Braves

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable!…

By DonCoburleone

April 13, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

First again?

By AuburnStudent

April 13, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Im first yeeeeehawwww

By Summerteeth

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

Aye de mi…

By Ronnie

April 13, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

This has nothing to do with your posted subject, but why aren’t the home games on TBS in HD on Comcast cable anymore? I know Time Warner sold the team, but did they sell their HD cameras as well? Even after selling the team, Time Warner is looking for ways to kick Braves fans in the, well you know….

By chip

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

I’ve been waiting for you to say something about this, Dave. We’re getting absolutely nothing from three positions. The new right side of the infield sucks — both 1b and 2b. Wasn’t Prado knocking the ball around pretty well in spring training? And Escobar looked great (though not at second). How long before they at least look at some options? We could probably live with KJ’s lousy bat at 2B if either of the first basemen could hit anything…but they can’t. Thorman has looked lost; Wilson over the hill. And I’m willing to live with Diaz’s occasional follies in left if he continues hitting .300. Langy is quickly working himself into a new role as late-inning defensive stopper…not exactly the role we envisioned when we heard the Braves brass talking about him taking over in center once Andruw packs his bags. A shame all this good pitching is going to waste.

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

So far—it as if Redman is still playing for the Marlins!…

By brad in KY

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

There really isn’t anything surprising about Langerhan’s performance at the plate:

He was a career .265 hitter without much power in the minors, and with only one really good season (in 2004, .298, 20 hr at Richmond). He’s never been projected to be a great hitter either - the hope is that he’ll be just good enough at the plate to keep his glove on the field.

Diaz, although not as good defensively, is a much better hitter. It’s only a matter of time before he takes over in left on a regular basis, I think (although BC is stubborn about these things).

Looking at Thorman’s minor league stats, he was a much more consistent hitter that Langerhans with lots more pop. Again, I think it’s just a matter of time (and consistent playing time?) before he hits. Plus, I think the platoon is a mistake and they should just let Thorman play. Wilson isn’t that good against lefties.

Time.

By DonCoburleone

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

Yeah, not good numbers DOB. I have definately come around to giving Diaz a shot to play (nearly) every day in left field. A guy who hits over .300 and who strikes out half as much as Langerhans is exactly what we need out of the 8 spot… As for 1B, jeez. I guess if Thorman can get hot for a month it will be just like having LaRoche back… 4 months of garbage w/ 2 months of fire. KJ will come around, but I still argue he is a #5 hitter in the making, not a lead-off guy. We need to make a trade with the Reds for Ryan Freel. He’s already lost his job to Josh Hamilton, and he’s a much better lead-off man than KJ. Question is though, will Cincinatti take a bunch of junk for him? Maybe Yates, Langerhans, and a B prospect? I mean, shouldn’t be too difficult to get something done considering he doesn’t even start for them anymore…

By DonCoburleone

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

Here we go… Redman giving us a sneak peek at what we will be getting from him every other start or so…

By Braveone

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

DOB, Do you know why Phil Stockman is listed as Inactive on the Richmond roster? I sure would like to have him healthy & pitching like he did last year. He would be a BIG boost to the pen.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

This choice on Cormier shouldn’t be too hard. If Davies has another strong outing, I’d keep him up. I’d find a way to get Cormier a couple of starts as well. If he does well, I’d drop or trade Redman’s 750,000 contract. Some one might bite on that contract right? He’s a veteran. He’s cheap. Of course, he was available and unsigned for the longest time for a reason. That reason showed it’s ugly head tonight in the first inning. Bases juiced before an out recorded. 4 runs plated in a 3rd of an inning. It’s early. I know. But it looks like we have our new tool. It’s called Redman. I don’t like him one bit.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

DonC: Redman is cheap. He’ll give you 15 or so losses for pratically nothing. He can go right out there and stop a winning streak, pad the opponents offensive numbers, and demoralize your own team in only a third of an inning.

What a frickin tool.

By Tomahawkin' in Oregon

April 13, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

REDMAN SUCKS!!! Why do we suck on Fridays? Oh wait thats right Redman pitched both games.

By Matthew At The SLC

April 13, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

Here’s the thing: HOW ABOUT NO MORE STINKING PLATOONS!!!

How many good major league careers has Bobby Cox derailed or how many players did we have that we never really what we had because of his stubborness in making people play in platoons? I can name two All-Stars. Ryan Klesko. Jermain Dye. How about you just put the guys out there who have shown they can hit consistantly, like Matt Diaz, and sit guys like Langerhans who’ve only shown they’re streaky at best, no matter who the hell is pitching?

I know, that makes too much common sense for Bobby Cox to follow. So he’ll continue to insist young righties only hit lefties, and young lefties only hit righties because it’s worked SO well for him in the past. And THIS is the guy y’all love so much? But what do I know? I sure wouldn’t have started Brian Jordan in game one of ANY series when he was a prove wash-up. But that’s just me. And I also would have left Klesko alone, as well as Dye. But again, that’s just me.

Watch as Bobby meddles so much with his retarded platoon system, and in 5 years, Diaz and Thorman will be All-Stars for another team. It’s happened before and it’ll happen again. Guaranteed.

By dean

April 13, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

the braves do not have enough hittig to stay at the top. they will end up below 500 for the month.

By Calvin

April 13, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

At least we know who will get the boot when Cormier comes off the DL.

By Dudley Dude Right

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

Maybe Redman shouldn’t stock up on a lot of perishables,they don’t travel too well on a mover’s truck.

By TennesseePaul

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

Injury Delay. That’s all I get on the Game Day. Who’s injured? Someone please tell me it’s Redman. Foul ball knocked him out cold.

By DonCoburleone

April 13, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Great, 5-0 before the offense even takes the field with LEFTY Dontrelle Willis on the mound… And I’m officially done watching this game now… talk to you guys later.

By Steve

April 13, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

This just in;

MARK REDMAN SUCKS

more after the marlins score 5 more runs.

By Calvin

April 13, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Olivo for the Marlins to a ball in the groin…ouch.

By Dudley Dude Right

April 13, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Matthew My 12 year old niece used to call everything retarded.I explained that language told people about one person….the user.

By MEB

April 13, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Can someone remind me of the reasons why we acquired Redman. I know we needed a little insurance for Hampton but were we this desperate? Did someone from our scouting staff actually observe Redman in action. It looks to me like he has a batting practice type delivery with low velocity, minimal movement and poor control. The Braves are going to have to score runs in bunches when he pitches.

WOW!!! What a play by Rentaria!

By David O'Brien

April 13, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Yeah, as bad as Redmond looks, it’d be hard to justify keeping him IF Cormier is ready and Davies pitches well Saturday. However, I gotta think they’d want Cormier to make at least a rehab start or two now, since he’s not pitched in more than two weeks.

Not many, if any, of these Marlins hitters were even on the team in 2003 when they had Redmond, so it’s not like they have familiarity as an advantage.

They do, however, have a real lack of “stuff” (Redmond’s, that is) as an advantage.

By TennesseePaul

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

Glad we have our power platoon on the field. This should help Thorman and Langerhans get over their slumps. The entire division only needed to stock up on left handed pitchers so they could beat us. Now we have holes in the line up to match the holes in the defense. I like Pena. I’d rather have him than Pratt. But so far this guy has had trouble catching a beach ball.

By MEB

April 13, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul… during Rentaria’a at bat he fouled one at the plate and it caught Olivo the Marlins catcher square in the jewels. The man was in some extreme discomfort.

OOOOOOllllllivvvooooo!!!!!!

By Ron Roberts

April 13, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Screw this… if this is what we get from Redman, I’d rather see Oscar Villareal pitch in the rotation until Cormier comes back. Tonight was horrendous.

By ernesto

April 13, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

Not to pile on but…Redman blows. He’s got BP stuff so he nibbles and so he’s not getting any calls. This does not look good. At least it might be a productive L if it gets Redmond a trip to Richmond.

And when are we going to start hittign????????

By Eric C.

April 13, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Well…I came on here to state the obvious…which has been stated by many. Is Cormier the answer? Let’s go back to the 4 man rotation.

By ernesto

April 13, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Nice groover down the midle to make it 7 - 0, and what’s that going to do the ERA?

Playign behind this guy must just suck, he goes 3-2 on everyone, walks a ton…all and all I’m just not seeing why this guy needs to be on the club.

Even if it is just two bad starts, he’s such a junk baller, even if he wasn’t getting blasted in both starts, he’d be annoying to watch.

By Dudley Dude Right

April 13, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

You know when you think about it Redman only needs a few things to be effective movement,accuracy and velocity….oh! that’s everything isn’t it ?…never mind.

By ElbravoX

April 13, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

biggest comeback ever!!!!

By ernesto

April 13, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Whoooo- that AB for Villareal was FUGLY.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Time for a come back. Redman has been pulled. We have a chance now.

GO BRAVES!!

By brian

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

Since I like to overreact - why not make Villareal the 5th starter currently and pull Boyer or Devine from the minors to take Villareal’s spot in the bullpen?

By Atlanta Media Man

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

Joe Simpson….I heard your comment about the Braves official scorer tonight.

Let me say, I would value his baseball opinion over yours any day

I’ll add that it’s truly hilarious to see you wandering around the clubhouse after a game with a water bottle. As if you’ve actually done something the previous three hours.

By Dudley Dude Right

April 13, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Chipper….Chipper Jooones,Chipper Jones,Chipper Jones, Chipper Joooones,he’s got a thiiinnng goin’ ooon!!!

By Dudley Dude Right

April 13, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Fla,Yankees,Toronto,Minnesota

By woogidy

April 13, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Ronnie, I called TBS and Comcast today, and this is what I was told by both, Comcast did not renew their deal with the Braves to do the “Braves” channel. TBS then decided not to broadcast HD over the air because of cost concerns. Basically, Comcast screwed us on this because had they renewed their deal, TBS would be in HD. TBS also told me, look for TBS-HD in September. By the way, all these games are being produced in, but not broadcast in HD. Stupid huh? What a huge step backwards in the Technology.

By Dudley Dude Right

April 13, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

four for four..it’s outa here !!!

By krath

April 13, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Patience is when you stick with a guy who is trying to make it when he goes 2-35. Langy isn’t like 2-35….he stunk it up offensively all of last season! He’s a hell of a defensive player, but he just seems to be scared at the plate and scared doesn’t get it at this level. I have to give Thorman some more time. He deserves it. This has been dumped in his lap, and he doesn’t have a full year in the bigs.

It’s easy…. Diaz needs to be the everyday left fielder with Langy coming in late with the lead for defense.

Tonight’s game is why last night’s game was important. Redman isn’t effective (yet….. if ever)and your ace was going last night. You need to win when your ace is throwing because for right now anyway….. Redman is a throw away game.

I’ve already had my rant on the Braves overall hitting woes on the earlier thread.

By Najeh Davenpoop

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

I think the time has come to say goodbye to Albie… er, Mark Redman. Can’t wait until Cormier gets back.

By bamabrave

April 13, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

Whatis Cox’s continual fascination with soft tossing retreads? Not many major league hitters are going to be dominated with 84 mph fastballs no matter what the location is.

Great start to the season tonight withstanding. However, the strikeout bug is hitting the team again. Got to be more consistent in putting the ball in play.

By David O'Brien

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

Assuming they lose this game tonight, Redman will be 0-2 with a 12.96 ERA in two starts.

The rest of the Braves starters: 4-1 with a 1.93 ERA.

By Bill

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

I know it’s early and we should not panic but enough of this platooning. Langerhans and Diaz just can’t cut it. If they can’t make a trade, I’d rather suffer with Brandon Jones in LF. Bring up Salty and stick him at first and let him learn the position. I think KJ will come around at 2nd.

By ernesto

April 13, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

We’re just not good enough to carry Redman. And it looks like BC’s calling off hte dogs in this one, Renteria is out.

By jd

April 13, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

i’m a braves fan living in miami…been to a couple of their games-don’t give up hope yet…their bullpen is not great so we are not out of this….that said, DOB is dead on: langy won’t hit 240, and thorman is a question, and left field and first base are not “weak hitter” positions…diaz can handle left, but BC is so willing to stick with questionable players-we may be seeing langy til july….on redman, remember he only had 3 weeks of spring training-he’s better than this; BUT davies and cormier are our future (hopefully) so let’s hope they can handle it now…the marlins do have a good hitting lineup, though…they could be tough

By jp

April 13, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

you have to get rid of Redmond. Not only is he not any good but he’s also cocky and won’t admit he messes up. Like last week when he gave up alot runs in 6 innings, he said he had a good day and didn’t admit he was bad. That’s not good.

Matt Diaz has to be the starter by end of this month. That is just a given and smart to do but Bobby is too loyal to his older players so we’ll see how this goes. Yes langerhans has better defensive capabilties but he just cannot hit.

Thorman nor Kelly Johnson are as good as advertised. Johnson looks like he may be able to break out of it but if not then we have to call up Prado and I wonder why the organization still won’t give Salty a try at 1st? Do they plan on trading him because mccann is going to be the catcher till 2012. And he’s too good to be the backup.

What is it with this organization lately? I don’t know what’s going on like such as keeping pete orr instead of prado. Or keeping langerhans as your starter when Diaz is a .300 hitter. I just don’t know, but i’m still a big braves fan.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 13, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Okay…. I Predicted 11-10, somebody is not holding up their end…

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 13, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Okay…. I Predicted 11-10, somebody is not holding up their end…

By StingerSplash

April 13, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this

What the Braves need to do is trade Redman for Oliver Perez, then convince Perez he has an ailment, like whooping cough or rickets, so he has to be on the DL. That way, the Braves don’t have to face him and since they are the only ones seemingly incapable of ripping his udders, by trading Redman for him and putting him on the DL, he can’t fatten anybody else’s stats either. It’s Machiavellian, but why not?

By JACK

April 13, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Dave just a reminder the 1B job was delt with last year,when Bobby Cox stoped PLATOONING players EVERY-Day. AND the same thing could be said for the left-field position,At the 2B position good-god give Kelly Johnson a break the guy Has two week’s of on the JOB TRANING,Cox needs to decide on either Thorman or Wilson at first base and NAMe a STARTER, and let the guy get into a rythem,theSame thing for left-field choose either Diaz or Langerhans and let them play their way out of the starting job.As to Mccay McBride it just seems to me that Pitching Coach Roger McDowell is JUST NOT DOING HIS JOB.If I can watch on t-v and spot things that the braves pitchers are doing wrong with no traning at all that HE could figure it out real quick and the SAME COULD BE SAID FOR HITTING COACH TERRY PENTLTON,IF HE WAS DOING HIS JOB WITH THESE GUY’S THE BATTING AVERAGE WOULD NOT BE SO LOUSEY.

By NCBravesFan

April 13, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

DOB Any reason that Redman was available in the spring at such a low price? Was he coming off an injury or something?

Guy has a track record of being a solid #3 who wins 12-15 a year. Dudes who have done a lot less in their careers are making a lot more (Marquis, et al).

He looks like Larry Gura at the end of his career so far. (As a Royals fan of old, watching Gura at the end was painful!)

By Greg in TN

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

Evening gang…

Not a whole lot to cheer for especially when looking at the first inning and the fact that Barry “The Clear” Bonds hit two homers tonight in his old stomping grounds.

It looks as if the Mark Redman experiment hasn’t worked out. It was worth a shot to see if he was serviceable at the back end of the rotation at the point in time we needed to sign one. Fortunately, Cormier isn’t too far away from returning.

As I am typing this Paronto just began hobbling after delivering a pitch. Wow, Friday the 13th isn’t going our way tonight.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Joe Simpson said that Chipper Jones was a “toe head”—-what is the significance of this jimmy smith?…

By gotigers72

April 13, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Looks like Redman is making the decision easy for the Braves’ brass. Does anybody now wonder why he was sitting at home w/o a contract and the Braves were able to pick him up for less than $1 mil? Looks like the Braves would have learned their lesson with soft tossing lefties. Odalis is 0-2, been lit up in both starts, HoRam was getting lit up, but the game ended up being called due to snow. Bruce Chen, etc.

Redman to Richmond or below, Cormier and Davies to 4 and 5 until Matt Harrison or somebody else is ready. But who knows, maybe Cormier or Davies will work out, but Redman won’t.

By Dudley Dude Right

April 13, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

DOB I suggest Cox checks the farmers almanac,if it calls for rain pencil in Redman.

By ernesto

April 13, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

54 you’re going to win, 54 are goign to go the way things did tonight, what we do with the other 54. At least we’re not wasting a lot of offense. Shame on Paranto though, Peter Moylan anyone?

By Oddjob

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

I said in spring training that Mcbride was releasing the ball early,I stand by that.

By chipdip

April 13, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

redman sucks….kelly johnson will be a bust….no giles…laroche…betemit…furcal…mazzone…the heart is gone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! why does it hurt when i pee!!!!!!!!!!!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

At least that guy who threw the ball in from the stands got it across the plate…

By HEE-HAW

April 13, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

HEE-HAW That Francouer is some kind of superstar. HEE-HAW

Joe Simpson has a water bottle? Does that worthless, pedantic, nepotistic, pos, Chip Carey have one?

By Robert

April 13, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Here comes Donk

By krath

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

Guess what…. Mets are tied with the Braves for the East lead….or at least will be when the Braves game is over.

Gonna be a looooooonnnnnnnng season!

By Oddjob

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

Let me add that it looks like Mcbride is using wrist action instead of a good follow through.

By chipdip

April 13, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

mcbride should be bent over and made to squeal like a pig!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! f—-king fat worthless porkchop.

By krath

April 13, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Diaz at first? Interesting.

By Oddjob

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

I like Yates potential a big bunch,I’d like to see him emulate Smoltz.he has a simular body and motion.

By Robert

April 13, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Mound conversations to remember

McBride - Hey Donk, what are you doing out here?

Cox - I dunno. Someoneput the hat with the carrot dangling from it on my head, so here I am. You’re McBridey, right?

McBride - Yeah, that’s right.

Cox - Well, hey. It’s a nice view out here.What’s the score?

McBride - 10-3, we’re losing

Cox - Oh. That’snot good. Listen, why dont you run down into the clubhouse and grab a couple sugar cubes and I’ll meet you back in the dugout in a few.

McBride - Sure Donk. Does this mean I get to stay with the team?

Cox - HEE-HAW!

And with that, Yates enters from the bullpen and Donk and McBride head to the bench

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Damn!!…Poindexter is bringing it!…someone unscrew Andruw out of the ground please…

By MEB

April 13, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

When the Braves stink it up the crazies certainly do make an appearance.

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

Oddjob—bet you know alot about wrist action…

By krath

April 13, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Okay….. got it figured out. Andruw wants to stay in Atlanta really badly. The problem is, he owes Scott Boras after going around him last time he negotiated with the Braves.

So Andruw is gonna tank this season. He’s gonna hit 19 HRs, drive in about 70 and hit .230. His market value will go down to about 13 mil a year. He’ll stay in Atlanta and everyone will be happy! Except for Boras.

Okay…..maybe that ain’t it huh?

By Oddjob

April 13, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Listening to James I’m reminded of a David Allen Coe line,it goes like this if that ain’t country I’ll kiss your a*.

By Scalp 'em Braves

April 13, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

I’m a laissez-faire type. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I don’t pretend to know more than John Schuerholz, Bobby Cox, Terry Pendleton or the rest of the experts the Braves pay to advise them. With that said, here goes.

I have been a Langy fan, and defender. My support is wavering. He is killing us, offensively. Still great defense, but I haven’t seen Diaz pull any bone headed moves defensively (yet). I think its time to give “Magellan” the job, full time, and keep Langerhans for defensive relief (left or center, as needed).

Redmond - two starts, two fiascoes. If Cormier is ready, and healthy, bring him on - and send Redmond down to the minors or to the pasture. I’d rather take a chance on Villareal starting than this guy, unless he has stored his “good stuff” in a locker somewhere, and decides to pull it out and wow us.

Wilson/Thrman platoon - Bobby has put Diaz at first - maybe a possibility? I agree that the current situation is not working, though not ready to give up on Thorman. I wonder how he would do against lefties - he sure hasn’t had the chance against them, and Wilson hasn’t done anything so far.

Don’t think we need to make wholesale changes. Tonight was a disaster - must be a Friday night game thing (remember our game last week against the Muts, 11 runs given up). But, we are not as bad as some will proclaim here, and not as good as us positive thinkers would like to believe.

Yates getting out of a bases loaded jam, for the second night in a row, is encouraging.

By brian

April 13, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

DOB - any chance the Braves dump Redman now and make Villareal the 5th starter and recall Boyer or Devine from Richmond?

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

No excuse!…it looks like the “Franchise” Francoeur is using Hoss’s glove tonight—the one with the hole in it…

By Oddjob

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

I’d take winning two games 3-2 followed by one 11-3 repeated all season.It’d make for an ugly stat sheet except for wins that’d be real pretty.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 13, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Look for Morlan

By Gil in Mechanisville

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

Boyer’s hurt, Devins not ready

By brian

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

this game will simply give more fodder to the Baseball Tonight crew so they can continue to talk about the rebirth of the Mets-Phillies rivalry since they and they alone will battle for the NL East crown.

Anyone else get tired of listening to those guys ignore the Braves and blow smoke up the Phillies and Mets a$$ (and of course the yankees and Red Sox as well)

By Oddjob

April 13, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

SJA I swear I can almost hear a lisp in you’re writing, good night girls.

By Scalp 'em Braves

April 13, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Anybody got a link they can poat to the poll for the greatest 50 defensive playrs? I have looked for it, but not yet found it. I want to vote to push Dru past Griffey Jr.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

Well now if anybody could—it would be you Knobjob…

By MEB

April 13, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

I’ve had a wonderful evening - but this wasn’t it. This an old Groucho Marx line but I know exactly how he feels. I hope the weather will allow us a chance to even the series. See ya’ll later.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Redman has had 2 starts. In those two games the Braves are 0-2. We have been out scored 5-22. 22 frickin runs. I dislike Redman and look forward to the Braves leaving on a road trip without him. Maybe we can trade Redman for Bergmann.

By Scalp 'em Braves

April 13, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

Brian:

We all get tired of the national media propping up the big market, big money teams. We hope for a tidbit of exposure/praise/love for the Braves. However, it ain’t coming our way. The props are given here. This is where I come for my Braves fix (even SJA’s whinnying, bleating and squealing like a pig - and, every once in a while he makes a rational, lucid point or statement - notice I didn’t accuse you of braying - that is reserved for Robert). Amongst all the fighting, arguments, idiocy, etc, you will find that despite this being an extremely disfunctional “family” or group, there is more useful info on the team here than anywhere else.

By krath

April 13, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

It’s great to have pitching. With the exception of the Redman situation… I feel the Braves have a chance every night. If they can find some offense, they can be right there all year long.

If someone had told me in March, that the team would be 7-3 after 10 games….. I would have been happy as hell! My call with my buddies was 8-6 after 14 games.

Good start….. but gonna have to find some hitting somewhere to keep it up.

All in all a good first 10 days.

By A.J.

April 13, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

TenneseePaul: I think it would only be worthwhile to trade for Bergmann if we are playing intrasquad games.

I don’t believe he will look as good again this season as our guys made him look last night. I’m sure you realize that, and were joking, but it leads nicely to my point.

We have an amazing ability to make mediocre pitchers look great, like Bergmann, like Oliver Perez. Remember Ramon Ortiz last season. It doesn’t dissuade me from the fact that we are a good hitting team, but those streaks where we just CAN’T hit are really frustrating.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

Zero the Controls.
This may all sound confusing but I won’t let you use me. Are you into mass destruction? ‘Cause if you’re not, I hope you can forgive me.

This is all that I can hear when Redman toes the slab. Totally displeased with this clown.

By Coach

April 13, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Well , that was all to predictable. Obviously , the Redman experiment is going to end soon , but not soon enough for my taste. The Braves will have to find another option and Cox prefers a lefty. Hopefully , Davies can contribute another solid outing tomorrow and force Cox to consider having both Davies and Cormier at the back of the rotation. After Wickman , Gonzalez and Soriano the rest of the bullpen looks vulnerable. Diaz at first , now there is an idea. A word to Francoeur: You might want to consider using both hands and breaking in a glove before you use it in a game !

By Scalp 'em Braves

April 13, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

*By TheSouthernJackAss

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

Oddjob—bet you know alot about wrist action…*

JackAss - good take, good post, quick wit -gonna leave it to you and the rest of the douchebags here to figure out wrist action - me, being as it is 10:00 Central, I’m going upstairs and get laid - the benefit of being a stud for 26 1/2 years to the same woman - Night All.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

AJ: That was a joke. No body is going to want Redman. Not even as a tire stop for a minor league bus.

By KC

April 13, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

Well hey, it’s only two bad starts. Surely Redman will come around, right?

But… well, there’s this nagging feeling … somehow I can’t help but feel that his first two starts were no fluke, but… I can’t put my finger on the reason… OH YEAH! Now I remember. It’s probably that 5.71 ERA he posted last year.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

TBS may discontinue broadcasting the Braves games if Redman continues to pitch on Friday night.

Then again it could do a feature on his locker that bears a striking resemblance to a bomb shelter that comes from his being shelled so much.

By KC

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

To hell with rehab starts!!!!! Get Cormier in the dugout yesterday!!!!!

By JasonInMaine

April 13, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Well, I had the right number when I posted my over/under question in the other blog…I just didn’t think Redman would let up 5 in the first inning. Can he be a situational lefty because he isn’t going to give much in the rotation.

Like many of you, I have watched every pitch he has thrown in his two starts. After watching him, I am not surprised at the runs he has let up; I am surprised that he has gotten anyone out. At the sake of being repetitive, he looks likes he should be downing a brew and playing slow pitch softball.

But, we are still playing .700 ball. I think everyone knew going into the season that the Braves had 3 glaring weaknesses in the lineup: 1b, LF, and 2b. This undeniable problem was the primary reason why people were clamoring for Baldelli and others. If you get one more good bat, a cheap one at that, that can leadoff and stick KJ in the 8 hole, now your lineup doesn’t look so bad. Of course, hindsight is 20/20, and it now appears as though it is a good thing that the Braves didn’t trade Davies.

The Braves will certainly be competitive, and I expect them to be fighting for a playoff spot come Sept. I think the pen will actually get better, and the starting rotation with the exception of Redman has been outstanding. But, to be a true contender, JS should take as much of that insurance money as possible and plug one of the 3 glaring weaknesses in this lineup.

By Robert

April 13, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Later, in the dugout

McBride - Here you go Donk. I think Langey has some Tootie Rolls. Want me to get you one?

Cox - Yeah, that sounds yummy. In the meantime, I’m gonna get that carrot

McBride - Donk, about the carrot. You cant get it

Cox - Whatdaya mean I cant get it? It’s right there, one step away

McBride - Donk, it’s attached to the hat. When you move, it moves, and

Cox - Son, listen here. I’ve been a big league manager for lotsa years. How many division titles you won son? That carrot is one step away I tell ya. By the time youre back with that tootsie roll, I’ll be munchin that carrot. You’ll see

McBride - Sighs. But Donk

Pendleton - Dont, son. Dont. It’ll just upset him. Just get him the tootsie roll, then give him a belly rub. And dont forget to clean up the mess he made.

By HEE-HAW

April 13, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

(pssss…) (I’m going to bat Johnson leadoff the entire season. No matter how bad he hits.)

HEE-HAW

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 13, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

All in all pretty ugly game for Redman and McBride…. Positive for Yates…

By KC

April 13, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

LEW: “If Diaz is as great as you seem to think, then it is totally mistifying why in all this time, he never caught on with such talent laden teams as the DRays and the Royals”

Simple… they never gave him a chance. Diaz had a grand total of 119 at-bats through his first 3 seasons with TB and KC.

The fact of the matter is that Diaz hit .327 through nearly 300 at-bats against major league pitching last year. Now he’s hitting .368 so far this year. You’ve got to give this guy a chance to play everyday.

He’s earned it.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

Hey Basement Boy your parents know you are playing with their computer late at night again?

By KC

April 13, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

Gil: Yeah, Yates has looked good the past couple of days. That’s the good news.

But good Lord, in the name of all that is holy… buy Mark Redman a one-way bus ticket TONIGHT!!!

By David O'Brien

April 13, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

Paronto’s going on the DL and Moylan’s going to replace him.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

KC… I think that is why Bobby moved him to first tonight in the late innings.

By Coach

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

750,000.00 for Redman and the Braves are getting their money’s worth.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

Braves have never used that many true first basemen

By ERC

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

Hey DOB, great job by your boy. All spring training you wrote Pro-Redman and Cormier articles and then every negative thing you could make up about Davies.

I hope you’ve learned your lesson and be an unbiased media member.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

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

Knew Moylan was first in line… has been pitching great… Was going to the Richmond game tommorrow…

By brian

April 13, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

thanks Scalp ‘em. I have loved coming here the past 6-9 months for my Braves fix. Much props to DOB

Good thing we did not trade our SP or RP depth this spring

By KC

April 13, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine:

Yeah, the Braves are going to be just fine. It’s actually very encouraging that the Braves have started 7-3 with the immense struggles of Langerhans, Thorman, Wilson, and especially Redman.

I suspect Redman will be gone soon. He’ll probably get one more start (unfortunately), and if he blows it… he’ll most likely lose his job to Cormier (assuming Davies looks half-way decent tomorrow).

I think the offense at 1B will come around. Perhaps this platoon with not hit the .270, 25-HR, 80-RBI they were hoping for out of 1B… but this platoon will hit sufficiently for the 7th/8th slot in the order.

If Davies and Cormier both come through, GREAT! But if either or… shudder… neither come through well this year, we’ll be in the market for another starter. But personally, I think Davies and Cormier are going to be fine.

The good news is that if there’s a piece we need… now that they know insurance money will be coming for Hampton, they should have plenty of payroll flexibility to make nearly any kind of deal. Anyway, once again… they’ll be fine (so long as Mark Deadman doesn’t stick around too long).

By KC

April 13, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

DOB: Any word on how well Phil Stockman is pitching or on Boyer’s recovery/progress?

By KC

April 13, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Gil: I didn’t see the game tonight (as good a night to miss as any, apparently)… that’s why Bobby moved WHO to first??

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em Stud—26 1/2 years with the same woman?—guess whinnying, bleating, and squealing like a pig is nothing new to you then, and you would have to be damn near expert as far as douchebags are concerned—so it’s 10:00 in the teepee and the stud’s a gettin’ laid tonight huh?…well I was just wondering what you and the lucky little lady will be doing from 10:03 on??…sure hope for your sake that she never gets out in the real world…

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

DOB: What’s up with Paranto? Why the DL? I guess I missed something in the game…

By JasonInMaine

April 13, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the quick update on Paronto and his replacement. One half of our bruise brothers is now on the DL…let’s hope the other half stays healthy!

For pure speculation, let’s say the Braves finally realize that a Langy/Diaz platoon isn’t working and that Wilson is going to be a PH. Also, let’s say that the Braves decide to give Diaz a shot to get some at bats at 1b. Do the Braves have no one that can play LF? No lead-off types? No one with any pop? Who is the #1 OF prospect in all of your minds?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 13, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Hey ERC You Davies agent? Facts are what they are…. Sometimes being sent down wakes a kid up. Davies so much as said so himself. Were you there? If so why didn’t you blog? IDIOT Oh, I’m sorry… where are my manners? * MR. IDIOT* to you..

By JasonInMaine

April 13, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

KC, just in case Gil has signed off, BC moved Diaz to first in the late innings. As DOB mentioned, he make a pretty nice scoop and throw to home plate to nail a runner.

In my opinion, Davies looked as good as I have ever seen him his last start, including his debut against Boston. He had another great game, at the Mets I think, where he went 8 if my memory serves me, but in any event; he looked good. Here’s to hoping he has turned the corner (of course, he is still young) and is becoming the prospect that the Braves envisioned. This would be a perfect time!

By Coach

April 13, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

KC , I could have told you all this about Redman a month ago , no wait…… I did tell everybody this would happen , a month ago.

By TennesseePaul

April 13, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

KC: I think part of the Redman problem is the lack of starting pitching depth we will have once we yank him out of the line up. So far we’ve had zero fortune with these 30 something lefties. I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised to see a trade should the correct choice be made and Redman is removed from the pen. We will need something in the event another starter gets hurt. It could easily topple back to 2006 starting rotation woes if we fail to find some source of major league ready or AAAA pitcher to be on standby.

By HP

April 13, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

We now know why nobody signed Redman before the braves did. If he can’t pitch good against our division rivals than there is no point to keep him on the braves roster. I just hope Cormier comes back very soon.

I will say again that McBride needs to go minors to fix his control. How can Roger McDowell say that McBride can fix his problems up here. The Braves will lose all the game he pitches if he continues to walk most of the player he faces. By the way, he allowed two walks again tonigt. On the bright side, Tyler Yates looks great on the mound past two games.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 13, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

KC … Moved Diaz to play first after putting in Langerhans to play left field. Wilson started at first tonight with Diaz playing in left. Cox used Thorman earlier as a pinch hitter.

By David O'Brien

April 13, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

HP, agree with you regarding McBride.

KC, considering Richmond had played a total of four games before Friday, I’d say neither Stockman nor Boyer has had sufficient time to either build arm strength or get sharp in Stockman’s case, since he’s barely pitched at all since hurting his hamstring last season and having surgery in January and the back-injury setback this spring.

By Robert

April 13, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Tough game. Tough being down 5-0 before the fans in the upper deck can find their seats.

Of course, once they were down 5-0, the Braves knew not what to do except to play for the 6-run homer.

Agreed that Redman probly has one or two more chances before he is replaced, but he isnt really the problem.

As good as the starting pitching is overall, as good as the bullpen might look, this team can be pitched to. As a team, they lack plate discipline and strike out a lot

7-3 is nice. Sure it is. 5 of those wins are against two teams that a combined 5-17.

This isnt a bad team. But it isnt a great team. And they sure cant look to their manager for any advice or help

If they make the playoffs, the first fundamentally solid well managed team they see will humilioate them

By ERC

April 13, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Gil no need for the insults, just wanted to point out that he highlighted every positive aspect about Redman and every negative about Davies. Looks to me he was biased towards Redman.

Like when Redman got lit up in a minor league game, he offered the excuse that he was working on his breaking stuff. He also used words like Redman and Cormier had unsermountable leads over Davies when Kyle was pitching much better than Redman.

By David O'Brien

April 13, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

Coach, they’re getting their money’s worth? Man, then $750,000 means less to you than it does to me (but I get your point).

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 13, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Robert—-switch the ‘er’ in your name with an ‘o’…then, for all you alphabetically-challenged geniuses out there, you will be the ‘Robot’…cause you’re like a damn robot…I was just wondering, if somewhere in your past, did Bobby Cox bang your sweetheart or something, was he the neighborhood bully that kicked your A$S everytime you came out to play, or maybe you were kicked in the nads by a donkey named Bob, which was it?…

Robot—you give so many reasons why you dislike Bobby Cox, but you never give a reason why you dislike Bobby Cox, get it?…you must love the guy, is that it, are you enamored with the man, do you adore the man, ARE YOU BOBBY COX??…

I’ve never seen anyone who is that obsessed with someone else as much as you seem to be preoccupied with Cox…are you a stalker, what’s your story Robot?…cause you’re making no sense whatsoever…do you need a doctor, do you need medication, do you need a blog intervention??…Admit it Robot, admit that you have a problem…cause that’s the first step to recovery…

By Dr. Jay

April 14, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Alas…chinks in the armor. Spring training is a tryout. NOW is when you know who will make the varsity. While I feel 162 games is horrendously long…it does give everyone the chance to have two weeks of last-cut evaluation time. The season will truly start (unless you’ve gone 2-13) this weekend. My point? Mr. Cox knows what he’s doing. If you suspected weak links in the chain, figure that out versus DC and/or the Marlins. This is the year, homeys. Take that to the bank.

By Coach

April 14, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

Phil Stockman isn’t even on the Richmond Roster at the moment , which can’t be good. Yunel Escobar is lighting up triple A pitching with eight hits in sixteen at bats. Nighty night ladies.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

April 14, 2007 12:17 AM | Link to this

Has anyone considered maybe McDowell should go back to the minors, take McBride with hime so that he can help him. Maybe he should take redman also, don’t the Braves have a clue that if a player is not wanted by other teams, there may be a reason. Langerhans has been a real disappointment, Diaz is a much better hitter. Why in the world play Wilson? Maybe we should give KJ and ST a chance? The Braves are staring to look like a lot of bluster w/o anything behind it. Which brings me to Mike Hampton….

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 14, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

Okay, that’s it for me too… Rough weather ahead.

By Thomas

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

Hello everybody,

If anyone of you saw tonights game, you saw the typical pitching of Mark Redman. Who ever recomended him to JS, was wey wasted. He was an allstar last year, but with Kansas City, and kansas didn’t have anyone else to send, and each team needed to have at least two players in the allstar game. Kansas was so awful last year he was their best player (“5.71 ERA”).

I know this was just a temporary solution until mike Hampton got back, guess what, his not coming back. But it is not a total lose situation, now the braves have an extra 13 million to sign any pitcher for one year.

PS: I think Bobby should have used redman against washington, and Smoltz against Florida.

By va brave

April 14, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

Braves should trade Chipper and get some good young pitchers while he still has value…Andrew too! This team will struggle hitting all year. Chipper only hits HR’s when the braves are up 10-0 or losing 9-0.Its time to rebuild this team and stop looking for $750,000 deals like Redman.You usually get what you pay for!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

It could be that the Braves are missing Adam LaRoche’s 3 for 34/ 2 hit/ .088 batting average…

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 14, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

I think that McBride may need to go down to the minors and the Braves should call Ascaino up along with Moylan. A couple of weeks at Richmond would get McBride straight. The Braves can survive with only one lefty in the pen.

Now, I still believe Kelly Johnson will be okay. He is hitting the ball hard. It just seems to be right at people. He hit a couple of ropes tonight. The ab in the 9th almost got out of the park and would have in a lot of parks. However, Thorman, Langerhans, and Wilson are really beginning to worry me. As DOB said, Wilson has to have the benefit of the doubt because of his track record. However, the other two I’m not so sure. Langerhans looks completely lost and Thorman looks overmatched.

I found it a bit interesting that Diaz got some time at 1B tonight. Would Cox consider playing Diaz at 1B more reguarly and possibly calling up Blanco or Bohn from the minors to play LF? I have to believe that if Langerhans has another week to 10 days like the first two have gone that the Braves will consider sending him down. Maybe JS can even pull off a trade. Honestly, I would rather have Blanco playing LF (even if he has no power) and producing a .350 or better OBP than to watch Langerhans either wiff or hit some weak popup every AB.

This team has the talent to win the East but they will not win the division with Thorman and Langerhans looking like they have no clue at the plate.

And, Redman may have one more start to stay in the rotation. If Davies has another good outing tomorrow, then he and Cormier will fill the last two spots in the rotation.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 14, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Here’s a question. If Langerhans and Thorman keeps sucking and Escobar keeps hitting, would the Braves consider calling up Escobar to play 2B and move Johnson out to LF and place Diaz at 1B?

By ERC

April 14, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Blanco is raking in AAA and an OBP machine taking a ton of BB. I would call him up and send Langerhans down, let him lead-off and KJ can hit 7th where I think he would be more comfortable and can better utilize his RBI capabilities.

By David Duncan

April 14, 2007 1:02 AM | Link to this

The Braves can’t possibly beat the Mets powerful lineup with the likes of Langerhans, Johnson, Thorman and Wilson. Bobby Cox will keep using Redman in spite of his ineffectiveness. When the Braves pitch Redman it is the sames as giving the opposing team an automatic win.With the Braves offense headed for last in the NL, the Braves will fade and the Mets will run away with the NL East.

By TennesseePaul

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

I think it’s a little too early to make moves concerning Thorman, KJ and Langerhans. However, I don’t think it’s too early to scrape off Redman. I don’t see this guy getting any better. Even if he did have a full spring training. The guy blows.
We are going to need more pitching if and when Redman is dropped. Putting Cormier and Davies in the rotation leaves us completely open in the spot start area. Pretty much we’ve gone from 7 starters to 5 in the span of 2 weeks. We’ll have some money from the insurance, so we could pick up something. Not sure what that would be though. And I can’t imagine a trade would be made in April. It is early. But not too early to admit that Redman stinks.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 14, 2007 1:14 AM | Link to this

All I will say is this. If Langerhans and Thorman continue to struggle I think we could very well see Brandon Jones, Gregor Blanco, or TJ Bohn in Atlanta very soon.

By CASHMERE

April 14, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

damn can we look at the minors now!!! i think its time for BRANDON JONES,PRADO,JO-JO REYES,DAN SMITH,GREGOR,BOHN,AND THAT KAALUE GUY TO GET SOME TIME. BETTCHA WISH WE TRADE FOR BALDELLI,OR CARL CRAWFORD NOW!!!!

By buttsniffer

April 14, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

• Langerhans will never be above a .240 batter. He has the athletic programming of a highly coordinated guy (think Reggie Ball throwing off his back foot) who reverts to either-foot motions. He doesn’t shift his weight forward and his upper body/arms are too weak, thus his bat is too slow.

He’ll NEVER be a hitter.

Redman was a good gamble. Oops. Too much rust and not enough pop. Quick. On to Plan B or C.

Johnson will emerge at second. Thorman will struggle at first but Wilson can take over. Neither position will be a strength, but both will be adequate if the core of the Joneses, McCann, Frenchy and Renteria have usual seasons.

It’ll come down to starting pitching.

Forget Redman. It comes down to keeping Smoltz, Hudson and James healthy and productive, then EITHER Davies or Cormier a consistent winner. We won’t have five steady winners. We’re hoping for four.

And for Diaz to be an every day LF guy. Forget Langerhans.

bs

By joebrave

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

Hey Robert,get your nose out of Bobby’s arse,You must want to blow him or something!as far as Redman,Langy,And Diaz agreed on all counts.but what about Wilson and Woodward? Oh yeah the entire team sucks at the plate!!!

By CASHMERE

April 14, 2007 2:05 AM | Link to this

HAVE YA HEARD OF JON OWINGS AND DUSTIN EVANS??!!!! THESE KIDS NEED TO MOVE UP FROM MYRTLE AND AT LEAST BE GETTING GROOMED FOR MID-SEASON

By Jeff

April 14, 2007 2:07 AM | Link to this

there are 3 glaring problems with the Braves. 1. the lineup Bobby uses against lefthanded pitching is way to weak. 2. Redman needs to be cut — we can use Villareal or somebody from Richmond until Cromier is ready. 3. McBride and Yates also should be cut

By A

April 14, 2007 2:17 AM | Link to this

there is a reason for redmond not being signed for so long..he stinks…and as much as i wanna believe the Braves will win the Division, the hitting probably will cost them this year…Go Braves

By Scott

April 14, 2007 2:28 AM | Link to this

Redman is terrible. He’s not a major league pitcher anymore and should be released. McBride has something mentally wrong with him and he needs to work it out in Richmond. The Braves offense has to get something going. Right now they are waiting around for the homerun to bail them out.

By gobraves39401

April 14, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

Redman is got to go!!What about the young lefty harrison in spring training.If Bobby HAS to ave a lefty give him a shot.

I agree with the post about Langerhans,hes not the on for left .On other teams the have power hitting players there.When and who was or last power hitter in left…Chipper??Man its been a while.

By old timer journalist

April 14, 2007 4:20 AM | Link to this

In the Marlins clubhouse after the game, players were raving about former teammate Mark Redman.

“He’s sneaky slow,” said third baseman Miguel Cabrera. “Even sneakier and slower than when he pitched over here.”

Redman has a way of showing hitters the ball that makes his 82-mile-an-hour fastball seem like 75, players said.

“He’s a comfortable 3-for-4,” said Cabrera, who spoke on the condition that he not be identified. “At the end of the game, you’re shaking your head, wondering how you didn’t go 4-for-4.”

By gd from NZ

April 14, 2007 4:22 AM | Link to this

Yes its pretty clear Redman is not doing the business right now, but i think its a little early to write him off, after all its only 2 starts. When Cormier is activated, why not send Redman down to the minors to get some work (remember he was a step behind everyone else as he started spring training late). You can’t just release him after 2 starts.

Villareal looks like he could be starter material as well, don’t forget him. I think you still to think 6-7 starters in this organisation with the amount of injuries that happen. I thought Bobby should have hooked Redman 1 batter earlier today. Allowing Redman to pitch with the bases loaded then bringing in Villareal after a 2 run single didn’t seem to make a lot of sense. I’d have brought in Villareal with the bases loaded. If he gets the next guy out inning over without much more damage.

I’m not worried about the lack of hitting, remember its still early, gotta give these guys a chance to work into some form, some guys will take longer than others to get into it.

All in all, still looking pretty good at 7-3, i’m sure we would all have taken that before the season started. Ditto Phillies at 2-8!!

I’m still frustrated at that Nats series. We should have saved Soriano, Gonzales for the last game, then we would have been in with a chance of a sweep - Bobby wouldn’t have had to leave Smoltz in there at the end.

By gd from nz

April 14, 2007 4:27 AM | Link to this

Pavano is skipping his next start due to shoulder soreness, anyone want to compare his $ per start compared to Mike Hampton?

By Josh C

April 14, 2007 5:44 AM | Link to this

A few thoughts…

It isn’t too early to cut losses on Langerhans. Dude has never hit in the bigs. Give Diaz the job. He is a career .300+ hitter and isn’t awful in left. Threw someone out tonight, no?

Redman is obviously not going to go 5-6 innings giving up 3-4 runs as the Braves had probably hoped (BTW, do the math. The stats I just mentioned represent ERAs of 5.4 and 6.00. If he did each half the time, that averages 5.7. Sound familiar?) He must go unless he really shows something next time out. Echo the idea of Villereal being the sixth starter- long relief guy. Remember the role Ramiro Mendoza played very successfully for the Yanks in the late 90s…

I think Kelly is OK leading off as he has shown a penchant for going deep in counts and taking walks. If he continues to see pitches his average will come.

I like the 1b platoon. Wilson is a solid career hitter and excellent pinch hitter. You must get him some ABs to stay sharp- he’ll come around. Thor is on the cusp of being ready for the big leagues. He doesn’t need to be facing lefties. He is NOT the LaRoche of last year.

Just my two cents, not that JS has me on speed dial…

By tensports

April 14, 2007 5:48 AM | Link to this

The Marlins are amazing. The have more talent than any team within$70 million of their payroll. Great, great young players, loaded farm system, great GM, awesome manager stolen from the Braves. Dontrelle Willis has the 2nd best winning % in April in MLB history. Ruth #1.

By LivininAL

April 14, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this

Diaz deserves to play full time. Braves should let Redman concentrate on throwing batting practice before games. For so career at bats, Andruw still can’t contol the country mile swing.

By JC FROM UT

April 14, 2007 8:00 AM | Link to this

DOB: Any chance that McBride is sent down to work things out and Buddy Calyle brought back. Carlyle pitched great this spring and if McBride is sent out then I think anothe lefty should replace him. Also since Redman signed a minor league contract can he be sent down or does he have to go through waivers due to his major league service time. I would hate to just release him if it is possible for him to “work things out” at Richmond and maybe use him later in the season if God forbid anyone else goes down or isn’t pitching well.

By LivininAL

April 14, 2007 8:01 AM | Link to this

Im afraid McBride is fighing more of mental/confidenceproblem than a “flaw in delivery” as suggested by Mcdowell

By d

April 14, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

Demote Redman now Bobby, don’t wait like you have with others, he’s not a big league pitcher.

By kudzu

April 14, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this

Hey RONNIE, just buy some “rabbit ears” and you can get TBS HD nice and clear…no rhyme intended.

By Carroll

April 14, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Stinger Splash: you said—

What the Braves need to do is trade Redman for Oliver Perez, then convince Perez he has an ailment, like whooping cough or rickets, so he has to be on the DL. That way, the Braves don’t have to face him and since they are the only ones seemingly incapable of ripping his udders, by trading Redman for him and putting him on the DL, he can’t fatten anybody else’s stats either. It’s Machiavellian, but why not?

Sounds good, but if we traded Redman for Perez, then we would just get owned by Redman we when faced him.

By ole coach

April 14, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Much rather see a rally than see Andrew Jones and Francour strike out trying to knock the air out of the park then go sit down w/men on base. Hey big boys grow up!!! We rather see you have 20 hr and 120 rbi’s than 30 hr’s and 88 rbi’s. This is a team game!!!!

By Braveheart

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

Great informative blog as always DOB.

As for the pen, why do we have so many dough boys out there? What do they do out there, eat Krispy Kreme all day? I know Bobby Cox made light of it the other day with some funny comments, but, in reality, is it all that funny?

Should it be shocking when Paronto gets hurt when he is easily 40 pounds overweight? Should it be surprising that McBride is inconsistent in his delivery and in throwing strikes when he is 30 or so pounds overweight? It does not shock me. It should not shock anyone else either. Being in shape allows you to bounce back the next day and to be consistent in your delivery mechanics.

If I were the Braves I would not have the guys in the pen work on their mechanics, I would have them run 10 miles a day and cut off the Krispy Kreme intake.

If they shed a few layers and mix in a few salads every once in a blue moon, maybe then they would be a little more consistent with their performance and mechanics.

Do they have a strength and conditioning coach on this team? If so, fire him. He is useless. Maybe they need to hire a proper nutrition guy as well.

Next time McBride enters the game, do not boo him. Start the Tomahawk Chop. But instead of doing the ole Seminole War Chant sounds, just chant “He loves Twinkies, Ho-Hos, and Devil Dogs, He loves Twinkies, Ho-Hos, and Devil Dogs, He loves Twinkies, Ho-Hos, and Devil Dogs.” Try that chant with the Chop and see how it flows.

Maybe that will be much more effective rather than boos in getting the message across from the fans as to what exactly McBride needs to do to start performing up to his undeniable abilities. All these walks after not walking much in the minors has too much to do with his caloric intake rather than anything else.

By Rodney Derrick

April 14, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

With Diaz showing that he can play first, and we know he can hit, what about the possibility of bringing Yunel Escobar up and letting him play left field. He is a great athlete and has a great arm. If Chipper did it, so could Yunel. With Renteria at short and the farm system stocked with great prospects for short and seconed and third, this would be a way to use his talents and also use him at short to rest Renteria and at third to rest Chipper (assuming Aybar takes forever to recover). This combination would give him plenty of at-bats. Then the Braves could unload the dead weights of Woodward and Wilson. Hopefully even sooner dead weight Redman will be gone as well.

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

And maybe instead of the chop, you just do the reverse chop as if you are feeding yourself when you chant the Twinkies, Ho-Hos, and Devil Dogs thing at him

By Bill

April 14, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

The Braves should have seen this coming. When are they going to realize they can’t win the losers such as Langerhans,Diaz,Redmond and Wilson. I’d rather suffer with some of the younger players. I don’t know why everyone is in love with Diaz. He’s no everday player. That why he was released by other organizations. They can’t send them to the minors, I don’t think they have any options left.

By Robert

April 14, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

You know, Redman stunk last night. There’s no denying it, no arguing it, and no going back and fixing it.

I am simply amazed however, at how quickly every blogger and their kid brother jump all over Redman’s case, while on the other hand, Cox, who has been stinking it up far worse than Redman for far longer than Redman, is STILL exonerated ahead of time and for all time.

Check this out, from another of today’s ajc.com articles

“Braves manager Bobby Cox was asked if he was concerned by Redman’s struggles.

“Not really,” he said. “”

How CLUELESS do you have to be to not be concerned? Does he not realize that this Redman person they are asking him about pitches for his team? Of course, Bobby wasnt concerned about Mike Hampton either, and look how well he’s been pitching. Oh wait,that’s right, he isnt pitching because he needed season ending surgery. But no reason for concern

Here’s another zinger:

“Gonzalez said …. he could never manage a team in exactly the same manner as Cox.”

Of course not, since he’s not nearly as STUPID as Cox

Of course, Bobby had some words of “wisdom” on facing his former underling

“”It’s odd going against them,” Cox said, smiling. “But it’s competition. Take the gloves off and let’s go.”“

Ungrateful SOB. Wants to bite the hand that had been feeding him sugar cubes all these years.

Forget taking the gloves off and going, Bobby. Just take the uniform off and go. Give this Braves team a chance, Bobby. Quit today.

What have we got left? 314 more?(unabashed displays of mindboggling stupidity personified(plus 3 or 4 special encores if we happen to make the playoffs) before the ‘08 season ends and the Cox era mercifully ends in Atlanta)

Never mind the situation. If there is a stupid move to be made in a tight ballgame, he will rapidly identify it and flawlessly execute it. As predictable as watching the coyote get abused and mangled in the roadrunner cartoons

By Robert

April 14, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

“I know Bobby Cox made light of it the other day with some funny comments, but, in reality, is it all that funny?”

Of course, jokingly or flippantly dismissing a situation that might be an area of true concern that needs addressing doesnt make him a bad manager, does it?

After all, Cox has never actually himself thrown the infamous one bad pitch

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Hey Andruw, you gotta swing at the pitch with your eyes open—same with catchin’…Francoeur!…

By mike

April 14, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Well I see some old habits surfacing Old “Hoss” hits a meaningless home run when are down by 7 and then goes into his give only 50% effort the rest of the game. That effort he gave trying to extend himself and catch the foul ball by the Marlins dugout should be on sports center. Bobby should sit Francour and remind him he has not accomplished anything at this time other than being the starting right fielder for the Braves that DID NOT make the playoff. His drops even though the one in foul territory would have been a nice catch are inexcusable. I have seen enough of our first baseman already to see it is going to be a bust. I do think Kelly Johnson will turn out to be a decent leadoff guy. Even though his average does not reflect it he hit the ball hard and I really like how he is taking the pitchers deep into the count. Annoint Matt Diaz as your everyday left fielder. He plays aggressive and smart. Platoon Langerhan with Francour, that should should send a reality check to “Frenchy”

By Yars

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

Let’s start with Kelly Johnson. He is playing better than expected defense at 2B, has a really good eye, knows how to work the count, drawing walks, scoring runs, has some pop in his bat, rarely strikes out, but has a pathetic average. I agree with a lot of you about him not being a leadoff hitter. If he were moved to the #6 or #7 spot in the lineup, I think his average would go up big time. For the time being, I guess Bobby has no plans on taking him out of the leadoff spot. However, if Bobby were a little more liberal, he could put Diaz/Langerhans in the leadoff spot for a few games, and see how that works. I truly believe that KJ is too good to be sent to Richmond. I can’t see that happening. As for Langerhans, if he keeps hitting like he has, maybe a 3-4 week stint in Richmond wouldn’t be a bad idea. Scott Thorman will come around. He looks too anxious at the plate. He needs to relax. Craig Wilson has been around for awhile so I will give him the benefit of the doubt. I think he will likely continue to have a slow April, but his bat will warm up in the coming months. When Lance Cormier is ready, I hope Redman is the odd man out. This guy stinks. I’d take my chances on Davies than Redman.

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

“When I throw a ground ball, I expect it to be an out, maybe two.” - Warren Spahn

Wonder what Spahn would have said about popups headed towards Frenchy, Chipper, and KJ?

By Nelson

April 14, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

I’m tired to say this: This Braves team is not the same we saw in spring training, we are missing two important pieces that gave the momentum they need (Escobar and Prado!) the were realyy hot and they played very good, they desrved the right to atart the season then if the shoes were too big then Bobby could call these two mediocre players (Wilson & Woodward), but always is the same with Bobby and the Braves!He cools the hot players! In other hands ANDREW is killing the team! as clean-up hitter I know Bobby doesn’t have too many choices but not even in his final year contract he is not able to fix the outside corner breaking ball problem, to me this is ridiculus in a profesionel player sorrounded by capable coaches. Finally altough Francouer is improving a little bit he is still an uncontrolled free swinger. About Thorman and Kelly we all know that we can’t expect a lot from them at least at the begining they are like rookies this year, we have to give them time.

By Tom

April 14, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Damn, Dave. Nothing like turning the heat up on the youngsters like a NY Times scribe, eh?

Not sure but it’s been 2 weeks, right? Wow…WOW. Small sample size to say the least.

Johnson and Thorman need a bare minimum of a month and if they’re still hitting a “buck-whatever”, then you start to look for alternatives. If they improve some in that span then you need to give them May to prove themselves. I mean, c’mon, it’s a marathon, not an NFL season of 16 games.

Langerhans, however, has NEVER proven himself. He might be one of the worst hitters I’ve ever seen in the majors. His swings are so defensive…actually, offensive for a major leaguer. Nothing screams “4th outfielder” more than Langerhans’ set of tools.

And not sure who complained about the platoon system in theory but it works when you have the right situations in place. It’s a great way to break a youngster into the majors and also to take advantage of players’ strengths.

A lot of success stories with platoons but I never saw it work better than the ‘83 Orioles. Maybe half of the positions were platoons.

By KC

April 14, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

I vote we demote or trade Ryan Langerhans, give his job to Kelly Johnson (to play alongside Diaz in left). Then send Pete Orr to AAA, and let Escobar and Prado share time at 2B… OR, trade for Felipe Lopez to play 2B and lead off.

By KC

April 14, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

We’ve had productive all-glove-no-lumber players (like Langerhans) on some of these Atlanta teams over the years, but they’ve always been used as a defensive replacement, and they did not eat up over half the playing time of a .300-plus hitter.

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

At some point, the Braves are going to have to realize that Matt Diaz is similar to Kevin Millar, with a better batting average, not as good of an eye, and less power. Nevertheless, their OBP, SLG, and OPS numbers in the majors and minors are similar.

Millar, majors: .287, .366, .472, .838

Millar, minors: .306, .390, .507, .897

Diaz, majors: .307, .349, .456, .805

Diaz, minors: .315, .362, .491, .853

Their career trajectories are similar in that they spent far too long in the minors than they should have because they did not look the part of a big time prospect.

As for the people who point out that he got cut by the Royals and the Devil Rays, since when exactly did the Royals and the Devil Rays become such great talent evaluators in anyone’s minds? Neither has done anything since George Brett hung up the spikes.

Start Diaz everyday. Langerhans is a good fourth or fifth outfielder to come off the bench as a defensive replacement in the later innings.

This will never happen though since it makes sense based upon actual performance. So, I am wasting my breath blathering on as always.

By Phiz50

April 14, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

How about a little patience! We are not even halfway through April. Redman will give us some good innings and KJ will come around. I have not been impressed with Wilson but it is still early. Diaz is making a strong bid to become a daily player but BC is smart to take things slowly. We are not as good a team (yet) as our record but lets not go crazy because of last night’s poor showing.

On a different issue, has anyone ever met an announcer who talks endlessly about everything but what is happening on the field. Please Chip Caray shut the ** up until you have something relevant to say about the game. GO Braves!

By poet jimmy smith

April 14, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

a deer appears and, i take aim, results are always, just the same

a pop-up though, is another matter, the ball may fall, but the deer will splatter

By your phreaking daddy

April 14, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

i’m first again… yeee hawwwww

By david duke

April 14, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

we should just trade redman for albert pujols…

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

They’re trying to portray this Francoeur as another Roberto Clemente out there in right field—-when in reality, he looks more like my ol’ granpappy, after he caught the bullhead clap, but at least my ol’ granpappy could catch something!…

And all those fat-A$sed relief pitchers?…most of ‘em are too outta breath by the time they get from the bullpen to the mound to throw a damn pitch with any authority…and fat-A$sed Andruw Jones was overheard saying that some of those fat-A$sed pitchers were so fat-A$sed, that he couldn’t see around their fat-A$ses in order to see where the catcher was setting up, thus he wasn’t able to properly position his own fat-A$s as the ball was being pitched!…next thing you know, they will be trying to get permission to haul their fat-A$ses from the bullpen to the mound in a damn golfcart, or on the back of a Mule!…maybe this is new defensive ploy by the Braves, pitchers so damn fat that the hitters on the opposing team could never hope to hit a damn ball past any of their fat A$ses!…

Now the serious part, the Braves seem to have little, or no physical conditioning program—no wonder they’re always getting hurt, pulling this, straining that…Hell!…maybe ol’ Ted could donate some of Janes Fonda’s old workout videos for those fat A$ses to use…then ban their fat A$ses from Chuck E. Cheese’s joint!…you gotta start somewhere…

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Do any of you remember a player from the 70s & 80s called Bake McBride? I say we start calling Macay McBride Bakery McBride because he will not lay off the pastries. When he sheds some of his tonnage and starts throwing strikes again, then he may once again assume the Macay name his momma gave him. Until then, he shall be called Bakery McBride.

I can hear Skip announcing it now, here’s the three-one from Bakery McBride, Oh, what do you know? There’s goes another batter walking 90 feet. Now, maybe if Bakery McBride would only walk at least 90 feet or so before or after games, he would not be so overweight and could actually throw a strike. Until he does that, I am afraid, he’s going to continue to walk the yard. Ope, here comes Bobby walking out the mound to take the ball from Bakery McBride. Will Bakery McBride be able to make the walk from the mound to the dugout after Bobby yanks him? The intrigue. Ope, he makes it, proving that he can exercise at least as much as an 88 year old woman. Unfortunately, he’s huffing and puffing and wheezing in the dugout now. His face is flushed and beet red. Now, the call to the bullpen. This call to the bullpen has been brought to you by Krispy Kreme and Hostess Cupcakes because when you think of relief in Atlanta, you think first of Krispy Kreme and Hostess. Ope, speaking of big boys, here comes Paronto. Will he be out of breath before he makes it to the mound? Let’s take bets. Boom-bop-ba-boom, bop-ba-boom, Paronto lumbers in to the mound. Oh, he tears a groin before he reaches the mound, his body unable to withstand the extra 57 pounds of flab on him. Word is that Stay-Puft the Marshmallow Man from the Ghostbusters movie is ready to pitch if we need him. We also could call up the Pillsbury Doughboy from Richmond if need be. Can’t promise that their performance will be any less erratic and ineffective because they are so overweight as well. There would have been no need for Bakery McBride and Pastry Paronto to make an appearance if Mark Well Fedman had pitched a little better than his girth would allow him as well.

By MEB

April 14, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Braveheart… so what is a Devil Dog? Am I missing out on something that is really good?

Phiz50… I’m with you on the patience thing except when it comes to Redman. I’ve been playing and watching baseball a long time and his stuff just doesn’t look good. We’ve got talent in our system and I say lets give them a chance in the show.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 14, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

bobby surrounds bobby’s self with old players for presence. then, that presence loses luster because of declining baseball skills. why were these players available to the braves? lost something - maybe a lot of something. it is proving to be true early. it may take time for the youngsters to hit and field but it should take no time for the presence to be felt (whoa!). now, young players who had a great spring and did not make this team must wonder what it will take to get to the bigs - a trade maybe? tony pena, jr’s bat has cooled in kc, still tpj has a better batting average than most of the braves’ infielders. and to sja, toe-head wasn’t what they were calling chipper when he dropped that pop-up … and now, canned ham … there are some great canned ham deals on e-bay - should a journalist trust a canned ham purchased on e-bay? and now, toes … how is the umpire who was struck on the toe by a john smoltz pitch on thursday? did that umpire have toe swelling or toe distress and who on the braves staff could address a real toe matter? this team needs a toe-man (a specialist) to assist with crucial matters of the toe. toes are not to be trifled with.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 14, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

if the face of the franchise conditions that face with cheeseburgers and shakes, then it is difficult to ask the other players to take conditioning seriously. and calisthenics and such would interfere with golf. and why is there no stretching going on before the games? what happened to the limbering up of toes before the contest? and who buys the doughnuts that are consumed in the bullpen? and if the only pants available to relievers are size 2xl how could a small reliever keep a small reliever’s pants up? these are all fundamental issues that must be addressed. until these issues are addressed there will be more fat-player injuries.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

…and Chipper—Take one for the team…Retire!…Go a huntin’, and don’t come back…the Braves desperately need a third baseman, have so for a few years now, and they could really use the cash that’s being wasted on you, son!…you’re just taking up space now…think it over…move on, so the Braves can get a real third sacker in there…

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

MEB: Devil Dogs:

http://www.famousfoods.com/drdedoca2pa.html

Devil Dogs were one of Drake’s bastardized imitations of Hostess sweets. Tasted good when I was a kid but I wish Bakery McBride would lay off them already.

If they call up a pitcher named Entenmann, you know we are in some serious trouble.

Any truth to the rumor that Bakery McBride married a woman named Stella Doro and that Wickman is married to a woman formerly known as Mrs. Fields?

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Good point, JJS.

I think Chipper’s pick up line to the Hooter’s girl was, “Uh, I’d like some fries what that shake.”

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

Esteemed journalist jimmy smith—-I should like to enquire as to your knowledge of, or familiarity with, a condition commonly known as “camel toe”??…

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

…cause from what I’ve heard—“camel toe” has been one of “Hoss’s” biggest problems over the years…

By fastasballs

April 14, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

OMG Jackass, I just spewed my coke all over the computer after reading the “camel toe” comment.

Never thought I would see that in a Braves blog.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, interesting and solid comparison between Diaz and Millar, from standpoint of being overlooked for years in the minors despite big offense. Neither had the classic “tools” so many baseball GMs and scouts are beholden to, but Millar thrived when finally given a chance with the blown-up Marlins (first time they were stripped and rebuilt with cheap players).

Diaz doesn’t have his power or clubhouse presence (very few have Millar’s clubhouse presence and leadership), but Diaz can hit for a higher average and plays better defense. Hell, Diaz made a better play in his first-ever inning at first base last night than Millar has ever made in his career at 1B (exaggerating, but only slightly).

Love Millar. Great guy to have on your team, and many Boston players will tell you how integral he was to their World Series championship team. A classic example of why folks shouldn’t be sworn to “tools” when evaluating players….

KC, Kelly Johnson is a far better defensive player at 2B than he was in LF, and Bobby has raved about his 2B defense at every opportunity. Moving him is not on the radar at this point, not even being discussed for this season.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Did most of you realize tht your nuts? Let’s dump everyone who got off to a slow start, then in three years you can b!tch that they are great players for another team. Better yet, let’s replace them with more players with zero ML playing time and THEN make them play positions they’ve never played before. Or maybe we should just call up the entire AA team, also with zero ML experience and screw up their development for two or three more years. The we can b!tch some more about how they are not performing up to KC’s overly optimistic pre season evaluations. Better yet, let’s get Ka’aihue, who has never played above A ball and make him our first baseman instead of Thorman. Like I said-y’all have some real serious issues. Oh yeah-did anyone mention we’re in first place? However, Redman DOES need to go. Braveheart-I’ll bet you anything you’ve never had weight problems. If you had, youd realize you didn’t know your a$$ from a hole in the ground.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Robert writes: “I am simply amazed however, at how quickly every blogger and their kid brother jump all over Redman�s case, while on the other hand, Cox, who has been stinking it up far worse than Redman for far longer than Redman, is STILL exonerated ahead of time and for all time.”

Robert, you’re no more amazed by that matter than we are with your continued myopic view of the great sport and the team, your ability to block out all pertinent issues regarding the Braves’ strengths and weaknesses to focus on the absolute ONE THING that isn’t going to change for at least this season and next.

I’d say it’s tired and redundant, but that’d be redundant of me, as well. I’ll just say your posts on this subject have become irrelevent by their repetetiveness and lack of innovation. Few seem to even respond to them at this point, and I do occasionally only because you fascinate me with your obsessiveness.

By AK

April 14, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

They gonna play this game tonight???

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Oh hell!…I feel a Don Imus moment coming on!…WHOO-AH!!!…

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

After my last post, I scrolled all the way up to SJA’s post regarding the same manner. “Robot.” Now that’s solid. I’ll go with that.

By JohnGTfan

April 14, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

DoB: Is anyone really surprised by any of this? Langerhans is awful, always has been, always will be. At best, he’s a very good MINOR league player. As far as 1st base…might as well put Thorman out there vs right and lefties. Because Wilson is simply an out every at bat. At least give this kid Thorman the knowledge you have confidence in him and let him learn on the fly. Even if he bats 7th or 8th, so be it. I like Diaz in left every night. I know he is not the greatest defensive left fielder…but I like his offense much better than any other option.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Lew—TheJackAss is quite familiar with the weight problem—that’s why I don’t mind poking fun at fat A$ses…

fastasballs—I certainly hope that the coke you spewed on the ol’ pc was of the cola type…

By AK

April 14, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

90 percent precipatation…..

No way this game gets played.

By AK

April 14, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Redman should be sent down when Cormier is ready, although I will reserve my judgement until Davies start tonight.

By JohnGTfan

April 14, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

good thing the game is getting rained out tonight…could use the break after the last 2 nights. Although, I think Cox should have everyone take batting practice in rain

By Lew

April 14, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

SJA-If you’re familiar, as I am also, then you know that Twinkies and Devil Dogs have damn little to do with weight related issues. If anything, I’d be checking to make sure they weren’t on the road to diabetes or had other problems causing them to retain weight. I gained 100 pounds AFTER I got on the correct medical protocol for my diabetes. To look at me, you’d never know that on most days I eat 1000 calories or less and don’t go anywhere near a flippin Dolly Madison pastry. That’s the way it is, though. I guarantee you that Paronto is in as good shape as anyone on this blog. He was that weight last year and played well without injury-McBride, too. All of a sudden, in their 20’s, weight is causing all of their problems, right? That’s a load of BS. If Braveheart would have maybe read the Braves website, he’d know that McBride’s problem has already been identified by McDowell as involving throwing across his body too much-a mechanical problem-nothing whatsoever to do with being overweight-if, in fact, he is.

By DNice

April 14, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

I guess all the KJ fans forget that MLB players get paid to hit the ball not look at it. Look at his stats from 2 years ago and he still did nothit ten either. Prado hit when he came up and played a good 2b. What does he have to do to prove that he should be the 2b. I know all of you think KJ is the answer but sometimes production has to be realized. Frenchy deservd the benefit of doubt last year since he actually hit his rookie year but KJ did not hit it you recall. If looking at pitches was the determining factor to be in the leagues then shoot I can do that and I had rotator cuff surgery and about to have it again. Langy is lost maybe we should call him Magellan. I was not high on Diaz but maybe I should be because all he has done is produce at the plate. Escobar needs to be on the team so that means that Prado and KJ can battle it out at 2b and Diaz and Thorman can work it out with Diaz getting a longer look. From there we can play Escobar at LF and bat leadoff and Prado can bat after McCann or Frenchy.

Dont be madd about my comments about KJ but look at the facts

Kelly Johnson 2B
Go to Player Bio >>
CAREER STATS | SPLITS | GAME BY GAME LOG | HITTING CHART | POSTSEASON & ALL-STAR

Hitting Stats: Next Stats >>

SEASON TEAM G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI TB BB SO SB CS OBP SLG AVG 2005 Atlanta Braves 87 290 46 70 12 3 9 40 115 40 75 2 1 .334 .397 .241 2007 Atlanta Braves 9 36 7 6 2 0 2 5 14 7 4 1 0 .302 .389 .167

Career Totals 96 326 53 76 14 3 11 45 129 47 79 3 1 .331 .396 .233

.233 Career average and 3 SB’s from the leadoff guy. Now is that what we want. Wow in that case Otix Nixon and Albert hall should still be on the team. Anyone seen Oddibe, Blauser, or Andres Thomas lately?

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

So, when are Ben & Jerry getting called up from Richmond?

Bobby then will have to tell us that not only do they not fit in a cab together, they no longer fit in the bullpen anymore together.

By Tyler Tiger

April 14, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

I agree with you on all accounts…The one thing that bothered me was Chipper Jones’ comments after Friday nights blasting from the Marlins (11-4)…To me Chipper had given up in the first inning…He was saying in so many words, he did not feel they could come back from a (5-0) deficit because D. Willis was pitching…I have seen “GOOD” ball clubs eat that up with nine innings to play with…I had more respect for Chipper than that…

By Metropolitan Man

April 14, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Hello brave bloggers, is manufacturing runs costing you games yet??? I see you guys are letting Langerhans, Thorman, and WIlson have it. These are the same guys that are suppose to keep the winning braves tradition alive, what happended to that support that was given in spring training? You guys are getting tougher and tougher on your players, you guys use to love everyone. Anyway we can count out the philthies for now, but how good is that markins team? The fish look like that team that always gives teams trouble just to keep them honest. Should the NL east replace Phily with the fish as a threat???? Oh, thanks for signing Redman, the rotations looked more balanced now. You guys need to make him your S. Traschel, average 6 runs a game so he can thinks he is helping.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Lew, agree on your post about folks jumping to conclusions after 1/16th of the sked. As I said in my original post, way too early to judge Thorman and KJ.

Some lay out their plans here as though the Braves brass is going to look at it and go, “He’s got a point, call Prado.” I mean, they went from hatching the KJ-to-2B idea in September, to informing him and having him prepare for his winter crash course with Hubbard, who spent much of his winter hours _ no extra pay _ working morning after morning with KJ at Turner Field, to having KJ work there all spring training and getting rave reviews from Bobby and Hubbard and teammates for his transition, to sending down Prado after an outstanding spring because they clearly wanted KJ in the job.

So after all that, 10 games into the season they’re going to say, “You know what, screw the hundreds of hours spent planning, talking and executing this move of Kelly to second base,” let’s scrap it and call up Prado.

Sure, that’s going to happen. And if Prado struggles for 10 games, then they’ll go back to the original plan. Yeah, that’s the way organizations make decisions.

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

So, who is the Good Humor man out in the pen?

To save them from getting winded coming in from the pen, will a Mister Softee truck be dispatched to provide transport from here on out?

By Jeff R

April 14, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

El Paso is a great song…

Why all the surprise about Redman. He was designated batting practice pitcher for opposing teams in stints with Pittsburgh and KC. Sure, everyone wishes he’d regain the form he had in Florida, but, chances are, that was his career year.

Braves don’t have the luxury of spotting the opposition 5 plus runs. NL East is going to be far too competitive to tolerate that.

By AK

April 14, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

I don’t worry about KJ. I have seen enough of Ryan Langerhans though. This offseason, we will need to address Left Field and Center field. Brandon Jones is ripping it up in the minors, maybe he can take hold of left field later this season if he keeps progressing. Thoughts?

By snowball's chance

April 14, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

ROBOT, That’s perfect.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Just listened to Grace Potter CD for second time, Lew. Good stuff. She’s equal parts B. Raitt and Joan Osborne, to me. And that ain’t a bad thing….

I’ve recommended before this Tom Russell album “Love and Fear” to all of you lovers of Americana and great songwriting, but just want to reiterate _ you won’t hear it on the radio, won’t see the 60-year-old brilliant Russell on Letterman, etc, but if you just love great tunesmiths and real music, get it _ then you’ll probably want more of his stuff.

He wrote the single-best baseball-related song I’ve ever hear, “The Kid from Spavinaw” about Mickey Mantle (he’s from Spavinaw, Okla.). Just a beautiful, wrenching song about his life, the drinking, the knees, his relationship with his dad, etc. That’s on his album “Modern Art,” which isn’t as great an album as a whole as many others he’s done, but that song is worth the price, especially for baseball fans who also happen to love great rootsy music.

But this “Love and Fear” CD from a year ago _ just incredible, gets better every time I hear it. Songs like “The Pugilist at 59,” “Beautiful Trouble” and “The Sound of One Heart Breaking”… music doesn’t get much better than this.

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

Hits are going to start falling for KJ. He has only struck out four times, he has seven walks, hit 2 homers, scored 7 runs, has 5 RBIs in the leadoff spot. He is on pace for 112 walks, 32 homers, 112 runs scored, 80 RBIs, 64 strikeouts. Small sample size whether you want to be optimistic or pessimistic about him. He is playing well defensively. The average major leaguer hits about .320 when he does not strike out. If he continues not striking out too much, keeps getting walks, then hits are going to start to fall for him. Right now, he is on a pace to have a combined 192 runs + rbis over 162 despite how he is not hitting for a good average. Last year, Giles had 147 in 141 games after having 167 in 152 the year before. Furcal in his last year here had 158 in 154 games and last year with the Dodgers has 176 in 159.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

We might not get this game in tonight, but I’ll bet you the Braves keep us all our there for a lot of hours _ long enough to sell plenty of drinks and hot dogs at the concession stands before they call it off.

Wait, who was that cynic who just hijacked my laptop and wrote that sentence. Not me…

(maybe by me writing that, they’ll feel guilty and bang the game as soon as it’s obvious we’re not going to get it in … but i doubt it)

By Jeff R

April 14, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Thorman, Johnson, Langerhans…it’s only mid April. Hitting usually improves with warm weather. Having said that, Thorman and Langerhans are middling hitters. No one expects Thorman to hit the way LaRoche did, or do they? Kelly Johnson…more interested in his fielding, at this point, and he’s been credible. Here, again, say what you will about Giles, until he proves otherwise, no one thought KJ was going play the position and hit like Giles?

These three guys need to do workman-like jobs. They probably will. I’d be a lot more worried if the pitching staff was going south. Redman and McBride are holes that can be patched.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Lew—TheJackAss says many things just to cause controversy, or spark discussion…I would doubt that any of those big boys even notice, as far as how they feel, if they’re carrying too much weight or not…

Too many people are too quick to judge others…there are many other reasons for being overweight other than just from eating too much of the wrong things…diabetes, genetics, thyroid disease, etc…whoever thinks fat is only caused by donuts or twinkies probably thinks the Mets don’t suck either…and diabetes is not to be trifled with…even some of the drugs used to treat it with will cause weight gain…

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Funny thing, these guys ya’ll keep refering too are ripping it up against AA ans AAA pitchers….

By The SouthernFatass

April 14, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Yeah that’s it. Genetics and thyroid. Damn, Jackass thanks for solving my problem. Now where the hell did Engleberger hide the toilet paper?…

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Lew, buddy, relax, got a tad bit carried away with the humor of the situation. As SJA conceded, things like you are talking about are very serious and real and can cause weight gain. But that is the exception more than the norm. My rotundness however can only be attributed to pure laziness and poor diet on my part. But these guys are athletes Lew. Being overweight and out of shape clearly causes injuries that would not have otherwise happened and causes one to be inconsistent in their mechanical approach to pitching and to be unable to bounce back day to day. Your body and your muscles do not react consistently and do not have the desired durability when you are overweight. I have no idea how you could even argue otherwise.

Guys like Maddux, Gwynn, Druw, David Wells are athletic freaks of nature who could get away with being overweight or not in the best physical shape. Guys like Bakery McBride and Pastry Paronto on the other hand are not on their level and are struggling to even hang at this level. They should be doing everything they can to hang on, especially in this roided up age where they all are looking to be in the peak physical form in order to compete with one another. Paronto and McBride should be looking more towards the models set by Smoltz, Glavine, Clemens, Randy Johnson, Nolan Ryan with how to excel and be at the top of your game year in and year out, game in and game out, inning in and inning out, and pitch in and pitch out by working out and keeping yourself in tip top shape. All of their careers would have ended 5 to 10 years earlier than they should have if they were lazy like McBride and Paronto.

By Metropolitan Man

April 14, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Crazy game. Chavez lead off with a triple….Beltran strikes out, Delgado bounces to the pitcher, and thenWright grounded out to the pitcher. This is the stuff that drives fans and managers crazy. 2-1 nats, top of the 4th if if anyone wants to know.

By krath

April 14, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

I think you have to give KJ and Thorman some times. Johnson missed a year of ball for all practical purposes and now he’s having to try and hit big league pitching all over again. I feel like he’s putting some good swings on the ball and hopefully his timing will come around. I do know this…. I would rather have KJ being patient and drawing some walks from the leadoff spot rather than see mini-Giles with that uppercut swing trying to hit it 500 ft! And one more thing….. I don’t exactly see a Jose Reyes waiting in the wings to lead off for the Braves.

Thorman…..I don’t know if the guy is going to be a big league hitter or not, but he deserves some patience. I don’t like his swing or approach. But he needs a few weeks to see if he will hit or not.

Langerhans….. what a mystery. A couple of years ago he actually had some big hits and games when he came up to start the season. But that was a couple of years ago. He had a full year last year to prove himself. He proved he is a great defensive player. He also proved that, at least for now, that he can’t hit big league pitching.

The conclusions I am making are based on the above criteria. Give KJ and Thorman some time because they haven’t yet had a legit opportunity to do the job.

Langy had a shot last year and just isn’t producing again this year. Another thing is that Langy is not even putting the ball in play in half his at bats!

There is one other factor…. Wilson doesn’t seem like a viable option at first base and Prado is a maybe so-maybe not solution for 2nd. Matt Diaz is here and now and deserves to play every day. He hit 300 last year and is doing so again this season. That seems to be an absolute no brainer to me.

The fact is the Braves ain’t gonna go out and get some allstar to play first-second or left field. All our solutions are coming from in house. KJ and Thorman remain unknowns. In house solutions are iffy at best if these guys don’t produce. Diaz is a good in house solution for left and hes’ good NOW!

Can’t afford to keep giving up outs in Langy’s spot in the order.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Oh, I did omit one very important causative factor—it’s called ‘perceived ignorance’, as is the case of The SouthernFata$$…symptoms being that his mouth writes a check, but there’s insufficient funds in his brain to cash it…

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Yep, yada yada yada…. Have pulled a groin before. Has nothing to do with weight. Was cursed with short hamstrings, never able to get them loose. Why I was doomed to be a catcher.

Gnats up 3-1 over Mutts in 4th

By The SouthernFatass

April 14, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

All these times that the Jackass has slammed people, you KNEW there had to be a weakness…well, here it is folks! He’s a fat, lazy, slovenly sort with no personal accountability for his condition. Go ahead and blame everything and everybody but yourself sweathog! Makes sense that you’re blogging as often as you are…doesn’t take effort to sit yor fat arse in a chair and type… To find the REAL reason you have to shop at the fat man store look in the mirror…that is, if you can stomach the view…pun intended!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

In my post that caused SouthernFatnA$s to drop his soap, I was mainly referring to some of the things that cause overweight people in general…

As far as those fat slobs go on the Braves pitching staff…it’s more than likely laziness causing their weight problems, if it even is a problem…just ask Tim Hudson about his non-conditioning the last 2 seasons…and he’s a skinny baztard…Braves players never have been known as being required to show up in good physical shape, and to be ready to play!…that’s one of the reasons why so many players like playing for Bobby Cox…so there Robot, the door is open, do your thing now…

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Gnats 4-1 over Mutts in 6th as Church goes yard

By Yars

April 14, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

tylertiger………in defense of Chipper, I wouldn’t say he pretty much gave up after the 1st ining against Dontrelle. Chipper had a good game, but when your team is up against a pitcher like Dontrelle, & they score 5 runs in the 1st inning, you have to be realistic. Heck, after the 1st inning last night, even I didn’t think the Braves were going to come back. I have no faith in Redman.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-Yeah, it’s a sore spot with me for sure. It’s something I’ve dealt with my entire life and many times, what you eat or don’t eat makes little difference. Just be glad you didn’t mention the word obese. I might have sought you out for physical harm. I and most other people of substance would much rather be told we’re fat than the new term “morbidly obese”. If only they realized how little I eat and how much I exercise, just to remain in a holding pattern. As far as Wells, et al being physical freaks-Dude everyone in MLB is a physical freak or they wouldn’t be there. Paronto may not beat me in a 100 yard dash (likely he could-I’m 56 years old), but he can damn well throw a ball where the bottom drops out. The guy pulled a groin muscle-It happens-even to people with no body fat. However, Dude, I’ll forgive you, but you really need to check out Lillian Axe. DOB- I’m glad you’re enjoying Grace Potter. I was bound to find something you’d get into sooner or later. Wouldn’t you like to hear her fronting Govt. Mule, though? Or doing a duet with Greg Allman? Her band is decent, but she’s definitely the star and they know it.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Tell you what Fatass/RonRoberts/caveman/whoever/whatever the hell you are—-I’ll be standing there in Monument Grove at Turner Field tonight if you want to point out some of my ‘weaknesses’ face to face tough guy…I’m not hard to find either, just look up you piece of worthless catchit!…I’ll show who how I can slam your ignorant in real time…pigchit!

By Metropolitan Man

April 14, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Dam you braves. You let the Nats win 1 game and now their confidence is off the charts. They are playing like they dont want to be the worse in the division. Now if any team finishes behind the nats, that team deserves to move to Montreal!!!

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Snelling hits 2 run dinger, Henandezs tossed for throwing next pitch at pitcher. Gnats up 6-1 top of 6th.

By The SouthernFatass

April 14, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Sure I’ll just look for 4 inches of asscrack hanging out of 54 inch jeans…

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

In honor of Jackie Robinson Day tomorrow, I want to nominate MetroMan to receive the Jackie Robinson award for this blog for showing class, character, fortitude, and grace under fire on this blog.

His opinion is never a popular one but he never stoops down to the gutter like myself and many others on here.

Jackie stood for alot of things, not just the immeasurable racial issue.

I think MetroMan has demonstrated on here alot of the things that made Jackie a remarkable man.

Hopefully, if we start that kind of award on here, that will give me and many others something to strive for in our behavior next year.

Oh, who am I kidding. I am hopeless in trying to show class on here.

I am too erratic in my opinions on here - maybe because I am married to a tempting witch called Dolly Madison who keeps stuffing my fat face.

By Cam

April 14, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Langerhans doesn’t look confident right now. And Redmon, oh that dude has got to go. What the heck, Bobby? In two starts the guys ERA is off the charts, and he ain’t getting anything by major leaguers. He’s got a sinker, but he can’t throw it every pitch. Back to the new guys, and Johnson. He looks good. He plays a sound defense, and he looks good at the plate. He has been walking a lot, and he draws a lot of full counts. The guy is doing his job. And Thorman. We don’t see enough of that guy. I saw drop Kelly and put Thornton in against a few lefties. It might motivate Kelly and give Thor more looks against lefties. The guy looks and runs like a major leaguer. Kelly looks a bit tired. Back to that dude pitching in our rotation, who has no right to be doing so, he has to go. What is Bobby thinking? He gets caught up on the old-timers too often. Redmon sucks. Lets get him out of the rotation and give some of these other guys a shot. Bobby’s got his work cut out for him this year.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 14, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

You do that—crawl out from behind that computer, get out of your pajamas, get your mommy or your daddy to bring you down to the ballpark, and they won’t need to wait on your ignorant a$s because you’ll be getting another form of transportation when you leave there…

and I’ll know it’s you…round mouth, flat knees, brown nose, pimples, standing about 5’ 3”, wearing a pretty sundress, diaper full of chit, just like you…you cowardly piece of worthless goat dung…

Show up!…or Shut up!!…

By Carroll

April 14, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I’d love to know what happened to Chipper along the way. His attitude just plain sucks….he has turned into a loser. People used to clammer for him to step up and assume the leadership role, but I’m beginning to think he just needs to keep that cheeseburger chute closed fro hence forth.

By Cam

April 14, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Southernman, who are you talking to?

By The SouthernFatass

April 14, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

The OSD (Obese Southern Donkey) wants to fight…somebody must have struck a nerve..

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

boring. would all those who agree with me that the absurd, sophomoric, tete-a-tete is completely inane, pointless and booor-ing please raise your hands?

Carroll, are you serious about Chipper? Wow, you really don’t listen to the other players and to the people inside the clubhouse when it comes to forming your opinions, do you? You read a quote, read into it what you will, and figure you’ve got the answers yourself, huh? OK, bully for you.

But don’t ask anyone who’s actually on the team or around the team about Chipper, because the answer you get won’t be the one you want, regarding whether he’s a winner or a leader.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Oh, and TO ALL: Don’t be surprised if we have news very soon that McBride has been sent down.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Gnats win 6-2 over Mutts. No joy in Mudville tonight….

By The SouthernFatass

April 14, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Aw, c’mon DOB…my snide comments are for Oddjob, Scalp ‘em, Ron Roberts, (I am none of these by the way) and everybody else this jerk has slammed for one thing or another. Reading earlier posts on this blog he apparently has an obsession with self-gratification. This is YOUR blog and this fact isn’t lost on me, so I assure you that the Fatass is now retired forever…

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

DOB is exactly right…TheJackAss should not allow himself to be drawn to the lower depths of humanity by participating in these intellectually deficient pi$$ing contests—from now on, SJA will desregard all comments directed in his direction, good or bad, while continuing to post his own thoughts and opinions, and let the chips shall fall where they may…this isn’t an instant messaging service…

…and for those of you who think you might want TheSouthernJackAss in person, just let me know…

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

Magic Number now stands at 152

By Lew

April 14, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Oh no-Braveheart is using the “Twinkie Defense”. “Honest, I’m really a good person. Dolly Madison made me do it.” Maybe that’s what Imus should have done-blame it on the snack food- (and no Braveheart, I don’t equate you with Imus. I doubt he has the good sense to listen to Thin Lizzy).

By Rabbit

April 14, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I have to admit, it shocked me to see Diaz over at first late in last night game but maybe they are on to something. In this division, there is no room for” IT’S STILL EARLY…”.That is why the baseball God’s gave us Spring Training. I’m really not sure that I’m fond of the “Platoon” method used by so many teamS in the era. I might be more exceptable of the “Substitute” method. Rabbit-

By AK

April 14, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

DOB- What do you expect from Mark Redman from here on out? I think he should get one more start before Lance Cormier comes back…

I can’t believe I’m even talking about Lance Cormier and Mark Redman as our 4th and 5th starters this season…..

By A.J.

April 14, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

DOB, Any chance they get it in tonight?

Seems no doubt that there will be at least a few pretty substantial rain delays. But might they get it in?

Maybe tune in tonight around midnight for the last six innings.

In a related note, do you get overtime for long rain delay games?

In another related note, do you think I could get in tonight if there’s a delay and I show up around 12? That sounds like a good night to me.

By Robert

April 14, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

” to focus on the absolute ONE THING that isn’t going to change for at least this season and next.”

That really says it all. Nothing is sacred except the only real problem.

In ‘09, the Braves might finally be able to accomplish something (despite themselves)

By Braveheart

April 14, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Lew - don’t ever underestimate the bewitching ways of Dolly Madison - she is one beguiling temptress.

Have looked for the Lillian Axe stuff you rec’d. At first, wasn’t sure if you were insulting me by calling me a psycho or schizo. Wasn’t quite sure. Can’t download it off ITunes, which I have become a lazy slave to. Can’t get any Beatles stuff there either - I think it has something to do with a copyright infringement issue they have with Apple over the use of the Green Apple. Will look for the Lillian Axe stuff on the internet or at a store sometime in the next week. Did notice your reference to Gov’t Mule though - I like that band.

In Braves related news, Bobby and John have officially changed their names to Ben & Jerry today in honor of their bullpen.

When they send McBride down today, Ben & Jerry plan on calling up a pitcher with a cult following called Cherry Garcia.

By Steve from OH

April 14, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

I can agree with you all about Diaz-he should definitely be playing over Langy….However, we all need to give Thor and Kelly about another month to prove themselves. KJ has good plate discipline and hits the ball hard every time I see him hit. And I think Thorman can be good too if Bobby gives him a chance to play everyday.

By Steve from OH

April 14, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Oh, and while McBride may be struggling now, if(or when, I should say) he works out his control problems in the minors, look for him to be very effective this summer.

By TennesseePaul

April 14, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the updates on McBride.
Lew: Agreed. Kelly Johnson is hitting the ball hard these past few times I’ve watched him. And despite the low batting average hit OBP is almost 150 points higher. If a few more of those hard hits dropped in everything would look much better and no one would complain. I think Thorman will come around soon and I don’t believe Langerhans is going anywhere. Redman is the only guy I want to see gone. How long did we keep Mondesi on the roster?

By KC

April 14, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

Boy… it’s very nice to see the Mets starters coming back to earth (much to Dayn Perry’s shagrin). El Duque didn’t look good at all today, and both Maine and Perez were rocked in their previous starts. That’s good news for Braves fans. Now if we can win tonight and get Mark Redman deported, it’ll be a perfect day!

By KC

April 14, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

TennPaul: Right there with you. I think KJ is going to prove himself a keeper. And I certainly haven’t given up on our 1B platoon.

But Langerhanz needs to finally be relagated to the role he belongs in… defensive replacement/ocassional fill-in starter, and Redman needs to go bye-bye ASAP.

By 74 Dawg

April 14, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

Has any one besides me noticed that the braves had to start their # 4 against the Mets # 2 because of the meaningless day off in the middle of the Phillies series? and we are still paying for that as of Thu. nite. or is that just my anti-New Yawk paranoia acting up again?

By David O'Brien

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

McBride sent down, Colyer called up to replace him. Moylan and Colyer were on same flight this morning, both got here in plenty of time and are available, should we get this in.

McBride was surprised, he said, to come in and learn he’d been sent down. But he also conceded it wasn’t shocking, given how he pitched. He just didn’t think that four bad outings would be enough to get him sent down (yes, but those were four alarming outings _ 11 walks in 2-2/3 innings….

AJ, you’ve been saying definitely all day that they weren’t going to get this game in, haven’t you?

The groundskeeper (he monitors the radar constantly) and Braves officials are saying they think they can start at 8-8:30. I think they’re being overly optimistic, but we’ll see. it’s only now starting to rain here. It’s gonna get bad soon, supposedly.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

oh, and you were kidding about me getting extra pay for rain delays, right? no union for reporters in this state, my friend. if i got paid overtime for every hour over 40 (or for every hour over 50, for that matter), I’d be doing quite well, thank you very much.

By Payn Derry

April 14, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

KC, you better stop talking about me! I’m going to slip the Braves down another three whole positions in my power poll and you will be the cause of the Braves never having a shot at the BCS championship game this year as a result of your continuous bad mouthing of my articles. Watch yourself. Dayn Perry knows all and sees all. You better recognize KC.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Braveheart-E mail me at lewhartman@comcast.net we’ll try to remedy the situation. I was not joking. These Dudes rock well.

By KC

April 14, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry Dayn. Please forgive me.

By Payn Derry

April 14, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Dayn Perry is too much of jerk to accept an apology. Dayn is not a merciful God.

By A.J.

April 14, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

Oh no, David. I believe in Mangum. If he tries hard enough he can stop the rain with his mind.

I know how much they fight to get these games in. I think they could get it in, but it will take some time if the Weather Channel is at all correct.

I actually don’t mind the games with the long delays when I’m there (I won’t be tonight). Just means a longer time til I have to leave the ballpark. Plus so many of those games seem to be close. I like getting the chance to be one of those 500 fans that are still there at 2 AM to see the walk off homer.

DANG, Rangers 2-Thrashers 1. 4 minutes left. Goal by Shannahan.

By chipdip

April 14, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

thorman is a douchbag…..frank zappa rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Accuweather Forecast

April 14, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

Have no fear. As wet as the rain will make your blankets tonight at the Ted, the Robot will continue to be the wettest blanket on the blog.

By Robert

April 14, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

“What is Bobby thinking? “

He is thinking he is going to get that carrot that keeps dangling right in front of his face.

He is thinking it’s a shame McBridey got sent down, because he had been looking real good and had thrown only one bad pitch.

He is thinking he would like a new batch of straw in his stable.

Donkeys dont THINK. Get it thru! There is no thought process involved in his decision making.

By bruce

April 14, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Dave,

I believe I recall that Wilson’s shoulder problem was a surprise, that they were planning for him to play some left, but the throws hurt his shoulder too much, I believe it was called arthritis somewhere. Have you heard him comment on whether the shoulder also affects his swing either mentally or physically? Thanks, Bruce

By Ralph

April 14, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

Its amazing how the last 2 years the Braves are either one or two player from becoming an unbeatable team, and knowing this, and what do they do send the best players to the minors and keep the dead weight who are hurt the team. But like a jack-a* thats a knock-headed mule the Braves organization refuses to get rid of the players that bring down the whole team or get them out of a rally because they are not cut out to be in playing in the mayor leagues, such as Langerhans , Wilson and Johnson. Thorman has the ability to become a very good player, play him a little as a time even against leftys. Thorman has got to stop reaching for balls outside of the strike zone and stop trying to copy Francoeur at he plate. The Braves should sit Francoeur down and tell him to stop hot dogging it. I believe the Braves organization enjoyed making excuses for losing. Here are Bobby’s and the organization favor saying, it’s either “wait and see”, “they’ll come around “, “I just don’t know what happen, they are played a good game” or after they get beat bad the reply is “they played good, they had a bad game” that last is brilliant.

By john

April 14, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

DOB- will you keep us appraised of the info if they think that they will get this one in? I have tickets, but would rather not wait through a rain delay. I’ll come around 8 or so if they think its gonna happen

By Robert

April 14, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

“your ability to block out all pertinent issues regarding the Braves’ strengths and weaknesses”

DOB - My point is that the other issues are in fact not pertitent. Not pertitent, because whether they are strong or stronger, whether they have three future HOFers on the roster or 23, whether any particualr player or group of players is going good or going sour, it doesnt matter. Bobby Cox’s philosophy will poison the team’s effort and guts, and his inane decision making will ruin the best laid plans of any other member/s of the organization

Until he is gone, it just doesnt frickin matter what the team tries, or what the team does

By Willy Wally

April 14, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto.

By Robert

April 14, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

“next thing you know, they will be trying to get permission to haul their fat-A$ses from the bullpen to the mound in a damn golfcart, or on the back of a Mule!…”

Well, the Braves could easily enough arrange for the latter

Can y’all imagine Wickey and company riding Bobby Cox from the bullpen to the mound? Talk about entertainment

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

OK, Robert, since it doesn’t matter to you until he’s gone, and since he’s NOT GOING TO BE GONE until at least after the 2008 season, then you’ve got nothing to contribute to the conversation. Nothing pertinent. So just read what we’re talking about, the actual moves being made, the long season ahead, etc, or join in with something besides Cox. Because that’s beating your head and our heads against a wall. Irrelevent. Not changing. Got it? You do understand that, right? You can grasp that he’s not leaving, right? That very, very few people agree with you and that you have no pull whatsoever, no say in the matter? OK, good.

By Brad in MT

April 14, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Amen DOB! Hopefully Robert will wake up and realize that nobody cares. DOB…have you heard anything regarding the sale? I thought that at one point I had heard that if nothing happened by the first of May the tax consequences wouldn’t exist anymore? Do you think its time that Diaz got the everday left field job?

By Lew

April 14, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

ChipDip-Frank’s dead, Dude, he ain’t ruling nothin’. Are you sure you don’t mean Dweezil or Moon Unit, his progeny?

By Soft Jeremy

April 14, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

I know this doesn’t involve the Braves, but it was good to hear Brave color men calling out Hermida for the pansy that he is. Forgot which announcer said “I’ve never heard of anyone being out for over a month and a half because he fouled a ball off of his kneecap. Andruw Jones plays with all kind of problems and this just seems strange”

Well, as a Marlins fan I can tell you the kids early career has been srange. Touted as the next big thing, misses most of last season because of minor ailments, when he did play he was a horrific fielder and his approach at the plate resembles that of a 150 pound utility infielder who is getting a rare start and tries to work every count because he knows he can’t put ball in play with authority.

Any way Wheeler High School can take this now certifiable bust out of Florida and install him as assistant baseball coach. The kid has the guts of kindergarten transfer facing first day at new school.

By .30-06

April 14, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

1st time blogger so don’t murder me yall….I know this has been discussed and beaten to death, but why not package salty with a couple of other minor leaguers or langerhans in a deal in hopes of acquiring someone like a baldelli….i feel like crawford would be great but how realistic is that? not very….and my own personal choice would be sizemore but, yeah the indians arent going to even dream of letting him go….we have depth with Mccann and like him or hate him pena, why not trade salty while his stock his high instead of taking a gamble on whether he will be even an adequate 1st baseman? Yes im conceding anrudw is gone and i hate to see longtime braves go, but barring some unseen futurure development I imagine boras is gunna escort him to the west coast

By HEE-HAW

April 14, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Robert is FUNNY.

HEE-HAW

By Lew

April 14, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

DOB-What’s this? We have no pull? They won’t listen to us? Oh, The Humanity. I guess that means that they won’t be moving Ka’aihue from first to starting pitcher and having him replace Redman. He was our last chance to salvage the season.

By ncscoots

April 14, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Interesting. When was the last time we saw the Braves make a personnel move this early because of performance? Certainly the perceived depth of relief at Richmond makes it easier to do than in previous years, but, still, seems a quicker hook to me.

Will the Braves make other moves more quickly this year, if they deem it necessary? Or is McBride more of an isolated instance?

‘Course, a couple of 2-for-4s from some struggling hitters would make a lot of that moot :-)

By gotigers72

April 14, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

Sorry to hear that about McBride, but they couldn’t keep him up here the way he was pitching. Thought he had his control problems worked out during the last half of last year. His stuff is so good, if he could just get it over the plate. Here’s hoping he goes down and gets straightened out and doesn’t fall in the Rick Ankiel/Mark Wohlers/Steve Blass syndrome of losing it and never getting it back.

By Soft Jeremy

April 14, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

I’ll trade you Hermida for Pete Orr and a toy tomahawk.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

30.06-Baldelli is hitting .231 with 1 HR and 3 RBI. Not only that, he has chronic hamstring problems. All we need is another player whose performance would lead to even more griping, moaning, wailing, groaning, wringing of hands and gnashing of teeth. Soft Jeremy-If we give up Orr, someone will come back in four or five years and complain that he had a good year for another team and curse the Braves for giving up on him.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

News from the minors…. Richmond won today 4-1. Prado continues to hit like a man wanting to play in the bigs. Stockman activated and assigned to AA Mississippi.

Lew… Hope you have your snowshoes ready….

By Carolina Lady

April 14, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

I was just thinking about the best advice that has ever been given: treat other people the same way you yourself want to be treated. Things would sure be a lot more pleasant, don’t you think? (But I also think that that concept might be a bit too mature for some bloggers. Maybe.) :-))

Sure hope Redman and McBride get themselves back on track. Each can contribute to a successful season if they do.

Got the blinkin’ taxes done at last. Lord, I do hate that annual chore! The IRS could simplify the paperwork a lot: 1. How much did you earn last year?
2. Send it to us. sign…………………….. and mail.

By Lowermanor

April 14, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

DOB —

GREAT CALL on Tom Russell. I’m in SF, and you can hear Tom Russell on the radio. Here’s a KPIG playlst for you. When in rain delay, tune to www.kpig.com and give a listen. I bet you could even email a request to sty@kpig.com, and they’d play it for you:

String Cheese Incident Johnny Cash

Little Feat Big Bang Theory Little Feat

Son Volt Action

10000 Maniacs Like The Weather

Led Kaapana And The Original Pipeline

Mary McCaslin Things We Said Today

Joan Osborne Spider Web

Tom Russell Pugilist At 59

Todd Snider Late Last Night

Warren Zevon Disorder In The House

Tommy Womack Alpha Male & The Canine Myst

Rodney Crowell Still Learning How To Fly

Dire Straits One World

Neil Young Flags Of Freedom

BTW, Giants fans are very afraid of this season. To demonstrate, Beneitez as closer is about the third or fourth worst thing about the Giants (in order: Offense, Age [no position players under 32!], no homegrown offensive prospects, Zito contract,…then Benetiz.
Looking forward to July 23rd myself…. Go Bravos.

By serbok

April 14, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

my 2nd time posting here, I also think BC gets more credit than he is due~ he’s the worst post season mgr ive ever seen, then again maybe thats because he’s had so many oppurtunities to screw up? Anyone who thinks chipper isnt the best hitter on the team, should change there blog name

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Not seen many managers have you? :-)))

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

.30-06 writes: “I know this has been discussed and beaten to death, but why not package salty with a couple of other minor leaguers or langerhans in a deal in hopes of acquiring someone like a baldelli.”

You’re right, it’s been beaten to death.

By serbok

April 14, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

good one gil :o)

By Willy Wally

April 14, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

When we get finished beating topics to death, we beat managers, players, and each other to death.

By AK

April 14, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

This game is going to start at 10.

DOB: Does Salty look like he could be a major league 1st baseman?

By Yars

April 14, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

DOB……I know you used to dig Nine Inch Nails. Their new album, Year Zero comes out Tuesday. A noisy, electro-rock album. The tracks I’ve heard so far kick *ss. Seeing Diaz playing 1B last night was a trip. I hope he plays more of it. I’m glad B. Pena is the backup catcher. When he’s in the lineup, I never think, “Oh boy, 0-4 & he’ll probably leave 8 runners left on base” like I did with Pratt last season.

By Rosalynn

April 14, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

DOB, please run out to the dugout and tell Bobba that Jimma thinks Chippa should not plah tonight on a sogga field. Chippa will surela huht himself on a slippera, sogga, field of plah. That oblique could go, or that toe could cuhl, or Chippa could catch a cold out theah and be out for weeks. Jimma thinks it will be best for Chippa to sit this one out. Now, do be a good boah and run down theah and let Bobba know. And, just foah the fun of it, see if that boah Diaz can plah some fuhst base tonight and when the wind blows we can see what kinda noise it makes whistling through that boah’s teeth! All this hostilita on tonight’s blog is reminiscent of when Jimma was Commanduh in chief and Leadah of the Free Wohld. I cannot take sides in the mattah but that crack about the size 54 pants was priceless. How can a radio boah be so clevah? He’s nevah been that clevah befoah. And heah is one moah thought about Chad Paronta - that boah has huht something most people won’t massage. That boah is going to have to administah self-therapa! Let’s wish him well and remind him to hurra back.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

Redman needs to go pitch in Japan or somewhere. I’m sure he’s a nice guy and can get this worked out, but we don’t have time to be AAA for him.

Also, nice pick on Marty Robbins DOB. I also like several of his works, including “El Paso City” and “Devil Woman.” I can still rememebr my grandfather listening to Marty Robbins. What a smooth voice, and he had the ability to make you feel like you were the one kissing Felina as you died. What a songwriter.

Will the game be played tonight?

By Willy Wally

April 14, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

priceless ms. carter.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this

Mrs. First Lady:

Impressive post at 8:12. You’re right, no one will massage that groin. He’ll have to comfort himself with some Krispy Kremes. Kruellers are the best.

Groins and former first ladies are not to be trifled with…

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Tarp’s off the field, folks. They’re getting it ready, and it’s only raining lightly. We might start this thing within a half-hour, maybe sooner.

By Oddjob

April 14, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

serbok The braves under BC have a winning record in post season and have won many tough series.While I’ve been disapointed many times let’s not forget that BC won ten strait opening round series and has reached five W,Series.To SJA I’m not going to pretend I like your style I don’t, but I’m responsible for my words and I try not to comment on peoples manner,So while in my mind I don’t owe you an apology as you seem to revel in that sort of nonsense,I will try to refrain from those sorts of exchanges in the future.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

Gil-Got the snowshoes, food, water and flashlights. They won’t even speculate how much snow that we’ll get. It’s just been reported as “record breaking snowfall”. The record for April is 15 inches. The few brave souls who will even hazard a guess talk about two feet. We just got eight inches the other day and a foot last week. I’m getting tired of this. It costs me $30 every time the guy plows my driveway.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Oh, The Humanity! Massaging one’s groin with a Krispy Kreme Kruller. How perverse.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the update DOB. I’m finishing up my sermon and need to know when to “ad-lib” the ending. Just kidding…but I will set the DVR.

Oh, and by the way, thanks again for all the hard work you do. We on the DOB/Man In Black blog salute you!

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Wait Lew, that’s not what I meant! I meant to eat a krueller and let that take his mind off his groin problems…

Oh well, to heck with it. It’s funnier the other way.

By Rosalynn

April 14, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this

Hello, Carolina Ladah, it was good to heah from you todah. Thank you foah pahing yoah taxes on time again this yeah. Jimma and I have been having a hahd time making ends meet latela and theh ah going to increase ouah allowance this yeah. But we must have yoah taxes to do this. Submarines and Libraras ah expensive to opahrate and Jimma is beside himself with worra. Jimma is quite the authorita on the economa and he knows moah monah is required to pah all these bills. Now, DOB, did you get down to talk to Bobba? What does that boah smell like when he is all wet? Is Robert right? I undahstand that theh have put the tahp back on at Turna Field. It does not look like theh can get this game going. Is Langahans plahing tonight if it quits raining?

By AK

April 14, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Tarp back on……

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this

Slow night on the blog so I am going to tell one of my favorite baseball stories……

Earl Weaver, the legendary manager for the Baltimore Orioles, was then the manager of the Rochester Redwings, the Orioles AAA farm club. On this particular night, the Red Wings were playing Richmond at old Parker Field, a drafty old relic of a stadium built in the ‘40s. A young fan was blowing on one of those long plastic horns that could be bought at the souvenir shop and quite honestly he was loud and annoying but no one really thought anything of it until it came out in the paper the next day that Earl Weaver had protested to the umpire about the noise.

Only in the minor leagues… Never one to miss an opportunity, the club offered free general admission tickets the next night to anyone bringing a musical instrument to the game. Over 6000 people took advantage of the offer. The team even had a Dixieland Band in addition to the organ player for the “First Annual Earl Weaver Music Appreciation Night”. Great fun for all and a lesson to Earl, next time to just suffer quietly and move on to the next town.

By Rodger

April 14, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

CL I think Nancy Pelosi has introduced that bill…

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

DOB, do you have an update for us?

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Good story Gil. Thanks!

By aeg

April 14, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

DOB: What’s the latest on the status of the game?

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Yes, I just got back from sliding on the tarp, ala Rick Dempsey. Did you see me? Oh, forgot, no TV during the rain delay….

Indeed, tarp’s on. Beers and hot dogs being sold, and ponchos, too. Cha-ching. Concessions stands are open, folks, step right up….

By Yars

April 14, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Gil……..great story. That is why baseball to a lot of us is a big part of our lives. The history of the game, the players, the stories, ect… A thinking mans game. The game can be looked at in so many ways. Let me let you in on a little secret, I like artificial turf. I think the Blue Jays & Twins are the only teams in MLB that still have artificial turf.

By MEB

April 14, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

CL… I think you forgot one line:

1. Do you wish to make advance payments for the 2007 tax year?

Yeah right! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

April 14, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

DOB I swear, how did we get through rain delays all these years before this blog? I mean I could watch Dick Clark’s bloopers on TBS (the same one they’ve been showing since the day I bought my official welcome to the Braves Biff Pocaroba T-shirt. Did I spell that right?)Or I could read this blog. Is there really any debate?

By Lew

April 14, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Yars-You like artificial turf? Tell me you don’t massage yourself with Krispy Kreme Krullers, too.

By Carolina Lady

April 14, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

‘Evenin’, Miz Carter! Yeah, gotta take good care of y’all. And all those millions of folk from south of here who have moved in. And anybody who has ever served a day in Congress. And their families. We’d all better shut off these computers and go get a second/third job! (DON’T get me started!!) :-)))

Too late…….. blood pressure is rising…..

Rodger, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if President Pelo…..I mean, Speaker Pelosi had that on her agenda.

Now, baseball…… double-header tomorrow??

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Oddjob, we’ll try to keep it going without your erudite commentary. We’ll try to persevere.

What objectionable behavior have I condoned or encouraged? Earlier tonight I ripped all of the ones who are caught up in the self-absorbed insulting from keyboards like 6th-graders, as if anyone else out there cares to hear the back-and-forth. I don’t condone or encourage that crap, or your gutter-mouthed retorts.

By Carolina Lady

April 14, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

MEB, you’re right! They’ve already got everything I had and one of my dogs! I hid the other one out in the woods.

By Lew

April 14, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Now Ma’am-You can’t let those Democrats get to you.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

Ms Rosalynn I filed my mothers incomed tax yesterday. She ask that she would appreciate it greatly if you and Mr Jimma could cut back on the new submarines as she just finsh paying for the President’s new Airforce One. She said she would not mind so much but she has all those candidates asking her for money too. She says she thinks they are hedgeing their bets.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Game IS RAINED OUT.

By Carolina Lady

April 14, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

Lew, it’s politicians and our government in general! They’ve forgotten their responsibilities to the nation and Americans. Oh,lord! I’m on the soapbox again…….sorry, y’all. It sure gets my goat!!

(How’re you doing?)

By AK

April 14, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

Im guessing no make up date was announced…..

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 14, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Double dip tomorrow?

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

I was always too poor to be a Republican and too smart to be a Democrat

By Weatherman

April 14, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

What does a beat writer do during a rain delay… In the dugout, there are all kinds of outlets, has anyone seen the upside down man? Quite possibly the most humorous thing the the world. Just wondering, Thanks DOB

By Brent

April 14, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

DOB- double header tommorrow? or will they try to get it in the next time the Fish come to town?

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Hudson will pitch tomorrow on regular rest, Davies being moved to Wednesday vs the Cubs.

Marlins will move back tonight’s starter Olsen to tomorrow’s game.

Someone asked if it’s on TBS _ yes, just like it was already scheduled. This rainout means nothing in terms of tomorrow’s game time, TV, etc. it’ll be made up later, haven’t said when.

Huddy doesn’t like extra rest, so they’re accomodating him.

It’ll go Hudson tomorrow, then James and Smoltz at Washington, then Davies and Redman vs. Cubs.

No word yet on Marlins pitcher tomorrow

By serbok

April 14, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

are the braves on tbs 2morrow? also does it look like a game 2night? i get off work in about an hour and a half~and am off tomorrow. i’m lovin this rain delay:o)

By JasonInMaine

April 14, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

What’s the weather supposed to be like tomorrow? Does it look like they will be able to play ball?

By PhillyGirl

April 14, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

For whatever it may be worth (which I acknowledge isn’t much), as a Philly fan, I would love if Bobby Cox were fired by the Braves.

Then, I would love it if Philly sold the farm to pay him whatever he wanted so that he could manage up here.

On a different note, we have some mutual good news……the Mets got smacked by the Nationals.

By David O'Brien

April 14, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Brent, they only rarely do doubleheaders on getaway days, and never when a team is coming back to town two more times in that season.

It’ll be made up at a later date, probably to be announced tomorrow.

Weather tomorrow is supposed to be cool, but no rain.

By Phiz50

April 14, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

MEB…I respect your baseball experience but Redman has done the job in the past and it seems early to write him off especially at the bargain price of $750,000. The young talent in the minors is not going anywhere.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 14, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

don ho is dead! yes, don ho is dead! journalist is sorry to break this news. don ho is dead!

By Willy Wally

April 14, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

JJS, thanks for the Don Toe update. Not sure who the heck he is but thanks for the update. After reading your breaking newsflash, I went over to Wikipedia, and saw that they were already calling him a recently deceased person on Wikipedia. How is that possible? Is there someone who waits for people to die and then runs immediately over to Wikipedia to update his Wiki profile? What is the deal with that? Some people are kind of creepy.

May Don Toe rest in peace with the Almighty or whatever his interpretation of a Supreme Being is.

By MEB

April 14, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Phiz50… I certainly hope I’m wrong and Redman will pitch lights out in his next two starts. I think the Braves will be patient for at least that long. His ball control, movement, and ability to vary speed are what he relies on. So far, he hasn’t fooled anyone with his stuff.

JJS… careful with the “ho” comments they may get you in trouble. On a serious note it is sad that a legend had indeed passed.

Tiny bubbles (tiny bubbles)

In the wine (in the wine)

Make me happy (make me happy)

Make me feel fine (make me feel fine)

By joebrave

April 14, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Just my thoughts:lemme see so far this week we have had Bobby Cox as a donkey> well I say that He is the freatest manager of our generation, so if He wants to chase carrots,eat sugar cubes and pick his nose with his hoof until someone has to wind him up by the tail and steer him toward the mound ,then so be it.Bobby Cox is and will always be the greatest Atlanta Braves manager in history! so I will respect DOB’s request and not call out Robert and refer to him as an Irrelevant,asinine,pile of turds!!!

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

MEB…I hate to say it but Redman might pray that the lights are out when he pitches otherwise he is going to be lit up….

Okay, enought bashing, maybe he has some issues we don’t know about and will become the comeback pitcher of the year…..:-))))

Anyone think that Francoure will start using two hands more to catch flyballs in the outfield after lastnight? I think he has been watching Andruw too much.

By joebrave

April 14, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Anyone see The Braves report the other night? Brian Jordan picked Atl. to go to the W.S.: as for other opinions yes the pen needed to be addressed,I still think Wil Ledezma would make a nice 5th starter,and Someone needs to wake up Andruw Jones! Mike Hampton has a guaranteed contract and CANNOT be released or traded,R.Langerhans is a better fit for the Cubs,S.Marshall comes to mind there.And My Grandmother was a heavy set woman who never ate a Krispy Kreme donut in her life.So many Retards and So little time. Great Blog D.O.B. thank you for the job you do!

By Spike

April 14, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

DOB From someone who enjoys your comments and observations immensely, glad to see you take the jerks on here to task. This is supposed to be a baseball blog and when it turns gutter personal it is ugly. You would think these guys would have more respect for you.

By joebrave

April 14, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

Now if we could just get the Dodgers to rework that Dusty Baker deal!Please no more deals with the Dodgers!and it gives me Diharreah to Imagine Bobby Cox in a Philthies uni!!!

By joebrave

April 14, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

D.O.B, I just had an article come to mind from spring of 95 did you break the Braves raid Expos story? I can’t remember if you were on the beat then.

By The Grinch

April 14, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Howdy, all. JJS, it is a sad day indeed. However, we must all come to it sooner or later. I hope the injury to Parantoe doesn’t cause Bobby to start overusing the “big 3.” And for those speaking of Krispy Kremes earler, there are other ways to gain weight. I rarely eat sweets, but maintain a marvelous gut due mostly to BBQ and beer. Now, snooze time…

By journalist jimmy smith

April 14, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

ah yes, tiny bubbles … probably playing at dob’s house right now. don ho passed at a controversial time when ho’s are in the news. and how many ho’s can we identify on this blog? there is ho, ho, ho (santa claus) and ho chi minh, and gung-ho and heave-ho, and the ho in the hip-hop songs, and ho gauge trains, and ho many more? don ho will be missed. when jimmy smith saw don ho perform on waikiki beach, don ho was drinking very heavily and did not sing tiny bubbles that well. any ho’s on the braves? journalist thinks not. any in baseball? can think of one oh, but no ho. wait! chan ho park! there are ho’s in baseball! now, dob sliding on the tarp - the boy who wouldn’t hoe corn.

finally, in hockey news - hedberg played brilliantly. he made 37 saves, stopping a couple of breakaways and coming up with a brilliant toe save on shanahan’s point-blank shot off a rebound.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 14, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Okay, time to call it a night…..

By KC

April 14, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

LEW: “The we can b!tch some more about how they are not performing up to KC’s overly optimistic pre season evaluations.”

Just caught this. Of whom did I have an overly optimistic expectation? Just curious.

By MEB

April 14, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

We could have a ho-down out in the bullpen and snack on ho-ho’s. Ho-mer the Braves mascot could invite some of his ho-mies like Billy the Marlin. I wonder if Billy is in town. Shame we no longer have Chief Noka-ho-ma out there in his teepee. I don’t remember who sang the song Magic but we all know the words (of course I’ll probably be banned for this):

Ho, ho, ho

It’s magic, you know

Never believe it’s not so

It’s magic, you know

Never believe, it’s not so

By Oddjob

April 14, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

DOB One of my first post a few months back I mentioned my dog and either Jimmy or Jackass questioned what I might be doing with my 15 year old dog.This is common with these two and till now I don’t recall your having a problem with it.I don’t recall many days or nights that this sight hasn’t been infested with this nonsense.Whether you incourage these guys or not I can’t say for sure,what a do know is you converse with these guys regularly you can decide if that amounts to condoning or not.As for my scholarly postings you could check the UGA blogs or the Hawks where I,ve posted today,they’re about sports,but then I don’t have the collection of juvenile bus station,rain coat types to provoke me.The context in which you use the word erudite,now that could be ironic..you think ? or maybe just weak sarcasum.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

that was a tearful song - but not so tearful as to require banning meb from this blog. journalist can think of no more ho comparisons. don ho, r.i.p.

now, baseball … if another statue is erected at turner field, who would be worthy of this statue? murph? horner? maddux? uh, chipper? would the mizuno people donate a chipper statue? and how many mizuno emblems might there be incorporated into that statue? and if the statue were rigged to be interactive … might it speak to young fans? “uh, sign your program for $7 after the game.” and would people gather by this statue? “meet you before the game at the chipper jones statue” - and everyone would think it was the player at third base that is the statue. doesn’t field the position very well anymore but neither does don ho play a very good ukulele now.

oh, well … rainout. see you tomorrow.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

I cant wait to hear Imus’ eulogy of Don Ho.

Wait, he cant do that kind of stuff on the air

DOH!

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

oddjob, you can leave jimmy smith out of your posts. journalist routinely skips your posts and you are invited to skip jimmy smith’s. some weeks ago, oddjob went back and forth with a jimmy smith impostor and had some ugly posts about jimmy smith - of course, it wasn’t even jimmy smith posting with oddjob. at that time, journalist felt oddjob brought nothing to the blog, and nothing has changed this journalist’s opinion. keep up your hostilities with others and jimmy smith will just jump over your posts - but do not sully the name jimmy smith again. erudite was a pretty good call by dob. sarcasum, huh?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Joebrave, i was covering the Marlins in ‘95 for the Sun-Sentinel, living in Fort Lauderdale.

By Steve McP

April 15, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Sadly I happen to know that Magic was by Pilot. I am surprised it crossed the pond as they were a British group that I remember from my school days in the UK in mid-70’s.

It would really help time wise if we could all agree that there is nothing to do about Hampton’s contract, Baldelli is not coming anytime soon, Cox is a nailed on Hall of Fame manager and probably has forgotten more about Baseball than people running him down have ever known.

Despite the poor averages of one or five of the hitters let us not loose sight of the fact that the Braves are still the most sucessful team in baseball thus far

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

PhillyGirl, I responded earlier to your post about Cox, but for some reason it didn’t appear here.

Anyway, I said something about how a certain someone was probably shaking his head when he read your post, confused about how a good person like you could be so misinformed and swayed by the hype machine/baseball conspiracy designed to keep Cox as the Braves manager forever (wink)….

Oh, and RIP, Mr. Don Ho. Tiny Bubbles forever….

By the way, the only good thing about tonight’s extended rain delay: It was country-western theme night at the ballpark, and someone picking the music picked a lot of the real stuff, including J.R., Patsy Cline, Hank 1, Marty Robbins, Yoakum, etc.

And when Pete Van Wieren _ who’s a real fan of the true country, along with great new Americana stuff like M. Ward _ and I requested some Merle Haggard, they immediately threw on a couple of classic Hag tunes, including “Momma Tried.”…

Oh, and Grinch hates Nick Cave, but for those of you who appreciate the great Aussie singer-songwriter/rock god, his new band Grinderman (bunch of guys who’ve played with him before, just under a new name) has a really strong new album out, rocks harder and louder and with more humor than anything he’s done in years.

And Cave himself plays a raucous guitar on this one, not just his typical singing and piano/organ playing.

By Soft Jeremy

April 15, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Mr and Mrs Hermida, Do you know where your little injury plagued— is that an understatement!!— boy is tonight??

Thank God The little punk isn’t playing in an area that cares about its Major League Baseball team or he would be in the process of being waxed like nothing you have ever seen.

jeremy—according to scouts—was to be the real deal over Jeff, but I’ll let you call that one so far.

Jeff, you weasel—It was a ball off your kneecap—X-rays showed nothing like what would show up on a gut test!! Get your slacking bottom onto the playing field—and by the way— Start To Swing The Bat, instead of acting like you are Eddie Yost—Sorry for 50’s reference.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

“Anyway, I said something about how a certain someone was probably shaking his head when he read your post, confused about how a good person like you could be so misinformed and swayed by the hype machine/baseball conspiracy designed to keep Cox as the Braves manager forever (wink)….”

My friend, I hope you have a strong stomach, cuz in ‘09, you’re gonna be eating crow day after day after day

There’s gonna be a LOT of misinformed people who will be very surprised at how well the Braves will do once Donk is removed from the premises.

I’m curious what the Cox supporters will do. Will they

1. reverse course, and claim to have been against him all along

or

2.Bury their heads further in the sand and try desperately to find some way to save their hero’s legacy

‘09 will be a big shock to a lot of Braves fans. Having a manager with a functioning brain cell will be a totally new experience to an entire generation of Braves fans

Next to the senile version of Connie Mack, Bobby Cox has got to be, hands down, the stupidest human being to ever set foot on a baseball diamond

By choppinmama

April 15, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

Hey, don’t y’all be dissin’ Don Ho. He was MR. ENTERTAINMENT in Honolulu back when you could actually see Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach, the Beach Boys still had their heads screwed on straight, and nobody used leashes on their longboards.

Go to the prom or party after graduation - then go to see Don Ho. That’s what we did back in the day.

Tiny bubbles, in the wine. Tiny bubbles, makes me feel fine.

Tiny bubbles - and maybe some Maui wowie. Those were the good ol’ Hawaiian days. Rest in peace Bro’ Ho.

By Bravos29

April 15, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

Whens the doubleheadder. Please dont rain tomorrow

By Spike

April 15, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this

Choppinmama Spent many a day and night in Waikiki and saw Don Ho many times at the Waikiki Beachcomber. He was the man in town back then. Suffered a lot with heart problems in his last few years…probably due to lack of Maui Wowie:)

Sorry to hear that McBride was sent down, but I think his attitude about it was great. Can’t try to find the strike zone while walking the bases loaded. If it weren’t for Yates his ERA would be a zip code. I’d be willing to bet that he’s back before too long. He has talent, attitude and youth on his side and showed last year what he could do. I also hope Paronto’s injury heals quicky and he’s back before too long. All the BS about Krispy Creme and his weight causing his injury…Garciaparra had a groin pull and he had about 10% body fat, Kyle Davies didn’t have too much extra fat on his body and look what happened to him. Wouldn’t want to speculate on Chad’s fat %, but I’ll bet he’s been that way most of his adult life. Whatever the case, the Braves need him.

Amazing that we are 9 games into the season and: 1. Bobby Cox is the worst manager in baseball. 2. Chipper Jones should retire ‘cause he can’t hit. 3. KJ should be switched to left field, Diaz should be at first base, and Prado should be brought up.(Freakin’ brilliant) 4. McBride should be sent down, Paronto shouldn’t be pitching, and we should package Yates and Villareal for a new left fielder. Gotta love all these folks who during spring training thought we were the best team in years. There are 153 games left people. Why don’t we give it a chance before we dismantle this year’s version of the Braves.

By TMIF

April 15, 2007 3:04 AM | Link to this

David,

I ‘m gonna save this blog for my Terence Moore Idiot File. And remind you that the Braves have not only just completed a whopping 6% of their regular season schedule, but they do in fact have the best record in their division as well as all of Major League Baseball. Every player on the roster (as well as the team) will struggle at times during the long season. Do they need to spot you Bill James and Chris Berman wannabees a 5 run lead in the first inning every night or maintain a 10-20 game lead all season so you can type the type? LOL.

TMIF

By Ron

April 15, 2007 3:11 AM | Link to this

DonCoburleon, Good point about trying to trade for Ryan Freel. I mentioned that earlier in the year, but figured they would want to much because he would more than likely be a starter for them somewhere in the field, but with him not starting we should be able to make a trade for him. Maybe, give up Escobar, or Prado, or Kelly Johnson, Startup(their GM gave up Kearns, Lopez, and Wagner for relievers last season, maybe package some relievers for him, it would worth it.) Freel would be just what we would need!!!!!

By Ron

April 15, 2007 3:24 AM | Link to this

DOB, you think we have a shot at gettin Ryan Freel?

By ncscoots

April 15, 2007 6:34 AM | Link to this

Argh…it’s official, the name “Ryan Freel” is now the recognized blog version of the Chinese Water Torture. Please, somebody, anybody, go ahead and bring up Chone Figgins just so we can get it over with.

By all-seeing eye

April 15, 2007 7:02 AM | Link to this

I’m so glad they send McBride down to Richmond! I thought it was going to turn into another Kolb or Reitsma situation..

By bergian

April 15, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

ncscoots,bring of Chone Figgins? Mere childs play, I wonder….could we trade for Carl Crawford????? ;)

By JC FROM UT

April 15, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

What is the weather like in Atlanta? Will the game be played today?

By Robert

April 15, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Let’s trade Hampton and McBride for Crawford and Scott Kazmir :P

By Robert

April 15, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

Or let’s trade Bobby Cox for a moldy half eaten six day old egg salad sandwich and the backwash from an empty can of PBR

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 15, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

Glad to see Moylan get another shot in the majors. I doubt he will see action today unless it is a blow out as it is the “Big Three’s” turn in relief and the weather forecast does not look promising for the next few days in the Northeast. Monday night’s game is going to be real iffy.

DOB… My taste in music extends past country but modern country has become so cookie cutter in its style that I loathe to listen to it anymore. It is just plain whiney in nature, especially the garbage on the radio. Still like Texas roadhouse blues and did not say I did not listen to rock, just don’t care for the new stuff very much. I did order the Bluegrass album you recommended.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

Rocco, where art thou?

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Jorge Cantu, the Braves nation turns its lonely eyes towards you.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

What about Langerhans and Davies for Albert Pujols?

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Isn’t Willy Aybar a better player than Freel without the speed? Just wait until Aybar gets back before making rash judgments for crazy trades.

By The Grinch

April 15, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

DOB, shame on you. I never said I hate Nick Cave, only that when I sat down with a friend who played me an alblum of his, I found it…well, not much to my liking. Perhaps I should have tried it again, or a different one, or a different drug combination while listening, etc. Or maybe it just wasn’t meant to be. However, hate is much too strong a word for someone I hardly know (I love Christina Aguilera(sp?) as long as the mute button’s on). Oh yeah, I couldn’t find “Greedcards” at Best Buy the other day, is that the right name? Of course, they didn’t have Hank III either, so who knows. Had to grab the new Godsmack instead.

Gil, agreed about “New Country,” which has been going on since about 1984. I really can’t stand that crap. To me it’s mostly underwear models (male and female) from California who couldn’t make it in pop so they donned a cowboy hat, sang the same songs through their nose and voila! Pathetic.

What about a combination of releivers and prospects for Linebrink and Coco Crisp?

By bergian

April 15, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

anyone else notice that Tampa Bay is getting a lot of play on baseball tonight this year? Interesting. Usually teams not expected to be .500 don’t exist on baseball tonight.

If they had any pitching beyond Kasmir, they would be a threat in the AL east, honest! I mean, Josh Hamilton would still be in AAA there. They ended Johan Santana’s Metrodome unbeaten streak at 25 games. Japanese import Akinori Iwamura looks to be the best 3rd baseman in the AL. Having Delmon Young, Carl Crawford, Elijah Dukes and Rocco Baldelli in the outfield means they still need to make some trades. They just need to find a way to switch divisions or leagues if they ever truly want to compete for a division title. Strangely enough, they have given both the Yankees and Red Sox fits.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Robot, for that that interesting post. The immense range, the breadth and depth you cover in your posts always amazes me….

Doesn’t look too good today, though they’re saying it might stop raining after noon. So maybe we’ll get it in. Gonna be nasty out there, though….

Gil, agreed on 99-percent of modern country. It’s garbage. But there are some great relatively new acts like the Wrights, and some great acts still in their primes like Yoakam and Kelly Joe Phelps and Lovett, and alt-country/rockers like Shooter Jennings and Hank III.

Lee Ann Womack just put out a great album a year or two ago, “There’s More Where That Came From.”

There’s plenty others, but yes, the most popular “new country” acts are, to me, awful and have nothing to do with real country. Give me Cash, Possum, Waylon, Willie, Hank, Patsy, Coe, Loretta, Wynette, Bobby Bare, Kristofferson, Pride, Yoakam, Twitty, Buck Owens….

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 15, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Grinch… I have been ordering CDs on line for years, however, you can really pick up bargins at places like Goodwills, Salvation Army Outlets. yardsales, etc…. I have converted many of my older LPs and cassettes over to CDs and now in process of converting them to MP3s as I get to them. Belive it or not, I do have a real life….. just waiting for warmer weather…

By Rosalynn

April 15, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Happa Jacka Robinson Dah everabodah! Let’s hope we get the game in todah. Jimma and I will miss that boah Don Ho … that boah could croon! I will alwahs remembah when Don Ho sang Tina Bubbles for Jimma and me befoah we boahded the USS Jimma Carter in Hawaaa. Jimma thought we should take Don on boahd and let him plah that ukulele at the bottom of the sea and see what soht of sound that would make on sonah. Jimma is alwahs trahing to improve national securita. And who will plah second base todah? Left field? Fuhst base? Oh, the uncertainta! Now, I would like to send a shout out to Carolina Ladah for her patriotic suppoht of Amendment XVI. Jimma and I have that Amendment framed in ouah Famila Room. It was nice to see DOB remembah Don Ho. Not manah people know Don Ho and June Carter Cash weah once an item befoah Johnna Cash came to town. Countra ukulele. And this wohd about the canned hams available on e-bah: I believe these mah be impohted canned hams and theah should be avoided at all costs. It is a raina dah heah in Atlanta and I feah this rain may affect the game. I must go check the Doppla.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

choppinmama is a beach girl! jimmy smith and baby seal also enjoy the beach very much. having spent time in hawaii, does choppinmama perhaps dabble in ukulele repair? grinch has a martin that needs attention. baby seal was going to have a look but, with the weather warming up, baby seal has so many weed eaters to work on that baby seal will never get to grinch’s ukulele. now, baseball … it is going to be a big day all around the league because it is jackie robinson day. the braves could use jackie robinson right now - even the old jackie robinson could hit more than .167. journalist saw brian jordan on television and it looks like brian jordan could step right into the dugout if needed by bobby cox this season. if anyone is disturbed by thorman’s play at first remember brian jordan there and take comfort in the big canadian first baseman.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 15, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

Interesting article in the local paper (Times Dispatch) this morning saying that participation in organized youth baseball by minority inner city youths nation wide is actually on the increase. This seems to run counter to the rhetoric being espoused by Terrence Moore etal about the lack of interest by those of African-American decent in the great American game.

[http://www.timesdispatch.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=RTD%2FMGArticle%2FRTD_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173350743109&path=%21sports&s=1045855934844]

By Lew

April 15, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

Robert- “Eating Crow In 09”-great name for a band. KC-To quote the inimitable Mr. McEnroe “You can’t be serious.” You overly optimistic? Never. Dude, about the only one you weren’t overly optimistic about was Hudson, to this point. However, it wan’t a rip on you-I normally prize your overt optiism. It was a sarcastic remark aimed at the doom and gloomers who yesterday suggested such gems as basically replacing half of our team with our AA club, moving a 1B who has never played above A ball to our starting lineup, getting Baldelli and Crawford and even trading Chipper and Andruw. Context, Dude, Context.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 15, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

Okay ya’ll… have a good day… Hope we can get the game in… Otherwise its RACIN!!!!! GO DENNY :-)))

By Carolina Lady

April 15, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

How many besides me had to Google “Amendment XVI”?
:-)))

jjs, my support isn’t voluntary. I’ve never been in one, but I’m sure I wouldn’t like jail. :-))

PhillyGirl, y’all should just hire Robot Robert. He’s much smarter than Bobby Cox and knows more about baseball than anybody else. And hopefully he’d be too busy to blog. Works out great for everyone! :-)

By Eugene

April 15, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

We are a baargain basement team. Its time to pony up and get a Left Fielder who can at least get the ball out of the infield. What’s the use of having great pitching and we can’t get more production out of LF and 1B.. I wonder waht Jermaine Dye is up to?????? Oh I forgot, not African American players on the roster…

By Bob, journalist

April 15, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

David O’B, erudite commentary … hee hee … Oh my goodness!! You have to be more careful when using the Thesaurus … methinks you mistakenly looked under Antonyms instead of Synonyms.

Gil, being poor is no excuse!

In golf, coaches and teaching pros use hundreds of “drills” to help you cure your flaws … Haralson county native, Yankee Outfielder and Professional Golfer Sam Byrd’s hankerchief drill for increasing power and improving the swing … that he learned from the Babe, was one of my favorites.

My highschool baseball coach has one that might help Langerhans … and some others … when we played intersquad games, he was the homeplate umpire. Balls that were in your hitting zone were called strikes, regardless of the strike zone … with no strikes, balls in the strike zone that weren’t in your hitting zone counted as a ball if you didn’t swing, two strikes if you did … with two strikes, all borderline “strike zone” pitches were called strikes.

All called strikes resulted in a “lap” after the game, two if you took a called strike three.

I remember taking a “strike” that was obviously low and away, I argued … “Coach, that was a ball” … “Yes, but you should have killed it! 6 Laps, 1 for taking the pitch, 5 for arguing balls and strikes”.

I’m not disappointed in Redman … only because I have no positive expectations … but, I don’t understand why he wasn’t used in the final game with Washington instead of Smoltz. It’s posited by his defenders that he needs to be less rested in order to be effective … and regardless of possible protestations, Smoltz would have been fine with an extra day. Methinks the team’s attitude would have been better in both games.

By ncscoots

April 15, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

Jackie Robinson Day. And for those who haven’t read it, Boys Of Summer might be a good read in honor of it. Though not strictly about Jackie (and indeed not even strictly about baseball), the book gives some insight into the nature of his experience, and especially the nature of the men around him during those days. Heck, it even gives some insight into the life of a beat writer, LOL. I recommend it to some of our younger bloggers who may have missed it.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Are you referring to this generation’s Dave Winfield? :-)

By Lew

April 15, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

Eugene-Go back to bed. We’ve heard it all before and it lacked substance even then.

By ncscoots

April 15, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Thanks to berigan, Willy, and Grinch…all trade scenarios that hit my absolute last nerve have been brought up by you guys, LOL. My day is truly made, shoot me now before my life goes downhill :-)

By KC

April 15, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

LEW: Here were my pre-season predictions from a month ago…

ROTATION

John Smoltz – 20-6, 3.05 ERA

Hudson – 19-7, 3.13

James – 17-7, 3.67

Cormier – 14-8, 4.20

Redman – 5-3, 4.37 (in 12 starts) Okay… I’ve give you this one. lol!

Hampton – 9-6, 4.30 (in 20 starts) Hey… there was a statistical 90% chance that he’d pitch this year, and I went with the odds.

*Back when I thought Davies would be in the rotation, I predicted an ERA in the low 4’s from him.

BULLPEN

Wickman - 3.06 ERA, 38 saves in 43 opportunities

Gonzalez - 2.32 *So far he’s making me look bad, but I actually predicted slightly higher ERAs for bother Gonzalez and Soriano than what they posted last year.

Soriano - 2.27

McBride - 2.90 (I expected him to pick up where he left off last year, and I also thought he’d be used almost exclusively as a situational lefty)

Paronto: 2.80 (I thought Bobby would use him in the Kevin Grybosky role, which would keep his ERA down just as it did Grybosky’s when he was here, because even when he failed, the runs would be charged to the previous pitcher. I’ve been surprised that he’s been using him for whole innings. With him being used in his current role, I would guess and ERA in the low-mid 3.00 range.)

Villarreal - 3.37 (He posted an ERA under 3.00 after the all-star break last year)

LINEUP

Johnson - .280 12 HR, 48 RBI, .360 OBP

Renteria - .290, 14 HR, 58 RBI, .368 OBP, 16 SB

C.Jones - .319, 27 HR, 92 RBI (in 135 games)

A.Jones - .276, 49 HR, 128 RBI (It’s a walk year, so I’m looking for big things)

McCann - .313, 29 HR, 98 RBI

Francoeur - .279, 34 HR, 110 RBI

Thorman/Wilson (combined) - .263, 23 HR, 81 RBI (They’re making me look bad, but I don’t think it was or is now an unreasonable expectation)

Diaz/Langerhans (combined) - .272, 21 HR, 76 RBI (My power prediction may fall short. Langerhans was jacking balls out in the Spring, and Diaz beefed up over the winter, so I was looking for a bit more power there between the 2 of them)

Where am I being wildy, unrealistically optimistic?

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

journalist bob is back! this is good news! bob, welcome back to this blog sight, and why no mention of don ho?

By Lew

April 15, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

KC-Go back and read the post that got the hair on your back up. You were an incidental mention. You’re missing the entire point. Dude, the post wasn’t about you. It was about the inane posts that were pouring down like the snow we’re supposed to get the next three days. I was attempting, in a sarcastic manner, to show how stupid some of the suggestions were. I repeat-the post wasn’t about you. However, don’t get me started on the total absurdity of trying to make specific predictions like that that far in advance.

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

Gil, the link you posted didn’t work (try again if you feel like it!). The only “blacks in baseball” story I could find on the Times-Dispatch site (the article that included some comments by Brian Jordan) pretty much confirmed the same causes and symptoms that I’ve read everywhere else, including a lack of participation by, and opportunity for, young kids in the inner cities. Was there another article?

btw, not so much rain in the forecast here (though it still looks very threatening), but winds gusting to 45 mph are predicted. Could be an adventure today if they play.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

let’s get to 400 posts before noon boys. come on, start typing away.

By KC

April 15, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Lew: To tell you the truth, I have really gotten the impression over the last couple months that you’re slightly more optimistic than I am. That’s not a bad thing (and I don’t think you mean it negatively when you call me optimistic), but it just seems that way to me.

That optimism is under the surface, and you don’t want people to see it, but it’s there. It comes out more in the way you underestimate the competition, than anything you’re willing to say publicly. I’ve given the Mets a great deal more fear/respect than you have over the past few months. Looking lower than you should on the competition is a form of optimism for your cause. Anyway…

Welcome to the optimists club!!

By beachcomber

April 15, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Hoping for baseball today after yesterday’s downpour in ATL and this morning’s in TB. DOB - I share your (and other’s) concern about 1B. No so much 2nd and LF. If Langerhans continues to struggle, we simply add some offense at the cost of some defense in LF. By the way, it was interesting to see Diaz wearing a first basemen’s mitt at the end of the Marlins game Friday. Johnson will come around - and if not, there are adequate replacements at the major and minor league level. Lastly, thanks for the El Paso lead-in. Curious fact - it was the first #1 hit of the era of the 60’s - Diana Ross’ Someday We’ll Be Together being the last. Go Braves.

By Lew

April 15, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

KC-Dude-I’m glad you finally grew a set, it’s about time. But you’re directing your charges in the wrong direction, my little IED. You took two words (overly optimistic) entirely out of context. I’ve told you several times what my point was. Either you get it or you don’t-I can’t put it in any clearer language than what I have. As far as my optimism. Dude, you really need to learn some of the not so fine points about talking smack with people who come here and give us grief. It doesn’t matter if I was scared excrementless over the Mets and their team. When a Mets’ fan comes to Mr. O’Brien’s Neighborhood for the sole purpose of giving us a hard time, I guide myself by the immortal words of P.T. Barnum-“Never give a sucker an even break.” Damn, Son, if I was out to get you it would be for sitting there in the middle of the smack talking and saying what a great rotation the Mets had last year. That’s what would have (and frankly, did) gotten my ire up. You should have your buddy’s back-whether or not you agree with him. I would have figured you knew that. I dare say I have a pretty damn good idea about how good EVERYONE in baseball is, because I study real hard and usually do my homework. But be that as it may-in this instance, you were nothing but a one liner, Dude. Please get over it.

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

One thing about Langerhans’ and Thorman’s struggles; looking at the game logs, each of them has only started on consecutive days once; either off days, rainouts, or left-handed opponents have kept them from playing on a regular basis.

I’m not really opposed to platooning, or to playing Diaz more, but on the other hand I would think playing every day for a few days might help some of these guys get comfortable and work out their problems.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I have become my own version of an optimist. If I can’t make it through one door, I’ll go through another door - or I’ll make a door. Something terrific will come no matter how dark the present.

I have had dreams and I have had nightmares, but I have conquered my nightmares because of my dreams.

I try to avoid looking forward or backward, and try to keep looking upward.

The average pencil is seven inches long, with just a half-inch eraser - in case you thought optimism was dead.

Both optimists and pessimists contribute to our society. The optimist invents the airplane and the pessimist the parachute.

A pessimist is a man who has been compelled to live (or blog) with an optimist.

The nice part about being a pessimist is that you are constantly being either proven right or pleasantly surprised.

A pessimist sees only the dark side of the clouds, and mopes; a philosopher sees both sides, and shrugs; an optimist doesn’t see the clouds at all - he’s walking on them.

An optimist is the human personification of spring.

Optimists are nostalgic about the future.

A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties.

In the long run the pessimist may be proved right, but the optimist has a better time on the trip.

It doesn’t hurt to be optimistic. You can always cry later

An optimist is merely an ex-pessimist with his pockets full of money, his digestion in good condition, and his wife in the country.

Pessimist: One who, when he has the choice of two evils, chooses both. ~Oscar Wilde

A pessimist is a man who thinks all women are bad. An optimist is a man who hopes they are.

There is no sadder sight than a young pessimist. ~Mark Twain

How many pessimists end up by desiring the things they fear, in order to prove that they are right?

an optimist is a guy that has never had much experience.

The place where optimism most flourishes is the lunatic asylum.

Always borrow money from a pessimist, he doesn’t expect to be paid back. - Mike Hampton

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Why aren’t they playing a double-header today ? It would get the schedule back on track. Redman needs releasing.

By Rosalynn

April 15, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Wind gusts of 45 MPH? Chippa must not plah todah! Imagine that boah tryin’ to get undah a popup in a 45 MPH wind! That could be deadla and Chippa could end up like Don Ho. That new glove Chippa is sportin’ reminds me a lot of an Easta dress I woah while we weah in Washington. It had some rabbit fuh on the cuffs and I nevah felt real confident in the field weahin it. If Chippa is in the lineup todah I will be vera surprised what with all the sogga plahing conditions and that wind blowin’ popups outa Chippa’s glove. Too bad that boah Ahbah has a soah hand and can’t plah todah. I wondah if that boah has tried soakin’ that soah hand in some soah hand remeda? Mayba Ahbah could soak his hand in some liniment and then massage Paronta’s injura. Take one for the team, so to speak.

By KC

April 15, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

LEW: Okay, let me get this straight… If someone makes a comment about you in passing, you should never ask that person to qualify his statement… because it was only made in passing?

Anyway… I know it’s hard to know these things when we’re dealing solely with text, and you can’t see my face or hear my voice, but… I’m not in the slightest bit miffed or upset. In fact, I’ve had a smile on my face as I’ve typed responses to your last couple posts. So there’s nothing for me to “get over”.

I just thought is was high time to give you a little grief over all the “optimist” stuff, when I sincerely believe you are at least every bit as optimistic about this Braves team as I am. I’m just jabbing back at you a little. Don’t get your blood pressure up. =)

By Braves20

April 15, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

This week’s Thorman-Wilson update. Combined average .136 (5 for 37 with ten K’s) but who’s worrying?

By Lew

April 15, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

KC-Let’s leave it like this. If the predictions you posted above come vaguely close to fruition, dinner’s on me when I come to Hotlanta to visit Brother Grinch. Fair enough?

By Lew

April 15, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

MBATL speaks wisdom. That’s the point I’ve been trying to make all along about Langerhans. Give the guy a chance. This every other day bull ain’t getting it.

By KC

April 15, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Lew, sounds good to me. I’m rather fond of Ruth’s Chris. =)

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

Thorman is going to hit more homers than McGwire did in his rookie year. How’s that for optimism? I’ll put the crack pipe down now.

By The Stranger

April 15, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

choppinmama, Don Ho, Braddah Iz, Gabby…legends of an easier time.

UH Manoa ‘92 - erstwhile erudite ukulele fan

By Lew

April 15, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

KC-I’m a profound carnivore, myself and that sounds good top me.

By Lew

April 15, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

KC-We’ll even go if you turn out to be Overly Optimistic in your predictions-still on me. How’s that for fairness?

By Yars

April 15, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

I won’t be shocked if when Aybar comes back, if Kelly Johnson still has a pathetic average, we might see Aybar playing some 2B & batting leadoff.

By yellowblood

April 15, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Dave:

Thanks for remembering Marty Robbins and El Paso, one  of the greatest ballards ever performed.  Everyone should have Marty in their IPOD. Maybe Gene Pitney next time (i.e "Town of Pity")?

By N8

April 15, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Lew & KC

I’m optomistic that we are going to have an UP and DOWN year that will result in a better showing than that of last year. Will it be “enough”??

Only time, (and the competition’s results), will tell.

btw: KC “most” of your pre-season predictions on the stats, aren’t THAT far out of line. The only thing that ends up being debatable, is the starters victory totals. One can’t really EVER predict how and when a victory (or loss) comes into play, in today’s game.

Here’s my “updated” preciction on Mark Redman:

0-5 with a 17.68 ERA and a ONE WAY ticket out of Atlanta the second Cormier is ready to go.

I was on board with Redman being a reasonible pickup (a that cost), when Hampton hurt his oblique. Figured he’d give us a 4.50 - 5.50 ERA, a .500 winning percentage and a CHANCE to win some of the games (if not most) that he started. SO FAR, I couldn’t have been farther from the truth. He’s been a total waste of money, and there are 29 other GM’s giggling in the corner, because now JS knows what the rest of them knew, when NONE of them offered Redman a job. LOL!

YIKES.

By KC

April 15, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Lew: That sounds great. I look forward to it. It’ll be good to meet you in person. Though, two people this opinionated in the same room…

That’s okay… Cowboy Ribeyes have a way chillin’ me out. =)

By KC

April 15, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

N8 and Lew:

Yeah… BTW, those predictions are just for fun. Just educated guesses. I’m not pretending to know what’s going to happen, and I’m betting money on any of those numbers.

The only bet I’ve made this year on an individual performance was that Hudson would finish with an ERA under 3.75. Feelin’ pretty good about that one right now. Sorry Grinch… don’t mean to rub it in.

By Lew

April 15, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Nathan-I have a feeling (and hope it’s so) that Redman is going to be on a VERY short leash. One more start like the first two and I look to see Oscar in the rotation, at least until Cormier is back in the fold. I, too, thought it would be at least a decent pick up, but now I’m leaning towards Coach’s evaluation. The Dude has flat out been terrible. I’m much more concerned with his performance than those of Langerhans, KJ and Thorman. They’re young guys who at least have some sort of the proverbial upside-Redman is old and looks it. If he needs to be tired to be effective, then put him on a treadmill for three days between starts.

By Lew

April 15, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

KC-It’s a good bet we can both shut our mouths while stuffing our faces with prime beef. We’ll let Grinch carry the conversation. Oh, The Humanity.

By N8

April 15, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

Did I hear that correctly??

Until that 1st inning DP, the Braves had only turned TWO DOUBLE PLAYS all year???

Unreal. If I’m not mistaking, the Mets turned 4 DP’s on opening day.

Hey Shaun, still think that making contact and having speed on the bases can’t give you productive outs that lead to a run?

Base hit. Stolen Base, Groundout to SS (runner advances to 3rd - due to his speed), Run scores on a DP.

Explain to me AGAIN, how that run scores if Uggla strikes out, instead of making contact?

By MBATL

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

KC, I think your projections are a little optimistic in some cases (always did), but nothing unreasonable there. Of course, you didn’t account for the inevitable injury bug. We all know somebody is gonna get hurt, but hard to predict who it will be. So far, not so good in that regard.

Anyway, I’m assuming those were season predictions, not 10-game predictions, so we can’t judge yet whether you’re insane:).

As to Redman, I don’t think he’ll be on such a short leash. We don’t have a lot of options, and history says that Redman will pitch okay (it also says he will NOT pitch great, of course.)

We’re one injury away from a repeat of last year, with a bunch of AAA guys starting games. I think we’ll be more patient with Redman than some bloggers may be…

By Greg in TN

April 15, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Afternoon everyone…

Nothing like a little baseball a day after a soggy night in Georgia.

I have to say that I hate that Macay McBride had to go down, but he has been largely ineffective so far and with the issues we’re running into as far as run production, we can’t afford to have him working on his mechanics in the ATL.

Also sad to see Paronto having to go on the DL and I hope this isn’t a sign of things to come with him missing time here and there over the course of the year. I am very interested in seeing how Peter Moylan responds to this call up.

It’s nice seeing teams honor Jackie Robinson today. There has been some grumbling in that entire teams are wearing 42 in his honor today other than his Dodgers, but I have no problem with that myself. It’s a good way to respect the game and one of it’s greats. Now, I’d love to see the Braves get permission for everyone to wear 44 one night to honor the Hammer. Especially with ‘The Clear’ advancing on his record.

Gang, let’s hope the footing is such that no one gets injured on the wet grass of the Ted today and let’s get back on the winning track.

By N8

April 15, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Lew

“If he needs to be tired to be effective, then put him on a treadmill for three days between starts.”

LOL! Love it!

Better yet, make him walk to the park for all of his starts. Including, but not limited to, making him walk to the Braves destinations on road trips. YES, I mean, make him walk FROM ATLANTA.

I’m with you. Sucks to have to admit being wrong to Coach, but I said I would, and I’m a man of my word. The guy sucks. (Redman - NOT Coach).

Redman has NOTHING to do with our offense, (or lack thereof), but it’s not a coincidence that we are 7-3 and 2 of the losses (the UGLY ones), have been games started by him.

By We Have Mets the Enemy

April 15, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Lew was kind not to mention the patent absurdity of KC’s searching back through a month of posts to find his wildly optimistic predictions and post them yet again while his kids beg and whine for attention from their daddy.

At least Shaun deals in real numbers and not fantastic conjecture. And Shaun will never have children to neglect.

By Rosalynn

April 15, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Strike out, throw out double plah! That was some uggla plahin’ theah. I hope Chippa will hit the ball in the seats next time up.

By N8

April 15, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Yeah. That “hit and run” works REALLY well, with a strikeout at the back end, doesn’t it Shaun?

I don’t care what the numbers say. ANYTHING can happen, when contact is made. We just saw what can happen, if not.

By N8

April 15, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

DOB

I never like to be right at the expense of the Braves playing well, but that was an absolutely HORRIBLE play on a ridiculously ROUTINE play (one worked on for hours in spring training) by Wilson at first.

Who just had his A$$ saved by Chipper. WOW!

Anyways, like both you and I have stated for what seems like months, we are going to miss LaRoches glove WAY more than his bat, IMO. A major league 1B absolutely HAS to make that play in his sleep.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Yeah, ol’ Chipper really looked like a statue going to his right and leaping to stab the ball and start that double play, didn’t he?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Oh, by the way: Just saw that Betemit is now 1-for-24 with seven strikeouts for the season.

Of course, he is playing at least. More than can be said for Aybar. Then again, if Aybar was 1-for-24 the Braves _ or any team _ would probably prefer he NOT be playing, right?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

laRoche is 3-for-34 with a league-high 15 strikeouts before today.

and as I typed that, ANDRUW just struck out for the 15th time this season. Fifteen K’s in 38 at-bats for ‘Dru.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

So far Huddy doesn’t look as good on regular (four days) rest as he did in his previous two starts on five days’ rest. He didn’t want to wait and pitch tomorrow because he’s had too much rest, he told Cox.

N8, agree on missing laRoche’s glove. You just hope you don’t have a play like the routine one that Wilson just flubbed, you hope you don’t have one of those in a critical situation, either late in an important regular-season game or, if they’re fortunate enough to get there, in the postseason.

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

What’s with AJ and the hooded parka? God, it’s 48 degrees outside, not 28 … I’m hot just cleaning up the patio! I think he’s making his statement that the Angels, Dodgers, Padres or Marlins should touch base with his agent.

By N8

April 15, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

DOB

Here is kind of a weird question, that all of the Hudson supporters are gonna freak out about.

Has he been getting the “calls” on those splitters or sinkers low in the zone more than last year? And if so, could that be enough to give him a little more success than he has had in Atlanta?

I’ve noticed a LOT of people semi-complaining about the “called strikes” low in the zone, when Hudson is pitching.

a) If he’s getting those calls, he’s pitching strikes instead of “balls” (sorry for stating the obvious)

b) We all know, that if those pitches are getting called for strikes, the batters are more likely to swing at anything close to that location, later in the game, or even in the same AB. Similar to what happened to the Braves against Livian in 97. If it’s getting called, they gotta swing.

Many people used to say that when Maddux and Glavine “struggled” it was because they didn’t have the pinpoint control. If I remember correctly, they usually had control, but sometimes their success was predicated on getting that strike call six inches off the plate EARLY in the game.

EITHER WAY, Hudson looks way more confident, aggressive and IN COMMAND than he did at any time last season.

Which is a good thing.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Now that was pretty impressive, striking out Uggla and Cabrera with two on to get out of that jam.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

hoss was hopping at the right time on that double play ball - already involved in two double plays today. now, aybar may be “waiting in the weeds” for an opportunity to get some playing time. aybar’s considerable upside must be taken into consideration whenever comparisons are made of the respective players. it is a pleasure to watch young mccann play baseball. and tim hudson’s pitches are moving again today. gotta get some runs.

By brian

April 15, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

I know power hitters often have trouble in the colder weather, but Andruw seems to be pressing: pressing to hit as many homers as he can in his contract year - forget about the average or strikeout total.

By Greg in TN

April 15, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Agree with Hudson’s strikeouts in the top half of the inning. He’s having to throw a lot of pitches and his location isn’t what it was in his earlier starts.

Good break on the passed ball getting Wilson to second and another good break on Hudson drawing a walk while trying to sacrifice Wilson over to third.

Nate, good questions and I think you’re right. Maddux and Glavine both had some struggles on nights when they didn’t get the outside corner from the home plate umpire.

Nice implosion by the Fins to give us the lead and a bomb from Chipper. Very sweet.

By Rosalynn

April 15, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

I am so glad Bobba didn’t listen to that old fool and leave Chippa out of the game todah. Of course, it was nice of the Marlins to leave that boah who is pitchin’ in the game without a visit to the mound.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Let’s go back and find those brilliant posts about Chipper being a statue and not caring and all that.

So far, he’s been a real problem for the Braves. High on the list of things going wrong (I’m continually amazed sometimes at how folks won’t let statistics or statements of others closer to the situation get in the way of their own bias or unbending opinion)

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

oh, andruw is just being andruw. relax. he looks like crap for 10 games, is okay for 10 games, and then is a monster for 10 games and then he is merely okay and then he is crap and then he is a monster and so on and so on and so on. It’s just Druw. When it is all said and done he ends up with 40 or more homers and 110 or more RBIs just like every year. One of the most inconsistent consistent performers around

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

After that three-run homer (which came with the Braves ahead 2-1), Chipper is batting .300 with a team-high three homers and eight RBIs, for those who actually care about performance.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Yep, Chipper’s washed up

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

WillyWally, agreed on Andruw, as far as year-end numbers being consistent _ and I agree he’ll have 40 homers and 110 or more RBIs.

But the path to those numbers is the antithesis of consistent. He’s as streaky a big-numbers hitters as I think I’ve ever seen.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Braves have batted around in the inning, and now the sun is shining between the clouds.

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

On the other hand, good job by some Braves hitter to play to Olsen’s weakness. He’s been walking guys all year, and we took advantage (just for the bright side view of things).

A lot of talk about small ball - which we don’t have the personnel to play, for the most part - but a hit-and-run attempt (which failed), a sacrifice attempt, taking some pitches…

if only Chipper had executed a suicide squeeze with the bases juiced, this would be a perfect game.

By Tennessee gal

April 15, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Why aren’t the Braves wearing RED?, and what is #33 on sleeve? Thanks.

By Atlanta Media Man

April 15, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Wow, did Marlins catcher Miguel Olivo do a number on his own team in that third inning.

A passed ball that started the chain link disaster, two very poorly framed crucial pitches that upset his pitcher and a lazy swipe at a ball that got all the way back to the fence and cost his team a run.

Does this guy even deserve a spot on the post game buffet line?

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Chipper just showed why he is the man. I still say McCann should hit 3rd, Chipper 4th and Diaz should start EVERY day in LF. Francoeur starts every at bat 0-2. Craig Wilson was a waste too. No production from 1B.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

They aren’t wearing their Sunday red jerseys because MLB didn’t want teams using Jackie Robinson’s No. 42 on any alternate jerseys.

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Why didn’t the Braves keep Willie Harris ? He played well in ST and has speed to steal a base late in close games. Its like ST doesn’t matter to JS and BC. A guy earns a spot with his play and gets released…

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

okay, journalist did suggest a statue be erected of chipper jones complete with mizuno emblems. then, journalist suggested chipper might not be making all the plays at third base … so today’s performance is making jimmy smith feel good and bad at the same time. good- this journalist is impressed with the play of chipper jones today. and bad - journalist wishes to apologize to chipper jones in this public forum for saying chipper has a bunny glove. of course, jimmy smith never complained of chipper’s not caring - this journalist has merely suggested cheeseburgers are not an appropriate training table meal. chipper seems to hit better on cheeseburgers, though. so, journalist will allow dob to take this jouranlist to task for this journalist’s journalistic stylings. have we seen a pop-up yet at third base? and now we know why chipper is called hoss by this blog’s boss.

By Carroll

April 15, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

DOB: of course I don’t have the benefit of knowing Chipper personally, as I am neither a journalist, a hooters chick, or a terminally-ill child. So all I have to go on are his public comments which tend to be mind-bogglingly dumb sometimes. Some people just don’t have the gift of gab (otherwise known as tact) required for meaningful public speech (see e.g. President Bush). These people would be better served to keep their ridiculous comments to themselves where possible….if only that was an option for the prez.

By Rosalynn

April 15, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

Andruw CRUSHED that ball. The Joneses homer in the same game for the second time this season and 57th time overall, moving into seventh place on the all-time list, passing Dwight Evans/Jim Rice and Joe Adcock/Eddie Matthews. Joneses are the active leaders.

By MEB

April 15, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I know its cold out there but poor Jeff Francouer looks absolutely frozen at the plate. I know his swings are adding to the wind chill at the Ted.

By Brad in MT

April 15, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

I am sure glad to see the offense picking up a little bit after the last couple of games, hopefully this trend will keep up. I would also like to see Diaz in there everyday in LF he always has good at bats and puts the ball in play.

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Chipper shut jimmy journalist mouth up. Journalist not know baseball too good… Chipper also hear DB and say “Here homerun for you crying about my 3b play”. Robdawg laugh.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

oh, and you asked about No. 33 on the sleeves. They’ve worn those all year, to honor Lew Burdette and Johnny Sain, who both died in the offseason. Both wore No. 33. Their initials are on the patch.

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Wow Carroll the liberal… You attack Chipper’s personal life and the President in the same blog. You need to go to Hollywood and join the Libs that think life in America is free and doesn’t need defending by our the military and our President as Commander-In-Chief. There’s not enough time or space here for me to educate you on world matters and why your view of our President is wrong. So I’ll stick to baseball just like you should since this is a Braves blog.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

robdawg06 writes like chipper talks. journalist is contrite at this time. robdawg06 knows what that means, right? robdawg06 must also be contrite if robdawg blogs with the big boys. somewhere out there lurks the sja who handles all of jimmy smith’s light work. now, baseball … who is the best catcher on the field today?

By mr baseball

April 15, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Against a lefty pitcher, why is Johnson hitting 1st & Diaz 7th? Diaz keeps hitting one single after another with no one on base and the 8th hitter and pitcher’s spot after him. Wouldn’t it make sense to hit him at the top of the lineup, where you would have people that might actually drive him in hitting behind him?

I understand that the Braves have 7 runs already, but swapping Johnson & Diaz will help the Braves long term. The genius manager, however, won’t do it, because he has decided that Johnson is his leadoff hitter and that’s that. Kind of like he did in ‘99 with Boone hitting 2nd.

If Diaz keeps hitting at a .300+ clip, he needs to be in the lineup on a more regular basis, and Cox needs to consider giving him more of a shot hitting 1st in the order, although those of us who have followed the team over the years realize he will NEVER juggle his batting order to any serious extent.

And for those of you wondering why Redman & Davies both had their starts pushed back, it probably has something to do with the rotation next weekend against the Mets. By leaving Smoltz & Hudson where they are in the rotation & passing over Redman & Davies, Hudson, James & Smoltz will start against the Mets. I don’t have that much nice to stay about the manager, but if that had anything to do with his thought process, at least he still has some functioning brain cells. Wish he’d use them a little more when putting together a batting order.

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Jimmy, if you care to compare the accuracy and content of my blogs compared to yours then I’m game. We will let the other bloggers be the judges. You like Hulk. Hulk talk like you do.

By robdawg06

April 15, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

I agree Mr. Baseball. Diaz is on fire. Plus Cox has got McCann hitting 6th (hitting .360) getting single after single after Francoeur makes out after out. If we fans can see changes that needs to be made then why can’t Braves management ?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Well that was a sequence we’ve never seen before _ FRANCOEUR draws a bases-loaded WALK (are you kidding me?) to bring in a run, then McCann flies out with bases loaded to end the inning. Wow.

Is the world still spinning on its axis?

By parks

April 15, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

KJ’s OBS will be higher than Diaz’s at the end of the year.I Having Diaz at the bottom of the order is a good thing, It balances the order

By Lew

April 15, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

If Andruw is cold in Atlanta, let him be real glad he isn’t here in Vermont. We’ve got two inches of snow already. It started about an hour ago and is supposed to continue through Tuesday. It’s snowing at least as hard as it was at the beginning of Spring Training when it hit 32 inches. See everyone when it melts.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

robdawg06, all on the blog will aspire to reach robdawg’s lofty standards. robdawg has straightened out jimmy smith and carroll. not sure jimmy smith remembers any of robdawg’s previous posts. anyway, if robdawg wishes to match wits with this journalist, robdawg should have at it. in the meantime, since robdawg has 4 of the last 6 posts, journalist thinks no one wishes to blog with robdawg.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Mr Baseball, moving Davies and Redman back had nothing to do with next week’s rotation vs. the Mets. Hudson didn’t want to go on five days’ rest for the third consecutive time (four days is normal), so instead of pushing back the entire rotation and having Davies start today, they kept Hudson, James and Smoltz on schedule and just moved Davies and Redman, the back-of-the-rotation guys. Davies was available to pitch in bullpen today if needed.

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Man this guy Lindstrom is throwing some serious heat… the Mets gave up on him, apparently.

By Steve from OH

April 15, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

DOB, I know this is off topic, but do you have any inclination as to when the Braves’ sale will be completed?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Although it also certainly made the decision easier knowing it would allow Hudson, James and Smoltz to face the Mets. But the decision had more to do with disrupting the fewest guys, and the guys at the back of the rotation, and keeping the first three starters on schedule after the rainout.

By Sir Stealth

April 15, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Robdawg06, it might have something to do with the fact that we’re in first place, not to mention that our management style has always been steady rather than giving into the herky-jerky reactions that fans seem to like so much. Seems to have served the team well over 162 game seasons.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

Classic post from Rosalyn at 2:40.

Carroll, the best quote on the team for writers from every city, including Atlanta, is Chipper Jones. If I could tell you how many writers from the washington papers, NY papers, philly, etc, have told me since spring training began what a great quote chipper was, you’d be shocked.

Your post baffles me, really. But whatever you want to think. Like I said, you can believe me and other writers who talk to him on a regular basis, or form your opinion based on his drawl and the fact that he said a 5-0 lead in the first inning was a tall task to try and overcome the other day (which was correct, but you’d presumably rather guys not speak honestly).

Roddawg, nobody on this blog wants to hear your views on the commander in chief. No one. So drop it, please, I beg of you.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Steve, Tim Tucker wrote something about it yesterday, I believe. It needs to get done on the first day of the owners’ meetings next month, or else it’ll miss the deadline for that tax loophole and many details of the deal will have to reworked.

So I’d guess it’s a good bet it’ll get done that day, I think it’s May 18 but not certain.

By Mississippi

April 15, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Moylan is awful

By bergian

April 15, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

a story on espn about bringing baseball back to the inner cities… http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/jackie/news/story?id=2838231

By brian

April 15, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

If Chipper did not care about winning or about Atlanta, Chipper would not have renegotiated his contract!!!!!

By bergian

April 15, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

its fun to look up players stats, really it is. Did you know that as recently as 2003, Mark Redman struck out 151 in 190 innings? Perhaps he has lost say….15 MPH off his fastball? Didn’t he also pitch a complete game 2 hitter against the Red Sox in Fenway last year??? I figured with a 5.71 era last year in the AL, he would have a era around 5.00 in the DH less NL. Then again, Barry Zito after having a .3.83 ERA last year in the AL has a 8.18 in the weak NL against teams he has never pitched against. Wait til they see him a few times! Oh, guess who leads the SF Giants in strikeouts? If you guessed Russ Ortiz with 11, you are correct, need to get out more often…..

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN, and you guys are NOT GOING TO BELIEVE THIS:

Willy Aybar has been suspended for three days (through the Washington series) for violating a team rule. That’s all Braves said officially.

Here’s the background: He hasn’t shown up for two days, didn’t call anyone to tell them where he was, why he wouldn’t be here, etc.

He’s on the DL already because of his lingering hand injury, but being suspended means he won’t get paid for three days, more than likely. And it’s a disciplinary move that clearly makes a statement _ you screwed up, it won’t be tolerated, etc.

OK, I gotta get writing. I’ll get back to you later, but that’s all I know. None of the players even know what’s going on with him, why he didn’t show up, etc.

It’s believed that this is first guy they’ve suspended since John Rocker

By RonRoberts

April 15, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Great win, today. Elements weren’t with us, Hudson didn’t have his best stuff, but our big bats showed up and Huddy pitched around the shortcomings.

I’m starting to thikn this division will shake out to look alot like the NL Central did last year, now. The most complete team in that division won it, but the top tier teams beat up on each other which netted a barely-.500 winner. I don’t think the Phillies are going to fall off the surface and I do think they’ll be a factor, but I can say the same about the Marlins, too. That being said, the Braves are the closest thing to a complete team in this division until the Mets address their pitching rotation (or what they have actually proves the world wrong and becomes something formidable for more than a week).

That being said, it’s just frustrating to see Langy, Kelly Johnson and Scott Thorman struggling. Hearing Chipper Jones compare Thorman to Ryan Klesko made me cringe, since I always hated that it seemed as if Ryan was swinging for the fences every time he was up with a situation where getting the runner over would’ve sufficed.

I see Kelly Johnson coming around, and hey, if that’s the case, he won’t be any worse than what Marcus Giles was for us last year, either. The difference, this year, being that our bullpen is good enough to actually hold leads and keep deficits within reach, too (on non-Redman starts). So I can be patient with Kelly, because he’s hitting the ball hard, his OBP isn’t as ugly as, say, oh, I don’ tknow… Wilson Betemit just yet. But with Mike Gonzalez not hitting the velocities he’d hit last year, and Craig Wilson and Thorman both struggling at the dish, I’m just flat-out disappointed with first base right now. Granted, LaRoche LeSUCKS in Pittsburgh right now, but I think we’ve alllearned not to pile on him early on, ‘cause odds are he’ll catch fire and his numbers will be better than respecrable in the end.

Bottom line: we’re 8-3, with two of our losses being Redman blowouts, and the other being the inexplicable 2-0 Nationals loss that a lot of us think we lost because Bobby mis-managed the bullpen the two games before it. Things aren’t all that bad in Braves nation, and could have been even better, and truly could’ve been worse, given Hampton, Cormier, Paronto unjuries, coupled with early Chipper and Andruw struggles to go with sluggish bats on the shoulders of Kelly, Thorman and Wilson.

To heck with what the other teams do; if the Braves get 8their* guys to playing the levels they’re all fully capable of, this is the most complete team in the division. Period.

By ElbravoX

April 15, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

HOSS IS THE MAN. Can Willie Harris play second?

By ernesto

April 15, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Moylan was god-awful today, but I don’t know that he’ll stay god-awful, what I do know is his performance was a little deja vu from last year’s pen, when guy’s like Moylan were the best we had. It was nice to be able to bring in big Wick to put some sense back into things rather than say Reitsma and his extra large gas can. I love having a pen with some real stoppers!

By bergian

April 15, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

Willy Aybar must be on something to do something this stupid! Man! Perhaps Wilson Betemit is trying to get released, and Aybar as well, so they can go back to playing on their old teams again…..

By bergian

April 15, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

where is everyone??? Oh, that’s right, it’s such a beautiful day everyone is outside working on their tans, mowing the lawn, washing the car…..

By johnlaporta

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

Marty may have wrote it but the Graetful Dead made it their own.

By KC

April 15, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Tim Hudson… DAMN!!!!

Even on a day like today when he really wasn’t at his best (at least not quite as sharp as his previous 2 starts), he still shut down the league’s hottest lineup.

7 innings, 1 earned run.

Since last season ended, I’ve been saying “as Tim Hudson’s season goes this year, so go the Braves”. I still feel that way. So needless to say, I feel pretty good about this season.

By Rosalynn

April 15, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

This song is dedicated to Wila Ahbah:

*Lonela, Ah’m Mistuh Lonela,

Ah am suspended foah three dahs,

Ah am so lonela, Ah’m Mistuh Lonela,

And mah hand huhts in so manah wahs,

Now, Ah’m a ballplayuh,

a lonela ballplayuh,

Awah from home through no wish of mah own

That’s whah Ah’m lonela,

Ah’m Mistuh Lonela,

Ah wish that Ah could go back home*

By KC

April 15, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Best record in baseball at 8-3. Very good chance of going 10-3 with these next 2 against the Nats (though not a given as they proved last Thursday).

Anyone want to lay odds on how long it will take for the first “The Braves Are Back” headline to appear on a major sports publication or website.

They’re taking their time… they want to be sure, and they’re not anxious to admit their error in judgement, but by May 1st at the latest, I think you’ll start seeing some national recognition.

By KC

April 15, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

ElbravoX:

Yes, Willie Harris plays a solid 2B. He just doesn’t hit or get on base enough. I was on record though as hoping he would land the last bench job.

I don’t think Pete Orr has much of anything on him at the plate. Neither does Chris Woodward for that matter. Willie Harris can play multiple positions and he’s a legitimate base-stealing threat off the bench. I think having a guy like that can be invaluable late in close games. If you can bring a guy in to pinch run who can steal 2nd and put himself in scoring position… that’s huge.

He had a very good spring and is tearing it up at Richmond. I would really like to see them bring up Harris.

By Carolina Lady

April 15, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

KC, that headline will come shortly after the one that reads “Global Warming Ends. Hell Freezes Over!” :-)))

It doesn’t bother me that the Braves aren’t getting recognition. There will just that many more talking heads who will be dining on crow at some point in time. I’m really looking forward to seeing that!
:-))

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

any chance of trading aybar back for betemit? it seems both teams can’t stand either one

By Fred Secunda

April 15, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’ve completely lost patience with Ryan Langerhans. The guy is an automatic out every time he steps to the plate. I know he’s great defensively, but don’t you think someone like Gregor Blanco would at least bring a little more to the table than what we’re getting from Ryan? We might take a small step back defensively, but Blanco would almost surely be an upgrade offensively and on the basepaths. Does Langy have options left?

By TennesseePaul

April 15, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the updates.
Aybar is turning into a joke. I can’t believe this guy. Orr can hit .200 all he wants as long as he doesn’t act like Aybar. When is that guy eligible to come off the DL?

KJ is impressing me even more. He walks so much. He is hitting .154 right now, but has a .313 OBP. If he had 3 more hits his OBP would be .375 and his batting average .231. If he were hitting .280 right now his OBP would be .417. Once these balls start dropping in he is going to be the a very capable leadoff hitter. And then there is the stand up defense. All for about 3 to 5 million less than Giles.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

The magic number is 151.

By Patrick

April 15, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

I agree with Fred about Langerhans. He strikes out way too much.

With Brandon Jones having as good of a spring as he did and if he keeps up his hot hitting in the minors, any chance the Braves bring him up DOB??

By Robert

April 15, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this

Carolina lady sai ,”PhillyGirl, y’all should just hire Robot Robert. He’s much smarter than Bobby Cox”

EVERY blogger here is much smarter than Bobby Cox (even you). Being smarter than Cox is not a job qualification by any means

By KC

April 15, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady: Yeah… It’ll always be Mets headlines and Braves cliffnotes.

In the words of Bruce Hornsby… That’s just the way it is. Some things will never change.

I’m still having a good laugh at Dayn Perry’s expense. Heading into the weekend, he posted his “Good For Starters” headline story about how the Mets rotation was going to be a strength for them.

But over their last 5 games, the Mets starters have an ERA of 6.00. They’ve given the Mets 24 innings (an average of 4.8 innings a start), in which they’ve allowed 47 hits/walks.

I don’t think their rotation will be awful, but a “strength” is wishful thinking on the part of Dayn Perry who is a painfully obvious Mets fan.

The Mets lost a few significant pieces out of that great bullpen from last year. And while I think they’ll be just fine at the end of a game… they don’t have the same depth of relief they had last year that allowed the bullpen to do part of the starter’s job for them. These last 5 games, their bullpen has had to log better than 4 innings per contest.

That kind of wear and tear on their pen is going to show late in the season.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

“I remember taking a “strike” that was obviously low and away, I argued … “Coach, that was a ball” … “Yes, but you should have killed it! 6 Laps, 1 for taking the pitch, 5 for arguing balls and strikes”.

Holy cow. If they instituted that policy in Atlanta, Cox would have to run a marathon every inning. He spends half of every game with his tail twitching, hooves clomping, and face turning various shades of red fuming about balls and strikes

By Perry Dayn

April 15, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

KC, I told you not to talk about me. Just for that, I will not even mention the Braves at all this week in my articles. Happy?

By Robert

April 15, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

“Willy Aybar has been suspended for three days (through the Washington series) for violating a team rule. That’s all Braves said officially.”

Three day suspension. Musta been a serious violation. What did he do, try to wear sunglasses on his cap during BP?

By Sir Stealth

April 15, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Robot, I hope for your sake that you’re not as much of a joke in the rest of your life as you are on this blog.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

No, Langy has no options left. And neither does Aybar.

Good, one, Robot. You’re repeating the same stale, unfunny jokes about Cox while other fans are asking genuine questions and making pertinent observations about how the team with the best record in baseball can stay atop the NL East.

Good thing you’re so honed in on the important stuff, like how can you find a different way to be critical of the mortal-lock certain future Hall of Fame manager. By the way, do you actually watch any baseball games?

By AdirondackDave

April 15, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

To me, Smoltz, Hudson, and James are looking a whole lot like Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine.

On another note, trading Aybar back for Betemit would probably benefit both teams and both players. Stranger things have happened.

By Bob, journalist

April 15, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

N8, Redman has NOTHING to do with our offense … are you sure?

David O’B, to posit that Chipper is an important member of the team doesn’t require much insight or objectivity … his capable of playing an adequate third base and excelling at the plate … but there are times when his play and attitude seem to bespeak that which is opined by his critics.

Most of my relatives and many of my friends who belong to the 3 digit club speak with a southern drawl … some as pronounced as the blog’s Miss Rosalynn persona. I can’t hold with the notion that Chipper’s manner of speaking has that much to do with how he is perceived.

Jimmy Smith, I honestly didn’t know that Don had died until I saw your post. I knew of his heart problems but was so taken aback that I checked the Internet, including his web site … found nothing … and assumed that I must have missed the beginning and essence of some thread.

I think I may have mentioned that we first met him in 1968, inviting him to our home in 1969 … saw him and his show several times in Las Vegas and in three times in Hawaii … best known for tiny bubbles … not the song, his personality! I always enjoyed seeing him but was never really comfortable at his shows … where you could always count on being involved.

By AdirondackDave

April 15, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this

To me, Smoltz, Hudson, and James are looking a whole lot like Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine.

On another note, trading Aybar back for Betemit would probably benefit both teams and both players. Stranger things have happened.

By MEB

April 15, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

DOB… what is normally expected out of guys that are on the DL? Do they have to show at the same time and do they have to wear uniforms? I always thought that they went to work like everyone else on the team unless their injuries prevented it. For example a guy with a bad back wouldn’t be expected to sit on the bench on a cold and wet day like today. Guys like Sturtze and Cormier are probably on the bench sittin’ and spittin’ with the boys wondering where ol’ Willy is at.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

Yes I watch baseball games.

And when I watch Braves games, I see a manager do and say things that are just unfathomable in their stupidity.

As a real baseball fan, who loves the game for its beauty and purity, you can not even begin to imagine how it saddens me to think that Cox is going to be so much as CONSIDERED for the HOF. That’s like spitting in the face of the game

In my book, if you were to line up every person who ever had anything to do with the game of baseball in order, based on their merits for election to the HOF, Bobby Cox would be tenth from the end of the line, ahead of only Pete Rose and excommunicated Black Sox

By jed

April 15, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

DOB—nice move cutting robdawg off at the pass. i will bite my tongue and say only that it’s BASEBALL here, friends. politics are way too volatile—especially of late. any adult should understand and respect that.

moving on…i’m betting aybar is traded as soon as they can move him for comparable talent. that writing’s on the wall. i expect JS to handle it like he did rocker—he’ll wait to get a good deal, but as soon as he does, he’ll pull the trigger. what’s aybar’s problem? is he drinking? drugging? that’s kinda what it sounds like, so if not, maybe you could clue us in when you find that out…

By Fred Secunda

April 15, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Brandon Jones is hitting .415 at AA-Greenville with a homer and three stolen bases. If he continues to rake, I wonder if he’d be able to make a Francoeur-like jump to the majors?

Also, if Langerhans is still lying in the weeds in a month, I bet the Braves can send him to AAA without him being claimed on waivers from someone else. They’ve simply got to get more production out of left field if they don’t give the job to Diaz full time, which it looks like they aren’t.

By MEB

April 15, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

Forecast for Washington D.C. tomorrow night:

Windy… Cloudy with rain and snow showers. Low 36F. Winds NW at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of precip 30%.

Don’t forget to pack your long handles!

By AWOLLY AYBAR, formerly known as Will He Aybar?

April 15, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

Well, it seems even Mariano Rivera can blow saves by giving up a three run walkoff homer every once in a while.

What the heck is Aybar’s deal? The Dodgers were not too enamored with him. He has visa issues. He is injured. He tells Bobby he can play a game during spring training and then he counters that mid-game and asks out of the game, which from the quotes posted here seemed to tick Cox off. Then he goes AWOL.

Are the Braves really saving money by having traded for him? It seems to have Aybar on your roster instead of Betemit means that you have to waste money bringing in a Woodward to play backup short and having another guy who earns hundreds of thousands of dollars up in the majors while Aybar is on the DL and while he goes AWOL. Looks like whatever money may have been saved by trading Betemit for Aybar has been squandered because of the resultant moves that have to be made to accommodate this little malcontent.

All this drama for a slap hitting utility infielder? Not worth it.

By Steve from OH

April 15, 2007 7:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for your answer. I gotta say, this blog is a breath of fresh air up here in Toledo, where the only baseball talk is a bunch of geezers whining about the Indians…

By Lew

April 15, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

Ma’am-I don’t know if hell is freezing over or not, but Vermont would be glad to donate plenty of snow to aid the effort.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Langerhans will not pass through waivers without being claimed. I’m no expert. I’m just a layman fan but I would think that he has enough tools that some team would gladly take him off of our hands. I think Langerhans is fine as a fourth of fifth outfielder. Diaz should be starting everyday.

By ERC

April 15, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

I can care less if a team claims him. We don’t need Langerhans because Blanco is as good or even better OF going by what Eddie Perez said in an article during spring training. He’s also a better hitter, baserunning threat, and cheaper.

Langerhans only has more power but that doesn’t matter when you strike out so much like Langerhans.

By Carolina Lady

April 15, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

Lew, bless your heart, you have really had it with the snow this year! If y’all could just find some way to keep it ‘til July or so, you could line your pockets well by shipping it South! :-))

By Coach

April 15, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Huddy was awesome , as expected. He couldn’t throw as many splitters as he did in his first two starts due to the cold but was still effective with his sinker and slider. I had to laugh when he mixed in a few curve balls after he got that big third inning lead. Best record in baseball , still in first and for a whole week now ! Diaz is winning the left field battle over Langerhans , again , no surprise there. Johnson has been ineffective with the bat but solid with the leather and so far it hasn’t hurt the offense. I was not happy with Andruw in the third , swinging away against Olson , even though the guy(Olson) could not find the strike zone and then he hit that bomb in the fifth to make up for it. Chipper , you are the man ! It looks like Francouer still can’t lay off that first pitch , will he ever learn ? Moylan stunk it up didn’t he ? Good thing the other five guys in the pen are getting it done. 8-3 and on cruise control , I love it !

By steve

April 15, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

What a worthless article. This is not up to your usual standards.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Frenchy has 3 walks and a HBP through the first 11 games which ain’t great but for him is outstanding.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Langy _ 2-for-20 with nine strikeouts. Yikes, indeed.

By the way, Blanco is hitting like crazy, but the Braves want him to spend more time in the minors, I’m pretty sure.

Escobar’s hitting up a storm, and Salty’s off to a good start. Brandon Jones, Lillibridge _ just about all the top position prospects are hitting well.

By ncscoots

April 15, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Do those of you with a man-crush on Diaz ever actually watch any of his AB? The guy takes at least two absolutely horrible swings in most of them. Do you not think that 500 AB will expose every flaw?

Hey, I like the guy, but I just think that he has little chance of excelling if he plays every day.

By Efrim

April 15, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

KC-

I’m holding judgement until the end of April, but the Braves look great. Before the Nats loss Thursday, you said they will have a 19-7 April. I disagree, but I think they will have a 17-9 April which is still amazing. It was very important for the Braves to get off to a good start for confidence reasons, and they have. Hampton injury bothers me, but I am hoping Davies, James, and Cormier pitch well. Gonzalez has yet to impress me, but I think he will begin to pitch well. Left Field and 1st base worry me, but I think Kelly Johnson is a beast, and will raise his average to .275 with a OBP of .380 along with 18-20 home runs this season. All and all, I think this team is making the playoffs, but I think the Mets are as well. We will see who wins the division, I hope its the Braves….

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Hey, Steve: Whatever.

By ernesto

April 15, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

Two comments from today’s broadcast

“Of course this isn’t the first time Hudson’s gotten off to a good start here in Atlanta…”

And while that’s true, this really seems like a diff’t Huddy this year. He’s getting really good movement, and just seems like he’s got more stuff. I still wish he had a better out pitch, but he just looks the best he’s ever looked since he’s been in the ATL.

“…and that’s why the Braves aren’t in their traditional sunday red uniform….”

Traditional sunday red???? Yarghhh! Since when is one year+ a tradition? God, those things are fugly.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

Bob, journlist wrote: But there are times when his play and attitude seem to bespeak that which is opined by his critics.

Let’s see, did his .324 average with 24 homers and 1.005 OPS last year in 110 games bespeak it, or perhaps his stints on the DL for knee, ankle and oblique injuries did (maybe he should have just played through those?)

Or was it renegotating his contract so that the Braves could try to re-sign Furcal and a closer, did that bespeak it?

Or maybe his eight consecutive 100-RBI seasons, or his .293 average, three homers and .957 OPS in 11 games this season?

Oh, that’s right, he made a lighthearted comment about not using a trainer anymore after going on the DL three times, and some were offended that he’d be so brazen as to say he eats McDonald’s and sweets every day (as if that’s actually true. if you look at him you’ll see he’s in as good or better shape than he was a year ago).

But hey, I can see where you and others would be turned off by his attitude. Sure, I can see that.

Let me know what exactly bespeaks that to which you refer.

By ernesto

April 15, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this

DOB - First - Big props on the best blog I’ve ever seen, plus the consistently good writing.

But why do you always respond to the negative posts? There will be 10 positive things, and 3 queries and one negative thing and you’re usually on that one thing like tacky on a trailer home.

Easy brah, there’s so much good stuff on here, why take the bait?

By Robert

April 15, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

“but there are times when his play and attitude seem to bespeak that which is opined by his critics.”

His comment the other day about a 5-0 lead being too big - stuff like that. And I can understand what Chipper meant by the comment, but it comes across wrong. It comes across as “5-0, heck, what’s the point of trying tio come back, it’s time to give up”

Of course, coming back from a 5-0 deficit requires a 5 run home run, which is difficult to do, so I guess Chipper was right

Donkball 101

By cricket

April 15, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

DOB:I never post here but read this great blog frequently every day. I am sure I am talking for many others when I request you to follow your own advice from some time back and stop replying to Robert. Just ignore the idiot and may be, just may be (well, I really don’t have high hopes..) nearly one third the space on the blog will not be wasted on his compulsive psychobabble. BTW, it was really heartwarming to see Jeff take a bases-loaded walk. One can really see he is trying to alter his approach based on the situation - taking next step to possible greatness.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 15, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

DOB, if Langerhans continues to struggle would the Braves simply bench him and play Diaz everyday or would they call up Blanco, Bohn, or Brandon Jones?

By Yars

April 15, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Regarding the Aybar situation, when he is ready to begin playing rehab games, have him rehab in Rome & just keep him there for the rest of the season. Orr/Woodward as infield reserves for this season isn’t that bad. Orr can surprise us at times at the plate. I don’t think the Braves expect much out of Woodward. Perhaps they like his experience & being worthy enough as to being a starting player at one point in his career. I’m glad Bobby still has all the faith in Kelly Johnson’s defense & is leaving him out there even in the late innings. The only negative KJ has right now is his pathetic average. He’s hitting the ball hard and rarely striking out.

By flange1

April 15, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

DOB,

You think with all of the crap that Aybar has pulled this year that the Braves will consider releasing him?

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Yars, Aybar is out of options, isn’t he? So, I don’t think they could leave him down there.

But as for your other point, maybe DOB can answer this because I never thought of it, but how do rehab stints in the minors get effectuated if a guy is out of options?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Flange, it’d be difficult, probably, for them to release him. They’d have nothing in return for Betemit at that point. As Schuerholz indicated to me tonight, they don’t think he’s a bad guy.

By Alan

April 15, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

I just skipped right over a Robot post a few seconds ago. It was awesome. Like turning off Fox news when a particularly bombastic fool starts braying. I highly recommend this easy method of improving your total blog experience. Aaah the power of the mouse scroll button.

DOB, thanks for a great blog. I don’t post a lot but I read every day…

Go Braves!

By brian

April 15, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

the better our prospects hit the more pressure that has to put on LF, 2B, and 1B. The Braves starters probably have until the end of May to prove themselves. The Braves then have many choices. If neither Thorman nor Wilson are hitting that is the biggest problem and either we will see Diaz playing at 1B (assuming he keeps hitting) with Brandon Jones or Blanco called up to give it a shot in LF or another prospect thrown in at 1B (Salty, Escobar, ??? though I doubt the Braves would want them to try and break into the majors with a position change).

Where is Lillebridge currently? If he and Prado tear it up in the minors, Kelly Johnson will have to start looking over his shoulder.

By the way, where did Elvis Andrus get placed this year?

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

I have no idea what’s up with Aybar - never heard of a “sore hand” keeping a guy out of action so long, and now he’s apparently MIA.

BUT… the guy is still just 24, plays 3B, and knows how to hit.

Scheurholz said “I don’t think you can say that because the guy got suspended he’s not a good guy.” I’m sure he’s holding back a little with that kind of charitable comment, but that’s exactly the attitude that the Braves should take with him.

Nothing to be gained by giving up on him (unless he’s just hopeless), and the upside is still there if we can get him on track. For all our middle infield depth, we still don’t have a real good option at 3B if Chipper should go down.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

“I just skipped right over a Robot post a few seconds ago. It was awesome.”

Burying your head in the sand remains legal, as does stupidity

Carry the joke as far as y’all want. Just please dont defile the Hall of Fame

By 3trees

April 15, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Evening all. I seem to remember someone saying that he had a friend in LA and this guy said that Aybar was a headcase. Unfortunately, it seems to be pointing in that direction (hope not). What’s the rule on suspensions, can a team bring up someone on the 40 man to replace? I’d guess no. More importantly, if this continues, who’s our backup @ third? Great start to the season, even with the ever present questions. Really glad to hear the young cats at the lower levels are having good seasons so far. We’ll need ‘em soon enough. When they get to DC, maybe they make a snowman in left and put on a Braves tophat on his head, he can hit and field until the weather warms up. =)

Go Braves!

By bergian

April 15, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

I think folks like Chipper that try to play thru leg injures, end up disliked by some fans. Doesn’t matter that running full out will tear the hamstring to pieces, or damage the knee more, dammit, they are paid millions! Run full speed or you are a loser forever!

By bergian

April 15, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

Tampa Bay beat Santana at home for his first home loss in 25 starts, now they won again, this time against Joe Nathan! Marlins vs Devil Rays in the W.S! You heard it here, first ;)

Perhaps in 2008 or 09……

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 15, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

That just goes to show how many of you are nothing more than self-righteous hypocrites—you put me done for my ‘gutter posts’, but at the same time you think it’s so damn comical and cute to refer to Robert as “Robot”, which originated from one of my ‘gutter posts’, it seems as though your highbrow attitudes appear to be very selective, and one of timely convenience…

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

3Trees, if something were to happen to Chipper (a DL injury) and Aybar still wasn’t ready to play, I don’t think it’d outside the realm of possibility that we’d see Escobar. Because if it’s a two- or three-week thing, they’d want real production from his replacement, not Orr or Woodward and probably not Prado. Escobar would be the logical guy provided he’s doing anything in the minors.

Of course, the Braves’ hope is they want have to make that decision. They can go with what they’ve got now as long as Chipper isn’t out for an extended period.

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

MBATL, you hit the nail on the head at 9:12.

By choppinmama

April 15, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Spike, Stranger (Sacred Hearts Academy, nobody’s business what year!) and journalist Bob: I’m happy others out there have experienced and appreciated the Don Ho years in Hono. It hurts my soul to travel to Oahu these days.

journalist jj:no can do ukulele repair, just get a new one from Hilo Hattie’s. Did you see Jones #42 pound one into his big toe at the plate today? I immediately thought of you. All together now: Oh, the humanity…….. That piggie will be oinkin’ for a few days. Sore shoulder, sore toe - is there a day off in his future?

Had a tug on the ol’ heartstrings today watching that former Braves double-play duo leading off for the Cubs and Dodgers today. Furcal is as speedy as ever, and…. yes, poor Gilly, you ARE a/the lead-off guy.

Can you just imagine how cool it must be for Marcus and Brian to be together playing in their hometown for their hometown team and batting next to each other in the line-up? Just awesomely cool!

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Brian, Escobar is absolutely, positively not going to play 1B. No way. No consideration given to that whatsoever.

And Salty still isn’t playing there, so don’t expect to see him there in the middle of the major league season. Not without getting used to the position first in the minors.

The Braves have a proven veteran (Wilson) who is off to a slow start. Big deal. It’s 11 games. They’re not even remotely near the point of alarm over Wilson. They’re paying him $2 mill a year and he’s going to play.

By JasonInMaine

April 15, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I read your post saying you think that they want Blanco to get more time in the minors, but do you think there is any chance they would bring him up, or as someone else asked, bring up B. Jones ala Francoeur last year? While he may not quite be Langerhans, doesn’t Blanco have a reputation of being very good defensively as well? Thanks for your time.

Regards,

Jason

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout this Dodger game, with everyone wearing No. 42 for L.A. and no names on the jerseys. How’d you like to be the scorekeeper in that game?

Just listened to Jackie’s widow (very impressive lady) and Hank sitting in with Morgan and Miller. Good stuff. Now can go watch Sopranos and Entourage on DVR….

Ernesto, thanks for the post. And I only jump on the negatives when I’m feeling that itch. Can’t always suffer fools so easily in this life, you know?

By David O'Brien

April 15, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

WillyWally, how do they get “effectuated?”

Rehab stints have nothing to do with options; there’s no relationship between the two. Some teams cheat and tell a guy to say he’s hurt if they want to keep him down longer after he’s recovered, but for the most part teams follow the spirit of the rule and don’t try to abuse the system. For the most part, I repeat.

When a guy’s healthy, he’s got to be activated and brought back or optioned to the minors, or if he’s out of options he’s got to go through waivers before he can be assigned to a minor league team after he’s off the DL.

By choppinmama

April 15, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Rosalynn @ 10:06 am, 12:07 pm and 2:40 pm - brilliant!

Don’t you thing youah boah, Chippa looks like one of youah billa goats back on the farm in Plains with those chin whiskahs?

By choppinmama

April 15, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

OK, someone please explain this ESPN commercial to me……

it’s the one in the hallway with baseball player(David?)Wright talking behind his glove with 2 ESPN reporters talking behind their hand and clipboard about where they’re going to meet, trying to keep the info secret from some weird persona that looks vaguely like Mr. Potato Head.

Who is that weird thing supposed to be?

By MBATL

April 15, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Pretty good article in the NY Times about one-time Brave Ron Wright - seems like a pretty cool guy who was glad to play 1 game in the majors… even though he made 6 outs in 3 abs (a triple play, a double play, and a strikeout!).

By JasonInMaine

April 15, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

I was disappointed in the Sopranos last week…I didn’t like the scene of Tony getting the snot beat out of him by Bobby.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

“Who is that weird thing supposed to be?”

I thought it was the Wake Forest Deamon Deacon mascot.

By Mad Mike

April 15, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

Been a while…almost forgot how this blog thing works.

Speaking of ESPN, does it seem to anybody else like ESPN loves to pick on the Braves? Specifically, it seems like any time they’re showing footage of some pitcher being discussed in a segment, it’s almost always footage of said pitcher striking out some Braves player. Maybe it’s just me…but watch for it y’all. Seriously.

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks for clearing that up for me DOB.

By MEB

April 15, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

choppinmama… the odd looking mascot is the Demon Deacon from Wake Forest University. I’ll agree that it is one of ESPN’s weaker efforts at humor using the collegiate mascots.

By Robert

April 15, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

“it seems as though your highbrow attitudes appear to be very selective, and one of timely convenience”

Almsot as selective as the memory of anyone who wants to espouse Cox for the Hall of Fame

I can tell you this. The WORST most ridiculed contestants on American Idol tryouts are far far far better as singers than Bobby Cox is as a baseball manager.

It is sickening to watch a $100 million-plus franchise’s fortunes being placed in the hands of a moron

The greatest waste in the history of sports.

The reason I cant get over it, and keep posting about it is that it is so wasteful - it’s vulgar, it’s obscene, it is offensive to taste

It’s like going to the Louvre and taking a dump on the Mona Lisa

By Robert

April 15, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

“They’re not even remotely near the point of alarm over Wilson”

Based on previous experience with guys like Kolb, Reitsma, Giles, and Hampton (just to name a few), I would suggest that if one waits until Cox is concerned about an issue, then by that point, considerable irreperable damage will already have been done

Maybe, just maybe, someone might wanna look into possible solutions or alternatives to the Wilson plan BEFORE Cox decides there’s something to woryy about

Cox is the kind of guy, who, when the damage surveyors are finished and the insurance companies are writing checks, decides it’s time to issue a storm warning

By choppinmama

April 15, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

MadMike and MEB: Thanks, guys……I had no clue. I’ll give it a 7 - only because of the talking behind the glove part.

I remember when Baseball Tonight covered the Glavine/Smoltz match-up, they showed a shot of Glavine’s fist pump while they talked about the game. Hey, didn’t ol’ Glav actually LOSE that game? Something like that, MadMike?

By Willy Wally

April 15, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

It’s like going to the Louvre and taking a dump on the Mona Lisa

With the reality being that you would be the only one taking a dump on the Mona Lisa, while the rest of appreciated the Mona Lisa.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 15, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

here’s a question:

let’s say that, after this year, andruw signs with the dodgers, while chipper stays with the braves. when the braves play the dodgers, if both andruw and chipper homer in that game, would that count toward their record?

By Mad Mike

April 15, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

Yeah that kind of thing, choppinmama. And just keep it in mind during Sportscenter when a pitcher is being discussed…the not-so-subtle video bit of another Bravo K.

I wouldn’t mind it so much except it’s a national sports news telecast. And ESPN is non-biased, right? How far is Bristol, Connecticut from Flushing, NY anyway? And could John Kruk hate the Braves anymore? I’ve actually almost completely stopped watching ESPN.

By vwburt

April 15, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

the braves has big problems at first base and left field. diaz is a good major league player. he can play left field better than anyone they can trade for. as for first base, john s. had better get on his horse and find somebody quick if the braves stays in the hunt to win the east.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 15, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

somehow this journalist missed the near-toe-injury to andruw jones. let us hope that the toe is not badly damaged. the importance of toe caps cannot be over-emphasized in baseball. this journalist can remember going to the don ho show and, afterward, riding in a horse drawn carriage through the streets of honolulu. after the show and the ride, journalist and journalist’s lovely wife crossed from a nice little bar over to the hyatt and received a reprimand from one of honolulu’s finest who asked to see this journalist’s drivers license and proceeded to write … oh, the humanity! luckily, it was only a “public relations contact” (warning) and this journalist was not incarcerated for crossing the street in the middle of the block. don ho was not feeling well that night and did not put much into don ho’s performance. there was another show close-by with al harrington, the hawaii 5-0 actor. good times in hawaii and lots of ukuleles for sale all over the islands. hilo hattie’s is famous, right? grinch has a martin that needs repair. can a bird house builder fix ukuleles? and now, it is getting late …

By Mad Mike

April 15, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

Daybed: why would that count? The stat is for teammates that homer in the same game.

Let’s just hope your scenario can somehow be avoided…just can’t envision Andruw wearing another team’s jersey. Nor can I see one player consuming 25% of our payroll. Even if it is the greatest center fielder ever.

By gotigers72

April 16, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

I got cold chills when Hank Aaron threw out the 1st pitch at the Dodger game tonight. Hard to believe time has flown by the way it has. I remember going to Braves games as a young man and watching the Hammer play, and being absolutely amazed at how graceful he was. Watching him run in the outfield and on the bases was pure pleasure. Seeing a HOFer in his prime like that was some electric stuff. I can remember having a hard time sleeping the night before a game just thinking about watching Hank, Eddie Mathews, Rico Carty etc., play. Not only was Hank graceful in his physical skills, but graceful as a human being too.

I also got chill bumps when Marcus came to bat. I am a big Marcus fan, and really miss seeing him play. Glad to see he’s off to a good start. I thumb my nose at those of you who thought his skills would continue to deteriorate. It was good to hear a Hall of Fame second baseman, Joe Morgan, talk about how much he likes Marcus as a player. Not only talked about his skills, but said he had good instincts and plays the game the way it’s supposed to be played. That is coming from somebody who was a HOF MLB player. In other words, someone that knows what he’s talking about, as opposed to some of you on this board that consistently blasted him last year. The same people DOB is now giving the business to for not knowing what they are talking about with Chipper. It amazes me that so many people on here that profess to love baseball have absolutely no idea about the game or its’ players.

By David O'Brien

April 16, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

Gotigers, I agree with the sentiment, for the most part.

At this stage of their careers, I’d judge it this way:

Marcus Giles _ good to very good player; had a couple of great seasons (2003, ‘05) and one very good season (2004). I’ll reserve judgment beyond that, see how he does these next few seasons.

Chipper Jones _ great player, couple of injury-plagued but still productive seasons, likely Hall of Famer if he has 2-3 more productive seasons. Possible HOF if career ended today.

By David O'Brien

April 16, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

And just for those who might look for a comparison, look at Chipper’s numbers compared to Jim Rice _ not far behind Rice in homers and RBIs right now, a little higher in average (Rice was .298), about 50 points higher in OBP, and about 40 points higher in slugging.

And Chipper’s a switch-hitter with a better relationship with the media than Rice had (and we know that does influence some votes).

Plus, Chipper will pass him by significant margin in homers and equal him in RBIs if he has 2-3 more productive years.

And I know Rice isn’t in the Hall, but he’s gotten close and should be _ and would be, I’m certain, if so many writers didn’t let personal feelings affect their voting.

Don’t even know how I got off on this rant. Sorry about that.

By David O'Brien

April 16, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

While on the subject:

Andruw Jones _ Barring major injury, a lock for the Hall of Fame after another productive 3-4 seasons, by which point he’ll have close to 500 homers and 13-14 Gold Gloves _ and only be about 33 years old!

His average won’t keep him out of the Hall, not with those gaudy power numbers and a rep as one of the greatest defensive outfielders to ever play the game.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 16, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

MadMike, that was a tongue-in-cheek post, though i’ll admit it didn’t really look like one.

By Mad Mike

April 16, 2007 12:45 AM | Link to this

Hey DOB: looks like it may be just me and you kid. Let me ask you this: are we pretty much stuck with the 1B platoon situation for the season? I mean, if