Braves

By Alan

March 22, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Slow news day, DOB, but amusing story about Chipper nonetheless. I imagine there’ll be plenty of fodder after today’s game. Speaking of fodder, what’s up with Tony LaRussa and his DUI? He must have felt absolutely naked when he “posed” for his mug shot without his sunglasses. Especially if the picture was taken at night - he always wears his shades at night.

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Is it possible that Aybar is simply pouting because he was not an option to be a starter at second base?

By T-Town Dawg

March 22, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

I’m 1st!!!

By Thrillhouse44

March 22, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Any word on how long McCann’s contract may be?

By Matt

March 22, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Next week on “One Braves Life to Live,” Chipper and the media guy have a second fight over the affections of Nurse Sandy … Stay tuned.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

where to begin? no one can talk to a horse, of course. should this apology be made in public as dob suggests, be prepared for nuzzling. yes, nuzzling. it won’t be pretty.

now, transition … some of journalist’s best work was left on the previous blog.

and now, it is good to read that the old maid game has returned to the clubhouse. chipper is a hoss at old maid.

nascar - if hoss speaks fluent nascar hoss will know that ‘hine tars must be properly inflated for the car to run at full speed and handle well.

so, too, must the toe on a professional athlete be conditioned properly to ensure athletic prowess. toes are not to be trifled with.

now, has the lineup been posted? will hoss really play?

and aybar, upside the dl if you ask this journalist. and whither tony pena, jr. acknowledged here as having the defensive skills others lack? jimmy smith says put tony pena, jr with mccann’s daddy and teach tony pena jr to slap the ball somewhere. tony pena, jr could be a star.

now, jimmy smith suggested earlier that ryan langerhans would have a really good start - and ryan langerhans is having just that. ryan langerhans is hitting and fielding like a star outfielder. will ryan langerhans cut down on the strikeouts?

and now, who will count the mizuno emblems on hoss today? how many visible when at bat? how many visible when in the field? and what about in the dugout? answers later.

mizuno gum? with canned ham gel. mmm…

By Thrillhouse44

March 22, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Can we trade Aybar back to LA for Betemit and Furcal?

By Mike

March 22, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Dave, I have a question.

I was at Viera last night. I enjoyed watching all the R-Braves play the second half of the game. My question: why would the management leave Jonathan Johnson out there to get creamed like they did? If memory serves, the same thing happened to him a few days ago. I know he’s not going to be on the team when camp breaks but he’s part of the team right now. Couldn’t they at least have another minor-league pitcher out there to come in and try to bail him out? It just seems a little unprofessional to me.

By flbravesgirl

March 22, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Good for Chipper. Most athletes wouldn’t bother.

I like that news on McCann. Hope the whispers are right.

By michael

March 22, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I’m glad I’m not the reporter who has to interview Tony LaRussa today. That would stink.

Another solid blog, dude. Saw the award thing. You seem to have a good handle on how to make this blog thing work, but sometimes I wonder how you find the time to get it all done.

Now, for the third time I shall ask – I may have missed your response to this question the other times I’ve asked it because I do have like a real job and this blog has become so popular that it gets really long after a few hours and I get really depressed about the future of the human race when I read lengthy ad hominem attacks by bloggers who obsess about the Betemit trade – what kind of baserunner is Kelly Johnson?

By Mike

March 22, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Dave, I was at the game in Viera on Wednesday and enjoyed seeing the R-Braves play the second half. My question: why would managment leave Jonathan Johnson out there to get creamed like that? If memory serves, the same thing happened in another ninth inning a few days ago. I know that he is not going to be on the team when camp breaks, but he is a team member now. It seems to me that they could have at least had another minor league pitcher ready to pick him up. It all seemed sort of unprofessional to me.

By jh

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

Dave, with the Braves possible excess of decent starting pitching now, and with Smoltz’s age and past injury problems, along with the injury issues with some of the other starters —- Do you think Bobby would possibly consider a six man starting rotation to ease the workload ? Love that Van Morrison song…. along with most of his earlier stuff. Those albums have always been on my “A” rotation.
On the new music front, You ought to check out a local artist(from the Lake Oconee area, where I live) named Zac Brown. He’s in the folk/country rock vein, and is an awesome accoustic guitarist. He goes into a little bit of “into the Mystic” on a live CD he has out.

By brent

March 22, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Good news on McCann.

Do you think Francouer will get offered the same deal?

Do you think he’d expect more? Do the Braves think he’s worth less?

I think what chaffed so many Braves’ fans last year when Betemit was traded, was that the news coincided with the news that Chipper was hurt again.

IMO, there’s not much difference between the two guys. However, we knew what we had with Betemit, and as it turned out, we needed him right then.

People seem to forget about that closer with appendicitis we got in the deal.

Go Braves!

By TK

March 22, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

I read on the last post about another trade with the D-Rays. I hope the Braves tell them that their ship has sailed. They act like they are the only team to have anyone that anyone would want. A name I like that maybe the Braves could look into is Alex Rios with e B-Jays. They could use some inf help and pitching help (heard they may cut Thomson lose). Don’t know if the B-Jays would part with him and I don’t know what his salary is. Just something to think about. I do like Ryan though and hope he gets a chance to show what he can do.

By michael of b'ham

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

Does anyone know how many games the bullpen blew for Hudson last year? I realize he kinda stunk it up last year but he still managed 13 wins. How many more could he have had? Also, is it Chipper’s bad feet/toes or oblique that cause him to “run” crooked when he hits a homerun?

By SoundsFamiliar

March 22, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Funny how the Braves are suddenly starting Smoltz instead of Davies. Are you guys maybe just a little bit afraid to lose to the Mets? Sorry, had to say it.

By AdirondackDave

March 22, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Aybar for Betemit sounds good to me except that we need to unload an infielder or two, and Betemit may be a payroll problem soon if not already.

By David-ATL14

March 22, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

Great song DOB, Tip of the Proverbial cap on the blogger’s award. I agree that Aybar’s unwillingness to play will aid Pena.

By Patrick

March 22, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

DOB—

You are quick!

6 years 28 million for McCann I just heard!?!?

By tvsportscaster

March 22, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

atlantabraves.com is now reporting the McCann contract is official. It’s 6 years for 27-point-8 million dollars with incentives.

By Henry

March 22, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

“with the Braves possible excess of decent starting pitching now, …”

I really don’t think that’s an issue. Overabundance of relievers, yes. Multitudes of middle infielders, yes. Excess of decent starting pitching, no. Enough really good starting pitching to make the playoffs? That, my friends, is the question of 2007 for your (and my) Atlanta Braves. The mysteries of first base, second base and left field pale in comparison. The serviceability of the hooves at third can be overcome. But if the second and third spots in the rotation don’t have excellent seasons, we’ll be looking up the ladder at the hineys of the Phils or the hated Mets — a sight I for one can’t stomach.

Not that either of those teams is so great. The Mets’ rotation has at least as many questions as ours. Best rotation, in fact, may be in Florida.

So go Huddy. Go James. Go Braves.

Henry

By tfbrave

March 22, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

DEAL IS OFFICIAL http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070322&contentid=1854251&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp&cid=atl

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

michael of b’ham, it is good to have michael here while we are talking ham. now, to michael’s question … journalist jimmy smith believes the crooked run is perceived by hoss as a cool thing. much like leaving the top button of the uniform unbuttoned with a lucky old maid card tucked inside. some athletes like to look cool - some hop at the plate - some point to the sky -some run crooked. jimmy smith has never considered chipper’s crooked run as something toe related or oblique related. that run looks more like it is caused by an ill-fitting athletic supporter. still, dob will be with hoss in a little while and we will ask dob to pose michael’s question to hoss. then michael can have an answer straight from the hoss’ mouth. dob should be careful asking this question, though.

By SoundsFamiliar

March 22, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

For those of you who seem to be banking on the Mets supposed pitching difficulties, have any of you even glanced at the TERRIFIC springs that Maine, Perez, and Pelfrey have had? Take a look at their spring starts and then tell me you wouldn’t trade your rotation for the Mets’ in a heartbeat. And before you tell me that spring doesn’t matter, keep in mind how much spin you’ve been putting on Hudson’s extremely shaky results lately….

By Henry

March 22, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Truly, truly outstanding news about McCann. Whoever blogged last night about needing to lock up the young stars now was a prophet. Great move by baseball’s best GM, who seems to be learning a couple of new tricks in his old age.

By flbravesgirl

March 22, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

The mlb.com page was in such a hurry to get the McCann story up they put the wrong picture with it (Langerhans instead of Mac). I’m glad to see the Braves appreciate & believe in him enough to take a step they don’t normally do.

Now if Francoeur would just get on board. I like him but he’s really disappointing me with the contract issues.

By Oil Soap

March 22, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

A few thoughts from Oil Soap:

• Good to hear Chipper was even slightly regretful for ripping that guy’s head off. I’m a big Chipper fan…seemed outta character for him.

-I feel like there is this thin line between love and hate in the Braves clubhouse when it comes to playing hurt. Davies plays with a torn groin, arguably destroys his confidence in the process and Cox is upset with him for not being upfront about it. Reitsma: same thing. Now Aybar is reluctant to risk further injury to his wrist and everyone starts questioning his desire. I mean I know nothing about the guy but from watching Aybar hustle on the field he just doesn’t seem like a Pavano to me.

-I’m on a major Van Morrisson kick right now. I’m listening to the following albums on a loop: Astral Weeks, Moondance, …Street Choir, and Veedon Fleece. I am partial to Street Choir. Any other recommendations?

By Rodger

March 22, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Sounds familiar,

In a word-

NO

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Maine, Perez, and Pelfrey? Ha-Ha! Three guys that the Mets are so darn confident in they had to go sign Sele, Sosa, and Chan Ho. Those signings told you all you need to know about how good and relieable Mets management thinks those three kids are going to be this year.

By MBATL

March 22, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Great to hear talk of signing McCann. I think he’s a year earlier, in terms of ML service, than Mauer was when he signed his deal this year - so that’s a pretty strong move by the Braves.

I really think we’ll wait another year on an extension for Francouer. He needs to ‘normalize’ his OBP a little before we offer the big bucks, and there’s no rush to do it now, imo.

By Ross

March 22, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

And just why is Chipper going to say he’s sorry…how many times does he have to say”no not today”?

By stynes

March 22, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

That’s fantastic news on McCann. I’m glad the Braves were willing to pony up and make such a bold offer. I think the Indians were very wise in their signing of Sizemore. I hope Franceour will do the same thing. I’d also like to see James and Davies locked up.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

travis haney is young and will bounce back. travis haney shows aptitude for baseball coverage. too bad that travis haney will now follow the ole ball coach. good wishes go out to travis haney. now, had travis haney been a more seasoned journalist perhaps travis haney would have been wise to the ways of journalists who must have their story. for instance, dob is certain to always get the story. to all non-journalists, jimmy smith has this to say - not trying to give away any secrets mind you - a few sugar cubes in the pocket will do the trick! dob has devoted one pocket to cheese products and another to the sugar cubes. hoss responds as hoss responds but sugar cubes are calling hoss’ name. now, will carroll rogers make use of sugar cubes in her interviews with uh, hoss?

and scribe, this journalist is also eager for the season to begin - and jimmy smith will take jimmy smith’s sons to the game as well. though little jimmy smith is now about 6’2” tall, and tiny jimmy smith is 6”1”, still, little jimmy smith and tiny jimmy smith will accompany jimmy smith and baby seal to games this season. scribe must say hello. can tell it is us - four guys watching baseball - little jimmy smith will be wearing a braves hat.

By Oil Soap

March 22, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

A few thoughts from Oil Soap:

• Good to hear Chipper was even slightly regretful for ripping that guy’s head off. I’m a big Chipper fan…seemed outta character for him.

-I feel like there is this thin line between love and hate in the Braves clubhouse when it comes to playing hurt. Davies plays with a torn groin, arguably destroys his confidence in the process and Cox is upset with him for not being upfront about it. Reitsma: same thing. Now Aybar is reluctant to risk further injury to his wrist and everyone starts questioning his desire. I mean I know nothing about the guy but from watching Aybar hustle on the field last year he just doesn’t seem like a Pavano to me.

-I’m on a major Van Morrison kick right now so I was happy to see today’s lyrics. I’m listening to the following albums on a loop: Astral Weeks, Moondance, …Street Choir, and Veedon Fleece. I am partial to Street Choir. Any other recommendations?

By Lew

March 22, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Sounds Familiar-You keep telling yourself that the Braves are scared of the Mets. Keep telling yourself that your pitching can do the job. You need all the positive reinforcement you can get. Keep in mind on Pelfrey and Maine and their spring numbers-so what? Check out the spring numbers of Smoltz, Cormier and Davies, who probably won’t even make the team. You know what? None of those numbers mean anything. However, even Hudson’s numbers are good. Can you say the same about ElDuque, Sosa, Park or Sele? Didn’t think so. Keep up that positive thought. It might get you an A in a Dale Carnegie course, but not much else.

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

It’s six years at $26.8 million, more possible with escalators in contract. Only $500,000 this year, so it doesn’t affect their payroll (he was already set to make $400,000)

GREAT deal for the club and damn good deal for McCann, who has a lot of security now playing a position where one collision could change the course of your career.

Francoeur just said he’s thrilled for McCann, his bud, and that Francoeur and Braves haven’t talked about such a deal yet.

Andruw told me it was a great move, he wished they’d have done it with Furcal, etc. Andruw also told me nothing new to report on his contract status, no talks yet.

By Jared

March 22, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Kyle Davies pitched that one run, complete game against the Mets early in 2006. Was about the only real good game Davies pitched last season. I don’t think the Braves are afraid of the Mets in a spring training game.

Good news on McCann. Now extend Smoltz’s contract and I’ll really be happy.

By TheSouthernJackAss

March 22, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Oh, the perils of a beat writer—as he enters the clubhouse, wide-eyed and eager for a fresh scoop, a morsel of gossip, or just any tasty tid bit of news. He walks in unprotected and vulnerable, his only weapon is a notebook and a cheap Bic. His first encounter is with the old patriarch Bobby Cox. There stands the old skipper, cleats snapping on the hard concrete floor throwing sparks like lightning bolts in every direction, nares a flaring, coffee cup in hand, he tips the bill of his cap and scratches his forehead as he notices the writer’s “presence”. The skipper stares at the beat writer like a herd of musk oxen staring down a she lion, but his only reply is, “Golly Gee!…Gee Whiz!” as the lowly journalist quietly tip “toes” past him.

Just as the newsman thinks he can breathe a sigh of relief he comes face to face with the big reliever Soriano. Good day sir!…but no reply, just a scowl as the writer picks up his pace, and the tip toe begins to sound more like a tap dance.

Finally, he makes it to the locker room, and there in the first stall he stands. The player who’s mere presence has struck fear into the hearts of players on every other team in MLB, even though some of that fear was struck from the DL. The player that “lives for this.” He has his head buried deep in a $16 million dollar feedbag as he chomps away oblivious to the beat writer’s presence, he occasionally stomps a hoof, but not very hard, as he flicks his tail to shoo away the hossflys. Then suddenly, without warning, he notices the miniscule journalist standing there, and as he pulls his head quickly from the feedbag he whinnies, “Uhh, No comment!..How many ummm times do I uhhhhhhh um have to tell you that?” And with that, old Hoss squares up and gives a mighty kick with both hooves right into the bread basket of the unsuspecting journalist sending him out into the parking lot. But in so doing, Hoss strained an oblique, pulled a hammy, tweaked a groin, tore a ligament, and injured both toes. Anyhow, that’s the life of an award winner!…

By Sonny

March 22, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Let’s hope they can lock-up McCann to a 7 year deal…the guy is a WINNER and more importantly, a quality human being! I think the verdict is still out on Frenchy (OBP is still way to low).

Yo DOB…being the music lover that you are, you should get your hands on the new Kings of Leon album, it’s called Because of the Times. It’s a progression from their previous 2 albums, but their core sound is still intact, and if you ask me…it’s their best record yet.

By John

March 22, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Will Calvin Johnson be the 1st player selected in the football draft and raise Georgia Tech to new, unbelievable heights of exposure?

By rammerjammer

March 22, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Sounds like Aybar needs the DL and T. Pena stays onboard for at least a couple of weeks. Oil Soap makes good point about guys playing hurt. Yet we also hear that Aybar doesn’t want to play because he would have to bat righthanded against righthanders! This is not a hungry ballplayer. This is J.D. Drew with a different accent. Now it makes sense why L.A. wanted to unload a guy with great stats. Like one of those candy Easter bunnies…pretty on the outside and hollow on the inside.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

SJA-I’m proud of you, son. That was probably the best, most creative post you ever made. You got to put people down without cussin’ em out or being overtly nasty. I wouldn’t go quite as far as Bob, but there may be a modicum of hope for you, yet. Maybe.

By Mad Mike

March 22, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Reason #152 to read DOB’s Braves blog: Improves your vocabulary.

Had no idea what a guayabera was before 12:15 today. Seriously, I have to check dictionary.com at least once for each blog/article I read.

Great song choice today, too. My favorite part of the song is “I want to rock your gypsy soul/Just like way back in the days of old.” Makes me think of this hippie chick I had a thing for in college. FYI.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

not bad from southernjackass. journalist was hanging on every word. of course, southernjackass used much of jimmy smith’s material, but that’s okay. at least southernjackass was not attacking other bloggers - got it down to only dob now. dob is hardened to the ways of the jackass. jackass knows a little baseball - maybe will blog some baseball with us. now, mccann is a star for this team and his long-term tenure will bode well for all. salty must be wondering how he ended up in an organization with the next johnny bench ahead of him. salty is gone unless the braves decide to teach salty a new position. they must decide if salty should be a brave out of position (like kj) or a switch hitting catcher that someone else will covet. bet on salty getting traded when salty’s value is at a peak. now, tony pena, jr. someone must save tony pena, jr. and what is the value of a canned ham these days? anyone price a canned ham lately? ms. cox chambers? blogging with us, right?

By Summerteeth

March 22, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Ahhh…3 hours of surfing chest high waves and all is well in the world when I return…

I like Chipper even more now…

McCann signing is brilliant for both sides…

John Edwards stays in the race…

I just scarfed down a Quizno’s like it was a jello shot!

By Ricardo

March 22, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

DOB -

Now that McCann’s deal is announced - what are your thoughts? Seems like he agreed to a VERY team friendly deal. That’s great to see, IMO. Of all of the young guys we have, I think he’s got the best chance to really be something special over the long term. If I were JS, I’d probably wait on Frenchy till the end of this year and see what happens. No way he’d agree to a deal like Brian.

By eware

March 22, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Sonny, when did that Kings of Leon album come out? I thought we still had a few weeks. I’ve loved their last 2 albums.

Hooray for McCann. I love this deal. I think he’s going to be the face of the franchise moreso than Francoeur. But, I’d also like for Francoeur to get a similar deal. There’s something cool about hometown boys playing for the hometown team.

By Brad in MT

March 22, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

I am so thrilled to hear about the Braves locking up McCann…this is a step in the right direction for the Braves and hopefully they will try to do the same with Frenchy. Now if they can extend Smoltz and Andruw I would think that I had died and gone to heaven! Lets get the season started!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

had dob heard from luckovich yet? oh, the humanity! luckovich won best of cox, too! still one up on dob. but luckovich has no wurlitzer.

if any pulitzers end up on e-bay we will get one for dob. until then, bask in the best of cox and enjoy the ham.

By Dave knockahomer

March 22, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

McCann is THE mAN….. certainly glad the Braves had the intelligence to wrap up this GREAT catcher now! He is Hall of Fame already and may, barring injury, etc., could surpass Johnny Bench.
All I know is that Francouer is okay…..undisciplined at the plate and frankly, couldn’t carry McCann’s jock strap……if you know what I mean. Francouer needs to PROVE himself THIS YEAR and next before looking for any extensions like Brian’s. Francouer is simply a strikeout waiting to happen.

THANK GOD MCCANN IS OURS FOR A LONG TIME! HE DESERVES IT!!!!!!!

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

rammerjammer,

I don’t think we should speculate on Aybar until he at least misses quite a few regular season games or unless we know a lot about his injury.

Injuries are something you usually can’t control. And in baseball a minor injury in the right spot could be huge.

Let’s wait and see.

I will still defend the trade from the Braves’ perspective. Aybar is still young, cheaper and quite possibly a little more talented than Betemit.

By Alan

March 22, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

Did I write, “Slow news day,” at 10:55 this morning? Mea culpa. The McCann signing is terrific! Not to mention “unprecedented,” as JS put it. The Wickman and Smoltz signings last September also were unprecedented. This is very good news. Makes me wonder what else JS has up his sleeve this spring …

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer,

I agree that so far McCann has been far more impressive. But give Francouer some time. He’s still very young.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Hi All,

The worls is good! Received my Masters tickets on Monday and by Braves season tickets TODAY!!! Can’t wait for next week end!

SJA, excellant post!

Grinch, your screenplay in the last blog was spectacular!

SoundsFamiliar, you are correct, Maine, Pelfry and Perez have had nice springs. As Lew said, so have Smoltz, Redman, Hudson, James, Cormier and Davies. Why don’t we talk about bullpens? Is anyone left in the Mets bullpen except for Wagner? The kid from the Royals is stinking up the place, Heilman wants to start, Sanchez on the DL, in the words of the esteemed journalist, oh the humanity! If you want to come to a Braves blog and pound your chest, why don’t you talk about Reyes and Wright? Anyway, we will see soon enough!

DOB, what is Aybar like in person? Do you think HE might be trade bait?

Thoughts?

By MJ

March 22, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

I wonder if signing McCann is signaling a change in philosophy for the Braves in locking up the young talent while they’re still somewhat affordable? I am curious about what A. Jones told DOB that he wished the same had been done for Furcal. Or is it just that they see something special in McCann and didn’t want to see him get away.

By Voice of Reason

March 22, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

DOB - The signing of McCann to a 6 yr. deal, although relatively modest by most MLB inflated deals, brings with it a few questions. Does this signify an end to the hold on payroll that has seemingly been in place with the impending sale of the team? (I understand it doesn’t significantly affect this year.) Does this signify a willingness by the incoming ownership to secure the core of this team? Could this signify a loosening of the purse-strings by current/incoming ownership to secure the services of a future HOF’er currently roaming the expanses of center field? Could this signify that the long and torturous sale is close to being done? Am I asking alot of questions? And most importantly, just what the heck is a guayabera, anyway?

By Greg in TN

March 22, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Greetin’s folks…

Had a mid-week business trip to get out of the way before talking a little more baseball on the now award winning DOB/Man In Black blog. Let me add my congrats to DOB for this achievement onto the stacks that have already been coming in from the masses.

Wonderful news on McCann’s contract. The terms are great for both sides, a win-win situation for sure.

SoundsFamiliar…. No thanks!

By Metropolitan Man

March 22, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Dam, I was hoping Mcann was Queens bound when the time came but o’well. KC I, just want to know if the bet is still on (all braves fans invited to join)

Answer me this braves fans, does this sound like the 1st shot of Glavine recruiting Smoltz??? I’m not saying Smoltz is Queens bound but this looks like they might want to finish their careers on the same club or just watch the best day of my career, winning 300.

NY Post:

If it works out, Tom Glavine, who has 290 victories, would like to see if his friend, John Smoltz, can attend his 300th win this season.

Glavine said he will know at least four days ahead of time if he’s in position to get his 300th, and if Smoltz isn’t scheduled to pitch at the same time, Glavine potentially could call his buddy and ask him if he wants to come see it.

“I would certainly love to be able to extend the invitation, yeah,” Glavine said.

Glavine and Smoltz were longtime teammates on the Braves.

“I’d love for him to be there,” Glavine said. “I don’t know what the likelihood is.”

Glavine threw seven innings in a minor league game yesterday. “I’m right where I want to be,” Glavine said of his readiness for Opening Day.

By rammerjammer

March 22, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

This is not about the Aybar trade itself.

It’s just very “Drewish” of Aybar to be out when anyone reading between the lines sees that other players would likely gut it out and play.

He is, as you correctly put it, “young, cheaper and quite possibly a little more talented than Betemit.”

If, to turn your words around, Betemit is older, more expensive and quite possibly less talented than Aybar, why did L.A. trade Willy?

Answer: Because there’s more to a player than his stats. Aybar’s are strong, but his heart? Well…

Perhaps he should be the middle infielder JS deals, not Prado or T. Pena.

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Alan, you cursed us with “your slow news day” line.

By the way, Chipper flied out to deep left in his first at-bat, then pointed to the pressbox and flipped us off. OK, kidding on the last part….

For those wondering why Thorman’s not in there, his wife had labor induced this morning. Wife is here in Orlando with him, has been for all of spring training.

By TBFnB

March 22, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

While were talking contracts…

The Braves will have J. Smoltz and A. Jones as free agents next year. If I am correct AJ is paid $13,000,000 and smoltz $8,000,000. Here is the question, would you not re-sign Smoltz in order to retain Andruw? As I figure the braves could use the money they save by not resigning smoltz and sign andruw to a contract averaging 20 million.

If you had to choose which would you pick?

I think for the intrest of the ball club and not taking emotional connections into consideration I would have to pick AJ.

By Hunter

March 22, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

SoundsFamiliar…swapping rotations? 1-4, no thanks but the number 5 spot(Pelfrey for Redman) I’ll take. I mean trading a top prospect for a so-so veteran fifth starter? Come to think of it…isn’t that the Mets policy? (Scott Kazmir anyone?)

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Oh, regarding the KELLY JOHNSON BASERUNNER QUESTION: He’s a good baserunner, aggressive with pretty good, not great, speed.

Glenn Hubbard told me last week that Kelly will go soon as the green light is given, whereas some guys like Langerhans, you have to prod them to go. “Some guys don’t have larceny in their heart,” is how Hubby put it (man’s got a way with words, huh?)

By flange1

March 22, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Mertro Man,

Everything I read indicates that if Glavine gets 300 wins this year, he will retire. I don’t see him recruiting Smoltz to a team that he is not playing for, do you?

By KC

March 22, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Great news on McCann. When’s the Francoeur deal coming???

DOB: Who’s scheduled to pitch today?

Did I understand correctly that Kyle Davies will be going tomorrow for the Braves.

If so DAMNIT! I really wanted to see Hudson’s next start. I thought it was tomorrow, which is a televised game, but instead it sounds like Saturday, which will not be telivised.

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Voice of Reason, I asked Schuerholz a couple of questions along those lines, and he said they didn’t have to run it up the pole with the new owners (but he and Frank Wren discussed it with Terry McGuirk, who probably did run it by them, I imagine).

But I wouldn’t draw too many conclusions from it. Certainly can’t be a bad sign, though, because they could have just said no way, not commiting to pay that to a catcher or a guy with only 1-1/2 seasons in.

But it’s a club-friendly deal, in that McCann could be leaving many millions on the table if he has more seasons like he had last year and baseball’s pay scale keeps rising. The Braves bought out one or two years of free agency, depending on whether they pick up the option. McCann trades some potential earnings for great security. God forbid he gets hurt tomorrow, he’s set for life now….

Oh, a guayabera is a shirt that’s big in Latine countries, Great for wearing while smoking a cigar, and a straw fedora would be perfect with it (don’t have one of those with me, though).

By Metropolitan Man

March 22, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Flange 1, Galvine’s contract with the METS of course has an option for 2008.

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

rammerjammer,

Well, I think there are several possibilities of why the Dodgers traded Aybar. Possibly because they thought a lot higher of Betemit than they should have. Possibly because they already have a stud thirdbase prospect and they knew he was no more than a backup. In Betemit they probably felt they get an older, more MLB-ready player who they can dump or move into a backup role as soon as Andy LaRoche is ready. Or some combination of the above reasons.

That’s my view of the situation based on what I know.

By Frank

March 22, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Great Van Morrison song. Thanks! He’s one-of-a-kind.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 22, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Is todays Braves line-up the regular season line-up or close to it?

By Lew

March 22, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

VOR-A guayabera is a Cuban shirt worn outside the pants with considerable stitched detail on it. Smoltz in NY, Mets’ fans. Don’t you wish? It’ll never happen in this dimension.

By Ricardo

March 22, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

TBFN -

It’s not that simple, unfortunately. If you’ll recall, Tim Hudson will double his salary next year from this (an increase of almost $7 mill) and that almost east all of the “savings” with Smoltz coming off the books.

Bottom line - Liberty’s gonna need to pony up some coin to keep our boys in the future!

By Andy

March 22, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Dave, can the Braves come to Hampton and say “You aren’t pitching enough to earn as much money as you are” and could he reduce it? Has that ever happened with a player? I know Chipper did that a little bit when we needed players. Any news if Liberty is going to increase the payroll and when will Liberty OWN this team??? Does the delay mean MLB may not approve?

By MATT

March 22, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Let me get this straight; Chipper was asked twice and he said no and when asked a third time he was less than polite about it? No offense but I would’ve told that guy to p** off! He was told twice before he didn’t want to discuss it! I sure as hell would not have apologized for it either!! Reporters are so funny. They think that the players actually like them! The players tolerate you because they have to and on occasion you can make them look good. They don’t trust you as far as they can throw you. They don’t respect you. You guys can a spin a story positively or negatively, doesn’t matter, as long as people read your column.

By Andy

March 22, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Dave, is there another SB guy/lead-off man in the organization that could take that spot if KJ fails? Do we have a guy like that? Since Furcal left, it hasn’t seemed that way.

By Jared

March 22, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

6-8 years of Andruw for 18-20 million a year (around 25% of the team’s payroll as it stands). I really doubt Andruw’s body will hold for 6-8 years.

Smoltz for 2-3 years at somewhere around 8-12 million. Much more reasonable.

The emotional pick is Andruw Jones. The logical pick, based on the Braves’ renewed focus on pitching and the money over the period of time, would no-doubt be John Smoltz.

Ask yourselves, if Smoltz went tore his shoulder today in this spring training game and was out for the entire win, how drastically would the Braves’ chances fall? The starting rotation minus John Smoltz is a trainwreck.

The Braves could use the money saved by letting Andruw Jones go to resign Smoltz and have a little to toy around with. It’s not even close, at all, Smoltz is no-doubt the all-around better pick. Extend Smoltz!

By Andy

March 22, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Last thing DOB, any rumors that the Braves might deal Renteria and put Escobar as the starting SS. Then you save some money next year to pay Andruw, right?

By rammerjammer

March 22, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I recall DOB saying the Dodgers scout referred to the trade as “garbage for garbage.” Garbage. Pretty harsh assessment for a guy with Aybar’s numbers, don’t you think? I think L.A. did an EKG on Willy and concluded he was the Tin Man.

By Metropolitan Man

March 22, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

It doenst matter which lineup it is NO Chop Zone, they are playing the METS so they will lose.

By ellaguru

March 22, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Kings of Leon is out 4/3. But already out are so many good records: Low, Andrew Bird, Ted Leo, Modest Mouse, Ponys (Ponys rawwwk!), LCD Soundsystem, J Dilla, Nick Cave Live CD/DVD,Graham Parker, Mitch Easter (!) Hit up your local independent record store. There’s a good one in Orlando, isn’t there, DOB?

McCann—that is so great. Dang sure don’t grow All-Star Major League catchers on trees. Dave, what does this portend for Jarrod S.? Is his infield education ramping up?

By Braves fan

March 22, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

First of all, why would the Braves want Tony Pena on the 25 man roster? And second of all, what sorry a* team would pick him up on waivers that has the Braves worried about losing him? The guy can’t hit his own weight, which is truly sad because he weighs about a buck 75 soaking wet. Who cares? Let him go. I want to see someone like Martin Prado or more importantly Yunel Escobar get that last spot on the roster. Hmmm, sub .200 hitter with zero power or a .300 hitter with 30 HR potential? Which one should I choose?

By Lee

March 22, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

God forbid McCann gets hurt because the Braves owenship is getting so tight the only cather they will be able to get is coach Eddie Perez in from the bullpen.

By Michael

March 22, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

DOB…In you opinion…what do you think this means for Salty???

By Dave knockahomer

March 22, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer,

I agree that so far McCann has been far more impressive. But give Francouer some time. He’s still very young.

Shaun: Francouer is a month older than McCann. Can’t use age for an excuse, ok? tis lack of plate discipline….and maybe Francouer has learned something this spring, but he has a ways to go. Still, he is a long ball threat, but I’ll take consistency.

Francouer: born Jan. 8, 1984 McCann: born Feb. 20, 1984

McCann hit .333 last year with 93 RBI’s in 130 games, 24 Home Runs Remember, he was injured for a spell.

Francouer hit .260 with 103 RBI’s in 162 games.. 29 home runs.

MCCann had only 5 less home runs than Francouer but Brian played about 32 less games. Yes, Brian was injured, but because of someone else’s horrid slide into home plate…….yet, percentage wise, out did Francouer.

Stats don’t lie!

GO BRAVES

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 22, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Lew, I’m impressed with your detailed knowledge of a guayabera. I grew up in a hispanic neighborhood and didn’t like them. They looked like fancy bowling shirts.

By KC

March 22, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

MetroMan: I didn’t understand your last post in the previous blog. Are you trying to change the terms?

I’m completely up for the bet as I outlined it in the previous blog. Cool?

By eware

March 22, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

I’m on my way after work, Don. You’ll have to let me listen to the Ponys.

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

John, Ga Tech gets exposed EVERY year.

MetroMan, Glavine’s contract has that ‘08 option because he’s worried it might take him that long to get to 300. If he’d stayed with the Braves, he would’ve passed it the year before last.

I thought a guayabara was a big, hairy, homosexual (rim shot). No, scratch the rim shot. Blah.

Off to the gym.

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

rammerjammer,

Yes, I remember that comment. That was harsh. But I think what he meant was neither guy should be a regular.

I think you are overestimating Aybar’s stats. Aybar’s numbers are decent but nothing that says he should be a regular in the majors. His OBP is nice but he has not power and little speed—not a good combo for a everyday player.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

guayabera must not get wet! that is all journalist is going to say about that. if, down by the cages before the game, one spots a ricky riccardo look-alike one will know it is dob. cheese is also a good tip-off.

and, why is everyone so hostile to reporters? hoss probably had to ask a girl out more than one time before she would go out with him - so why shouldn’t reporters be allowed to ask hoss questions more than one time?

of course, the girl might say something like, “stop asking me out, hoss, aren’t you married?”

and dob might be persuaded to say, “c’mere big fella, have a sugar cube …”

now, why does jimmy smith think a straw fedora might be eaten during an interview?

and where is carroll rogers? does carroll rogers know how much guy curtright blogged with us?

By Renegator

March 22, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

As bad as we have been saying the Met’s rotation is - has anybody noticed that Sele is throwing a 2 hitter against most of our starting 8?

By ElbravoX

March 22, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

DOB- Any idea if AJ sleeps on is back or side? Will that affect a future trade? Does Smoltz shave every day? Will he retire if so? Does Chipper flosses on a daily basis? Do you think he flosses day to day? Francouer, Coke or Pepsi?

By Voice of Reason

March 22, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Of all of the questions I listed following the McCann extension, ellaguru may have asked the one most directly related. Exactly what does this mean for Salty’s future in the Braves organization? Is something more on the horizon? Could there be yet another shoe to drop? If so, is it one of Hoss’ shoes? Hoss-shoes? Are they pitching hoss-shoes at camp? Could that be considered a toe hazard? As we all know, toes are not to be trifled with. JJS: What have you learned in this regard? Why am I asking so many questions?

By 1

March 22, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Does locking McCann up have any affect on Salty’s status in the organization or his position by the plate?

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

andy, i don’t think they can reduce the contract. if you remember AROD was willing to reduce his contract to join the red sox. the union would not let him. you can defer your money like chipper did but you can not reduce it, only defer it. i think i am right based upon the arod thing

By Jared

March 22, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

I don’t know how many hits the Braves have, but they’re still currently winning 2-1.

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer,

Francouer is much worse than his triple crown stats seems to indicate. He costs the Braves an out in over 70 percent of his plate appearances last season.

The thing is, Francouer’s on-base percentage is likely to improve; most player’s do with age. Is he ever going to walk 100 times a year? No. But he could develop into a very productive hitter.

Just because McCann was ready quicker and he is younger, doesn’t mean Francouer isn’t going to develop into a productive hitter.

By Thrillhouse44

March 22, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

DOB, if the guayabera, I suggest you send it back to the ex and ask for a new one.

By Jo

March 22, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Absolutely the right move with McCann….the kid is for real. He has all the skills, and he puts butts in the seats.

Thanks for the Van, DOB; just having that one run thru my mind is alleviating the stress of my day!

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer,

Your argument is a strange one. Just because a younger player is more productive than a slightly older one, doesn’t mean the older one can’t eventually catch up somewhat at least.

All players don’t develop at the same age. How players develop can depend a lot on their skill set.

To assume Francouer is always going to be a lot less valuable than McCann simply because he’s now less valuable is to assume Francouer isn’t going to improve.

By Metropolitan Man

March 22, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

KC, I think we need to refine our bet to just the braves and the METS meaning whoever wins the head to head battle, then the loser dons the others uniform colors. I’m all for this becasue this will finally put some legitamcy to the once strong rivalry. I know it should be better this year because the METS finally won the division. So the loser (KC) will have to wear METS gear I provide for him, plus a sign I provide for him (with megahorn), and do this during the busiest part of the day on at a location of the winners (ME) request. Anything you want to add KC becasue this bet will probably refined more than braves starting 9.

By Dave knockahomer

March 22, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Shaun: FIRST…..McCann is older than Francoer by a month or so, okay! Francouer WILL develop IF he is taught plate discipline and if taught, he will listen. He will be a good one but most likely an upper 280’s average…. Long ball is what he is good for even though, percentage wise, he hit fewer than McCann if you take in number of games.

so, please..FRANCOUER IS NOT YOUNGER THAN MCCANN…………..

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer,

Not to beat a dead horse as I tend to do, but perhaps a real-life illustration will help.

In 2003, Angel Berroa won the AL ROY. Mark Teixiera finished fifth. Now Teixiera is one of the best hitters in the game while Berroa’s on the verge of being cut by the worst team in baseball.

That’s an extreme example—it’s not likely McCann is going to become a bad player in the next 15 or so years—but you get the picture. Players improve at different rates and in different ways.

By matt

March 22, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

I would say that pretty much screws Salty chances at C. He’ll either become the next 1b or be traded. I guess possibly a 3b. I’d love to see them try and find this kid a position though, I think his bat is going to get better

By Chop Chop

March 22, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

If McCann can come close to what he did last year for the next three or four years, the Braves committed highway robbery with this deal. However, as DOB stated, catchers get beaten up so much that a long-term contract and the job security it provides is a very valuable thing for a catcher. If you look at Francoeur, his earning potential is higher than McCann’s because 1) outfielders don’t take that constant beating and 2) the career of an outfielder as an offensive force usually lasts considerably longer than a catcher (guys like Piazza, Bench, Fisk and Pudge Rodriguez are a rarity. Most catchers are more Corky Miller than Brian McCann). When you find a catcher like McCann, you lock that guy up ASAP. Francoeur definitely needs to improve as a hitter, and if he does, he’ll get his long-term deal.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Metro Man, I am well aware of Glavines contract, and I am also well aware of the interviews that he ahs done recently that lead most to believe if he gets 300 this year he is done.

ellaguru, know any local indy record store inside the peremiter? Criminal is a bit young for me! I am real interested in the Mitch Easter record. Besides the obvious REM connection, I really dug Let’s Active.

VOR, I think your questions are valid and to the point. The McCann signing to me DOES have ramifacations to Salty, Francouer, and Andruw. I think Smoltz will be resigned if he wants to pitch.

Grinch, definately NO rim shot on that one….

By ElbravoX

March 22, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

KEEP TONY PENA!!!

By Jared

March 22, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

“FRANCOUER IS NOT YOUNGER THAN MCCANN…………..”

But you just wrote:

“McCann is older than Francoer….”

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer,

I’m the first to point out that Francouer wasn’t a productive hitter in 2006. All I’m saying is it’s really not fair to compare McCann and Francouer at this point and to assume Francouer will never come close to McCann’s level of offensive production. You seemed to be downing Francouer and holding him up to a higher standard just because his young teammate has been a much better hitter so far.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Wow, for a young infielder who can’t hit, T Pena just hit a 3 run homer of Billy Wagner…

No need to worry Metro man, it is just spring training…

By Jared

March 22, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Last I looked: Braves OWNING Mets today by a score of 7-1.

By DonCoburleone

March 22, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Don’t mean to sound like a know-it-all, but after the McCann signing of a long-term deal this morning(and Francoeur in the next couple weeks), I have to put up what I wrote yesterday… IS JOHN SCHEURHOLZ TAKING ADVICE FROM ME?

“We let Andruw walk, sign McCann, Francoeur, James and whoever else proves themself over the next 2 years (Davies, Cormier, Gonzalez?) to long term deals and go from there… Deals like Minnesota made with Johan Santana, Joe Mauer, and Justin Morneau. Lock them up in their 1st or 2nd years of arbitration with 5-6 year deals, securing them in their prime for less than market value… If we are going to have the payroll of a small market team, we may as well start operating like one…”

By Yars

March 22, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the Braves expect Kelly Johnson to steal 30 bases, & I also don’t believe he is just some, ‘stop gag’ at 2B for a season. I know Atlanta has a lot of infield prospects, but if KJ has a solid season, I don’t see why he can’t be the Braves 2B for atleast a few years. A plus for KJ is that he can play OF, so if the team rather go with Escobar, Andrus, Lillibridge, or whoever else at 2B for 2008, they can always throw KJ back in the OF.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

raisins, this journalist will attempt to answer raisin’s questions: yes, possibly, probably not, no, no, yes. and raisins may have hit upon the answer to the mystery … we have labored under the impression that chipper was having new shoes cobbled. perhaps that is not it at all. maybe chipper was shod rather than getting a new pair of leather shoes … hmmm … and if only toe plates are legal in baseball will horseshoes be the end of hoss as we know hoss? illegal equipment?

take any group of 23-year olds. some will be gaining maturity - some not. some think deep thoughts - some shallow. some are disciplined - some not. some are smart - some not smart. some are worthy of a long-term deal - some not. oh, the humanity! js knows who to sign and who not to sign to the big deals. mccann’s mama and daddy did a good job with mccann and now mccann has realized mccann’s dream and is set financially for life. bet this is really true for mccann because he appears wise beyond his years.

now, what happens if the guayabera gets wet? oh, the humanity! stink!!

By OddJob

March 22, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

I think most of us agree,McCann is the one guy this team couldn’t let get away.There simply aren’t any hall of fame quality catchers on the market.Add to that him being a local guy and a perfect fit as a person and it,s a no brainer.Oh !! to all you reports,I’m sorry man! not sure what for, I just like to emulate Chipper.

By ellaguru

March 22, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Flange, my store is also called Ella Guru. It’s in Toco Hills, on Druid Hills. Fair amount of new stuff but we are a used store first and foremost. And we just ACT young around here.

The Let’s Active records have all been reissued, too. The Easter CD is out and will be back in Monday, Grid willing. Drop on in.

By MGL

March 22, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Metro Man, was that the same Wagner, your #1 rated closer that gave up 5 ER to the Braves AAA squad today? Still feeling good about your pitching staff?

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

With all due respect, that has been the strategy for a lot of teams for a while now. Look at Oakland with Zito, Hudson and Mulder in the early 2000’s.

Actually that’s a good move for all team, not just small market teams. Often times players hit their peaks before they even reach free agency and a lot of teams overpay for what players have done and not what they’re likely to do.

By Greg in TN

March 22, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Nice day at the ballpark from what the box score gleans.

Smoltz went 6, gave up 7 hits and an earned run, walked one and struck out 5. Gonzalez, Moylan and Villareal pitched a scoreless inning apiece. Gonzo and Villareal both surrendered a hit apiece. A nice bonus in all of this is Smoltz picking off Jose Reyes in the first.

Oh, and SoundsFamiliar? We don’t want your bullpen either…

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 22, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

The NCAA coaching carousel begins. ESPN reports that Tubby Smith is leaving Kentucky to assume coaching duties for the Minnesota Golden Gophers. And as far as rumors go, Kentucky and Arkansas both want Billy Gillespie from Texas A&M. Michigan wants Stan Heath from Arkansas. Kentucky also wants Billy Donovan from Florida. Let’s see how many of these rumors get ##-canned after the tournament is over.

By Yars

March 22, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

The front office should try to lock up Francoeur like they did McCain, whether it be in the next few weeks, or after the season. I think the fans are finally realizing that there is no way that Andruw will be re-signed. As for Smoltz, it’s anyones guess. If Smoltz has a Cy Young type season, no way Atlanta can afford to keep him. I truly believe Smoltz has another 2-3 years where he can be an effective starting pitcher. I just don’t think it will be in a Braves uniform. I keep wondering what the opening day roster will look like. If Aybar starts the season on the DL, who will be the infielder to take his place until he comes back? Orr? Pena Jr? Prado?

By Shaun

March 22, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

It’s going to be interesting to see what the Phillies do with Ryan Howard. Howard is already 27. Can he (and his agent) snooker the Phillies into giving him a huge, long-term deal even though he’s not likely to be worth his asking price past the next two or three seasons? (Notice I didn’t say he won’t be good after the next two or three seasons, just that he isn’t likely to be worth the money he’s probably asking for.)

We’ll see if they learned anything from the Jim Thome situation. They signed Thome to a huge, long-term deal when they had a very good, young, cheap option (Howard) in the minors. They could have brought up Howard and spent that money much more wisely.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

ellaguru, WOW, that is close to me! I will try to stop by tonite!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

March 22, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

I know I’m getting old when I read a term or phrase on here and think to myself, “what the hell does that mean?” For example, I thought Grinch’s reference to a rim shot had to do with basketball. Went to the trusty Urban Dictionary, the font of all “hip” knowledge, and what do I find? Rim shot means uhhh, well, it seems everybody here but me knows it but me, and it’s disgusting!! Oh, the ignorance!!! Anyhow Grinch, good call on the shirt - I agree with your analogy, rim shot or not.

JJS - from the prior blog, and your 36 hour ordeal on biscuits, here’s a suggestion. First, go to the oven and find that knob that has numbers (e.g., 100,200, 300, 400 potatoe, five potatoe, six potatoe.. ok, enough of that), turn it COUNTER CLOCKWISE, and feel the heat. I have always found that biscuits bake much better at 475 degrees than room temperature, or merely putting them in the sun, hoping solar rays will make them rise.

DOB - your comments the other day on McCann’s stats, being in “tall cotton” and all, proved prophetic. Shall we assume that management read the blog, realized what they have, and acted on that? When JS retires, I’m nominating you for the GM position. You’ll either be a star, or will learn what it is like to get second guessed by a bunch of know it alls.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 22, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

This is kinda funny to me:

I was scrolling through a Razorback message board this morning and came to the Baseball section. Someone had posted the LaRussa arrest story on the board. Now these folks are die-hard, rub-it-in Cardinal fans. The kind that turn any baseball thread into a Cardinal thread, and tell you how terrible you are for rooting for the Braves.(overrated, Cox is a wifebeater, 1 WS in 15 years, yadda, yadda, yadda) If somebody posts about the Smackover Little League team, it gets turned into a “Pujols is God/Edmonds is the greatest CF/LaRussa invented baseball” thread before you know what hit you.

Anyway the LaRussa arrest thread has sat there ALL DAY….UNTOUCHED. Zero responses….None. Too ashamed to face reality. Hypocritical, Fairweather B@$+@rdS. Go Braves!!!

By Lew

March 22, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Ellaguru-There’s a great store in New England, also. It’s called Newbury Comics. It was started a few years back by some MIT students in Boston and they’ve expanded. It’s the best Indie place I’ve ever seen. I have an extensive music collection (though not QUITE as extensive as DOB’s) and they are the only place up here that is worth checking on a regular basis. The chain stores just can’t help me add to the collection any more. Chop Zone-I lived in Miami for a couple of years, many years ago, right after I got married. Several of those months were spent in a tiny apartment in Little Havana. Yes, I know about guayaberas, just never owned one.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em, Rim shot is when a drummer hits the RIM of his drum with a drum stick. A rim JOB is what you looked up. Kind of a pun I think…

By Lew

March 22, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

Flange-See if you can find a copy of Glenn Hughes “Soulfully Live In The City Of Angels”. A double cd with a dvd. You will like it. He has a great voice and JJ Marsh plays some good guitar.

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Shaun, you are right. part of the keys to the success of the indians success in the 1990’s if you remember was that John Hart had signed all of their good young guys to McCann like deals before they hit arbitration.

By Carolina Lady

March 22, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Scalp’Em, your jjs baking instructions - so funny!!! Now we know the truth, don’t we?? :-)))

By Larry Wayne

March 22, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

“not that any of you would give a rat’s a@* one way or another”

That’s right, yet you went on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on about it.

Shut the crud up. Who cares? Bite me even.

See, now when I apologize in a few days, you’ll have a whole other blog.

You’re welcome.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I have a friend that thinks Glenn Hughes hung the moon, so I will check for it! How old is Glenn? Didn’t he play with someone else that I can’t remember right now?

By michael of b'ham

March 22, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Was Wagner pitching underhanded? T.Pena has good timing,what with all the talk going on about him.

So how come you never see anyone checking Hoss’s teeth. Isn’t that a standard check for a Hoss?

By Scalp 'Em Braves

March 22, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady - at first I thought JJS spent all of this time trying to form his bicuits into the shape of Chipper’s toe, or perhaps tried to form a relief map of Uganda for the folks back home. :o)

Flange - I’m familiar with the erstwhile, clean, non-perverted definition of rim shot, as described in your post. To check my source, click the link below. I don’t make this stuff up - somebody else does.

[http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=rim+shot]

Hillbilly - pretty tasty rumors (roundball coaching carousel) you’ve thrown out there. Will be interesting to see if any come to pass.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

the oven? oh, the humanity! this journalist was cooking on the stove! haven’t been able to use the oven since diane lane left. oh, well, that’s one of the perks of the canned ham - doesn’t have to be cooked in an oven. now, where is dob? still working on that special section, eh? canadians will be featured in the special section - information has been leaked. now, has anyone checked hoss’ withers? and will dob please ask? and why is dob wearing a wedding shirt today? anything bloggers should know?

By Scalp 'Em Braves

March 22, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

I hate trying to make a link work here - ok, here goes….

Rim Shot

By Drummerdad

March 22, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

DOB, The horn line in “into the mystic” is golden. Nothing like being the drummer grooving behind a horn section that’s handling the horn line right.
As for Chipper, what do you do with a legend that’s having a bad time of things and behaving like a chump?

By flange1

March 22, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Scalp Em,

I knew about the second definition but not the third… I don’t really want to think to much about how one would do that more over WHY!!!

By Metropoitan Man

March 22, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Why does Christian Ojore (the guy on the braves page picture) trying out for announcer look like Wilson Beatchameat (Betemit)???

KC waht happened, you changed your mind???

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 22, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly - pretty tasty rumors (roundball coaching carousel) you’ve thrown out there. Will be interesting to see if any come to pass.

Yeah, Scalp ‘Em, I’m not getting my hopes up. Nor am I gonna believe anything until I see it officially. Just like to stir the pot a little for the SEC fans around here.

By knowitall

March 22, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

DonC, I know it’s been a while since I posted on here but that name’s taken. What you meant to say was “I don’t mean to sound arrogant…….”

By flange1

March 22, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Lew,

I know Glenn Hughes, Trapeze and Deep Purple right?

By Scalp 'Em Braves

March 22, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

JJS:

Whither thou wonderest whether Hoss’s withers are withered?

By Rodger

March 22, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Lew, speaking of MIT students and music, sad to hear of Brad Delp doing himself in. Guess the crowd at Chastain is too tough…

DOB, I hope you get a cut of McCann’s contract. Immediately following your feature, he signs for big money-I think he owes it all to you!

By Arkansas Hillbilly

March 22, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

When I first glanced at the front page, I thought it said “Christian Okoye” was trying out for the announcer job. Who all remembers The Nigerian Nightmare? I immediately remembered Grinch’s proposal and foreshadowing of Dikembe Mutombo as the PA. And once again, I laughed out loud.

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Guys nicknamed Hoss should never apologize.

I have never heard of a ruffneck worthy of such a nickname apologize for a darn thing, no matter how badly they should.

The gallop of the Iron-ic Hoss continues to slow down to a trot.

By Jared

March 22, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

“I truly believe Smoltz has another 2-3 years where he can be an effective starting pitcher. I just don’t think it will be in a Braves uniform.”

Oh bull. The Braves can keep him if they want too. They just have to decide if they want to keep Smoltz and let Andruw go, or let Smoltz go for a chance (only a chance) to retain Andruw Jones.

By MGL

March 22, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

From Mets Blog after todays game re Wagner - I don’t understand why mets fans don’t get it. This guy sucks. Period. He blows up in big situations, never stops running his mouth, and honestly just isn’t that good. Sure, give me the argument about his stats, and how he is top 5 in the league or whatever, I don’t care about it. We all saw the same guy get behind hitters and put guys on base when it really mattered. On top of this, as a closer on the New York Mets, he comes out and says that the Phillies (our main rival) is the best team. If I was Willie I’d ask him in my office if he really feels that the mets are not as good as philly. What a piece of crap. Can you imagine if Rivera said the Red Sox are better? Even if its true, you can’t have your closer saying that. End of story. I hate this bum, I have since day 1 and that will not change.

I thought the part about the Phillies being their main rival was humorous as now they are fighting for the NL spring training celler with the Mets at the bottom, one game below the Phillies.

By Mike

March 22, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Here is Tony LaRussa’s mug shot if anyone cares…

By Gene

March 22, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Chipper is a lallygagger. I will be happy when he becomes a full-time cowboy on his ranch.

By doc

March 22, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

cudos to the sja, thought i wouldnt live long enough to see the day. wonder if he/it will come back and say it wasnt him and someone was posting under his pseudonym. sometimes this blog resembles a discussion of whether capote really wrote To Kill a Mockingbird or not with all the literary genius’ on this prize winning affair.

anyway sja, a toast: here’s toes you!

here is some more “toes to you”, dob as well for the job you do.

By Coach

March 22, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

Wow , the McCann deal is incredibly forward thinking on the part of the Braves brass. With the escalating salaries in MLB this is so smart and considering the fact that McCann would have been an unrestricted free agent after 2011 , this deal locks him up through 2013 if you include the team option year. Brilliant job Mr. Schuerholz , absolutely outstanding. If you ask me , I think the Braves have actually saved some money over the long run. forty-one point eight million divided by six equals out to just less than seven million per season if McCann reaches all the escalators in the contract. From 2008 to 2013 , seven million per season for an all-star catcher during his most productive years. It’s pure genius.

By Braves fan 202

March 22, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

MGL where did u find that mets blog? I cant believe 14 years of losing hasnt led them to hate the braves more. I hate the mets after 1 year of losing. Anyways Wagner is good for the mets, mets fans are just yankees who dont know enough baseball to talk with some yankees fans. Same with the jets, anyways i wanna see that blog.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Doc-“To Kill A Mockingbird” was written by a Lady, a friend of Capote’s, Harper Lee. Capote wrote “In Cold Blood”. Flange- You got it. Trapeze and Deep Purple, plus lots of solo stuff. I don’t think he hung the moon, but this particular cd is an excellent live set at what is supposedly a very small, intimate location. I don’t, however, care for the cd he just released a month ago.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

MetroDude, Chop Zone and Sounds Familiar-This deserved it’s own post. I was just listening to XM Home Plate and they came up with this. I will try to hit it verbatim- ” There are so many questions with the Mets rotation, that the Mets’ fans should be allowed to vote for the theme music played everytime Willie Randolph walks to the mound to change pitchers.” Don’t ou just love it? I do.

By Coach

March 22, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Smoltz , Hudson , James and Cormier have combined for 63 innings 13 earned runs and a 1.85 ERA. Sign’s of things to come.

By MGL

March 22, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this

Braves fan 202 -

http://www.metsblog.com/

By A.J.

March 22, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Just heard these words for the first time ever, thanks to Steve Bunin on “The Hot List” on ESPNews:

“huge arena football game”

Wow, I understand promoting your product but at what point does it jeopardize your journalistic integrity.

When you are calling an arena football game huge, that line has been past.

Not that The Hot List ever had much anyway.

By Metropoitan Man

March 22, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

I love it Lew. Where do you think the expression Miracle METS or Aamzins come from? Those teams were the ones nobody saw that came and made teams pay attention. Only MWTS fans can feel the excitement along with the obvious holes. Some METS fans are skeptic, some are estatic. So no matter what the papers and critics say, I know the METS are gonna kick some A** and take some names. LETS GO METS!

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

But Lew, you have certainly heard the rumor that says that Capote really wrote To Kill a Mockingbird but let Lee take credit for it. I think that was what Doc was referring to.

By jed

March 22, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Oil Soap—van morrison recommendations? you listed those albums on your “loop” and said Street Choir was your favorite. My ranking of those would be 1/Astral Weeks 2/Veedon Fleece 3/Moondance 4/Street Choir. (I say this as context.) My recommendations: Into the Music, Live at Grand Opera House (Belfast), No Guru No Method No Teacher; Too Late To Stop Now. Yes, 2 of those are live albums, and they’re positively transcendant. Astral Weeks, in my view, is the greatest songwriter album of the last 50 years.

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Sing it Metro Man, sing it. We’ve got the team work to make the dream work, Let’ Go, Let’s Go Mets! Let’s do it again! (With again meaning let’s have a good nucleus of young talent but squander it all away). Well, at least there is no chance of your best pitcher ending up in the Smithers Institute for the first one or two months of this season like what went down 20 years ago.

By Henry

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

Coach, would love to believe that’s truly a sign of things to come. Let’s see what it looks like on April 22 or May 22, when they’re no longer facing as many minor-leaguers as they are major-leaguers.

Lew, love the quote from XM, and I know of no one more qualified to help the Mets fans on their quest than the denizens of the Man in Black baseball & music blog. Any ideas, Braves fans, for Willie’s theme music as he goes to the mound? (And if Shea Stadium won’t adopt them, perhaps Turner Field will?) Here are a couple of suggestions off the top of my head, but I’m sure y’all will come up with better:

“Here You Come Again” — Dolly Parton

“Rescue Me” — Aretha Franklin

(By the way, Lew, Doc was referring to those literary nabobs who argue that Capote must have written “Mockingbird” because his friend Harper wasn’t capable, similar to those who argue that Shakespeare didn’t actually write the plays attributed to him. They’re wrong, as a recent biographer has shown, but they won’t shut up about it.)

Henry, the semi-literate

By choppinmama

March 22, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

DOB: Add my “congrats” for the Cox award to the long list you’ve already received from my fellow bloggers. It seems that you might have to share a tiny part of the award’s glow with Rosalyn and journalistjimmysmith. They remain hilarious and entertaining with every post.

I saw where Furcal has an injured ankle, carried off the field and x-rayed. Not good for the speedy leadoff hitter a couple of weeks before the opener.

Looks like “DOB: how’s Salty doing?” is going to be your Skip Carey “can you explain the infield fly rule?” cross to bear - at least for this season.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

MetroDude-I imagine the terms came from overexuberant and overconfident Mets’ fans. Kind of like you guys are right now. Isn’t it pretty pitiful that you have to rely on tags applied to your team almost 40 years ago? Believe me, it’s not just Braves’ fans who know how bad your pitching is. It’s pretty well known by anyone who knows anything about baseball. That quote came from Rob Dibble. I think he has some pitching experience. I’m pretty sure he din’t say it just to be a Nasty Boy.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Henry-I was not aware of the Capote controversy. Thanks for the information. I didn’t see either of the recent movies about him. I guess all good writers are accused of having their Francis Bacon.

By BabeOnBaseball

March 22, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

I’m a huge McCann fan and was thrilled to hear about his new long-term contract today. While this sort of contract is unprecedented for a player with less than 2 years of service, I think it’s because he’s an unprecedented kind of player.

The interesting questions this raises for me are: 1) How does this affect the Braves ability to keep Andruw after this year? 2) Where does this leave Salty?

There’s been an argument on my own blog lately over whether McCann or Salty will move to first base so that the other can catch. I contend Salty will make the move, one of my fellow bloggers contends McCann will make the move. I think today’s announcement makes it even more certain Salty will either move or be trade bait, but not everyone agrees.

As for Andruw, I see where this both helps and hurts. In the help column is the fact that it provides some stability to the Braves budget and gives them a better idea of their financial position into the future. In the hurt column is the fact that it ties up millions of dollars long-term. That being said, I think it was a steal to tie up McCann through 2012 for $26.8 million.

For more commentary on this issue, join us at www.chop-n-change.com.

By Lew

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

Metro Dude-If the Mets take names, they better make sure some more pitchers are on the list. The ones they have now won’t last too long.

By Braves fan 202

March 22, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

thanks MGL

By KC

March 22, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

METROMAN:

Yo… that wasn’t the deal. You said the Mets were going to eliminate the Braves from being able to finish above .500. I asked you if you wanted to wager on that, and you said yes. Now you’re backing away from that bet??

By ellaguru

March 22, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

O’Brien gets a kickback, folks—two people have come in my store after my posts on his blog and DOB gets payola, baby! Thanks, eware and flange. And thank YOU, Dave.

Sure enjoyed reading those starting pitcher stats. And David, you have taken a long time formulating your response to our questions about Saltalamacchia…

By DonCoburleone

March 22, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

I think the Braves will lock up Chuck James after this year if he is productive and proves he can hold up to an entire major league season(35 starts, 200+ innings).

And I think that if Smoltz has another solid year then there is no way he pitches anywhere else in 2008. If he struggles, then thats the only way I could see him leaving.

By KC

March 22, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

MetroMan: Get used to scores like this between the Braves and Mets. =)

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

DOB does not really write this blog. Someone writes it for Shakespeare who writes it for Capote who writes it for Harper Lee who in turn writes it for DOB and lets DOB take credit for it because their egos are too large to tolerate a repeat of the “Hey Ernie, what paper you write for?” out of Yogi. They figure DOB is Hoss enough for a comment like that :-)

By Lew

March 22, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

Here’s an interesting fact about Redman. While with Pittsburgh, he received less than three runs support in 10 of his first 12 starts. Last year for KC, he received less than 3 runs support in 15 of 29 games. Make of it what you will. I think we got a steal.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-You’re probably right. I think that picture of DOB on the award site isd really Francis Bacon, too.

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 6:54 PM | Link to this

MetroMan just said “I know the METS are gonna kick some A* and take some names.*

Taking names, huh? Call me crazy but I think the only names they are capable of taking from the Braves are Brayan Pena, Tony Pena, Willy Aybar, Mike Gonzalez, Chad Paronto, Rafael Soriano, Villereal, Martin Prado, Edgar Renteria.

Andruw’s name is not Hispanic enough sounding for their front office, so he will thankfully be looked over when the Mets start taking names.

They will circle Diaz’ name but then get turned off when they hear how he pronounces it.

By DonCoburleone

March 22, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

OVER/UNDER

McCann - 27HR

Francoeur - 32HR

Andruw - 45HR

Chipper - 30HR

Thorman - 20HR

By ellaguru

March 22, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Oh, just figured out why DOB isn’t stepping up with our answers—Kansas/SIU’s just about to tip off. I’ll get kicked off the blog if I say “Go Salukis” so I won’t. Good luck to the ‘hawks, David.

By flange1

March 22, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

ellaguru, great store! The REM DVD is way cool! Very nice quality…

Lew, I will look for that DVD of Glenn Hughes

Now who makes the team? With AYbar still hurt, I think it will be Pena and Woodward even though I would choose Pena and Prado.

Thoughts?

By Lew

March 22, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

DonC- Maybe 42 for Andruw and 16 for Thorman, but I think you’re close. Wilson will add afew at first, though. Maybe another 12-15. Maybe more.

By woogidy

March 22, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Mets song should be “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day or “Tonight I Wanna Cry” by Keith Urban or “As Good as I Once Was” by Toby Keith or ” and lastly “What Hurts the Most” by Rascal Flatts

By DonCoburleone

March 22, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

It’s pretty crazy when I think we could legitimately see McCann, Francoeur, and Chipper (maybe) hitting over 30HR’s and AJ hitting over 45. Our offense is still going to be potent this year…

By woogidy

March 22, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Here is my Braves Roster

Smoltz, Hudson, James, Redman, Cormier, Wickman, Soriano, Gonzalez, Paronto, Yates, Villareal, McBride

Kelly Johnson, A Jones, C Jones, Thorman, Craig Wilson, Renteria, Langerhans, Francoeur, McCann, Bryan Pena, Woodward, Orr, Diaz.

I cut my losses with Pena. He’s not better than anyone on the roster.

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Back again. Ellaguru, I was wondering where I’d heard that name before. I used to live on Briarcliff up close to Shallowford back in the day (when I was busy “missing” how much better Nirvana was than AIC); used to skip school and smoke out with a buddy who worked at the TCBY that used to be there (may still be). Small world. I’ll definitely drop in next time I’m up that way.

Flange1, when I normally use the term “Rim Shot” I mean the drum term; you were correct today in assuming I was making a pun with “Rim Job.” I didn’t know about the third one; yikes. I guess the alcohol would kill the germs. :-)

Lew, do you think Capote had his bacon and ate it too? Oops…he was gay, wasn’t he. ENOUGH! So, whaddayou guys think about the Falcons trading Schaub?

MetroMan, you did imply the bet was for the Mets mathmatically eliminating the Braves from finishing .500. Did we suddenly realize we talked too much smack?

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 22, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

I think the McCann move was great and the right one. I honestly think that Francoeur is not far behind. The Braves have to follow the lead of the Mets and sign their young stars now to head off free agency and arbitration. Look at McCann. He will only make $800,000 next season. I guarantee he would have been awarded more than that in arbitration.

It is an interesting question about how this affects Andruw and Smoltz. Whatever happens I think this all but guarantees that Renteria and Wickman will not be Braves in 2008. Unless the Braves receive a “can’t refuse deal” I think they plan on keeping Escobar and inserting him at SS next season and then if Andrus is ready in 2009 placing Andrus at SS and moving Escobar to 3B or trading him.

I just don’t see how Andruw can be kept unless the payroll greatly increases. I do agree with those who say if it comes down to keeping Andruw or Smoltz that Smoltz is the better choice. But, it does bother me when Smoltz says (or was reported to say) that he will be seeking market value. If he has another good year, that would mean $15 to $18 mil a year. That is a lot of money to invest in a 40/41 year old pitcher with a long history of arm problems. And, I don’t see how anyone can really see it as worth it. If you do, then stop your griping about Hampton.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 22, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Also, I think if Aybar does begin the season on the DL that Orr would be the guy to take his place. Not T. Pena.

By No Chop Zone

March 22, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

I can’t beleive anyone is taking a spring training game in March so seriously. Look at the Mets starting lineup. We’ll wait til the regular season to start talking it up.

By Braves fan 202

March 22, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

April 2nd is so far away!

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 22, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this

I was just reading some Braves tidbits on MLB.com and it mentioned that T. Pena is gaining trade interest and so is Oscar Villareal. I had just said that the Braves would have Orr on the 25 man roster if Aybar has to start the season on the DL. But, perhaps, it would be wiser for them to let it be known that Pena will be on the roster. That way teams will know they just can’t pick him up through waivers.

Bowman mentioned the Dodgers as a possible suitor if Furcal is going to be out an extended time. The Dodgers were also looking for one more reliever. I wonder what they would offer for Pena and Villareal and perhaps another player? And, no, Wilson Betemit is not who I would want.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

March 22, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone, “Look at the Mets starting lineup”? Except for Beltran everybody in the lineup today is going to be in the opening day lineup. What’s your point, man? You should be saying, “Look at the Braves lineup.” It was the Braves “B-team” that whupppped some Mets booty!

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Oh, I love it. “…blah, blah, blah…smack talk…our starting rotation is WAY better than yours…blah, blah…smack talk…um, I can’t believe you guys take ST seriously; look at our lineup. We’ll just wait before we talk smack.” Too late, man. You just happen to be right: ST don’t mean squat, so when you already start backing up and and saying “Well, my car’s nicer than yours,” you’re displaying that understandably sickly feeling all you Mets fans get at the first sign of something going wrong. The “Here we go again” syndrome. Don’t feel bad, bro; we’ve got the Hawks…we understand.

Carroll, I forgot to get back to you yesterday. Me, you, and DonC make three on the Huddy suspicions…three is the beginning of a conspiracy. And while Schauby may turn out pretty good, he ain’t no Brett Farve. We only had him signed thru this year and if we waited we wouldn’t have gotten squat. He’d already said he was only going to sign a long-term deal. Couldn’t afford it under the cap and the picks can do us more good than him holding a clip board.

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

Robert (JIB), if Aybar begins the season on the DL, as it looks like he will, then why would the Braves put Orr on their roster over Pena, who’s out of options (unless they trade him, of course)? Pena’s the far superior defensive player, he hit .280 last year at Richmond and is hitting very well this spring, and against, he’s OUT OF OPTIONS. That means any team could claim him for a mere $50,000 if the Braves try to get him through waivers.

So why would the Braves go with Orr, who is not out of options and can be sent to Richmond without any problem?

For that matter, if they trade Pena and Aybar starts on the DL, one could easily make an argument that the Braves should go with Prado over Orr.

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Don (Ellaguru to you all), the good folks on the blog here are going to whip up all kinds of business for you and keep that fine store open for a long time.

Now don’t give away my Haggard/Nelson/Price shirt before I get home next weekend.

It’s halftime of the game. SIU’s got me worried. They are pains in the arse with their defense.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Grinch-I have no idea if Truman had his bacon and ate it, too. Maybe he had some with his eggs when he breakfasted at Tiffany’s. Perfect spot for a rim shot, don’t you think?

By Lew

March 22, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

EllaGuru-Do you mail cd’s out of state? Do you carry used cd’s? Do you have a catalog or a website? Enquiring misplaced New Englanders want to know. Would you trade for Maple Syrup? I can get the good stuff.

By No Chop Zone

March 22, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

I’m not going to argue what you can’t. I’ll just wait until the bell rings. It takes a season of 162 games to crown a playoff team……I’ll wait til then. Enjoy your March Victory.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this

Chop Zone-Re: your 7:45 post. Go check out the 11:51 post by Sounds Familiar. Dude, you Mets’ fans just can’t have your bacon and eat it, too.

By David O'Brien

March 22, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

OK, commercial break in KU-SIU game.

What does it mean for Salty? It means what we already knew is further confirmed: There was absolutely no way Salty was going to catch for the Braves as long as McCann stayed healthy and until he became too expensive to keep.

That still applies. If their payroll goes down or for whatever reason _ but I can’t really think of one _ they wanted to get rid of a productive McCann, the Braves could trade him within this very club-friendly contract. But again, I don’t see that happening for a while, if at all.

In the meantime, Salty will go to Double-A and try to have a good season, show that his monster year two years ago at Myrtle was the real Salty. Then next winter the Braves can entertain offers for him or consider moving him to first base if for some reason the Thorman thing doesn’t work out.

Many things can happen, but Salty wasn’t going to catch for the Braves for a long time, if ever, anyway. Not with McCann ahead of him. This just in: McCann is very good.

Great contract for the Braves. Great security for McCann. A true win-win deal.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 22, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Lew - on “To Kill a Mockingbird”. Lots of folks (both in the literary world, and in Monroeville, AL, where Harper Lee grew up and Capote spent summers with an aunt) speculate that it was Capote that wrote most, if not all of that novel. It has been pointed out that Ms. Lee never wrote ANYTHING else (not a novel, not short stories, not nothing), will not be interviewed about the book, etc. Capote’s writing talent (no matter how weird he was, and he was one weird dude) cannot be disputed. Unless she leaves a dying declaration, or has something in her will about the topic, it will be continue to be debated.Stranglehold

MUTTS music during pitching changes (or, during the starter’s warm ups, for that matter) - I vote for Highway to Hell When our closer comes in to shut the MUTTS down, I want the music to be Ted Nugent’s Stranglehold Them there be some alarming, energizing riffs.

Grinch I’m the one that called you out on the “rim shot” double entendre’. And given your affinity for alcohol from any source, anywhere, sure you won’t go with number 3? Good to see you back bro - hope things have calmed down to a dull roar on the home front. Let me know if I can help with that stuff you and I been discussing.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

ScalpEm- I truly was unaware of the whole controversy, but did find it perplexing that I never heard of anything else from Harper Lee. This seemed a bit strange considering how good and how well received Mockingbird was. I did, however, know they were friends and had just read a small article in a New Yorker magazine while sitting in a Dr.’s office, with Harper Lee disputing some biographical info about Capote related to the movies that came out a while back.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 22, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

JJS

I been thinking about canned ham and biscuits, and how not to waste anything. I’m a country boy, and we always found a use for everything. And, ham biscuits are not to be trifled with, no doubt.

Krystal’s little burgers are called “sliders” by folks from the north. This inspires me. Biscuits, with ham, coated with ham gel, would make perfect “sliders”. Served on the top part of the ham can, the larger lower part reserved for cooking ham gravy, and the can key reserved as garnish on the plate. Thoughts or comments?

Baseball… The Mutts have stellar offensive potential with Beltran, Wright, Reyes, et. al. I do admire Mini-Me (or, is his name Minaya? can’t keep it all straight) for locking them up long term. But, the Shea crowd will find that all the offense in the world will not overcome crappy pitching. Who among us can remember back to, um, 2006? And why did we not make the playoffs for the first time in 15 years? Crappy pitching, lack of depth in the starting rotation after injuries took their toll, and just plain bad luck. MetroMan and No Chop Zone - say hello to sub .500 in 2007.

The Braves gonna get some scalps this year boys!!

By Lew

March 22, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

DOB-The announcer’s right. If KU wins this game, they will have earned it.

By ssiscribe

March 22, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Been out of touch since, oh, 5:30 this morning and just got to the computer. Saw the McCann story online (on my phone) while riding a bus this afternoon.

Wow. Great move by the Braves. Very forward thinking, as one of the bloggers said earlier. A great young kid who is, along with Francoeur, the heart and soul of this thing. A Georgia kid, humble, hard working, perfect person to help represent your franchise and connect to your fan base.

And that’s all outside the lines stuff. On the field, dude can flat out rake. Calls a great game. Has a penchance for coming through in the clutch. Tough. Passionate. Just a baby, really, with a world of upside.

Sure, the cynics say he’s one home-plate crash away from the deal being a gamble blown up in management’s face. But you know what? If you’re gonna lock up a young kid, why not lock up one of the top two or three catchers in all of baseball? Remember, Braves gave Chipper that deal in spring of 96, the four-year deal that culminated with the MVP season in 1999. It’s not a stretch to think McCann wins an MVP before this contract is up.

Great, great, great move by the Braves. Saved themselves some cash in the long run, too, and they won’t pay Mac too, too much the next couple of years, when Hudson’s deal really shoots up there.

(Ah, Kansas is about to give me a freaking ulcer watching this game. This is my FREAKIN national champion. WHY WHY WHY did I do this to myself and pick them. They BURN me every stinkin year. And now SIU is on the line … maybe I’ll see if the Thrashers are still getting drilled. Sorry to rant. OK, KU leads by one. Rock chalk, Jayhawk. My bracket depends on it.)

I’m outta here. Everybody enjoy your evening. And Jimmy, should I ever see baby seal at Turner Field, that would be a tell-tale sign that you’re in the house. I’ll be on my toes looking out for the four of you.

Selah. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Micah

March 22, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

Into the Mystic is potentially the BEST frickin song ever written. Of course, it does show up way too many times at a wedding. Maybe I say this because it was played at my wedding and I want it to myself? Nonetheless, a superior tune!

Why doesn’t Van play this song in concert? (I should say Van’s band since all Van does these days is mumble in his patented stage frightening way) I wonder if the Van Morrison tribute band that played the St. Patty’s Day fess here in Smyrna plays it? Honestly, it might be better to see a tribute band than the man himself.

great reporting……

Go Braves!

By MEB

March 22, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Brian McCann and we are looking forward to him being a Brave for a long time!

Sad news for Tony La Russa but at least he was found just asleep in his SUV. This may be the wake up call he needs in his life.

DOB… so what exactly is a SALUKI? I’m hoping the Jayhawks can tame these mutts and keep my bracket intact. Wow what a game!!!

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em, it would depend on what she looked like. Or how recently showered. Man, who am I trying to kid? Depends on what kind of alcohol we’re talkin’ about. :-) Thanks for the kind words; things are gradually starting to get under control. I like your ham idea, all except for the key part. Too valuable to just give away on a plate, no? What if the key on the next ham breaks before you can open it? Oh, the hammanity!

No wonder LaRussa wears shades all the time; the upper third of his face looks like it was painted by Dali. Man, I bet he caught it hard growing up. He looks like he’s got one eye on a snake and the other lookin’ for a stick to beat it with.

By Steve-O

March 22, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

How frustratingly stupid is the Mets theme song? “Meet the Mets, Greet the Mets…….”

Metropolitan Man, FYI:

Braves 7 Mets 1

Please don’t start dissapearing throughout the season everytime we beat you or pull further out in front of your Mets, please stick around and take the poundings that will be in constant session.

By Braveheart

March 22, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Mets fans are something else. They’re like the guy who gets laid once every twenty years but then wants to go around boasting about it as if they invented sex to the guys who get laid year in and year out. We know. We know. We’ve been enjoying that thrill, taste, and action for years. In fact, we got it so much, we frankly got a little sick of it and took it for granted. To be honest, Madame East got tired of us and took us for granted as well because we were taking her for granted and she started looking around, thinking maybe she could do better.

You took our best girl while we were going through a divorce. Real honorable of you. You keep trying to throw that in our face. But what you do not realize is that Madame East is now tired of you and is begging for us to come back and make her proud once again. Our hearts have grown fonder for each other since we broke up. She is so humiliated after agreeing to go to the NLCS Game 7 ball with you and you had the nerve to pick her up in some hoopety called Oliver Perez. She will never forgive you for that. She says the whole team all she could tell herself over and over again was “oliver perez?!?!?! oh, the humanity!”

We are going to propose to her on April 2. We will get remarried on August 31 when you guys are in town so as to avoid getting married on a football Saturday in the South. You’re more than welcome to attend. We would ask you to be the best man but Madame East feels like you and Philly would look better back in that old bridesmaid gown she picked out for you and Phil back in 1991.

By KC

March 22, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

This was posted at atlantabraves.com yesterday. Somehow I missed it until today. Good news…

VIERA, Fla. — There was no reason to ask Mike Hampton how he felt after completing his bullpen session at Disney’s Wide World of Sports complex on Wednesday afternoon.

The trademark cocky smirk he displayed as he jogged back toward to dugout spoke volumes about the unexpected excitement he and the Braves have gained over the past five days.

When Hampton strained his left oblique muscle during batting practice on March 7, there was reason to believe he wouldn’t even pick up a baseball for another month. But here he was exactly two weeks later, completing a 10-minute, 50-pitch bullpen session that provided no discomfort to his oblique or surgically-repaired left elbow.

“It felt pretty darn good,” Hampton said. “I threw at about 90 percent and I didn’t have any strains, pulls or nothing.”

After watching Hampton’s full side session, Braves pitching coach Roger McDowell traveled to Viera for Wednesday night’s game against the Nationals. When he arrived he let Braves manager Bobby Cox know that the southpaw showed no signs that he’s experiencing any limitations or rust.

“He was very impressive,” McDowell said. “It was like he hadn’t skipped a beat.”

It’s still too early to accurately project when Hampton might be able to join the Atlanta rotation. He’ll throw another bullpen session on Saturday, and if all goes well, he could begin his rehab assignment during the first week of April.

Because he still hasn’t pitched in a game since his left elbow was repaired with Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery 18 months ago, Hampton will still likely need to make at least five Minor League rehab starts. But with that being the case, there’s still a chance he could rejoin the Atlanta rotation during the first week of May.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 22, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Watching the last few seconds of KU - SIU game. Does anybody feel like me about basketball? That it absolutely cannot be officiated? They should call it MugBall or ThugBall. These guys spend the entire game beating the crap out of each other jockeying for position in the lane, going for rebounds, hand checks, etc. Might as well put a cage around the court (like in WWF Wrestling) and let them slug it out, the way games are called these days.

And, does anyone dislike the way Bill Rafferty growls his color commentary as much as me?

KU wins - breathe easy now, DOB, and lets talk more baseball.

By KC

March 22, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

If Hampton is able to make an early May return to the rotation, he may yet be able to help this team in the pennant race this year. It would also make it that much more likely that he’d be sharp when October rolls around.

By Micah

March 22, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

I’m wondering if there is any value in having Can around longer so that Smoltz is happy. I would figure that, at his age, it would not be nice to serve a new backstop. That goes along with the idea that Smoltz would never want to leave and be with another team as well. Not that he would ever do that but I seem to remember trade talk last year. I apologize, in advance, for any wrong ideas. My defense is that I just moved to the area. Basically, I’m 100% Braves amateur!

So, let Smoltz have a little more stress freedom to go after Neikro and become the all-time strikeout leader and then some. Secure the HOF’er in hot ‘lanta, and future PR monster….

Go Braves!

By Steve-O

March 22, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, we are officially friends, that was hesterical!!! …..”We know. We know.” LOL!!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

choppinmama, jimmy smith is happy to be in such company. thank you! and, perhaps choppinmama could help this journalist with a question … if a major league ballplayer had inflamation of the bursa along the withers would it feel like an oblique strain?

now, let’s say a certain sportswriter knows that low withers do not provide a ridge to help keep a saddle in place - will that sportswriter reveal that a certain player suffers from low withers? will the withers-revealing piece be a wurlitzer winning withers writing?

now, best of cox. has luckovich called or not? how is luckovich taking this?

and carroll rogers, guy curtright never went so long without a post. lengthy posts with lots of inside baseball information. but very little toe journalism, very little.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s back. Hampton’s getting better. The Mets lost another reliever. Life is good. Or would be if I hadn’t strained my oblique coughing.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 22, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

*JJS:

Whither thou wonderest whether Hoss’s withers are withered?*

By Micah

March 22, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

Biggest Choke: Acie Law IV

C’mon! It was a layup!

Worst Game Outcome (caused by refs): Texas AM vs. Memphis

That’s why judgment calls in the last five seconds shouldn’t be made!

Go Braves!

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

baby seal dresses as a small fan for all games. seal tolerance at turner field is very low. scribe may be able to tell baby seal is a seal, may not. best to look for little jimmy smith wearing a braves cap. now, jimmy smith is reminded of the unfortunate episode with baby seal and the old journalist last year. but that is a story for another night.

scalp’em, ham gel is nasty stuff. in fact, the origin of ham gel might surprise some here on the blog. if the oblique and the toes don’t straighten out soon for hoss the braves may turn their investment into so much ham gel. seriously, ham gel is not what many think. beware ham gel much like toes - not to be trifled with.

and grinch is wise to keep the ham-can key in reserve. a valuable commodity.

and ms. cox chambers … blogging with us again? favorite canned ham?

By Carolina Lady

March 22, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, I have to send baby seal back before opening day???

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

perhaps the withers are indeed withered but but what of a withered biscuit? what of a biscuit that has lost its withers? and why are some horses named after biscuits? and would the ham key be useful on a keyring? never can say when you might encounter a canned ham.

By No Chop Zone

March 22, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

C’mon Lew….I can only speak or defend my own post’s. You can take any post (11:51) and base a whole blog on it. It’s a spring training game for Gods sake. Get yourselves together. After a game in late June you won’t remember anything about todays game.

By AdirondackDave

March 22, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

DOB - Do you know if the Braves are getting insurance on McCann’s contract and, if so, for its full length? This is a fine move by the Braves and great security for McCann. I would think this is the most popular move from the fans perspective in a long, long time. Last time I was anywhere near this excited was when we signed Andres Galarraga although Hudson was also close. I think Smoltz is likely to re-up but I’m still plenty worried about Andruw. Seems to me Andruw reduces the entire pitching staff’s ERA by half a run, maybe more.

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 22, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

JJS - rub the withered wither with ham gel - it may be nasty stuff, but it must have marvelous medicinal qualities. Can anybody find anything wrong with ham and it’s byproducts?

Better to name a horse after a biscuit than a baseball team (e.g., the Montgomery Biscuits). And, get this. They don’t even sell biscuits at the Biscuits games!!! Oh, the humanity!!!

By Lew

March 22, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Chop Zone-Just pointing out what we loyal Braves’ fans have to deal with listening to the Mets’ faithful on our blog. I know what time of year it is. The Braves will still spell doom for the Mets this season. Everyone knows it but some of the Mets fans.

By MEB

March 22, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Texas A&M was robbed! Scalp’em and Micah… a foul called with 3 seconds left under the basket with the big guys fighting for a rebound, for a chance to go to the Elite 8 and the 5 foot nothing official decides the game. At least baseball is more civilized and can be officiated somewhat more fairly. Dang… I had the Aggies in the Final Four.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

misnomer. ham gel is not “ham” gel. nasty stuff. better to lubricate a garage door than on a biscuit.

not until the phillies come to town, carolina lady. work baby seal hard until then but remember to fish twice a day. and let baby seal have a look at the john deere. very good with small engine repair.

now, jimmy smith has a speaking engagement tomorrow and if it works out well for jimmy smith this journalist may be away from the blog for a time. journalist must go now to work on speech.

By No Chop Zone

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

So the braves are bringing doom to the Mets…..Oh how scarey. Us Mets fans are so afraid. What would we do without you brave fans to warn us of the impending doom. the braves are so mighty and powerful….we are so in awe.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 22, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

yes, third person.

By Josh

March 22, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

That would be SCARY, not scarey. Sort of like Queens. Did they ever get the cockroach problem fixed in that wonderful old fixture you call a ballpark? The sound of those commercial jets every few minutes gives such a cozy feel. And do they still run the bums out of the turnstile gates 2 hours before gametime so all the pee can be cleaned? Hey, 20 years and it’ll be time for another division title-never too soon to spruce up the old ballyard…

By jed

March 22, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

on capote: true, harper lee never published another book, although she did continue writing after ‘mockingbird.’ that, however, doesnt mean capote wrote ‘mockingbird.’ as a matter of fact, capote dismissed the novel when it was published, saying “what’s the big deal?”

By No Chop Zone

March 22, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

Hey josh we paid your father to fumigate the roaches but he kept spending the money at the crack houses and when we called you mother find him she couldn’t tell us anything because she was busy blowing the bums just before game time. Why don’t you get your sister off the streets to help us clean up the the pee at the stadium and make it presentable to the public……your truly “Us Mets Fans”

By Lew

March 22, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-If you Mets’ fans had any sense of reality, you would be.

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Aaaauuuggghhh! Do not google canned ham gel origin! DOB, tell me you’ve seen Hoss since you’ve received your ham…otherwise, I’d wash it good before consuming it. It might be, uh, sticky. Speakin’ of ol’ Hoss, I saw a mighty fine young lady at Gold’s today wearing a Chipper jersey and short shorts. I wonder if she ever worked at Hooters? Hmmm. Definitely don’t want to try a rim shot with someone who’s been hangin’ out on the stairmaster for an hour. Yarg.

By Rosalynn

March 22, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Ham gel got us through mana a dah when mah Jimma and I weah fihst married. Some dahs we had nothing moah to eat than a little ham gel spread on a cracka. Then one dah Miz Lillian was ovah at the apahtment and she saw Jimma put his finga in the ham gel and get reada to lick his finga and Miz Lillian shouted loud enough for the dead to heah. Miz Lillian shouted, “No, you darn fool. That ham gel is cartilage from a dead hoss.” Jimma thought Miz Lillian was just funnin and Jimma said back, “No, Mama, this gel is a daira product.” Miz Lillian just slapped Jimma silla and poured out that ham gel in the sink. Sure enough, I talked with the doctah and the doctah said ham gel is hoss cartilage and is also used to make film foah camerahs. Since that dah I have eaten manah a canned ham but I have shunned canned ham gel. While ham gel is edible it is best used as a lubricant or pest solution. Some old ballplayahs have lost some cartilage ovah the yeahs. I wondah if ham gel would help ‘em out? Let’s talk some baseball befoah I go. Could that boah Matt Schaub plah baseball? Heah he was in Texas doing a press conference about winning football games and leading people and Mike Vick was heah in Atlanta talking about a watah bottle and some big earrings. Jimma wants one of those bottles for his trips to Cuba. He will need one long enough for some cigahs.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

Josh-But they do have that Apple that rises like the Great Pumpkin. Maybe that’s what attracts the roaches.

By No Chop Zone

March 22, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

So I guess the 2006 season wasn’t reality. Not for Brave fans anyway….

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Jed-Could very well be the case. I was just mentioning the strangeness of no other best seller as something I’ve always wondered about. Not necessarily that she hadn’t written it, but why the success wasn’t followed up. It was a good book and the movie was great.

By braveheart

March 22, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

where’s bob the journalist been? missing the big guy.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-Yes, it was as real as the 14 Braves winners that preceded it and the many more Braves division winners that will follow it.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-Let’s see now. 69, 73, 86, 06. Doesn’t that about sum up the Mets’ winning ways?

By jed

March 22, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

here’s an innarestin’ question for debate: is the practice of blocking the plate an antiquated notion? i’ve watched baseball forever and only began to think about this recently, but i gotta say—for the most part— i think that it is.

let’s say it’s a 3-1 game in may. ryan howard is off from 2nd base on a single up the middle. he rounds 3rd and is barreling full-speed toward home plate. baseball ‘rules’ dictate that mccann is to block the plate to stop that run from scoring—leaving himself completely vulnerable in the process. but does this make sense? you gamble a season-ending injury to your catcher for the grand reward of saving one run? in a game in may? ridiculous, but this is what catchers are made to do.

believe me, it’s a close game in august in a tight playoff race before i’m having mccann block the plate. i know i’m spouting baseball heresy here, but i think it makes far more sense for the catcher to field the ball and try and tag the runner without leaving his body open to the whims of fate. (or ryan howard, or darrin erstad, for that matter.) you get the out? good. you dont? big deal—go score another. you’ve still got your catcher in the lineup for the next month, instead of on the DL.

any thoughts? (and if you reply, logical arguments only please. typing doesnt make you a tough guy.)

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Wow, someone’s a bit testy.

Miss Rosalynn, I do believe Schauby’s more worth his new contract than Vick is worth his current one, but them’s the breaks. Mr. Blank is tying his wagon to the hoss with cornrows. Might as well use the extra draft picks to get some smoother wheels for it.

By jed

March 22, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

hey lew—you know, they say we all have one great book in us… i think harper lee embodies that notion. yeah…one of my favorites, still.

By mike

March 22, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

“YOUR ATTENTION PLEASE, WOULD CARLOS BELTRAN PLEASE TAKE THE BAT OFF OF HIS SHOULDERS, THE SEASON IS OVER”

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-Even the Mets’ staff is better than that of the Nationals. Their projected starting rotation this season went 2-13 last year. Their entire rotation. Even the Mets’s starters are better than that. Hell even Sosa is better than that. I still wouldn’t pin any great hopes on him, though.

By Lew

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

Mike-Come on, Dude. He’s moved the bat. He’s even changed his shorts.

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

March 22, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

If somebody already posted this, I appologize.

But it appears as though Curt Shilling wants to be DOB. LOL! He’s started a blog, that he says he will go on daily and talk with the fans. Even on the days he pitches, he said he’ll go on and give the fans more details about his performance and thought process, than the papers would cover. How “cool” (ahem!) would that have been, had John Rocker had a blog? YIKES!

Actually it’s pretty cool, if you ask me. He’s kinda hanging himself out there with the peeps.

DOB, do you know off hand, if any of the Braves players, frequent your blog? If Tim Hudson is one of them, let me know, I’ll stop being so negative. :-)

Anyhow, here is the link to the si.com story.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/alex_belth/03/22/schilling.qa/index.html

By Scalp 'em Braves

March 22, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone

You and Metro(Sexual)Man both deserve props for coming in here and defending your honor amongst the angry Bravos Nation. Not easy being 2 against a hundred. Kind of like the Spartans against the Romans, except that what you defend (MuttLand) is not nearly as worthy or noble as Sparta. However, your last two posts offer nothing of substance, and indicate you have acquired lamitis (e.g. lame excuses/responses to some pretty pointed barbs from the Braves fans). Let’s take a look at what happened last year, and why your beloved Mutts will fall flat on their faces this year.

2006 Offensive Stats

(Mutts/Braves) Runs - 834 / 849; Hits - 1469 /1510; HR - 200 / 222; SB - 146 / 52; OBP - .334 / .337; BA - .264 / .270;

All in all, the stats were essentially equal, with the edge to you in HR & SB. The Braves were the second best offensive team in the NL last year (behind the Bums).

Now, let’s take a look at pitching stats (MuttsBraves)

ERA - 4.14 /4.60; OBA - .323 / .343; BB - 527 / 572; SO(K) - 1161 / 1049; CG - 12 / 6; SVS - 43 /38; This list doesn’t include blown saves and/or the implosions of our starting and relief pitching last year - it was awful.

As can be seen from above, your team’s superior record (and it was far superior to ours, for the first time in 15 years) was due to pitching, not offense.

The reason your team will stink up Flushing Meadows, and the NL East, this year is that your pitching will not hold up for the year. You have great offensive weapons in Reyes, Wright and Beltran - no doubt. I think Reyes is the most exciting player in the league, and I know when he gets on first, he is going to be standing on second shortly thereafter, and likely score. But outside of him, and Wright/Beltran going yard, you don’t have much else. Certainly not enough to overcome the woeful pitching you will have this year (can’t wait for your folks to go nuts/postal over Sosa).

The Braves will have, probably, less offense this year, due to the loss of LaRoche and Giles. But, we still have a formidable lineup who can put some numbers up, and more importantly, our pitching has been completely strengthened, and shored up - from starters (i.e., depth, in the case of injury), and have added what is arguably, and likely, the best bullpen in the MAJORS, not to mention the NL, and more importantly, the NL east.

So, if you want to come back, that is fine. But don’t just say “Oooh - we’re scared”, etc. That is what the kid said before the bully smiled at him and kicked his keester in the school hall. Have some substance to your responses, and you might get some respect here. No love, but perhaps some respect.

We’re a lot more worried about the Phils this year, than you. The NL East will be a two team contest, between us and the Phils, with the loser very likely to go in the playoffs as the wildcard. The Mutts will be lucky to finish 3rd.

By The Grinch

March 22, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Dang! I practiced my typing so hard thinking it would get me to the Octagon…really, though; your argument makes sense. Doubt things will change, though.

Doubt we’ll hear from Dave again tonight; he’s likely having some well earned beers in light of his award and the KU victory. Let the cannikins clink…

‘night.

By Josh

March 22, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Big shock that a New Yawker would start spouting of “Yo momma, yo sister” insults. You’d think all the tax money they pay would buy them some public education…

By Metropoitan Man

March 22, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Now KC there are 15 other teams in the national league and you want me to make a bet where you have a 99% chance of winning….no thanks. That is why after realizing I agreed to a fools bet, it was revised to be fair to all parties. Now if you dont like the revised bet of the head to head matchup, then come up with something else. Now you guys are talking hella smack tonight, glad I checked back. All I know is the METS and METS fans will get the last laugh. I just purchased my ticket for the series so get ready for a rabid fanatic giving the braves hell all the way to a METS victory. No Chop Zone, glad to have you on the team, we will not run. We will stay until DOB’s blog makes it to radio.

By choppinmama

March 22, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

journalistjj: I’ll consult my son, the athletic trainer and get back to you about your bursa/withers/oblique strain query. I have no knowledge of withers, fetlocks, hooves and the like.

Rosalynn (I’ll remember it’s two n’s): Do you have an agent? I propose we gather up all of your posting from the past year or two into a commemorative collection - “Rosalynn’s Amusing Musings”. I just know it will be an instant best seller. Give it some thought. Jimmah is travelling a rough road with his latest publication. Your collection will zoom directly to Oprah. Think about it, deah.

By braveheart

March 22, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

nah, the NYC public school system is so horrendous, normal NYC citizens prefer to take the risk of having their children molested by a priest in order to get a good education at a Catholic school. In fact, that is how we ended up with Mike Hampton. If you remember, when he was asked why he was leaving the Mets for the Rockies, he said the biggest reason he was leaving was because he thought the school systems in Denver were better than the school systems in NYC

By KC

March 22, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

MetroMan: What are you talking about… you already made the bet. It appears now that you’re backing down from it, but you already made it.

You said the Mets would mathematically eliminate the Braves from being able to finish over .500. I asked you if you wanted to wager on that, and you said yes.

You’re the one that dreamt up that scenario. Not I.

“Revised bet” is another way of saying you backed out of it. It was revised by you after the fact. Again, you were the one talking a big game… I just called you on it. =)

By braveheart

March 22, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

n8, i was checking out his blog yesterday. he doesn’t disappoint. he is his usual talkative self on there, which is great. don’t understand why more athletes are not taking advantage of this - especially, guys who are shy and quiet or not trusting of the media - it would seem an ideal way for them to express themselves or correct directly what they see reported incorrectly in the media.

By KC

March 22, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

I wish MLB-TV still offered single game purchases. I have no need for MLB-TV in general, but I’d love to see Hudson’s start on Saturday. Oh well. Being responsive to the fans wishes is not always MLB’s strong suit.

By mr baseball

March 22, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

Assessing how the NL East stacks up, I’m guessing that the most plausible reason for Braves’ fans to be optimistic is how shaky the other 3 alleged contenders look on paper. It’s hard to fathom after last year, but the clear advantage the Braves have over the other 3 is the bullpen.

Without anything resembling a major league group of relievers, the Marlins have no shot, especially with the health status of a few of their young starters. And as solid as they appear at 7 positions, how can a team go into the season with an absolute blank in center field?

If Gordon can hold up for an entire season and Madson becomes the second coming of Linebrink, the Phillies could hang close to the lead most of the season, but I’d hate to have to pin my offensive hopes squarely on Burrell. If he doesn’t have a huge season, Howard may challenge Bonds’ intentional walk record.

Saving the worst for last, the Mets are this season’s leading contenders for the Norman Greenbaum one-hit wonder award. Other than Reyes and Wright, the other six starters average 35 years of age, and Beltran is the only one of the six likely to match his offensive numbers from ‘06. Their rotation might actually qualify as being mediocre, but with a bullpen that will not be anywhere near as effective as last year, and an offense that is not going to produce at ‘06 levels, mediocre ain’t gonna cut it. .500 might be as good as it gets for the Mutts.

A look at the rosters around the NL makes it hard to believe that ANY team in the league is going to win much more than 90 games. If there’s a sure thing playoff qualifier in the league, exactly who is it?

The Braves have offensive questions at 1B & LF, two positions where you’re supposed to get a lot of your production. McCann helps compensate, but they still need something more than what they’re going to get from the LF platoon. 1B looks OK if you squint hard enough, but then you gaze across the corner of the infield and see a huge void if Chipper breaks down again. KJ may be adequate at the plate, but the right side of the infield is going to suffer defensively, not the best note for a non-strikeout group of starters (Smoltz the exception).

Like every other potential contender in the league, the Braves have a bunch of questions, but theirs may not be as hard to answer as the competition. Assuming the bullpen & offense produce at or at least near the levels expected, the team should get back in the playoffs, especially if Hudson can at least approach his pre-06 form.

If that happens, are we all prepared for another inevitable post-season flop, or did last year’s streak-breaker flush the annual pathetic playoff performance along with it?

Kudos on the Van Morrison selection. As far as live albums go, they don’t get much better than It’s Too Late To Stop Now. Saw him on a recent repeat of Austin City Limits the other night and he did an interesting version of St. James Infirmary. Don’t think I’ve heard that since the cast of SNL did it about 3 decades ago. Seeing as how Graham Parker has some new music on the way, how about some lyrics from just about anything from Squeezing Out Sparks.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Now y’all- Let the Mets faithful have their dreams of 06. After all, it should be another 10-20 years before they win the division again. Still want a poster of that look on Beltran’s face after his knees buckled on the Wainright curve, though.

By Metropoitan Man

March 22, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

KC, can you honestly feel good about that bet??? If so I will honor it only if you will let me come up with a second bet???? That way it if you when the ‘fools bet” I can at least sleep at night knowing I have a come around.

By Lew

March 22, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

They keep animals in cages and specimens in jars.

By KC

March 23, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball:

just a couple things quickly before I hit the hey…

First, it doesn’t matter what Gordon or the Phillies bullpen does if Cole Hamels doesn’t get right. Reports are that the Phillies organization is deeply concerned as Hamels has inexplicably lost about 5mph off his fastball from last year. They don’t know why.

Phili needs big season from both Garcia and Hamels to have a shot. Scary stuff if you’re a Phils fan.

As for the Braves… I think the only thing anyone needs to know about Atlanta’s offense is this:

There is only one noteworthy difference between this year’s offense and last year’s NL-best Braves lineup. That difference of course is that LaRoche is out, Thorman (or a Thorman/Wilson platoon) is in. That’s going to cost us about 7-10 homers and 10-20 RBI at that position. I’m not saying that isn’t a loss… but that is NOT enough to relegate this offense to the middle of the pack.

This isn’t a perfect lineup (nor was last year’s). There are questions. Never the less, this team is going to score plenty of runs, and is likely to remain in the top 3 or 4 in the NL in every major offensive category. Good enough for me.

As you’ve accurately stated, the Braves’ pen looks better than the (slightly diminished) Mets pen, and is light-years beyond the Marlins or Phillies bullpens.

That leaves the real key… starting pitching. Tim Hudson has to come through this season. I’m not saying he has to return to Oakland-Cy Young form… but he has to pitch well. If he does that, and Chuck James simply picks up where he left off, Atlanta’s rotation could be as strong 1-3 as any team in the league. Stronger, perhaps.

Anyway, off to beddy-bye. G’night ya’ll.

By DAP

March 23, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

Great showing by smoltz and the braves tonight. i hope we can have alot of games like that against the mets this season.

DOB, congrats on the award, and nice picture! man, i was waaaay of in what i pictured you as. i thought youd be alot older(cause youre so wise) with white hair in the sides, but no hair on the top, a little chunky, and a mustache. like i said, waaaaay off.

i just relaized i just descibed a proffessor at my school named O’Brien. I guess that where i got that.

hey everyone! i just got my opening day tickets! if anyone sees me at the game, make sure you say hi! youll know its me cause ill be wearing a braves shirt! :-)

By David O'Brien

March 23, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

Adirondack, usually teams can insure a contract only as far as three years, the reason they are all so reluctant now to go longer.

After three years they can usually renew the policy, provided the guys not a medical disaster…

That KU win was so tense I couldn’t even enjoy it till it was over. Man, SIU is brutal to play against, or to watch your team play against. Just survive and advance, as Jimmy V said….

Listened to the Paul Weller double-live album today, the one that came out late last year. Essential for Jam/Weller fans.

Also listened to a seven-song live Pearl Jam CD from an in-store appearance they did at Easy Street Records in West Seattle, to support the Coalition of Independent Record stores.

Absolutely rocking, relentlessly driving sound, with a killer version of “Porch” and a few covers never available on CD. They do X’s “New World” with John Doe sitting in with the band, and the Dead Kennedys’ “Bleed for Me.”

Mr. baseball mentioned Van’s “Too Late To Stop Now,” one of the fine live albums ever.

My Van Morrison list is slightly different. I’ve got every CD he ever recorded, including the Bang label stuff. All of it. And here’s my…

* Van the Man’s Elite Eight *

1. Astral Weeks (no question, the absolute best, and one of the top 10 albums of all time)

2. Poetic Champions Compose

3. Into the Music

4. Moondance

5. Too Late to Stop Now

6. No Guru, No Method, No Teacher

7. Veedon Fleece

8. A Night In San Francisco (great live album from 1994, almost as good as the earlier live album)

By Coach

March 23, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Well , we knew Bobby would go with a five man bench. It looked like Brayan Pena , Matt Diaz , Craig Wilson , Willy Aybar and Chris Woodward. Aybar appears to be headed for the DL. Is it Tony Pena , Martin Prado or Yunel Escobar who will temporarily take his spot ? I want Escobar , but that won’t happen yet. He isn’t on the 40 man and the Braves would have to lose(waivers)/trade Tony Pena. Prado is primarily a second baseman with a little experience at third and he doesn’t play SS. It’s a nice problem to have. Then again , Redman isn’t on the 40 man either but I think the Braves will probably release Jonathan Johnson in order to open a roster spot for another pitcher. Braves/ESPN later on today !

By DAP

March 23, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

over/under:

McCann - 27HR

over. im guessing right at 30 for him.

Francoeur - 32HR

over. i think frenchy is getting at least 35, it very doable for him.

Andruw - 45HR

under, but not by much. he will stay in the low 40s. we’ll say 42.

Chipper - 30HR

under. health is still in issue, but i think he will still play AT LEAST as many games as last season, and put up great numbers. doing it. ill predict 26 again.

Thorman - 20HR

under. i think thor will get 18, but he will not play everyday.

by my prediction, thats 151 homers this season, and thats only by 5 guys!

and stop saying francour is not a productive hitter. he definetly has a problem with OBP% but do his rbis mean NOTHING? there are TONS of players that would love to have francours stats, just the way they were last season, and plenty of teams that would have loved to have him. im not saying he does not need to improve, because he definetly does, but saying hes not productive doesnt make any sense. i think he will improve alot, and he and mccann will be competing with each other for mvp awards.

By DonCoburleone

March 23, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

“by my prediction, thats 151 homers this season, and thats only by 5 guys!”

That’s what I’m saying! Throw in whatever Renteria, KJ, Wilson, and Diaz/Langerhans contribute. Thats over 200HR’s, NIIICE!

By DonCoburleone

March 23, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

blunts blunts blunts blunts blunts

By jed

March 23, 2007 4:54 AM | Link to this

DOB—good to see your van list. i like it, but how in the hades does Poetic Champions Compose end up at #2? well, i can’t sleep, so i’ll make my own list. Also, how come nobody’s interested in debating the question of whether blocking the plate is an antiquated notion (my 11:13 pm post):

1. Astral Weeks
2. Live at the Grand Opera House/Belfast
3. Into The Music
4. Too Late to stop now
5. Veedon Fleece
6. No Guru
7. Moondance
8. Avalon Sunset

By No Chop Zone

March 23, 2007 6:54 AM | Link to this

What all you brave fans are over looking is the following: It’s a long season. I predict the Mets won’t come out as strong as they did last year. The will still be in contention for the division lead though. They’ll get healthier and stronger as the season progresses. Sanchez will back by end of April, Mota by end of May and Pedro by the All Star break. Lets also keep in mind the potential for a big trade before the trading deadline. I still beleive Brave fans are underestimating the talent on the Mets. Most of what I’m reading is a lot of If this and If that for the Braves and a lot of won’ts for the Mets. If the Braves or Phillies want to win the division they better get a big lead early on the Mets because the will get healthier/stronger as the season progresses. The predictions by Lew and others for them to be barely a .500 team is ridiculous. They didn’t fall back that far during the offseason. That’s my take on the season. Only time will tell……

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 7:13 AM | Link to this

maybe harper lee was just smarter than anyone. make your one enormous hit, live off the profits for the rest of your life, and then move on to other things. it’s better off leaving them wanting more. kind of the barry sanders approach. where she was smart and set herself free was that she essentially got to kill herself without really killing herself. wish we could say the same for Cobain, Hendrix, Morrison, Joplin, Tupac, Biggie, et al.

By David O'Brien

March 23, 2007 8:01 AM | Link to this

Jed, I knew putting that Van selection (“Poetic Champions Compose”) so high on my list might raise an eyebrow or two from Van purists. But I just love that album, maybe because of the particular importance that some of the songs took on for me when I listened to them a lot during certain periods.

Anyway, I could easily have swapped positions with No Guru or any of the others on my list. Other than No. 1, to me his other best works are so tremendous, each can be a favorite depending on mood of the listener.

Van really has some distinctly different styles in his evolution as an artist. And I’ll listen to one or two of the albums for a while, then not for a long time, then come back to them. They slay me when I haven’t heard one in a while and I put it on and really listen to the songs.

But for Poetic Champions Compose, the first few songs are just so perfect. I mean, in a melancholy mood, or in the morning, just try listening again to that intro to the album, and then to “Queen of the Slipstream,” and especially “I Forgot That Love Existed,” with the line:

“If my heart could do my thinking / And my head begin to feel…”

Genius. Pure genius.

Oh, and blocking the plate is NOT an antiquated notion. It’s baseball, man. Absolutely can’t change that. It’s a part of the game. Don’t mess with our game.

By The Grinch

March 23, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

Looks like things got kind of spicy in here right as I left. Scalp ‘em, you’re correct in that about the only thing the Muts fans have in common with the Spartans is being outnumbered. I’m gonna go see “300” Sunday; if it’s anywhere near as good as the Frank Miller comic it’ll be tight. Of course, anytime something that takes 20 minutes to read gets stretched into a 2 hour movie, it’s easy to enter with a degree of skepticism. Man, this going to bed early and waking up early is for the birds (actually, I think that IS what most birds do). Blah!

Braveheart, you think Harper Lee would’ve made a good tailback?

OK, my top tem Van Morrison alblums:

1) I don’t have any Van Morrison alblums. Not that I have an opinion on him one way or the other; the only thing I remember about him was being beaten half to death with “Brown-eyed Girl” growing up. I know a lot of people love him, but I don’t even know anything else by him (I’m sure I’ve heard some things, but I didn’t know who it was). I just tried this stuff called “Coffee;” it’s not that bad. I wonder what kind of food goes with it?

By The Grinch

March 23, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this

Exactly, DOB; just like why should the Navy look which way it’s going when rowing a boat? Tradition speaks otherwise and it isn’t to be questioned. OK, someone suggest a Van Morrison starter kit; guess I finally need to see what this dude’s about. And since I’m up anyway, might as well get some work done. Later.

By mike

March 23, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

why would anyone need to apologize to a reporter or writer? you guys are more annoying then american idol.

I wish you would get smacked around more-

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

Harper Lee probably would have been a great tailback or maybe a great quarterback. Who knows? Sounds like she might have been like DJ Shockley was at UGA. An understudy to a great writer/QB, who had their one great season under the sun when their time came that will always be remembered.

I always envisioned that maybe Betemit was going to play the Harper Lee to Chipper’s Capote. Guess that ain’t gonna happen, huh? From what DOB and many others are saying, Betemit’s first book is flopping. The editors don’t quite know what to do with it. The editors though are more angry with the flopping of the Betemit book than the publishers of the book. The publishers keep telling the editors, no big deal, all we gave up in that Betemit book deal was Aybar and Baez. Not all of Chipper Capote’s understudies and friends will become Chipper Capote or Harper Lee.

Alright, it’s official. I’m crazy. Time to give it a rest.

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

mike, why would a store owner or a store employee ever apologize to a customer? customers are annoying as well to store owners and store employees but last time I checked customers are a necessity and do not appreciate much being treated as a mere nuisance. that kind of thinking does not bode well for business.

Why would a store owner or store employee ever apologize to a health inspector or other government regulator? Last time I checked you better be somewhat on their good side or your business will be shut down and you will have no business.

Reporters and athletes probably both find each other to be annoying but necessary nuisances. I don’t know this for a fact but I am pretty sure Chipper did not cry too much last week about being under siege from reporters when DOB went against public sentiment to stick up for Chipper.

As the old television intro goes, You take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and there you have The Facts of Life, the Facts of Life.

Or maybe you prefer this one: It takes, Diff’rent Strokes to move the world. Yes it does. It takes, Diff’rent Strokes to move the world.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Grinch-Afraid I got to go with you on this one. I’ve been more than aware of Van Morrison literally for decades. When I worked at a music store, I saw him sell out ten shows at a small venue in 12 minutes. Then they scheduled 10 more and he sold out in 5 minutes. People love the guy. I’ve never been able to figure out why. Can’t deal with him myself. He bores me to tears. There, Ive said it. Come on and castigate me-and yes, I know I like the band that shall never again be mentioned on the Man In Black Blog. Go figure, huh?

By KC

March 23, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

No Chop Zone:

Pedro will probably be back around the all-star break, but there’s going to be a re-acclimation period for him when he does return… so it could be August before he’s able to make a significant contribution. And that’s assuming that his latest surgery won’t do anything to further diminish his stuff as his previous shoulder/arm surgeries have.

Also, once Hampton comes back, I figure it’s going to take him a few months to get back into any sort of flow. But if he’s able to return in the early part of May as is now speculated… he should begin rounding into form right around the same time Pedro would. So I don’t think the Mets are the only team looking forward to a late season lift.

But the fact of the matter is that if Hudson has a good year, and Chuck James simply picks up where he left off… the Braves will win the division, regardless of what happens with Pedro and Hampton.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-Dude, Please tell me you looked up those TV lyrics. Please tell me you didn’t actually watch them enough to memorize them. If so, I may agree that you’re crazy-or something.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

March 23, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Okay, I am officially in the corner for not knowing something that all Braves fans should know. After reading Bowman’s article on www.atlantabraves.com about Smoltz starting Opening Day, he talked about Smoltz now having five pitches to use. I am miscounting or something. Fastball, slider, split-finger, curve, and changeup. Is that right? I just can’t remember, and not playing baseball as a kid it is tought to keep the pitches straight (or curving) sometimes. Thanks for any clarification.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

KC….I agree with you but I will say that Pedro would be a bigger lift to the Mets than Hampton would be to the Braves. Pedro is looked to as a leader more so than hampton since he’s a hall of famer with a ring. I still say in general the Mets will get stronger and a team looking to win the division better jump to a real big lead to stave off the Mets later in the season. But don’t get me wrong, I still think the Mets will playing winning baseball all season.

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Lew, I am sorry. I am crazy and pathetic. But, yes, I did have to look up the lyrics because I have never been the type who listens to and memorizes lyrics too much. I am much more of a beat and sound of voice man than a lyrics man.

But I did have a general idea of what the lyrics were because I did indeed watch too many of those types of shows as a kid and it gets pounded into your head after a while. Just like most kids in the eighties, I came home after school at 2:30 everyday and watched Inspector Gadget, Ducktales, Voltron, Thundercats, G.I. Joe, He-Man, The Brady Bunch, Different Strokes, Facts of Life, Three’s Company, What’s Happening?, Happy Days, The Jeffersons until the prime time shows came on at eight. Somewhere in there I managed to play alot of ball as well. So, I would imagine that most people of my generation would know the lyrics to all of those television show intros.

But that does not mean that it is not sad anyway.

I will admit though that quoting lyrics from the Facts of Life is pretty Capote-ish - not from a writing standpoint but from a well you know what I mean.

Lew, I will forfeit my man card to you now. Feel free to return it to me when you deem me worthy of re-entering manhood.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Matthew-That sounds about right. Most pitchers these days also throw two and four seam fastballs. The movement on these pitches appernetly acts differently to right and left handed batters. Definitely life has evolved since your Daddy’s baseball.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

March 23, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Grinch:

Get Van Morrison’s Greatest Hits - that’s a good start- you can skip over ‘Brown Eyed Girl” if you like, but don’t miss “Moondance” (probably the best jazz/rock song ever), “Jackie Wilson Said”, “Bright Side of the Road” & “Full Force Gale”. If none of those songs do it for you, then you won’t ever get Van.

I hope that the Braves can pick up something for T. Pena. It’s a shame he’s a Mendoza line type.. his defense seems stellar. I seem to recall the Braves had a similiar situation with Raphael Belliard - he served the backup infielder role very well. Guess they just don’t have room for that type on the bench this year. As far as I’m concerned, they can send Aybar to Zanzibar - never was impressed with the guy from the day he came over.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 23, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

more song lyrics to enjoy: A horse is a horse, of course, of course, And no one can talk to a horse of course That is, of course, unless the horse is the famous Chipper Jones.

Go right to the source and ask the horse He’ll give you the answer that you’ll endorse. He’s always on a steady course. Talk to Chipper Jones.

People yakkity yak a streak and waste your time of day But Chipper Jones will never speak unless he has something to say

A horse is a horse, of course, of course, And this one’ll talk ‘til his voice is hoarse. You never heard of a talking horse?

Well listen to this: “Uh, I am Chipper Jones.”

this song should be played each time hoss comes to the plate. dob, please ask hoss what hoss thinks about this when you talk with hoss today.

By Shaun

March 23, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Anybody read this on si.com?

SI.com: Are you familiar with the statistical-minded Internet sites like Baseball Prospectus?

Schilling: Yeah, I love those guys. I don’t always agree with them but I think those are some incredibly smart guys. I’ve actually worked in the past with some guys there on statistical stuff I do for preparation. Will Carroll is the guy I’ve exchanged some information with.

SI.com: Do you think that Internet-based baseball analysts and writers should be available for BBWAA awards and Hall of Fame voting?

Schilling: Oh, it’ll come full-circle at some point. Why wouldn’t it? They already have a much larger impact than the Murray Chass’ of the world would like to believe. I mean, you’ve got guys who are putting out what I know to be legitimately valuable statistical information and its relevance to a game in a win or a loss at Baseball Prospectus. Then you have guys that I’m not too fond of, like Murray Chass, who says, “What is VORP and who cares?” It was a stupid article. The only thing it did was show his ignorance to me in modern day baseball. Because those numbers do matter, those numbers do have value. Do they have value to me in getting a player out? No. But I would tell you that there are a lot of front offices that use those numbers for a lot of important decision making.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

ChopZone-Dude, this is a serious response here. No sarcasm intended. I would be very wary of putting too many eggs in Pedro’s basket. He was definitely one of the greatest pitchers of the past ten years. However, his skills have been fading. He was not the pitcher he once was, even before the surgery. In addition, he had foot, calf AND shoulder issues. The foot problems are chronic and likely to remain an issue. Coming back from shoulder surgery is no sure thing, as far as pitching to former levels. It is much less certain than a return from Tommy John surgery. Even if he returns in July (providing there are no setbacks), it may take him four or five starts (maybe more), to get his form back. Now I’m not telling you to write him off. He could contribute. I’m just cautioning patience here. On the other hand, I’m not expecting much from Hampton, either. Neither pitcher may influence much of anything this season.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

One more Thought——If we’re going to play the IF game…..What if Maine, Perez and Pelfrey collectivley have good season? I know Brave fans won’t EVER give us the benefit of using the IF scenario but Maine is very capable of winning 12-14 game, Perez has won 12 before and Pelfrey has looked great this spring so why can’t he win 10? You know Glavine will get his 12-15 wins. IFS can be used by the Mets as well. I’ve said this all off season. Brave fans are underestimating the talent on the Mets. From managment down to the bullpen this is not the same organization from years past and last year was proof of that. So keep on underestimating the NEW YORK METS….Thats fine with me.

By CC Rider

March 23, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

DOB, One “Van the Man” CD that never gets mentioned is “Irish Heartbeat” with the unbelievable Chieftains. Van doing traditional Irish songs as only he can. Brings a tear to my eye everytime I hear the irish rover song Carrickfergus. Let’s also not forget the get rock work he did with “THEM” -Baby Please Don’t GO, Gloria, etc. When you can understand him, he’s the best.

By journalist jimmy smith

March 23, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

journalist jimmy smith has been a fan of absorbine jr. for a long time. maybe that is why journalist also likes tony pena, jr. anyway, this journalist is pleased to inform all that absorbine jr. is also for horses. dob, any chance dob could check hoss’ locker for absorbine jr.?

now, absorbine products to look for: fly control, hoof care, muscle care, and dob should look for hooflex thrush remedy. thrush is not to be trifled with.

thrush? could it be?

By Kevin C

March 23, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

DOB

I saw that Jon Heyman from SI reports Smoltz is “disenchanted” with the Braves and will not sign a team friendly contract in the future. Any merit to his story? Another question is with locking up McCann and possibly Frenchy, does this signal that the Braves are more inclined to sign Smoltz rather than Andruw? Thanks

By Shaun

March 23, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE,

I don’t think any objective fan underestimates the Mets. I think they see that the Mets aren’t likely to repeat last season’s performance—particularly their pitchers—so the Braves and Phillies have legit shots.

That said, objectively speaking the Mets may have be be favorites because of their core of great young or fairly young talent. The Braves and Phillies have a a few older key players who could be susceptible to injury. The Phillies are also relying on some young pitchers which could pay off big or could not.

By Adam

March 23, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

No Chop Zone,

I think the Mets will be in the thick of things all year long. They have a fantastic lineup and 2 players that are improving every year in Reyes and Wright. The only thing I would be extremely worried about is the starting rotation. They need to make a trade to help shore things up. If they can get a good starter to help fill the void left by Pedro, then they have a very good chance of winning the division again. I would not feel to great about having El Duque as my #2. What I would be even more concerned about is that when they get to the playoffs, pitching is king and if they don’t make a move or 2 to help things, they won’t last long at all.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-Not talking emasculation here, Dude, maybe just intensive therapy. I must admit to watching much He Man and The Transformers, myself. I had to watch them with my son. Even made him a Skelator castle for Christmas one year.

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Ok, come on out and say whats up Friday 4/6/2007: Section 311L Row 2 4/7/2007: Section 228R Row 16 4/8/2007: Section 221L Row 14

Dont be afraid to say wahts up and chug a beer/soda.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

You may be “objective” but there are others who aren’t. I do agree that the Braves have made improvements to their bullpen but have subtracted some of their offense through their trades (Laroche)…..I can’t wait for the season to start.

By braveheart

March 23, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

The way I think the race shakes out is this: It will be a tight 3 way race with all three teams on paper looking like 85-90 win teams. the first to 90-92 wins in my opinion will win it all. Someone might run away like the Mets did last year but I don’t think that is going to happen. When the braves win 60% of the games started by Smoltz, and Hudson and 55% of the games started by James and 50% of the games started by the other pitchers, the Braves should win 90 games. Keep in mind No Chop that the Braves have won 60% of all games started by Smoltz, Hudson, James, and Hampton. So that is not wishful IF thinking by a Braves fan. The lineups are pretty much even. You had a better pen last year. Our pen is better this year. Smoltz is better than Glavine. Hudson is better than Duque. Maine and James I will say are pretty much even. Hampton is ahead of Pedro on the road to recovery. Davies and Pelfrey are both unknown quantitites and thus equals. Redman and Cormier are essentially equals with Perez, Sosa, Chan Ho, Sele. So, I think the advantage we have in the pen, Smoltz, Hudson, and Hampton ahead of Pedro in terms of recovery will be the difference in us winning 90-92 games and the Mets only winning 85-89 games.

By Shaun

March 23, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE,

I don’t think the Braves have lost that much on offense. Yes, they’ve lost some but if they struggle again this season it will likely be because of the back-end of the rotation not because of the offense they lost.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

ChopZone-Dude, you just don’t get it. It doesn’t matter whether or not we, as Braves’ fans, believe that Pedro is the second coming or Beltran is the greatest living hitter. We will never say this to you. We’re Braves’ fans. You’re in OUR neighborhood. What in the world do you expect? Even if we thought that we would come in 25 games behind the Mets (which of course, we don’t believe), we are unlikely to ever admit it to a mere Mets’ fan. I really don’t see why you expect it to be otherwise. If we were to come on a Mets’ blog (which for the life of me I can’t figure why we would), would Mets’ fans bow down and kiss our feet? Hell no, they wouldn’t, nor should they. Remember where you are little Chop Zone. You’re with your betters here. Learn your place. Mets fans. Bah.

By CC Rider

March 23, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

No Chop Zone, I don’t think anyone is underestimating the Mets talent or the improvement of the organization. The Braves bloggers are just looking at this season’s situation. The lineups are vitually even: The Mets are better at 1st, ss. The Braves are better at catcher, rightfield. 3rd base and centerfield are even if Chipper plays 140 games, while 2nd and leftfield are a wash if Kelly Johnson is just average. The rotations are closer than people think, Smoltz is still a #1 to Glavines#2 and if Hudson pitches to his past the edge is his over El Duque. The rest will probably play out fairly even, including the returns of Pedro and Hampton. If it was 3 or 4 years ago Pedro would have the advantage, but Pedro will never be the pitcher of that period again, still good but not great, just like Hampton. The real difference this year will be in the Bullpen. The Braves top 3 pitchers are healthier and better now and the depth goes all the way to Richmond with Boyer, Stockman Devine, Moylan and on. The Mets crew are question marks more than last year: Sanchez not healthy, Burgos having control problems and have you thought that the reason Mota was so successful last year , when he hasn’t been for the last few years, might be because of the very reason he is suspended. All together that is why the Braves fans feel comfortable in feeling the Mets had a great season last year, but as they have fallen back the Braves may have caught and past them as it stands now.

By braveheart

March 23, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Lew, I forgot to mention Transformers. Great toon. Cool dad buying and building that for your kid.

BTW, didn’t buy the Thin Lizzy CD you recommended but did download all the songs from that Live and Dangerous CD. That is some really good stuff. Got the greatest hits as well. I didn’t realize how many of their songs I had heard many times but just never put a name to it. As I said above, I am a sound of the beat and voice kind of guy, and their sound is awesome - kickass slipping into mellow moments and then at other times being kickass and mellow at the same time. cool stuff.

Won’t be able to type for the rest of the weekend. They are about to put the straitjacket on me. Hopefully, the meds will work this time. If not, I might be in there for a while. Hopefully, they will get me stabilized enough for Opening Day.

Have a great weekend, folks.

By flange1

March 23, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

ChopZone, Don’t think Braves fans are dumb, we know that your young guys Maine, Pelfrey especially are decent pitchers and have a chance, probably a good chance of winnning the amount of games that you are suggesting. Perez is a true wildcard. He has been very good and very bad. Glavine, while not a number 1 anymore, is a good pitcher and should win the nembers you suggest or more. Pedro HAS been a great pitcher. But with sholder problems, you never really know what you are going to get. I agree with Lew that anything you get from him will be a bonus.

I think the Met’s real problem will be their bullpen. I think they will score fewer runs, because outside their big 3, they are getting older. Greene should consider retiring! But with the bullpen injuries and changes, someone is going to have to step up to get them to Wagner. Yes I know Mota is coming back at mid season, but how will he perform WITHOUT the juice? Is Sanchez going to be dominant again or is he a whiny baby like our friend Jorge Sosa? WHO KNOWS? He has not had the best of springs…

Don’t get me wrong, I hate the Mets with a passion! But they kicked our butts good last year! I think we will return the favor this year. I think the Braves have improved their pitching staff, and the Mets have regressed in their pitching staff.

We will see!

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

You’re an idiot Lew. We’re talking baseball. This isn’t a gang war over turf a-hole. You can still be big enuf to acknowledge another teams weakness or strenghts. If what you want is to always hear what you want to hear then stick around with those who’ll tell it to you. But you risk never expanding your base of knowledge and understanding.

By KC

March 23, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Shaun is correct. After the season Giles had last year… we’re not likely to lose anything at 2B from last year to this year.

That leaves only 1B that will separate this year’s offense from last year’s NL-best lineup. We’re likely to lose about 7-10 homers and 10-20 RBI.

Sure, we’d love to have gotten Gonzalez/Lillibridge without having to give up LaRoche… but a loss of 7-10 homers and 10-20 RBI is not going to cripple this offense. Atlanta will still be near the top of the NL in every major offensive category.

No Chop: You guys are waiting on Pedro’s return, and we’re waiting on Hampton’s return. But once again, if Hudson and James are on…. none of it will matter.

By Shaun

March 23, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

As a Braves fan, I’m actually more concerned about the Phillies. They have the potential to be a really good team, if their young pitching comes together.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Braveheart-I didn’t buy it and build it. I made it myself.

By flange1

March 23, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

No Chop, DUDE, I don’t get it! You have a dozen REAL responses to your post, yet you ignore them to call Lew an a## hole. Lew was telling you that you should not expect the Braves nation to kiss your feet because you won last year and you are a fan on OUR blog site. If you read Lew’s posts he very specifically tells you why the Braves are better than the Mets.

As DOB would say, leave the personal crap out of it and respond to the posts…

By Lew

March 23, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

ChopZone-Don’t you worry about my base of understanding. I check out EVERY teams’ websites. I listen to MLB Home Plate on XM on a daily basis. I do fantasy baseball, too. I probably know as much about what’s happening in baseball as anyone you’re likely to meet. You’re the one that reacts emotionally, Dude. I’ve never said Yo Mama or Yo Sister to anyone. You have. On a regular basis. I’d like to see you go rant on a Yankees blog and not get your Mets’ butt reamed. Probably with terminology worse than you’re likely ever to here on The Man In Black Blog. Do you think a Giants fan on a Dodger’s Blog will get an even shake? How about a Cubs’ fan on a White Sox blog or a Yankees fan in Boston. Grow up and get real. I don’t like the Mets. I am a BRAVES fan. This is a BRAVES blog. You are a Mets’ fan. This is a BRAVES’ Blog. Do you get it yet? Huh? Do you? It ain’t about you or me. Try yelling racial epithets in Bedford Stuy and see how far you walk.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Chop Zone- You said ” If what you want is to always hear what you want to hear, then stick around those who’ll tell it to you.” Uh, Dude, I thought I was. This is a BRAVES BLOG. You still don’t get it, do you.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

You’re right Flange1……I lost my composer. My apologies. I do realize this is a Braves Blog and appreciate yours(and others)perspective on the division. So I will just be humble while visiting and be a good guest….I am sorry for my temporary disconnect from reason.

By KC

March 23, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

“One more Thought——If we’re going to play the IF game…..What if Maine, Perez and Pelfrey collectivley have good season? I know Brave fans won’t EVER give us the benefit of using the IF scenario but Maine is very capable of winning 12-14 game, Perez has won 12 before and Pelfrey has looked great this spring so why can’t he win 10? You know Glavine will get his 12-15 wins. IFS can be used by the Mets as well. I’ve said this all off season. Brave fans are underestimating the talent on the Mets. From managment down to the bullpen this is not the same organization from years past and last year was proof of that. So keep on underestimating the NEW YORK METS….Thats fine with me.”

NO CHOP: OKAY, here’s the difference… Im my view, there are two different categories of what we’re calling “ifs” here:

There’s “If we get lucky and all goes well…”

And then there’s “As long as things happen as we should reasonable expect them to…”

There’s a big difference between the two.

I like Maine. I think it’s reasonable to think he could win 15 games and post an ERA around or under 4.00. That falls in the “As long as things happen as should resonably expect” category. Tom Glavine having a good year would fall in the very same category.

Looking for anyone else in your rotation to give you a very good season would fall in the “If we get lucky and all goes well…” category.

Tim Hudson had the first and only poor season of his elite major league career last year. He’s young, healthy, and has had a very good spring. To look for Hudson to post an ERA somewhere in the 3.00’s with 15 wins or better… definitely falls under “things we should reasonably expect”.

Chuck James has been successful at every level, and in both the pen and rotation at the major league level. He is rerarded throughout baseball as “the real deal”. He certainly belongs in the same category.

So yes, we could both pull out all the “ifs” we want. But some “ifs” really aren’t all that iffy, while others are just hopes and dreams.

I know I’ve used the word “if” in regard to Hudson and James, but would I should have said was “as long as”. You could say the same for Glavine and Maine, I believe.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Chop Zone-Just be glad you’re a Mets’ fan and not a Florida fan. Flange and Grinch will tell you what we Georgia Dawgs think about Gators. We really don’t like them at all. #Even less than we like Mets. Much, much less. One of my favorite bumper stickers was always “My favorite teams are the Dawgs and whoever plays the Gators.” You have NO idea what hate and anymosity is all about.

By David O'Brien

March 23, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Kevin C, I don’t think what the Braves did with McCann really has any bearing at all on Andruw. Totally different scenarios. Andruw will make nearly as much PER YEAR in his contract as McCann makes in the first five of his. And unless you know something I or Frenchy doesn’t, they aren’t in negotiations to sign Francoeur long-term.

I do think they might try to do it later, but no rush. Francoeur won’t even be eligible for arbitration until after the 2008 season. But I’d think his price will definitely go up if he hits, say, .280 with 30 homers and 110 RBIs this season.

As for Smoltz being “disenchanted,” I don’t think he feels any differently than he has for a few years. He loves being with Braves and living in Atlanta, but that doesn’t mean he’s best buds with the front office guys. Doesn’t have to be.

NY guys have been writing about Smoltz coming up there for years, or alluding to it. I’ll believe he’s leaving Atlanta when I see it. Too early to tell what new ownership will want to do, what Smoltz will do this season, etc. He’s going to be 40. You wait and see what he does this year before you do anything, probably.

By wg

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

GAWD AWFULL COLUMN today. You can and have done much better. Try getting up to speed instead of tanning all day.

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

Lew, if you built it, then that is way cooler. Perhaps even cooler than your impressive CD collection you always talk about.

Lew is actually one of the most knowledgeable baseball fans we have. He is also very critical at times and painfully aware of flaws within the Braves squad. But don’t expect him to acknowledge those with Mets fans.

As with any family, we can be as critical as anyone else of our loved ones and family members. But for an outsider to come in and start saying my son is better than your son or my wife is better than your wife, do you expect Lew or any of the rest of us not to punch you back in the mouth?

Hell, you can say the same exact critical things we say privately to our wife, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, mothers, or fathers but there ain’t gonna be any damn body outside our family allowed to say anything about them.

You’re not going to tell me your wife is better looking than mine, that your daughter is prettier than my daughter, that your son is a better ballplayer than my son, that your father was better than my father, that your mother cooks better than my mother.

Hell, we may know you are right in our hearts and heads but don’t you dare tell me that to my face or behind my back and then think I am going to let you walk away without getting your lights punched out.

That’s just the way it is.

If you can accept that, then fine, stick around the house of our dysfunctional family even if you end up with a bloody nose every once in a while. But don’t you dare call us dysfunctional while you’re here.

If you can’t, then well, there are planes leaving every hour from Hartsfield back up to Newark, Laguardia, and JFK.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Chop Zone-It’s like this. DOB is a KU fan. That’s where he went ot school. He wouldn’t expect a loyal Georgia Dawg like me to run around yelling Rock Chalk, anymore than I expect him to run around yelling Go Dawgs, Sic Em. It doesn’t work that way. We still get along on most subjects (even if he does like country music and I prefer Hard Rock) However, I have nothing against you personally, except for the fact that you make personal attacks on me. It has nothing to do with you being a Mets fan. Hell, I even get along pretty well with Metro Dude, despite his delusional following of the Mets.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Well Thank You Braveheart-You may now reclaim your man card from the regitrar.

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Okay, everyone calm down.

Go get you water bottles.

Now, go smoke your jewelry.

Hopefully, that will chill things out for a while.

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

April 6-8 is when the 1st shot will be fired. You guys have no clue what it means to be a METS fans so let me enlighten you. For starters we are living in Stankee land and their Stankee history that was bought when the Gambinos rans NY. We had the stigma of a new franchise until the end of 1969 when we finally got some respect. We were excpected to win and lost most times so we were always in the conversation as hype, but seem to fizzle out with bad combinations of mangement, ownership,farm system, and just lack of talent. Now for some reason the METS lacked 1 or 2 of these requirements different seasons, the successful seasons were the ones where all three came into play causing the terms ‘Miracle Mets, and the Amazins. Now anyone who hasnt noticed the change and continuous growth since Minaya and Willie are running the show are not METS fans. Us METS fans see the difference, hell we can even feel the difference. Last year was the year to say, “everything is going good, when is the other shoe gonna drop?” There is none of that anymore becasue we can afford to sign big leagers and let them go,(Soler, Sierra, Sel, Park)and not pinch pennies and be forced to bottom feed like some franchises. You guys see a METS player getting cut and laughing then I see the braves pick up a journeyman and he is the next Smoltz. If we let mediocre talent go and you guys pick up mediocre talent, your roster spot is filled and ours is open to be filled with somebody with MLB caliber stuff.
Anyway come check out the games next week and introduce yourselves, lets stop hiding behind screens. Our Farm system is so hot right now, TRUE METS fans cant contain themselves becasue we are good now but will be a true force when CitiField is up and running.

By Jeff R

March 23, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Given today’s market, and given that there aren’t many blue chip catchers in the game, McCann is a bargain.

DOB is right about Smoltz. He’s 40, and best to see how he performs this season before assessing a new contract.

Andruw Jones is going to command a heck of a lot of money for an outfielder, even a gifted center fielder. Unless the new ownership frees up $20-30 million more annually for pay roll, I don’t think it’s worth trying to resign him. Even with more dollars in the budget, I’d have my doubts. Either way, I’d rather see the money go into more pitching and obtaining a capable young center fielder (offensively and defensively). The Pirates have a CF prospect (Andrew McCutchen) working up through their system who will likely bump out Chris Duffy. The Braves were interested in Duffy last winter, as I recollect. Though he doesn’t have A. Jones’ power numbers, he’s got speed and can leadoff. That sort of player, if he can be obtained, would fill a need at far less cost.

A. Jones will be too expensive. Spend the momey elsewhere.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Metro Dude-Mets’ fans can’t contain themselves because they’ve had so little good happen to them in their entire history. It has been an extremely disfunctional franchise. Lord knows, your farm system needed an overhaul. I wouldn’t talk about a complete turnaround quite yet, though. Reyes, Wright and a couple of as yet unproven pitchers hardly betokens a turnaround. Only time will tell, but based on the past, one must wonder. I’m still very perplexed about why the Mets didn’t do more in the offseason to bolster their pitching. With all of the money we’ve been hearing about for two years, I just can’t understand. Your answer that you were waiting for Johan Santana and Carlos Zambrano to become free agents struck me as totally ridiculous. No one who wins 97 games waits a year in the middle to assure themselves of continuing success. You had to have had better options that Sosa and Park. I mean, come on Metro Dude, they can’t fill your heart with joy as Braves fans well know. Remember, we already had Sosa. You’re counting pretty heavily on two very young, unproven pitchers and a pitcher who had one good year several years ago. I’d be worried if I were you. Not to mention your much weaker bullpen. No one holds a prized reliever back from starting the season just for being late. Dude, there’s something wrong with Sanchez-not just his alarm clock.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

They don’t understand Metro Man……It’s a NY METS thing.

By doc

March 23, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

braveheart thanks for the follow up. yes many have questioned the veracity of harper lee as the real author as it was her only written piece of renown or substance with no attempt at follow up. most dispute the idea but some still argue that capote was the real author. the connection for this blog is to so many that come here to say “it wasnt really me” that wrote under their pseudonym and leave us to ask “who really wrote it”.

lee thanks for your efforts to fill in the blanks for me but i was referring to just what braveheart and others said and playing with the notion that jjs would come back and say it wasnt him after getting so many cudos.

By David O'Brien

March 23, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

WG, thanks for reading and posting (and what a contribution you made. Good for you).

Oh, and it’s a blog, not a column.

Now, back to tanning.

NEW COLUMN IS UP.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

March 23, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Lew:

Good analogy about the UGA/UF rivalry. For some really nasty stuff, hang around an Alabama/Auburn blog,chat room, etc. There is nothing worse, for us Auburn fans, than a Crimson Turd. For some really, really, really nasty stuff, check out Ohio State/Michigan - those people beat and stab one another.

I’m not advocating things rise to that level with the Mutts. To be honest, I grew up hating the Bums because we were in the West Division, and they were the team that perenially threw us to the ground stepped on our throat, and kept us down. Since realignment, outside of a couple of years in the 80’s (when the Mutts were good, and much better than us), I can’t really say I have developed a hate of them. Honestly, since 1991, they have been nothing more to me, as a Braves fan, than a mere annoyance. Maybe the reason I feel that way is that we kicked the everloving crap out of them year in and year out, no matter how much they spent in the FA market. Remember the days when Chipper went to Shea, they taunted him by chanting “Larry”, he smirked, spit, dug in at the plate and launched moon shots?

Its fine by me that these guys come in here - gives us somebody to argue with besides ourselves. Last year was an abberation from the usual for the Mutts. I don’t think they’re going to be nearly as good as they were in ‘06. Last year was an abberation for us - I don’t think we’re going to be nearly as bad (at least pitching wise) as we were. I am more worried about the Phils than I am the Mutts. Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, and company (playing in that band box they do) worry me more than Reyes, Wright, Beltran, et. al. (though I certainly recognize those guys are talented, capable, etc.).

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

I too feel sorry for Mccann because he was robbed. Even though I cant stand the braves, I do give credit where credit is due. Mccans best years will be in this block the JS has him locked up for and when the body starts to were down from catching 6 years later, will he still be on the rise, decline, or at his best? I just know JS is a shrewd guy and Mccann deserves his pay, full pay. I know you guys are happy to have him becasue I would be too, but arent you guys a little miffed on the amount $$ of his contract???

By DonCoburleone

March 23, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Yeah! Thank God you’ve been here Lew to put NoChopZone in his place. You’re exactly right Lew, what does he expect us to say to him? This is what the majority of us think: Our starting rotation is better than yours, our bullpens are now even, and you offense is slightly better than ours (only because you’ve got Reyes who can steal bases, making it a more well-rounded offense).

THATS IT! What more do you expect us to say you New York B!TCH!

By The Grinch

March 23, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, no shame in remembering the lyrics. I, too, am a child of the 80’s, and debated with my buddies about if we were on the set of “facts of Life” what order Blair, Jo, and Tootie would be in and how many beers it would take for Natalie. And most of America, for some inexplicable reason, tuned in for a whole half hour just to see Coleman say “Whatchootalkin’bout, Willis?” We are an orphaned generation.

MetroMan, do to some recent financial setbacks, I’m not gonna be able to go to a Mets game until May, most likely. But I’ll let you know and if you’re there, we’ll do the beer thing. Despite my spending so much time on a computer, I’m far from a recluse.

Lew, I agree; until the Mets get as threatening as the Gators they will continue to get much milder treatment than they probably deserve.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Lew what was so functional about the Braves before 1991? Were you a fan in the 70’s and 80’s? All teams go through their ups and downs. The Mets have been to four WS and won two of them. We have nothing to apologize for. The Atanta Brave have just one ring. I know you’ll go on and on about the divisions but c’mon the braves had had their Very low points. I mean how many cities have they represented 3-4? All I’m saying there’s hi’s and low’s with every organization.

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Wrong again Lew. The problem we had in the past was letting guys hold us hostage by being desperate on a bad previous season. Now the opposite is true. Why pay a king ransom for a guy to play for you after you are 1 pitch from the WS. Any player who is a free agent is either playing for money (Obviously) or a chance to win. I’m not mad at METS mangement looking for a guy who want to win instead of just cashing a paycheck when you can do both with the Stankees. Everything has changed form top to bottom and only METS fans can see that, the optimistic ones and the pessimist. Now Sanchez is another story. He thought becasue he was hurt he could show up late and not work hard. Well Willie and Minaya made an example out of him and the media turned it into a saga. Now Sanchez is legitamely hurt but no one really know how bad. Righ now he could be childish and doenst want to play until he is not mad anymore cause daddy yelled at him. Either way he is expendable becasue we need gamers. Traschel took himself out of a playoff game becasue of some injury, where is he now????

By OddJob

March 23, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

The question concerning locking up Frenchy,I don’t see that it’s clear how good he’ll be.It may have been a year early to sign McCann but you can see why they did it now,but Frenchy ? not in my mind let’s see him take some pitches,make adjustments,and get his ops to a respectable level first.

By DonCoburleone

March 23, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Quote all the stats about the Mets you want NoChopZone, but they are, and forever will be the red-headed stepchild in New York… This is the best your team has been in 7 years, and they still aren’t even the best team in their own city. So sad…

By wg

March 23, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB. My contribution wasn’t any more or less than yours was. I have been a Braves fan since they were in Boston and won’t dignify most of these blooger idiots with intelligent responses.

By The Grinch

March 23, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

No Chop Zone, if you’re going to talk about franchise history, we’ve won more WS than you all. We, however, don’t feel the need to go back to the Boston Beaneaters to prove a point. I can understand the reluctance to keep things to recent accomplishments, though. And yes, when I was growing up I thought the Braves might be doomed to suckdom forever after trading Brett Butler until ‘91. Perhaps we’re a bit spoiled. But judging how much you guys crow about winning last year, don’t tell me y’all wouldn’t be absolutely insufferable if the fortunes of the last 15 years had been reversed.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

I guess DonCo hasn’t gotten is daily f-ck up the a-s-s so he woke up grumpy and full of S-H-I-T.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-You’re changing the point. What I was referencing was Metro Dude’s talk of how your farm system has turned around. No one was dredging up ancient history. Yes, I’ve been a Braves’ fan for the better part of 40 years, though I was born and raised as a Phillies fan in Philadelphia. Then I moved to Georgia. Talking about your two WS rings to our one means nothing here. We’re talking the past 20 years. Again, I ask, who was the last stud pitcher produced by the Mets’ system? You never answered that. The Mets have, for years and even now, relied on signing free agents to round out their lineup. Very, very few good players have come up from your minors in many years. Yes, Reyes and Wright are bona fide superstars in the making. See, I can talk sense, even by your lights. Pelfrey and Maine MAY also be superstars in the making. But I’ll hold off for a year or two before determing that is a fact. Reyes and Wright at least have a track record. Now Division Titles aside, let’s compare our lineups in terms of home grown talent. You have two position players from your own system. We have 7 if Langerhans is in left, 6 if Diaz plays. Let’s look at the pitching in terms of farm system. In the past 15 years, the Braves have produced Glavine, Avery, Millwood, Jason Schmidt, Marquis, Wainright, James and Davies. Even Smoltz, though he started out in the Tigers organization, still pitched for the Braves’ farm system and has been with the Braves for his entire career. I’m sure I’ve missed a few, also, like Zach Miner. The Mets, on the other hand, have produced Scott Kazmir. Tell me where I should find the optimism that your minors have improved to the point MetroDude mentions. Sorry, but all smack talk aside, I just don’t see much to be excited about for your future, much less this year. Your front office has failed to capitalizze on your excellent 06. They shoulkd have done everything possible to stengthen your team. They didn’t. The Mets are weaker in all phases of pitching this year, though you do have a solid offense.

By NO CHOP ZONE

March 23, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Grinch….Lew bought up the history of the Mets franchise And I did say the “Atlanta” Braves. Were you a fan when they played for Boston or Milwaukee?? I’m Sure most of the bloggers here weren’t either.

By DonCoburleone

March 23, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Ouch, NO CHOP ZONE you hurt my feelings with that one… By the way, why are Mets fans hanging out on OUR blog? Perhaps you guys are angry about not being able to get through to NY sports-talk shows cuz it’s nothing but Yankee talk? Poor, insignificant Mets… I feel bad for you fans…

By Lew

March 23, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Chop Zone-Well, I don’t know that I was a fan when they were in Milwaukee, but I did see them play a lot when they were there. The Hammer kept kicking my Phillies’ butts. You want to talk about home team frustration, I’m sure you’ve heard of the Phillies’ infamous 10 game losing streak in 64? Lost the pennant on the last day after blowing a 6 1/2 game lead with 11 left to play. I was at game 7 of that streak. Johnny Callison hit three consecutive HR’s and the Phillies still lost 11-8. They were going with a 2 man rotation-Jim Bunning and Chris Short. So, you see, Chop Zone, I DO know bad teams, especially when you consider I went to Braves’ games in the 70’s with about 1,000 of my closest friends. Maybe I’ve had as much experience with bad teams as Mets’ fans. That’s why I can’t understand your optimism. Can’t you see the Mets have gone downhill? BTW Chop Zone-Your attack on Don C is totally uncalled for. A typical NY juvenile response with no intelligent thought behind it. I’m sure you can do better than that. Sure hope so, anyway.

By The Grinch

March 23, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

NCZ, you started off referring to them as Atlanta, but then you talked about “Franchise” disapointments and asked how many cities the Braves have been through. That’s what I meant. Anyhow, it doesn’t matter. This is all nonsense until the season actually starts.

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Here you go Lew.

No team cruised to the postseason more easily then the Mets in 2006, who did so with a team built through a variety of ways. There were free agents (Carlos Beltran, Billy Wagner), homegrown talent (Jose Reyes, David Wright) and trade acquisitions (Carlos Delgado, Paul Lo Duca, John Maine). A late-season injury to one of their biggest free-agent signings, Pedro Martinez, undermined New York in October. After winning 97 regular-season games and sweeping the Dodgers in the Division Series, the Mets fell to the Cardinals in a memorable seven-game Championship Series.

Though the season’s finish was disappointing, New York should be in position to contend for several years. The Mets did their best to ensure that in August, when they locked up both Reyes and Wright beyond their arbitration years for a combined $88.25 million. Reyes is signed through 2010 with an option for 2011 and Wright through 2012 with a 2013 option. Combined with Carlos Beltran, who’s signed through 2011 and has yet to turn 30, the Mets will continue to have one of the game’s best position-player cores for years. All three finished in the top 10 in the National League MVP voting.

The Mets are one of the biggest spenders in baseball and should be able to fill in most of their major holes on the free-agent market. They plugged their hole in left field by signing Moises Alou. But their farm system has improved to the point where they have players at the upper levels ready to make an impact.

Mike Pelfrey and Philip Humber, their first-rounders from 2005 and 2004 appear poised to break into the big league rotation at some point in 2007 and could be its anchors for years to come. Lastings Milledge (who just missed qualifying for this list) and Carlos Gomez may factor into the outfield as well.

General manager Omar Minaya is always willing to trade prospects for big leaguers, too. He parted with three of his best prospects (righthanders Gaby Hernandez and Yusmeiro Petit, plus first baseman Mike Jacobs) last season to get Delgado and Lo Duca in separate deals with the Marlins. This winter, he dangled Milledge in front of the Athletics in an attempt to bolster New York’s rotation.

In recent years, the Mets have done an outstanding job of signing high-ceiling talent. Their drafts haven’t been especially deep, in part because they’ve forfeited eight premium picks in the last five years as free agent compensation, but since 2001 they’ve signed Aaron Heilman, Wright, Scott Kazmir, Milledge, Humber and Pelfrey as first-round or supplemental first-round picks.

A former Mets international scouting director, Minaya also has re-emphasized his club’s efforts on the worldwide market since becoming GM in September 2004. New York invested a combined $2.1 million on Dominican outfielder Fernando Martinez and Venezuelan righthander Deolis Guerra in 2005, and both had outstanding debuts in full-season leagues at age 17. The Mets dipped into the international well again last summer to sign Dominican catcher Francisco Pena, the son of former all-star Tony Pena, for $750,000.

In just two years at the helm, Minaya has turned the Mets from a punchline into one of the teams best equipped for the next half-decade. He has big league talent, minor league talent and a budget as large as anyone in the NL. Like the Mets’ offense in 2006, it’s a lethal combination.

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Hey Don C. I blog here because I live here. But for the millionth time, I read and respond to all baseball news, especially the NY papers. Go to NY daily news, NY newsday, NY post, 1010 Wins, Wfan any of those and get a blog or a million stories on METS, jets, giants, islanders, rangers, devils, knicks, nets……you get the point. So dont worry about why someone blogs here, try keeping the peace because once again its been broken. Cant we disagree and flex on each other without someone striking keys with so much force that the letter disappear on the keypad? You guys are fans of baseball which makes you ok with me even though you love the braves, but supposedly we all love baseball so lets at least respect the game if not each other.

By The Grinch

March 23, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Wow, whoever wrote the Mets’ media guide is pretty good. :-)

By Lew

March 23, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

MetroDude-You just made my point. Omar traded three young players to get DelGado and De Luca. Great moves if you want to win right now, but not for the future. How many years could those three have given you compared to Delgado, who is already experiencing injury problems and LoDuca, who is in his walk year? That’s fine. But if you want to win now and you give up all these young talents to get there, why didn’t Manaya follow it up and get the pitching they need? I would have fired the guy for not improving your rotation. It was criminal and there’s no way to spin it. As far as Lastings Milledge, dangling him sure didn’t do you any good, did it. No one wants him because of his attitude or something. And punishing Sanchez because he was late instead of talking to him behind closed doors is a bush league manager’s move, You sure as hell won’t ever see Bobby Cox pulling a stunt like that. Especially after losing three pieces of what was an excellent bullpen-probably the most important part of your 97 win team. Dumb damn moves by your GM and manager. If you are willing to give up your future to win now, something the Mets have been notorious for, then you’ve got to go all the way, not half and half. I’m still not convinced about the productivity of your farm for the next several years. By your own admission, Omar traded a ton of prospects. He hasn’t been there long enouhg to replace them, either. Go ahead and make your determination of his worth on his signing of Moises Alou. Wow, that one really will look great in the annals of deal making, won’t it?

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

That was Triple AAA stuff in the prvious post Lew, here is the AA optimism.

Each year for several years running, the Mets have sent their very best prospects to AA Binghamton. Last year it was Carlos Gomez, who they pushed to AA without ever having him stop in St. Lucie for A ball.

In 2005 it was top prospect Lastings Milledge who is giving Shawn Green a run for his money in rightfield this spring and trying to make his way to Shea Stadium. In 2004 it was All-Star third baseman David Wright.

This year is no exception as the early read from camp is that sometime this year, prodigy outfielder Fernando Martinez is slated to be roaming the outfield at NYSEG Stadium.

Fernando Martinez stretching prior to a workout in Port St. Lucie. (Ed Tsunoda - nyfuturestars.com)
Martinez - who spent the first couple of weeks of spring training in Major League camp - is 18 years old. This will be only his second year of pro ball, after signing with the Mets for a $1.4 million bonus at age

16 as an International Free Agent. He’s 6’1” and 198lbs and he carries himself in a manner that belies his age. He looks like he belongs when he works on the fields with men twice his age. He’s 3 years younger even than Carlos Gomez who raised eyebrows last year when the Mets sent him to AA at age 20. Gomez struggled early, but finished the year on a tear, finishing the season at .281/.350/.423 for the B-Mets after struggling at around a .200 batting average for the first two months of the season.

Meanwhile, the Mets were challenging the then 17 year old Martinez just as much. They sent the youngster to full season low A ball in Hagerstown where the kid dropped a .333/.389/.505 stat line on much older and more experienced competition despite an early season injury. The Mets were so impressed that they promoted him for a taste of high A ball early enough in the season so he could qualify for the Arizona Fall League, where even high A players are a rare commodity. Fernando was the youngest player in each league he played in, even celebrating his 18th birthday while playing in the AAA/AA laden AFL.

Against the older competition, Martinez started slowly going 1-18, before adjusting and smacking 9 hits in his last 25 ABS to finish with a .233 average in 43 ABs. But it’s more than his stats that you have to look at. It’s his sweet natural swing and his approach that impress everyone who watches. His AFL Manager Pat Listach told Baseball America, “He’s a tough kid with tremendous natural ability. He’s hit some balls I’m just amazed by, to be honest. The first day of batting practice, he’s out there hitting opposite-field home runs.”

While Martinez doesn’t have the natural athleticism of Gomez, or the overall polish of Milledge, he may have the sweetest stroke of the bunch. He draws a crowd every time he steps in a cage, as players, staff, and management all angle for a line of sight where they can watch the youngster who would under normal circumstances be getting ready for his last year of high school ball right now. During one session under the watchful eyes of Mets owners Fred and Jeff Wilpon, GM Omar Minaya, and Manager Willie Randolph, Martinez stung one that hit 40 feet up the batters eye, 410 feet away in straight away centerfield.

The only sound in the awestruck silence afterwards was the voice of Fred Wilpon saying, “Wow.”

He’s that kind of impressive. That’s why the call him “The Future”, and for the B-Mets The Future is now.

By KC

March 23, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Just watching the Braves/Phillies game on ESPN. John Kruk commented that the Braves have fewer questions than either the Mets or the Phillies.

When all 3 of the guys in the booth (Kruk, Martinez, and I can’t remember the other guys name) gave thier picks in the NL East… Kruk said (hesitently) “I still think the Phillies will pull it out”. He said it was his gut feeling that they would make a move or do the necessary things to put themselves in a position to win the east.

In other words… they’re not really in a position to win the east yet. But hey, Kruks is a Phillies lifer. Can’t blame him for that.

The other two guys both picked the Braves to win the east.

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Lew, so you telling Minyaya moves did not improve the team the 2 years he was here becasue results is what counts in NY. Renting Delgado and Loduca stopped your run and brought us legitamacy. So if your complaining about guys who were shipped off for guys who actually hepled us win then you are dilusional. Minaya got rid of players we didnt need for players we did need.

Now wasnt it Booby Cox who pulled A. Jones from a game for not hustling and you criticize METS management. Your star player coined the phrase “homeboy upstairs” becasue even he knows your management is a joke when dealing with star players. You guys can handle guys who arent stars yet becasue of fear of not playing. All I know is every star developed in the ATL leaves with the exception of Smoltz, and the Jones boys (well 1 next year). So when your management finds a way to keep this awsome talent you grow and speak of, then you can say you are different from the METS!

By Metropolitan Man

March 23, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Keeping Millege so far is the best thing that has happened becasue he is tearing spring training up. He has restablished himself as either trade bait for pitching or a great replacement for Grandpa Green. Either way you guys keep picking up crap while the METS will pick up quality from here on out.

By Lew

March 23, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Metro Dude-Pulling a 19 year old rookie for dogging it and not giving an 18 year veteran grief for an offhand comment are apples and oranges. Besides, it was for 2 or 3 innings. How long will it be before Sanchez shows back up? He’s a relief pitcher from a great relief staff and a division winner. You talk to him in private and not make it a NY media event. Especially when you need him badly. Nonetheless. Yes, Minaya improved the Mets-LAST YEAR. He DID NOT improve them over the winter. You will never make me believe, that if they REALLY have all that money every Mets’ fan enjoys throwing in our impoverished faces, that the best he could do was Sosa, Park and Moises Alou. Don’t give me that crap about saving money-that just doesn’t wash. Come on Dude, that has to leave you just as embarrassed as Schuerholz’s mistake of not getting bullpen help for us last year. THAT is what really let the Mets run away with everything. You can’t truly believe we would have had a losing season if the bullpen were decent. Talking about how great your AA team is doesn’t mean much of anything. I could do the same, even though we called up 18 rookies year before last, which depleted our farm for a year or so. Minaya should have taken a lesson from the better NY team. He should have been highly pi$$ed about not going to the series. You Know you should have and won it all, too. Minaya should have gone out and done EVERYTHING possible to improve your team and get them to the series this year, winning it all. He didn’t and now it just won’t happen. Having to rely on the likes of Sosa and Park should burn in the guts of every Mets fan, just like Mike Remlinger and Sosa burned our’s last year. The Dude screwed up in a major fashion. Having kids who may or may not ever do anything several years from now is a pretty pitiful way to follow up your success. Yes, I think Minaya needs to re-evaluate his position. He just proved to me and most other non-partisans, that he isn’t all he cracked up to be. Steinbrenner would have fired him in no uncertain terms.

By Royals Guy

March 23, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Tony Pena is about to be dealt to the Royals. Details should come out today.

By Royals Guy

March 23, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

tony pena jr. dealt to royals. details should appear today. he was traded for a minor league pitcher.

By Royals Guy

March 23, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

tony pena dealt to royals for minor league pitcher. details should be made available from management today.

By Carolina Lady

March 23, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Since when did we allow this to become a Mets dominated blog?? Who cares what they think.

By DonCoburleone

March 23, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

You guys know theres a new blog right?

By Braveheart

March 23, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

man, you guys are hardcore, kept pounding away even hours after closing time. hardcore.