Braves

By Thrillhouse44

April 5, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Who wouldn’t want to be Brian McCann? Let him know if he wants to switch places with Ghostface Thrilla, I can arrange that. I’m glad he’s pulling through right now. Imagine how tough our team will be once the Joneses hit their stride!

By ljg

April 5, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Let me be the first to say - I love, love McCann!! He is a stud! And he has yet to develop a cocky persona which is nice to see. I am hoping that he is our next Dale Murphy - a fantastic player while remaining a true class act - so far it seems to be the case! Go Bravos!!!

By Goonie

April 5, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this

McCann is the best hitting catcher in the majors. A lot of people are all sweating Mauer, but McCann is clearly the better all-around hitter.

By sri

April 5, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Wow!! what a start to the season… It sure is going to be one hell of a season.. looks like the Mets pitching is not as bad as we thought.. GO BRAVES!!! we still win by 2 games..

By Ky in Idaho

April 5, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

The bullpen and starting pitching is and will be the key to continued success this season. Without the $$ pitching, we don’t have a chance to tie and win these ball games.

McCann for 08.

By Carolina Lady

April 5, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

That kid just makes you want to grin ear-to-ear!

(FBG, I know you’re lovin’ this!) :-)))

By Ron Roberts

April 5, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Things are looking way up for the Braves if/when you can count on Smoltz and Hudson to do what they’ve done for us. My lone concern is Mike Gonzalez, frankly. We saw him sputter a bit in the spring, and the official line was he was working on some things, then. Well, it’s the real deal now, and we need him coming in and holding down the fort, and I know it’s early, but 3 walks, 3 hits in 2 innings isn’t what we shipped our 30+ homer first baseman for.

On the good side, Thorman’s provided more at the plate in one pinch-hit than LaRoche has in three complete games for the Bucs. I know he’ll do fine for ‘em, but so far, we aren’t suffering from his loss.

By Sir Stealth

April 5, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

It’s almost more encouraging that the Braves took the first two from the Phils with the offense taking the first 2/3 of the game off. Hopefully they’ll come out and explode today from the get go. Maybe Langy will look better since its a day game. I don’t think today’s game will be close - a blowout for either team from the beginning. Since I have confidence in Chuck James, I think Braves fans will be smiling again.

By Lew

April 5, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Less than $6mil a year average for 7 years-worst case scenario. That wouldn’t even purchase Andruw’s shoes for that time period. What a deal.

By MBATL

April 5, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

DOB, great article.

Do you know if Bobby has picked the starter to get Pena instead of McCann this year, or if there will be such an arrangement? I’m really hoping that Brian will play all the Mets games before Bobby starts resting him every 5 games or so. Any idea?

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

DOBsorry I wasn’t around to drop the smack down on that fool who was dissing you. I was in Time-Out for being bad at work. I need to know if their is an OFFICIAL MeCann’s Can’s outfit and what sizes they come in.

What happened to our Phillie Phanatic on this blog??

By bsj

April 5, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Nothing but superlatives to say about McCann. And nobody even mentioned his defensive work. We’ll overlook the error last night. That will not be the norm. How crushing have these first two games been for the Phillies? These two losses are the kind that can set you back a month. And the Phils definitely needed a better start if they want to hang around in the East.

DOB, this is my first blog posting, though I’ve read the blogs for a while now. I’m impressed with your varied musical tastes, and I’d have to say I’m with you 90 percent of the time. But I don’t recall any mention of Mark Knopfler. There are very few guitarists who can conjer a mood like Knopfler. “Speedway at Nazereth” is a prime example. Quirky songwriting, but he knows how to make it work.

By True Braves Fan

April 5, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

WHAT GENIUS’S BOBBY COX AND JOHN S. ARE!!!! Bobby flips the batting order so that JF doubles and is on base when McCann homers…and John S. trades LaRoche so that Thorman will be in the lineup to hit the game winning home run. It has the makings of a great season…

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Poster this at the end of the last blog:

Hey, my prediction yesterday was close. Hudson would go six strong (he went seven) Soriano, Gonzo, and Wickman would slam the door (Gonzo got a little wild, but otherwise accurate), and the BRaves would win 4-2 (they won 3-2).

Not bad!

Today? Chucky goes seven, McBride, Paronto, and Soriano send us home smiling, ‘cause the Braves break out the whoppin’ sticks and sweep their way to a big win:

Braves 6 Phillies 2

I say McBride and Paronto because Wickman and Gonzo have worked both of the first two games. Soriano has also, but he is the closer of the future in my view and will still work.

Let’s Go Braves!

By KC

April 5, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

sri: “looks like the Mets pitching is not as bad as we thought”

As I mentioned in the previous blog… the Mets pitching isn’t bad, it’s just thin.

You never know what’s going to happen, but if you look at (recent) past performance… you can’t expect ElDuque to pitch anywhere near this well over a full season.

Maine, I suspect, will be good, but not great. And their 4th starter, Oliver Perez, posted an ERA around 6.50 last year.

Like I said… you never know what’s going to happen. Their rotation could overachieve. But I think if you’re wagering, you have to bet on nothing better than a quite average Mets rotation. No better.

Their bullpen is still strong for the late innings, but doesn’t have the same depth after losing 3 significant pieces over the winter.

With their offense… they’ve got just enough pitching to win a lot of games. However, the Braves offense is almost as good (with Jose Reyes being the only significant difference between the two lineups), and Atlanta’s pitching is clearly better. It may not be “clear” through the first 2-3 games, but it will become evident over the course of the season.

I believe the Braves will finish 1st or 2nd (definitely top 3 at the very least) in team ERA this year. I think the Mets will finish middle of the pack in that category when all is said and done.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 5, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Even his outs are being hit hard right now. And anybody who can belly up and concentrate enough to catch a throw and hold on with Ryan Howard bearing down on ya is a true gamer in my opinion.

By JohninJax

April 5, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Ditto Goonie! I love McCann! He is CLASS ACT!

By ncscoots

April 5, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

DOB hit it on the head in his very second sentence. With the MLB landscape littered with the career corpses of busted-out-phenoms and one-year-wonders, one should not so quickly proclaim the kid as the reincarnation of Bill Dickey. Logically. But, geez, every time you look around, he’s putting another layer of credibility on just such a proclamation. And I mean not just a thin veneer, either, that sucker is SLATHERING it on. Plus he’s just a heck of lot of fun to watch play the game. So, in this case, think I’ll dispose of any lingering “wait-and-see” thoughts. I’ve seen…and he ain’t waitin’.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 5, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Richard Cory,

From the last blog: Yeah, That was funny as he!! when Wicky turned around and ‘bout jumped out of his shoes when he saw Chipper standing there.

DOB, any comments on that from anybody??

By KC

April 5, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Kinley: “KC: I agree to a certain extent about a team relying on home runs. Yeah, it might be easier to go yard than to string together three or four hits against a good pitcher. But you can’t go into the ninth inning every night down two runs (or the 11th inning of a tie game) and expect a home run to save you. It’s just living dangerously.”

I don’t think the Braves go into late-inning rally situations expecting to be bailed out by a dramatic homerun. They’ll play station to station, look for the base hit or the sac-fly, and try to scratch out a run. Bobby pinch-ran for McCann in the late innings the other day in an effort to manufacture a run.

What would you have them do differently?

They’re not sitting back and waiting for it… but we shouldn’t view all the homeruns as bad news.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

DOB said it-good pitching and timely hitting. Folks, that’s what we said would be the Braves modus operandi in the offseason. If the team ERA is under control, the bullpen has been as advertised, and we have gotten just enough hitting to win. We don’t have to lead the NL in runs scored-where’d that get us last year? The Braves are best when they are grounded in pitching, defense, and just enough hitting to win.

I’m loving this, and so are Atlanta-area pharmacies, who should be stocking up on Alka-Selzer, Rolaids, and Tums.

BTW, has anyone seen the Mississippi roster? I’m going to a game or two in June, and I am in for a treat. Lillbridge and Brandon Jones are on the roster, as are Matt Harrison and JoJo Reyes. Provided they don’t promote by June, I’ll really enjoy that trip. I did my undergrad degree at Union University in Jackson, TN (home of the West TN Diamond Jaxx, the Cubs AA team). The Jaxx are hosting the M-Braves that week-I may do two or three games, since the prices are so reasonable.

I can’t help it-I’m a Braves addict. Can I get an amen from the bobbleheads?

By Greg in TN

April 5, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Morning everybody…

McCann is the real deal. Calls a good game, saved us at the plate and by throwing out Victorino and tagging out Ryan Howard at the plate last night. He’s good people (as a colleague of mine once said).

DOB Is there any chance a few years down the road that McCann would consider a move out from behind the plate? I am only worried about that in terms of durability. Even with Bobby giving McCann a day off from time to time, I worry that all of the catching he’ll be doing will take their toll on his knees. He’s already had an ankle injury. I know the move from catcher to OF and 2B kept Craig Biggio in Houston’s lineup much longer IMO than he would have been had he remained a catcher. Just curious about your thoughts there.

Gang, let’s jump out on Philly early today.

By Carroll

April 5, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

My God I had almost forgotten what it was like to have a real team that could pull out these types of games. Matter of fact, in the 9th inning of game one, I had already resolved that we would lose, but that it was a moral victory for the way that Gonzo and Soriano pitched…..funny how jaded we all are after last year?! Then Wicky reached back a little, Renteria stepped up, and a sure loss became a huge win….you HAVE to be able to pull those games out to win the division.

And while the Mets pitching looked good against a woeful Cards team, I wonder if they would have had the testicular fortitude to pull these two gut-wrenchers out. They had better…if they hope to keep from getting run out of the Ted this weekend!

By DAP

April 5, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

i post this at the end of the last blog…not trying to be annoying but i want to make sure ya’ll see my Q.

can anyone tell me what time i need to be at turner field to watch batting practice?

thanx!

By ssiscribe

April 5, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

All I can say is this: Last year, Braves are 0-2. This year, the team is brimming with confidence.

The bullpen is fixed. Hudson, for one night, looked great. Team’s struggling to manufacture runs, yet is hitting in the clutch. Defense saved the game last night.

Win today, and it’ll be the undefeated Mets and the undefeated Braves in a packed, frosty Turner Field this weekend. If you’re going this weekend, break out the long johns.

Grinch, I’ll let ya know on the tix soon, bro. Got a lot of work to do so I can enjoy a three-day weekend, so lemme run. Later on, folks. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By sammy miller

April 5, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

don’t ever doubt Heaps hitting ability, he learned from a natural named Sammy!

By alan greenspan

April 5, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

Some players contracts, such as Mr. Brian McCann, are evidence of unsustainable speculation and froth in the baseball market. In short, there is a baseball bubble - perhaps sign of a market Topps. The commissioner needs to tighten contract standards. There is simply too much liquidity, especially beyond right field in San Francisco’s ballpark. Baseball owners as well as Braves bloggers are afflicted with irrational exuberance. Contact price surges might simmer down as players become less affordable. It’s pretty clear that it’s an unsustainable underlying pattern: Mr. McCann’s homerun total cannot reach to the sky and the Braves will not win all their games this year.

By Paul Hamilton

April 5, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Yeah McCann is something special, I realized that ever since I saw him take Roger deep in the playoffs. That just doesn’t happen, especially for a young guy. I also have to give JS props for the Soriano trade, that guy is money!! Oh and the reason the Braves didn’t give Franceour a huge deal is because he swings at pitches above his shoulders with runners on base…Twice. They are going to eat him up this year if he doesn’t learn the strike zone! I like Jeff, and he has all the physical tools to be great, but his eye at the plate is horrible. You can be as good as McCann Jeff, if you will take the time to learn the damn strike zone.

By Shaun

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

It’s still way too early to say too much about this season, but the record in close games appears to be doing what we would expect. Last year the Braves had the worst record in baseball in one-run games. Now they obviously have an improved bullpen and have gotten the breaks, so it’s turning around. We’ll see if the trend continues, as expected.

In the first two games, run prevention has obviously been the key. Hopefully that trend will continue, as well. We’ll see what the bottom of the rotation can do this weekend.

By Kieran from Long Island

April 5, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

I Know your not going to like this Dave, but why you/the Braves aren’t going to think it’s a good idea frustrates me…

Jorge Cantu wants out of Tampa, they optioned him to Durham, he’s demanded a trade, there is NO MARKET for second baseman… NONE. The 2B on the Championship team last year had to wait until late february to get a minor league contract from the worst team in the MBL (Belliard in Washington).

Cantu is a Right handed 25-year-old hitter who had 100+ RBI a couple years ago. Why Not?? They’re gonna be able to get him cheap and if Bobby doesn’t wanna give up on his Minorleague 2B/leadoff man then he can platoon them which he loves to do anyway. I would think that Cantu would rather platoon on a potential winnign team then play for the AAA version of a potential(and probable) last place team?

I’m not seeing any cons in this scenerio, outside of the Drays asking too much(No market for 2b tho) and belief that Cantu, at 25, can’t play anymore, which I simply dont believe. the Rays soured on his attitude and work ethic, not his ability. I would think that a new envirnment would boost that up again.

David O’Brien hit me with your best shot… Why shouldn’t the Braves pursue this????

By T DON

April 5, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Lets not forget about Victor Martinez..Maurs a stud also…if the BRAVES can just find a SOLID leadoff hitter, were in business!!

By Metropolitan Man

April 5, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Congrats on the 2-0 start, way to take it to the philthies. See you guys at the TED this weekend, make sure you birng plenty of tissues to wipe away the tears the METS will cause to run down your cheeks. Granted, that McCann is the real deal as advertised so it should be a good sereis as long as HE hits. Other than that the METS are quoted today to be looking forward to playing you guys, hope the feeling is mutual. LETS GO METS!!!! ESPECIALLY FRIDAY,SATURDAY AND SUNDAY.

By Greg in TN

April 5, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

DAP,

Sorry, I meant to respond last night and got carried away. This info can also be found on the Braves website under Batting Practice Schedule on the Ballpark: A to Z Convenience Guide:

Pre-game batting practice is a ritual exclusive to the game of baseball. The schedule listed below is subject to change by either team.

7:05 p.m. game Visitors Extra Hitting 2:00-3:00 Braves Extra Hitting 4:20-4:35
Braves Hit 4:35-5:35
Visitors Hit 5:35-6:15
Braves Infield 6:15-6:25
Visitors Infield 6:25-6:35

7:35 p.m. game
Visitors Extra hitting 2:30-3:30
Braves Extra hitting 4:50-5:05
Braves Hit 5:05-6:05
Visitors Hit 6:05-6:45
Braves Infield 6:45-6:55
Visitors Infield 6:55-7:05

1:05 p.m. game
Braves Hit 10:45-11:35
Visitors Hit 11:35-12:15
Braves Infield 12:15-12:25
Visitors Infield 12:25-12:35

The Grand Entry Plaza opens 2.5 hours prior to game time. Seating areas open 2 hours prior. I’d be there right as the gates open to the seating areas if you want to catch as much BP as possible.

By Renegator

April 5, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

The Braves and forced to rely on the HR right now because they can’t string together enough hits to manufacture them. Once the Jones boys and corner outfielders come around - we won’t have to rely on the long ball so much.

Dear Bobby,

Please send Kelly Johnson to the minors and call up ANYBODY else.

Sincerely

Renegator

By Lee

April 5, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Amen brother Matthew…..I am a Brave’s addict also. Two beers for McCann and one for The Mighty Thor……..! Go Braves!!!!

By Epinephrine

April 5, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

I am getting pretty excited.

First of all, Kelly looked really good yesterday. Hit the ball hard twice and drew a walk. As long as he is hitting the ball hard, the hits will come for him.

Frenchy looks like he got over his opening day jitters. Andruw also hit the ball well yesterday. Against a mediocre pitcher, we will put up a lot of runs.

The pitching has looked stellar so far. Gonzo is having some control issues, but with his mentality, I can’t see it lasting long.

We will need big time performances, though, from Redman and Davies. They need to eat up some innings. Hopefully James will overcome his aversion to afternoon pitching today.

By mnm

April 5, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

im glad the braves one the first two games but im scared of the mets i dont believe the braves can handle their offense. And mark redman is starting friday so thats probably a loss and the game own sunday is a loss kyle davies sucks we might win saturday, but lets face it the braves cant beat the mets.

By Venezolano

April 5, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Guys, I love the Braves. I think is a good team, but it’s only been 2 games and we still have not faced great pitching. I would like to see the team against Pedrito Martinez soon, or other dominant pitchers, only then we can say what a great team!

By DonCoburleone

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

Mets fans go away… You guys swept Albert Pujols, congratulations. However, I will say this: Beltran sucks; Delgado blows; Wright and Reyes are totally overrated; Glavine and Hernandez are relics; Billy Wagner has lost it; and that team is so juiced up, Omar Minaya himself has backne…

By Braves fan

April 5, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Well thats good. Chipper is saying that McCann has got it. Well when is Chipper going to get it too. I see him strike out a way lot more then McCann does. Then again, maybe someone can talk to Andruw too. Hes up to no good already.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Kieran from Long Island,

Allow me: Cantu’s OBP combined in the majors and minors is barely over .300, which is bad even for a middle infielder in today’s game. And he’s 25 which means he may improve but probably not that much.

He’s got power and can play several infield positions, but look up fringe infielder in the dictionary and there’s Jorge Cantu.

By Coach

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

Yep , could have told you all this about seven months ago , he really is a solid ball player all the way around and he will get better. That curveball he hit off Gordon , it came in belt high and it was launched. Daddy McCann taught this kid all the fundamentals and gave him a chance to succeed in the majors. Now I’m gonna gripe , why isn’t McCann hitting cleanup ? He is a much better clutch hitter than Andruw has ever been. Okay , griping’s done. As long as this brand of Bobby ball is played , the Braves will do well , obviously. They sure as hell can’t run , so just keep blasting the home runs , pitching lights out and playing good defense. Gonna jump on the I’m Chuck James BIATCH BANDWAGON and root for the kid to do well today ! My little riddle has everybody stumped. Bob Gibson did it in 1968. Thirty-six years later Johan Santana repeated it(2004). Not Nolan , Seaver , Maddux , Clemens , Randy Johnson , Smoltz , Palmer , Carlton or any other pitcher has done it since 1968. Although a kid named Gooden came damn close in 1985 , but mother nature kinda messed that up. In fact Gooden came within one game of the this mysterious accomplishment. It’s all about QUALITY. To me , it’s such a rare and unbelievable thing to happen in the course of a full season and Baseball has completely over looked it.

By Jeff R

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

The Mets faced a Cards pitching staff that is nowhere near as good as 2006 (it wasn’t great then). In the Cards series, Mets pitching was good, but I doubt it has the durability to hold up over 162 games. We’ll see how the Mets staff is performing come July and August.

By rammerjammer

April 5, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Can anyone here remember the last time an early April series had so much anticipation? I mean, it’s April for crying out loud, and you’d think it’s September.

Man, remember last season when the mets came to town and Marcus Giles CALLED THEM OUT? They stomped our butts!!!

Whew, it STILL hurts to think about that whuppin’.

Gonna have two sky-high teams going nose-to-nose. Wouldn’t be at all surprised to see a bench-clearing, because these two teams are itching to get at it and send a message.

By Lew

April 5, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Kiernan-And what about his work ethic and attitude that turned the DRays off, makes you think the Braves will put up with it? The guy’s batting average, OBP, power numbers and defense have gone steadily downhill over the past three seasons. How bad do you have to be before the DRays dump your a$$? You also mention the Rays asking too much. Dude, I think you’ve answered your own questions. He’s not a good fit for the Braves. Give Johnson a chance, for crying out loud. It’s been two whole games.

By VICTOR

April 5, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

I am from Panama & I am a big Braves fan since late 70’s ( a few years ago) and due to my work I have to travel a lot!!! so during a meeting in Atlanta (December 2005) I went to Atlanta clubhouse store inside CCN centre and I had the privilege to meet Mc’s mother… what a classy lady!!! she was overwhelmed because somebody outside of USA knew some of HIS heroics & that time… I remember talking to her & the clerck of the store about Mc homer against a future hall of famer named Roger Clemmens, about the hours that he and Frenchy spent playing video games and “competing against each other” (by the way I remember to read that article here around november 2005)… guess what??? she was so gratefull and pround that we exhanged zip codes and by February 2006 I got some pictures signed by Mc and other with his little brother… HE IS THE KIND OF MAN (PLAYER) BECAUSE THE KIND OF FAMILY WHO STANDS BEHIND HIM!!! I am so proud for them as a family and for him as human being!!! ADELANTE BRAVOS

By eware

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

Its amazing how different Hudson looks this year. The ball looks more natural leaving his hand. You didn’t see that last year. He’s worked hard and deserves a good year. War eagle, Tim.

I’ve been trying to be McCann since last year - at my wife’s recommendation. I’m kidding….but, seriously.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

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

Kieran from Long Island:

I suggested Cantu the other day, and the basic response was why? He apparently wasn’t good enough to win the starting gig in TAMPA BAY, so why would he perform better in the ATL?

My guess is, though, that if the Braves traded from their bullpen surplus, and perhaps added a middle infielder then the deal could be done. I don’t know what it means contractually, since the Braves are fairly close to their salary cap (imposed by our owners), but it is worth a shot in my mind.

By Marvin Freeman

April 5, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why no one is talking about the possible greatest season of all time… Bob Wickman is on pace for 81 wins and 81 saves! It would be almost as good as my 92 season when I went 7-5 with a 3.22 ERA.

By DonCoburleone

April 5, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK METS SUCK

By KC

April 5, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

mnm: I love it when Mets fans post under different names, tying to sound like a genuinely despondent Braves fan.

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

AAHHH METEOR MAN
You are as lame as that movie was. I look forward to rubbing every single second of every single victory over the SCHMUKS !!

By the way, I sit right in front of the visitors on-deck circle so I can razz the crap out of them. Come on down, yell out Caveman, and I’ll buy you a beer to catch your tears. If your ‘78 cadillac can’t make it to the game remember Marta has reduced the shuttle bus price.

FYI: If want to improve your status in life you could always move to the big city — CONYERS!!

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

mnm, are you really chicken little?

The sky is falling, the sky is falling!!!

Redman and Davies are not Spahn and Sain, but our bullpen is good enough that if we can stay within a run or two, we can win late. Relax, unless you’re really a Met fan trying to stir the pot. In that case, be afraid…be very afraid. The Mets streak will end at one, and their fluke season (2006) will become a distant memory as the Braves arise form the ashes of last year and DOMINATE 2007, both regular season and playoffs. The Atlanta Braves, your 2007 World Champions!

Wow, the way I’m preaching today, I feel for my congregation on Sunday.

And I’m just warming up!

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Kiernan, Lew, Matthew, Walter’s Dad,

The simple response is Jorge Cantu is not that good.

The evidence I offer up is his career OBP of just over .300. Cantu is useful because he has some pop and can play at least a couple of infield positions adequately. He’s valuable, but he’s no more than a fringe type player. He’s probably going to bounce between the majors and AAA-ball for most of his career.

By 22oz

April 5, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Go ahead and drop Andruw out of cleanup and put Big Mac in the four spot so all the walks Chipper is getting don’t go to waste. Andruw’s looked pitiful so far, he’s pressing to get that $20 mil deal. McCann will at least do something besides strike out or hit a home run. He can actually make a productive out.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Let me clarify-I don’t want to acquire Jorge Cantu unless he signs a TJ Bohn type deal. But I don’t think he is worthless, and he has more experience than KJ. I’m not giving up on KJ, just pointin out that signing Cantu would be possible and not as insane as some might suggest.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

22oz,

Give AJ some time. It’s two games and one of them was in cold weather against a good pitcher. Reminder—this is baseball. You’ve got to judge slowly.

By chuck w/deadjournalist.com

April 5, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

brian mccann vs. johnny bench

i know it is way too early to make an direct comparisions, but …

bench didn’t hit for quite the career average (only once over .300 and that was in the strike shortened ‘81 season) but he also had 40+ HR power when 40+ HRs meant something. career OPS: .818. his career adjusted OPS is +126 vs. the league.

bench is probably the best defensive catcher in the hall of fame (10 gold glove award).

mccann (and again, this is less than two years vs. 17 for bench)has a career OPS of .912. his career adjusted OPS is +134 against the league.

while mccann calls a good game and can gives a good target, he doesn’t have much of an arm and is an average defender at best.

again, WAY too early to say anything other than mccann is the best offensive catcher in the NL and has a promising career ahead of him, but but the braves could do worse than having a young catcher is putting up numbers on par with one (if not the) best catcher in the modern era.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

April 5, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Philly fans: welcome to the world of the 2006 Braves. Enjoy your blowpen; it couldn’t happen to a nicer team and a wonderful group of loyal fans…er, oh, yeah. Philly fans suck. They boo frickin’ Santa Claus.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

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

Andruw had a terrible start the year he hit 51 HRs. Relax. Expect 40+ HRs, 120 RBI, but a .260-.275 batting average.

By Summerteeth

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

DOB,

I am curious to know your opinion on Francoeur and why he doesn’t seem to get ‘it’ the way McCann gets ‘it’. Watching and hearing Frenchy talk all spring about being more patient and changing his batting stance to reflect those changes, and then seeing him flailing about like he has no idea what he is doing, is like watching Michael Jordan try to play baseball.

I appreciate the stats Jeff has put up, just not how he goes about getting them.

By Rosalynn

April 5, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

That boah Brian McCann is alreada a stah in the league and he is onla 23 yeahs old. The Easta Bunna came earla this yeah with the signing of that nice boah. Now, I would like to make mah fuhst music post since joining this blog. Please enjoa and hum this little tune all dah!

Heah comes Peta Cottontail,

Hoppin’ down the bunna trail,

Hippa-ta, Hoppa-ta,

Easta’s on its wah!

He’s got jella beans for Tomma,

Colored eggs for sista Sue,

There’s an ohchid for yoah momma,

And an Easta bonnet too. Oh!

Here comes Peta Cottontail,

Hoppin’ down the bunna trail,

Hippa-ta, Hoppi-ta

Happa Easta Dah!

By DAP

April 5, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

thanx greg from TN! i really appreciate it!

By C-Ballz

April 5, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Maybe someone could get McCann to talk to Frenchy about the finer points of hitting, so Jeff can stop embarrassing himself up there, swinging at every pitch and tipping it back to the pitcher.

By mnm

April 5, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

all im saying is redman and davies aint worth a s** there is no way yall can be the mets

By michael

April 5, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Brian McCann could very well become the best catcher in the history of the franchise. And the Braves have had some pretty fair catchers in their long history. McCann made us all forget about Johnny Estrada and Javy Lopez. Before those two the Braves had, at best, a string of mediocre catchers: Charlie O’Brien, Damon Berryhill, Greg Olson. Does anyone remember Jody Davis and Ozzie Virgil, two of the worst I can recall. Bruce Benedict was a good defensive catcher but mostly a slap hitter. Before Benedict, the Braves had Rick Cerone, a castoff from the Yankees, Vic Correll, Biff Pocoroba and the inimitable Earl Williams. When the Braves came to Atlanta Joe Torre was wearing out National League pitchers and area bartenders as well. Spelling Torre were Gene Oliver and Bob Uecker who was brought in to catch Neikro’s knuckler. Way back in the early paleozoic era, Del Crandall, Walker Cooper and Phil Masi started behind the plate for Milwaukee. Crandall missed the 1951 and 52 seasons during the Korean War. The Braves also had three cathers who made the Hall of Fame back in ancient days: King Kelly, Ernie Lombardi and Al Lopez all played for the Braves for a while. And who could forget Dee Cousineau who played in five game and got one hit.They had two catchers named Pop: Pop Tate and Pop Snyder, and one named Peaches Graham. But McCann will be one they will remember 50 years from now.

By beachcomber

April 5, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

If I could weigh on the Cantu issue. Living in the Tampa Bay area, forced to watch more of the Rays than the law should allow, Cantu, numbers aside, appears to be what in my playing days, we called a “head case.” It seems the Rays somewhat foster that type player. But n any case, there is somewhat of a template for Braves players and he just doesn’t fit it on or off the field.

By journalist jimmy smith

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

dead journalist? oh, the humanity!

By Lew

April 5, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Braves Fan (If that’s what you really are)-Do you bother to do any research before you open your mouth and pour that crap out? Chipper strikes out too much? You need a reality check. Chipper has never struck out a 100 times in a season, which most power hitters do. He also walks a lot. Last year in 110 games, he struck out all of 73 times and walked 61. Dude (or whatever), get your facts straight before you run your mouth. It makes you look really stupid.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Matthew, Walter’s Dad,

Experience doesn’t matter if you are no more than a fringe-type player. Kelly Johnson should be a solid major league secondbaseman (adequate to good). Cantu is a fringe-type player.

Kind of like Corie Koskie has more experience than Alex Gordon but who would you take right now?

A common fallacy is major league experience is the only experience that matters. Obviously the minors aren’t the majors but the minors do and should count for something. Johnson played shortstop, he’s been working out and playing at second for at least a month and a half now, probably longer. He’s been a solid hitter at basically every level.

Cantu has not been a particularly good hitter at any level.

By Maurice

April 5, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Next Dale Murphy? Are you kidding me? McCann is far better than Dale Murphy. How dare you compare a potential future Hall of Fame catcher to that outfielder.

By 22oz

April 5, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I guess I can be patient and wait til next year when Andruw’s gone for McCann to hit cleanup. I will not, however, change my opinion about the fact that Andruw and Francoeur should never be batting back to back, last night not withstanding (i think i said that right).

By Voice of Reason

April 5, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Well, the old philosophy of pithing and defense is paying off so far. It’s nice when the D doesn’t kick it around, huh? The play to get Howard at home was HUGE. Let’s not overlook Kelly’s play at 2B last night… turning the DP mighty well and making the relay home. It wasn’t that long ago we were worried about how well he would recover from Tommy John surgery. Looks like he has…

By beachcomber

April 5, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Michael - Don’t forget Del Rice and Carl Taylor from back in pre-historic times from which you, like me, must hail.

By Voice of Reason

April 5, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I know… I said pithing and defense. The pitching and defense is pretty good too.

By Braves20

April 5, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Told my wife in spring training, this kid (McCann) can’t do any better than he did last year. Wrong! Hope I’m just as wrong about the Wilson-Thorman tandem currently at a composite .100/.300. 1 for 10 hitting and 3 for 10 striking out.

By 22oz

April 5, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Summerteeth, Francoeur gave an interview last week on XM radio and said that he’s trying to model his hitting after Andruw. Thats all you need to know right there. He’s more interested in the big home runs than being a high average, productive hitter. Plus I’m not sure he has the ability to make the change to a more MCCann or Chipper-like hitter. That’s just not his makeup.

By Metropolitan Man

April 5, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Ahhhh, good ole Caveman bragging about living in the Sticks, congradulations. Conyers is only good for the super Walmart and Coldern Coral. I dont know who you think I am but I’m not your typical guy that gets rattled on this crap you spew. You are so fam from the truth that I think I will come check you out at your seat if you would kindly say what day you are attending so I can take the beer you bought and shove it up your…….. Other than YOU, I hope to see some real baseball fans at the TED so we can enjoy what we came for.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Let me rephrase that: Cantu should just bounce between the majors and AAA-ball for most of his career.

By Gil in Mechanicsville(zoo keeper)

April 5, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Renegator … In an earlier post you made the comment that you were no expert. Do you realize every time you post you reinforce that fact?

Yes, minor league ball. Up close and personal and reasonable prices. I look forward to seeing Escobar and Prado this year. Looks like a lot of speed on the team. The Richmond Braves open on the road in Buffalo today. Any wonder Davies was glad too get called up? Lew Think they will get that game in?

By meansonny

April 5, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Coach I’m guessing here. Is it a “triple crown” of pitching??? ERA, Strikeouts, Wins, Innings?

By David O'Brien

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

Yes, just saw that replay of Wickman being startled by Chipper’s presence on the mound. Chipper was cleaning off his shoes on the little mat they have next to the mound. Funny stuff….

Jorge Cantu? Precipitous dropoff since his big year. Not a Braves type player. Plus, don’t know if you’ve heard, but they’ve got a lot of infield depth, some of it major league-ready. When you’ve got Yunel Escobar waiting in the wings, you don’t need Jorge Cantu…

BSJ, I loved Dire Straits, especially the early stuff _ the single “Sultans of Swing” and the phenomenal Making Movies and Love Over Gold albums. That Love Over Gold album came out in 1982 and I remember playing it so much that year in my freshman year of college that it starting making those squirrely noises those old cassettes made when they wore out. Have since bought it on album and CD. What a great album. Telegraph Road, what a song.

Anyway, yeah, his solo stuff has gotten much mellower but it’s great stuff. I really liked that album he did with Emmylou a year or two ago.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

I agree, Shaun. The 2005 RBI totals are not enough to warrant us giving up good talent. Besides, the D-Rays front office is incapable of making an intelligent deal without asking for the moon.

By Lil' Chopper

April 5, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

I love Francouer and all and I truly hope I am wrong about him, but more and more he is looking like a clone of Adam Dunn. Meaning I see a .240 - .260 batting average and 30 - 40 HR’s. Francouer is just not a disciplined hitter.

Like Dunn, Frenchy can hit the ball a mile, but like Dunn he swings for fences at EVERYTHING. He just goes up there and hacks away. It looks like he is swinging an axe trying to cut down a Red wood in one swing.

I know everyone will jump on me because it is early, but from what I have seen he hasn’t learned anything from last year. He still hacks away at bad pitches and refuses to make the pitcher work. Sure if the pitcher makes a mistake he will make that pitcher pay, but until that happens he will just hack away at everything and anything that crosses the plate.

Jeff Francouer = Adam Dunn

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Francoeur gave an interview last week on XM radio and said that he’s trying to model his hitting after Andruw. Thats all you need to know right there. He’s more interested in the big home runs than being a high average, productive hitter.

Awesome power, respectable on-base/out-avoiding—I’d say that’s a good player to model your hitting after, especially if you are a great defensive outfielder with a cannon.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

Coach and meansonny,

I propose a new Triple Crown:

AVG/OBP/SLG for hitting.

K/BB/HR for pitchers.

These are the three most telling stats for each.

By meansonny

April 5, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

I like the idea of moving McCann away from the catcher equipment. Especially when players like Ryan Howard are barrelling down the 3B line. Murphy was another example of a catcher moved to help extend his career/production.

Maybe Brian can platoon catcher/1B depending on who our starter is. Imagine if he played 150+ games every year.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Shaun, you want to figure into the pitchers Triple Crown how many home runs they hit? That’s absurd!

Just kidding…

By meansonny

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

Shaun OBP and SLG can be combined with OPS. I still like RBI’s to go along with AVG and OPS if I got to pick the 3.

My pitching would be opposing AVG, K per BB, and ERA.

Wins is not a bad one for a pitcher, but we know how much a teams offense and bullpen can affect that statistic.

By Renegator

April 5, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Maybe the Braves should sign McCann’s dad to be the new hitting coach. Seriously.

By KC

April 5, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

meansonny: I think there’s definitely merit in what you’re saying. It is scary to have a hitter that good playing the most physically demanding and perhaps the riskiest position on the field.

But, it’s a lot easier to find offense from other positions than from your catcher, so that’s an advantage where the lineup’s concerned. Also, he is a good defensive catcher, and fantastic at calling a game and working with pitchers… so his value is by far at its greatest with him behind the plate, despite the risk.

By Summerteeth

April 5, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Believe me, I don’t expect Frenchy to be anywhere near a Chipper-esque hitter. I just wonder what all the fuss was about this spring with him ‘changing’ something. I don’t see a change at all. It is like he has forgotten everything he worked on this spring. There are obvious holes and flaws with his swing and approach and I just think he would benefit from addressing these issues. Keep the aggressivness and power, just work on getting ‘it’ like McCann gets ‘it’. Or am I just wishing for too much?

By David O'Brien

April 5, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

OK, just told they want me to blog in-game again. But we’re going to scale it back quite a bit, simply because there’s no physical way I can write a game story for first edition (has to be filed after the game, before going to the clubhouse) while also blogging every inning.

So I’ll just post whenever something really jumps out at me during the game, every couple innings or whatever. WILL POST THAT UP IN THE ORIGINAL POST, NOT HERE (there was some confusion with a couple of folks last time, apparently, who were looking for the in-game stuff here).

By meansonny

April 5, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Lew Good call on Chipper. The guy has already walked 5 times this season. Only 2 K’s (I know it’s only 2 games). Chipper’s a quality hitter all the way around. Bravesfan just feels like venting for some reason.

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

NEOPOLITAN ICECREAM MAN We’ll if that’s your plan then don’t expect anything better than a Pabst Blue Ribbon but than again for somebody who probably drinks Black Label that’s gotta be a step up in quality. I will also recommend you bring your own first aid kit complete. I’ll be sure and bring some Flexible Band-Aids to try and heal your ego after that plan blows up in your face much like the Schmucks starting pitching.

By the way —- Conyers has a Super Wal-Mart?? dang the property values must be soaring. You better act quick if you want to get out of your single-wide.

By Jimbo

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

McCann gets it! Frenchy doesn’t. Adjustments? What adjustment. He looks like the same Frenchy the Clown this year like he did last year. One would think that just be being around professional hitters like Chipper, Renteria and McCann he would get a clue. Not To be.

By Maddog281

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

One minor correction to the order of cathers Michael posted above:

Rick Cerone came to the Braves between the Bruce Benedict years and the Davis/Virgil years. Not being overly picky here lol, just being accurate.

Oh and I agree many of those were pretty bad catchers, but let’s keep a soft spot for Greg Olson for his drive and grittiness - he was a major figure in the worst-to-first turnaround of 91.

By caveman22

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

meansonny I’m not big on correcting errors but MURPHY was moved from catcher because most of his throws to second base wound up in the outfield.

By David Kemph

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

It is good to have a player “that gets it” with men in scoring position.The problem I see is the Braves have two players in key spots in the batting order that more often then not don’t make adjustments to get men in. Francouer and Andrew Jones while full of talent are not as reliable as they should be. The “baseball IQ ” of Francouer leaves alot to be desired. In the post season that can and has come back to haunt the Braves. I hope McCann doesn’t get hurt because Chipper Jones is the only real threat on a consistant bases. Good postseason pitchers don’t walk people and then give up a three run bomb.

By Jimbo

April 5, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Will it take Kelly Johnson going 0 for 97 before Bobby realizes he can’t hit? Bring back Prado. We already know he cant catch a pop up

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

meansonny,

Minor problem with OPS is that you can’t tell how much is OBP and how much is SLG. And these two aren’t equal in terms of production. OBP tells us how good a hitter is at avoiding outs, as I post daily.

With pitching, AVG doesn’t do. Pitchers can be lucky in terms of giving up hits. Not much of what a pitcher does separates a ball gobbled up by the shortstop and one just out of the reach of the shortstop. This is the problem with AVG and ERA—they are too defense dependent. K, BB and HR focuses on what a pitcher can control—throwing strikes, making hitters miss bats, and keeping hitters from hitting the ball very hard.

By BamaBrave

April 5, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

About 2 and a half years ago I had the good fortune of working with a guy who had just “retired” from minor league baseball in the Braves farm system. He had the wisdom and maturity to realize he was a second baseman in an organization bursting with hot prospects at that position…and stepped away to follow his other dreams. Anyway, I quizzed him like a CIA interrogator, and two answers stuck with me. The toughest pitcher? Chuck James. “He’s not the hardest thrower, but you just can’t pick him up.” He said the best pure hitter he saw in the system was a “catcher named McCann.” If only I’d been able to buy stock in these two guys.

By Jimbo

April 5, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

David…Great point. Frenchy’s Baseball IQ is lower then Vince Young’s Wonderlic.

By meansonny

April 5, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Caveman22 I never spoke to anyone directly about the move from C to 1B/OF (I think Murphy had some games at 1B early in his career). So I’m only typing from what someone has told me.

You’re probably right about Murphy’s arm to second base. But I remember something about Murhpy’s knees being a concern well before he was draining fluid later in his career. Regardless, I was YoungSonny back then and believed everything I was told.

By Kieran from Long Island

April 5, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

To Shaun and DOB…

I understand the Braves are Deep in IF, but they dont wanna use Prado, and Escobar doesnt want to play second

Let’s just take a look at the numbers before we start writing guys off as “Fringe minor league players” Especially while the Braves have 2 such players in their everyday lineup.

Jorge Cantu has Had 2 full Major League Seasons. One all Star caliber year, and ONE, “Precipitous” drop off year. Remember this kid is 25 years old and we’re writing him off based on these two years…

Jorge Cantu-Age 25 .286 AVG 28 HR 117 RBI .311OBP 150 Games .249 AVG 14 HR 62 RBI 295 OBP 107 Games

Now lets take a look at two Braves regular’s most recent years…

Kelly Johnson, Age 25, one full year… .241 AVG 9 HR 40 RBI .334OBP 89 Games

Ryan Langerhans, Age 27, last year… .241 AVG 7 HR 28 RBI .350OBP, in 131 Games!!(UGH)

You CANNOT say that Cantu is a “Fringe major league, and be happy with Ryan Langerhans in LEFT FIELD. Cantu has potential to produce at a low production position, on a team that is going to have comparitivly weak production from 1B and Left field

Now let us keep in mind Cantu’s stats are in Tampa with No one hitting around him (Also battled some injuries and started off the year in that dreadful World Baseball classic, take a look at the other guys who played in that things numbers.)

I’m not about to start a Jorge Cantu Fan Club or Trade the farm for him, but I beleive he deserves a look based on the numbers and the potential lack of production the Braves, in their neglectance to have a fair compition at second base, are going to recieve.

By KC

April 5, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Shaun: If Francoeur is trying to take cues from Andruw, I would suspect that’s because he’s trying to be realistic.

He isn’t the same as a Chipper or McCann. He’s an aggressive hitter. So probably the best thing he can do is to look at what other successful aggressive power hitters have done to become successful.

You’ll notice that he’s spreading out more as Andruw started doing before his offensive break-out season a couple years ago. He’s looking at someone who has learned to minimize the negative effects of natural shortcomings… natural shortcomings similar to his own. I think that’s smart.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

David Kemph,

Andrew doesn’t “get it” with men in scoring position? Let’s see, his career numbers are .256 AVG/.360 OBP/.444 SLG. That’s fairly close to his overall career numbers. The OBP is even better than his overall numbers.

By TennesseePaul

April 5, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

I wanna see a SWEEP!

GO BRAVES

By bsj

April 5, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur = Adam Dunn

Holy Shnikeys! In a word, NO Dunn is a tremendous mistake hitter, but you don’t see him hitting the pitcher’s pitch that often. Francoeur would better be compared to Vlad, because he can hit that pitch. Not as often as Vlad, surely, but he’s young, and he’ll get better at it. The bottom line is, I like his aggressiveness. A young hitter can get himself in funks by being TOO patient at the plate, watching too many pitches. Pat Burrell came up with similar hype several years ago. The stat of the night last night was this: Burrell struck out LOOKING 63 times last year (Somewhere Tony Gwynn cringed when I said that). Needless to say, Burrell is now screwed in the head wrt the strike zone. We don’t want that for Frenchy.

By Lew

April 5, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Gil-I’m not sure what the weather is like in Buffalo. I’m way far east of there. We’ve got a foot of snow in Central Vermont and it’s still snowing. If Buffalo got any of this system, then let’s hope they’re not playing. Too damn cold for baseball (to play it, anyway).

By ssiscribe

April 5, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Sitting here at work, knocking out stuff left and right, a three-day weekend including two trips to Turner Field staring me in the eye, listening to the BoSox on the Net (Dice-K to toe the slab for the NewEnglandahs) and the Bravos looking to start 3-0.

The only drawback: It’s gonna be really cold here this weekend. But still, it’s a matter of perspective. Lew, just looked at your pics, man. Wow. Talk about blackberry winter. More snow on the ground in your yard than I’ve ever seen in my life, probably.

BoSox up 1-0; here comes Dice-K. In Philly, it’s almost gametime. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By meansonny

April 5, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

KC True that. However with a self imposed salary cap and a team built around quality pitching, run produuct is at a premium.

Not to mention what might happen to the morale of the team/fanbase if we have another Estrada injury.

I’m not saying it’s the right move. Just fueling some discussion. Smoltz said it best that he couldn’t help us in the post season when he’s not in the game.

By TennesseePaul

April 5, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Blog interruption. This just in: They want me to blog in-game again

You may have fed this beast too much. Before you know it, they’ll have this televised. Billboards all of the ATL with the slogan: Blog with DOB about the Braves, tonight at 7:35pm. Only on the AJC.

But… I’m not complainin’. Thanks for all the work DOB!

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

meansonny you are correct about 1B as well, and yes they did drain fluid from Murphy. His knees had to be KILLING him from carrying the Braves on his back all the time.

ALLRIGHT QUESTION FOR THE BLOG

Dale Murphy and Bob Horner made a commercial in the early ‘80’s where Horner poked fun at himself by laying on a lounge chair and saying “OOOWWW, MY WRIST” when he picked up the item advertised. What was it and what company did it come from??

By Wayne in Utah

April 5, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

KC Excellent point on the catching position and keeping McCann there. I do think that at some point, we might want to factor in the difference between losing him for 30+ games and trading offense at another position. About the only place McCann could play would probably be first base. Can’t see him roaming in LF. So, we need to decide if we are better with McCann at 1B and whoever else at C (Pena or Salty?) or McCann/Pena at catcher and Thorman and/or Wilson at 1B.

This subject might be approached maybe next spring depending on how Salty, Pena, Thorman and Wilson do this year at their respective positions.

Good problem to have.

A possible theory: in ‘08, have Salty at C with McCann as his backup (Pena in reserve) and McCann playing 1B when he is not catching, with Thorman picking up the extra 1B work. My theory goes to he!! if Salty doesn’t hit in the minors this year, or if Thorman hits a ton…….

By Thrillhouse44

April 5, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

In game blogging again? We’ve been blessed? Sorry for the extra work it causes you, DOB, but we’re definitely thankful for it!

I’m sure Francouer will “get it” eventually. Not everyone is going to “get it” as quickly as McCann has. So many people on here are dogging Francouer out because he isn’t doing what B-Mac is doing. Guys, the reason we’re so impressed with McCann is because he is doing something that is exceptional. Just give Francouer some time and he will develop into a great ball player - this is only his second April in the majors.

Go Braves!

By Wayne in Utah

April 5, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Kieran: I wouldn’t mind seeing us offer Aybar for Cantu. A head case for a sinus situation!

By Lil' Chopper

April 5, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

It’s great to see McCann blossom into one of the best hitters in the game. It is truly a joy to watch him play and I love that he is locked up with this team for a long time to come.

It would be great if Francouer had even a smidgen of McCann’s discipline at the plate, but unfortunately it seems it is just not in the cards for him. Francouer plays very good defense in RF and he has demonstrated he can hit homeruns, but he also srikes out a ton and often looks really bad doing it and that style just bores me. I can’t stand watching him hack away, pitch after pitch, game after game, season after season…same ol Frenchy hacking, hacking, hacking his way back to the bench.

It just shows a complete lack of discipline, and his “I’m the golden boy attitude” is starting to get old. I really hope he proves all of us critics wrong and becomes the next Vlad Guerrero or even something close to that, but from what I have seen he is either too stubborn or too stupid to get to that point. It’s kind of sad because he’s got the potential, but the kid just doesn’t seem to “get it.”

I honestly think he is destined to become a career .250 hitter who averages 30 - 40 HR’s, 125 K’s and a sub .300 OBP and that is just boring.

By David O'Brien

April 5, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Richmond is going to be playing in the snow tonight, according to Bobby, if they get the game in. They were supposedly going to try….

Kieran, maybe you can convince someone he deserves a look. But it ain’t gonna be me. Prado, Lillibridge, Elvis, Escobar… I’m thinking the Braves are more than set in the infield for years to come. Just can’t see them having interest in Cantu. Of course, I don’t make the decisions. Really don’t know why you’re concerned about a guy like Cantu right now, two games into the season.

Hey, to each his own.

By KC

April 5, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Just heard the wind’s blowing out today. In that park… that’s not good news for a fly ball pitcher like James. That makes it important to keep runner’s of base today. I still think he’ll out-duel Adam Eaton.

By MarkH

April 5, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

So Dave you mean to tell me that bloggin’ every inning, writing a post game at the same time, and still paying attention to the game is too much? If you were a real company man I bet you could write a story on the structure and tax implications of the pending sale of the team at the same time. You just need more coffee, buck up and get to it man, you have a SJA to keep happy.

By Shaun

April 5, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francoeur DOES NOT EQUAL Adam Dunn. Dunn actually draws a lot of walks.

By Wayne in Utah

April 5, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

KC: One last thought on the McCann catching predicament. If Salty comes through as many are hoping, and if their defense and game calling is close to being even, why not teach BOTH to play 1B and let them alternate to keep the wear and tear down on BOTH players. Has any team ever done that with 2 high caliber players before? Lots of platoons out there, but this would be different.

Now wouldn’t that be a predicament on the All-Star ballet!! There has to be some problems with this scenario, so go ahead gang, enlighten me and shoot some holes in it (understand that this is all contingent on Salty reaching his potential).

By Wayne in Utah

April 5, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

One bad thing about XM: You have to listen to the hometown broadcasters. I do NOT like the guys doing the Phillies games at all. Makes me appreciate our boys even more.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 5, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

caveman22—U zijn zonder a twijfel the de meesten onwetend EzelClown op aarde!!…

By Maddog281

April 5, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Caveman

The item was a slice of pizza, and although I’m guessing it was for Pizza Hut.

By Joshhh

April 5, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I love how everyone now is saying “Get rid of Kelly Johnson”, I believe many of you were saying something like that after Opening Day about Thorman. And look at you now. Give it time people!! After two games we’re already talking about how we need to send someone down to the minors?? Come on people…

By John Mclane

April 5, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t mind if the Braves somehow picked up Cantu. His numbers in 05 are too good to ignore, and his broken toe last year contributed to his decline in offense. He’s only 25 and still has a ton of promise, why the Devil Rays gave up on him already is beyond me. It only justifies why they’ve consistently been a horrible team, even with all the prospects they’ve had.

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Here’s another piece of info on the question.

The commercial only ran for 2 day’s b/c of the controversy over Horner even though most of the commercial was done by Murphy. The advertising company didn’t have to pay for anymore airtime and got LOADS of publicity.

DOB I know you can look in the Archives and answer this one.

By tp

April 5, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Trade Andrew and Chipper Jones to the Yankees for Alex Rodriguez.

By Wayne in Utah

April 5, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

DOB Don’t worry about the mule, just load the wagon!

:-)

By NO CHOP 4-U

April 5, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Be careful MetroMan. don’t lose your cool with Caveman22. Banishment without warning is what you’ll get from the high command. No second chances…….nothing. Measure your words….it’s not worth it.

By Thrillhouse44

April 5, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Lil Chopper: “I can’t stand watching him hack away, pitch after pitch, game after game, season after season…”

Season after season, eh? Including the games this year, he’s played in 234 games.

By 22oz

April 5, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

My main concern is that Francouer is whiffing on pitches thrown right down the middle.

By michael

April 5, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Final post under this name. I mean I want a clever “handle like renegator or something.

Beachcomber, starting to feel a bit prehistoric. But that’s what I like about baseball, it has a long interesting history full of fascinating characters. Yeah, I left out a few catchers. Also left out Lew Brown who caught for the 1876 Boston Red Caps. I think I was still in elementary school then, but I have trouble remembering.

I have gone through several phases regarding my attitude towards the New York Mets. I used to love the poor hapless teams of the early sixties; then I hated them when they stole Tom Seaver from us; then I hated them a little more when they beat the Braves in the 1969 NLCS; then I went to Shea Stadium and started to feel pity for them; and then I got a computer and found out what a gaggle of embeciles their fans are; then I started hating them again. After they stole Glavine and ended our streak that hatred transmuted into something far more sinister.

DOB, still don’t know how you have the energy to do all that you do. I’d be slap crazy – that’s a southern term for serious insanity for all you uninitiated folks – in a month.

Listened to one of my old Tens Year After casssettes last night – homemade – and remembered one of the great shows of all time at the Fox Theatre. Their albums never captured what a fabulous live band they were. “I’m Going Home,” “Good Morning Little School Girl,” Choo Choo Mama.” Blues based rock at its best. Anyway, I’ve got to get back to work.

Keep up the good work, DOB. I forgot to pay my satellite bill so I will be at Skip Caray’s mercy until they get the check. No video feed, just the radio play by play. So I’ll need all your powers of description to keep me up to date. As old man Bisher used to say at the end of his columns, “Selah.”

By Wayne in Utah

April 5, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

We missed out shot at ARod years ago.

By Jo

April 5, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

DOB: is it just me, or don’t you find Telegraph Road “Springsteenesque”??? I’m with you on Love Over Gold, and love some of Knopfler’s solo stuff, too: Sailing to Philadelphia…… Ditto on the McCann superlatives.

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Maddoq281 You are correct sir !!!!

Horner caught so much crap over that it almost ruined him in Atlanta. I do recall that he later got a standing ovation during a game in Atlanta. I believe it was a BeanBall Brawl with the REDS and Horner was in street clothes upstair with his arm in a cast all the way up to his elbow with pins and screws wired all over it. After the first Melee he went downstairs and put on his uniform and was the ONLY player left in the dugout during the SECOND brawl when one of the opposing players attempted to enter and go after our pitcher who had exited to field. Horner met him at the top of the stairs cast and all , shaking his head and letting him know he was gonna have to go through him to get in there. I’m not sure but I think that picture made the Front Page. DOB Maybe you can confirm that for me off the top of your head.

By Chop Chop

April 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Adam Dunn has a career OBP of .380. He also has three straight 40-HR seasons. Dunn’s career batting average is .246. If Francoeur gets on base 38 percent of the time this year, he’ll hit .340 to do it. He never takes a walk. Dunn has walked over 100 times in four seasons. Take out intentional walks in those four seasons and he’s walked 100 times in three of them. It could take Francoeur three more seasons to get to 100 career walks in the bigs. He’s at 34 right now in 234 games. If Francoeur was more like Dunn and could still cover ground in right field, the Braves’ offense would be a hell of a lot better.

By ncscoots

April 5, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

“I honestly think he is destined to become a career .250 hitter who averages 30 - 40 HR’s, 125 K’s and a sub .300 OBP and that is just boring”…

That kind of boring gets you about five years at $12MM per.

Besides, judging careers on ~600 AB is a sure way to either (1) sign Angel Berroa to a long-term contract or (2) trade Jeff Bagwell for, well, I forget. Could be why many smart people don’t do it.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

DOB

Your 2:33 effectively ended the Jorge Cantu debate in my mind. I didn’t want him either, but thought he might be a cheap stopgap while our prospects blossomed. But it seems that Prado when healthy can take over if needed, and we have a boatload of young guns waiting in the wings.

No more Cantu on this blog from me-I promise!

By David O'Brien

April 5, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

OK, they’ve told me they want a separate in-game blog, separate from this one. Hey, I just follow orders. So I’m gonna start another one real quick. I won’t be blogging every inning like the other day on the new one, but every couple or three innings.

Keep posting here and there.

By glove51

April 5, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

DOB: Freshman in college in ‘82? That makes us the same age. I was moderate fan of Dire Straitrs back then. I actually had a Chet Atkins album back then (circa ‘85) that Knopfler picked on that was pretty good to put one in a mellow mood after a rough week in class (when I went that is!).

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 5, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Anyone read the Press Pass from http://www.atlantabraves.com? I like it; there’s a lot of game info to read while anxiously awaiting the start.

FYI, the last time the Braves opened the season with a series sweep was 1995, when they swept a two-game set from the Dodgers. They swept a four-game set from SD and a three-game from LA in 1994 to start the year 7-0.

I know nothing is for certain, but winning today and sweeping the Mets would be WONDERFUL!

By ssiscribe

April 5, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

KJ’s struggles continue: Strikes out against Adam Eaton to start the game.

DOB, they said it’s 43 with a 24-mph wind up there. Will probably be the same back home this weekend, from what we hear from the weatherfolks.

—30—

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP That’s good advice, this is all just raggin and taggin, nothing personal REALLY. It’s just fan-on-fan bloggin & ribbin.

SJA I don’t speak Jackass but I’m guessing your saying something “SHAADDDDUUUUPP!’

I’ll take that under advice and file it away in my circular file.

By rammerjammer

April 5, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Gametime temp, 43, with 24 mph winds. DOB, is your window open? Whoo!

By ssiscribe

April 5, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Throwing error on Howard on a ball hit by Chipper. First and second, one out for AJ.

By the way, brawl game was Aug. 12, 1984 against San Diego. I remember because I was there. Sunday afternoon. Game delayed an hour-plus by rain. Pascual Perez hit Alan Wiggins with the first pitch of the game and it was on from then.

And yes, Horner did come out of the press box and change into his uniform. I want to say it was Champ Summers of the Padres who Horner confronted, but memory is starting to get a big shaky.

—30—

By Renegator

April 5, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Hey, here’s a surprise - Kelly Johnson opened the game with… a strikeout. Shocker. Bases juiced for McCann.

By ssiscribe

April 5, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

MCCANN CAN AND DOES AGAIN: Two-run single to left-center to drive in two runs. AJ to third. Braves 2, Phillies 0, one out, Frenchy up.

—30—

By Rodger

April 5, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Man, that made Frenchy’s K’s look productive!

By 22oz

April 5, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

How convenient we’ve been talking about Francouer.

By NO CHOP 4-U

April 5, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I made the fatal mistake of taking it personal Caveman22 and now I’m in the hole for I don’t know how long. You can say I’ve gone underground. Let me be a lesson to all of you.

By OddJob

April 5, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

I can’t think of a player in the game I’d trade McCann for strait up.Frenchy showed some patience that at bat,not a good result but a good sign.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 5, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

So caveshyt—you doin’ comedy now, or is this just caveshyt bein’ caveshyt?…

By meansonny

April 5, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Shawn I don’t have a problem with differences in opinion regarding what stats are most valued. Fact is, we probably value different styles of pitchers.

I still like opposing hitters AVG. Your stats might not value a ground ball pitcher who can keep the ball in the infield. Or a pitcher like Macay McBride who has opposing lefthanders hitting a measly .178 with 45K’s and 11BB in his career. ERA, although like you say is heavily dependant on the quality of a defense, still recognizes the ability of a pitcher getting his way out of jams.

Regardless, I respect all your points. Fact is, no stats will beat watching players or listening to players and coaches tell the Game Day experience.

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

ssiscribe Thanks for the memory’s. I wanted to say Perez b/c if I also recall this was after a previous game with some beaners in it. Good Recall on that. Used to love that quick back and forth head snap Perez would go when he struck out a batter. I sure the opponents did too.

no chop you know I would have come down and gotten the beer from me first, drank it down, worked me for another, and then gone all postal on me. You know, no sense in wasting the chance for free beer. But then again, how much logic can you expect from a people who deliberately cheer for the Meatheads.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 5, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

We missed out shot at ARod years ago.

Wayne, you should have said, “We dodged the sentence of having Arod years ago.”

As great as he is, I wouldn’t want him or his paycheck on my team.

By Rodger

April 5, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

That was a great shot-Phillies 1915 banner. Wow-they’ve had some recent success!

By Chuck

April 5, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

ssiscribe It was Champ Summers, and it was an insane game. By the end of the game, the dugouts were completely empty. Only players involved in the game could be in the dugout or on the field.

By caveman22

April 5, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

See now that’s what I’m talking about. Real lifelongbravesfans with some real knowledge of the yesteryears.

You know when I was 10 I got free tix for straight A’s and me and my dad went to a game with a bag full of sloppy joes. We were sitting down by the braves dugout cuz there were only 3000 at the game and nobody cared. This man was walking by my aisle seat and ask me what I was eating b/c it smelled good. I told him sloppy joe and he offered me a footlong hotdog and some cotton candy in trade. My dad was all smiling and laughing and told me I should take the deal. After he came back my dad was shaking his hand and was really happy to be talking to him . I ask my dad if worked with him at delta and my dad said no , that guy owns the braves. Ted Turner was so cool back then.

By sammyintheville

April 5, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Braves are kicking tail. It’s 8 to 1 and Chuck James just got a swinging strike out of the reigning NL MVP, who by the way is now 0 for 9 against him

By Chuck

April 5, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

caveman22 I kept just missing Straight A’s for things like handwriting, so I never got the free tix. Even then, I knew handwriting was bogus—we’d all be typing everything in the future.

And, yes, Ted was lots of fun back in the day. Used to banter with him when I went autograph seeking down by the dugout (I think he promised to take my dad out for martinis).

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 5, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

TheJackAss was more familiar with ol’ Jane—Ted didn’t excite me at all…

By DAP

April 5, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

in this game we saw what essentially was a bullpen meltdown. its definetly not good that we couldnt seem to find the strikezone at the end. we are lucky that we had such a big lead.

i think bobby made a mistake by taking chuck james out after the 5th. why would you do that? hes pitching well, you have 4 innings to go and your bullpen has worked alot in the past few days. i dont care if you had two guys in there that havent pitched yet. that was stupid. james needed to go at least one more inning.

but im glad we won!! go braves!

By David O'Brien

April 5, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

DAP, he took him out because he threw 92 pitches in five innings in bitter cold and had an 8-1 lead. Don’t be ridiculous. Calling that move “stupid” was, well…

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 5, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

I hear that the Braves have one of the best bullpens in MLB—-but at the going pace…how long will it be until those “three” guys are worn out?…

By DAP

April 5, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

DOB, haha, ok you got me. actually, as soon as i posted that, i thought about his pitch count and went to check.

my b.

By Dave knockahomer

April 6, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

I scanned the previous notes and good ole junk but did y’all notice that the phillies WALKED MCCANN to get at Francouer!? oh what joy!!!!!!!!
Evidently the phillies KNOW more about Francour—the media posterboy—than anyone! He scares no one! now once in awhile, he get a hit or homer….heck, even a blind hog can pick up something now and then. GO MCCANN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Far superior to Murphy and don’t insult this amazing McCann by putting him in Murphy’s league. McCann outshines him by far!!!!!!!!!! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!

By Dave knockahomer

April 6, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

I scanned the previous notes and good ole junk but did y’all notice that the phillies WALKED MCCANN to get at Francouer!? oh what joy!!!!!!!!
Evidently the phillies KNOW more about Francour—the media posterboy—than anyone! He scares no one! now once in awhile, he get a hit or homer….heck, even a blind hog can pick up something now and then. GO MCCANN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Far superior to Murphy and don’t insult this amazing McCann by putting him in Murphy’s league. McCann outshines him by far!!!!!!!!!! GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!!

By LadyBravesFan

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

Hey Victor, that was a great story, thank you for sharing it with us.

By Steve Geddie

April 6, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Anyone else struck by the irony of the Braves locking up McCann long term prior to working out a deal with Francouer? Those in the know say that Frenchy asked for double what the Braves initially offered. McCann is clearly the more valuable offensive player. Word to the wise: Francouer is heading down the road towards becoming the next Preston Wilson. That is NOT a compliment.

By jason

April 6, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

my goodness I am watching the game on TBS and I feel like I am listening to a Mets telecast!!! Where are the good old days when Skip and Pete hated the opponent and let us know about it. Joe Simpson, apparently, is hired and payed by the Mets. When you are the telecast for the team on your tv station you ARE SUPPOSED to be a homer!!! Why in the world do we interview Glavine a guy who screwed us for leverage in the offseason???? It is tough to watch(I mean listen to)