Braves

By TheWyzyrd

January 24, 2007 07:24 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, Welcome back. TheWyzyrd

By Jerald Holcombe

January 24, 2007 07:33 PM | Link to this

Just as the Philthies are ignoring the Braves, I’m ignoring the Philthies until they can prove that they aren’t underchievers. They’ve had a number of chances in this decade to take control and have yet to play up to their ability.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 07:34 PM | Link to this

And this one at 4:19 from screen name “Computer Guy”

I am one of the people who helped install the computer system at the AJC. One of the parameters set up in the initial programming, was for the system to shut down once too many people started giving Robert too much attention. System is functioning well

By N8

January 24, 2007 07:35 PM | Link to this

DOB

You stated:

“We all know that there is a vocal minority here _ actually, two or three guys….”

I’m not sure if you are lumping me in with the “vocal minority” or not. But I just want to make it clear to you and everybody (including Robert), that while I’ve been disappointed with THE BRAVES’ showing in the post-season on most years (just like I’m sure MOST fans are), I have ALWAYS APPRECIATED what he does for the team from the middle of February until the 162nd game has been played. I believe that he MANAGES “the team” just fine. He’s probably the BEST at that…..EVER. But one cannont help but second guess SOME of the moves (or non moves) that he makes once in a while.

Like I said, I’m not ANYWHERE close to being on the same page as Robert. But having said that, I find his humor to be enjoyable. Except sometimes, I don’t think he’s JOKING. LOL!

Now about this Jimmy Rollins “snub”.

You say they added the six-finger man! I hope that works out for them. There’s no doubt that the WHOLE NL EAST (other than the Nationals), will be tough. It’s gonna be a dogfight. One that I’m looking forward to.

We’ll see. I actually like being the “underdog” and needing a few things to go our way to succeed. Makes us appreciate it a little more I think.

L8R all.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 07:39 PM | Link to this

There was this one from Lew shortly after the 1 p.m. meltdown:

Now it’s one thing for the blog to disappear, but in the middle of a Krispy Kreme discussion? Sacrilege.

But I really lied this one from Stan a short while later: “Oh my God they killed the blog! Ba$#@%$*!”

By tth

January 24, 2007 07:44 PM | Link to this

By tth

January 24, 2007 07:48 PM | Link to this

Stinky mustbe to blame for the bloggin’ shortfalls.

I remember the year that clayton delaney died They said for the last two weeks that he suffered and cried It made a big impression on me, although I was a barefoot kid They said he got religion at the end and Im glad that he did

Clayton was the best guitar picker in our town I thought he was a hero and I used to follow clayton around I often wondered why clayton, who seemed so good to me Never took his guitar and made it down in tenn-o-see

Well, daddy said he drank a lot, but I could never understand I knew he used to pick up in ohio with a five-piece band Clayton used to tell me, son you better put that old guitar away, There aint no money in it, itll lead you to an early grave.

I guess if Id admit it, clayton taught me how to drink booze I can see him half-stoned a-pickin out the lovesick blues When clayton died I made him a promise, I was gonna carry on somehow Id give a hundred dollars if he could only see me now

I remember the year that clayton delaney died Nobody ever knew it but I went out in the woods and I cried Well, I know theres a lotta big preachers that know a lot more than I do But it could be that the good lord likes a little pickin too Yeah, I remember the year that clayton delaney died

By N8

January 24, 2007 07:50 PM | Link to this

DOB

I forgot to give you my favorite reason for like the LaRoche trade:

Because Mr. Bisher is so vocally against it!

What’s he like? Seems kinda like a crabby old man. LOL! I’m just kidding. He appears to be a fan of the OLD SCHOOL thinking (when closers or stoppers went 2, 3 or sometimes MORE innings), just from judging by his “Mike Gonzalez, who comes to you by way of Pittsburgh. Got in 54 games, pitched 54 innings and became celebrated as one of those “closers.”” comment, it doesn’t appears as though he likes the bullpen “specialists” of todays game.

Can’t say I don’t blame him. But it is what it is. Teams need them. We didn’t have enough of them. Now we do.

By LeTwan Anthony

January 24, 2007 07:52 PM | Link to this

Eat pie sounds right. LeTwan will go for that.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 07:54 PM | Link to this

If anyone cares, the lost blog posts are now posted on the OLD BLOG. Great. And that probably means this one will soon lock up, too. Just an advance warning, in case we suddenly start filing posts that never appear.

By The Stranger

January 24, 2007 07:57 PM | Link to this

I’m sure I speak for all of us Braves fans here in the NW corner of the country when I say I am looking forward to watching Moyer “snake his way through the NL East this year.”

By AJK

January 24, 2007 07:57 PM | Link to this

DOB: Got an off-topic question, but since we seem to be searching for a topic in the post dead-blog hours, thought I’d throw it out. I’ve read the “top prospects” rankings on foxsports.com and sportsillustrated.com, and noticed that each only had one Braves prospect ranked in the top 75 (Elvis Andrus, around 53, I think.) What gives? I thought the Braves were supposed to have some very highly regarded minor league players. Are the all in the bigs, or gone to other teams, or have some (like Salty) just fallen down the rankings because of subpar years? How would you rank some of our top prospects in terms is future major-league impact? Thanks!

By Stinky

January 24, 2007 07:58 PM | Link to this

Thank you thank you. I’ll be here all week. Thank you.

By Tonight on TBS

January 24, 2007 07:59 PM | Link to this

The Last King of Scottsdale (2006)

Forrest Whittaker stars in an Oscar-nominated and Golden Globe-winning role as tyrannical Giants slugger Barry Bonds. During spring training, a journalist, Dave O’Brien, impresses Bonds with his insightful baseball blogs. Installed as the sluggers’ personal biographer soon thereafter, O’Brien enjoys the perks of his new position (including his own comfy chair in the Giants clubhouse), until he becomes painfully aware of Bond’s inhumanity — and the complicity of the media.

By Rosalynn

January 24, 2007 08:07 PM | Link to this

I have been trying to blog all aftahnoon. Jimma has been indisposed and left me heah to blog away. Everatime I clicked on Post, and thought my blog was on the way, it nevah appeared. Stan was right, they killed the blog. Is Stan that little boah on South Pahk? This blog is truly wondaful. I want to talk some baseball now. If Wicka weah to eat a whole lotta pimenta cheese would Wicka tuhn pink? If Wicka tuhned pink would he be as feahsome a closah? Seems like a pink closah would find it hahd to gain respect. Now, befoah I go, I would like to thank DOB foah staying on the folks at the AJC to get this blog fixed. I will probabla send Ann a canned ham in appreciation for this delightful blog. Canned ham seems to delight heah so. I’d send heah a cured ham but you can nevah tell what it had befoah it was cured.

By jc

January 24, 2007 08:13 PM | Link to this

To Rosalynn:

Hey little darlin’ Your love is legendary Love’s four letters Ain’t in my dictionary ‘Scuse my position but it ain’t missionary…

Walk on water wit me

Old chicks are hot!!!

By Odiferous

January 24, 2007 08:14 PM | Link to this

I am not “Stinky”, but I AM pretty stinky.

“I breathe the fragrance of myself, and I know it, and I like it, the distillation would intoxicate me also, but I shall not let it.”

Walt Whitman said that. He was a stinky poet.

By Don!

January 24, 2007 08:20 PM | Link to this

I hate to lose LaRoche, but look at what the Braves have in the mid-to-high minors — he’s much more replaceable than you think.

With the budget constraints the Braves have, and will continue to have until the ownership situation is resolved — we’ll need to get used to losing some of our favorite players.

After this year, Andruw is gone. After next, probably Smoltz … then Chipper.

The moves now, as painful as they may seem, are designed to build a good team now and keep a good team for 2010 as well.

I hate to say it, but to win the World Series, you don’t have to win your division. I think the Braves (and us fans) have put that goal further to the front that any of us are willing to admit.

With the infusion of talent in our bullpen, we should be more consistant throughout the season. And for better or worse, once you hit the playoffs it’s a crap shoot. The best team doesn’t always win — but the team that takes the most advantage of individual matchups and little breaks will win.

That’s what this winter’s moves mean to me. It’s all about giving Bobby Cox options. On an individual basis, we may have less talent than Braves teams of the past — but as a whole, this group has the potential to have more overall talent since the $100M teams of the mid-to-late 90s.

I’m not sure we’ll win the NL East — but I think we’ll be one of the four or five best teams in the NL … and it would be sweet justice to win the wild card, and then the World Series over some of the same teams that have beaten us in the playoffs and payrolls over the last few years.

Later,

Don!

By Odiferous

January 24, 2007 08:40 PM | Link to this

Odiferous and Stinky. Stinky and Odiferous.

“Out of the dimness opposite equals advance…always of knit of identity, always distinction, always a breed of life.”

By brian

January 24, 2007 08:44 PM | Link to this

The thing I do not understand about Rollins comments mainly revolves around pitching. Hamels is a great young pitcher with a ton of potential and a ton of hype. A non-Hollywood rookie lefty in Atlanta had every bit and more the rookie season. Moyer is now a member of the AARP. He is solid but will at best give 5-6 innings per start. I will take Hampton over him anyday. Adam Eaton - nice contract is the best thing I can say about his performance to date. Then there is Myers and Garcia versus Smoltz and Hudson. I like Myers a lot but he is not a healthy John Smoltz. Garcia is a very streaky pitcher, often having a higher ERA, who according to a lot of White Sox sites (biased of course) had already peaked. I would expect something like Hudson’s performance the last few years from him.

Bullpen, PLEASE. No discussion needed.

Offense is a different issue. Rollins is superb, Howard is a monster, and they have Rowland, Burrell (I think) and some other solid players but if the Thorman and Johnson play close to what the Braves expect of them, we are not far behind them there if not ahead of them.

The East is there for the taking. Every team has questions, a lot of them. It will be a fun season. To not mention the Braves is bulletin board material. Chipper are you listening?

By Chipper

January 24, 2007 08:51 PM | Link to this

Uh, I am laying in the weeds listening and waiting. Thanks for asking.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 24, 2007 08:57 PM | Link to this

AJK, I’m pretty sure I saw Escobar and Salty in the Sports Illustrated top 75 prospects. I think Escobar was in the 60-75 range and Salty was in the mid 30s or so. Those are the only three however. I think Lerew, Harrison, and Brandon Jones are all top notch players but none of them are listed among the top prospects. But, if you really look at those lists they are dominated by prospects from the Mets, Yankees, Angels, Dodgers, White Sox, and Red Sox. So, I think you have to take them somewhat with a grain of salt. I think it is obvious the implication from the teams that clog up those lists.

By Stinky

January 24, 2007 08:57 PM | Link to this

But what am I speaking of, it happens every day, whatever makes the path worn and our flesh torn makes it also happen that way…

By Bob Saccamano

January 24, 2007 09:03 PM | Link to this

That sounds just like Lairreee.

By Brad in MT

January 24, 2007 09:04 PM | Link to this

I must admit, I am not completely convinced that the Braves are the best team in the East, but I do think they are better then the Phils. For Rollins and the Phils to not even mention the Braves is just going to motivate an already motivated team. The Phils constantly underachieve, and there isn’t any reason to think differently about them until they prove otherwise. The Braves might not be quite as good as the Mets, but they are very close and if they don’t win the East they have to be the Wild Card favorite.

By Odiferous

January 24, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this

“Great is Justice; Justice is not settled by legislators and laws…it is in the soul.”

By Robert

January 24, 2007 09:13 PM | Link to this

To whoever wrote the Dalai Lama post in my name

That was very funny :P

N8 - “I have ALWAYS APPRECIATED what he does for the team from the middle of February until the 162nd game has been played”

What if - there was someone who might not do as much from mid February thru game 162 - but who could manage to not singlehandedly fork things up for everybody starting with game 163. How would that sound?

By Alan

January 24, 2007 09:16 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, everyone! Boy, that was scary there for 7-some hours - a veritable black hole. It feels good to be back in Kansas, Toto. DOB, I read the Rollins piece and had the same reaction you did. The Phillies have improved, on paper anyway, but I have every confidence that they’ll find a way to mess up. They always do, don’t they? I mentioned on the “lost blog” how negative the fans in Philly are, and they have good reason. They are starved - famished - for a champion. None of their professional sports teams has won a title since the Phillies in the early ’80s (can’t remember if it was ‘80 or ‘83 - Rose, Schmidt, Maddox, McGraw, etc. - very good team - they beat John Schuerholz’s Royals - I think it was ‘83). Anyway, this year’s team definitely is a contender, but the bullpen (Antonio Alfonseca? Geoff Geary? Mickey Mouse?) is shaky and the manager (Charlie Manuel) is not going to make anyone (including Robert) forget Connie Mack, Casey Stengel and Walter Alston - or even Connie Stevens, Casey Kasem and Walter Cronkite, for that matter.

By BD Cooper

January 24, 2007 09:28 PM | Link to this

They say ev’rything can be replaced, Yet ev’ry distance is not near. So I remember ev’ry face Of ev’ry man who put me here. I see my light come shining From the west unto the east. Any day now, any day now, I shall be released.

By TennesseePaul

January 24, 2007 09:31 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the new blog and all the effort. It’s the passion, the heart, that really shows through.

This underdog status is good for a change. But even still, I don’t think Rollins would so quickly lump us in the forgettables as he, or anyone for that matter, would the Nationals. Talk about a team with no hope. Zimmerman and Patterson. I think Patterson is recovering from an injury. That’s not good. Bravos will triumph. I look to see amazing things from every last Brave on the roster. I expect it. I’m spending my April flying to and fro to the ATL for the beginning of the season. I have full confidence.

Now to go back to the other blog and see what posts I missed. Love the AJC computer guy post. Clever.

By Alan

January 24, 2007 09:39 PM | Link to this

Hey, Mr. Cooper, aren’t your initials supposed to be DB? Just wondering …

By BD Cooper

January 24, 2007 09:41 PM | Link to this

Alan, the Phillies won in 1980.

By Lew

January 24, 2007 09:43 PM | Link to this

Cole Hamels was overused last season, injured last season and is due for the traditional sophomore meltdowen or injury. Jamie Moyer isn’t going to snake his way through anything, nor is the rest of the Phillies staff as long as they have to pitch in Philadelphia. If Alphonseca is their bullpen salvation, they are in for a world of dissappointment. The Phillies offense is great, but it was last year, too and they still didn’t really make a showing. It is doubtful they will do any better this year. Rollins is right about the Mets staff, though. Old is definitely one way to characterize them. There are others.

By Metropolitan Man

January 24, 2007 09:45 PM | Link to this

Man, B. Cox has been getting robbed all these years by managing the braves. Now I see why Leo left, B. has a resume out of this world and still cant get paid. I still dont like who he manages but JS is robbing this guy blind. Thank goodness the braves are strapped!!!!

Daily News:

Had Randolph gone into the final year of his original contract as a lame duck under the original terms, he would have been in the bottom-third of managers, behind skippers including Arizona’s Bob Melvin ($875,000), Kansas City’s Buddy Bell ($825,00) and Philadelphia’s Charlie Manuel ($800,000).

Joe Torre leads major-league skippers with a $7.5 million salary in ‘07, dwarfing second-ranked Lou Piniella’s new deal with the Cubs, which pays him $3.5 million this year, and third-ranked Bobby Cox’s $3 million salary with the Braves.

Oh, and the Pilthies are talking trash becasue they have had the braves number the past couple of years. You guys should be worried about the Philthies.

By GTA

January 24, 2007 09:50 PM | Link to this

As far as I see it, the Braves really are the team to beat in the East, I feel like they are the most complete from bottom to top in both the lineup, defensively (not as much as last year, but we’ll have to see about that), and pitching. The thing is, ever since our team has been relegated to an 80 million dollar payroll, we’ve been viewed as the underdogs, and every year (with the exception of last year), we’ve come out on top. So, we may not be the big dogs in the east anymore, but it should be an interesting season.

By MBATL

January 24, 2007 09:51 PM | Link to this

Who cares what Jimmy Rollins thinks? It’s not like he’s Dayn Perry or anything.

DOB, seems to me that if, as we’ve always assumed, the Braves have journaled Hampton at $8 mil per, we still have about $5 mil to spend this year. Any idea?

By Coloradobravesfan

January 24, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Look at this Mets loser.

ESPN.com news services

A Mets fan who impersonated a reporter last season was fined $1,000 on Tuesday and ordered to stay away from Mets home games for the next three years.

Ryan Leli, 18, was also ordered to stay away from Brooklyn Cyclones games, a Mets’ minor-league franchise, and the Mets’ spring training complex in Port St. Lucie, Fla.

Leli forged a press pass to get into the visiting clubhouse last season in order to interview Mike Piazza, the former Mets catcher who played for the Padres in 2006. Leli’s questions and request for a picture with Piazza got him ejected from the clubhouse.

He’s always been my hero, and I just wanted to meet him,” Leli said, according to The Times.

Leli also remained confident in his press-pass making ability. He examined a reporter’s credentials in court Tuesday and according to The Times said: “Not bad, but mine was better.”

By The Grinch

January 24, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

The Phillies aren’t going to do squat because they’re the Phillies. Why haven’t they learned this yet? I’m going to bed; I’m not well. Later, all.

By Odiferous

January 24, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

A Mets fan who impersonated a reporter last season was fined $1,000 on Tuesday and ordered to stay away from Mets home games for the next three years.

I didn’t realize it was a crime to impersonate a journalist.

jimmy smith - watch out!

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 24, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

DOB, what have you heard about TJ Bohn? Has his name come up in any conversations you have had with Braves personel? He is another one of those guys who I wonder what the Braves would do if he had a good spring. It seems like there is a logjam in LF with no clear cut winner. And I still say that if Blanco outperforms all of them he should get the job simply because he would be the perfect leadoff hitter.

By N8

January 24, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Robert

You asked:

“What if - there was someone who might not do as much from mid February thru game 162 - but who could manage to not singlehandedly fork things up for everybody starting with game 163. How would that sound?”

In the past (with the STACKED roster we had), I would’ve been all for it. God knows the talent on those teams would’ve found a way to win more than they lost.

But I’m not so sure anymore (about April-September), I think Cox does a nice job, teaching the KIDS how to play the game the right way. I’ve NEVER had a problem with that. He got on Andruw to let him know not to “take plays off”, he sticks with the kids when they probably wouldn’t have the same treatment from other managers.

My biggest beefs with him in the past, is in the playoffs, when it’s WIN OR GO HOME, he treats the games like a game that’s taking place in April. I know Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, Neagle, Milwood, etc… are (or were for some of them), all good pitchers, that MOST OF THE TIME can get out of jams. But I’ve always felt that managers should have a VERY SHORT hook in the playoffs. But that is NOTHING MORE THAN MY OPINION.

One of the other things that always bugged my was his loyalty to some and not to others. Jeff Blauser comes to mind. The guy would’ve had to have DIED to lose his spot. In fact had he still been a Brave when Furcal came up, I’m quite certain that Furcal would’ve had to wait for his turn to play. But then with a guy like Klesko, he would say EVERY offseason: “we’re gonna give him every chance to hit lefties.” But then come April, he’s back to platooning Klesko. Then when Klesko gets traded to the Padres, he hits lefties just fine and steals 20some bases. UNBELIEVABLE.

Again, those are a couple of things that “bother me” about Cox. But 9 days out of 10, I’m very happy with him as the manager. Having said that, ALMOST ALL of the “1 out of 10” days that I’m not happy with him, come in the playoffs.

So to make a short post long, with THIS roster and younger players. I’ll stick with Cox. With that veteran roster in the 90’s, I would’ve loved to have a guy like Leyland or Guillen that ON OCCASION would call somebody out just to let the fans know he’s paying attention. Having said THAT, I’m sure in the clubhouse, or when called into Bobby’s office, when he speaks the players give him their FULL attention.

Hope that clears it up. None of this, of course means that I don’t enjoy the donkey jokes. Laughter is the best medicine. I think you are funny, even though I rarely agree with you 100 percent of the way.

By Rob

January 24, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

This is all very simple…How many games did the bullpen blow lasy year? Did the Braves address that? Who won the NL East? Did they stay the same or improve? Did the Braves improve in other areas? The Braves DID address the bullpen in a major way! The Braves did get better simply by the addition of a healthy Mike Hampton, Hudson will NOT be as bad as he was, Chipper will HOPEFULLY stay healthy, Andruw is in a walk year(History tells us what that does to players). I’m trying not to wear the crimson glasses here folks, but it’s hard. Fact of the matter is the Mets don’t have Pedro until at least July(probably Aug). What did they do to upgrade? The Phillies? I will NEVER fear the Phillies until they prove me otherwise. The Braves have always eaten up soft-tossing pitchers. Freddy Garcia has never done anything in the regular season(post-season he has), Cole Hamels(Sophomore slump), Brett Myers? A wife a*-kickin’ stud right? Adam Eaton…Texas is straight up dying for pitching and they let him go? Come on guys, we’re returning to the post-season. Let’s get behind these guys this year! It’s ours for the taking!

By Robert

January 24, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

“That’s what this winter’s moves mean to me. It’s all about giving Bobby Cox options.”

1)Cox doesnt use options - He will keep pounding away trying to ram the square peg into the round hole - witness Marcus Giles, Chris Reitsma, Adam LaRoche

2)Options would just confuse him anyway. If you’re gonna keep him, definately got use the KISS principle, which is what worked in the regular season for the great 90’s teams.

All he had to do was to figure out which pitcher’s name top pencil in (and rumor has it Mazzone actually took care of this bit of business), walk the lineup card out to the ump, and then stay out of the way while the adults were working

By Alan

January 24, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

Someone earlier mentioned that Mark Redman still is available and wondered if the Braves might be interested in him. I’ve been wondering the same thing. You’d think someone (Mets? Blue Jays?) would have signed him by now. Same with Ron Belliard (Raffy’s younger brother, BTW). He was the starting 2B for the WS champs last year. Speaking of which, I read earlier today that the Cards have offered Jeff Weaver a 2-year deal, but the Pirates (supposedly emboldened after acquiring LaRoche) also are courting him.

By journalist jimmy smith

January 24, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

esoteric tonight, aren’t we, stinky? high brow, low esteem. this journalist is not too worried about getting in trouble impersonating a journalist … now, impersonating -that is something stinky might watch out for. now, grinch in bed at 10 o’clock? oh, the humanity! bird flu! and did bob ever return to the blog or is mrs. bob still watching? and where is scalp’em tonight? much food has been discussed lately with no input from scalp’em. and what is deviled ham and how is it deviled? how can they get a ham in such a little can? and how long would it take wicky to go through a can of deviled ham? much to ponder. now, laroche … when he comes in from a huntin’ is he gonna be surprised!

By Robert

January 24, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

“teaching the KIDS how to play the game the right”

Gotta disagree with you. Andru, Ryan Klesko, Jeff Francoeur - thee very good players who made very little progress as hitters once they reached the bigs so long as they stayed in Atlanta uniforms

I’d be willing to bet Chipper Jones, as great a hitter as he is, wouldve become a BETTER big leaguer had he played for a different manager

I am firmly with BirdDawg on this one. A prospect will not reach full potential under Cox.

Cox can show the youngsters how to keep their diapers clean (starting with his own). Other than that, he has no useful baseball skill or wisdom that he is able to impart to his charges

By chef jimmy smith

January 24, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

here’s one that will make dob cry:

Deviled Ham & Cheese Ball

YIELD: 1 large cheese ball (approximately 3 1/3 cups cheese mixture)

2 cans (4.25 oz each) of UNDERWOOD® Deviled Ham Spread 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons freshly minced onion 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (WRIGHTS® Hickory Liquid Smoke preferred) 3/4 teaspoon celery salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 cup chopped nuts 1/2 cup radish slices 1/2 cup pecan halves

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients except nuts. Chill until slightly firm. Form into desired shape and garnish with nuts, radish slices and pecan halves. Chill several hours or overnight. Serve with crackers.

“form into desired shape” sounds a little repulsive but on the balance, this sounds like a tasty treat.

By Robert

January 24, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Hey N8 - laughter IS the best medicine. It’s nice that some folks can disagree with each other in a civilized manner

N8 - The Klesko example bugs you. It should. How can you say he shows young guys how to play the right way, and then admit that Klesko got SIGNIFICANTLY better the moment he left Atlanta

I am pleased with Cox somewhere less than 1 out of 10 but probably more than 1 out of 100 times. (it would be 1 to 200 or more if I werent so pleased when he gets himself ejaculated from the game)

When he pulled Andru out of a game for dogging it is one of the rare times I think he taught a player a needed lesson.

Other times, he tends to be more loyal to veterans - he only plays with and sticks with rookies when he has no option - and at those times, he throws them out there but doesnt teach them anything not having to do with Huggies

“when he speaks the players give him their FULL attention.”

Of course. If they dont, then you get run outta there - like Kenny Lofton, Gary Sheffield, and Fred McGriff did

We never hear about that tho - You speak out to or against Cox, you disappear fast - Of course, Rocker, who was the one real cancer who deserved to be run out, gives him an excuse to label anyone who doesnt toe the line as a problem child

The problem is that even if you pay full attention, very little of what he hee-haws makes any semblance of sense

By Robert

January 24, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

“But then with a guy like Klesko, he would say EVERY offseason: “we’re gonna give him every chance to hit lefties”

Every chance defined as one at bat against a UGA or GaTech pitcher - and if he didnt hit a leadoff grand slam, the experiment against lefties would be done for the year

The man runs the same experiment the same way every year, and expects the results to change. He is either the dumbest mofo in baseball, the stubbornest mofo in baseball, or (my belief) both.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 24, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Rob, you make some very good points. The Mets did not improve themselves. Alou is an upgrade over Floyd but not much of one. And, Alou is just as susceptible to injuries as Floyd is. Alou has spent time on the DL every season for the last five or so seasons. The starting rotation didn’t get better. While Trachsel was nothing to write home about, he did eat up innings and won 15 game (I believe) last season. Pedro won’t be back until the All-Star break….maybe. El Duque is a year older and you can be certain he is likely to have some more of his stuff. Jorge Sosa isn’t what I would call a quality pickup. If he was so good, the pitching depleted Cardinals would have kept him. The bullpen is about the same. It could be a little worse.

Now, take the Braves. The offense did take a hit with the loss of LaRoche but Thorman and possibly Wilson platooning with him will make up at least 85% of that loss. Kelly Johnson will be a much better option at the leadoff spot than Giles was. If he can play adequate defense you would have to consider the position an upgrade. The rotation gets Chuck James for an enitre season and the additon of Mike Hampton. And as Rob said surely Hudson will pitch better. The bullpen is a no-brainer. With Gonzales, Soriano, and Wickman at the backend of the pen it has to be considered one of the best in baseball. Not even the Padres have that strong of a threesome. McBride, who was death against lefties last season, should onl get better.

The Phillies did improve in the starting rotation. However, that bullpen is awful and they have nobody to bridge the gap to Gordon. The offense is very good but I wonder if they won’t miss Abreu. I think the surge they had the last two months of last season was due to “what do we have to lose attitude” since everyone including themselves had written them off.

The Marlins offense will improve by the mere fact all of those youngsters have a season under their belt. The rotation is still strong. And the bullpen hasn’t gotten any worse.

Reality is the NL East is up in the air. But, I have the feeling the Braves will be picked 3rd or maybe even 4th. I hope they do. That will give them motiviation, which will go along with their hurt pride, that will cause them to focus even harder and want to prove everyone wrong.

By Rob

January 24, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

This is exactly why ATL is consistently voted the worst sports town in America. WTF has Klesko done since he left the Braves? I love Ryan Klesko, but the answer is nothing! Bobby Cox is the best manager in baseball and you goat-humpers are too stupid to realize it. We just finished up with the greatest sports accomplishment ever, and you sister-mollesters can’t even see it. God no wonder people don’t wantr to live in Georgia…..the winters are too freaking harsh! You have nothing else to get out and do. All I have to say is if incest is the topic, you f^%%ING people have the market cornered!

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

Robert (JIB), people keep forgetting about Bohn _ I’m sure many don’t even know the Braves have him _ when discussing the LF situation. But he could be a factor with a good spring. He hit .283 with 20 doubles, nine homers and 15 steals in 97 games (378 at-bats) in Triple-A last year in Mariners organization, and in 2005 he hit .310 with 33 doubles, 13 homers and 31 steals (40 attempts) in 135 games in Double-A and Triple-A, most of it in Double-A.

I’ve got a feeling we should keep his name in mind, that he’s going to be a factor one way or another. And yes, his name has come up in a few conversations, including at winter meetings, when I asked about OFs.

Anything can happen. Someone could get traded. Braves could decide (though I’ve got no reason to believe they’re leaning this way) that Diaz has some trade value now and might not later if he doesn’t repeat last year’s performance. Who knows? Just too early to tell.

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

By the way, I called Thorman tonight in Canada, for a story I’m gonna do in a week or so. He’s excited, but at same time not taking anything whatsoever for granted. Dude says he’s going to spring training with both his gloves (OF glove and 1B mitt) and just trying to do everything he can to win a spot on the opening day roster.

Gotta like the attitude. Good guy. He’s been hitting with Pete Orr at a batting cage near Toronto that’s halfway between their houses (they live about 1-1/2 hours apart).

By Robert

January 24, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

“Dude says he’s going to spring training ….. and just trying to do everything he can to win a spot on the opening day roster”

Keeping some sugar cubes and apple slices in his uniform pockets cant hurt

The way to a donkey’s heart is thru his stomach.

By Ron

January 24, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Who cares what Rollins says. The Phillies is the biggest underachievers in Baseball over the last few years. They thought they were goin to win the World Series back when they signed Jim Thome, and ended up not even makin the playoffs. They were favored by many to win the World Series. Let the Phills keep talkin and NYM keep talkin, we will see when the Playoffs start. Oh yeah NYM, PAYBACKS A B***!!!!!!! You will find that out when we kick the Mets asses this year.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 24, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Thanks, DOB, for the info. I have a feeling that Bohn and Blanco are going to throw a huge monkey wrench into the LF situation and just may force Cox and JS’ hand. If I were Diaz and Langerhans, I sure wouldn’t come to spring training thinking they have the slot in the bag.

By Sir Stealth

January 24, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

Well DOB, I knew you liked good food, but when you posted that East NC barbecue was the best, I was impressed. I knew you liked a lot of good music, but posting “Ft. Worth Blues” goes beyond that. I think that Ft. Worth Blues is probably the best Steve Earle song there is, pre or post-jail, and really gets to the heart of what he represents in his music (which puts it up there on the list for best song ever period).

Thing is, you’ve been so dead on that I’m really starting to worry about the Laroche-Gonzalez trade and you saying you wouldn’t have done it, even though your disapproval isn’t strong. Please ignore anyone who incorrectly and ignorantly accuses you of homerism and post as much positive material as you can about that trade or the upcoming Braves season in general.

All right, I’ll ease up on the praise now and get back to worshiping the real one true god - Bobby Cox.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 24, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

DOB, another question. I was also wondering about Lerew and Harrison. If they have great springs and Davies and Cormier struggle or even have great springs as well, what (in your opinion) would the Braves do with Harrison and Lerew? Has either of their names came up in conversations?

By Robert

January 24, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

RJIB - Rest assured. JS has had sixteen plus years of experience in trying to compensate for a bone throwing a monkey wrench into his plans

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Hey, how ‘bout those Dawgs tonight? From 17 down to beat Kentucky by nine in overtime. Impressive, even if UK is reeling a bit….

Is anybody else hooked on Friday Night Lights? Really good show. But they shoulda given the RB a better nickname than “Smash.” I mean, he goes around referring to himself in third person as Smash.

But again, it’s a really good show. And the coach, uh, did alright for himself, didn’t he?

By futurebravesgm2413

January 24, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Thats sad how Orr and Thorman are good friends. Looks like Orr may not have a roster spot.

By Canuckbravesfan

January 24, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Can’t help wondering why everyone seems to be so critical of Diaz’ defense. When you look at the stats, he had the 2nd best Range Factor of the Braves outfielders. Andruw best at 2.61 but Diaz right behind him at 2.56 with Francouer at 2.08 and Langy at 2.15

Also interesting to look at home and road B.A.’s for Francouer and Langy. Langy hit .296 at home but only .186 on the road. Francoeur .305 at home but only .217 on road. What causes the great disparity ???

By David O'Brien

January 24, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

Harrison probably needs more minor league seasoning. He’s going to be really good, but he’s only 21 and there’s no need to rush him. Double-A hitters batted .272 against him after his promotion from A-ball last summer….

Lerew just hasn’t impressed with any consistency in Triple-A (3-5, 7.48 ERA last season) or his limited chances in the majors. Not yet.

Braves know what they have in Villarreal and Cormier. They’re not sure what to expect yet from Lerew.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 25, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

I found the following to be quite an interesting little nugget. It was in a Ken Rosenthal article on foxsports.com.

A National League G.M. says of the Braves, “People jumped off the bandwagon too soon. Even before the (LaRoche) trade, they were underestimated. They were a very good run-scoring team last year. They fixed their glaring weakness – the bullpen. And the rotation is OK. They’ll have Chucky James the whole year. (Tim) Hudson should be better. And Smoltz is Smoltz. There really isn’t any weakness.”

By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan

January 25, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

Do you have knowledge as to whether Martin Prado is playing Winter Ball at all?

Also is there often a concern after a young hitter like Kelly Johnson goes a year without seeing major league pitching because of an injury and then is tossed back into the action? Or once you’ve seen it you’ve seen it, and theres not much of a layoff?

If Prados playin ball down there and Johnsons been on the MLB shelf for over a year, you might see two guys who are competing for a position in two very differant places. I wonder if Johnson will have the support of the front office if he can;t hit the broad side of the barn in the Spring. I know the Braves are usually extremely patient with young players, but when you have hot competition… well, it will be interesting.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 25, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

I have said and will continue to say that this team could be better. I know it isn’t going to happen but I would love to see Jacque Jones, Rocco Baldelli, or Alex Rios in LF. I would even like the Braves to maybe take a chance on BJ Upton and if they could somehow get Delmon Young that would be a steal. (Side note: I don’t understand why the Devil Rays would want to get rid of Young. That kid is a superstar in waiting. He’ll be bigger than Puljos or Howard or Ortiz.) However, I think the team as currently constructed is very good and as good as any team in the NL East. Like this scout said there are no glaring weaknesses. The Phillies have the bullpen, the Mets have the starting rotation, and the Marlins have some offensive issues and the bullpen isn’t very good. The Braves, on the other hand, have a decent rotation that could be dominating. They have a terrific bullpen that could be the best in the majors. And, they have an offense that is very good and if Kelly Johnson and Scott Thorman do what the Braves expect them to do and quite frankly what I think they will do this offense will be more balanced and thus more dangerous. Before anybody says I have been on the fence about Johnson, I was on the fence about his defense but if Hubbard says the kid is ready then he is ready.

Part of me really hopes Bohn or Blanco shine in spring training. If Blanco gets the LF job then the leadoff slot is filled without any worries and if it is Bohn then we could be looking at a guy capable of 20HR/.295avg/20-30SB

By Tomahawkin

January 25, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

D.O.B. many of the cats I’ve talked to on da phillies blog, are giving us props that we are gonna be tougher in the N.L. that most of the “experts” on ESPN will give us credit 4…

KC You stated that the most improved teams will be the Flubbies and us Bravos…I agree wit ya on that, especially since I think Cliff Floyd will clown this year at Wrigley…

However, when The Athlon sports Baseball annuals come out in about 10 dayz, I bet they will differ…

Grinch in response to ur post in da last blog…

“That image of T’hawk bouncing around in full Braves regalia and whackin’ chicks on the a* with a foam tomahawk is hilarious. Live large while you can, man. “

You damn rite, playa! I was doin it big! U shoulda been there, you would’ve had U some big fun…

Where’s Carroll At? Haven’t heard from dat cat in a grip! I conjure the image of Carroll, cussing out the TV at Loud Audibles, much Like I do…

SEC Baseball will B here in 2 weeks, Can’t wait! College Baseball games are the shyt…Everyone and dey mama be at the games gettin tipsy and getting they chill on…

By Tomahawkin

January 25, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

D.O.B. I heard stories at the end of da last blog about, maybe one of the relivers getting put on waivers or traded…And I just heard U quote that you been doin this 4 about 6 years now…I usually keep up with the wherabouts of the spring training “Flash in da pans”, but I lost sight of Travis Wilson, I remember the TBS commentators giving him high praise 4 his bat…Anyone knows where this cat is doing now?

By Head Coach

January 25, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Lets see.We know what the Braves bullpen is airtight , the rotation could dominate or implode , the offense is more than edequate and the defense is questionable. The Phillies pitching is much improved with a fine offense and closer to back them up. The Mets have the best offense in the N.L. but their rotation is a mystery and the bullpen is still outstanding. The Marlins are a year older and less a closer with a new manager who knows the Braves inside and out. The Nationals are a doormat. I would have to agree. Very , very , very interesting. My prediction : A DOGFIGHT from start to finish and I have no idea who will come out on top other than to say the wildcard will more than likely come from the N.L. east.

By Tomahawkin

January 25, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Robert, I think Jacque Jones would be too expensive to trade 4…I like the Idea of Baldelli better…And I will probably get clowned 4 this, but I’m sticking by my idea of Corey Patterson…But at this point in the offseason, I’m living fantasies right now…because I know this is what we will have barring a few samll deals or two heading into Opening day…

By Tomahawkin

January 25, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

We thought the Nats were out doormat last year, and dey played us tough all year…

By N8

January 25, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Rob

You said:

“This is exactly why ATL is consistently voted the worst sports town in America. WTF has Klesko done since he left the Braves?”

A) I’m not from Atlanta, don’t live in Atlanta, and NEVER plan on moving there. So that point is irrelevent.

B) IMMEDIATELY upon leaving the Braves, Klesko’s numbers ALL went up.

1998 with Braves: 18-HR, 70-RBI, 5-SB 73-AB against lefties.

1999 with Braves: 21-HR, 80-RBI, 5-SB, 56-AB against lefties

2000 with Padres: 26-HR, 92-RBI, 23-SB, 137-AB against lefties

2001 with Padres: 30-HR, 113-RBI, 23-SB, 186-AB against lefties.

Now, one could argue that as he got older, he matured as a hitter, thus having more success against lefties….OR…one could argue, that once he was given the chance to play EVERYDAY, he relaxed and performed better ALL THE TIME. Also, I’m guessing he just didn’t ALL OF THE SUDDEN become “quicker” as in 21 MORE SB’s QUICKER!!!

On the flip side, the player we traded (one of them) for Klesko, Reggie Sanderrs, he went from 36 SB’s in 1999 with the Padres to 21 with the Braves in 2000.

So the next time I hear or read that Bobby would “love to have a running team, but he just doesn’t have the horses to do it”, I’M GONNA PUKE! I’d rather Bobby just say: “I like Pitching, Defense and as many 3-run HR’s we can get”. If it’s not his style than fine. People will also say “look at Furcal”. YUP. Look at him. The kid had 96 SB’s (combined at many levels) his last year in the minors. What was his “Braves High”?

Again to ALL THOSE THAT DIDN’T SNAP BACK ABOUT RYAN KLESKO, I appologize, I’m not really bashing on Bobby. But for those to assume that he is perfect, that doesn’t sit well with me either. Like I’ve said, I LOVE THE WAY HE “MANAGES” THE TEAM. As in how he keeps egos in check, and such. Just not a big fan of some of his “on field” decisions. That’s all.

As far as what Klesko has done lately? That wasn’t at issue. What was being discussed was

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 25, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

N8, I agree with you about Klesko. I think Bobby made the same mistake with him that he was making with LaRoche until Jordan’s injury forced his hand. I also fear he will do the same with Thorman though I’m not totally against a platoon with Wilson, at least for the first couple of months of the season. You can’t know if a left handed hitter can hit left handed pitching until you let him do it. In most cases I view platoons like NFL quarterbacks. If you have “two” starting quarterbacks then you really have none. Same with platoons. In most cases.

By Head Coach

January 25, 2007 01:55 AM | Link to this

Thorman is the starter and Wilson is the backup until proven otherwise. I believe McCann should bat cleanup and Andruw fifth. McCann and Chipper are the two toughest outs on the team and Andruw is a better slugger than McCann. Andruw batting fifth would make it impossible to pitch around Chipper and McCann not to mention that putting the two toughest outs back to back in the lineup only enhances the offense.

By Zac

January 25, 2007 02:48 AM | Link to this

This blog was probably falling because of the amount of replies clogging up bandwidth. I’ve always noticed the longer the blog, the larger the page load. If you see this Dave, what has Devine done this offseason? Did Pendelton not receive any other job considerations this offseason or does he want to be Bobby’s heir? Just heard the new Bright Eyes ep 4 Winds, good stuff.

By Robert

January 25, 2007 03:15 AM | Link to this

“I’d rather Bobby just say: “I like Pitching, Defense and as many 3-run HR’s we can get”. If it’s not his style than fine. People will also say “look at Furcal”.

You want Bobby Cox to say something that logically explains what he has done or what he is (God forvid) THINKING?

Well, that’ll be the day, when you say goodbye Yes, that’ll be the day, when you make me cry You say you’re gonna leave, you know it’s a lie ‘Cause that’ll be the day when I die

By Robert

January 25, 2007 03:25 AM | Link to this

Caption this photo

http://www.bravesbeat.com/coppermine/displayimage.php?album=toprated&cat=-128&pos=0

By Zac

January 25, 2007 03:31 AM | Link to this

Robert, you are a retard. People more involved in baseball, more informed about the structure of baseball, more closely related to Bobby Cox, all rank him very, very high amongst major league managers. What makes you think you are so much more right than multiple people so much more informed than you? A better question, why do you think this anti-cox (we know you aren’t anti-cocks) bs is going to convert people on an Atlanta Braves blog?

By Robert

January 25, 2007 03:31 AM | Link to this

The look on Mazzone’s face in that picture is absolutely priceless

By Zac

January 25, 2007 03:42 AM | Link to this

[By Robert

January 25, 2007 03:25 AM | Link to this

Caption this photo](http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f38/zaphrodesiac/gheys.jpg)

By Robert

January 25, 2007 04:16 AM | Link to this

“A better question, why do you think this anti-cox bs is going to convert people on an Atlanta Braves blog? “

Well, since I dont expect any other team’s fans to campaign to solve the Braves biggest problem …… (use that Einstein mind of yours to figure out the rest)

The Photoshop shop was cute. Can you make one where Bobby says “Hee-Haw”?

By Robert

January 25, 2007 04:21 AM | Link to this

“Robert, you are a retard”

Zac, I swear I am NOT really Bobby Cox

By Shaun

January 25, 2007 08:48 AM | Link to this

So the next time I hear or read that Bobby would “love to have a running team, but he just doesn’t have the horses to do it”, I’M GONNA PUKE! I’d rather Bobby just say: “I like Pitching, Defense and as many 3-run HR’s we can get”. If it’s not his style than fine. People will also say “look at Furcal”. YUP. Look at him. The kid had 96 SB’s (combined at many levels) his last year in the minors. What was his “Braves High”?

I hate to get into the Cox debate. I’d really like to take O’Brien’s advice, but this response may explain some of the flaws in Robert’s thinking. And is more specific that just saying “Cox is a good manager because of overwhelming consensus by people knowledgeable about the game (though I think those two reasons are more than valid).:

Could it be that Cox understands the value of the steal perhaps better than most others? This is just a thought, but maybe he just understands that it’s dumb to run yourself out of a big inning to advance one base. I mean, look at how many times the Braves have been near the top in the caught-stealing rankings—2000 they were 2nd, 1999 the were 4th, 1992 they were 6th, 1991 they were 3rd. Other than those four years, they’ve never finished in the top 10. They’ve only been in the top three twice.

We’d have to look at how that compares to other managers but maybe Cox just understands the right level of aggression to apply.

By Harry

January 25, 2007 08:52 AM | Link to this

DOB- Ft Worth Blues- good stuff. El Corazon is a great album. Earle songwriting seems to have faded a bit. Have you ever seen the performance of Ft Worth Blues on Austin City Limits tribute to Townes Van Zandt? Now, that boy could write a song.

By Alan

January 25, 2007 09:16 AM | Link to this

All of you guys criticizing Bobby Cox for platooning players do realize that platooning has been going on since the beginning of time, don’t you? Barney Rubble never played when a lefthander started in the old NFL (National Flintstones League). Seriously, every “oldtimer” knows that Casey Stengel almost always used a platoon system in left field. In spite of that “shortcoming”, he was considered a fairly good manager in his day. Have you guys forgotten who platooned in left with Klesko in late ‘95 and throughout the postseason? Yep, Mike Devereaux, who was MVP of the NLCS that year. So, Klesko “blossomed” when he was traded to the Padres. Good for him. The Braves didn’t exactly give him away. It was a bold move at the time. (As I recall, that was when the Braves got Veras and Sanders to add speed to the top of the order, something many of us would like to see happen now - add speed, that is), and it didn’t work out. That happens occasionally. The manager has to work with what he has. That year (‘98) when Sanders was here, the Braves acquired BJ Surhoff to - yes - platoon with Sanders because Sanders was having a terrible time. If I remember correctly, Surhoff ended up getting the bulk of the playing time against all pitching. Point is, Bobby Cox (like most managers) “plays the percentages” a lot, but not all of the time. If he played percentages all of the time, he wouldn’t have let LaRoche hit against lefties last season, would he? I know, I know - that’s only after Jordan got hurt. Whatever. He could have put Pratt at first. Or Diaz. But he didn’t. He stayed with LaRoche. And he gets no credit for that. Just dumb luck. Right.

By Lew

January 25, 2007 09:34 AM | Link to this

Good Lord-Eight hours sleep and I return and it’s the same old crap again and again and again. Quit responding to the one trick pony(who really doesn’t do that one trick very well). There is nothing you can say to change his mind. Any mention whatsoever of his favorite topic just sends him into waves of orgasmic pleasure. It’s just plain time to change the subject. It’s all a zero sum game arguing with this logicless person. He’s a flippin’ fanatic and you can never change a fanatic’s views. They just KNOW they’re right. We’ve managed to make it with only very occasional mentions of Carl Crawford based trades. Let’s try to do the same with this other unmentionable topic. I mean, we almost have gotten Shaun toned down on the stats. It just might work with this lunatic, too.

By Shaun

January 25, 2007 09:37 AM | Link to this

To avoid the Topic That Shall Remain Nameless:

It’s obvious the Braves want Kelly Johnson to earn the 2B/leadoff spot. Renteria will bat second. Then it’s probably Chipper, Andruw and McCann in