Braves

By ssiscribe

March 1, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

DOB: Not to fan the flames of garbage, but are you referring to Steve Phillips, the former Met GM? I think I mentioned this last week in a blog, but the boys at 680 The Fan played a clip from Phillips talking about the D’Rays sending Baldelli to the Fish for D-Train, then turning around and sending Jorge Cantu to Atlanta for Chuck James.

Totally, totally ridicilous. I know I addressed it now because I remember looking up Cantu’s stats. Breakout year in 2005 followed by a mediocre year last season.

No way you give up a kid who won 11 games in four months, a lefty with grit and great movement, for Jorge Cantu. No freakin way.

Got my tix for opening day, and a few other games. Once the wife finds out, this Scribe may be sleeping in the newsroom for a night or two.

Back to it. Selah and take care in the bad, bad weather rolling through the A this afternoon.

Peace. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Charlie Hatton

March 1, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

It’s interesting that the ‘catcher assignment’ to a particular starter has turned into an annual thing. I always assumed it started because Maddux didn’t like throwing to Javy Lopez. But it’s a nice way to keep the regular catcher rested, and keep the game-calling consistent for each pitcher.

I would guess Pena’s probably worked with more of the younger kids in Richmond and earlier, so it seems a good bet that he’d be assigned to the 5th starter, whoever it turns out to be. Though it’d be interesting if Villarreal ends up spot-starting — we might see Pena catching for James instead, at least part-time.

And didn’t Pittsburgh try to bring James’ name into the LaRoche/Gonzalez deal, only to be told he was pretty much untouchable? Sounds like your TV guy is flinging random rumors to see if he can get one to stick.

Charlie / Bugs & Cranks

By futurebravesgm2413

March 1, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

What dumb guy said that. If it is Steve Phillips this man has got to have lost all his credibility. But I am not sure how much that is after seeing how he chased down Barry Bonds at the winer meetings.

By braves fan

March 1, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

He’s Chuck James biiitch!!!! Why anyone would think the Braves would trade him for anything is ridiculous. The Braves have a 40 year old ace, a high priced guy who has disappointed so far, a really good 35 year old who is coming off tommy john surgery (and knee surgery) and is a bit timid at this point if you ask me, and an unproven kid coming off a groin tear and a terrible season, filling the other 4 spots in the rotation. Exactly why would the Braves want to trade the one good young inexpensive talent they have to fill a 2B spot? Last time I checked you don’t have to have 6, 7, or 8 all-star caliber position players to win the World Series. I think the Braves are set with talent at SS, 3B, C, CF & RF and have very good platoon options in LF and 1B and a kid who’s shown some promise as a hitter in Kelly Johnson. There is not a team in the majors who isn’t going into the season with 3 questionable spots in their lineup or if they don’t they have rotation issues (a la the Mets). So I feel okay with the players the Braves have to fill the spots in LF, 1B, and 2B. Chuck James being traded for a 2B? That must be the biggest joke of the year, except maybe Bonds breaking the HR record.

By Greg in TN

March 1, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Greetins’ friends and neighbors,

Soggy, soggy day in the south. I can’t say that I would expect anything from Smoltzie other than what he said. That is why is is beloved amongst me and my fellow Braves faithful.

I caught some of the discussion toward the tail end of the last blog in terms of the Veterans Committee vote, or non-vote depending on how you look at it. Morgan’s quote indicates to me that he’s trying to have it both ways. No can do Joe, no can do. You can’t take a swipe at those for criticizing you for not electing anyone, then say something like you can’t evaluate the folks on one of the ballots you are supposed to consider (specifically he was referring to the composite ballot of executives, umpires and the others).

In looking through the ‘Truths and Rumors’ section of SI, I found a very amusing dispatch on Mets savior Oliver Perez. Seems that during warmup yesterday, an errant slider from his hand hit an SI photographer taking photos from the backstop. Here’s a link to their story:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/baseball/mlb/02/28/tigers.mets.ap/index.html

Here’s hoping that Glavine doesn’t take a page from “Nuke” LaLoosh in Bull Durham and hit a mascot with a pitch in Port St. Lucie today.

By TN-MAN

March 1, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Davies gets Furcal and Pierre to ground out in the 1st, Kemp up.

By Mets Stink

March 1, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is a breath of fresh air compared to most other players. Schilling, like most others, is too full of himself. He’s not much more than a mediocre pitcher these days. With these crazy contracts guys are signing, 13 mil for a mediocre pitcher isn’t that bad. That really shows what a bargain price Smoltz is. The Braves need to go ahead and give him a 2 year extension now.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Anybody seen or heard from DonC yet on the blog? Sounded like he had a helluva night/morning….

That was a nine-pitch first inning for Davies, and Kelly Johnson just led off bottom first with a single. But I guess you guys are getting play-by-play online anyway, huh? So I should stop?

Betemit is at third and batting fifth for Los Dodgers, Furcal leading off, of course. It’s their opener, too.

By braves fan

March 1, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

And another thing…..remember Mark Lemke? He wasn’t a great offensive talent (except in October) and the Braves did just fine with him manning 2B. I think people have gotten their perspective out of whack because Marcus Giles was perceived to be a big offensive talent. His offense was not a must have for the Braves to win. He just needed to be moved down so he wasn’t making outs in the leadoff spot. But the Braves will be just fine even if Kelly Johnson gets beat out by Prado. Prado would provide excellent defense, which is way more important to a team needing to support their pitching staff. No 2B will create enough runs (except Rogers Hornsby) to offset the loss of the good work Chuck James would do on the mound.

By dcarp23

March 1, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

I thought you could listen to the spring training games for free. Am I completely wrong?

By Alex

March 1, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

I like the idea for brayan getting some at bats 1 out of every 5 games, giving McCann some much needed rest. Has Aybar reported to camp yet? and will the game be canceled today, I heard the weather is going to be pretty bad?

By JP

March 1, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

So how or where do I go to listen to the Braves online Today?

By Brad in MT

March 1, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Enough said about Steve Phillips, the guy has lot all credibility and he’s one of the few ESPN baseball guys I don’t care for. I think that having Pena play every fifth day will be good for him, he probably needs to get some consistent at bats and hopefully it keeps McCann rested. All I can say is that its great to have baseball back and its nice to be able to listen to Pete doing the spring games. Thanks for the daily blogs DOB!

By MGL

March 1, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Please keep up the updates.

By TennesseePaul

March 1, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Needs at 2B so we trade our #3 starter. Sounds reasonable. I think we have needs in LF, let’s ship Smoltz off to fix it. And that defense at first has a question mark, maybe we can get someone for Hudson and Wickman. Not going to happen and should never happen. Not until we have so much depth in pitching, we don’t know what to do. And at that point, I think we could trade some of the lesser commodities to fulfill our needs. Besides, with the Praise heeped on Escobar, I’d imagine we’d try him at 2B or trade him, before we’d ship Chuck James off.

I love Smoltz. That guy is just a solid man. I look forward to seeing him pitch in Atlanta next season and hopefully a few more after that. He’s good. And this team now has the pen to back him. All he needs to due is keep pitching like he has been these past, ooohhh 19 years, and he could easily have 20+ wins this season. I’d like to see him put up 25 wins for the next 4 years. Sheer domination. He can be Mr Game Over, before the game has even started. No need to wait till the ninth.

GO BRAVES

By TN-MAN

March 1, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

No DOB not getting play-by-play just read on another site. Anywhere you can get it besides gameday? Thanks for the updates.

By The Stranger

March 1, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Steve Phillips with the inside scoop on the big Chuck James trade? Well, it is the Disney Channel, The Happiest Chan…

Ah, Big River, one of my favorites.

Going to see one of my favorite Texans tonight: Robert Earl Keen. Maybe I can encourage him to sing a Cash tune in honor of the legend’s 75th anniversary.

By eware

March 1, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Please keep it coming for us poor folks at the office, DOB. Thanks!

By Porkins

March 1, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Has anyone played MLB 2K7 yet? Got it for the 360 - amazing game. I traded LaRoche and Langerhans for Nomar. What can I say?

By The Stranger

March 1, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Don’t toy with us O’B — we need those updates. We’re junkies, man.

By Rob

March 1, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

DOB, Keep up the play by play please.

By kdbanks

March 1, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

DOB -

If you see Skip Carey, will you ask him to explain the infield fly rule? He loves that.

Thanks

By Gene

March 1, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

I remember a few years ago when athletes were hanging out with strippers at the Gold Club, or some similar dump. The day that news came out, Smoltzie was visiting the VA Hospital. I hope he goes into announcing when he finishes baseball and stays around Atlanta.

By alex

March 1, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Keep us updated DOB.

By Patrick

March 1, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

No DOB,

Please keep providing play-by-play, can’t get it anywhere else!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

trade chuck-y james? oh, the humanity! what would bobbycox call jorge cantu? jorg-y could be construed as vulgar, while cant-y sounds negative. and who would then pitch left-handed? hampton could get hurt. can we teach a pitcher to switch hands? does steve phillips suffer from head trauma? perhaps a newyawker hit him in the head with batteries…

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I responded to you at the end of the previous Blog.

David, I know that I should have said hi to DonC in the wee hours but the real reason that I was up was a storm and didn’t think to so do since he had been having a one-way conversation with you over a long period of time.

I’m not even sure that he was aware that I was there though one would so assume. Sincerely hope he’s doing okay.

By beachcomber

March 1, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

DOB - Listening to the game on line - pleasantly surprised to hear Mark Lemke working with Pete. Will the Lemmer have an expanded role this year?

By glorydays

March 1, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

DO WE HAVE ANY POSTERS INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF A FANTASY LEAGUE, COULD BE FUN TO PUT THE TWO TOGETHER

By KC

March 1, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

DOB: “Someone told me they saw a former GM turned TV guy saying that the Braves were so concerned about 2B Kelly Johnson that they are considering trading Chuck James for a second baseman.”

Gee… with those reasoning skills, it’s difficult to understand why he’s a GM turned TV guy. I’m sure there are many teams who would like to hire a GM who thinks such a deal makes sense on any level.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Impressive showing for Kyle Davies _ two perfect innings with a strikeout, 17 pitches/11 strikes. They stayed with plan to bring him out after two innings, only want their starters to go two in first starts….

By comparison, Randy Wolf needed 37 pitches for two innings….

Kelly Johnson handled four defensive chances (two groundouts, two popups) in two innings without a hitch, and had a single up the middle and lined an opp-field sac fly to left-center in two plate appearances before coming out of the game.

Subs in third: Lillibridge at SS, Orr at 2B, Cormier pitching…

Francoeur had seen and swung at 3 pitches in 3 at-bats this spring (including Tech) before taking a strike to start his third inning AB, then hitting a jam single up middle….

Thorman just hustled to beat out a would-be double play grounder, got an RBI out of it for 2-0 lead

By RC

March 1, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

It’s no wonder Steve Phillips thinks we should trade Chuck James….it’s those great insights that led him to pull of the deals for Mo Vaughn and Robbie Alomar. There is a reason he works for ESPN now, and it falls under the “Those that can, do….” logic.

By Coloradobravesfan

March 1, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

I think Jorge Sosa gave up 2 Home runs in one inning for the mets against the cards…

By 3trees

March 1, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Oh, man, Big River one of my all-time favs. We do it almost every time we play out. Hate to admit, but up until about 10 years ago I never knew JC wrote much (forehead slap emoticon here)! That and “Drive On” from the 1st AR are just killin’ Cash penned tunes (among many). Oh, really dug the lyrics to the Olney tune you had up yesterday.

Very interested in how Davies does today. Keep ‘em coming! If he’d come along and steady up the bottom of the rotation, that would sure help with Hampton’s re-hab.

By Lew

March 1, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Happy Baseball, y’all-Just got back from the foot doctor. Toes have not been trifled with. What happened to DonC? Was he involved in tornadoes or something? Hope not. Now Bob-I’m not putting words in your mouth-I wouldn’t do that. However, you did basically call me an angry person. Not so!!!I just learned a long, long time ago not to put up with crap from others. They tend to keep giving it to you when you let them. I’m really sorry if Stinky needs friends-SJA, too. Neither one of them ever went out of their way to be nice to me and just because they claim to have seen the light, I view that as a jailhouse conversion to Christianity or whatever-I just don’t trust it. Be that as it may. I’m not angry with either one. If truth be told, I feel kind of sorry for The Odiferous One. He certainly is an intelligent, well read person. He has much more potential to be a good person than he ever showed on this blog. I don’t hate him or SJA-I just don’t miss them, either. If this makes you a nicer person than me and more filled with the milk of human kindness, then so be it-I do not dispute this. I certainly never claimed to be a paragon of virtue-just a wise mouthed SOB with a modicum of artistic talent. Wish I could get you opening day tickets. If I could, I’d do it and then ask you to find me some for the Braves/Red Sox series in Boston. Can’t find them, either. Peace. The Bionic Artist shall abide for a while and go listen to Dylan’s John Wesley Harding. I just got a remastered copy the other day. I Dreamed I saw St. Augustine. Really.

By PABravefan

March 1, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

That is ridiculous! We were not willing to include C James in a trade to get Rocco, so why in the hell would we include him for a slightly better than average 2B? Phillips is a MORON who still thinks like a MET!! Maybe he would make that trade and that is why he is no longer a GM, and why the Mets couldn’t smell the Braves all of those years!! GO BRAVES!!

By TennesseePaul

March 1, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Thorman just hustled to beat out a would-be double play grounder, got an RBI out of it for 2-0 lead

I already like this guy. I like his shortname, Thor. I like his game. I like the hustle. I can’t wait to see him in the regular season.

By Thrillhouse44

March 1, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Beachcomber, where did you find the game online? Thanks.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

well, that was not jimmy smith posting at 1:39 so there is another impostor among us - but not ugly like the last one. now, baseball … furcal, betemit, and others from the braves organization - this journalist wishes them well until they play the braves. dodgers baseball used to be the road map for how to play national league baseball. the dodgers used to come to atlanta and inflict much damage. but the worm turns. the worm always turns. a blue worm turns and takes things with it.

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 1, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

DOB - where would i get play-by-play online? i’d sure like to know. thanks

By alex

March 1, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

I think Davies is going to be a stud this year. Maybe this outing will boost what little confidence problems he had last year. Thanks for the updates DOB. Go BRAVES

By Shaun

March 1, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Bob, journalist,

Read your response.

I don’t see how it lowers standards or does a disservice to anyone to let true historians vote.

True, past voters didn’t think people like Marty Marion were good enough then, but wouldn’t you agree that our knowledge of the game (and human knowledge in general) has increased over time? If so, don’t you think we have more knowledge now as to what a HOFer is than we did 20, 30, 40 years ago?

And I don’t see how it does a disservice to Eddie Matthews or Mike Schmidt to allow a select group of historians in the voting process and if they were to help select Ron Santo for enshrinement.

I don’t see how it lowers the standards if certain players who are better by basically any objective measure than those already enshrined (such as Santo or Blyleven) are elected.

Under your rationale, we could never say Babe Ruth or Honus Wagner were great players because we never saw them play. I just don’t think we should go as far as saying you aren’t qualified to define greatness unless you see greatness. I think that’s dangerous territory in which to tread.

I also think it’s dangerous to say if Player x wasn’t voted in in 1977, he isn’t good enough to be voted in in 2007. What if some new, overwhelming evidence is found that says Player x should be in the Hall?

By John Adcox

March 1, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

I’m listening to Pete and Mark Lemke call the game on the MLB Web cast… I just bought my opening day tickets… and I dusted off my traditional March read, Thomas Boswell’s lovely, poetic collection “Why Time Begins On Opening Day.” I feel like Noah seeing the rainbow after all the rain.

Man, the Braves are hustling out a LOT of weak, infield “hits” today. That’s a good sign. While Betemit has made two errors. Ouch.

March is going to be a long, long month. I am ready now. Right now. This minute.

By braveheart

March 1, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

that smoltz fella, i believe he is kind of shy.

i love that he took it to schilling. schilling is the most annoying blowhard.

bloody sock glory? did you perhaps mean the ketchup sock glory from the blowhard drama queen?

lay off of johnson. you got the whole month of march to figure out if he has the goods. even then, i still think the braves are going to throw him out there at the start of the season. ride the ups and downs with him. that is the fun of rookies and/or young up and comers. the one thing you know he has is a good eye and patience. those are two traits that usually are not prone to inconsistencies. so he will draw walks and deep counts even if playing badly or just inconsistently in other areas. let him ride it out.

By Head Coach

March 1, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

The only thing that’s free is the air you breathe and its getting more polluted by the day. Whats with the trade rumors swirling around Escobar ? I know teams are inquiring about him. The Braves will take into consideration the value of a five tool talent with a great arm who can switch to 3B or the outfield. My logical assumption would be that the Braves would think about trading him for another pitcher that could be plugged into the rotation , if needed.

By braveheart

March 1, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

shaun, back to your conversation from this morning, don’t you think though that joe morgan and other HOFers are most likely the best judges of their own contemporaries? you can study all the stats and history you want, but no baseball historian or sabermetrician is going to know what it was like to stand 60 feet away from bert blyleven looking to get a hit or what it was like to pitch to santo or jim rice or know what it was like to smack a line down third base and have santo steal a hit from you.

i think it is kind of like this blog. someday, it may come time for HOF inductions in this blog for the best bloggers. who would be the best judges of which bloggers should get in? DOB should have first call and then the fellow bloggers should have a huge voice as well. then the people who read regularly but do not ever or rarely ever post (essentially fans of the blog but not blog players), should have a voice as well after DOB and the fellow bloggers have their voices heard. if there were media covering this blog, then their voices should be heard. the last voice that should be heard is some historian 50 or 100 years from now.

Can you imagine the historian reading over these blogs 50 to 100 years from now and saying well according to the frequency of posts, frequency of responses to his posts, length of posts, the amount of posts over the span of a certain number of years, the historical and cultural significance of his posts, the ability of his posts to significantly or slightly change public perception of the teams and players, i believe this certain blogger was slighted and misunderstood in his time. That blogger was robbed of HOF status by DOB, the fellow bloggers, and the fans of the blog. I Mr. Baseball Blogger Historian do now vote for this misunderstood mediocre blogger to make the DOB/MIB/AJC/BRAVOS HOF although no one in his time deemed him worthy - not his fellow bloggers, not DOB, and not the regular readers and fans of the blogs who do not post.

Historians are cool to read but alot of the times they get it wrong themselves. They have a job to do and need to justify their jobs, thus they exaggerate the importance of a certain individual or they pooh pooh the previously believed importance of a certain individual. Otherwise, they are just regurgitating what we already know

By geauxbraves2000

March 1, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

I know I’m ready for the season to being, getting pumped about the Braves getting out of the bases loaded no out situation. It’s too early to be this excited about an 1/2 inning, ain’t it?

Geaux Braves!!

By Shaun

March 1, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Under your rationale, we could never say Babe Ruth or Honus Wagner were great players because we never saw them play. I just don’t think we should go as far as saying you aren’t qualified to define greatness unless you see greatness. I think that’s dangerous territory in which to tread.

Let me clarify. I think it’s dangerous to say you can’t define greatness unless you see greatness at the exact moment it is happening. To say we can’t define Babe Ruth or Honus Wagner as Hall of Fame players because we never saw them perform is just very wrong in my opinion. We can see enough evidence and know enough to conclude they are Hall of Famers without seeing them play.

If I were voting, I never saw Santo play. Even if I think the evidence is convincing he’s a Hall of Famer, does that mean I can’t vote for him because I didn’t see his greatness during the time he was playing? I think that is a flawed and dangerous way to think.

By A.J.

March 1, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Is the MLB webcast for the spring training games only for subscribers or are they free?

Free seems unlikely since MLB is involved.

By GaBulldogs

March 1, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

John Smoltz, by far my favorite Brave of all time. A good man and a great pitcher. I hope he makes it to the Hall one day.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

joe dimaggio on opening day: “you look forward to it like a birthday party when you’re a kid. you think something wonderful is going to happen.”

opening day means different things to different people - for instance - opening day to chipper might mean baseball and it might mean huntin’. since chipper is a star baseball player this journalist thinks opening day probably means baseball most of the time. still, openin’ huntin’ day probably means something, too. oh, the humanity! where is this post going? never mind. now, it is good to get a good report on lew’s toe health. let’s hope chipper has good toe health all season long.

By TennesseePaul

March 1, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

have a rather pricey test on baseball rules and history and those who pay and make a very high score, get to vote

Just saw this little tid bit on the last blog. After you ran DOB into the ground for being simply a beat writer with limited knowledge of how the game is played and how to judge greatness… Just who in fact are we paying when we shellout the money for the “rather pricey test” to make the “very high score”?

By ncscoots

March 1, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Historians are cool to read but alot of the times they get it wrong themselves. They have a job to do and need to justify their jobs, thus they exaggerate the importance of a certain individual or they pooh pooh the previously believed importance of a certain individual. Otherwise, they are just regurgitating what we already know

My guess is that you haven’t met any historians.

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Lew, so that others won’t be confused, my statement you’re putting meaning into my words and that’s unfair was meant to communicate that it was unfair to put any meaning to words that were intended to have no meaning! The “such nonsense will not be tolerated” part was meant to convey that I wouldn’t allow you to make any sense of my nonsense” … just so everyone knows!

Now, the part about not being able to get the tickets I wanted and sitting behind the foul pole the last time there … are true, give or take a lie or two.

I was honestly surprised to learn that the odifferous one emailed you and Grinch … I would have thought he would perceive it would be to his disadvantage … revealing his email address to you.

By alex

March 1, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

braveheart, your writings enlighten me.

By Shaun

March 1, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

As Rob Neyer pointed out, back when Joe Morgan was playing, there was no TWIB or ESPN or MLBTV.com or anything like that. Morgan only saw players he played against and maybe one nationally televised game a week.

Again, it’s hard for me to believe Joe Morgan is any more qualified to define the greatness of Marty Marion (or some older player) than someone like say Dan Okrent or, dare I say, Bill James (ahhh!!!…be afraid).

Your analogy with the blog needs some reworking. It would be as if we said someone like Stephen King (someone who we would define as a great writer) were to be kept from voting for a HOF of the Braves blog.

Do we really want to say you have to be a contemporary baseball player to define a particular players greatness? Again, if that were the case, no one could ever make any judgments about the greatness of Babe Ruth or Honus Wagner because no one alive ever saw them play. Do we really want to say that Honus Wagner can’t be in the discussion for great shortstops of all-time because a person bringing up that discussion couldn’t have possibly seen him play?

By John Adcox

March 1, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Alas, an annual subscription is, I think, $14. I should be ashamed of myself. However, I AM listening to baseball now.

By beachcomber

March 1, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

thrillhouse - sorry. they make me work here - even though I own the place - and I dropped off the blog for a few hours. Your question pretty much got answered - just google mlbaudio and you’ll get there. $14.95 for the year - best bargain in town particularly in light of the directTV doings and the rest. Great to sit here in the office and hear baseball on March 1.

By Braves20

March 1, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

First Salty sighting of the year! Boy, same old Dodgers - all those good arms and they still can’t catch the ball!

By John Adcox

March 1, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

5 to 2 Atlanta. Anyone ever notice how Pete gives the score a LOT more when the Braves are ahead? Pete Orr just smashed a double.

By Shaun

March 1, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

You are putting words in my mouth. I never questioned DOB’s knowledge of greatness or the game.

But I do think DOB would be the first to tell you there are probably people out there who no more about 1940’s baseball than he and would be more qualified to define the greatness of a particular player in the 1940’s than he would. All I’m saying is why not let those types of people vote, too?

And you a quibbling over the details and ignoring my point. Maybe the money could go to charity or something. I’m just saying, have a way to objectively weed out baseball history experts who are probably more qualified to judge the greatness of players than probably some of the current members of the Veteran’s Committee and allow them to have a say in the process in addition to the current members.

By ssiscribe

March 1, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

MLB audio is a great deal but not free, $14.95 for the entire season from spring training to the playoffs. But this Scribe will not be purchasing MLB audio, or anything else, after the spending spree on Braves tickets this morning.

Good news on Davies today, and Kelly J., too.

The Scribe abides … perhaps on the couch tonight, but abiding just the same.

Selah.

—30—

By John Adcox

March 1, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Braves up 6 to 2 now.

By Yars

March 1, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB…………..how ‘bout we have a, “Kelly Johnson watch” blog? Until he is named opening day 2B, a blog is put up everyday on his progress. All I know is that it seems like everyone is pulling for him. Glad to hear he had a good game today. Even got some balls hit to him! My fantasy baseball team needs a 2B really bad, & if KJ becomes Atlanta’s 2B, I’m thinking of picking him up. Too early to tell, I guess. Now Playing…’Today’ by Smashing Pumpkins.

By Shaun

March 1, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

Are we unable to say Abe Lincoln was a great president? I mean, none of us lived during his tenure and I doubt any of us have ever been president. Are we unable to say Einstein was a great scientist? Probably none of us saw him work and I doubt many of us are scientist. So why should we say defining a baseball players greatness should be limited to only contemporary players or writers that may or may not have covered him? Just doesn’t make sense to me.

By ncscoots

March 1, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

What happened in the 6th?

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Salty had a solid two-run pinch single in the three-run sixth inning, and they got three more hits and another run in the seventh for a 7-2 lead.

paronto toeing the slab for the Bravos in the eighth

By Mangum

March 1, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Just bought my tickets today too…to go see the Cubs play the Braves at Wrigley. I am from ATL but now live in Chicago. I will always root for the Braves first and the Cubbies 2nd. Being a Braves fan in Chicago is not that hard to do. Most Cub fans are very smart (baseball wise that is) and have a great deal of respect for the Braves and what they have assomplished the past decade and a half.

By Mangum

March 1, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Greatest Steve Phillips move of all-time: Scott Kazmir for Victor Zambrano.

By Walter Sobchek

March 1, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

You’re out of your element Donnie.

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I’m haven’t been able to follow the thread as closely as I would like but if the “Under your rationale, … I think that’s dangerous territory in which to tread*” was in response to my post to you, then either you didn’t understand my comments or I didn’t express myself properly … maybe a bit of both.

I want you to know that in no way was I intending to suggest that one has to witness an event in order to appreciate it for what it is; regardless of how long age it happened.

However, I do feel that if you weren’t elected to the Hall by those familiar with your play, then I find it difficult to accept your being elected by those who weren’t.

Assuming you were addressing my post … please reread it with that in mind … and if you’re unsure as to my meaning … please let me know and I’ll post a more detailed explanation … again on the previous Blog, out of deference to others.

As I indicated, I would assume mine to be an unpopular, minority opinion.

While I’ve previously joked with you about it, don’t forget that I’m just a fan and fans don’t have to be able to defend their opinions in order to have them.

By John Adcox

March 1, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Braves win! Braves win! Braves win!

By ssiscribe

March 1, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

“paronto toeing the slab for the Bravos in the eighth”

Toe journalism at its best.

Everybody in the A, buckle up. One hell of a line of thunderstorms rolling in here later today. The radar ain’t pretty, folks.

Later, on. Gotta wrap this thing up.

—30—

By The Stranger

March 1, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

“paronto toeing the slab for the Bravos in the eighth”

Shameless pandering to your readership. I like it.

By Thomas

March 1, 2007 3:41 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 Shaun

March 1, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Bob, journalist,

I just think there are some people likely more qualified to define a player as a Hall of Famer than some of the folks who vote. Again, I think there are certain historians who are more qualified than someone like George Brett (as Rob Neyer points out) to define certain players from say the 1940’s as Hall of Famers.

I would actually be more proud if someone like Stephen King or Tom Clancy said I was a great blogger than someone like KC or TennPaul or you or other people who post on this blog. With all due respect to you guys, I consider Stephen King or Tom Clancy more of an expert on the subject than you guys and I think you would agree, even though King or Clancy have never been on the Braves blog (that I know of).

By MGL

March 1, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

DOB did not mention this, but ex-Brave Travis Smith gave up 4 hits and 3 ER today. Thanks Travis!!

By hisroyalmackness

March 1, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Why is everyone always so down on Diaz’s D? From what I’ve seen, he actually fields very well. Obviously, he’s not as good defensively as Langy, but when you take into consideration both of their offensive abilities, I would say that Diaz is the better player overall.

By Shaun

March 1, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Bob, journalist,

I guess the argument here is are players more familiar with the play of players they never say play than certain historians. I would say probably not.

George Brett and Joe Morgan are not historians, with all due respect. I don’t know for sure, but I would guess there are folks alive that have done extensive research on Honus Wagner and are more familiar with his play than Brett and Morgan or probably a vast majority of the current Veteran’s Committee.

By RC

March 1, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

I agree with Thomas that based on just righty vs. lefty matchups we are perfectly set up right now for two platoons. I think it gets more complicated when realizing: 1)Thorman is just as good against lefties as righties 2)Diaz is actually BETTER against righties than lefties 3)Langerhans is horrible against righties I guess this could still work for 1b, but the most “effective” platoon for LF would have the righty batting vs. righties and lefty vs. lefties, even though it is unorthodox. And yes, I like using both the words “righties” and “lefties”.

By RC

March 1, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I think you are missing the point that Bob is trying to make. He’s saying that people who played WITH OR AGAINST a player know the talent level of THAT PLAYER (not past players) better than someone who never played. And I agree with him. HOWEVER, I also think someone who played WITH OR AGAINST a player is more likely to be subjective with a vote, based on whether or not they liked a person or not. So you run the risk of guys who were borderline HOF but good friends with current members getting in. You also have the risk that guys who were quite “top teir” but better than borderline don’t get in because they were a jerk, or had a bad relationship with a guy who is already in. And Joe Morgan is an idiot (not really relevant, just wanted to note it).

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Another big day for Yunel Escobar, who played most of the game at third base and went 3-for-3 with three singles and an RBI.

Brayan Pena also went 2-for-2.

Not a great day for the Dodgers 3B, Wilson Betemit, who was 0-for-2 with a strikeouts and made two errors.

I’m told by Dodgers folks that Andy LaRoche will get a chance to beat him out for the starting job this spring, in part because Betemit was so bad against lefties last season.

By Kieran from Long Island

March 1, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Timed my lunch perfectly so that i could sit back, relax and watch Jorge Sosa serve up his Community fastballs. Chris Duncan Oppo, and Scott Spiezo a BOMB over the left center field wall. Tell all the kids in teh Shea Bleachers to bring their baseball gloves this year if Jorge makes the 25-man roster… perhaps some Protective Headgear as well!

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Oh, forgot the NEWS OUT OF CLUBHOUSE: Chris Woodward strained a calf muscle before the game, and Bobby says he could be out a week.

On a somewhat related note, WILLY AYBAR had his visa appointment at 2 p.m. today and a flight scheduled for 4:40 p.m., which they weren’t sure he’d be able to make. If he did, he’ll be here for tomorrow’s game. If not, he’ll be here sometime tomorrow afternoon during the game.

And Frank Wren assured me the Braves aren’t p’d off at him, said it’s not his fault and that 3 to 5 percent of players are going to have visa problems in the post-9/11 world and you just hope it’s not your players.

Also talked to me a little more about the Betemit trade and why they like Aybar more for the role than they did Betemit. I’ll give you that later. Gotta write for the paper right now.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

One more thing: Wickman decided he wants to pitch tomorrow, so he’s now scheduled to pitch.

His spring training program includes pitching in games “whenever he wants to,” Bobby said.

By dcarp23

March 1, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

DOB-If the Bravos decide to deal Escobar, what do you think they would seek in return? Is there a hole in the current 25 man that they’d like to fill, or would they be looking for prospects? Clearly this is all speculation, but I’d like to hear yours and others if they are interested.

By ncscoots

March 1, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Well, the Whistler has some innings at SS and 3B, let’s see if they plop him at 2B sometime in the next couple of days. That might be interesting.

By RC

March 1, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

After DOB’s comment about Wickman pitching, did anyone else get a mental image of Wickman walking over to Bobby’s office and announcing in a Pedro Serano type voice “Wickman want to pitch tomorrow”? Followed by Bobby glancing up at him, pausing for a minute, then turning his attention back to his desk and saying, “Ok, Bob, you’re pitching tomorrow.”

By Lew

March 1, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Shaun-Exactly why are Stephen King and Tom Clancy more qualified to judge bloggers than anyone else here? Because they are published authors? I’m a published author. Grinch writes frequently for web pages, writing various reviews. Is it because, as authors they can write grammatically correct sentences? I can write grammatically correct sentences. Grinch, JJS, Bob and even Stinky can write grammatically correct sentences. I used to teach English composition. Is it because King and Clancy are financially succesful? That’s not a valid criterion for blog worthiness. As far as I’m concerned, I can write just as well as your “Experts” and I know as much about baseball as either one. So do a number of others who post here on a regular basis. I guess we should vote for the HOF, too. We couldn’t do much worse than the “professional” Baseball Writers have (apologies, DOB, of course that statement doesn’t apply to you. They won’t let you vote, anyway). Besides, I have a better OBP than King. He just runs and hides from the boogeyman.

By kdbanks

March 1, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

“Paronto toeing the slab…” Man I’d hate to be that slab.

By KC

March 1, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Is there a box score from today’s game available anywhere???

By MGL

March 1, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

KC - If you go to “scoreboard” on MLB.COM, you can click on “box” for the box scores on any completed game.

By dcarp23

March 1, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

KC-mlb.com has a box score.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

“paronto toeing the slab for the Bravos in the eighth” - this is beautiful journalism. now, chico cadahia was in an accident today - on the way to the park - but is reported okay. more baseball … now this journalist realizes why jimmy smith likes escobar. eskimo bar. eskimo pie. always thinking of ice cream at this journalist’s house. eskimo pie bar would be very tasty right now. better to have an escobar than a felix pie. now, this information from frank wren on the braves thinking with the betemit trade is going to be helpful to bloggers. this has been a topic for a long time and it will be good to learn more. and does wicky’s spring training routine also involve exercise and running?

By Greg in TN

March 1, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Appreciate the updates, DOB.

I do have one question. What are your thoughts on Frank Wren? I know one of these days, JS will decide to hang ‘em up and Wren appears is the heir apparent within the organization with the departure of Dayton Moore. From what little I’ve seen or heard of him, he seems to be a sharp guy.

Always, always, always enjoy a win over the Dodgers. Scribe, I loved your post on the ‘82 Braves. Brings back an awful lot of wonderful memories (I was 12 that magical season). It was that year I began to really hone my dislike for the Dodgers, Lasorda and everything Dodger blue.

By gotigers72

March 1, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

KEEP ESCOBAR. I’m talking about on the major league team.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

hope this information is helpful:

Kissimmee Krispy Kreme 5318 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial HWY Kissimmee, FL 34746 US

By dcarp23

March 1, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Here it is.

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Proud Blogger, I am at present preoccupied but it is obvious that my intent and your understanding haven’t shaken hands and you aren’t hearing me … again, either you didn’t carefully read my original post or I was remiss. I understand that folks don’t get over 60% of what I say … but 0%?

I would suggest a pole but it seems that perhaps one has already been initiated.

Seriously, you’re entitled to your opinion … but I would hope that we will be able to agree … even it it is but to disagree.

I’ve been published too … and had some of my stuff rejected … think out of the box man … if you don’t, someone’s lible to cut your legs off and you’ll go deaf!

David, don’t fret if I should disappear sometime during the next few days … I’ll be back if I so do!

By Carolina Lady

March 1, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

KC, here’s a link

By ssiscribe

March 1, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady, is that you? Please say yes. We’ve missed you dearly.

—30—

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

My Lady, My Lady My Lady … and what a lovely sight you are too … welcome home!!

By ernesto

March 1, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

I just thought you all ought to know the character you’ve come to know and love as ernesto is fictional. We’re actually 6 barely dressed sorority girls from the University of Alabama, and in between tickle fights and trying on each other’s lingerie, we thought it would be fun to pose as a Braves’ fan, but we just couldn’t keep the charade up any longer. Oh well, time for a pillow fight.

By ernesto

March 1, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

that is so not true.

By ellaguru

March 1, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

“Toeing the Slab.” I think that’s a Nashville P*** album title. Can O’Brien be far from calling a home run a “circuit clout?”

It’s amazing, though, how some of this euphemistic stuff sticks with you. I’ll never forget a headline I saw in Sporting News when I was in high school, maybe ‘70: “Rocks Mar Expo Junket Over Heartbreak Hill.” Have NO IDEA what the story was about but that is a hed for the friggin’ ages!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith is ugandan and has some difficulty with sentence structure - that’s why jimmy smith turned to journalism - but LeTwan Anthony is a published author. LeTwan could make a solid HOF pick even on a day LeTwan is not writing professionally. now, if a certain baseball player failed a urine test as rumored why did he not study? and if evander is suspected of taking steroids which lucky ajc sportswriter will be assigned to get the story? this could be a tricky assignment and most threatening.

By Lew

March 1, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Bob-I’m not even 10% sure who you’re talking to, but if it’s me, I’m over whatever you may think I’m upset about. Never was upset, anyway. I just don’t happen to believe Stinky’s and SJA’s protestations of humbleness and future goodwill. That’s all. No big deal or anything. Even if I do get upset, I get over it very quickly and my friends really have to try hard to not be my friends. Quit worrying. We’re cool with each other as far as I’m concerned.

By roan st

March 1, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

I’m pulling hard for the kelly johnson experiment to work out. But whats the deal with the braves org claiming all of our great infield prospects are shortstops only and refuse to move any to second. We have escobar and lillibridge who look to be solid major league prospects with andrus not to far behind. We can convert an outfielder to second but not a shortstop? How about trying escobar at third to eventually replace chipper in the lineup. If the guy continues to hit lights out then I would move him up to the role aybar played last season.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! the link was a box score. carolina lady is back! (had it been an impostor the link might have been to an ugly site). now, will carolina lady please talk some baseball? what of escobar? whither aybar? ay-bar? profiling? if the alabama tornado is coming to atlanta this journalist is going to this journalist’s bassement for the evening.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 1, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

I had a feeling Ernesto was a girl/girls. I first thought so when I noticed how sensitive she was.

By Salty55

March 1, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Bob, the journalist “…it is obvious my intent and your understanding haven’t shaken hands…”.

Darn that was well put!! (Hi, CL, always watchin’ the language!)

By tvsportscaster

March 1, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

Magnum, just saw your 3:24 post about Steve Phillips’ greatest move being Zambrano for Kazmir. Steve Phillips had already been fired at that point. Jim Duquette has that dubious distinction of making that boneheaded move.

By TennesseePaul

March 1, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Payne: Stephen King? I love his novels. I enjoy his movies. I never knew he was an authority on blogworthiness. But if that is what you need in order to feel good about blogging so beit. It might be a while though.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 1, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

All of these infields pose a very good problem for the Braves. What are they going to do with all of them. If Woodward, Aybar, Diaz, and Langerhans all remain Braves that means that Lillibridge, Escobar, Pena, Prado, Orr, and Eric Campbell would all be fighting for playing time between AA and AAA. What will the Braves do? I believe one of these guys (Prado, Orr, or Escobar in particular) will be traded before spring training ends.

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Lew, the “ProudBlogger” wasn’t directed at you at all … but rather for Shaun and his “I would actually be more proud if someone like Stephen King or Tom Clancy said I was a great blogger than someone like KC or TennPaul or you or other people who post on this blog”.

I found that comical … to me, the opinion of the blog residents is of paramount importance to me … and while not always successful, I strive to have their respect … friend and foe alike!

Yes, I think Shaun’s statement is funny but ever so sad!

Maybe I’m being hypercritical … I’ve had a tough two days … and know that it shows … but all of my posts to you were in total jest … and thought I was being obvious … were I to be serious with my close friends in any sort of negative way, trust that I would use Bobby’s office and not put it on public display. I thought I was joining in some good natured fun … maybe some inside humor that I thought you would appreciate … but nothing more!

The 60% reference was from Grinch’s comment from a while back when he claimed that he never could understand more than about 60% of what I wrote … I’m sure I’ve overplayed it but I liked it … while I know that I can be obtuse I always assume that my friends know me to be harmless and that I can be direct when I feel the need and so choose.

Stepping out of character, I respect and appreciate my friends and trust their judgment … I always assume they totally understand me 100% regardless of Grinch’s protestations; either literally or using their third eye.

Trust me, my friend … the truck off which I fell is 2,500 years old … my attitudes toward apathy and appropriate behavior haven’t changed … folks have to earn my respect just as I must earn theirs … you’ve earned mine!

As an artist, as a blogger, as a man, as a friend!

By braveheart

March 1, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Shaun: I often agree with you and actually really like the perspective you bring to the blogs. I do think you need to stop imitating the smugness of Neyer about it all though. Even Neyer has admitted within the last year that if did not have a boss or books to sell, he would not be as smug as he is about his opinions.

But I think your argument is rather strange on this one. If you are talking about an all time team or an all century team or something similar, then yes it would be best to have a baseball historian type determine who the best all time lineup, pitching staff or 25 man roster would be. But, as for selecting the HOFers they are not needed (that much).

Just look at Morgan, he began playing professionally i think in the early 1960s. The man’s career has spanned almost 50 years at this point as a player and as a broadcaster. If he is not qualified to determine who of his contemporaries is worthy of HOF status, then who would be?

He should not be a little conceited jerk and tell good players that he is not going to lower his standards for them. That was disgusting for him to say. Very soriority girlish of him.

Almost anyone whose career was going on before Morgan and who has not made it yet really should not be in the discussion. IF five decades have passed without a HOF induction, then I am sorry, as Morgan says, the standards should not be lowered all these years later. No eggheaded baseball historian should try to justify himself by trying to put a guy who has been repeatedly rejected for 5, 6, 7 decades into the hall now.

As for your other strange argument. Stephen King? Tom Clancy? John Grisham? Are you freaking kidding me? They are good at what they do - tell simple stories and sell shallow superficial books. You can read their books in a day’s worth of trips to the toilet.

If I wanted to learn how to write a shallow superficial book that sold, I would ask them how to do that. With Grisham, you would start off as always by creating a main character with no mother and father because that would mean you would need to create more depth than you want in your characters. With Clancy, you just create a macho version of the man you wish you were and who your ex-wife will not let you write about anymore. With King, you just go back to thinking like an eight year old, and throw out crazy, yucky, gross out horror. In case you have not noticed, their books are written on a fifth grade level. they get a decent couple of best sellers early on, and then they just throw out a bunch of poorly written slop and sameness.

A writer looking for the approval of Stephen King, Tom Clancy, or John Grisham is like an aspiring musician stating that I do not want any of you to tell me I am a good musician. I only want my musical abilities appreciated by Britney Spears, Kelly Clarkson, Jessica Simpson, and Paula Abdul. Whether you realize it or not, Grisham, King, and Clancy are the literary equivalents of Spears and Abdul.

By Ted

March 1, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

DOB-

I’m following spring training from Nebraska (I liked the Omaha music scene plug with The Faint, by the way), where we just got ‘bout 10 inches of snow…hows the weather down there?

ps-who pitched today? I haven’t seen a box score yet.

Ted

By Carolina Lady

March 1, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Hey, everyone!

I much appreciate your kind comments! Sorry to have been away but serious family obligations have required it.

I’ve just had time to scan a few comments here and there lately, but I can’t tell you how truly happy I am to see old friends posting!

ssiscribe, you are an artist with words, sir, and, I suspect, a poet at heart. :-)) Salute! You and DOB bring life to a flat-screen monitor and my baseball heart!

I’ll be here off and on as I’m able.

I hope I’m not talking out-of-school, but our friend Bob has suffered the loss of a family member today. God be with you, Bob.

BASEBALL!!! YES!!! Survived another winter! :-))) (Didn’t I??)

By TennesseePaul

March 1, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

No eggheaded baseball historian should try to justify himself by trying to put a guy who has been repeatedly rejected for 5, 6, 7 decades into the hall now.

Braveheart: I think some caveats need be applied to this. For a time there the Negro leagues were not in the Hall. That shouldn’t be. There were quite a few good players in those leagues who weren’t afforded the opportunity to play in MLB based on foolish prejudice. They are still pooring through the sources to determine which of the players are truly worthy.

But I agree, if Dale Murphy isn’t in by 2057, he isn’t getting in. And at that point, he shouldn’t be put in. Payne is a little ridiculous in thinking charging people a fortune to pass a test would correct the voting flaws. There will always be players who some feel should be included but are not. And those few who argue for them will continue to manipulate the stats to show why they are correct and everyone else has been wrong for the last 100 years.

By TennesseePaul

March 1, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

CL: Welcome back. This season keeps on shaping up better and better. A pure trouncing of the Dodgers farm and journeymen today. And a nice little beating of one of their new pitching additions.

By michael

March 1, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Kurt Vonnegut once said there are two kinds of writers. The ones with no money and the ones who have too much money. As journalist jimmy smith might say, “oh, the humanity.” What a terrible injustice that not every English major gets to write a bestseller or win the National Book Award. Hell, I like Stephen King. And any writer able to make a living has my respect, even if I don’t particularly like what some of them write. Anyway, this is supposed to be about baseball isn’ it.

DOB, just sitting here waiting for the tornado to blow away my double wide and wishing I was in Florida eating a hot dog and drinking an adult beverage. Perhaps Smoltz should have squirted some BBQ sauce on his foot in Minnesota in 1991. His performance in game seven at the Garbage Bag Dome ranks right up there with the guttiest I’ve ever seen. Such a shame somebody had to lose that game. Poor Mark Lemke never looked so forlorn.

Anyway, let me go tie down my goats before they pull fly off and join the munchkins and the wizard and the wicked witch of the west in the Emerald City.

See ya at the yard.

By woogidy

March 1, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

Roan, The answer is a shortstop has more value than a second basemen. The conversion process would only begin if it was determined a prospect is Major League ready, and the Braves needed players in that area. This is why Kelly Johnson was converted twice, once to the outfield and now to second. Look at the Salty situation. He will be a catcher until he is ready for the Big Leagues and then switched or traded as a catcher. A good hitting catcher is worth more than a good hitting first baseman, or corner outfielder. Remember where Chipper played in the Minors? Shortstop

By TheSouthernStraightShooter

March 1, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this

With some people, solitariness is an escape not from others, but from themselves—for they see in the eyes of others only a reflection of themselves…

By Sir Stealth

March 1, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

I agree with the comment saying that Diaz’s D in left is underrated. Langerhans is more consistent, but Diaz made some unbelievable plays last year that were as good as any Ryan made. I also remember Langerhans being the only Brave who seemed to be able to consistently get hits the last time we were in the playoffs, and that means something.

The good competition that the Braves have in left and at 2b right now can only be a good thing. Players will have to work hard to get the jobs and there is a much better chance of whoever emerges actually being good.

A nice trade would be good as result too, but honestly, at this point I’m not sure what you trae those kinds of players for. The Braves likely wouldn’t be able to get much in the way of a better left fielder or second baseman for them, the bullpen is loaded, and we probably wouldn’t do much better than whoever comes out on top of the Davies/Cormier competition either. It seems like the Braves want to install Thorman as this franchise’s firt baseman, and all other positions are untouchable.

By m virgin

March 1, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

Is this second baseman named Chase Utley?

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

I hope none of you humble bloggers make the fatal error of mistaking my kindness for weakness—but it appears as if that is the case!…can’t let sleeping dogs lie, can you??…

By ernesto

March 1, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

No chop, even a bunch of sensitive girls could hit your 2 through pitchers - whoever they end up being.

By ernesto

March 1, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

that was 2 through 5 pitchers, sorry. And so are they.

By N8

March 1, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

DOB

“One more thing: Wickman decided he wants to pitch tomorrow, so he’s now scheduled to pitch. His spring training program includes pitching in games “whenever he wants to,” Bobby said.”

You of course realize that Robert is gonna ask why is it that Wickman just doesn’t become the manager, right?

:-) LOL!

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Well journalist jimmy smith, according to one of the “prized bloggers” here, I never changed to begin with—and now Bob, journalist is beginning to feel the heat for attempting to show TheSouthernJackAss a little kindness and civility, as you would say, Oh, the Humanity!…this is without a doubt the most concentrated collection of overbearing a$sholes that I have ever seen!…I could find more honesty and class at a damned beerjoint, or a w horehouse!…

By Lew

March 1, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Bob-Like I said, 2500 years old or not, we’re cool, Dude. I missed your e mail about your recent travails. Sorry for all you’re going through. You know I’m concerned. JJS-He’s not planning on going back to his old ways, the stripes on that leopard never changed.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Lew, I totally agree with you—so I guess that means that you’re still a genuine sonofabytch too!!!…

By Lew

March 1, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

SJA-Never doubt it for a minute, Dude. I’ve never said otherwise.

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Most Honorable, admonish the jackass and remind him that it’s been my experience that it takes more time to rid one’s self of the baggage one carries than the time it took to collect it.

Indeed, I’m not sure that one can ever be 100% effective in so doing.

If you’ll indulge me, “the proof of the pudding is in the eating” and some folks need to eat more than others before being satisfied that it’s the real thing and not some store bought imitation!

While I can emphasize with the frustration, “can’t let sleeping dogs lie, can you?” is almost like expecting folks to pretend the past was but a dream … and isn’t the best of toppings for the pudding … not if you want folks to eat it.

Instead, let me suggest that actions do indeed speak volumes, especially when you know that the spotlight is on you and indeed, some folks may well doubt your good intentions … a few may want you to fail … but, many more who are hoping that you’re sincere and will truly succeed … and you can take my word that they’ll applaud when you do!

I would be disappointed were I to find that my taste buds had deceived me … and my confidence misplaced … for I accepted your sincerity after but a taste of the pudding … but, above all else, it would be disappointing because I know you to be of better stuff!

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

journalist jimmy, where’s that award winning journalism that you’re always talking about now??…or have you ran out of the kitchen like always when it gets too hot for you…by the way, next time you’re having one of those private conversations with the beat writer, let him know just who started this one…and Lew—don’t ask for something that I’m damned sure you really don’t want!!!…

By ssiscribe

March 1, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

First and foremost, hope everybody is making it through the rough weather tonight in the Southeast. Our prayers to the folks down in Enterprise, Ala., where a tornado has killed 18, at last count.

Bob, we’ll keep you in our prayers, too. Sorry for your family’s loss.

CL, thank you SO much for your kind words. Hope your mom is doing OK and it’s so glad to see you back on the blog. Check in with us when you can; you always are home here.

Now, baseball (transition): Stellar day for the pride of Stockbridge. Think Kyle Davies needed that nice start to his pursuit for the fifth spot in the rotation? Better believe it. Really looks like he threw it well. Kid Kyle needs to rebuild his confidence, and there is no doubt the two innings he pitched today is a big step in the right direction.

Injuries at inopportune times can hurt a guy on the bubble. I don’t consider Craig Wilson a guy on the bubble, so I don’t think missing a week is going to jepordize his spot on the roster. Still, it’s hard through two days to ignore the nice start by Escobar. Another nice day with the stick today.

So far, the Pena name is the name to have. Yesterday, Tony Pena Jr. Today, Brayan Pena. Nice offensive days from both of them.

Any day the Braves beat the Dodgers (“Beat L.A.! Beat L.A.!”) is a fine, fine day.

And I bought quite a few more tickets this morning than I planned, but it’s OK. Five games down, about 20 more to go, I would reasonably assume. Nothing like knowing when the teams line up along the foul lines for the national anthem at the home opener, we’ll be there.

Now, Friday: No Thrashers game for me (Grinch, saw your note, bro. Think confidence indeed will be boosted by the deals), so I’ll have to watch on TV, then check out the tape of the Braves game later tomorrow night. And now Wicky wants to pitch. Let’s see Gonzalez in the eighth and Wickman in the ninth. Be a nice preview to what we hope to see often starting April 2.

Short night. More storms rolling through this way soon, so I’m shutting it all down. From the southern rim of the capitol city, the Scribe abides.

Peace. Stay dry. Go Braves.

—30—

By Lew

March 1, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

And what might that be?

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I understand but don’t need your words for me to know that you genuinely care … like I said before, you are my friend … my good friend … that says it for you!

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

No Bob,journalist—I think the best action that I can take here is to grant everyone their wish…a lion would never allow himself to be tamed by a bunch of apes!!!…

By Lew

March 1, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Thank you Bob, believe it that that means something to me.. SJA-What exactly was it that I started? Was it your awareness that it takes more than seemingly insincere platitudes to create change in oneself? Or was it the start of your excuse for reverting to form? Of course it would never occur to you to accept the responsibility for your own words, thoughts and actions. It’s always someone else’s doing, isn’t it? If you decide to revert to form, Dude, it’s nobody’s fault but yours. The devil didn’t make you do it. You did it yourself,

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

the 8:15 post is not from jimmy smith. notice how many “bloggers” are no longer blogging now that the multi-identity blogger is no longer here. perhaps there is copy-cat (but not so clever as the original) trying to start trouble on the now peaceful blog - but why? jimmy smith has no time for such foolishness. copy-cat is likely not clever enough to cause trouble for long. now, baseball … having smoltz in his corner should be very helpful to davies.

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Southern, Good analogy … I wouldn’t expect less … but the Lion has heart and while untamed, holds his head high and is respected by everyone in the jungle, including the apes!

Be a Lion if you will … lead by example … just don’t be a jackass!

I need my rest … take care

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

the 9:12 post is not from jimmy smith. there is a trouble-maker here. not sure who. sja, did you take a shot at this journalist in the 9:04 post? oh, the humanity! journalist doesn’t run and hide - journalist just chooses with whom journalist blogs - just as journalist chooses who jimmy smith will invite into jimmy smith’s home. some are on the list - some are not. best way to avoid blogging with someone you don’t like is to not blog. soemtimes journalist just walks away for a time. if the ajc decides someone is abusing the privilege perhaps the ajc will remove the offender. perhaps not. still, no reason to blog with a googan. right, journalist bob?

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this

Lew—I am very sure, and I know that Bob,journalist knows this also, that I admitted my past faults, and that I took complete blame and responsibility for every bit of it, none of which excuses any of it. But you my self-righteous “dude”, you had no right, or reason for bringing up my name, or the subject for which I thought had been put to rest. I could care less what you or anyone else thinks of me, matters not, but if you think I’m going to sit by quietly by will you run your mouth, then you had better think again…and if you try to say that you have not instigated most of what has been rained down on you then you’re clearly a liar too…

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

trying to turn the tide, huh? not clever enough. 9:33 post was not from jimmy smith. this blog still has problems. journalist will post no more tonight. g’night bloggers and blue worms everywhere.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

jimmy smith, I was referring to your(I guess it was yours)8:15 P.M. post where you asked if sja was returning to his old ways—I was trying to answer that question for you—and I told you before if someone poked a stick thru your cage that it wouldn’t be me, didn’t I jimmy?—guess my word isn’t any good to you either…and 9:24 wasn’t me either…I’m sure DOB can confirm that…

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

DOB—if you’ve got a pair, expose the jimmy smith imposter for all the world to see—then someone will be owed an apology…

By some guy

March 1, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

DOB you have the best job, righting sports blogs and commenting on them. great article. where do i find play by play though?

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 1, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

HA! This is exactly what I’ve been talking about! I don’t know who the poser was but as soon as little Jimmy leaves all the posts he whined about are gone! Felt the need to whine privately to the mighty O’Brien. WHAT A FREAKING LOSER!!!

By Bob, journalist

March 1, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, Lew, Honorable

I do need to call my son and get some sleep but I would like one thing clear … most folks in these parts know my position and attitude relative to “identity theives” … whether in fun or with evil intent!

Honorable, you know my feelings and I trust that you were serious and sincere when you agreed, following my infamous post.

Put aside your differences with regard to this one issue and let’s work together to see that it is permanently eliminated.

By Jerry Jeff

March 1, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Salute to Johnny Cash. I’ve seen it a couple of ways in lyrics, but when he sings, it’s “I found her trail in Memphis/but she just walked up the bluff, which makes more sense for Memphis, anyway.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

Michael, amusing and intelligent post at 6:55 p.m., hombre. We need more of that. Cracked me up after a looong day at the ‘yard.

Ted, good to have you on the ‘sphere from Omaha. Great music scene up there, man. Great, great music scene. What high school’d you go to in Omaha, if you went to school there? I only ask because I a bunch of buddies at KU from Omaha, wondering if you might by coincidence be from same era and school.

Gale Sayers, Omaha stud who made KU quite proud….

Great posts tonight _ until about 9:10 or so. Pretty much garbage since then, but that’s what happens when people think any of us actuall give a rat’s a*& about your personal insults and battles. Please exchange e-mail addresses and carry on that way, since no one else here is at all amused or entertained by the same tired mudslinging.

And no, JJS, you shouldn’t take that as an insult and stay away from the blog again. We want you here. I’m merely saying it’s not difficult to ignore the childish jabs, and if someone’s posing as you, just bring it my attention and I’ll check. I was away from the blog for a few hours, and soon as I got back on and saw the dude posting as you, the posts were zapped.

And yes, it’ll be real easy to have him banned if it continues. That’s the easiest bannable offense, posting as someone else. Might as well put a sign up on your posts, those doing that: I have nothing to say, so I’m going to try to stir things up as someone else, get a rise out of myself and all.

Don’t be surprised when you try to post and you’ve been banned, that’s all I’m saying to you, mr. original

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Oh, Ted, you asked about the pitching. If you haven’t seen a box by now, here’s a rundown:

Davies two innings, no hits, no walks, 1 K.

Cormier two innings, four hits, two runs (earned), two strikeouts.

Carlyle two inings, two hits, two strikeouts.

Acosta one inning, all zeroes

Paronto one inning, one hit

Yates one inning, one walk, all zeroes.

Punchless Dodgers only hit a couple of balls hard all day.

By MostHonorableSouthern

March 1, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Bob,journalist—everything that I told you was the truth…but, as usual DOB will dismiss anything that I have to say…and as you have witnessed here tonite, most of what I declared about how this blog operates was true…bottom line, I’m not the imposter…Bob, if you and I are to carry on any further communications, it will have to be in some venue other than this blog, I’m done with it…and this is my last post tonite—-any further posts under my name will not be me—just like that 10:05 post that was made by some gutless a*******hole!!!…

By N8

March 1, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

When did this blog turn into an imitation of a Jerry Springer blog?

Too funny!

Stay tuned folks. Coming up next week on the DOB blog:

Redneck transexual hookers, that dress like Charles Kerfeld. We’ll be back right after this message from Valtrex.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

SouthernJA, he didn’t complain to me at all. I just saw you guys going back and forth, checked and found the posts that weren’t his, and had them deleted. As I wrote, it’s not OK to post as someone else. Not fair, either. But really, you fellas might be overreacting juuust a bit, don’t you think? Or maybe not. Maybe it is worth busting a gut and making pointless idle threats to one another over. Carry on.

When’s the duel? The alley brawl to settle this? The drag race for pink slips? Oh, that’s right, none of those things will happen because you’ll NEVER SEE EACH OTHER and all the threats and insults are completely hollow and ridiculous.

Oh, well, should have known yesterday’s blog peace couldn’t last. Whatever. Enjoy. Gonna watch rest of UNC-Tech game. Let me know when we can set up a duel at 50 paces.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

N8, isn’t it absolutely ridiculous? It’s kinda cute, though. We talk baseball all day, then turn it over to those who feel the need to let off steam and revert to some good ‘ol namecalling. Ah, middle school. Cool.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

And I will not dismiss anything you say, WhateverYou’reCallingYourself now. Haven’t dismissed or deleted one post from you. Keep it up. It’s great entertainment. I honestly have no idea what the hell you’re talking about, working yourself into a lather over, but it’s good stuff. More exclamation marks! More profane language with $#@’s! It’s all so enlightening. Who needs baseball when we can talk … uh, well, what are we talking with you? It’s not politics, not entertainment, not sports, not global warming … not anything, really, near as I can tell.

Hey, not to interrupt that brilliant stuff, but The Office was a rerun tonight. But at least it was a classic one, where they were going to shut down the Scranton office. Brilliant stuff. Not as witty as the writing we’ve seen here in the last hour or so, but brilliant nonetheless.

By Grant

March 1, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Your headline and his comment are not the same. Quit trying to make the news, the news. Best of luck talking to him again.

By Braves fan 202

March 1, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB great posts and thanks for keeping the blog about baseball. i also have not seen a box though and could you tell me how the hitters did. How many at bats did the main starters get and has anyone improved their swing that you can see? Ive got school tomorrow but im tapin the game and excited to see them on tv, been a while since i could watch some baseball.

By Gil in Mechanicsville (hack)

March 1, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Hello all, I wish to testify before all here and now that I am fully aware that I have absolutely no singing ability what so ever. None, nada, zip… In fact, the choir at church when asking for volunteers said specifically. We need anybody, except for you Gil.

With that said I want you all to know that even with that dismal condemnation of my vocal abilities, I feel I am no less qualified than the next guy to judge musical talent as I personally can appreciate perhaps maybe even more than the next person the wondrous sound another human being can produce with only their God given talent and hard work.

Thus let it be with baseball. Do we really need to be present to witness for ourselves every deed for us to know it to be true? The greats like Cobb and Ruth and Cy Young. Their feats are recorded by those who lived in their time. Although one wonders if the great players of yesteryear could have withstood the constant in your face scrutiny that players get today and still perform to the same level.

Mantle, Aaron and Mayes, all greats of a time a little more recent for some of us, their deeds are now a fading distant memory that only grow with fervor, as some of us who were fortunate to actually witness them get older and wish not for them to be forgotten.

Our modern day heroes, Smoltz, Maddox, and Glavin seem destine to the hall of fame. I do not have to be an expert to know this and to recognize their great talent nor to appreciate the difference in their pitching styles. I am just a fan who is a student of the game that loves and appreciates baseball just as I love music.

By SJA

March 1, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

DOB—I only asked you to let jimmy smith know that it wasn’t me using his name, that’s all…otherwise you can stick this lamea$$ blog straight up your a$$!…

By David

March 1, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

DOB

I can stand (sometimes even ENJOY) Robert and all of his Bobby Cox rants. IT’S FR*CKIN’ FUNNY!

I can handle arguing with somebody when they haven’t got a clue as to why they are arguing their point, but insist on arguing it either.

I can be annoyed, but accept people that spell Braves player’s names incorectly, yet want us to take them seriously. Examples: Greg Maddox, Andrew Jones, Mike Hamden.

But it’s just LAME as can be when people that are up way past their bedtime, insist on showing the world how “tough” they are. THAT IS FUNNY.

DOB, are you a fan of Steven Lynch? He’s a comedian that plays guitar and sings. He’s actually a really good vocalist and rights some catchy (yet predictle) tunes. Funny stuff, IMO. Anyhow, I was listening to the Sirius radio today at my office and there was a song of his on there called D&D, it’s a REALLY funny song, mocking nerds who played (or still do…YIKES!) Dungeons and Dragons.

Sorry to go off topic and all, but that’s what all of this crap tonight reminded me of.

L8R

By rupert

March 1, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

i just i wanted to say that i got a good feeling about this team, unlike last year when i had a bad feeling

By rupert

March 1, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

i have a good feeling about this team DOB, unlike last year when i had a bad feeling…

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Good retort at 10:38. Thank you.

So can we count on your continued patronage?

Peace

By Braves fan 202

March 1, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

To the guy who is posing as DOB, keep it on baseball, you’re supposed to read the article and comment on it. So n8 i think it is, keep it interesting or dont comment. The braves played their first real game today and no one wants to know about it, and DOB where do you find play by play

By David

March 1, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

DOB

Here are the lyrics to that Stephen Lynch (I spelled his first name wrong before - I gues that must mean I’m not a BIG fan of his, huh? LOL!)

D & D:

i got my twelve sided die and im ready to roll with a wizard and my goblin crew, my friends are comin over to my moms basement bringin funyuns and the mountain dew,

i got a big broad sword made out of cardboard and that stereo’s a-pumpin zeppelin, its that time of the night we turn on the black light let the dungeons and the dragons begin,

it’s d&d! fighting with the legends of yore. it’s d&d!

never kissed lady before (nope). now the lord of the rings the dark crystal and things,we use these as a reference tool, and when we put on our cloaks and tell warlock jokes we’re the coolest kids in the school…

no we’re not i know now tiche’s a real bastard but a fair dungeon master, he’s got hit points and charisma to lend, i rehearse in my room or what i call the dragons tomb when im not im with my girlfriend,*

its d&d…wait… youve got a girlfriend? yeah. yeah…no.

its d&d!warriors that terrify. its d&d! virgins til the day we…*

Now THAT is funny!

By Braves fan 202

March 1, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Rupert you had a bad feeling last year? Not many people can predict that sense they would always win. Im glad your feeling good, what are your predictions come october. Man is it me or does october feel like 10 years from now. What am i sayin april feels like 10 years!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 1, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

journalist returned only to read the blog and with no intention of posting. then journalist read dob’s post. jimmy smith has offered no personal insults and has not engaged in anything more than pointing out to all that the posts tonight were not those of jimmy smith. at no time during this journalist’s time blogging here has jimmy smith communictaed with dob or with anyone else at the ajc by any means other than this blog. no phone calls. no letters. no e-mails complaining about stolen identities, name calling, racial slurs, or sexual innuendo, all of which jimmy smith has endured while blogging here. so, as lew so aptly put things earlier - accept your own shortcomings and responsibility for your own actions. don’t blame your banishment on jimmy smith or anyone else. anyone who gets banned from a baseball blog has nothing of which to be proud - and no one but himself to blame.

ignoring a jab is one thing, dob. having someone post as jimmy smith and disparage other bloggers is something entirely different. this should not be condoned.

now, baseball … the “p” players have come to play this season. go “p” players!

By Impostor

March 1, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Wouldn’t it be funny if there was some guy that lived 12 hours from Atlanta that posed as jjs once, then sja just to make them fight with each other for amusement purposes? And wouldn’ t it be funny if it worked? The old farts on here are the ones who get their boxers in a bunch. It’s quite amusing…

By David

March 1, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

OK, apparently I’m getting tired. My spelling is going all to hell on me.

These are some “clips” from my last post:

I can handle arguing with somebody when they haven�t got a clue as to why they are arguing their point, but insist on arguing it either.

Meant to say “….insist on arguing it ANYHOW.”

He�s actually a really good vocalist and rights some catchy (yet predictle) tunes.

Yeah. rights, should’ve been WRITES. And predictle should have been predictible. Hell! I’m not even sure that is spelled write!….er, I mean right.

By N8

March 1, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Oh by the way.

NOTE TO SELF.

When you try and be funny and use “David O’Brien” as your name for a post. You should remember to SWITCH IT BACK TO YOUR ACTUAL MONIKER before you fire off about 3 or 4 more posts, since it saves the last one you used.

Who’s the idiot now?

Sorry DOB.

By Brad in MT

March 1, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

DOB…thanks for the updates and trying to steer the blog towards baseball and music and away from the annoying back and forth between some on here. I noticed that Mark Lemke has been on the radio broadcasts with Pete the past couple of days, is that just for the spring games or what? Maybe they can get you on for a few games!

By N8

March 1, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Braves fan 202

“To the guy who is posing as DOB, keep it on baseball, you’re supposed to read the article and comment on it.”

Let me give you a little CRASH COURSE in DOB Blogging 101.

1st of all, Is that how this blog is supposed to work? I read the story, then I “comment” on it? Thanks for the tip.

2nd of all, Is tonight your first night participating in the blog ? If it’s not, I appologize…just don’t recognize you. Anyhow, we often talk about many things on this blog. Ranging from movies, music, tv shows, and then everynow and then we talk Braves.

3 of all…..IT’S CALLED SARCASM. HUMOR. You know….FUNNY! Not funny queer, funny ha ha!

Lighten up Francis!

By Braves fan 202

March 1, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Ya N8 why did u post as DOB, you could atleast talk some braves, ive never seen you on any blog say anything with a point. An man i love seeing UNC lose, hope tech holds on. I like UGA but i also like duke baby, go devils!!

By N8

March 1, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Braves fan 202

Almost forgot this. You wrote:

“The braves played their first real game today and no one wants to know about it…”

Yeah. Those of us that PAY ATTENTION to what’s going on with the Braves (from DOB’s updates DURING THE GAME, AFTER THE GAME, and check other websites for recaps of the game), already know what went down today…..long before 10:45. I have no problem with you coming on asking questions about how players looked, how the game went, yadda yadda yadda! But if you would’ve acutually read THE STORY, and the blog itself, you might’ve realized that whatever info about today’s game that there is to soak in, has already been posted by DOB.

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

N8, thanks for making that point. I mean, someone really wants me to go back through what all the hitters did today? My posts are in bold throughout the blog, and I mentioned every hitter who did something bit at some point. I also have a note about Escobar (3-for-3)in the Braves notebook.

Sorry, but not going to go over the entire box score of hitters when there were wholesale substitutions throughout the game.

I did it for the pitchers because I didn’t say much about them earlier in the day, other than Davies. And because the question came from an Omaha music-scene person, who must be cool (but i’m sure the person who asked about the hitters is a good guy, too).

By N8

March 1, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Braves fan 202

you asked:

“Ya N8 why did u post as DOB,”

Dude, try and keep up!!!!!

First of all, DOB had just gone off on people impersonating OTHER BLOGGERS and how that would be enough reason to get them banned.

Second of all, If you ACTUALLY read my initial post (claiming to be DOB), that is if you can comprehend the English language, you’ll see PLAIN AS DAY (like the big FRICKIN “M” on the McDonalds signs), that it was SARCASM.

Then you stated:

“you could atleast talk some braves, ive never seen you on any blog say anything with a point.”

Now I absolutely know that you CAN’T COMPREHEND the English language (maybe caveman works for you? Big fan of the Geiko commercials, are you? I’m sure your people are proud). My posts are often filled with endless ammounts of humor and sarcasm. But I’m not sure that my “BRAVES (and general baseball knowledge) credibility” is at stake, with anybody on here that actually knows better.

Sorry if I offended YOU with the D&D lyrics. Hit a little close to home, did it?

By David O'Brien

March 1, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Brad, yes that’s for the spring games. Lemke, I think, will be doing the pregame show again, but not game broadcasts. The Professor (Pete) will, of course.

I’ll be on with Buck and Kincaid (680 The Fan)tomorrow night a little after 6, I think, if more people would like to tell me how my voice isn’t what they expected (that seems to be the consensus every time someone from the blog hears me on the radio or a conference call or whatever).

By Henry

March 1, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Just wanted to say thanks for all your hard work on this blog. Started reading it about when you started writing it. Your stuff is a real joy to this 40-year Braves fan. Really added a new dimension to last season.

Your music stuff is worth reading, too, a bonus. I’m really impressed with the effort you put into this. It’s obvious that you love what you’re doing, and that makes it all the more enjoyable to read.

Been following the Braves my whole life, but I’ve never made it to spring training. Work, the family, lack of funds — you know, life — gettin there just ain’t happenin. But reading your stuff, dude, I can smell it, I can see it and taste it. Thanks for that.

I read your posts, and then I scroll through the rest to find your added comments. Thanks for putting your header in large letters so I can find them without having to read all the knuckleheads calling each other names. Seriously, DOB, that junk majorly detracts from YOUR blog. Your post chiding them for all the lame faux curses and idle threats was pretty funny, but seriously, what a drag that junk is. You’re letting a couple of knuckleheads bring down your very quality product. Wish you’d cull out the clowns.

But putting that aside, I wanted you to know how much I appreciate your writing, and your passion for the subject. Subjects.

Dang. First day of spring training. Dodgers, no less. Bet the sky was blue as blue. Poured a deluge here. Used to say I’d get there myself one day. Take off my shirt, sit in the bleachers, feel the warmth of the sun in early March, watch some ball. Pretty sure nobody wants me to take off my shirt at this point. But your blog still lets me dream about being there. Dude, that’s worth a lot. Thanks.

By Wayne in UT

March 1, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

I really don’t read enough of the blog to know all the in-fighting that is going on.

I guess I will have to quit posing as Reggie Sanders and Brian Jordan when I am posting all alone late at night. Don’t want to get myself in trouble.

Stil think we should trade Salty to KC for Reggie Sanders though, as he is definitely an odd year guy.

(glad to see Davies having a good outing. also, I like Escobar’s upside, and hope it’s not just to trade him.)

Go Braves (Hee-Haw)

By Wayne in UT

March 1, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

Loved the insight from Smoltz on Schilling! My kind of ballplayer….

By Sir Stealth

March 1, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

Concur that the Big River lyric is “bluff.” Nitpicky I know but geography is key to the song and that’s Memphis.

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

Henry, much obliged. Makes it worthwhile, that kind of response.

‘Bout time to get my six hours

By Braves fan 202

March 2, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

N8 chill, some of us are busy during the day and cant get the info til later. What the hell are you talkin about with D and D. That has nothin to do with anything. And if you left the DOB impersonation at the first comment, that woulda been funny, but change your name back you tard. And DOB i wasnt asking for th whole box. Just brief highlights, and dont worry i got em now. But N8 i hope u can see why i was critisizing, i know i shoulve had the info. But is this not a braves blog?

By Jared

March 2, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Why was the headline on this blog entry changed?

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

Henry,

Good to see another 40 year Braves fan. Saw my first game in ‘67. We have two things in common: we both love baseball, and we both probably should leave our shirts on!!!

By Jake The Snake

March 2, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Sir Stealth is correct. It’s Bluff, overlooking Tom Lee Park and the Mighty Mississip. Hometown of the Tigers, winners of 18 in a row.

Mark Lemke will be filling in for Skip on the radio broadcast on 3/3 and 3/4…which can be heard on 94.9 FM, and 640am.

The online broadcasts are available at braves.com. Be sure and listen to the music going into each inning. If you can name all 18 song clips, there’s a prize.

Jake

By N8

March 2, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

DOB

Did you take my intitial “pretending to be you” post down?

Sorry if I struck a nerve, but that was FUNNY, considering what had been going on.

Again, if I crossed the line with my sarcasm, I appologize.

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

BravesFan, it’s cool. Hope you didn’t take my response to be short or anything. But I really did try to go over stuff throughout the day, and I just need to streamline a bit and not spend quite as much time repeating stuff, that’s all. No biggie. Escobar (3-for-3) is the one who really stood out today

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 12:17 AM | Link to this

I would love to see LaRoche slam a vicious drive toward the 1B/2B hole, KJ make a diving stop, and throw him out at first with Thorman making an extended stretch to get him out!

Good for all 3!

By Phillip

March 2, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

Yeah DOB, just ignore all of the junk on here. Some of us appreciate your effort…& I agree with Henry that making your name bold makes it easy on us. I usually skip all of the crap to read your posts.

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

Jake and others, respectfully disagree, and only because I looked at every lyrics source online to make sure. Not one that I found had it as ‘bluff.’

And take a look at this excerpt from a Rolling Stone mag Cash appreciation story by his good bud:

By Kris Kristofferson

… My first hero, when I was a kid, was Hank Williams, and he had a similar energy. You could tell they were both wild men.

As a songwriter, I’ve always loved his lyrics. At the beginning of his career, John released a bunch of powerful songs in a very short time. For me, the best one was always “Big River.” It’s so well-written, so unlike anything else. The lines don’t even seem to rhyme. “I met her accidentally in St. Paul, Minnesota/And it tore me up every time I heard her drawl.” His imagery was so powerful: “Then you took me to St. Louis later on, down the river/A freighter said she’s been here/But she’s gone, boy, she’s gone/I found her trail in Memphis/But she just walked up the block/She raised a few eyebrows, and then she went on down alone.”

Sorry, but I’m gonna go with Kristofferson, boys.

By N8

March 2, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

Braves fan 202

*”N8 chill, some of us are busy during the day and cant get the info til later. What the hell are you talkin about with D and D. That has nothin to do with anything. And if you left the DOB impersonation at the first comment, that woulda been funny, but change your name back you tard. “

I can appreciate you being busy all day. BUT READ THE BLOG, you’ll get your info.

As far as D&D…..READ THE BLOG.

Yeah, I forgot to change my name back. Something you would’ve realized that I appologized for if you would actually READ THE BLOG.

For future reference. Do what most of us do. Enter the blog, scroll down to find the “Bold, blue David O’Brien” at the top of a post, READ IT (this is where you will get the majority of your “Daily Braves Info”), then if anything in DOB’s posts interests you, you can scroll BACK UP to find the posts he is referring to, or just to find out what everybody has been “talking about” on that particular day/evening/wee hours of the morning.

If all the other “topics” bother you, and you are confused by good conversation about music, movies and TV, sarcasm bothers you, or you would just like to read about the Braves. Feel free to frequent Terrance Moore’s blog. If watching honey slide down the side of a jar is your idea of “excitement”, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy his blog.

Good luck.

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the suggestion on McMurtry (didn’t he pitch for us once?). Actually, I use my XM when traveling in outlying areas, but tune in on Sports Talk when not working otherwise. I will check him out over the weekend when I have some time. I work about 50 per for job #1 and teach an online class for job #2 that takes up at least 5 more hours at night per week, so my time is precious most days. I do love to check out your comments though.

Keep up the good work!

By Braves fan 202

March 2, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Alright N8 sorry bout that criticism but i was just gettin p** at the previous bloggers and you struck a nerve, w/e tho i know you make good comments and ill see yall on tomorrows blog, and no DOB you werent bein short with me.

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

N8 Now, now. Don’t let others give you a “mental wedgy!”

By Jake The Snake

March 2, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Weird. I always figured it was bluff..I guess it’s kind of a persistence of vision, but with sound. Plus, (as you’ve probably noticed) any chance I have to work myself into a conversation about Memphis, I take.

I only hesitate to take Kristofferson’s word as bond for three reasons:

Big. Top. PeeWee.

By Braves fan 202

March 2, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

Ok N8 i just apoligized and you still take shots at people. I understand the sarcasm but dont think i dont read the blogs. i asked one simple question that wasnt included earlier. No need to go off about it, i apologized and obviously you dont know what chill means

By Jake The Snake

March 2, 2007 12:37 AM | Link to this

It’s “Bluff” here

and here

and yet again, here

There’s about ten others…and I’ve learned to trust my ears over Kristoffersons.

Jake

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

N8 and Braves fan:

That 5 minute delay is a real friendship killer, huh! When my sons were young, and would get into fights as boys do, I had a sure fire way to make them either stop, or move it out of my sight. I would make one statement: “If you guys don’t give it a rest, I am going to make you kiss each other on the mouth!”

That did it every time. Now guys……

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

I bet DOB is really 6 sorority girls out at Georgia Tech, masquerading as one guy. This is WAY too much for one fellow to do! The real DOB is probably chillin’ out at the ballpark and writing his columns, while those 6 babes keep the rest of us entertained on the blog…..

By N8

March 2, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Braves fan 202

you said:

” i asked one simple question that wasnt included earlier.”

You still don’t get it (please don’t take my sarcasm as anger or hatred - it is SARCASM……nothing more, nothing less), do you?

My “READ THE BLOG” comments have NOTHING to do with you asking DOB a question that wasn’t “included earlier” as you put it.

You were asking about the D&D comment. Had you actually read my previous posts to DOB (one which included the lyrics to a SONG called D&D by comedian Stephen Lynch), then you would know what the “D&D” was about.

I can appreciate you not wanting to read my (or anybody else’s), jibberish conversation that is “off topic” to Braves baseball. But if you haven’t been involved in the conversation (or even reading closely enough to follow it), WHY COMMENT ON IT?

To “inform” you what the comedic song D&D is about, I’ll assume by your earlier comment about “having school tomorrow and taping the game”, that you are too young to have ever played or known anybody who played DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS. It is very similar (but much more detailed) to the Yugi Oh crap my kids play. It has often been a game that when one admits to playing, people assume that you are a NERD that hangs in your parent’s basement, hasn’t gone on a date.

So when others consider STINKY (or whatever name he’s going by today), to be a teenager that has no friends, Dungeons and Dragons has ALWAYS come to mind.

Thus when I asked you if my D&D comment “struck a nerve”, I was assuming you were in your parents basement - is it starting to clear up for you a little bit - or do I need to keep typing? (that last question was sarcasm, btw)

My other READ THE BLOG comment was based on you calling ME a tard for not changing my name back. Even though I clearly had posted a comment MOCKING MYSELF for forgetting to change it back. Another post (of sarcasm) that you apparently skipped over.

I accept your appology, which was obviously (judging by posting times) posted while I was typing my last post. So I wasn’t ripping you again AFTER you appologized. I just hadn’t read it yet.

I appologize to you, DOB and everybody else. Because somehow after mocking everybody’s Jr. High rhetoric with my “Jerry Springer” comment earlier, I have not (without realizing it until now), spent the better part of an hour arguing with somebody (who in all likelyhood is actually in JR HIG - or is Stinky, just trying to get on my nerves. LOL!)

Goodnight all.

By Jake The Snake

March 2, 2007 1:02 AM | Link to this

Great video of Cash here doing “Big River”…

You be the judge of the “block vs. bluff” debate.

I’m saying Bluff.

here

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

sounds like bluff to me in the clip….

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

when I was a kid learning to play guitar (around 1967) it was cool to try to sound and move like JC.

Sounds like bluff to me…..

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

all the streets in Piedmont SC with the name “bluff” as in Pine Bluff Street were streets near the Saluda River with steep hills going down to the river. Big River. Dave, while I am no expert, it does sound like bluff on the clip.

By Wayne in UT

March 2, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

KK was probably stoned when he did Big River……

By Head Coach

March 2, 2007 3:19 AM | Link to this

Yes, Cash said bluff. No doubt about it.

By Head Coach

March 2, 2007 3:25 AM | Link to this

http://www.metrolyrics.com/lyrics/27618/JohnnyCash/BigRiver

By Jasmine

March 2, 2007 7:28 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the Smoltz news! I love Smoltz and I hate for Players to complain about contracts; however, this time with Smoltz I totally agreed with him. Also felt that GM John Schuerholz messed Smoltz up last season by waiting until it was too late to get him some relief. Smoltz carried the team, and was not rewarded until he made a stink. It still makes me sick when I think about ALL of the leads he had only to loose the game when the bullpen took over. I blame GM John Schuerholz,he was wrong for waiting and ruined our chances for another Championship.

This article in the AJC was crappy.

By The Grinch

March 2, 2007 7:49 AM | Link to this

Back to the AWP for the Grinch this morning; maybe I’ll learn something. Braveheart and FBG, thanks for the acknowledgement yesterday; I was too tired to post anything of note when I got back. I expect much the same tonight, and tomorrow night. As for the lyrics, while Kris’ voice ain’t the greatest he has a pretty good ear(and mind) for lyrics; maybe it’s one of those things Johnny changes around from time to time. Later, all.

By C.S.

March 2, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this

I’d like to know if someone knows…..I thought it was ‘she just walked up the bluff’….you know, bluff city.

By Ricardo

March 2, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this

Non baseball post - did anyone else see Billy Joel at Phillips last night? Great show, but the highlight for sure was about halfway through he had one of his roadies, “Chainsaw” come on stage and sing AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell”. Chainsaw is about 6 foot 5, weighs at least 325 and he was awesome!!! His voice was spot on and it was great. Great show all around. You forget how good Joel is till you see him in concert.

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

It’s gonna rain and hail here today, boys (and girls).

Ol’ Rochy might not get to try to take Ol’ Smoltzy deep… (I am SO looking forward to that matchup, given the great relationship those two have).

McMurtry rules. All should own 3-4 of his CDs….

Listened to Cash’s Silver on the way in, love him singing “Lately I Been Leanin’ Toward the Blues” and duet with George Jones on “I Still Miss Someone.”

By 3trees

March 2, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

Never thought there’d be a Blog-O-Bust-A-Dustup over ‘block” vs. “bluff”. :) I didn’t even read through the lyrics yesterday, but I’ve always heard it as bluff, but that wouldn’t be the first time I was wrong about words. As Jake pointed out, it just made so much sense because it locked in the location as Memphis. Oh, well, wrong or not, it’ll always be bluff for me. Loved the UTube link HC. I love to hear the “poing” of the reverb on Luther’s guitar. Block or bluff, what a GREAT tune!

Thoughts go out to the family and friends of the ball players on that bus that flipped onto 75 from Northside. They were, evidently, on their way to FL to play ball. Sun here this morning, but that sort of cast a pall on the day.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 2, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

So little blonde girls are robbing banks in the Atlanta area. It’s so dangerous to travel out of the NYC area these days. I think I’ll stay put and watch some Mets baseball……

By Gil in Mechanicsville (hack)

March 2, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

Good morning all, a beautiful day here in the Old Dominion. I can hardly wait for the first real look at the Braves today on ESPN. Keep the reports coming Dave.

Sounds as if Richmond will have a solid middle infield this year as well as Mississippi. What a good problem to have with all that young talent.

I do hope you have a plan B for transportation while you are down in the land of mouse. Riding a motercycle in the rain has to rank as one of my least favorite things to do in this world.

By D'Marcus Jefferson

March 2, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

I’m tired of Smoltz…he says he’s a Family man…but yet on every available free moment he had on off days, he’s out playing golf. NO WONDER HE GOT THE BIG DIVORCE!

Smoltz, focus on the things in life that truly matter….OKAYYYY?????

I don’t like your “expertise” on the Schilling matter or the decisions made by Scheuerholz. YOU ARE A PITCHER AND NOTHING MORE THAN THAT…FOCUS ON PITCHING…I DON’T SEE A LAW DEGREE OR FOR THAT MATTER, A COLLEGE DEGREE BY YOUR NAME.

NOW THAT YOU ARE SINGLE, GO HANG WITH CHIPPER, HIS WIFE AND HER HOOTER WAITRESS FRIENDS!!!! OH BABYYY!!

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

Lew, Bob and braveheart,

My Clancy, King point was a failed attempt at a point. Don’t get lost in the specifics and miss my point, please.

The point is there are experts in certain fields that are more qualified to judge greatness than the people in that field, often times. Often times players don’t know why they are good or how good they are. Also, they often don’t have the perspective that maybe a historian has.

As I said, do you really think some of the voters, like Morgan and Brett, know as much about Honus Wagner or Marty Marion as someone who’s spent time pouring over information about them?

I honestly am not trying to put down or disrespect Hall of Fame players or BBWAA members, but are we really naive enough to think they are the only ones highly qualified to decide which players are Hall of Famers?

If you think former players and BBWAA members are the most qualified to vote and their opinion of greatness matters most, why even listen to anyone who makes assertions of greatness?

What sounds more smug: “I played the game, so I know greatness better than anybody.”

or

“I think baseball history experts should have a say in the process.”

Seems pretty clear which group is more smug to me.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Here’s an excellent quote from ESPN’s Gene Wojciechowski from a piece on the voters failing to elect Ron Santo:

“The process shows … that election to the Baseball Hall of Fame remains the greatest honor in the game, and highly selective,” said HOF chairperson Jane Forbes Clark in a statement.

Selective? How about highly subjective? And sorry, but when the committee is 0-for-3 on electing anybody to the Hall of Fame in 2003, 2005 and now 2007, it opens itself up to criticism. Maybe it needs to spend a little more time reading the back of baseball cards and a little less time acting like baseball snobs. There’s a difference between HOF standards and false elitism.

By Mark

March 2, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

It seems to me that maybe Schilling wants to retire, and so he’s pricing himself out of the game, or else if he stays in it will be for an obscene amount. Though if he does get 13 mil plus he’s going to have to sing for his supper and perform better than 8-8.

By Valyn

March 2, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

I’m a Braves fan living in Boston, and I follow the Sox too. Schilling is a joke and most Sox fans would agree with me. His sense of self-entitlement is astonishing, and he can’t hold a candle to Smoltz when it comes to being a stand-up guy.

Sox management are all business, and even if Schilling has a good season, they won’t re-sign him for next season. His age and his off-field behavior are two negatives that won’t add up to a positive.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 2, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

good morning bloggers, hope everyone escaped the storms last night. and speaking of storms … last night an impostor posted at least 5 times using jimmy smith’s name. the impostor fought with other bloggers for a time. this morning, many seem to think tht was jimmy smith posting and being ugly. not so. jimmy smith disavowed the impostor’s posts and stopped blogging for a time.

some people are getting testy because their names have been appropriated - well, this has happened to jimmy smith for months with no relief until this week. and now, it begins anew … oh, well, baseball … just how well will yunel escobar have to play to become the middle infield backup this year? if yunel is ready for the bigs it would be good to see him playing for the braves instead of somewhere else.

By Catfish

March 2, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

New to this site, but want to say: “What a great find!!!”

In response to the misguided D’Marc above on John Smoltz: You couldn’t be more wrong. As a matter of fact, his children are coming down to be with him for spring break right now. There has never been a better representative in the community than Smoltz. I’m with the children’s hospital in Atlanta and he personally has been responsible for generating over $1.2 million dollars for pediatric cancer research - through his fundraising efforts and personal gifts. Without fanfare (and like clockwork every Christmas), he calls and quietly spends the day at our hospital, going room-to-room giving gifts and autographs to the kids and their families. He refuses to let us let anyone know about this.

He encourages other Braves to give of their time and resources, as well. Consequently, we now have Tim Hudson, Jeff Francoeur and Brian McCann helping us out now, too. He is a wonderful ambassador for MLB and the Braves. We are very, very fortunate to have him in Atlanta.

Many of us have problems in our personal lives. Ballplayers are no exception, but I know for a fact that John Smoltz is a caring individual and a wonderful Dad to his children.

‘fish

By RedStateGal

March 2, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

DOB, a note to your headline writer — the word you want there is “tack” (from the sailing term) or possibly “tactic,” but definitely not “tact.” Smoltz certainly is not faulting Schilling for being tactful! Aside from this, it’s great to be getting Braves news again. Thanks for the updates on ex-Braves, too, like my old fave Maddux.

By Lew

March 2, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Shaun-Buddy, Dude! Not get lost in specifics? Is that really you are do you now have an imposter, too?

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

shaun, i went a little over the top yesterday with my opinion (as i often do unfortunately).

if all you are saying is that historians should be a part of the process in the meeting, then you are probably correct. there is no right or wrong way to do it. it should be a meeting of the minds with a multi-disciplinary approach to it with the players, the writers, the historians, the stat heads, and the fans. the selection of the HOF members should not be put into the exclusive hands of any one group though. Baseball writers have too many vendettas. The players have vendettas and cronyism and, as you say, lack of overall understanding of the players they do not often watch play. The fans, as we see from all star selections, mistakenly think it is a popularity contest. The historians, left on their own, with the desperate need to justify their existence, will exaggerate the importance of a player or pooh pooh the importance of another player the others all though deserving.

so, if all you merely want the historians to be is just another part of a checks and balances system, then it makes sense.

as someone on here said though, for the most part, they have been right in their selections and nonselections so far.

don’t you think though that santo and blyleven have gained more fame and money by not being included within the HOF than if they were actually in? They both probably want to be in but they are probably not complaining about the rewards, from a fame and financial standpoint of not being included. If they were already in the HOF, they most likely would have already been a forgotten HOF member. But because they are not in, their names are brought up every year.

It is kind of like Pete Rose. Many say Pete Rose does not want to be in the HOF because Pete Rose is making too much money and keeping himself relevant and famous as the bada$$ who they would not let in the HOF. If none of that gambling stuff happened and Rose had never been banned and was let in the HOF 10 or 12 years ago, would we still talk about him much at all anymore? Would he make all of this money off of autograph shows, books, television shows, and radio shows? probably not.

The HOF itself wants the controversy about some borderline people not making it - keeps them famous and talked about as an institution. It is kind of like the teams excluded on Selection Sunday from March Madness stir more interest in the tourney. It is kind of like NCAA football where they do not want a playoff system partly because, like this year, it creates more curiosity and media attention to argue the merits of Michigan, Florida, and Ohio State and who should have been excluded from the championship game. The NBA and NFL Draft operate with the same philosophy. The All Star game selections as well. would we know who susan lucci was if she had been winning the emmys all those years.

as for joe morgan, he was more smug the other day than you, neyer, and bill james combined on your worst days. as i’ve said before, morgan sounded like the worst cliche of a homecoming queen, prom queen, head cheerleader, sorority girl you will ever find.

but, again, shaun. i do like the perspective you bring to the table here. keep bringing it.

as for clancy, king, and grisham, they are far better writers than myself and most on here. i actually do enjoy reading them and probably read their books more than any other novelists out there. but when I am done reading them, their books feel kind of empty to me even though I enjoyed them. i think you have already acknowledged such yourself. in the writer’s HOF, they ain’t gonna be joining Hemingway, Steinbeck, Mailer, Twain, Dickens, et al. anytime soon based upon the work they have put forth so far in their careers.

By D'Marcus Jefferson

March 2, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Man, I want to really appologize for dissing Smoltz….You see, I have no luck with women myself….That’s why me, SJA and Robert are picking out kitchen patterns for our appartment this afternoon. GO BRAVES!

By D'Marcus Jefferson

March 2, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Hee Haw!

By BUSHWACKER

March 2, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Hey Dave, I saw Johnny Cash on TV last night form an old Billy Graham revival doing “THAT RAGGED OLD FLAG”.

Check it out,the liberals in this country really should hear it!!!

By rammerjammer

March 2, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

This is a very refreshing article out of Pittsburgh, about their former closer. Read and smile:

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07061/766231-63.stm

By 2008 is our year

March 2, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Thanks so much for printing the Johnny Cash song. I’ve “sung along” with it a bunch but never knew most of the words. Good Stuff

my 2008 election blog

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Maybe it needs to spend a little more time reading the back of baseball cards and a little less time acting like baseball snobs. There’s a difference between HOF standards and false elitism.
—Gene Wojciechowski

So, if Gene isn’t a voter, he, or she?, will be in a matter of time. Apparently though, it isn’t anyone’s fault but the committee’s for not putting this guy in the Hall? What about all the rest of the voters over all the years? They never seemed to think he was a HOFer. He only once topped 40%. In his first eligible year, the voters, the people who watched him play, voted less than 4% for him.

And Payne, back of the baseball card…
H HR R RBI AVG
2243 342 1138 1331 .277

Sorry Payne, those are not Hall numbers. Maybe the committee is looking at the back of his baseball card. The more I read about this, the more it sounds like a noisy few trying to find stir up a fuss to have something to write about. Odd really, because the writers didn’t vote the guy in either, but somehow it’s the Committee’s fault for not allowing a career .277 hitter with no MVPs into the hall…

I guess it comes down to this… if he’s in there, he would be one of the few many point to as reason to change the voting to make sure to keep guys like him out.

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

You guys will love this _ LaRoche has on No. 96 today. Forgot his jersey. Couldn’t make that up…

By the way, good luck with that idea of getting the “historians” involved in the Hall of Fame vote. It’s the BBWAA’s, folks, and there’s been absolutely no movement toward our group allowing others into the voting process. I’ve heard it brought up at several BBWAA meetings at World Series and All-Star Games. Ain’t happening anytime in forseeable future.

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

DOB: Rain?! This is no good. I called in sick today so I could watch the game. We need to invest in some Spring Training practice field domes. They charge enough for the games…

By Lew

March 2, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

ChopZone-Dude, I actually agree with you about something. It’s a great day to stay in and watch baseball. We’re in the middle of what is supposed to be another 15 inches of snow-on top of the 2 feet+ we already have. Now baseball-How many HR’s was it that Sosa gave up yesterday? Which sub par pitcher you got going for you today? Enjoy.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

braveheart,

The question I ask is does keeping guys like Santo out, for instance, lower the credibility of the Hall? I think keeping a thirdbaseman out that is better than a vast majority of the guys that are already HOF thirdbasemen is somewhat of an injustice and skews the standards.

I don’t think it has much to do with how upset Santo and Blyleven are for not being in, it’s more to do with the standards that have been set and if keeping them out skews the standards.

You could argue that the Hall of Fame is for the best of the best and is more for players like Mike Schmidt or Babe Ruth or Ted Williams but that argument fails because those players alone have never been the standard.

If you let a whole lot of lesser players than guys like Santo and Blyleven in, don’t you think that it skews the standards to keep guys like Santo and Blyleven out?

By BUSHWACKER

March 2, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

I hope the Falcons do good but I have this feeling in my gut the they are closer to the Marion Campbell/Dan Henning days than Dan Reeves and the Super Bowl days.

POINT IS, I do FEEL GOOD ABOUT THE BRAVES, I think alot of the Braves that have been absent lately should start supporting the ONLY REAL PRFESSIONAL TEAM in Atlanta.

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

Catfish, thanks much for the info. Good inside stuff.

RedStateGirl, in this case use of “tact” is referring to a lack thereof, and it’s assumed that folks understand that (which most obviously do.

And it’s a blog headline. No big deal. But we can add “or lack thereof” if it’ll make you happier. I’ll do so now.

By Lew

March 2, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

When I was a kid (yes, I know, that was back when dinosaurs roamed the earth), I had a copy of the 1957 Comeplete Encyclopedia of Baseball (this was in 1963 or so). I couldn’t pass a math class, but I could quote every player’s batting average or win total. I think by the time I was 12, I probably knew more about players up to 1957 than the HOF voters of that era, who actually saw them. All it takes is a bit of research and even the contemporary baseball writers and ex jocks SHOULD be able to figure it out. I have no idea why they haven’t (again, DOB, I know you don’t get your vote).

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

First of all, who said it’s only the Veteran’s Committee’s fault? Sure, they are getting the blame now because they are the ones who have the power now. But there’s enough blame to go around for keeping Santo out and everyone who supports him doesn’t limit their blame.

Santo was a great power-hitting, good fielding, thirdbaseman who was good for 12 seasons. Of the 13 Hall of Fame thirdbasemen, I’d say only five maybe six were obviously better.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

TennPaul,

Santo is definitely in the top 10 3B in baseball history by most objective and subjective measures; probably top 7. There are 13 thirdbasemen in the Hall. Doesn’t it follow that one of the top 7-10 best should be in too?

By Sir Stealth

March 2, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

For any ‘heads out there, not that it serves as any real proof on the block/bluff debate (though probably as much proof as Kristofferson), but the Grateful Dead played Big River live 397 times, 18th most of any song, and Bob Weir sang it as “bluff” every time that I’ve heard.

Number 96? Good to see ADDam’s still his quirky self. Will miss hearing about his antics (hopefully won’t miss his offensive production TOO much)

By dgd

March 2, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Escobar seems to be the real deal. I wonder what the Braves could get for Renteria?

By Lew

March 2, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

The wonders of modern technology. A new headline! Shaun, I saw Santo play and you’re right. The guy was good and should be in the HOF. Most people don’t realize in this era of .330 Batting Averages being commonplace, that in the sixties, hitting .300 on a regular basis was an accomplishment. Every season there were a slew of 20 game winners and only a handful of .300 hitters. In 1967 (I’m pretty sure that’s when it was) there was only one .300 hitter in the AL. Quite different from today’s numbers, without a doubt. That’s why, in this hitter’s era, I don’t place as much credence in a player’s (i.e-Gary Sheffield) numbers in relation to those already in the Hall. 400HR’s today just isn’t the same as when someone from the 60’s accomplished the feat.

By DonCoburleone

March 2, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

“Anybody seen or heard from DonC yet on the blog? Sounded like he had a helluva night/morning…”

I’m alive and well DOB, I appreciate your concern… ‘twas a long night of cards and beer (and a little liquor)…

By Lew

March 2, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

DOB-My wife wants to know why the equipment people didn’t bring LaRoche’s uniform. Why did Raochy have it to begin with? Does his wife do the baseball laundry?

By Ted

March 2, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

DOB-

Thanks for the info on the pitchers, espn.com didn’t give the box score till way late last night.

As for the Omaha thing, I’m actually a Nebraska transplant…I went to college here an never left (92-97)…my Omaha friends were mostly from Bellevue East—actually, I think that my best friend’s cousin plays bass for The Faint (but that may be a nasty rumor). Speaking of Omaha music, did you ever get into 311? They remain my favorite band from this area, no one sounds like them that I know of.

By N8

March 2, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Ricardo

I’m sure Billy Joel would LOVE to hear that you said the highlight of his show was when the roadie came out to sing Highway to Hell. LOL!

That would be pretty cool.

Speaking of Billy Joel. I had a couple of buddies that used to work “security” at the concerts when they rolled through town back in the early 90’s. When Garth Brooks was at the height of his popularity, they said when they were at the arena in the afternoon for soundcheck, he (Garth) pretty much did most of the Billy Joel “Innocent Man” album as his sound check. They said it was pretty cool. If you can use the word “cool” and Garth Brooks in the same sentence. LOL!

DOB

Hope there is no hard feelings about my obnoxiousness last night.

No harm meant.

So is the game gonna happen, or is the rain gonna wash it away? The ONLY thing worse than opening day getting rained out, would be the first televised spring training game getting rained out. :)

By "GOOD " Dawg

March 2, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Hey Smoltzy, you are too good of a guy to even get into this ! Focus on the Braves and your performance and leave all this clap-trap to the media.Despite being a class act, your opinion on an individual player’s contract is only a distraction.Best wishes for for a great season and “thanks for the memories”.Hope this is a year for many more !

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Payne: He was a solid player, but nothing outstanding. His career numbers don’t even compare to Chippers and all the talk is, Chipper is going to have a tough time getting in. Santo has a career 800 OPS. A .360 OBP. A .277 hitter with less than 400 HR and no MVPs (while he was playing he wasn’t even considered the best amongst his peers). He has some gold gloves, but that isn’t enough. Everything about his numbers says, good, but not great. His SLG is below .500 on the career.
If Santo were allowed in, there would be a group just as loud complaining he shouldn’t be in there.

Of the 13 Hall of Fame thirdbasemen, I’d say only five maybe six were obviously better.
What!?! Get over yourself Payne. Go check out those hall of famers and come back here and list the ones Santo was better than.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Yeah. I think that top 7-10 is kind of a conservative estimate for Santo. I’d say most people who study such things would say top 5-8.

Looking at baseballreference.com, Dale Murphy is the most similar player to Santo…and Murph was an outfielder most of his career. So if you support Murph’s candidacy it would seem you have to support Santo.

By Lew

March 2, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

TenPaul-I refer you to my 11:47 post. You CANNOT compare numbers from this hitter’s era with those of the pitcher’s era. Believe me, there is a major difference. The players of today would look like Beltran after that Wainwright pitch in the NLCS if they had to face the likes of Gibson, Koufax, Drysdale, Marichal, Seaver, McClain, Lolich, Palmer, Catfish Hunter, Guidry, Fergie Jenkins and Vida Blue (at least early in his career), on a daily basis. There just is not that kind of pitching now in such profusion. The stadiums of the time were also much larger, with much more foul territory. For crying out loud-Connie Mack Stadium in Philadelphia had a center field wall at 447 ft. from home. Check out the distance of Forbes Field’s left field wall. It was about 380’. Just no comparison.

By robdawg06

March 2, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Its pretty sad that the Braves couldn’t afford $5 million a year for Marcus Giles to play 2B. It was even dumber to let him walk to the Padres and get nada in return. They should have signed and traded him at least. We hear about the great braintrust in Atlanta with JS and BC being the innovators. If you take a look at several of their moves they don’t look that smart. Look at Jason Schmidt and Jason Marquis for starters. getting rid of Jermaine Dye was the biggest mistake they made. Then there’s the Maddux arbitration goof that cost us Millwood. IMO Wilson Betemit should be the 2B this year. But oh yeah, they traded him too for nothing (Danys Baez & Willy “Where My Visa” Aybar). Gonzalez is solid in the bullpen as is Wickman. But trading H.Ramirez for R.Soriano could be another bad move. We’ve had enough power arms with prior injuries to try to reclamate (Jorge Sosa anyone ?). The pitching starved Mariners wouldn’t have traded him if he was really that good. We are trying to compete with the Mets & Phillies. They have no holes in their teams. We have an OF (K. Johnson) we are trying to play at 2B and bat lead-off. Good teams don’t worry if a player can field and hit. But I may be mistaken in thinking the Braves are a GOOD team ? They were good for 13 years anyway…

By robdawg06

March 2, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

I just read the comment about the older era’s players being better than today’s (pitchers anyway). I disagree. Most of yesterday’s pitchers wouldn’t even be in MLB today. The ones you listed would but all those out of shape guys with 14.00 era’s would never get past AA ball. I was looking thru my old cards (1970’s & 80’s) and its amazing most of the hitters even played in MLB. Look at the career and yearly stats on guys like Johnnie LeMaster,Dale Berra,Ken Oberkfell (oops I Fell),and Bif Pocoroba. Stats like .230 3 24 per year. I will agree that pitching had the edge in the old days though. But if you think Gibson and Drysdale would get Pujols,Vladdy,Ichiro,and Bonds out consistently “I want summa whatta you are smokin’ !”

By David O'Brien

March 2, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Good news: Looks like we’re going to play, or at least start on time. Rain might stay north. Wind’s blowing hard to left.

Diaz is batting second, Renteria getting a rest, T. Pena playing short and hitting eighth. Rest of lineup is what you’d expect _ Johnson leading off, Joneses third and fourth, McCann fifth, Francoeur sixth, Thorman seventh.

‘Ol Rochy batting cleanup for Pirates

NEW BLOG IS UP

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Okay, Chipper will be in. 2006 was his 13th season. And if you take era into account Chipper is still better but he isn’t a whole lot better.

Wasn’t considered the best among his peers? He was a 6-time All-Star, five Gold Gloves. ‘64-‘67 was probably the best 3B in the NL.

Here are the players listed at 3B on the HOF website that are worse than Santo:

Jimmy Collins

Ray Dandridge

Judy Johnson

George Kell

Freddy Lindstrom

Pie Traynor

Jud Wilson

Brooks Robinson

Even if you disagree with a few, he’s certainly better than a majority of the 3B on this list, wouldn’t you say?

There, I’m over myself…however I’m not over Ron Santo being kept out.

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

shaun: is the criteria you are using whether this particular player was a HOF third baseman or whether he was a HOFer?

which HOF third baseman is he better than? the only maybe is brooks robinson. but robinson is considered the best fielding third baseman in history. and, yes, i am fully aware that many say his defense was overrated merely because he put on a few highlight reel plays on the biggest stage - the world series - and he then just lived off that rep. not saying i agree with that but i am aware that certain “historians” have tried to rewrite the historical perception of brooks robinson as a fielder.

letting lesser players like Santo and Blyleven in is kind of a slippery slope. if the NCAA lets 128 teams into March Madness, there will always be an angry 129th team who thinks they were jobbed.

if you let santo and bert and hodges in, then there will be next guy who is a step below those guys who starts crying well i was not much worse than them, why don’t you let me in?

and then the “historians” and statheads will justify the inclusion of the even lesser guy because he is not so much less than the lesser guy they just spent countless articles writing trying to justify a HOF inclusion for.

and on and on it goes until rafael ramirez feels free to come knocking on heaven’s door, saying that you just let andres thomas into the HOF, when are you going to let me in? (over the top, I know!).

like DOB said, I don’t see the process changing anytime soon. for the most part, the writers, and the vets committee get it right about who has been excluded. actually, their biggest problem has been who has been included.

For example, Kirby Puckett should not be in the HOF. Because Kirby is in, that creates ammo for me and the rest of the Donnie Baseball lovers to say why is Don Mattingly not in the HOF if Kirby Puckett is in? They pretty much had the same overall stats over roughly the same length of a career. Mattingly was only average at best his last few years. Which tells you how much greater Mattingly was than Puckett from 1984 until 1988. Puckett may have won two World Series titles, but Puckett was never considered the best hitter in baseball for a five year stretch like Donnie Baseball was.

The problem was that neither deserves to be a HOFer. But the inclusion of PUckett causes people to have problems with the exclusion of Mattingly, Santo, and the like.

Thus, as you are saying, the problem with the HOF and the writers and vets is not so much who they exclude but who they include which causes problems about who they exclude. but two wrongs do not make a right, they just further open up the pandora’s box of unintended and undesired consequences.

To be honest, the argument should be about kicking a bunch of HOFers out of the Hall of Fame rather than creating excuses for lesser players being included.

DOB likes to get on bloggers like myself sometimes about continuing to be so outraged by the trade of Betemit because he feels that it was nothing more than a minor trade of bit players. Not to sound like the conceited Joe Morgan here, but on the grand HOF scale, arguing the merits of the inclusion or exclusion of Santo and Blyleven is about the equivalent of me refusing to stop quibbling over my beloved Wilson Betemit.

AS Peter King says all the time about NFL players, he is in the Hall of very Good but not the Hall of Great as personified by the Hall of Fame.

as for Laroche, you got to love that guy. we should have a little laroche box off to the side noting the things he has forgotten like unis, golf clubs when playing with tiger, and to cover first base.

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Lew: I don’t have to compare across eras. In Santo’s day he wasn’t even considered the best in the league. I’m not sure how he can go from that to the top ten in history. And I’m really curious as to who he is better than in the Hall. The Hall doesn’t vote in a guy, per position each year. From what I can tell by the results, voters don’t pull up the player and compare him against his positional peers. If they did, we’d have way more than 13 3B in the Hall. Santo was good, but not better than everyone else in his day. For instance, in Santos day, Mantle hit .300+ for 4 straight years. Santo only once had back to back .300 seasons. He typically followed up a great hitting season with a .250 season. Santo never had a batting title, so he obviously didn’t hit better than others in his day. I understand the pitching differences. The eras and so forth. I just don’t see this guy standing taller than his peers in his day.

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Payne: Murphy had back to Back MVPs. That will carry a little more weight for him. If he had no MVPs, the case for him would be even less.

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

you really can not compare people from era to era by just using raw stats.

you need to compare their home run totals, obp, avg, slg as compared to players of their era and the league average of those stats in their era.

so, if you say that chipper in his overall production offensively is 25% better than his contemporaries, you would compare him to players of past eras who were also 25% better than their contemporaries and adjust their stats accordingly.

so, if in 1950 whatever, the average player hit one home run per 50 at bats, but in 2000 something, the average player hit a home run every 30 or so bats but chipper hit a home run every 15 or so at bats in that year, you would say that maybe chipper in the year 2000 something actually hit 40 home runs but in the year 1950 something, he would have hit only 20 home runs because his performance from a homerun per at bat standpoint was two times better than the league average. not perfect but i hope some get the point.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Okay, Chipper will be in. 2006 was only his 13th season. The only reasons he is questionable is because he hasn’t quite played long enough and people aren’t quite sure yet what to make of hitting stats of this era. But he’ll be in. And if you take era into account Chipper is still better but he isn’t a whole lot better.

Wasn’t considered the best among his peers? He was a 6-time All-Star, five Gold Gloves. ‘64-‘67 was probably the best 3B in the NL—his OPS adjusted for league and ballpark was over 50 percent better than average in those years. He finished in the top 10 in homers in the NL seven times!

Here are the players listed at 3B on the HOF website that are worse than Santo:

Jimmy Collins

Ray Dandridge

Judy Johnson

George Kell

Freddy Lindstrom

Pie Traynor

Jud Wilson

Brooks Robinson

Even if you disagree with a few, he’s certainly better than a majority of the 3B on this list, wouldn’t you say?

There, I’m over myself…however I’m not over Ron Santo being kept out.

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

how are you listing negro league players as players santo is better than? how the heck would you know that? your beloved “historians” are the one who did the research and got the negro league players at least a little bit of their just due. there is no way to compare santo to those guys. that is just unfair.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

I would say Santo’s longevity and his position at least evens out Murphy’s two MVP’s.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Why is batting average the standard for a great hitting season? Don’t you criticize me for relying solely on OBP too much? How about Santo’s power and his Gold Gloves?

By Eric

March 2, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Steve Philips is a moron. He was one the worst GM ever.So why listen to him. This is the guy is brought in a washed up Roberto Alomar and Mo Vaughn. Are you kidding me,Mo Vaughn. He had a huge payroll and he brought in Mo Vaughn.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

Did you read this part?

Even if you disagree with a few, he’s certainly better than a majority of the 3B on this list, wouldn’t you say?

Why do you and TennPaul continue to argue over one or two details in my arguments and miss the main point?

The main point is Santo is better than the majority of 3B already in the Hall of Fame (even if you disagree with one or two of the players, I don’t know how you could disagree with over half of them). He therefore lived up to the standards set by the Hall.

Suggestion: stick to the point, don’t argue of one or two details that don’t really affect my main point.

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

You can’t compare eras, so you not only compare them, but also jump across to the Negro Leagues. How do you know Santo is better than a player in the Negro leagues. Everyone of those listed has more credentials juxtaposed against their peers in their eras. And most of them hold records which still stand today. But tossing in the Negro League players is laughable. I can’t believe you did that.

Smoltz is pitching.

By Shaun M.

March 2, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien, let me first say that I’m from Boston and that I think the Red Sox are doing the right thing in waiting to extend Schilling’s contract. That being said, I don’t like the fact that you take a few shots at Schilling by regurgitating numbers and molding facts to make your point.

It’s true that Schilling has had 2 8-win seasons over the past 3 years but of course you don’t mention why that is. He broke his hand in 2003 and started only 24 games but still had a sub 3.00 ERA. He pretty much sacrificed 2005 to win a title in 2004. Sure he only won 8 games but he only started 11. He was primarily used out of the bullpen. That’s like ripping Smoltz for not winning a single game in 2003 and 2004. There are reasons behind this. Why don’t you man up and state those reasons.

Oh, and he reported vastly overweight? Try 10 pounds overweight. Let’s hold off on the exaggeration. But I guess that’s what you get when you get your info from Bostondirtdogs.com.

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

he is not better than the majority of third baseman in the hall. tell us who he is better than and why. do not tell me negro league players. tell me which MLB HOF third baseman he is better than and why

By Selah, what a f*

March 2, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Hey scribe, stop being such a douche and get your own blog to dump your awkwardly forced and cliched bullcrap. ‘If you write it, people will come’ to the realization you are the most annoying person ever that routinely fights for first on the comments. Stupid douche.

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Santo is not supposed to be voted in because of his position Payne. I don’t think he is better than the guys at 3rd in the hall, but even if he was, it wouldn’t matter. He would have to be better than the rest of the players who played in his day. You go about this like they left out Albert Pujols.

Santo’s power saw him barely scratch .500 SLG. He has a career .460 SLG. And again, he wasn’t head and shoulders above his peers. Set no records. Holds no records. Never voted MVP. He was good. I don’t question that. I just don’t think it’s a travisty that he isn’t in there. I don’t think Santo not getting in is merit enough to abolish the current system and revamp it with a bunch of guys that shelled out a lot of money and passed a test. Who are they paying anyway? And who creates this test?

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul and braveheart,

Take the Negro League players off the list, then. He’s still better than a vast majority of the players I listed, HOF thirdbasemen.

Why do you argue over a couple of the details and miss the point of the entire argument? The main point is he is still well within the HOF range. I don’t see how you can disagree that he isn’t better than at the very least half of the thirdbasemen in the Hall. To me that means he’s well within the range of HOF standards for his position.

Santo ranks 12th all-time in OPS among 3B, 8th in HR, won five Gold Gloves.

He was the 2004 Adrian Beltre four years in a row (1964-1967), with Eric Chavez’s defense. Then was a right-handed Eric Chavez in Chavez’s best seasons for basically the rest of his career.

By TennesseePaul

March 2, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

AWSOME AJ!

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Santo shouldn’t be in because of his position. He should get in because he is one of the best thirdbasemen of all time.

Why do you complete ignore ‘64-‘67, when Santo was pretty clearly the best 3B in the NL? When there weren’t that many great 3B?

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

TennPaul,

Don’t you think one of the top 5-8 players at his position should be in the Hall of Fame when the standards are clearly lower than the top 10 players at the position?

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

shaun, you never provided any sort of support or comparison for your opinion. you tell us he is better than the majority of HOF third baseman but you never tell us why. crying that we focus too much upon the few details you provide does not make too much sense because the devil is usually in the details.

if you say that he is better than all of these guys but then you include negro league players you can not compare them too, how is that any different than the alleged rape victim who says that all of those ten guys over there raped me but then as it turns out six of the guys were not even in the country at the time?

you better believe people will start attacking her accusation by first starting with the out of town guys (the negro leaguers) and then demanding a helluva lot more details about her accusations about the remaining six guys.

The devil is in the details, Shaun.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

TennPaul,

Carlton Fisk doesn’t rank in the top 100 in OPS adjusted for league and park or just regular OPS. Hard to believe he would have got in as a 1B or corner outfielder. Position does matter.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

How many Negro League players are on that list? Two? Three?

And I’ve given you comparisons:

He was a 6-time All-Star. From ‘64-‘67 was probably the best 3B in the NL—his OPS adjusted for league and ballpark was over 50 percent better than average in those years. He finished in the top 10 in homers in the NL seven times! He ranks 12th all-time in OPS among 3B, 8th in HR, won five Gold Gloves.

No other thirdbasemen on the list (even the ones not Negro Leaguers) have a resume like that.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

You are over exaggerating about this Negro League thing. I count three on the list who were negro league players. That leaves five.

I count 5-9 of 13 that may have been better than Santo (probably 4-5 that clearly were). 5-9 out of 13 that maybe were better than Santo. Seems to be like Santo is clearly within the bounds of the Hall of Fame standards.

By Paul

March 2, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

When you talk about Curt Schilling and his record in 2005, why did you conveniently omit the fact that he was coming off of a huge injury to his ankle in 04? Schilling was hurt the entire year and in fact was the closer for about a month or so. I agree he should not have made the demands that he did but they are not much different than Smoltz doing it. In fact, Smoltz did it DURING the season which is much worse IMO.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

I’ve stated my case—only a few of the 3B in the Hall have a resume better or equal to Santo’s; a few out of 13.

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

shaun, i will concede. santo may have been the sixth best third baseman of all time. i just checked out his OPS+ stats on baseball-reference.com. he was clearly better than all of the other guys you named. not quite on the level of the HOFers you did not name. i do not know if that necessarily means he is a HOFer. it just means he is one of the best third baseman. his OPS+ numbers are not on the level of true HOFers like Schmidt, Brett, Baker, Boggs, Matthews. Schmidt and Matthews were like 45% better than the comp, Baker and BRett - 35%, Boggs - 30%. Santo is about at 25%. if you want to let him in because others are in who should not be, then okay. two wrongs do not make a right. but i see your point. the bottomline is if he gets in, i am not going to complain but if he does not get in, then i am not complaining either.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

I could see the argument that he shouldn’t be in if the guys like Schmidt, Boggs, Brett, Matthews and Baker were the standard, but they are not. Guys like that are not the standard at any position. That is my point—he belongs in there because he’s well within the range of what the Hall has set as their standards. He’s not barely in the range, but well within the range.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

Schmidt, Brett, Baker, Boggs and Matthews are just five guys. That leaves eight that were worse than Santo. If you take away the three Negro Leaguers (by my count, I think that’s right) that still leaves five that are worse than Santo. Santo is somewhere in the middle or a little higher than that of the Hall of Fame thirdbasemen. He’s not in the bottom percentile. If he was in the bottom four or five, I’d say let’s not give him the benefit of the doubt. But he’s right in the middle of the standards that the voters have set, so he should be in.

By robdawg06

March 2, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Chipper is a HOFer easily.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

braveheart,

It’s like Blyleven. The Hall’s standards are not Walter Johnson, Lefty Grove, Roger Clemens, Christy Matthewson, Warren Spahn, Greg Maddux, etc. The Hall’s standards are also a few notches lower.

It’s hard to keep Blyleven out when the Hall has let guys like Sutton, Gaylord Perry, Fergie Jenkins and Phil Neikro in. Blyleven was at least as good as these guys and they’re all in. So Blyleven is clearly within the standards the Hall has set. He’s not at the outskirts of the standards but well within them.

By Shaun

March 2, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

robdawg06,

I think Chipper will make it. He’s not clear cut yet but he will make it. He probably has four or five at least pretty good years left in him. He should be right there behind Schmidt, Boggs, Brett, Matthews and Baker once he’s finished.

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

i will give in, shaun. you made your point. santo is the sixth best and if you are the sixth best at what you do over the course of 130 years of doing, you probably should get the recognition. also, at the time he retired, he should have been considered the third best - schmidt, boggs, and brett came later. that’s pretty darn impressive.

Bert though is missing one thing and one very important thing that Sutton, Perry, Jenkins, and Neikro have. whether you were better or not, if you get to that critical HOF number, you are in

By braveheart

March 2, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

oops, i goofed on jenkins. he never got 300. i always presumed he had.

blyleven only won 20 once.

jenkins won 20 seven times! that includes a 25 win season. at their peaks, jenkins was far superior to blyleven. 1967 to 1974 far outshines the perpetual mediocrity that was blyleven. take their ten peak years and you will be ashamed to even make the comparison.

did you ever see blyleven pitch? i did. i watched the last ten years of his career. never once did i say when he was facing my team, oh no good lord, we had better watch out today, we have a future HOFer on the mound. to be honest, kevin millwood is a more imposing pitching presence than blyleven ever was.

By bravjim

March 3, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

Santo definitely belongs, but I don’t think Blyleven does.

By Batman

March 5, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Smoltz didnt have to use the Schilling approach. He had already used his disrespectful “homeboy” approach by namecalling to disrepect John Schuerholtz and try and force Schuerholtzs hand. Smoltz should be ashamed of himself for using his disrepectful tactics in order to get a contract. If I were the Braves executives I would have released John Smoltz years ago when his skills began to erode. Smoltz can barely be effective now and does not deserve a spot on this Braves roster. Smoltz should announce his retirement soon and save us all from his arrogance.