Braves

By Lew

August 28, 2006 04:08 PM | Link to this

Well, This Monday sure has been interesting.

By AJK

August 28, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

DOB: Great post, and couldn’t agree more. Pick up the option now - just no legit excuse not to. But I doubt it’ll happen, if for no other reason than that Schuerholz will want to show Smoltzie who’s boss. The one big negative with Schuerholz has always been that impossible ego…

By ernesto

August 28, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this

There are few things l love as much as going out at sea becoming a hurricane, then not being one, then becoming one again, but the thing I love even more is seeing that Tomahawk on Smoltzie’s chest…He’s a steal at 8 million (I mean John “Oh my God I suck” Thomson gets 4 million. Extend Smoltz already homeboy!

By SaltyDog55

August 28, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this

DOB…simply a classic, classic blog. You really ran with the story…I’m still laughing! Kudos!

Manic Monday…Bangles (at least the first verse…kinda captures that Monday AM blues feeling, you know, cold water in the face!)

Six o’clock already I was just in the middle of a dream I was kissin’ Valentino by crystal blue Italian stream But I can’t be late ‘cause then I guess just won’t get paid These are the days when you wish your bed was already made….

By dfree

August 28, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

js the gm and js the pitcher are having a battle royal with their ego’s….

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 28, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

Pick up the option. I’d hate to see John Sch. lose any respect from the rest of the younger guys because they see the bearded face of the franchise standing his ground (and desevedly so). A negative clubhouse environment is the last thing these guys need at this moment. Not Saying that they are negative now, but they don’t need to fall into a he said/she said rut….

Let’s try this one on for size: “Headin’ up to San Francisco for a Labor day weekend show….. I got my hushpuppies on, I guess I never was meant for glitter-rock & roll….And honey, I didn’t know that I’d be missin’ you so…..

Come Monday, it’ll be alright Come Monday, I’ll be holding you tight I spent four lonely days in a brown L.A. haze And I just want you back by my side”

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 04:35 PM | Link to this

Trees are flexible and bend in the wind. Airplane wings are flexible and it adds to their strength. A body that is flexible enables that body to make full use of itself. Flexibility is a most desirable trait.

If I had an employee who has proven himself loyal and dedicated in many ways for many years, without whom my business would have suffered mightily, I would make myself flexible enough to acknowledge that employee’s concerns with a word or two. That’s all it would have taken.

I would have made certain that would never have reached this point to begin with. Ripples from a tossed stone reach every part of the pond. How do others in the company now perceive themselves and their relationship to that company? Is a rigid, hard-shelled ego worth the destruction of the company itself?

(Sorry, Scoots. Still love ya!)

By Greg

August 28, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

Dave:

Whatever happened to the money Chipper deferred? We might be hanging a 15th division flag if JS had used it to sign a real closer in the off season. I predict that will be the last time a player takes a pay cut to help his team. Time-Warner is a bunch of greedhead bastards. I hope Liberty wants a ball club and not just a tax break, but I fear the worst. Remember, throughout the ’80s, the KC Royals were a baseball power. We could be in for a long decline.

By tyyosh

August 28, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

How certain are we that this was intended as a blatant insult, as opposed to a talkative guy using slang? (Homeboy = neighborhood friend, I believe). It would not surprise me to see Smoltz apologize and clarify that he did not mean it to sound disrespectful.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

Could this stirring up of controversy Smoltz has done be some way of bringing the team together. You know all the attention shifts away from the play on the field and to Smoltz who at this point in his career and life can handle it. I’m thinking sort of what Ozzie Guillen does. He makes these outrageous comments and all of a sudden no one is talking about how badly the White Sox have played but about Ozzie’s strange use of the word, “pirahanas”. Interesting pronunciation he has on that word. Anyway, by Smoltz bringing this up for the last day no one has mentioned the horrific bullpen or Frenchy’s wild swings, or Andruw’s pension for wild swings, or the fact the starting rotation is currently a step above the Royals.

Its just interesting Smoltz brings this up now. Why not a month ago? Perhaps Smoltz knows it is truly now or never for the Braves and this young team needs to be focused and not continuously asked why they aren’t performing.

Now, if this isn’t some sort of stunt by Smoltz then JS should be ashamed of himself for doing this to probably the greatest Atlanta Brave that ever lived!

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

CL, I don’t have a single problem with what you posted. I’ve done the very thing myself, because there ARE some folks who have earned consideration. I am not, however, psychic and cannot know every single distress among every single employee without SOME input. I wish I could, but I can’t. For me, it still goes back to the forum Smoltz chose for making his displeasure known. Even if Smoltz can’t stand to be in the same room with Schuerholz, criminy, that’s why they MAKE agents. Schuerholz is not the bad guy here. I’m afraid this is one time that it would be pretty hard for me to change my mind on the issue, and that’s saying a lot for me.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

Also, JS better watch how he handles this situation. Because if he screws over Smoltz, then guys like LaRoche, Francoeur, and McCann knows it could happen to them.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

while homeboy may mean neighborhood friend in somebody’s neighborhood, it probably is not the preferred greeting in js’ neighborhood. sure, it was disrespectful - it was likely intended that way. will the braves air their dirty laundry in the ajc or will they (have they already) talk it our among themselves? smoltz is a big boy and shouldn’t need a lot of lovin’ - just a regular check. jimmy smith can’t feel like smoltz is owed an awful lot - it goes both ways - the team didn’t abandon him when his arm was falling off. journalist thinks picking up the option makes sense for the team but if the player rocks the boat too much in this organization the player does not win - he is gone. too bad this is happening with smoltz - a fan favorite.

By hk

August 28, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

… Braves are leading the league in runs, rbi, total bases, slugging avg and home runs …

… here’s the hitter’s ‘MVP’ through last night, including Betemit’s numbers (still starting most of the time) … so far with LA, .239 avg, .290 obp …

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

Andruw…..98…..38…..129…265…267

Frenchy….87…..30…..112…229…229

LaRoche….88…..33……94…215…207

Chipper….93…..26……90…210…204

Renteria..107…..14……68…188…188

Giles……97…..11……63…171…166

McCann…..58…..20……83…161…159

Betemit….49…..19……53…121…116

Langy……46……9……31….87….82

Team Average……………….179…176

click here for chart

By tyyosh

August 28, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

BTW DOB, What did you mean on the last blog early this morning, where you said there was a good chance JS (GM) would read [one of the poster’s] comments on the blog? Does JS read these blogs? Or maybe are there some well-connected people posting inside knowledge here?!?

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

Ty, yes, he does.

Manic Monday … good choice. Forgot about that one.

oh, and … Virginia Madsen.

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

Scoots, I have to agree that I think the wrong forum was used, just based on my limited knowledge of the events. I wish it hadn’t gotten so public; that never works. If Shuerholz had wished to respond to Smoltz’ original comment (something about hoping that mgt would step up), he should not have made that snide, dismissive comment about Smoltz to the press but should have used private communication. Badly handled.

By kevin

August 28, 2006 05:07 PM | Link to this

Karma Police is nice

By SaltyDog55

August 28, 2006 05:09 PM | Link to this

CL and Scoots Both positions well presented…it’d be nice to sit around the table and gnash this one over pie and tea!

JS and JS let this get public and need to fix it just as quickly.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 05:10 PM | Link to this

So,DOB, if JS really reads this blog then what has he ever said about some of the posts? There have been some rather nasty things written about him here.

By Greg

August 28, 2006 05:12 PM | Link to this

Dave:

If JS reads these blogs, then he must be acutely aware how disgusted most Braves fans are regarding this year and the poor team that we fielded. No leadoff hitter. And no bullpen. Plummeting to last place.

The wild card is nothing more than a cruel joke, and it’s been that way since June. We aren’t even .500.

If I owned Time-Warner stock I would flush it down the toilet. It makes me cringe to think of all those years that we lost in the post season because Time-Warner was too cheap to add the piece we needed to get to and win the Series. JS has been very creative and we’ve been lucky with the weakness of our division over the last few years. But this year Time-Warner’s penny-pinching bit us in the a*.

Maybe we should try to finish last to get better draft picks. As cheap as Time-Warner and as cheap as Liberty will be, we need really good young pitching that plays for the minimum salary. Finish last, boys, or we’re going to be really mediocre for the next decade.

By ernesto

August 28, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

Homeboy = guy you like…it was actually a term of endearment. JS should just say “Gotcha Playah, I’m gonna extendizzle ya” I think the JSs are just keepin’ it real.

By ernesto

August 28, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

Blue Monday (new order)…nah, I like the Buffett reference better.

By Lew

August 28, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Maybe if we sent them Pete and Skip’s BBQ, pie and a jug of sweet tea, they could talk it out and come to an understanding. I’ll buy the pie.

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Hey, Salty! Thanks! You bring the pie(s) and I’ll bring the sweet tea!

The more I think about it, when first asked about picking up the option, instead of flatly saying he doesn’t negotiate until postseason, something a little more diplomatic like “I look forward to talking with John after the season” would have been so much better. Seems that ‘people skills’ may be somewhat lacking.

Oh, well. They are them and I am me, and what I think doesn’t matter a toot. I think I’ll sashay into the kitchen and warm up some of those good ol’ stuffed shells from last night! :-))

BTW, has anybody heard from SUDS (in China)lately??

By T.C.

August 28, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this

In honor of the small firestorm created by the JS’s, how about:

“They Call it Stormy Monday”

By TennesseePaul

August 28, 2006 05:38 PM | Link to this

DOB: OK, now that I’ve read this blog I think I have a good idea what this is becoming. I recall a few weeks back when Andruw was put on waivers (Oh the horror!). My view of it then was that it was all AJC over-hype. Now I’m starting to think this is of the same ilk. There are a lot of issues with this team this year, but I don’t think any of these issues will result in Smoltz not returning. As far as everyone can tell from this side of the business, the front office is running on the Business-As-Usual schedule. Smoltz is Smoltz. That seems to be the gist of this storty.

I love Smoltz. He’s my all time favorite Brave. He has been since he came up. My Brother and I would fight over it. He was left handed and like Glavine. I’m right handed and like Smoltz. But, nevertheless, we like the Braves. The only blemish Smoltz has, in my eyes, is he talks a lot. But he’s always been like this. He has a strong will. It’s served him well in his career, but it does pop up on the ugly side every now and then. And no matter what, that man should be a Brave as long as he desires to pitch at this level of ball. Of all the Hall Of Famers that have played for the Braves over the last 15 years, Smoltz is for sure the one who should stick through and end his career here. I’d like to see him, Chipper, and Andruw all finish Hall of Fame Careers with this club.

Now, as a side note, Smoltz has been my best player since day one. But, knowing he is nearing the end of his career (Be it in 1 year or 7) I am strongly leaning towards McCann as my next Best. It’s as close match between Francoeur, Davies, James and McCann. But McCann is the front runner right now. That guy is just blowing me away.
And the beard is solid. Very solid.

By Tom A. Hawk

August 28, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Fats Domino’s “Blue Monday” is easily the best Monday song. What an oversight!

By Lew

August 28, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

There never is much in the way of GOOD young pitching that pitches for the Major League minimum, Greg. I’m not sure where you think to find it outside of the amateur draft. If you draft them, you have to wait several years before they get good enough to bring up. Then you have to hope that they are as good as you hoped. Then you have to hope they won’t get injured. We already have young pitchers working their way up. We will draft more. If you think you will get them from other teams, good luck. They are looking for Good young pitchers who pitch for the Major League minimum, too. Not everyone is as stupid as the Mets to give away pitchers like Scott Kazmir. We already have good young pitchers. What about Kyle Davies and Chuck James? What about Lerew? What about Horacio Ramirez? What about McBride and Boyer? The reason we are in the position we are now is because of two things-1. We’re a very young team and have been rebuilding for a couple of years, now. The Division Titles we won in recent years has masked this fact. 2. Injuries. We have had an inordinate amount of injuries the past two years. It forced us last year, to bring up a substantial portion of our AA team, at least a year and maybe two early. Life in the future is not as dismal as you make it. The run had to end sometime and we’re lucky it went this far. We’ll be back soon. Don’t turn out the lights.

By elbravox

August 28, 2006 05:48 PM | Link to this

On this one J.S. is full of B.S. This move will cost The Braves millions and/or players to bounce out of Atlanta.

By MEB

August 28, 2006 05:48 PM | Link to this

Ba-da ba-da-da-da, Ba-da ba-da-da-da, Ba-da ba-da-da-da

A happy Monday to all!

So… its Schmidt vs. Hudson tomorrow night, Giants vs. Braves, one of my favorite Braves rivals. Right behind the Dodgers and Mets.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

Hey, Columbus is playing for the LLWS title right now. They just mentioned that the Braves sent along best wishes to the team. Lets hope they can take it to Japan tonight.

By BravesLifer

August 28, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

DOB - I would think that you, moreso than anyone else on this blog, wouldn’t say something like that Schuerholz needs to pick up his option now. You usually have a level head about these types of things, and don’t get caught up in the emotion of it. You said that this won’t happen again…The reality is there is a very strong likelihood that this will happen again, and in the next few years (if I’m correct in assuming what you meant—that it’s because Smoltz is a lifelong Brave and fan favorite, and has given everything he has to the team). Look at Chipper and Andruw. I’m not sure of their exact contract situations, but there is a strong possibility that they may come into the same situation in the next few years…lifelong Braves that have an option to be picked up, and Schuerholz wants to wait until after the season to do so. You stated yourself above that teams always wait until after the season to pick up such options…why should this be any different? Some of Schuerholz’s success can be attributed to the fact that he rarely gives into players (which helps him to keep some sort of authority), never negotiates during the season (which means there are less distractions for the team on the field), and does not do “no-trade” clauses (which can handcuff an organization for years). I don’t think this situation is any different. If Smoltz’s arm falls off in late September, it would be foolish of us to have already picked up his option, and pay him 1/10th of the entire team budget for next year, when he would contribute nothing. And for those of you that say we “owe it to him,” why? We’ve paid him millions and millions of dollars, and stuck with him when he had serious injuries in his mid- to late-thirties. Granted, we stuck with him because he was still good and we thought he could produce for us…but that’s just it. This is a business. You can’t make decisions based on emotion, or wanting to show someone appreciation. He’ll get his option in due time, and can shower himself with $8 million worth of appreciation.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 06:00 PM | Link to this

Back again. Methinks this Smoltz-Schurholz thing is getting blown way out of proportion. Speaking of methinks, where is Bob? CL, I have stuffed shells with alfredo/parmesan sauce on the menu tonight, though I’m sure yours were better (especially on the second day). Lasagne is really more my specialty, right behind Taco Bell :-) Lew, your comment about Breyer’s the other day made me grab some mint chocolate chip, as well. 35, thanks for the reassurance, I was all ready to load my red-eared Guanaereo(?) speedwagon rifle. DOB, you said hold this check ‘till next Thursday, right?

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

Since I keep throwing Smoltz under the bus, I guess I should point out that I think his option SHOULD be picked up, in case anyone thought otherwise. I have great respect for the man between the lines, he’s got sand, and you can’t help but like that in a competitor. And 19 years (or whatever) gives the guy the right to push a LITTLE bit. But he’s already used that up this season, and now he’s stepped over the line, IMO. Schuerholz may have been snide in a comment or two, but he didn’t initiate this crapola, and I’d probably get a little testy myself (and everybody knows what a sweetheart I am :-)..don’t they?) when folks not privy to all goings on in the organization imply I’m not doing everything in my power to bring success. Maybe they work it out, and the option gets picked up in a couple of weeks, I don’t know. I don’t have nearly the ego Schuerholz is supposed to have, but I personally would have a hard time turning the other cheek on this one.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this

if js reads this blog then he must be aware that our blog leader has won a wurlitzer. a small sign should be nailed to the wall of the pressbox signifying this prize. not even the old journalist has a wurlitzer. the little sign structure is probably already in house and and available since it will not be used for its originally intended purpose - this year. with just a little imagination the wurlitzer sign can become a major testimony to the journalistic endeavors of dob - and a fitting tribute in an appropriate venue. now, suspenders … sartorial splendor has been wanting on this team since the departure of prime time deion sanders. js with his suspenders is the best dressed member of the organization and certainly he cannot be considered a homeboy. what homeboy wears suspenders? erkel? not even close.

toes. address the toes of these players! hire a toe man and get right with baseball.

now, virginia madsen - lovely - and having no need for suspenders. dob has good taste in lovely ladies.

By Lew

August 28, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

Grinch-Breyer’s mint chocolate chip is the food of the God’s. Taco Bell is good, too. I agree that it is all getting blown out of proportion. Slow news day.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

Speaking of lovely ladies, it’s hard to think of “Manic Monday” by the Bangles without giving mad props to Susannah Hoffs, Homeboy-eeezz (I’m sure that’s the way Smoltzie meant it). She’s actually even still hot now. Jimmy, what are your ideas regarding sock-suspenders? Perhaps that’s what the Braves need to shore up their toe problems, and the wise and sage JS is trying to lead them down that path by example.

By Ptown Bravo

August 28, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

John Prine, homeboy. Boomtown Rats might be a little too upbeat for these Atlanta Braves on any given Monday. Jimmy Buffett is a strong second.

From his latest, Fair and Square, “Long Monday”:

It’s gonna be a long Monday Sittin’ all alone on a mountain By a river that has no end It’s gonna be a long Monday Stuck like the tick of a clock That’s come unwound - again And again

PS: can you even begin to imagine the soundbites we’d have if Gary Sheffield was in the Braves’ lockerroom this season?

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

Lew’s right. I’m done with it, guess my venom is spewed, LOL. Besides, it’s hard to stay mad with a wurlitzer winner in the house…and thoughts of Virginia Madsen in my head!

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 06:14 PM | Link to this

Now, people hear me out before you go slamming me. I think it is becoming quite obvious that A-Rod can no longer play in New York. Its messing with his mind and I think Jeter lets him know every day that the Yanks are his team. Now, lets say the Yanks are willing to trade A-Rod and Andruw doesn’t committ to signing an extension. What if the Braves offered Andruw for A-Rod? The trade would be an almost straight up trade money wise because the Rangers are paying a part of A-Rod’s contract and in reality the Braves would only be paying him 15 mil, which is 1.5 more than Andruw will be making or at least as much as he would be making if he signed an extension.

By The Grinch

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

I agree. I got the kind with sugar, I hope you don’t think me impertinent (especially since we’re not sharing it).

By BravesLifer

August 28, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

Robert (JIB) - The same thought crossed my mind today, but where would we put him? We have an unmoveable contract with Chipper, and an absolute steal with Renteria at short…so there’d be nowhere to put A-Rod. But I do think he’d thrive in a place like Atlanta, where the media and the fans are pretty soft, relatively speaking.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 06:18 PM | Link to this

Jesus H. Christmas, Robert! It’s a slow news day, indeed, but not THAT slow. However, I would be curious to see if A-Rod’s lips turn normal color in hot weather…

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 06:19 PM | Link to this

I apologize I posted my comments before I was finished. The Braves could then trade Renteria to a team like the Angles for a good young starting pitcher, who will also be cheap. They could still package some combination of Giles, Langerhans, and Thorman for a good leadoff hitter. If not, they should have enough money to get a closer (preferably Wickman until Devine or Boyer are ready to take over) and a leadoff hitter.

Okay, I’m ready to be ridiculed.

By Ptown Bravo

August 28, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

Oh, yeah, one more thing, since it is an off day, maybe we could dedicate today’s blog to the lovely Virginia Madsen - just a thought.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

BravesLifer, that may be true about the Atlanta media and A-rod, but what about the NY media and Andruw? There’s a reason he took less money to stay here, and it ain’t the weather. That would be a really crappy thing to do to one of the greatest to ever don a Braves uni. Besides, Andruw’s cool and A-Rod isn’t, despite the slightly higher average. I’d be PO’d if this happened, which it won’t.

By paluka

August 28, 2006 06:22 PM | Link to this

Not only should Smoltz’ option be picked up and announced but JS should also offer another option year as well. Speaking of contracts: any word on a possible extention for Andruw? And just for everyones information Manic Monday wes penned by Prince-the greatest song writter of our time!!

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 06:24 PM | Link to this

gawd, trade for the most narcissistic, self-obsessed player on the planet? puh-leeze…half the time I expect the guy to break into the royal “we” when he’s talking about himself (which is most of the time). Had he signed with Braves instead of the Rangers back in the day, wow, what he could have been. But now? Fish three days in the sun.

By Tom A. Hawk

August 28, 2006 06:25 PM | Link to this

BravesLifer — AMEN!

If I could have said it better myself, I would have. But I couldn’t agree more with your post.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this

Prince certainly had his moments (more so than most probably realize), but that’s going a bit far. He could really shred on a guitar, too, but didn’t do it on alblum, for some reason.

By krath

August 28, 2006 06:29 PM | Link to this

I grew up watching and playing basketball where you played good defense, came down the court, set up the offense and ran plays designed to get someone open for a shot. Pick and roll, lots of passing, trying to get a good shot.

It was effective and the teams that did it well were the most successful.

Anyone who tried to coach a team to play that way today on any level other than pee wee ball, would be lucky to win a single game! Sure you still have to play D but the offensive side of the game is so much faster, the athletes are so much bigger and quicker! It’s a running game and even though teams run offensive sets, it’s nothing like it was years ago.

Things change. Life changes. The game changes. People change. Loyalties change.

Look at baseball today. It’s a game where guys hit the ball 450 feet and then stand and admire the shot at home plate. Is there ever any retaliation? Sure, but rarely. The Russ Springer thing in Houston this year was to me the coolest thing. He nailed Bonds because Bonds admired one too many shots off Springer. Heck Bonds has been admiring them waaaay too long in my opinion. I admire any pitcher who goes after a hitter who tries to show him or the opposition up. It just doesn’t happen that often anymore though. I’m not trying to sound tough, but if I were pitching and Manny admired one of his shots like he does sometimes…. “Manny would just be being Manny” on his back the next time he came up even if he wiped the field with my butt! lol

Ok…. I rambled too long on that but my point was that things are different even than they were in 1995.

Sometimes, “the way we do things here” that worked in 1996 ain’t gonna work in 2006.

The General Manager who will not adjust his methods to meet the current state of the game,free agency, loyalties or lack thereof, may indeed be no different than one of his pitchers who will not adjust his game plan even if he’s getting hit all over the park.

Just because I have this opinion doesn’t mean that I necessarily side with Smoltz on this. He knows where he plays and knows who he plays for. He knows the drill even if he doesn’t like the drill. I’m not sure why he’s surprised, if he is indeed surprised at how the GM is handling this. It’s the GM’s M.O.

I just think the M.O. needs to change.

Just an opinion.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t think A-Rod is that cocky. He is no more cocky than Jeter or Smoltz or Big Pappi. And besides. Can you really blame him for not taking the money? Who here would have turned down $252 million dollars because “it is just way too much money for a ball player”. Please! Give me a flippin break. 99% of the people on here would take the money and run. A-Rod exercise the good capitalism spirit. What is wrong with that? That is why I think you people are out of your mind if you think Andruw would turn down $20 mil from teams like the Yanks and Red Sox if they offered it. Besides Andruw would be perfect for New York because he would just shrug off the media hounds. A-Rod does take things a bit too personal.

By Tom A. Hawk

August 28, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

BravesLifer, I was referring to your 5:57 post about Smoltz. No comment on your ARod-Andruw trade, because it’s useless to speculate on something that won’t happen.

But AMEN on your 5:57!

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this

what? no butter pecan? no publix butter pecan? and what about root beer? no root beer? and what about virignia madsen? she is coming over to jimmy smith’s in a little while for a root beer float. see what you are missing?

By Some guy

August 28, 2006 06:31 PM | Link to this

Is there a real reason to post musical lyrics in your blogs? I don’t see it.

By Brad in KY

August 28, 2006 06:32 PM | Link to this

DOB

I think it’s a bit unfair to accuse Schuerholz of having an ego problem less than 24 hours after Smoltz’ comment.

First, he’s hardly had time to respond to the issue (if he does at all).

Second, I imagine there are policies in place concerning when options and other such contractual matters are dealt with. Following company policy is good business, not an ego problem.

What’s been disappointing about this season (other than the losing) is the foolish, immature and very public comments made by Smoltz and Andruw Jones. The fact that Smoltz can and does say whatever is on his mind isn’t a reflection of his statesmanship or leadership, but, instead, a reflection of his incredible immaturity. One can be honest and “straight” about things without going public. This is, again, the sort of matter that he should approach Schuerholz about through proper channels.

Instead, with the team on the brink of official elimination, Smoltz has created more tension in the clubhouse.

Ridiculous. Simply ridiculous.

By BravesLifer

August 28, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this

Tom A Hawk—thanks…and perhaps I should clarify on the Andruw/A-Rod thing. I don’t think we should make that trade! Just that it crossed my mind. I love Andruw. I’m scared that 155 games a year for the last ten years, and sacrificing of his body in the outfield over that same time are going to start taking away from his performance at some point down the road, but I still love him. Sorry for the confusion!

By MBATL

August 28, 2006 06:39 PM | Link to this

Other posters have made most of the points, so I won’t repeat them; but I think Smoltz is out of line in going public with this kind of thing. Have we ever heard Scheurholz or Cox publicly criticize a player, no matter how much money they were making or how poorly they were performing? I don’t think so. Smoltz has made over $100 million with the Braves; I think he’ll be okay waiting another couple of months to get the guarantee on the next $8 mil.

RJIB, interesting idea on A-Rod, but I’d rather trade AJ for young pitching, and trade the young pitching for a Carl Crawford-type; or, just keep the young pitching and sign Soriano with the leftover $$.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

Oh, the inhumanity! I just got a package from my ex-girlfriend labled “Important Photos-Do Not Bend” and I actually opened it! Aaaaaaaarrrrrrrgggggghhhh! I’ll likely not be back for a while.

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 06:41 PM | Link to this

jjs, would you please ask Virginia if she likes cobbler? And where she stands on the meringue-and-banana-pudding issue? Thanks, buddy. PS…could I have Diane Lane’s phone number now?

By Lew

August 28, 2006 06:41 PM | Link to this

Grinch-Diabetics pretend their is no sugar in Breyer’s ice cream. It is counter productive thinking. Besides, dairy products tend to slow the glycemation process. As a matter of fact, Brownies will jack your blood sugar because of the flour in them, but fudge, which is just sugar and butter won’t. Cheese cake won’t boost your blood sugar, either-it’s protein and fat. It won’t help you lose weight, though.

By supergrass

August 28, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

i dont know if js feelslike next year is the year things fall apart for smoltz, like this year is the year the division title ends, or if he has full authority to pull a deal with the pending sale of the team. smoltz is a great player,as a fan i think his option must be picked up at almost any cost. he should earn clemens type money. Then on the other hand, I understand it’s the way js does business, things are done in the off season. think of how bad the braves home record is, & he has 8 of 12 wins at home. whos the ace of this rotation going to be without smoltz- hampton, hudson, davies, ramirez, thomson, james ? it would really be the beginning of a new chapter.

The Mamas And The Papas - Monday, Monday my aunt suggested it, ive never heard it. my favorite sunday song is sunday morning by no doubt

By mike

August 28, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this

DOB, Best post of the year could not agree. In the spirit of the working man and your love for music. I am 61 and a love for the great ones. So heres my take. Best Concert Yes Second Pink Floyd Most Talented Van Halen with DD Best Warm Up AC/DC in front of Alice Cooper Best Song ever witnessed Emerson Lake & Palmer “Fanfare To The Common Man” Most talented artist “Johnny Lang”

Married for 28 years a winner in every mans studio anything with “Michael Bubble” Out have to take the blood pressure medication.

By T.C.

August 28, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Some guy — Because when a diverse group of intelligent people come together to discuss something they’re passionate about, they often find they have other interests in commen. It’s only human nature to share. My homebrew club gathers to discuss beer and brewing, but more than once topics have skewed toward totally unrealted items that we enjoy. At work, we don’t limit our conversations to “shop talk.” There’s nothing wrong with that. I think the Braves remain the heart of this blog, but if some people enjoy discussing other things they’re passionate about — and can feel free to do so — that’s a good thing. Not trying to offend you … just answering your question.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 06:54 PM | Link to this

I don’t want to trade Andruw either but wake up realize its 2006. Guys talk about loyalty but they don’t mean it. You are crazy if you think Andruw will turn down 19 or 20 mil to stay here for 15 mil. That is simply insane. Players aren’t like they used to be. I personally believe one of the reasons Soriano didn’t want to be traded was because if he was and he didn’t come through like he was supposed to or the team he was traded to didn’t make the playoffs it could somehow hurt his value.

All I’m saying is that if JS doesn’t get the sense that he is 100% certain Andruw will stay then he has to trade him and get something out of him then simply letting him walk via free agency and all we get in return is a draft pick that may or may not ever pan out.

By MBATL

August 28, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this

I used to complain about the ‘off topic’ posts on this blog, but then came to understand that (1) there are some very interesting and intelligent folks posting here; (2) when it’s “game time” the non-baseballers tend to lay low, or stick to the topic of baseball, which is kind of cool on their part; and (3) on off days, or after a bad loss, it’s either varied blogs or no blogs at all.

By elbravox

August 28, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this

Atlanta wins the World Series!! Little league thou.

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 06:58 PM | Link to this

And, SomeGuy, DOB says Schuerholz reads this blog, and I guarantee he gets more gassed over jimmy, Bob, Carolina Lady, and others, than he does over we baseball-spouting bloggers. Probably has a closet passion for Hag and X, too, but I’m just guessin’…

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 07:04 PM | Link to this

BTW, glad MBATL made an appearance. SomeGuy, if you want to check out good baseball posts, look for MBATL, TennesseePaul, nathan, among others. I know I do.

By T.C.

August 28, 2006 07:05 PM | Link to this

P.S. — I’ve been reading and enjoying this blog for awhile, but haven’t really posted before … so I hope I didn’t step on anyone’s toes with my post.

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 07:10 PM | Link to this

TC, you can park that worry. We’re the picture in the dictionary for First Amendment. However, careful of toes and the mention thereof, a sensitive and often-broached subject here on the blog.

By T.C.

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

Gotcha, ncscoots. Will be careful of that one.

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 07:27 PM | Link to this

In case you didn’t catch this at the tail end of the behemoth…

Yo Dave…

I meant to say this in the earlier post, but by the time I started typing, I forgot. Since you’re a big Virginia Madsen fan, you —definitely— need to check “Long Gone” out.

Not only is it one of the best baseball movies ever, but the views of Madsen are triumphant.

By Beachcomber

August 28, 2006 07:31 PM | Link to this

Way to go Columbus! Sweet victory. Say this for the Japanese team - for the first time in several years, the “international champion” looked like a team of kids from the same town as opposed to some of the recent entries that looked suspiously like a national all star team. Same for the Mexican team - you have to love their little catcher - reminded one of a 12-year-old Marcus Giles.

By elbravox

August 28, 2006 07:36 PM | Link to this

I hear Smoltz is going to pony up for Georgia LLWS champs to come to The Ted, maybe they have some good middle relief for the cheap! New young blood never a bad thing. Just hope they do not cry when B.C. goes deep into his nose.

By Spiders9

August 28, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’ve gotta go with the Mamas and Papas Monday song. On the topic of John Smoltz, the GM should pick up the option for next year. He has given us the best chance to win a game each time he takes the mound. And chances are, he will continue to be that consistent next season. This isn’t the first time that JS hasn’t picked up a JS option until,well, everyone was wondering if it indeed would be picked up. I think it will be again. In fact, even baseball being the big business it is, the Braves should do everything possible to keep Smoltz and let him retire as a Brave. At least we’ll know which cap he will wear on his HOF plaque.

By mariner

August 28, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this

Weighing in on the A-Rod discussion. I’d rather not pick up A-Rod in his current mental state. And he might actually be a worse defender this year than Chipper, and no one knows how he’d play returning to short. Another player who is rumored to be on the move in the off-season is Miguel Tejada. I think he’s a better shortstop than Renteria and a better hitter than Andruw. I think he’d fit in nicely at cleanup between Chipper and McCann. The Yankees keep insisting that ARod isn’t going anywhere, but the Orioles seem to be willing to part with Tejada as long as they get equal value. I think AJ and Renteria for Tejada and prospects is equal value for both teams.

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

RJIB,

You know that the Braves were the second highest bidder when the Rangers landed A-Rod…?

By Beachcomber

August 28, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

Just saw a few comments about the Mamas and Papa’s Monday, Monday which gets my vote - my era. But by far their best effort was not one of their major hits but their cover of the old Bobby Freeman Do You Wanna Dance. Just sensational!

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 07:57 PM | Link to this

Grinch,

You are correct. Prance can really play a guitar and he didn’t show it off too much in the studio, but on the full-length version of Purple Rain, he does in the last three minutes or so.

By supergrass

August 28, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

A-Rod might actually be a worse defender this year than Chipper What? AROD is definately worse of a defender this year than chipper.chipper is not a bad defender. why mention chipper as a bad fielder. arod fielding mistakes are magnified in ny, especially with the yanks being in the playoff hunt and the braves not. chipper fielding % .932 (17 errors), arod has 23 errors with a .933 fielding percentage. and their offensive numbers are comparable. considering chipper has spent time on the dl and arod hasnt, 118 hits to arods 134 hits, chipper 21 hr- arod 26 hr.

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 08:01 PM | Link to this

krath,

Very nice post, dude.

Change is life. To grow and survive, we need to know that and stay fluid and nimble.

Que sera…

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this

Grinch, those shells sound great! Love Lasagna, too! Was very please about the award today; you? Would loved to have been a fly on the wall! :-))

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

perhaps she is the perfect woman! she is bright and witty and very beautiful. at first journalist jimmy smith was distracted by her charms but keeping things in perspective journalist sounded out virginia madsen about important considerations. jouralist finds that virginia madsen enjoys a good cobbler - does not tolerate meringue on her banana pudding - and she gives a great back rub. journalist and virginia are just now enjoying a cold, root beer float. this is so nice … wait! what’s that? the doorbell? oh, the humanity! it is diane lane! what will journalist do?

By TommyB

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

Little League World Series on ESPN2!

Better be watchin! Just started…

By ncscoots

August 28, 2006 08:13 PM | Link to this

jjs, now would be the time to clue in to TommyB’s adjuration to be “fluid and nimble”. Hope you’ve read your Sun Tzu and Musashi Miyamoto!

By elbravox

August 28, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this

TommyB, WHATEVER YOU DO, DO NOT SCROLL UP!

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 08:18 PM | Link to this

has anyone heard from journalist guy curtright since the ralph peepers’ pie was delivered? and how is journalist guy reacting to the wurlitzer news today? we must keep journalist guy as a viable journalist when dob is away because it looks like journalist jimmy smith is going to be occupied for awhile …

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this

OMG,

It’s Erin Andrews….

OH, Yeah. : )

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

journalist just heard from journalist bob - it is madeline albright and janet reno at bob’s door! adlai stevenson indeed!

now, baseball … if andruw is gimpy it may be toes - not knees - but toes. if it is toes …

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this

elbravox,

I’ll try. I can’t promise anything. But I WILL try.

By Jt

August 28, 2006 08:35 PM | Link to this

Are you kiddin?!?! Smoltz is cheap- Hudson makes more (0n average), Hampton makes more! Hell, Albie Lopez made $4M! Mussina ($15M, at least)! Randy Johnson($20M?). NOT picking up the option would make NO SENSE! It will be done! That is why he wasn’t traded! Wining is about pitching! John Smolts is pitching! He is relatively cheap! He cannot be replaced at the price he currently makes!He WILL be back.

By MEB

August 28, 2006 08:37 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy… we know the heart of a journalist compels you to blog at a moment like this, but for humanity’s sake, don’t let Virginia catch you at the keyboard. A woman of her considerable talents would not appreciate someone who would blog and tell. Are you saving the Publix Butter Pecan for the coup de grace?

By dadgum

August 28, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this

Congrats to the Georgia LL team! Great win….still would like to see another replay of that shot down third base line by the Japanese player. It hit fair short of the bag crossed over the bag and appeared to catch part of the foul line. Gotta be a reason it was only replayed once. The ump appeared to get almost hit by the shot and may not have been in the best position to call it correctly. Not saying it wasn’t foul or taking anything away from the US team just that I would sure like to see another replay. Hey gotta believe though that we have gotten our fair share of bad calls over the years.

By Lew

August 28, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this

Yes, TC-You must learn that Diane Lane makes lousy Banana pudding, Jimmy likes Publix butter pecan ice cream(from the tub)in his root beer floats, DOB won the Wurlitzer Prize for Music Journalism and making sense of Smoltz quotes, and that Al Gore (damn him, we were blissful in our ignorance) is responsible for Global Warming which caused the glaciers to melt and made the Yaks and Musk Oxen migrate to Cordele, Ga. If you can live with all of this and occaisionally with venom spewing by Scoots, you will be very welcome on this blog. Does this clary the situation? Amen and Selah. Abide with us Dude. Oh yeah, don’t worry about Grinch. We dress him nice and let him out at night. And always be nice to Carolina Lady. Evening, Ma’am.

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 08:46 PM | Link to this

jimmy, there is a conspicuous gap in the coverage of your most interesting evening: what happened when Miss Lane appeared at the door? Are you sure that this is an appropriate situation for the parent of baby seal?? Where is baby seal while you are entertaining?

By Lew

August 28, 2006 08:53 PM | Link to this

Sir Jimmy-I warned you not to let Ralph Peepers send the Foreign Trunk Pie to Journalist Guy Curtright. Now he will never speak to us. If he was afraid to talk before, how do you think he feels now? Is he even able to speak anymore? Enquiring minds want to know. Hopefully you didn’t send him any of Diane Lane’s banana pudding.

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 08:54 PM | Link to this

Hey, Lew! Congratulations on your successful mission today! Well done, my friend!! Think the others should be let in on the recent conspiracy? As lead character it should be your call.

TC, the language is easy to pick up on here. The math can get a little confusing since we use the DOB method here. Poor 10-7-4 wound up as ‘35’ because of all the numbers and the calculation thereof. A nearby dictionary will be handy at times. And we welcome you! Almost forgot: by overwhelming majority the word s-u-c-k is banned from use on the blog, and any use will result in many demerits for the user. (Then you have to clean up the blogcarpet when anyone from outside the Braves Nation stumbles in and makes a mess on it.) :-)))

By Lew

August 28, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

No ma’am-This is DOB’s hour, not mine. I just helped him to realize his efforts are appreciated, as did we all. I think I mentioned before that he won dinner for two to Sizzler and the Complete Works of Zamfir. Besides, Jimmy made me do it.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 08:59 PM | Link to this

carolina lady, jimmy smith cannot talk about that right now (wink, wink).

this is some kind of good butter pecan tonight! what’s that, virginia? out of butter pecan? let’s make our own? oh, the humnity!

By Carolina Lady

August 28, 2006 09:05 PM | Link to this

Jimmy! How are you going to explain all of this to baby seal???

By ncscoots

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

TC, don’t let Lew kid you, I spew seldom, have good toes, and (unknown to jjs) am carrying on torrid secret affairs with Diane Lane, Virginia Madsen, and Janet Reno.

By TheNorthernJackMule

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

Guess DOB wasn’t imaginative enough to write his own blog today—had to butt in on the great journalist Jeff Schultz’s article and blog!

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

journalist is so distracted journalist mis-spelled, humanity! oh, the humanity! don’t worry, carolina lady, baby seal is fine.

what? churn our own? oh, the humanity! virginia, you are going to churn like that?!! baby seal must go to bed!

journalist out!

By brian

August 28, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this

first of all, smoltz should know his Buffet- “Come Monday” - it will be alright of course.

Secondly the braves will only trade Anduw Jones if they are convinced they cannot sign him long term and they can rebuild for the future with top young arms and prospects.

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Gilly.

My kids picked out a new Braves t-shirt with your name and number on the back (which Ms. TommyB just removed the sleeves on).

So, we do hope you’re around. Don’t go runnin’ off to San Diego, eh?

By Kentavo

August 28, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

You guys, get real. There’ll be no wheeling and dealing. Braves will continue the no action status quo again, especially as ownership situation looks to be cloudy. Look for Giles to be traded, and that’s about it. There’ll be no major free agent signing and no blockbuster trades.

By bamabrave

August 28, 2006 09:44 PM | Link to this

DOB:I was just thinking about the future of the Braves and wanted to ask you a question. Have you ever heard Glenn Hubbard indicate that he would be interested in managing one day? Have you ever heard anything from Bobby Cox or J.S. on this subject. I’ve been a Braves fan since the early 70’s and Hubbard has always been one of my all-time favorite Braves players. He always played hard and he got the absolute most out of his abilities. What about Terry Pendleton?

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

I have returned momentarily. The blog must be warned that I have consumed much Hank Jr. whiskey (Journalist Jimmy Beam) in the last couple of hours, and spent entirely too much time looking at old photos and listening to .38 Special, Skynyrd, Blackfoot and Steve Earle. Everybody remember Platoon? No? Good. I feel like the soldier who had his intestines blown all over himself and lay screaming for morphine, only to have a rough-hewn and battle scarred Tom Berenger lean over him, grab his head with one hand, look him dead in the eye and growl “TAKE THE PAIN!” I have stopped screaming, as did the soldier, but my intestines are still exposed, as were his. I have the theme to this movie (Samuel Barber’s addagio) downloaded; I will now listen to it and take more pain. Aaaaaaarrrrrrggggghhhh!

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 09:56 PM | Link to this

Easy there Grinchy…

You have to consider that the packet you received was very carefully crafted to achieve a particular result.

Now, maybe you left HER a hurtin’…?

But if she left YOU a hurtin, you’d better take drastic measures. Heck, even consider headin’ to the Cheetah (fallback is Hooters).

[Ha-Oh… I just made a little mistake. The wife just sat down in time to watch all the cryin’ goin’ on with the end of the LL WS and there was Ms. Erin Andrews. I made the mistake of sayin’ “Hey — remember HER?

Oops. }

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Whew. That hurt enough. Thanks, Tommy. You’re right; though it was actually a mutual thing that package was carefully crafted indeed. She sent me a bunch of photos only chicks think about saving (I didn’t even know they existed) of me and her in every happy moment I can think of, me making a drunken a* of myself happily, me and my former best friend, my poor and now deceased baby bulldog, etc. The return adress was from my former house where she now resides with my former best friend. The kicker is that she sent me a 3’ by 5’ Confederate battle flag to wrap it all in, knowing I’m a millitary historian. The Ginch doesn’t cater to weak-spirited women, and this one hasn’t dissapointed. Anyone feel like getting a good kick in? Now’s the time.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

we must all stand now with grinch. journalist is sending both diane lane and virginia madsen to grinch at this time - well, as soon as the ice cream is churned anyway. this is a magnamimous gesture on the part of jimmy smith - but in reality it would never work with either one. diane lane cannot make pudding and virginia madsen eats far too much ice cream. she is gonna get really big eating so much ice cream. now, baseball … glenn hubbard once assisted with tiny jimmy smith’s baseball team and selected tiny jimmy smith for the traveling squad - so jimmy smith thinks glenn hubbard is a great judge of baseball talent. there are some good candidates to replace bobby cox when the time comes. it will be a tough act to follow - unless the successor can produce a pennant.

By mariner

August 28, 2006 10:14 PM | Link to this

supergrass, I didn’t get your reply to my post and I guess you didn’t get my intention either. I wasn’t ripping on chipper, I was saying to those that want Arod that Arod is not an upgrade over Chipper. But to say Chipper is not a bad defender when he currently ranks as the lowest rated 3B in MLB in terms of fielding percentage doesn’t compute. And according to fpct%, Arod is the second worst 3B. I think you were saying that you would rather have Chipper over Arod, which is all I was saying too.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

I was just throwing the A-Rod thing ut there. I do think its something to think about however. I think A-Rod will be just fine once he gets out of New York. I think his biggest problem there is that he’s in Jeter’s shadow. While he maybe would be in Chipper’s shadow here, Chipper would be much more willing to share the spotlight than Jeter is. Not to mention Yankee fans would never dream of making the comments about Jeter that the people here will make about Chipper. All Yankee fans hold Jeter up as a god.

I just think it would be something to consider. Renteria could be traded for pitching and so could Giles since Prado seems to be ready to take over.

By TommyB

August 28, 2006 10:19 PM | Link to this

Dood,

Follow my example.

LOG OFF NOW.

Then, walk outside and throw your keys out in the bushes.

Grab a book.

Over and out…

TB

By 10-7-4

August 28, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this

Greetings all—am now reporting from Queensland, Australia. Hot tip on the red eared slider proved erroneous. None appear to exist here, however I am happy to report that we have observed the Red Eared Waxbill. The mistake in identity is confusing as the Waxbill is a bird and the slider is a turtle. There seems to be little similarity between the two.We are pondering suggestion that our search continue to south Florida. Will keep all posted. Also Grinch—please be not concerned as the Waxbill seems harmless. Before I go I must report that the buzz on the street is all about our esteemed journalist DOB winning the prestigious Wurlitzer award. Also Drunky Clint has a pretty good buzz going too!!!

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 10:24 PM | Link to this

“Stand up and be counted, for what you are about to receive…” Thank you, Jimmy, for putting different music in my head. AC/DC will now get me to stumble back to the tv and watch my former best friend’s favorite team (We even played the same position) get stomped by Cinncinati. This will bring only a slight respite, but a much welcome one. Perhaps it will last long enough for Miss Lane and Miss Madsen to arrive…wait. Three. Isn’t there a French term for that? Aaaaargh! Go Quick! Melt! Block! Tackle! Hulk Smash!

By mariner

August 28, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

RJIB, I think you’re probably right that Arod will return to norm once he leaves his current situation, the same way Renteria did. And I do think it’s increasingly likely that Arod will be traded in the off-season. He’s very tradeable now that the Rangers are picking up a big chunk of his salary. And normally, I’d be all for adding a player of Arod’s ability. Just don’t know where to play him. I guess your right that he’d go back to short where he was a stellar defender before. And maybe a benefit to that, in my opinion at least, is that you could retain Giles to make an excellent DP combo, and put him back in his more comfortable #2 spot in the order. I really would like to see Giles come back, but he’s blocked by Renteria and his lack of interest in leading off. And you’re right, Renteria could bring a nice return in pitching.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 28, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

grinch, journalist had already posted before reading your last post. tommyb offers good advice. put the package aside and watch some baseball … boston and oakland just getting started.

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 10:27 PM | Link to this

My F-ing keys have a fake hand grenade on them so I will not lose them…detatch…FIRE IN THE HOLE! No keys. Probably none tommorrow. F&%$ Tommorrow anyway. I’ll walk.

By supergrass

August 28, 2006 10:34 PM | Link to this

definately missed your point mariner, thought it was a slap at chipper. ill take the info about the flpc% numbers and just disregard um n say that i watch alot braves games, and chipper handles the hot corner very well-his arm is very strong and his throws are straight to first base. not saying hes the next Brooks Robinson (16 Gold Glove awards & many fielding records for 3b) but hes solid.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

I think getting a player of A-rod’s caliber would put more people in the seats and give an instant boost to the team. Now, this is only if Andruw doesn’t stay. I just think it is quite risky to go on his “word” that he will sign after next season. People, what would you rather have in return for Andruw leaving? A draft pick or A-Rod?

By mariner

August 28, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

i’d rather have Arod than a draft pick, but I’d rather have Tejada than Arod.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 10:55 PM | Link to this

I would take Tejada as well. I have suggested before trading Andruw to the Angels for Howie Kendrick, Chionne Figgins, and Kelvim Escobar. With the extra money we could make a serious run at Soriano. I hear people on here say Soriano is selfish and all that kind of crap but its the furthest thing from the truth. He simply didn’t want to move to left field. Remember neither did Chipper. He was just more vocal about it. Now, while the Nats forced his hand, he hasn’t said a negative word about it since. The Yanks and the Rangers both said that Soriano is a good teammate.

By geauxbraves2000

August 28, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

Unless ARod can play pitch I do not see him in ATL. Renteria is almost free and Chipper is here as long as he wants to be. I don’t think I’d want him anyway, the offense and defense are fine. Pitching, pitching, pitching…

Just my two cents for what it’s worth.

Geaux Braves!!

By The Grinch

August 28, 2006 11:01 PM | Link to this

I’d rather have a football game than this crap they’ve just stopped showing on MNF. I went in there SPECIFFFICALLY to watch my former best friend’s fudge packer’s get stomped, and though they were getting stomped 41-10 with 9:09 left to play they called the game due to dangerous weather. Forget that there’s nos such thing in football/ BRETT FARVE WAS DUE TO GET STRUCK BY LIGHTNING to avenge me, and these weak men blocked the event. These same people who would deny kme GB’s further beating would probnably be the ones who would deny me a continuous and slo-mo beat down of HIM? Unfortunately for me, m y record isn’t good (which he knows) and he’s an even match for me anyway which he knows and she’s equally deserving if not more so but I don’t beat women (which they both know)…man, this F-ing sucks. I’m going to go back outside and spare you all the tirade I’m about toi unleash, ‘cause it’s not fit for a baseball blog and only 3 or 4 of you would care anyway. I’ll come back; this blog will save me from more dastardly pursuits.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this

I really do think a deal with the Angels is worth considering. They have what the Braves need (good young pitching) and we have what they need (a power hitter to compliment Vlad). I believe we could get Escobar or Erwin Santana from them if not both.

Lets say the deal I mentioned earlier were to go through. Since Kendrick would be on the team Giles could be traded for pitching (relief pitching preferably). Imagine this lineup.

LF Soriano CF Figgins 3B Chipper C McCann RF Francoeur 1B LaRoche SS Renteria 2B Kendirck/Prado

Pitching rotation: Smoltz Hudson Hampton Santana/Escobar Davies/James/Ramirez

We could possibly trade Horacio for prospects and then place either James or Davies in the bullpen for insurance

By T Robb

August 28, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

Homeboy sez this blog is off the chain.

By T.C.

August 28, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the welcome from everyone and for the rundown on the usual suspects, Lew.

By the way, I have to agree that I think A-Rod would thrive in Atlanta, although I don’t believe for a moment we’ll see him in a Braves uniform anytime soon. But, interesting to consider. He certainly needs to get out of New York, though.

By T.C.

August 28, 2006 11:42 PM | Link to this

Also, Robert. I could be wrong on this, but the Braves could also very well end up with nothing if Andruw signed elsewhere. They wouldn’t even get the draft pick if they didn’t offer him arbitration (I’m almost certain). And if they were sure he wouldn’t sign at a discount, I could see them not offering him arbitration after the Greg Maddux situation from a couple years ago when he surprised everyone by accepting.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 28, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

Well, the Marlins won again tonight. Lets hope the Braves can get on a roll. It truly is now or never. They have 10 HUGE games coming up against the Giants, Phillies, and Mets. I think they need to win at least 7 of them. But, I don’t think they can think like that. I think when they say we have to win 7 of 10 or 8 of 11 they put too much pressure on themselves. They have to take it game by game and play each game like its the last one. They have 33 games left. I don’t think its unreasonable to believe they can go 22-11 in those games. If they can do that, that would put them at 83 wins. Will that be enough to win the wild card? It could be. The NL West teams will beat each other up and the Reds will get beaten up by those same west teams they have to play. The wild card in the wildcard is the Marlins.

The one thing is no matter how bad or how good a team is every team peaks during a season. Even the Royals peaked back right before the all-star break when they won 11 of 16 or something to that effect. I don’t think the Braves have peaked yet. I have serious doubts that they cna pull this off. But, we will now see what they are made of. The Giants come in as a very hot team but truthfully they are not a good team. The Braves should at least take 2 of 3.

Of the reamining 33 games the Braves have 19 of them at home. If they can get over this complex they have at home, there is no reason they can’t go lets say 14-5 at home the rest of the way. Then if they could go 10-4 in the reaming road games that would actaully put them at 24-9 to end the season. Seems like a big task but can be done. 24 wins would place them at 85 wins. I guarantee the winner of this wild card will win with no more than 86 wins. The Braves still have a shot but the time is now!

If nothing else, they end the season on a high note and carry the momentum into next season.

By David O'Brien

August 28, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly _ DING DING DING. You’re the winner, my man. “Come Monday” is one of my favorite old songs, man. LOVE that song. Can’t believe I forgot it when I was trying to think of Monday songs. That song sticks in my brain, and that’s a good thing.

I just got home, been out tonight (Miami Vice is a pretty solid flick) and just cattching up on posts from 4:30 on.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly _ DING DING DING. You’re the winner, my man. “Come Monday” is one of my favorite old songs, man. LOVE that song. Can’t believe I forgot it when I was trying to think of Monday songs. That song sticks in my brain, and that’s a good thing.

I just got home, been out tonight (Miami Vice is a pretty solid flick) and just cattching up on posts from 4:30 on.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:09 AM | Link to this

TennPaul, agreed this is nothing that’s going to keep Smoltz from coming back, from Schuerholz exercising the option.

And hey, we’re not overhyping it. Smoltz said it, Schultz quoted him, I’m doing a silly blog, end of it. Not planning to do a bunch of news stories following up on it or anything.

Just having some fun … homeboy.

Oh, and if I were you, McCann’s the guy. He’s an absolute can’t-miss star for a long time, or the closest you’ll get to can’t-miss. Kid’s got it all, and an absolutely humble, down-to-earth class act. Parents raised that boy well.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:12 AM | Link to this

Supergrass, how ‘bout Sunday, Bloody Sunday by the lads from Dublin? Of course, it’s not really about Sundays, per se, but rather a specific horrific event on a particular Sunday.

But what a great song, despite its ubiquity (nice word this late, eh?)

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

Ptown Bravo _ outstanding, the Prine cut “Long Monday” off his latest. Great CD, by the way, don’t you think? Saw him in Houston this summer after a Braves day game, with Todd Snyder opening. What a show. Prine played a bunch of stuff off the new CD _ including the song about a certain guy who lives in Crawford, Texas _ and a lot of his old nuggets.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 29, 2006 12:20 AM | Link to this

DOB, if Andurw doesn’t committ to signing an extension this winter and it looks like he would be leaving after 2007 and the Yanks are interested in trading A-Rod, which I think they will be, what are the chances JS would consider a trade for the two? The salaries are basically the same since the Rangers are paying part of A-Rod’s salary. I realize Renteria is here but this is A-Rod and Renteria could be traded for pitching.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this

Braveslifer, you’re right, I don’t get caught up in the emotion of these things. But this is a special, special case. This is like San Diego and Tony Gwynn, or Kansas City and George Brett.

Andruw’s been here HALF as long as Smoltz, basically. And Andruw doesn’t have an option year on his contract. And he’s 30, not 39, with no surgeries, not four elbow surgeries. And he’s making $13.5 mill next year, while Smoltz is making $8 mill if they pick up the option.

Chipper is a valid comparison. But the difference is, Smoltz is still at the top of his game, grinding out more inning that anybody on the team. Chipper, as great as his season has been when healthy, has missed a lot of time each of the past three seasons, and the Braves are going to be paying him $11 mill each of the next two seasons before his option year.

I stand by my point _ Smoltz is a special, special case, and John S. (GM John) could just tell him privately not to worry about it, it’s going to be picked up. Or he could have. Now it’ll be tough to do that. Because Home Depot called him homeboy.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:24 AM | Link to this

Some guy: is there a reason to post lyrics on the blog? Of course. I want to.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:26 AM | Link to this

Oh, and Some Guy: Is there a reason for you to complain about the song lyrics when you folks were asked specifically not to whine about the song lyrics but to just skip over them?

And if you don’t have anything to post about the Braves or pie, don’t post. Just read, please.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:28 AM | Link to this

Grinch, very basic and so-true point: Andruw’s cool and A-Rod’s not. I love it. Sometimes, things are simple.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:31 AM | Link to this

Lew, regarding Taco Bell: No fish tacos at Taco Bell. That’s a negative.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:33 AM | Link to this

MBATL: Good point about Schuerholz. Say what you will about him _ personally, I think he’s outstanding _ but the man never criticizes players publicly. Never says anything derogatory about a player, even after he falls on his face like Jorge Sosa.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 12:36 AM | Link to this

Or BBQ and sweet tea. Good night.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:37 AM | Link to this

Brad in KY, I didn’t say Schuerholz had an ego “problem.” I said he and Smoltz both have big egos. Big deal. Schuerholz would admit as much. It’s served him well. I just think right now, it’d be best to swallow pride and give Smoltz the damn option, since Smoltz obviously feels slighted or underappreciated or whatever. Just make the man happy and be done with it.

By mariner

August 29, 2006 12:39 AM | Link to this

Schuerholz may not say anything bad about players, which is a great quality. But, he does trade them, release them, send them down, etc when he has issues with their performance. When a player has issues with a GM’s performance, those options aren’t open to him, can’t fire the GM. So, he exercises the only real power he has which is to sound off. Everybody likes to exercise the power they do have from time to time. Hopefully, Smoltz feels better now, and JS will shrug it off.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:40 AM | Link to this

Robert, personally I don’t think any team’s gonna offer Andruuw $19 mill or $20 mill. Great as his defense still is, he’s too streaky and hits for too low an average to be lumped into the small group of the most elite all-around hitters. He’s not Pujols, let’s put it that way.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:43 AM | Link to this

Tommy B, I will be headed to Blockbuster for “Long Gone,” my friend. You’ve said enough. The “triumphant views” sold me.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

August 29, 2006 12:44 AM | Link to this

DOB, do you think Andruw could command more than the 15 mil the Braves would likely offer to him or that we could get an A-Rod or Soriano for?

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:49 AM | Link to this

Grinch, how were the pix?

Jimmy, Va. vs. DL. Tough, tough call. Gotta go VA at this stage of the game.

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 12:51 AM | Link to this

Congratulation’s to my HOMEBOY’S , my hometown northern little league world champion’s !!! yea , way to go guys !

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:55 AM | Link to this

Grinch, nevermind about the pix. I just read your followup. I feel your pain.

Now, if you’re done with those photos, you might want to send a couple of the better ones my way…

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 12:56 AM | Link to this

I am more tame now. I busted a good quarter of the right side of my tool shed up wityh an axe handle. I then went inside and ate a lot. Whiskey, then trying to put shells in the oven. I am now burned. Nothing brings a drunk back to the present like a borderline second degree burn. F%$# this hurts. Not like I need my right hand, or anything. I DIDN”T CALL HER, though; I took the pain like Tom Berenger told me to. I will have sheels shortly and the scars to prove it. Oh, man, why did Allison Krauss have to come up on my shuffle thing?…

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:57 AM | Link to this

Mariner: Agreed, I’d take Tejada over A-Rod and all his baggage in a heartbeat. No contest.

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 12:59 AM | Link to this

I’ll send you pics, Dave; they don’t call me Grinch for nothing. B%#@$.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:59 AM | Link to this

And that concludes my experiment in rapid-fire blog responding, which I don’t think I’ll ever repeat again. I’m exhausted.

Good night, homeboys and girls. I’ve got a Billie Holiday CD with my name on it, ready to put me to sleep.

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 01:06 AM | Link to this

Give a white boy your e-mail adress and I’ll even send you video. HA! I’ve suddenly found a way to get back…Oooooohhhhh, yeah. God bless the internet. Yes, she’s worth looking at, and yes, she really compromised herself in front of the Grinch’s video camera. She messed with the wrong Dr. Seuss character…

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 01:11 AM | Link to this

Dude, you are seriously funny. Messed with the wrong Dr. Seuss character…. That’s rich.

Abiding dude, out.

By Tonight on HBO

August 29, 2006 01:17 AM | Link to this

“Unchained adultress” (2006) A saasy little waif (Lindsey Lohan) tangles with the wrong older “Guy” (The Grinch) and has her most intimate moments exposed for the world to see…she looks for support from her new boyfriend (Gilbert Gottfried) but he only recieves a beat-down from the freshly enchanted reporter (Dave O’Brien). How does she deal with it? How, Indeed. Find out Tuesdat at after a safe time. Ebert says it has a home-movie like look, having been produced by the leading actor. Like the “Blair Witch Project,” ‘cept it doesn’t suck. Well, some of it does…

By mariner

August 29, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this

wow. reds, padres, phillies all lose tonight meaning braves are only 3 back in the loss column.

By Tonight on HBO

August 29, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

Owwww. Ow. Owwwwwwwwwww. Back to the pictures again. OOOOWWWWWW. This Hurts. It must be like Chopthis’s first experience with his boyfriend/husband. OOOOOOWWWWWWW!!!!!!! MAKE IT STOP! PUH-LEEEEZZZEEEEE!!!!! Oh, the F-%$# humanity!!!!!!!!!

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 01:55 AM | Link to this

That wasn’t me, CL, it was HBO. Really. Allow me to send you a pie, as you seem to be the only decent female I know. It’ll have to be an Edward’s, as I can’t bake. Man, I can sure be pathetic. I try, though. I think I’m shooting too high in the looks department and not enough in the character dept. I think I done got the blues. The DELTA blues. Sheeee. Gotta go.

By gpburdell

August 29, 2006 03:52 AM | Link to this

congratulations to the LLWS champs. as a native of columbus, it was as exciting as it was in 95 with the braves. it all comes down to pitching and timely hitting. hopefully the bravos can do the same thing and make this thing interesting. now if my yellow jackets beat notre dame this saturday, this will be a good week. go jackets, sting’em!

By Nikki

August 29, 2006 06:01 AM | Link to this

Words like the “homeboy” comment would have meant that player being in another clubhouse the following year. However, this is John Smoltz, a community leader and beloved by all. The Braves should pick up his option. The FO doesn’t need anymore bad PR. Failure to make the necessary moves last offseason is what cost the Braves this season. How could JS go in to spring training of this season without having done ANYTHING about a hideous bullpen?! At least get the Smoltz situation resolved by picking up the option.

By StinkinChickenFeet

August 29, 2006 06:04 AM | Link to this

In Guy Curtright’s article John Schuerholz wonders how many World Series the Braves would have won had he acquired Barry Bonds—Well, I wonder how many World Series they would have won over the years had he acquired that one player that the Braves always seemed to lack. That one hitter, or lead off man, or starting pitcher, and most recently a closer, and a decent bullpen!…OK Sorry if I veered off the soap opera or music critique theme for just a moment!

By ssiscribe

August 29, 2006 06:38 AM | Link to this

Morning, homeboys and homegirls of the blogosphere. Time to go play journalist in a few minutes, but first …

— Grinch, man, that sucks, bro. Sorry for you. Sending you pics is dirty pool. Been there before, through a really, really crappy breakup. Two months later, I met my wife. All shall be well again, my friend.

— Do you guys realize, for all the ups and downs and teeth-gnashing and hair pulling of this season, that the Braves are THREE games out in the loss column? I’ve been saying for two months if the Braves could be within three games or so by Labor Day, they’d have a chance.

— And, while it seems we’ve said it every series the past two months, the three-gamer with Barroid and the Aging Giants has to be the biggest three games of the season. Bravos HAVE to get at least two and preferably all three before hitting the road.

— May go tomorrow night. May stay home. Heading out of state for Labor Day weekend (because, for the first time in forever, I actually have all three days of Labor Day weekend off, horray!) and the wife wants to save the cash. Me, I’m back home, and the race is (hopefully) about to be joined again. Let’s go!

A good day to all, and to all, a good pie.

—30—

By SaltyDog55

August 29, 2006 07:17 AM | Link to this

Come Monday…yep, good call. That’s a winner…I’ll be humming it the rest of the day.

By dadgum

August 29, 2006 08:07 AM | Link to this

In speculating about Andruw it certainly is conceivable he will be signed prior to 2007 season. In fact it would probably benefit him to resign early monetarily. By giving the Braves a small “hometown” discount he would be signed certainly through 2010 at say 14mil structured someway. Not shabby. Say he plays next year and falls off or worse - gets hurt. Then his value falls obviously. If he is traded and has an off year then he will likely not resign at anywhere near what he would get by signing early with the Braves. Boras should be telling him to sign early and be thankful….oh wait that’s right his agent is Boras. Never mind. Wish BORAS was an acronym for -Better Off Resigning And Stay.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 08:24 AM | Link to this

She would never say where she came from.

Yesterday dont matter if its gone.

While the sun is bright,

Or in the darkest night,

No one knows.

She comes and goes.

Goodbye, ruby Tuesday.

Who could hang a name on you?

When you change with every new day,

Still Im gonna miss you…

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 08:34 AM | Link to this

Bye-bye, miss American pie.

Drove my chevy to the levee,

But the levee was dry.

Them good old boys were drinkin’ whiskey and rye,

And singin’, this’ll be the day that I die…

This’ll be the day that I die.

By TommyB

August 29, 2006 08:35 AM | Link to this

SSIScribe,

It is a different world when Ray Durham is more of a threat than is Bonds, isn’t it?

By SaltyDog55

August 29, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

If we’re staying on musical theme, then I’m covering the whole week…Lady Madonna…Beatles.

By chris

August 29, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

Why not make a wise decision and give Smoltz the money he well deserves. He’s busted his tail and mgmt is having a problem paying half price for him. The past decisions were inexcusible, i.e. Betimet, etc….we always trade an up and coming young player to keep a veteran with slipping abilities………….why??

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 08:56 AM | Link to this

Perhaps Smoltz is echoing Aimee Mann’s haunting lyrics from the ‘til tuesday song “Voices Carry.”

“Do you hear me?

Do you care?”

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 08:59 AM | Link to this

Since we seem to be in a rut musically, I guess since I’ve gotten to work, I can lament “Tuesday’s Gone”-Skynyrd

By Jeff

August 29, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this

No one on this club should be untouchable, not Smoltz, a certain Hall of Famer. Look, the Braves need to buold around the core of good young players that they have on the roster and coming up through the farm system. I bet Smoltz could fetch a couple of top notch young arms from, say, Boston. By the time the Braves are competitive again, Smoltz and C. Jones will be old warriors with a lot less left to contribute. Right now, Smoltz is attractive on the market. If he’d agree to a trade, it may help the Braves for a decade to come.

By Zed

August 29, 2006 09:08 AM | Link to this

Georgia teams are 2-0 in LLWS Championships when making it to Williamsport, while the Braves are 1-14 when making it to the postseason. Maybe the Columbus, GA team should be the one sending the Braves a good luck DVD versus the other way around.

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 09:10 AM | Link to this

VOR-I think those came from “What are words for”?

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

as in

no one notices/I think I’ll dye my hair (Braves) blue…

By Louis Vales

August 29, 2006 09:12 AM | Link to this

Having grown increasingly tired about hearing how a team with just one player—Larry—making more than ENTIRE Marlins roster and how they can’t compete with these restrictions, I really hope they extend him about 3 years out for 35 million and when the elbow inevitably blows out we can expect the charitable Smoltz to return part of the money. Right?? Right?? After all Smoltzy has Never been about the money. He jusat wants to compete.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

Yes Rodger, you are correct… Allow me to correct that:

Perhaps Smoltz is echoing Dale Bozzio’s haunting lyrics from the Missing Persons’ song “Words.”

“Do you hear me?

Do you care?”

Of course, that blows my Tuesday tie-in… Oh, well…

By Dirty Dawg

August 29, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

Why would Smoltz do it? Has he gotten into the Jesus Juice a bit too much? Is he trying to ‘big dog’ J.S., just to show him he can? Surely he knows that if he’s able to pitch he’ll get paid more money than a ‘mega-church preacher’ next year - no matter where it is.

No, my guess is he wants to get under J.S.’s skin enough to get traded to Detroit before the end of the season so he can be assured of pitching in the post season now…and I’ll bet Jim Leyland would just love to have a few prayer meetings around the clubhouse in the playoffs.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

Louis Vales - I believe that when you speak of a guy who has done everything, everything, that this team has ever asked of him, (and then some,) who will make a comparatively paltry sum of $8M next year - Roger Clemens’ ridiculous $20,000,022 contract pays him more than $12M for 3 meaningless months - it is asinine to insinuate that he is all about the $$$.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 09:44 AM | Link to this

…of course that should have read “Roger Clemens’ ridiculous $22,000,022 contract..

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 09:46 AM | Link to this

DD - what’s the point in slammin’ the guys faith?

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 09:53 AM | Link to this

The chance of Smoltz getting to D-town at this time is…0, zero, ZERO!!

Someone made a point, and it may have been on Shultz’s blog, that maybe he’s trying to get the team’s mind off the stress of every game-must win. Or, JS didn’t think JS would make a big deal out of JS…huh?

Maybe he just needs a slice of pie!

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

All I care to say it this. 2007 is win it all and regardless of the outcome they will still be rebuilding after the season is done because Andruw , Hampton , Renteria and Smoltz are probably gone after the 2007 season.

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Dirty Dawg, I’m very gently asking that you refrain from using the name of Jesus flippantly, derogatorily, or disrespectfully. There are many who find such use extremely offensive, including me. You probably meant for it to be funny, but you missed badly. I sure appreciate it. :-)

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 10:09 AM | Link to this

I should clarify that Smoltz, Andruw and Renteria’s contracts are up after 2007 and Hampton is under contract till 2008 with a club option for 2009. My assertion is unless he has a great comeback season they will probably try to trade his contract. I just wanted to make it clear , 2007 is do or die because trying to resign Andruw , Smoltz and Renteria under the current payroll restrictions is nearly impossible.

By Lew

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

Morning, Ma’am-Looks like everyone’s dander is up again. Head Cocach-Hampton and Renteria are under contract for 08. To the person talking aboput trading Betemit to keep an aging veteran-Did you mean Chipper? Please re-enter earth orbit before you forever float away. As far as trading Smoltz and Andruw-Who do you think we will be offered in return. We were offered didly for Andruw, if you remember. Do you really think someone will offer us the 3 prospects and cash for Smoltz that someone mentioned yesterday? You people really need a reality check. You all think that teams are going to give us the world for our old, highly paid players( yes I know Andruw is 29, but…)? Other teams are looking for just what we want, too. They are not going to give up that kind of talent unless they have a real shot this year. That limits it to the usual suspects, most of whom need all of their good players and half of whom have no farm system. Again, please return to earth atmosphere. You’re dreaming.

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Mornin’, Lew! Hope you’re well this morning!

Poor Grinch! I sure hope you meet the perfect lady real soon.

And I sure hope this confrontation between the 2 JSs ends quickly! I gather there is little-to-no communication between the front office and the team. Too bad.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 29, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

carolina lady, hello! journalist is ashamed that journalist’s head was turned by the beautiful hollywood starlet. while she is lovely, man, can she eat ice cream! now that she has discovered butter pecan she will surely pack on the pounds. ernesto is coming, right? better gather the red eared sliders while there is time. stay safe. jjs.

By Sean T. O'Brien

August 29, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

Smoltz was annoyed the Braves hadn’t picked dup his option and made a flippant reference to “homeboy” (and might have been thinking how nice it would be riding the Tiger to the Series). JS was annoyed at the third time this season Smoltz had free advice for the front office and made a flippant comment about all the “assistant general managers.”

To make much more of this than just a couple of flip comments uttered middle of a difficult season is wasted worry. Blog stew, little more.

By NYC#1

August 29, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

Hey look at the bright side brave fans. They didn’t lose yesterday.

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

‘Morning, jjs! You’re forgiven your indiscretion…..again…. :-)))))))

Sure hope ol’ Ernesto has blown itself out by the time it gets up here. The excessive rain would not be real good right now. The ground is right squishy from recent heavy rain and more rain with high wind pulls tree roots right out of the ground and over they go. The pond is over it’s banks now. Not a good time for tropical rain!

I keep a hurricane box stocked at all times, have extra lamp oil, wicks, etc. All I have to do is fill water containers.

I’m concerned about PENN, flbravesgirl, bc, and our other friends in FL. Stay safe, y’all! Let us know how you fare.

Gotta go cut grass. It’s a whole lot easier to clean up storm debris if the grass is freshly mowed.

:-)))

By journalist jimmy smith

August 29, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

has dob confronted chip caray about the pet bunny? this must be done. bad for the team to have their announcer with such a pet. imagine the late jose guillen sliding into chipper and saying, “your announcer has a bunny!” this is not the right image for such a team. wickman has no bunny.

By KC

August 29, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this

Trade Smoltz?? It would appear that Smoltzy still has at least a couple more great seasons left in him, and being as though he is the most prolific post-season pitcher in the history of the game… does it make sense for any team with a stated goal of winning the World Series to seriously entertain trading a John Smoltz? I don’t see where that makes sense. If the Braves didn’t have a solid core of young talent both at the major and minor league levels (if the Braves were… the Giants), I might be willing to consider the notion that we should abandon all hope of winning the World Series over the next 2-3 years, trade our veteran stars, and rebuild for the future. But there is absolutely no reason for the Braves to do that at this point. Next year, the Braves will take the field with some great young talent, anchored by solid veterans. Does that formula sound familiar? Anyone remember 1991? 1995?

In regard to trading A.Jones… I’m not completely opposed to it if we could get the proper return, but only if we could get the proper return.

Personally, I think we should go after Soriano this winter. Offer him the kind of money you would offer Andruw next winter. If he decides to leave the Nats, he will probably get offers from 20 different teams… so it’s a long shot however you slice it. But if we could land him, then we could definitely look at trading Andruw. Would I rather have Soriano than Andruw? I’m not sure. Would I rather have Soriano plus the talent we could get in return for Andruw instead of Andruw? Yup, absolutely.

By KC

August 29, 2006 11:04 AM | Link to this

Jeff Shultz was wrong (as he often is)… this race is not “over”.

The Braves are now only 3 games back in the loss column. (The loss column is the most important thing to look at if you’re planning on winning more game than you lose… which of course the Braves will have to).

The Braves are still very much in this thing. But really, standings be damned… they’ve just got to play great baseball. I don’t think there’s any team in this wild Card race capable of playing .650 baseball or better for the rest of the season… except maybe the Braves. Please don’t miss my use of the word “maybe”. I happened to think that the Braves are still capable of very much more than what they’ve shown us all season long, and it’s not too late to turn it on. Will they turn it on? Who knows. As I’ve said before, I certainly wouldn’t bet anything valuable on this team playing to their potential now. They haven’t done it all year, so there’s no reason to predict that they will finally start firing on all cylinders now.

But the fact remains, they are capable of blowing past every other team in the WC race. They do have the ability to do it, and that’s the only thing still holding my interest in this 2006 season.

By KEN

August 29, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this

‘Well I see when certain opinions are posted that may have some validity homeboy has people in places that allows them to go away like he allows outstanding ballplayers to meander away. I still am of the opinion that this whole thing is centered around Johnny’s little boy in the minors, to whom he is biologically indebted to to make every possible effort to ensure he is in the ATL next April. See nepotism is as old as the oldest professional boys and girls. When one takes his or head out of the cloud and analyze the situation, it’s clear that John has done nothing but sat in the big cushy office like a certain “oilman” and suckled all the enthusiasm out of any thing that walks into Turner Field. It’s funny how travelling around the country everyone everywhere else notices that he is a farce but the people of “Sonny’s state” keep giving this guy a stay of execution, sort of a roll over type. Never have I seen someone so stingy with someone else’s money. Never will he roll up his sleeves and tangle with the Cashman’s of rhe world. Believe it or not a lot of great ballplayers will come to play Atlanta because of the amenities the city offer, beautiful city, nice homes, schools etc. He might not realize that players are people with lots of money but they want the house, wifey, kiddies to be somewhere that conducive to good living. But you won’t know until you ask. It’s not about the money all the time and if it is check this out. One Atlanta dollar has the value of 2 NY dollars and let’s not think California or Massachusetts, so if he quit being a scary cat and talk rather than being his same arrogant butthole we’d be polishing more that one wheel on this Braves car. Heck it’ll be a classic befor we get the other three just toget to the parade. Ask the players, GAnt, Dye, even Murph. Team Killer. BUT DON’T FORGET THIS IS ABOUT HIS SON GETTING TO THE BIGS AT ANY COST. ASK HIM IF HE THINKS HIS BOY WILL BE WITH THE BIG CLUB IN APRIL AND DON’T LET HIM TALK HIS WAYAROUND A DIRECT ANSWER AND SEE FOR YOURSELF. THOSE ARE NOT EARS ON HIS HEAD NO SIREE BUDDY, THEY ARE HORNS HE DON’T AS IN THE WORDS OF RHETT “GIVE A DAMN” KEN DOES. IT HURTS TO BUY TICKETS AND SEE MEDIOCRITY, MY BOSS WOULD HAVE LONG AGO SAID GOODBYE TO ME AND MY UNEMPLOYMENT RAN OUT. THANK GOD FOR GOOD WORK ETHICS OR MY YOUNGUNS WOULD BE COUNTING THEIR RIBS. LET’S PUT JOHNNY ON NOTICE: YOU ARE GOING TO STOP ROBBING US ANDGET TO WORK

By Lew

August 29, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

Yes, Let us hope the storm hits the Bahamas and not Florida. I still have storm damage from two years ago. I do not want my son and daughter in law gone with the wind. Jimmy-Give Chip a break. The bunny probably belongs to his young twins. Parents do strange things for their children’s benefit. Besides, it may be an attack rabbit. I once owned a bunny. It was schizoid. We got it from the psychology lab at Mercer. Of course, a schizoid rabbit is not a safe pet for young children-or college students. They can turn psychopathic at the twitch of an ear. KC- I can’t understand the tear down to build up philosophy here either. I think everyone just needs to get a grip and realize that NO ONE wins every year. No one has ever won as much as the Braves have. It couldn’t go one forever, but that doesn’t mean that we are doomed for millenia to come, either. Sit back fans. Breathe deeply. See, isn’t that better?

By TennesseePaul

August 29, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

KC: I hope the Braves can make it. I agree, mathematically, they aren’t out of it. But they have to show me the money. It’s on the pitching staff. Every last pitcher in the system. Smoltz is showing them how hard they have to work every outing. They need to take his example and apply it across the board.

DOB: Yes. McCann is certainly up there. Every time the guy catches and hits, hell, even when he runs the bases, he does a good job. His draw back on the base paths is his speed, but he doesn’t screw up by making bad choices out there. At least I haven’t seen any. He has good base-running knowledge, just doesn’t have the gittyup to really highlight it.

Let’s do this tonight Bravos! I wanna see a “W”!

GO BRAVES

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

Uh, Ken… huh?

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

KEN-did JS forget to draft you? Or cut you out of the will? Man, I think you’ve been watching too much OS (Oliver Stone) to come up with conspiracies like that!

By Lew

August 29, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

Ken-Are you the reincarnation of my schizoid rabbit? Where in the universe did you ever come up with a theory that is not only insane, but imaginative to the point of absurdity? Jonathan Schuerholz is a marginal second baseman at best and I’m sure he has nothing whatsoever to do with any moves being made by the Braves. If they do, in fact, trade Marcus, it will be because Prado Aybar and Escobar are in the pipeline-not Jonathan Schuerholz. Also, if you really knew diddly about the Braves, you would realize that Murphy was traded (yes, a terrible trade), before JS even became GM. As far as Gant, the damn fool broke his leg in a motorcycle accident in the offseason, couldn’t play for a whole year and had his contract cancelled because he engaged in prohibitive behaviour (riding motorcycles). Dye was a rookie with the Braves and brought more mature talent and was not even a factor for anyone for a number of years after the trade. If you are going to make such bombastic statements, try, at least, to get a vague look at the facts first.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

Oh, Ken-Does your boss know you are spending his time blogging absurdities? Are you sure you even approach mediocrity? Enquiring minds really don’t care.

By Rob S.

August 29, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

I seriously don’t get this big deal over “homeboy.” It’s a term of endearment. He was wondering when his good friend upstairs was going to pick up his option. Jeez.

By KC

August 29, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

TennPaul: I agree… It is all about the pitching.

Tim Hudson has been the ace the Braves need him to be in the month of August (2.97 ERA this month), and he’s got to keep that up. Chuck James has been solid of late (3.07 ERA in August), and that too has to continue.

And we will need at least one more guy to step up. When I say step up… I think a 4th starter who can post an ERA of around 4.00 would be about as much as the Braves (or any team in baseball) can ask of a 4th starter. Were Villareal’s first 2 starts in a Braves uni more indicative of what he can do as a starter, or can we expect more of what we saw in his last start? Can Kyle Davies provide a boost for this rotation? Will HoRam be able to return next month (and yes, that is still a possibility)? We’ll just have to wait and see, but I feel pretty good about our rotation right now.

Now for the big question facing the Braves pitching staff… Has anyone seen a reliable reliever not named Bob Wickman?? Personally, I haven’t lost faith in Danny Baez. Whenever we can get him back, I think that will be a big plus. Problem is… we don’t know exactly when we can expect him back. Certainly if we don’t win the Wild Card, 2006 for the Braves will be known as the year of the incredible perpetually imploding bullpen. Maybe JS can pull off a waiver wire deal for some more middle relief. That’d be nice.

By madaboutmaddux2

August 29, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this

Why is anyone surprised that the “great” Schuerholz has not spoken with Smoltz about picking up his option??

He used Maddux the very same way.. Didn’t talk to him about a contract after the 2003 season.. Never so much as ask Maddux want it would take to keep him a Brave…

This is just routine for Schuerholz: use them up, then throw them away…

This should be a real lesson for the team..

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 12:02 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to the fans of LLWS champs, Columbus, Georgia. Though I am from Oregon I wasn’t happy with the Oregon team’s coach negative approach to coaching - cussing out his pitcher, berating kids for striking out. Thank god they didn’t have a mic on him after his son made an error on a bad hop. On the other hand the Columbus coach was positive and constructive. Good guys do not win.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

Niki, regarding your 6:01 A.M. post (6:01 a.m.? yikes), in which you said JS (GM) did nothing to fix the ‘pen last winter. Apparently you forgot about the signing of Mike Remlinger (wink).

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

oops. Good guys do win.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Good Afternoon, DOB-Are you experiencing post-Wurlitzer bliss today? Have you listened to Zamfir, yet? Have you gotten any read on WHY the improvement to our bullpen only included Remlinger? If money was available, one would think we could have found something between Billy Wagner and Mike Remlinger.

By gpburdell

August 29, 2006 12:18 PM | Link to this

every time i start to write off the braves, the teams in front of them in the WC keep losing. you know, if no one else wants it, maybe the braves should just go out and take it…starting tonight would be good.

By 10-7-4

August 29, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

A little country guitar music please,maestro.— I’ve had choices, since the day that I was born. There were voices, that told me right from wrong. If I’d had listened I wouldn’t be here today, livin and dying, with the choices I’ve made. Thank you all, and goodbye.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 12:21 PM | Link to this

I am impressed withe breadth of music knowledge on the Monday music theme.I can’t come up with any song not mentioned. I will go with “Come Monday” as my favorite. I wonder which is the biggest seller? I would probably be wrong. The biggest selling cd of all time is the eagles greatest hits. Someone said they must have sold a ton on BMG’s 12 for 1 site.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:24 PM | Link to this

Ken, I just got to your epic post full of sound and fury and signifying NOTHING. Seriously, dude, that’s an absolutely awful, illogical post. We may have to block your IP address just because it was so embarrassing.

As Lew correctly pointed out, Dye was a bust for several years, so bad that Oakland dumped his huge contract and paid a lot of it for him to go away. So that point makes no sense. None. Zero.

To anyone else bringing up Dye’s current resurgence as a black mark against the Braves _ you’re wrong. In the eight seasons after Dye left Atlanta, he hit more than 27 homers in ONE SEASON until breaking through with 31 last year for Chicago, three teams later.

In his past four seasons before this year, he hit .252, .172, .265 and .264.

THE MAN HAD A CAREER .334 on-base percentage and .469 slugging percentage in 10 MAJOR LEAGUE SEASONS BEFORE THIS YEAR, for God’s sake. MEDIOCRE 10-year NUMBERS. So stop with that revisionist history.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 29, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

There were loved ones (Maddux,Betimit, Furcal) But I turned them all away…. Now I’m living and dying, with the choices I’ve made (Sosa, Pratt) I’ve had choices since the day that I was born there were voices (bloggers) that told me right from wrong….. If I had listened, no I wouldn’t be here today (61-68)living and dying with the choices I’ve made….

By Braves20

August 29, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

Ahh the Giants - one of those 25 cabs to the ballpark teams. More head cases than the rest of the NL combined. But whether we win or lose, we get treated to the best fielding shortstop this side of Ozzie Smith. The man is incredible. Why would the Indians ever let him get away?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 29, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

Good call 35…..

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

DOB, Listening to Todd Snider. my generation (part 2) I can see why Buffett and Prine were both trying to sign him to their labels. He is coming to a great small venue in Portland in Oct. Thanks for the recommendation.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 29, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

Good call 35 Possum…..

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

35 _ that George Jones song, “Choices,” is absolutely incredible. God, I love that song and so relate to every line. Beautiful. And the Possum’s voice is so very strong singing those wrenching lyrics.

Lew, it’s pretty simple: Braves weren’t prepared for the explosion of the relief market last winter, remember when all those setup guys, and the few available closers, were getting 50 percent or more than everyone believed the market would dictate (if you don’t remember, trust me, it happened)? Well, the Braves wouldn’t budge and pay more than they thought guys were worth, and as a result they lost out on everyone from Hoffman and Wickman to Farnsworth (probably good they did) and Gordon.

Oh, and KEN, if you think Jonathan Schuerholz will be the Braves’ second baseman next season, then I hope you’re not driving among us in Atlanta. Because you’re seeing things that aren’t there.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

And Lew, I forgot to mention Todd Jones, who got more than twice as much from Tigers as Braves were willing to offer him.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

35, coincidentally, a couple days ago I ordered a George Jones T-shirt, a vintage-looking thing that has a drawing of him from a concert poster for a gig he did at the legendary Antone’s in Austin. Good stuff.

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

Woops , Lew is right ! Renteria is under contract through 2008 with a club option for 2009. DOB I hate to disagree but since 1999 Dye has hit 27-33-26-26-24-23-31 homeruns over the last eight seasons and 38 homeruns so far in 2006 , so yea he is a fairly decent outfielder.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

I am looking through Ambrose Bierce’s “The Devil’s Dictionary”. Good stuff. But nothing on Wurlitzer’s, toes, pie or Dudes that abide.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 29, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this

Saw the Possum here about 4 or 5 years ago. It was an experience for the ages. Some of my favorites include: I don’t care if tomorrow never comes (with Hank Jr.) The King is Gone and So Are You Here’s a tear jerker for ya’ DOB—Wild Irish Rose.

By Shaun Payne

August 29, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

Dye

The Braves trading Dye was very similar to them trading Betemit. Dye was a good player, but he wasn’t likely to become a star (and really hasn’t). And the Braves already had outfielders.

By geauxbraves2000

August 29, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

Okay, math time, the Braves have 33 games remaining. To finish the season at 500 they have to go 20-13. A tough task for this team, but not impossible. Will they? Well who knows. Anyhow, the Reds are 2 games over .500 right now, if the top wildcard teams finishes 2 over, the Braves have to go 22-11. If it takes 5 over to win, then it’s 23-10.

This team is very capable of going 23-10. If they could see consistency even in just a small winning streak to begin with, they could get confidence and a confident team is a winning team.

Maybe I’m dreaming, maybe I’m not, but I just refuse to give up no matter how hopeless it seems.

Geaux Braves!!

By Lew

August 29, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

DOB-Yeah, I remember. However, in hindsight, when are the Braves going to realize that the salary structure is what it is (pretty Zen, huh) and that they are apparently, not the ones who set it. One of these days we are either going to have to bite the bullet or sink further into the depths. Has it ended up being worthwhile to hang on to that extra $$$ rather than bringing in someone at the beginning? I’m certainly not a JS basher-the man’s track record is better than anyone’s, no doubt about it. I’m not sure anyone could possibly have done any better. But I think he misplayed his hand this time around.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

August 29, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Missed some punctuation there. Sorry, I’m from South Arkansas. What do you expect….

By Kentavo

August 29, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

How many folks you think will sport Braves jerseys to tonight’s game with “Homeboy” emblazoned on the back? I would, but I’m six hours away.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

DOB-Actually, when I mentioned a middle ground, I would have included Farnsworth, Gordon, et al in the upper echelons. What I wonder, was there not someone lesser than that, but more than Remlinger we could have picked up. An upgrade to middle relief, so to speak. My major problem with JS this year is more of a matter of view. I would not have signed Sosa to an extension and counted on him. He was Houdini last year, no doubt about it, but I looked at him as a car wreck waiting to happen. It was only a matter of time before those runners started to score.

By gpburdell

August 29, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

nice article on si.com by tom verducci about chipper and his thoughts of chipper being a HOFer.

By swamprat

August 29, 2006 12:59 PM | Link to this

I like both JSs, but JS, the pitcher, has been with the Braves for 19 years and he is well aware of the team’s and the other JS’s policies. Why it so important to get the contract signed now, when he knows it is going to happen after the season? Unless, JS, the pitcher, needs the money now to supplement his golf game. It doesn’t seem like it’s a matter of life or death. How is 5 more weeks going to make any difference? I think sometimes JS, the pitcher, puts his mouth in motion before his brain takes over. Personally, I would like to see the Braves trade him right now, when they can get some outstanding players for him. If they resign him after the season, and he messes up his arm or back during the off season playing golf, then, what is he going to be worth? Timing is everything and maybe NOW is the time.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

SwampRat-Again I ask the question-What outstanding players do you think Smoltz, Andruw, or whoever else will bring? Are you banking on a Brett Butler for Len Barker type deal. Reality would dictate that if you got anyone, it would be unproven talent. The problem with that is Smoltz is proven talent under contract to us next year and inclined to stay with us past then. You don’t know how prospects will turn out. That’s why they are prospects. You THINK they will be good. Smoltz can help us in the immediate future. That’s pretty much a certainty.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

Kentavo .I am not sure if J. Schuerholz has a sense of humor. If he does I would like to see him in one of those jerseys. I hope Smoltz was joking when he made his statement. From now on I would like to suggest the use of JS for schuerholz and Little js for Smoltz.

By Shaun Payne

August 29, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

Usually when there is a controversy in sports, there is truth to both sides and overreaction from both sides. Schuerholz is probably waiting until the season’s over to take care of contract issue because that’s the way he does it and he doesn’t want to budge. Smoltz knows his option should be picked up and, the way he sees it, the Braves should just go ahead with it. You can see both sides, but it’s kindof rediculous for Schuerholz to stand firm on the principal of not dealing with contract stuff during the season for his best pitcher and a team icon.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

OK, head coach, you gave me the home-run totals for an AL corner outfielders (27-33-26-26-24-23-31 for the last “EIGHT” seasons you said, apparently using DOB math). For one thing, those are hardly exceptional homer totals for a corner outfielder, especially an outfielder in the AL during the steroid era.

Of course, you always forgot to list his home run totals for the two seasons after he left Atlanta _ 7 homers in 263 at-bats in 1997 and 5 in 214 at-bats in 1998. He hit .236 and .234 with the Royals those two seasons, the TWO SEASONS after HE LEFT ATLANTA.

But nevermind that.

Just tell me what you find exceptional about these annual OPS totals in the seasons before last: .813 OPS in 2001 with two teams, .792 in 2002 with Oakland, .514 in 2003 with Oakland, .793 in 2004 with Oakland.

Lew, that’s nothing more than mediocre for a starting OF in this era.

BETTER YET, LET ME COMPARE THEM TO ANOTHER PLAYER WHO AVERAGE MORE THAN 500 AT-BATS DURING THAT SAME ERA, THEN I’LL TELL YOU WHO THE PLAYER IS:

2001: .829 (compared to Dye’s .813)

2002: .755 (compared to Dye’s .792)

2003: .797 (compared to Dye’s .514)

2004: .772 (compared to Dye’s .793).

Head coach, any guesses on the player (hint, aim for a guy who made less than ONE-THIRD of Dye’s salary in those years…..

The player was JEFF CONINE.

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 01:10 PM | Link to this

Guys , I admire Smoltzy for his competive fire. but really , everybody knows the Braves front office doesn’t negotiate contract’s during the season. He just needs to can the homeboy comment’s and throw the d* ball and let Schuerholz do his job and JS is very good at doing his job. Smoltz didn’t get traded , he will have his option picked up. I mean , to not trade him and then let Smoltz go in free agency for a sandwich pick after the first round would be career suicide for John Schuerholz. So , yea Smoltzy will be back next season.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

Excuse my typos, please. I’m still just getting rolling here, drinking coffee and prepping for the arrival of Bonds (does anybody even care? I really don’t, not much)

By Lew

August 29, 2006 01:14 PM | Link to this

DOB-I’m the one who said it was years before Dye showed potential. I think you meant Head Coach.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

Lew - With all due respect, and not trying to start anything, but hindsight is a powerful tool. Suppose Homeboy allowed Sosa to walk last offseason, and he pitched this season for someone else exactly as he did last season. (After all, as BC said, his starts “saved our bacon” last year.) We’d be having the Jermaine Dye discussion except with Jorge Sosa’s name. In fact, we’d probably even throw out the loyalty word…

With pitchers, except for the elite few, every season is a crap-shoot. Look at Farnsy in NY. He got 3 yrs./$17M. He’s 3-4 with a 4.25 ERA in 62 games… not exactly stellar. Even the esteemed Dontrelle Willis, although perception says he’s light’s out, has had a relatively mediocre season (9-10, 4.01 ERA.) This season, Homeboy rolled with Jorge and simply crapped out.

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 01:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, I said decent outfielder . Not great , not bad , just decent. His numbers are a bit hinky due to the fact that he has averaged only 133 games a season due to a broken leg and other assorted injuries. His career .272 batting average stinks and if you break down his 1460 games played by 162 you come up with nine seasons averaging 25 HR’s 88 RBI or you can go with the full eleven seasons average of 20 HR’s 72 RBI. Either set of numbers suggest a very average pedestrian outfielder.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

VOR-Yeah, maybe so, but like I said, if I could see that he was a train derailment looking for a bad track, then JS should have seen it, too. Anyone who gave up as many baserunners as Sosa did last season… Well, the writing was on the wall. But on the other hand, I thought the Braves should use Langerhans as a leadoff hitter, so what do I know. It’s all in hindsight and idle speculation. JS is the man. I’m just a humble artist who needs to go listen to something scorching. Dirty Looks “Cool To The Wire” sounds pretty good right about now.

By al hott

August 29, 2006 01:24 PM | Link to this

great for smoltz; great for atlanta baseball; put some spice into it….try to do it quietly tho so ya don’t wake Bobby! (just kidding…..love Mr. Cox and think he is great…calm and peaceful UNTIL you pick on his players….then oops another heaveho for BobO…. Hope Smoltz stays and Braves come back together next year…. also prefer Sunday Morning Coming Down to any Monday morning crap

By KC

August 29, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

The Braves will win tonight 4-3. Thus sayeth KC.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Or Black Sunday by Jethro Tull.

By Phat Bat Boy

August 29, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

I completely agree with Lew. The market sets the price, not Scherholtz. Much like a player can be great but have a bad season, so can a GM. And this has been a very bad season for Scherholtz. He can’t sign any major free agent. He traded for Renteria (yes, a very good season but why use a blue-chipper like Marte when you have 17 middle infielders in the minors, plus Betemit and other gaping holes to fill?). The bullpen was bad last year and worse this year. He botched the Andruw through waivers thing by being too arrogant to pick up the phone. He’s botching the Smoltz option thing by being too arrogant to pick up the phone. He devalued Giles by not acquiring a lead-off batter (did anyone ever think that maybe Giles had a good OBP because he was protected in the line-up by Chipper?) He kept Sosa a year too long when his trade value was likely much higher than it was at mid-season. If Villareal continues to be this year’s Sosa, I hope Scherholtz has learned his lesson. We got robbed in the Estrada trade (sure, he needed to be traded but we got very little back for a still productive player at a premium position). He allows his best pinch hitter to go to a division rival because he insists on 1 year deals. He allows his pitching coach to leave because he insists on 1 year deals. (I am predicting that Wickman will go elsewhere because Scherholtz insists on 1 year deals). All in all, a very bad season. All of this right after his book hits the bookstores. It couldn’t happen to a nicer more elitist guy.

By Shaun Payne

August 29, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

Bonds is pretty much a circus act, though he’s having a pretty solid year (mostly because of his amazing on-base percentage). He’s not getting much attention this season because of the low homer total, but he’s helped the Giants offensively as much as anyone. He actually has the 6th-most plate appearances. How’s this for a bold idea: bat Bonds leadoff?

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

Agreed, Lew, I thought Langy was the real deal as well… Who knows? Certainly not me. I’ve been hopping from artist to artist all morning and can’t quite seem to hit on the right vibe for the day. I’ve even listened to a few minutes of Night Ranger for goodness sake. I gotta find something quick…

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

If we are going to the other days of the week I would put Waits’ “Looking for the heart of Saturday Night” above any day,place or time.

By KC

August 29, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

I am dismayed at the degree of tolerance nearly everyone in baseball has shown for Barry Bonds. Anyone who has cheated by using steroids should be banned from the game… period. If you’re going to have a zero-tolerance policy in regard to betting on baseball, we should also have a 0-tolerance policy about cheating (and committing a crime in the process).

Barry Bond’s name should be considered an embarrassing black mark on the game, all of his record should be struck from books, and there’s no way he should still be playing Major League Baseball. Even the often opinionated and free-lipped Skip Caray has been verbally supportive of Bonds. Skip really disappointed me on that one.

By KC

August 29, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

Same goes for Giambi and all other criminal cheaters.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

phat dude - Just for the record, Estrada was coming off of a severe injury and a disappointing season. He was a question mark that few teams wanted to take a flyer on. Homeboy pretty much got what he could. As for Julio, he’s batting a whopping .271 with a whole 1 HR and 16, count ‘em, 16 RBI. NYM can have him… Oh, yeah. Leo is really working wonders over in Baltimore. He’s got that pitching staff up to 29th out of 30 major league teams in ERA at 5.73. WOW! Couldn’t we use a little of that magic around here?

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

Here is another angle on the Jermaine Dye argument. Dye in 2006 118 games 38 HR’s 102 RBI 47 walks 95 SO’s .391 OBP .649 SLG and a 326 batting average. Francoeur in 2006 129 games 24 HR’s 89 RBI 14 walks 104 SO’s .283 OBP .449 SLG and a .257 batting average. Who would you rather have in right field ?

By Ptown Bravo

August 29, 2006 01:47 PM | Link to this

Snowball - Todd Snider is a Beaverton High School grad (Beaverton, Oregon), a former classmate of my former wife and, incidentally, the only good thing she ever turned me on to. He gave her a copy of Songs For The Daily Planet when it came out back in ‘94. It was one of the few things I got away with.

Still, I think he pales in comparison to two of Portland’s (current) finest: Kelly Joe Phelps and Tony Furtado.

…another day, another must-win situation.

By Voice of Reason

August 29, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

Finally settled on some good ol’ Zep… whew…

By KC

August 29, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

Baseball cannot allow Bonds to break Aaron’s record!!!!!!!!!!!!

He should not be allowed to have cheated his way to the Holy Grail of sports records. For Bond’s name mentioned in the same breath as people like Hank Aaron, Roger Maris, and others… is an absolute joke. Same with Mark McGuire, and a Sammy Sosa. These people should be to sports what Michael Jackson now is to popular music. As a baseball fan, I am embarrassed that pigs like this these people have been allowed to irreparably harm our sport.

I am not going to any of the games this week because I am personally boycotting any game that Barry Bonds participates in. If every fan did the same, baseball would be forced to deal with the issue rather than sweeping it under the rug. End rant.

By Lew

August 29, 2006 01:55 PM | Link to this

Black Sunday-Jethro Tull Tomorrow is the one day I would trade for a Monday with freezing rains melting and no trains running and sad eyes passing in windows flimsy and my seat rocking from legs not quite matching Got passport, credit cards- a plane that I’m catching Black Sunday came one day too soon The taxi that takes me will be moving too quickly My suitcase is simply too full for the closing of pants shirts and kisses all packed in a hurry Two best selling paperbacks chosen at random…no sign of sales persons to whom I might hand them Black Sunday fell one day too soon And down at the airport are probably waiting a few thousand passengers-overbooked seating Time long suspended in transit lounge traumas—connections broken and Special Branch waiting conspicuosly standing in holiday clothing Black Sunday falls one day too soon Pick up my feet and kick off my lethargy Down to the gate with the old mood upon me Get out and chase the small immortality born in the minute of my next returning Impatient feet tapping and cigarrette burning Homecoming one day too soon And back at the house there’s a grey sky a tumbling Milk bottles piling on door steps a crumblimg Curtains all drawn and cold water plumbing Notepaper scribblings I read unbelieving Saying how sorry, how sad was the leaving One day too soon.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 01:55 PM | Link to this

Lew, yes, yes. Of course I meant Head Coach. Sorry.

Head coach, decent is right. Nothing exceptional until last postseason and this year. And this is a long, long time from when he played for Atlanta.

Moving on….

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

Ptown Bravo, I agree on Furtado and Phelps. Listening to Snider I wondered where that twang came from. I read that he was born in Ptown and moved to Houston, ran away at fifteen and came back to Portland. Tony Furtado Played at the Buffalo Gap last winter and spring on Thursday nights.It takes a lot to get me out these days but I made three of the dates. He was taking time out from touring and keeping his chops up. Hope we are that lucky this winter.

By DC Braves Fan

August 29, 2006 01:58 PM | Link to this

Francoeur is in his first full season as a pro, unfair to compare to a 10 year vet.

Speaking of OF’s anyone heard these Juan Pierre rumors? We could still use a good leadoff.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

Ptown Bravo, love Kelly Joe Phelps. Great stuff.

Lew, I might be in the minority among the crowd here, but I gotta admit, wasn’t a bit Tull fan at all. Sorry, but he’s just too geeky looking, playing a damn flute and dancing about on one leg.

Gimme Zep, gimme Dylan, Gimme Beatles, Gimme Skynyrd, Gimme Who, and tons more where they came from. But keep Tull in mothballs.

By Michael Jackson

August 29, 2006 02:01 PM | Link to this

What are you talking about? I’m still popular.

By KC

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

MC HAMMER: Adam’s Groove

they do what they wanna do, say what they wanna say Live how they wanna live, play how they wanna play Dance how they wanna dance, kick and the slap a friend The addams family

Now I was cold coolin’, you know (maxin’ and relaxin’) Just kickin’ it around the house (oaktown kicking’ it) When a knock, a knock, a knock and a voice yo! Can hammer come out? (what’s up?) Now I don’t mind (mind) being a friend And showin’ a little bit of flava (flava) But wednesday, pugsley, gomez, fester (oh man) Man, them some strange neighbours

*

I remember the day I needed to borrow A little of pepper (for my chicken) The next thing you know, comin’ at me Was a hand with the fingers high steppin’ (I’m witcha) Now I tried to play it along (you know) And act like I was havin’ a ball (ha ha) But what do I see (yo) a perm with feet (cousin it) Standin’ about three feet tall (I’m outta here)

*

Speakin’ and thinkin’ about the addams You know the hammer is with it (I’m with it) Act a fool, no bones, swooop, goofy and randy You know we kick it (the posse) Now is the time to get in your mind It’s ok to be yourself (be yourself) Take foolish pride and put it aside Like the addams, yo! they def (that’s a family!)

*

(addams) too legit (addams) too legit (addams) too legit (who’s too legit?) (the addams family) (you know what I’m saying, the addams) (addams) too legit (oh yeah) (addams) too legit (talkin’ ‘bout the addams now) (addams) too legit (I’m saying it’s the addams now) (the addams family) (yo! take to the bridge) (thank you fester)

Oh yeah, yeah Oh, this is the addams groove right here, ha ha

(addams) yeah yeah (addams) just like that (addams) oh yeah (the addams family) you know you gotta fully understand

They dok what they wanna do, say what they wanna say Live how they wanna live, play how they wanna play Dance how they wanna dance, kick and they slap a friend (the addams family)

(addams) too legit (addams) too legit (addams) too legit I’m tellin’ you I saw the hand (the addams family) thing, man, I saw

They do what they wanna do, say what they wanna say Live how they wanna live, play how they wanna play Dance how they wanna dance, kick and they slap a friend (the addams family) it’s the addams

Yeah, thank you fester, I needed to go back to the bridge again Thank you, thank you, now check this out

Sorry… we are talking music arent’t we? ;o)

By gpburdell

August 29, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

i’d rather have Francoeur. he has much more of an up side.

By Head Coach

August 29, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

Agreed David , nobody would wait ten years for an outfielder to develop. And I would go with Francoeur because of his superior defense and the simple fact that the Braves can pay Francoeur the major league minimum while Dye makes 5 million and Francoeur plays everyday.

By KC

August 29, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

Today’s deep tought:

“Now is the time to get it in your mind, it’s okay to be yourself. Take foolish pride and put it aside like the Adam’s YO THEY DEF!

-MC Hammer

By Ptown Bravo

August 29, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

Snowball, thanks for the head’s up on Furtado at the Buffalo Gap - I’ll look for him this winter. I’ve seeen Phelps locally many, many times, but never Furtado. Recently I’ve been wearing out Phelps’ latest, Tunesmith Retrofit - I personally think this is his best work yet.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this

(Looking For) The Heart of Saturday Night

Well you gassed her up

Behind the wheel

With your arm around your sweet one

In your Oldsmobile

Barrelin’ down the boulevard

You’re looking for the heart of Saturday night

And you got paid on Friday

And your pockets are jinglin’ And you see the lights

You get all tinglin’ cause you’re cruisin’ with a 6

And you’re looking for the heart of Saturday night

Then you comb your hair Shave your face

Tryin’ to wipe out ev’ry trace

All the other days

In the week you know that this’ll be the Saturday

You’re reachin’ your peak

Stoppin’ on the red

You’re goin’ on the green

‘Cause tonight’ll be like nothin’ You’ve ever seen And you’re barrelin’ down the boulevard

Lookin’ for the heart of Saturday night

Tell me is the crack of the poolballs, neon buzzin?

Telephone’s ringin’; it’s your second cousin

Is it the barmaid that’s smilin’ from the corner of her eye?

Magic of the melancholy tear in your eye.

Makes it kind of quiver down in the core

‘Cause you’re dreamin’ of them Saturdays that came before

And now you’re stumblin’

You’re stumblin’ onto the heart of Saturday night

Well you gassed her up

And you’re behind the wheel

With your arm around your sweet one

In your Oldsmobile

Barrellin’ down the boulevard,

You’re lookin’ for the heart of Saturday night

Is the crack of the poolballs, neon buzzin?

Telephone’s ringin’; it’s your second cousin

And the barmaid is smilin’ from the corner of her eye

Magic of the melancholy tear in your eye.

Makes it kind of special down in the core

And you’re dreamin’ of them Saturdays that came before

It’s found you stumblin’

Stumblin’ onto the heart of Saturday night

And you’re stumblin’

Stumblin onto the heart of Saturday night

By KC

August 29, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

I am still seriously hoping that JS can swing a waiver wire deal for another reliever. It would actually be something of a surprise if he doesn’t make a waiver wire deal, since he does it nearly every year.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

Ptown Bravo, I used to eat Sunday breakfast at a little hippie cafe on Hawthorne. Phelp’s would play in a corner. Must have been more than 15 years ago. I don’t think we can claim Kelly as a homeboyas he is from Vancouver. I think Tony is from Colorado or points east. We can claim Sam Elliot the Narrator of “The Great Lebowski”.I don’t know how he came by the cowboy twang but he does abide.

By Spider29

August 29, 2006 02:28 PM | Link to this

Jeez, I like Jermaine Dye but let it go, he isn’t coming back. And don’t dog Jeff F. That guy is going to get better and be a great player. Of course, that’s just my opinion. Bet most of us here are in agreement about Bonds. I sure agree that he is an embarrassment to the game as are Sosa, McGuire, Giambi, Palmeiro and any others of that ilk. The wild card race…the Braves are definitely still in it. What scares me to death is the starting pitching. The offense and defense are going to pull their weight but who is going to step up and join Smoltz on the mound? These next nine games are truly huge. I watched part of the Phils/Mets and most of the Reds/LA game. Both outcomes were helpful to the Braves. Gotta worry about the baby Marlins though. I’ll be listening to the game tonight and pulling for Hudson to continue his good August work. Go Braves!

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

You know your team sucks when…..Your bloggers spend more time reciting rock and roll songs than your teams record/issues. Sorry sorry brave fans.

By Beachcomber

August 29, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

Snowball - Anybody who can claim Sam Elliott can also claim his wife - Catherine Ross. I am, therefore, insanely jealous of you.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

Snowball’s coming with some essential Waits, PTown with Kelly Joe Phelps, and Snowball offers … Hammer? That’s not even so-bad-it’s-good. It’s just bad. And not even old enough to be nostalgia-bad. Just bad.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

YIKES, MEANT KC is coming with awful Hammer. Not SNOWBALL. MY APOLOGIES SNOWBALL. I HIT SEND BEFORE READING

By Shaun Payne

August 29, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

Steroids and Gambling In a perfect world everyone who either gambled or used steroids would be banned for life. But there are many steroids or steroids-like substances that cannot be detected even with blood tests, HGH is one. And, through collective bargaining (i.e., owners and players agreeing) there are legal issues with going after alleged steroid users. Gambling is a little easier because there is usually a paper trail. There is also more incentive to go after gamblers inside the game because it affects the outside world. Steroids have affected the game, but it’s not because of insider information or because someone is trying to lose a game. And evidence seems to suggest there were a lot of players on steroids, including pitchers which “evens the playing field.”

I’m not saying what’s right or wrong, but this is the reality.

By Braves 20

August 29, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

h8 da braves - here’s one last song lyric for you, courtesy of Ray Charles - Hit The Road Jack.

By Ptown Bravo

August 29, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this

I was on the third base line at “Your Name Here” Park in SF back in April when Chipper went down ugly on the infield in conditions that could only be termed “unplayable.” Two things I’ll never forget from that trip: 1) after driving in 5 in a wild Friday night win in even wilder weather, Langy was putting on a BP show Sat & Sun and looked so comfortable at the plate (WTF happened to that confidence?); 2) minus the 10,000 or so Braves’ fans, there were still around 30,000 borderline rabid Bonds’ fans clamoring for his adoration (I naively thought he would get a lower-key or even mixed reception in the Giants’ home opener.)

Postscript: I found redemption 3 months later at Petco Park in SD, when I was able to see a revitalized Chipper culminating one of the greatest extended hitting expositions of all time. Better fans, better park, better city, better weather, and, for Braves’ fans, better baseball.

By geauxbraves2000

August 29, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

I agree js’s option should be picked up, more than likely will, but looking in on JS’s side, if he bends the rules for one then he’s going to have to bend the rules for other. If he’s a non-negotiating until after the season GM, then that’s what it is. I think js is just showing frustration over the season they are having. If they were way ahead in the division this would probably be a non issue.

Once again, just my two cents.

“Oh the greatest comeback in baseball history, the Braves were down _ games and have won it all!!”

Geaux Braves!!

By Shaun Payne

August 29, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

Want to do something about steroids? Stop watching games and stop going to games. The owners and players would be forced to do something, then. Same goes with all the other “problems” in baseball.

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

How about a line from from the braves. Uh, I mean “Raging Bull”….”I could have been a contender”

By Just For the Sake of Argument

August 29, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

His career .272 batting average stinks…

Yet The Greatest Centerfielder of All Time’s career batting average is .267.

By KC

August 29, 2006 02:50 PM | Link to this

DOB: Back off Mc Hammer… He’s da man!

By Just For the Sake of Argument

August 29, 2006 02:53 PM | Link to this

h8er, you’re thinking of “On the Waterfront.”

Braves fans don’t mind educating you.

By TennesseePaul

August 29, 2006 02:59 PM | Link to this

I take a break and come back to see MC Frickin Hammer all over this blog. shudder.

By Shaun Payne

August 29, 2006 03:00 PM | Link to this

I’m not a big fan of the mainstream media or the people who run the game from an economic standpoint, but we the fans have to take some of the blame. If we stopped watching when the players did something immoral, the owners and players would be forced to do something about it.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 03:03 PM | Link to this

It’s okay DOB, I’m just glad noone called me on typing the Great instead of Big Lebowski.

Beachcomber, Catherine and I are keeping it quiet.

Bonds had to rear his huge head in this blog. I read “Game of Shadows” and came away not trusting any athlete especially if they played in the Bay Area. This would include Jermaine Dye teammate of Giambi.

By Shelia Smith

August 29, 2006 03:07 PM | Link to this

My comment is short and sweet.Pick up Smoltz contract or you will have a lot of unhappy Braves fans on your hands. John Smoltz means the world to us, and we want him here as long as he wants to be here.

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

*You know your team sucks when…..Your bloggers spend more time reciting rock and roll songs than your teams record/issues. Sorry sorry brave fans. *

Its even more pitiful when you have to go to the blog of the team that beat your @$$ for years for satisfaction!

Good call B20!

By Lew

August 29, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

DOB-Sorry Dude. Tull is among the all time greats. You may have half a position on Night Ranger, but you are absolutely wrong on this one. A stage show is just a stage show. The music was and is great. Just no question whatsoever. I have every cd they put out since 1968, have seen them live five times and even met the man. I feel about them much the same way you feel about certain black dressed individuals. I won’t debate on who is better, because it is a zero sum game, but we will definitely have to agrre to disagree on this one Abiding Dude. You should, perhaps, revisit them.

By The Homeboy formerly Known as Billy

August 29, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

KC that was an interesting slant on Soriano and Andruw. However I dont think we could afford soriano even if we traded AJ. Soriano’s gonna want between 15-18 Million a year. I dont think he is worth that much of a % of our payroll. Further, offence is not what we need.

By KC

August 29, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

Sheila, don’t worry… There’s not even a snowball’s chance in Phoenix that the Braves don’t pick up his option. For a veteran, he will be the biggest bargain in baseball. The Braves have no intention of passing on Smoltz’s option… they’re just waiting intil the off-season as they always do.

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this

Don’t ya hate it when the formatting f’s up?

By Ptown Bravo

August 29, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

In my book it is the Great Big Lebowski. And, for me, it was Mr. Elliott’s role as The Stranger almost as much as Jeff Bridges’ role as The Dude that made that movie truly great. So many lines relate uncannily to this blog, right down to the Nihilists (Mets’ fans).

Walter: “You want a toe? I can get you a toe, believe me. There are ways, Dude. You don’t wanna know about it, believe me.”

The Dude: “Yeah, but Walter…”

Walter: “Hell, I can get you a toe by 3 o’clock this afternoon… with nail polish.”

…eerie, dude.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

Being born in Ptown and watching our only pro franchise implode after being a model of how to run a small market franchise, it makes me nervous when the team’s best player keeps making negative remarks. That player is shortly in another uniform. Great players don’t just play for money. They want that big post-season stage. I hope this is a short term reaction by Smoltz to this year’s disappointing showing and not a terminal difference with JS.

By Speaking of Great Song Lyrics...

August 29, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

Sun is shinin’ in the sky

There ain’t a cloud in sight.

It’s stopped rainin’

Ev’rybody’s in a play.

And don’t you know

It’s a beautiful new day

Hey

Hey

Runnin’ down the avenue

See how the sun shines

Brightly in the city on the streets

Where once was pity.

Mister Blue Sky

Is living here today

Hey

Hey

Mister Blue Sky

Please tell us why

You had to hide away for so long.

Where did we go wrong?

Mister Blue Sky

Please tell us why

Hey

You with the pretty face

Welcome to the human race.

A celebration

Mister Blue Sky’s up there waitin’

And today is the day we’ve waited for.

Hey

Hey

Mister Blue Sky

Please tell us why

Hey there

Mister Blue

We’re so pleased

To be with you look around

See what you do

Ev’rybody smiles at you.

Hey there, Mister Blue

We’re so pleased

Mister Blue

You did it right

But soon comes Mister Night creepin’ over

Now his hand is on your shoulder

Never mind

I’ll remember you this

I’ll remember you this way.

Mister Blue Sky

Please tell us why

Hey there

Mister Blue

We’re so pleased

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

August 29, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

Lew knows everything, don’t argue with Lew.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 29, 2006 03:21 PM | Link to this

and just what is wrong with playing a floot and dancing on one leg? would you turn away a one-legged loot player as well? leaning on a poll? and grinch listened to allison krauss? angel voice? does she make a good pudding? now, barry bonds will be here tonight and this journalist, like dob, really doesn’t much care. journalist liked to boo barry when he would slap at the ball with his glove as a pirate - and journalist surely likes him no better now. once journlaist saw barry slap at a ball and it rolled into centerfield. that was sweet.

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

The line is the important part. Not the Movie…..I’m sure you get the point since you’re so educated.

By David

August 29, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is another example of how the modern day athlete has little or no respect for their superiors. If Gary Sheffield has called Shuerholtz the “homeboy” upstairs, Gary probably would have been fined a substantial amount of money, suspended probably for at least a season and/or cur from the team. But Smoltz can say just about anything he wants and it will get absolutely no criticism from Bobby Cox, management or the like. Smoltzie is just another example of a spoiled “millionaire” prima dona who thinks he is God’s gift to the world. He plays a childs game of baseball and is living in a fantasy world in that is playing a game that most americans just dream about. Instead of keeping his fat mouth shut, he just tramples all over John Shuerholtz by completely disrespecting him and I think that Smoltz should be kicked off the team for his ridiculous comments, the same way that T.O. got kicked off the Eagles when he couldn’t keep his fat mouth shut. John Smoltz doesn’t own the Braves, the same way T.O. doesn’t own the Eagles. These disrepectful athletes need to be kept in their place and disciplined when it is clear that they have stepped out of line.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 03:29 PM | Link to this

KC, I have a copyright on Snowball’s Chance but as noone is making a profit on this blog especially the bosses of those posting from work My advisors recommend letting it slide.

Lew, never got to see Jethro Tull live. Those I know that did came away impressed. I did use to play locamotive breath in one band.

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

h8-er, we DO know our trivia, and for the most part seem educated. Now some trivia for you…when was the last time the Mutts won their division? Or are you not old enough to remember?

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

Rodger, when you’re done stroking your boyfriends dong maybe you could tell me what teams a* the braves have been kicking latley. You don’t have to rush, since you’re probably the one who cleans up after the climax.

By Snowball's Chance

August 29, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

I wish this blog was a movie with the credits rolling at the end. Who is the multi-personality blogger? Sometimes the posts are thoughtful but mostly full of bile.

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 03:44 PM | Link to this

first of all, What makes you think I’m a braves fan and second, when was the last time the braves went to the world series?

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

h8-obviously not a Braves fan, as your biggest climax comes from not finishing behind the Braves. However, you’re still full of big bat envy, since you have to troll this blog. Why don’t you go suck up somewhere that you’re appreciated-like under your mama’s apron.

By Gomer

August 29, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

I think h8-da-braves won that round, not a very good comeback by Rodger.

By DonCoburleone

August 29, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

First time on the blog in quite a while… Already caught the football fever… Anyway, just scrolling through the posts real quick and one thing caught my eye… DOB, Tejada over A-Rod??? Are you crazy??? A-Rod is twice the talent Tejada is, even after Tejada’s juicing… And A-Rod’s baggage, what baggage is that??? The “baggage” A-Rod has is created entirely by the NY media. You honestly think fans in Atlanta would boo A-Rod the way they do in NY? Or that sports/beat writers would tear into him the way the NY media does? That is his baggage, it’s not like HE created it. I mean, you make it sound like A-Rod is the T.O. of baseball, ridiculous!…

Anyway, I saw that and I had to respond. Also, Smoltz deserves his option to be picked up NOW along with another one for 2008! The guy is amazing, and the sad part is, if he had just 3 or 4 of those 5 blown wins, he’d be the front-runner for the NL Cy Young IMO. He’d be what, 15-6 with a low 3 ERA and top 3 in strikeouts, that is definately CY Young caliber.

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

Your avoiding the question Rodger. Who’s a* are the braves kicking latley?????

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 04:06 PM | Link to this

well h8-er, we’re getting damn close to 500…

as to your other id as gomer-rather appropriate, I think-a better response would probably offend some of the LADIES on this blog, but as a NY jackoff, you would have no respect, consideration, or good ol southern manners to take that into consideration.

By Gomer

August 29, 2006 04:10 PM | Link to this

Hey, I’m just the ref here, focus on the task at hand Rodger, you’re still losing the battle here…now focus.

By Tad

August 29, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

What a joke. How can Smoltz possibly be worried so much about himself and his $8,000,000 that he feels the need to criticize the General Manager of the team publicly.

At his $11,000,000 salary, he is making over $300,000 per start and only works 1 to 2 days per week. That’s about $100,000 per hour. Do your job like the rest of us and and keep your mouth shut unless you have something constructive to say. Contracts are discussed in the offseason, even yours. Has Marcus Giles criticized the GM? He doesn’t have a contract next year either.

Why don’t you talk publicly about where the Braves would be if you were still closing games instead of watching the bullpen blow 25 saves this year? If we had won half of those games, we’d be the NL wild card leader.

By h8-da-braves

August 29, 2006 04:31 PM | Link to this

Oh please stop with the “southerner” thing Rodger, it’s old. It’s 2006, I’ve been to bars in Atlanta and heard woman using language that was worse.

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

hater, that was in a bar. This is a public forum. A higher level of personal behavior is generally expected in public, as well as respect of other persons present.

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 04:44 PM | Link to this

Also keep in mind, Atlanta isn’t southern. 60% of the people here are from the Northeast. And my head hurts.

By geauxbraves2000

August 29, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

Thank you CL, good to see you on here. Lew, Grinch, DOB, JJS, the others, rescue this blog!!

Geaux Braves!!

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

Morning, CL. Sorry for my inappropriate language last night; at least I waited ‘till after 12. I don’t know where I passed out but I must thank Journalist Jimmy for sending those two ladies to my rescue. I awoke neatly tucked into bed (fully clothed, unfortunately), with a well received pitcher of ice-water next to my bed-stand. However, all the mint chocolate chip was gone from my freezer. :-)

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

Hey, Grinch! I’m so sorry you’ve been through this rough patch! I promise it’ll get better. :-)

By Georgetown Kid

August 29, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

H8:

The proof of the Braves dominance of every other team in the NL East, especially the Mets, over the last decade and a half is the fact that the Phillies and the Mets are still obsessed with the Braves.

Mets fans pour over blogs on Atlanta newspapers, and Philadelphia sports radio spends as much time talking about the Braves as the Phillies and the Eagles.

There is no disagreement that the Braves are having a bad season this year. And Braves fans are upset about it. But no one on this blog has ever spent one moment talking about the Mets, until a Mets fan enters. I would also be willing to wager that none of the regulars on this blog spend any time on Mets blogs. It simply wouldn’t occur to them.

I understand that Mets fans actually have something to be proud of this year, which must be a very strange sensation for them. The fact that they deal with temporary success with such arrogance and ignorance reveals the fact that they are quite unaccustomed to it.

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 04:55 PM | Link to this

Good call, Snowball, on Ambrose Beirce. He’s probably the most underrated American writer ever. He’s our Jonathan Swift, much more so than Mark Twain. He has over three million words in print, and yet the only piece of his they anthologize is “An Ocuurence at Owl Creek Bridge.” Sad. Also, good call Jimmy on Allison Krauss. She will be my next girlfriend. If I’m going to be slain, it might as least be by her so I don’t mind as much. BTW, I found my keys after looking for a half hour, but not the pin from the grenade. Why, why did I pull it before I threw? I was trying to save myself from myself, not ze Germans…

By Lew

August 29, 2006 04:57 PM | Link to this

David-Are you seriously comparing Smoltz to T.O.? Man that one barely deserves a second look.

By Rodger

August 29, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

well h8er, when you hang out in those gay bars, you never know who (or what)the “woman” might be. But then again, you probably don’t care.

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

Hey, Geaux! Always good to see you, too! :-))

I’m off to the kitchen (again!) to prepare consumable nutrative commidities. (never-ending chore!) Be back later!

Grinch, you’re forgiven! The ‘Extenuating circumstances’ clause removes you from penalties, including demerits. :-))

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 05:03 PM | Link to this

Thanks, CL; it will get better the further I stay away from women. Yourself excepted, of course. At least I got most of it out of my system. I am not a man of half measures. I suppose I should get more in touch with the baseball side of the blog for a few…let’s trade Smoltz, Andruw and Chipper for Chone Figgins, Miguel Tejada, Juan Pierre and a tray of rice crispy treats. That’s about right on discussion today, isn’t it?

By Carolina Lady

August 29, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

Commidities. hmmmmm. Let’s hope that is something close to commodities! :-))) I’ll claim low blood sugar! Or just plain poor typing skills! :-))

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

The crispy treats could either be used to bat leadoff or entice Wickman to re-sign. That is, if Parantoe didn’t get to them first…

By Lew

August 29, 2006 05:08 PM | Link to this

Grinch-I refuse to listen to any deal that doesn’t give us Albert Pujols and every available pitching prospect, but only if they take John Schuerholz and Aybar, too.

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

We should be able to get Pujols for Aybar straight up. I mean, he could probably play first and they’d be crazy not to dump the salary, right?

By The Grinch

August 29, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Plus, he’s two years younger and may have more upside. I gotta go take a nap. Later, All.

By Tweedy

August 29, 2006 05:23 PM | Link to this

What - the best Monday song of all time not yet mentioned?!

Monday by Wilco

Choo-choo Charlie had a plenty good band But he couldn’t understand why no one would go The World Record Players on a tour of Japan Charlie’s fixing his van with a left arm tan

He said Monday, I’m all high Get me out of FLA In school, yeah I fooled ya Now I know I made a mistake

Blister on a turnpike, let me by I only want to wonder why when I don’t die Oooh, I shot ya, yeah, I know I only want to go where my wheels roll

Monday, I’m all high Get me out of FLA I fooled ya In school, yeah Now I know I made a mistake

Everybody’s wondering, “Where’d he go?” He must be down in Pensacola Hiding from the snow

The world record players on a tour of Japan Charlie’s fixing his van He’s waiting for a postcard

And he said Monday, I’m all high Get me out of TLA

Well I cut class In school, yeah Now I know I made a mistake I made a big mistake

By DonCoburleone

August 29, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

It is really too bad the Braves had to pick this year to implode. This is the weakest the NL has been for some time, and if we had gotten into the playoffs and had to play the Muts, I would’ve liked our chances. But, this certainly is not the Braves year and I don’t necessarily know if there is any one person to blame (of course, if I had to it would be 1) Tim Hudson, for obvious reasons and 2)John Scheurholz/ownership not ponying up for a closer before the season started). However, I think other things contributed (ie injuries) to this horrible season. Season-enders like Boyer, Foster, and Hampton paired with significant stints on the DL from Chipper, HoRam, and Davies hurt this team… However, I do not believe those things alone have made this team go from 90 wins to somewhere around 75-80. I really believe losing Mazzone and Furcal have hurt this team more than anyone in the organization will admit. Hudson and Sosa’s struggles this year, IMO, are directly linked to Mazzone’s absense. And if there is one thing I saw last year (and the year before), as Furcal goes so goes the offense. When he got hot last year, the team took off. This year, there is no spark plug at the top of the order and the offense has suffered from inconsistency because of that. Anyway, I’m just saying that this team will no doubt be improved next year, but improved enough to overcome the inevitable injuries, I’m not sure…

By paluka

August 29, 2006 05:34 PM | Link to this

DOB: Has there been any talk about what Bob Wickman would want to re-sign with the Braves? If he does decide to retire or go else where, do you think JS will re-sign Baez to be the closer? Do you think there is any chance of re-signing both of them? And finally one moe question: If Giles is traded this winter where do you think he will go and for who?

By ncscoots

August 29, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this

there are a lot of assistant GMs out there, bloggers are just the latest. And though I look forward to discussing trade scenarios with you soon, I’m afraid I don’t discuss negotiations during the season. signed, nc-homeboy (the blogger formerly known as ncscoots…and a tip o’ the hat to Billy!).

By ncscoots

August 29, 2006 05:50 PM | Link to this

Don, I don’t think I disagree with you re Furcal. But I will say this about Giles, assuming he’s on the roster next year. I think he DOESN’T have the premature birth of a child to distract him in spring training, he DOESN’T bust his hand in April and screw up his swing for three months, and he DOESN’T try to hit “leadoff” instead of just hit. If he returns to his historical norms with an OBP of .360 or so, jeez, he’ll score 120 runs with the lineup he’ll have behind him. Guess my point is, the guy still has lots of game and I think this year has been the exception and not the norm. I would have no problem at all seeing him hit first next year.

By journalist jimmy smith

August 29, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

what lineup surprise may we expect from bobbycox tonight? journalist feels something coming. will it be “p” players? we will know soon. journalist is wondering if there is time to run to publix to replenish the butter pecan ice cream …

By berigan

August 29, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

DOB, from earlier in the blog…Do you like the early Billie Holiday(Columbia) or the Later(Verve) Holiday???

By Lew

August 29, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

Scoots-You are right. I wouldn’t be at all surprised to find Giles on the team next year, batting leadoff. Even at $5mil he is worth it if he hits like he can. Good point on the birth of his child. My son was born 2 months early and was in neo natal intensive care for 10 days. The kid weighed 4 lbs when we took him home. It can definitely wear on you. Jimmy-You should have plenty of time for the ice cream. Just keep away from beautiful movie stars and Yaks and Musk Oxen on your way to Publix.

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 06:32 PM | Link to this

Tweedy, can’t BELIEVE I forgot “Monday.” Was just listening to Kicking Television last two days, too. Great CD.

OK, new blog up, boys and girls. Let’s move it on over, and please, clean it up a bit, OK? Damn, I leave you guys alone for a couple of hours and you wreck the place.

By DonCoburleone

August 29, 2006 06:34 PM | Link to this

Come on ncscoots, you don’t really believe that do you? You need SPEED at the top of the lineup, not a slow little troll like Giles. I believe Furcal made Giles better over the last 4-5 years because whenever Furcal was on base he was a huge distraction to the opposing pitcher, which in turn gave Giles more good pitches to hit. To completely discredit Furcal’s contribution to the Braves offense over the previous 5 years is just flat out wrong. JUST LOOK AT THE DODGERS THIS YEAR!!!

By David O'Brien

August 29, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this

Berigan, if you haven’t moved over to the new blog yet: I love all of Billie’s stuff, but the Verve remastered CDs are particularly good. And I loved her stuff late in life, when her voice was weathered and worn from the hard life. To me, it only added more to her inimitable work.

By Lois

August 29, 2006 06:43 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t agree more … with both columns. Smoltzie has earned the right to express his opinion. And if all he calls him is “the homeboy upstairs,” well, that’s not so bad. Smoltzie wants to win. And he keeps showing the rest of the team, over and over, how to do it. I don’t know enough about baseball management to say who is right. Certainly Scheurholz has pulled some rabbits out of the hat over the years, so he deserves respect for that. I don’t know what he’s doing now … and unless he writes another book, we may never find out. Sometimes the plan that worked 5 years ago needs to be amended to fit the situation that exists today. So, then I have to say, maybe Smoltz has some important points to make —- and maybe it’s time for Scheurholz to listen.

All I know, is it was hard enough losing Maddox—but I understood the decision. I can never forgive Scheurholz for letting Glavine go … or Glavine for choosing the Mets. But, if Scheurholz lets Smoltz slip away, I’ll have to think about trading in my yahoo moniker.

By Brad in KY

August 29, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this

DOB

This is a little late, but…

Actually, you did suggest that Schuerholz has an ego problem. For you state that Schuerholz needs to forget about his ego and just exercise Smoltz’s option. This clearly implies (although perhaps not explicitly) that what stands in the way here is Schuerholz’s ego.

My response was that, first, that’s a bit of a quick judgment (JS didn’t, for instance, respond to Smoltz’ comments to a reporter, etc). Second, the real issue isn’t JS’ ego at all, but Smoltz’ big mouth. In fact, all Smoltz had to do was have his people get in touch with JS’ people and, more than likely, this all is worked out without a scene. And, in fact, that’s what happened, which I take as evidence that whatever ego JS may have, it’s really not that big nor much of a problem.

But maybe we have different ideas about what an ego is…

By Mystic Man

August 29, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

First, to Brad in KY…why are you glomming onto the ego comment by DOB and making excuses for the John Schuerholtz derived (by you) position? Are you into the Hatfield McCoy version of everything? Just have your people get in touch with my people if you want to respond…what a croc’a bullshirt. Do you know anything about baseball, JS, Braves, Smoltz or are you just a horseshoe kinda guy? It’s like…really…ego and all…well…just…like…explicity stuff.

JS has a problem, and it’s not just Houston. While you are at it, did DOB missspell any words Mr. Bourbon?

By Mystic Man

August 29, 2006 11:39 PM | Link to this

Vervacious Music Man

DOB…the Verve still resonate. The righteous Bittersweet Symphony still gives all the chillbumps that make anyone with any emotion at all feel the human condition put to music as well as anyone has. Have you ever noticed that Sonny Bono had the same octive, pitch and nasal quality as Verve lead? And the backup vocals ironically resemble Cher?

Billy H was, even when strung out completely, able to care and feel enough about the message and the emotion, put an incredible heart felt, instumental quality to the vocals. Lyrics were never the same aftewards. They really meant something real (beyond the doowapp ditty beach music contrived enthusiasm crapola).

By Brad in KY

August 30, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Mystic Man

I guess I’m baffled by your post, mainly because it doesn’t make sense. Why doesn’t it make sense? Because it’s typical of the irrational drivel that passes for commentary on many of these blog posts. If you disagree with someone’s post, perhaps you could actually give reasons (good ones, preferably) why you disagree.

Of course, the problem here is that you probably don’t have any reasons, just a tissue of confused opinions that contradict my own. And what’s the proper response in these cases? Why, expressing your disagreement, not by counter claims or arguments, but to bypass any semblance of rational discourse and to call people names.

In other words, you’re John Smoltz, Homeboy.