Braves

By 10-7-4

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

Greetings again-please keep your seats. Did some catching up on past blog entries[quite a few] and saw that things have been rough here in blogland.We all know what Rodney King said, but let me quote someone else—“I think it’s very important to be able to see the funny side of life, and it’s joyful dimension and not to take everything too tragically”—Pope Benedict Is Grinch or C. Lady in the house???

By atlprofessional

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

This 15 year old girl came running in and said, “Mother! Can a girl get pregnant from having anal sex?”

“Why yes”, said her mother. “Where do you think lawyers come from?”

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

I’m not really asking the Pope if Grinch or C. Lady are in church—-just had some trouble with my formatting

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this

wow, a new blog and nothing from sda/stinky/et al.

dob, this journalist forgot how slowly avery started. he sure did improve. journalist remembers seeing poison avery pitch. that was quite a treat. he had wicked stuff.

and in response the the stinky blogger who refers to a sja: you no longer exist as sja. you are now sda. note dob’s 3:22 post.

now, strings in baseball - wind enough of them tightly and you have a sphere. cover it with hide, stitch it, and you have a baseball. see, strings can be used for many purposes other than nose fiddles.

now, blogging with the multi-personalities of a single fearsome, stalking, tough talking, string bean … this journalist thinks you’re overestimating yourself. p.s. tough guys don’t whine string man.

now, new name for the georgia dome. diddy dome. atl. hip hop capital of the world. diddy dome says it all. get ‘em up, get ‘em up, get ‘em up.

By Lew

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

35-Did you and Clint enjoy yourselves? You really didn’t miss much here. Just a bunch of idiots. The “Idiocracy” as coined by Head Coach who went away mad. CL hasn’t been posting much. Mom is doing better, I believe, but the personal attacks by some of the aforementioned jerks has her posting less. Welcome back, Dude. Lord knows what Grinch is up to. He was here earlier.

By 10-7-4

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

atlprofessional—a post like that-in between two post that mention the Pope. Hope your health insurance is paid up!!

By TennesseePaul

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

Thanks for the new blog DOB.
Disgusting. Absolutely disgusting. That’s all I can say about it. It isn’t entirely one man’s fault. Everyone of them helped out on those stats. But when you look at what is and what was you realize what never should be. Chuck James is amazing. He’s a full run below the Starting ERA. Not bad for a rookie. He’s really showing them up. All but Smoltz. Smoltz, despite his recent bad stretch is always a solid foundation. Next year with a better pitching staff that can account for at least 650 to 700 innings, we’ll be in a good position.

GO BRAVES

By 10-7-4

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

Greetings Sir Lew—good to hear a friendly voice-well I can’t really hear you, so I’ll say good to read a friendly voice. Boy does that read strange! Sorry to hear about C. Lady—she seems to be a kind person and Lord knows we need more of them. Well Drunky Clint says to tell you hello. I got some good news for ole Grinch!! Hope he shows soon. C U L

By dfree

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

DOB, what have u heard from the brave’s brass about aybar. they seemed to be very high on him when they traded for him, i remember hearing “a speedier younger betemit etc”, i havent really seen that in him. Granted he’s been hurt, but do you think they were wrong? what are you hearing about him?

By TennesseePaul

September 14, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this

KC: That comparison of LaRoche… can you do that for Howard as well… Bet it’s incredible. Aside from all the Ks and the batting average, I bet his power numbers are up there or better than Pujols. I’m sure his HR total is.

By SDA

September 14, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

I see no stinking Cliff Notes!

By king awtha

September 14, 2006 04:47 PM | Link to this

i do remember well the braves pitchers ruling the regular season but getting repeatedly ruled during the postseason.

By Dark Helmet

September 14, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I saw the Lips up here in Boston on Sunday. It was at an outdoor ampitheatre, so they released hundreds of huge balloons into the crowd, which made the audience look like a giant popcorn popper the whole show.

There were dancing aliens, confetti, Teletubbies. The feel good show of the year.

Then they finished with “War Pigs.”

Back to baseball- what do you think accounts for guys like Villereal and Cormier pitching better as starters? Isn’t there more pressure in that role? Or do some guys just need more time to get into a groove?

It’s so frustrating seeing those guys pitch well now.

By Kentavo

September 14, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

I had a dream that the Braves pursued free agent starting pitchers in the offseason (Zito? Schmidt?) but alas, it was only a drea.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

35, welcome back and take cover. lew was kind when he referenced a bunch of idiots. journalist believes there are a few authentic new bloggers - welcome! but mostly, it is the fearsome, tough talking, self-proclaimed genius who is posting using multiple identities. he has a conversation with himself each day. expect a post from the pope soon. now, carolina lady is just that - a lady. she will take no part in a blog so ugly. so, sda bring it on while the ladies are away (flabravesgirl, too). and don’t trip on your shoestrings. now, stinky says he’s not sda. well, who are you stinky? no originality in that name. not one of the -bo boys are you? now, baseball … would anyone else like to see david justice here as a coach? don’t know much about him except that sweet, sweet, swing and he likes to win. in fact, journalist believes he powered the first and only ws win for this team. now, another georgia dome name … since the georgia dome is on georgia dome drive - if the name of the dome is changed the name of the street must be changed, too. so consider this suggestion from journalist jimmy smith: we change the street to “the beach” street. we change the dome name to “dome on the beach” - this way we will attract more events, more tourists, and convention dollars. and we won’t have to name the dome for a bathroom cleanser.

By doc

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

pretty revealing numbers dob as far as the pitching staff goes but in todays era when you look at wins and losses for starters you have to look more to the bullpen and its effectiveness in hold situations. if there had been more of that early in the season then the starters would look better and smolt might not be hobbling in again this season. we would also be looking to punch out the mets in the off season instead of tucking our er toes as the mets fans have there brief moment in the sun.

havent commented on the hudson debate. when he came i thought we were getting the next maddox. i think we have ended up with a mesina type guy instead, not bad but not a replacement for the wizzard.

dave you beat me to it as i was going to ask you how it was to be nice and dry watching the lips instead of wet at the ted. guess you arent going to be the one to tell how it was, i thought you probably had bribed one of the photog guys to get yourself in the photo shoot or made up as one of the aliens. you must be losing your touch as you age.

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this

37!, welcome back!! We sure missed ya! The blog has not been a nice place to be lately and I’ve been occupied starting on all my ‘catch up’ work. I’m so far behind, I think I’ll just start over fresh! :-)) Like the second million $$ I’m working on …. gave up on the first ….. Anyhow, it’s really good to have you back again!

JJS, hope you’re enjoying the vacation and eating at all the great seafood places!

DOB, that 3:22 post (previous blog) was beautiful! :-)))) I needed a good laugh! Thanks!

By Charlie

September 14, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this

Excellent article. As bad as the bullpen has been, the starters are almost as ineffective.. Injuries…ugh, nothing you can do about that. To me, Tim Hudson is the biggest disappointment. I really thought Hudson wouild be an ace. His first year in th NL was acceptable, but not a #1 or #2 starter. This season has been worse. Hudson is, at present a good #3/#4 starter. I don’t see him returning to his AL form, next season or ever. He’s definitely NOT worth the money he is paid. If the Braves could dump Hudson and his contract, for a promising young pitcher, that would be the way to go (although Hudson’s value, at present isn’t great.) Thompson…is his contract up after 2006? (I hope so.) Ramirez is so inconsistent. Even when he’s healthy, he’s a 50/50 proposition. Davies, except for his first 4 starts of 2005, has been lousy. I guess they’ll give him one more chance, but he surely isn’t the phenom (with the “exceptional mental makeup”) that was hyped in 2005. Hampton is a huge question mark, with his kazillion dollar contract due in 2007. I don’t know how you can fix all the holes in the 2006 Braves, but you have to start with the starting pitching first.

By T-Bone

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

Hey DOB … Who are some free agent SPs you could see the Braves possibly investing in this winter to fill that 35 start/200 inning requirement?

By 10-7-4

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

C. Lady & sir journalist jimmy thanks for the welcome home. If we all hang together we will at least outnumber this person, who causes havoc. Of course after reading some recent days blogs, I see we may not out number him. PS. C. Lady—where does 37 come in ???

By SR

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

With apologies to Ernest Thayer and anyone who may have already posted a version of this. I am too saddened and disgusted to review all the prior posts to check.

The outlook wasn’t brilliant for the Bravos nine that day, The score stood Five to nothing several innings more to play.

And then when all stopped hitting and the bullpen sieve leaked through,
A pall-like silence fell upon all of us who knew.

A straggling few got up to go in deep despair. They thought, “if only this team had been constructed with a great deal more care.

We’d put up even money now, with Braves teams of the past.” But lo this team is different having gone from first to last.

So upon that stricken multitude, grim melancholy sat; for there seemed but little chance of this bunch coming back from that.

But up came Messrs Utley and Howard and to the wonderment of all, McBride enticed the both of them to swing and miss the ball.

And when the dust had lifted, and men saw only one run had come in, there came big Chad Paronto, sprinting from the pen.

Then from twenty two thousand throats and more there rose a lusty yell; it rumbled through the valley, it rattled in the dell;

it pounded through on the mountain and recoiled upon the flat; for still the Phillies had an out with more hitters up to bat.

And so up came Jeff Conine who singled into left, moving Victorino down to second just awaiting what comes next. And so Paronto lets one fly both runners do advance and then the crowd is moaning for they no longer like our chances.

And sure Dellucci proves the crowd’s unease to be true, for Diaz butchers the fielding chance as so many of his teammates do

And when the dust had settled and another lead was blown, those of us who saw the score would mutter, “might have known”.

But still two innings left to try and rally to tie the score, but as with every inning from the third, the Braves could do no more.

And then came the fateful ninth, LaRoche grounds out to first, and Aybar watches strike three go by, in the bottom of the ninth, the worst! And lastly up comes Marcus Giles, the last hope for the day,

The uppercut swing and miss is causing us to pray and then strike two comes blazing past and the umpire said, “Strike two!”

The crowd crossed its fingers as Giles waited at the bat, if only he could swat one out and that would just be that

He pounds, with cruel violence, his bat upon the plate.

And now the pitcher holds the ball, and now he lets it go, and now the air is shattered by the force of M. Giles blow.

Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright. The band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light. And, somewhere men are laughing, and little children shout,

but there is no joy in the ATL for the 94th time, Giles has struck out.

By Bob, journalist

September 14, 2006 05:16 PM | Link to this

David O’B, it’s good to find you well and in good form!

I’ve been away for some time with computer and Internet connection problems that have finally been resolved … and hopefully, the source of my frustrations can now be limited to the state of Braves’ baseball and my inability to find “brick” molassas candy.

It is refreshing that Adam has made his credentials obvious to virtually everyone … you might say that he has added an exclamation point to the opines of his supporters!

I leave evaluation of the starting pitching delima to others but see no reason why we should expect improved performance from either Hudson or Smoltz.

Hopefully someone can breathe additional life back into the Blog. Most of the posts that I’ve read seem flat and methinks that, had the Danish Prince read the recent Blogs, he would not have found his homeland to be the only place in which the state of things were odifferous … as do I.

It appears that the percentage of three digit bloggers has significantly decreased during my absence … as has the number of familiar friends and enemies.

Perhaps I’m overreacting to a few distasteful posts … but they seemed to permeate the recent Blogs that I just reviewed … I posit that those who think defaming others will add meaning and/or importance to their lives need to reevaluate their sense of self. While it may be difficult to raise one’s self to the level of another … it’s certainly more rewarding than attempts to get others to lower themselves to your own.

Pearls, pigs,”p” players and passion … or lack thereof … oh, the humanity!

By TennesseePaul

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

I sure hope the Braves don’t waste the money going after Schmidt. He’s going to be drastically over priced. And there is no guarantee of health from that clown. I wanna see some quality moves made. Maybe other GMs have stopped paying attention and don’t really know what is in the Braves system now… We got Wickman for Max Ramirez. Anything is possible.

Let’s get a win tonight guys. GO BRAVES

By journalist jimmy smith

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

oh, the humanity! it is journalist bob! welcome back, journalist. real bob, right? polonius? laertes?

By TennesseePaul

September 14, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

Nice to see you back here Bob.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 05:31 PM | Link to this

is this the real journalist bob? buy tires? eat greasy dogs? buy a suit with two pants? dean at ga tech? dean at ga state? sam nunn? please answer all correctly before this journalist can be at ease. bonus: where is the famous black diamond watermelon grown?

By Bob, journalist

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

Jimmy, 10 Paul, Et Alia

It’s good to be back … and be missed!

I’m off to Kroger’s … but, will return shortly.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 05:39 PM | Link to this

Good Lord-It’s BOB, journalist. Hello Bob.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

two more journalists and we will have 8 - the same number as braves broadcasters. jimmy smith has only this one thing to say, journalism is good and journalism is jimmy smith’s life. famous journalists on this blog include the old journalist who is blogging under a pseudonym. can you identify the old journalist? the old journalist must have blog envy of dob’s most successful wurlitzer-quality blog. and now, journalist bob (maybe- jury is still out) is here to add to the digits. bob, much has happened in your absence - but two things of particular note: dob won the wurlitzer, mccann hurt both toes, and the braves lost the division. carolina lady, you must come back to welcome bob - if really bob (wink, wink). now, baseball … this journalist thinks pat corrales should position diaz in the outfield much like chipper - back touching the wall. gotta keep him in there though, with that bat. he’s won a few with the bat.

By journalist anti jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this

I see your journalist jimmy smiths posts, but all i can read is blah blah blah blah blah blah blah psycho babble - Oh the humanity!

By Dr. Strangeglove

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

Journalist Jimmy, I can write you a prescription to help ease that paranoia. You’re giving way too much validation to these blog imposters by obsessing over them. Lighten up. Besides, a few of them who aren’t too obnoxious kinda liven things up sometimes.

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

September 14, 2006 05:53 PM | Link to this

If you notice the news, I have been arrested and thrown in the Honolulu jail today. I request that Lew come and bail me out. Thanks Brah.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this

first indication this may not be journalist bob … kroger, not publix. doesn’t bob enjoy publix butter pecan ice cream in a tub while in the tub? makes this journalist wonder … is there a publix in nashville? something journalist at first did not consider. perhaps bob already has butter pecan in the freezer. perhaps he is off for sousemeat. in this case, kroger is preferred. another thing, isn’t this a bit early for bob to be awake? game starts at 7:35. very suspicious …

now, baseball … how many chuck’s have played in atlanta? and how many chuck’s have managed in atlanta? and how many chuck’s can a wood chuck chuck if a wood chuck could chuck wood? journalist wonders.

By Drummerdad

September 14, 2006 05:59 PM | Link to this

Yeah. DOB is pretty amazing with the numbers. And they don’t lie. While we’re looking at revamping a pitching staff, maybe we can come up with some players who will be tougher in the playoffs. If I remember correctly, Maddux and Glavine were not that effective when the tournament started. And it seems as though Smoltz and Avery were nasty when post season came around. When was the last time we got out of the first round?

Glavine coming back is out of the question in my mind. Get real.

Obviously Andruw is not with us much longer. BUT, does anybody have an opinion on Chipper? The thing that compels me here is the fact that he’s been injured every year for the last 3 years. And ecah year has been worse. It seems to me that it’s time to cultivate a new 3rd baseman who can handle the load. With things as they are, we could ask Craig Nettles or George Brett if either would come out of retirement. How about a trade for somebody like Garrett Atkins at Colorado?

Todd Pratt seems like a good teammate. I trust that this is his last year. Bryan Pena seems like a good guy to have behind McCann.

What about Alfonsio Sorriano at 2nd base?

John Schuerholz said that when it became apparent that this season was not salvageable they would go to work on 2007. LET THE WHEELIN’ AND DEALIN’ COMMENCE!!!!

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

you mean dr string-love, don’t you? bring it on, sda. now, more baseball … how many strings in a glove?

By TennesseePaul

September 14, 2006 06:03 PM | Link to this

Drummerdad: While Chipper has been injured, when he’s played he’s been outstanding at the plate. I’d like to see him stay. If anything, we could secure a good back up in case he does get injured again. Maybe next year will end his rash of injuries. The oblique thing is new, but I don’t think that will recur and the initial injury was because of poor playing conditions. Actually I think we were quite fortunate his leg didn’t snap in half. That looked way worse than it turned out to be.

By Jimbo

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

After DOB, who has the best job in baseball? The Braves closer. Not much is expected of him after Reitsma and the rest of the pen can rarely get a lead to him.

By Drummerdad

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

TennesseePaul, You’re right. When he was on, it was like the kid of 1995. He was rippin’. Just can’t count on him now. I like him, this just gets to feeling like we’re being held hostage. Huge salary sitting on the bench. Do you have an opinion on Andruw?

By Dr. Strangeglove

September 14, 2006 06:13 PM | Link to this

Poor Jim. He sees SDAs all over cyberspace.

Oh, well. It’s a tense time for Braves fans.

I prescribe Zoloft.

By The Grinch

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

Greetings, All! I leave for a couple of hours and not one, but two worthy bloggers reappear! Welcome back, both 35 and Bob; you were both sorely missed in the last couple of weeks. My God, we might even have a little integrity around here now. 35, do tell me what things of interest you have for me. Did you and Drunky Clint bring me back some Foster’s? Anna Kournikova? A Duck-Billed Platypus? Jimmy, I vote “Diddy Dome.” Have to hear that fool’s name all the time anyway; might as well make light of it. Plus, that will help the ATL cope with the ongoing Bobby/Whitney tradgedy…I can’t think of any shoestring jokes but I’ll smoke some shoestring potatoes in your honnor.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 06:17 PM | Link to this

Peter Sellers, if Jimmy is paranoid, then so is about 2/3 of the rest of the blog. Although I do believe that was Bob.

By Head Coach

September 14, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

Geesh DOB , why all the optimism ? lol. I’m just kidding. I for one do believe the starting pitching will rebound next year. Between Smoltz , Hampton , Hudson , Ramirez , James , Davies , Cormier , Thomson ? and maybe a couple of rookies in Lerew and Devine (bullpen) the pitching will work itself out. I do remember 1995 and if you had walked into the clubhouse and asked Smoltz , Glavine or Maddux who had the nastiest pitching repertoire they would have all pointed at Steve Avery. Thats how dominant the Braves pitching was back in the day.

By Someone to Blame?

September 14, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

So teh question with all these pitching woes as far as I’m concerned is this: Do the Braves lay blame at Roger McDowell’s feet, and fire him after his first year, or do they chalk it up to injuries, and a poorly assembled bullpen and give him another year? I would guess the answer to this may be in how much Bobby likes Roger. Any thoughts?

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 06:30 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB Not sure if this matters, but thought that I would point it out. 1991 is also the first Full year that Leo Mazzone was the Braves pitching coach. He did become the pitching coach with the Braves in June of 1990, but how much can you do in your first year with a new team. So 91 was Mazzone’s first full year with the Braves, worst to first that year, 2005 was his last year with the Braves, last Division title won. Now, I am not knocking McDowell. He might bring them back to the top next year, but I just thought that was an amazing coincidence.

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 06:38 PM | Link to this

Someone to Blame, all I can tell you is that if they fired McDowell now, after the lavish praise that Cox heaped upon him a few weeks ago, they’d look a bit silly explaining why Bobby’s view was so drastically different than upper management….

Anybody get the new Black Keys’ album yet?…

Mike Hampton has already decided against going to instructional league, by the way. Not that it’s important, but just wanted to clarify that. I asked him about it while ago, after seeing him say he was going on a TV interview. Apparently that was taped a while back. He’s since reconsidered, doesn’t see any reason to going down there….

Sunday started undecided between Hudson and Davies, according to Bobby.

Also, Chipper not returning any time soon, Cox said. Apparently that rules out weekend vs. Florida. Bobby said side still hurts when Chipper raises arms, and can’t hit at all from right side….

By The Grinch

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

Chipper apparently didn’t do well in Geometry…

By Carolina Lady

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

35, I was just trying to give you a promotion…. (right!) It’s called typing in a hurry and the fingers tripped over each other! :-)) Or, perhaps it is DOBmath 201? But we’re all just very glad to have you back!!

Journalist Bob, you have been sorely missed, dear friend! Welcome back!

jjs, not being an Atlantan, I haven’t a clue about the old journalist. A clue would be in order. :-)

I read something nice today:
“I learned that if someone says something unkind about me, I must live so that no one will believe it.”

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 06:47 PM | Link to this

CL, my problem is that they’re usually right. :-)

By Drummerdad

September 14, 2006 06:50 PM | Link to this

Someone to Blame: I listen to Braves’s broadcasts more than I watch them and I’ve heard Bobby Cox come to Roger McDowell’s defense more than a few times. There’s been a lot of finger pointing at Roger this year. Only time will tell.
Leo was given a chance, why not Roger? Besides, what are the alternatives? We can blame John Schuerhoz for taking too big a chance on Reitsma and not moving sooner to get us a closer. He’s used to taking the blame for such things. It’s his job. And in my big fat humble opinion, he let us down this year. Out of the 30 or so blown saves we’ve had this year, 7 fewer would have us in the Wild Card hunt right now. For whatever reason he did not act. And I think that that fact along with the delayed action on Smoltz’s contract is what prompted Smoltz to call him “Homeboy Upstairs”. Frustration…

By AZBravoFan

September 14, 2006 06:51 PM | Link to this

Is anyone else here disturbed by Smoltz’s mouthing off lately? I understand that it’s a product of frustration. But from the fans and media perspective, when the team leader, the oft-proclaimed “best big-game pitcher of this generation”, consecutively halts 4, 2, and 3 game winning streaks in September when his team is desperately clinging to wildcard hopes, what are we supposed to say John? Don’t tell me about your innings and mid-season record. This team needed you NOW, and you didn’t deliver. No naturally we’re going to ask you why and speculate if you don’t have a good answer. If you pulled that in NY you’d be booed right out of Yankee Stadium.

By 10-7-4

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

Grinch, my good man—the Journal Of Labor Research reports that “people who consume alcohol earn significantly more at their jobs than non-drinkers”. Just remember me when the ‘big bucks’ come in.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 06:58 PM | Link to this

Here’s a reality check. The braves will finish 4th behind the Marlins. What’s their payroll, like 20 mil? “Remember When”, get used to that phrase brave fans, you’ll be using it a lot in the coming years.

By Budget Meeting

September 14, 2006 06:58 PM | Link to this

AJC needs to write a story on exactly what Pete and Skip plan to do during their first October off since 1994.

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 06:58 PM | Link to this

Hey AZBravoFan

John did everything he could in the earlier months to get us somewhat near a chance at the playoffs, its not his fault that he has been worn out and playing with injury because he feels that he is the only person that can help the team, other than James. Hudson??? YEAH RIGHT!!!!! So give the man a break, I for one and happy he is being vocal, he is showing a passion that I wish people like Chipper and Andruw would show.

By tyyosh

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

Any way to get the number of quality starts each of those years? As has been mentioned earlier, this stat seems way, way down this year, and the trouble appeared that very first week of the season.

Also, with all the complaint about the quality start stat for 6 innings/3 runs = 4+ ERA, it would seem simpler to count a quality start as anything 6+ innings resulting in an ERA under 4 for that game. So 6 innings, 2 runs or less, 7+, 3 runs or less would do it.

By 10-7-4

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

C. Lady—no worry-you’ve accomplished the feat. Ps. thanks for the promotion but I’d better stick with 35, lest there be more cornfushion.

By Jon B

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

NYMETS#1

You are a dumb moron. When your team has done the likes of winning 14 division titles in a row, then come back and be a jerk off, but for now, enjoy it while you can and stay off this blog, because it’s like they always say, “The sun shines on a dog’s arse every now and then” This is the Mets ‘Every now and then’ Let it shine let it shine.

By The Grinch

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

35, that can’t be right…I used to get fired all the time for drinking on the job. Why do you think I work for myself now? :-) Good to have you back.

By NYMETS#1

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

Stay off this blog?? Are you serious?? How exactly are you going to keep me off it tuff guy?

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 07:08 PM | Link to this

Do you really need me to tell you? You are going to be a gentleman, so to speak, and just take it like a man, or woman, and leave… Thats how. If you dont do that, then you shame you and your family name.

By NYMETS#1

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

you’re gonna have to do better than that redneck.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 07:11 PM | Link to this

Oh, lord; here we go again. For anyone interested in something lighter, ESPN’s Page 2 has a humerous article explaining the Braves recent success and this year’s demise; it involves the Devil and J. Shurholtz. I was gonna link to it, but the link is too long.

By AZBravoFan

September 14, 2006 07:12 PM | Link to this

Jon B: Didn’t mean to sound quite as harsh on Smoltz as I did. Guess my frustration with this season is showing too. He has been and still is my favorite Braves player during this run. The results of this season are certainly not his fault. But you help make my point. You say he’s been worn out and playing with injury. Exactly! I agree. But we’re the ones he’s yelling at. He keeps insisting he’s not worn out, and his injury has nothing to do with his performance. You know as well as I do that he had no business staying in that Cubs game as soon as he felt that groin twinge. Especially after the 2nd walk. But as you say, he’s a passionate guy and wants to stay in there. But he’s also a stubborn guy and that sometimes gets him in trouble.

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this

Let’s all smile— several moons ago, the late Harry Caray and Steve Stone were doing a Cubs game on WGN. Somewhere in the late innings ole Harry says, “now batting IVAN[as in Russian} DEE Jesus[as in Lord and Savior].Well you could hear what sounded like paper scraping over the microphone. This went on for a minute or so—just this ruffling sound, no one talking. Then in a cool calm voice ole Harry announces “that was a ground out by EVONNE[phonetically] Dee Hay Soose[phonetically. It was truly a classic moment in baseball broadcasting.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

The years when Brave fans act like they invented baseball are over. The stars are now correctly aligned and the braves will go back to what they were pre 1991. Back then the braves were a glorified minor league team.

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

AZBravoFan: I dont think he is yelling at us, just voicing how frustrated he is with this season. Which I am glad he shows something, I know I would.

NYMETS#1: Are you really going to be a douche??? Come on man, just give it a rest, your retarded team won the division, once in over 14 years, GOOD JOB!!! You must be so proud, thats like what, a .067 winning percentage in 15 years. LOL. Get off it, and I bet you dont even live in NY. You are a fake fan.

By Bright-Side Looker

September 14, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

Hey, it could be worse on this blog. At least it’s been six hours or so without any long, stultifying Shaun Payne posts.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 07:19 PM | Link to this

NYMETs#1-You are a moron and basically irrelevant. Anti Jimmy-It would help if you could, in fact, read. Dog-Bra-what have you done? Not got caught with that Maui Wowee I hope. What’s wrong? Won’t they let your tattooed kid post bail? Dude-Didn’t anyone tell you that smokin potatoes could get you in trouble. Damn, and hust married, too.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 07:24 PM | Link to this

I live on the Brooklyn side of the williamburg bridge dumba#$@ss. Let me know if you’re ever in the neighborhood.

By tyyosh

September 14, 2006 07:26 PM | Link to this

Not sure about McDowell, but 1991 through 2005 constitute the only full years that Mazzone was the Pitching Coach (peace, everyone, I know he is not coming back and I know that he did not do that great in Baltimore this year). For stat lovers, I stumbled onto this detailed analysis in 2005 that concluded that Mazzone was worth a half or more runs of ERA during the run.

http://baseballanalysts.com/archives/2005/03/themazzoneeff_1.php

The thing I miss is the old philosophy of establishing the down and away fastball as the pitch of choice. It seemed like a lot more inside pitching is happening this year, with poor results.

By Jon B

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

Big man to pick a fight behind a computer screen. GOOD GOING!! Moron. Oh, by the way, I didnt know there was a thing called the Williamburg Bridge Dumb@ss. Did you give that name to yourself, or did the mayor of New York appoint that to you himself. And how do you get such a name? Douche.

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 07:29 PM | Link to this

tyyosh I mentioned that earlier. Dont think they noticed.

By roan st

September 14, 2006 07:29 PM | Link to this

Dave, if or when the sale of the braves goes thru with liberty media what do you think will happen with the payroll. If they restrict an increase or even possibly decrease payroll will it be time for a rebuilding job? Should we try to trade some of our veterans for some young starting pitchers. This year there are several very good teams with low payroll and they all have good young arms ( minn/ fla/ oak/ det). I would rather see us start over than be mired in mediocrity for the next few years. Any thoughts?

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 07:29 PM | Link to this

Bright Side Looker, :-))))))))))))) Thanks! I needed that! :-)))))))))

By Bob, journalist

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

Thanks Lew, My Lady and The Grinch!

Yes Jimmy, you can trust Grinch, I am the real journalist bob … would I lie?

Our Publix closed so now the closest is maybe 15-20 miles away … as a result, we now frequent Kroger’s because of gasoline costs. However, I still don’t admit to eating storebought sousemeat.

We brought tires from the brother of the owner of the home of the NIPC and the greasy dogs to which you refer.

I couldn’t recall the name of the suit with 2 pairs of pants when you first asked … and still can’t … was it Hirsh?

It’s unfair of you to ask two questions with the same answer … George and George … Griffin and Manners, though I do have fond memories of a certain ‘Bama tackle and Ken Black, Jr. too.

All I know about Sam Nunn is that he won the 1956 rat race against such notables as little Bobby Dews and myself … and that my niece worked on his staff until his retirement.

I don’t know where they’re grown these days … probably Cordele … but 60 years ago, I got Black Diamonds out of my Granddaddy’s patch in Temple Georgia.

Now for supper and the game!

By Lew

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

NYMETS#1-Just why would we want to go slumming? You are a moron and basically irrelevant. A sterling memeber in good standing of the idiocracy.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

Obviously there’s a lot of she$@&*t you don’t know. I already told you my where abouts. Come up here whenever you’re ready. You might want to pack your own grits cause you won’t find any of that crap here.

By dadgum

September 14, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, I mean what the heck is Bobby doing posturing that Chipper even has a remote chance of returning. Bobby should just tell Chipper he is on teh shelf for the year and be done with it. Why antagonize a hopeless situation right now. So what , he comes back and eventually does more damage but it is good that he came back? I don’t buy the logic of the Braves here in regard to Chipper. In fact I view it as irresponsible. But that’s just me….right?

I disagree with you on the Braves needs at starter for the most part but not all. I agree we need starting help but with all we know at the moment and without betting Hampton to be the saviour coming off surgery. I don’t feel like going to war with Smoltz as our #1 pitcher. Granted he is great maybe the greatest we have seen as a competitor of late but I feel the Braves have a huge need for that very starter that is a P.R.D. pitcher and not a middle rotation guy.

The obvious retort of course is who exactly will the braves be able to outbid or out trade to obtain said pitcher. Well that is why JS makes teh big bucks, right? We can always pray that things will fall into place. Hey teams have won World Series by things falling into place. See the Arizona Cardinals but with Schilling and Johnson how could they miss.

Anyway DOB welcome back. Some of teh dudes within the blog go off on some weird tangents and really make me feel sorry for mankind. HOw could humans have been raised as such cyber fools. Their parents must have cut off their Star Trek shows back in the day.

By tyyosh

September 14, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this

Whoops, Jon, I see it now. You did mention it first. Besides his philosophy, it seems like Leo maybe instilled a certain mental toughness that got pitchers through a lot of trouble situations. McDowell might know a lot, as Bobby says he does, but you wonder if it is being effectively transmitted into actual results.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this

Shut up Lew. You try so hard to sound intelligent but you’re just making a fool of yourself.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 07:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Bob-You feeling better? We have missed your intelligence and convoluted humor. We are still, most of us, incomplete fools. There have been, however, a good number of COMPLETE FOOLs to join us since you left. We have found that ignoring them does little to make them leave. Apparently they must be told that they are, in fact, idiots, morons, and just jerks in general. Attacking CL-You know this is not to be tolerated by civilized individuals.

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this

If I ate grits, I might be offended by that, but hey, I dont eat grits. Moron. What are you going to do if I came up??? Seriously? You probably arent even old enough for me to take you out for ice cream alone. You would have the cops on me so quick. You arent even worth my time anymore.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this

Children, children. Share the toys or they all get put away. Jimmy, you fired off all of Bob’s passwords at once for stinky to write down; how will you identify him in the future?

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

September 14, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this

I think getting rid of Mazzone was a mistake but I have to soften on my position about McDowell. In fairness to him he has had little to work with. He didn’t have a healthy Thomson or Davies. James was hurt the first 1/3 of the season or so. Mazzone didn’t do anything last year to fix Hudson so it is not right to lay off his troubles on McDowell. That bullpen has been awful. If the Mets had this bullpen and the Braves had their bullpen the NL East standing would look quite differently. I think next season will be the true tale of how good or bad he is. Now, TP is another subject. I think he has to change his philosophy about “letting the guys come to him when they want help”. No. You go to them and change their ways when they are wrong (Giles and Francoeur). Seriously, Francoeur should join Hampton in the instructional league after the season.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this

NYMETS#1- You, above all others, would not know intelligence if you fell over it. You are a moron and basically irrelevant. Go perform perverse sexual acts upon yourself. You are, in fact, a complete fool.

By NYMETS#1

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

Taking little kids out for ice cream??? It’s all clear to me now Jon b. you’re one of those kinds. I know what part of the movie “Deliverence” you liked best buddy. On second thought keep your @ss down there and stay away from ice cream trucks.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 07:47 PM | Link to this

Lew, take your medication and go to bed. At this point you’re just babbling away.

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

September 14, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this

Lew - I’m all over the news, getting extradited back to Mexico on a kidnapping charge.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14839076/

By dadgum

September 14, 2006 07:48 PM | Link to this

What happened to all the music banter…hey hey Lew has 29 Jethro Tull albums. Gotta be a record.

Lew don’t let those #7 train trash heep blog denizens within here get to ya! This is their pinnacle in life… to blog and talk trash and destroying decent blogs with seething venom from the rat infested areas from which they live. Maybe if I mentioned their Saturday Night Fever rerun was on they would leave the blog.

By Ron Roberts

September 14, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this

Good blog, DOB. I just found out that Green Day and U2 are playing before the Saints/Falcons game down here in Louisiana on 9/25, so I’ll be enjoyin’ the hell outta that before enjoyin’ the hell outta the Falcons’ pounce on the Saints.

I’ve said for a good while now that (in my opinion) the Braves are in a fairly good situation for starters next season. Part of the problem with the Braves being within an eyelash of contending is that we’ve not been in a position to try things just for the sake of trying them… like just trying Lance Cormier and Oscar Villareal in the rotation with Smoltz, James and Hudson. Actually, because of injury, we basically have gone that route with them, but I say let it ride all the way out with ‘em.

Lance and Oscar look rotation-worthy to me, and I think Lance has tremendous upside. Of course with Mike Hampton coming back, the Braves essentially already will be picking up a solid mid-rotation veteran arm in the offseason. Add to Smoltz,James, Cormier, Villareal, Hudson the names Horacio Ramirez and Kyle Davies, and we have an over-abundance of starting pitching options.

Head Coach… you’d mentioned John Thomson as an option for ‘07… I highly doubt the Braves will seek a new contract with him; he’s done here.

With the $6-12 million the Braves should have to work with to better the team by ‘07, they simply need to re-sign Wickman, bolster the bullpen (or are the youngsters we’ve been losing leads with supposed to get better?) and look around for a LF who can lead off (or re-sign Matt Diaz).

I dunno; to me, it seems there aren’t really a lot of things this team needs to do to get back into contention other than re-signing Wickman and tinkering with the ‘pen a little. We’ll have more than enough starting arms to choose from.

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 07:51 PM | Link to this

Yeah, because thats exactly what I meant. Ever heard of sarcasm? Geez, go away already.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 07:53 PM | Link to this

Dadgum, that’s probably your real name.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

September 14, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if anyone read Mark Bradley’s column about Andruw’s trade value possibly going down. I wonder if JS secretly wishes he had traded Andruw back at the deadline to the Red Sox considering what has transpired since that point. He would have had a young pitcher with good potential, probably another good prospect, and a CF in Cocoa Crisp who can actually be quite good despite what people here say. If that trade had gone through the Braves would have the money in the offseason to go after Soriano, Lee, or Holiday, or simply make a trade to get someone of equal value. Now, with Andruw’s slacking production and increasing injury problems, does it make it more difficult to trade him if that is what the Braves decide to do?

By Carolina Lady

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

Suggestion to the Good Guys: ignore unwanted posters no matter how he tries to taunt you.

Menu for tonight’s supper:
sirloin roast with onion and mushroom gravey Roasted baby carrots and potatoes
Soft dinner rolls with butter
Steamed Broccoli
Sweet tea and coffee
Dessert:
homemade apple crisp with vanilla ice cream

Took me 4 hours in the kitchen, but it sure was good! :-))

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this

Wow, Carolina Lady, You sure know how to make a guy’s mouth water. That all sounds wayyyy too good. On my menu tonight??

Homestyle bake Croissants

By NYMETS#1

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

Oh look, Julia Childs has joined us. I thought you were dead. You can’t trust anything you read these days.

By dadgum

September 14, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady….Will you marry me?

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Don Roberts: Oscar might be rotation-worthy, but the rotaion isn’t Oscar-worthy. CL, that sounds mighty delicious, but I’m taken aback by your cruelty in roasting those poor baby carrots! Couldn’t you have at least let them grow up and face their fate with the knowledge of a life well lived? I’m having Chicken Cordon Bleu (prepared by Publix), which is actually beige, not bleu.

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

I guess when your team is this bad the blog morphs into a movie, music or cooking blog. I like that, it shows flexability.

By dadgum

September 14, 2006 08:11 PM | Link to this

Andruw should be easier to resign and still have trade value if they go that route. Andruw’s swift decline should be music to the ears of any Braves fan who wishes to see him remain with Atlanta.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

Andruw is the one I’d least like to see depart. He has panache.

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

Of course, Dadgum! I’d just be delighted! :-)))) (Thanks for the compliment!)

Hey, Jon! Nothing wrong with that! Today was my in-the-mood-to-really-cook day! Things have been really stressful lately and I haven’t had the time or ‘heart’ to really do something nice. It felt real good to cook a great meal. Left-overs tomorrow night! :-)))

Julia Child was quite an interesting lady. Had a very serious career in a US intelligence agency before she ever got into cooking. Yes, she did pass away a few years ago. What a character!
:-))

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this

Anyone hearing a fart in the wind? No? Oh that must be NYMETS#1, my bad.

By MeMet2

September 14, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this

NYMET#1….please quit making the rest of the Mets fans tuned in here look like jerks. Stop the slime and speak or blog with intelligence if you have any. Hopefully your mommy will tell you it is bed time and you will leave. Shape up son you are embarrasing.

To the Braves fans so engaged, the year was tough and many of you gave the Mets their due which is appreciated. Nothing lasts for ever. NOw if our pitching can just hold up in the playoffs.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

Hey, JonB, you could set that sentiment into a poular old Kansas song and describe them all perfectly…

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

Hey, Grinch! Well, ya just gotta be tough in the kitchen. Just chopped the tops right off of those little babies and tossed ‘em right into the pan! Whap! The never knew what hit ‘em. :-)))

Oh. About Andruw’s panache: I understand that a Listerine poultice helps that tremendously! He’ll be better in no time at all! ;-))

By The Grinch

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

As soon as I say that here comes a nice one. Apologies.

By MeMet2

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

can’t we all just get along!!!!!!!!!!

By The Grinch

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

CL, you silly person! :-) You’re not really gonna marry Dadgum, are you? I’d hate to have to show up drunk at your wedding and get myself into a duel…

By Carolina Lady

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

JonB, that name reminds me of the song about the “Sloop John B”. Can’t think of the name of the guy who sang it to save me, but I can hear him sing it. :-))

MeMet2, we have always welcomed good guys, regardless of the team they root for.

By 10-7-4

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

As we were waiting for our flight home we went into the airport lounge, Drunky Clint needed something for medicinal purposes. There was a sign on the wall that said, stump the bartender—drinks on the house. Two guys were seated next to us and one ordered an ‘A C D’. The bartender said without pause “Acapulco clam digger”. The guy said “WOW. The other fellow said, “well give me a S S R H C”. Again without pause the barkeep said “that’s a Singapore sling on the rocks & hold the cherry”. The guy about fell off his stool in amazement, crying man you are good. At this point ole Drunky Clint chimes in with, “well give me a 15”. A look of part pain, part panic came upon the face of the barkeep. He had never been stumped! He scratched his head for a moment and said to Clint “well buddy, I guess you’ve got me. What is a 15?” Clint replied ” a 7 & 7 DUH!!!

By The Grinch

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

MeMet2, in case you haven’t noticed we can’t even get along with ourselves! Annoyance with obnoxious Mets fans unites us like the Scots. You’re welcome however, as a rare oddity.

By NYMETS#1

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

MeMet2, stop being such an @ss kisser.

By dadgum

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

Hey Grinch I asked first. :-))) memet….welcome to the blog.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

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

I love Andruw as much as anyone. But, let me get this right. Some on here would rather keep a declining and seemingly ever increasingly injury plagued Andruw, but want to get rid of the declining seemingly ever increasingly injury plagued Chipper. Makes perfect sense to me.

By Carolina Lady

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

Well, Grinch, what can I say - a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do. sigh….

By journalist jimmy smith

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

journalist is scurrying to carolina lady’s house for any leftovers. mmm… sounds delicious. the seafood was delicious, too, carolina lady. thanks for asking. this journalist found several good seafood restaurants in and around charleston.

journalist welcomes bob back to the blog. bob has successfully convinced this journalist of his true identity. Even NORM WERM has been impersonated and cannot be considered safe these days as impostors are everywhere on this blog. caolina lady gives good advice. we should all tie a string around our fingers to remind us not to respond to the sda/stinky/etal blogger. journalist could string out this post but instead will end it with this one admonition: journalist sees no reason for chipper to field choppers for the rest of this season but if chipper shuts it down then let’s hope he also shuts it down at the ranch. let’s hope he won’t go a huntin’ first day back. and toes, chipper needs to stop wearing pointed boots. and hamstrings? the high heels and fishnets must go. uh, carolina lady … no offense but journalist does not eat broccoli. stringy, right?

By The Grinch

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

Drunky Clint sounds like he hangs out with DOB! 15 more minutes ‘till supper…

By NYMETS#1

September 14, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

MeMet2, b4 you take up arms against your fellow Met fan go back in the blog to 6:58 and read my 1st post. It was Jon b who began getting personal refering to me as a “moron” I then went on offensive mode from there. Get your shi*#@T right before you start back stabbing pal.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 08:39 PM | Link to this

Fair enough, Dadgum; faint heart never won fair maiden. I guess I just wasn’t really expecting her to say “yes”…(sob, sob) Robert(JIB), like I explained to someone earlier about Andruw vs. A-Rod; Andruw’s cool and Chipper isn’t. All other things considered, that swings the balance, pardon the pun.

By Carolina Lady

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

Fishnets???? That just doesn’t bear imagining…

Now, jjs, would I serve stringy broccoli?? Cooked nice and soft, lots of butter stirred in…..yum! Even vegetable-picky people like it!

By Lew

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

Hey Dagum-Y’all doing ok tonight? Dude, I’ve tried ignoring all these fools and they are still here. From now on I will take this to mean that they want to be told what fools and idiots they are, and I will take every opportunity to aprise them of this fact. If they get tired of hearing it they can get up and go. Makes no difference to me anymore. And Ma’am- Itruly beg your forgiveness in advance, but I am likely to earn some demerits. Amen and Selah, so be it. Thank you for the pictures you sent. The Sloop John B was a Beach Boys song, probably sung by Dennis Wilson. Now weddings- I don’t mind being there and keeping the Grinch in line, but I refuse to wear a tux.

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

Grinch—Drunky Clint drinks so much that when snakes get drunk—they see him. I really never knew he was a drinking man, till one day I saw him sober.

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this

“Remember When”, get used to that phrase brave fans, you’ll be using it a lot in the coming years.

My post at the time was in reference to what you wrote above. Did you hear us telling Met fans to get use to it for years to come?? NO you did not. MeMet2 Thank you for being a civil Met fan. Welcome. Good job on the year your team had.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this

NYMETS#1, don’t take it so personal, man. There are plenty of Braves fans (some on this blog) I can’t stand; loyalty to a team can only go so far in some instances.

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this

hey, while I’m thinking about it: Anyone who lives in the greater Atlanta area and hasn’t dined at Six Feet Under is really, really missing the best restaurant in town _ and one that looks like a dive from outside.

It’s on Memorial Drive over by Grant Park, and the fare is Southern and Low-Country, everything from Fried Green Tomatoes and Hush Puppies (both excellent) on the appetizer list to a wide variety of fish dishes and chicken sandwiches.

The Shrimp and Grits is absolutely to kill (or die) for. None better. And catfish tacos, believe it or not, are quite delicious.

The jukebox is loaded with the likes of Gram Parsons, The Man in Black, Merle, George Jones, etc. Phenomenal place, right across from the old cemetary. Look it up on the internet if you doubt my rec.

For you Mets fans _ if any of you are old enough to go out to dinner, or go on a date _ if you stop by, please don’t spit on anyone or start a fight. They’re nice people there.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

September 14, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this

The Mets should be congratulated for being the team that dethroned the Braves. Despite there being some things that have adversely affected the Braves the fact remains they failed to win their 15th consecutive division. However, it is really annoying to be on here crowing about your great accomplishment, Mets fans. Like most of you used to say winning the divison doesn’t mean anything if you don’t win the WS. And remember, kids, you haven’t even played the NLDS and NLCS yet. Worry about getting past those two series before going on about how great you are and how bad the Braves are, okay!

By MEB

September 14, 2006 08:45 PM | Link to this

journalist bob… welcome back!!! The blog hasn’t been the same without you. Dang Carolina Lady that dinner sounds good. Not even the Met lurkers can ruin things tonight.

Now back to baseball… Chuckie looks pretty good tonight, however the Braves bats are a little frigid so far.

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew—just saw where scientists at NOAA National Climatic Data Center, in N. Car issued the finding that the summer of 06 was not the hottest on record!! Go back 70 yrs to 1936 and it was hotter. What will Al Gore say?????

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

baby seal was distressed to learn of dadgum’s intentions with carolina lady. baby seal was planning to propose to carolina lady when grown. baby seal thinks dadgum is a good guy but not sure he is worthy of carolina lady. did journalist mention carolina lady also makes banana pudding and brownies? baby seal is off to north carolina now to win carolina lady’s heart. cl please have plenty of fish ready for baby seal’s arrival. he also wishes to go back out on the boat to catch a few of his own. now, more fish … it sounds fishy that the team is now dedicated to winning 13 games so bobbycox will not have a losing season. is this just beginning? well, journalist wishes them luck and hopes they can string together some wins. always with the string …

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

All seriousness aside 35, I had a friend down in South Ga recently named “cool Breeze.” Seriously. The dude was about 135 punds soaking wet, and was just as drunk at 8 am as 8pm. He stayed so drunk he had to have his handicapped brother drive him everywhere in a golf cart. He still managed to work 10 hour daily shifts in a metal factory…anyhoo, the one time in 10 years he stopped by my house washed and sober I honestly talked to him for 5 minutes without knowing who he was. Y’all think I’M bad.

By Lew

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

DOB-No Tull or Night Ranger on the old juke box? Is it a Wurlitzer? I’m sorry, you may get me to listen to Johnny Cash, but catfish tacos are definitely NOT going to get it. NYMETS#1-Jon B seems to me to be a quite perceptive individual. Actually, he showed remarkable restraint calling you a moron. But don’t feel too bad, you can always leave if you don’t like hearing it.

By The Grinch

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

Journalist Jimmy, when Baby Seal catches fish does he put them on a stringer? DOB! Finally some props for Six Feet Under! When I moved back here in april that was the first date I went on with an old friend (we’ve since had it out, though)…ate some fried green tomatoes and drank some Bass ale. THAT was the place I was trying to remember a couple of months ago when I was telling you about people in high heels falling down the stairs every two minutes. Sit by the front door across from them if you can; it’s great entertainment. Plus the cemetary is a romantic place to walk afterward, if you’re a sick puppy like me. :-)

By The Grinch

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

Crap, I better go check the oven!

By Lew

September 14, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

Grinch-Remind me to tell you a cemetary story sometime more appropriate. BTW-What did you think of the Kansas? 35-Al(Damn you Al we were blissful in our ignorance) Gore may yet prove to be right. Why else would the yaks and Musk Oxen have moved to Cordele when the Glaciers melted?

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 09:06 PM | Link to this

Grinch- one day I saw Drunky Clint in Wal-Mart and he had a new shirt and pair of pants in his cart and I inquired what was going on. New clothes are just not Clint. He said he was going to church on Sunday. I nearly fell out!! I didn’t inquire as to the purpose of the wig, and dark glasses. I assumed he might not want anyone to recognize him out of embarrassment for previous life-style. Later, I found out he had been kicked out of the church—seems he went thru the communion line 9 times!!!!

By Jon B

September 14, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

“Remember When”, get used to that phrase brave fans, you’ll be using it a lot in the coming years.

My post at the time was in reference to what you wrote above. Did you hear us telling Met fans to get use to it for years to come?? NO you did not. MeMet2 Thank you for being a civil Met fan. Welcome. Good job on the year your team had.

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

jjs, baby seal will always be first and foremost in this lady’s heart!

If things here progress as I expect, I will actually be able to get back to the birdhouse business soon and hope to ship by the end of the month. HOPE to!

I now have a replacement Mother’s in-home aid and (fingers crossed!) I think this one will work out well. (toes crossed also, just in case!)

By journalist anti jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

Oh the humanity!! - journalist jimmy smith continuing psycho babble with seals! Please Mr. Psychiatrist, find jimmy smith soon, give him his meds, he must not be around sharp objects.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

lew, journalist must agree and draw the line at catfish tacos. pull the string, if you will. what is dob thinking? the other menu items sound very tempting. and hushpuppies … should they have onion? this journalist wishes to take a pole on whether hushpuppies should have onion. sorta like the banana pudding meringue controversy awhile back. dob was on the wrong side of that one, too. how did he win a wurlitzer? carolina lady, addressing your question about the old journalist … are you unaware of the old journalist? jimmy smith can tell you of the old journalist but must do some research first. it is believed that the old journalist started out as a stringer with his hometown paper in north carolina … there we go again with the string. where is it all coming from???

By Lew

September 14, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

Ma’am-That’s good news. I know you’re tired. I’ll have packages out next week after I get some better prints made.

By JJMB

September 14, 2006 09:12 PM | Link to this

Attention native born Southerners If you haven’t figured it out yet, the nation is divided into northerners, Southerners, and Westerners.

Additionally, if you’ve never lived outside the South, you have no idea the contempt and ridicule the South is subjected to. The short story is the rest of the country views the South as a Deliverance film. Inbred sodomites, to put it buntly.

Don’t be so quick to be friendly to those that laugh behind your back.

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 09:17 PM | Link to this

JJMB, that’s because of their ignorance. Frankly, I don’t care what they think and I’m sure they could care less what I may/may not think of them. And they have no idea just how much fun it is to simply BE Southern! :-)))

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

JJMB-maybe the Northerners and Westerners need to figure out that we don’t give a crap what they think. Besides they must not think too badly of us—cause they keep moving here!!!!

By Lew

September 14, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this

Well- I never had homosexual sex in the woods to banjo accompaniement, but I was born up north. Even living in the south for over 35 years I never saw anyone have sex while listening to banjos (Led Zep maybe, but not banjo music), but I suppose it is possible.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this

One vote for onion! As for the catfish tacos, I didn’t try them but I would. Gentlemen! Where’s your sense of adventure? Lew, good stuff, though the potatoes were no doubt partially responsible.

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

Lew— ole Drunky Clint once told me “if you ever have sex with an animal, let it be a horse”. Despite all, I asked ‘why?’. He said “cause at least you’ll have a ride home”.

By bears51

September 14, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

I’m a 30-years Braves fan now in VA, posting for the first time. Hey DOB, do you remember Sports Trivia on Friday nights on a certain Braves radio station? You guys had the funniest sports show I have ever heard. Tough year for the bravos, at least Pascual Perez and Rick Behenna aren’t starting, yet. As for NYMETS#1, you can talk about the Braves returning to futility all you want, but what team holds the major league record for most losses in a season, oh yeah, the ‘62 Mets!!!!! Go Braves (and to borrow a phrase from the Cubs) wait ‘til next year.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

Sex without banjos? Lew, I take it you have no close female relatives…OK, enough with the stereotypes! Besides, we have ladies on this blog.

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

Of course hushpuppies have finely chopped onion - and a dash of garlic!

By JJMB

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

Hey, I’m just telling you. That’s the way it is.

By Lew

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

35-Clint is a wise man beneath that inebriated exterior. He could have been an advisor to Catherine the Great. Grinch- I also vote for onion. Those fried green tomatoes sound real good, too. There used to be a place in Warner Robins called Haddon’s that had great fried green tomatoes and squash casserole. Good fried chicken, to. No banjo music and sex shows, though.

By Carolina Lady

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

Hey, bears51! Welcome to the blog! What part of VA?

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

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

Lew, I’m still waiting…go to my bail bonds store and get me out on bail, and Leyland too

By Carolina Lady

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

JJMB, I traveled all over the US and Europe for many years and found that I was always treated well and with respect. I have no problem with what “people” think. That is their own lack of experience and misconception. They are certainly no better or no worse than any of us Southerners. Why should I worry about it? I can only influence those with whom I have contact whether it is in person, on a blog, or whatever - and that influence is through my own conduct and demeanor. I learned long ago not to fret about things over which I have no control. Besides, I doubt it is 100% of them.

By The Grinch

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

Hate to dissapoint all you Catherine the Great fans, but in reality she died of a stroke while sitting on the john. Learned that much to my dismay in a Russian history class at Southern. However, she was quite the ‘ho otherwise.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

Dog-Now you can see how the other half lives. I told you to leave that Kona Bud alone. Dude! Grinch-Russian history at Ga. Southern, a class taken by a football player? Why am I skeptical? Did basket weaving fill up too fast?

By 10-7-4

September 14, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

Grinch— I asked Drunky Clint if he had learned anything before he got kicked out of church? He said he had learned God’s real name!! I was puzzled and ask him what was it?? He said “Harold”. I quickly asked how he figured that? He told me “the preacher said so”. I asked when did he say that!! He said “the preacher said, ‘let us pray—-Our Father who art in heaven, Harold be Thy name!!! Seems little Clint also caused a disturbance in Sunday school!! The teacher asked “where is Jesus today??” Well, one kid said—“in Heaven, with the Father.” Another said —“in my heart”. Little Clint piped in with “in my bathroom”. The Sunday school teacher asked him how he figured that- and little Clint replied “every morning my Dad, goes down the hall, and bangs on the bathroom door, calling —Jesus Christ, are you still in there??? Needless to say they were asked to leave!!!!

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

CL, I haven’t made it out of America yet, but I’ve done a good bit of travelling (and some living) in other parts of this great land. My experience matches yours in all but one place: New York. JJMB is right when it comes to that place. Certainly there were a number of decent and friendly people, but you’d be AMAZED at the general ignorance of and nasty bias toward the south prevalent there.

By Dog the Bounty Hunter

September 14, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

I was the other half, i’ve lived the other half, i’m the good guy now. Help a brutha out.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

Grinch- Was having sex while listening to banjo music a required PE course at Ga. Southern? What do you expect from NY? Even Philadelphia thinks they are barbarians. I’ve been to Montreal. Coming back to the hotel after a Braves/Expos game, there were people smoking potatoes on the street. None of them went ot jail like Dog, either. Really, no one even cared. How civilized.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

Lew, it was a graduate level class, Mr. smarty-pants. I didn’t always lead with my helmet. However, the teacher WAS an alcoholic. :-) Speaking of alcoholics, Drunky Clint sounds like he went to school with Little Johhny…

By JJMB

September 14, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this

CL, I’ve lived in the West for 24 years, and I’ve traveled a bit too (4 continents),and I don’t care what people think of me, either (can anyone here doubt that?).

No, it’s definitely not 100% of them (maybe Lew?). I was just stating a generalization that I have found is true most of the time.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

now, grinch, there you go again getting catherine the great confused with elvis. happens entirely too much. now, jjmb, if what we’ve seen is all they have to offer, let’s not be too concerned about what they think. we improved tea - with a little sugar and ice - and we tamed the hominy that ran wild on the prarie. southerners are very, very smart.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 09:49 PM | Link to this

I wish that WAS a required course; there were an inordinate number of hotties at that campus. Even in the graduate classes they were at about a 5-2 ratio.

By TheSouthernJackAss

September 14, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

Great blog there DUB—Sounds like a bunch of geezers from over at the Old Folks Home blogging with those “special people” up at the Nervous Hospital—and this little jimmy s** or whatever you want to call it is so damned obsessed with the SJA that I think some of you great friends of his should maybe try doing an intervention on his stupid as$ and get him some help—Ron Roberts, I left my email address for any of you tuff guys that want to tussle with the SJA—funny thing, no response from you so far, bytch, or anyone else for that matter…..by the way, where’s ol’ Richard Cory today???…

By Lew

September 14, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

JJMB-Not me, brother. I’m an adopted son of the south. Went to school in Georgia (Go Dawgs), was married in Macon and my son was born in Athens. I’m as southern as you can get without having been born there or having sex while listening to banjos. YeeHaw. Doesn’t that convince you? I like grits, too.

By 10-7-4

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

Grinch—was John also dead???

By The Grinch

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

Hence my arrivng there with an Associate’s and leaving four years later with a broken heart, a swollen liver and 10 credits short of my degree.

By Lew

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

Now Jacka$$-You are really not relevant enough to want to fight. At least you are a southerner and we all make allowances for the 2x4 sized chip on your shoulder. Don’t worry, we figure you’ll get help someday. Why bother emailing you. We can tell you what a jerk you are right here. Get over yourself.

By JJMB

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

Lew, please excuse yourself from my rants.

By The Grinch

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

You totally lost me on that one, 35. Come again? Jimmy, my bad; everyone knows there is no such thing as alcoholism among Russians…

By Carolina Lady

September 14, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

35, you are sharp tonight! :-)))

By TennesseePaul

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

GO BRAVES!!!!!!

It’s Chuck James B!tch!

What a game. Chuck James just keeps improving, he’s amazing. Wicky, solid but a little nail biting. And Martin Prado. Way to go Martin! The difference in the game.

Now to read the posts and catch up…
GO BRAVES

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

Who mentioned anything about a fight?—I’m offering a good ol’ fashioned a$$ stompin’!…didn’t figure Lew would be up for any of that!!!…

By Lew

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

JJMB-Rant on, Dude. Grinch- I really shouldn’t say anything about Ga. Southern. We didn’t even have Wednesday classes at Mercer. They called Tuesday Night “Study Night”. Right.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

journalist bets sda was listening to the banjos while making his tough guy post. banjos have strings. right? talk about stroking on the toilet this sda probably would be a candidate … can say that, right?

rr is no sissy, sda. he tried to e-mail the southerndumbasz@yahoo.com but the e-mail was returned.

now, baseball … wicky is in the game. and the losing streak is ended. let the new winning streak begin.

By eware

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

DOB, I got the new Black Keys album. It rocks so frickin’ hard. Why are they not the biggest band in America?

As Nigel Tufnel would say (and I said in earlier blog), “Their album goes to 11!”

By Lew

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

Now Jacka$$-Let us not get our BVD’s in a wad. I didn’t call you a moron or ask you to leave, did I? Now, we know you’re an angry person with a God Awful attitude, but you’re OUR aangry person with a God Awful attitude. We know you’re really a big Teddy Bear under that ruff and tuff exterior. Abide Dude-medication works wonders. Just ask Grinch or Clint.

By Greg

September 14, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

I know everyone will disagree. They’ll dispute me with the performance of the Orioles staff. But losing LEO was huge. He was with us all 14 titles. Truly a great man. And he and Bobby worked well together. Plus, no flurry of pitching injuries when he was coach. LEO is the man and no stats his first year in Baltimore will convince me any different.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

Never mind, 35; I finally got it. Hee-hee!

By Lew

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

Even Leo wouldn’t have won with what McDowell had this year.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

Apparently my last post didn’t go through. I finally got it, 35! Takes us heretics a little longer for that sort of thing…:-)

By Clyde & Skippy

September 14, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

Jim Smith you seen to be in pretty tight with Ron Roberts there son, anything you would like to tell blogland about that relationship?

By TennesseePaul

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

Didn’t miss too much.

Well, I’m stoked on this game tonight. Wish I could have seen the whole game.

By The Grinch

September 14, 2006 10:23 PM | Link to this

NOW it shows up. I’m off to bed, Y’all; got an early morning ahead of me. Behave and abide!

By TennesseePaul

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

Greg, et al: The Orioles point is a huge point. The caliber of pitching they have, is on par with what we have. And it’s not just the Orioles, HoRam showed great improvement, despite the continued inability to stay healthy. Chuck James is doing well. Smoltz has continued to be Smoltz. Cormier is looking solid. McBride has drastically improved. Villarreal is looking better. For as much crap that has come his way, there is a fair amount of gems he has. I’d say, give him another year and some better pitchers. Let’s see what he can do with 3 hall of fame type pitchers.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 14, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

let’s take another pole. round shoestrings or flat? how many vote for round? sda/stinky/et al is back. time to leave for tonight. let the one-man conversations begin. don’t string it out though.

By SDA

September 14, 2006 10:33 PM | Link to this

Jimmy Smith loves to talk about SDA, because that is what gets him attention. jimmy smith, from what I can tell, lives in a basement and has “good feelings” when ladies post on this blog. Jimmy Smith needs to quit talking about seals and pie and toes and focus on his real problem… the lack of attention that mommy gave him….i feel so sorry for him…..NOT!!! OH THE HUMANITY, JIMMY SMITH SHOULD NOT BE TRIFLED WITH!!

By Skippy

September 14, 2006 10:37 PM | Link to this

You leaving jimmy? Must be lights out at 11:00 P.M. there at the asylum. Sleep tight jimmy smith, don’t let the sja haunt your dreams!

By Shaun Payne

September 14, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

Greg,

It seems there was something special about Leo Mazzone. Maybe it was Cox, Mazzone and Schuerholz’s powers combined that did something for Braves pitchers. I think Mazzone played a huge role in the success of the pitchers, but the combo may have been perfect. But then again, the Braves pitchers weren’t that good in 2003 or 2005.

Also, the Braves obviously had some great pitchers, but look at the bullpens that Cox, Mazzone and Schuerholz put together. The Braves always get a bad wrap because people remember two or three big homeruns the bullpen gave up in the post-season but overall the Braves bullpen was pretty darn good. The amazing thing is they did it with unheralded rookies and castoffs in many years.

By Head Coach

September 14, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

Its official , Chuck James is the ace of this pitching staff. A little lights out pitching , a home run and a three run bomb along with Wickman nailing it down in the ninth……… Its just a precursor to what this team is capable of in 2007. I’m Chuck James BIATCCCHHHHHH !!!!! lol

By Lew

September 14, 2006 10:46 PM | Link to this

SDA-Apparently your mama gave you way too much attention. Did you hear banjos in the background. Talk about inbred individuals.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

Shaun-It was probably a lot easier to be a pitching coach when you have three HOF’ers on your staff. Not only that, but who know? If Avery hadn’t hurt his arm, it could have been four. He may have been the best money pitcher of the bunch.

By SDA

September 14, 2006 10:50 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’ve read the posts today, and apparently you aren’t really the one to be talking…nobody has really cared for your opinion today…you ornery cuss.

By SDA

September 14, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

Got plenty of attention from your mama too there Lew!!!…

By Lew

September 14, 2006 10:53 PM | Link to this

SDA-If you don’t like my opinion, you could leave. If you choose to stay, I can only think that you enjoy being called an inbred idiot. Get used to it. Whether or not you stay or go, you will still remain an inbred idiot. Get over yourself. You are not even relevant.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

SDA- It’s a sure sign of moronic tendencies to keep using maternal slurs. Believe me, it says much more about you than it does the person you attempt to ridicule. Just the mention of banjos still sets you off, doesn’t it.

By SDA

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

Lew…buddy…pal….read the words…I DIDNT SAY that i didn’t like your opinion. I said OTHERS didn’t like it…please pay attention in your old age.

By nathan

September 14, 2006 11:02 PM | Link to this

Nice Blog, DOB.

NINETY & FORTY! Now that’s INSANE. That may never happen again, with all the pitch counts and relief specialists in todays game.

I agree with you about Oscar and Cormier. Funny how we trade Estrada for the two of them to help the bullpen, and they both seem better suited to start, isn’t it?

Either way, we need help in the rotation AND pen. So if either of them is not in JS’s “plan” for next year’s rotation, maybe they’s shown enough down the stretch for somebody to make a deal with us for them. (are they both under contract next year? I assume they are.)

You speak of the Braves needing a veteran pitcher to give them 200 innings and a reliable arm? People, I hate to say it, but all of the signs are pointing to a Tom Glavine return. He’s said he’s open to it, if the Mets don’t pick up his option, and he is closing in on 300 wins. What better place for him to do that, but back “home”?

I personally think he will still cost too much money for JS. Unless the Mets “dump” him and he is willing to take a MASSIVE hometown discount. But we are talking about Tom Glavine ie: MR. UNION. On one hand, I have ZERO problem with Glavine coming back. As long as he’s the “Charlie Liebrandt” of the rotation. Meaning, the veteran innings eater that DOB described. But it seems to me that we have (allegedly) two of those guys on the rotation, in Hudson and Smoltz. But if we bring him back to be the ACE of the staff, it’s a BIG mistake. As far as I’m concerned, DUMP Hudson to anybody that will take him ang bring Glavine back. At least we KNOW what we’re gonna get out him on a nightly basis. Plus, why not have the MASTER teaching the student (Chuck James, aka “mini-glavine”)? It would either be really good having those two together, or REALLY bad having to “junkballers” in the rotation at the same time. But the way I look at it, you can never have enough lefties in the rotation. Even though neither of them actually get lefties out all that well.

Before you guys crucify me, think about it. I’m not asking or begging for it. Hell, I’m still not sure I would encourage it or support it. But it makes WAAAAAY too much sense to do it. Besides, how could adding Tom Glavine make this rotation any worse?

Answer: It wouldn’t.

By Lew

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

SDA-What others might that be? Your other personalities (or is that lack of personalities)? Well, it is a moot point, after all. It doesn’t matter which persona you choose to inhabit. You are recognizable as an inbred idiot in any and all incarnations.

By Stinky

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

The “Good Guys” and SJA should get a room, tie each other down with round shoestrings, eat overcooked food, and stomp each other’s azsez while listening to banjo music. After that you can all fly up to Vermont and get hitched.

By TheSouthernJackAss

September 14, 2006 11:08 PM | Link to this

It’s evident that jimmy smith hasn’t left yet!…and I still haven’t received any emails from anybody that wants to play a little Cockball with the JackAss!!!…

By gotigers72

September 14, 2006 11:09 PM | Link to this

Looks like Bobby finally got tired of the Kyle Davies Show. I’d say he jerked him pretty early last night wouldn’t you? Is he hard headed/stubborn or can he just not physically throw strikes and keep the ball down in the zone? If he doesn’t figure it out soon, he’s not ever gonna be a successful ML pitcher. By soon, I’d guess a couple of years since he’s only 22. But he needs to get started now.

Don’t use the excuse that he just came off the DL and is still recovering from his injury. He had 6 or 7 rehab starts in the minors, and went 7 or more innings in the last 2. He did well in his last few rehab starts. But you can get away with pitching behind and up in the zone in the minors, but that crap won’t go against ML hitters. Hopefully he’ll get his mechanics straightened out over the winter and that will help him show mucho improvement for 2007.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this

Now Stinky-What’s wrong? Didn’t you get your invitation? Don’t be talkin ‘bout the Jacka$$ like that. He’s just an angry person, not an inbred moron like the rest of you. At least not in his Jacka$$ persona. It’s a good thing your shoes are velcroed, Dude, otherwise you’d have to take your hand out of your pants long enough to tie them.

By SDA

September 14, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

What others might that be, Lew?? Have you read the blog today?? Damn man, is it alztheimers?

By nathan

September 14, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

Isn’t there a Ron Jeremy blog you guys could talk about your “wangs” on?

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:16 PM | Link to this

SDA-Yeah, some haven’t liked what I have to say, but it only seems to be the mental midgets with the anal retentive tendencies. Fortunatly, they, like you, are totally irrelevant.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:18 PM | Link to this

Now Nathan-Ron Jeremy? Really!

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

eware, I MUST get the new Black Keys album pronto.

(That’s some hard blues-rock, in case Jackball or JJM-whatever or any of the other unwelcome no-taste-having geeks are wondering. We don’t follow trends down here, boys, we set ‘em. When you leave your momma’s houses you might learn to like real music and food _ but probably not. Go Mets.)

Just in case you guys were wondering, gonna post this shortly about Chipper. They put him on DL tonight just to trigger the insurance they have on his contract. He’s eligible to come off DL on Tuesday, about when they thought he might be ready to play anyway.

HERe’s the brief story I wrote at last minute. They just announced it after game:

Chipper Jones was placed on the disabled list Thursday in order to activate the insurance policy on his contract, an unusual move made more so by the Braves being so open announcing the reason behind it.

Jones has been out since reinjuring the oblique muscle in his left side Sept. 3, and wasn’t expected to be ready to play before the middle of next week, the Braves said.

“Since he was not going to be able to play anyway, this made all the sense in the world,” general manager John Schuerholz said of the move, which he announced after Wednesday night’s game.

Schuerholz knew that if the Braves didn’t announce why Jones was going on the DL, there would have been numerous questions. Since rosters are expanded in September, there would have been no other obvious reason to put Jones on the 15-day DL, since the Braves wouldn’t need to open a roster spot for someone else.

Before the game, manager Bobby Cox said Jones still had pain when he raised his arms and that the switch-hitter wasn’t able to swing from the right side yet. Jones has been taking left-handed only batting practice all week.

His DL designation was retroactive to Sept. 4, meaning he’s eligible to be activated Tuesday. Schuerholz said Jones would be activated Tuesday or as soon as he’s ready.

It’s the third DL stint this season for Jones, batting .318 with 23 homers and 79 RBIs in 101 games between trips to the training room.

Schuerholz refused to discuss details as to the terms of his insurance policy _ not how much of Jones’ $11 million salary is covered by insurance, how many days he had to be on the DL for the policy to be triggered, nor anything else.

By SDA

September 14, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

Poor Lew, people who don’t agree with his opinions (which includes many from what the blog shows today) are just “mental midgets with the anal retentive tendencies”. Poor Lew, maybe people just think your opinion is complete crap…ever think about that?

By Stinky

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

You guys all seem like a happy family. I guess that’s where the banjo music comes in.

By David O'Brien

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

For the regulars and other interesting folks who blog here rather than come to unleash their pent-up anger from being beat up in junior high and stuck in a low-paying job:

Would you agree it’s safe to assume Will Rogers never met jackball or MetsFan1?

(somebody please explain that to those limited individuals)

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:26 PM | Link to this

SDA-Yeah, I think about it. I, in fact, have a brain. I realize the concept of a brain is more than you can handle, but I will abide with you anyway. See, the difference is that I don’t take myself seriously. If left to my own devices, I would generally be a very nice person, wishing no one ill. My reaction today has only been in response to you and the other anal retentive idiots who don’t care for my opinions. I will sleep just fine this evening even if you don’t like my opinions. I really don’t care. But if you insist on coming into this section of the blogosphere and giving everyone constant doses of your equine excrement, then don’t get upset if you’re told what a jerk or an idiot you are. Apparently you can dish it out, as the old adage goes, but you sure do get upset if someone hands it back to you. Whatever, you remain irrelevant. Get over yourselves.

By Stinky

September 14, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this

You guys all seem like a happy family. I guess that’s where the banjo music comes in.

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 11:27 PM | Link to this

SDA/Stinky, just so you know, nobody likes you guys here, is the vibe I’m getting.

They’re just not getting your sense of humor. Frankly, I don’t either. I’m trying, personally, but, well, you guys just aren’t very funny. We’re’ just into a bit more of the sardonic (look it up) and irrveverent sort of humor here, rather than the gutter stuff you guys offer. But again, nothing personal. Keep trying.

By nathan

September 14, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

Shaun Payne (major?) just kidding.

You raise a reasonable argument about the Braves “past” bullpens, and the 1 or 2 homeruns that was their “demise” each post season. Yes, I agree, they always seemed (they being Bobby and Leo) to assemble a cast of relatively unknown or unsung heros into the bullpen each season and had remarkable success while doing so.

But on the flip side of that argument, is the fact that they had TRHREE ACES in the rotation and in 1997 you could argue that it was 4 with Denny Neagle. Not a HOF candidate, but very good for those two or three seasons in the late 90’s. My point is this. When you have that many guys in the rotation that go out EVERY night and give you a quality start (and I’m not talking about the quote-unquote quality start that the pundits talk about), I mean QUALITY start (7-9 inning allowng 3 or less - usually less runs), you don’t need much of a bullpen, do you? Now post season is a WHOLE DIFFERENT BALL OF WAX, so we won’t go there. But over the long haul of a 162 game season with those starters, we basically needed 3 “arms” in the bullpen to fill the following categories:

CLOSER. That’s pretty obvious what that is so we don’t need to go into details.

SPECIALTY GUY. Usually a lefty on lefty kinda guy. Remlinger comes to mind. Yeah, I know. He doesn’t actually get lefties out. But Bobby used him that way for a LONG time.

DOUBLE PLAY GUY. We’ve had an awful lot of these guys throughout the years. McMicheal, Clontz, Seanez, Hammond, Paronto, etc…….

Anyhow, the rest of the guys in those bullpens in the 90’s were merley “bodies” to fill the roster out. Obviously there were assorted quantites of guys that come up as starters and filled long relief roles in the pen. Millwood, Pete Smith, Chen, Marquis, etc….

Not trying to argue with you, but our starters or LACK THERE OF, nowadays, is what makes it NECCESSARY to have an outstanding bullpen. Because we’re gonna need 2 or 3 arms on a nightly basis. Not one or two arms two or three nights a week.

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this

And yes, there is a pretty happy family here. You guys are like the folks from across the tracks, who, knowing you have no hope of gaining acceptance here, lash out like 5th-grade bullies. Well, the internet version of 5th-grade bullies. Because we ALL know which side of the bully/geek equation you guys were on.

And it wasn’t the side doing the pushing and taking lunch money.

BTW, for banjo music, a lot of us prefer the Del McCoury band, others Flat and Scruggs. But yes, they’re definitely are a lot of people here who dig sophisticated pickin’.

By TheSouthernJackAss

September 14, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this

DOB—Better be careful, your going to let your 2 ton mouth overload your 2 oz. a$$—next time Gilligan I won’t feel sorry for your pale a$$ and walk on past you!!!…

By SDA

September 14, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this

Lew, my good friend, if that was true, you wouldn’t be arguing today….confess buddy…you’re amongst friends…

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 11:34 PM | Link to this

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Stop by and say hi, zitface.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:35 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB- You don’t agree with my opinion of Tull or Night Ranger. Did I ever call you an anal retentive idiot? But then again, I never thought you were a mental midget. See SDA- I tailor my remarks to those who deserve them. David is being generous attributing a sense of humor to you, even after all of the crap you hand to him. Dude, If you stroked your brain occaisionally instead of other parts, you might just come to the realization of just how irrelevant you really are.

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

I’m leaving the ballpark now, driving home. So don’t be offended if I don’t answer any of the petulent little uncreative responses you’ll be spewing in the next hour, now that your chain’s been pulled.

By nathan

September 14, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, now that wasn’t very nice of you. The politically correct thing to say would’ve been:

“Hey, acne challenged little boy. Maybe you should try some PRO-ACTIVE. Then the girls won’t laugh at you when your eating you PB&J sandwich Mommy packed for you at lunch!”

By SDA

September 14, 2006 11:38 PM | Link to this

Lew,…you are SUCH A KISS A$$

By David O'Brien

September 14, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

Lew, of course you didn’t call me that, because we’re real human beings who actually enjoy engaging in conversation and hearing what others have to say about music, baseball, food, and life in general. When folks have no interests and no real life to speak of, they don’t like to see other people having interesting conversations that don’t pertain to them or to which they can’t relate, because they’ve been left out of those. So with the advent of the internet, they can lash out, throw the figurative rocks and punches.

Just let them pout and lash out from their little bunkers. I figure we’re doing humanity a service, keeping these sad little folks behind their computer screens.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

Nathan-Acne challenged. Dude, that’s good. SDA is indeed a challenged individual. On many fronts. Have you started to freeze in ND yet? It’s almost time for the snow tires. Now Jacka$$-If you don’t calm down, your blood pressure will go too high and you’ll pop a blood vessel. Then someone will have to carry that chip on your shoulder for you. Loss of motor control would not be good for you. How would you whip any a$$? Abide, Dude, I’m sure someone loves you.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

SDA- Now if I really was a kiss a$$, I wouldn’t have told David that catfish tacos were not in the least appealing. Now your response there was a case in point. You could have used the term “Brown Noser”, which means the same thing. But you had to use nasty words. What that indicates to me is that you really liked those spankings Mommy used to give you for being nasty. You just need another spanking to feel good about yourself.

By Stinky

September 14, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’brien, I’ve made two posts here tonight. I Read a lot of back forth between the “journalists” and the gang of one. Really, they seem to feed off each other. Jimmy was baiting sja with quite a few posts and seemed happy for the confrontation. Lew seemed almost affectionate at one point toward SJA: “Now, we know you’re an angry person with a God Awful attitude, but you’re OUR aangry person with a God Awful attitude.”

And I’ve got nothing against blue grass. I like it. The comment about banjo music was borrowed from the context of one of the remarks made by lew about sja being inbred.

I was just making an observation.

By nathan

September 14, 2006 11:54 PM | Link to this

Lew

Sunny and 80’s today. But the forcast for Monday - Wednesday, not so good. High’s in the low 40’s.

When you here the term “Any given Sunday”. That’s not pertaining to football. That’s a statement about our weather possibilities up here.

In 1997 (I remember it well because the Braves had just made the Lofton trade), we had upper 80’s for about two weeks at the beginning of April. The we got 27 inches of snow in like 4 days. The reason I remember is because the baseball season had just started, and I had just bought my first satelite dish, and wouldn’t you know it? Those DAMN things don’t work very well burried in snow!

So yup, it’s that time of year, where if you’re going on a weekend trip somwhere, you bring a bag with your swimming gear and your snowboots. Because you’re not quite sure which ones you are going to need!

Good night all.

By Stinky

September 14, 2006 11:58 PM | Link to this

Lew, I apologize if I came on too, strong. I have enjoyed a lot of the banter.

By Lew

September 14, 2006 11:59 PM | Link to this

Stinky-The banjo music was mentioned by someone who felt that northerners looked upon the sons of the south as characters from Deliverance. The banjo music was a reference to a famous scene in the movie. The inbred part just kind of suggested itself by the level of intelligence lacking in the posts of our more vitriolic crowd. Now Jacka$$- He is OUR angry person with a bad attitude. He is not to be trifled with, much like toes. Jacka$$ is not inbred, nor did I ever say he was. I said SDA and yourself, as well as NYMETS#1 were inbred. Get your facts straight or the Jacka$$ will threaten you with bodily harm.

By Ptown Bravo

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

*”…I’m not asking or begging for it. Hell, I’m still not sure I would encourage it or support it. But it makes WAAAAAY too much sense to do it. Besides, how could adding Tom Glavine make this rotation any worse?

Answer: It wouldn’t.”*

Nathan, it’s like you’re reading my mind, dude.

By Stinky

September 15, 2006 12:08 AM | Link to this

Lew, I’ll try to toe the line. Sorry if I did not attribute correctly.

By TheSouthernJackAss

September 15, 2006 12:09 AM | Link to this

All I have to say to you David O’Brien is that you sure are one obnoxious, little Son of a B***!!!…if that isn’t enough to bring you out from behind your keyboard and be a man—nothing will you gutless twerp!!!…Last comment ever, see you in the real world b***!!!…

By Lew

September 15, 2006 12:10 AM | Link to this

I, too, thought Glavine’s return would be good, but that was another of my opinions people didn’t like. It would be nice to see someone win 300 as a Brave for a change. Stinky, maybe I do you a disservice, calling you inbred. Oh well. I may be wrong. I thought I was once, but I wasn’t. Good Night. Abide one and all. Sleep tight and be careful the Jacka$$ don’t get ya. Back in the morning. Dog, did anyone bail you out yet?

By David O'Brien

September 15, 2006 12:18 AM | Link to this

PTown, believe me, you’re not alone in bringing up the possibility, however remote, of Glavine returning. And I’ve got a sneaking suspicion it’s not that remote. Let’s just put it this way _ it wouldn’t shock me. Really wouldn’t. Not saying I’ve heard one thing to indicate it’s going to happen, but it just wouldn’t shock me.

Stinky, sorry to lump you with in with the mopes and misanthropes. You sound like a decent dude. My bad.

Nathan, you’re right. I should have been nicer. Your PC response was much better than mine. Jackball, I didn’t mean to call you zitface. Sorry.

By Stinky

September 15, 2006 12:19 AM | Link to this

Ptown Bravo, Glavine would expect at least 7 mil. There’s got to be someone better than a 42 year old with an 82 mph fastball out there for 7 mil.

By Ptown Bravo

September 15, 2006 12:19 AM | Link to this

You know who’s good on the banjo? Steve Martin. Yeah, the Jerk. Gotta love Earl Scruggs on the banjo with Lester Flatt & Bill Monroe, too. Nickel Creek and Yonder Mountain String Band can flat out pick it, though I think they’re neither southern, nor inbred (but, honestly, who knows these days).

By nathan

September 15, 2006 12:27 AM | Link to this

Anything to help DOB!

What actually is Glavines “option” with the Mets? Is it his, theirs, or does it automatitcally kick in if he reaches a certain ammount of innings?

In your opinion who is the most “tradable” of the pitchers on the staff? HoRam, Davies (nice touch with showing Avery’s stats in 1990 - it does make you realize that his is ONLY 22!), Hudson? I won’t add Chuck James to this list, due to the fact that I think he’s shown his value as of late. Besides last time we traded for an already established ACE (Hudson), it didn’t work out so well. So I’ll assume that James isn’t going anywhere.

I’m really torn on the possiblility of a Tom Glavine/Braves reunion. But as much as my brain says NO, “been there, done that”. My working half of my brain says “why not?”

By Ptown Bravo

September 15, 2006 12:34 AM | Link to this

Stinky, there’s probably younger talent for half the price to back up 1st for the Mets, but how many of them could bring the intangibles that Julio brings with his million dollar salary and billion dollar biceps? Hard to find value anywhere when we’re talking proven, reliable starting pitchers in Major League Baseball in the early twenty-first century. A good point, just one that is difficult to circumvent in this market. But what the hell do I know - I listen to banjo music and blog with a bunch of souse-eatin’ rednecks, cheering on a team in a city I’ve never even seen.

By Ptown Bravo

September 15, 2006 12:38 AM | Link to this

DOB, listening to Magic Potion this very minute.

If I could play a guitar like that…

…I’d rule the world.

Again, thanks for the enlightenment.

By Train Wreck Bystander

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

Back to baseball…

I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the pitching staff (starters & bullpen) took a tailspin this year, the first year in ages without Leo Mazzone. But I don’t necessarily think it’s because Mazzone left. I just think he saw the writing on the wall and got while the getting was good.

By Head Coach

September 15, 2006 01:45 AM | Link to this

Glavine a Brave again ? I dunno , let me think about it for a second…………. yea what the hell ! He is as reliable a starter as you can ever want. Did you know : In twenty major league seasons , he has never been on the DL. He has averaged 15 wins a season and 34 starts a year. On second thought , the Mets would be nuts not to pick up his option ! especially considering he is about to crack 300 wins next season. Yep , the Mets not picking his option up for 2007 would be totally idiotic.

By Head Coach

September 15, 2006 02:37 AM | Link to this

Some more interesting blather about Glavine. He broke into the majors in 1987 . His teammates were Dale Murphy , Phil Niekro , Gene Garber , Bruce(EGGS)Benedict , Ted Simmons and Doyle Alexander. Alexander was traded in august of 87 for Smoltz ( the brainchild of Bobby Cox)and he would break in with Atlanta in 1988. Did you know Cox was responsible for drafting Kent Mercker , Mike Stanton , Steve Avery , Ryan klesko , Vinny Castilla ,Javy Lopez and Chipper Jones. John Schuerholz became the GM in 1991 and drafted Jason Schmidt and traded him , drafted Kevin Millwood and traded him , drafted Jermaine Dye and traded him , Drafted Mark Derosa and traded him , drafted Wes Helms and traded him. Ditto for Jason Marquis , Adam Wainwright and Zach Miner , are you starting to see a pattern here folks ? Cox was a much better GM in my opinion. Schuerholz has a long history of treating the talented players in the Braves system as a tradeable commodity rather than a valued part of its future and thats my only gripe concerning JS. I guess I better shut up , this post is getting way to long.

By Tomahawkin

September 15, 2006 03:33 AM | Link to this

D.O.B…I have no life other than classes, partying , and working…Ur not gonna bash me…?lol

Seriously though, I’ve only watched about 20 games this year, becuz Total B.S. (TBS) Is that bad…

Gawd I miss the old dayz of 145 games on TBS, It seems like the braves downfall began when A.O.L. Took over and turned TBS into Total.B.S….

Holla…

By berigan

September 15, 2006 06:30 AM | Link to this

Head Coach, Glavine has gone on the DL once, just this very season with the blood clot issue…would like him back as well. What the heck, offer Maddux and Glavine a cool 2 mil each to play here next year! ;)

By tyyosh

September 15, 2006 07:54 AM | Link to this

I heard talk somewhere that Glavine would come back for a year and then move into the front office.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

Glavine is has been pretty valuable the last few of years even at his advanced age but I don’t know if it makes sense to bring him back. He’s going to decline at some point and you don’t want to be the one stuck with him when he does. The Braves could probably get a pitcher likely to be more valuable for a lot less.

By Head coach

September 15, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

The Mets kept Glavine out of the rotation for two starts , but he was never on the DL.

By rammerjammer

September 15, 2006 09:17 AM | Link to this

Look at the prospects for next year’s rotation and EVERYONE is a question mark. Smoltz (age), James (just his second year), Hudson (a flop), Hampton (injury-prone), Davies (not ready for prime-time) and Cormier (no track record). Therefore, Glavine makes a TON of sense.

By NLCHAMPS

September 15, 2006 09:23 AM | Link to this

Magic number in down to 1, We can thank the braves for that. The Mets will steam roll through the national league playoffs all the way to the World Series!!!!!

By Michael A.

September 15, 2006 09:24 AM | Link to this

I went to the Lips show. It was one of the best concerts that I have ever seen. War Pigs for the encore made me want to rip off my clothes and light my hair on fire.

I disagree that Chuck James is going to be a solid middle of the rotation guy for several years. I think that he will be a solid top (either first or second starter) for the next several yeas (maybe not next year, but soon), just like he was in the minor leagues.

By ssiscribe

September 15, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this

Top of the morning, folks. The Scribe has been busy scribing away with half the staff out sick or on vacation. Laying out pages left and right this week, but all in all, things are well.

I’ve had a little one sick at home part of the week, and frankly, some of the new folks on here have really been hard to deal with. But, seeing the rest of the regular gang back on here prompted me to jump back into fray.

Chuck James has pitched himself into the rotation, folks. Love his makeup and love the way he battles. Indeed, he reminds me of a little Tom Glavine, which is why I don’t think you’ll see Tommy wearing a tomahawk next season.

Smoltz, Hampton (if healthy), Hudson (assuming he’s not dealt, which I’m 50-50 on right now), James and a host of other talented arms for the final spot. I honestly don’t expect the 2007 rotation to be as good as the old Glavine-Maddux-Smoltz rotations, but no way will this bunch be as bad as they’ve been this year.

Re-sign Wickman first and foremost, and go from there. Of course, I’m talking about 2007, but I haven’t totally given up on 2006 just yet. It’s just a matter of time, but still, I have some hope.

—30—

By NLCHAMPS

September 15, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

If the Mets make it to the World Series that will be twice in seven years. Not bad considering all the trash you brave fans talk about the Mets. I know we have to get there first but confidence is high. Pedro’s back on the hill and the rotation is just about set for the playoffs…..Lets go Mets!!!

By geauxbraves2000

September 15, 2006 09:55 AM | Link to this

I’ve been away for a couple of days, haven’t read everything so again if this has been discussed, or if I’m beating a dead horse, I apologize.

Anyhow, I hope Hudson rebounds and has a decent year next year. Of course, I also hope it’s in another uniform.

I’ll give Kyle Davies until the end of the season, but I’ve watched him over the past couple of seasons, and he just doesn’t have “it” yet. Get some more experience this year and see if he can turn it around, but my money is on “not”.

I had hopes when the Braves took a 5-0 lead Wednesday, but then I saw a 5-0 turn into a 5-2 lead and I knew the Braves were done. Then with Hudson in the 2nd game, well, I just knew it was going to be a long day for the Braves and I was right. It’s been a sad year for Braves fan. Not the losing, just the way they’ve lost, unreliable starting pitching and a really bad bullpen. I am very thankful for Wickman, so at least I don’t dread the 9th inning with the lead.

Okay, long enough, I’m done.

Geaux Braves.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this

rammerjammer,

I don’t know if he makes a ton of sense. Depends on the price. Sure, next year the Braves are depending on a lot of things to go right with pitching, but every team depends on a lot to go right with pitching every year.

Smoltz is relatively old, but he’s been a question mark for a while. James is young, but barring injury he should be fine. Same with Davies. Hudson has been a flop because of his contract, but he really hasn’t been a bad pitcher.

True, there are a lot of concerns, but really it’s no different than most other teams, even many contenders. The rotation for next year probably isn’t going to make anyone forget the ‘90’s, but that was probably the best rotation ever. If the offense is close to how it was in ‘06 the pitching just needs to be at least average.

Glavine could make the staff stronger but if the Braves overpay for him, it will hurt. And I just don’t think Glavine is going to accept a $1-2 million deal. He’s probably going to at least demand in the $4-5 million range.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

I’ll give Kyle Davies until the end of the season, but I’ve watched him over the past couple of seasons, and he just doesn’t have “it” yet. Get some more experience this year and see if he can turn it around, but my money is on “not”.

Davies is probably 4 or 5 years from his peak years. Of course injuries are always a concern for pitchers, but he hasn’t had any major arm injuries that I know of. And given his K/BB and HR ratios throughout his pro career, I’d be surprised if he isn’t at least a solid major league pitcher soon.

By **Jon B**

September 15, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, speaking of food. What do you think about Rachael Ray?? She comes up with some great dishes. I want to try her Vodka Cream Pasta. It sounds sooo good.

By **Jon B**

September 15, 2006 10:12 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB, speaking of food. What do you think about Rachael Ray?? She comes up with some great dishes. I want to try her Vodka Cream Pasta. It sounds sooo good.

By journalist jimmy smith

September 15, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

scribe, welcome back! when journalist penn returns we will indeed have many journalists on this blog. did you note the return of journalist bob? that journalist is napping now but should be ready to blog again soon. you are correct that signing wicky is of primary importance. fix the pen and fix the problem. another starter would be nice.

By Lew

September 15, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

Scribe-It is more than possible that there never has been before or since, a rotation with what could well be three HOF’ers together for over ten years. It is unrealistic to think, in this era of free agency, that it will ever happen again. Everyone thinks we should rushmout and pick up all the great young pitchers we can, even to the point of trading tried and true players. I just don’t think there is that much pitching available and everyone wants it. Maybe we need to take an AL approach and get the Boomers to win every game 12-10. Just like the Mets.

By Richard Cory

September 15, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

SJA- I’m here. Yesterday at 10:34 am. and again at 10:38 am. I posted to stinky about patiently waiting and watching. Well I heard nothing from him at all. Then you wonder where I am, per your post 9:51 pm. Makes one curious as to why you would be concerned with me, when I have only dealt with stinky. Could it be?? Naw, surely not!! Of course, in blogland, we can be whomever we so desire.

                                        Oh, I wish that I could be, oh, I wish that I could be, oh, I wish that I could be---Richard Cory

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 10:30 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Good point. What the Braves had in the 1990’s was extremely unique. What’s more unique is that they stayed healthy for all those years. Most top pitching prospect become nothing. Most top hitting prospects become something.

As far as trading tried and true players for youngsters, I think it’s smart to trade vets for youngsters before the vets start to decline (generally before they turn 30).

As I’ve said, I think one of Schuerholz’s weaknesses is his refusal to take chanced on other teams’ prospects. It’s kindof strange because he trusts young players so much, just not other team’s young players. He’s never raided another team’s farm system, ala Terry Ryan and Billy Beane. He probably has the opportunity to do that this offseason, so we’ll see what happens.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Good point. What the Braves had in the 1990’s was extremely unique. What’s more unique is that they stayed healthy for all those years. Most top pitching prospect become nothing. Most top hitting prospects become something.

As far as trading tried and true players for youngsters, I think it’s smart to trade vets for youngsters before the vets start to decline (generally before they turn 30).

As I’ve said, I think one of Schuerholz’s weaknesses is his refusal to take chanced on other teams’ prospects. It’s kindof strange because he trusts young players so much, just not other team’s young players. He’s never raided another team’s farm system, ala Terry Ryan and Billy Beane. He probably has the opportunity to do that this offseason, so we’ll see what happens.

By NLCHAMPS

September 15, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Lew, you’re misinformed about the Mets. They don’t have to win every game 12-10. They have the 2nd best ERA in the National league. That stat confirms this. I do agree they have a stong line-up but you should know that it takes more than that to win consistently.

By TennesseePaul

September 15, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

Head Coach: Did you know JS drafted Andruw and kept him. Francoeur and kept him. Eddie Perez and Kept him. McCann and kept him. Chuck James and kept him. LaRoche and kept him. McBride and kept him. Do you see a patern here? Most every position on the team was drafted and kept by JS. It’d be nice if we could have a 100 man roster and no need to trade our draftees, but seriously, we didn’t lose a thing by drafting any of those guys. As I recall, our winning streak officially ended 2 days ago. Most of those players were gone long before. Some of them you listed wheren’t traded, they simply weren’t offered contracts when they were free agents. Cox was also the guy responsible for some questionable moves. I’d also rather have Cox managing the team on the field in the duggout than up in the front office.

By ncscoots

September 15, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

Bob, good to see your name, bro…

I love it when the fat man slings, but, folks, he’s not the only closer out there. Nobody’s disagreeing that a closer needs to be in hand before spring training (I think), but let’s not get so focused on one guy. My personal wish list includes Mike Gonzalez, but why would the Pirates trade the guy, short of prospect robbery?

Anybody look at available free agent pitchers available in the winter? There isn’t one on the list, available at a mid-rotation price, that I would want to see in a Braves’ uni. So trade is the only way to go, IMO. But who?

By Lew

September 15, 2006 10:42 AM | Link to this

Shaun-I’ve been trying to make the point lately that we should nnot expect anything different from JS this offseason. Even in this most untypical of all his GM years here, things have been done the “Braves’ Way”. Now. ‘m not debating how effective this way is or whether he should have tried something new this year, but there has been no deviation from his norm. No reason to expect it will happen this offseason. Lots of Braves fans expect him to trade veterans and pick up kids. He won’t do it. Neither will he make massive changes. What he will do (and you can hold me to this prediction) is he will resign Wicky (he won’t make THAT mistake again). He will (maybe) make one large trade (Like Edgar last year) and he will fill holes in bullpen and bench with available veterans. Now I’m not so sure this is that bad an approach for 07, but will likely do nothing for the future. They will, as usual, leave the future to 08 and the farm.

By Greg

September 15, 2006 10:48 AM | Link to this

You know I disagree with the people who say LEO couldn’t have helped this pitching staff. Look at Hudson. Veteran. One-time future Hall of Famer, and he’s a mess. LEO could have helped that. Maybe LEO would have noticed that Davies was injured before he screwed up his groin so bad that he was on the DL all summer. Nothing against Roger, but the veteran pitchers respected LEO and the young guys were afraid of him. Letting LEO go without even a counter offer was the dumbest thing Schurholz ever did.

By ncscoots

September 15, 2006 10:52 AM | Link to this

just now catching up on some of the blog content…Shaun, I don’t think Braves will sign ANY mid-rotation guy at 1-2MM. That price is just too far below market value. 4-5MM would be about right, if they go that way (and Robert, please don’t bring up Ted Lilly again at any hour prior to food intake…gaaack!).

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this

ncscoots,

I think Schuerholz “has” to try to trade Andruw and Giles because they are going to be too expensive for the Braves to re-sign. Getting a couple of young pitchers would be nice. Maybe Brandon McCarthy of the White Sox or Cesar Carillo of the Padres or Ervin Santana of the Angels.

By geauxbraves2000

September 15, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this

Shaun, In reference to Kyle Davies, I sure hope you’re right. He came into the league and set the world on fire, but whatever did then he has lost now. Mechanics, adjustments as hitters adjust to him? Who knows, but he better step it up and learn better mechanics or learn to adjust or whatever or he won’t be around long. I look at Maddux’s first year, along w/Glavine, et al, and maybe there is some hope. Maybe I’ve been too rough on him. It just gets aggravating seeing the same results over and over.

It sure sucks to say this, but the Braves could play spoliers the rest of the way. There is still a small hope of a wild card birth, I won’t give up until they are officially eliminated, but I am accepting the fact that it probably won’t happen. Still, I plan on rooting them on until my lid is closed.

Geaux Braves!!

By Dark Helmet

September 15, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this

From espn.com:

Braves rookie Chuck James threw seven scoreless innings to earn the win against Philadelphia. James made his first major-league start on June 25 and he is 10-3 with a 3.45 ERA since then. The only other major-league pitchers with at least 10 wins since June 25 are Jon Garland (11) and Johan Santana (10).

Wow. Bodes well for next year.

By flbravesgirl

September 15, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this

Bob, 35 and scribe have joined us again! Welcome back, guys!

I don’t expect him to win it, but don’t y’all think Chucky will get some Rookie of the Year votes? He’s been a lot better than anyone expected, I hope he gets some recognition for it.

By ncscoots

September 15, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this

well, angels could certainly use some more thump, but how much is Santana making? Wasn’t he on the DL earlier for something? I don’t really keep up with the AL as much.

By ncscoots

September 15, 2006 11:19 AM | Link to this

Shaun, sorry, was thinking of Escobar, not Santana, re salary and DL. Santana’s only 23, and under $1MM, so I doubt Angels would part with him.

By Lew

September 15, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

The Mets have the second best ERA in a radically subpar year, MLB wide. Do you seriously think they could have won by this much if there were really competition? Yeah, there the best the NL has to offer this year, no doubt, but the field this year is pretty pitiful. Yes, Braves included. I still think the Mets pitchers have made it on offense, chewing gum and baling wire. There’s is NOT that great a rotation. The bullpen, however, has been excellent. That’s why your ERA is as low as it is.

By TennesseePaul

September 15, 2006 11:33 AM | Link to this

Payne, RJIB: How much do you suspose Andruw will command as a free agent? What is your ballpark prediction in length of contract and annual value of contract? Min/Max.

By Lew

September 15, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

FLBG-I think DOB posted something about ROY award while you were gone. The common thought is that there are so many good rookies this year, like Uggla and half of the Marlins, that James won’t get much consideration, no matter how deserving. Now about trading Giles and Andruw. We need to look at their possible trades in terms of JS past performances. I refer everyone to my 10:42 post. He will look at the Andruw and Giles situations like he always does. He will see Andruw as a power hitting player capable of producing MVP numbers that he will not be able to replace at a better price. He will look at Marcus as being the best $5million 2nd baseman available, with no one really ready to take either of their places. When has he ever traded established veterans for kids? I can’t remember him doing it. Add to this the fact of the money saved by attrition of Thomson, et al and the reduction in Smoltz’s salary if they pick up his option (and they will) and JS will see enough $$ there to keep Marcus and Andruw and resign Wicky. All of this without trading anyone. If a trade is made, I will bet that it involves minor league talent or someone like Thorman. He will NOT let Andruw or Marcus go. Not only that, but EVERYONE is looking for pitching. You saw what was offered for Andruw earlier. NOTHING. It won’t be different in the offseason. Look to past performances.

By atlprofessional

September 15, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

..in Zanadu did Kubla Khan,

..a stately Pleasure Dome Decree,

..where Alph the sacred river ran,

..through caverns measureless to man,

..down to a……………..you tell me.

By Lew

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

Sunless sea. Thank you ST Coleridge.

By TennesseePaul

September 15, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

Lew: Didn’t JS trade Justice?

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 11:54 AM | Link to this

ncscoots,

I think Schuerholz “has” to try to trade Andruw and Giles because they are going to be too expensive for the Braves to re-sign. Getting a couple of young pitchers would be nice. Maybe Brandon McCarthy of the White Sox or Cesar Carillo of the Padres or Ervin Santana of the Angels.

By btoy

September 15, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

DOB, I know he has already stated that he inttends to stay with the O’s but would Kris Benson be a good fit with the Braves? I would love to see a Clemson Tiger on the team.

By NLCHAMPS

September 15, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this

Lew,I agree about the rotation not being a their “strength”. The point I was trying to make was that They’re not blowing teams away with offense alone. As for your braves, the first thing you have to do is trade chipper. He’s injury prone and doesn’t seem to have the fire he did several years ago. Andruw needs to slide down the batting order where his strikouts won’t end rallys.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

I would guess Andruw will want in the $15 million a year range.

By Lew

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

Ten Paul-Yes, he did, after Justice pi$$ed everyone off by questioning fan loyalty. But didn’t he trade him for a veteran? I don’t think JS takes chances on other’s kids. Even so, Justice is one trade in 15 years. Hardly a track record in favor of him dumping vets.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

I think Andruw will ask for in the $15 million a year range.

By Carolina Lady

September 15, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

I got a good chuckle over the image of MRS Benson fitting in with the rest of the Braves wives. :-))) mmmmmmm, I don’t think so……….

By Jim

September 15, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

The left field/lead-off hitter for next year? One possibility is Kelly Johnson. He has some power, has a very good eye and has had a good On-base percentage in his brief time when healthy. I like his approach at the plate and his swing (a bit like McCann). He has reasonable speed and should be given consideration for the lead-off role. (His defense, however, is the main drawback.)

By Lew

September 15, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

TenPaul-Yes, he traded Justice, but not for young talent. Besides, one such trade in 15 years hardly a trend makes. Shaun-Why must JS trade Marcus and Andruw? When has he concerned himself with getting players for an about to depart free agent? He doesn’t-they just play out their contract and they are gone. Marcus is NOT too expensive to resign. $5 million for a second baseman of Marcus’ offensive AND defensive capabilities is relatively cheap. He’s had an off year, but he is hardly washed up. The guy had family problems in Spring Training and got injured early. He has come on like gangbusters after a slow start. He’s still the Marcus we have known these past years. So what if Andruw leaves via free agency? If he does, we will have his $13 million to spend and also receive a compensatory pick. We will not have lost anything. You will have had Andruw’s performance for an extra year before he goes. When he’s gone, they will replace him and have the money to do it.

By Rip of California

September 15, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB anything new on the sale of the Braves? Hopefully something will be done before the end of the year.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 12:25 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul,

I think Andruw will want in the $15 million a year range.

Lew,

I do agree that Schuerholz will try to re-sign AJones and Giles because they are still young enough to remain very productive. I just don’t know if he’ll be willing/able to give them what they want. If he can’t work out something with either player, I would like to see him try to trade them. But I don’t think he should pull the trigger unless he gets at least a couple of top prospects for each. He can always move them for something at the deadline if the Braves fall way out next year.

It would be nice to get some top young players (from other organizations) around the ages of James, Davies, Francouer and McCann so that the Braves are in the same position as the Twins are now in four or five years.

By Lew

September 15, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

I’ve tried twice to post this so I will try again. TenPaul-Yes, he traded Justice, but not for young talent. Even so, one trade does not a trend make. JS will view Marcus as a bargain for $5 million and he really is. No one is ready to take his place and he is one of the best both offensively and defensively. JS will look at Andruw as a power hitting Gold Glove outfielder who he could not replace at his current salsry. When has he ever concerned himself with losing players to free agency? I reference Glavine, Madux, Javy, etc., etc…… A leopard does not change it’s spots and a tiger does not eat Caesar salad when Caesar is not available for fine dining. Js and BC will NOT change the way they do business.

By Jim

September 15, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

The left field/lead-off hitter for next year? One possibility is Kelly Johnson. He has some power, has a very good eye and has had a good On-base percentage in his brief time when healthy. I like his approach at the plate and his swing (a bit like McCann). He has reasonable speed and should be given consideration for the lead-off role. (His defense, however, is the main drawback.)

By Lew

September 15, 2006 12:42 PM | Link to this

I’ve tried twice to post this so I will try again. TenPaul-Yes, he traded Justice, but not for young talent. Even so, one trade does not a trend make. JS will view Marcus as a bargain for $5 million and he really is. No one is ready to take his place and he is one of the best both offensively and defensively. JS will look at Andruw as a power hitting Gold Glove outfielder who he could not replace at his current salsry. When has he ever concerned himself with losing players to free agency? I reference Glavine, Madux, Javy, etc., etc…… A leopard does not change it’s spots and a tiger does not eat Caesar salad when Caesar is not available for fine dining. Js and BC will NOT change the way they do business.

By Jim

September 15, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

Will Boby PLEASE give Francouer a few days off!!! We don’t need somebody trying to be an ironman at the expense of his production. During the first half of the season, Francouer got himself out swinging at unhittable balls, but when the pitch was a strike, he usually made contact. Lately, he is being much more disciplined (for him) at the plate, but he is swinging and missing or fouling off a lot of strikes. As a first-full year player, he has never played such a long schedule, and we don’t need to be encouraging him to start a long, career-shortening consecutive game streak ala Dale Murphy.

By The Grinch

September 15, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if Kris Benson would fit in with the Braves. I DO know Anna Benson would fit in with the Grinch…:-)

By Carolina Lady

September 15, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

The blog must have the hiccups! :-)))

By DonCoburleone

September 15, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

Wow, those numbers are pretty staggering… AND WHO STILL BELIEVES (OR IS DUMB ENOUGH TO ASSUME) THAT LEO MAZZONE’S DEPARTURE THIS YEAR HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE SHARP DECLINE IN QUALITY PITCHING?

By Lew

September 15, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the triple post. I’m having computer difficulties-or this site is-whatever, Morning Ma’am-or is that afternoon. Shaun-I’m not even talking about resigning Giles and Andruw. Giles is only up for an arbitration raise. I think he will go to arbitration and play for the Braves next season, rather than be traded. I don’t think JS will even attempt to negotiate with Andruw in the offseason or all of next year. He just doesn’t do it. Whether or not Andruw remains a Brave is immaterial to JS as far as getting something in return for him bvia trade. JS is a VERY geometrically thinking GM. He travels the straight line-the shortest distance between two points. He is going to make the fewest deals he can get away with. That means he will resign Wicky because he won’t dare to NOT sign him. Anything else is debatable. Chipper is basically untradeable because of his age, injuries in recent years and contract status. He wouldn’t even be a viable DH with a tendency towards oblique injuries. I’m not saying JS will be wrong or right in his usual approach. But I am sure that his usual approach is definitely what we will see.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

It would be nice to get some top young players around the ages of James, Davies, Francouer and McCann so that the Braves are in the same position as the Twins are now in four or five years. That could happen if Schuerholz is willing to trade AJones and Giles.

By Lew

September 15, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the triple post. I’m having computer difficulties-or this site is-whatever, Morning Ma’am-or is that afternoon. Shaun-I’m not even talking about resigning Giles and Andruw. Giles is only up for an arbitration raise. I think he will go to arbitration and play for the Braves next season, rather than be traded. I don’t think JS will even attempt to negotiate with Andruw in the offseason or all of next year. He just doesn’t do it. Whether or not Andruw remains a Brave is immaterial to JS as far as getting something in return for him bvia trade. JS is a VERY geometrically thinking GM. He travels the straight line-the shortest distance between two points. He is going to make the fewest deals he can get away with. That means he will resign Wicky because he won’t dare to NOT sign him. Anything else is debatable. Chipper is basically untradeable because of his age, injuries in recent years and contract status. He wouldn’t even be a viable DH with a tendency towards oblique injuries. I’m not saying JS will be wrong or right in his usual approach. But I am sure that his usual approach is definitely what we will see.

By David O'Brien

September 15, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this

T-hawkin’ why would I rip you? You’re pleasant, enthusiastic, and open-minded. We only rip the misanthropes who come here and try to bully everybody because they envy the decent folks who simply want to have conversations with others about the Braves and life. We pity those so miserable in their own skin that they can’t stand to read the harmonious dialogue of others, but we also aren’t going to just sit back and take it.

Regarding James for ROY, he’d have a chance in some years, but not this one, unless he reels off three or four more dominant wins. Even then, might be too late to get many first-place votes, considering the performance of the rookie-laden Marlins.

Now that you mention it, that might be a good subject for a new blog. I’ll get on it.

Oh, and no, I don’t think Benson would fit in here, just based on little comments or lack of response when his name’s been brought up in recent years. Just never seemed like Braves were overly impressed with him, but much of that might have to do with the negativity surrounding his wife and the appearance that she’s running that domestic show as well as his career.

Greg and others, regarding Leo: Maybe it’s not obvious, but do you guys realize why they didn’t make a counter-offer for Leo? Because they didn’t want to keep him. Don’t ask me to list the reasons, because it’s a long, difficult response and much of it’s off the record stuff. But suffice to say, he seemed to have worn out his welcome in this organization, where they like their coaches to be behind the scenes, not in the spotlight, and where it was long felt that Leo got a bit more credit that should have gone to the pitchers themselves, while those same pitchers thought most of the credit for the starters’ success through the years should have gone to Bobby. Just telling you what those starting pitchers tell me, especially after they leave here.

By Ptown Bravo

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

Head Coach, I think that’s some pretty astute commentary on Bobby v. Homeboy. Having enjoyed this unprecedented ride as much as anyone, I would hope that by the time Bobby’s knees hurt too much to amble out to the mound he still will have enough baseball left in him to ride the elevator up to the front office.

And for anyone to suggest that Leo could’ve produced radically superior results with the same pitching staff Homeboy gifted to Roger this year is completely unfair. From Hudson to Reitsma, the travails of this staff has been scrupulously well documented on this very blog.

But, to be fair, let’s remember that with all of our struggles this season, Roger’s staff still has seven more wins, seven less losses, and two more saves than Leo’s staff.

In Bedard, Benson, Cabrera and Lopez, Leo has four young (Benson is the oldest at 31), live arms. Those young guns under Leo’s legendary tutelage have to this point pitched less innings, given up more earned runs, walked more and struck out less than the Braves. Leo’s staff is next-to-last overall in the majors in ERA, and the Orioles trail the Braves in every sortable pitching stat available to me on short notice.

The 2006 Atlanta Braves are most certainly a train wreck, but Roger McDowell can hardly be fingered as the conductor who couldn’t keep the Braves on track.

By DonCoburleone

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

A couple of points in regards to the starting rotation. One thing DOB said in the article and I’ve been hearing alot in other articles is Kyle Davies and his “head” issues. That to me is a GIANT red flag for any athlete in any sport, especially for a starting pitcher who has to be able to forget about his last pitch and focus solely on the pitch at hand. I’m not saying I think Davies is going to turn into a Rick Ankiel or anything like that, but it may cause him to take more steps backwards than forwards. He may already be taking steps backwards, which is definately not good for a 22 year old trying to develop. Maybe next year, if you really look at it, Davies will be the odd man out and start the year in AAA. It may be the best thing for him in the long run, and I don’t think the Braves rotation is going to be too depleted next year to have Davies back in the minors.

Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, James, and Ramirez with CORMIER being the extra 6th starter at the major league level. Let Davies work on some stuff down where he can dominate and it may allow him to progress much more quickly since it is all a head issue with him.

By David O'Brien

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

Grinch, I can’t disagree. But fortunately, saner men than us make such decisions without the, uh, influence of such peripheral concerns. I think.

By the way, if you never bought that CD I recommended long ago, James McMurtry and the Heartless Bastards’ “Live in Aught Three,” you should put aside all appointments and responsibilities until you go and purchase it. Today.

Man, it’ll change your life. It’s the best, rawest songwriting you’ll hear, and the between-songs banter with McMurtry _ son of the writer Larry McMurtry _ and the crowd is great.

He writes songs about working stiffs, down-and-out, families, drinking, etc. Criminally underrated performer. Get the album, man. Get it.

By TennesseePaul

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

Payne: I could see Andruw asking for that, but I don’t know if he’ll get it, or at least, Boras is going to have to work for it. Every excuse given for trading Andruw is a good arguement against that much money. His poor batting average and mega slumps and streaks he goes through. The only consistancy he has in a season is his defense. On an annual basis you know what you’ll get, but it isn’t straight through the season. The only argument against Andruw I’m not buying is the injury argument. Andruw is never on the DL. He has aches and pains like everyone else, but so far he has produced what he usually produces and played excellent defense.

At any rate, I think he’ll be retainable for the Braves. If the Contract is mid to front loaded, then he can make the bulk of it while Francoeur, McCann, et al are still fairly inexpensive. Also, Hamptons contract won’t be around after a few years, and neither will Hudsons, even if Hudson isn’t traded.
He’s the only veteran that would have a contract which would extend beyond 2010. Meaning he’d be the only long term deal on the books. And, at 15 million a year from other teams, I think he’d be willing to listen to 14 million or maybe even 13 to stay with his family here in Atlanta at his home with the team he’s played for his whole life. I don’t know how much of a “discount” he’ll be willing to make, but I think he would be willing to make one. I think, the only thing that would keep him from Atlanta is if a team came in, like the Dodgers did last year, and offered Andruw 5 to 6 million more a year than every other team in the hunt.

All that said, I don’t think it’s reasonable to trade him. Andruw hasn’t peeved any fans. He’s hit 30 homers this year and drove in 100. His defense is still solid. JS still wants to win. Even if he can’t resign Andruw, Andruw being a Boras agent means Andruw is going to produce like never before in his walk year and the Braves could stand to gain a lot from that potential production.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 01:17 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

I believe Mazzone’s departure may have something to do with the pitching problems, but not as much as a lot of people think. I mean there were a couple of years (2003 and 2005) when the pitching wasn’t great. Also Baltimore seems to have some talented arms, but they aren’t a really good pitching team.

This is just speculation, but this is my somewhat educated guess: I think Mazzone deserves a lot of credit, but I also think it was Mazzone and everyone else: Schuerholz, Cox, Corrales. Mazzone was in a perfect situation for what he preached: hitting the spots with the fastball and control. And the Braves were (are?) an organization built around pitching to the defense and defending to the pitcher. When Mazzone was here the Braves had a lot of quality pitchers and defensive players, Schuerholz got him some quality pitchers and defensive players, Cox and Corrales did what it took so that the defense was in-sink with the pitchers and vice versa.

By DonCoburleone

September 15, 2006 01:30 PM | Link to this

A couple of points in regards to the starting rotation. One thing DOB said in the article and I’ve been hearing alot in other articles is Kyle Davies and his “head” issues. That to me is a GIANT red flag for any athlete in any sport, especially for a starting pitcher who has to be able to forget about his last pitch and focus solely on the pitch at hand. I’m not saying I think Davies is going to turn into a Rick Ankiel or anything like that, but it may cause him to take more steps backwards than forwards. He may already be taking steps backwards, which is definately not good for a 22 year old trying to develop. Maybe next year, if you really look at it, Davies will be the odd man out and start the year in AAA. It may be the best thing for him in the long run, and I don’t think the Braves rotation is going to be too depleted next year to have Davies back in the minors.

Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, James, and Ramirez with CORMIER being the extra 6th starter at the major league level. Let Davies work on some stuff down where he can dominate and it may allow him to progress much more quickly since it is all a head issue with him.

By Ptown Bravo

September 15, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone, mark me down as among the 1st to admit to being dumb enough to believe “THAT LEO MAZZONE’S DEPARTURE THIS YEAR HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE SHARP DECLINE IN QUALITY PITCHING.”

I fimrly believe that Braves’ pitching was by the Dog Days of 2005 at the angle of repose, and all it took to knock them off stride this year was a long, wet west coast road trip to start the 2006 season. A complicated confluence of events and circumstance of which uncle Leo was merely one of many rolling stones down a long, slippery slope.

By DonCoburleone

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

A couple of points in regards to the starting rotation. One thing DOB said in the article and I’ve been hearing alot in other articles is Kyle Davies and his “head” issues. That to me is a GIANT red flag for any athlete in any sport, especially for a starting pitcher who has to be able to forget about his last pitch and focus solely on the pitch at hand. I’m not saying I think Davies is going to turn into a Rick Ankiel or anything like that, but it may cause him to take more steps backwards than forwards. He may already be taking steps backwards, which is definately not good for a 22 year old trying to develop. Maybe next year, if you really look at it, Davies will be the odd man out and start the year in AAA. It may be the best thing for him in the long run, and I don’t think the Braves rotation is going to be too depleted next year to have Davies back in the minors.

Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, James, and Ramirez with CORMIER being the extra 6th starter at the major league level. Let Davies work on some stuff down where he can dominate and it may allow him to progress much more quickly since it is all a head issue with him.

By DonCoburleone

September 15, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

A couple of points in regards to the starting rotation. One thing DOB said in the article and I’ve been hearing alot in other articles is Kyle Davies and his “head” issues. That to me is a GIANT red flag for any athlete in any sport, especially for a starting pitcher who has to be able to forget about his last pitch and focus solely on the pitch at hand. I’m not saying I think Davies is going to turn into a Rick Ankiel or anything like that, but it may cause him to take more steps backwards than forwards. He may already be taking steps backwards, which is definately not good for a 22 year old trying to develop. Maybe next year, if you really look at it, Davies will be the odd man out and start the year in AAA. It may be the best thing for him in the long run, and I don’t think the Braves rotation is going to be too depleted next year to have Davies back in the minors.

Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, James, and Ramirez with CORMIER being the extra 6th starter at the major league level. Let Davies work on some stuff down where he can dominate and it may allow him to progress much more quickly since it is all a head issue with him.

By Ptown Bravo

September 15, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

It is, however, only slightly disappointing that after accepting full praise for the Braves’ pitching staff success during this remarkable run, Leo isn’t here to share some of the criticism for this years’ failures. Not only that, but he’s able to deflect the bulk of the criticism in Baltimore by hiding behind a 1st year manager and a young staff with no veteran presence.

Leo Mazzone is a proven winner, and I don’t want to discredit his time in Atlanta in any way; however, at the same time, I would highly discourage anyone from blaming the 2006 season on Roger McDowell just because he was here when the run ended.

By TennesseePaul

September 15, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe that all the woes lay at the feet of a missing Leo. It’s impossible. I don’t know how one could argue it? Leo was a minor league pitching coach in the Braves system for ever, then came up and coached those same guys some more. He also had 3 Hall Of Famers under his wing which he admits himself, didn’t require a lot of work. He is in Baltimore and his staff isn’t any better than the year before he showed up nor is it any better than the Braves this year. So if he is the majic man, then why doesn’t his majic work elsewhere? If it’s because he is handling a bunch of new pitchers in Baltimore, then he certainly wouldn’t have faired better in ATL. Smoltz is the only guy pitching this year that knew Leo’s method. Everyone else would have been new to it.

This season’s pitching woes rely on a many factors which can’t be entirely laid at Rogers feet. I was jumping on Roger at the beginning of the season, but after seeing the work he has done with Cormier, Villarreal, McBride, James, Yates, and so on I think he’s a keeper at least for a little while.

Mazzone’s presence maybe the biggest thing about him that is missing. Not that he loomed larger than life over the Braves. But having the same system in place for 15 years creates stability and he was part of that system. He had become an icon and now that is missing. But I think Roger will be just fine next season. I think the pitching next season will be much improved. Think about it… For starters, we aren’t going to be starting the season with Jorge Sosa, John Thomson, Chris Reitsma, or Mike Remlinger. Devine may or may not make the team next year, but he has shown significant improvement and that is a step up from the beginning of this season. Simple addition by subtraction is going to improve the Pitching. That alone should improve our chances.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

I don’t know about Davies’s “head issues,” but his K/BB and HR numbers look fine. I think he’s getting too much of the plate sometimes, but I think a lot of it is just batted balls finding a hole (i.e., bad luck). Given his performance throughout his pro career, I think Davies will be fine, barring serious injury.

Click here for an interesting article about how much control pitchers really have.

By 10-7-4

September 15, 2006 01:50 PM | Link to this

Greetings all:-C.Lady-probably not hiccups—more like gagging. Hope you and Mom are doing well. FLBRAVESGIRL-thanks, it’s good to be back.

By Braves20

September 15, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

Have it on good authority that one of the Braves major league scouts has been shadowing both Glavine and Maddox - now that would be a nice answer to DOB’s excellent suggestion that we get a veteran who could go to the post 30 times or so. Offensively, we don’t need to a thing. Re-sign Wickman, keep the better third of the pen and get a decent back-up catcher and we’re playing in October again.

By Bravo Nam

September 15, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this

Random thoughts:

1). Over the past month we’ve all quoted at some stage or another that one loss was pretty excruciating and probably singled the end of our wild card hopes. I think the day that completely demoralised the team was our most recent doubleheader against PI. Knowing that they needed to sweep the Phils to give themselves some realistic hope of getting the wildcard, you can imagine the dejection being up 5-0 and losing 6-5. As if that wasn’t bad enough, they then get done in a second game on the same day. It’s understandable how galling a loss like the 6-5 game was, but to lose two in a row in one day and basically see your season go in a day is completely deflating.

2). What is remarkable about this season is that despite losing our entire opening day bullpen to injury or promotion to the rotation, losing half our starters through injury, and having half our hitters out for significant periods of the year through injury, the Braves would’ve been nipping right at the heels of the Mets if they could’ve gotten two things right: have had Wickman as closer at the beginning of the season and instead of losing around 20 games by one run, half that total by actually winning 10 of those by one run. Despite bad luck and poor play, it must gall JS that if he had’ve been prepared to part with a few more dollars, and hadn’t misjudged the closer situation so badly, the Braves would be clear leaders in the wildcard.

3). Two names who’ve gone underneath the radar a bit in terms of next years bullpen- Devine (putting together some solid performance since returning to the BP) and wait for it…Kevin Barry (he was brilliant in the bullpen…got erratic and then was shelled as a starter…and since returning has been terrific…with a bit more work on him I think he will be a great addition to the BP next year).

4). There’s now three sure things in life: death, taxes and JS signing BW- in fact, it’s a surer thing than the first two- JS is not only shattered coz the Braves won’t win their 15th title, but he’s shattered coz he realises he’s been a big factor in preventing this from happening- the Braves love BW, not only because of his talent, but because he’s one of these high character guys the Braves covet, and he has provided remarkable leadership to the rest of the younger guys in the BP- JS will do anything to get this thing done, even allowing Wickman to call him his homeboy if necessary.

5). Schmidt would be a poor signing for the Braves- too oft injured- the Braves already have a truckful of guys like him (with lesser talent)- the Braves need a younger, dependable SP who won’t breakdown.

6). I don’t care which team you support- for those people who constantly obsess about the Braves lack of WS titles and disparage their 14 division titles- get your heads checked. And don’t go asking support for your whining arguments from the rest of us hacks on this blog- go and speak to one major leaguer, on any team other than the Braves, and he will tell you that it’s a mountain to climb winning one division title- if you can find one major leaguer who can honestly say that the Braves run of 14 division titles and only one WS is meaningless…I’ll eat my hat!

7). And finally, to all the chicken livered, ungrateful wretches on here who complain, criticise, whine and throw tantrums over the Braves lack of success this year, go and find another team. I find it despicable that when the going gets a little tough (and let’s face it…if you want to know what tough is…speak to Cubs fan, a TB fan, a Royals fan), you guys/gals turn on JS, BC, the Braves team and whoever else it is associated with the Braves. Grow up children. Not even us Braves fans can get our way all the time, every time. There’s been pathetic comments like, “if they do this, I’ll never follow them again”, “they’re gonna be losers for the next decade”, “they’re losers”. Actually, the only losers are you guys/gals. When the going gets tough, you will do anything to disassociate yourselves from the Braves- turn your back on them, pretend you always knew they’d have a lousy season, make conditional demands that if they don’t do exactly as you wish, you’ll never follow them again. I’ll try and see if I can help you get rid of that yellow line running down your backs.

I’m a Braves fan for life. I’m proud of them. They’re still playing hard. They’re not perfect, but what they’ve achieved and the way they’ve achieved it makes me proud. I don’t get if they have 20 losing seasons, I place no conditions on them in terms of my support. I’m grateful that for the passed 14 seasons they’ve given me a postseason to look forward to, no matter how disappointing most of them have been. I don’t know any of the Braves personally, but I follow them with loyalty and pride, and greatly respect what they’ve achieved.

So to those fans on this blog who are aptly the only true losers, take a hike and let the door give you a real spanking on your way out (coz it’s probably the only spanking you will ever get in your miserable lives). And to the Mets fans on this blog- if you can be winners with class, I’ll reluctantly accept your presence here. To the Mets fans on this blog who strut around like peacocks, like pretty boys and gals who need attention, and show absolutely no class in their achievements, see my advice above!

By TennesseePaul

September 15, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

Lew: I think Giles will be re-signed so to speak. They’ll pick up his arbitration. As to if he gets traded… That is going to depend entirely on the assessed needs of the club and what it will take to get them. If Giles is requested in return for what JS believe is needed, I think he’ll pull the trigger. If he can get away with another Max Ramirez trade, then he’ll go that route.

As to your points about the business as usual… I agree in the most part. But, this isn’t a usual situation for JS. Since he’s been here, the Braves have won. So, having a losing season, he could take steps we haven’t seen before. I think it will be a busy offseason though. I could see one or two key moves being made. And I think they will improve the club. I do not believe JS is going to go into this offseason with the perspective of dumping salary and rebuilding from scratch. There is no need for that and I think he really wants to win next year.

By DonCoburleone

September 15, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

A couple of points in regards to the starting rotation. One thing DOB said in the article and I’ve been hearing alot in other articles is Kyle Davies and his “head” issues. That to me is a GIANT red flag for any athlete in any sport, especially for a starting pitcher who has to be able to forget about his last pitch and focus solely on the pitch at hand. I’m not saying I think Davies is going to turn into a Rick Ankiel or anything like that, but it may cause him to take more steps backwards than forwards. He may already be taking steps backwards, which is definately not good for a 22 year old trying to develop. Maybe next year, if you really look at it, Davies will be the odd man out and start the year in AAA. It may be the best thing for him in the long run, and I don’t think the Braves rotation is going to be too depleted next year to have Davies back in the minors.

Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, James, and Ramirez with CORMIER being the extra 6th starter at the major league level. Let Davies work on some stuff down where he can dominate and it may allow him to progress much more quickly since it is all a head issue with him.

By Ptown Bravo

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

James McMurtry & The Heartless Bastards, huh? DOB, how many times in one week can my life be changed by great music? You haven’t led me astray yet, so I’ll add it to my collection. Thanks for the heads-up.

By Shaun

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

DonCoburleone,

I don’t know about Davies’s “head issues,” but his K/BB and HR numbers look fine. I think he’s getting too much of the plate sometimes, but a lot of it is just batted balls finding a hole (i.e., bad luck). Given his performance throughout his pro career, I think Davies will be fine, barring serious injury.

Click here for an interesting article about how much control pitchers really have.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 02:22 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, Lew, etc.,

Like I’ve said, I think if Schuerholz can get five or six really good young players for AJones and Giles, he should pull the trigger on a trade. I would sacrifice a couple of seasons without a division title for a chance at some good young players around the ages of James, Davies, Francouer and McCann. If Schuerholz can pull of a trade like that, in five years the Braves could be in the position the Twins are in now.

By David O'Brien

September 15, 2006 02:23 PM | Link to this

PTown, you absolutely will not be disappointed. Get the live album. It’s only one he’s done with them as his band. Live in Aught Three. Awesome. Wait till you hear the song about the family reunion with the methamphetamine-producing uncle…. “We’re gonna have us a time,” is all I can say.

By Shaun

September 15, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

Remember Davies is still four or five years from his prime. Don’t be so quick to judge.

By Ptown Bravo

September 15, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

….the blog is bogged.

(Frankly, I blame Leo for that.)

By Head Coach

September 15, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

Agreed , Andruw is gone. Whether this offseason(unlikely) or if the Braves fall of the wagon next season(again , unlikely). He will want a 15 milllion a season 4 to 5 year contract which you guys are correct in already saying he is not in the Braves budget. Andruw is a 10 & 5 player and he has veto power over any proposed trade. TennesseePaul , Schuerholz has a philosophy of trading prospect for veteran and its had mixed results at best(reguler season FANTASTIC) VS (postseason FAILURE) but again its not the fault of Schuerholz or Cox. Blame the players for choking in the postseason , 91 and 96 should have resulted in two more championships. The Justice trade was a total bust. Did you know David Justic was a walking good luck charm ? from 1991 through 2002(12 seasons) all four teams he played with made the playoffs and he won a second ring with the Yankees in 2001. I think he got the last laugh on Schuerholz. but , he let Halle Berry get away , what a lunkhead.

By David O'Brien

September 15, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

Oh, and I just POSTED A NEW BLOG.

Move over skinny dogs….

By geauxbraves2000

September 15, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

The Braves pretty much have already rebuilt, it was last year, and it was disguised as an NL East Championship. Yes, they didn’t the division this year, are probably not going to win the WC, but look at next year’s team, with 2 to 3 or more year’s of ML experience, Francouer, McCann, Langerhans, Diaz, LaRoche, and the “p” players, Orr (he’s shown flashes), with youngsters Prado & B. Pena. With Chipper (when he’s not hurt) Edgar, Giles & Andruw, I don’t know about the rest of you all, but this team looks awesome to me.

But, it won’t mean a thing with a decent pitching staff. Chuck James is showing flashes of turning into a top notch starter, Smoltz is Smoltz, I think he’s hurt and/or just wearing down trying to carry the staff. Hudson is unreliable, Ramirez is hurt all the time, Hampton may or may not be okay, I’ll lean towards “may”, Comier/Villareal should be okay for #5. Too many youngsters in the bullpen, need some veteran presence, and for goodness sake, sign Wickman.

Geaux Braves!!

By DonCoburleone

September 15, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

Sorry about all the posts guys, don’t know what happened there…

Okay okay now, I keep hearing the same argument (except for DOB) about Leo Mazzone and how he hasn’t done anything with the Baltimore staff. That point is not relevant IMO. If you look at ALL the teams in the AL East they ALL have horrible ERA’s as a team. The Yankees have the best collective ERA at 4.38, and that is only good for 11th in the Majors! Here are what the other teams in the AL East have done pitching-wise this year: Boston (4.82era; 26th in MLB) Toronto (4.47era; 14th in MLB) Tampa Bay (4.99era; 27th in MLB) and Baltimore sits at 5.29era; 29th in MLB). The entire division has bad pitching stats cuz every team is chalk full of hitters! And the other argument that Baltimore has “young, live arms” is such BS! You know what a “live arm” translates into? HE SUCKS!!! Remember how Jorge Sosa’s got a “live arm” too? And boy he turned out great didn’t he?

The only argument on this I consider valid is DOB’s cuz he has inside information and I obviously can’t argue with that…

By Canadian Brave

September 15, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

With all this talk about the lack of starting pitching! What about the lack of team speed. Seems to me that we need the guy who can walk and be a threat to make it to third base without sacrificing an out. putting pressure on the other team is an integral part of the game. Where’s an Otis Nixon clone when you need one.

By Canadian Brave

September 15, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

One thing we did see from the braves young pitchers was flashes of brilliance. inconsistency is the standard for young underconfident arms. Give Davies and some of the guys in the pen a chance to believe they belong and this staff looks pretty good to me.

By Ken

September 16, 2006 09:12 AM | Link to this

I agree with Tomahawkin, it was much more cool when TBS broadcast almost all the Braves games, even when they sucked. It was good for out-of-town Braves fans like me. Anyone remember when they used to re-run the games late at night?

By Thomas

September 16, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this

Have anyone notice all the pitchers flirting or manking no hitter since August.

By Jean D'Eau

September 16, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for shedding some light on why Leo Mazzone was shown the door after last season; I didn’t realize he’d developed a bad relationship with the organization, but credit both he and them with keeping that on the down-low. One thing I wish Roger would do next year is institute an early camp like Camp Leo—clearly whatever next year’s rotation and bullpen look like, they could use the head start.

It seems to me that part of the Braves’ pitching woes have been partially, if unwittingly, of their own making, as we can remember back to when many other teams began to ape the philosophy of strong pitching and defense. Seems like the competition to scout, sign, and develop good, young pitchers has grown quite a bit more intense over the years, and thus the asking price of these pitchers once they hit free agency has skyrocketed (I mean, is AJ Burnett ever going to be worth even half of what the Jays are paying him?).

I read somewhere else today that the Mets seem certain to pick up Glavine’s $12 million option next year, so if he is coming back, it probably wouldn’t be ‘til ‘08 (if they manage to sign Zito, maybe they would let him walk, but with the uncertainty of Pedro, and their greater payroll, he could be a nice piece of insurance).

As far as Davies goes, if the Braves really do have so much confidence in him, then why not sign him to a major league contract next year, have him in spring training, but then send him to AAA for awhile as a sort of extended spring training? I understand he’s got nothing left to prove in the minors, and that his dominance against minor-league competition hasn’t translated into anything even remotely close to major-league success, but it’s time for the organization to admit they brought him up too quickly (remember that no one ever expected Glavine, Smoltz, or Avery to be the rotation’s cornerstone in their earliest years). If nothing else, he should be no more than the 5th starter until he earns his way up higher.

Regarding the rest of the team, the offense has proven itself to be just fine, without the traditional speedy, slap-hitting leadoff hitter. If Giles really is moved in the offseason, I don’t have any guesses as to who would lead off, but please Bobby and John, don’t let it be Willy Aybar as you said he might be when the Betemit trade went down—hopefully that was just what it appeared to be, window-dressing for what has proven to be a bad trade (Betemit may never have been an effective everyday player for the Braves, but he was outstanding off the bench, and the ideal piece to spell Chipper, as he is certain to need in his declining years).
Clearly, Diaz is not an everyday LF, he just doesn’t have the power and/or leadoff ability that position demands, unless you do bat him leadoff and are happy with tons of singles and no stolen bases. I still think Langerhans should be given a shot at that job; like Davies, he may have benefited from some extra minor-league seasoning—maybe some winter ball is in order for him? I haven’t heard or read much about what the plans are for Thorman, so maybe he’ll be given the chance to win/lose that job; the Braves were definitely enamored of his power potential at one point, and say what you will about the three-run homer versus manufacturing runs, we are in an era where having a guy with 40-HR potential in the middle of the lineup will at least reap peripheral dividends (a la Andruw’s 51 HRs that didn’t really translate into his own clutch performance last year; it still helps the guys batting around him to see better pitches as the opposing pitcher doesn’t want any bases occupied with him coming up).

Well, looks like I’ve written more than enough, but I live in the Pacific Northwest, too far away from anyone who cares about the Braves, so for anyone who read this far, thanks for lending me your cyber-ears for a bit.

By David

September 19, 2006 02:45 PM | Link to this

The Braves have been waiting for Kyle Davies to come to life and last night was just an indication of what has been missing from the Braves starting rotation this year. WOW!!—What a spectacular outing by Kyle! If Kyle had come back a month or two ago, the Braves would be in the thick of the wild card race instead of just hanging on by a thread. I’m still proud of the Braves for not throwing in the towel on the wild-card race. THE BRAVES ARE STILL ALIVE! I DON’T WANT TO JINX THEM, BUT IF THE BRAVES CAN WIN THE REMAINDER OF THEIR GAMES AND JUST WATCH THE SCOREBOARD TO SEE HOW FAR THEY CAN ADVANCE; TRUST ME—-STRANGER THINGS HAVE HAPPENED BEFORE! I really don’t think the Braves will make the post-season, but if they manage to get in the playoffs as a wild-card recipient, I think that the Braves will win the World Series. That would be some consolation prize for finishing so far behind the Mets! WORLD SERIES CHAMPS!!! Dreams do come true as we all watch the magic happen again!