Braves

By Lew

January 28, 2007 06:27 PM | Link to this

There is no way any top ten list is complete without Carl Palmer. The dude from U2 and no Palmer? Preposterous.

By joe from central ca

January 28, 2007 06:37 PM | Link to this

I agree this is probably the last we see Langy in a Braves Uni. As far as the list of drummers goes I don’t see how any list could be complete without Neal Pert from the band Rush not being on it. That guy is unreal plus he writes most of the music. He has to be on at least any top ten list of Drummers.

By Earl

January 28, 2007 06:43 PM | Link to this

Where’s Neil Peart from Rush? The magazine Modern Drummer called him the fifth best drummer ever, and the best rock music one (also happens to be in one of my favorite bands) He has to be included.

As for left field, I think it should be Diaz, he proved to everyone he can hit better than the other two and give him enough at bats he could have close to as many home runs as Wilson, plus he’s two years from arbitration.

By Islander71

January 28, 2007 06:43 PM | Link to this

My problem with trading Langerhans and keeping Wilson and Diaz is that can you really see someones potential if they are never given a chance to play everyday? I think LaRouche is the perfect example, most people were not convinced he could play everyday until the Braves were basically forced into playing him everyday due to injury. With Langerhans you at least have youth, signability, and great defense to build on, or at least take a chane on.

With Diaz, as much as I liked what he did last year, he’s not an everyday player and Wilson is signed for 1 year. If he has even a decent year there is no way he stays with Atlanta under these payroll restrictions. So if we trade Langerhans, Wilson leaves after this year and Diaz still isn’t an everday player what have we gained? We still have the same unresolved left field issue compounded by Andruw leaving (most likely). I mean come on if you are basically handing an everday job to Kelly Johnson and Scott Thorman to prove themselves why not Ryan? What other options besides a big trade are left for this year?

By Dr. Tchock

January 28, 2007 06:45 PM | Link to this

I personally am by no means an expert on drummers, but I definitely have a lot of respect for them. It’s gotta be frustrating to drum for a lot of bands while getting next to no recognition or attention. But just from personal preferences, your friend put together a pretty nice list. I definitely agree about Buddy Rich, and if we’re going into jazz, Art Blakey is another favorite of mine.

In rock, some that I love that may not be WAY up there in most lists are Phil Selway of Radiohead (I have a slightly unhealthy “appreciation” of Radiohead) and Chris Frantz of the Talking Heads. I’m not sure why they came to mind, but they’re pretty great. Selway in particular gets little attention and doesn’t really do the crazy solos that some of them put out, but some of the really off-kilter rhythms he comes up with are incredible.

By jsizzle

January 28, 2007 06:50 PM | Link to this

I say hold onto Langerhans. Apparently, a wrist injury slowed him last season and I think we haven’t seen the best he has to offer yet. As for Langerhans vs. Diaz, I’d rather have Langy’s glove than Diaz’s bat. I love Matt Diaz too, so I say keep them both and platoon all three. Unless we can get Baldelli, of course.

As for drummers, John Bonham is all you need to know! Without Bonham, Page and Plant just would not have been able to get the Led out!!!

By Jay

January 28, 2007 06:56 PM | Link to this

I rather give roster spots to the young infielders. We have no idea if Johnson can hack it at 2nd, Renteria is gone in two years, we all know Chipper’s health.

With low obp Frenchy, plus two unknowns at 1st and 2nd, the last thing we need is a fourth lineup spot to be a black hole. Sell Langy to the highest bidder.

Plus couldnt we have Johnson play left field if things got ugly and then put one of the prospects at 2nd?

Ideally I’d like to trade for a leadoff hitter to play left, or someone who can move to center when Andruw leaves.

By MBATL

January 28, 2007 06:57 PM | Link to this

I suspect the Braves will keep Langerhans, and start him; with Wilson off the bench at LF and 1B, and Diaz the odd man out. Diaz had a great year in ‘06, but I just don’t think anyone expects him to continue to hit .300… but who knows. And, at some point, we’ve got to give some attention to defense on this team.

As to drummers, this is the only post I’ll make on that because I’ve never been real attentive to drummers (Bonham and Moon are obviously icons).

I always really appreciated the percussion in the Allman Brothers music - but am not sure how much of the credit goes to Trucks, and how much to Johanson - maybe it was the combination. The mix of Southern R&R riffs and the almost Caribbean-sounding percussion always fascinated me.

By Jay

January 28, 2007 06:58 PM | Link to this

As for drummers, what about the guy from Smashing Pumpkins? He made that band.

By The Zoo is at Grant Park?

January 28, 2007 07:03 PM | Link to this

John Bonham is the greatest but one of the drummers that would make my top 25 list would have to be LARS ULRICH(sp)from Metallica. Not sure he is up there with the best but he should get a mention.

By Cleanuphitter16

January 28, 2007 07:07 PM | Link to this

Islander makes a good point…if you trade Langy, get a decent year from Wilson and watch him and Andruw walk next season, then all of a sudden your outfield consists of Frenchy and Diaz and nothing else. Unless there are some strong OF candidates hiding in the minors that will be ready by ‘08, holding on to Langy now might be advisable. An outfield next season of Diaz in LF, Frenchy in CF, and Johnson/Thormon (fresh off a full season in the IF) in RF kind of scares me!

By Head Coach

January 28, 2007 07:10 PM | Link to this

Ryan Langerhans can play defense and Cox likes players who do. Langerhans played hurt most of last season which didn’t help his inability to hit right handers. Diaz can hit and I mean this guy can flat out rake. His range is somewhat limited , but he did become an adequate outfielder and I think he has the best chance at winning the job in left. Craig Wilson in left would make Klesko look good , besides the fact that Wilson primarily plays first and right field. I’d prefer to see him play first and pinch hit. T.J.Bohn , Willie Harris and Doug Clark will make spring training extremely competitive in the outfield. I would have liked to see Blanco get a shot , but lets face it. Cox isn’t going to have three young inexperienced players ( Johnson 2B , Thorman 1B and Blanco LF ) in his everyday line up. At any rate the outfield is deep , well stocked with talent and should not be a problem in 2007.

By Brad in MT

January 28, 2007 07:10 PM | Link to this

As much as I like Langerhans, I really don’t see how the Braves could keep him over Diaz…I think in the end it will come down to whichever one the Braves can get more for. I am sure that JS will find a way to work it all out before the seasons starts, and it never hurts to have a few options.

By David-ATL14

January 28, 2007 07:11 PM | Link to this

Considering BC’s penchant for Defense I think Langy stays, and Diaz will be shipped. Wilson’s skills are duplicates of Diaz. Plus langy is the only one capable of playing CF if Jones was injured or needed a few games off.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2007 07:12 PM | Link to this

Matt Diaz suspiciously reminds me of Eli Marrero, who had one really nice season here, and then sucked after the Braves traded him. Craig Wilson has proven to be a decent hitter for a while now, and Langerhans is still 26 years old and could improve with more playing time. I’d try to trade Diaz for the best player possible (preferably an infielder) and let Wilson and Langerhans battle it out.

By Keb mo

January 28, 2007 07:14 PM | Link to this

Touch call on Langerhans and Diaz. Hate to give up on Ryan, but in reality, I havent seen much. I also cant trust Diaz to be solid for an entire year. The most awesome thing that could happen to the Braves is Blanco can take over in LF and lead-off. I would rather see him struggle batting .240 than to see Langerhans doing the same. Get some experience and a little speed at the top. I realize that is a long shot, but we can all hope and pray!

By futurebravesgm2413

January 28, 2007 07:15 PM | Link to this

What I think should happen: Start Blanco in LF at least against RHPs and hit him 8th to start the year. This would make the bench Wilson,Aybar,Woodward,Pena and Langerhans. Trade Diaz. Blanco could turn into a good leadoff hitter in time too. His speed in the bottom of the lineup would also help.

WHat I think will happen: Langerhans platoon with Diaz and Wilson playing 1B, platooning with Thorman. Bench is: Aybar,Wilson,Diaz,Pena, and Woodward.

I don’t think there is a market for Orr for a trade. Prado may be a useful utility guy in time but doesn’t deserve a starting job. His numbers in winterball were poor.

By levinalaska

January 28, 2007 07:16 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves will keep Langerhans as insurance for CF if/when Andruw Jones signs elsewhere next year. Langerhans wouldn’t replace AJ’s bat but he would do a fine job defensively in CF.

Diaz can flat out hit, but I think he’s the odd man out this time. He’d probably draw some interest from an AL team where he could be used as a DH or PH.

Time to trade Diaz while there is some upside to him.

By MBATL

January 28, 2007 07:19 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14, great point about backup in CF. Without Langy, what happens when AJ needs a rest or is hurt?

By Canuckbravesfan

January 28, 2007 07:23 PM | Link to this

DOB—I asked this question on a previous blog, but it was’t answered, so here goes again. Why was Langy’s home b.a. over a 100 pts higher than his road number ??? Same for Francoeur, hitting .305 at home and .217 on the road ?? Why does this happen ??

By leviinalaska

January 28, 2007 07:23 PM | Link to this

If Langerhans were traded, I would suppose that Frenchy would have to move to CF on days Andruw wasn’t playing. What do you think, DOB…could Francoeur cover CF?

By Brad in MT

January 28, 2007 07:24 PM | Link to this

If Langy is traded, that would leave a hole for next year if Andruw leaves, but we would also have quite a bit of money to spend on a replacement, so its not like the guys on the roster now are the only options for next year.

By GermanBravesFan

January 28, 2007 07:28 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB… first things first: how about Max Weinberg, drummer of the E Street Band, on that list? Just a thought…

Left field: tough question. Any chance the Braves might tryo for Baldelli again during Spring Training? Giving up prospects (as was discussed here so many times) doesn’t sound too bad. Include Kyle Davies AND one of two: Langerhans or Diaz. Then have Wilson as back-up. What do you think?

Hope all is well in Hotlanta. Still hoping to get that job in Kennesaw. California is nice, but a long way from Turner Field!!!

By Head Coach

January 28, 2007 07:29 PM | Link to this

Diaz would be the last guy the Braves would trade unless somebody were to make one of those offers the Braves couldn’t refuse. He hit .327 in 300 at bats last season . He has a major league .305 batting average and a seven season minor league average of .315 , like I said before. The guy can flat out hit. Craig Wilson in left ? Um , since 2001 he has played 278 games in right , 264 at first , 40 at catcher and 47 in left. Defensively , right and left are as different as night and day.

By Wayne in UT

January 28, 2007 07:30 PM | Link to this

If we are keeping LF warm for our future left fielder (Salty, KJ back out there after the young inf develop, Brandon Jones, Cody Johnson), then I say just keep them all now and let them duke it out in spring training. To be honest, I don’t think we could get much to help us out immediately by trading them.

I suspect Diaz would be the odd man out, as JS has a penchant for selling high (Marrero, Thomas). He might could include him in a package if they go for a better LF in the spring (Rios, Baldelli, etc.)

By StingerSplash

January 28, 2007 07:35 PM | Link to this

Mighty Max Weinberg from the E Street Band (listen to “Backstreets” off “Born To Run,” and try drumming along while in traffic. Impossible). Stephen Perkins from Jane’s Addiction. Mr. Peart (great, if not sometimes too Ayn Rand-ish, lyricist). What’s in Langerhans’ favor is that he’s a lefty off the bench, runs very well and can play center if need be. As much as I like Diaz and what he brings to the plate and table (hard-nosed attitude), he might be the expendable piece. Where’s Rowland Office when you need him?

By Canuckbravesfan

January 28, 2007 07:40 PM | Link to this

Why on earth would you think Woodward is any kind of a lock for a roster spot over Orr ?? Have you really looked at this career numbers ??? They are pretty shabby with no upside at all. Orr on the other hand made no errors last year covering three positions. He had six fewer hits on the season compared with 2005 and his b.a. was only .253 vs. .300 in 2005—and he is a lot cheaper than Woodward.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 07:44 PM | Link to this

Well, I think Diaz is the better option to get traded simply because he is the better hitter. I would suspect an AL team would be a better fit. Although Langerhns could be attractive to some teams because of his defense.

Possibly the Angels would consider trading Figgins for Langerhans and another prospect. Langerhans could serve as a late inning replacement for Vlad or Garrett Anderson. I have read that while Vlad still has a cannon for an arm that his range is limited at best. Anderson is surely a step slower than he used to be. And with Juan Rivera out for at least the first two months or so of the season the Angles may need the extra outfielder.

I still say the Cubs may be willing to trade Sean Marshall or Carlos Marmoul for Langerhans simply because Langy would be a perfect late inning defensive replacement. He would be a better option than Angle Pagan that is for sure. If the Cubs do trade Jacque Jones, Diaz could be attractive to the Cubs. They could move Murton to RF so he can play everyday (like he deserves to) and Diaz could platoon in LF with Floyd. Soriano has already said he would be more than willing to move to CF and the Cubs seem to be receptive to the idea if it came to that.

One scenario I think would be interesting is Wily Mo Pena. He is going to be relatively cheap, somewhere between $1.2 mil and $1.7 mil depending on what an arbitrator says. He has power, some speed, and showed last season he could hit for average. The Red Sox may consider Langerhans because he could serve as a late inning replacement defensively for Manny, who is shall we say less than dependable on the defensive side of things.

I still say the Braves should offer a package of Langerhans/Diaz, Paronto/Yates/Davies, and Escobar for Melkey Cabrera. If the Braves could get Cabrera the left field situtation would be solved. Craig Wilson could spell Cabrera and Thorman as needed unless Thorman does struggle and a platoon is needed. Aybar could give relieve Chipper one day a week, if not two. Woodward could spell Johnson at 2B unless as with Thorman Johnson struggles thus forcing a platoon to be needed.

I know this is beating a dead horse but it would be nice to get Baldelli or even Delmon Young from the Rays. I really do think as spring training approaches the Rays will be more willing to discuss a trade. That rotation is awful. Kasmir may or may not be healthy. Casey Fossum is definitely not completely healthy. And the rest of those guys would barely be able to start for most teams’ AAA clubs. I think if the Braves were to offer Diaz or Langerhans, Escobar, and Davies for either Baldelli or Young the Rays may listen. They have Ben Zorbist slated to start at SS and everything I have read is saying that Zorbist has no business being in the majors but Upton defense was THAT bad at SS that they feel they have no choice. Escobar could start now for them. Davies would give them another arm to compete for the rotation. He is only 23 and very possibly could be a #2 someday. I think last year could be chalked up to injuries. Diaz or Langerhans would simply serve as a replacement. I realize that is a bit pie in the sky but the Rays are close to competing and they need arms. Davies is better than anything they have on that roster right now except for Kasmir and McClung.

DOB, why is it that Blanco is not even on the radar. Is it something about him that Braves scouts and officials think will keep him from being a productive major leaguer? Is it his lack of power? If he is hitting leadoff, who cares if he homers? That is Renteria, Chipper, and Andruw’s job.

By Wilson

January 28, 2007 08:01 PM | Link to this

I agree with most of you that Cox will most likely keep Langy simply because of defense. However, I would prefer to keep Diaz. To tell you the truth I dont really get the purpose in signing Craig Wilson. Why have as the back-up plan for 1st base a below average player who is on the downturn of his career? I would like to see Diaz/Langy combination in left with Wilson as a bat off of the bench. I doubt Blanco will be in the mix.

On another note, when is the deadline for the liberty media transaction? Any hope Blank is going to buy the team? If that could only happen we might be able to keep Andruw.

By DDRDAWG

January 28, 2007 08:01 PM | Link to this

I don’t care what they do in left field. Please get a power hitting left-hander. Every year the Braves have been a great offensive team they have had a left handed power stick in the lineup (Fred McGriff).

As for drummers, Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater is one most of you have never heard of but is one of the best studio drummers alive.

By stew

January 28, 2007 08:01 PM | Link to this

We really need Baldelli at this point. That may be easier said than done. I’m not so sure about KJ, Hampton, Wickman, Soriano, or Gonzalez. Wick’s fighting father time and the other four are coming off injuries. I pray Prado, Escobar, Diaz, Langy, Woodward, and Orr don’t make the team. They’re all a waste of time.

By Josh

January 28, 2007 08:06 PM | Link to this

Joey Kramer makes my list. I believe that Diaz every day is a .300/20/75 guy. I also believe that if you have someone like that on the bench you don’t need to trade for another one. I still don’t get why Cox wouldn’t bat Renteria leadoff with Diaz second taking pressure off the young Kelly Johnson by hitting him in the lower third. No division titles under my belt, however…

By snowball's chance

January 28, 2007 08:06 PM | Link to this

I would hate to give up on Langerhans, but the right side of the infield needs to prove itself offensively for the Braves to carry a defensive specialist in left.

1 Bonham

2 Moon

3 Baker

4 Hart/ Kreutzman

5 Helm

6 Ringo

7 Frosty

8 Keltner

9 Appice

10 Dryden

Buddy Rich might be the best but he was a total a***** so I will go with Krupa. The best drummer I ever saw and I have seen 80% of my top ten live, would be Ravi Shankar’s tabla player, Alla Rakha. A fabulous Jazz drummer who is still with us is Jack DeJohnette. He has played with many greats but his most influential gig is driving B***’ Brew with Miles Davis. They tore down the wall between Rock and Jazz. It’s all just music.

By Eugene

January 28, 2007 08:07 PM | Link to this

The lack of a bona fide left fielder will hurt the Braves. Because of our penny pinching ways the Braves will go into the season like they did last year with thier bullpen. Hoping for a miracle. The front office needs to bite the bullet and get a veteran bat before the season gets away form them early. Not in June when the left field platoon is hitting .230 with 4 HRs and 21 RBIs.

Best Drummers: Moon (The Who) Peart (Rush) Bonham (Led Zepplin) Emory (Earth Wind & Fire) Baker (Cream) Paice (Deep Purple) Ward (Black Sabbath) Appice (Dio) Copeland (The Police) McBain (Iron Maiden) Ward

By Wilson

January 28, 2007 08:09 PM | Link to this

I would be interested to see everyone’s MLB standings predictions…

By Mike

January 28, 2007 08:16 PM | Link to this

My thinking is send Davies, Langerhans and a hot shot shortstop in the minors to Tampa Bay for Baldelli. It seems the team has enough possible future candidates at that the shortstop position. Use Cormier or Villarreal as the fifth guy. JS has done a terrific job with the bullpen and losing LaRoche still leaves plenty of offense.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 08:25 PM | Link to this

I wonder if the Blue Jays would trade Rios for Davies, Escobar, and Langerhans/Diaz? The Blue Jays need a SS in the worst way and Escobar would be better than their current options of Clayton or McDonald. Davies would give them another arm to compete for the rotation and quite frankly he is better than the options they currently have. Heck, even Russ Adams would be an improvement in LF.

Also, the Rangers could be interested in giving up Robinson Tejada for Diaz. Diaz could platoon with Catalanotto in the DH role, especailly if Sammy doesn’t work out.

Wilson here are my predictions as of right now:

NL East: 1. Phillies 2. Braves 3. Mets 4. Marlins 5. Nats

NL Central: 1. Brewers 2. Cubs 3. Cardinals 4. Astros 5. Reds 6. Pirates

NL West: 1. Dodgers 2. Padres 3. D-Backs 4. Rockies 5. Giants

NL Wild Card: Braves

AL East: 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Blue Jays 4. Orioles 5. Devil Rays

AL Central: 1. Tigers 2. White Sox 3. Indians 4. Twins 5. Royals

AL West: 1. Angels 2. A’s 3. Rangers 4. Mariners

AL Wild Card: Yankees

By Jason

January 28, 2007 08:26 PM | Link to this

Max Roach and Art Blakey!

Criminally unmentioned.

By Brian

January 28, 2007 08:31 PM | Link to this

Your friend is crazy if he doesn’t have Dave Matthews Band’s Carter Beauford on his drummer list.

By cjohnson

January 28, 2007 08:31 PM | Link to this

Dave…..I am shocked that you didnt even mention the best drummer of all time being Neil Pert of Rush….I suggest you reconsider this….also strangely enough i would have to consider Alex Van Halen. As far as left field goes, I really hope we can put together a package to get Rocco Baldelli then we would be set for October. Langerhans,Villareal, and James would do it.

Thanks for all your great blogs…..keeps me tuned into the AJC.

By Greg

January 28, 2007 08:32 PM | Link to this

I would echo the questions of why Blanco isn’t getting a serious look. I’ve heard he’s a defensive stud, and we know he can fly.

Given that Wilson will definitely be around, why not bundle Langerhans and another player to the Cubs for a guy like Ryan Theriot? Then Kelly Johnson can play LF and Theriot can play 2B and leadoff. Langerhans only value is as a CF on an otherwise strong offensive club.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 08:43 PM | Link to this

I wonder what Kenny Williams and the White Sox would want for Ryan Sweeney or the Indians for Ryan Garko?

By Wilson

January 28, 2007 08:44 PM | Link to this

Robert, what is your logic for the brewers winning the central?

By Rosalynn

January 28, 2007 08:47 PM | Link to this

I mentioned a few days ago that Madeline Albright favohed a milk beauty bath. Sometimes Madeline would soak foah houhs.

When Madeline heard that milk baths would make her beautiful, she left a note for her milkman to leave 25 gallons of milk.

When the milkman read the note, he felt there must be a mistake. He thought she probabla meant 2.5 gallons, so he knocked on the doah to clarifa the point.

Madeline came to the doah and the milkman said, “I found yoah note to leave 25 gallons of milk. Did you mean 2.5 gallons?”

The future Secretara of State said, “I want 25 gallons. I’m going to fill my bathtub up with milk and take a milk bath so I can look young and beautiful again.”

The milkman asked, “Do you want it pasteurized?”

Madeline said, “No, just up to my +i+s. I can splash it on my eyes.”

Oh, my goodness! Jimma will not approve of this at all! I will not be allowed to blog anymoah!

Langahans seems like a nice boy. I think he should get to plah and if he does not hit let him plah some moah. That is what got Francoeur to wheah he is todah.

By Bryan

January 28, 2007 08:48 PM | Link to this

if ringo gets in then bill berry gets in for the simple fact that he has laid down the tracks on so many classic albums.

As far as left field goes … langy gets the job for defense, before the Rochey trade … now, man i am not so sure. I love Ryan … great baseball talent, and wasn’t he injured for a while last spring?

Just think about this …

Dale Murphy’s first full season 1978: BA .226, OBP .284, OPS 80, AB 530, H 120, RBI 79.

Four years later he is a MVP.

Ok, so on to a completely different subject.

I know I don’t post much, but i figured i should post that I am about to be out for a month or so. I am leading a gulf coast recovery crew down to costal mississippi to build houses for a month or so… internet will be minimal… will follow on radio… DOB, most spring games on the radio?

By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan

January 28, 2007 08:49 PM | Link to this

I was gonna yell and scream about teh exclusion of Neil Peart, But I saw his name in the first 3 blogs and backed off. The Cannuck has gotta be in there. Also I didn’t see the discussion about Bass players, i would hope that Les Cyapool, bassist and lead singer of primus is in there. Definatly the best bass Player I have ever heard.

The Braves fall in love with the idea of platoon players, and Defensive specialests throughout Bobby Cox’s reign. To be fair, it probably has resulted in a lot of their sucess because it promotes a team envirnment and allows many players to embrace certain roles and feel as if they are an assest. That being said, the numbers you posted on Ryan Langerhans are beyond staggering. I remember shouting last year, “Why Is Langerhans Still being pencilled into the lineup?!? I dont care if there’s a right handed pitcher pitching tonight!! If Matt Diaz can’t hit Tomo Ohka then why do you have him on your team?!?!” And other such things at my telelvision set. Langerhans is a good team guy, and good for some Web Gems here and there, but if they Trade Matt Diaz for a low level prospect I’m going to be very put off. He’s a more quality Major League player then Langerhans, he’s not going to hurt you in the field. Plus keep this in mind, if there is a platoon situation in left feild, you know Bobby Cox will commit to it. He will play the players you give him, and I definatly respect that. But a platoon involving Langerhans means 75% Langerhans and 25% Wilson. The majority of Right handed pitchers makes the platoon far from a 50/50 share. My idea is play the best player and let that be that.

By boom

January 28, 2007 08:53 PM | Link to this

Ask yourself what is it this team missing—left field, second base maybe, and a leadoff hitter? Who covers all those bases and could be had at a decent price? I SAY RYAN FREEL is who we need. I think Freel could be had for one of our outfielders and a prospect OR one of our 3 closers. The perfect leadoff hitter and ultimate hustle guy who brings a different attitude to the team. He can steal 30 to 40 bases and also play about 5 different positions if you need him to but especially LF and SECOND. His on- base percentage is very high and could fill a outfield position and leadoff for another 3 to 4 more years being he is 31 right now. If we found a way to get him we have everything covered then: great starting pitching, great bullpen, power line-up, pure leadoff hitter, good mix of youth and experience, some good contact hitters as well as pure power hitters, and a good coaching staff.

This would also take the added pressure off Kelly Johnson learning a new position and having to lead off at the same time. I say let K. Johnson play second and Thorman play first and bat them 7th and 8th—they would be two quality hitters at the bottom of the line-up and gain experience till it was time to move them up in the line-up. R. Freel could play left and leadoff. Craig Wilson could still backup first and outfield. I DO NOT THINK LANGERHANS OR DIAZ ARE THE ANSWER. Trade one of them and keep the other for the bench. If K. Johnson would get hurt then FREEL could also play second and Wilson could then play LF and Langy or Diaz could be the backup. Aybar and Woodward could still be utility infielders.

RYAN FREEL MY FRIENDS IS THE PERFECT FIT-probably will not happen but just my opinion.

By braves fan 202

January 28, 2007 08:54 PM | Link to this

The brewers and the central, sorry but they have to compete with the world campion cardinals for that spot. Anyways what is bobby cox hating robert doing, get off the blogs. This subject is one i am very tied up about. Diaz’s bat is good and we need it for lack of laroch but langys glove is superb. I say craig wilson better do good in spring training or he gets cut. he is the only one with something to prove

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 08:58 PM | Link to this

Wilson, every year you have that one team that surprises and I think the Brewers could be that team this year. Their rotation is very good. Their bullpen needs help but so does just about every other club’s in the central except maybe the Pirates. They have the offensive capabilities. As long as they can stay relatively injury free they should be good. Honestly, my picking the Brewers is more of an indictment on the central than anything else. The Cardinals and Astros have become worse. The Cubs did improve but I’m not sure enough. And the Pirates are the Pirates until further evidence says otherwise. And the Reds just aren’t very good. Last year was a total fluke.

By Wilson

January 28, 2007 09:03 PM | Link to this

the braves are gonna rule the world! they better because Bobby Cox, one of the last great managers/old skool baseball guy, will be gone soon. along with all the other franchise symbols. This is our last chance for a wiiner. So we should all being praying like hell…

By Ron Canada

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

Starr for nuanced tonal variance and superb cadence.Diaz for his offence, and Obama because he isn’t related to any former presidents.

By Fleetenema88

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

Do any of you old geezers ever discuss anything that’s germane to the times?..Grown men 40-50-60+ years of age referring to each other as “dude”! AJC has allowed DOB to take this blog to the dogs!! You sound like a bunch of pimply-faced teenyboppers excited about spotting a couple hairs on your pubes!

By chris

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

DOB,

I think they’ll keep all three and here’s why: 1) They will end up with a platoon situation at 1b. Cox often says things like “I’m looking forward to having Giles and LaRoche this season” that we are meant to encourage but in reality, he platoons young guys.

2) I haven’t checked but isn’t Wilson primarily a 1b? He may have played some OF but he’s mostly a 1b.

3) It isn’t unusual to have only two middle infielders. I know they have all kinds of candidates this year but I believe if Johnson starts, Prado goes to the minors, Aybayar is a backup and the other spot is a battle between Woodward and Orr— and that probably means Orr gets cut.

My two cents…. Chris

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

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

Ryan Freel could be the answer…at least short term. I just don’t know. I like Baldelli and I even think a guy like BJ Upton could be a possibility. I know he has some attitude issues but Cox and the Braves orginization are just the ones to straighten that right up. Delmon Young would be really nice. It has been reported that the Devil Rays are willing to listen to offers for him and Upton. Now, I can’t imagine why they would want to trade him when Carl Crawford is as good as gone after 2008. But, perhaps the Rays would be willing to trade one of these guys to shore up another position where they are definitely lacking such as SS and starting pitching. Again, the Rays can’t be so crazy as to think that any team is going to give them two major league experienced starters or even two major league pitchers of significant worth. If they do, then the current front office is just as bad as the former front office.

By de-cider

January 28, 2007 09:10 PM | Link to this

Moon is at the top of the drummer’s list. If we go to jazz, I would have to include Billy Cobham. Also, don’t forget about Ansley Dunbar. The guy played with just about everybody.

By Gil

January 28, 2007 09:10 PM | Link to this

Depends on who stays healty during spring training. Face facts. Ryan is the only guy who can really play all three all three outfield positions and he can hit. Last year he played hurt most of the year after a red hot spring. Diaz can just flat out hit. Someone will take him in a New York minute if the Braves don’t want him. Wilson is a good looking player too. I think he was signed to replace Ward. It is a good problem to have. Like being too rich. Or having too many starters. We have seen how that has worked out have we not? But who knows? They may be some young kid we have not heard of coming to camp that is going to blow us all away this year. Don’t think it’s going to be Blanco. Maybe they will convert Lilpage to centerfield. PS. I vote for Buddy Rich…

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 09:18 PM | Link to this

DOB, is there a reason that Blanco isn’t getting a shot from the Braves?

By Atl

January 28, 2007 09:19 PM | Link to this

this is off topic but is Furman Bisher the same Furman Bisher that worked with former atlanta mayor ivan allen to try to get a baseball team to atlanta back in the 1960s

By Train Wreck Bystander

January 28, 2007 09:22 PM | Link to this

No comment on the left field situation. But as for drummers:

An amateur drummer dies and goes to heaven.

While he is waiting outside the pearly gates, he hears some incredibly fast drumming coming from within heaven. He immediately recognizes the playing, and asks St. Peter if that really is Buddy Rich playing drums in heaven. St. Peter responds:

“No, that’s God. He just thinks that he’s Buddy Rich.”

=====

Q: What is the difference between a drum line playing together and shoes in a dryer?

A: Nothing

=====

Q: How can you make a drummer slow down? A: Put a sheet of music in front of him.

Q: How can you make that drummer stop? A: Put notes on it!

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 09:31 PM | Link to this

Another option in LF could be Craig Monroe or Marcus Thames from the Tigers. I don’t know what the Tigers would ask for in return. Monroe isn’t the most patient of hitters but did hit 28 HR and 92 RBI last season. And if Andruw does leave after 2007 Monroe could be his replacement as far as the power numbers go. Just looking ahead if Andruw does leave and Monroe was acquired. In 2008 Monroe could play LF with Francoeur moving to CF and TJ Bohn could possibly play RF or even move Monroe to RF, keep Francoeur in CF, and move Thorman to LF with Salty at 1B.

By Ron Canada

January 28, 2007 09:51 PM | Link to this

Let me add some names to the drummer list.latin - Ray Yslas on Roger Espinozas ‘cafe fuego’ jazz - James Cobb zydeco Tommy Alesi of Beausoleil, and Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood mac.

By Ron Canada

January 28, 2007 09:54 PM | Link to this

Buddy Rich was just to Vegas for me.

By Ron Canada

January 28, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Snowball - Leaving Helm off was an oversite. the band was king!!

By chip

January 28, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

I would HATE to see Langy go. For those Braves fans who haven’t actually watched him play (or gone to a game and focused on his play), this kid plays some incredible defense. And right now, with some question marks in the infield (1b, 2b, and, yes, even Chipper at 3b), we need a good defensive outfielder. Besides, in a year Andruw will be gone, and Langy is the only guy on the roster who is anywhere near Andruw’s defensive abilities. He could be playing CF for us in 2008. -chip

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Well, I think Diaz will be the one who gets traded simply because he has more overall value than Langerhans. Langerhans has the defense but can’t hit. Diaz can hit and also plays decent defense. I honestly feel that a team like the Blue Jays could be the team to make a deal with. The Jays, I believe, would give up Rios if they could get a potential future all-star SS in Yunel Escobar ( who is much better than what they have there now); Davies, who will give them a good back of the rotation starter who could become a front line starter; and Diaz would soften the loss of Rios and give them a good solid left hand bat off the bench.

By ellaguru

January 28, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

One of life’s unanswerable questions: How is it that one of the finest drummers ever, Phil Collins, now writes jingles for Disney movies? And not just rock—listen to a Brand X album sometime.

And Bill Bruford, please. Has to be on my list. Agree on Keltner: unlimited in his imagination. The great Paul Thompson. Richie Heyward (Little Feat). Art Tripp. John “Drumbo” French. As usual it’s useless to pick so few.

By Andy

January 28, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

I definitely agree with you Boom. As I said in the last blog, I think the Braves should try to acquire Ryan Freel. He would complete the roster and be the solution to the leadoff spot. If I remember correctly he has a pretty decent glove and I know he has very good speed. The Reds have a surplus of OF. They have Dunn, Griffey, Denorfia, Conine, and Hopper. Denorfia is the leadoff hitter of the future for them. He was very good down the stretch for them last year. Freel is very versatile as well. If Johnson did not pan out he could play second base and Diaz could play everyday i left. The only thing about aquiring Freel is that we would have to let either Langerhans or Diaz go. I could see us acquiring Freel for Escobar and a bullpen arm. We actually have an excess for once. Krivsky stockpiles them like they are going out of syle

By Tomahawkin

January 28, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

D.O.B. I started thinking about you’re blog where you rated all the ballparks…

And simultaneous to that I checked out ballparksofbaseball.com, and they had a picture on their front page of Petco Park with all the developments in the background almost two thirds completed…Starting to look a lot like the back drop that Camden Yards Brings…should check it out….

By Tomahawkin

January 28, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

on the thought of Ryan Freel, I don’t see nothing wrong with it, we need more players with Fire in them, Since Brian Jordan, and Gilesie Are no longer with the team…

By Tomahawkin

January 28, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Damn….A lot of new cats up in here!

By Stuck in Kentucky

January 28, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Matt Abs(It think that is right) with Government Mule is a great drummer. He is a machine.

By Rex Boaz

January 28, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Before the Braves make a decision about left field, they must be sure KJ can handle second base because if he can’t, they still have a lead off problem. I don’t think the Braves will trade any of those outfielders before they find out if KJ can play second. If he can play second and lead off, then thay can make a decision about who stays and who goes in left field.

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Head Coach, are you being skeptical that Wilson’s going to play there, or just questioning the decision? Because Schuerholz has already said he’s likely to play there as much as he does at 1B, and also pinch-hit.

By Ron Canada

January 28, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Drumming as an athletic event just don’t do it for me.Drums should be instruments not weapons.Starr has touch Bonham and others on these list are like one note guitarist.

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Train Wreck, good drummer humor (who knew such a cottage industry?)

Robert (JIB), Blanco will be in camp, and it’ll be up to him to make it hard to send him out. But my understanding is it’s just not time for him yet, barring something outstanding in camp. Besides, where you going to put him? Who you leaving off?

By the way, Braves have too many outfielders now, and you’re proposing they trade for more. That’s not happening, again barring something unexpected or an injury or two.

By Ron Canada

January 28, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

PS - Imagine Eddie Van Halen played one note but really fast and loud. Same thing with some of the drummers on this blog.

By Scalp 'em Braves

January 28, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Lew:

I agree with your opening comment. Carl Palmer was an incredible, and accomplished drummer - even did a couple of solo albums? How many drummers can do that?

I am still on the Langy bandwagon. I don’t think the guy is hopeless on offense. He may be somewhat of a reclamation project, take time/patience, etc., and still is not going to be anything close to Andruw or Chipper, production wise on offense. I think his defense is great enough to have this patience, and continue to work with him offensively. But, if he can hit .280, 15 - 20 homers a year, drive in 80 runs, those numbers, combined with his defense, more than makes him a keeper.

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Tchock, glad you mentioned Talking Heads. They get no play from most of the audience here, I’m afraid. Love ‘em, especially Stop Making Sense (music and movie) and the older stuff on More Songs about Building and Food and Talking Heads: ‘77

By the way, what did you think of Radiohead “Live Recordings” in 2001 or ‘02, whenever it was? I liked that a lot. Since you dig Radiohead so much, what do you think of the band Clinic? I really like them, and they sound about as close as any band could to Radiohead from the stuff that I liked most, the OK Computer and Kid A stuff. Anyway, just curious about your thoughts on Clinic.

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Oh, and Tchock, one last Radiohead question: Do you have Christopher O’Riley’s cover album of Radiohead songs on piano? That’s pretty cool stuff, great for background music while working or whatever. I wondered how he could possibly make that work, then heard it and thought it was brilliant.

By yoson

January 28, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

The Braves will need Langy’s speed and drag bunt ability throughout the long marathon that is the regualer season. Diaz should be traded during his hottest batting streak, his defense is horrible, an Atlanta Braves staple. Pitching is healthy and fresh this year lets have the last third of outfield securely covered as well.

By BravesFaninRockies

January 28, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

If someone has to go, it’s probably Diaz. Langy is an insurance policy at all 2 OF positions if any of the regulars is hurt. None of the other three (Diaz, Wilson or KJ, in the case of a true emergency) could play CF, and I’m not sure if they could play RF for more than a game or two if needed. We must hope that Langy at least hits his weight.

By BravesFaninRockies

January 28, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

Oops. Meant all 3 OF positions.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

I hear you, DOB. I was suggesting that we attempt to acquire an outfielder that would be better than what we have. As I mentioned earlier, I think it would be a good idea to see if the Cubs will give up a Sean Marshall for Langerhans or Diaz. I’m also looking ahead to replace Andruw when (if) he leaves. Also, DOB, are the Baldelli talks completely dead or just dormant? I read where some folks in Tampa are becoming like fans in Pittsburgh and wondering why no deals have been done.

Also, do the Braves have a backup plan in case Kelly Johnson doesn’t work out. I don’t think its Prado since the Braves have all but said that the job is Johnson’s to lose.

By JSS

January 28, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

Where’s Kenny Clark and Joe Morello? Clark created modern timing, kicks, accents… Morello taught drummmers how kick it up even further… Kupa’s solos were magnificient but those two made the bed and turned back the sheets. I mean if you want solos, listen to Chick Webb…

Oh by the way, anyone who thinks the Braves will be better without Andrew Jones is on meth… Schuerholtz looks crazy for not locking him up 2 years ago… He’s not Javy Lopez…

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Hey folks, I know it’s a difficult proposition, deciding what to do with these guys. That’s why I asked. I don’t see an obvious, no-brainer answer, which is what makes it so interesting.

Keep this name in mind: Brandon Jones. He’s their No. 4-rated prospect, he’s 23, could be here in another year or so, and he’s a stud who can play any of the outfield positions. Great athlete, excellent range and arm, hits for power.

Had a bit of a down year last year, but still had 14 homers, 15 steals, 60 RBIs in 107 games between A-ball and Double-A despite playing part of season with a sore shoulder that required clean-up surgery and knocked him out for most of last month. Braves love him.

Back to the trio _ Diaz, Langerhans, Wilson _ sure, you’d prefer to keep both Langerhans and Diaz (Wilson’s going to be here, so that’s not an issue), because Langy might develop offensively his defense is superb. But unless you’re confident he’s going to start hitting … I don’t know, man. You keep all three, then you’ve got a real tough decision to make elsewhere.

Even though bullpen is exponentially stronger, I still think Bobby will probably break camp with 12 pitchers because you’ve got a 40-year-old starter (albeit a very durable one so far) and another coming back from an 18-month absence for major surgery, who you’re not going to want to push right away, I’d imagine.

But you know what, lot of this will take care of itself in spring. Things always happen. Someone gets hurt, or maybe Thorman doesn’t look ready, or maybe Langerhans has a huge spring and somebody makes an offer for Diaz … you just never know.

By Ron Canada

January 28, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

AS for Buddy Rich what happened in Vegas should stay in Vegas.

By Bryan

January 28, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

DOB, check out Easy Star All Star’s Raegee Dub version of OK computer - now that is a cd i thought “how could that work?” - but it does and it is incredible!

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 28, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

DOB, a couple of things. 1. What are the chances the Braves outfield in 2008 features Blanco, Brandon Jones, and Francoeur with Bohn in the mix?

1. What do the Braves do if Thorman has an awful spring? Wilson can’t play 1B everyday. That is not a good idea. Where do they go? Would they go after Casey Kotchman?

2. What do they do if Kelly Johnson isn’t ready to play 2B?

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

FuturebravesGM wrote: “What I think should happen: Start Blanco in LF at least against RHPs and hit him 8th to start the year. This would make the bench Wilson,Aybar,Woodward,Pena and Langerhans.”

OK, but what if Bobby takes 12 pitchers on opening day roster, as he has in recent years? That’s why it’s a tough call. I’d assume you drop Pena, which is what I’d do under this scenario you laid out.

By WALKING BEAR

January 28, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

I see Wilson more as a backup at first and pinch hitting.

That leaves Diaz/Langerhans in left.

Eight position spots plus Wilson, Diaz and Pena means eleven spots are filled. With 12 pitchers that leaves only two openings to be filled from among Chris Woodward, Willy Aybar, Pete Orr and Martin Prado.

Woodward is a pretty solid choice since he can play anywhere and that leaves Aybar, Orr and Prado with two of them losing out. They can be parked in Richmond and called up if Chipper goes down.

Or did I count wrong? If I am right then they won’t have to trade anyone. Surely they want four outfielders with one or two others who can play OF for an inning or two.

Of course if Johnson doesn’t cut it all bets are off.

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

Thorman showed enough last year and in minors that I think it’s a safe bet Braves aren’t going to drop him if he has a poor spring.

If Kelly’s not ready, they likely turn to one or two of the others _ some combination of Woodward, Aybar, Pena, possibly Orr in mix. Who knows? Remains to be seen. But Kelly’s going to get the opportunity and won’t be yanked if he has a bad first couple weeks in the ‘ol Grapefruit League.

By journalist rosalyn smith

January 28, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Oh no, my Jimma has those bad fawts again tonight, does anybuda know what to do to help my poah Jimma? He has a big ol boat named aftah him you know, oh did I say that alreadah? These aren’t little ol peanut fawts eithah, these are big ol mule fawts, and Jimma says he doesn’t know how much moah his rectum can take. I told Jimma to stick his fingah up in theyah and mayba that would give him a little relief, but as soon as he got his fingah insutted up in theyah he let anothah fawt and his fingah came flying out and nearly put my eye out! Why I think I’ll have Jimma to eat three or foah pounds of that govment cheese that he had left ovah from when he was presdent, mayba that will seize him up a little, poah dumb bastahd! Jimma says that little boah Klesko is doin fine in left field, no need to make anah changes out theyah. What Jimma? Oh, the Humanitah, Jimma just fawted so hard that blew a light bulb out and the covahs off the bed.

By Wilson

January 28, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

as far as Futurebravesgm wrote and DOB’s response. How could you drop Pena and only carry one catcher? Wilson has only caught 50 games in his entire career. There is no way they could drop Pena, right?

By Dr. Tchock

January 28, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, the Talking Heads definitely don’t get enough play from most people, but they’re fantastic. I haven’t gotten a chance to go see him or anything, but David Byrne is even still working solo, and I’m hoping to get a chance to catch one of his shows.

I absolutely love both the Live Recordings and Christopher O’Riley’s piano transcriptions. The fact that so many of the songs work well even on solo piano is definitely a testament to the songwriting talent in the band. Also, some of the sounds they can pull off live are nearly beyond belief. I’ve seen them live once (in Atlanta a bit over two years ago) and they are electrifying, even at a large venue (HiFi Buys). It also has the benefit(?) of tinting the really electronics-heavy stuff with a more human side.

I haven’t really listened to Clinic, and my attraction to Radiohead isn’t, at least predominantly, their “sound” so much as the writing and the talent and the inventiveness, etc. Still, with your recommendation, I’ll to have to look into that. So thanks there. And anyone looking to enjoy some of their later work but doesn’t like the electronic sound, the Live Recordings may (and I stress the may) be for you.

By David O'Brien

January 28, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Bryan, I’ve heard that’s a great CD. Those dudes were in Athens this fall to play that dub Radiohead stuff. I wish I’d seen that show.

Oh, and no, most spring games not on radio. Some, but not most.

By WALKING BEAR

January 28, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

DOB, dropping Pena and going with Wilson catching every fifth game makes a lot of sense. That opens all kinds of opportunity for keeping all the others including Aybar and Prado. Of course Orr would still be among the missing.

IF Cox keeps Pena all he will have is a pinch hitter and a catcher every fifth game. He can’t play anywhere else, unlike Wilson.

By Jeremy

January 28, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

He means Bryan Pena…

By dylan

January 29, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Bonham and moon re great choices but seriously you gotta look at carter beauford from DMB he is definately up there with the greats,

By Dr. Tchock

January 29, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

Oh, and I should mention, probably due to the success of the first, Christopher O’Riley has actually done a second album of Radiohead transcriptions, which is worth checking out as well. But this is what you get when you start asking me questions about Radiohead.

On the Braves, the lack of anything like a clear answer to the left field question is what’s been keeping me out of the conversation. I really couldn’t say what’s best for the team, and a lot of that wouldn’t mean much until Spring anyways, but all I have to say is that as a fan I LOVE to see excellent defense. Still, I don’t like seeing the team lose, so it’s definitely not the only priority… and hence, the lack of anything like a defnitive answer in this case.

By WALKING BEAR

January 29, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

McCann Thorman Johnson Renteria C. Jones Langerhans A. Jones Francouer

Wilson Diaz Woodward Prado or Aybar

Left out Brayan Pena Orr Tony Pena Prado or Aybar

At least they have something to choose from.

By WALKING BEAR

January 29, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Regulars:

McCann, Thorman, Johnson, Renteria, C. Jones, Langerhans, A. Jones, Francouer

Bench: Wilson, Diaz, Woodward, Prado or Aybar

Left out: Brayan Pena, Orr, Tony Pena, Prado or Aybar

At least they have something to choose from

By Wilson

January 29, 2007 12:14 AM | Link to this

I am very suprised so many are ok with having Wilson as the back-up catcher. He hasnt caught a game since 2004, and that year he only caught four, started one. He has only started twenty in his entire career, and then you expect him to be able to catch every fifth day! Seems a bigger gamble then I believe Cox is willing to take. Nor is it a good idea.

By WALKING BEAR

January 29, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

OK, if we concede your point about Wilson catching then two will have to go from that bench listed above. What do you think of Cox possibly going with 5 starters and 6 in the bullpen since they have all that quality on the staff this year?

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

First of all, there is no way in hell I would drop Pena off the roster just to keep Langerhans and Diaz on the roster. I think Pena could become the best backup catcher in baseball and quite frankly could make himself quite the little trade piece next offseason.

DOB, I do believe in Thorman and honestly I believe in Kelly Johnson too. I have a feeling that he will surprise some people. I was just wondering if a backup plan was in place. And what about Salty? Where does he play in 2008? I can almost bet he will be ready for the majors, so where does he go? One more question. What about Escobar? What if he has a mind blowing spring? Where does that put him? Also, if he didn’t have his hangup about playing 2B would Johnson even be considered for the spot.

It is quite possible that Lillibridge, Salty, Blanco, Bohn, Jones, Harrison, Lerew, and Escobar could all push their way up to Atlanta in 2008. That poses quite a problem for the Braves. A good problem but a problem nonetheless.

By Drummerdad

January 29, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

Boy DOB, you sure have drawn me back out of the woodwork!! I’ve really haven’t had time to blog lately, but I stick my head in to see what’s going on. As for left field, I just dunno. Strikes me as one of those figure it out during Spring Training things. It would be cool if they could package something to Tampa for Baldelli, but that ain’t gonna happen.

As for your drummer ratings, I understand your friend’s thinking. I’m 52, started playing when I was 5 and I now teach private lessons and play for my livelihood. So hopefully when I open my mouth to talk about this I know something about the subject matter (like it’s my job!).

Let me use a basketball analogy. I heard an interview with Lakers’ forward Jamal Wilkes. This was about 1983. The reporter asked Jamal what made him a great scoring forward. He responded by saying that he did not think of himself as a great scorer, but “an effective” scorer. Translating to drumming, there are effective drummers, and there are the GREAT drummers. The effective ones get the job done with skill and feel and “drive the bus” well. The great ones seem to have a gift above the rest. They play signature parts (like Ringo’s “Ticket to Ride” groove) at times and are generally regarded by their peers as well as the listening fan as being on another level.

I can’t make a list of 10. My hat is off to Wayne. Here are names that come to mind when I think about some GREAT drummers over time. 1. Gene Krupa (brought drums to the forefront) 2. Buddy Rich (people still trying to figure his stuff out) 3. Art Blakey (still an inspiration) 4. Louie Belson (modern father of 2 bass drums) 5. Max Roach 6. Roy Haynes 7. Elvin Jones 8. Joe Morello (Dave Brubeck -song “Take 5”) 9.Tony Williams 10. Ringo (they fired a good drummer to go get Ringo-he’s seminal and was the glue to that band) 11. Charlie Watts (brilliant timekeeper & jazz afficianado) 12. Ginger Baker (bashin’ & crashin’-movin’ air like mad) 13. Keith Moon (outrageous) 14. Bonzo (Bonham) (strong, w/ incredible touch) 15. Carl Palmer (amazing at an early age) 16. Bill Bruford (Yes) 17. Jeff Porcaro (Toto and session wizzard) 18. Billy Cobham (Mahavishnu Orchestra and miriad others-pushed the technical wall way out) 19. Ron Bushy (Iron Butterfly) did alot for drumming 20. Hal Blaine (Phil Specter’s Wrecking Crew-incredible list of gold records this man played on in 60’s/70’s) 21. Ron Tutt (Elvis-need I say more?) 22. Steve Gadd (one of the most recorded drummers of all time) 23. Jim Gordon (Derek & Dominoes, Steely Dan, to name two) 24. Bernard “Pretty” Purdy (Aretha Franklin, Steely Dan) 25. Jim Keltner (the consumate sideman) 26. Neil Peart 27. The MAN: VINNIE COLAIUTA (from Frank Zappa to Faith Hill to the soundtracks for the Bourne Identity movies, to Bernie Williams of the Yankees, to Chick Corea, Sting and Herbie Hancock,to Jeff Beck just to name a few. HE DOES IT ALL.)

I didn’t rank in any particular order. It’s loosely how they showed up over time. But Vinnie sits on top of the heap in my book. Versatility, and musical brilliance. I won’t even go down the honorable mention trail. I’m done.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

Wilson will NOT _ repeat, NOT _ be the backup catcher. Third catcher, yes. But no way the backup. Period. That’s Brayan Pena. So forget that idea….

Great drummer stuff, Drummerdad. I feel like I learned something today, reading that. it’s nice to get a description that us laymen can understand.

I’m sure Wayne will be in agreement with you on most of those fellas. You two should chat; you’d really appreciate his accumen for this stuff, much as I’m sure he would yours.

By Head Coach

January 29, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

DOB , I’m not being skeptical. I’m just pointing out the fact that Wilson has little experience playing left field. Then again , maybe JS has overlooked the fact that Wilson has primarily played 1B and RF. At any rate I don’t think its a real cause for concern. The Braves have ten outfielders heading into spring training and we will just have to wait and see how it shakes out. Nobody has mentioned Alex Van Halen so far in the list of drummers. He had a unique , powerful style and he could sing a bit to.

By braveheart

January 29, 2007 12:59 AM | Link to this

• Langerhans moves like a double jointed athlete who is great running and throwing, but too weak in the wrists to bring the bat around. Slow bat. Won’t ever get dramatically better. Tradeable.

• Diaz can sting the ball since he’s so focused. He misses badly on stirke one and two but adjusts and pops it. In the field, if the ball is hit high down the line, don’t watch. He circles and fades and misses by about two feet every time. But his bat more than offsets. Keep him.

• The left fielder for 2007 hopefully hasn’t yet been identified. If the Braves are going to contend with the Mets and Phillies, you can’t have a pedestrian position player like Ryan or Matt as a starter. Either are OK as the 4th outfielder. No matter what happens in the spring. Water seeks its lowest level eventually.

• Kelly will be a good hitter (.275+) at second if he can learn to field the position. Likely he can. If he can, you have a leadoff guy and somebody to OCCASIONALLY give a start in LF.

Better to get a SOLID position player in Left so that Kelly doesn’t have to bounce around and you have a sixth position player (building onto C, 3B, SS, CF and RF) as productive hitting and fielding positions… 1B and 2B may have their moments, but the best we should hope for at each is adequacy.

From the bench, at least 3 HAVE to be reliable pinch hitters, as Wilson sounds to be. Hope we don’t have to look to him as a starter, however.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 01:11 AM | Link to this

I think Langerhans stays. I’d imagine Diaz would be the one offered, but don’t know what you could get in return. There are a few good looking kids in the farm. They aren’t getting the press that other minor leaguers get, but I think will be alright. Keep Langerhans and then let Salty, Blanco, Bohn and others make their move in. Or make trades. Thorman could turn out pretty good, but we have the Hawaiian kid coming up in that spot. And we have Salty. Lots of prospects pushing on these positions.

Talking Heads are pretty cool. I like some of their stuff. Sort of a hit-n-miss band for me. Radiohead gives them all sorts of props. Them and Joy Division. I just can’t get into Joy Division. I can’t. I’ve tried. I bought their stuff and tried forcing it down, but it wouldn’t take. New Order was a little easier to listen to.
My drum list pretty much just includes Bonham, Moon, Starkey and who ever else. This list can get too technical though. Dip into jazz and it gets pretty nuanced. Pretty much the case for all these lists once you bring in Jazz.

By futurebravesgm2413

January 29, 2007 01:44 AM | Link to this

DOB, you wrote this in response to my post “OK, but what if Bobby takes 12 pitchers on opening day roster, as he has in recent years? That’s why it’s a tough call. I’d assume you drop Pena, which is what I’d do under this scenario you laid out.” I think you might have been confused. With Blanco as the starting leftfielder we still have 5 bench guys in Pena,Woodward,Aybar,Wilson, and Langerhans with Diaz being the odd man out. That still leaves room for the 12 pitchers. To me this should be the opening 25 man: 1. Johnson 2. Renteria 3. Chipper 4. AJ 5. McCann 6. Frency 7. Thorman 8. Blanco Bench: 9. Woodward 10. Pena 11. Langerhans 12. Wilson 13. Aybar

Rotation: 14. Smoltz 15. Hudson 16. James 17. Hudson 18. Davies Pen: 19. Wickman 20. Gonzo 21. Soriano 22. Yates 23. McBride 24. Villerreal 25. Paronto

By kinley

January 29, 2007 01:46 AM | Link to this

As a drummer, I’d personally give Ginger Baker a spot as well. And I’m not sure how many people on this blog listen to any progressive rock, but Mike Portnoy is near the top of my list too. The guy’s just simply unbelievable.

My top three would be:

1. Peart
2. Bonham
3. Portnoy

By mr baseball

January 29, 2007 03:03 AM | Link to this

The choice appears to be between carrying 5 OFs (Wilson counts here even though he probably will play more 1B) or 7 INFs, assuming the Braves atart the season w/12 pitchers. Unless last season was a total fluke, Diaz will have to stick, because the team will not get stuck with having to start either Thorman or Langerhans against tough lefties.

If Johnson can handle 2B and Chipper can stay off the DL (2 fairly big ifs), the Braves can get by with just Aybar & Woodward as backups. Having 3 infield types among your 5 subs is 1 too many, and leaves the team strapped if an OF is out of the lineup for a few days. Woodward can play OF if needed, but do the Braves really want his middle infielder caliber bat playing for Francouer or Andruw?

With Villareal likely to be the only reliever capable of going more than 2 innings (assuming either Davies or Cormier is No. 5 starter and the other is farmed out), 12 pitchers is probably a necessity, unless the team decides to skip the 5th spot whenever a day off makes that possible.

There may not be as much competition for the last few spots on the roster as some think, barring a few guys who are being counted on getting hurt or having awful springs.

If possible, DOB, please list which of the players competing for the last few spots are out of options. That will likely impact the final decisions.

Lots of interesting drummer posts. One name nobody has mentioned is Clem Burke (I think that’s his name) of Blondie. Also, Kenny Jones, who probably felt like whoever it was who took over for Willie Mays in CF for the Giants. I think he got mentioned once or so, but Mick Fleetwood deserves some notice. He’s to his band what Joe Dumars was to the Pistons during title years. Surrounded by all sorts of talent and goes quietly about his job, which he does so perfectly he’s never noticed. And no drummer has ever had to navigate through more styles of music than he has with the Mac.

By Cleanuphitter16

January 29, 2007 03:59 AM | Link to this

I see many people on here asking for a Baldelli-to-ATL trade and I can’t help but wonder….what is appeal to this?

Look at his numbers….1529 career games and his stats are: 54 stolen bases…so hes not that great as a SB threat, 43 Home Runs, so he isn’t a power threat, .289 BA and .329 OPB so he isn’t a major league leadoff threat, .451 SLG so he isn’t a cleanup-hitting threat…so why are we all drooling over this guy and (at least on this blog) offering Salty, Davies, and lord-knows what else for him?

By Cleanuphitter16

January 29, 2007 03:59 AM | Link to this

Excuse me….1519 career ABs, not games.

By REH

January 29, 2007 06:19 AM | Link to this

Keep Diaz, and trade any of the following:

Stewart Copeland (Police) Charlie Watts (Rolling Stones) Larry Mullen Jr. (U2) Manu Katche: Martin Chambers (Pretenders) Zach Starkey

FOR: Don Brewer, Grand Funk Railroad

By bevsouth

January 29, 2007 06:51 AM | Link to this

Good point as to who is out of options? Personally I don’t see JS moving either diaz or Langy in the spring. Two backup infielders Aybar & Woodward should be sufficient.

By Ben E.

January 29, 2007 07:04 AM | Link to this

Another vote for Carter Beauford - Dave Matthews Band

By krath

January 29, 2007 07:56 AM | Link to this

I know the list of drummers could become endless, but thought I would add my 2 cents worth. The ones Dave listed are great, but just thought I would bring up some Fusion (although not totally fusion) guys.

Bill Bruford- Yes

Billy Cobham - Mahavishnu Orchestra, Carlos Santana

Dennis Chambers P-funk. John Scofield

And just in case anyone wants to throw a kudo to the latin sound, Tito Puente, although not a classic kit drummer…. more of a timbale guy.

Did I leave anyone out? Heck yeah I did! There have been tons of great drummers!

Now maybe we can talk about musicians sometime in the future(tongue in cheek, band joke… no offense to drummers here)

By krath

January 29, 2007 08:19 AM | Link to this

Forgot Dave Weckl- Chick Corea

Drummers could be like guys in the baseball HOF. Some go in as hitters and some go in as pitchers. Bonham was the most awesome rock drummer ever! But he would probably be lost playing serious jazz or fusion. On the other hand, Buddy Rich and Led Zepp would have been like oil and water…wouldn’t be a good mix.

That being said, I have heard some drummers that could cross over very effectively.

By Sims, Warner Robins

January 29, 2007 08:28 AM | Link to this

I would almost have to include the late Eric Carr (KISS) on that list of the best drummers as well as Neal Peart of Rush, IMHO

By Ray

January 29, 2007 08:32 AM | Link to this

I know some of the comments was about Langy getting his shot to play full time. That is what happened to Diaz. He never really got an opportunity to get many ab’s on a regular basis. Once he did with the Braves he produced. I think its going to come down to what the two do in spring training. If Diaz has a strong spring and shows improvement in defense Langerhans will be shipped and probably for a prospect. Dave terrific points on how Ryan’s numbers are accumulated.

By ghost

January 29, 2007 08:35 AM | Link to this

How could you forget Dennis Chambers? Mentor to Carter Beauford, Dave Weckyl, and many others. so I’ll agree with Krath, add Chambers and Cobham, both abolutely awesome drummers that made an entire genre stand out. And Mike Portnoy (freak!) and Neil Peart (duh!)

By 22oz

January 29, 2007 08:35 AM | Link to this

DOB,where is this source from the Braves saying that Thorman will play everyday? Because last week Bobby Cox was interviewed on MLB Home Plate and said he thinks they could get 30 hr 100 RBI out of a platoon at first base. Thorman’s too young and Bobby’s too stubborn to not platoon him.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 08:39 AM | Link to this

Or do they hang onto “Langy” and assume (hope?) that the offensive ability he showed in spurts will come around and eventually make him a solid outfielder _ he can play all three spots very well _ who saves runs with his glove and also drives in 70-80?

Yes, Langerhans saves a lot of runs but there is more to producing runs than RBI. An important aspect of producing runs is getting on base/not costing your team outs and also getting yourself in scoring position.

Now, Langy hasn’t been good at getting himself into scoring position (.399 career SLG) but he’s been decent at not costing his team outs (.347 OBP).

Has Langerhans been good offensively? Not really. Has he been better than most people think? Probably.

By TheCutMan

January 29, 2007 08:39 AM | Link to this

I think the Braves are set with their current roster and won’t be making any additional moves unless, as has been pointed out, another team knocks their door down with an enticing offer.

That said, competition, strong competition, sorts out the wannabes from the guys who deserve to be in the starting lineup. Going into spring training with pre-conceived notions at most ANY position would be myopic in my view.

The larger question, then, is do the Braves have the raw personnel numbers to have it sort itself out to the best starting nine on opening day?

By braves fan

January 29, 2007 08:54 AM | Link to this

I think the Braves should use a straight platoon at both LF and 1B, at least to begin with. Use Langerhans and Thorman against righties and Wilson and Diaz against lefties. The majority of pitchers in MLB are righties, so Thorman will get plenty of at bats to prove himself thoroughly. I mean, Bobby broke LaRoche in slowly vs. lefties and that worked out okay, right? Then if any of these guys gets really hot, then keep him in regardless of who is pitching. I just don’t think any of these guys has the cred to assume a non-platoon starting job just yet. So do it by the book until you get evidence that a platoon isn’t the best option. I don’t think you need to trade any of these guys. Langerhans provides insurance in case of injury to Andruw for defensive purposes in CF for this season and possibly if AJ leaves next season. Diaz was clutch at a time when the Braves were struggling. Wilson, while he has power has plenty of reasons why he never was an everyday starter in Pittsburgh for heaven’s sake. Thorman looked overmatched at times last season, so he’s got a lot to prove to me.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 08:56 AM | Link to this

The thing about Langerhans is his age. His best season should be this coming season. His ability to avoid outs, defense and low salary makes him more valuable than a lot of other players. His inability to hit for power makes it difficult to play him everyday, especially in left.

Matt Diaz has shown a bit more power throughout his minor league career and in the majors but he doesn’t exactly knock the cover off the ball either.

Both are valuable mostly because of their abilities to avoid outs. Langerhans has the clear edge on defense but Diaz has the edge in power and a slight edge in overall hitting ability. I think a platoon is nice or some kind of semi-platoon until the Braves figure out who they think is going to be the better player in ‘07.

I don’t think the Braves would get anything of tremendous value for Langy or Diaz. And I think they could do a lot worse than a platoon featuring those two especially for the money.

Unless the Braves can somehow get a big-time offensive LF, they should hold on to these two.

By im4ball

January 29, 2007 08:57 AM | Link to this

I very much agree with your top two rock drummers. To me though John Bonham stands above them all.

I might add Bill Ward from Black Sabbath and maybe Danny Seraphine from Chicago Transit Authority (original Chicago)to your list.

Outside of the fact that he is left handed, there is one other reason the Braves might want to keep Langerhans; With his speed he can play center field better than the two and thus be a better replacment for Andruw Jones should he go down or need a break.

To add to that: by giving up Langerhans (and should they cut Pete Orr) the braves would be sorely lacking in pinch running speed on the base paths.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 09:28 AM | Link to this

O’Brien,

With all due respect, I think this blog is a perfect example of an misuse of stats and the kind of stuff that makes stat lovers shake their heads

Yes, Langerhans is streaky, but I’m sure pretty much any player that is just okay is going to go through good streaks and bad streaks.

Every player goes through streaks. It’s just that Chipper Jones’s bad streaks don’t look nearly as bad as a Ryan Langerhans bad streak.

And a lot of the stats you quote aren’t as important as others to judging abilities. You quote OPS and RBI and AVG. OPS is very useful in a lot of cases, but OPS assumes OBP and SLG are on a level playing field. While SLG is important it’s not nearly as important as OBP because avoiding outs is the most vital offensive skill a hitter can possess. And I think you’ve heard me express enough the problem with RBI; RBI are largely dependent on the hitters in front of the hitter in question. And batting average doesn’t take into account walks or HBP, very common aspects of out-avoiding.

Also, your analysis doesn’t take into account age. Langerhans is going to be 27, which is the best age for most players. Diaz is going to be 29, which means he’s likely to drop off slightly from his ‘06 numbers.

Diaz has clearly been the better hitter and is likely to remain that way. But given the fact that some of their important stats are closer than you may think and their ages, I don’t think the discrepancy between Langy and Diaz is as great as it looks.

All that said, it still nice to see a sportswriter at a major metro newspaper bringing up things like OPS and trying to statistically analyze players and their abilities.

By bobbymahlon

January 29, 2007 09:28 AM | Link to this

First off keep Langerhans becaue we need defense back up both in left and center, however if my memory serves me well Francoeur was a center fielder in the minors. If we are counting on Woodward we are going to have a fourth or fifth place team because he showed me nothing in the past. Orr makes a better pinch runner in the late innings when a run is the the tying or winning run. Lets go to spring training and see how things work out before we jump and trade someone and wished we hadden.

By eddie

January 29, 2007 09:30 AM | Link to this

DOB…my fave drummer is Matt Abts of Gov’t Mule. he is possibly the best jam drummer out there.

By JSS

January 29, 2007 09:31 AM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul… Joy Division is the greatest of the post punk bands without a doubt, may I respectfully suggest you listen to ‘Atmosphere.’ If that doesn’t get you then nothing will…

Oh, Ginger Baker now that’s a good choice! Cream was great!!!

The Braves need to stop trying to reinvent the wheel… I’m always so stunned how much more versatile other teams are than ours… When Javy was becoming a catching liability, they never made a move to get him time at 1st. It would never hurt Chipper to slide over to 1st from time to time. But he is Chipper, so I guess that would be out of question, huh? Some teams adapt, other just react…

By Ron

January 29, 2007 09:40 AM | Link to this

I’d hang on to Langy because we’ll need a good defensive center fielder next year. I’ve been drumming since I was 8 years old back in 1966, professionally since I was 16 in 1974. My favorites are Ringo, Keith Moon, John Bonham, and Ian Paice of Deep Purple. Ian Paice is the best of the bunch. Bonham is most admired, and understandably so, but he was not as good. Listen to Ian Paice’s solo on “The Mule” on Deep Purple’s “Made in Japan” album, then compare that with the live “Moby Dick” on Led Zep’s “The Song Remains The Same.” You’ll see what I mean.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 09:48 AM | Link to this

I’d like to see Langerhans get the full time shot at left. I think he’ll come along offensively if given any kind of real chance and everyone know’s that Andruw is the only better outfield defender in the league. As far as drummers, I’ve seen Shrieve, Peart, Bruford (with King Crimson), Jim Capaldi, Dave Holland, Nick Mason, Mick Fleetwood, Butch Trucks and Jaimo of the Allmans, Corky Laing, Bonham (father and Son), Cobham, The Guy for Grand Funk, Ringo, Charlie Watts (I have no idea why anyone even mentioned him), and Ian Paice of Deep Purple. By far and wide, Carl Palmer of ELP and Asia was the best.

By mike

January 29, 2007 09:52 AM | Link to this

Give Diaz LF Terry Bozzio needs to be on this drummer list. He’s an animal.

By hisroyalmackness

January 29, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Anyone who leaves Dave Weckl, Dennis Chambers, and Carter Beauford off of their list of top ten, dserves no respect as a drummer “expert”! Carter Beuaford is rediculous and it seems that since he doesn’t play on 96 Rock, most of you guys probably don’t know who he is. (Dave Matthews Band, by the way.)

I really do hate that we couldn’t work out the trade with the Angels of LaRoche for Figgins/Kotchman. Kotchman would have been a great addition at first, and Figgins would have solved your 2B/Leadoff situation. Then Kelly could have stayed in the outfield and we still could have one or two of these OF for a good reliever. No one like MG, but still, good. Hate that trade didn’t work out.

By bravesfan16

January 29, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Why not keep all 3? The only problem with doing this is it only leaves Woodward as a backup for Renteria. If you have 12 pitchers plus—Chipper, renteria, KJ, Thorman, Aybar, Woodward, McCann, Pena, AJones, Frenchy, Diaz, Wilson, Langy. There’s your 25.

DOB—Going to Tweedy Solo tonight? I’ll be at Knoxville tomorrow night—-can’t wait.

By T-bone

January 29, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

I agree with Head Coach, Diaz can flat-out rake the ball

By sri

January 29, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

i know that you cant call Def Leppard a rock band, but you have to give props to Rick Allen drumming with his left arm amputated..

By Turd Fergueson

January 29, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

JS & BC will probably keep all 3 outfielders and skimp on reserve infielders. They’ll keep Aybar (3rd & 2nd) and Woodward (2nd & SS). Wilson can back-up at 1st.

As far as drummers, list should include Peart, Poccaro, the late Tony Thompson (Chic, Power Station - kinda Bonzo-lite), Steve Smith, Mel Gaynor (better than Manu Katche), and Sheila E (percussionist, I know, but still drums).

By 3trees

January 29, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

I knew DrummerDad would weigh in with the stuff. Great mention of the studio cats (Purdy, Blaine, …) Also, reaching back a bit, Earl Palmer (New Orleans drummer played with Little Richard among many others), Ziggy Modeliste (The Meters). I did think that DJ Fontana was Elvis’ drummer for a long time and the one of the ‘68 special. The drummer in the Blue Caps (Gene Vincent) was a tremendous pocket drummer with touch a feel.

Boy, only a couple of mentions of my personal favorite (any genre) Max Roach. Elvin Jones too. Rich always just struck me as chops and show. Driving a big band, I prefer Count Basie’s drummer (Jo Jones). BTW - our drummer had a lesson with Joe Morello and said that he could work on that 2 hour lesson for the rest of his life (plus, he had a great sense of humor).

So many different ways to think about drummers. Pocket, statement and/or color players. I think Bonham was a little of all. Played “against” the time so well. Created tension and groove and SOUND! Moon and Baker were both a little all over the place for me, but you can’t imagine that music w/o them. Levon is not what I think of as technically great drummer, but for The Band was perfect. Pert is a great drummer, but I don’t care for the music, so I don’t listen to him much. Hard to argue about Max with the E Street, but he’s “stiff” to me, great for that band and keeping “the bus” moving in the right direction, but his time feels ‘square’. Amen, on Keltner, Gadd, Colaiuta. Matt Chamberlain too. Incredible, versatile players.

Blah, blah, blah. Better stop. GREAT topic.

Oh, keep Langy. Good points about insurance against injury in CF. Plus, MAYBE he’ll start hitting. If not maybe B.Jones will be ready. Really, just keep ‘em both for now.

By Thrillhouse44

January 29, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

When it comes to Diaz/Langy, I say we trade whoever can get us the most in return. I like them both, but I like winning even more. I know you’re talking about rock drummers, but ?uestlove is a beast! Hey, DOB, the girlfriend and I are thinking of making a spring training trip. Any recommendations on where to stay, what to do, etc.? When exactly does training start up? Thanks!

By Tomahawk

January 29, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

I say keep langerhans because he was never given a chance to play on a daily basis. Langerhans is a better fielder than wilson and diaz. give ryan some more time and he will produce maybe not lots of homeruns but he is capable of hitting over 15 maybe even 20.

By james

January 29, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

What about Dave Grohl from the Foo Fighters. Although he is now a lead singer, he is still a well sought after drummer and in my opinion one of the best drummers I have ever seen play.

Also, I believe Tommy Lee is an excellent drummer. I know his talent is diminished b/c of his exploits, but the man can drum!

By RW

January 29, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

You can not have a top 11 list of drummers and not have Neal Pert (Rush) on there. I believe he should be #1. Bonham and Moon were great. But not Neal Pert great.

Till we lose Andruw. (Oh god help us!) Diaz should get left until he loses it. He is not a fluke and actually seems to enjoy playing. I like Langy but he always looks nervous at the plate.

By rammerjammer

January 29, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this

Say goodbye to Diaz.

JS brought in Wilson NOT to platoon with Thorman, but to play a little 1B and more OF. He’s basically Diaz, but with the added value of being able to play 1B.

It makes no sense for JS to give Bobby TWO righthand hitting OFs for a platoon situation.

Diaz will be dealt between now and April 1 (I’m assuming he’s out of minor league options).

The five reserves will be Pena (c), Aybar (2B-3B), Woodward (IF-OF), Wilson (OF-1B) and Langerhans (OF).

Including switch-hitting options, you have three lefthand hitters, four righthand hitters, and a LOT of defensive versatility.

It’s too bad about Diaz, because the dude can flat hit. He was good last year, but his minor league numbers are stunning: 2003-AAA-.328 2004-AAA-.332 2005-AAA-.371 (1.057 OPS!)

Seems to me a great DH candidate, but a bad fit for the Braves.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Sri-Exactly WHY can’t you call Def Leppard a rock band? That’s exactly what they are. As far as Rick Allen, he was phenomenal before his accident. Although the fact he still plays drums after an amputation is amazing-quite an accomplishment against all odds- he is no longer as good as he used to be and no longer ranks with the top drummers in ability or performance. Not to take anything from his accomplishments, which are unreal, but that’s the plain truth.

By dinger

January 29, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Neal Peart. A must add to the list. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TxTUO6fQuU

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse44,

That’s the thing, I don’t what the Braves can get for Langerhans and Diaz would help them win any more than Langerhans or Diaz. I could be wrong but it seems decent outfielders are relatively easy to find. Why would you trade something of value for one? The Braves aren’t going to get equal value for either one of those guys.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

rammerjammer,

I think Wilson was brought in to play 1B against tough lefties, play OF and pinch-hit. I’d be very surprised if they trade Diaz, for the simple fact that I mentioned before—they can’t get equal value so why move him? He’s productive and cheap.

And if they are concerned that much about Diaz’s defense, why get Wilson? He’s even worse.

I think Wilson is more for platoon in case Thorman isn’t quite as good as they think or even insurance in case Thorman is injured or completely flops.

By ronp

January 29, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Cannot trade either Langy or Diaz. Let’s face it, Andrew is history with Braves’ unrelaistic budget limitations and with Boras as his agent; it’s hello Red Sox, Yankees or Dodgers.

Besides, we’ll need outfield coverage this season in case of an injury.

Frenchie, with his strong arm, will have to move over to center field next year and we’ll have to endure watching him be aggressive and strike out about 150 times..

That leaves Langy in right, Diaz in left and we’re short a back up outfielder..

By ellaguru

January 29, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

sri said:

i know that you cant call Def Leppard a rock band, but you have to give props to Rick Allen drumming with his left arm amputated..

Have been thinking that’s the reality show we all want to see: a competition to find Rick Allen’s left arm!

Ziggy Modeliste. How can I have forgotten? “Just Kissed My Baby” is the greatest song of all time.

And Jaki Leibezeit. Not trying to be the too-hip record store guy but if there are any fans of the great group CAN you’ll know who I mean.

By rammerjammer

January 29, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Oops. Left Pete Orr out of the mix as a backup, since Langerhans or Wilson would be STARTING in OF.

Orr beats Prado because he has three years of SS experience in the minors and can sub for Renteria when needed. He’s also a lefthand bat. And Prado’s too young to ride the pines.

By Earl

January 29, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

I don’t see any way the Braves will be able to keep all three of them, plus Pete Orr or Prado (if they’re also going to have Woodward and Pena on the bench). At least one of them will be gone in spring training, unless there’s injuries.

By Brian O'Brien

January 29, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Ummm, drummmers:

Bobby Columby (sp) of Blood Sweat and Tears, in the mold of old school guys like Krupa.

In the heavy handed, slightly cheesy category I would have to include Carmine Appice, was with Vanilla Fudge, Jeff Beck (Beck, Bogert, Appice) and a little known, under appreciated rock outfit called Cactus.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

JSS: I bought their first two albums. It’s the mans singing voice. It reminds me too much of Bill Murray singing “Star Wars”. I have a hard to getting through it. I want to like them. So many bands I enjoy, talk them up. But man, if that isn’t an acquired taste, I don’t know what is.

Diaz, to me, comes across as a Freddy Sanchez type guy. I don’t know that Diaz will ever win a batting crown, maybe he could if had played everyday. He just seems like an unassuming type player. Traded nothing to get him and he produced well, so trading him now should certainly return more than we paid to get him. But I think he needs more than 420 AB before those numbers become serious bargaining chips.

By Matthew at the SLC

January 29, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

If you have a greatest of all time for drummers, shouldn’t Tito Puente be on that list? You did ask ever not just rock right there at the end, right? Just something to ponder, especially for a lover of great music.

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

The only thing I can say after reading that column is this… We couldn’t even get a bad prospect for Marcus Giles, a former All-Star, so why DOB do you assume we’ll be able to get something for Langerhans???

By Spider29

January 29, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

I think Diaz will be the one traded because of his offense. It seems to me that most teams try to acquire help on offense. I also would have a hard time parting with Langerhans great defense especially since neither Diaz or Wilson would be any help as a late-inning defensive replacement. And certainly neither would be a decent option on those days that Andruw needed a rest. I do agree that Langerhans doesn’t have that reliable bat but many times his defense will make up for it. Whatever happens it will be a very interesting spring and I can’t wait for it to get started!

By reverend run

January 29, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

chief wahoo and chief knockahoma are the best drummers i have ever heard

By Tim Shelton

January 29, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

No list of great Rock N’ Roll drummers is complete without have Neil Peart of Rush. He is hands down the best ever!!!

By Lew

January 29, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Ronp-If Langerhans is kept and Andruw leaves, I expect to see Langerhans in center next year because of his defense. Francoeur is better in right until he gets more experience and because of his great arm. DonC-The difference with Giles was that we were backed up against the wall. We either had to offer himarbitration or, as happened, let him go. Such is not really the case with Langy/Diaz. We could keep them both. Also, neither one costs very much. I’d let Diaz go. Langerhans will come around if they give him the chance to play. I don’t much care what anyone says-Diaz looked totally lost in the outfield last year. Langerhans will actually save runs. Diaz won’t and his hitting won’t make up for it.

By manuel

January 29, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

What ABOUT SHANNON STEWART? AVAILABLE AND THE WAY THINGS ARE GOING WE CAN GET HIM REAL CHEAP. JUAN GONZALEZ I HAVE SEEN HIM PLAYING WINTER BALL, CAN BE CHEAP AS WELL, AS A NON ROSTER PLAYER CAN PROVIDE POWER. THE GUY IS HITTING ALMOST .480 IN THE PLAYOFFS HERE.

By Kieran from Long Island

January 29, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Very tough decisions for Bobby Cox and John Shurholtz on who to cut. A few Questions on that David…

What happens if Orr doesn’t make the team? Is he out of options? Is he likely to accept a minor league assignment? It’s be a shame to lose him, but If I were him I would go else where to find a job if I didnt make the Braves team, a lot of teams would love that sort of player, Including teh Mets.

Also what 2 or 3 guys are likely to face the chopping block in the bullpen. I know you mentioned Cormier, who I would hate to lose, Yates, and Paranto. Is it likely for them to all be one the team as bullpen pitchers if Davies does fine and Villareal is in the bullpen as well? Also is tehre a Darkhorse to make the team as a releif pitcher. A triple A guy we haven’t heard much about like Kevin Barry, Peter Moylan, or Phil Stockman?

Seems to me they have the exact opposite of the bullpen situation they had last year when it was opentryouts. This year they’re going to have major league options pitching in the minors.

By ellaguru

January 29, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Benny Benjamin. “Pistol” Allen. Uriel Jones. Al Jackson.

We cannot forget Motown and Stax.

Sly Dunbar. Leroy “Horsemouth” Wallace. “Style” Scott. Roots.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Byron McMackin—drummer from Pennywise. Maybe the fastest drummer in the world.

By eware

January 29, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, I don’t know if you have a story planned for this or not, but I would love to know what our young pitchers (James and Davies) have been doing in the offseason. Particularly where they have been doing workouts and if they’ve spent any time with other pitchers, i.e. Smoltz, Hudson.

I’ve got high hopes for these guys. Especially Chuck “Invisiball” James.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

DonC: We couldn’t get anything for Giles for several reasons: Giles was set to make 5.5 million in Arbitration (he was signed for 3 million). There was a glut of 2B available on the market (which is another reason why 5.5 was too much for the guy). Every team knew we had to dump him. He had seen some decline in production. This was his last year before free agency (even if we had traded him, the other team would have him for one season).
All of that leads to no one wanting to trade for him. They all knew, if they wanted him, they could get him for nothing, so to speak.

By Rosalynn

January 29, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Jimma read what that impostuh wrote about Jimma having bad gas - but all the bloggas know it was an impostuh writing - evahone knows Jimma has a gas shawtage. That poah impostuh must be lonela and need some companionship what with his “wife” leaving him and all. That boah just ain’t right sorta like Jimma’s brotha Billa wasn’t just right. Billa couldn’t keep a woman eithah but Billa nevah embahsed himself like this boah going on and on at Christmas-time. As to drummahs, when Jimma and I weah in England the Queen had some boahs drumming evahtime we would walk by. Those boahs could drum! Also, when Jimma lets his haih down some we go to the pahk and listen to some boahs plahing in a drum circle - not the kind of circle that impostuh boah is used to - but a drum circle. Those boahs can plah some drums!

By Bruce

January 29, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Dave, My emotional response is that I hope that Thorman, Langy, Diaz and Kelly Johnson have great spring trainings and Wilson becomes an extra… What is emotional for me is that I really like Diaz and Langy and really hope they are Braves this year.

My more rational perspective is (1) Wilson would not have been acquired if LaRoche was still a Brave and (2) JS had to say Wilson would play some in left to be able to have credibility about Thorman being the mostly every-day guy at first and to avoid putting pressure in the press on Thorman. (Thorman’s comment about coming to spring training with both gloves is so admirable and does say alot about Thorman.)

I hope Langy and Diaz are strong enough in spring training that they can trade Wilson and one/two “extra” pitchers to fill any other need that emerges during spring training. Woodward would back-up Thorman if Wilson is traded.

Great article (again)… it will make your reports from spring training even more dramatic for us! Thanks! Bruce

By Glass Half Full

January 29, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Don’t see Craig Wilson getting traded. With the crazy prices out there, $2 mill is a bargain. Also, Wilson probably would’ve been a Brave last year had Thomson not been “injured” during Spring Training.

By Big E

January 29, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Great pitching and great defense win games. I’m not a big Langy fan, but I love his speed and defense. We had plenty of offense last year with the platoon in left. Granted, we lost 30+ homers with LaRoach, but I just don’t see left field an area we need to be focusing on. Chipper must stay on the field and healthy, and Andruw to continue his dominance at the plate. No one seems to be looking at the starting pitchers, with Hudson, our supposed number one, having two sub par seasons thus far. Hampton coming off rehab, and the possibility that James having a sophomore down year. I think we have enough offense, and an awesome pen. If the top 3 starters can keep their ERA in the 3.00’s, they’ll win 15-20 games each. If we can get 10 or so wins out of starters 4-5, and Villarreal doing his thing, you’re looking at 90+ wins. It’s going to be the old guys producing that is going to be the difference, not if Langy hits .245 or .345 in 70-80 games.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Diaz is no Gold Glover but he’s not all that bad. If Ryan Klesko and Chipper could play LF, Matt Diaz can. And Diaz’s bat can make up for any defensive problems. Diaz is a very good hitter. I think the Langerhans-Diaz platoon works just fine. Again unless the Braves can get a top-notch LF, why move either one of those guys?

manuel,

I don’t think Shannon Stewart is an option. He’s made at least $5.5 million every year the last four years. No way the Braves are going to go after him when they have a solid, cheap platoon in left right now.

And Juan Gone? Hasn’t played a full season in the bigs since 2004. He’s 37-years-old. His OBP were under .330 in every one of his last three seasons in the bigs. And he hasn’t played in at least 83 games a season since 2001. Juan is done!

By JSS

January 29, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave O’Brien…

Is this team’s sale going to happen or not? We’ve been thru 3 tax qtrs since Liberty outbid Blank, so either something really illegal is going on, or this thing is dead? So do you have real any word? Thanks…

Oh TN. Paul, Ian Curtis’ voice is what hooked on me JD, as my ex-girlfriend called it: “Sinatra with angst!”

By bravesgak

January 29, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

I chuckle at these comments that the Braves will keep Langerhans because defense is so important to Cox. Remember they just traded an excellent defensive/offensive firstbaseman and are going with Thorman/Wilson at first. BIG defensive downgrade there. I don’t think defense is as important to Cox as you all seem to believe.

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

You guys are missing my point. I’m not saying Langerhans/Diaz are in the same situation as Marcus Giles, what I’m saying is their has to be a DEMAND from an opposing team for a deal to get done. As much as people want to defend Langerhans cuz of his great D and Diaz cuz of his solid singles hitting ability I don’t see those 2 attributes garnering much of a demand. I am looking at this from the position of a GM on another team… I mean come on, lets face it, a great outfield glove who can’t hit are a dime a dozen in this league. And a 28 year old left-fielder (Diaz) with below average defensive skills and no power is not something I’d want either. And if you really look at Diaz, if you take out that one stretch of 12 straight hits (I think it was 12) and then the other hot stretch where he was like 32 for 50, his offensive numbers were not impressive at all… We’d be lucky to get a C+ prospect for either one of them…

By A.J.

January 29, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Best drummer of all time, Animal from the Muppets.

You guys are pretty “grass is greener.” Maybe he’ll be good, but there is no reason whatsoever to think that Blanco (or Bohn) will be in the opening day 25, much less starting.

Diaz and Langerhans are no superstars, but they’re major league players, which Blanco hasn’t proven he is.

Plus he had only 28 doubles and 4 triples in 520 ABs last year between AA and AAA. So, no amount of power whatsoever. Obviously, OBP is the most important thing for a leadoff man, and his is great, but with so little power he would have to keep that OBP way up there to have it make since.

Plus, that lack of power means he’s only worthwhile as a leadoff man. Do you really want a guy who has never seen a major league pitch as your opening day leadoff guy? If not there you are talking about him in the #8 spot.

If you really expect this kid to post a .400 OBP next season, by all means he’s a good choice. But there he’s got a long March and a lot of work to do to prove that he is even close to major league ready.

Just wait on the kid and maybe he’ll pan out, but even then, he’s no superstar. Be realistic.

A lot of people who have seen a lot more than a minor league stat sheet don’t think he’s ready, unless he proves otherwise in Spring training (and he could surprise us) then there is no reason to think he should be on the roster.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

DonC-Your point is well made, but they could be used as a part of a package deal, also including someone from our glut of SS prospects such as Escobar and our glut of relievers, such as Paronto or Yates. I wouldn’t mind seeing Davies as part of a package, either. I’m much more confident in Cormier or Villarreal. Maybe a package for Melky Cabrera, consisting of Diaz, Davies and Paronto. Or Diaz, Escobar and Davies. Works for me.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

JSS: I hear that a lot. I read it a lot to. I got their stuff because of all the people talking. And, it is pretty interesting listening to Joy Division/New Order. They are the only band I’ve found that perfectly bridged the gap between 70’s Punk/Metal sound and 80’s pop/new wave sound. It’s such a perfect transition it’s amazing. Toss that in with Yaz and you have the makings of pretty much all 80’s New Wave. I’ll give them more of a chance. I want to like it, but it ain’t easy. I have Closer and Unknown Pleasures. I’ll check out your recommendation. If you have recording recommendations for Joy Division, let me know.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

C McCann 1B Thorman 2B Johnson 3B CJones SS Renteria LF Langerhans CF AJones RF Francouer Bench C Pena IF/OF Wilson IF Woodward OF Diaz IF Aybar

That’s 14 position players. That would leave 11 spots for pitchers. Orr probably has options but I’m not sure. If not, I think the Braves will just cut him. He’s not very valuable except as a pinch-runner. If Kelly Johnson wins the 2B job, I don’t see the need to keep Prado in the bigs.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Shaun-Yes Diaz is that bad. He made several errors and made a number of easy catches look like difficult plays. He ran in circles on a number of fly balls. He’s a detriment defensively.

By Eric

January 29, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Trade Langerhans and maybe Orr or some other bench player for some prospects. Two years ago we used 18 rookies and that will deplete anyones minor leagues. So get some minor leagueres so we will have continue to have good teams. The reason I say to trade Langerhans over Diez is because a good pinch hitter is more important than a good defensive left fielder. We already have Andruw and Francour in the outfield we dont need Langerhans.

By yoson

January 29, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

The streak ended last year because of 29 blown saves..THE MOST IN THE NATIONAL LEAGUE, second in the majors only to woeful kansas city. Our relievers and closers (until big Bob came to town) looked like scared school girls when it was crunch time. With new faces in the bullpen we should be able to secure at least 2 dozen more wins. We need defense to be a top priority, batting will be even better than last season with a healthy lineup and of course the “mentor” ol’ reliable Terry Pendleton.

By Eric

January 29, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

For all the people say we need Langerhans for next season if/when Andruw leaves, you forgetting one thing Frencour can play center. He has a better arm than Langerhans and he covers just as much ground.

By A.J.

January 29, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

BTW, I am so glad that Smoltz is nothing like Clemens.

Be a grown up and make up your mind already. This is so arrogant with his little, I’ll decide when I feel like it nonsense.

Any team that really considers Clemens is crippled from the beginning of the season.

If they wait for Clemens then they start out without a full rotation. If they go ahead and fill out a rotation, then they have to bust the bank to bring him in (for 4 months).

If this guy has any love for the game at all, or any desire to win, or care for his teammates (which ever team he chooses) he will make a decision.

In sumo wrestling, when you reach Yokozuna, the highest level, you are Yokozuna for life, but are expected to step down when you reach a level dishonorable of the title.

Likewise, if Clemens has any respect for the game whatsoever, he will either decide he wants to keep going or step down.

I’m glad to know that at the end of his career Smoltz (a man of already infinitely more class than Clemens) will honor the game and his teammates enough to make a decision allowing the team to move on with or without him.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Shaun-Here’s a bit of statistical reference for you. Diaz has made 7 errors in 118 games. His career FA is .969. By way of comparison, Langerhans has made 2 errors in 268 games for a .995 FA. Andruw has made 35 errors in 1487 games and that includes 10 errors in ‘99, when he recorded more putouts (493) than any other year. Andruw makes an error every 35 games, on average. Langerhans one every 134 games (granted much lower sample). Diaz, on the other hand (or glove), makes an error every 16 games. His defense IS terrible. He makes routine fly balls look difficult. The guy is a DH with no power. In 416 AB he has walked 17 times and struck out 73 times. He only has 9 career HR. He’s only a singles hitter with a .323 OBP. No great shakes. Trade him while there is an appearance that he is better than he is.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

DonC: I wouldn’t suspect much being obtained in a straight up trade. Either one would have to be part of a package in order to get something of value. But who knows. We did get Wickman for an injured 30 year old back up A ball catcher.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 01:01 PM | Link to this

Eric-Maybe so, but with Langerhans AND Francoeur in the outfield together, it’s strength is that much more. Francoeur is still very inexperienced. Look at how many throwing errors he had last year. He is not ready to fill Andruw’s shoes. Besides, it is not a done deal that Andruw is gone. Don’t kid yourself, we may just keep him.

By 3trees

January 29, 2007 01:01 PM | Link to this

ellaguru @ 12:01 PM wrote: AL JACKSON (not all caps, that’s me). How in the world could I forget Al. This guy could knock down an elephant with that backbeat. And time!!! GREAT catch, thanks! Listen to his great Afro/Cuban beat on Crosscut Saw by Albert Collins or Mr. Pitiful by Otis or Security, or…it all grooved.

Good catch on the the Motown cats too!

By Greg in TN

January 29, 2007 01:02 PM | Link to this

Hey everyone…

Coming up on two weeks until spring training.

We have an awful lot of outfielder’s for a team that needs a left fielder, don’t we? In the end, I think it’s only realistic to anticipate either Langerhans or Diaz to more than likely end up somewhere else. It will come down to what we can get back for either on the trading block. Right now, I agree with the sentiment that we’d get more back for Diaz than we will Langerhans at the moment. I like them both, but until we see how things roll in spring training, I think it’s a dice roll right now as to what happens. I think DOB is right, these things often have a way of working themselves out through injury, someone having a monster spring that can’t be ignored or by a team coming to JS wanting to make a deal to our liking.

As far as drummers go, isn’t Carl Crawford a pretty decent drummer? (Sorry guys, couldn’t resist)

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 01:03 PM | Link to this

“I wouldn’t mind seeing Davies as part of a package, either. I’m much more confident in Cormier or Villarreal. Maybe a package for Melky Cabrera, consisting of Diaz, Davies and Paronto. Or Diaz, Escobar and Davies. Works for me.”

That would be a great trade Lew for Atlanta if they could pull that off with the Yankees, but I don’t think NY will do it. They just re-stocked their farm with pitching this offseason and their ML pitching roster is basically set (especially after they sign Clemens, which I believe will happen). Plus, why would they want a young SS prospect? Remember that guy who plays for them, I think his name is Dick Jeter or something? I believe he’s still got 7 years and $130 some million on his contract… With that said though, one thing I wholeheartedly agree with is your confidence in Villareal and Cormier over Davies, just something about Davies scares me…. But I still say we keep him, hope he pitches well, and trade him once he shows other teams he is worth a legitimate prospect.

By beachcomber

January 29, 2007 01:04 PM | Link to this

would like to add hal blaine to the “all time” list” - one of the best session drummers of all time. as to the outfield - as dob said diaz’ value probably will never be higher - and as others have pointed out, he makes an adventure out of a fly ball. hope springs eternal and there are times when langy looks like a a major league hitter. if he could tack on 25 to 30 points on the ba to go with that glove - what a combination.

By MadMike

January 29, 2007 01:06 PM | Link to this

No one mentioned Danny Carey from Tool. I know it’s a little heavy…and I know it’s only rock and roll but I like it, like it, yes I do. (I’m a Charlie Watts fan too.) Go to iTunes and get “Right in Two.” Or get “Eulogy.” Truly amazing music.

Oh and I think someone will come up from the farm system and play left field for us this year. No specific suspects…just a hunch.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 01:10 PM | Link to this

AJ,

I agree that there is no need to rush Blanco, but I think the argument that he’s not a proven player so he shouldn’t be up is not a good one. In fact, I think that’s the type of thinking that would get an organization in trouble fast (see my posts from late last week on the Cubs).

The Braves (and other successful organizations) are successful because they are pretty liberal at inserting youngsters into the major league lineup. Most smart organizations realize that this is how you build a core—young and cheap—then you add whatever you need by way of free agency and trades. This way you don’t have to overspend on your core (Baltimore Orioles) and rely on players who could start declining right after you get them (see Mo Vaughn and the Angels).

I think the Braves are looking at Blanco to spend an entire season in AAA in ‘07 then give him a chance next year to be an everyday player, unless he is extremely impressive in Spring Training or throughout the beginning of the season in AAA.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 01:13 PM | Link to this

DonC-You may be right. It’s why I rarely set out trade scenario’s. However, I don’t think Jeter is signed that many more years. Be that as it may, the Yankees ALWAYS need more pitching, especially relievers. That’s why they were so heated up about getting Gonzalez. Hell, throw Salty in the mix, too. I didn’t like the LaRoche and Gonzalez giveaways to get Cabrera, but I wouldn’t mind giving up a package including 3 or so from Diaz, Escobar, Davies, Salty, Blanco, Paronto or Yates. Any combination. If you get Cabrera, you keep Langerhans for late inning defense, or add him to the list.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 01:18 PM | Link to this

Davies had some issues last year. He pitched injured. Injured to the point his groin popped. That’s gotta hurt. His confidence was shot after that. His minor league numbers are amazing though. I think, with a healthy season, he could turn it all around and be good. I don’t know why he pitched injured instead of telling someone. Maybe he thought sticking it out like Smoltz was the way to go. Maybe all those starters knew there was no pen and figured it best to keep pitching no matter what. But I think Davies could pull it together and be very productive. Having said all that, I like Villarreal and Cormier. I think that Estrada trade was pretty frickin good. We turned Millwood into an All-Star switch hitting catcher and then into two young quality pitchers. That’s a good little run.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 01:24 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I’m not saying Diaz is a good fielder by any means, and I agree he’s better suited for DH. But he’s also a very good hitter and isn’t Lonnie Smith out there. He made more plays (Assists + Put Outs) than an average leftfielder per 9 innings and per game. So he actually has more range than you think. But, yes, he did make 5 errors.

So basically he costs the Braves 5 outs. But he made more outs than you probably realize because he has better range than your realize. But he was worth about 49 runs last season on offense (.305/.348/.452).

Again, I’m not naive enough to think just because he made more plays per game and per 9 innings than an average LF that he’s a good one. But I do think that he’s not as bad as many think. His defense is not so bad that his bat should never be in the lineup and he in LF.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 01:24 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s my disdain of the Yankees, but I don’t like the deal. I don’t think Melky is that big of a player. In 4 minor league season his OPS was below 800. So far in the majors it’s below 800. He has no power and we want him for LF. Diangerhans hit more out than he did. And I certainly don’t want to continue stocking the Yankees farm system to ensure they are good for a long time. I’d rather them keep signing our free agent pitchers. We keep getting draft picks and they keep shelling out large sums of money for guys to sit on the DL or just plain suck.

By wg

January 29, 2007 01:33 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t make sense to give up on Langerhans given the fact that never got the requisite minor league experience that most younger players get. I know you are probably going to point to Jeff F. and Brian Mc, but they were the exceptions to the rule. Besides, if AJ leaves next year, we will need a potential gold glove out there. If Langerhans’ wrist heals and he gets the at bats, maybe he could go 280 or 285 with 20 plus and 80 plus. Don’t sell him short. He is still young and inexpensive. Renteria batting leadoff would have the same effect as Giles batting leadoff. Leave well enough alone and don’t screw up a good thing. Find a natural leadoff man.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 01:35 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Yes, his BB total is a minor concern, but his career OBP is .348 and his career AVG is .305. If you K under 80 times in over 450 plate appearances while hitting over .300 and slugging over .450, you are a good hitter.

Most teams are smart enough to realize he’s a good hitter but not a great one. They aren’t going to give up what he’s worth to the Braves in ‘07. If you can’t get what the player your trading can provide, why trade him?

By Dusty

January 29, 2007 01:38 PM | Link to this

No matter who we trade, we have three spots on the field that are suspect and we are just using guys who “might” do the job. Johnson is suspect, Thorman is suspect and Wilson is very overrated IMHO. Langerhans has the ability, but might never put it all together. As far as Diaz, last year was great and I never expected it out of the guy, but we have no idea if he is going to do it again. If one of those guys can have a good year I’d be happy. All of that being said, we NEED Andruw, Chipper, and Rentaria to have big years. Not okay years, but big years. If Frenchy can break out and if McCann can have another year like his last, then we will be in good shape. But we need the guys who we are spending the big money on, to have monster years. we are paying them for it.

By snowball's chance

January 29, 2007 01:41 PM | Link to this

A sax player dies and goes to the pearly gates.St Peter says sorry ‘too much partying you have to go to the other place. The elevator doors open and he goes into a huge bar.All the greatest are on stage on a break.He goes over to Charlie Parker and says .Hey this can’t be Hell all the best are playing here.Charlie say’s hey man ‘Karen Carpenter is on drums!

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 01:41 PM | Link to this

On the Drummer note. I just put this guy in and remembered how amazing he is. Maybe it’s the insane guitars or solid bass playing along with him, but Mitch Mitchel is pretty frickin good.
So to update, I’d have Bohnam, Moon, Starkey, Mitchel. The rest are TBD.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 01:44 PM | Link to this

DonC, Langerhans isn’t going to make more than $5 mill in arbitration and be a free agent in a year, for two very big things.

That’s what Giles would’ve made if the Braves kept him, and they couldn’t have signed him for the $3.25 or whatever the Pads are paying because of the way the arbitration scale works for players with their own teams. Only way he’d get such a low salary as he got with San Diego was by becoming a free agent, which happened when Braves non-tendered him.

Apples and oranges, him and Langerhans. Totally separate cases.

ON SUBJECT OF Joy Division/New Order, loved ‘em both, especially early New Order (they got just a little too dance-oriented later). If you want to hear what they could”ve become, get Interpol’s two CDs, both outstanding. And a band called Editors, who sound very similar to Interpol.

By caveman22

January 29, 2007 01:51 PM | Link to this

how do list drummers and not mention Neal Peart of Rush. You had to of had a brain fart on that one!!

By Reality Check

January 29, 2007 01:53 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Shaun, but Byron McMachin is 37 now. Statistics show clearly that his best and fastest days as a drummer are behind him now. Better to go with one of the younger drummers.

Fastest? Your post is so typical of you, Sean: all numbers, no soul.

By Dish

January 29, 2007 01:55 PM | Link to this

Dave Matthews’ music gets ragged on constantly, but Carter Beauford is amazing…you rock/jazz/fusion fans ought to check him out.

By Jake The Snake

January 29, 2007 01:58 PM | Link to this

We’ve missed one drummer:

David Eric Grohl.

Nirvana/Foo Fighters/Queens of the Stone Age…all brilliant performances.

He’s as good as any.

Also, I think it hard to believe that they’re going to give Thorman the everyday job (even vs. lefties).

By The Grinch

January 29, 2007 02:03 PM | Link to this

Had a temporary relapse, but I’m feeling now like I just might make it through today, anyway. Checked with my dad and found out I remembered wrong; he got that Ukulele new when he was 12 ($75 in 1951). So it appears to be a ‘51 Martin type-3 soprano, mahogony w/friction keys. Now, drummers…gotta love Krupa, Bohnham, Paice, Ward, the guy from Dave Brubeck, Densmore, Ginger Baker, Carmine AND Vinnie Appice, Terri Bozzio from Zappa, Nick Mason from Floyd(surprised he hasn’t been mentioned yet), Cozy Powell, Phil Rudd (AC/DC’s ONLY real drummer), etc. BTW, whoever mentioned that Paice’s solo on “The Mule” blows away “Moby Dick,” I don’t know that it blows it away but either one blows away Niel Peart. Check the YouTube link to Peart earlier. The guy’s good, no doubt, but I kept waiting for him to kick it into the next gear after the “warm-up” part of it, and it never came. And since we’ve had no love for metal drummers, in no particular order: Igor Cavalera(Sepultura), Dave Lombardo(Slayer), Scott Travis(With Priest in the early 90’s; third most impressive solo I’ve ever seen live), Nikko McBrain(Iron Maiden), William Riffelin(Ministry), Vinnie Paul(Pantera), Danny Carey(Tool…though Tool’s kinda in between rock and metal the drums make it), Tom Hunting(Exodus), Nick Menza(Megadeth), Gene Holgan(Death), Joey Jordison(Slipknot). Like Drummerdad says, though; if I put down every drummer I liked, this would look like War and Peace. :-) One guitarist that didn’t get mentioned earlier: Gary Rossington from Skynyrd.

By Jack In Macon

January 29, 2007 02:29 PM | Link to this

Dave, about the drummer, I would not agrue with your list; but my personal best was my father. He acquired the nickname “Jelly” at a early age, and everone that knew him, loved him, and called him Jelly. His dance band in the ‘30’s was called “Jelly Jackson and the Jelly Rollers”. Back in those days Auburn Univ. had a dance orchestra called the “Auburn Cavaliers”, and Pop was good enough to earn a schlorship to play the drums. Unforturately, he loaned his drums to a friend one night, and the building burned down along with his drums. WWII came along so he never bought another set, and I never heard him play, but everyone that knew him said he was a great drummer.

About left field, I choose to let it play out, but don’t be suprised to see a trade turn everything on it’s ear.

I have a question for you…do we have the right mix of players to package one of the three outfielders you mentioned, along with a top prospect and a starting pitcher (other than one of our first four starters), to interest Tampa Bay enough to acquire Baldelli? (Mr. Schuerholz, if you’re blog reading, please think about.) Secondly, Dave, would a trade like this make good sense in your opinion?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

January 29, 2007 02:33 PM | Link to this

A few thoughts after catching up on the weekend blogs:

1. Whoever mentioned Jerry Reed in the guitar talks gets a gold star. The Alabama Wild Man can really pick it.

2. Journalist Jimmy Smith asked what is there to hunt in Canada. There are some giant white tails in Canada. Makes Chipper’s Texas bucks look like goats. (Did you know there are over 30 subspecies of white-tailed deer in North America?) Then you always have Canada geese.

3. A.J., Don’t know mcuh about drummers, but I gotta agree that Animal is indeed among the all time greatest.

4. Jake the Snake,….. Dave Grohl….glaring omission, there.

5. Grinch, nice call on Nick Mason. A little Floyd Trivia for y’all here (Lew did you know—) Nick Mason is the only member that was included on every Pink Floyd album. Also, the only time his vocals were ever heard in a PF Song was in “One of These Days”.—The demon-sounding voice that says “One of these days I’m gonna cut you into little pieces.”

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 02:36 PM | Link to this

Interpol is pretty good. Some of the lyrics are a downer. “She’s always calling my bluff. Her stories are boring and stuff.” Bad. But the rhythm section is amazing in that band. They write some fabulous music. One more album and they will have achieved noteworthy status. To me, right now, they are bordering on it… sitting on very good, but lucky (simply because of some of the lyrics, and a few live shows I’ve seen). If they can pull off another album progressing as well as the first to the second, they will have freed themselves from suspect.

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 02:37 PM | Link to this

Am I the only one on this blog who is just dreading the month of February? After football is over and before baseball even gets into Spring Training is without question the worst month in sports…

By sg

January 29, 2007 02:39 PM | Link to this

Love the blog…How about Mitch Mitchell from the Jimi Hendrix Experience???

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 02:39 PM | Link to this

AK Hillbilly: Grohl. Nice call. Forgot about that guy. Bohnam, Moon, Starkey, Mitchel, Grohl. It’s a work in progress.

By David

January 29, 2007 02:41 PM | Link to this

No metallica fans out there? Larz was one of the fastest drummers back in the day.

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 02:48 PM | Link to this

“DonC, Langerhans isn’t going to make more than $5 mill in arbitration and be a free agent in a year, for two very big things.”

“That’s what Giles would’ve made if the Braves kept him, and they couldn’t have signed him for the $3.25 or whatever the Pads are paying because of the way the arbitration scale works for players with their own teams. Only way he’d get such a low salary as he got with San Diego was by becoming a free agent, which happened when Braves non-tendered him.”

But DOB you are missing my point too, I’m looking at this from the position of GM on another team, not from the position of Scheurholz. There is no way you can tell me that Giles with his $5mil salary through arbitration and FA status after 2007 still isn’t more attractive than Langerhans or Diaz. And nobody would even give up an average prospect to get him, let alone something of actual value. Now, if you want to use Langerhans or Diaz in a package deal, well then thats a totally different story… But either one by himself will not fetch diddly poo, that I would bet my salary on…

By SeattleBrave'sFan

January 29, 2007 02:53 PM | Link to this

DOB: Good stuff as always. Can’t argue your list of drummers. Additions for me are Neil Peart (Rush), can’t leave him out; and some newer guys that probably shouldn’t be on the list with all time greats just yet, but who rock would be Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters and Queens of the Stone Age (1 album) and Tim Alexander from Primus.

As far as LF this team can live with sub-par defense in the OF with Andruw and Francoeur. But will need the steady offense, which Langy hasn’t shown yet. Tough call no doubt, but as I write this I lean towards trading Langy, especially with some of the talent on the farm. I’m out….

By Howie from Poughkeepsie

January 29, 2007 02:53 PM | Link to this

JS has the patience of Job. This will all be settled somewhere around mid-March - when the hopes of the hot-stove become the realities of the end of spring training. The Braves will get Baldelli from the Rays, and Salty and others will be in Tampa. JS sees through the ratings of up and coming players, and knows when to move them. Remember Dan Meyer? Bubba Nelson? Jung Bong? Charles Thomas? Bruce Chen? We loved them all, we wept when they were traded, and we moved on. Who besides Adam Wainwright do we REALLY regret losing in a trade recently? If we get Baldelli, do we really care how many reserve outfielders we have and who they are? Baldelli plays left in 2007; then center in 2008. What we save on Druw’s salary will find us a more-than-serviceable left fielder in 2008. Do we really care who our next catcher is in 2008/2009? We got McCann for a few more years. Salty is gone. Let’s all take a breath and wait for the Ides of March. This will all be resolved by then.

By Porkins

January 29, 2007 02:56 PM | Link to this

Jay, you are correct, sir. The best rock drummer ever is Jimmy Chamberlin of The Smashing Pumpkins. They’re playing their first shows since 2000 this summer in Germany. You can’t handle the Pumpkins comeback.

I am on the Diaz train. The guy is a fantastic hitter; great stance, great reach. He’s like a more consistent Francoeur. He isn’t a gross sweater like Langy. But the number one reason to keep Diaz: His Keystone Kops routine in left field. The guy is a comedic genius out there, and mind you, these slapstick moments usually are also great plays. So, yes, keep a guy who is a sleeper of a great hitter and a competent, yet entertaining left-fielder.

And what’s with all the vague comments about not thinking Diaz can repeat his success this year? “I just don’t see Diaz putting up similar numbers.” Where the hell does that come from? There’s no reason to make that sort of assumption. Let the man have a chance before you come up with some random prediction.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 02:57 PM | Link to this

DonC: If I remember correctly, you are a SoCal Native. The Dirtbags season fires up this saturday against the Trojans. The Titans are also taking the field. College ball is starting. And being that it’s SoCal, your chances of seeing a future MLB player are pretty high. I remember watching Jarred Weaver pitch for the Dirtbags. I went to one of his games in his final season. He pitched 6 innings and they took him out. Every out recorded while he was on the mound was a strikeout. It was amazing. He’d either walk them, hit them, or strike them out. I think a few hits were sandwitched in there but it still fabulous. Langoria was fun to watch as well. He should be making it up to the show with the D-Rays this year or next. Some good players from the Dirtbags. And Titans. Trojans, not so much. But the games are always a blast.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 03:00 PM | Link to this

But either one by himself will not fetch diddly poo, that I would bet my salary on

I’d have to know more about this “diddly poo” before I could agree. What’s diddly poo hit for anyways?

By Daybed Wagmoe

January 29, 2007 03:06 PM | Link to this

i know that this is in no way related to this blog, but i thought i’d post it anyway — a comparison of smoltz’s debut (which was as a starter) and chuck james’ first game as a starter:

SMOLTZ (vs. NYM on 7/23/1988) 8.0 IP, 4 H, 2 SO, 1 BB, 1 ER, W

JAMES (vs. TB on 6/25/2006) 8.0 IP, 2 H, 8 SO, 4 BB, 0 ER, W

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 03:09 PM | Link to this

Chamberlin. Crap! My memory is so short on this. He’d be in my list. Bohnam, Moon, Starkey, Mitchel, Grohl, Chamberlin. I’m up to six now. The list has doubled since my first post. Thanks guys.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 03:12 PM | Link to this

And what’s with all the vague comments about not thinking Diaz can repeat his success this year? “I just don’t see Diaz putting up similar numbers.” Where the hell does that come from? There’s no reason to make that sort of assumption. Let the man have a chance before you come up with some random prediction.

Well, Diaz is going to be 29 years old. Players generally peak around 26-27-years-old, so Diaz was probably at his best 2-3 years ago (but the D-Rays and Royals were too dumb to give him a shot).

Diaz obviously had an excellent season last year at 28 in a part-time role. He’ll likely remain a good player, but odds are he’ll drop off a little from his ‘06 performance.

I do agree that he’s a fine player and the Braves shouldn’t trade him for anything less than another fine player.

By A.J.

January 29, 2007 03:12 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I wasn’t saying that we shouldn’t give him a shot just because he is unproven. I was saying that 1. people are really reaching to say that he is the answer to our problems in left (and leadoff), particularly not being a better answer than Diaz and Langerhans. 2. Unless a completely untested prospect is just something special, I do not want to put him into my everyday lineup until he proves something (something which can’t be proved in one month of spring training).

My argument was not that no unproven prospect should be given a chance if there is a serviceable major leaguer. My argument was that even though the Braves “are successful because they are pretty liberal at inserting youngsters into the major league lineup” they don’t believe that this particular youngster is ready, and there is nothing in his stats (and I doubt many of us have seen him play) to make us think that those assumptions are wrong.

So what I’m saying is that, the only reason we can have to insert this unproven, unspectacular (though potentially good) prospect into our everyday lineup (or even our 25 man), especially when we have a glut of players at that position anyway, is that we are not fully realizing the good of what we have compared to the unsurity of a prospect. (A prospect that noone even ranks in our top 10).

Not all changes are good changes. Just because something isn’t perfect does not mean something else will be better. There is no point in changing from two guys who can definitely at least contribute to the major league club, to a guy who has given no indication that he’s ready.

I’m not saying that you supported this Shaun, I’m just saying that that was what I meant in my post.

He will surely start the season in AAA, but a great early season or a really, really amazing spring (or some opportune injuries) could earn him a few chances at the major league level. But really this fixation that several of the posters (by all means not all) have on Blanco, Bohn or even Baldelli—this “lets just try something” strategy—is very short sighted.

(Note: obviously Baldelli is more proven than those guys, but I’m talking in a kind of cost-benefit way with the whatever-it-takes approach many people take to getting him. We don’t HAVE to have him. It would be nice, it is possible, but it’s also not particularly likely now. With a reasonable trade we’d probably be better if we get him, but our whole strategy heading into camp in March cannot be “we only have five months to get Baldelli.” We should plan around concrete things, not hopes.)

By JC FROM UT

January 29, 2007 03:13 PM | Link to this

Diaz is the odd man out. First off Langy is the only one who can backup AJ. Obviously Wilson is going no where since he just signed. Diaz had a good year last year and could get more in return than Langy right now. DOB: Why is it that Aybar is put into the utility role and not the second baseman? If Chipper needs a rest Aybar could still move over and either Prado or Woodward could play 2B. Is it basically Kelly Johnson’s job to lose? And why not Yunel Escobar, does he have any realistic chance of being the starter? As far as Escobar goes is he athletic enough to play center field and could replace AJ if AJ leaves?

By old timer

January 29, 2007 03:17 PM | Link to this

I think they’ll keep all three. Gotta have Langy’s glove. That’s why they got Woodward. If nothing changes via trade, it’s Woodward backing up at short and second and Aybar backing up Chipper. Langerhans pinch hitting is at least as good as a back-up middle infielder pinch hitting. Orr is gone, Prado and Pena are farmed out, though I like them both.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 03:19 PM | Link to this

Reading some of these articles across the nation on baseball. Rox trade Helton to the Sox for a lot of pitching prospects. They also still have an interest in Baldelli. Wonder if this is to set up a second trade… It would end all the speculation about the Braves getting Baldelli.

By Robert

January 29, 2007 03:19 PM | Link to this

There’s lots of great rock drummers. And when you go beyond being a drummer to being a percussionist, there’s Neil Peart

Ringo Starr - as great as the Beatles were, imagine how great they wouldve been with a good drummer.

Ringo was to the Beatles as Bobby Cox is to the Braves - considered great because of the association, but lousy nonetheless

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 03:23 PM | Link to this

A.J.,

Yes, I agree. Actually I don’t think there is a “problem” in left. The Braves have two solid, cheap players who can platoon and produce. I think those who think Langerhans and Diaz aren’t good…well, I’m not sure what they’re looking at. They aren’t all-stars but they are productive and cheap.

By Porkins

January 29, 2007 03:28 PM | Link to this

Shaun, thanks for using actual information to back up the possible Diaz decline in 07. Glad to see an unsmarmy attempt at projecting a player’s season, as opposed to snorting little know-it-alls who seem to actually root for a player to fail rather than succeed.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 03:32 PM | Link to this

Ringo was to The Beatles what Robert is to this blog: Not quite as talented as the rest and always singing a silly song when he gets the chance.

By AJK

January 29, 2007 03:45 PM | Link to this

DOB: You mention trading one of our surplus OFs, but haven’t given any thoughts as to what the Braves would be trading for. Any idea of what they’re after at this point? And what could they really get for Langerhans? Doesn’t Diaz still have minor league options? If so, will that come into play? Thanks!

By MBATL

January 29, 2007 03:46 PM | Link to this

I think we have to keep in mind that ‘07 may be kind a transitional year (I didn’t say ‘rebuilding’, btw).

It’s very possible that in 2008, our starting SS will be Brent Lillibridge, and our starting 2B will be Eric Campbell. Those are both great prospects. I won’t say “can’t miss”, but they seem pretty close.

This would allow us to trade Renteria next year (or at the deadline in ‘07 if God forbid we’re out of it).

And to move K Johnson back to the outfield, or keep him as a backup IF/OF. If we lose AJ, it’s quite possible that Salty could be our future LF (big stick, mediocre defense, probably), Francoeur in CF,and Blanco, KJ, and Brandon Jones (and whoever is left among Langerhans and Diaz) fighting for the RF and backup OF spots. We might also put Salty at 1B, and Thorman to the OF. A lot of options.

If we do trade Langerhans or Diaz this year, we shouldn’t expect a whole lot … hopefully a promising prospect or 2 (in fact we probably wouldn’t even be looking for a major league-ready player - the whole point in trading one of them is that our 25-man roster is overstocked); package one of them with Escobar and one of our surplus of mid-relievers, and you might get a good SP prospect, or fill some other future need.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 03:46 PM | Link to this

Porkins,

People want to complicate things with their own opinions. It’s quite simple to figure out what Diaz is likely to do. He’s a good hitter who is 29. He’s probably not going to be quite as good as he was last season but, barring a disaster, he’s likely to still be pretty good. Position players’ seasons are usually pretty easy to predict, unless they get injured or convicted of a crime or something crazy happens. You just have to know what to look at and take age into account.

By Jim

January 29, 2007 03:52 PM | Link to this

Diaz hit over .360 with bases empty last year, including when he batter lead-off. Not fast, but that’s a good way to start an inning. Langy is replacable, so not a keeper. Wilson has strong power stats. AJones may be gone in a year. Baldelli is still attractive. Diaz (and Langy) could be included in trade to get baldelli or upgrade outfield. Wilson will play some 1B, especially against LHPs. And, he allows BC to pinch hit for 2d catcher. So, what’s to lose? Let Diaz try lead-off position in Spring Training. No down side and no other clearly better candidates. If he can hit well with good OBP as lead-off, that skill will trump Wilson. If Bs get Baldelli, he should get the same chance. How much is it worth to Bs to get Baldelli a year before AJones might leave?

By Humbug

January 29, 2007 03:56 PM | Link to this

After AJ leaves why not Langy in left, Diaz in right, and Jeff in center if nothing better comes up next year? Too many posters are trade-happy. That’s how we have picked up so many cast-off losers in the past.

By Howie from Poughkeepsie

January 29, 2007 04:04 PM | Link to this

Not sure what ‘Humbug’ means by us picking up cast-off losers in the past. Hudson? Drew? Renteria? Trades for these guys were good, at the time they were made. And - I re-iteraye - outside of Adam Wainwright, what did we REALLY lose in these trades?

By akirell

January 29, 2007 04:04 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’ve got a pure baseball question, as opposed to a Braves question for you.

We’ve been hearing all of this talk about Todd Helton possibly being moved to Boston as a way of not following a poor business model of tying up 30% of your payroll to one guy. My question is: If the Rockies organization is putting all of this effort into reassuring their fans that they want Todd to stay in a Rockies uniform until retirement, why can’t they just re-work his contract? Is there some sort of ridiculous player union law that disallows players from dramatically reworking their contract/nullifying it in order to start from scratch. I’m pretty certain there are guys out there like Helton who’d love to stay in the same loyal city for their entire career and are willing to take a serious pay-cut to ensure their term’s length with that club and to help the team possibly win. Is there something I’m missing?

By Lew

January 29, 2007 04:06 PM | Link to this

Unless I’m doing the math all wrong, there’s no reason we can’t keep Diaz AND Langerhans. If we carry 12 pitchers, that leaves thirteen spots. Thorman, KJ, Renteria, Chipper, McCann, Francoeur and Andruw puts it up to 19. Diaz and Langerhans-21. Brayan Pena as backup catcher-22, Craig Wilson-23, Aybar-24, Woodward-25. We lose Orr, send Prado and Blanco to AAA in case of injury. Am I wrong?

By Robert

January 29, 2007 04:17 PM | Link to this

“It’s quite simple to figure out what Diaz is likely to do. He’s a good hitter who is 29”

One true statement followed by one false statement.

Diaz is a journeyman who has a career 4/1 K/BB ratio. It is therefore likely that what he will do is to hit .260 or less.

A 4/1 K/BB hitter who hits a dinger every 40+ at-bats does not, in my book, qualify as a good hitter

Of course, I may be complicating things for Shaun by disagreeing with him (and using logic to do so)

C’est la vie. The boy’ll get over it

By Robert

January 29, 2007 04:22 PM | Link to this

Poor Todd Helton. They not only outlawed his little helper, they then added insult to injury by putting the baseballs in the humidor

By Speaking Of

January 29, 2007 04:24 PM | Link to this

snorting little know-it-alls who seem to actually root for a player to fail rather than succeed

I see Robert has chimed in with his daily root for the Braves Manager to fail. This time is slightly different, he highlighted his lack of musical knowledge with it. Ringo was in fact a very good drummer. Improperly labeled bad by those who don’t know and because John, Paul and George were phenomenal song writers.

By journalist rosalyn smith

January 29, 2007 04:25 PM | Link to this

I must report that Jimma has experienced the good, the bad, and the uglah today. The good being that my Jimma has finalah got rid of those atrocious mule fawts! Jimma used to be presdent and has a big ol boat named aftah him, oh did I say that alreadah? Anyhow, poah Jimma was sitting in the parlah today and felt what he thought was anuthah one of those brutal mule fawts comin on. Well, Jimma cocked his right leg, I can say cocked can’t I? Anyhow, Jimma raised his leg and squeezed off what he thought was a blast from the past, but whoops! My poah Jimma had dirtahd himself. You should have seen the look on my poah Jimma’s face. Oh, the inhumanitah! Jimma ran foah the toilet and left a trail all the way in theyah, and that was the bad and the ugglah! Now Jimma don’t know whethah to release the hounds or puckah up real tight and hold on foah deah life. Poah dumb bastahd!

By The Grinch

January 29, 2007 04:29 PM | Link to this

To whoever mentioned Lars Ulrich earlier, I would’ve mentioned him under metal drummers but he’s such a complete, unmitigated d-bag I couldn’t bring myself to. Also, someone mentioned Tommy Lee from Crue earlier; I saw them with GNR opening in about ‘87 when Tommy started the whole revolving drum kit thing. Believe it or not, Steven Adler from GNR actually played a much better solo(though not as visually exciting). Then he proceeded to get kicked out of the band (GUNS AND ROSES!) for having a drug problem; that’s pretty sad. Shaun, danged if you aren’t starting to get a little salty these days; that’s the second time I’ve seen you check someone recently. I’m proud of you; a pulse beats under the stats after all.

I still think JS is going to pull off another trade before the season starts. We’ve got too many extra and unneccessary pieces that could be packaged for a need, and he signed some more in the off-season knowing that. He wouldn’t have done so if he wasn’t planning on moving some. We don’t need 4 fifth starters, 12 relief pitchers, 6 OF and a half-dozen SS. Something’s gonna happen.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 04:32 PM | Link to this

I’m not ready to write off AJ as leaving after this season. I think he can be kept. We must make him feel like he is wanted. I want him in CF with a tomahawk on his chest. I’m sure everyone else here wants him on the Braves. I refuse to give up hope until he has actually turned his back and officially signed with another team.

By Shaun

January 29, 2007 04:32 PM | Link to this

Robert,

What about a hitter who’s hitting over .300 career with an OBP over .340 and an SLG over .452? I’ad say that’s a good hitter. I would be shocked if Diaz hits under .260. Diaz doesn’t walk much but he also doesn’t K much and he hits the ball hard. He’s kind of a very poor man’s Vlad Guerrerro.

When you bring up K/BB ratio, it doesn’t mean too much if the guy you are talking about has only K’d 73 times in 322 PA and has only walked 17 times but is still hitting over .300 in his career with a .452 slugging percentage.

He may be a “journeyman” but not by choice or because of ability. He’s a journeyman because a couple of organizations were too dumb to give a good hitter a shot.

By Dave

January 29, 2007 04:33 PM | Link to this

Forget the platoon possibilities with Langy/Wilson/Diaz. You just lost significant offense out of your lineup to shore up your bullpen. What good is it having the best bullpen in your league when the Mets have a far superior lineup? The name of the game is to outscore the other team. If JS is seriously thinking about going into this season with what he’s got now and not make a move to get a proven leadoff hitter and a EVERYDAY left fielder; perhaps his water bottle needs to be checked for secret compartments because he is definitely smoking something. Finally, I don’t like Thorman at first either. He is still a year or two away. Give the job to Wilson because I guarantee Thorman is gonna suck bigtime and get sent down anyway.

By Batchamamakoodles

January 29, 2007 04:40 PM | Link to this

Saw Buddy Rich play at South Georgia College in the late ’70s or early ’80s. He was great, but much of the audience was kids who didn’t really understand who they were seeing. So they milled, talked and went in and out, until Buddy told them to sit the hell down. Once they figured out how good the guy was, they enjoyed his show.

By Buck

January 29, 2007 04:42 PM | Link to this

Great list of drummers. I was a little surprised not to see Neal Peart of RUSH on the list at all.

By MBATL

January 29, 2007 04:47 PM | Link to this

*People want to complicate things with their own opinions. *

I enjoy your posts, Shaun, but that has to be the ultimate “sabermetric” comment.

Lew, your roster makes a lot of sense. Only problem I see is that we may need to carry more than just Woodward and Aybar as backup IF … if KJ, Chipper or Edgar go down for a few games (not on the DL, where you could call up a replacement), or you’ve got to pinch-hit using one of these guys in the middle innings and don’t want to use your best bat, then you’re down to one to cover 3B, SS and 2B.

From a bench/hitting standpoint, it’s always more fun to carry a bunch of outfielders… but that may leave us a little thin on the IF.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 04:52 PM | Link to this

akirell: I think the union frowns upon that with utter disdain. Helton could re-work the contract to a lesser average annual salary, but he could only do so by extending the length of the contract keeping the guaranteed portion of salary, just spreading it out. And at his age, that really isn’t an option. He’s set to make $23 in an option year, or in his last year or something ridiculous. But he’ll be 37 or 38 at that point.

By ncscoots

January 29, 2007 04:52 PM | Link to this

Hey, Dave (not you, DOB), name a “proven leadoff hitter” who could actually be a possible trade; Thorman is a “year or two away”, from what? Your choice is to send him back to AAA for two years? Why, because you get better grits in Richmond? Bubba, please.

By Robert

January 29, 2007 05:09 PM | Link to this

Shaun - hitting .300 with a K/BB of over 4 is a fluke result of short term luck

This sort of stuff evens out in the end. Payback (in the form of a .220 season) should prove to be a mofo

Even Alfonso Soriano (whose K/BB isnt quite 4) only once hit .300 - his lifetime .280 with a K/BB of 3.7 to one is unusual. Supported by 3900 at-bats, you can say he is a statistical outlier - the exception to the rule

Matt Diaz aint no Alfonso Soriano.

The Braves should take the first offer of a decent player for Diaz - worst case for us would be break even

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 05:12 PM | Link to this

Lew: That’s about right. But I don’t know how well losing Orr will go. We’ll have an exceptionally slow bench. Orr wasn’t so bad in the field either. His hitting was lack luster though. Plus, he might be out of options, making losing him a total loss. I’d like to see who exactly has options left. I don’t think a package of Orr Diaz or Langerhans is going to get too much in return. I don’t see any articles out there of GMs looking around for these type players.

By bruce

January 29, 2007 05:13 PM | Link to this

For Diaz going forward from last year, be sure you factor in corrected vision… he got contact(s) last spring that made hitting and fielding easier & bbetter for him… so there is good medical reason to expect him to continue to produce rather than treat last year as a one-time high anomaly…

By ernesto

January 29, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

I can see why Boston would want to do the Helton deal but I’m not sure how much sense it makes for the Rockies if they have to take Lowell. Dude makes 9 mil a year or more, so after you’re done paying for what…half of Helton’s salary…and Lowell? Have you really done much otehr than get rid of a fan favorite? If they’re looking to shed they payroll they should dump him on the market and see who’ll take him for a bag of balls and a tuna sandwich. (I doubt he’ll enforce his no trade clause after that slap.)

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 05:19 PM | Link to this

People need to go look at 1995. The Braves were one of the worst offensive teams in the majors. Down there at the bottom of nearly every catagory either in the league or the majors. We lost, from last years line up, a .265 hitter and a guy who was hitting .250 in the first half… once we were out of it, he turned it up. We replaced it with capable guys. We still have spring training to see how capable they will be.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 05:29 PM | Link to this

Bruce-Even factoring in the lenses, Diaz averages an error every 16 games. On a 162 basis, that adds up to 10 errors. Langerhans has only made 2 errors in 268 games. That averages out to ONE error every 162 games. There’s just no comparison. Everyone’s all upset about the defense on the right side of our infield (unjustly so in my opinion). Based on this, can we afford less than excellent defense in left field? You’ve got to go with Langerhans. Give him a chance and he’ll hit just fine. I’d rather have his defense with him hitting .260 than Diaz’s defense with him hitting .280-.300.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 05:40 PM | Link to this

Lew: you’re right, and nevermind the errors _ anyone who’s seen the two of them play more than once knows how much better Langerhans is, not only compared to Diaz but most average outfielders. He’s really strong defensively, way above big league average, fundamentally solid and capable of producing spectacular catches in the gaps and coming in.

But the offense … well, it needs work.

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 05:44 PM | Link to this

Everybody is so worried about Andruw Jones leaving after this season, but what about John Smoltz? I am much more worried about losing him than I am Andruw. And if you really look at it, if we do sign AJ long-term, there is absolutely no way we would be able to afford John Smoltz for 2008 and beyond (Personally I believe Smoltz can pitch at a high level for another 4-5 years). The same thing goes for Andruw Jones, if the Braves sign Smoltz after this year (my guess would be a contract very similar to what Tom Glavine got this year - 1 year $11 or $12 million with a mutual option for 2009) then there is no way they can keep Andruw Jones. And as much as I love Andruw Jones, I also believe he was at the height of his prime in 2005 and 2006. He’s still probably got 2007,8 and maybe even 9 where he is in his “prime”, but it will be on the down side of his prime. I really feel like we are seeing Andruw Jones at his very very best right now (2005,2006, 2007). And what is it they say about great players? It’s always better to get rid of him a year early rather than a year late… His violent swing (which seems to be getting more violent every year) is obviously taking its toll on his back. Then couple that with the beating he takes in CF (crashing into walls, diving catches). And to me it signals an inevitable decline in production and playing time… (Let’s face it, we don’t need 2 Chipper Jones’ on the team come 2009/10/11 - meaning huge price tag for 100 healthy games)…

Now I’m not saying we will be a better team without him, or that I don’t want him to be a Brave in 2008 and beyond. But, if you factor in the Braves budget with the dollar amounts he is going to be asking for, there is no way we can re-sign him.

By RC

January 29, 2007 05:53 PM | Link to this

The factor everyone is ignoring in the Diaz debate is the eye exam he had upon first coming to the Braves. The team eye doctor determined that Diaz had a problem with depth perception, and gave him a special contact that corrects the problem. There is no telling how much of a difference this made throughout the previous years of his career, but based on what he did last year I’d say the contact must have at least some positive affect on his ability to hit.

By bruce

January 29, 2007 05:58 PM | Link to this

Lew: I agree that Langy is clearly superior on defense… he’s a natural and makes it almost look as easy as Andruw does. I was more defending Diaz’s potential to hit as well this year as last. If Andruw was out for injury or rest for any period of time, I would want Langy in center especially running into the gaps. However, I really like Diaz’s bat much more every day left field than Langy’s bat (which hopefully will be much improved over last year with healed injury) and I “feel” (from watching more than stats) that the added value of Diaz’s offense is greater than the added value of Langy’s defense in left. On hustle/effort, I give them both very high ratings.

By RC

January 29, 2007 06:02 PM | Link to this

DonC, As much as I love Smoltz, unless you have a rejuvenation machine there is no way he can pitch for another 4-5 years. I hope he has a great year this season, and if he feels he can remain productive for another year I think the Braves would be well served to offer him a very fair, one-year contract. However, he is a 40-year old power pitcher with a history of injuries. He’s had 4 surguries on his throwing arm. He is an incredibly fierce competitor and has shown more heart than I’ve ever seen on a baseball diamond, but for him to have more than 2 productive years left would be nothing short of a miracle.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 06:02 PM | Link to this

Dave wrote: “What good is it having the best bullpen in your league when the Mets have a far superior lineup?”

This Dave responds: Huh?

By james

January 29, 2007 06:08 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why everyone is so worried about the outfield when we lose Andrew. In 2008 we could have Blanco, Brandon Jones, Franceour from left to right respectivily. In the infield, there is Chipper, possibly Escobar or Lillbridge (with elvis andrus waiting in the wings), Kelly Johnson or Eric Campbell, Scott thorman, and Mcann. In the rotation you have Hudson (who will improve after taking up his offseason workout program that he used in Oakland), James, Hampton, Davies, Matt Harrison, and possibly Jo Jo Reyes (the last two will probably be called up in the september callup). In the bullpen you have gonzalez, soriano, yates, paranto, mcbride, villareal, and possibly stcokman, devine, or cormier.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 06:15 PM | Link to this

I think another move is coming and Diaz or Langerhans will be part of it. Either one of them would have to be in a package deal.

I still say that the Braves should go after Figgins. His OBP isn’t through the roof or anything but its good enough and the fact he can steal bases will be of the utmost benefit to Renteria and Chipper. And unlike Furcal Figgins doesn’t have dillusions that he is a power hitter. I think the Braves could offer Langerhans and Devine to the Angels. Figgins is the odd man out now in LA. He really doesn’t fit into any spot with the youngsters coming up, Hillenbrand arriving, and the emergence of Rob Quinlan.

DOB, do you know if the Braves altered their proposal to the Devil Rays for Baldelli? Do you think the Rays would contemplate a deal if it were Davies, Devine or Yates, and Diaz or Langerhans or sub Escobar for Diaz or Langerhans?

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 06:17 PM | Link to this

Devine… Hope that has a good year. He could sure use one.

I think Smotlz could go on forever. Something about that man that just makes me think he can pull a Clemens-esque 40 year old run. But, I don’t every worry about resigning him because I just assume he will be signed. The idea of Smoltz playing anywhere else is so forgein I don’t even know how to begin thinking of it to approach the worring level. I certainly do hope both come back for years to come. Time will tell.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 06:19 PM | Link to this

DOB-I agree wholeheartedly-Langerhans needs to hit better. I think, however, this will come if he’s allowed to play regularly. Look what it did for LaRoche and, in the past, players like Klesko. You can’t learn to hit everyone unless you get to face everyone. His defense has such a huge upside that I would like to see him get the full-time shot at it. Like I said-If he can hit .265-.285, what a player he would be.

By BUSHWACKER

January 29, 2007 06:19 PM | Link to this

Better keep Langerhans because Andrew will be gone after this season and we need his defense in CF.

By Anthony

January 29, 2007 06:21 PM | Link to this

Neal Peart from Rush and the guy from Dave Matthews Band have got to be in the top ten. Two of the most technically gifted drummers of the last fifty years.

Worry alot about our two “power-spots” (left and 1st). Move Chipper to first and get to work finding a quality third baseman. Move Langerhans, and just let Diaz start the season in left. May not work out but we could always trade for one half of a platoon midseason. It is certainly easier and less expensive to do that then to trade for an everyday player.

By Chris

January 29, 2007 06:27 PM | Link to this

Tony Royster, Jr. Plays locally with Lazyeye, has toured with En Vogue and countless other singers and bands. Look him up and watch some video of the kid go. Freaking amazing. Gives anyone (and I mean that quite literally) a run for his money.

By bruce

January 29, 2007 06:28 PM | Link to this

Have you seen the clean-cut photo of Craig Wilson in Braves cap and jersy? Here is a link I was there to look at Wilson’s stats, in particular to see if I could find out how many and percentage of games he has started in the last year with Pirates & Yanks… He looks familiar in that picture, but can not think who he looks like…

On first impression to me, it seems like the Braves are most impressed with his ability to hit pinch-hit homeruns. More frequent pinch hit home runs would be very exciting, but how important is that trait for a roster spot and is there sufficient evidence at this point in his career to bank more on that for a roster spot than the plusses for keeping Diaz and Langy? Seems like his ability to back-fill (insurance) should Thorman not be hot in spring training is Wilson’s most valuable attribute.

By jb

January 29, 2007 06:30 PM | Link to this

Hey how about Sheila E. or John Blackburn on drums?

By bruce

January 29, 2007 06:44 PM | Link to this

Craig Wilson started 63 games for Pirates and 25 for the Yankees in 2006. Of the 63 Pirate games, 40 at first base, 23 in the outfield. All 25 for Yanks were first base starts.

By DonCoburleone

January 29, 2007 06:45 PM | Link to this

Well, I guess I may have a little more faith in Smoltz than most people, but I truly believe he will be pitching (and still pitching well) when he is 43 or 44. Something about him makes me believe his injury problems are behind him now. I think he knows himself and his body so well at this point in his career that he prevents injury by not straining or trying too much (and he knows exactly what his limits are)… I for one would be much more heart-broken watching John Smoltz pitch for another team than watching Andruw Jones patrolling center for someone else.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 07:02 PM | Link to this

Akirell, as was correctly pointed out by someone else here, the union won’t allow guys to re-work contracts to take serious paycuts (remember when this came up with A-Rod?). Chipper took a big cut from $15 mill to $11 mill, but in process got two vesting option years turned into guaranteed years, which the union doesn’t mind….

JB _ Sheila E definitely the hottest drummer. No question about that. She’s damn good, too. I saw her open for Prince on the incredible Purple Rain tour when I was in college in 1984, when her album “The Glamorous Life” was a hit….

Another great (and great-looking) female drummer is Linda Pitmon of Steve Wynn and the Miracle 3.

By ernesto

January 29, 2007 07:10 PM | Link to this

The girl drummer from the band Trip Shakespeare was not hard to look at and had a funky style.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 07:18 PM | Link to this

Don’t know why this didn’t post earlier, but here goes again:

Grinch, agreed on strong possibility of a trade, though I think at this point it’s probably going to happen during spring training, not before. But we’ll see. Usually teams are pretty set at this point, and wait to see what they’ve got in first weeks of spring to know for sure what they need, in case something pops up from within their own organization to fill a need, etc.

By the way, you mentioned Lars, Tommy Lee, Adler, etc, and revolving drum kits and solos. Funny the timing beceuse last night I watched The Who’s entire Isle Of Wight concert from 1970, which was remastered and now sounds amazing, like it was recorded yesterday. Anyway, my point: Keith Moon. It’s simply impossible to overstate how brilliant, how preternaturally gifted he was, so powerful, so fast. He’s up there laughing, cutting jokes between songs, making faces WHILE he’s pounding away. I mean, he was The Man. Bonzo was/is the only rock drummer that truly stands up alongside him, in my opinion.

Moon was utterly amazing. You can’t take your eyes off him and Townshend at that concert, even while Daltrey’s swinging his mike stand and making a spectacle of himself. It’s Moon and Townshend, and “Ox” Entwistle standing overe there in a skeleton body suit (you know, the white bones painted on black material?) without moving, just those long fingers plucking away on that bass … god, what a band they were. What a freakin’ band.

Awesome DVD to own. Rock ‘n’ roll, defined.

By David O'Brien

January 29, 2007 07:30 PM | Link to this

Don’t know squat about his drummer, but damn if this batch of George Jones songs going into my Ipod right now ain’t awesome _ The Grand Tour, He Stopped Loving Her Today, Why Baby Why, Yesterday’s Wine with Hag, Night Life with Waylon… what tunes. What a voice. Possum rules.

By Timothy J Bradley

January 29, 2007 07:35 PM | Link to this

cozy cole. 1958’s Topsy, Part 2, makes the complete case.Read his history.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 07:57 PM | Link to this

DOB, you can tell me if I am way off base with this. But, I think the Rockies are trying to move Helton for more than financial reasons. I think its to set up another deal. I think they are asking for Delcarmen or Hansen to be part of the deal because they plan on flipping them and another pitcher to the Devil Rays for Baldelli. The Rockies want him as bad as the Braves do.

If Helton stays, I think the Braves should approach the Rockies about Brad Hawpe. They could offer Davies, Salty, and Diaz.

By Dave

January 29, 2007 08:15 PM | Link to this

i doubt the braves are going to give up on davies and trade him after one bad year. (filled with injuries btw) they are making it sound like he is the no.5 guy.

Smoltz Hudson Hampton James Davies Wickman Gonzalez Soriano Villareal McBride Paronto Yates Thats 12, so that would leave 5 players coming off the bench. My guess is they got Woodward and Wilson for a reason so they are going to in. I think Willy Aybar will be the backup 3B. We need a Backup C so Brayan Pena is in. That leaves one left between Diaz,Orr, and Prado. they probably wont have 5 OFs and neither Langy or Diaz can go back to the minors. So one will be traded in my opinion. A good Glove usually doesnt go on Streaks and with this big question, i’d go with the sure thing. You dont know if Diaz will hit .300 but you know langy will provide a good glove.

Trade Diaz.

Lineup 2B Johnson SS Renteria 3B Jones CF Jones C McCann RF Francouer 1B Thorman LF Langerhans/Wilson

We should go for Willy Mo Pena

By Doug

January 29, 2007 08:20 PM | Link to this

I have to voice my total support and throw my hat in with the fellow supporters of Mick Fleetwood. Awesome drummer.

LF … I think the Braves would probably come out alright by platooning Hans and Wilson. It might not be the best situation in baseball, but for the roster they have and the stats of both of these players I don’t think it will prove to be disasterous either.

By CP

January 29, 2007 08:23 PM | Link to this

diaz should be full time in left! he will get better in the field.

By joe brave

January 29, 2007 08:28 PM | Link to this

Okay enough with Baldelli already,this guy IS NOT the second coming of Joe DiMaggio,so please stop with this regurgatory obsession,J.S. will probably stand pat for now and then in the spring deal one or the other for a pitching prospect.on the other hand if I had to wish or conjure up a deal it would be with the Jays for Rios and Rios only!!!!!!!!!!!

By kreedham

January 29, 2007 08:35 PM | Link to this

Many of the obvious choices have been made on the best drummers but I’d like to throw in four I’ve seen often and of all the shows I’ve seen in 30 or so years they are the best.

Honorable Mention: Keith Carlock, currently the drummer for Steely Dan.

2nd) Butch Trucks and Jaimoe-the dual drummers for the Allman Brothers Band. They are one of the few groups with two drummers and pull it off like you wouldn’t believe.

3rd) Stanton Moore. Who you ask? I was told a few years ago at Music Midtown to go see Galactic and watch the drummer. My friend said, “he may be the best you’ll ever see”. I was amazed cause he is the best I’ve ever seen. Galactic plays New Orleans jazz/rock/funk and just played to a sold out Roxy Theater (pictures by Robb Cohen on from page of www.ajc.com. Do your self a favor and check Galactic and Stanton out. www.galacticfunk.com and www.stantonmooore.com.

Oh Yeah! Does anybody remember Sandy Nelson? He was a drummer, in teh 60’s, that released several solo albums featuring of course, himself on drums. Sort of like the Ventures and their guitar albums. Best I remember he was nothing special but was well known at the time.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 08:36 PM | Link to this

Joe Brave, I think Baldelli makes this team a serious World Series contender. I think the same of Rios. I have said all along that Rios’ name should not be forgotten. We could be hearing it a lot soon. If not this year, next.

By MBATL

January 29, 2007 08:58 PM | Link to this

I agree, Dave. We should not give up on Davies. He’s a minor league stud who tried (foolishly) to pitch through injury last year. We don’t have a lot of young starting pitching and we can’t afford to give up on guys with promise.

I also don’t think we should dump Saltalamacchia into a trade, unless it’s for a bigtime talent. (I still say that Salty should be our catcher in ‘08, with McCann moved to 1B, but I guess I’m the only one who sees the genius of that.)

But, ignoring that, Salty has a chance to be a big time hitter, at 1B or LF, and I wouldn’t trade him for a short term fix. We’ll be okay in ‘07, but have a chance to be young and really good in ‘08.

2008 lineup: McCann C Salty 1B Campbell 2B Lillibridge SS (and leadoff) Chipper 3B Francoeur CF Thorman LF Langy/Blanco/K Johnson/Brandon Jones RF

That’s a young lineup with a ton of pop, and low salaries for a few years to come. All you have to worry about is replacing CJ at 3B… Aybar could play the position; maybe Van Pope will be ready; or maybe you have to find a replacement for 3B in 2009.

The future looks bright… we might have to suffer a little in ‘07 to get there, but I still think we have enough to compete with what we have. I really hope we don’t give up Davies or Salty for a few more OPS points in ‘07.

By Doug E

January 29, 2007 09:07 PM | Link to this

If for no other reason Diaz is a Seminole!!!!!!Go Noles!!!!

By MBATL

January 29, 2007 09:22 PM | Link to this

Read on mlb.com that the proposed Helton deal is over… no further discussion.

By joe brave

January 29, 2007 09:27 PM | Link to this

Robert (jib) I’m not aginst your assessment at all,however that trade has been hashed and rehashed onthe blog In the Immortal Forrest Gump’s words a gozillion times and to date continues to have no merit nor warrant any merit,but while I don’t disagree with you I believe in Rios upside a lot more.

By Lew

January 29, 2007 09:32 PM | Link to this

I think that unless he has a great spring, or is traded, Davies will start out at AA this year. He has options left and I don’t think Cormier does.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 09:37 PM | Link to this

You want to know what is depressing. I was sitting here thinking that the Braves could have had Matt Holiday and all it would’ve cost us is Chris Reitsma. Just imagine if that trade had went through. We wouldn’t be discussing LF right now. Man, that is so sad.

So, DOB, what would you do about LF?

By Lew

January 29, 2007 09:46 PM | Link to this

I meant AAA.

By Boom

January 29, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

RYAN FREEL could be had from the Reds everyone. We possibly could have 4 voids in a leadoff man, first base possibly, second base possibly, and left field possibly. RYAN FREEL could fill at least two on those in LF and LEADOFF and fill second if need be and put Wilson in LF. The SPEED, HUSTLE, and ATTITUDE he brings to table is what we terribly lack. He solidifies everything and will let K. Johnson at 2nd and Thorman at 1st develop at their positions while they bat 7th and 8th in the line-up. Johnson and Thorman would be two good hitters at the bottom of the line-up while FREEL plays LF and give us our leadoff hitter. Craig Wilson could backup OF and 1st and FREEL could backup up 2nd.

I say trade them either Langerhans or Diaz and Joey Devine for FREEL. Devine could be their future closer and Langy or Diaz gives them a quality OF in return. Devine is behind Soriano and Gonzalez for a long time now. The Reds need quality arms in the BULLPEN ESPECIALLY. Devine would be a good fit for them. They have B. Phillips at 2nd and young C. Denorfia for RF and Denorfia can also leadoff. I think FREEL could be had. Or trade them Wickman alone and keep Devine for the future being Wicky has only a year or two left anyway. We might be be better off with GONZO/closer, SORIANO/8th, McBride, Villarreal, and others handling the 6th and 7th. I know they would do it for Wicky being they need a closer. Wicky would make them division contenders.

ONE THING ABOUT FREEL—he is an absolute fan favorite in Cincinnati so the price could be a little higher than what I think. ANOTHER THING—HE WOULD BE AN ABSOLUTE FAN FAVORITE IN THE ATL. TOO.

RYAN FREEL IS THE FINAL PIECE IN MY OPINION TO THIS TEAM OF 2007. We would be legitimate playoff contenders and possible World Champions with him. Iam out!!

By akirell

January 29, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

In response to the ongoing union law discussion:

So basically the job of the players union is to make baseball a less competitive sport. Wonderful.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

Well, now that it looks like Todd Helton is staying in Colorado, I say the Braves make a serious play for either Brad Hawpe or even Josh Fogg. I realize Fogg isn’t anything to write home about but he would provide yet another arm which could never hurt. I read a couple of weeks ago that the Rockies are looking to move Fogg. However, Fogg may be too much money. Another option could be Willy Taveras but Taveras is somewhat inconsistent with his hitting.

I wonder if the Rockies would take Salty, Davies, and a prospect for Hawpe?

By ugapip

January 29, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

I think you go with Langerhans in left. The Braves over the years have liked guys that play defense. Although Diaz proved he can play defense, he is not in Langerhans class. I saw him make a play while playing in CF one night at the Ted that would make Andrew proud. I think the Braves are going to make another trade or two before the season starts. Hopefully one of them will be with the Devil Rays. Go Braves!

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Helton deal dead.

So that saga has ended. It looks as though Bonds will sign his contract soon as well.
I’m glad to see Helton stay in Colorado. I like to see the guys stick with their team until the end. He’ll be the Franchise leader for a long time in just about every catagory. I saw a remark on FoxSports or somewhere else that had Helton’s career home and away stats. He hits something like .370 at home and .295 on the road. .295 on the road isn’t bad. Francoeur hit .217 on the road. And .305 at home.
.305 at home. It just now hit me why I was thinking he did so well towards the end of the year. He was at home the majority of the time at the end of the year. The start of the season was all road trips on top of all 6 WBC at bats. No wonder he was in a rutt. We should see some good things out of this guy.

Davies to AAA. I could see this if he looks a little off in Spring. I think Cormier has some options. But who knows. They could have used them all up last year when he went up and down all the time.

By Chipper Jones

January 29, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Please release me, let me go For I can’t play third anymore To waste our lives would be a sin Release me and let me hunt again

I have found I love to hunt, And I never learned to bunt, My oblique hurts, I’m getting old Release me, Homeboy, let me go

(Please release me, let me go) For I can’t play third anymore (To make those errors would be a sin) So release me and let me go huntin’

Please release me, can’t you see You’d be a fool to cling to me To live a lie would bring us pain So release me and let me hunt again (Let me hunt, let me hunt)

By Head Coach

January 29, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Diaz or Langerhans ? Last time I checked the Braves hadn’t named their left fielder. One will be the starter and the other will be a backup outfielder. Johnson 2B , Renteria SS , Chipper 3B , Andruw CF , McCann C , Francoeur RF , Diaz LF and Thorman 1B will be the probable line up. Langerhans LF/CF, Wilson RF/1B , Aybar 2B/3B , Pena C and Woodward 2B/SS/3B/OF are the probable bench. Orr is the odd man out , unfortunately.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

akirell: Whats the worst is, the Players Union Headquarters has a 16 foot tall, solid cold statue of Scott Boras.

By MBATL

January 29, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

I expect that Davies will be the 5th starter, and that Cormier will be either traded on on waivers. But, who knows!? The point about options is not lost on me.

RJIB, Why, exactly, would we want Josh Fogg and his 4.89 era (over 5 the last 2 years)? He’s over 30, and just not that good. Or am I missing something?

By ernesto

January 29, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Freel is a lifetime .270 hitter, how is that your answer at lead off? Baldelli is more like a .300 hitter but only stold 10 bases last year. Would either really be an upgrade over what we have now?

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

It sucks to be the Rockies, huh? Their owner, Monfort, said that they didn’t want to trade Helton necessarily and that it was not a salary dump. Whatever, pal! That is exactly what it was. They are stuck with Helton and that contract. Even if he has a monster season in 2007, which I think he will, the Rockies will be at a distinct disadvantage in any negotiations because they will know that the Rockies just want to dump his salary.

I personally wish there was some way the Braves could get Helton but that just can’t happen with these stupid budget constraints. I still say I would love to have Hawpe or Holliday but the Rockies aren’t going to give away either one I would guess.

By dgd

January 29, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Drummers—Martin Chambers of the Pretenders has to be on the list. Remember that incredible first album? Plus he was the only constant other than Chrissie Hynde in the band. On the outfield—have to keep Langy’s glove. Diaz belongs in the AL as a DH. I am amazed at how so many people casually toss Kyle Davies’ name about in trade possibilities for marginal players. The kid was rushed to the majors in 2005 and was hurt last year. He has the ability to be a front-line starter and SHOULD NOT be traded……One question DOB, reading between the lines, it appears that although the fans loved him, Marcus Giles was not the most beloved player within the Braves’ clubhouse. Was he a bad clubhouse guy?

By Scalp 'em Braves

January 29, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

With apologies to the esteemed journalist, I am having a JJS moment. I like crackers. In fact, I love crackers. Hell, I am a cracker, according to my black friends. Had I grown up in Georgia in the 1940’s, I probably would have been an Atlanta Cracker. But, over the past 3 days, I have encountered a cracker crisis, which has led me to have “cracker phobia” (any suggestions for a more scientific name?). Saturday, while watching my beloved Tigers getting absolutely stomped by the NBA Gainesville Gators, I reached out for a snack of Wheat Thins. Noticed that Rachel Ray’s picture was on the box with some cutesy-wutesy way to dress up what is otherwise a perfectly satisfying cracker on its own. Yesterday, cracking open my first beer of the day, I pulled out the Triscuits, intending to dress them with some delicious cheese before devouring. Again, Rachel Ray on the box, with some stupid recipe of how to turn a perfectly good cracker into some sloppy/fancy snack. Tonight, however, was the piece de’ resistance. I arrived home from work… the wife had started a nice fire to cut the chill from outdoors… homemade Chicken & Dumplings.. and, as a surprise, marshmallows, Hershey’s chocolate bars and graham crackers - SMORES!! Haven’t had one in years. After devouring my meal, I eagerly laced marshmallows onto skewers, donned the oven mitt, and heated them mallows up. Turned to the box of Honeymaids, and what did I see on the box with yet another way to ruin a perfectly good and simple cracker? You guessed it - Rachel Freakin Ray!! Good God, can we get away from this woman? She’s all over Food TV, has a talk show (I hear, thank goodness I have never seen it), has a magazine, and my wife even bought one of her GD Cookbooks. It occurs to me all of the cracker boxes I saw her on were Nabisco. Will she take the company over???? If so, will we have to endure “Ore-O-Rachels”? “Fig Rays”? “Rachel Doone” cookies? I tell you what - I’m gonna become a Keebler-Holic. I can damned sure endure the ridiculous thought of my crunchy treats being baked by elves in a tree trunk than I can that annoying woman controlling everything I eat!! Now, baseball… If it comes down to sending off Ryan or Matt, I must say Buenas Dias, Diaz.

By Reality Check

January 29, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Ringo Starr’s been taking a good bit of crap from some on this blog. While I’m sure he’d be crying all the way to the bank to know how unimpressed some of you are with his skills, I’m here to tell you Ringo is a damn fine drummer. One listen to “Hey Jude” should tell you that — he puts the drive in what is otherwise a pretty staid love tune.

And another thing: Ringo kicks George Carlin’s butt as Mr. Conductor, too!

By Reality Check

January 29, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Hey, DOB, don’t neglect to download “She Thinks I Still Care”!

By Boom

January 29, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Ernesto—absolutely FREEL would be an upgrade because he has proven he can leadoff and can steal 40 bases. We have no other proven leadoff hitters and ABSOLUTELY NO ONE CAPABLE OF STEALING 40 BASES. As far as the .270 average your right but for leadoff off men their ON BASE PERCENTAGE is most important for stealing bases and scoring runs and I can assure you that FREEL’S is VERY HIGH. He not only hits but takes alot of walks and legs out alot of hits. HE FINDS WAYS TO GET ON and the #’s don’t sometimes tell the full story. He is an absolute feisty ball player who will do anything to get on base and do whatever it take to win a game. 100% pure ball player. He is the ATTITUDE we need. He is a little tornado in that he wreaks havoc!!! ALSO, HE WILL COME CHEAPER THAN BALDELLI AND PROBABLY DO MORE FOR THE TEAM IN THAT HE IS THERE TO WIN PERIOD!

By Bryan

January 29, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Ryan Freel is not the answer - not at all - this year will be one of his last years in the majors. He is injury plagued and hes a drunk…

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

MBATL, you are right about Fogg. Don’t need him. But Hawpe would be a very nice addition.

DOB, if money was not an option (or at least that big of one) do you think the Braves would be interested in Helton.

By The Grinch

January 29, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

I posted this earlier but it didn’t go through. I agree, DOB; I think the deal(whatever it is) will go through during ST not just so other teams can see what they need, but also so we can see what who we can afford to get rid of. Also, I really liked “Nothing Shocking” too when it came out; great, innovative alblum. Too bad the one that followed it up had “Been Caught Stealing” on it and was so grossly overplayed it gave a distorted image of the quality of the band. Sound familiar? Also, a great slide guitarist not mentioned earlier: Ry Cooder. Very versatile, and capable of making a great movie soundtrack without accompaniment.

By Scalp 'em Braves

January 29, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Bryan:

Myself and Grinch take great affront, and umbrage, and express outrage over you implying that anyone who is a “drunk” can perform at lest tham hish or hersh bast!! Rite, Grinsh?

By Gil

January 29, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

If money were no object we would just buy the Yankees.

By Joe Smoe

January 29, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

That list with Larry Mullins, Charlie Watts and Ringo Starr? Yet no Neil Pert or Mitch Mitchell?

I would say that your friend needs more drumming lessons, or is not looking at a wider spectrum of music. I could name about 4 speed metal drummers who could do anything Ringo Star ever did but 4 times as fast and 10 x better.

Larry Mullins is in a all time top 10 band, but come on..top 10 drummer, never. My grandmother can play U2 drum solos.

As far as Left Field goes, I am more scared about 2nd and 1st. In left you have AJ to cover most of the gap. Although my wish is for a handful of the bottom of the pile relievers, one of the prospects for shortstop, and pick one of the outfeild fill in’s to all be traded for one decent 2nd baseman, or decent left feilder/future center feilder. I feel one more diffrence maker could make the line up complete.

By Alan

January 29, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the late post, but I’ve just returned from a business trip. Barring a trade (and I think there still may be one for a full-time LF), I think this is the opening-day roster: McCann, B. Pena, Thorman, Wilson, Johnson, Woodward, Renteria, C. Jones, Aybar, Langerhans, Diaz, A. Jones, Francoeur (13 position players - no Orr, no Prado, no T. Pena), and these 11 pitchers: Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James, Davies, Villareal, Yates, McBride, Soriano, Gonzalez, Wickman. That’s 24, which leaves a spot open for either Cormier or Paronto if Cox wants to carry 12 pitchers, which he probably will. IMO, Boyer, Devine, Lerew, Saltalamacchia (sp.), Prado and Escobar all will be at Richmond. Campbell and Lillibridge will be the DP combo at Pearl. Unless more deals happen, and I have a feeling they will.

By flbravesgirl

January 29, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em, I am so glad that I’m not the only one who can’t stand that woman. Her voice drives me up the wall and she is everywhere. I lost any respect I had for her when, on her cooking show one day (I was tuning in for a Paula Deen show following. Now there’s a lady who can cook ), she announced “Now I don’t know how to bake so I’ll just dress up a store-bought pie”. You call yourself a cook, woman?!?

By journalist jimmy smith

January 29, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

only a man who truly loves crackers could go into such a rant. please keep scalp’em in your thoughts and prayers. this next remark is for scalp’em only … try cheez-its and peanut butter (jif creamy), it is a most delicious snack though a little hard to get peanut butter on such a small cracker. another cracker of note (journalist just plain bob will soon be here talking about bob montag) is the ritz cracker with a little port wine cheese. most delicious. is this blog good for a best “cracker snack” list? oh, the humanity! this journalist thinks so.

By Stinky

January 29, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Ritz cracker with snot.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 29, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Bryan, I wouldn’t say that Freel is a drunk. He got a DUI a year or so ago. That doesn’t make him a drunk. That makes him stupid for one night. I do think he would help this team and that he could probably be had for less than what Baldelli would cost. I think the Braves could offer Diaz and Davies or maybe even get away with Cormier for him. Or the Braves could offer Diaz and Paronto or Yates for him. The Reds could use either a starter (Davies) or a bullpen arm (Paronto/Yates). Their outfield is crowded since they are stuck with Josh Hamilton and I hate to say it but Griffey Jr. Freel, I believe, will be a free agent after 2007 so they might as well get some thing for him. Now, the only thing I could see holding them back is that Freel can play so many positions. However, I do think the Reds would most certainly consider it. Not to mention they have Jeff Conine.

By Kentavo

January 29, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, if you like Isle of Wight'' you should check out:The Rolling Stones Rock n’ Roll Circus” where the Who play A Quick One'' and blow everybody else on the bill away - alsoThe Kids Alright” has been remastered with a bonus DVD and if you can dig up the VHS that came out the same time as the Who’s box set, it’s called “The Who: Maximum R&B Live” and it’s got some great Moon-era clips from late 60s-early 70s. Can’t wait for this last one to come out on DVD.

By Scalp 'em Braves

January 29, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

FBG - we have that in common, as well as adoration of Red Velvet Cake, and distaste for Grinch’s perverted side. LOL. If scraping fingernails across a chalkboard bothered me (which it doesn’t - I was the kid in the class that did that and gave everybody the willies), or rubbing styrofoam together to make it squeek (again, don’t bother me), that is what the equivalent of hearing her talk would be. All I do is grab the remote and trun to anyting, instead of her. “How great is that?”

Cannot let the night pass without asking for a silent moment for Barbaro, a true warrior, and one tough damned horse.

By Scalp 'em Braves

January 29, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

JJS:

Your suggestion of Cheez-Its is excellent, for that is a Kellog product, and not subject to a takeover by you-know -who. What a concept - cheese, in a cracker, though I must admit preference for real cheese on a real cracker, and actually having to open my mouth to take it in, as opposed to taking the equivalent of one of those Listerine melt in your mouth tabs. However, if I go with the Chees-Its, should I fear her taking over Skippy? I simply cannot do without Skippy Super Chunk Peanut Butter, the absolute best anywhere.

Best cracker snack (for me, anyway) - Triscuit with smoked Gouda, lightly toasted.

By Dale R

January 29, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Talking about drums specifically, have you ever heard the Big 8 drumline of the Florida State Marching Chiefs? Of course this is not a musical group but they are some pretty bad dudes.

By Boom

January 29, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Yeah Bryan—RYAN FREEL-31 year old pure leadoff hitter who can steal 40 bases and it will be his last year huh. Oh and he is a drunk—did not know you knew everything about his personal life. The fact is—we could get him at a fairly reasonable cost and he would be a quality leadoff hitter and we only need him for 2 to 3 years anyway since your so concerned about how much time he has left. Your statements prove to me how much you know about baseball—-NOT MUCH. Besides that, if you wanna chime in you should at least come up with a better scenario genious. I can think of no one else who would be a better fit than him for a reasonable cost and is a true leadoff hitter. Baldelli would be great but the Devil Rays always want TOO MUCH for their prospects. ENLIGHTEN ME WITH A BETTER IDEA BRYAN SINCE YOU KNOW SO MUCH ABOUT RYAN FREEL!!

By the way—who isn’t injury prone in the major leagues. Darn near everyone is injury prone anymore so why worry about that.

By AdirondackDave

January 29, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Why do I have a feeling that the Rockies “end of negotiations” statement today is a ploy? Wouldn’t be surprised to see another proposal from Boston on Wednesday include a good pitching prospect. Who knows…

I do think it would be hilarious if Boston were to land Helton. He’s past his prime but way better than last years numbers suggest. George would be absolutely livid and the Sox would be favored in AL East. Some moments in baseball are priceless.

Haven’t the foggiest about what will happen in left field. I imagine spring will tell us though. I’d like to see Langy and Diaz both on the roster… Do we really need 7 guys in the pen with 7-8-9 buttoned down. Doubt that Bobby will need more than 3-4 guys from the pen in 75% of the games. Guess he needs 6-7 for the occasional unfortunate blow-out.

By Drew

January 29, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

I agree with Alan’s post of the roster. I think it is a pretty solid assessment. One thing that could change it is player options in the bullpen. This could have an affect on who remains on the roster. I’d think that if the Braves think Boyer is ready, a guy like Cormier, Villareal, or Paronto could be traded or packaged with Diaz.

By TennesseePaul

January 29, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

I think Cox is going to go with 12 pitchers again. 12 pitchers leaves only 5 bench spots. 1 is the back up catcher, 1 is Wilson and 1 is Woodward. That leaves 2 other spots to fight over for Prado, Aybar, Orr, Diaz, and who ever else they bring to camp.
Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, James in the rotation. Davies and Cormier fighting for the 5th spot.
The pen will have Wickman, Soriano, and Gonzalez for sure. Yates, McBride, and Villarreal almost for sure (could be a trade with one of these guys). Leaving 1 spot to be fought over between Boyer, Paranto, and whoever else they bring to spring training. On top of that… Sturtzle is coming back from injury in May… meaning a spot would have to be freed up for him.

That’s a lot of tough decisions. But I must say, so far this Spring is looking leaps and bounds better than last spring when we were begging for certain pitchers to be traded just so they wouldn’t be on the team. It got even worse when we couldn’t even get rid of them and had to rely heavily on them during the season. Absolute nightmare. I started hitting the bottle pretty hard after that. It wasn’t until Mr. Met watched strike three cross the plate that I started cleaning up.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 30, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

AdirondackDave, you could be right about the Rockies. They are making it seem that they are the “tough guys”. But, everyone knows the Red Sox hold all the cards becuase they don’t NEED Helton but the Rockies NEED to get rid of him. You’re also right that the Yankees are crapping a brick rignt now. The acquistion of Helton makes the Red Sox offense almost as good as the Yanks and since the Red Sox already have a better bullpen and rotation they would have to be the favorites. I wouldn’t be surprised to see the ‘ol Yanks all of a sudden have an interest in Helton if it meant keeping him from Boston. But, then again, Cashman seems to be serious about bringing sanity back to that orginization.

By The Grinch

January 30, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em, Bryan’s not as drunk as we ignorant he is. Triscuits and gouda; good call. I have yet to try cheez-its and pb; will do so promptly. I would break out a top ten cracker snack list, but I’ve got to see the doc at 7:30 AM and I’m fasting; my keyboard’s starting to look kind of tasty. Maybe tommorrow.

FBG, I’m not sure who this Rachel Ray person is, but in her defense I must say I find baking a completely different animal than cooking. Not everyone can possess your undeniable talents. :-) Of course, if you have your own show I imagine you ought to be able to do both; that is kinda sad.

By gotigers72

January 30, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

Jai Johnny and Butch Trucks from the Allman Brothers have to be considered Top 10 drummer material. Listen closely to their stuff, especially their album “Live at the Fillmore East”, and you’ll get chills when those drums kick in at separate times. I do agree that Bonham and Moon are the best rock and roll drummers, and it was a kick to watch Moon’s manic style.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 12:45 AM | Link to this

I don’t see how trading Helton would be much of a Salary dump. Lowell is owed a fortune and they would still be paying a good portion of Helton’s salary. If they covered half of it, then they’d have about 8 million a year spent on a guy playing for another team. Another 9 million spent on Lowell. They’d free up some money eventually, but it doesn’t come across as a dump. Especially since they are willing to hold out for more players. I don’t blame them either. A reliever and a guy nearing FA are not worth trading the Franchise man. Helton had a down year, but even that year was solid. He hit over .300 with an 800 OPS .445 OBP last season. .445. That isn’t worth 17 million… well, maybe in today’s stupid market, maybe. But it isn’t like Helton all of the sudden pulled a Murphy and starting struggling to hit .260. Add all of that to the fact that he and the owner are good friends and I think Helton will stick around. At least until some one blows them away. And Lowell doesn’t really blow people away. The Red Sox had to take him in the Marlin trade. Now they are ready to move him. To me it looks more like the Sox are looking to dump a player.

By Tonight on TBS

January 30, 2007 01:05 AM | Link to this

An Inconvenient Truth (2006)

Al Gore, former vice president as well as inventor of both the internet and the science of sabermetrics, presents a compelling case for the alarming phenomenon known as “bench-warming”. Mr. Gore shows that, due to the Atlanta Braves diminishing payroll, by the year 2012, if nothing is done to reverse the trend, the team will only be able to afford a roster consisting solely of utility infielders (i.e. “bench warmers”). Documentary.

By Canuckbravesfan

January 30, 2007 01:09 AM | Link to this

Why in heaven’s name would the Braves want Tanyon freakin’ Sturtze on the roster. He is old and he is so done. As soon as I heard they had signed him and I had a chance to look at his record it made me think of Remlinger and Jordan making the opening day roster last year. WHY OH WHY JS ?? Makes absolutely no sense at all.

By Bryan

January 30, 2007 01:21 AM | Link to this

Boom, first off, capitalizing letters doesn’t help your point about RYAN FREEL.

Second (and 3rd, 4th, and so on) Ryan Freel only hit .271 last year and only scored 67 runs… . and that was for cincy.

Kelly Johnson can beat that - we don’t pay him as much, or give up anything.

Freel is a nice guy, i pick him up once or twice during fantasy baseball, wait till he gets injured or hits a bad streak, and then drop him.

With all the middle infielder prospect the braves have, and with all the outfield options we have, why are we going to trade incredibly valuable pieces of our team for a guy who hit 8 home runs last year… not sure if you noticed, but that is where our team LACKS THE MOST

By Bryan

January 30, 2007 01:21 AM | Link to this

Boom, first off, capitalizing letters doesn’t help your point about RYAN FREEL.

Second (and 3rd, 4th, and so on) Ryan Freel only hit .271 last year and only scored 67 runs… . and that was for cincy.

Kelly Johnson can beat that - we don’t pay him as much, or give up anything.

Freel is a nice guy, i pick him up once or twice during fantasy baseball, wait till he gets injured or hits a bad streak, and then drop him.

With all the middle infielder prospect the braves have, and with all the outfield options we have, why are we going to trade incredibly valuable pieces of our team for a guy who hit 8 home runs last year… not sure if you noticed, but that is where our team LACKS THE MOST

By GermanBravesFan

January 30, 2007 01:22 AM | Link to this

Nice to see this blog is still going! How often can one throw out different left field options… Time to start a new one, DOB! Since you and many others here agree that ,there will be another trade, but not before spring training, the entire discussion is mute (okay, okay… it gives us something to do)!

DOB: back to music… ever heard any of Nils Lofgren’s solo stuff? I think he’s good with the E Street Band, but great solo. I wish he was touring on the West Coast, but all I could find was gigs in Virginia. He doesn’t have a record deal anymore, so he sells his stuff on his website: www.nilslofgren.com

As for drummers: I will throw out Max Weinberg one more time….

By steverino

January 30, 2007 02:04 AM | Link to this

DOB My two cents on drummers: Saw Keith Moon in ‘71 on the Who’s Next tour-the last tour they tore up their instruments. Moon broke the membrane on his bass drum and nailed it to the stage floor, while all hell was breaking loose-still one of my top 5 shows. Astounding! A few years later, in one of the first concerts at the Omni, he bamboozled Jim Gordon( a terrific drummer himself) off his set for the encore of Layla at Clapton’s concert. Sadly, he was so drunk, he couldn’t keep time. Eric (and Townshend) said to heck with it and left the stage before the song was finished. Moon was truly a force of nature(when halfway sober.) In 1986, U2, the Police(their last show) and Peter Gabriel took part in the Amnesty International tour. Brian Adams, the Neville’s and Joan Baez also took part. Sensational show, what with three drummers on the list taking part. Having 7th row, center, center seats helped for sure! Hands down, Manu Katche was the most impressive drummer I’ve ever seen. Not so much for his set,(Copeland’s was bigger)or his backbeat(Mullen’s was stronger) but his intricate poly-rhythmic African beat enabled him to put emphasis on different counts throughout a song. I spent the entire set totally entranced and just stared and focused on him. Fially two drummers I’ve never seen, and are not mentioned, but have enjoyed. Kenny Arnoff, of Cougar’s band is, technically, the best I’ve heard. Scarecrow is a Tour de Force of Rock drumming. He is an equally adept studio drummer, as Michelle Shocked’s Come a Long Way on Arkansas Traveler proves. Finally, an overlooked, but influential, drummer is Hal Blaine. He was the propulsion behind Phil Spector’s wall of sound. Just think of the thunderous, iconic opening to the Ronettes’ Be my Baby and you’ve got a small clue as to why everyone from Watts to Weinberg to Arnoff consider Blaine to be the lode-star of rock drumming and BIG backbeats. Thanks for rekindling the memories, Dave

By Trav

January 30, 2007 02:07 AM | Link to this

Boom…

whats up with the man-crush on Ryan Freel?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 03:38 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing about the Freel obsession. We get it, but it’s a bit out of proportion to the player’s resume at this point….

Steverino, great stuff. So cool to hear someone with such an appreciation of music and particularly that aspect of it. So I guess Wayne’s right about Manu, huh?

One other person, at least, had mentioned drummer in Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound productions. I honestly didn’t know he used one primary guy, but that makes sense. Those records are amazing, and especially considering how long ago Spector came up with that. It woulds till sound amazing if he debuted that sound and production today.

You’re the first, I think to reference albums Scarecrow and Arkansas Traveler _ definitely the latter, which is a great album by a great artist. Michelle Shocked is so underrated (and unknown) by too many people. After you mentioned the Mellencamp album, I started thinking about it and remembered how front-and-center the drumming was on much of it. Strong….

KENTAVO, I’ve got The Kids Are Alright on DVD, too. Yes, amazing stuff. Just amazing….

PORKINS, I don’t think D’Arcy and James Iha are going to be part of the Pumpkins reunion, in which case it’s not really, really a reunion, is it? I mean, Corgan and Chamberlain is a great start and will probably sound great with anybody they get to sit in, but it won’t be the same, I’d imagine….

By the way, new album by the aforementioned Clinic hits stores today, and I’ve read an incredible review of it. Also, there’s a tribute album to The Band coming out today, called Endless Highway. Among those covering their tunes are My Morning Jacket, Widespread Panic, Gomez and Death Cab. How’s that for eclectic.

later

By bergian

January 30, 2007 04:20 AM | Link to this

Interesting topic, drummers! Most people seem to be very opinionated when it comes to drummers. I have heard/read jazz folks who act like Krupa and Rich were not so hot, which I think is pure BS. Early folks in any music format can look less exciting just because those that followed used the pioneers as building blocks. but both were great. Krupa would say Chick Webb(A hunchback African- American, who gave Ella Fitzgerald her start) was the best. Sadly, Chick died at the age of 29.

Different backgrounds for Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich. Krupa was the first Drumming Idol, and was recording in the late 20’s. He took drumming lessons for most of his life as well, always wanted to improve. Buddy Rich was doing Vaudeville at the age of 3 as Traps, the Drum wonder. He NEVER took a lesson. A side note about Buddy Rich. He could sing, I mean really sing! Recorded some tunes with his band in the late 40’s, sounded a bit like Sinatra.

Most jazz fans will mention “modern” jazz drummers(Those from only 50 years ago ; ) as being the best, Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, Max Roach get mentioned the most. I stick more to the early jazz(pre WW2) so don’t know as much about them, but what little I have heard is amazing stuff. Stuff even rock fans could appreciate.

By bergian

January 30, 2007 04:31 AM | Link to this

Well, thank goodness for Youtube! A 1 and 1/2 minute clip of Gene Krupa(And he doesn’t even play for the first 30 seconds) look how tiny his drum kit was! http://youtube.com/watch?v=cHr4XQ9SEcg

Here is a 2 minute clip of Buddy Rich playing with the Tommy Dorsey Band(Ziggy Elman is playing trumpet with him) Notice how fast Buddy plays the last 20 seconds!!!(when the camera is no longer on him) Amazing! There may be better drummers, but IMHO, no one was more exciting! If this one interests you, check out his many Tonight show clips where he really let loose, even in his 60’s http://youtube.com/watch?v=RkPu1rmcPqM

By bergian

January 30, 2007 04:45 AM | Link to this

Now for a few quick clips of some “modern” jazz drummers. Elvin Jones from a 1970 films. Beating the you know what out of those skins! http://youtube.com/watch?v=3wfVhwPnjeQ

Max Roach in an interesting clip(another short one) playing ALL of his drums, the sides, the metal parts, all of them…. http://youtube.com/watch?v=9wnW2KLWE-g

Art Blakey from 1965. http://youtube.com/watch?v=KOc_EwdE7Kk

By OPII

January 30, 2007 08:46 AM | Link to this

I have no idea about drummers. I have no idea what the Braves will do with Left Field. However, I do know these things:

1) Everyone talks about “what we’ll do after the season when Andruw leaves.” What if he is traded before the deadline (as I suspect he will be)? In this case, I think hanging on to both Langerhans and Diaz is a good idea. 2) I hope both McBride and Paronto (sp?) miss the cut. Those guys scare the crap out of me every time they touch the ball. 3) Until the Braves have a true leadoff hitter, I’ll be worried. I realize it makes no sense with Andruw in CF, but I’d love to see Juan Pierre in a Braves uniform someday. 4) If you put a gun to my head over the Langerhans/Diaz question, I think I’d take Diaz. However, I’d have no problem shipping either one of them if the Braves get the right deal.

In John we trust.

By Lew

January 30, 2007 08:56 AM | Link to this

OPll-On your points 1.Andruw leaving is not a done deal, no matter what “everyone” says 2.You’re absolutely wrong on both counts 3.You’re insane 4.Langerhans has much more potential than Diaz as an all around player. If Andruw does leave, you’d better hope we keep Langerhans glove. Now-The humanity! I had a Dr. appt. this morning. It was 5 below when I got in the car. I’m ready for Spring Training. 17 more days. Anyone else going to be at the Braves camp?

By dougp

January 30, 2007 09:10 AM | Link to this

dougp has this response to DougE. Tigers rule, Noles drool.

War Eagle!

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 09:12 AM | Link to this

Shaun - hitting .300 with a K/BB of over 4 is a fluke result of short term luck

This sort of stuff evens out in the end. Payback (in the form of a .220 season) should prove to be a mofo

Even Alfonso Soriano (whose K/BB isnt quite 4) only once hit .300 - his lifetime .280 with a K/BB of 3.7 to one is unusual. Supported by 3900 at-bats, you can say he is a statistical outlier - the exception to the rule

Matt Diaz aint no Alfonso Soriano.

The Braves should take the first offer of a decent player for Diaz - worst case for us would be break even

Robert,

I don’t know about that. This is another perfect example of the misuse of stats.

Diaz has always been a low K, low BB, high average hitter throughout his minor and major league careers. He’s the type of guy who goes up and makes solid contact almost every time up—as I said, kind of a low rate Vlad Guerrero (not Soriano). His worst average in a season was .245, his first year of pro ball. Since then he’s never hit under .270 in a season (when you combine his numbers at all the places he played for whole seasons).

Alfonso Soriano is a totally different type hitter—a high K, average BB guy with a lot of power and an okay AVG.

The BB/K ratio can be deceiving if you aren’t looking at the totals. Soriano and Diaz may have similar BB/K ratios but Soriano usually K’s twice as often and has never been a great hitter for AVG. I’m not saying Diaz is anywhere close to Soriano but Diaz is a lot better hitter than you give him credit for.

Soriano is the type hitter whose production is likely to decline fast in his early to mid 30’s. He doesn’t have great contact ability or a great batting eye to fall back on once his power fades.

Diaz probably hasn’t hit .220 in his life. I’ll go on record and say he won’t be anywhere near that low.

Approach stats as a way to interpret ability not as a way to makes sense of why a “journeyman” had a good season.

The stats say Diaz has always been a great AVG, decent power (2B and HR), low K, low BB hitter. And the reason he was a journeyman is because he didn’t overwhelm in anything but he is pretty good at a lot of things. A couple of organization didn’t give him a chance because he didn’t “look” like a great ballplayer—both statistically and athletically—which is why he gained the journeyman label.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 09:19 AM | Link to this

boom,

Ryan Freel is solid, but his only skill is his out-avoiding/on-base ability. He has virtually no power. He does have speed versatility, which are nice. Freel’s a nice player, but he’s not worth giving up quality players or a big contract.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

January 30, 2007 09:27 AM | Link to this

DOB, How bad did KU end up beating Nebraska lastnight? After Neb. barely scored double-digits in the first half, I got bored with it and turned to Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon on VH1 Classic Albums.

By Mitchie-san

January 30, 2007 09:32 AM | Link to this

Oh my goodness. All this talk about who goes and who stays. Well, IMO I think Diaz will be the one to go. He did his job last year and did well. (except the defense…coulda been better) BC will want to keep Langy for his glove. I dont think he will get very many starts, but he will get into games. There will be someone new in LF. JS still has some moves up his sleeve. Wilson wont be out there very much either. I know JS said Thorman has the job at first, but I bet that as soon as he stumbles a bit, Wilson will move in as the everyday 1st baseman. I have a lot of faith in Thorman, myself.

Anywho, Diaz= gone… Langy= career defensive specialist… Wilson= 1st base insurance policy

By mike

January 30, 2007 09:38 AM | Link to this

Trade Diaz and Langerhans to Metallica for drummer Lars Ulrich and put him in left.

By JAY

January 30, 2007 09:45 AM | Link to this

sheila escavedo (Sheila E.)

By Tyler

January 30, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

many people forget how ryan was coming along at the end of 2005. I can remember a few game winning hits where he worked the count and punched doubles into left-center. I see more potential in ryan then diaz. Diaz has not improved much at outfield… i don’t care what anyone says. At most he is a quality pinch hitter unless we’re playing the Marlins and then you bat him clean up. I trade away diaz for as much as you can get and put ryan out in left. Wilson is a very quality experienced hitter who will prove to be very valuable as the year goes on. I would try to trade diaz and a young infielder for another very quality reliever. The bullpen looks good for now but as we all know things can fall apart very fast and you can never have enough bullpen. Also, what happened to Blaine Boyer. Going into last year he was considered a possibility for closer before he got hurt. I think a healthy Boyer could prove to be a reliable arm in the late innings. I just pray that starting pitching will stay healthy and lives up to potential. In the end I know JS knows what he’s doin and i trust no one more! Go get em JS! GO BRAVES!!

By Porkins

January 30, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Yeah, I doubt that D’Arcy and Iha will be in the band this time around, but if that’s the only hit we have to take, then I’m fine with it. Corgan recorded all the parts himself on their albums, so really the only setback is the visual representation of the four Pumpkins back together on stage. Seven years ago I had to accept that I would never see my favorite band live, but now that the door is open again, I couldn’t be happier.

The new Pumpkins album will be the soundtrack to the season when the Braves recapture the Trophy and Diaz wins the award for Best Comedic Actor.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Diaz has always been a low K, low BB, high average hitter throughout his minor and major league careers. He’s the type of guy who goes up and makes solid contact almost every time up—as I said, kind of a low rate Vlad Guerrero. His worst average in a season was .245, his first year of pro ball. Since then he’s never hit under .270 in a season (when you combine his numbers at all the places he played for whole seasons).

The stats say Diaz has always been a great AVG, decent power (2B and HR), low K, low BB hitter. And the reason he was a journeyman is because he didn’t overwhelm in anything but he is pretty good at a lot of things. A couple of organization didn’t give him a chance because he didn’t “look” like a great ballplayer—both statistically and athletically—which is why he gained the journeyman label.

Diaz is never going to be a good fielder or an all-star-type hitter. He is a good enough hitter to make up for his not-so-good defense and be at least a good platoon to semi-regular player.

By Thrillhouse44

January 30, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Lew, I’ll be at the Braves camp. I’m not sure when, but I can’t wait! Funny response to Juan Pierre, by the way.

By Big Mac

January 30, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

I have wondered why the Braves did not consider Mark Loretta for 2b when we couldn’t get Brian Roberts—he was released from the Red Sox!? My GM trade proposal would be with Milwaukee for Rickie Weeks to play 2b and bat leadoff…I’d send them Diaz, Escobar, Davies and/or Divine. If this is seen as unrealistic, I’d take Ryan Freel from the Reds who is an all out scrapper that can play 2b, LF & leadoff and would not cost as much in return.

By ncscoots

January 30, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

If I see another post about Ryan freakin’ Freel, I think my head will explode. Does this guy have pictures of folks with barnyard animals or something? Sheesh. He’s a utility guy, ferchrissake, he won’t even start for the Reds, and you guys think he could be an impact player in Atlanta? In no known universe does this guy add enough to the team over any of the currently available options to justify ANY kind of high-level trade from the Braves. Get a grip.

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

If Pena, Wilson, Woodward and Aybar are locks to make the team, it comes down to Orr, Ryan and Diaz fighting for two spots.

Wilson, to me, is Diaz with defensive versatility and more pop. It makes no sense to keep them both.

You keep Orr for the same reason you have Wilson…insurance if your projected starter falters. Since 1B and 2BSo keep Ryan and Orr…see if Diaz can fetch a prospect for down the road.

By Maddy

January 30, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

This spring training will be really interesting, and I can’t wait! As for the drummers…I agree on adding Neil Peart, but how about Dave Weckl, Art Blakey and Max Roach….great drummers. Also 2 overlooked - Sebastian de Crom (Jamie Cullum) and Tico Torres (Bon Jovi)

By Jonathon

January 30, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

For everyone not in love with MLB selling out to DirecTV, here’s the link for the Braves’ email contact info. Let them know how you feel. Hopefully, they’ll exert some pressure on the Commissioner’s office and convey that fans are upset about this. I know I am.

http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/help/index.jsp?c_id=atl

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Pena, Wilson, Woodward and Aybar are locks to make the team, so it comes down to Orr, Ryan and Diaz fighting for two spots.

Wilson is Diaz with defensive versatility and more pop. It makes no sense to keep them both. Diaz is expendable.

You keep Orr for the same reason you have Wilson…insurance if your new starter falters (in Johnson’s case, Woodward or Aybar would step in and Orr would take the supersub infielder role).

Since 1B and 2B are unknown quantities, that’s where you need good Plan B alternatives, and the Braves have them.

And if Johnson succeeds wildly, Orr continues to get playing time at 2B, 3B and the OF, plus pinch-running.

Now, leftfield. While Ryan is not a star, he IS an established player; not a project. No need for Diaz to spell him should he crash and burn, because that’s unlikely.

Of course, Wilson CAN’T replace 1B and LF at the same time, so there’s the gamble…is it more likely for Ryan or Thorman to fail?

I’d say Thorman, so you keep Wilson and deal Diaz. Matt’s liability is playing only one position, a real problem with a five-man bench.

Personally, I think Diaz’ ticket got punched the day JS got Wilson.

By journalist rosalyn smith

January 30, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

I must repoat that my Jimma is feeling much bettah now aftah he cleaned himself up and put on a clean payah of drahs. My poah Jimma has been havin a terrabul time latelah what with those ferocious mule fawts, then the backdoah trots, and bein called names because of his new book “Peace or Apartide”. They are sayin that my Jimma is a racist, but I can’t remembah him evah driving fast, why he doesn’t even drive a cawh nowadays. They are sayin that my Jimma was too buddah buddah with that nice boah Arrowfat, but Jimma says that boah had a bad odah about him. Jimma used to be presdent and has a big ol boat named aftah him, oh did I say that alreadah? Anyhow, Jimma is doin much bettah and last nice he even got a little friskah with the first laddah if you know what I mean. Just befoah we went to bed I saw Jimma takin these little blue pills and smiling like a possum. Jimma said they were foah his ailments and that he would feel much bettah in a few minutes. Well, about an houwah lattah I felt something big and hard a rubbin against my back and Jimma said what do you think about that. I said well foah a minute theyah I thought that nice boah Bill Clinton had climbed in the bed with me. Oh, the inhumanitah! Jimma is realah angrah now. That poah dumb bastahd.

By Mitchie-san

January 30, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

As far as drummers go, I thought Animal in Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem was very underrated.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Hillbilly, I actually felt bad for the ‘Huskers (and for me to ever say that, well, it’s gotta be pretty bad). It was 43-8 at one point. Unbelievable. Second half was terrible, you didn’t miss anything. But if you’re going by halves, Nebraska split. They won the second half.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Big Mac,

Loretta signed with Houston as a free agent for $2.5 million; he wasn’t released by the Sox, per se. The Braves wisely stayed away from a 35-year-old secondbaseman asking for over $2 million.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Just got off phone with LaRoche (hey, he’s the first to admit he does things a bit slow, including returning phone calls. to be fair, we missed a few times calling back and forth and I gave up about a week ago).

still wanted to get his thoughts on thorman, on difference of playing for Braves and entering a season with Pirates (he just got back from their sold-out fanfest), etc. I’ll share some of that stuff in the next blog. Just so you know, the trade surprised him because he didn’t even know the offer was still on the table. He was under assumption that the time for a deal had passed and he was coming back to atlanta.

He still thought he was a brave until I talked to him while ago (i’m kidding, just having fun at his expense). Seriously, going to miss that guy’s sense of humor. You’ll have to trust me on this one, but you guys _ and I mean ALL of you _ would have liked him. Most down-to-earth guy on the team. Well, except for maybe McBride, Chuck James and McCann, all about the same in that regard.

By isildurs_bane74

January 30, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Having a crowded position situation like that is a good thing, don’t you think…personally, I agree with you O’brien, Diaz would be the better choice to keep. Now for drummers: As several others have already, so eloquently said and no need to add to their good arguement, a must needs name to be on the list Neil Pert (Rush)..others that got snubbed, but can’t necessarily help since there are so many great percussionists, include Ginger Baker (Cream), Mitch Mitchel (Jimi Hendrix Experience), Lars Ulrich (Metallica), or maybe even Alex Van Halen (Van Halen).

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Also, Big Mac, the Reds aren’t parting with Freel. He’s cheap, good and versatile. Why would they give him up for another player/players who would probably be more expensive and less versatile? They would want a lot. And why would the Braves give up a lot to get a player who not worth as much as they would give up. Doesn’t make sense for either team.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Shaun: Your Diaz stats presentation really help me understand fundamentally why I like Diaz’s bat so much…. Also I like the way his great hustle offsets the look of his less than natural-looking mechanics and non-traditional build for a successful yet sort-of under-dog look as a player. (Did anyone else notice that Baez’s pitching motion and Diaz’a throwing motion are very similar, I first noticed it during BP in Philly from left field stands)

I really like combining doubles and HRs as a measure of power… so many line drives off the wall…

For 2006 (except for KJ) here is the power percentage calculated by adding doubles and HRs then dividing by At-Bats. In other words, Diaz hit a double or home-run in 7.4% of his at-bats (22/297)

Diaz 7.4% (22/297)
Wilson 8.9% (32/359) Langy 7.3% (23/315) LaRoche 14.2% (70/492) Andruw 12.4% (70/565) Chipper 13.1% (54/411) Thorman 12.5% (16/128) Francouer 8.1% (53/651) McCann 13.1% (58/442) Edgar 9.0% (54/598) Giles 7.8% (43/550) Woodward 5.9% (13/222) Johnson 7.2% (21/290) (2005) Aybar 9.0% (22/243) Prado 8.3% (2/24) Orr 2.6% (4/154) B. Pena 7.3% (3/41)

I tried to get these right… but I did not double check. So maybe Craig Wilson has better percentage than others in this stat while pinch hitting….

By bruce

January 30, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

So this is a Drummer stat: doubles (hits off the wall) plus homers (hits off the seats) divided by at bats (hit chances) :) so is the stat a hit? or will you drum me out? :) Thanks, Bruce

By Kentavo

January 30, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Okay, my top drummers:

Keith Moon (when on top of his game, mind-bending in a rock format compared to his peers) Mitch Mitchell (more polished Moon-style) Zak Starkey (Ringo’s son; taught by Moon,now sits in with The Who and Oasis) Neil Peart (very technical, but still impressive - before he discovered electronic pads in the 80s) Jimmy Chamberlin (Smashing Pumpkins - a whirling dervish) Manu Kache ( I concur!) Bill Bruford (early Yes and King Crimson, he is the backbeat king!) Tommy Lee (he gets points for showmanship, and everybody knows who he is, raising the profile of drummers) John Bonham (invented syncopation in rock music - led zep wouldn’t sound the same without him, that’s why they didn’t continue) Carter Beauford (Dave Matthews Band - explosively propulsive) Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers - funky and incredibly sturdy in the time-keeping aspect of a skinsman) Dave Grohl (Nirvana/Foo Fighters - people tend to forget he started out behind the kit, where he definitely knows his way around

By bruce

January 30, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

oops… sorry about format, I obviously do not know how… will test with double enter key between for a couple… Wilson 8.9% (32/359)

Langy 7.3% (23/315)

LaRoche 14.2% (70/492)

Andruw 12.4% (70/565)

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

bruce,

I think slugging percentage works just fine for measuring power (TB/AB). And Diaz has pretty consistently been above .450 for his career in pro baseball.

Diaz is getting a bad rap on this blog for some reason. But as far as production per dollar, I don’t see the Braves doing much better.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Dave: Thanks for the comment about LaRoche, McCann, McBride and Chuck James being down-to-earth and so likeable… brought tears to my eyes… both of my parents were Braves fans, watched nearly all games on TBS… Dad died in 2001 and Mom in 2004… I took them on overnight Amtrak from Lorton Va (Dad refused to fly) three times… they would have loved these guys so much. Mom was a real Javy fan and Dad mostly a Ripkin fan(don’t remember him saying a favorite Brave) Thanks for that thought/memory. I got a chance to bless (and honor) them with the trips and you blessed me with the memory by telling us about the down-to-earth… a trait greatly admired by Mom, Dad and me. I’ll cheer for Adam when I go to Pittsburg this year to see the Braves.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Is there a way to do single space lists?

For 2006 (except for KJ) here is the power percentage calculated by adding doubles and HRs then dividing by At-Bats. In other words, Diaz hit a double or home-run in 7.4% of his at-bats (22/297)

Diaz 7.4% (22/297)

Wilson 8.9% (32/359)

Langy 7.3% (23/315)

LaRoche 14.2% (70/492)

Andruw 12.4% (70/565)

Chipper 13.1% (54/411)

Thorman 12.5% (16/128)

Francouer 8.1% (53/651)

McCann 13.1% (58/442)

Edgar 9.0% (54/598)

Giles 7.8% (43/550)

Woodward 5.9% (13/222)

Johnson 7.2% (21/290) (2005)

Aybar 9.0% (22/243)

Prado 8.3% (2/24)

Orr 2.6% (4/154)

B. Pena 7.3% (3/41)

I tried to get these right… but I did not double check. So maybe Craig Wilson has better percentage than others in this stat while pinch hitting….

By Kieran from Long Island

January 30, 2007 01:02 PM | Link to this

A question on a few of the relivers who were on teh team last year

Kevin Barry, Peter Moylan, and Phil Stockman

Where do they stand within the organization now? is there a chance of them making the team or with the reinforced bullpen are these guys out of the picture?

ALso do you have any idea whether Martin Prado is playing Winter ball in the Carribean?

By bruce

January 30, 2007 01:03 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I agree with you that Diaz is not (til now?) getting his positives portrayed… also, I agree on slugging percentage as a good indicator of power, however the nuance I am trying to convey is that doubles are usually hard hit balls into the gaps or against the wall over the outfielder’s head while triples are usually misplayed or corner hits that roll a long way… also, seems like lots of doubles hits get thrown out trying to stretch to triple. Also… notice that LaRoche comes out on top for the Braves last year in my stat. Maybe I should have put them in descending sequence, but I did not plan on doing so many… just got curious about how others did and went in sequence of how my curiousity prompted me. I was surprised that Francoeur was so low and Edgar as high as it was. And impressed that Thorman is so high even with fewer at bats.

By dougp

January 30, 2007 01:18 PM | Link to this

Does Orr have any options left?

By Brad in MT

January 30, 2007 01:22 PM | Link to this

Enough about Ryan Freel! Reading these blogs would make you think that he is the best player in baseball…he’s nothing more then an average player who wouldn’t do any more for the Braves then Kelly Johnson will.

By Puplwood Smith

January 30, 2007 01:53 PM | Link to this

All of you Freel lovers know this guy is crazy, right? I mean legitimately crazy. Don’t believe me?

“Freel gained some notoriety in August 2006 when The Cincinnati Enquirer reported that Freel talks to an imaginary midget Farney.

“He’s a little guy who lives in my head who talks to me and I talk to him,” said Freel, acting as if he finally crashed into too many walls, ran into too many catchers and dived into too many dugouts. “That little midget in my head said, ‘That was a great catch, Ryan,’ I said, ‘Hey, Farney, I don’t know if that was you who really caught that ball, but that was pretty good if it was.’ Everybody thinks I talk to myself, so I tell ‘em I’m talking to Farney.’ “

DOB, if the Braves were to acquire Freel, would they have to clear 2 roster spots, one for Ryan and one for Farney?

By Steve-O

January 30, 2007 01:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, Ok I try to come on here and just stick to talking about baseball, but I understand in the wee months of winter there is not always much to talk about. I saw that list of drummers and I can’t keep my fingers still. Ginger Baker MUST be on that list. And since this list is “From all-era’s” go ahead and put the best rock drummer of the last 20 years on there….Danny Carey from Tool. If you are not familiar with Tool or Carey go to YouTube, it is a pleasure watching his unique dynamite skills. That list either needs to be expanded or get those two in there.

GO BRAVES!

By TheWyzyrd

January 30, 2007 01:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, Have you talked with anyone about T.J. Bohn? I hear he’s a great athelete. By the way, did you know The Walrus? TheWyz

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 02:00 PM | Link to this

Kieran _ Stockman and Moylan are on the 40-man roster, but Barry was removed after season and will be a non-roster invitee.

As they are on 40-man roster, I’d say decent to good chance we’ll see Stockman and Moylan at some point this season, and Stockman probably has a pretty good shot at earning a spot in spring training.

By flbravesgirl

January 30, 2007 02:14 PM | Link to this

“An imaginary midget”? Oookaay. And people thought LaRoche was a little distracted?

Since we’re wandering all over the map topic-wise… DOB, I was watching the US figure skating championships all weekend and the guy who won the silver in mens, Ryan Bradley, was wearing a Rock Chalk Jayhawk T-shirt in warm-up.

Anyone heard from the Grinch yet?

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 02:20 PM | Link to this

DOUGP: Orr has one option left. Yes, interesting.

On ANOTHER NOTE:

Remember a few months ago when we were talking about Glavine and several folks kept saying he’d only pitch one more year and retire?

I said then that I didn’t believe he’d walk away and leave another $10 mill or so the table in 2008 if he had another season in ‘07 as strong as he had in ‘06.

Well, here’s what he told NY reporters yesterday at an appearance he and others, including Julio, made at a school in the city. When asked about retirement after the 2007 season, Glavine (290 wins) said:

“If I had to guess right now, I think I’m 50-50. Knock on wood, if I stay healthy and I win my 300th game, I think it becomes really hard for me to pitch next year.”

But then he said this: “But if I do that - like last year, if I win 15 games - it’s going to be hard to walk away.”

In other words, he’ll be back in 2008, folks. Count on it.

Fortunately (some would say) his new deal with Mets has an option for 2008, so we probably won’t have to go through the whole Braves flirtation again. Honestly, I swear it not why I’m bringing it up now, to even hint that Braves might be interested in him. I have no reason to believe they would be, nor do I even know if the wording of his Mets deal would reasonably permit it.

Absolutely only reason I’m bringing it up is to point out that I don’t think he’ll retire, and now he’s indicating as much, at least that’s how I interpret it.

“I think that for me right now, I’m focused on this year,” he told NY reporters. “It would take something bad happening or something really, really good happening in order for me to pitch next year. I’ll cross that bridge when I get there, I guess.”

Mark it down: He’ll pitch in 2008, barring injury.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 02:21 PM | Link to this

Brad in MT,

I agree. Ryan Freel is a nice player but not worth what it would take to get him. The Reds are going to ask for more than he’s actually worth because he’s cheap and versatile. He’d be nice to have—but not worth giving up anything to get.

By D Rock in Scotland

January 30, 2007 02:23 PM | Link to this

He may not have Keith Moon’s chops, but for my money, Kurt Dahl of the new pornographers is hands down the greatest drummer around. The dude puts on an amazing show behind his kit. If you ever get a chance to see the new pornographers, try to get up front and watch him do his thing. I was at a festival last spring, and the guy calls out this 19 year old kid john wayne style and goes, “you gettin’ rocked tonight kid, you ok?”. Whipa$$ stuff there.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 02:25 PM | Link to this

Glavine also said this yesterday:

“The toughest thing to do is repeat your division. Not so much win it the first time, but repeat. Because once you’ve won, you’re the team that everybody’s looking at and everybody’s gunning for. We have to be mindful of that.”

By joanna

January 30, 2007 02:26 PM | Link to this

Wayne Glass rocks…hard!

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 02:27 PM | Link to this

And on this day in history, 1994: Deion Sanders played with the Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl XXVIII at Georgia Dome in Atlanta, making him the only athlete to have played in both a Super Bowl and a World Series. In ‘92, he played left field for Braves vs. the Toronto Blue Jays.

By Fact Check

January 30, 2007 02:31 PM | Link to this

Bruce: That’s an interesting way of looking at it. Though I’d include Triples. Yes, they are usually a factor of a bad hop or a long roll. But even still, I think it’s safe to assume that they were hit pretty hard and would amount to a double if no hop or roll were included. They are rarely hit these days so even if you do include them, it won’t change the figures you have all that much.
A more interesting way to look at this is to see what the percentage of hits is an extra base hit. Renteria falls into a high singles hitter with this view. He makes good contact with a lot of singles (73.56% of his hits are singles). He is by far the biggest singles hitter on the team. He has the second lowest percent strike out per plate appearance on the team (12.74%) behind McCann (11.56%). Seeing that only highlights how good he is in the second spot in the order. He has the highest probability of moving the runner over.

By comparison, Thormans breif stint at the pro level had him hitting 53.33% of his hits as extra base hits and struck out in 15.56% of his plate appearances.
LaRoche hit 46.11% of his hits for extra base hits and struck out in 20.78% of his plate appearances.
Thorman’s minor league figures are better than LaRoche’s as well. The overall minor league and major league numbers are very similar, though Thorman strikes out less.

Oh, every other starting regular, including Langerhans hits over 33% of their hits for extra bases. Diaz hits 28%. He has no power. Can’t see him as a DH with no power. Not when there are guys with massive power that can’t play the field lined up to DH.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 02:38 PM | Link to this

Flbravesgirl, you did not see a figure skater wearing a Rock Chalk Jayhawk T-shirt. You must’ve been hallucinating.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 02:40 PM | Link to this

Fascinating stats Bruce. I see where you’re coming from.

DOB: I’m right there with you… Glavine will pitch again in 2008. So will Maddux. To listen to Maddux talk, he’s going to pitch till he’s 50. It’ll be him and Julio setting the record for playing in the old timers game and the real game in the same season.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 02:49 PM | Link to this

Bruce, thanks for the anecdote, regarding the down-to-earth guys I mentioned.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t add that Langerhans, Kelly Johnson and Diaz are all like that, too. Guys you’d never know were pro athletes if you ran into them at Starbucks or a bar or whatever. Just regular guys.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 02:53 PM | Link to this

Who’s checking Fact Check? I think we need an oversight committee.

By Hammy the Brave

January 30, 2007 02:54 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Don’t you think it would make more sense for the Braves to keep Langerhans for his defense, and trade the higher valued and less powerful Diaz? Also, don’t you think the Braves should get more lefty starting and pinchhitting depth? I think they could sign Redmond or Chen to a minorleague contract, as well as Dimitri Young?

By Kieran from Long Island

January 30, 2007 03:23 PM | Link to this

Yea bruce, I love that Doubles and Homeruns stat comparison, very Fascinating. Also Steve-O Mentioned Tool drummer Danny Carey, Phenominal drummer, even if you don’t care for their music its hard to not be mexmorized by teh drumming particularly on the Lateralus Album. Check out the songs Reflection and Disposition. Awesome. I was fortunate to sit right behind his drumset at one of their concerts(his set was off to the side, facing the middle of teh stage, we were in the 100s section right next to the rightside of the stage at Nassau Collesium.) Watching him play that close is ridiculous and the guy’s like a monster too, huge and usually wearing a Shaq jersy.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 03:23 PM | Link to this

Fact Check,

I wouldn’t say Diaz has no power. Sample size is a problem with just looking at last year. Diaz only played in 124 games and only came to the plate 322 times. He averaged over 30 doubles and over 11 homers a season in the minors. He did have 26 extra-base hits in only 124 games with the Braves. So Diaz has decent power. But you’re right in that he probably doesn’t have enough to be an everyday DH.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 03:28 PM | Link to this

Dave, Thanks for the follow-up on our down-to-earth guys… Langy and Diaz are not surprises for me to hear are in that category… and I am very glad to hear that KJ is there too… I remember the game 7/21 here’s the link when Langy pulled one back and they played the superman song and Langy covered his mouth with his glove so people would not see him smile… the taped replay doesn’t show the mouth covering very long, but he was really embarassed by the song. seems like a real classy guy.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 03:31 PM | Link to this

Hammy the Brave,

Langerhans is clearly the better defender but Diaz is clearly the better hitter. I don’t think Diaz would fetch a great prospect. I think the Diaz-Langerhans platoon works fine unless the Braves can get a much better LF. I don’t see that happening but I guess it’s possible.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 03:54 PM | Link to this

Fact Check: great stat on extra bases hits as percentage of hits… yours is much better and more meaningful than where my two efforts at same measure took me while off-line… I’ll share them because the ranking is interesting even though the resultant number is not so meaningful…

I divided total bases by hits which gives an interesting ranking (for who is third on the team)… the descending rank for 2006 for TB/Hits was: Andruw, Adam, Thorman, Chipper, Ward, Francouer, McCann, Pratt, Langy…

Before that I created a “Total Extra Bases ranking” by taking singles out of slugging percentage calculation (dropped singles from Total Bases) before dividing by At-Bats and the descending ranking for 2006 is: Chipper, McCann, Andruw, Adam, Thorman, Ward, Francoeur, Pratt, Langy.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 04:08 PM | Link to this

Payne: I checked Fact Check using the Cube. Diaz has very little power in the majors or minors. I pulled his entire career. 35% of his minor league hits were for extra bases. In the pros it’s 28%. But I’d have to agree that he is not a good candidate for DH. Not when you can have guys like Ortiz, Frank Thomas, Jim Thome, Jason Giambi, Mike Piazza, and so on in that role. Makes no sense to put Diaz there.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 04:14 PM | Link to this

Before that I created a “Total Extra Bases ranking” by taking singles out of slugging percentage calculation (dropped singles from Total Bases) before dividing by At-Bats and the descending ranking for 2006 is: Chipper, McCann, Andruw, Adam, Thorman, Ward, Francoeur, Pratt, Langy.

This is isolated power and was invented by Branch Rickey and Allan Roth during the 1950’s, according to a quick Google search.

By Alan

January 30, 2007 04:15 PM | Link to this

DOB, I also liked your comment about “regular guys.” I remember reading a ChopTalk in early ‘05 - Langerhans and Johnson are on the cover - and it mentioned how close those two guys are. Both Texans. As I recall, they, LaRoche, Orr and McBride all are close friends. All lefties, too, if that means anything (probably not). Until a better solution comes along, I still believe Langy and Diaz will platoon in LF and probably bat 8th. Based on last year’s numbers (even with Langy’s sub-par production), that’s not bad at all. Thorman/Wilson probably will hit 7th, which shouldn’t be bad either. I think the offense will be fine, although a lot depends on KJ in the leadoff spot. That, to me, is a more pressing concern than who’s in left field.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 04:19 PM | Link to this

Langerhans:
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .254 .399 .347 .472 .745 .653 .819 35.33% 22.75%
Minors .265 .414 .355 .486 .769 .679 .841 35.80% 20.75%
Totals .263 .411 .354 .483 .765 .674 .837 35.71% 21.13%

Diaz:
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
.305 .452 .348 .483 .800 .757 .831 28.35% 16.19%
.315 .491 .362 .523 .853 .806 .885 35.30% 14.90%
.313 .486 .360 .518 .846 .799 .878 34.44% 15.06%

Langerhans K’s more frequently, but hits way more consistantly for extra bases than Diaz. As for the meaning of the stats… AVG, SLG and OBP are standard. aSLG is the alternate slugging. I like this one. I include BB and HBP as if they are singles, then calculate. I then add that to OBP to get the aOPS. The APS is the sum of AVG and SLG. I do this because the formulas have a common unit in the denominator. aOPS has a denominator of TPA and APS has AB.

That’s a lot of cut and paste I just did. Gotta love the cube.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 04:21 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Well, I’d say averaging over 30 2B a year is decent power (albeit not much homerun power).

How does that 35 percent compare to other players?

Diaz is definitely a line-drive hitter. I’ll say he’s better suited as a platoon-type player than an everyday player no matter what position he’s playing.

I guess my point is there is nothing wrong with Diaz’s power. It’s not as if he’s got no power. He has enough to be a very valuable semi-regular player.

By Shaun

January 30, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Nice to see some stats from you. And nice to see you think AVG/OBP/SLG are the most meaningful ones.

Actually BB and HBP aren’t included in SLG. SLG is like batting average, it only takes into account hits.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

Oops. Diaz’s levels are in the same order as Langerhans. Majors, Minors, Totals.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 04:28 PM | Link to this

How does that 35 percent compare to other players?

Sheeesh. I’ve got work to do you know! I’ll get back to you on that one.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 04:31 PM | Link to this

Shaun… are you kidding me? I am honored and impressed.. All the words and thoughts in my post were original to me this afternoon… isolated power…my thought was that singles are not “slugging” in my thinking (bunts,texas leaguers) and distort extra base hitting stats, so I took them out. wow.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 04:37 PM | Link to this

Actually BB and HBP aren’t included in SLG. SLG is like batting average, it only takes into account hits

Hence my inclusion of aSLG and aOPS.

I’m a stat guy when I like, but baseball is poetry as well; which is more than just meter and rhyme if you catch my meaning.
Funny though, I started using aSLG and aOPS when you started claiming OPS needed to weight OBP by an arbitrary factor of 2 or 3. Calculating aSLG and aOPS makes more sense.

By The Grinch

January 30, 2007 04:56 PM | Link to this

I’m going to live! Hoo-ray for me! I will now celebrate by getting drunk. :-)

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 05:04 PM | Link to this

Here you go Payne. Now I gotta get to work. DOB will probably post a new blog soon anyway. (By the way Payne, I have no problems with AVG/OBP/SLG. I have problems with Winshares, in case you missed my posts from a few weeks ago.)

Langerhans:
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .254 .399 .347 .472 .745 .653 .819 35.33% 22.75%
Minors .265 .414 .355 .486 .769 .679 .841 35.80% 20.75%
Totals .263 .411 .354 .483 .765 .674 .837 35.71% 21.13%

Diaz:
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .305 .452 .348 .483 .800 .757 .831 28.35% 16.19%
Minors .315 .491 .362 .523 .853 .806 .885 35.30% 14.90%
Totals .313 .486 .360 .518 .846 .799 .878 34.44% 15.06%

Johnson
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .241 .397 .334 .470 .731 .638 .804 34.29% 22.59%
Minors .281 .464 .366 .525 .830 .745 .891 37.38% 19.52%
Totals .276 .456 .362 .519 .818 .732 .881 37.05% 19.89%

Renteria
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .288 .402 .346 .450 .749 .690 .796 26.44% 12.74%
Minors .258 .321 .308 .366 .629 .579 .674 17.38% 15.95%
Totals .282 .385 .338 .432 .724 .667 .771 24.70% 13.40%

Chipper
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .304 .542 .402 .603 .943 .846 1.004 39.61% 13.34%
Minors .312 .485 .379 .532 .864 .797 .910 32.70% 12.21%
Totals .306 .530 .397 .588 .927 .836 .985 38.13% 13.11%

Andruw
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .267 .505 .281 .512 .786 .772 .793 43.51% 20.84%
Minors .302 .543 .355 .575 .899 .846 .931 42.55% 19.64%
Totals .273 .512 .295 .524 .807 .785 .818 43.32% 20.62%

McCann
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .317 .523 .376 .561 .898 .839 .936 35.53% 11.56%
Minors .275 .462 .334 .503 .796 .738 .837 41.95% 14.77%
Totals .290 .484 .349 .524 .833 .775 .874 39.39% 13.59%

Francoeur
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .271 .477 .305 .500 .782 .748 .805 38.21% 19.79%
Minors .282 .478 .330 .510 .808 .761 .840 39.75% 16.97%
Totals .278 .478 .321 .506 .798 .756 .827 39.16% 18.05%

Thorman
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .234 .438 .259 .452 .697 .672 .711 53.33% 15.56%
Minors .276 .452 .342 .499 .794 .728 .841 36.53% 16.67%
Totals .274 .451 .338 .497 .789 .725 .835 37.26% 16.61%

LaRoche
Level AVG SLG OBP aSLG OPS APS aOPS %XH SO/TPA
Majors .274 .504 .337 .544 .841 .778 .881 46.11% 20.78%
Minors .287 .447 .357 .499 .804 .734 .856 33.99% 18.96%
Totals .281 .473 .348 .519 .821 .754 .867 39.23% 19.76%

From this it looks like Diaz’s pro level 28% is not so hot. But it’s better than Renteria.

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

Who was the drummer on Wipe Out? Now that guy was good.

By bruce

January 30, 2007 05:25 PM | Link to this

ok, I really do not want to work on that tax return… so I stopped doing that to spreadsheet the numbers for 2006 Braves:

percentage of hits that are extra base hits: Thorman 53% LaRoche 51% Andruw 47% Chipper 43% Ward 43% McCann 39% Pratt 36% Francoeur 35% Langy 34% Aybar 32%Renteria 32% T.Pena 30% Prado 27% B.Pena 27% Diaz 27% Jordan 24% Orr 21%

there is Thorman again impressive 16 extra base hits in 30 hits

By ernesto

January 30, 2007 05:30 PM | Link to this

I think we’ve got to think strongly about keeping Diaz. We’ve got a line up full of free swingers, and unproven commodities. It would be nice to have a steady .300 guy availabe for the mix (and who knows, maybe he is now that he can see). I’d rather keep him than Orr or Prado. We’ve got Aybar and Woodward to back up the infield and you can always call up someone from R-town if someone gets DLed.

by the way, Johnson’s stats don’t exactly make you jump up and down about the O we’re going to get out of him - then again, McCann improved big time once he got the call up, maybe Kelly will be the same way.

By MGL

January 30, 2007 05:31 PM | Link to this

Grinch, I shall toast to your good news at 6:01 EST!!

By Drew

January 30, 2007 05:36 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, I have a few random questions: 1. Any idea if Brayan Pena is going to be someone’s personnal catcher or is he going to just give McCann random days off? 2. After the LaRoche trade and Wilson signing, do you think JS regrets signing Woodward or do you think he would still sign him today? 3. Same question as above with Sturtze. Do you think JS would still sign him today after the recent developments?

By Drew

January 30, 2007 05:36 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, I have a few random questions: 1. Any idea if Brayan Pena is going to be someone’s personnal catcher or is he going to just give McCann random days off? 2. After the LaRoche trade and Wilson signing, do you think JS regrets signing Woodward or do you think he would still sign him today? 3. Same question as above with Sturtze. Do you think JS would still sign him today after the recent developments?

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2007 05:36 PM | Link to this

And the guy from Santana on “Soul Sacrifice.” He was good too.

By rammerjammer

January 30, 2007 05:39 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, and the drummer on “Radar Love.”

By Richard Cory

January 30, 2007 06:23 PM | Link to this

rammerjammer Wipe Out has been covered by so many, it would be impossible to know , which rendition you heard. The original was done by the ‘Surfaris’. It’s my favorite, but the Ventures also did a good version, although they featured the guitars more prominently.

By Wayne in UT

January 30, 2007 07:10 PM | Link to this

rammer Does Golden Earring still perform? Radar Love is one of my all time favorites.

By Wayne in UT

January 30, 2007 07:11 PM | Link to this

When is the new blog hitting cyberspace?

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 30, 2007 07:15 PM | Link to this

Honestly, if I had to choose between Diaz and Langerhans, I would choose Diaz. While I don’t think he will be as good of a hitter as last year, he is a good hitter and a good guy to have off the bench. Langerhans is excellent defensively but as someone said good defensive outfielders are a dime a dozen. Good offensive outfielders aren’t. I would prefer to keep both but one has to go so the team can fill a need. Now, with saying all that, I think Diaz will get traded. Largely, for the reason I just stated. Good or great defensive outfielders are easier to find than good offensive ones are.

Best case scenario for spring training would be for Diaz, Orr, and Escobar to have torrid hot streaks the first two weeks of spring games. Also for Cormier, Davies, Paronto, Yates, Devine, and Barry to pitch very well if not lights out the first two weeks of spring. That way the Braves have some leverage in a potential trade and these guys (who are all tradeable) to become more attractive to other teams. I really do think if Davies and Cormier pitch really well this spring along with Devine that a team like the Devil Rays or Blue Jays will become more receptive to listening to a deal.

DOB, are the Braves going to release a list of non-roster invitees to spring training. Spring training is 15 days away. Can you believe it?!

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 07:36 PM | Link to this

Drew asked: 1. Any idea if Brayan Pena is going to be someone�s personnal catcher or is he going to just give McCann random days off?

Not sure, but I think it’ll be play it by ear, rather than set days.

1. After the LaRoche trade and Wilson signing, do you think JS regrets signing Woodward or do you think he would still sign him today?

No, and yes (they’d sign him today. One has nothing to do with other)

1. Same question as above with Sturtze. Do you think JS would still sign him today after the recent developments?

Don’t know, but I do know he’d never say anything but that he would have signed him anyhow. Sturtze was, and is, penciled in for entirely different role than the two setup guys they acquired later, so again, his signing would seem to have nothing to do with the others.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 07:42 PM | Link to this

Saw “The Last King of Scotland” and cannot state how great Forest Whittaker is. My new choice for Best Actor Oscar (it’s a great movie, definitely one of best of year, though The Departed still my favorite of 2006).

By Drew

January 30, 2007 08:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB. That is about what I figured on all of them except maybe Sturtze. Acquiring the two setup guys took some pressure off guys like Villareal and Yates and gave us a large surplus of arms, so I think he probably wouldn’t have signed a guy who would be out the first month or two. He couldn’t have known he would get Soriano that cheap though, and I don’t think the LaRoche decisions were very serious at that point. Can’t blame him.

One last question: Does Aybar have the ability to fill in at shortstop, or only 2nd and 3rd? I don’t think he plays short which was the main reason for the Woodward signing, correct?

By Head Coach

January 30, 2007 08:09 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand this debate over the idea of the Braves keeping Diaz or Langerhans. The Braves will keep both , one will the the starter and the other will come off the bench unless their is another trade in the works. Wilson was signed to be the back up at 1B. T.J Bohn has to stay on the 40 man roster but he can be sent to Richmond , ditto for Blanco. Kelly Johnson can play the outfield in a pinch and is a strong defensive player like Langerhans. Woodward

By MBATL

January 30, 2007 08:10 PM | Link to this

Is it possible the Braves will put Langerhans or Diaz on waivers, hoping that no one picks them up; if no one did, then we could send him to the minors. If someone claimed them, we could negotiate a trade, or failing that pull them back (and that would force us to do something else).

If a team did claim whoever we put on waivers, and we let them go, that team would have to keep them on the 25-man roster (or just eat their contract), right?

Not sure I understand this right, but if so, we might just get one of them (Langerhans, probably) through waivers. Or we might force a favorable trade with the team that claimed him.

Given that both are somewhat “one dimensional” and are out of options, we might get one through waivers… no?

Not sure I understand this correctly, so if it’s a pointless idea, sorry. Just trying to find some roster flexibility.

By David O'Brien

January 30, 2007 08:15 PM | Link to this

Head Coach, Wilson wasn’t signed just to back up first base, as you stated. He was signed _ and Schuerholz made this clear the day they signed him, becaused I asked specifically _ that they signed him to play left field, first base and pinch-hit. All three roles….

Drew, Aybar could play SS in a pinch, but supposedly isn’t nearly as good there as 2B and 3B, and Braves did get Woodward to be the primary backup at SS, along with being able to play several other roles in needed.

By Robert

January 30, 2007 08:22 PM | Link to this

The single most important stat for a hitter if OBP - out or not out - everything else follows

Now for today’s “Name that tune”

“Every night we’d steal away and have a rendevous. Turn the radio up. And do what lovers do”

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 30, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

I have to chime in on the the debate that was going on earlier. I love numbers but I think there is too much emphasis put on power. I don’t think every guy in the lineup needs to hit 20 or more homeruns. In fact, I think lineups that feature such things are unbalanced and in the end unproductive. I could really care less that Diaz doesn’t have that much power. He hits in the 7th and 8th spots in the lineup. He doesn’t need to hit for power but for average and he does that very well. As far as I’m concerned the only guys in the lineup that need to be big power guys are the 3-6 spots. Now, I do believe your #2 hitter needs to be a doubles hitter but not necessarily a homerun hitter. Your leadoff hitter shouldn’t have power like Ryan Howard. Even Soriano isn’t as good in the leadoff role as he is in the middle of the lineup.

By Robert

January 30, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

The good thing about this name that tune is that it will NOT come up in a google search. - so ya cant cheat

By Robert

January 30, 2007 08:42 PM | Link to this

Answer will be given in the morning. Curious to see if anyone gets it.

Clue - this should be a no-brainer for anyone from Syracuse New York

By MBATL

January 30, 2007 08:51 PM | Link to this

ANYTHING will come up in a google search if you know how to do it. It’s easy, Robert, but I won’t blow your cover just yet unless you want me to.

By Head Coach

January 30, 2007 08:59 PM | Link to this

DOB ,I got it . but I’m not buying it. Wilson at 1B and pinch hitting , I can see his value for those two positions. Langerhans plays all three outfield positions equally well. Diaz has mostly played left field and at DH. We all know he cant DH in the N.L. Wilson is primarily a first baseman and right fielder. Diaz and Wilson are both right handers and Diaz is clearly the better hitter , although Wilson has a little more pop in his bat. Maybe JS just mentioned Wilson as a left fielder in order to stir the pot and motivate a few people come time for spring training. I think he has succeeded. At any rate , barring a trade the Braves will keep both Diaz and Langerhans. For a five man bench of Langerhans CF-RF-LF , Wilson 1B-RF-LF , Aybar 3B-2B-SS , Pena C and Woodward(everywhere but catcher) . That is a ton of versatility for five guys.

By MBATL

January 30, 2007 09:01 PM | Link to this

Robert, I should add… I’m not from Syracuse; went there on business once and ran into none other than Mark Lemke in the airport - it was during the strike in ‘94. He was very friendly to an Atlantan, and a Braves fan, and almost had tears in his eyes talking about his desire to get back on the field! I was really impressed with his love of the game. Other than that, I don’t even remember much about Syracuse except the trade show I was attending.

Anyway, I did cheat…

By ronp

January 30, 2007 09:04 PM | Link to this

At first I thought the Braves weren’t spending enough on talent until I checked it out.

I found they are spending about $92 million on payroll…this ranks them 9th in baseball about 2 million below the Cubs and even with the Astos, some $2 million above the Giants.

Interestingly, the first four teams the Yankees ($198 million), Red Sox ($120 million), Angels ($103 million) and the White Sox ($102 million)are all American League.

Then come the Mets ($101 million), Dodgers ($99 million), Cubs ($94 million) and then both Braves and Astros at $92 million.

On the other end of the spectrum, we find the Marlins spending a paltry $14 million. Above them are Tampa Bay $35 million, Rockies $41 million and Pirates $46 million.

Therefore, it’s obvious the Braves are currently spending a reasonable amount on payroll in order to secure talent.

There shall always remain a delicate balance between budget, fielding a competitive team and either making a profit or building equity in the franchise.

In this regard, I have to give JS high marks since he shall put a competitive team on the field this year without risking the franchise through over spending.

Who knows, they might even win the division?

By Ace

January 30, 2007 09:35 PM | Link to this

Could any of the infield guys (Aybar, Orr) cut it in the outfield in a pinch? I ask b/c that might effect the makeup of the final roster. If one of them could, then that makes the OFs in question even more expendable. My gut instinct is to take Langy over Diaz, but I like both. What would they trade one of those guys for anyway?

I like Orr but I think he’s the second Tony Graffanino - a scrappy utility guy who will never find an everyday role but will carve out a nice career in other places. I like his effort and versatility.

By Stinky

January 30, 2007 09:37 PM | Link to this

Welcome to Braveland ronp. Someone will explain your ignorance to you in short order. Its not your fault you don’t understand. Its the overlords at TWX who have you misinformed.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

January 30, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’m curious about something. I know last offseason when the Braves were talking about acquiring Baez from the Devil Rays that Joey Gaithright’s name came up. I read that it was the Braves who wanted him included in the package. Of course, we all know the deal didn’t go through because they Rays, as always, were greedy and demanded McCann. What did the Braves think of Gaithright then? What about now? I just read on Baseball Prospectus that several GMs have asked the Royals about Gaithright and Will Carroll basically dissed the notion. Would Gaithright be the kind of player that could be the leadoff hitter and a productive player for this team. Lord knows the Royals need pitchig and guys like Davies and Paronto would most certainly intrigue them. Would a guy like Emil Brown do the trick even if its for this season. The last two years in KC he has hit .286 and .287 respectively with OBP of .349 and .358. He also hit 17HR and 87 RBI in 2005 and 15 HR 81 RBI in 2006. I believe he is a free agent after 2007. Just wondering.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

Robert(JIB): I see your point and agree. It’s sort of the inverse of what Crash told Nuke. “Don’t try to [hit] every [ball] out. It’s fascist.”
I’d say the fact that Langerhans is a lefty is a positive for him. But it’s also a handicap. Cox never lets the young lefties play without a platoon. I don’t know why. Everytime they call one up, he gets platooned. But he does like having the Left on the Bench.

By Choppinmama

January 30, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for letting us know about your chat with LaRoche. From what I’ve read and heard, looks like the Pittsburg fans are going to welcome him with open arms. My son was flying home from a conference out west, and spotted Adam and his wife waiting for a flight out of Kansas City after the McBride wedding. Adam was bearded and wearing a camo hat, but my son recognized him and spoke with them both. They couldn’t have been more friendly, and my son said Adam was genuinely surprised at being recognized.

Too bad Bobby didn’t let him throw a couple of pitches during last season. He couldn’t have done any worse than some of our regulars.

By shc77

January 30, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

DOB Bobby Cox loves defensive guys, even if they can’t hit (e.g. Gregg Olson, Rafael Belliard, Sid Bream, Mark Lemke, et al). Barring injuries, an offer too good to pass up, or an extraordinary spring from someone else, I don’t see Langerhans being traded, especially with AJ’s contract situation. By the way, anyway else notice how Langerhans’ swing reminds one of a lumberjack?

By TheSouthernJackAss

January 30, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

Well ronp__How many of those other big spenders are using nearly 70% of their entire budget on just 4 players??…you A$ScLOWN!

By Choppinmama

January 30, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

Rosalyn deah:

Just thinkin’ about you as I pack my valise for anothah lovely 400 Club Dinnah this weekend. Remember when yoah Jimmah was the big “Mr Baseball” winnah? Wheah have you placed that lovely crystal doo-dad in yoah lovely Plains home?

I will be lookin’ foah you and Jimmah on openin’ day at Teddy’s baseball field, but I am sorely troubled that our openin’ day falls on Good Friday this yeah. What does yoah Jimmah and his Sunday school class have to say about that dilemmah?

Please tell that tall fella, Terry McGuirk when you see him down theah on the front row to hurry and get this dad-blasted ballclub sale over and done with so we can concentrate on learnin’ all our new boys names and numbahs to go with their cute, young faces. No more frettin’ over tax sheltahs, minimum wages and budgets. My head just swims thinkin’ about numbahs.

Be suah to tell your nice young men with the curly wires in theah eahs to watch out foah all those foul balls down theah close to the field. Don’t you and Jimmah think it would be a bettah ideah to have them sit in front of you so the ricochets off them won’t hurt you and Jimmah so much? Or mebbeh those nice young ballboys sittin’ in front of you will be helpin’ you out?

Have Jimmah to go down to the Piggly Wiggly and get a big box of Gas X. you will both enjoah the relief. Night-night deah.

By TennesseePaul

January 30, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Cheer Up Everyone

Check this out

GO BRAVES!!

By The Grinch

January 30, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

Robert, just checkin’ back in. I haven’t Googled anything, and I don’t really know the words, but I’ll take a wild stab. “Shakin’” by Eddie Money? I don’t know if he was from Syracuse or not, but I’m pretty sure about New York.

By flbravesgirl

January 30, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

Grinch, I suspect that getting drunk is probably not what your doctors had in mind.

DOB, I can assure you that I was not hallucinating. Terry Gannon even commented on the shirt.

By Oregon_Braves

January 31, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

Dave - Has Pan’s Labyrinth opened in Atlanta yet? Don’t make a best-of list until you see it. Phenomenal.

By The Grinch

January 31, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

FBG, I haven’t had a a drop since the Saturday before last; I was just kidding. I’m still recouperating. I doubt I’ll get drunk again ‘till the Superbowl this Sunday…if I didn’t then my system would truly shut down for good. I’ve been a good little Grinch. It’s making me grumpy. :-)

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2007 01:08 AM | Link to this

Damn. For the right to rent JD Drew for one year, the Braves gave up the guy who made Beltran’s knees buckle in the NLCS. Great.

By chuck

January 31, 2007 01:12 AM | Link to this

A drummer list without Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater? No way!

And what about Jeff Campinetti, Satriani’s drummer. Get with it.

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 01:29 AM | Link to this

Najeh It is hard to look at a trade years later and say, why did we do that. When they make a trade, the Braves I am certain weigh the pros and cons to such a trade. What do we think about the Wickman trade today? It was a great move. What if that catcher dude comes up in 3 or 4 years and becomes an allstar catcher for the Indians? Do we say it was a bad trade? No, we say we needed a closer more in ‘06 than the possibility of an allstar catcher in 2010.

It frustrates me that we are too quick to look to the ones that we traded away that were successful and not quick enough to look to the good deals we have made. We gave up Charles Thomas, Juan Cruz and Dan Meyer for Tim Hudson. While some might say that Hudson has disappointed so far, what have the others done? Maybe in a couple of years Dan Meyers becomes a serviceable starter. Maybe not.

We should be careful about second guessing every move that has gone bad, while not giving credit for the moves that have gone extremely well.

Did I make my case? What do you think? In 2004, what was Wainwright doing for the Cards? Drew was helping the Braves to another division championship. (by the way, a couple of years ago, one of Wainwright’s high school buddies and his new wife lived in my basement in Utah for a few months.)

By ernesto

January 31, 2007 01:35 AM | Link to this

Losing Wainwright for one year of Drew sucks in hindsight, but I dont’ think anyone would say it was a stupid move. It was a gamble. JS did pretty well (I dont’ think we win teh div. that year without Drew), but Jockity is no idiot either - and you’ve got to tip your cap to him on this one. On the upside they only got one decent year of out of Marquis.

By ncscoots

January 31, 2007 06:41 AM | Link to this

TPaul, “I’m a stat guy when I like, but baseball is poetry as well; which is more than just meter and rhyme if you catch my meaning.” is wurlitzer-worthy. Just wish I’d said it first, d**n your eyes, LOL!

Guess I’m missing the point on the LF situation. Langy and Diaz hit about .280 with about a .360 OBP last year combined. No one mentioned so far as a possible replacement (that I remember, anyway) is significantly better than that. It’s not as if those two guys were a black hole offensively. If the Braves break camp with the same platoon this year, I don’t think they are exactly doomed.

By Richard Cory

January 31, 2007 08:00 AM | Link to this

Anybody heard from Carolina Lady lately? Haven’t seen her posting for some time. Hope her and her mom are doing well.

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 08:46 AM | Link to this

I’m a stat guy when I like, but baseball is poetry as well; which is more than just meter and rhyme if you catch my meaning. Funny though, I started using aSLG and aOPS when you started claiming OPS needed to weight OBP by an arbitrary factor of 2 or 3. Calculating aSLG and aOPS makes more sense.

Well, I understand those sentiments. But I think looking at just regular OBP and SLG (and taking ballpark and league into account) is fine. That is every aspect of reaching base and advancing (besides base-stealing or advancing via another batter). And as long as you have in your mind that OBP is more important than SLG. Avoiding outs is more important than gaining bases, because outs are more valuable.

I like your baseball is poetry comment. I would describe it like this: If baseball is reality, numbers are language. Baseball is one of the few places where numbers “behave” like words. Numbers aren’t just symbols or quantities of something in baseball; they actually have a lot of meaning attached to them and can be used a great deal to interpret baseball reality much like words can be used to interpret the real world.

…okay, now that I’ve waxed poetic about statstics…

By Arkansas Hillbilly

January 31, 2007 08:50 AM | Link to this

Richard Cory, I was wondering the same thing. Maybe she’s really Adam LaRoche. Somebody check the Pirates Blog. LOL ; )

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 08:57 AM | Link to this

Robert(Justice Is The Best),

I understand where you’re coming from—avoiding outs is more important than power, I agree there and the evidence backs us up on that. (Or from a run-prevention perspective getting outs quickly).

But also the teams that score the most runs are usually the most powerful—the teams that avoid outs best and the teams that earn a lot of bases at once. This is why OPS has become so popular because it combines the aspects of avoiding outs and gaining bases.

By Lew

January 31, 2007 09:11 AM | Link to this

Tickets wnet on sale for the Red Sox games this Saturday, with one of the most screwed up buying systems I’ve ever seen. You log on line and then wait until they tell you if you’re allowed to buy tickets. ASpparently over 34,000 people went on line and only 900 got to buy tickets. The Braves sold out quickly. No Braves at Fenway for me this year-unless a certain season ticket holder will break down and sell the $105 tickets. A possibility exists. What a totally ridiculous system. All that and I’m about to lose my Extra Innings package. I refuse to switch to Direct TV. I’m still a baseball fan, though. I’m going to KC this summer to see the DRays play the Royals. Now that’s baseball loyalty.

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 09:19 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Increasing demand—that’s what it’s all about. Baseball owners are finally figuring that out with smaller stadiums or closing off seats.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

January 31, 2007 09:25 AM | Link to this

Lew,

D-Rays and Royals??? Man I don’t wish that upon anybody. Two thumbs up for remaining a true fan of the game.

By Lew

January 31, 2007 09:53 AM | Link to this

It’s all about the baseball, Hillbilly. Or at least it’s supposed to be. Sometimes I think we lose sight of that fact.

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Do the Braves normally go with 11 or 12 pitchers? According to my count, keeping Aybar, Wilson, Woodward, Langerhans, Diaz and BPena all on the roster would account for 13 players. That would leave 12 spots for pitchers. So there is plenty of room to keep both Diaz and Langerhans, unless Blanco is a lot more impressive than people think he’ll be.

I still think Wilson is going to platoon with Thorman and get more playing time at first than left.

I don’t know about the LF situation, now that we’ve dug deep into the numbers. I think Diaz is probably the better option to get most of the PT while Langerhans becomes the fourth OF and a “Sunday starter” in LF. Langerhans is an okay hitter but he’s not quite as good as I thought before I dug deeper into his minor league numbers. He doesn’t quite offer enough offensively to start virtually every game against every RH pitcher. He would give the Braves a great defensive replacement and a solid left-handed bat off the bench if he is okay with that role—perfect for double-switches.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

January 31, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

Amen Lew, It’s the greatest game on earth. I’d play for free if they had a league for my age group. Ten years removed from my last high school season and I miss it more than ever…..And no, I won’t play softball.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

January 31, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Let me back up a second. I WILL play softball but it won’t fill the void. Just not the same.

By Lew

January 31, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Hillbilly-I know what you mean. I’m ten years beyond my middle forties. I have one friend outside Atlanta that just retired at 52 (both from league baseball and work). I didn’t last nearly that long (in baseball)-but then again, how many people that could pass for Wicky’s brother play past High School, anyway?

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

Hillbilly

Being only 34 years removed from HS baseball, softball is the ONLY thing that works anymore. Fortunately for me, I was a first baseman, and that is easier when the wheels slow down and the rotator cuff is about done.

The game is still fun though! :-)

By Lew

January 31, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

One point on the whole Langerhans/Diaz situation. Keep in mind that our defense (at least the right side of the infield) has been questioned heavily this off season. Now I don’t quite agree with the doom and gloomers on this one,but wouldn’t it be more intelligent to keep Langerhans in to shore up a supposedly shaky defense? At least with him playing, you’re only concerned about the defense at two positions. With Diaz in there, it’s three positions.

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

Lew,

Sounds like we are in the same boat brother. I have had two surgeries on my right (throwing) shoulder in the past year to try to get some more mileage out of it, as I have a 14 year old at home that still wants to play the big 3 with dad.

I had a dream a month ago while I was rehabbing my latest scar tissue clean-out. I dreamed I was in spring training trying to make a comeback for the Braves! I guess thats as close as I will get any more. Back in the 60’s and 70’s in South Carolina, we all tried to throw the knuckleball like Phil N. I was OK, but was a punch and judy hitter going nowhere. Not bad around the bag though for a righty. My attention span was better than LaRoche though! :-)

By Lew

January 31, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

Wayne-I think I went 1-2 with a walk and 3 SB in Jr. High. I then proceded to make two errors on one play at third. I saw the bench for the rest of my career (I’m not sure it actually qualifies as a career). I think the stolen bases were a result of the shock that I had the guts to run. But, damn, I love baseball. I have an offer from a ML pitcher to take BP against him. I think after 9 eye surgeries, I’d better pass. It’s tempting, though. Not sure if I have the nerves to face someone who was clocked at 102.

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

Lew,

I think the Braves are thinking Johnson should be able to handle 2B pretty well because he’s played SS and 3B. And 1B is a relatively easy position so they aren’t too concerned with Thorman/Wilson over there as long as they make the routine plays. And Diaz, although he’s not anywhere near a Gold Glover, he’s not extremely terrible either. He doesn’t have the softest hands, but glancing at the numbers it appears his range was good. He got to more balls than an average LF both per game and per 9 innings.

As long as Renteria, Andruw and McCann anchor the defense, I don’t think the Braves are too concerned.

By Lew

January 31, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Shaun-I see your point and i agree with you on Johnson and Thorman. Diaz, however, is another story altogether. I really think a. he’ll never hit in the .320’s ever again b.He has zero power c. the guy really is a defensive liability as far as I’m concerned. I also think, that given the playing time, Langerhans is good for .265-.280. If he can hit for that range of averages, with his defense, he’s the answer. He is such a good defensive outfielder. With him out there in left, we have the best defensive outfield in baseball. No question about it.

By ernesto

January 31, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

On a drummer note, if you like vibey-rhythmic percussion albums check out Mickey Hart’s (one of the Dead’s drummers) album Planet Drum. Real good. About 12 years old or more though.

By TennesseePaul

January 31, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Payne: Cox, at least for the last 5 or so years, has gone with a 12 man pitching staff. It could change this year though seeing how strong the pen looks. In the past, there was concern in portions of the staff, long relief, Lefties, closers, overall pen, questionable rotation… that last one makes me think he’ll keep 12 out of spring training. As much as I hope Hampton and Hudson and James and Davies/Cormier and Smoltz will be excellent, there are some question marks. 12 Pitchers allows for wiggle room.

By Lew

January 31, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

TenPaul-I agree with the 12 man staff-especially early in the season it is almost a certainty that BC will go with that many. I read in the new Chop Talk that Matt Harrison is viewed as almost definitely being brought up sometime this season. The kid supposedly has the unruffledness of Glavine and Maddux-like control. I’m really looking forward to seeing this kid pitch. We really have a strong staff, now and in the nest few years. JS’s moves to get Soriano and Gonzo were a stroke of genius. Those moves shore us up for at least three years.

By MBATL

January 31, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

The Braves used 26 pitchers in 2006, and 12 different pitchers started at least one game. Granted, we were pounded by injuries, and also had a couple of guys who just didn’t perform. And, late-season trades added to the number, so hopefully the number will be much lower this year.

But given the fact that we need to try to limit Hampton’s innings, and Smoltz’s, and that Hudson has not shown the ability to pitch deep into games… we should carry 12 pitchers. Soriano and Gonzo are great pickups, but we don’t need to work either of them to death. Both have histories of arm problems.

I think it’ll be interesting to see if Bobby uses his 5th starter (probably Davies) on a regular basis, or sits him when an off-day provides extra rest to the top 4. I hope he’ll maintain a strict 5-man rotation until/unless Davies proves below par. That might mean Smoltz and Hudson get only 30 starts instead of 35, which is a good thing if we can get away with it.

By MGL

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

TennP, I agree with you, I don’t think there is any way BC will go with less than 12 pitchers. With the stated desire to return to pitching dominance, he will not take the risk of only 11. There are the inevitable short start, extended innings, double-header games, and long stretches (16 straight in April) to consider. He cannot overuse the power-pitchers in the pen, and it looks like Oscar may be the only long relief guy for a while. Has to go with 12.

By ncscoots

January 31, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

MBATL, I’d be shocked were BC to sit one of the top 4 starters on his regular day to give a start to the 5th starter (keeping a 5-man in perfect rotation). If it’s a matter of deliberately giving Smoltz or Hampton a start off, that’s a different story. But I can’t see giving the fifth starter an extra ten starts at the expense of the top four.

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Lew: I too am excited about our staff. I always am cautious though, as last year we went into April with a good starting core (Smoltz, Hudson, Ramirez, Devine, Sosa, and Thomson in reserve) assuming that they would do as well as if not better than in 05. Look what happened.

We are in somewhat the same boat this year. Everybody assumes James is the real deal, but I prefer to wait until I see it TWO years in a row. Also, we expect a decent return from Hampton (he has the positive track record when healthy) and a return to form of Hudson. See where I am going. It is good to be cautiously optimistic, because we are FANS and that means we are fanatic about our team.

As far as our upcoming talent. I have always assumed that out of 3 prospects, maybe one comes close to expectations. Maybe a second one will fall a bit short, but still be serviceable, and the third one is a dud. So, lets throw in Devine, Boyer, Lerew, Harrison, Startup, Schrieber, Basner, and Bueno. Thats 8 guys. Lets assume 2-3 are legit, and 2 more are close to legit. Not bad numbers. There is another group, I’ll call them the late bloomers. Sometimes one will be the real deal, but if you get one out of 3 or 4 to be still producing in 3 years, that is good. (again, all these numbers I am throwing around are just a feel for what I think has happened in the past.) In this group I include Paronto, Yates, Stockman, Moylan, and to a lesser degree Sturtze.

So, we have the makings of an excellent staff, if we can avoid the injury bug and if lady luck smiles on us just a bit.

As for LF, I suspect there will be a change or two in the spring to clarify the issue. Diaz is a part-timer. Might be at his peak, but also might be rising. Remember Charles Thomas and Eli Marrero? I am OK with Diaz defense; not great, but he doesn’t totally suck either. Langerhans might be the real deal, but I think if he is not moved in the spring, it will be his last hurrah in Atlanta unless he produces. (275-15-75 numbers)

One last thought on LF. I don’t know that we might see KJ back out there in a couple of years, unless he turns into another Bill Mazeroski. We have some promising young talent on the way up at the middle infield positions: Lillibridge, Escobar, Andrus, Campbell, Holt and Prado. Not too much to expect a couple of gems out of this bunch.

Whaddya think?

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

I think Oscar might be our ace in the hole. I also liked what I saw of Cormier and his curveball, when limited by innings. Get ready Yates, McBride, Paronto, Boyer and Devine. There should be pleny of work for a dozen pitchers.

My guess if no other deals happen before opening day: Smoltz, Hudson, Hampton, James, Devine (Cormier waiting in Richmond) Wick, Gonzo, Soriano, Oscar, McBride, Yates, Paronto (Boyer and Devine tuning up in Richmond).

By MBATL

January 31, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

ncscoots, you’re probably right; it probably makes more sense to deliberately decide to give guys a day off, if you ever actually choose to do that - but in the real world it doesn’t seem to happen very often, from what I’ve seen. Smoltz and Hampton would probably take the ball every third day if you let them…

Speaking of Smoltz, last year he was 5th in the league with 232 innings pitched… an amazing performance by a guy his age. But, all the other guys in the top 10 IP were under 30, except Carpenter, who was 31. I believe that hard as it will be, Bobby HAS to try to cut him down to 200 innings or less.

By MBATL

January 31, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

That’s 5th in Majors, not the NL, for Smoltz.

By 82DAWG

January 31, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

What to do in Left field? Good gosh, this team is a disaster. What to do in left field? That is like the Confederate army in 1865 asking “what are we going to do about our drum and bugle corp??

If this team doesn’t come in dead last its only because the division has so many other bad teams.

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

82Dawg

Son, you better go back to football or something, because you don’t have a clue over here….

By TennesseePaul

January 31, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Keeping Smoltz at 200 innings means he’d pitch 6 or so innings a start. I’d like to see him last forever as well, but if we keep using 4 pitchers a night, the whole staff is going to the crapper. Last season, Hudson could barely go 6 innings. James is still a young guy. And Hampton is coming off surgery. It’s going to be tough keeping these guys to low innings. Especially Smoltz. They’d have to drag him off the field most of the time.

By MBATL

January 31, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

TP, I don’t want to bring Smoltz out after the 6th when he’s pitching well. I want to limit him, and Hampton, to about 30 starts, rather than 35, and let them go all out when they’re on the mound. That means starting our 5th (or 6th?) starter more often. I have more faith in Davies than most, I guess… but regardless of that, I just don’t think we can expect these 2 guys to pitch 230 innings in 2007 and avoid injury.

By TennesseePaul

January 31, 2007 01:13 PM | Link to this

MBATL: It’s an idea. But I’d bet it’ll be tougher than figuring out Left Field. Smoltz is going to want the ball. On top of that, I’d imagine a lot of pitchers get into a rhythm on their starts. Switching it up, by extending the time between starts might be difficult. The simplest way do extend the time might be to stick with a 5 man rotation, no matter what. Last year, and I understand why, when there was an off day, the 5th starter was skipped. But then, last year, the 5th starter was Kevin Barry or Travis Smith or pick a number. The type of thing that makes you pray you can skip over the 5th spot.

By ncscoots

January 31, 2007 01:37 PM | Link to this

Guys, even Smoltz is gonna have outings in which he is hammered early, just doesn’t have it, etc., and will leave early. No pitcher is gonna bring his A game 35 times a year, so pitching 7+ in his good starts is OK. Have Smoltz (or Hampton or Hudson) miss a turn in July/August if needed, don’t let them pitch 9 in blowouts, be smart about pitchcounts, etc., and 210 innings shouldn’t be a problem. Besides, the stress-per-inning probably takes a greater toll than the raw number of innings pitched (an easy 7 vs a tough 5, for instance).

TPaul is right about one thing…they keep running relievers out there in the 6th every night, the bullpen will be lucky to have one good arm among them by September.

By Wayne in UT

January 31, 2007 01:38 PM | Link to this

I think the way to handle the pitching staff is to let them work until they start to falter or hit an area of a pitch count. Otherwise you might frustrate the pitcher or overmanage the situation. Let it come to you….

Didn’t Diaz get some contact lens this past spring that supposedly helped him in the field or was that I dream I had?

By snowball's chance

January 31, 2007 01:42 PM | Link to this

DOB, how long do the Braves have the rights to Soriano and Gonzales?

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 01:58 PM | Link to this

Shaun-I see your point and i agree with you on Johnson and Thorman. Diaz, however, is another story altogether. I really think a. he’ll never hit in the .320’s ever again b.He has zero power c. the guy really is a defensive liability as far as I’m concerned. I also think, that given the playing time, Langerhans is good for .265-.280. If he can hit for that range of averages, with his defense, he’s the answer. He is such a good defensive outfielder. With him out there in left, we have the best defensive outfield in baseball. No question about it.

Lew,

I think you are falling into the trap that a lot of people on this blog are falling into—just looking at Diaz as a journeyman whose only had one good season in the big leagues. But if you look at his numbers throughout all his pro baseball career (http://thebaseballcube.com/players/D/Matt-Diaz.shtml) you’ll see that Diaz is a good hitter; nothing spectacular but good.

He hasn’t hit under .270 in a season since his very first one in pro ball, low class A. He doesn’t walk or K much, but he hits the ball hard every time up. Earlier this week I compared him to a low rate Vlad Guerrero—similar hitting skills but not quite as athletic.

A big reason he’s been a journeyman is because his power doesn’t overwhelm and he’s not extremely fast so the other two organizations he was with didn’t give him a fair shot.

As far as Langerhans, his minor league averages are .265 AVG/.355 OBP/.414 SLG. Good OBP but nothing overly spectacular for a prospect, especially considering his SLG is not all that impressive. Langerhans is a pretty good player, but based on his numbers it doesn’t look like he has the ability to play left virtually everyday in the majors.

By Shaun

January 31, 2007 02:10 PM | Link to this

Wayne in UT,

I don’t think Marrero or Charles Thomas kept their career averages around .300 in the majors and minors. Marrero’s minor league numbers aren’t all that impressive at all (.256/.314/.453). Charles Thomas’s numbers look okay (.271/.355/.383) but not quite as good as Matt Diaz.

So Diaz is not Marrero or Thomas.

Honestly, I don’t think Diaz is a God or even an All-Star but I think a lot of people are underrating him. Give the man some respect, for the money he is a pretty darn good player.

http://www.braves.net/bravesjournal/?p=2942

By Robert

January 31, 2007 02:18 PM | Link to this

Sheila C was the prettiest girl in my town - Boys loved her So people used to say she ran around. - Sheila’s reputation was fast - She was my first love and she was my last - Sheila C was tyhe prettiest girl in my town

Every night we’d steal away and have a rendevous - Turn the radio up and do what lovers do

Sheila C - by Benny Mardones

Great tune -

By