Braves

By MS

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

C’mon Hoss, tell me it’s only minor!

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

UPDATE: they just announced it’s a sprained left ankle, which in Chipper’s case is good news. Anything other than the feet is relatively good news with him.

No word on severity yet. We should be able to talk to him soon, hopefully after Smoltz comes out of game.

By Bubba

March 12, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

That doesnt sound good about chipper. Hope this same sh!t dont happen again this year like is has the last few years. How does smoltz look today an who else is schedualed to pitch

By Patrick

March 12, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Report from Pete on Braves radio is that Chipper has a mild ankle sprain and that he’s day-to-day which should also be Chippers nickname

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Why does Chipper even play in these games? Can’t he just sit until opening day? I mean, he’s Chipper freakin’ Jones for gods sake and this is spring training (practice). In the famous words of one Allen Iverson… “PRACTICE?!? We talkin’ about PRACTICE?!?”

By ssiscribe

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

Left Ankle sprain? Good news indeed. Otherwise, we’d have to bring Schultz back down to Happy Place to talk to Hoss about his bunions.

At least it’s March 12 when this happened. Day-to-day, let him rest for a bit and things’ll be fine.

Man, Smoltz sounded like he was dealin today, gang. Four K’s in four innings, nine shutout innings now for the spring.

And Salty just greeted Randy Flores with a pinch-hit double with two outs in the fifth.

DOB, do tell about the scenery in Daytona.

—30—

By eric the elder

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

Chipper is just envious of his buddy, Hampton.

Hampton: “Ohhhh, my oblique.”

Chipper: “Ohhhh, my ankle.”

In unison: “let’s go huntin’ !!”

By TennesseePaul

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

DOB: Thanks for the report. Such a drag about Chipper. Him going down is bigger than Hampton. When Chipper is in that line up, we score serious runs. He’s gotta stay healthy.

By Lew

March 12, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

DOB-It could be worse with Chipper. Since you didn’t include music this time around, I’ll do it. I just got advance notivce from my music store that a new (old?) Neil Young “Live at Massey Hall” is about to be released. It was recorded in Toronto (homecoming) in January of 1971 and debuts songs released “After The Goldrush”. There’s a new Graham Parker about to come out. also (at least I think it’s new). There. Now I’ve played Journalist for today.

By Sir Stealth

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

….trying not to jump off a bulding after hearing latest Chipper news….honestly though, that sucks - I’m not gonna be a doom and gloom guy - if Chipper’s gonna be out though, my feeling is that hopefully Escobar will emerge and that he’s old and talented enoguh to give him a shot.

By Chop Chop

March 12, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

I have 112 games in the “Chipper pool” this year.

By Sir Stealth

March 12, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

That Chipper news does seem positive, though I know everybody here is skeptical that its not just gonna be one thing after another at this point.

By TennesseePaul

March 12, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

which should also be Chippers nickname

lol. He’d have the longest list of nick names ever.
Larry “Chipper” “Day-to-Day” Jones.

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Sit him until April 1st!!!

By Josh

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

I have always been a huge Chipper fan. Gotta say though, I don’t know that I’ve ever seen a player get old as fast as he has. It’s like he went from 28 to 38 in two seasons. Unbelievable. How about Renteria, Salty, Harrison(or Lerew, Davies, etc.) to the O’s for Miggy Tejada with Balt. paying the salary difference with Escobar at third til Chipper comes back? I know, I know…

By stuckinuk

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

Lew,

I think in light of the injury to Chipper the song portion of today (which DOB sadly skipped) should be Feets don’t fail me now.

How did Smoltz throw, box looked good? How is Francoeur’s patience at the plate? His average looks good.

By StingerSplash

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

Once spent a summer digging ditches for a crew that was headed by a bunch of bikers. They sure opened the eyes of a 20-year-old college kid who rode to work every morning with his buddy in his buddy’s brand new Mercedes. They showed us their pictures of Bike Week. Seen a lot of stuff in this world, but very little like that. DOB, anymore on the battle to be the starting LF?

By Jo

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

Sounds like Chipper is already in mid-season form.

By Chris

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

Here we go again. Chipper milking yet another injury for time off to hunt or play golf. Maybe he should leave town and be a DH in the American League.

By krath

March 12, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Las Vegas Oddsmakers say the over-under on Chipper’s first stint on the DL is 18 games into the season.

By lowermanor

March 12, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Happy Birthday Dale Murphy

Good news, left ankle sprain on Chipper. day to day. Whew.

And for my favorite columnist on the planet, DOB: the last ten songs on KPIG Radio (shameless Plug) out of San Francisco/Monterey/San Luis Obispo. www.kpig.com:

Toots And The Maytals - True Love Is Hard To Find Hans Theessink - Power Of Love Tom Petty - Yer So Bad 3 Twins - Look At The Day Widespread Panic - Ain’t Life Grand Jorma Kaukonen - There’s A Table Van Morrison - Gloria Bo Diddley - Hey Baby Bonnie Raitt- Thing Called Love Ry Cooder - Little Sister

By 22oz

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

Might this sprained ankle be a result of Chipper wearing shoes that are too big for him?

By Coach

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

Is anybody really surprised that Chipper is already hurt ? Not this Braves fan.

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

“I have 112 games in the “Chipper pool” this year.”

I’ll take the under… Seriously though, we should start a pool.

By Steve from OH

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

DOB, what are the chances that Woodward doesn’t make the major league roster? Seems like there are a lot of younger, better options than him for the Braves’ bench (Escobar, Aybar, Pena, Prado, etc.).

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Just talked to Chipper, and he said he’s fine. “It’s not even that sore,” he said. “Just bit me coming out of the box. I just rolled it. Had all my weight on my back side and rolled it.”

Bobby took him out as a precaution when Chipper limped off field.

“I could have played, but Bobby said, ‘No, take the rest of the day off.’

And, Chipper said, “During the regular season I would’ve continued playing.”

He hopes to play tomorrow night vs. Houston, said he needs the at-bats because he feels terrible at the plate right now. But as for the ankle, he was walking on it after the game, already iced down and wrapped it, said there was minimal swelling because he got out of the game so quickly and got it iced.

When I asked him what Braves Nation would’ve thought if the game had been on TV and he was shown limping off, Chipper said, “Holding their breath.” Then he smiled and said, “Or bitching and complaining.”

I told him right on both counts.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 12, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Don C., “NCAA Post” Sorry, scroll through it, bud.

A.J.,

It seems that this year, the SEC and the ACC just beat up on each other within their respective conferences. Nobody really stood out except Florida and North Carolina. So to say the SEC is not a “real conference” is a stretch to me. If you want to talk about undeserving teams, see Stanford. And Florida St., and NC St. did not deserve to get in ahead of Syracuse, Drexel, or Air Force any more than Arkansas did. If you want to bring up who “held their own”, look back at the Hogs vs. Texas. Or the January game vs. Florida. Look it up. Neither one of those team would be a stretch to win it all.

Throw in a pair of wins vs. Vandy, (who beat damn near everybody in the SEC), a win vs. Southern Illinois, Oral Roberts, <—All NCAA tourney teams, and winning that tournament in Orlando early this year, and I think we’ve earned a little more respect than what we’re getting.

If you want to talk about injuries, let me inform you that Arkansas’ hottest player, Charles Thomas, who scored 18pts and 18 rebs the day before, sprained his ankle 90 seconds into the SEC Champ. game and didn’t return. And throw in the fact that Ark was playing it’s fourth game in four days, plus Florida’s starters had played a total of about 40 minutes in two games.

Arkansas underachieved this year, I’ll be the first to admit that. But a friggin joke?,…..I don’t think so.

By ncscoots

March 12, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Just as in the stock market, when the herd rumbles in one direction, go the other…I’ll take 140+ in the Chipper pool. Who gets the money?

By Cairo

March 12, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Prove them wrong Willie C. At least you will stay in the line up longer then Larry if you make the team.

By MBATL

March 12, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, you rode your bike from Orlando to Dayton on your day off? Wow! I heard they have a little get-together in Daytona, and that might’ve been a better choice:)

The Braves said he’s “day-to-day” (arent’ we all?). Amen, brother.

By eric the elder

March 12, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Quick check on the right side of our infield:

Johnson 0 for 4, 3 LOB, hitting .240

Thorman 0 for 3, one DP, 3 LOB, hitting .208

Chipper might be the least of our problems.

By KC

March 12, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

krath, (in response to your post on the previous blog):

There are 3 things constantly brought up as reasons for picking Atlanta to finish behind the Phillies and the Mets:

1 - lack of a leadoff man

2 - Loss of LaRoche’s bat

3 - Chipper’s health

The problem with those prognosticators is that they seemingly fail to realize that only 1 of those 3 things is any different from last year’s lineup, which was the best in the NL.

Yeah, Chipper will probably have substantial down-time. But he missed over 50 games last year, so that’s nothing new.

Sure, we don’t have a proven leadoff man. But we didn’t have one last year either.

The only real difference between this offense and last year’s league-best lineup, is that we have replaced LaRoche with Thorman (or possibly a Thorman/Wilson platoon). We can probably plan on a net loss of about 10 homers and 20 RBI at that position.

That one and only true change is a noteworthy one, but not enough to take this offense from the best in the league to middle of the pack.

The Braves will still finish in the top 3 or 4 in the league in runs scored this season… even with Chipper in and out of the lineup (just as he was last year).

By Bob, journalist

March 12, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

DonC, “*I’ve seen the ratings, Poker has more viewers than college basketball. So does Nascar, UFC, and even the Arena Football league comes close … *”

I doubt it not … but what a sad commentary. Of course, the hype, ESPN, possession arrow and shot clock … I could do without.

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

“Might this sprained ankle be a result of Chipper wearing shoes that are too big for him?”

Good point…

By Coach

March 12, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Horacio Ramirez , 1 win 0 losses 7 innings 1 hit 0 runs 3 walks 2 strikeouts and a 0.00 ERA. This trade is looking better by the minute , for the Mariners that is.

By ElbravoX

March 12, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Javy Lopez career over. Released by the Rockies. His wife will be missed! Corky Miller should be the back up catcher.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 12, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Jeremy—I believe the “dude” you’re looking for looks quite lilliputian, sort of like Pee Wee Herman, but with a bit more makeup on his face, and you will most likely find him lurking under the bleachers!…

By Carolina Lady

March 12, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Visa problems? Why doesn’t he just go to Mexico and walk across the border like everybody else? None of them have any problems.

By KC

March 12, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

JO: “Sounds like Chipper is already in mid-season form.”

Dog… that’s just wrong. Funny! But wrong. lol

By gotigers72

March 12, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Chipper is due an injury free year, if anybody was ever due one. He proved last year that he still has MVP type ability when he is healthy. And it means so much to the Braves when he is in the lineup. I’m pulling for you Larry Wayne Jr. I hope you have a healthy year.

I know he doesn’t have much of a shot, but I was impressed with Harris when I saw him in the only game that’s been televised. He has some serious wheels, which the Braves could use. I hate Pena has no options left. He is stuck behind Edgar. Hasn’t hit much before, but if he could hit consistently in the .270 range, his defense and speed would make him a keeper. I’m wary about Woodward and his .213 average last year, but I know how Bobby values experience on the bench, I think Escobar will end up being an above average MLB player someday SOON. I know Aybar hit over .300 last year, but I’m just not impressed with him. Anybody that’s called out twice for missing a base doesn’t seem baseball savvy. Prado still needs another year in the minors IMO. My personal opinion on who to keep [besides Wilson], as infield bench players would be Pena, Escobar and Woodward.

By Steve-O

March 12, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

That Chipper quote is classic, although true in many ways, its classic.

By Robert

March 12, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

A relatively concrete diagnosis and a relatively minor injury

Far better than if he was day to day with foot pain of unclear of etiology

By Braves20

March 12, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Eric the elder - to update your post. Thorman is now officially at the Mendoza line for spring. Even with Chipper’s ankle, we have bigger problems on the other side of the infield.

By T-Town Dawg

March 12, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

sscribe, where are you with the daily updates? I’m going nuts sitting behind this computer wondering what the Bravos are doing. Can someone give us an update?

By ncscoots

March 12, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

eric, why stop with those two? Try Renteria, McCann, Chipper, Andruw…none of these projected starters are hitting, either. Lucky they don’t tell you to go home on March 15 if you’re hitting .200, huh?

By Renegator

March 12, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Eric the elder:

I hear you man. I have serious doubts about Thorman…

By Fed Up

March 12, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m thrilled to see this team fight so hard in Spring Training. I know that spring wins don’t mean anything, and they rarely have any forecasting value. But when you roll over and die in the spring, it’s hard to come out guns blazing on opening day. We open with the Phillies and Mets, and we have to be hot out of the box. So I like how scrappy this team has been this spring.

By Bob, journalist

March 12, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

MLB.TV blacks out games considered to be within the team’s “market” … Pete didn’t so say on Radio but his remarks suggest that all archived MLB.TV games are available, regardless of market considerations.

If so, it represents a change from a couple of years back. Anyone know if indeed the archived games will be available to all viewers?

By MBATL

March 12, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Anyone drawing conclusions about KJ or Thor based on 20 spring training at bats should also assume that Frenchy will hit .348, Orr .375, Langerhans .364, and Prado .450.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 12, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Doesn’t David Allan Coe do seven or eight shows in a row during Bike Week? At the Iron Horse Saloon, maybe? Am I thinking about the same bike week?

By flange1

March 12, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Hi All,

Lew, thanks for the heads up on the Neil Young and the Graham Parker! man, I still love the Rumour! I listen to those albums and the old Brinsley Schwartz stuff to this day!

Baseball, Chipper will be fine. I an very pleased with the way the Braves have played so far this spring. Other than a few bad outings, the pitching has been great. I agree with DOB that our rotation and our bullpen at Richmond should be in good shape. Langehans has played well, I think it is his job to lose in LF and so far, he has kept the job. At second KJ has been OK and Prado has been good. Should be interesting down to the wire. I guess we will see on Woodward and Aybar, but I knind of like Pena and Prado for IF backups, it won’t happen but it would be cool!

I would love to see the Richmond Braves move Esobar to third, put Elvis at short and Lillibridge at second and watch them grow!!!!

I know we have talked about this before, but if Thorman struggles, we should look at moving Chipper to first. It would prolong his career and could really benefit the young stud Braves IFers…

Thoughts?

By KC

March 12, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

“Chipper is due an injury free year, if anybody was ever due one”

Man… I don’t know. There are two Cubs starters and a certain Reds’ center-fielder that would beg to differ.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 12, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

A teacher was overheard asking a young boy what he would like to be when he grew up—the young man replied, “Well, I have thought about this long and hard, and have come to the conclusion that I would like to be a gimp”. “A gimp” asked the teacher, “Why”? “Well, Chipper Jones is a gimp, and that S#@&%#@% is a F%#@&%&@ billionaire”!…

By Aaron C

March 12, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

When are we going to learn this guy gets paid more to sit on a bench than play the actual game. We can use his salary to compensate for signing a work horse i.e. Andruw Jones.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 12, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Visa problems? Why doesn’t he just go to Mexico and walk across the border like everybody else? None of them have any problems.

YAHTZEE!!!! Carolina Lady wins post of the day.

By brian

March 12, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

ain’t that the truth Carolina Lady

By Braveone

March 12, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, Thanks for the Stockman update! You do such an awesome job in giving us detailed info. I hope that Stockman can get his Visa problems worked out soon & get back to pitching like he did last year. With the late start, he is destined to Richmond. The Richmond relief corps will be absolutely stacked! What a change from last year when we had one of the worst bullpens in basball.

By KC

March 12, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Renagator and Eric: Okay ya’ll… take a chill pill. we’re still not even 2 weeks into the spring schedule.

Even if he doesn’t materialize into anything… Craig Wilson is a pretty good insurance policy, if you really look at his numbers. If Thorman can’t cut it everyday, a Thorman/Wilson platoon will do just fine. Especially for the 7th or 8th slot in the lineup.

By KC

March 12, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

To add to my last post…

One would think that Thorman might be pressing a little bit. He’s got big shoes to fill, and he might be trying just a little too hard. But then again, as I mentioned, it’s early enough that there might not be anything to it at all. Opening day is still 3 weeks away. No need to worry about him just yet.

By eric the elder

March 12, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, I understand your point, and that’s why I said “might.” The players you mentioned have histories that, relevant or not, are reassuring. Don’t get me wrong - - I’m pulling for Johnson/Thorman, but I was hoping for some good signs by this time. Maybe they know they are experiments and are just trying too hard.

By Fisher

March 12, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Lets trade Chipper.Maybe someone will give us a batboy,Or something.

By Bob, journalist

March 12, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

My 3:11 … I realize I’m just a novice at such things … but could someone tell me why my quote, which was surrounded by “*s”, didn’t show up in italics?

By glorydays

March 12, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Does anybody else listen to the ballgames on MLB audio? And if you do, does it bug you that between every half inning they play a commercial of a supposed Braves fan with a HEAVY new york accent. Come on get somebody real on there.

By Falcon

March 12, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Chipper got hurt?!?!?! No way!!!!!

By ncscoots

March 12, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Maybe I’m just feelin’ snarky today, but I’ll take all bets from you guys who think Thorman will be a bust. Either you haven’t seen him much, or don’t recognize his tools when you see ‘em. Either way, I can use the easy money.

By MBATL

March 12, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Assuming that Aybar and Woodward make the roster, the Braves are really gonna have to spread it around in the minors.

In addition to all the guys we’re watching now, Eric Campbell is a very fine hitter who has moved between 3B and 2B; Van Pope is reportedly the best 3B glove in the minors, and started hitting for some power late last year. And then of course there’s Elvis Andrus, who I guess will still be at Class A this year, and Salty.

A HUGE surplus of infielders. I just hope we’ll avoid the urge to trade them for the sake of trading them - that we’ll use it to fill needs (outfield, starting pitching).

By Epinephrine

March 12, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

I still feel fine about KJ (the man has proven he can hit in the past, and he has had flashes this spring) but Thorman looks pretty hopeless at the plate. In fact, he looks exactly like he did last year. I am starting to get a little antsy about having him as a starter.

By Versage

March 12, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

You have to remember that KJ hasn’t hit against real pitching in well over a year. Prado on the other hand played all last year plus in Winter ball. So, I wouldn’t be too worried about Kelly at this point. He just needs to get back into a groove.

By jcfromindy

March 12, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Chipper, Skipper, whatever his name is…he is a crybaby, they should treat his sorry a*. I guess they like him, just like Cox. The Braves, Falcons and UGA Suck!

Go Tech! Go Colts! Oops, we did win the Superbowl baby!!!!

holla

By Bob, journalist

March 12, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

**SJA, there’s no excuse for suggestive vulgarities, especially ones that involve school children and might be considered good humor by same … why spoil a beautiful day?

I’m under the weather you just made me sicker!

By jonathan friedman

March 12, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

chipper needs to get a bonner

By krath

March 12, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

KC

You’re right that only one of the three situations has changed and not necessarily for the better. Offense should still be decent. But even with the second best O in the league last year, they finished down the line in the NL East.

Many prognosticators were willing to concede that the Braves had improved their pen and that if Hampton could have a successful return and Hudson found some old magic… the Braves would be better for it.

On the other hand I haven’t heard many who are predicting that Chipper is going to have an injury free year and contribute big time to the Braves fortunes. The 110 game average over the last couple of years is hangin like an albatross around his neck.

One more thing….. I think most will agree whether the Braves average 2 runs a game or 10…. the team is much better with a healthy Chipper Jones in the lineup every day.

My point was not a slam at the Braves or Chipper. It was just stating what I see as a fact. It’s a bad situation. A player who wants to play yet who isn’t going to remain injury free it would seem. A team who has millions tied up in his contract and couldn’t move him if they wanted.

When two of your big money players are hurt all the time and can’t perform, it should make a team think twice about the wisdom of signing HUGE long term deals with anyone! (Lets see…..great player, almost 30 yrs old…..gold glove… good power and rbi numbers…..dives for everything in the outfield…… body taking a beating…..when will it start taking a performance deteriorating toll???….sign him to a huge multi year deal???…..maybe start doing a Hampton and Chipper DL thing on a regular basis in a couple more years due to wear and tear…..)

oh excuse me… was just thinking out loud.

By ncscoots

March 12, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

MBATL, there’s room…The Whistler at AAA, Lillibridge at AA, and Elvis at High-A is my guess, all of ‘em still at SS.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

CL, keep it down; you’ll scare off my yard crew!

Hillbilly, this Grinch would’ve given in a long time ago if it weren’t for Alka-Seltzer. Best over the counter patent medicine ever. Except for Laudnum, which ain’t legal any more. Heck, you can’t even get Peragoric these days. Gotta go to Chinatown instead and have a pipe. :-)

By Braves20

March 12, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

To reply to another blogger - no, Frenchy, Orr and the others won’t put up the lofty numbers they have in spring training because a lot of that was accomplished against 3A and 2A pitching - the same pitching Thorman has struggled to hit .200 against.

By Thrillhouse44

March 12, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Bob, journalist, put the * on the other side of the quote.

If Chipper’s injury was serious and Aybar was hurt, could Terry Pendleton fill in?

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Scoots, you aren’t like Robert, are you? Crow for weeks about what cowards we are and then disappear when someone steps up and takes it? And no; because I agree with you about Thorman. Just wanted Robert to man up and put that six-pack on the line. Hell, I even halfway agree with him; I just like to bet. :-)

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 12, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Finally!—ol’ Bob’s mask falls off!!…Unbelievable!!!…

By Mad Mike

March 12, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

I gotta defend Chipper: sure he gets hurt, but when he’s healthy he’s as good as there is in the league. And he plays hurt. A lot. Chipper is—dare I say—the ultimate team player, and there is proof of that…monetary proof. From what I have gathered over the last few years, he’s left chunks of money on the table so that the Braves can have more room to work within payroll. All of this against the wishes of the player’s union. There is no doubt in my mind Chipper loves the Braves and will do whatever he can to help our team win another WS. So lay off the “Big Surprise: Chipper’s hurt again” commentary alright?

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

FIRST ROUND OF CUTS ARE DONE: Sent down were a few familiar names _ Saltalamacchia, Gregor Blanco, Brent Lillibridge, Anthony Lerew _ along with catcher Carlos Mendez and pitcher Jose Ascanio, a good young (21) arm who still has some work to do on the maturity side of things….

Lew, good tip on the new Neil Young live and the new Graham Parker. Parker’s on Bloodshot Records now, a great label for his brilliance. That first from-the-vaults Neil live release last year was terrific.

By Dave knockahomer

March 12, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Hey, DOB……SEE any of the Orange County Chopper gang at the bike fest?

oh, man, to be able to afford one of those choppers! [would have to be a well played baseball player fer sure!]

By TennesseePaul

March 12, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

There are two Cubs starters and a certain Reds’ center-fielder that would beg to differ.

I was under the impression that at least one of those Cubs was now a reliever. Cubs needn’t worry. They have Alfonzo in Center. He’ll be great!

By brian

March 12, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

We can slam Chipper all we want (not too hard, don’t need another injury) and talk about trying to trade him, but 1. He is not tradeable - injuries and salary 2. We need him. We need the Hall of Famer Chipper Jones to regain his swagger. Stay healthy and be the beast in September that he has been in the past. Destroy Mets pitching. A lot of talk about 2B, 1B, leadoff, Hamptom, etc., but the talk should be about Chipper. If we have a healthy and productive Chipper Jones (with his former swagger, not laissez faire attitude) we will win our division and go deep in October. If Chipper fizzles out or plays less than 110 games, it will be tough to make the playoffs

By Chop Chop

March 12, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Key to this year’s Braves offense: Jeff Francoeur

According to Baseball Prospectus, Francoeur made 473 outs at the plate last year, which tied for third in the majors. If he can stop making so many outs this year, we might not miss LaRoche or Giles (yeah, even with his down year, Giles wasn’t terrible) as much. Let’s say that Francoeur puts up 29 HRs and 103 RBI again this year. He had a .293 OBP. If he can add forty points to that, he’d be a much more productive player. After all, the bottom of the order would benefit from having a guy on base more than 29 percent of the time. The more pitches he sees, the more likely he’s going to see a mistake. Francoeur can mash mistakes, but he generally lives off of pitchers making that mistake on the first pitch. All he has to do is allow the crappy pitchers in the big leagues (of which there are many) to screw up and he’ll become a true offensive force. In short, he needs to stop being a pitcher’s friend. Now is the time for Francoeur to make the leap.

By Lew

March 12, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Flange-Squeezing Out Sparks was truly a classic. Where is 35 and Clint when you need a perspective? Clint would definitely have seen that if players are having Visa problems, then they should switch to Mastercard or American Express. That’s all. I’ll be going now.

By ncscoots

March 12, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Grinch, I’d even say you should hold the money, but I’d be afraid there would only be empty bottles of single-malt around for the payoff, LOL!

By Renegator

March 12, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop: Excellent Point!

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 12, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

THE SKY IS FALLING, THE SKY IS FALLING Oh? Just a mild sprain? Never mind…

By Bob, journalist

March 12, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

SJA, you know me well enough to know when I’m serious … and that my attitude toward improper behavior is consistent, regardless of offender or my mask.

Truth’s truth and the truth is that I’m really sick and headed to bed.

later …

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Knockahomer, didn’t see the Orange County guys (they were probably there, but it’s so spread out at the Speedway and I only had a few hours), but saw several other bike builders including the hottest name going, Matt Hotch. His bikes cost _ gulp _ six figures. More than $100,000 for most his creations, many of which have hydraulic systems that raise and lower the bike frame to the ground for no apparent reason.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Jackass…lilliputian? Isn’t he the shortstop (multiple puns intended)?

By Josh

March 12, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

No, Derek Lilliputian used to pitch for the Braves. Saw him hit two HR’s vs. San Diego…

By russell

March 12, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Hampton’s money + Chipper’s money enough cash to hire the best center fielder in baseball.

By jwshults

March 12, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

DOB … thanks for the great job you do. And … finally I agree with you on something musical … STEVE EARLE ROCKS!

By Brett

March 12, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Larry ” Chipper” Jonnes is the current day version of Bob Horner. He always has little boo-boos. Come on, he is the most overrated, underachieving and overpaid baseball player EVER!

By alan from Atlanta GA.

March 12, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Could someone on either the Braves or posting here, please explain why Wilson Betimit was traded last year for a pitcher who was either unable or unwilling to pitch and a utility infielder not nearly as good as Betimit. Did JS go to visit the Oracle at Delphi for this wonderful advice?

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

“If we have a healthy and productive Chipper Jones (with his former swagger, not laissez faire attitude)”

Chipper has always had a laissez faire attitude!

By MGL

March 12, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

After today’s game, our probable rotation (6, incl both Cormier and Davies) have a combined ERA of 1.58 after 40 inn, 30 K’s vs 8 BB and 1 HR.

Not bad work!!

Probable Bullpen combined ERA of 4.33 after 27 inn, 16 K’s vs 14 BB and 4 HR.

Bullpen minus McBride and Gonzalez ERA 1.5 after 18 inn, 11 K’s vs 8 BB and 2 HR.

McBride and Gonzo have 10 of the 13 pen ER’s and 2 of the 4 HR’s with 6 of the 14 BB.

Looks like the pitching staff is off to a great spring with a couple of noted exceptions.

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

“Larry ” Chipper” Jonnes is the current day version of Bob Horner. He always has little boo-boos. Come on, he is the most overrated, underachieving and overpaid baseball player EVER!”

Umm, calm down buddy… Chipper has a World Series ring, an MVP, and a career batting average over .300. Now, just off the top of my head, I am pretty sure that JD Drew, Adrian Beltre, Richie Sexson, Scott Rolen, etc. are all making more money this year than Chipper Jones. Are they not more overpaid and underachieving than Chipper?

By steve

March 12, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Bum

By Dale R

March 12, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

PHIL STOCKMAN:

Sneak in from Mexico, millions do it every year with no penalty.

By KC

March 12, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Krath:

“even with the second best O in the league last year” I know this is nitpicking, and I don’t mean to be contentious… but I would argue that the Braves were not the second best offense. The Braves play in a pitchers park, and still finished only 16 runs behind the Phillies, who play in a bandbox. Atlanta also had a better team batting avg. than the Phils.

“You’re right that only one of the three situations has changed and not necessarily for the better.”

There really wasn’t anything in regard to the Braves offense that needed to change for the better. The were already the best in the league offensively. It was all about the pitching, and will be again this year. That’s my point though. When people voice their doubts in this team, they almost always bring up Chipper’s health, the leadoff thing, or 1B. And my point is this… Forget all that.

I’m not saying they aren’t legitimate issues, but they’re not issues that are going to keep the Braves from playing in October. This team will still score runs. They won’t be the best offense in the league again after LaRoche’s departure, but they’ll still finish in the top 3 or 4 in the league (certainly the top-5) in all major offensive categories. Again, 1B is the only thing that’s really changed.

In my view, pre-season prognosticators need to be paying a helluva lot more attention to Atlanta’s pitching than their lineup. If you think this pitching staff will be mediocre at best… then you pick the Brave to finish 3rd. But if you think this staff will be good, then you have to consider them the favorites again in the east (because the Mets rotation is rubbish, and the Phillies off-season pitching improvements have been overstated).

Mike Hampton’s setback really hasn’t changed anything in my eyes. Since the last out of 2006… the Braves prospects of a far better 2007 have always ridden, and continue to ride, on Tim Hudson’s shoulders.

If Huddy’s on (and he’s looked pretty damn good so far… keeping my fingers crossed), then we’ve got to legit aces and a great young lefty atop our rotation. That’s far more than most teams can say. And with this bullpen, it would be enough to once again give Atlanta one of the best pitching staffs in the league.

It ain’t about Chipper missing some games… that’s gonna happen, and we all know it. It ain’t about the offense. It ain’t about Mike Hampton.

It’s about Tim Hudson.

By TennesseePaul

March 12, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Chipper has a World Series ring, an MVP, and a career batting average over .300

DonC: In addition to your fine list there… Chipper is the only switch hitter in history to have 300+ HR and a .300+ average. I guess that makes him overrated too, huh? His only down fall is his health. And hopefully that will be not so much this season.

By big tone

March 12, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

WE NEED TO SEVER OUR TIES WITH CHIPPER JONES. WILL HE PLAY 100 GAMES?SO,ATLANTA WOULD RATHER KEEP THIS LIABILITY AROUND 2 OR 3 MORE YEARS AND LET ANDRUW JONES WALK AWAY WHAT AN IDIOTIC MOVE THAT WOULD BE!WISH DON WADELL WAS A BASEBALL GM AS WELL.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 12, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! chipper has thrown a shoe! oh, the humanity! is this an “ankle sprain” as presented or is this something more? something related to the toe(s), perhaps? (not sure how many - may be just a rumor).

could the toes have twisted in these too big shoes and come unlapped? and how do you get a lap back in baseball? similar to nascar?

from dob: “Just talked to Chipper, and he said he’s fine. “It’s not even that sore,” he said. “Just bit me coming out of the box. I just rolled it. Had all my weight on my back side and rolled it.”

if it’s not that sore why did chipper hop off the field like he had a jack in his shoe? and was it the second toe that rolled? and who will twist chipper’s toes back into a pretzel? will it be a trainer, a coach (where is bobby dews when we need him?), or perhaps a 19-year old blonde?

will chipper need to put his “weight on the backside” again and suffer another roll? what rolled? just what does chipper carry in those shoes besides 4 socks and and undetermined number of toes?

and in other news … journalist has been away from the city for a few days. has grinch gone clubbing in buckhead as reported? and where did grinch find the seals? there are no seals in buckhead that jimmy smith is aware of. yet grinch went clubbing. hmm … and how does grinch know these were not homeless people who merely looked sealish? and baby seal does not approve of such behavior.

now, crows … are back in coastal carolina and an expert marksman is awaiting. might say she has gone a huntin’.

and if deep in the woods chipper experiences a roll such as chipper experienced on the baseball field today what provision is there for chipper to hop to camp? or to the truck? or must he be put down?

now, baseball … a healthy chipper jones appears less likely than ever. apparently milkshakes and cheeseburgers have not fortified the body of chipper jones. does this mean a healthy, young infielder will make this team at the expense of another position player?

and if chipper returns to the field and favors the ankle will chipper strain the oblique? and if the oblique is strained how long will it be before the toes go?

those who have pondered why there are so many journalists on this blog must be reminded that in addition to dob, carroll rogers, and ssiscribe - all professional journalists - we have many other journalists who must from time to time fill in. can never have too many journalists around unless the journalists have been eating cheese. also best to avoid riding an elevator with journalists. selah.

-2- toes, maybe more.

By TennesseePaul

March 12, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

Sneak in from Mexico, millions do it every year with no penalty.

This could help the Braves as well. They could then pay him “under the table” and avoid all the taxes. And they wouldn’t have to declare him on the “official payroll” or for that matter “Roster” allowing for a “26th man” on the team. That’d be some real pitching depth.
Stockman himself wouldn’t have to pay any taxes. And he could have his kids go to school here for free! I’m sure we could find a way to get him on unemployement while we’re at it to help supplement his income.
The draw back would be the constant chase from the Feds all around the country, from one MLB city to the next, trying to catch an extremely large, hard to hide, Aussie. The post game exits would resemble a Benny Hill sketch. His entrance music when called on from the pen could be the Benny Hill theme song.

By brian

March 12, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

I still think the key is Chipper. Not only his bat but his presence. When he was destroying the Mets a few years back, there was no doubt in anyone’s mind that we were going to win. The bigger the at bat, the bigger the result. His performance against the Mets was a continuous highlight.

Smoltz will be Smoltz. James will continue to improve. I expect Hudson to improve, or at least not regress further. Cormier will be solid, not spectatular, and Davies could be special if he ever puts it together. A healthy Hampton would be nice, but Redmon, like Cormier, will be solid, not spectacular. I am not worried about the starters.

Bullpen best in years.

Offense- Edgar is a top number 2 hitter (and not bad for a SS), McCann is a top hitting catcher. Francouer will continue to progress. AJ should have a banner year since he is playing for a contract. Yes there are big question marks at LF, 2B, and 1B, but we also have many more than capable options there.

The Braves need a leader on offense. Somebody who can step up to the plate and deliver and lead this team. That man needs to be Chipper. Chipper needs to decide he is going to be the man and then deliver. The young players WILL feed of that. If Chipper steps it up and stays healthy (especially 130-140+ games) watch out NL.

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 12, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul.. He would have one huge disadvantage. He would have to learn “English” as a second language. His accent would be a dead give away.

By the hawks r cursed for trading Nique

March 12, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is good to go…bobby should have him throwing no more than 3 innings to help preserve his arm!! And please dont play chipper much this spring and get him hurt!! Go Braves!!

By the hawks r cursed for trading Nique

March 12, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

I just heard that the rockies let Javy Lopez go……wow wouldnt that be a awsome bat to have on the bench and as the backup catcher!! and a former fan favorite!! And we could have him for cheap 2…..BRAVES PLEASE BRING BACK LOPEZ!!

By Wayne in Utah

March 12, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

are you kidding? Stick a fork in Javy, ‘cause he is “done”.

By TennesseePaul

March 12, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

Gil: I don’t know, the accent might confuse the agents quite a bit.

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 12, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Javy Lopez’s was release today from the Rockies. He said he would not go back the American league and would retire before signing as a back up on another National league team. He also said money was not an issue. The exception was he would be willing to play as a back up catcher for *The Atlanta Braves *. He was hitting .375 this spring but had failed to throw out any runners attempting to steal.

By Coach

March 12, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

All you music aficionados ever heard of Amy Winehouse http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RP0MP3FXnFw

By TennesseePaul

March 12, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

Of course, he could just try to blend in with the other illegals. He could grow a mustache and say things like “Hey chancho! Where have you bean? I’ve been waiting here since Easters” so he wouldn’t stick out in a line up.

By Maine Braves fan

March 12, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

Do you think DOB that the braves would offer J. Lopez a contract to be a back up catcher or a first baseman?? I was wondering if he had anything left i his tank. He was quoted by saying that he would like to come back to the braves as a back up catcher.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Back from nap. Good one Josh, and 10Paul too (though now I’ll have the Benny Hill theme in my head for weeks…where’s a little old bald guy to smack on the head when you need one?). All hail the return of Jimmy Smith! Some toe journalism was sorely needed (DOB’s report was too cryptic). Please inform Baby Seal my clubbing expedition was an undercover attempt to bring down a ring of PETArds who’d been pestering good money-paying citizens at the aquarium and circus recently. Clubbing is good bait for such people, and we actually clubbed short, fat tax collectors dressed in seal costumes. Also, if you would, ask him if he’s done fixing the carburetor on my weed-eater; Spring is nigh approaching.

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

If Javy Lopez, or as I called him, “J-Lo”, wasn’t on steroids when he was with the Braves then I am not a human…

By mike

March 12, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

We should send Chipper down. I bet his feet would have an amazing recovery in about two weeks. He is worthless. Bring in a solid glove and a 212.00 average and I will take my chances. We still finish fourth in the division this year.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Coach, I don’t know; her legs are a bit short. :-) Time to fire up the grill.

By Jeremy

March 12, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

I was at the game today…and sitting in the LF corner, behind the Braves bullpen. Some interesting tidbits from being right on top of the players: I tried getting Chipper’s autograph as he walked off but said he had to go ice his ankle. I didn’t think it was too serious at 1st because he limped straight to the dugout instead of stopping altogether, plus the bullpen was joking w/ him as he walked to the clubhouse. BTW, Chipper fouled a ball off his ankle previous to pulling up…wonder if that had something to do with it?Smoltz looked pretty dominant…again. Prado signed more autographs than anyone…he seems like a real nice kid. Peter Moylan gave Salty a “wet-willie.” Salty had about a dozen different people come up to him to talk to him (he grew up near Jupiter). Salty’s dad was very proud of his son’s opposite-field double off a solid reliever, Randy Flores. Scott Thorman must have left about 10 runners on base today. With 1st base open and a lefty-lefty matchup on deck, Molina and the pitcher met at the mound, and then Frenchy swung at 2 straight pitches in the dirt…he then got lectured by Pendelton. I got McCann’s autograph and was THRILLED. He was real nice. Great seeing the Braves today…I don’t get to many chances living down here!

By Wayne in Utah

March 12, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

Why do we need a washed up J-Lo when we have our own new, up and coming, Bray-Pen?

By KevinM.

March 12, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

There are 4 keys to the Braves this year. 1. The Bullpen which is 500 % better than last years debacle with whomever was there. 2. The Jones boys — Chipper has to be heathly — hit his customary 30 hrs and 110 rbis and Andruw is going to be signed to a long term contract that makes him a Brave for life !!! 3. Tim Hudson — has to have a comeback year like we are used to when he was in Oakland. 4. Kelly Johnson — JUST CATCH THE BALL — which I know he can do when he was taught by the smoothest fielder I have ever seen in Glenn Hubbard. Cant opening day start like next week I am tired of this practice !!!!!! Go Braves

By Braves fan 202

March 12, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

I know its only minor, but it shows the true chipper. Im sick of this, its minor this time but it just guarentees he will get seriously injured. When…i dont know, but it will happen. These braves could go all the way if he could just STAY HEALTHY!!

By OutSideAgitator

March 12, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Will they have2amputate his laig? Will it be healed n time4season opener?

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Let me think,should I post concerning how an existing injury can cause a seemingly unlated injury by altering mechanics? Now what type of preexisting condition might make a player push harder than normal off the back of the foot? So should I post on this subject? let me think ? ? ? ? ? I think not.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 12, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

I was referring to the little lilliputian in Jeremy’s sights—I hope my use of “lilliputian” didn’t offend any members of the moral majority that usually hang out on this blog!…oh well…

By DonCoburleone

March 12, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Plus we’ve already got B-MAC, oh yeah!… Why don’t we call him that anyway?

By Robert

March 12, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

Y’all talk about it as if Chipper WANTED to get hurt.

It’s a minor injury in spring training. Re-LAX

568

By Oddjob

March 12, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Mike Some people would rather curse the darkness that search for a light.I posted concerning Chippers chronic problems and possible solutions recently.Certain effete(pardon the pun) bloggers fiddle de de’ed it.But Mike really, to strike out at Chipper about something he can’t control is just bad form.

By pompousN8

March 12, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

To all those praising Chipper for the numbers he’s put up over his career (and they are justified), I’ll give you the ONLY numbers that matter.

Over the last 3 years, he has been in an average of 118 games per season, while hitting .286, averaging 25 HR’s and 84 RBI.

Ladies and gentleman. That’s a trend. That’s the new “norm”, it IS what is to be expected from him, NOTHING MORE, MAYBE LESS.

He’s not getting any younger, and he surely isn’t gonna solve his foot problem by wearing 3 pairs of socks, IMO.

It’s just time to face facts. He’s on a fast track to the end of his career. JS best be hangin onto Escobar and Aybar, becase one of them IS going to replace Chipper for an extended period of time this year, the other will need to be the backup.

Chipper has been great, he’s a fan favorite, and next to Smoltz, has been the face of this team for more than a decade. But just as Joe Montana’s time had to end in SF, Chipper’s is coming to an end, probably sooner than he (and us) would like it to.

Not saying Escobar is going to be the second coming of Chipper for the long haul, but let the kid play.

As for the poster who made the RIDICULOUS statement about Javy being on the “juice”. ARE YOU KIDDING ME????

Him, Bonds, Sheffield, Sosa and McGwire all had the Bowflex System. Get real. (LOL!)

Thought it then, and haven’t seen ANYTHING to make me think otherwise. Guilty until proven innocent for all of them I say.

By pompousN8

March 12, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Robert

You act as though, Chipper has NEVER had a foot injury, an ankle injury, or any other nagging injury that has kept him out of the lineup. Similar to the NBA’s Grant Hill, Chipper NEVER used to be injury-prone either. But once it starts…..good luck with that.

If you truely believe that Chipper is not getting a head start on his MANY trips to the DL this year, I’ve got a scouting report on how Nick Esasky’s rehab from vertigo is going.

When asked recently, Bobby and JS both expect him to make a FULL recovery and “most definitely” be in the mix at 1B this season.

By Yars

March 12, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Nobody should be surprised about Chipper’s injury. Something was going to happen sooner or later. I am not too worried about his ankle. Opening Day isn’t for another 3 weeks. I only hope this isn’t the preview of coming attractions though. Regarding Scott Thorman, I think he is trying too hard this spring. If he should falter, it’s nice knowing Craig Wilson can fill in. Kelly Johnson needs to relax too. His bat is cooling off, but he seems to be doing a good job at 2B.

By jcdocpc

March 12, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

I THOUGHT ‘CHIPPER’ WAS A NICK NAME

By Greg in TN

March 12, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Evening folks…

The number of people ready to throw Chipper under the bus just amazes me.

Another solid four innings from Smoltz today. Villareal and Colyer also threw scoreless stints. Yates and Moylan looks to have had good outings as well except for the Cardinal’s version of the wild thing, Rick Ankiel (couldn’t resist, although it is good to see the guy doing well after what he’s been through).

DOB, the cuts seem to be in line with what I was anticipating, so no big surprises in learning the fate of those starting the season in different locales other than Atlanta.

What I liked seeing today was TJ Bohn’s two out RBI single, Pete Orr’s stolen base and McCann and Frenchy both going 2 for 3.

What I didn’t like seeing today was Chipper leaving with the ankle sprain (although I am glad he’s day-to-day), Corky Miller’s passed ball and Kelly Johnson and Scott Thorman leaving 4 on base each. Both seem to be in a little funk right now at the plate. Hopefully they’ll work their way out of it, and it’s still early.

By pompousN8

March 12, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

I want to make one thing clear, as to not get thrown into the mix of people “wanting to throw Chipper under the bus”.

I still LIKE Chipper. One of my favorite Braves EVER. So was Dale Murphy. So was Steve Avery. Murphy was older and his talents were in decline. It was PAINFUL to watch, but inevitible. Steve Aver was still VERY YOUNG and had a bright future ahead of him, but injuries (of the nagging, re-occuring….lead to other injuries and problems, type) cut his career short, just like many other promising careers shortened or prolonged at a substandard pace (substandard to the player - since the injuries cause the player to NOT be as productive as they and others, know they are capable of).

Now for me, Chipper falls somewhere inbetween Avery and Murphy. He obviously has had a lengthy, successful career already. But it could be even LONGER and MORE successful, if the injury bug, would stop biting him EVERY YEAR. He’s not getting any younger, and certainly not getting LESS likely to get injured.

I believe his numbers (when in the lineup), show that he can still play at a VERY HIGH LEVEL. But an injured player with talent is almost more frustrating (for the fans), than a guy with no talent. Because if Chipper had NO TALENT left, he would just be released (and his contract swallowed by ownership), or relegated to the bench as an overpaid backup. But when you have a middle aged veteran, with a fair ammount left to “offer”, who is signed to a HUGE contract, and also happens to be a fan favorite, the “what to do with/about” his roster spot becomes very greyed.

It’s similar to the Hampton situation, really. All we can do (right along with Bobby and JS), is wait, take what we “get” from him, and enjoy watching him play, when in the lineup.

I’m to the point as a fan, where I’ve stopped allowing myself to say (and I’m sure I’ve said it a few times this off-season)….”if Chipper stays healthy……..”. He’s NOT gonna stay healthy, and he cannot be relied upon to play in over 110-120 games this year, or any year in the future, IMO.

Am I a doctor? Nope. Do I have proof? Nope. But the last three years don’t lie. He has said it himself. Without surgery, the foot will continue to bother him. Yet he can’t have the surgery, due to doctors telling him that there is NO GUARANTEE of him being able to be as mobile as he’d need to be to continue being a MLB player. So his options are as follow:

1) Have surgery, and solve the problem, but possibly be done playing.

2) Retire and have the surgery. Then if when he recovers from the surgery, he feels he can run at the level he needs to, make a comeback.

3) Deal with it. Play all out, like he always does, and wait for it to be too painful to play on, and hope the Braves have a reasonible option backing him up.

As much as EVERYBODY on here has stated how crazy it would be to lock Andruw up for a bunch of money, taking upwards of 20 percent of our payroll up, the ONLY thinkg more crazy than having one guy take up about 20 percent of your payroll, is to have a guy take up about 10-15 percent of your payroll and being available for only about 70 percent of the games your team plays over a 3 year period. YIKES!

This long, drawn out post by PompousN8 was produced by “Talking to yourself Productions”, and was brought to you by Chloraseptic because……”when you talk too much and can feel it”, Chloraseptic is there.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Ahhh….ribs are a good thing. Y’all, please chill out about Chipper. I understand everyone being a bit gun shy due to the past, but rolling your ankle is not that big a deal; it’s not like he’s had ankle replacement surgery and this proves it’s not coming along well. For that matter, Hampton will be fine too, when it counts most. This is not a cursed franchise; we used up several years of bad luck last season. It won’t happen again. Thrashers up 3-1.

By Wickman Fan

March 12, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

My bet in the office pool is Larrrryyy (Chipper) Jones will play LESS than 100 games this year.

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 12, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

someone already said it, but i’ll echo the sentiment:

happy birthday to one of the greatest players to ever don an atlanta braves uniform, Dale Murphy.

By AdirondackDave

March 12, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

DOB — My wife and I were at Roger Dean Stadium today in Jupiter for the Braves-Cards game. I couldn’t believe what I saw in the first inning when Chipper limped back into the dugout. Told my wife, this foot thing could be career-threatening and, for the first time, was fearing that this time next year we could be Jones-less. Great to hear that it’s just a mild sprain.

A comment and and question, DOB. I thought Smoltzie looked GREAT. If the season started tomorrow he would say “gimme the ball.” Here’s my question… I saw a writer-type in tan slacks behind the case during batting practice talking to Langy for a few minutes and then Hubbard for quite a while. Was that you? Figured you were getting the latest on Johnson and the second base situation. I was disappointed I didn’t get to see Andruw!

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 12, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

I don’t know who here visits mlbtraderumors.com but they posted a very intriguing article about Cubs scout being at the game between the Blue Jays and Braves Saturday. Now, why a scout was there is unclear but many are speculating the Cubs were there looking at Salty or one of the other Braves prospects. Perhaps, some of the infield guys. Wade Miller could be on the block, but I don’t see where the Braves would need him now that they have Redman. I think the Cubs want to unload Jacque Jones and could have been there looking at Diaz or Salty or Escobar.

By Greg in TN

March 12, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Hey N8,

My post wasn’t directed to you, and I respect your opinion. Most of the time, my opinions match yours, just not on this subject.

I don’t think the ankle injury is as big a deal as the ankle injury he had last year in San Fran, and I think he still has the opportunity to be productive at 3B.

I’m not a doctor either, and for all I know, I could be wrong, very very wrong. And if I am, hey, I’ll admit it, in big bold font if everyone wants. However, when Chipper is healthy and playing well, this club plays well. If AJ and Smoltz happen to leave the team after this year, we will be hurting for veteran leadership in a very big way.

Nothing’s guaranteed, however IMO, we are a stronger team with #10 playing 120 games than having a lot of other guys at third playing 162.

By Josh

March 12, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Let’s see…

Francoeur and McCann are raking away while Chipper’s back on the shelf. We have so much young infield talent we don’t know what to do with it. It’s pretty simple, folks. The torch is being passed before our eyes. As long as the pitching remains solid (and no reason it shouldn’t) , does anyone believe the following team couldn’t compete next season?…

2b Johnson/Prado/Lillibridge??? SS Escobar C McCann CF Francoeur 3B Chipper/Aybar LF Diaz RF Langy 1B Thor

I’m guessing this team would be in the top half in runs scored. Let Chipper play out the string and be a vocal leader. On this team he’s like the old wise man. What a farm system. And for what it’s worth, those who look at the above prospects (not to mention Harrison, James, Davies, Lerew, etc.) and still insist on criticizing Schuerholz and the personnel department he runs, well, I guess you just can’t please ‘em all…

By ssiscribe

March 12, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

Quick hitter before hitting the hay:

— I know everybody in Braves Nation was given cause to pause when Chipper stumbled out of the batter’s box. Fortunately, it’s not Hoss’ problematic feet, so everybody chill out. A slight ankle sprain and nothing else; heck, Chipper may play tomorrow night.

— T-Town Dawg, wish I could’ve been giving more updates, bro. Had my own fish to fry and so forth. I’ll be all over it tomorrow night, but then again, all of us will be … the game’s on TV. Will be my first look at the ballclub; looking forward to it.

— Grinch: Le Thrash, man, back in first! Actually bought some playoff tix today. Nice win tonight, indeed.

— DOB, I’m seeing so many people swear off KU, I’m now actually thinking about taking them to the Final Four in Atlanta. And if KU ends up playing for the national title, any chance Carroll will just so happen to draw the opening-day assignment in Philly?! I know probably not; the Bravos are your beat. But at least if KU’s in the title game, the Braves play that day and you’ll be done by tipoff.

Speaking of done, I’m outta here, leaving it to the denzines to hash out. In keeping with my commitment to get as much sleep as I can in March, peace out.

The Scribe abides.

—30—

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this

Thrashers win 4-2 and the Force pull one out in the last minute to go 2-0 (though all arena games go down to the last minute, really). Thrash are now third in the conference. Yee-haw. Robert, you reappeared but didn’t comment or e-mail me yet. Voton1066@yahoo.com.

By Greg in TN

March 12, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Thank you Daybed Wagmoe and Lowermanor for the reminder.

Happy Birthday #3

By pompousN8

March 12, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Greg in TN

I can live with that. I do HOPE you are right and I’m wrong.

You said:

“…we are a stronger team with #10 playing 120 games than having a lot of other guys at third playing 162.”

You are also probably correct here as well. But the day isn’t too far away, when this statement WON’T be true either. But for right now, you are right.

I just worry, that he won’t be close to 120 games thi year. I’m thinking 80-100 is about what we can expect of him.

I hope I’m wrong.

L8R

By Lew

March 12, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

Has anyone noticed that DOB just posted a story saying Chipper should be in the lineup tomorrow? Everyone’s having conniptions about how he is falling apart and he won’t even miss a spring training game. Besides- Chipper playing 3/4 of a season is equal to or more than most players playing a full year. Calm down. Go center your collective chi. All is still well.

By Braveheart

March 12, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

lay off chipper. he is 35 years old. this is what happens to guys in their early 30s (injuries, slight slippage), leading up to a noticeable decline at 35.

between 30 and 36 years old, it happened to justice, ripken, dale murphy, mickey mantle, don mattingly, willie mays, bernie williams, will clark, robin yount, george brett, joe dimaggio, kirby puckett, ken griffey, jr., jim rice, ron santo, and on and on and on.

first little injuries, big injuries, slight decline, big declines, what have you.

that is one of the things that made hank aaron a one of a kind freak of nature in that he was naturally able to avoid that and essentially average 30 home runs for 25 years of playing.

I think the steroids era has spoiled too many fans. We have all become just a little too accustomed to guys excelling well into their late 30s and early 40s. that is just not reality or the way it should be.

Thinking back to when I was a kid, that was unheard of. Guys like Nolan Ryan were freaks (at least I hope he was a natural freak). Now guys like Nolan Ryan excelling even into their 40s is just so darn commonplace.

I love Andruw. Wish they would just pay him because he is my guy and I want to keep him. But when you really think about it, just looking at Chipper and all of the other guys i mentioned above, wouldn’t it be a really stupid move to commit a bunch of money to an overweight guy who spent ten years playing like a fearless daredevil and who over the last ten years has started to complain physically about the effects of the abuse his body has endured as a result of his style of play (and honestly his fleshiness as well)? He has been durable as heck but, just looking at Chipper and all of those other guys and many others, you can see that eventually he will be hit with a chronic injury bug and declining performance by the end of his long term contract as well. But I am preaching for the most part to the choir on that.

So, my point is to just lay off Chipper. He is trying his hardest. Just reading what his response was to what DOB said above, it seems like he cares and knows exactly what we are saying and how annoyed and disappointed we are before we even say it. From what he was saying, I get the feeling that he said that because if he was a fan, he knows he would be voicing the same concerns as the fans.

This is just the sort of thing that happens with older players. It breaks your heart and annoys you but before the steroid era, this was just reality.

So, lay off Chipper already.

By Greg in TN

March 12, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

N8,

Hey, I hear you. I hope I’m right too. And I know where you’re coming from, nobody’s getting any younger.

Have a good one.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Amen, brother Scribe; wish I could afford playoff tix as well. I might anyway, and just drink cheaper beer. :-) Good lord, Nate; 80-100 games? Dude, I got a 20 right now says he’ll beat 100 games. My e-mail’s above.

By a monotti

March 12, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

C Jones has been the most hurt player in the history of the Atl Braves.

Its unbelieveable the Braves have not unloaded this guy by now. How old is he anyway, 42.

Chipper can sprain a ankle running out a bunt . The term superstart went to his head early and he never recovered.

C Jones has been coasting for years.

Geez Louise. Cut this dead weight loose.

By Carroll

March 12, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Grinch: regarding Arena Football—I can’t really get into it, but they have a rule that I LOVE and wish the NFL would consider adopting. In the closing minutes of games, when the winning team is trying to bludgeon the clock, they MUST gain at least one yard to keep the clock running. This rule would certainly be something to keep NFL fans watching all the way to the very end of games.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 12, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

sore toes. could sore toes make one come out of the box with all the weight on the backside? the side without toes? well, the side with fewer toes maybe. hope there are no toes on the backside but something must be wrong. could just be rumors. has anyone looked inside those special shoes? and how many reinforced toe areas are there on the 4 socks? front and back? oh, the humanity! and to grinch who used the words “sorely” and “toe” in the same sentence - very nice journalism. and baby seal says grinch needs a new weed eater - cheaper to replace than fix. bad toe gasket and crack in the assembly. and how did carroll rogers like the blog? think carroll rogers will come back? does carroll rogers do toe journalism? many questions. now, baseball … if thorman continues to disappoint might we see james jurries again? or perhaps kelly johnson should play first and let prado have second. hmmm…

By someone

March 12, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Dammit! Chipper is on my fantasy team! There goes my ten grand!

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Carroll, that rule is in place because there are so many other ways in AFL to milk the clock…true football fans like the extra time! Shame on you. As a purist, though, it’s hard for me to get into the AFL as much, either. Not enough defense. They are boys to the NFL’s men, but still better than college basketball (that should get a response or two).

Jimmy, glad you caught my pun. We amateurs must do what we can when the pros are busy. Crack in the assembly? Oh, the humanity! Has Marion Barry run for office again? (Rim Shot). Thank you, thank you; I’ll be here all week.

By Braveheart

March 12, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

actually a monotti, chipper has not been the most hurt player in the history of the atl braves. (nice grammar BTW).

actually a monotti, chipper can’t sprain an ankle running out a bunt because why the heck would he ever bunt? He’s too good to waste his bat doing that and, as Robert loves to exaggerate about, his manager does not like to bunt for the most part.

BTW, a monotti, the mets suck! your last name gave you away. with that last name, the a can only stand for one of two things: Anthony or Angelo. Which one is it dweeby Mets fan?

You are right about the superstar thing going to his head though. All those pimped out rides he rolls around in and all that gangsta fishing and hunting he does, just screams prima donna. Whatever, dude.

And oh, that massive ego. In fact, the problem has always been that he is not assertive enough of assuming the responsibilities and persona of a superstar with this team, leaving that role to others to assume.

He ain’t perfect. None of them are. He has been prone from time to time to making diva like comments but, for me, for the most part, he is a down home, far too unassuming dude.

And, again, a monotti, mets suck - we dropped them like dead weight 14 years in a row just like the Yankees have been dropping them like dead weight for the past 45 years in NYC.

By Braveheart

March 12, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

i never realized that about the Arena league carroll. that is a great rule that the NFL should adopt

By AdirondackDave

March 12, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

It’s way too early to get seriously nervous about Thorman… but, in the end if he doesn’t do the job I figure Wilson will inherit first full-time, giving left field back to Langy and Diaz solely. Also, I’ve got to think Salty is going to get some AA Mississippi time at first if Thorman doesn’t do the job.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

AdirondackDave, yes, I agree on Smoltz: Looked outstanding today. As La Russa said afterward, he’s ready for opening day now….

And yes, that was me talking to Langerhans and Hubbard.

By David O'Brien

March 12, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Greg in TN, Bobby really likes Bohn. I talked to him before the game about Bohn, and talked with Bohn. Good dude. Very good defensive outfielder. I think we’re gonna see him up with the big club this season, sooner or later.

That’s a two-out RBI double and a two-out RBI single in two days vs. St. Louis for Bohn….

Anybody notice Francoeur’s 8-for-23 (.348) with two homers and three K?…

Wouldn’t worry about Kelly J. He’s been solid in the field and he’ll hit. He was at .286 before that 0-fer today. No big deal. It’s spring training, folks. Long as he doesn’t fall on his face, the job is his, trust me. And he’s not falling on his face, especially not in the field.

Thorman will either be playing every day or platooning. Cox gave every indication before the game today that he’s got full confidence in Thorman and that he thinks he’s doing fine.

I’ve gotta say, I’ve never had huge expectations from him this year, but I don’t know that the Braves do, either. That’s why they got Wilson (.353), obviously, for insurance. And remember, Diaz could play first, too, if it came to that.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 12, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

I, also, think its too early to start worrying about Thorman. I believe it was Braves 20 who said earlier that Thorman has been facing “B” and “C” pitching and that is simply untrue. Thorman has been in the starting lineup and facing the opposing team’s starting pitcher. Most of the pitching he, Frenchy, McCann, and even Orr have faced is been the other teams’ starting pitchers.

I think Thorman is pressing as well and believe he get this nervousness and anxiety out of the way before the season begins. Its probably time Chipper, Smoltz, and Renteria have a talk with him and tell to just slow down.

By the way Kelly Johnson has looked great. He had a tough game today but he has shown why the Braves feel he will be a good leadoff hitter and he hasn’t done anything to embarrass himself. However, with all that being said, it could be very beneficial for the Braves to have Prado platoon with him but that isn’t likely to happen.

By pompousN8

March 12, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

Grinch

I’m not a gambling man, so I’ll pleasantly decline your offer. However, let’s just say it’s for bragging rights.

I’ll narrow it down, to 100 games. Give or take 5 on either side.

If I’m wrong. I’ll GLADLY come back on here, and as another poster stated earlier, and state HOW WRONG I WAS in big, bold type. LOL!

As I’ve stated (twice now)…. I HOPE I’M WRONG!

I’d rather suck it up, and admit I was wrong, all while having Chipper play in 140 or so games and collect 500 and some odd AB’s. We would be considerably better.

Having said that, HOW ON EARTH will we EVER know how good Escobar, (or other prospects), will be, if thrown into the fire? At some point the kids have to play, don’t they?

I’m not saying that Escobar is Lou Gehrig and Chipper is Wally Pipp, but you see where I’m going, don’t you?

How about Kurt Warner? Good thing Trent Green blew out his knee in the Pre-season, isn’t it?

Like I said. Not saying that Escobar (or ANYBODY else in the system), is gonna make us forget about Chipper’s greatness. But at what point do we become the Celtics of the 80’s? I mean (and this is no fault to Chipper), we kepty him at 11 million per year (or whatever it is averaged out to, with all the “re-working” he’s done), but cut ties with Glavine and Maddux????

Who do you think has helped their teams more the last couple of years? I realize that hindsight is always clearer. But considering the STOCKPILE of infielders we have in the system, and the LACK of quality starting pitching that has surfaced, Chuck James not included in that assesment, one could argue that the pitching of Glavine and Maddux would’ve been more beneficial to hang on to, vs. Chipper or Andruw, or both.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 12, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

DOB, with the way both Langerhans and Diaz have been hitting this spring and with the way they both seem to kill lefthanded pitching, it may be best to have Diaz platoon with Thorman at 1st will Wilson playing occassionally until his shoulder gets better.

By AdirondackDave

March 12, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

DOB - Forgot to mention in my earlier post that Puhols and Rolen looked absolutely helpless striking out in the first against Smoltzie. I’ve only seen the Braves in person a few times over the years (it’s a long way to the Adirondacks) but one memorable game was a 4-hit shutout by Smoltz about 1993-94 (I think.) Anyway, as dominating as he was that day as a young player, I think he was better today if you can believe that. He was all power in those days, now he’s power plus savvy and cool as a cucumber — and getting better which out to be be pretty frightening to the rest of the league! Thanks, by the way, for confirming that was you we saw behind the batting cage this afternoon.

By The Grinch

March 12, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

N8, I understand. I made a bet with KC on Hudson for this season back when we had an awful bullpen. A couple of things you’re forgetting about Chipper, though. One, the dude ain’t washed up. He hit .326 last year with power. Two, we gotta pay him two more years regardless(he’s a 10-5 guy under contract with a no-trade), so “Why don’t we cut or trade him” don’t hold water. Three, there’s no Kurt Warner waiting in the wings at 3b who isn’t getting a chance (though I see KW’s wife just got the starring role in Ghostrider; good for her). Yes, I’ll go to hell for that last one; pile it on to everything else. So, DOB, you look like a “Writer-type,” huh? Wonder what that means.

By AdirondackDave

March 12, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Grinch — DOB looked like a “writer-type” because he was standing behind the batting cage chatting with Hubbard and Langy with a notebook in his hand. The notebook was the tell.

By Braveheart

March 12, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

in the last 3 years, when Chipper starts, the Braves are 190-146

In the last 3 years, when Chipper does not start, the Braves are 75-75.

So, no, I’m not itching to push him aside to see some kid play.

It would be nice not to see him not miss 50 starts a season though.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 12, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

writer-type could mean anything from the old journalist to celestine sibley. does grinch suppose dob is a celestine sibley look-alike? when celestine was alive,of course. could be the henry grady look, too. pigeon splattered. or ralph mcgill - with the pipe. or maybe like jim minter or jesse outlar. all pretty good scribes. writer-like could be most anything. maybe adirodack dave will tell us more.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

N8, it seems rather pointless to compare Maddux, Glavine and Chipper _ two were nearly 40-year-old pitchers who became free agents and got very good contracts from other teams, while the other was a 10-and-5 guy with a few years left on a huge contract _ but I’ll bite anyway:

Maddux is 28-29 with a 4.22 ERA over the past two seasons. He’s 44-40 with a 4.15 ERA in three seasons since leaving the Braves, and his teams are 52-50 in his starts over that three-year span.

Glavine is 48-48 with a 3.85 ERA in four seasons since leaving the Braves, and his Met teams are 65-65 in those games.

Chipper has hit .311 with 58 doubles, 47 homers, 158 RBIs, a .410 OBP and .577 slugging percentage in 219 games over the past two seasons.

In the past four seasons, he’s hit .291 with 104 homers, 360 RBIs, 325 runs, a .395 OBP and .535 slugging percentage in 509 games.

The Braves are 294-215 in the games he played.

Who you think, Maddux or Glavine, has been more valuable than Chipper over the past couple years or since they left, or do you think both pitchers have been more valuable?

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

And for what it’s worth, in the past four seasons Maddux has made about $39 million, Glavine about $40 million, and Chipper about $56 million.

By AdirondackDave

March 13, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

Journalist Jimmy — I’d like to take credit for being psychic but, in truth, check my post above, the notebook was the tell.

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

Over the last 3 years, he has been in an average of 118 games per season, while hitting .286, averaging 25 HR’s and 84 RBI.
Ladies and gentleman. That’s a trend. That’s the new “norm”, it IS what is to be expected from him, NOTHING MORE, MAYBE LESS.

N8: Couple of things. In those 3 years, Chipper has actually hit .287 and averaged about 26HR’s. It’s all in how you look at it N8. You round down, I round up.
For that matter, let’s look at it further…
2004: .248 AVG 30 HR
2005: .296 AVG 21 HR
2006: .324 AVG 26 HR
In that same time he has a HR/AB ratio of 16.1. In the previous 10 years; 18.7. I agree, it is a trend. A trend upward.
If Chipper plays in 110 games this year you’ll see similar production to last season. If he plays in more, you’ll see even better production. The team will produce better. When Chipper is in the lineup, the team takes off.
Last season he would have been outstanding…but he caught the flu before Spring Training. He lost weight. Became weaker because of it. Twisted his ankle on a terrible infield. Jacked his leg up. Then altered his swing to compensate for the leg issues, and tweaked his oblique landing on the DL some more.
This season he hasn’t caught the flu. We are starting on the East Coast. And it isn’t a long road trip. On top of all of that, Andruw is in a walk year and looks noticably thinner which should result in improved production (if one can really improve on AJ’s production). I think we’ll see great things from both Jones’ and with McCann and Francoeur behind them, it should only get better.

It’s all in the way you look at it, N8. I’d tend to lean more towards KC’s belief, this team will live or die with Hudson on the mound. But the offense will live and die with Chipper on the field. We need his bat in the line up. But even more so, we need Hudson to be reliable every 5th day (given the always amazing Smoltz is always amazing). Having a reliable Hudson increases confidence. If you know you have Hudson in form and Smoltz in the rotation makes it easier to go out there the next day after a loss. No losing streak should last more than a few games.

GO BRAVES

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Thanks for the info on Bohn, DOB. The kid can definitely put the ball in play. I hate that I didn’t get a chance to record the game versus the Pirates and I am itching to see some games already to see some of these younger guys playing. I’ll definitely get out to the ballpark here when Mississippi is in town to play the homestanding Smokies, now affiliated with the… uggghhhh… Chicago Cubs.

By Jared

March 13, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

The illegal alien idea is perfect. We have millions of illegal aliens in this country. Many have jobs, don’t pay income taxes, leech off welfare and get free education for their children, be they illegal too or an archor baby. The federal government does near nothing. It sounds like all Phil Stockman needs to do is go into Mexico, and sneak into the U.S. I like it.

As for Lopez, please no. It’s Brayan Pena’s time. He really deserves it. He deserved it in 2005 before the Braves signed Todd Pratt. Let Pena be the back-up. He’s earned it.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 13, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Yea those notebooks are dead giveaways everytime—just had to be a writer type—or a school girl!…

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

one could argue that the pitching of Glavine and Maddux would’ve been more beneficial to hang on to, vs. Chipper or Andruw, or both.

One could argue, but it’d be a losing, pointless argument. I read DOB’s response, then had to go back and find what he was talking about. I was stunned, stunned!, to see AJ was included in that. AJ was runner up to the MVP in that time frame. Not to mention his 90+ HR over the last two years. Add that all in with Chipper and then juxtapose with the Glavine/Maddux stats DOB posted and it becomes near impossible to make a serious argument.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 13, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

adirondack dave, thanks. in the future look for ink-stains. ink-stains are the bane of the journalist’s wardrobe - and tell tale sign of journalistic pursuit. fortunately, baby seal has been able to save many a jacket for this journalist with liberal application of club soda. now, pie … why do we no longer talk pie on this blog? spring will bring apple pie to the forefront. baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, and thorman on first. oh, the humanity! jimmy smith hopes thorman will hit.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 13, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Wouldn’t be any illegal aliens walking across the Mexican border if rich fat-cats and corporations looking for slave labor didn’t illegally hire them—and if current adminstration officials and politicians didn’t count them as future votes!…

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

N8: You wrote: “Having said that, HOW ON EARTH will we EVER know how good Escobar, (or other prospects), will be, if thrown into the fire? At some point the kids have to play, don’t they?”

First of all, you shouldn’t lump Escobar with Prado, who’s played parts of SIX seasons in the minors, or Pena, who’s played SEVEN seasons in the minors and is out of options.

To repeat something I’ve said previously but seems to get overlooked: Escobar has played a total of 177 games (658 at-bats) of professional baseball in 1-1/2 seasons, and his options clock hasn’t even started yet (they’re not even close to the point of having to protect him on the 40-man roster).

Oh, and not to be down on the guy, because I think he’s gonna be good, but he was pretty bad for most of last season at Mississippi, his only season above A-ball. He hit .264 with 2 HRs, 45 RBIs, 26 errors in 121 games in Double-A.

If you were manager, you’re saying you’d start Escobar over Chipper based on, what, his 22 games in the Arizona Fall League and two weeks of spring training? Sure, why not….

I’ll be curious to see how long it’ll take once Escobar reaches the majors for him to have a full season as productive as Chipper had in only 109 games last year _ .324-26-86, not to mention the 1.005 OPS.

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

DOB, to be fair about Glavine’s 48-48, 65-65 record, keep in mind the Mets suck. Had he played for a decent team (last year notwithstanding) he would’ve looked a bit better. So, do you look more like Hemingway, or Tarrantino?

Jared, what the hell is an “Archor baby?”

10Paul, thanks for correcting me. .324 makes the same point, though. Jimmy, I’ll take Baby Seal’s advice and get a Stihl. I knew I done did wrong getting a McCullough on the WE. Really, though; inherited my dad’s Stihl chainsaw that he bought in 1974; only had to replace it last year ‘cause I lost a few key parts during a move. Good stuff.

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

SJA: Agreed. It’s getting hard to tell the democrats from the republicans these days!! They all look the same….

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Grinch, agreed. And I didn’t mean to suggest Glavine or Maddux wouldn’t have been great for the Braves. Of COURSE they would’ve preferred to keep them. I was the one suggesting last winter how they should bring back Glavine if they could make it work somehow, even if it meant trading another pitcher.

But my bigger point was that both Maddux and Glavine were free agents looking at $10 mill or more a year on multi-year contracts for pitchers approaching 40, and teams weren’t exactly lining up to take on Chipper’s salary the last few years, when he still had that huge $52 mill-over-three-seasons total coming up, with the vesting options and bonuses and all that, at a time when that was a far greater figure than it is in today’s market (he’s since renegotiated it downward, but with guaranteed years instead of options).

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

What is it with fair weather fans? It seems to be so popular to be down on Chipper. If Smoltz had another injury, they would probably start piling on him too. Seems that Hampton and Larry can do nothing right with some of these fans. I guess they are not true “fanatics” for our Braves.

Chipper can still carry this team on his back for 10 days, something AJ has not been as capable of doing nearly as frequently as Chip.

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Interesting that Maddux and Glavine were never really interested in much of a hometown discount, yet, Chipper, Smoltz, and AJ in earlier years have. To me this sort of attitude tells volumes about someones loyalty.

I choose not to rail on the guys who have done what they could to help the team, and could care less for guys who go after all they can get at the expense of their team (A-Rod, anyone!).

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 1:01 AM | Link to this

Maybe I would think differently if faced with the dollar potential these guys have, but I don’t think so. How much can one man spend? How much security do you really need? I have no doubt that with about 4 or 5 million, a person could set up himself and his family for a lifetime, if they were reasonable in their desires. I think it comes down to greed.

So, AJ, how much do you really need? And don’t tell me that I would do the same, because I wouldn’t. I remember when Murph signed for something like 4.5 million for 5 years, then a year later, salaries doubled for the elite. A reporter made a statement to him something to the effect: “Well you can renegotiate a really good contract now, huh?” Murph said something like this: “I already have a contract. Why would I need another one? This one was good when I signed it, and it is still good now.” (paraphrasing, from my feeble memory)

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 1:04 AM | Link to this

Jimmy, I had chocolate pie at the Amish restaurant in Andersonville the other day (I’ll elaborate at another time as to what the Amish are doing in south Ga)…they had home made shoo-fly pie as well, but I missed out.

DOB, I also agree Maddux would’ve looked better here as well (anyone like to have him as a #4 instead of Redman?), but it was not to be. And the free-agent, long-term thing makes a whole lot of difference in this argument considering the ownership/budget.

Wayne the Ute, Chipper’s more consistent but when andruw’s on a streak few are better. Now, I’ve ordered “Little Miss Sunshine” on Comcast and should watch it.

By pompousN8

March 13, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

DOB

You wrote:

“If you were manager, you’re saying you’d start Escobar over Chipper based on, what, his 22 games in the Arizona Fall League and two weeks of spring training? Sure, why not….”

You misunderstood my statement: “At some point the kids have to play, don’t they?”

As meaning, I’d start Escobar over Chipper. If Chipper is healthy (as I’ve stated, and your numbers have shown), and in the lineup, WE ARE A BETTER TEAM.

I guess ultimately the ONLY thing (due to the 10/5 status), is cross our fingers, hope Chipper stays in the lineup, and KEEP ALL POSSIBLE replacements until further notice.

As far as the Maddux/Chipper/Glavine hypothetical about “who has been more valuble”? Even a pompous guy like myself, can see that, that is IMPOSSIBLE to assume/predict.

It’s clearly a case of Chicken vs. the Egg. Without Chipper in the line up the last 4 years, we would’ve (and have) scored less runs. Having said that, without Maddux and Glavine in the rotation, we’ve given up MORE runs the last few years. Which is more important?

As far as your “I’ll be curious to see how long it’ll take once Escobar reaches the majors for him to have a full season as productive as Chipper had in only 109 games last year _ .324-26-86, not to mention the 1.005 OPS.”, comment?

Well, in all fairness, I also wonder how long it will take for Escobar (or whoever his replacement is), to take up 1/8 of the payroll? LOL! I don’t expect ANY ONE PERSON to come in and replace a Chipper Jones, John Smoltz, Andruw Jones, etc…. But I tell you what. Even in THIS outrageous market, the $50 million or so, that those three “could” cost us next year, could help “fill in the blanks” on the rest of the 25 man roster, don’t ya think?

Only time will tell.

TennesseePaul*

It’s all good. Just conversing, no malace intended. :-)

GOONIGHT ALL.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

N8, I’ve been nursing a stomach virus and may have missed much of the thread associated with your *Over the last 3 years, he has been in an average of 118 games per season, while hitting .286, averaging 25 HR’s and 84 RBI.

Ladies and gentleman. That’s a trend.*

But, while I may agree with the essence of what you said … I don’t understand what you mean by “That’s a trend”.

Mine are but opinions but if you mean that the cumulative impact of the abuse from years of play and his other ailments has become apparent and is certain to accelerate over time, then I would agree … though the rate of aceleration may be less than it has been and may remain at acceptable levels for some time to come.

A gold glove, he’s never been … but I was more disappointed in his defense last year than in previous years … however, at times, his focus and performance at the plate bordered on the fantastic … and much of the time it certainly seemed as good as it ever was.

Leadership wise, I don’t know … we all approach such “responsibilities” in different ways … some are natural leaders and others aren’t … but I thought that both he and Smoltz could have been beter last year, based on the interviews … but, the opposite may well have been true behind closed doors.

My fear has little to do with any of that … I fear the “afraid to give 100% - injury anticipation” subconscious mental virus that plagues so many with a history of chronic problems.

For some reason, I’ve always loved his intensity at the plate but have always had reservations of one type or another … keeping me from being his his greatest fan … except when we played the Mets.

In spite of all that, it’s still my opinion that he’s what the Braves are all about … he’s among the most valuable of our players, whether he’s in the game or not … it’s just what he is.

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

Grinch: Used to get some good Amish grub in East Central Illinois when I lived in Decatur.

For the dollars, I would pick Redman over Maddux this year. Since we are restricted by the dollars, gotta consider what each win costs us in the way of salary. I suspect Redman will win us a dozen games if he gets 30 starts. How much more would Glavine or Maddux get for how much more $$.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

My notebook has 3 rings … one less than my phone … both are old, but not as old as me … goodnight

By MS

March 13, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

Grinch, you will love “Little Miss Sunshine.” Simply a great movie.

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

Journalist Bob: A thought. I have always thought it was the managers responsibility to provide leadership. Leadership is not something that one necessarily develops. It CAN be developed, but it doesn’t always happen. Some are natural born leaders, while most of us are not. It is not usually a learned behavior.

I ruminate on this because my second job is teaching “Principles of Management” at a JC. Not an expert, but a curious student of management ….

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 1:21 AM | Link to this

My Friends: I will have another interesting day on Thursday of this week. I will go from some of the most barren, ugly terrain to some of the most beautiful in the span of about 2 hours. Making sales calls from Lovell, WY to the outskirt of Yellowstone NP. I get to do this once every 2-3 months. Even the barren lands are beautiful though, in their own ways….

By Wayne in Utah

March 13, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

For you bloggers that believe in a higher being out there, say a prayer for a missing 10 year old in our neighborhood tonight. The helicopters are circling overhead looking for him right now. He has been missing since elementary school let out this afternoon. Lives just a few blocks away from me here in Layton, Utah.

I just caught the story on the late news. Sports doesn’t seem to be so important right now….

Goodnight all…..Gonna go walk the neighborhood for a while.

By Jared

March 13, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

Grinch, it should be “anchor baby”. But I think you may have already known that.

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

You got it Wayne. Hope it turns out well.

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 2:37 AM | Link to this

N8: No malice taken, just didn’t really follow the logic the way you laid it out. It’s Spring Training. Had you posted that in September of last year, I’d probably been a little more receptive. Not too much though. As far as Active Fav-Braves go, Chippers in the top, just under Smoltz and just ahead of AJ. Seniority rules. All those guys are going to have to wait till Smoltz retires before they mark the top spot on the mantle. Though, it isn’t like they are that far off. Microns. Nanometers. Angnstroms. Whatever. Which reminds me… Lew, thanks again for the Art. I absolutely love it.

By TK

March 13, 2007 3:02 AM | Link to this

I was just reading about Pete Orr. I think he needs to change his name to Rodney Dangerfield…”He gets no resect” Maybe he can be in the Carl Crawford trade. OH NO! I am sounding like Robert (jitb). And I said they name that dare not be spoken CC. Sorry all!

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 3:18 AM | Link to this

Jared, all BS aside I’d never heard the term “Anchor Baby.” Now that I look back on your post, I can figure out what it means. I wasn’t trying to be a smartass(for once).

Bob, if your phone is as old as you are, I’m surprised it rings at all instead of Edison at the other end telling you a “Yo Mama” joke.

Wayne, for what it’s worth I’ve requested my pagan gods be on their way to your neighborhood. Good luck, my friend.

By ssiscribe

March 13, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

Grinch: Yeah man, just bought me a single one for way up in the upper deck for the second game of the first round (couldn’t get a cheapie for Game 1, but I’m gonna keep trying). Spent most of my fun money on Braves tix two weeks ago. It’s definitely a cheap beer week at the Scribe shack.

Wayne, hope they find the little guy. That always scares the hell out of me when a little one goes missing. There is one missing down where I used to live on the coast. We’ll keep all of them in our thoughts and prayers.

Now, pies (noted transition by the Scribe): I’m partial to pumpkin, but apple pies screams baseball. May have to get a pie for the game tonight, which is on TV.

Now, ink (more transition): I’m partial to blue pens because I like blue. Black is OK. I do not like pens that smear easily, though; nothing harder than transcribing quotes from around the batting cage that have become smeared. Also gets on your hands, which then gets on the cheese spread in the press box, which makes the other scribes unhappy (nobody wants to eat cheese that is stained by ink).

Cheese? Ink? Oh, the humanity! Somebody get me outta here. Gotta go get started on deadline if I’m gonna be home for the first pitch.

The Scribe abides. Selah.

—30—

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 8:11 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah … I agree without reservation.

Maybe the difference between managers and leaders is that managers have reservations while leaders own the restaurant.

I’m sure we all hope that the little boy will be found … safe and sound … our prayers are for his safe return.

By KC

March 13, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

Okay, I know I’m going to take some serious crap for this… but I say sign Javy Lopez.

If need be, use him as your third catcher. It’d just be nice to have his bat on the bench.

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

Bob, journalist,

Signing Javy may not be bad if he signs a minor league deal. I don’t think the Braves should pay more than that for a DH disguised as a catcher. But if he’s willing to be a backup C/1B/RH-PH and take a minor league deal, sure, why not?

By Covington,Ga

March 13, 2007 8:59 AM | Link to this

When will the Braves learn…First it was Mike Hampton now its Chipper Jones…Why pay for these over priced players???..I dont blame Bobby for retiring after this season…I would leave this team as quick as possible too.

By Carroll

March 13, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

Grinch: I would think that football purists would like the Arena league rule even better…it would cut out all of this “taking a knee” garbage at the end of games. Teams would have to work to keep that clock moving. And the eternal-optimist fans, like me, would keep watching to the long and bitter end thinking: “okay 58 seconds to go…we stop them here, clock stops, they punt, we run it back for a touch, do an onsides kick and recover the ball, do a hail mary, then one more onside kick, touchdown, two point conversion…” You get the idea, lol!

By Coach

March 13, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

Just one question KC , The braves will have just five bench players. How on earth could they carry three catchers ? If Lopez would accept a minor league assignment. Then sure , sign him. otherwise it just isn’t feasible.

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

Covington,Ga,

Chipper at 80 percent is a lot better than most players at 100 percent. He’s still easily one of the best hitters in the game.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

if you sign javy though, is he going to worth keeping around at the expense of Diaz/Langerhans/Wilson? Essentially, if they sign Javy that means either Diaz or Wilson will be the odd man out. I don’t think that would be Wilson at all - more flexibility with the outfield and first base and better than average production. If Javy is signed as a backup first baseman in addition to all of those other roles others have talked about on here, that essentially pushes Wilson out to the outfield and squeezes out Diaz. Is Javy worth having around more than Diaz? I don’t think so. My heart says otherwise but brain says what’s the point. But as Shaun said, can’t hurt to sign a minor league contract. You can always cut him once the roster is set - that would be too ugly of an end for me though.

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

Coach and KC and Bob,

Coach is right. It would be hard to justify using a roster spot on a decent yet older right-handed hitter that really has little to no defensive value, no matter how little they pay him.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

KC, who do you kick off the 25-man roster in order to make room for a third catcher and third first baseman, one whose batting average and home run totals have gone from .328-43 in 2003, to .316-23 in 2004, to .278-15 (in 395 at-bats) in 2005, to .251-8 (in 342 at-bats) in 2006.

His OPS in that span dropped steadily from career-high 1.065 in 2004, to .873, to .780, to .683.

On his current trend, he should hit, oh, about .230 with five homers and a .590 OPS this season, if any team picks him up.

By Coach

March 13, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this

Missing boy found http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=983052

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

My guess is if Lopez wants to continue his career he’s going to have to accept a role as a platoon DH/backup C-1B type. My guess is if he continues on he’ll go to a bad AL team like the Royals or Mariners—a team that needs more options at DH in case one of their other older guys goes down.

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

I hate to say it, but Javy just might be at the end. And I don’t think we have room for that on the roster. If he is going to retire, then maybe we can pull one of those sign and retire moves so he can go out a Brave.

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

Yeah, baseballthinkfactory.com projects Lopez at .260 AVG/.312 OBP/.399 SLG, 8 HR. Not awful for a catcher but far from good for a catcher with virtually nothing to offer on defense. Maybe be good for Lopez to hang it up and it may be good for interested teams to resist the temptation to use up a roster spot or any of their budget on him, now that I think about it. Even if he would accept a minor league contract and would accept playing in the minors, you have to think he’s taking a spot away from a younger guy who couldn’t be much worse.

By dean

March 13, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

How can these lazy, overpaid, athletes? just now be starting the season, coming off five months of doing nothing be injured? I say get someone in there who wants to play and not whine about being sore. Professional athletes need to work out all during the year and stay in top condition. The off months should be used for training and not sitting around larding-up!! This is truly someone that I want as a role model

By Metropolitan Man

March 13, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Look at the siver lining braves fans. If your key guys get hurt early which I dont wish on any one, then they have time to come back later and make a charge at the end. Anyone who calls themselves a braves fans should not be suprised by Larryyyyy’s injury. The Phils are playing under .500 and the METS are cellar dwellars (spring only). So tell this baseball fan what has impressed you so far and what has you worried????

By Metropolitan Man

March 13, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Your 1 and 2 starters are better than the METS 1 and 2 starters, but the METS will end up with a better set of 3-5 guys than the braves. Oh yea, Delgado wont start the season because Of a birth so thats 1 bat gone for at least the 1st week. Whatever team gets the jump early will probably hold it due to role players coming back and streanthening the team. I’ll take that broke Hampton for Sele and Sanchez.

By KC

March 13, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

See… I told you I would catch crap for this. lol

DOB: “KC, who do you kick off the 25-man roster in order to make room for a third catcher and third first baseman”

Brian McCann.

By BamaBrave

March 13, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

I agree with what I read yesterday…the Mets don’t really worry me, but the Phillies do. Their Achilles heels are Tom Gordon - and that ballpark. Cheap home runs can be had there. Other than those two things, they have a very balanced club. The Mutts do not.

By AdirondackDave

March 13, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

DOB - Has Bohn played anything other than outfield? Like 3rd, hope, I hope, I hope…

By richard m royal

March 13, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

Vision…Chipper. The braves signed chipped not an every day player to a long term contract for 1162 games.

The biggest Mistake, maybe in Baseball would be for the $$$ spent on Chipper, dictates Andruw leaving. Yes, John S. is good, he made a big mistake here. richard hull new email rmrconsultant@gmail.com

By richard m royal

March 13, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Vision…Chipper. The braves signed chipped not an every day player to a long term contract for 1162 games.

The biggest Mistake, maybe in Baseball would be for the $$$ spent on Chipper, dictates Andruw leaving. Yes, John S. is good, he made a big mistake here. richard hull new email rmrconsultant@gmail.com

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

dean,

Yes, athletes are much worse role models than “overpaid” actors.

I know it’s cliche, but if you are depending on celebrities, athletes, or pretty much any human beings to be examples for your kids, you’ve got problems.

By Lew

March 13, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

MetroDude-James, our number three starter is better than anyone on your staff, including Glavine. Face it. Your pitching staff is second rate and there’s no way to spin it otherwise.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 13, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

scribe is right that ink in the cheese removes all good humor from a pressbox full of journalists … jimmy smith is reminded about the time jimmy smith sprinkled some ink atop the newly purchased cheese in the refrigerator. everyone thought the cheese had gone bad - everyone but jimmy smith. that was a night of nights in the pressbox as this journalist had all the cheese to this journalist’s self. occasionally this journalist would emit false sounds as if the cheese was taking its toll. this kept other journalists at bay. cheese among journalists can create envy and avarice. also some pretty good sandwiches. now, baseball … what is all this talk of chipper? once the new shoes are broken-in all will be fine. and now, pie … does someone (flabravesgirl) have a recipe for cheese pie? please, no one confuse this with pizza. and is pizza considered a pie by the pie purist? chicken pot a real pie? must pie be a fruit pie? what of chocolate pie? eskimo pie? and of course, felix pie? many questions. many, many, questions. now, dob … did not weigh in on the “writer-type”. hmmm…. and we must remember to wake bob for tonight’s game. hk is in charge.

By KC

March 13, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Just kidding about McCann of course. Yeah, I guess the 3rd catcher thing wouldn’t work out. If Javy weren’t too great a defensive liability, I would like to see the Braves sign him as their primary backup catcher. But… he may well be too great a defensive liability.

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

richard m royal,

Yes, Chipper is more fragile but he’s also a lot more valuable than Andruw. Even in 15-20 less games, Chipper is worth more to the Braves.

I do think the Braves would be better off trading Chipper but no one would take him. So they have to deal with what they’ve got—a Hall of Fame hitter who isn’t going to play 160 games but is still one of the best hitters in the game.

By KC

March 13, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Metro man: “Your 1 and 2 starters are better than the METS 1 and 2 starters, but the METS will end up with a better set of 3-5 guys than the braves.”

Really?! That’s great! Just out of curiosity… who do you have that’s better than Chuck James?

As for the 4, 5 slots… who are you pulling for to make the Mets rotation? Jorge Sosa? Chan Ho Park? WAIT! I forgot… Oliver-postseason-savior-Perez (with a 6.55 reg. season ERA, and a much improved 4.63 postseason ERA) will have one of those slots. So I guess Sosa and Park will have to battle it out for the 5th slot.

I can see why you feel good about the back end of that rotation.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 13, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Javy Lopez plays defense like a mannequin and grounds out like Andruw Jones—so when do the Braves sign him?…

By Rodger

March 13, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Yeah Shaun, but when overpaid actors are hurt they go to a different “rehab”!

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

richard m royal,

I think it would be good to move Chipper but it would be impossible to find a taker that’s going to give the Braves anything close to fair value.

And Chipper is the type of player you take a risk on with a big, long-term deal. He’s the type guy who could have an MVP-type season as any time.

In hindsight it’s easy to second-guess signing Chipper for as much money and as many years as the Braves did. But it’s difficult to predict injuries. And besides that, there is absolutely nothing wrong with Chipper’s offensive game—he’s clearly one of the best hitters in the game still.

Andruw is great but his defense has started to decline and he’s never been close to the offensive force Chipper has been, even in more games.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Rodger: or when they make stupid homophobic comments, they go to rehab as well. What was the deal with that anyway? why do you need to go to rehab because you said something stupid about gay people? bizarre and needless remedy, if you ask me. anything to save your job and placate your bosses I guess. sorry for getting off topic.

BTW, you really also have to love the blogger who criticizes lazy athletes but who at the same time is posting comments on blogs during the middle of the day. Which kind of laziness do you think his boss is more worried about: the fact that Chipper may or may not work hard enough in the offseason or whether his employee is wasting work time ranting on a blog? Not saying that you shouldn’t blog. Just telling you to stop being a hypocrite.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 13, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Bob, I wouldn’t wish a stomach virus on my worst of all enemies. Hope your recover soon.

Grinch, I used to work for a lawncare service as a second income. Stihl is the only way to go.

As for the Javier Jopez thing, we tried the veteran-presence backup catcher thing last season. Doesn’t everybody remember how that went?

Journalist Jimmy, My mother-in-law makes a vicious fried chocolate pie. Is there anything that can’t be fried in the South?….I think not.

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 13, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Javy has already said he does not need the money. He is not going to just hang around. That is the same as what Mike Hampton has said all along. Not going to the minors again. Rehab is one thing but being sent down is something else.

These folks are pretty savy with their money I think and draw defred payments. I always felt baseball players were smarter that basketball players anyway.

Okay, lots to do today. This early retirement thing is okay. I only wish I had done it sooner. My target date was age 40. Missed it by a few years but oh well. Can’t have it all.

By Thrillhouse44

March 13, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

I see the game is on “SPSO” tonight. What station is that?

By Carolina Lady

March 13, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

SJA, I agree with your comments on corporate America and illegals. They have sold America for their 20 pieces of silver and the government is just as much at fault. It is, in effect, a totally open border. So much for “security.” Now, baseball……

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Obviously, having Chipper out of the lineup for any extended period hurts us, but I really think Aybar (if he can stay healthy, seems a little injury-proned himself) will be a very adequate backup.

In only 10 ab’s this spring, he’s got a .400 obp and a homer. A very small sample, but whenever he’s played at the major league level, he’s been an on-base machine. .387 obp in 329 ab’s. At some point, “it’s a trend” as they say.

I can’t see trading Chipper, btw. I do expect you could find a taker - he could be an outstanding DH and, while he makes good money, it’s really not through the roof for a likely .300/30/100 guy (in the AL).

But I suspect that there is no way Chipper would approve a trade, and no way the Braves would even propose it. I think we’d regret it bigtime if we did - guess I’ve got a little more confidence that he’ll play 130 games or so than some…

By Lew

March 13, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Now why are we supposed to be so afraid of the Phillies? Stop and look at this rationally for a minute. Their starting rotation is supposedly improved. The only bona fide starter who is good is Myers. A 3.91 ERA in that stadium is flat out great. No doubt about it. After Myers, however….. Hamels, as I’ve said before, was overused last year and is due for time on the DL. Bookmark it, y’all, it will happen. Garcia is supposed to be the new savior for the rotation. However, he had a 4.53 ERA in the Al last year and given that he gave up 32 HR in 216 IP, I doubt he will do much better at this place. He will probably give up 60 HR there. Jamie Moyer is another 40 something and is due to fade, probably sooner than later. Eaton had a 5.12 ERA at Texas and also is not likely to imrpove those numbers in Philly. They have no middle relief depth and their closer, Tom Gordon is old, old and is already being examined because of elbow stiffness. Their closer fallback is Alfonseca. Need I say more. They have a new third baseman. Wes Helms may or may not be any better than David Bell. Abreu is gone. Delucci is gone. They only have 5 outfielders on their active roster and three have no ML experience. Rowand is much injured and Burrell is iffy at the best of times. He could be good, he could be lousy. It could go either way. They have NO experienced catcher who shows any offense. Aside from 1B,2B and SS, the Phillies are iffy at best everywhere else. The pitching is likely to prove inadequate in that stadium. Why all the worry? Because of Ryan Howward?

By KC

March 13, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

I’m with Lew. I think the Phillies aren’t nearly as improved a ball club as many are giving them credit for. And if they prove us wrong… they’ll have Lady Luck to thank. That’s because, as Lew pointed out, their new ace, co-ace, or whatever you want to call him… posted an ERA of around 4.50 last year, and gave up more round-trips than a Wendy’s-Airtran promotion.

Don’t the White Sox play in something of a pitcher’s park? That certainly can’t be said of the Phillies, who play in a damn popcorn machine.

What else did they do to improve their pitching staff? Adam Eaton???

I won’t question their offense. I know they’re going to score runs. But their pitching remains suspect. Both Garcia and Hamels have to have big years for the Phils to have any chance.

By Coach

March 13, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Metroman , I sincerely hope you aren’t completely delusional. Glavine and his 16-9 3.49 is back , Trachsel’s 15-8 4.97 ERA is gone , Pedro’s 9-8 4.48 is on the DL. Orlando Hernandez(9-7 4.09 ERA) went from fourth starter to second in the Mets rotation and you guys don’t even know who your three through five starters are yet. On second thought , maybe you are delusional.

By Carolina Gent

March 13, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

All of this talk about Chipper and his production -vs- injuries makes me think back, for all of us “veteran” Braves fans, to a blast from the past, Bob Horner. Horner, like Chipper, was quite the run-producer when healthy, which was not very often. Chipper in his prime was far more talented than Horner, but as has already been said here, at 35, he’s on his way down, not up. I don’t think we’ll see any more 150 G, 40 HR, 130 RBI seasons from Chipper, but I’ll be happy with 135-140 G, 30 HR, 110-120!

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 13, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, you ever listen to frank black and the catholics? i’ve been listening to “dog in the sand,” and love it. i first put it on yesterday afternoon around 4, and have probably listened to it 4 or 5 times through by now. really good sound.

By Metropolitan Man

March 13, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

The METS 3-5 guys Maine, Perez and Pelfrey are young guns. Now being a baseball fan and watching the braves, its always journeymen and young guys starting out that really gives the braves fits. Heck, O. Perez shut you guys out last year. Chuck James sounds like he has a lot of upside but something would worry me about a pitcher who says he doesnt study hiiters, just goes out and pitches. Yeah, that method for success should last long. Anyway C. James sounds like a great story but where you guys turn when Smolzt Hudson and possibly James are the only games you guys have a chance at winning. You guys are mow mirror images of the METS, and its not all bad.

By SoundsFamiliar

March 13, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Are Atlanta fans already panicking so much that it’s time to trash-talk the Mets? Oh dear…you guys really are in for another long season. It takes a lot of guts for a team that just picked up Redman off the scrap pile to boast that their rotation is better than anyone else’s. Let’s be reasonable, people….

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Hello friends and neighbors…

KC In regards to your question about the White Sox’s home park (U.S. Cellular Field) versus Citizen’s Bank Park in Philly, there is a ballpark rating at baseball-reference.com which I find interesting. The average rating of a ballpark is 100 (meaning it’s neither a pitcher’s park nor a hitter’s park). Anything above 100 favors the batters while anything under 100 favors the pitcher. The intent behind it is to give a qualitative comparison between the parks. I think that for most of the modern parks that are not fully enclosed, there are atmospheric and wind considerations that can vastly change how fly balls will carry (Wrigley being the most famous example, but to a lesser degree most everywhere else). Anyway, here’s how some selected ballparks are rated from the batter’s perspective from the 2006 season:

NL East Turner Field - 97 Shea Stadium - 95 Citizen’s Bank Park - 103 Dolphin’s Stadium - 95 RFK Stadium - 97

U.S. Cellular Field - 103 Wrigley Field - 104 Fenway Park - 102 Yankee Stadium - 95 New Busch Stadium - 98 Comerica Park - 99 Coors Field - 107 Great American Ballpark - 108 PNC Park - 100

Kind of interesting to see how each ballpark relates to others and I am mildly surprised that Cincy’s ballpark outscored Coors. Keep in mind that each park’s score changes from year-to-year.

Guys, I am very upbeat about Smoltz’s work on his change-up. The fact that he was able to strike out both Pujols and Rolen with called third strikes using a change is simply delightful. As long as he can consistantly get the change over, guys will be screwing themselves in the ground trying to hit it. He’s among the guys that could win the Cy Young without it, but with it, he’s got to be the front runner in my mind.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

The six starting pitchers for the Phillies are good but not great. Their teams with each respective pitcher have an average of .555 winning percentage when those guys take the hill over the last 3 or 4 years. That would only make for between 85-90 wins.

I think it is going to be a closely contested three way race to the finish. I think the Braves, Mets, and Phils all look like they will wi 85-90 games this year. I think the team that wins 90-93 games will take the division.

As I have said numerous times before, the way I see it is this: when Smoltz and Hudson start for the Braves over the last 2 years, the Braves have won 60% of those games even with Hudson not pitching great but still keeping his team in the game.

If that trend continues, and Smoltz and Hudson start roughly a combined 70 games, you are looking at a 42-28 record when those guys start for the games. It is the remaining 90 games we need to concern ourselves with.

The Braves also won 60% of the games started by James last year. If James starts 30 games this year and that trend continues, then they will be 18-12 when James starts.

Combining Smoltz, Hudson, and James, you are looking at 60 wins, 40 losses in their 100 games. What do they do with the remaining 62 games with the #4 and #5 starters?

If the #4 and #5 go .500, that would give the Braves another 31 wins and 31 losses. That would leave their record at 91-61 and with a division title. That’s the way I see this thing shaking out.

In addition, the Braves have won 60% of the games started by Hampton since he has been here. Say Hampton does not come back until June. Say Hampton makes 24 starts this year. Say in June and July, the Braves go 4-5 in Hampton’s starts before he warms it up and gets back into the flow and then the braves continue the trend of winning 60% of the games started by Hampton. This would leave the Braves with a record of 13-11 in Hampton’s 24 starts.

That would leave you with a combined 73-51 record with Smoltz, Hampton, Hudson, and James when they start.

Then you only have 38 games left for your #5 starters to pitch. Again, they go .500 and the Braves will finish with 92 wins and 70 losses.

By Robert

March 13, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

“Ladies and gentleman. That’s a trend.*

Get one more person involved, and ya got a movement

Or so says Arlo Guthrie

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Anyone (Met’s fans?) know anything about Alay Soler, whom the Mets just released? How old is he (one of those defectors with I guess no birth cert.)?

His minor league numbers are lights out. Apparently makes a little money for a minor leaguer ($600k), so the Mets cut him loose. Just curious…

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

It takes a lot of guts for a team that just picked up Redman off the scrap pile to boast that their rotation is better than anyone else’s.

Not so much really. Smoltz, Hudson, James, Davies, Redman is better than Patterson, _, _, _, _ of the Nationals. Or perhaps we should focus on the Royals rotation? Or, even the Mets… Glavine, Father Time, _, _, Sosa/Chan Ho. It takes a lot of guts for a team boasting Chan Ho and Sosa as options to come onto a Braves blog and point at Redman.

By MGL

March 13, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Spring Training ERA’s to date: Braves 3.32 Mets 4.94 Marlins 5.14 Phillies 6.13 Nats 7.05

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

no one is trashing the mets. the mets are trash. they can’t help it if that toxic waste dump of a stadium rubs off on their performance. gotta love those softball unis as well that they love sporting. and that black sunday jersey, oooooooooooh, so scary and gangsta. it’s pretty sad when your ugly black sunday jersey is the best looking jersey in the history of your sad franchise. Ben Affleck said about the Yankees when they got AROD, a $600 million dollar infield with AROD, Jeter, Giambi, and Posada and they still don’t have a second basemen yet. You could say that for the stinking Mets as well. All that money spent and the only quality pitcher they have is our leftovers. Where is the money going, Mets fans?

By Yars

March 13, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Why would the Braves want Javy Lopez, again? They have Pena as the back up catcher. Talking about how Atlanta should sign Javy Lopez is nothing but comedy. Maybe Kansas City or Tampa Bay will take a chance on him so he can be a mentor for some of their players. Regarding Chipper, opening day isn’t for another 20 days or so. He has plenty of time to get healthy. However, he needs some more at bats this spring since he has said so himself. The Braves are going to need him big time this season. The NL East is a strong division and my biggest concern is the Phillies, not the Mets. As for Atlanta, sure, I have a couple of concerns such as how 1B will play out. Is Scott Thorman an everyday player? Will Francoeur keep swinging at everything in sight? Will a Diaz/Langerhans platoon put up solid numbers? Will Tim Hudson prove to everyone that he can win 18-20 games, have an era under 4, and not lose his stamina after 5 innings? What about Kyle Davies? I have a feeling the Braves are slowly losing their patience with him. Believe it or not, the only concern I don’t have is in Kelly Johnson. I have a feeling he is going to surprise a lot of people & put up some impressive numbers. We always knew he could hit. Some were just worried on how he will adapt at 2B. He’s getting the job done, so far. If he gets 500 + at bats this season, I believe he will put up better numbers than Giles did last year. Hell, I bet he will put up better numbers than Giles will this year! KJ can hit for power, has a good eye at the plate, & has above average speed.

By flbravesgirl

March 13, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Ask & you shall receive, jimmy. :-)

Easy Fruit-topped Cheese Pie: Mix together 8-oz. cream cheese & 1/2 c. sugar ‘til creamy. Blend in 2 c. Cool Whip. Spread in 9” graham cracker crust. Top with 1 c. pie filling (blueberry is particularly good on this). Chill at least 3 hours.

Now baseball…I don’t understand why so many people are so quick to abuse Chipper. Up until the past few years he’d actually been pretty durable. And he’s still a darned good player when healthy.Do people think that someone could wave a magic wand over his feet & fix them but he doesn’t want to do that?

By Metropolitan Man

March 13, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

MBATL, Soler was a good pick up last year when we were pitcher depleted. But now we have so many arms this year, guys like him who would make the cut on a Royals team is dead weight to this METS camp. You see we have so many arms (young and old) that a guy who signed a 2 mil plus contract last year is just released. I dont know about you but when we release a guy like this and you guys pick up a guy like Redman, who is really dilusional????

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Daybed, I’ve always loved Frank Black, aka Black Francis, everything solo and of course his Pixies work.

By Metropolitan Man

March 13, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Braveheart: The money is being saved for the proper pieces for a Dynsasty. You cant pay for something now that wont be available until next year (Santana, Zambrano,) and another other elite pitchers pitchers who is on Omars radar. Also with an additional 20 mill a year from Citi Field naming rights I would say the METS saving pot is looking very good. Now it sarted with over paying for Pedro, Betran, and Wagner. Screw Zito whos best years are behind him. In three years the METS will have the best roatation ever put together becasue of availbale funds and availble players.

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

So I want to know what was seen in Rich Scalamandre. Why this guy, of all other guys? I’m sure the pickings were slim. We were dumping Sosa. We were thin on pitching and we still found it a better move to dump Sosa than keep him. One team traded for him. Another signs him and the fans start to drool. Alright, you got me. They were already drooling. It’s just what they do.

By Metropolitan Spam

March 13, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry my brudda Metroplitan Man iz soundin like a idiot…Dey just let him outz of da looney houz.

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

something now that wont be available until next year (Santana, Zambrano,)

Santana and Zambrano won’t be available. Wait, this is the Mets… did you mean Victor?

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan Man, thanks for a very political answer to a nonpolitical question. Just wondered about the guy… and still do.

Since you engaged me, though… if I were a Mets fan I’d be nervous. Green and Alou (does he really pee on his hands?) are both aging; Valentin will never repeat last year; Delgado has also seen his best years, and will probably struggle with nagging injuries, ala Chipper; and I do think your rotation is weak. Sanchez is a cancer that will do more harm than good; O Perez is riding one decent playoff performance to a starting job despite his miserable numbers (one good year out of 6, just like Sosa); and frankly I would take Redman over Sosa (certainly) or Perez (probably).

Now, you do have some nice young OF’s who can step in when Green and Alou fail, but they’re unproven at this level. Same with starting pitching. Not what you want when you’re trying to repeat as NL champs.

Some of the breaks will go your way, but a lot won’t, I predict. It’s gonna be a long year for the Mets.

I generally try to respect teams that win championships until my team (or another one) unseats them, so really don’t get into the ‘trash the Mets’ conversation unless prodded. Thanks for the opportunity!

By Spiderhoff

March 13, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Getting ready for opening day. Just unpacked my new Chipper bobblehead. It has what looks like a neck-brace on it. Is it safe to remove this brace? Is it some kind of Met voodoo? I need to be sure because I’m looking forward to Chipper having another Met killing season.

ps toes look fine.

By Metropolitan Man

March 13, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

I think you braves fans get the jist of everything I write. It may not make sense to you guys who cant see where things are headed but by being a METS fan, we see the bright future. You can take a entence here and there and dissect it but it doesnt change the fact that what I wrote will come to past. So thanks for recognizing our young outfileders but you better start paying attention to our young pitchers right now.

By Shaun

March 13, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Something to consider about the Chipper injury—I know he’s had his injury problems but there still about three weeks left until the regular season opener. If it’s a minor injury he should be healed by then. Nothing to freak out about yet.

By KC

March 13, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Starting rotations - BRAVES vs. METS:

1 - Smoltz / Glavine: Advantage Braves - Glavine is still good. Smoltz is still great.

2 – Hudson / Maine: Advantage Braves - This is assuming of course that Hudson continues what he’s started here in spring training, which I think is likely. I like John Maine. Not *quite as much as I like Chuck James, but I like him.

3 – James / O.Hernandez: Advantage Braves - It’s actually kind of hard to compare one better up & coming lefties in baseball to a recycled Yankees cast-off.

4 – Redman / Perez: Advantage Braves - Just going by the numbers here. Redman/Perez ERA’s last season… 5.71/6.55. Over the past 2 seasons… 5.29/6.22. None of those numbers are good, but Perez was worse.

5 – Davies/Pelfrey: ? - We’ll call it even. Both are thought to have great potential, but neither have had a full season at the big league level.

By KC

March 13, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Greg in TN: Interesting numbers on the ballparks. Thanks!

By Spiderhoff

March 13, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Here are the latest odds for NL East Champs from Sportsbook.com. I have never followed the odds through the season but, as Deep Throat told Woodard and Bernstein, follow the money.

2007 NL East Division -Odds to Win 09-30-07 8:00 PM

New York Mets 4-5

Philadelphia Phillies 2-1

Atlanta Braves 4-1

Florida Marlins 12-1

Washington Nationals 100-1

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 13, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

I just received my new Chipper Jones bobblehead, and it’s so lifelike—it bobbles at every joint, and has a bobblehead trainer on each side of it to help it stand up!…

By Metropolitan Spam

March 13, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Actually, when my brudda Metropolitan Man talkz aboutz Santana, he’z thinkin of our third cuzin Vinnie Santana from Philipo’s Used Honda Partz. You know, dats one of dose chop shopz across the street from Shea…Ask DOB, I bet he’z seen it when he goez up dere….Vinnie’s gotz a great left-arm and playz a mean game of stickball… Da Metz are plannin on signing him.

By Ricardo

March 13, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if the game is on the Boob Tube tonight? I thought I saw a schedule that included this game. Thanks.

By Metropolitan Spam

March 13, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

I iz sorry for my brudda Metroplitan Man’s bad grammer and spellin….When he said “jist” he meant to say “gist”…Jist is what youz get when…you knoz….Again, Iz sorry for my brudda.

By SoundsFamiliar

March 13, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

KC - Let’s be a little more honest:

1 - Smoltz / Glavine: Even - Both great competitors.

2 – Hudson / Maine: Advantage - METS. Yes, Mets. Compare last seasons’ stats, and Maine was the better pitcher—including a terrific postseason. Braves fans need to stop looking at what Hudson USED to do, and face what he is now—a pitcher in decline. Anyone can be an ace in spring training.

3 – James / O.Hernandez: Advantage Braves - But what Hernandez lacks in youth, he more than makes upfor in experience and game-savvy.

4 – Redman / Perez: Even. Both pitchers have a lot to prove. Let’s face it. Redman has as many problems as Perez does.

5 – Davies/Pelfrey: Advantage: METS. Pelfrey is a star on the rise, and after getting his feet wet last year, he appears to be making progress towards being a dependable big-league pitcher. And Davies is….Davies.

So, before you go hoisting your pennants just yet, KC, try to come back down to Earth. The Mets do have pitching issues, but your rotation is iffy at best—and don’t get me started on who’s more likely to come back as a big midseason contributor: a warrior like Pedro, or Princess Hampton.

By Lew

March 13, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

MetroDude-That’s one of the most absurd statements you’ve ever made. Saving the money for next year? For Zambrano and Santana? Give me a break. You don’t save for a down payment like you do for a household that’s making normal wages. Where’s all this money NOW. All we’ve heard for two years from the Mets’ fans is “We have more money than you do and we’re going to spend it. When? On Alou, Ruben Sierra and Jorge Sosa? Come on Dude, that’s preposterous. Santan is in contract extension negotiations with the Twins and so is Zambrano with the Cubs. The Cubs, at the very least, have just as much money as you claim the Mets do. They signed damn near everyone they tried to this winter. What happened to the Mets? Don’t be so sure about the Twins not ponying up the bucks, either. They will let Tori Hunter go and they already spent $$ to tie up Morneau and their catcher, too, whose name escapes me at the moment. You may not even get the chance to bid on Santana. Waiting til next year-yeah, right.

By sammy miller

March 13, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

I was getting out of the shower today and my ankle got bit also!

By KC

March 13, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

MBATL: I don’t mean to argue, but since when is a 4.63 ERA with an average of 5-2/3 innings per start a “decent” post-season??? I’d call Perez’s post-season performancec below average, myself.

By sammy miller

March 13, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

hey sounds familiar you suk!

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP

By Brad

March 13, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Excuse me all that i am wondering is why would the Braves take a chance on Bryan Pena who has nothing but the glove to offer the Braves, when there is someone who said that the only team that he would play backup cathcer for was the Braves and that is long time Braves Javy Lopez. I would love to see Javy Lopez back with the Braves and Chipper,Andruw,& Smoltz, just let’m play together before they all retire.

By Brad

March 13, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Excuse me all that i am wondering is why would the Braves take a chance on Bryan Pena who has nothing but the glove to offer the Braves, when there is someone who said that the only team that he would play backup cathcer for was the Braves and that is long time Braves Javy Lopez. I would love to see Javy Lopez back with the Braves and Chipper,Andruw,& Smoltz, just let’m play together before they all retire.

By Brad

March 13, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Excuse me all that i am wondering is why would the Braves take a chance on Bryan Pena who has nothing but the glove to offer the Braves, when there is someone who said that the only team that he would play backup cathcer for was the Braves and that is long time Braves Javy Lopez. I would love to see Javy Lopez back with the Braves and Chipper,Andruw,& Smoltz, just let’m play together before they all retire.

By Anonymous

March 13, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Remember last year when Chipper sprained his ankle down in San Fransico at the beginning of the year. He stayed out for weeks. I hope this one isn’t as serious.

By Rodger

March 13, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

I think the Santana they want is Carlos! He’s going to update the “Meet the Mutts” song!

By rfk

March 13, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

how come there is never any coverage of the local college teams like ksu, gsu or the yellowjackets?

By Rodger

March 13, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

rfk, this is the Braves/Man in Black blog!

Just note-Owls almost beat Dawgs in b-ball, beat ‘em in baseball!