AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > March > 29 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USLet’s take ‘er north, boys
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We’re taking this thing north. Finally.
And if you denizens of the Braves/Man in Black and throughout Braves Nation are half as optimistic as the players are, you must be dying to get this thing started Monday at Philly.
I’m not kidding, as a group this is as eager and optimistic as I’ve heard the Braves in a few years. Everyone you ask in the clubhouse comments about how strong the bullpen is and the great chemistry in the clubhouse.
And everybody says “if.” As in, “if we stay healthy.”
“If everybody stays healthy, I like our chances,” Andruw Jones said. “No doubt we’ve got a great team. I love our chances.”
And what of the NL East champion Mets?
“Now they have got what we had every year _ the pressure to repeat the title,” Jones said. “We just have to go out and do what we do. Our main thing is, stay healthy. If we stay healthy, we’ve got a great chance.”
Oh, before I forget, must share a classic exchange from an hour or so ago in the dugout, before the last game down here at Disney, “Where Dreams Come True” (trademark). (And by the way, my dream is to be anywhere but here tomorrow).
A few of us are talking to Bobby Cox in the dugout and Andruw comes off the field during batting practice to get a drink of water.
“Play short today?” he asks Cox, the 1,000th or so time that Andruw has asked the manager about the possibility of the Gold Glove center fielder getting to play shortstop, where Andruw often takes ground balls in batting practice.
“Free agent year, I don’t think I should,” Cox says, laughing.
“[Bleep] free agent,” Jones answers, and spits out a mouthful of water. “It don’t mean nothing.”
Cox laughs and says, “That’s what I say. We’re on the same page, Andruw.”
And with that, I was just about on the floor, laughing so hard.
By the way, Andruw took batting practice wearing a jersey with “Dos Cinco” instead of his name above his No. 25. I’ll be stunned if he’s wearing it when they come back on the field for the game.
That won’t fly with Bobby, who doesn’t even let players wear their sunglasses on top of their hats when they’re taking batting practice. But for B.P., on the last day of spring in Florida, and with Andruw, the manager let it slide.
Roster decisions this weekend: The Braves are taking all 37 players left in camp to Atlanta for the Friday-Saturday games against unhinged manager Ozzie Guillen’s White Sox (I can kid about Guillen being a little wacko, because I’ve known him for a while since his coaching days with the Marlins. But some of the things that he says … wow. Hey, at least he’s honest. But wow.)
Where were we? Oh, the roster. Taking everyone north, and the final cuts will be made Friday or Saturday, Bobby said. He didn’t know which day he’d do it.
My gut feeling, barring any unforeseen developments, on the last spots: Pete Orr (over headed-to-the-DL Willy Aybar) and Chris Woodward as the backup infielders, and out-of-options Tyler Yates (unless he’s traded at the last minute) and Chad Paronto in the bully.
I think Lance Cormier’s going to get the last rotation spot over Kyle Davies, but only if Cormier’s arm is OK when he long-tosses today and tomorrow, but especially when he throws in the bullpen Saturday. That’ll be the real test.
Couple of injury updates: Ryan Langerhans has a bruised arm after getting hit by a pitch Wednesday, but he’ll be fine. Not playing today, but he took batting practice…. Mike Hampton keeps progressing, will accompany the Braves to Atlanta and Philly, pitch in sim-game conditions to hitters once in Philly, then return to Florida for an extended-spring game before starting a minor league rehab assignment. Still targeting early May for return, as early as first week of the month.
Most impressive springs: Among the young guys, Yunel Escobar and Martin Prado really opened eyes and let the Braves know by their performances that either is ready if needed this year.
If something were to happen to Chipper before Aybar (hand) is ready, I wouldn’t be shocked to see Escobar. Don’t think anything’s going to happen to Chipper, but just making a point _ they really were impressed by Escobar here.
The discs played most: These 10 did it for me this spring through 3,000 or so miles in the Hyundai Santa Fe SUV rental (which has a few coffee stains and a pleasant cigar aroma), and I’d recommend them to any with eclectic music tastes. Some very old, some very new, some somewhere between. All full-length CDs (none of that download-the-single crap for me, thanks. I’m a dinosaur). Oh, and Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” saved my life one night when I was dozing on drive back from Viera and put it in to jerk me back to alertness; but it was only time I played it down here, so didn’t make top 10:
Tom Waits “Orphans” (three-CD set)
Son Volt “The Search”
Centro-Matic “Fort Recovery”
Arcade Fire “Neon Bible”
Lucinda Williams “West”
Johnny Cash “Unearthed” (five-CD set)
Van Morrison “Astral Weeks” (does music get any better?)
The Dears “Gang of Losers”
The Birmingham Sound: The Soul of Neal Hemphill (compilation of incredible old soul music culled from the vaults of the great Southern studio owner/producer)
Elvis Presley “From Elvis in Memphis” (Kentucky Rain, In the Ghetto, etc)
Now take us out, brother Townes:
“PANCHO AND LEFTY” By Townes Van Zandt
Living on the road my friend,/Is gonna keep you free and clean
Now you wear your skin like iron,/Your breath as hard as kerosene.
You weren’t your mama’ss only boy,/But her favorite one it seems
She began to cry when you said goodbye,/And sank into your dreams.
Pancho was a bandit boy,/His horse was fast as polished steel
He wore his gun outside his pants/For all the honest world to feel.
Pancho met his match you know/On the deserts down in Mexico
Nobody heard his dying words,/Ah but that’s the way it goes.
All the federales say/They could have had him any day
They only let him slip away/Out of kindness, I suppose.
Lefty, he can’t sing the blues/All night long like he used to.
The dust that Pancho bit down south/Ended up in Lefty’s mouth
The day they laid poor Pancho low,/Lefty split for Ohio
Where he got the bread to go,/There ain’t nobody knows
The poets tell how Pancho fell,/And Lefty’s living in cheap hotels
The deserts quiet, Cleveland’s cold,/And so the story ends were told
Pancho needs your prayers it’s true,/But save a few for Lefty too
He only did what he had to do,/And now he’s growing old
Comments
By TennesseePaul
March 29, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
It’s been a great Spring DOB. Thanks for the updates and blogs. I’m looking forward to this season taking off and never stopping.
GO BRAVES!!
By Rodger
March 29, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
YES!!! Let’s, as they would sy, get ready to rumble!
By snowball's chance
March 29, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
Play Ball! I only have Astral Weeks but a few of those picks are on the way as we speak. Pancho and Lefty is my favorite song. I used to sing it to my kids when I put them to bed. There is a whole lot between the lines in that tune.
I’ve been checking the odds on the Braves winning the East.A couple of days ago It was 30 to 1. Today it is 9 to 1. It will be fun to watch them climb higher.
By ElbravoX
March 29, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this
No one is giving us a chance and I LOVE it. It is a 2 team race in the East and we are not included. Let’s show the experts wrong.
By journalist jimmy smith
March 29, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
that song about pancho and avery makes this journalist cry everytime.
By Brad in MT
March 29, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the blogs and information DOB…you do a great job and its great to be able to get so much information and discussion in one place. I cannot wait for the season to get started and I think we have a great team if everything works out!
By journalist jimmy smith
March 29, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this
this journalist wishes all braves players good toe health this season. go braves!
By snowball's chance
March 29, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this
DOB, Do you have a favorite ‘gar tune? I like listening to Ennio Morricone’s soundtracks to Eastwood’s spaghetti Westerns. Then there are the Sopranos soundtracks. You can never go wrong with Waits. If the stogie doesn’t drive the women away, Tom usually does.
By Art in Tenn
March 29, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the blog DOB!
Chad Paronto reminds me a little too much of KG… I know BC likes having a groundball guy for those sticky situations, but why not Cormier to the pen and Davies in the last spot. If Davies blows up, theres always Moylan or Boyer or even Devine or Lerew…
By Greg
March 29, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
“If”… The biggest word in spring training. I think the Braves look great, IF they stay healthy.
Hey, DOB, you have any love for the Old ’97s?
By 3trees
March 29, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this
Thanks for all the SP reporting/blogs, DOB. You guys are headed north as we’re headed south. Ain’t it always the case. Looks like an intersting year. Plenty of story lines to follow and play out. OK, fellars (that’s everyone), have fun, play with passion and let the chips fall where they may.
Still got to buy a new cap.
Go Braves!
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this
Greg, much love for the Old ’97s and also for Rhett Miller’s solo stuff.
Snowball’sChance, ain’t that the truth about the cigars and Waits driving ‘em away? I tell you what, there were some gorgeous women at the Waits show _ not many, but some _ and I’m thinking, OK, those are just about the most desirable females on the planet. Because if they’re Waits fans, gotta be cool.
OK, gotta write a story about Boog Sciambi, the new broadcaster. You guys like what you’ve heard of him so far, right?
By The Stranger
March 29, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this
That 20th loss Frenchy hung on the Mets yesterday tied the franchise record for spring training futility. It’s happened twice before: in 2004 when NY finished 4th in the East; and in ‘95 when they finished 6 games below .500, and 2nd in the East, just below the world champion Braves.
By Micah
March 29, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this
For me, Pancho and Lefty is the highlight when seeing Willie these days. I realize its a Townes tune but I never got to see the MAN so I feel it can’t get any closer with Willie:) Speakin of which, shouldn’t Willie be taking you out of Florida with Whiskey River? Dont let her memory torture me….(whistle)
be safe DOB, if your flyin don’t pull a M. Vick at the airport and if you are drivin then keep the tunes loud:)
Go Braves!
By Art in Tenn
March 29, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this
JS is fine as a broadcaster, but what was the problem with BR?
By dougp
March 29, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this
Has Latwan sent one of his mommas pies down this spring. One is needed for opening day, nothing calms the nerves better than a good slice of some home made pie. I have a saying here at work, ‘I ain’t afraid of no pie’.
Good times, lets all raise our pie forks and beverage glasses and toast this years Braves.
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this
Wouldn’t you know, Francoeur draws his first walk of the spring on “first pitch day.” (It’s not uncommon for a LOT of guys to swing at first pitches on the last day of spring training before breaking camp, since everyone’s eager to get on the charter and get home.)
He just drew a second-inning walk
By Robert
March 29, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this
“And everybody says “if.” As in, “If we can get a HALFWAY competent manager”
550 and change until hope will be reborn in Atlanta
Til then - two more seasons of agonizng tease
By Robert
March 29, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this
“I know BC likes having a groundball guy for those sticky situations”
BC uses ground ball guys like he uses double play guys - as rally killing pinch hitters
By N8
March 29, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
DOB
The more I read about Andruw and hear of his love for Bobby, I’m beginning to wonder if the odds are in favor of keeping him around.
I’m still not convinced that it’s the RIGHT move, with a limited payroll.
But for instance, if the Braves were to backload the hell out of the contract (again, good for TODAY, but not so for “tomorrow”), basically they could stay “status quo” with payroll for now, and then in a couple of years when Hampton, and Chipper’s contracts are up, and the eventual retirement of Smoltz, it could make sense.
Like I said, I’m just still not convinced that spending upwards of close to 25 percent of your payroll on one player is the right thing to do.
But it sure seems that he would prefer to stay in Atlanta. I wonder how much, Bobby possibly being done after next year, will play into it as well?
Just a thought.
By krath
March 29, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
DOB…. about Sciambi…. I like the guy a lot. Great voice. Nice delivery. Doesn’t over/understate the game, players or situations.
Don’t think he’s going to take on a “part of the family” kinda thing in my household like Skip and Pete, but he’s definitely a pro that I’ll be comfortable listening to. I couldn’t say that about Bob Rathbun and as much as I like Skip….. Chip kinda grinds on me.
Oh yeah…. I can live with Simpson as the color man to.
By Oregon_Braves
March 29, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this
If you post at the end of a blog and no one reads it, is it really there?
Let me repeat, please, that I know it doesn’t matter about NY and LA bias in the sports media. It is a business and in their perfect world, for ratings sake, the Dodgers would play the Yankees in the World Series every year. All that really matters is what happens on the field. The rest will sort itself out. That being said, one fact still does remain. Dayn Perry is a douchebag.
By MBATL
March 29, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
DOB, echoing everyone else’s appreciation for your keeping this blog alive during the offseason. Great work! You must be ready to sleep in your own bed for a change.
As I said the other day, I thought Sciambi was very good. Seemed like a few times Simpson was waiting for him to jump in and it didn’t happen - but a few awkward moments are to be expected for a new combo. All-in-all, quite good.
I see that Frenchy took a walk today - you’ve got your next Sunday Edition headline.
By CJ
March 29, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this
DOB, Just wanted to say thanks for the blogs and all the insight you give on the Braves. I’m a lifelong Brave fan but I live in Arizona. Kind of hard to get the scoop on the boys when you live this far away. You’re about all I got, so keep it up!
Any concerns about gonzo? Didnt have the greatest spring.
By Brad in MT
March 29, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this
So far I think that Sciambi seems pretty good. He doesn’t distract from the game and does a good job. He’s not nearly as comfortable as Skip and Pete, but I can live with him. Honestly, the only Braves announcer I don’t like is Chip, but unfortunately TBS loves him so we will have to put up with a lot of him.
By BHP
March 29, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this
DOB, I like Boog so far. I first heard him on the Dan Lebatard show a few years ago and he is hilarious. They just talked about getting fat, eating at Shula’s, and drinking. He’s a hell of alot better than Rathbun. That guy sucked.
By FLBRAVESFAN
March 29, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this
Ah for the 1000th time, Mr. O’Brien has told us how much he dislikes Disney World. Perhaps the Atlanta Journal Constitution could arrange it for him not to have to endure this torture in future springs. This is damned baseball blog not a travel column.
By Lew
March 29, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
Art in Tenn-Maybe they’re going with Cormier because of the 1.15 ERA this spring with 1 BB and 13K in 15 IP as opposed to Davies 9BB and 11K in 19IP (including 3 BB to start a game where he ewas handed a 5-0 lead in the first). Add to that the fact that late last season Cormier showed much improvement while Davies got shelled and you should have your question answered. Why put Cormier in the pen when it is already overloaded and Davies has much to gain by going to Richmond? Makes much more sense to do it as the Braves apparently are.
By Lil' Chopper
March 29, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
It looks like Jimmy Rollins is at it again. He just keeps going on about his the Phillies are going to win the division. Then ESPN makes out this year’s budding rivalry between the Mutz and Phillies as something akin to the Red Sox - Yankees. Excuse me while I puke. The Phillies haven’t done anything in over a decade (13 years to be exact) and now all of a sudden they are talking like this is their division to loose…
I can’t wait to start the season off in Philly. Nothing like punching those losers right in the mouth by sweeping them right off the bat to remind them that you actually have to play the season out before you are annointed division champ. They need to recognize that the little team from down south (the one they have been looking up at in the standings for the past decade or so) is still coming to play.
The Phillies won’t even make the playoff’s this year. How do I know, becaue they are the still the Phillies and WE are still the proud ATLANTA BRAVES. The Mutz won’t make the playoffs either, they may end up scoring 800+ runs, but their weak pitching staff will give up at least that many. It’s time to take care of these clowns and get to the business of winning the 2007 World Series.
Go Braves!!!
Let’s get this season started, I can’t wait stick it to those chumps up north!
By Lew
March 29, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
Krath-How you doin’ Dude? Still rockin? Got into some Asphalt Ballet and The Cult’s Electric today. Definitely beats some of the back and forth here, lately.
By Wayne in UT
March 29, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
Oregon Braves: Agreed on Perry. And no, if you post at the end of the blog, some of us still read them. I like to go back and see what was happening just before the new blog hits.
On a couple of broadcasts on XM, I heard the guys talking about Paronto adding a pitch or two and becoming more of a strikeout man than in the past. Will he ever outlive the “groundball pitcher” handle?
By Brian
March 29, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
Hey Dave… seeing as how you are a baseball and a music fanatic, might I suggest you get rid of the CDs and get XM Radio? You can hear all the MLB games live and hear pretty much any music you want. That’s my plug for the day.
Anyway, I would really like to see Cormier in the rotation, Davies frightens me. I remember watching him major league debut against Boston on TV. I would classify it as more lucky than good. There has been a lot of talk about his potential, but I have never really seen it. But that’s just me as an outsider looking in.
Thanks for the updates!
By Chad
March 29, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
DOB
Great taste in traveling music! The only missing is a little Van Halen for the times when you are a little tired. You gotta have some “Runnin With The Devil” and “Ain’t Talkin Bout Love.” I am really excited about the season for the first time in a few years. But I hope that management doesn’t keep cutting the payroll after this year. We don’t have to spend like that Yanks but we need to keep our good players!
By Wayne in UT
March 29, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this
pancho and avery…..I love it!
By jd
March 29, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this
van zandt and zevon on the last 2 days…DOB, you are in mid-season form…thanks for the blog-you’re the best
By Mike
March 29, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
Don’t know if anyone saw this earlier.
Francoeur is tops among Baseball Prospectus’ Breakout hitters!
You guys should take a look at some of the other players he beat out.
By Fred from CT
March 29, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
It makes more sense to start cormier if healthy and if he isn’t effective then call up davies.
By Lew
March 29, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
FLBraves Fan-Come on. As a Floridan (like I was for 16 years), how many times have you made the Disney pilgrimage? Once, like all other Floridians? The place is an overpriced tedious trek through Disney’s idea of making money. A perfect example of The American Dream-find a gimmick and exploit everyone and everything that comes in contact with it. Of course, children enjoy it. But then again, they don’t care how long you had to work to afford it. Why do you defend Disney? They probably are responsible for property tax increases everywhere in Florida. Definitely in Orlando.
By Chop Chop
March 29, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
Chad, “Panama” would be my choice for a drive to uplift the spirits. In order to get the full experience of that, DOB would need one of his Waits’ gals along for the ride, I presume.
By KC
March 29, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
DOB: What happened with Hudson in the 4th??
Sciambi’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with him. I just think there were better options… namely, any of the Braves existing announcers.
I realize Skip and Pete are getting old, so they may not have wanted to go in that direction, but Chip Caray would have been a better choice. At least that way you keep a little generational Braves tradition… plus, Chip is a very good commentator.
I’m glad they hired Joe Simpson. Good move there. But I’m still planning to turn down the tv and turn up the radio this season.
I’m just sad that I won’t get to hear the Skip Caray/Joe Simpson combination anymore. They were very, very good together. There was a chemistry there that you don’t often find, and they were damn fun to listen to. What a shame.
Again, Sciambi is fine… I just would have prefered one of the Carays.
By LeTwan Anthony
March 29, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
dougp, LeTwan will ask Mama to go right to work on some pies for the Braves. With the arrival of Wicky, Mama has been reluctant to send many pies to the team. But Mama makes the best pies in the world and Mama is gonna get busy for Opening Day.
LeTwan agrees with the bloggers that are bragging on DOB, and LeTwan points out that DOB not only kept the blog going in the winter months, DOB produced an award-winning blog during the off-season! DOB received a Best of Cox award just like the ones Cynthia Tucker and Mike Luckovich received and now Mama is going to bake DOB a pie. Mama looked at that picture of DOB and said something like, “rhubarb pie” but LeTwan thinks Mama was kidding.
Mama was talking baseball with LeTwan this morning and Mama thinks there will be one surprise to make the team - not sure who - Mama would not tell LeTwan.
LeTwan looks forward to blogging some more this year. Where is RobertJITB? Isn’t it time for a Chipper joke?
Last thing, bloggers may soon be able to buy pies from LeTwan and Mama’s new pie shop. This is the way that Famous Amos became Famous Amous - except Famous Amous did it with cookies.
By Oregon_Braves
March 29, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this
Lew - Electric is good, but it ain’t no Sonic Temple.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
March 29, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this
By journalist jimmy smith
March 29, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
that song about pancho and avery makes this journalist cry everytime
I think it’s due to the image of poor old Lefty “livin’ in cheap hotels,” portayed so sadly, yet impeccably, by the Hag, old and worn out, sitting on a bed in a small, run down hotel room.
By caveman22
March 29, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this
DOB a new day and a new blog, wonder what kind of trouble I’m going to get into today.. * about AJ* do you think he would take anything less than 75-80% to stay here?? I sit about 3 rows away from the visitor’s on-deck circle at Turner and the looks and head shakes they give when AJ turns another hit into an out are priceless. That article the other day about Griffey being the greatest CF of his generation was off base as far as I’m concerned. Yeah I’m biased but AJ plays every game every year since he was born and their is no was Griffey ranks ahead of him except in HR’s and that will change soon.
OK OK LET’S HERE FROM THE PEANUT GALLERY
By krath
March 29, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this
Hiya Lew, doing great here. Not rockin’ too much except between work and home, but I can still tap my foot sometimes. Could be a slow summer rockin’ wise. The only for sure plans I have this summer are to go home after work, fireup the grill, sip on a cold one, then settle in and watch the Bravos!
Hey… that sounds a lot like most of my summers!
I got into The Cult around ‘90 even though they had been around a few years. I suppose Sonic Temple caught my ear. Something about Ian Astbury’s voice I found intriguing. I think what I liked about his voice was that after the 80’s when all you heard were guys singing like they had no testicles here comes this “angst ridden, someone just shot me in the foot” voice that was powerful, yet bluesy….. in a British sort of way. lol
By Lew
March 29, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this
Brian-I’ve got XM and think it’s great. However, if you have a huge CD collection, like David does (also myself and a number of others), you would realize that the collections are irreplaceable. I seriously think our collections are as large, if not larger than the individual stations on XM. I listen to the Boneyard to find a few things I don’t have, but I already own 95% of what they play. There’s just no substitute for the wall of music. I’m glad though, that XM is now carrying SEC football. I miss my Dawgs.
By Josh
March 29, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this
Please tell Andruw to remember that whole “free agent doesn’t mean anything” idea @ seasons end please. And I like Poncho and Lefty but I prefer the Willy Nelson/Merle Haggard version
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this
Soriano just gave up a two-run homer by Trot Nixon in the fifth, Indians up 5-0. First-pitch homer, first homer of the spring for Trot.
Dave Delucci followed with a double. Still just one out.
Stop the game and take it north, Braves.
Hudson went four innings, gave up three runs (all in the fourth) on four hits.
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this
Oh, and Braves don’t have a hit after four innings
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this
Oh my. Soriano just gave up a two-run homer by Casey Blake.
Four runs, two homers, two outs
By N8
March 29, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this
I’m not gonna start my “doom and gloom”…..yet, because I realize it’s STILL spring training, and players are excited to go “north”.
But I’m not neccesarily excited about Hudson OR Soriano’s performance today.
So, DOB, puleeeez give me some BS story about Bobby telling these guys to “not let them see your good stuff, since we’ll be seeing them in the WS!”
LOL!
By MBATL
March 29, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this
KC, I don’t know, but I would guess that Skip and Pete are getting expensive, too. That may have played a role in the decision.
I think it’s good to bring some new blood in every, oh, 20 years or so. And I’d take Helen Keller over Chip Carey… but that’s just me.
By Lew
March 29, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
UGA 6 is retiring after this season. Let’s hope Number 7 is a lucky number for us. I’m tired of losing to Gators.
By michael of b'ham
March 29, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
Sure am glad Hudson and Soriano are getting this out of their systems now.
By Coach
March 29, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this
Looks like Smoltz and Huddy are going to let Wickman off the hook for those big screen TV’s. To the Ted we go , bust out the giant can of Whup a.s.s and lets git’er done.
By dougp
March 29, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this
Thanks, now it’s baseball season.
By krath
March 29, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this
Wow….. Soriano has given up 4 including two HR’s and the inning isn’t over yet! Is there any correlation between SOME of the pitchers getting lit up the last couple of days and the fact that as camp winds down…. they are facing something that looks more like the oppositions opening day lineups?
So is the staff as good as advertised? Guess we’ll find out next week when the pretenders are back in the minors and the big boys are starting and playing the whole game.
By rammerjammer
March 29, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
This is a good game to get out of our system…everyone stinks!
By Greg in TN
March 29, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
Afternoon ladies and gents…
Thanks for keeping me sane in our winter of discontent, DOB. I believe the ship is righted and we are ready to pull the wraps off of the season on Monday at Citizens Bank Park.
To borrow a phrase from the esteemed JJS, chemistry is not to be trifled with. In any sport, a team that gets along with each other and looks out for each other will be more formidable than a team with no chemistry. Sure, talent has a major say in all of this, but I’ve seen a lot of talented teams come up way short at the end of 162 games because of a cancer or two in the clubhouse.
Wayne in UT Your post at 10:34 this morning in the last blog was outstanding. Thank you for hitting the bullseye on that post and capturing the sentiment of many of the denizens of the Braves/MIB community.
There looks to be a bit of a bump in the road to Philly today at the Dark Star. Hudson went 4 innings, surrendered 2 earned runs and 3 hits. Soriano has followed with 4 earned runs off of 2 homers in an inning of work. Fausto Carmona looks to be light’s out to this point for Cleveland.
By Lew
March 29, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this
Oregon Braves-You won’t get an argument from me. I have Sonic Temple in the collection as well, but had listened to it recently. I like Electric, though. Real raw and powerful. I particularly like L’il Devil, Contrary Man and Outlaw. There isn’t much by the Cult I don’t like. Wish I had seen them in concert.
By dougp
March 29, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this
Lew, that’s good news about SEC. That was the only drawback I have with XM, I have it for the Braves games, but SEC football was on Sirius. Anyways, thanks for making my day I can now justify that $12.95 a month a little more, if SEC football is now included. Although, I have to admit to being an Auburn fan, anyways War Eagle and good luck to the Dawgs until they play Auburn next year. Maybe they can play Auburn twice next year once in the regular season and then get another taste in the Championship game.
By tmoney in ben hill
March 29, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
maybe its the same thing for pitchers….throw all fastballs or something….
By Wilkun
March 29, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
Yo DOB,
I know Bobby loves his “groundball guy,” but was wondering about Moylan’s chances of some PT this year. He’s been pretty solid all spring too, hasn’t he?
By lifelongbravesfan
March 29, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
are you guys gonna play nice today??
By KC
March 29, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this
DOB: What seemed to be the problem in the 4th for Hudson as best as you could tell?
Was he experimenting, or just got out of whack??
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this
Had to go downstairs to talk to Hudson, so I missed the last out in the fifth, but apparently Soriano got it without giving up another homer. That’s good.
But seriously … hey, Zumaya gave up two homers in one inning two nights ago, right? I mean, I just don’t put too much stock in anything in spring, good or bad. Soriano’s been lights-out almost every time out. He’s ready.
By Lew
March 29, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
DougP-I don’t know why, but losing to Auburn (which we do half the time) doesn’t hurt as much as losing to the Gators. Still not fun, but not quite as bad. God I hate the Gators. I sure hope they don’t win the Final Four again. I don’t think I could take two BB championships and one in football in the course of a year. It just isn’t right and defies the laws of Nature. They’re insufferable enough as it is.
By Boo-who
March 29, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
DOB I always read the blog - first time writing in. I think the Braves look great this spring - I saw a post in the Vent by a Mets fan about how irrelevant spring training records are - funny since they have the worst record- probably a different story if they won all their games. I love your writing - my only beef is your disdain for all things Disney. My family goes down to spring training every year and we love it at WW of Sports (we do have a 4 year old who loves Mickey). It’s beautiful there - just think of it when you are covering the Braves in Philly when it is 50 degrees and rainy!
By caveman22
March 29, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
LEW Wow, your a Dawg fan, maybe we have common ground after all. I am a proud member of UGA class of 19never-never. It almost makes me want to reach out and “bond” with you. OK maybe not but FOR REAL your artwork is very good. You know I might be opinionated and stuff but good art is good art. How much for the Frenchy pic??
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
The Braves have been no-hit through six innings.
As I said in the lead, they were read to take this thing north. They waited a few hours too long.
By Bert
March 29, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
The problem I see with the roster is that better players are being left off. If Prado and or Escobar have more upside than Woodward and or Orr then the better player should make the roster. Cormier has certainly beaten out Davies but is Redman better than Davies. As far as the bullpen, the top end looks fantastic but the lower third is questionable. Will BC automatically place Hampton in the rotation at the expense of losing games or waring out the bullpen? Shouldn’t Hampton come out of the Pen until he builds up his arm strength much like Smoltz did? Are Yates and Paranto better than Boyer and Moylan or the others sent to Richmond ? There certainly appears to be a substantial amount of talent in AAA that is major league ready. Hopefully BC’s loayalty doesn’t cloud his judgment at the expense of wins. The 2007 Braves have the strength to win it all if the right pieces make up the roster.
By Thrillhouse44
March 29, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
I’m listening to the Dan Patrick show and Keith Olberman just picked the Braves over the Tigers in the World Series.
Go Braves!
By Thrillhouse44
March 29, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
I don’t know what’s up with KO today, but he also picked Francouer to win MVP and Smoltzie to take the Cy Young.
By FLBRAVESFAN
March 29, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
Lew - You forgot to blame the Disney organization for Iraq, world hunger and the re-emergence of polio in third world countries. You are entitled to your opinion, there just happen to be several million people who disagree with you including this Floridian (50 years)who has enjoyed the various aspects of the complex including the Braves well over 100 times. Don’t be so bitter over someone’s else’s success.
By Patrick
March 29, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this
What did Hudson say DOB??
By Epinephrine
March 29, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
DOB-what did Hudson have to say?
At this point, do you think they even care?
By Renegator
March 29, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
DOB,
What is your blog schedule once the seasons starts? This is my first spring on the Braves/MIB blog and I have to assume you won’t be posting one everyday during the regular season.
On another note, I think that the Braves batting averages now (end of spring training) will be about what the hit in the regular season this year. Their averages seem to be about what they ended up at last year - except for maybe Chipper’s. I have serious concerns about Thorman and K. Johnson’s ability to hit…
I know, I know - everyone is going to tell me that you can’t take ST numbers at face value - but neither of them has hit worth a damn in previous regular season either…
By michael of b'ham
March 29, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this
did they pack the bats already?
By Shaun
March 29, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
How’s this for bold?
Predictions:
AL East: Boston AL Central: Cleveland AL West: Oakland AL Wild Card: Minnesota
NL East: Philadelphia NL Central: St. Louis NL West: Los Angeles NL Wild Card: Atlanta
World Series: Oakland over Atlanta
By MBATL
March 29, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this
Just looking at the numbers, not the game, but I’m glad to see Huddie strike out 4 in 4 innings, give up 6 ground-outs vs. 2 fly-outs. Just 3 hits, none for extra bases (one unearned run - an error by AJ; how often is that gonna happen?).
It’s hard to emphasize the postive without acknowledging the negative, but it sounds to me like Hudson’s got pretty good stuff, which is the main thing.
(I’ll have to think a little to explain Soriano’s day, but he’s been absolutely overpowering all spring, so … let’s just focus on that).
By Lew
March 29, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this
Well Thank You Caveman. That was quite a compliment. Anyone who is a Dawgs fan can’t be all bad. The Frenchy pic is part of my colection, but for a pencil portrait of that size (11x14), would probably run about $150. In oil it goes up to about $300. You should pay closer attention to the blog, Dude. I gave three pieces awy at the start of Spring Training (BBFan, I’ll mail it this week, for sure). SSI Scribe and Tennesse Paul won pictures of Andruw and Smoltz just by emailing me first when I offered. BB Fan came in a little later, but what the hell. I’m really not such a bad guy.
By Wayne in UT
March 29, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
ABTG (Anybody but the Gators!)
By Renegator
March 29, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew
Go Gators!!!
By Wayne in UT
March 29, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
ABTG (Anybody but the Gators!)
By David O'Brien
March 29, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
Michael, how’d you know I was going to use that as my lead?
By TheSouthernJackAss
March 29, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Un..be..liev..a..ble!!!…
By Braves20
March 29, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
DOB: Any chance at all, the Braves will dump Wilson? He is a strikeout machine. Averaged one for every three at-bats last year. Surely one of our right handed batters could learn first base. Bryan Pena is playing there as we speak.
By Renegator
March 29, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew
Go Gators!!!
By Glass Half Full
March 29, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
Predictions: NL East: Braves, Mets, Phillies, Marlins, & Nats. NL Central: Cubs, Cards, Brewers, Astros, Pirates, Reds NL West: Dodgers (Braves west), Giants, Padres, Diamondbacks, Rockies. Wild Card: Mets
Al East: Yanks, Sox, Toronto, Baltimore, Tampa Bay AL Central: Detroit, Twins, White Sox, Cleveland, Kansas City AL West: Angels, A’s, Rangers, Mariners.
Wild Card: Twins
NLCS: Braves and Mets ALCS: Tigers and Twins
World Series: Braves over Twins
By 22oz
March 29, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
Not only did Keith Olberman pick the Braves to win it all, he picked Smoltz for the Cy Young and Francoeur to win the MVP. And Dan Patrick and Peter Gammons had the Braves as the Wild Card, with the Mets on top.
By Adam
March 29, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
Lew,
Being the best is a hard job but somebody has to do it!!
By Renegator
March 29, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew,
Go Gators!!!
Sorry if this shows up twice but my computer crapped out mid post.
By Lew
March 29, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
Rene-That’s OK. Wayne in UT posted twice also. His cancels out the Gators.
By Lee
March 29, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
Is it too late to trade for someone who can hit the freaking ball?
By caveman22
March 29, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
renegator Just as soon as my Dawgs actually beat you at something I will have a response to you post. Until then: G-E-O-R-G-I-A (home side of field) (pause) B-U-L-L-D-A-W-G-S (visitors side)
GOOOOOOO DAWGS SIC’EM WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF
By michael of b'ham
March 29, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
DOB, that was a gimmie. I’d expect higher standards from you. however, it is get-away-day. so what the heck. it’s only ST!
wait…woo-hoo!! a hit!!!
By ElbravoX
March 29, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Are the Braves on TV Opening Day? How sad is this TV thing? Very, I say.
By Shaun
March 29, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Not only did Keith Olberman pick the Braves to win it all, he picked Smoltz for the Cy Young and Francoeur to win the MVP. And Dan Patrick and Peter Gammons had the Braves as the Wild Card, with the Mets on top.
Where are all the fans that saying Olberman is a Braves apologist? See how ridiculous it sounds when a national media personality actually agrees with you?
(Sorry, don’t mean to make to much of this but I just think it’s ridiculous to scream bias when it’s quite obvious most people do it only when people disagree with their biases.)
By Lew
March 29, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Now Now-We all know the only good Gator is in chili.
By Glass Half Full
March 29, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
I think McCann would win an MVP award before Francoeur would.
By Yars
March 29, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
DOB………Sciambi is good, but I was a little shocked when it was announced. Meaning, Bob Rathbun I think was a really good announcer. I enjoyed the Rathbun/Jeff Torborg team. I miss the days of Turner South when Chip & Joe were teamed up. They both knew the game was regional and they could be very funny and laid back for us old school Braves fans from down South, who got Chip’s humor.
By Wayne in UT
March 29, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
Lew: It’s like I tell my mom, my straight republican vote always crosses off her democratic vote.
:-)
ABTG!!
Like in the NFL, my two favorite teams are the 49ers and whoever is playing the Cowboys.
By Shaun
March 29, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Braves20,
Craig Wilson is also a .265 AVG/.354 OBP/.480 SLG career hitter who can play firstbase, corner outfield and be an emergency catcher.
By Yars
March 29, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Regarding my last post, Chip = Skip.
By Phil in Alabam
March 29, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
DOB - As a big J.R. Cash fan, I like to see The Man on your list as always, but I have to say this time I’m most happy to see your “Birmingham Sound” inclusion. That is an excellent collection. (I think the last track is my favorite driving song on there actually.)
I actually got to hear Roscoe Robinson and Soul Jackson - two of the guys on that compilation - play shows in Chicago and here in B’ham. I write for a paper in town, so I did a big feature on those two guys and Hemphill’s studio, as well as the guy that put the album together - I’ll have to send you a copy if you’d like.
Well, as a longtime reader/infrequent poster, I’m glad to see order restored today on the site (if not on the field - yikes). But looking forward to gettin’ it started.
As for those final roster spots, I’d sure like to see Orr and Prado get the calls. It’s just too bad we picked up Woodward. Maybe a last-second trade will clear up space. As for the bullpen, I’ll take just about who’s last name is not Acosta. It’s a deep ‘pen finally.
See yall at the home opener. Six dollar seats are the best.
By geauxbraves2000
March 29, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Is it just me, or if the kids (not Chipper, Andruw et al), if it weren’t for them the Braves would not be near the Spring Training wins that they have. I’ve not kept an eagle eye on all of the stats, but it seems the “regulars” aren’t doing anything offensively.
Geaux Braves!!
By Renegator
March 29, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
I think the Dogs would have a chance (in football - no one really cares about SEC basketball) if they got rid of Richt. He just can’t git-r-done. Until then “It’s great…to be… a Florida Gator!
By TennesseePaul
March 29, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Payne: Again you never read the post all the way, or else your blinders are on to tight. Normalizing the numbers will smooth over the issues you seek to inject. So I’m not looking at the AVG the player puts up, I’m look at the frequency of change in equavilant samplings to determine a streaky vs consistant hitter. A consistant hitter’s frequency of change should stay within the first standard diviation of normalized data. The amplitude should not be too great. A streaky hitter will stray outside of the first diviation, creating a larger amplitude in his normalized data. AJ fits that discription. Pujols fits the consistancy discription.
By Art in Tenn
March 29, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
Lew-
How many guys in the past have been spring training dynamos? OK, Cormier has been great in spring training. He wasnt that great as a starter last year. If they do go with Cormier, obviously I will be rooting for him as hard as anyone else. I just have a bad feeling about Paronto…
By LadyBravesFan
March 29, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
Thanks DOB, I feel like I am at the game during your spring season reports.
By Braves20
March 29, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Shaun the numbers guy - actually Wilson is .333 hitter - one strikeout per three at bats career. And please - the references to the positions he can play. He is a bigger defensive liability than Diaz. This ain’t roto ball that starts up Monday.
By caveman22
March 29, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
I will say one thing , the women at both UGA and UF are smokin’ hot!!
It’s just a matter of class and brains and at UGA they go both, the only thing UF has got is silicone and tans………dangit UF wins there too!!
By Shaun
March 29, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
I understand. I’m just saying that only looking at a month’s worth of plate appearance may not be meaningful enough to determine much of a deviation.
What’s the time frame to determine streakiness? Why not look at every x number of plate appearances? Why not look at every week? Why not look at every three months?
Again, not trying to refute your argument. Just trying to bring up problematic things that make it hard to determine whether a hitter truly is streaky.
Like I said, I’m not totally convinced either way on the subject. Just looking at it on a game-by-game basis, I just don’t seem to notice any significant streak patterns.
By Fred from CT
March 29, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
art in tenn I agree with you about paronto I think he is gonna be a problem. I am hoping he doesn’t make the team. I could see bobby going to him too much. Hope I am wrong.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
March 29, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
DOB
I’ve envied you for 6 weeks: sitting in the Florida Sun, talkin’ baseball with America’s team, cigars, Isbell show, living the life. I would have loved to have been in your shoes then.
Now I have to say, I could think of a million people that I would rather be, in the next few hours, instead of you: Getting caught up in the migration of nothing but Gator fans headed north, to the same destination as you. Man I bet it sux to be you tonight. I sure hope your on a private jet or something =-))
By Wayne in UT
March 29, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
Art in Tenn and Fred in CT: I think you guys might be worried too much about Paronto. I think he will be a 6th inning (once in a while 7th inning) guy some nights. He has looked real good this spring so far. (did he lose it today or something??)
Shaun & TennPaul: I have the answer. Ask me and I will tell you if the player is a streaky player. That will solve it all for you guys. ex. Yes, Kobe is streaky.
By Miss Manners
March 29, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Is what we are seeing from caveman a true representation of the grammatical/writing skills of the UGA graudate?
Caveman, your about as sharp as their are with you’re grammar and punctuation. Remember, you read it hear.
By jake
March 29, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this
Centro Matic, Son Volt, but no DBT?
By ncscoots
March 29, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
TPaul, ah yes, those pesky outliers, LOL! Course, many people say I’m more than one standard deviation off myself, so I can’t comment knowledgeably on