Braves

By Micah

April 18, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

“Our destiny is to be one with the leotard”

Go Braves!

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Glad to have you back DOB! Thanks for the informative post.

By N8

April 18, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

I’ve decided to write a novel, to please my fans. I have two working titles:

“Blog, Blog, till you Drop” or “My Keyboard’s on FIRE!”

Lew, are you interested in co-authoring it with me?

Nice job on the trend “numbers” DOB.

YIKES!

I guess my saving grace in the 9-4 start, is that Redman has started 2 of the 4 losses. I’m hoping that as long as Davies keeps up the good work, and Cormier returns soon, the weakest link in the rotation, will soon be a distant memory. Unfortunately, for that to happen (Bobby to replace Redman with Cormier), Redman is gonna have to stink up the joint AT LEAST 2 more times, IMO. Which means we’ll have a couple more blowout losses in the meantime, while waiting.

Is it WRONG to hope for Redman to fail, so Cormier is inserted in the rotation?

I guess we’ll find out how we “handle” the loveable losers this series.

I

By ncscoots

April 18, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Good grief…I knew it seemed as if there was an opposing lefty on the mound every night, but 174 AB already??? And at least a couple more lefties on tap this week, right? Man…I’ll bet Chipper’s righty swing has never been locked in this early. If this keeps up, heck, Diaz might get 500 AB in the platoon, LOL.

By Rodger

April 18, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

DOB-are you suggesting then, if the girls aren’t going to win, they should take off the leotards out there? Works for me…

By 22oz

April 18, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Ok, whats the deal with Tanyon Sturtze? Seriously does anyone know?

By MGL

April 18, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

I have this frightening mental picture of Bob Wickman in his leotard getting into his game mood.

By Jim

April 18, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if tonight’s game is on WGN (cable station from Chicago). By circumstance or design TBS seems to have scheduled the bulk of its dwindling number of Braves Telecasts on nights when Redman is pitching.

By Renegator

April 18, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

DOB,

How many at bats do you give these guys struggling with the bats (Thorman, Wilson, Langy) before you decide to make a change? Is it 50 ABs, 100 ABS, a full month? Do you have any insight?

By KC

April 18, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

How the hell are the Mets 1st in team ERA?? I don’t get it. Oh well… that won’t last.

Rhe Braves are 6th in ERA, with a 3.48 team mark. But the Braves non-Mark-Redman ERA is 2.75.

By GeorgetownKid

April 18, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

I know that it is much too early to start talking about roster moves and demotions (unless you’re a lefty reliever who can’t throw strikes).

But, should we desire it, can we send Langerhans to Richmond without clearing him through waivers? Or is he out of options?

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

The early bird eats the worm but the early bird eats alone.

By JasonInMaine

April 18, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

DOB, I think you should be anointed as the King Of The Blogosphere. Ms. Carrol does mighty fine work in your absence, but it isn’t the same as having the King around. And before any of you homers say anything, no I am not kissing a&&. Just calling it as I see it…love DOB’s blogs.

Do you think there is a chance that the Braves would call up Blanco if he continues to hit and get on base like he has? What about B. Jones? Probably not this early, but is there a chance that he is this year’s rendition of the Frenchy 05 call up?

Regards,

Jason

By caveman22

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

DOB Welcome back to Over-analyzer’s Anonymous

By tiger7_88

April 18, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

I know there aren’t any trades forthcoming soon, DO’B, but I’d like to posit this one for you: one of either Diaz/Langerhans plus a quality minor league infielder or pitcher to the Brewers for Gabe Gross. No, I haven’t heard rumor one to support this this year, I’m just pulling it out of the blue since Gross’s name was bandied around last year (or the year before?). Gross has a steady stick (usually hits around .280 to .300), has a little power, and plays good defense. Yet the Brewers see him as their fourth outfielder. Last year Gross got around 200 AB and if you projected his stats to a full season he would have hit 20+ HR and had 90 RBI.

So here’s my recommendation of the day for John Schuerholz: if they want Gross as a backup outfielder, try to offer Milwaukee another backup outfielder and a quality minor-leaguer from a position where we have depth and see if they’ll bite. Then plug in Gross in the Brave’s outfield and watch him produce.

Dang, I oughta be a baseball GM! ;-)

By JasonInMaine

April 18, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

KC, I think all Braves team pitching statistics need an asterisk beside them and should be duly listed on all sites with the non-Redman stats!!

Regards,

Jason

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Is it WRONG to hope for Redman to fail
Fascinating question. We can break it up…
Part 1: Is it wrong to hope. I would say no. You should always hope. Hope is what keeps a man alive.
Part 2: for Redman to fail. Isn’t this stating an obvious fact? All it takes for Redman to fail is him getting out of bed in the morning. You have no need for hope in this situation. It is just going to happen.
I think your hope would be better fixated on the Braves over coming a Redman failure. We don’t have to lose the game. We just have to make sure we come back with a vengence after Redman’s inevitable failure.

By Jim

April 18, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Team ERA after 2 weeks of the season means very little. Take away the ERA of Redman and McBride and the Braves’ ERA would look alot better. Conversely one bad inning has inflated Soriano’s ERA and does not indicate how effective he has been. When Smoltz first started closing there was one horrible early outing against the Mets that inflated his ERA for much of the year and did not really represent how effective he was.

By MGL

April 18, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Jim, WGN home page shows Bulls game tonight and Braves/Cubs tomorrow night. However, check your local listing as the WGNSAT in Central Fl is not showing the game.

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

Georgetown Kid, yes, Langerhans is OUT of options. Can’t be sent down without first clearing waivers.

Jason, thanks.

Regarding B Jones _ too early, I’d say. And when they called up Frenchy, it was absolute emergency because the old guys (Jordan and Mondesi, were hurt and/or unproductive). Not the case now, at least not to nearly that degree.

By Lee

April 18, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

DOB - If Langerhans, Thorman and Wilson continue this torrid hitting pace, it certainly would not hurt my feelings if the Braves were one of the first teams to make a trade this season. I understand Wilson’s past history speaks for itself and he should come around but Langerhans and Thorman so far……………………. Good Grief…….

But I will not complain with a 9 and 4 record.

By Renegator

April 18, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Dayn Perry has his new power rankings out and he has the Braves at 5th. Of course, they are still behind the Mets. And the Diamond Backs.

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

How the hell are the Mets 1st in team ERA

I think this stems from three things KC: They have been facing an overall weaker offense in the early goings of the season. Most every team has been struggling offensively in the NL. So that should help. Secondly, they don’t have Redman. And lastly, they don’t have to face themselves. Their offense is pretty frickin good..

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Oh, and regarding STURTZE: making progress, threw a bullpen last week, etc. Braves said all along they wouldn’t have him before May, probably late May, and right now I’d guess it’ll be late May early-June before he’s ready to pitch in the majors. But that’s a guesstimate. They won’t say a timetable.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 18, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, DOB.

Two questions:

1. Is it a coincidence that your days off just happened to fall on the days of a road trip to RFK? I seem to remember you expressing your opinion about that place last season. Just wondering. >:)

2. I know your opinion about new mainstream country music (it is similar to mine), but did you happen to see Jeff Foxworthy’s speech at the end of the CMT Awards the other night? Talk about a man laying it all on the table and telling it like it is. WOW. Cheers to Foxworthy on that one. Here’s the link:

http://greaserox5.blogspot.com/2007/04/jeff-foxworthy-had-great-speech-on-cmt.html

By JasonInMaine

April 18, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the info. If Langerhans continue to hit like he has and for whatever reason they don’t feel like giving Diaz an everyday job, maybe one of the kids will get a shot…never know!

Again, I hope the Braves sweep the Cubs. With the rest of the division battling each other, it would be a great time to get a couple of Ws!!

Regards,

Jason

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

KC-

You and I argued about the Mets pitching staff a lot. They have been lucky, but I think you are seeing that they are a lot better than you thought. I agree with you that it won’t last, but the Mets will be right there with the Braves till the end.

By KC

April 18, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

LEW: “KC-I’ll admit that Langerhans has looked totally lost and clueless at the plate so far. But you do make one telling point, even though it doesn’t exactly figure into your conclusion. You mention IF Langerhans had 550 AB. That’s just it. He’s not going to get 550 AB while platooning. He has to get full playing time before you write him off. His career numbers all reflect a platoon situation. He has never gotten an appreciable amount of outfield time all to himself. Platooning is quite difficult and has got to be wearing on a player. Any kind of continuity is impossible under those circumstances.”

Really? Matt Diaz seemed to handle it okay (.327 batting average in 297 AB’s).

“As far as Diaz. Again I have to ask, Why doesn’t he get a full time chance? Why was he released by two teams that should have given their hearts for a .300 hitter? No one has given me a satisfactory answer to that one.”

Why did several record labels pass on Elvis? Come on Lew. We both know there is a mile-long list of good major league players that were given up on by a team, or two, or three teams without ever truly being given a chance. But if you really need me to explain… Here is your answer, and it this is not satisfactory, nothing will be…

Matt Diaz got:

9 AB’s in 2003

21 AB’s in 2004

And 89 AB’s in 2005

He almost literally never got a chance at all to show what he could do. Though, the first time he got so much as 89 at-bats, he hit a respectable .281. Then of course, the first time he got close to 300 AB’s, he hit .327.

If the D-Rays of KC had given Diaz a chance 2-3 years ago and saw him hit .327 over 300 AB’s, do you honestly think they would have given him away? Not a snowball’s chance in hell.

9, 21, or 89 AB’s is a FAR cry from the 315 AB’s Langerhans got last year, and the 326 he got the year before with Atlanta. When you get about 300 AB’s, that means you’re starting at least every other day, and getting some pinch-hit AB’s in between. 300-plus AB’s IS plenty to keep your timing in tune. 9, 21, or 89 AB’s not. Unlike Langerhans, Diaz never got a chance until last year.

By bruce

April 18, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

It is so cool to have this great record with so many not hitting well… I had fun at the game last night chanting “Larry” after Chipper hit the home run in the 9th. Langy made a great catch in the corner that saved us too. I can only hope that Matt would have gotten to it. There were lots of Braves fans at the game… Thanks, Bruce

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 18, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

Oh, and one more thing….Carrie Underwood is sizzling hot. Man oh man, she’s got it…..

By Jim

April 18, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Thanks MLB.

By JasonInMaine

April 18, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Sturtze creates an interesting scenario…assuming Paronto is back and healthy, who gets sent down or what move do the Braves try to make?

By KC

April 18, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Dear Braves blogging family. I am writing you from the bar of my neighborhood Outback in hopes this will not be my final communication. I am not sure I will survive the next 3 minutes. For as I write, my ears are being raped by the gut wrenching sound Sheryl Crow defiling a Guns N Roses classic… and it is rapidly sucking my will to live. The words sweet child o’mine should never, ever be uttered from her lips. Dear God, please make stop. Amen.

By 22oz

April 18, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Hallelujah! The Sturtze question has finally been answered!Thanks DOB

By beachcomber

April 18, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Come July, set the press box on fire and trade for a first baseman. There is a classic picture (I saw it at a 400 club function a couple years ago) of Lemke and Blauser laughing it up on the field while Atlanta burned so to speak. DOB is spot on - the first base situation is becoming a concern both offensively - and defensively.

By Renegator

April 18, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

KC - Amen brother.

By Christy

April 18, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Renegator - Haven’t seen anyone note this on the blog, but then, I was trying to scroll past several Robert postings and may have missed - but John Donovan CNN-SI has Braves at #1, Mets #2.

By KC

April 18, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Efrim:

Agreed. I believe (and have always believed) that the Mets will be there with the Braves, right till the end.

That said, I don’t think the Mets pitching is any better (and certainly not much better) than I thought. Reason being… I never thought or said that their pitching was terrible. I just thought it would be no better than simply “above average”. I predicted that the Mets would not finish top-5 in team ERA, and I still believe that.

Their rotation is average. Their bullpen, while good, is not quite what it was last year. Though, in fairness, I should add that the Braves bullpen won’t be as good as well all thought if Gonzalez doesn’t come around.

Anyway, despite the early season performance, I’m convinced that their pitching is no better than simply above average. When they get Pedro and Mota back, their pitching will be good. Not great, or even very good, but good.

Yes, I agree… they’ll be there every step of the way.

Now one thing I did declare with a fair degree of certainty before the season started was that this would not be a 3 team race. At least not as of mid-latter September. I was never overly impressed with the Phillies, and always felt it would come down to the Mets and Braves. I know it’s early, but I’m going to go ahead and pat myself on the back for calling that one. =)

By Brad in MT

April 18, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Welcome back DOB…I agree that Kelly isn’t doing too bad of a job and is only going to get better. However, Langy does concern me a lot, he looks so lost at the plate and I am starting to wonder if he is ever going to hit.

By Chop Chop

April 18, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

MGL,

Wickman in a leotard is not an image any of us need to ponder.

Quickly moving on…

I’m convinced that Diaz should be starting everyday out in left. He’ll make up for his average glove with his bat. You’ve got Andruw in center, so you can sacrifice some D in left. Bobby might as well take advantage of that situation this year and get some more offense in the lineup because Andruw probably won’t be around next year to allow him to do so.

By Braves20

April 18, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Lee, Beachcomber, DOB and the others finally waking up to the morass that is first base for the Braves, help will probably be on the way by the end of May, first of June. By then the youthful Rockies will have fallen completely out of the NL West and peddle Helton who has to want to win something during his otherwise awesome career.

By BravesFaninRockies

April 18, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, DOB.

Great point about Johnson doing most of what you want a leadoff guy to do. With his pops and his discipline, if he hits only .260, he’s an asset to the offense. You also could have mentioned that he has only 4 Ks to go along with his 9 BBs. I would be stunned if he keeps up that ration throughout the season, but man, isn’t it wonderful to have three guys at the top of the order who are both selective and make contact?

By BravesFaninRockies

April 18, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Extra letterss? What’s thats?

By Rodger

April 18, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

KCsure hope you survived that dasterdly attack. How a woman with so little talent has so much smoke blown up her @$$ I just dont know.

By Dave knockahomer

April 18, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

say what you want…the bullpen was NOT all that great! Well, speaking soley of Villareal who gave up a hit that allowed a run to score and make it 5-4. If it had NOT been for Soriano and Wickman, Smoltz might have had another loss, but they came through. In my view they are the only TWO that we can rely on, but Wickman? are we overusing him? will there be enough left for September? don’t mind overusing him if it will help Smoltzie. but Villareal is okay, but not all that dependable…IN MY VIEWPOINT. YOu don’t come into a situation with runners on base, have a 2 run lead and give up a hit that scores a run. again, thank God for Soriano and Wickman. They won’t be able to do it every time but our chances are alot better when they come in. the rest of the bullpen sucks. but that is just my opinion.

By porksword

April 18, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Smoltz should have never come in in the 7th. That’s why the Braves got that bullpen. He was sitting on about 100 pitches in cold weather. That’s twice Bobby has pulled that crap. Very bad management. The Nats shouldn’t have scored a run last night. Between Cox and Rent., they almost blew a virtual shutout.

By KC

April 18, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

BravesFaninRockies: I agree. Kelly Johnson will prove himself a keeper. He’ll hit for a respectable average, will have a good OBP, and did anyone notice that he came literally within 2 inches of being tied with AJ for the team lead in homers at 3.

I’m certainly not predicting this yet, but it really wouldn’t surprise me if he turned out to be a .300 avg., 20 homer guy.

By KC

April 18, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Rodger:

I feel dirty and violated… but I think I’ll be okay. Thanks.

By Dave knockahomer

April 18, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

I was just told I have been sending too many post! gotta be kidding…haven’t sent one in weeks. but onward to the bullpen….ONLY Soriano and Wickman are worth their salt, in leopard skis or whatever! Villareal came in with runners on, a 2 run lead, and gives up a hit that scores a run….you can’t do that! except for Soriano and Wickman, the bullpen sucks! In MY opinion. and they didn’t really do all that well in a few previous games with the Nats. Just hope Cox doesn’t over do it with Soriano and Wickman…..we need something left for September/

By kdbanks

April 18, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

My two cents…I’m concerned about the lack of offensive production in general. We’re counting on two or three guys right now to hit a key homer to win the games. Since they’re actually doing it, it’s easy to ignore the black holes in LF and at 1B. We’re talking about it, but are the Braves working on it? Is Terry Pendleton trying to get Langerhans to not lock up everytime a third strike comes floating across the plate? Is he trying to show Thor how to hit down on the ball instead of up?

We need something to change in the next couple of weeks, because the HRs will not come as serendipitously as they have, and our bullpen is already looking thinner than we thought.

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

KC-

Agreed on the Phillies. No bullpen, No playoffs.

You said April would result in a 19-7 month. Still think that is possible?

Im thinking 15-10 (25 games in April instead of 26 because of the rainout) at the end of the month. Tough pitching matchups with the Cubs, then a New York, Florida, Colorado road trip. 6-6 the next 12 games? Of course that is worst case scenario, and I am a negative Braves fan.

By Glass Half Full

April 18, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

For those wanting to see Salty at 1st base in the future, hope that Thorman doesn’t produce this year. Otherwise, let’s not throw him under the bus yet.

By porksword

April 18, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

David K….Villareal shouldn’t have seen the mound last night. That situation isn’t even his forte. And btw, Gonzalez will be fine.

By Renegator

April 18, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Braves20: I have always wanted the Braves to pursue Helton - I’m sure he would love to play for a winning franchise. However, he has one of those f’d up Colorado salaries (Hampton, anyone?) and I don’t think the Braves should get anywhere near it.

By KC

April 18, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Dave knockahomer: “Villareal who gave up a hit that allowed a run to score”

Dude, just like the bumper sticker says…

hit happens.

Everyone gives up hits, including Wickman and Soriano. Why are you hatin’ on Villarreal? Last year was his first full season (coming back from a major surgery), and he posted a very respectable 3.61 ERA, while handling a very difficult role. As a long reliever, Villarreal often didn’t get consistent work, but still usually got the job done when called upon. By the way, in his last full season, Villarreal posted a 2.57 ERA over 86 games.

And did you notice that after the all-star break, Villarreal posted a 2.63 ERA over 48 innings.

This year, in 6-1/3 innings, Villarreal has yielding slightly more hits than inn-pitched (8 hits)… BUT in just over 6 innings, he has 10 strikeouts and ZERO walks!!

You’re dismissal of Villarreal as a reliable pitcher is baseless and irrational.

That said, you are correct that the bullpen hasn’t been as lights out as we all thought it would be… and the responsibility for that falls squarely on the shoulders of Mike Gonzalez. Even without Gonzalez, this is a good bullpen. Maybe even very good. But withough Gonzo pitching as he’s capable, this isn’t the truly great “Nasty Boys” bullpen it had (and still has) the potential to be.

By Lee

April 18, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Braves20 - Don’t know what the odds are for getting Todd Helton, slim and none, but that would be swweeeeetttt could you imagine his bat in the middle to this lineup.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

“Your leotards have fungus on them. You’ll never make it to the bigs with fungus on your leotards. Think classy, you’ll be classy. If you win 20 in the show, you can let the fungus grow back and the press’ll think you’re colorful. Until you win 20 in the show, however, it means you are a slob.” - Crash Davis

By Bryan from Kansas (Go KU)

April 18, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

David,

What about Gregor Blanco in left. Pete said on the radio that he was tearing it up at Richmond. Move Kelly down and let him lead off?…

By DonCoburleone

April 18, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Yeah, DOB, what’s the latest on Sturtze???

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

KC, you’re right about Oscar - he’s given up a few hits, but overall has been overpowering. On the bullpen as a whole, though, I would add that the loss (hopefully very temporary) of Paronto, who was really developing, McBride’s utter inability to throw strikes, and Moylan’s first-game jitters (we hope) have contributed to the ‘pen’s mediocre numbers.

Most importantly, though, the ‘pen has done its job - held games when it counts, and saved ‘em when possible. What a huge difference from last year. I don’t think we can blame one loss on the ‘pen this year, and can give them credit in a bunch of them.

Some guys are off to slow starts, but the one guy I get frustrated with is Andruw.

The guys behind AJ - both McCann and Francoeur, are doing a pretty good job at the plate. It’d be nice if AJ would stop wrenching himself into the ground, and think about putting the ball in play.

I know he’ll hit his usual .260 and pound a bunch of home runs, but he should be doing so much more.

By Lew

April 18, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

KC-While I sympathize with your sonic miseries, you still fail to tell why the Braves aren’t giving Diaz the full time shot at left field. He’s been here for two years while Langerhans underperforms at the plate, yet they still aren’t giving him the job. Why? (and Robert-I already know why you think it might be). The Rays, The Royals and the Braves. What’s up?

By Braves20

April 18, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Renegator - Right you are. I’m a little too young to remember but my Dad always pines for the days when there were “baseball trades” as he calls them and you didn’t have to worry about some idiot GM who paid a guy $60 million over five seasons.

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Maybe I’m too patient or just too much of a BC apologist, but I think Langy has earned his plate appearances with the glove he’s flashed in left. I like the lift Diaz gives the team at the plate, but not sure he would’ve had the jump on some of those balls hit to left last night.

By KC

April 18, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Lee:

I think the Rockies understand that they’re not going to compete for a World Series in the next year or two, and Helton’s getting older, so I’m sure he’s available.

I’m also sure that the Braves have enough attractive young talent to pull off a deal for Helton.

The problem, as it often is nowadays, is money. Helton has over 80 million dollars remaining on his contract, which runs through 2011. Now way the Braves would want that contract, even if they could handle it.

In order for Colorado to deal Helton, they’ll probably have to pay at least half his remaining salary, considering his production has fallen off sharply over the past 2 seasons.

In short, you’re right. There’s virtually no chance of the Braves pursuing him.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

I think KJ is going to be similar to Todd Walker with a better eye or a version of the 2002 and 2004 Mark Bellhorn without all of the ridiculous strikeouts.

By knowitall

April 18, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Everyone keeps saying “Bobby left Smoltz in too long”. Then you say “Villareal shouldn’t have been in the game”. Please tell me, which way do you want it? One minute you say he’s over using the guys in the bullpen but when he leaves a starter in the game in order to not go to the bullpen early, you critisize that too. If he didn’t bring Villareal in, who was he supposed to bring in? Plus you all seem to conveniently forget that it was really the defense that allowed Washington to get back in the game last night, not the pitching. It wouldn’t have mattered if Cox had brought Clemens out of the pen, the Braves just didn’t play good defense.

By Lee

April 18, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Renegator - I agree about Helton - but is was nice to dream for a second.

Lew - Even as bad as the Devils Ray’s and Royals are now - I am not convinced Diaz or Langerhans could get a spot as outfielder on their Roster now. As we agreed upon on an earlier post the Devil Rays have been loaded with outfielders in recent years. Even 38 year old Reggie Sanders is batting 395 currently with the Royals and they have promising youngsters in the outfield.

By Jaq B

April 18, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

I think KJ is fine in leadoff. He’s getting more aggressive on the base path and his OBP, though not skyrocketing, is a good indicator that he takes his role at leadoff seriously. I think his bat will come around. We’ve all seen the potential and everyone hits slumps. He’s still getting walks and making things happen to set the table. http://atlbravesfan.mlblogs.com JB in ATL

By KC

April 18, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Lew: I think Bobby Cox answered that question himself. He really appreciates Langerhans’ glove. As he correctly pointed out, he’s one of the best defensive outfielders in the game.

I actually looked back at Rafael Belliard’s numbers, and noticed that in 91 and 92, Rafi got his fare share of at-bats (638 between those 2 seasons), despite the fact that he was probably the lightest bat in the game at the time.

Bobby Cox really likes defense, and is willing to play a gold-glove caliber fielder who can’t hit… just so long as he brings his glove to the park with him.

Now obviously, if Diaz were a gold-glover in his own right, or a 25-30 HR guy… he’d have won the job outright.

Still, I think there are a lot of managers that would be starting Diaz everyday right now. BC is choosing defense over offense every other day. Is that the right move? I don’t know. Bobby’s a smart guy. But I’d be fibbing if I denied being unsure about this one.

By Coach

April 18, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Yes , the best option to lead off is playing in Richmond and as long as the Braves keep winning like this , Blanco will stay in Richmond. On second thought , if Langerhans keeps stinking it up there is a remote possibility that the Braves might call Blanco up. He is rated the best defensive outfielder in the system , excluding Andruw of course. KJ has done a decent job so far , no need to throw him under the bus yet , but it would be nice if we had an answer to the Mets Jose Reyes.

By Braves20

April 18, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Two last comments on Helton. A point was made that his production has fallen off in the last two years - which makes him only doubly as effective as anybody we have there now. Second, in the past 15 years, there has not been a better pure hitter in the game. A long shot for the Braves yes, but so was Maddux many moons ago. Just depends on how much we want to win and how creative we can be.

By Rodger

April 18, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

KC-since Colorado has finally quit paying us for Hampton, maybe they’d like to pay us on Helton for a while.

By knowitall

April 18, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Another important fact that you all are forgetting is that Langerhans is probably the Braves current backup plan in center should they lose Andruw at the end of the year. Because of this, they probably are going to give him every opportunity to turn things around instead of just giving up on him after 13 games. Plus, Joes Simpson seems to have Langy’s problems at the plate all figured out. I wonder if he’s relayed his observations to anyone.

By Jim

April 18, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

STOP THE PLATOON!!! Let Thorman play for 2 or 3 weeks straight and let him play himself into or out of the 1B job. Battus interuptus is not working and Wilson is giving us nothing anyway.

Blanco hit last year; hit in winter ball; hit in limited chances in spring training; and is hitting at AAA. I think he will be brought up in a few weeks to play LF, but think what the Braves have asked of KJ — learn to play 2B, accommodate to the leadoff position, and now, if some of the suggestions on this blog are accepted, to move down in the order to an RBI position. Maybe the reluctance to make a quick move is not only the Cox 40 games to see how the team gels rule, but also the reluctance to put any new pressure on a player with less than 1 year in the majors experience.

By brad in KY

April 18, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

DOB

How many runs has Langerhans saved with his glove? You didn’t say…

re Langerhans

Minor league stats count too and Langerhans has never projected to be better than an average hitter, at best (according to items I’ve read in the past). Diaz is clearly the superior hitter and, it turns out, a solid defender.

re Helton

Helton is a bad idea. Go to a website where you can look at home/road splits. For the amount of money he commands, you’re gonna want more than he can provide. He hasn’t been truly great in awhile (e.g. a combined 35 homers the last TWO SEASONS playing his home games at Coors Field!).

By KC

April 18, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Jim: “STOP THE PLATOON!!! Let Thorman play for 2 or 3 weeks straight and let him play himself into or out of the 1B job.”

I’m with you friend. I’d like to see what Thorman’s got (or doesn’t).

By geauxbraves2000

April 18, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Coach, I can name 29 other teams that desire to have an answer like Reyes :)

I think the Diaz/Lang needs to end. Diaz starts the games, and replaced if need be in the later innings by Lang for defensive purposes.

1B is another story. Thor & Wilson just aren’t cutting it right now. I’d say for now let Thor start every came for a couple of weeks in a row at least, and maybe he can get some comfortabilty at the plate. If he does nothing, try the same with Wilson. If that doesn’t work, it should be time to make a change.

Geaux Braves!!

By kudzu

April 18, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Just an idea, maybe shake up Langer… a little bit- bat him leadoff… Johnson 8th. He’s not going to see anything to hit in the 8 hole…and has gotten himself into a bad rut, his glove is too good right now not to be in left field regularly, personally I’ll take a glove in left over a better bat.

By Chop Chop

April 18, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

I’d give Langerhans and Thorman a month of warm weather to see what they can do before I’d make any permanent decisions on them. However, you’ve got to have guys who can hit in left and at first. After all, those are two big offensive spots in the lineup. McCann is an exceptionally good hitting catcher and Renteria is a cut above at short, but they don’t make up for getting little production out of those two positions. Throw in the fact that Langerhans, Wilson and Thorman are striking out at such a high clip (a combined 24 strikeouts in 74 ABs…gulp) and, well, changes (Diaz can’t start in left AND at first) will have to be made if that continues.

By BCS

April 18, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

Hampton makes 120 millions and he been a bust . Vick make 130 millions been to 3 pro bowl and AJC say he must go. what wrong with this picture?

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson, minors - .281, .366, .464

Gregor Blanco, minors - .272, .374, .380

You cannot seriously think Blanco is a better option than KJ at leadoff. Slightly higher OBP is completely eliminated by the lack of power from Blanco. MBATL’s other point earlier today is also well noted about the likelihood of not drawing so many walks in the majors due to a lack of respect for his hitting.

Blanco also strikes out once every 3.92 at bats in the minor leagues which is so absolutely freaking horrendous for a guy with zero pop in his bat. I am not sure about this but I betcha alot of those strikeouts occur because he is more of a weapon taking pitches than actually using his bat. Speculation on my part

By Jim

April 18, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Coach,

There are no answers to Reyes playing now. He is a special player. The Braves “answer” to the Mets has to be better pitching and Francouer has to become the “answer” to Wright.

Its a long season, and the Mets are vulnerable to the fatigue of their older players. On paper, the Mets are still the team to beat, so, if the Braves do prevail will it be because of Bobby Cox or despite him? I don’t really want to encourage Robert, but I hope he would give Cox some credit if the Braves do come out on top.

By KC

April 18, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: “I picked the Braves, Brewers and Dodgers to win the NL divisions, and the Tigers to beat the Dodgers in the World Series.”

Hmmmm… ya know, I really think the Braves are going to be tough to beat in the post-season this year. The Way Hudson looks right now, I think the Braves could have a buzz-saw of a 1-2 punch similar to Johnson-Schilling in 2001 for the D-Backs. And Chuck James is certainly as good as any #3 starter in the league.

IF Mike Gonzalez comes around, that would give the Braves the edge over any other bullpen they might face in the NL come October. But… Gonzo’s starting to scare me.

Anyway, I don’t know… of course anything can happen in October. But I have a hard time envisioning any NL starting staff 1-3 getting the better of Smoltz, Hudson, and James in October. Not with the dominance Hudson’s showing right now (and we all know Smoltzy in October).

By choppinmama

April 18, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

What a shock to read about John Rocker’s dad death in an auto accident.

In 1999, I was walking around the concourse at the park and stopped when my way was blocked by a man speaking with one of the ushers and a Braves employee with an ID lanyard around his neck. I overheard the man ask if they knew someone “deserving” that could use 2 tickets behind home plate for that day’s game. Both the usher and employee were shaking their heads “no”, they didn’t know of anyone.

Not being a shy one, I spoke up and said that my soon-to-be daughter-in-law and I were at the game, sitting waaay down the 1st baseline, were huge fans and would certainly love to use the tickets. The man said, “here you are, enjoy them”, turned and started to walk away.

I stopped him and asked him what his name was and he said “Jake Rocker.” I asked him if he was John’s dad, and when he said yes, I told him that Michelle and I had just pitched to his son in the bullpen a couple of weeks ago at an event for the ladies. We stood there and talked Braves baseball for at least 20 minutes. A chance encounter with a very proud and generous parent.

RIP Jake Rocker and condolences to John and the rest of your family.

By KC

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

Efrim:

Well now, keep in mind that I was just throwing that out there for fun, and asked other people to guess the Atlanta’s April record. I wasn’t planting a flag in the ground and declaring “19-7!”…

But yeah, it’s definitely still possible.

They’d have to go 9-3 the rest of the month, which will be tough, but doable. In order for that to happen, Davies has to keep pitching as he did against the Mets in his first start and Redman as to right the ship immediately.

The Braves toughest series remaining in the month will obviously be their trip to Shay this weekend. The good news is that we should once again have Hudson, James, and Smoltz lined up to pitch that series, so we’ve got a good chance of taking that series again.

Interestingly… if rotation stays in sync, it would actually be Hudson, James, and Smoltz going for the Braves in their next series against NY in May. I hope Bobby does whatever is necessary to keep the rotation in sync so that will be the case. These head-to-head matchups will be very important if this race shapes up to be as close as it appears it will be.

By porksword

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

Knowitall …I stick w/ my side of the argument. I never uttered a single contradiction. Smoltz shouldn’t have pitched the 7th, Soriano/Gonzalez should have been called in as that’s what they were brought to Atlanta to do. Villareal is long middle relief. For myself, I never said he’s overused the bullpen thus far. And when you’re using the qualifier “all,” you might want to check the accuracy of your accusation(s) before you start splooging all over the blog, knowitall.

Cox did leave Smoltz in too long in both of his Nats starts. It’s April and he has a history of not using his starters too long early in order to preserve his staff for the latter part of the season; something that has, as evidenced by 14 divisional titles in a row, generally paid off.

For the record, I did note that the defense was also at fault for last night’s near-loss. Read before you react and make sure your opinions are informed.

By knowitall

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

Coach, if the Braves call Blanco up, how will they get him on the roster? They aren’t just going to release Langerhans.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

What games are you people watching? Seriously? KJ has been doing a good job in the leadoff spot. Do you expect that from the first game on, his OBP is going to be over .375? Get some perspective people. He is on pace for over 100 walks, over 20 homers, 130 runs, 60 RBIs, 50 strikeouts, over 20 stolen bases. So just shut up already complaining about the guy. And don’t tell me that I can’t expect him to stay on that pace because I can use the same exact argument upon all of you for giving up on him already. Morons.

By Penny

April 18, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

My son and I are big fans of you and your column. Do you ever meet fans at any of the games. We will be attending the Cubs game on the 19th

By James

April 18, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

I really get the feeling after watching andrew this year so far and the fact that we have Blanco, Brandon Jones, and Matt Esquivel in double and triple A that andrew will not be missed in a heartbeat next year. What do you think DOB

By Nate

April 18, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

Pretty good article but I think Kelly J. is doing just fine as lead off man….Atlanta braves divison champs

By Mike

April 18, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Braves just announced Bobby has been given a contract extension through the 2008 season…

By choppinmama

April 18, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

DOB: glad to have you back blogging, and addressing the denizens rather than the clones.

I’ll be wearing the blue leotard tonight, holding the rally red one in reserve in case it’s needed in the late innings. Whatever works……..

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Great story, choppinmama.

By knowitall

April 18, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

porkword, my comment wasn’t necessarily directed at you. I’m just saying, every move is second guessed. I still ask, why was it wrong to bring Villareal in though? Gonzalez had pitched on Monday night and according to many people here, he is already being overused. Plus the way he’s pitching right now, I wouldn’t bring him in with men already on base. So unless your going to use Soriano for 2 innings, which I don’t think Bobby is going to do, who do you bring in? Villareal has pitched well this year so why not give him a try?

By Bob, journalist

April 18, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Good, informational post … half of our extra-base hits have been homers … unfortunate but true.

Slicing it up …

Kelly’s playing a good second base.

Andruw’s been consistent … 3 singles, 3 doubles, 3 homeruns, 3 strikeouts … oops, 16 strikeouts.

Maybe it’s my failing eyesight but Diaz looks better defensively than that ascribed to him. His .364 (righthanders); .313 (lefties) ain’t bad either … I don’t remember last year’s splits but think they were similar.

On the negative side, Matt strikes out 4 times as much as he walks while Andruw’s ratio is only 2:1. Maybe it’s good that Matt doesn’t walk very often!

Langerhan’s 11 strikeouts in 25 at bats (28 including walks)is scary … as is Wilson’s 8 in 23 as is Andruw’s 16 in 48. Of course, Kelly’s 4 in 45 (54 including walks) is boderline scary, too.

Maybe it’s good that Andruw strikes out so much … with him swinging so hard that he loses his balance, it results in fewer doubleplays.

We all enjoy majestic home runs but …

I do believe that if our Davies pitched a shutout tonight; everyone on the team had multiple hits except for Andruw and Chipper … but one of them hit a long, meaningless solo shot late in the game; at least some of the writeups would feature the homerun and there would be those …

Well, it doesn’t really matter what I think … any way you slice it, winning consistently is the result of good technique, not the result of pitchers trying to strikeout every batter or hitters trying to hit every ball as far as possible.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Andruw will not be missed, huh? Come on. Do you really want to go there? As good as Andruw is, it did take him several years to be a quality everyday contributor with his bat? The same will be true for any minor leaguer brought up to replace him. Which minor leaguer exactly is going to replace one of the top 5 defensive centerfielders of all time and replace 40 homers and 110 RBIs? Andruw ain’t perfect but the attitude that some of you have is going to turn this team into the Pittsburgh Pirates or Montreal Expos. Waste years and at bats bringing ‘em up and developing ‘em and then watch them be stars for other teams. Some fans are so childish with their thoughts and arguments. It’s funny that the same people who hate on KJ and Langerhans and Frenchy were the same guys who loved them when they were minor leaguers and are the same guys who love the minor leaguers now. How about this: Start loving the guys on the major league team alot more than guys you have never seen play on a minor league team. Morons.

By choppinmama

April 18, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Poor Robert will have a cerebral hemorrhage over the news that Bobby has signed a 1-year contract through 2008. Oh, the Robertmanity………

By KC

April 18, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

To follow up on my 4:13 post …

Smotlz, Hudson, James vs. Schmidt, Penny, Lowe… I think you’ve gotta like Atlanta.

Smoltz, Hudson, James vs. P.Martinez, Glavine, O.Hernandez… Again, I’ll take Atlanta.

The 4th starter of course isn’t as big a factor in October, but the Braves will likely use one. It remains to be seen how the season will shape up for Davies. It’d be nice to see him shut down the Cubs tonight. But if Davies doesn’t shine this year, we’ve still got Cormier to take a look at.

I’m gonna go ahead a pick the Braves to represent the NL in the World Series. I think superior starting pitching, an excellent bullpen, and clutch hitting will get them there.

I can’t pick a winner because I just don’t follow the AL close enough to speak intelligently about any team they might match up against, but I think Atlanta’s the most likely choice to get there from the NL.

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Just talked to Bobby about the extension. I tell ya, more I talk to him, the less convinced I am of his leaning toward retiring after the ‘08 season. Just can’t imagine him doing anything else, or stepping away from it unless it’s just a terrible, demanding season.

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

James, the future is indeed bright for Los Bravos, but can any team really ever not miss a perennial gold glove fielding and future HOFer?

By Pulpwood Smith

April 18, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

DOB-

I have a serious, yet somewhat irrelevant question: do you ever cringe when you read Mr. Bisher’s columns? His track record over the years is pretty consistent, so it should come as no surprise that he recently railed against the Falcons trading Schaub and keeping Vick. But this morning’s column, in which he reminded us that the real heroes of Jackie Robinson story were 2 white guys went over the line. I picture him doddering about the news room, reminiscing about the Atlanta Crackers and complaining about those darn kids who won’t get off his lawn.

By knowitall

April 18, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

DOB, I was watching highlights on ESPN last night and noticed that I had to really close attention to see who some of the teams were. I was just wondering if MLB has a rule on team colors and/or jerseys. Some of the newer teams like the Rockies and Diamondbacks seems to make changes to their color scheme every year. I also was under the impression that teams could only wear colored jerseys(jerseys other than home white or road gray) on Sundays. Just wondering if there was any kind of standard or if the rules had been relaxed and left it up to the teams.

By True Braves Fan

April 18, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

*FANTASTIC NEWS!!!! BRAVES JUST ANNOUNCED THEY HAVE SIGNED BOBBY COX TO A CONTRACT EXTENSION THROUGH 2008..AT LEAST TWO MORE GOOD YEARS!!!!

By Danga

April 18, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

I like that latest M. Ward album. Nice choice today.

By Rodger

April 18, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Does anyone else hear screams? I think Robert just read DOB’s post!

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

COX on the extension: “It’s a big deal coming back, absolutely. As long as the players can put up with me, and the organization still wants me, fine.

“I don’t know. When I got asked that question, I was going for ’07 and ’08, and after that I didn’t know. That might be it. I don’t know.”

SCHUERHOLZ on Bobby’s extension:

“I’m delighted. He’s the best manager in baseball. It goes without saying he’s been the key and constant ingredient in this remarkable run of success we’ve had here.

“It’s thrilling for me, as a general manager, to know we’re going to have the best manager in baseball again for another year. It’s all very positive.”

On his own contract status, Schuerholz said, “I’m signed for long enough. I’m good. Today’s about Bobby, not me.”

By N8

April 18, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally

“You cannot seriously think Blanco is a better option than KJ at leadoff.”

He probably would be about the same, as far as getting on base. However, when he DOES get on base, he more than likely would creat more havoc for the opposing pitcher. If nothing more than to give Renteria more fastballs to swing at.

The missing link is this. We’d have another GOOD hitter in KJ lower in the order, so those damn rally-killing AB’s by Langerhans, could be minimzed. After all, KJ has the power to possibly hit 20 HR in the majors. Why not have some guys on base when those HR’s are hit?

After all, Bobby’s philosophy is: Pitching, Defense, and the 3-Run HR.

Not: Pitching, defense, and 3 Solo HR!

Just a thought. EITHER WAY, having a guy like Blanco, hitting (power or no power), would be better than Langerhans at this point. Like I said on the other blog, Langerhans, over his short career, has averaged 8 HR/per 162 games played.

Really? That’s the kind of power we’re “holding out for”?

By KC

April 18, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Where’s Robert? He’ll be thrilled!!!!!!!!

By Phil Leotardi

April 18, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

The Braves hit like a bunch of ballerinas.

And Christopher is about to get whacked.

By Baron

April 18, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

KJ’s solid even before the 4 hit night. Few strikeouts, good plate discipline. He’s up there with a plan and executes. More than living up to expectations already. Langy, Wilson, Thor, poor. Two up there hacking like maniacs, the other watching third strikes. Meanwhile, Diaz is an effing rake up there! The guy hits! Check out his career numbers- home/away, lefty/righty, night/day. He’s got to be playing everyday until he proves otherwise. Platoon him in OF one day, 1B the next if you insist on to getting Langy/Thor/Wilson AB’s. Also, after getting the lead, pull him for one of the other more accomplished fielders. I personally am just not terribly concerned about defense at 1B and corner outfield when I could have another sweet bat in the lineup. Andruw has been absolutely awful. We all know by now his erratic batsmanship but sheesh, this is ridiculous. He’s looked TERRIBLE up there in 3/4’s of his AB’s. He’s going to get it together eventually, but right now I’m thinking about dropping him in the order, maybe go KJ-Renty-Chip-McCann-Frenchy-Druw until he snaps out of it. Has anyone noticed that Frenchy’s up to 6 BB already? And hitting to opposite fields, this kid is! He’s still foolish in 1 out of 4 AB’s, but particularly with RISP he seems to make adjustments that make him look more Chipper and less Druw. I’d say he’s made major strides thus far. Everyone else pretty much up to par, although I have to admit I feared a drop off from McCann, because how much of a good thing can anyone expect? The second coming of Yogi Berra, apparently. Now if we can ditch Redman, and Davies and Cormier are just okay, this team can go a long way. Another great team to root for, at any rate.

By Alan

April 18, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Yes, DOB, 9-4 is a very good start to the season and all Braves fans have to be pleased. Still, there are “issues” on offense - almost automatic outs, frankly, at the bottom of the order. Bobby Cox is a very loyal, patient individual, and neither he nor Schuerholz is likely to push any panic buttons before Memorial Day. That’s when they jettisoned Mondesi two years ago. My feeling is, however, if the guys at 1B and in LF still aren’t hitting by the end of April, something should be done. One clear alternative is to put Diaz in left everyday and use Langerhans only as a defensive replacement. Another is to call up either Willie Harris or Gregor Blanco from Richmond and put him in left, and maybe move Diaz to first. That move would add a bit of speed to the lineup, too. I like KJ as a hitter, but I’m still not crazy about him in the leadoff spot, despite his big game last night. Obviously he’s the best option right now, but I’ll bet he’s moved lower in the order in a year or two, if not this year.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

As for the defense in left field, I know we all think Langerhans is a great leftfielder and that Diaz is a liability. Well, at least, I feel that way. But the stats don’t really bear that out.

Here are the defensive stats for whatever they are worth.

Langherhans in left field: Range factor per 9 innings of 2.04 with a zone range of 93.3%.

Diaz in left field: Range factor per 9 innings of 2.56 and a zone range of 90.6%.

The average left fielder has a range factor per 9 innings of around 2.

Langerhans has only made 1 error in his career in left while Diaz has made 7.

Based solely upon stats, Diaz is not as bad as people think out there in left. My eyeballs tell me otherwise but the cold stats tell me that my lying eyes are deceiving me. Not sure which one is true but I tend to trust what my eyeballs tell me I am watching out there.

Of course, as a centerfielder, Langerhans has a range factor per 9 of 3.08 and a zone range of 88.8% which is Andruwesque before Andruw got himself so became a fat fullback playing center. That may be more telling about how great Langerhans is as a defensive outfielder than the mere leftfield stats tell you.

By ncscoots

April 18, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Pulpwood, you mischaracterize. Bisher did not say Rickey and Chandler were the “real heroes of the Jackie Robinson story”. As I read it, he said they deserve credit for having the vision to provide the opportunity to Jackie. And he is correct. In no way does that diminish Jackie Robinson, which is your implication.

BTW, at his most doddering (your term), Furman Bisher’s writing airplane-slams about 90% of the sports columnists in America.

By Coach

April 18, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Yep , Langerhans is out of options , I missed that one. 9 wins 4 losses , if it ain’t broke , don’t try to fix it. However , it would be nice to see more offense. Moving Diaz to first , sending Thorman down and calling up Blanco is not going to happen , but a guy can think up a better mouse trap , can’t he ? And Willy , since you were not paying any attention at all last season , Blanco had an awesome year. He hit .290 with a freakish .402 OBP , 95 walks , 88 runs and 31 stolen bases. The guy is a pure lead off hitter with blazing speed and like I said before , rated the best defensive outfielder in the Braves minor league system. He isn’t supposed to hit for power and by the way , neither did Furcal when he first broke in with Atlanta.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

Robert just slit his wrists after reading DOB’s 4:38 post. Do you think Bobby is doing this on purpose to Robert? I think maybe.

By Ron Roberts

April 18, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

KC, love your optimism, bud, and I hope to hell you’re right, but we’re 2-2 against the Nationals, and the more distant we are from that opening Phillies series, the more it looks like they’re about to implode early and flicker out of the picture, so the Braves’ performance against ‘em is looking less and less impressive with each passing day.

Let’s play teams like the Dodgers and Cardinals (not to mention this upcoming weekend series at Shea) before we go proclaiming the Braves will be tough to beat in the postseason, buddy. You’re a fan, true-blue, and that’s appreciated, but your about as optimistically biased as anybody on here could be.

Besides, while we’re 9-4, we aren’t hitting, we are striking out alot, and one of our “prize” bullpen pickups seems to have lost 10 mph in velocity (hint: elbow troubles). Let’s get through a season without a routine Chipper Jones oblique strain or a starting pitcher going down and see if John Smolt’s back doesn’t bruise up in October after a full season of strain when we’ll need him; then we can talk bravado (no pun intended) about the Braves’ posteson chances, bud.

I’d like to see us do well against teams we’re supposed to dominate, frankly.

By journalist segundo persona

April 18, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this

You are reading the news about Bobby Cox and you are a reasonable person and you are wondering is this a good thing or a bad thing. He’s not the best manager in baseball, but he is far from the worst - you give him credit for that. But you know that the Braves are playing well right now and you know that the players all seem to like him - really like him. So you are happy about the news. You really are.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Striking out every 3.92 at bats in the minors will be disastrous in the majors.

By GT80

April 18, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

I know Langerhans isn’t hitting but did you see the play he made in the 8th last night (or 7th). I don’t think Diaz makes that one. Saved at least 2 runs and preserved Smoltz victory.

Maybe Langy just gets in as a defensive replacement late in the games but thats not a very good use of the roster spot.

By MGL

April 18, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

On his own contract status, Schuerholz said, “I’m signed for long enough. I’m good. Today’s about Bobby, not me.”

Now that’s a classy response, not taking the emphasis off the Bobby news.

By parks

April 18, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Party at Robert’s house

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

one of our “prize” bullpen pickups seems to have lost 10 mph in velocity (hint: elbow troubles). Let’s get through a season without a routine Chipper Jones oblique strain or a starting pitcher going down

Ron Roberts: We may be in more dire straights than I originally thought if this is our litmus test. Gonzo’s drop in velocity could be a shoulder/rotator cuff issue as is the case with Schmidt in LA. But that’s all speculation. Could be he just hasn’t heated up yet. But the “Starting pitcher going down” portion has already happened…. twice! We’ve put two starters on the DL so far, one pretty much has a permanent home there though.

By Ed Glennon

April 18, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

I think Kelly Johnson and Scot Thormann will come around. I would like to talk about the rally killer - Andruw Jones. Scot Boris must really be nervous. He may have to settle for $19 million a year. Jeff must be nervous too. He did not like his $400,000 plus salary this year. Guess he couldn’t live off his $2.5 million signing bonus. Chipper who took a pay cut keeps coming through time after time even though a .190 hitter follows him in the lineup. Andruw should start listening to his dad again and sign with the Braves before he drops to .175.

By Braves fan 202

April 18, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Robert will be on here any second complaining about the extension, good for bobby though. Welcome back DOB. Thats all i got for now. See yall on the gametracker in an hour. I got a game of my own to go to. Hudson for Cy Young!

By James

April 18, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

True, losing andrew would be a big hit, but i think the braves would be able to replace most of his production. And by the way, i have seen blanco and brandon jones play and they are terrific guys.

By BossLady

April 18, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

DOB did you answer Penny? Will you be there on the 19th?

By Chris

April 18, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

My dad got me a 4-game flex pack for Christmas. The tickets included in the pack were the first 2 Friday home games (both Redman starts), tomorrow night (another Redman start) and May 10.

How have I been so unlucky as to get Redman in my first 3 games of the season? If tomorrow weren’t John Smoltz t-shirt night, I’d probably stay home…

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

With his unwavering optimism, KC hopes to turn this band of naysayers into his own Sunshine Band!

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

KC-

Regarding your 4:37 post.

I disagree completely.

Smoltz vs. Pedro EDGE: Braves

Glavine vs. Hudson EDGE: Mets

James vs. El Duque EDGE: Mets

and why…

Because the Mets lineup is

SS Reyes C Lo Duca CF Beltran 1B Delgado 3B Wright LF Alou RF Green 2B Valentin

Braves Lineup is

2B Johnson SS Renteria 3B Jones CF Jones C McCann RF Francouer 1B Thorman LF Langerhans

The Mets lineup is great and the Braves lineup is good. They would be tough to beat in a postseason series based on the fact that there lineup is relentless and to proove it, Smoltz said this might be the greatest lineup he has ever faced.

By Baron

April 18, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

One thing I’d like Bobby to do is show more flexibility in his lineup and defense. Send Diaz to the outfield when you’ve got a groundball pitcher on the mound, put him at first when the opposite arises. Isn’t Frenchy a pretty good fielder? Then put him in LF against a righty-biased squad if you are worried about Diaz’s glove. When/if the Braves lead, pull Diaz and insert the better fielder.

The concept of the platoon is a good one if you have the right personel to execute it properly. Right now Langy/Thor/Wilson are showing NOTHING at the plate while all Diaz does is hit. Bobby could distribute the AB’s and innings of the platoon system in a more effective fashion with a more situational approach than the what he’s using now. I know we can get more production out of the roster we have.

By GhostDawg

April 18, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Best thing on AJC hands down, wish you covered the Dawgs!

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

I always thought the Mets’ weakness would be their corner OF, more than their pitching (the pitching never looked great, but Minaya seemed to have quite a bit of confidence in it).

I still think Glavine and El Duque will have a hard time come August/September, but we’ve gotta give them credit so far.

Above all, if Alou and Green stay healthy and keep raking at a .400 obp, the Mets’ lineup is almost unpitchable-against (?). I still doubt it, though.

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Cox has earned four Manager of the Year awards from the Baseball Writers Association of America and an unprecedented eight Manager of the Year honors from the Sporting News. No other skipper has won the Sporting News award more than three times since the magazine started its balloting in 1936.

Very pleased Cox is sticking around for at least another year. Congrats Cox!

GO BRAVES

By JC from UT

April 18, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

DOB: Have you or anyone else asked AJ why he never goes to right field? Is it against his soon to be free agent status to take the ball the other way. Sorry I forgot he never did go th right field.

By Jeff R

April 18, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

I think it’s too early to be worried about left field. Let’s see what Langerhans does when the weather warms up. We’re only 13 games—count ‘em—into the season. Regardless, Thorman isn’t going to be a great hitter. He’s a mid range hitter, and if the Braves get something in the neighborhood of 20-70-.260 from the guy, count that as good.

As to Ron Roberts points about waiting to see how the team fares against the likes of LA and StL (well, actually, the Cards pitching is pretty mediocre). Point well taken, but, the Braves are beating the teams they need to beat in their division. First things first.

By jed

April 18, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

If anyone reading this has MLB.TV, can you tell me whether it’s any good? What are its plusses & minuses? Also, has anyone on Dish Network heard anything about whether we will get the Baseball Package back?

By Carolina Lady

April 18, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

Y’all still talking about leotards. I don’t think I’m gonna try that anymore. I was telling somebody a few days ago that I had gotten inspired by the leotard talk and had gone to the gym to participate in an exercise class. I stretched, bent, twisted and sweated for nearly an hour, but by the time I actually got the things on the class was over!

DOB, you got fans!! How much do you charge for your autograph? Autographed cheese??

Do any of y’all remember the first part of last season when all sorts of terrible things about LaRoche were being posted here?? Well, never let it be said that Braves fans aren’t - uh - fervent! :-)))

Bravo on Bobby Cox’s contract extension!! Best news of the day!!

By Robert

April 18, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

This just in. A recent informal survey suggests that some 91 percent of Braves fans are either woefully misguided or repulsively stupid

Investigators plan to repeat the survey in October of 2009 and are curious how current members of the Flat Earth Society will still be ardant adherents at that time

I am ashamed to call myself a Braves fan at this point. 91 percent of my fellow Braves fans. Frightening. Literally, frightening.

Sell it hard enough and early enough and make it sound authoritative enough, and the public will buy ANY story. Doesnt matter if the obvious facts totally contradict the party line. They will buy it.

Have fun with your hero, y’all. Just do me a favor and clean up the mess he makes.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Did anyone just hear the news that the Phillies have put Myers into the pen and put Leiber into the rotation? BIZARRE! I know they have a weak pen but how does the Opening Day starter get demoted to the pen within a few weeks? Myers is too darn good to be in the pen. He dueled Smoltz pretty evenly that first game. Manuel needs to be fired. But who cares? Great news for the Braves. Bravo for the Bravos! Our 9-4 start and butt whipping of the Phils has them reeling and panicking already. One contender has already been eliminated. The Fish will soon follow no matter how much trouble we always have with them. All we need to worry about is being patient by waiting for the Mets pitching to fall apart and we will run away with this thing in August.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

leotards, stretching, bending, twisting, and sweating? CL, please, this is a family web site despite the posts of Caveman22 to the contrary.

By Coach

April 18, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Hey Willy , guess who has a 3.72 strikeout ratio ? That would be Langerhans , read it and weep dude , you brought this stat up.

By Ron

April 18, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

I know that Langy is a great LF glove, but do we need a great LF glove. I would rather have a descent glove and a real good hitter, than a Great Glove and a pathetic bat!!!!! Lew, Langy only had one good year in the Minors, and that was in AAA, the year before he won the backup spot in the spring training. Cox will eventually decide that you do not need a great Glove in LF!!!!!!!!!

By Coach

April 18, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

robot , you have directly influenced the masses with your reverse psychology and convinced them that Bobby Cox is the greatest manager in history . You have nobody to blame but yourself , congratulations. p.s. I really think you should go into comedy.

By Salty

April 18, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

CL Doin’ stand up now, huh? Good job! At least you didn’t pull anything!

By Carolina Lady

April 18, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

:-))), WillyWally, ‘twas reminiscent of Keystone Kops!

By parks

April 18, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

maybe old news but the Phils have put Myers in the setup role and leiber to the rotation. wow

By parks

April 18, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Robert really time for you to invest some time in life. Your really becoming quite sad

By The Stranger

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

Ron, this is National League Baseball, the way the game was made to be played. Pitching and defense, dude. Pitching and defense. You can’t have too many good pitchers and you can’t have too many good gloves. Bats get hot and bats get cold, but like paper over rock, good leather beats good wood.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Coach, sorry for calling you a moron. You are far from a moron - all your posts tell me that. So, sorry about that - that was pathetic by me.

I am also frustrated by Langerhans. Maybe you are right that Blanco would be the better option - especially if his defense is just as strong or stronger. At this point, according to your logic, what is there to lose? Maybe, you are right. I have not seen much from Langerhans outside of his good stretch at the end of 2005 and the first two weeks of 2006 to suggest we need to hang onto him. DOB’s stats that he has posted about his performance since about April 15th of last year are just frightening. I don’t know. It may be time to move on because what exactly are we expecting or hoping for out of Langerhans? Maybe Blanco could give us that boost that Chucky T gave us a few years ago althoug he will do it in a different way. Why don’t we trade Langerhans to Oakland and get Chucky T back? Is Chucky T still even playing for Oakland in the minors? Chucky T did more in the three or so months he was up here than Langherhans has done in the 3 years he has been here.

By Robot

April 18, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Sell it hard enough and early enough and make it sound authoritative enough, and the public will buy ANY story. Doesnt matter if the obvious facts totally contradict the party line. They will buy it.

I, Robot, swore to follow this line of sales for my most moronic point until my power unit was completely drained. But alas, I have a question. Why, after beating this drum repeatedly, why has this mission statement not followed true? It makes me so mad! Leyland is the best ever. That’s why he lost last season in the WS. He can’t field to save his life! Leyland sucks! Who’s on first? Who. Who’s on f-f-f-f-f-f-first.

—Break In Code—
Critical Error encountered.

—End Transmission—

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

Myers is 0-2 with a 9.39 ERA. That’s Reitsma Territory. That is why he is demoted. Maybe he held the Braves to a low offensive output, but the Braves aren’t hitting well anyway.

By Ron

April 18, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

The Stranger, Dude Baseball is about Pitching, Defense, and OFFENSE, you dont have no Offense, it dont matter how good your Pitching and Defense is you will lose every game 1-0!!!!! Dont say “just Pitching and Defense”. You dont need a Great Glove in LF. Center, and Right, Yes, but LF, Hell NO!!!

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

10Paul, Myers over the last 2 years has averaged over 200 innings and an era under 3.9. Not bad for a young guy. He’s had one good start (against the Braves) and 2 bad ones this year. $8.5 mil is a lot to pay a setup man.

Maybe it’ll work out for Philly, but I think Manuel (who blew up at a reporter last night) is imploding before our very eyes. We’ll see!

By Robert

April 18, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

Quarterback in the huddle - “Ok, here’s the deal. I’ve got a play in mind. I’ve tried it sixteen times before and it’s worked once. So we’re gonna run it over and over and over again”

Miliatry strategist reporting to the General Staff

“Here’s the plan of battle. We reviewed past files and can report that this strategy has been tried sixteen previous times and has worked once. “

Doctor to patient - “Ok, so there’s this operation we can do. Fifteen out of the sixteen patients I have tried it on died horrible painful deaths. One guy did ok, but looking back he probably wouldve done ok without the operation also. Whatdaya say, let’s go for it?”

I just dont see any of those scenarios going thru. And yet, in Braves baseball, it’s a GIVEN

It’s a good thing stupidity aint illegal, cuz if it were, they couldnt build enough jails to hold all the Braves fans

By Roper

April 18, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

bless you robot.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

And to imagine that Manuel was supposed to be the cool, calm, rational voice of reason contrast for the Phillies players as opposed to Larry Bowa.

By Ron

April 18, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

The Stranger, It aint like Diaz cant play a lick in LF. Langy is better, but not that damn better, when he is hittin what .080. Thats when Defense means nothin when you hit that damn LOW!!!!!!! IF Langy was capable of hittin .260, and even if Diaz hit .300 then I would rather have Langy, BUT I dont think Langy can even hit .240 with 450 ABs.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 18, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

Robot Robert—your 5:47 P.M. post was without a doubt the most truthful, cogent statement that you have ever made when you said, “that some 91% of Braves fans are either woefully misguided or repulsively stupid”—-then in the next breath, you admit to being included in this group!…

By Brad in MT

April 18, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

Robert, if stupidity was illegal, you’d be serving a life sentence…

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Robot, I certainly hope you were made by Microsoft because then I know that you are due for a malfunction and a resultant crash anytime now.

Everytime I hear your Bobby Cox rant, this is what my laptop screen shows me:

An internal error occurred in the Windows Internet Extensions.

A Previous Installation Has Pending Work Requiring a Reboot

A file that is required to run search companion cannot be found. You may need to run setup.

A connection to the server could not be established.

A custom form is being installed.

A device attached to the system is not functioning

An unknown error occurred during creation of ActiveX Control.

Assertion failed!

Bad or missing Command Interpreter

Cannot read object’s information.

Connection could not be established. Access denied.

Disk is Full or out of memory or not enough memory - not enough resources or too many files are open.

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

MBATL: It could very well be the worst move to date, but Myers is stinking so far in this young season.

By Lew

April 18, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Nathan-Don’t be surprised if you see KJ take a few more SB attempts as he gets more copmfortable in the leadoff spot. He may not have blazing speed, but he has real good reflexes and is a smart runner. If he can steal 15-20 bases this year, I wouldn’t be surprised. WillyWally-I see what you’re saying about Diaz’s fielding, but last night, for example, when Soriano was pitching with two outs, I was much more comfortable when that ball was hit into the left field corner, with Langerhans out there than I would have been with Diaz. Diaz may have gotten to the ball, but would have run in circles to get there, or slid into the wall half killing himself. He made a good throw the other night to get the runner at third, but he made catching the ball first a real adventure. They don’t call him Magellan for nothing.

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Robot, that 6:21 post made me laugh out loud here in the pressbox.

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

“Incredible. This is perhaps the biggest overreaction to a lousy start that we’ve ever witnessed. Myers earned the Opening Day start for the Phillies after back-to-back fine seasons and had a great spring. He was coming off back-to-back poor starts, but he had struck out 19 in 15 1/3 innings. Short of turning Ryan Howard into a shortstop and benching Jimmy Rollins, we can’t think of anything else the Phillies could have done to better sabotage their chances for this year. Myers needs to be held on to in mixed leagues, as the Phillies might figure out in a couple of weeks just how bad of an idea this is”.

Rotoworld’s reaction to Myers being moved to the bullpen.

By Lew

April 18, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

Ron-Considering Langy has hit NO LOWER than .241 in his career, I would imagine that’s where he’ll end up again. He looks terrible, right now, but I seriously doubt he will hit .080 for the season. Remember that Francoeur started out 2-36 last year. Give the guy a little chance to play first before you condemn him to baseball purgatory and relegate him to that special hell reserved for those who can’t even get halfway to Mendoza.

By Robert

April 18, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

Southern JA - I ASSURE you, I am in the 9 percent of Braves fans that do not automatically believe whatever the corporation tells them AND have a working brain

Heck, 9 percent aint so bad. One smart person ought to be able to handle ten fools. Even if it holds true nationwide, thats what, 27 million intelligent people in the country.

By Robert

April 18, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally, what your computer should be telling is

“User Error - Replace user and strike any key when ready”

By Lew

April 18, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim-It really isn’t Charlie Manuel managing the Phillies-it’s probably Robert. Myer’s is their best pitcher. Putting him in the pen is so absurd, could almost believe it was some Robot doing it.

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

Ron, good points all. I’ve forgiven Ryan for his .241 disaster last year, and I believe he’ll hit better this year, despite the first 25 AB’s. Diaz has done nothing but impress, in the field and at the plate. Even so, I think Langy rounds out the best outfield in baseball, and I’d like to see him get at least 50 AB’s before he’s relegated to being a late-game defensive sub.

By Atlanta Media Man

April 18, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

I just about swerved off the road this afternoon when I heard one of 680 the Fan’s hosts describe Bobby Cox as friendly and approachable to the media.

John Kincade….do you ever leave the radio studio and actually cover a game??

If you did, you’d know Bobby is the quintessential grouchy old man. He is mean-spirited, short and evasive with the press.

All of his “quotes” are little slices of positive thinking he wants his players to hear and read—not even remotely based on reality.

John, get out to a game now and then.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 18, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Robot Robert—so you say that you have a working brain…you could have fooled me…but if so, when are you going to start using that brain?…

Naming you ‘Robot’ was really a misnomer, and a mistake…Hell! One can throw the switch on a robot and turn the damn thing off…but there’s no shut off button with you…you just keep going, and going, and going…maybe you should be called the “Energizer Idiot”!!!…

By rodney dangerfield

April 18, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

Hey, I can’t wait to see this new Pie kid the Cubs got. I hear he is berry good. Seriously, I hear he’s good at the plate. Yeah, his average is around 3.14. Some Cubs fans would rather see a crusty veteran in the lineup. Yeah, the Cubs are even bringing a special old timer in to supervise his workouts, yeah: Pie Traynor. I hope he sticks around and is not in the bigs for just a cup of coffee. Wait, he could turn out to be a lemon.

By rodney dangerfield

April 18, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

Ooh. I like Pie with wiff cream.

By Ron

April 18, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

The Stranger, You are right about the BEST OUTFIELD Defense in Baseball with Langy in there. You may be right about giving him a few more ABs, but if he aint hittin by the beginning of May, then he will have to come in, in the late innings when we have the lead.

By DCBrave

April 18, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

As of just now when I voted in the poll about Bobby’s extension, Robert had already voted 104 times…keep up the important work trying to save the rest of us from ourselves.

By rodney dangerfield

April 18, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

Seriously, he should be managed by Dusty Baker.

By rodney dangerfield

April 18, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

Ooh, I can’t stop with the Pie jokes. What do you want - this blog is titled: Any Way You Slice It!

By Phil Leotardo

April 18, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Hey Dangerfield! Shut your PIEhole already.

By N8

April 18, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

OK

The Cubs are 5-8 coming into tonights game.

The teams we’ve played SO FAR are a combined 21-30. So are we a good team at 9-4 or have we played nothing but CRAP?

Nice job by Davies, minimizing the damage in the first inning.

But the Gloom and Doom in me says that Zambrano’s 2-1 record, with 44 K’s in 44.1 IP, with a 3.86 ERA in 7 career starts against the Braves, will make it a LONG night for Braves hitters.

The GOOD NEWS……3 HR & 8 RBI this season. Did I mention that ALL 3 HR and 7 of the 8 RBI have come at home?

Not to mention Francoeur’s RIDICULOUS home/road splits.

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

Jeff needs to quit swinging at that first pitch.

By N8

April 18, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

That Jeff Francoeur should swing at the first pitch EVERYTIME!

Oh….wait. He does that already, doesn’t he?

Hmmmm. Francoeur with a 3-Run Homer……AT HOME. Go figure.

I guess now all Bobby needs is some pitching and some defense and this one is in the bag. LOL!

By N8

April 18, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Robot, I agree with DOB. The 6:21 post was FUNNY.

Kinda reminded me of the old Coca Cola “Max Headroom” commercials.

Lew

You said the following, reguarding Langerhans:

“He looks terrible, right now, but I seriously doubt he will hit .080 for the season. Remember that Francoeur started out 2-36 last year. Give the guy a little chance to play first before you condemn him to baseball purgatory”

What’s that groundout make him? 2 for 26? I guess that only leaves him about 10 more AB’s to get it going then, if we’re using Francoeur as a measuring stick. LOL!

Sorry, had to give you a hard time.

Hey! You’re not gonna take me up on that “book offer”?

By N8

April 18, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB

With Francoeur and Andruw’s “splits” at home, it makes me wonder.

Has a manager ever had a Home/Away platoon between players?

By Sir Stealth

April 18, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

It seems like I’m not the only one who actually looked forward to Robot’s posts for the first time today. A nice little contract extension and he may stay even longer - better roll that countdown back! Here’s to Bobby managing the Braves forever and Robot wasting his life complaining about it and crying himself to sleep every night.

By Sir Stealth

April 18, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

I took a moderate lengthed trip to DC last night to take in the boys in person for the first time this season (Sir Stealth is termporarily estranged from his eternal hometown of Atlanta). It was a surreal atmosphere in the windy, empty, anachronistic old RFK. There were at least as many Braves fans as Nats fans.

Langerhans is really sucking at the plate, and I am one who thinks that Diaz’s defense is very underrated, but Langy really did probably save the game last night by running down the hard liner in the corner. Diaz, solid fielder that I think he is, probably doesn’t get there. So at least the talk about Langerhans staying in with his D isn’t just talk.

I love Bobby and hate Robot, but I agree that Smoltz probably shouldn’t have gone out in a cold 7th with 99 pitches under his belt already. I disagree that Villareal pitched badly. The baserunners he allowed were on rather tough breaks that just got through, and the strikeout to follow that up was nice. That being said, Bobby clearly trusted only Soriano when it was time to get the heart of the order up, and it was probably a good decision. Soriano pitching a long inning and 2/3 wasn’t as big a deal since he hasn’t pitched in so long. Bob “I need to shut this game down so I can get to the clubhouse spread sooner” Wickman rules.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this

With runners on, in their careers, here are the OPS numbers for the key Braves hitters:

KJ: .875

Edgar: .773

Chipper: .948

Andruw: .822

McCann: 1.064

Frenchy: .873

Thorman: .540

Langerhans: .763

Wilson: .795

Diaz: .659

For whatever that is worth to you.

By brent a.

April 18, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Aybar = Head Case

By Carolina Lady

April 18, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Aybar has been suspended indefinitely. What is going on??

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 18, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

I agree that it is still early and that Thorman and Johnson need to be given more time. I actually think Johnson has done quite well despite the poor avg. He is getting on base and playing damn near gold glove caliber second base. Langerhans, however, I think has been given enough time. This isn’t his first rodeo. We are now in year three and not only has his hitting not improved; it has gotten worse. The guy is one of the best defensive outfielders in all of baseball but he can’t hit Paris Hilton’s weight. Diaz is not the disaster defensively that some on here make him out to be. And, I would rather have Blanco playing LF and racking up hits without any so-called power than watching Langerhans standing like a statue at strikes 1 and 2 and swingly sadly at strike 3. Blanco doesn’t have to leadoff. He could hit 8th. He would be a great #8 hitter because he can hit and he walks which in the National League is a big deal. A poor #8 hitter can cause your pitcher to leadoff an inning which is never an optimal choice.

By Anonymous

April 18, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Willie Aybar suspended indefinately by the Braves for failing to show up today.

By N8

April 18, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

DOB

Skip and Pete just said that Aybar has been suspended INDEFINITELY due to not reporting today, after his 3 day suspension.

Time to cut this LOSER lose, IMO.

Move along now son, you serve NO PURPOSE here.

See if the Dodgers will return their overhyped 3B, Mr. Betemit. Then all the Betemit homers can shut their pie-holes.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

What is the deal with Aybar?

By ElbravoX

April 18, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Willy Aybar suspended indefinitely by the Braves. Where is Betemit? Man, I miss that guy!

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Aybar didn’t show up today, when he was supposed to have “a chat” with Bobby in the manager’s office. It’s becoming bizarre, though all indications are that he’s not incarcerated or hospitalized or anything of that nature. Braves have talked to him since Sunday.

Schuerholz and Bobby wouldn’t give any details, Cox said to talk to Wren and Schuerholz, and Scheurholz would only say they thought he would be here, he was supposed to be here, they’re trying to get him here (whatever that means) and that his suspension was extended indefinitely.

By brian

April 18, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

So Aybar is suspended indefinitely? When have the Braves ever suspended someone like that and what the he$$ did Aybar do/not do? He does not sound like he fits the mold of the Braves players of the past 15 years.

Robert - Sorry JS did not consult you or read your posts before the extension was signed. I mean, the man did not win the division title last year. Can him? Bullpen - no excuse. Injuries - no excuse.

Please! Congrats Bobby and hope you are here for another 5 years and another World Series Title!

By rodney dangerfield

April 18, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Hey - Aybar is AWOL. No, he’s been barred by the team. No seriously, a man walked into Aybar. What if Aybar walked into the woods - would anybody hear him? Anyone want some pie?

By Lew

April 18, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Nathan-I’m already a published author. You can’t afford me.

By serbok

April 18, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

I was against the betemit trade last year also~This Aybar is definitely a nut case. Doesnt belong in professional BB. Then again~ I’m wondering about langerhans~ oops~ thats right he can field?

By rodney dangerfield

April 18, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

Hey - I can’t wait for Lance Cormier to get back. I’m starting a fan group. We’re gonna call ourselves Lance’s boils.

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, when you get a chance (and not necessarily tonight), it’d be interesting to know what our options are, contractually, with a guy who can’t seem to show up for work. Seems that we shouldn’t be on the hook for his contract, and that he shouldn’t be able to sign with another team if he’s (apparently) violated the terms of his existing contract. Just wondering how it works…

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

Apparently Aybar didn’t receive the memo from coach Yoculan, about strapping on the leotard and making a statement.

By Braves fan 202

April 18, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

I hate langerhans. i want Diaz! He is the friggin man. Nice to see thorman hit one out. Who cares if langy can field, he SUX at hitting! When is Redmans next start? Im not watching. We can only win those like 8-7. W/e we’ll get rid of him soon enough

By David O'Brien

April 18, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

MBATL, he’s suspended without pay. They’re not paying him as long as he’s suspended

By True Braves Fan

April 18, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Nothing personal against Langerhans, but I am very tired of his striking out every other bat, and no hits. I know he has a great glove, but there has to be an OF in the minors that has a good glove, and can hit… .250 would be an improvement over what we are getting.

By jd

April 18, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

positives: 5plus good innings from davies…francour bomb…thorman serious bomb….mccann smart hitting…very nice… worries: a. jones and langerhans couldn’t hit my mom (she’s 84 and has lost a couple of mph off her fastball)…marlins rolled over and played dead for the mets…we left about 30 men on base…oops-davies is looking bad in the 6th… questions: we gave away betemit for nothing?…and another year for BC? time will tell

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

O’B, I think that would be a fine way for Homeboy to open up that “chat,” if/when it happens. If you’re not out there wanting to win…

By farthammer

April 18, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

Man with the Braves leaving Smoltz and Davies in, they need to make sure that’s not Grady Little in a Bobby mask

By farthammer

April 18, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

Man with the Braves leaving Smoltz and Davies in, they need to make sure that’s not Grady Little in a Bobby mask

By Braves Fan 79

April 18, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

U picked the dodgers over the braves in the playoffs??? man what are you smoking dave..?

By N8

April 18, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

After Andruw’s latest failure with RISP, after Chipper’s HUSTLE Double, I had to do some digging.

Here are Andruw’s career numbers with RISP (in other words CLUTCH HITTING without using the Hack-n-Jack mentality):

2049 Plate Appearances, with 431 hits (.255 Ave), 73 HR, 656 RBI, .444 SLG, 367 K’s, 282 BB

By comparison, I thought I’d look up the Braves BEST hitter with RISP, Brian McCann’s career numbers:

200 Plate Appearances, with 52 Hits (.331 Ave), 10 HR, 92 RBI, .605 SLB, 21 K’s, 34 BB

Now, I realize that 200 vs 2049 plate appearances is just a slive of comparison, and part of Andruw’s value is his durability. But let’s have some fun and “pro-rate” McCann’s numbers out if he had Andruw’s plate appearances:

533 Hits, 102 HR, 942 RBI, 215 K’s, 348 BB’s.

Now obviously, a catcher is not going to have the health, and more than likely the durability to withstand a lengthy (at peak production) career. Andruw’s a freak that way.

But McCann is 23 years old! He’s going to get BETTER.

Here’s Andruw’s progression with his BA with RISP in every year since 1996:

.233, .234, .257, .271, .277, .286, .257, .272, .228, .207, .276

NICE. Hack-n-Jack, All or nothing, Going for the Downs, etc….

ANYBODY ELSE THINK BOBBY’S LEAVING DAVIES IN TOO LONG TONIGHT?

For the record, Albert Pujols has the following career stats with RISP:

1141 plate appearances, .342 BA, 72 HR, 500 RBI, with a .681 SLG

So let’s see. He has slightly more than half the plate appearances (55%) as Andruw, 1 less HR, 165 less RBI, when pro-rated to Andruw’s plate appearances, he would have 129 HR, and 897 RBI.

I know the world is infatuated with HR’s (I heard one time that “Chicks dig the longball”).

But to me, Andruw is an AWESOME CF, a prolific long ball threat (as long as the pitcher hangs one), but Pujols is in EVERY definition of the word, a MUCH BETTER HITTER than Andruw.

In fact, I’ll go on record and say this: If Andruw is worth 20 million after this year, then we got the deal of the CENTURY for what we’re paying McCann for the next 6 years.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 18, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

this journalist said earlier not to worry about langerhans until the batting average dropped below .075. well, it is now below .075. worry is now appropriate. and how about that homerun hit by thorman! pete orr is in the game! oops, there goes pete orr.

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Gonzalez is definetly hurt.

By jd

April 18, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

a. jones is killing us in the number 4 spot…geez, drop him to 7th or 8th til he starts hitting…boras must be deeply into the paxil right now…btw, yates brought some serious heat! wow!

By journalist segundo persona

April 18, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

As you watch this game you are troubled. You think, can the Braves not hit in the clutch? Can they afford to pass up opportunities (walks, hit batsmen). You are troubled indeed. But you are also excited.

By N8

April 18, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

Thank you Andruw, for “coming through” after I posted a 5000 word report MOCKING your production with RISP.

Man I love being right.

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

So much for this great bullpen. Where the hell is Gonzalez??? Why did we trade a up and coming first baseman for this guy???

By Tony Almeida

April 18, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Say goodbye to first place.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

in 2005, Andruw was .235, .303, .409, 3 homers, 12 RBIs and we all know what kind of year he ended up having. So, calm down about Druw. He’ll hit. He is just going through one of his maddening periods that make you want to kill him.

By lojak

April 18, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

would someone tell me why cox took out Yates, who pitched to two guys, looked awesome—only to bring in Villareal..Sometimes I never get bobby

By ncscoots

April 18, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Well, gee, Efrim, you think it might be because Soriano went a hard inning and two-thirds last night, and Bobby wanted to use Gonzalez in the 8th? Ya think? Duh.

By N8

April 18, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

We had Zambrano on the ropes in the first 3-4 innings and let him off the hook.

Good teams DON’T do that.

Again, I’ll repeat my first post of the night.

So far our combined opponants records (before tonight) was 21-30. The Cubs are (were 5-8).

I’ll go on record and say (what I’ve been saying for a week), we’re better than last year. But we are NOT as good as our 9-4 record shows. We have faced HORRIBLE compitition so far.

Good teams will expose EVERY ONE of our weaknesses.

By parks

April 18, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

just like the mets exposed our weaknesses

By choppinmama

April 18, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

OK, I’ve just slipped into my red leotard. Rally time!

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

KJ!

A BIG OLE SHHHHHHHH TO ALL THE HATERS!

By HP

April 18, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Langerhans does not deserve to play everyday. He needs to be send to minor league to figure his hiting out. We are just losing every important bat for that position. And How can Bobby Cox bench a player like Diaz who is hitting .345. He deserves to play everyday.

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson bailing the bullpen out

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

N8, before you get too carried away with that “bad opponents” theory, the Mets have played the Cards (losing record), the Braves, the Phillies (losing record), the Nats (losing record), the Phillies again, and the Marlins (losing record). I haven’t “done the math” but I’d guess it’s comparable to the Braves’ competition. And probably typical of good teams (with winning records, that is) early in the season.

Oh, and , KELLY FREAKIN’ JOHNSON!

By choppinmama

April 18, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

OMG, this red leotard thing really works! Let’s close it out with Wicky.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 18, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

How about that Kelly Johnson? I say send the kid down to AAA. He just isn’t performing at the major league level. Or, maybe, he is beginning to hit just like he has done throughout his minor league career.

By N8

April 18, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

Alright. I’m DONE guessing what’s gonna happen after the 7th inning with this team.

I need to get it through my THICK SKULL that this is NOT 2006.

Amazing. But then again……it is the Cubs. LOL!

By jd

April 18, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

how can diaz not be in the lineup every friggin day??? come on, BC, give up…play him…way to go KJ..way to hit…go guys!!!

By Micah

April 18, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Three cheers for the new look Braves! Its the bottom of the seventh, Braves down by one run. Thor is at third, Diaz at 2nd, Woodie at first, and Kelly Johnson at the plate. I couldn’t help think what a hit by Johnson would do for the whole organization’s confidence. And, he pulled through! Edgar followed it up with a clutch hit of his own and Braves are up by two.

Go Braves!

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

NHATE, would you please calm down with all the negativity already? You are the polar opposite of KC & his Sunshine Band. You are giving me an ulcer and a migraine with your negativity. Give it a rest already, NHATE!

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

NCSCOOTS

WHY IS COYLER IN?????

By journalist segundo persona

April 18, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

You are watching Colyer enter the game and you are thinking: Let the adventure begin!

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

why did we trade for gonzalez and not use him????

By Brad in MT

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

DOB…why isn’t Gonzalez in there?

By Scalp 'Em Braves

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

OK all you douchebags giving up on our chances tonight, bashing the bully, hitters, BC, etc. Never, ever, say it’s over, til it’s over. Villareal, who has been damned good so far, had a bad inning for our first blown save of the year. That is, in the 14th game of the year, our first blown save. Last year we had 29 blown saves. That is one every 5.6 games. So, we’re way ahead of the curve on that issue - can’t expect perfection every game.

PLUS our offense bailed the bully out - we’re ahead, so the blown save is not an issue. Can we have two blown saves in the same game? Guess it could happen, but hope not. I don’t think we’re going to see that kind of stuff this year out of the bullpen.

I am concerned about Dru. Don’t understand why he has this wide stance, doesn’t step into his swing, and basically screws himself into the ground every time he hits a nubber to SS or 3B with RISP to kill another potential rally. Whatever adjustments he made to his stance or swing in the offseason, he needs to unadjust.

By HP

April 18, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Breaking News: Mark Buehrle throws a no-hitter against Texas Rangers.

By BraveDawg

April 18, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

I’ve never posted before, but I’d like to point out that whoever posted that poll asking whether we ‘need some new blood in the dugout’ (re: Cox ‘08 extension) should be taken out back and really embarrassed. Maybe tied to a tree and taken advantage of by a pit bull.

By Gil in Mechanisville

April 18, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

OMG…..WILD THING

By N8

April 18, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally

It’s sarcasm and stats…..deal with it.

Or would you prefer me to end my posts with a HEE HAW?

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Gonzalez has to be hurt.

By fastasballs

April 18, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t know N8, it’s starting to look like 2006 tonight. Hope the pen doesn’t blow …………. Holy cow what a double play!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Ron

April 18, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

Efrim, agree with that about why did we trade Adam for this bum, I still cant believe we could not lock up LaRoche, McCann, and Frenchy, and let Andruw and Hamptons contracts run out, I will never understand!!! Of course we did lock up McCann, but we would have had plenty of money to lock up LaRoche and Frenchy, I do believe we will lock up Frenchy, but still how do you get rid of a guy like LaRoche, I know he is struggling, but he will snap out of it. I think Gonzalez is hurt, gotta be hurt!!!!!!!!

By MEB

April 18, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe what I just saw!

WOW!!!… what a double play! I almost hit my head on the ceiling after that one.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 18, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

My guess would be that Cox is trying to rest up Gonzales for the Mets series. He has pitched quite a bit in the last week. Don’t forget he threw something like 22 pitches on Monday. So, maybe, Cox was trying to give him back to back days rest in hopes that he won’t wear him out. This entire argument is kind of funny. If Gonzales and Soriano are always in then Cox gets ripped for “overusing” the pen and if he gives them an extra day’s rest he is ripped for “not using this bullpen that we traded away talent for”. You can’t have it both ways.

By journalist segundo persona

April 18, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

You are thinking that Moylan is the new Paronto. You see the score (8 to 6) and you think: is this not little league. You also wonder, why let Ward go and get Wilson. For a second you think - what if Terence Moore is correct? But then you think - no way. You think perhaps another beer would be good.

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

April 18, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

What a double play to end the top of the eighth. So far you have to like what you’ve seen tonight with the bats. Coming back after giving up the lead, that’s what we need. DOB.. did you actually pat yourself on the back for picking the Dodgers after 14 games???? They’re my pick in the west too, but let’s wait at least until they’ve played at least 20 games before the high 5’s. By the way, did you see The Shield last night? Man is Vic Mackey awesome. If he could hit the curve ball, I’d start campaigning for him to bat clean up for the Braves.

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Edgar made up for last nights’ sins on that double play, and Kelly can flat play 2nd base.

An inning to go tonight, but I predict that we’ll hear some kind of announcement about Gonzo’s arm “soreness” in the next day or two (doesn’t take Nostrodamus to make that prediction, btw; it’s been coming for a while). Hope not, but I bet.

(and he’ll probably pitch a scoreless 9th now, after I post that…)

By parks

April 18, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

nice post Scalp em,

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

I won’t take the bait from NHate ‘cause NHate can’t take the weight. ;-(

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

Yea, I def. see Gonzalez going on the DL with a tired shoulder or something like that. He isn’t in tonight, and he can’t hit his spots or run it up there in the high ninety’s like he did last year. AWFUL!!!!!!

By Efrim

April 18, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Come on Wickman. We need this win.

By JiffyLube

April 18, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

hope segundo doesn’t own any handguns

By Sir Stealth

April 18, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Gotta love how when we use the bullpen everyone screams that we’re overusing them, now we don’t pitch Gonzalez and everyone screams that we should get him in there. I know that there’s differences in how long it’s been since he’s pitched and everything but come on, this board is too often just a vent to find stuff to b*** about when there’s a lot more positives than negatives to talk about with this team right now. Hopefully Buffalo Bob can take us to 10-4.

By Eyyeball

April 18, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

Wickman is friggin’ dealin’

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Sir Stealth, I think the predictions about Gonzo also have something to do with how he’s pitched lately - well, all season. But again, hope you’re right, just coaches decision, did not play.

By Greg in TN

April 18, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Evening folks…

The Aybar situation is troubling, however not much we can do until the guy actually shows up. I don’t think JS and BC have ever experienced a situation like this.

So far tonight, the pitching isn’t in the category of world beaters, but the O is making up for what appears to be a less than Cy Young-esque by Davies and company.

So far, the difference between now and 2006 in my mind is the fact that, tonight aside, the pitching staff isn’t putting us in very many situations where the offense has no chance to come back. There have been a few, but there will be blowout days for every team. Sometimes you eat the shark, sometimes the shark eats you over a 162 game schedule.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 18, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

wicky! someone is blogging with someone’s self. is stinky back? this is a good team and fun to watch. will andruw make an adjustment and make the lineup fearsome? secret to tonight’s game: bobby really rubbed up that ball before handing it to moylan.

By Sir Stealth

April 18, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

woah, i didn’t realize that this board would automatically edit your vulgarities for you - hey, one less thing to worry about i guess

Buffalo Bob is the man. Give it up to Thor for getting over the Mendoza line tonight. Hopefully Andruw can learn from his example. Even with having to close our eyes for Redman tomorrow, worst case scenario we go into the Mets series in a virtual tie for first. Hopefully the bats can stay hot.

By MBATL

April 18, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

Hey, last year, we’d have blown that save twice, or three times if we had to.

Seems like a week ago, but I thought Davies pitched pretty well. Not great statistically, but he looked good, and kept us in the game. Not bad at all for a #5 starter.

By Willy Wally

April 18, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

The magic number is now 149!

By Greg in TN

April 18, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

To borrow from DOB…

Anyway you slice it, they’re 10-4.

Go Braves!

By F A Skippy

April 18, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

It occurs to me that GH did more than teach Johnson.He instilled in him how to be a pro baseball player.Well that was my contribution,now it’s back to the salt pit for me.

By jd

April 18, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

wickman is amazing…does this guy ever blow one?…the shake-down cruise phase continues…kj lookin good…diaz lookin great…yates, siriano,wickman,gonzo (hope he’s healthy) lookin good…we know andrew will hit…this aint 2006, guys…

By Robert

April 18, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

“All of his “quotes” are little slices of positive thinking he wants his players to hear and read—not even remotely based on reality.”

Amen to that brutha.

Aybar obviously has some kind of issue. I’d drug test the kid first chance I got

The one thing I can say in his defense is that time spent chatting with Bobby Cox is time wasted

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 18, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Hey folks. This just in from AJC….

Police Subdue Madman

*Atlanta, GA - Police were faced with the unenviable task tonight of rescuing a man from self destruction, or rescuing the man from himself. Shortly after the news broke that the Atlanta Braves had signed Bobby Cox to a one year extension to manage the team, bomb threats were received at the Braves front office. The threats were dismissed as being a “non-threat”, according to a confidential source within the organization.

Things turned more serious, however, after Mr. Cox was interviewed about the contract extension. Mr. Cox told the interviewer “You know, I’m not sure I’m going to quit after next year. With all the fun I’m having with this great group of guys, and this wonderful organization, I may just stay here until I die, if they’ll have me.” Braves management has stated that as long as Mr. Cox will have them, he has a job as manager for life.

Shortly after the airing of this interview on local television, a man was reported to have tied himself to the Marta track near the Lenox Square Station. Train service was shut down, backing up commuter traffic and stranding thousands of those trying to get home. The man, whose identity remains undisclosed due to privacy laws, was demanding that either Bobby Cox disavow his contract, and agree that he will step down as manager, or that he would stay tied to the tracks until he was run over and cut in half by a train. Witnesses who overheard the man’s demands were quoted as saying the man said “The donkey is going to pick his nose for another two years, and we might be subjected to a lifetime of braying.”

Police eventually subdued the man, by shooting him with a dart laced with sedatives. As the man was carried away by emergency personnel, the man was heard to shout “Domo Arigato Mr. Roboto”. It is unknown at this point whether the man has a history of mental illness. However, according to confidential sources from the Braves Blog, several of whom are familiar with this person, the man is well known for his singular obsessive compulsive behavior concerning Mr. Cox. The man was removed to a psychiatric facility, at which he will receive intensive common sense therapy intended to prove to him that Mr. Cox is not Slewfoot, and is not the sole reason for every Braves loss.*

By parks

April 18, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Sir stealth you beat me to that post. The Knee Jerk posts always keep this blog entertaining

By DZembro

April 18, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Poor Cubbies can’t catch a break. Thorman should have been rung up on that 2-2 pitch in the 7th. The ball almost pierced the heart of the plate. It should have been inning over. Instead the Braves go on to score 3 and win the game.

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Langerhans with the big catch in the corner to help preserve last night’s W.

Diaz with the big hustle tonight to help get the W.

Bobby Cox is a baseball genius. The Braves are best in baseball. Life is good.

Scribe, if you’re out there, the Braves abide.

-Selah

By journalist segundo persona

April 18, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

You are savoring the Braves’ victory. But then you wonder - did I calculate the alternative minimum tax correctly? Hmmm.

By Fans with $hit for brains

April 18, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

hampton 120 million a bust guaranteed money no all star . Vick 130 million not guaranteed money 3 pro bowl and AJC says Vick must GO why?

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 18, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Thank you very much Parks. You are a very astute person, and baseball fan. I can tell.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 18, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Can someone explain to me what sense it makes to move your #1 starter from the rotation to the bullpen after the start of the season? This is the kind of crap that causes the Phillies to always come up short.

By beachcomber

April 18, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Will be interested to hear the “official” explanation on why Gonzales wasn’t in the game tonight. What say the Braves, DOB?

By Robert

April 18, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

“I’ve never posted before, but I’d like to point out that whoever posted that poll asking whether we ‘need some new blood in the dugout’ (re: Cox ‘08 extension) should be taken out back and really embarrassed. Maybe tied to a tree and taken advantage of by a pit bull.”

I’d agree, except that Braves fans are hard to embarass. The team’s playoff humiliations should be cause for embarassment enough, but after all that, 90 percent of them PROUDLY declare their total allegiance to a man with the managerial capacity of a dull turnip.

It’s been obvious for 11 years that the team needs new blood in the manager’s seat.

Anyone to whom that isnt obvious should be, like Cox, declared legally retarded.

By TennesseePaul

April 18, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

GO BRAVES!!!

I love coming home to a Braves victory. I’d love even more being able to watch it, but this will have to do.
I see Thor got some hits down tonight. KJ is lighting the place up. BMac is still hitting.
It looks like that 1st inning homer pushed Francoeur back into the over-aggressive state.
And it also appears the Vulture circled today. But I’m glad we got the W.

Now, can some one tell me how Davies pitched? Was he alright until the last inning or was it nail biting the whole evening?

By choppinmama

April 18, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em: You scooped the morning AJC edition.
We all read the warning signs, but no one took him seriously. But, on the other hand, who are we to argue with someone bent on self-destruction?

By parks

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

hahahhahahahahaha!

Robert just got OWNED by Scalp em

Robert it is really time for you to move forward in life. I’m still trying to figure out why you still post here. The only two things I can come up with is you are either severely depressed or you are still a virgin

By Train Wreck Bystander

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

Great game tonight - had a real playoff feel.

But I am already tooking forward to Friday at Shea. When was the last time Chipper was healthy for a Mets series at Shea?

By F A Skippy

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

whoever posted the madman nonsense shame on you,responsible people need to understand when and when not to joke like that.It’s a free country but that’s getting close to yelling fire in a theater.

By joebrave

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

Davies did a fine job had some rough spots but overall a fine job.and I live not to far from Bobby Cox farm in Adairsville I personally know that Bobby has a donkey named Robert!!

By Gil in Mechanisville(Hokie)

April 18, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘Em Braves….Thank you… I have badly needed a good laugh since Monday. Your post was a belly buster.

By Brad in MT

April 18, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Great game tonight, this team just seems to know how to win…Robert you have got to be the most pathetic person around, get a life.

By BIG DADDY

April 18, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

Does N-8 stand for Negative X 8?

Just wondering since I have seen nothing positive from that fellow. I also wonder if the Braves were 20-8 if he would think they might win a few more games or if they were doomed for sure?

Hey Robert, how ya like BC’s new contract? I knew you would like that since it gives you some more ammo for the coming months. Has it occurred to you that most folks like BC? Oh no? Well, look at that poll where 90% think his new contract is just peachy. hahahahhahahah

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

Charlie Manuel & J-Rolls find new ways to get the loss in 13 tonight in Washington. I hope Charlie doesn’t have a dog at home.

By mrs_scmit

April 18, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand why AJC continues to condone joebraves’ foul language?

By flbravesgirl

April 18, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

Whew! How many of y’all needed blood pressure meds during this one? Moylan better be buying suits for his infielders for that double play. And Vultureal snags his first carcass of the year.

Way to come back, boys!!!

By fastasballs

April 18, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Can they stipulate in Cox’s contract that he try to keep the nose picking to a minimum? The other thing that drives me crazy about Cox is that “Who farted”? look on his face whenever the camera pans to him after a bad call by the home plate ump.

By tyyosh

April 18, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Seems like a few people are still trending negative on Francouer or seeing only faults. Even as a learner, not a finished product, his OBP is rapidly improving, (as predicted) he is starting to use right field, he is almost leading the league in RBI, he is starting to get walks an take pitches, and he is still the guy to have batting when late-and-close, not to mention the arm. Things sure seem great and getting better. This is going to be a great ride, and after a monster year maybe he will get his 6 year deal next.

By Ron

April 18, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

Robert needs to join the Bash Bobby Cox website instead of being on this blog. And if their is not one Robert should create a Bash Bobby Cox website, because this s** is gettin to DAMN old!!! Robert talk about a little bit of baseball that does not have to concern Cox, or go to that website that I am talkin about!!!!!!!

By Ron

April 18, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Robert(JISB), Dude your guess is as good as mine, I was thinkin the exact same thing, Somethin is bad wrong in Philly land, and I mean somethin is BAD wrong!!!!!!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 18, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

The way some of you brainless ingrates have bashed Bobby Cox on this blog—I hope you end up with Charlie Manuel after Cox is gone!…

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

Moylan might’ve been shopping for leotards in NYC if not for that double play.

By Robert

April 18, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

Actually, the post by Scalp “Em had in stitches. That was good.

Before Cox announced that was leaning towards retiring, I had said that if he got re-upped past ‘07, I’d be gone as a Braves fan

Then I figured what the heck, I could take one more year knowing that the suffering would then be over

I dont expect Cox to do anything on my behalf, but I wish he’d announce things one way or another. That way I could either just bear thru two more years or just cut ties to the team and move on with no lingering doubts or regrets

Maybe I’ll become a Devil Rays fan. They’ll win the WS sooner than the Braves will with Cox as manager

By Ron

April 18, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Robert(JISB), Last time I saw Myers, he pitched a gem against the Braves in the Small park, it aint his faught he got a ND. I dont know what his record, or how good he has pitched, but I would not think he has pitched that bad. I guess Manuel is sending a message that he is tired of losin, well that should get them fired up or get him fired, one of the two!!!!!

By fastasballs

April 18, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

So how long has Robert’s fetish for Cox been going on? I started reading the blog last year & recall him bashing Cox then.

Maybe he is really infactuated with Cox & this is his way of showing affection?

By Ron

April 18, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Robert, I know you are CRAZY now, the Devil Dogs will win the World Series before Atlanta, DAMN dude that is a new low even for you!!! Yes the D-Rays got young position players, but have got no pitching behind Kazmir, OH YEAH and they play in the A.L.East good luck makin the playoffs behind those teams. You are smokin some of that GOOD Stuff, Please tell me where I can get some of that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Robert

April 18, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

“Can they stipulate in Cox’s contract that he try to keep the nose picking to a minimum? The other thing that drives me crazy about Cox is that “Who farted”? look on his face whenever the camera pans to him after a bad call by the home plate ump.”

Whenever I see that look, I’m thinking “Bobby dont. WhatEVER you are thinking of doing, just sit down and let the grown ups work”

As long as there’s other folks that dont buy into the myth, hope lives

By The Stranger

April 18, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

And almost lost in all the fun tonight was choppinmama bringing the Rally ‘Tard back into fashion.

Hey, the Angels won it all with a monkey. Why not the Rally ‘Tard?

By Don

April 18, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

In another poll, 99% of Braves fans correctly stated that “noone” is not a word, it is two words. The lone idiot who insisted “noone” is a word based on the fact that he uses it regularly and is never wrong was last seen shrieking that Bobby Cox should be replaced as Braves manager by Charlie Manuel, Bobby Valentine or Larry Bowa.

By Banner

April 19, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

Robert is wasting valuable blog space, he should be banned!

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

For those wondering, Cox said he wasn’t going to use Gonzalez or Soriano tonight, that both needed rest, and that Gonzalez probably wouldn’t be available tomorrow either….

Kelly Johnson raised his average 95 points in two nights, from .150 to .245. His on-base percentage is .373 and his OPS is .802.

Raise your hands if you still believe he should be dropped from the leadoff role. Folks, it’s crazy to get carried away and make snap judgments on a guy after the first 10-12 games, especially one who missed the entire 2006 season and is playing a new position.

Robert, for the love of all that is good and pure, please do us a favor and follow through with your “threat”: cut ties and move on. Or at least just pull against your nemesis Cox among other bashers (good luck finding them) on another blog. Please not here. Nothing personal. You’ve had occasional (but increasingly infrequent) interesting points and conversations with folks. But lately, just way over the top with the neverending, often-illogical diatribes against Cox.

To me, it just seems like you’re wasting everyone’s time with the same stuff. Y ou continue to swing at windmills and convince absolutely no one of your point. Please, something new on the subject, or drop it. I’m just asking, pleading with you.

By N8

April 19, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

BIG DADDY

“Does N-8 stand for Negative X 8?”

Now THAT is funny. Good one.

“Just wondering since I have seen nothing positive from that fellow. I also wonder if the Braves were 20-8 if he would think they might win a few more games or if they were doomed for sure?”

You’re OBVIOUSLY not reading the blog everyday. I praise plenty where it is deserved.

Cox left Davies in too long tonight. PERIOD. If the Cubs bullpen doesn’t suck (and Diaz wasn’t hustling) it would’ve resulted in a loss.

Andruw flat out, no two ways about it, regardless of the big “numbers” ABSOLUTELY SUCKS with RISP. Look at the numbers. They don’t lie. PERIOD.

Langerhans has made one “game saving” catch in 14 games. Other than that, he’s contributed as much as Willy Aybar has. PERIOD.

I was looking forward to the Redman acquisition. OOOPS!

I’ve stated that Thorman/Wilson aren’t as good defensively as LaRoche was (and so far - other than 2 Thorman HR’s - their bats aren’t helping either). You wanna argue with me on that?

An update to an earlier post (actually two of them). We are now 10-4, which is great. It doesn’t matter HOW you win in the regular season, building a lead in the division is always a plus. But don’t fool yourself into thinking we are this good. We have played the Phillies, Mets, Nats, Marlins and now the Cubs. ONLY the Mets have a winning record. ALL of those teams are a combined 26-39. That comes out to a .400 winning percentage. To put it in perspective, we were 79-83 last year….a .487 winning percentage. Do you think we were a good team last year?

Now a glass half full guy would say that things are looking up, since we are WINNING and not playing GREAT BALL. I think we have been living very dangerously.

Sometimes it’s easier to feel “good” about a well played loss, than a sloppy victory. One side of me is happy we’re winning. That gives us fans good baseball games to watch/listen to on a nightly basis.

I’m looking at the big picture. Even though we missed the playoffs last year, I’m not looking to just “get back”. EVERY SPRING I expect this team to play hard, play smart and put themselves in a position to win the big prize.

I realize that before the world series can be one you have to get to the post-season. But even though it’s still April (hell the 25 man roster could change BIG TIME before October), this team has shown me NOTHING that they can beat GOOD, playoff caliber pitching, come October. Good pitchers are NOT gonna let Chipper and McCann beat them, Francoeur is NOT gonna see a first pitch fastball within 5 feet of the plate against a seasoned veteran in the playoffs.

Mike Gonzalez looks like Mike Stanton, without the “stuff”. I hope that changes.

But at the end of the day, we ARE 10-4. That is a good thing.

If you guys wanna wear your rose-colored glasses to bed everynight that’s fine.

Oh….that’s right, you wanted some “positives”, right?

Good thing Clarence Jones isn’t the hitting coach anymore, isn’t it?

Seriously, Smoltz, Hudson, James, Wickman, Soriano, Renteria, Chipper, McCann and Francoeur have been just fine. Even Davies is better than I thought he’d be.

That’s 10 “positive” things. Which is fine, if your somebody who’s happy with 10 guys out of 25 on your 25 man roster being ML caliber players.

PS…I left Andruw off that list for a reason. His agent says he’ll command 20 million per after this season. Andruw says he’d “love to stay”. I’ll take him off the list, when he starts earning the 15 million salary he’s averaged the last few years. Until then, him and his lifetime .255 w/ RISP batting average can go earn 20 million ELSEWHERE.

KJ is somewhere in the middle. His defense is much better than I thought it would be, but I didn’t think it would be that bad. Hopefully the last couple of days have been a sign of what is to come with the bat.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m happy with the 10-4 start. Who wouldn’t be, on the surface. Hell, last years team would’ve been 4-10 at this point in these type of games. Kudos to the new bullpen (all the walks aside - which needs to get taken care of, or it WILL come back to bite us sooner or later).

Call it scrappy, call it timely, call it clutch. This team has it. I’m all for winning “ugly” once in a while, but not 3 out of 4 victories. Every now and then, it would be nice to score some runs early, get 7 innings out of the starter, and finish it off with two 1-2-3 innings from the pen.

Is that too much to ask for, once a week? I don’t think so.

Hope that clarifies it for you.

By Robert

April 19, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Ron - It’s very simple. The Braves will never win another WS as long as Cox manages. Period. I have offered to wager on this, but noone accepts.

“I hope you end up with Charlie Manuel after Cox is gone!”

Charlie Manuel would be a VAST improvement over Bobby Cox.

WILLIE AYBAR would be a better manager than Bobby Cox

Billy Heywood was a better manager than Bobby Cox

Jerry Glanville was a better manager than Cox

Well maybe not Glanville

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

I think that Rally ‘Tard is what Robert calls Cox.

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

Any way you slice it, WE’RE 10-4.

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

My God, NHate, how cheery would you be if they were 4-10?

By BobbyDudes

April 19, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

N8 when you are not blogging, if that ever occurs, do you spend the rest of your time staring into the mirror at yourself? You’re as bad as robert.

By Don

April 19, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

“I have offered to wager, but noone (sic) accepts.”

Psycho Boy, pick any team in baseball you like and I’ll bet you straight up they won’t win the World Series in the next two years.

Idiot.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

Robert, that was a thoughtful, intelligent post. Fine job. You’re a real student of the game, aren’t you?

You were right the other day about the Hall _ no reason that well-versed, logical baseball minds such as yours shouldn’t be permitted to vote for the Hall.

I hope you’re not driving anywhere tonight, judging from that last post about Manuel and Aybar. And honestly, is that all you’ve got in the humor dept? My god, man, it’s getting worse. Zero humor. None.

I JUST SCROLLED UP AND CAME TO THIS, from the fountain of baseball knowledge and wisdom, Robert:

“Aybar obviously has some kind of issue. I’d drug test the kid first chance I got.”

Mr. Pot, meet Mr. Kettle.

By fastasballs

April 19, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

WILLIE AYBAR would be a better manager than Bobby Cox

TP could have Aybar fax in the line up card from his undisclosed location. Where the hell is this guy? Jail? Well at least he is not getting paid while he is on vacation.

Maybe they can send Andruw & Langy out to find Aybar. While they are at it they might can locate their bats. Somehow I think Aybar would be easier to locate.

By N8

April 19, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

Willy Wally

You OBVIOUSLY didn’t read the blog last year did you? LOL!

Dude, I’m not crabby. I don’t beat my kids. I don’t kick the dog. I don’t throw remotes against the wall and shatter them……well…just that once, during the 96 World Series.

I (like everybody else), got spoiled watching the Braves teams of the 90’s (early to mid 90’s), play seemingly flawless, smart, FUNDAMENTALLY SOUND baseball for the majority of the 162 game schedule (I’ll let Robert explain the playoffs to you……AGAIN!).

Maybe I expect too much. Maybe not. Langerhans and KJ? They’re young, they’re not supposed to be superstars (like McCann is and Francoeur is on his way to becoming). Andruw on the other hand, is a guy that is going to BREAK THE BANK in 7 months. The LEAST THING HE COULD DO is really break the bank by having a monster season in his last year in a Braves uniform.

Never mind that he’s NEVER been interested in taking the ball the other way like Pujols and other good hitters do. He’d just as soon HACK away and guess, and wait for the glaring mistake pitch to hammer out of the park. He’s got enough power to STILL hit 35-40 HR if he took the ball the other way, add to that, he’d add about 25-30 RBI to his total. But 3 hitting coaches and ONE enabling manager (when it comes to Hack-n-Jack), and he STILL doesn’t get it…….he never will. CHA-CHING!

I said it once earlier tonight, I’ll say it again. I’m a stat hound, who LIVES for sarcasm. If it’s too much for you to handle, skip over my posts.

By Braves fan 202

April 19, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

DOB now that i see you dont like robert. Please ban him(cant you do that?)! i cant imagine what is wrong with him. All i say is, GET HELP ROBERT! im not going to argue against your ‘good points’. Its’s not worth arguing. in the back of my mind im still hoping your just messing with us. God i hope so.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Don, I was going to make that same point, but this dude’s so obsessed with the World Series, it’s ridiculous. Win the World Series or you’re a failure. He’s That Guy in the arguments.

Nevermind that a different team has won the World Series for how many years in a row now? If he was a Dodgers fan, their franchise would be a total failure to him for nearly a generation. Houston? Abject failure. Cardinals? Failures.

Since the Marlins have won two World Series in 1997 and 2003, they’d have to be the model franchise in Robot’s eyes. Nevermind those small matters of attendance and massive losses in most of their non-title seasons, and the fact they can’t get a stadium built and don’t draw flies. They’re a success.

Later. Robert, consider your string pulled. Chime on for another hour or so until your batteries wear down. Braves are 10-4, and you’re miserable that that ‘ol poll on the AJC isn’t reflecting your views on the manager, I bet.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

Well Don I must say that you have just made one of the dumbest statements I’ve seen yet on this blog—-“pick any team in baseball you like and I’ll bet you straight up they won’t win the World Series in the next two years.”…

So has the World Series been cancelled for the next two years?—cause ‘some team’ sure as hell has to win the damn thing!…

Damn!…I want in on this bet!!…Psycho boy

By Braves fan 202

April 19, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Haha great post on robert DOB

By Don

April 19, 2007 12:33 AM | Link to this

SJA, clearly you’re not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but perhaps somebody can explain the meaning of my simple comment so that even you can understand it.

Or probably not.

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

n8, i know you are a great blogger. i have read most of your stuff. just playing with you although you were awfully negative tonight.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Just saw Charlie Manuel on Comcast, and he is having a meltdown—just invited some people to his office to observe his “anger”—then had to be restrained in the locker room to keep from kicking some journalistic A$s!…

By N8

April 19, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

BobbyDudes

“…do you spend the rest of your time staring into the mirror at yourself?”

Everyday dude. I take my work VERY SERIOUSLY. When people pay me money for a job, I spend endless ammounts of time, researching and practicing to make sure that I do the best job that I can do. When I don’t do the job up to par with the fees I’m charging, I expect and UNDERSTAND when people complain or want money back.

But the difference is that I don’t sell merchandise (shirts, posters, hats) with my name on it. I’m not on TV 24/7 on ESPN. I’m not commanding 20 million a year for my skills. When all of that happens, I’ll completely understand if Langerhans and Andruw come on my blog and say I suck.

Sometimes the truth hurts not only the accused, but their slurpers too.

Am I NOT entitled to comment on a play, an innig, a game, a series, a month, or a season, that I’m not liking what I see?

I’ll REPEAT…..the 10-4 record is dandy. Really, it is.

But if ANYBODY can come on here and say that we are the “best team in baseball” as the record states, you’re dillusional. PERIOD.

I said the other night, good teams “create their own luck”. I still believe that. But at some point, the “good luck” has to run out. Sooner or later you actually have to start playing good baseball, especially when playing teams as good or better than you.

Either you all will see the light, or I will stand corrected, as soon as we play some good teams.

AGAIN, I’m not saying that we are NOT a good team. We are. We are SILLY GOOD compared to last year. But we are not a “win at a .710” pace good. PERIOD. Unless you think we are gonna win 115 games this year, you can’t ARGUE with me.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Go ahead DonDumbass—explain that one…

By Don

April 19, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

SJA, read it again, then come back to me and tell me that you’re really too stupid to understand it. Go ahead, he who appropriately calls himself jackass.

By Braves fan 202

April 19, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

I am lovin KJ. I never thought i would be so happy with him after a two game turn-a-round. Its not that he has had a two game hot streak, he just showed what he is capable of. His extra base hits and moving runners are allowing him to not have to steal(although it would be nice). With his swing you can just tell what he will bring to the table throughout the year.

Thank you Scott Thorman for showing us all why Craig Wilson should be in Rome. His offense and defense helped prove his spot as a starter. He will also become a better hitter as he gets more at bats. I think the main part of the braves low average is bobby keeps switchin the starters on us(not complaining about booby, i still love the man). He knows what he is doing though, his 14 rings prove that…Robert.

i also think Diaz established his everyday job in right now. He is very underrated. He is not just a youngster starting off good, he just keeps going and going. That hustle he showed today was the best thing ive seen all year. Although i think he was out, still though.

By fastasballs

April 19, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Have they ever faced the Cub’s pitcher for tomorrow night? Hill? I hope so because they make every pitcher they have never faced look like Cy Young.

They are going to need some runs to counter the 5-6 Redman will give up by the 5th.

By jon

April 19, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Was at the game tonight…really good one! I’m very concerned with Mike Gonzalez…not with the ineffective part, but I have a gut feeling his shoulder or elbow is bothering him. Why in the world would he need a rest? He had several days off, then had one appearance and gets Wed, tonight, and DOB said Friday off too. Something is fishy! I just know its not like Bobby to lose confidence this quick..there has to be something else going on! Also, Aybar…thats the craziest thing I’ve ever heard! Its been bizarre with him since the beginning of Spring Training and the Visa problems…

By N8

April 19, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

Willy Wally

“n8, i know you are a great blogger. i have read most of your stuff. just playing with you although you were awfully negative tonight.”

I appreciate that. ALL OF IT. I wasn’t kidding with liking the N-Hate nickname either. BRILLIANT!

I was especially negative tonight, we had Zambrano on the ropes and didn’t put him away. It almost came back to roost. But it didn’t…(sigh).

Again. Just like you were “playing with me”, I like to throw the sarcasm/negativity out there, just to get people going.

Call me blabby, call me stupid, call me pompous (if you dare), call me the blog hog. Like me or not, I bring some color to the blog. Unfortunately for Terrance Moore, it’s the wrong color.

The thing most of you assume that I don’t get and I do get it, is that the other team is trying to win too. Things won’t always go our way, I get that too.

Like I said earlier about sometimes feeling better about losing a well played game as opposed to winning an ugly game (except in the playoffs. LOL!), I meant.

If Andruw would ground out hard to the right side of the infield, (when being pitched outside), to end the inning with a runner in scoring position, I would FEEL GOOD ABOUT HIS APPROACH. If your approach is good, good things will come.

But when he (an 11 year veteran about to make 20 million per year), STILL rolls over the top on a low and away curveball and dribbles a grounder to the SS……I WON’T and should say ANYTHING NICE ABOUT IT.

I’m sorry, I’m not Shaun, I don’t think Francoeur hitting 30 HR swinging at the first pitch, is a fair trade off for the other 570 AB’s in which he pops up or grounds out on the first pitch (yeah, I exxagerated a little - but you get the point).

Getting beat because the other team beat you, is acceptable. LOSING because you beat yourself, by refusing to change your “bad habits” or approach, is ignorant and frustrating.

What’s worse is when that approach works and you have success with it. Then when you face superior talent and it DOESN’T work, you hear quotes like “crap-shoot” and “aw shucks”.

A pitcher throwing Andruw a low and away curveball has as predictable of an outcome as an uncle pointing to his 3 year old nephew’s chest, and when the kid looks down he flicks him in the nose with his finger. How’s the old saying go? “Like taking candy from a baby”. Except this baby is asking for 20 million dollars.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

It is what it is—still!…

By brent a.

April 19, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

The good news is …

Redman won’t be pitching in Shea Stadium this week-end.

Rest the good pitchers tomorrow, Bobby, and take a healthy bullpen to New York.

By Ron

April 19, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

OK Robert, so you say you would rather have Manuel who has 3 wins with a very good team over Cox who has 10 wins when some Braves have not done anything yet. Oh yeah Manuel put his #1 starter in the Bullpen, that was very smart, huh? If Cox put Smoltz back in the Bullpen you would be all over Cox, and hell I would be too!!! I know it is stupid of me to argue with you but man that Manuel over Cox makes totally no sense AT ALL!!!!!!!!

By BobbyDudes

April 19, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

N8 when is the book signing?

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Dean Smith - 2 for 36

Don Shula - 2 for 33

Bobby Knight - 3 for 41

Coach K - Zero championships in his first 15 years as a coach. Only one championship in his last 15 years at Duke.

Bear Bryant - Zero championships in his first 16 years as a head coach

Steve Spurrier - One championship in 17 years as a coach.

Bobby Bowden - 2 championships in 37 years, only 1 in the last 13 years.

Tom Osborne - Zero championships in his first 20 years at Nebraska

Joe Paterno - 2 championships in 41 years. Zero in his first 15 years. Zero in his last 20.

Bill Cowher - 1 championship in 15 years

Bill Parcells - 1 championship in his last 15 years of coaching

Pat Riley - one championship in his last 15 years.

They are all a bunch of retarded donks, right? Get a little perspective, Robot.

By Braves fan 202

April 19, 2007 12:58 AM | Link to this

Southern Jackass and Don. Stop with the pointless b1tching. Arguing is ok but remember we’re backing the same team. Man i hope we beat the mets this weekend cuz i love not hearing from NO CHOP ZONE

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:02 AM | Link to this

Let me get this straight. Aybar is A.W.O.L , Langerhans is hitting .074 , Redman has a 12.96 ERA , McBride is in Richmond , Andruw is hitting .180 with 16 strikeouts , Hampton is out for the season , Wilson and Thorman are hitting a combined .192 , Paronto is on the DL , Moylan has an ERA of 27.00 , our lead off hitter just started hitting and the Braves are 10 and 4 ? Dear God , just wait until things start to go right and then we will see what the club is capable of.

By Ron

April 19, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Well Don, I like the bet, but I gotta agree with SJA, not sayin it is the stupidest idea, just sayin that there are alot of good teams that he could pick and that has a good chance at winning the World Series. He would have two chances to get it right. Two too many.

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Tom Landry - 2 for 29

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this

“remember we’re backing the same team”—well Braves fan 202…you must have me confused with someone else, or maybe you have a mouse in your pocket, I’ve never said I’m a Braves fan…I’m a baseball fan, there’s a huge difference…and while you’re trying to play the part of blog referee, explain to me what DonDumbass said in his brilliant 12:18 A.M. post…

By Robert

April 19, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Chief, I hate to break this to you, but division winners dont get rings

14 rings.

Shakes his head. And I’ll probably get ridiculed for this, cuz 70 percent of y’all probably think the Braves HAVE 14 rings

The Cox myth is the greatest hoax ever pulled on the american people.

(unless you belive that we didnt land on the moon or in any of the Kennedy conspiracy theories)

By N8

April 19, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

BobbyDudes

“N8 when is the book signing?”

The day Andruw tries to go to right field in 4 straight AB’s, and Francouer lays off of the first pitch in 4 straight AB’s.

That oughta buy me some time, don’t you think?

By Lew

April 19, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

Nathan-You may not beat your wife and children, but Dude you sure do ramble. For your own sake, it’s time to take the Wellbutrin and hit the bed. Good night.

By Robert

April 19, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

“They are all a bunch of retarded donks, right? Get a little perspective, Robot.”

Perspective. Ok. Here’s perspective. How many times did each of those coaches that you mentioned start a season with hands down the best team?

What’s their record then? What’s their record when they had, maybe not hands dopwn the best, but clearly one of the two or three best teams?

Aint a single one of em 1 for 15 in THAT situation

By tyyosh

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

SJA, I can’t hold back from explaining anymore… seems so straightforward. Pick ONE team - any ONE team - and bet that they WILL win the WS in 2007 or 2008. That’s it. Depending on the team, the odds are fairly to very good that you will be wrong, and your one chosen team will NOT win in either 2007 or 2008. That is why when Robert (was it him?) says “THE BRAVES WILL NOT WIN THE WS IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS”, the odds are probably good that he will be correct, irrespective of who is managing, so his point is invalid. For example: Probably 90% of people would have picked the Yankees in the last 6 years, and they would have all lost.

OK now I guess I am a new target also now, so fire away and I will check back in the morning. - Peace

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

Bobby Cox has two world series rings.

By BobbyDudes

April 19, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

N8 maybe you can get a couple more chapters written tonight.

By Robert

April 19, 2007 1:28 AM | Link to this

The only three managers or coaches that I can think of that come CLOSE to Cox in terms of ineptitude with championship caliber teams are

Marv Levy, Marty Coxenheimer, and Dale Brown

I dont LIKE Coach K, but have great respect for what he has done.

Bobby Knight - I wish Knight managed baseball. He’d tell it like it is. I can picture Knight managing the Yankees in the 1996 WS - down 2-1 and behind in the late going of game 4, he’d say “Boys, look over into the other dugout. You see who’s over there? We’re gonna be ok”

(For those who dont know, Knight did something like this once in an NCAA basketball game when his Indiana team was losing late to Dale Brown’s LSU Tigers)

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

Mike Gonzalez is going in for an MRI later on today , he will be unavailable for today’s game. Brace yourselves , Braves Nation , I smell bad news coming a mile away.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

tyyosh—I understood from the beginning exactly what Don was trying to say—I just wanted to see how far I could draw in a sucker without a hook on the line—didn’t realize there would be 3 or 4 big mudsuckers holding on for dear life…be careful you don’t get cut on that ‘dull knife’…

By Robert

April 19, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

“Pick ONE team - any ONE team - and bet that they WILL win the WS in 2007 or 2008.”

I offered that bet LONG before there was any mention of Cox being around only two more years (Lord, please!)

I’d give you a hundred years of Cox and take the bet.

The 62 Mets could beat a Cox team in the WS. (even tho only 5 of their 8 starting nonpitchers are still alive, and every one of them is over 65 years old)

By Robert

April 19, 2007 1:37 AM | Link to this

“Bobby Cox has two world series rings”

I tell you what. The 1977 Yankees probably wouldnt have won 40 games if it werent for Donkl being in the first base coaches box

By Bravo Nam

April 19, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

Robert

So, you’re one of the 9% of Braves fans who’s not an idiot? Aha, so you enjoy repeatedly blogging and bashing the same point with a cast of idiots. We’re idiots, so we don’t know any better. And you?

You were a former Mets fan…that explains everything!!

DOB

Reading between the lines, it seems that Aybar hasn’t really fit in since arriving with the Braves. His play has been good, but lack of passion, patchy relationship with team, and questionable recovery time from injury suggest his days are numbered- antithesis of what Braves are about. Any sense you get that they might trade him?

By Train Wreck Bystander

April 19, 2007 1:43 AM | Link to this

Robert, Robert, Robert.

Google is full of archived press reports of teams getting their NL / AL chanpionship rings.

Here’s one to get you started.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

The Cubs Rich Hill 2-0 0.64 ERA VS the Braves Mark Redman 0-2 12.96 ERA……..Can I get a rain check , please !

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 1:47 AM | Link to this

So Robert is supposedly a bunch of pimply-faced college boys that never get laid—are your names…Louis Skolnick…Lamar Latrell…Dudley ‘Booger’ Dawson…Fred ‘The Ogre’ Palowakski…and Arnold Poindexter??…by any chance…

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD MORNING BRAVONAM!

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:51 AM | Link to this

Can we get Wilson Betemit if we give Aybar back to the Dodger’s ?

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 1:55 AM | Link to this

Coach: What’s this you say?

By Robert

April 19, 2007 1:57 AM | Link to this

“Google is full of archived press reports of teams getting their NL / AL chanpionship rings.”

Um, how do I say this

Division titles are not the same as LEAGUE titles.

Pennants are not the same as World Series titles

Is the politically correct philosophy, where everyone has to be recognized as a “champion” for every marginal achievement? Or is it just plain stupidity?

By Train Wreck Bystander

April 19, 2007 2:04 AM | Link to this

Robert, I hate to break this to you but:

Division Winners DO get rings - despite what you said here.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 2:06 AM | Link to this

The Braves face a lefty today , Saturday , Sunday and Monday. The Braves have already faced a lefty in half of the fourteen games played already , does it ever end ?

By Robert

April 19, 2007 2:09 AM | Link to this

“Division Winners DO get rings “

And every kid in the Special Olympics gets a ribbon (as I am sure you know from personal experience)

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 2:09 AM | Link to this

So Gonzo WILL have an MRI

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 2:11 AM | Link to this

Robert, you are a moron if you do not realize that most of those coaches had the best talent in their leagues in many of those seasons.

If they didn’t, then whose fault was that? Almost every single one of those coaches I named picked their players.

Coach K, Shula, Riley, Dean, Knight, Parcells, Bowden, Spurrier, Bryant, Osborne, Paterno all for the most part had almost total control for most of their years of the coaching and the personnel development, recruiting, signing, and trading.

SO, if they failed to have the best talent around them, that would have been their failure. No one to blame but themselves. Making them more of a retarded donk than Cox if you are the kind of freak who likes to call great coaches retarded donks.

Of course you fail to see that because you know if you acknowledge that, you are in trouble because you often say that Cox was a very good GM. SO, could it be that if Cox got to pick his own groceries like those other coaches, that maybe he would have been more successful than all of those other coaches?

Did you ever stop to think about whether any of the fault lies with John S. as well? Many of those teams you say were so great, had many weaknesses in their pen and on the bench - which killed them in the late innings of postseason games. Every team in the postseason has a great lineup and a great rotation. The difference maker is usually the pen and the bench - the fatal flaw for the Braves throughout the 1990s.

Also, stop pretending that the Braves have been one of the top 3 or 4 teams in MLB since the turn of the century because they have not been. Your analysis only works for the teams of the 90s.

But alas you are too blind. You are like the bungling detective at a murder crime scene who identifies one suspect, ignores any and all other possible suspects and never solves the case and lets the real murderer or murderers walk because you are too busy making the pieces fit to frame the innocent or, at least, less culpable person for committing the murder.

What will you do if John S. is the one who leaves first, and Bobby becomes the GM/manager who gets to pick his own groceries? I betcha if he had that dual role, things might have been a little different around here.

And that does not say anything bad about John S. With John S., we probably had a better chance of sustained success. With Bobby, we might have had a better chance of a blaze of great glory.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 2:13 AM | Link to this

10-4 , it’s the pitching , stupid !

By geauxbraves2000

April 19, 2007 2:17 AM | Link to this

Just saw that TennesseePaul. I agree with Coach, I smell bad news.

Nonetheless, good win tonight by the Braves. Tomorrow doesn’t look so good for Braves fans on paper, but that is why they play the game.

With the Aybar indefinite suspension, does that open up a roster spot on the 40 man?

Geaux Braves!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 19, 2007 2:25 AM | Link to this

Robert is a damn genius!…he has suckered all of you into his stupidity…you’re feeding the monster…ignore him, and he will disappear…

By Willy Wally

April 19, 2007 2:32 AM | Link to this

SJA, agreed.

By jed

April 19, 2007 2:53 AM | Link to this

10 and 4! see? kelly’s gonna be good…

By Coach

April 19, 2007 4:10 AM | Link to this

Aybar’s suspension doesn’t open a spot on the 40 man unless he is released or traded. He is already off the 25 man roster. Aybar has options for the rest of this season. At any rate , the Betemit trade is starting to look ugly all the way around. Betemit is hitting .071 with two hits in twenty-eight at bats for the Dodgers.

By Robert

April 19, 2007 4:50 AM | Link to this

“Did you ever stop to think about whether any of the fault lies with John S. as well?”

You know, I didnt used to think so. But reading JS’s comments about Cox’s managerial abilities, my opinion is changing

Dude, the teams since 2000 nare irrlevent. Cox showed his hand when he could do nothing with all the greta 90’s teams. I’m telling you 1995 was an ACCIDENT. The Braves pitchers ran the table three straight times thru the rotation, culminating in the combined one hitter in WS Game 6. Given an assist or from Hargrove (who is nearly as big an idiot as Cox) and the Braves won

Those other coaches you mentioned - It is ridiculous to compare Cox to Coach K. The NCAA’s start with 64 teams, and Coach K’s teams went to the Final Four HOW MANY times? That’s winning 4 games in a row. Bobby Knight’s teams are almost ALWAYS significantly better at the end of a season than they were at the start (even when the best they can be is not championship caliber) Rarely does a Knight team leave a reasonable opportunity on the table

The NFL has had much greater parity in the league than what is seen in baseball.

No manager or coach anywhere, at any time, has been given the quality of teams for so many consecutive seasons and done so little with them as has Bobby Cox

Dale Brown, Marty Coxenheimer, and Marv Levy come CLOSE to Cox in terms of ineptitude. CLOSE, but not by means equal.

The Braves ought to dress Cox not in a Braves uniform, but in one of those harlequin style court jester outfits

By Robert

April 19, 2007 4:57 AM | Link to this

“What will you do if John S. is the one who leaves first, and Bobby becomes the GM/manager who gets to pick his own groceries?”

Cox did fine as GM, so I wouldnt necessarily be opposed to him returning to a front office role. As long as he isnt allowed in the dugout or on the field during games, it’s all good

Having said that, I think it’s time to just be rid of him. If he lingers in the front office, then some element of his managerial philosophy would be more likely to linger

This team needs to move on. With Cox, they achieved to a level that was financially successful and that some fans choose to accept as the ultimate on-fioeld success. I dont it that way. 2 championships is better than 100 playoff berths with one championship.

I also think the only way the Braves will ever win anothewr WS title is if Cox is out as manager

That’s my opinion. It doesnt make me crazy. It isnt a valid reason for y’all to hate on me. And guess what - it COULD be wrong? There’s nothing in the track record to suggest it - I;d bet money that my opinion, if given a chance, will prove to be accurate - but it could be wrong - Let’s bet if you think it is

By Coach

April 19, 2007 6:04 AM | Link to this

I’m gonna say something that is going to stir some controversy. Ryan Langerhans has no business being in a major league uniform , period. Willy brought up the strikeout ratio and I took a look at Langerhans numbers in the minors (4.22) and the majors(3.71) and my jaw almost hit the floor. In nine professional seasons this kid hasn’t learned how to hit his way out of a garbage can. His strike out to walk ratio is brutal (2 to 1) and he doesn’t hit for nearly enough power(.402 SLG) to justify all his strike outs. his .261 batting average is barely respectable and the guy is no base stealing threat at all. He strikes out every four at bats , doesn’t hit for power , can’t bunt or steal and doesn’t draw nearly enough walks due to his total lack of plate discipline. Langerhans glove work and strong throwing arm make him a great defender in the outfield , he just can’t his way out of a paper sack. He’s had nine professional seasons and the jury is in : He doesn’t belong in the majors.

By Chad

April 19, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this

DOB What are the braves gonna do if the MRI on Gonzalez’s elbow turns out to be something that requires surgery? I guess this explains the reduced velocity this year. Are there any trade options or will we use someone “in house” to replace him?

By Jeff R

April 19, 2007 8:04 AM | Link to this

Right now, what’s the alternative to Langerhans? I’m all for Diaz starting, but otherwise?

The franchise is off to a 10-4 start even with some problems. Redman is more of a problem, in my estimation, then Langerhans. The guy is a sure bet to be shelled every four or five days.

By Barrett

April 19, 2007 8:14 AM | Link to this

Robert, you are like that kid in the fourth grade that argues that 2+3=4 just to get a laugh right? Your relentless attempt to convert one person to join your one man, anti-Cox army isn’t going over too well. Maybe you should try another approach(Like actual facts that back up your uneducated opinion). I suppose that the writers didn’t know what they were doing when they voted him manager of the year FOUR times. 100 wins 6 times.(Torre has 4)95+ wins 11 times. Fact is, HE WAS A GOOD MANAGER IN TORONTO FIVE YEARS BEFORE HE CAME TO ATLANTA The only bad teams he managed were the atlanta braves in the late 70’s and early 80’s. In his 26 years as manager, Bobby Cox has only had 6 LOSING SEASONS

Isn’t it funny how Cox’s first season in Toronto is widely known as The Blue Jays first solid season? I’m sure that was just coincidence too. That was the only losing season that Toronto had under Cox. Your right Robot. He is horrible. He turned around two franchises. He took over in the middle of the 1990 season in atlanta when they finished with the worst record in the division. Just like when he took over in Toronto in 1982 when one year earlier they finished with the worst record in the division. IN BOTH CASES HE QUICKLY TURNED BOTH FRANCHISES AROUND.

I have my proof about how good Cox is. Where is your proof that he is horrible Robot, other than your own pathetic opinion?

By Ricardo

April 19, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this

Not sure why people want to continue to discuss the one thing that isn’t going to change in the next 2 years - Cox is going to be the manager of this team. You can like it or dislike it, but that won’t matter. End of story, time to move on.

DOB (or anyone else) -

Are you starting to get the feeling that the Braves are being less than forthcoming on Mike Gonzalez? Knowing nothing (I can admit that) it seems like there’s something going on we aren’t being told. Velocity is down, control seems to wander - doesn’t seem like the guy we thought we were getting. That, coupled with the mealy-mouthed explanation that he needs rest just doesn’t seem to add up.

By 22oz

April 19, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

I’m gonna go argue with a brick wall for a while, ya’ll keep argueing with Robert. We’ll meet back here in a few hours and report our progress.

By 22oz

April 19, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

atlantabraves.com says Gonzalez is having an MRI on his elbow today.

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

Well, it looks like my concerns about Gonzalez were not unfounded…

Lew, he is scheduled for that MRI that you said he would be if the Braves thought there were any problems with his arm!

It has just been painfully obvious that he hasn’t been the same pitcher. You don’t need to be a baseball genius to know that. Hopefully, it isn’t anything serious.

Regards,

Jason

By Matt

April 19, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

Well, here we go. According to Braves.com, Gonzo is going to have an MRI on his “sore” elbow today. I’m not not quite smelling a bullpen collapse yet, but this ain’t good. If he has to have surgery, that trade will have been a total bust, at least for this season. We’ll, at least we’re not paying him much yet.

By Barrett

April 19, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

I made a mistake in my last post. I typed robot rather than robert. I sincerely appologize. (I honestly thought people were making fun of robert by calling him robot due to his ongoing banter about BC and the similarities of the names…) Sorry.

By Ricardo

April 19, 2007 8:43 AM | Link to this

22oz - The 836 post was really funny.

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 8:44 AM | Link to this

Lew, here is a quote from braves.com:

“While he wasn’t specifically talking about his elbow, there’s a definite chance he was hiding some discomfort at the time.”

Lord knows I am wrong more than I am right, but this is the exact scenario that we discussed yesterday. He was hiding discomfort and that something was obviously wrong. You just don’t lose that much on your velocity.

Regards,

Jason

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 19, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this

Check out this quote from Gary Matthews, Jr., discussing the team’s recent struggles….

There’s no secret ingredient. You can’t just go out and sacrifice a chicken, throw on some snake oil, and all of a sudden you’ll start piling up the runs. It doesn’t work like that.

He’s right. In Matthews’ case, you spike your arm with roids, the muscles get stronger, the cranium gets bigger and all of the sudden you’re only 12 HR’s away from Hank’s 755, like Bonds.

I think Langerhans ought to think seriously about the chicken sacrifice. Doesn’t seem that anything else is working for him.

On Aybar… this is the one issue that I have been right about, since the day he got here. I didn’t like him then, and don’t like him now. I said it after the ‘06 season, I said it during Hot Stove, I said it during Spring Training, and I’m saying it now. Send Aybar to Zanzibar, or wherever - just get him the hell out of Atlanta.

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts:

In regard to your response yesterday…

Sorry dude… that’s not bravado, it’s just an observation. Of course we don’t know what will happen between now and October, and there’s no earthly way to predict what will happen in the post-season.

But, if we’re going to make “picks” right now… I’ll pick Atlanta to represent the NL in the World Series. Will it happen? Who knows, but right now on paper, and based on what we’ve seen so far… I think the trio of Smoltz, Hudson, and James is going to be hard to beat.

I believe that trio of starters is better than any other trio in the NL right now. I could be wrong… but I’m not. =)

I remember the buzz-saw that was the Johnson/Schilling combination in 2001, and I feel that, with the way Huddy looks, we might have something similar come October at the top of our rotation.

Again, who knows what will happen? I’m not sticking a flag in the ground and declaring “the Braves WILL go to the World Series!”. Not at all. Nor am I betting any money on it. But if we’re going to make picks right now… I really, truly believe the Braves look like the favorites. I believe that because I think the Braves have a great bullpen, a good offense, and the best rotation… at least on the top end, 1-3, in the NL.

The favorites don’t always win… in fact often they don’t. But I think they are the favorites at this moment in time.

If I’m wrong, please tell me which NL team is likely to out-duel Smoltz/Hudson/James.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Nice start for the Braves. I see they’re taking advantage of those early home games. They’ll be tested starting this weekend when they hit the road. So far those who predicted the Mets not being better than a .500 team and finishing 3rd (LEW) have to wonder about that prediction.

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Gonzo going in for an MRI doesn’t shock me a bit, especially given his severly reduced velocity. It explains his ineffectiveness. His pitch selection wasn’t the problem, nor was the location. He was trying to blow strikes past guys and the velocity wasn’t there, and was worsening with each outing.

But this is a prime reason why I wasn’t crazy about this trade in the offseason. You just don’t trade a healthy everyday guy for a bullpen guy, I don’t care if he was lights-out or not, when he’s coming off an elbow injury. I mean, this would be like Texas going afte Gagne by sending off one of their big bats. Gagne may come around, and Gonzalez may, too, but it’s a fairly sizable risk.

Pitchers go down all the time and never recover. It’s more psychological than physical. If you spend your life throwing (and throwing hard in Gonzalez’ case), it’s just hard to come back from a surgery (if one’s needed, and I suspect it is) and go all-out again when towing the mound.

As for replacements, I think Steve Colyer did well the other night, frankly. But with Villareal (who wasn’t all that splendid last night, but should be fine throughout the season) and Yates, Soriano and Wickman will work out fine for us. As for callups, Carl Hernandez and Will Startup have looked good in Richmond, so far,

By Lee

April 19, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

Brave’s hitting (except Langerhans) is showing signs of life. Hope Gonzalez’s MRI does not prove anything too serious.

Aybar is obviously a basket case or is attempting to hide something confidentially from the Braves. Otherwise - why is he constantly AWOL and avoiding team management.

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

Coach: “The Cubs Rich Hill 2-0 0.64 ERA VS the Braves Mark Redman 0-2 12.96 ERA……..Can I get a rain check , please!”

Amen.

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE:

I have never thought there was any chance of the Mets finishing 3rd. 2nd… but not 3rd. =)

Looking forward to the weekend series? Hudson, James, and Smoltz going for Atlanta. And it looks like BC is resting Soriano and Gonzo for the Shay series. Yeah baby! let’s get it on!

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

Okay… I’ve missed something. Help me out here. What’s all the talk of Gonzo getting an MRI? Where/when was that reported?

By Lew

April 19, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

ChopZone-The season’s barely started. I still wouldn’t count on your rotation remaining at these lofty heights. You’re still not in first and the Braves don’t seem to be fading. Who cares if you win 12-3 or 3-2? A W is still a W. Plenty of time for a Mets’ flame out.

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts:

The Mike Gonzalez trade wasn’t just about this year. It was about securing the future of our bullpen, and freeing up the money that is now being paid to Wickaman (under the assumption that Gonzo could take over closer duties next year) to accomplish other things, like re-signing Smoltz and possibly even making a reasonable offer to AJ.

In light of all those things, it was a smart trade to pick up Gonzo and… don’t forget… Lillibridge, who could be our leadoff man of the future.

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

KC,

Check out this link.

Regards,

Jason

By Robert

April 19, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

“He took over in the middle of the 1990 season in atlanta when they finished with the worst record in the division”

www.baseball-reference.com - Russ Nixon’s version of the 1990 Braves wouldve been a game ahead of Cox’s version

Joe Torre’s 1982 Braves 11 games ahead of the same team managed by Cox in 1981

Cox blew a 3-1 lead in the ALCS in 1985. He hung Dave Stieb out to dry in Game 7

I also watched both the 96 and 99 World Series, which he personally lost, and most of the other Braves playoff shenanigans, which he did nothing to win

Cox is also 1-4 as AS game manager. Give him and another guy equally loaded lineups - and he is gonna lose about 4 out of 5.

The problem here is that nothing I say, no fact that I cite, is ever gonna be accepted by the apologist crowd.

SHOW ME a game Cox won with a managerial move. Show me where he took the same or a similar team farther than the next guy. (There are three cases where you can reasonably compare what he and another guy did with the same or very similar teams - Cox beats Bobby Mattick with the 82 vs 81 Blue Jays, and loses to Torre and Nixon - the 77 and 78 Braves arent comparable as the pitching staffs were quite different, notably that Cox had Gene Garber at his disposal while Bristol didnt have such a luxury with the 77 squad. Cox also had a kid named Bob Horner and a full season from Dale Murphy vs the cameo he had for Bristol in 77 - Cox gets Garber, Horner, and Murphy and picks up 7 or 8 games on Bristol - mighty impressive)

Cox has had 6 losing seasons. What does that mean? Did you expectlosing seasons with Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz in the rotation?

Numbers without context are meaningless. Numbers IN CONTEXT indict Cox. Finishing behind Torre and RUSS FRICKIN NIXON. Losing records in the league championship series and the world series (despite having several MONSTER teams). 2-8 heads up against Torre in the WS.

The only other proof I could give you would be to arrange for someone to do a craniectomy on the man so you could see for yourself that there is zilch gray matter between his ears, but I dont think the Donkmeister is gonna consent to that anyday soon.

By Tony

April 19, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

Once again, it pains me to say this…but if the “automatic out” in left field was a person of color he wouldn’t be in the major leagues. I think we can agree with that…can we? You mean to tell me Brandon Jones couldn’t do any better?

Robert,

I totally agree. Comparing Bobby Cox to Coach K or Dean Smith or Don Shula is totally ridiculous an insult to some of the greatest coaches to ever coach a sport. Bobby Cox is a good baseball manager. I have never considered him to be great. Maybe very good, but not great.

What happen to Blaine Boyer? He showed so much promise…

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

DOB: Why in the hell do you guys have that asinine “Braves Vent” on the Braves page??? If there’s ever one damn intelligent thing said there, I swear I’ll shave my head and get an “I love the Mets” tatoo on my A#$.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

Jason-I never said there was nothing wrong with Gonzo, just that I would be surprised that the Braves would hide it and keep trucking him out there. I just hope it’s nothing requiring TJohn surgery. Wasn’t it his shoulder he had problems with in the past? I wonder what our options are if the worst comes to pass.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

hopZone-I will revise my predictions somewhat. We’ll go with second for the Mets. How would have thought the Phillies would be this bad? Should we start the lottery on Charlie Manuel’s firing?

By Don

April 19, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Wow, the obsessed Psycho Boy stayed up all night blogging about his obsession.

And after somebody explained the meaning of the word “any” to the Jackass he claims he understood my point all along. Sure he did.

Potentially very bad news on Gonzales. The loss of velocity has been alarming. I remember him blowing away the Braves one night last summer and he was throwing 95-97, the nastiest looking stuff of any pitcher I saw all year.

By Epinephrine

April 19, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

Tony, he is on the dl with an oblique strain. Keep up.

DOB, with Paronto going down, and Gonzales potentially joining him, what are the chances that the remainder of Cormeir, Redman, and Davies will end up in the pen as a middle relief inning eater?

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Thanks Jason:

Man, I hope we’re not looking at another Tommy John surgery.

I truly hope there IS something minor wrong with his elbow… the kind of things that could be completely healed with 2-4 weeks of rest. I would feel much better to know that there is an explanation for the way he’s pitched. Unless of course, that explanation involves season-ending surgery.

By Efrim

April 19, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

Bummer on Gonzo. Laroche for Lillibridge and a left handed setup man who is about to have Tommy John surgery.

By Gene Garbage

April 19, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

Dobber-

Got some new/old tunes for ya…

Magnolia Electric Co.- Trials and Errors

The Bad Livers- Delusions of Banjer

Superwolf- Superwolf ( Will Oldham & Matt Sweeney )

as for the braves, gotta give props to Johnson’s D @ 2nd. looks good…

why is Oscar so inconsistent?

diaz @ 1st?

i like mcann batting 5th and frenchy 6th

WORST TRADE EVER—> Betemit for AWOL Aybar and Baez

~werd

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Lew, I think it was his elbow. As I said earlier, I am wrong more than right! So, when I mentioned his shoulder yesterday, I was in error. It was Soriano who had shoulder issues last year and Gonzo had elbow problems. I hear ya…let’s hope he isn’t lost for the season!

Regards,

Jason

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Lew: I’m pretty sure it was elbow tenderness (and nothing to do with the shoulder) that bothered him a bit last year.

By The Grinch

April 19, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Robert, may I respectfully say you’re full of $%#%? I spent all of one day and half of another trying to accept your wager and you refused to e-mail me. Just in case you somehow didn’t see my repreated polite attempts (I said at the time and still do feel this way; you may be right but I’m a gambler by nature) I’ll try again. Voton10669@yahoo.com. 1 six pack of a nature we’ll determine privately, that the Braves won’t win the WS under Cox. Correct? If you don’t trust me not to give your name out you can use a pseudonym if you prefer.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Plenty of time for the Braves to flame out too LEW. Speaking of flame out I see Gonzalez is having some elbow problems. As for not being in first…..As long as we are on the last day of the season.

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Efrim: Shut up!!!! I’m trying to be optimistic here. I’m trying really, really hard. Gonzo’s gonna be just fine. really, he is. Nothing to worry about.

I’m going to keep telling myself that. =)

By KC

April 19, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Even if we have to go on without Gonzo, I still think this pen will be in great shape.

What we’ve seen the past couple days with Moylan and Colyer not looking impressive, really isn’t a big deal. There are several guys that should be ready soon: Boyer, Stockman, Sturtze, and hopefully McBride will work out his issues quickly.

It’ll to see how Boyer and Stockman look as they get more innings under their belt. I think both of them could be impact guys in the bullpen if needed.

The biggest thing if we lose Gonzo, would be the need to go out and get another tough lefty.

By Ricardo

April 19, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

KC -

I think the expression is “whistling past the graveyard”.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Braves , TBS , Redman…..again. Can you say Deja Vu ?

By KC

April 19, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

BTW, has anyone brought up how nasty Tyler Yates has been looking lately? He was bringing 97-98 mph heat the other night.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

ChopZone-Yeah, It looks like he has problems. Too bad for the Mets that he hasn’t been productive yet and we’re still in first. Is that eating at your guts, yet, Little Chop Zone? Keep waiting on Pedro, you’ll need him.

By KC

April 19, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

Ricardo:

What graveyard? I don’t see graveya… oh damnit… there it is.

By Robert

April 19, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

Youre on, Grinch

By Grahamdawg

April 19, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

Whats up with Gonzalez? What does it mean when a pitcher can’t throw at his highest speed? Besides that and the struggles of Redman, the Braves are looking great. Matt Diaz should be in the lineup everyday. That boy can flat out hit.

By Lee

April 19, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

KC - Yates has certainly looked impressive in serveral of his latest appearances. Maybe that McBide set-back opened up a few eyes. Funny -these days you do not here many people calling for Leo over Roger McDowell.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

The Braves will anxiously await results of the MRI _ and no, they never mentioned one word about him being examined or even being the slightest bit sore.

Obviously this is potentially a huge blow, not just because Gonzalez is a prime setup guy and potential closer replacement, but because he’s their only proven lefty in the bullpen right now, with McBride down on the farm (and McBride was all over the place in his first minor league outing, just like he was in his last four with the Braves).

Without Gonzalez you’re left with Colyer, a journeyman, as your only lefty. And no, Redman isn’t an attractive option _ not with that junk he throws up there. Not in a relief role.

This could be a really big blow. Braves don’t even have the righty changeup guys they had in the bullpen in the past, guys who were actually tougher on lefties than righties when their changeups were working well.

They really need Gonzalez, and the Gonzalez they traded for, not the one they’ve had in several outings this year.

He’s said all along that his elbow issues were in the past, not a factor, blah blah blah. Whether he was lying trying to convince himself, or whether it worsened in the past few days, isn’t clear.

Why the Braves don’t divulge such health issues _ or a scheduled MRI _ as most teams would, is beyond me. But they do things the way they do them, and for whatever reason believe it’s the right way.

But after the game Bobby Cox was still saying Gonzalez “probably” would get tonight off, too, and said nothing about soreness. No explanation for why he needed a night off after pitching just once in one week.

By genus Phallus

April 19, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

It’s N8 all damn evening/ it’s KC all damn morning/ it’s Lew scattered all around/ and it’s this idiot Robert 24/7. This blog consists of 4 damn people/ and it is boring the hell out of everyone.

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the info, and we will also wait anxiously for an update as soon as you find out! It was obvious something was wrong with the dude…please, Lord, let it be nothing serious!

Regards,

Jason

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Lewie, It’s only April 19th. Not a time of the season to be “Eating your Guts” (Unless you’re a Phillie fan). I like the way the Mets have played. Despite a lack of homeruns we’re 1/2 a game out and we’ve played the bulk of our games on the road(unlike the braves).

By Coach

April 19, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Kc is right . McBride and a couple of young left handers by the names of Will Startup and Dan Smith are available if needed. Right handers consist of Boyer , Stockman , Acosta , Devine , Lerew and Ascanio. Startup and Smith are the only two of that group that are not on the 40 man roster. The bullpen is deep and if Gonzalez is lost for any significant amount of time at least JS got Liilibridge in the trade.

By Rosalynn

April 19, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Oh, that Chippa is such a cut-up. Look at what that boah did to DOB. He is so clevah.

“Third baseman Chipper Jones said Sunday he wasn’t aware Aybar was still on the team, but Jones clarified Wednesday and said he was only kidding when he made the comment. Aybar was supposed to be a utility infielder and Jones’ backup.”

That boah must be fun at a partah! Lahting fahts and makin’ the fool of himself. No wondah DOB likes to call him, Hawss. Glad he clarad that remahk.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

DOB makes a good point about you guys needing Gonzalez’s Lefty arm. Chicago is a right heavy team. Not the Mets…See you this weekend folks!

By choppinmama

April 19, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

Stranger: the Rally ‘Tard is all refreshed and at the ready for tonight.

Hay, if Buehrle can pull it off, why not Redman?

By KC

April 19, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

genus Phallus: Isn’t it interesting that so often when someone wants to personally criticize or attack bloggers here, they post under some name we’ve never seen before? Can’t you at least have the balls to identify yourself? Hell, it’s not like anyone’s gonna get your home address, you weasely little p#$@*.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Phallus-If you’re so bored, why are you here? Can’t find anything better to do with your meaningless life?

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Sorry KC, but if Gonzalez is a dud, even for just this year, it’s a bad trade. We are supposed to be playing for this year, thankyouverymuch. This may be our last year with Andruw Jones batting cleanup and playing CF, and may be our last year with John Smoltz atop our rotation, and may be our only full season with Bob Wickman at the back of the ‘pen, too.

Mike Gonzalez was supposed to be a key element in the Braves’ 2007 title chances, and it’s a pure flame-out right now. Pitchers don’t lose velocity for no reason when they’re as young as Gonzo. Not having a quality lefty outta the ‘pen is a serious problem to overcome.

And about Colyer: I think the guy did fairly alright the other night. He gave up a coupla hits, but also rung up a coupla batters at key moments, too. He held his own. Last night, he faced a batter. Its early to judge him negatively, I think.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Yeah-That’s it Chop Zone. The Mets are in second because they’ve played more games on the road. Yeah-right. The Braves are 4-1 on the road.

By Steve in DC

April 19, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Hey everyone, whaddya think the over/under is on how many times Robert has voted “no” in the poll?

By Braveheart

April 19, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

When I saw that woman blew a .47 on her breath test, I became a little concerned. Then I saw that the Grinch had not posted all night, and I said I know the cause of that girl’s problem.

Just like Johnny Cash’s momma told him not to bring his guns to town, leave your guns at home, that girl’s momma should have told her what most sensible mothers tell their little girls: Don’t drink with the Grinch, girl, you might not go home, girl.

Just playing Grinch. I am glad to see you are still alive after your beloved Thrashers were swept last night.

Lew, I will email you this weekend.

By KC

April 19, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts:

I didn’t say it wouldn’t be a “bad” trade if Gonzo is lost for the year. I simply said it was still a “smart” trade.

Let’s say he’s gone for the year… if JS had some way of knowing that in advance, would he still have made the trade? Of course not.

So, if Gonzo’s lost for the year, then I agree, the trade did not turn out well (at least for the moment). However, based on the fact at hand when the deal was made… it was the smart move at the time.

By meansonny

April 19, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

KC Good 9:31 post in reference to the Gonzo trade.

A few quick points.

Last year, the offense obviously wasn’t the problem. The bullpen was. An everyday player is great, but the bullpen will get work over 9 out of 10 games, too.

The Braves had lacked a dominant bullpen through much of their division title runs. This is also a solution in attempt to change our luck in October. Smoltz, Hudson, James are great. But what’s it worth to blow it in the 7th,8th,9th in 2 out of 3 of those starts?

And in total agreement with KC, this was a trade for the future of our Pen. Who knows if it will work out? It could still blow up in our face. But John Schuerholz made the right move knowing all the facts at the time (anybody watch poker and see the best hand lose on the flop?)

By fastasballs

April 19, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Well at least Redman won’t pitch in the Mets series. The Mets will have to earn their one victory this time.

By KC

April 19, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts: “We are supposed to be playing for this year”

I never said anything to the contrary. I just said this trade wasn’t just about this year. If Gonzalez is healthy (or gets healthy) and pitches as he did in Pittsburgh (though that’s certainly now in doubt)… the trade works out well for this season. But the benefits extend beyond this year.

All I’m saying is that the Braves know Wickman’s getting older, that he’s a free agent after this year, and that they’ll need to free up cash to offer Smoltzy and Andruw. That made Gonzo attractive beyond 2007, and of courses a top-flight prospect (Lillibridge) enhanced the long-term potential of this deal.

By Lee

April 19, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

J.S. will take action if necessary about the lefty situation. I guarantee you he and Cox see the potential in this team unlike last years team with the disaster involving the bullpen. If Gonzo cannot pitch and the younger pitchers don’t sep in and contribute a trade will be made. Management will not let this year be a repeat of last year and they have enough young talent to make an appealing trade if necessary. .

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

Like I said Little Lewie. I’m Ok with where the Mets are right now. They lead the league in batting and ERA. They’re 1/2 game out and the Braves may be losing their only proven lefty out of the pen for a while. It all sounds good to me.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

Do you people realize that Robert feeds off attention? Ignore him, and he will go away. He has made his illogical point, so I will summarize it and then we can hit the ignore button:

Robert’s Theory of Baseball

1. Bobby Cox is a bad manager
2. Every other manager in every sport (except Hargrove and Valentine) is better than Bobby Cox.
3. The Atlanta fan base, the brass, the ownership, Major League Baseball, and writers all over the country (including Hall of Fame voters), and Braves players (former and current) who notice the tremendous talent that Cox has as a manager are stupid, retarded morons.
4. Hee haw
5. donkey jokes
6. attack anybody who likes Cox by suggesting they were in the Special Olympics (I bet you have never watched those kids try their hardest have you-do you just not have a heart at all?)

Okay, now we can take a deep breath and move on. From now on, I will not even read anything that attention-craving man writes. Anyone wanna join me?

Now, baseball (props to the scribe. Gonzo is a concern, but it’s too early to freak out. Aybar is dead to me. I hope he is kicked off the team and Atlanta can use the spot for Willie Harris or Escobar. Either of them will be an upgrade over AWOL Willy.

Folks, we have flaws. St. Louis did last year, and won the World Series. We are 10 and 4. Relax, after we win today, we go to Shea. Take two of three from the Muts and we’re fine.

By KC

April 19, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

If Redman sucks again tonight, I say we move him to long-relief/mop up duty in the bullpen for the time being while we get a look at Cormier in the rotation.

By meansonny

April 19, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

DOB

I remember it being reported that Mike Gonzalez wanted to be used a lot earlier in the season. The assumption was that he got a late start in Spring going full speed. I know that you’ve already mentioned that the Braves haven’t been fully open with the media about his soreness. But was there any hint or mention from Gonzalez that he needed to slow down?

A sore arm at this point in the season is obviously a cause to retract a request to be “used often”.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Losing Gonzo for an appreciable amount of time is not good, but hardly disastrous. We have other relievers we can plug in and Gonzo is still controlled by the Braves for two years beyond this season. Add to this that we have Lillibridge waiting in the wings and it is hardly a lost deal. Besides, maybe he just has tendinitis and not anything requiring ligament replacement. We’ll see. I’m not pleased it has come down to this, but hardly willing to give up, either. Maybe now you see why we didn’t trade any relievers as some suggested. You can never have enough pitching. Another thing to consider, if Gonzalez is out for the year and is unable to go as closer next spring, we could still tlk Wicky into coming back for another season. He hasn’t sworn he would retire after this year. We have just assumed it.

By KC

April 19, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE: I hate to be the bearer of good news (for the Mets)… truly I do, but if they can get a win tonight, there’s a good chance they’ll be all alone in 1st for the moment. I don’t exactly feel good the morning before a Mark Redman start.

By Thrillhouse44

April 19, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Gonzalez hasn’t given us much this year so far anyways. We may miss him a little bit while/if he’s out, but hopefully he can come back healthy, a la 2006, and really contribute.

By The Grinch

April 19, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Sorry, that’s voton1066@yahoo.com, no 9. Oops.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Chop Zone-Keep the smile on your face. The Mets will NOT lead the league in ERA for a season and probably not for much longer. You talk about how you are rolling even without hitting HR’s. So? We are winning with a left fielder who isn’t even hitting .100, a 2B who just heated up and a 1B who looks like he is finally coming around. Gonzo hasn’t contributed much of anything to this point and we are still in first. We also have at least another half dozen relievers waiting in the wings. So again I ask, Why are you here? Are you still trying to convince yourself that the Braves aren’t for real? Thought the Mets would have run away with it by now? Surprised? You shouldn’t be. We’ve been telling you all along last year was an aberration. No more 12 game margins for the Mets. Now you will actually have to earn your season.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 19, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

kc and lew, it is the same blogger posting with several different names. blogging with himself. reminds this blogger of stinky. now, baseball … word is out that bobby has called for mike remlinger as situational lefty (righty, but nevermind).

By Lee

April 19, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

If Redman sucks again I hope the Braves release him. That guy scares me pitching period. No lead will be safe.

By Efrim

April 19, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

When can we expect the results of the MRI back???

By The Grinch

April 19, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

.47? Now that’s my kind of girl. :-) Braveheart, don’t even get me started on the Thrashers; Wadell traded our best defensive prospect, a solid forward, next years 1st and third round picks and a third rounder the following year so that we could basically win a half-dozen more games this year with a couple of rent-a-players. Ouch. This news about Gonzalez is not good. At least LaRoche isn’t out performing Thorman to make it look worse. Scalp ‘em, good post earlier this morning.

By Braveheart

April 19, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

The reason I did not like the Betemit trade when it occurred was because I loved the production he provided. But the biggest reason I was a Betemit fan was because of the perseverance and fortitude he showed. From Mr. Ballyhoo to a bust to stuck on the 25 man because he was out of options to none of us expecting anything out of him to becoming a productive hitting surprise and solid defender at multiple positions to lessening the blow when Chipper got hurt. That is what sucks me in during 162 game marathons - stories like his. Aybar is the total opposite of Betemit. A quitter. He doesn’t get second base so he cries, gets visa problems, is always hurt, goes AWOL. I understand that Betemit has returned to bust status in L.A. but I wish Betemit had transferred some of the character and perseverance he demonstrated here over to Aybar when Willy came here. I guess that did not happen. Still hoping that Aybar works through whatever the hell the issues are and makes me a fan of his for the same reasons Betemit made me a fan. The kid has got the talent. He just needs to take off the skirt, strap on the leotard, and get out there and play his butt off. If he does that, I will be singing Amazing Grace for Willy Aybar just like I did for Betemit when he was here.

By KC

April 19, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Thrillhouse44:

Yeah, if there’s something seriously wrong with that elbow, at least they’ll know it only 2 weeks into the season. Even if Gonzo had to have TJ surgery, he should still be healthy early next year.

It seems to be easier for relievers to come back from that than starters. Smoltz was moved to the bullpen in his first year back because he could handle it better than starting at the time.

If he’s gone this year, again, we’ll be fine. The biggest challenge for JS will be to go out and find a tough lefty to replace him. But as far the finding another guy to replace his late-innings role… we’ve got a lot of options.

Again, Tyler Yates has looked filthy, so he’s a definite possibility to take over the late-inning role intended for Gonzo.

Yates was called up on May 30th last year, and pitched almost exactly 4 months with Atlanta. One of those months (August) was lousy. But over the other 3 months, he posted a 2.17 ERA. So he’s definitely showed us last year that he’s capable of being dominant, and has been flashing that form here of late.

Also, as I mentioned before… Boyer was fantastic for Atlanta a couple years ago before getting hurt. While Phil Stockman made AAA hitters look ridiculous last year, and looked good in a brief stint in Atlanta. And there are other names down there as well, those are just the two I’m most anxious to see back in a Braves uni as soon as the opportunity presents itself.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Esteemed Journalist-You are probably right. It’s funny. I got an email from Stinky telling me what a waste I am as an artist. I was nice to him and he’s never responded. Masochistic tendencies? Could be.

By Rosalynn

April 19, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Soah ahm. Soah elbah. Soah head. Gonza is suffahing from the soah ahm, soah elbah and Ahbah is suffahing from the soah head. Now, which one is wuhse? Foah mah monah, Ah’d rathah have a soah ahm’d pitcha who wants to pitch than a soah headed infieldah who does not want to plah.

Ah thought if anahbodah on this staff had the soahs it would be Soahriana. That boah suah throws hahd! It is so vera nice to have pitchas come into the game who thow so hahd and fast aftah what we weah fohced to watch last yeah with that weak ahmed relief coah.

Now, I read that Chippa is having some fun with DOB - just kidding around with DOB duhing an intahview. DOB should retuhn the favah and quote Chippa just like the boah talks. “Uh, I, uh, didn’t know, uh, he, uh, was uh, still on the uh, team.” Faih is faih.

By Carolina Lady

April 19, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

We’ve had polls/poles, but now it’s time for a pact:

I hereby swear, on penalty of losing posting privileges for 24 hours, that I will never again READ/RESPOND TO anything that Robert posts.

Agreed?? :-)

By NationalLeagueEast

April 19, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

The only one here talking realistically about Gonzalez is DOB—you guys can spin it all you want, but if Gonzo goes down, it is a HUGE disaster for the Braves.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Efrim, he’s having the MRI now. In a case like this, it’s possible the Braves could get the results by the end of the day.

Just talked to Schuerholz and the Braves really don’t think it’s serious, and nothing to do with last year’s problem (this “discomfort” or “irritation,” in their words, is apparently in the back the elbow.

Braves brass tells me they send any pitcher _ especially a prominnent one, I would add _ who has elbow or shoulder discomfort in for an MRI to rule out anything major (they didn’t send Cormier for one, but he said all along his was in the armpit area, not up in the rotator cuff/labrum part of the shoulder, and later it was diagnosed as triceps strain)

Anyway, here’s the STORY I JUST FILED, since I’m not sure how quickly it’s going to get posted on website:

By DAVID O’BRIEN dobrien@ajc.com

Braves left-hander Mike Gonzalez will have an MRI exam on his elbow late this morning, which general manager John Schuerholz said was only a precautionary measure and had not caused alarm in the team’s inner circle.

Schuerholz said the Braves believe the relief pitcher’s “discomfort” is unrelated to tendinitis that sidelined him for the final five weeks of the 2006 season with Pittsburgh, because this is in a different area of the elbow and hasn’t prevented Gonzalez from pitching.

“I think he’s got a little discomfort,” Schuerholz said. “It happens, especially in this cold weather. We all know how cold it’s been and how miserable it’s been. We think he’s going to be fine.”

Another Braves official said the team routinely sends any pitcher having elbow or shoulder discomfort in for an MRI to rule out anything serious.

Manager Bobby Cox said after Wednesday’s 8-6 win vs. the Chicago Cubs that he rested his setup men, Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano, on Wednesday and that Gonzalez would probably be rested again Thursday vs. the Cubs.

Cox didn’t mention any discomfort and, like Gonzalez himself, the manager has repeatedly said the elbow hasn’t been an issue since spring training began.

Soriano pitched 1-2/3 innings in Tuesday’s game at Washington and recorded one out Monday vs. the Nationals, so the move to decision to rest him wasn’t surprising. But Cox didn’t explain why Gonzalez, who has pitched only once in seven days, needed rest.

He has a 2.84 ERA in seven appearances, but Gonzalez has allowed eight hits and six walks with four strikeouts in 6-1/3 innings.

It’s not the first time Gonzalez has had command problems at the start of a season, and Braves officials think his irregular pitching delivery and cold weather could be contributing factors to his early struggles and his elbow discomfort.

He gave up a hit and two walks while recording two outs on another cold, windy night Monday at Washington. Neither Gonzalez nor the Braves mentioned any pain or discomfort in the pitcher’s elbow since he began pitching in games during spring training, but he acknowledged to team officials that there was some tenderness in the elbow Wednesday.

The Braves traded first baseman Adam LaRoche to Pittsburgh in January for Gonzalez, who converted of 24 of 24 saves while closing last season and is considered a future closer candidate for the Braves. The Braves also got top middle-infield prospect Brent Lillibridge in that trade.

Gonzalez has struggled with his command this season, and his velocity has generally been several ticks below the 94-97 mph range that he featured with Pittsburgh. Gonzalez had insisted on several occasions since February that the elbow wasn’t a problem _ during spring training or since the season began.

Schuerholz said the Braves did “due diligence” in exhaustively examining Gonzalez’s medical records before acquiring him. He had a magnetic resonance arthrography exam in September, considered a more precise text than a regular MRI for revealing tissue damage. Dye is injected to better reveal any tears or other damage.

Doctors from both the Braves and Pirates examined those tests and found nothing that raised concern or caution.

By KC

April 19, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Hey, if you’re planning to attend a Braves game, and want the best possible seats… may I suggest the Braves Marketplace site.

This is where you buy tickets from season ticket holders, as opposed to buying directly from the Braves (though the sales are handled through Braves.com).

I usually sit in the Upper Box as it’s easier on my budget, but every now and then it’s nice to sit in a primo seat.

Grinch and I are going to take in one of the games against the Phillies here in a couple weeks, and we’ll be sitting almost close enough to the Braves dugout to reach out and touch the Braves’ Girls during the 7th innings stretch. Though I’ve expressly told Grinch he cannot do so (don’t want to get tossed out of the park).

By GeorgetownKid

April 19, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

To whomever may know,

Several people have mentioned that we control Gonzalez for 2 more years. But in the final 2 years of arbitration, players get enormous pay increases. In the last year of arbitration, a player’s salary typically increases by almost 100%.

What are we paying Gonzalez this year, and what will we be paying him the next two seasons?

What about Soriano?

By Metropolitan Man

April 19, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Sorry to hear aobut one of your nasty boyz brave bloggers. No one needs to panic yet because their isnt a single team cooking on all cylinders yet. The braves know who isnt hitting or pitching yet so they remain optimistic. Delgado, and Valetin atr the only METS not hitting and its all without the longball which will come with warmer weather. All I know is its still early and you cant tell who is the best, just who is bad so far. The braves are holding onto 1st with a Kung-Fu grip because they no longer have the ownership of being in first and staying in. Just enjoy this season because this maybe the best race in a long time in the NL east.

Hey Ginch Scibes, you watched them Power RANGERS lately????

By KC

April 19, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

“It’s not the first time Gonzalez has had command problems at the start of a season”

That may well be true, but I’m going to assume that it the other day was the first time he’s thrown an 85 mph fastball at the major league level.

By Rosalynn

April 19, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

“…Braves officials think his irregular pitching delivery and cold weather could be contributing factors to his early struggles and his elbow discomfort.”

If the boah is irregulah, maybah some prunes will help. That’s what we do foah Jimma. Makes him grumpa, too.

By Rodger

April 19, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

*By KC

April 19, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

DOB: Why in the hell do you guys have that asinine “Braves Vent” on the Braves page??? If there’s ever one damn intelligent thing said there, I swear I’ll shave my head and get an “I love the Mets” tatoo on my A#$. *

KC, why do you need to shave your head to get a tatoo on your A#$?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 19, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I know this will probably go unanswered as usual, but just out of curiosity, how and where is Kris Medlin pitching? You told us to remember that name, so I did. Three or four years away, I’m sure, but I was wondering how he’s performing and if he’ll be considered a high-level prospect soon.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Only time will tell LEWIE…..You did say the Mets would be only a .500 team so I gave to give you grief on that all year long. You say the Mets will not lead the league in ERA all season but the braves won’t keep hitting homeruns at the current pace either.

By journalist jimmy smith

April 19, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

oh, the humanity! blog classic!

“KC, why do you need to shave your head to get a tatoo on your A#$?”

rodger is congratulated. kc better rest for a comeback.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

Hillbilly-I just went on the Braves’ site and checked the rosters of all our minor league affiliates. Nothing there. I then did a name search and still came up with nothing. I, too, remember DOB mentioning his performance, but apparently he has dropped off the face of the earth.

By Lew

April 19, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

ChopZone-I bet you that there is much more chance of the Braves hitting HR’s at this pace than there is of the Mets’ leading the league in ERA. That’s a no brainer. Which works out well for you.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

1. Kris Medlin – Right-Hand Pitcher – Age: 21…The Braves drafted 12 pitchers out of 15 selections in the first eleven rounds and Medlin was picked up in the tenth from Santa Ana College. In 22 innings with Danville, the young righty allowed all of 14 hits, one earned run, and a pair of walks. Oh, and he struck out 36.

   Medlin will likely join Rome as their primary closer and the Braves have freely shown an open attitude to pushing relievers through the system fast so Medlin could hit the fast track if he has a good half-season with the Rome Braves. But right now, he can be pretty satisfied in his 0.41 ERA.

   ETA: Late 2009

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Georgetown, Gonzalez is making $2.35 mill this year in first year of arbitration eligibility. He won’t get an enormous raise next year unless he’s closing, because setup guys just don’t get raises the way closers with 24-for-24 saves (his numbers last year) get.

I’d guess _ and just a guess _ he’ll go to $3.5 mill or so next year, give or take a half-mill. Then if he closes next year and has a good season, you’d see him go up quite a bit _ to maybe $5-6 mill or more in his final season of arbitration (2009) before free agency.

Soriano is making $1.2 mill this year in his second year of arb eligibility (that’s what missing the 2005 season and being a setup guy, not a closer, does to salary), and he’d probably double his salary next year if he doesn’t close this season (he’d more than double it if he closed even half a season).

So figure he’ll make $2.5 mill, give or take a half-mill or so, next season before becoming a free agent. He’s already got nearly 4-1/2 years of service, whereas Gonzalez has just over 3 yrs

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Lew, Hillbilly: Medlen is pitching at Danville (A class), and doing quite well. A 0.41 era, with 36 K’s, 2 BB in 22 innings. (Lew, you got to look at the “stats” pages, as they don’t seem to have the “rosters” up to date on the MILB sites).

The Lefty that’s a little closer, I would think, is Dan Smith at Mississippi. He’s been dominant for a couple of years. They appear to have him starting this year, but he’s been a reliever most of his career.

By Metropolitan Man

April 19, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Man, Buehrle threw a no hitter???? Man I’m behind in my MLB news. Will you guys still clap for an opposing pitcher if he throws a no-no against the braves. I couldnt beleive the stadning O you gave R. Johnson a few years back.

By flbravesgirl

April 19, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

I hate to read that about Gonzo but I’m not surprised. It certainly appeared that something was wrong. Hopefully it’s a minor problem & he’ll be back in action soon.

And speaking of problems, as far as I’m concerned Aybar needn’t ever show up at Turner Field again. He’s been nothing but one issue after another. I would imagine that neither management nor his teammates are too impressed with his disappearing act.

By Metropolitan Man

April 19, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Howard went 0-for-5 Wednesday to drop his average to .213 for the season.

The Phillies listed him as day-to-day, saying he sprained the ligament that connects the tibia to the fibia just below the knee.

General manager Pat Gillick said X-rays done Wednesday showed nothing was torn and that Howard wouldn’t need to have an MRI exam. Gillick also said he didn’t think Howard would have to go on the disabled list.

Greg Dobbs started at first base Thursday, with Pat Burrell moving up in the batting order from fifth to Howard’s cleanup spot.

Paul Loduca is a lil banged up too so lets see which team survives injuries this year.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

LEWIE is so clever with his words. That No brainer one was good. But I would advise you against making any more predictions. Because quite frankly, you suck at it…GO METS!!

By dannycardwell

April 19, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

just read the posts here from yesterday and i cant help but think that people here wanting to get rid of thorman and langerhans are the same ones that wanted to get rid of laroache and chipper jones for a couple years straight. i was at the game last night and was very impressed with thormans glove work. he will only get better as time goes by. the only real concern is still middle relief. this team is primed to do very well. i agree diaz needs to start a lot more but langerhans glove will be needed a lot before this season is over. give wilson another month before passing judgement. if i were looking for a trade later looking at him now he would be my choice. but a lot of guys start cold in april (adam laroach) and get hot later. it alwasys comes down to pitching and defense, always. kelly johnson is starting to blossom and thorman will too. i sat in left field last night but im moving back to right. there were more cub fans than us and i have to say that cub fans are a lot better to sit with than most. very friendly and know how to have a good time. but right field just feels like home.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

I found this Which is the most recent listing of MEDLIN, Kristopher Allen (Kris). And here he is listed on the Danville Braves roster.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Hillbilly , Kris Medlen is currently on the Danville Braves roster. Their season doesn’t start until June 19th. Lew , you have to go directly to the Danville Braves website for any current information.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 19, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

i second the emotion re: the braves vent. why have negative quotes knocking on kelly johnson’s leadoff abilities or chipper’s team-leading abilities featured on the braves section of the paper?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 19, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the Medlin info guys. TennPaul, I found that same piece that you posted, but for some reason I thought it was 2006 numbers. Thanks again.

By Efrim

April 19, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

BY THE WAY….

We actually need innings tonight from Mark Redman. Soriano can pitch the 8th, but going farther than that is something that we don’t want him to do. 6 innings might be asking too much, but it might be nessacary if we expect to have a somewhat rested bullpen against the Mets this weekend.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

MBATL: Those were his 2006 numbers. I think the 2007 season starts June 19th.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

The Braves/MLB site is outdated on all information for Danville because their season doesn’t start until June 19th.

By Jason

April 19, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Runs scored and runs allowed would indicate the Braves are a bit flukey. The Mets will run them down and grind their bones for another season. At least, thats what the Pythagorean Theorem would tell us.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=342

By StingerSplash

April 19, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Redman throws more junk up there than Fred G. Sanford did in his yard. I was thinking I really didn’t feel like competing today. Can I go take my leotard off now? It’s starting to bind up on me.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Ok, so that didn’t work. Try this. And if that ain’t no good, the just copy this:
http://pressbox.mlb.com/pressbox/downloads/y2007/atl/minorleaguebios.pdf

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

10Paul, Coach - thanks. I thought 22 IP sounded kinda’ high for mid-April!

By Rodger

April 19, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Chopliver, Chipper named his kid after your cesspool, er staudium, for one reason-

HE’S YOUR DADDY!

See ya Friday!

(Thank God it’s not a Redman Friday)

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

Jason, I don’t think there’s any doubt that the Braves are “fortunate” to be 10-4, given our good-but-not-great pitching and very mediocre hitting. If the Mets maintain a 2.5 ERA and keep scoring 6 runs per game, they’ll probably win 110 games (really!) and run away with the division.

On the other hand, we’re 10-4 with half our lineup not hitting, and really no one having a super-hot start, while the Mets are (in my opinion) playing as well as they can possibly play.

So, chances are good that the stats will equalize considerably, and may the best team win.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

At least, thats what the Pythagorean Theorem would tell us

I don’t think this theorem takes into account Mark Redman. In his two starts alone over 1/3 of the Runs Allowed have been allowed.
For example, if we are to average the total runs allowed in games not pitched by Redman we find we are giving up about 3.2 runs a game. If we go back to the Pythagorean Theorem with this in mind, we find it says we should be 10-4.
What does this tell us? Basically we are playing at the right level, but when Redman toes the slab, we lose bad. Real bad. His soft-tossing junk gets spanked all over the park.

By ssiscribe

April 19, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Sigh … damn Thrashers.

Sigh … damn Gonzo.

Sigh … damn special section.

Sigh … is it the weekend yet?

Selah.

—30—

By flange1

April 19, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Metro Man, yes we gave Randy Johnson a standing O. I was at the game and how often do you get to see a perfect game? He was electric!

No Chop, man you are a real piece of work. typical carpet bagger type to come south and all you can talk about is how great the north is. If you want to watch the Mets and talk up the Mets GREAT, but why not do it with other Mets fans?

On Gonzo, the elbow thing explains his early season. Hopefully, a little R and R and he will be fine.

I don’t get people saying the LaRoach trade was a bust if Gonzo gets hurt after the trade happens. What if LaRoach is struck by lightning today, is the trade then good for the Braves? I don’t see how you can look at the trade this soon after it happened. Neither Gonzo or LaRoach is doing anything so far this year so in my perspective the trade is a wash, oh yeah, we got Lillibridge who is going to be a stud….

On Aybar, let’s just waive him and move on. So what if he’s our last link to Betemet, Betemet did nothing for me anyway.

DOB, did we receive a draft pick from Baltimore for Danny Baez signing there? Wasn’t he a type A free agent?

Thanks!

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE , your Mets are currently ranked number one in pitching and offense. They have the lowest ERA in the majors at 2.50 , they lead the N.L in runs scored with 76 , first in the N.L in RBI with 69. The Mets team batting average is .296 , tops in the majors. Scary isn’t it ? I knew the Mets offense was kick a.s.s , but that pitching , who are these guys ? They have out pitched everybody and I am beginning to think I was dead wrong in writing off their rotation before the season started.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Folks, I’ve got some VERY BIG NEWS about to be posted on the website regarding Aybar. Stay tuned. Can’t say it here until the story is posted.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Flange, yes, they got a pick, but not the first round pick from Orioles, which was “protected.” I’d have to check to make sure, but I think they got a second-rounder from O’s, plus a sandwich pick between first and second rounds.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Flange1……As the Geico commercial says: Yeah, I have a response….WHAT?? I never talked up the North in my post’s. What the Hell are you talking about??

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Okay, who was Aybar traded to? Is he traded, released, or what?!!?

By sri

April 19, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks for the Gonzo update. If Gonzo goes down for an extended period of time, do you think the Braves will trade for a reliever? Won’t the other teams ask for a steep price knowing that the Braves are desperate for help? I know it is too early for making any calls, but in your opinion do you think the Braves should trade one of their promising infielders for a middle reliever?

I hope that Thor can also heat up so that the only concern for the Braves come mid season might be middle relief and not acquiring another bat. Guess the upcoming Mets series will reveal if the batting lineup really has a gaping hole in it. Thanks again for all the updates ..for the upcoming Aybar update too :-)

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Two draft picks before the third round for Betemit , thats a pretty damn good deal. So , Aybar can go play hooky to his hearts content.

By sri

April 19, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

WOW!! substance abuse.. hope he reaches out and gets help. DOB what would happen now? If the Braves decide to stick with him(i hope they do), can they leave him DL for an extended period of time? Does’nt he have to be injured to be on the DL? Or is there another kind of abscence they can grant him(without pay?)

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

it’s posted now, but here it is:

By DAVID O’BRIEN dobrien@ajc.com

Suspended Braves infielder Willy Aybar is in Boston, struggling with substance abuse and trying to get his life and baseball career back in order, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution has learned.

His agent, Luis Valdez, said the distraught player was dealing with “drinking and drugs” and that he drove alone from Atlanta to Boston to be with his brother, Francis Aybar, who lives there.

Minutes later, Valdez backpedaled a bit and said he didn’t know if Aybar, 24, was involved in anything other than alcohol.

The agent said Aybar was too shy and embarrassed to reach out to anyone with the team. The Braves suspended him for three days after he failed to show up for injury-rehabilitation sessions Saturday and Sunday, then suspended him indefinitely on Wednesday when he failed to show up for a meeting with manager Bobby Cox.

Aybar is on the disabled list with a sprained right hand, which he hurt during winter ball and aggravated during spring training.

“It’s a situation where doesn’t want anybody to help him,” Valdez said. “He’s embarrassed for himself, for his family.”

The Braves have said only that Aybar was suspended for violating a team policy.

Team officials were unable to reach Aybar for several days until Sunday, and General Manager John Schuerholz said they were given no reason for his absence.

Valdez said Aybar was scheduled to meet with someone at the Major League Baseball Players Association in New York on Thursday, but overslept and wouldn’t be able to make it there until Friday.

“I just got off the phone with the brother,” said Valdez, adding that Aybar hadn’t had prior substance-abuse problems he knew of. “It’s very unfortunate. This is something that came out of the blue.

“He hasn’t gotten a DUI or been stopped or anything…. He’s just a young kid. He’s very shy, and it’s very hard to get to him. We’re trying to get him back into baseball. He took time off to deal with a problem.”

The Braves got Aybar and reliever Danys Baez from the Dodgers in a July 28 trade for infielder Wilson Betemit. Baez signed a free-agent contract with Baltimore after the 2006 season.

Aybar has a .292 career average and .387 on-base percentage with 26 doubles, five homers and 40 RBIs in 329 at-bats in the majors. He hit .313 in 36 games for the Braves last season and had a stint on the DL for a fractured left hand.

He hurt the other hand playing winter ball in his native Dominican Republic and missed much of spring training, first for visa problems and later the sore hand.

By flange1

April 19, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

No Chop,

Sorry let me break the analogy down for you:

carpetbagger is a yankee that comes south and likes to tell everyone how great the north is

No Chop is a Mets fan that comes to a Braves blog and talks about how great the Mets are.

Added inference: Mets are from the North, Braves blog is in the south,

Does it make sense now or should I break it down further?

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the update. Unfortunately, a situation like this doesn’t come as a complete surprise given the mysterious circumstances. Hopefully, he gets straightened out, and if he does; I hope he can rejoin the team, come off the DL, and be the utility player the Braves expected.

Regards,

Jason

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

I’ve been saying all year Coach,that The Mets have pitching. Many on this blog have underestimated their staff and will have to deal with me all season. I can NEVER be accused of degrading or demeaning the Braves team. I’ve kept my comments about the Mets as unbiased as possible when it came to predictions and projections. I simply feel they will prove over 162 games that they have a better team than the Braves…….

By Coach

April 19, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

My advice , get his butt in detox/rehab A.S.A.P. forget baseball for the moment and get his life in order , Pronto.

By flange1

April 19, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

On Aybar,

Well, I guess it lacks class to kick a guy when he’s down, so mabe we should give Aybar a chance to get his life back together. At least we know what the problem is !

On LF,

in reading some of the rumor sites, the Cubs are talking about IF Pie hits like they hope, moving Soriano to left and moving Jaque Jones. I wonder if we should consider cutting bait with Langerhans, making a trade for Jones and see how that plays out. I think he has this year and next on his contract which should give Blanco and or B jones a chance to get ready for the majors…

Thoughts?

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

The Braves need the DH rule…let Langerhans play LF, the pitcher hit, and Diaz can DH (:

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 19, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Flange:

I like Jacque - but, what would we have to give up to get him? Yates? Aybar? Langerhans? I don’t think they are going to give him away, and given the fact that Soriano has already gotten hurt once (jury is still out on how badly, or for how long he will be out), I think they are more likely to stand pat with who they have. Besides, how the hell are we gonna keep all the Jones’s straight? Let’s trade for players whose last name is Jones, and we can become the Atlanta Jones.

Aybar - wow - didn’t see that one coming. As someone who has had close brushes with drug and alcohol problems (family members and friends), I echo what you said Flange - can’t be bully about those problems - hope, as Coach said, he gets real help, real soon. Otherwise, he’ll be another Gooden or Strawberry, before its all over with, and he won’t even have had the opportunity to bask in the limelight before he went down the dead end path of addiction.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

SHEEEESH! Boozin and snoozin!? You can’t do that in Baseball… at least, if you are going to do that you need to show up and play like the great Bambino, or the less important and less significant Brad Penny. But at least they show up. Even Furcal showed up, after he was bailed out of course.
Hope he gets it squared away. It’s a bummer to hear. I get disappointed hearing he’s missing, just want to write him off. Then you slap those numbers up there and I realize he just might be a keeper.

So who’s blogging now? DOB on one side, Carroll with the new blog. We got a whole team working on this beat.

“Leads? Leads! I’ll check with the boys down in the crime lab. They got a whole team working on it. Got ‘em workin’ in shifts!”

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

FLANGE1…..What’s with the North and South thing? Are you hung up about something happened over 140 years ago? I live in America and I can blog anywhere I please. Check both the Mets and Braves rosters Pal. They have players from all over the country and in come cases the world. GET OVER IT!

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

We probably should’ve seen this with Aybar as clearly as we saw that something was wrong with Gonzo.

This is a “manageable” problem if he’s willing to get help - he sure as heck can’t keep it hidden any more. Good luck to him; I’m sure the Braves will offer a lot of support if he’ll let them.

As to the Braves - wow, Hampton, Gonzo, Paronto, Cormier, McBride, Boyer - we’re gonna find out how deep our pitching really is! Hopefully we’re getting our bad breaks behind us early.

By Cleanuphitter16

April 19, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Aybar, buddy, if you read this blog as you sit at home YOU CAN BEAT THIS. Believe it. Let those around you help you and get back on the field as soon as you are mentally able to do so. You know you are only hurting yourself in this, you don’t want that, but you don’t know how to stop it. Just let the people who care help you and you’ll be stronger for it in the end, back in the sunshine, and having fun playing ball. Believe it, man.

By flange1

April 19, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Scalp em,

You are right, I don’t think the Cubs will give J. Jones away, but remember they have Cliff Floyd and Matt Murton as well and I think they see Pie, Soriano and Murton as their outfield with Floyd as a fill in and pinch hitter.

In terms of value and what to trade, I don’t know. Personally, I would love to get rid or Villareal. I would punt Langerhans and or a prospect or 2. I know another issue is the $$$$ difference.

Just a thought!

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

flange1: Villarreal? That guy is solid. And he’s our only long reliever. And now that our pitchers are dropping like flies, we really aren’t in position to trade them for position players. And I doubt the Cubs would deal OF Jones for OF Langerhans. They already have enough in the OF even if we sweeten the deal with prospects.

By flange1

April 19, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

No Chop,

Sorry to try to use an anaolgy with you, I guess it was just over your head! I will try to use small direct words for you in the future…

My point has nothing to do with North and South, the point is this is a Braves blog read by Braves fans. You are a Mets fans. You come on the Braves blog, make snide comments about the lowly Braves and obtuse comments about the wonderful Mets, do you expect a lot of love?

You will not get that love here! Most folks won’t engage you out of Southern courtesy, but a few of us will be glad to tell you to either go away or to keep your Met mutterings to your self!

Yes, the Mets have a nice team. Maine is turning into a great young pitcher. Glavine is a HOF pitcher. Perez has talent, but it is still too soon to call him great. El Ducke is also a mystery, he can look good or bad. NO ONE KNOWS ABOUT PEDRO. If the Mets bullpen can be half decent, the Mets will be in the playoffs for 2 years straight.

Now are you happy?

By Lee

April 19, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

*Scalp ‘EM Braves - *Atlanta Jones now that was pretty funny.

By NO CHOP ZONE

April 19, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Maybe you don’t know how to express yourself correctly Falnge1….it’s ok, nobody’s perfect. Southern Courtesy??….That’s funny, I thought anyone was capable of courtesy…My bad.

By KC

April 19, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Last night on the post-game show, Ron Gant said they call Bob Wickman “The Sandman”, because it’s lights out and good night when he takes the ball.

THE SANDMAN… is that cool or what? Why hasn’t this caught on publicly.

Can anyone else envision him trotting from the bullpen to the mound with a sinister laugh, followed by Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” playing over the loudspeakers?

Speaking of good nicknames… how bout’ “Automatic Langerhans” (as in automatic out)?

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I posted earlier about Aybar being dead to me out of ignorance of his situation. I viewed him as surly and non-social, perhaps even considering himself above the team. Now it’s obvious that he needs help and needs to kick the addiction(s). I apologize for coming down so hard on him.

Willy, as long as you don’t give up neither will we.

Go Braves!

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

KC:

And they could show clips of “The Rifleman” when he comes out to hit. Maybe the reminder of his native Texas will help him at the plate.

Or better still, have him watch John Wayne in The Alamo. I’m showing it to my students this week. Man, talk about courage and toughness.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 19, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

“the sandman” is a somewhat generic nickname. i’ve heard it used before for other pitchers, although none jump to mind right away. that’s my guess, at least, for why that hasn’t caught on publicly for wickman…

By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan

April 19, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Unbelievable for anyone who watched this story develop from the spring. I do not like the agent attempting to make willie sound like the victem, using words like “Shy” and “Embarressed”. If you read between the lines of a press release you’ll see the bottom line. This guy is lazy and irresponsable. He’s spent too much time partying and having fun and hasn’t worked hard to earn the money he’s being paid. You guys are welcome to buy into this “Alchohol abuse problem” all you want, I will not. I may seem insensitive, but we’re not talking about a B-List actor/celebraty here, he’s a Professional Athlete and he has a responsibility. You get no pass from me. In your opinion, does this guy have any trade value? Or are we likely to see a Tony Pena Jr type deal?

By Renegator

April 19, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

How about we dump Langerhans and then we won’t need a nickname for him.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Save yo confederate money , boy’s ! Tha south is a gonna rise again ! Got that on a bumper sticker on the back of my pick’em up truck , you should see the looks I get , lol.

By Renegator

April 19, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

I think Trevor Hoffman used to (maybe still does) come out to Enter Sandman.

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

KC,

We’ll agree to disagree, then, on this trade, if Gonzalez can’t be of benefit for this season.

I come from the Brett Butler/Braves generation, and that trade was supposed to benefit the Braves for years, not just a year, and that blew not only the one season, but many.

By Coach

April 19, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

KC , read my six a.m. post , my exact thoughts pertaining to Langerhans.

By ncscoots

April 19, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Kieran, you’re a tough crowd, son. But of what “responsibility” are you speaking? That, as a professional athlete, Aybar has a responsibility to be a ballplayer first and foremost, without human frailty and flaws? Or something else? I admit, I’m curious about your reasoning, and I’m not trying to be snarky about it.

I don’t know enough about the situation to speak knowledgeably about it, and it may be that Aybar actually is as worthless as you seem to think. But would you feel the same way if he were suffering from a broken leg or kidney disease? Would that also be cause for kicking him to the curb?

By Lee

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

I actually do not pull for Langerhans to get a hit any more. I am afraid he may get on a little streak and get that average up to the Mendoza line and the Braves will want to keep him.

The original Sandman is on ECW.

By ZB Pike

April 19, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Well, at least one thing is consistent…if we start off slow…we complain, if we start of with the best record in MLB, we complain….

By Rodger

April 19, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Hoffman used to come in to “Hell’s Bells”

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Kieren, I don’t think many of us know much about Aybar’s personality - and maybe now the reason is clear.

However, guys who are just “lazy and irresponsable” don’t generally excel at team sports as teenagers, and get signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers at the age of 17.

No, much more likely that he’s got an addiction problem, which has caused him to separate himself from his teammates and allow himself to fall out of favor with his employers (and fans).

“Partying too much” is the kind of thing that happened to Rafael Furcal - and to many of us as young adults. You party, maybe you get popped for a DUI - and you walk away from that behavior because you realize it could cost your career.

An alcoholic not in treatment, on the other hand, would rather lose his career so he can be alone with his drink. It’s probably the most evident symptom of the disease.

Again, I don’t really know much about Aybar’s situation, but if the story as it’s been told so far, it fits the profile. And it can be managed if the “victim” of the disease is willing to seek help.

If addiction is Aybar’s problem, I wish him luck and hope the Braves will stand by him, just like I’d hope my employer would stand by me if I had a disease.

To me, you do indeed seem “insensitive,” but of course that’s your right.

By Paco

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

Hoffman comes out to Hells Bells…It’s Mariano Rivera that comes out to Enter Sandman — Not sure if he goes by that nickname but Yankee fans always sell shirts that refer to him as the Sandman.

By Sir Stealth

April 19, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

I’m pretty sure Trevor Hoffman comes out to “Hells Bells” by AC/DC. I’m sure “Enter Sandman” has been used a million times though.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

I’m not much into calling alcohol abuse a disease either, comparing it to smallpox or something. However, he is young and is now faced with the choice of learning the hard way or disappearing from the baseball map. I hope he makes the first choice. I don’t wish evil on him, but it is time to be a man, face your problems, and get the help you need. If you’ll repent (sorry, preacher word slipped out) and demonstrate to the team that you want to change, they’ll stand with you. Come on Willy!

By Rodger

April 19, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Does Krispy Kreme have a theme song/jingle? Maybe Wicky could use that.

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Matthew, I respect your 2:53 post. You sound like a man with both knowledge of an insidious disease (addiction) and compassion.

Kieran, you on the other hand … hey, you’re entitled to your opinion and to express it. But God help any person you might love who experiences such a problem and turns to your for help.

If the man has a problem, then the man isn’t to be blamed for acknowledging it and trying to get help. Money, fame, whatever doesn’t change it one iota. If you knew anyone who’s been through it or talked to any doctors who specialize in this area, you’d know that to be the case.

If he doesn’t have a serious problem, I really doubt he’d be using it as an excuse for being “lazy.” That’s just illogical. The man is suspended without pay, his reputation being dragged through the mud, red flags going up everywhere and his future being threatened, and you think he’s just being “lazy and irresponsible?” Explain, please.

Has he been lazy and irresponsible while putting up solid numbers throughout his career?

Or are you one of those who know everything and scoff at the notion of addiction being a disease, and just dismiss the respected doctors who ALL agree it is, indeed, a disease and a problem that many are predisposed to? (that ought to bring out a few dozen bloggers who love to jump on anyone who’s had an alcohol or drug problem, many of the same folks who drive home just over the tipsy line but have never been pulled over, and are thus above it all.)

I can see where plenty of people would get angry or frustrated by repeat offenders, those who blow chance after chance. I don’t personally agree with those people in most cases when they’re critical of relapsing alcoholics or addicts, but I can at least see where they’d get upset or angry.

But I just don’t understand at all how you can be critical of someone coming to grips for the first time with an alcohol and/or drug problem. Can’t see that at all. And like I said, if you’ve had a friend or loved one who’s dealt with such a problem, I think you’d probably be a bit more compassionate.

Ease up on the anger, man. The dude’s a lot more stressed out and upset today, I’m sure, over his situation than you are. His career’s in jeopardy. His life’s in disarray. At least let the guy try to get himself straightened out before you use amateur psychology and just cold-hearted analysis of his situation without any knowledge whatsoever of his circumstances.

Or don’t. That’s your call. Just a suggestion from me.

By ncscoots

April 19, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Matthew, sorry, but dealing with the problem of alcohol abuse isn’t as simple as telling someone to man up. You appear to be of the group that considers this kind of problem one of character, and not condition, and that is certainly your prerogative. Somehow, though, it disappoints me…can’t exactly say why, but it does.

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Matthew, I respect what you do and am sure you’re a great person. But boy oh boy do I want to argue with you!

Call it a “disease”, or call it a character flaw - doesn’t matter. It’s something that can’t usually be overcome without faith in God, a public admission of the problem (repentance?), and the support of others. And it happens to “good” people as well as bad.

Anyway, running the risk of discussing religion/politics on a baseball site, so (hopefully) my last comment on the topic (thanks to all for the applause).

By David O'Brien

April 19, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Matthew, sorry I applauded your earlier post, after seeing the most recent one.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 19, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Did I miss something? What exactly did Matthew say that brought the dogs out on him? From what I gathered, he’s encouraging Willy to seek help, and hold his head up rather than sulk and let the problem bury him. Where did he say that Willy isn’t a “good person?” Just because he doesn’t see it as a disease, that doesn’t compromise the point he’s trying to make, which is “buck up and don’t let it beat you, Willy.”

By eware

April 19, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

DOB, regarding Aybar’s visa, what would have happened to him if he’d been caught DUI or possession? Deported?

I’m glad he’s acknowledged that he has a problem and turned to a family member - it takes a big man to do that.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Look guys, you’re misunderstanding. Read both of my posts and you’ll find no condemnation for his getting into the spot he’s in. People make mistakes every day, and he made one. Okay, now what? The question is where to go from here? I’m not in favor of giving a free pass by calling it a disease without acknowledging some responsibility. My “man up” comment merely reflects his need to acknowledge his problem and try to deal with it. I know that you cannot overcome addiction by your own effort. At the same time, labeling it a disease gives room to not attempt overcoming the situation.

Ya’ll (can I say that on a Georgia based blog?), I feel for the kid. I have seen friends go down to alcohol, drugs, and other addictions. I have spent the afternoon praying for him while I’ve been working. I’m just uncomfortable equating alcoholism with muscular dystrophy or other diseases. This one is at least in part self-inflicted, similar to STDs. My use of the term “man up” came across the wrong way, and for that I apologize.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

MBATL:

Not sure I understand your “argument” with me. It seems that we are saying the same things, just using different terminology.

Again, for the last time, I wish the best for Willy and pray for his quick recovery!

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks Hillbilly.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 19, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I feel like I’ve rubbed some folks the wrong way, including DOB, so I’ll check out for a while. Re-read my posts and find my true intent before you come down on me. If you still disagree with my reasoning, that’s fine. We’ll agree to disagee and move on.

Will check in later tonight or tomorrow.

Go Braves!

By flange1

April 19, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Matthew,

I agree to a certain extent with you. I have a brother with a serious alcohol problem, and while I view it as a disease, to treat it, he must man up as you call and admit he has a problem. He continues to not man up and just let the situation continue, and while I agree it is a disease, treatment cannot be started or will not be effective UNTIL he man’s up.

I also agree that it is a disease but different from MS or cancer. With either of those 2 you can treat the disease or at least try to whether the patient believes he has the disease or not. With addiction, the first issue that must be addressed is admitting you have a problem and having a interest in correcting it.

My hopes are that Willy can admit to his problem, seek and receive treatment and put this behind him. I wish him the best in those efforts. It is a hard road to travel and he has many difficult days in front of him.

I guess this means Pete Orr gets a reprieve……..

By MBATL

April 19, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Matthew, I guess I backed off a little on the terminology issue (knew it as soon as I posted it). Your view that it’s not a disease is counter to my education and personal experience, and I think your view tends to discourage addicts from getting help. I actually do have a problem with your denial of addiction as a disease.

By TennesseePaul

April 19, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Awesome. We’re debating Addiction vs. Disease.
It’s a bummer to hear Willy’s in this situation, but I’m not sure it matters one way or the other what you call it. People need help in this situation and that’s pretty much the point. (Now let’s see how far my head roles, despite the lack of knowledge of my personal experiences and situation).
Uncontrolable habits or addictions are near impossible to beat on your own. If Willy’s problem is truly a bad one then it is good to hear he went to family to seek help. Though, considering the reports, it’s a little frightening to hear he drove there by himself. But no matter, to do such a thing sounds like he is “manning up” to a certain extent. Now he just needs to be honest with the Braves. They helped Furcal through his party stage, they can help Willy A. In the mean time, I’ll wait until more reports come out. So far it still seems a bit hazy as to the extent of the problem. The allusion and retraction to drugs by the agent could mean there is more there than has been admitted.

By Mr. J

April 19, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

Naturally everyone wishes that Willy is able to get straightened out, even those who consider addictions moral failings, not diseases. Here’s a question that has nothing to do with the state of Aybar’s health or the condition of his soul: How much did the Dodgers know about this when he was traded? “Our garbage for their garbage” I think was an anonymous quote that was thrown out there on this blog a couple weeks back, attributed to some LA scout if I remember right. If they knew did they tell the Braves? Should they have? Are there professional ethics that apply to situations like this in professional baseball, or is it strictly “buyer beware?”

By KC

April 19, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

For those not monitoring the other blog… Carroll just reported that Gonzo’s MRI was negative. He should be available in a couple days.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 19, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Its really sad to hear about Aybar. I hope he gets his life together and exercises whatever demnons have caused his addiction.

I have to respectfully disagree with some on here who have insinuated that Aybar is “irresponsible and lazy”. Look, I’m the first person who will say that I get sick of people always whining and blaming their problems on other people or things. I believe that if people want to quit doing something they will do it. However, I know its not that easy. Like smoking. If someone really wants to quit smoking, then they will take whatever stpes necessary to do it. As far as I’m concerned Aybar has taken a small step in fixing his addiction. He went to his brother and asked for help. Sure, he should have informed the Braves of what was going on but he was embarrassed. That is a plausible excuse to me. We have to remember this kid is from a different part of the world. Not everybody announces their problems and unashamedly admit their addcitions like we do here in America.

Who’s to say what Aybar was thinking. Maybe he was afraid the Braves would think differently of him. If he respects Cox and JS like most do, he was probably fearful he would disappoint them. Now, it doesn’t make any sense to just run. But, we all know people do irrational things when under stress or scared.

Look, we all know now (or should) that Aybar isn’t some primadonna who just didn’t show up for work or some head case that doesn’t want to work. He has a problem. Yes, alcoholism is a disease. I believe its a disease that can be curtailed. My wife is from a family of alcoholics. Because of the alcoholism that runs in her family, she rarely drinks because she doesn’t want to get addicted. However, now is not the time to pass judgement on Aybar. He has an addiction and its one that he needs to cure before it ruins not only his baseball career but his life. His shyness, which I can empathize, really hurt him. I’m sure if he would have gone to Andruw, Chipper, Wickman, Frenchy, or McCann they would have helped him and provided him with support. His shyness made the team think he didn’t want to be there, but that was not the case. Lets just hope he gets clean, gets his life in order, and can get back on the field.

I do have to wonder if the entire “visa” incident in spring training was really all about the visa. People were noting that something was wrong with Aybar from the day he arrived in spring training. Now, we know those suspicions were true.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 19, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this

Great news about Gonzales. Now, all the doom and gloomers can move onto another subject. Hell, who am I kidding?! They will harp on this to the bitter end. I swear. If I didn’t know any better, I would say some on here subconsciously hope the Braves do suck this year.

By Efrim

April 19, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Can we be cautious and keep Gonzo out for a week. I know its the Mets and Marlins coming up, but lets think of the season here.

By Ron Roberts

April 19, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Gloom and doom? The guy’s flat-out sucked, so far, and he’s a key ingredient to the team’s success, this year. We gave up a lot to get him, and expect better out of him.

I hope I’m dead wrong about my gut feeling on the whole trade; I thought getting him was a bit of overkill, when it came to rebuilding our ‘pen, but now that we got him, I’d like to see him deliver the results he did in Pittsburgh.

There’s nothing pessimistic about being disappointed in his performance, thus far, nor is there anything pessimistic about being concerned in his sharp velocity-drop. It is something to be conerned about.

So the question now is, if there’s no elbow damage, then were did the velocity go? And if it’s just “the weather,” then what good’s he gonna be for us if/when we’re playing meaningful bsaeball in the chilly month of October?

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

As an encouragement that someone can overcome drug and alcohol problems, take a look at Josh Hamilton in Cincy. He is the guy that was the number one overall pick when Beckett went number 2. He has been out of baseball for a few years battling drug problems, but Cincy took a flyer on him. He has a double and a homer today giving him a .345 average to go along with 5 HR and 11 RBIs. People in Cincy are raving about him. It is good to see people overcome obstacles in life and reach their goals!!

Regards,

Jason

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Do you think Andruw should maybe go to the plate looking for that curve at the beginning of the at bat…maybe…just maybe…

By jb

April 19, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

All this talk about Langerhans bat. At least he plays stellar defense. 1B is getting no offense, and they sure don’t play stellar defense there. Give Diaz more at bats at 1B. Wilson may have a track record to support sticking with him, but he showed signs his numbers are going downward last year and they positively stink this year. I don’t see him putting up numbers close to his career averages anymore.

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

We can’t waste this once in every 5 year type performance from Redman!!!!

By JasonInMaine

April 19, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Well, we ran into a tough pitcher tonight. We have to take two of out 3 this weekend to reclaim 1st after tonight! I look forward to a great series!

By Kieran, Long Island Brave Fan

April 19, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

A RESPONSE TO THE MASSES…

(apologizing in advance for typos/misspellings, the energys not there tonight)

Though I knew as I was typing my words were going to be viewed as insensitive, I want to make it 100% crystal clear, in neon letters that I DO NOT mean to belittle the disease that is Alchoholism, those who suffer from it, or the horrible symptoms and situations it creates. I have had ancesters before me who have suffered from it and probably should do some work to be more in tune with it myself. My post was my instant reaction to a breaking news report and was fuelled by my gut assessment of this mans personality and behavior based on the exa,ples I have seen. Sometimes we tend to view the world as sports as a somewhat plastic fantasy land, but I realize that We’re are talkign about a human being here and rashly summing up his charcter in an frustrated paragraph is not acceptable, opinion or not.

My the point I was trying to make was that this seems to be a guy who makes excuses for himself.  I do not know Willie, I am jumping to conclusions, and I understand that many view that as wrong, and perhaps it is.  At somepoint, when you become a professional athelete you need to relaize that you do not have the social freedom as teh rest of teh world.  Your public image becomes apart of what people think you are.  When I read the article, and picked apart the words, the fact that an Agent pops out of nowhere and tells the press, the world, and the atlanta Braves management out of the blue, "WILLIE HAS A DRUG AND ALCHOHOL PROBLEM"  and then 2 minutes later says "Well, I dont know about drugs actually, but alchohol"  it seems strange to me.  Willie has spent the past few weeks as the bad guy and shouting out "HE HAS A DISEASE" immediatly invokes sympathy from the masses, as you can see by everyones reaction to my first post.  I Instantly viewed it as a power play.  If I'm wrong here than I'm being a compelete cynical a-hole who is over analyzing someones life that I do not know.  But before we start lighting a candle for this guy think about what you would do if you were he and his agent and you were deep in the doghouse, an Atlanta Braves doghouse that is not a kind one.  "It doesnt make sense to say you have a disease when you don't"  Think that over, for an honast man perhaps, but for a tactful agent why not turn an angry crowd into a sympathetic crowd.  First it was the hand, then the visa, then the hand again, then he doesnt show up in bobbys office, then he OVERSLEEPS, all of a sudden he's in Boston with an Alchohol problem.  My imediate reaction was that this was another excuse, hence the viciousness of my afternoon post.

I understand where all you are coming from and I think you’re right for coming after my words, they were harsh and insensitive, If I got paid to do this, I would be Don Imus’ed in my first week. But understand where I’m coming from.

I’d like to think I’d do whatever I had to for those I love David, going after my dedication to my family and friends is a bit harsh as well, and is a but more personal then a Willie Aybar conversation should be.

See what I did there, I made you feel sorry for me(haha)…

It’s all good in the hood, I think you do an awesome job creating and maintaining this blog. You’re an innovator and are incredibly dedicated to what you do, and we all benifit from that. Because so many idiots in the blogosphere it’s understandable that you are so accustmed to being sharp with public responses. Don’t spften up for anyone, but at the same time, relize that not everyone out here is a fool.

By David O'Brien

April 20, 2007 12:34 AM | Link to this

Kieran, I appreciate and respect the response.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 20, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this

Kieran:

Good 11:31 p.m. post. While I have never dealt with alcoholism myself, I have lost family members to it and know firsthand how devastating it can be. I never want to come across as insensitive, especially “hitting ‘em when they’re down.” If I came across as overly harsh yesterday (which I obviously did) then I apologize. I don’t want to pile on Aybar either, and it seems like he is trying to change. I wish him all the best, whether he plays for Atlanta or not.

By the way everybody. If you haven’t heard, there will be a moment of silence observed at noon in memory of the victims of the Virginia Tech shooting. If you are a man or woman of prayer, please keep the families of the victims and the school as a whole in your prayers today. They need all the support they can get.

By Matthew, Walter's Dad

April 20, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Did everyone move over to Carroll’s blog, or am I missing where the new one is?