Braves

By ncscoots

August 14, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

my god…Barry vs. Bergman…my god…for THIS I got MLB Extra Innings?!?

By hk

August 14, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

…here’s the hitter’s ‘MVP’ through last night, including Betemit’s numbers … (so far with LA,14-49, 6 Runs, 4 HR’s, 8 RBI, .286 avg, .346 obp) …

Year End..Runs..Homers..RBI’s..MVP..Last

Andruw…..99…..42…..143…284…275

Frenchy….89…..32…..116…237…233

LaRoche….85…..33……92…209…212

Chipper….92…..22……86…199…202

Renteria..113…..17……66…195…190

Giles……97…..13……62…172…166

McCann…..59…..22……82…162…155

Betemit….52…..19……53…123…116

Langy……46……9……30….85….85

Team Average ………………182…178

click here for chart

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Hey-you watch the Home Run Derby, right?

By Ted

August 14, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Hope? Yes, I have it, but it is fading. OTOH, I am realistic enough to agree that to have any real chance, Braves need to be at .500 after their next 15 games (12 against last place teams and all 15 are sub-.500) meaning 11-4 or 12-3.

I just wish the Braves would try someone new rather than Barry or Cormier. Lerew has stunk up the minors, but could he honestly do worse than those other two (or Shiell)?

I hate to have to wait for Davies, but throwing two rag arms out there every 5 games means the Braves have little chance. But if he returns and can be decent (and James can avoid HR and Hudson can at least be solid), they have a chance. But that’s a lot of ifs.

But if the Braves aren’t at .500 with 30 games to play, I just can’t see the streak continuing.

By ernesto

August 14, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

DOB - what’s up with the Bravos pitching prospects? Do we have any serious rotation help coming up in the next few years or have we depleted the cream with trades? It seems like the guys we’re bringing up aren’t just in need of seasoning…they need, how to put this gently, a little more potential.

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 04:16 PM | Link to this

The thing to be scared of, in trying to make a run, is that Smoltz will try to pitch til his arm falls off. I think we were lucky he didn’t seriously damage it last year. He sure gives everything he’s got!

By ncscoots

August 14, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this

hey, Rodger, maybe, if forced, but I don’t do so with the expectation that a pitching duel might break out! LOL

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

BTW-great article yesterday!

Bobzilla!Bobzilla!Bobzilla!

With a purposeful grimace and a terrible frown He mows opposing hitters down Bobzilla!

By Vol

August 14, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

And why didn’t we grab Livan Hernandez off waivers? I’m not a big fan, but the guy is a veteran who can churn some innings (and hit, by the way). I’m sure he’d like to start against the Nats in this series.

So hard to believe we have to plug two spots right now. It does make any type of win streak next to impossible. I’d rather try a Lerew just because he’s 50/50 on a pretty good vs. bad start. Seems like Cormier/Berry are going to be no better than mediocre at best for any given start. Might as well chance it at this point.

By dfree

August 14, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, I read that Lerew had a very strong seven inning outing at Richmond the other night, this following some impressive starts at Mississippi, I know the braves need 2 starters, so I understand Cormier, but why not start Lerew over Barry. It seems the scouting reports are out on Barry and he is not fooling any major league team. Lerew is a younger guy who I know some people in organization have a future. Why not give him a chance Thursday? Does it have anything to do with his minor league options and waiting to call him up to Septemeber? (I heard that from another blogger)

By MBATL

August 14, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

DOB, there’s hope, but like you said, time is running out. There is no reason to think the Braves will go 31-15, or whatever it’ll take. We’ll see.

I don’t agree about picking up a starter in the offseason, unless it’s a very good one, and I don’t know how we’d pay for that.

We don’t need another hack like Redman or Ponson - those guys are no better than our rookies on their worst days, but they will cost a lot more. And we’re not gonna pay for Schmidt or Zito unless we trade AJ or Hudson.

Right now, we’re without Davies, Ramirez, and Hampton. Get those guys healthy, and add Smoltz Hudson, and James, and Lerew as a callup if needed, and I’m perfectly comfortable going into ‘07 with what we have.

For now, we need the bats to get superhot like they did in July and create a miracle, which is not likely, but that’s why they play the games, as they say.

By 22oz

August 14, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

i don’t know what to think anymore. They look good winning, then they look terrible losing. Francouer swings at the first pitch and wins the game, then he swings at the first pitch in the braves dugout. If pigs start flying and they win the wild card, what then? Smoltz, Hudson, Chuck?, and then? a first round exit. So whats the point? Pride? Sure, why not. Even if they close shop and start focusing on next year, what exactly would that involve, because it appears that the braves are already holding rotation and bullpen auditions on a weekly basis. So you could say that they are chasing the wild card and rebuilding at the same time. Now everybody’s happy! So i’ll keep watching them and rooting for them and enjoying the first ever spring training/wild card hunt.

By trevor

August 14, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

braves 2006 world series champs

By ncscoots

August 14, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I disagree with you about picking up another starter, but most wholeheartedly agree about Redman/Lidle/Lilly and THAT ilk. Please! Have no idea who might fit from an ability/salary perspective, so I’m certainly not going to propose any trades, but the FA’s available this year? Huh-uh, sorry, no thanks, bye-bye…

By AZBravoFan

August 14, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

You said it DOB, it’s all about pitching, we’re limping along with a rotation that’s 40% AAA. That’s not going to get it done. That means lots of early showers and way more innings out of guys like Villareal, Yates, Paronto than we want to see. I feel so bad for the offense. They’re in the hole almost every night. They have managed to recover from that many nights only to see the middle relief give it right back. Then they’ve even managed to recover from that several times only to see the “closers” give it back again. People rail on Frenchy and Andruw and LaRoche for leaving guys on base in some of those frustrating games, but how many times have they had to win the game once, twice, even 3 times in the same game? Take a look at Villareal’s record and that gives you some idea. It’s gotta be taxing on them mentally. They just can’t be expected to outslug the pitching staff every night. Sometimes you gotta win 2-1 or 1-0 (thank you John Smoltz)

By MBATL

August 14, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

scoots, well, I’m not opposed to picking up a great pitcher whom we can afford. Just don’t know who that might be.

But absent that, I think starting pitching will be a strength next year, not a liability. And half of it will be low-cost.

By ncscoots

August 14, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

MBATL, and I certainly think that Ramirez/Davies/James might be gangbusters, but…I just can’t find it within me to feel confident about it. Guess that’s what a season like this will do to you, get you a little gunshy.

By ncscoots

August 14, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

actually, now that I think about it, ALL the starting pitching will be relatively low-cost, depending on how the Braves “journal” the Hampton number. Smoltz and Hudson (and Hampton, if the books are cooked one way instead of the other) all at $8MM or below, Horam under $3MM, and Davies/James at second-year mins.

By Napolean Dynamite

August 14, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

Heck No I don’t believe! GAWSH!!

By MBATL

August 14, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

Good point, scoots. Technically, we won’t have a starter making over $8 mil next year.

Seems to me that the Braves have 2 options: trade AJ and buy pitching, or keep AJ and develop pitching.

I can live with either option, but we have to understand that those are the choices… am I wrong?

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 05:01 PM | Link to this

I personally am not getting all giddy waiting for Davies to come back, he impressed me his first couple of ML starts, but hasn’t since. With a pretty much guaranteed loss every 5th day, it’s gonna be tough for this team to catch the WC leader, whoever it happens to be at the time. But like I said in another blog, until the Braves are officially eliminated, I’m not giving up hope.

Geaux Braves!!

By JM

August 14, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately, I just don’t feel this team is capable of a winning streak of longer than about three games with this current rotation. We almost have to win everytime Smoltz, Hudson and James start the rest of the season, because in Cormier and Barry, you have two guys who are completely overmatched. Anytime they take the ball against a pitcher of any kind of quality, you just about have to assume it’s an automatic loss.

Davies coming back to take the place of either Cormier or Barry for the final stretch run could help, but there’s really no reason to place any confidence in Davies, either. This is a guy with a 6.12 ERA before going on the disabled list.

To sum it up, we’re going to have to channel some 1914-type magic for these final seven weeks if we want to be playing in October. It’s just such an uphill climb with this rotation.

By Jack Bauer

August 14, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

Copy that. Davies and James are the same, They can probably give you 5 or 6 innings, but they’ll also give up around 5 or 6 runs.

By Andy

August 14, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

Smotlz, Hampton, Hudson, ?, Davies. Seems to me better off with HoRam. Also what about Lerew—did he make people mad at spring training or something…are they afarid of scaring him like devine or something?

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

guess that’s better than 5-6 runs in 3-4 innings, eh Jack?

By Voice of Reason

August 14, 2006 05:11 PM | Link to this

I absolutely love my Braves. I also am the eternal optimist, as is evidenced by my many posts on the Braves/Man in Black blog. I am, however, realistic. The Braves playoff hopes faded with the dismal showings against Cincy and Philly. With only 3 real major league starters on the staff, the hope is past. Blasphemy? Naw, just keepin’ it real.

By Jack Bauer

August 14, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

Roger that Rodger, No more Schiell, No more Schiell, No more Schiell…

By David O'Brien

August 14, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Villarreal (as ASBravesfan did), guess who might be starting instead of Barry on Thursday?

None other than Oscar Vulturreal. Yes, Bobby said he’s going to decide by end of game tonight, probably. But sounds like he’s leaning toward Villarreal. Which says all you need to know about the impression Barry left.

Also, someone asked about Lerew. Despite his outstanding start Sunday, Cox’s response when I asked him about Lerew made it clear he wasn’t even considered for Thursday. Besides, he’d only be going on three days’ rest. But beyond that, it just was clear from Bobby’s “It’s not going to be him” and the tone with which he said it, that Lerew’s still got some proving to do before they’re going to bring him up. Now, maybe that changes with one more fine start at Triple-A. But I wouldn’t bet on it. Might take at least 2-3 more.

Chipper’s feeling good, for those wondering. Did some exercises today with one of those big rubber balls, core-strengthening stuff. Said the oblique was good.

On an unrelated note, I’m bummed that Foo Fighters are playing an acoustic show tomorrow night real close to RFK. No way I can get there in time after a night and writing game story, etc.

By Jack Bauer

August 14, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Stick a fork in them, they’re done. Meaningless NFL preseason games are more exciting.

By Butthead

August 14, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this

huh huh huh..you said big rubber balls huh huh

By Jack Bauer

August 14, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

No foo fighters huh DOB? Good time to buy you a Tim McGraw cd and listen to some real music.

By MEB

August 14, 2006 05:33 PM | Link to this

At least the Vulture has shown an ability to get out major league hitters. Lets say he can get us to the 5th or 6th inning then what?

By Spam

August 14, 2006 05:36 PM | Link to this

Oooo Ooooo, i know this one…one he reaches the sixth inning, then he either A contiues to pitch, or B, the manager brings in someone from the bullpen. Am I right?? What did i win??

By DonCoburleone

August 14, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

Sorry DOB, I said my peace about the Braves season being over a couple weeks ago. So no, there is no way, no way in hell, the Braves will make the playoffs this year. All the other bloggers can see it, every 4th and 5th game there’s at best a 25% chance of winning. Not to mention the fact that we are considering Chuck James and Tim Hudson as solid, dependable starters. I certainly haven’t see that on a consistent basis from either one of those two…

Then there’s John Smoltz, damn, what a great pitcher and competitor that guy is. I loved his last game too, pitched a full 9 innings, 1 run ball. But the part I liked most was his at-bat in the 8th inning (think it was the 8th). He went down 1-2, then worked the count, fouled some balls off, and eventually drew a walk. It was like he was showing the everyday hitters who can’t draw a walk or work a count that it isn’t that difficult. He went up their and said, “See, it’s not hard to find a way to get on base.” What a gamer he is, it’s going to be a shame and a real loss for baseball fans to not see him in the playoffs this year…

By MGL

August 14, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

I like the idea of starting the vulture. He pitched 4.1 scoreless innings at TB when JS left in the second with a groin strain. Barry just looked scared to death Saturday. Uncomfortable after just about every pitch.

Also, Yates looked uncomfortable on Sunday. Seemed like he was afraid to throw every pitch, and avoided the strike zone like the plague. I counted six straight pitches a foot outside the plate and less than six inches off the dirt. If he had been pitching to Jeff Franceour, he would have been fine.

We need more bullpen pitchers that have the confidence to go out there and challenge the batters and not be afraid to get near the strike zone. They need to remember that they have some of the game’s best defenders behind them. Wickman is fantastic in that regard. I loved the way that after the double he gave up off the 3rd base bag Sunday, he turned back toward the plate took a chaw or too and went back to work unfazed. Baez shows a high level of confidence also, and even though he can be streaky, he’s not afraid to throw the ball.

Paronto shows some of the same grit, and he has pitched with Wickman before. Hopefully Big Bob can keep developing him mentally. There’s not a doubt in my mind that if Bobby had put Paronto in instead of Yates, Huddy would have picked up the win.

There should be a rule on late relievers, 1 free pas by BB, HBP, etc. and your done for the night.

By tyyosh

August 14, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

I actually like the idea of a few “bullpen” days with Villareal up first - with Barry and whoever else we are pretty much guaranteed to be no better than 6-4 every 10 games. Seems like the Nats did this once or more vs. the Braves in recent years and were reasonably competitive in those games. Get a couple of guys to try and go 3 innings each (maybe one goes 4), and see what happens. Gotta try something, anything else.

By DonCoburleone

August 14, 2006 05:52 PM | Link to this

I’ll take Villareal starting over Barry 999,999,999,999,999 times out of 1,000,000,000,000,000. Get my drift? (and for all you math majors, thats 999 TRILLION out of 1 Gazillion, eh, does gazillion come after a trillion?)

By Wilson Betemit

August 14, 2006 05:54 PM | Link to this

I would like to thank John Schuerholz and the entire Braves organization for finally allowing me to play for a contender—the “Dodgers!”…

By Wilson Bait-a-meat

August 14, 2006 05:58 PM | Link to this

Yea!,,I’m RICH!,, Beeeee Yatchhhhhh!!!!!!!

By MGL

August 14, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

Don C, I agree. What you have enumerated is 999 Quadrillion times out of a Quintillion. That’s ine with me!!

By MGL

August 14, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

Willy B, If it’s so great in LA, why have you been riding the pine in 2 of the last five games? Is is that .244 AVG in August?

By Braves20

August 14, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

Yo Wilson, you played for a contender for several years and lollygagged around until you woke up and realized you were out of options. Stay with the Bums the rest of your career and see who gets into more post seasons, your or the guy wearing a Braves uni. And try learning the other half of the game - it’s called defense. Just another Graffanino. Oh and Don C. - thanks for a being a realist. We both love the team but both know you can’t make it to post season with 2 1/2 starters. But like you, I like our chances for ‘07 with some minor adjustments.

By Jman

August 14, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

DOB: Any chance that the Braves are trying or will try to acquire a starter through waivers in the next week or so?

By AJK

August 14, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

Nope, I don’t still believe. This season ended in that horrible June. If the Braves could have even 10 of their June games instead of 6, they’d still be alive. But as it is, there are just too many teams to pass, to much ground to make up.

I agree with DOB that we need to add another starting pitcher in the offseason. The good news is that we will without having to dip into the free agent pool. We’ll get Hampton back, and he’ll be good, Maybe even better than good. That means we’ll have 6 straters to choose form - Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, H. Ramirez, K. Davies and Chuck James. That’s pretty solid, especially is Hudson can keep pitching like he has the past two outings. The real need is going to be fixing the bullpen. I absolutely agree that Wick should return, and if the Braves can grab Lidge from Houston (they reportedly want to trade him) I think he might rediscover his form in Atl - definitely worth a gamble.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

This is the most frustrating team I have ever seen. Just when you think it is truly over (Saturday) they come up big and keep themselves in it (Sunday). I just can’t see this team getting into the playoffs but like someone said on the other blog, you can never count out a Bobby Cox team. It is a 162 game schedule and no manager is better at getting the maximum out of his team over the coarse of the ENTIRE schedule.

Now, I can’t figure out why JS hasn’t gone after a Mark Redman or Tony Armas. In the case of Redman, I understand Moore knows the system but he couldn’t be asking for too much considering Redman will be gone in six weeks and is unlikely to resign with the Royals. Redman isn’t great but he is better than Cormier, Barry, or Lerew. Armas is definitely better than those options. Part of that 6 mil the team had left over still exists and would be wisely spent on another starter. I just don’t get it. Don’t tell me you still believe you can get into the playoffs but don’t make the sensible moves that will get you there.

Even if Davies comes back and is on fire, we still need another starter. I can’t believe JS and Cox would rather run out a AAA “starter” than a guy like Redman or Armas who have proven success, albeit limited, in the majors. Doesn’t make sense. Why are they holding onto that money? JS got a little “somethin somethin” on the side that he has to keep “satisfied” or what. I mean you have the money. Spend it for the love of God! If they honestly think they can get into the playoffs with the likes of Barry and Cormier pitching 2 out of evrey 5 games for the rest of the year, then I think some on this blog are correct and they are getting senile. I understand not wanting to get rid of quality prospects but give them some mid level IF prospects. We are loaded in that area and both the Nats and Royals need help in that area.

By paluka

August 14, 2006 06:20 PM | Link to this

This winter, I suggeset the Braves send either Scott Thorman or Adam LaRoach to SF for Noah Lowery. Any thoughts?

By Lew

August 14, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this

AJK-I pretty much agree with you, but I’d like to see at least a number 3 starter brought in. MBATL-I agree with you, too about pitching, but I think we could do it and still keep Andruw. It would depend on whether you wanted to rsign Baez AND Wickman, or just Wickman and hope Boyer and Foster come back. There will be enough left from dumping the dead wood like Thomson (although before that injury, he was quite dependable), Sosa Reitsma, et al. to get either Baez OR Wickman (I’d rather have Wicky). I think Giles would have to be traded to free up salary to add another starter. Unless, of course, you could trade him straight up for someone to fill the tthree spot in the rotation.

By David

August 14, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

Do you believe in life after love I can feel something inside me say I really don’t think you’re strong enough, No

By TommyB

August 14, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this

KC: OK. I’ll check ‘em out again. What do you recommend? Just checked iTunes and I have: Ghost Train, Saving the Best for Last, Silver Thunderbird, True Companion, Strangers in a Car… (and WIMx3).

Head Coach: Mr. Blanco does look enticing, doesn’t he? (Batting .295 and OBP of .400…. Baseball America-Named “Best Defensive Outfielder”)

[reposted from last blog… yeah, I’m a little slow on the uptake… haven’t read a word of this one yet and I’m off for a quick bite before gametime]

By kevin

August 14, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

A few comments: 1) DOB, you are missing out if you can’t make it to watch the Foo Fighters playing ACOUSTIC!!! 2)Braves DO need a starter—someone like Zito. 3)I don’t know why Kevin Barry and Lance Cormier are starting games (besides the obvious). 4)The Villareal possibly starting wouldn’t be as bad as Barry and Cormier…at least we’re looking at 1-2 run deficit when the boys come up to bat, not a 3-4 run deficit.

Who are the notable free-agent pitchers available this off-season?

By journalist jimmy smith

August 14, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

as dob says, “if you haven’t done journalism you probably don’t understand journalism.” well, dob says something like that. to help jimmy smith’s many friends on the blog understand journalism, journalist jimmy smith is going to teach some valuable journalism lessons. first lesson is on attribution.

it is important that a journalist let the reader know where information comes from. that way, you the reader can judge for yourself the veracity of the information. dob is a master at attribution, “bobbycox said this”, “wickman said this”, “chipper said, uh, this”. still, there is another kind of attribution - often readers of fine journalism will read something in a news article and confuse the source - maybe even confuse the facts. for instance, someone might say. “i read in the dob blog that bobbydews cuts bobbycox’s toenails.” it could easily be inferred by bobbycox that the toenail cutting revelation was the product of dob’s journalism for it is dob’s blog and dob has clubhouse access where the toenail clippers are kept. this could preclude dob from getting a future scoop from bobbycox. this could mean that bobbycox will remain distant and wary of such a journalist. intimate surroundings call for ultimate discretion. dob is a master of attribution (and a contender for the wurlitzer when awarded) but readers of dob’s journalism are not masters of attribution. a well intentioned reader who attributes information to the wrong jounalist might spill the coffee beans so to speak. “bobbycox it is good to meet you - i understand from the dob blog that bobbydews cuts your toenails.” oh, the humanity if this should ever happen and the wrong writer incurs the wrath of the team’s manager! there, journalist has explained in a calm and reasoned tone the concerns expressed earlier by our leader. journalist is happy to provide this service. selah.

By Cletus Snow

August 14, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

Maybe we could trade the Braves back to Milwaukee for a couple of kegs of their finest.Or maybe we could trade them to to Amarillo tx. for some of their fine Bovine Excretement. I might feel different if they weren’t overpaid to the point that most of us cant afford a night at the ted for a family of 4,which is usually 15 to 200 bucks. YES I STILL BELIEVE THEY AREN”T WORTH THE BUCKS.

By triharder

August 14, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this

WHAT ARE YOU GUYS TALKING ABOUT??? Of course we are going to make the playoffs. Have you seen the way Maddux and Furcal and Betemit are playing in the second half? These guys are tearing it up. We are going to kick the … oh, wait, what’s that? OHHHHH, sorry - someone just pointed out that I am looking at a Dodgers box score. My bad. So, anyword on the ostrich races, Chief Nokahoma, something!?

By Braves20

August 14, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this

Moron - a mentally deficient person; a very foolish or stupid person - Webster’s New World Dictionary

By Head Coach

August 14, 2006 07:01 PM | Link to this

I hope you are kidding , right ? David please stop baiting the uninformed bandwagon fans , its cruel. Not only will this team miss the playoffs , they will finish below .500 for the first time since 1990. The starting pitching for 2007 will be just fine as it is , assuming they are all healthy and contributing. I am predicting a 2-2 split with the Nationals and I’m not sure who will be starting against the Marlins but their pitching is better than ours at the moment. Bobby , Schuerholz call up the kids and start evaluating this team for 2007. Thats the smartest thing you two can do for this team right now.

By TommyB

August 14, 2006 07:02 PM | Link to this

As usual, Superb Article, Dave OB. Me? No. Not since the Mets were in town.

Oh yeah, there are embers and sparks, but I wouldn’t admit (to myself) of fanning them. Heck, if we made it to the playoffs, what could happen?

Exactly.

It would take several miracles to happen, one of which would be another offensive explosion like July’s.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 07:02 PM | Link to this

If the payroll allowed, I don’t find fault with getting another starter. It allows them to trade Ramirez and to put Chuck James in the bullpen and get some more seasoning. Kind of like what the Cards are doing with Wainwright. Or do it with Davies. Whomever they think needs it more.

I think Diaz should get an audtion at the leadoff spot and LF. If he can show he can do the job, then we don’t have to get a leadoff hitter through trade or free agency and can use that money on pitching and some true depth on the bench.

Now, I have read a lot of discussion about Hampton. I admit I am cautious about him. But, he is using the full recommended 18 months to recover which is something most guys don’t do, including Smoltz and look at him. Yes, Hampton struggled before he went on the DL but he was injured so you have to give him somewhat of a pass. And don’t forget before he went back on the DL last year he was pitching very well. The fact is he would be ready to pitch by the end of this month but because the insurance is paying his salary this year and the policy requires that in order for them to pay it he can’t pitch, the Braves are not allowing him to pitch this year. At this point I would almost say they may have to rethink that idea.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

Well, to all those who keep referring to “Braves West” and the such, please be forewarned. If the Dodgers resign Lugo, Betemit will be the odd man out and doing the same thing in L.A. that he was doing here. Maddux looks good right now, but he also looked good in April for the Cubs and you all saw what happened in May, June, and July. I do, however, think the Dodgers will win the west and if they do I will be pulling for them to beat the crap out of the Mets.

By Braves20

August 14, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

Robert (JITB) - A capital idea. If Hampton can go and we are close - why not. I saw him throwing in the pen down in the Trop over a month ago at about 75% - looked good.

By MBATL

August 14, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

Robert, “if payroll allows”, I agree… go out and get more pitching. Anything I suggest is based on the general idea that we have to stay within budget. And I certainly think relief pitching, left field, leadoff, are a bigger issue than starting pitching. For next year, that is.

I can’t believe you’d suggest we pitch Hampton this year, and eat $ millions in salary on the long shot that it would make a difference, plus risk his longterm recovery. To my knowledge, he hasn’t even pitched in simulated games, much less any kind of minor league assignments.

And I don’t know about trading Ramirez; seems like the same kind of move people are complaining about now with Schmidt, Wainright, etc … dumping good young pitching for the short term gain.

I wouldn’t make ANY moves that jeapordize the future for this year’s playoff run; the odds are just too long.

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

The offense better wake their butts up and put some runs on the board if they want to start this road trip off of the right note.

Geaux Braves!!

By TommyB

August 14, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this

HK: As usual, Nice Charting. You must do this as part of your job, eh?

Trevor, Dude… What can I say, but… WOW. That’s some SERIOUS Positive Thinking. I mean Norman Vincent Peale could learn a thing or three.

MBATL, I did not mean to say earlier that I thought Redman would be a good move. My intent was that, looking at the crop of FA pitchers, he “fits the profile.” IOW, he’s “iffy and cheap” (probably cheap). He’s a “project” and that’s usually what JS goes after, given the budget constraints.

By DonCoburleone

August 14, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this

DOB in answering your question, I am watching “just in case.” I am definately interested when Smoltz or James is pitching. Smoltz because he is a bada$$, and James because I want to see (or at least try and see) if he is progressing and getting better. Hudson is just painful to watch, even his last 2 outings seem to be smokescreens for his new, true self. And Barry/Shiell/Cormier/Villareal are just root canal-ish. Absolute nightmares on the mound. I do enjoy watching AJ, McCann, Renteria, and Francoeur as much as possible though. Francoeur is just flat out entertaining… I lost count earlier in the year of the number of times he has hit a ball and immediately looked up thinking it was popped up or fouled back; only to find out that the ball was hit in fair territory somewhere and he takes off towards first. He just seems like a big dumb animal to me (like a football player). He plays hard and reacts on pure instinct, plus he’ll play everyday you put him in the lineup. I bet 10 years from now people will be asking if Jeff Francoeur is going to break Cal Ripken’s consecutive games played streak (should be at about 1,800 or so by then).

By Miss Manners

August 14, 2006 07:32 PM | Link to this

Braves20 - a blogger with little to offer; probably a bed wetter - Webster’s New World Dictionary

By beachcomber

August 14, 2006 07:44 PM | Link to this

Who was the wise man who sggested Diaz in the lead-off spot. Why not? The guy is on fire! Hey what’s up with all the personal attacks? Throttle back guys (and lady). Save that for the Muts fans. By the way, this just in Phils 6 Muts and Martinez zip.

By DonCoburleone

August 14, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

I’m watching just in case something good happens, not just in case the Braves get hot and make the playoffs, cuz that will not happen…

By Carolina Lady

August 14, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

Howdy, beachcomber! The ‘Miss Manners’ post is not this lady! I don’t attack folks. Get weary with a couple of ‘em now and then, but no attacks. Just to clary the point. :-))

By DonCoburleone

August 14, 2006 08:00 PM | Link to this

Is anyone on this blog opposed to trading Andruw Jones in the offseason and bringing in some good young pitching? Lets just say, for the sake of argument, that the Braves won’t be able to re-sign him after next year, would you make the deal? Would you be happy with AJ gone and 2 or 3 major-league ready prospects in return? How would a lineup next year of 1)Aybar 2)Giles 3)Renteria 4)Chipper 5)McCann 6)Francoeur 7)LaRoche 8) Diaz, Thorman, Johnson and then the pitcher sound? I don’t think that lineup sounds bad, and if we actually had a starter every 5 days with the potential to throw a quality start it would make up for the 130 RBI’s AJ produces. Thoughts???

By Mike Douglas

August 14, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

The Mets will not make it to the world series. But the Dodgers will.

I can see it clearly.

Anyone want a stock tip?

By beachcomber

August 14, 2006 08:02 PM | Link to this

Back at ya, Carolina LADY. You’ve always seemed like a lady in capital letters! Go Braves!

By eddy

August 14, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

man the braves are so out of it, i dont think they will win a playoff pennant in at least another 5 years if that. The main reason there losing is because of chipper jones, if they trade him they would do so much better than they are right now.

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this

There is no one who can replace Andruw. Not a prospect, not 10 prospects. Andruw is the best CF in the game, a solid bat that drives in 100+ runs/year. It would be in the Braves’ best interest to get a deal done. Even if they don’t, AJ must stay through 2007. I would hate to see this team without him in the field/lineup. It definitely would make you long for the Braves of the late 80s. IMHO.

By MBATL

August 14, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this

DonC, don’t think the lineup would look quite like that, but no, no problem if we trade AJ. It might be the best thing if we don’t think we can afford him longterm.

By Cramer

August 14, 2006 08:10 PM | Link to this

Here’s a tip:

Ticker symbol BRAVES. Bad fundamentals (particular in pitching). Peaked last year, now in a downtrend. The chart looks terrible. SELL! SELL! SELL!

I don’t see this stock doing anything for a while. The biggest problem is that management needs to invest more money to get more returns.

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t trade him. We have Hampton, Hudson, Smoltz, James, Davies, and Ramirez. All of them major league ready. We have the best centerfielder in the game. Why trade him? If we are going to make a run at it next year, keep him. If he signs elsewhere after next season, we get draft picks and we still have major league ready pitchers.
I think the Braves will resign him. It isn’t out of the range of the pocket book if AJ shows his loyalty like he has in the past and the new ownership doesn’t strip the payroll down to nuts and bolts. I can think of no reason to trade AJ unless he wakes up one day and mouths off so bad and starts throwing games and basically acting like an @ss. That isn’t his style, so I don’t see it happening. Plus, we trade him and all those yahoos show up saying: With Wainwright, Dye, AJ, and Schmidt we’d be in the series. Of those, only on AJ I’d agree. And Kelly Johnson is no make up for Andruw defensively or offensively.

By eddy

August 14, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this

man, aj is one of the most over rated players in the game, the best use you could get out of him is if you do trade him for a prospect.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

I honestly believe that Cox should let Diaz hit leadoff for a few games to see how he does. If he does well we may have found our leadoff hitter and LF. He doesn’t seem to walk much but he usually makes contact which I could live with.

By Vol

August 14, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

Wow, is Diaz red hot or what? Glad Bobby is going with the hot hand.

I am all for the Vulture starting a game. He’s inconsistent, but he’s got a chance of allowing only 1-2 runs through six innings. Not sure I can say the same for Berry/Cormier. All have the ability to stink it up more than you’d like to see.

By Carolina Lady

August 14, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

Andruw stays. Period.

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

Stop pitching to Soriano. It only takes a once for me to learn when I hit my hand with a hammer it hurts.

By Lew

August 14, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

Eddy-That last staement is so utterly moronic, it doesn’t deserve any more response than this.

By eddy

August 14, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

mind ur own buisness caralina lady, i’m a die hard mets fan and journalist jimmy smith likes guys, ok thats waht i think, i just postin all this to at least give us some competition.

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this

what do I need to do to become a manager or general manager in baseball.

By Roger M.

August 14, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

Cramer:

Here is my portfolio of starting pitchers: Smoltz, Hudson, James, Cormier, Barry.

Am I diversified.

By MBATL

August 14, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout something like this:

We send AJ to the NYY for their prime pitching prospect, Hughes. Or, to Boston for Lester and Crisp. We then send Hughes or Lester to TB for Crawford, who is statistically almost AJ’s equal. (different, but equal…)

So, we’ve basically traded AJ for Crawford, but saved about $8 mil a year.

I don’t know that this is likely - if not, take Crawford out of the equation and put in KC’s Holliday, or any other young big-hitting outfielder.

Would you do that kind of deal? Just axing…

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 14, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this

Eddy makes some very good points, welcome Cousin Eddy.

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox must be reading my comments yesterday I was insiting to give Villareal the chance to start and now he is thinking about it.

By Cramer

August 14, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

Roger M:

You are not diversified, my friend. First off - you have too many speculative pitchers. And Hudson peaked a while back and may or not recover.

I would hold on to your Smoltz and James and swap the rest for some defensive names that pay dividends.

By Heath

August 14, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this

the way atl is pitching this year…i would take 2-3 major league-ready prospects…andruw is not the “clutch” player a lot of people think he is….he seems to get most of his numbers when the game is already decided….win or lose

By beachcomber

August 14, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

Come on boys, it’s called situational hitting! And it wins close games.

By beachcomber

August 14, 2006 08:31 PM | Link to this

Then too, so does a Chipper dinger!

By Michael Bloomberg

August 14, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this

All:

I apologize for the Met morons who are starter to bother folks on this blog.

Ever since Giuliani left, the streets of New York are rampant with vile cretins.

I have tried to do my best, but I could not.

By Vol

August 14, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

Chipper simply cannot get hurt the rest of the way.

By Heath

August 14, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

…welcome back chipper..giles, renteria, chipper, francoeur, larocher, mccann….all very GOOD reasons to use andruw for pitching

By CC Rider

August 14, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

The free agent pitcher the Braves will work into the payroll next year has already been setup by adjusting contracts for this year, it just so happens it was another teams reworking the contract of one of their pitchers rather than the Braves. It will not please everyone but it is a very good chance Tom Glavine will be back next year. The Mutts redid Glavine’s contract to save money this season and letting him walk next year. Glavine said in so many words to various friends that he wanted to be close to home and his family ( who still live in Atlanta), the Mutts would owe him $14 Million option. The Braves will work out a bonus or deferred payments to get him back and he will finish his career here with his best friend Smoltzie. Smoltz, Glavine, Hudson, Hampton and Ramirez. James and Davies In reserve. Now we’re talking.

By hk

August 14, 2006 08:40 PM | Link to this

TommyB …

… appreciate that, yes, I’ve been doing that kind of stuff for a long time, not the Braves, business plans …

… saw the other day where you live between Alpharetta, Cumming and Canton, with noplace good to eat for 20 miles … brought to mind ‘Simply Southern’ near the intersection of rts 372 and 20, nothing fancy, but a place I like …

By Braves20

August 14, 2006 08:43 PM | Link to this

Man…does anybody know what Diaz’ batting average with two strikes is? It seems like he just shines with two strikes - or recently with any count!

By Carolina Lady

August 14, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this

Eddy, I wasn’t responding to you. The general question had been asked earlier and I was giving my opinion as has everyone else. Rudeness isn’t my strong suit, but I’m really tired tonight and getting a bit short-tempered. You’ve just shown everyone reading the blog that you aren’t even sharp enough to know who your target is. I don’t have to say anything else; your own actions speak for themselves.

By TommyB

August 14, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this

DonC: No, on your Trade Andrew? Poll. That is unless feelers come back that we can’t resign him.

Dave OB: One word for you — Archibald’s. On K Street.

By Moe

August 14, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

I like the Nat’s strategy of walking LaRoche to get to Diaz. Hilarious.

By el bravo x

August 14, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

Six Rolling Rocks!

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

How was chippers homer, to left, liner, 450 feet.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 08:56 PM | Link to this

Man, I wonder if Cox is already a step ahead of us and told Diaz he was going to play him for a few games against all pitching and this was his chance to show he deserves the job. He is smokin’! It makes you wonder what would have happened if he played everyday all year. I know his defense is lacking but the offense he brings offsets that. Kind of like Frenchy’s defense offsets his offensive struggles. Man, I wish that kid would stop striking out so much. He needs to go to the plate with a plan other than swing at everything and stay calm. You can read his mind when he is at the plate. He has already made up in his mind to swing before the pitch is ever thrown. And, from personal experienc I know once you make that decision its hard to stop from swinging even if you can tell its a bad pitch.

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this

another one wow chipper.

By Heath

August 14, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

eagles are up 13-0 on the giants…no wait that is the phils and mets….normally i would be happy about that score….but shouldn’twe be rooting FOR those muts since they are playing against are WC competitors?!…oh the agony of this year!

By TommyB

August 14, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

HK: DUDE. This is surprising. Am well familiar with that place. Can’t say I’m a fan, though! To each his own. There are good spots to eat within about 12 miles (Windward Parkway). That’s “town” for me. Are you nearby? When we moved here, there was nothing other than horse farms. Now, the Georgia Tech club is right down the road and just up the road is Hawks Ridge (where Smoltzie and Glavine have property and Michael Jordan has a membership). We be risin’ fast (as are property values).

By Sarah Conner

August 14, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

Diaz cannot be bargained with. He has no pity. He cannot be stopped.

By stynes

August 14, 2006 09:23 PM | Link to this

Chipper is playing amazing baseball these last 6 weeks. Better than 99 when he almost single handedly beat the Mets. It’s a real shame he hasn’t been healthy all year and we couldn’t have gotten Wickman earlier.

Chew on this. Since 2001 Wickman has converted over 90% of his save opportunities (132/146). The Braves, before Wickman came over this year were 20/40. Had Wickman been saving games all year (assuming his 90% save percentage) and assuming all of those blown saves were losses (I’m sure not all of them were but hear me out) the Braves would have won 16 more games. That’s right. +16. That would put them 10 games up in the wildcard and only 1 game behind the Mets. Had he known then what he knows now, think JS would have spent that $5mil?

To answer DOB’s question, I still believe the Braves have a chance. 85 wins will give them a great shot at the WC and that’s not yet out of reach for them. Reeling off 7 in a row here as Chipper suggested would pull them to 3-4 back most likely and start putting pressure on some of the teams in front of them.

Also, what were DonCoburleone and geauxbraves2000 smoking? First DonCoburleone suggests that we basically swap AJ for Aybar in the lineup. I’m not sure where in that equation Aybar becomes an outfielder but that’s just silly. When I think it can’t get any sillier, geauxbraves2000 says AJ isn’t worth 10 prospects. As much as I love AJ and want him to stay in Atlanta, JS has to make a decision during this offseason as to whether or not he can resign AJ. If he can’t resign him, you’ve got to ship AJ and get as much as you can for him. Would what we get necessarily replace him? Well no, probably not, but you’ve got to get something if after next year he’s going to walk.

By Cramer

August 14, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

Stynes - failure to spend the $5mil on such a critical part of the business is a huge error in judgment on the part of management.

That is why Braves’ shareholders, er bloggers, are so upset.

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

Besides the Smoltz/Alexander deal, name one deal where the Braves shipped off a veteran for prospects and it has turned out well. Once. AJ for prospects is not a good deal, no matter how many prospects. They are prospects, meaning they may be good, they may not. AJ is already good, there is no one who could replace him.

By Heath

August 14, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

i think chipper feels pretty well, 4-5 with 3hr would suggest that i am right….with him back….the braves have one of if not the best offenst in the nl…if we could just get some consistent pitching….but i digress…

By Lew

August 14, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

I’ve got the Nationals feed tonight and their announcers are doing a Skip Caray impression. It isn’t too bad. You know, if Andruw does walk for free agency, which is certainly not a given, we do get something-An MVP caliber 07 season and $13.5 million from his salary and supplemental picks from whoever signs him. God, Chipper just hit his third. He is the definition of hot. Why hasn’t Diaz had more of a shot this year?

By Jeremy

August 14, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s unbelieveable 2night! Hell yes DOB, I do believe!

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this

3 home runs

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

Diaz is great. TB and the Royals didn’t want him. We spend 15 bucks on contact lens’s and he’s hitting all over the place.

Chipper is amazing. I love that guy. And I still say no way at all on trading AJ. But if, if, we were going to have to trade him, I’d only be happy with Liriano and Kazmir in return. Particularly Kazmir just to stick it to the Mets. Won’t happen, but as long as we’re wishing…

It’s Chuck James B!tch! This kid is good. And no long balls tonight. Seems he’s trying to fullfill Chippers demand. I like it! I’ll toss down another one for him! Once it touches your lips, it’s so good! Woooooo!

By Lew

August 14, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

In Chipper’s last 130 games, he is hitting over .325 with 30 HR and 102 RBI.

By Sarah Conner

August 14, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

Chipper cannot be bargained with. He has no pity. He cannot be stopped.

By stynes

August 14, 2006 09:36 PM | Link to this

I didn’t say the Braves have always made good deals trading vets for prospects. To be honest, since the Smoltz for Alexander deal they haven’t done it much. Because they’ve had a competitive budget they’ve felt they had a chance to resign their vets. I’d pose this question to you: What deals have the Braves made trading a vet for prospects that have gone poorly? Also, would the Braves be better off had they traded Maddux or Glavine before/during their final year and gotten some big league ready prospects in return?

And btw, did I say Chipper was hot? He’s sizzling. 4/5, 3 hrs , and 5 rbis so far tonight. .339 for the year. Not bad for an old man with bad toes. The toes are crucial, I hear.

By Adam

August 14, 2006 09:41 PM | Link to this

Can we wrap Chipper in bubble wrap when he’s not playing…he is such a difference maker when healthy and there just aren’t many of those in baseball.

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

DOB-I hope you aren’t letting Cher lyrics slide after you got P-o’d over my reference to a certain P-singer?/dancer?/addict?

By Robert Plant

August 14, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

Ten-Paul,

Kashmir - not Kazmir

And I never sang, Kamir in return - it goes like this instead:

My Shangri-La beneath the summer moon, I will return again sure as the dust that blows high in June when movin’ through Kashmir

By el bravo x

August 14, 2006 09:52 PM | Link to this

If it’s going to take 9 beers a game to win the next 7 games, I am game! and buzzing…

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

Congrats Diaz, WTG!! You are now officially in the record books.

Nice game Braves. Let’s take this home Franklin, throw strikes, hang a “W”.

By Robert Plant

August 14, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this

Actually, I am the best “P” singer.

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

Holy Sh!t! Did anyone see that Mets game?!?! Big Pedro Martinez lasted an inning and gave up 6! That’s, well that’s very similar to what we’ve done this year. Very Hudson of him. 13 to nothing blow out. Drink her in, she always goes down smooth.

By Heath

August 14, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

i know it is a BIG if, but just consider a partial batting order (in no particular order) of giles(who is heating up), renteria (very consistent in the nl) chipper (after tonight nothing else needs to be said) francouer (still a BIG upside) mccann (probably not a .350 guy, maybe .280ish after this year) and laroche (still puts up good numbers when you look at him at the end of the year)….those guys can rake!….i say trade aj in the off-season (assuming he doesn’t veto the deal now that he is a 10-5 guy) for a starting pitcher and a lead-off/left fielder….i love andruw…but you here more and more about his shoulders and back (from all those diving catches)…defensively, he has peaked!….and most likely on his way down now. he is going to be 30 next year….which normally is not that old….but andruw has been hitting the ground and the wall for over ten years now!!!…i see griffey all over again when i look at andruw (defensively/injury-plagued). the mariners were smart enough to move past the griffey era when the time was right (along with arod and randy johnson) and soon after put together one of the finest regular season’s in history. i think the braves would be wise to follow a similar path by trading andruw for young, up and coming talent. they could not do without him last year..this year…he is less important…and next year….will be even less important…especially if we got a pitcher that tosses near shut-out ball every 5 days.

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000: I’m watching on GameDay, besides being incredible, what did Diaz do to get in the books?

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

As Austin Powers puts it, “Yeah baby”. WTG James/Paronto/Franklin (one miscue, no problem) and offense!!

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

Awesome!

Now which AAA guy are we gonna count on for some momentum?

By geauxbraves2000

August 14, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this

10 consecutive base hits.

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this

Alright! GO BRAVES!! Another quality start from James. 7 innings 2 earned. Not too shabby!

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this

Dave O’ Brien do you work for Espn.

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 10:04 PM | Link to this

Say Robert-

Good to have you aboard!

How bout a little veteran “Presence” on the mound. If we can win some, it could be “What is, and what should never be”.

By TommyB

August 14, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

10Paul: Diaz broke the Braves record for consistent hits (10) and tied the NL record.

Night all…

By Robert Plant

August 14, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

If we keep hitting like this, we shall show the Mets No Quarter.

By dadgum

August 14, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

miss rudolph, miss rudolph can you tell me what happened to the tarantula? No- but if you don’t bring me that starting pitcher you will see him again.

evryone now hands high above the head, inhale exhale and repeat 5 times. I still love Mrs. Cleaver and her thinking Eddie Haskell is a real nice boy. Wonder what she would think of Maurice Clarett!

DOB you are cool dude! NOt playing the yes man here just you are cool. My My Hey Hey Rock and Roll is Here to stay…….

By Thomas

August 14, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

Dave O’ Brien are you broadcaster in Espn.

By English Teacher

August 14, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

Dadgum - did you say that DOB is a YES man? I didn’t know he was so Close to the Edge.

By Glass Half Full

August 14, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

Tied with the Marlins and now 5 teams ahead of us (3 of those teams are all tied at 3.5 games back).

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 10:15 PM | Link to this

No teach-Bono is close to the edge!

By Glass Half Full

August 14, 2006 10:20 PM | Link to this

Intersting new uniforms for the Vikings on ESPN…perfect for a leisurely boat ride with a few friends.

By ssiscribe

August 14, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I’d say Chipper’s oblique looks fine to me. First three-dinger night of his career. Looked good, indeed.

OK, back to packing.

By Tonight on TBS

August 14, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

Special presentation:

Oldboy (2003)

An average ballplayer, Curtis Pride, is trapped in the minor leagues, on shabby teams, for 15 years without explanation. One day he is inexplicably brought up to the Angels, equipped with a nice uniform, plenty of bats, and per diem. As he strives to understand his imprisonment he soon finds out that “management” has even worse plans for him: a trade to the Nippon Ham Fighters. (Parental guidance: extremely violent line drives). Captioned for the hard of hearing.

By O'Sullivan Beare

August 14, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

Hmm…Trade Andruw because you think he might start getting hurt. Trade Andruw just as he’s hitting his offensive stride. Trade Andruw b/c he’s still the best centerfielder in baseball. Trade Andruw b/c he has one year left on his contract. Trade Andruw for a starting pitcher b/c we have Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, Davies, James, and Ramirez coming back next year. I’m just not into that idea. We need a leadoff man indeed, but certainly an equally enticing deal can be made without throwing Andruw into the mix.

Besides, I don’t think that Seattle moved past the Griffey era so much as Cincinatti offered him a whole bunch of money.

By Glass Half Full

August 14, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

Though I’ll tune in because I can watch any and every football game, it won’t be Monday Night Football on ESPN. It will be football on Monday night.

By flbravesgirl

August 14, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

I guess Chipper’s side is OK. :-) Diaz is certainly making a case to start more often. Good game all around, plenty of offense and a nice job by Chuck James.

Heath, what makes you think McCann will only hit “.280ish” after this year? He’s not streaky and appears to have very good hitting fundamentals. If he stays healthy, I don’t see why he couldn’t be a .300 hitter for many years.

By Andy

August 14, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

If pedro can go down for a little while—the phillies and braves could smell blood. Never give up till its over—-it is bascially over. But until then…beat the mets.

By Rodger

August 14, 2006 10:49 PM | Link to this

Andy, before two dismal “must have” weekends, I might have agreed. But just the wild card now will be an uphill battle. Still, “Don’t stop believin…”

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

So, do all the Chipper haters still think he should be traded? Lets be honest is Betemit better healthy then Chipper is healthy. Not even close. And I know that Chipper has been hurt a lot it seems, but the truth is they have been freak injuries. The oblique injury is the same one Puljos had and the injury early in the year was nothing more than caused by that trecherous turf in San Fran. Despite what some want to believe this team goes as Chipper goes. He is exactly what he is supposed to be and that is the glue that holds this team together. I think its no coincidence this team won back to back games once while Chipper was on the DL and have already done it in his first two games back. Chipper has pride and is making sure that everyone else in that clubhouse has it as well.

Chuck James had another good outing. Except for that fiasco against the Mets and the so-so outing against the Padres James has been quite good. That is what makes the inability or refusal to go out and get another starter so frustrating to me. If we had a guy like Redman or Armas, this team wouldn’t be in that bad of a position. But, now that we have not just one but two AAA call ups of the week going out on the mound that just doesn’t bode well. Lets hope that Cormier has gained some confidence from his good work at Richmond and it will translate to some success up with the big club.

By hk

August 14, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this

TommyB, am in Alpharetta, have been meeting a client that lives in Big Canoe there for the last 10 years or so for bkfst/lunch mtgs…

By hk

August 14, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this

TommyB, I live in Alpharetta, have been meeting a client that lives in Big Canoe there for bkfst/lunch mtgs for the last 10 years or so…

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 14, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Oh Robert(justiceisbestorwhatevertheshit) you sure said a mouthful there, “Chipper has been hurt alot it seems, but the truth is they have been freak injuries.” Oh they been freak alright, that “freak”(Chipper) gets hurt everytime he moves! Y’all might need to duct tape his old asz, get a few more games out of him. Meantime, Betemit continues tearing it up for the Dodgers!…Nice move Schuerholz!!!…GO NATS!!!……by the way, what’s with Boogie Cox keeping players in the games with known injuries?…first Reeksma, now Crowbar, I mean Aybar?…

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 11:15 PM | Link to this

First of all, SouthernJackAss, put down the bottle and quit living up to your name. If you hate Chipper, thats fine. I could care less. But, give the man his rightful due. And I would not exactly characterize Betemit as “tearing it up” in LA. He has done well but its not like he is the reason they are winning. I think Furcal, Lugo, and the great pitching is the reason for that. I love Betemit and wasn’t exactly happy about the trade, but I have enough sense to know that Betemit is a good player but at no time ever carried this team like Chipper was doing when Betemit got traded. Not to mention as soon as Betemit would have went into a 2 for 22 slump, peoople like you would have been clammoring for him to be traded. Pull your head out of your SoutherJack a*s and realize the Dodgers would be winning with or without Betemit and if they decide to sign Lugo in the offseason he will find himself on the bench just like he was here.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 14, 2006 11:20 PM | Link to this

I see where Pedro is hurt again. And people say Chipper is injury prone.

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 11:20 PM | Link to this

I don’t think it’s over by any means. I hope the Braves make it into the post season and tear it up. But, if the sky should fall, I think it would be poetic justice if the Marlins take the Wild Card and step over the Mets to win the Series. I’d just have to laugh.

My charts are showing some good signs. They have for a while now and it appears to becoming true. I tinker and tinker with the equations, and it’s getting better and better. Braves need to hold this momentum and build on it. I think Cormier will be able to do well. I’m not sure about Barry. If either or both of those guys can keep the Braves in the game through 5, then we have a chance to win. Especially if Chipper keeps up his super human capabilities.

Oh and, WAY TO GO DI-AZ!!

Thanks for the update. I didn’t realize he had two hits the other day, I thought he was just 8 for 8. But 10 for 10! Sheeesh.

By TennesseePaul

August 14, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Man that was a peacefull few months. Helluva run we had. Now the nursery door is open again.

By Andy

August 15, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this

So lerew must have done something to make cox think he is another devine—no chance this year until setember. What is the deal with renteria—is he hurt. His swing just seems wrong—esp. if you look at his earlier at bats. He has been awesome—not bashing him by any means. Its just something is off. Don’t know. Does not look like the same hitter—maybe he’s tired. Like the rest of them. ONE GAME AT A TIME!!!! You never know. If we lose the next three then we know—till then go braves. Oh yeah so sorry to see you back SJA.

By Andy

August 15, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah tennesse paul do you live on the west coast?

By Head Coach

August 15, 2006 12:39 AM | Link to this

O no , not again ! They win big and the bandwagon goes bonkers over it. You guys are hilarious and very entertaining !

By TheSouthernJackAss

August 15, 2006 12:53 AM | Link to this

Hell boys!…I could care less about that hayseed Chipper Jones one way or another…I just enjoy twangin’ y’alls’ banjo strings!…Hell! Y’all still believin’ in y’alls’ Braves?…Shyt, it’s still early in the season, plenty o’ time to right the ship!…Ah Ha Ha Ha Ha Haaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!……….GO CARDS!!!…

By Matt and Trey

August 15, 2006 01:13 AM | Link to this

Hey, we know that you guys like to list potential lineups over and over again. So, here’s ours:

1-Stan Marsh, 2-Butters Stotch, 3-Eric Cartman, 4-Chef, 5-Randy Marsh, 6-Kyle Broflovski, 7-Mr. Mackey, and Kenny McCormick in the 8 hole.

P-we would go with Timmy.

Closer: Mr. Hankey. Dude has nasty stuff.

By Andy

August 15, 2006 01:18 AM | Link to this

Head coach I’ll look for you on the falcon page.

By Head Coach

August 15, 2006 01:28 AM | Link to this

Anybody remember Mark Derosa ? dero the hero ? 12 homeruns 61 RBI .331 batting average. He was a Brave who played the outfield and 2B who signed with Texas as a free agent. Just another example of Schuerholz letting talent get away. One other thing , he makes 675,000 compared to Marcus Giles 3,850,000. Ya’ll just wait till next season and watch the All-Star numbers Betemit is going to put up…….. lol.

By MEB

August 15, 2006 01:35 AM | Link to this

Hated that I had to work tonight and miss the Braves fireworks (and its not even Friday night).

Well apparently when the Braves do well they give computer rights to all the inmates. Lot of losers on the board tonight.

GO BRAVES!!!

By mariner

August 15, 2006 01:36 AM | Link to this

derosa was awful when given the starting 3rd base job. he couldn’t hit, he couldn’t field, and then he got hurt. what could js do? dersoa is finally coming around, good for him. but, i don’t think js is too blame.

By John Kerry

August 15, 2006 01:37 AM | Link to this

Losers on this board. You’re kidding.

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 01:52 AM | Link to this

…Just plug me in just like I was Eddie Harris/ you’re eating crazy Cheese like you’d think I’m from Paris…

Oh, sorry. Didn’t realize I was blogging. I got caught up in a tune there.

Once again, great give-and-take on this blog throughout the game. Just got waaay too busy for me to even check in until now, back at the hotel. Just read through all you freaks’ banter. love it.

SJA, sorry, but I can tell that’s not the real SJA. too much talk of shyt and the like. Not SJA’ style. But nice try.

Hey, that Chipper Jones … he ain’t half bad, huh? I’ll refrain from further comment, other than to give you these figures to chew on: He’s hit .401 with 26 extra-base hits hits and 36 RBIs in his past 37 games, including .500 (47-for-94) with 11 homers and 30 RBIs in his past 24 games.

As a certain insufferable sports anchor might say, “I ain’t gonna say nothin’, but that ain’t right.”

Rodger, Cher lyrics made me smile. Because I always think of Cher on that aircraft carrier, or Cher in the Sonny and Cher show wearing very little clothing when I was a young lad with a crush. She’s alright. Gypsys, tramps and thieves, all that. Good cheeze. Not like Paula A… can’t say it. Nothing redeemable whatsoever about her.

Who’s the dude here with the obsession with Tim McGraw. What is it you like, his big hat, big boy? You keep asking me about him, sorry, but I just don’t view him the way you obviously do. To me, he’s just a real bad fake-country act. To you, he’s A Real Man, apparently.

I know you’re kidding. So am I. But Jjack Bauer’s way too cool to have an obsession with McGraw.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 01:59 AM | Link to this

It’s interesting, its about a 50/50 split on trading Andruw. I thought it would be higher for trading him based on the fact that I said what would you do if the Braves KNEW they couldn’t resign him… But, I understand. It’s not that I think Andruw Jones is overrated or not a huge part of this team, but after a season like this one the Braves have to start thinking about the future (and not 2 months into the future like they’ve been doing for the past 14 years). I put the Braves first and I’d rather see them get a couple of top prospects (preferrably pitching) for Andruw Jones over a supplemental first round pick or two. I just think unless the Braves really believe they have a shot at winning it all next year, then they need to build for the future…

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:07 AM | Link to this

DOB, must have been a fun game to be at tonight huh? Chipper really is a great player, it’s just too bad he can’t seem to stay healthy for a whole season anymore. But anyway, did you see the responses to the AJ trade question? It is so tough to correctly assess how plausible an AJ trade would be. Would he waive his no trade clause? And John Scheurholz has never been in this position as GM of the Braves before. Nobody knows how he will react to a playoff-less season…. Should be an interesting winter.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:17 AM | Link to this

DOB how old are you? If you don’t mind me asking…

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 02:17 AM | Link to this

DonC, will DEFINITELY be an interesting winter. I just don’t have a good feel yet for what’s going to happen with ‘Druw. I really don’t. And I don’t think the Braves are very certain yet, either, if at all. We’ll have to get closer to free agency season before getting an idea where the market’s going and to gauge the interest level and what teams are willing to give up for him. Nothing’s going to happen for a while, though, I’d bet on that.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:21 AM | Link to this

And DOB, do you think the Braves really have a shot at sneaking into the wild card? I don’t see how it’s possible with a combination of Barry, Villareal, Shiell, and Cormier pitching 2 of every 5 games…. It is fun watching this offense with Chipper in there though.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:24 AM | Link to this

And dang, DOB, you’re up late man! I’m here in California and it’s getting late for me! If it’s a 7:00EST game, what time do you normally leave the ballpark?

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:31 AM | Link to this

DOB, I’ve been meaning to ask you about Hampton. I think you said something about his rehab going good. What is your gut feel about him? Do you think he can really come back and be a consistent #2 or 3 starter like we desperately need???

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:40 AM | Link to this

The Dodgers need to cool down already. All this winning with former Braves is giving my brother/friends plenty of sh!t-talking ammo…

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:56 AM | Link to this

clearly talking to myself now, ummmm, I’m not even drunk either… night all.

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 07:32 AM | Link to this

It,s a small world after all, it,s a small world after all, it,s a…..hey sure is quite in here.I can hear myself think…aaaaaaaagggghhhh

By chopthis

August 15, 2006 08:20 AM | Link to this

Jules: What time you got?

Vincent: Seven twenty-two in the a.m., Central Daylight Time, anyway. Wanna goad Dave into an argument about movies now?

Jules: Nah, ain’t quite time yet. Let’s hang back.

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

This just in—Drunky Clint reports that REUTERS news agency is running this story….One Israeli woman has received an unexpected boost[no pun intended] from her breast implants during the Lebanon war—-the silicone embeds saved her life during a Hezbollah rocket attack, a doctor said. “She was wounded by shrapnel”, that got stuck in the implants instead of penetrating further. The pictures REUTERS supplied however, are suspected of being doctored and are really those of Dolly Parton. Stock tip of the day—invest in silicone market asap.

By Jack Bauer

August 15, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

Come on DOB, admit it. You like it, you love it, you want some more of it. All those number one records can’t be wrong.

Now tell me this, is Booby Cox going to give McCann a shot at the batting title or is he still going to play Pratt every 4 or 5 games?

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 09:19 AM | Link to this

I have mentioned here before that we still need to keep an eye on the division leaders as possible wild card teams. Especially St. Louis. That team is reeling and smart money would go on Houston to take that division thus putting St. Louis in the wild card mix. Right now they are 7 games ahead of the Braves if they were in the wild card mix. It appears we will have to pretend we are in the NL Central and beat those teams because it appears the wild card will come from that division. You can’t play it on paper though but it will do for this fine blog. In the meantime, just win games Braves!

By Cranky Carl

August 15, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

Here’s my fearless prediction, if Villareal starts this week, he will go on a 2005 Sosa-like tear. Watch him win something like 4 out of 5 starts for the remainder of the season.

And NO, I do not think this team will get within 3 games of the wildcard.

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 15, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

The Astros??? hahahahahaha..what are you smokin??

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 09:36 AM | Link to this

DOB might be a YES man not real sure. He would prefer YES to McGraw apparently. YES was actually pretty good and had a strong cult following back in the 70’s. For what it’s worth I still like them. They weren’t Zep though. Funny how Rolling Stone mag critics deplored Zep but there they are on the latest cover. Gotta be pretty damn good to keep appearing on covers of anything after 35+ years. “Gonna buy 5 copies for my mother…..”. Go ahead it’s OK to blame me the rest of the day for putting that song in your head.

To wit…….in my post I was refering actually to me not being a yes man (always agreeing with DOB). I like the way it was twisted though. Still can’t agree with DOB on The Clash over Zeppelin for the deserted island music scenario. I mean I liked Rock The Kasba(sic) but seriously who you gonna take.

I am still stuck in the mainstream as I have not heard of many of the artists you speak about on this blog.

James Taylor is opening the new John Paul Jones Arena at UVA in Charlottesville on Thursday. No they didn’t name it for that JPJ of Zeppelin but it has a nice ring to it.

By Rodger

August 15, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

dadgum, dadgum! now JT is going to Carolina in his tour bus!

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

BIG DOG…….same thing I was smoking last year.

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 09:52 AM | Link to this

TRIVIA TIME

the first one to answer correctly will miraculously have the song “on the cover of the Rolling Stone” removed from their subconscious mind. Ready here we go:

….In Div.1 college football what is the oldest field still in continuous use.

Sorry no hints, good luck and may God bless.

By Rodger

August 15, 2006 09:53 AM | Link to this

Sorry, didn’t read thoroughly. Charlottesville, VA, not Charlotte, NC. Oh well, another cup of coffee, please!

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 15, 2006 09:53 AM | Link to this

Last year the Astros finished strong, this year they’re chokin their butts off…wouldn’t bet the farm on them this year…

By Lew

August 15, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this

Dog-Mornin’ Bra. I actually agree with you about the Astros. I wouldn’t count out the Cards quite yet. Any team with Pujols Edmonds and Rolen still can light it up-even with Sosa in the rotation. Houston may still have the pitching, but Petite has been up and down and they lost 3-0 last night with Oswalt pitching. Clemens may be the second coming, but I don’t think he will be enough. Also, any team that can’t score runs in that little stadium has real problems.

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 10:09 AM | Link to this

Scattershooting while wondering what ever happened to the band Nantucket that used to play the Southeast circuit in the 70’s and 80’s and based out of Jacksonville/Wilmington area in NC. Good group!

Houston simply has the starting pitching edge over the Cards and Cincy plus big big bats. I’m taking Houston down the stretch believing their starters and experience will make the difference. If the Braves miraculously make the playoffs I feel it will be St. Louis they have to beat to win the wild card. Not saying they will, as I have mentioned many times, but still pulling for them hard and hoping.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 10:28 AM | Link to this

Dadgum-To say Houston has the pitching edge is historical thinking. They, like the Braves, USED to have the pitching edge. Clemens has a great ERA @ 2.24, but is 4-4. Oswalt is only 9-8, even with a decent ERA and Petite is 11-12 with an ERA of 4.86. Lidge has an overall ERA of 5.60 and a hefty Sosa or Reitsma-like 6.10 ERA at night. They have absolutely no offense to back up what pitching they do have. At least St.Louis and Cincinnati have an offense-no pitching, but an offense. They can at least score runs. Houston is at best, a .500 team, just like the Braves. It will take a while before either of them are at .500 or a threat to the teams ahead of them. At least the Braves have an offense, too. What has happened to all of the pitching this year?

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 10:37 AM | Link to this

Many of you have speculated about the big off season scenarios as I have. My belief is that the Braves will dangle some combo of Thorman, Salty, Giles, and Escobar for a front line starter and perhaps a backup catcher. Pratt will most likely not be resigned with Bryan Pena moving into the backup role next year with Atlanta. Salty is just expendable now as he is just too far away for the Braves to project him playing another position as he won’t be on their catching radar. Gotta trade young good talent in that case if it will bring you what you need. I would be shocked if Salty wasn’t dealt in the off season.

If the Braves are going to sign Andruw they are going to have to get rid of some big contract which points to Giles in order to be in the Andruw sweepstakes.

Thorman just looks like the odd man out to me. Simply no place for him in Atlanta as my guess is that they will keep Langerhans as insurance in the outfield behind Diaz. Escobar well I hate to get rid of him but unless the Braves can patch up their needs with aforementioned players he may have to be included in a trade. Escobar is far more valuable than Salty so my guess is that he would be a last resort. I would actually like to see Escobar backing up Renteria next year. Man has a better arm than Renteria and better overall defensively.

By KC

August 15, 2006 10:37 AM | Link to this

We gained ground on 5 teams in the Wild Card race last night, passing 2 of them in the standings. We remain 5 games behind Cinci in the loss column, and while we’d like to be closer right now, we’re still very much within striking distance. Especially the teams we’re trying to pass (including the Reds) are all .500 teams, both in record and by nature.

Whether or not we win the Wild Card, I think we will make a real run at it. I my mind, there are only 3 things that can derail Atlanta’s chances of making a run at the WC:

1-Another injury to Chipper or another key player (but especially Chipper).

2-If we can’t win a game not started by Smoltz, Hudson, or James. Hopefully, Kyle Davies will provide a lift to the bottom end of this rotation later this month. And apparently there is still some hope of getting HoRam back before the end of the season.

3-If Huddy has a relapse or if C.James doesn’t continue to come through.

If none of those 3 things happen, with Atlanta’s potent offense, a good rotation (1-3), and a solid bullpen (at least at the back end), the Braves have an excellent shot at the Wild Card. The test starts tonight. We’ve got to win these games that are started by the likes of Cormier and Villareal. Right now, that’s 2 out of every 5 games, so we’ve got to pull out at least half of these games started by these temporary 4th/5th starters to have a chance.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 10:41 AM | Link to this

lew, journalist is enjoying your artwork. you have captured the hartebeest in his maginifigance! boy hartebeest, right? much longer neck than paronto. and how is carolina lady? is our joint venture with the banner of st. george going well?

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 10:43 AM | Link to this

KC you are right on the money about the 4/5 starters. You can’t expect Smoltz and Hudson to win every game the rest of the way so wins by the 4/5 guys are a must to balance things out. All of this is assuming the offense stays hot which I think they will.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this

Esteemed Sir James-I’m glad you like the artwork. Hartebeest did manage to stay still long enough for a decent sketch, anyway. I think Carolina Lady is tired. Keeping up with the doctors can wear anyone down. KC-I love your unbounded optimism dude, wish I had half as much. I wouldn’t count on Horacio any more this year. Even if the tear heals, I don’t think he will be ready by season’s end. Look at all the problems Thomson has had (and yes I know his was worse). I also wouldn’t count on Kyle Davies coming back too strong. His was a nasty injury and his rehab starts have not been awe inspiring. I will be happy if he comes on strong for next season. I wouldn’t count out Cormier or Villarreal, though. Cormier is still young and we have to keep in mind that Villa. is still only about a year or so from having major surgery. If not this season, I look for contributions from them next year-Yates, too is coming off of surgery and I feel still has an upside. Time will tell. I’m still gun shy about Hudson. If I knew what his problem was, I would be more positive about his continued success, but time there, too, will tell. He has looked much better the last two times out.

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this

‘Mornin’, everyone. Lew, you are so right: I’m just pooped! We have another afternoon of it today and tomorrow, then a couple of days at home. How many “test” can there possibly be???

Jimmy, posted yesterday:

“August 14, 2006 12:04 PM

Sir cousin jimmy smith journalist gentleman, I’ve repeatedly run the banner through the washer all morning - with one short rest while the motor cooled. The material is definitely cleaner now and the combination of detergent, Listerine and Febreeze has completely removed the lingering odor from the skunk. That’s the good news.

Does Sir gentleman cousin jimmy smith journalist perhaps know a good weaver??

I’m sure all the treads are here …. there are so many it’s hard to be sure but I didn’t see any more in the filter, and I’ve untangled the wad …. I mean, they are all laid out nice and neat……. Please advise.”

By Rodger

August 15, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

From his recent success, maybe Huddy’s problems were just a lack of focus? It seems he has just buckled down more, recently. As for the James, more times than not, he has been promising. But 4/5, wow! If we are to make a run, we can’t have any more Shiell/Barry type performances. What a boost it would have been to get the strong performance Maddux has given LA…

By KC

August 15, 2006 11:09 AM | Link to this

LEW: Where was the “unbounded optimism” you noticed??

I felt my thoughts were fairly grounded. I listed 3 things that could derail Atlanta’s chances. And I’m not “counting” on HoRam, by any stretch. Just caught wind that the Braves front office feels there is still at least a 30-40% chance that he’ll be back next month.

How is it optimistic to say IF we stay healthy, Hudson and James continue to come through, and we win more than half of the games started by the bottom of the rotation… we’ve got a good chance? I didn’t say I was betting the farm on it, but certainly the Atlanta has the most talented team of any that is in the Wild Card hunt, and if just a few things can go their way (for once this season), the Braves still have a shot at this thing.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this

KC-I’m not putting you down for your optimism. I’ve always been impressed with it and I wish I was that type of person, myself.

By KC

August 15, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

Lew, never took it as a putdown in any way. I know you’re cooler than that. :o)

My point was that I didn’t think my post was overly optimistic. I wasn’t making any wild predictions. I was simply saying that if certain things can go right (instead of wrong as nearly everything has all season), namely:

Health!!!!, Hudson’s/James’ performance the rest of the way, and winning the simple majority of the games started by the bottom of our rotation… the Braves still have a shot. You don’t share that view?

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

DonC, sorry to make you talk to yourself. I logged off right after my last message at 2-whatever last night/this morning.

Been doing a few radio interviews _ you wouldn’t believe how many people get interested when NL records are tied and Chipper hits three homers in a game….

Anyway, DonC, I’m 42….

As for starter Thursday, it’s going to be Villarreal, barring any sudden changes.

** No decision yet on who goes down today. Probably Barry, to make room for Cormier. But Bobby could decide to drop a position guy and go with 13 pitchers for a week. I know it’d be Barry if I was making the calls, but I’m not. Bobby hasn’t called me for advice today….

Dadgum, no man would ever make a friend choose between Led Zep and the Clash. But… if you forced me to, if I absolutely had to, I’d choose the Clash. But that’s just me. “Rock the Casbah?” Come on, man, that ain’t one of their 25 best songs, and I’m not even exaggerating. We’ve got some Clash fans on here that would agree with me, guaranteed _ that’s just their big hit, not nearly their best work. Dude, there’s a reason they were known as The Only Band That Matters.

But I’d never argue with anyone who chose Zep in that argument, either. Simply huge, colossal rock. Again, this is just me, but I’d take Zep over every straight-ahead rock band (I consider The Clash a punk-rock band, not conventional hard rock).

By Voice of Reason

August 15, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

If Davies can come back in a week or so and have any positive impact, you still gotta find a 5th guy, and I’m just not optimistic about the Vulture. You can’t give away 1 game in 5 and expect to get anywhere. I certainly don’t want to sound like a pessimist, which I’ve never been accused of, but I honestly can’t see any kind of real playoff push. The Bravos would have to reel of a 7-8 or so game winning streak, and still play .667 the rest of the way. Can’t do it without 5 major league starters… just can’t be done. That being said, I think last night exhibited the capability of this year’s squad. Very potent offense and 7 strong innings from the rookie James. Maybe JS gives us another August surprise and acquires another starter… maybe Davies comes back strong (and very rested)… Maybe the planets align just right… no, no, I will not allow myself any unrealistic dreams… must… let… go… Unbridled homeristic optimism can really be a killer… I need pie!

By Snowball's Chance

August 15, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

The way Chipper has played when healthy shows how valuable he is. He has even showed some emotion. When he went down the first week I felt sure that his year and maybe career were over. I believe that a lot of these other injuries stem from that first injury.

Can the Braves make the playoffs ? I don’t think so, But I wrote them off last year. Maybe if they didn’t make the playoffs last year they would have picked up more pitching for this year. If they do make it, it will mean they are the hottest team going into the post season. That would be sweet.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

Andy: Yes.

Pedro is hurt. I love it. All the rumor is, the Mets are trying to bring in Sean Green. Now that’s an interesting trade. The Braves need pitching. They trade a utility guy for another utility guy and a pitcher. The Mets need pitching, and they work out a deal for Sean Green. They have a big lead, so they’re probably safe. But I’d still love to see a collapse.

These Braves aren’t out of the hunt yet. They need to rattle off a serious winning streak or win 4 of 5 for 4 weeks or more, but they aren’t officially eliminated. This years offense is amazing though. Really incredible. And it’s always good to see Chipper mashing the ball all over creation.
Here’s to win tonight. GO BRAVES!!

By Snowball's Chance

August 15, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

DOB, I saw Zeppelin a few times But never the Clash. I would have loved to see The Clash and Joe Ely on the tour they did together in the eighties. I think the clash/Zep preference would probably fall in different age brackets. I’m 56. Same age as Tom waits. I am not going to be able to Trump you having attended a Waits concert.

By KC

August 15, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

VOR:

That’s where Chipper being back in this lineup is so huge. Chipper’s not the only horse in this lineup. It’s loaded, top to bottom. Buy Chipper seems to be the linchpin that holds it all together and really makes it all click. What I’m trying to say is that as long as he’s healthy, the Braves have the best offense in the NL.

It’s a little tougher to ride on your offense in October (ask the Cards), but you can win a lot of games with offense through the regulars season (again, ask the Cards… until this season anyway). The Braves have the kind of offense that may allow them to overcome injuries to the pitching staff.

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 12:11 PM | Link to this

let’s not go crazy over Diaz just yet and pencil him in every day in LF next year. Langerhans had a pretty darn good year last year, and then regressed this year. That’s not unusual for young players, and it wouldn’t be unusual to see him regain his stroke next year, either (assuming that it really is there to regain). And Thorman’s upside (to me) is huge, too much so for basic trade bait. Diaz is en fuego, no doubt, and I like the guy, but I wouldn’t be ready to hand over the position to him just yet. And did I see somebody opine that he should be batting leadoff? Please!

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

I’ll defer to your judgment of The Clash as Rock The Kasbah is frankly the only song I can come up with from them on a bet. I am 12 years older than you apparently so maybe that explains it. Not sure. Just glad to know there are 25 better songs by them. Rock on dude.

Oh yeah……anybody else coming on this blog and mentioning the likes of, and I will only give initials, P.A. should be sentenced to the same detail Boy George is on. Ouch! can’t believe I typed that. From now on it is B.G. Help…help…Miss Rudolph!!

By The GM

August 15, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

If anybody has ever doubted that Chipper Jones makes this offense go you need look no further than the last month. He’s in there the offense is killing teams he gets hurt the offense has bases loaded 3 different times in the Reds series and gets nothing out of it! Chipper brings the confidence and level of play up!

As for next year We had better sign Wickman. I’d love to see us sign Baez too. That would make our bullpen unstopable in the 8th and 9th. Trade Andruw for 2 young stud pitchers (One of which can step right in to the rotation and produce) and a good position prospect. Then I’d trade Thorman and Horacio for a power hitting RF. Move Francoeur to CF. Let Langy and Diaz continue their platoon in LF.

Just my humble opinion.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

No problem DOB, I should have been in bed anyway…. Now come on everybody, this eternal optimism is making me nuts… The Braves throw us a bone and we are all over it like Filet Mignon. 3 wins in the past 4 games… oooohh,aaaaahhh, break out the Champagne bottles and start ordering the rings! Lets face it, this team has 3 ML starters and 2 grocery baggers to fill out their rotation. We will all remember why the wheels fell off the wagon a while ago (see the humiliating sweep at the hands of the Muts) after tonights loss. This team is 7 games under .500 for a reason! All teams, at this point in the season, are what they are for the most part. The Braves are a less than .500 team, the Muts are the best team in the NL, and everyone else in the NL is slightly above average or slightly below average. Even the Dodgers, who have won 15 of 16 games, IMO are still not much better than an 87 or 88 win team. When was the last time a team with a below .500 record in mid-August turned out to be any better than a few games under or over .500? IT DOESN’T HAPPEN! And don’t even try and use the Astros the last 2 years as a comparison, because in both of those years their runs began in early JULY or late JUNE, not MID AUGUST! So, we can all keep our hopes up, and wish all we want. But why don’t you guys try wishing in one hand and sh!tting in the other, I can guarantee you which one will fill up faster!

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this

This Braves team top to bottom is simply the very best total lineup in the NL when you consider offense and defense. If we had traded earlier for Wickman or Baez or secured another starter then we would be talking about leading the wild card and only being about 6 games behind the Mets. Can we catch up, maybe, but not likely.

By KC

August 15, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

VOR:

That’s where Chipper being back in this lineup is so huge. Chipper’s not the only horse in this lineup. It’s loaded, top to bottom. Buy Chipper seems to be the linchpin that holds it all together and really makes it all click. What I’m trying to say is that as long as he’s healthy, the Braves have the best offense in the NL.

It’s a little tougher to ride on your offense in October (ask the Cards), but you can win a lot of games with offense through the regulars season (again, ask the Cards… until this season anyway). The Braves have the kind of offense that may allow them to overcome injuries to the pitching staff.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

This year has just not seen the Braves click on all cylinders at any point in the season. Whenever the bats were going good, either the starting pitching or relief pitching (or both) haven’t been there. Whenever the starters were going good the relief hasn’t been there. Whenever the relievers are going good the starters forget how to pitch. And whenever the offense had struggled the pitchers were doing fine… Just such a frustrating year all around.

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

Thanks Don for your optimism and trying to crush any hopes for the fans. The Braves may or may not make the playoffs, who knows, but I love this team and have been following this team for years and even if you think our hope is unwarranted, it is still our hope. Until the final bell is tolled, I REFUSE TO GIVE UP HOPE!!

By Shaun

August 15, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

Four-Man Rotation

The Braves have one of the best offenses in the league and one of the worst pitching staffs in the league. That equals a .500 team. Their record is a little worse than their runs scored and runs allowed would indicate, probably due to luck and a bad bullpen. I think they can get back into the race because the NL is weak, but they need to go with a 4-man rotation and hope that Tim Hudson returns to his 2002-2003 form. The just need to make sure none of the bad pitchers get in the game. That means pitch Smoltz, Hudson, Baez and Wickman as much as possible. The playoffs are now for the Braves.

By KC

August 15, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

dadgum:

I agree 100%

By Voice of Reason

August 15, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

As unfortunate as it is to have Chipper ever go on the DL, he always comes back with a vengeance. Huge, huge, strokes last night. Prodigious blasts, and the best part is I get to use the word prodigious. Right now, everybody seems to be hitting. In July, most of these guys couldn’t have found a hit on DOB’s iPod.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

DonC: Here’s a question for you… How many teams have come back from being down 3 games to nothing in a 7 game series, up against the best closer in history with one out left in the game… and then go on and win the world series? It’s baseball. The only precedence that really matters in this sport is that anything can happen. The odds aren’t in the Braves favor. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

And what’s with all this trade AJ for pitching talk again? Next year we will have 6 starters with major league experience. 3 lefties. 3 righties. 3 Veterans. 3 Youngesters. We don’t need to trade AJ for more pitching, even if we could predict the future and knew he was going to walk, we’d have a better chance to win with AJ than without. And his body isn’t breaking down. I recall the Red Sox saying the Rocket was starting to break down. He went to the Blue Jays and won Cy Youngs. He’s still pitching today. And Andruw has an impecable health record. Not all players are made of glass like Griffey Jr, Prior, Wood, Drew, etc. Some of them are like Nolan Ryan, Ripken, or Hammerin’ Hank. They can handle it day in and day out on their march to Cooperstown. Besides, a slower version of AJ is still better than most outfielders. And if, when AJ is 38 or 48, he can’t play like he did when he was 28, we can move him to left field.

By basketball coach

August 15, 2006 01:13 PM | Link to this

A Braves’ minor leaguer that few ever mention is a kid named Gregor Blanco. He’s a 23 year old, small, quick little center fielder, and he’s a legit lead-off hitter. He has a 1:1 walk-to-strikeout ratio, he steals bases, and bats .300. I recently saw him play at Richmond, and he went 2 for 5 with a double and a SB.

For all of the attention devoted to the young middle-infielders, this kid has engendered very little discussion. With all of the talk of the Braves’ need for a lead-off hitter, and with LF being the team’s weakest offenisive position, this kid could be a real gem for us.

DOB, do you have any info on this kid?

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

I agree 10Paul. Could you imagine the outfield without AJ in it? There’d be a whole lot of running around trying to pick up the ball to hold the runner to a double, instead of soft tossing it to 2nd after the out was made.

By basketball coach

August 15, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, I totally agree with your assessment. While we might lack a 2nd starter that is of all-star calliber, we will have Hudson and Hampton, who are very good #3 pitchers. We have every reason to expect a solid season from Hampton next year, which would give us a very good 1-2-3 top of the rotation.

James is certainly a solid #4 who gives us a good chance to win more often than not.

Then with Davies, Ramirez, and Lerew, we’d have the deepest starting pitching in baseball.

So, while we would only have one all-star pitcher, we’d be very balanced 1 through 5. With Wickman as the closer and a very good offense, we could turn some heads next year.

By Voice of Reason

August 15, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this

In case DOB’s a little busy at the moment, I’ll try to shed a little light on Gregor Blanco. You can click here for his stats page. Good looking kid. He might be a year or so away…

Actually the kid on some folks radar is Brandon Jones in AA Pearl. He was recently named #21 in the top 100 OF prospect in baseball. You can click here for his stats page. Enjoy…

By Dennis

August 15, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this

I BELIEVE!!!

By Lew

August 15, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

DOB-I’d have to go with Zep, also. I’m 55 and I think the age thing definitely makes a difference. I was not into punk when it first came out and am only now getting into it at all. However, I will agree that London Calling beats Kasbah hands down. I don’t know about Chipper missing all the time, but when he does play-damn. Extending the numbers you put up the other day, Chipper is hitting better than .325 with 30HR and 102 RBI in hispast 130 games. That is definitely world class no matter how you look at it.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

New blog yet DOB?

By hk

August 15, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

KC …

… earlier in the year I posted a fairly involved chart with weighted criteria for what it means to be a fan … turns out that changes during the season, based on the situation … right now, for me as a fan, it boils down to Hope (75), Worry (10) and Analysis (15) …

Hope …

… rough chances of each contending team for the wild card:

Team………….W…….L…….GB..Chances

Cincinnati……61……57……0.0…..15

San Diego…….60……58……1.0…..14

Arizona………59……59……2.0…..13

Colorado……..58……60……3.0…..12

Philadelphia….57……60……3.5……9

Houston………57……61……4.0…..12

Atlanta………55……62……5.5…..11

San Francisco…55……63……6.0……5

Florida………55……63……6.0……8

Milwaukee…….55……63……6.0……1

Totals Chances …………………….100

…. this says to me the Braves still have as good a chance as anybody …

Worry …

… other than things already mentioned, Huddy still weakens in the 6-7th inning, did again in his last outing, haven’t the foggiest why … and looking at his career stats, Cormier really scares me tonight …

Analysis (aka ‘rationalization’) …

… Cincy is 4 games over .500, has been at that level for several months … nobody else has made a run at all except Fla and Philly, but they have both cooled off … let’s say at season end Cincy (or another) ends up on top, 6 games over .500 … for the Braves to equal that, hence causing a playoff, they would have to go 29-16 … (hmmm, could be worse)…

… all of the above gives room for ‘Hope’, which I say again, is what being a fan is all about this time of year …

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

hk, I already explained the Tim Hudson situation - He can’t pop his greenies anymore since they added amphetamines to the list of banned substances this year. That’s why he tires after 80 - 90 pitches! The explanation (and his frail body) make too much sense to not be true!…… And about hope, well, apparantly everybody on this blog has it. Like I said before, hope in one hand and sh!t in the other, I can guarantee which one fills up first.

By Head Coach

August 15, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

Guy’s the Braves playoff hopes ended two and a half months ago. The last time this team was above .500 was June 4th. Why do I keep repeating myself ??? lol. If your having problems with these massive page loads . Download Netscape or Firefox as a browser. Either one is ten times faster than Explorer.

By MGL

August 15, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

We need some help in the Wild Card race. The Cards need to pull away in the Central Div., hopefully by sweeping the Reds starting tonight. Also, the Dodgers need to pull away in the West. If the two top teams in either Div. pull away, we have a much tougher hill to climb.

By Rodger

August 15, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

HeadCoach-are you related to Knute Rockney? Motivation like yours is hard to come by!

The reason hope exists is koff-koff, other than the Mets, the NL sucks. No one is making a move to pull away. Even though we don’t have many starters to throw out, occasionally, we’ll run into somebody elses AAA pitchers as well, and our offense may win some of those.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Hope also exists because this is August. We are playing the Nats, Marlins, Pirates and Giants the rest of the Month. The schedule couldn’t be any easier. This team has the talent to do it. They just have to focus, produce, and have fun.

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

no new blog yet DOB?

By MGL

August 15, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

Tonight’s wishlist…

Braves over Nats Cards over Reds Giants over Padres Rockies over D’backs Mets over Phillies (hurts to say that) Cubs over Astros

Wild Card Standings then …

Reds Padres 1 D’backs 2 Rockies 2 Pillies 3.5 Astros 4 Braves 4.5

Go Braves!!!

By mark

August 15, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

Paul they have been a sub .500 team for 11 weeks and there are 7 weeks left on the season. You keep hoping , I’ll keep laughing !

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 03:45 PM | Link to this

Uhhh, the Marlins swept us the last time we played them, and the Giants are easily capable of taking 2 of 3 against the Braves… In fact, I bet their fans are saying the same thing about playing us… “We get Atlanta for 4 games coming up, sweet.”

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

I would agree that the individual player talent on this team is better than their record would indicate. But the sum of the parts is as good as this record. Something is not right about this team chemistry wise, not sure what it is. If I had to put a finger on it, it’s either Mazzone or Furcal. And I would say Furcal, look what the Dodgers are doing right now with Furcal at the top of the lineup… very reminiscent of the Braves second half surge last year when Furcal got hot.

By Head Coach

August 16, 2006 12:57 AM | Link to this

Ditto Don , ditto….. what is the one common ingredient in the 14 year postseason run ? Rafeal Furcal , Reggie Sanders , Deion Sanders , Marquis Grissom , Kenny Lofton and Otis Nixon. all 14 teams had a fast baserunning , basestealing leadoff hitter. This 2006 squad is missing that key ingredient.

By David

August 17, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

It matters not what Furcal has done with the Dodgers and what Glavine is doing with the Mets, the bottom line is that the Braves will win the World Series this year—that’s right, I said it, the Braves will win the World Series. Why shouldn’t they? They have by far the greatest manager in the history of the game; the Braves also have the greatest general manager in the history of the game; plus the Braves have 14 consecutive eastern division crowns on the line—it will take a major miracle to get #15, but I think the Braves are saving their best baseball for now and they will continue to win until the overtake the Mets, win the rounds of the playoffs and perform the crowning act by winning the world series. I will never doubt the Braves as long as I have the breath of life in me, because the Braves have never let me down in the past—-NOT in 14 straight years; so here’s to 15 straight eastern division crowns!!!!!