Phillips either while im at it, I can’t watch that show period, It used to be good when It was just Karl Ravech, and HR on there back in the late 90s, Now it’s Just like TBS And ESPN, Going to the Toilet, I don’t think anyone who lives outside of New York or Boston likes that show
I get all my 411 from the WEB, Thanks D.O.B. For all of us who can’t tolerate that Crap from ESPN
By flbravesgirl
July 18, 2006 12:06 AM | Link to this
Well, they actually opened BBT with Brian’s grand slam. I guess they’re not totally useless.
By nathan
July 18, 2006 12:21 AM | Link to this
Joe Cobb
Question for you. If sombody were to say to you that they were a fan of “steak dinners”, then proceeded to btch about a bad strech of shtty steaks that they had recently ate. Would you accuse that person of not being a fan of steak?
All of us on these blogs are “BRAVES FANS”. That’s why we get upset when they play poorly. We expect exceptional baseball, no matter how young, how underpaid, how overpaid etc……
When a player puts on a Braves uniform, whether it’s for the 1st time or the 500th time, I expect players to play hard, play smart, and play with passion and enthusiasm. Am I spoiled because I’ve had 15 years of winning teams? Damn Right I am!!! Did I expect Reitsma to be good this year? That’s a good question. Not sure what I thought. But I figured if he was good enough for JS and Bobby, then good things were probably going to come. I was wrong, Bobby was wrong and JS was wrong. Sh*t Happens!
If I wasn’t a fan, I wouldn’t care less what happened to this team.
Am I back on the bandwagon? I never got off the “bandwagon” I’ve been on since I was 11 years old, many moons ago. As long as I’ve been a fan of baseball, I’ve been a fan of the Atlanta Braves. It’s all I know. Thank God I grew up in a time when TBS actually had Braves games on.
Did I make remarks in recent weeks about this team not going anywhere? ABSOLUTELY! Did I make remarks about dumping Giles? YUP! Did I say the Braves should try to trade Chipper, Hudson, Smoltz and maybe even Andruw if they were completely out of contention in July? YUP I DID, and I still stand by that thinking if that’s the case. But it doesn’t look like that’s gonna happen. They are actually playing good ball. Chipper is healthy……today. We’ll see if that lasts. If he stays healthy, he’s still a force. But you could say the same thing about Grant Hill, couldn’t you?
Anyway, there is a big difference between b*tching about the performance of a team or player you love, than being on the “bandwagon”.
Whether you people thinking this team is on the verge of winning the WS. Wake up!!!!!! Last years bullpen was 20 times as strong as this one and they couldn’t get the job done. Tim Hudson is a 4th starter at best right now. HoRam is obviously not completely healthy. Plus, there still isn’t a legit leadoff hitter on this team. I’m not sure who the best option between Giles and Betemit is, but niether of them are ideal in the 1-hole.
Face it, no matter what kind of numbers this team is putting up right now, they aren’t likely to face a “struggling” Jake Peavy or Jeff Weaver in the playoffs. And believe me, I’m having fun watching this offense right now. Chipper actually smiles, it looks like he’s having fun again. Even with the decent numbers that Francoeur and LaRoche are putting up, we all know that not a single pitcher on anybody’s post season roster is going to give Jeff anything within 2 feet of the strike zone to hit. So the lineup is really only 5 deep, and that’s assuming the leadoff spot is taken care of.
Anyhow, I’ve rambled on enough. I was just testing my keyboard to see if all the keys still worked…….Yup, they do! LOL
By Calvin
July 18, 2006 12:30 AM | Link to this
Crap..I can’t find any video on what went down on the mound with Sosa and Cox. Really wish I could see that.
By chopthis
July 18, 2006 12:32 AM | Link to this
Hi Dave!
It occurred to me earlier today that I still owe you that Steve Earle/Lucinda Williams concert story, so here goes:
Yes, I was there when country music became part of academia on Sept. 25, 1999, as Washington’s Smithsonian Institution hosted a Hank Williams symposium at which critics, scholars, family members and even Don Helms — Hank’s old steel guitarist and the last survivor of the classic Drifting Cowboys — gathered to discuss Hank’s lofty place in American culture. Lucinda Williams and Steve Earle (along with badly overshadowed artists Kathy Mattea and Kim Richey) kicked off the event the night before with a concert where they sat around onstage in a semicircle for an old-timey Hank Williams guitar pull.
The concert was scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., and by 8:20 or so, Steve hadn’t shown up yet. The stuffy Smithsonian emcee was getting kind of nervous because, I suppose, if there’s a Musical Artist Most Likey to Be Discovered Belly-up in a Hotel Room with a Needle in His Arm, it’s probably Steve Earle.
A few minutes later, we all breathed a sigh of relief when Steve, looking shy and nervous, entered stage left. He was well worth the wait. The artists took turns at the start doing their favorite Hank songs, and Steve did a jaunty, rocking version of “I’m a Long Gone Daddy,” I recall, and Lucinda was touching on “Take These Chains from My Heart,” even though that song was written by Fred Rose, and the artists had been instructed to confine themselves to Hank-penned classics.
The more interesting phase of the concert, though, came when each artist was asked to perform two songs of their own they felt bore the strongest Hank influence. Lucinda chose “Concrete and Barbed Wire” and “Jackson,” both off her Car Wheels on a Gravel Road album. Steve Earle duetted with her on these numbers, and their performance was riveting. (I went from the concert straight to a record shop near Georgetown University, where I purchased Car Wheels on a Gravel Road. Not a week has gone by since that I haven’t listened to that awesome CD at least once.) When Steve’s turn to choose came, he performed “The Other Side of Town” from his fabulous El Corazon album and then ripped off a version of “South Nashville Blues” far superior to the very formidable recording on his I Feel Alright CD. It’s the moment from the show I remember most fondly, even though it seems to me the song owes far more to Robert Johnson and the Delta blues tradition than to Hank and classic country. However, both artists were masters of eloquence in the face of pain and despair, so why quibble?
I guess I’ll stop now, else I run the risk of this entry approaching the long-windedness of a typical Bob the Journalist effort.
Any bloggers who have read this far: Do yourselves a favor and buy the albums mentioned above.
Dave – keep cool up there!
OK, ya’ll can get back to the Braves.
By Andy
July 18, 2006 12:37 AM | Link to this
Classic bobby cox—I doubt anyone will read this…..but when Cox was asked about his “discussion” with Sosa on the mound—and what was Cox so mad about, Cox reponded….”Oh no….he just didn’t seem loose.” Yeah right—-when have you ever seen Cox do that without Jeff Porter or Leo or something like that. But that is Cox—-no way was I pissed at Sosa….NO WAY. I love that. Yes he was mad at Sosa—because if he wasn’t he would have let him pitch the 9th for a save. This of course is only my thoughts—-I have no real way of knowing. But thats brilliant—-wanted to make sure he was loose is all. Good luck tomorrow guys—if we make the palyoffs—-it would be a better story than the baby braves—were still the 3rd youngest team in the NL—-take out pratt and who knows.
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 12:41 AM | Link to this
I tell you guys what….I’d sure like to see that 1996 NLDS Again, bring back a lot of memories, when once upon a time we were the Team that everyone loved to hate…
By Stanford
July 18, 2006 12:44 AM | Link to this
Andy, why would Cox air the team’s dirty laundry for the press? If he’s mad at Sosa, there’s not much benefit in telling the press that.
Nathan, only disagreement I would have is the Chipper/Grant Hill comparison. Hill is a great talent who will never make the HOF because he’s been hurt his whole career, while Chipper is on his way there. But yes, he does seem fragile these days.
The Braves’s pitching stinks, and we’re not going to win anything without a bullpen. Now, everyone is hitting, so no one is expendable. Tough choices.
By Kentavo
July 18, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this
Yeah, Harold Reynolds hasn’t been watching many of Hudson’s starts. How can he say that? And Kruk, well, he’s from West Virginia.
By Andy
July 18, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this
Standford—-have you ever heard of a player who did not like playing for Cox? Case in point—-tonight! When asked about it Cox says…he wasn’t sure if Sosa was lose—-thats great—thats awesome. I love that about Cox.
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 12:52 AM | Link to this
5 GB
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 12:55 AM | Link to this
Team is 3rd in the league in Homers and runs scored, If we keep the National league era average and stop blowing games to jubroni teams, then I think we got a shot at the wildcard, much to ESPN’s displeasure
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 12:56 AM | Link to this
Jimmy, I haven’t checked my earlier posts but if I gave you the impression that I liked “red eye” gravy with scrambled eggs and “streak-o-lean”, it was unintentional.
I do love country ham or better yet, shoulder and “red-eye” gravy with bisquits … but, with eggs and fried salt pork or “streak-o-lean”, it’s got to be mama’s buttermilk gravy … akin to “sawmill” gravy, but such a comparison doesn’t do mama justice… sort of like comparing your Bentley with my Fairlane.
After rereading my “Me Thinks” explanation, I realize that it probably didn’t make much sense … It all started several years ago with emails to my brother … when I started using “methinks” instead of “I opine”. I would compose those long emails using a fancy editor, maybe MS Word, I can’t remember … but the software would change it to “Me Thinks” … and then suggest alternate language. I still use “methinks” with him ‘cause it bacame part of my family “persona” … but, I actually prefer the “Me Thinks” because it helps me remember to think for myself … remember who I am and to laugh at me too.
Just to be mentioned with those other fellows, even in jest … makes me feel like I’m in mighty high cotton! These last few days you’ve kept me in stitches … and the air smells sweet in these environs.
Thanks!
By Aaron
July 18, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this
The lead story on SportsCenter, The Yanks and Mariners. What a joke.
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this
Aaron, Its ESPN, Whaddya Expect from dem turds….
Much karma if the Yankees don’t make the playoffs, but then again its the yankees they always find that bullshyt luck to sneak into october
BTW, The Tomahawkinm Got into a skirmish with a bandwagon yankees fan at the bar the other nite, I had to check her, when she said f—c-k the Braves, I had to get in her a-s-s
Can’t stand bandwagon yankee/mutts fans
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 01:09 AM | Link to this
Andy, your points are well made but … Bobby didn’t bring Jorge in to get the save … Me thinks he brought Jorge and Peter Moylan in to see if they could give up enough runs so that Ken Ray could have a chance to get it!
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 01:25 AM | Link to this
Greetings, all! I’ve spent a raucous evening with Grinch the Elder and missed the whole damn game. I saw the score, and read over the blog, and I can’t believe it. For all the games I’ve sat alone watching them get their behinds kicked this season, they’re now extending the improbable streak of looking like the ‘27 Yankees. AAaarrrrgggghhhhh! Well, these things happen. Is anyone still awake? I’m now ready to discourse…
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this
ChopThis,
I’ve tried real hard to be longwinded but these days, I rarely succeed … two packs a day for many seasons will do that to you.
One thing about my posts, long or short … folks can skip right over them with my blessings and assurances that chances are mighty slim that they’ll be missing anything of importance!
That’s not to say that I don’t want everyone to read them … I’d be a big fibber to suggest something like that! It’s just that sometimes I have more difficulty in expressing myself than some folks do … why more than half the time, I don’t even understand what I’ve written unless I use my third ear.
By nathan
July 18, 2006 01:37 AM | Link to this
Stanford….you’re right about “who to trade” if anybody. Tough, tough call. Is this the “norm” or is it a mirage? I mean, what position do we uprgrade? LF seems ok with Thorman/Langerhans. Not sure there. CF…nope. RF….nope. 3B….nope. SS…..nope. 2B….????? Giles or Betemit or NEITHER? 1B…..???. LaRoche does play good defense, and his bat is coming around. He’s quietly having a pretty good year. Plus he’s been pretty clutch in post season. So I say….nope. CA…..Can I get a HELL NO?
I guess that leaves Pitching. Bullpen….absolutely! Anybody and everybody we can get are hands on (as long as they have a track record of being better than what we’ve got or a promising future). Rotation….?????? That’s a tough call. Is Chuck James gonna pull a Kyle Davies and do good for a month and fizzle 2nd time through the league? Maybe. Is HoRam healthy? And if he is, will he continue the “flashes” of brilliance he’s shown recently? Not sure there either. I do know that before he got hurt a couple of years ago he looked like the ACE of the future. Hard to tell now. What will we get from Davies when (if) he comes back. That’s a big, big unknown. BUT WITHOUT A DOUBT - TIM HUDSON IS THE KEY. We all know that Smoltz is fine, in fact better than fine. If Hudson returns to his old self (I’m talking his 2nd to last season in Oakland - pre injury), then some tweaking in the pen should do it. But that is a BIG if.
I’m hoping that JS has a “trick” or surprise up his sleeve, with the money that Chipper helped out with. But in no particular order of importance this is my “wishlist” of needs for the stretch run:
1) One more veteran bat of the bench: Jeff Conine seems like a good fit. Veteran prescence, multiple positions, playoff experience, seems to be a good “teammate”.
2) Sombody who can close. 2 days ago I was against Wickman, but he unfortunately is MUCH better than any option we have right now. (I think - as it would appear Bobby does - that Ken Ray is better suited for the 8th inning)
3) Lefty “specialist” in the bullpen. I’m usually not one for the lefty/righty matchup. But come playoff time or stretch run time, it would be nice to have a lefty that can get the big lefties out consistantly. (Not sold on McCay McBride - distant future looks bright - immediate future looks inconsistant)
4) Sombody to bat leadoff. Or do the things that a leadoff hitter tries to do. Like a pinch hitter that can “make stuff happen”. Or sombody with speed to “steal a base”…..Dave Roberts? I don’t think he’s good enough to take over a spot that one of our outfielders has. But it would be nice to have that “Rickey Henderson”, “Kenny Lofton” type of guy that comes in to pinch run to steal a base, when everybody in the house knows he’s been brought in to steal a base. And he can still succeed. Just like he did for Boston a while back. I don’t know, maybe I’m blowing “one big steal” out of proportion?
5) If the other 4 “requests” are filled, this might not need to be. But another reliable (or more reliable than what we’ve currently got) arm for the bullpen. Lefty or Righty….I don’t care.
Sorry about the Grant Hill comparison. It probably wasn’t fair. But you got the point. Maybe Griffey Jr. would’ve been more accurate?
Good night all!
By nathan
July 18, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this
well said Bob……I feel the same way. It’s hard to get my points or thoughts across in short sentences. When I do that, people think I’m being an A$$……somtimes I am. LOL
But yeah, half the time I go back and read what I’ve typed after I post it, and ask myself…..”what the hell are you trying to say?”…well, if I couldn’t explain it the first time, I’m not gonna try a second time.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this
Grinch, as articulate, impassioned and persuasive you are … it’s impossible for me to believe that you havent converted the Elder Grinch and made him an ardent believer and follower of Braves Baseball!
Now that the boys are away from that pitcher friendly park, we can look for them to improve … don’t you think?!
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 01:49 AM | Link to this
Dammit. These things happen to those who are are off the average person’s circadian rhythms. I just thought FlaBravesgirl and Bob at least were on mine. Bob, as to your comments and questions 8 hrs. ago: Yes, I am fat, but only slightly (I played at 240 with around 8% when I was 17). I have a semi-accomplished beer-gut, but my real problem is cardiovascular conditioning. I am mighty and burly and still reasonably quick for my size, but not doing myself any favors sitting in an office chair the vast majority of the time. The Macanudos do nothing to facilitate my improvement. And, truthfully, though I appreciate the sentiment, if my heart was as big as my butt I’d have enough oxygen to run from ATL to Swainsboro, only pausing at Taco Bell which I cannot resist. Unless, of course, you were speaking figuratively. :-) J.J.Smith, you’re a deep old file, to be sure (meant in the 18th century Napoleonic sense)…could you perhaps explain to me what the deuce an “Inigma” is? Or should I take a pole?
By David O'Brien
July 18, 2006 01:58 AM | Link to this
Bob, you ever had the red-eye gravy and ham and the incredible biscuits at Loveless Cafe outside Nashville? The best. Simply, the best. When everyone from George Jones to Martha Stewart says so, it’s a good indication. It’s a joint that used to be 20 miles outside town, but is now on edge of suburbia. Used to have a Motel in buildings behind the cafe, but now those are gifts shops, jam factory (they make their own), etc. Great, great place.
Chopthis, that concert sounds like it was just astonishing. Wish I could’ve seen it. I’ve seen Lu a few times (she’s sexy and so very, very talented) and seen Earle. I love Kim Richey _ way underrated., And Mattea has a great voice, doesn’t she?
I’d agree with you on those two Earle LPs _ El Corazon and I Feel Alright, those are as good as anything he’s done.
As for game tonight _ I’m speechless at how the Braves are hitting. I’ve gotta get to bed, so can’t get into a bunch of details. I’ll just tell you Bobby was upset at Sosa for not being focused enough, is the gist of what I got talking to folks. Bobby wouldn’t say it, though. Was quite unusual for Bobby to go out there and clearly chew him a new one on the mound.
Frankly, at that point of the game I was scrambling to finish game story with the reams of info and stats that there were to keep updating. And checking on Horacio. He’s not bad, but the leg just wasn’t up to going any longer in the heat, etc. He’s gotta build it back up before he can real deep in games, I think.
McCann is simply one of the very best young players in the game. The best young player on this team. THE best.
By Snowball's Chance
July 18, 2006 01:59 AM | Link to this
Grinch, Kick those Macanudos up to a high octane maduro and you’ll be fine.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 02:00 AM | Link to this
Thanks Nathan! Your posts aren’t so hard to understand … but, do I detect a hint of optimism from the old pessimist?
I just wish you’d be a little less inclined to trade these kids … they’re a pretty darn good group … a lot of talent, and they seem to be figuring it out!
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:03 AM | Link to this
Stanford and Nathan, your posts this evening have been quite insightful. Don’t feel like you’re wasting your time; you’re getting your point across fine; both of you make much more sense than I do, not that that means much. Bob, the elder Grinch is a mighty and bitter man. He has a P.H.D. in Drama Therapy from NYU, an M.S.W., and M.S.’s in both english and psychology. He sits upon his mighty throne in total disdain of the human race, swilling vodka, and summons me approximately once a week to converse with him. He does not trifle with baseball any more than the sensible average man trifles with toes. However, when I provide him with anecdotes of everyday human folley and explain it as best I can, he nods his craggy brow as if he were Zeus, the Thunder-God, and dozes off. This allows me to come into his office and put on a kick-a$$ cd on his THX system and converse with you.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:11 AM | Link to this
Snowball, I will write it down and take it in with me next time I’m in the tabacco shop. Much thanks…DOB, sleep well, my friend. According to Skip you had the ** end of the stick in the press box. If anyone deserves a good snooze it’s our esteemed blogmaster general. Got Uncle Ted’s “Great White Buffalo” going at a mighty volume; good stuff!
By berigan
July 18, 2006 02:12 AM | Link to this
For folks bashing ESPN for not getting on the Braves bandwagon…well, last time I checked, we are still 5 games under .500 (44 - 49), not exactly the Detroit Tigers 62-30 record, but the Braves are on a heck of a role. (The Hated ESPN mentioned the 59 runs scored in 5 games was the best a Braves team had done since….1897!!!!) But the Yankees are the Yankees,and just a half game out of first place, so I would lead with them on a broadcast as well. And Kruk is right that we have no chance,IF we don’t get some arms for the bullpen, and with only one starter you can count on each time out. Every other day it seems, The Red Sox have some young pitcher coming up and doing well, why are the Braves so afraid to do that??? The only guys they seem to bring up are guys who have had arm injuries, and are trying for a comeback, or have bounced around from team to team.
I’m Glad J.S. doesn’t panic and just make any old move, but I’m going to be very P.O.ed if other teams find a way to get Joe Borowski, or some of the Cubs relievers for a few mid level prospects, while we keep running out Sosa….
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:18 AM | Link to this
The Braves are good enough at this point (sans bullpen) to even give Nathan some pause…it’s almost like someone who’s read a bad review of a restaurant and been bitching about them all week gets invited out with a prestigious group and proceeds to tear the restaurant a new one…untill he tears into the entree…:-)
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:21 AM | Link to this
Berigan, it’s all to make it more exciting. That’s what I’m telling myself, anyway…
By Snowball's Chance
July 18, 2006 02:22 AM | Link to this
If you take into consideration that Cox and Scheurholz[?] only want players who can field and hit,who would you trade for.The Espn announcers are singing the praises of Jim Edmonds but would you trade him for Andruw at any point in their careers. Edmonds makes the ordinary look great, Andruw makes the impossible look easy. Smoltz and Chipper have taken a financial hit to give this team a chance to compete and yet we haven’t seen any use of the extra cash. This has to be the hardest year for the front office to pull a rabbit out of the hat. I don’t believe they would try to move either of them, but if they did ,they would be in their rights to ask to be reimbursed for taking one for the team if the team wants to move them. can you imagine the shitstorm that would set off.
By David
July 18, 2006 02:26 AM | Link to this
kruk also said that the braves don’t have a chance if the west beats up on each other….HUH? Shouldn’t that help us? Good job harold saying that Hudson is back on track. I want to see the footage he has been watching. Sad that ever ESPN commentator sucks up to the New england teams. All we have to support us is Orel. I guess its better than nothing.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:30 AM | Link to this
Snowball, where have you been? You just said more in that paragraph than 85% of the crap (my own included) that has been posted recently. Welcome, and take a prestigious place at the table. And if you’ve been here longer than I have (which is distinctly possible, as I am an alcoholic and an a*******hole), my apologies. :-)
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:34 AM | Link to this
Yeah, David, ESPN are a bunch of A**clowns. No question of that. The Braves hardly ever get the props they deserve, whether they deserve them or not. If that makes any sense.
By Stanford
July 18, 2006 02:35 AM | Link to this
Thanks, Grinch. I have no idea what you’re talking about; that’s really nothing new on this blog. But thanks for your blessing on my posts.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:49 AM | Link to this
Stanford, I have no idea what I’m talking about, either. I’m simply impressed that I can still spell at this point. However, I must have spotted something intelligent, insightful and/or cool in your posts among many (not that my opinion means doo-diddly-squat)…yeah, now that I read back on it, you’re one of the ones that deserve mention. You, Chop this, Andy, Tomahawkin, basically anyone I don’t acknowledge on a constant level that isn’t a moron; you know who you are! I was just giving a shout-out. I shouldn’t be awake.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:52 AM | Link to this
But I am. And Red Stripe is tasty, and Rob Zombie rocks. :-)
By Snowball's Chance
July 18, 2006 02:54 AM | Link to this
Grinch, Okay, I went and adjusted my meds and I will try to stay on one topic. You can never go wrong with a Macanudo or a Montecristo but if you want to experiment go to JRCIGARS.com and check out the JR Ultimates. It is a great website for all things cigar. I live in the NW, so I just do mailorder but if you are in the SE they have outlets where you can get great deals. For me it’s all about Baseball, cigars and music. Last Nov I was in a bar in Puerto Vallarta listening to a good,live country rock band,smoking a cigar and watching the world series on their big screen .It doesn’t get any better than that. well, there were some attractive ladies now that I think of it.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 03:18 AM | Link to this
Wish I was in a bar in Peurto Vallarta, you **. :-) However, I do enjoy a good cigar, good alcohol, good sporting events and bad women. Baseball is a passion of mine, of many, but I must admit to all on the blog I love football more. An essential difference is that the Falcons blog is like detention hall in high school: full of angry morons. I understand and love football above and beyond all other sports, but few others do that aren’t unevolved primates. I used to tackle them for a loss. I’m not sure what that has to do with anything, probably nothing, but since I’ve been revealing myself so much today already, why not. Baseball, on the other hand, seems to be enjoyed by people capable of reasonably complex thought patterns (not to mention I love it, too)…and so here I am. Yeah, tell me about these cigars! :-)
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 03:25 AM | Link to this
Checked it out, Snowball; looked tasty. Can you give me a better price? If not, I’ll still talk to you. :-)
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 03:26 AM | Link to this
I could also use a humidor; my current one’s homemade.
By brian r
July 18, 2006 03:34 AM | Link to this
here’s a list of relievers that are potentially avaliable for the right price: Mike Gonzales Mota Wickman S Torres Williamson Dempster Gordan Borowski Gobble MacDougal Affelt Dessens Hawkins Roberto Hernandez
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 03:35 AM | Link to this
David O’B,
Yes! Yes! Yes! Folks can believe everything good they hear about the Loveless Cafe … I can vouch for that. Especially the biscuits!
My brother and his youngest bicycled up the Natchez Trace Parkway this spring with plans to meet us at the Loveless for lunch at 1:30 and then drive them back to Roswell. The only trouble was that baby brother never changed his watch to Central Time and when we got there … they were finishing up and anxious to get back home! Twern’t really his fault, I guess, but I shan’t forget it … free lunches at the Loveless are hard to come by!
Another is Dotson’s Restaurant in Franklin, about 20 miles south of us … I understand that they’re expanding now, using the space that was the famous Earl’s Fruit Stand that is adjacent to the old restaurant location.
Earl Tywater was a friend from whom I bought fresh fruit and melons, country hams, field corn, white crowder peas and such for many years until they closed a year or so following his death in 2000.
At Dotson’s, the tables are set up like in the Amish eating establishments … with long tables … strangers eating side by side. You can’t be in Dotson’s for very long without seeing and sometimes sitting with a country music icon or two.
At least that was the case when I used to eat there on a semi-regular basis … I guess that just about all of the stars that have been mentioned on the Blog in recent days … plus Mr. Eddy Arnold for sure and many, many others, have eaten in at least one of the two, and most likely both!
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 03:51 AM | Link to this
Grinch, I’ve been away fighting little black flies … and talking with the police after someone tried to break into my car.
Just posted that note to David O’B and saw your posts … thought I’d say howdy before going to bed ot the hot tub.
The elder Grinch souds like quite a guy … whether he likes baseball or not, I’ll bet he’d have a blast analyzing the posts of this collection of folks!
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 03:53 AM | Link to this
Bob, I picked a tomatoe I grew myself out of my own garden today, and made a sandwich out of it along with ham, Hellman’s mayo and 3 Kraft singles. They supposedly have 5 oz. of milk each. I do not fully believe this, but I enjoyed it nonetheless at my elongated kitchen table, with nobody else to appreciate it other than me. It turned out to be one of those sandwitches that you have to eat over the sink, as my tomatoe’s juiciness exceeded all expectations. I must now make toast, in honnor of you. Carolina Lady, I apologize for my earlier crudity; I am quite falliable, and not always as gallant as I might wish. Sin follows me, and I do not know whether I invite or shun it. I now pray for remission, and bow in submission…and rhyming was just a coincidence…:-)
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:03 AM | Link to this
Journalist Bob; sorry to hear about your car. I hope nothing important dissapeared. The elder Grinch…He is a force of nature, to be sure. And, truthfully, he’s as fine an individual as one would ever want to know. And quite funny, when he finally steps down from the holy place. And, it should be known, the holy place has nothing to do with religion; rather it is a holy place of higher thought, which he steps down from quickly when confronted with my incoherent ramblings. Get thee to thy tub, o prophet, and I will likely be here when thou returnest, and tell you further of the great elder Grinch, if you give a rip. Or some such nonsense. :-)
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 04:03 AM | Link to this
I think the ESPN announcers were right tonight. I think Giles is going on the DL and the braves won’t end up trading him until the offseason. I’m sure JS is thinking he can get more for Giles in the offseason than he can right now…
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:09 AM | Link to this
Don, you’re probably right. And Betamit is busy making a case for himself to whoever’s looking, Braves or anyone else. This can only be a good thing, however it works out.
By chopthis
July 18, 2006 04:14 AM | Link to this
Dave,
I don’t think any Steve Earle album matches El Corazon, but I Feel Alright and The Mountain come close for me. If I could write just one song half as good as those Steve Earle seems to simply dash off as a matter of routine (“Here I Am” is probably the Earle song I most admire), I’d be a totally fulfilled individual.
Ditto on Lucinda. How is it a mere mortal can have a masterpiece like “Metal Firecracker” inside her?
All I ask Don’t tell anybody the secrets Don’t tell anybody the secrets I told you
Lucinda knows the heartbreaking truth — your secrets always get told.
Oh — you’d probably be ineterested to know that a very hung-over Lucinda showed up at the Smithsonian next day as a symposium panelist. She didn’t have much to say — just drank a lot of coffee, mostly, and tried to shade her bloodshot eyes with her sunglasses and hat — but she enjoyed some of the Hank discussion and especially the few surviving film clips of Hank that were shown. She was as riveted as the rest of us mere mortals when a video was presented of Hank performing “Cold, Cold Heart” from a 1952 episode of “The Kate Smith Show” — even fellow geniuses seem to stand in speechless awe when Hank holds the stage. Just an amazing performer.
Anyway, Lucinda left when the symposium broke for lunch and didn’t return. I would have tried to get her autograph, but she seemed to be suffering pretty badly from the night before, plus she had a very large, somewhat intimidating dude escorting her out. Anyway, I was too distracted pursuing an unescorted Don Helms into the Smithsonian men’s room so I could shake the hand that played the steel guitar intro to “Your Cheatin’ Heart” — I stood by patiently while he washed first, of course.
It was a great weekend. If John Prine had been there, it would have been perfect.
As long as you’re in St. Louis, be sure to say hello to Chuck Berry for me.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 04:18 AM | Link to this
Grinch, the only thing better than the one you describe is a plain tomato sandwich using loads of Kraft Mayo, a little salt, and ripe homegrown, old fashioned, thin skinned tomatoes. Now I don’t mind some crisp bacon or ham to go on it either … but the simple, plain one is the messiest and the best … from where I sit.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:22 AM | Link to this
ChopThis, I recorded a 2 hour biography of Steve Earle a couple of years ago off some satellite channel I can’t quite remember, but it was really good. I loved his music before, but this biography made me realize he’s a genuine American hero. All B.S. aside. There are precious few of those left.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 04:26 AM | Link to this
Grinch, I give a rip but the wife is sick … we had store bought food tonight …and it didn’t like either of us … so it’s somewhat of a question if I’ll return any time soon. I do want to hear more about your dad … if not tonight, then a bit later.
Be on the lookout for a lost post … I sent you one about tomato sandwiches but it seems not to have made the trip … no error messages, it’s just not there.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:32 AM | Link to this
Bacon is almost always better than ham, at least in these circumstances…but I was lazy and had a plethora of packaged ham to deal with. I am glad it was a plethora and not a peleton…too many bicycles in the kitchen! I agree…the essential elements were/are unhealthy amounts of mayo and real garden tomatoes…yum! A little sea-salt and coarse-ground black pepper aren’t totally unwelcome…Bob, you and I could do signifigant damage to a properly construed buffet…
By chopthis
July 18, 2006 04:33 AM | Link to this
Grinch,
Steve Earle’s legacy as an American master is secure. I hope he takes care of himself and gives us many more years of amazing music. I saw Bill Monroe perform once, and that’s my greatest live music thrill, but I’m also very grateful to have seen Steve Earle. You should catch him in concert next chance you get.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 04:34 AM | Link to this
I see it now and Steve Earle is a winner in my book too … as I would have said had I been the General … I shall return in the sweet by and by.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:45 AM | Link to this
Pelaton, excuse me. I can’t even be a smart-a* at this point, I’m too inhibited. Not good you had the store-bought food experience; I am still endowed with an iron constitution and am thus usually impervious. I have good taste, but can eat like a goat. The other day I ate an omelette made from eggs and meat my lovely young female companion (who is a ), suggested I throw away, and it phased me not. She was ultimately less worthy than the omelette, but that belongs in a different blog. I don’t know what I’ll do when my body fails me…I’ve already done so much to fail my body. It comes back to lick the hand that beats it. I know, I exhausted everyone’s interest after the first sentence or so. I’ll shut up for now.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:53 AM | Link to this
Or not, as the AJC sees fit to put italics where I put them not. That was not me. Not that I don’t condone italics…anyway, I hope Earle stays around myself. As for Bill Monroe, he is the Brando “Godfather” of bluegrass. I’d give my eye-teeth to see either of them live. Remember, untill 4 months ago I was in south GA. where we’d be lucky to see 5 morons with amps at Billy Jack’s.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:56 AM | Link to this
Yes, that’s a real bar about 500 yards from where I moved from. Hence my nonsense.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 04:58 AM | Link to this
Some of my nonsense; can’t lay it all on Billy.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 05:04 AM | Link to this
Grinch, I’m headed to bed … my wife reminds me that my favorites are good old crowfooted Hampton tomatoes … they’re good to eat right off the vine with a just a touch of that sea salt you mentioned … of course, I like fresh ground black pepper on just about anything!
Sleep well!
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 05:16 AM | Link to this
Bob, just read earlier posts…where, exactly, is your third ear located?
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 05:18 AM | Link to this
I’ll let you slide for tonight! Pleasant dreams, Bob. I’ll be up making little sense as is my duty. :-)
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 05:21 AM | Link to this
Damn. It’s about sunrise. Maybe I ought to take my silly behind to sleep, as well. ‘night, all.
By Andy
July 18, 2006 05:33 AM | Link to this
David—-what I think Kruk is saying is the entire western division and basically the central division is in front of us for the wild card….so they can keep playing 500 ball and we would have a hard time catching them because there are so many teams ahead of us there is no mathmatical way they can all lose for the braves to gain ground on first. The way I have to look at it is the braves are 3 games out of second for the wild card—not 5 to 8 teams behind—-just 3 games out of second. The Braves have to get to second before they can get to 1st in the wild card. I don’t know if this helps david but it helps me. Take care.
By ncscoots
July 18, 2006 06:47 AM | Link to this
I was going to write a post about WB, but rethought it. So I’ll just ramble a little this morning, because I don’t really have any new pertinent points to make. I want to say that the blog has been just excellent recently, especially compared to the content a few weeks ago. Shoot, it was so bad, I basically gave up on it, but the quality of the content has really returned in a big way. CL’s charm, Bob’s mini-essays, jimmy’s humor, hk’s graphs, TPaul’s insight, MBATL’s analysis, nathan’s passion (didn’t expect that one, did ya, my friend?), Lew and Stanford And The Grinch providing cogent posts, and dare I say it, erudition…these folks and a lot more space requires me to leave out are really making the blog a fine thing (but you know who I miss? Voice Of Reason…that dude had a sharp baseball mind). I appreciate it, folks.
By Carroll
July 18, 2006 07:35 AM | Link to this
I have been saying all year that Betemit should be leading off. I’m not 100% sure, but if I remember correctly, he has led off roughly 6 or 7 times this year, and almost every time it has resulted in a mammoth offensive output. Now, it could just be coincidence, but, I think it’s because he gives us exactly what we need out of the leadoff spot….and remember last year we didn’t start winning until Fookster turned it around.
By Midtown ATL
July 18, 2006 07:46 AM | Link to this
Shiell WILL Pitch on Wednesday night. He is on a plane to St. Louis now.
By Don
July 18, 2006 08:17 AM | Link to this
DOB is right on McCann being the best young player on this team. His development as a hitter in the last year has been remarkable. That grand slam AB last night was one of the best I’ve seen since Franco worked Farnsworth for 10-12 pitches a couple of years ago and then took him off the right field wall at Wrigley (a memory that caused me to never trust Farnsworth, a head case with a 98 mph fastball but no ‘out’ pitch).
Sutcliffe and ESPN did a nice job with the graphic showing how the Cards kept trying to beat McCann inside. He took an outside pitch to left for a hit the first time up and took a low and inside pitch out to right the second time. The kid looks like 22 going on 32 both as a hitter and behind the plate. I wish some of McCann’s approach to hitting would rub off on Frenchy. Maybe Frenchy needs to be working with McCann’s pop if he isn’t already. Come to think of it, how about McCann’s pop (“private hitting instructor” according to ESPN last night) as a candidate for the next Braves hitting coach?
By Hal
July 18, 2006 09:26 AM | Link to this
I Noticed earlier in the blog Chop chop posted the adress of baseball america as a good refrence to minor league teams etc .it is Great!
Another option for those of the braves nation who want to check out our prospects is milb dot com the offical site of minor league baseball.There you can check out every single games box score ,standings team stats etc
Hope someone finds this site interesting and Go Braves
By Joe Roman
July 18, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this
McCann’s at bat the led to the grand slam was one of the finest I’ve seen. If he can do that in his sophomore season, imagine what he’s going to be like in a few years. Pitchers will come out of the game after facing him and be sent directly to a mental hospital. He absolutely destroyed Weaver’s confidence last night. With an offense playing like this, the Braves only need OK pitching. Following the wild card race is too complicated. Let’s watch the gap between the Braves and Mets as it narrows. I think this team is after a division title, and I think they’re going to get it!
By Lew
July 18, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this
Apparently I missed conversations of great moment in the wee hours of the morning. Circadian rhythms? Zeus-like parental units? Red eye gravy and biscuits? Why do I bother sleeping. Grinch, never apologize for a Taco Bell addiction. Believe it or not, Taco Bell does not raise your blood sugar because they don;t use heavy processed carbs like the burger joints. Refried beans may affect your body in some ways, but diabetes ain’t one of them. Journalist Bob-as a former up to 3 pack a day guy (for 33 years), I must tell you QUIT NOW. I did ten years ago and if I hadn’t I might not be posting this. Please quit-it’s hard but you have to-it won’t get any better. So much for the sermonizing. Good morning y’all.
By Vinnie Boombotz
July 18, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this
I never seen a bunch of fans so giddy about being 11.5 games out and actually believing they got a shot to win their division… What a bunch of hicks.
By Billy
July 18, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this
Not that I think the Mets are that much better than the Braves but they are not worse. I dont see them struggling enough for us to win the division. If the Mets played .500 base ball for the rest of the way we (the Braves) would have to go 47-22. It’s possible but I just dont see it as the Mets are better than a .500 team. If we make the playoffs its gonna have to be the wildcard.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 18, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this
journalist jimmy smith must hurry! journalist is off to a meeting in a few minutes. still, journalist is compelled to post with news of giles’ pulled plug. rumors abound that the thumb injury is a follow-up to helmet slapping in the braves dugout. giles slapped a helmet repeatedly as betemit had four hits, a hr, and 5 rbi’s last night. now, country ham biscuits - a biscuit should be sopped in gravy - that’s right, soppped. jimmysmiththinks this is really good eatin’. now, blue worms - they are out with a new album and dob can’t find it. blue worms are not to be eaten with mayonnaise - hellman’s or kraft. june carter cash used to make biscuits but killed johnny cash with a bad batch. even the gravy wouldn’t make those little biscuits slide down the famous throat. now, chipper jones … runs hard and keeps on goin’ - much like the energizer bunny - only with bad toes. forget frenchy - let mccann’s daddy spend some time with andruw. now, two more hostas have been lost overnight and jimmy smith’s crossman air rifle has not yet been fired. we know it is not aaron.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 18, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this
one last thought, whither laroche?
By dylan
July 18, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
I just wanted to post a link to an article about the lack of releif pitching in hopes you understand the difficulty of JS’ job and why he didnt want to spend alot of money to get a releif pitcher this offseason.http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/jon_weisman/07/17/relievers.random/index.html
By CharlotteDave
July 18, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this
In my opinion, many people don’t take a broad enough view of the wild card situation. If the Braves have a great second half that will automatically take card of most and hopefully all of those mediocre teams in front of them. If they don’t have a great second half it won’t matter anyway. The number of teams ahead of the Braves is largely irrelevant. It has absolutely no impact on whether or not the Braves are good enough to win their 85 to 88 games, which should be enough and is about as much as would be realistic.
The team I’m most worried about changes from time to time, but right now it would be Cincinnati. For all the criticism they recieved over their recent trade, it might make them a better team for this year. They still have good hitting and now they might have a solid bullpen. They get the Braves in Cincinnati later in the year.
By TennesseePaul
July 18, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this
The Red Sox have some young pitcher coming up and doing well, why are the Braves so afraid to do that???
I saw that line in a post up there somewhere. I’m not sure what this is even supposed to mean. Why are the Braves so afraid to do what? Bring up Kyle Davies, Chuck James, McCay McBride, Jeff Francoeur, Brian McCann, Blain Boyer, Ryan Langerhans, Wilson Betemit, Scott Thorman, Pete Orr, and so on… It would appear to me that the Braves have no fear at all about bringing up young talent at any and every position.
11.5 games behind the Mets. If we can keep this pace up, we’ll clinch the Division by mid August.
I’m really hoping we can pull close enough to the Mets to make a serious race out of this. I think the Braves can do it. The one thing I fear though, is the Braves wrapping it up early again. This day and age, you must be running full speed all the way through the finish line. Much like we did through the All-Star break.
There’s a lot of baseball left. I wanna see these Bravos go out there and hit the snot out of the ball and pitch the hell out of the other teams. I wanna see Hudson show up. HoRam get healthy. Chuck James make the proper adjustments for the second trip through the lineup.
GO BRAVES
By Sam
July 18, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this
Charlotte Dave - correct. This idea that having five or six teams ahead of the Braves makes it harder to win the card is bunk. It’s the games back that matters and nothing else. Thus, win, and the rest takes care of itself. Vinnie - we know that Mets are going to the win the East. The Braves are concerned with the Wild Card. You know, that thing you guys used to get the playoffs in your grand total of 2 trips since 1988. Could you please leave now?
By journalist PENN
July 18, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this
journalist Bob, your mentioning of Loveless Cafe brought back a very pleasant memory. A few years back the missus and i were visiting our son who lives in Nashville and has his office in Henderson. While there we were treated to a breakfast at Loveless. That boy knows the old man’s taste buds.
It was truly a grand morning and I think I tried a little of almost everything but the biscuits and country ham were outstanding. “methinks” tennessee may have the winning formula on curing country hams. i’ve bought some mighty good ones around Sevierville and other points east.
As for the Braves I find my nerves already getting on edge just waiting for 8:00 tonight. i plan to be sitting in front of my computer watching each and every pitch. this MLB TV is better than nothing and it only costs $79.95 a year. this is my second year. i think that has something to do with MLB peeling games away from TBS, WGN and any other station that broadcasts games outside their home territory.
let’s hear it for McCann. They ought to award Rookie of the Year (retroactively) to that boy or failing that, if the Braves make it to the playoffs I vote for him for MVP. he is the ONLY Brave who never folded.
How many votes can i get for hiring McCann SR. as Braves batting coach? Or failing that how about hiring him as the roaming batting coach? for sure the kids out in the organization will listen to him after seeing what he was able to do with Brian. Hey, maybe TP could pick up a few pointers on teaching the art of hitting from that fellow.
By ugadawg
July 18, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this
I don’t know about everyone else, but I don’t care if Giles wakes up with his finger 100%, I just don’t see how Cox could possibly consider benching Betemit to put Giles back in after the show that Betemit has put on recently. I know that Cox will do it, though….
By journalist PENN
July 18, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this
one final comment before going off to my weekly liars’ poker game.
if the division flag is not possible this year this ole dude would be quite happy to see the Braves get close enough to the Muts to make them nervous. what i want to see is the Muts fans sneaking back into that hell hole they call home. of course once we win the WC we must then knock the Muts out of the playoffs. that would be almost as good as winning a WS. i’m not bitter, i just don’t like the Muts fans’ brand of “humor.” :)
By Ron Roberts
July 18, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this
Billy I disagree with you, just a little bit…
I happen to think the Mets will fare no better than hover around .500 the remainder of the season if they don’t pick up a decent starter before the trade deadline. Pedro’s ailing in multiple places, Glavine has fairly average 2nd halves, and putting the onus on him alone to carry a team is a lot to ask of a 40-year old. What’s after those two? Trachsel is 43-44 all-time in August and September, so they’ll have to bash the ball consistently to do better than .500 without adding an arm - and that’s why you see ‘em so active in the hot stove league.
I’m not sure that’ll enable the Braves to win the division, as a 47-22 tear is asking a lot of the current roster, but if we can somehow grab a middle relief guy or closer via a trade, I’ll take this squad against anybody in the NL and not blink.
Horacio’s pitching relatively well, and he’s essentially a 4th starter doing 3rd or 2nd starter stuff these days - as long as he stays healthy. Smoltz is Smotlz - our rock. Hudson just needs to figure things out for us to have a chance at any postseason spot. Chuck James has been a formidable addition to the rotation, though he’s starting to show cracks (much like Kyle Davies did last year when he came on strong and regressed to ‘normalcy’ - which still wasn’t bad for a rookie!).
Getting a healthy and competitive Kyle Davies back in mid-to-late August could be a big shot in the arm (no pun intended) for us, similar to picking up a decent middle-of-the-rotation arm via late-season trade. That’ll only matter if we’re in a race, and I think we’re showing that we’re going to be.
Looking at the schedule, there’s no reason to presume the Braves won’t be somewhere around 72-61 at the end of August. A 17-9 September going into what could be a crucial series against Houston (at home - can we FILL some seats, Braves fans?) isn’t out of the realm, either. I’m thinking 2 of 3 in that series wins the wild card.
And if the Mets do hover around .500 the remainder of the season, it won’t have us far from theme, either.
By Mets Stink
July 18, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this
Last 10 games: Braves 8-2; Mets 7-3. They are playing well enough to hold on to the division.
By flbravesgirl
July 18, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
Looks like I missed some interesting stuff after heading off to sleep. Grinch, I am a night owl by nature but unfortunately I have to adjust to the rest of the world’s schedule. Grinch Sr. sounds like quite a character.
I am loving all the praise of McCann! I get the impression that he was always a little bit in Francoeur’s shadow before this year. Nice to see him getting the accolades he’s due!
By Don
July 18, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
Those of you who think the number of teams ahead of the Braves is irrelevant are mathematically challenged. When the teams in front are playing each other, they can’t both lose.
By TennesseePaul
July 18, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this
Mets Stink: Last 10 games: Braves 8-2; Mets 7-3. They are playing well enough to hold on to the division.
This is a good observation. Also, check out who the Mets are playing. I know they were up against the Pirates for a while there.
Now look at who the Braves are playing. In the past two to three weeks, it’s only been first place teams. First in the WC, or first in the division. And we have been spanking them.
Now, fast forward to August. We play what looks to be an extremely favorable schedule. IF we can continue this pace of hitting and playing through the August schedule, we will be right up there in the Division race. The Mets schedule isn’t nearly as favorable as ours.
And let’s not forget… we have 9 games left against the Mets, of which 6 are at home.
It’s a lot to ask. But I don’t think it’s too much. I’m asking my team to win. To win they must beat the best. Might as well start by sweeping the Mets the rest of the season. That alone would put us at 2.5 games back. Of course, there is the outside chance that this could go the other way and we’d be 20+ games back. But, with the way our team has pounded on the Mets this season, I don’t think that’s going to happen. AND, I don’t know if anyone has noticed, but Chipper is awake. The ultimate Met killer is awake from his slumber. We are still in this thing. They need to play like it’s 1993, and then, in October, like it’s 1995.
By Snowball's Chance
July 18, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this
The Braves won’t trade Betamit.He is too valuable filling the utility role.He was great last year and is better this year.I think it was Harold Reynolds who said before the all star game that he wished there was a spot for utility players in the balloting. Tha NBA has a sixth man award .I don’t think baseball has any such thing. I wonder how long the Braves can keep Betamit in this role before they run out of options and can’t “afford” him.
By Mets Stink
July 18, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this
If the braves take care of business and go 9-0 or 8-1 against the Mets, then they are right in it. That’s a lot to ask, but wouldn’t it be sweet.
By CharlotteDave
July 18, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this
Big picture, Don, big picture.
By robdawg06
July 18, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this
I agrre. Only way Giles plays over Betemit is if BETEMIT gets hurt. Betemit is better than Giles period. Loyalty Schmolaty. You play who performs the best. This isn’t little league where you play the coach’s son because of who he is only.
By BB FAN
July 18, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this
I usually like Kruk just because he does same crazy things and he is not afraid to go against the norm. He was pretty good on the Best Damn Sports Show Period.
But Kruk saying that the Braves don’t have a chance at the Wild Card spot becasue the West teams will beat up on each other makes absolutely no sense at all.
In fact, if the West teams beat up each other, it will make it easier for the Braves to win the WC. That would mean the West teams play .500 ball. Of course the Braves would have to contine to play well… and win 63-67 % of their games too. The schedule is a lot easier the rest of the season so that is very possible. And a trade for a solid reliever would help make it possible.
I would love to see the Mets fall flat on their face. It would be great if they gave up the division lead to the Braves by losing 3 straight to them from September 26-28.
The Mets will be in trouble if they do not get a solid starter by the end of July. And they beeter hope Pedro gets healthy fast and that Reyes is not affected by the hand injury.
By TennesseePaul
July 18, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this
John Kruk also called the Diamondbacks to win the West last year. He based his assesment on the signing of Russ Ortiz. I don’t think Kruk really knows what’s going on. He’s out gunned by a true Hall of Famer, Peter Gammons, when it comes to baseball analysis and historical knowledge. But I give him props for bringing his ball to the game.
By Lew
July 18, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this
RobDawg-Betemit’s better than Giles? Betemit may be a hotter hitter than Giles at the moment, but haven’t you seen Betemit tripping over his feet in the field? Giles is one of the best if not the best defensive second baseman in the National League. Let’s also see how Betemit does long term. Giles has a lifetime .300 average, or pretty damn close to it. Let the Giles bashing begin. Just like the Chipper bashing (Oh well, I guess they shut up) or the LaRoche bashers (oh, I guess they finally shut up, too). Let’s not keep falling into the same old trap. At this point Betemit is a talented sub.
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this
It is simple people: If we continue to win the standings will take care of themselves. Remember in mid-late june the Braves were in last place in the division? That means since then they have passed 3 teams. If they keep winning 14 of 20 or close to that they’ll be in first for the wild card by early-mid August. If they keep winning… can’t afford any sweeps or losing streaks the rest of the way out… and for the love of GOD, Hudson, pull it together! (hopefully he wasn’t listening to Baseball Tonight last night, according to them everything’s fine, UNREAL!)
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this
I don’t care to get into the numbers game … years ago, the son of our maid always drove her to work in a big Cadillac car … but one day she asked mama for “car fare” (money for the streetcar … for you children under sixty). We found out that her son had been running the “bug” and was enjoying an extended vacation, compliments of the State … now, the State runs the game. Numbers are like that, dangerous things to play around with.
However, if you don’t think it makes any difference how many teams are ahead us … consider this … two games back with two to go; two teams ahead and they’re are playing each other. Oh my gosh, call that nice fat lady … methinks the party’s over!
Jimmy, Scoots, I’ve decided to try using “methinks” on the blog, in leiu of my attempts to indulge in the use of the vulgar … that way I won’t feel obliged to periodically explain meself.
Grinch, you don’t really need to know where your third ear is located in order to use it … mine’s located on the right innerwall of the Pineal Gland … ‘cause I’m naturally right handed. But, don’t fret if you can’t find it … it’s so small that you can’t see it with the naked eye, but it’s more powerful than this heralded Braves offense!
Essayist … goodness! Methinks that y’all are having me on.
By Sam
July 18, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this
Bob et al. You are right - sort of. It DOES matter how many teams are ahead of us if you define the scenario in such restrictive terms. Yes, 2 games to go, 2 teams ahead, 2 games back. I get that. However, that’s hardly the situation. And, lest we forget, while they can’t all lose when playing each other they can’t all WIN either. The bottom line is precisely as Don states it - we win 60% to 70% the rest of the way and the rest will take care of itself. The number of teams ahead of the Braves means absolutely nothing - it’s the games back. 5 games back with 6 teams in between is a FAR better position than 7 or 10 back with 2 or 3 teams in between. There’s just no way around that.
By Billy
July 18, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this
robdawg06,
Thats a legit opinion. However, dont complain when players such as Furcal, Sheffeild, and others leave for more money. Lots of fans complain about a so and so player leaving for more money and forget Loyalty to their team. I don’t blame players that take the best deal thats possible as if you have bad times fans and media will have no mercy. So you have to watch out for whats in their best intrest. Example Alex Rodrigez. Did what he thought was in the best intrest of the Texas Rangers and the Yankees by accepting a trade and switching positions…..look at the treatment he gets in New York now.
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this
“I never seen a bunch of fans so giddy about being 11.5 games out and actually believing they got a shot to win their division… What a bunch of hicks.”
Vinnie, I guess you don’t remember them great comeback Braves teams of 91, 95, and 2001 who were all but done at the midpoint and came back to get into the playoffs, Oh That’s Right your probably a dumb-a-s-s closet mutts/yankees fan
Get da f-c-k out my face with that nonsense…
Go Braves!
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this
It’s no wonder the Padres want Betemit, if they got him right now, he’d possibly be the best hitter on the team. Look at some of his numbers compared to Brian Giles… In almost twice as many at-bats for Giles (347 to Betemit’s 171) - WB has more HR’s, (8 to 6), higher AVG by .18 pts (.298 to .280), much higher slugging pctg (.520 to .389), and only 22 less RBI, in HALF as many at bats! And they don’t want to give up Linebrink for this guy? Their loss…
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this
Penn, John Hunter sent a nice reply with some good advice … but was unable to help. However, my young nephew … now with Lockheed in fareastern Georgia (Alabama), evidently told a fib when he said he couldn’t help … felt bad about his sin, and emailed me a valid number last night.
Methinks he must want some help with his golf game! Hit ‘em straight kid! Actually, his problem is with “connection” and “balance” … just like our Mr. Jones, the younger.
Biscuits at The Loveless … my oh my! Thanks again for your interest and help with my problem!
By Stanford
July 18, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this
Grinch, sorry for getting testy (no jokes, please. It’s too easy). I should have been in bed, I guess.
If our biggest problem was choosing between Giles and Betemit, we would be in great shape. I think Betemit is just fine where he is, filling in at 3 positions and a great bat off the bench.
Kruk was SO adamant in his comments, that it’s simply over. Didn’t he watch the Astros last year? We’re in better position than they were. Plus, if we can stabilize the pitching just a little, we are simply better than the teams ahead of us. Doesn’t that count for something, Kruk?
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this
I think Betemit is gone people. He is the only “expendable” player who could warrant a quality arm in return. I mean, a team like the Pirates, Rockies, Marlins, Padres, Indians, Twins, Royals would all DIE to have a hitter who already produces and who’s potential is yet to be reached, wouldn’t they??? I mean, he’s perfect for those teams because he’s not even free-agent eligible for another 4 years after this one right?
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe so many of you guys still watch that crap on baseball tonight, That show is horrible, PTI, NFL Primetime, Quite Frankly are the only shows on that channel worth watching
Marquis against Hudson, I think Both pitchers will be out by the fifth inning
Does anyone remember how Hudson did on the days where it was 95 degrees plus last year???
Many were saying that he got used to the maritime climate out in Oakland and needed to adjust to the hot weather of the south, I think that was a bunch of B.S. in that he played college ball at Auburn, I think he just needs to gain some weight…
I expect him to fatigue early, and 4 it to be a battle of the Blow-pens
I hope I’m wrong however…
By TennesseePaul
July 18, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this
I love WillyB’s work. But if trading him means quality bullpen relief, I’ll take it. From everything I read, Yunal is pretty close to ready. I’d like to see his whistlin’ on the field.
Tomahawkin You forgot to mention the come back team of 1993 (August 2nd, 10 games out). Or the come back team of 2005 (Came from behind with 18 rookies). Actually, it’d probably be a shorter list if we put down the years when the Braves had a big lead at this time. It seems we’re always fighting our way back to the top. But this year will be especially sweet.
Can I get a GO BRAVES around here!
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this
Enjoy the game all, You guys are lucky to have Turner South, I have to watch the game on the Cardinal network, At least they don’t have Joe Buck on there now, I can actually tolerate them more than those fools at ESPN…
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this
Tenn- Paul, I forget about that one, I just had to check Vinnie, so it slipped my mind, other than 91, 93 was the best pennant race coming down to the last Sunday of the Season, When David Justice hit those 2 homeruns against the Rockies, and Mike Piazza hit the homerun to beat the Giants that day, Sweet Memories…
By Tomahawkin
July 18, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this
Maybe, sending Reeksma out 4 the year, lifted the Curse of the KOLB, anyone see the effects the last 2 weeks?
By hk
July 18, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this
Sam, CharlotteDave,
… well, it does actually matter (statistically that is) how many teams are ahead or near the Braves …
….for example, let’s say we think if the Braves can win 87 (which would be quite an achievement), that will be enough … if there was only one team above or near our record, the chances of that team doing better might be 2-5% …. if there were five teams, the chances of one of them making it(only takes one) would go up, maybe 5-10% …. with the ten teams that actually have comparable records to ours, it goes up to say 10-20% of a chance …
… however, if I’m Bobby Cox, I say forget statistics and probabilities …. it really depends solely on our performance … if it takes 87 games, that’s what we have to do, if it takes 90 that’s what we have to do ..
By Woogidy
July 18, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this
First of all, I think Hudson is too rested normally. A sinkerball pitcher should always go deeper into the game. I think Huddy will be good tonight on short rest, lot of ground balls are expected. Second, On July 18, 2005 Houston was 6.5 games out in the wild card behind ironically the Braves. For what its worth.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this
Good morning, all! Regarding baseball tonight: I think Kruk just likes to hear himself talk. Stanford, thank you for keeping me off the anatomy joke. As for apologies, none are neccessary…you were only pointing out the evident. I wasn’t making a lick of sense (not that that’s anything unusual), and I’m not thin-skinned. I’d be hypocritical if I was; I’m often offensive without meaning to be. Bob, I can’t find my socks, much less my third ear! Lew, I’m glad Taco Bell is good for me (relatively), because I’d be SOL if it weren’t. Mmmmm…tacos… Betamit does look awful good in the leadoff role; I’d hate to be faced with that decision. Wish we had that problem with our pitchers!
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this
Now I know I must still be asleep…hk, did you just say “forget statistics and probabilities?” :-) As for Hudson, he shouldn’t really be that tired; he didn’t make it out of the fourth inning last start.
By Chop Chop
July 18, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this
Tomahawkin,
I can’t believe anyone watches any ESPN programming other than NFL stuff, College Gameday or actual sporting events. I can’t even stomach much more than a few minutes of SportsCenter anymore. “Quite Frankly”, it stinks. “PTI” is another show I can only take in small doses. I certainly don’t watch “Baseball Tonight”, where Karl Ravech is one of the worst studio hosts in ESPN history. Give me any other host (other than Stu Scott, of course) and that show would be more watchable (minus all of the other guys on the show, of course). Ravech should stick to golf. He’s good at that.
In my opinion, the best hosts ESPN has are Rece Davis and Dave Revsine. What do the rest of you think?
By journalist PENN
July 18, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
Did someone mention Kolb? So far this year he has had two save opportunities and has blown both of them. He has given up 3 HR and 20 ER in 30 innings and has a 5.87 ERA and has walked 14. Sound familiar? I wonder where he will be pitching next year.
i feel sorry for him but when you make that much money you are supposed to get people out.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
Sam, I think that we can agree that it’s hard to get folks to change their politics, religion, or baseball opinions. I don’t talk baseball or numbers much because, as much as I love both, I’m somewhat embarrassed to have folks find out how little I actually know … much better pontificating about country music, downhome cookin’ and telling tall tales.
But I do think that most folks agree that our focus must be on what we do … and not the performance of other teams, regardless of their position in the standings. Bobby always emphasizes the importance of taking it one game ata time and not underestimating any opponent … and I agree with that!
Our best chance is for the team to continue to give it their best effort each and every inning, and let the rest take care of itself … as it is with all the competition … so that’s belaboring a bit of the obvious.
However, I posit that it’s mathematically provable that the more teams that there are ahead of you, the less control you have of your own destiny … and the less likely it is that you will acheive your goal of rising to the top. So, even if I were to emotionally agree with you, I’d be rather reluctant to suggest that our relative rank in the standings was of no consequence.
Nevertheless, when the teams ahead are of relatively equal strength … and are playing each other, the opportunity is there to gain significant ground if they do indeed neutralize each other while you destroy your own competition. It appears that that might just be the current situation … allowing us to come from far back in the pack, pass them all, and win it at the wire. After all, we’re the Braves!
By hk
July 18, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
Grinch,
… on stats and stuff, I’m with Bob, it’s a ‘familiarity breeds contempt’ sort of thing :))
By Stanford
July 18, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
Almost lost in all the talk about the scoring is that HoRam pitched very well. 2 hits in 5, against a pretty good lineup. Anybody heard about the extent of his injury?
I think Kruk also said that the wild card would come out of the West. I’ll be surprised if the 2nd place team in the West has a .500 record.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, I agree with your picks and your analysis; the quality of sportscenter has definitely declined. But Linda Cohn is so sexy, it makes up for her lack of skill…
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
And exactly why are the Braves rushing to put Hudson out there on short rest? Can’t wait to end the winning streak or what?
By TennesseePaul
July 18, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this
PENN: So what you’re saying is, Kolb’s performance this year has been… kolbian.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
Grinch, you don’t need your third ear for that one … HK said “if I’m Bobby Cox, I say forget statistics and probabilities” … but he ain’t Bobby and methinks he still loves his graphs as much as I do country ham!
But, regardless which side of the issue you take, his point is well made … the important thing is to win more than anyone else in the race. Then all you have to worry about is winning your last game … do that, and everything be fine!
By geauxbraves2000
July 18, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this
It does not matter if there are 872 teams ahead the Braves. Whoever finishes with the best record in the division wins their division, whoever finishes with the best record among non division winners wins the wildcard.
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this
Hi HK! You’re timely as always … Jimmy said that some folks think this Blog is for “High Brows” … we needed that bit of Twain to put those John Deer detractors in their place.
By hk
July 18, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this
Journalist Bob,
… yes, yes, I do love the numbers, but like other things we love, we perhaps acquire illusions about them, develop unrealistic expectatations, and we become perplexed when they disappoint us … like the Braves, and, well, other things …
By Bob, journalist
July 18, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
geauxbraves2000, true but Raymond Burr might offer an objection or three.
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this
Bob, I think I blew my third ear out last night. Ham…I just had a sandwitch with black forest ham, provolone, fresh tomato and basil. Yum. Grinch the Elder’s girlfriend keeps wonderous deli things in her fridge…unfortunately I must now leave and get some work done. Thank god I’m able to set my own hours for the most part, or I’d be a basket case. Of course, an argument could be made that I already am. I will be back and revved up for game time. These Braves are exibiting special qualities…
By Stanford
July 18, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this
Hudson pitched against the Mets last year on 3 days rest. 8 innings, no runs. Maybe it will be a good thing.
On July 1 we were behind 10 teams, and 10 games back. We’ve cut the lead in half, and passed three teams, in 2 weeks (allowing for the allstar break). Just have to stay hot a while longer to make it a 2 or 3 team race, and then take our best shot.
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this
I don’t mind Kruk or H.R. on ESPN, the pr!ck I can’t stand is Steve Phillips, what a TOOL that guy is. Other guys I can’t stand are Stephen A. Smith, Boomer, Stu Scott, IRVIN, and last but certainly not least, the worst of the worst, SEAN SALSIBURY. That guy jumps on bandwagons faster than Colin Cowherd! Salisbury (or however you spell it) was calling the Colts the best team ever after week 6 last year. I think it was Pasquarelli or some other sportswriter for ESPN said the Colts were not a team built to win in the playoffs and that it would show again this year (this was in week 6 or 7 i think). I thought Salisbury was going to start crying, he got so upset that someone would say that about a “perfect” football team. Who’s right now ya’ doosh bag?
By DonCoburleone
July 18, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
Where’s DOB? I expected him to be on here or have another blog up by now. Maybe he’s still sleeping…
By The Grinch
July 18, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this
Ok, now I’m on my way out the door…just had to take a moment to agree with you, DonC. Phillips, Smith and Salisbury are all a*******clowns, Boomer always sounds like he’s constipated and about to have an aneurism, and Stu Scott tries harder than anyone I’ve ever seen to be ghetto; I bet he doesn’t know a single black person outside his own family. He’d get lynched if he ever actually went through the hood. Don’t forget Tim (or Tom, I can’t remember which because he’s irrelevent) Tolbert. What a loser. Pasquarelli’s usually pretty close-on, and he’s the only one there who ever even mentions the Falcons besides Thiesmann (who only does because he’s in man-love with Mike Vick). Of course, Len used to write for the AJC. Later, Y’all.
By LawDawg
July 18, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this
did somebody say that linda cohn was “sexy”? your kidding right? i don’t think i’ve ever heard of anyone liking linda cohn (that goes for her sportscasting and appearance)
-its about time to light up the ex-brave on the mound - LET’S GO BRAVOS!!!!!!!!
By Sam
July 18, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this
Forget about Linda Cohn being sexy…I think Tim Hudson will beat Marquis. It will be a real battle but I think Tim will win. Please don’t bet your mortgage on him but Hudson will finally win a game in about one month.
By robdawg06
July 18, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this
The numbers are there for Betemit and not Giles. Betemit was 4 for 6 just last night.
On another note, John Kruk (ESPN employee) is on drugs for saying “The Braves need to get something for Smoltz while they can.” “Send him back to Detroit for a couple of prospects.” I’d take Smoltz over all but about 3 pitchers in MLB right now ! Kruk needs to eat another twinkie to shut his fat and unintelligent mouth !
By robdawg06
July 18, 2006 08:08 PM | Link to this
So Todd Jones wanted to be a Brave (he’s saved 24 of 27 chances for Detroit this year) but JS wouldn’t go a 2 year contract ? That’s amazing to me. With that knowledge its even more infuriating that the Braves don’t have a real closer to this day. Braves are cheapskates that get retreads to depend on in the bullpen.
By robdawg06
July 18, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, can you ask Braves GM JS about the possibilities of trading for the Royals Zack Grienke,Jeremy Affeldt,or Mike MacDougall ? Or for the Orioles Rodrigo Lopez or Daniel Cabrera ? Maybe the Mariners Joel Pineiro ? Thank you in advance.
By 1957 Braves Fan
July 19, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this
I’ve been a Braves fan since 1957 when they had a AAA farm team in the American Association here in Wichita, Ks. So I’ve seen them as the best, the worst and the best again for 14 straight years. It’s hard to second guess JS after what he’s done. After the experience they’ve had with a couple of “top notch” closers who melted down with the Braves, I’m not sure I’g give anyone a two year contract. I’d say, “do it for me for a year and then we’ll talk about more after that.