AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > April > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USIn-game blog: Braves going for a sweep
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The wind is howling, the fans are bundled up like it’s a Falcon-Eagles game on a raw day here in Philly that feels like November. But the sun is poking through the clouds and we’re playing some ‘ball, folks.
They’ve just finished playing their Jay-Z “Show Me What You Got” introduction video montage and now Adam Eaton is throwing the first pitch.
Braves are going for a sweep today with Chuck James toeing the slab. The lefty hates day games (as he said after each one in spring training), but we’ll see if he can get the juices going for his season debut (if not, then we’ll know for certain that the famously oblivious James, he of the “uncluttered mind” as my man Joe Simpson puts it, is operating on another mental plane than most of us).
OK, hot dog wrappers, napkins and other garbage just flew from the stands. Like I said, the wind is howling.
Ohhhh, but now a ball just flew from the hand of first baseman Ryan Howard, whose throw to second base on a Chipper fielder’s choice was just a bit high and wide of the base. Throwing error puts runners at first and second with one out for the Braves.
And we’re off. It’d be a good time for Andruw Jones to join the party about now, huh? He brings a .100 average (1-for-10) to the plate…. He just swung through a 3-1 pitch to go to a full count…. And now he’s walked.
Bases loaded for hot-hitting Brian McCann.
And he delivers yet again. Two-run single to the left-field corner. Another opposite-field hit from The Man of the Braves’ young season. It’s 2-0 Braves.
Now Francoeur has grounded into an inning-ending double play. Headed to the bottom of the first. Someone wake Chuck and tell him it’s time to pitch.
Keep it going here, folks. I’ll chat with you as the game moves along.
TOP OF THE THIRD
Well, Chuck doesn’t appear to have had had any difficulties getting up and into this one. The lefty looks tough so far. Gave up a leadoff walk in the first inning, but the nothing else in the inning _ sacrifice, fly ball, fly ball.
And in the second inning he started out with two strikeouts of Pat “The Bat … With the Hole In It” Burrell and ex-Bravo Wes Helms. Rowand singled before a groundout by Barajas.
Braves got the two-run single by McCann in the first, but only a walk and a single since. Eaton’s got a couple of double-play grounders from Francoeur in the first and Chipper in the third, Chipper’s coming after an Edgar Renteria leadoff single.
Edgar’s got two singles in his first two at-bats, after going 4-for-10 with two homers in the first two games.
At the other extreme, Andruw just struck out to end the third inning. He came in 1-for-10 and has drawn a walk and a strikeout in his two times up today. He can look so bad and then so good, the nature of a streak hitter, of which he most definitely is one. So far, he’s not looked very good. But we all know how quickly it can change with him.
BOTTOM OF FOURTH
Chuck J is in a bit of a bind here. After a leadoff double by Utley, he got a home-run-in-an-elevator high popup to Thorman, but Burrell hit a sinker liner to left and Langerhans tried a diving catch that didn’t work out well at all.
The ball landed a few inches in front of his outstretched glove, and Burrell had an RBI double. Helms followed with a single, but Burrell isn’t fast and held at third.
OK, Chuck, as Jay-Z said, show us what you got:
And Chuck does. Strikes out Rowand, then gets an inning-ending fly by Barajas.
He’s Chuck James, beey…
TOP OF FIFTH
For those already writing off Kelly Johnson, that two-run homer on an 0-2 pitch to trigger a six-run fifth inning is a big reason the Braves believe he’ll do just fine this season as their second baseman and leadoff man.
I hope that Jimmy Rollins is getting his answers ready for the postgame interviews, when the hard-bitten Philly scribes are going to ask him if he still thinks the Phillies are the team to beat in the NL East, as he’s said so often the past few months.
The Braves just put it to them in a fifth inning that’s got the boo-birds out in force here at corporate-bank field, where a stunned audience is watching the Braves put the finishing touches on a three-game series sweep to start the season.
The Braves chased Adam Eaton from the game in the fifth, when they totaled five hits including doubles by Andruw Jones and Scott Thorman. The big rookie laced a two-run double and was caught in a rundown between second and third to end the inning.
TOP OF SEVENTH
Villarreal gave up a run in the sixth after Chuck James finished off a solid debut.
Strong work from James, who gave up six hits and one run in five innings and made big pitches in several big situations. There were two on in the fourth when he struck out Aaron Rowand and induced a Rod Barajas to get out of the inning.
And there were two Phillies aboard when he struck out big Ryan Howard to end the inning. Good stuff from the country-boy lefty from Mableton. An encouraging performance, especially for those wondering if a sophomore jinx might await.
BOTTOM OF NINTH
The wind chill is below freezing now, and we’ve had some very light snow flurries, believe it or not. Macay McBride is in to close this out, but he’s faced four batters and given up three walks. Yikes.
And that’s it for him. Paronto’s getting the call. I tell you what, McBride just doesn’t seem to respond when he’s used in anything other than his role, which he excels in _ situational lefty, getting out lefty hitters in big situations. But not pitching whole innings in games that aren’t close, and not facing right-handers in general.
At least that’s my take on the situation, after watching him for a couple of seasons.
OK, Paronto just walked Helms to bring in a run. This is getting ridiculous. I know it’s cold and all, but….
Paronto strikes out Rowand. Two outs. Bases still loaded.
Soon as he puts the Phillies out of their misery, I’ll head downstairs and see what the fellas have to say about facing the Mets. Before the game no one wanted to talk about it much, and Bobby said he honestly hadn’t given the Mets a moment’s thought to that point.
Which is good, considering they still had a game to play against “the team to beat” (OK, enough piling on Jimmy Rollins. I don’t blame the guy for having confidence and trying to get his teammates to believe this is their year. But I’d be willing to wager it’s not, if I were a betting man.)…
Wait, I’m still here. Was about ready to head downstairs when Paronto issued another walk. Unbelievable. That’s seven batters, five walks, two runs in the inning. Bobby’s seen enough. Calls on Soriano. First-pitch swing, Carlos Ruiz popup.
Game is mercifully over.
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Comments
By Matthew, Walter's Dad
April 5, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Man DOB, the muckity-mucks like you at the AJC I see.
Well, I can tell when an employer likes an employee by how hard they work you.
You must be very well liked. Keep up the outstanding work!
By Chop Chop
April 5, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
I thought Howard had a homer there. Phew.
Not the prettiest first inning for Chuck, but it’ll do.
By Greg in TN
April 5, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Nice, nice, nice.
Philly is suffering from a B-Mac attack. In my mind, it was important to get out of the gate fast today.
ssiscribe, I remember the Sunday tilt with the Padres distinctly for several things. Horner coming out to help Pascual Perez with the Padre in hot pursuit (I was thinking it was Kurt Bevacqua, but that’s been several hot dogs and Mountain Dews ago), and the Padre’s pitching staff that tried (and comically failed) at least twice to hit Perez on subsequent at-bats.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
dangit almost first
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
Good first inning. Chuckie got threw it. Eaton sounds like he’s scuffling.
McCann, like a rock. Simply clutch.
Less than 28 hours until the first pitch of the home opener …
—30—
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Right now we are a two man team - McCann and Renteria.
By T-Town Dawg
April 5, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
I think KJ is snakebit. I don’t know how hard that line drive was hit, but somehow Eaton speared it. Took away KJ’s first hit and a RBI.
By nash
April 5, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this
McCann should be batting 4th in the order ahead of Andruw, at least until he gets going. I hope yesterday’s 6 spot was just an “experiment” by Bobby.
By Ssgreeno
April 5, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
What was the great attraction for keeping Kelly Johnson on the team, other than having a relatively cheap salary? Prado seems better all-around for the position. At least he could get a hit.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
April 5, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Y’all keep it going. I’m stuck at work with no other way to keep up except the blog. So we finally scored without the benefit of a HR?
By Matthew, Walter's Dad
April 5, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
Wow…I got the first post! That’s a first, for me!
Go Braves!
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Renegator Just wait till our Gymdawgs get a hold of your gatorettes. YEAH , now we be spankin that butt by like .001544132 points. OH YEAH what a SMACKDOWN!!
c’mon —- it’s somethin we can beat you at.
By ElbravoX
April 5, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
Francour needs to adjust if he wants a truck load of cash.
By lil' Chopper
April 5, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
Chipper and Andruw need to get hot today because something tells me we will need to score a lot more than 2 runs to win this one.
By 22oz
April 5, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
I wish Chipper would quit making me look bad.
By Thrillhouse44
April 5, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Alright, folks. I’m heading down to A-town now. See ya at the opener!
Go Braves!
By David O'Brien
April 5, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
By the way, forgot to mention earlier: Hampton didn’t feel too good the day after his great batting-practice simulated inning Sunday. I know, I know: At this point you folks are probably about as tired of the rollercoaster rehab reports as I am of providing them.
But just wanted to let you know, he didn’t seem too upbeat today. Said there was some soreness the next day and he hasn’t felt as good since as he did in the days leading up to it.
He’s supposed to throw a bullpen this weekend, probably Saturday, in Atlanta before they set his minor league rehab assignment schedule.
By jjgrogan
April 5, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
DOB: With the bullpen working through two extra inning games, is there any concern today with how we would close out a lead. Does James need to go 7 or 8?
By A.J.
April 5, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
I actually liked Francoeur’s flyout that time. I didn’t see if it was a good or bad at-bat, but he did inside out it the other way with some power. He didn’t kill it, but it was well hit. Could have just as easy been a hit.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
April 5, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Is it the elbow or the oblique that doesn’t feel good to Hampton.
By Tricky Dick
April 5, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
DOB; When you say Hampton didn’t feel good, does that mean his oblique or his arm?
By rammerjammer
April 5, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the Hampton update.
Anyone who thinks we should trade from our pitching depth needs to have their head examined.
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
Caveman22 they just announced that Billy Donovan is staying at UF instead of going to UK. That is some good news (for us). The bad news is that all 5 of the starting 5 will be gone.
Surely there is something besides women’s gymnastics that you can beat us at. Let’s see. Mullets - no we got you beat there… Jean shorts - nope, we got you there too.
LOL - gotta be able to laugh at yourself.
On a baseball note - does anyone know where Kelly Johnson lives? I’m going to go to his house and break his arm so he has to go on the DL. I can’t take it anymore. Someone rip me about sample size…
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
So I see that the Phillies manager swapped his batting order back - Howard batting 4th, Utley batting 3rd. I guess he couldn’t take the heat after two games.
By OddJob
April 5, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
DOB That play by Langerhans is exactly what I was talking about a month or so back.That is a mistake he makes too often.It’s the big difference in a great fielder like Andruw and a good fielder without the instinct to make the right move at the right time.It will cost us four or five games a year if he can’t judge those type plays in center.
By rammerjammer
April 5, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
71 pitches in four innings?!?
We’ll see Oscar and Tyler make their season debuts today.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
rental-gator I got it!!
We got more players under arrest right now than you do so nah-nah-nannah-nah!!
Also have a much better fake ID industry in place. But don’t worry I hear you guys are closing in on minor possessions and student loan defaults.
Go SEC!!!!
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Chuck Wagon road that sucker outta the cabinet for sure in that inning.
By A.J.
April 5, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
You guys really need to lay off Kelly. So he’s 0-for-11. Here’s a list of other people who have gone 11 at bats without a hit:
EVERYONE WHO EVER PLAYED ANY MAJOR AMOUNT OF TIME.
At this point he’s one hit away from tying up Pujols, I bet the Cards are going to bench him too, maybe there is a minor leaguer who hit good in spring to replace him.
Hold on, that’s stupid. Obviously, I’m not comparing Johnson to Pujols in terms of talent, but you know why you know Pujols is good? Because he has already proven himself.
EVERYONE INVOLVED WITH THE BRAVES not just Bobby and JS, think this guy is going to hit .300 and get on base.
Guy hasn’t played a real game in over a year. Plus he is in the greatest pressure situation of his life. Plus, it’s not like anyone other than McCann or Rentaria are hitting much anyway.
When he came up the first time, Johnson went 0-for 15, after he finally got his first hit, he went another 0-13. Then he won the NL Player of the Week.
He absolutely roped that last one that Eaton grabbed. Give him more than 3 days before you banish him.
Prado may be a solid major leaguer, but we’ve already seen flashes of how good Johnson can be. Right as I speak the kid is taking his 302nd major league at bat, not to mention his 12th as an every day player.
OH WOULD YOU LOOK AT THAT. DO YOU THINK HE MIGHT BE OK!
THAT’S 1-12. AND IT WILL ONLY GET BATTER.
By Rodger
April 5, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
STOP THE PRESSES!!!
KJ just HIT ONE…and it went out!
By KJ
April 5, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Still hating KJ? Sample Size that My Friends.
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
KJ’s first hit of the season is a two-run homer. Scores Chuck James ahead of him.
—30—
By rammerjammer
April 5, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
WAY TO GO KJ
By A.J.
April 5, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
i mean better.
by the way. I really can’t stand Chip calling Tom Gordon, “Flash.”
I may be wrong, but i don’t think he goes by that. That’s one of the things I crucify Jon Miller for. I wish he’d stop.
By Ssgreeno
April 5, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
I need to rip Kelly Johnson all the time, if he’ll get a homer every time…But 0 for 11 was getting tiresome, all the same. We need to sweep to stay up with the Mets
By MS
April 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
All the KJ-haters can suck on THAT! He’s going to do just fine. The guy gets on base, works pitchers, can steal a bag, ans as we just saw, can hit it out of the park as well. Give the kid some time…
By Rodger
April 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
ANDRUW TOO!! OMG!
By Seymour
April 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
way to go KJ!!!!!!
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
The cold hitters are heating up: AJ with a run-scoring double. 5-1 Braves.
—30—
By journalist jimmy smith
April 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
this in-game blog demonstrates dob’s prowess as blogmaster. mccann is being intentionally walked to pitch to francoeur!
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
KJ the maaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!
By KJ
April 5, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
When they came up two years ago, did you think you would see the day where they would walk McCann to get to Frenchy? I did not.
By Art in Tenn
April 5, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this
Man alive, is there any such thing as an ugly lefty swing??? Kelly Johnson just waited beautifuly on a hanging curve that he rocketed out over the right field wall.
And as I’m typing, Chipper walks and scores on an Andruw Jones gapper to left center, 5-1 good guys.
What kind of GREAT early season series are we looking at with the 3-0 Metropolitans coming to town this weekend? Oh, to return to my Georgia home for just a weekend…
By rammerjammer
April 5, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
They intentionally walked McCann, trailing by four runs??? Son! That is not just respect…that is mortal fear.
By iluvmccann
April 5, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
Long time reader, first time blogger……….Am I the only one that is a little concerned that the only way we can seem to score any runs is by homers? With the exception of Andruw’s (finally) double, it seems like we can’t ever just hit anyone home. Granted, HR’s are great but is it possible to get to dependant on them??
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
You’re right KJ’s average is up to a robust .083. We should stop ripping him - he has totally proved us wrong. One homerun - one hit in first three games isn’t going to make me like him. I still say he hits under .250 this year - no doubt.
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
Ahhh, the bats are finally coming to life.
By rammerjammer
April 5, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
THORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
By Jake
April 5, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Don’t you need permission from Major League Baseball to recount the events in a MLB game?
By Jake
April 5, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
…express written consent I think is the legalese.
By fastasballs
April 5, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
Great AB by Frenchy! He looked like a hitter for once instead of a hacker.
Looks like the O woke up today as a whole. Hitting from KJ, AJ, Frenchy & Thorman has been nice to see.
Looks like a sweep in the making!
By Centerfield
April 5, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Haha..it’s baseball season folks..GO BRAVES!!! Keep pounding the Phillies!
By Paul Hamilton
April 5, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this
a run is a run, who cares what type of hit it is?
By Bob
April 5, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this
Braves looking good. Can’t believe the idiots who want to bench someone for struggling for the first 3 games. Plain a* stupid.
AJ, Tom Gordon has been known as Flash since at least his Kansas City Royal days in the late 80s. He is very well known as Flash Gordon.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
I liking “The Mighty Thor” tag. LEW I saw it in your comment, do you get credit for that?? what kind of a world do we live in where a first series sweep is cause for concern? YOOOOOOOOOOO — WE’RE WINNING !!!
Suddenly I here nothing from the rabble of “enenmy” bloggers.
And rental-gator I also heard that our public defenders office has a higher case load per lawyer than yours. SO — Go Misdemeanors and Court Fines!!!
By paul Hamilton
April 5, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Braves teams have always been fairly reliant on the long ball, nothing new really.
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
OOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
Here comes the SWEEP!!
GO BRAVES
By Art in Tenn
April 5, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this
I think the offense will be fine. It’s a cold early season series. The bats will heat up as the weather gets warmer.
By MEB
April 5, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
iluvmccann… keep complaining! Baseball in April rarely matches baseball in October. Winning games right now to stay in the hunt is what matters. Sweeping the Phillies any time is sweet! GO BRAVES!!!
By bruce
April 5, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
are the phillies fans walking out of the stadium yet? I missed going to this series, they are a rough crowd.
By fastasballs
April 5, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
The Vulcher is warming up.
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
BRING IN THAT PHILLY PEN TO THROW SOME FUEL ON THE FIRE!!!!
Man what a great way to start the season. And with our pen… GAME OVER MAN! GAME OVER!
By rammerjammer
April 5, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this
Good move to pull James. It’s a long season and 92 pitches is plenty for the first game.
Oscar in the 6th? It ain’t over yet, folks. Gotta play four more innings. Set those brooms down.
By AdirondackDave
April 5, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
HEY.. can somebody report the score, I gather we’re pounding them…
By Drew
April 5, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
DOB, was that soreness with Hampton in the oblique or in the arm?
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
If the Braves can get 12 more outs, it will mark Atlanta’s first 3-0 start in 13 years.
The 1994 Braves won their first three games, en route to a 7-0 start that featured a Kent Mercker no-hitter of the Dodgers.
And, if memory serves, the Braves were on the verge of going 8-0, but lost the home opener in the ninth inning on a Barry Bonds homer off John Smoltz.
Gotta run holler at some folks since it’s deadline and we’re still waiting on a couple of things. Later, folks.
—30—
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
Caveman22 - we have more DUIs than you.
By KJ
April 5, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this
Idiots. The O did not wake up today. When they face good pitchers like they did the last two days, hits are hard to find. You have to make do. When they face garbage like Eaton, they are going to look real good all of a sudden. Baseball is a game of pitching matchups. Your momentum is only as good as the next day’s starting pitcher. The simplemindedness of some fans in this day and age is astounding.
By fastasballs
April 5, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
This is the first time in a long time that I have felt at ease with a seven run lead, lol.
By Renegator
April 5, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
Alright kiddies - my 3 day weekend starts now. See you at the Ted. Have a good one.
Caveman22 - we can continue this another day… get some ammo ready.
By Braves fan 202
April 5, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
Alright now bravos lets sweep the mets
By GhOsT oF lArOcHe
April 5, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
Staked to an 8-1 lead, the best James can give you guys is five innings? Pretty lame. Headed into a series against a potent lineup with Davies and Redman expected to start and the Braves likely needing all the pen help they can get against the Mets, the pen has to be burned up by the inability of James to go more than 5. No matter what the box score says, that was a poor start by James. Wasting the pen in the sixth inning with an 8-1 lead. Pretty lame.
By MS
April 5, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this
DOB, was Hampton’s soreness in his side or his elbow?
Thorman just picked a nice on out of the dirt from Edgar…
By Braves fan 202
April 5, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
These philly fans are so gay. yesterday they were throwin stuff at frenchy and i love how they cheer cuz they scored a run to go down by 6. These are grade A fairweather fans also. Anyways wheres NO CHOP ZONE? Mets are goin down! Imagine what it would be like if they swept the mets. I just had a tear thinking about it.
By AdirondackDave
April 5, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Where is DOB? Crave a scoring summary…
By MEB
April 5, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Adirondack… Braves 8-2, Top of the 7th.
By Ghost of Laroche
April 5, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
And, if memory serves, the Braves were on the verge of going 8-0, but lost the home opener in the ninth inning on a Barry Bonds homer off John Smoltz.
Wow! Does not shock me at all that the “ace” Smoltz would be the one to blow something big for the Braves. He has made a career out of coming up short in big spots.
By Rodger
April 5, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Either TP/Hoss/Mac or Bobby needs to get in Francouer’s face, or maybe he needs to sit a game or two. 0-2 and he’s swinging as hard as he can at everything. Get under control Frenchy!
By Sir Stealth
April 5, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Is it wasting post space to remind anyone not to respond to any trolls?
GO BRAVES
By ObiWanKobe
April 5, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this
GhOsT oF lArOcHe
Let’s see how your Mets AARP rotation will do against our line-up. Beltran probably won’t even take the bat off of his shoulder. Beating the Cardinals is nothing to crow about. They were the worst World Series champion in the history of baseball and only got worse this year.
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
DOB, bro, it’s gonna be cold at home. But I promise you this: no snow.
Hear it’s spittin a few snowflakes up there in Philly, as the Braves close out a super start to the season.
—30—
By Rodger
April 5, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth-ObiWan has taught you well.
Too bad he didn’t remember.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
I’m only going to say this once. Smoltzie pitches big in big games whether or not he wins or loses in inconsequential to the fact that when the Braves get into a big game Smoltzie is a big dog of choice.
OH YEAH — See you got to actually be in big games to have a reputation for them. And all of the Braves pitchers have pitched in BIG GAMES for the last 15 years, that’s right I’m including the year before they started the streak, they didn’t just learn over night. And that is the only time I will even respond to an idiotic statement like that. I much prefer to just make fun of the bloggers themselves then to give there insane opinions any credence.
Credence Clearwater Rivival DOB what are your thoughts on them as a group??
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this
I’m only going to say this once. Smoltzie pitches big in big games whether or not he wins or loses in inconsequential to the fact that when the Braves get into a big game Smoltzie is a big dog of choice.
OH YEAH — See you got to actually be in big games to have a reputation for them. And all of the Braves pitchers have pitched in BIG GAMES for the last 15 years, that’s right I’m including the year before they started the streak, they didn’t just learn over night. And that is the only time I will even respond to an idiotic statement like that. I much prefer to just make fun of the bloggers themselves then to give there insane opinions and credence.
Credence Clearwater Rivival DOB what are your thoughts on them as a group??
By GhostIsToast
April 5, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this
“made a career out of coming up short in big spots”???
by “big spots,” you mean something like, say, postseason games - which Smoltz has more postseason wins than any other pitcher ever?
ah, the AJC comments sections…where any dummy can make false statements…
By OddJob
April 5, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
I wonder how many experts would pick these guys ahead of the Braves today ? Now let’s take two or three from the Mets and strike fear in those of faint heart!
By Sir Stealth
April 5, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
Thorman shoulda stretched on that nice play by Renteria. Don’t wanna hear any “Laroche woulda made that play” comments though. Still, better not let a big rally begin.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
and then I went and said it twice
geez , I’m a boner today
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this
Staked to an 8-1 lead James hits the showers to rest and give some other arms a chance to shine. No need to gas him out in his first game of the season.
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
The octapus is in there. He looks so old these days.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
caveman—do some comedy…
By Chop Chop
April 5, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this
LaRoche woulda made that play. Hahaha!
As happy as I am that things have started off well, I’m not sold on the Braves. We’re three games into a 162-game season. Talk to me in a couple of months. If things are going well then, I won’t be so skeptical.
By Rodger
April 5, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this
Looks cold and barren in Philly…
sagebrush blowing across the field…
BRING ON THE METS!
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
sja yeah right dude, my friends hit me with that too, then I tell them something hilarious and there like — that’s not funny. But if I hit them with it out of the blue, I got them rolling on the floor.
So thanks but no thanks, so how’s mrs. jackass treating you these days?
and are there any smaller asses on the way?
By Rodger
April 5, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this
I guess McBride isn’t making many fans. Everyone’s ready to go home.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this
SSWWWWWWEEEEEEEPPPPPPPPPPPPPP
SSWWWWWWEEEEEEEETTTTTTTTTTTTT
YO NO-NUTS-4-ME AND METRO PUNK
SUCK ON THAT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Gil in Mechanicsville
April 5, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
Walking bases loaded is not funny!!!
By Chop Chop
April 5, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this
Yeah. This was here last year.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
The bullpen is looking a little “familiar”—-caveman…say something intelligent…go ahead…at least try…
By Lew
April 5, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this
It’s got to be terrible trying to get loose in that weather.
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this
Looks like the ump doesn’t like the low strike. Or are these all in the dirt. GameDay makes them look boarderline.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
intelligent , I thought this was a blog………
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
1 and done. Does that qualify as a save? The tying run at the plate. The go-ahead run on deck… I think Gange got a save this way back during his streak.
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
Sweep indeed, the ninth inning notwithstndings.
Bring on the Mets!
—30—
By Sir Stealth
April 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
That was pretty annoying. Hopefully throwing one pitch didn’t affect Soriano too much, but McBride and Paronto should be embarassed. Its not just that we had to burn Paronto and bring in Soriano, but it also lessens the bullpen mystique that we had going this year, makes people think about things going wrong like last year and the Division Series before that, and kills what would have been outstanding momentum going into the Mets series. Hope nobody was paying too much attention.
By OddJob
April 5, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this
Soriano never looked back to see where the ball went,same as the strike out the other night,now that’s a cool dude !
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
Yes it was! Soriano got the save. So far we are flawless in the save department.
By Dsquared
April 5, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
Poor Philthies, we tried to get them to have a miracle comeback and they couldn’t even get a hit.
By victor
April 5, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
What is wron wiht our pen… they have been putting to man on base during las three games… Gonzo shaky, wicky shaky, villarreal shaky, yites shaky, mc bride S#=!%, paronto s#%&s!!! I mean 5 BB in one inning… and I am still waiting for one, two, three inning!!! I am bit worried… I know it is to early, but…
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this
Unbelievable!…
By Chop Chop
April 5, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth, that ninth inning basically finishes off any optimism I might have had about the Braves this year. My life, while not over, is somewhat diminished by those five walks. I just hope we can get an out against the Mets.
By Coach
April 5, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this
A win is a win and a sweep in Philly to start the season is sweet , but five walks in the ninth is the perfect way to lose a job. After all , there are three or four guys in Richmond who are more than capable. Then again , I asked myself , why the hell did Cox take Yates out after just one inning and then I remembered game four of the 96 world series where Mike Bielecki cruised through the sixth and seventh innings before Cox inexplicably brought Wohlers in to pitch the eighth and the rest as they say is history. The moral of this story is : If it’s not broke , don’t try to fix it.
By NO CHOP 4-U
April 5, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this
Here come the Mets…..
By David O'Brien
April 5, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this
The only thing that hurts (potentially) is using Soriano, who had to warm up to throw one pitch. What if all three this weekend are close? No way Bobby would use Soriano four straight days, and maybe not even three straight, which means if they have a tight game Saturday in the Smoltz/Glav duel, Soriano might not be available just because he had to come in and clean up today.
Hey, after talking to the guys, however, I will say it sounds like it was absolutely brutal trying to come in and pitch in that. They all said it was tough gripping the ball and throwing a strike. Bobby said he couldn’t even grip the ball when he tried rubbing them up a little as he waited for new pitchers to come in.
Anyway … all in all, helluva series for the Bravos. What a setup for the weekend.
By Braves fan 202
April 5, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this
Mets are goin down, however they looked good. If they win that series this town will go crazy for the braves. After the mets they got the Nats so hopefully they will get a real good start
By Braves fan 202
April 5, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this
Mets are goin down, however they looked good. If they win that series this town will go crazy for the braves. After the mets they got the Nats so hopefully they will get a real good start
By NO CHOP 4-U
April 5, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this
IT’s a REAL long season. So many ups and downs. For the Brave fans this is an up time. After this weekend series against the METS, it’ll be a down time……sorry
By Braves fan 202
April 5, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this
So DOB what are your thoughts for the season now that you have seen a little bit. Ne one that thinks they know what will come of the season gimme some thoughts
By Sir Stealth
April 5, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, if you can watch that ninth without feeling ill, then I guess maybe I can too. Despite your implication, I feel very optimistic about this series and the whole season. Obviously there’s little better than opening up the season with a sweep of the Phils. That ninth sucked though and wasn’t a joke.
Congrats to Bobby and the Braves on an outstanding start. Great work Chuck James. Here’s hoping we don’t rest McCann til the game after the Mets series. Congrats to Edgar for continuing to lead the team from under the radar. Congrats to K-Jo on making his first hit of the year count for a lot. And here’s to the efficiency of Rafael Soriano. Hope he makes it look that easy all season long.
By Chop Chop
April 5, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this
DOB, I can understand that the conditions were really bad, but the Phillie relievers didn’t seem to be bothered much by them. They struck out nine Braves and only walked one.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this
So caveman22—-What does the 22 stand for…your IQ?…
By metsmanintheatl
April 5, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
better be excited because sweep this weekend WILL BE OF YOU….GLAVINE AND NEW EAST DIVISION DOMINATORS RULE…GO METROPOLITANS!!STOMP THEM UNBRAVES!!
By Chop Chop
April 5, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this
Sir, I’m just joshing. The ninth inning was crap, but at least the guys screwing up weren’t Gonzalez, Soriano and Wickman. When Soriano came into the game (would’ve been nicer if he didn’t need to, but…), I felt confident the team would get a win. That’s a nice feeling to have after last season’s debacle.
By LivininAL
April 5, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this
Twenty Six Innings of baseball pitched well Bring on the Mets.
By Braves fan 202
April 5, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this
Metsfanintheatl Did you forget about the past 14 years of your life?
By Richard Cory
April 5, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this
Now SJA does comedy, and his is better than our resident comedian. Go figure.
By Rosalynn
April 5, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this
Pete Van Wieren said the Easta Bunna will be at Turna Field this weekend makin’ pictures with all the children. That is so nice. Now, I’d like to discuss gripping balls in cold weatha. If Bobba couldn’t grip the ball when he was a rubbin’ it up, how can we expect McCah McBride to grip the ball when he has to throw to a Philadelphia Philla? I try not to be critical of anah Atlanta Braves playuh but that Francoeur boah looks like a little leaguah swingin’ at those balls low and awah and those ball high and tight and those balls thrown most anywheah he can’t reach. McCann’s Dadda could help that boah if that boy can be helped. If it is snowin’ on Easta will that cause Easta Egg Hunts to be cancelled?
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
April 5, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
I like the “new look” pen, but I’m hoping Bobby doesn’t pull a Torre or a Frank Robinson and pitch ‘em (Gonzalez and Soriano particularly) til their arms fall off.
By Ghost of Laroche
April 5, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
SJA is a man of few words but oh so many talents. Redman is going to take a beating. John “Michael Vick” Smoltz, the pseudo ace, will be facing the true ace of those teams and will therefore come up short against another ace as always. Davies will show why he still belongs in Richmond. With Davies and Redman getting lit up this weekend, you are going to need a deep pen in this series. Thanks to James pulling a Smoltz today and coming up just short by only going 5 with an 8-1 lead, you had to burn up your pen. James coming up short today lost you at least one game this weekend. Count on it.
By The Grinch
April 5, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this
Man, I took a nap when we were up 8-1. Sounds like the pen’s a bit uneven. It’ll settle down, though. Only thing I don’t like is not having our best guys ready for the Mets. However, if we beat them with Davies and Yates it’ll be that much funnier. Opening the season with a sweep of the Phillies on the road is absolutely fantasic; that may stay in their heads all year. Whoo-ha!
By Chris
April 5, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this
metsfan, until your team wins more than 1 division title in a 15-season span, I’d suggest not making yourself look any more foolish.
How many seasons out of the past 15 have the Mets been better than the Braves? That’s right, 1.
I hope to see you at the park this weekend. Question is, how will I be able to tell you apart from the other raving, alcoholic, lunatic Mets fans?
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
Who is using multiple screen names now?????
Notice that on the second post from our caveman buddy, how the spelling of caveman becomes **caveAman
**That happens when you go in an change your screen name!
BUSTED!!**
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
sja - sweet dreams , maybe I’ll have something for you tomorrow.
In the meantime -
GO BRAVOS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now notice the name field on this next post!!!
By caveaman22
April 5, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
so glad I hooked my computer back up. sja 22 represents my jersey number that I have worn on every baseball team that I have played on. It’s a tribute to my parents , both of their birthdays (month and day) add up to 22. This number shows up a lot in my life and is a good omen. I see you have a fan in Richard Cory, maybe you could come down to the Punch Line and bring him with you for support. Tuesday night is open mike night, oh yeah , it’s also heckler night so better eat your wheaties!!!
Ghost of Laroche — what other names are you blogging under?? And when did Laroche die? Other than at the plate so far??
BUSTED!!
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
Does this mean our Caveman might be the “Ghost of LaRoche” or who else did he post under between 6:30pm and 8:30pm??
OOPS!
By Yars
April 5, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
I think the Braves will be patient with Kelly Johnson as long as he plays solid defense at 2B. He should have went 2-4 today with 3 RBI. It’s not like he’s striking out a lot. He’s hitting the ball hard, just in the wrong places. His bat will heat up over the weekend.
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
Chop: I hear what you are saying about the Phils relievers not being affected by the cold late in the game, but that doesn’t negate the possibility of it having a negative effect on certain pitchers.
When it is cold as heck out here and I am out inspecting heavy equipment, I do not perform as well either.
So, I am more forgiving of McBride and Paronto than others might be.
I also am not going to throw KJ or AJ under the bus just yet either.
By Jaq
April 5, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
Well the Braves managed to keep the MVP (most valuable phlop) from producing and came away with a magnificent sweep to phinish the phillies. Always a great way to get things started. Bring on the mets.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
If you last much longer on the blog caveshyt you will soon learn that TheJackAss needs no support in any area—and using multiple names on the blog will get you jettisoned as quickly as anything…thought that info might come in handy for you…son…
By joebrave
April 5, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this
Any one has the right to be a Mets fan,just as anyone has the right to be a stupid a*******ed j*******!!! Myself,I’d rather see the Bravos any day of the week than to look at that puke of a pitching staff in N.Y. hey Mutts fans take a valium and suck on deez!!!!
By Dsquared
April 5, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
UNBRAVES??? Dull wit on that metsmanintheatl
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this
Cavedude: Bass, thank you!
By joebrave
April 5, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this
“Ghost of Laroche” are you crazy as hell? how can you compare the great John Smoltz with that herpes infested thug wannabe Mike (the turd)Vick you might as well have called him O.J. Simpson,you have got to be the most retarded sonsabitch on this blog!!!John Smoltz has way more class and way more talent than that piece of crap QB wannabe!!!!!
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this
SJA: Thoughts after the first three games?????
My thoughts are that it is tough to get the bats going in the cold sometimes. This weekend should be fun.
(maybe I was too hard on the cavedude? He did say something about redoing his computer. Maybe I jumped the gun. Who knows??? Only the cavedude and the cybercops know for sure!)
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this
Well don’t worry SJA I only use one and it’s enough to handle anyhing the donkeyboy and his packmules can throw at me. So while I appreciate your comments,I will try to resist my “alter-ego”. yeah, whatever.
You guys really believe any of the crap you say or is that the best you can do. ONE freaking misstype. LAME!!
By joebrave
April 5, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this
We should all just give up!!! Bud Selig just called the season and anointed the Mutts W.S. Champs!! like hell He did See your sorry asses in the Atl.b***!!!!
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this
Cavedude: If I have incorrectly accused you, I would like to publicly apologize. I am doing it in bold so all can see that Wayne in Utah is secure enough with himself, to be able to admit he might be wrong!
Now I will have to be careful the rest of the year, as that uses up my one mistake I am allowed per annum.
By The Grinch
April 5, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this
Wayne, you’re correct about the multpile blogger, but I don’t think it’s caveman.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this
wayne I too am big enough to accept your apology and cleans and absolve you of all sin in this matter.
NOW — back to mindless blogging, ribbing, and inadvertant character assasination.
Let’s find a METS fan and triple-team him in the corner!!
By joebrave
April 5, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this
and Now Joebrave says He likes the feeling he’s got about The Braves! I like the pitching ,defense will be ok,hitting will be ok, but notice the fire in everyone’s play and attitude!I say OH HELL YEAH!!! GO BRAVES!!!!!
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this
caveman, please accept the sincerest of apologies from TheJackAss!…I didn’t realize that 22 was so sentimentally meaningful to you…I don’t know what in the world I could have been thinking that caused me to think that 22 was your IQ level…nope, don’t know what made me think that!…
Oh, cavey—about that multiple screen name thingy…ol’ DOB has a game that he likes to play from time to time on bloggers that like to use multiple names…you see, DOB likes to wait until some genius piles up a whole bunch of names…then the funniest thing happens…ol’ DOB likes to match up IP addresses to names, then reveal, to the entire blog, who that blogger is, and just how many names that particular blogger has used, and what those names were…then that blogger is left sitting in a puddle of his own embarrassment while the rest of the blog stones him to death…so be careful who you accuse…
Oh cavey—-I certainly hope that you aren’t one of those bloggers…tragic, tragic indeed!…
By Jeremiah
April 5, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this
I am soooo Stoked!!!! Go Braves!!!!! What a great way to start the season!!!! Let’s keep it up!
By TennesseePaul
April 5, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this
I like this opening. We went up against a good team and swept them. It’s a good test. I’m pleased with the results. Of course, I’d have been just as happy with the results had we been going up against a weak team like the Cards or Nats. But to start the season off against two of, what I think will be, the better teams in the league is a nice test of the team.
By ATLNative
April 5, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this
Sweeping the Phils is nice.
How frustrating is it to watch these goobers parade in from the pen with a 6 run lead in the 9th and walk 6 batters? Bobby is way too patient with that sort of crap. Just one time I’d like to see him go to the mound and chew one of them out BEFORE giving them the hook. I know he will never do it, but I keep watching and hoping.
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
Cavedude?? Can you absolve me of my other sins also? If so, I will not have to go to confession this week!!
:-)
Metrodude and No Chop: Should be an interesting weekend, although I can see it now: IF the Braves are more successful: “Take that all you misguided Mets fans. We are taking back the crown” IF the Mets are more successful: “Take that you goofy Braves followers. The dynasty is OVER!”
Both couldn’t be farther from the truth. It is like saying that because KJ is hitting 100 now, he is going to be a bust this year. Too early to get too overconfident for both of us (Braves and Mets fans).
It is fun to rub it in early though!!!
Go Bravos!
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
sja - why are you channelling the journalist jimmy?
I did use one name one time but I told you right after I did it.
And it wasn’t disquised, I came right out and said it. So that ought to give you something to go study up on.
Try volume 24, chapter 17, paragraph 15, subpost 5. And you haven’t seen that name again. or have you?
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this
ATLNative: If Bobby did what you suggest, we would have to arrest him and ask him who he was and what did he do with the real Bobby Cox? Bobby, for all his faults as a manager (many have outlined them here in this blog), is always going to be consistently a “players manager.”
It would be like asking one of our politicians to make sense in what they say.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah—My thoughts are that the 2 new acquisitions in the bullpen (along with Wickman) have brought a bit of excitement, and confidence, to the team this season, something that has been sorely missed for quite some time. I find myself once again eager to see certain players take the field…such as Gonzales and Soriano…and McCann is a very special player also…
However, I do believe that defense, and offense, has been compromised to some degree by the mere loss of LaRoche and Giles, along with an aging Chipper…and I also don’t believe that the starting rotation, as is, will be capable of lasting an entire season, nor is it of postseason caliber…thus I have the Braves as finishing second or third place at season’s end…wildcard maybe…
By IP hunter
April 5, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
The fact is, one’s IP address changes everytime one logs in. Damn, you guys are tough. And scary.
Man-love expressed in city pride. Entertaining stuff.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
sja — the briallance comes naturally. I would like to extend the first olive branch and agree with you that joebrave definitely spent some time as an alterboy and a boyscout who curried the “favor” of his scoutmaster.
he now deals with “the love that dare not say it’s name”
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this
SJA: Agreed on all points. The defense has definitely been compromised, although all the defense in the world wouldn’t of helped last year with the bullpen we had.
As for the starters, as a fan (fanatical about my team), I am the eternal optimist. With the negatives out today about Hampton, that is not good. I remain hopeful, as I believe if we are fortunate enough to keep our existing starters healthy, we might be able to evolve into a decent staff by the September stretch.
Some possibles: Cormier or Davies reaches his potential. Smoltz maintains. Hudson becomes the Huddy of 4 years ago. James is a solid #3, developing and progressing. Hampton and/or Redman gives us up to 10-12 victories.
My darkhorse is Matt Harrison becoming 2007’s Chuck James of 2006.
One last thought: If any of the up and coming middle infielders gets really hot, then I would promote them and drop either Aybar/Woodward like a hot potato. (Escobar, Lillibridge, Andrus) I like Prado, but not like some do on this blog. He is not starter material.
By GOLDEN BEAR
April 5, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
Who else is absolutely pumped for a home stand?
Think there will be many empty seats?
Braves are rejuvinated. Gonna win 102 this year!
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this
IP hunter—sounds like you have experience…why not test your theory if you’re so damned cocksure of yourself?…
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
What did our beloved “Gilly” do today in SD?
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
Guess I’ll have to knock off early tomorrow from work, so I can get to the TV by game time (2 hours earlier out here!).
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this
BEAR: I don’t know man, 102 is a lot of wins. I would be happy with 99 or 100!
By Wayne in Utah
April 5, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this
Davey does have the ability to “see” who we are. It’s the big brother factor. Who gives a darn about how it’s done technically?
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this
TheSouthernJackAss is a JackAss of peace, as everyone on the blog knows, so I will enter into a tentative armistice with all bloggers…besides I’m tired, and now getting a bit bored…but remember, in the words of the immortal jimmy smith—TheJackAss is “not to be trifled with”…
By Gil in Mechanicsville(zoo keeper)
April 5, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this
My… Aren’t we a feisty bunch tonight? See what happens when you scare off all of the Mutts fans. You begin to turn against yourselves…. Save some of that animosity for the truly deserving…
Must admit the ninth inning brought back horrible visions of last years. You simply cannot defend against a walk. I was thinking, let them hit the ball to somebody… You don’t have to strike out the side… DUH!!!!! We have room for McBride here in Richmond. There are about a dozen guys who can miss the strike zone already down here that can take his place in Atlanta.
SJA… My Dad use to remind me that these were “early days”. Your assessment may prove accurate but really to soon to know. Will be end of June before we really have a good read on all the teams.
By caveman22
April 5, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this
Go in peace sja
besides I think we scared the crap out of joebrave when he realized we were about try to one up each other at his expense.
peace out
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 5, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Gil (zoo keeper)—my assessment is just a gut feeling…I don’t really have any solid basis for my prediction…but my gut feelings have seldom betrayed me…peace to all bloggers…
By Daybed Wagmoe
April 5, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
i just read the post-game article on atlantabraves.com. i must say i was very impressed with chipper’s comments about jimmy rollins’ claim that the phillies are the team to beat — simply that that’s how he chose to motivate his team, and there’s nothing wrong with it. he could have easily said, “well, so much for that theory” or something along those lines. same goes for francoeur’s comment, too.
By IP hunter
April 5, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
MAC address is constant, permanent? Bust the F’n crap? My, you are a toughie.
By Greg in TN
April 5, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this
Evening ladies and gents…
Three games into the season, and I am quite happy with where we are as a team. The season is still very young and admittedly, this is a marathon rather than a 40-yard dash.
It wasn’t all good news for Braves/Man In Black denizens. Hampton took a step back within the past day or so. The performance by McBride and Paronto didn’t exactly answer the bell in the ninth inning today, but Paronto did pitch effectively on Monday and earned the save and McBride pitched a third of an inning last night for the win. Certainly not ready to give up on either.
Does anyone realize our pitching staff held the reigning NL MVP to 2 for 11, no extra base hits and four K’s?
Definitely something to build on for tomorrow night. I would love for the Ted to be loud and imposing for our visitors from Gotham over the weekend.
Bring on the mets…
By Lew
April 5, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this
Hey Stinky-I know you’re out there lurking. Brother Grinch tells me you’d like to talk- maybe have an artistic discussion. Email me through the website with all that “faerie art” you find so disturbing. I’d love to hear from you, Dude. Haven’t heard a good psycho rant in quite some time.
By Metropoitan Man
April 5, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this
Cant wait to see the games. Two 3-0 teams going at it, yeah I know its early but this is why I blog here, for the baseball. Section 311 2morrow so come say whats up and get a brew on me (cool cats only). Oliver P. shut you out 1 game last year as a MET, 2morrow will be some more of the same. Lets see how many runs you MANUFACTURE when you need to during this series, good luck.
By ssiscribe
April 5, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this
Top of the evening, denizens of the Braves/Man In Black. What a great way to start the season, for sure.
Bring on the Mets. Yeah, it’s gonna be cold at Turner Field this weekend, but it’s gonna be so much fun. Going to spend part of tomorrow making sure I’ve got all the cold-weather gear I can find for Little Scribe and Baby Scribe.
Saturday is gonna be fun, too, with Smoltz and Glavine getting it on. Speaking of Saturday, the honorable Grinch, check your mail, dude. You’re in with the Scribe, bro.
I know the ninth inning today was tough to watch, but it really sounds like the weather really turned nasty and made it hard to pitch. Bottom line, the Braves are off to their best start in 13 years, and with the Mets also 3-0, in this a marathon of a season, there is a chance to make a resounding statement right here and now in the first week of the season.
Should be lots of fun, gang. With that, I’m outta here. The Scribe, as always, abides.
—30—
By The Grinch
April 5, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this
MetroMan; looks like I’m going Saturday. You gonna be there to cheer on your boy Tommy G? I’d be glad to stop by and say howdy; maybe even buy you a consolation brew for every circle change that miraculously finds its way into the outfeild seats. :-)
By journalist jimmy smith
April 5, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this
oh, the circle change - journalist had almost forgotten. can the pitch be thrown with cold ringfinger? and did not johnny cash sing of the circle changeup? and it is toes that are not to be trifled with - though the sja is exhibiting redeeming qualities on this blog which may make sja not to be trifled with, too. journalist bob will be proud when journalist bob returns. and lew, imagine the shame of being banned from a baseball blog … now, how about that big bunny on the first page of ajc.com! big head like barry bonds. soon, peeps will be half price and the mets will have left town in second place. grinch is encouraged to be on good behavior at the game with all the little scribes around. think they will be taking notes and filing a story? gotta start ‘em early.
By choppinmama
April 5, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this
I’ve just caught up on the blog from DOB’s 1st post at 3:16 pm until this evening……..boy, you guys have been having fun today, some sound a little more testy at times than others though! It’s been an amusing read. Thanks.
DOB: great, great info today. Keep on blogging the small team tidbits, breaking news, game analysis and educated speculation. We are inhaling it all.
I am just so proud of our Bravos, it’s a different set of guys that have come through every game. McCann remains the McDaddy.
SJA: “TheSouthernJackAss is a JackAss of peace”. That’s good to know ‘cause we sure wouldn’t want you rilin’ up anybody on this here blog.
By choppinmama
April 5, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this
Braves trivia (thanks to Gary Caruso):
Slugger Joe Adcock holds the painful distinction of being the only man hit twice in the same at-bat with a ball thrown by the same pitcher. In 1956, Giants pitcher Ruben Gomez hit the Braves’ first baseman on the wrist to open the 2nd inning.
On his way to first, Adcock yelled at Gomez, who responded in kind, prompting Adcock to charge the mound. Gomez again threw the ball at Adcock, drilling him in the left thigh, then sprinted for the safety of the dugout.
Both benches cleared, and the ensuing brawl ended only when the organist played the National Anthem.
By Zac
April 6, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f38/zaphrodesiac/mccannd.gif
Something I made up in Graphic Design class in honor of the sweep. Just a simple animation, but pretty cool I think.
By PhillyGirl
April 6, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this
TennesseePaul,
Your 9:14 post was, unfortunately, 100% accurate.
We in Philly are soooooo optimistic this year. We all knew that you guys had gotten better, but the only team we were truly focused on was the Mets.
You guys coming into our house and sweeping us, jolted us into recognition that the Bravos are for real.
This being said, I still like our chances. We will meet you again!!!
By Braves fan 202
April 6, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this
Phillygirl you are dumb. Pilladelphia neeps to worry about football. baseball is just no yalls sport. Been a while since yall were ne good and it will be awhile longer
By Braves fan 202
April 6, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this
Man, i am so nervous about the mets. What do yall think for the three games. We seem favored in all the pitching match ups(considering the bravos own glavine, for the most part)
By KC
April 6, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this
Where’s all the Kelly Johnson hate??? I figured that might quiet down after he hit that 2-run blast and almost decapitated Mr. Eaton.
By choppinmama
April 6, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this
RE: ESPN headline - “6th run fifth thrusts unbeaten Braves past Phillies”
Hey DOB: when was the last time you used “thrust” in one of your columns or blogs? File that verb away for future use.
By WP
April 6, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this
Nice to see a sweep. Guys on Bball 2night are sayin that the mets pitching is not as good as advertised. They say they are gonna get a surprise when they face this hot braves lineup. Sounds good to me. This series will not mean as much as most think, but it will be a nice start o win a couple of games
By WP
April 6, 2007 1:12 AM | Link to this
Nice to see a sweep. Guys on Bball 2night are sayin that the mets pitching is not as good as advertised. They say they are gonna get a surprise when they face this hot braves lineup. Sounds good to me. This series will not mean as much as most think, but it will be a nice start to win a couple of games
By WP
April 6, 2007 1:12 AM | Link to this
Nice to see a sweep. Guys on Bball 2night are sayin that the mets pitching is not as good as advertised. They say they are gonna get a surprise when they face this hot braves lineup. Sounds good to me. This series will not mean as much as most think, but it will be a nice start to win a couple of games
By jed
April 6, 2007 2:37 AM | Link to this
helluva way to open the season—phillies followed by mets—but so far, not bad.
By Wayne in Utah
April 6, 2007 2:46 AM | Link to this
The Night Before Opening Day at the Ted
‘Twas the night before Opening Day, and all through the south,
Not a Braves fan is blogging, not even the Coach.
The Met fans are nestled, all snug in their beds,
Not aware of the train wreck that is lurking ahead.
O’Brien is dreamin’, and MetroMan is scheming.
Hoping their team will be victorious tonight.
The Journalist has visions of toes in his head,
While KC and Lew are off to their beds.
Carolina Lady and Rosalynn add class to this site.
While PhillyGirl and the “Ghost” are accepted in spite.
Now the JackA$$ and The Grinchster are colorful it’s true,
But JoeBrave and some others, are in danger of the “dude”
There are so many others, it is hard not to include,
There is caveman and scribe, and oddjob too.
Sir Stealth he is, and meansonny he is not.
Scalp ‘em and Thrillhouse, and Arkansas Hillbilly are hot!
We have our two Roberts, with Justice the Best,
While the other our beloved Bobby, he must detest.
We can’t forget DonCo, Daybed, Kieran and Gil,
Or Ernesto and scoots; woogidy and rammerjammer too.
Shaun is crunching numbers, N8 will sound off,
Our pastor Matthew, is ready to preach.
Greg and Paul, from Tennessee will expound
And we wish from No Chop, not even a sound.
If I’ve forgotten anyone, forgiveness is due,
We old farts in out in Utah, our memories are few.
Now it is getting late, even for our Mitchie-san,
So I need to exclaim, as I turn out the lights.
Chop Chop to the Mets, Frenchy tomahawk one tonight!!
By Wayne in Utah
April 6, 2007 3:04 AM | Link to this
Braves to the Mets fans:
We are going to “Achy-Break” your hearts this weekend!!!
GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!! GO BRAVES, BEAT THE METS!!!
Holy Schnikies
Somebody pass the Tylenol?
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 3:18 AM | Link to this
I knew Atlanta would feast on Adam Eaton today. Hopefully they keep it up against the Muts tomorrow. One thing is for sure, they’re gonna have to score alot of runs with Redman on the mound. Oliver Perez pitching for New York though, so shouldn’t be tough to get more than a few across.
Andruw, tomorrow is your game! I’m predicting 2 bombs off Perez tomorrow.
By Spike
April 6, 2007 3:27 AM | Link to this
Hey, what’s all this talk about our ‘pen? 30 degrees, 30 mph winds, snowflurries and these guys have to pitch? I’ve pitched a lot, and I’ll tell you that at 30 degrees a ball feels like steel…no grip and heavy. What we saw from Paronto and Mc Bride was a reflection of the conditions and not the players. Yates and Villareal did OK, but our bullpen is fine. All this talk of guys being sent to Richmond after three games(which we won)is useless. These are the guys that got it done in the second half last year. Want to trade them for untested prospects who looked good in spring training? No way…we have 159 games left and it won’t take long to shake things out, but don’t throw these guys under the bus until they’ve had their chance. Oddly enough, the one I worry about is Soriano…just don’t like the attitude, but that’s just me. I’m old school.
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 3:44 AM | Link to this
DOB, keep up the good work my man…
Quick note about the Braves… Lack of a base stealer aside, I really like the lineup they can run out there every day. They have enough veterans (Renteria, Chipper, Andruw, Wilson) to mix in with their young talent (McCann, Francoeur, Thorman, KJ). Plus, I like how they have a good mix of pure hitters (Renteria, McCann, Chipper) and super-streaky hitters (Francoeur, Andruw, Thorman).
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 3:57 AM | Link to this
ONE QUESTION FOR EVERYBODY THOUGH; HOW WOULD YOU CONSTRUCT THE LINEUP IF CHIPPER WAS ON THE DL?
Who takes over the 3 hole? If you ask me, and I’m sure most on this blog would agree, you HAVE to put McCann there don’t you? I mean, the only other option I could possibly see (cuz Cox seems to love KJ) would be 1)Aybar (when he’s healthy); 2)Renteria; 3)Kelly Johnson; 4)Andruw; 5)McCann; 6)Francoeur; 7)Thorman/Wilson; 8)Diaz/Langerhans
BTW, am I the only one who sees that if Kelly Johnson ever reaches his full potential he would be more of a #5 in the order type? He wouldn’t become a great lead-off guy, if anything he’d be almost like a JD Drew. High OBP, with 22-28HR’s and close to 100RBI (again, if he reaches his FULL potential).
By Coach
April 6, 2007 5:49 AM | Link to this
All in all , Redman and his career 4.65 ERA will be on the mound tonight. I’ll be sitting in the middle of my bed , covered with a blanket and stack of tennis balls ready to chuck at the TV. Comfort food in hand (Twinkies , chips , junk food) to stuff myself should he stink it up. O the agony of waiting !
By The Smiles of Giles
April 6, 2007 6:17 AM | Link to this
“He’s hit four balls right on the button,” manager Bobby Cox said of Johnson, his new leadoff hitter. “He’s got one hit, the homer. That’s not bad in three games. A lot of other good hitters have one hit or none, all over [the majors].”
Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Bobby never stops his excuses for this guy. He said the same thing about him two years ago. He hits the ball hard but he just can’t buy a hit. Then he got a few hits and was player of the week and then he faded to the point Langerhans took his spot. You are doomed to never replace the hitting, running, fielding, and clubhouse presence of the Smiles of Giles.
By MEB
April 6, 2007 6:55 AM | Link to this
Hey Wayne out in Utah… that was awesome!
I’m grabbing all the warm clothing I own and hitting the road for Atlanta. If I understand correctly all of the denizens of the blog (except Metro Man) will be wearing a Braves cap. In honor of the day I am breaking out my lucky Braves cap received at Hat Day in 1997. Looking forward to seeing everyone there. Everyone drive safe and we will see y’all at the Ted.
GO BRAVES!!!
By ssiscribe
April 6, 2007 7:10 AM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah: What a great way to wake up on a Good Friday, a day off with my boys, and a trip up the road to the A tonight for the home opener.
JJS, it’s just Grinch and I tomorrow. Little Scribe and Baby Scribe in the house tonight, bundled up to the nines.
3-0 vs. 3-0. Too early for an NL East showdown? Maybe. But there’s nothing like setting the tone early, and so far, though the first 1/54th of the season, the Braves have done just that.
Everybody be safe on the way to the game tonight. Out of curiosity, who on here is going this weekend? Be loud, be proud, stay warm!
The Scribe abides.
—30—
By Metropolitan Man
April 6, 2007 7:34 AM | Link to this
Good stuff Wayne in Utah, thats some serious baseball spirit there. No more days to wait, its here. You guys opening day, and an opportunutiy for me to see the beloved METS. I hope its nots to cold for you guys becasue the game should be hot enough. Anyway we will find out 2night if you guys are fans of this blog, braves, baseball, or all three. I just hope i’m sitting next to knowledgeble people of the game, might be hard to do if he’s wearing a tomahawk logo. Anyway just to let you know my girlfriend (from GA) is s braves fan and she will be there too. So spare her if you get nasty, im the METS fan.
By David O'Brien
April 6, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this
It’s 31 degrees here in Philly as I’m about to get on board this plane. But I hear it ain’t much warmer back in Atlanta, huh? Wow. Can’t believe it’s gonna feel like October at an April game in Atlanta….
Smiles of Giles: Funny, I haven’t heard one thing all spring about that clubhouse presence being missed. Maybe you’ve talked to different people than I have?
By Mookie, Nails, Straw, Doc, Shuffle, Lil Redneck, HoJo, Mex, El Sid, & The Kid
April 6, 2007 7:56 AM | Link to this
wossup wif da pen of dey braves. trey games. trey saves. trey different pitchers wif dose saves. bullpen by committee? as dey great coach bill parells say if you got 2 qbs, you got no qbs.
i tink mcdowell be copying our 86 worle series model. mcdowell was 14-9 wif 22 saves in 128 innings in 1986. orosco was 8-6 wif 21 saves in 1986.
By Smiles of Giles
April 6, 2007 8:22 AM | Link to this
I stand corrected. But it seemed from the outside as a fan that he was good in the dugout, especially with the younger kids. Although there were days I was a little concerned with how carried away he would get in the dugout, especially since Frenchy would feed off of it. That whole overzealous, rah rah rah, punching each other after home run crap. I swear Giles & Frenchy hurt Chipper during one of those things last year. But you are the insider. I’m just a fan who only knows what they show me on the screen and what insiders tell me.
You have hinted at this before on the first day of ST but you have not directly described what you mean by it. You have kind of left it out there for us to read between the lines. I was not totally sure what to read into it.
But if I am reading it right, many on the team are relieved to be ridden of Giles’ annoying presence in the clubhouse. That’s why this blog is great. But I would like some details as to who is glad and why are they glad and are they right or is this just another example of the Braves wanting a clubhouse filled with boring white guys with no personality? Was he a Rockeresque annoyance in the clubhouse? Was getting rid of him about the money, declining productivity, and annoying clubhouse presence or all three combined?
By The Grinch
April 6, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this
Morning all. PhillyGirl, I apologize for your rude reception; all reasonably well behaved fans of opponents are welcome. Wayne, it made me feel all warm and fuzzy to be lumped into a line of a Christmas poem with the “Jackass of peace.” :-) MetroMan, we here in the south don’t stoop to making fun of other people’s women (especially if she’s a southern gal, as you say, and threfore doesn’t have a moustache). However, if you’re wearing Mets gear you’re fair game. But you probably know that. Are you going Saturday, or not?
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
metroman — no self-respecting southerner would make fun of the women folk. We keep it amongst each other and it’s all in good fun. It’s only a blog anyway. I will commend you on landing a GA peach, at least you got one thing right. But the MEaTheads are going down like Spinks vs Tyson. And if your wearing METS gear, Welcome to the JUNGLE!!!!!!!!!!
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 6, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this
Nice statement weekend for both NL East teams. I guess we’ll see if that Mets rotation realy sucks LEW. Allowing only two runs to the World Champs wasn’t convincing enough for you. By your estimation the braves should put a wallup on the Mets pitching staff…….We’ll see.
By Yars
April 6, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this
Smiles of Giles….Marcus is long gone, man. Don’t be surprised if Kelly Johnson puts up better numbers this season than your boy Marcus. Giles productivity declined last season not because he was in the leadoff spot, but because he stopped taking ‘roids. Just ask his brother Brian, who should have been poster child for the stuff. I’m just telling you what has been said for years about the Giles brothers. Marcus was p** off last season because the Braves had him batting in the leadoff spot. Last time I checked, he’s batting leadoff for San Diego. Kelly Johnson has natural talent. His switch to 2B is going well, his teamates love him, Bobby is happy with his progress, & his bat will heat up over the weekend. Marcus presence is not missed.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this
MetroDude-I wondered at first what a nice intelligent, obviously well bred woman was doing with a Mets fan, but then I realized I’ve been married for 32 years and I’ve often wondered how I could get that lucky, myself. But then again, I AM a Braves fan, so I guess it really makes sense. I guess you’re just lucky, too. Good series this weekend. Too bad for you the Mets will lose. Oliver Perez. Can’t wait for our offensive explosion.
By Rodger
April 6, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this
Love the caption with KJ picture hitting homer “Kelly Johnson swinging a hot bat”. Hot bat? He’s 1 for freakin 14!
By Lew
April 6, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this
Poor Little Chop Zone-The Mets pitch well against a WS winner that can’t hit their way out of a paper bag and you’ree ready to give the CY to your whole staff. I repeat, if Pujols had gotten off to last year’s start and if the Cardinals actually had pitching, you’d be crying in your Kool Aid. What that series tells me is that St.Louis is in trouble this year-not that the Mets’ staff is talented. Go listen to some Hank Williams, Sr. He goes well with beer, salty from Mets’ tears.
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 6, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this
I wonder if Lew has a set of excuses prepared for when the Braves don’t produce the expected results.
By ssiscribe
April 6, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this
Greg in TN: Hey man, I’m assuming that’s you quoted in Hummer’s story today. Good stuff, man. Be safe in your travels to our fair city today.
And, I think you’re right about the 84 brawl in your post yesterday, in that it was Kurt Bevacqua and not Champ Summers that Horner squared off with during the brawl. And I forgot just how inept the Pads’ pitchers were in trying to plunk ol’ Pascual in that game. I also remember Murphy made a diving catch in center to end it, and said something along the lines of he just wanted to get out of there after the game.
Wild times, indeed. It also, if memory serves, was Hall of Fame induction day and they told the commissioner (Kuhn) that there was a riot on the field and in the stands.
I have a vague memory out there along the lines of ill fan behavior. It’s vague, so any details or memories would be appreciated: In 1980, Chris Chambliss and (surprise!) Bobby Cox were ejected from the first inning of the second game of a doubleheader against the Pirates.
It was seat cushion night and all these seat cushions come flying on the field. It looked like a blizzard. I remember Marshall Mann announcing that the Braves would have to forfeit and the stadium would be closed if the seat cushions didn’t stop flying.
Anyway, thought about that game last night as I was thinking about the big brawl with San Diego. Ah, fun memories of the 1980s.
Here’s one more from that decade of mostly bad baseball: In May of 1987, the defending World Series champions (anybody out there know who I’m talking about? The Mets, of course) came to town and got swept. It was Mother’s Day weekend, because I watched on the big screen at old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium as they showed highlights of Isiah Thomas (another endearing thought to New Yorkers, he he he) beat the Hawks with his driving shot on the baseline in the playoffs in Detroit.
Here’s hoping 20 years later, it’s another sweep of the Mets this weekend. Bundle up, denizens! The Scribe abides.
—30—
By KC
April 6, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this
Rodger: Yes, a caption like “hot bat” might be a little silly at the moment. However, he hit 4 balls on right on the nose yesterday. His swing looked very good.
By Gil in Mechanicsville(zoo keeper)
April 6, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this
journalist jimmy smith With your being from Uganda and all, you might not be aware that half price “peeps” might not be a bargain. You see, grocery store peeps are usually roosters. Now that is okay if you plan to raise fryers but does not do much if you have designs towards increasing your egg production. You will also be happy to note the long explanation of toe tap incorporated by Langerhans this year into his swing by Joe Simpson. Looks like the whole Braves team will be tap dancing this year. Maybe they need to put a pediatrist on the training staff to assure good toe health.
Wayne in UT. Yes… It is boring when everything is done and ninety percent of the population is asleep and you feel like you are just getting started. One advantage you have is you live in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Now baseball… Not really serious about sending McBride and Paronto down. Just the frustration of the moment. Cold weather…. It is why I refuse to play golf when it’s below 50 degrees…and that temperature level has increased as I have gotten older.
For all the Thorman haters out there, Ryan Howard did not have as good a series our platoon. Do you think the Phillis would make an even swap?
Thought Francoure’s best at bat of the series was the one after McCann was intentionally walked. Showed some maturity in that one.
By PhillyGirl
April 6, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this
Braves fan 202,
Judging from how well you spell, you probably shouldn’t be calling anyone else dumb.
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
NO NUT SACK Were you raised this way or are you the victim of “the love that dare not speak it’s name”. Alterboy maybe, possibly a boysouct / scoutmaster camping trip gone wrong. Something in your past must be tearing you apart inside for you to continue this self-destructive behavior of rooting for your SCHMUCKS on a Braves Blog. Do they not let you sit at the big table on the MEATHEAADS blog. Or is this just acting out for attention. (NO wait, that’s what I’m doing) Well anyway in about 96 hours your little world will become smaller as you will have lost your “swagger” that is based on the thinnest ice of all, MUTTS STARTING PITCHING!!
P.S. — If you don’t get help at Charter-Peachford, get help somewhere.
By Gil in Mechanicsville(zoo keeper)
April 6, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this
OHHH… Score a point for PhillyGirl
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 6, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
I never said the Mets staff are Cy Young types(Except maybe Pedro). All I’m saying is that they won’t suck and they’re about to prove that this weekend. Lets evaluate them After the three game series. We’ll see what a “Stand Up” kinda guy you are afterwards.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this
Poor, Poor Little Chop Zone-What will your excuses be when the Mets fall back to earth and Oliver becomes Christmas Tree Boy from getting lit up by the Braves? Are you gonna tell us then that you’re waiting until Johan Santana becomes a free agent, or that you’ll fix your problems sometime in late July? You’ve played three games against a team with no pitching, whose batters are in a deep freeze and you think you’ve got the greatest p[itching staff since-well since one of the Braves’ staffs. Guess again. This is come back to earth weekend. Oliver Perez? Yeah, right.
By Smiles of Giles
April 6, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
Yars, you are right. Giles is gone. Based upon his declining performance, they probably made a good decision. I think KJ will be okay - not sure how good or not. And I absolutely agree with you that Giles was a roid man. Undeniable unless you are retarded. Big power for little runts that disappears when testing occurs. Duh? I also did not understand his crybaby nonsense about the leadoff position. I don’t understand why he had to change his approach batting leadoff or how it affected him at all. Furcal never gave a flip about changing his style to become a “true” leadoff man - neither does Reyes or Soriano. Giles should have done the same thing - poor excuse provided by Giles for a bad season. They were not asking him to be a prototype leadoff guy - they thought with the player he was he could be more than serviceable as a leadoff guy. The Pods apparently agree. What was my point? Despite all that, I loved Giles. Wish he was still here. Don’t think KJ will be as good as Giles. Could be wrong. Am surprised to hear DOB’s implication that Giles was a bad clubhouse guy. But Yars, you are right. Giles is long gone. It is now time to turn the page and move on. The Braves are rolling right now.
BTW, MetroMan, the best way to have us leave your woman alone is to have her show her you know whats that she only shares with we know whom and to shake what her momma gave her. Daisy Dukes and a tank would be nice, especially considering that the weather will be a tad bit nipply tonight. Get up and dance with her during Thank God I’m A Country Boy and you will leave you alone as well.
Let’s go kill the freaking Mets.
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
*ssiscribe * Here are a few promotion nights that went haywire: frisbee night - people were sailing them from one side to the other from the upper deck
the amazing walenda — well you remember his not so amazing fall
bat night — OK check this out, you come to the game and well give you a WEAPON. Even worse it was a chaepa$$ bar with MIKE LUM’S name on it. Lost of damage that night.
Little League Day — who ever came up with this one should have been drawn and quartered. OK coaches you bring you ENTIRE baseball team in uniform and we are going to sit all of you in the cheap seats. That’s 20 kids for every 2 adults. In one huge section of stands. 5000 kids and 250 adults to supervise. I forget how many kids were “accidently” left behind but if was over 30.
and hey I was there when TED TURNER was the head coach!! yeehaw boys , who we got in the bullpen. I love andy messersmith.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 6, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
Metropolitan Man—Not to worry…If I happen to run into your girlfriend…I will share a handful of oats and a couple sugar cubes with her, and if she is well-behaved, I’ll use my currycomb on her…
By Lew
April 6, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this
No, Little Chop Zone, Pedro WAS a Cy Young type. Now he’s an injured pitcher with calf, toe and shoulder problems which occured after he had become basically mediocre to begin with. You keep acting like sometime this season you will get a CY contender back into your rotation. Ha. Ha Ha Ha. Yeah, right. He hasn’t been that good since he came to the Mets. Why do you think the Red Sox let him go. If you are counting on his and Sanchez’s return you are in some very deep do do, Little Chop Zone.
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this
hehehehehehehehehe
he is the jackass of getting “piece”*
By The Grinch
April 6, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
Lew, best chill on the smack talk involving starting pitching at least ‘till tommorrow; Redman’s on the mound tonight. I still think we’ll win, though. Time to get some work done.
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 6, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
We’ll win without those mentioned players and we’ll win more when/if they return. I’m a realist LEW. I’m an optimist and as a fan I beleive they will return and contribute. But We will win without them……you’ll see Lewie.
By journalist jimmy smith
April 6, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
phillygirl, do not be disturbed. this journalist was once called a “looser” on this very blog! oh, the poem was most well received this morning. fine work in utah overnight. and as to the peeps, journalist thinks peeps are not boy and girl chicks. chicks are always chicks. right? and who is going to check a peep anyway? if peeps hit 50 cents a box there will be a rush on all the stores. a certain beat writer will buy many boxes pack them away for road trip enjoyment. now, the suggestion of the braves employing a good toe specialist is a worthy one - and journalist agrees with gil but thinks it should be a podiatrist instead of a pediatrist. of course, the pediatrist could do little piggy with chipper. now, baseball … journalist jimmy smith hopes grinch and scribe and all others going have a great time at the game. and can anyone imagine how cold a cold ringfinger will be in cold temperatures? and will the circle change frost over? and where is bobby dews? frost on the pumpkin? now, more baseball … if kj ever gets on base maybe we will see renteria hitting behind the runner and the braves will play a little of the small ball this team seems never to play. and if bobby cox lost feeling in bobby cox’s fingers last night might bobby cox have accidentally stuck a finger in bobby cox’s eye instead of … oh, the humanity! where is dob?
By ZB Pike
April 6, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this
So, are we going to look at the box scores each week and compare our 2b and 1b production stacks up against giles and la roche?
By Lew
April 6, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
Grinch-I’d still rather go with Redman than the Big “O”. At least Redman put up respectable numbers with a terrible team. Perez was just as terrible as his team was. Poor Little Chop Zone-You’re no realist. If you were you would be with your other Mets fans, on a Mets’ blog, instead of trying to convince us as well as yourself that all was right with the world. Oh, The Insecurity. Esteemed Journalist-Please email the Artist.
By Metropolitan Man
April 6, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Well some of you are aight, some are still 1st class jerks. For those of you going to the game talking baseball, hope to see you there. For the rest of the ashclowns, hope you say the right thing if we come face to face becasue I dont know how you really get down, but Im not the type to hide behind a screen. Just as I am welcoming braves fans to come sit and drink a brew, the same goes for out of line cats and you know who you are. So screw the personal nasty crap, get on board with baseball and enjoy.
Grich, I responded to you last night, yes I’m going to Sat game, tonights game and Sunday’s game. Tonight section 311, Sat, section 228. Hope to see you guys there and hell nah I’m not dancing to “Thank GOD im a county boy”. And those J. Foxworthy jokes have got to stop. Just remember to drink, be merry and root your team to victory!! lETS GO FALCONS…….AND TAKE THE BRAVES WITH YOU!!!!!
By Gil in Mechanicsville(zoo keeper)
April 6, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this
Yes jimmy… maybe dance instructor too.. duh!!!! Okay, time to get the chores done, I think Dave O is flying the frienly skies today or suffering from jet lag. Man I hate airports!!!!
Catch ya’ll on the flipside…
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 6, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this
Pedro Martinez—The only thing I will remember him for is the day he grabbed hold of Don “Popeye” Zimmer’s head, and then dribbled him all over the ground like an over-inflated beachball…good thing about a dozen players held ol’ Popeye back or else he would have opened up a can of whoop-a* quicker than some bloggers could spell spinach, and Pedro would have had a new “daddy”!…
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 6, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
I love the way LEWIE has elected himself the “Regulator of the Blog. poor little man. He spends his time attacking those who have the courage to disagree with him or offer an alternate opinion. as the Beatles would say…..”He’s a real no where man, sitting in his now where land, making all his no where plans for nobody”……..
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 6, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
Metropolitan Man—Sure hope you’re not referring to TheJackAss of peace…cause I can put on my war face real fast…so if you want to climb on, bring a stepladder…and your girlfriend’s safe, if she shows up with you, what decent man would want a girl with no taste, or class?…you’s knows?…
By Metropolitan Man
April 6, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
What the heck is Charter Peachford?????????
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this
me thinks metro dude protest too much…
By KC
April 6, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
NO CHOP ZONE: I agree with you… the Mets rotation doesn’t suck. I think you’re at least solid 1-3 in the rotation. After Maine, though… it could get dicey.
It remains to be seen what will happen with O.Perez. I am not among those who were impressed by his post-season performance last year (though it was better than his 6.50 ERA regular season). However, I will admit that he’s made me a little nervous after the great spring he had. I think it’s still a lot for Mets fans to hope for, but if he could recapture the magic he found a couple years ago… it changes everything for the Mets. I don’t think the odds of that happening are great, but again… after the spring he had, I’ll feel much better if he struggles tonight.
In fairness, the same could be said of Redman. Very similar circumstances. Both Redman and Perez had excellent seasons 3 years ago, but have struggled greatly since. Both however, had good springs.
I know you guys talk Pelfrey up every chance you get, but the bottom line is… he has a lot of potential, but no one knows what he’s going to do every 5th day at the major league level yet. We’re in the exact same boat with Cormier and Davies (who was hurt most of last year).
The advantage the Braves have in the rotation is that Hudson appears to be back at it… so that gives us 2 legitimate aces once again. I’m really starting to think that John Maine and Chuck James cancel each other out. Anyway, I like our rotation better 1-3 than the Mets, but I think your solid at the top. It’s really just a question for both of us is what do we get from our 4 and 5 guys?
On the “waiting for the cavalry” front… you guys are waiting on the return of Pedro, and we’re waiting for Hampton. It will probably take Hampton longer to round back into form than it will take Pedro, but Hampton will have longer. Hampton is expected back in the Braves rotation 3 months before Pedro’s return to the Mets (in early August).
Again, Braves fans have to be realistic and know that it’ll take him a little while to round back into form. However, I don’t know that it will take him very long to be a better than either Mike Redman or Oliver Perez.
But while we’re talking about realism… let me remind Mets fans that Pedro will have been out for a while too, and it will take him (in all likelihood) at least several starts to get back in a groove. It may be the beginning of September before Pedro’s a real force. By that time however, it’s likely that Hampton will be back at a high level since it will have been a full 2 years since his surgery, and he will have had 4 months of pitching back under his belt. So while Pedro will give you a boost late in the year, it’s not likely that he’ll give the an edge (not over the Braves anyway).
Anyhoo, long story short… the edge (in the rotation) is Atlanta’s right now only because of Hudson. We’ll have to see how our 4, 5 guys match up, beginning tonight.
By KC
April 6, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
Metro Man/No Chop Zone: Either of you going to the game tonight?
If so, I’ll stop by with a box of kleenex for you. =)
By Lee
April 6, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Braves are winning , 3 wins 0 in the loss column, so it is hard to complain about who is hitting and who is not so early in the season. If the record was reversed, I dare say opinions were be different from the majority of people. A few more games should tell the story on a couple of these guys and their hitting. I do not foresee a player maintaining their position as a full time player for a lengthy period of time with a sub-pare 200 hitting average.
Changing the subject off the Braves for a moment, I was channel surfing last night and saw Cal Ripken JR on QVC network. Don’t usually watch a shopping channel unless NASCAR hope that is not an ugly word on this blog or BASEBALL memorabilia is involved. What a class act individual and I did not realize his stats were that impressive. Some of today’s athletics could learn a thing or two from this guy. This is definitely not the IRON MAN era for some of these players. In fairness though, Ripken did state he was a fast healer and said it came from human genetics. I realize some players are lucky and some or not with injuries.
GO BRAVES!!!!!!
By rammerjammer
April 6, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
If I remember correctly, Perez shut us down last season.
We also have Davies (our #7 starter) going in game three. Hmm…
Would feel MUCH better with Huddy and Chucky bookending this weekend…oh, well.
I am HOPEFUL we win two of three, and apprehensive of getting swept. The Mets are good and have the quiet confidence of a winner. We know the feeling, yes?
GO BRAVES.
By rammerjammer
April 6, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this
KC,
Very well put. I agree that the difference is the back of the rotation. This weekend, they get only one of our front line guys, but we get their top two.
I, for one, would be very happy winning two of three.
By ernesto
April 6, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
Metroman - let’s see you live in Georgia. you spend your time blogging with the Braves’ faithful. You’re just a big Braves fan in denial aren’t you? It’s okay to admit it, you don’t have to live on the darkside.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 6, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
New Jokers don’t know what Kleenex are, nor do they use them…that’s what the backs of their hands are for!…
By braveheart
April 6, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Phillygirl, beware of the Grinch. The Grinch sweet talks all the women. You have to realize the Grinch is a pimp, treating you just good enough to keep you earning for him. He is a good man though with a heart of gold always on the lookout for girl with a “heart” of gold. Just be warned.
By Lee
April 6, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this
Thank God AJC got that caption of KJ and the hot bat deal off the website.
By David O'Brien
April 6, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
Damn, it’s as cold here (or almost) as it was in Philly.
OK, it’s not nearly as cold, or windy. But it’s cold here. Way below normal.
Smiles, I didn’t say anything other than, I haven’t heart anyone say they miss his clubhouse presence. I’m merely trying to correct a popular misconception, the one that goes like this _ LaRoche was a “clubhouse cancer” (for his bonehead play and perceived lack of effort in the view of some here, and Giles was a great clubhouse guy.
All I’m saying is that how things appear on TV to fans isn’t necessarily the way they are in the clubhouse. Sometimes, quite the opposite. And the one guy who left who is missed in the clubhouse by most guys I’ve talked to is LaRoche. He was very popular with all his teammates. That’s all I’m saying.
If you miss a player’s smile and bust-a-gut style, that’s fine. I understand the sentiment. But you shouldn’t assume that translates to the clubhouse and say the Braves will miss someone’s presence, unless you’ve actually talked to someone who knows. Totally different world in the clubhouse and on the team plane and on the bus to the hotels, etc.
By mnm
April 6, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this
im looking at the braves losing 2 out of 3 just because we have are 2 worst starters going, i believe redman its going to get his a* kicked tonight the mets will destroy him, i do believe the braves will have a chance own saturday but u can forget about sunday kyle davies is aweful, but i hope that i am wrong and that the braves can win the series.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
Poor Little Chop Zone-Me attacking? You have a serious transference issue there, Little Man. I really don’t care if you stick around or not. It will just make it more pleasant when the Mets flame out due to that AAA staff. Get rid of you? Why would I want to do that? Hell, I just got an email from Stinky. At least he’s intelligent and occaisionally perceptive. With you, I’m still waiting.
By Shaun
April 6, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this
Lee,
I don’t know if “a few more games” may not tell the story. I say we shouldn’t judge for at least another three weeks or so.
By Shaun
April 6, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this
mnm,
For what it’s worth, espn.com post these simulations a company does for each game. The company does something like 1000 simulations of the same game. They have the Braves winning tonight’s game in over 50 percent of the simulations. Obviously, it’s impossible to predict the future, but it’s quite possible the Braves win two out of three or even sweep. After all, this is baseball. Look at the World Series champ from last year. Inferior teams often beat superior teams.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this
One thing many here are forgetting, which may just play a part this weekend. Does anyone remember getting swept by the Mets late last year? You know the series that put the final nail in our coffin? I doubt the Braves have forgotten. They may not talk about it publically, but I guarantee a little payback will be sweet revenge. Might just add another MPH to someone’s fastball, or prompt a bit of extra effort. You never can tell.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
One more thing Little Chop Zone-Yes, if the Braves, by some wild chance out of Queens, lose any this weekend, I WILL find a way to positively spin it. I remind you, I’m a Braves’ fan on a Braves’ blog. Expecting otherewise is nothing but wishful thinking on your part.
By Lee
April 6, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
Shaun - You are properly right. I have been trying to bite and hold my tongue on KJ and wait and see. You usually show a good knowledge and stats for this game. It is frustrating to always see him hit the ball hard and never have anything to show for it, but in due time he is going to have to produce more than this. Good thing I am not a manager - don’t have the patience
By KC
April 6, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
rammerjammer:
Yes, I too will be very happy winning 2 out of 3.
Actually, I feel Tim Hudson is the biggest difference right now. I’m not sure exactly what to expect out of either rotation at the 4/5 slots…
I think the Braves will be just fine there. But the Mets may as well. Hope not =) We’ll just have to wait and see.
It will be much easier to say how these two rotations compare in a few weeks when we’ve seen each rotation several times through.
The Braves do, I believe, have an edge in the rotation. Whether that’s a slight edge or a significant one… I dunno. Ask me in a month or two.
Even if it’s just a slight edge, when you combine that with the edge the Braves have in the bullpen… the’re no question the Braves have the better pitching staff.
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
see how nice it is when we all play together and throw a beat down on these two A*******clowns.
Speaking of a*******e$, where is joebrave???
Word to the wise, we think joebrave drops the soap on purpose…..
By NRBQ
April 6, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this
Late to this blog, and no time to read it all. But can someone (DOB?) tell me if Bobby explained why he pinch-hit for James with an 8-1 lead in the sixth?
Thanks.
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
“If I remember correctly, Perez shut us down last season.”
Actually Rammerjammer, the last time Perez pitched in Atlanta (which was just September 26th of last year, here was his line:
5.1 IP; 7hits; 6 earned runs; 3BB’s; and 3HR’s allowed in a losing effort… If you call that shutting down, then I hope he shuts the Braves down again tonight!
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this
Seriously Lew, aren’t these Muts fan’s something else? They come onto a Braves blog apparantly because there is an actual audience that will be forced to see their lame writing (poor fans, their team is nothing more than the red-headed stepchild in New York)… I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, GO AWAY! We don’t want you here, you’re all tools and nobody cares what you have to say. You’re a Mets fan, congratulations. Now go celebrate that with OTHER METS FANS, like we do here with FELLOW BRAVES FANS… Doosh Bags…
By David O'Brien
April 6, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this
NRBQ, because James had already thrown 92 pitches (right at his limit for first start) and, as you pointed out, they had an 8-1 lead.
Did you want him to throw 110 or so pitches in his first start? Not many young guys are pushed like that, or old guys for that matter. Not in their first start of the season, and certainly not with such a lead.
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
Brave New World
“Right-hander John Smoltz turns 40 next month. Center fielder Andruw Jones almost certainly is playing his last season in Atlanta. Third baseman Chipper Jones will be fortunate if he stays healthy enough to appear in 120 games. While all three veterans remain Braves fixtures, the transition to the next generation is accelerating. Saturday’s matchup between Smoltz and Mets left-hander Tom Glavine (MLB on Fox, 3:55 p.m. ET) will be a dramatic reminder of the Braves’ past. The 2007 season offers comfort for the Braves’ present and promise for their future. Catcher Brian McCann, 23, suddenly is the team’s best player. Right fielder Jeff Francoeur, 23, possesses star potential. Second baseman Kelly Johnson, 25, and rookie first baseman Scott Thorman, 25, are playing regularly, and a bevy of middle-infield prospects, led by Class AAA shortstop Yunel Escobar, 24, awaits. A new age is dawning, all right. Francoeur and McCann are on the cover of the Braves’ media guide. McCann, the recent recipient of a six-year, $26.8 million contract, had six RBIs in the Braves’ three-game, season-opening sweep of the Phillies. Thorman hit a go-ahead, 11th-inning homer Wednesday and a two-run double Thursday, Johnson a two-run homer Thursday. Many of the Braves’ youngsters were among the 18 rookies — the “Baby Braves” — who contributed to the team’s division title in 2005. The moment they arrived, they began transforming the Braves’ notoriously buttoned-down clubhouse into a more raucous, impassioned environment. “I’ll never forget that first year — they ‘younged up’ the ballclub,” Chipper Jones says. “It went from being a business-as-usual type club to a cut-up-and-have-fun club. Those kinds of personalities are infectious. People enjoy it, especially when you’ve been here for so long. It’s cool to be able to do something different.” The old Braves occasionally were criticized for being too corporate, too devoid of emotion. Those perceptions weren’t entirely accurate; manager Bobby Cox, mindful of the team’s 14 straight division titles, notes dryly, “the other way worked pretty well.” The new group, though, brings a certain grit. “We play with high intensity,” Francoeur says. “We love to play the game.” Exhibit A is McCann, who suffered a sprained left ankle last season that might have sidelined other players for several months. McCann spent only 16 days on the disabled list, made his first All-Star team and won the National League Silver Slugger Award at catcher by batting .333 with 24 homers and 93 RBIs. Exhibit B is Johnson, who missed all of last season after undergoing elbow-ligament transplant surgery. Johnson worked diligently in the off-season with first base coach Glen Hubbard to make the transition from the outfield to second base, and Cox says he turned the double play as well as any second baseman in Florida during spring training. Exhibit C is Thorman, who brings a more aggressive personality than Adam LaRoche, the first baseman the Braves traded to the Pirates for reliever Mike Gonzalez and minor-league shortstop Brent Lillibridge. “I don’t leave anything on the field,” Thorman says. “Run balls out, play the game hard, that’s the only way I know.” LaRoche was immensely popular with his teammates, but frustrated some with his inattentiveness. Thorman, a feverish competitor, actually had to work on toning it down in the minors, where he threw bats and helmets like a Jr. Paul O’Neill. “He runs harder to first than anybody I’ve ever seen — every time,” Francoeur says. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a dropped third strike or if he hits a chopper to the pitcher. He’s running all out until he touches first base.” Scouts question whether Thorman can develop into the same type of defender and left-handed slugger as LaRoche, who had a monster second half last season after he resumed taking medication for Attention Deficit Disorder. The Braves don’t. New third base coach Brian Snitker, who managed 16 seasons in the Braves’ farm system, told general manager John Schuerholz that Thorman would have as big an impact as Francoeur and McCann did in ‘05. Francoeur predicts that Thorman will hit 20 to 25 home runs “easy.” McCann says emphatically, “I think he will be more than fine.” The Braves are protecting Thorman by playing Craig Wilson against certain left-handers. They can promote Martin Prado to play second if Johnson falters. Strange as it might sound, the flaw in their latest blueprint is starting pitching, their historic strength. Beyond right-hander Kyle Davies, who will start in place of injured right-hander Lance Cormier on Sunday, the Braves lack major-league ready starters at Class AAA. They’ve kicked around trading young position prospects for a young starter, but they’ve also got other areas to address. They’ve been looking for a left-handed slugger to upgrade the left-field platoon of Matt Diaz and Ryan Langerhans. It’s highly unlikely they will re-sign Andruw Jones as a free agent, which will force them to replace a Hall of Fame center fielder. In the meantime, Francoeur continues to lack plate discipline — “I don’t know why anyone would ever throw him a strike,” one scout says. Chipper Jones hasn’t played in more than 110 games since ‘04. Smoltz, who eventually will depart or retire, will be impossible to replace. Still, a core is emerging — McCann, Francoeur, maybe Johnson and Thorman, too. They eventually could be joined by Escobar, who had a big spring, and Jarrod Saltalamacchia, a switch-hitting catcher who could move to first base or left field. Two years ago, they were the Baby Braves. No more.”
Ken Rosenthal is a senior baseball writer for FOXSports.com.
By Shaun
April 6, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
Lee,
Thanks.
Yeah, just look at Rafael Furcal last season. He hit .198 AVG/.306 OBP/.219 SLG in March and April. But he was fine the rest of the way.
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this
DOB, I agree with that point about Chucky, but why not let Villareal bat in the 7th inning when they were still up 8-2? Villareal was pitching for the first time this season, he could have easily gone 3 innings and then BC could have handed the ball to Yates in the 9th… Instead we end up using McBride, Paronto, AND Soriano (plus Wickman had to warm up) in a game where we desperately needed to keep our main bullpen guys off the mound… (and this isn’t hindsight either, I questioned why he just didn’t let Villareal bat and pitch the 8th when it happened).
By rammerjammer
April 6, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
Don C., thanks for the clarification. It was on Sept. 6 that he shutout the Braves on five hits. Here’s hoping we get the Sept. 26 Perez tonight.
By DAP
April 6, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, just wondering what you think about possibly pitching huddy on short rest on sunday. he would have four days rest, but with the off-day monday, it looks like we can skip the 5th man twice, and get everybody regular rest except for huddy on sunday.
im sure this wont happen, since they brought up davies for the pupose of pitching on sunday, but i feel like we have a better chance to win with hudson on the mound. wouldnt that be a better idea then sending a struggling davies out to face the mets lineup?
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this
“Don C., thanks for the clarification. It was on Sept. 6 that he shutout the Braves on five hits. Here’s hoping we get the Sept. 26 Perez tonight.”
One big thing you’re leaving out there rammerjammer, the Sept. 26 start was IN ATLANTA! I called it last night and I’m saying it again - Andruw will go yard X 2 tonight off the greatest left-handed pitcher in Mets history, Oliver Perez…
By meansonny
April 6, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this
I felt pretty good with Redman this spring until that dreadfull AA game. Now, I don’t know what to expect. I’d be happy so long as he keeps it close, and we’re able to get Perez out of the game asap. I like our chances against everyone in the Mets pen not named Wagner
By dougp
April 6, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this
Does anyone out there think caveman is remotely funny? I am a braves fan, but I gotta say, ya can’t go around talkin smack to the Mets fans until we actually do something against them this year. All the slams are good natured I understand, but I think we should all just take a page from our favorite athletes and just drop the bat and run around the bases. We, as Braves fans, don’t flip the bat stare the ball down and then hop skip and jump all the way to first base. The Braves players all have respect for the games and their opponents both before and after a game, and I would think us Braves fans would too.
Just a thought. I do hope the Braves sweep the Mets and make a little statement this weekend. But I would also take metroman up on his offer to have a beer with him and talk baseball.
By NRBQ
April 6, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Dave.
BTW, it wasn’t an indictment - just asking.
By Smiles of Giles
April 6, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for clarifying. I never would have perceived Laroche to be a cancer - he seems to be too much of a laidback, kind of wallflower who does not ruffle feathers too much (again, t.v. perception). I never thought Giles to be a cancer either but I can imagine that the same thing that makes him a great player can also wear out players and a team when stuck with him on the field, in the clubhouse, dugout, hotel, plane for eight months. Maybe more nerve rattling for teammates than a cancer with his endless energy, mouth, and motion. Just speculating. BTW, I resemble, err resent, the implication about me liking his smile, although I guess I set myself up for that like a fat pitch from Oliver Perez to Frenchy, Andruw, and Chipper.
By Rodger
April 6, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this
DAP
Too early in the season to start trotting guys out on short rest. Besides, I wouldn’t classify Davies as “struggling”. Wish to heck I could get to the Ted this weekend. Should be a good series, and a good test-of the teams and the fans!
By Rodger
April 6, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
dougp
Amen!
By TennesseePaul
April 6, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
Payne: it’s quite possible the Braves win two out of three or even sweep. After all, this is baseball. Look at the World Series champ from last year. Inferior teams often beat superior teams.
For shame! For Shame Payne! I read that post several times to make sure, but there it was… there was Payne equating the Braves of 2007 to an inferior team. For shame!
We will win tonight. We will win because we are the superior team. And superior teams win the majority of the time. We will win this series. We will win this division. We will win the NL. And we will win the World Series. We are the Braves.
GO BRAVES!!
By Adam Laroche
April 6, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
Adam LaRoche is 1 for 12 with 7 strikeouts, leading the major leagues in K’s. Ironically, the Pirates are undefeated after sweeping Houston.
By Lee
April 6, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
Although I always pulled for the Braves (that being since the team come to Atlanta in 1966) and always will pull for the Braves, Met fans I do understand you pulling for you team. However, only the Yankees and Rex Sox beat you out for my personal least favorite teams. Go Braves win this series and many more. Now if there were only a miracle and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays win the AL East…… Yeah right…. If anyone believes that will happen I have some ocean front property in Aaa-rrii-zon-a for sale. A little George Strait for ya.
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 6, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
I guess Dooshbag is a permitted word on the blog DOB? (See DonC post at 2:01)
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
meansonny don’t fear Wagner, just bring his Kiebler Elf butt out to the mound and tell him to bring the heat, or whatever he has left of it. Might as well start smackin’ him around while we are at it. Is he tall enough to ride this ride yet??
dougp if in someway I have lessened your enjoyment then take it from me and I mean this from the heart………..
BITE ME DUDE!!
You want to say something go ahead, I can take it, but you want to take a vote because your afraid that in someway the “enemy” bloggers need to be treated with the proper respect, GET A LIFE DUDE. I’m not making seriously pointed statements and half the time I’m poking fun at myself so go back to Starbucks, get a double shot expresso, a grow a sack man. If the enemy wants to live in peace than don’t post on the Braves Blog.
What a pantywaist!! Unbelievable!!
By Metropolitan Man
April 6, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
I dont think eveyone feels the same way DonCoburleone but feel free to vent like you cant get along with anyone with different likeness. Anyway see you guys 2nite, let the brew take over and let the game entertain!!!!!!
By DAP
April 6, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
roger
what WOULD you describe davies as? i think his last spring outing showed that he still has some kinks to work out. maybe hes fine now, i dont know, but we do have a better chance to win with hudson on the mound.
besides, its never to early to win games. games in the beginning of the season count just as much as at the end.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
DonC-Mets fans on this blog (especially Chop Zone) is roughly the equivalent of dog droppings on the street. Sometimes you just walk around them, sometimes complain about the smell. All in all, though, they are basically harmless-just offensive. As far as not letting Villarreal go more than two, in all reality, the bullpen will not get much of a break tonightor Sunday and BC is just managing the players playing time. We may need them, just as the Mets WILL need bullpen help for their pathetic starters this weekend. The main difference is we have a bullpen. The Mets version either left, got injured, or got caught juicing.
By John Adcox
April 6, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Who all is heading to the game tonight? I’ll be meeting at pal at the Phil Neikro statue at 6:40 or so… drop by and say hello if you can!
John
By John Adcox
April 6, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Who all is heading to the game tonight? I’ll be meeting at pal at the Phil Neikro statue at 6:40 or so… drop by and say hello if you can!
John
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
YOU TELL’EM LEW !!!!!!!!!!!!!
By DonCoburleone
April 6, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
“The Mets version either left, got injured, or got caught juicing.”
That whole team has been juicing ever since Delgado got into town…
By rammerjammer
April 6, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Adam,
Interesting observation about LaRoche’s Ks and all.
I think the Braves and Pirates are two of the more energized teams in baseball because each believes they made trades to greatly strengthen themselves.
That new-found confidence is leading to more inspired play…even if the players you traded for don’t always have a hand in the matter.
By Rodger
April 6, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
DAP, Hudson walaked 4 & hit a guy in his start, and he’s proclaimed “saved”, so I’m not sure how to describe Davies.
Unrelated note, even with no rain, Masters gets weather delayed for FROST ON THE GREENS?
By journalist jimmy smith
April 6, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
a young brett butler was not popular in the braves’ clubhouse. when brett butler was traded (oh, the humanity! what a bad trade!) a braves player told jimmy smith they had several outfielders as good as butler - he was a pre-madonna - and look at what the braves were gaining in the trade! anyway, not saying giles and butler are anything alike - just saying butler was not well-liked in the clubhouse and if that drove the trade in any way it is too bad. there are cancers and there are some who are just plain envied. butler was toast of the town for a time - right down to the gwtw sounding name. (who remembers when general bob lee quaterbacked the falcons?) butler went on to play some pretty good baseball in l.a.
jimmy smith was just thinking what a good game hudson pitched to start the season. the movement on hudson’s pitches was great. let’s hope this is the hudson we will see all year.
By braveheart
April 6, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this
This is going to be so ugly for the Mets tonight and tomorrow:
Against lefties during their ENTIRE careers:
Edgar: .300/.384/.456
Chipper: .308/.396/.513
Andruw: .275/.366/.524
Wilson: .294/.393/.540
Frenchy: .316/.356/.595
Diaz: .303/.343/.471
McCann: .286/.360/.481
Why the hell would the Mets throw a lefty against these Braves hitters in the first two games of a series?
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 6, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
Metropolitan Man is going to the game with his girlfriend—so in order to keep in good standing as a gracious ambassador of good will on this blog, I would like to extend a warm hand of welcome, with all sincerity, to Metropolitan Man, and to his girlfriend by saying…Metropolitan Man, I hope that you, and your sister, both have a great time at the game tonight!!!…
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
braveheart cuz that’s all they got. You gotta dance with the one that brungya, even if she is ugly. How bad will we get to rag the crap out of the Meds fans, yeah I said Meds cuz they are going to need some after the butt wooping they got coming tonight. I’m thinking the Bravos got a chance at 14-0 to break their ‘82 record. Hey it could happen and I can say i called it. Nice stats braveheart. between you and KC ya’ll got the numbers down and well …… I’ll just keep razzing the idiot outsiders that show up around here. Everybody’s gotta have there role in life and I got mine and I’m just fine.
To quote the end of your movie….. SWWWWEEEEEPPPP’ EEEEEEMMMMMMMMMM!!
GO BRAVES!!!!!!
By David O'Brien
April 6, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
NEW BLOG is up, or will be in a minute or two. Be gentle on me. I’m jet-lagged.
By David O'Brien
April 6, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
Actually, just exhausted. Can’t be jet-lagged when you don’t even change time zones.
By Rodger
April 6, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
SJA, you are true to your word!
By caveman22
April 6, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
SJA ok , that was funny!!!!!!!!!1
By Chop Chop
April 6, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
Glavine’s career splits against left-handed and right-handed batters are basically the same:
Tom Glavine’s Career Pitching Splits
Glavine’s done pretty well against Chipper in the past. Renteria and Andruw have hit him at a healthy clip. McCann has 4 hits in 6 ABs against Tom. Francoeur’s over .300 against him.
On paper, it’s a favorable matchup for the Braves. I believe braveheart wondered why the Mets would start a lefty against the Braves. Well, the reasons why the Mets would start a lefty against the Braves in this series are simple: He’s the Mets’ No. 1 starter, he’s a great pitcher and he’s a future Hall of Famer. He’d be a Brave right now if Schuerholz had had the money this offseason.
Shoutout to Wayne in Utah. I don’t know if the “Chop Chop to the Mets” was a reference to my handle or not, but I’ll take it.
By Lew
April 6, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
Braveheart-For the same reason they went into the season with that group of pitchers-They got no sense. They’re New Yorkers. They thought Mo Vaughn would be their saviour. Besides, didn’t you listen to Little Chop Zone? Pelfrey is going from 21 ML IP to the Cy Young and Rookie of The year. Perez is going to come in second in the CY voting. What’s wrong with those of us who don’t find it that obvious? Every Mets fan will tell you that’s the way it is. Can you say Jeromy Burnitz? With a straight face?
By joebrave
April 6, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Joebrave is in the house after doing what apparently a couple peoplehere know very little about,had a load of work today,and I’m giving a traety of peace for a while since it is joebrave’s anniversary and he and his beautiful wife have plans for the evening,and since today is Palm Friday and Joebrave respects Jesus Christ he is gonna let eveyone else sling insults and go root for the Braves in person.so Met man and all you other northern sympathizers I’m sorry the Bravos have to wreck your parade but see ya at the game!!!!!!!!!!
By Lew
April 6, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this
JoeBrave-Congratulations on the anniversary. I agree-Go Braves.
By TheSouthernJackAss
April 6, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
joebrave—TheJackAss would also like to join Lew in congratulating you, and your lovely wife, on your anniversary, may you have many more, and I hope you both enjoy this holiday weekend!…