Braves

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s take a lesson from Hemingway and the way he wrote reverentially about the great Joe D. during the injury ravaged twilight of his career when we talk and think about Chipper:

“The Braves cannot lose.” “But I fear the Mets of New York.” “Have faith in the Braves my son. Think of the great Chipper.” “I fear both the Phillies of Philadelphia and the Mets of New York.” “Be careful or you will fear even the Nationals of D.C. and the Marlins of Miami.”

“Tell me about the baseball,” the boy asked him. “In the National League, it is the Braves as I said,” the old man said happily. “They lost today,” the boy told him. “That means nothing. The great Chipper is himself again.” “They have other men on the team.” “Naturally. But he makes the difference.”

“I would like to take the great Chipper hunting,” the old man said. “They say his father was a hunter. Maybe he was as poor as we are and would understand.”

“But I must have confidence and I must be worthy of the great Chipper who does all things perfectly even with the pain of the bunions in his toes. What is a bunion? He asked himself. Un espuela de hueso. We do not have them. Can it be as painful as the spur of a fighting c** in one’s toe? I do not think I could endure that or the loss of the eye and continue to fight as the fighting cocks do. Man is not much beside the great birds and beasts. Still I would rather be that beast down there in the darkness of the sea. Unless sharks come. If sharks come, God pity him and me. Do you believe the great Chipper would stay with a deer as long as I will stay with this one? he thought. I am sure he would and more since he is young and strong. Also his father was a hunter. But would the bunion hurt him too much? I don’t know. I never had a bunion.

I need a pencil for that. My head is not that clear. But I think the great Chipper would be proud of me today. I had no bunions but the hands and the back hurt truly. I wonder what a bunion is. Maybe we have them without knowing of it.

Don’t think old man. Sail on this course and take it when it comes. But I must think because it is all I have left. That and baseball. I wonder how the great Chipper would have liked the way I hit him in the brain. It was no great thing. Any man could do it. But do you think my hands were as great a handicap as the bunions? I cannot know. I never had anything wrong with my toes.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 13, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

If Chipper hadn’t made a joke of his offseason diet and conditioning regimen by bragging about how it consisted of cheeseburgers and shakes, just maybe more people would have been willing to give him the benefit of the doubt when it comes to his oft injuries!…

By ElbravoX

March 13, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Why must you call Chipper Hoss? So childish.

By stynes

March 13, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

I’m with you entirely, DOB. Another thing to add to the list of things to love about Hoss: he left money on the table. He sacrificed to give the Braves flexibility to resign Furcal a couple of years ago. Even if it didn’t happen, he did what he could to make it happen.

And another thing. When the whole Hooters girl stuff hit, he took it like a man. He sat down, faced the cameras, and faced the music, so to speak. He admitted that he screwed up. Said it wouldn’t happen again. And even took questions, if I remember correctly.

He’s not perfect. Heck, nobody is. But I’m glad he’s on our team.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

I would not say that chipper has come up short during the postseason at all.

Just look at his postseason stats: .288, .411, .459, .870 OPS. 18 doubles, 13 home runs, 58 runs, 72 walks, 47 RBIs, 8 stolen bases in 92 games.

Looks like Chipper is Chipper in the postseason as well.

Any slight decrease in performance as opposed to the regular season is merely because he is facing the best pitchers in baseball when he plays in the postseason.

But he still holds his own as a clutch top notch performer in the playoffs.

And do not dare tell me about individual games or individual series where he underperformed.

Isolating 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 game stretches of a player’s career is not the way you measure a player.

During the course of his career in the postseason he has not come up short.

By Renegator

March 13, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

I’m really just looking forward to hearing Skip say “Chopper to Chipper” Anyone with me?

By jh

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

I respect what Chipper has done and hopefully he can stay healthy this year like he used to — but I agree 100% with TheSouthernJackAss…He brought some of this wrath on himself with his recent proclamation that working out hard and following a strict diet didn’t help last year, so he went the lazy route this offseason. He should be working out harder as he gets older, not less. I’m 46 and no pro athelete by any means, but it sounded like I take my training regime more serious than Chipper.

By Epinephrine

March 13, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Right on DOB

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

DOB: nice little tidbit on frenchy with the two Bills and making sure that he got autographs for the two Braves employees. Classy, thoughtful, selfless touch by Frenchy.

By StingerSplash

March 13, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Injuries is a part of the game. That Chipper has gone this long is amazing enough. Think of some of the would-have-been-greats — Eric Davis, Bo Jackson (good night, what would he have done had he stayed healthy), Pete Reiser, Tony Conigliaro. Chipper ain’t trying to get hurt. Even at my age, and I’m not that much older than Chipper, my bad knee, hip, ankle and elbow from basketball keep me awake at night. Chipper detractors, do this — make a list of third basemen, current ones, you’d take over him right now, right this very instant. How long’s the list?

By Lew

March 13, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Rene-(I refuse to acknowledge the Gator in you-I’m too good a Dawgs’ fan)-I’m ready. I know Skip won’t be on TBS this year, but how many games is TBS televising? Any more word on the cable/direct TV thing? Has anyone heard? I know DTV has not advertised yet.

By StingerSplash

March 13, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Is Lucinda married to Mark Olson, ex of The Jayhawks, and if so, do they perform at all together (they used to have the Original Honey Ridge Creekdippers, if I’m not mistaken).

By dale in newnan

March 13, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Fair-weather fans, do us all a favor and go ahead and jump off the band wagon. Chipper, unlike a certain so-called celebrity qb, has always produced, and put the team first. Remember when he restructurred his salary a couple of years ago to help out? Did mv7 ? A little respect for the REAL professionals in this town. Just like Nique you are gonna miss him when he is gone.

By Gdaddy84

March 13, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Just found this blog a couple days ago and haven’t done any of my accounting homework since, thanks a lot DOB and regulars. I do have a couple questions:

1. Why does DOB call Chipper Hoss?
2. Whats w/ all the toes talk? (another Chipper feet ref.?)
3. Does anyone know of a good ATL sports radio station w/ Braves talk that streams over the web?

Anyway, since I have nothing to do all day except sit around and play 2k7 I will probably begin posting here more. Its tons better than the Braves website message boards. Not that any of you care.

By Novice Ned

March 13, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Using Griffey and Drew as yard sticks, huh?

OK. Compared to Janet Reno, every woman I have ever dated is of the Jessica Alba/Beyonce quality. With Rodman or Larry Legend as my barometer, I am personally the best looking man on the planet. Relative to a ‘73 AMC Pacer, my oil guzzling Passat is a 2007 Jaguar XJR. And when matched against the exploits of Willie Nelson or Snoop Dogg, I’m the male version of Mother Theresa. And when measured against Pete Babcock, Billy Knight is, oops, that one doesn’t work.

And Chipper plays in fewer than 125 games this season.

By MS

March 13, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

I don’t think people truly appreciate the numbers Chipper put up last year, even with his injuries. There were only 6 3B in all of MLB who had more HR’s than Chipper, and they all had at least 540 AB’s, compared to Chipper’s 411. Think about that, .326-26-86 in only 411 games. That’s almost a full season’s worth of production in about 2/3 the AB’s!

Chipper’s numbers from last year are simply remarkable for the number of games he played. I’ll still take the combination of Chipper for 110 games and Willy Aybar for 50 games over most 3rd basemen in the game. (Although I think/hope it’ll be closer to 140 for Hoss)

By ernesto

March 13, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

What’s up with AJC’s love of the Chipper crotch shot?

By Chop Chop

March 13, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s one of the best players this organization has ever had. That being said, he’s never again going to be a guy who plays 150+ games a year. He’s in his mid-30s and, while his bat hasn’t declined at all, his toes apparently have. This sprained ankle isn’t a big deal, but the last two injury-plagued years have put Chipper into the category of “oft-injured” in the minds of most sane Braves fans out there. The resulting uproar on the blog is a direct result of that…and because of the people who just flat don’t like the guy and who will take any opportunity to jump in and rag on him.

Anyway, you very rarely see guys at Chipper’s age suddenly become healthy again in their final years as a player. All the HGH and steroids in the world can’t make his bunions go away, so he can’t even cheat to get himself in the lineup more often. If Chipper is penciled into the lineup for 130 games, that would be great. If not, the last two years are a pretty good barometer of what he can do.

By Renegator

March 13, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I haven’t seen anything about the TV coverage yet. I hate that we are losing TBS because that is the only channel that has Braves games that I get in HD. Boo!

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

hey, dale, 38-28-1 with MV7.

w/o vick the all time falcons winning percentage is .400.

i’m sticking with vick just like i’m sticking with chipper.

get a clue and some perspective, dude.

we are gonna miss vick when he is gone just like we missed nique. vick is far from perfect but get a clue already. geez. sounds like you need to heed you fair weather fan lesson yourself

By Sir Stealth

March 13, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Chipper is yet another in a long list of Atlanta athletes that a large (bigger than I often like to admit) of “fans” around here don’t deserve. Hall of Famer. Team player. Winner all his life. Life-long Atlanta Brave. If you don’t like Bobby and you don’t like Chipper, then I simply don’t consider you a fan of the Braves. Sorry.

By MS

March 13, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Should have been 411 AB’s in my post above, and not games, although you all probably figured that out.

By KC

March 13, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Sounds Familiar: You’re really going to lecture me about honesty, and follow it up with statements like this:

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

Yes, they are both great competitors. But “even”?? Nope. Over the past 2 seasons:

Smoltz: 30-16, 3.25 ERA… opposing OBP for last two seasons: .287/.298

Glavine 28-20, 3.67 ERA… opposing OBP for last two seasons: .330/.325

I will add that Smoltz’s numbers have been diminished a bit over the past two season by lack of bullpen support. He should have easily won 20 games last season, and when the bullpen doesn’t take care of inherited runners, it affects your bullpen.

Glavine is still very good. They’re not worlds apart… until the post-season. Jim Leyland recently said Smoltz is the best post-season pitcher he’s ever seen, hands down. He’s right. If you look at the numbers, Smoltz is the most prolific post-season pitcher in baseball history. Glavine’s October numbers are not even as good as his regular season stats… let alone a step up.

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

Thanks for the laugh! I needed that. Their ERA’s last year were almost a full run apart. Veteran guile doesn’t make up for that.

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

Look… I’ll certainly grant you that they belong in the same category. Both had excellent seasons 3 years ago, but have been unable to recapture the magic, and both have had very high ERA’s of late. The fact remains that Redman’s ERA over the past two seasons is almost a full run lower than Perez’s over that same stretch.

“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.”

Dude, you must have a crystal ball up you’re a$$. Could you email me the winning lotto numbers please? Davies made only a handful of healthy starts in each of the last 2 seasons (he was not at all healthy in the few starts he made late last year coming off injury). He’s been considered the Braves’ top pitching prospect for a couple years now. He has not had a full, or even a half-season in the majors as of yet. Davies and Pelfrey belong in the same category. They’re two guys with a world of potential that haven’t proven anything yet.

I’ll save my response to the Hudson vs. Maine thing for another post… this one’s long enough as it is.

By Charlie Hatton

March 13, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

The only valid excuse I can think of for folks jumping the gun a little about Chipper’s injury is the realization of how much he means to the team.

The Braves lost some power in LaRoche and Giles that isn’t likely to be regained (this year) by their replacements. Jones ‘n’ Jones is a powerful one-two punch, but Andruw still has too many holes in his swing to be ‘the guy’, and hitters like McCann and Francoeur aren’t quite solid and experienced enough to step into elite status, either. Chipper’s a legit .300-30-100 guy when healthy (as he’s shown), and the effects of that production — or lack thereof, when absent — reverberate up and down the lineup.

That said, it’s pretty clear that the sky is not falling just yet, and Chipper’s ankle tweak has little to do with his various chronic ailments. Take a deep breath, relax, and go back to work on voodoo incantations that will heal Hampton’s oblique. That’s where we need the help right now.

Charlie / Bugs & Cranks

By Sir Stealth

March 13, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Chipper is yet another in a long list of Atlanta athletes that a large (bigger than I often like to admit) of “fans” around here don’t deserve. Hall of Famer. Team player. Winner all his life. Life-long Atlanta Brave. If you don’t like Bobby and you don’t like Chipper, then I simply don’t consider you a fan of the Braves. Sorry.

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

I’d doubt that Chipper will be in the lineup tonight (hope I’m wrong, but even the mildest of sprains barks for a couple of days, and why push it?).

As to comparisons of Chipper to other injury prone players, Garciaparra might be a good comparison. He’s been a little more broken down than Chipper, at a slightly younger age, but had a pretty good year (469 abs) last year. And might be moving to 3B this year if our boy Wilson doesn’t nail down the job!

By Chop Chop

March 13, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Chipper puts up great numbers when he’s in the lineup. The problem is that he has now moved into the “oft-injured” category of players. He cannot be counted on to be out there for 150 games. At best, we can hope for 120. If he weren’t such a good hitter, his contract would be a millstone around the neck of the organization. Unfortunately, all the HGH and steroids in the world can’t fix the man’s feet, so if we lower our expectations of Chipper Jones, we might be pleasantly surprised.

By kdbanks

March 13, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

DOB -

The reason so many fans are piling on Chipper is obviously that Braves Nation has given their full support to Willy Aybar, and can you blame them? After what Willy has meant to this team over the years, to see some punk kid who’s never done anything twist an ankle and not get cut immediately is ridiculous. Oh wait.

By kdbanks

March 13, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

DOB -

The reason so many fans are piling on Chipper is obviously that Braves Nation has given their full support to Willy Aybar, and can you blame them? After what Willy has meant to this team over the years, to see some punk kid who’s never done anything twist an ankle and not get cut immediately is ridiculous. Oh wait.

By kdbanks

March 13, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

DOB -

The reason so many fans are piling on Chipper is obviously that Braves Nation has given their full support to Willy Aybar, and can you blame them? After what Willy has meant to this team over the years, to see some punk kid who’s never done anything twist an ankle and not get cut immediately is ridiculous. Oh wait.

By JK

March 13, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

So no talk of Chipper’s injury history. No talk of that speedy LF in Tamba. No talk of trading Salty or having him bat clean-up in ATL this year over Andruw.

How ‘bout the spring that Prado is having?

By Jason

March 13, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Ive got a question DOB thats unrelated to the present topic. Seeing how well Escobar is hitting and how poorly Kelly Johnson is hitting, any chance that Escobar could get the 2nd base job? I realize that Escobar is a SS by trade but his talent is becoming hard to ignore! Just Speculating! Jason

By TRobb

March 13, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Why is Chipper “Hoss”? Because when he’s on the field, hitting third and playing third, he’s our Hoss. And a dang good one, I’d say.

It’s those feet. I hope he stays healthy. .400 OBP and .600 SLG doesn’t grow on trees.

Got eight for opening Friday night against the Mets. Bringing the whole extended family. It’s a shame we have to wait three more weeks. I’m ready for the season to start now!

By Jeff

March 13, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

My friend has a dog named Chooper that I want to golf balls to just so I can say “Chipper to Chopper” 2 away.

By kdbanks

March 13, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the multiple posts, y’all. Computer glitches.

By ellaguru

March 13, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Dang it, we should’ve signed Todd van Poppel. I knew it.

Restructuring a contract is a nice thing to do and Chipper is to be commended for it. But much more than that, in my opinion, is what he displayed to the team and the fans when he made the move to Left Field so we could sign Castilla. This is not what Hall of Fame 3rd basemen do but Chipper did.

O’Brien, another shot at the Gators? We’re on a collision course with the Jayhawks, looks like. I do hope you’ll not fret too much over missing Kansas play Northwest Southeast Nebraska AM&N. Now, Florida/Jackson State could be a donnybrook.

Have “fun” at Lucinda. I think if you go see her they should give you a bottle of whiskey and a revolver with one bullet in it. Lucinda does a song, you do a slug from the bottle and give ‘er a spin. By the 6th or 7th song you might be hoping there’s one in the chamber :)

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Greetin’s folks,

Wow, Chipper roots for the Gators? May have to re-think what I’ve said to this point… (kidding, for the most part)

I personally think Chipper deserves the benefit of the doubt, but hey, that’s just me. And like I said to N8 last night, if I’m wrong, I’ll be right here saying I’m wrong.

Huddy toils again tonight against the Astros. According to the Braves website, SportsSouth (formerly Turner South for those still chuckling over the renaming irony) has the telecast.

I’m as anxious to see a spring training broadcast as I’ve ever been, so this is like a drop of water to a dehydrated man in the desert.

Go Braves!

By Thrillhouse44

March 13, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

I always thought it was wrong to label Atlanta as a bad sports town, but what other city could hate on a guy who has a career average of .304, 357 homers, and almost 1200 RBI? And as it’s been noted throughout the blogs, he’s re-worked his contract for the good of the organization. Man, Chipper’s given his best to this team, yet so many people dog him out. I agree with DOB, I think we should pull for him until he gives us a reason not to.

By Spider29

March 13, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Chipper has never been one of my favorite players. But I do respect what he can do for the Braves when he is healthy. He can (and has) carried the team for long stretches. He seems determined to play most games this season and I commend him for that attitude. Hopefully he will take tonight off as a precaution. As for Hampton, I have always liked the guy and have been really disappointed with the injury situation. I want to be optimistic here and predict that he will be a big contributer in the second half of the season.

By ElbravoX

March 13, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

So we should then call Smoltz Mr. Cy-flame thrower? We can call him gimpy or stud but why should a reporter who is paid to report without bias anoint him a superlative?

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else ever get the feeling that there is a small contingent of fans who would love nothing more than for this team to be nothing more than a glorified AAA team? It is so strange. So enamored with prospects and minor leaguers. The funny thing is that they are so in love with those prospects now but once they are brought up, the same people will start saying hey Dave what about this obscure so and so kid, what do you think about him? Can we push out my formerly beloved kid just because he is a vet now and because I happen to love minor leaguers more than the guys actually on the team?

By KC

March 13, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

“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.”

I’m sure you want to believe that. Desperately.

Hey listen, I included a caveat in my comparison between these two. You are absolutely correct in saying that Maine was better than Hudson last season. And I freely admitted that if Hudson gives us nothing more than a repeat performance of last season… the advantage there belongs to the Mets.

HOWEVER…

There is every reason to believe that Hudson’s 2006 season was nothing more than a fluke. Top-tier pitchers like Roger Clemens, Mike Mussina, Kevin Brown, John Smoltz and others have had a season like that somewhere in the middle of their prime for no apparent reason. But in every instance I could find where this happened with a top-tier starter, they bounced right back the following season.

Heading into last season, Hudson was the second-winningest active pitcher in baseball, and had finished in the top 15% of all MLB starters in ERA ever year of his career (except for his sophomore season… and he won 20 games that year).

What happened in 2006? Who the hell knows. As simplistic as this sounds… he was just out of sync. His mechanics kept getting out of whack, which after a while, probably started messing with his head and his confidence as well. If that’s really all it is (and considering he was and is healthy and had the same stuff he had back in Oakland, that seems safe to say)… a few winter months away from everything is probably the best medicine.

Anyway, if I’m not mistaken, Hudson has only allowed the ball out of the infield on one or two occasions so far this spring. He’s getting ground ball after ground ball (largely unlike last year). It’s that, and not just the 1 ER through 2 starts, that I find so encouraging.

I personally think we’re going to see a very solid season from Hudson this year. But maybe you’re right. Maybe what we’ve seen so far means nothing, and his sinker’s going to flatten out again soon. You’d better hope so.

By ncscoots

March 13, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

Never have so many whined so much about so little. How does a sprain that wouldn’t even keep the guy out of a single regular season game give rise to “he’ll only play 100 games”? I confess, I must have missed logic class the day THAT was taught.

Keep the guy off wet fields in April, and then we can see if his feet are going to cause him major problems or not.

By Summerteeth

March 13, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the heads up about the Son Volt record….sounds great so far and better than Okemah for sure.

Be sure and get that neww Hobex off iTunes…Enlightened Soul…well worth it my friend.

By KebMo

March 13, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

I think Chipper has been a great “value” to the Braves. Even if he plays only a 100 games this year, if you look over his career and what he has been paid, we would all sign him up again today. A great career!!! BUT…when I read that he is not into Waylon or Hank…let’s waive this SOB

By Booger

March 13, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

It’s been awhile. Tonight we have a broadcast game and all eyes will be on the dugout to see if Bobby is ready for the season. Will he be pickin’ or will he behave? Sure, it’s a sticky subject but you know it’s going to come out. And when it does, you know that something must be done with it. Let’s hope it won’t soil the uniform. Tonight you have a choice - radio or television. You pick. Enjoy the game!

By KC

March 13, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

“I’m really just looking forward to hearing Skip say “Chopper to Chipper” Anyone with me?”

YEAH! I was excited when Chipper moved from LF back to 3B for that very reason. Tradition man… tradition.

By Lew

March 13, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

If you look realistically at Chipper’s injuries, you may get a different take on the situation. His hamstring problems were strictly a result of his switching to the outfield-you just start running a lot differently. He has not had a recurrence in two years since returning to third. Last season he sprained his ankle and knee sliding on a field that was in terrible shape. It could have happened to anyone. You simply cannot blame a player for sprained ankles and knees. It happens. As for his oblique injury-it was probably the result of trying to come back too soon from the ankle/knee and caused stress on his oblique. Then he came back too quickly from it. The only cure is rest and he didn’t take enough time because the team needed him. How much time has he really missed as a result of his toe problem, which is his ONLY recurring injury? A week maybe, over two years? Give the guy a break. If he can play 130 games this year (and that’s still TWO stretches on the 15 day DL), he will be more valuable than any other third baseman in the NL. Hands down.

By Brad in KY

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

DOB

I think you’re uncharitable to suggest that everyone is just waiting for Chipper to break down so that we can all pile on. And trotting out Chipper’s career stats isn’t really helpful because everyone is very aware at how valuable Chipper was for the first decade of his career.

The reason everyone is annoyed at the current turn of events is that it seems we’ve been through this so many times before. Chipper’s injuries seem always to begin as the nagging sort that’ll keep him out for a game or two before turning into something worse.

In addition, this season, once again, the Braves have much invested in Chipper and need him as much as they ever did to stay in the lineup. Regardless of what he did prior to the last three seasons, we simply cannot ignore that they’re there, and unfortunately those seasons have been injury-filled ones for Chipper. The reason for concern is that in all probability Chipper will miss many games due to injury this season all the while demanding a large chunk of the Braves payroll.

And the fact of the matter is that the Braves are paying him to play baseball games - not to be a bench coach nor a spokesperson nor a living legend. His value to the Braves today is right where it was in the past - on the playing field. And that’s where we’d all like to see him about 150 times this season.

By MS

March 13, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

You nailed it at 3:59, Braveheart. You’ve got to have a blend of both and the way the roster is looking now seems to be a prefect mix. You’ve got the vets (Smoltz, Hudson, Renteria, the Joneses, Wickman) the young up and comers with some experience (McCann, Francouer, James, Gonzo, Soriano) and then the unproven young guys with “potential” (Johnson, Thorman, Davies, McBride). With today’s economics in baseball the way they are, you have to have a good blend of vets, young guys, and rookies to stay competitive over the long haul and this Braves team is set up to do just that (and has done so for 15 years).

By KC

March 13, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Correction to 3:21 post… meant to say “when the bullpen doesn’t ever take care of inherited runners, it affects the starter’s ERA”.

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

thrillhouse44, good point. Really, though, I don’t think the city of Atlanta or Braves fans in general are down on Chipper.

Blogworld is not the real world. Us guys (huh?) who take the time and expend the energy to post here are a little more passionate, a little more opinionated, and a little more critical, than the average Braves fan, I suspect.

Chipper may get mixed reviews on this blog, but from what I have seen, gets pretty strong applause down at the Ted.

I agree, btw. Chipper is a great player and the consummate professional. He’s a jock and a little bit of a redkneck (not in a bad way - he likes to hunt and fish - so do I!), thus the ‘Hoss’ nickname, but what do we want, a Renaissance Man to play 3B?

By krath

March 13, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

I’m not slamming Chipper’s desire or dedication. Nor am I insinuating that he is something lower than whale fecal matter. He has meant all of the things you said to the Braves, DOB. Probably one of the most admirable things he has done is restructure his contract to free up money for other team needs.

But consider this. After last season if Chipper had been a free agent, would the team have given him a vote of confidence in his ability to stay injury free by signing him to a “market value” contract?

As I posted yesterday, I’m firmly convinced that Chipper doesn’t want to be hurt and would love to play 150 games. I just don’t think it’s gonna happen.

To me… anything over 125 games will be gravy this year. I’m expecting more like what he’s done the last couple of years. (110)

That scenario is not good for Chipper nor for the Braves. Just the way I see it.

I’ll be sorry for Chipper if he gets hurt. I’ll be sorry for myself as a Braves fan because a healthy Chipper makes this team more dangerous.

By KC

March 13, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Mets fans should be watching tonight’s Braves game with great anxiety. If Hudson looks sharp again tonight, that will bode very well for the Braves and very badly for the Mets.

By Brad in KY

March 13, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Baseball players age fast. Even the best peak in their late twenties. Some organizations realize this and know that younger players often offer better bang for the buck.

Obviously, if you have a choice between players that will produce at approximately the same level, but that one can do so at a fraction of the cost, you want to go with the cheaper option. Usually this is a younger prospect-type player although older veterans can sometimes fill the bill.

This, I think, is why some people are enamored with minor league players and prospects. Also, a healthy farm system usually means a healthy organization.

The problem with the current methods for managing an organization in this way is that it runs up against baseball’s history and our sentimental attachments. We’d like to think that all players will turn out like Smoltz or Chipper and spend Hall of Fame caliber careers with the same team, producing like champs until the very end. But they are clearly a dying breed and I suspect there will be few, if any, players like them in the future (with the exception perhaps being a team like the Yankees that can afford to keep aging, and expensive, veterans around).

And Smoltz, I might add, is still here because he’s a bargain basement deal of a #1 starter. He could command tons of money on the open market and the Braves would never be able to afford him.

By tp

March 13, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Pretty funny Booger!

Did you ever catch Leo digging for gold? He’d hold his finger in the air and dip his nose into it as he swayed back and forth.

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, your 2:19 was absolutely classic. Definitely belongs in this blog’s HOF.

Yes, ellaguru, I sometimes wonder if folks here would’ve been happier with Van Poppel. Good lord. And while I love Vick, think how great the falcons could be if he’d just defer a few of those millions…oh, well.

Gdaddy84, if you’re planning on hanging out, you’ll be privy to the toe talk. Here’s the first (and perhaps most important) lesson: Toes are not to be trifled with.

KC, I agree with your pitching breakdown except for the Pelfry/Davies comparison. Davies hasn’t shown me squat to suggest he’s better than Pelfry (or even my 13-year old cousin Jennifer, for that matter). There’s optimism, and then there’s just talking smack for the sake of it. If Pelfry can get a pitch over the plate 3 times out of 10 without having to run and change his…(it’s early in the day, I’ll be nice)…feminine hygiene product, I’d say the honest man has to give the nod to Pelfry. Sorry, Davies; if you don’t like my comments they’ll disappear if you learn to pitch like a man.

Where’s Bob?

By Glass Half Full

March 13, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

DOB

If a player retires with one or more years left on a contract, is the contract voided or does the club still pay the guy?

By Dave in Tampa

March 13, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it. The Braves fans are not the ones complaining about Chipper, it’s the Mets fans. They hate the fact that he “OWNS” their pitching staff for over 10 years. I’d complain and make fun of him too if I were a Mets fan. Thank the good Lord that I’m not a Mets fan. That’s too awful to even fathom. Go Chipper and Go Braves!

By eric the elder

March 13, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

I hope Chipper stays healthy and plays well for the Braves for the next 20 years.

That said, I’m not ready to enshrine Chipper into sainthood. For one thing, I’ve been disappointed for years at what seems to be a lack of team leadership. Yes, he leads by example, and no I don’t know what goes on in the tunnel. Perhaps I’m comparing him unfairly to Pendleton, who came here and almost single-handedly led this team to success.

I’m also not impressed with his contract restructuring. Unless I’m mistaken, he didn’t lose a penny - - just deferred it. At his level of income, I don’t think he will be too hurt by setting aside a few million until later.

By the hawks r cursed for trading Nique

March 13, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks we should cut chipper is a idiot. Hes ment alot to this franchise and i hope he retires a Brave. Same for Andrew!! getting Hampton was the WORST move scherhultz has ever made..hes not a big game pitcher!…and because of his contract we cant afford Glavine…and soon wont be able to afford Andrew…for any true braves fans out there….this sucks! I hope hampton is hurt by posteason again because we pretty much loose every playoff game hes ever started for us. Anyone else remember him starting over smoltz(who was closer at the time) in that game 5 against houston. I know Bobbys 2 by the books to start his closer(even if hes one of the best starters ever in postseason!)…but he really made the wrong choice that day and i knew it before the game even started. Smoltz ended up being a non factor as the game was over by the time we got hamptons sorry a$$ out of there. Ive never forgot that and never will…i wish we could trade hampton back to the mets and get glavine back!! Go Braves!!

By Lew

March 13, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Eric-Chipper didn’t defer money. He changed option years into guaranteed years at less money than he had been making per year. I think it extended his contract for two more years. Again, people (not just you Eric), I say look at his injuries. Does a hamstring problem that has not recurred intwo years point to being injury prone? How about a sprained ankle and knee? No-they were totally circumstantial. I repeat-His only recurring injury is his toe problem, for which he has missed only a handful of games over two years. I think his toes should forcew him to take an occaisonal day off, but why should it cause him to miss significant time now when it hasn’t in the past?

By MGL

March 13, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

Breveheart, your 3:59. I’m with you 100%. It amazes me how so many people are willing to throw away experienced players (even young ones like KJ and Thorman) for the latest minor league player that hits over .300 for a week. Escobar was very WEAK in Miss. last year. Just because he hits for high AVG in AZ and ST, doesn’t make him A-Rod. Salty has shown that he can hit barely over the Mendoza line for a season in AA. The James Jurries ST numbers last year are another perfect example. April and May a lot of people wanted to throw LaRoche into the dumpster and bring up Jurries. Look at his performance last year in the minors and ST this year. I’m gland the the decisions are made by JS, BC, and company.

By N8

March 13, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

eric the elder

You said:

“I’m also not impressed with his contract restructuring. Unless I’m mistaken, he didn’t lose a penny - - just deferred it. At his level of income, I don’t think he will be too hurt by setting aside a few million until later.”

He actually “potentially” lost money on the deal. What he did do however, was save the Braves money NOW, but cost them money down the road. I believe either the last 2 or maybe the last 3 years of his contract were “option years”. With his “restructuring” it made ALL OF THOSE OPTION YEARS GUARANTEED. So, while saving the Braves money temporarily, it may have cost them money later, especially if Chipper goes down hill (health wise) fast. Those option years would’ve been nice to have as an “out”. At the same time for Chipper, when they were made into guaranteed years, they were guaranteed at LESS than what the options were for. So let’s say he stays healthy and TEARS IT UP, he might’ve cost himself some money.

By Rodger

March 13, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

*Dude, you must have a crystal ball up you’re a$$. Could you email me the winning lotto numbers please? *

KC man, you just about killed me with that one.

I think the Santana they want is Carlos! He’s going to update the “Meet the Mutts” song!

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Eric… aargh! I always balk at this leadership issue.

For one thing, I’ve been disappointed for years at what seems to be a lack of team leadership. Yes, he leads by example…

What, exactly, constitutes a “leader” on a baseball team, besides showing up ready to play every day, playing to the best of one’s ability, and sharing advice with younger teammates? From everything I know, Chipper does all that. And is widely considered a good friend by his fellow players. Is he supposed to teach them the art of laying down a bunt, too?

Yes, he leads by example,… What better kind of leadership is there? I was taught that leadership by example is pretty much the only kind that counts!

Does Jeter give Come to Jesus speeches in the lockerroom? Does Pujols hold self-improvement clinics at his home in the offseason? No, they show up and play the game like professionals. If the young guys aren’t smart enough to garner something from that, then they’re probably not gonna succeed anyway.

As to money, I think Lew just addressed that accurately.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

ElbravoX, I didn’t “anoint” him with a superlative, I gave him a damn nickname. You know, it wouldn’t be the first time a reporter gave a player a nickname, or the 1,000th time for that matter. Many of the best nicknames came from writers (and I’m not at all insinuating this is a great one; it’s just a nickname. If you don’t want to call him that, don’t. Call him Bob for all I care.)

Anyway, Hoss is in the lineup tonight. Wasn’t in original lineup, but came in and told Bobby he felt fine. So Bobby put him in there.

Half the regulars won’t make the trip to Kissimmee for road game tomorrow, including him.

By Lew

March 13, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Eric-One more thing. He may not be a candidate for enshrinement in the halls of sainthood, but he didn’t have to do what he did. In these days of “All about me” and “I want FAIR market value”, Chipper said, “Look, we have team needs and by doing thisd I may be able to help”. I repeat. He didn’t have to do this, but he did. Did it leave him searching for ways to feed his family? No. But he didn’t have to do it and did anyway. That counts for something these days.

By MGL

March 13, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

For all of you Betemit lovers, Wilson went 2 for 3 with a strike out to improve his ST stats to a robust .192AVG, .250OBP, and a .231SLG. only downside was is K % is now up to 27%.

By N8

March 13, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

Lew

You know I don’t wanna argue, right? LOL!

Just for the record, I’m off of my “Chipper’s gonna get hurt”, campaign. After this post, I will no longer be discussing this topic again.

Lew, you said:

“I repeat-His only recurring injury is his toe problem, for which he has missed only a handful of games over two years. I think his toes should forcew him to take an occaisonal day off, but why should it cause him to miss significant time now when it hasn’t in the past?”

Have you ever had ANY injury to any “moving” part on your body? Now, no matter how “serious” that injury was, did it cause you to ALTER the way you used that “part”.

I’m not saying that it’s a guarantee. But Chipper himself has stated that the foot hurts. He needs surgery to correct it, but the surgery could risk the rest of his career. So I don’t blame him, for avoiding the surgery.

Having said that, my guess is that he runs, walks, plants, HELL, even stands differently with that pain, than he would if it wasn’t there. That is just asking for an ankle to be rolled over, a groin to be pulled, another hamstring injury, etc….

Again. Not blaming him. Not saying “he sucks” or “we should dump him”. I’m just saying the odds of “him missing time due to the toe”, needs to be looked at in a broader spectrum, IMO.

Say for instance Steve Avery. If memory serves me correctly, his initial injury trouble was in the ribcage, abdominal area (similar to Hampton?). That shelved him for a while. Then he came back too soon from that injury, and due to STILL being in pain (or at the very least…discomfort), he altered his delivery. Whaddya know? It wasn’t too long after that that he had arm trouble and had zero velocity left.

Again, I’m not saying that it’s a lock that Chipper is gonna get hurt. But man alive, IT’S HIS FEET!!! They are pretty important to a MLB player, don’t you think? If the feet don’t directly shelf him for an extended period of time, another injury stemming from the foot trouble will.

If he’s lucky and it doesn’t happen. THEN WE ALL WILL BE VERY LUCKY TO WATCH A GREAT 3B PLAY ALL YEAR FOR US.

Period.

By gotigers72

March 13, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

I am with you 100% DOB, but there are more pessimists on this board than there are Nazis in hell. Chipper is one of the best players of his generation. Ask the players and managers that play against him. You don’t have to take my word for it. He had 2 unlucky years as far as health, but look what he did last year by playing in just 110 games! I agree with you that he will be a Hall of Famer, and he is really in rare air among switch hitters. The guy always plays hard, always wants to play [even with little nagging injuries], loves the game, plays the game the way it was meant to be played and means so much to the Braves when he is in the lineup.

He NEVER dogs it, I don’t understand why so many people who think they know baseball criticize this guy. Anybody that wants to trade him. well you just can’t appreciate what he means to this team, and how great a player he is. That’s right, I used the word GREAT. As Braves’ fans, we have been lucky to have been able to watch him for the last however many years he has been in the majors. I am even luckier, because i got to see him play in the minors at Greenville. That team won over 100 games, which is very difficult since they only play about 140 in those leagues. You could tell then that he was going to be a special player, and he has been.

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Eric, just one more thing. You said

Perhaps I’m comparing him unfairly to Pendleton, who came here and almost single-handedly led this team to success.

Actually, it was Chipper’s first full year at 3B, and a year after TP’s departure, that we finally won a WS. But I guess there was no need for leadership that year.

By rupert

March 13, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

braves pride, remember the past, respect the present, look forward to the future, our time is now.

o and f*** the mets

By Rodger

March 13, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Let’s just hope Skip doesn’t paraphrase one of his favorite movie promos to “The Shoot Hosses Don’t They?”.

gotigers, I don’t think you can watch him play and say he NEVER dogs it, but some of that may have to do with his feet. But I feel much better with him at third than, say, Bettameet!

By Lew

March 13, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

Oh Pompous One (or 8)-Did you even look at what I said? Has his hamstring injury returned in two years? No. Is it likely he will sprain his ankle/knee again on a slick field? Possibly. It could happen to anyone. His toe problem is his only recurring problem. It has only caused him to miss a few games here and there-not significant time. Did it cause his hamstring problems? No. Did it cause his ankle/knee injury? No. Did it cause his oblique injury? No. Should his toes cause him more discomfort? Almost certainly. Has it caused him to miss significant time? It hasn’t in the past. Keep him from playing left field and keep him off of wet fields and he shouldn’t miss a whole lot of time. There just isn’t any other way to spin it, Dude. And yes, I have had injuries. I almost broke an ankle and have torn a hamstring. I wouldn’t wish either one on Stinky.

By Seymour

March 13, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

DOB: I couldn’t agree with you more. Chipper is still one of the best players in the game and it is hard for me to imagine why Braves fans wouldn’t think so. On that same note, the amount of naysaying on these blogs is almost unbelievable and rather disheartening. :(

By Lew

March 13, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Also Pompous One- I figured him missing 30 games into the equation. That’s tweo stays on the DL. It would still leave him 130 games. That’s 20 games over last season, which would have put him in the .324 , with 32 HR and 101 RBI range. Not bad for someone missing 30 games, don’t you think?

By Braves20

March 13, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

Memories are short. Have we all forgotten how Chipper personally destroyed the hated Mets year after year. This guy is a Hall of Famer. Somewhere up above the Mick is thanking God that he did play in Atlanta in the later years of his career.

By Braves20

March 13, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

whoops forgot the not in the Mick thanking God he did not play in Atlanta in his later years.

By eric the elder

March 13, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Lew and others, thanks for the details on Chipper’s restructuring. It makes me wonder whether Chipper himself has wondered about whether he can hold up physically much longer. If I were in his position and had some doubts about that, changing option years to guaranteed years, even for slightly less money, would seem highly prudent.

I’m not suggesting that any of this is true, but it seems plausible.

By MGL

March 13, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

DOB at 5:05 - Half the regulars won’t make the trip to Kissimmee for road game tomorrow, including him.

Quite funny for a local. For those of you who don’t know the area, The address for the Braves home field is Kissimmee. This “road trip” is all of 15 mi.

By N8

March 13, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

MGL

This is not directly to you, but to all who aren’t willing to “gamble” once in a while, with some raw talent.

McCann’s numbers combined in 2004 & 2005 in A & AA?

In 551 AB’s, he hit .274, with 22 HR and 92 RBI.

How about Jeff Francoeur?

In 669 AB’s, he hit .284, with 28 HR, 114 RBI.

Now take LaRoche for instance. His last two minor league seasons were 2002 & 2003:

In 906 AB’s, he hit .302 (VERY respectable), with 33 HR’s and 186 RBI (again VERY respectable but not EARTH SHATTERING power numbers.

Now I also understand that LaRoche’s defensive ability, allowed him to NOT be a liability with the big club. But at what point do you not trust (or show some trust) in your minor leagues?

To me, it has had EVERYTHING to do with the “streak”. Not to mention the RESPECT that JS is showing for his veterans that are still capable of winning championships (Smoltz, Andruw, and yes Chipper). But, IMO, with the streak ending last year and the “payroll” not getting any bigger, this last offseason would’ve been prime time to unload some veterans, even if it meant calling it a good old fashioned SALARY DUMP. Renteria and Hudson come to mind. JS was OBVIOUSLY able to make the LaRoche/Gonzalez trade, which was proceeded by the HoRam/Soriano trade. So I’m not sure it was even “neccesary” to retain Wickman.

Am I complaining? NOPE. If they contend this year and give us another run towards the playoffs, I’ll be elated, as always. (anything for a shot in the crapshoot called the playoffs LOL!).

The other thing that I’ve considered is, that after this year, Andruw and Smoltz very well could be gone, which would clear up a LOT of payroll. Are we gonna instantly replace those guys? Probably not. We may NEVER replace those guys. But last time I checked, it’s still a team sport. As I’ve stated many times, I’d rather have above average talent all over the field, then two opposite ends of the spectrum (meaning 5 or 6 10-15 million dollar players , and the rest of the roster making the league minimum, or close to it). Do you need some “thumpers”? (no - NOT Ryan Klesko). Yes. But we’ve got one in Francoeur. McCann looks like he’ll be a good one. If KJ can stay healthy and not embarrass himself at 2B, he’s GONNA HIT.

To make a long story, LONGER, JS has done a very NICE job of putting this team together to contend with this budget. But if Hampton NEVER recovers, Hudson fails again, and Chipper has injury troubles, that is a LOT of tied up money in guys that may not help. Add to that, the money saved on Andruw will probably start going to arbitration eligible players sooner, rather than later.

Sorry to rant. I just think this year would’ve been PERFECT to start over from scratch, as they say. If it all pans out, I’ll be the first to say what a good job JS did, by not “giving up”. But better to give up one year too soon on guys like Hudson, than one year too late, IMO.

L8R

By braveheart

March 13, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

let’s put it this way: which third baseman in the game today would you rather have than chipper: Rolen? Not me but he is also injury prone. AROD? Well, of course although people are not always happy with him. Aramis? puh-leeze. David Wright? Only if you love johnny come latelies. Chavez? Gimme a break. Then what are we even talking about here?

As for leadership, i am usually very skeptical of rah-rah-rah guys. they are usually not leaders. in fact, they are usually quite annoying and fake. often the only person they are trying to convince is themselves and not their teammates. spare me the rah rah guys. they are not leaders. i have played enough sports with guys like that and i have worked in enough places to deal with guys like that. i don’t know about the rest of you but the more someone gets all rah rah rah with everyone, the more i roll my eyes and smirk. just shut up and play. if you look at the foolishness that goes on in the braves dugout during games, you can see that frenchy and mccann and those youngsters all look up to chipper without chipper having to walk around with a big roar and perpetual fist pump. Rah! Rah! Rah! Gimme a break. Rah Rah guys are not leaders.

By ElbravoX

March 13, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

You are right Hoss, I mean DOB. anyways, I am glad he is ok to play today.

By Lew

March 13, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

Eric-Possibly, but the options on those two years were easily obtainable, even with missing considerable time. He really did do something not many do these days.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

David O’B, what’s with the Call him Bob for all I care … ElbravoX, call him Sue.

By Booger

March 13, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Concerning Bobby Cox: It’snot what he says, it’s what he does. Will he pick the right players this year? Will they run? Will they stick on this team all year? It’s hard to decide. You pick.

By N8

March 13, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

Lew

I agree with you (with my fingers crossed), that the wet turf was to blame and could’ve caused ANYBODY to suffer that injury, even a 21 year old in GREAT shape.

What I HOPE doesn’t happen is that he plays “tentitively” on it (the foot). That’s all. Nothing more, nothing less.

His age will also start to be a factor, more and more. But even I CAN’T ARGUE with the numbers he puts up, when in the lineup. Like Griffey Jr. (and even Bonds), when healthy they are ALL STILL CAPABLE of playing the game well above average, if not at a HIGH/GREAT level. No doubt about it.

For me, it ALL changed with the payroll limitations. In the “old days” with Ted, it would be a NO BRAINER to keep, Smoltz, Hudson, Andruw, Chipper until somebody on the roster CLEARLY is ready to outplay them. Even if they failed there would’ve been enough money to get an extra player at the deadline, sign another big-gun in the offseason, etc…

But with this budget, I don’t think we can “afford” to have 4-5 guys taking up 50-60 percent (if not more) of the payroll, especially if they are questionable in ability or health. It’s a dangerous game. The Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers, Rangers, and Angels can get away with it. NOT the Atlanta Braves, circa 2007, IMO.

But as DOB and everybody else (myself included), unfortunately (for our payroll limitations), there isn’t much, if ANYTHING we can do about it. We’re stuck with what we’ve got and crossed fingers.

I’ll repeat myself from before, IF they all stay healthy (Chipper, Smoltz, Andruw, Hudson - since we know Hampton can’t/won’t - I’ll exclude him from this list), we are in VERY good shape. But with KJ at 2B, LF being a question mark, and Thorman at 1B (taking over for a VERY productive Adam LaRoche) we ABSOLUTELY NEED huge years from Hudson, Smoltz, Chipper, Andruw to make up for the young guys possible struggles.

Now some of you may ask? Why the double standard? Why do I say we NEED the veterans to produce to “make up” for the young guys, and also consistantly say “let’s go with a total youth movement”?

It’s simple. If we were to totally rebuild, I would have ZERO expectations for this year (and maybe next) to make a run at the WS. But since we have 3-4 superstars on this roster (at least guys being paid like superstars), then that says we are trying to contend. BIG difference.

It’s ALL ABOUT short term vs. long term for me. Which one are we doing? I’m not sure if a team can succesfully do BOTH. In football, the NE Patriots, seem to know when to cut a player loose for younger ones. As have we in recent years.

Only time will tell. All I’m saying, is as a fan, I’d be willing to have 1988-1990 ALL OVER AGAIN, if it meant we had a chance to have 1991-1995 all over again.

By MGL

March 13, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

N8 - I’m not opposed to gambling on talent. I’d certainly prefer doing so that having the geriatric corps of the Mets and Giants. My point was the some people want to take the “hitter of the week” and replace someone who has had sustained performance over time just because their stats happen to be a little lower.

By Rodger

March 13, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

Gotta love that one Bob-A Hoss named Sue

By Jack In Macon

March 13, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

It’s spring training, let’s wait for the regular season before we get too worked up about Chipper. I still think he will be prouctive this year. As for Hampton, I never felt comfortable that he wouldn’t have another injury. It’s a shame because we could really use him, but don’t be surprised if it’s something else when he returns, if at all.

By jed

March 13, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Nothing against DOB, but i gotta agree with el bravo x—this ‘hoss’ thing is getting out of hand. The only person who should be referred to as ‘hoss’ is Toby Keith, and that’s with irony.

By jed

March 13, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this

Nothing against DOB, but i gotta agree with el bravo x—this ‘hoss’ thing is getting out of hand. The only person who should be referred to as ‘hoss’ is Toby Keith, and that’s with irony.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 13, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

so, we should call chipper uh, bob? why uh, bob? is chipper a journalist, too? soaks in the tub? what manner of comment is “call him bob for all i care”? and what does uh, bob charge a child for an autograph? not $70. uh, bob is much easier to write than uh, chipper. and think of uh, bob’s diary. “i found a little milkshake place today that makes a venison shake.” uh, the humanity!

By jed

March 13, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Nothing against DOB, but i gotta agree with el bravo x—this ‘hoss’ thing is getting out of hand. The only person who should be referred to as ‘hoss’ is Toby Keith, and that’s with irony.

By jed

March 13, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Nothing against DOB, but i gotta agree with el bravo x—this ‘hoss’ thing is getting out of hand. The only person who should be referred to as ‘hoss’ is Toby Keith, and that’s with irony.

By jed

March 13, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Nothing against DOB, but i gotta agree with el bravo x—this ‘hoss’ thing is getting out of hand. The only person who should be referred to as ‘hoss’ is Toby Keith, and that’s with irony.

By braveheart

March 13, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

N8,

start over with what exactly?

the foundation for starting over is already here at catcher and in right field. they are trying at second, left, and first to start over. shortstop will likely be vacated for a start over youngun next year. third base will be vacated about 3 or 4 years from now. we will start over in center next year. they are trying to develop the arms in the minors to start over with the rotation. they are starting over with james, trying to get davies going, a bunch of younguns in the pen.

Start over? It looks like the starting over has already been going on. have you been watching?

what do you expect them to put out there? a glorified AAA team? what sense does that make? If the owners give John S. $80 mil to spend but John S. goes and dumps salary and has a payroll of only $40 mil, what is to stop the owners from further limiting the payroll to $50 mil. As many of us know from our lines of work, if your boss gives you a certain budget, you had better spend it. otherwise, they will figure you don’t need it and they will further restrict it.

which minor leaguers exactly do you expect to be put up here? if they were good enough, don’t you think they’d be here already? The Braves have not exactly been shy lately about bringing up minor leaguers in case you have not been noticing. I guess what you are suggesting is to rush a bunch of guys up and stunt their development by subjecting them to tremendous failure as ballplayers as rookies and ridicule by the media and fans, right? yeah, that makes sense. joey devine has really appreciated the effects of that happening to him.

or if they are not ready, waste money signing mediocre scrubs to fill a spot for a year or two until the younguns are ready, right? that makes no sense.

under your plan, we should win 55-75 games over the next two years while we rebuild, right? that makes no sense. less wins means less money. so while you are saving money with a cheap payroll, you are killing yourself in the future by having less of an income stream. by saving mney by being cheap, you are actually wasting more money by losing money than if you had just gone out and spent the money you already had. so when you are done restarting or rebuilding and the kids are ready to step up, you can’t pay them and you can’t pay other guys to supplement your homegrowns because you choked off all your income and profits during the years you lost and lost and lost and failed to fill up stadiums and sell merchandise and hot dogs, beer, and pretzels and failed to get good television and radio contracts and lost the interest and faith of the fans while you were rebuilding.

When exactly would the true rebuilding or restarting begin exactly anyway? Haven’t the Atlanta Hawks been promising us for 6 years, that the rebuilding was going to start anytime now. Just you guys wait. We are freeing up the money. These young draft picks are gonna pan out anytime now. Yeah, that restarting and rebuilding plan has worked wonders for the Hawks after they dumped Steve Smith, Dikembe, and Mookie.

you have to spend money to make money.

you have to waste time in the minors in order to save yourself the pain of developing guys in the majors.

THIS IS NOT A SMALL MARKET!

THIS IS NOT KANSAS CITY!

THIS IS NOT PITTSBURGH!

WE ARE THE ATLANTA FREAKING BRAVES!

SECOND TO NONE BESIDES THE YANKEES OVER THE PAST 15 YEARS!

We will win at least 85 games this year as presently constituted and if everything goes right maybe 95 games.

In all likelihood, we will the division by winning 90-92 games.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this

jed, we get the freaking point.

By Coach

March 13, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

All this over a slightly sprained ankle , Gee whiz Wally. In soap opera terms we should call this{As the Braves World Turns}. In the meantime Johnson is hitting .231 and Prado is hitting .450. Prado has little chance at 2B , the Braves(Cox) have made up their mind already. Which just isn’t right. Thorman is right at the mendoza line(.200) and he will probably win the 1B job. Langerhans and Diaz are both having a great spring training so far , I kinda figured the outfield wouldn’t be a problem. here is my vote for Prado at 2B. Escobar is ready for the majors , people seem to forget the competition in Cuba is pretty good. Escobar in four seasons in Cuba hit .270 , he seems to be thriving on the pitching he has seen in the States. If Chipper goes down , I would rather see the five tool talent of Escobar over Aybar at 3B. At any rate , its already been a very interesting spring training and we aren’t even half way through it.

By taco slammer

March 13, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

What kind of Triumph you got Dave? I just looked at them really close at a dealer in Raleigh. I’m thinking about getting myself a Bonneville to match my other Triumph, a 72 TR-6.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 13, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Hoss?…calling Chipper Hoss is about like calling your parakeet “Killer”!…

By Edo River

March 13, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

*if you ever have a chance to talk to any of them * DOB you said it. But alot of us don’t and you do. So that makes you their spokesperson, don’t it?

Relax, its just a form of entertainment. just like a musician, no different.

Nice music lyrics

By Chris

March 13, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, if you want people to stop talking about Chipper being injured, how’s about not writing a whole article about it? That would be a good place to start.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

Jed, some bloggers have mastered the art of redundancy … others haven’t.

Sigmond suggested I take a pole … he thinks that there must be some deep hidden fixation associated with the word “your” … with so many using it a a contraction. Surely there is therapy …

By KC

March 13, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

“We will win at least 85 games this year as presently constituted and if everything goes right maybe 95 games.”

What would it look like if everything went right (reasonably speaking)? Here’s my take:

ROTATION

Smoltz: 21-6, 2.98 ERA (very possible… that changeup looks damn good, and there will be plenty of bullpen help this year for a change)

Hudson: 19-8, 3.08 ERA

James: 17-8, 3.30 ERA

Redman: 15-9. 4.00 ERA (remember Steve Trachsel… 15 wins isn’t all that hard with a great bullpen and a good offense)

Davies: 14-9, 4.00 ERA

Mike Hampton not included. I would consider his situation to have gone quite well if he could be healthy and sharp by Sept.Oct… but that won’t help the Braves much through most of the regular season

BULLPEN

Wickman: 2.90 ERA, 42 saves

Gonzalez: 2.25 ERA, 10 saves (and a $%^&-load of holds)

Soriano: 2.40 ERA

McBride: 2.85 ERA (used almost solely against lefties, who hit .190 off him)

Paronto: 3.15 ERA

Yates: 3.00 ERA

Villarreal: 3.10 ERA

LINEUP

Johnson: .288, 12-HR, 45-RBI, .375 OBP

Renteria: .290, 15-HR, 60-RBI

C.Jones: .330, 35-HR, 105-RBI (150 games)

A.Jones: .277, 50-HR, 135-RBI

McCann: .315, 30-HR, 110-RBI (don’t think for a second that those power numbers are too far fetched. Look at what he did after the all-star break last year)

Francoeur: .277, 33-HR, 120-RBI

Thorman: .274, 25-HR, 80-RBI

Diaz/Wilson (combined LF numbers): .287, 22-HR, 75-RBI

PLEASE NOTE!!!! These are NOT my projections for the season. Just thought it would be fun to think of what it would look like if “everything” went right. And if everything did… Atlanta would easily win well over 100 games.

I don’t consider any of these numbers in the least bit far fetched. But it would obviously be far fetched to think everything would go right like that… and I certainly don’t. Again, just for fun here.

By Andy

March 13, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

You don’t think Hampton has Pavanoitis do you?

By Andy

March 13, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

I hate it when Atlanta is considered a small market. I hate it even more when the Marlins are called a small market town when the play in Freakin’ Miami! Baseball America or Prospectus one had a great blowout graphic in this years prospect book about market size vs. payroll and the Miami market is much bigger than the Boston market while the payrolls are ridiculously different.

By KC

March 13, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

DOB: “I didn’t “anoint” him with a superlative, I gave him a damn nickname. You know, it wouldn’t be the first time a reporter gave a player a nickname, or the 1,000th time for that matter. Many of the best nicknames came from writers (and I’m not at all insinuating this is a great one; it’s just a nickname. If you don’t want to call him that, don’t. Call him Bob for all I care.)”

DOB: Please allow me to suggest the following nicknames…

Chuck James – (Home) “Depot” (in reference to his winter job)

Andruw Jones – “Cribs” (in reference to his increasing affinity for the MTV Cribs “showin off my bling” lifestyle.)

By pompousN8

March 13, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

You wrote:

*”Start over? It looks like the starting over has already been going on. have you been watching?”

Hmmm. A 40 year old Ace of the Staff, Tim Hudson (for riciculous money after this season), Mike Hampton (oh wait, he’s not acutally “part of the team”, so lets go on to his “replacement), Mark Redman. Really? That’s our “REBUILT” rotation?

Then you said:

“If the owners give John S. $80 mil to spend but John S. goes and dumps salary and has a payroll of only $40 mil, what is to stop the owners from further limiting the payroll to $50 mil.”

Oh, where to begin? Just because somebody gives you “money to spend” doesn’t mean you have to SPEND IT. Have the Yankees, Red Sox and Orioles a few years ago, NOT SHOWN YOU ANYTHING????? It’s not about HOW MUCH MONEY YOU SPEND, it’s HOW YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY. Period.

I mean seriously. Let’s assume that Andruw is gone after this year (unless you are still living in the dreamworld, where he stays at a “discounted” rate). That would “free up” around 15 million dollars as compared to this year, correct? Now obviously due to him leaving, he has said our offer wasn’t ENOUGH. So he’s off the market (for us). Do you suggest we take that money that was ALREADY BEING SPENT ON OUR CF, and give it to the “next best” option, just because the ownership has given JS permission to spend it? That’s called the NFL’s version of free agency, with the salary cap.

You misun\derstood me. Would I complain about rebuilding? NOPE. But NOWHERE did I say, drop payroll down to 40 million, did I? I said, (in so many words), we are better off SPREADING THAT MONEY AROUND ALL 25 PEOPLE ON THE 25 MAN ROSTER, rather than having 5 guys (Hudson, Chipper, Smoltz, Andruw, Hampton), taking up WELL OVER half of our “alotted” 80 million dollar payroll.

If you can’t agree with THAT, than I’m not sure what to say to you. Or do you think that LAST YEARS’S bullpen “worked out” OK? Sure would’ve been nice (to say the least) to have some extra cash to put into REST OF THE TEAM???? Or are you the kind of guy that paints and maintains the front yard (or whatever is visible from the street) of your house, while letting the backyard look like the set of Sandford and Son? I myself, like to maintain ALL OF IT at an above average level.

You are right about one thing though. We aren’t Pittsburg or Kansas City. But when you look a little closer at the END RESULT (World Series Championships), since 1979 we’re DEAD EVEN with them, arn’t we?

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Four more cuts: JOEY DEVINE, MATT HARRISON, Clint Sammons and Kevin Barry.

Devine optioned to Richmond, others reassigned to minor league camp.

By pompousN8

March 13, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

KC

Smoltz: 21-6, 2.98 ERA (very possible… that changeup looks damn good, and there will be plenty of bullpen help this year for a change)

Hudson: 19-8, 3.08 ERA

James: 17-8, 3.30 ERA

Redman: 15-9. 4.00 ERA (remember Steve Trachsel… 15 wins isn’t all that hard with a great bullpen and a good offense)

Davies: 14-9, 4.00 ERA

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA! Can I stop lauging now????

Smoltz? VERY REASONBLE, in fact with an actual bullpen (and his good health), those might MODEST numbers.

Hudson? Might get the wins, with this bullpen. But a 3.08 ERA??? You’re kidding right?

James? Again, the wins could be within reason, with the bullpen, and I suspect his ERA will fall in the 3.50-4.50 range. He’ll keep us in games, but I suspect that teams may get him a few times, the 3rd time through the order, ruining his shot at a GREAT ERA.

Redman? Again (Traschel is a good comparison), with the bullpen and if the offense picks him up occasionally, 12-15 wins isn’t out of line. But an ERA around 4.00??? NO CHANCE.

Davies? Well, one would have to actually accumulate enough starts to HAVE A CHANCE at those numbers, right? I suspect that either he starts at AAA, thus ending that thought process, or he starts in Atlanta and gets shelled on an EVERY 5th NIGHT basis, thus getting sent to Richmond. A safer bet would be:

Cormier: 12-12 with a 4.50 ERA in the 5th spot of the rotation (and based on the fact that by season’s end, he’ll have outperformed Redman, he’ll actually have been our 4th starter, IMO)

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

N8, ask a baseball fan in Pittsburgh or Kansas City if their teams are either “dead even” or have enjoyed even remotely similar success since 1991. They’d laugh in your face, or ask if you’re being serious. You were being serious, right?

By your measure, the Marlins have been a better franchise than the Braves since coming into existence in 1993. Ask a Marlins fan or a long-time Marlins player like Jeff Conine if they consider that franchise to have been as successful as the Braves since 1993.

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

Classic bad Tim Hudson in the 1st. He’s got Lee 1-2, and can’t finish him. Gives him 3 pitches to look at and he finally hits one.

No big deal… it’s the 1st inning of a spring training game… but that’s really typical of what happened to Huddie last year. He just doesn’t seem to have the “out pitch” and has to work himself to death to finish an inning.

By jed

March 13, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

yeah…sorry for the multiple posts. safari froze on me.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Jed, I agree with your post all five times _ it’s getting out of hand.

Hoss struck out to end the first inning, by the way. Oswalt went through them like chain saw.

Hudson’s allowed four hits and two runs in two innings, for those not watching or listening to the game. And they’ve SMOKED some other balls that were caught.

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

In all fairness, Hudson could have been out of the first inning with no damage. Lee checked his swing in time on a slider and then his next pitch is close to the outside corner, but called a ball.

He’s been hit pretty good by several Astros (Burke, Berkman, Endsberg). Seems to me like he’s struggling more with location from the stretch.

Oswalt had a very good first inning. Got Chipper looking on a pretty good offspeed pitch.

McCann threw a strike to gun down Adam Everett.

2-0 Astros from Dark Star going into the bottom of the 2nd.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Right after I wrote that, McCann hit a screamer up the middle that about took Oswalt’s head off. Francoeur followed with a single, Craig Wilson with another. Bases loaded, one out.

Andruw’s the only out in the inning, a weak fly to left to start it.

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Nice…

McCann smacks a hanging breaking ball into center, Francoeur follows with a solid basehit to right-center, then Craig Wilson singles to left.

Bases full of Bravos with Matt Diaz at the dish.

By No Chop Zone

March 13, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

IF chipper stays healthy and Maybe Hampton can bounce back. All those IF’S and Maybe’s are in question right now…….

By journalist jimmy smith

March 13, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! that was a good at-bat, diaz!

By Epinephrine

March 13, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this

It seems like the wind is messing with both pitchers.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

Diaz two-run single through right side to make it 2-2, then Hudson sacrifice to move runners to second and third. Prado up, two RISP with two outs.

Works count to 3-0, takes a strike, fouls one back, then grounds out 4-3 to end inning.

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Diaz comes through with a 2-run single and Hudson gets the sac bunt down to advance Matt Diaz and Craig Wilson. Prado grounded out to Biggio to end the threat in the 2nd.

All knotted up at 2 down at Disney.

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, updates are all yours. Work is calling… groan

By Steve-O

March 13, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

DOB

ATL can win the next 75 Division Titles with No More World Series and I won’t be the slightest bit happy with it. And ask Jeff Conine—-2 WS Rings or 2 WS Ring which is better? Would he rather have 10 Division Titles and 1 WS ring or Zero Division Titles and 2 WS rings, I know his answer.

By Epinephrine

March 13, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Great inning from Huddy. All of a sudden the movement was back on his pitches. That was the Huddy we have seen all spring break, and against the top of the lineup too.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Taco Slammer, that’s what I’ve got _ Bonneville. Gotta love the Triumphs. Their Scrambler’s great, too.

Looked at some Softail Classics today at the Harley shop about a mile from Wide World of Sports. Nice. Totally retro looking, which is what I like. The new Harley Nightsters are awfully enticing.

You want to see a great custom bike for under $20,000, check out one I test rode. Google Swift Motorcycles, click on the line for bikes, and look at the Lucky Strike.

By Epinephrine

March 13, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

DOB-any more thoughts on the lyrical genius of antichrist television blues?

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

No, you don’t, Steve-O, you just think you know the answer. I talked to Jeff and others including Kevin Millar about it many times, the sustained winning vs. the win-it-all once every few years and blow it up school. But you know how they think, apparently, so I won’t bother trying to change your mind.

By pompousN8

March 13, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

DOB

As for me being “serious”? Yes and No.

Have I thoroughly enjoyed the last 15 years? Yes. Have I enjoyed ANY ONE YEAR any more than in 1982, when at age 11 fell in love with the Braves and more importantly, baseball in general? No. 1991 was VERY SPECIAL. 1995, of course was AWESOME. But at that point, and I remember seeing a sign being held up by a fan that Bob Costas commented on, it said: FINALLY! That pretty much summed up the feeling about that WS victory. The failures (while exciting and electrifying) had kind of emotionally drained most fans that even in the midst of the final out being caught by Grissom, it wasn’t NEARLY as exciting or enjoyable as Bream scoring in 1992.

So would I expect the Marlins, Pirates and Royals fans to have sympathy on me as a fan of the Braves? NOPE.

But having said that, I meant what I said about being willing to take another stretch like 1988-1990 if it means that a streak like 1991-1995 is on the way.

Is that streak starting this year (the 1991-1995 one), with this “young core” of players? Can’t say for sure. Just as much as I can’t say if last year was the start of the 1988 trend that lasted 3 years. (I really don’t believe it is - but we are an injury to Chipper AND Smoltz away from finding out).

I heard a good comment listening to the Minneapolis Sports talk radio on the way home from work. Not sure what they were talking about, as I got in my car half way through the conversation. But the announcer said somthing to the effect of people taking way too much offense when fans use the world “failure” when discussing their favorite teams and players. Never have I agreed more.

Did the Braves “fail” last year. Yes. They were a bad team. That not only didn’t win the Championship, they didn’t make the playoffs.

Did Tim Hudson “fail” last year? Yes. By his own admission and by the HIGH standards he set earlier in his career, he certainly did.

Did Chipper “fail” to do all that he was capable of, due to injury? Yes. He did. It’s that simple.

It doesn’t make them bad players, or bad human beings. They DIDN’T WIN THE BIG PRIZE, thus they FAILED. Never once have I said: “Chipper SUCKS, or Hudson SUCKS (well, maybe that one , once or twice LOL!), etc…

These guys are paid BIG contracts not only based on what they have done in the past (they set the bar for themselves, not us), but what their employer and FANS expect them to do in the future. When those goals aren’t met, it’s called FAILURE.

If you write a story, column, blog or whatever, and you didn’t deliver it as well as you believe you can do it, would you NOT expect yourself and others around you to consider it a failure? Failing doesn’t mean that you CAN’T do it, it just means that you DIDN’T do it.

Did Maddux and Glavine “fail” all of those years of GREAT PITCHING and Cy Young awards? Not individually. But I bet each one of them has taken some ammount of blame for FAILING to get it done on many occasions in the playoffs.

Gary Sheffield. Two MONSTER seasons in RF for the Braves. If I’m not mistaking 3 hits and 2 RBI in 2 post season series in Atlanta. I/E…..HE FAILED.

Has the Atlanta Braves been the model of consistancy for ALL OTHER teams since 1991? I think so. I guess it’s up to each individual fan to decde whether he’d rather watch 15 years of GREAT baseball and 1 title. Or be like Twins. Win it in 87. Suck for 3 years. Win it in 91. Suck for a few more years and then have a reasonible shot at a title for a few years in a row?

Judging by the post season attendance in Atlanta in the early rounds, I’m guessing that there is a lot more people that are BORED with this team, than meets the eye. (not saying I’m one of them - it’s ANYTHING but boring)

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

Coach, while I certainly agree that Escobar is a very talented player and has hit .500 in 18 at-bats this spring before tonight, you wrote: “Escobar in four seasons in Cuba hit .270 , he seems to be thriving on the pitching he has seen in the States.”

Huh? In his only full season in the U.S., last year at Mississippi, he hit .264 with two homers and 45 RBIs in 428 at-bats against Double-A pitching.

By Lew

March 13, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-And IF the Mets have any pitching after Glavine. IF Alou can keep from falling off of the treadmill for the third time. If Green can remember how to hit. IF enough rocking chairs are sent to the Mets’ locker room. IF the Mets can get a senior citizens discount at all the hotels they stay at this year. IF they decide to spend all that money we’ve heard about. All those if’s and maybes are in question right now……

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

that is an incredible song. listened to the whole CD a couple more times on the drive back from jupiter yesterday. gets better and better with each listen.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

if glavine isn’t old, if duque isn’t old, if chan ho wasn’t chan ho, if sosa wasn’t sosa, if pedro wasn’t brittle, if maine wasn’t a kid, if our bats weren’t in your pelfrey, if sanchez wasn’t an alcoholic taxidriver, if mota didn’t use steroids, if heilman wasn’t such a grump, if bradford was still here, if wagner could only get a big out, if only wagner wasn’t owned by chipper, if you had a second baseman, if you had a right fielder, if you had a left fielder who wasn’t 69 years old, if sierra had only been signed in 1989 and not 2007, if delgado is healthy, if beltran does not revert back to 2005 form which is more of a typical year for him, if wright doesn’t slump, if reyes could only learn to take a walk, if you had nice uniforms, if you had a nice stadium, if you weren’t the red headed bastard stepchild in your city and in your division, ………… are you getting the point, No Chop? a whole lot of ifs with the Mets as well.

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

KC, I love ya man, but if you’re serious about those ERA’s I must advise you to step back from the crack. That stuff will change your life for the worse, ask any crackhead. :-)

By Epinephrine

March 13, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

I just think its great that the song is about Jessica Simpson’s father. Ocean of Noise and No Cars Go aren’t too shabby either. Check out the new Modest Mouse cd when you get a chance. Lots of great stuff this year.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

It’s probably too early to award Escobar “can’t miss” status but, at the same time, I’m a bit reluctant to use his performance under Jeff Blauser as a readiness indicator.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

Soriano was VERY impressive in his two-strikeout perfect fifth inning.

Edgar just got robbed of a double or triple on a liner almost to the right-field warning track. Great leaping catch by Luke Scott.

Don’t look now, but Francoeur is batting .400 (10-for-25) with three strikeouts.

Andruw just got hit in the left hand, but shook it off, stayed in and then stole second base.

By rupert

March 13, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, i might be way off here, but i get the vibe that the braves brass don’t trust prado with the second base job and leading off, at least not at this point. You get that feeling?

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 13, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

i just saw rafael soriano pitch for the first time this year. he looks like a very, very bad man.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 13, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

I have to weigh on this Chipper discussion. I will preface my comments by saying that Chipper is one of my favorite players. But…………….

This constant raggin’ on him really gets annoying. Yes, he has had some injury issues the last couple of years but so have a lot of guys. So what. The guy is still one of the best hitters in the game. It is so obvious how good that lineup is when he is in it. Fact is, before the injuries so-called fans ragged on him. I just don’t get it. Despite what some say Chipper is a Hall of Famer and is one of the greatest Braves in history.

And, why are so many making a mountain out of a mole hill. He slightly sprained his ankle. And, ‘ol fragile Chipper or “Day-to-Day” Chipper is in the lineup tonight. What do all the haters have to say about that?!

This whining and complaining is simply just ASININE!

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

Rupert, the feeling I get is that second base is not open long as Kelly Johnson doesn’t fall on his face, and Cox has gone out of his way to praise Kelly so far, so no reason for me to believe there is any real competition for that job.

Prado, from conversations I’ve had with people, is more a super-utility guy than an everyday second baseman.

Keep in mind, his best average above A-ball is .282 and he’s not hit more than five homers in any season during six years in the majors. Not that power is essential for a second baseman, but you like to have some unless it’s a pure leadoff type guy, which he’s not. He’s only had 163 walks in 503 career games (1,915 ABs) in the minors.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

rupert, check out prado’s obp and slg percentages in the minors at thebaseballcube.com. compare that to johnson and you see why the braves are justified in favoring getting johnson’s bat in the lineup rather than prado

By Jon

March 13, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Soriano just looked awesome tonight. He stuff is nasty.

He could breakdown tomorrow and I realize that, but what in the world was Seattle thinking by trading him for Horacio. I probably thought a little more of Horacio than most, but come on, this Soriano deal was a steal. Of course, Seattle has made some seriously bad moves the last few years anyway, but this one has got to be the worst.

A fit and trim Andruw stealing bases. Andruw has got money on his mind. When Andruw gets his $10 trillion per year next year, he might approach 450 pounds by next spring.

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Read (somewhere) today that the Cubbies are scouting middle infielders, including Prado. What might they offer???

By The Grinch

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

Francouer just got robbed by the wind; that ball should’ve gone over 400 feet, easy.

By Oddjob

March 13, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

I’ve been trying to qualify this group of starters against others in the nl east.As far as I know we don’t play the 1998 Braves so I came up with a very sopyhisticated and scientific measure of the divisions most valuable starters, the method I came up with I’ll call LQIPs (lotsa quality innings pitched) sorry if it gives you a brain cramp.By this measure Smoltz was the best in show last season 232 innings 3.49 era second place was D. Willis with 223 innings and a 3.87 era third comes our old buddy T. Glavine with 198 innings and 3.87 era fourth is Brett Meyers with 198 and 3.98 fifth was Jamie Moyer at 211 and 4.30, so to wrap this mind bending exercise in advanced statistics up my conclution is,we could be ok.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Interesting game … you have to plan your work and then work your plan … hopefully there will be some positive reinforcement. Methinks the 2007 edition will have a different look and the Braves will have a very good year.

Methinks you think me shouldn’t think so much but that’s what me thinks.

Pasta with the stomach virus isn’t the best of prescriptions.

More foot problems? No fear, No-Neck is tough!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 13, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

toe injury to chad parontoe! oh, the humanity! toes must not be trifled with! at least parontoe did not hop off the field like a sissy.

By Jon

March 13, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

DOB, What is your take on Escobar? I guess to be less vague, what are your thoughts on his future with the braves and what do you project for him at the major league level, I guess when he gets a little more polished. Probably still a little raw at the moment.

By ssiscribe

March 13, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

OK, now this is more like it. Bravos on the tube, bloggers on the blog. Get ready for seven months of this, folks.

A few initial impressions from the parts of the game I’ve watched:

— First of all, how nice to sit down after dinner and turn on the tube and see the Braves come on the big screen.

— I like the tandem of Scambi (sp?) and Simpson behind the mike.

— Hudson got hit pretty hard, pitches up in the zone. Lucky he only gave up two runs. He settled down after his first two innings.

— See the concereted effort the Braves were making to go to the off field.

— AJ looks like he’s in great shape. Good for the Braves this year, and for somebody else next year.

— Jeff Francoeur looks like a different hitter. I heard Simpson talking a little about it, but Frenchy did a really nice job with those two opposite-field singles, nice inside-out swing as opposed to striding and trying to hit everything 500 feet to left. He sat on a fastball in his third at-bat and hit it into the teeth of the wind. It was caught at the fence.

— McCann nearly took Oswalt into center with a nice rip early in the game.

— Mainly, win or lose, it’s nice to have the Braves on TV.

Glad the Braves went ahead and sent Devine out of the major-league camp. Not because I’m not rooting for him, but he needs to get a good full season at Class AAA under his belt. And for the Matt Harrison folks rooting for him, yeah, he’s gonna be a good one. But he needs experience.

That’s about it for now. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Sue is a hoss!

By pompousN8

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

Well, Pete just said on the radio that “you can bet that a little part of Chipper playing the whole game tonight, is to show the fans, and people saying stuff on the internet (that would be us), that he WANTS to be on the field”.

I feel a whole bunch better now.

Just kidding people.

Really, I, personally have NEVER questioned his determination to BE ON THE FIELD. I’ll go on the record and say, that I’m pretty sure NO ATHLETE feels good about taking a paycheck while NOT helping the team everyday.

Never has been a matter of me questioning his “marbles”. The guy’s a gamer. But so is Griffey Jr. So is Grant Hill. So is Priest Holmes.

Sometimes BAD THINGS happen to GREAT GUYS.

Oh NO! What happened. Chipper knocks in the go ahead run and the LEAVES THE GAME. Did he hurt himself smiling, while rounding first base? LOL!

I hope he plays in 150 games and proves me wrong. NOBODY would be more happy than me. Believe me.

By ElbravoX

March 13, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Hoss came through!

By ssiscribe

March 13, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

That’s what I get for letting my wife change the channel. I missed Hoss coming through and missed — OH THE HUMANITY!! — Paronto’s toe injury.

Alas, the Scribe abides … and now doing so thanks to Gameday Audio.

—30—

By brian

March 13, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

DOB - the East is by far and away the toughest region. Ask Kansas what they would think about Texas as a 4 seed or potential Sweet 16 matchup. Georgetown in the Great 8? Brutal. Duke as a 6 seed? please. Should have been an 8

As far as Chipper, I said it yesterday. Chipper is the one to carry the Braves, and he has to get the chip back on his shoulder that the Braves are going to win and he is going to provide the big hit in the late innings to do it. What he did to New York in years past IS Hall of Fame material. More than Hampton and more than 2B or LF, Chipper is key. If he is the healthy Hall of Famer who puts the team on his back we win. If he sits on the bench or at home hurt, we struggle.

Chipper will solidify his place in the Hall of Fame when HE leads us back into the post season (and especially if it involves a World Series in the next few years)

Go Braves. And thank you DOB

By pompousN8

March 13, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

My suspicion is that the BACKDOOR Breaking ball is going to be THE pitch that allows McBride to be as effective against righties, as he is against lefties.

PS: I’ve decided that at 8:05 CDT, on March 13th, 2007, that I will no longer be posting ANYTHING negative whatsoever.

In fact, it may turn out to be similar to Pedro Cerrano in Major League 2 (President Palmer, for those who watch 24).

I plan on enjoying the Rainbow in the sky, following the storm that rips the roof off of my house.

So I’m gonna start my “new” outlook by saying:

Dang. That McBride kid sure looked (sounded) good last inning. Attaboy!

By journalist jimmy smith

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

this new tv announcer for the braves must learn that cairo is in egypt. ka-ro is the georgia pronunciation. a little karo syrup, some pecans, and a few other ingredients and we can have a fine pecan pie. now, soriano … whoa! adding soriano looks like a good move.

By N8......."It's ALL good!"

March 13, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Since I no longer plan on being pompous, I no longer felt “comfy” with that ridiculously negative word being associated with my name.

Boy. Sure seems like the boys are knocking the ball all over the field, but that darned wind just cooperate.

That mother nature. She can sure mess with a guy. LOL!

Oh well…..It’s ALL good!

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Hot diggity…

Came back to see Chipper’s RBI single to take the lead and Petey Orr steal second. Although I missed seeing Soriano, kudos to SportSouth for showing the highlights coming back from commercial to the bottom of the 8th.

ssiscribe, my initial thoughts on Sciambi are the same as yours. It’s early but he seems to be working really well with Joe Simpson.

Craig Wilson just rode out a wind-aided out to deep left-center. I saw the replay of Frenchy’s blast that got held up in the wind. The Dark Star looks like Wrigley with the wind blowing in tonight.

The bullpen has been lights out so far. Well, now I think I’m jinxing us, Acosta just surrenders a base on balls to start the ninth.

By ssiscribe

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

On the Hoss debate, I’ll say this: Chipper’s been in the spotlight and the crosshairs since he came out of high school. He was the annoited one — remember, he would’ve been on the team in 1994 as the left field had he not ripped his knee up in a spring training game against the Yankees.

He should’ve been rookie of the year the next year. That award went to Hideo Nomo. That was OK with Chipper; he was on the team that won the World Series. He became the new young face of the franchise following on the heels of the Justice/Gant era. He carried the Braves down the stretch in 1999, on his way to MVP.

On the other side of the fence, there was the affair with the Hooters’ waitress and the subsequent divorce. There has been the Braves’ failings in the postseason, which have been pinned in part on Chipper because he is the Braves to many people. Then came the injuries that cost hit significant stretches of the past two seasons.

All of this is to say Chipper can’t catch a break because he is front and center when it comes to this team. Unless the Braves win the World Series every year and Hoss plays 162 games in the regular season and hits .330 with 45 homers and 135 RBIs, he’s going to hear crap from somewhere.

It’s not really fair. Chipper’s been a warhorse for this franchise. He wants to win. He wants to play. Nobody who’s watched the Braves at all since 1995 can dispute that.

And as far as the nickname? Hoss is fine with me. Scribes are good for scribin’, and good for nicknamin’.

Houston just tied things in the ninth and have runners on base against Acosta. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Bob, journalist

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

Acosta is guilty of identity theft

By N8......."It's ALL good!"

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

Greg in TN

“Well, now I think I’m jinxing us, Acosta just surrenders a base on balls to start the ninth.”

Don’t be so silly my friend. Fans can’t jynx MLB players. It’s just a game. Sit back and enjoy, my brother.

That dang wind (said while snapping). Looks like Ma Nature took some HR’s away from our Braves, and gave some bloops to the Astros. What a bummer!

Oh well. Spring is here. (deep inhale) Time to go outside and smell the roses. (deep exhale)

What a day!

By ssiscribe

March 13, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Can’t believe I didn’t post this in my initial observations, but Soriano is one mean dude. See Biggio laughing after he was looking fastball and got slider? Sick stuff!

Soriano’s got a nice, easy motion, effortless, and he flat out brings the heat.

—30—

By Braves4Ever

March 13, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

One of my Favotite quotes ever. A fan wrote in 1999 after Chipper had single handed (almost) dismantled the Mets hope for the season, “Wilpon?, I thought Chipper owned the Mets”

By journalist jimmy smith

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

another chipper nickname for consideration - goose. why hoss? why not goose? journalist can think of only one previous major league goose. no third base geese. room for another goose. journalist can make a good case for goose but will wait for feedback from others. hint: more webbing than just the glove.

By Greg in TN

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

scribe - Would have loved to have seen Chipper win the ROY in 1995.

N8 - I know, I know, trying to settle down here.

Lead off walks almost always come back to kill us in the late innings, but I guess tonight that’s not the only issue. Manny Acosta just didn’t have it and even when he did make good pitches and broke a bat or two, the ball still wound up in a hole somewhere.

By Trav

March 13, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

lol 9 run ninth inning….acosta needs more seasoning in the minors ;)

By ssiscribe

March 13, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Glad to get one of these out of the way in spring: a NINE run ninth inning at Not So Happy Place USA. It’s 11-3 Houston. Manny Acosta got blown up like a firecracker on the Fourth of July.

OK, I think I’m getting outta here now. Any word on Paronto? Peace.

—30—

By Braves4Ever

March 13, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

A Favorite quote from a fan back in 1999, after Chipper almost single handedly dismantled the Mets and their post season hopes. ” Wilpon???…. I thought Chipper owned the Mets.”

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Bobby just wanted to see if we have what it takes to come back from adversity.

By Wayne in UT

March 13, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

Been driving and selling most of the day, but for those who missed Coaches’ link, the 11 year old was found at 2:30am at a family friends place 15 miles away. Kid just took a bus over…..

Thanks for all the positive thoughts and prayers out there in BravesBlog land!

By Bob, journalist

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

Houston cheated … Adversity didn’t pitch!

By JJMB

March 13, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

I don’t know jjs, but at 6-4 220lbs, Chipper is closer to a horse than a goose. Is he? Maybe not. Try this. A horse pulls a load. Chipper will definitely have to pull this team for them to win. Hoss > horse > pull > load > win. Chipper = Hoss.

By Bob, journalist

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

Wayne, I’m truly glad it turned out well … I know that if it had been me, I wouldn’t be sitting for a least a week!

By Mr. DirtyMouth

March 13, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

I hear they do perverse things with geese in Uganda and Cordele…

By Greg in TN

March 13, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Yikes, somebody needs to tell the boys at Disney that fireworks comes when the home team wins.

What I think went well - Chipper came back from the twisted ankle yesterday and played well in the field and went 2-4 at the plate. The bullpen minus the ninth inning did everything asked of them. Stolen bases from Prado, AJ and Pete Orr. Frenchy going 2-3. Soriano striking out two with a solid inning.

What I think didn’t go well - Hudson struggled some and got hit hard in spots, and the ninth was tough to sit through. Leadoff walks equals lots of Tums/Rolaids. Paronto(e)’s toe/foot injury.

Ah well, my mom said there’ll be days like this. A little over 15 hours from now down the road in Kissimmee, we can return the favor.

By MBATL

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

Hudson of ‘07 looks like… Hudson of ‘06.

By mike

March 13, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Chipper is from all accounts nice guy, gets along great in the club house but more of a follower than a leader in my opinion. Leaders step up come play off time he never has. We finish fourth this year due to lack of leadership and pitching

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 13, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

DOB, I take it that Mr. Manny Acosta will be the next guy to be cut from camp.

By David O'Brien

March 13, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

Paronto hit on instep, but was walking OK after game and indicated it wasn’t bad.

Frenchy and Wilson would’ve hit balls 30-40 feet past the fence if not for the wind. Both just CRUSHED those balls. Bobby said Wilson’s would have cleared the scoreboard, and for once he might not have been guilty of hyperbole.

I’ll have to get on Boog for not knowing the proper pronunciation of one of our fine municipalities. Like the syrup, you Northeasterner.

But he’s a good man. Give him some time, you’ll all dig his broadcasts, I’m sure.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 13, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I don’t get what you mean by Hudson of ‘07 looks like Hudson of ‘06. He had one rough inning but otherwise was very solid and has been all spring.

By The Grinch

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

JJS, I like it. I don’t think he’ll have a problem with Mr. Gossage unless he tries to grow a handlebar mustache (which, judging by his “goatee” isn’t likely). If it catches on it may also help him sell more Red Goose shoes. If you’re a Thrashers fan, it’s hard to call someone else besides Hossa “Hoss.”

Carroll, in response to that earlier football rule: what about sportsmanship? Suppose you’re up by three touchdowns with one minute left (in the NFL, where it matters), and instead of doing the classy thing and taking a couple of knees you have to risk injury by trying to run up the score? I’m just sayin…

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

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

Mike, “lack of pitching”? Have you been watching this spring? Pitching looks pretty good to me.

By Bob, journalist

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

Greg, my only real concern was the possible foot injury to Paronto … never heard any update.

Radio is different form TV but somehow Hunson “sounded” better than last year when he was getting hit.

Taking a gander at the stats, Acosta’s 24.75 ERA indicates that Houston feasted and his goose is cooked … that is to say, he’s not a hoss that will be in our stable come April!

By MBATL

March 13, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

RJIB, I mean he can’t get a guy out with 2 strikes and a “game situation” on the line. I don’t hate him, just am concerned that he seems to give up 4.5 runs every nine innings against ML competition.

The ab against Lee was typical… an ace should’ve had an ace pitch to end the inning, but Huddie never seems to have it.

By David O'Brien

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

Well said, Bob, journalist.

That’s not a hoss we’ll find in the stable this year, you can safely assume.

By Bob, journalist

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

mike,

Leaders step up come play off time he never has

From my limited perspective, that’s a bold statement … both parts … Leaders step up come play off time and he never has … and a narrow view of leadership.

A fourth place finish is possible … certainly more likely than sixth … but this team will be fun to watch!

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 13, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Hey Wayne, are you still here?

By TennesseePaul

March 13, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

HolyCrap! I leave to go do some research and come back to see Acosta can’t get an out. All 8 guys he saw scored. Sheeeeeesh!
On the bright side I see McBride had 3K’s in 1.1 innings. Chipper “Hoss” Jones was 2-4 and Francoeur is still seeing the ball.

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Glad the boy turned up ok, Wayne.

Did Acosta remind anyone else of Sosa? Throws 96 and it doesn’t matter. Mets fans will soon be familiar.

By Navigator

March 13, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

Unlike O’Brien, I don’t have to write nice things about Chipper. He’s a no show for several seasons, and that does not equate to leadership. There’s been a lot of talent come through baseball that never quite lived up to their potential. I really believe Chipper is one of those, and that’s not throwing him under the bus. His postseason results are similar to Bonds, great season but fades in the postseason. I wish him the best, but I don’t expect him to play 150 games ever again.

By Braveheart

March 13, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

leaders step up come playoff time

Chipper’s postseason stats: .288, .411, .459, .870 OPS. 18 doubles, 13 home runs, 58 runs, 72 walks, 47 RBIs, 8 stolen bases in 92 games.

Derek Jeter postseason stats: .314, .384, .479, .865 OPS, 22 doubles, 3 triples, 17 home runs, 85 runs, 48 RBIs, 51 walks, 16 stolen bases in 119 games

per 162, in the postseason, Chipper would have 32 doubles, 23 home runs, 102 runs, 83 RBIs, 127 walks, 14 stolen bases

per 162, in the postseason, Jeter would have 30 doubles, 23 home runs, 116 runs, 65 RBIs, 22 stolen bases, 69 walks.

A little perspective.

By Bob, journalist

March 13, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Grinch III, Did Acosta remind anyone else of Sosa? Throws 96 and it doesn’t matter.

You’re being unfair to Jorge … he can hit!

By MBATL

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

RJIB, I should probably clary a little. I LIKE Hudson, and I agree he needs to return to form for the Braves to be successful. I thought all last year that it was “finishing” an inning that killed him…. a strike here or there, a couple less foul balls… and he might’ve had a good year.

What I’ve noticed, but don’t track stats well enough to document, is that he has a hard time putting batters away. That’s my concern. Lee, at 1-2, 2 out, runner on second, was a classic example tonight. Tim threw him three or four pitches - balls, fouled balls, etc - before he finally gave up the run scoring hit. Credit to Lee for a great AB, but Huddie needs a strikeout pitch! Seems to me that batters can stand in and foul off pitches until they see one they like.

That’s all I’m saying. Not that he stinks, or that he should be dumped. I really want to see him succeed, but just perceive that he lacks an out pitch when he needs it, and tonight just reinforced that to me.

By Yars

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

It will be interesting to see what the Braves do when Chipper’s contract is up after the ‘08 season, especially if he has a solid season this season and next. I figure Chipper has already made his $$$ & would probably re-sign with Atlanta at a considerable hometown discount. He will be 37 during the ‘09 season so I doubt he expects any team to give him a 3 or 4 year deal. With his history of bad health and his age, no way. A 2 year deal is more realistic. However, I figure he could prolong his career if his feet allow him to and can sign on with some AL team and be a full time DH and perhaps play until he’s 40. When all is said and done, I wonder if he will be a borderline hall of famer, or a shoe-in?

By Oil Soap

March 13, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I heard a rumor today from a sports reporter/friend that Mike Gonzalez is rubbing folks on the Braves the wrong way…coming off as a hothead. Heard anything like that?

By The Grinch

March 13, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

Point taken, Bob. And on that note, this Grinch will depart for the land of Nod. Later, all.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 13, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

It’s been a while since the Scalp Man has weighed in here (read, months, and for the weight comment, about 4 lbs - not that I need anymore than I got).

DOB - have been reading your posts, and basically ignoring all the griping from others. Actually, has been a pleasure, and, in light of this thing I have, um, called a job, and the other thing I have, um, called a marriage (26 years and counting), just haven’t had, or taken, time to post. But, with recent developements, here goes.

MIKE HAMPTON - this guy has been a gamer, a competitor, by all accounts, an incredible athlete (in more sports than Baseball) before he got here. Yes, we have tossed away millions on him over the past 2 years, with no return. But, who knew what was coming? Not me, and not the rest of you turrds griping about him now. Hope for the best, that he will be back, ASAP, in full form. Otherwise, what are you gonna do?

CHIPPER - I cringed the other day when I heard about the ankle sprain. Thought to myself, here we go again… But, DOB is right - what are we gonna do? Dump an Icon? For God’s sake people, its Spring Training!! Geez, the guy has been money for all these years, and barring bad injury this year, will still be the man. Lord knows, he can still hit. And if he goes down, once, twice, three times and you count him out, don’t you know he will do so with class, grace, and chutzpah? We wouldn’t expect anything different, given the many years of incredible production, grit and guts he has given this team over the years.

Again, I haven’t read anyone’s comments on the blog for the last few months. Just haven’t had time. It’s this thing called a JOB which precludes me from ruminating, obsessing, ranting, and otherwise tearing apart every decision or non-decision JS, BC or anyone else makes. To be honest, I’m glad I haven’t read the comments, based on DOB’s remark about those who apparently want to try to dump Chipper, Hamptom, etc.

For those who want to dump a player at the first sign of distress, let me be your boss. Let me micro-analize (or in the case of Payne, micro-ANAL-yze, statwise) your every move, and make a decision to do away with your living with the wave of a hand, and see how you feel about it. Yes, they are paid scads of money. But, it is still their living, their pride, and their passion. Back off, let the pros do their job, and enjoy the game.

DOB, thanks for the frequent and informative updates. This is the only place I can find out what is going on with the Braves, or other teams, because my hometown newspaper’s coverage either SUCKS or is non-exsistent. Please, please, please, talk these idiots into carrying your beat stories on a daily basis!!!!!

By Tony Almeida

March 13, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

I see our good buddy Chris Reitsma is having a horrible Spring with the Mariners…good to know he doesn’t stink up the place with just the Bravos.

By Kieran: Long Island Braves Fan

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

(Syrup?) See-rup… thats how it’s said my friend

By N8......."It's ALL good!"

March 13, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

In all fairness to Jeter, he’s been the leadoff hitter in MOST of the Yankees playoff games. If Chipper was batting in the leadoff spot, how many RBI do you think he would have? My guess is considerably less. Of course, Jeter has the beneifit (in AL playoff games and WS games in the AL park) of the DH, so one COULD say it washes out.

A “better” comparison would’ve been Bernie Williams:

.275 BA, .371 OBP, .480 SLG, .951 OPS, 29 doubles, 22 HR’s, 83 Runs, 71 BB, 80 RBI, 8 SB in 121 games.

Which when pro-rated to the “162” games like you’ve done, comes out to:

38 doubles, 29 HR, 111 Runs, 95 BB, 107 RBI, 10 SB

Having said that, Chipper is one of the few Braves, who seems to be consistantly productive at the plate in the post-season.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 13, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Stupid Question, I know…. has anyone ever suggested, organized or pulled off a meeting of the Bloggers? In a bar, in an alley, on the street, etc? I think that would be cool, with blogger name tags. Might be a few fights break out, but what the hell? Anybody game? I am, and I live 2 hours from Atlanta. As long as we give the Hannibal Lechter treatment to SJA, and ban Stinky to the back of the parking lot, think it would be a blast!!

By Micah

March 13, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, have a great time seeing Lu tomorrow night! Doug Pettibone, multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire, is the man……I know your psyched! Going to the Hard Rock, huh? Does that mean you are supporting the Indians now…..shameless joke, I know;)

Go Braves!

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

Who is Hannibal Lechter?

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 14, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

Only 3rd basemen I see on the horizon as up and coming are Wright and Zimmerman. Both still have a was to go. Rolen I would say is on a par with Chipper when healthy which is to say both are very good 3rd basemen.

I really look forward to seeing Richmond ply this year. It has been a long while since there has been a collection of talent at the AAA level. Usually it have been the Marlin’s farm team with most of the “stars”.

The young players would rather be in the “show” everyday. More money. better travel etc. but they will get better playing everyday down on the farm rather than riding the pine in Atlanta.

I doubt Tony Pena will clear waivers but a lot of teams will give up offense for a slick fielding shortstop with speed. Make no mistake, this kid can play a major league shortstop, if he can hit .230 to .240 he would make a lot of teams very very happy.

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 14, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

Okay, time to hit the rack…. Night ladys

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 14, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

Hannibal Lechter would be more welcome at such a gathering than would be TheSouthernJackAss—TheJackAss has been determined as being insusceptible of redemption by the blog regulars, and thus assumes this label and responsibility wholeheartedly!…

By KC

March 14, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

The good news is that Hudson made adjustments and settled in. The bad news is that no one was hitting the ball on the ground as they did in Hudson’s last start.

Oh well. Still very early.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

Oil Soap, Gonzalez is intense on the field, has a temper that’s not typical Braves demeanor. That said, I don’t think he’s rubbed people the wrong way, really. They’re just all getting used to the new guys, etc. Once he starts performing as expected, all will be fine. I’m sure he’s a big on edge right now, coming back from the elbow thing and struggling a little.

Funny how the guy (Soriano) some here were worried would disrupt things has slipped right into the fabric of the clubhouse and immediately gotten the respect of everyone including his manager, who raves about him and says he’s even a bit intimidated by Soriano.

Meanwhile the one who is so nice, so outgoing in interviews, etc, is the one that’s in whispered rumors like the one just posted by a friend of a blogger.

Hey, give ‘em time. I know the first reaction to Wilson by a couple of guys was, bit of a strange dude. But he’s already getting along great with a lot of guys on the team. Funny how performing well, hitting bombs, notching strikeouts, whatever, makes the fitting-in thing go a lot easier.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 12:45 AM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em, thanks. Good to know you’re still staying in touch with the blog….

Micah, I’m really looking forward to seeing the lovely Lu tomorrow night. She’s just incredible in concert.

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

A hoss is a hoss is a hoss, unless his name is Lane, who starred in baseball, football, and basketball.

You may not remember him ‘cause he wasn’t a brave … though his road to the majors was rocky, he played for a long time, a long time ago.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 14, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

On second thought, “Hoss” is a very fitting nickname for ol’ Larry—just look at the size of those teeth in that AJC photo—Mr. Ed ain’t got nuthin’ on those chompers!…

By Head Coach

March 14, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Huh ? O’brien must have forgot about Escobar’s .407 A.F.L. batting title against the best pitching prospects in baseball. Escobar actually owns a .285 average over two minor league season with a .365 OBP , pretty good numbers for a SS. He will be in Richmond by the end of the season after just three years in the minors , its no wonder so many teams are after him. he could be another Furcal , just a little taller. It looks like Manny Acosta just punched his ticket back to the minors.

By Head Coach

March 14, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

O’Brien , whats the skinny with Elvis Andrus ? The kid is nowhere to be found ? He isn’t on any of the minor league rosters and the Braves are saying nothing. Is this a glitch or is there a story here ?

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 14, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

Guess that wasn’t a very nice thing to say—so I do apologize…Mr. Ed!…

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

Methinks folks should be leary of them who are against starting rumors … but have no problem believing or spreading them. They’re a lot like those who wouldn’t dare “throw the first stone” … but don’t mind being second or third!

Goodnight Gracie

By Brad

March 14, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

I am a person who is loyal to the Braves, they could win 162 games or loose the same amount, and i will always love the Atlanta Braves. I am 20 years old and have seen Chipper Jones since he broke into the league. Chipper is one of the greatest Braves of all time and deserves to be treated like one. Unlike all this B.S. reporters who say he needs to be traded he is injury pron now and will never play 130 games agian. But anyone who is a Braves fan who can come out and say the same thing about him, please you might as well be a Damn Yankee fan. Chipper has meant more to the Braves than Jeter or anyone else to a team over his term in baseball. Yes, Chipper might get hurt and be out for a while, but he is still my fav player and will always be one of them. And if your a true Brave fan get off his back and support him.

By Daybed Wagmoe

March 14, 2007 2:02 AM | Link to this

i enjoyed Boog’s broadcast tonight, i didn’t think he was bad at all. anything is a welcome change over bob rathbun and jeff torborg.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 2:16 AM | Link to this

Head Coach, what’s the skinny on Andrus? Well, in part, he’s skinny. Because he’s an 18-year-old kid. A Venezuelan who’s an extremely gifted defensive player still learning to hit and drive the ball.

What do you mean the Braves “aren’t saying anything?” He’s their No. 2-rated prospect (behind Salty), but he’s just a kid, going to be in minor league camp, still probably at least 2-3 years away from competing for a major league job. He’ll be at Myrtle Beach (High A) this year, probably.

By the way, bit of a stretch to compare Escobar to Furcal, to say he could be Furcal, only taller.

Escobar is 24, the 10th-rated prospect in the organization by Baseball America, and he hit .264 with two homers, 45 RBIs, and THREE stolen bases in 428 at-bats last season in Double-A, his first full season. He had a total of 228 pro at-bats before last season, in Rookie League and low-A Rome.

As a 22-year-old in 1999, Rafael Furcal hit .322 with one homer and 41 RBIs in Class A while leading all of pro ball with 96 stolen bases in 126 attempts.

As for your saying I must have forgotten Escobar’s .407 batting title in Arizona Fall League against “the best pitching prospects in baseball,” uh, no. I didn’t forget his batting title in the AFL, which was very encouraging. But it was 22 games, and who told you it was against the best pitching prospects in baseball? Very few of the best pitching prospects go to the AFL. It’s traditionally a hitters’ league, evident by the seven hitters who batted .345 or higher this year in a six-team league, and only five pitchers with ERAs under 4.18.

I mean, Blue Jays 1B prospect Chip Cannon hit .352 with 11 homers and 29 RBIs in 105 at-bats.

Escobar is very impressive, a strong kid with a cannon arm. But let’s not get carried away by comparing him to Furcal (who’s much, much faster and has an even stronger arm), or by saying he hit .407 against the best pitching prospects in baseball. He did it against mostly good, not great, prospects.

And he played only 22 games, 86 at-bats.

From the BA prospects book that came out this winter, on Escobar:

“His smooth swing produces line drives from gap to gap. Though aggressive at the plate, he has good plate discimplie and pitch recognition. He has consistent hands and a strong arm that’s a plus at any infield position. Escobar hasn’t shown the ability to drive the ball that many scouts projected before the 2005 draft. His modest range could prevent him from playing shortstop in the majors. He has just average speed and is a tick below-average from a middle infielder.”

Somewhere between that evaluation and what we’re hearing from Braves officials this spring, probably lies the truth. Remember, if they’re trying to deal him, or even listening to offers, they’re going to talk him up as much as possible.

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 2:27 AM | Link to this

Brad, you’re 20 and time will likely change many of your perspectives … try real hard not to change!

By MS

March 14, 2007 2:29 AM | Link to this

How about Prado’s slide to avoid the tag stealing second in the 7th? That was sweet and led to the then go-ahead run. I was watching the game at a bar so I didn’t have audio to hear what Boog and Joe said, but was that a straight steal or was the hit-and-run on (but the pitch was so high and away that Bohn didn’t have a chance at it)?

From what I’ve seen of him, Prado seems to have good baseball instincts, and should be a good utility guy in the future (as DOB suggests the Braves feel).

By Coach

March 14, 2007 3:05 AM | Link to this

Urban dictionary: whats the skinny , meaning what up or whats going on. DOB , you misunderstood me , I was asking why Elvis Andrus isn’t listed on any of the current Braves minor league rosters and if there is a reason or if its just an oversight on the part of the MLB/Braves website. Furcal was an undrafted amateur free agent when he signed with Atlanta , Escobar is a 2nd round pick and a five tool talent. The book says : average speed , modest range , below average infielder. Gee , you could be talking about Renteria except he has a jelly arm compared to Escobar. If the Braves deal him , he will probably end up as somebody elses starting SS and I can add one more Ex-Braves draft pick to the long and growing list of major leaguers.

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 4:07 AM | Link to this

Coach, most likely, David O’B is deeply indebted for the explanation … it’s a good thing you weren’t wanting the skinny on some some fat kid … then we’d all be confused!

night …

By ssiscribe

March 14, 2007 6:31 AM | Link to this

Top of the mornin’ all. DOB, just read your piece from last night on Hudson. Aren’t you glad this was spring training, where you could just throw a line in on Acosta, instead of a regular-season game, where you’d been rewriting your gamer after the implosion in the ninth?

All in all, I too was encouraged with Hudson. He got the ball up more than his previous starts, especially in the first two innings, but settled down.

After a decent night’s sleep and looking back at my observations, I’m very impressed with Francoeur. Indeed, it’s merely three at-bats that I saw, but he looks like he’s showing more discipline with the toe tap (toe journalism alert!!), keeping hands back, etc. Good signs, indeed, and I think people forget this is his FIRST full spring with the major-league club. I think that will make a difference.

Glad to see Paronto’s foot is OK. Thought we’d have to rush Journalist Jimmy to Happy Place USA for some exclusive reporting.

OK, time for work. Will try to chime in as the Braves head down crowded U.S. 192 to Osceola (sp?) County Stadium, an absolutely great place to watch spring training baseball. You’re right on top of the players, the dugouts are open (had a conversation with Frank Robinson a few years ago during the game as the then-Expos played the Astros). Neat place. Y’all enjoy.

The Scribe abides. Selah.

—30—

By Coach

March 14, 2007 6:38 AM | Link to this

I’ll just change my name to Coach ,journalist and we can all chew the fat and shuck and jive. Can you dig it ,Bob !

By Charlie in Athens

March 14, 2007 6:50 AM | Link to this

CORRECTION: Dave, I hate to break it to you, but “chronic feet and troublesome oblique” may rhyme, but it’s not alliteration. Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds in the beginning of consecutive words. Don’t dare doubt me Dave. Nice column anyway though.

By The Grinch

March 14, 2007 6:52 AM | Link to this

Who the heck hid my alleve? My back’s killing me and I can’t sleep. Nice to see Scalp ‘em returned to drag the class level of the blog down a full two notches. Bob, methinks the only “Rocky” folks know on this blog did steroids and mangled the English language, not the one who rode (not played) Black Jack. DOB, what’s the “skinny” on Wickman? :-)

By Gil in Mechanicsville,hack

March 14, 2007 7:28 AM | Link to this

A feisty bunch of crackers are we this morning? In going back and reading last night’s post I am once again reminded that one should not try to type after taking Xanax and pain killers of any stripe.

By brandon

March 14, 2007 8:11 AM | Link to this

can we please send manny acosta back wherever he came from?

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

Chuck in Athens, that’s why you live in a college town and I’m a hack traveling around covering a baseball team. Truth told, I didn’t really think about the exact definition of alliteration when I wrote that line hastily as Bowman sat next to me, talking about one inane topic or another yesterday afternoon. I just thought it was a good way to take a shot at the big man (not Wickman, Bowman).

Grinch, can’t answer that question. Question has no answer, obviously.

Coach, I obviously knew what you meant by “what’s the skinny.” Just trying to have some fun here; that’s still allowed right? Not everything has to be gravely serious, right?

I wouldn’t read one thing into the exclusion of his name from any rosters you might be coming across. Though I’ll check today just to make sure, I’m sure I’ll probably get a look that says, ‘I have no idea what you’re talking about’ when I ask why Andrus isn’t showing up on any roster. But I’ll ask, just to make sure nothing strange has happened and not been announced. Again, he’s not on the 40-man and I’m sure he’ll be in minor league camp, that’s all that’s necessary to know, really.

By Michael

March 14, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this

Hey David,

Stick to writing about what you know, the person you saw is a member of a Motorcycle Club, not a gang.

You didn’t refer to the senior citizens as old f*%#s, so don’t make a comment that is just as disrespectful to the Man you saw riding nearby.

Michael

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this

Michael, absolutely no disrespect intended. Change has been made to “club” instead of gang. My bad.

Actually, can I blame that one on Bowman? (He actually had absolutely nothing to do with it and probably wouldn’t know the band Outlaws from the motorcycle club of the same name, but he’s a lot bigger than me, so I’ll blame him just in case).

By Braveheart

March 14, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

But gang sounds so much cooler, doesn’t it? I would rather be thought of as a member of a gang than a member of a club. For example, do the bloggers on here want to be known as a member of the DOB/MIB gang or the DOB/MIB club? It really sounds like the beginning of a George Carlin type skit comparing football and baseball, clubs and gangs.

DOB, thanks for being objective and fair with the players and for trying to keep the fans honest, fair and objective with the way they look at these players.

Reading the New York Post’s reaction this morning to AROD’s interview with Mike and the Mad Dog yesterday afternoon left me quite disgusted. Totally unfair shots being taken at him. AROD actually handled the interview well, was honest, and answered all the tough questions except for the Jeter question. But the Post goes out and totally distorts the interview. After hearing the interview yesterday and then reading what the Post had to say today about it, I think I must have been listening to a different interview than the one the Post writer was listening to. For any of you interested, go to wfan.com and nypost.com and compare and contrast what AROD actually said and how the Post distorted what he said.

After hearing and reading that stuff, you really do come to appreciate DOB and the job he does with this team and with these players.

It’s amazing because I always hated AROD but the New York media is actually starting to turn me into an AROD fan. It’s amazing how someone like him can be turned into an underdog you root for because of the completely unfair way everything he says is twisted by the New York media.

By Tom

March 14, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

DOB: Who do you have winning the Big Dance? (can’t pick your favorite team Kansas, though)

What do YOU expect from Langerhans this year? Not the Braves but wondering what your thoughts are of him. Strict platoon?

And wonder if the Braves will offer Alay Soler a contract and convert him into some bullpen help? He was just cut by the Mets but he could be a nice cheap pick up/reclamation project.

And if Langerhans isn’t the answer, I’d still love to see a trade for Scott Hairston of Arizona. Kid can hack and there’s no spot for him on that roster.

By Toneboy

March 14, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

Nice to read someone willing to give Chipper a break. About time someone balanced out the unfair criticism he receives - good work DOB.

When he’s healthy he’s still a stud. Braves fans who are too quick to hate him won’t miss him until he’s retired.

By rammerjammer

March 14, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

DOB, good morning.

If the season started tomorrow, would Langerhans be the everyday leftfielder?

One other question…which Braves are having eye-opening springs; guys who are clearly going to make a strong impact this season?

Thanks.

By Mad Mike

March 14, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

Kudos for backing Chipper, DOB. My sentiments exactly. It would be a shame for him to get the impression that he is not appreciated by the majority of Braves fans. Love your blogs, DOB.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 14, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

I kinda like the new nickname for Chipper, but I have to step up to the plate and disagree with the blogger that said “the only person that should be referred to as Hoss is Toby Keith,” “the only person that should be referred to as Hoss is Toby Keith,” “the only person that should be referred to as Hoss is Toby Keith,” “the only person that should be referred to as Hoss is Toby Keith,”

Everybody south of the Mason Dixon line knows that the ONLY “Hoss” in country music is MISTER Waylon Jennings.

By Billy Bruce

March 14, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

So Chipper is a Gator fan? I KNEW there was something I loved about him! I agree anyway—give the guy a break. Even in his bad off years—he’s better than what we might get stuck with otherwise. Chipper’s one of those Mr. Baseball guys for sure. Our Mickey Mantle. Except Chipper’s better behaved (now anyway) and is chomping to play (Gator style) when he’s injured. He’s not a whining Bob Horner. Sorry about Hampton but that’s reality. No one hates it more than he does. How’d you like to try to go to sleep while hoisting that legacy? And David—life’s tough. Get a Blackberry. ;-)

By Patrick

March 14, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

DOB,

What do you think of Jose Ascaino? He seemed to pitch very well in spring training and seems to have a bright future. What do the Braves think of him and why cut him so early?

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Hillbilly, absolutely correct. Only Hoss in country music is “Waymore,” Mr. Jennings. Rest in peace.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Patrick, Ascanio’s got a real good arm and a bright future, provided he can get his maturity up to the level approaching his talent.

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Grinch, Lane really was a three Letter man and it’s true that he knew more about blackjack than most dealers. What I find most intriguing is that though he had plenty of gold, he was so superstitious that he always carried the same nugget around with him … just for luck.

I can’t remember which position he played … probably centerfield … like Andruw, he had the range to so do.

And to think I always thought people were suggesting I was uneducated when they said I was alliterating.

Coach, journalist, I can dig it but I’m not sure about the shucking … depends on whether we’re talking about roastin’ ears, peas or oysters.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this

Tom, if I can’t pick my team, I ain’t picking.

(I picked my favorite team. Which I do every year. Got them beating Ohio State in final, and have Texas knocking off Ol’ Roy and his dastardly Tar Heels in the Sweet 16.)

By Eric Roberts

March 14, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Chipper is the smuggest, cheesiest, and dorkiest player in the major leagues. And I don’t care how much you rationalize and justify it, he’s very tender and injury prone. But at least he can rake when healthy. He’s definitely our best option at 3B and a huge key to the Bravos’s success this year. And, Hoss is a terrible nickname.

By Tom

March 14, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

DOB: LOL I can appreciate loyalty such as that. I’m not done with my brackets but right now I have Georgetown. (favorite team is Maryland, however)

Loyalty to your teams…now there’s an article. I notice more and more how people’s teams are those that they picked when they were the best, not those teams that were their home teams.

Are you from Kansas?

By journalist jimmy smith

March 14, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

glad to see acceptance of the nickname “uh, goose” for chipper jones. uh, goose eliminates any cofusion with plain “goose” gossage. uh, goose may prove prophetic as the season progresses if the too large shoe slips off on the basepaths.

and will uh, goose shave off the chin ornament before the regular season? and how many bloggers know that goose chin is served in restaurants? oh, the humanity! don’t link those thoughts.

now, the name “boog” for the new announcer. jimmy smith found the new broadcast team most enjoyable. but can this man be “boog”? this team has a boog of its own already and this will be evidenced all year in the dugout. and it is nice to see booger back blogging with us. booger is the conscience of this blog.

and with booger blogging again, will carroll rogers return? some girls don’t like boogers. and can we talk pie in the same paragraph as boogers? karo syrup is a prime ingredient in pecan pie and it is very sticky business.

now, what is the skinny on wickman? that is a worthy question. like dob says, a question with no answer.

and if pete made reference to the blogs last night … is pete reading this blog right now? if so, journalist jimmy smith thinks pete is a most outstanding broadcaster. best in the business. professor.

By Lew

March 14, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Well, there we have it. Shuckin and jivin is old enough that I know what it is, but Bob still doesn’t. He must be REALLY old. Showing the Journalist’s age.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 14, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

journalist bob is so old that journalist bob shopped at wool before wool merged with worth. now, baseball … how is it that paronto was struck “on the instep” when the ball clearly hit a toe position? more misplaced toes on this team? oh, the humanity! won’t js hire a good toe man? doc, is doc out there? does doc do toes? good fan, blogger, doctor, toe specialist for this team (passes to every game, doc (wink, wink)). double parenthesis, oh, the humanity! journalism is jimmy smith’s life!

By TennesseePaul

March 14, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

I wrote that line hastily as Bowman sat next to me, talking about one inane topic or another yesterday afternoon
LOL! I knew it! This is his tactic. When you least expect it he hastily scribbles down everything you are writing, changes a word or two and submits it for his deadline.

Well things have changed. I was going to make the opening day. I had the rooms booked and the car reserved. But I got word that two of my family are coming back from Iraq that weekend. I had to change my schedule from Atlanta to Columbia so I could drive down to the coast to see them. It’s a little bitter sweet. I couldn’t wait to see the games, but this is nice too. And now the whole family gets to watch the games together, though not at the stadium. Anywho, I’ll be coming out for other games this year. I have to. It is my duty.

By Lew

March 14, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Ten Paul-Make sure you take the portrait with you. I am sure they are culturally deprived, having not been home for so long and I’m sure they have not seen baseball portraits for many months. Say hello for me. Maybe the defense department should commission many baseball portraits and pass them out to all the soldiers. Does anyone have Haliburton’s number?

By dougp

March 14, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

DOB, so the Braves open up in Philly with a day game on the 2nd. If the Jayhawks make the final game, do you have a contingency plan for getting to Atl to watch the game? The braves are off on the 3rd? Sorry about that, I probaly just jinxed the Jayhawks into an early exit, but I had to ask.

By TennesseePaul

March 14, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Lew: I’ll put a man on it; see what he can come up with. Halifburton is taking off to Dubai. It’s hard to say… they could be interested in the portraits as sort of a home-sick remedy for employees. Of they may seek a portrait artist for all the Soccer and Cricket stars, or Oil Dearler Champions of the region.

By KC

March 14, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

DOB: Do you really feel that Hudson looked “strong”?

I guess, as you mentioned, he did only allow one hit over the 3rd and 4th innings. But it just seemed disconcerting that everything was either a flyball or a line-drive. Didn’t see to any hit on the ground.

I’m far from panicked, as I know we’re only a couple weeks in to the spring… but I didn’t feel great about his start last night.

How did it compare, in your opinion to his first two starts. He was keeping the ball in the ground in those starts, wasn’t he?

By Lew

March 14, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

TenPaul-The Bionic Artist does not do soccer (even if they call it “football” or unless paid well for it). I absolutely refuse to paint Dick Cheney’s portrait (unless paid EXTREMELY well for it). It was all I could do to finish the John Tesh portrait for DOB’s second Wurlitzer win. It has been suggested that next year’s Wurlitzer portrait should be of The Captain and Tennille. What do you think? I was kind of thinking Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, myself.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Tom, born and raised in North Carolina (born in Durham, raised in Greenville), lived two years in Memphis, then attended high school and college in Kansas (dad worked in meat packing industry, got moved a few times).

DougP, unfortunately won’t be able to attend if they were so fortunate to make the final. Job is the job. Gotta be in Philly.

By Lew

March 14, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Global warming must be doing something. It will be 60 degrees here in Vermont today. Last week the low temperatures were 25 below, actual temperature. I’m just not sure about 85 degree ranges of temperature in winter in Vermont-in one week. It’s supposed to snow on Friday. Go figure.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 14, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I had a hard time picking Kansas in the Final Four. Even though, I think they will make it, I couldn’t pick them because I already had two other Big 12 teams in. Yes, I went with the Longhorns (The Razorback fan gasping heavily as he typed the forbidden words) over the Mets of College Basketball (UNC). And I went with A&M over Ohio St. because nobody else did, and because Acie Law IV is big time clutch in the spotlight.

By The Grinch

March 14, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’m not sure but I think it’s 1-800-DIE-CHNY.

Hmmm, I wonder if PETE’s the “Mystery Braves Blogger.” That would certainly make sense.

JJS: Bobbycox in the kitchen making a pecan pie? Oh, the mucilaginosity!

DOB, check out Bill Simmons’ bracket on ESPN’s Page 2. He picks Kansas as well, but says that in itself means they cannot win.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 14, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

What is the more nerve-racking week of y’all’s lives: Yankee/Red Sox week or Duke/Carolina week.

My vote goes to Duke/Carolina.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 14, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

“fat kids”?…now that just ruined an otherwise beautiful day—referring to obese children as “fat kids”—not appropriate, even in the wee hours…

By fat kid

March 14, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Yea, i’m damaged for life now…pass the taters.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 14, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Oh and another thing, does anybody agree with me that the Gators Joakim Noah looks like that little blue varmint on the Lilo and Stitch cartoons? Check him out on the AJC Sports Page and tell me he don’t.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly, I’ve got KU and Texas making Final Fou and almost picked A&M, but figured I couldn’t expect three Big 12 teams to make it. But I agree on Acie Law _ best clutch shooter I’ve seen in several years….

Lew, did you see in California the other day, several cities including Fullerton (near LA) broke their record high temperatures for that particular day by 12-14 degrees. Just ridiculous.

Just met choppinmama here at the game. Nice lady.

By The Grinch

March 14, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Hilbilly, the Yankees/Red Sox only have a week? I thought it was the entire spectrum of baseball played, past and present. Anyone notice the Gator cutting down the basketball net in the photo on the sports page? He looks like a cross between Arnold Schwartzenegger and Earnest P. Wohrl. Good lord, whoever beat that child down with an ugly stick deserves life in prison without parole. And whoever took the photo deserves a new camera. Speaking of Ah-nold; off to the gym.

By miguel

March 14, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, I lived in the triangle for a while back in my garage band days: Cary, Apex, Morrisville. Spent a fews weeks in Carolina Beach. Played at the Front Street News in Wilmington once. Grew up a Georgia Tech fan though, so I really learned to hate Duke and Carolina fans. Always felt kind of sorry for the State folks. Duke and Carolina basketball fans are insufferable a’holes.

By braves fan since 47

March 14, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe the so called fans who disrespect Chipper and what he has done over the years. If anyone was watching last year, whenever he came back off the DL, he didn’t miss a beat. He was right on all year which is not easy to do. Get off his back. You idiots are treating him like New York is treatin AROD. He gives it 100% and has always played hurt. Hhopefully this spring he can get back in that grove and even for 120 to 130 games, who would you rather have Chipper, Aybar, or Orr?

By TennesseePaul

March 14, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Lew: The Captain and Tennille or the BeeGees. If neither than ABBA. DOB writes about these three groups so much I’m sure he’d appreciate it. Navigating Roberts perpetual 1D conversation and DOB’s obsession with the Captain, ABBA and the Bee Gees trifecta made for a tough winter on the blog.

By TennesseePaul

March 14, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

DOB: It wasn’t just Fullerton. LB was up to 92 or 93 on Monday. On Tuesday it was back down to the 60’s after sun down. You can’t dress for this kind of weather. Come June though it will be a solid 55-60 degrees with a thick haze for about 2 weeks. Then it will turn into desert heat amplified by concrete and asphault.

By The Grinch

March 14, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

“Well you can tell by the way I use my walk/I’m a journalist; no time for talk.” Sorry, I couldn’t resist. Now I’m really leaving.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 14, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Fan since 1947, did you mean this spring Larry aka Chipper can get in a groove or grave??

By Paul

March 14, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave,

Couldn’t you see Mr. Durant carrying Texas all the way to a national championship just like a certain Danny did back in the 80’s? As I look at the brackets I feel that at least 10 teams could win it all. I love the way Georgetown is playing. Green is a tremendous player. I think they will win it all.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 14, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Grinch,

Yeah, you should have seen Stitch P. Noah-Schwartzenegger’s family when they showed them in the stands during the SEC Championship Game. It looked like George Clinton and the P. Funk All-Stars.

By N8

March 14, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

DOB & Lew

Was 74 degrees here on Monday, and the record high before that was 63 set back in the 60’s. High tomorrow is supposed to be in the upper 20’s.

MAN I LOVE THIS STATE! LOL!

By Micah

March 14, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Hank was practically raised by “Waymore” therefore, “Mr. Williams, JR. by the powers invested in me (none) I hereby bestow upon you the honor of “HOSS”.”

Just moved from North Raleigh area and never felt an urge to pull for either Carolina or Duke. But, that said, I will pull for the ACC and I think Carolina has the greatest chance of bringing home the championship…. Kevin Durant is my pick for Adolph F. Rupp Trophy….Reyshawn Terry is my pick for final four MVP….(you heard it here:)

Go Bravos!

By DonCoburleone

March 14, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Duke will make the Final 4 this year… Nobody expects them to (unlike previous seasons), so of course they will…

By Greg in TN

March 14, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Play ball friends…

We’ve taken the first step to erasing the bad memories of last night’s ninth. Scott Thorman doubled in Yunel Escobar and the good guys are leading 1-0, now in the top of the second from Kissimmee.

By Braveheart

March 14, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

you just gotta love it when a guy named Eric Roberts calls someone else cheesy. takes one to know one I guess. any of your cheesy low budget movies coming out any time soon, eric? BTW, Hoss says to tell your sister he likes her horse teeth

By Micah

March 14, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

NCAA Basketball Tournament Most Outstanding Player - Reyshawn Terry

Adolph F. Rupp Trophy - Kevin Durant

Naismith College Player of the Year (men’s)- Kevin Durant

Naismith College Coach of the Year (men’s)- Billy Donovan

John R. Wooden Award - Kevin Durant

What can I say? I believe the kid has put some much needed sparks into college basketball this year. He reminds me most of Reggie Williams (Georgetown)…

By journalist jimmy smith

March 14, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

this gray colored glove uh, goose is using this season … what kind of hide? something off the ranch? something that spoiled? oh, the humanity! a gray glove. and what does uh, goose charge to autograph a gray glove? or was it autographed when shot? now, milo hamilton … makes a journalist appreciate pete even more.

By Bob, journalist

March 14, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Apologies to the obese children … it’s just that when I was growing up, a work still in progress, I had several obese friends but didn’t know what “obese” meant … had to call ‘em something.

Seriously, obesity, especially in children, is no laughing matter … no intent to be insensitive … the “fat kid” reference was just my shucking and jiving with the Coach.

By Will

March 14, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

DOB - Can you find out who will make the trip to Tampa to face the Yankees? Also, for an away night game like tomorrow, do the players that don’t make the trip stay back and practice / take BP at Disney. If so, do they practice in the morning or afternoon. Thanks.

By David O'Brien

March 14, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Paul, I could certainly see Durant leading them to the title, but it wouldn’t be nearly the feat of Danny and the Miracles. There were certainly no other McDonald’s All-Americans on Danny’s team. There’s a ton of talent on Texas’ team, arguably the best (performing) freshman class in the country.

NEW BLOG IS UP

By journalist jimmy smith

March 14, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

tony pena, jr. gets no respect. tony pena, jr. is playing some good baseball. really good glove. can play 3 infield positions. fast. “p” player. better not lose tony pena, jr.

By Doug in Tucson

March 14, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

I have been a Brave fan since 1958 (10 years old) and Chipper is almost up there with Eddie Matthews…no other brave third baseman comes that close.Being from Arizona I can’t even say Bob Horner. I thank Chipper for every minute he has been with the Braves!

By dssd

March 14, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

“The Braves lost some power in LaRoche and Giles that isn’t likely to be regained (this year) by their replacements. Jones ‘n’ Jones is a powerful one-two punch, but Andruw still has too many holes in his swing to be ‘the guy’, and hitters like McCann and Francoeur aren’t quite solid and experienced enough to step into elite status, either. ‘”

McCann hit over 330 with 24 bombs and 90 rbi’s. (approx) If thats not elite status for a catcher what is???

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 14, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Well Bob—you could have shown a little creativity, and called them by their names…

By alan from Atlanta GA.

March 14, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

I think Chipper is a great 3rd baseman and destined for the Hall Of Fame. Unfortunately he is having problems with his feet. He is a team player. I remember watching Jackie Robinson in his last years with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Physically his legs were gone and he was having problems. I am making this comparison because when their careers were winding down, they displayed loyalty and gave it their best. Mike Hampton, on the other hand should retire, at 34 and with his injuries he might as well. With all the money he’s been given [can’t say earned] he should apologize to the fans.