AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2006 > July > 27 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USIntrigue over Chipper’s absence? Not really
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Chipper was out of the lineup today because he’s being traded to the Brewers for Carlos Lee.
Hello! Just wanted to make a splash there.
We kid. Chipper not being traded, just kept out of lineup for precautionary reasons because the strained left oblique (or side, as I like to say) hurts a bit more batting right-handed than left. And lefty Scott Olsen’s pitching for the Marlins (quite well, I might add, with only two hits allowed so far in three scoreless innings).
Chipper said he expects to play all three games against the Mets this weekend, including Sunday vs. the ‘ol lefty Tom Glavine, as long as his side continues to improve as it has the past couple of days.
Since everybody’s wondering: No, nothing new yet today on the Betemit/Proctor trade front. I can understand, certainly, why so many of you wouldn’t trade Betemit for him. You like Betemit, and he’s played very well this year, and seems invaluable given the recurrent injuries with Chipper and Marcus.
But you’ve got to give up something good to get something. And you can’t just trade Giles and his big salary because he’s not having a good year. See, other teams don’t exist to help the Braves win the division title. They’re also trying to do same (my one condescending line of the blog).
I said yesterday, the Braves won’t do the Betemit trade, probably not at least, unless they know they can finalize another trade soon for another “super utility” type of infielder. And no, I don’t know who that would be. They’re talking to teams on that front, is all I know.
You shouldn’t make too much of Proctor’s bad outing last night, other than to note that Torre isn’t using him as if he’s about to be traded. By that I mean, he pitched him for the third consecutive night, after using Proctor for two innings the night before.
The Yankees won’t be able to trade him if his arm falls off. But Torre has always been known to do that with his best relievers. He finds a guy he can rely on, then pitches him until he runs out of gas or gets hurt. He’s not the only manager known to do that.
Proctor had pitched nine scoreless innings (three hits, no walks, 12 strikeouts) in seven games over 11 days since the All-Star break before giving up four hits and a run last night. That’s a hell of a workload for a reliever, folks.
Speaking of bad outings, how ‘bout Wickman’s results since his horrible game at Cincinnati on June 29?
The big man _ and yes, Wick does look like he could move right into long-haul trucking when the baseball’s over _ gave up three runs, five hits, two walks and his only homer of the season during two-thirds of an inning at Cincinnati’s absurdly small park on June 30.
Since then? He’s given up a total of four hits and one walk in seven scoreless innings over seven appearances, converting six-of-six save opportunities. Oh, mercy, is this guy the salve the Braves needed for their bullpen, or what?
OK, gotta get back to covering the game, making calls, working on stories for tomorrow’s paper, etc. I apologize for the slowness of the blogosphere today, but it’s getting up near 600 posts, last I checked.
And I’m not used to these early wakeup calls after a night game. Usually takes me a couple hours and pot of coffee before I’m in writing mode. Didn’t have time to write a blog before I got here and had to get down to the clubhouse and then crunching numbers for scouting box for Mets series.
Anyway, you don’t want to hear my itinerary or moaning. Me and LaRoche don’t care what you think, anyway. KIDDING, folks, kidding. And I was pleased to see there weren’t many petty boos for LaRoche today when he came to bat, after his comments to me that ran in today’s paper.
If I was a fan, he’d be a guy I’d pull for, because honesty and real-ness is refreshing, and you shouldn’t just like a guy because he says what you want to hear. Look what that’s done for A-Rod, being perceived as a phony who always wants to say the right things. It’s backfired on him in a huge way.
LaRoche just doesn’t have a filter, and that’s good, in my book.
I swear, if all of you could have a beer and shoot the crap with every Brave, LaRoche would be near the top of most of your lists of guys you’d like to hang with. Seriously. There’s a bunch of them, especially younger ones, who are as normal and down-to-earth as your neighbor, and he’s one of them.
OK, I’m off my soapbox and back to work.
Anybody going to Ryan Adams this weekend at Tabernacle? I’ll be there for the Sunday show. If anyone’s going to Rascal Flatts (not me, thanks), keep an eye out for Braves. I know the head man (Bobby) is going with his wife, and I heard several players talking about going, including Hampton and some of the country-loving young players.
Cox asked me if I was going, and I said, not unless George Jones is opening. He liked that. He digs the Possum, like a lot of us do. His wife’s dragging him to this show _ I say dragging, because Bobby would prefer to stay on the farm in Adairsville and cook a steak after a day game, rather than head to Philips Arena.
That’s it. Now I am going to work.
.JPG)
-1.JPG)
Services »
Comments
By Ted
July 27, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this
I agree that you have give up something to get something. The problem is that Proctor isn’t something.
A 29 y.o. reliever who took 7 years to reach the majors, who gives up HR more frequently than Jorge Sosa, and who is on pace to pitch 100 innings (you should look up how “well” relief pitchers do in the years after they’ve hit 100 IP) is just not something of value.
I repeat - if you can get Linebrink for WB, then it is stupid to trade WB for something less than Linebrink. For the rest of this year, there is only a $400k difference between the two.
Again, I have no problem dealing for BP help. And if WB is the player to go, so be it. But please, PLEASE let it be for someone who is actually better than what we have now (a bunch of “late-blooming” no-name MR). And I don’t care that he throws hard. Yates throws hard. Paronto throws hard. They have to be good as well. Proctor is not. This will be a major mistake of a trade if they trade WB for Proctor, especially when Proctor is scuffling/hurt next year having been worn out this year.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this
What does Chipper playing all 3 games against the Muts matter if we lose 2 of 3 to the Marlins??? We need this game! Ever since the 4 game sweep we had against the Marlins in May they have owned us. Very frustrating…
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this
And why is nobody talking about this Marlins pitching staff? Any one of the 3 starters that we’ve seen would be the #2 starter for us this year! I dare say it - The Marlins starting rotation is better than ours, and will be better for years to come!
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this
This game is making me sick. What a disgrace. The Braves are no good unless they hit the longball (well, with the exception of that one game a while back against Dontrelle). Speaking of Dontrelle, we are going to lost 2 out of 3…at home…again…to a team where we didn’t even face who is arguably their best pitcher. The Braves have to beat the teams they ae supposed to beat, especially at home, if they want to win anything.
I know I am stating the obvious, but just when you think they are on the right track and things are in their favor as far as opponents, playing at home, etc, they start to suck again.
Regards,
Jason
By KC
July 27, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this
DOB, go pitch!
By hk
July 27, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this
… 621 posts on the previous blog and counting, and in less than 24 hours, I believe that’s a record !!
… couple of weeks ago a St Louis sports writer mentioned that this blog had more hits than any he has seen … pretty good coming from a great baseball town … have googled around to other cities, can’t find any that remotely compare volume-wise with this one …
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this
Great, and now Villareal comes in to officially put the game out of reach for the Braves… Jesus, losing 2 of 3 to start this homestand is a mini-disaster, is it not DOB?
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this
Time to trade Betemit. He just blew a double play chance.
By geauxbraves2000
July 27, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this
The Braves schedule appears relatively light the rest of the year, which translates to them facing young teams, and young teams have young pitchers. If the Braves don’t start hitting these young pitchers, it’s not going to matter if they go out and get Marino Rivera himself.
Come on offense, wake up against these pitchers, and for goodness sake, TAKE A PITCH!
Geaux Braves!!
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this
Nice play Wilson Betemit - Said it once and I’ll say it again - AVERAGE DEFENDER AT BEST!!!
By John
July 27, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this
Can John Shur admit that he got ripped off in the Johnny Estrada trade? I mean, the Braves wouldn’t be in the mess of trading for a setup guy if that trade worked.
JS — you got fleeced!
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this
Any way to find out the W-L record for games in which Todd Pratt was the catcher?
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this
Renteria and Giles just made mistakes. Trade them both.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this
Ahhhh…. The blog loads so fast. It’s like a breath of fresh air. Thanks DOB.
Let’s do this Braves! We must win today. we MUST!
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
Thanks David O’B.
If Generals reacted to each adversity as some fans do … there wouldn’t be any wars. Both sides would just give up and go home.
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
Should’ve been two errors on that double play opportunity. That looked painfully obvious.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this
Wow, Brutal, this game is gonna put me in a bad mood for the rest of the day… And don’t look now everyone, but it’s now 3-3 over the Braves last 6 games since winning 7 in a row. BACK TO MEDIOCRITY?
By Tony Almeida
July 27, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this
OFF WITH HIS HEAD!!!
By NYCMetsFan
July 27, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
Are you guys ready to play a real team this weekend? Your bullpen and closer up for a real lineup? Can’t beat the Marlins, can’t beat the Mets. GO METS!
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
The Mets lost a series to the Cubs recently.
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this
An absolute DISGRACE. This is why this team will not make the playoffs. They can’t beat crap teams at home. My word, the opposing pitcher has as many hits as the entire damn team. Personally, I think we can look back at this series as one that really hurt our chances. I hope its not a turning point, but this is the 2nd time we have come off of a good road trip only to come home and absolutely suck. This is a gosh darn disgrace. Disgrace, disgrace, disgrace.
By geauxbraves2000
July 27, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this
The Braves bullpen couldn’t get my five year old out. Can Smoltz and Wickman pitch every game?
Not negative, just frustrated.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
Last night was an emotionally-draining victory, which I think is taking its toll on us today in the field and at the plate.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
NYCMetsFan: How are those Cubbies?
By Pointman
July 27, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this
Sheezus guys!!! C’mon!! Are we gonna lose 2 of 3 to the Marlins? Not good. Not good AT ALL.
By Stanford
July 27, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this
Guys this ‘crap’ team is a game and a half (soon to be half a game) worse than us and has the best record in the NL since mid-may. And, has the 3rd best e.r.a. in the league.
Any losses hurt at this point, but it’s not like we’re playing the ‘62 Mets.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this
Chipper or no Chipper I believe it will be the same result this weekend: Mets coming in and beating down the Braves. I have never seen a team that is 11.5 games out and under .500 with such delusions of grandeur. Play for that high draft pick and maybe just maybe you can find a closer or just anyone who wont choke in the playoffs.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this
Yes, the Marins are not a ‘crap’ team, but what is frustrating is that most of these guys would be in AAA under normal circumstances.
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
People, relax. Take a deep breath. Come down off the ledge.
Shiell was making his second major league start, an emergency start, and he won’t be a factor down the stretch, once Davies gets back.
The Marlins, before today, had a 35-22 record since May 22, the best winning percentage in the NL over that stretch.
Their starting pitchers, at least three of them (not Dontrelle), have been the hottest trio in the NL for the past couple of months.
And once the Braves get another setup man, you won’t see Villarreal pitching in any tight situation with games on the line.
OK, now don’t you feel bad about kicking your dog or throwing that beer at your TV screen?
By geauxbraves2000
July 27, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
I wonder if the Braves have the Mets on their minds instead of this game?
By Dog the Bounty Hunter
July 27, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this
One of your best hitters, Chipper, is on the bench hurt. So while one of your best hitters sits, go ahead and sit McCann, one of your other best hitters. Langerhans finally starts to hit last night, so go ahead and bench him too. All this on a day a rookie is pitching and he will most likely give up runs. Bobby Cox is a sheer genius.
If I can work 10 hours a day, they can play a game for 3 hours a day, they can rest in the offseason!!! Play your best lineup already!!!
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine,
The crap team the Braves aren’t beating at home today will only be a half-game behind the Braves with a win today. That crap team also has a better starting rotation than the Braves.
Look. The Braves just aren’t that good this year. This is the 101st game of the year and how can any Brave fan honestly believe that the Braves are ever going to be consistent this season? I want the team to be consistent. I’ve been hoping the team would find that consistency, but it just hasn’t happened this year. There’s always the chance that they’ll find that consistency. I’m not betting on it.
By Stanford
July 27, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this
GHF, you’re right. Look at the Marlins last year: Delgado, Lo Duca, Encarnacion, Lowell, Pierre, AJ Burnett, J Beckett, Todd Jones… god it goes on and on. They gave up EVERYBODY but Willis and Cabrera and now have a payroll of $15 mil and a ton of talent.
Scary, if they bumped their payroll to $30 mil and added an A-Rod or a Soriano.
Scary anyway, really.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this
The Braves are trying. But when you are sub .500, whatever your team is doing just doesnt work. Its called being a subpar team.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this
Alright, right hander in…let’s see Chipper and McCann off the bench.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this
Quien es tu padre, Randy Messenger?
By TDub
July 27, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the info DOB. I’m jealous about the Ryan Adams show, “La Cienega Just Smiled” is one of my favorite songs of all time. Don’t get to concerts much with one 2 1/2 year old and another six weeks from delivery.
Only three guys in baseball qualify as “super utility” to me - Bill Hall, Chone Figgins, and Ryan Freel. Surely we’re not talking about getting one of these guys that’d be too good to be true…
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
Both San Fran and Arizona are losing…
By The REAL Todd Pratt
July 27, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
Todd Pratt DATE OPP RESULT AB Apr. 5 @LAD W 9-8 3
Apr. 8 @SF L 12-6 3 Apr. 16 SD L 4-3 2 Apr. 19 @NYM W 2-1 3 Apr. 24 @MIL L 3-2 2 Apr. 29 NYM L 1-0 2
May. 11 @FLA W 9-1 5 May. 13 WAS W 8-5 2
May. 16 FLA W 4-3 3 May. 20 @ARI L 13-0 2
May. 21 @ARI W 2-1 4
May. 22 @SD W 3-1 3 May. 23 @SD L 2-1 2 May. 24 @SD W 10-6 5 May. 26 @CHC W 6-5 3
May. 29 LAD L 12-5 4 May. 31 LAD W 9-3 2 Jun. 3 ARI L 4-2 2
Jun. 4 ARI L 9-3 3 Jun. 5 WAS L 5-4 3 Jun. 7 WAS L 5-2 3 Jun. 8 @HOU L 7-4 3
Jun. 14 @FLA L 6-5 4 Jun. 16 BOS L 4-1 3 Jun. 25 @TB W 4-1 3
Jun. 26 @NYY L 5-2 3
Jul. 2 BAL W 10-3 4 Jul. 7 CIN L 10-5 4 Jul. 24 @PHI W 10-8 4
ERA when Pratt has 2 AB or more is 5.1 (which means he’s the starting cather, I chose two to account for BB and Sacrafices) Braves team ERA is 4.
Pratt’s pitch selection has cost the braves 1/2 runs a game. Don’t be fooled by Chuck’s good numbers with Pratt, If McCann was catching, Chuck’s numberwould be even better!!!
And Stop with the Veteran catcher compliments!!!!
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this
Thanks Todd Pratt. That’s about the numbers I expected.
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Certainly see your points—valid as usual—but, it may not matter by the time the Braves have a 5th starter to throw out there as well as a dependable setup guy.
Regards,
Jason
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this
Would anyone not take any of the 3 starters we’ve seen for the Marlins in this series? I’d take any one of the 3 for any pitcher in our rotation with the exception of Smoltz…
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this
I agree with you, Stanford. It is pretty scary that the Marlins can put together a squad that can compete as well as this one after grenading last year’s team. Just because you offload a lot of salary doesn’t mean that the talent you get in return is going to justify it. So far, I’d say the Marlins’ front office did a hell of a job in the trades they made. Picking up Uggla as a Rule 5 guy was also rather shrewd.
By Vol
July 27, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this
You have to give up something for nothing??? What did we give up to get Wickman, who 99% percent of the people on this blog would rather have than Proctor?
I’d trade our 19th best prospect (if injured) for Proctor.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this
Todd Pratt or no Todd Pratt, the Braves will still be under .500 after this weekend. Theres always the wild card
By The FAKE Todd Pratt
July 27, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this
Sorry for the mess above. DOB any thoughts?
Todd Pratt DATE OPP RESULT AB Apr. 5 @LAD W 9-8 3
Apr. 8 @SF L 12-6 3 Apr. 16 SD L 4-3 2 Apr. 19 @NYM W 2-1 3 Apr. 24 @MIL L 3-2 2 Apr. 29 NYM L 1-0 2
May. 11 @FLA W 9-1 5 May. 13 WAS W 8-5 2
May. 16 FLA W 4-3 3 May. 20 @ARI L 13-0 2
May. 21 @ARI W 2-1 4
May. 22 @SD W 3-1 3 May. 23 @SD L 2-1 2 May. 24 @SD W 10-6 5 May. 26 @CHC W 6-5 3
May. 29 LAD L 12-5 4 May. 31 LAD W 9-3 2 Jun. 3 ARI L 4-2 2
Jun. 4 ARI L 9-3 3 Jun. 5 WAS L 5-4 3 Jun. 7 WAS L 5-2 3 Jun. 8 @HOU L 7-4 3
Jun. 14 @FLA L 6-5 4 Jun. 16 BOS L 4-1 3 Jun. 25 @TB W 4-1 3
Jun. 26 @NYY L 5-2 3
Jul. 2 BAL W 10-3 4 Jul. 7 CIN L 10-5 4 Jul. 24 @PHI W 10-8 4
ERA when Pratt has 2 AB or more is 5.1 (which means he’s the starting cather, I chose two to account for BB and Sacrafices)
Braves team ERA is 4.6
Pratt’s pitch selection has cost the braves 1/2 runs a game.
Don’t be fooled by Chuck’s good numbers with Pratt,
If McCann was catching, Chuck’s numberwould be even better!!!
There really no intangibles when he’s giving up more runs behind the plate
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this
Bob Wickman is probably better suited to be a plumber in Turner Field than a “closer”
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this
Well, San Fran and Arizona are losing. Let’s hope for a Reds loss tonight.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this
Why the hell didn’t Cox pinch hit McCann for Pratt just now??? Screw a full days rest for him, he’s only 22! They guy can play every day, trust me. And DOB, so what you’re basically saying is that the MARLINS are a better team than us right now? And we shouldn’t be worried about this because?…
By NYCMetsFan
July 27, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this
True - Mets lost a series to the Cubs…but last I checked the Mets were 19 games over .500 and had a 12 game lead over the Braves. The Braves by the way, in late July are about to go 5 games below .500. So your point would be……?
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this
Too bad this team plays in south Florida. I’ll bet several baseball-friendly regions would love to have them. I guess the cocaine and naked ladies keep people away from the ballpark.
By eware
July 27, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, I’ll be at the Saturday night Ryan Adams show. I wish my wallet could afford me both nights, cause I’m sure it’ll be different.
Let me know how the Sunday show goes.
Do you know of an opening act?
By KC
July 27, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this
DonC:
I agree that FLA has some great looking young pitching, but…
Your last statement makes me think you’re not paying any attention to Horacio Ramirez.
Since returning from the DL back in May, his ERA over that period is around 3.50.
8 of his 10 starts over that stretch were absolutely stellar. And if you take away the 2 starts that weren’t good, you’ll have an ERA of around 1.50 since his return in May.
HoRam’s finally coming into his own. There aren’t many pitchers in baseball (even established #1 starters) that I would trade straight up for HoRam right now.
And I’m not sure why you wouldn’t like Chuck James. He looks very promising, and has done a good job so far at 4-1 (3.52).
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this
Hey being a wild card gets the bravos one game at home in the playoffs…thats one game that wont be sold out as opposed to the usual 2 unsold home playoff games
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this
If the Marlins finish the season with a .500 record or better, Joe Girardi should be manager of the year in the NL, regardless if they make the playoffs or not…
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this
Yeah, I know Miami is Dolphins country, but how good has that team been since Marino retired? In fact, what the hell have they done since the Superbowl in ‘85, which they lost?
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
KC,
While Horacio has pitched better, let’s not get carried away. I can think of plenty of pitchers I rather have than HoRam.
Regards,
Jason
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this
Girardi will probably be Manager of the Year anyway as will Jim Leyland.
By Longwood's Finest
July 27, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this
Well unfortunately I am not watching the game, still at work… is it really that ugly in the field? You can never tell from gameday. I think our boys might be thinking about the Mutts, which is fine by me as long as they take 2 of 3. I love how when TBS decides to broadcast a game it has to be in the middle of the week, in the middle of the day when the average Joe is at work
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this
If you wouldnt trade Zito, Martinez, Liraino, Santana, Willis, Schilling etc for “HoRam” straight up then maybe you need to stop watching baseball much less posting on this blog. And possibly get your head checked out
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this
I’m tellin’ ya, this is the hangover effect from last night’s game
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this
And I’d know being partially hungover myself.
By ByeByeBraves
July 27, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this
Tomorrow begins the crushing of this dream you people think is a comeback for the division title. But like someone else here said, you MIGHT still get 1 home game as a wildcard to not sell out. And lose.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this
I’ve been watching our pitchers KC, HoRam and James have looked good, but, Anabel Sanchez is arguably the hottest pitcher in the national league right now. And Josh Johnson could seriously be a viable Cy Young candidate this year if he had a few more wins. He’s been more consistent this whole year than anyone on this Braves staff, including Smoltz. So, I see your point, but at the very least, you have to say that from top to bottom, Florida’s rotation is better than ours right now…
By Longwood's Finest
July 27, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this
Yeah, I’m sure everyone got blitzed last night
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this
Man, a comeback win would be huge going into this weekend, especially with 2 teams in front of us already losing. Come on Bravos, please…make a huge comeback like the good ol days, please!!
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this
NYCMetsFan: How about those Cubbies!
I don’t know if you saw this, but these Braves swept the Cubs. Set all sorts of records doing so. Go Cubs!
Here’s to hoping we line every ball we can off of Pedro’s hip.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
I’m not defending empty seats during the playoffs, but Turner Field seats 55,000 while Fenway seats somewhere in the 30s. Compound that with high ticket prices, terrible parking, expensive food and drink, and frightening “vendors” outside the stadium, and it’s easy to just stay home.
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
Mikey,
Horacio is so good that I’d trade him for Santana, Liriano and Nathan. The Twins would be getting a steal of a deal, but the Braves need quantity in return for Horacio. As hard as it would be for Schuerholz to make that deal, I think he should.
By Bammer
July 27, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
DOB, gotta say it, you are amazing. Blogging and covering the story at the same time! Very impressive. Thanks for going way beyond the call of duty.
I have a teenager with Asperger’s Syndrome (many similarities to ADD) and, like LaRoche, she tells it like it is. Nothing confrontational or provoking, just straight-shooting honesty. She’s the most refreshing kid in the world with which to have a conversation. I would imagine LaRoche is very much like that.
By Pointman
July 27, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
My dog just threw HIS beer at the TV, and kicked the cat.
By KC
July 27, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this
JasoninMaine:
I didn’t say there wasn’t anybody… just said there weren’t many I’d rather have.
Here are a few examples of starters I would not trade HoRam for straight-up (not taking payroll considerations into account at all. Just age and ability):
I would not trade HoRam for…
P. Martinez
T. Glavine
M. Mussina
B. Arroyo
B. Penny
B. Zito
Here are a few pitchers that I would trade HoRam for:
F. Liriano
J. Santana
B. Webb
R. Halladay
Keep watching HoRam. He’s finally becoming what the Braves always felt he had a chance to be… one of the best lefties in the game.
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this
DonC, no, I’m merely saying, don’t kick your dog.
Fake Todd Pratt, you’re right about one thing: Those numbers were a mess. Can’t read ‘em, dude.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this
Alright, Sosa’s in the game. In a way, he is the closer. Bring him in, and the ball game’s over.
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this
GHF,
If Fenway had 55,000 seats, they’d be full for Red Sox playoff games. Atlanta doesn’t have that same tight-knit connection with its pro sports teams as some other cities do. There’s no shame in that, but it would be nice if people in the metro area didn’t mind actually showing up for playoff games and then being disappointed by the inevitable playoff failure.
By Longwood's Finest
July 27, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this
When was his last appearance, seems like 3 weeks ago…not that it is a bad thing
By bigboi
July 27, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this
Sosa seems to be having a good outing, maybe he can be our new set-up man.
By bigboi
July 27, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this
Sosa seems to be having a good outing, maybe he can be our new set-up man.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this
Good point, Chop Chop. Atlanta and the southeast in general are pretty fickle with all of its teams.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this
Now the Braves absolutely have to win 2 of 3 from the Muts, not a good situation to be in… especially when Smoltz won’t be pitching in any of the games and Hudson will, UGH!
By geauxbraves2000
July 27, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this
It’s close to the non waiver deadline, I wonder if Sosa caught a “Thomson”
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this
Injury to Sosa? Man, he wasn’t in long enough to give up a homerun! Bitter disappointment.
By die hard braves fan
July 27, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this
ITS AINT OVER TILL IT OVA? BUT WHAT THE EFF SOSA IS PITCHING FOR? I CANT STAND HIS PUNK NON PITCHING BEHIND!
BC GO EASY ON DA BEN GAYS!!!
but TRADE VIRREALL TO YANKS FOR PROCTOR
DIDNT WE GET HIM AND MCCANN IN RETURN FOR DA CHIPS GUY WE GAVE UP? LOL
By bigboi
July 27, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this
Nevermind he just got hurt. Just as he was starting to really pick up.
By TDub
July 27, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this
To paraphrase Indiana Jones, “Sosa. Oh god, why did it have to be Sosa…”
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this
How is Stockman doing at AAA? DL Sosa no matter how serious the injury is.
By Vol
July 27, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this
I would have saved Sosa for pinch-htting duties instead.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this
Hey TennesseePaul try not to make your neck sore by staring up at the mets. The mets could have lost that game yesterday and they still would have had a double digit lead on your bravos. Try and get to .500 first and then we can talk.
By KC
July 27, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this
I’ve got an idea…
Let’s give Jorge Sosa to the Mets as long as they promise to pitch him.
We should catch the Mets within 3 weeks!
By Vol
July 27, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this
Why does Ray have mop up duties today?
By Lew
July 27, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this
I think most of the regulars here realize that I’m as big a Braves’ fan as there is. That being said, is anyone else coming to the conclusion that we are not one pitcher away from having a snowball’s chance in an Atlanta August, but at least 2 starters and two relievers? Even if by some wild card chance out of hell we actually make it to the playoffs (and if we do it will be because the teams in fronnt of us collapse), that we aren’t going anywhere further up the line again. Smoltz is a gamer-no doubt one of the all time best-but he is one wrong move from missing a month. Hudson will have to do a complete turnaround. Horacio will have to stay hot and not tweak the hamstring (and anyone who thinks we can afford to dump him is nuts). James is still extremely inexperienced. And that’s all we got guys. The bullpen has benefited by Wickman’s presence, but is still shaky at the best of time. I’m just not sure we got the horses to run the race and it doesn’t look like we have anyone to trade for that much talent. Hell’ we can’t even beat the Marlins and they were supposed to lose 100+ games. I’m not sure even a magician like JS can fill all of these holes.
By Vol
July 27, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this
Chipper and McCann on the bench. You never know…
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this
Mikey,
Let’s not get too carried away over one division title…if you win it. Why don’t you come back and talk to us in say 2019 when you have won 14 in a row, and we can talk.
Regards,
Jason
By die hard braves fan
July 27, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this
RALLY TIME!
DO THE CHOP YALL!!!
GO A-Roach ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY!!!!
By Pointman
July 27, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
Oy…LaRoche is fielding first like a Gold Glover and hitting the ball like an All-Star…and yet the whole ADD thing still pops up like it’s his most important stat. In a way, I wish we’d never been told, because now he’s the poster child for all that. Do you think maybe his frank reaction to the fans was simply a heartfelt comment, and not some teret-like spasm brough on by ADD? Let’s not get carried away folks.
By die hard braves fan
July 27, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this
how adam didnt steal?!?!? steal mannn!
do the hit n run!!!
By KC
July 27, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this
Mikey:
You should be very proud of your Mets. And you have much to look forward to. After all, since the turn of the new century, Pedro and Glavine’s combined post-season ERA is over 5.00. And with Steve Trachsel as your #3 starter… your World Series hopes have never looked better!
I’ve seen Glavine in post-season action first-hand, and I have to tell you… There’s nothing quite as majestic as the sight of baseball after baseball soaring through the night air, and landing in the glove (of the bullpen coach) with a soft audible patter.
Oh, it’s quite a sight to behold. Believe me! You’ll get to see it first hand.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this
Funny, KC…
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this
Well, that was totally gay. This team needs an enema after that one.
By JasonInMaine
July 27, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this
Huge loss…missed a golden opportunity to gain games on teams in front of us. Like I have been saying, if you can’t beat the Marlins at home, forget about the playoffs.
Regards,
Jason
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this
By the way, old friend Farnsworth was the reason Proctor pitched last night. Farnsworth’s back acted up when he tried to warm up for eighth, so Torre turned to his new fave bullpen arm, Proctor, who already led the majors in relief innings with 64 before going again last night.
Alas, it appears no Betemit-for-Proctor trade will occur, if Torre’s comments to NY media are indication. He says he’s too valuable, and Yanks supposedly told Braves no go on Proctor, which was only way Braves would trade Betemit to them.
By die hard braves fan
July 27, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this
booooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
BOBBY GOT TO GO!
By j-man
July 27, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this
did anybody notice how badly THE TED hurt us in todays game. andruws shot in the 7th or 8th would have been out at most of these newer ballparks. and im a little high but i can almost clearly remember like 6 or 7 braves hit balls to the warning track that could have made it out anywhere else.
tear down the ted and move in the fences. the days of top tier pitching is long gone. our only shot is to go for the longball. sign carlos lee (under 40 K’s this year!!) and move in the fences a good 20 feet and we are set for next year.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this
I just don’t wanna see Betemit dealt for some questionable reliever like Torres or the 63 year old Roberto Hernandez.
By j-man
July 27, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this
linebrink for betemit sounds absolutely perfect
By ByeByeBraves
July 27, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this
Hey TenneseePaul I don’t know if YOU saw THIS (and no, I dont mean other men’s genitals up close cause I KNOW you’ve seen THOSE)but these mets are leaving your Bills, uh I mean Braves in the dust. And KC please enlight us all about the BRAVE’S WS hopes and performances the last 14 years. Actually I only have a minute or so (doing your mom you know)so can you just give me your WS wins history in those years?
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this
All the Mets have to do is win ONE world series to match what the illustrious bravos did in their 14 years of divisional dominance. Just ONE title. Now who on this board thinnks that the mets with the way the team is structured now wont do better than that? Even the Buffalo Bills would have won more than 1 super bowl with 14 straight playoff appearances. 14 divisional flags are meaningless without that silver trophy.
By AJK
July 27, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this
DOB: You hear any whispers about the Braves looking for an OF bat or leadoff hitter as well as bullpen help?
By HeyByeByeBraves
July 27, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this
Watch your mouth…we don’t need your yankee urine smelling filth on this mecca for braves fans..what kind of person looks forward to going to another teams blog to talk trash…i bet you aren’t so tough outside of cyber space. I would recommend never ever making fun of southern man’s mother ever again. Good Day to you sir!!!!
By Bammer
July 27, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
Pointman,
I really don’t want to extend the ADD talk, since this is a baseball (mostly) blog. But I couldn’t walk away from your observation about ADD “spasms.”
Folks with ADD don’t have spasms anymore than the rest of the population. What they do have is more forthrightness than the rest of the population. Their candor and lack of social skills often alienate them from folks.
You don’t have to have ADD to offer a heartfelt comment, but you’re more likely to hear heartfelt comments from a person with ADD.
By Head Coach
July 27, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
A new blog, yes !
By Stanford
July 27, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
Lew, what’s this “reality” crap?! We’re right where we should be with good bats, mediocre starting pitching and a bad bullpen! But we can still HOPE, can’t we?
SF and AZ lost, so if Houston can beat Cincy tonight all we lose today is an opportunity, not any ground on the leaders. Kind of shows how “strong” this wildcard field is, doesn’t it?
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this
Hey, I teach high school so I see about 150 cases of ADD a day.
By die hard braves fan
July 27, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this
what’s ADD got to do with baseball?
all u gotta do add 1 to 1 and makes two that gotta go!
1 LAME 2B MILES 1 SORRY SOB IN SOSA
= 2 SORRY PLAYERS THAT GOT TO GET TRADES ASAP!
1+1=2 new players= WORLD SERIES CHAMP 2006!!!
By KC
July 27, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this
LEW:
There are holes… no doubt. But are we two starters and two relievers away from having a chance?
At winning a World Series… maybe so.
At winning the Wild Card… NO WAY. We’re not that far from being the favorites in that category.
Lew, me thinks you’re giving too much credit to the rest of the teams in this Wild Card chase. Come on man, we don’t live in a perfect baseball world and there are no perfect teams (especially in the NL wild card picture).
The Braves are far from perfect and will still be far from perfect even if they pick up a Proctor or a Linebrink. However, we will be significantly less imperfect than the Reds, Giants, D-Backs, Astros, Dodgers, Brewers, Rockies, and others.
Our offense isn’t perfect, but it’s still as good as any in the NL.
Though our rotation is far from perfect. However, regardless of what we get out of Huddy, we’ve still got 2 top-of-the-rotation starters (Smoltz and Ramirez) on this team, and that’s as much as any NL team can say.
Sure C. James is inexperienced, but can you name a 4th starter in the NL you like better? And Davies seems to be doing well, and should return soon. I don’t expect greatness out of him right now, but I’m sure he’ll be an improvement over Shiell.
If we can add one more solid arm, our bullpen will actually be pretty good. Yates gave up a couple of runs the other day, but he’s been throwing the ball really well. Paronto continues to look good, and McBride is lights-out against left-handed hitters.
Add a solid setup man to go with our solid closer, and the pen will be in better shape than most.
Bottom line: Yes, we are one reliever away from a wild card berth.
By Knockahoma
July 27, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this
Welcome Home Braves! Why can’t you win here?
This team plays terrible at home. Any thoughts as to why? My only idea is maybe they get too relaxed at home.
By Pointman
July 27, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this
You may need to re-read my comment Bammer. I wasn’t trying to say ADD people have “spasms”…my comment is about overreaction to LaRoche’s condition and labelling anything he does as ADD influenced. Anyway…enough. Back to baseball, as you say.
By KC
July 27, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this
ByeByeBraves:
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just when we I thought I had scored a couple of points on you Mets fans with that poetic word picture of Glavine’s October chokefests, you go hit me with something completely unexpected…
A reference to the Braves 14 year post-season run with only 1 World Series. Wheh… boy, I gotta tell you, I did not see that one coming. You are one quick witted individual!
2 points for ByeByeBraves!!
Okay, point taken there. You’re absolutely right. The Braves have only won 1 World Series in the last 10 years as compared to the Mets over that period of time who have won…
By The Grinch
July 27, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this
I, too have ADD. I didn’t realize I was forthright and honest; maybe that’s why I get into so many arguments here. I’m sorry, what was it you were all saying? :-)
By Choppin Bob
July 27, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this
kc: he still wont get it, no matter how much you simplify it.
knockahoma: the reason why the braves suck at home is that the fans have no spirit. 1 of every 100 people there are wearing team colors. that is not encouraging to players like frenchy and mccann that were going there 10 years ago supporting their team. the fans are lame.
By Head Coach
July 27, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this
Hey , lets just go back to the Padres and offer Betemit and Langerhans for Linebrink and Roberts. That gives us the leadoff hitter we need and the veteran arm in the bullpen. The Padres get the third baseman they want and an outfielder to replace Roberts and its a square up fair trade. Giles can go back to the eight hole and we can hope Chipper stays healthy. Then again if we look this bad against the Mets and get swept or lose two out of three , Schuerholz just might lose patience with this team , and on monday morning start selling a couple of big contracts. Folks , its way too late in the season for the nonsense we saw today. five runners left in scoring position , seven strikeouts , two errors and one passed ball , thats not good to see this late in the season.
By The Grinch
July 27, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this
Glass half full, I feel for you, brother. Man, I wouldn’t teach high school now unless I was in Wyoming or somewhere. Hopefully they let you pack a piece! Head Coach, I sent you an apology about 10 or 10:30am on the previous blog. I don’t expect you to respond to it; just wanted you to know it was out there. Dissapointing game today; but this team tends to beat teams it shouldn’t just as much as lose to teams it should beat, so have hope. Got to run in a few; going to a play tonight.
By KC
July 27, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this
Mikey:
“All the Mets have to do is win ONE world series to match what the illustrious bravos did in their 14 years of divisional dominance. Just ONE title. Now who on this board thinnks that the mets with the way the team is structured now wont do better than that?”
POST-SEASON SINCE 2000:
Pedro Martinez: 4.41 ERA
Tom Glavine: 7.20 ERA
Steve Trachsel: Virtually no post-season experience / 5.14 ERA this season.
Mikey, GOD doesn’t think the Mets can win a World Series the way your team is structured now. That’s why He constructed the laws of the universe in such a way that when the baseball hits the fat part of the bat, it travels a long way.
By baby seal
July 27, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this
Bammer, hear, hear!! Well said.
Pointman, you owe an apology to a lot of people. Then you should get down on your knees and give sincere and heart-felt thanks that you do not live daily with any of those afflictions. I’ve had to watch my daughter struggle daily with things you never give a thought about doing. You can dog me about a lot of things; don’t ever presume to demean my child or a child of others. Shame on you, sir!
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this
I mis-posted that last under the wrong name. I don’t see how any of you post under several different monikers. But the sentiment is not lessened regardless!
By KC
July 27, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this
Correction: meant to say… “that’s because He constructed the laws of the universe…”
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this
Hey KC, stats also say that the Braves should be better than .500. yet thats not the case. Stats also said your team should have won more than one world title in 14 playoff appearances. How did that turn out? Stats can sure predict alot huh?
By The GM
July 27, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this
We are at least 1 starter and 1 reliever away from running away with the Wild Card. I think we can win it with what we have but it’ll be much easier if we acquire either/or. And definitely if we get both!
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this
Cute comments from the Mets fans. How are those Cubs doing? They’re a really tough team. The Braves could only manage 8 home runs off of them in one game. I wish we could have caught them on a bad day…
By Snowball's Chance
July 27, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this
Kevin Gunderson ,who was the best closer in college BB spent one inning with Danville of the rookie league and then moved on to Rome in Class A. He is meeting a few Atlanta Braves who are on rehab duty there. He is a small lefty with a big heart.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this
GM, I with ya on the 5th starter. When Davies comes back, try him in long relief for the rest of the year. Perhaps then Sosa and Villarreal will not appear in any close game.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this
Hey TennesseePaula I will tell you how those cubs are doing: They are not in a playoff spot now and under .500. Remind you of any teams you know?
By Charleston Brave
July 27, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this
Why do new/young pitchers always seem to have our number!?! Can we get better scouting reports on these guys? What’s TP’s game plan? … Good Luck, get a hit.
If you don’t know them, look them up. Do some research. Everyone on this blog does it.
Maybe I don’t know what I’m talking about. I want to see some heat on those Muts. I know they’d fold with some pressure.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:02 PM | Link to this
Hey TennesseePaula I will tell you how those cubs are doing: They are not in a playoff spot now and under .500. Remind you of any teams you know?
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this
Gunderson might be good in the pen in 07 or 08. I don’t wanna rush another guy out of college to the majors and f*** up his head.
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this
Right now our advance scouts are busy looking for relief pitchers and utility players.
By KneeJerk
July 27, 2006 05:05 PM | Link to this
Choppin Bob, are you serious? Team spirit by the fans cost us games. That’s why we can’t hit sliders or make routine plays?
By Choppin Bob
July 27, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this
KJ: no, but it seems there is more fan support on the road then at the ted. who likes to play at home where the crowd is not into the game. there is no home field advantage with the 10th man at the ted.
By KC
July 27, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this
Mikey:
The Mets aren’t going to win a World Series with this pitching. Give it up.
Maybe next year if you guys can sign a Jason Schmidt or something like that, and trade for one more decent starter to go with him… but not this year. Not unless there’s a ground-shaking trade in the works for a big-time pitcher. Sorry man.
You’re basically say “How do you know the Mets won’t pull it off?!” And you keep referencing the last 14 years…
THAT’S HOW I KNOW!
When you have pitchers that can’t translate their regular season success to the post-season, you don’t win a World Series. It’s that simple.
If we had one more Smoltz and one less Glavine all those years, we’d have 4-5 championships right now.
Go get Schmidt and talk to me next year.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this
Braves did very well this series. Great way to prep up for the Champs coming in town.
By The Grinch
July 27, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this
Thanks for clearing that up, Carolina Lady; I was nervous Baby Seal was doing things Jimmy Smith might not be aware nor approve of! Later, all; I’ll check back around 11-ish.
By Paul Hamilton
July 27, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this
You gotta love Mets fans, God bless them. They are the unwanted step child in New York and they finally get a team they can cheer for a change. Lets see realignment was in what 94’ so they had to endure finishing behind the Bravos every year since then. Enjoy the ride while it lasts, Glavine is 40 and Pedro is what 35 going on 50.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this
Hey KC who was the world series MVP in your lone title year? Hmmmm I wonder who that could have been? Where is he now? Hmmmm. Need a hint?
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this
DOB do you agree with me that the Marlins starting rotation (and bullpen) are better than ours right now?
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this
Are the Dodgers looking to move anyone?
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this
Mikey: Good point. Thanks for the vote of confidence, it does remind me a little of the Braves… So Cubs are about equal to the Braves. Mets… well let’s see, I forgot. How did the Mets do in Chicago against a team that resembles the Braves? It’s a tough one, I’ll let you think on it for a while.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this
Hey Paula Hamilton, the Mets are the class of the NL and the best team in NY right now. Maybe you have heard of Mike Pelfrey and John Maine. They are young and both will be aces in short time. Unlike the bravos, we wont bring in an ex-met whose claim to fame was lighting matches under peoples shoes. We lead the league in runs scored and we lead the league in ERA. That means we score more than anyone and that we give up less runs than anyone. You should sit back and enjoy this weekend. You will get an upclose look at a real team.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this
Well if it were up to you TennesseePaul the playoff berths would be decided by who did better against the cubs. The mets didnt need to play hard against the cubs. The bravos however need any win they can get since they are SUB .500 right now. Hope your starters are able to pitch complete games because once we get that bullpen door open, the beating will only intensify.
By Pointman
July 27, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this
Hey a-h baby seal, MY son has ADD too, so don’t preach to me, you reactionary fool. READ what I’ve written closely. I’M TALKING ABOUT MISGUIDED PERCEPTIONS OF PEOPLE WITH ADD. I”M ON YOUR SIDE!!!!!! I’m saying that some people see LaRoche as completely held prisoner by the condition, that any comment, action or thought he makes is overwhelmingly influenced by ADD. It IS a struggle, and it causes daily, if not hourly, determination on the part of the person and the family BUT IT ISN’T A REASON TO STEREOTYPE SOMEONE as a sharp tongued twit who can’t help himself.
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this
I dont see why ADD even needs to be brought up here at all. Lets just get down to the truth here. Adam larouche just isnt that good.
By shawn
July 27, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this
abandon ship..abandon ship why is everyone so in a hurry to see Davies comeback. He was stinking it up and over two years has really not even made a spot as a fith starter. Trade Chipper, Andruw, Giles (3.85mill is a BIG salary DOB?), Smoltz, Hudson, Thompson, Sosa, Pratt, …..bring up the kids. Again I will say are we really fighting to play 167 games instead of 162? Stupid, stupid, stupid! Free the money up for next year!!!!If the all the teams kicking our a*s in the standings can get more wins without spending what we spend then surely we can too. Get a grip on reality and actually plan for next year for once. You don’t want to trade our upcoming middle infielders? Then bring them up and trade Renteria too. Get some speed, decent starting pitching to build around Ramirez and James. For god’s sakes if we can’t beat the Marlins 2 out of three then who are we trying to kid………
By Chop Chop
July 27, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this
Mikey,
The sad thing is that Glavine was the World Series MVP in 1995, which was eleven seasons ago. He was in the prime of his career back then. The man is running on fumes now, which is understandable for a guy who’s thrown nearly 4100 innings (not including 201 innings in the postseason).
I wouldn’t trust Glavine at all in the postseason. The guy just has too much mileage on his arm, and when you couple that with the fact that he’s not an overpowering guy and has to pitch to contact, that makes it tough when he consistently faces tougher opposition.
Let’s have a comparison here:
Pitcher A - Games: 22 Games Started: 22 Wins: 11 Losses: 4 Complete Games: 0 Shutouts: 0 Innings Pitched: 136.2 Hits: 141 Runs: 64 Earned Runs: 56 Homers Allowed: 18 Walks: 45 Strikeouts: 88 ERA: 3.69 WHIP: 1.36 BAA: .271
Pitcher B: Games: 22 Games Started: 22 Wins: 8 Losses: 8 Complete Games: 2 Shutouts: 1 Innings Pitched: 136.2 Hits: 148 Runs: 82 Earned Runs: 74 Homers Allowed: 13 Walks: 50 Strikeouts: 85 ERA: 4.87 WHIP: 1.45 BAA: .271
Okay. Pitcher A is Glavine. Pitcher B is Tim Hudson. Look at how similar those numbers are. As DOB stated, Hudson’s pitching like a 4th or 5th starter. The only big difference between these two guys is the number of runs they’ve allowed. Glavine’s ERA has slowly been creeping up over his last six starts and is averaging less than six innings a start during that time period, which is an indication that he’s tiring. Again, that’s understandable, but the Mets need him to do better than that if they want to go far in the playoffs.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this
Lew, methinks that maybe it’s time that you reevaluated the Marlins … in many respects, they appear to me to the best we’ve seen in quite some time … the pitching staff reminds me of our boys as we were first realizing that we had something special … don’t be surprised if they’re our primary competition for the Wild Card.
I’ll be back when the air freshens a bit, but before I go …
Boo
Holding players up to ridicule, whether in the stands or on the Blog is distasteful to me and somehow seems like poor sportsmanship … I truly wish that folks would first consider just how it’s perceived by others, and what it would be like if the shoe were on the other foot, before they so do … the last time I checked, we’re running short on Listerine and already have more than our share of foot problems.
Double Boo
It would probably benefit all to ponder the utility of defaming those visiting or residing in our neighboorhood, regardless of cause … it’s much ado about nothing; that’s for sure … but we don’t take kindly to it around here because of the associated unpleasent odiferousness. For those so inclined who are looking for acceptance and recognition, might I suggest the widow Shelley’s site as I understand she’s looking for a select few folks who might be compatible with some of her friends.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this
The mets didnt need to play hard against the cubs
Let me get this straight… Not playing hard is a point of pride for the Mets and their fans? They’re proud of that?
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this
Mikey, he was World Series MVP in 1995, 1995! Do you know that there was no such thing as the internet the last time Glavine was good in the postseason?
By KC
July 27, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this
Mikey:
Get real. You’re talking about Glavine in his prime. He’s 40 years old now dude. And I say again, his post-season ERA since 2000 is over 7.00!!!
Look all Bravado aside; the Mets have a very good team. But the truth is, you just don’t have the pitching right now to get it down.
Hey, you finally spanked the Braves for the division title. That’s going to have to be enough satisfaction for one year, because Martinez, Glavine, and Trachsel aren’t going to lead you to a WS victory.
Like I said… sign Jason Schmidt this winter (I think he’s a free agent). Trade for a decent 4th starter, and talk to me next year.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this
DonC: Now that isn’t entirely true. I heard Al Gore invented the Net in the 80’s.
By Dr. Jay
July 27, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this
We’ll see where LaRoche stands at the end of the year, but if you can still say - after the last few weeks - that LaRoche “just isn’t that good”, then you simply haven’t been watching the same games I have. Maybe you don’t like his demeanor, or his swing, or the look on his face…but jeez, you can’t play much better than he has overall lately.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this
And Mikey it doesn’t matter who wins the National League this year (and probably for the next 3-4 years at least) cuz you know as well as I do that the National League is completely outclassed right now. There are at least 4 teams in the AL better than the Muts and as many as 8. So in the end, whatever the Muts do in the NL this year won’t matter cuz they’ll be lucky to win 1 game if they get to the World Series. So go away now, go talk about the Muts on one of their blogs…
By Mikey
July 27, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this
Glavine is a pitcher reborn now. Hudson im sure will pitch his heart out but not to worry. Im sure he has a nice tv set to watch the mets advance in the playoffs.
And who dares to talk about pride. the Mets are nearly 20 GAMES over .500. Lets see who is proud when Turner Field becomes Shea Stadium South again with all the Met fans cheering the NL East leaders on this weekend.
By Dr. Jay
July 27, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this
Let’s face it…no one in the NL is likely to beat the Tigers, Twins, Red Sox, or the White Sox in the WS, even if they play every game at the NL park. Sorry Mutt fans, no ring for you this year.
By shawn
July 27, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this
Mets fans take whatever comfort in our misfortune but you can only wish that the last 14 years you were half as good. You haven’t won yet even though odds look good for you right now. As for World Series champs….fuget it. And nest year the bones of Glavine, LaDuca, Floyd, Martinez, and Delgado creak even more. Face it your winning because the rest of the N.L. sucks. How many times did the Braves win with the second best team in the league was in their own division. Yes you are in first. How does it feel since it was the first time since the Reagan administration?
By Lew
July 27, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this
Journalist Bob-You misunderstood. I was saying the Marlins are so good that our chances at the postseason are greatly diminished because of them. Don-Yes they are better than us right now. Shawn-As far as Davies goes, you have to remember that Glavine, Maddux (in Chicago) and Smoltz all took their lumps before they got HOF caliber. I think Davies, Horacio, and James will all be very good pitchers. Hardly anyone comes up and pulls a Dwight Gooden or Dontrelle and excels immediately. Bob-and anyone else interested in my art, send your email to lewhartman@webtv.net and all will be sent on Saturday. I’ve got some nice Braves art I think you will like.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 06:06 PM | Link to this
And who dares to talk about pride
Well, you for starters. How are those Cubs doing? They’re a real pride booster aren’t they?
By KC
July 27, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this
Mikey:
I’m not just exchanging jabs with you man… I’m serious, the Mets have a good team, but you’re fooling yourself about their pitching man.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 06:10 PM | Link to this
Hey, what are the pitching matchups for this weekend? Anyone?
By shawn
July 27, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this
I understand Avery, Smoltz, Glavine, and Maddux took their lumps….but on BAD teams. I can’t compare that to the teams that Davies has played on….he is not a 1,2,3,or even 4. He is a #5 starter and has shown poor results even without the pressure. Don’t get me wrong I think James and Ramirez will be fine its just the hype around Davies is a little misguided I think. Again my big thought is clear the roster of the high priced guys….you know the saying we missed the playoffs with them , we can miss it without them.
By jason
July 27, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this
I wish we would just retool like the Marlins did. We have a bigger budget than they have, so we can buy better players than they can. We could trade Andruw to the Angels for Santana and a couple prospects. Kendrick and Saunders maybe? We could trade Chipper for Thomas Diamond. We could trade Hudson maybe for Jonathan Broxton and Andy LaRoche… And Smoltz could go anywhere for a number one prospect.
By Lew
July 27, 2006 06:19 PM | Link to this
Shawn-I see your point about the hype and pretty much agree with you. I was afraid the same hype would attach to James and hinder his development, also. You mention the original baby Braves getting lumped on bad teams. This is also true, but I’m not sure you can really say Davies had the luck to be on good teams. I think we are now seeing that last year was really overachievment. As far as this season, when Davies was still in the rotation, the Braves were playing very poorly, so your analogy is maybe a little off. No big thing, though. I guarantee he will be in the rotation when he returns from the DL and likely next year also. Time, I suppose, will tell.
By shawn
July 27, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this
I agree Jason, we could get top quality talent AND reduce the payroll to in turn be able to significantly upgrade during the offseason. Zito? Soriano?Lee? So what you would do is give away salary for upper level prospects or major league talent. Then used that money to buy some top quality guys that are already younger than what we currently have. I will say this as well 14 years of playoff games has added a year or two to some of these guys we have. They have played a lot of innings and honestly just look tired and worn down. Time to refresh. Jason nailed it on the head
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this
Here are the teams in the AL that are FOR SURE better than any team in the NL: 1)Tigers 2)White Sox 3)Red Sox 4)Twins…. And now teams in the AL that would probably be the favorite for the NL crown this year: 1)Yankees 2)Blue Jays 3)Angels….. And finally, the teams in the AL who would be the favorite for the NL wild card/west division: 1)A’s 2)Indians 3)Rangers… Bottom line, THE NATIONAL LEAGUE SUCKS!!!
By ChrisinPA
July 27, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this
DOB
tell me this doesn’t make sense. Langerhans to the Astros, Tavares to the Cubs and Pierre to the Braves. PERFECT!!
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this
The Braves certainly do better when Davies starts compared to Schiel, Cormier, and Smith. None of those guys have pitched in games the Braves won. The fifth spot is a guaranteed loss right now. Davies tilts it more to the win column than any other option we have. And Davies does have his work cut out for him if he is going to be a star. Give him time.
By shawn
July 27, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this
Doesn’t make sense for the Astros
By shawn
July 27, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this
Doesn’t make sense for the Astros
how about Hudson and Chipper for A-Rod
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 06:32 PM | Link to this
Jason you are in freakin’ dreamland. You’re not serious about those fantasy trades are you? There are so many ridiculous trade proposals in those few sentences I don’t even know where to start…
By Lew
July 27, 2006 06:37 PM | Link to this
Pierre can’t play defense as good as Langerhans and certainly can’t throw at all. The only problem with trading Chipper, Andruw and Smoltz is that you can’t without their pweremission. Chipper and Smoltz are 10-5 players and Andruw will be in a couple weeks. Won’t happen. Trade Giles and Hudson and you will have $11 million next year. With the almost certain departures of Thomson, Reitsma, Sosa and Jordan frees up another $10.5 million. Would $21.5 million take care of our needs. Ya think.
By Lew
July 27, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this
Excuse me, that’s permission.
By DonCoburleone
July 27, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this
It is frustrating to lose 2 of 3 to start the homestand like the Braves just did, but, the Marlins are playing really good baseball lately(Best record in NL over last 2 months). So, as frustrating as it is (and my dog is okay DOB), I still think the Braves will be alright. Just take 2 of 3 from the Muts and all will be well…(As you can tell DOB, I’ve calmed down a bit).
By Chief Noc-A-Homa
July 27, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this
There’s only two ways ANYBODY on this sorry Braves team will be going to the wild-card round of the National League playoffs: 1) Buy a ticket; or 2) Get traded to the Reds before Sept. 1.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 07:01 PM | Link to this
jeez, if I see Juan freakin’ Pierre or Dave freakin’ Roberts mentioned one more time, I am just…going…to…HURL! Please! Get a GRIP!
By Tonight on TBS
July 27, 2006 07:05 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox (Charles Durning) is manager of the Atlanta Braves baseball team. After his team is eliminated from the wild card race, he loses his temper and is kicked out of the house by his wife. Despondent, he contemplates killing himself but is saved by baseball reporter Dave O’Brien (Jim Carrey). With nowhere else to go, Bobby is urged by Dave to move in with him, at least for a while. The only problem is that Dave is a neat-freak who listens to alt-country-rock (loud), whereas Bobby is slovenly, has fourteen dogs and constantly plays the banjo. Much hilarity ensues. Also starring Cheech Marin (as Pat Corrales), Bill Pullman (as Roger McDowell), and Diane Lane (as O’Brien’s lovely ex-wife). Special appearance by Jimmy Smith (as himself).
By TorreTorreTorre
July 27, 2006 07:12 PM | Link to this
NO WAY Dave’s ex can match Diane Lane. Exes only get gorgeous AFTER they dump you, anyway. Dave’s suffering from withdrawl vision.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this
Diane Lane would never have let DOB leave her (I refuse to think DOB got “dumped”). She’s a huge baseball fan, and DOB would have regaled here with all make and manner of inside scoop. She would have been eternally dreamy-eyed at just the thought of DOB. Great casting with Jim Carrey, BTW. You’re welcome, DOB, I was just in the mood for a little sycophancy.
By Mac
July 27, 2006 07:19 PM | Link to this
Dave,if the Yankees turn down Betemit for a setup guy like Proctor then they are more stupid than some of our fans think our folks are. Betemit would thrive in NY especially with that little league fence out in right field. He also would bolster their’s and anybody else’s bench come playoff time. If the Braves get off their dead butts and don’t play anymore giveaway games like they did today then when they get into the playoffs a guy like Betemit would give them something they have sorely lacked in the playoffs over the last few years a big dependable bat off the bench. I know we need a setup man but I’d trade minor leaguers before I’d let a guy like Betemit go. We can get the deal done with minor leaguers is we wanted to.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 07:23 PM | Link to this
10 Paul, you’re not being exactly fair to the mad scientists who first constructed the “net” and either caught or created Junior. Never cared too much for little Al but his daddy was certainly a spellbinding speaker; a teller of tales with few equals.
I’m sensing a lot of negative vibes after today’s loss … no brews for you unless you to bring everyone to their senses and restore order before the entire team is traded!
Foolishness: Did I see John throw a “screwball” last night? Phil Niekro is about the only pitcher I ever saw whose stuff was more important than his location.
By TorreTorreTorre
July 27, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this
Sycophancy is what this blog runs on. Geez, people, DOB’s just a working stiff like the rest of us. You’d think he was Roger Angell or Red Smith the way you bootlicks blather adoringly about him.
I have a great title for this blog. Sums up the unrealistic expectations of Braves fans everywhere for 2006: “Field of Pipe Dreams.”
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this
Torre, good line, “bootlicks” and “blather” in the same sentence, alliteration and everything. Guess my attempt at humor missed the mark with you, huh, bubba? I apologize, I’ll rein in my keen wit next time I see your name being posted.
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this
TorreTorreTorre (nice logon by the way, I loved that movie Tora! Tora! Tora! as a kid): I can honestly say that my ex-wife was absolutely gorgeous. As Tom Glavine and I agreed, with both married “over our skis.” Fortunately for him, he’s kept his (No. 2, I believe, but who’s counting. I’ll gladly take such a No. 2 … I wonder if a $12 mill or so salary would help me? Humm…)
Shawn _ Giles’ $3.85 mill salary this year not the big one I’m referring to; his $5 mill or so salary next year (arbitration again) is the one that’s tough for some teams to swallow, given his production this year. They’d have to take leap of faith that he’ll return to his previous form. He’s hit well for most of two months, by the way, and the play he made today behind first base was sensational. Sorry to say, but Betemit could only dream of getting that far over to make that play. Too big to do it. Most other second baseman couldn’t make it either, though.
EWARE _ Neil Casal is opening for Ryan Adams, and Casal is definitely worth arriving early for. He was lead singer of Beechwood Sparks, excellent band that didn’t get much attention.
DonC _ Yes, Marlins rotation is better, right now, at this moment, than Braves.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this
I suppose it’s true that the most honorable Scoots can be moody at times, but with all the nice, sincere compliments that he’s bestowed on me, I must strongly denounce anyone who dares suggest that he is a sycophant … whatever in the world that is.
By TorreTorreTorre
July 27, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Diane Lane gorgeous I’m betting she was not.
No one in the real world is.
You’ll get over her someday. Then she won’t look so hot anymore.
Trust me. I know. I understand.
By zimo z.
July 27, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this
A sycophant is a (p)sycho(tic) (ele)phant.
I believ one recently killed a trainer in Tennessee.
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this
EWARE, I just realized I screwed up on Neal Casal. He wasn’t in Beechwood Sparks. Don’t know why I was thinking he was. Music is a little similar though, great Americana stuff, sort of Jayhawks/old Wilco vibe. You’ll love him.
Again, sorry to Casal and/or the Beechwood Sparks for the confusion. I know all of you are regulars here on the Braves and The Man In Black blog.
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this
TTT, Diane Lane truly is gorgeous, still.
Later, folks. Gotta drive home.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this
Bob, thanks, but no need for defense of the scoots. My mellow cannot be harshed, my friend. While I may get annoyed, irritated, or even irked, I never get angry. And certainly not because one of my attempts at humor failed in its mission. Torre has a right to express and digress to his heart’s content, as do we all. Blog is good (at least this one, despite or because of whatever reverence and adoration is shown DOB, that’s not my call!!).
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this
mellow my harsh … god, i love that.
ok, now i’m truly leaving this pressbox. later
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this
Scoots, that was as much in my own self defense as yours … but now that I see his comments, I’m really confused … I’m satisfied that my definition of “on what the blog runs” is a mite different from others, but to suggest private agendas are the driving force is difficult for me to imagine … maybe our definitions of sycophant differ too.
By David O'Brien
July 27, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this
see, i’ve been here entirely too long. brain fried. i just wrote mellow my harsh instead of harsh my mellow.
but mellow my harsh is kinda cool, too, now that i look at it again.
mellow my harsh, harsh my mellow. whatever. see ya.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this
Scoots, one last note … I’m amazed at how often people take me seriously when I’m attempting humor. I’ve noticed that a lot of folks use “LOL” a lot on this Blog. At first I couldn’t figure that out … I now believe they use it like a cue card to tell the audience when to laugh … you might try using that the next time you choose to be humorous.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this
Well, I guess if telling a good neighbor I enjoy his company makes me a sycophant, I plead guilty. I consider Dave, and many others, a “good neighbor” on this blog, and I don’t mind expressing that. I don’t know if DOB is the next incarnation of Red Smith, Grantland Rice, or Homer Simpson, and, in this context, that matters not a whit. It’s not his journalistic excellence we seek in this venue, it’s inside skinny, George Jones, and his occasional raucous comment in response to our not-so-occasional absurdities. Man, what else could you want???
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 08:31 PM | Link to this
Well said neighbor … and it belabors the obvious to say that you were indeed quite humorous.
Say goodnight, Torre …
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this
and just where is Carolina Lady tonight? I’m in such a good mood, I desire a little genteel Southern conversation, some “la galanterie”, if you will. Speak!
By baby seal
July 27, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this
baby seal wishes to report to jimmy smith his safe arrival at carolina lady’s home…
baby seal is very glad to see carolina lady at last…very long journey and little seal admits to being afraid while traveling alone…carolina lady loves baby seal…
lots of water….big ocean that has no ice bergs….many excellent fish….baby seal will not go hungry…
why did jimmy smith tell carolina lady about cod fish oil??? carolina lady bought cod fish since they are not native to these waters…went to vet to identify cod fish’s liver…tried to squeeze out oil….not pretty….smelled even worse…baby seal and carolina lady agreed that bottled stuff will be perfectly acceptable and will visit drug store tomorrow.
baby seal is very tired and will soon retire to his room for a long sleep…tomorrow will be a very busy day.
baby seal misses parent jimmy smith very much…
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 08:51 PM | Link to this
Hey, Bob, check it out…LOL, LMAO, and my all-time favorite, ROTFLMAO. I got the lingo, bro, now for opportunity!
By Lou Seal
July 27, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this
Baby Seal:
Come out to AT&T Park in San Francisco sometime. You can be the junior team mascot.
You’ll have fun. We can swim in McCovey cove, watch movies (Seventh Seal, Navy Seals, Sammy the Way Out Seal) and listen to music (Grey Seal by Elton John).
Lou Seal.
By Lou Seal
July 27, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this
Oh - I also have CD’s by Seal and Seals and Croft!
So, what do you say?
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this
Hey, Scoots! You must be in fine form this evening! :-)) Things are finally quiet here and I think I’ll be snoozin’ before long myself. Thunderstorms abound this evening; sound and light show!
By Cleanuphitter16
July 27, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this
The point, NYCMetsFan, was that in your first post you commented on a single, recent series with the Marlins as proof that ATL can’t beat NY. So, we brought up NY’s recent series loss at the hands of the woeful Cubbies in order to invalidate your simplistic claim. Since that was apparently too valid of a response, you proceeded to bring up the entire season’s numbers, which, clearly, favor the Mets.
In otherwords, because you only used a single 3-game series with FL to try and make us feel bad, you should have expected to have the Cubbies series thrown back in your face as a response. All clear? Good.
You may now proceed to boast about the Mets good 3 months of baseball and we will counter with our 14 years of good baseball, and this delightful circular “debate” will continue on its merry course.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 09:13 PM | Link to this
my dear, you are absolutely correct, I’m in a fettle so fine, it’s too good for human consumption. Weather kept me in, though, so I’m inflicting on the blog instead of the town. And you’re feeling how? R&R progressing apace, and so forth?
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this
Good days and then some of the others….I had no clue that this recovery would take so long. I usually pop right back up, but the docs were right, I guess. Don’t like it one bit, though! 9-something at night and I’m ready to turn in! Who woulda thunk it? :-))
It tickles me to see you feeling so good and being happy! Bet the heat was awful up there today. Heat index was in the triple digits here, but there was some air stirring from off the water. Can’t wait for October and low humidity!
By Lew
July 27, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
Lou Seal-Isn’t that BB King’s guitar? Tora Tora is a pretty good rock band, too. Although DOB will probably castigate me for me plebian musical choices.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this
Braves nation we have two questions before us. The first is what do we need more a reliever or another starter. The second question is would a leadoff hitter help this team.
IMO the answer to the first question is both, but if we have to choose one I would say a starter. My reasoning is that we another starter who is capable of giving 7 innings plus every outing. That would minimize the use of the bullpen. It has to be someone who is a quality starter who doesn’t get us in a hole early and give up homeruns to guys hitting .212. Schiell can’t start another game. Don’t give me the crap about how he pitched okay. For the second straight start he got us in a hole in the early stages of the game. And, with an offense that tends to be aggressive that is not good. My suggestions for that starter would include Armas, Kip Wells, or Rodrigo Lopez. I really don’t want to see Thomson go back into the rotation and Davies won’t be ready for another 4 weeks.
Now, as for the leadoff hitter. Everyone keeps saying its not important. The offense scores enough runs. I respectfully totally disagree. Yes, the offense can score runs but on days like today when you face a pitcher who is on his game a good leadoff hitter with speed offsets that. When the pitches aren’t there to drive, you need someone who can lay down a bunt or take a walk or slap at the ball for a hit. Then once they get on , they can steal a base and manufacture a run. A quality leadoff hitter makes this offense balanced. I love our offense but its flawed. And its flaw is that if they are not cranking out 3 or 4 homeruns they aren’t scoring.
Look at the Yankees. They finally realized that and got Johnny Damon. If you look at the truly successful teams this year almost all of them have the same thing in common: a good leadoff hitter. Honestly, where would the Mets be without Jose Reyes. How about the Red Sox with Kevin Youkilis. The Cards have Eckstein. The Reds have Ryan Freel. The Padres have Dave Roberts. The Tigers have Gunderson. The White Sox have Podsednik. The Blue Jays have Rios.
Leadoff hitters are greatly important. They are the tablesetters. What’s easier? Slapping at a ball getting a bloop single and stealing a base or hitting the home run. Its small ball, fool! That is what wins games. Speed never slumps and it can’t be outpitched. Wouldn’t it be nice to have that guy that can slap the ball into the gap and turn a leadoff double into a leadoff triple. Its a lot easier to get the run home at 3B with no one out than at 2B with no one out.
Fact is the Braves need both and I believe they can get both. Offer the Padres Betemit and Langerhans along with a minor leaguer for Roberts and Linebrink. Then give the Orioles a call and offer another prospect and maybe Thomson for Conine and Lopez. Yes, I know Thomson is hurt but he is coming off the DL in a couple of weeks and in the world of the AL East will come rather cheap next year.
And even if we can’t get a reliever, starter, and leadoff hitter we have to get two of the three. When this offense faces inferior pitching they go nuts but when facing good pitching they bog down. I look for the offense to begin feasting again. Pedro tomorrow night is a 50/50 proposition but Trachsel and Glavine the following two games should be easy pickings and the next two series against the Pirates and Reds should be like Ron Jeremy in a brothel.
The Braves faced good pitching the last three games and didn’t know how to handle it. Sometimes that great pitching is off but more often than not its on and thats when you need that ONE guy who can lay down a bunt or take a walk and start stealing bases and breaking up double plays.
If this team wants to go to the playoffs, we must get another good starter and find someone who can run and get n base consistently. I love Giles but he ain’t doing it.
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this
Hey, Lew! How’s your eye today?
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this
How about this trade? If JS could work out a deal for Conine, we could trade Betemit to the Red Sox for Tavarez and Crisp. I know Cocoa has struggled but it could be another Renteria case where for whatever reason he isn’t comfortable and coming to Atlanta could rejuvenate him. Tavarez is a good setup guy who has done it before and done it with success. He was terrific with the Cards a couple of years ago.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this
you bet, we had mondo heat today, but, as you know, a Southern gentleman does not perspire even in the most wicked heat. It simply won’t do. (LOL, Bob) As for you, I know how disgusting it is to feel small and wee when you’re used to otherwise. Don’t worry, it hasn’t dimmed your blog sparkle at all.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this
Scoots, be patient my friend … all good things come to those who wait … except for cub fans! … and those who think that the Big Bad Wolf is going to give advance warning by revealing his true identity.
Art Linkletter had some wonderful insights. I’ve never seen “ROTF” but I did take ROTC … Roll on the floor?
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this
Scoots, you are a prize! lol I haven’t felt very sparkly so I appreciate that very much! :-)))
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this
robert, I’m sure guys like Juan Pierre are glad to know that “speed never slumps and can’t be outpitched”. And Kevin Youkilis has stolen how many bases?
By Lew
July 27, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this
Howdy ma’am. My fettle may not be as fine as Scoots, but I’m doing well. My right eye has no white-only red. I look like something from a sci-fi film, but wasn’t about to be aa Mr. Universe nominee, anyway. Thanks for your concern. I told Bob earlier, send email adress to lewhartman@webtv.net and I’ll send art on Saturday. Lots of good Braves’ portraits. Robert, I thin we need two starters and a reliever. I’m very concerned that Smoltz may not hold up. The guy is the biggest gamer I’ve ever seen, but he is one wrong move from missing a month. We can’t really count on Davies til the end of August and Sciell isn’t the answer. I’m really beginning to wonder if we have the pitchers to make it to the wild card, much less beyond that. Hudson really needs to step up.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this
Bob, you bet, that’s it.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this
ncscoots, you’re right about Youklis. However, what is his OBP? And Pierre has the Furcal disease. He doesn’t take advantge of the tools God has given him. Bob Brenly is constantly lamenting about how Pierre doesn’t bunt enough.
Can anyone honestly tell me that we can’t find a better option the Giles or even Betemit at the leadoff position. Betemit is a great hitter but he does strikeout a lot and that is not good for a leadoff hitter.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this
Alright… Things aren’t looking good on my charts. I have no means to post them like hk, but I have them none the less. And right now, the way the figures are rolling out, it is very similar to the point right before our Swoon. So… I hope the Braves held a meeting today to prepare for the Mets. I’d like to see a sweep. No matter how bad this season turns out, or how good it turns out, I would like to see the Braves polish off these Mets like their the Royals.
So far this season we have out scored the Mets by 13 runs. We’ve out hit them, out slugged them and out pitched them. Every game we have lost has been by 1 run. Almost every game we have won has been by an average of 5 runs. We are down ont he series by only one game. Head to head, we have matched up really well. No reason for these guys to start slumping now.
Let’s do this Braves! I wanna see 100%! Apparently those Mets only give 50% or so these days. Let’s take advantage.
GO BRAVES
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this
Soccts, see … I told you the opportunity would present itself … but I see you also know that fortune smiles on those who make their own. Good evening, good blogging and pleasant dreams to you, The Lady and all those who don’t need cue cards to know I’m being sincere.
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this
Glad you’re on the mend, Lew! I’d love to see your art! Will write! :-)
By dadgum
July 27, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this
Hey Don C…..glad you enjoy that watered down version of baseball played in the American League. The National League is pure baseball the way it was invented and it is very interesting to watch the different moves a manager has to make since there is no DH. True some National League teams suck but not the league itself. Frankly it is a shame that two different brands of baseball exist within the league. I am actually quite surprised the American League hasn’t adopted colored baseballs. Overall - and everyone say it with me now on 3….1,2,3…THE DH SUCKS!!!!!
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this
Lew, it seems the blog DL is getting crowded, for sure, but you/Carolina Lady/Bob haven’t been put on the 60-day yet…you’re still on the 40-man, er, 40-person roster!
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this
Lew, you’re right. Smoltz and Hudson aren’t pitching as well as they should be. Horacio and Chucky have been studs but its a bit much to ask them to be the anchors. I read today that the Marlins would trade Willis if they are presented with a deal that would blow them away. Betemit and a prospect (perhaps Salty) could do it. I can’t believe anyone on here wouldn’t think trading Betemit for Willis would be worth it. Simply put if we got Willis we would run away with the wild card. If the Mets were to get Willis, they could win the WS.
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this
Good evening, Bob! Such delightful company makes a wonderful evening!
I don’t get Turner South here, but at the end of the broadcast last night, I saw an add for an upcoming program on which the Braves’ pychologist, Dr don’t-know-his-name, would tell how he talked to the Braves, what he said, etc. that started their resurgence. Did anyone see that program and what did he say?? Can we possibly hope that he’ll make another call? Like now!!
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this
Well roll on the floor and laugh out loud … I’ll be jiggered!
10 Paul, that’s more like it! Have one for me and stay safe!
Say Goodnight My Lady …
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this
robert, don’t know that I’d categorize a utility player and an A-ball prospect as a “blow me away” deal.
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this
I should have said, ‘at the end of the mlb broadcast of the game last night…’ sorry.
By Lew
July 27, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this
For Willis, it would be worth Betemit, Brayan Pena (who I think is going to be good) and almost anyone else in the minors they might like (just one, though). Howevewr, I think having Dontrelle as the anchor to their rotation is a big stadium selling point. I don’t like the idea of Zito, either before the trading deadlin or in the offseason. Mulder’s out, too. It makes you wonder what happened in Oakland. I think they burned their guys out. I’m not really sure who we should get and I’m not sure whether we should plan more for next year. I think we have too many holes to fill to go very far in the playoffs. Is another one and out going to be worth it in the long run?
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
How about this trade proposal. The White Sox have made no secret that they are looking for a starter. What if we offered them Hudson for either Garland or Garcia and either Igucci or Posednik. I mean honestly could Garcia or Garland be worse than Hudson and lets not forget Garcia and Garland were huge reasons the White Sox won the WS last year. If they were to give up Igucci then we could throw in Giles. If it was Posednik our leadoff problem is solved. The Sox are obviously willing to part with Posednik because he was offered as part of the deal for Soriano. I think this trade could be beneficial to both teams.
By Lew
July 27, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this
I meant he was out as in hurt-not that we should try to get him.
By TennesseePaul
July 27, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
Robert: Jose Reyes K’s a lot as well. But he’s still better than what we have. Giles certainly isn’t the fastest guy in the league or on the team. But you’re right. Every time we fire up the offense, the lead-off hitter is getting on. We would have been in a good spot today if the bench weren’t playing most of the main spots. Today’s line up was weak and it showed. We had the first two guys on, and then, when the third spot comes up it was… not Chipper. And the rest is history.
As for the trades, we have a few more days and then we’ll see. JS is going to do something.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 27, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this
it is good to know that baby seal has arrived in n.c. safe and sound. baby seal should prove most helpful to carolina lady while she is recuperating (helpful much like aaron the oil-changing giraffe r.i.p.). since baby seal left cod liver oil here journalist tried pouring it around the hostas. nothing yet to report but blue worms may be preparing to leave. a small satchel was found in the hosta bed and activity can be heard underground. three more hostas have succumbed and jimmy smith has yet to get off another shot with the crossman. night activity makes marksmanship tricky. now, baby shiell, today’s pitcher … it was not pretty. paronto pitched out of trouble - lack of use was evident in his command. is a difference in these teams that one is disciplined at the plate and the other has no discipline? our pitchers had to throw many pitches for an out - their pitchers only had to throw the ball in the vicinity of the plate. now, this movie … jimmy smith thought it preposterous to make an appearance until the mention of diane lane. now, journalist will be happy to appear. how does the movie end? dob and the old journalist in a buffet line and jimmy smith and diane lane ride off together? sounds reasonable. now, shakespeare … nah, just kidding. ask bob about shakespeare.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
My Lady, I was just closing down when I saw your post … you’re a sweetheart! I missed it but am almost sure the good doctor was already on FSN … someone on the Blog may have taped the “interview”.
It an early bedtime for me … actually past the scheduled time.
By ncscoots
July 27, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this
awright, I’m booking out. I’ll be in ATL this weekend, so gotta get some rack time, and start gettin’ my game face on. All hail the Braves, down with the Muts!
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
Bob, pleeeeze…..may I stay up for just :15 longer??? Pretty please with sugar on top?????
:-)))))
By mike
July 27, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
I don’t get it. Why do Mets fans continue to point out how many world series titles the braves have the last 15 years?
Remind me again: How many do the Mets have during that period?
The ONE time you even made it, you got b*h-slapped by the Yankees. And you only got there because someone else knocked the Braves out before you had to face them.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this
Utility player? Are we talking about the same utility player that people were having strokes about when the Yankee trade proposal was made public.
I think Betemit could be more than a utility player. The guy can play everyday and the Marlins would love a young cheap guy who has 25Hr and 80+RBI ability.
Also, I didn’t say it was “a blow me away” deal but its definitely one to put out there to see what the Fish had to say.
By Lew
July 27, 2006 10:03 PM | Link to this
Trade Giles and Hudson for as many prospects as the other team is willing to give up. In the offseason, spend the $11 million you saved on their contracts and buy a stud starter in the offseason. Take the $10 mil+ you’ll save on Sosa, Thomson, Reitsma, and Jordan in the offseason and buy a lead of hitting outfielder and a right handed hitting bench player (preferably a Conine type that can spell LaRoche or Thorman. Bring up Prado to play second. You still have Langerhans and Betemit for your bench. Trade Pete Orr, too.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this
Unless they get a starter, Mets fans should be quiet about the WS titles. Because after the dust settles on this season, the Mets will still not have won a WS title. Do they actually think they can win a WS with Trachsel and Maine as their 3rd and 4th starters. The Yanks, Red Sox, Jays, Tigers, Twins, White Sox, and A’s…heck even the Rangers can’t wait until October because any of those teams would wipe the field with the Mets.
By Carolina Lady
July 27, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this
:-)) Jimmy, Aaron is tall but not giraffe tall! I escaped the doghouse on my slip-up and am forgiven. (whew!)
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this
Lew, that is a terrific idea. Reitsma, Sosa, and Jordan should never play in a Braves’ uniform again and Thomson shoud have his service terminated immediatedly after the last game of the year.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this
I also think a deal with the White Sox could work. They may even be willing to throw in Brandon McCarthey because unlike Soriano they know Hudson will be around for awhile.
For argument’s sake lets say Ken Williams would agree to such a dea. Our rotation would be Smoltz, Garland, McCarthy, Ramierez, and James for the rest of the season with Hampton coming back next year and not to mention Davies. We then could use Ramirez, Davies, or James as trade bait. Can you say Carl Crawford? The Devil Rays want young pitchers who are cheap and we would have them. If Smoltz did decide to retire after next year, Lerew would be ready. I definitely think Tampa would listen to deal where we sent them two pitchers out of Davies, Ramirez, and James.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 27, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this
Couple of interesting things I just read at mlbtraderumors.com. The first is they are saying sources tell them (Mets sources, so I’m not sure how reliable. LOL) that a Betemit for Linebrink deal will go down at the last minute. I hope that Dave Roberts would be included in such a deal. Secondly, the Yankees have deemed Proctor “untouchable”. Whatever, they can keep him. Lastly, the Astros are dangling the idea of trading Brad Lidge. I wonder what the Astros would demand for Lidge. I almost would say trading Langerhans and Betemit for Lidge and maybe Tavaras would be a good deal. But, would the Astros even think about making a trade with a fellow wild card contender?
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this
Lidge has been a total head case this season. I don’t know if we’d want him. Plus, would he freak out if he wasn’t the closer?
By Glass Half Full
July 27, 2006 11:39 PM | Link to this
Some team would take Lidge though if the offer was reasonable. He’s one of those name-recognition guys that make some teams and fans go “ooooooo, Lidge” no matter what his numbers are. Kinda like our Hudson.
By Bob, journalist
July 27, 2006 11:56 PM | Link to this
Mrs. Bob told me to go ahead and stay up until 11:00 … guess she doesn’t want to lower the volume on the TV.
Jimmy, contrary to popular rumor, I don’t really know Will Shakesphere … he’s a little before my time. The only thing I know about him or his work is what I’ve read in books … and far too little of that, like everybody else.
My Lady, it never worked for me and it ain’t gonna work for you niether! Boy, but was my Daddy a softie … my little sister, whose middle name was “gimme” used those exact same words, inflection and all … to get her way at least 10,000 times! She believes in the theory that if it ain’t broke, don’t try to fix it … and hasn’t changed a bit. Is it ironic that ole “gimme this” and “gimme that” has a real middle name of Clay who also wore a “gimme” handle … “gimme liberty” or “gimme death”?
This really takes me back … to my trying to sing “Walking the Floor Over You”; “5 Minutes More”; “Open the Door Richard”; and “Caldonia … What Makes Your Big Head So Hard?” for mama’s enjoyment … and her amusement, I sure … thanks for the mid-1940s memories.
By The Grinch
July 28, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this
Good evening, all! Had a lovely time at the theatre. Did I miss anything exciting?
By Glass Half Full
July 28, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this
“Gimme liberty or gimme death” was Patrick Henry, dude.
By The Grinch
July 28, 2006 12:16 AM | Link to this
Bob was roomates with Patrick Henry! They got along well, but his other roomate Thomas was a Paine…
By toga toga toga
July 28, 2006 12:40 AM | Link to this
Gimme liberty or gimme death gimme suffocation or gimme breath gimme beans or gimme rice dichotomies sure are nice
By Lew
July 28, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this
Grinch-Thomas Paine was an ancestor on my mother’s side.
By The Grinch
July 28, 2006 12:52 AM | Link to this
Good deal, Lew…but how come you lack “Common Sense” then? Hee-hee! Couldn’t resist; sorry. Listening to Inspection 12 now. Starting to get a buzz. Great play tonight; good theater is hard to come by anymore. Bob must have passed out in the tub. Robert Anton Wilson is one of the sci-fi authors I used to read as a kid that I was trying to remember, Lew…ever read him?
By Bob, journalist
July 28, 2006 01:01 AM | Link to this
Optimist Glass, my bad … and apologies to all! I’m familiar with both Mr. Henry and Mr. Henry Clay … it was an ill fated funny … connecting both men with my sister that I decided against and then botched the abridged version … it also involved poor Nathan who only regrets that he has but one lifetime to devote to this Blog.
Grinch, I didn’t know Thomas but my dentist, Harvey Paine Sr. is of the same family tree. It takes class to apologize without being so prompted … though I’ve often found the prevention ounce adage to hold me in better stead.
Mrs. Bob just caught me at the computer so I guess it’s lights out for now.
By The Grinch
July 28, 2006 01:08 AM | Link to this
Bob, could your dentist be related to Lew? What a small world! Now if your dentist and his eye-doctor were related, then things would be strange indeed…Now, if I could prevent myself from the ounce (shotglass) I’d be much less of an a@#…ROTFLMAOLOL, or whatever that stuff means!
By Head Coach
July 28, 2006 01:23 AM | Link to this
61 games left , we are 48 and 53 , the average wildcard winner in the N.L. over the past ten years has had 92 wins. Thats means we probably have to go 44 and 17 or at the very least win 40 more…….. thats basically winning 2 out of 3 for the next two months. Thats a stat long on hope and short on reason or reality. Like Giles said , It’s gut check time.
By The Grinch
July 28, 2006 01:24 AM | Link to this
‘night, Y’all; fixin’ to watch a movie and take a snooze…
By flbravesgirl
July 28, 2006 01:38 AM | Link to this
I sure hope they snap out of whatever that was today before tomorrow’s (well, actually tonight’s) game. Every time I start feeling hopeful they come back to earth with a thud.
Lew, glad to hear the eye is doing well. Your description reminds of a player w/ the Giants who had a similar red-eyed condition from being hit by a pitch. Robby Thompson? I can picture him but not sure if the name is correct. It was several years ago, I think he’s a coach now.
By Bob, journalist
July 28, 2006 05:10 AM | Link to this
Grinch, the TV woke just me up … only to find Mama fast asleep on the sofa.
The NC “Scooter” in one underrated gent!
I don’t know about Dr. Paine’s connection with Lew’s family … maybe he does. Dr. Paine is no longer my dentist … another of my goofs for today … I should have said “was” instead of “is” … and it was a very long time ago. I started seeing him when I was about 10 years old and he seemed old then to my young eyes … I don’t know how old he really was but he’s probably passed on. I really liked him! I remember him as a stern but gentle man with sparkling eyes and a keen sense of humor … no pain whatsoever but it flies in the face of common sense for parents to send their son to any dentist named “pain”, regardless of how it’s spelled. My first dentist, Dr. Norman C. Poer, used to drill until I yelled but I liked going to see him because you could see parades and such from his office windows.
As sure as I’m sitting here, the spelling was “Paine” because he often joked “It’s pain with an ‘e’ … and my name hurts me more than I’ll ever hurt thee” … sitting in his “Chair of Paine”, I heard all about “Common Sense” too … but, it’s just possible he was just having a young boy on … because when I just now searched the Internet, I found no reference to any Atlanta dentists named Paine. I did find one in Chicago who might be either his son or grandson as I remember his oldest being in Dental School. My suspicion that I may have been had … stems from having also found reference to one Harvey Payne DDS who was President of the Georgia Dental Association in 1954.
Of course, I understand there was also Thomas Payne in days of yore.
By Bob, journalist
July 28, 2006 06:55 AM | Link to this
Ramblin’s of an Old Wreck … The older I get the worse I am and the better I was, I can tell you that! Man, I hate sloppy posts and mine are among the worst on the Blog … my only excuse is that my son called yesterday and asked for my help in solving some differential equations and simplifying some complex exponentials … I told him that if he needed my help he was in deep trouble but we did have a nice chat. Methinks he didn’t need any help and just trying to impress the old man … but it did put a strain on my little greys and they’ll take me some time to recover.
He shines brightly, that son of mine … and it’s disappointing that he’s not much of a sports fan … I think it’s because of the frustration he’s experienced when trying to compete … but somewhere he has one or two of my old trophies hidden away, together with an old Raoul Dufy I gave him and a ball that I had The Mick sign for him years ago … keeps asking me how much all that junk is worth!
By ncscoots
July 28, 2006 07:28 AM | Link to this
oh, Bob, sons and fathers, now you’re talking differential and complex! I was lucky enough to have a father who taught me how to keep a scorecard and an open mind (and a mother who read me to sleep with Goldilocks and Robert Frost, but that’s another post), and through all the times that we didn’t see eye to eye, we could always converse civilly about baseball. He became much smarter as I grew up, of course!
By dylan
July 28, 2006 08:23 AM | Link to this
Guy calling yourself the real todd pratt that was the poorest use of stats and numbers I have seen in a long long time you forgot to mention how a sample size as small as the one you are using show nothing at all next off the argument is that Pratt is a major reason we are losing but the truth is he only influenced a handful of games I truly believe you could have plugged Victor Martinez or Joe Mauer in those same games and still not improve our record by more then 3 games.In other words a backup catcher has way too little an effect on a ballclub to be the reason they are under .500.
By JasonInMaine
July 28, 2006 08:25 AM | Link to this
From braves.mlb.com:
Trade winds a blowin’: While the Braves have had a few conversations with the Nationals about Alfonso Soriano, multiple team sources have said it doesn’t appear the power-hitting Soriano will be coming to Atlanta. He’ll be a free agent at the end of the year and the Braves don’t feel they’d be able to re-sign him.
There have been numerous sources who have indicated they believe Wilson Betemit will be dealt to the Yankees for right-handed reliever Scott Proctor. But both the Braves and Yankees have legitimate concerns in regards to this deal.
With Jones still not completely healthy, the Braves are hesitant to move Betemit, who, after some years of struggle, has proven to be one of the game’s top young talents. As for the Yankees, Kyle Farnsworth’s ongoing back problems — something he battled in Atlanta last year — make them hesitant to move Proctor.
But the overwhelming belief among sources from around the league indicate this is the most likely deal the Braves will make before Monday’s non-waiver trade deadline.
By eware
July 28, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this
DOB, I’m excited that Neal Casal is playing. He’s also a member of the Cardinals. So, after playing two sets, he’ll be the sweatiest guy there, unless John Thomson makes an appearance! BURN!
Anyways, I’ve recently been into the Old 97’s. What do you think of their stuff?
By JasonInMaine
July 28, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this
I was kind of hoping that the Braves would make a move last night or this morning…before the big series with the Mets. It would obviously be better to make one before the weekend rather than after. No such luck I guess.
Regards,
Jason
By Glass Half Full
July 28, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this
The day is still young, Jason. However, if a deal were made today, I doubt the player would be with the team by tonight’s game.
By Glass Half Full
July 28, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this
Unless the trade was with the Mets, which ain’t gonna happen. Pete Orr and Sosa for Pedro and David Wright, right?
By JasonInMaine
July 28, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this
Glass,
Yeah, your are probably right. It would depend on where the player was coming from and what not. It has happened before. I am not doubting JS. I was just hoping that the bullpen would be shored up or a lift given to the team before the series started. A move won’t have quite the same impact if we were to lose 2 out of 3 or God forbid…get swept!
Regards,
Jason
By metsmanintheatl
July 28, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this
take one of three this weekend and your run is over…like our chances with pedro going tonite…METZOS RULE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By David O'Brien
July 28, 2006 10:51 AM | Link to this
Head coach, please don’t get all defensive at this question and take it as a personal shot, because it’s not. I’m just curious, though: Why do you and a few others continue to obsess over how many wins it’ll take to win the wild card based on past years?
Past years are wholly irrelevent when it comes to this year’s race. By that I mean, every year in the past, there’s been a better wild-card leader in the NL than the Cincinnati Reds right now. The two years the Marlins won the World Series as wild-card teams, for example, they were extremely talented units, the ‘97 one filled with high-priced free agent aquisitions and bolstered by the July trades for Counsell and Daulton, and the 2003 one that had the likes of Beckett, Derrek Lee, Mike Lowell, Miguel Cabrera, etc.
This Cincy team, and every other team in this wild-card race, has serious flaws. Therefore, why not look at the 5-1/2 games separating the Braves from the leader, and the few teams between the Braves and the leader, and base your prognostication for the Braves’ chances on that? Because “it’s going to take 88-90 wins” to win it, simply because that’s what it took in the past, is illogical. Makes NO SENSE.
By Todd A
July 28, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this
How do the Marlins keep coming up with this great young pitching every four years or so after they blow up their roster?At first,I thought it was Dave Dombrowski,but,he’s moved on.
The Braves draft pitching,pitching,and more pitching.Yet,the best we’ve cultivated through our system over the years is Jason Schmidt,and we traded him 10 years ago next month.We trade for a guy we think is a shut down starter in Tim Hudson,and he turns into a mediocre 6 million $ 4th starter overnight.
The Marlins keep churning out outstanding young pitching prospects through trades despite having to unload these same guys 4-5 years down the road.You would think at some point,some of these pitchers they traded for would be busts,but it never seems to be the case.
By TDub
July 28, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this
From ESPN: The Milwaukee Brewers are trading slugger Carlos Lee to the Texas Rangers as part of a multi-player deal, ESPN.com learned Friday.
The Brewers are sending Lee, minor-league outfield prospect Nelson Cruz and a player to be named later to the Rangers for relief pitcher Francisco Cordero and outfielders Kevin Mench and Laynce Nix.
Both teams are checking for any medical issues before consummating the deal.
By TDub
July 28, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this
If this deal does through (nice job by the Brewers, at first glance), the chips should fall pretty quickly in the Soriano sweeps, dontcha think?
By Lew
July 28, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this
I’m more concerned by our recent inconsistency than I am the number of games needed to win the wild card. Over the past week we have a 3-4 record. If we can’t play .500 the rest of the way, we’re screwed. Even if we make it, it could well be a one and out again. We have got to achieve some positive consistency.
By nathan
July 28, 2006 11:38 AM | Link to this
DOB
For two weeks I’ve been saying we need pitching, pitching and more pitching. Whether it’s for the bullpen or rotation. (if we add a starter, one of the “starters” we have could help in pen, IMO), so any form of pitching could/would help. Get pitching at damn near any cost, I say!
But, I had a thought earlier today. Yes, sometimes I think before I type!
I realize that the last time he was here, there were personality issues that both sides had to deal with. But what about trading for Kenny Lofton to play LF and bat leadoff? I mean, I’m sold on Thorman as a hitter but not as an outfielder. Hell even if we want to keep Thorman, keep him as a 4th or 5th OF. Then if Andruw walks, or gets traded, we put Francoeur in CF and Thorman could take a corner spot. Plus, if they were to make a trade for Lofton (or somebody similar), I doubt they would keep him beyond the stretch run.
I’m just curious if there is any possibility of this happening. And if the players he “didn’t get along” with, are gone, or was it more with Bobby than anybody else? I guess I never read or heard who he had trouble with, just know it didn’t work.
Obviously, this trad would be based on the fact that the Dodgers were “selling” at deadline, and that we wouldn’t give up much for him. But if he could be had, I say take a shot. He’s not what he once was, but he’s better than any of our leadoff options, and he does have 17 SB in 19 attempts this year. Not bad for an old man with limited playing time.
By BravesFaninRockies
July 28, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this
Based on nonexistent inside sources, my guess about trades involving the Braves:
1) A mid-level to major deal involving at least some players we’ve not heard about. This, based on the Wickman trade (seriously, it was going to be Williamson or Linebrink, right?). This one was a surprise and there may be others to come.
2) Nothing until after the deadline, which could mean an even bigger deal than they could swing before Monday. The Braves might be able to pull off a decent post-waiver trade because their record is below .500 and only teams above them could block it. The Mets or the Reds have no power to prevent something from going through.
3) A couple of small deals, as is expected.
But we can hope for 1) or 2), right?
By The GM
July 28, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this
The Braves were just looking past the Marlins to the Mets series. That’s why they lost 2 of 3 to them. All we’ve heard them talk about since being back in Atlanta is being ready for the Mets. Andruw and Chipper kept repeating that. The Braves are fine and will be ready for the Mets tonight. I guarantee! Cant wait for first pitch!
By Stanford
July 28, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this
Todd A: think what we could do if we decided to trade Andruw, Chipper, Hudson, Smoltz, Betemit, Giles and Renteria to contenders, for only prospects, before the trade deadline. We could probably pick up half the top pitching prospects on the rosters of the teams in contention. Then we’d lose for a couple of years while we restock the bats, and be where Florida is now.
That’s what Florida has done. Plus, they draft a lot higher most years than we do and are better able to pick up the can’t-miss prospects.
Also, the Braves have developed a whole lot more pitching than just Schmidt in the last 15 years.
By KC
July 28, 2006 11:54 AM | Link to this
Lew:
This 3-4 stretch is nothing to get worked up about.
2 of those 4 loses can be directly attributed to having to use a AAA-call-up journeyman to start a game (or two games as the case may be).
We never had a chance with Shiell against Carpenter. We weren’t in much better shape yesterday with Shiell, given the way that FLA kid was throwing the ball, along with AJ not at 100% and Chipper & McCann both on the bench.
(It would be great to get Davies back in a week or two.)
And another one of those losses (Tues.) was certainly nothing to get upset about. It was a pitchers duel between two great young arms. They barely edged us out with both Jones’ out of the lineup.
There were some very positive signs for our pitching staff in the Marlins series:
Chuck James showed us a lot by pitching his was out of a couple jams and giving the Braves an excellent start (7 inn, 2-ER). Yates had a good outing, and Paronto had 2 good outings, continuing to impress.
By nathan
July 28, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this
Stanford, I’ve been saying the same thing for two months. We already have a better “core” than the Marlins have. Plus we’d be more willing to spend money in Free Agency than the Marlins. It’ll never happen, but it more than likely would work.
Once people got over the “shock” of losing fan favorites, they’d realize that they would be better and younger in a couple of years. I wanna hear from the Braves fans who wouldn’t JUMP to have the Marlins rotation with the offense we have. I love Smoltz, but he’s ALL we got. James isn’t even as good as the trio of Marlins Young Guns.
They still can try and sneak in this year, and see what happens, but this off season, I’d clean house and start a new! Though, they probably could “get more” in trades, if they gave up on this year and did it now.
Just my thoughts, nothing else.
By Stanford
July 28, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this
Nathan, from a “between the lines” standpoint Lofton makes a ton of sense, and I would guess the Dodgers are sellers this weekend given their freefall. But seemed like Lofton and Cox were just a bad match; I don’t know, but doubt either of them would want to replay it. He could energize the lineup for 2 months, though, if he could be had cheap.
By KC
July 28, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this
BravesFaninRockies:
Excellent point. I hadn’t thought about that, but you’re right. Neither the Reds or the Mets could do anything to block a post-deadline waiver trade. Hmmm…
That’s always a possibility. JS has pulled those off in years where nearly every team in the league had an opportunity to intervene.
By BB
July 28, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this
I’ve got an idea! Let’s trade the entire roster for the Marlins entire roster! Then we will have a good young core and no big contracts, and then we can pick up Bonds, Pujols, A-Rod, and Clemens since will have all that money laying around!!
Can’t people just be happy with what we have, and not be down on the team all the time? It’s getting too hard to read this blog.
By nathan
July 28, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this
So it was Cox that Lofton had the problem with or was it the other way around?
By Stanford
July 28, 2006 12:05 PM | Link to this
Nathan, personally I think it would be exciting. If Scheurholz has just a couple of years left, you could say that he’d leave a greater “legacy” by sacrificing winning his last year or two in exchange for leaving a roster stocked with low-cost, top-tier talent. But like you say, it’ll never happen.
By Stanford
July 28, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this
BBFan, the last 20 or so comments are about nothing but baseball, and to my mind there’s not a stupid comment in the bunch. When you refresh the page, hit CTRL-End on your keyboard to go to the bottom of the page and then work your way up; it’s not that hard.
What do you want to read here? Trade Betemit, Don’t Trade Betemit for the 10,000th time?
By nathan
July 28, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this
BB
Your absolutely right, we should always be happy and “setlle” for what we have.
Now that you mention it, I’m really p*ssed that we “broke” up that World Series team from 1995. We shoulda just kept all of them until they died. That would’ve been fun to watch.
Don’t you people get that if you don’t keep a steady flow of youth streaming into the roster. That one day you will wake up and this team will be the Mid-80’s Boston Celtics. Old, Slow, Overpaid, and not going anywhere fast.
Fan favorites are shipped off for better, younger talent every year on many teams. If JS is as good as everybody says he is. He should be able to work MAGIC if he were to trade for the future, shouldn’t he?
By Todd A
July 28, 2006 12:15 PM | Link to this
I said Jason Schmidt is the best of the bunch.Who have the Braves drafted the last 15 years that is better?Millwood?No.Marquis?Not a chance.Odalis Perez?Nope.Horatio looks good right now,but he has had injury problems,and some really bad seasons.Kyle Davies?May turn out to be a Millwood type….if he’s lucky.James?Too early to tell.McGlinchey?Rocker?Wohlers?ZZZZZZZZZ.Still waiting.Even if you go back a little further and include Avery and Mercker in there,I would still give the nod to Schmidt.But they were drafted by Cox.
One thing the Braves do have that the Marlins don’t,is the ability to take on significant salary in a hurry should the organization decide to cut bait and trade off several of it’s higher salary players.
By Stanford
July 28, 2006 12:16 PM | Link to this
That’s BB, not BBFan (sorry BBFan).
By nathan
July 28, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this
Well said Todd.
By Elder Seal
July 28, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this
Just wondering. Do KC and nathan have jobs?
By nathan
July 28, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this
Yup! I own a Photo studio. So inbetween shoots I have a LOT of free time, at all ours of the day!
But thanks for asking.
PS: when you own your own business you don’t get yelled at for being on the internet! LOL
By Stanford
July 28, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this
Todd, the Marlins’ crop of young starters is good, but there are no proven stars there yet except maybe Willis. I wouldn’t assume that ALL of them will develop into stars, but who knows, maybe they will. Like I said, they got there by giving up most of their proven veterans. Yeah, Schmidt is probably the best of the bunch developed by the Braves, but there are a lot of pitchers, on our roster and around the league, that we developed.
Really not disagreeing with you, just commenting on “how” they manage to do it, which I thought was the topic you raised.
By hk
July 28, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this
… Cincy is now 54-48, if you take 162/102 times 54 you get 85.8, call it 86 wins for the season … as David points out, none of the teams in contention have done well lately, except Florida … my guess today would be 87 wins does it, as few as 86, no more than 89 .. to win 87, the Braves would have to go 39-22 the rest of the way … Florida would have to go 41-21 to beat that …
Bob, growing up I had a dentist named Armstrong, I remember his huge forearms … he’d say, “do you want novocaine ?? .. naw, you’re to tough for that” … didn’t want to admit I wasn’t, no novocaine (groan) …
By KC
July 28, 2006 01:00 PM | Link to this
BravesFaninRockies:
Excellent point. I hadn’t thought about that, but you’re right. Neither the Reds or the Mets could do anything to block a post-deadline waiver trade. Hmmm…
That’s always a possibility. JS has pulled those off in years where nearly every team in the league had an opportunity to intervene.
By KC
July 28, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this
Elder Seal:
Self-employed. There are perks. :o)
By will c
July 28, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this
DO NOT trade Betemit. In the playoffs, our bat ting dips and we need a spark off the bench. He provides that life when needed most.
I’m for a deal to bring Dontrelle Willis here.
http://www.williamcoit.com
By TennesseePaul
July 28, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this
If we aim to win 90+ games, we’ll take the division. IT would be near impossible to be on that type of a tear and not over take the Mets. We’d have to sweep a lot of teams to do it. As long as we are dreaming about sweeping teams, let’s sweep the Mets the rest of the season. That’s 9 games. Which would mean a difference of 3 games against everyone else. Which would easily be made up if we had to win 92 games the rest of the year.
It’s pointless to see what it would take based on previous years. Anything can happen. The Mets and Reds could all die in a mid-air collision some where over the great plains.
As for this trade everything for prospects, I’m glad I don’t have to go throught that every few years. What a disaster. I like contending every year. It’s way more rewarding. And, the Braves have produced good, talented pitchers. To hear it from some, Marquis, Wainwright, Schmidt, Millwood, and so on are sure fire Hall of Famers.
But in all seriousness, we developed HoRam, James and Davies. All three of which have the potential to be amazing. I do wish he had at least one fire-baller. I guess we did, but he didn’t know how to throw a curve ball. (Frickin Kolb). At any rate, I like what we have, I don’t think a major overhaul is needed either.
The Problem I see with adding Willis is, next year we’d have Willis, Hampton, James, and HoRam. That’s 4 lefties. We’d need some righties in the rotation. We have Smoltz and Hudson. But 6 man rotations aren’t a good idea. Trading HoRam, Davies or James doesn’t seem like a good move either. Hampton is not going anywhere and trading Smoltz would be like stabbing yourself in the heart. He should retire a Brave.
By TennesseePaul
July 28, 2006 01:35 PM | Link to this
I’m a little surprised at the absence of the Dodgers from the Willis rumors. They need pitching. And the Dodgers are closer to Willis’ home. The Dodgers have the money and the prospects to get him.
By KC
July 28, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this
The only chance we have at the division is if several things happen:
1-The Mets don’t get a quality starter before the deadline.
2-Tim Hudson gets it turned around and goes on a tear the rest of the season.
3-Our middle relief holds up extremely well.
Unless the Mets really go into a prolonged slump (which is at least possible with their lack of starting pitching depth), all 3 of these things will have to happen for Atlanta to have any chance at the NL East.
By CharlotteDave
July 28, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this
DOB, what’s the latest scuttlebut on the trade front? Is it possible the Braves will end up not doing anything? What is your best hunch about what we’re likely to see?
By AJK
July 28, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this
Carlos Lee went to the Texas Rangers in a teade today. Shame - he would have fit in awfully nicely with the Braves. The three most pressing needs for the Braves remian bullpen help, leadoff hitter and a reliable bat in LF. The last two could be solved with a trade for Carl Crawford, but I’m not even sure he’s available. If we trade Betemit for Linebrink (I wish!) we could probably acquire Todd Walker to be the “super sub” in his place. Walker has little or no experience at 3B, but I suspect he could learn relatively quickly, and he’s hit well throughout his career.
By KC
July 28, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this
AJK:
Don’t worry about LF. Scott Thorman is going to be a 30+ homer a year guy in this league for a long time. It remains to be seen if he can learn to hit major-league lefties, but we still have Diaz out there for the lefties (he hits .329 against them).
Right now Langerhanz has it going, so he’ll probably be in there most of the time until he cools off. But Thorman’s the big bat out there. Again, don’t worry about our offense from left field… we’re going to get plenty of it out there.
By KC
July 28, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this
In the month of July, our left-fielders (Thorman, Langerhanz, Diaz) are hitting:
.285 6-HR / 21-RBI (and the month’s not quite over)
By The Grinch
July 28, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this
BB, you really wouldn’t trade this team for the best of the Marlins core plus A-Rod, Clemmins, Pujols and another high-profile player besides Bonds (he isn’t worth the paper he’s printed on; say Pappi instead)? I wouldn’t, because I love my boys, but I have to admit it’d be tempting.
KC and nathan: owning your own buisness does have its perks, I admit; but filling out taxes ain’t one of them! Blah! Journalist Bob, didn’t read your posts until just now; I passed out about 20 minutes into “Toombstone” last night. Lew, I hope you realize I was just making a wretched litterary pun last night and not trying to insult you…
By JasonInMaine
July 28, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
Sorry if this has already been posted, but here is a blurb from ESPN Insider:
Betemit for bullpen help Jul 28 - The Braves are looking for a power arm in the bullpen, and there are rumblings that the Braves have spoken to the Dodgers about dealing Betemit for Danys Baez, but it’s not likely to happen, according to ESPN.com’s Jayson Stark. The Braves could once again consider the Yankees’ Scott Proctor, Stark reports, but Atlanta needs to figure out if it really wants to part with the 24-year-old Betemit, who’s been invaluable to the Braves as a utility infielder.
Man, I happen to be in the minority and feel that Betemit should be traded for a good, legit power arm…but not Baez!
By Bud Butler
July 29, 2006 09:20 AM | Link to this
I don’t think JS is calling the shots I think it’s his wife.