Braves

By Carolina Gent

February 21, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

DOBeatWriter, Towards the end of last season, when it was plainly (and painfully) obvious that that team just wasn’t good enough to keep the streak going, a number of us said that maybe, just maybe, that wasn’t such a bad thing after all. Perhaps, along with a serious talent decrease and injuries, complacency had set in and some of the guys who had never experienced losing would come back hungrier than ever this season. Granted, it’s early, but it sounds like that’s exactly what’s happened. And that can be nothing but good. Thanks for all you do to keep us in the know!

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Nice post DOB! These Daily blogs are going to ruin me at work. Keep it up!

By ssiscribe

February 21, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

For all the commercialization, all the noise, all that is wrong with the Evil Empire, there is something serene, indeed, about that baseball field, the wind blowing through the palm trees and the players taking the field.

Beats the heck outta the thunder and rain in the ATL today. Thanks for the blog and for the scene setting. Transporting the reader to the scene of the story is an essential trait of journalism; mission accomplished. I can almost feel the dew on the grass on the berm in left field.

Opening day can’t get here soon enough.

Later on,

—30—

By Kieran from Long Island

February 21, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

I’m very disappointed in this reporting… The Pink Frosted doughnuts are BY FAR the best!

By Greg in TN

February 21, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Morning friends and neighbors…

There’s nothing like a spring morning in the sun with the sound of gloves popping in the distance, the dew on the outfield grass… What a wonderful image to this fan.

Thanks for the update DOB. I’ve always heard that Craig Wilson was a hoot to have around, it’s good to hear the confirmation and I am happy to have Craig on our side going into 2007.

I think these guys from top to bottom, from McGuirk and JS all the way down are hungry. There is a lot of pride in this organization and we’ve come a long way from the moment Ted rehired BC away from the Great White North and JS from Kansas City to begin the resurgence that became the worst-to-first team in 1991 and what came afterward. I for one, believe the ship is righted and we will compete and win this year.

Keep us in the know, DOB. This blog is what has kept me engaged through a disappointing offseason, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of reading and responding.

By LISTENING

February 21, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Where have all the bloggers gone? This post has been up over an hour. The wind blowing thru the palms, brilliant blue skys, sunny and 60 degrees. When I grow up I want to be a beat writer like DOB. Any sign of Blanco and any apparent management change toward looking at him as a roster in training centerfielder?

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Kieran: Pink Frosted??? No thanks. Apple Fritters are the best, and who can be an old southern Krispy Kreme!

Thanks for the insights DOB.

Gotta think Craig Wilson will be hard to keep out of the lineup unless Langerhans or Diaz step up as Diaz did last year. Personally, I would love to see all 3 excell this year. Nice problem for Bobby to have.

TennPaul: I gotta get to work or I’m not going to hit the mark this month and get my kiester fired…..

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 21, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Love hearing from the lighter side of some of the players’ senses of humor. Sometimes the same old “We got a good team and I think we can compete with the best this year”—talk gets drab. That’s why I always used to love a good Mark Grace interview. That man’s a hoot.

Edgar Renteria and Shakira, Huh? Don’t know which one has it worse: him or Tom Brady…….(Bridget Moynahan-can I say it, DOB?…YOWZA!!)

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

The Division will be fought for by the Mets and Phillies. The Braves will finish 3rd……You heard it here first folks.

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

We to initiate a new thing here on DOB’s blog: “The Daily Blanco Update”

Lots of us out here in Braveland are very curious about this young man.

By Oregon_Braves

February 21, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

Wayne - Right on, bro. Krispy Kreme all the way. Accept no substitute.

By Shaun

February 21, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Everyone has made a big deal about the bullpen (and rightfully so) but this may be one of Bobby Cox’s best benches.

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Is that Bobby Cox disguised as “No Chop Zone” trying to stir up a mess of trouble this morning?

By kdbanks

February 21, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Alright, folks. Someone find a picture of Mike’s hot girlfriend and post a link up here quick!

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

okay, scribe, here goes … sitting here before the inspiron 9100, gazing out the window, this journalist can feel the raindrops tapping, tapping, on the window - a lure perhaps? luring this journalist to warm, balmy, breezes of spring training? the crack of the bat and the slap of the ball into hosshide?

oh, the humanity! journalism is jimmy smith’s life! now, transition …

what manner of nickname is “hoss”? if one goes by a nickname already and that nickname is supplanted by the nickname “hoss”, what does that say about the validity of the earlier nickname? and why, “hoss”? why not, “horse”? and since it is well documented that old hoss radbourn of the boston braves already is the hoss of the braves … it seems hoss is most inappropriate. are we to call someone else, knucksie? someone else, hammer? kitten? mad dog? big cat? seal pup? gilly? andy? wicky? syrupy? frenchy? fran and ollie? too little is being made of nickname familiarity on this braves team.

and what will be the nickname for someone like jonathan johnson? johnny? oh, the humanity! there is your hoss.

now, baseball … this journalist is going to spring training after all. dob, can you arrange for credentials for jimmy smith?

journalist will check at will-call.

By Oregon_Braves

February 21, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

Man, now I’m hungry AND homesick!

By Novice Ned

February 21, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Visa problems? We do you journalists even use that terminology to describe the situation that occurs every season with a handful of Latino players? Isn’t having a Visa problem akin to arriving at the airport 5 minutes before a flight is leaving and declaring that you had a “security issue”? If you want to get to Florida by x date, shouldn’t you ensure that you have Visa in hand by x-y date? These guys are likely just enjoying a few more days of home cooking before heading out. Visa problems? Puh-lease. Maybe I’ll go to the Braves home opener without tickets and declare when I can’t get through the gates that I had “ticketing problems”.

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

JJS: Does the second nickname cancel out the first one? Does this mean it must be Larry from this point forward….

By Matt

February 21, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Why is it that people feel drawn to come onto a Braves blog and post negative comments? What is the point? Go post on another blog. The Mets have no pitching staff and the Phillies are you kidding me?

By ssiscribe

February 21, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

All right, lunch time! Back to Lake Buena Vista via the blog and my laptop here in the office with two doors, no windows and a heart longing to see some baseball.

Krispy Kreme vs. Dunkin Donuts? Just glad I got ‘em both now. Previous place where I lived was beautiful, but 70 miles from either KK or DD. Oh the humanity!

Now, baseball (note the transition): Where is Mr. Blanco? Prado? Soriano? Waldo? (Just kidding). Brian Jordan? (Kidding again). And who will pitch against Georgia Tech in the opener seven days from now?

Jimmy, nice scene setting in your last post. So nice, I won’t even say anything about AP style being OK (two letters, all caps), as opposed to spelling out okay. Still, I don’t think the Wurlitzer folks will hold it against you in consideration for the 2008 honor. The scene setting is quite nice, indeed

Selah. Off to have a meeting where we will discuss, among other things, style and transition (and maybe a little baseball, too). Oh, the humanity!

—30—

By Charlie Hatton

February 21, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Ned -

In many cases, you’re right — the player often can be to blame in visa-related snafus. But in this case, it seems Soriano isn’t at fault. From today’s camp roundup, here on AJC:

*So who’s to blame when players can’t get a visa in time? Assistant general manager Frank Wren said this one was not the fault of the Braves or Soriano.

“The team has to apply for the visa, and sometimes something gets held up in the approval process,” he said. “That wasn’t the case here. We applied and it was approved literally weeks ago.

“The player makes an appointment to get his visa after it’s approved, and I think there’s one lady there handling appointments for all the minor league and major league players. He couldn’t get an appointment until [Tuesday].”*

Not sure why the DR visa office only has ‘one lady’ to help the players, but it sounds like the lines for papers down there would put our local DMVs to shame.

Charlie / Bugs & Cranks

By Porkins

February 21, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Thanks, David. It just reminds me how great it is that A WEEK FROM THIS FRIDAY we will all get to watch the Braves on ESPN. Holy crap.

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

please change the “okay” in journalist’s last post to: okey-dokey. thankyouverymuch.

now, krispy kreme or dunkin’ donuts? note that krispy kreme is a doughnut and dunkin’ is a donut. there is much to ponder here. perhaps someone should sound out wicky on the merits of the two doughnut/donut products and report back to the bloggers.

perhaps dob can find out for us today from wicky?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 21, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

It is a latin american country. The answer is….. We do it our way… You go to back of the line gringo!!!! We love your money. NOW GO HOME!!!!

Next Question?

Krispy Kreme vs. Dunkin Donuts…. No contest for a southerner. It’s a Krispy Kreme as long as it is not boxed and stored at the local 7-Eleven for a week. A Dunkin Donut is HEAVY METAL… Be sure and take two Rolaids after every bite.

By The Grinch

February 21, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Heather Mills to join “Dancing With the Stars?” It’s SOOOOOOOOOOOOO tempting, oh, my. I’ll just stick with an old one, instead. Did you hear Sir Paul got his wife a plane for Christmas? Yeah, she’ll still have to use a razor on the other leg, though. Thank you, thank you. :-)

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

and will tom brady ever be surprised … that’s all this journalist can say right now.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 21, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Heather Mills to join “Dancing With the Stars?” It’s SOOOOOOOOOOOOO tempting, oh, my.

Oh, the endless possibilities…..

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

grinch, what’s the over and under on the james brown burial this week?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 21, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

and will tom brady ever be surprised … that’s all this journalist can say right now.

JJS, now that I think about it, you did mention a new girlfriend. And you’re hiatus of several days blamed on a silly little blog spat??? Clever, my friend. Very clever.

By StingerSplash

February 21, 2007 01:00 PM | Link to this

Too bad there’s not Tim Horton’s down there for great donuts and even better coffee. Shakira sings? Maybe next time she’s on TV, I’ll watch with the sound turned up instead.

By nick

February 21, 2007 01:01 PM | Link to this

Charlie and Ned - It’s also not always this one lady’s fault. Lots of times Embassies and Consulates lose applications, mix things up, print visas wrong, and make all sorts of other mistakes which hinder the process. I work in immigration law and see these problems all the time.

By Alan

February 21, 2007 01:02 PM | Link to this

Great post, DOB! Your creative writing really shines through on this one. Never mind feeling the breeze through the palms or tasting the pink-iced donut - how about smelling Bobby’s stogies? I agree wholeheartedly with TennPaul. How can anyone concentrate on work when the Braves Blog beckons? OK, that’s all for now - back to work. I’ll return after 5.

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 01:03 PM | Link to this

journalist’s first thought involves dancing the hokey-pokey. still, that is in bad taste for this blog so please ignore the post. now, baseball … did tony pena, jr spend any time with daddy mccann this off-season? this journalist thinks tony pena jr can play if he can slap the ball somewhere - and who better to teach this than daddy mccann? tony pena jr already has the glove just needs the stick. oh, the humanity! baseball lingo! now, music … ellaguru will surely sell dob some ukulele music now. also good for picking up girls, “hey, nice ukulele!”

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 01:06 PM | Link to this

yes, hope the virile quarterback can take a joke.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 01:10 PM | Link to this

I’m in Cali and even here everyone knows Krispy Kreme are the best… Dunkin’ Donuts? Thats like trying to compare McDonalds to In ‘n Out, NOT EVEN CLOSE!

And oh, DOB, I love the pink donuts!

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 01:33 PM | Link to this

It really sucks AJ now has the no trade clause. We are going to lose him for a couple of draft picks, thats just not good business. I want to see Liberty just say f**k it and up the payroll to $100mil, cuz thats the ONLY way we will see Andruw in a Braves uniform ever again.

I wish baseball had a “franchise tag” like football does. Then we could just franchise him in 2008 and get one more solid year of him in his prime. Or something similar you know? I mean, players get an automatic no trade clause after 10 years of service for the same team, shouldn’t the team get something out of that too? Damn players union, they’ve got too much power…

By Bigmuddy

February 21, 2007 01:35 PM | Link to this

Been following Braves and Cardinals since mid-60’s—Is there any year the Dominians don’t have Visa problems????-they just don’t like spring training and to leave home I guess. Would like to see some team dock their pay and the visa problems would go away.

By Bigmuddy

February 21, 2007 01:35 PM | Link to this

Been following Braves and Cardinals since mid-60’s—Is there any year the Dominians don’t have Visa problems????-they just don’t like spring training and to leave home I guess. Would like to see some team dock their pay and the visa problems would go away.

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 01:37 PM | Link to this

Matt, The Mets didn’t have any pitching last year either but still won the division. As for the Phillies, I think underestimating them is just plain arrogance. Brave fans did the same thing last year and had to watch both the Mets and Phils have better years than those Braves of yours.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 01:41 PM | Link to this

DonC: Dunkin’ Donuts is a Met thing. I was deep in Mets territory prior to Christmas. Every Met fan out there gathers around the Dunkin’ Donuts. Mention Krispy Kreme and they get all weird. It’s like Bazaro World up there. Nothin’ is right.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2007 01:41 PM | Link to this

How can anyone like the pink donuts? Nothing like the hot glazed from … Krispy Kreme. Yes, not even close.

First Krispy Kreme was in Greensboro, N.C., but we also had one in Greenville, N.C. in the 1970s.

OK, Hampton threw to batters today, first time facing hitters this spring. Looked good, but conceded he’s taking it slowly. Threw fastballs and a few change-ups today, no breaking balls yet.

They’re not certain whether they’ll have him take first turn in spring rotation or now. They just want to make sure he’s ready for regular season, which, as of now, is the plan….

Oh, the BLANCO REPORT: Bobby praised him this morning before the workout, must’ve heard his name brought up in meeting since yesterday or just remembered or something, since yesterday….

Lillibridge looks 15. Not kidding. Might be the youngest looking guy I’ve seen in a big league uniform. But Cox said he looked great taking infield on a backfield, with Escobar, Pena, and others. He said Lillibridge looks like a major league player right now….

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 01:48 PM | Link to this

The Mets didn’t have any pitching last year either but still won the division

The Braves didn’t have any pitching either and lost the season. The Phillies had shoddy pitching last year and lost the division. What’s changed? Oh yeah… The Braves have pitching. The Phillies have pitching. The Mets picked up Jorge Sosa. To learn more about your new starter, see the first half of the Braves 2006 season. Think he might be good in the pen? See the middle or the 2006 season for the Braves.

By Zach

February 21, 2007 01:55 PM | Link to this

Dave,

What is the latest on Josh Burrus? I noticed he is no longer on the Braves 40 Man Roster. Is he in camp yet? What is your take on his future with the ball club?

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 01:57 PM | Link to this

Porkins: Just saw your post. What time is that on Friday? I hope they do the same game nation wide instead of some crappy split deal.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 02:02 PM | Link to this

“Lillibridge looks 15. Not kidding. Might be the youngest looking guy I’ve seen in a big league uniform. But Cox said he looked great taking infield on a backfield, with Escobar, Pena, and others. He said Lillibridge looks like a major league player right now…”

I was going to ask you about him DOB, that is really good news. This LaRoche trade may turn out to be one of JS’s best. Do you think that maybe after this year, if Lillibridge has a solid year in the minors, that the Braves would entertain a trade for Renteria? Kind of looking ahead I know, but I think a team like the Giants (Vizquel can’t play forever can he?) or Toronto would be more than willing to get their hands on Renteria (even though he’d only have a year left on his contract).

Or even forget next year, what if Lillibridge gets sent to AAA Richmond and he is tearing it up down there come June or July, do you think there is a chance the Braves could trade Renteria at the deadline and call up Lillibridge? I know the Braves could get a great return for a veteran player who’s won a World Series and can still rake… Surely some younger team who thinks they are still in it in July would love to have him on their team…. Plus it would give the Braves $10mil extra for 2008 to resign Smoltz and possibly AJ…

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 02:03 PM | Link to this

The Mets rotation to start the 2006 season looked this this: Pedro, Glavine, Trachsel, Zambrano, Bannister. I read post after post smirking at the Mets and their pitching and how the mighty braves were so superior in this dept. So here we go again with the same bull/arrogance. I guess you didn’t learn you lesson. All you have in February is potential and lot’s of if’s and maybe’s.

By Josh

February 21, 2007 02:09 PM | Link to this

Don, Andruw has a no trade clause b/c he is a 10 & 5 player. 10 years in the bigs and the last 5 with the same team. You’re right on with the payroll comment. Can’t tie up 25% of payroll on one player.

By BB FAN

February 21, 2007 02:12 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE,

You are right, the Mets had no starting pitching last year but got by on a great bullpen and a great offense.

The Mets’ bullpen has lost a few key guys (Bradford, Oliver and Hernandez) while replacing them with Schoeneweis, Burgos and Sosa. Not exactly solid replacemnts, however anything is possible. Sanchez is coming back from a separated shoulder. Mota will miss the 1st 50 games because he had to cheat last year to be successful. Wagner (age 36) is getting older and didn’t look the same last year. He may be slipping because of age and the fact that he is only about 5’9” so the innings over the years could be catching up with him. Pedro is out until the AS break if not longer. Glavine and Hernandez are both a year older. The Mets need to have Maine and Humber or Pelfrey to pitch well.

And don’t forget, most of the offense is getting old. Delgado (age 35), LoDuca (age 35), Green (age 34), Alou (age 41) Valentin (age 38) aren’t going to hit forever. Wright is a great young talent but has not learned to be productive both halves of the season. Who knows what Beltran will do…he has had a good year followed by a bad year his whole career so far. Valentin was a fluke last year. I would be surprised to see him repeat his production at 2B this year. And Easily is just as old as Valentin.

So the Mets have as many questions as the Braves do if not more. Actually, the Phillies are in the same boat. All three teams have big question marks. I believe one of the three will be the division winner. And I believe they all have the same chance but anything can happen.

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 02:20 PM | Link to this

ah, yes, another mention of in-and-out burger. this must be a very fine burger. when will it come to atlanta?

perhaps wicky can obtain the franchise and set-up close to turner field for a before-game meal? after-game and waiting in the bullpen meals, too.

now, baseball … why does “p” player tony pena jr get no respect? sure, he does not hit - but neither did rafael belliard and look at what belliard did for the braves. this journalist really believes that tony pena jr can make contributions to this team - but alas, does he have upside like aybar? downside like orr? and will there be three canadians on this braves team this year? oh, the humanity!

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 02:22 PM | Link to this

I think the only lesson not learned was the importance of pitching by Mets fans. The Braves starting rotation consisted of 13 pitchers throughout the season and a terrible pen. But that only explains why the Braves fell so far. It was fodder for the Mets and everyother team save the Cards, who we demolished last year. The Braves went about fixing that issue.

What the Mets didn’t learn was, that shoddy rotation of theirs defeated them in the post season. An 83 win team stepped over those 97 wins to take it all. So, to make sure that didn’t happen again, Omar picked up Chan Ho and Sosa. And the Met fans cheered.
Victor Zambrano. HA! That will always crack me up.

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 02:23 PM | Link to this

BB Fan—We got Mota at the trading deadline (It might have been after) So he wasn’t cheating with the Mets all season. By the time we aquired him the Mets had a comfortable division lead. You also forgot to mention Reyes. Probably the most exciting and talented young ballplayer in the NL. Until proven otherwise the Mets are the best team in the division. They are the champs until someone takes it from them.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 02:34 PM | Link to this

I love Mets fans, such total tools and always angry… I guess being second fiddle to a team in your own city would make me mad too though…

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 02:44 PM | Link to this

no chop zone, the little division sign is overplayed. finish first in the division and you get a little sign to hang on the wall. the braves have plenty of these. now, the mets have one. what counts is the national league pennant - whether you win it as a division champ or as a wild card. the braves can’t seem to win a pennant and the mets didn’t win one even with the high-priced talent last year. so, what national league team is presently constructed to win a league championship and then the series? and what is the greatest shortcoming of a team that year after year finishes first in the division and cannot advance past the first 5-game series? is it (opens can of worms) bobbycox? is it poor performance from the big boppers? is it the inability to manufacture a run against a power pitcher? it a shabby bullpen? is it the lack of our own power pitching? is it (like the mets) running into a team with better pitching? oh, the humanity! baseball is back and this journalist hopes the braves have finally found the answer and will make the necessary corrections to win a pennant instead of another sign.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 02:44 PM | Link to this

And they are all blind to what Pedro has become. Keep hearing how he’s coming back at the All Star break, GOOD! He is a shell of his former self! Did you see how he pitched last year when he was “healthy”? And I say “healthy” because he will NEVER EVER be 100% again! 2005 was his last good year, the guy is 35 going on 50…

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 02:46 PM | Link to this

Tennpaul—What failed the Mets wasn’t pitching in last years playoffs. It was their bats. they faced a Cards pitching staff that got hot. Not only did they overcome a superior Mets teams but a Tigers team too. If you put your bias aside and looked at it honestly.

By GPW

February 21, 2007 02:54 PM | Link to this

DOB, I have frequented the KK in Greenville many, many times when I was a student at ECU! Brings back many memories….

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 02:54 PM | Link to this

please don’t delete the jackass. jackass suffers from journalist envy. jackass’ return to the blog gives this blog character (not the right kind, but character, still). journalist believes that in time journalist and jackass can become good friends. already journalist is dating jackass’ baby sister. imagine, someone has mistaken jackass’ sister for an orangutan. now, baseball … who will position the outfielders now that pat corrales has left this team? will it be chico or will it be bobby?

By The Grinch

February 21, 2007 02:55 PM | Link to this

Howdy, all. JJS, I hope for the pallbearers’ sake the Godfather gets cremated first. Oh, the mephitis! Time to grab a shower; going to a Hawks game tonight. Me and a couple hundred of my closest friends will be in Phillips watching our Hawks get slaughtered by the Spurs. Maybe I can get Tim Duncan’s autograph. I’ll be back on and roaring drunk about midnight. Ciao.

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 21, 2007 02:55 PM | Link to this

So AJC—I would like to know why you deleted my last post??…

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 02:57 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! jackass was deleted! journalist would like to withdraw journalist’s last post.

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 21, 2007 03:00 PM | Link to this

How telling—journalist jimmy smith is inferring that my deleted post was directed at him—how presumptuous—then he attacks me with an even nastier reply than my original general comment—In the interest of fairness—how long before AJC deletes Mr. Smith’s statement also—I and my attorney will be waiting!

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 03:04 PM | Link to this

Hey look folks. You can point to any team and find weakness’s. Being able to compensate for can help a team win. Yes, Pedro isn’t the same. Their pitching staff won’t scare anyone. But their offense,defense and bullpen compensated for it last year. I think that those strengths will keep the Mets winning in 2007 but we won’t know until we play the games.

By ssiscribe

February 21, 2007 03:05 PM | Link to this

Grinch, bro, can you dribble? Maybe you can play point guard in the fourth quarter.

—30—

By N8

February 21, 2007 03:07 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone

You asked:

“Or even forget next year, what if Lillibridge gets sent to AAA Richmond and he is tearing it up down there come June or July, do you think there is a chance the Braves could trade Renteria at the deadline and call up Lillibridge?”

I realize you were asking DOB and not me. But…..

My guess is that if the Braves are WAY out of wildcard contention at the deadline and Lillibridge was ready to make the jump, JS most certainly would entertain offers for Renteria. However, if the Braves are in the race, I don’t think there is a snoball’s chance in hell of Renteria (or any veteran that can produce for a “stretch run”) is going to get moved mid-season.

My best guess is that Renteria will be a Brave all season (since I feel the Braves will at the very least, be in contention for the wildcard), and then most certainly, Renteria will be shopped next offseason.

Just common sense, really. ESPECIALLY if JS really wants to make a run at keeping Andruw.

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 21, 2007 03:08 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith you certainly are a privileged dude—you get to say whatever you like, anytime you like, about anybody you like—and AJC and DOB protect you like a retarded stepchild!

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 03:09 PM | Link to this

soon this journalist and jackass will become baseball buddies and talk baseball all the time instead of swapping insults. of course, jackass does have a track record of misbehavior on this blog. still, jackass can be redeemed. much like the deposit on a glass bottle.

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 21, 2007 03:15 PM | Link to this

This and That

We used to sell Krispy Kremes to raise money for the sclool … fifteen cents … before long they went up to twenty!

The teachers told us it was due to rising production costs and that neither the school nor the company was making more money … I think that was the first time I heard about inflation and “fair market value”.

Times have changed … it’s hard to find donuts for twenty cents a dozen … even Dunkin Donuts cost more than that!

It’s as easy to laugh about BJ’s signing as it was difficult to watch his struggle the past few years … but for many of us, he still personifies spirit as few Braves have done.

I just saw where the Atlanta Zoo has installed a new air conditioning unit for its Giant Panda Exhibit … the report said that the new unit would insure that a temperature of between 68 and 700 degrees could be maintained throughout the year! That certainly brings new meaning to “Hotlanta”.

I don’t know what all the fuss is about Aybar and Soriano having visa problems … I’ve had trouble with my mine for years and nobody paid much attention … tell those boys to be more frugal and report to camp!

Can you imagine an unopened box of “Macs” in Bobby’s office? … the very least I expect from David out of Spring Training is to hear that he’s nicked a few for me and Grinch … Edgar done real good when he introduced the “Mac” … like Sam said, it’s a good smoke!

Maybe the Ugandan journalist could trade some pies for that box when he arrives in Florida … huh, maybe?

Am I to understand tha experts say most players reach their peak in their late twenties so that means they start to decline when they’re thirty … going from amazing to great? Goodness!

We all know about experts and besides, that’s not what HK’s charts indicate.

Shaun, I know that it a little before your time but the “experts” said the Earth was flat, Tom Dewey was President, and that the Dow would never break the 1,000 barrier.

Some folks can smell talent … they’re called scouts, others can develop it … they’re called coaches, others can appreciate it … they’re called fans … I guess that leaves the experts.

No wonder I’ve had the flu … 20 one day 70 the next … later!

By Steve-O

February 21, 2007 03:15 PM | Link to this

Yeh those Phils are dangerous. Their top 3 starters let up 30+ HR’s every year. The Phils 3rd Baseman is Wes Helms, RF is Shane Victorino and his 6 HRs in 415 AB’s and cant forget about Rod Barajas catching with that beaming Career BA of .240, but they do have the fan favorite Pat Burrell (HA), and those awesome setup men in the bullpen too. Theres Phillies reality

Mets are dangerous too, having lost 2 of their best relievers and having Moises Alou and his urinated infested hands and Shawn Green at the corners is equivalent to Mondesi and B Jordan. Jose Valentin is a platinum player though. Valentin is Definitely one of the Mets rising stars at the fresh age of 38. El Duque will be pathetic this year lets all face this fact. Hudson Or El Duque?? OK….. The Mets do have Sandy Alomar Jr. at backup catcher now too…..Another one of the Mets young studs, (Hes only 40 I think, pretty damn young for that team) Mets fans face it Pedro aint coming back, if he does itll be at 50%. AND also, Mets fans wheres your future outside of Reyes/Wright/Beltran??? Rest of the TEAM will be retired and living in Del Boca Vista with Frank and Estelle Costanza.

By Radar

February 21, 2007 03:16 PM | Link to this

journalists shouldn’t rattle certain cages. let sleeping dogs (or whatever) lie. more peaceful that way.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 03:18 PM | Link to this

wasn’t pitching in last years playoffs. It was their bats.

It’s true, Cards pitching got hot. The problem was though, the Mets pitching couldn’t get hot because, as you pointed out, it sucked last season.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 03:20 PM | Link to this

Not a single stat from Payne all day… Is he stuck over on the other blog?

By KC

February 21, 2007 03:23 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone: I agree. The Mets will win plenty of games even without a very good starting rotation. Great offense and a great bullpen are enough to win a lot of games. And as you have pointed out… you still have both. The bullpen is slightly diminished, but the offense is slightly better (and it was already excellent).

Your rotation is the thing that will keep the Mets from being a 100 win team, and it may well stand in the way of any World Series hopes.

As for the Braves, they will still have a very good offense (one of the top 3 or 4 in the league… as well as what is likely to be the top bullpen in baseball. The Braves have the same formula now that the Mets used last year to win (offense and bullpen).

It’ll be interesting to see what happens with Atlanta’s rotation. This could be an average/slightly above average pen, or it could be one of the best in baseball. There is a very high… in fact, almost non-existent ceiling for this rotation, but not much certainty.

If Hudson comes through in a big way and Hampton has (at least) a strong 2nd half… the Braves could surprise many and pull away from NY and Phil. If not, it will be an intense dog fight for this division.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 03:24 PM | Link to this

“Just common sense, really. ESPECIALLY if JS really wants to make a run at keeping Andruw.”

Forget about AJ, they may need to trade Renteria just to keep Smoltz!

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 21, 2007 03:27 PM | Link to this

Stevie-0, That’s pretty tuff talk from a team that didn’t even play .500 ball for the season and finished 18 games behind the Mets. I watched several braves games and saw nothing but a team that regularly got it’s A-S-S kicked. So what exactly should an opposing fan fear from the braves. inquiring minds want to know.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 03:34 PM | Link to this

Keeping Smoltz is a must. He cannot be allowed to leave. He is the last man standing of the big three. One of them must end their career in a Braves uniform. And Smoltz must reach his milestones in a Braves Uniform. And besides, we’ll always need that veteran leadership to bring along the young guns. I’d rather keep Smoltz in the rotation, provided health and so forth, than pulling in some one else. But even still, Smoltz is at 8 million. Maddux is at 10 million. Glavine is at something like 10 million this season. See if Smoltz would be interested in a 2 year 20 million deal with an option for a third year. By then he should be at about 220-230 wins when the option comes up.. He could put himself close to 250 by the time he retires. That’ll look great next to his 3,000+ Ks and 154 Saves. Not to mention the 5 or 6 extra Ws he’ll pick up in each post season this year and the following 2 or 3 years. He should retire with a post season record of about 27-3 2.30 ERA.

What’s the over/under on Smoltz throwing a no-hitter this season? He came close a couple times last year.

By MGL

February 21, 2007 03:38 PM | Link to this

Esteemed Journalist Jimmy - A nickel deposit for SJA is not worth the trouble. Let’s just toss him in the dumpster.

By KC

February 21, 2007 03:49 PM | Link to this

No CHOP ZONE: All bravado aside… It didn’t look like it most of the year, but the Braves were only a peace or two away from being an excellent team.

29 blown saves… that’s an awful lot of wins flushed down the toilet. Had Wickman and Soriano (to say nothing of Gonzalez) been in the bullpen from day one last year, that blown saves total would have been (at most) half of what it turned out to be. That would represent close to 15 additional wins. That would put the Braves well over 90 wins.

So as soon the Braves re-signed Wickman and dealt for Soriano, they became a 90-plus win team. The Braves made the NL East a race again just by doing those 2 things. But they didn’t stop there, and those two changes aren’t the only ways in which this team will be improved.

The deal for Mike Gonzalez was a good one. While we gave up a lot in return, this deal still improved the team.

The rotation will also be better in 3 or 4 ways: 1 – Mike Hampton’s return. No, I don’t have unrealistic expectations, but he’ll still help. 2 – Chuck James will be in the rotation for the entire season this year (he only started for half the season in 06). 3 – The rotation became far less injury prone when they parted ways with Horacio Ramirez and John Thompson, and 4 – Tim Hudson is likely to have a much better season. How much better? We’ll just have to wait and see… but it’s hard to imagine his ERA resembling anything close to last year’s ERA.

All in all, you are most likely looking at a team that will win well over 90 games. You should fear the Braves, just as the Braves should still fear the Mets.

Hey, in a spirit of cooperation, why don’t we team up and go harass people in a Phillies blog! lol

By ernesto

February 21, 2007 03:49 PM | Link to this

No Chop - has Beltran reported yet, or is he still standing at the plate with the bat on his shoulder?

By KC

February 21, 2007 03:50 PM | Link to this

TennPaul: That’s the silver lining in Andruw’s departure if he does in fact leave… That would free up any money we might need to keep smolty here.

By KC

February 21, 2007 03:51 PM | Link to this

Well, ya’ll have a pleasant evening! I’m heading down to Phillips Arena to watch Tim Duncan and the Spurs tar and feather Hawks. Later.

By eware

February 21, 2007 03:57 PM | Link to this

I agree with you, TennPaul. We’ve got to keep Smoltz. I don’t think he’ll drop off dramatically over the next 2-3 years. I mean, he’s our ace at 40 years old. In 2-3 years, he’ll probably still be at least our 3rd starter.

I’m smelling a no-hitter from him too.

By AdirondackDave

February 21, 2007 03:58 PM | Link to this

DOB — Greensboro, Greenville.. You’re kidding, right? We all know it’s the same town…

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 03:59 PM | Link to this

KC: Even Hudson in a bad season wasn’t too bad team wise. It over taxed the blowpen last season, but that pen was over taxed with just one inning. In Hudson’s starts last year we had a record of 21-14. In Smoltz’s starts we were 20-15. As bad as Hudson’s personal line was, the Braves pulled out some wins when he was on the mound. The bigger feature for our rotation will be a full season of James and hopefully a healthy full season of Hampton. And then I’m sure who ever has that 5th spot is going to be more servicable than most of our 5th starters were last season. It wouldn’t be too difficult. It’s a little easier than replacing Giles disappointing 2006 production.

Of course, an improved Hudson will only help the team. It’d help us keep the pen healthy for on thing. And it’d be a boost to the team confidence for another.
Intangibles, you know. They can really mess you up.

By Buzzerbean

February 21, 2007 04:04 PM | Link to this

Anybody else remember what happened the last time the Braves didn’t win the division????

…..1994 - they were going to lose out to Montreal

Cox didn’t need to light a fire under the boys in 1995 - they won it all!

By ernesto

February 21, 2007 04:05 PM | Link to this

So if Kelly Johnson has a stellar year is he eligible for ROY or did his brief stint 2 yrs ago count as his first year? It must have, it would be hard to imagine you could win player of the week and then 2 yrs later ROY.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 04:17 PM | Link to this

Buzzer: we got on a tear at that point. This time around, we’ll comeout on top.

GO BRAVES

By ernesto

February 21, 2007 04:24 PM | Link to this

No Chop- I really hope Pedro’s first game back off his extended DL vacation is with us. Didn’t we slam him right back to the DL in about 5 innings the last time he came off? Good stuff in an other wise bad year. But every team is entitled to an off year every decade and a half or so, right?

By Head Coach

February 21, 2007 04:30 PM | Link to this

The Mets Have Tom Glavine and a bunch of smoke and mirrors for a rotation. They do have the best offense and a steady bullpen. Just for reference sake Glavine has a career ERA of 3.46. The other NINE potential cannon fodder pitchers ALL HAVE ERA’s over four. No Chop Zone , Here’s to hoping your Mets score five runs a game , otherwise your toast and your bullpen will be worn out come September. And of course we here in Braves land look forward to watching Jorge Sosa doing his imitation of a Christmas tree ! as in …… lit up !

By Chop Chop

February 21, 2007 04:30 PM | Link to this

One thing to remember about Bobby’s comments about Lillibridge: Bobby also thinks Peterson T. Orr is a major leaguer.

That being said, Lillibridge has the talent to be a good big-leaguer. If he can live up to that talent and Gonzalez comes through for the Braves, dealing LaRoche was worth it.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 21, 2007 04:46 PM | Link to this

Hey O’Brien, about your comment about Lillibridge looking so young… I hate to break the news to you bro but as old man time starts to creep up on you all of them begin to look that way.

By TennesseePaul

February 21, 2007 04:46 PM | Link to this

Sosa did have some use though. He could smack a ball. I remember a couple times last year he killed the ball. I missed watching a game and saw the highlights that night. I remember when I first saw the highlight, I saw a guy up turn on a pitch and rocket it out of oth park. All I could think was, man Andruw just got a hold of that one. Then I did a double take, the guy wasn’t near as big as AJ. It was Sosa. The man who managed to either strike out or homerun when he was with the Braves. He had about a 150 average with 8 Ks and 3 HRs. giving him a 227 OBP and and 600 SLG. He had a better OPS than Francoeur last year. He filled in alright for Hampton in that regard I suppose.

By RC

February 21, 2007 04:55 PM | Link to this

ESPN has an interesting article up right now arguing that the Twins are making the right choice by allowing Torii Hunter to leave after this season. As much as I would like us to keep Andruw, the same arguments could be applied to his case.

Here is the article

By N8

February 21, 2007 05:01 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul

Nice points on Sosa’s (Jorge) bat.

Unfortunately, his pitching was SO BAD that half the time he didn’t even get up to the plate. LOL!

He might’ve been more effective than Pete Orr, off the bench though. YIKES!

By MetHater

February 21, 2007 05:04 PM | Link to this

As much as I love the Braves, we can still be non-biased about the race so let’s do that, shall we?

Mets: As much as we hated being disrespected every year we won the division and were picked against the following year, we can’t do it to them. They still have Glavine who continues to reinvent himself and be a reliable starter and the other guys have potential. Oliver Perez was a guy everybody loved 2 years ago when he was striking out well over 200, including a lot of Braves on a couple occasions, and could always regain whatever he lost with the teaching of Rick Peterson. John Maine showed flashes of being a major league calibre back of the rotation type of guy last year and most scouts like Mike Pelfrey a lot more than they liked Chuck James or even Kyle Davies. If these 3 guys pitch to their potential in the same way we hope our guys pitch to their potential, it should be a great race. They’re going to score runs and are going to shorten games with their bullpen so like us their pitching staff doesn’t have to be dominant for 8 innings, just 5 or 6.

Philidelphia: Much improved rotation with 3 front of the rotation type guys in Hamels, Myers, and Garcia and veterans in Moyer and Eaton. If Hamels and Eaton stay healthy and Garcia pitches like it’s 2005 not 2006 then they can be tough. They have one of the best infields in the majors, even with Wes Helms(punk), including the reigning MVP in Ryan Howard. Their outfield is above average defensively and will hit a little, and their major concern is that they do need more bullpen arms(but we’ve seen what you can do with a solid rotation and a suspect bullpen). I don’t think you can count these guys out.

Having said all that, I still believe the Braves have the most depth in the starting rotation with fill ins in Cormier, Villareal, and big league ready Matt Harrison and Anthony Lerew as well as in the bullpen where we have 10 legit big leaguers fighting for 7 spots. We signed backups on the infield in case Chipper gets hurt or the young guys falter, and insurance in the outfield in case Diaz doesn’t hit like last year or Langerhans doesn’t figure it out at the plate. Andruw will hit, Chipper will hit(when healthy), McCann will hit, Edgar will hit, and Franceour will be better this year. Kelly Johnson could be better than Giles was last year and Thorman will give us more than a little at the plate. We have more reason to be optimistic about this year than in a while and I can’t wait.

Go Braves.

By Taylor

February 21, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

Your 2007 World Champions… THE ATLANTA BRAVES!

By N8

February 21, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

Nice article about Grissom, on the Braves front page, if you haven’t read it.

True CLASS ACT. You’d be hard pressed to find a better guy when recalling Braves that “got away”. After all, didn’t he let Jermaine Dye live with him and his family when he got called up? Amazing. You can’t make that stuff up.

Seems to me, the ONLY World Series we won, was with him in CF.

We won before Andruw got here, and we’ll continue to win after he leaves. Sad? Yes……but true.

Baseball in the 90’ (er) 2000’s. LOL!

Isn’t it grand?

By Braves fan 202

February 21, 2007 05:18 PM | Link to this

Is idocic no chop zone still here. The mets are 1-14 in winning the last 15 divisions. We still got the same players and than some. Mets are good but no one can beat this great hitting and pitching braves team. Count on them to have a real season. good post DOB, nice to here updates from down there.

By N8

February 21, 2007 05:19 PM | Link to this

Taylor

“Your 2007 World Champions… THE ATLANTA BRAVES!”

What? Did you just finish another season on PS2?

You may be right, you may not be. No one really knows. But logic tells anybody with a grasp of common sense, that the Braves will be better than last year.

Good enough to win the Wildcard or maybe even the division? Not sure. But I like our chances.

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 21, 2007 05:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, have you listened to the Anthology of American Folk Music? a friend burned me the cds a while ago, and i’ve been listening to the stuff lately…really cool stuff. i’ve read that bob dylan took a lot from this genre and time period of music, but i never realized how much.

it’s nice that francouer (and everyone, for that matter) are in braves camp this year and will be for the entirety of it. what happened with the WBC? i mean, obviously, they decided not to have it again, but when did they make that decision? did so many teams/players/coaches voice their displeasure with the timing of it, and thus they got rid of it?

By mongo around the campfire

February 21, 2007 05:41 PM | Link to this

DOB,How is that kid from Richmond, Fred Stone, doing this spring? I hear he is rounding into shape and will be a BIG factor during the season. How does he train?

By MGL

February 21, 2007 05:55 PM | Link to this

Daybed - WBC is projected to be only once every four years and they are talking about changing the time of year.

By ElbravoX

February 21, 2007 05:57 PM | Link to this

Walk year Smoltz= Cy Young Walk year Jones= MVP Hampton will be the come back player of the year. This trifecta will produce WS rings.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 06:02 PM | Link to this

“No Chop - has Beltran reported yet, or is he still standing at the plate with the bat on his shoulder?”

HA!

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 06:04 PM | Link to this

“Branch Rickey used to say that teams are better off getting rid of a player a year early instead of a year late. The Twins have learned this lesson, even if many teams still haven’t.”

See! That’s what I’ve been arguing for the past week! Great article, thanks RC.

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 21, 2007 06:05 PM | Link to this

Most Honorable Southern, It may be true that Jimmy’s folks own the paper but kettle calling is not seemly as you too seem to have somehow survived … and in good form I might add … you’re priceless … and like Patton forgetting the Russians, I’m sure you didn’t mean to offend the orphans and the mentally impaired … now it’s up to you to demonstrate your worth.

The streak is over … history … time for a new beginning … eat the olives, drink the brine and accept the branch … let’s work together and celebrate the start a of new one by winning it all in 2007!

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 06:14 PM | Link to this

This article I was reading had this little tidbit at the end and it’s not good for Chipper…

“Well, it would help if he wasn’t a third baseman, the toughest position at which to reach the Hall of Fame. After more than a century of major league baseball, only 13 third basemen have been judged worthy of Cooperstown, and three of those played in the Negro Leagues. That means less than one third baseman per decade gets into the Hall. No other position has so few players in the Hall.”

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 06:16 PM | Link to this

“Also, the shift to DirecTV isn’t just about a short-term increase in revenue; it’s also being made in part to help baseball eventually get a TV channel that unlike the NFL package, won’t be a premium service.”

That would be sooooo sweet if they came out with an all baseball channel!

By mariner

February 21, 2007 06:17 PM | Link to this

DonC, I think that will work in Chipper’s favor, that there are so few third basemen in the HOF.

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2007 06:20 PM | Link to this

Somebody asked about Fred Stone. He hasn’t looked good at all, still rounding into condition.

By N8

February 21, 2007 06:24 PM | Link to this

VERY NICE FIND on the article, KC.

One could (though I’m not going to) argue that Andruw is a MUCH better power hitter than Hunter.

But I think the same logic applies, most definitely.

By ernesto

February 21, 2007 06:36 PM | Link to this

That would be Fred Stone the asst. visitors clubhouse manager?

By ernesto

February 21, 2007 06:39 PM | Link to this

Don C, that DirecTV deal is nothing but a screw job from MLB to its most die-hard fans, not matter how they try and spin or decorate it.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 06:46 PM | Link to this

Well, I guess if you don’t have DirecTV it seems like they are screwing you ernesto, but I’ve got it so I love it…

By ernesto

February 21, 2007 06:55 PM | Link to this

Don C, not just me amigo, lots of folks. But enjoy. and how it makes good biz sense to make your product less available to fans…well, that is Selig-esque.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 07:07 PM | Link to this

Totally off topic and out of left field… But does anyone know how to get vomit smell out of car upholstery? My buddy threw up all over the cab of my truck last night after the Ducks game and it STINKS! I cleaned and cleaned, Febreze, all kinds of disinfectants and deodizers, its terrible! Is there any kind of home remedy or a way to get rid of the smell?

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 07:19 PM | Link to this

DonCo: You might have to junk out your truck man!

ugh

By Stinky

February 21, 2007 07:20 PM | Link to this

nobody pull mongo’s finger.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 07:22 PM | Link to this

Thanks Wayne, (LOL), very encouraging…

By woogidy

February 21, 2007 07:32 PM | Link to this

Hey Don, You could say, thats good news for Chipper, meaning there aren’t that many who were deserving. I think the fact that Chipper is a switch hitter outweighs a lot of negatives for him anyways.

By DonCoburleone

February 21, 2007 07:43 PM | Link to this

Baseball Prospectus released their “Top 100 Prospects” List… 4 Braves in the top 100, but the highest rank is Salty at #51. The others are Matt Harrison(#79), Brent Lillibridge(#80), and Neftali Feliz(#97)… One question, who is Neftali Feliz? If somebody could clue me in I’d appreciate it…

The link…

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=5892

By Dustin from Dville

February 21, 2007 08:12 PM | Link to this

Im so excited about the start of the season ive been having dreams about watching the braves on TV! All you fairweather fans that are saying the braves will suck this year should go support another team. If we had the bullpen we have this year we woulda made the playoffs last year! I think thurman will do just fine at 1st base and i believe the braves will make a serious run to the playoffs. Our great run may be close to being over but as long as we have smoltz, chipper and andrew healthy for the playoffs the skys the limit!!

By MostHonorableSouthern_formerlyTheSouthernJackAss

February 21, 2007 08:14 PM | Link to this

You know “just Bob, plain and simple”, you just might be on to something there—I’ve been way over the line here—so as of this moment, I do hereby renounce my title of TheSouthernJackAss along with all the offensive rhetoric associated with same__and do take on the more genteel cognomen of “MostHonorableSouthern”, and will attempt to blog at a level that will cause me to be an insufferable bore just like the rest of you!!!…Ta Ta…Selah

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 21, 2007 08:19 PM | Link to this

…and I nearly forgot—an apology is in order, so I do apologize to all the orangutans and wildebeests that may have been offended by my earlier comments!…

By scott

February 21, 2007 08:29 PM | Link to this

Lots of angst over losing AJ next season, only getting a couple of draft picks, etc. Maybe two ways to look at this scenario: what will it take to keep him, and what is reality if we don’t.

Liberty Media “bought” the team primarily as a tax dodge, but as I understand it per tax regulations they’ll be required to hang onto the team for at least 5 years to fully realize the tax benefit. If they freeze or lower the expenditures (not only payroll, but other vital items such as the minor league system) the Braves will likely not win again and go into a decline which will be hard to recover from, and attendance will decline below the 25,000 or so per game they now draw. This will only lower the team value when they put it on the block in 5+ yrs. Not good business, and this is not a stupid company.

It only make sense that they will “invest” in their new asset - afterall they DO get a billion dollars in cash as part of the deal. Spending an additional $25 million or so seems like relative small potatoes. Take a close look at what Blank did after buying the Falcons - he lowered ticket prices, showed the fan base he was investing in the product and very quickly had a season ticket waiting list. LM should lower ticket prices to get more folks in the seats. Moreover they should up the payroll to keep players like AJ and Smoltz, showing the fans they care about the product, and “if they build it, they will come”. If these moves put only 10,000 more butts in the seats per game that’ll raise around $30 million more in revenue for the season, not counting parking, concession and merchandise sales. You gotta spend money to make money.

NOW, if they elect to be thrifty, AJ and Smoltz will be gone. However, even though we won’t get players in return as a result of a trade, the team will have over $20 million in salary space open up. They’ll then go after free agents to get the best players they can, not just who was expendable in an AJ trade deal.

Time Warner saw a winning franchise in spite of their lack of effort. I actually think LB will be better.

By journalist jimmy smith

February 21, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

apology accepted. virginia madsen often called this journalist her wildebeest. and how is southern this fine evening? it is good that we have a new start on things. does southern also plan to make peace with others to include dob? if so, bob will soon be working at the carter center.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

February 21, 2007 08:54 PM | Link to this

Scott, I agree with you some. I see Liberty Media maybe investing more into the minors and scouting. That way the Braves will be stockpiled with talent ala the Devil Rays and D-Backs which will keep the value of the team up because of the “potential” of the team.

I just don’t see Andruw staying. I think Renteria is gone as well followed by Hudson if Harrison and/or Lerew get it together this season in AAA. But, I still say the immediate future looks very good with Lillibridge, Bohn, Harrison, Lerew, Stockman, Escobar, B. Jones, and Campbell all a year or at most two years away.

By C Daddy

February 21, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this

The team is “hungry” and Andrew is “serious” in his contract year, so what were they last year, listless and bored?

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this

Ernesto, that’s him, one and the same.

DonC, that’s some bad stuff, man. Reminds me of a time in a New York cab, about 12-13 years ago…oh, did I feel bad for that poor cabbie.

Did leave him a good tip. Not nearly enough for his troubles, however.

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 21, 2007 09:23 PM | Link to this

Yes, jimmy smith, MostHonorableSouthern is fine this evening, thanks for asking by the way, and I am willing to make peace with one and all—“just Bob, plain and simple” will soon be worthy of the Nobel!…

By james

February 21, 2007 09:23 PM | Link to this

Don, these are Neftali Feliz’s numbers in the gulf coast league last year: 0-2record, 4.03 era 11 games, 5 starts, 2 saves, 29.0 IP, 20 hits, 13 ER, 0 HR, 14 BB,42 so,1.10 GO/AO,.192 avg

By Robert

February 21, 2007 09:30 PM | Link to this

“Me and another reporter were sitting in Bobby Cox’s office, just the three of us”

So what did you and this other unfortunate reporter do to deserve this punishment?

“He looked at us and asked us what we’d say to the team. …. Cox sounded as if he honestly wasn’t sure what the speech was going to be this year”

Right, like Cox EVER knows what he is going to say. WE all know that what he will say is “Hee Haw”. But HE hasnt a clue (what he is going to say, or otherwise)

“Players have always said Cox’s speeches before the first workout are gems, the first and sometimes only time he really addresses them at length, as a group”

Considering he has nothing of value to say, and doesnt what he is going to say anyway, what would the point?

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2007 09:33 PM | Link to this

DonC, Neftali Feliz is an 18-year-old Dominican right-hander, a lanky kid who throws “easy gas” as they say _ about 94-97 mph supposedly, and smooooth. Needs to work on his other pitches, but he sounds like a real big-time talent, live arm and body that should be able to carry 20-30 more pounds in a few years.

Last year in the Gulf Coast League, he had 42 strikeouts in just 29 innings (11 games, five starts), with 14 walks, 20 hits, 4.03 ERA.

He’s a long way from majors, for sure. Will be at Danville this year. I saw him rated 18th in organization in BA’s prospect book, but they weigh in factors including how close they are to majors for that particular rating.

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 21, 2007 09:34 PM | Link to this

Most Honorable Southern, I do need a job, and that’s no joke!

Jimmy, I think it’s the olive juice … just a touch of that … is good in most receipes, especially homemade soup.

The Carter Center … is that where Miss Jume and Mama Maybelle’s stuff is on display? I’ve never been to the Center but have thought many times of going back to that area for a visit … I’m told that the grounds include the location of our house during the war.

Interesting place that … lots of wild cherry trees … every once in a while us kids would find muskett shells in the woods out back where there were overgrown dugout areas in the side of the hills … a good place to get poison oak.

Gotta go eat before “Lost” and then watch some old tapes of Braves games from earlier years.

By Robert

February 21, 2007 09:41 PM | Link to this

“But it sure beats the alternative _ bored, taking things for granted, assuming this year will be like every other and the Braves will be in the postseason.”

Hello? Eart to DOB. Could it be POSSIBLE that the above was the first mistake of the season for many years during the meaningless streak?

And, um, could it be possible that this assumption of making the postseason was part of some of these past Cox gems you refer to (altho I’d be more inclined to call them “beauts” rather than “gems”)

And here, in this very same article, you admit that you were in Cox’s office, almost one to one (a FRIGHTENING thought) and he appeared CLUELESS ?(as to what he’d say)

Lord have mercy DOB - put two and two TOGETHER dude

Thank you and good night

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2007 09:48 PM | Link to this

Robert _ good night.

By ssiscribe

February 21, 2007 09:49 PM | Link to this

Put two and two together, and what do you get?

Four, last time I checked.

Or, you get such a biased, clouded view of a certain major league manager, having a reasonable discussion about pros and cons (of which there is both) is impossible.

Good night, indeed.

—30—

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 09:53 PM | Link to this

Does that last post from Robert (Bobby Cox incognito) mean that Bobby is off to bed tonight, never to tease us again this evening?

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 09:58 PM | Link to this

DOB: What I would give to spend a half an hour with BC just talking baseball. You are one lucky dude, as you get to live out the dreams of many of us baseball fanatics.

Lots of talk about Lillibridge today. In fact being a college guy, he should be ahead of most 2 year minor leaguers. Furcal advanced fast. Do you think Lillibridge might be the next McCann/Furcal/Francouer and show up sometime this season? It would be nice to be able to add one or two significant pieces to the puzzle each year.

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 21, 2007 09:59 PM | Link to this

Tweren’t nothing … Twern’t nothing?!

Those are words I’d expect from fans of other teams … or from Shawn’s experts … Robert’s not a scout, coach, or fan … he’s an expert of the first order!

By BB FAN

February 21, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE,

Reyes is the Mets bright spot. He was very consistant last year and likely will do the same this year. That’s why I did not mention him. He will have a great season but it takes more than one guy. I was pointing out all of the question marks the Mets have. They have as many as the Braves if not more. That was my point.

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

February 21, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

So, DOB, when do we find out whose comments will get used?

Also, have you heard what kind of chance TJ Bohn has to make the team?

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Robert (JITB): You have mentioned TJ Bohn a few times I note. Is he a relative or something, cause I don’t remember him having much of a resume (I admit I haven’t checked it tonight). I do like that name though, almost as good as “Rocko Baldelli”.

Hee Haw

By OddJob

February 21, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Not to be overly simplistic,but what the Bravos’ lacked last season wasn’t motivation, it was pitching !!

By OddJob

February 21, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

The name is Bohn ! TJ Bohn !

By Navigator

February 21, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Let’s see now, a right fielder that is above coaching (no strike zone). A center fielder that’s leaving, and two regular players that are bench players on any good team. An old has been pitcher trying to make a comeback as a starter, and a young starter that isn’t. Aging Chipper, and shortstop that’s seen his best years, and now he’s not rated one of the best anymore. A 70+ year old manager, a new owner, and a farm system that doesn’t produce great players anymore. Yeah folks, I going into this year really looking forward to the future

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

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

Navigator: Now, exactly what team are you analyzing, because it sure doesn’t sound like the Braves. I think you are on the wrong blog, and should find your way over to the Met’s blog, as it sounds like you might be talking about their team.

September will tell the tale…..

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

OddJob: Great..

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Navigator:

Hee Haw brother…

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 21, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

To DonCoburleone , There is a proudut called “Ozium” that you can get from a medical supply store or perhaps a large drug store. It comes in a small spray container but works better than anything I have ever used.

Good old baking soda (dry) will absorb a lot of odor too.

Plan B is for you to take the truck to have it detailed and send the bill to your friend.

By Wayne (or Rufus) in UT

February 21, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

just bob:

what’s all that stuff about eating olives and drinking brine and branches….you can’t get too deep with us southern boys, you know. We might drown in all that whachamacallit intellectual stuff.

Hee Haw

By Robert(Justice Is The Best)

February 21, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Navigator, if you aren’t going to get the facts straight and say stupid crap then just don’t blog. First of all, who ever said that Frenchy was above coaching? If you happen to notice said “coaching” seemed to be taking some effect in September last season. We may or may not have two players who are bench players on a “good” team but that remains to be seen. I’m assuming the “old” pitcher you are referring to is 34 year old Mike Hampton, whom would be viewed as a young buck on the Mets staff. Chuck James is most certainly a starter and this mindless horsecrap that he isn’t just needs to stop. It shows your ignorance. Chipper may be aging, but as he shown last year he is still one of the best players in the game. Renteria is as steady as they come. Cox is not 70 years old. And as for the farm system I really don’t know what in the hell you are talking about. The system doesn’t produce great players? Does the name Brian McCann mean anything to you? Jeff Francoeur? The Braves have plenty of guys in the minors with great potential such as: Lillibridge, B. Jones, Blanco, Harrison, Stockman, Startup, Jo Jo Reyes, Escobar, and Salty. C’mon, man. What is your problem?!

By AJK

February 21, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

DOB: Did Blanco show up?

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

I guess I can leave off Rufus since that other Wayne hasn’t been engaged all evening. The other Wayne, if you are out there you might want to change your posting name to something like “Wayne from Possum Kingdom” or “Wayne who is not a mamma’s boy” or something like that. You sure don’t want people confusing you with me. That would definitely be a downgrade for most of my blogging friends.

Hee Haw (that’s like me saying -30-)

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

DonCo: If you drive that truck out here to Utah, I will get that puke smell out of it. I’ll let my dog ride around in it with me for a while, and then you won’t be able to smell the puke from all the dog p1ss smell.

Anything to help a friend….

Hee Haw

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

Robert (JITB)

Well said, but… I would have just said, man you suck, or your mama wears combat boots, something like that. If you waste too much time on these malcontents, it is wasted time, as I suspect most are just her to try to push our buttons…..

Hee Haw

By Radar

February 21, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Wayne in UT, please drop the Hee Haw. We’ve been subjected to a lifetime quantity of it and we don’t enjoy it. You write good stuff - but please have mercy on us. It ain’t cute.

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Getting all “hopped up” on Diet Dr. Pepper here tonight.

Hee Haw

(where is everybody, it isn’t late yet)

By David O'Brien

February 21, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Robert (JIB), the comments are posted. Only had room for a couple in the story, and we put a bunch more in a separate fan-comment post in the paper (those are also online).

Bohn’s an outside shot, probably. No room unless they trade one of the current outfielders, I’d imagine (Diaz or Langy). I’d think Bohn’s much more likely to go to Richmond and provide depth, but we could definitely see him if there’s an injury or someone stinks it up.

Yes, Blanco arrived. I said in the morning post (or somewhere, it’s a blur now) that Bobby had praise for him this morning, that his name must have come up in a conversation Bobby had with scouts or Eddie Perez (who really likes the kid)….

Navigator, don’t mean to pile on, but that was a really sloppy post. By the way, Cox is more than old enough (66 in May) to eliminate the need for you to exaggerate about his age.

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

The Braves MLB site lists AJ as 6’1” and 210 lbs. Dude hasn’t seen 210 in 6-7 years at least……

Hee Haw

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Radar: This is my subtle way of digging at our friend Robert, who has a disdain for our leader, Mr. Bobby Cox. I have also adapted it as an adaptation of my friend ssiscribe’s -30- that tells me he is through. So, HH is a hard habit to break, but for you tonight, I will shorten it to HH. Besides, what negative thing does this remind you of. Did you not get enough hugs as a youth? (my attempt at trying to psychoanalyze you via cyberspace) I certainly would not purposely offend a fellow Brave fanatic. But, if you turned out to be a Met sympathizer, then it’s “Katie bar the door”, as the HH’s would return in full spelling.

HH (for Radar)

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

DOB: Bobby’s age of 66 used to seem ancient, but the closer I get to it, the better it looks. Like old folks and miners say, “Any day above ground is a good day!”

HH(for Radar)

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 21, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

One thing I will put money on, if they trade Langerhans or Diaz it sure won’t be to anybody the Braves will have to play.

I think it is way too early now to be thinking about trades. Most camps are going to see what they have got and play into march before really forming an opinion of who to keep and who to let go.

We are just one toe injury away from a complete makeover anyway.

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 21, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Wayne in UT… I read one of your earlier post about all the other folks here logging off just as you are logging on. I read the blog everyday, but very rarely post. So, I just didn’t want to talking to yourself on the blog here. And I feel the same as you… by the time I get on the Braves blog, everyone else has had their fun and left. Keep up the work, there are those of us out here who enjoy all the comments.

Go Bravos

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Just was checking out the Jones boys career numbers. I took their totals and averaged them over 160 games played (it worked out easy that way).

BA, OBP, SLG, HR, RBI,

Chipper: 304/402/542/32/109 Andruw: 267/347/505/34/102

We need to give Larry a raise….

HH (for Radar)

By Wayne in UT

February 21, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

CO Braves Fan! What part of CO? We are almost neighbors. How did you become a Braves fan (I was born and raised in SC)? How bout them Rockies? I love that park. Got food poisoning there once on some bratz though (a bad night) Oops, sorry about that DonCo.

Sometimes I feel like I am writing to myself, and probably, sometimes I am….I hope my humor doesn’t offend too many Braves fanatics though. I am one of those guys that if I had been born with a tad more talent, I would have been a lifetime minor leaguer, just trying to get to the show. As it is, I just live vicariously through my Braves.

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

CO Braves Fan:

Sometimes, late at night, some of the Braves and former Braves log on. It can be fun.

HH (for Radar)

By kdbanks

February 22, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

eware,

I don’t think what you’re smelling is a no-hitter from Smotlz. That’s just the stink of moving from VaHi to Marietta. Putrid.

Love ya kid, but had to do it.

KDB

By DonCoburleone

February 22, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

“The Mets’ youth movement continued with the signing of Sandy Alomar Jr. (No, not Alomar Sr., for those who are apt to make fun. Senior’s already a Mets coach.) No kidding, Alomar’s the sixth Met over 40. (There was a movement in Mets camp to claim Orlando Hernandez is not 40 — maybe they’re right, he’s probably 50.) GM Omar Minaya, who looks younger than a couple of his players, said he believes there’s nothing wrong with having 40-year-old players as long as they are the right 40-year-old players. Speaking for the over-40 set myself, and noting that Tom Glavine and Moises Alou are still excellent at what they do and 49-year-old Julio Franco is a Geritol miracle, I agree.”

By Chip and Smoltzie in FL

February 22, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

Utah dude: We are logged on together tonight (team commaraderie or something like that). Chip and I hope you are not making fun of our “Home Boy” manager, Bobby Cox with all that Hee Haw stuff. Just remember, I sent your son that check he asked for a couple of nights ago, and if I sense you are messing with Bobby, I will cancel that check. Actually, maybe I will send him MORE $$, that way he can tell you WHAT side is up! He might make YOU drive that old Chevy. How would you like that? Now, Chip and I are going to log off, as it is midnight, and we don’t want Bobby to have any reason to call us on the carpet. You know, he can be a mean cuss if you tick him off (ask all those umpires!).

If you think you are such a decent prospect, then come on down to the Dark Star, and lets give you a tryout. (we won’t send you back like they did that other guy!) You know, Satchel Paige pitched until he was about 75 or something, and you aren’t that old.

Chip and Smoltzie (WS in ‘07)

By ronp

February 22, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

This entire saga about Andruw is a bit nauseating..sorry to see his narrow avaricious side..glad we’re constantly reminded how lucky we were last time to get him for $13.5 mil aka known as the “hometown discount price.”

Who got more from the Braves? Just Chipper and Hampton whose salary was dictated by prior deals…so much for the “hometown discount.”

Not to mention the “humiliation” Andruw had to endure last season when his pride was bruised after Braves tested the market for his value; something they had to do knowing that Boras is involved. His “payback” to the team is not accepting a trade thereby ensuring the Braves won’t get anything for him…what a guy!!

Awfully nice of you Andruw to show up this spring in shape..what stopped you from doing this all along?

With Scott Boras churning the deal, it’s bye bye Andruw and thanks for the memories. No matter where you play, we know your heart will always be in Atlanta.

Don’t worry about us, we can always get a center fielder…all we have to do is buy one.

By Brian Jordan

February 22, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Don, my man, do you think the Mets might need an athletic and youthful 39 year old for some bench strength (I won’t be 40 until late March)?

Omar, give me a call dude.

By ColoradoBravesFan

February 22, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Wayne… I’m in Colorado Springs. I am active duty Air Force, that’s how I got to CO. I was born and raised in North Georgia, went to UGA… Go Dawgs. I became a Braves fan because, as the military moved me lots of different places(even Sumter SC at Shaw Air Force Base) I could always listen to Skip and Don on TBS. And every year that I have been in the Air Force except for last year the Bravos won the division. I am really looking forward to getting this season started.

Go Bravos…

By Reggie Sanders

February 22, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

Omar, forget Brian, he is old as dirt. I just turned 39 in December, so I would be one of the youngest guys on your team. I bet Drayton M, our “Home Boy” over here in KC would trade me over to the Mets if you would be willing to give up one of your unproven players, like maybe Reyes or Wright. Besides, it’s an odd year, and I kick “you know what” in odd years. Omar, make that call man, you won’t forget it. I will make you forget all about that Green kid you got in the OF.

By brian

February 22, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

how has Matt Harrison and Kyle Davies looked so far?

If Lillebridge is “ready for the big leagues” - might that be 2B if KJ is not the answer. I have to assume they want Lillebridge to get regular ABs, but if he tears it up in spring training or more likely at AAA, does not give KJ much wiggle room.

Also trading Renteria does not free $10 million dollars per year - it will clear $6 million thanks to the BoSox, and that my friends makes Renteria one of the best deals in baseball right now

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

CO Braves Fan: Can I extend my sincere thank you for your service to our great country! I mean that. My middle son has been in the AF for 2 months now, and is training at Keesler to go to Ramstein this summer. I am a very proud dad, to say the least.

I was in the AF for 4 back in the mid 70’s, and have followed the Braves since they came to Atlanta in ‘66. I loved Clete Boyer back then, although we only had him for 2 years I think.

Nice getting to know you!

HH (for Radar)

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 22, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

If any of these comments that have been posted this evening have been made by actual Braves players—then they are some of the most stupid AS$Clowns that have ever disgraced this blog!!!…

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Brian: Good pickup on Rent-a-SS, especially when the Sox are so kind to pick up nearly half the tab. I suspect if Lillibridge were to excel, it would be hard NOT to get him reps at SS. In addition to Lillibridge, we have lots of potential decent middle inf’s down on the farm, most are at least a year away or more: Escobar, Andrus, Pope, Campbell, and Holt. I really like KJ’s upside though, and I think we have to give him a chance to sink or swim, due to his bat potential. I could see him as a possible 2B or 3B in a few years, depending on who developed into major league quality talent.

Also, if somebody (Lillibridge?) were to take off this year, then Rent-a-SS would be easy to deal for some future talent, since he is so cheap through ‘08. What we really need is one or two more OF prospects. Maybe KJ eventually, or Salty or Thorman if Salty turns into a first sacker.

Whaddya think?

HH (for my buddy Radar)

By Chip and Smoltzie

February 22, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

SJA: takes one to know one…plus, you are admitting what you are in your name……

We are like peas and carrot, you and us.

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

You are correct SoJaAs. Those guys are a real piece of work. You tell them man!

HH (for Radar)

By UnderCoverLarry#10_notaBravetho

February 22, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

So, uhhhhhhh, ummmmmm, uh, um, uhhhhhhhh do you uhhh guys think that ummmmmm anyone will uhhhhhhhh…be able to um tell who I uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh am???…

By DonCoburleone

February 22, 2007 12:58 AM | Link to this

Good point Wayne, Renteria’s contract being only 6mil it makes him more valuable to the Braves as a trade piece. They could get some real quality in return. I do think it would be best to wait until the offseason though, give Lillibridge one more full year at AAA and bring him up for 2008. Then you could trade Renteria to a bunch of teams I bet… Look for teams like Cleveland or the White Sox next season to possibly be on the market for a relatively cheap All Star shortstop with playoff experience…

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 12:58 AM | Link to this

Larry #10

You speak with such clarity! Us slow witted southern boys appreciate when impotent folks accomodate us in that way!

HH (for Radar)

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 01:00 AM | Link to this

HH in Utah,

Thanks for asking about my vague comment!

I would have thought that someone living in Utah would understand about about brine with the Great Salt lake being there and all … but I can understand since I’ve been there several times and know it’s a big state. Truth is that it was only natural that I’d find a way to use brine in transition since David O’B brought the subject of the Braves resigning him just yesterday.

It wasn’t my intent to confuse no Southerners … I grew up thinking that I was a northerner since we lived in North East Atlanta … and that was not a pleasant experience for this young boy … thinking he was a damned Yankee!

No, just like my name Bob, I’ve always tried to keep it plain and simple … can’t stand folks that use dollar words when nickle and dime ones will do the job … sometimes even pennies are best when you’re just trying to give your two cents worth … it’s a question of fair market value.

My Mama was a Hatchett and when I read where someone had stuck one in Jimmy’s back, I thought they were talking bad about our family and got upset … even thought of asking David O’B to do something about it … but I ate some olives and had some of the juice instead … I was truly surprised how much better it made me feel … so it was only natural that I would want to share that knowledge with my friend, The Honorable Southern.

I now realize that the Branch reference was a little vague but another “H”, HK had earlier referenced the Long Branch and folks liked it! HK’s pretty complex and I couldn’t understand it either but figured that if it worked for HK then maybe it would for me too.

I hope that explains it … folks have oft reminded me that I sometimes need to watch my weight as I’m prone to eat too much of my own cooking … and I don’t think it’s a good idea to get too full of ones self … much better to have some olives and and a bit of brine.

That’s the truth, plain and simple …

“Eat the olives, drink the brine and accept the branch” … I may have to become a journalist like Jimmy, junior grade of course!

Selah

I’ve never met Selah but think she’s married to Mr. Bisher who has long been one my heroes!

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:01 AM | Link to this

Looks like our friend David (or as we say in the south, Daeyvuud) is not quite the party animal some of us supposed. As for me, it is hard to go to bed when you are all hopped up on diet Dr. Pepper.

HH (for Radar, are you still there?)

By UnderCoverLarry#10_notaBravetho

February 22, 2007 01:05 AM | Link to this

No problem there Wayne in UT__I always like to help out the inbred when possible!…

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:10 AM | Link to this

DonCo: To start, sorry for the “truck humor” at your expense. Some night when things are real slow, I will tell you about my experience with 2 freezers full of rotting meat. UGH.

I would agree, that it would be WAY contrary for the Braves to bring in a rookie to replace a proven vet in the middle of the year. I think it could happen if all the right pieces fit, but it is unlikely. I wouldn’t be surprised though if someone like Lillibridge or Escobar were truly lighting it up in the minors, got a chance to come up with the big club, and stuck as a back-up or part-timer. If you had a true top notch prospect that was killing it in AA or AAA, then came up and picked up in Atlanta at the same pace, how can you NOT play them. You don’t hold back a kid when they are really producing, but you keep Rent-a-SS for your insurance policy at least through the rest of the year. Of course, there are a lot of what ifs in my dribble here, I know. BUT, we didn’t coddle McCann or Frenchie too much in ‘05 did we?

You are right, lots of teams would love to pick up a Rent-a-SS to gap them to one of their prospects, similiarly to the way the Braves will.

Hope you all like the Rent-a-SS tag, as it fits, since the Sox own part of him, and he truly is a short term rental of 2-3 years.

HH (Radar, where are you?)

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 22, 2007 01:13 AM | Link to this

Damn!!! Uncle Bob, that was some deep shyt!!…plain and simple…way too deep for those just passin’ thru…oh, by the way, sorry to say, but I’ve had a sudden relapse, and regressed back to my former state of JackAssDome!!!…this bein’ civil ain’t goin’ to come easy for ol’ Southern__especially with all the imbeciles bringin’ out the worst in me!!!…Selah

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:22 AM | Link to this

just Bob Thanks for the explanation. I would like to read from the bloggin of the Journalist Jim, but sometimes his stuff goes way over my head. Not enough pictures for me…. As for Utah, yes, that darn lake out here is salty as heck, and stinks like a mother in the summer sometimes. I like a ways up the hill near Ogden, but can see the lake from my bedroom window. Some here get a kick out of my “southern ness”, and I let them have some fun at my expense. But, the last laugh is on them, for what they don’t know is that I am not lost out here, but actually like it! No humidity, and lots of snow, which I enjoy.

Larry #10 A question for you? If you divorced your wife and married her sister, would their mother be your mother-in-law, or your ex-mother-in-law? This has confounded me for years.

One last tidbit. If you want to learn how to say South Carolina correctly, then just say the words “Soccer” and “Liner” real fast together, and that will be the correct pronunciation. Also, when speaking of my alma tomater, the P might not be there, but it is certainly not silent. It is Clemp-sun!

Hope that clears up some stuff. You fellas are great, you know how to make a dumb southern boy feel like a fart smeller, or a smart feller, whatever.

HH (for my long lost buddy, Radar. Where, oh where has my buddy Radar gone, oh where oh where can he be??)

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:25 AM | Link to this

Sounds like the SJA is all hopped up on something tonight. You been drinking that diet Dr. Pepper too?

HH (for Radar)

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:29 AM | Link to this

I am glad all those players finally hit the sack. It would be most unfortunate if they stubbed a toe tomorrow because they stayed up too late blogging.

DOB must have a date with Bobby C tomorrow, as he has turned in early.

I will hang on for a few more minutes, and then I am going to give you all a break, and depart……

HH (my man, Radar)

By UnderCoverLarry#10_notaBravetho

February 22, 2007 01:35 AM | Link to this

Couldn’t answer that one for you there Waynebut I have a question for youIf you divorced your wife and married her sister, would your new wife still be your aunt??…thought maybe a good ol’ boy like you might know the answer to that one!…

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 22, 2007 01:42 AM | Link to this

TheSouthernJackAss gets hopped up at the thought of all the stupidity that these As$clowns spew day in and day out on this blog__and my a$s has nearly OD’d today!!!…

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 01:43 AM | Link to this

Honorable Southern, I can understand and emphasize with the difficulties … but I’ve found it to be well worth the effort … the kids used to call me “einstein” as an insult while the teacher called me “frank” … it’s good to have someone who understands me.

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:47 AM | Link to this

Larry, I think you got me marrying my mama, if I have decifered this correctly! Shame on me, but you know, my mama is a real looker…..

:-)

HH (nite Radar!) you too Larry!

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 22, 2007 01:50 AM | Link to this

Sorry Bob, and thanks again for the encouragement__I’ll stuff TheJackAss back in the box, and hope I don’t have to resort to applying his tactics again…

By little jack

February 22, 2007 01:55 AM | Link to this

little jack…frequent reader and seldom contributor.

of all the dumass people on this blog, the southern jackasss is probably the president of the whole shooting match of dumassses

he is probably a she, if the truth were known. most men aren’t such a pain in the backside as old southern seems to be.

have i got you pegged, ms jackasss

the blogger from decatur…..

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 01:58 AM | Link to this

Most Honorable? SouthernJackAss? Which is it?

Are you one of those shape shifters.

HH

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 22, 2007 02:06 AM | Link to this

Well Wayne—if you ever have to choose which one you would rather run into in a dark alley—you better pray it ain’t TheJackAss!!!…

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 22, 2007 02:09 AM | Link to this

When and where little jack—I’ll show you!…

By His Exalted Royal Highness Scherholtz

February 22, 2007 02:10 AM | Link to this

Just something to help keep us focused in the off-season, since I’m out of money.

Bulldogs expect to see improved Stafford in 2007 By Mark Schlabach ESPN.com

A year ago, when quarterback Matthew Stafford should have been preparing for his senior prom at Highland Park High School in Dallas, he was trying to navigate his way through Georgia’s playbook and mat drills, the team’s rigorous offseason conditioning program.

“It was tough coming in here within a month and a half of leaving high school,” Stafford, who graduated high school early, said. “It was hard going right out and competing on the field.”

It was much more difficult for Stafford when the Bulldogs actually started playing games last season. The former prep All-American, who as a senior led Highland Park to its first Texas state football championship in 48 years, couldn’t lead Georgia to victories over Vanderbilt and Kentucky in 2006.

Kevin C. Cox/WireImage.com Matthew Stafford led Georgia to wins in four of its final six games in 2006. After replacing injured starter Joe Tereshinski III in the Bulldogs’ second game, Stafford won his first two college starts. But when Georgia faced the meat of its schedule in the rugged SEC, Stafford struggled mightily.

The Bulldogs lost four times in a five-game stretch after their 5-0 start, including humbling losses to the Commodores and Wildcats. Stafford twice lost his starting job — first to redshirt freshman Joe Cox, who came off the bench to lead the Bulldogs to a 14-13 win over Colorado and started the following week at Ole Miss, and then to Tereshinski, who returned to start in losses to Tennessee and Vanderbilt.

“I learned you can’t take any team for granted,” Stafford said. “I learned you’ve got to prepare like you’re the starter, whether you’re the backup or not. You’ve got to get your team ready to play every week.”

The Bulldogs hope Stafford’s baptism under fire in 2006 will pay big dividends this season. After winning the starting job for good after the 24-22 loss to Vanderbilt, a team the Bulldogs had beaten 11 straight times, Stafford led Georgia to victories in four of its last six games. That winning stretch included a hat trick against ranked opponents to finish the season: 37-15 at then-No. 5 Auburn, 15-12 over No. 16 Georgia Tech and 31-24 over No. 19 Virginia Tech in the Chick-fil-A Bowl.

Against the Yellow Jackets, Stafford threw the game-winning touchdown pass to Mohamed Massaquoi with 1:45 left to give the Bulldogs their sixth consecutive victory over their in-state rivals. In the Chick-fil-A Bowl, Stafford rallied Georgia to 28 consecutive points in the second half to wipe out a 21-3 deficit against the Hokies.

“It was huge for us, especially with the way we won those games,” Stafford said. “We went into Auburn and dominated, had the game-winning drive and stop against Georgia Tech and then had a full-fledged comeback against Virginia Tech. It’s definitely something that helped our confidence and gets us excited about next year.”

The Bulldogs are excited about this season because Stafford grew up a lot as a freshman. The strong-armed Texan finished 2006 with modest production — he completed 52.7 percent of his passes and threw nearly twice as many interceptions (13) as touchdowns (seven) — but his decision-making and knowledge of the offense were markedly better at the end of the season.

“I think it’s something a lot of young quarterbacks go through,” Stafford said. “It was a tough run for a while, but you’ve got to show you can bounce back and stay confident. I was able to keep my confidence.”

Kevin C. Cox/WireImage.com Matthew Stafford rallied the Bulldogs past Virginia Tech in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. Stafford will have to be confident this season, as Georgia tries to keep pace with defending national champion Florida, Tennessee and improving South Carolina in the SEC East. The Bulldogs must replace three starting offensive linemen and tight end Martrez Milner, the team’s leading receiver. Seven signees enrolled early, including a pair of juco offensive linemen.

With even bigger losses on defense, including ends Charles Johnson and Quentin Moses and linebacker Tony Taylor, Georgia’s offense has to improve. The Bulldogs ranked 79th in Division I-A in passing last season with 184.4 yards per game and 90th in total offense with 311.8 yards per game.

Stafford wasn’t the only one to blame for Georgia’s struggles last season. Bulldogs receivers dropped far too many passes, and their quarterbacks were sacked 33 times. Worse, Georgia ranked 68th nationally in turnover margin, losing 15 fumbles and throwing 16 interceptions.

Massaquoi, who caught 30 passes and two touchdowns last season, said the team’s receivers struggled adjusting to the velocity of Stafford’s passes early in the season.

“It’s not an excuse,” Massaquoi said. “When it comes down to it, if a guy is putting the ball where it needs to be, you’ve got to catch it. He has a very strong arm, but he’s not one of those guys that just tries to impress people with his arm strength. He tries to put touch on the ball, too.”

Stafford’s improved play late in the season came after Bulldogs coach Mark Richt relinquished play calling. A longtime offensive coordinator at Florida State, where he coached Heisman Trophy-winning quarterbacks Charlie Ward and Chris Weinke, Richt called offensive plays during his first five seasons as Georgia’s coach. But before the Georgia Tech game, Richt gave those duties to quarterbacks coach Mike Bobo. Richt named Bobo the team’s permanent offensive coordinator before the Chick-fil-A Bowl.

“I’m really confident with him,” Stafford said of Bobo. “I think he’s got a great mind and I’m just looking forward to the years to come. I’m excited about working with him and bouncing ideas off each other.”

Massaquoi said the Bulldogs are excited to see what their quarterback will do in his second season, too.

“As last year progressed, he was getting more and more confident,” Massaquoi said. “He’s just one of those guys that’s a natural born leader and he commands everyone’s respect. His talent shows on the field. He hasn’t reached the surface yet; I think he’s barely scratched it.

And by the way, Tech sucks.”

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 02:17 AM | Link to this

Be nice!

Goodnight Gracie

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 02:17 AM | Link to this

Most Honorable: I would hope to be BESIDE you in that dark alley…Even tho I am a bit older these days, I am still a beeg boy as Rico used to say. I might not be fast, but if I got the other fella down, he would have a heckuva time getting up.

Besides, us southern brothers gotta stick together.

HH

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 22, 2007 02:20 AM | Link to this

Time to go—the pecker gnats are starting to swarm!…

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 02:30 AM | Link to this

Wow, did we hyper link to the college football blog? I am getting real dizzy and might pee my pants with all this non-baseball stuff. Quick, a couple of Braves facts to refocus: AJ is a great CF, probably not worth more than 15 mil though, Rent-a-SS while having limited range, is still a quality addition to the Braves, Smoltz is my favorite of the big three, cause he is still around……wow…I thought I was going to lose it for a while there. I think I can sleep now.

HH

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 02:33 AM | Link to this

Southern Gentleman? Are you still there? Is that LittleJack your son? or maybe your third alter ego?

Just wandering.

Nite and

Hee Haw (sorry Radar, couldn’t resist)

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 22, 2007 02:36 AM | Link to this

Well Mr. Wayne—don’t know about being BESIDE me—but depending on how you come at me will determine whether you leave there vertically or horizontally—oh and I’m kinda beeg myself, but that really wouldn’t be a factor!

By TheSouthernJackAss

February 22, 2007 02:40 AM | Link to this

little jack—go wake up your mommy and get her to put a dry diaper on you—you’ll feel much better—then get your a$s to bed—you’re starting to annoy the grownups!…and Stinky, you’re not smart, or clever bytch!!!…

By TennesseePaul

February 22, 2007 02:43 AM | Link to this

Sheeesh Wayne. You’re up at all hours. I as well, but this is SoCal. I have yet to run into DonC. you’d think with this close knitt of a blog and only 25 million people in the arm pit of California it was inevitable. Sigh… anyways, the pre-spring training festival is in full force. Think I’ll head up to Fairfax friday and catch Jon Brion. You can never fail when with that man. Alright that’s it. I’m outa here.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 02:50 AM | Link to this

Most Honorable:

Now I am getting too serious for this late at night. You make some great points. Beegness is not what determines the badness or the confidence in the man, huh. I have never been one to back down from a fight, but then again, I have very rarely had to fight (its been a long time!). What I have found to be interesting is that the beegness has caused others to not underestimate me, as they might someone of smaller stature. I remember when I was in my mid 20’s and had to walk about 6 blocks with a friend (he being black, I being not black) in a neighborhood of an inner city that neither one of us wanted to be in. It was obvious we were being watched for the majority of the walk, but nobody even hinted at making a move. At the time I attributed it to my beegness, but maybe it was just dumb luck.

So, now that I have waxed serious, I have given myself a headache. See, it doesn’t pay for me to get too serious.

Good night for now, as I have to drive 200 miles tomorrow to inspect some beeg construction equipment at a customer site. Everything I do is beeg out here in UT.

Later.

HH

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 02:54 AM | Link to this

Tenn Paul:

I have been intrigued by our Southern Gentleman and his alter ego tonight. It is even late here in Utah.

Later

HH

By little jack

February 22, 2007 02:55 AM | Link to this

wrong again…

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 22, 2007 03:10 AM | Link to this

Wayne—I remember my mid 20’s also—6’8”, 260lbs. thought I was beeg too, little did I know that I would grow another 3” and gain another 50lbs…never been in many fights, but I have been involved in a few a$s kickins’…but now only if absolutely necessary…would rather rely on discussion and humor to bring about detente…but it depends on the mule as to whether he gets oats or hay!…

By TennesseePaul

February 22, 2007 03:21 AM | Link to this

One last thought.

I saw, up above, a post by someone, Nathan, or KC… concerning dropping a great player a year early as opposed to a year late. There was a link to an article. I think this has merit. But, it is a gamble, like all of life. (The buzz must be fading. Or maybe it is in full force because this is just moving out of me). The caveat to this is the Boston Red Sox and Roger Clemens. At the time he was originally removed from that team, it was under the guise of “better too early than too late.” That was 1996/1997. It led to one of the best Sport Center commercials.
Sport Center anchors and analyst sitting around a conference table in an office building debating if the Rocket had truly lost it. One anchor claims he has. Just then the Rocket walks by the door to the conference room. Keith Olbermann calls him in to settle the debate. The Rocket picks up the nay-sayer and tosses him across the room. Some one else has a radar gun which registers the toss at 97. Case settled. The Rocket still has it.
Anyways, 10 years later and the guy is still putting up Cy Young caliber seasons. Clemens is a hall of famer. The hall is reserved for these freaks of nature who continue to produce well beyond the statistical norm and at rates well above the statistical norm.
I’m not saying AJ is one of these guys. He could be defensively, but his batting average suggests his offensive contributions are tilted more heavily towards a certain aspect of the skill than the overall dominance of the offensive side of baseball.

Now the buzz is coming back. Maybe this whole post was merely to reminisce about a funny commercial. Or to highlight a rare exception to the rule. But whatever. My point originally was ,I think it was a matter of, even the experts can be wrong. Even when we think a player is primed for decline, he can still come back and out perform every other player in the game. Maybe AJ is that type. Maybe not. All I know is, he is a Brave. And the non-economical, personal bias, side of me says: sign the guy. Keep him and Smoltz here with a Tomahawk on their chest. Because maybe, just maybe, they are the exception to the rule.

One of the other best Sport Center commercials was Mark McGwire on a spy-date. That was just too funny.
McGwire at dinner on a first date telling a story: So then the guy pops out a can of spinach, squeezes it into his mouth, and his muscles just ballooned. Then he beat the tar out of the guy…
Date: So, do like pitches high and inside or low and away?
Zoom in on fake spy flower pinned to dates clothing. Clip to several pitchers in a minivan on the street: Ask him if he thinks I’m a good pitcher.

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 03:30 AM | Link to this

Southern Gent

I can’t believe I am still up. I got a heck of a lot of ground to cover tomorrow. Good talking.

6’11” huh? I am only 6’1’, but when younger, a fairly formidable fellow. Once in the AF, I almost threw another airman out a third story window, but didn’t. I was never really going to, but the other dude and all the other guys watching didn’t know I wasn’t going to. Funny how one little incident can keep guys off your back if they think you might be just crazy enough to snap one day.

At nearly 52, not a lot of worry about coming across as being tough. I think most of us are, when our backs are against the wall. Some know how to react when faced with a crisis, some don’t. My daddy taught me that if faced with a fight, make sure there are only two hits. You hit the other guy, and he hits the ground. Only had to use that twice in my life, and it worked like a charm.

Now, as a gray haired, overweight old fart, I have to use my Convertible to feed my ego. It’s heck when the body starts to slow down, and the soul doesn’t want to!

Later, and this time I mean it!

6’11” huh……wow…..

By Gary

February 22, 2007 03:35 AM | Link to this

Just read a great article about Andruw’s legacy Link: here

By Wayne in UT

February 22, 2007 03:36 AM | Link to this

Tenn Paul: The 100 million dollar question is: Are you willing to bet on Andruw being like The Rocket?

For my money, when he can’t even control his weight, no thanks. Besides, Clemens has ALWAYS taken good care of himself, or at least up until now. He looks to be ballooning up as he gets older. Age, anabolic, HGH, who knows?

Later, like in tomorrow night.

Good commercials!

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 06:45 AM | Link to this

Early this morning when I should have been asleep, I felt the urge to pretend I was one of Shaun’s experts and analyze things … It’s my expert opinion that any wisdom I might have is because of other people … including many residents of this neighborhood.

Very few people have crossed my path from whom I haven’t learned … and the exceptions are most likely because of not my paying attention or other own limitations … not theirs.

Aesop, Poor Richard and Polonius … most all else I know, I’ve learned from them … and from Mama … “If you can’t say anything nice, then don’t say anything at all” was first penned over 2,500 years ago, but I learned it from her.

It’s so old that I pondered if it might be “old fashoned” and out of style … but I figured if it was good enough for Aesop and Mama, then maybe I could modernize it a bit “If there’s nothing nice you can say about someone, try getting to know them better!”

I try not to engage in false flattery with folks I don’t know well … that creates monsters … as an expert, I’ve developed statistics that show there’s nothing uglier than a pretty girl who’s become enamored with her own beauty nor dumber than someone that’s enamored with their own brains or success. My expert opinion is that it’s the safest course of action when your mother or your wife asks you how they look … but generally, it ain’t a good idea!

I’ve always found it to be true that if you offer respect and are nice, you’ll usually get it in return … but, you don’t have to rely my expertise for this one … just turn the channel to the Animal Planet Network and watch vicious animals being transformed into loving pets.

Contrary to what you might think … humans are not immune to “Hoof in Mouth” disease either and it’s prevalent among bloggers, take it from an expert! Whenever I come under attack for something I’ve posted, I can’t just ignore it like some folks … but I always try to understand what prompted the attack before responding in kind … could be I accidently stepped on Chippers toes when he wasn’t wearing shoes.

I must admit that pretending to be an expert for a minute was fun … but the truth is that I just appreciate and like people … just want them to strive to be the very best they can be … and that makes me a fan, not an expert.

Some may think I’ve been having fun at Shaun’s expense with references to his experts and such … but, I assure you that he was but a conduit for my feeble efforts at self expression. He brings an added dimension to our discussions and his posts are usually well conceived.

It just happens to be my expert opinion that statistics and analysis are things with which we should not triffle … they’re powerful tools, that’s for sure … but their preoccupation can lessen your enjoyment and appreciation of the game!

Statistics can’t give you old Enos scoring from first in 46, Bobby’s Magical Home run in 51, … or our own “speedy” Sid scoring from second on a single to left.

I hope most folks will allow me my ramblings … it’s early spring training for me too … and I didn’t stay in shape throuhout the off-season like some of you. Be patient and I’ll try to improve my behavior, I promise!

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2007 07:15 AM | Link to this

BRAVES ARE TALKING TO ALBIE LOPEZ, OF ALL PEOPLE….

Kidding. Just checking to see if you’re awake….

Bob, good morning. Sounds like you’re on my spring training schedule _ bed at about 12:30 a.m., wake at 6:30 a.m., leave house at 7:30.

Fortunately that’s just six weeks for me. Then back to “normal” schedule _ bed about 3 a.m., up about 9.

By tfbrave77

February 22, 2007 07:31 AM | Link to this

Man I had a good breakfast this morning. Consisting of eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, biscuits and gravy. So good. Too bad I just threw it all up after reading your post DOB. Where can I send the bill for my dry cleaning? :)

By Shaun

February 22, 2007 08:06 AM | Link to this

Bob,

It’s not the experts, per se, that say players generally peak in their late 20’s, it’s the evidence.

Much like the evidence says the earth is round, not the scientists. The scientists just rely on the evidence more than intuition.

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 08:08 AM | Link to this

Sleeping from 3 to 9 has been my habit too over the last 15 years but for the the few, I find myself indulging in some daytime naps … it may be Spring Training … but I’m learning I’m not a Spring Chicken.

Still, though I’m rusty, posting over the last couple of days has rekindled some of the passion … nothing like an old fool being one … but it has been fun reacting to what folks say and the posts have been informative too.

Keep up the good work … like someone said, we do what we gotta and what we can.

By Shaun

February 22, 2007 08:30 AM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Nice post about Rocket. But one thing to consider is he’s a pitcher. Seems that the freaks of nature that last well into their 40’s are mostly pitchers, probably because pitching is about throwing a ball. Not trying to take anything away from the Rocket or Moyer or Glavine or Smoltz or any other 40-something pitcher. They are all amazing and deserve nothing but praise for keeping themselves in playing condition.

But position players must have excellent eyesight, hand-eye coordination, decent speed—all things that fade with age.

I’ve read that Andruw Jones projects more as a Juan Gonzalez type as he ages rather than a Willie Mays type. Andruw’s speed has already showed signs of decline.

It looks like AJ has some great years left because of his power and defensive instincts but it looks like the odds are against him being an MVP-candidate 5, 6, 7 years down the road—toward the end of a long-term contract.

By Bryan

February 22, 2007 08:49 AM | Link to this

I almost threw up on my laptop DOB reading your little joke… . is there an opening in the humor section of the AJC i don’t know about? Are you trying to start a comic strip fan blog? (I wonder if Robert hates Charlie Brown too … )

Current topics and my thoughts …

Think Javey Lopez. The braves made the right move with our own J-lo by letting him walk when the O’s dumped money his way. I was wondering this morning if the Andruw situation should be handled the same way (yes Andruw is a much better player, but the risk involved in keeping him is even higher than lopez. Re-signing Andruw Jones is the biggest question the braves have faced since… well since this whole winning thing got started. Bigger than Mad Dog, Glavine, or even Smoltz (for a number of factors, including current budget and other personnel we need to lock up, and this is a player who is under 30).

Thing McCann and Frenchy - We need to sign these guys to long term deals as soon as we find out from Liberty what our financial restraints are. I understand not committing to long term deals when ownership is about to change, but now is the time to get these guys paid and locked up for a few years.

Dave, thanks for the quote in the paper, my myspace page has been lit up.

By Stinky

February 22, 2007 08:53 AM | Link to this

Was Bob an acquaintance of the fabler?

By Michael A.

February 22, 2007 09:16 AM | Link to this

Man, it seems like it was just yesterday when Andruw was that fresh-faced kid who just launched two bombs in Yankee Stadium and the Braves were on their way to their second world title in as many years … sigh …

By KC

February 22, 2007 09:54 AM | Link to this

Went to the Hawks vs. Spurs game last night. Had a blast… especially since I’m a Spurs fan.

That’s the first game I’ve been to at Phillips Arena. Very nice place.

I must say though that the ushers there are sad, rude, unhappy little people… well, at least the one in section 114. I’ve had much better usher experiences at Turner Field.

Can’t wait to hit the Ted. Hurry up and get this show on the road!!! Every day leading up to opening day just seems to go by slower and slower!

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

David, my 1:00 AM post … was after a long day and … and I was tired!

Shaun, Some folk’s “intuition” is better than other folk’s evidence … an old math teacher up at Princeton named Al Arock, I think his name was, comes to mind.

I just think it’s easy for folks to take the romance out of the game when they over analyze; overuse and abuse statistics … statistics don’t energize me like Country Brown’s drag bunts or a red faced Gene Mauch … whose tirades made Bobby Cox look like a Choir Boy in church … back when he was a player/manager for the Crackers … nor do they tell of the mental and emotional anguish folks go through when they’re called into Bobby’s office toward the end of Spring Training.

I strongly support the management of the team using all available tools in making its decisions … including “intuition” but, to me, the game is Bobby Cox in full uniform, including cleats, greeting his boys as they arrive for Spring Training … transitioning of course, but we’ve just been witness to perhaps the greatest run in all of sports’ history … remarkable … and your statistics should show you that … the Vegas line on it happening any time soon is long indeed … but I don’t need them to tell me that!

Those who mock our Mister Cox … and point to negative outcomes as a result of particular in game decisions decisions as proof/evidence of his managerial ineptness, may know more about baseball than me but they haven’t a clue when it comes to managing … you can might find a million better strategists … but Bobby is one in a million when it comes to managing!

My intuition tells me that if we looked at the evidence we’d probably find that the managerial records of the “managers” out shines those of the “strategists” … it also tells me that I’ve said more than enough …

Selah

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

I haven’t counted … I may be 2,500 years old, if you count all of my past lives … sometimes I feel like it!

No, I never met the fabler but I used to sleep at the Holiday Inn a lot.

By Shaun

February 22, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

Bob,

Actually, it’s my humble opinion that statistics increase the game’s romanticism. Stats are a way we measure players against the “ghosts of the past,” as the Ken Burns documentary put it. And often times the romanticism of the game shows up in the stats. We have this romantic ideal of a player who puts up certain numbers.

By April

February 22, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

I’ve never posted here before but I love baseball and I read this blog religiously. I am a former Miss Tall Atlanta and frankly, I adore tall men - really tall men. Do I understand correctly that a blogger here is 6’11” tall? What a man he must be! I am interested in meeting this very tall blogger. Honey, are you straight? Are you interested? Would you like to play catch? Maybe we can take in a game together when the season starts if you’re all that you say you are. April

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

There’s everything right and nothing wrong with an honest difference of opinion … with the possible exception of Robert … and don’t let me tell you or him otherwise!

By Head Coach

February 22, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

According to MLB.com , Andruw Jones has been quoted as saying he would like an eight year contract from the Braves similar to what Alfonso Soriano received from the Cubs. I’ll be the first one to tell you folks , that ain’t ever gonna happen. Not even Greg Maddux ever got more than a six year contract from the Braves and that was when Ted Turner was the owner. The Braves consistently hand out four to five year contracts to the biggest stars on the team. Don’t try to mention Hampton , the Braves inherited that contract. My point is a simple one : If Andruw wants eight years , he will get it from some other sucker of a baseball franchise and 2007 will be his last in a Braves uniform.

By just Bob, plain and simple

February 22, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Shaun, as you (and everyone else) … have surely guessed, I have my days and nights confused … trying to use my intuition and all in anticipation for the game with the Trade School … so I apologize for all the sloppy posts and assure you that there’s no evil intent in any of them … a little devilish and out of character perhaps … it’s a hot tub and a nap for someone feeling tired but a bit younger than “stinky” would have folks believe.

By TennesseePaul

February 22, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

Payne: These freaks of nature are just that. Pitcher or hitter. To fit the bill “freak of nature” would require that it isn’t the norm and is very rare. Guys like Julio Franco. I don’t think he’ll make the hall of fame though. So maybe he is one of those uber freaks that can still produce effectively but not exceedingly.
Anyways…

By Sticktobaseball

February 22, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this

DOB, seriously know one gives a damn about your crappy taste in music or the fact that you can copy and paste bad country lyrics off the internets. Did Rolling Stone start a “hillbilly edition”? Cuz you seem to be auditioning…

By TennesseePaul

February 22, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Watch out now. El Duque is headed back to New York with stiff neck. Sounds like that rotation is rounding out real well.

By KC

February 22, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Head Coach: Agreed. IF payroll is boosted to 90 or better… Andruw might get something close to 17-18 million a season over 6 years. Again, he might get that offer if the Braves get another 10-15 mill a year to spend. But there’s no way he’ll get 20 mill a season or anything more than 6 years here. Absolutely no way.

By Voice of Reason

February 22, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Just Bob: Nice to read your posts again. I, myself, haven’t posted much for a while as I have been very busy with work and family commitments, but I have still tried to read as often as possible. I have no other particular insight to add today other than I am absolutely geeked about the start of Baseball 2007! I have been wearing my Braves gear for a couple of weeks now, prompting a few raised eyebrows around the house. But with my son’s wrestling season winding down, I can turn my attention fully to Los Bravos.

BTW - JJS: How is the ukelele coming along? Does it attract wahinis? Just wondering…

By KUNIFA

February 22, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Does anyone read all these? Does anyone do ” full time work “anymore? I love the Braves..native and true fan! Wait till next year :)

By eware

February 22, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

DOB, I’m suddenly feeling the need for some good country lyrics. I’m thinking something like Waylon.

Eat it, sticktobaseball blogger.

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 22, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Thanx for your concern Tennpaul. I’ll let El Duque know you were worried about him.

By TennesseePaul

February 22, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Does anyone do ” full time work “anymore?

HA! Full time work is for suckers! We’re just livin’ the dream.

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 22, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

April—post a valid email address, then if that pans out, you can then prove your identity, including all personal information, with recent photos—and then just maybe I’ll show you how ‘big’ I am—as far as meeting me, or taking in a game, that’s not going to happen, I can already tell that you’re a little butch, and I prefer a feminine woman—so until all the above happens, and you prove me wrong, I will assume that you are that whiny little jerk Stinky, in drag!…

By ncscoots

February 22, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Can you long-time bloggers feel it? The blog shaking off the effects of winter? During the offseason, we don’t have someone’s oh-for-four or five-and-two-thirds to gnaw on, and we denzines tend to turn inward and feed on ourselves. Makes us cranky. Not to mention giving the blog a somewhat ripish odor at times.

But, so be it, and no matter. While the calendar marks spring with the equinox, we all know it truly begins with PCR. And the blog starts budding out, soon to bloom. Maybe this year we get a classic thread to rival the all-time champeen (banana pudding). For sure, we’ll scratch our heads over some DOB Math, and someone will attempt to clary. We’ll get obscure Shakespearean references and rambling eloquence, baby seals and big yellow clown shoes, contrary lawnmowers and Drive-By Truckers. As some unremembered (sorry) blogger said, we’re an eclectric bunch. Oh, sure, we’ll talk BASE-ball, all the BA, OBP, should-have-bunted-should-not you want, with scads of posts from both the quick and the clueless (and hurrah for both, say I). But here…here when you mention you liked Val Kilmer in Tombstone, you find out he’s related to the woman who wrote “Trees”. Think you get that on Buster Olney’s blog??? Ha!

I feel it. And maybe it’s just because when I saw the sun peek over the Carolina pines this morning, I saw a day full of promise with the Braves tied for first, LOL. Gets me going pretty good. Geeked about the season? That ain’t the half of it, bubba.

And, now, baseball…

By David O'Brien

February 22, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG POSTED (with lyrics, for mr. sticktobaseball)