AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2006 > July > 23 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USFrom surge to holding pattern … ugh
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Is it just me, or does it feel like the four-homers-a-day, seven-game winning streak was a long time ago, or at least more than a few days ago?
Man, the off day Thursday and rainout Saturday reminded me how preferable the every-day pace of baseball is to some of us over other sports….
Anyway, I’ll keep it brief, folks, but I noticed the blog was bogged down again with nearly 500 responses. And with no new one due to be filed until Monday, at which point this thing would be slower than Vinny Castilla’s bat this season, I decided I’d post a quick one here for you good people to continue your banter at a more workable pace.
Just checked with Stats Inc and noticed that, even though the Braves have played only one game in three days, they still had more than twice as many homers (40) this month as the NL average (19) and 11 more than the second-most in the league (Cardinals, 29) before today.
Braves had 135 runs in July, while the Mets (112) were the only other NL team with as many as 100 before today. Just underscores what a remarkable hitting surge that was. Braves just have to hope they didn’t leave it all west of the Mississip, and, more importantly, hope the Jones boys are back quickly.
Without them both continuing to fuel the offense, Braves’ playoff chances obviously would be diminished. It doesn’t sound as if either is a serious concern, but Chipper’s side strain sends up at least a small red flag in that those things can be nagging, annoying problems that linger. And with him on his best hitting surge since 1999, it’d be a shame , for his and the Braves’ sakes, to see it disrupted by another health issue.
For the months, Braves still had three of NL’s top 10 home run hitters before today, with Chipper (seven), Andruw and McCann (six apiece). I just watched Soriano hit his seventh of the month, and am left shaking my head over how hot he is. I think that’s four doubles, a triple and a homer in TWO DAYS.
Andruw still led majors with 23 RBIs for the month before today, just ahead of Big Papi, who had 22 for the BoSox. San Diego’s Adrian Gonzalez (21) was the only other NL player with more RBIs this month than Andruw (20) and McCann (20) _ yes, three of four RBI leaders were Braves before today.
But it won’t matter if the bullpen can’t hold leads, now, will it?
Hey, my old colleague Mike Berardino of the Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale pointed out today that Baseball Prospectus’ computer projections still give the Braves a 21 percent chance of making the playoffs, including a 2.2 percent chance of winning their 15th consecutive division title.
But if they don’t sweep the Mets next weekend at Turner Field, or at least win the series, I’d imagine that 2.2 percent goes to about .2 percent. Realistically, I think we all know the wild card is probably the only way the Braves are going to get into the postseason tournament. And that’s good enough. Just get there, and it starts anew. But “just” getting there isn’t going to be easy. Couple of wild-card leaders are starting to show a little bit of life now.
Wins the next two nights in Philly _ provided they play, of course _ would certainly stoke the embers of last week’s hitting surge and winning streak.
OK, I’ll go now. Have at it. Again, just wanted to give you guys a proper platform to discourse at a reasonable downloading speed.
Oh, I got the new Golden Smog CD _ excellent. Any of you who don’t know, it’s guys from Wilco, Jayhawks, etc. First studio album they’ve put out in eight years, I think. Also saw the Leonard Cohen documentary at Midtown Cinemas. Anyone who’s a fan of his must see it. It’s outstanding.
That’s it. I said I’d keep it short, and I did (relatively speaking). The Dude abides (watched The Big Lebowski at 2 a.m. last night, and was reminded of just how freakin’ cool The Dude was, is).
Comments
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this
very considerate, dob. thanks! now, how is the general toe health of this team? your report that hudson has bad toes has troubled this journalist but reinforces concerns about his health and stamina. sore toes make cowards of us all.
By Glass Half Full
July 23, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this
Are the Braves actively pursuing Joe Borowski or is that pundit speculation?
By Glass Half Full
July 23, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this
Where the hell is everybody?
By Matt
July 23, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this
I think everybody is still on the Phillies blog. Why couldn’t they play a double header today. I am getting bored. Studying for my CPA test and blogging. (not getting too much studying done). I wish it was 8.
By Glass Half Full
July 23, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this
I agree, Matt because September is going to be a beast for the Braves. Only 2 scheduled days off and one double-header already.
By MEB
July 23, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this
Well the weather on the radar looks great in the Philadelphia area. I agree it would have been great to play two.
By Matt
July 23, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this
Whoever loses tonight will be in 4th place. That sucks. We need to win and take this series. Except for one team, the Mets and possibly the Cardinals, its going to be a fight for the wildcard.
Is it just me or is everybody tired of hearing about how good the AL is to the NL. I hope the NL representative wins the World Series.
By Bob, journalist
July 23, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, my frivolous moral toe and tooth decay post to you is at the end of the previous blog.
By Paul
July 23, 2006 05:45 PM | Link to this
It could be to the braves advantage that yesterday’s game will be made up in September, hopefully by that point they will have traded Abreu, Burrell, etc.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this
journalist jimmy smith’s last post was lost. oh, the humanity! it was some of jimmy smith’s best work. journalist will try to recoup. just as scribe heads back to atlanta (‘get ‘em up), journalist jimmy smith heads to the coast (lay ‘em down)- eager for seafood. journalist is seeking the best seafood in florida - must be east coast since that is where journalist is going (no gulf coast eateries please, but journalist knows of some good ones there). journalist asks fellow bloggers for recommendations. where are the best seafood restaurants? journalist would also like to know what wicky and paronto think on this subject. big pants equal big appetites. at dusk, journalist will venture outside to the hosta beds. wish journalist luck.
By journalist jimmy smith with helpful reminder
July 23, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this
journalist bob, will you take a nap now? remember to have mrs. bob wake you for the game.
that attorney that helps gifted cats … chipper’s agent, right?
By Bob, journalist
July 23, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this
Grinch ET Alia, Wally Cox, the voice of the mighty “underdog” was one of my heros … so, with him on my side, 12-1 odds don’t scare me none! The Braves’ are evidently just staring 4-1 odds in the face … which sounds like even money, considering all the heroes on our team.
I don’t know that any of us are truly worthy of the difficult and unpleasant tasks we’re called upon to do … but somehow, if we face up to the obstacles and never give up … seemingly impossible things are accomplished … the Normandy Invasion, the Panama Canal, Hannibal’s Crossing of the Alps, and the Braves’ dramatic comeback in 2006!
You have to believe, try, and never give up … talk’s cheap … everyone has contributions to make and encouragement isn’t at the bottom of the list … Apathy and pessimism are a rally killers, same as strikeouts … let’s be a part of it and help make it happen!
Go Braves!
By Bob, journalist
July 23, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, Safe trip!! Thanks for running with the ball, the Fox would have been proud of you … the alarm is set!
By Lew
July 23, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this
It’s a shame that the esteemed Journalist is not partial to Gulf Coast food. The best seafood in Florida is at Leverock’s in St.Petersburg.
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this
Jimmy, the best seafood restaurants are on the coast of North Carolina…..
:-)))
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this
Well, there are a couple in South Carolina, but run a close second to our’n.
(Just pickin’, Florida!)
By Lew
July 23, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this
Journalist Bob-Just curious. Can the elephants pitch? Can Hannibal close? What are their contract terms? Would Hannibal trade an elephant for Jorge Sosa? Enquiring minds want to know.
By Bob, journalist
July 23, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know the BBQ Restaurants in Jacksonville considered to have the best sauce. I’m trying to recall one from several years ago when playing golf there … where the BBQ prok was very good but the sauce was among the very best I’ve ever had. I only remember that they had it available for purchase as a bottled item and would love to identify them and perhaps order some sauce.
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 06:49 PM | Link to this
jimmy, don’t know how far the peninsula you’re going, but, if it’s all the way , you absolutely must try Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami. Great food, and a chance to loiter with many local celebrities (yourself obviously would be welcomed by those folks as a kinred spirit).
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 06:58 PM | Link to this
Caolina Lady’s right about those NC seafood places…your best shot, though, when traveling the NC/SC coast is to look for one of those hole-in-the-wall, off-road seafood places (usally called something like “Betty’s Shrimper”, or worse). Now, THOSE places can almost make you forget Mama!
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this
Keep safe, cousin Jimmy! Have a great vacation, but take your laptop so you can stay in touch with us! When are you leaving?
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this
gaack..I can tell I haven’t been on the blog for a few days, must have a week’s worth of typos in my last two posts…
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 07:05 PM | Link to this
Scoots, you are right about that! Travel the back roads of the coast from Calabash up through Carolina Beach to Snead’s Ferry, Swansboro, Beaufort, all the way to the VA line. Food like you just wouldn’t believe! Ummmm-Um!
By Kentavo
July 23, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this
The best seafood is in Murrells Inlet, S.C.
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 07:23 PM | Link to this
Hey, Kentavo! Murrells Inlet is right there at the top! Goooood seafood!
(Really any place close to the docks is usually pretty good. So many of my ancestors made their daily living from the sea - back to the late 1700s.)
By Matt
July 23, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this
The best seafood is Capt. Anderson’s in Panama City
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this
Kentavo, true that are some mighty fine eats in Murrells Inlet. Not like it used to be, though, back in my rowdy days. Grand Strand has become pretty uptown, IMHO. I remember the days of Ocean Drive, the Pavilion, the Point over Garden City (where I once stopped a partying buddy of mine from attempting to swim to France, seemed like a good idea to him at the time), and other places and joints, back when the area wasn’t so, oh, cosmopolitan.
By Bob, journalist
July 23, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this
Lew, you know the answer to your own question … just look at their special pitching arm, designed for throwing extreemly effective spitballs … and with their size and leverage, fastballs attain speeds in excess of 200 miles per hour … or so I hear, they’re so fast you can’t see them!
They make good hitters too, using that special arm as a bat … no broken bats saves alot of money and they take mighty, well controlled swings!
As big and imposing as they are, nobody ever raises the issue of wearing pants … but they are susceptible to foot problems.
By David O'Brien
July 23, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this
I wished they’d played two today, only because now I’ll be covering that damn doubleheader Sept. 2 in Philly.
ncscooots, Joe’s Stone Crab is way good, but way, waaaay overpriced. And anyplace where greasing the man at the door gets you a good table, that ain’t a true seafood place, for me.
Having grown up in Greenville, N.C., and later lived in Fort Lauderdale for 13 years, I’d take the cheap-dive seafood joints on the Carolina coast over the mostly pretentious and/or tourist-trap ones in South Florida any day.
Carolina Lady, I remember my parents taking us three kids to one at our annual summer vacation spot, Morehead City, called Cap’t Bill’s. Does that ring a bell with you? I just remember fried flounder and hush puppies…. I also remember catching my first fish with my dad off the beach in Morehead, a big ‘ol flounder. We’d stick the poles in the sand and sit back and wait. Very good times….
Best barbeque, to me, is Eastern North Carolina pulled poor with vinegar-based sauce. Hands-down. They sell a reasonable version of it here at Dusty’s.
Second place would be a tie between Arthur Bryant’s and Gate’s in Kansas City, though a completely different tasting barbeque than the Eastern N.C. style we’d get at Parker’s and other places.
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this
now, baseball (and tip of the hat to the tripping jjs)…my baseball-stunning trade of the year: Hudson and LaRoche to LA Angels for Santana/Escobar and any reliever not named Brendan Donnelly, probably Carrasco/Romero. Angels need offense and 1B is a joke for ‘em, and they have a (relative) surplus of pitching, now that Escobar is back. Many ifs, of course…do Braves think Thorman is the real deal? Are Braves ready to give up on Hudson? Do Angels think Hudson will revert to form if back in the AL? Is LaRoche “sexy” enough a trade for the Angels?
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 07:46 PM | Link to this
Hey, David! Morehead is a great place! And, indeed, I’ll second Cap’t Bill’s! About the best hushpuppies I ever remember having! And flounder? Oooooooooh, yes!
OK. That does it! Y’all get your shoes. Time for some seafood!
:-))
(David, do you still have folks in the Greenville area?)
By David O'Brien
July 23, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this
meant greasing the man at Joe’s a $20, that is. or more, much more, if you’re a South Florida celeb or wannabe.
man, i hate those see-and-be-seen places down there, and especially the velvet-rope nightclubs on South Beach. we had a blast partying down there around 1989-93, before the place because too hip and overcrowded with the poseurs, etc.
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this
DOB, don’t disagree with your notes on Joe’s…just thought it’s the type of place that jimmy smith would get a kick out of if he’s never been there, and the food IS killer.
By David O'Brien
July 23, 2006 07:52 PM | Link to this
Carolina Lady, I’ve got relatives all over Greenville/Robersonvill/Stokes areas and Raleigh-Durham/Oxford areas. Parents live in Wilson, cousins, aunts and uncles, et al, in Oxford, Cary, Durham, Stokes … all over.
Ncscoots, why on earth would the Angels trade for Hudson? They’ve already got the best starting pitching in the AL.
That trade would never, ever happen. Under any circumstances.
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this
DOB, must have just missed you in South Florida, I was already gone by 89. But, oh man, when they still had minor league ball down in Miami? Go down for a game, have two Cuban coffees, and be awake for three days!
By David O'Brien
July 23, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this
yes, the stone crabs, in season, are to die for. and the side dishes just as good.
but be prepared to spend $50-60 per person to eat there, easy, if you have a drink and desert.
i haven’t typed in a couple days, and i’m making errors everywhere. meant to say before those places “became” overcrowded on South Beach, not “because.” not that anyone probably cares.
By ncscoots
July 23, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this
I was thinking more along the lines that Angels need offense, and getting a starter back is the only way to trade Hudson. Hey, I’m just trying to get my licks in on the most-absurd-trade-proposed-on-the-blog contest. I’m way behind in THAT soiree!
By tourist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this
flash big pants have arrived! big pants have arrived! the game is on. bob, you must never order sauce by mail! that is what happened to gene talmadge. try the sauce at bbq-1 in marietta. as to travel, journalist can’t leave just yet but the trip is upcoming. journalist will be just north of cape canaveral (baby seal is interviewing with nasa). journalist is familiar with several of the restaurants mentioned on the blog and has dined at Joes’s Stone Crab and at Captain Anderson’s. the only carolina seafood journalist has had was on hilton head island. several pretty good spots there. now, lady … journalist must ask if you favor what is known as low country boil or do you prefer seafood prepared another way? this will affect jimmy smith’s opinion of your seafood sensibilities. jimmy smith’s friends have a beach house in n. carolina but jimmy smith hasn’t been there yet to explore the seafood establishments. maybe journalist should ask bobby dews. journalist would enjoy a grouper sandwich right now. seafood platter? umm ..
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this
Good folks all, David! Some of my Irish Carney ancestors came from Pitt Co, but I don’t know if any of them are still there. Had some Branch kin who hailed from the Rocky Mount area way back. Since we both have Irish in our backgrounds and from the coastal plains, it wouldn’t be a long stretch of the imagination to find common ancestors somewhere along the way.
Cousin Jimmy also has NC roots, I believe.
BBQ. Ever had any from around the Kinston area? Love eastern NC BBQ!
Ah! Game time!!! :-))
By MEB
July 23, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
Does any one else think Horacio will have pitch a shutout tonight to keep us in the game? I hate that sinking feeling but good news for the Braves my instinct is usually wrong.
By Matt
July 23, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this
CJones and AJones aren’t playing, damn. This ought to be interesting. Anybody want to bet on how many times Langers strikes out?
By Matt
July 23, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this
Betemit is still raking. Marcus took the first pitch but the ESPN idiots said “why would he swing at the first pitch he seen in a week?” Can they really be that stupid? Thats a stupid question though, huh
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this
yes, cousin … isle of wight, 1600’s. then nash county, nc. then georgia. what kind of hyphenated-american does that make jimmy smith?
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
Tar Heel, Jimmy.
By David
July 23, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this
WOW … what a play by Wilson and LaRoache!
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this
is that clete boyer at third base? whoa! de-fense!
jimmy smith enjoys n.carolina barbecue. it is quite good. now, journalist must try n.c. seafood restaurants. journalist frequently travels to asheville but has not been to the coast. big state like big pants. takes awhile to cover.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this
bobbleheads - that’s right, bobbleheads. will the team have a bobblehead promotion for wicky and paronto? how much would such bobbleheads weigh? with no neck, how would they pivot? these are questions that must be pondered. now, espn … arrrgh!
By Matt
July 23, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this
double play please
By Marcus Williams
July 23, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this
Journalist Jimmy Smith…What documentaries do you recommend?
By chris
July 23, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this
why do the espn guys keep calling betemit “baytomeet”… its getting really annoying!
By Matt
July 23, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this
pedro’s gay and will fall off as will glavine and the mets will take a huge hit.
Where in the hell is david bell coming from, geez. good thing burrell is slower than laroche.
By Matt
July 23, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this
because in order to work for espn, you have to be an iliterate retard. anybody can watch and just point out stupid mistakes all game. i hate when they’re on espn. like when horam struck out rowand, they said that was a bad pitch. but if rnady johnson or curt schilling threw that pitch, oh man what a great pitch. he knew exactly what he was doing. johnson is great.
By JJMB
July 23, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this
They claim to have asked Wilson how to pronouce his last name (unlike Atlanta media), and that’s how he says it. ben-ne-meet’ Accent on the last syllable.
Now, how does he say his first name? We-eel’-sun?
By alex
July 23, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this
HEY EVERYBODY NEED A WEBSITE TO BUY SOME TICKETS FOR A GAME IN AUGUST….ANY SITES YOU RECOMMEND??? THANKS
By Matt
July 23, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this
put in Orr.
By JJMB
July 23, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this
Giles hasn’t missed a beat….Harumpfff!
By chris
July 23, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this
ramirez is getting hit hard tonight
By MEB
July 23, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this
The Atlanta Braves web-site is a great place to start. Braves tickets are handled by Ticketmaster. You can also try E-Bay and there are lots of ticket outlets like Stub-Hub so Google Braves tickets to find them.
By alex
July 23, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this
THANKS
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this
too early for “p’ players. save them for when we need a run. oh, we need a run now? jimmy smith is a print journalist and has no expertise for documentaries. journalist favors the delightful article on toes done by dob just a few weeks ago. now, more on seafood. the best places are holes-in-the-wall - jimmy smith is convinced. paper place mats are always a good sign. none of those at joe’s - but the food was good. something on the water with a boat tied there is a good sign.
By David
July 23, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this
Renteria … the Braves most MVP this year!
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this
To all those guys who asked over Chipper’s Hot streak (which I do believe has been very impressive, BTW), “wher is all the Chipper Bashers at now?”
My answer is……I’m right here! Same spot I was all along!
I never ever said Chipper is “washed” up and he can’t hit. That is obviously not true.
My complaint with Chipper is that due to his salary, our “depth” is limited. Thank Gog we’ve got Betemit. If the Braves are even thinking about trading him, I hope they have another 3rd baseman in mind. Because Chipper’s problem isn’t lack of talent, knowledge or ability. If you can’t stay on the field, it doesn’t matter how talented you are. You can’t help the team from the DL. Time to move on people.
I maid the comparison between Chipper and the NBA’s Grant Hill. Now that is not all together fair to Chipper, because he has been healthier for more seasons than Hill has, but how many years did the Orlando Magic go into the season saying to themselves “If we just get some players to surround Grant Hill with we’re gonna do OK.”
I’m assuming at some point they stopped relying on his availibility.
The Braves should do the same with Chipper. Yeah he plays hard, the way the game should be played. But here we sit in the middle of one of his patented tears he goes on every year. In the midst of his streak I was thinking to myself, “now they can trade Betemit for pitching, because Chipper is back”. Now I don’t know if we should make that trade with San Diego, even if they want to. Who we gonna put at 3rd when Chipper’s out? Orr…..PULEEEZ!
I’m not ripping Chipper, like I was early in the season. He’s shown me that he can still hit. I just think for his sake, and the Braves, it’s time to part ways. Trade him to the AL so he can DH. And we can stop counting on him to be there for more than 110 games a year.
Call me crazy, and any other name you wouldn’t call your mom, but this isn’t “off the cuff”, I’ve thought it through. I’d hate to see him go, from a fan of Chipper Jones standpoint. But as an even BIGGER fan of the Atlanta Braves, I want what’s best for the long term future of the Braves. Anybody remember that 1996 World Series, when our best hitter at that time (Justice) couldn’t stay in the lineup for a whole season with nagging injuries? How come we didn’t keep him around. He won us a World Series title with one swing of his bat!
Just a thought.
By Lew
July 23, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this
The Hurricane on St.Pete Beach. Best grouper sandwich in the world. The boat is across the street.
By Lew
July 23, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
I blame all the injuries this year on the stupid WBC. This was the most bizarre spring traing I ever saw. I don’t think anyone got the conditioning and stretching like they usually do. All over baseball there have been a lot of really dumb muscle pull injuries-many more than I’ve ever seen. I also attribute Francoeur’s slow start to it, too.
By Justin
July 23, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this
i hate langerhans
By David
July 23, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this
Another good play by WB!!!
By Glass Half Full
July 23, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this
I still think our best shot at Linebrink is a 3 way deal involving another team with a power-hitting 3rd baseman. Is Aramis Ramirez available? Here’s the ideal scenario: Ramirez to the Padres, Linebrink to the Braves, Giles to the Cubs.
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this
On a side note:
HoRam has looked pretty good tonight. That’s a step in the right direction.
Anybody eles tired of the “rare comodity” MLB commercial with Chipper. IMO a “rare commodity” would be him staying on the field for more than 4 weeks at a time.
Where’s the HGH when you need it? LOL
That last part was just a joke people. SIMMA DON NA!
PS….sorry for all of the horrible spelling in my last post. It’s been a long day.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 23, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
I think that is a good deal, Glass
By Glass Half Full
July 23, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
Yeah, I can armchair GM with the best of them.
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this
I agree with you guys, if we could get Linebrink without giving up Betemit. Then we could have patience with chipper’s injury. Because in worst case scenario, Betemit could play 3rd and bring up a middle infielder (Pena, Prado etc…) to play second, if Chipper goes (or stays down).
But I just have this feeling, Betemit’s on his way out. I’m not sure how Betemit would do, if he was given a job in Spring Training and 162 games to prove what he can do. But I do know, that he is one helluva utility player. That’s a “rare commodity” IMO! LOL
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this
I said it earlier, and I’ll say it again.
Man does HoRam look good tonight. He’s got a nice pace to him tonight.
That’s hard for me to say BTW, I’ve been a Horacio basher in the past. (Again, not his talent, his abiltiy to stay healthy), Why don’t we just make trades for Mark Prior and Kerry Wood while we’re at it? They too are great players aren’t they?
I assume you get my point. If I were Tim Hudson, I’d be rooting against HoRam. Because as long as the whole rotation struggles, he won’t stand out. But when Ramirez, James, and Cormier have better outings than he does, it just makes him look severely overpaid.
Listen, I don’t have a problem with players making money, and lot’s of it. I do however have a problem with people who get their “payday” and mysteriously their abilities and level of play fade away faster than the money does.
They should be ashamed.
By Calvin
July 23, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
good stuff from Betemit.
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this
Hmmm … 1-1 game after six. How many of THESE have we won this year?
I think I liked Giles a lot better when he was hurt.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this
dob knows his baseball … but he underestimates this bait-a-meat guy. wow! he is playing some defense tonight! imagine if he stayed at one position for a few days what could happen. jimmy smith is thinking of going fishing right now and bait-a-meat sounds like something journalist would use top catch a nile perch. such plays are good for the oblique healing process.
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this
Shocker………Francoeur tried to pull the 1st pitch. An off spead pitch away, mind you.
Just once I’d like to see him go up and try and drive the 1st pitch the other way. He good enough even with how “lousy” his approach is. If he ever decides to start taking the ball the other way. The word SUPERSTAR wouldn’t even be a big enough word to describe him. He’d be more popluar overall than Pujols. IMO
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
good point murphyrules….but at least we might get to see Wickman tonight. :)
By nathan
July 23, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
I love Thorman’s bat, but he sure aint a burner is he? LOL
By Glass Half Full
July 23, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this
Tonight’s game is dedicated to all those who suggested that the Braves should trade Andruw and Chipper.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
hey, joe morgan … analyze this. “p” player orr is now at bat.
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this
Pete Orr? Is Diaz in the doghouse? Don’t remember him playing the past two weeks.
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this
Abreu, Burrell, Howard: I smell single, long fly out, two-run homer.
By Calvin
July 23, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this
Braves caught a break. Abreu was safe at second.
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this
The key to enjoying an ESPN broadcast is use of the Mute button.
Listening to…..Jon Miller…is…..more than….I can…..take…..
and his side-kick, Worshipper-Of-Bonds, beats anything I’ve ever heard (for bias, superiority, egotism).
The Mute botton is a wonderful invention!
By David
July 23, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this
What defense tonight!!! Boy, do we miss AJ and CJ bats …
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this
All right. I’m done being Mr. Negative. C’mon Braves, let’s get a run and see what Wickman can do!!!!!
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this
Glass Half Full.
I get your point. The offense is “weak” without those two bats in the middle. But in all fairness, I would hope JS would get somthing a little better than sombody of Langerhans’ ability to replace AJ if he traded him.
Nobody ever said, trade Andruw and Chipper because we have “better” replacements ready to play in the system or on the roster. They said trade them because those two players take up about a 3rd of the payroll, and with the money saved by trading those two you could get some bats and most definitely some more arms if we moved one or both of them.
Not saying do it. But the comparison would be similar to the scenario of me saying “we should trade Smoltz” and then putting Cormier in the rotation to replace him. I’m quite certain, if we traded the likes of Smoltz, they’d get a pretty good pitcher in return. Get my point?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:16 PM | Link to this
“p” players can surprise you. say a “p’ player gets on base - there’s a surprise. maybe pratt will pinch hit soon and win the game. is diaz a defensive replacement? go figure. mcbride did fine. now, will the braves score a run?
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this
Carolina Lady. have you ever listend to Joe Simpson do a Braves game?
It doesn’t get much worse, and the last time I checked, at least Joe Morgan was in the HOF. So if I’m gonna listen to somebody ramble, I’d rather listen to the HOFer.
Just my opinion.
Why is Giles still on the roster?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this
looks like giles worked on that windmill swing while he was out. almost has it perfected! glad he couldn’t make contact - now he’s on base. renteria or bait-a-meat … who will put the braves ahead?
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this
Bunting with Renteria is fine with Chipper and Andruw in the lineup.
But C’mon Bobby, with them out of the lineup let the 2nd best hitter in the lineup (after McCann) SWING THE DAMN BAT!!!!!!!
I haven’t said this in a while……
DONKEY IN THE DUGOUT!
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this
What a genius. Give Bobby all the credit there! He took the bunt off with two strikes.
Man is he a moron! Was he really playing for one run with this bullpen????
Thank God Renteria can’t bunt to save his A$$.
By Calvin
July 23, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this
Way to go Edgar.
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this
How can you rip on Joe Simpson? One of the funniest announcers in baseball. He and Skip. Now, Pete and Don, I can do without.
Way to go Edgar!! Now let’s get him in, too!
By Stanford
July 23, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this
Top of the 9th, tie game, Betemit and McCann on deck? Bunting made all the sense in the world until 2 strikes! Course I’m glad it worked out like it did, but it was the only play, imo.
Nathan, enjoy your posts… don’t always agree, but you make great points. I like Simpson, btw… he’s my favorite of the Braves’ quartet.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this
now, we will learn much about wicky. it is good he has pants and can play tonight.
they want to pitch to francoeur. will he win it?
By Calvin
July 23, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this
Frenchy!!!!!!
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this
FRENCHY!!!!!!!!!!!!
By MEB
July 23, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this
DONKEY… I think nought. I think Rentaria gives him more options than your average ballplayer. Wow, Frenchy just made it 5-1.
News Flash… Wickman has pants. What a relief.
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this
Stanford. Maybe it’s just me, but I put a lot of stock in HOF players opinions. That’s why I like Sutton. The only thing I like about Simpson is that he calls it like he sees it. He doesn’t sugar coat anything. Unfortunately for the rest of us, Simpson apparently hasn’t said anything to Sutton about his hair. Somebody should! I actually like Chip Caray too. He seems to have a pasion for the “team” he is covering.
So much for seeing Wickman in a save situation! LOL Thanks Francoeur! LOL
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this
let’s see sosa for a few batters then we can see if wicky can save one.
By Stanford
July 23, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this
Nathan, Walt Bellamy’s in the basketball HOF, but I don’t know that I’d want to listen to him call a game! Sutton is very knowledgeable, but just talks too much.
Anyway, big win (I hope) and HUGE effort by Ramirez.
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this
I’m not that desperate to see a save situation. Jimmy.
Actually, this situation will probably say more about how he goes about his business than a tight game.
Not overpowering stuff, but he seems to locate well. Amazing what consistantly throwing strikes will do. Kinda reminds me of a starter we had a couple of years ago, but his name has slipped me. :)
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this
oh, the humanity! wicky strikes out the first batter. the second batter hits a chopper to bait-a-meater. do we finally have a closer?
By Chop Chop
July 23, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this
When I see all these comments about “pants”, I’m reminded of the British phrase. “Pants” basically means “underpants” in England. For some reason or another, when someone plays/performs poorly at something, that person is referred to as being “pants”. Conversely, if someone does something very well, he is considered “pantsless”.
I suppose this means we want Wickman to be “pantsless” as a Brave. On second thought, no.
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this
Good point Stanford…..but who cares about the NBA. Just kidding to all the NBA fans out there.
Joe Morgan was one of my favorite players when I was growing up. Even though he was at the end of his career.
Anybody remember that crew on NBC that called the 1995 World Series? Joe Morgan, Bob Costas and Ueker. I love Ueker, I actually listen to Brewers games on my computer with the MLB package when I’m at work. But talk about 3 guys that “talk” a lot! Man Alive.
Nice Job Wickman. I think I might learn to like him. He’s kind of like Kolb, except he doesn’t SUCK. Now that last comment was funny.
By rip
July 23, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this
GREAT JOB WICKMAN AND TEAM>NOW JS TWO MORE DEALS PLEASE BEFORE DEADLINE>THANKS MAN>
By Calvin
July 23, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this
Good win for the Braves. Good pitching although, HoRam was in trouble most of the night. Good stuff.
By MurphyRules
July 23, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this
Was that the first 1-2-3 inning by a Braves reliever all season?
I love Wickman already.
By David
July 23, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this
A 1-2-3 9th inning … the future is bright!!!
By rob
July 23, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
He’s a Giant Stud! This is going to be a fun 2 months.
BTW Frenchy RULES!
By nathan
July 23, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this
I agree with you guys. The guy looks like he knows how to “pitch”.
Now if only JS could fix the 7th and 8th innings………..
Goodnight All.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 23, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this
chop, the man must wear pants. ill-fitting pants, but pants just the same. imagine a closer with no pants. we have had closers with no out-pitch but until now, never a closer with no pants. it is good that the tent and awning people were able to put together a pair of pants for big wicky tonight. he pitched his pants off.
By MEB
July 23, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this
jimmy… it looks like the Braves may have a closer. How nice to watch a reliever come in and throw strikes. Give that man a Big & Tall man contract to endorse pants.
By Lew
July 23, 2006 10:48 PM | Link to this
Now that’s how we need to play the rest of the season. Great game even without Chipper, Andruw, Hannibal or the elephants.
By supergrass
July 23, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this
i fully agree with carolina lady - the broadcasters suck on espn…. morgan finds a way to incorporate kissing bonds butt in all conversations and miller cant seem to pronounce anyones name correctly. i think Skip,Pete and joe are awesome baseball broadcasters…. the weak link in the bunch at tbs is chip -
By Dez
July 23, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this
Based on a one game performance, Wickman looks like the closer we’ve needed for so, so long. Great Job !!
Giles continues to struggle. I’d like to think his days as a Brave are numbered. We’ll wait and see if JS cuts him loose. Hustle and grit go only so far, and Gile’s is simply not cutting the mustard this season. Betemit could take over second base easily. Wilson is much improved this year, and he’s definitely hitting a ton better than Giles.
By Lew
July 23, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this
Yeah, but Chip is a nice guy and he did go to UGA.
By Jman
July 23, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this
Is Wickman a Big Ogre or what!!
By wellnyc
July 23, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this
good to see a 3 straight out inning. makes me want to eat wilbur’s bbq in goldsboro nc. fortunately mom bring some to brooklyn every time she visits.
By flbravesgirl
July 23, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this
Now that was more like it! A good first impression of Wickman. Nice to not have our closer trying to give us all gray hair. Some excellent defense tonight too.
journalist jimmy, it’s a shame you’re not coming to the Gulf Coast because the best seafood I know is at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar (there are actually 3 locations here). Napkins consist of a roll of paper towels on a wire hanger over every table; is that relaxed enough for you? :-)
By jed
July 23, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this
thanks for the commitment to the blogs and the solid perspective. i even appreciate a lot of the music talk, but, dude, i got serious doubts that too many braves fans are gonna be flooding the theaters for the new leonard cohen documentary! but yeah yall…d.o’b is right …leonard cohen’s absolutely great. perhaps b/c of your blog, joe billy tolliver down in pike county will be turned on to ‘famous blue raincoat’.
By Carolina Lady
July 23, 2006 11:39 PM | Link to this
Hey, wellnyc! Goldsboro is a great area! And has that wonderful eastern NC BBQ that we all love! Your mama is a smart and thoughtful lady; give her a big hug from us! (Seymour Johnson?)
Cousin Jimmy, I just LOL: ‘tent and awning people’! I don’t care if Wickman is a bit portly as long as he pitches well!
I guess I shouldn’t have picked on Jon Miller earlier, but … his….. hesitant speech …. and up-pitch on ….. the …… ending word …….. just ….. drives me …… up a tree! (Makes me want to tell him “Put together more than 3 words at a time, for Pete’s sake!”)
Last cup of coffee out of the pot here. That reminds me - I need to change the oil in that tractor tomorrow…..
Thank Goodness for the win!!!
By Bryan
July 23, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this
Dave, computer crashed (and is being sent back to apple) so that CD is late.
NEVER EVER forget how cool the dude is!
By supa
July 23, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this
That was fun to watch. The game had an October feel to it tonight. Good pitching, good defense, clutch hitting, and lots of strategy.
I thought the Francoeur throw to get Abreu at 2nd was the key play. It settled down McBride and gave us a chance in the 9th.
Mr. Wickman, welcome to Atlanta.
By Jax son-in-law
July 23, 2006 11:55 PM | Link to this
Bob, journalist, is the bbq restaraunt in Jacksonville Bono’s? Great bar-b-que, and great sauce.
By Bob, journalist
July 24, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this
We have to win tomorrow as well … Mama and I both slept through this one. A great Kennan Winn … banannahs, icecreame and coffee in cellabration!
By Bob, journalist
July 24, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this
Jax son-in-law, yes, yes, yes … I think you’ve got it! thanks!!
By David O'Brien
July 24, 2006 12:50 AM | Link to this
The Dude abides, Bryan. The Dude abides.
Jed, never underestimate the level of cultural sophistication on this blog. The good folks will surprise you. Besides, we run the gamut here, from low-brow to high-brow (well, Cohen being about as high-brow as we get, music-wise, I’d imagine).
But it doesn’t matter. I mean, we let a Night Ranger fan have his say here, for god’s sake.
By the way, movie ends with Cohen signing Tower of Song with a little backing band you might have heard of _ U2.
Braves are going to be no worse than 6-3 on this trip, by the way. After a 7-3 homestand. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Carolina Lady, my relatives came from Ireland and Scotland and owned much land in Pitt County. My namesake, David Nobles, had one of the largest tobacco farms in Pitt County. I think he still does, but I’d be lying if I said I was sure of it.
Anyway, I’d imagine we do have some people in common 6-7 generations back. Pretty small world, eh?
By David O'Brien
July 24, 2006 12:55 AM | Link to this
I just read my post and it sounded like I was implying my family was wealthy or some such nonsense. Not at all. I only wish.
Maybe waaay back, but for a long time now, we’re just middle-class working people. I want to make sure that wasn’t misrepresented.
I’ve got nothing. Just my house, my motorcyle, my car and my old-a$# cat, Coltrane. My ex even took our old-a%$ dog, Larry.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 01:05 AM | Link to this
I refuse to apologize for Night Ranger.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 01:07 AM | Link to this
DOB-It’s like the Georgia Satellites, “Dan Takes Five” “I took the car, my pride and three pair of jeans”.
By Chop Chop
July 24, 2006 01:52 AM | Link to this
jimmy, the Braves need Ray King (he, too, of ill-fitting pants) in order to evenly distribute the weight on the Braves’ team charter. Pants and toes are what separate the men from the boys.
By gotigers72
July 24, 2006 02:37 AM | Link to this
ncscoots - You were right about Myrtle Beach being better 30-40 years ago when it was kind of a sleepy little place with cottages and mom and pop motels rather than all of the high rises they have now. The Pavilion was also one of my favorite places. Did you know that it’s being torn down after this summer. Made me real sad when I heard that. I used to stand in front of those “crazy” mirrors on the bottom floor, and play against my dad in skeeball and have the best time ever. My dad’s dead now, so that makes those memories even sweeter. That place will probably be replaced by several high rises and will never be the same again.
The best seafood there is Sea Captain’s. Right on the ocean, so you have great ambience with great food. Charleston has more great seafood places than anywhere I’ve been. Hyman’s is my favorite.
Sorry I got off subject, but scoots post, and other posts about seafood brought back some fantastic memories.
By Head Coach
July 24, 2006 02:41 AM | Link to this
Wow , what a game Ramirez pitched ! and the defense was just steller. Hey Chip , Betemit’s making you look old at 3B but he still can’t rake like you can. I new Wickman was a closer , nobody told me he is a linebacker too , lol. The Braves offense can bang with the best of them and I know Giles sparked the ninth inning rally with a walk , however his two strikeout’s looking and ground out lead’s me to believe we still lack a productive leadoff hitter. Corey Patterson is having a decent season in Baltimore , he can run , play left field and he has about 1.4 million left on his contract. He is just the sort of trade material Schuerholz can deal for and like Wickman is a free agent at the end of this season , so he wouldnt be a contract or money issue in 2007. Langerhans or maybe a marginal minor leaguer for Patterson ? that 21 percent chance is about right DOB , they have a mountain to climb. However , the remaining schedule looks easy with 15 games against teams with a winning record and 50 against teams with a losing record and 37 are home games , 28 are on the road. Anything is possible they just need Davies , Thomson , Chipper and Andruw to get healthy , Huddy back in form and go get a leadoff guy. Go Braves !!!
By The Grinch
July 24, 2006 03:19 AM | Link to this
DOB, don’t even act like you’re not a poseur, you elitist SOB! :-) Is anyone still awake? I wonder why there aren’t any posts from Mets fans telling us how bad we screwed up? I’ll be up for a little…don’t make me tell a joke…
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 03:40 AM | Link to this
HeadCoach, What It Is??? I’m drunk coming from the bar, had to work all nite at da damn Home Depot…
How was the game you guys Did Miller and Joe Morgan Get on your nerves???
HOLLA BACK GUYS, Because I love to bash ESPN and Fox 4 dat matter, Go Braves!
OH yea D.O.B. Notorious B.I.G.’s 1st album “Ready to Die” Is a classice rap album as well, Not that C-RAP you hear today…
Thoughts….Oh yea does anyone here still collect Baseball cards, because being a broke college student, I have a bunch of old Chipper Jones Rookie cards that I’d be Glad to sell…
By The Grinch
July 24, 2006 03:58 AM | Link to this
Ok, then…Once upon a time there were three little pigs. One day, one walked into a bar. He went up to the bartender and said : “Five beers please.” The bartender oblidged, and the pig drank them down. He then asked, “Where’s the men’s room?” The bartender told him, and the pig waddled off. Later, another pig walked into the bar. The bartender said: “What’ll you have?” He asked the bartender: “How many beers did my brother have?” The bartender said “five.” The pig said: “I’ll have ten beers, please.” The bartender served him. When he had finished, the pig said “Where is the men’s room?” The bartender told him, and he waddled on off. A little later, another pig walked in. The bartender said, “What’ll you have?” The pig asked “What did my brother have?” The bartender said “10 beers.” The Pig said, “give me 15 then.” The bartender oblidged, and the pig drank them all. When he was done, he started eating peanuts out of the complimentary tray. The bartender asked: “Hey, don’t you want to know where the bathroom is?” The pig answered: “No, thank you. I’m the piggy who goes wee, wee, wee, all the way home.”
Thank you. I’ll be here all week. :-)
By The Grinch
July 24, 2006 04:04 AM | Link to this
That was in honnor of Journalist Jimmy Smith, who couldn’t possibly care less, I imagine. :-) ‘night, all…
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 04:32 AM | Link to this
Man GRINCH, U B Holdin It down Overnite Man, Nuff Respect 4 ya…
I guess I’m gonna be out, Tha Tomahawkin Has been partyin to Much Over the Weekend
I will catch You Guys Tomorrow…
BTW I will Be wearring MY BRAVES JERSEY in hopes of takin 2 of 3 from the phils 2morrow
, I bet D.O.B Has a Couple of them Braves Jerseys in His Closet, I bet He comes out in da playoffs doing Dat Chop over and over……
BTW D.O.B. Do You Ever KICK IT OUT ON BUCKHEAD WHEN THE BRAVES ARE IN TOWN?????
By Bryan
July 24, 2006 07:31 AM | Link to this
The Falcons should look into signing Paranto and Wickman for the D-line. I bet Abraham would love having those guys up front…
Did yall see that Kolb got a save last night - closing the game instead of the struggling Turnbow - on the same night Wickman makes his first appearance as a Brave? Why can’t we get away from this guy. JS just keep looking at 2nd Base and smile as edgar wins more games, don’t think about taking it in the rear from Mil-u-wa-ke last year.
By dadgum
July 24, 2006 08:00 AM | Link to this
Born in the ATL grew up in Charlotte and have a great love of seafood and BBQ. Everytime I see a Eat at Joe’s crab sign I cringe. Reminds me of how Skynyrd introduces “that Smell” before they play it-been there done that and ain’t never going back again. Give me the Low Country seafood anytime at the cheap joints. Going to be eating at Calabash next week. The Original.. well at least three places call themselves the original. In the cul-de-sac to the left is my favorite. As for BBQ I have favorites—Rendevous(Memphis), Salihs(Addison near Dallas), Lexington#1 (Lexington,NC), Smithfield(easten NC (numerous locations but not bad for a chain). Still want to go to Dreamland someday.
Hey Turner Field with a beer and dog ain’t bad either.
By paluka
July 24, 2006 09:12 AM | Link to this
With the way Betemit is playing I diubt the Braves can afford to trade him. Therefore maybe they should cahnge direction and look some place else for a reliever although I would love to have Linebrink. The Astros may be willing to give up Chad Qualls and they need a catcher and a shortstop for the future. How about Tony Pena or Brayan Pena for Qaulls? Also, it seems Colorado has soured on Ray King. Perhaps a Sosa for King deal can be worked out. I also read that the White Sox are interested in Soriano and Washington wants Brian Anderson which would leave a hole in center for them. Atlanta could inturn send Langerhans to Chicago for Podsednik and we finally have a lead off hitter.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this
We don’t need Ray King or his bulk. We have enough large players. If we had more starters go as long as Horacio did last night we’ll be fine. In the month of July, 9 times out of 17 games our starters didn’t even go 6 innings. Two more times they went just 6 innings. When your bullpen has to pitch three innings or more two out of every three nights, your disaster quotient goes way up. Let’s put the blame where it really belongs-on the starters. If they go 6, 7, or 8 innings each night, you’d be surprised how good the bullpen would look.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this
“I’ve got nothing. Just my house, my motorcyle, my car and my old-a$# cat, Coltrane. My ex even took our old-a%$ dog, Larry.” - dob
… and your own blog - and faithful readers - and you are a contender (always wanted to be a contend-uh) for the wurlitzer. cheer up, dob!
jimmy smith knew it! bob slept through another game. bob, you missed wicky. wicky is very big and does not invade the middle of the plate. it seems we may now have a closer. now, seafood … journalist thanks everyone for the recommendations of seafood and barbecue. journalist may tour the entire coastal area to sample all the recommended eateries. this is a natural for jimmy smith as baby seal requires fish at every meal.
now, changing oil on a tractor when you just got home from the hospital … this is frowned upon. a nobody will come do this for carolina lady as a favor to all.
lastly, pants …when jimmy smith was a cub scout and would go camping - there would always be a cub scout who would get “pantsed” by the scout leaders - meaning his pants would be put high in a tree or on a flag pole. such behavior would not pass muster in today’s pc society - but was a given way back when. then, the unlucky scout would have to retrieve his pants from the tree while other scouts laughed. this taught lessons to all. a merit badge could be earned by demonstrating ingenuity in retrieving one’s pants. let us hope that no one “pants” wicky. imagine those big pants flying from the flag pole at the ted. much bigger than all 14 division signs.
and what prankster would dare pants wicky? laroche? bobby dews? uh, chipper?
By Lew
July 24, 2006 09:49 AM | Link to this
Maybe Francouer, he can run faster.
By MEB
July 24, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this
Did anyone else catch the interview on XM Radio Home Plate with Jeff Torborg this morning? Very interesting guy with lots of baseball knowledge. Said he has become quite a fan of this team, especially the baby Braves, like McCann, Francoeur and Larouche. Lots of respect for the job Bobby Cox is doing with this years team. I remember at the start of the year I wasn’t too excited about his color analyst role but I’ve grown too enjoy him very much.
Also, did anyone else see Manny being Manny in the outfield for the Red Sox yesterday. Looked like one the slapstick routines from back in the 20’s or 30’s. Absolutely Hilarious!!!
By geauxbraves2000
July 24, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this
When was the last time the Braves (and their fans) had a stress free 9th inning? That was awesome. HR dominated, McB looked great, and the Wick, he is the man!
Geaux Braves!
By Carolina Lady
July 24, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this
‘Morning, Jimmy! You’re in good form this morning! LOL as always! I can’t tell you what a good and thoughtful person Aaron is; he’s already checked and serviced the mower and I didn’t even know it until I went to use it Saturday morning. He’s just that way. My cousin picked a winner!
I’m doing a little more as time goes by. It was that or go stark raving nuts! I just can’t sit and do nothing! (But I do have to recognize limitations now whether I want to or not! I have to admit that it was a wise decision to hire a CNA to come help my mother every day [just 4 hours but gets the bulk of her needs met], ‘cause I tire so easily these days and I don’t want her to have to live in a nursing home because of me.)
I do hope you and Baby Seal have a wonderful vacation and find only the very best seafood at every stop! :-)
DOB, I understood your post perfectly! I’ve got a sizable chunk of land that has been handed down from generation to generation, and it’s sometimes difficult to keep up with the steadily rising taxes on it! I ain’t no way rich!
I have the original deed where my 4g grandfather purchased the first 50 acres in 1802 which was passed to his 4 sons who each added to it, whose sons inherited and added to it, etc. Then, over time, it gradually evolved back to one owner who was my ancestor - and thus it eventually became my responsibility, and I will too pass it on to someone in the family. I regard my role as caretaker of it for this period of time. There has been a lot of pressure to sell parts of it since the “developers” have taken over the world. An adjoining parcel of land was recently purchased by them, clear-cut (!), and they are dividing it up into half acre lots selling for $300,000 each. Unreal. And all it’s done is drive the taxes up more….As Jimmy says: “Oh, the humanity!” All this to say, that I truly understood what you meant! :-)
It felt so good to see an actual closer pitching last night for the Braves!!! Big britches and all.
:-))
Y’all have a great day. Gotta go run an errand.
By Patrick
July 24, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
DOB,
ESPN radio this morning is reporting that we are trying to get Carlos Lee. For a couple prospects, one of them being Anthony Lerew. Have you heard about this one in the last day or so??? I remember you saying that the Braves tried to get him last month
By Adam
July 24, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this
Can anyone tell me why Langerhans is in the major leagues? He’s always good for at least two strikeouts a game.
By ck
July 24, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this
soriano Soriano Soriano…..
I think it is time to bring in the secret to the season for the Braves. Work a deal with Washington for Soriano and watch us go.
Whew what a dream I just had.
Go Braves
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 10:50 AM | Link to this
lew is right about the starters. if they go seven this team can win some games. journalist jimmy smith has a question, “when bobby calls for ken ray and ray warms up in the pen … if his pitches aren’t working does he still get the call? or does bobby dews report “it isn’t working tonight - try somebody else”? jimmy smith already knows the answer. when a reliever comes in and has no juice and the game gets away (smoltz, does this sound familiar?) after three batters … isn’t there a way to get a different pithcer out there no matter what the book says? bobby makes unusual decisions with his pen whether from lack of confidence or from desperation. the other night when he needed a ground ball out journalist thought he would call for paronto the sinkerball man. no, he left ray in and the game was lost. nobody really knows what is going to happen but everybody has an idea when the change needs to happen and bobby is still sitting in the dugout. maybe with a real closer we will see much better performance now from he entire bullpen. will hudson go five next start?
By krath
July 24, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this
It’s kind of like the perfect storm right now. Five teams are 5 games out of the wildcard.
It may not be the best time to wish for it with the injuries to the Jones boys, but starting tonight, if the Braves can go 5-2 over the next 7 games, it will go a long way toward positioning them for the wildcard run. If they can separate themselves from the rest of the pack at 5 out, the number of teams they have to pass literally cuts in half!
I’ll take a win tonight and take 2 of 3 from the Marlins and Mets.
Of course the above statements aren’t exactly rocket science lol. You win more games than anyone and you’ll get the WC. :)
Would be a great night for Hudson to “find himself.”
By Mets Stink
July 24, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this
Soriano would be much better than Carlos Lee, but i think the Braves would have a better chance of resigning Lee. With Chip and Andruw hurting, another bat might really help.
By The Grinch
July 24, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this
Morning, all! Only got a moment. Carolina Lady, I, too am house rich but account broke. Taxes are the bane of my existance. $300,000 per half-acre? Man, I wish I could be so tempted! And how did you manage to get a dead giraffe to change the oil in your tractor? Good game last night. I hope Wickman retires his pants as a Brave (though not before he gets another pair to wear)! DOB, just joking earlier this morning; good to have you back. Sounds like you got the makings of a good country song, there. Later, all!
By KC
July 24, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this
I don’t think we need to do anything with our lineup before the deadline. HOWEVER, I would like to make a couple of moves to help our bench.
Ryan Langerhanz is an excellent defensive outfielder. When he plays left, I sincerely believe he’s the best left-fielder in the game. The problem is, the guy can’t hit a lick.
I’m just not sure that Langerhanz or Pete Orr (especially Orr) are major league players. Maybe Langerhanz can hit just enough to justify keeping him around as a 4th or 5th outfielder when you take his defensive value into account. But I think Pete Orr is a AAAA player, not a big-leaguer.
I would like to see us deal for the Cubs Phil Nevin. He’s a shell of his former self, no longer a star-now just a part time player. But he can play 1B, 3B, or left field and still has a lot of power. He would give us someone who can play several positions, could give us some right-handed pop off the bench, and could start at 1B when we’re up against a tough lefty.
It would be nice to see the Braves swing a deal with the Cubs for Nevin and one of their relievers, Eyre or Howry!
By Lew
July 24, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this
Jimmy-Hope you enjoy your vacation. I would like to see Hudson go 7 or 8 for a change. The hell with 5 innings, it’s time for him to earn his keep and be the “Ace” that KC keeps telling us he is. ck-Please let’s not start up on the Soriano thing again. If you absolutely need to know why, I’ll go into it again, but please just settle for “It’s a really bad idea. Think about it some more. Realistically.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this
KC-I’m afraid you and I are going to disagree still again. Phil Nevin? Come on man, I KNOW you’ve got more sense than that. The guy is washed up. He is only hitting .230 with 67 K. That’s more K than hits. Not only that, but the guy makes $10.3 mil, which means we would owe him $5mil and we only have $4mil left. You want to pay that much for a fill in player. Come on, even Soriano would be better than that-at least he plays everyday and would cost the same. And HE’S a bad deal, too.
By JasonInMaine
July 24, 2006 11:32 AM | Link to this
Patrick,
What show mentioned that the Braves were looking at getting Lee? I am an ESPNRadio Insider and would like to download the specific show. Thanks!
Regards, Jason
By Glass Half Full
July 24, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this
We should all take Patrick seriously. He’s the guy that broke the Wickman news to us about 30 minutes before anyone else.
By Patrick
July 24, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this
I wouldn’t get too excited about this one. I think it’s more their speculation than anything. The only reason I posted it was because I remembered that DOB reported that we asked about Lee back in June.
By KC
July 24, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this
LEW: Do you think I’m an idiot? (Don’t anser that) LOL
Of course I don’t think the Braves should take on 3-4 million of payroll for a part-time player.
The Cubs are paying only 375k of Nevin’s remaing salary for the rest of the season. The Rangers are eating almost all of it.
Since joining the Cubs, Nevin has hit .252 with 8 homers, and 19 RBI in 107 at-bats. He has struck out 28 times in those 107 at-bats. If you project those numbers out to 550 at-bats, you will have the following:
.252, 40-HR, 95-RBI (140 strike-outs)
Yeah, the average isn’t great and he strikes out a lot. But again, the he can still be a run producer and can play 3 postions. It’s always nice to have a bomber on the bench.
By Snowball's Chance
July 24, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this
I will not bash Francour any more. I have watched him and tried to figure out who he reminded me of. I think I’ve got it. Is he Vlad Guerrero’s evil twin? Vlad never met a pitch he didn’t like at and he has done pretty well for himself.
By Mets Stink
July 24, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this
A Carlos Lee trade still doesn’t solve the leadoff hitter problem.
By KC
July 24, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this
Mets Stink:
I don’t think we have a leadoff hitter problem.
We don’t have a prototypical leadoff guy, but I don’t think that’s much of an issue. With all the pop we have up and down this lineup, all we need is for someone who can get their— to first base. Sure, it would nice to have a base-stealer at the top of the lineup, but I don’t’ think it’s a problem that we don’t.
Giles was going great before hurting his thumb. Maybe he can get going again here fairly quickly.
Our biggest problem in this lineup is not the lack of a true leadoff hitter… it’s simply keeping everybody healthy.
By Glass Half Full
July 24, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this
Betemit was effective in the lead off spot.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this
KC-No I don’t think your an idiot. Insane? Well……. I don’t think we need a right handed hitter enough to spend ANY amount of money on Nevin. As far as Derrick Lee goes-I wouldn’t mind having him on the team, but he’s just coming off the DL with a serious injury and makes $9+ mil per year for 5 more years. Do you really see A. The Braves paying that much B. The Cubs being willing to let him go? I’m not so sure. I think this is just more idle speculation.
By journalist PENN
July 24, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this
journalist jimmysmith
I live in S. Florida and must agree with DOB, seafood has gone down dramatically from what it used to be. I believe Joe’s Stone Crabs is closed this time of the year.
The best are truly on the west coast but there are a few that still hang on to the old time cooking of fresh seafood and one of them is THE CATFISH HOUSE* in Hobe Sound. Doug and Loretta own it with Doug bartending and Loretta doing the cooking. Doug’s variety platter at $18.95 is to kill for and their house salad and cheese grits are first class as are their hushpuppies. They serve shrimp, frog legs, gator tail and catfish on the variety platter and I guarantee you can’t finish it in one sitting.
We are about 15 miles north of them but manage to get down at least once a month. The place looks like a dump but you see a lot of Lexuses, BMW’s, Mercedes and Caddies outside all the time. I’ve also spotted an occasional Rolls Royce although there is none of that celebrity crap around the place. Folks come there for good food. Loretta’s mom is the lady who sees who gets the next table and as long as I’ve been going there I still have to wait my turn. I like that.
Loretta learned how to cook when she worked for Catfish Dewey’s in Ft. Lauderdale. Don’t be turned off by the name as they have a full menu and a very good one. It’s on the north side of FT. Lauderdale in the Oakland Park area. You won’t be disappointed as Dewey’s is definitely a throwback to the good old days. You can check them out at this link. http://www.catfishdeweys.com
I also agree with the Carolinas offering some of the best seafood anywhere. I used to frequent the roasted oyster house in Foley Beach although I think a hurricane got it. Maybe they replaced it. Does anyone know?
I also know of a half dozen good seafood places in the Keys and “Ted Peters” in the St. Pete area is good if you like smoked fish.
As for Barbecue in Jacksonville there are Bono’s, Fat Boys and Sonny’s. All are good but I prefer the old Sonny’s in Stuart, FL. I don’t care for Bono’s.
Happy eating.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this
In the St. Pete area, there are two Leverock’s and The Hurricane on St. Pete Beach-all are excellent. If you like Spanish food, Pepin”s is also great.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 12:05 PM | Link to this
grinch has stolen some of jimmy smith’s thunder. journalist has been working all morning on a country song for dob. something like, “bird on my head” for those old enough to remember. “the cat and me, sitting under a tree … ” now, grinch … you pose a good question about aaron. still, this is likely mistaken identity. “a” nobody must be aaron nobody and he remains alive with a filter wrench. aaron giraffe would be a mess by now. plus, carolina lady’s cousin would not marry a giraffe. still, good observation. this blog is full of good observations.
By Mets Stink
July 24, 2006 12:07 PM | Link to this
We can make the playoffs without a true leadoff hitter. Having a guy that can change the game when he’s on base would go a long way to help us actually advance. Remember how good Podsednik did last year in the playoffs. If a guy like that is on base, the whole game changes. We need that kind of guy to put pressure on the other team. I don’t want to just make the playoffs again. Let’s try to make noise. Our big hitters ususally fall asleep in the playoffs.
By KC
July 24, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this
LEW: Come on man… just admit when you’re wrong! :o)
300k is NOT too much money for Nevin.
Even if he is a .250 hitter… He’s still a 35-HR / 95-RBI kind of guy. Nice to have some one like that on your bench. Especially when he can play 3 positions and we happen to have a need for some right-handed pop off the bench.
By Head Coach
July 24, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this
Carlos Lee , Alfonso Soriano ? We dont need another slugger. Soriano would be way too expensive , the Nationals would want prospects( as in plural , more than one). Philadelphia LHP Rheal Cormier at 2.5 million with a club option for 2007 and Pittsburgh LHP Damaso Marte 2.25 million with club options for 2007 and 2008 are bargain basement veteran lefty’s. Florida’s RHP Joe Borowski is available , but we already have a closer. Corey Patterson looks like the most attractive and available option for a leadoff hitter. He is hitting .283 with 10 Homers 37 RBI and 32 stolen bases for Baltimore. He is a Georgia boy from Kennesaw , born in Atlanta and played high school baseball in Kennesaw. His contract is up in 2006 with an affordable 1.4 million left on his contract. It looks like Barry Zito might be traded and I wonder who is gonna pony up the prospects for him ?
By Mets Stink
July 24, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this
Has Patterson hit leadoff this year. I know he didn’t when they played the Braves. Patterson has had a good year, but was terrible as the Cubs leadoff hitter. He might have the Marcus Giles syndrome.
By Larry
July 24, 2006 12:28 PM | Link to this
Larry the old-a$$ dog here with a question:
Who the hell names a dog Larry? Coltrane is such a cool name. I have carried this burden long enough.
By Voice Of Reason
July 24, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this
I have just returned from 9 days in Daytona Beach where I sustained a toe injury on the 1st day. It severely affected the quality of my play. (BTW - I don’t recommend skim-boarding for anyone over 40.) It really sux that the Braves are no longer on TBS very much. I miss the quality of the broadcasts here, but I just miss any broadcast there. So little coverage… I did find out about the Wickman trade, at least…
By KC
July 24, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this
Head Coach: Yeah, Patterson has never responded well to the leadoff position at all. Baltimore has finally been able to unlock some of this kid’s potential by move him down in the lineup (I think he’s batting 6th or 7th), and taking the pressure off of him to be the leadoff guy everyone wanted and always invisioned him being.
Besides, I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but left-field is taken right now. Thorman is going to be a 30+ homer-a-year guy in this lineup for a long time.
The only way to get a leadoff hitter in left-field would be to trade Laroche and more Thorman to 1B. I like Laroche, but wouldn’t be against dealing him if we could find the right leadoff guy for the outfield.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this
KC-I’m not wrong. Nevin hasn’t been a 35HR guy for some time. If he were he would still be in Taxas or San Diego. Why don’t we just run right out and get Vinnie Castilla. He hit 35 HR at one time and he would be even cheaper. Get real Dude. Neither one is what we need. Go out and get a starting pitcher who can go more than 5 innings. That’s really what we need. Not someone else’s rejects. We don’t need Nevin, Vinnie, Juan Pierre or Cory Patterson. I mean, Good God, Patterson couldn’t even hit at Wrigley. Who in their right mind thinks any of these players will do a damn thing. Can you say Todd Hollandsworth, neighbor?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this
raisins, now you know about the debilitating toe. a toe injury is not to be trifled with. were you still able to eat seafood? favorite place for seafood? wicky looks to be the real deal. we shall see.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this
For everyone out there advocating all of these moves to get leadoff hitters or big bats in the lineup at outrageous prices. Stop already. The Braves are 3rd in the NL in batting average, just .004 behind the co-leaders. We are second in runs scored, just 7 behind the Mets. We are tied for 2nd in HR. Come on. We don’t need any more offense. We need pitching. We need starters who can go more than five innings and relievers who don’t give up 3 runs every time they go out there. We have approximately $4 million left to spend this season, according to JS. Why do you want to spend it on hitters we don’t need? Yes, Soriano would give us more offense and spped. He would also cost more money for the balance of the season than we have. He will be a free agent next year commanding at LEAST Furcal money. We will never re-sign him and we can’t afford him now. Maybe Anthony Lerew straight up for Howry MIGHT be worthwhile.
By KC
July 24, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this
LEW: You’re capable of making a much better argument than that. You’re trying to make your point by comparing Nevin to Vinni Castilla???
The difference Lew, and it’s a big one, is that Nevin is still capable of hitting 35-40 homers in a season. Hell, Dale Murphy used to hit 35-40 home runs too. Why don’t you compare getting Nevin to signing Murphy for the remainder of the season? “Used to” and “still can” are pretty different things my friend.
I’m not arguing that the fact that he’s a shell of his former self. I think I said that right up front. But Nevin can still smack the ball. The only reason he’s a part-time player now is because of his low average and high strike-out totals. That doesn’t mean he can’t help you as a part-time player or a pinch-hitter. He’s not the guy you want to call on with a runner on 2nd or 3rd base in a 1-run game… but if you’re down 3 with 2 or 3 guys on, it’s nice to have a guy like that. And once again… he can play 3 positions.
Also he’s probably a better offensive option against most lefties than LaRoche is.
And since when is .250 with 8-HR and 19-RBI in 107 at-bats, bad production for a low-cost guy off the bench???
By Head Coach
July 24, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this
Patterson had a couple of good seasons in 2003 and 2004 , he stunk in 2005. So, yea he did hit at Wrigley and yes , Atlanta does need a leadoff hitter. They have needed one since spring training. Furcal , Grissom , Sanders and Nixon ? its that element of speed and base running ability that has been missing all season. The guy who can get on base consistently and get into scoring position all by himself has been a part of all fourteen previous division winning seasons and its been A.W.O.L. all of 2006.
By Mets Stink
July 24, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this
There’s really no need for a power hitting bench player. If the braves are going to trade a prospect, then trade for a guy who will play every day or help the pitching staff.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this
I’m not saying we should get Vinnie, I’m saying that getting Nevin is damn near as useless a move. The guy couldn’t even hit in Texas. Why spend money( which is in short supply) on someone we really don’t need. WE NEED PITCHING. Until we remedy the fact that this month our starters went six innings or less 11 out of 17 games, thereby making the relievers work way too much, we won’t stand a chance. Why do you insist on making superfluous moves? Go to the source of our problems and fix them. We have proved time and again that “IT”S THE PITCHING, STUPID” (and I don’t mean you are stupid). Let’s make moves that fix bona fide problems. We have all the offense we need. We have a great bench. If we don’t lead the NL in pinch hitting, we did for most of the season. Betemit is super sub. Langerhans, by your own admission, is the best defensive left fielder in the league. Yes, a right handed batter coming off the bench would be nice. Our production at first and left field obviously isn’t holding back our offense. Lack of a leadoff hitter hasn’t slowed our offensive production. We are in our current position because of the pitching-that’s the area that needs work. Is this a good enough argument?
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this
LEW: I agree with you that our offense is fine (I wouldn’t consider the Nevin thing a major move… just a little tweaking of the bench). BTW, I envision Nevin replacing Pete Orr. Surely, you’re not going to tell me that you’d rather see Orr in a game than Nevin???
Anyway, back to what we both agree on. The lineup is just fine. We don’t NEED a leadoff hitter right now. Sure it would be nice, but Atlanta is now the best offensive team in the league. Statistically, we’re still the 2nd best offensive team, but I’m not talking about season-to-date stats, I’m talking the current reality. The month of June brought all of our season-to-date stats down.
The Braves are more than fine offensively. Another arm would help, and I’m sure that will be JS’s focus between now and the end of the month.
But even if we don’t get another arm, I think we have everything we need to catch the Reds for the Wild Card.
By Lew
July 24, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this
Head Coach-Patterson has a career .256 avg., including his .283 at Baltimore this year. A .256 career at Wrigley? Come on, you are going to have to come up with more than that to convince me of his value.
By Sammy Kershaw
July 24, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this
KC Havent you had enough of .245 batting averages? We finnally got rid of those for the most part. please dont curse us by wishing another one in the lineup
By Lew
July 24, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this
Here’s an idea that won’t cost us anything. Didn’t Matt Diaz take grounders at first this spring? If we need a right handed hitting first baseman, why not try him. It can’t be any worse a move than the Brian Jordan fiasco. At least we know Diaz can hit and he can run, too.
By Voice Of Reason
July 24, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this
Jimmy - The toe injury made it difficult to get from the car to the table, but my trainer assured me that I was not risking any further injury by going as long as I could tolerate the pain. I was in the dinner lineup that evening at The Lighthouse Restaurant at Ponce Inlet. I don’t recommend it… pricey and overcooked food. I do recommend The Deck Down Under in Port Orange at A1A and Dunlawton. They have the best crab cakes around. I’ve never had anything there that wasn’t very good.
By Head Coach
July 24, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this
You know what , its the same old s.h.i.t different day. I try to come up with an answer and every needle headed .s.o.b. blogger who cant think for themselves tries to talk me down. You guys go argue with a tree stump or telephone pole , your wasting my time.
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this
Lew: A couple final comments on the Nevin thing…
You talk about “spending money” on Nevin. What money??? We wouldn’t have to pay the guy anything. Texas is eating his entire salary.
He never seemed comfortable in Texas, but if you look at what he was doing in San Diego before being traded to Texas, and what he’s done in Chicago since his return to the NL, you will see that he’s still capable of being a productive player.
I know you weren’t advocating that we sign Castilla. I just think that comparison is an exaggeration. Nevin is washed up as an all-star. He is no longer that kind of player by any stretch of the imagination. But he is not washed up as a part-time major league ball player. And I would much rather see him at the plate than Pete Orr.
I don’t think we should give up anything of significance to get a player like that, but he wouldn’t cost much money, and if he does’t cost much in talent… let’s go get him. Send Pete Orr back to Richmond.
There. I’m Done. Can’t believe I’ve spent this much time talking about Phil Nevin. LOL
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this
Headcoach, Whud Up???
I’m All for Corey Patterson, Being from The “A” he’ll feel right at home, Patterson and Renteria at the top of the order would be SICK…
And Trade 4 CoCo Cordero from the Rangers as well, that’s all we need at a reasonable price….
Plus Patterson has good Defense, but only an average are, But I’ll take that if he steals 40 bases a year
Soriano For get about it, That dude is as Lazy as they come, Not to mention he will be a 2 month rental, The Braves can’t afford him…
Oh yea What happened to all that Trade 4 Dontrelle CRAP???
Some of you guys are crazy!
By BB FAN
July 24, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this
I have to agree that the Braves could use another starting pitcher. But there is not much out there available.
If Zito is traded, he will require 2 good prospects in return. Not a good deal for a 2 month rental because now that he has hired Boras as his agent, he will likely test free agency.
I can’t stand agents like Boras. I mean sometimes a player should accept a little less to play for a team he is happy with. What’s the difference between 8 million and 10 million a year when you make that much money. Nobody can convince me that they absolutely need that extra 2 million a year. And I think many players would agree to go where they would be happy for a little less, but guys like Boras talk them out of it to make the extra money for himself. I doubt he gives a sh!t if his client is truly happy…as long as he makes that extra money.
That’s why I thought it was great when Andruw Jones told Boras to stay out of his contract talks in 2000. He took less to stay in Atlanta because he was happy there. He could have made 2-3 million more a year as a free agent but he wanted to stay in Atlanta.
Let’s hope he does the same thing after next year.
Anyway, sorry about that little tirade. If the Braves could get a starter that would sign an extension, then great, if not, they should probably just go with what they have so they don’t sacrifice the future.
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this
Sammy Kershaw: Again, I just want someone to replace Pete Orr and his .198 average. Orr can’t hit for average OR power. He has good speed, but doens’t seem to have much success stealing bases even when he does get on base, which is almost never.
Anyone suggesting that Nevin wouldn’t be an impovement over Pete Orr?????????
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
coach, needle-headed bloggers? freddie blassie, right? pencil neck geek? journalist jimmy smith remembers fondly the old live atlanta wrestling show with famed freddie miller and ruth kent. that’s right , ruth kent but no one knew it was her. bloggers should not get exasperated with other bloggers. people should eat more pie.
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this
Oh yea about the guys bashing Langerhans, I agree
I said it when this season started, that if he doesn’t learn to go the other way with pitches, he would continue to struggle, look at what has happened
But I love his hustle, and his Defense
Pete Orr Just Sucks, he needs to be in the Minors, Nuff said…
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this
BB FAN: If Kyle Davies’ rehab continues to go well… we won’t need another starting pitcher. It’s looking like he’ll be back in the fold within the next few weeks. Here’s hoping, because we’re not about to give up anything of significance for a mediocre starting pitcher. Especially with Davies and Hampton both presumably healthy for next season.
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:32 PM | Link to this
KC Your post “I just want someone to replace Pete Orr and his .198 average. Orr can’t hit for average OR power. He has good speed, but doens’t seem to have much success stealing bases even when he does get on base, which is almost never.”
That was funny…about him never getting on base…
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this
Tomahawkin:
Finally!! The voice of reason!
All I’m trying to do is upgrade our bench by replacing Pete Orr, and I’m catching crap for it. I like Orr’s hustle and effort. I’ll feel bad for the guy when he get’s sent down, but the fact of the matter is that he can’t do anything to help this team.
By David O'Brien
July 24, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this
Carlos Lee was a big possibility a month ago, might still be revived, but I think Braves’ priority right now still getting more pitching. Alphonso Soriano _ no way. No way, no way, no way. Far too expensive to re-sign.
Wickman did exactly what he’s supposed to do last night _ groundballs and occasional strikeout. Especially in a park like that, those groundballs nice to see.
dadgum, mighty fine post at 8 a.m. But if you’re ever near K.C., you gotta try Arthur Bryant’s and compare it to those others. Also, Parker’s in Wilson and Greenville, N.C., but I’m sure the Lexington stuff is real similar. That’s also pulled-pork vinegar-based sauce stuff, right?
Tomahawkin’, agree on B.I.G.’s first. Excellent CD. And how about Eric B. & Rakim’s “Paid in Full”? Good stuff, man. Good stuff.
But PE’s “It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back” still the beset.
By Jordan
July 24, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this
Will anyone else be upset if we end up swapping Wilson Betemit for Linebrink and keep Giles at 2nd? As it stands, it’s embarrassing that Cox plays Giles (.245 avg) insteand of WB (300+ avg and more HR’s per at bats).
Just my gripe for the day.
By David O'Brien
July 24, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
that was supposed to be “best,” not beset. wasn’t trying to reinvent the language ala Snoop.
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this
Barry Zito, 2 Month Rental, We Don’t need him, Plus he’ll probably sell out to WhineBrenner and the yankees anyway…
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this
Hell yea, D.O.B. Rock on, And Some old Queen Latifah as well, And A-Tribe-Called-Quest
KC I’ll co-sign about Orr’s hustle, but Ur right 100 percent…
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this
Damn, The only thing that could stop Chipper was an Injury, Go Figure…
That dude is becoming The Chris Chandelier (Chris Chandler) of the Atlanta Braves…
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this
Tomahawkin:
Yeah, we’re not in the market for Barry Zito. I can guarantee you that JS hasn’t even called about him. If we can get Davies (or Thompson, though I’m not holding my breath) healthy… we’ll have 5 talented starters. And the fact is that we’re overstocked in the rotation next season, so we’re probably not even looking for a starter right now.
By Non-Journalist Tommy B
July 24, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this
It’s the Pitching, Stupid this text will be bolded
No, I’m not calling anyone “stupid.” Just twisting a zinger that most of you will get.
Step back and de-couple all the templates we’re so used to using. No, we don’t have a “true” lead-off hitter. No, we don’t have a running game. (Two things I’ve certainly lamented all season.)
But… OK, BUT. However. (And so on and so forth) Look at the simplest common denominator (so well documented by so many in the preceding posts) and we are able to see that we (at least in July) have way more runs per game than we should hope for in our semi-wildest dreams.
We need to have a starting rotation that features at least more than 1 member who can pitch for 7 innings on a recurring basis.
THAT has to be the key that will unlock the 15th straight post-season for us fans of the boys in blue and red.
And speaking of that post-season, we should be doing our re-arming before now and the 31st with at least the following two scenarios in mind…
1) Tigers 2) Red Sox
By ryan b
July 24, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this
Carlos LEE!!!!!!!! what about Mark Redman from KC for the back end of the rotation? be pretty cheap i think
By Mets Stink
July 24, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this
Jordan, Last week I was starting to hope that deal would happen, but Chipper’s so frail that I don’t think we can affort to trade Betemit.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this
journalist penn, thank you for the recommendations. jimmy smith must cross the state to get there but the food may be worth it! journalist was in destin for a conference in april but did not find the truly excellent seafood journalist desired. now, journalist will trek to the east coast for another try. now, the name hushpuppy … where did it originate? this will be a job for carolina lady!
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this
Just to think, I’d bet if we went against the Tigers pitching staff, we’d get our a-s-s handed to us…
By Phat Bat Boy
July 24, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this
I guess our HOF GM couldn’t find any single A pitchers to trade for an experienced bullpen ace who is signed for more than 3 months. At least, Scott Williamson can help the Padres take the Dodgers further out of playoff contention. Now let’s hope that all of our starters can go 8 innings and get us safely to our rent-a-closer. After all, that quality bullpen certainly didn’t answer the bell on Friday.
By Dr. Jay
July 24, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this
DOB…I know Andruw is out because of his upper back, but that was one wicked foul ball he took off the shin Friday night. Is that bothering him too? I’d be in a wheelchair. It was brutal.
By KC
July 24, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this
Non-Journalist Tommy B:
We already have a rotation with more than 1 starter who can go 7 innings or more on a regular basis (Smoltz and Ramirez). If Huddy can get it turned around, we’ll have 3 such starters.
My confidence in the Braves ability to win the Wild Card will be greatly affected by tonight’s game.
Tim Hudson was dominant through 5 innings in St. Louis. In the 6th inning, the wheels came off. However, we have to realize that he was throwing on 3 days rest and in a heat index of 110 degrees.
If he comes out tonight and throws for 7 innings the way he did the first 5 innings of his last start. That will be a very, very good sign!
I think all the pieces are in place for this wild card run. I’m not saying the team couldn’t be improved upon, but I truly do believe that the Braves have all the pieces they need to be the best team in the NL the rest of the way.
But there’s a difference between the pieces being in place, and actual results. Tim Hudson is the #1 key in my mind. If Huddy is right, the Braves will be the only team in the NL with 3 top-of-the-rotation type of starters (Smoltz, Hudson, Ramirez).
It all rest on Huddy’s shoulders. I will be watching tonight’s game with a party favor in one hand and a tissue in the other. Here’s hoping.
By geauxbraves2000
July 24, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this
Patterson may be a good addition to this lineup but the kid simply cannot hit leadoff. My wife is a Cubs fan so I’ve followed them over the years and watched first hand the entire Corey Patterson experiment.
I’m glad the Padres got Williamson, the Braves need to stay away from him.
Nevin would be okay for the bench and a spot start at first.
D Lee is going nowhere. Pierre is tempting, but he’s not the answer. Jacque Jones was an awful signing for the cubs, they needed some power in right.
I’ve read that Andy McPhail is not going to chop up this team just to do that, Eyre & Howry more than likely will be staying. There’s not another Cub relieve that I would want.
From somewhere in IL, this is geauxbraves2000 reporting.
A win tonight makes a 7-2 road trip. That’ll work!!
Geaux Braves!!
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this
I think with Patterson and the Chicago Issue, is that there was too much expected from him, Being their #1 pick, And therefore he pressed, and tried to be a 30-30 guy, and started swinging 4 the fences, He’s built a lot like Furcal, but Hitting homeruns should not be his game…
By journalist PENN
July 24, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this
If you want to replace Pete Orr (and who doesn’t) why not bring up someone from the farm? Here are a selection who are hitting .273 or better:
Take your pick and they are free. FREE
So far the Braves have had 40 Save Opportunities and have blown 20 of them. If they need anything it’s another good arm in the pen for setup or long relief. And I don’t see John Thomson providing either. If he can’t go four innings from the beginning why should we expect him to do it in the middle?
OK, take your pick for someone to replace Orr.
Barbaro Canizares OF .299
Gregor Blanco OF .287
Yunel Escobar SS .284
Wes Timmons SS .316
Martin Prado 2B .308
Carlos Duran OF .300
Carlos Mendez C .295
Tony Pena SS .281
Jamal Strong OF .275
Brayan Pena C .273
By ncscoots
July 24, 2006 02:12 PM | Link to this
KC hits the nail…if Huddy doesn’t turn it around, and RIGHT NOW, you can stick a fork in the Braves. It’s illogical to think that NONE of the wild card-chasing teams ahead of the Braves will have a hot streak between now and October, so Braves HAVE to win consistently from here on out. Can’t do that if Hudson doesn’t step up.
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this
Bring back Prado, I like that cat…He didn’t deserve to get sent down…
By journalist PENN
July 24, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this
Would I trade Prado for Patterson? Not on your life.
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this
OT I Don’t know about you guys, And I don’t want to sound Sexist, But after watching Cold Pizza This morning, I am sooo Tired of Hearing about Danica Patrick, I guess She picked right after Barroid Bonds on ESPN’s Lovefest…Cheesewhiz!….
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this
So Far Hudson has been a Bust, He really needs to get it together, or otherwise, all the people who bashed Chipper and Andruw and wanted them traded will get in Huddy’s a-s-s
By BravesFaninRockies
July 24, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Assert that Lexington ‘cue is like the Eastern NC style in the wrong company, and as Louis Jordan said, you might get a fist in your eye.
Lexington style uses a tomato-and-vinegar-based sauce; Parker’s (yummm) indeed relies on peppers and vinegar.
I grew up eating Lexington style and have switched my allegiance to the Eastern variety. Both are mouthwatering, I must admit. And King’s in Kinston (Eastern style) sells it online!!
By Carolina Lady
July 24, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this
Uh-oh…..methinks I’ve made a little slipup. (sheepish grin) Don’t anybody tell, ok?? Maybe he won’t notice…..
By Glass Half Full
July 24, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this
Someone mentioned Mark Redman earlier. He’s certainly iffy, but perhaps he’d be an upgrade over our current 5th starter, which we do not even have. It seems once a week we promote someone to start because Thomson is “injured.”
By Glass Half Full
July 24, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this
Anyone wanna bet that Thomson remains injury-free after the trade deadline?
By Tony Almeida
July 24, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this
DOB - Do you accept Jack Bauer as your personal savior?
By hk
July 24, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this
… Brave hitter ‘MVP’ through last night …
… Frenchy back in 2nd, overall team average second highest in the ten years I’ve been keeping this thing …
Year End..Runs..Homers..RBI’s..MVP
Andruw….100…..40…..147…287
Frenchy….90…..32…..115…237
Chipper…102…..25……99…225
Renteria..114…..18……70…202
LaRoche….82…..28……89…199
Giles……95…..12……55…162
McCann…..57…..18……72…147
Betemit….48…..13……47…109
Langy……48…..10……33….92
Team Average……………….183
click here for chart
By Tomahawkin
July 24, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this
Word of Mouf on ESPN is That Soriano Is close to going to The White Sox…
I don’t think they can afford him after the offseason, So I wouldn’t be suprised If he ended up with WhineBrenner and the yanks next year…
By journalist jimmy smith
July 24, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this
carolina lady, he has been confused with a dead giraffe. he will notice.
By KC
July 24, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
Tony Almeida: You’re dead. Shut up.
By Glass Half Full
July 24, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
SI.com is still fanning the Betemit for Linebrink trade rumor. The writer reports that many in the Padres organization prefer Betemit to Morgan Ensberg, who is also on their radar. Personally, I don’t think Wilson is going anywhere this season due to nagging injuries from Chipper and Giles.
By Carolina Lady
July 24, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
But he doesn’t always have time to read every page. Seems there’s this relative who is taking up most of his spare time lately…..
Memo to self: PROOF-READ POSTS!
By TennesseePaul
July 24, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
at least Scott Williamson can help the Padres take the Dodgers further out of playoff contention
I think the Dodgers have been doing a fabulous job all by themselves. They’re terrible right now.
Watching them play has put a debate in my mind. Is it better to have one 10 game losing streak or two 5 game losing streaks seperated by 1 win? I’d imagine the two streaks would be very disheartening. I thought of this while looking at the Dodgers and Braves recently.
Also, has anyone noticed no team can beat the Cards lately? They’re pounding everyone. Well, every one but the Braves. It’s quite a testiment to the team right now. The Braves absolutely destroyed the Cards. We out scored them 32-16.
Let’s see a win tonight Braves!
GO BRAVES
By Tony Almeida
July 24, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
My death was staged, I’ll be back next season.
By KC
July 24, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this
TennPaul:
Good point! The Braves really do have a good team right now. I’ve said it before, but if Hudson pitches the way he’s capable of pitching, I think Atlanta will have the best team in the NL.
By Chop Chop
July 24, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this
I hope they find a way to bring Michelle back, Tony. She’s easy on the eyes.
TennPaul, that was in the middle of the most prolific five-game offensive stretch in 76 years, so I would take the Braves’ drubbings of the Cards in the first two games of that series with a grain, nay, a pillar of salt. Games like the one played last night are more likely to be the kind that the Braves will require the utmost proficiency at winning through the rest of the season.
By Tony Almeida
July 24, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Michelle was easy.
By wg
July 24, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this
Just got back from Philly. Sat game rained out. Those idiots down there got through the National Anthem, then the rains came. 2 hours of waiting, the rains stopped, and then they called the game. It didn’t rain the rest of the night. They deserve the team they have.
LET’S SWEEP THE METS AND GET ON WITH IT.
By jake
July 24, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this
I also wish the NL would win a world series, but since the home team wins the series 75% of the time and we have that exceedingly stupid rule about the winner of the allstar game being the home team, the chances are two: slim andd none.
By Jason
July 24, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this
Why do we continue to talk betemit trade???? We have a perfectly worthless 2nd baseman we could get rid of!!!!!!
By KC
July 24, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this
Jason: LET’S QUIT WITH THE TIRED GILES BASHING ALREADY!!!!!!!!!!!!
GOD, I AM SICK OF HEARING IT!
A few numbers for your reading pleasure:
2003: .316, 21-HR, 69-RBI, 49-Doubles, 101-Runs, 14-SB
2004: hit .311 in 379 at-bats (injured much of the year)
2005: .291, 15-HR, 63-RBI, 45-Doubles, 104-Runs, 16-SB
Giles is an all-star who has had a difficult time acclimating to a new role (batting leadoff) that he’s not particulartly with. It’s took him a few months, but he finally stopped pressin so hard, and started to adjust to that leadoff spot. He was tearing the cover off the ball before he hurt his thumb.
Yeah, the guy’s had a lousy 3 months (for the first time in his career). If you have a great thoroughbread, you don’t take him out and shoot him the first time he doesn’t finish well in a race… well, maybe you would, I don’t know.
By KC
July 24, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this
CORRECTION: meant to say… “he’s not particularly comforatable with…”
By Jason
July 24, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this
Sorry KC I just don’t see him improving much over this year too many K’s I like betemits potential and what he has given us this year. I may be wrong, but it is just an opinion also remember that we have to start a new contract for giles soon Kyle Lohse(not proven at all and has always sucked) of the Twins won arbitration, I can’t fathom how much Giles will make!
By dadgum
July 25, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this
Been off the blog for a bit, something about work and all, hope I am not redundant here but don’t have time to read what I missed but maybe I can add something. I feel the Braves will move Giles given what Betemit has shown this year. Not so much for his offense but for his work at 3rd given Chipper’s health and perhaps future health. Giles is just expendable pure and simple. I like him but he is the easiest to replace. Now that we have Big Wick to close and some in the pen moving to more accustomed roles in middle relief it seems to me that our most glaring need is to get a proven starter.
I would normally say true leadoff guy but not sure we could get what we need in that department for Giles et al. We’ll see soon.
DOB- yes I have eaten at Arthur B’s in KC but help me here—there is another BBQ joint basically on the stateline that is pretty famous but can’t come up with the name, anyway liked that the best when I went to KC.
Oh yeah—-if you ever just happen to be trudging along I64 east of Richmond take the Lightfoot exit which is almost in Williamsburg and pull up a seat at Pierce’s Pit BBQ—-they don’t just put that in Southern Living’s Top Ten for no reason. People drive the 50 miles from Richmond just to eat there at least I do. Worth it just trust me here…….
Just trying to help department…..if traveling through Emporia, VA on I 95 near the NC line the speed limit is 55 ( I know hard to do on 95) if you go over 60 you stand a great chance of receiving an autographed piece of paper indicating your exact speed. You see Emporia doesn’t believe in deficit spending and don’t care for the excuses given by girls in red Jeep Grand Cherokees returning from college. You see I …never mind.
THE OLDER I GET THE BETTER I USED TO BE.
By Jeff
July 25, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this
Man, I wish we would make a move for a dominant, strikeout guy like the Sox did with the acquisition of Mike MacDougal. I keep hearing everyone say that noone is available, but I would love to have this guy. He throws a 4 seamer near 100, a 2 seamer around 95-96 and has a nasty breaking ball.