Braves

By Tom

February 27, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Wow…what a gig that you’ve earned, DOB. I’m so pumped to get this thing going.

I made the point to several people the last two years that it would take a playoff-free year in order to get the baseball juices flowing in Atlanta like it was before. The Braves, and the fans, have a big chip on their shoulders and it feels good.

Will the audio on MLB.com be free to listen to?

Also, 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 Arkansas Hillbilly

February 27, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I heard a local radio station mention Cash’s b-day yesterday after I got off work, but by then it was too late to mention on the blog. (I’ve gotta get a computer at home.)

What time is the game on ESPN, Friday?

By Warren Haynes For President

February 27, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

I can’t wait for this season. I agree that as strange as it sounds it feels better without the division streak in play. It should be a fun year.

By tfbrave

February 27, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

I am definitely feeling the itch. I have already been given permission to take a 1/2 day vacation on Friday by the wife and the boss. So there is very little going to keep me from the TV set at 1pm on Friday. Lets go Braves.

By ncscoots

February 27, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

good points all, DOB. I think fans who have equated “business-like” with “lackadasical” have totally misjudged the competitive fire in these players. Just because the dog doesn’t bark doesn’t mean he doesn’t bite, and I think this dog just got kicked. And he..is…p*ed.

By Mets Stink

February 27, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

I’m wondering about Hampton too. It seems like after 18 or so months, he should be ready to go. After reading a few articles, it looks like the Braves are going very slow with him, almost too slow. Is there a realistic chance that Hampton won’t be ready to start the season? Is something else going on that we don’t know about?

By blazerpunter

February 27, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Great blog!! (first time writting, long time reader of your blogs DOB.) I am extremely excited about the season, even preseason for that matter!!

Also wanted to pass on a great article i just read about the braves on ESPN.com [http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/spring2007/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=2777169&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos2]

It almost gave me chill bumps at the end of the article talking about how good the braves could be this year and how vastly overlooked they have been to this point!!

By GTYjackets

February 27, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

I am so excited for this season to start. I haven’t been this excited about a braves season in a long time. We finally have a team built to win now and for the future. No more aging former all-stars at every position (see Yankees). We have a bunch of young guns ready to play and hungry to establish their own Braves legacy. Hey DOB, are into any new bands? My Chemical Romance’s new album The Black Parade is very good. Check it out if you haven’t already.

By Adam

February 27, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

The one thing I think the Braves have been lacking for several years is a high gear. They have always been built for the long haul which is why 14 straight division titles was possible. Problem hasn’t been making the playoffs but bringing there intensity to another level once the playoffs start. In the early years of the division titles they had that next gear but over the past 10 years the braves have been lacking that next gear. No sense of urgency. I don’t believe that they didn’t have drive to win, but the attitude was always we will win tomorrow if we lose today. I hope losing last year and not making the playoffs helps this years team to find that next gear and understand sometimes you have to win today and not wait for tomorrow.

By Greg in TN

February 27, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Morning gang…

Repeating my post from the last blog, but just to be fair, adding a little more for the new one.

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.

I agree with you, DOB. The streak was great and we all knew at some point there would be an end, but this gives the franchise a fresh start. I am quite ready for Friday night, and I’ll be watching along with many of the other blog denizens. Really looking forward to seeing Smoltz and Gonzalez against the Bucs.

By Rodger

February 27, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

I’m not seeing the movement to rush him back. As much as I may bash Cox, although I’m not donkey punching, he won’t push to fast.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

I’m definitely ready-especially after being snowed out of Spring Training. As far as Hampton goes-Why not bring him back slow? It makes worlds of sense to do so. As Tom mentioned, the fifth starter is not used as much early on, so why not let him go to #5. Later in the year it won’t make any difference where he pitches and it might just give him a less pressure-filled start to the season. He’ll be fine, but there is no need to take chances. We DO need him healthy.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

I think Hampton is facing reality. Pain hurts…. On the plus side, the Braves have so many fall back guys to turn to in case Hampton is not ready. As we learned last year. You never have too many starting pitchers.

By ssiscribe

February 27, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Lunch hour, 68 degrees with a slight breeze just a few miles outside the A, on the final Tuesday in February.

Ready for some baseball?

Five months of waiting for this time to get here, to get the team on the field in a game-type situation after the stumble of last season and the lack of respect and recognition from most of the planet all offseason.

Ready for some baseball?

Individual tickets go on sale in less than 48 hours. My two sons are so fired up, their first full season living in Atlanta. Both of them are wearing their hats and shirts, even though it’s late February.

Ready for some baseball?

It begins with an exhibition game against Georgia Tech tomorrow. Hopefully, it ends with 750,000 of us lining Peachtree Street, the confetti fluttering through the breeze and that big, shiny trophy with all those pennants parading its way toward Turner Field.

Ready for some baseball?

You better believe it.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Kentavo

February 27, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Hey, Braves.com says Friday’s game is at 1 p.m. and DOB says the game is at night?

Which is it?

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

I too share the eager anticipation of things getting started … we’ve waited for what seems to be an eternity … let’s get it on!

By ssiscribe

February 27, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

And a tip o’ da hat to two of the hardest-working guys in show bizness: DOB and Newberry, burnin’ it up in the press box at Lake Buena Vista.

The Man In Black would be proud, indeed.

First pitch for Friday is 1:05 p.m. I’ll be watching after I get home from Blueland Friday night.

Selah.

—30—

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

The Braves not so secret to success has been a deep pitching staff. Nearly every team has a good number one and two guy on their staff. It is the three four and five guy that you beat up on.

The Braves have always matched up so well with the front line guys. This year having James, Davis and a healthy Hampton spells trouble for the rest of the division.

It is going to be a great race this year……

By Charlie Hatton

February 27, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

The next three days will be a whirlwind, with the first game, first real game, and the first televised game hitting us like a jab-jab-hook combo. The appearance of Smoltzie and Gonzalez against the Bucs on TV is icing on the cake.

But the first really important performances are likely to come a week from today. Kyle Davies is scheduled to start that game against the Nats, and Hampton may get his first two post-injury innings of live hitters under his belt, too.

That’ll be our first glimpse at the two real ‘wildcards’ in the starting rotation. I’m betting that Smoltz, Hudson, and James deliver more or less as predicted, which means that as Hampton and Davies go — or don’t go, opening the door for Cormier, Harrison, and/or Boyer — so go the Braves’ hopes.

And I’m starting to wish that Tuesday game was televised, too.

Charlie / Bugs & Cranks

By Kieran from Long Island

February 27, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Semi-Relevant Story on Sidney Ponson and his VISA woes. Whether his situation in Aruba relates to Aybars at all, I do not know, but It is clear the Twins aren’t happy…

From ESPN.com…

-Sidney Ponson has yet to obtain a work visa from his native Aruba, and he cannot pitch in a spring training game until he does so. He said Monday that he was getting it worked out, but manager Ron Gardenhire wasn’t happy about the suspense.

“It’s something we were hoping would get taken care of,” Gardenhire said. “You don’t want to get held back because they haven’t gone and gotten this taken care of and we’re already starting to get held back by it.”

Gardenhire spoke with general manager Terry Ryan about the matter on Monday morning, and the Twins were working with Ponson and his agent to make sure everything comes together.

“We need this to happen now. We want him pitching. For him to make our ball club, he has to pitch. He can’t miss starts and miss starts and not pitch. … We’re very serious about that.”

By hk

February 27, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Bob …

… well said on your 3:36am post this morning … you just may have turned the tide … will be interesting to see how this new blog plays out ..

By 3trees

February 27, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

I believe it, scribe, I believe it. Ain’t setting a wonderful thing? Beautiful here today (as it was yesterday).

Really dug the setting in your Blog Starter, DOB. Never ceases to amaze me how much you feel the weather in FL. Especially as you get south and you’re more exposed to weather on either coast. That little spit of land sticking out into the Gulf and the Ocean (actually, a pretty large land mass, but I digress).

Speaking of digressing… just kidding. I’ve been out, I guess things got hairy here again. Oh, well. Things got hairy for JRCash a few times too and he pulled through. Well, he didn’t JUST pulled through, he shone. Shine on JRC.

Streak? What streak? Go Braves!

By ssiscribe

February 27, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Charlie: Great points above. Indeed, wish all the games were on TV. But if they were, I wouldn’t get much sleep. Need to snooze as much as I can between now and the first week in April.

Grinch: Didn’t catch up with you on the last blog, but I guess with Le Thrash I should follow the advice I’d been given on here about LaRoche/Gonzalez: Gotta give up something to get something. Love the moves today (claim Krog, cut Kappenen and Hamel). Big win last night, indeed.

Can’t wait for Friday: Thrashers at night, go home, watch tape of Braves game. Ah, life is grand.

Time to write! Later, denizens.

—30—

By Carolina Gent

February 27, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

DOBeatWriter, I’ve gotta appreicate your excitement. You sound pretty pumped yourself! It’s nice to see that, since a lot of journalists do’t want their readers to know they actually get excited about things (other than about Johnny Cash, that is).

By 22oz

February 27, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

I thought the game was at 1 pm, i had planned to tape it since i would be at work. i am super psyched for this season, no doubt about it.

By MostHonorableSouthern

February 27, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Bob, journalist,—after reading your 3:06 A.M. post from the previous blog(of which I do agree)I had to return to state the obvious one final time. After much self-reproach, and speaking from a position of been there, done that, I must say that those in charge of maintaining order in these blogs have done as much to promote the degradation as they have to prevent it. Having been one of those despicable bloggers myself, I will tell you this, the thing that fueled my passion for attacking others more than anything else was the fact that certain bloggers seemed to be above reproach, and were allowed to make comments of any nature, and to use other bloggers names at will. They appeared to have a protective shield, or a free pass to do, or say, anything they so desired, and that without any consequences whatsoever. All of you know this to be true.

What I’m trying to say is this, “There is no justice for any unless there is justice for all”. If AJC is going to punish anyone for their transgressions, then AJC needs to dispense that punishment in an equal and fair manner—no matter who that blogger is, or how popular, or how well-liked that blogger may be. So, AJC, do what you have to do, but do it with the blinders of equity shielding your eyes, because when everybody is standing in the pigsty, nobody has clean boots!

DOB, you’re a brilliant fellow, just learn how to let more stuff bounce off of you than what you let stick…

Bob, journalist, that anger that you mentioned feeling, well I’m very acquainted with that same devil in many different ways myself. You’re a swell fellow, wish I could have known you, without the masks!…

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

HK, Thanks!

The proof of the pudding will be in the bananas.

By RC

February 27, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Kieran,

Interesting on the Ponson situation. I wonder how much different it is though, because I don’t think there are nearly as many players coming from Aruba as there are from the Dominican. There are so few in fact, that I’m pretty sure Ponson was knighted, since Sir Sidney Ponson is the possibly the most famous native of Aruba. Therefore there really should be no line for him to wait in, unlike Aybar.

By RC

February 27, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Also, as a position player Ayber is only a few days late…pitchers and catchers were supposed to report back on the 15th.

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

This just in (only small letters, not caps): Aybar is expected to be here Thursday. Just got that from Frank Wren.

Kieran, that is interesting about Ponson. I knew he’s had some trouble down there in past and wasn’t going to go back, so maybe they’re getting their justice. Who knows?

By RC

February 27, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

DOB: I know there haven’t been any games played yet, but have you heard any indication of who might have the best chance at the last two bullpen slots? Seems like since pitchers have been down a little longer some opinions may have begun forming on these guys.

By 10-7-4

February 27, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Hooray,hooray—better days ahead for the blog. Now if we can just get C.Lady, and flbravesgirl back, we will have restored much lost class and grace. addio

By ElbravoX

February 27, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

I am taking the day off on Friday-fore!

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Hampton threw today, said he felt some discomfort in his elbow throwing breaking balls. Bobby raved about how “free and easy” he threw, but Hampton didn’t sound at all optimistic or pleased.

I don’t know, I’m starting to get a little bit doubtful that he’s going to be ready to pitch in spring games for at least another week or so, but we’ll see. At this point, I wouldn’t take any bets on the opening day rotation. Not saying I doubt he’ll be in it, but not feeling confident that he will, either….

Workout’s over, the fellas are scattering, some headed to golf course (Smoltz, Francoeur, etc) and others headed to the pond right down the street from Wide World of Sports to do a little bass fishing.

Golfin’ and fishin’, these boys do a lot of both.

Oh, and Bobby just assured me he didn’t even think about Gonzalez pitching against Pittsburgh. Just the way it fell, he said.

By Shaun

February 27, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

O’Brien,

Any chance Schuerholz can pull off any deals for another solid starter?

By MGL

February 27, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

The fresh scent of spring is in the air and the blog is also smelling fresher. Baseball starts tomorrow - Go Braves!!!

By WHAT TIME IS THE GAME

February 27, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Is the game on Fri a day game or a night game? braves.com says day, DOB says night. I’m guessing DOB is probably in Fla, wasted on mojitos and talking out of his a$$, so I’m leaning toward a 1:00 pm start. Does anyone know for sure?

By RC

February 27, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Shaun, you read my mind. It wouldn’t even have to be that solid of a starter, just someone who can give us a good number of innings if needed and add a little depth to the rotation.

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

MostHonorableSouthern, you’re ok with me…

By Mike S

February 27, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

DOB, Did you see who’s fishing? Any chance for a special appearance @ the Bass Pro Shops?

By John R. Cash

February 27, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Mornin’ found me lyin’ on a floor in New Orleans.

Lookin’ like the patches was about to eat my jeans.

Feelin’ like my belly was a warehouse for the blues.

And I sure miss my sweet Cocaine Carolina…..

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 27, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Find out what they’re biting and who catches the most….. ;-)

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 27, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Mike S,

I was just wondering the same thing. Without knowing, I would guess Langerhans as a fisherman. Maybe Paranto, McBride?

By SeattleBrave'sFan

February 27, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

I’m jacked!. Keep it coming DOB. While I wouldn’t trade the last 14 years for anything, I agree that in a weird way losing the streak will prove beneficial for this team. The renewed sense of life in this team and fanbase is undeniable.

By Thrillhouse44

February 27, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

I’m more excited than a 14 year old boy who just intercepted his sister’s Victoria’s Secret catalog. I can’t wait for this season!!! I just hope Hampton’s elbow starts to respond positively.

By TennesseePaul

February 27, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Hampton didn’t sound at all optimistic or pleased

WHAT!?!?! But KC said all off season he’d be fine. Could put up to 15 wins. Had the full 18 months and yadda yadda yadda. j/k.

I wonder how much of that is Hampton’s head, expectations and fears, or just comptetive/higher standards. You have to go with what he says because he’s the only one who knows what he feels. But, I don’t know, is it that common to have serious injuries following TJ surgery? You know, KC said…

We’ll see. I think once he gets a few innings under his belt he’ll start breathing easy and get on a roll. He might have some set backs, but I’m not terribly concerned. It could simply be related to 17 months of not pitching. Pitching isn’t a natural motion to begin with. I haven’t thrown in years. If I were to go out there now and toss for 10 minutes, my arm would hurt. Doesn’t really mean I need major surgery or I’m finished. Just need to get the arm used to the way things were.

By SeattleBrave'sFan

February 27, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

DOB…I may have missed this in the blog somewhere the last few days. But what is the word on some of the other bullpen guys. Paronto? McBride? Boyer? Devine? guys like that in terms of how they are throwing?

By geauxbraves2000

February 27, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Maybe Hampton will be ready by the all star break. 2008. (Sorry, just a little annoyed at this situation, not blaming Hampton, but he’s making HoRam seem like a healthy stud)

That being said, yes, I am ready for some baseball. I’m pumped about this year’s bullpen. Have the lead after 6 and let them slam the door. What a difference a year makes, don’t it?

Geaux Braves!!

By Mike S

February 27, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Thorman and Orr maybe?? I don’t think they will find much trout or salmon in Orlando.(Or whatever they fish for in Canada)

By J-dogg

February 27, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Wy isnt anybody talking about Villeral as the 5th starter? I think he has the stuff to be as good as any other options we have

By KC

February 27, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

TennPaul:

I’ll admit that my early expectations were probably too optimistic. I thought he was getting more work in over the winter than he actually did. My expectations were based on the impression that he was getting much of this kind of stuff out of the way prior to spring. But I hear now that he took it fairly slow and easy over the winter. My expectations for Hampton have changed over the last month or so.

However, I always said not to expect much from him in the first half of the season. I went on record months ago as hoping for an ERA between 4.00-4.50 over an average of 5-6 innings per game over the first half.

I think the 18 month (as opposed to 12 month) recovery period will play more of a role in the 2nd half. There are going to be some early issues, but I don’t think they’ll last as long as they would for a guy who only had 12 months to recover before the season.

I still have high hopes that he can post an ERA of under 4.00 in the 2nd half, and be relatively sharp when October rolls around. As for the “15 wins” thing, yes, I believe he can win 15 games. But you have to understand, with this offense (which will still be one of the best in the league), and the best bullpen in baseball… I don’t think 15 wins is all that lofty a goal for any Braves starter. Steve Trachsel won 15 with an ERA of nearly 5.00 simply because of run and bullpen support.

15 wins this year is kind of like 10 wins last year. Any Braves’ starter that makes close to 30 starts this year will have a chance to win 15.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Baseball is back. Life is good. Now, if only (sighs)

By Robert

February 27, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

From CBS Sportsline.com

http://sportsline.com/mlb/story/10026146

Basically, the veterans committee elected noone to the HOF. Santo got fairly close. Marv Miller got a big boost in support

Did noone on that body ever watch Dick Allen play?

By N8

February 27, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

DOB

What’s your “gut” if Hampton is not ready to go on opening day? Does that mean that Bobby would go with BOTH Davies and Cormier in the Rotation? Or would that open the door for McBride to “spot start” until Hampton is ready? Or, the third option (most likely, IMO), go with Smoltz, Hudson, James, and the two “hottest hands” during the spring? Or would they look for another arm off of the scrap heap?

Sorry for so many questions, it’s just that we’ve all been ASSUMING Hampton would be ready to go, even if he wasn’t ready to pitch 9 innings. Never really dawned on me, that he might need another month or so before he’s back.

I myself, would rather they take it SLOW AND EASY with Hampton (which also is dictated by his honesty in how he feels recovering from throwing), and have him be healthy than to have him blow out his arm in April or May and be done for the year.

I’ll also assume that Bobby wouldn’t go with a 4 man rotation that early in the year. Though one could argue that with the new and improved bullpen, it would/could be a distinct possibility.

L8R

By Robert

February 27, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

“Hopefully, it ends with 750,000 of us lining Peachtree Street, the confetti fluttering through the breeze and that big, shiny trophy with all those pennants parading its way toward Turner Field.”

Not likely, unless Cox’s job description changes from manager to either mascot or unemployed

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

N8, regarding this question: “What’s your “gut” if Hampton is not ready to go on opening day? Does that mean that Bobby would go with BOTH Davies and Cormier in the Rotation.”

Yes. Unless one falls on his face or gets hurt this spring, that’s what I’d expect to see. But who knows, Matt Harrison could be lights-out all spring and give them a second lefty in place of Hampton. But it’s not something I’d be expecting, not at all.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

“Bobby raved about how “free and easy” he threw, but Hampton didn’t sound at all optimistic or pleased. “

DOB - does this perhaps, just maybe, suggest something to you? (that Cox is cloooo-LESS)

By KC

February 27, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000: I feel ya man, but we should probably chill out about Hampton. He didn’t get much work over the winter, so this is normal stuff. He might miss a start at the beginning of the season, but for the rest of the first half he’ll have a healthy offense and an outstanding bullpen to take the pressure off.

My eyes are on the second half of the season. I think there’s a very good chance that he can be in good situation after the all-star break, once his arm is broken-in… well, maybe broken-in is a bad choice of words, but you get the point.

And come October, he will have had 2 years to recover and a full (post-surgery) season under his belt… so he could very well be the Hampton of old come playoff time.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

“Oh, and Bobby just assured me he didn’t even think “

Nice of ole Donk to confirm what we all already knew

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Hee-Haw, Robert! Hee-Haw!

By BravesFaninRockies

February 27, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

If Bobby goes with a 4-man, 5-day rotation, there are enough scheduled days off so that you’d only need to use a 5th starter twice before May 1.

That may be the Braves’ best option if Hamp can’t go (or if he’s used as the 5th guy for the first few weeks of the season). Unless, as you say DOB, somebody comes out of the woodwork or one of the back-of-the-rotation guys collapses.

I’d much rather have the Braves’ worries pitching worries than, shall we say, the Mets’?

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

WHAT TIME, it’s indeed a 1:05 p.m. game. Just used to those night games being the ones normally televised down here. Or just talking out of my a%$, either one.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

“Hee-Haw, Robert! Hee-Haw!”

Braveheart, you dont know how overjoyed I will be on the day we no longer hear that sound emanating from the Braves dugout

Take that back. Heck, keep him. Make him team mascot and let him hee-haw and let the players and fans dote on him til the cows come home. Just dont let him make any decisions relating to how the Braves play baseball.

By 22oz

February 27, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

WHAT TIME IS THE GAME FRIDAY? DO I NEED TO SET RECORD FOR 1 PM? EVERYWHERE BUT THIS BLOG SAYS ITS AT 1 PM.

By hk

February 27, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

MostHonorableSouthern …

… like the one you posted the other day, a lot of good stuff in your 12:56pm …

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

This appears to be quite the fine blog. I’ll have mine with no drama, thank you, and enjoy just the same. Here’s hoping Hampton’s elbow holds up and that he has a great season! Friday can’t get here quick enough for this seasoned, to avoid the o-l-d word, fan…

By Sir Stealth

February 27, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

I swear to God I will never watch or discuss baseball with anyone named Robert again unless they agree to forever go by “Bobby.”

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Most Honorable Southern, I just returned after a short break to address private matters following my short answer to HK’s post … saw yours as I was scrolling past.

Was pleased to see your name and directionally agree with all you articulated!

As I was privately telling someone earlier … though we’ve had somewhat of a prior history, you’re one with whom I’d share a foxhole … there ain’t that many, my friend!

I appreciate the kind words … and genuinely share the feeling. The only significant difference between me and my mask is that one is what I am and the other is what I wish I were. Probably like most folks, the gap between the two is much greater that I’d like but I do sincerely try to closing it as much as is possible. Unfortunately, my success in doing that strongly resembles the level of success I’ve enjoyed in fighting apathy and bad behavior. I ain’t giving up though!

Methinks your sharp third eye has given you a pretty fair idea of what’s behind the mask but don’t spread the word … I’m short and it’s rather nice to a few people looking up for a change.

Gotta run … a back back demands a hot tub and some rest from the computer.

Later

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

don’t really agree with you robert. but i love the passion, man

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

is this pretty much going to be the opening day roster: mccann, pena, thorman, johnson, edgar, chipper, frenchy, andruw, langerhans, diaz, wilson, aybar, woodward?

and then the pitchers: smoltz, hudson, james, hampton, wickman, soriano, gonzo, villereal, cormier, with i guess 4, maybe 5 pitching spots being up for grabs with the fifth starter and middle relievers (and possibly the fourth starter if hampton can’t go early)?

haven’t heard much about sturtze though. is he getting close to healthy? what is the word on sturtze? from what i have seen in the past, he is not a great pitcher but joe torre seemed to love him because he would eat up innings, take the ball whenever the manager asked him to, and came up big in some very important spots during his time with the yankees. when they signed him, i think it was reported that he would miss the first month. what is the prognosis now?

DOB, thanks for clearing up the importance of the Wilson signing for me yesterday. I went on a rant the day before about the wilson signing not being good but you pretty made very strong points otherwise.

back to yesterday’s topic of pretty swingers and violent swingers, isn’t Jim Thome a rather odd blend of both?

By Bob, journalist

February 27, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

One quick comment before I slip into the tub … Tom Jefferson said something to the effect “When you’re mad, count to 10 before you respond … when you’re really mad, count to 100!”

In this morning’s wee hours, I counted to 100 and should’ve counted to 1000!

By Brave Dawg

February 27, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Will Skip and the boys be broadcasting the games starting against GT? I assume they will, but could someone confirm?

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Sir Stealth:

I would much rather prefer if Robert would plainly and simply go by Bob ;-(

By ernesto

February 27, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Robert - check out that link from blazerpunter, it’s a Ron Stark article where he calls BC one of, no wait, the best manager in baseball today.

Just another idiot who doesn’t know what he’s talking about right, Champ?

Why do I even bother? Do you really have anything to say other than Hee-haw? Or Bobby sucks? Or with the talent we’ve had we should have won 14 of the last 14 WS. In that article Smoltz says the last 4 years he didn’t think the team should have won, and they won anyway.

But what would Smoltz know? Right?

By Brave Dawg

February 27, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Will all preseason games be broadcast on the radio?

By ernesto

February 27, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/spring2007/columns/storycolumnist=stark_jayson&id=2777169&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos2

there’s the link, and it’s Jayson Stark, my bad.

By Bugger

February 27, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Me, I’m glad the national media are picking the Bravos third. Being underestimated is an advantage.

Hey, Newberry’s good. Why don’t you two switch jobs?

By journalist jimmy smith

February 27, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

bob, journalist a massage sounds nice. don’t forget to have the toes massaged as well…

By N8

February 27, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

DOB….thanx for the response.

Kinda figured so, seems to be common sense if they’re battling for 5th spot, that they would be 4 & 5 in the rotation if Hampton (or ANYBODY) goes down.

But, as I said. THANX.

Also, DOB, I noticed you made a comment about watching “24” last night. Is that one of your favorites? I’ve haven’t missed an epsiode from the beginning. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the format of the show. Get’s a little far fetched sometimes, but still keeps you guessing.

Do you watch LOST?

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

bob (pas), slipping into the tub? i don’t know about the rest of you but that was a tad bit TMI for me.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

“But what would Smoltz know? Right?”

Smoltz knows that he is comfortable in a Braves uniform and wants to retire a Brave. He also knows that anyone who upsets Cox doesnt stay a Brave for long. Smoltz would tell you with a straight face that the BIG Donk invented the wheel if it meant keeping his Braves gig

By Robert

February 27, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

“Robert - check out that link from blazerpunter, it’s a Ron Stark article where he calls BC one of, no wait, the best manager in baseball today.

Just another idiot who doesn’t know what he’s talking about right, Champ?”

Possibly. Either that, or he is a fan of another team and knows that the Braves are harmless in the postseason as long as the mascot manages the team

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 27, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

braveheart, from the reports I’ve seen Sturtze is a lot further from being healthy than the Braves say he is. It has been the organization’s MO to under report most medical conditions and injuries of players within the Braves family for as long as I can remember.

I doubt he would be ready before June or July from the rumors but then, that is just rumors.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

On the front page of ajc.com, click on “Today’s Braves pics” and go to number 7 out of 7.

“Mickey Carroll, 87, autographs 8 x 10 black and white pictures for fans. Carroll is one of two remaining “munchkins” alive from the 1939 movie “Wizard of Oz”. Carroll has given four ruby pins to four baseball managers and all four have won the World Series. He planned to give one to Braves manager Bobby Cox, thereby risking losing his perfect record and getting s** stains on one of his ruby pins”

By ernesto

February 27, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Smoltz knows that he is comfortable in a Braves uniform and wants to retire a Brave. He also knows that anyone who upsets Cox doesnt stay a Brave for long. Smoltz would tell you with a straight face that the BIG Donk invented the wheel if it meant keeping his Braves gig

Robert - Now I know why you limit yourself to Hee-Haw. Wow! Does being that stupid hurt? Or is it painless?

By RC

February 27, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

“We weren’t a good team the past 4 years.” Yeah, I could see how that comment might be viewed as someone who would say anything to keep their job with that team….I’m not arguing with you Robert, because I know that is futile. Just pointing out for the other bloggers that Smoltz has never been one to say anything but what he thinks, sometimes when it probably would be better for him to sugar coat the truth.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 27, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

The Hillbilly thinks the Brave that fishes with a white spinnerbait or a watermelon seed carolina-rigged lizard today will fill his stringer fastest. =-)

By Arkansas Hillbilly

February 27, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

There you have it, folks. A munchkin will lead us to the promised land….And his name shall not be Marcus Giles.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Ernesto - So noone has ever sugarcoated an assessment of their boss to keep a comfortable job?

Or are you saying that guys who get on Cox’s bad side dont disappear kinda like Jimmy Hoffa did?

Or do you buy the fact that a player thought that a team with three HOF pitchers leading off the rotation had no chance at being a winning team?

By RC

February 27, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Speaking of the ruby pins, Cox already has won the World Series, so he’s basically assured 5 for 5. I really would prefer not to hear about any kind of stains on this blog, edited or not. All bloggers are entitled to their views, but they are not entitled to profanity, even if it’s just one letter followed by *.

By Robert

February 27, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

““We weren’t a good team the past 4 years.”

Um, and except for last year’s Mets, and Florida in ‘03 in the postseason only, neither was anyone else in the NL East. Someone had to win the division.

I can not believe that y’all take it to mean more that the team won a weak division when it wasnt quite so loaded than what it means that the team couldnt win anything BUT the same weak division when they were loaded for donkey year after year

What DIFFERENCE does it make if the team wins a weak division with a team with ONLY three HOFers when the manager they have couldnt win jack with 8?

They werent a GREAT team the last 4 years. OK. Remember what a good team is in Smoltz’s context.

MY point is that it doesnt matter - even when they WERE (or coulda been, to be more accurate) a great team, BIG Donk was there to screw it up (and he did, year after year after dagblasted year)

By NO CHOP ZONE

February 27, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

OK lets start warming up……..**LETS GO METS, LETS GO METS, LETS GO METS, LETS GO METS!!!!!

By Novice Ned

February 27, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

DOB, how about Villanueva as a starter to fill-in for Hampton? Dude looked good in that role last season. Seems that there may be more depth in the bullpen (assuming Boyer, Stockman, Foster, etc. are healthy) and Oscar has done it before at the big league level. Just wanted to toss that idea out.

Also, did it strike you as strange for Hampton to be so candid about his throwing session? Most athletes would say something positive just to avoid the scrutiny. Makes me wonder if he is lowering expectations (and really feels fine) or if he is thinking that his career may be done (and is attempting to be optimistic). There’s no way you can actually take anyone for their word, is there?

By Earl

February 27, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Speaking of the Braves being on TV, when will their TV schedule be out?

By Scott

February 27, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

I’m so ready for some baseball. It takes forever for the winter to go by so I can get my next fix. I can’t wait to get opening day tickets in a couple of days.

LETS GO BRAVES!!!!!

By Robert

February 27, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

“Also, did it strike you as strange for Hampton to be so candid about his throwing session? “

I for one find it refreshing when an athlete is honest and direct. Now does it mean that he is done? Does it mean he wont improve the next time out and have a good year, or a great year? Does it mean anything other than frustration in a guy who had a roguh first go and who is surely going to face some more tough days coming back after 18 months out? No,not necessarily. Not at this point. But it’s nice that a guy can say “Today I stunk”. Gets my respect.

As little as Hampton’s comment and results meant, it was a thousand times more informative than Cox’s “Hee Haw” assessment of Hampton’s throwing session

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

February 27, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

I think we should be careful not to make more of this Hampton situation than what it is. Cox is being too optimistic and Hampton is being too pesimistic. Hampton wants to be 100% right now and that simply is unrealistic. He won’t be 100% probably until May or June. I think some of it is probably in his head also. McDowell warned that it can take an extra year for a pitcher to mentally get over the surgery. If Hampton is still feeling this way in two weeks, it is time to be concerned. But, until then I’m not panicking.

However, with all that being said, I contended all winter the Braves should have picked up a cheap 4 or 5 starter for insurance. I still say that. What would the likes of Mark Redman be willing to sign for?

By Robert

February 27, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/02/25/0226bravesrail.html

Things are looking good for young Matt Harrison

“He was exceptionally good,” said Cox, who announced before the workout the 21-year-old would start the annual college exhibition game that precedes the Grapefruit League schedule. “I’m looking forward to seeing him Wednesday.”

The Braves’ top pitching prospect has only 12 starts above Class A and isn’t a likely candidate for the opening day roster. But Cox said he hasn’t been entirely ruled out of consideration.

When asked what he liked about him, Cox said, “everything you’d want. He’s 6-6 or so [6 feet 4], he’s got that good downward plane, his fastball is 90-plus [mph], good change-up, and his curveball’s in play, he’s working on it. Plus, he brings me an apple slice and some sugar cubes every morning”

By Robert

February 27, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2007/02/27/0227hampton.html

Here’s Donk on Hampton

“I thought he was good today, real good,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said. “He was free and easy [in his delivery]. Mike’s not happy he’s not 100 percent yet, but for me, there’s been no setbacks. Today was a good day.”

For you there’s been no setbacks. That is just choice. Of course it’s been a good day for you, Bobby. Matt Harrison brought you an apple slice and some sugar cubesm,and YOUR elbow didnt hurt after trying to throw a breaking ball.

I swear Bobby Cox is as dumb as you can get without being legally deckared retarded

By Wayne in UT

February 27, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

To All

Translation for all past and future blogs by “Robert”:

Blah blah blah, blah blah bla Blah blah blah, blah blah blah Blah blah blah, blah blah bla Blah blah blah, blah blah blah Blah blah blah, blah blah bla Blah blah blah, blah blah blah Blah blah blah, blah blah bla Blah blah blah, blah blah blah.

Now everything is much more clear.

Hee Haw!

By Navigator

February 27, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Hampton is going to make this team, but the Braves will keep him around until June. By that time they will have wasted the time and effort they could have used bringing a prospect into the fold. We should finally admit it, that we lost our “rocking pitching coach”, we lost what made the braves great. Good, let’s have another bad season, and finally cut Cox loose. We gave him all of credit for winning, now let’s give him the same credit for losing.

By Tomahawkin

February 27, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Dude where did everybody go?

By Metropolitan Man

February 27, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Need to borrow one of our underdeveloped arms????

By Greg in TN

February 27, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

Hey everyone…

The Veterans Committee pitched a shutout today, no one will join Ripken and Gwynn on induction day in Cooperstown.

Ron Santo came the closest to the hall. Of the 62 votes or 75 percent needed for induction, Santo garnered 57 votes (70%). Jim Kaat had 52 votes, Gil Hodges received 50 votes and Tony Oliva gained 47.

Umpire Doug Harvey received 52 votes to lead the composite ballot. Former player’s union head Marvin Miller received 51.

I need to preface my comments below to include the fact that I am not a big Joe Morgan fan (aside from the homer for the Giants in ‘82 that got us in the playoffs) while he’s been in the booth for ESPN. I had to shake my head at these two quotes attributed to him.

“We’re being blamed because something hasn’t happened. If you’re asking me, ’Do we lower our standards to get more people in?’ my answer would be no.”

Seems like a pretty straightforward quote to me and I agree with it, however, he followed that up with this when speaking about Dick Williams, Whitey Herzog, Walter O’Malley and Charlie Finley on the composite ballot.

“It is difficult for some of the players or me to evaluate their performance on a Hall of Fame level. It is much easier for me to evaluate the players,” Morgan said.

Huh Joe? Doesn’t make sense to me that you would complain about getting heat for not voting anyone in, then you’re turning around and implying that you may not be suitable as a voter for at least the composite ballot. The story that I read is from MSNBC’s site, where I just happened to run across the story first rather than the usual sports sites, however that has me thinking that the whole Veterans Committee process probably needs to be redone, again. It was mentioned in the story that changes may be considered. The link is below:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17347657/

By JJMB

February 27, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

I think it’s all about Chipper staying healthy. He’s the heart of this team.

Hurry up April 2nd!

By Yars

February 27, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

I hope Hampton stops pushing himself, (I truly believe that’s what he’s doing)& takes it one day at a time. If Hampton does miss some starts in the beginning of the season, I have a lot of faith in both Cormier & Villarreal. This Matt Harrison kid seems like the real deal. What if he were to have a lights out spring? Then what? Aside from Hampton, I am so happy that everyone is healthy, (Chipper’s feet are holding up, Kelly Johnson’s surgically repaired elbow is fine, ect…) Like most of you, I have been a Braves fan for a long, long time but for some reason, I am more excited this season than ever before. DOB……….have you heard Johnny Cash’s cover of the Depeche Mode song, ‘Personal Jesus’? It’s really good. He also did a cover of the Nine Inch Nails song, ‘Hurt’. If there are any NIN fans out there, their new album, ‘Year Zero’ comes out April 27. DOB………what do you think of bands such as Mode & NIN? Too electronic rocky for you?

By brian

February 27, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Navigator = Robert?????????

Can’t be. Too concise. Just as off base. But at least concise

By Lew

February 27, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Metro Dude-No, we have no need of any Mets’ pitcher-besides you need all the help you can get. If Hampton is unable to go, we can always use Davies and Cormier and still have Villarreal in reserve. Our bullpen is so deep it shouldn’t be a problem to plug someone else in as long relief and use Oscar. Also, it’s looking more and more like Matt Harrison might just be about ready. No worries here. Don’t you just wish the Mets could say the same?

By ssiscribe

February 27, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Is anybody out there really surprised Mike Hampton isn’t ready to go out there and pitch, oh, eight innings?

I mean, come on. Dude hasn’t pitched in the bigs in nearly two years, hasn’t thrown breaking balls since the instructional league last winter. He’s coming off extremely difficult surgery, one that has shut him down since part of 2005.

Yet, to see some of the comments floating around the old Braves/MIB/Pies/Toes blogosphere, you’d think the Braves have just lost Hampton on the eve of the National League Championship Series.

As I posted Sunday, after Hampton threw Saturday, him being ready to go five or six innings on opening day is the goal. This is going to be a very slow process and there will be plenty of bumps in the road in getting Hampton back into the rotation. John Smoltz said as much himself on 680 The Fan this afternoon — I heard that and part of the Tim Hudson interview driving home from work — that the road back for Hampton is longer than people realize.

And Smoltz should know. He’s been down that long road back from major arm surgery a time or two … or three … or four.

We’re not going to see Mike Hampton pitching deep into games until, perhaps, the All-Star Break. But that’s OK. Whatever Hampton can give the Braves the first half of the season — as he continues to return both physically and mentally, as he continues to leap the hurdles that he faces in his return — will be nice. But Hampton really will make his impact in the second half of the season, once he’s got 10-15 starts or so under his belt.

Slow and steady wins the race, and that’s the mindset Hampton, the Braves and those denizens of Braves Nation need to have when it comes to the long-awaited return of the southpaw wearing No. 32.

The Scribe abides. Peace.

—30—

By No Chop Zone

February 27, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

The Braves pitching looked good in spring training last year too.

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Yars, of course I’ve got all those Cash covers _ all five American Recordings albums, plus the five-CD Unearthed box. Got to have that stuff, my man. Reznor said he could never listen to his own version the same way after The Man In Black did it so much better.

The video for Hurt is the finest music video ever made, in my opinion. I have it on DVD and I swear, every time I watch it it gives me chills and usually brings a tear to my eye, I kid you not. Just incredibly powerful.

I liked early NIN a lot, though i don’t play the CDs much anymore. At the time it was so original and hard, just rockin’ stuff. I saw NIN live one time on South Beach at this pretty small club, so Trent was about 5 feet from us. Good show.

I don’t mind admitting I liked, and actually still like, the early Depeche Mode _ Some Great Reward, Music for the Masses, Black Celebration. Again, I don’t listen to it anymore, but some still sounds pretty cool when you haven’t heart it in a while. They were just so ridiculously fey, though, and also a lot of it started to sound dated, so was a bit tough to stay into that stuff as I got older.

I knew a girl who worked for a promoter in South Florida and got us front-row tickets for a Depeche Mode show in about 1990 in Miami, at the old Miami Arena. Pretty cool show, from what I vaguely (very vaguely) remember.

But yes, as you figured, I did move away from the electronic stuff eventually, and was never, ever into that rave crap and electronic, no-lyrics stuff in the late 1990s.

There’s a good band from Omaha, The Faint, that makes some really retro-sounding stuff with synths, but also lot of guitar. You heard ‘em?

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

lowering the standards, joe? come on, joe. you can use a better choice of words than that. robert would probably like that honesty but that ain’t the right way to say it. if you don’t vote them in, just say something like the voters had the chance to vote and the voters decided what they decided and leave it at that. if you don’t want to go to the prom with the guys who asked you, just tell them no. you don’t need to insult the guy and go into detail about why you don’t want to go to the prom with him. a simple no would have sufficed. you don’t add insult to injury. robert you might like joe’s honesty but i have some advice for both of you, If you live by the sword, you die by the sword. How much crying would Joe do if ESPN finally canned him but then ESPN said well we had to do it because we realized that we had been lowering our standards keeping him around for no apparent reason all these years? Oh Joe would be crying a river about it, there is no doubt about that.

greg in TN, you are so right too. on the one hand to say what he did but then to pass the buck on the very next issue. i guess what he is saying is that he is not a former manager or owner so he can not judge them. it is not like whitey,dick, finley, omalley are obscure names that you have to be a baseball historian to know. he was playing when most of them were influential. he should know better than anyone whether they deserve to be in or not. the man has been involved in professional ball for almost 45 or so years but does not think he is qualified to vote on the issue. then, you know what, joe, give up your right to vote. if i recall correctly he was the biggest crybaby about letting HOFers have the right to vote and now he wants to say, I can not say whether anyone other than players deserve the hall? whatever, dude

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

metroman, did you mean underpeforming arms like chan ho, jorge sosa, oliver perez, el duque, et al. rather than underdeveloped arms?

By The Grinch

February 27, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Barring total catastrophe, the Braves will be so much better than most here (and almost EVERYONE in other places) believe, it’s not even gonna be funny. This team has a gleam of destiny to it…not many superstars but something undefinable like the ‘91 team. No Chop Zone: you guys bother to throw any clorox in the toilets in Shea this offseason or are they still unflushed from last year? :-) Just pokin’ at ya; any fan who loves their team so much they can look at THAT rotation and still be on here talking trash deserves some props.

By woogidy

February 27, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Robert, I think you’re arguing with yourself. It sounds as if you truly don’t believe all the bogus stupid crap you post. There are moments when I am reading a post by you (very rare moments), when it seems you are trying too hard. …and come up with something new dude. You have one thing to say, and that’s it.

This post by Robert,

Bobby Cox blabbidy bloobidy doo doo. I think he gulkinty dulnkity foo foo. Donkey Cox is a flubbery blubbery goo goo. We should get rid of him and muckerdy suckerdy coo coo. This happens every year! Bobby is so jumbily gumbily zoo zoo…

If Robert posted some lyrics it would be this song by John Scatman:

I’m the Scatman

Ski-Bi dibby dib yo da dub dub Yo dab dub dub Ski-Bi dibby dib yo da dub dub Yo dab dub dub

I’m the Scatman

Ski-Bi dibby dib yo da dub dub Yo dab dub dub Ski-Bi dibby dib yo da dub dub Yo dab dub dub

B-B-B-Be Bop a Bodda Bop Bop a Bodda Bop Be Bop a Bodda Bop Bop a Bodda Boop B-B-B-Be Bop a Bodda Bop Bop a Bodda Boop Be Bop a Bodda Bop Bop a Bodda Bop

and so on…

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

but woogiddy, you neglected to mention that he would finish every song with a big ole HeeHaw!

By Metropolitan Man

February 27, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

You can say all you want about the METS pitching staff but there has been nothing but good news for all those castoffs and young guns jockeying for a spot in the rotation or bullpen. No METS fans arent worried, we know Pedro has more heart than Hampton anyway. Seems like Hampton is going to retire. I truly didnt know his injury was so serious until now. You guys should have signed Traschel while you had the chance.

By Yars

February 27, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

DOB……I think it’s great you were once into Depeche Mode. They are still around, you know. Their last album, Playing the Angel is really good. Came out in Oct. ‘05. You must have went to World Violation tour concert back in 1990 in Miami. They at one time, had a pretty big following in south FL. Do you remember the radio station SHE 103.5? They used to play them A LOT back in the day. I graduated from South Broward High in Hollywood, FL back in 93. DOB………….just don’t be ashamed you at one time, dug Mode. They are legends, in my opinion. Grandfathers of electronic music. I will have to check out the Faint. Thank you for mentioning them. As for Nine Inch Nails, you sound like a fan from the Pretty Hate Machine period. I think NIN are still relevant and guess what, Trent Reznor is a huge Mode fan. Coincidence? I wonder what Johnny Cash thought of those bands. He must have been a fan.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

NoChopZone-The Braves pitching staff does look good this year-much better than last year. Don’t you wish the Mets could say the same? Braveheart-Metro Dude says underdeveloped because he’s counting on all those rookie or second year pitchers to perform, because he knows the rest of the veterans are terrible. The only problem is that the young Mets pitchers are from that lousy farm system that hasn’t produced a decent pitcher except Kazmir (gee, what happened to him?) in over ten years.

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this

Can you imagine Skip Caray if the Braves had signed Traschel? Skip has a damn near heart attack anytime he has to announce a game Traschel is pitching. The Human Rain Delay. he says that over and over and over again with such contempt. oh god, skip would end up killing himself if traschel played for the braves. But the best would be Skip calling a braves game on a get away day - last game of a homestand or last game of a roadtrip - oh, for crying out loud, Skip would whip out a rifle and shoot Traschel if he ever pitched for the braves in one of those situations. i have heard skip complain many times about many a player but skip absolutely hates traschel. if traschel delays this game any longer, i am not going to have anytime to hit the martini bar before boarding the plane.

By Lew

February 27, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

MetroDude-How can you seriously be optimistic with ElDuque, Jorge Sosa, Oliver Perez and Chan Ho Park? Dude-you’re an all right guy, but I’ll never take stock tips from you if you think those pitchers are acceptable performers. That’s the biggest collection of trash pitchers I’ve ever seen for a team that actually thinks they can contend.

By Bravo Bubba

February 27, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Good lord Braveheart I think most of us know what get away day means.

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

well, metroman, you had better pray that maine, bannister, pelfrey, and oliver perez step up big time because if you are counting on those reclamation projects, you are in serious trouble

By ssiscribe

February 27, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Bravehart, I damn near spit on my computer reading that. Funniest post in forever. I can just see Skip aiming the gun from the broadcast booth. Priceless! And Scoots, great post earlier. The dog analogy fits perfect, dude!

Lew, I thanked you via e-mail, but a public thanks for the artwork. Man, awesome stuff!

Less than 36 hours until tix go on sale. We’ll be swingin’ in the upper deck at Turner Field come April 6, for sure!

OK, bedtime (gotta sleep now; too many nights up late starting in April). A good night to all, from the southside of the A, down to Lake Buena Vista, up to Vermont and to all ports of call checking in across Braves Nation, the Scribe abides on this fine, fine evening.

And there’s a game tomorrow, folks. Wintertime? See ya bye.

—30—

By The Stranger

February 27, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

O’B, that’s an excellent idea on Hank III singing Are you ready for some baseball every time the blog is opened.

It would also be a nice touch if upon hitting the “Post” button, we could hear an audio clip of Grinch singing This is Our Country.

Something to think about. Appreciate the work you and your staff do to keep the Braves/Man in Black blog fresh, and the listening masses informed.

By The Grinch

February 27, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

MetroMan, I’ll be one of the first to admit I’ve always been a Pedro fan. A guy with a body like his shouldn’t have made it through his first ML season, much less held up this long with this much success. The Dominicans call him “El Duro” (“The Hard One”) for a reason; he does have heart. Unfortunately for you, he has to pitch with his arm, instead, which is done.

DOB, I used to dig NIN myself (and still break out “Pretty Hate Machine” and “Downward Spiral” occasionally for kicks). I agree; Johnny’s version of “Hurt” is unreal. Like I was thinking to myself as I was watching that Highwaymen doc. the other night (which you MUST get, BTW): I loved everything they were singing together but I couldn’t help but think all those songs are still better when Johnny does them alone. He was/is a god, IMO (I’m polytheistic; I can get away with that). Speaking of Depeche Mode; believe it or not Rammstein does a version of “Stripped” that isn’t too bad(one of their few songs in English). A bit more heterosexual than the original. :-)

By Greg in TN

February 27, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

Hey braveheart…

I had to read his quotes twice just to make sure I read it right.

Listening to him on ESPN is just brutal, and it’s a real shame, because I really dearly love listening to Jon Miller call a game.

Folks, on the Hampton front, let’s not get the cart in front of the horse. It’s early, he’s coming off TJ surgery and he’ll need some time to get everything straightened out. There’ll be days like today on the road to recovery.

By The Grinch

February 27, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Lew, apparently you’ve never seen El Dookey’s playoff record. He struck out Honus Wagner three times in one game, I think. And don’t forget Sosa’s fastball can hit the mid-90’s. I won’t mention his brain can’t get out of park. As for Park, the pitcher; he’s got to be great ‘cause didn’t a lot of Asian media come over here to cover him a few years back? He must have a gyroball like that Matsuzaka dude. Either that, or he just sold a lot of t-shirts ‘cause he’s Asian. And don’t forget, Perez one not one, not two, but ALL THREE of his games last year. The ones he actually won, I mean. Don’t worry, MetroMan; beers will be on the Grinch. :-)

By The Grinch

February 27, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

For those here into college basketball and the only conference that matters anywhere, unranked Tennessee has jumped all over #4 Florida in the first period(it was 37-19 a minute ago). As much as I wholly despise Tennessee, the Gators are getting so far ahead of the rest of us in the SEC east at everything we gotta gang up on ‘em. Hope my Dawgs get another shot at them in the tourney.

Stranger, thank you for acknowledging my limited-range but powerful barritone. In case the rest of you aren’t familiar with the song he’s referring to since football season is over, I’ll be happy to post the lyrics…

By DAP

February 27, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanx for the daily blogs. It been nice to have something to read while i should be writing papers or studying. thanx everyone for giving me something to do while i procrastinate!

and ill be skipping class on friday to watch the game.

By braveheart

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

TN Greg:

Robert does not like this about Bobby but i think most of the players do: If you do not like someone or you do not want them to be a member of your team, then you just get rid of them, trade them, cut them, waive them, whatever. but you let them walk away with dignity. even rocker and kenny lofton were allowed to walk away by bobby with dignity. You never hear Bobby utter things like we were just not going to lower our standards for that player. Santo, Hodges, Oliva, and those guys may or may not be HOF worthy but for a Hall of Famer to come out and tell them we are not going to lower our standards for you. That’s gross. Santo, Hodges, Oliva were damn good ballplayers whether they were HOFers or not. You do not disgrace them.

Morgan comes off sounding like the worst of the worst teenage movie cliches of the prom queen, homecoming queen, and head cheerleader all rolled into one conceited cliqueish beeeeooch.

By braveheart

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

TN Greg:

as for miller, has anyone every officially found out whether he is pronouncing Andruw and Betemit’s name right and whether we are a bunch of morons who keep saying their names wrong? i know we all call them one thing but he drives us all absolutely nuts by pronouncing their names how he wants to pronounce them? Other than that, I agree. I like Miller

By No Chop Zone

February 27, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Last year there were No, I repeat NO pitchers on the Mets roster that came from their sytstem that made a significant contribution. LEW, how many games did the Mets win last year? You don’t need pitchers from your system to get to the playoffs. The 2006 Mets are proof of that.

By No Chop Zone

February 27, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

The 1999 and 2000 Mets didn’t have a pitcher that made significant contributions to thier season either. So as you can see LEW there’s not just one formula to making the playoffs.

By Oil Soap

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

DOB,

I remember when the LaRoche/Gonzalez trade was completed you didnt seem too enthusiastic at first. What changed? More faith in Thorman or more appreciation for MG?

By Don

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

I’ll bet Bobby Cox isn’t stupid enough to think “noone” is a word.

By David O'Brien

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

Yes, NIN in Pretty Hate Machine era, though also liked Downward Spiral.

Grinch, saw that DVD of that Highwaymen at Virgin records store the other day, but couldn’t recall whether you recommended it strongly. Now I might have to buy it.

By the way, regarding Pedro _ very funny you “admitted” liking him. You know, it was hard not to like Pedro in his Montreal days. Tough little SOB, as tough as they get. And what a unbelievable arm. He’s a freak born to pitch, right down to his double-jointedness, including those long fingers he could get around the ball and make it do so much.

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

But No Chop, wouldn’t you agree that if your rotation consists of Glavine, chan ho, duque, sosa, and oliver perez, you are in a whole mess of trouble?

I think the only somewhat decent argument you can make is that maine, pelfrey, and bannister are going to step up in a manner consistent with their minor league performance? even then, you are talking about kids. it took maddux, glavine, and smoltz a few years in the bigs before they became the maddux, smoltz, and glavine we all know. so, if you are counting on the kids, you have problems - especially since your kid pitchers are not even really kids - they are all like 25 years old - wouldn’t they have done something noteworthy in the bigs already if they were going to become big time pitchers - especially last year where you guys did have a big lead you had pitchers dropping like flies, and you had alot of offense that could have compensated for any youngster pitching troubles? they were using lima instead of their 3 “kid” pitchers. so, i would not count too much on your kids.

and that takes you back to all you have is a bunch of ida beens, has beens, wouldabeens, never wases pitching for your team

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

but no chop the 1999 and 2000 mets teams had proven quality pitchers like orel, leiter, rick reed, bobby jones, octavio dotel, hampton and even glendon rusch (who was decent then).

the point is not that you need to have good homegrowns because the yankees outside of pettite, mariano, and ramiro mendoza never had quality homegrown pitchers for the last 10 years.

the point is that you need to have quality proven pitchers or pitchers with alot of talent. the mets are sorely lacking in that in their rotation this year

By No Chop Zone

February 27, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Bannister was traded for Burgos this off season. Sure, it’s nice to see young players from your system develope. Oh and by the way, Pelfry and Humber are 23 not 25. But as I stated before, You could win without home grown pitching talent from your system. Speaking of talent, check out the article on Foxsports.com about some up and coming prospects for the Mets.

By No Chop Zone

February 27, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

I was refering to an earlier post by LEW where he stated that the Mets pitching was no good because their farm system hadn’t produced any talent in the recent past.

By Greg in TN

February 27, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

braveheart…

Agreed completely. Lofton did not want to be here, it was painfully obvious from day one. I won’t say he tanked it during the ‘96 season, but I also can’t say he went out and worked his butt off for the team like Grissom did in ‘95.

I think the knock against BC is fair to a point. There are times when he manages by instinct, and when you go to the postseason the number of times we’ve done it, the mistakes are amplified. There are a few folks that take that to the extreme, but hey, it’s a free country and they can think what they want.

BC treats his players like men, and everyone usually responds well to it. There’s been some exceptions over the years and it was quickly and quietly dealt with, but everyone that signs with the Braves talk about their joy and desire in playing for BC and players that have left still talk about the influence he’s had in their game.

There are players on the ballot that deserved induction and I hope they get their due reward. The quotes from Morgan were just unbelievable to me when I read over them, but Morgan likes to ramble.

I believe that Jon Miller goes to the player and asks him about how he pronounces his last name. I had been pronouncing Wilson’s last name like everyone else until listening in on Miller’s broadcast one night and heard his different pronunciation.

By braveheart

February 27, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

i am sorry, no chop. did not realize bannister had been traded. what do you think about that trade? if you listened to wfan last summer, for some reason, joe benigno was just ga-ga over that guy all the time. burgos has a good live arm but he crumbled when they let him close last year. (i picked him up on my fantasy team hoping to get a few cheap saves and it just blew up in my face because he was terrible - so i am not a big fan of burgos). maybe the mets will be able to use him like they did with jorge julio last year and get a decent 2 or 3 months out of him and flip him for a vet pitcher? have not heard much about humber yet? what do you know about him? just looked up his minor league stats on thebaseballcube.com, and it looks like he has been good in the minors. so maybe can get something going over the next few years with humber, pelfrey, and maine - keeping bannister would have been good too - did they get anyone else for bannister besides burgos? as much as bannister was hyped up at times, it seems weird that the best they could get back is burgos.

By Kieran: Long Island Braves Fan

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

RC- Greta point about him being later because he’s a pitcher and there being more players coming from the Dominican, didn’t even think of it. The Aruba Office probably has one Fat lady working at a Desk who gets p** off when she has to do some work, where the DR has got a DMV like atomosphere (Showing how little I know about teh VISA process by assuming there is an actual building)

DOB- HAHA, you gotta think that they’re not in a rush to help Ponson. I love that Story though, it really is one of the best. Dude goes into the Bar and Punches someone out, What’s the one profession you don’t want to get into a barfight with??? How ‘bout a JUDGE!!! I could just see him telling his buddys in the locker room…

“Yea so I was tryin to get to the bar an this A-Hole Judge bumped into me… and then he looked cross eyed at my girl.. SOO I had to punch him out… dude de3served it…”

BTW GO ISLANDERS!!!! I saw a Thrasher fan surface above, good job aquire Tkuchuck, except the Isles did one better grabbign Captain Canada, Ryan Smyth. Ranger fans are already calling him Captain Kangaroo. Went to teh Isles game tonight and a 1st period hat trick for Jason Blake(Who was heavily rumored to be traded this afternoon) what better way to show up trade rumors then shooting a hat trick, as he gave his 1st star interview at the end of the game he was forced to pause caz the Jason Blake Chants at the Nassau Collisuem were so loud. Watch out for them in teh playoffs baby!!!

By The Grinch

February 27, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Pedro’s a genuine hero. Really. I’ll give it up for him now, and never back down from it. However, even the most optimistic fans knew he was a shadow of himself before those injuries last year; IF he comes back next season he’ll be a shadow of a shadow. I’ll still tune in, ‘cause he’s the man, but y’all need to chill with the “Pedro will come back and save us” nonsense. At best he’ll be like Maddux is now, a guy who’s craftiness, experience and guile is so great it overcomes his decrepit body and allows him to be a decent mid-rotation starter for 5-6 innings. Face it. DOB, I remember a baseball reporter talking about the calluses on the TIPS of Pedro’s fingers from the wicked, nonsensical stuff he could do with his pitches. Back in the day. :-) As for the aforementioned DVD, it’s a good documentary, about 40 minutes long(sans commercials) and reverential without being smarmy, but the true value is in the bonus features which are about 30 more minutes of interviews cut to make the doc. fit the time slot. Just the camera rolling. A scene with all them and Gene Autrey(about 100 years old), extra footage of them all individually/together…Shooter, Jesi, June, etc. Good stuff, indeed. Well worth the $16.78 I paid, and then some. You won’t go wrong, I promise. I’ll buy your copy if you don’t like it.

By David O'Brien

February 27, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Oil Soap, I don’t know that anything changed a great deal. It’s more like, the deal’s done, and whether I liked it or not, it ain’t going to do much good to keep harping on it, like some do with certain other deals for certain players who hit .241 with a .306 OBP after he was traded.

No, but really, seeing Thorman hit has given me a bit more faith in him, and actually looking closely at just how formidable this bullpen should/could be, how Gonzalez should slip right into the closer role next year, and how highly regarded Lillibridge is, how he should be at 2B or SS in a year or two…. all that made me think maybe it wasn’t a bad deal for the Braves at all. Maybe quite good. But only time will tell.

That said, gonna miss LaRoche’s defense and, for selfish reasons, gonna miss his quotes and candor.

By Yo

February 28, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

What i’m really excited to see is how Hudson will be in good form during the season.

By Braves fan 202

February 28, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Man i cannot wait til april 2nd, braves are a pic for the world series by some guy on espn, thats cool

By Bob, journalist

February 28, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

David, abandoning the mask, I just want to say thanks … like the streak, we may find ourselves not truly appreciating what we are having the good fortune to witness” … you, my friend, are one of a kind!”

You shouldn’t feel bad about forgetting John’s Birthday … I once forgot my wife’s birthday … and we shared the same day!

By Head Coach

February 28, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

well , right about now there are a few people wishing Horam were still here. Wish I could say I’m suprised about Hampton , but I’m not.

By Don

February 28, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

O’Brien, there’s no reason to harp on that guy who had a .306 OBP with 9 home runs after the Braves traded him since they have now effectively replaced him with a guy who had a .289 OBP with 3 home runs in 225 AB’s last year. According to Stats, Inc., he also lacks range in the field and makes far too many errors on routine plays. Sounds like a helluva player for only $700,000, even if not quite as much of a bargain as Tanyon Sturtze, the 36 year old career 5+ ERA middle reliever coming off shoulder surgery.

Be sure and let us know how Aybar looks at second base if he ever makes it to camp. When does Baez report?

By brent

February 28, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Okay, so I was driving by UGA’s campus today, and got stopped at a light.

some homeless guy comes up and sticks his hand in my window and drops in Hershey’s kisses as I’m closing the window on his fingers.

I’ve always wondered what it would be like to have someone try and rob you while stopped at a light, and now I’ve got a better sense.

A very helpless feeling.

By Mitchie-san

February 28, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Just have enough tie to check in. I am alive and well…just left Singapore a few days ago. I had alot of fun. I am getting excited that its almost baseball time! We might be able to get a feed to catch the game on ESPN..fingers crossed!

By 96,sc

February 28, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

Just scrolling thru the blog as usual (I usually just stop to read DOB or ssiscribe post) and I stopped on Ernesto’s link. I tried but I still couldn’t get it. Said ESPN page not found. Probably my fault. BTW is ssiscribe that “Lang’ fellow. Love the blog and BASEBALL. Go Braves. Will watch Friday for sure.

By gotigers72

February 28, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

Am I ever ready for some baseball. I am disabled and spend most of my day in bed. Obviously I can spend a little time sitting up, but not much. I am a fan of college football and college basketball [March Madness only], but baseball is my obsession. I almost don’t feel as alive when baseball is not being played, and I am passionate about my Braves. I love it when games are on almost every day for 6 months. It makes time pass so much faster with me being in this crappy world of bedridden disease. I have the games to watch [I am lucky and get all 3 stations that televise Braves’ baseball], and then my morning paper to peruse the box scores, standings and other baseball news.

I am optimistic about my Braves this year. I think they got fixed the problems that caused a losing record last year. I think they will start a new streak and will be in the pennant race all year. GO BRAVES!

By The Grinch

February 28, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

Kieren, the Thrash will prevail.

Don, that was harsh.

HC, I’ll remind you of your desire to have HoRam every time Soriano combines with Gonzalez and Wickman to kill the soul of every team we play after the 6th and Cormier or Davies wins enough in the 4th spot to get by ‘till Hampton busts the scar tissue loose and pulls through in the stretch. You guys are like a bunch of old women worrying about this pitching staff; and yes, I’ll put my money where my mouth is. Unless he tries too hard in the first few weeks and tears something(which I doubt), Hampton will win at least 8 games after the all-star break with an ERA under 4. I got a crisp 20 on it. Any BRAVES fan/regular blogger who wants some of that action e-mail me at voton1066@yahoo.com. The rest of you stow your gob.

By The Grinch

February 28, 2007 2:05 AM | Link to this

That’s an ERA under 4 AFTER the all-star break, just to be clear. G’night, all. The betting window will be open ‘till noon tommorrow. Grinch ain’t skeered; neither is Hampton.

By Head Coach

February 28, 2007 2:59 AM | Link to this

Grinch , it’s almighty hard to kill the soul of another team when your playing catch up after the 6th because your starter got shelled like like a peanut. The braves used 12 starters last season. They have plenty of rotational depth , more than enough. Do they have the bare minimum of four quality starters needed ? I don’t know and neither does anybody else. What’s the definition of a quality starter ? A pitcher who can CONSISTENTLY go six innings and give up three earned runs or less. Smoltz , Hudson and James fit that definition. Will Hampton , Davies , Cormier , Villarreal , Harrison or McBride be number four ? I am inclined to believe the answer is yes. But I just don’t know yet.

By Michael

February 28, 2007 3:49 AM | Link to this

DOB

Intersting you talk about the golfing and fishing Braves after practice. Since I’m an avid fisherman…do you know which of the Braves head to the pond??? Thank you…

By ernesto

February 28, 2007 7:16 AM | Link to this

96SC - sorry it must not have copied in its entirety, go up to blazerpunter’s 11:46 a.m. post and get the whole thing (just be sure to eliminate the { } when you cut and paste. Or try this one again

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/spring2007/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=2777169&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos2

hope it works.

By chipdip

February 28, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this

losing laroche and giles is going to bite our a*!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hampton is gonna blow!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By David O'Brien

February 28, 2007 8:22 AM | Link to this

Top o’ the morning to ya.

Michael, here’s a few of the big fishermen: Dewsy (Bobby Dews), McCann, McBride, Langerhans, Chuck James.

James’ wife reeled in an 8-pound pass last week, by he way, from what I’m told.

By ssiscribe

February 28, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this

Top of the mornin’ all, on this, the first gameday of the 2007 journey.

(OK, I’ll admit, it’s not a real “gameday.” But the team will be on the field, playing somebody else, somebody will be keeping score, and the starters will get an AB or two. After five months, we’ll take it.)

Think Matt Harrison is excited to see today arrive? Know the kid has to be pumped. Hope he can channel the nerves, go out there and just pitch. He’ll have the starters behind him in the field; just let the Techsters put it in play. I’ll be trying to keep track of the Braves/Tech and the Cards/Mets (Wainwright’s starting for the defending World Series champs; both games get going at 1:05 p.m. Eastern).

96sc, don’t know who Lang is, but he not be me. Thanks for the props on the posts, though. Always glad to hear feedback, positive and negative.

Grinch, man, what ya think about the Thrash now that the deadline’s passed? I like the moves overall. Gotta go git ‘er done on the ice, though. Should be fun to watch. The special teams are vastly improved, as you said the other day.

GoTigers, we’re thrilled to have you here with us. Best of luck with everything. Glad this grand old game and the ballclub from the ATL gives you some joy. Chime in with us anytime.

Less than 25 hours until individual tix go on sale. Ready, set, click!

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By David O'Brien

February 28, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this

Welcome back, Don. I thought if I dropped that big piece of bait in the water, you’d return. Just having fun, man. No biggie.

Actually, I doubt either one of those guys (betemit or aybar) is going to be much of a factor _ that is, unless Chipper plays 110 games again, in which case Aybar will be a factor one way or the other.

But come on, you can’t seriously think Wilson performed well with the Dodgers simply because he hit 9 homers, right? I’m just asking. Please don’t get all hysterical and start asking me about Baez. Everyone knew from the day they got him, and Schuerholz said as much at the time, that they got Baez for last year, with no expectations of re-signing him, though they said they’d evaluate that after season like everyone else.

Given what Baez got on the open market, uh, would YOU have re-signed him? Comical, what he got from Orioles.

By DADShouse

February 28, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

Only 6 more months until football season! Atlanta fans will wheeze, jabber and sleep their way through baseball season, just like they do every year. Wanna see a packed house? Come to Knoxville, Athens, Auburn, Gainesville or Columbia on a Saturday afternoon. LIVE FOOTBALL! EAT FOOTBALL! SCREAM FOOTBALL!

By bravesfan16

February 28, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

Check out the new Mic Harrison and the High Score album. Great stuff from the ex-VRoy. Maybe better than Scott Miller’s Citation last year.

Enjoy!

By knowitall

February 28, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

For those of you wondering about the breakout year of Gary Matthews Jr. last year, he has been named in a steriod investgation. Here’s the story: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070228/aponspot/steroidraid_9

By David O'Brien

February 28, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

DADShouse, just in case you missed it, they don’t have to wait until football anymore for packed houses at Gainesville. National title, sellouts every game. And they had 24,000 at Knoxville last night, where they’re unbeaten this season. It ain’t the 90s anymore, and the SEC has long since joined the ranks of great basketball conferences. Figured out you can play both.

By Glass Half Full

February 28, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Any PS2 gamers out there: Kelly Johnson is not in the new MLB 07 the Show for reasons unknown (he was in last year’s version). Your 2nd base options on the big league roster are Prado and Orr; Craig Wilson is listed as a free agent, but can be signed inexpensively. Just an FYI.

By Don

February 28, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

No, I don’t think Betemit was very good with the Dodgers although his power numbers were decent. He might not, or let’s say probably not, ever be good enough to be a big league starter. But he capably backed up 3 positions: third, short and second. There’s value to having one guy who can do that, particularly when he doesn’t cost much. After the trade, it took two roster spots, Aybar and Pena, to back up those 3 positions. Obviously a second guy would have been required when Chipper went down and Betemit took his spot, but not after Chipper back. So in tight games we were sometimes treated to the spectacle of Tony Pena as a pinch hitter.

When you carry 12 pitchers, roster spots for position players are valuable, are they not?

What we’ve seen to this point suggests Aybar can play only one position in the field. Given the gaping hole the Braves have at second, if Aybar could play it he’d be getting a legitimate shot at the job. Since Aybar can only play a corner infield position, his lack of power makes him at best a marginal major league player.

Since Aybar can’t back up 3 infield positions, JS made the deal for Chris Woodward. And whatever you think of Betemit, I hope you’re not going to say with a straight face that you think Woodward is a better player.

And yes, most of us knew Baez was a rental. Both his pitching motion and his sometimes inability to find the strike zone gave me horrific flashbacks to Russ Ortiz as a #1 starter. Thank God JS wasn’t nuts enough to give him a multiyear deal, particularly after he decided to shut it down in the last couple of weeks in the season. But there were a large number here who assumed Baez would be resigned.

I mostly like what Schuerholz did this winter given the constraints he’s operating under, but I don’t like the deals for the two stiffs Woodward and Sturtze.

By Glass Half Full

February 28, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

TJ Bohn is on the Richmond roster.

By RC

February 28, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Don, I agree on your comment on the deals for Woodward and Sturtze. Woodward makes a little sense in that we he can be a super-util backup, but the Sturtze deal seemed like a desperation signing to me. Like we were afraid we wouldn’t be able to get the pen guys we needed, but had to just sign SOMEBODY. On a team with the limited financial resources we have, the money we spent on Sturtze could be better used elsewhere (or saved for the future).

By Mac

February 28, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Dave, You’re a big music fan, have you listened to the Christina Aguilera album “Back to the Basics”? If not you might want to give it a listen. Great stuff! Not exactly what you’d expect from a Christina Aguilera.

By Lew

February 28, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

DOB-The SEC finally got big time? I remember seeing Dominique, Vern Flemming and James Banks when I was at UGA in the 80’s. What about Charles Barkely and Auburn? Or Kentucky, who has been a national powerhouse for years (maybe not so much recently). SEC basketball has been around for years. Maybe not as big time as at KU, but then again there’s nothing else in Kansas but BBQ and tornadoes.

By Salty

February 28, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Lew Don’t forget the wheat in Kansas…miles and miles of wheat!
:-)

By knowitall

February 28, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

I’ll try that link again http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070228/aponspot/steroidraid_9

By dcarp23

February 28, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

What time is the game today? 1:05?

By Matthew

February 28, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Lew:

You cannot forget Arkansas. Since they came into the SEC in 1991-1992, they are one of only three SEC teams to win a national championship (FLA and KY are the others). Arkansas is still, even after their recent struggles, the 8th best college team in history, according to a recent Sporting News article. Joe Johnson, Corliss Williamson, Ronnie Brewer, etc. are in the NBA now because of a great UA basketball program. I only went back to 1991 since that’s when they entered the SEC, but they were a FORCE in the old Southwest Conference too.

Sorry to slam you. I had to defend my HOGS!!

By braveheart

February 28, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

aybar, minors: .265; .342; .403 aybar, majors: .292; .387; .416

betemit, minors: .279; .338; .426 betemit, majors: .271; .332; .433

They do not look like much different players except that aybar has a higher OBP in the majors. Maybe he is making improvement and was a late bloomer. But more likely he will slip back down to somewhere around where his minor league averages were.

So, then what was the point of trading Betemit? Especially since it has confused and angered lots of fans. (well, at least me). He may have never been more than a mediocre player and a super utility man but I personally think he would have been our version of Terry Pendleton for the next few years if he got to play enough.

The Betemit trade kind of goes to Robert’s point in his never ending rants about Bobby Cox. Although I often laud Cox for treating his players like men with dignity and for not disgracing his players when they leave, we are often left wondering what the real deal was. Was he a cancer in the clubhouse, did he party too much, what was the deal? To trade one of your homegrowns who was playing multiple positions well for a prospect another team found disappointing was just puzzling. Something else must have been going on.

I still have not heard a really adequate explanation from anyone justifying the very puzzling trade.

By Salty

February 28, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Matthew…going back further…Moncrief? Good player. He was a Hog, right? Williamson…scary; thought he’d have been better in the pros.

Full disclosure re: Kansas and wheat. As we are quite familiar, there are entire counties in GA and SC swallowed up by Kudzu! At least you can do something with wheat!

By Lew

February 28, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Matthew-Didn’t intentionally delete Arkansas. The point was that the SEC is not someone’s illegitimate stepchild when it comes to hoops. It’s just that opposed to Kansas, we have football, too. Good football that is. Baseball, too. Heh, Heh.

By Shaun

February 28, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Don,

Aybar is better than Betemit. Sure he’s not a star, but has shown better plate discipline, more speed, more range and more versatility than Betemit throughout their pro careers (although Betemit probably has better hands and a better arm).

Aybar can play both second and third and could probably play short if he had to. Plus he is younger than Betemit.

The reason Pena and Aybar were on the team after the Betemit trade was because Giles was hurt.

As far as Woodward, he’s likely to replace Pete Orr, from what it looks like to me. Neither are good players but Woodward is a little better than Orr, particularly on defense.

I can understand the argument that none of the infield moves helps the Braves but I don’t see how they hurt the Braves.

The Sturtze signing was kind of strange, I admit, for a team trying to improve its pitching staff. Apparently the scouts saw something they liked. Or maybe Schuerholz was just looking for a veteran who could eat innings.

By Lew

February 28, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Salty-Don’t kid yourself. Kudzu is perfectly acceptable as a salad green. It sure took care of the erosion problems it was imported to control. Maybe if Kansas and Oklahoma had planted it, the dust bowl would not have happened. Don’t mess with our Kudzu, Dude. It will get you in the middle of the night if you’re not careful, and seal you in your house. Come to think of it, Rick Price of the Georgia Satellites used to play in a band called Kudzu decades ago. How’s that for a Journalistic and musical transition, Scribe?

By Renegator

February 28, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Go Gators! Ugly end to the season though. Here’s to better luck in the tournament

By Tanyon Sturtze

February 28, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Why did they sign me? I mean seriously, even I don’t know. Anyone got change for a million dollar bill?

By knowitall

February 28, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Oh forget it. The story is on Yahoo sports.

By RC

February 28, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Braveheart:

You are right in that Aybar and Betemit are very similar players. The difference is that Aybar is 3 years younger, and I believe has 3 years until he is arbitration eligible. So the Braves basically viewed the move as getting a younger, cheaper version of the same player they gave up. Makes sense to me.

By Don

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

Shaun, thanks for clearing it up that Aybar is better than Betemit. Did you get that from your Sabermetrics website?

If Aybar could play second, don’t you think the Braves would be giving him a real shot at the job instead of hoping that a converted outfielder with what, 250 relatively undistinguished major league ABs (and coming off elbow surgery) is going to do the job? I guess an alleged “super utility” player is more valuable than an everyday second baseman.

If Aybar can play second (which you have no clue about) and “probably” fill in at short (nonsense), what’s the logic behind signing Chris Woodward?

By Shaun

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

braveheart,

Betemit was traded mostly because he’s due for a raise soon and the Braves saw an opportunity to get a similar player who is younger and cheaper. Plus that player has shown better strikezone judgment, more speed and better range defensively.

Plus the Braves have Chipper and Betemit doesn’t have the range to play secondbase everyday in the bigs.

I’m not sure what you mean that Aybar was a late bloomer. He’s still only 24-years-old, still at least a couple of years away from what should be his peak seasons.

Trade wasn’t all that puzzling to me. They trade a quality backup, for a similar yet younger, cheaper quality backup and a guy that could have potentially improved the bullpen (which desperately needed improvement). True, Baez wasn’t a certainty to make an impact (and he really didn’t make much of one) but this is a trade that could have paid off big, and wasn’t a big risk if it didn’t.

By sri

February 28, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

maybe Betemit was getting tired of being stuck as a backup to Chipper and wanted a chance to start elsewhere and requested a trade.. and RC has a valid point.. Aybar is a cheaper version of Betemit.. and the Sturtze signing makes no sense to me either!!!!! DOB any comments on that?

By Don

February 28, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

By the way, since when did OBP become the measure of productivity for a hitter? Did power become meaningless, or it is a case of selectively using whatever stat is convenient to justify an assertion?

By Shaun

February 28, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Don,

Kelly Johnson has much better offensive potential than Aybar. And I never said Aybar was worthy of a regular 2B job.

And Kelly Johnson started his pro career as an infielder; actually he was more out-of-position as an outfielder.

Aybar is more of a thirdbase/secondbase backup. From everything I’ve read, Woodward is a great defensive backup and a natural shortstop.

Also, maybe Aybar’s not better than Betemit, but he’s at least as good. Better plate discipline/strikezone judgment, faster, more range. Plus he’s younger and cheaper.

Betemit’s probably going to make at least a million bucks in arbitration. Why not replace him with a player of similar value for well under that?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

February 28, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

OBP could be very meaningful if the player were a leadoff hitter with speed. Often that is the same as a double.

By Shaun

February 28, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Don,

Well no one stat can really tell you how productive a player is but OBP is the most important single offensive stat because it tells you how good a hitter is at avoiding outs.

But power is very important. Speed is helpful. And if we are talking overall value, you of course have to throw in defense and versatility.

When looking at the total package and take into account age and salary, I think we can logically conclude Aybar is likely to be at least just as valuable as Betemit over the next few seasons.

By Bob, journalist

February 28, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Baseball, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways … I mean days … until opening day!

Nice thing about today is that I have to win … at least both of my teams can’t lose!

It wasn’t that long ago when a ball player had to be good to play professionally at any level … better that most to make it to Double A … and among the best to play everyday in the major leagues.

It’s obvious that times have changed … today, so many major leaguers are described as being no good but better than others … no wonder it’s best not to compare players of different eras … or eras of different players for that matter.

I wish I knew why these kids are so concerned about going to some dance … maybe if they spent more time learning how to play ball and less time learning the two-step …

Play Ball!

By Don

February 28, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

That’s progress Shaun, you’ve gone from stating your opinion as fact to “I think we can logically conclude”. Congratulations. Next you can take it to “I think I can logically conclude” as you don’t speak for anybody else that I’m aware of. You certainly don’t speak for me.

And no, OBP isn’t the most important single offensive stat unless you want to assert that a walk is as good as a home run since both avoid outs. OPS is more important than OBP since it incorporates OBP and also accounts for power.

By David O'Brien

February 28, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG up, folks.

Don, OBP certainly isn’t THE measure, but it’s one of them and it’s become viewed as increasigly important in recent years by many teams. I like OPS, but I know Shaun prefers OBP.

While power is and will always be very important, you’re talking about a hitter who has 22 homers in 669 career at-bats, not exactly a big power hitter.

He had 18 homers (very solid, for sure) in only 373 at-bats last season, but with 102 strikeouts, a .263 average and .326 OBP. Hey, if those stats do it for you, fine. I’m not saying they’re terrible, but I sure wouldn’t get excited about them.

Here’s the one that’s pretty jarring, for me: Against lefties, the switch-hitter batted .189 (14-for-74) with four extra-base hits, six walks, 28 strikeouts and a .574 OPS. Would you agree that’s awful?

But again, I don’t want to spend the day arguing with you about a relatively minor trade for what I think will be two part-time players. And remember, Betemit is 26 years old, more than 2-1/2 years older than Aybar.

By Shaun

February 28, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Gil in Mechanicsville,

OBP is meaningful mostly because it tells us how good a player is at avoiding outs. It’s what many people once thought batting average was but it’s better because it takes into account every way of making and avoiding an out (walks, HBP, hits).

And history has shown us that the teams that are best at avoiding outs are the teams that score the most runs—i.e., there is an extremely high correlation between OBP and run scoring, a higher correlation with run scoring than any other rate or percentage stat such as batting average.

By MGL

February 28, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why some people are still bemoaning the Betemit trade. He looked fairly decent at third, and could hit for a little more power than Aybar, but he was definitely not a super-sub. He is not quick enough in his reaction times to play middle infield. The few times I saw him at second, he looked lost. In his 92 innings at SS, he had 5 errors - good grief! His .241 Avg at LA does not look like super star stuff. Let him go, I agree with the younger, quicker, less expensive Aybar.

By Don

February 28, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Dave, I’ll give an opinion on Betemit’s stats against lefties as soon as you address my issue that Betemit adequately backed up 3 infield positions when he was with the Braves and based on all evidence to this point Aybar is capable of backing up only one. The Braves were out of the playoff hunt last year for at least the last week or ten days and had a lame duck second baseman, yet they didn’t even look at Aybar at second. And they don’t appear to be giving him a legitimate shot at second this spring even though he is probably at least as productive offensively as the converted outfielder they’re trying to hand the job to. The only conclusion I can draw from that is that Aybar can’t play second, assertions of people like Shaun who have never seen him take a ground ball at second notwithstanding. The idea that Aybar is more valuable sitting on the bench in case Chipper gets hurt rather than playing second and sliding over to third if Chipper gets hurt doesn’t make much sense.

And while Shaun is entitled to his opinion (whether those of us who sometimes disagree with it are entitled to ours or not) on OBP, I can’t figure out how OPS can’t be better than OBP when OPS incorporates OBP and incorporates a measure of power, which OBP doesn’t account for. If OBP is the key hitting stat then Francouer belongs in the minors.

I’m not interested in endlessly arguing the relatively minor trade either. I don’t think one of the main points I made about it then or now (the value of freeing up a spot on the 25 man roster by backing up 3 positions versus 1) were ever honestly addressed or debated. I got what I get this time, you ignoring whatever question I asked, selective stats to show how sorry Betemit really was, etc. me to respond to your questions. But I’m not the one who brought it up this time as I’m sure you recall.

But to end with something we all can hopefully agree on, Robert is an idiot.

By Anonymous

February 28, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Finally baseball is back and the Braves are like sharks, they can smell and taste the run of yet another division championship and it is very possible for the World Series

By dgd

February 28, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

DOB—Are the Braves upset with Aybar about the Visa situation? Isn’t that something that he should have taken care of weeks ago instead of letting it cut into spring training? Who does he think he is, Manny? Doesn’t Aybar have something to prove—there are several others vying for that utility spot (hustling Pete Orr for one). I wouldn’t think he’s a lock—particularly if he has options left…..

By Thomas

February 28, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Hello everybody,

I’m been reading braves articles lately, and have been shocked how Bobby is complicating himself. There is no need to bench Diaz nor Craig Wilson, he can platoon two positions: 1st Baste Scott Thorman bats from the left side, and craig wilson can play 1st base and hits from the right side. Am I not being obvious, why hasnt Thorman, been treated like Laroche was treated at the start of the season. Diaz has come to this spring determine to make the lineup, and from what he showed last year I would not doubt platooning him with Ryan Lagerthans. Yea his fielding isnt that great, but he can work on it, he is young he still can improve. 1B Scott Thorman/Craig Wilson, LF Ryan Langerthans/Matt Diaz. I just dont understand, why they havnt brought it up, but when GM(JS) got WilsonI thought that was the plan.

By Michael

March 1, 2007 5:41 AM | Link to this

“DOB”

Thanks for the info Dave about the fishermen on the team. You know it’s bad when James’ wife catches a bass bigger than I’ve ever caught in my life and I’m been fishing seriously for 20 years or more.