Braves

By John Adcox

August 15, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

Not too long ago, someone on this blog floated the idea of Diaz as a leadoff hitter, suggesting that average and OBP beats speed any day. At the time, I remember dismissing the suggestion. My bad. It’s not a bad idea, and with limited resources that MUST go to starting pitching, I think it’s worth looking into. I wouldn’t mind seeing Marcus’ bat a little lower in the order if a quality starter can be found via free agency, or by trading someone else.

John Who couldn’t get tickets to see Indigo Girls at Eddie’s.

By dfree

August 15, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

DOB, any offical word on who will be thursday’s starter?

you think there is a possibilty Braves will cash in on Diaz’s bat this offseason by trading him? could u get any real value for him?

By Madison

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

DOB,have you confirmed Villarreal as the Thursday starter? and also who goes down today in order to add Cormier to the active roster? My guess would be Barry but after reading Bobby’s comments about Yates, I suspect he may go.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

a spark was ignited when diaz entered Saturday night’s game. imagine 10 straight hits! first time since 1992. will diaz play tonight? time will tell. now, chipper - journalist likes to have fun with chipperspeak but journalist must say that number 10 is eloquent with his bat. sir chipper, gentleman, maybe? now, more journalism school: the duties of a journalist are to find the facts, and present them interestingly and with accuracy. if music, pie, or toes can be worked in all the better. dob has cleverly worked all in at one time or another. hk says there is still hope for the braves and that is good enough for journalist jimmy smith. now, carolina lady … oh, the humanity! threads? a weaver? where will we find earl weaver? is this the end of the banner of st. george? or will carolina lady perform a miracle with needle and thread? stay tuned.

By chopthis

August 15, 2006 03:40 PM | Link to this

Hey, Guys!

I just noticed the coolest thing! You know what? With last night’s game, the Braves ran their record to a perfect 15-0 for games in which they score at least 10 runs. So best I can figure, if they just concentrate on scoring 10 runs every game, then no matter how bad the pitching is, they’re a pretty sure bet to win them all. So why stop at the wild card? I think I’ve discovered the key to catching the Mets!

Whattaya think, guys? Thoughts, DOB?

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

Chipper is un real. For some more unrealistic projecting… if Chipper continues what he did last night over the remaining 44 games, he’ll end the season hitting .498 with 150 homers. HA! I’d imagine though, that if he did some how manage to walk with the gods, he’d be walked enough to keep those numbers on earth.

Thanks for the post DOB.

GO BRAVES!!

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, with numbers like that, Chipper could possibly win the MVP. :)

By matt

August 15, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, I was at the game last night and could not believe the pop Chipper had in his bat. He almost hit a ball out to left field in his second at bat. He is on a tear, and so is Diaz. Bobby needs to forget about Ryan in left field and let Diaz play everyday. Diaz will produce more runs than he will allow. Paronto looked impressive out of the pen last night as well. Bobby has to like seeing that performance from his bullpen.

By chopthis

August 15, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Feel free to write a story on this great stat I’ve uncovered. Headline could be “A perfect 10.”

It’ll inspire the boys.

Now, after we win the division, it’ll be difficult to score 10 runs every time against playoff-caliber pitching, but not impossible. Besides, we’ll only be starting our three best pitchers come October, so maybe we won’t need to score 10 runs every game.

No team’s going to wanna see the Braves coming now. That’s for sure.

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

i just got to ballpark and had a chance to add couple of things to original blog, if you all care.

villarreal’s the starter, unless i hear anything different, in which case i’ll tell you

By Rodger

August 15, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

Not to start anything, but has Chipper been getting treatment with “the clear” or “the cream” for his injuries? Holy Cow!

By John Bama

August 15, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

There is no questioning Chipper’s talent. He is a top 10 type offensive player in the national league if he can stay healthy over a full season. The IF there just seems to grow year after year. He is a special talent and I can only hope for a healthy 44 games this year and maybe 150 games next year.

As for Diaz let’s see what happens. Scott Thorman I believe is going to be a very good pro. 30 homeruns down the road but we need to score all we can right now with our staff and to me it seems Diaz gives us the best chance to do that. Who cares where he is in the order (though the thought of him at lead off is not terrible considering the options) just let the guy hit while he is hot.

By Head Coach

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

Any team that scores ten runs a game is going to win , thats a no brainer.

By Rodger

August 15, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

Had forgotten a lot of those Clash songs. Definitely some good ones. Was it Mick Jones or Strummer that recently died?

By gotigers72

August 15, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Chipper has been bashed some on these boards and I don’t understand why. Over .300 career average, WITH POWER, an MVP, has made sacrifices by playing left field and by redoing his contract so the Braves could pursue other players, drove in over 100 runs in what 7 or 8 consecutive seasons [that’s consistent], and WANTS to be a Brave.

How can you criticize or want to trade a player like that? Sure he’s been injured a lot the past 2 years, but other than the other Jones, there aren’t many players that want to play every inning of every game. We Braves fans have been lucky to be able to watch an elite player like Chipper. Trade him? You’ve gotta be kidding.

By Alan

August 15, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

All of the JS bashers crack me up when they b***h about his “terrible” trades. How come no one says anything when he absolutely steals someone - such as Diaz last offseason? Not to mention Renteria. IMO, the Renteria trade is the best deal since the McGriff trade in ‘93. Let’s be fair and balanced, folks, and give the GM his due when he’s earned it. Which happens to be most of the time.

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

Here is something to look up somewhere. Not sure if this was just conjecture or actual numbers told to me but here goes. It is called the rule of 64. Basically it goes like this if you score 6 runs a game you win 80% of the time, 5 runs and you win a little over 50%, 4 runs and you win about 40%. Supposedly these numbers have been extrapolated from years of games. Just a little something to get the numbers guys on the blog interested.

All Washington Nationals games are always blacked out in Richmond thanks to Peter Angelos and his deal with MLB. These include all Nationals away games too. I will be listening tonight on XM radio. Go Braves. Might go to the Wed. game if I feel like dealing with the traffic.

Man DOB, guess you know the Clash alright. FYI….I have only heard of one of those songs “should I stay or Go”. It would rank nowhere in my Top 1000 but hey that is just me. I still think you are cool though really I mean it. Just never got the punk rock thing although it beats disco which it mercifully shoved out the door. I don’t go mentioning disco names or groups for the same reason as the P.A. thing.

“Long Live Rock I need it every day”

By Mark S

August 15, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

DOB- you mean to tell me Complete Control isn’t as good or better than Rock the Casbah? IMO, thats one of the 10 best songs ever written, by ANY band!!

By beachcomber

August 15, 2006 04:45 PM | Link to this

Ron R., Head Coach, Carolina Lady, all fellow bloggers, I have to be away for this one tonight - pull extra hard! Best line of the week, particularly in light of tonight’s starter. Skip Caray “There is stirring in the Atlanta bullpen and Braves fans bow their heads in prayer.” Get us a win guys and gals!!

By MBATL

August 15, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

Rodger, think that was Joe Strummer that died a few years ago. Jones is still doing his thing, I think, though I can’t think of the name of his band. Remember he founded Big Audio Dynamite and General Public, too… my tastes are a little more mainstream these days (not enough time or energy to search out the new stuff, I guess), but the Clash, and Jones, were among my favorites back in the day (god, I hate that expression!).

Man, hard to believe, given all the offensive records we’ve broken or tied or approached this year, that the Braves scored 94 runs IN THE MONTH OF JUNE. Give us a break-even record for that month and we’re right at the top of the heap for the WC. Guess it doesn’t work that way though.

By Mark S

August 15, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

Also, DOB, I never thought much of “Ivan Meets GI Joe” or “The Mag. 7”. They have good beats, but those were written because Topper Headon was doing quite a bit of “experimenting” after their 1st US tour, both musically and…well…recreationally. They are hip hop songs, and are way ahead of their time, for sure…but I think Rock the Casbah is a stronger tune than both. Its political message has been lost after years of inclusion on 80’s compilations and adult contemporary radio airplay

By TrueBlueBravesFan

August 15, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

Actually I wouldn’t mess with the batting order. I think its just fine the way it is. People forget the importance of the reliable #8 hitter. And I’m not joking. You need a hitter that either gets on base in front of the pitcher so that the pitcher can bunt him over or gives you a quality at bat with the bases loaded before the pitcher. So yes the #8 hitter is a very important spot. If you moved Diaz to leadoff just who would you bat 8th. Franceur…no good not patient enough plus you need his pop higher up. Laroche….maybe but I like his power higher up as well. Giles……..(see Franceur). McCann…..you are kidding right. You see my point? I think the order works just the way it is.

By MBATL

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

TBBF, absolutely agree. On top of all the good sense you make, I can’t see handing Diaz a job (leadoff) that might just take him off his stroke. Leave him 8th, where the pitcher can sacrifice him and Giles can drive him in.

By TennesseePaul

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

This team has to play it’s heart out. I wanna see it too. This is the time. It’s August. It’s the easiest schedule of the season. No reason to let up. They all need to go out there and perform at top notch. Even if that’s over kill. I’d rather have them practice perfect ball when it doesn’t count as much than half-@ss it through the rest of this month.
They need a winning streak. Now is the best time. We play the Nats. The Marlins, the Pirates, and the Giants the rest of the Month. All these teams are cellar dwellers. This is the time to rise above, if for no other reason than to get out of that crowd…

By el bravo x

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

9 beers in nine innings, today Dos XX. Whomever scores first wins!

By Spider29

August 15, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

Very enjoyable game last night. Chuckie’s pitching performance was overshadowed by Diaz and both were put to shame (almost!) by Chipper. Number freaks, here’s something that you have probably already figured out but…if the bullpen had blown only 10 games instead of 20 earlier the Braves would be 65 and 52. That would be 6 games out of first and five ahead of the Reds for the wild card. Kind of makes one ill to think about it. I’m looking forward to tonight’s game. Just maybe Cormier has 5 or 6 solid innings in him! The offense is looking great again but does anyone else think that maybe Edgar could use a day off?

By Snowball's Chance

August 15, 2006 05:24 PM | Link to this

Towns Van Zandt is in at least the top five of alltime great songwriters. Unfortunately, like many of my favorites- Fred Neil, Tim Buckley, Tim Hardin he wasted a lot of his career with a drug habit. The sad thing was that Townes cleaned up and was stable and making great music when died following surgery. “Pancho and Lefty” is my favorite song of his. It’s reads like a great short story.

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 05:29 PM | Link to this

Hey, couple things:

It’s a cruel game sometimes, as Scott Thorman just found out. He was the one sent down to make room for Cormier coming off DL to start tonight. Bobby wanted to go with an extra pitcher, in part because don’t know what to expect from Cormier and from Villarreal, who’s starting Thursday. Wanted extra relief if needed.

Can’t say I agree or disagree with it. Only other thing could have done is Pena, but Bobby feels that strongly about having a good backup shortstop (not Orr).

Pena’s playing tonight, by the way. Renteria just getting a day off.

Diaz is batting second with Renteria out of the lineup.

Andruw might get scatched because of a sore knee. He’s testing it now during BP as I type this. It’s been sore a week or so, a chronic thing that flares up time to time, and then he got hit in the knee by another player’s spike last night in the clubhouse, just an innocent accident when the other guy was reaching into his locker, foot was raise, and Andruw didn’t see it and walked directly into it, hitting the exact spot that was already sore.

Mark S, agreed on Casbah, etc. But I didn’t say all 38 were better. Just “as good or better.” And I admit, hearing Casbah so much ruined it for me. Because it is a great tune, just got so damn ubiquitous, heard it everywhere, all the time.

If you’d never heard it before and it came on today, you’d say it’s the best new song on the radio. I know I would.

The Clash. Man, what a great band. Rest in peace, Joe Strummer.

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

Mark S, you’re absolutely right. I have NO IDEA how I forgot to include Complete Control. It’s being added to the list. 39 now.

“They said we’d be artistically free/When we signed that bit of paper/They meant let’s make a lotsa mon-ee/An worry about it later

Ooh ooh ooh I’ll never understand/Ooh ooh ooh complete control - lemme see your other hand!

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

No more Thor!?!? What a drag. But we did keep all the best defense up. That’s a smart move.

I find it ironic that every time a AAAA pitcher makes a start, Cox depleats the line-up and re-arranges the order. It’s almost as if he doesn’t want them to win.

Villarreal will pitch on Thursday. The line up will be: Pratt, Orr, Pena, Langerhans, Francoeur, Giles, LaRoche and Diaz; in that order.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

On another note… If Cox doesn’t expect these pitchers to last long, who’s going to hit for them now with a smaller bench?

By Steve

August 15, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

DOB always love your stuff, watch out for the typos though. A good writer leaves his readers not questioning a word he says. Also by not making typos its just a cleaner article. This would not BE the first time I’ve suggested the Braves aren’t going to trade Chipper Jones anytime in the foreseeable future, but today’s probably a good time to reiterate.

Mark McGwire.

Keep up the good work buddy.

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

wow, Thorman down, bummer. Hope the kid keeps his head up, and not up his…well, you know. I really do think he has a chance to be a stud, if Braves ever find a place for him.

By MGL

August 15, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

Steve,

Reading your post leaves me with the impression that you are not much of a writer. Sentences two and three are pretty weak. “BE” should not be capitalized. Mark McGwire is not a sentence. A paragraph should be more than one sentence. In other words, lay off DOB, he does an outstanding job here. Most of us could care less about a few typos!!

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Steve, thanks for clarying that for us (ha!). But, bubba, if typos don’t do it for you, you might wilt under the pressure on THIS blog. LOL

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 15, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

I was one of the ones who brought up the idea of batting Diaz leadoff. I totally see the points made for why he should bat 8th. And for the remainder of the year I think he should. However, next season I think it should be considered because forcing Giles to leadoff is not a good thing when he has clearly stated his dislike for it. Giles may have to go to the 8 hole or place LaRoche there. I totally agree it shouldn’t be Frenchy because unless he learns some plate discipline more often than not that will be two certain outs back to back in the lineup.

Tough break for Thorman. I understand Cox’s thinking and it is actually very smart. I’m sure Thorman will be back up by September 1st.

Hope Andruw can go tonight or otherwise we could be in trouble.

By MBATL

August 15, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

mlb.com still shows AJ in center, but based on what DOB reports, which is probably more current, let’s assume he’s out and Langerhans is in center.

With Thorman sent down, who is the backup at 1st? Orr? And who’s the 4th OF? Guess AJ can play if he has to, but that’s only a guess.

Pretty thin lineup tonight. Let’s hope Cormier can step up and make it a non-issue.

By dave williams

August 15, 2006 06:19 PM | Link to this

Just one question for you DOB, with Thorman now unfairly and stupidly heading to Richmond, who’s going to play first base if something happens to LaRoche, Diaz possibly. If Bobby wanted to keep 13 pitchers, he should have kept Thorman and sent down Orr, the Bench now absolutely sucks.

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

Andruw, Man this is the time you play through some pain. Bobby giving Renteria a day off in the middle of August? Wow what in the hell is going on here DOB. Aren’t we trying to play catch up here. Hey we may very well win tonight and I hope so but Cormier needs some support and we pull our #2 hitter who is batting over 300. OK somebody rationalize this for me because I just don’t get it.

Thorman being sent down is actually a great move. He is not in Atlanta’s plans for next year and will be trade material without a doubt. He has an upside and should have good trade value. The Braves will bring him back to audition him in front of other teams and scouts. He will be fine.

Let’s keep our fingers crossed fans it is about an hour from game time.

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

Let’s see now, Renteria[.300+] on bench with Pena[.063] starting with slim hopes riding on every game. Chipper even says we need to sweep. Some times I just don’t understand.

By SaltyDog55

August 15, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this

Re: Thorman…couldn’t he rejoin the team before they even leave DC? I see this as maybe, a 2-3 day gig and back with ATL. Then again, will Cormier be needed again soon?

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

Robert, you and others are making a fairly big assumption that Diaz even starts next year, let alone worrying about his place in the order. You’re making a pretty big call based on a relatively few at-bats. I like the guy, but, please don’t tell me he’s gonna be the Betemit replacement for fair-haired boy du jour. If the guy starts for a month, and continues to hit as he’s hitting, OK. Then you might have a basis for thinking he might be an everyday option. But, jeez, you guys are talking as if he’s a lock for Opening Day!

By tvsportscaster

August 15, 2006 06:27 PM | Link to this

Salty Dog, Thorman can’t return to Atlanta for 10 days unless there is an injury..

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 06:28 PM | Link to this

Renteria’s getting a needed day off. The dude’s looked tired at the plate and is in a bit of a slump _ 0 for 16 last four games, .194 average last 18

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

35, Edgar’s bat has been pretty slow last couple of weeks, to my eyes. One day’s as good as another to rest him, I guess, when you gotta win ‘em all anyway.

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 06:33 PM | Link to this

ok guys. Thanks for the input, I’m just real worried bout this.

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this

Dog, rub The Rock, baby! good to see ya…

By MBATL

August 15, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

Well said, scoots, regarding resting Edgar. One could even argue that it’s better to rest guys when you’ve got your weakest pitcher on the mound… but of course I’m sure Cormier is gonna surprise us all tonight.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 06:42 PM | Link to this

MBATL: The back up at 1B is the only issue I could see. We still have Francoeur, Langerhans, Andruw and Diaz in the out field.

Robert: Next year will be an interesting picture. I’d save putting Diaz in leadoff next year until towards the end of spring. I’d imagine a slew of trades will go down. Diaz might not even be here next year. Same with Giles. But who knows.
Right when the offense clicks, the order gets changed. Hope it fires on all pistons tonight.

Tony Pena Jr is an incredible fielder. He’s as good a fielder as Orr is fast. Orr is super-hero fast. He’s a blur on the base paths. And Pena, man that guy can go get ‘em. It’s fun to watch. It reminds me of the early 90’s when we had pitching a defense with a tiny bit of hitting. Now we have hitting and defense and a pitcher.

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

MBATL, yes, Cormier will remind us of Clemens and Pena will remind us of…well, some other “p” player. But hey, they might rise to the occasion and play out of their skulls tonight. Stranger things, etc.

By Johnny Blade

August 15, 2006 06:44 PM | Link to this

This team stinks people. They are 16 games out in their division and would rank no higher than 3rd in any other division in baseball. They would actually be deal last in 2 divisions. Forget the talk as the Braves s*ck.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this

DOB-I just went and listened to my copy of The Clash Greatest Hits. I tried listening in an historical context. What I heard was a bunch of angry youth who wanted to do things differently and did. The problem, I think is one of age. When the Clash came out, I was a married father with a two year old having epileptic seizures. Honestly, I guess I just missed what they were P##sed about.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

Sending Thorman down should give him more frequent playing time as well. Maybe that will get his bat going for when he gets called up. Ironically, he’ll be ready to be called up the next time we play the Nats.

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 06:56 PM | Link to this

cousin journalist sir gentleman jimmy smith, I think I have a solution! When daughter was younger she enjoyed making potholders for me and it seems she still has the loom. All is not lost! Will advise. (Keep fingers crossed that St George’s cross is not lost!)

By MBATL

August 15, 2006 06:56 PM | Link to this

scoots, I didn’t suggest THAT, but we’re about due for one of these young guys to step up and give us a ballgame…. just hoping, I guess but let’s play it out and see what happens. I’ll probably be apologizing for my optimism by the 3rd inning…

Lew, that is funny (with all due respect to your child’s illness). The guys singing probably had nothing to be angry about, but you sure did.

By Snowball's Chance

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

Lew, I hear you. I think a lot of us go back to late teenage to early twenties for music that is important to us. I had a good time with music until my late twenties when family and work came first. Getting to middle age is like being a teenager with more money. I am getting back into music.

By ncscoots

August 15, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this

MBATL…LOL, buddy. It’s hard to use irony without voice inflection! Let’s hope Lance brought his lucky puka shells and surfs large, big dude.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

Snowball’s chance. You got that right, which is why I had a copy of The Clash-The singles. I give it all a try. Imean, don’t tell Dave, but I have Steve Earle in my collection, too. Yes, Dave, the collection has more than Night Ranger. Oh, by the way, the kid is now 27 and married and got over the seizures by the time he was 4. I never really got into the Clash, though. Led Zep 1 was one of the most influential albums in my experience. I understood what they were p##sed about. They wanted more sex and drugs.

By TennesseePaul

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

The guys singing probably had nothing to be angry about

Very much like Zack De La Rocha, born a reared in Irvine California. Upper middle class society with peaceful safe streets, solid schools and all the opportunity in the world. “Rollin’ down Rodeo with a shotgun…” I liked rage against the machine. Great rock riffs, good down beats, tough lyrics. But comical when juxtaposed with their upbringing. It always amuses me when Communists make a fortune with entrepreneurial creativity in America while blasting how awful it is to be able to do just that. Oxymoronic. But entertaining nonetheless.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul- Let’s hear it for angst and angry youth. They seem to be recurrent in rock and roll. Ain’t it great?

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 07:14 PM | Link to this

Whooop, typo. It’s OK, I caught it Steve…
Should read: Very much like Zack De La Rocha, born and reared in Irvine California.

By MBATL

August 15, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this

I love the smell of rosin in the evening.

By TennesseePaul

August 15, 2006 07:18 PM | Link to this

Lew: Yes indeed. Played in many rock bands in my day. They softened up more and more the older I got. Something about harmonies and melodies that appealed to me more with each passing year. Prior to that it was mainly about drugs and thrashing out wicked solos on my ax while jumping around and off of everything I could.

By Snowball's Chance

August 15, 2006 07:19 PM | Link to this

The Who would like to forget ” I hope I die ‘fore I get old “.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this

I think Asphalt Ballet put it as accurately as anyone “And it just keeps getting worse - And it feels like hell on earth - The angry youth-Don’t want to be the President-The angry youth-Don’t want to be the King - When it comes to the truth It don’t mean nothing, Cause nothing means everything to me.” Ah to be young again-Ah to have hair that grows again. The humanity!

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

loom? that’s a big bird, right? now, where is andruw? hurt? hurt! oh, the humanity! get one jones back and the other goes down. and where is renteria? who is this “p” player in his place? and diaz, he is now batting second and laroche cleanup. oh, the humanity! the braves scored 10 runs last night and the lineup is completely changed! as an aside … that wasn’t thorman that spiked andruw was it? think bobby can’t take a joke?

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! frank robinson is playing small ball against the braves! who is covering first? uh, oh!

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this

Pedro Astacio throwing a no-hitter… OH THE HUMANITY!

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this

MBATL You said: “but we’re about due for one of these young guys to step up and give us a ballgame…. just hoping, I guess but let’s play it out and see what happens. I’ll probably be apologizing for my optimism by the 3rd inning

HAHA!!! Good call on that one, this inning is going to get ugly…

By DonCoburleone

August 15, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this

An .059 batting average and he’s making errors too??? Pena can kiss my p***s!

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

Can’t ANY OTHER STARTER besides JS, the good TH & sometimes CJ get hitters out? Anyone?

If this is the future of the Braves pitchers, the future is indeed bleak.

Come on offense, looks like your gonna need 10 again.

Geaux Braves!!

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this

Oh, sorry offense, didn’t realize you were facing Bob Gibson, I thought you were facing a guy who is 2-2 with a 5.14 ERA. My bad.

By MBATL

August 15, 2006 07:55 PM | Link to this

I’d like to see Cormier hang in there. He hasn’t pitched badly; 2 errors, and maybe 2 hits to the outfield. He needs to keep his sh&t together and keep the game within reach.

By parks

August 15, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

watching on mlb.gameday any reason why we can’t hit this bum? Is he just sharper than norm today? we usually crush this guy

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

I recant my 7:51 post, Cormier has pitched well, the two errors really hurt. WTG Cormier.

Geaux Braves!!

By bobbo

August 15, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

If Chipper Jones is right

” that we need to win every game “

Why are Andruw and Renteria sitting , is the any reason Pena is even in the majors the guy cant hit at all, and apparently cant field , good time to take the night off braves just as you have built some pathetic momentum

By dadgum

August 15, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is going for the hook on Cormier. He should be going for the hook on himself. Simply the worst manager move by Cox this year. Put a rookie out there on the mound and totally shake up your lineup in a must win game. Braves have one hit through 5 man oh man! Braves lost this game before the first pitch. McBride now comes in and walks the first batter. OUCH!

By el bravo x

August 15, 2006 08:24 PM | Link to this

5 dos x, nothing to show for it but a buzz. Betimit would have made that play in SS!

By Dr. Z

August 15, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this

Fun with numbers while we wait for the Braves batters to wake up:

The odds that Diaz (who was batting around .333) would get 10 consecutive hits in a given 10 at bats is less than 2 in 100,000.

The odds that Diaz would make 10 consecutive outs in a given 10 at bats is about 1,000 times greater (than making 10 consecutive hits).

The odds of Pedro Astacio throwing a no-hitter through 5 innings is less than 1 in 100.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this

bobbycox is a genius! bobbycox cannot reveal to mere mortal fans his plans for this lineup. trust bobbycox. at the end of this game you will be glad you did. or not. flash! powerful “p” player pete orr is now at bat. watch out - pete orr is fast.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this

put pratt in there and let ‘em all play.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this

No Runs and one hit, One Gawd——-Damn hit after 6 innings, We than lost this…. Let’s take the rubbergame tomorrow…

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this

ok… oK… OK! ! Fell victim to the seeding in your leadoff article, Dave OB.

Have now edited playlist and added an “Artist is The Clash” line.

I have to say though that I only like the ones that are musically oriented (London Calling, SISOSIG, Train In Vain, Rock the Casbah) as opposed to the ones that have primarily lyrical appeal.

Nevertheless I have succumbed once again to decibellian allure.

The dog and cats that had been lollygagging near the doorways outside our rural abode are now in the next county or stuck in trees.

I hope you all are proud of yourselves.

Say Dave… K Street. Don’t forget.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

At least the Mutts are gettin the Snot beat out of them by the Philthies, If that’s any consolation…

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

I am back from the deep south (if anyone cares) and I turn on the tv to see Pete Orr at the plate. He’s currently our best kept secret weapon; if we keep showcasing him he’ll lose trade value!

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this

Time to go to da Gym, Catch U cats later U guys keep Chopp’n maybe we’ll come back…

Oh D.O.B. I’ve have been bumpin a-lot of old R. Kelly Lately, His first CD 12 PLAY Is a Classic, as well as dat Bump and Grind Remix…

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this

Grinch, Whud Up!, Shout Out…

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

Easy There Grinch, I know you is joking about Pete whore, U’s a wild boy, lol

By krath

August 15, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

Anyone actually watching the game is seeing why this isn’t the Braves year. It’s all about concentration and consistency, both marks of championship teams. This team has neither.

A couple of errors, a couple more mental errors (Frenchy has been reading too much of his own press about his arm and refuses to hit the cutoff man the last two nights) You also have a pitcher who has an ERA against us the size of the national debt and he’s pitching a 1 hitter thru six.

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

21 Braves hitters have seen 63 pitches, with my math that 3 pitcher per hitter. Want to know why the Braves have only one hit? Well, re-read the 1st part of this paragraph.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 08:48 PM | Link to this

amber alert journalist jimmy smith is declaring an amber alert for journalist bob. bob has not been seen on this blog in several days and all bloggers should be concerned. if you have information concerning journalist bob please post it for others. lew, please make some missing posters - know what bob looks like? now, baseball … zero runs tonight after 10 last night. baseball is a humbling game.

By Dsquared

August 15, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

Jeff Boreborg and Bob Rashburns really need to stop talking so much about Soriano. He’s a good player, but the announcers need to talk about the players that their core audience tuned in to hear about. Turner Field would be a lot better to go to if they replaced some of their music with some RL Burnside, Black Keys, and Muddy Waters.

By Tonight on TBS

August 15, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

After the game, a special treat for Braves bloggers:

Pi (1998)

Letwan is a genius mathematician who’s built a supercomputer at home and has decoded the secret significance of the digits of the “P” number, Pi. Representatives of the Braves attempt to seduce Letwan with various “P” deserts in order to use his discovery to detect patterns in Pi that can predict the optimal insertion of “P” players into the batting order on any given night.

By krath

August 15, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

Damn TBS….. that’s pretty deep! :)

By Todd A

August 15, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

Great.This team is so wretched that they get dominated by Pedro Astacio.

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 09:01 PM | Link to this

Oops. Oh, yeah… the game.

I think Astacio is one sly devil. He confounds batters now by taking the (expected movement) away. They are always expecting it to move either in or out… up or down… but he absolutely mystifies them by throwing it as straight as a rope. Then he mixes it up, confounding them even more, by sometimes closing his right eye at the release point… sometimes the left. Sometimes he chews the bubblegum in perfect sync with the rhythym of his pitching motion… sometimes not. It is so devious, so sadistic. His mojo must have some otherworldly power behind it.

Those poor guys.

That has to be why TP will NOT look towards the mound. No matter what.

How does Bobby do it?

I bet he had crowder peas with Extra Hot ChowChow for dinner. That’s the only thing that’s ever worked for me, anyway. (More or less, anyway. At least I did survive and live to tell about it. One of these days, I’ll remember enough about it to tell… Anyway, I’m hopeful.)

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

Howdy, T’hawkin’…bring some of those tight gym girls back with ya. Journalist Jimmy, I’m glad to see you survived the last few days without my back-up. If Bob has been asleep in the tub this whole time, I expect he looks rather like a prune.

By Pedro A.

August 15, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

Braves be my beetch.

By geauxbraves2000

August 15, 2006 09:07 PM | Link to this

Well, the automatic loss is out of the way, now maybe Smoltz can right the ship tomorrow.

Geaux Braves!!

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

what a lineup! journalist dob will explain what bobby was thinking after the game … what? game is over? oh, the humanity! what a hurtful loss! one more “p” player could have made the difference.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 15, 2006 09:09 PM | Link to this

Did this team just get 2 hit by Pedro freakin’ Astacio? This season is over!

By Lew

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

Now wasn’t that totally embarrassing? 88 pitches by Pedro #$$@@#$$%% Astacio. I fail to see how it can get much worse than that.

By Letwan

August 15, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

Amazing!

Look at the following sequence (tonights line for the Braves):

000 000 000 022

Note that there are 10 consecutive 0’s, just as Diaz had 10 consecutive hits the other night.

Anyway, the sequence above occurs among the digits of pi immediately following the sequence

20181914914221914

which corresponds to the letters

Traininvain.

So we should have known.

By el bravo x

August 15, 2006 09:14 PM | Link to this

No continuity, in any part of the game!

By tvsportscaster

August 15, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this

This might be the most embarrassing loss the team has had all season long. When you get two-hit and shutout by Pedro Astacio you’re nothing more than a mediocre baseball team. Also good to know that with every game of the maximum importance we trot a 6-man battting order.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 15, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this

Did Giles get hurt or did Bobby just take him out of the game?

By chopthis

August 15, 2006 09:16 PM | Link to this

Conversely, the Braves are 0-3 this season when they do not score.

Numbers. They’re just fascinating.

By el bravo x

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

We were smashed!

By Lew

August 15, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

Grinch- Glad you’re back. Did you kill anyone? Sir Journalist James-Perhaps Journalist Bob, like the mythic Diogenes, went in search of an honest man. Or maybe a number 4 starter. Ma’am, I sure hope you went to bed early tonight. I feel the need to earn demerits. I may need to apologize to Shawn with a W. His a*s-essment of the Braves may be right after all. Pedro #$$%^^&%%$@#@#$ Astacio.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 15, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why Renteria was not in the lineup. I realize he needs a day off but the second Cox found out that Andruw was not going to be able to go he should have inserted Renteria back into the lineup. See, this is the kind of sheer stupidity that brings Bobby criticism. Bobby is a good manager but he does some really stupid things and tonight was a classic example. May I ask why McCann wasn’t in the cleanup spot instead of LaRoche?

They should be more than emabarrassed at this performance. I didn’t see the game but it looked like Cormier really didn’t do that bad. He just got shafted by his defense (Giles and Pena).

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

Welcome home Grinch, you’ve been missed.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 15, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

I hope Andruw was at the very least limping. He had to really be hurt to not be in the lineup at a time when every game counts. Looks Andruw is starting to catch the same bug that some of the people on this blog say Chipper has. I find it funny that this “sore knee” hadn’t been mentioned until today but has been going on for a while. I’m not trying to start any crap, but I am just a little stunned at how minor injuries are keeping guys out of the lineup. And if Andruw is truly hurt to the point he couldn’t play then I will take that as gospel, but as I stated earlier thatn is exactly when Renteria should have been placed back in the lineup.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this

Pedro @##^^^%%$%^%^&&^^%%Astacio. The humiliation is almost complete.

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 09:32 PM | Link to this

Thank you kindly, 1074. Lew, if Bob is in search of an honest man he’s sol, much like a number 4 starter. Our starters are all #2 (with the exception of Smoltz). No, I didn’t kill anyone, but I do have an interesting story to relay. Perhaps later. :-)

By Mr. Fantasy

August 15, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

“Pedro Astacio is a marginal Fantasy option only worth using in NL-only leagues when the matchup is favorable or he faces multiple starts in a scoring period.”

Oh the ignominity!

By 10-7-4

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

Grinch—you can call me 35. It has to do with DOB’s math skills.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this

Grinch-I’ll check mail later. Pedro $##@@#^%&$#Astacio. The humanity. I may commit suicide. Or worse yet, I may go listen to Billy JHoel. Pedro ##@@&^^%*&&$^Astacio. 88 pitches. GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.

By TommyB

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

Hey Chopthis!

Your 9:16 offering is absolutely f******* BRILLIANT!

I have been laughing in some form or another for the past several minutes.

And Letwan, do you count beans for a livin’? If so, what kind(s)?

By MattB

August 15, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

So typical. We get an amazing power display one night, next night we get absolutely nothing. That’s why this team won’t make the playoffs. It’s because we lack consistency.

By Dsquared

August 15, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Cormier pitched better than I thought, the defense hasn’t looked this bad since we had DeRosa at third. Was Giles feeling OK, he definitely did not look like himself tonight? Langerhans looks like he has had trouble picking up the pitch since mid May, too bad he had a good April.

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

I have absolutely no doubt about the hex.

It reminds me of life with my ex. Sometimes when she would enter a room where folks were whoopin’ and hollerin’ and havin’ all kinds of fun… it would just Stop.

Right on a nickel. (Maybe a half dollar.)

It was a sight to behold.

Hey, I think I’m startin’ to remember now…

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

TommyB, if you find Chopthis so humerous it almost makes me wonder if you are another one of his many monikers. He likes to spread himself around, in hopes of garnering praise of any kind, even (actually, especially) negative. Kind of like if you throw enough things against the wall, some of them are bound to stick. He’s been run off his local Mets blog, and chosen for some reason to ensconce himself here. Your praise will likely bring forth a derrogatory song about the Braves by him in the next few hours, to the delight of his fellow Met fans and for some reason, DOB. Oh, well. BTW, everyone, noticed I put a 20 on Giles leading back off again when Chipper returned and nobody took it? Anyone else notice he DIDN’T DO SQUAT FROM THE LEADOFF HOLE? I’m beginning to wonder if Bobby didn’t actually pass on several years ago and he’s some sort of cyborg now who’s pre-programmed to do the most stubborn and predictable things possible.

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

OK. That’s enough rememberin’.

Night-night, everyone.

PS - Chipper did say “every stinkin’ game.” Maybe this one smelled pretty good.

PPS - Dave, you be careful.

By The Grinch

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

Lew, from here on out the man will be formally re-christened Pedro #@$#@%%$#@ Astacio.

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

you know, I don’t mind the guys doing the announcing on Turner South too terribly bad,they are not the worst I have ever heard.However when Torborg tried to ‘spin’ what Chipper had said, I came unglued. Chipper said “we need to win them all” refering to the Nationals and Marlins series. Then Torborg say’s “he didn’t mean they had to win them all’. I know, and Chipper knows that Yogi was right—It ain’t over till it’s over” and until they are mathematically eliminated there is still a chance. Chipper was saying these games against this weak competition, at this critical point was essential for us to win. He was saying “we need to win them all”.

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 10:26 PM | Link to this

Hey Grinch,

Dang. I was almost asleep. OK. I’ll write with the blue light.

My Great Great Great Grandmother used to write things on teacups. One thing that comes to mind is “It’s awfully hard to prove a negative.”

Or maybe it was “disprove a negative.” I can’t be sure ‘cause it’s been so long. But anyway, I am really grateful for the opportunity to not use it.

Say… are things in Whoville lookin’ any better these days?

Do you really like Christmas now?

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:29 PM | Link to this

35, this is an unusual set of circumstances for this team and this town, and it brings out the worst in many. I don’t have anything against those two either, but there should be NO BRAVES GAMES anywhere but TBS with Skip, Don, Joe and Pete, unless it’s a nationally televised one on ESPN or something. This is not a good thing.

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:31 PM | Link to this

TommyB, I’m the wrong person to ask about Christmas…:-)

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

Although the Whos DO have some good hash…

By TommyB

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

Grinch,

I take it the story isn’t true, then? ?

Wheweee! There goes another one of my bubbles a’burstin’.

I really liked the part where you turned over a new leaf and put all the presents back under the tree, just in time.

I think I’ll just keep on believin’ that version, if it’s alright with you.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Don’t worry Grinch, I’ll be kickin it with the Sorostitutes this weekend for the Back to School party, It’s Goin Down, Think I’m Gonna wear my Authentic Braves Jersey, The Broads just dig it…

By The Grinch

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

The story had to be politically correct for hollywood; the original ending was gruesome. However, you have my permission to believe whatever you please; I’m not completely without compassion.

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 10:42 PM | Link to this

I like my hash with a couple of sunny-side eggs on top, pre-buttered toast, and a tumbler of iced Patron.

Hey, that’s a nice idea!

No, it’s too late and I just got out of the doghouse. I better go back to bed.

By 10-7-4

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

Grinch I hate it when ESPN does the Braves games. I used to love ESPN-Rich Eisen,Charlie Steiner,Kenny Mane,most except Olberman and Stuart Scott. The only one ESPN has had lately that I cared to watch was Peter Gammons. I feel like Joe Morgan, Linda Cohn and a few others seem to dislike Atlanta—Not just the Braves, the city and everything in it. I even prefer Turner South and SportsSouth.

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

T, you ain’t gonna be like Mccaunahey(?) in that movie where he’s like 35 and still hangin’ around the diner tryin’ to pick up high school girls, are you? Not that there’s anything wrong with that…actually you said sorrostitutes; my bad. What school did you go to? Or are you faking it? :-)

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

10-7-4, I hate the Braves games on Fox as well as ESPN.

Blow Buck, and Tim McCarver are Horrible, I dunno why but I can tolerate Blow Buck when he does the Football games…

I’m Tired of Miller and Morgan, they need to switch it up, Put The Hawk and DJ Or someone else…

The ESPN Games that come on during the Week are worse, I Dunno why but we always get stuck wit Either Rick SUCKCliffe, Steve Phillips, or the worse one of dem all Jeff Brantley, U guys are lucky U can catch the games on Turner South

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Hi 35,

You’re not alone. Add Jon Miller to the mix. Gammons is truly a deserving HOF’er, isn’t he?

Say, if you have DirecTV, this year about half of the TurnerSouth or FSS Braves games appear also in HD on either 94, 95, or 96. It is SO nice to see the detail on Bobby’s face as he gets thrown out of a game.

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

35, I don’t care for their announcing, either; it just usually means we’re doing well to be on there. I’m a purist; a Dawg’s game ain’t a Dawg’s game without Munson, but we can’t always have our hash and eat it too.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

While were at it, I can’t stand Stuart Scott or Linda Cohn, She’s a milf but the 2 of them are annoying as hell…

I think Stephen A. Smith, Cold Pizza, and PTI are the only shows worth watching on that crappy network, and I might add the Little League World Series…

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

THawkn,

Thank you for bringing Buck into the discussion.

For whatever reason, I could not stand the guy from the first time I saw him. He always seems so contrived. And when the camera is on him, he always seems so aware of it. He’s the opposite of natural and off the cuff.

His dad was a real class act, though.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

Grinch, I’m Still in school

Sorostitutes, rule, Give them a little Drank and It’s goin down…

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Fixin’ to go practice guitar for a bit; I’ll check back shortly. Glad to know you, TommyB. T, you know I was just messin with you, right?

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this

You guys are too young, but the most fun I had watching baseball on tv was at the very end if Dizzy Dean’s career. He was truly a hoot.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

Yea Grinch, I told you that U’s a wild boy…

Oh yea, Why da Hell was Thorman sent down and Pete Orr is still here?

And Brian Jordan Is set to comeback No offense to B.J. He’s my boy, but its time to hang em up….

I bet He and Deion kick it a-lot…

By TommyB

August 15, 2006 11:03 PM | Link to this

Same here, Grinch.

Here’s a tip.

When you run into somethin’ you can’t play, but you really really want to be able to do it. Try it and then leave it alone for a few days.

Magic usually happens and you can then play it, no sweat.

Over and out.

By Tomahawkin

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

Most fun I had watching baseball was 91-96, Before the curse of Jim Leyritz, and back when we had guys like David Justice, who gave a damn, weather or not they won or lost a game

This team desperately needs a vocal leader, who ain’t afraid to call out anyone who is not pulling their weight, and I can name at least 3 or 4 guys on this team that has fell into that criteria this year…

By TommyB

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

35,

My dad used to watch ‘ole Diz at Sportsman’s park.

I never had the pleaseure but I sure loved the movie (forget the title). Didn’t Dan Dailey plan Diz?

Night all…

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

I really used to like watching the Cubs during the daytime when They’re was nothing but soap operas on, Harry Caray, and Steve Stone were a classic duo in da booth…

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this

T’Hawk, just curious! What are you studying in school? :-))

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

The Hangin Slider that Galarraga Hit off Kevin Brown into the Football Seats was classic

My College used to play their Football Games at Pro Player Stadium, and that Place is Huge, especially when its empty…

I also Saw the Shot Mike Piazza hit down there that Landed above the Don Shula Sign in left center, that was a long blast f-k-n incredible, thats what fans pay to see not 3-1 pitcher duals, Thats why the NFL Kicks baseball’s a-s-s in terms of ratings and along wit the fact that football season is only 16 games per team

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 11:20 PM | Link to this

Whoooo, I just had some fun! I wheeled my Marshall out onto the front porch and played Dimbag Darrell’s “Red light turning green” through both high gain channels and a DOD “Thrash Master” pedal. I hate my neighbor, but not as much as he hates me. Hee-hee! Good advice, Tommy; I’m working on trying to play the hard version of “Canon in D” I saw on Wimp.com; check it out if you haven’t already seen it. This little 14 year old kid can justa about blow me off the map (or will be able to in a few years), and I’ve been playing for 21 years. T’hawk; I’ve been going to college on and off since ‘90, and I’m still working on my master’s thesis. No shame in that game. 35, I don’t remember actually watching him play, but despite my age I have a surprising repetoire of old memories/images. I am a historian by nature, born in the wrong place and time. Biography is my forte.

By David O'Brien

August 15, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

Grinch, I don’t praise derogatory songs about the Braves. If I did, I must’ve been so tired I didn’t actually read the lyrics. My only explanation.

You’re saying Chopthis is a Mets fan? I did not know that. Seemed cool enough to me. I need to start being more careful.

I’m gonna go catch the subway back to my hotel before it stops at midnight. Not a good neighborhood out here at RFK, either.

I need the Guns of Brixton with me.

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

I was doing Architecture, Now i’m going 4 political Science/ Real Estate

In plan to be an urban planner, and correct the dumb mistakes, that developers made decades ago at our expense…

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

TommyB—Yeah Dan Daily did. Here is an old Diz story—One Saturday during a telecast from Philadelphia, Ole Diz, and Pee Wee Reese are in the middle of a boring game. It’s cold and rainy, and between innings the camera pans across the outfield bleachers and there is a young couple with some sort of tarp or large pancho type thing.They go underneath it and then emerge in a few seconds. Every few innings the camerman goes back to them and they continue to go underneath and them emerge. In about the 7th inning or so, Ole Diz says “I think I got it figured out Pee Wee”.Pee Wee says, “how’s that Diz”. Ole Diz says “I think he’s kissing her on the strikes, and she’s kissing him on the balls’. There was about a 3 or 4 minute period before anyone said anything. All you could hear was the muffled sound like someone holding paper over the mike. Yep Ole Diz was a classic.

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this

T, I agree; BJ was the man(football and baseball), he’s just aged out. And, much as I love baseball, many a relationship between me and my family (and lord KNOWS how many with various women) have been ruined by my love of football. DO NOT GET IN BETWEEN ME AND THE TV for the next few months. I don’t care if it’s pre-season, the Luisiana school of bartending, or what. If they line up 11-on-11 I’m there. Hey, CL! Can’t help but wonder how long you’ve known I was here and didn’t say anything….:-(

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this

I’ve seen the area outside RFK On tv and it looks like it sucks

I’m glad ESPN Has gotten of the Soriano lovefest, Dat shyt was making me crazy Ese

By Tomahawkin

August 15, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this

at least the Phillies wiped the floor wit the Mutts tonite, again, where’s that Douchebag Mutts fan at, who’s only on here when they are going good…?

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

Hey, Grinch! I had just stopped in a few minutes ago to catch the drift on the posts before turning in. How are you doing?

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

35 can post a story like that and someone gets upset with jimmy smith about bobbydews clipping the toenails of bobbycox? 35, you are gonna get some demerits from carolina lady for this. ol’ diz used to advertise falstaff beer and young jimmy smith thought jimmy smith should try some falstaff. was worse tasting than absorbine jr! even the old journaist will not drink falstaff beer.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 11:33 PM | Link to this

She’s an uptown girl livin in her uptown world…

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

Hey, Jimmy! Hope you’re well tonight! Dizzy Dean was one for the ages! Haven’t seen that movie in many years; wish it would rerun somewhere!

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, he does seem pretty cool most of the time; that’s how he gets by. If you spend too much time here (like me) especially at night, you’ll notice he’s actually a dick of the highest order, when you learn the three or four other names he writes under (most noteably “Hop on Chop.”). No biggie, I’m an a*s myself; but at least I’m straightforward about it. Just thought I’d clue you in. Be careful on the subway, bro; I’ve been there and they ain’t much fun.

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Does anybody know how to get in touch with Bob? I really getting worried now!

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 11:37 PM | Link to this

Sir journalist Jimmy Smith—it’s only a story about ‘foot in mouth’ disease. Ole Diz didn’t know what he had said that got such a reaction. That’s the beauty of it. Sorry Carolina Lady, didn’t know you were present.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 11:37 PM | Link to this

Catholic girls start much too late. Damn it I can’t keep the potatoes lit. But it’s still rocka nand roll to me.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 15, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

someone tell dob that ‘lil wayne was arrested today at atlantic station (ajc). member of the carter family. dob probably has cd’s. not sure if ‘lil wayne has a cowboy hat.

By The Grinch

August 15, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

CL, I WAS doing fine until Lew put Billy #$@%%$# Joel in my head. Curse you, Lew; what have I done to you lately? 35, great story; I’ll write it down. It’s a little off my current subject (I’m working on a biography of Samuel Colt) but I have an “odds and ends” file it will do nicely in.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 15, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

DOB, what’s up with these boys? They look like world beaters one night and the next get two hit by a 36 year old reject pitcher. If he can pitch this good, why didn’t JS pick him up. How much could he possibly be making? $20 a start. I want someone to give me a reasonable intelligent explanation as to why another starter has not been obtained for the stretch run, if JS and Cox really think this team can make the playoofs. If they don’t think this team can make the playoffs, then they need to get some balls and say so. All us Braves fans would respect them a lot more for it. We have 14 straight years of divsion titles, so one off year won’t kill us. But, this false hope crap is just plain wrong. Don’t p**s in my ear and tell me its raining.

I think JS and Cox are the best in the business but I have to say that right now I am less than pleased with the way they are treating this team. If you really think a run can be made here in the last six weeks then get off your a** and use the rest of the available funds on a waiver wire deal for a pitcher. Better yet, why was one not obtained at the deadline? If you secretly feel this team cannot make the playoffs, then publicly say so admit defeat and start getting a look at the young kids so you can see what they can do.

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

Whew, 35, you were just about to get demerits! (I had heard that story and loved his innocence. Oh, that that should prevail today.)

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

Lady- how is Mom.

By Lew

August 15, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

Pedro##$$^^%$#*&#$Astacio. In our Italian restaurant.

By The Grinch

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

Lew, excellent potatoes aquired from south Ga; makes for a happy Grinch! Not that you’re forgiven for Joel…

By The Grinch

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

The taters are making me want to play; I’ll check back shortly. I WILL master this piece.

By journalist sir jimmy smith, gentleman

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

carolina lady! dob is about to enter the subway and it sounds as if dob is alone. that means the old journalist is not there for protection. the old journalist carries a worn paring knife in his pocket to cut the occassional cheese (grinch can take that one) so he provides some security on the subway. let’s pray for dob until he emerges at his hotel - probably the madison. nothing is too good for dob when on the road covering the braves. imagine that fine old hotel rocking with country music hits from “lil wayne and the carter family.

By Carolina Lady

August 15, 2006 11:52 PM | Link to this

Thanks for asking, 35. Doing sorta OK. Another appointment tomorrow and yet another Thursday (endoscopy to stretch out the esophagus which is now too restricted.) Years ago she had 80% of her stomach removed and a band of scar tissue continually builds up somewhere in there and has to be loosened. When it gets like it is right now, she can barely swallow and can only swallow smooth foods. At times the constriction prevents food from going down so naturally it’s gonna come back up. Makes dining interesting….. anyhhow, we had this same proceedure done several years back and she did well afterward for quite a while.

The other problems are still being evaluated. Her age and general condition preclude surgery other than the little “band aid” variety, so some things are being juggled with that in mind.

And I’m pooped! I was sitting here, too tired to go to bed, and thought I’d check in and see what was going on in DOBland. You guys never fail to make me feel better! Thanks!! :-))

By Lew

August 15, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

I was driven to it. I deny any responsibility whatsoever. I watched Randy Johnson pitch a perfect game against the Braves and took it like a man, but this is more than any Braves fan should ever be subjected to. Pedro#$$#@*&&%^&$#Astacio. The humanity.

By Wilson Betemit

August 15, 2006 11:54 PM | Link to this

This offseason is a perfect time to trade Chipper — he can’t stay healthy, he’s making $15 million, and I would much rather have Andruw for 10 more years than Chipper for 4 or 5 more. If we can’t afford to keep Chipper and Andruw, trade Chipper and get some starting pitching and a leadoff hitter.

By chopthis

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

You seem all green with envy tonight, Grinchy. I and my 17 other blog personalities are all pretty disppointed in your attitude.

Let’s see if we can make you feel better. Each and evry one of your 862 posts tonight were more clever and witty than any of mine. You’re the master of mega-quality AND quantity.

And now I’d like to sing a little song for you:

“Meet the Mets,

Meet the Mets,

Step right up and greet the Mets!

Bring your kiddies,

Bring your wife (or in your case, Grinch, your whore du jour);

Guaranteed to have the time of your life.

Because the Mets are really sockin’ the ball;

Knocking those home runs over the wall!

East side,

West side,

Everybody’d coming down

To meet the M-E-T-S Mets of New York town!”

Ya gotta believe!

By Carolina Lady

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

Jimmy, much prayer will offered for DOB! I suggested he sign up for the DCPD ‘Ride Along’ program for his night travels on this trip.

BTW, it’s a little difficult to weve with a bum thumb but I’m making progress! I just have to figure out which threads go where.

By 10-7-4

August 15, 2006 11:58 PM | Link to this

Upon re-reading some entries I beieve there is a misunderstanding I probably was not clear. I never saw Dizzy Dean play. I only watched him as a 10 year old at the very end of his broadcasting career. He retired before 1940, geez, I’m not that old.

By TheSouthernJackAssRadioPersonalityGoneHayWireSavant_RR

August 16, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this

So how many homers did uh…ummmmmm…”Homer” Jones smash tonite??

By Lew

August 16, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this

Evening Ma’am-Nothing quite like a touch of reality to bring us back, is there. You really should get some sleep. You can’t afford to wear yourself down, too much. Should we really be worried about Bob? We thought he might be like Diogenes and be searching for an honest man. Grinch doesn’t think there are any more. Do you think he might be in the subway looking for DOB?

By journalist jimmy smith

August 16, 2006 12:03 AM | Link to this

“man i miss my dogs …” this ‘lil wayne -carter family song is a light, whimsical buffet of solid country music. if you don’t have this cd you should visit tower and look for it. not mama maybelle - but carter just the same - sure to be a dob favorite.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 12:05 AM | Link to this

35-Are you sure Dizzy Dean was only ten at the end of his broadcasting career? You been talking to Clint again?

By Carolina Lady

August 16, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this

Hey, Lew! Yes, I should be sawing logs right now! :-)) I’d not yet recovered from my own health problems when all this came up with mother, so I’m kinda treading on thin ice right now. But I know there have been times when you’re just so tired that you can’t go to sleep; that’s sorta where I am tonight. And I’m gonna hate it when that little clock goes off in the morning! :-))

Hope you and yours are well!

I truly am getting worried about Bob. Not even he can sleep this long! He has briefly mentioned some health problems on occasion, so I’m honestly concerned about his absence.

A few more minutes and I think I’ll turn off the lights and see if sleep will finally come!

By MEB

August 16, 2006 12:11 AM | Link to this

Having returned from work, knowing the results of the game, I am now unbelievably watching this nightmare on tape. Courmier is pitching as well as I hoped but did we leave our bats and gloves in the hotel. Our lineup tonight looks like a spring training split squad game. Oh, I can’t watch any more.

Pedro #$&!#@*&%! Astacio. Oh, the humanity!

By journalist jimmy smith

August 16, 2006 12:14 AM | Link to this

carolina lady, if you are visiting so many doctors you must have one look at your thumb! journalist jimmy smith will never forget when mama lilly tumusiime let a thumb injury go a little too long before the witch doctor was summoned. her condition is still referred to as tumusiimethumb. not pretty. remember that a loom can be loquacious and will prefer to nest near water.

By Carolina Lady

August 16, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this

jimmy, we’ve visited a urologist, a surgeon, a gastroentorologist, and an ‘imaging specialist’. Not a one of them qualified for thumbs! :-))

By Carolina Lady

August 16, 2006 12:19 AM | Link to this

Now jimmy, I know where a loom likes to nest! I’m not stuppie! Or maybe I am tonight! :-)))

By journalist jimmy smith

August 16, 2006 12:23 AM | Link to this

yes, carolina lady, jimmy smith knows you specialize in birds but journalist just felt the need to clary. journalist has did that too much lately and now has only two things to say: it is late, journalist is tired, and journalist must go to bed. g’night all.

By Carolina Lady

August 16, 2006 12:24 AM | Link to this

With a smile and chuckle, this lady will follow suit! Thanks for much needed smiles!

‘Night, all!

By Deacon Jones

August 16, 2006 12:24 AM | Link to this

Chipper Jones was overheard telling Booger Cox about the first time that he ever got a piece of tail. “Ummmm uh, yea Bobby”, Chipper says, “had the old girl out behind the uhhhhhhh corncrib just puttin’ the umm old cob to her. Just bout time for me to get a ummm uh uh uh ummmmmmm, nut, her mom walked around the corner and caught us.” “What did she say for dadgum golly gee goodness sakes?”, says Boog. Chipper, “well, uh umm, she said Bah ah ah ah ah ahhhhhhhh!!!……..GO PHILLIES!!!……..

By Head Coach

August 16, 2006 12:28 AM | Link to this

Gee , where is the bandwagon tonight ?

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 12:58 AM | Link to this

MBATL, just went back and read some earlier posts, noticed yours on Strummer, Mick Jones, et al.

Mick started Big Audio Dynamite, but not General Public. That was Ranking Roger and Rick Wakeling, from the great band English Beat, who started General Public after ending English Beat.

And while General Public had some big hits, including Tenderness, I shake my head and wag my finger ala Steven Colbert at them for ending English Beat, a far, far superior band. A very great ska band. I can remember cranking that stuff in my dorm room, freshman year, like it was yesterday…

Ahh, college. I want to be 19 again … but just for a few days.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 01:19 AM | Link to this

Steve, you wrote at 5:51 p.m.:

DOB always love your stuff, watch out for the typos though. A good writer leaves his readers not questioning a word he says. Also by not making typos its just a cleaner article.

MY REPLY: I’ve got something you can watch, and it ain’t typos.

Kidding, kidding, SteveO.

But seriously, as I’ve written 738 times: It’s a blog, man. A blog. Not a published story. It’s written on the fly, today’s as I was dressing and running late to get to the ballpark, AFTER I’d done my research and stats and the like for my actual stories for tomorrow’s paper and ondeck box, etc.

There’s no copy editing for the blog, and on days like today I don’t even re-read it. Typos are not a big deal on the blog. They just aren’t. I think most folks here would rather me spend ever bit of time that I do spend on it, writing and cramming as much info as possible in, rather than spending that time reading it a second time and copy editing, etc.

Oh, and BTW: You should have used an apostrophe in the word “its,” my grammar-intensive friend.

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 01:24 AM | Link to this

I am back from mastering some kick a*s minor pentatonic scales. Interesting “Chop This, Hop on Chop and whetever the hell you style yourself toninght. Notice, DOB, it’s a derrogatory song about the Braves (as per usual). Notice, also, I’ve been accusing of putting up 862 posts tonight. If it were looked back upon, it would likely be closer two 20 or so max, under one name and representing myself other than the mutts and a guy who’s SO hard up he spends litteraly(when you consider his monikers) roughly 20 hours out of 24 here. 1000 miles away. I can’t even insult you anymore, hoppy/choppy, ‘cause you’re so sad I can only feel sorry instead. Travelling to another part of the enemy’s country to try to make friends…Damn, bro. I have a friend who can hook you up at a homeless shelter.

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 01:37 AM | Link to this

Choppy, Started to take your mom to the game as my “whore du jour,” especially with our kids, but then I realized I might not be properly recognized. She has, after all, quite a number of “Regular Dates,” and I didn’t want to embarrass you if we bumped into each 0ther. I am a gentleman, after all.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 01:38 AM | Link to this

TommyB, your posts amuse and entertain. Very nice.

The visual of cats and other animals running as you crank Eerle and the Mighty Clash does it for me. I’m into that imagery.

OK, remind me of the bar you mentioned last night. I’ll go tomorrow night. Get this _ I’m staying in a hotel on K _ 12th and K.

Also, you’re right about Astacio. Braves usually pound that geezer, but he was absolutely on tonight. For Bobby Cox to compare his performance to Bobby’s fave Maddux … well, Bobby usually is reluctant as hell to praise the opposing pitcher to that degree, but he did tonight.

Astacio threw just 23 balls in 89 pitches. Maddux-ian, indeed.

CHOPTHIS, nice song. But you must have edited out the line about Mets who date multiple 19-year-olds…

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 01:41 AM | Link to this

11:56, DOB, and that’a one of about 15 in the last 7 or 8 days, often checking me ruthlessly in the process.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 01:43 AM | Link to this

tvsportscaster, you wrote that this must’ve been the most embarrassing loss of the season.

My friend, if only that were so. If only that were so.

I envy you if you’ve not witnessed any worse this year than tonight’s tepid display.

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this

Not that I can’t handle myself, mind you, just sayin. Listening to Gordan Lightfoot’s “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” Good, haunting stuff.

By Head Coach

August 16, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

Hers is a little consolation prediction for the Braves nation. The Mets are by far the best N.L. team and should they play up to their ability in the postseason they will reach the World Series and the team they play from the A.L. is going to beat their freaking brains out because whoever fights through the A.L. postseason dogfight( Yankees, Redsox , Whitesox , Tigers , Twins ) will be unbeatable in the World Series. I’m picking the Whitesox to repeat And as usual Coach is way ahead of the curve , Orel Hershiser are you listening , lol.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

Gotta keep it clean, Dave.

Just trying to live down to the Green One’s expectations. He’s one testy troll tonight.

By the way, Dave, he’s also very jealous of our free-and-easy, give-and-take relationship. He’ll be tearing you down next.

“Oldboy” wasn’t at the Movie Gallery I visited today, so I watched my DVD of “The Last Picture Show” instead. Astounding acting, great script and direction, stark cinematography and Hank and Lefty all over the soundtrack. Strong contender for my all-time favorite movie.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 01:47 AM | Link to this

10-7-4, {I must a missed the 35 blog} glad to hear someone bring up Dizzy Dean. I must of been 10 -12 in those years.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 01:51 AM | Link to this

But Coach,

You said about a month ago that you hate Leyland’s guts and the Tigers would be proven to be pretenders, not contenders. Now you list them among a handful of possibles for a world title.

How does a man of your acumen explain this discrepancy?

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 01:55 AM | Link to this

It was also Cybil Shepard’s only full-frontal nude scene. However, When Dave crashes out you’ll assume your true colors. You’d make a good secret agent. Evidence is already here, just got to be gone through. I’ll do the legwork for ya Dave, when he checked the crap out of you for your writing skills, then spent the following two weeks trying to ingratiate himself with you musically. I’m not trying to kiss you a*s, I’m just trying to turn you on to a sneaky, unscrupulous M-f$%#$@. No biggie.

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 02:01 AM | Link to this

Fixin to slip off; check back in a bit.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:06 AM | Link to this

Grinch, that’s strange, you mentioned Lightfoot. I had Gord’s Gold on my CD player a few nights last week. “Sundown” and “If You Could Read My Mind” and “Carefree Highway” … good stuff.

Cash’s version of “If You Could Read My Mind” is what inspired me to dig up the Lightfoot. Have you heard the Cash version, off the CD released a few weeks ago? Just incredibly powerful, the pained, dying voice.

These were the last songs John recorded before he died, the ones on this CD. Rick Rubin had a sound tech guy on call at all hours, whenever John wanted to record. They built a little studio at his house and that’s where he did those final CDs.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 02:07 AM | Link to this

Thanks for not defending my honor, Dave. That would send Grinch over the edge for certain.

Dave remembers as well as I do how rocky our relationship started out. It took Steve Earle and Johnny Cash to dissolve our discord and bring us together. Don’t try now to sever our bond, Grinch — it will easily withstand the full force of your jealousy and rage.

Stand beside me here in cyberspace, Dave, and never fear. Love will always triumph over hate.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 02:08 AM | Link to this

DOB, Thanks for the head’s up on John Doe. I went back and listened to X live at the Whiskey and thought he sure sounds like Dave Alvin. Turns out Dave was a member of X for a short while. Just ordered ” Forever hasn’t happened yet”. John Doe with Dave Alvin On some cuts. It also has Neko Case who I have heard of but not heard.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:12 AM | Link to this

I am eager to get your review of Oldboy, dammit. Because I want to hear the first person who rents and watches it and honestly doesn’t think it’s incredible. So freakin’ intense and edgy. I love that genre of flick. The fight scenes, by the way, will remind you a lot of Kill Bill, the one-against-an-army configuration. Only Oldboy’s fighting with his hands, just beating the crap out of these dudes, and it actually looks believable.

Last Picture Show … yes, a great one. What a story, so well told.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 02:17 AM | Link to this

The Braves are entertaining but a team cannot compete without a somewhat crazed owner worth at least a billion. I was watching Houston/Cubs on WGN Tonight. It’s the 15th inning and the owner is in his seat behind home plate. He is a fan. Corporate owners don’t work.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 02:18 AM | Link to this

Well, you could mail me your copy. Or I’ll find it eventually. There’s lots of other video stores.

But I won’t abide subtitles. That’s likely to complicate things.

Nothin’s been the same on this blog since Sam the Lion died.

Strike up some Hank.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:21 AM | Link to this

That Live at the Whiskey CD is a killer, man. Love it.

The new Doe CD you ordered is some of his best work, I think. All those artists who sit in with him perfectly complement his work and play off each other extremely well.

Neko Case … dude, that’s The Girl. She is absolutely it. Gorgeous and amazing voice. But I don’t want to force the bloggers to read more about my intense crush on her and Kelly Hogan. The divine Ms. Hogan sang background for the beautiful, golden-voiced lass when Neko played the Variety Playhouse a few months back. It was an unforgettable show.

Neko is Patsy Cline reincarnated, with a little alt-country rock edge.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 02:22 AM | Link to this

Dodgers win AGAIN!

Think Blue, baby.

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 02:27 AM | Link to this

Sundown is good stuff, Dave…I too have been following Cash most of my life. I haven’t yet aquired the last alblum; I got stuck at “Hurt.” Notice Hoppy’s fawning next to you; he’ll hit you anytime you show a weak spot. “Love will defeat hate,” indeed. Funny, though, you’ve put forth some of the ugliest language and innuendo that any of us have ever seen, yet you preach peace under the right circumstances. I’m thinking you’re a male version of borderline personality disorder. In fact, I’m sure of it. Going to bed momentarily, but work at coming up with reasons to defend yourself, and I’ll just whip out the DSM-IV to refute whetever you may have coming. Though I don’t think you’ll have much coming, as you know you’ve been sniffed out and will go hit a D’backs blog now. Buh-bye!

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:27 AM | Link to this

Chopthis, I don’t own Oldboy. rented it at Yellow-and-blue Gargantuan Video Rental Chain story. But it was so good, I almost kept it and just had ‘em bill me for buying it.

You’ve GOT to watch it with subtitles. The guy who does the dubbed English version sounds like a doofus. After abaout 30 seconds, I switched it to subtitles and soon was quite pleased that I did.

OK, i’m out. Fading fast now. No Hank with me on this trip. Gonna throw in Waits’ Big Time and drift off…

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 02:30 AM | Link to this

Grinch, I just listened to a new Gordon Lightfoot CD. He was looking poorly. He survived an aneurysm. I saw him live years ago and he was great. Sundown was a good song and I have heard it was written about the woman who supplied Belucci with his last hit.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:30 AM | Link to this

As you can tell from that last post, i’m nodding off at keyboard. meant video “store” not “story.”

TommyB, don’t forget to give me name of that place on K Street.

later, citizens.

By The Grinch

August 16, 2006 02:33 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure about the background, but the music and the memories are great. It’s sandwitch time.

By Head Coach

August 16, 2006 02:48 AM | Link to this

Chopthis , the Tigers have the best record in the majors , I cant ignore that fact. Yes , I dispise Jimmy Leyland. However he has done a magnificent job this season keeping a young and incredibly talented squad focused on winning. The Tigers are young and green and thats the achilles heel of their rotation , Kenny Rogers arm fell off. But , hey we all knew that was going to happen. I still believe the Whitesox will catch them and since the Twins have come out of nowhere I have no idea who will win the wildcard. The Yankees , Twins , Whitesox , Redsox and Tigers are all great teams , unfortunately two of these teams will miss the playoffs. I picked the Whitesox to repeat based on the fact that they have a deep veteran squad that is a better team than they had last season.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 02:51 AM | Link to this

Good night, Dave. Grinch loves you.

Try to give him a little more of the attention tomorrow, Dave. He craves it so, and it keeps him fat and mollified, and might deter him from his obsessive course of blowing the lid off my treachery and deceit.

I feel like Nixon ‘74.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 02:58 AM | Link to this

Coach, What is your beef with Leyland? I would put him in the top five.

By Head Coach

August 16, 2006 03:32 AM | Link to this

In 91 we traded for Bonds and it was a done deal until leyland stuck his nose into it and persuaded Pittsburgh ownership to renege on the deal at the last minute. And that was the pre-steriod five tool Barry Bonds and it probably cost the Braves a championship or two.

By berigan

August 16, 2006 07:03 AM | Link to this

DOB. Kelly Hogan? Is that the Hulk’s daughter??? ;)

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 16, 2006 07:35 AM | Link to this

Well, I said before the Brewer series that the next 10 days would truly make or break the Braves playoff hopes. I said they had to win a minimum of 7 games and winning 8 or 9 would be preferable. Now, that they have lost one to the Brew Crew and one to the Nats, they can only lose once more on this trip. Surely, they can win the next two against the Nats. It appeared Cormier pitched okay last night and two of the five runs scored were direct results of errors and two more were an indirect result. So, the fact he held his own has to be somewhat encouraging.

By TommyB

August 16, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

Top o’the mornin’ all!

35: Your 11:30-ish Diz story is a real keeper!

Journalist Jimmy: Try just the plain Absorbine. 10 out of 13 journalists prefer it to the Jr. version. Me, I still think I’d go the wimp route and choose Falstaff.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

Condolences DOB for having to be in that cesspool called RFK. Simply the very worst imaginable professional stadium and location in existence. Makes Shea look good. Reminds me of two sayings “you can’t get there from here”, “the place is so crowded nobody goes there anymore”. When the Nats open the new stadium in a couple of years I think the same sayings will apply.

The Braves……..5 1/2 behind Cincy so luckily the loss last night didn’t hurt quite as bad but if teams are losing in front of us then we need to win obviously. Stll thinnk Cox used poor logic last night in setting the lineup. Removed Renteria and look what happened. Given Astacio’s prowess last night it is doubtful we would have won but I give Cox a big “F” last night on managing his team. Very poor job. Also I will give Andruw a kitchen pass for not being able to answer the bell but hopefully it was simply too painful and not just nagging.

” we like our beer flat as can be, we like our dogs with mustard and relish, we got a great pitcher what’s his name, ah we can’t even spell it, we don’t worry ‘bout the pennant much we just like to see the boys hit it deep, ain’t nothing like the view from the cheap seats”.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this

Condolences DOB for having to be in that cesspool called RFK. Simply the very worst imaginable professional stadium and location in existence. Makes Shea look good. Reminds me of two sayings “you can’t get there from here”, “the place is so crowded nobody goes there anymore”. When the Nats open the new stadium in a couple of years I think the same sayings will apply.

The Braves……..5 1/2 behind Cincy so luckily the loss last night didn’t hurt quite as bad but if teams are losing in front of us then we need to win obviously. Stll thinnk Cox used poor logic last night in setting the lineup. Removed Renteria and look what happened. Given Astacio’s prowess last night it is doubtful we would have won but I give Cox a big “F” last night on managing his team. Very poor job. Also I will give Andruw a kitchen pass for not being able to answer the bell but hopefully it was simply too painful and not just nagging.

” we like our beer flat as can be, we like our dogs with mustard and relish, we got a great pitcher what’s his name, ah we can’t even spell it, we don’t worry ‘bout the pennant much we just like to see the boys hit it deep, ain’t nothing like the view from the cheap seats”.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

my apologies for the double post but the “oops” editor clicked in on me telling me I had to repost due to “malicious content”! Not sure anyone else is getting that. First time I have seen it on this blog. Guess it didn’t like me ripping RFK or Cox.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this

Looks like with Smoltz going tonight we should have our strongest pitching as possible in Florida. My guess is that Hudson will pitch Friday, James Saturday, and Smoltz on Sunday. We will need that to have a chance against a very good Florida pitching corp.

Of particular importance tonight is that we get up big so that Smoltz doesn’t have to go 9 innings. I mean 5-6 runs ahead say after 6 or 7 so we can pull Smoltz to save him a little for Sunday. With Beaz and Wickman I feel comfortable holding that lead. It will be interesting to see how Bobby plays it assuming we can get aforementioned big lead.

The other big thing of course is that we need Villareal to win Thursday or at least we need to win when he starts. If we can’t get a win when someone other than Smoltz and Hudson pitch then we obviously won’t play .500 ball and catch up any. Guess I am stating the obvious and I apologize but it sets up my last statement here. If the Braves can’t win 3 of 4 from the Nats they are totally done. That means the whole post season slim chance rides on Smoltz and Villareal both winning back to back. Let’s hope Bobby plays it that way. No more “funny lineups” thank you very much.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

Guess I am the only one on this blog….gotta get back to work anyway. Check back with you tonight.

Rock on dudes/dudettes

By A.J.

August 16, 2006 09:39 AM | Link to this

For the love of all things good! Is Kyle Davies anywhere close to being ready? I’m not even concerned about the wildcard, I just can’t handle seeing Sheill-Barry-Cormier-Villareal killing our chances 2 out of every 5 days. At least Sheill is gone, but these guys belong in the bullpen.

In a related note, I bet Travis Smith is kicking himself for taking his release instead of going to AAA earlier this year. He’d be starting now.

Finally, I can’t figure out if all these mediocre pitchers are just throwing the best game of their lives against the Braves or if our hitters just have a strange ability to stink all at the same time. Because they’ve made a lot of pitchers look amazing this year Pedro Astacio?. I wonder how many times this year the Braves have had less than 5 hits. I bet we lead the league.

By chopthis

August 16, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

To dadgum and Robert(Justice Is The Best):

Y’all are like a couple of surgeons laboring frantically to save a brain-dead patient. Let the ‘06 Braves die with some dignity, guys. It’s over. They’re gone. Pull the plug already.

Someone had to say it.

By TommyB

August 16, 2006 09:50 AM | Link to this

Dave,

Just now getting caught up on the overnight “cables” in between meetings.

Archibald’s is apparently about (3) blocks away. Address is 1520 K Street Northwest. Very nondescript entrance and head downstairs at the beer sign.

By Deep Throat

August 16, 2006 09:59 AM | Link to this

Dave:

Meet me tonight in the darkest corner of Archibald’s. I have some very interesting inside information about Roger McDowell and exactly why the Braves’ pitching suddenly sucks.

McDowell’s an ex-Met, if you know what I mean, and I think you do.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Chopman, can’t say they are done officially just yet. If you read my post above I am giving them to Thursday. They win the next two they get a pass into Florida from me. If they don’t they are done. Stick a fork in it done. Maybe ,just maybe, we get through DC and Florida and Davies comes back in San Fran to give the staff a boost. Other teams keep playing at or below .500 and we are right there.

I know it is a little homerish of me but man I have passion for the things I care about. The Braves are one of those. I have disagreed with a lot the Braves have done this year but I hang on to any hope till that hope has gone. Also my comments over many of these blogs is that the Braves have too many teams to leapfrog and if a gun is put to my head I would say they won’t make it. I still hope though. Passion wins here dude. Give me two more days. As DOB has written here… “no this really is it”. Come on Chopman and others hang with us just two more days before sticking the fork in. You might just be glad you did…then again.

By TommyB

August 16, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

ChopThis: Apparently, Netflix has a good supply of OldBoy. It’s at the top of my list and tagged as Available Now.

By Rodger

August 16, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

Guys, it wouldn’t have helped having Smoltz, Koufax, or Cy Young pitching if you can’t score any runs. Why the hall would you gut the lineup when these “marginal” pitchers need all the help & confidence boosting they can get. Getting a win, or at least some run support, might go a long way towards future performance since we need these guys to step up too?

By journalist jimmy smith

August 16, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

…down the stairs at the sign that reads, “beer” … knock on the door with two sharp raps, then repeat the following, “dusty trails make for a dusty throat. aaron giraffe is dead.” one of two things will happen: you will be permitted to enter (hatless), a cheese sampler and beer will be passed to you to enjoy on the sidewalk, or the police will be summoned.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Dadgum-The worst stadium is without a doubt Fenway Park. I sat by the infamous Pesky Pole and couldn’t see a damn thing. Behind home plate was pretty good, but you have to mortgage your home to afford them. One section back from the Braves’ dugout costs $90 (per seat). It is the most uncomfortable stadium I’ve ever been in. It is so bad that Olympic Stadium in Montreal is a palace in comparison. They should just build a new place and move the Green Monster. With what has happened with the big dig, however, I’m not sure I would trust them to build a new stadium, though. Chop This, yes, the Braves’ chances are slim to none, but we don’t need Mets fans to tell us. Quit sucking up to Dave and taKE gRINCH’S ADVICE-GO AWAY TO mETS LAND.

By TommyB

August 16, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

HeadCoach:

Guess you heard Placido Polanco looks out for the rest of the ride. Possible re-entry during the playoffs but not likely. This could really hurt the Tigers. Let’s see how they respond.

Say, why don’t you like Leyland?

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

Mornin Lew, Sir journalist Jimmy,TommyB, and all other distinguished guests.—Lew I’m pretty sure Diz was 10 years old per your inquiry last evening. I seem to remember people saying something about acting like a 10 yr old or something to that effect. Also Drunky Clint says hi, and I do speak with him regularly.

By Tonight on HBO

August 16, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

Everybody Loves Dave

A beat writer (Dave O’Brien) for an underachieving baseball team (managed by blustery, buffonish Head Coach) must juggle the demands of his job with the aggravations brought on by his wild and wacky family, including his gorgeous wife Debra (Patricia Heaton, who at long, long last is gonna get naked — why else would we move the show to HBO?), his jealous, freakishly tall troll of an older brother (The Grinch) and sweet, Southern belle sister-in-law (Carolina Lady, who sure as hell could have done better for herself), and his intrusive, overbearing parents (Doris Roberts — come on, no one can replace her — and The Southern JackAss). In tonight’s pilot episode, Debra flies to Miami to pay Dave a suprise visit, but is surprised herself when she finds her husband making out with a fan (flbravesgirl) in the press box at the Braves-Marlins game. (TV-MA, for lots and lots of Patricia Heaton nude scenes.)

By Lew

August 16, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

35-Sorry, that one was just too good to pass up last night. I figured Clint may have had something to do with it. Sir James-did you send Hartebeest in search of Journalist Bob?

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

Lew- Just saw a new poll came out that finds 75% of Americans can name 2 of the 7 dwarfs, but only 25% can name 2 of the Supreme Court Justices. I find this appalling as even I can name 5 of the 7 dwarfs.

By dadgum

August 16, 2006 10:54 AM | Link to this

Lew, tell me you are joking. Please! Darn that stadium is so great that it would be worth it to stand the whole game. Hey I am not talking about rocking chair comforts here. If that were the case Wrigley would rank with the very worst. You have a better chance of getting shot at RFK as opposed to finding a good watering hole near the stadium. RFK is Olympic Stadium south only I am being too kind. Bad location, no atmosphere, no bars, bad team, bad manager, cookie cutter old style park, bad history. Can’t think of one good thing about that stadium. Not one. Also not one MLB player can say a good thing about it. Washington players don’t care because they have never had a decent field to play on-Olympic, San Juan, etc.

I live 1 1/2 hours from DC and frankly that is too close. Great city to visit then get the h*ll out quick. Man you gotta see it and work around it to know what I mean but for a few days you can deal with it. If you want to know what it is like traffic-wise take Atlanta’s times three.

Fenway & Wrigley get a pass just the historical issue. Also Fenway is hosting the ACC Championship next spring.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this

Dadgum-RFK may very well be a lousy stadium-I don’t know, I’ve never been there. I have, however been to Olympic Stadium numerous times (I used to go to the Braves entire series there for several years) and I’ve been to Fenway four times. History my big butt! That is the most uncomfortable most un-fan friendly place I’ve ever been. They made the seats so small you damn near have to sit sideways. Two of the times I went I had to wear long underwear (once in May!). In the concessions concourse, the first time I went, there was a hole in the asphalt big enough to lose a golf cart in and the facade of the stadium was hewld up with hydraulic jacks. Yes, there is history there-lots of it. But it still is the most uncomfortable place to watch a game. The hamburgers are, however, the best I’ve ever had at a ballpark.

By TommyB

August 16, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this

23 Balls, 89 Pitches Over 9 Innings…1st Shutout in 4 Years

I’m like Bobby. I’ll be danged if I’m going to heap praise on opposing pitchers.

But I will say this.

This has “JoBU” written all over it.

Bad juju. REALLY bad.

By flbravesgirl

August 16, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this

I can name all 7 dwarfs. Supreme Court…. I know it’s mostly W’s cronies now. Do the names matter?

To the TV listing writer: Kindly leave me out of your future “reviews”.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

Coach. You are made at Leyland for doing his job? Then again I could never stand Bonds. I read in “Game of Shadows” that VanSlyck was trying to position Bonds on the Cabrera /Bream at bat but he wouldn’t listen to him because he was pissed about Vanslyck’s big contract.

Last night on the blog Dr. Grinch came back from his sabbatical with shocking news of Chop This’ multiple personalities. What he didn’t say was that he is actually Bobby Valentine.

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

flbravesgirl—please call me 35. It has to do with DOB’s math skills. I am not familiar with the theme music you mentioned the other pm. If it sticks in your head any more than Disney’s sm—- wo—- I’m sure I do not ever wish to hear it.

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Greetings - Snowball’s Chance. From your entry last pm, I think we are approx. same age. Been Braves fan long???

By TommyB

August 16, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

HeadCoach: I’d have to agree with Snowball. Leyland was doing his job. And I’m glad Bonds never showed up in the Braves dugout.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

FlBravesGirl-I thought there were nine dwarves on the Supreme Court. Or is that the Presidential cabinet?

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 11:31 AM | Link to this

Lew—Drunky Clint said he could name 2 also but when I told him that, Tattoo and Mini-me, were not part of the 7 dwarfs, he got mad and went home.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 11:31 AM | Link to this

Snowball’s Chance-My most vivid memeory of the SidSlid game was not Skip’s Braves Win chant-It was Andy Van Slyke sitting in center field with his head between his hands-the most defeated player I’ve ever seen. It was definitely a thrill of victory-agony of defeat scenario.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this

35-Since the day I got cable and the Braves pulled off 13 Straight wins to start the season in ‘82. Dale Murphy is a hometown boy so that helped. I admit to backsliding in the late eighties when they were terrible. Portland, Oregon is the largest market without a Major League team so TBS used to give me my daily BB fix. Watch MLB put the next team in Las Vegas. The whole state is pumped about BB since Oregon State won the CWS.

By flbravesgirl

August 16, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this

35, I’m from a family of Disneyphiles so the song doesn’t actually bother me but it does embed itself in your brain.

Coach, I know Bonds was once a great player but I have never wanted to see him in a Braves uni. He used to keep a home in my hometown. He’d have been more trouble than his play was ever worth, believe me.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

35-Clint may be smarter than the rest of us. I’d better go eat some lunch or I might take my level of political commentary to new heights (or perhaps depths). Later y’all.

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

flbravesgirl— My son is also a huge Disney lover so much that he went to work for them. However he soon found out that working for Disney was no walk in the park.[pun intended] He now goes to school at USF on Tampa.

By 10-7-4

August 16, 2006 11:53 AM | Link to this

Snowball’s Chance—I remember that season well. I too had become a backsliding fan since they were so bad during the 70’s. They opened that season with 13 straight wins and I got involved again. I hate to admit this but, when I finally went to the park they lost. I just knew that was going to happen. There was a very good documentary done about that season called “It’s A Long Way To October”.

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

I seem to remember Bob Horner hitting four homers in one game in the 80’s and the Braves lost. It is nice that Chipper and Diaz had a great day when the Braves won.

I’m sorry , but I think the Mets will be a force for a while. They had Valentine and that idiot from ESPN, Steve Phillips running the show before. Thay have a good coach in Willie Randolph and a good GM in Manaya[sic] and owners who will overspend. I don’t think they will win it all this year but they are going to be a good team for a while.

By DonCoburleone

August 16, 2006 12:26 PM | Link to this

What the he11 did I say yesterday before the game? I said that tonight we see why the Braves are 7 (now 8) games below .500! They are a mediocre baseball team and it is not going to change this year. 2007 is the Braves year though!

By DonCoburleone

August 16, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this

I agree Snowball’s Chance, I don’t see the Muts declining that much (if at all) from this year to next. Sure, Pedro may only start 15-20 games a year for the next 2 years, but that is really all they need with that offense. I mean, lets be honest here Braves fans, the Muts position players are NOT old at all. Jose Valentin and Cliff Floyd are getting up there in age, but they are easily replaceable. Delgado and LoDuca still have 3-4 solid years left IMO. Then they’ve got Beltran, Wright, Reyes and Milledge for the next freakin decade! Not to mention the fact that the Muts have a GREAT shot at landing Zito this offseason! They’ve proven (ala Beltran) that they can out-bid the big boys for free agents. The Muts are here to stay guys… AND IT SUCKS!!!

By Snowball's Chance

August 16, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

I would just like to see the Braves make it to .500 this year. With all the injuries that would be an accomplishment.

By BB FAN

August 16, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

I’m more concerned about the Braves not spending any money to stay competitive than I am about the Mets continuing their success. The Mets have a chance to be good for a few years as long Minaya doesn’t trade away the few prospects they have. And their pitching staff is very old. Martinez, Glavine, Hernandez are all past their prime. Delgado is past his prime as well.

I think Minaya was the Expos GM that traded Grady Sizemore, Cliff Lee, Brandon Phillips and Lee Stevens to Cleveland for Bartolo Colon and Tim Drew. That trade completely screwed the Expos/Nationals minor league system. They have not recovered since. I used to go to a lot of Expos games because I only live 45-60 minutes from Montreal. And I remember thinking how that was a lot of potential talent to give up for Colon.

I would not say Minaya is a good GM just yet. He could end up being a good GM, but he’s not yet.

By Tonight on HBO

August 16, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Everybody Loves Dave

Episode 2: “Dave’s Midlife Crisis”

Dave (Dave O’Brien) moves to Miami to be with his new young squeeze (flbravesgirl) and to cover the Marlins again, but soon becomes disenchanted when he finds the sex cold and dry and the baseball hot and sticky. Debra and the Braves eventually take him back, but it’s gonna be a long, long time before Head Coach is nice to him or Debra is nude for him again. (Damn you, Dave!) And needless to say, The Grinch is mighty upset that his brief respite from the source of his green-eyed jealousy is over. Special guest appearances by journalist jimmy smith as a garrulous, pesky Miami Herald reporter and dadgum and Robert(Justice Is The Best) as a pair of naive, never-say-die Braves fans who hitchhike to Miami to beg Dave to come back to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and resurrect their dormant blog. (TV-PG — Damn you, Dave!)

By DonCoburleone

August 16, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

We all need to cross our fingers in the offseason and root for Steinbrenner to open his fat wallet one more time and land Zito. If the Muts get him, we are in some serious trouble!

By ssiscribe

August 16, 2006 01:04 PM | Link to this

Man, I jumped on here for just a second before I resume packing. I’ve been at it since 7 a.m. this morning, the movers will be here in an hour and I’m trying to finish up so we can get outta here.

So, I log on and read the first two “episodes” for America’s newest hot series, Everybody Loves Dave.

Maybe it’s because I’m about to go crazy (anybody who’s ever moved knows how much it can suck), but that might be the funniest s#$% I’ve ever read on here.

Journalist Jimmy, you the producer, right? I wanna volunteer for a cameo appearance!! Maybe I can carry the Herald’s laptop bag, or serve DOB coffee in the press box.

St. Simons office out. Next report comes tomorrow night from the capital city. Go get em tonight, John, we need it!

By ncscoots

August 16, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

I read a story today, and I wanted to share it with some folks who will understand how it makes me feel. In a Little League playoff game, a team trailing by enough runs to invoke the mercy rule PURPOSELY struck out in their last half-inning, causing the game to end. However, the team leading did not win the game. Instead, they were forced to forfeit because of the participation rule (everybody didn’t get to play).

Since I choose to believe children of Little League age simply aren’t that devious, I am forced to assume that some adult told them not only was such thievery OK, but urged them to be complicit in the theft. This first made me heartsick. That feeling was soon replaced by an overwhelming urge to pimp-slap said adult until his eyes were bleeding.

When I see such a thing occur in a game I truly love (regardless of the level at which it is played), it frightens and bewilders me, and makes me fear for the game’s future.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 16, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

scribe, rest assured journalist jimmy smith is not the producer. journalist always respects the ladies on the blog. now, baseball … tonight we face the feared billy traber. what will the lineup be? will “p” players be in abundance?

By flbravesgirl

August 16, 2006 01:40 PM | Link to this

Well I’m glad you’re amused by it, scribe. I, however, am not.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

Scoots-I’m not sure it’s the game in trouble or just The Humanity in general. Snowball-I agree. We’ve got to at least get to .500.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this

LOVE the synopsis of the movie of my gig covering Braves. Well, most of it. No need to attack a few of our finer family members here. And not sure if Flbravesgirl is married or not. But otherwise, very good story. I’d watch that flick.

Lew, hate to disagree with you, but couldn’t disagree more with your assessment of Fenway. That’s one of my very favorite places, and you must not have been there since they did renovations last few years. While still old and dank in places in the walkways and stairwells in bowels of stadium, the charm and the history and tradition of the place can’t be matched. I like Wrigley, but it’s such a pain to get up and back from the pressbox after games, fighting through crowds, that it skews my review. But Fenway and Wrigley are at top of my list overall, along with a couple of new ones in San Diego, Seattle, Houston, Pittsburgh (except for the horrible pressbox eight miles high) and Colorado (only thing I disliked about it before were the games, but now those are normal with the humidor balls, etc).

RFK’s a toilet, very much like a bigger version of the San Juan stadium. And Olympic Stadium south is accurate, if it had a bad roof. At least Olympic Stadium was easy as hell to get to, with a subway stop literally connected to the ballpark. You could stay at the marriott, get on the subway beneath the hotel, and get out in the stadium, without every setting foot outside if it were raining or cold or whatever.

Of course, in Montreal you usually wanted to set foot outside. Very nice, uh, scenery.

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

Oops. Just saw FLbravesgirl’s post after i said I liked the TV show synopsis. Nevermind. I hate it

You’re going to get me in trouble here, dude. I’ve gotta avoid responding to that stuff from now on.

By KC

August 16, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t get too upset about last night’s loss. Games like that are going to happen. Astacio pitched not only his best game of the season, but probably his best game in several seasons. Yeah, we had a couple of costly errors that had me throwing footwear at the television, but they really didn’t matter in the end. We just couldn’t get anything going against Astacio. If not even Chipper or Diaz could hit him as hot as they’ve been, then you know he just pitched a helluva game, and you’ve just gotta tip your hat.

Anyway, the good news is that Lance Cormier actually pitched pretty well. Officially, he gave up 3 earned runs (2 unearned), but in reality he only gave up 2 earned and 3 unearned. If he can pitch this way the rest of the season, we’ll win more of his starts than we lose.

The other good news is that Smoltz is on the mound tonight, and Renteria should be back in the lineup (instead of T.Pena who makes Pete Orr look like Pete Rose)!

Go Bravos!

By Tomahawkin

August 16, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

Fenway is nice, But I hate the fact that they put seats atop the Green Monster, It looked a-lot better with the netting

Good comparison on RFK Being Olympic Stadium South…

Apocalypse may be upon us The Tigers winning the World Series with the best record, and the Braves missing the playoffs

Who would have thought It would be like this, 2 years ago when we got Hudson and Smoltz to anchor our staff?

By Lew

August 16, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

DOB-Don’t get me wrong-Fenway has much charm and history-all very evident. I’m a person of substance, however, and the place is just plain uncomfortable. I don’t know what the pressbox is like (although I don’t imagine they treat you like visiting dignitaries), but I sat next to that pole in right field and didn’t see a single pitch Schilling made. I was there earlier this year and got comped home plate tickets. There I could see. The stadium is just way too small for the amount of people they have there on a daily basis. You gotta have room to breathe and they don’t have it at Fenway. They did propose building an identical stadium next door to Fenway and moving the Green Monster to it. I would love to have that happen, but you’ve seen the big dig and it sure doesn’t inspire me that the same people might work on the stadium. I really do like the hamburgers, though.

By Lew

August 16, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

DOB-I bet you don’t pay $90 a ticket to get in, either.

By flbravesgirl

August 16, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

Don’t worry about it, DOB. I’d have been amused by it… if the author hadn’t decided to portray me in that manner.

By KC

August 16, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

Fenway is baseball Heaven. I’ve seen 2 games there and loved it!

Tomahawkin: Don’t count the Braves out of the playoffs just yet.

By Tomahawkin

August 16, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

with our inconsistant play, on both sides of the ball, I’m not too optomistic anymore

Someone said that our offense is too one dimensional, and I totally agree, unless you’re the 95 rockies you can’t beat playoff contending teams with the longball…especially with subpar pitching staff…

By Lew

August 16, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

I swear, you all must be scrawny examples of humans! Fenway is similar to a sardine can. Dave, I do agree about Olympic Stadium, though. It was the easiest ever to get to. We stayed at the Sheraton with the Braves and took the subway in. Having your own personal vendor at the seats because no one was there was nice, too. I know the players hated it, though. Maybe it’s because I swa Glavine pitch a 7 hitter there. I’m basing my opinion of Fenway strictly on comfort level, though, not ambience.

By Rodger

August 16, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

KC-

Don’t get too upset by last nights loss? After they pound the cover off the ball, to manage 2 hits, no runs against the equivalent of one of our AAAs? After Bobby guts the lineup with no pitcher, knowing we need to win “every game” per Chipper? It doesn’t upset me, it “P”s me off!!! We needed more offense to cover, not less!!!

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

Lew, for a lot of us, ambience can outweigh comfort in rare cases, and Fenway and Wrigley are the two that come to mind.

Much as I like clean, modern amenities, you feel like you’re a baseball cathedral at Fenway. You can see Ted Williams if you look hard enough.

OK, new blog posted. Gotta get to the RFK toilet. Later.

By Tonight on TBS

August 16, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

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. Extremely violent. Captioned for the hard of hearing.

(Note: TBS is not affiliated with HBO.)

By David O'Brien

August 16, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

also, Lew, the vast majority of Sox fans don’t want a new park. They LOVE Fenway. Survey after survey has said so.

So our opinions mean squat. They’re paying the freight, and packing the place every single night.

By DonCoburleone

August 16, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

Do the Braves actually have a Major League lineup tonight? Or is it going to be more of the same from last night… And why is Pena on the team right now??? All I hear about is his great defense and then last night he makes a HUGE error… Send his a*s back down!

By KC

August 16, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this

Rodger:

A great pitching performance can shut down any offense. Astacio is not a great pitcher… but he was last night. Mediocre pitchers aren’t mediocre because they’re not capable of pitching a great game. They’re mediocre because they seldom do it. But sometimes lightning strikes.

Astacio pitched what might have been the best game of his career last night. Believe me, I was disgusted last night. But in retrospect, you’ve just got a chalk it up as one of those occasional losses that really couldn’t have been prevented.

By Tonight on HBO

August 16, 2006 03:06 PM | Link to this

Everybody Loves Dave

Episode 3: “Curbing Dave’s Enthusiasm”

In an estrangement rendered all too brief by plummeting ratings for Episode 2 and flbravesgirl’s Puritanical streak (it’s just a role, sweetie!), Debra finds it increasingly difficult to fulfill Dave’s superhuman amorous demands, so she sprinkles something besides sugar on his Flutie Flakes, if you know what we mean, and we think you do. Dave’s artifically lessened desire gives Debra some relaxation and Brother Grinch a much-needed boost of confidence. Features a humorous montage of clips of The Grinch lording his superior virility over a humiliated Dave (you get to stretch your acting boundaries here, Dave) to the strains of Dylan’s “Positively 4th Street.” (TV-MA, for the return of a breathtakingly nude Patrticia Heaton —YES!!)

By KC

August 16, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for the Red Sox to do nothing.

By Head Coach

August 16, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this

This is the last time I will post this stat : The Braves have been below .500 since June 4th , thats 11 weeks in a row of sub .500 baseball with 7 weeks left in the season. In the words of John Smoltz : The Braves cannot even think about the playoffs until they get back to .500 . It’s been over for two and half months , wake up and smell the coffee.