Braves

By Chris McAndrew

October 30, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

Jarrod Saltalamacchia will probably switch to first base, come to the Braves and catch fire then get traded as soon as he demands to be paid what he wants and will command for his work. With the Braves refusing to up the payroll they won’t be a playoff team for many years. Andruw probably going soon and others will I’m sure follow.

By mike

October 30, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

With an 80M payroll our future is dependant on developing and playing young players and not giving veterans 20M a year contracts. In other words, keep and play the youngsters and let the Jones’ (plural) go.

By me

October 30, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

Move Jarrod to left field. I hear he has quite the arm. Dale Murphy made the transition as well all Kelly Johnson and I am sure a bunch others recently.

By glorydays

October 30, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

There is not doubt the Braves can win with an 80M payroll, what they can not do is win year after year anymore and really that is not to be expected of anyone anymore, including the Yankees. I think the Braves fans showed that winning with essentially the same core gets boring. The Braves are the first team in history to prove that.

By KC

October 30, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

“If the Mets sign Soriano and either Zito or Schmidt the Mets will probably win the division again. The braves season depends on Hudson, Hampton and an improved bullpen. I think even if all those parts fall into place you’d be playing for a wild card.”

METS 2007

I agree with you… the Braves season will depend on Hudson and Hampton. That’s why I feel good about it.

MIKE HAMPTON: Doctors insist that it takes a full 18 months (a mark Hampton will reach in March) to FULLY recover from Tommy John surgery. Most players return after only 12 months, and struggle in their first 3-6 months back as a result. There is now a 90% success rate for pitchers returning from Tommy John surgery. “Success” according to Dr. James Andrews, is defined as a pitcher throwing at 100% as of the 18 month (post-surgery) mark. Given the facts, it’s hard to call Hampton a “question mark”.

TIM HUDSON: Contrary to popular belief, Hudson just suffered the first bad season of his career (the 3.53 and 3.52 ERA he post in ‘04/’05 ranked him in the top 15% of MLB starters both seasons). I went back and looked at the career numbers of every pitcher to finish top-10 in MLB in ERA over the last 20 years, and here’s what I found… There were numerous instances of something very similar to the odd season Hudson just turned in. Pitchers like Roger Clemens, John Smoltz, and others had bad seasons in the middle of their prime for no apparent reason. They just had a year where they were “out of sync” as Hudson was this year. In every single instance that I found, they bounced back with a very strong season the following year.

Hudson’s still fairly young, and hasn’t lost any of his stuff or velocity. I agree with you that Huddy’s a question mark… but I think not a very big one. Odds are he bounces right back.

THE BULLPEN is already improved. First of all, if the Braves had signed Wickman last winter (as they almost did), they would have finished with over 90 wins this season. It should also be noted that the Braves have some good young arms in the bullpen. The problem was that these kids were completely green and just weren’t ready to be the point-men in a pennant race. However, guys like Macay McBride (1.98 ERA from July 16th on), and Tyler Yates (2.70 ERA as Braves setup man in September) have got that experience now. Unfortunately, that experience came at the cost of the 2006 season as their early rookie struggles hurt the team’s chances… but the ’06 loss is their ’07 gain. Chad Paronto finished the year with a solid 3.18 ERA. So there’s 4 key pieces already in place. But you can also bet your life on JS adding another core piece or two to this bullpen. This bullpen will be solid next year. Count on it.

“I think even if all those parts fall into place you’d be playing for a wild card”

Are you really saying this with a straight face??? Do really think that if Hudson and Hampton are both pitching as they are capable, along with Smoltz, James, & Ramirez, a solid bullpen, and an offense that was already the best in the NL this season… the Braves will only be playing for a Wild Card??? Boy… check your glasses. You might need a new prescription!

By Chris McAndrew

October 30, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

“what they can not do is win year after year anymore and really that is not to be expected of anyone anymore, including the Yankees.” Are you kidding me? The Yankees win at least their division each and every year and that will continue as long as they continue to spend money. The Braves have very little chance of ever winning their division again as long as the Mets are spending well over 100 million a year while the Braves continue to hang out at 80 million as they have for quite a while now. The Braves have to start spending more again (as they did in the 90s with a top payroll close to the Yankees throughout the decade) in order to win more division titles.

By Hairy Bawls

October 30, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

The Braves will give the young tallet away just like they did when they gave away Adam Waynewright. Adam looked very well closing out the world series while the Braves couldn’t save a game if they only had to get 1 out in the 9th inning. Keep up the lousy work Braves front office management.

By ncscoots

October 30, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

I doubt the Braves have any intention of packaging Escobar, unless they are convinced he’ll never be able to play 2B or 3B at anytime in the future. Andrus is a horse, yes, but he’s a long way from being ready with no guarantee that he ever will be (pick any former prosepect gone bust for a cautionary tale). Escobar probably isn’t ready yet, either, and it’s too soon to designate either he or Andrus as an heir-apparent. Better to keep both until one shakes the other out, or better yet, move one to another position and see what happens. But as far as Salty goes? Sure, package the dude, but I doubt many other GMs are salivating over the guy. While catching prospects are valuable as trade pieces, Salty is still learning behind the plate and that makes him less attractive.

By KC

October 30, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

Chris McAndrew:

Repectfully… You haven’t been paying very close attention. Had the Braves started the year with Bob Wickman in the bullpen, they would have been in the NL East race most of the year and would have won the Wild Card. And that’s with half their friggin pitching staff (Mike Hampton, Horacio Ramirez, Kyle Davies, John Thompson, Blaine Boyer, John Foster) on the DL all or most of the year, and Tim Hudson turning in a career worst year. The Mets will have to re-sign Glavine, and then make at least two significant starting pitching acquisitions just to remain on par with the team Atlanta will field next season.

The Braves are able to compete right now at 80 million (vs. other 100 mill-plus teams), because there are so many bargains on this team right now. Francoeur, McCann, Chuck James, and Matt Diaz all make rookie money right now. LaRoche is eligible for arbitration and will get a healthy raise, but will still be an incredible huge bargain for a 30-HR, 90-100 RBI hitter. Boston is paying about half of Renteria’s salary, making him yet another bargain. A number of the good young arms in the bullpen… guys like McBride, Yates, Boyer, and Paronto all still make rookie money. Wickman was nearly perfect in Atlanta this year. What’s the going rate for a top-tier closer? It’s a helluva lot more than 6 million per season.

Because the Braves have so many high value-low cost pieces… they will be able to compete with teams like the Mets for at least another 2-3 years (until all the young guys start becoming arbitration/free agency eligible).

By KC

October 30, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

The Braves aren’t in any hurry to give away young talent. In a few years, the Braves youngsters are going to start becoming arbitration and free agency eligible. When that happens, they’re going to have to pony up to keep guys like LaRoche, McCann, Francoeur, James, and others. They’ll need low-cost young talent to fill out the rest of the roster.

By journalist jimmy smith

October 30, 2006 05:21 PM | Link to this

journalist guy curtright has saved the day for the blog. thankyoujournalist. the braves pay declining stars the big money. the young players who will become stars are sacrificed to obtain the declining stars. call it a cycle. this journalist thinks the braves should load up with pitching however they can and let the young players fight for positions. now, reese witherspoon … soon to be available. once played june carter cash - may be the right girl for dob. matchmaker jimmy smith can make the initial contact for dob. just give matchmaker the word. remember that baby seal is an effective babe magnet and can give dob seal of approval for reese. always enjoyed those peanut butter cups.

now, this journalist may soon go a huntin’ with uh, chipper jones. who from the blog will join this journalist at the double dime ranch? go to http://doubledimeranch.com/ for more information.

now, chipper is known to have high cholesterol and bad toes. together, these are most unhealthy. combine them with a huntin’ in cowboy boots and you have a superstar that may have sore foots in the spring.

By scott

October 30, 2006 05:22 PM | Link to this

Good points made earlier about managing an $80 million payroll and still trying to win. It CAN be done, as both teams in the World Series proved.

Andruw Jones MUST be traded in the off-season. A hard reality of big time sports is not what your past performance has been, it’s what you can give me now and in the future. AJ’s been the best CF’er in BB, with very consistent #’s and plays every day. But is there anyone out there who thinks he will get BETTER, and therefore deserve MORE money (like 25% of our payroll)?? NO way - at best he’ll maintain for a couple more yrs and then decline - personally I think with the added weight, etc., he’s headed for an injury. We’ve already seen what tieing up big chunks of payroll to a frequently-injured player can do (think Chipper and Hampton). This is not a scenario which screams for paying a guy $20 million yearly!! You have to trade him to get perceived value for him now. If you keep him thru next year, you lose him for a couple of draft picks only - a wasted oppportunity to get better now.

Regarding Escobar and Saltalamacchia, who knows what the future holds. I don’t think either one brings GREAT trade value right now - I’d rather see how they develop (that trade value will also improve).

I really don’t think the Braves pitching is the primary problem going into 2007. Starters: Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, Ramirez, James, Davies (pretty strong); Relief: MacBride, Yates, Paronto, Villareal, Cormier ALL got great experience and improved as the season went along, plus you got Wickman in the closing role. BTW, everyone is forgetting Danys Baez - a damn good set-up guy - only had one bad outing and that’s as he was having an appendicitis attack. I do think we need another good lefty in the pen.

The main focus right now HAS to be to get a strong lead-off hitter. My God, Renteria bats over .300 most of the year and only has 70 or so RBI!!?? Nobody’s on base.

By 2007 Mets

October 30, 2006 06:06 PM | Link to this

KC, Lets look at alternative possibilities. What if Hudson does in 2007 what he did in 2006? What if Hampton is .500 or below in 2007? Ramirez is injury prone and isn’t reliable. These are all possibilities as well. You talk about a “solid ” bullpen as if it was good in 2006…..it wasn’t. It remains to be seen if in 2007 it will be superior to the Mets. The Mets got all the raves for their offense but people don’t realize they have 47 games won by one run. That’s of course due to their bullpen.

By oh please

October 30, 2006 06:07 PM | Link to this

Stop the payroll crying. I’m tired of listening to a bunch of spineless, gm wanna be’s b*** and moan about the payroll. Root for the Yankees if payroll is the most important factor in supporting a team. It’s been this way long enough for the issue to be settled. It’s not going to change anytime soon, get over it. Get a clue, get a job, or a hobby to take your mind off it. You sound like the equivalent to a 4 year old child pitching a tantrum because he/she didn’t get his/her way.

By The Grinch

October 30, 2006 06:21 PM | Link to this

Journalist Jimmy, I agree. Reese does have lovely cups.

Guy, much obliged for the new blog; got tired of shaving in between posts. I’m in agreement with most here; if we have to get rid of Andruw we might as well go whole hog on the reconstruction and focus on younger, cheaper players. It’ll definitely help in the long run, and maybe one day we can get an owner who cares. Time to fire up the grill and get ready for MNF. I don’t care for the Patriots or the Vikings but any football’s better than none.

By trippy

October 30, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

who is going to be lead off next year? what about juan p from the cubs?

By KC

October 30, 2006 06:40 PM | Link to this

METS 2007:

I never described the Braves bullpen in 2006 as “solid”. I described the Braves 2007 bullpen as solid. Yates and McBride used this season to get acclimated to the big leagues and were both throwing the ball very impressively by season’s end. Paronto finished the year with a very good 3.18 ERA. Wickman will be there from day one next season, the JS is almost certain to add another key piece or two, either by trade or by free agency.

My assertion is not that last year’s bullpen was solid (although it was at the end of the season)… my assertion is that next year’s bullpen will be very strength for the Braves.

As for the possibilities you described… sure anything’s possible. Maybe Hudson will suck again. Maybe Hampton’s arm will be just fine, but he goes out and tears a hamstring 3 weeks into the season. Those things can certainly happen, but I don’t believe they’re likely.

Tim Hudson is the guy most people seem to be divided on. For reasons I’ve already explained, I think he’ll have a strong season next year. To be more specific… I’ll lay 3-1 odds that Hudson will finish next season with 15 wins and an ERA well under 4.00.

As for Hampton, he’s somehow been hit with “injury prone” label, but last year was the first season in 9 years in which he failed to make at least 29 starts. Again, odds are slim of his having any lingering problems for the surgery after the 18 month mark.

Anything can happen. I just feel good about it because in both cases, the odds are in our favor.

By 2007 Mets

October 30, 2006 06:59 PM | Link to this

I respect your optimism KC. We’ll have to wait about 5 months to see how everything shakes out. Til then we’ll live off our if’s and maybe’s.

By stew

October 30, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

Anyone who wants to get rid of Andruw is totally nuts. Forget about his offensive production, Andruw makes us a strong defensive team. Don’t kid yourselves! Ya gotta spend if you want to win. Andruw’s worth every penny and he wants to stay. I’m sick of seeing all of our players exit because the owners are too cheap to pay them. How many players have we lost to free agency and how many free agents have we signed. It’s just not fair to be playing with half a loaf.

By journalist jimmy smith

October 30, 2006 08:04 PM | Link to this

grinch, nice wither spoons. now, who will go a huntin’ with this journalist at chipper’s double dime? only $15,000 to hunt with uh, chipper and once you get there you get to eat some venison stew. can also buy an autographed ball for $70 and save freight.

By The Grinch

October 30, 2006 08:21 PM | Link to this

Good god, does he really charge that much? $70 for an autographed ball is obscene enough. It’d almost be worth it (provided one could afford such a thing) to go…imagine how fun it would be to spend all day stalking a trophy buck, then watch Chipper draw down on it while you secretly light off a pack of black cats. Can you imagine the look on his face when they went off? He’d probably bust a blood vessel on his forehead.

By Stinky

October 30, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

METS 2007, whatever happened to NLCHAMPS? Any ideas why he slinked off into the ooze from whence he came? He, like you, seems to have an affinity for unhatched chickens.

And now the Mets are gonna get Sorianno, Zito, Schmidt, and Dontrelle. Who do you think you are, a Yankees Fan? The Mets have serious money tide up in Pedro that’ll hamstring the mets like Hampton’s done to the Braves. That anti-psychotic cocktail your doctor has you on needs to be tweaked.

By J-MAN

October 30, 2006 08:40 PM | Link to this

I got a trade propasal Giles and Salty for C.C. Sabatha and a prospect. Then trade Rameriz for some bullpen help perferibly lefty pitching

By 1 + 2 = 4

October 30, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

Stew, I don’t think most people want to get rid of AJ but the fact that he will cost the Braves a tremendous amount of the budget, he almost certainly must be dealt. I have always been a huge AJ fan, however, with Boras throwing out AJ’s salary demands, there is no way we can afford him. Maybe if we didn’t have Hampton and Hudson’s salaries we could shell out the money. But the truth is, you must get something for him because he is going to walk.

About Salty and Escobar, the only player I deem worthy of such a trade would be Carl Crawford (TB). Outside of this proven major leaguer, I would not dare trade these boys. And in reference to Ramirez and Hudson, trade Ramirez to an AL team that needs left handed pitching; strike while the coal is hot and throw Hudson (with his 2007 low salary) to the Yankees. Then trade AJ for starting young arms (Crawford can play CF - 305 BA - 16 3Bs - 20 2Bs - 18 HRs - 58 SBs).

By Stinky

October 30, 2006 08:49 PM | Link to this

jimmy, Reese, 30, is way too young for DOB, nearly 50. I was thinking maybe DOB could hook up with Grace Slick. Lots of history there and she’s 67 years young today.

By 2007 Mets

October 30, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this

I have no affinity for unhatched chickens. I don’t exactly know what moves the Mets will make. I just threw some ideas from my wish list. As for the “ooze”, you’ll have to ask the braves about that since it seemed they were sitting in it all season.

By Wayne

October 30, 2006 09:08 PM | Link to this

If we can’t sign AJ SOON, he must be dealt. He might play great for another 6-8 yrs, but will probably decline as he does not seem to be capable of controlling his diet/weight. Get a SP for him then package Salty/Ramirez/Giles for Crawford.

By Troy

October 30, 2006 09:18 PM | Link to this

Here are some of my ideas for the 07’ team:

1) SIGN (yes I said sign) Giles to contract maybe 3 yrs. $18MM. Giles is still on the better side of 30 and I think that reason he struggled in 06’ was because he was trying to do to much, he altered his approach at the plate trying to adjust to hitting leadoff, if he can just relax and slide back down to the 2 hole (which I’ll address in a minute) he’ll be just fine. Two other points about Giles, I don’t see anyone in the organization who is ready to be a starter at second anytime soon, I mean Prado is definitely not the answer and I see Aybar as a good Utility guy. Also I think Giles has quietly become one of the better defensive 2B in the league.

2)TRADE Renteria to the Astros, you should be able to get Everett and Qualls (or maybe Lidge). First this does three great things for the Braves #1 it allows Giles who in my opinion is a better hitter than Renteria to go back to the 2 slot where he is much more comfortable, #2 Everett immediately improves the defense, while its true he can’t hit, he is highly regarded as the best defensive SS out there which will definitely help sinkerballers Hampton & Hudson, while Renteria wasn’t horrible Everett is a big upgrade and Houston fans would practically give him away and the Braves have a great offense so they can afford the drop off at SS # 3 Chad Qualls or Brad Lidge helps the bullpen enough said! On the Houston side I think they would love to have Edgar Renteria, he’s good for a .290/.360/.425 with 100 runs scored his power may even increase in that ballpark, and he is very familiar with those NL central opponents.

3) Get a LF who can hit leadoff, I am pretty flexible here I like the Ryan Freel for Horacio Ramirez idea, or even signing Dave Roberts, heck if we could get Carl Crawford that’d be great but I don’t see that happening. Freel probably makes the most sense if Cinncy gives him up

4) Another point that I wanted to make is that currently the Braves are committed to Renteria for 3 more years, I would rather see that commitment go to Giles who is a little younger and it doesn’t appear that anyone will be on his heels for his job like Elvis Andrus is at SS who I have heard nothing but great things about.

Lineup: 1) Ryan Freel LF 2) Marcus Giles 2B 3) Chipper Jones 3B 4) Andruw Jones CF 5) Brian McCann C 6) Jeff Francouer Rf 7) Adam LaRoche 1B 8) Adam Everett SS

Let me know what ya’ll think

By Stinky

October 30, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this

207mets, the Braves were mired down in red clay. The ooze that you’re fromis is found only in nuclear waste disposal facilities, New Jersey septic tanks, and Shea Stadium.

By The Grinch

October 30, 2006 09:40 PM | Link to this

Troy, that’s a fairly sound (and refreshing) viewpoint, but that’d be overpaying Giles by about 3-4 mill. I agree though; he’s solid offensively and defensively, and as I said all last season the spot he was hitting in was his entire problem. It doesn’t make any kind of sense, but it was true nonetheless. Every single time he got put back in #2 (even for a game or two) he caught fire. That’s just his comfort zone. I think he’s a better overall player than Renteria and has more years left. Only question I have involves his durability. He plays so gung-ho he’s almost always hurt to some degree.

By Troy

October 30, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this

Does anyone think it might be a good idea to make a strong push towards getting Carl Crawford, I don’t know his contract status but if we were able to have him under contract for a few years it would probably help ease the blow of losing Andruw.

My take on the Andruw situation, I think everyone involved (Front Office, Bobby, Andruw, and fans) excluding Scott Boras wants Andruw to stay in ATL, but it just won’t likely happen. Boras, as much as I can’t stand him does his job well, he is paid to get his clients as much money as possible and there will be plenty of teams who will pay $20 million/year for a gold glove CF who drives in 115+ runs. Scott will price the Braves out of the equation, its a sad story.

By mike

October 30, 2006 10:32 PM | Link to this

everyone wants to trade andruw but he is a 10/5 man now…and can veto any trade and said he will do so this year

By Chris McAndrew

October 30, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this

Troy Scott is not pricing the Braves out…the Braves are pricing themselves out. Attendence is up, but the Braves aren’t willing to spend more than the $80 million they’ve been stuck at for a long long time now. Costs go up every year in just about any business with raises and costs of good going up. But somehow the Braves have DECREASED THEIR PAYROLL from what it was about a decade ago until now. That’s no formula for success. Think what J.S. could do with this team if the payroll would have been increasing just a few million each year for the past several years.

By Chris McAndrew

October 30, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

One other thing…do you guys not remember when the Braves did have a payroll similar to the Yankees and other top-spending teams back in the 90s?? The Braves were in the World Series in 1991, 1992, 1995 (world champs), 1996 and 1999. That’s FIVE World Series appearances for the Braves in the 90s. How many times since then have they been back to the World Series (and since around the time payroll began to drop off) oh yeah…ZERO.

By TheNorthernMuleDeer

October 30, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

I have never seen anyone so enamored with someone as jimmy smith is with DOB and claim not to be gay! Who is this jimmy smith, and who is this Stinky? Seems they’re in competition to see which one is the biggest imbecile. We already know that DOB is the biggest prik!

By gotigers72

October 31, 2006 12:10 AM | Link to this

IMO, the Braves should have learned their lesson about trading top prospects by watching Adam Wainwright dominate in the playoffs. Does he have some good stuff or what? If they are going to trade Saltalamacchia, they better be overwhelmed by a trade, and be sure that the guy they trade for is gonna stay more than one year like Mr. Drew did.

JS has definitely taken teams in trades, but he GOT taken in the Wainwright/Marquis/King for Drew deal. If even one of those we traded for Drew worked out, it was a good deal for the Cardinals because we only had Drew for a year. I don’t think LaRussa liked Drew’s approach to the game anyhow. Tons of talent, but no passion for the game. At least that is what I read somewhere.

By Calvin

October 31, 2006 01:44 AM | Link to this

I don’t see the Mets being as good as they were this year. Why?

1. Just about everyone in their lineup had career years. You can’t expect that to happen in back to back years.

2. Their rotation will be extremely shaky unless they go out and sign Zito and/or Schimdt. I’m not sure they can do that tho.

3. Tom Glavine is pushing 41. Although he pitched great in the playoffs and the better part of 06, you can’t expect him to be the anchor of your rotation. Maybe a nice 2 or 3 starter.

4. The Braves will be improved because they will have a better bullpen and better starting pitching. People forget that the Bravos had the 2nd best offense in the NL and that is without a true leadoff guy. If they fill that need and/or the LF position(I am not totally sold that Diaz is the best person for that job), then they will score a ton of runs again in 07. Add that with a healthy Chipper Jones, Andruw being Andruw, a consistent LaRoche, McCann having another good year, Frenchy becoming more patient and selective, and Renteria doing what he does, there is no doubt in my mind that they can score 1000 runs or more in 07.

By The Grinch

October 31, 2006 02:08 AM | Link to this

Interesting. In that latest violent crime report that has Atlanta ranked No. 17, St. Louis is No. 1 and Detroit is No. 2. Perhaps if we get more violent as a city we’ll have a better chance at the WS. Night, all.

By METSMAN

October 31, 2006 02:57 AM | Link to this

Yo homies ! your braves stunk and they will stink again , my Metro boys are goona kick yo behinds , holla !! you might as well trade all them overpriced aging veterans and rebuild cause you aint got a snowballs chance in hell of competing wit my BOYS !!

By Stinky

October 31, 2006 03:07 AM | Link to this

METSBOY, my Metro boys are goonas. Yes they are

By Andy

October 31, 2006 04:10 AM | Link to this

Troy—Giles would likly not accept 3 years 18 million—renteria is the perfect number 2 hitter in the game—we have plenty of options at 2nd—not really at short. So, my thoughts are no if the braves are going to spend 18 million on a player—I say renteria will be better than giles—Giles gets injured alot with his playing style. I am a big giles fan—but I think if the braves are going to sign a “big” money player—either pitching or Andruw period. Diaz I think will be great—but I really think we’ll have Juan Pierre—I don’t want that-but it seems like the way. I am not sure but I think Jason Schmit might do a deal like hudson—with alot of the money at the end—-Smotlz and Jason will pitch 200 plus innings—ease the load on the pen—Hampton will be good then Hudson bounces back and James keeps going up. I like dreaming. You may be right about Giles—but with all of this infield talent—it seems they have to let him go and get a reliever or something.

How about a trade to NY: Giles, davies and Andruw(he agrees because he sign a 200 dollar contract extention or something crazy) for A-rod and Gary S.—the yankees agree to pay half of whats left on A-rod’s contract-meaning the braves play him 6 to 7 million a year(well worth it) AND half of the Shefiled—meaning 6.5 million. A-rod plays left—Francour in center—Gary in right—Chipper, rent, escobar(whoever) and Laroache, and McCann. Pretty darn good line up. The yankees don’t want to get in a bidding war for Jones—they need a second baseman like giles—hitting 9th(amazing)—they need the young pitching in Davies. The Yankees could eat 24-30 million of A-rod contract and not blink—they have paid palvono and wright so far like 30 million and have gotten nothing for it(and have 30 more to go)—drop 30 to get Andruw in his prime for 7-8 years-yeah they could do that. It would save the braves payroll this year—sheff and a-rod would be around 13 million and thats as much as the braves were paying for Andruw. Like in the renteria deal and the hampton deal some one else would be paying for half the salery—in this case with a-rod two thirds—then that would free up the possibilty of sign a back ended deal for a pitcher like Jason Schmit. I know the odds of me winning the 750 million lottery and ANY of this taking place are about the same. But it is early in the morning..at least this is not another post from a heart broken mets as#####—I say as###### because if you come on a braves board to talk smack—I hope horrible things for your family—if they can find them in Jersey City.

By Thomas

October 31, 2006 07:30 AM | Link to this

KC, your finally agreeing on what i said in another block.

If the Mets sign Zito and also add Soriano, the braves have to tune it up.

• Braves Trade.. Jarod Saltamachia, Scott Thorman, Yunel Escobar, Horacio Ramirez, and Marcus Giles for Carl Crawford, Scott Kazmir, and 2 prospects.
• Resign Darryl Ward, and that is it.
• Sign from free agency Mark Derrosa, to play second.

• Walaa

• LF Carl Crawford

• SS Edgar Renteria
• 3B Chipper Jones
• CF Andruw Jones
• C Brian McCann
• RF Jeff Franceour
• 1B Adam Laroche
• 2B Mark Derrosa
• P Pitcher

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 07:39 AM | Link to this

Braves Trade.. Jarod Saltamachia, Scott Thorman, Yunel Escobar, Horacio Ramirez, and Marcus Giles for Carl Crawford, Scott Kazmir, and 2 prospects.

No way the Rays give up Kazmir unless they get another young pitcher more talented…not going to happen.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 07:51 AM | Link to this

I definetly don’t think the Braves should move Saltalamacchia right now unless someone blows them away with a trade offer (probably not going to happen).

As far as comparing a possible Salty trade to the Wainwright trade, it’s not even close to the same thing. Pitching prospects almost always flame out or get injured. Hitting prospects almost always make at least something of themselves. Salty’s even more valuable because he’s a catcher. Trading Salty in a similar deal would be a horrible mistake.

By BravesFaninRockies

October 31, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this

Since DOB’s taking his postseason sabbatical, we may not get an answer from Guy. Here’s a go, anyway:

What are the chances that Kelly Johnson could be part of the mix as a leadoff/LF in 2007? You probably want a more reliable Plan A, but the guy has a sweet swing and he can really get on base. Plus, he gets the ML minimum or not much more. As Option 2, there’s Dave Roberts or Scott Podsednik (who could be had for cheap from the ChiSox).

Still need to trade Andruw, and I would like to see a sign-and-trade with the Cards for Edmonds considered.

By Stinky

October 31, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

I can’ place TheNorthernMuleDeer. It sounds strangely familiar.

Wikipedia: The Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) is a deer whose habitat is in the western half of North America. It gets its name from its large mule-like ears.

I wonder who this “NMD” could be? He sounds rather juvenile. I’ll label him as: Harmless.

By Troy

October 31, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

Andy, First of all why would think that the yankees would trade A-Rod and Sheff for Andruw, Giles, and Davies.

The Yanks have a loaded outfield already, they signed Damon to that fat contract just last offseason, they have matsui, and they have abreu for one more season, If they really do want AJ they won’t trade Rodriguez to get him they will simply wait until he is a free agent and out bid everyone else for him that is if they want him.

Another thing in case you don’t actually follow baseball the yankees already have a fantastic hitting 2B named ROBINSON CANO and he is making the league minimum, so stop assuming that Brian Cashmann is an idoit he Will not make a trade like that!

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 08:55 AM | Link to this

What are the chances that Kelly Johnson could be part of the mix as a leadoff/LF in 2007? You probably want a more reliable Plan A, but the guy has a sweet swing and he can really get on base. Plus, he gets the ML minimum or not much more. As Option 2, there’s Dave Roberts or Scott Podsednik (who could be had for cheap from the ChiSox).

What’s wrong with Matt Diaz? Of course not as a leadoff hitter but as the primary leftfielder. Renteria or Giles could hit leadoff (unless Giles is traded). I wouldn’t pay the over $2 million it would take to get Podsednik or Roberts if I already had a suitable leftfielder in Diaz. The Braves offense was second in the league in runs, and no one should decline significantly. I don’t think it’s necessary to overspend on hitters.

Still need to trade Andruw, and I would like to see a sign-and-trade with the Cards for Edmonds considered.

I don’t think you can do sign-and-trades in baseball. I think you have to wait until after a certain date before trading someone you sign in the offseason for some reason. But, I hope the Braves wouldn’t trade Andruw for Jim Edmonds. If they trade AJ, I hope it’s for several quality young players.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this

Andy and Troy,

Also, why would the Braves want to trade Davies when one of the guys they’d be getting would be ready to retire by the time Davies peaks and the other doesn’t have a position with the Braves. (ARod is not a leftfielder. His skills would be wasted there.)

By Troy

October 31, 2006 09:22 AM | Link to this

I never said I would trade davies, nor did I say i want A-Rod

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 09:39 AM | Link to this

Sorry, Troy.

Andy,

Also, why would the Braves want to trade Davies when one of the guys they’d be getting would be ready to retire by the time Davies peaks and the other doesn’t have a position with the Braves. (ARod is not a leftfielder. His skills would be wasted there.)

By Steve

October 31, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

I think the role of the leadoff hitter is overrated anyway, but the only guys out there I’d be willing to pay good money to do it would be Crawford or Soriano, and Soriano isn’t coming here. I think they should give Prado and Aybar a chance at leadoff (Aybar had great walk totals in the minors) if they can’t get Crawford, who could solve both leadoff and left field. If they couldn’t do that they should stick with Diaz, who can obviously hit better than Langerhans and try to work on the pitching.

By Lew

October 31, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Are we doomoed to the same irrational trade proposals for the rest of the season. When is everyone going to realize that the chances of trading Andruw are so slim as to be negligible? He has said repeatedly and his hard-a$$ agent has also said that he will not accept a trade. He does not want to play in a cold city, so Andy, he will not accept a trade to the Yankees. Not to mention that everything Troy said about your proposed Andruw trade is absolutely correct. They don’t need Andruw this year. They have too many outfielders as it is. Why would we want to trade him for Shef who will be gone in a year. We wouldn’t resign him. We also don’t need ARod as long as we have Renteria at short. He won’t replace Chipper, so short would be the only place to play ARod. As far as Schmidt-He hates pitching in Atlanta. He pitches lousy in Atlanta. Look at the game he pitched in Atl. this past season-he was shelled. Thomas-Would you please just give up on the Crawford and Kazmir thing? There is no way the Rays will give up either one. They want pitching. Kazmir is still cheap. Why would they trade him? Crawford is still realy cheap, too. They could not replace him for the same money and unless they are blown away with an offer of pitching (and we couldn’t make them happy in this regard) they will keep him. He is a major cog in their hoped for machine. You want to sign DeRosa as a free agent because he had one good year? Not at the poutrageous price that one year will command with all the rich loonies out there. Same with Matthews Jr. People will way overpay. So let’s repeat here. Andruw stays a Brave, at least for 07. Crawford will not play in Atlanta (and he does not bat leadoff). We really don’t want Jim Edmonds as a replacement. He is old, often injured and could not carry Andruw’s athletic socks. Schmidt is not the pitcher for the Braves. Look to trade Giles to the Indians or Padres. For pitching. Got that? We need pitching. If we get pitching, it doesn’t matter who the Mets sign.

By Troy

October 31, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this

Steve, I agree with you that the leadoff role i ssomewhat overrated, however with a team that strikes out as much the braves, a guy who gets on base at the top of the lineup changes the whole dynamic of the team. Its not hard to forget just how valuable Rafael Furcal was to this team, The braves should definitely address the leadoff spot, as well as the pitching situaiton

By KC

October 31, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

“KC, your finally agreeing on what i said in another block. If the Mets sign Zito and also add Soriano, the braves have to tune it up.”

Thomas:

Actually, I’m not sure adding Soriano and Zito would get it done for the Mets… mainly because Zito alone wouldn’t be enough to fix their starting pitching problems. Barry Zito has a 4.04 ERA over the last 3 seasons. Now, that’s well above average these days (especially in the American League), but is that the ERA of an “ace”?

The way I see it, the addition of Barry Zito would give them a rotation with two #2 starters at the top, followed by Maine, O.Perez, someone filling in for Pedro until he returns in the 2nd half of the season (and keep in mind that Pedro might not a 100% at ANY point next season). Let’s keep in mind that Glavine (assuming they re-sign him) will be 42 years old. Last year his ERA was just under 4.00. Can he match that? Better that? Even if they do add Zito, their work still isn’t done. They would need to add at least one more solid starter.

Right now, the Braves have a slight offensive edge on the Mets, and that sedge will be strengthened if the Braves can acquire a solid leadoff hitter. If the Mets were to add Soriano, that would obviously swing the balance offensively, but I think the Braves pitching staff would still look better if Zito is all they add to their pitching staff. My guess is the Mets are going to allocate about 25 million to bolster the rotation, so the only way the Mets will make a run at Soriano is if they are willing to bring their payroll up in the 135 million range, which they may very well be willing to.

In the end though, I’m sure they will add at least 2 starters to this rotation, and their starting pitching will be solid… not great, but solid. IF (and this is a huge if) Pedro can come back at 100% for the stretch run, the Mets could have an excellent rotation by season’s end (assuming they add Zito or Schmidt plus another solid starter).

Frankly, I don’t think the Braves have all that much work to do. I thing signing Steve Kline and Pierre or Dave Roberts would get it done. The Mets definitely have more work to do than the Braves. Unfortunately, they’ve got the resources to do it. We’ll just have to wait and see who they add.

By Stinky

October 31, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Lew, good post. You’ve got more patience bothering to read all this conjecture than I do. I’ll drink a beer in your honor some time this week. Can’t wait till the stove gets hot and real rumors start percolating. But until then, I guess we’re stuck with the same ol’ …

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this

Tony and Steve,

Strikeouts are bad because they’re outs, but they aren’t any worse than other outs. The Braves only made outs in 66.3 percent of their plate appearances, good for 6th lowest in the National League. The Braves rarely had an offense that good when Furcal was hitting leadoff. Sure a leadoff hitter with speed and on-base skill is nice, but not necessary. That Braves should not overpay for a leadoff hitter, in terms of money or giving up quality young players. Pitching was the real problem.

By rammerjammer

October 31, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this

Due to previously stated economic issues, Giles and Ramirez have priced themselves out of Atlanta’s top-heavy budget, so they’re almost certainly gone. Don’t see any others being dealt.

All indications are that BC is very comfortable with Prado at 2B, and also no concerns, apparently, about LF and/or leadoff for the short term.

I would think JS will address adding another starter to replace Ramirez, and also adding OF help with the assumption that AJ won’t return after 2007. The OF help could be in the form of a minor leaguer, someone not needed for a couple of years (e.g., Cleveland’s Trevor Crowe).

By BravesFaninRockies

October 31, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

The problem with Diaz is that he might be the worst defensive outfielder since Lonnie Smith … or Chris Duncan. You can hide a butcher in the field for only so long. And IMO, the team needs somebody at the top of the lineup with a decent OBP; Diaz is as impatient as Frenchy, which is not good for a top-of-the-lineup guy.

Also, for whatever reason, Renteria has never hit well in the leadoff spot. He seems like an ideal #2 guy, so why mess up a good thing?

The reason for working out a deal for Edmonds is that no one else I see out there is available or affordable who could bring you a middle-of-the-order hitter and stellar defense in center field, at least for one more season. (And yes, I know, he’s about to be 37.)

By Troy

October 31, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this

While I agree with everyone that pitching was a HUGE problem for the team in 06’ it was mostly injury related

I think 07’ might work itself out

Starting Rotation: Smoltz- What can you say bad about this guy he’s a horse even at 39 years old, A TRUE ACE Hudson- He’s kind of a mystery, I mean he has a great track record but hasn’t done much in a Braves Uniform, Hope for the best Hampton- Everyone is down on him but who knows he might be effective James- This kid looks great Davies- Everybody loves this guy I’m not sure what to expect Ramirez- Quality pitcher who may bring something in a trade, if not traded then he provides good depth in a solid rotation

Bullpen Wickman- He’s not amazing by any means but he gets the job done and a HUGE upgrade from the Reitsma/Sosa debacle Yates- Bobby loves this guy and thats enough for me Boyer- This guy can pitch if he is healthy Devine- This guy can pitch if he can harness his talent McBride- He’ll only get better

I think that the pitching is a lot better off than most people think maybe add two solid veteran relievers, but who knows Schuerholz promised to be active this winter, so this should get exciting!

By journalist jimmy smith

October 31, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this

Roses is red,

Violets is blue,

DOB is a homo,

And jimmy smith too!

By nathan

October 31, 2006 11:30 AM | Link to this

Chris McAndrew Said:

The Braves have very little chance of ever winning their division again as long as the Mets are spending well over 100 million a year while the Braves continue to hang out at 80 million as they have for quite a while now.

You mean like how the Twins or Tigers had no shot against the Big Payroll White Sox? All that MONEY Boston spent really helped them didn’t it? When are you people going to learn that the dollars a team spend have NOTHING TO DO WITH HOW THAT TEAM DOES!!!!!!! Those players that make all that money still have to perform, don’t they? I mean open your frickin eyes and look at the stats. HOW IN THE HELL did Chuck James outplay Tim Hudson? He makes like 5 percent of the money as him, that just doesn’t make sence to me? Or how does a 2nd year player making the league minimum (McCann, Francoeur) outplay our HOF 3rd baseman? I DON’T GET IT!

Scouting, developing, playing the right players, benching the ones that aren’t performing or can’t stay healthy.

Repeat after me.

*Scouting, developing, playing the right players, benching the ones that aren’t performing or can’t stay healthy.

Repeat after me.*

Repeat after me.

*Scouting, developing, playing the right players, benching the ones that aren’t performing or can’t stay healthy.

Repeat after me.*

Repeat after me.

*Scouting, developing, playing the right players, benching the ones that aren’t performing or can’t stay healthy.

Repeat after me.*

Repeat after me.

*Scouting, developing, playing the right players, benching the ones that aren’t performing or can’t stay healthy.

Repeat after me.*

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW??

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 11:55 AM | Link to this

The problem with Diaz is that he might be the worst defensive outfielder since Lonnie Smith … or Chris Duncan. You can hide a butcher in the field for only so long. And IMO, the team needs somebody at the top of the lineup with a decent OBP; Diaz is as impatient as Frenchy, which is not good for a top-of-the-lineup guy.

Diaz drew 11 walks in 123 games. Francouer drew 23 in 162 games. So it doesn’t look like Diaz is very disciplined. But Diaz didn’t strikout as much, which led to a .364 OBP as opposed to a .293 OBP. Diaz made an out in 63.6 percent of his plate appearances, while Francouer made an out in 70.7 percent of his plate apperances.

Diaz had a good OBP, so he would be okay in the leadoff spot. And batting order is overrated. Arranging your lineup the “right” way is only worth a handful of runs a year. Who’s in the lineup is much more important than where they hit.

By Greg in TN

October 31, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

I’m with you, Lew… As many trade scenarios that are flying around out there, the bottom line is Andruw is a 10/5 guy and he wants to stay here, period.

Chris, I know you aren’t saying that just throwing money into the payroll would fix all of the problems (at least I hope that’s the case).

The Mets have spent over $93 million per season in payroll since 2001 and are only now picking up any hardware for their efforts. For crying out loud, the Yankees haven’t been to a World Series since 2000. Up until this year, we’ve accomplished that with a much lower payroll.

You are right in that the Braves were among the league leaders in payroll in the 90s, but look at the payrolls in that time frame and you’ll see that the total spent went from $20.4 mil in ‘91 to $75 mil in ‘99. The rate of inflation is no where near the rate that payrolls have escalated. Keep in mind that St Louis and Detroit made the fall classic this year with payrolls of $88 and $82 million respectively.

Now, would I like to see a little flexibility in the payroll? Sure, I think everyone does, but adding the kind of money to the payroll that has been done in NYC, Boston and LA is no guarantee that we’d even make the playoffs, much less the World Series.

By Lew

October 31, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

Rammer-You speak sense, as usual. JS will get rid of Ramirez (if you can’t trade him, non-tender him)-we need the money and though he has pitched well at times, he has missed WAY too much time and the $4 million+ he would get in arbitration makes him way too expensive for taking a chance. Get what we can, or let him go. The Cleveland deal may be workable. Braves Fan In Rockies- Andruw will NOT be dealt, so we have no need of Edmonds this year. As far as 08 if Andruw leaves, we can use the $13.5 million from Andruw’s salary and do MUCH better than Edmonds. He’s old, he gets hurt a lot and will be way too expensive for someone of his age and ability. For that matter, Tori Hunter is a free agent in 08 and he may knock out some of the interest in Andruw. We should just wait and see. Nathan-You freezing your behind off yet?

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

As far as Diaz’s defense, if he can catch the ball, that’s fine. And he can. Diaz is worth many more runs with his bat than with his glove. The best fielders are only worth about one win with their gloves.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

http://www.hardballtimes.com/thtstats/main/index.php?view=winshares&orderBy=field&direction=DESC&page=1

1 win share = 1/3 of a win.

Sorry, the best fielders are actually worth about 3 wins.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 12:30 PM | Link to this

Greg, Lew, Chris,

This is sort of off topic, but there is an interesting chapter in Baseball Between the Numbers that talks about how player’s salaries aren’t what caused ticket price increases over the years (although the reverse may happen—ticket price increases could cause player salaries to increase).

The idea is that demand for baseball tickets have increased, allowing owners to raise ticket prices.

By geauxbraves2000

October 31, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

A list of players to stay far far away from, and I mean far away:

1) Soriano - he will be way overpaid next year. He had a good year last year, but that was his free agent year. I think he is going to be a big bust, an unloadable contract.

2) Soriano

3) Soriano

I can’t think of anyone else at the moment, wait, yes I can, Soriano.

Geaux Braves!!

By TennesseePaul

October 31, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

Hello all. Vacation was great. And it was exceptionally good to see the NL prevail in the WS. After all, it is the better of the two leagues, even though they really didn’t play like it in Interleague.
The Cards won the WS on defense mainly. Or maybe I should word that as follows, the Tigers lost that on defense. Pitchers defense of all things. Which brings me to another point
As far as Diaz’s defense, if he can catch the ball, that’s fine. And he can. Diaz is worth many more runs with his bat than with his glove. The best fielders are only worth about one win with their gloves
Defense matters. Diaz is a solid player, and I really enjoyed his contributions this past season, but if the opportunity is there to improve the defense in LF, take it. The rule of thumb for the Braves has almost always been, defense over hitting. Not always. It was more of a lose guidline than a law, but it doesn’t deminish it’s importance. There are few things I’d agree with Robert on, but this is one… Run Prevention ability is more important than run scoring ability. This means pitching comes first followed very closely by defense, then offense. A player needs to be able to do more than just catch a ball. Most pro-ball players can catch a ball that is thrown right at them. The important skill is in the ability to track and read a ball to enable the player to catch it. This is one of Diaz’s weaknesses. He’s better, far, far better than Mondesi was, but he isn’t near as good as Franceour or AJ.

Now why would I say run pervention is more important? Simply because it is. This past season for the Braves is a perfect example. They were able to score a ton of runs, but couldn’t prevent the other team from scoring and they didn’t get to far. Taking a knock in the offense to improve the ability to prevent the other team from scoring would improve this teams chance. I don’t know that it is necessary though. This sort of thing doesn’t really show up in stats to well. Mainly because baseball is a team sport and attempting to subtract the teams efforts, affects and/or contributions on a players output is nearly impossible.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 01:01 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000,

I sure there will be a lot of ugliness in the free agent bidding. Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Lee, Jason Schmidt. I think those three are going to get contracts that we are going to be shaking our heads at three years from now.

By Jeff

October 31, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

Swith Salty to first and give him a chance to develop in the bushes. LaRouche certainly is showing that he’s capable at first and can fill the bill there for one or two more seasons. But Saltalamacchia seems to have the explosive power that LaRouche lacks, hence, would be the first baseman of the future.

No problem trading blue chip prospects position players) for solid pitching.

As to Schuerholz needing to get creative in his proposals in order to make deals, I have no inside track, but I still don’t buy that A. Jones is off the block, especially if a team like the Bosox, Yankees, Angels or Dodgers comes knocking. Given that these teams have the deep pockets, A Jones is likely to end up on one of them in 2008, anyway.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

I agree that defense is of course important, but a player is only worth so much defensively. The best hitter this year, according to Win Shares, was Albert Pujols who was worth about 12 wins offensively. The best fielder this year was Ivan Rodriguez who was worth about 4 wins defensively. Position players generally contribute more offensively than defensively. Most of defense is pitching.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

TennPaul,

If the Braves can get a great defensive leftfielder who can hit about as good as Diaz and they don’t have to give up too much (money or players), yes, they should go for it. But I would rather have Diaz than give up Salty for Crawford or pay $2 million a year for Podsednik or Dave Roberts.

By The Grinch

October 31, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

Morning, everyone. I see the blog is jumping with the usual not-likely-to-happen trades and “statistical analysis provided by Shaun.”

METSMAN, did you just check us for having overpriced, aging veterans? That’s been your team’s M.O. for several years now; you’re finally getting somewhere and it will be those same people that bring you back down next year. Fuggeddabouddit.

By BravesFaninRockies

October 31, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I do not disagree that batting order is unimportant, so long as the players in the lineup perform. For whatever reason, Giles did not enjoy batting leadoff and Renteria does not thrive there. If a player is not comfortable in the one hole, and plays beneath his capabilities, it’s a detriment to the offense.

It’s also true that BC tends to prefer glove guys who can hit a little to hitters who are defensive liabilities. I disagree with that philosophy, but he’s in charge.

So yes, if we can find someone who can catch and throw better than Diaz who can hit almost as well and doesn’t cost a mint, do it.

Which brings me back to Kelly Johnson …

By TennesseePaul

October 31, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Payne: To put it simply, I reject entirely the win shares evaluation of a players offense of defense. So when you post a figure for it, it’s meaningless. You will have to find a different way to justify a weak defense in favor of a huge offense. And try to frame it so that it makes sense with the Tigers of ‘06 and a the Braves of ‘06. Both those teams lost due to the inability to prevent runs.

By DGD

October 31, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

Surely now that the string of division titles is broken, JS will stop going for the quick fix. The Braves’ reality is that with a payroll stuck at about $80M for the forseable future, the team has to keep its young talent as replacements for players who become too expensive. This year they need to shed the contracts of Giles and Ramirez (AJ isn’t going anywhere). In a couple of years it will be LaRoche they can’t afford. They need to hold onto Salty and Escobar to plug in later. JS needs to stop being short-sighted!

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

The Tigers were the best run-preventing team in baseball over the course of the whole season and it showed up in their record.

But, how about the Yankees? They were in the middle of the pack in runs allowed, but scored more runs than anyone. And they had the best record in baseball.

It’s not about run scoring or prevention—it’s about run differential. There’s more than one way to skin a cat. As long as you score a significant amount of runs more than you allow, you’ll win.

By Troy

October 31, 2006 01:42 PM | Link to this

Here’s one to float around:

Trade for Ryan Freel, He could probably be had for Horacio Ramirez and if they want more maybe Thorman. Defensively he is as gritty as they come and can play 2B, 3B, and all 3 OF positions, he could hit leadoff. And would be a capable fill-in if (cross your fingers) Chipper goes down again, So there is your substantial at-bats for Diaz (who is better suited for a role position in my opinion) don’t get me wrong I like him but I think he would be over-exposed given 500 at-bats. What do ya’ll think

By Chip

October 31, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

Would a trade of Hudson and Salty for Gary Sheffield make sense? Sheff makes 13 mil this year, figure the Yankees would eat at least 8 million of that. Hudson makes 13 mil a year for the next three years, and has been bad. Maybe the Yankees (desperate for pitching) could take him and hope he regains the form he had with the A’s. Sweetening the deal would be including Salty who could be groomed to replace Posada in 2008.

By TennesseePaul

October 31, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson really isn’t a defensive upgrade over Diaz. Johnson is a converted infielder. Johnson also didn’t hit as well as Diaz. And lastly, Johnson hasn’t played ball in over a year. So I’m not sure how you could come back to Kelly Johnson as the answer. Was it because Cox stuck with him when he struggled? He drew walks, but starting slowing that down as the season wore on. And now he hasn’t played in over a year.

By Shaun

October 31, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

Would a trade of Hudson and Salty for Gary Sheffield make sense? Sheff makes 13 mil this year, figure the Yankees would eat at least 8 million of that. Hudson makes 13 mil a year for the next three years, and has been bad. May