AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2006 > July > 30 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USCurtain comes down on disappointing Sosa
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The curtain came down today to bring a merciful end to the Jorge Sosa era.
Designated for assignment to clear a spot for new setup man Danys Baez, which came as no surprise to anyone paying attention. It was either Sosa or Jason Shiell who had to go, and the Braves need Shiell to start a game next weekend.
So, Sosa is done as a Brave. We hardly knew you, Jorge.
No, really, we hardly knew him.
Though he spoke English well enough to carry on one-on-one conversations and express himself in interviews, Sosa used the language barrier as an excuse to routinely decline to speak after games.
Sometimes he declined to speak when a translator was available. Of course, this was after games this season.
Sosa had no problem being interviewed after his starts last season, when he went 13-3 with a 2.55 ERA, a fall-from-the-sky success story and a big reason the Braves won their 14th consecutive division title.
This year? He was a $2.2 million disaster. He leaves with a 3-10 record and 5.46 ERA and 3-for-6 saves in 26 games, including 13 starts. He allowed a .298 opponents’ average and .355 OBP, and a whopping 20 homers.
He lost his starting job in June, lost the closer job a few weeks ago, lost his entire job Sunday.
Appropriately enough, Sosa waved off a couple of us writers when we approached him this morning in the clubhouse, after the announcement was made. He didn’t want to talk. He mentioned “later,” which might or might not have meant he’d talk later.
Yeah, whatever.
The Braves will put him on waivers and either trade or release him.
Meanwhile ….
The other new guy, Willy Aybar, is in the lineup hitting leadoff today and playing third base, where he’ll probably be for the next two weeks until Chipper Jones returns from the DL. He’s a smallish guy, looks fast, but you’d never suspect he has the power numbers that he’s had in the minors.
Aybar was hitting .250 with a .356 OBP, 12 doubles, three homers and 22 RBIs in 128 at-bats for the Dodgers, and only .219 with a .328 OBP and five errors in his past 33 games.
The scouting reports on him from Baseball America and other services in recent years had him projected as a future starter for the Dodgers when he was a prospect in their organization before last season, but his defense hasn’t yet lived up to his skill level. He plays third and second, but not shortstop.
Schuerholz told me this morning that Braves scouts gave glowing reports on the kid, so we’ll see. He hit 315 with 10 homers and 41 RBIs at Class AAA Las Vegas to start the season, but hit there almost exclusively during his successful callup last year.
In 83 at-bats as leadoff man in 2005 for L.A., he hit .337 with eight doubles, a homer, 17 walks and a .455 on-base percentage.
I think it’s worth noting, he’s 23. Wilson Betemit is 26.
As good as Betemit has been these past two seasons with the Braves, I’m reminded of what we were saying about him entering spring training 2005.
Remember? He was out of options and the question was whether the Braves could even afford to carry him because he looked like he’d be a wasted roster spot if they did, and no team wanted to trade for him. The Braves tussled with it.
Remember that? Then he had a good spring, earned a spot and hit .305 as a 25-year-old rookie.
When Betemit was 23, he was in the middle of his second of his three seasons at Triple-A Richmond in 2003. He .262 with 13 triples, eight homers, 65 RBIs, 115 strikeouts in 478 at-bats that season. Oh, and he made 28 errors. TWENTY-EIGHT.
He got thicker, stronger, slower, and the next season hit .278 at Richmond with two triples, 13 homers, 59 RBIs and 99 strikeouts in 356 at-bats before his first callup with the Braves. He hit .170 (8-for-47) with no extra-base hits in 22 games for the Braves that season, when he was 24.
I just bring this up to remind folks that Betemit was shaping up to be a bust at 23, having lost his top-prospect status. And in the past two years, he turned into a pretty good player.
OK, that’s it. Time to watch the Braves try to salvage a series that threatens to erase all the momentum they gained during their recent 15-6 surge and seven-game winning streak, if that momentum isn’t already gone.
Later.
Oh, wait, almost forgot to throw in a quick review of the Van Hunt performance at Smith’s Olde Bar last night. Now, I’m gonna assume most of you’ve never heard of this guy (correct me if I’m wrong).
I’m telling you, this guy is the real deal, a fantastic performer who’s like this live-wire hybrid of Prince, Sly Stone and Curtis Mayfield, with healthy doses of little Hendrix, James Brown and Rick James.
He’s the closest thing to early Prince that I’ve heard (I saw the Prince Purple Rain tour in ‘83 or ‘84, and that’s what it reminded me of), but on certain other slower numbers it’s like he’s channeling Mayfield. Then he’ll play straight-forward rock/funk, or punk/funk, as the great Rick James called it.
Anyway, you should’ve been there. Really, really good stuff, and from what I understand he lives in Atlanta. He’s got two major-label CDs and they’re both outstanding, the latest being “On the Jungle Floor.” Get it, and or download it and let me know what you think.
Ryan Adams tonight. Anybody go last night? Am I in for a good show? And does anybody have a Tom Waits ticket they want to sell me? Otherwise, your correspondent is going to be trying to scalp one outside the Tabernacle on Tuesday night.
Comments
By Chop Chop
July 30, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this
3-0 Mets.
An inauspicious start, I’d say.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this
oh, the humanity! down by two before the journalist could make this post. lew, jimmy smith has received no e-mail. just checked again. journalist is anxious to see lew’s work. oh, the humanity! before journalist could send this post they have scored again. oh, the humanity! why isn’t aybar catching these batted balls?
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this
HOO-RAY!WITH SOSA gone, less chance of me throwing something at the tv after every homerun he gives up
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 01:19 PM | Link to this
met home runs in 1st inn of each game in the series- its like A ball pitching vs major league batters
By Mark
July 30, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this
So much for trying to salvage the series. Already in a 3-0 hole with a couple more runners on. This series has brought back painful memories to the beginning of the season when the Braves seemingly started every game with a deficit. What is up with the home struggles?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this
oh, the humanity! 3 runs on 4 hits. will this first inning never end? willie randolph is managing another gem.
By Calvin
July 30, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this
I’m just wondering when the Braves will get a decent outing from their starters not named Smoltz.
By Don
July 30, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this
Dave, congratulations for acknowledging that Betemit, against all odds from 2-3 years ago, turned into a pretty good player. That’s the best thing I’ve ever seen you say about him. He became a pretty good cheap player who could fill in capably at 3 infield positions and showed some signs to all but the blind of potentially becoming even more than that. So we trade him for a 60 day rental relief pitcher who has been terrible this year and a guy who might have a 25% chance of becoming the next Wilson Betemit, except he won’t be able to play short. And by your analogy, at a time when it was so important for us to get another relief pitcher because we’re really right in the middle of the wild card race, we’re plugging in the 2003 Wilson Betemit to play 3rd base everyday.
Makes sense to me.
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this
LaRouche still sucks.
Source: Crisp in trade talks By Michael Silverman Boston Herald Sports Reporter
Saturday, July 29, 2006 - Updated: 10:04 AM EST
Reading online that the Red Sox are looking for a starter and are willing to trade Crisp:
In order to add another starter to the rotation for the remainder of this season and possibly beyond, the Red Sox are making two-thirds of their starting outfield - center fielder Coco Crisp and right fielder Trot Nixon - available to other teams while also making it clear that young pitchers Jonathan Papelbon, Jon Lester, Craig Hansen and Manny Delcarmen are not going anywhere.
Nixon’s name has been part of the rumor mill for some time this summer, which, given that he is eligible for free agency at the end of the season, comes as no big surprise with Monday’s non-waivers trading deadline fast approaching. Crisp is somewhat of a different story. A major league source yesterday said the Red Sox had recently made a concrete offer that included Crisp to another team for a starter. Crisp’s availability can be read any number of ways. The 26-year-old is having a mildly disappointing season so far - .275 batting average and 11 stolen bases after his 2-for-4 effort in an 8-3 loss to the Los Angeles Angels last night - but his upside is still considered quite high. Cost control is another factor that would make him attractive, considering that he and the Red Sox agreed this April to a three-year contract extension worth $15.5 million, plus an $8 million option for 2010. Backup outfielder Wily Mo Pena is also believed to be on the list of players the Red Sox are making available. Included among the starters the Sox might be interested in acquiring are Philadelphia’s Jon Lieber and Cory Lidle, Washington’s Livan Hernandez and Baltimore’s Rodrigo Lopez. Manager Terry Francona said that although he could not and should not speak for general manager Theo Epstein, no one should worry about the Red Sox dealing away any of their young and promising pitching talent. “I can’t imagine that happening,” Francona said. “I imagine (Epstein) has gotten tons of calls about those guys, if he hasn’t, that’s crazy, but I can’t see something like that happening. If someone called him and offered him half the All-Star team, I guess he’d have to think about that. We value them very highly.”
By kevin
July 30, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this
woohoo 3-0! this series brings back bad memories of June…throw in the towel and get this wretched season done with…oye
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this
when will pete orr be Designated for assignment ……….. bobby finally drop giles out of the leadoff spot
By krath
July 30, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this
Jorge is gone. Maybe one day it will come together for him somewhere. Maybe not. Like Betemit all we can say is he’s gone.
Speaking of gone, how bout our starting rotation? Other than Smoltz, we stink. Do we try to grab another starter in the 27 hours that are left before the deadline or do we move one or two of our starters to other teams for help next year? In two days it will be August. Are we still saying the starting rotation will come around?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this
the mysterious aybar is coming to bat. nickname? this will be difficult. perhaps we can hear bobby from the dugout. oops, aybar is out before journalist can post. giles at number two. hitting like number two.
By Chop Chop
July 30, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this
As DOB (and many others) pointed out during the Braves’ insanely hot offensive stretch, the starting pitching has been a dirty secret that has continued to get dirtier after the offense has cooled off. It’s just hard to win when you can’t keep the other team from scoring five or six runs a game.
By Robert S.
July 30, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this
Well, some players are late bloomers. Betemit is shaping up to be a fine third baseman/shortstop in the mold of a Renteria (perhaps with more power) and if I recall correctly, he made some eye-popping defensive plays while filling in at third for Chipper. This deal reeks of Butler/Jacoby for Len Barker, and Jermaine Dye for Michael Tucker.
As for Sosa, and related to the Betemit deal, what ever happened to the potential Sosa-for-Ray King deal that ESPN bandied about? That would have made more sense than giving Betemit away for Baez and an unknown (who just popped out to sort as I type this). Sosa may yet be traded before 4 PM tomorrow though, we’ll see…….
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this
see, giles is already comfortable in that 2 spot- when is the last time he leadoff and got a freakin double……. now aybar better be effective in the 1 hole
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this
my apologies- edgar got the double- im out
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
supergrass, watching same game? that is not giles on second base. the only difference is renteria now hits with two outs instead of one.
By Chop Chop
July 30, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
I remember some Braves fans crying in the offseason about Sosa’s name being mentioned in trade talks. Have they any tears left to shed today?
By Tonight on TBS
July 30, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
The incredible true story of a 26 year old (or is he 24?) utility infielder of the Atlanta Braves, Wilson ‘Che’ Betemit (yes, that Che, played here by Gael Garcia Bernal), who motorcycled from Atlanta to Los Angeles along with his best friend journalist Jimmy Smith (himself), baby seal in tow. The trek became a personal odyssey that ultimately crystallized his baseball philosophy as he became a Dodger and a beloved cult figure. Based on Jimmy Smith’s diaries of the trip.
By krath
July 30, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this
Whats the over under on runs James allows this inning?
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this
I never have seen so many rally killers in one lineup.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this
grinch, that you? journalist agrees that tbs should buy a couple more programs to go with the six they already run, but nothing like what has been described. did anyone notice andruw’s careful at-bat with glavine? why is andruw selective only with glavine? did anyone believe francoeur would get a hit against tommy? now, aybar … looks good at third so far.
By David O'Brien
July 30, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this
Don, are you related to Betemit?
And by the way, you wear me out. There’s just no reasoning with you. You know everything. You’re the most frustrating blogger we’ve had, at least on this topic, since a certain person we somehow got rid of weeks ago, who shall remain nameless.
Just so you know, I’m done debating Betemit with you. Time to move on. You can talk to yourself on the subject, because I think you like to hear yourself talk anyway.
By kevin
July 30, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this
WHAT is UP with the Braves “pitchers” giving up hits to the opposing pitchers??? This is just getting sad man.
By krath
July 30, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this
Wildcard my a*s!!!! lol
By kevin
July 30, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this
…7-0…ok I’m gonna go do something productive now…I need to wash my car anyway…enjoy your games people
By Lew
July 30, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this
Well, the writing was on the proverbial wall with Sosa. I can’t say I’m surprised. I like the fact BC has Aybar leading off and Giles back to number 2. Hitting third sure didn’t affect Renteria. Now if we can just come up with the offense to come back from a 7-0 deficit. At least there’s time left today. Jornalist Jimmy-Did you receive the art work? I had trouble with your email.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this
dob, hot today? cool off with some cheese and crackers and a root beer to wash it down. thanks for the new blog. the old one was slow like following the old journalist up the ramp. old journalist there today?
how about mcdowell and cox - there today? thinking of visiting struggling rookie pitcher on the mound?
what? what? oh, the humanity - a grand slam! why did aybar not catch the batted ball? time to tend the hostas …
oh, the humanity!
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this
wow! its like a punch in the face with a swift kick to the a*s now shiell? im almost 100% shiell gives up a few runs
By Lew
July 30, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this
This has passed the point of total embarassment. I fell like I’m having a flashback to 1989.
By krath
July 30, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this
I guess I have to answer my own question that I asked at the start of this inning before anyone had even stepped into the box. If you had over 3 runs, as the over under on James you were a winner!!! If you had under 4 runs, you’re a loser.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this
lew, your e-mail did not arrive. journalist will e-mail you again.
well, get sosa ready for some long relief … what? sosa is gone? will bobby burn up his bullpen or will chucky take one for the team? take 7 for the team? can he give up fewer than 9 so he will not be compared to ace tim hudson? oh, the humanity! how will glavine pitch with a 7 run lead? bobby looks sad in the dugout. not going to the nose - not going to the mound - not going to the playoffs it seems. perhaps there will be some heroics when the “p” players enter the game.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this
Can we please acquire one starting pitcher?
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this
Ok, there is one day left before the trading deadline…trade the old timers that we just got, Hudson, Giles, and anyone else you get get some team to take off of your hands. Folks, I have officially joined the next year bandwagon…this season is a lost cause. Like I said after the road trip, if you can’t win at home; it doesn’t matter. So, the “momentum” that the “surging” Braves gained when the came home was short lived. This is the 2nd darn time they come home after a decent road trip and won 1 freakin game at home…1! What the heck. Let Smoltz finish with the Tigers, trade Hudson, and look to the future.
Regards,
Jason
By krath
July 30, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this
Speaking of Sosa.. is James next to be run out of town? His homerun per inning pitched ration is higher than Sosas was!!!
By Chop Chop
July 30, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this
I think it would be amusing if the Braves traded Baez before he even took the mound as a Brave.
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this
7-0, huh!
Time to go do something productive as well. I’m headed to the gym.
BTW
LaRouche still sucks. I am booing him now, and I will be booing him later.
By Col. Kurtz
July 30, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this
The horror. The horror!
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this
yes, journalist sees baby shiell is in the game. this is not pretty. perhaps mccann will hit an 8-run homer.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this
Wilson, who?
By NY Man
July 30, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this
Glavine doing this own purpose
By krath
July 30, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this
Thank you Aybar for the semi-smile. We need every small reward we can get.
By Justin
July 30, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this
dont get excited Andrew jones is going to strike out
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this
“own purpose” or “on purpose?”
By krath
July 30, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this
I make terrible predictions, but I said on this blog two months ago that Glavine would run out of gas late in the season. At least i was right about something!
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this
Like Aybar’s hit. 7-2. You never know what may happen. The Braves need to go back on the road. That’s the only place they win.
7-3 Now. Edgar with a single and an Rbi.
By Calvin
July 30, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this
I really wish Frenchy would learn to take a pitch when a pitcher is struggling to throw strikes.
By Chop Chop
July 30, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this
Francoeur steps up to the plate. His team has rallied to score three runs off of future Hall of Famer Tom Glavine, who is obviously struggling with his control.
As Francoeur stands in the box, he tells himself, “Don’t swing at the first pitch, Jeff. Don’t swing at the first pitch.” Glavine comes set and delivers.
Francoeur’s mind: “SWING, DAMMIT!”
Inning over.
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this
left on base this series: 3 fri, 4 sat, 5 already today …… for atl its little or nothing with runners on bases, while the mets hitting grand slams and s**t
By Calvin
July 30, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this
Abreu and Lidle has been traded(http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2534459)
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this
frenchy’s at bat is indicative of the whole year. You got Glavine on the ropes, he can’t throw any strikes and Jeff swings at the 1st pitch and grounds to the SS.
I hate to say this guys, and tell me if I’m wrong. I think McCann is a way better than Andruw, and Andruw has been in the league for 10-11 years
By Calvin
July 30, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this
Abreu and Lidle have been traded to the Yankees.
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 02:17 PM | Link to this
Better hitter, I meant to say. Sorry.
By MEB
July 30, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this
Brooklyn Drooler… I don’t think anybody is in the mood for your dribble.
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this
DOB:
I found Van Hunt on iTunes last year and have worn out several of his tracks. I wish I’d mad last night but couldn’t. Any idea of any other local dates?
Also, the wife and I went to Ryan Adams at the Tabernacle last year. SUPERB show. I’d love to go tonight (wife isn’t up for it) so if you are aware of an available ticket, do holler.
TB
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this
DOB:
I found Van Hunt on iTunes last year and have worn out several of his tracks. I wish I’d mad last night but couldn’t. Any idea of any other local dates?
Also, the wife and I went to Ryan Adams at the Tabernacle last year. SUPERB show. I’d love to go tonight (wife isn’t up for it) so if you are aware of an available ticket, do holler.
TB
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this
DOB:
I found Van Hunt on iTunes last year and have worn out several of his tracks. I wish I’d mad last night but couldn’t. Any idea of any other local dates?
Also, the wife and I went to Ryan Adams at the Tabernacle last year. SUPERB show. I’d love to go tonight (wife isn’t up for it) so if you are aware of an available ticket, do holler.
TB
By eware
July 30, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this
DOB, the Ryan Adams concert last night was f-ing outstanding. You’ll have a great time. Very rockin’. Plus, any show that covers “Hickory Wind” is awesome, in my book.
I’m not sure I would recommend visiting the land of Buddha before the show as a few things with the lights make for a bad freakout.
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this
Folks,
I’m still planning to get a couple of season tickets for the remainder of the season. Truth be told, I tried every venue today around 11 am trying to find even a single ticket for today.
I can’t help myself. I feel so good when I’m at The Ted. That includes when we get our A** whupped. Man, I could do with an apartment there.
(If this isn’t registering with you, you’ll have to look at the tail end of the last blog.)
TB
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this
I have to agree with you guys…just an awful, awful at bat by Frenchy. The last thing you want to do in that situation is swing at the first pitch. Seriously, it is like the first pitch is heroin for Frenchy. The dude just can’t get off it.
Regards,
Jason
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this
Once again: Wilson who?
By Jimbo
July 30, 2006 02:48 PM | Link to this
You may not like the trade of Wilson but at least don’t take it out on Aybar and Baez. Give them a chance to prove what they can do in Atlanta. I don’t always agree with BC & JS but they know what they are doing 95% of the time. I still think you will see another trade before Monday at 4pm. Aybar 2 for 3 today so far. DOB I got the last Johnny Cash CD, you were right ,its great.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this
Starting pitcher is what we need.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this
Can Frenchy come through?
By Lew
July 30, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this
8-6. I guess the music ain’t over yet. Leave the music on. Jimmy-I re-sent to both emails. Hope it works. Go Braves.
By Lew
July 30, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this
I meant leave the lights on. My heart can’t take these 112-110 games. I feel like I’m watching the NBA.
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this
Some fun, at last today…
Did Aybar do anything the first time up? I know he knocked in two runs on the at bat before the last one but, was that his first or second?
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this
journalist returns from watering the plants and once again it is a ballgame. Only a two run deficit. much better. baby shiell must continue to hold the mets.
By Calvin
July 30, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this
TommyB, Aybar is 2-3. He popped up in his first at-bat.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this
TommyB,
That was his 2nd. He popped up in his 1st AB, to the SS I believe.
Regards,
Jason
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this
I’m of the opinion that we should NEVER AGAIN pitch to Beltran. Intentional walk every AB.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this
Is there a law in GA against the Braves getting Beltran out? What the flying heck is going on? Of course, he is facing AAA pitchers, but still. Holy freakin cow.
Regards,
Jason
By Nick
July 30, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this
Remember when Chipper used to be the bane of the Mets existence?
Braves, meet Carlos Beltran. Anyone know if Beltran has an embarrassing nickname that we can chant at him when he comes up to bat? Paul? Samuel?
By Lew
July 30, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this
Glass-I agree. They say there should be one player you don’t let beat you. Walk the sucker. Jason, it looks just as bad here in Vermont. I hope the Braves don’t do something dumb in the offseason like signing Maddux and Glavine to give us a veteran presence, though.
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this
Glass, Lew:
Nice observation. Let’s not pitch to Beltran any more this year.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this
Lew,
What part of VT are you from? I went to school in Burlington and loved the area. I haven’t been there in a few years, but I used to visit on Memorial Day weekend. I am still in touch with a few people both at UVM and Champlain.
Regards,
Jason
By Tony Almeida
July 30, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this
Wilson who?
By Lew
July 30, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this
Three hits for Aybar. Do we now have a lead off hitter? Is it just possible JS really has a clue?
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this
I think Aybar played some left field at AAA Las Vegas along with 3rd and 2nd.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this
lew, thanks for sharing the art. good stuff. lew is right about maddux and glavine - we can look at their pictures next year we don’t need them here. this team will have presence aplenty with an aging chipper. now, if the braves get a lead … if they get a lead … will anybody be able to hold it? never mind … more runners left on base. this aybar … why does he not swing at bad pitches? hm m m m …
By Lew
July 30, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this
Jason, I live in Randolph, about 1 hr from Burlington on I89. My wife is Dean of Admissions at the Vermont Law School. Moved here five years ago after 35 years in Georgia and Florida. I just can’t adapt to being a Red Sox fan, I guess I’ve followed the Braves for too long.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this
The Braves just can’t get the one big hit to really get back in the game or tie it up. Where are those 50 HRs they have hit this month???
Regards,
Jason
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 30, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this
I wonder if there is any way John Smoltz could be a player/pitching coach next year.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this
I am hoping JS trades for a starting pitcher (even Redman from KC would do…at least he’s got a winning record). I’m not a fan of this “promote-a-starter” each week thing we’ve been up to lately.
By Lew
July 30, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this
Well, maybe Yates is turning out to be a keeper. Thanks, Jimmy, glad you enjoyed the art. Maybe we will get to see Baez today.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this
Redman couldn’t be any worse than Hudson or Sosa.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this
Lew,
Yeah, I know where Randolph is. VT is pretty cool, but it must be an adjustment from GA and FL. I know what you mean about adjusting to a Red Sox fan…living in Maine, there aren’t many of us Braves fans around. I am a fanatic…can’t help it. My wife and I have done a bit of travel together, including a few European countries. She recently asked me what my favorite vacation spot is out of the places we have visited. Without hesitation, I answered “The Ted”! We were there for the first time in 04 and it was incredible. I have seen them play in Boston and Montreal, but it was nothing like watching them at home with 40,000 fellow fans doing the chop.
Regards,
Jason
By Lew
July 30, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Glass, but Dayton Moore knows us too well. The price tag might be more than we want to pay.
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 03:33 PM | Link to this
Lew, My sister lives in Attleboro (before Boston). She’s now a bona fide Red Sox fan. As for me, I’ve lived here in ATL since mid-eighties. Braves have been my team since late-seventies. But, I’ve always had about five teams I follow every year. I’ve been lucky to have had the Red Sox in group since ‘99. Hey, if this is any help, Greenville is now a Red Sox affiliate.
Enjoy the Sox. But STAYing a Braves fan is also possible.
By Lew
July 30, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
My wife is on a business trip to Baltimore and is at the White Sox-Orioles game. She just met Boog Powell at his resturant. I wonder if we could trade Pete and Skip for Boog. They all sell BBQ and Boog might have some pop left in his bat. Isn’t he about as old as Julio?
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
Glass,
I agree. We can’t think about the WC if we keep running the likes of Schiell or whatever the heck his name is out there. Seriously, I do not think trading Hudson would be a sign of giving up, especially if they could get something decent for him. I mean, we must be able to pay someone else $6 mill or less to have a 5.25 ERA. He hasn’t been very good for 1.5 years. With his salary really escalating in 08, he may have added value as his contract is reaonsable for next year.
Regards,
Jason
By gotigers72
July 30, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this
‘Bout time they got rid of Jorge. He came in out of shape and never got it together. He had one good year and that was it. Million dollar stuff, 5 cent brain. I hope they can get something for him.
Shiell, and probably Chucky too, need to go back to Richmond and try to get it together. I hope when Davies comes back he has learned how to keep the ball down and how to throw strikes. He has a 6.75 ERA, he may need to stay at Richmond too. Is there any doubt now that pitching got them their 14 straight division titles? I just can’t figure out what has happened to Hudson. Is he tipping pitches? He says he’s not hurt, but is he? Something ain’t right. You don’t just go from being a 20 game winner to being as bad as he’s been. Heck, you don’t even go down as far as he has from the beginning of this year to the last 10 games. HoRam is HoRam, an inconsistent nibbler. Thomson looks like he is done. Davies needs to learn how to pitch. Chucky too. I believe Bill Fischer missed the boat on Shiell. Smoltz is Smoltz. One of the best in the business. You know this year is killing him. If I were the Braves, I would take most of Reitsma’s salary for not telling them about his injury earlier. That was moronic.
The Braves downfall this year has come down to three things, 1 - Pitching 2 - Pitching and 3 - Pitching. For the firsdt time in a long time us Braves fans have to say “Wait ‘til next year. That’s hard to make myself say, but 14 in a row ain’t too shabby.
I’m officially off of my soapbox now.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this
It appears the Cardinals are close to getting Belliard from the Indians. They were one of the teams interested in Giles a while back…
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this
Jason, Glass:
I have to disagree, in the sense that Bobby must be wanting to accomplish two things.
One being to eat up some innings.
Two being to see more of what Schiell is made of.
I can’t fault him. Plus I think Schiell shows promise.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this
I’m all for seeing what a player has got, but we currently have 2 of 5 starters on the DL neither of which have been exactly lights out, Hudson sucks (I’m not recently on this bandwagon; been there all year), and who knows which Horacio will show up.
By TennesseePaul
July 30, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this
Good bye to Jorge Sosa! We’ve had three addition by subtraction moves this season. Reitsma, Jordan and now Sosa.
I like this line up. I’d rather have a healthy Chipper in there, but this doesn’t look bad at all. Aybar is proving his worth right out of the gates.
I’m gonna miss Betemit. But not too much. He’s out here in LA now, so technically I’ll see a lot more of him, so I can’t miss him entirely.
I like DOBs comparison of Betemit and Aybar. At 23 Betemit was struggling in the minors. At 23 Aybar is producing in the Majors. That alone speaks volumes. And now we have speed at the top of the line up. Speed and a guy who knows his strike zone. He gets on base way better than Giles or Betemit.
Now, let’s do this Braves! We’ve brought the tying run up many a time… We’re still in this game.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 30, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this
I think we go after Redman, unless as was stated the price is too high, or Kip Wells from Pittsburgh. I am willing to bet the Pirates would want some decent prospects in return.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this
Glass,
I have been right there with ya on Hudson. TennPaul, I agree…we just haven’t quite been able to get that big 3-run homer…where are those 50 HRs we hit this month?
Regards,
Jason
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this
Some of our bullpen troubles can be placed squarely on the rotation. “Relief pitchers” aren’t supposed to be used in the 2nd or 3rd inning several times a week. It’s hit or miss with many relievers. You leave them out there for 2 or more innings you’re asking for it.
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 30, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this
What kind of nightmare are we living? Not more than a month ago the starters were pitching lights out to only watch the bullpen blow game after game. Now, the bullpen is pitching damn near lights out and its the starters blowing game after game. Take away that horrid first two innings and we have outscored the Mutts 6-2. I have said before and I will say it again. It doesn’t matter how good of an offense you have, if you contiuously are behind 4 and 5 runs before you can even get your bats warmed up it places too much pressure on the hittes.
By hk
July 30, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this
… during the game I plot various stats in my trusty spreadsheet, generating team ERA and BA curves, amazing how much they still change inning by inning…
… you blogsters have talked alot over time about how one element of performance can effect another … added some arrows and text boxes, the curves sort of show that chain of events over the last few months …
click here for chart
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this
betemit is batting fifth and playing third base today. there are four ex-braves in the dodgers’ starting lineup.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this
Sorry, I am not near a TV…can someone tell me what happened in the bottom of the 6th? I see that we got two hits…did we strand 2 more? I can’t use Gamecase either as I am not at a location with broadband…arrgh!!!
Regards,
Jason
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this
LaRouche 0-10 4K’s this series.
By journalist jimmy smith
July 30, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this
hk, you are right that starting pitching is in total collapse … again.
By paluka
July 30, 2006 04:03 PM | Link to this
Any chance of sending Hudson to Boston for Crisp?
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this
Not Aybar’s fault. Please no one say “Wilson would’ve had that.”
By SUPERGRASS
July 30, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this
Braves sixth. - - An.Jones struck out. - Francoeur bunt single to short. - McCann flied out to left fielder Woodward. - M.Diaz singled to center, Francoeur to third. - Feliciano pitching. - LaRoche struck out. thats exactly it JASON 2 HITS NO RUNS
By TommyB
July 30, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this
hk:
Dude, what a nice job on charting/analysis!
One question. Did you rule out Chipper getting hot as the offensive spark?
Please keep up the Superb Work.
TB
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
I’d take Clement and Crisp for Hudson and players to be named later.
By Lew
July 30, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
Well, isn’t that interesting? According to the graphic on TBS, Baez has 4+ years of service. Unless I am radically mistaken, all the Braves have to do to keep him is to offer him arbitration. Apparently he may not be a rent a player. Resign Wickman and all of a sudden next year the Braves have a bullpen with Paronto and Yates. Add Aybars hits, rbis and run scored and maybe JS doesn’t have Alzheimer’s.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
Baez could use a trim on those eyebrows.
By paluka
July 30, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this
Who else would have interest in Hudson? perhaps St.Louis, Toronto,Detroit? Does anyone else have any ideas? By trading him does not necesarily mean giving up on the wild card. I just think it would be good to move his salary now when teams may be desperate to get someone.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this
Baez’s agent is not Scott Boras, which means we may be able to resign him.
By JasonInMaine
July 30, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this
Thanks Grass, I appreciate you taking the time to fill me in.
Regards,
Jason
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this
Baez started slow but did a good job. I thought he was decent when he was in Tampa. I lived there for a while and he was all they had for pitching.
If you trade Hudson to the Sox then you really have to get another starter.
The angels need another bat and have been shopping Ervin Santana. Give them LaRouche and Giles for Ervin Santana or Lackey. Let Thorman play 1B.
By paluka
July 30, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this
I agree that if Hudson is traded the Braves would need another starter but the way Hudson has been throwing anything has to be better and if we could get Crisp for him than all the better.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this
The July trades so far are bold moves by JS standards (not counting McGriff, of course). I wonder if moves like this would’ve helped us go deeper in the post-season. Tom Martin in ‘04? Kent Merker in ‘03? I don’t think so.
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this
Let’s see if Larouche has the nad to do something against Billy Wagner.
He has the talent, to me he’s just a bad ballplayer that’s too inconsistent. He can prove me wrong right here.
9-6 with 2 on and 2 out
By TennesseePaul
July 30, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this
Anyone know if Beltran has an embarrassing nickname that we can chant at him when he comes up to bat?
Melanoma Head.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this
I should have said, trades like these in previous seasons.
By MEB
July 30, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this
Brooklyn… Larounche singled in the 3rd inning.
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this
0-11 5 k’s for LaRouche. I could’ve scripted it.
LaRouche SUCKS!
By Stanford
July 30, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this
Lew, regarding Baez, I don’t know… maybe there is some kind of technicality, but if you look at his stats he pitched 50 innings in 01 and more than that every year since; seems like he’s in his 6th year.
By Lew
July 30, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
Glass-Baez is not yet free agent eligible-all we have to do to retain him is offer him arbitration. He will not be exceptionally cheap, but apparently it is the Braves’ option, not his.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this
I don’t know about nicknames for Beltran, but I do know I wanna see Bobby flash 4 fingers and McCann extend his mit for the intentional walk when he comes up.
By Carolina Lady
July 30, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this
I don’t think Wickman is coming back next year. Chip just mentioned that Wickman had consdiered retiring at the end of last year and, inless he changes his mind, will retire at the end of this season. He didn’t specifically say, but his tone led me to believe that if was from talking with Wickman.
Lew! What beautiful artwork!! Many thanks for the link! :-)))
Journalist Jimmy Smith, Baby Seal and I have been fully occupied! The oil and filters are changed, fixed that little problem with the starter, played catch (the Braves should sign him!), played in the pond and fished. After services this morning (what a well-mannered little fellow he is!), we had a nice picnic, went for a short boat ride (get that? I took a seal out on a boat?!), played in the pond some more, fished (again), and now he’s taking a nap. Before we go fish again.
Forgot: I also heard Chip say that in order to put Chipper on the DL, the Braves had to more B Jordan to the 60-day DL, so I don’t think we’ll be seeing him anymore this year.
DOB, you do the best job! Many thanks from the troops here in DOB Blogland!
Brian, I’ve never followed basketball much. I know that’s heresy in NC, but they’ve gotta catch me before they can hang me! :-)))
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 30, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this
Yeah, LaRoche struck out again, but don’t jump on his case. Andruw came up and took three terrible swings while Adam had to fight off a 96mph fastball and 98mph fastball.
What a horrible weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!11
By hk
July 30, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this
TommyB,
… yes, Chipper came back from injury at about the low point of that red (BA) curve, started hurting again right around the peak of same …
By Robert(Justice Is The Best)
July 30, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this
I swear if Pratt leadoffs the 9th inning I will sceam. Oh,hell, what does it matter. Another run just scored. If this game wasn’t over, it is now.
By Lew
July 30, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this
According to TBS, his service is 4+ years. If this is true, he is arbitration eligible but arbitration is much different for a player who is under 6 years of service. If I am not mistaken, the Braves offer arbitration (like they did with Giles this year) name a figure and the player names a counterfigure and the arbitrator decides. If under 6 years of service (and they go by how much of a year you play) you can’t reject the arbitration like a free agent. Someone correct me if TBS or I am wrong.
By Glass Half Full
July 30, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this
I think Wickman is known for saying he is going to retire every year, though. As far as Baez, he’s closed before and is 28 or 29. If we can keep him, keep him. What other options are there for 2007?
By TennesseePaul
July 30, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this
The bullpen sure has been shored up. This is the best it’s looked all season. Now all we need is some reliable starting. If our starters get on a role and start throwing with a 3 ERA instead of a 5 era, we’ll win a ton the rest of the season. It’s all on the Starters from here on out.
I’m not sure if I agree that James needs more time in the minors. He slaughtered the minors. His numbers down there are down right insane. He needed better hitters to pitch against. Now he’s got them. I think he’ll turn it around. He’s had one awful outing and a few good outings.
By Brooklyn Braves brawler
July 30, 2006 04:33 PM |