Braves

By Rodger

February 26, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, the way you hate Orlando makes me think you got burned on a timeshare there!

By SeattleBrave'sFan

February 26, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

DOB: GREAT STUFF AS ALWAYS. I CAN’T TELL YOU HOW PSYCHED I AM ABOUT THE BULLPEN. EVEN WHEN WE HAVE HAD DECENT PENS OVER THE LAST 15-20 YEARS, THEY NEVER SEEMED TO HAVE GUYS WITH THE ARMS AND ATTITUDE THIS PEN IS DISPLAYING SO FAR. OUTSIDE OF THE 3 GUYS, WHO ELSE IN THE BULLPEN MIX HAS LOOKED GOOD? ANYONE NOT ON THE RADAR LOOKING LIKE A DARKHORSE FOR A ROLE IN THE PEN?

By ncscoots

February 26, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

One of the things I find intriguing about Thorman is his seeming ability to adjust to higher competitive levels. In the minors, each time he was moved up a level in the middle of the year, he struggled initially. Starting the next year at that same level, he raked. Hope that holds true for this year, eh?

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

This is the earliest I’ve ever got a post in…

By kdbanks

February 26, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

DOB -

Just posted this on the old one, so I’ll transfer to here. You mentioned no American actresses carrying on the gorgeous tradition…

Did you see Reese Witherspoon? WOW! Good thing for all of us that she’s newly single and looking to make her old man regret leaving her.

And she’s got kids. Man oh man.

By Bob, journalist

February 26, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

David O’B, Is it safe to assume that Bobby really likes Thorman’s “hard swing” rather than being a little concerned that he is overswinging … maybe trying too hard?

35, my sincere apologies. The mispellings, deleted words and general sloppiness in my earlier posts bespeak my mental condition this morning … that, or I must be an imposter cause one thing I truly hate is poor “penmanship”!

Maybe I just have a hangover from mourning the loss of the Honorable Southern from the Blog … one insightful dude … I’ll admit that he could certainly be a pain as the Southern Jackass, but he admits that too and that could be said of many, if not most, of us.

From my perspective, we simply can’t afford to lose those who oppose apathy and hypocrisy … they’re an endangered species.

By Art in Tenn

February 26, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

DOB-

Thanks for another great blog. Are the Braves concerned about Salty’s fall off in performance last year, and is he in camp? What level do you think he will start in?

Thanks again for the good work and great music from Dark Star…

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 26, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Wow, what a weekend here in South Arkansas. Tornadoes all over the state. We got lucky here. Had one pass about 15 miles East of us, but only had a few strong winds and a whole lotta rain in my hometown. I did get to do a little turkey hunting Saturday morning, and killed my first one with a bow, just a couple of hours before the storms hit. TOP THAT, HOSS!!!

Speaking of Chipper, I found myself thouroughly disappointed at his 5 music selections. Rascall Flatts for Pete’s Sake????

DOB, I didn’t see the show, but I’m assuming Wahlberg didn’t bring home any hardware?

By ssiscribe

February 26, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, who else is pitching Thursday against the Dodgers and the weekend games? Just wondering who we’ll see on ESPN throwing it Friday.

Later on.

—30—

By ernesto

February 26, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Glad to hear Thorman’s got a mighty cut, but a lot of times, big, powerful swing = a whole lot of whiffs. The last thing this line up needs is another windmill, I hope he makes good contact too.

By braveheart

February 26, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

but ernesto, the big whiffs might be helpful when hudson is pitching. they might help cool him off while he is wilting in the humid Hotlanta summer :-) just kidding.

By WRBravesfan

February 26, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

How does Davies look??

By Kieran from Long Island

February 26, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

David, good job calling all those oscar winners, 3 and a half out of 4. I thought it was a decently entertaining show, better then most years.

I might be showing my New York Qualities here, and If I am blindly criticizing, please tell me, but is it not fair to criticize Willie Aybar right now for not being in camp? I mean, this is a guy who has almost inherited a role on this team rather then earned it, I felt at times last year he played lazy with too big of a swing and now he’s got Visa problems down in DR?? By no means should he be a lock for this roster, I would hate to see a guy like Pete Orr who ALWAYS busts his but be left off because he’s a little less attractive for scouts. I feel like Bobby has almost tricked himself into thinking that Willie is Wilson Betemit and that he wasn’t traded to the Dodgers for the Exploding Appendix. Get your lazy arse to camp and show me you belong on this team, and get your damn paperwork taken care of ahead of time, did you not know when Training Camp starts?

Once again, I know nothign of the process by which it takes to get a VISa, but soemthin seems a little bogus to me, I’m not sure, fill me in please Dave, thanks

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 26, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

DOB,

My next question was going to be: “Whose stuggling/notimpressive,” but looks like you answered it.

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Ernesto, he’s making contact so far _ but it’s just batting practice.

Hillbilly, Wahlberg lost to Alan Arkin for best supporting actor. Either was cool with me. Both great performances, but I liked Wahlberg’s a little more.

Art, yes Salty is in camp. Don’t know that I’d say they’re “concerned” about his performance. If he struggled again at Double-A, they’d be concerned. For now, they’ll assume like a lot of young guys he had some injuries and an off year in his first season in the higher levels. As Bobby said yesterday, “We still like him a lot.”

In fact, he’s still their No. 1 -rated prospect, for now.

Scribe, other pitchers scheduled Friday (after Smoltz) are McBride, Moylan, Boyer (if his finger’s OK), Villarreal and non-roster invitee Steve Colyer

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

I agree Ernesto, too many strikeouts on the team last year. (That along with a lack of speed were my 2 biggest problems with Atlanta’s “O” last season). But, I’m hoping we may end up being a little bit better in the strikeout department this year. Adam LaRoche had 128 strikeouts in 492AB’s last season (1SO every 3.8AB’s) while Thorman had 21 strikouts in 128AB’s (1SO every 6.1AB’s). So as much of a “hacker” as Thorman is, he still projects to have less strikouts than the guy he will be replacing. Thor just needs to work on his pitch selection, the guy made Francoeur look picky last year (registering only 5! Walks in those 128 AB’s!)…

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Kieran, it has nothing to do with being lazy. He’s not in camp because he doesn’t have a visa to leave the country. Whether that’s at all his fault, I don’t know. Braves say it was just a matter of last-in-line with Soriano, but the trade might’ve had something to do with his delay, since Seattle had originally applied for his visa.

Don’t know what else to tell you regarding Aybar. They haven’t indicated that it was his fault, but I’d say if he misses a few more days, we might hear otherwise. They’re not ready to throw him under the bus … yet.

By 10-7-4

February 26, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Bob,journalist—well said. Clint was beginning to think that he may have had a ‘round’ with you too! :-]] Lew— Clint wants to know if you have ever been to Lakeview Ga.??

By TDub

February 26, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the great info as always. Nice to know that I’m the only one who sees Cate Blanchett and starts howling, too…

Man, I’m ready for some baseball. I’m so excited for this year.

By Greg in TN

February 26, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

Afternoon ladies and gents…

It seems as if things are beginning to fall into place in the land of the Mouse. DOB, I loved the update on Thorman. It’s a shame he didn’t hit in the same era as Bert Blyleven. Sounds like the kid could hit one of his trademark hangers to Chattanooga. The thing I like hearing the most is that Thorman appears to be smacking the ball good, and more importantly to all fields. I do hope he has some patience from the standpoint of not trying to press if he gets a couple of 0’fers early in the year. With a young guy, an 0 for 6 can quickly turn into 0 for 22 if he starts to press. I have faith that TP will make sure that he is reminded that.

I saw Marcus Giles’ comments on being non-tendered. I can understand where he’s coming from, and it’s easy to say that you’d do something different if you’re in JS’s shoes, but it’s a totally different thing to actually sit in the GM seat. I agree with what Gil said yesterday. First at bat, Giles needs to have a nice warm round of applause and cheers from the Braves faithful, then we all move on.

By 10-7-4

February 26, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

DOB— your report brought back memories of other hard ‘swingers’. Did you ever see ‘the Mick’? He said he tried to kill the ball on every swing. I guess the prettiest swing I ever saw was Ted Williams and Bob Horner. Williams was just so fluid, and Horner was very compact-no wasted motion. Course, considering how lazy he seemed to be, it made perfect sense.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 01:01 PM | Link to this

I would have to agree about Aybar… Get your sh!t together and get to Florida! He has to be at least partially to blame for still being in the D.R…

By D Rock in Scotland

February 26, 2007 01:11 PM | Link to this

Give Aybar a break. Those visa people do not mess around these days, and they aren’t particularly friendly. I was interested to hear Escobar refused to play 2nd base. That’s the kind of thing braves brass would really frown on I think.

Looking forward to seeing what Thorman can pull off this year. I liked what I saw last year.

On the Oscars, it’s about time Scorcese won a couple. I don’t think this is even his best flick, but I definitely enjoyed it way more than any other movie this year.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 01:11 PM | Link to this

“I guess the prettiest swing I ever saw was Ted Williams and Bob Horner.”

Never saw either one of those guys play (except highlight reel stuff). So for me, the player with the best swing (hands down) of all time is Ken Griffey Jr. When he hits a home-run it just has that “Good Lord!”, jump out of your seat kind of feel to it…

By Voice of Reason

February 26, 2007 01:13 PM | Link to this

Prettiest swing I ever saw, bar none, was that of David Justice. No wasted effort, no wasted energy, just fluid and powerful. And then there was his teammate Ronnie Gant. If you sat down the left-field line in foul territory, you’d better be paying attention when Gant was at bat. Violent hacks. But when he connected…

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 01:14 PM | Link to this

DonC, at this point should he burst through Customs in the D.R., guns blazing, and tell them he has no visa but must get to training camp? Probably not wise.

They’re going to pretty much demand the ‘ol visa, whether he’s late for spring training or not.

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 01:16 PM | Link to this

By the way, Aybar’s out of options, so there isn’t much Braves can do but wait and hope he gets here soon.

If he gets here this week, I’d suggest this will all be forgotten soon.

By StingerSplash

February 26, 2007 01:21 PM | Link to this

From the Bo Jackson “If only he had stayed healthy” Hall of Fame — you want a violent, quick, hard swing? How ‘bout Eric Davis in his young, early days with the Big Red Machine. And nobody talks about his 28/80 season. Nobody. One of my friends is a Reds fan and worshiped E. Dude was a player.

By Eric

February 26, 2007 01:22 PM | Link to this

I think and I hope that Davies will prove all the haters that he is good. Last year he was hurt and he is only 23. As far Aybar I dont know what his problem is. I understand that Soriano got put at the end of the line because of the trade but Aybar should had his paperwork done as soon as he could. He knew he was playing for the Braves this season.

By braveheart

February 26, 2007 01:32 PM | Link to this

laroche had a real pretty swing. it was funny because he did strike out alot but whenever he would strike out, i would say wow that was a pretty swing. i would almost forget that he struck out because i was in awe of how pretty he swung. i’m serious about that. not trying to diss laroche at all. the man just had a pretty swing.

By MAC MARINE

February 26, 2007 01:32 PM | Link to this

DOB, Every year there is problems with visa with the island players, they know when spring training starts, why not start the process sooner so as to get here on time?

By ernesto

February 26, 2007 01:35 PM | Link to this

Agreed on Justice, he had a pretty swing. And our boy Adam had a pretty graceful rip as well. But a swing’s not really about looks is it? If it was Arnold Palmer would have been changing oil for a living, to quote the old little league smack talk “I’ve seen better cuts under a band-aid!”

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 01:35 PM | Link to this

“DonC, at this point should he burst through Customs in the D.R., guns blazing, and tell them he has no visa but must get to training camp? Probably not wise.”

LOL… Yeah you are probably right…

By Braves20

February 26, 2007 01:36 PM | Link to this

Ah spring and hope springs eternal. My hope is for anything above .250 for Thorman. Pretty swings? Hard to match that of Todd Helton who over the past ten years may be the best pure hitter in baseball.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 01:38 PM | Link to this

ManRam has a good swing for a righty I’ve always thought…

By Eric

February 26, 2007 01:54 PM | Link to this

LaRoche had an ugly swing. He stood up straight and never bent his knees. He had one of the laziest swings I have ever seen. Except for the last 3 months he was horrible. Good Riddens.

By rammerjammer

February 26, 2007 01:54 PM | Link to this

Anyone remember Dave Kingman? Tremendous swing.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 01:55 PM | Link to this

Hey, does anyone on here do fantasy baseball and live in the SoCal area??? I’ve got a league going right now, only 8 players so far, looking for more… $$$ to get in, e-mail me at Bretfavresucksgoats@yahoo.com if interested…

By 10-7-4

February 26, 2007 01:57 PM | Link to this

All good swings—but gosh, Mamie Van Doren—now there was a beautiful swing!!

By 10-7-4

February 26, 2007 01:59 PM | Link to this

rammerjammer— I remember him, and I believe he almost hit the ball once—once.

By MGL

February 26, 2007 02:05 PM | Link to this

Nice article on Thorman in the Macon paper:

http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/sports/baseball/mlb/atlanta_braves/16778775.htm

By dougp

February 26, 2007 02:05 PM | Link to this

Gotta cast a vote for my all time favorite hitter. Paul Molitor. Very quick bat, and had some power too. Two other names from the late 70s early 80s with similar styles were Rod Carew and Cecil Cooper. I grew up a Brewer fan and Cooper had a career year the same year that Brett almost hit .400. Cooper would have won any other year, 40 something hrs, 120+ rbi’s (maybe more I can’t remember) plus he hit like .330. Awesome hitter.

By PABravefan

February 26, 2007 02:05 PM | Link to this

DOB thanks for these updates!! This is the kind of report that I think we are all wanting to hear. How are these people doing! In regards to Soriano, I agree that it is good that he is all business, but I get a bad feeling that his demeanor might not fit with the team mentality. I have heard that Wick is the same way, but all reports last year were that he was approachable by teamates and in fact he was a good influence especially the young pithcers. It does not sound like that is the case. I understand that some people are not outgoing and maybe he just has a hard tim getting to know his new teammates. Has anyone spent time getting to know him on the team? You said that T.J. Bohn knew him from the Mariners system, can you talk to him and ask about his demeanor? Or better yet, can you approach the guy to get a story? I have a real good feeling about this team so far , except for the reports on Soriano! Keep up the outstanding reports DOB!! As a HUGE Brave fan from PA it is hard to get good news on the Braves. I can’ wait to get a free minute to check out the AJC site or Bill Shanks site, or MLB.com! THANKS!!!

By Diamondback.Mac

February 26, 2007 02:06 PM | Link to this

100+ wins this season. Remember, you heard it here first.

By Lew

February 26, 2007 02:10 PM | Link to this

DOB-Has anyone thought to tell Hudson to eat a peanut butter sandwhich or a He4rshey Bar in the 4th inning this year? It might just give him enough energy to make it tothe 6th. 35-I don’t know about Lakeview, but to answer your question from the other blog, I’ve been through Commerce, Georgia (and probably stopped once or twice). I went to Mercer and UGA, so I’ve been to almost everywhere in Georgia from below Macon on up into SC, where my wife is from.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 02:17 PM | Link to this

Jones was an ironman through his first nine years in the majors, playing an average of 155 games and winning the NL MVP award in 1999. But the past three seasons were marred by a litany of ailments, along with the overriding concern that something he’s had since birth will shorten or certainly cramp the rest of his career. “My feet were killing me at the end of last year,” Jones conceded. It was even worse the previous season. He had to spend six weeks wearing a protective boot after one wrong step left him in excruciating pain. “I literally thought I had a golf ball in my shoe,” Jones recalled. “That’s what it felt like. I couldn’t take another step.”

By Lew

February 26, 2007 02:23 PM | Link to this

StingerSplash-Eric Davis played with the Cincinnati Reds, but not with The Big Red Machine. The Big Red Machine was in the mid 70’s and had players like Rose, Morgan, Bench, Tony Perez, George Foster, Concepcion and the Elder Ken Griffey. Davis showed up about 15 years later.

By Greg in TN

February 26, 2007 02:26 PM | Link to this

Tomorrow, the results will be in from the HOF election by the Veterans Committee and will add the final piece to the HOF class of 2007. The Veterans Committee vote occurs every two years for players and every four years for the composite ballot (managers, umpires and executives).

The following comprise the players ballot this year: Dick Allen, Bobby Bonds, Ken Boyer, Rocky Colavito, Wes Ferrell, Curt Flood, Joe Gordon, Gil Hodges, Jim Kaat, Mickey Lolich, Sparky Lyle, Marty Marion, Roger Maris, Carl Mays, Minnie Minoso, Thurman Munson, Don Newcombe, Lefty O’Doul, Tony Oliva, Al Oliver, Vada Pinson, Ron Santo, Luis Tiant, Joe Torre, Cecil Travis, Mickey Vernon (played one season for the Braves in Milwaukee in 1959) and Maury Wills.

The following are on the composite ballot this year: Buzzie Bavasi, August Busch Jr, Harry Dalton, Charlie Finley, Doug Harvey, Whitey Herzog, Bowie Kuhn, Billy Martin, Marvin Miller, Walter O’Malley, Gabe Paul, Paul Richards, Bill White, Dick Williams and Phil Wrigley.

Personally, I’d like to see Munson and Al Oliver get in along with Augie Busch, Chuck Finley, Doug Harvey and Walter O’Malley. I’d say there are other deserving folks in the player’s list, but I don’t have time to go through the list and look at everyone’s career stats. Should be interesting to see if any of these will get the call to Cooperstown.

By J-dogg

February 26, 2007 02:29 PM | Link to this

Justice and Ken Griffy Jr. both have pretty swings. Seems like the leftys always have the smoothest swings.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 26, 2007 02:36 PM | Link to this

Pretty swing: Will Clark,

Hard Swing: Glenn Bragg—That cat used to break bats across his back on the backswing.

35, If there was another word for “Synonym” wouldn’t that,…like,… tear a whole in the universe or something? (i.e. using an “easy button” to find an “easy button.”)

By Lew

February 26, 2007 02:42 PM | Link to this

I know he’s considered borderline HOF by most, but Richie/Dick Allen hit a baseball harder than anyone I ever saw and I saw him do it in person many times. The guy was a force of nature at bat.

By Lew

February 26, 2007 02:48 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly-Philosophically speaking, Dude, you appear to be on firm ground with that analogy. Glad the strong winds missed your house this weekend.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 03:12 PM | Link to this

As far as the Oscar’s go, they lost ALL credibility for me when Saving Private Ryan lost the Best Picture award to Shakespeare in Love… Haven’t watched ‘em since…

By Tampaparrotthead

February 26, 2007 03:16 PM | Link to this

Hello to all and Happy Spring (it’s almost here!) to everyone! This is my favorite time of the year and I can’t wait to get down to Florida to take in some workouts and spring games… it’s not officially spring for me until that happens.

Did anybody or does anybody hack at it as hard as Ryan Klesko in his prime?!? His cuts would almost send a hard breeze thru the stadium. The funniest thing to me was how he would go to the other end of the dugout when he wiffed, but if he ever connected on one and drove it out of the yard he would always find a nice place to sit on the end of the bench where Rockin’ Leo and Bobby hangs out… and ‘splain to everybody within ear shot of how he hit that last one.

Sweetest swing… hands down Bob Horner. I guess there was a lot about him that some folks didn’t like (like his agent) but when he stepped into the batter’s box he took a back seat to nobody. IMO, he was absolutely fluid beauty in the batter’s square.

I also wanted to mention that I saw Canseco play a couple of games in Tampa in the late spring of ‘99 and DOB is right on the money… he was MASSIVE! One night I saw him break three bats on one at bat and didn’t hit the ball fair a time… on one swing he checked his swing and the bat ended up in two pieces. If you’ve ever been to Tropicana, you are right on top of the action and can almost spit on the foul lines from the first row. It’s like going to a gym and a baseball game breaks out. I was sitting directly behind home plate and back about three rows from the net and when a player first came to bat, if he used pine tar you could smell it… it’s that close. My favorite memory of Tropicana though is that I’ve been to five games there, and other than the first time when I went alone and I bought a ticket at Ticketmaster, I’ve never paid for a ticket. We’ve had people hand us tickets walking up to the stadium four times, and they wouldn’t take any money for them.

Thanks for the report DOB… excellent as always!

By Daybed Wagmoe

February 26, 2007 03:25 PM | Link to this

DOB - in those pictures from the gallery titled “Braves’ Monday Camp,” the captions say Blaine Boyer when it looks like it’s Peter Moylan

By ohforfour

February 26, 2007 03:31 PM | Link to this

Re: Visas..

Players can’t just walk in an office down there and get their paperwork done. They have to file for the visa and then wait to be notified of an appointment to finish the process.. which could be WEEKS after the original application. Why would we expect the govt bureaucracy in DR to be any better/different than our own wonderful folks in various fed/state/local offices?

Personally, I don’t think Aybar is a solution to any of the Braves needs anyway, so what’s the loss…

By ohforfour

February 26, 2007 03:39 PM | Link to this

And why Ron Santo doesn’t get more serious consideration for the HOF is beyond me….

By KC

February 26, 2007 04:04 PM | Link to this

“DOB-Has anyone thought to tell Hudson to eat a peanut butter sandwhich or a He4rshey Bar in the 4th inning this year?”

Damn… I’m getting hungry.

HEY, anyone know what radio station(s) will be carrying the Braves in Atlanta?

By Carroll

February 26, 2007 04:05 PM | Link to this

DOB: Spring break is next week, and I look forward to taking in the Yankees/Braves game. My only reservation is that I know the stadium will be packed with obnoxious NY fans. Have you noticed that any time we play the Yanks or Mets that their fans hoot and holler after every pitch as if it were the friggin WS? Oh well, even they can’t ruin spring training baseball for me! WHen is the best time to get autographs? Hope to see ya down there.

By chipdip

February 26, 2007 04:07 PM | Link to this

furcal…mazzone…giles….laroche…betemit…what a waste.

By Kieran from Long Island

February 26, 2007 04:15 PM | Link to this

“Personally, I don’t think Aybar is a solution to any of the Braves needs anyway, so what’s the loss…”

The loss is in the guy who gets cut in his place. Once again I dont know the intracacies of VISA filing in the DR, but somehow I think that Pete Orr or Scott Thorman, or one of the guys who have spent their who offseason preparing to make this team this spring would have their Papers all taken care of. Wouldn’t you think that a guy who was fighting for a roster spot would act a little more urgently then a guy who feels he already has one secure?

Of course this is a typical sort of “The week before Spring Training” conversation, and I’m sure we wouldnt be talking about it if there was something more relevant going on, but I’m curious if it’s a tell tale sign of things to come, I only say this because soemthing last year struck a chord with me. It was tough to put a finger on what it was, but there was something in the way he carried himself, I’m not sure, we shall see if any of this is relevant at all or if I’m just flat out wrong.

I guess my point is, if theres an odd man left out, is it really fair just to drop someone from the roster because he has options and the other guy doesn’t? In this case we may be looking at an interesting decision with a guy who guy to camp early who has options and i guy who gets to camp late who does not. We saw them drop the guy with options last year in Jurries, and keep Brian Jordan. Now they’re both working for the Post Office.

By Lew

February 26, 2007 04:16 PM | Link to this

Carroll-The best time to get autographs is the two weeks before they start the games. You got several days. After that, it gets increasingly difficult.

By KC

February 26, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

WOW…

Just glanced at a poll on ESPN.com that asked “will the Braves make the playoffs this year?”. 71% said “no”.

Wow. I can’t even begin to fathom that.

I think for many people the “2006 was the beginning of the end for the Braves” theory just seems to fit with their sense of universal balance. The expectation has always been that one of these days the streak would end, and the Braves would have to undergo a lengthy period of rebuilding. When the 2006 season happened, most people said “Well, that’s the end of Atlanta’s run. Time for them to rebuild.”

But the reality that so many don’t know enough to realize (or refuse to accept) is that this team was a closer away from a 90 win season. And that’s a fact. 29 blown saves is an awful lot. A guy like Wickman in the pen on opening day would allowed the Braves to finish with a respectable record, and Wild Card Berth. That’s 100% absolutely - without a doubt - certain.

There was no overhaul - and certainly no rebuilding period – needed here.

Those that predict Atlanta will miss the playoffs, aren’t paying attention. They just aren’t.

By MGL

February 26, 2007 04:29 PM | Link to this

Visa’s - Speaking from experience, as a general rule, it is the hiring company/organization that handles the work visa applications for employees. The delay may not be Aybar’s fault.

By RC

February 26, 2007 04:30 PM | Link to this

chipdip:

Renteria, McDowell, Johnson, Thorman, Gonzalez, Aybar…not saying I don’t wish we could have kept some of the other guys, but nobody is irreplacable.

By RC

February 26, 2007 04:35 PM | Link to this

One thing that might have been a factor in the visa’s of Soriano and Aybar is that both players were traded last year. Since it is the responsibility of the employer to file for a visa, I wonder if the trades caused problems for both players. It would seem that there would be less of a problem for Aybar since he has been with the Braves longer, but it might be that the Dodger drug their feet with paperwork or something…no way to really know without being on the inside…which is why I guess the people in the know are the ones who will make roster decisions.

By glorydays

February 26, 2007 04:36 PM | Link to this

Seems to me the Braves approach has always been spend on starting pitching that we can depend on for 7+ innings and then survive with a bullpen by committee. It doesn’t take a lot for this to be the Braves best bullpen. Isn’t it also saying, we can no longer afford the starting pitching. Is anyone aware of a championship based on a bullpen..maybe the nasty boys team, but I can’t think of any others. Question: the Betemit trade seems so one sided, was there something else going on with Betemit that was not obvious to the fans?

By 22oz

February 26, 2007 04:43 PM | Link to this

KC, i said it on the previous blog, but i heard John Kruk say this morning on XM radio that Peter Gammons says the Braves are the team to beat in the East, so the ENTIRE world isn’t against us, just 99.9%

By RC

February 26, 2007 04:46 PM | Link to this

The Angels World Series title in 2002 was based completely on their bullpen. During the World Series they didn’t have a starter go more than 5 innings in any game.

By Head Coach

February 26, 2007 04:50 PM | Link to this

KC , Thorman and Johnson will be first year starters. Left field is yet to be decided. two out of five starters are questionable. One or two bench spots are up for grabs. The bullpen is the only part of the team that looks stable and it has two spots up for grabs. It’s no wonder that most are looking at the Braves in an unfavorable light. I think the Braves are being sold short on all the talent they have. But , until they prove different….thats the way the cookie crumbles.

By michael

February 26, 2007 04:52 PM | Link to this

The first halting conversations have begun in our office about the Braves chances this year. Consensus: They will be better than last year, but uncertainty about the offense and leadoff position are still worrisome. We’ll see DOB. From your reports, sounds like the bullpen will be scary. And speaking of scary, here’s a couple of hitters I saw as a child who were scary. Willie Stargell and Al Ferrara. Don Sutton once said of Stargell, “I never saw anything like it. He doesn’t just hit pitchers, he takes away their dignity.” Ferrara played for a few years with the Dodgers and finally the Padres. His nickname was “The Bull” and the baseball pat looked like a hollow bone in his hands.

A couple of blogs ago, you tossed in some lyrics from Tom Waits. I have a test for people. If they haven’t heard of Tom Waits, I just dont expect much out of them. Anyway, I’m a big fan of the earlier stuff. Nighthawks at the Diner, Heart Attack and Vine, Blue Valentines. Check those albums out if you haven’t already.

See you at the yard DOB.

By King Nick Saban

February 26, 2007 04:56 PM | Link to this

i have a huge man-crush on DOB…

keep it real, dude

By glorydays

February 26, 2007 04:58 PM | Link to this

Agreed. Wille Stargell has the scariest swing I’ve ever seen

By Renegator

February 26, 2007 05:01 PM | Link to this

KC - the Braves games with be on 94.9 The Bull - Atlanta’s new country station. For AM - it’s most likely stil on 750.

By gotigers72

February 26, 2007 05:02 PM | Link to this

DOB - You are a fantastic writer. Just your description of Gonzalez’ arm should be required reading for creative writing students. Thanks for the descriptions of the other guys too. Very succinct and understandable.

Are you an Edwin McCain fan? I live about 10 miles from his hometown of Greenville, SC. He plays a lot around here and I’ve seen him 5 or 6 times. He is great to see in person. Very humorous and tells great stories about how he got ideas for some of the songs he has written, and has this big, powerful voice. I love the song “Lost in America” off of his new album of the same name. If you ever get a chance to see him in person, it’s definitely worth the time and money.

By KC

February 26, 2007 05:12 PM | Link to this

HEAD COACH: “The bullpen is the only part of the team that looks stable and it has two spots up for grabs.”

What??? The fact that two slots are up for grabs is a sign of strength, not weakness there. The only reason 2 spots are up for grabs is that we have 4 or 5 really good looking options for those two spots. Under different circumstances, there would be absolutely no question that Paronto would be back, and that a spot would be saved for Boyer. No offense, but was kind of silly to even bring that up.

“One or two bench spots are up for grabs.”

Are you serious? You’re really listing the fact that 1 or 2 bullpen/bench jobs are up for grabs as legit reasons for people to question the Braves???

As for Thorman and Johnson… fine. I know that’s one thing that many people point to. But the reality is that we’re still going to get decent offense out of 1st base, be it from Thorman or a Thorman/Wilson platoon… and Giles’ 06 performance wasn’t exactly a hard act to follow and won’t put any undue pressure on Johnson.

And the rotation… the Braves rotation is in better shape than most. Certainly a hell of a lot better off than the Met’s rotation, though most have picked them to finish ahead of Atlanta.

I think the fact that Gammons picks Atlanta this year is very heartening, because he’s one of the few that actually pays close attention before making a judgment.

By KC

February 26, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

Renegator, thanks.

AM wasn’t on 750 last year though… it was on WGST. But no matter. I’ll be listneing on 94.9. FM signal comes in better where I am. Thanks again!

By RC

February 26, 2007 05:20 PM | Link to this

I agree that the spots up for grabs on the team are signs of strength, because they are up for grabs among people that had spots last year. Therefore we’ll have to fill 2 spots with choice from 4 guys from last year, because the players we added are better than those 4 guys.

By Lew

February 26, 2007 05:26 PM | Link to this

As far as the quewstions in left field-We have the same two players from last year and they performed well. You may not like the fact that BC platoons Diaz/Langerhans, but they produced offensively and defensively.

By woogidy

February 26, 2007 05:32 PM | Link to this

Gammons only picked the Braves because they used to play in Boston.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 05:35 PM | Link to this

“The Angels World Series title in 2002 was based completely on their bullpen. During the World Series they didn’t have a starter go more than 5 innings in any game.”

Great point… Plus, we don’t have to go through the American league. The national league is chalk-full of slightly below average teams(marlins, rockies, brewers, reds, d-backs, cubs, Giants) and slightly above average teams (Dodgers, Padres, Phillies, Cardinals, Astros). So as long as we get into the playoffs I like our chances. And then, as St. Louis proved last season, anything can happen in the World Series.

By journalist jimmy smith

February 26, 2007 05:39 PM | Link to this

thorman has a big swing? what if he fouls one off his toe? oh,the humanity!

By Lew

February 26, 2007 05:42 PM | Link to this

Here’s some left field figures from last year. Diaz/Langerhans combined for a .282 BA with 14 HR and 60RBI, 31 2B and 61 BB. They also combined for only 5 errors (Diaz had 4). Now these are not all star numbers, but they are solid. Most consider that Diaz will not hit for quite as high and average, but most think Langerhans will hit for a higher one. There isn’t much of a question mark there as far as I can tell.

By The Grinch

February 26, 2007 05:52 PM | Link to this

Woogidy, that was funny. I second the opinion that Cate Blanchett is smokin’ hot…and I’m not really sure why. She’s not really tradionally beautiful, but she has this pale, ethereal quality that gets the ol’ oil pump flowing. DonC, I brought up the same thing about the Oscars losing credibility with the Shakespeare in Love over Private Ryan thing amognst the mostly female group I was with at Spamalot last night. They thought I was joking at first, and then they got p.o’d when they found out I was serious. Same thing with Titanic. Funny how just about the only women I’ve met who can tell a good movie from sappy, overproduced, “Feel good hit of the summer” schlock are tomboys and lesbians. Oh, well.

By Dr. Tchock

February 26, 2007 05:56 PM | Link to this

He would have a bigger toe to go with his swing.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 06:05 PM | Link to this

I don’t know how so many people are overlooking the Braves this year. It’s just the east-coast bias thing I think. Most major national sports media outlets are based somewhere on the east coast, so naturally they tend to over-value players in their particular city or region (just like many of us do with the Braves, and how I do with the Angels since I live in So Cal). Most of the media is just putting such a high value on the Mets offense and bullpen, along with the Phillies rotational depth and Ryan Howard, that the Braves kind of got lost in the shuffle…

By journalist jimmy smith

February 26, 2007 06:26 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! look at that photo of chipper on the braves ajc.com page. several things appear to be wrong here. no wonder his feet hurt!

By journalist jimmy smith

February 26, 2007 06:33 PM | Link to this

some of these posts from “journalist jimmy smith” are not from journalist jimmy smith. stinky is apparently still unable to come up with a suitable identity of stinky’s own - or one somebody will blog with anyway. journalist will let stinky be jimmy smith for awhile since he derives such satisfaction from it. journalist out to dinner.

By dadgum

February 26, 2007 06:36 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB….Once the usual bars are starting to bore ‘ya make your way over to Cricketeer Arms in the Mercado on International. Great English pub with damn good beer and live gigs. Been there every year for the last 5 or so. Love it. Warning that it can get loud and crowded. My two cents….

Now that we are starting a new season I will blog more. Not that I was missed or anything. Going to see Skynyrd again, still love Rosanne Cash, my son wants me to go to an OAR concert. Ah.. another year. Not sure about OAR. Just saw Billy Joel at John Paul Jones Arena in C’Vile. Great. Great name for a venue. Wonder why. ROCK ON! Go Braves!!!!

By woogidy

February 26, 2007 06:36 PM | Link to this

I have a question, what do we think of the Phillies? I think they’ll be good, but they gotta play 81 games in that little league park, and I don’t think they can out-hit the Mets or the Braves, so playing them a combined total of 38 games will be their downfall. Just my opinion. In explanation, I think most divisional games are won in the middle to late innings, and the Phillies just don’t have the ‘pen to compete with the Mets and Braves. Can’t wait ‘til that Mike Gonzalez vs Ryan Howard matchup with the game on the line!

By AdirondackDave

February 26, 2007 06:42 PM | Link to this

DOB — Do Johnson, Thorman, or Davies officially still have “rookie” eligibility for the post-season award?

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 06:45 PM | Link to this

That photo of Hoss is not one for the kids to have signed….

Willie Stargell’s swing. Very good call. It was huge and majestic. A lot of the ones you guys cited are huge and powerful, but not violent swings like a Sheffield, Branyan or Thorman….

Bo Jackson _ now that’s one I’d forgotten, and it has to rank near the top. The stories John Boles used to tell us Marlins writers about Bo, back when Boles was KC Royals farm director and Bo was with them … just unbelievable feats. For instance, throwing off-balance from the left-field warning track on the fly to home plate, without squaring up and even pointing his foot toward the plate….

Grinch, imagine how astounding Cate Blanchett must look in person … that’s gotta be memorable.

Did I ever tell you folks about the time a few years ago when I was in first class (believe me, didn’t pay for it, just upgraded by Delta for flying so much coach), when I heard an annoying voice on the phone behind me, turned and saw Christina Aguilera. She’s both smaller and bigger in person, if you know what I mean. And not very impressive. No Cate Blanchett, for damn sure….

Michael, I like your test.

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 06:47 PM | Link to this

Thorman does. He’s the only rookie of that trio

By Darth Stinky

February 26, 2007 07:03 PM | Link to this

I’ll be civil. I have not impersonated jjs and have no desire too. Apparently, some people can insinuate dishonorable things without impunity on this blog because they have ‘pull’ with a certain someone.

I can think of one person who needs to stop flattering himself and get a life.

By The Grinch

February 26, 2007 07:06 PM | Link to this

DOB, I often imagine what she looks like in person; it usually causes me to need a tissue. (Pause). Oh, my god; I knew there’d be some sick folks on here! I meant because the image brings a tear to my eye…:-)

By Bob, journalist

February 26, 2007 07:07 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, not to worry … folks what utilize their own created straight men must themselves be crooked … and they’re easily detected too … why, even Googans can recognize their handiwork … when they’re not preoccupied!

Have a good supper …

I see where Torre’s Hall credentials are being reexamined … and about time too! I never thought his play warranted consideration … and though his managerial skills are well above average, there are others just as good … No, old Joe deserves recognition and a special place of honor in the Hall along side Lou and Cal … that, or be in the Guinness Book of Records for his length of tenure under George!

By bill

February 26, 2007 07:08 PM | Link to this

what happened to james jurries at 1st base ..he lit up spring training last season for the braves ?????IS Thorman better ?

By 10-7-4

February 26, 2007 07:15 PM | Link to this

Lew—I lived in Commerce, for about 6 months during 1983. It’s truly a Dawg town. I told Drunky Clint that you said, you’ve never been to Lakeview Ga. and he replied, “me neither, must of been two other guys”. Arkansas Hillbilly—you’re probably right with your conclusion on the ‘synonym’ issue. While you’re at it-Clint wants to know-“if you try to fail, and succeed, which have you done?” These kind of things would keep him up at night, but the Seagrams 7, prevents that.

By MEB

February 26, 2007 07:17 PM | Link to this

DOB… papers here are reporting Matt Harrison will pitch the Grapefruit League opener.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 07:23 PM | Link to this

The Phillies (on paper) should have a pretty solid team next year. I think the keys for them in 2007 are “Flash” Gordon, Pat Burrell, and Cole Hamels. They have to have Flash stay healthy the whole year and continue to be effective as a closer. Burrell needs to put up a nice .280-35-110 if they hope to get enough out of that offense to keep up with Atlanta and the Mets. And Cole Hamels has to become the Ace he’s projected to become. If Hamels can do that, the Phillies will have the best 1-2 punch in the division (1-2 being Hamels and Myers). And throw in a healthy Garcia, and you may well have the best top 3 in the National League, not only the division…

But, with all that said, this is still the Phillies we are talking about. Philadelphia sports are cursed, everyone knows that…

By AdirondackDave

February 26, 2007 07:31 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Dave, Wilson could be very important to the Braves this year. Probably the most important guy flying below the radar. Thorman and Wilson could very well approach or equal LaRoche’s numbers… but not his defense admittedly. Remember, we got a ton of Ks from Adam too. And Wilson’s pinchhitting work should be valuable. I hated to see Ward go but Craig also fills that void beautifully. All in all, I’m glad JS made the deal for Gonzalez, it set up positive change in several areas. This should be a good, well-balanced club with a killer bullpen.

To change the subject for a moment and although this is clearly pre-mature, the good-looking young middle infielders coming up along with Gonzalez and Soriono’s presence, could enable the Braves to trade Rentoria and and not re-sign free agent Wickman at the end of this year… saving enough dough to re-sign Andruw. Given these strengths, and in spite the fact that I like Wickman and Edgar a lot, I would certainly consider it.

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 07:32 PM | Link to this

That would be sweet to see Thorman put up a .270-25-80 season and win that Rookie of the Year award (then he could dedicate half of it to Chipper who was freakin’ robbed of his…)

By Bob, journalist

February 26, 2007 07:35 PM | Link to this

35 about “if you try to fail, and succeed, which have you done?” … better warn Clint to be careful who he asks … as I’ve previously noted, folks with the answer to that question are generally quite defensive about it and can become offensive when you ask!

By DonCoburleone

February 26, 2007 07:37 PM | Link to this

“Smoltz is 0-3 with a 7.71 ERA in his previous three Opening Day starts.”

Well that’s a bit of information I didn’t need to hear…

By Summerteeth

February 26, 2007 07:41 PM | Link to this

DOB, are you and Mark Bowman bunking up down in Florida? His notes over at MLB.com mirror your earlier post…sans the music stuff of course. Very interesting.

By Darth Stinky

February 26, 2007 07:47 PM | Link to this

The Man in Black might seem more credible had he not relapsed into addiction for most of his married life to June Carter.

By choppinmama

February 26, 2007 07:50 PM | Link to this

MGL - thanks for the link about Thorman. Info like that really puts a lot of the players off-the-field lives into perspective. Makes you appreciate what a lot of them have gone through to reach the bigs. Not all have had their roads paved with gold like Frenchy.

And……props to all moms out there…..providing transport back and forth to practice and out of town tournaments. Moms rule!!

By 10-7-4

February 26, 2007 07:52 PM | Link to this

Bob,journalist—ole Clint says he will face whatever comes, because he must know, the answer to life’s puzzle. He’s confused about, “if man evolved from monkeys and apes, why do we still have monkeys and apes?” Also, “if a parsley farmer is sued, can they garnish his wages?” So much still to know-so little time to resolve. addio

By journalist jimmy smith

February 26, 2007 07:53 PM | Link to this

well, bloggers … looks like stinky wants to be jimmy smith tonight and take a few shots at dob, too. have at it, stinky. journalist is out for awhile.

By Bob, journalist

February 26, 2007 07:56 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, that was fast! What did you have to eat?!

To answer unasked questions, I’m having cold pizza … reheated with extra cheeze!!

To answer unanswered questions … I don’t know … thought you knew! Remember, I asked you first!

To address recent observations, you’ll recall the 707 I recently flew in on … rough flight that!

By ElbravoX

February 26, 2007 07:57 PM | Link to this

Dude, I mean Mr. DOB, why the Hoss anointment to Larry? Do we now call him Hoss, the player formerly known as Chipper?

By The Grinch

February 26, 2007 08:09 PM | Link to this

Such nastiness on clear and pretty Monday night. Well, reading a good book is a more valuable pastime anyway. Later, all.

By Bob, journalist

February 26, 2007 08:15 PM | Link to this

35 I’ve never known any unsuccessful farmers who’ve had any problems with their wages being garnished … all the ones I’ve known have always been outstanding in their field.

My only problem with evolution is that that I can’t figure from out what the ameoba evelouted … maybe they were created.

By ColoradoBraves Fan

February 26, 2007 08:21 PM | Link to this

why do you drive on a parkway and park on a drive way? Why do we sit in the stands?

By KJalltheway

February 26, 2007 08:23 PM | Link to this

DOB What’s up with Kelly Johnson?

I am so amped about this year. It’s finally time! I have a lot of confindence in Kelly Johnson surpassing the expectations that people will have of him. I thought he made a lot of smart and talented plays in the outfield last year. I’m sure he will be able to bring that defensive dynamic to second. Also with 70 hits and 40 walks in only 87 AB’s, he will make a suitable leadoff hitter.

Also every game I saw Scott Thorman play last year, I noticed he would always run it out to first even on a groundout. That earns points in my book. Go Braves!

By OddJob

February 26, 2007 08:25 PM | Link to this

JimmyBOY!! My oddjob is market trading from the comfort of my home.

By Lew

February 26, 2007 08:29 PM | Link to this

Journalist Jimmy-Several bloggers seem to think that Oddjob is another Stinky AKA. There are some differences in style, though. Just enough to hold a bit of doubt. However……

By mirror on the wall

February 26, 2007 08:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, just picked up Millie Jackson’s “B***”. What a great talent and horribly underappreciated Georgia product.

By OddJob

February 26, 2007 08:36 PM | Link to this

David Brien You do this crap every day? I wouldn’t wanta be ya!

By Lew

February 26, 2007 08:41 PM | Link to this

I knew it. There is no longer any doubt. Identity number 57.

By Darth Stinky

February 26, 2007 08:48 PM | Link to this

Farmers ‘outstanding in their field’ reminds me of ‘people are dying to get into that cemetary’. Grinch, I apologize for someone trolling for trouble. I’ve been a gentleman of late. Somebody just has to have a little sympathy from the devil who went down to the Googans.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 26, 2007 08:50 PM | Link to this

Okay guys…. cool your jets… It’s about baseball. Remember? No need to get personal…

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this

MEB, papers wherever you are are wrong. Harrison’s pitching vs. Georgia Tech on Wednesday. That’s not the Grapefruit League opener. Davies pitching that one.

By No Chop Zone

February 26, 2007 09:05 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else believe No Chop Zone is really Stinky too?

By MEB

February 26, 2007 09:24 PM | Link to this

DOB… sorry my mistake, Harrison is indeed pitching the opening game against Georgia Tech. Nice article about him and how excited he is to pitch the first game of his first big-league camp. He has some pretty impressive numbers at Class A Myrtle Beach and Double A Mississippi. A 6-foot-5 left-hander who has excellent control… not a bad combination!

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 09:38 PM | Link to this

We’ll see about Diaz. Nobody wins a job before they even start the Grapefruit League schedule. These workouts and first impressions will soon be overshadowed by actual performances in games. But yes, he is looking good so far. But again, we haven’t even had a game yet.

No one’s saying much about Aybar because he’s not here and all the Braves will say is they don’t have an update on when he’s coming. They haven’t criticized him publicly, haven’t said he’s been out long enough where it could affect his status, etc. I mean, as I said earlier, he’s out of options. He’s going to be on the team, barring something unexpected. And after trading Betemit to get him, you can be assured Braves aren’t going to dump him.

It’s a week of workouts. Not a major thing in the big picture. Hell, Giles missed three weeks last spring because of family issues, remember.

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 09:40 PM | Link to this

Why are you guys all obsessed with who each other is. My god, is it that interesting, really? Oh, well. Not going to divert attention from KU-OU and “24” for this boring crap. Later.

By Robert

February 26, 2007 09:48 PM | Link to this

Thanks for then update

I know it’s not your picture and not with this article, but that is just a “gorgeous” spread eagle crotch shot of Chipper on the front of the Braves page

Give Bobby a pat on the ears and a sugar cube for me

By Troy

February 26, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB: Do you know if any Braves Spring Training games will be televised if so do you know which ones?

By woogidy

February 26, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

This BraveS blog sure is interesting tonight… “24” is going a thousand directions, and I cannot turn it off. Looking at the schedule, I couldn’t help but realize, The Braves could skip Hampton’s first two starts, and everyone would still be on regular rest. If they had to. DOB, You think that’s a possibility?

By Troy

February 26, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Nevermind DOB I just found it thanks though

By The Grinch

February 26, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

From what I saw until halftime, the KU Oklahoma game isn’t much of a game. What’s it like to be able to root for a good team? :-) G’night, all.

By woogidy

February 26, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Nice article about the Braves on ESPN by Jayson Stark. and by the way, don’t know what I was thinking, One guy would have to go on short rest to skip Hampton twice, but they could skip him once.

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

Grinch, that game got good real fast, thanks to KU playing like garbage most of second half. OU’s really not bad, either. Anyway, it was tied with a few minutes left. Much consternation before they pulled it out.

Troy, the game Friday vs. the Pittsburgh LaRoches is to be televised on ESPN, with Smoltz pitching and Gonzalez also scheduled to make his Braves debut _ against his former team.

By David O'Brien

February 26, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Hey Robert, why don’t you stop by and give him a pat on the ears and a sugar cube yourself? I’d pay to see that. Or rather, I’d pay to see what ensued.

By TennesseePaul

February 26, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Lew: I got it in the mail today. Absolutely incredible. Thank you. Thank you very much. I’m taking it to get framed this weekend. I’ve got a spot on the wall all ready for it. Just down right incredible man. Thank you.

DOB: I like all the articles released today. Good stuff on Blanco. After reading that I can see why the brass is keepin’ an eye on him. And I can also see why they would like to see him get some more experience producing at that level.

Game on ESPN friday at 10am (for me). Can’t wait to see it.

GO BRAVES

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

Okay, I am going to give someone the opportunity to make a bunch of money. Of course you are going to have to do all the work… I am just going to give you the idea.

With all the concern about toe health, I am surprised someone has not come up with a light weight carbon fiber/kevlar or nomex honey comb toe cap that could be use in a batting shoe. All the foul tips we see bouncing off Chipper’s bunions have got to cause some concern.

Sorry, I am not the guy to follow through on this but I know it can be done with light weight materials and custom formed to fit so as to not interfer with running.

I don’t need another project, I already know the difference in happiness and success. I am plenty happy. Retired young enough to enjoy it.

So next time you see one of those wicked foul tips off the instep and watch a guy hobble around for 15 minutes, think about how rich you could have become.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 01:04 AM | Link to this

TenPaul and Scribe-You’re both welcome. NoCopZone-No we don’t think you’re anyone other than a deluded Mets’ Fan, but that’s ok. We seem to get them here all the time.

By Head Coach

February 27, 2007 01:10 AM | Link to this

KC, you don’t have OCD do you ? Every single thing I said is true and yet you just just want to argue. Go find a stop sign and argue with it.

By Wayne in UT

February 27, 2007 02:09 AM | Link to this

DOB Dave, been working a lot lately, so very little chance to chime in, but I do appreciate the piece on Gregor Blanco. Sounds like the young man has been through more than one should at his age.

Thanks again for all your work, although I would trade with you for a few days, and let you travel the intermountain west and run my territory for me……

:-)

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 03:36 AM | Link to this

David, I don’t think many are obsessed with knowing who it is behind the mask … that’s part of the inherent romance of screen identities. If someone wants to have one, two, three hundred of them … it might be a bit confusing … but I doubt many of us would mind.

No, the obsession is not with knowing who others are … and it’s only a very few who are actually obsessed. The obsession is with the taking of a fellow bloggers identity … a truly despicable act of the first order!

From my perspective, it is a vengeful act designed to disrupt the Blog … damage the integrity and reputation of the blogger and/or the blogger’s persona whose identity is being usurped … in many cases resulting in unnecessary stress. It is vile behavior, far worse than the unthinking obscenities of some … for it is ruthless and premeditated … designed to cause harm!

Left unchecked, it will surely destroy the Blog … it must stop or be stopped immediately!

It is my nature to embrace people and condemn unacceptable behavior … but those who engage in this disruptive activity and refuse to modify their behavior are beneath contempt and are to be despised!

While protestations of innocence, rationalizations justifying the behavior, and criticism of the ones being “abused” are usually transparent and an indication of guilt … only the AJC is in a position to make an accurate determination and effect proper punishment or otherwise take action so as to effectively address the problem.

The evidence seems to support that the AJC has, at least in recent days, been a proactive monitoring and exercising control over the obscenities and character defaming that were prevalent on the Blog and are certainly to be commended! We waited, some of us impatiently, while the AJC positioned itself to better address those issues and we cannot allow this menace to render those efforts meaningless.

We have a team to support, a season to enjoy, and hopefully a World Series to win! It unthinkable that the AJC and anyone associated or having influence with either that organization or the Atlanta Braves would not do all within their individual and collective powers to see that our ability to so do is not impaired by the dastardly acts of a few degenerates!

You think I’m mad and disgusted … you’re damned right I am!

By Head Coach

February 27, 2007 03:50 AM | Link to this

Get’em BOB ! I could not agree more. The AJC and DOB have a direct responsibility to keep this blog coherent and bloggers honest in their perceived identity(singular that is).

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 04:02 AM | Link to this

Thanks Coach!

I knew I count on you!

The software has long been in place to allow reserved logins … it’s the rule rather than the exception!

How are things in the Dakotas these days?

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 04:18 AM | Link to this

Coach, I apologize for the sloppy response … these days my brain and fingers aren’t speaking to each other.

Of course I meant that I knew I could count on you!

One further point of clarification relative to my response to you … the software is available to allow multiple reserved logins (and passwords, when appropriate or desired) … it too is the rule in software design, at least those with which I am familiar, rather than the exception.

Rest well

By John Adcox

February 27, 2007 07:11 AM | Link to this

Hey, DOB,

Thanks for the Blanco overview. I’ve been really curious about him — I’ve always liked the fast slap hitters just for the excitement — and you told me exactly the stuff I’ve been wanting to know. I hope we get to see him some this Spring on the few TV games. Thanks again, Great stuff.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

February 27, 2007 07:17 AM | Link to this

I don’t know what it is. But, there is something about Gregor Blanco that I like. I think this guy could make a huge impact on this team. I hope he makes a good impression on Cox.

By BOBO

February 27, 2007 07:20 AM | Link to this

Speaking of awesome swings, how can anyone forget Sandersville’s own Stretch McCovey.

By BOBO

February 27, 2007 07:23 AM | Link to this

Speaking of awesome swings, has everyone forgotten about Sandersville’s own Stretch Mc covey?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 07:39 AM | Link to this

Don… I would say Smoltz is due..

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 07:53 AM | Link to this

DOB.. Going back and reading your review of the players. It will be interesting to see if the leg work put in by Diaz translates to increased speed in the outfield and on the base paths too.

I am also interested in how Thorman’s swing translates to increased production. If it produces an increase in bat speed without causing him to be thrown off balance fine. I worry sometimes when guys get a little too over aggressive.

I have seen it on the golf course and know the results. It aint’t pretty….

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 07:58 AM | Link to this

And one more thing, I would suspect it would make him vulnerable to a change-up

By KC

February 27, 2007 08:56 AM | Link to this

HEAD COACH: “Every single thing I said is true and yet you just just want to argue. Go find a stop sign and argue with it.”

HD, my apologies. You’re absolutely right of course.

The fact that the Braves have 5 or 6 strong candidates for their 6th and 7th slots in the bullpen is a sign of weakness. As is the fact that there’s a bench job or two open. No team with any hope of winning goes into spring training with a bench job still open. Everyone knows that. I’ve embarrassed myself by suggesting otherwise.

I’m sorry for disagreeing with you. It’ll never happen again.

By KC

February 27, 2007 09:04 AM | Link to this

Meant to say: “HC” (as in Head Coach). Sorry Coach.

By KC

February 27, 2007 09:06 AM | Link to this

Individual game tickets on sale Thursday at 9am!!!

Fill up that Mets series!!!!

By Lew

February 27, 2007 09:26 AM | Link to this

Stinky-The fact remains, no matter you protestations-You’re a Whiny Littlre Jerk. It hasn’t changed in the time I’ve been on the blog and I doubt it ever will change. It’s so typical. You give everyone you don’t like a bunch of grief and when you’re called on the carpet you pull the “Oh, the Humanity, I’m so misunderstood/so picked on/so misrepresented. No you’re not. You’re just a Whiy Little Jerk that has to run and rat people out like the little dweeb everybody knew back in elementary school. I really don’t care who you are, but don’t pull the routine that you’re totally misunderstood and wronged. You’re a Whiny Little Jerk-bottom line.

By VaBravesfan

February 27, 2007 09:30 AM | Link to this

Jessica Simpson has a nice swing.

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 09:35 AM | Link to this

Lew-The fact remains, no matter you protestations-You’re a Whiny Littlre Jerk. It hasn’t changed in the time I’ve been on the blog and I doubt it ever will change. It’s so typical. You give everyone you don’t like a bunch of grief and when you’re called on the carpet you pull the “Oh, the Humanity, I’m so misunderstood/so picked on/so misrepresented. No you’re not. You’re just a Whiy Little Jerk that has to run and rat people out like the little dweeb everybody knew back in elementary school. I really don’t care who you are, but don’t pull the routine that you’re totally misunderstood and wronged. You’re a Whiny Little Jerk-bottom line.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 09:37 AM | Link to this

VaBravesFan-Jessica Simpson has more than a nice swing.

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 27, 2007 09:41 AM | Link to this

Early April series should be good for 2 out of 3 for the Mets.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 09:43 AM | Link to this

Stinky-You are, thank whatever diety you care to, one of a kind. What a Jerk. You want to go a couple of rounds with me, Jerk, bring it on. I won’t run and hide like the rest of your victims.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 09:49 AM | Link to this

NoChopZone-Two of three losses, if you’re lucky. The Braves could sweep. Let’s see, are you pitching Glavine, El Duque and Park, or Glavine Park and Sosa? Either way, your pitching is terrible. Don’t you wish Glavine could go every other day. Kind of like “Glavine and Maine and pray for a hurricane”

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 09:50 AM | Link to this

Lew, I would go a couple of rounds with you, but the censor/DOB doesn’t like it when one of his own gets his ears boxed.

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 09:53 AM | Link to this

Lew-You are, thank whatever diety you care to, one of a kind. What a Jerk. You want to go a couple of rounds with me, Jerk, bring it on. I won’t run and hide like the rest of your victims.

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 09:55 AM | Link to this

You shouldn’t make it so obvious when you slime in as Journalist Jimmy Smith and bring up the same obsessions you have as “Stinky.”

And don’t bother asking for any more apologies. We’ve got the IP address match this time.

Peace,

David O’Brien

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 09:55 AM | Link to this

It unthinkable that the AJC and anyone associated or having influence with either that organization or the Atlanta Braves would not do all within their individual and collective powers to see that our ability to so do is not impaired by the dastardly acts of a few degenerates!

You think I’m mad and disgusted … you’re damned right I am!

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 09:58 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah, I hope you’re listening to James McMurtry on those routes, because his music is absolutely made for that kind of long-haul driving, my man. You gotta try it. Get the live album, Live in Aught-Three….

Bob, agreed. Shoot me an e-mail and I’ll tell you who you can complain to, because it’s out of my hands. All I can do is have the unprovoked attacks on others, the ridiculous sexual stuff and all that, deleted. Of course, using others’ screen names is a bannable offense, but you should know it’s not always that one really, really bad human using others’ screen names. I’ll be fair about that _ it’s a couple others who drop by with absolutely nothing to say about anything I want on this blog, they also have appropriated Jimmy’s screen name. And we can get them banned for doing so, but I’ve got a lot more important things to do during spring training, when i’m out here 10-12 hours a day at the park working.

Granted, he’s the worst and brings the blog down far and away more than anyone else, and absolutely never has anything to contribute to this blog that I (or most others, I’d imagine) want to read. But he actually hasn’t been using Jimmy’s screen name much if at all lately. He’s been his usual completely self-obsessed, whoa-is-me, insufferable boorish self, but that’s one thing he hasn’t been doing lately.

Anyway, just wanted you to know I agree with you the blog would be a lot better place if he’d go away, go to someone’s blog where he’s wanted _ dude, do you get it, I don’t want you on MY blog? _ but hey, he likes being persecuted. It’s only time in his life, probably, where he gets this much attention. It’s a catch-22. We can’t live with him, and can’t get rid of him. All we can do is loathe him.

So let’s eat pie and raise a toast to the human who can make us all feel a little better about ourselves _ because we’re all really good people by comparison, right? We like pets, like Johnny Cash … you know, we’re normal.

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 09:59 AM | Link to this

Proof positive that DOB has a special blogger friend.

By Matthew

February 27, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Wow…an interesting morning to say the least.

Braves on TV THIS WEEK! Anyone else excited?

David, I’m getting conflicting reports. Is Gonzalez scheduled to work against the Pirates Friday on ESPN? I’d love to see what he can do for us instead of against us. I also look forward to seeing what Laroche looks like in a Pirate uniform. I really do wish him the best, as I do for most all former Braves.

Have a good day all-I’ll be showing a video to my classes today and won’t be able to blog until this afternoon at the earliest.

By Thrillhouse44

February 27, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Steve Phillips was on Mike & Mike this morning and he predicted the East would look like this: 1. Phillies 2. Braves 3. Mets. He said the Mets had the 3rd or 4th best rotation in the division.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Stinky-Unlike yourself, I post only under my own name. The name I was given at birth. I don’t care that you know who I am. I, unlike yourself, have no identity crisis. Believe me, David will not stick up for me here. If you get deleted, Whiny Little Jerk, it’s your own damn fault for being a Whiny Little Jerk. You make personal attacks on people you decide you don’t like and then you Whine horrendously when someone tells you you’re in the wrong. You write letters to higher ups about how wronged you’ve been. Well, You Whiny Little Jerk, I don’t have a boss. I don’t get paid by a corporate entity to do my job(unless they’re art lovers and commission me to do artwork). My job is not contingent on placating the likes of you. I do consider JJS, Bob, Carolina Lady, Grinch, Tennessee Paul, SSIScribe, KC and others my friends. Yes, we communicate with each other off of the blog. Metropolitan Man, also. But they don’t tell me what to do any more than the powers that be at AJC tell me what to do. I’ve had posts to you deleted as well, so don’t give me this poor, put upon little boy routine. We all know you’re a Whiny Little Jerk. Why don’t you just go away, hide in your closet and break down in solitude, instead of making us all witness to it? I promise you that help is available.

By Head Coach

February 27, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

KC , your hilarious. I almost fell out of my chair laughing. Nothing better than a good sense of humor to diffuse an argument my friend. I’m just not comfortable making predictions with this 2007 squad , yet. Going over this seasons schedule and comparing it to last season , I was surprised to find that the strength of schedule is almost identical. It’s almost a certainty to say the Braves should improve on last years 79-83 record. The Braves are a wild card contender. The Phillies and Mets both have a powerful offensive attack and on paper the Phillies look like the team to beat. April and May the Braves have 33 divisional games of which 18 are head to head with the Phillies and Mets. Come June 1st we will know if this team can compete or if we are all just hoping they can. Predictions are just that. Remember , Peter Gammons picked the Braves to win the division last season to.

By Darth Stinky

February 27, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Lew, It aint me, Babe. To quote DOB: “it’s a couple others who drop by with absolutely nothing to say about anything I want on this blog, they also have appropriated Jimmy’s screen name.”

I forgive you of your unprovoked attacks.

As for my “unprovoked attacks on others”, there’s no such thing.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 27, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

DOB

Did I miss it, or did we totally overlook this piece of info yesterday?:

February 26, 1932, John R. Cash was born in Kingsland, AR.

Happy Birthday to the Man In Black….Shame on us, DOB.

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

Matthew, Gonzalez is scheduled to pitch Friday vs. his old teammates. Just spoke to him about it, in fact.

By the way, you’ll all be glad to know I was just told by Pete Van Wieren that ALL Braves spring games that aren’t on the Braves radio network (14 of them are on that) will be carried on MLB.com, with Pete and the regular crew calling them on that feed. So that’s cool

Persecuted One, I’d ask you how you feel about that, but since it has nothing to do with you, your battles with me or Lew or anything else you-related, I’ll ask the others how they feel about it. You know, the ones who come to the blog to talk about baseball and music, stuff people actually find interesting.

By Matthew

February 27, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

News for today: I’m resigning from the school at the end of the year to begin semimary (not to be confused with the cemetary). I’m beginning my second master’s degree, this one in a combination of theology/Biblical languages/pastoral ministry. In leaving the public education system, though, I found a great song from the MIB that explains my situation:

You wired me awake and hit me with a hand of broken nails. You tied my lead and pulled my chain to watch my blood begin to boil.

But I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run. I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run.

Too cold to start a fire I’m burning diesel, burning dinosaur bones. I’ll take the river down to still water and ride a pack of dogs.

I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run. I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run.

When the forest burns along the road like God’s eyes in my headlights. When the dogs are looking for their bones and it’s raining icepicks on your steel shore.

I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my I’m gonna break my rusty cage and run. I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run. I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run. I’m gonna break I’m gonna break my gonna break my rusty cage and run.

I’m breaking out of the cage in May.

By Shaun

February 27, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

Someone said “Smoltz is 0-3 with a 7.71 ERA in his previous three Opening Day starts.”

Well, Smoltz is 189-131 with a 3.36 ERA in his 429 career starts. What’s more likely, that he’ll give up 7 runs on Opening Day or that he’ll give the Braves a chance to win? If you think those three Opening Day starts are more telling than those other 426 starts, you need to change your thinking.

Three starts is an extremely small sample size.

By Matthew

February 27, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Hillilly, they may ban us Arkansans for failing to mention the birthday of the Man in Black yesterday, but if it helps, I posted some Cash lyrics a moment ago and in my first teaching job (Warren-that’s down your way I think) my principal was a cousin to the Man in Black. I myself am a third or fourth cousin, but I’ll have to check our geneaology to be sure.

Go Braves!

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Hillbilly, I am ashamed. That’s now Elvis and Johnny’s birthdays I’ve overlooked this year. That’s just sad. Here I am blogging about the absolutely meaningless persecution complex of a bitter human who attacks others from beyond a keyboard and tries to make everyone as miserable as he is, while a great man who enriched millions of peoples’ lives with his brilliance, who made the world a better place, has his birthday go unnoticed on the blog named after him.

Damn! Shame on us. Anyway, thanks for pointing it out. And a belated happy birthday to the late, great Man In Black.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Yes Stinky-You’re as pure as the driven snow. How could I have missed it. Head Coach-I’m a bit more optimistic than you, also. I’m not even concerned with the Mets. They will self destruct (Like Stinky), though the Mets pitching staff will be the culprit, not a mental disorder. Their offense will not pull their fat from the fire this year. The Phillies are much more of a threat than the Mets. They have a good offense (though I expect Chase Utley won’t put up last year’s numbers), even though I’m not certain Wes Helms is the answer at third and who knows how Burrell will be this season. Their starting pitching is somewhat improved, though they all give up a substantial number of HR’s (more than one every six innings for all), and their middle relief is lousy. I’m also not sure Tom Gordon will put the numbers up this year. We will see. Now the Braves-Yes, there are questions at first and second. I think Thorman will be just fine. Much has been made of LaRoche’s defense, but it’s not like Thorman hasn’t played first before. He should be the equal of damn near every other NL first baseman. I’m also not overly concerned with the 2B situation. If KJ is really that bad defensively, we do have better fielding options. It’s not like we’re having to replace a huge offensive year from Giles. Yesterday is howed figures for the Left Filed platoon-a combined .282 BA with 14 HR and 60RBI from Diaz/Langerhans. Not all star numbers, but certainly solid. There is no reason to believe they will be any lower this year, with a pumped Diaz and a healthy Langerhans. Blanco, apparently, is also in the wings (good article DOB).

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

You folks will be happy to know, that there is hope. Real hope. Due to the avalanche of complaints they have received, the good folks who oversee this operation are apparently taking steps to end the scourge that has tried to singlehandedly bring down the Braves/Man in Black blog.

Cross your fingers and keep complaining to your local congressmen, or just keep letting us know here how you feel about the constant attacks on others and the bitter, antagonistic tone of certain folks’ posts.

By ncscoots

February 27, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

KC, while it’s true that It’s not like we’re having to replace a huge offensive year from Giles., I think the idea is to get better production out of 2B than last year. I don’t believe you’re saying that a .260 year from KJ would be acceptable, are you? Therefore, I don’t think that argument holds water, at least as a rationale for not being concerned.

By journalist jimmy smith

February 27, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! that will be a blessing! dob, that was not jimmy smith posting last night. this journalist left the blog in disgust after reading several ugly posts under the journalist jimmy smith moniker. perhaps now the blog can be redirected to baseball, toes, pie, barbecue, banana pudding, music, wurlitzers, and more baseball. yes, baseball … more hard swinging braves … rick camp.

By ernesto

February 27, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

How sad would that be in your life…to be banned from a blog? Ouch! Well you know what they say about hitting rock bottom, no where to go but up.

Now, DOB, will Thorman and Johnson be playing longer than most starters in these ST games to get more or is BC going to treat them like regular starters? I know they probably want to get a look at as many people as possible, but it sure does seem like KJ could use as much live action as possible.

In honor of the MIB’ belated Bday

Well, I left my motel room, down at the Starkville Motel, The town had gone to sleep and I was feelin’ fairly well. I strolled along the sidewalk ‘neath the sweet magnolia trees;

I was whistlin’, pickin’ flowers, swayin’ in the southern breeze. I found myself surrounded; one policeman said: “That’s him. Come along, wild flower child. Don’t you know that it’s two a.m.”

They’re bound to get you. ‘Cause they got a curfew. And you go to the Starkville City jail.

Well, they threw me in the car and started driving into town; I said: “What the hell did I do?” He said: “Shut up and sit down.”

Well, they emptied out my pockets, took my pills and guitar picks. I said: “Wait, my name is…” “Awe shut up.” Well, I sure was in a fix.

The sergeant put me in a cell, then he went home for the night; I said: “Come back here, you so and so; I ain’t bein’ treated right.”

Well, they’re bound to get you, cause they got a curfew, And you go to the Starkville City Jail.

I started pacin’ back and forth, and now and then I’d yell, And kick my forty dollar shoes against the steel floor of my cell. I’d walk awhile and kick awhile, and all night nobody came.

Then I sadly remembered that they didn’t even take my name. At 8 a.m. they let me out. I said: “Gimme them things of mine!” They gave me a sneer and a guitar pick, and a yellow dandelion.

They’re bound to get you, ‘cause they got a curfew, And you go to the Starkville City Jail.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Esteemed Journalist-The Wurlitzer prize should be back in Vermont tomorrow, waiting for the winner to get back home (good name for a song). The news of the AJC doing something positive, is positive. We shall see. I will no longer try to handle the Odiferous One by myself. He does not exist (maybe for real). Now-Rick Camp. I remember his 4th of July power surge. Quite a happening, it was.

By KC

February 27, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

HEAD COACH: If you’re not ready to predict that Atlanta will win the division… I have no problem with that whatsoever. I completely understand. It’s going to be a tough division.

But “Wild Card contender”??? You’re don’t even consider the Braves a legit contender for the division title??

By Lew

February 27, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Scoots-Actually, I said that one. Yes, I do believe a .260 season from KJ would be accpetable, as it would with Langerhans, but only if his defense is acceptable or better. If not, I would rather see Prado hit .260 with more stellar defense. It is not necessary to have superstar numbers at every position. It hasn’t helped the Yankees or Red Sox, has it?. If KJ hits .260, he will surely have better power numbers than Giles did.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

**TRUTH IN ADVERTISING**           I began to suspect it was all a ruse after I talked my mom into buying me a pair of "PF Flyers" when in was a kid and I still could not run any faster or jump any higher than I could before.

I was still a slow fat kid.

By KC

February 27, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

nscoots: No.

People keep bringing up Thorman, Johnson as reasons to call the 2007 Braves into question.

What I’m saying is this: Let’s just say we get similar production from 2B this year as last (not hard to imagine, given Giles’ performance)… then the only difference will be that we’re going from LaRoche to Thorman. That will likely be a net loss of something in the neighborhood of 10 homers and 20 RBI.

That’s a loss, but not enough to relegate us to the middle of the pack. This will still be one of the top 3 or 4 offensive teams in the league.

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

NEW BLOG POSTED. hopefully odor-free, but we shall see

By Tom

February 27, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

DOB: I have a bad feeling that Hampton is going to be rushed a bit if we stick with this idea of him just resuming where he left off before injury. I think it might be a good idea to DL him from the start to give him more time to get ready.

We know that the 5th starter isn’t normally needed until May so we could just throw in a Cormier/Harrison/Davies in his stead until we KNOW he’s ready to get going.

During that DL stint, couldn’t we see how he does in extended spring training?

Your thoughts?

By Greg in TN

February 27, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

Morning gang…

Good news on the potential of peace on the blog. Although I’m a relatively “young’un” in terms of others, I’ve really enjoyed the time here.

Happy belated birthday to the MIB, Patron Saint of the blog.

Wonderful news to hear that Pete and the gang will be available on feed throughout spring training. With all of the changes to the broadcast teams, this is a nice thing to hear about.

By Anonymous

February 27, 2007 01:05 PM | Link to this

The Braves will come in first this year and probably come in first the next couple of years because of the minors. They have an excellent minor league system.

By Rick Roberts

February 27, 2007 01:07 PM | Link to this

Predictions: NL East: Braves, Phils, Mets, Marlins, Nats NL Central: Astros, Brewers, Cubs, Cards, Reds, Pirates NL West: Padres, Dodgers, DBax, Giants, Rockies AL East: RSox, BJays, Yanks, O’s, DRays AL Central: Tigers, Indians, Twins, WSox, Royals AL West: Angels, M’s, A’s, Rangers

WSeries: RSox and Braves

Braves win with Bullpen. AJones is MVP.