Braves

By Greg

August 2, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

Is there anyone in the bullpen who can start? What about Villareal? Where is Stockman? Maybe Yates could start. From our fifth starter, all we need is five decent innings. Use McBride and Ray for 6 and 7, then Baez and Wickman to finish.

By Huddy's the key

August 2, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

If Hudson can even rekindle a little of the “rode hard for 9 innings” magic he had at the beginning of the season from here on out, it’ll go a long way to stablizing the rotation.

Remember, we have 20+ blown saves this year; if we’d had the bullpen that we have now since the beginning, imagine where we’d be now. The WC is not out of reach.

Go Bravos!

By Lew

August 2, 2006 11:51 AM | Link to this

What happened to Cormier? He at least pitched fair in his emergency starts. Not great, but better than Shiell.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

Uh, what 9 innings at the beginning of the season? Didn’t Hudson get his brains kicked in on opening day, even with a huge lead?

By Spider29

August 2, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

The starters have reeked lately. When the 20 blown saves happened, the starters were pitching pretty well. They were leaving games with leads only to have them vanish at the hands of the bullpen. Now it seems like the situation is reversed. It’s looking like we aren’t going to be able to count on Hudson to “rekindle the magic” and maybe Chuckie isn’t as ready for prime-time as we thought. With Ramirez you still never know which pitcher will show up. All you can say for Shiell is that he seems to be trying hard. Smoltz is the only dependable guy. What’s new about that? It seems unreal that our GM couldn’t pick up even somebody like a Cory Lidle at the deadline without having to give up much. But I sure give him credit for improving the bullpen. Maybe we can get on another roll in Pittsburg, go to Cincy and continue what we did to them in Atlanta recently. But then we have to come home. It’ll be interesting.

By Snowball's Chance

August 2, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

The fact that JS got anything for Sosa shows how pathetic pitching is throughout baseball.

By Spider29

August 2, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

Snowball, great comment. The kid we got for Sosa may never do a thing but then, neither did Sosa this year.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 12:08 PM | Link to this

Throughout most of the Braves’ unprecedented 15 year run there has been one constant: Starting pitchers 1-5 have given the Braves at least a 50/50 shot to win. That constant began to wane in 2003 when Shane Reynolds started the season as the #5 guy. 2004 rebounded when #5 starter Paul Byrd finished 8-7, but the wheels really fell off with all of the injuries last season. And this year… well we don’t have to discuss that much further, do we? I think Smoltz, James and HoRa still give you a better than 50/50 shot, but Shiell isn’t a Major League starter and Huddy is a complete mystery. And if, by some supernatural means, Hud finds his way back to some semblance of his former self, we still have NO real 5th starter. At this juncture, the Braves simply can’t afford to pray their way through every 5th game. I congratulate JS on transforming a little league bullpen into a reasonable, effective collection of arms. He still, however, has to find one more starter to bridge the gap to Davies. Remember, too, there’s no guarantee that Davies, who’s missed a large portion of playing time, will be effective upon his return. One more starter, John… you’ve done some of your best work in Augusts past. One more starter…

By Andy

August 2, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

What about Lerew, what happened to him???

By Miranda

August 2, 2006 12:16 PM | Link to this

I went to the game in Pearl last night which I’ve been to most of them this season. Kyle loooked really good! It was great to see him back on the mound!

By geauxbraves2000

August 2, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

Call up a starter. If he doesn’t perform, send him back down and call someone else up. If he doesn’t perform, send him down and call someone else up. Show these kids that if they don’t perform in the big leagues they won’t be around long. Stop rewarding bad performances with more starts. If I sucked at my job I guarantee they’d get someone else.

I don’t recall HoRam being pounced in back to back games recently, so maybe the dominant HoRam will show up tonight.

Geaux Braves!!

By Brent

August 2, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

I’ll be thoroughly disappointed if we trot out Jason Shiell again on Saturday - especially in that home run box in Cincinnati.

If he wins, I’ll be thrilled to eat my words; but right now, pitching Shiell seems equivalent to waving a white flag.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

I think what we have to realize here is that for 10 years we had Glavine Maddux and Smolty-in all likelihood three HOF pitchers. I’m not positive, but this may be the only time in baseball history that 3 HOF pitchers were together on the same staff for that long a period of time. I’m not sure it will ever be duplicated.

By Craig

August 2, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

John S did good in improving the Braves bullpen, but he did nothing to improve the rotatation. We can’t afford to give every 5th game away with Shiell on the mound. I know there were no big names available, but almost anyone would be better than Shiell. Is he THE BEST we have from our farm? If that’s the case…that is very, very sad.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

Thomson was just diagnosed with fraying of the labrum. No surgery, but I bet he’s gone for this season. Not sure who would pick him up as a free agent.

By BirdDawg

August 2, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

Man all of you Braves apologists need to get a life.

They stink. They are 6 games under .500. They aren’t going to make the playoffs!

Schuerholtz has had one good trade in about 6 years.

ONE!

And it was for Renteria.

He’s no longer a genius. And Bobby Cox gave up his GOAT moniker when he choked away the ‘96 World Series, and then preceded to choke away the ‘97 and ‘98 playoffs, along with the ‘00, ‘02, ‘03, ‘04, and yes, the ‘05 playoffs as well, losing every one of those years to teams with inferior talent.

The Braves have won nothing of consequence.

Winning your division 100 times in a row wouldn’t make you a champion, unless you actually WON the championship!

God, you people are so freaking deluded you can’t see straight.

Much like the Braves of this year.

Shuerholtz had a chance to unload some really awful guys to contenders and get back some really good prospects.

Tim Hudson has been a total and unbelievable bust (Billy Beane strikes again!), and I’m not amazed that Schuerholtz was fleeced by Beane in that deal. Beane saw that Hudson was on the decline and got rid of him. Schuerholtz could have had the chance to do that this year and passed!

Schuerholtz is not a genius. Bobby Cox is a blunderer.

These are your Atlanta Braves, winners of only ONE World Championship.

And I’m sorry, if one of you apologists bring up 14 straight, I’m going to hurl. They won the vast majority of those divisions against the worst teams in baseball. The one year someone puts together a decent team and what happens? The Braves are out of it by August. Oh yeah, and that happened another year, too, but a strike prevented the Braves from losing.

God people, you can’t see the forest for the blessed trees!

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

14 Straight. Go hurl.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

Varitek’s out 4-6 weeks after a knee injury, and Boston is in dire need of a stop-gap catcher. I wonder what JS could get for Pratt? He’d probably pass through waivers relatively easily, and I, for one, would much rather see Brayan Pena spelling McCann…

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

VOR-That works for me. Pena is ready, if only for a back up position. He’s proved all he’s going to in AAA.

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 2, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

Lew, how bout a game of solitaire?

By Boomer

August 2, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

It was great to see that the Braves pitchers did not walk a batter last night. I wonder when the last time that happened?

It was also nice to see a closer that did not look stunned or scared when things got tough in the ninth! Kolb, Reitsma, Sosa and even Farnsworth looked like “deer in the headlights” when things got tough.

It’s also nice to have a player with more walks than strikeouts leading off and Giles looks relaxed in the #2 hole.

Don’t give up there are 2 months left. As bad as we were last week no wildcard team was able to bury us. This is a weak wild card year in the national league so there is still hope.

Just My Thoughts.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

Dog-Or is thaT bIRdAWG? gO HURL.

By geauxbraves2000

August 2, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

I would rather have had the chance to win the world series 14 years in a row. So what if the team only one one title. Of course I would’ve like to see them win more, but at least they had a chance. If you don’t make it to postseason you cannot win the WS.

With the exception of the Blue Jays, the Marlins, the Twins and the Yankees, who else has won more than one title since 1982? That’s 24 years with only 4 teams with more than one title.

If they don’t make the playoffs this year, they’ll join 22 other teams that didn’t make it either.

Geaux Braves!!

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 2, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

Birdawg? you feeling ok? I think spending so much time in front of your computer is frying your brain…good god man…get out a little!!

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

Dog-It’s obvious you have a problem with me and my opinions. Do you have the balls to tell me what they are under your own name rather than a tv character? Dips##t.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

I am just wondering… Once Aybar strikes out to leadoff last night’s game, Giles steps to the plate with nobody on, and Edgar on deck. How is that any different than what he’s been doing, or not doing, for most of the season? (Except now there is already 1 out…)

By Greg

August 2, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

I wonder if BirdDawg will say the same about his favorite team if it wins its division and fails to make the Series or win the Series. Originally, there were two teams in the post season, one AL, one NL. Then in 1969 there were four. There are now eight. The fact that the Braves have even been to the World Series three times in that era is a major accomplishment. Mark my words, as good as the Mets are this year, they won’t make the World Series. They don’t have any dominant starters. (Pedro is a shadow of himself.) They won’t win the pennant. My bet is San Diego does. Jake Peavy and Chris Young back to back in a five game series. That could be nasty, even for a team as offensively powerful as the Mets.

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 2, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

no problemo with your opinion, but when you see them on every other post…well..

So much anger, I think Lew needs a hug.

By Boomer

August 2, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this

Please remind us who we gave up for Hudson (14 game winner last year) in the fleecing J.S. took from Beane.

I beleive it was C.T. (no recent sighting), Juan Cruz (sent to minors last year and traded this year), and a young lefty name Myers that did not make the team last year.

Sure Hudson has been a dissapointment but the trade was not a fleecing (signing him to a long term contract might have been wrong) but the trade was a good one for Atlanta.

By Mets Stink

August 2, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

Andy

Lerew was demoted to AA. He had an era over 9 in AAA.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

It seems that you’re the only one who comments on the frequency of my posts. For your information, I am pretty much a shut in. I’m not sure why my presence offends you. If you don’t like what I say, then respond to me with constructive critcism of these views. Otherwise, ignore me.

By KneeJerk

August 2, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Dog, you are correct. There was no “fleecing”. Meyer 3-3 with a 5+ ERA in AAA Thomas .257 1HR 29RBI in AAA Cruz 3-6 4.84 ERA Just where did these 3 fit into our future?

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 2, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

Ohhh LewLew, settle down now, you be ok. Peace Out.

By rob

August 2, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

The A’s won more than one in last the 24 years.

The Old English D Train will win their 2nd this year.

By Braves20

August 2, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

Lew - Good points about our HOF trio. The only thing close I can remember was the Cleveland staff of the early and middle 50’s with Wynn, Feller, Lemon etc. and the guy who would have been the best of the bunch until he took a line drive in the eye - Herb Score.

By Alex

August 2, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

Thank you for pointing out what Oakland got in return for Hudson. And that would be two guys playing in AAA and a starter for the D-backs. Anyway, Hudson is a complete mystery. If he never finds his way again then we’re definitely not making the post-season this year or the next.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this

Somebody help me out with this… Most of the season, Marcus comes to the plate with nobody on and Edgar on deck, and he’s “uncomfortable.” Last night, he steps to the plate with nobody on, 1 out, Edgar on deck, and he’s “relaxed.” Why? Could he leadoff if we just spot the opponent an out? What if we lead off with the pitcher and then start over with Marcus? Would he feel “relaxed” with that? I’m just curious…

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

VOR, it’s between the ears.

By GO HOME

August 2, 2006 01:14 PM | Link to this

Birddawg, I recommend you move back to Philadelphia, where you can get lost in the trees, as you say. I mean how many times during our run have the Phillies made the playoffs? How many times have the eagles reached and lost in the NFC Championship game during the Braves run? One more thing Kincaide, I mean Birddawg, please quit saying the same jokes day after day about Rich Mckay being seen in Wal-Mart looking for a wide receiver.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

CLady, with all due respect to Marcus, it’s a lack between the ears. I really love his unbridled enthusiasm, but he’s not the sharpest bulb in the creek. I wonder if he even realizes he’s not in the long term (even short term) plans for this team…

By midnite

August 2, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if Travis Smith is still in our organization? He did OK for us filling in at #5 spot last year.

By SRF

August 2, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

It was a fun game to watch last night. I know it was ONLY the Pirates, but Atlanta looked good. Smoltz did well and the bullpen did well. The best thing of all to me was that even given a few funny bounces in the 9th inning, both the defense and Wickman kept composure and just worked through it. There have been games where a few bad hops would have led to a 5 run inning. I thought the new kid at third did a good job of staying with that wicked hop off of the front of the bag and kept it from squirting into foul territory where another run could have scored.

That being said - I still predict a swoon here at the end because they are just not as good as the Mets and maybe not even Philly or Florida.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

I dunno, VOR. I don’t know him well enough to say. I love his enthusiastic hustle, though. He may not be 100% but he gives a 100% of whatever he has. :-)

By TDub

August 2, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

VOR,

“Bulb in the creek?”

By Head Coach

August 2, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

Pratt is going nowhere. McCann is playing on a bad ankle that could go at any time. Pratt has a bum ankle too , thats why we have three catchers. Pena can be called up in a pinch when needed. Smoltz , Glavine , Maddux and Avery ( before his arm fell off) were the four horsemen of the apocalypse. We will not see four starters of that caliber again for a long time. I do believe that Smoltz , Glavine and Maddux will all end up in the Hall of Fame.

By Ron Roberts

August 2, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

If I know of a radio station who’s programming I don’t like, I don’t tune in.

Birddawg… … stop logging in to read Braves’ fans optimism and discussion, okay?

That’ll solve your ills with what is written here.

By BirdDawg

August 2, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

Okay, to the idiot who thinks I’m John Kincaid…

First off, I was born and raised in Athens, Georgia, my name ain’t John Kincaid, and I have more ties to Georgia and especially UGA than any of you sons and daughters of filthy carpetbaggers.

The one thing I’m not is an apologist, I refuse to be. Not about my Dawgs, and certainly not about the biggest set of chokers in baseball postseason history, with all due respect to the spectacular choke job done by the hated Yankees in 1996.

ONce again, you people cannot see the forest for the blessed trees. You are so blinded by your homerism that you cannot see what is front of your face.

You’re worse than Red Sox fans.

By BirdDawg

August 2, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this

Meant of course, the Yankees of ‘04, the choke job in ‘96 was all Bobby Cox.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

TDub: brightest bulb, sharpest knife, swiftest canoe… Pick your cliche…

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with the article, the braves needed to get starting, Tim is a great pitcher he is just having an off year, Horacio has great game but then has awful games, Chuck is a rookie, Shiell isnt good enough, Thomson injured, Davies injured, and Hampton injured.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

As to Travis Smith, he was DFA’d in June and chose, as was his right, not to report to Richmond, making him a free agent. He then signed with St. Louis and was assigned to their AAA team in Memphis, where he’s 4-5 with 4.35 ERA in 12 games. Maybe not the best career move…

By Bill in VA

August 2, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this

I saw a hungry young (backup) catcher, Brayan Pena on Monday night in Richmond. I’d like to see him spell McCann, rather than Pratt. Energy is the difference. Monday night he won the game with a 2 out walk off homer. Michael Ryan kept the R-Braves in it with a lay out flat catch in the top of the 10th, reminiscent of Andruw. Will Startup looked strong & confident. Looking forward to seeing these 3 in Atlanta.

By Head Coach

August 2, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this

Just a quickpoint.Back in 94/95 if you were to ask Maddux , Glavine or Smoltz who had the nastiest stuff on the mound you would get a unanimous answer : Steve Avery. Thats how great they really were.

By BB FAN

August 2, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

BirdDawg,

The Atlanta Braves are the envy of every team in baseball except the Yankees. However, I bet they are even envious of the Braves ability to develope prospects.

The fact that the Braves have won a WS ring in the last 15 years makes them one (1) of only nine (9) teams to do so. I guess if the Braves are such a joke, then what does that make those other 21 teams??

The Yankees, Blue Jays and Marlins are the only teams to have more than 1 WS ring in those 15 years. The Yankees earned it 1996, but bought the ring in ‘98, ‘99 and ‘00. The Marlins bought it in ‘97 but earned it ‘03. The Blue Jays are the only team to earn more than 1 WS ring (‘92 and ‘93). So I guess that really makes 29 other teams worst than a joke.

And the Yankees are a joke. They have had a payroll double of everybody every year and still not won it all in 5 years.

The Red Sox are close behind the Yankees as they have been buying top free agents and soon to be free agents (through trades) every year but still only have one ring.

The Mets are probably worst than anybody though. They have been signing top free agents and soon to be free agents (through trades) every year but still have not won a thing. In fact, they have not even won a damn division title since 1988.

Any team should be able to buy a WS ring by signing the top free agents and soon to be free agents (through trades) every year. Those teams seem to screw that up. At least the Braves have been building from within.

And for your information, the Braves were only 6 games behind the Expos in 1994 and closing the gap. However, they were in the lead for the Wild Card, so they would have made the Playoffs anyway. They could have won the WS in ‘94…Nobody knows.

By robin

August 2, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

One of Schuerholz’s better trades that was criticized tremendously at the time was when he had to trade Millwood for salary reasons, and all he got back was a minor league cathcer nobody ever heard of named Estrada. Estrada became an All-Star, and though he became expendable b/c of the excellent McCann, he continues to perform well in AZ. Hopefully this judgment of minor league talent will also pan out with Aybar. (HR last night for Betemit)

Then again, only getting Villareal and Cormier for Estrada has been no trip to Hollywood!~

By KC

August 2, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

Anybody notice how much more comfortable Giles seems to be in the #2 slot? He has admitted that he’s not comfortable leading off, and from what we’ve seen, it doesn’t look like he’s blowing smoke. So when Chipper comes back, why not hit Renteria in the leadoff spot, and Giles #2?

Renteria’s hit leadoff before (on a regular basis), and might feel more comfortable there than Giles. There’s no advantage I can see to having Giles hit before Renteria. Yeah, ‘Rent’ is a good RBI guy with a little pop in his bat, but so is Giles when he’s right.

In fact Renteria and Giles are remarkably similar hitters.

• Both have 15-20 HR power.

• Both hit a lot of doubles.

• Both have decent speed.

• Both are .300 hitters (by nature)

• Both like to hit the ball the other way.

Renteria is on pace to put up almost the exact same numbers that Giles put up in his last 2 full (not including his injury-shortened 2004 season) seasons. There’s very little to separate these two players offensively, except that one of them has been comfortable and in a good rhythm all year (this season), and one hasn’t.

If there’s a chance that Renteria might be a little bit more comfortable in the leadoff spot than Giles, why not flip them in the order once Chipper comes back?

By KC

August 2, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

Just want to point out that when we talk about John Shuerholz’s ability to judge talent, or when we commend or criticize a certain trade… we’re really talking about the entire Braves coaching & scouting staff and some of the other front office personnel.

JS is one of those leaders who believes in placing quality people in important roles, and then listening to them. He trusts his scouting and coaching staffs a lot. He still wears the pants and makes the final call on all transactions, but when a move like the Betemit for Aybar/Baez deal is made, you can be certain that there were more members of the Braves’ scouting and coaching staffs that were in favor of the deal than were not.

As GM, he gets the credit of the blame, but the Braves organization under JS’s leadership, the opinions of the scouting and coaching staff weigh very, very heavily into every decision. Check out JS’s book if you haven’t already. Good stuff.

By BB FAN

August 2, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

Don’t get me wrong, I am not happy that the Braves have only one WS ring since 1991, but I am grateful for that one!

In any given year, a team only has a 1 in 30 chance to win it all, so it’s not as easy as some of you people think. When players are asked about the one thing they want to accomplish, they say to win a WS ring. “A WS RING”, just one. And that’s because it’s tough to win just one.

I saw an interview with Tino Martinez the other day. He said he’s still shocked that they won more than one WS ring even though they had all that talent. He said that it takes both talent and luck.

Some of you people (like BirdDawg) act like it’s a team’s right to win a WS ring. You act like every team should have multiple rings. That’s not how it works.

There are only 22 managers in the HISTORY of baseball to win more than 1 WS ring. There have been 650 managers in the history of baseball and only 68 of them have even won a WS ring. I would say Bobby Cox has been a great manager.

Dispite what many fans believe, there were many years (of the 15 year run) that Cox did not have the most talent in his league let alone the majors. He still won 1 WS, 5 NL pennants and 14 division titles with the Braves.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

KC - What’s the difference?!? Why’s he “more relaxed?” For 2 games, he’s still batting in front of Edgar. What has really changed? Giles is a head case with short time left wearing the tomahawk.

By shawn

August 2, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this

When can teams start placing players on waivers to see if they will clear for a trade? Also how long do they have to wait to clear? Anyone know?

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

To expound, if Marcus is seeing different pitches in the 2 hole, that’s one thing. But he’s still got Edgar behind him, and if Aybar’s not on base, which he wasn’t last night, he’s not getting pitched to any differently than on any previous night. If he’s still “more relaxed,” then it becomes a mental thing, which is pretty weak, IMO, for a highly paid professional athlete.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

OK, maybe “head case” is a bit harsh, but if the shoe fits…

By shawn

August 2, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

go to a 4 man rotation for the last two months if need be

By robin

August 2, 2006 02:15 PM | Link to this

I think you’re correct that for whatever reason, Giles looked like his old self in the two hole—3 doubles!! I don’t think it makes him a “head-case—-its just that little bit of added comfort that can spur perform,ance. Now its only one game, but I agree that when Chipper returns, why not try Renteria at lead-off.

Also, great post by the poster who reconizes that it is Schuerholz AND his staff and scouts who jointly make the decision—-though JS pulls the trigger. I imagine Boobby Cox is also closely involved in those decisions.

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

Morning, All. I agree totally, KC. And also with you, VOR, but the fact that his approach doesn’t make sense doesn’t change the fact that it still is what it is. And KC, in answer to your question why not, because if Bobby wasn’t the most stubborn, obstinate manager in the history of the game he would have done so two months ago and we’d likely be in the wild card lead now. Giles will be hitting leadoff as soon as Chipper’s healthy. BTW, I read on the last blog that the blue worms have Journalist Jimmy (Hosta)ge. Shouldn’t we all pitch in and at least send him some pie?

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

I’m afraid the Braves dont have any better choice than putting Giles in the leadoff spot, the other choice is to give the chance to Langerthans, but Thorman is a better hitter.

By KC

August 2, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

In the case of the Estrada for villareal/Cormier deal, JS listened to his scouting staff about Villareal and Cormier, and then took what appeared to be the best offer on the table in the form of relief pitching (which was obviously the team’s greatest need).

Estrada’s trade value was greatly diminished after the back/neck injury last year (from the home plate collision with D.Erstad). That’s a shame, because had he remained healthy, we probably could have gotten the kind of return you would hope for when giving up an all-star catcher.

Problem was, no one knew if he would really be healthy this year. And, for that matter (because of the injury hampered season last year) Estrada only had one season to prove what he could do. In addition to his health concerns, teams had to wonder if he could actually repeat his all-star performance of 2004, healthy or not.

In other words: Estrada’s trade value wasn’t as high as it could have been over the winter. Still, we got (or thought we were getting) 1 maybe 2 quality, reasonably priced bullpen arms in exchange for him. It didn’t work out, but hey… you can’t win em’ all.

Estrada’s injury was unlucky for Estrada, and in one respect… for the Braves. But in another sense, it wasn’t so unlucky after all. If Estrada had been healthy, McCann wouldn’t have been playing everyday in Atlanta. How long would it have taken us to realize McCann’s potential? Or worse… If Estrada had remained healthy, would we have wound up including McCann in a deal with some team looking for catching? After all, McCann wasn’t nearly as highly thought of before coming to Atlanta as a Saltalamachia of someone like that. Estrada’s injury hurt his trade value, but in the end, I think it was actually a stroke of great fortune for Atlanta.

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

Teams can place players on waivers at any time, without their knowledge. They have 48 hours to clear. If no team makes a claim, they can then be traded to any team just as they could’ve before 7/31. If a team claims them, they can be pulled back, a trade can be worked out with the claiming team, or the player and his salary can simply be dumped. If multiple teams claim the player, then, after the 48 hour period, the team with the worst record has “claiming” rights.

By Braves20

August 2, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

re: some comments about “earning” rings. In my very long lifetime, I can recall three W.S. where clearly the best team did not win for whatever reason - 1954 Cleveland, the only team that even approaches the Braves staff of the 90’s; 1960 Yankees and the 1996 Braves. Perhaps there were others where the best team did not win, but those three I remember vividly.

By KC

August 2, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

Voice of Reason:

This game is largely mental… like it or not. I don’t care what the reasons are (mental, physical, or even for or against his religion) for his feeling more comfortable hitting 2nd. I just know that when he’s comfortable and he’s himself… he’s a damn good hitter. So let’s do what we can (with reason) make him comfortable at the plate.

Even if he isn’t to be our 2nd-baseman next year… then do it if for no other reason than to boost his trade value this winter.

By KC

August 2, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

CORRECTION: meant to say “(within reason)”.

By Joey

August 2, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

What scares me is Hudson is so good, but he looks so awful now. I hope he is not going to be the next Steve Avery. Great pitcher with a live arm but tries to pitch through injury and cutting a promising career too short.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

Have no fear, jimmy smith - hartebeest and baby seal are on the way. Hartebeest now sports new special saddle for baby seal to ride in. Has special cooled compartment for fish.

(Grinch, (Hosta)ge: excellent!! :-)))

By Reid Whitaker

August 2, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

Problem is … Cox’s mentality doesn’t allow him to pull a starter early when he clearly shows he hasn’t got it. Here we go with loyalty again. For Cox to take out a starter, he has to allow 5 to 8 runs. Then another problem is Cox’s 1 pitcher per inning mentality. You have to bring in a new reliever every inning no matter how good the reliever or starter is going. I go by the slogan “If it aint broke, don’t fix it”

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

KC - Same as you, I want Marcus’ trade value as high as possible. Hey, I’m simply a Braves fan and I want the whole team to excel, individually or not. I just see a little irony in the guy feeling “more relaxed” when the variables have changed minimally. That being said, God bless him in his new found comfort; I hope he tears the cover off the ball for the rest of the year.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

What would the Devil Rays do if we trade Scott Thorman, Saltamachia, Martin Prado for Carl Crawford, and Scott Kazmir.

By Spider29

August 2, 2006 02:41 PM | Link to this

Thanks, BBFan, great post!

By robin

August 2, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

KC,

Excellent analysis of the Estrada situation on all fronts. Injury definitely diminished his trade value, and had it not occurred, we might never “discovered” McCann. Cormier and Viilareal were reasonable compensation considering our needs at the time.

Thatsaid, I don’t think anyone (including Sheurholz) knew McCcann was THIS GOOD, in terms of hitting. I don’t think he can maintain .330-340 batting average, but I believe you can see in his stroke that he is a .300 hitter.

I also think the Farnsworth deal was another stroke—-we don’t win last year w/o him, and though Colon/Miner are performing OK in Detroit, you do what you have to do to win when you can.

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

Thomas, I think they’d do about the same thing the Red Sox would do if they found out we traded Thompson and Reitsma for Schilling, Manny and Pappi; they’d call the police and FBI.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

You’d probobally right.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

Tomas-They’d tell us to get lost and would be right.

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

Good afternoon, Carolina Lady! I wouldn’t send in the cavalry quite yet; the worms DID mention a ransom of some sort. We should at least hear them out before pulling a Reagan. If it’s reasonable, we may be able to avoid bloodshed.

By KC

August 2, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Thomas:

TB would never make that deal.

By TennesseePaul

August 2, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

KC: Part of the benefit of the Estrada trade is that we did get two young pitchers with minor league options who aren’t arbitration eligible. I don’t know what will become of them; time will tell. But at least in this trade, we got time.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

Hey, Grinch! They (worms) had better hurry then! Hartebeest has a top speed of 65 mph! ‘Course he can’t sustain that for long periods, so there will be frequent rest stops.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

Don’t give up on Villarreal quite yet. He is just a year back from all of that surgery. I don’t think we’ve seen his best yet. He’s really just a kid.

By DCBravesFan

August 2, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

Without a healthy Chipper Jones all this wildcard talk is ridiculous.
Lineup: Renteria Giles CJones AJones McCann Roachy Francouer Langerhans/Diaz/Thorman Pitcher

I’d bet good money that this lineup gets us to the postseason with only medicore pitching.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

KC: next year Crawford is going to make about 4 million, he makes 2.2million right now, and kazmir will make about 2 million, the player who is best paid in there team is Carl Crawford, and they always trade this kind of players for a large deal of prospects. Salty, great prospect, Thorman leading the minors in hitting and is not doing bad in the majors, and prado, another good propect, who runs and hits.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

Grinch, one of my many favorite Reagon quotes: “I’ve laid down the law, though, to everyone from now on about anything that happens: no matter what time it is, wake me, even if it’s in the middle of a Cabinet meeting.”

• Ronald Reagan

He had some great lines! :-))

By KC

August 2, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

TennPail & Lew

Good points. I’m prepared to give Villareal more time. I just don’t know how that going to work next year.

Closer: (Wickman?)

Baez?

Yates

Paronto

Boyer

McBride

Foster

Stockman?

There’s 7 or 8 guys right there without Villareal. If neither Stockman or Baez (unless he’s the closer) figure into next year’s plans, than there might be a spot for Villareal. Otherwise, we might have to take advantage of that AAA option.

By KC

August 2, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this

TennPaul… sorry, typo on your name was unintentional.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Tomas-There payroll is so low, I don’t think they are looking to cut it anymore. Besides, as far as Salty goes, didn’t they just trade the Dodgers for Navarro, a very highly regarded catcher? I can guarantee that they won’t throw Kazmir in the mix, either.

By MT

August 2, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

It amazes me how people are talking about how Schuerholz is so stupid to trade Betemit instead of Giles, and how he should’ve gotten rid of Hudson. DOB posted last week that there wasn’t any interest in Giles, for the same reason that Braves fans want him traded. HE’S NOT PLAYING WELL. We could’ve gotten more for Betemit than Giles, and Schuerholz knew that. Who would want Hudson, right now, BirdDawg? You freaking moron, the guy is pitching horribly, and owed a TON of money over the next 3 years. Why would anyone take on that contract? Everyone is entitled to their own opinion; I just request that you actually know a little about what you’re talking about. MORON.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

cott Thorman: Individual Stats (Batting) Team From To G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB BB SO SB CS OBP SLG AVG Richmond Braves 04/06 06/16 66 256 35 83 14 2 15 44 146 30 44 3 2 .394 .570 .324

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this

KC - Isn’t that a good problem to have? And don’t count Startup out, as well. Perhaps this year’s Achilles Heel can be next year’s strength. I’ll be surprised if there aren’t a few significant moves this offseason as well.

As to looking expectantly toward a playoff berth, I just want to win nightly. Anything else will be gravy…

By bigboi

August 2, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

I haven’t had a chance to read all of the blog, so I don’t know if anybody mentioned it or not, but Sosa pitched great for St. Loius last night. Pitched 1.1 innings and gave up now runs, struck out two, and allowed no baserunners.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 03:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t know, KC. You’re putting (pardon the pun) maybe too much stock in Stockman. The guy has only pitched in 4 ML games and LH batters are hitting .500 off him. Villarreal, on the other hand, has been pretty good in long relief and we all just admitted he still has an upside. In addition, Stockman’s injury was a hamstring right above the knee. This is a very strange place for a hamstring injury (they’re usually on the back of the thigh) and I don’t know how this will affect recovery. It’s in a delicate place for a pitcher.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Navarro, is a good player probobally will end up as a back up catcher, Salty has more potentiol, 300 hitter in the minors.

By KC

August 2, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

VOR:

Regardless of what happens this year, I’m looking very much forward to next season. I still think it looks like we could financially (and definitely should) make a run at either Schmidt or Zito (preferably Schmidt)!

But even if we don’t, the return of Mike Hampton should provide a big boost to the rotation.

The offense will be in good shape again next year. We don’t have any key free agents this winter (except for Wickman and Baez).

That’s why it has always been so ridiculous for there national writers to ever have suggested that the Braves might trade Smoltz. Even if we go nowhere this year… next year is looking very good.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

tomas-It doesn’t matter. Look at what just happened with Andruw. We were offered an unproven pitcher with a lifetime 4.94 ERA and Coco Crisp, who misses an average of 25 games a year and hits .251 against RHP. They balked at more. If this is what a player of Andruw’s caliber brings, why do you think they will part with Crawford for a bunch of minor leaguers? In addition, you think they will throw in Scott Kazmir, who is what everyone is looking for- a young lights out number one starter not making any money for several more years. Dude, this deal will never even be considered.

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

Sorry, CL; I was just listening to a heck of a guitar dual between Frank Zappa and Steve Vai…whew! Ya, Ronnie was a trip, to be sure! Hope you sent some traveller’s checks along with Baby Seal, in case Hartebeest has to stop at the local hostler to get his hooves pared (highway travel, you know). I agree, Lew; Villareal still deserves a chance. Though that surgury hasn’t done wonders for Schiell…

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

Dioner Navarro: Individual Stats (Batting)AVG .175, 40 AB and 2RBI

By ncscoots

August 2, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

KC, you do realize Schmidt is 34 next year, right? Really want to sign that guy to a four-year deal?

By Voice Of Reason

August 2, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

KC - Agreed. The future is bright. It has been documented by DOB that the Braves young major league talent is the envy of many teams around the league. Either Wick or Baez, maybe both, will be resigned for next year, IMO. Look for Reitsma, Giles, Pratt, and probably Langerhans to be elsewhere. And I know I’m touching a nerve hre, but Chipper’s got to look at 1B or changing leagues in the very near future…

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

For example look at what happen with Beitemet, i think we robbed them, Baez is a great pitcher, and Aibar is a very high rated prospect.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 03:34 PM | Link to this

Grinch, they are well-provisioned! (Are you in a hurry for that bat house?? I haven’t forgotten - just suddenly had a bunch of extra stuff come up here at home that has required my attention!)

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

Well if the red sox would have agreed to the deal we proposed, I’ll accept like a blink of an eye, Jon Lester, Coco Crisp, and Craig Hamsen.

By Choppin Bob

August 2, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

kc: you feeling ok? no stats lately.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/teams/salaries?team=atl please see this website.

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

KC, gotta throw Devine in the bullpen mix too. We should actually have some healthy competition for spots out of the pen for a change, if we sign either Wickman or Diaz.

If it’s one or the other of those guys, I’m inclined to hope we pursue Baez; he’s younger and pretty versatile; has closed and pitched setup.

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

My dear, I have structured my life to where I’m not in a hurry for a darned thing, for the most part. Besides, it takes an awful long time for bats to roost, anyway; it wouldn’t do me much good to be in a hurry. However, I’m still interested; whenever you get some free time we’ll discuss if you wish…for the moment I need to make a trip to town. Check back with Y’all in a bit.

By ncscoots

August 2, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

frankly, that list above isn’t a bullpen to get me excited. I’d take Yates, Baez, and Stockman, and look elsewhere. Give me plus heaters and any second pitch better than a Pony League curveball, and that’s my bullpen. You can’t “pitch to contact” after the sixth inning, boys and girls.

By KC

August 2, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

ncscoots:

I don’t remember saying anything about four years… but… yeah, sure.

Schmidt is a dominant #1 power pitcher in the Smoltz, Schilling mold (both of whom are 40 and still mowing down hitters left and right).

I think he could be the key to winning another World Series. When you throw two dominant power pitchers at the opposition (like the 2001 D-Backs), and follow that up with Hampton, and Ramirez… Yeah, that’s the ticket.

In order to sign another big starter, we would have to trade Hudson. That’s not going to be easy if he doesn’t get it straightened out before the end of the season. But even if he doesn’t, I think there will still be a few teams in the market for Hudson if we agree to pay a portion of his 2008, 2009 salaries.

Next year is the year to bring someone like into the fold. It make take a while for us to put together another team as good as next year’s squad has a chance to be.

After next year, Andruw will be a free agent. HoRam and LaRoche will both be due significant pay raises (arbitration). Hudson’s salary will jump from 6 mill to 13 mill (whether he’s on our team or we’re paying part of his salary for another team, it will affect us either way). I’m not sure about this, but I think Francoeur and McCann might be eligible for arbitration after next year.

With our current payroll allotment, next year might be our best opportunity for a while to assemble an awful lot of talent in one place. Personally, I think we already will be, but 1 more big-game power starter to go with Smoltzy gives us the best possible opportunity to win a World Series. On top of the payroll considerations, don’t forget that Smoltzy is getting old.

Next year is the year. We should go for it in a big way. Adding a guy like J.Schmidt would give us the best chance possible chance next season.

By KC

August 2, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

Tomas:*

What’s your point (with the salaries)?

By Lew

August 2, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

Tomas-My point is this. If you’re the GM, you want to get the most for the least. This is understood. However, you have to try to get what a player is worth, especially if you have what everyone else is looking for. Now Andruw is aMVP caliber player who can be counted on to provide 35-50 HR and 120 RBI a year. He has proven this the past two years, if not before. He is a 5 time All Star and this year he will win his 9th Gold Glove. An outfielder of Crisp’s talent and a pitcher of Hansen’s credentials is not worth it for a superstar player. The Red Sox wouldn’t go along for Lester, who at 5-1 defintiely has an upside, but wasn’t Kyle Davies 5-1 at one point in his rookie year? Still not worth it. Right now, half of major league baseball wants Carl Crawford, who is a potential stud. Everyone wants Scott Kazmir who is a number one type pitcher with ML experience and earns no money. Question-If Crisp is worth Andruw, what is Crawfor and Kazmir worth? I repeat. No GM in his right mind will make the deal you proposed.

By KC

August 2, 2006 03:52 PM | Link to this

MBATL: Devine is all the way back down at the “A” level right now. He may make it back to the majors next year, or he may not.

By RobertH

August 2, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

BirdDawg, you need to go back and learn your history. There was abolutely nothing wrong with trading Thomas, Meyer, and Cruz for Hudson. After a year and a half, neither of the three has done anything. Thomas was a bust in Oakland last year and is mediocre at AAA this year. Meyer has been bad at AAA.

The real stupidity was giving Hudson a five year extension that will pay him 13 million per year in 2008 and 2009. After he comes off an injury plagued season in which he puts up some of his worst numbers ever, Schuerholz gives him a golden five year deal. And Billy Beane had nothing to do with that.

Don’t blather on about Billy Beane. Beane had nothing to do with that idiotic contract extension. Beane’s overrated. In one of baseball’s weakest divisions, his results have hardly been stellar.

By ncscoots

August 2, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

so, instead of paying Hudson $32M over three years (or whatever the number is), you’d rather pay Schmidt $40M (or more) over four years, to have a better chance at the WS for 1 year, based on the expectation that Schmidt will be Curt Schilling instead of Randy Johnson at the back end of the deal? Need to check some of that math, bro.

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

Choppin Bob:

Most of my stat gathering efforts have been concentrated on fighting off the HoRam haters lately… but the bullpen’s good, don’t worry?

By GM R

August 2, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this

It shows how bad the starting rotation has become when Kyle Davies is our ray of hope. Let’s stop kidding ourselves - I saw him get shelled for 5 runs before getting a single out. Sure he improved after that (kind of hard not to) but is he the new Glavine or Maddux? - not yet, that’s for sure. This rotation was sunk when JS failed to get a genuine replacement for Hampton coming into the season (yes, I know Hampton wasn’t the answer either but my point is that you do need at least 3 solid starters). When they were reduced to bringing Cormier back as a starter it told you how bad the situation was. The mystery is why trade Betemit when there is no way you are going to make the playoffs with this rotation?

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

I know he his, KC. Mainly because of injury, and he’s pitching regularly last I checked (if not especially well; he’s striking out guys, which is a good sign, but giving up runs, which is not).

But he’s a 1st round pick and a closer by training; I am pretty sure he’s still in our plans. Obviously, I don’t know how he’ll progress, but I’m sure he’ll get a better-than-fair shot.

I’d be very surprised if we get into a bidding war for Schmidt or Zito.

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

nscoots:

No. I’m not thinking of Schmidt just for next season.

I think next season might be our best chance for a while. I don’t have anyway of knowing that obviously (can’t tell the future), but I think next year looks like our best chance. However, I think Schmidt gives us the best possible chance for years to come, as long as he’s healthy.

The way Smoltz looks right now, it’s hard to imagine any substantial drop off next year, but what about the year after that? He’s 40 years old. How long can Smoltzy keep doing it at this level?

Schmidt would give us a dominant power starter right now to go with Smoltz. But 2-3 years down the road… he could be just the right veteran power pitcher to replace Smoltz as the ace of this staff for a while.

Similar in my mind (if you’re a basketball fan) to the David Robinson/Tim Duncan combo in the 90’s. They won 1 championship together, and then Duncan took an aging Robinson’s place as the leader of that team. That’s how I see Smoltz and Schmidt in that rotation.

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

MBATL:

I would also be very surprised if we get Schmidt or Zito… but one can hope.

By Blue Worms

August 2, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

we have jernalis jimy smith. have pie, cheese, root beer, ice cream, and cold watermelon ready. after 2-4 days we will inform you were to deliver this. we warn you for making anyding public or for notify the seal. the jernalis is in gud care - jus a bump on the head. indication for all letters are singnature and three holes.

By ncscoots

August 2, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

KC, what’s your contract offer to Schmidt as GM? I’ll play agent. And, oh, BTW, Schuerholz has never…not…ever…eaten salary to trade a player, at least in my selective memory, so I’d kiss that type of Hudson trade scenario adios.

By MGL

August 2, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

GM R - Maddux’s first 2 years - ERA over 5.5, 1.3 hits/inn, Glavine’s first 2 - ERA over 5, more than a hit/inn, 104K’s & 96BB. Give these young guys a break. Also, Betemit is gone and it was an excellent trade for both sides but I think Aybar will be a substantially better infielder and we got Beaz to boot. No reason to revisit that one now.

By ncscoots

August 2, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

stop the presses, I’m now really confused, KC. If you would be very surprised if the Braves make a play for Schmidt or Zito, then why in the world are you touting all this bushwa in the first place???

By Blue Worms

August 2, 2006 04:25 PM | Link to this

forgot to mention that jernalis is being forsed to lissen to joe morgan broadcasts at hi volumn over an over.

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

GM R:

“JS failed to get a genuine replacement for Hampton coming into the season”

How did he fail? Was there a blue-light special somewhere on quality starting pitchers last winter that JS overslept and missed? Do you know how many teams were looking for starting pitching?

Besides, no one could have predicted what’s happened with Hudson, Sosa was fantastic last year, and Davies was (and still is) a highly thought of prospect who’s ready for a chance.

Bottom line… A rotation of Smoltz, Hudson, Ramirez, Sosa, and Davies, didn’t sound bad at all that bad back in March. If anything, we thought we had a surplus of starting pitching. John Thompson had pitched very well for us the past couple of years, and there wasn’t even room for him before HoRam got hurt.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

KC-Sosa was actually not good last year. He gave up tons of runners and was a bunt single away from total annihilation on numerous occaisions. He was a train wreck waiting to happen. Houdini, indeed.

By MGL

August 2, 2006 04:34 PM | Link to this

KC - you are right on the money!!

By Choppin Bob

August 2, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

kc: no probs w/ relief, just starting pitching and offense.

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

ncscoots:

There has never been a scenario during these 14 years where Atlanta has given a lucrative multi-year deal to a marquee player who completely tanked. That’s why you’ve never seen it the Braves eat salary in a deal. When we’ve wanted to shed salary, there is usually no shortage of teams who feel the player we dealing is worth what they’ll have to pay him. JS is a very careful, measured GM and he doesn’t offer ridiculous contracts to anyone… he didn’t do that even when he had Ted Turner’s checkbook. Tim Hudson was a proven winner, or he wouldn’t have received this kind of contract offer from Atlanta. However, if he doesn’t turn it around, there is a possibility he could be traded in the not too distant future if some one else is willing to take a chance. And any such deal would have to include our paying part of his 2008/2009 salaries.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not predicting that you’re going to see it. This organization is more patient than most, and more times than not that proves to be a virtue for ATL. Hudson will be given every chance to turn it around. JS isn’t going to panic and call every GM in baseball this year looking for someone to take Hudson off our hands.

As of now, I’ll bet any amount of money that there are no thoughts of trading Hudson. I’m sure everyone’s deeply concerned, but I’m also certain they feel it’s too early to give up on a guy like Hudson… and they’re probably right, even though most of the fans are ready to run him out on a rail.

In short, yeah it would be a truly rare occurrence for JS and the Braves, but I wouldn’t completely rule it out. Anyway, I’m just flapping my gums and thinking up different scenarios because I want Jason Schmidt on this team next year!

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

Hmmmm, CL; I was suspicious of the worms’ demands at first, seeing as how they only seemed to want things Jimmy Smith likes…however, those things may be the only thing keeping the Journalist alive if he’s having to listen to Joe Morgan. Their motive appears to be simple cruelty. 2-4 days of that may leave him a gibbering facimile of his former self. He will never win the Wurlitzer that way. I think we must at least appear to give into their demands until we come up with a more considered plan of attack. If we strike too soon, they may make him listen to Morgan and Sutton simultanously! Oh, the humanity, indeed.
For the rest of the blog, NOBODY is going to take on Hudson’s contract the way it is unless he picks his performance up big-time over the rest of the season, and if he does that, he’ll be worth what we’re paying him. It’s a pitch-22.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

KC-I don’t think the Braves will eat any of his salary, but they might trade him for next to nothing to someone willing to take a chance on a change of scenery.

By MGL

August 2, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

Under the NL league leaders for pitching (minimum of 1 inn per game played so these are regular starters) there are only 8 with ERA’s less than 3.5, and only 23 with ERA less than 4.5. Looks like there is a serious shortage of durable, quality starting pitchers. AL isn’t much better.

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

LEW:

Sosa wasn’t dominant last year. He gave everyone on the team an ulcer. But ultimately, he got the job done nearly every time they sent him out there last year (including his one post-season start). He was good last year. There’s no way to spin 13-3 with a 2.55 ERA, and call it mediocre.

Now this year, well… we don’t need to talk about that anymore. He’s gone. Let’s forget all about it!

By KC

August 2, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

Lew

Agreed. If they can find a taker for Hudson with his contract as is (assuming he doesn’t turn it around before the end of the season), that is more their style. But there may not be any takers. I think it depends on just how bad (or good) he looks over the final 2 months of the season.

By Jeff

August 2, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

We’ll see how Hudson finishes (the season, that is). Could be trade bait come the winter.

By Ralph Peepers

August 2, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

Adam Laroche is now taking medication for AADD and is better focused on the game. This story appears in another local paper. Adam confessed to Bobby that he was thinkin’ ‘bout huntin’ during the games and couldn’t keep focused. Hence, the trip to a doctor. The story reports Marcus was reminding Adam how many outs to keep him in the game. The medicine seems to have helped. Two HR’s last night.

By DonCoburleone

August 2, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

The Braves aren’t serious about pitching Shiell again are they? The guy is terrible… I said this the last time he pitched too, but where is Lance Cormier? He had a better outing as a starter than Shiell did in two trys. HE WAS PITCHING IN AN INDEPENDENT LEAGUE JUST A COUPLE MONTHS AGO!!!

By Chop Chop

August 2, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

KC, Sosa was a mediocre pitcher who, thankfully for the Braves, got lucky last year. This year, he returned to his past form.

13-3, 2.55 ERA…That’s a really strong year. He was lucky, though. Damn lucky. His BAA with runners in scoring position was insanely low. Unsustainable for a guy with his lack of command. That’s why he regressed back to normal this year. That…and his 20-pound weight gain and lack of interest in learning anything about how to pitch.

KC, you were the one saying that I can’t argue with Horacio’s “amazin’ eight” starts out of twelve this year. Yesterday, I made the argument that if Horacio can have good starts two out of three times, he can be a solid major league pitcher. 8 out of 12. Yeah, that’s two out of three. It would just be nice if he didn’t get smoked so badly in the bad starts. That’s what differentiates solid pitchers from top pitchers. Horacio is rarely able to stick around in a game when he doesn’t have his best stuff. He either has it or he doesn’t. There’s no in-between with this guy. I predict that we’ll see the “good” Horacio tonight.

By Knockahoma

August 2, 2006 05:14 PM | Link to this

It’s time for me and the Braves faithful to admit that this team is simply not a playoff contender. Starting pitching is suspect, offense is inconsistent at best, and the bullpen has been a soap opera from the start. Sorry to say but this is not the year for the Braves to win anything. Time to retool and hope to come back to contention in the next 3 years. If mgmnt does their job in filling the holes with youth, we could see another 1991 type team by 2008/2009. If they hang onto dead weight- Chipper, Hudson, Hampton, Thompson, etc.- we may be looking at a decade before seeing a return to the postseason.

By The Grinch

August 2, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this

Man, when I’m hunting I usually think about baseball. Maybe I should try out for first! DonC, the reason Schiell is continuing to pitch is because BOBBY HAS DECIDED HE’S THE FIFTH STARTER. It doesn’t make any difference if the entire rest of the human population (including Schiell) can clearly see he sucks; he’ll be pitching every fifth day untill Thomson or Davies return, and them only, because they were PREVIOUSLY annointed 5th starters and lost out due to injury, not ineffectiveness. Same reason Giles will be batting leadoff the moment Chipper returns. I’ll put a 20 on it right now.

By Sammy Kershaw

August 2, 2006 05:35 PM | Link to this

DOB Why is Bobby not letting Lance Cormier pitch? Does he see more promise in Sheil, becasue i really dont.

By NORM

August 2, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

With apollogys to Furnam Bisher the Braves rotation have been scrambled like truck-stop eggs.

I don’t kno these Blue Worms but I kno they are not to be messt with. Blue Worms can be cruel and they will drink all your beere. It is best if you pay them ther ransum and save the jernalis. This is gud avise. Go Braves!

By DonCoburleone

August 2, 2006 05:41 PM | Link to this

Whatever LaRoche is doing he needs to keep it up, he’s been our most consistent offensive weapon since the end of the 7 game winning streak… At least on the road. If we played every game away from Turner field LaRoche would lead the league in HR’s… Anyway, I am the first to bash LaRoche when he’s playing bad, so I guess it’s time I gave him some credit.

By snowy

August 2, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

ok will real braves fans comment every team has its ups and downs sometime in life. this happen be braves year. i feel they not been that good for few yrs in pitching. luck of hitters helped with good win numbers not their pitching. yes we do need redue starters sorry but including smoltzy back to bull pen and put pride aside u be whole lot better there next season. rebuild is the key for next few yrs. heck with power hitting they ok but need find runs with singles doubles triples steals etc. then world series will come heck with div title for awhile folks let them rebuild but enjoy what you can while they do it dont forsake them. true fans dont

By DonCoburleone

August 2, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

But I still say trade him while his value’s at it’s highest…

By Head Coach

August 2, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

did anybody besides myself just watch ESPN ? I heard it straight from the horses mouth. John Smoltz said : The playoffs cannot be considered by the Braves UNTIL they first get to .500 and I must add they haven’t been at .500 since JUNE 4th.

By MGL

August 2, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

Cormier’s last three games in Richmond 0-3 ERA over 8.

By Lew

August 2, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

Head Coach-He’s absolutely right. No matter how you spin it, we have to get to .500 first before we even consider anything more. No sub .500 team should or will be in the playoffs.

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Head Coach, Frenchy said at the break that his goal for the team was to reach 60-60 (this was off the cuff, so doesn’t mean too much I guess), and THEN to start thinking about a playoff run. But that’s pretty reasonable; to reach 60-60 we’d need to go 11-4, which would probably put us right back in the race. If we go 9-6 over the same period, we’re not gonna pick up much ground.

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 06:16 PM | Link to this

My Lady, all men are flawed, great and small … excepting maybe me and Ronald Reagan; and I’m lying about me.

Funny, I don’t remember many of his quotable quips but he’s on my list of great presidents which includes Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Franklin, Harry S. Truman, Robert A. Taft, Adlai E. Stevenson II, and of course, Ronald W. Reagan. If you can figure out my politics from that, your blogging identity should be changed to Gunga Din.

Reagan’s smile was more infectious than that of either the man he replaced or Andruw Jones … and though skilled in taking direction, he was a truly remarkable executive. Maybe his greatest legacy is that he made a lot of folks feel good about themselves and about their country.

I’m not sure what having “star quality” is but folks sure liked watching him … whether he was being the Gipper, Bonzo’s straight man, or just a soldier with yellow hair … and, showman that he was, saved some of his best for last.

Upon reflection, I guess I agree that Ronald Reagan was indeed flawed … I know that he was supposed to have had a good vocabulary but he didn’t even know the meaning of the word apathy … Goodness!

By Brent

August 2, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

If Shiell stays in the rotation, not only will he pitch on Saturday, but it also appears that he will face off against Ben Sheets next Friday.

The white flag is waving.

Make me eat my words, Jason.

By KC

August 2, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop:

Please, nobody turn me into a Jorge Sosa defender. I know he was pretty damn lucky to pitch out of all those jams last year. I always knew he wasn’t going to be the kind of pitcher who would post a sub-3.00 ERA. All I said was that the guy did a “good” job last year. That’s all I said. Now please, leave me in peace about it. I’m not interested in wasting anymore of my time discussing Jorge %^$#%^$ Sosa.

And Chop Chop… do we need to get back on the HoRam thing again?

There have been three lousy (really lousy) starts this year for Horacio. Aside from those, he’s been brilliant. Period.

And he’s made 11 starts since May, not 12. He made one start back in April in which he was already hurt when he took the mound. He tried to pitch through but couldn’t, and came out after only a few innings, and went straight on the DL for 6 weeks. I’m not holding that start against him.

I am holding the 3 starts in which he’s sucked since May against him, but again 8 fantastic starts VS. 3 lousy starts… this guy is an asset to his team.

I would love to see some more consistency out of him. If he can become more consistent… the sky’s the limit.

By Head Coach

August 2, 2006 06:27 PM | Link to this

well , spin the numbers anyway you want , they are in a world of hurt. The starting pitching is a big question mark , the bullpen is not , they finally have their act together. 84 to 88 wins will probably take the wildcard and I say that looking at the standings from August 2nd 2005 as I type this. There is little difference from today , August 2nd 2006. The Braves have too and thats an ABSOLUTE HAVE TO win 35 of their last 57 games just to be in contention at the end of the season. The whole starting pitching staff would have to do a 180 degree turn in the right direction. Consider this , as we speak the Florida Marlins are actually ahead of us in the wildcard race and their pitching is much better , although their offense stinks. If you think the Braves are playoff material then so are the Marlins. Sobering thought aint it ?

By shawn

August 2, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

What is the chance they place Hudson on waivers with the HOPE that he gets claimed?

By Chop Chop

August 2, 2006 06:33 PM | Link to this

KC, I’m just goofing on ya. I really don’t care about this stuff (Sosa’s 2005 or Horacio’s 11 starts) but it’s fun to argue with someone who seems so passionate, especially about Horacio Ramirez. You probably don’t really care that much about the guy, but it comes across that way.

By shawn

August 2, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this

There will be no playoffs this year for the Braves. There are too many teams ahead of them. Even if half lose on any given night the Braves gain nothing because the other 4-5 won. The only way the Braves get in the race is with a 10-15 game win streak. If you have watched this team this year you know that just ain’t going to happen.

By brian

August 2, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

good point on Boston needing a catcher REASON, but you are not thinking big enough. We should dangle Bryan Pena to Boston for one of their top pitching prospects, or if JS is sure he can’t sign Andruw long term, see if adding Bryan Pena to Andruw Jones might get is Crisp and Lester and another top pitching prospect (ideally Hansen)

By KC

August 2, 2006 06:41 PM | Link to this

Shawn:

If Tim Hudson snaps back into form very soon… Atlanta will win the Wild Card. If not, we probably will not.

So… that probably means no playoffs this year, because there’s no real cause for encouragement on the Tim Hudson front right now.

But hey… they still got a shot anyway. At least they’ll be close enough that we can all have the fun of watching them, pulling for them, and doin’ a little scoreboard watching.

If they don’t make it. Oh well. Lots to look forward to next season.

By shawn

August 2, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this

Even if Hudson pitches better there is just not enough consistency from 3-4-5 starters to sustain a streak of any knid. I for one am just hoping JS is gearing towards next year. I would love to see these middle infielders we hear so much about come up and play a few games so we know what to expect if indeed they are on the club next year (are they really that good).Maybe even showcase some guys you can use in off season trades.Too many question marks when spring training broke this year and don’t want to see a repeat of it next year.

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this

Brian, makes sense, but I bet Boston is gonna want a veteran for the playoff run.

Shawn, obviously the playoffs are a long shot. Don’t think anyone in here is saying it’s likely. No harm in keeping the faith, I guess.

IF we can take 2 of 3 from the Pirates, and then sweep, or at least take 2 of 3 from the Reds, we really have a decent shot at it. We’re only 1 1/2 behind 7 of the teams ahead of us. Even with a slow climb, it’s reasonable to hope to be within 2 or 3 games Sept. 1, and it’s reasonable to hope to make up that in a month.

It will require a better couple of months than we’ve posted all season, so I’m not bettin’ on it, and of course, if we can’t get a starter besides Smoltz through 5 innings, it ain’t gonna happen.

By KC

August 2, 2006 06:48 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop:

I’m just very encouraged by what I’ve seen over those 8 starts I’m referring to. It’s a complete turn around from last year.

Sure, he’s had a few horrific starts to go along with the 8 brilliant ones… but it’s a vast improvement over last season. Last year he was consistently mediocre, and gave up more round-trips than a Wendy’s-Airtran promotion.

This year (with 3 notable exceptions), I’ve been impressed . I’m just very encouraged that this guy has shown he has what it takes to be an ace. Doesn’t mean he will be, but I think he’s got it in him.

By Carroll

August 2, 2006 06:48 PM | Link to this

Is Reeksma out for the year? If not, I wonder if he could try his hand at starting. Wasn’t he a starter with Cincy? Maybe he’d do better in that role than the bullpen.

By paluka

August 2, 2006 06:49 PM | Link to this

We can only hope that Hudson gets claimed and a trade can get worked out. I don’t understand why Boston isn’t calling about him, there starting pitching is awful after Schilling and Lester, and on Monday Schilling was said to be hurting. Maybe JS can get Coco or Hansen From Boston but I doubt it.

By shawn

August 2, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

Boston isn’t calling because they have seen him pitch….that is awful to say but it is true

By shawn

August 2, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

I just hope someone claims him to take him off the books so we can find someone else….we won’t get much in return if anything

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this

What’s Oswalt’s status? Is he a FA, or arbitration-eligible after this year? Anyone know? Now there’s a pitcher worth putting together a package for; Houston was apparently dangling him for Tejada. Obviously, it would take more than the rights to Lance Courmier to get him…

By brad

August 2, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this

Good hiting never beats good pitching. Never mind below average pitching. Sell the team someone anyone so there is some accountability to somebody!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By shawn

August 2, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this

How about Chipper, Giles, and Hudson and prospects for Oswalt, Ensberg and Lidge……maybe Chipper would like going back home

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:02 PM | Link to this

By the way can Giles learn the outfield?

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 07:02 PM | Link to this

I presonally think that the notes from the “Blue Worms” are fraudulent. The Big Blues are crafty and highly intelligent … nothing like those notes suggest … they look more like the handiwork of some Met fans.

Certainly, before giving in to those terrorists, we should demand proof that they are actually holding Jimmy captive … they could either tell us Jimmy’s maiden name, back before he was married … or give us a fungus sample from under one of his toes so that we could perform DNA testing.

Of course, it could be just a ruse, designed by Jimmy to get some food and supplies while he’s in hiding, trying to avoid prosecution for refusing to honor an honest debt.

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 07:03 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout AJ for Oswalt? But I don’t know his contract status.

By Todd A

August 2, 2006 07:06 PM | Link to this

Jeez.We’re still talking about the wildcard on here.This team can’t play on the road all season.At some point,they have to return to theTurner Field of horrors.Not to mention,we have more home games remaining than road games.

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:06 PM | Link to this

MBATL if they can do it and I would ask for Lidge as well….why not

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this

No Todd at least from my end I am talking about next year

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:11 PM | Link to this

Use some of that money on Zito next year. Oswalt, Zito, Smoltz, Hampton is a real good start. Then Baez, Boyer, Foster, McBride, Wickman, and Lidge in the pen. Take James as 5th starter and move all those middle relievers and Ramierz for some return players. Pitching and defense….

By tom

August 2, 2006 07:15 PM | Link to this

start with the relievers and work back to the starters…i.e. 1st Inning - Wickman 2nd - Baez 3rd - Yates or Poranto etc. If we have a 10 run lead or deficit feel free to bring in Hudson any time (careful if we’ve got the lead though)

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this

OK, everybody, we’ve gotta get this ransom list together to rescue jimmy smith.

Pie: LeTwan, that’s yours Cheese: DOB’s Root Beer: I’ll get it Ice cream: need a volunteer! Cold watermelon: Bob journalist, will you get that one?

By Todd A

August 2, 2006 07:26 PM | Link to this

JS should have swallowed his pride after the Mets series and started dumping salary.Anyone that witnessed a few innings of that debacle this weekend will readily admit this team isn’t close to returning to a World Series any time soon.His pride wouldn’t allow him to do it.On one hand,he doesn’t want to admit the streak is over.On the other,it would have been an admission that he dropped the ball big time in his construction of this team.We all know Shuerholz doesn’t make mistakes.He sure won’t admit it if/when he does.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 07:29 PM | Link to this

Tomas, you brought up a trade with the Rays for Kazmir and Crawford. Well, the Rays won’t give up Kazmir but Crawford is a different story.

I figured up the Braves payroll in the offseason. They should have about $14 million or so to spend once you get rid of the dead weight. $7 mil or so of that should be used on a closer (Baez or someone else). That would leave about about $6 mil or so. I have taken into account Giles being traded. I say he and Langerhans get packaged to somebody for some pitching prospects.

I think we could possibly work out a trade with the Rays if we offered Horacio (that is if he can pitch decently at all the rest of the year), Thorman, and Salty for Crawford. I think the Rays may bite on that. They would fill a need at 1B, OF, and C.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this

Do Blue Worms eat salary??

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this

no but Jones’s do

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

With extra money that we have we could look for a 2B who can leadoff unless Aybar looks like he could be the guy.

Now, if the Rays don’t accept the trade, I have another idea. If Sheffield is serious about moving to first, the Yanks will probably exercise his option. We could offer Giles and maybe even Horacio for Melkey Cabrerra and Robinson Cano and if they don’t bite on Cano inquire about Andy Phillips or some pitching prospects. Again, another deal I think the Yanks would definitely think about. Because even if Giles didn’t start Torre would love to have his defense and his bat coming off the bench. Giles is a gamer and every club needs one of those type of guys.

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this

Robert you better spend that money on pitching or we will have a repeat of this year…That said Crawford would be a great addition

By shawn

August 2, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this

How about Ramirez, Davies, and Satch for Dontrelle Willis

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

Well, our rotation should (SHOULD) be in decent shape with Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, Davies, and James (if Horacio were traded). Our bullpen would be for the most part set if we can get Baez or someone reliable to close. I counted that as part of that money. Now, they could use that extra 6.5 mil to attempt to get a setup guy and a 2B who can leadoff but that would be difficult. If we could get Crawford and a 2B this is the lineup I envision.

2B Free agent pickup or trade

SS Edgar Renteria

LF Carl Crawford

CF Andruw Jones

3B Chipper Jones

RF Jeff Francoeur

C Brian McCann

1B Adam LaRoche

Bench:

Prado

Aybar

Bryan Pena (backup catcher)

Jurries

Diaz

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

Robert, if all that could happen (and I’d like to see us make a move for Crawford), I’d just put Prado at 2b and in the 8 hole, and let Crawford lead off. Prado needs to play in the ML’s or be traded.

By NORM

August 2, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

Gud for you geting together the ransum demands. Jernalis mus not suffer anymore than nesessary by listining to Joe Morgan. I don’t kno anything about Blue Werms but it is smart to honor there demanz. They are crafty like Jernalis Bob says. Jimy Smith maiden name is Anokbonggo. Werms mean biznis. How did LaRoach get a cramp there? Trainer must rub, ugh!

By Miss Manners

August 2, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this

If Mr. La Roche is going to strain that (how in the world?) he should not rub it while on television. Imagine the poor trainer who must now rub it until it is relieved. Not even Chipper has had such an injury. Leave it to La Roche to leave because of a pain in the asks.

By David from Athens, ALA

August 2, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this

Pratt big hit … LaRoche hurt …looks like slight hamstring pull. Ramirez pitching great … quick game, going to top of the 6th; 1-1 …..

By Overlord

August 2, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

The 4 most important facts for this season: 1. Braves wouldnt have a shot at the WC this year if Smoltz was not around, if Smoltz gets hurt or something, at that very moment the season is over. 2. The pitching is a TOTAL dissaster for the first time in more than 15 years………doesnt that tells you Leo was something? 3. This team looks like championship caliber only if chipper is healty and hitting, he is the true leader in this club, the real difference between winning and losing (beside smoltz). 4.Boy do we miss mike hampton, thats the biggest blow braves have taken in their run.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this

what happened to laroche

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this

ohohoh bases loaded.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

Let’s hope LaRoche is not injured serious enough where he misses more than a day or has to go on the DL. But, if he does this could be a good opportunity for Thorman and Jurries to show us if they have what it truly takes. Does anyone know how Jurries is doing in the minors? I know he was hurt for awhile.

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this

Robert, looks like he’s playing but not hitting a lick. here’s a link

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

I think that Giles thinks he’s hitting leadoff and it confuses him when men are on base.

Cold watermellon? How about a big, hot Black Diamond, directly from the patch … nothing better than the salted heart of a hot Black Diamond.

Anokbonggo … then they must have Jimmy … Met fans don’t even know what Anokbonggo means in Kiswahili? I’m impressed, even with Jimmy living in Georgia, there’s still a bunch of Anokbonggos in the Ugandan three digit club!

On second thought, it could still could be a ruse … most Anokbonggos know all about Blue Worms and how to get rid of them, but Jimmy didn’t seem to have a clue.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

I am a bit mystified why Horacio batted for himself. This is the perfect opportunity to see if this new look bullpen can get it done. Bring in Ray for the 7th, Baez in the 8th, and lets see if Wickman can do it in the 9th on back to back nights.

By Vol

August 2, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with moving to the pen in the 7th with exactly who you listed, Robert. We are actually pretty darn deep now, and maybe you knock in an insurance run with a pich-hitter. Ramirez isn’t exactly Smoltz out there.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

Well, Yates must have allowed a run. I see the ESPN priority score alert say its 2-2. But, Horacio should have never started the inning. Bobby and his moves sometimes make no sense. Why wasn’t Ray in the game?

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

Tie ball game.

By Vol

August 2, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

For the record Robert and I asked for the pitching change before the inning started! At least they got out of it tied.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

Aibar doubles good star to the inning.

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

run scored.

By MEB

August 2, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

Isn’t it nice to get a break every now and then! How many times will Jason Bay drop a ball like that?

By Tomas

August 2, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this

Now its Baez turn.

By Vol

August 2, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

What do you say we go with McBride here. Just kidding.

If this bullpen thing works again again tonight, JS looks like a genius. Aybar with the go-ahead run and Baez-Wickman to close it out.

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 09:09 PM | Link to this

Aybar’s double has been changed to a 2-base error; tough luck for him, but doesn’t really matter.

By Ron Roberts

August 2, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this

I disagree… if this bullpen thing works again, I have to ask…

…why did this take so long to put together?

These guys were available in the offseason, I do believe.

Meanwhile, now that the LaRoche bashing has subsided, I reckon we have to start swatting away the HoRam Slammers, now, too.

Another quality start by him, tonight.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 09:11 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe it. Did the Braves just play “small ball”. They got him on. Got him over. And got him in. Unbelievable. So, they can score a run without having to hit 410 ft.

BTW the only thing standing between Francoeur being a decent player and a MVP player is some sort of plate disciplie. He will never walk 50 or 100 times a year. However, he has to learn how to be more selective so he doesn’t go into these funks that he goes into. I suggested Sunday on the blog that an offseason project of JS and Cox’s should be to hire David Justice or someone of that ilk to teach Francoeur and LaRoche (if he’s still a Brave) how to be more selective and learn how to sit on a particular pitch or a pitch in a particular location. I would make him work four days a week over the winter and take 1,000 swings a day if that is what it takes until he gets it. I wonder if he watches tape very studiously or not. I know McCann does and so does Chipper and Frenchy values their opinions. He needs to start following the example. This kid can be a MVP for the next 10-15 years if he would just learn to use his strenghts. IMHO

By dadgum

August 2, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

Hey fellow bloggers, Cormier and Stockman are languishing up here in Richmond. Going to Richmond is like being sentenced to Alcatraz…you better be damn good to escape. John Schuerholz is coming to Richmond this week to evaluate the talent..it will be a quick stop.

NOt only will he see little talent here (my apologies JS as I know your son Jonathan plays in Richmond and had his first homer last night)but he will see very few seats occupied. The Richmond Braves are a very very bad team playing in a very very bad ballpark in very very hot weather. Attendance is down, the mayor is your opponent, the fans don’t care, you are losing $1 mil a year-yes 1 mil a year. The braves own their minor league teams. Everyone do the math and tell me how long it will be before Atlanta pulls the rug out from under Richmond. I would have done it long ago.

To make matters worse the Richmond market no longer receives very many Braves games. Any Braves game involving the Washington Nationals is blacked out here even if it is being played in Atlanta due to Angelos protecting his Oriole market. Hey the other teams had to agree to let the Nationals operate out of DC and that was part of the price. Fox Sports South is not shown here on cable so the only games shown here are occasionally TBS and any games on ESPN or games of the week on ABC etc. Basically we get maybe 45 games total so the Braves are rapidly losing the fans here.

There has been some talk locally of having the AA Nationals franchise operate out of Richmond and that is a great idea. First it makes sense local market wise and AA has better players now than AAA. Except for rehab you don’t get many great players coming through like during the 70’s and 80’s.

Charlotte is building a nice ball park or at least it is in the planning stages downtown. Charlotte is a perfect location for the AAA team in every way. It is time for Richmond and Atlanta to divorce because the fighting is getting ugly. Atlanta can do better. Hey Charlotte’s current franchise is the White Sox. That doesn’t make sense, neither does Richmond and Atlanta. Think we could swap….me neither.

Bottom line guys is don’t expect any help from Richmond to any great extent anytime soon.

By NORM

August 2, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

The jernalis cries like a big baby. Not sure if it is the torture or that the Pirats tied the game. Now the Braves are back in frunt. Jernalis is just whimpuring. Is there more than one werm bloging here tonit? Some simularitys are noted. Further demands will be delivered tomorow. No store brands only high qualite root beer. This post will end so NORM can watch Wickman in acshun.

By Vol

August 2, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

Baez might just be pretty darn good, boys.

By Ron Roberts

August 2, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

Ya know, I was thinking the same thing Robert (JIB). Was very refreshing to see some small-ball going on.

I firmly believe that sometimes when we go in those offensive funks, we overlook our abilities to do this and scratch out the occasional run or 2, and only prolong the problem (and add to the losses, in the process, too).

sigh Alright, here we go…Wickman in the 9th. Can we we get our elusvie 50th win tonight?

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

Robert, don’t really disagree, but Francouer is hitting something like .330 with 8 HR in something like 90 abs when he swings at the first pitch (haven’t checked the numbers in a couple of days, but it’s something like that).

Yes, he needs to learn some discipline, but there’s a big upside too. I think we have to be careful about “over-training” him on this.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 09:19 PM | Link to this

Ron, in JS’ defense. He did go after both Baez and Wickman. Wickman turned the Braves down to sign with Cleveland after Hoffman turned the Indians down to sign back with the Padres. As for Baez, the D-Rays were being unreasonable. The Braves offered Davies, Langerhans, and Bryan Pena for either Crawford or Gaithright and Baez. The D-Rays demanded McCann instead of Pena. The Braves countered with Estrada and the D-Rays said either McCann is part of the deal or its off. JS said no deal and thus Baez was dealt to the Dodgers. So, you can’t blame JS on that one.

By hk

August 2, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

… 6 1/2 down in the wild card two days ago, now good good chance of being only 4 1/2 back about an hour from now (Cincy down 5-2 in the 6th) …

… Horacio named ‘gatorade player of the game’ …

By Ron Roberts

August 2, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

Oh, I hear ya on these two guys in particular, I’m speaking more in general.

By Tommy Hawk

August 2, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this

I hated to get rid of Betemit but I will have to say I like Aybar. He is a scrappy player.

I will also add it sure is nice going into the 8th and 9th innings with a 1 run lead and not go into cardiac arrest watching the Braves bullpen blowing it.

By Beachcomber

August 2, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

Gosh this game is so much easier when you have a pen. Just give me six or seven boys, then we’ll turn it over to Chad, McCay, Tyler, Wickman and company. Might need a broom tomorrow afternoon!

By Vol

August 2, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

OK, it is bad enough that TBS doesn’t show weekday games unless they are on at 1:00 in the afternoon. Now Yahoo sports is locked up. What’s happening in the bottom of teh 9th?!?!

By Ron Roberts

August 2, 2006 09:26 PM | Link to this

Now we pull for the Dodgers, I reckon… better to pull us all closer to the Reds. 4.5 games back of the lead is VERY do-able guys.

By Tony Almeida

August 2, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

Rocker blew it in the ninth, Braves lose, Game Over.

By Longwood's Finest

August 2, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

Did something just happen on the field? I too live by Richmond Va, and am watching the game on gamecast…Thanks TBS

It froze up for like 3 minutes during the Paulino at bat…anything happen???

By MBATL

August 2, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

Vol, Braves Win, Braves Win, Braves Win!

3-2, solid shutdown by Baez in the 8th and Wickman in the 9th.

By Vol

August 2, 2006 09:29 PM | Link to this

Yes! Looks like the Reds are in trouble - I am hoping to enter that series on a roll and within striking distance.

By John B.

August 2, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

JIB, actually they were asking for Salty, not McCann, but you’re right about the price being too steep. I’m glad that JS got Baez AND a leadoff hitter (Aybar) for just one player. Albeit that the player was Betemit, but I’d imagine there’d be more griping on this subject if Salty had been dealt earlier instead of Wilson.

Anyways, good all-around play tonight by everyone. Beauty of a bunt by Marcus in the 8th. Play of the game I’d say (and FSN too, I guess). Even though it’s the Pirates, it’s still SOMETHING. Looks like 4 1/2 back! Keep it goin guys. Go Braves!~

By Greg

August 2, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Can we re-sign Baez and Wickman now. Right now! You gotta love Wickman. He’s a total throwback. Fat, big chaw in his mouth, and he just out thinks the batters. He doesn’t have electric stuff, but he doesn’t care. He has attitude. He reminds me of Jack Morris in the 1991 Series. He’s a ball player.

By Vol

August 2, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

The 3 minute lockup was nothing. It took Tony Almeida’s post above 7 years to hit the blog.

By Beachcomber

August 2, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Hey dadgum - Found your remarks interesting. Visited your fair city for the first time last year - the mid stop in our HOF, Richmond, Atlanta vacation. Was shocked at the poor attendance and the condition of the stadium. Here in Tampa Bay, our A ball stadiums are in better condition (of course they are in better condition than what masquerades as a major league stadium in these parts). Like you, would not be surprised to see the R Braves move on. Shame, cause you have a neat city.

By Longwood's Finest

August 2, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

Thanks Vol

By Longwood's Finest

August 2, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

The Diamond (in Richmond) is a disgrace…Sosa just gave up a homer (just incase anyone wanted to follow it)

By MEB

August 2, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

Jorge “Homer” Sosa just got tagged by Rowand of the Phillies on ESPN. Sure would enjoy seeing the Phillies get on a losing streak.

By dadgum

August 2, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

Remember guys the wild card is always dependent on things falling your way. Teams beating other teams so that you can move up. At imes it is 2 steps forward 1 step back and vice versa. Don’t get too hung up on the number of games out. Stay focused on the number of teams you have to pass. Yeah any win is good even if it is the Pirates. Remember other teams play them too.

Ask Tiger if he would rather be behind 1 player by 4 shots or 9 players by 1 shot and I guarantee he will take the 1 player. Hey just a weak correlation but we will see how it plays out when Davies returns and Hudson plugs along trying to figure it out. They need to win the Cincy series that’s for sure. Go Braves!!!!

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this

MBATL, you’re right. You don’t want to over train him. I just think it would be nice if he learned a little patience or somehow altered his stance so he can adjust quicker to pitches like Vlad Guererro does. It is uncanny how Frenchy looks like him when he first came up. They both have these cannons for arms who can cover all sorts of ground in the field and quickly gained a reputation for swinging at anything. Vlad harnessed some of that aggression and once he learned the strike zone he start hammering the ball even though he will swing at pitches 10 inches off the plate still. He seems to hit them though. I believe Frenchy will go down the same road. I remember 7,8, 9 years ago writers and analysts saying the same thing about Vlad that they are about Frenchy. I remember Vlad being called selfish, a liability, and a detriment to the team because of his aggressivness, and that he could never anchor a team. Well, obviously they were wrong and I think they are wrong about Frency.

Also, these last two nights have been very huge for the Braves’ team and particularly the starters. One reason for the starters’ struggling is that they felt they had to pitch Cy Young performances every outing because of fear the bullpen would blow it. Everyone knows that when pitchers try to be perfect they overthrow and try to nip corners. Doesn’t that sound like our starters except for Smoltz? If the pitchers believe all they have to do is pitch a solid 6 or 7 innings and they can leave it in the hands of the bullpen, then they will start to relax and better performances will follow. Horacio did great tonight for the most part and now its Hudson’s turn. Not makeing excuses but maybe part of Hudson’s problems have been that he is trying to be perfect and is simply forsaking his mechanics.

In any event, this is the sixth straight game the bullpen has come in and done a good job. Even in the Mets series the bullpen did their job. When is the last time you remember any Braves closer coming in on back to back nights and closing out a game successfully. Lets hope the offense cranks some runs out tomorrow and Hudson pitches a gem so we don’t have to use Baez or Wickman so they are fresh for the weekend.

By hk

August 2, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

… Wickman, through tonight, 4 innings, 4 saves, 4 K’s, no walks, 0.00 ERA … Baez 3 innings, 3 helps, 3 K’s, no walks, 0.00 ERA ..

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Well, I’ll swanny … Jeff didn’t swing at a some he could’ve hit and did swing at a bunch he shouldn’t. When the pitch is in his effective hitting zone, his swing it really different than when it’s not … why not teach him to pretend he’s Luke Appling until he gets such a pitch.

I know most folks think it’s I’ll swan … but I’m a purist.

Tomorrow should be interesting … how many, if any, will be trying a bit too hard?

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

I think that if we had been sitting on the curve early in the game, we’d been sitting on the lead throughout the game.

Looks like a couple of decent trades …

By hk

August 2, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

… Aybar, through 3 games, 5-13 (.385), 2 walks, no K’s (.538 obp), 3 runs, scored the winning run tonight …

By dadgum

August 2, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this

The sad part is that the fans here in Richmond could care less that they are the Atlanta Braves’ franchise. I am a huge fan of the Braves even went To Atlanta Cracker games back in the day. Hey I am not that old really OK. I don’t even care that Richmond is a Braves franchise. Richmond is DC south. A very pretty city but the Braves can do better locating their team elsewhere. The Diamond has no luster and no way anyone can put a positive spin on that just the way it is. There are at least 8 high school fields around here better than the Diamond’s. I mean who are they kidding!

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

HK, thanks for the stats! Looks encouraging, doesn’t it? :-)

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 2, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

If the Cubs handle the D-Backs (and the Cubs have been on a roll lately), the Dodgers sweep the Reds (which is possible), we take care of the Pirates tomorrow and they sweep the Reds this weekend we could be anywhere from a 1/2 to 1-1/2 games out depending on what the D-Backs do this weekend.

You heard it here. I will stand by this statement. When Chipper comes off the DL if we are 4 games or closer the Braves will DEFINITELY win the wild card. Like I said above the last six games may have been very instrumental in the starters starting to pitch better baseball. This bullpen has went from awful to one of the best in the National League in a few days. Think about it. Friday night against the Mets the bullpen came in and shut the Mutts down afer HoRam’s awful start. Saturday they only allowed 2 runs after Hudson had allowed 9. Sunday the pen only allowed 2 runs in 8 innings after Chucky had allowed 7 in 1. Last night Wickman gave up a run, which was unearned and one he shouldn’t have even been in position to give up. Tonight Yates gave up a run (charged to Horacio) but honestly Horacio should have never started the 7th inning.

Baez and Wickman’s arrival will breed confidence to the rest of the pen and will cause those guys to relax because the pressure won’t be on them. Any starting pitcher will tell you that its a lot easier to pitch when you have an offense that score runs and a bullpen that will hold leads.

By dadgum

August 2, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Hey Carolina Lady heading to Holden Beach next week for some good old fashioned beach time. Seafood, fishing, Coronas, Coronas, Coronas, did I mention Coronas. Won’t be blogging so keep on a chopping. Late…peace out.

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 10:08 PM | Link to this

Dadgum, the correlation is weak but the point is well made … I did ask Tiger and he wouldn’t answer without knowing how many holes were left to play. He privately indicated that if he were down by four with one hole to play, it wouldn’t hurt if someone ran off with his opponent’s clubs.

By hk

August 2, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

… Dodgers beat Cincy 5-3 … Braves started the night 10th in the wild card, now tied for 7th, 4 1/2 behind Cincy, 4 behind Arizona, 1 1/2 away from a tie for third in the wild card …

By hk

August 2, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady,

… yes, I’ve got a goood feeling about this whole thing :))

By dadgum

August 2, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

Robert…dude how do you figure all that out. Even if it plays out that way nothing says that the opposite won’t happen the next weekend. Too early to say. We just need to win series and let things play out. Regardless the Braves will need to play close .650 to .700 ball the rest of the way.

Also, don’t quite put it on Chipper’s return either. The turn around is on the starting pitchers overall performance during that stretch assuming Baez and Wickman continue to close games out that is. The Braves have plenty of fire power without Chipper and frankly I am not expecting a whole lot from Chipper. In fact having some experience with his type of injury having seen it in college it wouldn’t surprise me to see him stay on the DL awhile longer. The injury if he returns too soon can possibly end his season. The Braves won’t rush his return that is for sure and I certainly wouldn’t put a lot of stock in his return being the deciding factor for a wild card berth.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Hey, dadgum! I know exactly where that is! The Brunswick beaches are rapidly being overtaken by “developers” and steadily destroying the place, but there are still a few of the great old places left that we love so much! Have a GREAT time!!

By dadgum

August 2, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this

We didn’t get the game up here in Richmond but I read where Adam hurt his hamstring. Any further info on that or is it just day to day.

By Carolina Lady

August 2, 2006 10:44 PM | Link to this

G’night, all! I can hardly keep my eyes open! :-)

By hk

August 2, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

… take Cincy’s 55 wins times 162/107 projects 83.3 wins for the season … if you use 85 wins as the magic number, Braves would have to go 35-21 (.625) … if 86, 36-20 (.643) …

By MEB

August 2, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

dadgum… Rathbun or Torborg said that Larouche was now “day to day” with a strained right hamstring. Have not heard or read anything addtional.

By hk

August 2, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

dadgum,

… watched the replays of Adam, did not look good … hammy’s scare me, he has a history, they just don’t go away … Michael Vick pulled up lame yesterday in practice with one, just like last year …

… I think there’s something fundamentally wrong with the conditioning programs that have come along in the last 20 years, many many more injuries in all sports than before ..

By Bob, journalist

August 2, 2006 11:17 PM | Link to this

Dadgum, Adam didn’t look that bad while on the bases following the incident at second but he was obviously having trouble in the dugout … probably day-to-day and I’m guessing he’ll rest at least one day … that being said, it looked like a mild strain and he might be able to play tomorrow.

By Calvin

August 3, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this

How about this scenerio for next year. Bring in Kerry Wood as a closer since he is not going to be starting anymore and wants tocome back as a reliever. I just read an article that says the Cubs probably won’t have him back cuz they hold a 13.5 mill club option on him. Just a thought if Wickman and/or Baez leave after this year.

By Tomahawkin

August 3, 2006 12:35 AM | Link to this

Hell I thought about Wood gettin here this year, He’d be our most Intimidating Closer sin Mark Wohlers

I dunno, after all that medical work on his body, I bet he has lost some zip on his fastball..

By Tomahawkin

August 3, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this

Hell I thought about Wood gettin here this year, He’d be our most Intimidating Closer since Mark Wohlers

I dunno, after all that medical work on his body, I bet he has lost some zip on his fastball..

By Bob, journalist

August 3, 2006 12:49 AM | Link to this

Calvin, I thought Kerry Wood would be the Cub’s ticket to multiple World Series after watching his performance to end all performances … well, actually, I guess that one came a little later didn’t it?!

That 1998 performance against Houston was the best game I ever saw … but, I think that he’s now more of an injury waiting to happen than anything else and wouldn’t want to pay the bucks that will most likely required to find out.

By JJ

August 3, 2006 01:22 AM | Link to this

Gregor Blanco is the future of the Braves

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 02:10 AM | Link to this

Hey, Y’all! Been out tomcattin. Braves have shown they care; now how about the fans? Everyone love me. NOW! Really, though; good stuff. Yee-ha. I need attention. I’ll get along, though. It’s my own fault for kicking her out Tuesday morning. I am the epitome of evil. Maybe I should take on Jimmy Smith’s case to reedeem myself. NORM, you seem like a decent guy; what would you do? Maybe I should give in and give pie. AAaargghh! I’m so confused! Bob, You are the voice of reson; help a fellow out!

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 02:21 AM | Link to this

And, by the way, Thank you, Guy Curtwright! It was mighty nice of you to give us a new blog despite everyone giving you s@#t. I got your back, brotha.

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 02:55 AM | Link to this

Y’all wouldn’t believe what I just did; thank god no cops are lookin’…anyhoo…

By Bob, journalist

August 3, 2006 03:54 AM | Link to this

Grinch, … just passing by … want you to know that while I appreciate the compliment … I’m sure that The Voice of Reason is someone a lot richer and smarter than I … appears to be much more reasonable too.

Goodnight

By berigan

August 3, 2006 04:29 AM | Link to this

bigboi mentioned a scant 13 hours ago how Sosa pitched pretty well on Weds. Well, he gave up one run in 2 innings tonight. BUT, Weaver gave up 7 runs in 3 innings, Looper in 1/3 of an inning gave up 3 runs, Flores gave up 2 runs and didn’t get anyone out. Hancock gave up 2 earned runs in 1 and a third innings. So, not too bad. I saw him pitch a bit while I was at the gym tonight, and he looked different, like perhaps the cards pitching coach Duncan got thru to him somehow. His motion looked more like a major leaguer, and less like a high school pitcher. Anyone else notice this??

By berigan

August 3, 2006 04:33 AM | Link to this

I meant to say that Bigboi said Sosa pitched well on Tuesday. It’s now Thursday, and I should have been to sleep hours ago….zzzzzzzzz

By Larry

August 3, 2006 04:44 AM | Link to this

Braves and Yankees in WS 2006

By KC

August 3, 2006 08:40 AM | Link to this

If you look at the Wild Card standings, there are 8 teams ahead of Atlanta, BUT…

If we’re planning on winning more games than we lose the rest of the way (and of course we’ll have to), the loss column is the only thing that really matters in the standings right now.

There are actually 5 team (not 8) ahead of them in the loss column (and 2 others tied).

3 of the 5 teams ahead of us are only one game ahead of us in the loss column.

Only 2 teams are more than 1 game ahead of us in the loss column: The D-backs and the Reds. Both are 4 games up on us.

We’re still right there folks. We are very much within striking distance. The other teams in race are convincingly mediocre. All we have to do is play good baseball. Tim Hudson, are you reading this?

By Voice Of Reason

August 3, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

Nice point, KC. Very much true and accurate. The “there are too many teams to pass” crowd doesn’t get it. When it boils right down to it, the Braves simply have to win. No formula or statistic can change the fact that they simply have to put together 2 months of winning baseball; BC stresses winning series. Well, that’s what it’ll take - 2 of 3 the rest of the way.

By KC

August 3, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this

VOR:

Yeah, we’re not far out of this thing. Don’t want to sound like a broken record, but I think it all comes down to Tim Hudson.

By KC

August 3, 2006 09:38 AM | Link to this

In all seriousness, if Tim Hudson were to get his __ straight very soon… the Braves would have the best team in the NL.

If Tim Hudson is himself, the Braves have a 1-2 punch (with Smoltz) to rival any in baseball.

Despite how lousy HoRam’s 3 bad starts were this season… that’s still only 3 bad starts. The other 9 were stellar, including last night. So, if Hudson’s on his game, we have the best rotation 1-3 in the NL.

We also now have one of the best bullpens in the league. And the offense (when Chipper comes back) is as good as any in the league.

Huddy is the key. Tim Hudson is the difference between this being a merely above average team, or a great team.

By big yaz bread

August 3, 2006 09:39 AM | Link to this

According to a report in the Boston area Eagletribune.com Andruw Jones was placed on waivers Tuesday by the Braves and could be traded after the 48 hours expires in nobody claims him off waivers. He is not a 10-5 player for another week. Looks like the Braves are trying to unload him before that. MONEY is the reason. Here we go again cutting payroll.

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

Ohhhh, my head. Mornin, everyone. KC, I’m not sure Tim Hudson can read. Berigan, I believe you’re right. Perhaps there is more to this “Pitching Coach” thing than meets the eye. I believe the Braves could use one. Our pitchers (with the exception of Smoltz) aren’t much different than last year, except they’re not as good. It does tend to make a body wonder…

By KC

August 3, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

big yaz bread:

Are you just kidding, or do you actually expect someone to believe that?

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this

Huddy’s gotta turn it around. At the risk of sounding like a defeatist, I wrote the playoffs off in June. I do believe now that they can still make a run, but I really just want to see good baseball on a nightly basis. What a difference 2 weeks makes. I actually found myself telling my wife last night that if we could just get to the 8th, we were in the W column. If I feel that confidence, how does the team feel now? Surely it takes some pressure off the starters. Maybe that’s what Huddy needs; perhaps he’s just been trying to be too perfect… I don’t know, but he’s certainly been the mystery of the year. Nasty stuff, but up in the strike zone. Could there be an underlying physical reason for his inability to keep his pitches down?

By KC

August 3, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

Who isn’t as good as last year Grinch? Tim Hudson? Yeah… I don’t think that has much to do with a pitching coach.

Nobody in our bullpen was even around last year.

R.Mcdowell has HoRam keeping the ball out of the bleachers this year… that’s certainly an accomplishment considering he gave up more round-trips than a Wendy’s-Airtran promotion last season.

Who’s underperformance is McDowell to blame for?

By Lew

August 3, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this

Grinh-You got to limit yourself to the potato patch, dude, all that other stuff will give you a headache. KC-interesting point on the loss column. I still want to see us at .500 first.

By KC

August 3, 2006 09:53 AM | Link to this

VOR:

Maybe it’s time to hook Hudson up with that sports Psychologist Smoltz met with years ago.

By dadgum

August 3, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

True, you must win series but not necessarily every one. Simply we need to play .650+ baseball the remainder of the season. This would include sweeping someone (like Pittsburgh today) so that we have some margin for error down the road. I still think with all the teams we have to contend with it will take closer to .700 ball to win the wild card.

And people yes it does matter how many teams are in front of you. There is no guarantee that another team won’t end up playing .650 ball and counter our run.

In addition we seem to be forgetting one thing. Technically for this arguement’s sake the Braves are no longer playing in the NL East. The Mets have that in the bag (hopefully nobody is still holding out hope for that). The Braves are playing in the NL Wild Card Division and are entrenched there with the other also rans albeit within striking distance. Having no realistic chance to pass the Mets keeps the Braves in the Wild Card Division the rest of the season. Thus in a tightly bunched race as this any wild card team now that possibly overtakes a division opponent thrusts that division leader back into the wild card race. That is not good for the Braves but should that happen sometimes that new wild card contender could fall in line behind the Braves. My point is that in close races you also have to look at division leaders that may fall out of the lead.

Let’s just keep winning it is all you can do and see how it plays out. In my mind we have to contend with more teams than you think and it certainly does matter how many teams are ahead of you. You have to raelistically win close to that .700 mark post your record and see what shakes out. Anyone remember Houston last year. If our starting pitching (Hudson especially)plays lights out I think it will happen and yes I do feel strongly that close to .700 ball will get it done.

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

KC, I think the bullpen is looking pretty good right now. I’m mainly talking about Hudson and the half-dozen relief pitchers who’ve been jettisoned so far this year from the bullpen in order for it to be where it is now. Plus, Sosa’s looked good twice in a row now since he’s been traded. These guys all looked like they’d be better coming into this year than they were. That may be a coincidence, but it’s a mighty big one. Plus, my head hurts and I’m grouchy. Lew, good advice. However, I was out of potatoes and the store was closed. GATORADE…….

By Lew

August 3, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this

KC-I saw that psychologist on a commercial for Turner South the other day-I think the Braves’ brought him in to help stop June. Hudson could definitely use a session. Big Yaz Bread-I live in New England and never even heard of that paper. Besides, you describe a situation that isn’t going to happen.

By Kevrock

August 3, 2006 10:10 AM | Link to this

IT is time to trade Tim Hudson back to the American League. He just isn’t that good. We should have traded for Mulder instead of Hudson of the two back in ‘05.

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:13 AM | Link to this

Kevrock:

You did look at Mulder’s numbers before saying that, right?

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

Lew:

Don’t you live up north somewhere? How did you see Turner South?

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

I actually still have a good feeling every time Hudson goes out there. I still feel a little bit of anticipation when he’s scheduled to start. There’s always a part of me that thinks “today will be the day he turns it around”.

Let’s hope that little part of me is right… soon.

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:20 AM | Link to this

Let’s all channel our positive energy to Tim Hudson today.

I have no idea what in the hell that means… but it sounds good.

By bigboi

August 3, 2006 10:21 AM | Link to this

Can anybody tell me why Sosa is pitching so good now that he’s in St. Louis? He’s gone 4 innings and has only given up one hit, granted that hit was a homer, but he’s almost lights out. Maybe that was a bad move.

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 10:24 AM | Link to this

 I don't really know anything about McDowell much, and he may be much better than I'm giving him credit for.  I just don't think Leo would have stood for Reitsma pitching every night fot 2 1/2 months with no feeling in his hand and lying about it; I think he would've got to the bottom sooner.  I also don't think he would put up with Thompson's nancy-boy BS, nor would he have allowed Sosa to keep grooving every pitch letter-high down the middle without working him a little harder on his mechanics.  I know, he's not god nor is he doing all that great in Baltimore, I just think most of this season a lot of our pitchers acted like  students do when there's a substitute teacher in.  Things are working better now, and it may have nothing to do with anything I just said; just making an observation.  Plus, an hour ago I was looking for anyone to blame about anything.  It was McDowell's fault he didn't have the bullpen warm to relieve me before my last two screwdrivers last night.  2 advil and 64 oz. of lemon-lime gatorade later, he don't look so bad.  :-)

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:24 AM | Link to this

This game is largely mental. Looks like a change of scenery is serving Sosa well.

Either that or he’s just been lucky nobody’s knocked the #$%@^%# out him yet.

By The Grinch

August 3, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this

Man, that was a heck of a long post that didn’t go through right. I’m too tired to re-post it. Nap…..

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

FYI - the waiver process is an unpublicized process. Even the players themselves aren’t aware. Unless some sanity-challenged GM somewhere shoots his mouth off, nobody knows. And it’s in all GM’s better interests to keep such things out of the media.

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

The Grinch:

Unless you have some reliable “inside” information we don’t know about… I don’t think there’s any way you can say that McDowell wasn’t taking as tough or as proactive an approach as Leo would have. You and I aren’t in the clubhouse or at the bullpen sessions with Roger M. and the pitching staff. Anything we say about R.Mcdowell’s approach is all speculation.

And regardless of what he does or Leo does… it all comes down to the guy toe-ing the rubber.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

KC-I have the MLB Extra Innings package on digital cable. It costs $160 a year, but there have only been 4 games not televised this year with it, ESPN and TBS. The other four I get on XM Radio. OOps, I did miss one-I was at Schilling’s 200th at Fenway. It’s expensive, but I got to see my Braves. Last year I only missed 2 games. Last two nights, however, I got the Pirates feed. It isn’t always the Braves announcers, which does give you a different view.

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

Somebody referenced the sports psychologist that helped Smoltz years ago. I heard a report last week that mentioned Dr. Jack Lewellen and noted that he is still employed by the Braves to work with the players on an as needed basis. I would think that Huddy is as needy as anyone right now…

By KC

August 3, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know if Don Sutton is still with the Braves broadcast team? It doesn’t seem like I’ve seen or heard him in a good while.

By dadgum

August 3, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this

New digs can be just what the doctor ordered for Sosa but we won’t miss him or his attitude.

Just FYI….Scalamandre that we got in return had an excellent outing last night here in Richmond. John S. was in attendance evaluating talent to call up. He had to like what he saw of his new acquisition. Most likely he will be a Sept. call up along with Bryan Pena and maybe a couple of others. As I posted yesterday, Richmond is about 24 games back in their division as most of the talent bypasses Richmond these days, ditto the fans. The Braves and Richmond are estranged. JS indicated in the paper today that the Braves would like to stay in Richmond but that the facility is among the 2-3 worst in the minors even though back in the day it was just the opposite.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

Sutton is still with them, but apparently he, Van Wieren and the Carays only do radio and TBS broadcasts now that TS has been sold to Fox. Sutton was also at the HOF Induction last weekend, which may be why he wasn’t on Sunday.

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 10:49 AM | Link to this

Don’t feel bad Lew. We in Atlanta rarely get the Braves real announcers anymore. I tolerate Bob Rathburn and Jeff Torborg, but only because I have little choice. I wouldn’t discount a little bad kharma in assessing the Braves less than stellar season so far. Remember when the Braves reeled off 13 straight wins to open the 1982 season and go wire to wire? They removed Chief Knockahoma’s teepee from the left field seats (to sell a few more tickets) with about 3 weeks to go in the regular season and immediately tanked. They barely held off LA only because LA lost in their final game. Of course, St. Louis swept the Braves in the NLCS. Maybe they ought to invite the good Chief back this year… of course he’s probably in that great buffalo hunting ground in the sky by now… I do remember his cute “daughter” Hitasingle… of sourse, 25 years can seriously have effects on the chick’s appeal… Man, am I rambling…?

By big yaz bread

August 3, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

Hey Lew etc. Don’t blame me about the story in the Tribune just look it up. the site is eagletribune.com It is on the fron page. By the way the paper has been around for about 100 years. Look it up pal. It is the Lawrence Eagle Tribune. They have beat writers for all the Boston sports teams and Russ Conway won national awards for breaking the Alan Eagleson story that got him sent to jail for stealing from Bobby Orr and others. Maybe you need to expand your New England horizons.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 10:56 AM | Link to this

VOR-I do remember that. I was finishing my rookie year teaching in Georgia. Remember Bob Watson’s HR against the Dodgers?

By Lew

August 3, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this

Big Yaz-I’m not blaming you and I don’t doubt it was in the paper. My point was that this will not happen (at least not this year). ALL newspapers up here have Pro Sports stringers, so that’s no real big deal. However, as someone mentioned earlier, the waiver process is not public, so they wouldn’t know if no one else did. I wouldn’t believe it if it was in the Barre Times-Argus, either. Where are you from man?

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this

LEW:

Yeah, I was aware of them no longer being on TS (sadly). I just don’t remember having seen or heard him at all lately on TBS or on the radio.

Yeah, nothing against Rathburn or Torborg personally, but I can’t stand them. The real Braves announcers really are much better. They just add so much more life and personality to the games.

The frustrating thing is that I can’t turn down the TV and turn up the radio because I have Dish Network and the satellite delay is too pronounced.

I’m wondering if there’s a satellite delay on XM radio to match the delay on satellite TV? Does anyone here have XM or Sirius? Can you tell me the answer to that?

If so, I might get satellite radio and the MLB packge, just so I can listen to the real Braves announcers.

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this

I wish my memory was that good, but it isn’t. (Killed off too many brain cells during my heathen years…) I do remember, though, some of the players from that team. Murph, Horner and his navicular bone, Mahler, Knucksie, Albert Hall, Claudell Washington and the widest shoulders I ever saw. (I remember Skip Carey describing him as looking like he didn’t take the hanger out from his shirt before putting it on…) How about Rufino Linares, who led the league in PH, and Terry Harper who dislocated his shoulder waving a runner home from 3rd? Classic…

By Lew

August 3, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this

KC-Yes the delay on XM matches the satellite since it is also satellite. The delay drives you crazy. So does gameday on the computer. However, if it means not having Braves’ baseball……

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this

LEW: Do you have the MLB package on XM?

By Big Yaz Bread

August 3, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this

Lew and all. I am from New England. Old enough to have actually tried Big Yaz Bread. We all know I think that is east enough to inside sources to leak waiver wire info. If you all don’t think the players know about the waiver wire info, they do. Their agents get ALL that stuff from insiders. Anyway here is the story. Believe it or not. Your choice.

Published: August 03, 2006 12:00 am

Sox still have a chance of acquiring Jones

Eagle-Tribune

View as a multiple pages

The Eagle-Tribune has learned that a recent target of the Red Sox at the non-waiver trading deadline, Atlanta outfielder Andruw Jones, was placed on waivers by the Braves Tuesday. The move by the Braves starts a process in which teams have a chance to claim Jones, which expires after 47 hours (The team with the worst record is allowed to choose first, but if the worst record is shared by teams in both leagues, then the team in the same league is allowed first choice). If the outfielder does pass through waivers, then it would allow Atlanta to trade Jones to a team such as the Red Sox, who had been offered the center fielder in a package including Coco Crisp, Craig Hansen and Jon Lester the night before the trading deadline.

Whatever team claims Jones gets 48 hours to exclusively negotiate a deal with the Braves. A prime candidate to stake a claim before the Red Sox’s turn comes up would be the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, who were the other team Atlanta inquired about regarding a potential pre-non-waiver trade.

The impetus for the Braves to deal Jones is that he becomes a 10-5 player in seven days (10 years in the major leagues, 5 years with the same team), allowing the outfielder to veto any trade for the duration of his contract. Jones makes $13 million this season and $13.5 million in the final year of his deal next season.

It was reported in the Providence Journal-Bulletin that Boston’s intention regarding the acquisition of Jones was to turn around and trade him for Houston starting pitcher Roy Oswalt. As of last night, it was not believed that Oswalt had been placed on waivers by the Astros.

Also of interest to the Red Sox were the list of catchers who were placed on waivers, which included: Baltimore’s Javy Lopez; Cincinnati’s Jason LaRue; Toronto’s Benjie Molina; and Arizona’s Johnny Estrada.

• Rob Bradford

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

I was told by a person more technically minded than me that satellite delays can vary… so I’m just wondering if the Dish Network and XM delays might be different at all…

Does XM radio’s MLB package give you the option of listening to your team’s broadcast every time, or does it just choose just one of the team’s broadcast during a given game and air only that?

In other words, if I get XM and the MLB package, would I wind up listening to the other team’s broadcast half the time?

By Lew

August 3, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

KC-If you have XM, you automatically receive EVERY MLB game EVERY day. You don’t pay extra, it’s part of their regular programming. Plus you get MLB Home Plate which has 24 hr. commentary all year. You have to pay about $150 for your boom box style receiver, but you can detach the receiver from the box and put it in your car-a conversion package is included with the boom box. Service for the car (mine came with my car) and the house runs me $22.14 a month. The MLB Extra inning package is only available on digital cable and the charge you $40 a month for 4 months on your cable bill. You get about 15 games each day and is nice if you follow more than one team, or you like to switch back and forth if you’re in a race with other teams. This is where all that tv money is coming from for the teams.

By MGL

August 3, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

Looks like Salty is pulling a LaRoche in Miss. In the last week, he has moved his AVE from .211 to .233 All multi-hit games and 2 HR in one of them.

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

KC - There is a product on the market called Delay Play Radio which is specifically designed to sync radio broadcasts with TV/cable/satellite broadasts. Click here to link to their web site. Unfortunately it is a bit pricey, as you might expect…

By Lew

August 3, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

KC-It varies as to whose feed you hear. Both on XM and the Extra Innings package on TV. The past 2 days, TS broadcasted, but the Pirates feed aired. As far as the MLB package on digital cable goes, you will not hear Skip, Pete. etc., because they only do TV on TBS where you wouldn’t need an expensive package. If you live in the Braves radio flagship area, you already have them on radio. XM varies as to the feed. Yaz-I hear you dude, but I’ll believe it when AJC or the Braves’ website announces it. I don’t think they plan to let him go. Not for what was offered the other day, anyway. Coco Crisp without Lester or Papelbon is a slap in the face. Crisp sure ain’t all that!

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:28 AM | Link to this

I think the Eagle-tribune needs to find more reliable sources for information.

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

VOR:

Thank you! I had no idea there was a product for that specific purpose. COOL! I probably won’t get it now, but it’ll go on my Christmas list for next season.

If the manufacturer’s were smart, they would start running ads for that device on 96-Rock (for those of you not in Atlanta, that’s the flagship Braves station in Atlanta).

I know I’m not the only one that wants to puke every time Rathburn and Torborg come on.

By mariner

August 3, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

espn is reporting the same story about andruw being placed on waivers. it’s not a big deal or the least bit unusual. hundreds of players will be placed on waivers this month. this probably isn’t the first time he’s been on waivers. he’ll probably be claimed by another team long before boston gets a chance. at which point the braves can recall him from waivers, or try to work out a deal. it’s just normal august business for gm’s everywhere.

By dadgum

August 3, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this

Well folks the waiver wire is not publicised as we know it. There is a waiver wire and it is checked daily by about 20 people connected with every team.

Andruw Jones if on it will definitely be “claimed” by about every team. If more than 1 team claims him then regardless of the posted time of the claim the team with the worst record in the league percentage wise gets to be 1st in line so to speak. The Braves would deal with that team should they decide to if that team has a player(s)they want to acquire. If not they can simply pull him back. They also have the option of doing nothing and letting the claiming team have him(not in Andruw’s case the Braves wouldn’t let that happen)and finally a player can “clear” waivers in other words not be claimed. Then The Braves woudl be free to trade him just as before the deadline to any team, however, if it is for players in return then those players must go through the waiver process and clear before the trade can happen.

Waiver trades are very complicated obviously and you can bet any trade involving Andrew won’t happen if he doesn’t clear waivers. Can you just imagine Pittsburgh laying claim to him and the Braves trading hime to Pittsburgh. Who could you possibly get in return to even invision that happening.

I would bet that the Braves did put Andruw on waivers ditto Hudson and maybe a few others just to test the water. There is no harm in that to gauge interest. Also with Andruw almost a 10/5 guy the Braves may as well test every avenue although the chances are very remote of Andruw being in a waiver trade and getting anything significant to warrant the Braves going this route.

I do think Andruw will be traded and he will waive his trade veto power should the right team come along in the off season. If I had to handicap that scenario: #1- Boston (Crisp,Lester), #2- Houston (Oswalt and others), #3- Dodgers(Braves West with money), #4-Yankees (just because they are the Yankees but they just got Abreu and money is not a object). What I would personally like to see is Tampa Bay for Kazmir and Crawford.

Regardless pull for Andruw to finish strong so his trade value stays high. GM’s are still worried about his off speed hitting.

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

LEW:

Thanks for the XM info!

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 11:38 AM | Link to this

It only makes good business sense to pass Andruw through waivers. His contract precludes any claimers and his waiver status enables fishers like the Sox to wade into the deep water and throw out a line. You gotta admit, if another team offered a package of players comparable to Lester/Hanson/Crisp, you gotta listen, don’t ya?

While a believe any deal involving AJ is extrememly unlikely, JS is simply giving himself the widest path in which to venture.

By KC

August 3, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

dadgum:

Good insight on the waiver process. Andruw’s not going anywhere this year. And he’ll only be moved in the off-season if the right offer comes along. As to you’re last statement… the D-Rays would have no interest in a high-priced player like Andruw. Certainly not at the expense of two young, very productive, and low-cost players.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I could see the Pirates. I’ll take Freddy Sanchez, Zach Duke and that kid who opened the series for the Pirates. You can throw in Xavier Nady, too. Works for me.

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

Why would “about every team” claim AJ? If a team makes a waiver claim, they run the risk of having a $13M salary suddenly dumped on them. While we all know the Braves would never do that, a $13M roll of the dice is pretty hefty for just about any team outside of NYY and BOS.

By TommyB

August 3, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

From MLBTradeRumors.com Andruw Jones Placed On Waivers? Rob Bradford of Massachusett’s Eagle-Tribune apparently writes that Andruw Jones has been placed on waivers by the Braves. I discovered this via Buster Olney’s blog, but I can’t find any online account of Bradford’s article. Said Olney:

“In any event, I seriously doubt Jones will be playing for anybody but the Braves, despite the fact that in the next week, he’ll earn the 10-and-5 right to veto any trade. But we’ll soon know if anybody has placed a claim, and whether the Braves are willing to discuss a trade.”

Jones makes $13.5MM next season in the last year of his contract. He’ll turn 30 in the beginning of the ‘07 season. Andruw’s .350 OBP and .514 SLG are right in line with career norms. Baseball Prospectus expects him to remain at this level until about 2009. Remember, National League teams would get the first crack at Jones if more than one club puts in a claim. I could see the Cardinals and Astros putting in claims. If the Braves can’t make a deal with the team that claimed Jones, they can always just pull him back.

For a good summary of how waiver trades work, consult Steve Phillips’s article from a year ago.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

One last thought on the equity of trades. It’s time to eat and get ready for the 12:30 start on TBS. Everyone seems to be getting real excited over any deal involving Coco Crisp. Keep in mind, also, that Boston offered him with Hanse, a career 4.94 ERA and shut down negotiations when JS brought up Lester. First Lester is only 5-1 in the bigs. I seem to remember that Kyle Davies was once 5-1 with a stud ERA early in his career, too. Now-Crisp. He has a .251 Avg. against RHP, which is predominantly what he will face in the NL. He has never played more that 145 games in a season and has played only 62 this season. He misses an average of 25 games a year, can’t field like Andruw and can’t hit righties. Now, lest someone bring up his blazing spped and leadoff ability, he bats second and has never stolen more than 20 bases in a season. Big Flipping Deal. Now people want to trade him for a player who is a guaranteed 35-50 HR 120 RBI guy, a 5 time All Star who is set to win his 9th Gold Glove. People, where is the equity in this deal. Now as far as Crawfor and Kazmir. If Coco Crisp is woth Andruw Jones, what is Crawford worth? And you expect the Rays to throw in Kazmir, a #1 starter with proven ability, ML experince and a cheap contract for several more years. I don’t think so. EVERYONE wants a Kazmir-we can’t pay the price.

By Boomer

August 3, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Lets see;

We were 7-3 at home before the break, 7-2 on the road after the break, 1-5 at home, and now 2-0 on the road. If my calculations are correct we are 17-10 since John Smoltz said we needed to go 8-2 on the homestand before the break. That equates to .629%.

Was the 1-5 homestand an aberation? We do not play as well at home. Or did we just run into the 2 best teams in the National League (The Marlins and Mets) at a bad time with Chipper and Andruw out part of the time?

I know our pitching has been bad but I do not think the cardinals would beat us in a series (they are really struggling), the Reds sure don’t scare me (they are also struggling).

Even with the 1-5 homestand we are playing pretty good baseball and the national leaque is weak. The way teams are performing right now the Mets, Marlins, and Braves might be the 3 best teams going.

By dadgum

August 3, 2006 12:14 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones was put on waivers that has been confirmed by ESPN. His 48 hours is up supposedly at 12 tomorrow. It could be midnight tonight reports are conflicting. Just a formality folks or at least right now it is.

The Tampa deal in my last post would be what I would like to see. Tampa certainly wouldn’t do that. Definitely I see Boston and Houston as the front runners or in some 3 way deal. Anyway that is my take.

By David O'Brien

August 3, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

Fellas (and Carolina Lady, if she’s online): Just wanted to wade in here quickly on the Andruw waivers matter, rather than let this be the latest point to get twisted by some with agendas or wishful thinking here.

First, it is absolutely typical for a team to put such a player on waivers to, as dadgum or someone else here pointed out, test the waters. No reason whatsoever not to do it. There’s nothing to lose.

Only a few higher-payrolled teams would risk putting a claim on Andruw and absorbing the remainder of his salary this season and next year’s $13.5 mill commitment.

If someone claims him and Braves can’t work a deal with that team to their (Braves) liking, they’d just pull him back. No harm done. People, believe me, some teams put their ENTIRE ROSTER on waivers this time of year, just so the ones who clear can then be traded if a deal pops up quickly in August and a contending team gets desperate for a player after an injury or whatever to someone a contending team was counted on.

Desperate teams sometimes make desperate deals, and if another team’s players have already cleared waivers, they can deal those guys. If a team hasn’t gone through the process, it puts itself in a weakened position of being unable to do something until going through the entire waiver process; meanwhile the desperate team will likely have moved on to do a deal with someone else.

The fact that Andruw becomes a 10-5 guy next week simply adds one more reason to do this with him. Because if, say, the Red Sox came back and caved to Schuerholz’s demands (and he might even ask for more, this time around), then the Braves could do the move. Like I’ve said before, I don’t think Andruw would block a move anyway to a team like the Sox or another tradition-rich team in a good city with a chance to get to the World Series, etc, and possibly re-sign him to a big extension.

Again, this waivers move is REALLY COMMON, so don’t let some folks weighing in here later tell you it’s not. I know at least one who’ll come in here and start shouting about how the Braves are SHOPPING Andruw when that’s not what this means. Like I’ve said, teams routinely put their high-priced stars on waivers just in case, because they can be pulled back without losing them anyway.

Speaking of that person who’d come in here shouting like he knows what he’s talking about: Sean, I resisted the urge several times to weigh in the other day when you were pontificating on a subject you have no clue about _ the Braves supposedly “shopping” Andruw.

Let me put it clearly: There’s a HUGE difference between “shopping” a player and being willing to take calls and tell teams what it would take to get that player. And I went back and called my buddy Gordon Edes, who covers the Sox for the Boston Glove, to MAKE SURE that from the Sox’ perspective, the story was same that I was getting from Braves people. It was _ the SOX MADE THE CALL to Schuerholz, who told them what it would take, and that was that. No further discussions. No further negotiations.

The Sox made the call, and Schuerholz took it. Why wouldn’t he, for a guy about to be 10/5 guy and who has one year left on his contract? It’d be irresponsble not to take the call, to sit back and say, no, Andruw is totally untouchable. Then you end up like Nationals with Soriano a year from now, with the player having all leverage and able to demand whatever he wants because you’ve either not listened to offers from other teams or turned down reasonable offers or even really good offers, holding out for more.

The Braves want to re-sign Andruw, but whether the “too costly” point is $15 mill a year, $17 mill, $20 mill … there is such a cost that becomes prohibitive. I don’t know what that cost is, but you have to at least entertain offers from other teams in the interim, to guage interest, to jack the offers as high as you can get them, in case you’re told later that budget has been reduced or in case Jones’ price simply gets too high for an $80 mill payroll.

Now, unless you (Shawn, or Sean, sorry I forgot the spelling) have other sources who’ve told you otherwise, who’ve told you Braves were actively shopping Andruw, then stop giving misinformation or changing the story and trying to make it fit your agenda. Redx Sox called them. As did the Chicago White Sox. Braves didn’t call those teams peddling Andruw.

By David O'Brien

August 3, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I’m still waking up. Made a bunch of typos in that post, including Boston GLOBE, not Glove. Obviously.

By JasonInMaine

August 3, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Frenchy sure has been hitting pop-ups the the 1B quite a bit lately. I hope he goes on another hot streak soon…especially if LaRoche is out for any amount of time!

Regards, Jason

By Lew

August 3, 2006 01:01 PM | Link to this

I wonder if there’s a way to put a uniform on that sports shrink, name him co-pitching coach and have him visit Hudson on the mound every inning. This is getting flipping ridiculous. DOB-Welcome back. Does Hudson still claim there’s nothing wrong with him?

By Mets Stink

August 3, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this

Looks like Huddy is up to par today. 1 IP, 2 Runs.

By Bammer

August 3, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

maybe instead of five good innings and then a meltdown, huddy perhaps got the struggles out of the way early and will get it together the rest of the day

By Braves20

August 3, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

Tim Hudson seems to be the reincarnation of Reitsma in our starting rotation. Fortunately, we may be able to outscore these guys until we get to our pens (advantage Braves).

By dadgum

August 3, 2006 01:09 PM | Link to this

DOB….I wouldn’t be surprised though that another Brave player or two isn’t claimed and the Braves work out a trade with the claimant involving a starting pitcher. Not going to get into scenarios and get long winded (again) but I think the Braves want another solid starter to fill in the rotation as insurance against Huddy not ever coming around and Davies in particular not being effective upon his return.

Obviously any player in August can be on a post season roster so given the Braves are still a serious wild card contender it wouldn’t be a shock if the Braves do a waiver trade and add that starter. It may be a starter somewhat under the radar in the American League perhaps.

By KC

August 3, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

Another great start for Hudson. Swell.

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

Hudson has already allowed 2 runs in the first inning. What are we gonna do with him? Does anyone else remember the days when we never allowed a run in the first inning? I guess that was about 10 years ago.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

ARRRRGGGG!!!!!

By Bammer

August 3, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

if i remember correctly, seems like glavine often allowed runs in the first inning and then nothing afterward. i think the first inning is toughest for starters, since they’re not in a rhythm.

By KC

August 3, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

Hudson just had a good inning.

I hereby declare Hudson’s struggles over and done with!

Thus sayeth KC.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

Wow Huddy, nice inning! Keep it up! Okay offense, your turn.

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

LAA reportedly offered Ervin Santana/Chone Figgins/Howie Kendrick for Tejada on Monday. They also have been linked to an interest in AJ. An 11-5 starter plus a CF with 40 SB’s plus a young 2B batting over .300 in 22 games… Would they offer the same for AJ?

By mariner

August 3, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

i don’t see how any of those angels players get through waivers

By TennesseePaul

August 3, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

I’m beginning to wonder how Hudson can even look himself in the mirror.

By Rick Roberts

August 3, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

KC thanks Atlanta for Dayton Moore! His trades/changes have had an immediate impact and he isn’t through. Look for KC to be a .500 team in ‘08 with much improvement shown in ‘07. Dayton would like Tony Pena, JR. as KC needs a good, young SS. How about it John?

By Mike

August 3, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

Can anyone confirm the rumors that Andruw Jones was just placed on the waiver wire? Here is the link http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/

By Voice of Reason

August 3, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

Mariner - Not necessarily through waivers but perhaps in the offseason…

By KC

August 3, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

Joe Simpson just suggested that Frechy might be ready for a day off. I agree. He’s hitting .257 since the all-star break, and hasn’t been much of a run producer lately. Give him a day off.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

Mike, check out DOB’s post just a few above yours.

Come on offense, let’s geaux!!

By Carolina Lady

August 3, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

Hi, DOB! Yep, I’m here, too. Why, I have some Boston gloves - and lovely they are, too! :-))

Really appreciate the info and explanation! I was getting a knot in my stomach. Did you send the cheese to ransom jimmy smith??

By KC

August 3, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

MIKE

Scroll up to DOB’s 12:27 post.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

Once again a rally killing strike out. I know Huddy is a pitcher, but he is also a major leaguer. Just put wood on the ball, come on guys! There’s been way too many wasted chances already.

Geaux Braves!!

By KC

August 3, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

This is looking very, very good. Keep it going Huddy!!

By Del

August 3, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this

Mr Clutch Aybar ain’t !!!

By ncscoots

August 3, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

hard to believe, but Chacon is even more brutal than Hudson. Braves should have at least 4 off this guy already.

By Longwood's Finest

August 3, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this

Big inning….I can feel it… (i hope)

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

Somebody hit the ball!!!!!

By JasonInMaine

August 3, 2006 01:59 PM | Link to this

When the Yankees got Abreu, Buster Olney made a very good point about how he leads baseball in pitches seen per at bat. ESPN News displayed how many pitches each person in the Yankess lineup sees per at bat, and it would be hard for a pitcher to throw less than 100 pitches in 6 innings. I would like to see who is last in such statistics…I have a guess!!

Regards,

Jason

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

2 runs through 5 for Hudson. That’s better than it was looking after 1. Now where is the offense?!?!

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

You have got to be kidding me. Two outs on three pitches on a pitcher just put in the game. This is ridiculous.

By mariner

August 3, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

i think francouer needs to have an extended sit down.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 02:09 PM | Link to this

Ah yes, that was a productive half inning from the offense.

By Hot Day

August 3, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

Hot day in Pittsburgh and Hudson makes it to the 6th inning….I don’t have a good feeling about this game at this point.

By hk

August 3, 2006 02:13 PM | Link to this

… OK, Huddy doing fine, 80 pitches through 5, not bad, but now comes the acid test … he tends to lose location in either the 6th or the 7th … this inning and the next are key ..

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

The illusive 6th inning rears it’s ugly head again.

By hk

August 3, 2006 02:18 PM | Link to this

… it’s happening again …

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this

Here we go. Again. Intentional walk now. Can anybody say grand slam for a guy hitting .200?

By TommyB

August 3, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

From mlbtraderumors.com:

Red Sox Pursuing Javy Lopez Newspapers from both Boston and Baltimore are confirming that the Red Sox have contacted the Orioles about catcher Javy Lopez. The 35 year-old Lopez has only caught twenty games this season, but he could certainly provide acceptable offense for the rest of the month until Jason Varitek comes back.

The Boston Herald indicates that Lopez could clear waivers today. A source tells me that the Red Sox may part with 23 year-old southpaw starter Abe Alvarez. Alvarez is the guy who wears his hat crooked to compensate for being legally blind in one eye. He’s proven quite hittable in Triple A this year. Back in June, the Red Sox offered Alvarez for Ryan Shealy. Alvarez seems to get mentioned in a lot of trade rumors.

The Yankees wouldn’t be able to block a claim of Lopez, as they have a slight lead in the standings today. It’s hard to picture another American League team blocking the claim, but you never know. Should Lopez fall through, here are some other options the Red Sox might consider. Among those, a couple of Philly papers have already indicated that the Sox aren’t interested in Mike Lieberthal.

By Braves20

August 3, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

Hudson is as predictable as an afternoon shower here in Florida. Shouldn’t our “brain trust” catch on and have the pen up at the beggining of the 6th?

By Chop Chop

August 3, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

The Braves should’ve had five or six runs off of Chaka Khan today, so a loss would be understandable.

At least Hudson got out of that jam without giving up more than one run. 6 innings, 3 runs allowed…I’ll take that from Hudson right now.

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

Amazing. Something good actually happened for Hudson.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

Made it through the 6th. The shrink must be in the dugout.

By Tony Almeida

August 3, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

Can anybody say double play for a guy hitting .200?

By Longwood's Finest

August 3, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

That a boy Huddy…. He showed up today, too bad the offense was left at the hotel.

By Don

August 3, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

DOB, you can act like anything that didn’t come from you was simply made up, and belittle anybody who suggested that Andruw was shopped, but that’s what Jon Heyman of CNNSI wrote on Monday. I have no idea whether he is right or you are. I would guess your source is JS and his source is with the White Sox or the Red Sox or both. Schuerholz could be spinning to you, Heyman’s source or sources could be spinning to him. I’m inclined to believe JS on this one but I wouldn’t put any serious money on it.

If you don’t believe it, here’s the relevant piece of what Heyman wrote on Monday and the link.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/jon_heyman/07/31/daily.scoop/index.html

By MBATL

August 3, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine, I think this page has the kind of stats you’re looking for

Looks like we’re about 4th from last in the league in pitches/at bat…

You’ll have to scroll down to find the NL batting stats.

By JasonInMaine

August 3, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

Come on O…let’s get it going…you are facing the Pirates!!!

By hk

August 3, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

… whew !!! … funny, over the years I have noticed that in tennis matches, when a player stops and reties his shoe, that tends to play with more focus afterward … I wonder if that’s what just happened to Huddy, stopping for a few seconds to focus on some mechanical detail brought him back … I have felt all along his was not a mechanical problem, but more, as Carolina Lady would say, a ‘between the ears’ problem …

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

WTG Huddy, way to get out of that inning. Considering the past, an excellent showing today. The offense has had their chances to score more than Huddy gave up, but they didn’t, so if Huddy does lose this game, can’t pin it on him.

By JasonInMaine

August 3, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

Thanks MBATL. Man, I can’t believe we got one stinking run off of Chacon and crew. I know our batting averages for this lineup is awful, but 1 run off of this guy? Come on!

By Longwood's Finest

August 3, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

6K’s in 6 innings 3 ER..vintage Hudson, too bad for him the boy’s forgot how to hit

By Don

August 3, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

I managed not to paste what Heyman wrote about Andruw along with the link. Here it is:

The Braves are shopping Andruw Jones around, hoping to land young pitching in return for the eight-time Gold Glove center fielder. Atlanta asked the White Sox for right-hander Brandon McCarthy but were rejected. They are still in talks with the Red Sox for a package that may include left-hander Jon Lester, who is 5-1 with a 3.49 ERA during his rookie season.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

Don-The article said “Theo Epstein was said” it didn’t quote him directly so maybe JS was a closer source. In the final accounting, however, Andruw will or will not be a BRave as the case may be. If it happens, what will it matter who initiated the move? If it doesn’t, it won’t matter either. All I’m concerned with is coming up with something much more equitable thean Crisp and Hansen for Andruw. Lester may have a future, but how many pitchers do you know who went 5-1 with a 3.89 their first few games and then dropped off the radar?

By Chop Chop

August 3, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

Don,

DOB said that the White Sox and Red Sox called Schuerholz, not the other way around. Any writer can say that a guy is being “shopped” if potential trades are being bandied about, but it takes a more intelligent writer to realize that, as DOB stated, if a GM takes calls about players, that does not mean he is “shopping” them.

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

Paronto does a good job again. Need some runs though. And Hudson did a good job today. Cant really blame him if this turns into a L.

By NORM

August 3, 2006 02:42 PM | Link to this

Jernalis Smith is starting to drool and babble from lisening to Joe Morgan all night at high volyum. Jernalis is close to braking. What is the statis of the pie, cheese, root beer, ice cream, and cold watermelan? Soon, Jernalis will have to be delt with if ransum is not profferd. Many runners lefft on base today. Bobby is spittting seeds in dugout. Andrue is now on secund. tying run.

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else hate that corner out in left-center? Two hits in a row there. Could at least one of them have made it out without it?

By Don

August 3, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

The reference I snipped about Andruw doesn’t say a word about Theo Epstein. I’m making no comment about whether or not the proposed deals make any sense.

I’ve seen plenty of pitchers drop off after a few games, but the sum total of what a pitcher is worth isn’t what he does in the big leagues in the first couple of months. Guys like Glavine, Smoltz and Avery were regarded as top prospects and essentially untradable by the Braves even when they struggled early. A guy like Kazmir falls into the same category. On the other hand, I’ve never read that the Braves thought Damian Moss was a potential ace because he had a pretty good record his first year (and then was traded for Russ Ortiz with the Giants partially motivated by reducing payroll).

Apparently Lester is regarded as more like Kazmir or Glavine was at the same stage than like Damian Moss.

By Braves20

August 3, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

The guy is weaing his IQ on his back - five swings - four outs. Come Terry, earned your damned money!

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

Gee, Francouer made another out on the 1st pitch. Shocker. I like him on this team, but he has got to stop swinging at EVERYTHING!! This really is getting stupid.

One more try, come on offense, let’s see Wickman pitch the bottom of the 9th.

Geaux Braves!!

By Tony Almeida

August 3, 2006 02:51 PM | Link to this

Yippeeee…now we get to see Pete Orr’s smokin bat in the ninth.

By Lew

August 3, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Don-I read it on the link you posted. I know you weren’t commenting on the deal, I just figured it was an appropriate place to throw it in. Sorry.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

I think I’ll use my hand to hammer this nail in the wall. Ow, that hurt. Well, that didn’t work, I think I’ll try something else. See, only took me once to learn when something isn’t working. Frenchy??

Sorry, just frustrated.

Geaux Braves.

By KC

August 3, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

Well, all in all… I think Huddy’s start was encouraging. It wasn’t a fabulous start, but he looked decent today.

By Longwood's Finest

August 3, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

I hope Roachie pinch hits

By Chop Chop

August 3, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

Pratt is a great pinch hitter. He’s my first choice in any situation.

By Braves20

August 3, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

Gee why didn’t we just DH Todd during our American League games? What a threat!

By David O'Brien

August 3, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

Don, two things: My source absolutely was NOT Schuerholz, who never, ever discusses this stuff, on or off the record. Though he did remind me (i’m sure so I’d write it) that such discussions literally occur year-round, but that nobody pays attention and writes about it most of the year because, frankly, no one calls their GM each day of the year and says, did you talk to anybody today about any of your players.

That media focus only is heightened around trade-deadline time, especially when so many writers are paid good money by so many different media outlets in this era to cover the national angle, trades and the like. Any source with any team could tell you every player exposed to waivers, and believe me, there are tons of high-priced players exposed, superstars exposed for the reasons I tried to explain _ if a deal comes up, a team wants to be nimble and be able to listen to offers, which it can do in August if it’s tradeable players have already cleared waivers. If they haven’t, said team can’t be nimble and respond to offers, because it has to wait and initiate the whole waivers process and let it play out.

Anyway, as I said, I talked to Gordon Edes, who’s been covering the Sox as a beat guy longer than anybody in that market right now (I used to work with him in Florida, long ago) to ask him if he was absolutely sure that the Red Sox initial the entire thing and called the Braves, and he said, yes, no question, and the Sox official he talked to told him that. They didn’t try to make themselves look good by lying and saying the Braves called them. They admitted they called the Braves.

That’s all. I’m not “belittling” anybody. But man, you are really, really sensitive on this stuff, aren’t you. Geez.

Dude, believe what you want. If the Globe beat writers’s Boston sources with his team and my sources with this team aren’t enough, then hey, so be it. Believe the guy from SI.com, that the Braves are shopping him. Just trying to differentiate for you the difference between shopping a guy and taking calls from teams interested.

And by the way, why wouldn’t the Braves listen to offers, or, if they knew the White Sox were interested in the past, why wouldn’t they call them now, the last week they can before Andruw becomes a 10/5 guy, just to see what they might get? (and I don’t know that they did call the White Sox, but if they did, I would understand why). As I said, they shouldn’t leave themselves in a situation like the Nats are with Soriano now, where they have little leverage left and the player can make huge demands.

By BravesFan87

August 3, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Rot. Pitching = good. Hitting = horrible.

By Ron Roberts

August 3, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

It’s all I can do not to wanna hop a plane and put my hands around Jeff “First Pitch” Francoeur’s throat, sometimes.

Love the kid, but damn, boy take a FREAKING pitch!

Ok, Hudson… 3 runs in 6 innings off what equates to a AAA team… not exactly “showing improvement” for me.

Here’s one of those games we just flat-out shouldn’t have lost.

sigh

Now it’s onto Cincinatti where they have a major league team. How will we do, there?

By Sammy Kershaw

August 3, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

Todd Pratt is an offensive powerhouse.

Seriously how is this guy still in the big leagues again?

By David O'Brien

August 3, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

mean to write Red Sox “initiated” not “initial”

By Vol

August 3, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

Man our bench is really weak right now!

By Andrew

August 3, 2006 03:13 PM | Link to this

maybe its just me but did cox take a gamble or what leaving Huddy in for the sixth…

By Carolina Lady

August 3, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

OK, NORM. Just hold on a minute! First, get a bib! Second, why are you’re holding journalist jimmy smith, anyway?? They were his hostas, after all! (Shame on you for destroying them!) Third, there is the matter of Trespassing, destroying property, kidnapping, ransom, and conveying threats. Shall I continue??? Do you have any idea what we do to misbehaving Blue Worms in this country?? I know of some bass that would love to meet you! Hartebeest and baby seal should be there any moment now. Awaiting your response.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Nice game pitched by Gibson, Koufax and closed out by Sutter.

What, that’s not who pitched today? Are you sure?

By The GM

August 3, 2006 03:23 PM | Link to this

Pratt couldnt hit his way out of a wet paper sack! Apparently no one on this team can anymore. We get a great bullpen, and decent starting and the hitters cant do anything. We get hitting and the pitchers cant do anything! Trade Andruw!!! PLEASE!!! Just throw in the towel on the season!!! I wish they’d quit making us think they’re gonna turn it around and then play like a bunch of pathetic losers!

By ncscoots

August 3, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

well, at least I had a chance to see Mike Gonzalez in action again, to remind me that he’s a serious hoss.

By NORM

August 3, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

Jeff Torberg calls it agresive. Werms call it undisciplind play. Francour needs some time with MCcan’s daddy. It hurts worse when it costs a chance at winninng. Pratt and orr together couldnot manage an RBI but Orr would be fast.

Demands are not relaxsed - a drop point will be identifide and all the stuff better be their.

We’ll never know if the pitcher can throw strikes when our players always swing at the first pithc.

By geauxbraves2000

August 3, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

I got an idea: The next time a Brave swings at the first pitch and makes an out, everybody in the stadium “boo” and get up and leave.

Could you see the players faces if that actually happened?

Okay, I’m over this loss. Just figured out if the Braves win 2 out of 3 the rest of the way, they should finish with 91 wins, and I think that should be more than enough to take the wildcard.

Geaux Braves!!

By NORM

August 3, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

carollina Lady, blue werms cannot be intimadated. Your jernalis friend will be tied to a hosta tree on US41 close to the big Chicjin after the ransum is deliverd. Drop the ransum at the bus station acrosz the street. Marked NORM WERM -no, make that NORM PRATT. No police or extermenaters.

By alex stuard

August 3, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

GM, Don’t lose hope in the Braves. Everyone is frustrated, but you can’t be dissatisfied with two out of three. granted, the offense hasn’t been as good at all like just after the break. But Bobby is an extraordinary manager, we’ve all seen that, and we can’t forget. We all know what this team is capable of. it’ll click into place.

By jw

August 3, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

Huddy looked a lot better today, let’s hope it continues.

By Carolina Lady

August 3, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Hosta tree??? Ooooookay! Friend of mine by the name of Big Al will deliver the groceries….uh, ransom. Hartebeest will show him the way.

By mariner

August 3, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

What frustrates me, and I’m sure every Braves fan, is why Orr and Pratt haven’t been replaced. I agree that an experienced back-up catcher has a place on a team with a young catcher, but you can’t totally ignore his stats to maintain his presence. At some point, his lack of hitting is does more harm than his presence and experience does good. And Orr’s OPS is now below .500. He is very close to being the worst bench player in the majors, at leasdt in terms of hitting. His versatility to play the infield and outfield positions only has so much value. I understand why we can’t upgrade Hudson or go get a big bat to play left. But, it’s hard to believe we can’t get replacements for these guys who can hit at least .235. I would take .235 at this point. It makes it worse that many of their at-bats come in close and late situations. And it’s frustrating to know that if the Braves manage to make the playoffs, that these guys will be in the lineup. and they will be despite all evidence to the contrary.

By TommyB

August 3, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

New blog up.

By Alex stuard

August 3, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this

Mariner, Hey atleast Pratt is doing better than mirrabelli is for the redsox.

By David

August 4, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

The Braves have made a living getting rid of starters that could still help the ballclub win games. Case in point—Greg Maddox, Tom Glavine, Kevin Millwood, Odallus Perez, etc. The Braves have foolishly let these guys go who still had great stuff and they have continued winning without slowing down at all. By and large, I would have to say that the biggest reason for the Braves collapse this season is the loss of Leo Mazzone as their pitching coach. The Braves club is centered around good pitching and without a great (Hall of Fame) pitching coach such as Leo, who I think was taken for granted, it is no wonder why the Braves have struggled this season and continue to struggle. I think that Shuerholtz was foolish for not locking up Leo financially and giving him precisely what he needed to keep him. Instead, they made Leo an embarrasing low, low ball offer that he most assuredly couldn’t accept, and thus lost him to someone else. I honestly believe that the loss of Leo Mazzone is the main reason why the Braves are so far behind the Mets than any other reason that anyone could come up with. I hope that the Braves Braintrust has learned a valuable lesson—-you get what you pay for and if you continue to undervalue your people, your ballclub will continue to get worse.