Braves

By ECU Grad

April 27, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

First? Sure would be a great way to start the weekend!

By eric the elder

April 27, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Some are speculating - - correctly, I think - - that the recent signings of Smoltz and McCann, along with other salary realities, have doomed any idea of keeping Andruw.

I didn’t get any bites on this last time, but I’ll mention it again because it is relevant. Pendleton told Joe Simpson that he had been trying to work with Andruw’s swing, “but Andruw has his own agenda.”

The Braves are well known for not tolerating attitude. I wonder whether the Braves are making these moves now because they have already decided that Andruw should take his agenda elsewhere.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

The Yankees and Red Sox account for 45% of all merchandise sold in MLB. Below are the ratings for the games this weekend. This is why they will not shut up about the Red Sox and Yankees. The Yankees and Red Sox sell.

When it comes to TV ratings, the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry remains unrivaled. Sunday night’s 7-6 Red Sox win at Fenway - called by Jon Miller and Joe Morgan, and featuring Japanese pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka - was the most-watched Sunday night baseball game in ESPN history, averaging more than 3.9 million households.

That beat the previous Sunday mark of more than 3.8 million, set during the Sox/Yanks telecast of July 25, 2004 (the game following the memorable Alex Rodriguez/ Jason Varitek fight).

Sunday’s game also was the most-watched regular-season game on ESPN since the Cardinals/Cubs matchup of Sept. 7, 1998, when Mark McGwire broke the single-season home run record.

Fox, meanwhile, posted even more impressive numbers during its regional Saturday matinee games.

The network’s “Rivalry Week” matchups of Cubs/Cardinals and Red Sox/Yankees drew 4.7 million viewers (the Yankees game went to 70 percent of the country). The mark represents a 45 percent increase over the ratings from April 14.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

ECU Grad, be careful. The early bird gets the worm but the early bird eats alone.

By MBATL

April 27, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, really outstanding insight on the Smoltz signing. I certainly agree that Smoltz could have gotten a lot more guaranteed - at least 1 more year, on the open market.

I’m kinda surprised that the bar was set so high - 200 innings/year. I’d have thought he might fight for a minimum closer to 180 innings…

I know Smoltz has said (and I believe it) that he’ll never go through surgery again to extend his career. But 200 innings is a pretty high number as an option-maker. A sprained ankle other minor injury could jeapordize that.

Anyway, good deal for both sides, and just plain good news.

As to the starting pitching, I agree. Let Redman and Davies get a couple more starts, and if that doesn’t work out, Villarreal is an option (and hopefully Cormier will still be back).

The other option, not for now but maybe for later, is Soriano. If we can get Gonzalez consistently pitching like he has in the past, we’re pretty well covered for the 8th and 9th, and it might make sense to move Soriano to starter. Just another option, if SP becomes a crisis.

By flange1

April 27, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Another nice piece of work! I agree with you on the Villareal and Moylan ideas.

Any word on the injury to Boyer in Richmond? Any word from Willy Aybar? Will the Braves continue to keep him, albeit on suspension, if he remains unavailable?

Thanks for the great blog!

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

I would agree you give Davies 1 (maybe 2) more starts and if he continues to struggle send him back down and replace him with Villareal. Keep Redman in the #5 slot, and skip his spot in the rotation as often as possible. Give Redman at least a month or two and as soon as Davies shows signs of improvement in AAA bring him back up and cut Redman. We may as well get 10-12 starts out of Redman since we are paying him $750k; If the guy makes 12 starts, and gives us a chance to win in 6 of them, that is all we can really ask for isn’t it???

By Mike S

April 27, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

I’m pretty ignorant when it comes to managing a Major league budget but I think that maybe JS is getting the necessary contracts out of the way so he can sit down with Boras/Andruw with a more concrete figure when the time comes. Look for Francoeur to be signed before the all-star break.

By Spike

April 27, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

I think the Villareal move is inevitable. I also think Kyle Davies will be OK and Redman will be the one to go. I hope we don’t wait too long because with the other issues the Braves have with Wilson and Langerhans we could find ourselves giving away games we can’t afford. Even though it’s only the end of April, if we happen to finish one or two back we can look back to these last two weeks and find a game or two that would be the difference. I won’t be comfortable until we get production from left field and first base.

By Mike S

April 27, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

flange1, good question to ask about Aybar. Everything is fine now with Chipper healthy but as much as I like Orr he is not a good replacement. Im sure Cox is content with Orr on days off for Chipper and Escobar is ready if Chipper hits the 60-day.

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

O’Brien,

Good choice. I think Villareal is a solid option to join the rotation. As you say, it’s not perfect but he’s better than any other option. Should finish the season with an ERA around 4.50, very adequate for a bottom-of-the-rotation guy.

By Lew

April 27, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Flange-I don’t know if you saw my post at the end of the old blog, but sorry to hear of your loss. Hope you and the family are doing OK.

By Lew

April 27, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Spike-And production from our center fielder.

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Almost forgot Yoc talk. Added Suzanne’s words after the fact. They’re there now.

By N8

April 27, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

DOB

“Mark Redman has a 10.13 ERA in four starts, and has raised concerns about whether he can be the pitcher the Braves envisioned he’d be when they signed him in March to replace Hampton.”

Dude, I would sure as hell hope that THAT (10.13 ERA) is not what they “envisioned” when they signed him!

Raised “concerns”. WOW! That is the understatement of the year, don’t you think? (btw: I realize that since you might actually have to talk to Redman at some point soon, you personally don’t wanna rip him a new one in the paper)

But I do believe that we are learning first hand what apparently EVERY OTHER TEAM in the league already knew over the winter……Not only is he “done”, I think he’s the piece of meat that got left on the grill way too long, he’s done gone and got himself burnt to a crisp. Might as well give that one to the dogs……if THEY even want him.

By ECU Grad

April 27, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Rory,

True. But it’s always better to eat alone than not eat at all.

By rammerjammer

April 27, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

If Macay McBride is just “getting in some innings” at Richmond, why hasn’t he pitched since his three-inning start on Monday?

Could it be that when Cormier came up lame Wednesday, the call went to Richmond to get MM stretched out to start? That is, if that wasn’t the plan all along?

One thing’s for sure…JS didn’t invest all that energy fixing the bullpen to sit idly by and watch the rotation crumble.

DOB, I agree, Davies and Redman get probably two more starts to save/lose their jobs.

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

eric the elder,

I heard the interview, too. I don’t think you should read into the “he has his own agenda” comment too much.

I’m sure hitters and hitting coaches struggle all the time over mechanical things. Thinking that means Andruw isn’t a team player or anything like that is reading way too much into those comments Pendleton made.

By beachcomber

April 27, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

DOB - Great analysis on the rotation issues. Moylan looks better every time out. Also, there are just some lines you read that stick with you over the years - “iconic bearded man with the scarred elbow” will be one of those for me. First class job!

By TennesseePaul

April 27, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the Blog DOB!

I’m absolutely thrilled to see Smoltz has a new contract. I knew it would happen. Not a doubt in my mind. In a perfect world, new ownership will bring in new cash and figure a way to keep AJ for a resonable salary. And, after new ownership is approved in the next month, the Braves go on a 1 month long undefeated streak launching themselves to a WS victory which will be repeated for the next 24 years at least. Helluva dream. In the mean time I’m happy about Smoltz.

Villarreal is a great option for the rotation. I think Davies will figure it out. If Villarreal doesn’t swing it, then I wouldn’t mind seeing Moylan in there. Those 3 innings the other day showed a lot of promise. As for stretching Villarreal out… a couple more Redman starts should do the trick. Judging from Cox’s comments, that’s what we have to look forward to anyway.

Lastly, DOB, if you knew anything at all you would have used PECOTA as your source for propping up Smoltz. You can’t base anything on 5 starts. You’re out of your mind. Next time, just fill the blog with PECOTA PECOTA PECOTA. Hell, I had PECOTA for breakfast just to make sure I started the day off justifiably accurate. Your number crunching fails in comparison. What was that the other day, a simple PECOTA-less prediction? Laughable. I had a chance to take battign practice with PECOTA once. At the end of 3 sets he had this to say: Gunga galunga gunga. Which means, on your death bed you shall recieve total statistical awareness. So I got that going for me, which is nice.

By Jim

April 27, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

The preseason expectations that the Braves’ staff would be (much) better than the Mets’ are now turning upside down. The loss of Hampton, the possible loss of Cormier, and the inability of Davies to establish himself in the rotation has turned pitching from a strength into a possible liability. The continued soreness in Gonzalez’s elbow is another concern. The needs of the rotation right now is the most pressing concern.

One name to throw into the LF mix is Willie Harris. He played a reasonable outfield defense during the spring, He had a good offensive spring and has continued to hit at AAA. He can play a number of positions and would be a better bench player than either Woodward or Orr, and he would add a dimension of speed that is currently lacking. He is probably not a long-term answer, but he could have a Charles Thomas/Hurricane Hazel impact over the near term. I add my voice (again) to the give Thorman the full-time job and see how he does chorus. If .200 is the Mendoza Line, we might call .100 the Langerhans Line and Wilson must be hitting below the Langerhans Line.

By KC

April 27, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

“I think the Villareal move is inevitable.”

I hope so. One would think it’s likely. I mean, they’ve got to do something, and Villarreal’s the only real option they’ve got right now.

As far as waiting a couple more times through the rotation… I wouldn’t do it. Redman has been horrendous so far, but his 5.71 ERA from last year tells us we don’t want to depend on this guy. At least Davies has some potential.

Redman out, Villarreal in. If Davies doesn’t pitch reasonably well in each of his next 2-3 starts… then as soon as Cormier’s ready, Davies is out as well.

By N8

April 27, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

MBATL

“I’m kinda surprised that the bar was set so high - 200 innings/year. I’d have thought he might fight for a minimum closer to 180 innings…”

I think that right there shows you the kind of comittment Smoltz has to the Braves and wants them to have success in the future.

I’m guessing he doesn’t want to “hamper” their situation, by having an option automatically kick in for an old guy that can’t “earn his money”.

Not to knock on Hampton, because I realize that he WANTS to pitch, and his body won’t let him, but I’m guessing Smoltz realizes what that contract is doing to the Braves ability to add players, and probably wouldn’t want to be the same burden.

He appears to truly care about this organization with all of his heart. Kind of refreshing for a future HOF guy, isn’t it? (are you reading Tom Glavine?)

If Smoltz was all about the money and not about helping the Atlanta Braves succeed, he would’ve left 2 or three “extensions” ago. Coulda broke the bank with the Yanks a few years back. Chose not to, AND became our closer. Coulda hit the market before his last contract. Chose not to, after having to BEG to get back in the rotation. Certainly would’ve been attractive after this season, if not to Detroit for obvious reasons, to basically any team needing a guy to win between 15-20 games, give you 200 IP, and have an ERA well under 4.00.

Congratulations John Smoltz, you are clearly one of the “good guys”. You just solidified my reasons for you being my personal favorite Brave of all time.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

The SJA has about as much chance of playing center field for the Braves after this season…as Andruw Jones does…

By Carlos Amato

April 27, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Have you guys noticed that when Thorman and Langerhans are in, we have 7 out of 8 starters “born and bred” in our minor league system? (Renteria being the exception)

I think that is awesome and shows how solid this organization is.

DOB, are there any other ML teams with some much homegrown talent?

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

I don’t have an answer on Aybar. They’re still hopeful that he’ll be back soon. From what I understand, there are team and/or MLB officials aware of his whereabouts, more so than we’re being told, but they are keeping it quiet due to the sensitive nature of the situation. They want to get him back in the fold.

Unless/until Chipper gets hurt, it’s not something they have to worry too much about. I mean, if he got hurt tonight, you’d get by for a day or two with what you’ve got, and if he was going to be out any extended period, you could call up Escobar or Prado. Wouldn’t be a big gamble. Either would probably be productive.

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

“One thing’s for sure…JS didn’t invest all that energy fixing the bullpen to sit idly by and watch the rotation crumble.”

That’s certainly true… but I don’t think this rotation is going to crumble. Part of the recent struggles can be blamed on poor starts from Smoltz and James, and that’s not the norm for them.

Our rotation is as (or more) solid 1-3 as any team in the league. We’ve just got to get a couple guys at the back end of the rotation capable of posting an ERA below 4.50. If we do that, I think we’ll win the division.

I think Villarreal would do a capable job. Let’s hope Cormier can get back soon to claim the other slot.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

ECUGRAD, you said

But it’s always better to eat alone than not eat at all.

That’s what Bob Wickman keeps preaching to Tim Hudson.

By rammerjammer

April 27, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

I wonder how much of a role Smoltz’ divorce played in his decision.

After all, if he left Atlanta, he’d lose a lot of time with his kids. Now, he’s there for them and vice versa.

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

SJA: That could very well be the case… but lets at least wait until the sale is finalized to see what the new owners do.

But if Andruw’s “market value” comments means he’s going to the highest bidder… yes, he’s gone. Even when the Braves had one of the top payrolls in the game every year, they were never the hightest bidder for free agents. They made fair offers, but never really engaged in bidding wars, even when they had the means to do it.

By flange1

April 27, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Thanks Lew!

By flange1

April 27, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

DOB, Thanks for the Aybar update!

By N8

April 27, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

SJA

Are you willing to take the outside pitches to RF?

Jack A$$, Jack A$$, he’s our man if he can’t do it…..aw, never mind.

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Hey… say…

Anyone still want to tell us what an idiot Schuerholz was for trading for/signing Tim Hudson, and how you knew all along it was the wrong move???

Anyone? Haven’t heard from you folks lately.

By mr baseball

April 27, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Tyyosh: A lot of the tough Braves losses in the post-season were not necessarily Cox’s fault. I purposely didn’t cite the 2 instances regarding Leibrandt, because Cox’s other options weren’t any better. Jeff Reardon almost singlehandedly lost the ‘92 World Series, and his failures put Cox in an untenable position that year.

I guess because it’s the most recent example of his mis-managing the pitching staff in the post-season, what he did in ‘05 may be his worst ever display, and not just Game 4 with Farnsworth.

What particularly bothers me about Cox is not what he did the other night with Hudson. Although I disagreed with leaving him in as long as he did, Cox’s decision was understandable and subjective. When to take out a pitcher who is dealing as well as Hudson was is an extremely tough call, and I don’t totally fault Cox for it.

The ‘05 Series against the Astros, however, provided a vivid display of how little is going on between Cox’s ears when it’s time to make a decision. Twice during that series, he brought Tom Martin into the game to turn Berkman around. Berkman is a better hitter lefty than righty, but not by a huge amount. Martin, on the other hand, is absolutely incapable of getting RH hitters out, and that’s all Houston had, other than the switch-hitting Berkman.

Martin shouldn’t have been on the roster against the Astros, but Cox trotted him out twice to face Berkman, who went 2-for-2 against him and helped break both games open. Martin faced 5 batters in that series and did not retire one of them. It was painfully obvious AHEAD OF TIME that Martin’s problem with RH hitters outweighed Berkman’s slight difficulty with lefties, but Cox evidently wasn’t bright enough to figure that out.

As far as Farnsworth, the one thing regarding him Cox had to take into account, but failed to do so, was the realization that Berkman totally owned him. Cox should have done everything he could to keep Farnsworth away from Berkman, but once again, he trots him out in the 8th with the Braves well ahead and other pitchers available. Farnsworth struggles, gets some bad breaks, here comes Berkman with men on base and the inevitable happens.

It’s not always a bad thing to manage with your heart. But sometimes you simply have to use your brain. After years of close inspection, you have to wonder sometimes if Cox has one.

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

KC,

John Maine or Chcuk James???

Who do you take right now for the rest of the season?

By Rory

April 27, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

BILL PECOTA hit .323 for the Braves in 1993. Oh, wrong PECOTA, huh?

Well, I’m headed to PECOTA UGLY tonight. It should be a blast. Rumor has it that Bill James and Rob Neyer dance around on top of the bar with Dayn Perry at this bar. A wild and crazy place.

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

Jim: “the continued soreness in Gonzalez’s elbow is another concern.”

Jim, did I miss something? I was under the impression that his arm was 100% now.

“One name to throw into the LF mix is Willie Harris. He played a reasonable outfield defense during the spring, He had a good offensive spring and has continued to hit at AAA. He can play a number of positions and would be a better bench player than either Woodward or Orr, and he would add a dimension of speed that is currently lacking. He is probably not a long-term answer, but he could have a Charles Thomas/Hurricane Hazel impact over the near term. I add my voice (again) to the give Thorman the full-time job and see how he does chorus. If .200 is the Mendoza Line, we might call .100 the Langerhans Line and Wilson must be hitting below the Langerhans Line.”

I am with you on all of the above. Nice post.

By Bubba

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

DOB:

Are there any free agent pitchers next year that the braves might be able to make a move on? I glad we locked up smoltze and Hudson for a few more years but it wuoldnt hurt to sign another stud starter.

By DonCoburleone

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

“Some are speculating - - correctly, I think - - that the recent signings of Smoltz and McCann, along with other salary realities, have doomed any idea of keeping Andruw.

I didn’t get any bites on this last time, but I’ll mention it again because it is relevant. Pendleton told Joe Simpson that he had been trying to work with Andruw’s swing, “but Andruw has his own agenda.”

I totally agree and anyone who doesn’t see that this is Andruw’s last season in Atlanta is totally kidding themselves. With the way Francoeur is hitting this year, it looks like he is going to be more than ready to take over the #4 spot in the lineup. In fact, I think he may be a better cleanup hitter than Andruw this season! Now I’m not saying Andruw is overrated or won’t be missed, but lets face it, a lineup next year consisting of KJ, Renteria, Chipper, Francoeur and McCann (in that order) is still a very formidable 1-5. Maybe throw in a FA signing like Mike Cameron or Eric Byrnes to hit 6th, Thorman 7th, and then left fielder 8th and you’ve got an offense that is still capable of being in the top 5 in runs scored…

By Rodger

April 27, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Also, there are just some lines you read that stick with you over the years - “iconic bearded man with the scarred elbow” will be one of those for me. First class job!

Indeed, that looks like a Hemingway line. Is a Wurlitzer in the balance?

TP, yeah, I love the chicken PECOTA at Olive Garden.

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

I’m not worried about our offense. The team will score runs. Our starting pitching is in trouble.

By Fed Up

April 27, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Andruw is melting down. He’s never handled pressure well. He’s never hit well with RISP. Now that it’s his walk year, he’s stinking up the joint. Great defense. Overrated bat. Let’s bring somebody up or sign somebody else. Signing Andruw would be a huge mistake, we’ve seen the best of him.

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Efrim: “John Maine or Chcuk James??? Who do you take right now for the rest of the season?”

Well obviously if you were just going on their performance through the firsts 3-4 weeks of the season, you’d have to go with Maine. But while I’ve believed in Maine for a while now, I’m not convinced maine is better than Chuck James. Time will tell.

regardless, if your question was in response to my assertion that the Braves’ rotation is as strong 1-3 as any team in the league… yes, I do believe that.

Glavine/El Duque/Maine vs. Smoltz/Hudson/James… I’ll take Atlanta’s hand.

Even with Pedro/Glavine/and Maine or El Duque as their 3rd starter… I’ll still take Atlanta’s rotation 1-3.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

I don’t take either James or Maine for my rotation. I take Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, and El Duque. If Hampton is healthy, I take Hampton. If my team is facing the Braves, I take Oliver Perez over all of them.

This all goes back to The Carolina Lady’s post from yesterday.

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Don C,

I agree. Andruw is out. Next years lineup will probably be:

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

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

DonC: “With the way Francoeur is hitting this year, it looks like he is going to be more than ready to take over the #4 spot in the lineup. In fact, I think he may be a better cleanup hitter than Andruw”

Agreed.

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

I take Pedro/Glavine/El Duque over our three. I’m sorry…..I just think in a playoff series, they would pitch better. More experience….Orlando is money in the playoffs. Yes, I’m a Braves fan, but that’s my opinion.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Willie Harris: .238, .306, .294

Ryan Langerhans: .244, .338, .380

Matt Diaz: .299, .339, .445

Craig Wilson: .262, .353, .473

Pete Orr: .277, .303, .363

Woodward: .247, .303, .383

Let’s keep this simple: STFU about Willie Harris already. He’s not any of those guys above and they’re not all that good in the first place either. Harris, Orr, and Woodard are barely scratching the Frenchy OBP line

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

TennPaul, that’s funny stuff. PECOTA, Pagoda, Biff Pocaroba, Picabo Street … whatever it takes.

Regarding the iconic bearded man, and to think I just wasted what apparently was a good line in a blog. Hey, I didn’t mean that. Nothing’s wasted here on the denizens of Braves/MIB.

Ya’ll must have a lot of interest in the Braves, because I ain’t hearing any feedback on the good lady in Athens. Yoculan rules.

By Nikki

April 27, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

It’s about time the Braves step up to the plate. Too bad they didn’t do right by Glavine. I still cringe @ the thought of him in a Mets uniform.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

DOB

Heard your interview on Charlie Steiner’s XM show a little while ago. Good job. He asked an interesting question about the possibility of moving Frenchy to CF if Dru left after this year. I had not considered the issues you discussed, i.e., his instincts on getting a jump on the ball are perhaps not what one would want for CF, and that he is perfectly suited for RF. I’m glad I heard that. Otherwise, I would have been clamoring to move him there if Dru left, without considering the possibility of Brandon Jones. Do you think Brandon will be ready for the bigs next year?

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

Are you kidding? I hope it’s a breakthrough year for Francouer but a better cleanup hitter than Andruw Jones?

I think Andruw leaving the Braves will have pretty much everything to do with economics and not much to do with ability (of AJ or any other player) or with AJ’s attitude.

Again, I think people are reading way too much into Pendleton’s “he has his own agenda” comment. Seems that hitters and hitting coaches always have minor disagreements on hitting techniques. Doesn’t mean AJ is a rebellious, cancerous, Bonds-type personality. With all due respect, I think it’s ridiculous to assume that from five words uttered by Pendleton.

By TennesseePaul

April 27, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

[Villarreal] Should finish the season with an ERA around 4.50, very adequate for a bottom-of-the-rotation guy

Where is the source for this suggestion? Especially considering, seasons in which Oscar pitches more than 19 innings he has a cumlative ERA of 3.07 to go along with this: Villarreal is 1-0 with a 3.86 ERA in five career starts, including a 3.50 ERA in four starts last season

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

STFU,

Rory is right. Willie Harris is basically a pinch-runner.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Another day, another Bulldog arrested.

By KC

April 27, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Efrim: “I take Pedro/Glavine/El Duque over our three. I’m sorry…..I just think in a playoff series, they would pitch better.”

Efrim, I can understand your taking El Duque over an unproven James in a playoff situation… but if we’re talking October baseball… I’ll take Smoltz and Hudson over Pedro and Glavine any day of the week and twice on Sunday. No question.

Smoltz is the most prolific (and most proven) post-season pitcher in baseball history.

Smoltz/Hudson combined post-season numbers: 16-7 with a 2.90 ERA

Pedro/Glavine combined post-season numbers: 20-18 with a 3.33 ERA

And neither combination really has any more post-season experience than the other.

But overall, the way Hudson looks right now… I would take Smoltz and Hudson into October over any 1-2 punch in baseball, hands down.

And I’ll tell ya, if I were a Mets fan and looked at Glavine’s post-season numbers over the past 4 seasons, it would scare me. I’d think “uh oh… he’s due for another October implosion”. Every other year… it’s on a cycle. =)

By eric the elder

April 27, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Shaun, you might be right about my reading too much into TP’s comment. However, that was the second time this month that TP spoke of his frustrations with Andruw. It’s not the Braves’ style to make what at least appear to be critical comments about players so publicly.

I considered the possibility that TP was just trying to deflect criticism from himself, but he is too much of a standup guy to do that. I also don’t think TP was being a loose cannon. Simpson apparently thought the comment was meaningful enough to report it, so it just makes me wonder. You still might be right, though.

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Yes, I looked Villarreal up in a projection system. Villarreal’s minor league ERA was 4.40. His major league ERA is 3.53. Take into account things like K rate and BB rate (which are more reliable than past ERA), the fact that starting is a little more challenging that relieving, etc. and you get around a 4.40 ERA.

By Robert

April 27, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

of all the names mentioned in trade so far, the one that makes the most sense is Reggie Sanders

He’s an aging vet who can still help a team, but whose salary isnt a big bargain and who is currently on a bad team

The Marlins arent going to trade Dontrelle for drick dreck and druck. The Reds arent going to trade Hamilton who is showing some return after investment of a lot of time and patience, for three lottery tickets, even if one of them is hitting .310 at AA

But a couple of mid level prospects for Reggie Sanders? Or you know, with his salary, Sanders salary, and the Royals’ situation, propose Kyle Davies and a middling minor leaguer to be named later for Sanders - done thank you and see ya

By krath

April 27, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

I think signing Smoltz is a great move!

I think I would take Smoltz at about 13 mil a year for 3 years before I would take Gil Meche at 11 mil a year for 5 years.

Giving a 40 year old pitcher a 3 year contract (2 or 3 depending on options) is not something I would have advised ten years ago, but these old farts that are still around and pitching effectively are making a believer out of me.

Yankess are paying Petite 16 mil for this year. Jason Schmidt is making 15.5 a year. Barry Zito signing for what amounts to 18 mil a year!

I suppose Smoltz is a bargain.

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone, Are you kidding? I hope it’s a breakthrough year for Francouer but a better cleanup hitter than Andruw Jones? I think Andruw leaving the Braves will have pretty much everything to do with economics and not much to do with ability (of AJ or any other player) or with AJ’s attitude.

No I’m not kidding. I mean, look at this honestly. Take away Andruw’s 51 homer season (which I believe was an aberration rather than him realizing his full potential) and he has basically averaged 35 homers and about 115 RBI’ for his career. You honestly don’t think Francoeur is going to average close to 35 homers and 115RBI over the next 8-10 seasons?

That said, I still agree with your second point, it is about economics… That’s what happens when you don’t have the resources of teams like the Cubs, Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers or Angels…

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

But not one of Yoculan’s Bulldogs, of that you can be assured.

By tvsportscaster

April 27, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

While anyone at this point would be better than Redman, I in no way want to see Villarreal in the rotation. In my opinion is nothing more than a long reliever. I would at this point see what Matt Harrison could do if Cormier is out for a long period of time. Afterall, Harrison couldn’t possibly be any worse than Redman now could he?

By Chop Chop

April 27, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

DOB, we just don’t know how to broach the Yoculan topic without thinking about female gymnasts.

‘Tis better that we keep quiet…

By flange1

April 27, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Hey Robert,

I don’t disagree with the Reggie Sanders hing, but if you trade Davies who will start?

By TennesseePaul

April 27, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Payne: I see… so his ERA has dropped 0.10 since your initial post. I suggest you keep looking him up. By the end of the day the figures might actually reach his MLB output.

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone,

Francouer will probably drive hit a lot of homers and drive in a lot of runs because he has power, is in the lineup everyday and hits behind some great hitters. But look at the most meaningful career stats:

AJ - .266 AVG/ .345 OBP/ .505 SLG

Frenchy - .272 AVG/ .309 OBP/ .479 SLG

Now, I do think Francouer will improve a good bit because he’s 23. But a better cleanup hitter this season than Andruw Jones? Barring a complete disaster or miracle, that won’t happen.

By ECU Grad

April 27, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Rory,

SIMPLY CLASSIC!!

Blog,

Wouldn’t it be great for a sweep this weekend? That would make it a 6-3 road trip. You have to like that, no matter the time of the year or who it’s against!

By Shaun

April 27, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Around 4.50 is what I meant.

You are basing everything on Villarreal’s past major league performance alone. How about looking into past performance and the following: Other things that are better indicators of future ERA like K rate, BB rate and HR rate; the fact that good starters usually post higher ERA’s than good relievers; etc.

By N8

April 27, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Flange

“I don’t disagree with the Reggie Sanders hing, but if you trade Davies who will start?”

NOT Davies, isn’t that the point?

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

It was in no way mere conjecture based exclusively upon financial considerations on the part of the SJA when I made the statement concerning my playing center field for the Braves, after this season, rather than Andruw Jones…however, I would be willing to sign for at least $2 mil. less annually than whatever he will be expecting…

It did have more to do with my having more confidence in my abilities to handle that position, in lieu of Andruw…

I’m certain that I can go to right field at will, I cover the plate quite well, and I’m damn sure that I can hit!…just not sure about a baseball…

By Rodger

April 27, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

DOB, we see you like the woman, but don’t drool on her leotard-lol

By Jersey Gil

April 27, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Hello DOB In your opinion how far JJ Reyes and Manny Acosta for make the mayor team? Acosta doing ok with Richmond and JJ with Miss…I think and i’m still believe the Rotation situation answer is in the Minor, not by trade any of ours prospect. What is your Opinion

By John Adcox

April 27, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Escobar or Prado being productive, is it reasonable to assume that one or the other of them might be more productive than our left field platoon? It seems to me, one or the other could start and second, and move Kelly Johnson to LF.

I am a huge fan of KJ’s work at second; he’s been a joy to watch and a blast to root for. No question. But given his versatility, would it make sense to use him to plug the offensive hole in left while not losing too much with Escobar or Prado in the 8th spot?

Yes, I know it’s not going to happen. It’s not how the Braves work. But it seems worth talking about.

John Who has just discovered a group called the Burns Sisters Band. Great, great stuff.

By N8

April 27, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Shaun

Try this once, since you’re the numbers guy. (Really, I’m being nice - not smart a*******y)

Give me the comparison for Andruw’s career WITHOUT the two monster seasons. Say for instance, Andruw’s first 3 years.

Just curious.

I’m in the middle on this subject. I think Andruw is a more patient hitter (did I actually just type that), but Francoeur is a better “bad ball” hitter. So it may just be a wash.

I think I’m with you on this one Shaun, THIS YEAR Andruw will probably end up with better numbers by the time the season is over, but I totally believe that Francoeur could be our cleanup hitter for the next 5-7 years, if not longer. Remember, Andruw batted in the 5-6-7 spots until a few years ago.

No sense rushing Francouer this early in his career.

But then again, if Andruw is going to “outperform” Francoeur, he’s got some catching up to do. Assuming Francoeur doesn’t go into a month long funk, which can surely happen at any time.

By Jmart

April 27, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

I believe that JS is finally figuring out that you have to make “during the season” contract negotiations. The risk of upsetting a player during the season if the contract negotiations stall is better than giving the whole club the impression that “even the stars” are not valued. It also gives JS a jump on the post season by having his starters locked up. He can then concentrate on free agents and trades. I applaud JS for his apparent change of heart with regard to during the season negotiations. There are several Richmond Braves hitting well. I believe that the time has come to give one of them a shot at left field. I really like Langerhans but Baseball is a business. He is under so much pressure that he looks like a deer in headlights. The “Langerhans line (.100)” made me laugh but also made me sad. Its hard to make fun of players that you have grown to like and pull for. Sometimes we observers forget just how talented anyone who gets to put on a major league uniform is. I am glad that many of you don’t get to observe my job performance. I’m good but I’m not perfect.

By meansonny

April 27, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

DOB It’s been near a decade since my tenure in the Classic City. Yoculan was queen of the castle, lady of the manor back then. My circles didn’t intertwine with the Gymdawgs too often. But the way I heard it, her voice carried as much weight on that campus as Dooley. Today, that means that she more than anyone, could rival the Evil Emperor(Adams) if it came to a pi$$ing match. That said, the school does it’s best to supply her with what she needs.

She’s a true leader. I’m extremely glad for all the successes that she has shared with the Bulldawg Nation.

By flange1

April 27, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

N8, Yes, I do see the point, but with Cormier out, Hampton out, Redman struggling and Davies struggling, if we have to have 2 from this list start, if you move Davies then Villareal has to start and Redman has to start….. My stomach turns at the thought!

By Randy

April 27, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

DOB - Why does Hampton’s $15mil next year only count as $9mil for the Braves? I thought Florida and Colorado were through picking up some of his salary.

I agree about this Smoltz deal giving fans a bit of reassurance regarding the new ownership. Upon hearing about the deal, the question was “is payroll going up or staying the same?” I had completely forgotten about the fears of payroll going down.

Oscar seems like the default answer for the rotation. Unfortunately, it looks like Davies will stay as well. I say unfortunately because he so clearly needs time in AAA. His mental and mechanical problems are so obvious, but Redman has been dreadful.

By bergian

April 27, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

On the previous bog, there was mention of Carlos Zambrano…..Did anyone see on baseball tonight a few days ago, Steve Phillips comments on him? He showed video of him from last season, and this season. And typical of Phillips, he made some good points, but missed what seemed pretty obvious to me. Phillips showed that Zambrano’s motion was different, that he arm angle was more 3/4’s and his fastball and breaking pitches were flatter because of this. All true, but, when he showed the last year vs. this year clips, it looks like he is hurt. Could “just” be his back, or he is trying to get his arm in a different position to keep it from hurting. He just looks old, wrong, so far this year. I know some wouldn’t want him, but I think his fire would be just what we would need in the playoffs. Of course, if he isn’t too hurt, the Yankees will pay him 20 Mill a season next year…so it’s all moot! ;)

By MBATL

April 27, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Villarreal is an option if we really need a guy to start a few games, but there’s no reason to think he’s a savior.

He started 4 games last year, and averaged 4.5 innings per start. And those starts were against the Nats (twice), the Pirates, and the Phillies (3 runs in 5 innings). So 3 of 4 weren’t against murderer’s row. He never went more than 5 innings.

BTW, if we’re gonna call anyone up to start (and I’m in no rush to do so), I still say Dan Smith is the guy.

By TennesseePaul

April 27, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Payne: Actually, I was looking at everything, including taking into account the fact that Villarreal is heading into his peak years, which everybody here knows is when players come out to perform their best. I can’t believe you didn’t factor that in.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Good Yoculism DOB. She’s right - everybody over here (Bama) hates her because she stomps the fool out of the Crimson Turds’ precious Sarah Patterson year in and year out, and makes those poor gymnasts cry at losing.

Shaun: For once (can’t believe I’m saying this!) I completely agree with you on Dru and TP. I don’t think TP was calling Dru out by making the statement. He was just saying what was on him mind. I think Dru’s “agenda” is to get hits and HR’s. Let’s hope that is every batter’s agenda. I just think Terry was expressing Dru has different ideas about how to get hits than TP does. Much ado about nothing, as far as I am concerned.

By CC Rider

April 27, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

DOB, I mentioned this the other day, but it was late and I don’t think you answered it. I agree with Villareal in the rotation, but I would like to see the Braves consider Moylan for the 5 spot. Davies continues with control or mental issues which either a return to AAA or a visit with Smoltz’s old psychologist will be needed to fix. I think either Paronto, Stockman or Boyer when good health returns can fill the long relief role. I feel that over the past 50 years it has been shown that sidearmers tend to be able to adapt to longer innings due to the lessen stress on their arms. I think Moylan’s just showing the tip of the iceberg of what he could do. Do you think they have considered this option.

By rotgut

April 27, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Dave

Whats up man! i just got done with 5 shows in 6 days. widespread 2 nights in raleigh on 4/20 and 4/21 and 3 in athens. Im pretty sure youve said you like Vic CHesnutt. he showed up the 3rd night and was definantly the highlight of the week! the man is f*ckin amazing. panic also played sympathy for the devil in raleigh! smokin! sounds like ive missed a lot of offense but not too much luck for the braves. What the HELL is going on with LF ? Langerhans was hitting .400 in spring trainging and Diaz was hitting them out the park in BP everyday right ??

Anyway, im from athens. i LOVE suzanne. she is one firey lady. i played yout basketball with her daughter and she would show up to some of the games and be the louder than most of the dads at the game. i love it. her daughters a pretty good soccer player too. i know she was starting for clemson a few years ago but i dunno if shes playing at uga right now or not. alexis might have been at the panic show. i saw some of her friends the first night. they looked like they were having a good time! GO BRAVES. GO DAWGS!

Vic Chesnutt

When I ran off and left her, She wasn’t holding a baby.

She was holding a bottle, And a big grudge against me..

By Rory

April 27, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Frenchy is the cleanup hitter anyway. Presuming Chipper is still #3, McCann should be #4, and Frenchy #5. Alot of Frenchy’s shortcomings are forgivable in the #6 hole as opposed to the cleanup hole. In the cleanup spot, he is likely to get as exposed as Andruw often is because they both have alot of the same flaws in their game: not a high enough average, too many whiffs, not enough walks although Andruw gets more walks and gets on base more than Frenchy and has more respect from pitchers than Frenchy does.

For example, I listened to an interview Tom Glavine did with Mike and the Mad Dog at WFAN.com the other day and they were asking him about the leadoff homer he gave up to Kelly Johnson. Glavine said that KJ is one of the few guys on the Braves who is patient and not aggressive early in the count, typically lets you get into a count and tries to work the count.

As for his thought process in facing KJ in the at bat which resulted in the leadoff homer Sunday, Glavine said that he knew KJ had struck out 4 times the day before and that he and Loduca expected that KJ would be more aggressive to avoid getting deep in the counts. He said that he tried to throw low and away on the first pitch but that Glavine did not execute well enough, the pitch went high and away, and KJ smacked it out.

As a comparison between KJ and the rest of the Braves players, Glavine said that of the other braves hitters, “most of their guys you can assume that they are 0-2 as soon as they get to the plate because they are so aggressive”

As for the big Frenchy at bat last week, Glavine said that he was trying to get him to chase some pitches, see if he’ll get himself out. I didn’t execute the way I needed to and he got a piece of it.

No matter how you feel about Glavine at this point and the comments I paraphrased above, it is really interesting to listen to how a great pitcher approaches the game and hitters mentally. The point of all this is that Glavine showed a lot of insight into how other teams perceive our hitters and more specifically batters like Frenchy and Dru. They are both still seen as hitters that good pitchers can attack because of their weaknesses and overzealousness. Until frenchy and druw command the sort of respect from opposing pitchers where the pitchers have to try to get them out instead of letting Frenchy & Druw get themselves out, neither one is any better than a #5 or #6 hitter. As for now, guys like Glavine see Druw and Frenchy just as guys who will get themselves out unless you make a mistake by actually throwing them a strike that they hurt you with.

SO, you can’t cry all the time about being sick and tired of Druw in the cleanup hole and then want Frenchy in the cleanup hole because they both share alot of the same weaknesses. In fact, Frenchy has more than Druw.

For the longest time, Druw was the #5 hitter and became the #4 by default when Sheff & Drew left and when Druw started mashing in 2005. There was good reason for that. The same is true of Frenchy. I don’t think he will be a #4 for several years. He is better suited for the next several years in the #5 or #6 spot.

Just my thoughts as incoherent as they may be

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

KC-

You said all three. I would take the two top pitchers in Hudson and Smoltz over Pedro and Glavine. But not by much…..El Duque over James is such a large gap that it rockets the Mets three over the Braves three. You believe in Chuck James way too much. He is too much of a flyball pitcher.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Bergian:

The Muts fans are creaming all over themselves at Zambrano’s contract being held up pending the possible sale. They already have him penciled in as their number 1 starter next year. But, they’ve shown they are willing to overpay in the past, and will probably do so in future. God help the salary structure if the Muts and Stankees get in a bidding war over him. He’ll end up with an A-Rod like contract.

By KC

April 27, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

I was just checking out some of our young guns at AA and AAA. Here are some numbers…

At AAA Richmond

Willie Harris 58 AB’s: Hitting .362 with a .457 OBP, steals-5/8 , 16 runs

*G.Blanco * 52 AB’s: Hitting .346 with a .443 OBP, steals-3/6

B.McCarthy 41 AB’s: Hitting .341, 2 homers, 5 RBI

Escobar 69 AB’s: Hitting .319, 1 homer, 10 RBI

Prado 58 AB’s: Hitting .276 with a .362 OBP, 0 homers, 8 RBI, steals-3/3

Jonathan Johnson 4 games/3 starts/15.2 inn: 0-0, 5.17 ERA, 8k, WHIP-1.47

T.Hodges 4 games/3 starts/15.1 inn: 1-1, 1.17 ERA, 10k, WHIP-1.30 (the consummate AAAA pitcher?)

Kevin Barry 3 starts/14.1 inn: 1-0, 2.51 ERA, 11k, WHIP-1.05

Manny Acosta 8 games/12.2 inn: 0.71 ERA, 16k, WHIP-1.11, 2 saves

Buddy Hernandez 7 games/12.2 inn: 1.42 ERA, 11k, WHIP-1.11

Will Startup 8 games/10.1 inn: 2.61, 9k, WHIP-1.06

Phil Stockman 3 games/6 inn: 0.00 ERA, 6k, 0.33-WHIP

At AA Miss.

Saltalamacchia 61 AB’s: Hitting .377, 6 homers, 13 RBI, .754 slugging%

B. Jones 75 AB’s: Hitting .333, 2 homers, 12 RBI, steals-4/7 (and he certainly has the right last name if he is to succeed in Atlanta!)

Lillibridge 73 AB’s: Hitting .301 with a .388 OBP, steals-6/7 (though I am sorry to report that he leads the team in strikeouts with 22)

Dan Smith 4 starts/22 inn: 3-1, 1.64 ERA, *23k, WHIP-0.91*

Jo-Jo Reyes 4 starts/21.1 inn: 1-0, 1.69 ERA, 17k, WHIP-1.03

Matt Harrison 4 starts/19.2 inn: 2-0, 3.20 ERA, 16k, WHIP-1.27

J.Devine 9 games/12 inn: 2.25 ERA, 14k, WHIP-1.08

By Canuckbravesfan

April 27, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

DOB—whenever you mention our minor league starting pitching prospects Harrison and Reyes at AA are the first ones mentioned. I suggest you look at the numbers on Dan Smith for 2006 and 2007 as they are much more impressive than the other two. He has a great BB/K ration and also a great WHIP. For anyone else, look up his numbers on BaseballAmerica.com. Looks like another Chuck James sneaking up the ladder without much fanfare !

By Renegator

April 27, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

DOB or anyone else,

Some people earlier in the blog were listing next year’s potential lineup without AJ. It had Renteria batting second. Do you think our huge stock of talented middle infielders at the minor league level will cause JS to look to move Renteria this off-season? I like the guy but it seems we could free up some much needed salary and give some of the young studs a chance to play in the majors. What do you think?

By ncscoots

April 27, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

• think I would take Smoltz at about 13 mil a year for 3 years before I would take Gil Meche at 11 mil a year for 5 years.*

True, but that Meche contract isn’t looking so bad: 35 IP, 2.55 ERA, 7 BB, 24 K. I still think the length of the contract is whacko, but, hey, it looks genius as of today.

BTW, Braves are 2-1 in Davies’ starts. Yes, he needs to be more consistent (what 23-year-old pitcher doesn’t?), but I don’t think I’d have him on quite as short a leash as some bloggers.

He does make me want to go beer-can sometimes, though :-)

By meansonny

April 27, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Rory Good post. I always enjoy listening to the thought process of baseball players (when it’s not coming from the mouth of Tim McCarver).

That being said. Glavine didn’t say anything that 80% of this blog wouldn’t say. His most impressive comments were that he didn’t locate properly.

I agree with the thought process that McCann would make a good #4 for this Braves team. His approach to the at bat makes him one of the more dangerous Braves hitters. I’d put him up there with Chipper as the possibly the best hitter on the team (especially in terms of consistency)

By KC

April 27, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

MBATL: I don’t look at Villarreal as a savior, but I think he’s capable of giving us above average production for a #4 or 5 starter. As I’ve said before, if he could keep an ERA between 4.00-4.50, with this bullpen/offense, we’ll win most of the games he starts.

By P Dub Braves fan

April 27, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Rodger: Hampton’s salary only counts as nine million because for accounting purposes, the Braves average the amount of salary they will pay Hampton over the entire contract and charge that same amount, 9 million, every year for the six years they have Hampton. The Braves are paying him 54 million over the course of his six years with the Braves, with the Rockies and Marlins picking up the rest. So even when the Braves were paying him only a few million per year in the first three years of the contract, he was still on the books as getting 9 million. I hope that made some sense.

By BamaBrave

April 27, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

It will truly be interesting to see how Andruw handles this slump if it continues for much longer. This whole free-agent-year thing must be adding the kind of pressure he can’t handle well. I’m not sure how to interpret some of his interviews on the subject - I didn’t see/hear them first hand - but if he rejects advice and continues to try and pull everything, the management has to begin to doubt the value of investing large future sums. It reminds me a bit of Glavine near the end of his tenure with Atlanta… Any high school pitcher could have suggested that maybe, just maybe, it might be a good idea to bust the hitters inside every now and then. But no. Glavine continued to live on the outside corner, holding on to the fantasy that he still had a really good fastball to keep hitters honest. Now, he does utilize the inside cutter, and it’s rejuvenated his effectiveness. My point is…he was stubborn and rejected a fairly obvious solution when it might have kept him in Atlanta. Will Andruw make the same mistake?

By Randy

April 27, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

P Dub Braves fan, that was for me, not Rodger, but thanks. Made complete sense. I didn’t know the Braves did that. Do they tend to do that for all their long term contracts?

By ncscoots

April 27, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

…makes those poor gymnasts cry at losing.

“There’s no crying in gymnastics!” - Suzanne Yoculan

By KC

April 27, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Efrim: If you can keep the ball of the fat part of the bat, and don’t walk too many hitters… you’re going to be successful. Period.

So far since James’ arrival in Atlanta, he’s been pretty good at doing that. When Chuck James has really gotten into trouble, it seems to me it’s been more about walks, and line-drives (when he misses with his location).

I’m only worried about his flyball tendencies in certain ballparks. Coors is certainly one of them, so I’m worried about his next start. But for the most part… and certainly in a head to head series where he would pitch only at Turner Field or Shay… I don’t think his flyball tendencies mean a damn thing, so long as he’s keeping the ball off the sweet spot.

By Ron

April 27, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Efrim, I think that this would be a better lineup: 2B-Johnson, SS-Renteria, 3B-Chipper Jones, RF-Francouer, C-McCann, 1B-Thorman, LF-Salty, CF-Brandon Jones, or Blanco. I figure Salty probably want play LF, but that would be the better lineup, I like Cameron, but lets save that 10-15 million, and spend that on a Starting Pitcher!!!

By StingerSplash

April 27, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

(trying to spell leadership without the z and the y): L-E-O-T-A-R… No…. L-E-A-D-U-L-A-N… no, that’s not it either. H-A-G-G-A-R-D… Maybe not what we had in mind, but it suits me just fine.

By Ricardo

April 27, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

KC -

Thanks for that info. Seems like a lot of the young guys are getting off to a good start. I’m getting the feeling that salty is due for a monster year.

As much as Hodges is a aaaa pitcher, I get the same feeling on Devine. He doesn’t seem to be getting any attention these days, though the numbers posted are strong.

By Randy

April 27, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Renegator - I love Renteria as well. My hunch right now is that he will play through 2008 with the Braves, but they will not pick up the 2009 team option with all those cheap, young players pushing up. Just a hunch.

By AZBravoFan

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

Imagine if we end up with Cormier and Villareal as #’s 4 and 5 in the rotation in the next month or so? Sure would make that Estrada trade that everyone ridiculed look pretty productive huh? Provided they pitch well of course.

By MBATL

April 27, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

KC, I think Carlyle is another guy who might just come up and do a good job for the Braves, if we really needed a starter. He was mostly lights out in ST. His era isn’t great at Richmond, but 21 K’s, 4 BB in 19 innings suggests something to me.

Above all, I just don’t think the Braves should jump into any trades, or dump any players in order to bring up guys who are hot at AA, this early.

Davies has not been a disaster - 1 really bad start, but otherwise okay. And Redman - well, our best move is to try to work with him until either Cormier comes back or Redman just forces us to release him and make a roster move.

I suspect Redman will pitch okay against average offenses, but will get lit up by lineups like the Mets’ or Marlins’, that pound LH pitching.

We probably will need to make some kind of moves at the deadline, but we don’t know yet what those moves need to be: starting pitching? outfield? first base? Who knows? We blow our wad now and have no flexibility in July.

By georage

April 27, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

The Braves have quality starters in the minors. Why not give Reyes or Harrison a spot start and see what happens? It can’t be worse than a Redman start!

By Ron

April 27, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

I would much rather have Smoltz, Hudson, James in the Postseason than Pedro, Glavine, and Hernandez, although Hernandez is great in the Postseason. Hell Pedro may not be the same when he comes back later on this season!!!

By ncscoots

April 27, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Well, as long as you’re fantasizing on LAA (life after Andruw), I’d more expect Chipper to hit cleanup than anyone else, with maybe Johnson hitting third. But that’s a long way off, with many a blog to be written before.

By JC FROM UT

April 27, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

A few people out there keep writing that Mike Cameron would be a good replacement for AJ. Why not Torii Hunter from the Twins. He plays just as good of defense as AJ, not as much power but alot better average. I know he will cost and I do not know what he makes now but maybe the 13million AJ makes could land Hunter. I also agree that Reggie Sanders should be brought back this year. I wouldn’t give up Davies for him but possibly Langerhans adn Kevin Berry or a pitcher of that caliber.

By Alan

April 27, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Folks, before you go wringing your hands over #4 and #5 starters, take a good look at who the Mets are using in those spots. I’ll bet Pelfrey’s numbers are every bit as bad as Redman’s. Maybe worse. With Smoltz, Hudson and James at 1, 2 and 3, the Braves’ starters are fine. Villareal is not a bad option to consider - he’s shown he can do the job as a spot starter. And the Braves’ bullpen depth makes a very good safety net for guys at the back end of the rotation. I also agree with whoever is touting a guy like Reggie Sanders. He’d be a nice addition. Not for Kyle Davies, though. That would be crazy. Another possibility in LF is yet another ex-Brave, Michael Tucker. He’s with nobody as far as I know. If the Braves were able to pluck Redman from his basement in Oklahoma, surely they can lure Tucker out of retirement. Jeromy Burnitz is somewhere out there, too. Of course, so are Luis Polonia and Mike Devereaux. Oh well, never mind.

By Robert

April 27, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

“(for those who don’t know, Georgia is, basically, to gynmastics what Tennesee is to women’s hoops, and then some. Am I right, those of you who know?”

Very much so

Now DOB - could you picture Coach Y telling her athletes - Hey, once you get to the NCAA’s, it’s a crapshoot

I love the leotard line. I love the woman’s attitude. I think she understanbds the difference between winning a bunch of meets (or games) and being a true champion

Nuff said

By Rodger

April 27, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

scoots, Chipper hates cleanup, remember. He did it with Shef here, but would prefer 3rd & I think he has earned that. McCann may be a good choice for cleanup, but maybe not quite enough pop. Is consistency there worth more than a few big bangs? I think it would be.

By ncscoots

April 27, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Why not give Reyes or Harrison a spot start and see what happens? It can’t be worse than a Redman start!

No, but it would mean putting them on the 40-man and starting their option clock running. Unless you intend to bring ‘em up for good, that’s probably not a good plan.

By Mike S

April 27, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

If Brandon Jones gets called up anytime we will have—- A. Jones B. Jones C. Jones

By Robert

April 27, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

” don’t disagree with the Reggie Sanders hing, but if you trade Davies who will start”

Hudson, Smoltz, and James

Spots four and five you fill in with the flavor of the month, or catch of the day. Or the fan is Section 106 Row 10 Seat 6.

I’m not being facetious. A lot of teams have gone plenty far with two and a half good starters. And it’s not like whoever you put in there is likely to be worse than Davies. Meanwhile, you get a proven bat into the lineup, and relegate Diaz and Langerhans to the roles they deserve, which is 4th outfielder and AA 4th outfielder, respectively.

In other words, the hole in the batting order is so glaring that I make the trade and worry about the back of the rotation later

By Mike in France

April 27, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

DOB - Great lyrics, from Joseph Arthur. I haven’t heard him — I’ll look into his stuff. Good signing on Smoltz — and the stats you give are right on: he pitches well enough to win just about every game; and then he gets even better in the playoffs (I beilieve it was Jim Leyland you quoted as calling Smoltz the best postgame pitcher playing today). The Braves look good — balance and clutch hitting; good pitching. The last 2 starting spots are a question. I find myself thinking what “it might have been like” had they had Smoltz, Hudson, and Hampton all pitching well this year…

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

KC,

Flyball tendencies should always mean something. Why do you think people go nutz about Felix Hernandez man? Strong groundball tendencies. Not just the fact that he misses so many bats. Chuck James is a nice pitcher. At best, a #3 starter. Which is all the Braves really need him to be. But please dude, never underestimate flyball tendencies and how bad they are. You mentioned Coors field??? How about Great American ball park and Citizens Bank as well. Guess he won’t be good there as well.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

SCOOTS: But that’s a long way off, with many a blog to be written before.

Do you perhaps mean many, many, many, many a blog, a rant, a rave, a diatribe?

If anyone in the rest of the country thinks that Braves fans don’t care as is often portrayed by the minions of the Evil Empire up there in Bristol, they don’t think that after reading DOB’s blog. The one thing this blog doesn’t lack is passion, rational, irrational or otherwise. If only we could bottle up the energy in this blog and place it in the Ted every night, our national perception would be much different.

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

And Chuck James control hasn;t exactly been great this year either.

By Coloradobravesfan

April 27, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

DOB… Welcome to Colorado. Gone for a run yet in this thin air? i am bringing the wife and 2 little ones to the afternoon game Sunday, weather should be fantastic.

Why are ther folks on here who think/want Mike Cameron to fill AJs position if he is not signed. Cameron has a lower BA and strikes out more than AJ. Their career OBP is almost the same, and Cameron will probably only hit 20-25 homers a year. We must have got someone in AAA who can put up a .250 BA, .341OBP, and 20 home runs. Spend the money on starting pitching.

By RedEyedAndBlue

April 27, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

I think all of the Red Sox should wear a bloody sock in support of Curt Schilling. OK, my apologies for not following on the topic of any post here on the blog. But seriously. Have we heard enough of this non-story yet ESPN?!

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Come on guys. Now as much as I love McCann, he is NOT a better choice for cleanup than Francoeur is next season. IMO, the cleanup hitter should be an RBI machine who is capable of hitting 40+ homeruns. Now, as good a hitter as McCann is, I don’t ever see him hitting more than 32 or 33 homers in a season; while Francoeur on the other hand I think could easily get to 40. Plus, Francoeur has a knack for getting RBI’s and I think putting him in that #4 spot with Renteria, Chipper and KJ ahead of him and McCann protecting him in the #5 spot; CAN ANYONE SAY 130RBI??

By Mike S

April 27, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

I remember about 6 months ago when the Braves were flirting with a rotation of Smoltz, Glavine, Hudson, Hampton, James. Little different now.

By DCBrave

April 27, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Cameron’s also from LaGrange…might get a slight hometown discount (though that rarely seems to work out for us…see Drew, J.D.)

By kdbanks

April 27, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Regarding UGA gymnastics…

They are a dynasty in any definition of the word. Tons of national championships, top 3 every year.

I worked at a bar in Athens for quite a few years and we made a point of being the “home bar” for the ladies on the gymnastics squad. It worked in our favor. Those girls could sure drink their alcohol (in the off season of course), and they were a ton of fun to hang out with.

By Robert

April 27, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Folks, teams with one and a half great starters have given us fits in the playoffs.

Why couldnt WE be that team to somebody this year?

Hudson and Smoltz SHOULD be enough so that at WORST, we’re tied 2-2 after every 4 games

That’s kinda what the Marlins did to us.And the Padres. And the Diamondbacks. Ands the Astros. And the Astros, again. This when we went deeper in the rotation than the opposition mind you.

My point is that not having Cy Young in the 4 or 5 slot is not whats gonna make the difference for us this year

By TennesseePaul

April 27, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Alright back from lunch. Here’s what I’m lookin’ at Payne:

By ncscoots

April 27, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Mike, correctamundo…guess the Braves were correct to resist the exhortations to “trade some excess starting pitching”, huh? Ha!

By Robert

April 27, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

“Why not Torii Hunter from the Twins.”

Because the Twins are likely to be contenders this year.

By Renegator

April 27, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

Forget Cameron - we need to sign Byrnes to replace AJ.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

I am always thankful that Chipper never decided to become a hack & jack kind of guy even though if Chipper decided to use the Druw & Frenchy approach, he would make them look like a bunch of amateurs at their own style.

Chipper would probably still walk as much - maybe even more because pitchers might be more afraid of his power. He might also walk even more because he would be more selective waiting for his pitch to jack instead of the style Druw and Frenchy take to swing at everything under the sun.

Of course, Chipper would strike out a whole lot more by taking too many pitches looking to rip only the pitches he thought he could rip out and by swinging too hard to rip when he did swing and hit only about .260 like Frenchy & Druw.

The difference would be as opposed to those guys that Chipper would probably hit 10-15 something more home runs every year than they do and still maintain a .400 like OBP every year. He might even already have his 500 homers to get in the HOF.

But then would we see him as any better than Adam Dunn or Jim Thome? Shaun would probably say his OBP would not be much altered and his SLG would probably go up so Chipper would be more valuable as a hack & jack kind of fella but I think Chipper is more valuable by being a more consistent and reliable hitter the way that he is.

No one is arguing today about this so I don’t know why I am thinking out loud about it and publicly arguing with myself about this but I have just been thinking it over about why a guy with a good average, good eye, good power, not many strikeouts is a better, more reliable and consistent performer on a day in and day out basis than a Dunn, Druw, Frenchy who hack and jack their way to homers and RBIs but who just appear to be hot and cold, hit or miss, streaky, inconsistent, and unreliable.

By alan from Atlanta GA.

April 27, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Glad they signed Smoltz, need a bit of good news. Now what about Wilson and Langerhans? How much longer do we have to wait for a base hit? The month of April is almost over and how many hits have they got in total? You could add Diaz and Woodward to the list also. Redman is costing $750,000. for what? to be the Braves losing pitcher? Where is Leo when he is needed?

By Coach

April 27, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

O’Brien , everything you said is dead on. I agree one hundred percent with signing Smoltz , he is more than capable of being an effective pitcher well into his mid-forties. Now , does everyone understand why I never wanted Redman in the rotation ? He does eat innings but when it comes to quality starts and giving the Braves a chance to win , he is a losing proposition more often than not. Hampton is gone , Cormier is looking bleak and Davies had better get it together , fast. The Braves cannot and I repeat , CANNOT compete with just three reliable starters while pitching with a five man rotation. Villarreal should get his chance and if the Braves cannot find a reliable fourth starter by the of May , a four man rotation will be the only solution to this problem until JS can engineer a trade for more pitching which probably wouldn’t happen until late June or early July.

By JC FROM UT

April 27, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Robert I said I would not trade Davies for Sanders. I said send Langerhans and a pitcher such as Kevin Berry.

By Robert

April 27, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

“Respect is in short supply in our society. It’s also in short supply on most blogs as well.”

On the other hand, the unwarranted demand for or sense of entitlement to, respect which hasnt been earned seems to have become a cornerstone of our society.

I too would ove to see some half-baked superstar wanna be stand and gawk at a dinger off of a Bob Gibson (not Bonds)

Heck, I used to love watching guys who tried to crowd the plate against Pedro Martinez

But you cant have that. Because a pitch on the inside part of the plate threatens the batters earnin potential, and then he, like Latrell Sprewell, couldnt feed his family

Shut up and play the game. If the pitcher konks you with a high hard one, take your base and move along

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

“Cameron’s also from LaGrange…might get a slight hometown discount”

Exactly… Plus, if anyone thinks johnny minor-leaguer is going to be brought up next year and will out-hit Mike Cameron they are crazy. Not to mention the fact that Cameron is still way above average defensively… And don’t think I believe Cameron can replace Andruw either offensively or defensively, BUT, to get him for 2 years at a pretty good price when he can still give us great D and a solid bottom-of-the-order hitter then that is all we can really ask for right? We are a mid-market team and we have little (to no) major league ready outfielders at this time (and I don’t want to hear about Blanco or Harris or Jones or some other slightly above average minor-league outfielder). I believe there is only one current Braves minor leaguer who could come up next year and be an instant threat in the lineup, and thats Salty (but thats a whole other argument)… I am just trying to look at this realistically; and Cameron is the most realistic scenario in my opinion (unless maybe we go after Eric Byrnes)…

By T 2 the D

April 27, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Dave, What’s the latest on Tanyon?

By Robert

April 27, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

“But then would we see him as any better than Adam Dunn or Jim Thome?”

Dunn and Thome are not at all similar

By Robert

April 27, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

That lat comment may have been a little harsh.

Dunn is Thome-light-light

By glove51

April 27, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: Samba Room, Denver — Larimer Square downtown, you’ll enjoy it.

By JC FROM UT

April 27, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Robert I was talking about signing Torii Hunter in the off season. He is a free agent. I realize the Twins are not going to trade him but I was thinking when AJ leaves we can turn around and sign Hunter.

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Mike in France: Thing about his lyrics, most of it is autobiographical. Which is kind of frightening, if you hear all his stuff. But so real, and so good. It’s dark, yet somehow uplifting at same time. His voice is great. Not classic by any means, just distinct and great….

Coloradobravesfan, yes, just ran four miles. But I’ve been up here a lot over the years, snowboarding (sister lives up here, has a condo in Frisco, Co.) and making road trips here 13 years with Marlins and Braves, so I know not to start out too fast on a run and get into oxygen debt.

Glad to hear good things about Lady Yoc. Gymdawgs are hereby welcome here anytime.

By Kaye

April 27, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

DOB…I know this topic is Smoltz but I am concerned over leftfield. Why are they not bringing up Brandon Jones? Many people think hes ready. People meaning coaches. Whats the real deal?

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

“Forget Cameron - we need to sign Byrnes to replace AJ.”

He is definately a guy I would LOVE to have, BUT, he is about 5-6 years younger than Mike Cameron so that means we’d have to give him at least a 4 or 5 year deal (with probably more money annually too). I would say Eric Byrnes on the Free Agent market would get at least the same contract Juan Pierre got from the Dodgers last year. Byrnes was a 25HR-25SB guy in 2006 with a better arm and nearly as much range as Pierre. Plus he bats anywhere in the lineup from leadoff to 6th in the order… I would be willing to bet it would take 5 years, $55mil to sign Byrnes… And like I said earlier, I’d much rather have Mike Cameron for 2 years, $16mil and then hope someone emerges out of the minor-leagues…

By Ron

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

DonCoburleone, So you would rather spend 10-15 million on Cameron, or 8 million on Byrnes, than bring up Blanco or Jones, what is up with that? I would rather spend that money on a good Starting Pitcher!!! I have heard alot about how great Blanco’s Defense is. He may not hit alot of homeruns, but so what, Hell Byrnes aint gonna hit 20 for us, and So what if Cameron hits 20 here, we need a guy here like McCann that can drive in runs without the Homerun, and thats what Blanco does. We have enough guys that hits homeruns, look at this year, all homeruns and most of the time no rbi’s without the homerun other than McCann and Frenchy, Enough said!!! Spend money on a Starting Pitcher.

By HazzardCountyHero

April 27, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, good blog;

…but I nominate Ron Roberts as your fill-in guy next time you take a few days off, man. He wrote a lot of what you said about the Redman/who else to pitch situation a coupla days ago on one of your blogs. Just about said the exact same thing as you did about Villareal and his 5 innings or so being better on the bullpen than Redman’s 3, if memory serves. Not usually the kind to give these knuckleheads on your blog credit, but it’s due that cat. When I got to that part of the blog today, I thought wow, I know I’ve read this before and went back to find it. Y’all hire the guy. Then, if Davies keeps sucking once ya yank Redman, screw it - call up a kid; either way, with the ‘pen we got, we’re in every game if we stunt the bleeding early in the game.

By Who Cares?

April 27, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

On a slightly unrelated note, does anyone really care if Curt Schilling’s sock was real or fake blood?

By Jimbo from MS

April 27, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave,

Have you heard anything about the likelihood that Liberty wil sell off the minor-league franchises. I assume the farm teams have been owned and operated by the Braves for a good ‘baseball’ reason. Would Liberty dump them simply to make a buck without affecting the value of the ML team?

By Alan

April 27, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Mike S, when the Braves were courting Glavine, the odd man out would have been Hudson. It’s pretty clear they would have had to trade Hudson in order to afford Glavine. So far, it looks like a pretty good non-trade, doesn’t it? I still say the rotation is OK, even with Redman and Davies. And why are we wasting time talking about the #4 hitter next year? THIS YEAR isn’t even a month old! AJ is it. He’ll heat up - he always does. The all-consuming challenge right now is what to do about the black hole in LF and (to a lesser extent) the grayish hole at 1B. If LF were filled more adequately, we could live with Thorman/Wilson at first, hitting 8th.

By TennesseePaul

April 27, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this

DonC: Come on guys. Now as much as I love McCann, he is NOT a better choice for cleanup than Francoeur is next season.

I agree with you on this point. Though I don’t know that it will end up being a matter of chosing between these 2. The offseason could see a signing of some one or a trade for some one. But if it is a matter of one or the other, I’d say Francoeur is the best bet. McCann is solid. He’s a fabulous hitter, but Francoeur comes up in the close and late like mad. He thrives on that stuff. It’s about the only time he really concentrates it seems. And, Clean up hitters typically aren’t your over all best hitters. Those guys usually hold the 3 hole. That way they get a chance to hit in the first inning no matter what, but hopefully with a runner on. Clean up hitters are more of a power over average type which is Francoeur to a tee.

By tyyosh

April 27, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

Yeah mr baseball, I do see what you mean. I like Bobby Cox and see how he treats players well during the season, but I have always wished he would flip a switch in the postseason and chain his non-performers to the bench, like Joe Torre seems to do. No more marginal starters relieving in extra innings (Liebrandt, Avery ‘96), no more .230 hitting righty lineups (1998, game 6 vs. SD), etc. in the postseason. Of course, JS has to get enough trustworthy pieces, which he now seems more committed to do than before.

By raindawg722

April 27, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this

This would never happen, but with all the arms in the pen (including guys in Richmond) it would be interesting to see if the Braves could give a four-man rotation a shot. Our starters aren’t the type that go eight innings regularly anyway.

Also, what about Dan Smith down in Mississippi instead of Reyes or Harrison? He’s got only four walks in 22 innings against 11 in 21.1 and 8 in 19.2 for Reyes and Harrison respectively. He seems like he has good stuff (22 Ks) and he’s a lefty to boot.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 27, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

joseph arthur…didn’t he tour with the twilight singers recently?

By gotigers72

April 27, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

DOB - Too bad the Braves aren’t playing a home day game tomorrow. Saw where Van Morrison is playing at Chastain tomorrow night. I can’t go for other reasons, but even if I could, the prices are prohibitive. $55-$126. As you like to say, YIKES! Thanks for suggesting “Moondance”. I thought I remembered having a copy of it somewhere, so I dug around and searched and found an old box of cassette tapes, and there it was. Sound quality is still good too considering how long ago I bought it. Put it in my walkman immediately. WOW. I had forgotten how many great songs were on it. “And It Stoned Me”, “Into the Mystic”, and of course, the best song “Moondance”. Not a bad song on it. The kicker is that I hit the jackpot and found some more great tapes, a Bird Parker, a Miles Davis, and Steely Dan’s Greatest Hits. Quite an eclectic collection. Don’t know if it was Walter Becker or somebody else that played guitar on “My Old School” and “Boddisatva”,[could have been more than one person], but whoever it was played some serious kick a** guitar on those songs.

Back to baseball. Great move by JS to sign Smoltz. Players like him don’t come along often, and I’m glad to see he is being handsomely compensated for his loyalty and great ability.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

first inning of a game, KJ or Edgar or Chipper get on, there are two outs when the cleanup hitter comes to the plate. Who would trust in that moment: Druw, Frenchy, or McCann? Frenchy is third on that list. McCann would be first. McCann has a better chance of either extending the inning or scoring the run than Druw or Frenchy. Druw has a better chance of extending the inning or scoring the run himself rather than Frenchy. Frenchy has outstanding RISP numbers but he is less of a guarantee to extend the inning than either Druw or McCann because he is far more likely to make an out than either Druw or Frenchy (at least to this point in his career). Frenchy’s RISP numbers are great but you do have to take them with a certain degree of skepticism as opposed to McCann and Druw when you look at Frenchy’s huge disparity between RISP and no one on, his numbers on the road as opposed to home, his numbers against lefties as opposed to righties and so on. For better or worse, those numbers are bound to start evening out at some point.

BUT I know that the very same people that are going to play up how great Frenchy is with RISP are going to be the same ones that say that John and Bobby should completely ignore Wilson’s outstanding career numbers against lefties and not play him versus lefties. You can’t have it both ways with Frenchy and Wilson. You are either a slave to the stats or you are not.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

All you need is to win 60% of the 70 or so starts of the #1 or #2 which gives you 42 or so wins. If the rest of your pitchers get you .500, you have 88 wins right there. IF your #3 gets you .555 winning percentage in his 33 or so starts, you got 61 wins in 103 games. If the #4 and #5 then go .500, you go 30-29 in the rest of your games and you got yourselves 91 wins. And so on and so on and so on.

The Braves are now on pace to win 100 games. The Braves are 4-1 in Huddie’s start (should be 5-0). The Braves are 4-1 in Smoltz’ starts (maybe should be 5-0 as well because of lack of hitting in that Nats game against that scrub pitcher). The Braves are 2-2 in James starts. The Braves are 1-3 in Redman starts. The Braves are 2-1 in Davies starts.

By Bushwacker

April 27, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Smoltzie has a water bottle and pet “killer dawgs”?

By Lew

April 27, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

Are y’all serious about giving up anyone for Reggie Sanders? Have any of you happened to notice that his numbers have dropped radically-power and speed and playing time-over the last couple of years? It’s to the point that last year he hit .246 with an OBP of .304. Add to this the fact he is making $5mil this year and I can’t see where this makes any sense whatsoever. Not only all of this, but his worst year ever was in Atlanta. Someone mentioned giving up Davies and minor league talent for this? The end result of that transaction would be people griping in three years that whoever we gave up to get him was now still another great player for another team that we gave up for a one year rental. Let’s fill any needs in the outfield from within the sysytem.

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Sitting pretty

Atlanta is sitting pretty on the trade front. The Braves have the best catching prospect in baseball in Jarrod Saltalamacchia, who is having a monster start at Double-A Mississippi.

What it means is that Saltalamacchia soon enough is either going to beat out current Braves catcher Brian McCann, which isn’t likely for obvious reasons, or the Braves will pull a position-switch with McCann or Saltalamacchia.

The other option is to trade one of the, two with Saltalamacchia looming as the more likely bet there.

Three-quarters of the teams in baseball — a conservative estimate — are looking for young catching, the Tigers included.

The Tigers have been trying since at least last year to trade for a legitimate catching prospect. Their problem: everyone else has the same needs, and good young catchers are scarcer than at any time in memory.

Nice article in the Detroit News website… Pretty sweet, makes me druel thinking of the pitching we could get in return for him…. Or do we want to keep him and switch him to 1B or outfield???

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

Saltalamacchia trade scenarios:

“Back to the Tigers - I doubt Justin Verlander or Jeremy Bonderman can be had. Could Nate Robertson plus a good prospect be enough to snag Salty? The 29 year-old southpaw doesn’t reach free agency until after 2009, and he’s been a healthy 32 start guy. Bring him over to the National League, and we could see the Ted Lilly/Bronson Arroyo/Kyle Lohse effect.

The White Sox have A.J. Pierzynski signed through 2008, which gels nicely with Saltalamacchia’s ETA. If Mark Buehrle has another solid month or two, the Braves might covet the lefty and his playoff experience. Plus, an acquisition and possible extension could keep Buehrle away from the NL rival Cardinals. Moving Salty to the Marlins for Dontrelle Willis could work as well.

Really, with a commodity like Saltalamacchia, one could devise many different scenarios where he’s swapped for a frontline starter.”

I don’t really like any of those scenarios, the Dontrelle Willis one is definately good but do we really want Salty haunting us 18 times every year??? Maybe trade Salty to Chicago if we can get back Buehrle and Curtis Granderson? It’s definately exciting to know that we could be in-line for a top-of-the-rotation starter come July…

By DonCoburleone

April 27, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

**Curtis Granderson - meant to say Brian Anderson from the White Sox

By Bob, journalist

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

Lance was re-evaluated today - what’s the word? and, if no word, why not?

When we look at Budget, we see no Andruw in the Braves’ future … Most everybody’s a rental these days … but, we’re not talking Budget, Hertz or even Avis.

Methinks a lot will depend on the objectives of the new ownership, not budget … if they want him in a Braves’ uniform, there’s a good chance that he’ll be back, regardless … if they don’t, he won’t!

By meansonny

April 27, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

rory

2 nice posts earlier. I like what you mentioned regarding mccann at fourth in the order.

To possibly another perspective. An old philosophy is to hit your best all around batter 3rd. We’ve got Chipper there right now. And I don’t think McCanns speed provides an optimal setting for following hitters. So why not put McCann #4? Who says your #4 has to stike out a lot with a good SLG? Why not get the better hitter more at bats?

Anyway, that’s my attempt to beat a dead horse (on one that won’t even be born until next season).

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Good news on Cormier _ MRI showed nothing, no structural damage. He’s just got inflammation in the triceps, going to not throw for a few days, then get back on his rehab schedule. He’ll work out and get treatment for a few days.

No timetable on his return, but obviously it’s about the best news _ much as the Gonzalez MRI was _ that the Braves and he could’ve hoped for.

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Bushwacker, I, too, was kinda thinking about the timing of the Smoltz signing vis-a-vis the recent rash of stories involving a certain other face-of-the-franchise player with a certain other Atlanta team….

Gotigers, I actually like “Into The Mystic” and “And It Stoned Me” better than “Moondance,” as far as singles go. Into The Mystic … wow, what an incredible song. Just spectactularly good.

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Kaye, I was the one who asked Eddie Perez if Brandon Jones could play at this level right now. He said yes.

That said, what do you mean “what’s the real deal” as to why he’s not up here. You say that like it’s some kind of dark secret in his past. Kaye, Brandon Jones has played about 60 games above A-ball, 48 last season at Double-A and whatever he’s played this year. That’s ALL. That’s not a lot.

On top of that, he’s not on the 40-man roster yet. Once you add him to it, you’ll start his options clock the first time you send him down. Teams like to wait as long as they can before adding guys to the protected roster. Brandon Jones is 23. There’s absolutely no rush.

Maybe we see him this year, but I’d not bet on it. Next year more likely.

Braves have guys like T.J. Bohn and Gregor Blanco who are on the 40-man roster already, and wouldn’t have to move anybody off it to bring one of those guys up, if it came to that. But when asked about Langerhans a few days ago, about what he’s going to do with him, Cox said, keep watching him run down balls in the gaps. Something along those lines.

Sorry, I’m just telling you what the thinking is. Sorry if ti’s not what you want to hear.

By Kieran: Long Island Braves Fan

April 27, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

KC-

Good work on the Minor League stats, very much appreciated

By Greg in TN

April 27, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

Good evening fellow denizens…

DOB, great late news on Cormier. I think Villareal could be an option as well, but it’s good to know that we’ll have Cormier as an option as well instead of having to place another pitcher in mothballs until 2008.

I live outside of Knoxville, far enough north to get the FSN feed from Cincinnati on nights when the Braves aren’t playing on that network. They’re in Pittsburgh tonight (beautiful beautiful ballpark if you’re ever in the area and have a chance to take in a game, by the way). The Pirate’s game on Jackie Robinson day was rained out, so tonight, everyone on the team is donning uniform number 42.

Mr. Baseball, you’ve had some well reasoned and very well thought out posts today as far as your concerns with BC. I’ve caught them a few times before and I can respect your position. Even though I am a BC proponent, I realize that there are times when he makes decisions by a gut feeling, or a decision that shows his loyalty to a player and there have been times when that decision has come back to bite him, the team and us. I am willing to look past that at the full body of work in the years he was with the Braves, not only from 1991 until now, but even back with his first stint from 1977 to 1981. He took over a team that finished with the second worst record in the history of the club while it’s been in Atlanta and began the building process. Much of the groundwork that he built in his first stint bore fruit during the Torre led years from ‘82 until ‘84. I and many others remember the years between Torre and Cox’s return in 1991. I believe that Chuck Tanner was the only manager in that timeframe that wasn’t completely overmatched, however Chuck suffered from key injuries (most notably to Horner and Sutter) and flat out lousy pitching from your starting pitching staff. It says a lot to have your two top pitchers end the season with a 4.09 and a 4.98 ERA like Zane Smith and Rick Mahler in 1987. Eddie Haas, Bobby Wine and Russ Nixon were certainly not the answer. Nixon was a lousy manager in Cincinnati, so not sure why Ted and BC hired him (although it could also probably be argued that not many were beating down the doors at the stadium chomping at the bits to be hired at that time either).

So, in taking in everything I’ve seen since rooting for the team in since 1976, I am willing to look past Bobby’s faults when I look at the overall picture. Not everyone is willing to do so, and hey, that’s cool. To each their own.

Sorry for the long post tonight gang, brevity will be the name of the game from here on out this evening from this locale…

By Bob, journalist

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

Good news on Lance … I think.

The last few days, I’ve been enjoying a visit from the flu bug and missed the wasted Hudson effort.

Listening to the replay, it sounded like it would have been prudent to go to the pen after either seven or eight. While outcomes don’t bespeak the wisdom of the decision and hindsight is usually 20-15 … it may not have been an accident waiting to happen but it sounded like he was tiring … why extend him when you have Gonzalez, Soriano and Wickman?

Possible Reason # 1, He was our best chance to win!

Possible Reason # 2, Tim has something to prove to himself and complete game shutouts provide needed proof and are great for his ego!

Possible Reason # 3, With only 2 reliable starters, conserving the bullpen is a top priority!

Possible Reason #4, Mike Gonzalez become a nonfactor!

Possibles, yes … and all may be true … but I don’t like any of them!

By Steve C.

April 27, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

Been a lurker for a long time, enjoy the blog alot, wanted to give you some kudos for one of the best blogs that I have followed, and there are plenty over the last couple of years. Quick question…and I hate that my first post is about something other than baseball, but I wanted to know your thoughts on the Falcons’ draft tomorrow. This being the South, where football is God, I just wanted to get your take. On a different and musical note…also wanted to get your take on Widespread Panic, used to follow them around when I was in college (10 years ago) and still love them today. Thanks in advance for your musings :)

By eric the elder

April 27, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Bob, j, glad you are back and well. I thought you flu the coop.

I (and all of us, I’m sure) am grateful that tonight’s game is in 15 minutes. Otherwise your post might have unleashed another barrage. The last game’s meltdown unleashed 48 hours of the worst vitriol in this blog’s history. It was fun.

By Bob, journalist

April 27, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

They’re still hopeful that he’ll be back soon … they want to get him back in the fold

I’m confused about the They’re still hopeful that he’ll be back soon part … if he has a substance abuse problem so severe that he went into hiding, seeking refuge with one of his brothers … and not meeting with team/MLB officials … he’s damaged goods and it doesn’t logically follow that he would be in a position to be a productive or viable member of any team in the near future; regardless of the reasons for his condition or any empathy held for him.

By caveman22

April 27, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

DOB did you miss me??

I’ve scanned a few of the recent blogs that I missed. If the Braves have to choose between Redman and a younger pitcher wouldn’t if be a better choice to go with the youth and let them gain the experience, they really couldn’t produce any worse the Redman at this point, could they?? As long as the younger pitcher’s have the mental makeup to handle the possible set-back’s and “JOEY DEVINE” moments, those replays still make me cringe.

What do you think, and if you’ve already discussed this , sorry a quick answer is all I’m asking for.

By MBATL

April 27, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

caveman, you answered your own question: Joey Devine.

By eric the elder

April 27, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

The Jones’ 10 for 78 with RISP is horrid enough, but worse is the team’s numbers for advancing a runner from 2nd with no outs. Chipper made zero - - I mean zero - - effort to go to right field.

By MrC

April 27, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Is KJ turning into one of your favorite players or what?

By Greg in TN

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

We’ve had some hits in the first inning and again in the second. Good work by James in his half of the first and a nifty turn at second by KJ.

By eric the elder

April 27, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Something I’ve often wondered. If a shortstop muffs a ground ball, even a little bit, there is a good chance he doesn’t get the runner at first. But if he fields it cleanly, goes to second, and on to first, a double play is probable, even though the ball had to travel farther, and another player had to handle the ball. Someone do the math.

By Ron

April 27, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Great clutch hitting we are!!!

By Tony Almeida

April 27, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

What’s the deal DOB, when Cormier got hurt in spring training i read that he might miss the first week of the season, now he’s almost missed a month, is he just a slow healer or were the Braves just trying to downplay it?

By Ron

April 27, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Wilson might be snapping out of it.

By Greg in TN

April 27, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this

Eric,

You are right. There’s very little room for error on a grounder to short, it doesn’t take much for many batters to reach safely if the ball is fielded in any manner except cleanly. It only takes a second to bobble the ball or be unable to get a handle on the ball in the glove for an out to turn into a baserunner.

By ElbravoX

April 27, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Time to trade A. Jones, before the weekend is over if possible!

By Greg in TN

April 27, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Great job of hitting from Francoeur in the third. Just reached out and flicked the ball into right.

By Fred Secunda

April 27, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, what do you see happening with regards to Renteria’s future in Atlanta? Everything I’ve heard says that Yunel Escobar will be starting at either second or shortstop for someone next year, so I want to know what you think the Braves will do. Do you think they’ll stick with Renteria, trade Escobar, and wait until Andrus is ready, or do you think this is Edgar’s final year in Atlanta?

Also, have you gotten a change to ask Wick about changing his ninth inning music to Johnny Cash?

By MrC

April 27, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

I guess 7 singles in 3 innings don’t score a lot of runs. Guess all those earlier home runs don’t look so bad now, huh?

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Caveman, the thing to keep in mind is this: Davies has options. He can be sent back and forth to Richmond no problem. They could send him down, and bring him back in 15 days. or a month. or whenever.

Redman doesn’t have options. Now, I agree he’s been so bad so far, it might not seem a great loss to lose him. But think about it: They’re not certain about Cormier; hopeful, but not certain. So unless Davies pitches well and Redman continues to stink, would it make sense to keep Davies and lose Redman, then if someone else gets hurt where do you turn? If they were to keep Redman (I know, the thought is painful), at least they have Davies available at Richmond, where presumably he’d have more success on a consistent basis than he has up here. Might help him to go down and be dominant again. Certainly couldn’t hurt his confidence.

Someone asked about Cormier _ hey, the MRI showed no damage. If he says he’s sore, then he obviously thinks he’s too sore to do the job. But all the Braves can do is test him, look at the results, go from there. They didn’t think he’d be out long because he has no structural damage. Don’t know what else I can tell you. I’m not in his brain.

By Ron

April 27, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Looks like we are gonna have to hit homeruns tonight to score runs.

By Robert

April 27, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

“The Braves cannot and I repeat , CANNOT compete with just three reliable starters ” 1991 Twins - Morris, Tapani,Erickson

1997 Florida Marlins - KBrown, AFernandez, and Leiter/Livan Hernandez who combined for one starter’s worth of innings

2001 Diamondbacks - Johnson, Schillling, and manure

2006 Cardinals - Carpener, Suppan, and then nary a starter ERA under 5

These arent teams that COMPETED. These are World Series Champions

And yet porksword here contends that with ONLY three dependable starters, the Braves cant so much as compete.

Of course, he also “knew” Redman wouldnt work out. It would require a second functioning brain cell for him to understand that for 750K, it was good move to take the risk, even if it proves not to be a viable solution - so he aint ever gonna get that angle

Coach - You know as much about baseball as my neighbor’s poodle knows about brain surgery. The poodle at least has the courtesy to walk over to the grass when it takes a dump

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout the wasted opps so far in this game _ Braves have multiple hits in all three inning and two stranded in every inning, and STILL HAVEN’T SCORED.

Seven singles, no runs. Hard to start an inning with three straight singles and not score, but they did in the second.

By Ron

April 27, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

lack of clutch hitting is cotagius, McCann did not come through in the Clutch.

By Robert

April 27, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

“Robert I said I would not trade Davies for Sanders. I said send Langerhans and a pitcher such as Kevin Berry. “

If that trade could be pulled off, oh heck yeah. But any GM that agreed to make that trade with the Braves would be fired by midafternoon, or more likely end up buried under the goalposts in Giant stadium ala Jimmy Hoffa

Langerhans’ estimated open market value at this point is an $8 parking spot and a ticket in the standing room only $1 section

By Ron

April 27, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Play DIAZ EVERYDAY!!!!!!!!!

By Robert

April 27, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

“Robert I was talking about signing Torii Hunter in the off season. He is a free agent. I realize the Twins are not going to trade him but I was thinking when AJ leaves we can turn around and sign Hunter”

Ok, gotcha on that one. I would agree that Hunter would be the better bet to provide more return on the dollar vs Andruw

By MEB

April 27, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

How nice is it to see Matt Diaz and Kelly Johnson combine to finally get us a run?

GO BRAVES!!!

By MrC

April 27, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

KJ and small ball…..gotta love it. He is “quickly” turning into a premiere lead off hitter. Maybe not the speed but certainly the batting eye, works a count, walks a lot, and hits line drives with occassional power. 2nd base defense is adequate and still needs work but I can live with it.

By Tony Almeida

April 27, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

After that diving catch by Diaz in left, all I have to say is……SCREW LANGERHANS!!! PLAY DIAZ!!!

By Fred Secunda

April 27, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

That play by Diaz had to raise Bobby’s eyebrows. I thought he was supposed to be a defensive liability?

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

A$sClown—yes good ol’ Ron Roberts usually says the same things that DOB says…thing is, 99% of the time, it’s after DOB has already said them…

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

That’s actually the second of those great diving catches Diaz has made this season. Really has played pretty well defensively all year, just a couple of gaffes, nothing major.

Good to see James pitching a lot better than his last couple times out. It’s still early, but only three hits through 4-plus innings….

Beautiful night here, temp about 60 degrees, no humidity, and a bigger crowd than I expected. Those cool Rock Pile seats in the section way above CF are full (probably cause they aren’t even selling tix in the right field upper deck)….

Bright Eyes playing here tomorrow night, but night game, won’t be able to make it over for that show. Joseph Arthur Sunday and the mighty Arcade Fire Tuesday in Atlanta, that’s enough of a fix for me.

By mr baseball

April 27, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

The reason the Braves have been so good the last 15+ years is largely the product of their farm system. Given the financial realities of a team with a sub-$100 million payroll next year and 4 players already on the books for about half that total, the farm system may be needed to come through again.

Forget Mike Cameron. Forget Eric Byrnes. Without question forget Willie Harris. Assuming the Braves bring Renteria back (at $6 million why wouldn’t they?), and Thorman hits enough to hold down 1B, the new CF and LF next season (whoever they are) can hit 7th and 8th. Regardless of what they produce, it will certainly be more than the Braves are getting from those 2 spots now.

The same goes for the pitching staff. The bullpen is set, even if Wickman departs next year. The rotation may just need a 5th starter (we can always hope Davies develops into a respectable No. 4), and there are plenty of candidates in AAA & AA.

There is no way Andruw is going to be worth the kind of money he’s going to get from some team with more dolalrs than sense. Let him go. Francouer & McCann will be plenty productive in the 4 & 5 holes.

The question for the individuals responsible for player development is what to do with Saltalamacchia. If the Braves are seriously considering using him as trade bait, he stays at catcher. But if the team sees him in a Braves uniform in ‘08 or ‘09, they have to start thinking about giving him at look at 1B or (preferably) LF.

Since I’ve never seen him play before, I have no idea if Salty is capable of making the switch to left, which is the least important defensive position on the field. If he’s athletic enough, he needs to get a look there sooner than later. Unless, of course, the Braves see him as a vehicle for acquiring a front line starter, assuming there’s one out there who can be had.

For those of you complaining about McCann hitting behind Francouer, all you have to do is watch him run the bases. Even if he is a slightly better hitter than JF, he doesn’t need to be hitting 4th ahead of him. 5th is fine. Lots of RBI opportunities there and fewer chances to ground into DPs with Chipper on 1st base.

DOB: I forgive you for plagiarizing by late night post about Moylan’s recent showing freeing up Villarreal to move into the rotation. Kidding. My high school English teacher used to refer to observations like that with the acronym MOTO (master of the obvious).

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

Stop the presses! Wilson lives!

That homer gave him, uh, two RBIs for the season. Two.

Hey, speaking of ugly _ saw a picture of the boys in that new band Heaven and Hell, with Dio and other Black Sabbath alums. They’re playing here in Denver. Those fellas have lived hard, and you can see every night of it on their faces. Man, those are some rough looking old cats.

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Kelly came in with a .448 leadoff OBP, second in the NL. And tonight he has two hits and a walk in four plate appearances. Pretty good leadoff man, no?

By Bob, journalist

April 27, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

How many “F”s are in FINISHED FILES ARE THE RESULT OF YEARS OF SCIENTIFIC STUDY COMBINED WITH THE EXPERIENCE OF YEARS … ?

Hopefully, the failure to score runs when opportunities present themselves doesn’t cause them to abandon the approach that gave them the opportunities.

By Ron

April 27, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

ANDRUW!!!!!!!!!YEA

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Andruw LIVES!

Hey, someone look up the stats. Seems like the ball carries well here (kidding, folks, kidding)

By David O'Brien

April 27, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

Look at Frenchy reach out and hit that ball the other way… progress if you ask me. But I’ll check with PECOTA just to make sure I’m seeing what I’m seeing.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Matt Diaz is on a tear tonight. But, the boy’s head worries me. Is his head too big for his helmet, or is his helmet too small? It looks as if his helmet will pop off at any moment. As long as the hits keep coming, not a concern. But, if he stops hitting, I think somebody needs to solve this anomaly.

It is so good to hear about Cormier’s MRI. Baseball has become so MRI dependent. Our fortunes rise and fallon the MRI. Mike Hampton’s MRI means he will not pitch and will cost us $14.5 million. Mark Prior’s MRI was negative, but has cost the Cubbies his services for the season and $4 million. All these pitchers who are not being paid to pitch. How much will the Cubs or Braves pay me not to pitch? I’ll be a bargain. I’ll take $500k not to pitch this year. SJA will take $20 not to play centerfield for the Braves. I think I have found the answer to the payroll problem here!

MRI - Is this the equivalent of the military MRE (Meals Ready to Eat)? What the hell is an MRI anyway? “Must Robert Immolate”? “More Runs In”? “Muck Raking Insider”? This is all very confusing. Will the esteemed journalist jimmy smith reappear to answer these questions?

By Ron

April 27, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

DOB, Told you that Wilson might be snapping out of it!!

By Braves fan 202

April 27, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Its good to see everyone is hitting tonight. Chuckie’s not having to good of a game himself

By Ron

April 27, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

MrBaseball, good point, and especially good point about Salty, that is exactly what I have been sayin, Personaly I would rather the Braves move him to LF. A young guy like him that is a switch hitter and got a ton of pop, that is who we need in LF, it is the Least Important Position on the Diamond!! I would rather that happen than us trading him and getting a rental player, that would be the worst thing that we could do!!!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

What’s all this fuss about Reggie Sanders? He stunk his one year with us, and has raked with other teams. Kenny Lofton - he stunk his one year with us, and has raked with other teams. See a pattern here? For whatever reason, Atlanta was a curse on these guys. Both were brought in as “rent-a-players”. Neither worked out. Let’s keep Diaz in left - his bat seems to be coming alive, and keep Langy as defensive replacement, for the time being. No more “Chicken Little” demands for a trade right now to fix things. Patience people, have patience.

Clint Hurdle has a white growth below his lip. What’s up with that? He looks like a billy goat.

And the bleat goes on……

By Ron

April 27, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

OH Hell What is Wrong with James???

By Robert should have his own ajc blog

April 27, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

You should, dude. Your commentary is interesting and entertaining. Eloquent? Many times, yes it is. Your grammar is polished, and you have a firm grasp of contemporary Braves history. God knows, you have stamina rivaling the great DOB. Which is the pinnacle of writing stamina, by the way.

In your favor is you haven’t an axe to grind. You don’t have to rub elbows with those you demean, therefore you can fire at will. And against you is the flip side of that. You don’t rub elbows with the actors (players), therefore you aren’t privy to someone such as the great DOB’s insight. You don’t have to concern yourself with the embarrassment that would occur if you tried to interview Bobby Cox after a particularly vigorous booger-picking episode.

I use the term “great DOB” without sarcasm or hyperbole. DOB is a fantastic, interesting, dedicated writer.

If you had your own blog, I would read it.

By Efrim

April 27, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

Never an off night worrying about this team.

HOW DID CHUCK NOT MAKE IT TO THE 7TH AGAIN??????

By MrC

April 27, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

Chuckie is an “ok” 3 starter. Should win more than he loses. Needs to work more innings like 6 or 7 complete. Depending on a possible injury, quick hook by Bobby tonight. I thought a batter too early.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Have any of you statistical geniuses ever checked the probability of Bobby Cox going to the nose with two fingers just as the TV guys just happen to show him sitting in the dugout??…Damn near spooky!…

By Ron

April 27, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Damn we scored 4 in the top of the 6th and they scored 3 in the Botom of the 6th.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

Hell!…I thought this was Robert’s blog!!!…

By serbok

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

Gonzo for 2 innings then Soriano in the ninth? or crazy yates fo 1 more inning? I say Gonzo for 2 innings~ then ?Soriano? Any takers? I hate it when Bobby has to manage! (cringe)!

By MrC

April 27, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

KJ is amazing!!!!!!

By serbok

April 27, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

How about that KJ! :o)

By The Grinch

April 27, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

DOB, having been a lifelong Sabbath fan, I can tell you Dio was ugly as original sin 25 years ago.

Good to see Wilson get some. KJ’s the dookey. Andruw even connected. Colorado cures many hitting ills. Heck, Langy might even stretch something into a solid single if he gets up. Hope Chucky’s ok; his line doesn’t reflect his game.

Smithwick ale is tasty.

By MrC

April 27, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Gonzo, Soriano, Wickman 1 inning each

By serbok

April 27, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

why do i have the feeling that now we have a 3 run lead it will be Yates?

By PTown Brave

April 27, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

WOW! Kelly and Edgar are just OUTSTANDING! On 4 times EACH tonight…Lets see if we can’t get some more runs…

WAKE UP CHIPPER!

Bring up B-Jones, send down Langy.

Grab another starter, ax the Redman experiment

OUT!

By Rory

April 27, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

Looks like the great Mariano Rivera is done. Or at least done pitching to the Red Sox for the rest of his career. They own that guy. If the Yankees get swept this weekend, who gets fired Monday morning, Torre or Cashman? I say both.

As for the Braves, Kelly Johnson sucks. Prado earned that position in spring training. They just handed it Kelly Johnson. It’s not fair. Freaking Bobby and John just preordained freaking KJ in December well before a pitch was ever thrown. How freaking dare they do that! What were they freaking thinking? We are doomed with KJ at second base. That guy can’t hit. Just thought I would drag out some good ole spring training rants that were on here. This team very well could have 6 MVP candidates. KJ, Edgar, Chipper, and McCann look like the steady ole reliables. Frenchy and Druw are the dynamic ones. Frenchy is looking like he is ready to become one of the steady eddies on this team. Who would have thought in spring training that Andruw Jones in his contract year would be the sixth best hitter on the team? Amazing! Throw Smoltz and Hudson in there and we might have eight MVP candidates.

KELLY JOHNSON IS FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

MRI—Magnetic resonance imaging—the use of nuclear magnetic resonance of protons to produce proton density images…kinda like an x-ray on steroids…

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Can this be the last word on PECOTA? Gawd, this is like last years debate on Sabremetrics. The first time I saw that term I thought Payne was calling all of us out to lay our manhood on the counter and measure our sabers. Stupid me, I guess. None of this stuff matters, people!! Its about pitching a ball, swinging a bat and catching the ball. Pretty simple concept.

(Open camera to Saturday Night Live Weekend Update newsdesk)….

Emily LaTella: Now what’s all this fuss I hear about PEYOTE in baseball? First all this talk about uppers, greenies and reds. Then, steroids, clear and HGH. Now, we find out Braves bloggers are sitting in the desert eating peyote and imagining that they are major league baseball players and managers? This has gone far enough. Who cares what bloggers do in the privacy of their own…

Chevy Chase/Cheddar Cheese: Ms. Latella - the word is PECOTA. That’s PECOTA…. a meaningless software program that uses all sorts of mind numbing numbers and information to spit out worthless unreliable information that stat geeks use to endlessly argue over minutiae. The word is PECOTA, not PEYOTE.

Emily LaTella: Oh, never miiiiiiiiind

By MrC

April 27, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

KJ….down 1-2 and works a walk. Keeps the inning alive for Edgar and Chipper to produce. Can’t emphasize that enought. He just might be the missing link.

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

April 27, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

First off, I’m so psyched that Biff Pocaroba has now had two mentions on this blog thanks to DOB today and myself the other day. Thanks DOB

Secondly, this feels so nice. I know we’ve been winning most series, but am I the only one who feels like for teh most part we’re always losing the first game of the series and then have to rally back and win the next two. As Chipper just hit that two run double, it’s nice to think we can take the first one of this series with the bearded icon going tomorrow. Back in first place in a couple more innings.

By serbok

April 27, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

I have to agree Mr C I’m a bit amazed yates isnt pitching

By Ron

April 27, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Lets keep that platoon a little longer at First, LF give it to Diaz Bobby, he is way better than Langy, Hell Langy may even be able to get a hit tonight, (that was a joke,hahaha).

By serbok

April 27, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

Gonzo needs the work~ and wickerMan needs to overcome the fiasco from the other night~ gotta give the 8th to gonzo? and the 9th to Wickman?

By MrC

April 27, 2007 11:32 PM | Link to this

17 freaking hits tonight…..and only 2 home runs….WOW

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Beavis to Butthead:

Grinch said dooky

(Yeah Grinch, got a blog pass tonight - I’ll pay later, rest assured)

Robert should have his own AJC Blog

Robot Donkey-Donk Butt - you blogging with yourself these days? I’m all for you having your own blog, buddy. That way you can express your myopic views to yourself, and argue with the other bloggers who post - which will be all of one - YOU!!

SJA - good copy and paste from your google search. Now go google yourself - for the sixth time today. Ya dork.

By The Grinch

April 27, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Scalp, that %$#@ is hilarious. Was Larraine Newman not smokin’ hot in a funky kind of slightly bucktooth probably awkward and ugly in High School then came out of nowhere kind of way (I know that’s not the one you envisioned, but same cast)? You know Shaun doesn’t even need to whip his sabre out; he probably carries around a copy/blueprint powerpoint that itemises why his is better than any that may be whipped out.

MrC, Kelly’s not hairy enough to be the missing link.

Sam Adam’s honey porter is tasty.

By serbok

April 27, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Mr C kudos to you:o) looks like you called it perfectly! This is going to be a fun year! you guys think maybe we should lay off langerhans for awhile???????????????? nah!

By MrC

April 27, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

Grinch, he might not be hairy enough to be the missing link. But to be honest with you I haven’t checked.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

Sticks and stones can’t break my bones, but names like dork make me speechless—ironic coming from an old stoner with irreversible loss of brain function as indicated by his persistent flat electroencephalogram…you know, brain dead…but Damn!…Never been called dork before…Hell, let me Google that…hurt my damn feelings too…

By Ron

April 27, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

At least Langy did not strike out, Progress, (the progress part was a joke).

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 27, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

Grinch: Larraine was always the end of the night kind of gal for me. I was more the Farrah Fawcett type, me being such a desirable stud, and all. But understand your attraction to her - you being the nerd type. But you are right - she was in the original cast along with Gilda Radner (one of the funniest women God ever graced the earth with). Guess you got the redhead fetish thing - no other explanation for your Larraine fixation.

Payne’s powerpoint is likely awesome. Wait a minute - POWERPOINT?? Holy shyte, you made a funny!!!!!

BTW - Icehouse is tasty, and cheap - unless you are at the Ted - Six Freaking Dollars and Fifty freaking cents for one bottle! I can do without food at a baseball game, but not beer. Guess I’ll have to stuff my socks next time. Chief Ten Beers is calling me from the great spirit in the sky.

By Rory

April 27, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

why do they ever send langerhans or pete orr up to the plate? why don’t they just simply forfeit the at bats and go straight to the field? it could shave at least ten or so minutes off the game.

By Carroll

April 27, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

DOB: since you mentioned Neil Young the other day, I just had to add that there may not be a better song in the history of man than his “Harvest Moon.” Especially on a chill Friday night after a few stiff totties and a li’l hippie lettuce :D

Oh yea, go braves!

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

Every time Wickman throws a pitch it looks like his a$$ is trying to follow the ball to the plate…

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 27, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Carroll has stiff totties?…can’t quite picture that…

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 28, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Carroll:

On your Harvest Moon post - I agree totally. Less the “hippie lettuce” and add a “hippie chick” who’ll “go dancing in the light”. Neil Young’s use of concordant guitar chords ( I know that sounds weird, but listen to this song and “Cinnamon Girl” to figure out what I am saying) sets him apart musically from amybody else. The guy just has a different view of things, lyrically, and musically, than others. I think Harvest Moon is one the sexiest songs I have ever heard. Its on my “I wanna get laid” CD - LOL.

By the way. It should be noted that this week, in 1970, “Four Dead in Ohio” was released. Another POWERFUL Neil song hits the air.

By serbok

April 28, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

there goes booby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By MrC

April 28, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

All I can say is WOW

By The Grinch

April 28, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

What the flying f&%$ is going on? Taking OUT Wicky to face Helton with the game on the line? This better work.

By Calvin

April 28, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Can someone explain to me why Wickman was in the game in a non save situation and the fact that he had pitched in 3 out of the last 4 days?

By Ron

April 28, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

I know this s** aint happenin again, DOB, tell me this aint happenin???

By serbok

April 28, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

ahhhhhh my bad~ wickman seems to have taken himself out of the game~! I thought it was another fantastic managerial move on bobby’s part~ my bad

By MrC

April 28, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

I think I’ll just get DRUNK….I cannot believe this. It better not happen again

By Ron

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

Some Bullpen we got!!! huh?

By serbok

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

Question? Did Bobby bring Bobby in knowing that Bobby wasnt quite %100? or did Bobby not tell Bobby that he was not 100%? or if Bobby knew Bobby was not 100% why did Bobby not let Gonzo pitch the 7th and 8th then let Soriano nail the save? hm

By some guy

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

I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS!!!!

By ElbravoX

April 28, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

DEJAFREAKINVU

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 28, 2007 12:15 AM | Link to this

Key to this inning was the DP that was not turned by Edgar

By Sir Stealth

April 28, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

I think I just had a heart attack.

By MrC

April 28, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

Whew!!!!!!

By some guy

April 28, 2007 12:16 AM | Link to this

THANK YOU FRENCHY!!!!!!!!!!!

By Ron

April 28, 2007 12:17 AM | Link to this

Frenchy saved the Braves asses on that GREAT catch, WOW!!!

By MrC

April 28, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

DOB…we need some background on the deal with Wickman tonight. Was he hurt, or just didn’t have stuff, or tired, or upset about being yanked or what?

By victor

April 28, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

Thanks Frenchy!!! what a catch!!!

By Efrim

April 28, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

Wickman is something else……

By cox got it right

April 28, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this

THIS TIME! HOLLA!

By Carroll

April 28, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

Scalp: Classic…LOL! By the way, I’ll bet Harvest Moon was the product of a bunch of hippie lettuce. Regardless, It is truly a masterpiece of American music.

By Correction

April 28, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

FRENCHY BABY!

By serbok

April 28, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

IMO Neil young is the greatest poet walking the face of the earth today~ next to Roger Waters:o)

By Ron

April 28, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

What the HELL just happened in the 9th, can somebody tell me, because our best bullpen in the ML, at least thats what everyone has told me almost blew another game?

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 28, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Don’t blame Coxy for not knowing how to handle a bullpen—he’s hardly ever had one…

By Ron

April 28, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this

Wickman must have been hurt, because if he was not hurt I still would not have taken Wickman out of the game, Where the Hell was Villerial, where was he, If he aint gonna come in the bullpen, then start his a*!!!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 28, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

SJA:

Glad I found a way to pierce your supposed armor. You have ignored, foisted, pareed’, and otherwise repelled every insult thrown your way for months. You have been impregnable (hope you don’t have the ability to impregnate - the world don’t need your progeny running around - Oh, wait a minute - that would involve a woman willing to, you know, with you - ain’t ever gonna happen, so will move on). And you are brought down by the mere word “dork”. Reminds me of the classic novel “War of the Worlds”, when the Martians were brought down by a simple thing called bacteria. Whouda thunk it?

Grinch: Bobby had a plan all along. It’s called building up, breaking down, and bending, not breaking. It worked tonight with a 4 run lead.

That’s all I got to say about that. Nightall.

By parks

April 28, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

who is in first? wow

bunch of freakin crybabys on this blog

By The Grinch

April 28, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

Cool. I was worried Moylan might catch one in the teef. :-) Nice, MrC; got me by the short hairs on that one (pun intended).

Scalp, I’m afraid my tastes aren’t entirely normal. I do have a major redhead fetish among other things I shall not discuss on this blog. You’re right; Gilda was beyond funny (loved roseanne rosanadanna)…but Larraine had that nasty high-boot skinny pale I’ll do anything you ask me to kind of vibe I truly appreciate.

Red Stripe is tasy.

By Sir Stealth

April 28, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

I’ve got every album Neil Young has ever put out and a show from just about every tour. He’s the best.

Thank God we did not blow that game tonight. We mighta had to send the whole squad down to the minors to work out the lasting mental issues like Joey Devine. Of course, given the tendency of some folks to get more excited about minor leaguers they’ve never seen before than our actual players, that might not have been as unpopular as one might think. In other news, our offense looked pretty good…

By Ron

April 28, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

Not trying to second guess but why not pitch Villerial in the 7th and 8th goes to Gonzalez, and then 9th Moylan. I can understand why Bobby pitched Wickman, maybe to get his head straight after what happened the other night. Remember I am not second guessing BC.

By MrC

April 28, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

How bout them GymDogs!!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

April 28, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this

Beavis to Butthead:

SouthernJackAss said Cocksy - we know what’s on his mind. huh huh huh huh huh

For real - last post tonight - hold the applause down, folks.

And the bleat goes on…….

By KC

April 28, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

Grinch: I’m glad I don’t have red hair.

By TennesseePaul

April 28, 2007 12:48 AM | Link to this

Great game tonight. I would have loved it had Yates not let James guys get in but, I’ll take the W.

Check This Out

A former employee of the New York Mets has pleaded guilty to distributing performance-enhancing drugs to dozens of major league players between 1995 and 2005

So what do the Mets say?

We were surprised and disappointed to learn of the guilty plea today.
The conduct in question is diametrically opposed to the values and standards of the Mets organization and our owners.

I guess Mota didn’t read that disclaimer from the club house dealer.

By t-towndawg

April 28, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Where ya at No Chop? We’re back in 1st.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 28, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

NO!—TheSouthernJackAss said Coxy—Scalp ‘Em said…’Cocksy’…

dork…Oh, the Inhumanity!…

TheSouthernJackAss is bored—maybe I need a pet…maybe one of those Japanese poodles…

By KC

April 28, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

How bout’ Kelly Johnson?! Another 2 hits, 2 walks, and an RBI tonight. His average is now up to .320. Nice.

By KC

April 28, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Oh yeah, and let us not forget… Matt Diaz is starting to swing a hot bat, and it was very nice to see Craig Wilson have a 3 hit night. If we’re getting production out of Diaz and 1B, we’re going to score a helluva lot of runs.

By KC

April 28, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

TennPaul: Yeah… that really sucks for James. I thought he pitched a hell of a game, yet the box score reads 4 earned. Sucks for him. Oh well, as you said, still got the W. And at least James got the win, even if his ERA did take some undeserved punishment.

By KC

April 28, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this

BREAKING NEWS!

Apparently, there are 28 MLB teams other than the Yankees and Red Sox. No one tell ESPN… could affect their stock value.

By TennesseePaul

April 28, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

Now that I re-read that statement… Does the conduct in question refer to the guilty plea that they were surprised and disappointed to learn about?

Very ambiguous.

Wilson broke out tonight. That’s goo to see. I’d still rather have Thor in there every day. I’d like to know if he can handle the job. KJ certainly can. He’s playing incredible defense. Diaz looked out of place in the outfield tonight. He had that one highlight play and then some awkward routes to the ball the rest of the time. But he got some hits so it’s all good.

What is the deal with Wicky? Was he saying he just didn’t have it tonight?

By The Grinch

April 28, 2007 1:05 AM | Link to this

KC, a little birdie tells me you have nothing to worry about, even if you were a redhead.

Gotta love my GymDawgs, even if they are 20-year-olds who look like 10-year-olds who’ve been trained to the point they can no longer menstruate. THEY BEAT FLORIDA. AGAIN. WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF

By F A Skippy

April 28, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

I was seriously concerned for Wickman’s health tonight.I mean he was gasping for thin air wasn’t he ? As for the Smoltz deal,no brainer he’s a brave for life,and he can pitch some I’m told.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 28, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson, I hereby take back all the expletives I tossed at you in 2005 and throughout the first week of this season. You are the man.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

KC-Yeah, Diaz sure has that stroke two inches to the left of shortstop going great, doesn’t he? Got to admit that was a nice catch he made-probably because he didn’t have a chance to run in circles first or crash into a wall, unnecessarily.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Any time Georgia beats Florida in ANYTHING is a good day. Go Dawgs!

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

We battled back tonight and after another night of ninth inning drama.

Really encouraged by the bats tonight. We hit the ball well pretty consistently throughout the lineup. That was nice to see.

James pitched fine early but struggled at the end. Hope Wickman is okay. It seemed as if he was a little tight tonight and hopefully there’s nothing more to it than that physically speaking.

Nice to be in first place too.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 1:29 AM | Link to this

Wickman _ yikes.

K.J. _ .320 average, .457 OBP., 1.030 OPS. I think maybe the Braves made the right decision on 2B this spring.

Edgar _ batting .340 with a .410 OBP.

Francoeur _ what a freakin’ catch. Saved the Braves’ (and Wickman’s) bacon.

By Sir Stealth

April 28, 2007 1:33 AM | Link to this

Just want to make sure that typing this out doesn’t make the universe explode…

Kelly Johnson is currently sixth in the National Leauge in OPS (1.031).

Now, I’m a big time Braves optimist, but never in my wildest dreams did I imagine him looking this good at this point, still only April or not.

By KC

April 28, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

Lew: Diaz had that homer the other day, and has been hitting the ball on the nose… something he didn’t do when he was slumping.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 1:37 AM | Link to this

Grinch, that’s some funny stuff. Good to hear Yoc’s girls rocked the house. Maybe someone needs to e-mail her, tell her she’s got a new fan club here (at least one. How many are with me? Gymdawgs, baby)

Anyway, hey, this game tonight took us back a few years to the old Coors games. Well, except for fact that Braves’ first 10 hits were singles.

They had eight more two-out RBIs tonight. Unbelievable. They lead the majors by a wide margin with 63 two-out RBIs. Also led majors with 29 homers before tonight, so I’m assuming they still lead with 31.

Now if they can just get something out of the back end of their rotation and get the key bullpen guys clicking at the same time.

By KC

April 28, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

Sir Stealth: Nor did I. I think it’s safe to say that KJ has exceeded all expectations both at the plate and in the field.

Great average and OBP, and 5 homers… a 1/2 (literally) away from being 6, if you remember that on that bounced off the top of the center field wall.

It looks like he’s going to hit for average, for power, and work his way on base with the best of them.

By KC

April 28, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

Grinch: Whew! Good to know.

Gotta get some shut-eye. G’night ya’ll.

By P Dub Braves fan

April 28, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

Randy:

To my knowledge, the Braves do average all of the longterm contracts just like they’ve done with Hampton. Renteria is in the same kind of situation as Hampton, with the Red Sox paying a chunk of his salary. I think he has a 6 million number every year. Most of the long term deals escalate in salary a little bit every year, so it would make sense if the Braves averaged them all just like they’ve done with Hampton and Renteria.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this

Carroll & Scalp ‘em: That new Neil live at Massey Hall, remastered show from 70s, is great stuff, when he was doing acoustic gig and introduced the Harvest stuff. Crowd hadn’t heard any of it until he introduced it. Told the story about how ‘Old Man’ was about the old man living on the farm he bought (he had just bought the farm he still lives on in Cali).

Old Man, Heart of Gold, A Man Needs a Maid … still might be my favorite Neil record, though he’s had so many great ones. Was listening to Live Rust the other day … all his live stuff is tremendous.

OK, gotta pack and get outta this ballpark. Yoc rules.

By Jared

April 28, 2007 1:51 AM | Link to this

Some of you seem drunk. Davies for Reggie fricking Sanders? Davies is young, you don’t just dump him for some old has-been. Whoever suggested that (probably Mr. “the Braves will GET Rocco Baldelli, just watch” Robert, who really seems to be clueless on just about everything.)

Brandon Jones? Yes. Willie Harris or T.J. Bohn? Please. I’d rather just stick with Langerhans.

By The Grinch

April 28, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this

Gotta give credit where credit be due. We usually beat ‘em in equestrian stuff, too. I think that’s some form of debating. Our little Dawglets strapped on the leotards tonight for sho, though. Now if Richt can keep our football players out of the hoosegow we’ll be ok. KC, rest easy. You’ll be the very, very last one I’ll be eyein’ down at the Ted. The second half of this Smithwick’s will put me into snooze-land. Gotta rest up for the NFL draft tommorrow. Go Falcons! DO NOT DRAFT UP TO GET THAT PLAYER FROM AN INFERIOR IN-STATE RIVALRY SCHOOL. Good job tonight, Bravos. G’night, all.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 28, 2007 2:12 AM | Link to this

“tonight’s the night” is my favorite neil album, with “harvest” being a very, very close second

By Wayne in UT

April 28, 2007 2:16 AM | Link to this

Well, here I am blogging to myself again! What a finish! Thank God for XM radio. (DOB, your in my time zone tonight, huh!)

KJ is the real deal, Frenchy is just SOOO impressive with his newfound approach. Next years clean up hitter for sure. (McCann playing only 85-90% of the games leaves too much of a gap, unless in a couple of years we do my “Catching/1B tandem with Salty”)

The bullpen will be OK, and while I missed Chuckey’s bad inning, a good start otherwise.

A real question for those of you who will go back and read this??? Would BC be better off reserving one of the big 3 (Soriano-Gonzo-Wicky) each night. Work guys like Coyler/Yates into the seventh inning mix??? That way, if the 9th inning guys goes to $h!t then you have a powerhouse in reserve. Just a thought.

Way to go homeboy for re-upping Smoltz!! Made my day!

Sleep well folks……

By Wayne in UT

April 28, 2007 2:19 AM | Link to this

Whassup with Michael Vick??? Looks like the man is trying to self-destruct….

Jared Agreed. BJones or nothing. Blanco maybe as a back-up if needed later in the season.

BTW, Prado has come back down to the earth, and his normal “batting” neighborhood. And yes, Harris is just a pinch runner. He won’t stay up long.

By geauxbraves2000

April 28, 2007 3:02 AM | Link to this

The positives, KJ keeps on keeping on, ER had a great night at the plate, a bomb by AJ, nice catch by Francouer, and the Braves won. Nice offensive game by Wilson also, 3-5 with a HR and 2 runs scoreed. And for his reward he will likely get to ride the pine tonight.

Nite all, great win, 1st place for the rest of the season.

Oh BTW, has anyone noticed, since April 18th, the Braves have won/lost every other game. Which I guess means the good news is they haven’t lost two in a row in quite a while.

Geaux Braves!!

By serbok

April 28, 2007 3:15 AM | Link to this

I found neil’s best to be prarrie wind~ he was told by doctors that he had a brain anuerysm and had approx. 6 mos or so to live~ then he went out and wrote “Prarrie Wind” for those who havent heard it~ its in the same vein as Harvest~ with a retrospective jounrey thru his mind~ absolutely beautiful music~especially considering the life time line he was given~~ I found the song~ This Old guitar~ to be especially poignant~ he sang it playing Hank SR’s old acoustic~ truely magic!

By serbok

April 28, 2007 3:26 AM | Link to this

the time line on that was approx. 18-24 months ago~ he has since been given a clean bill of health~ I’m not sure what happened to the anuerysm~ but he is now expected to live an average time line~ whatever that means~

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 3:28 AM | Link to this

Serbok, Prairie Wind is beautiful music. And the movie (“Heart of Gold”) of the performance at the Rhyman … priceless. A must-own for Neil fans. The DVD’s got a bunch of extra stuff, too. I love “It’s a Dream” off that album. Too good, man….

Just walked through lobby of the Marriott here in Denver. So strange to hear a Social Distortion song (“Ball and Chain”) playing at low level in the empty lobby, like some kind of punk Muzak.

By jed

April 28, 2007 3:58 AM | Link to this

rotgut dropping the vic chesnutt! hayull yeah!

By serbok

April 28, 2007 4:11 AM | Link to this

Thanx DOB~ havent seen the dvd~ however ~ I couldnt agree more~ “Its a Dream” seems to put life into perspective~ very cool~ thanx for your thoughts:o)

By serbok

April 28, 2007 4:14 AM | Link to this

DOB~ just a quick ? I do tech support for the most powerful personal computers in the world~ Tell me~ you do own an apple~correct?

By ncscoots

April 28, 2007 7:17 AM | Link to this

random thoughts on the overnights…don’t know if a couple of seeing-eye singles means Diaz is “hitting the ball on the nose”, but let’s hope. Some of those swings he takes, hoo boy…Social Distortion in a hotel lobby?!? That might be another sign the apocalypse is near :-)…Chuck is pitching more like a 5 starter than a 3…did Yates seem to be throwing mostly sliders and splitters last night instead of heaters? Odd, considering the Denver effect on breaking balls…KJ, can I get a yikes, brothers and sisters? Beyond his offense (8 million prescient bloggers report “I always knew he could hit”, despite the fact that he was coming off surgery, learning a new position, etc.), his defense has been sterling. He’s made some excellent turns (and one slip-out-my-hand throw), and shown fair-to-good range. Hubbard has made a pact with Satan, it’s pretty obvious…leotard-strapping has replaced slab-toeing as my newest favorite phrase. Yoc’s rock, go Gymdawgs!

By Robert

April 28, 2007 7:22 AM | Link to this

“For whatever reason, Atlanta was a curse on these guys”

And of course nothing or noone would suggest itself as the probable explanation of this phenomenom.

Thick as a brick my “friend”

By Greg

April 28, 2007 7:40 AM | Link to this

DOB:

Why is it a surprise that Wickman got whacked around in Denver? When you soft toss like he does, Denver is hell. Remember how much Maddux hated the place. Throwing strikes is not enough in Denver. You either have to throw wicked fastballs that sink or keep everything down. Wickman usually gets hit; he just usually gets three outs before the other team does any damage. You can’t play like that in Denver. You get hit there, you get damaged. That’s the way things work in the thin air. As for the Marlins game, he inherited three runners. Soriano or Gonzales would have been a better choice in that situation. The team needed strikeouts. Wickman will be fine in the long run.

By Scott

April 28, 2007 8:00 AM | Link to this

If we need starting pitching, I just saw Anthony Lerew pitch last night against Norfolk and he looked great.

By Tom

April 28, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

Time for the rest of the NL to take note of what an incredible start Kelly Johnson is having, DOB.

• Every start he’s made this year he’s been on base.

• He’s been on base 2 times or more in 13 games.

• Since his day off on 4/16, check this out:

  • He’s been on base 3 or more times in 7 of the 9 games.
  • He’s hitting .514 since that day off. (18/35)
  • He has a .622 OBP (28/45).

He doesn’t qualify for Rookie of the Year (pretty sure) but how ‘bout in the running for Comeback Player of the Year?

He’s my pick for Braves player of the month. (no offense, Huddie)

By Tomahawkin' Again

April 28, 2007 9:05 AM | Link to this

It’s a beautiful day here in Orlando, sunny w/temps in the 70’s right now and the Braves in 1st place (F@#% you Mets Fans, ESPN and the rest of the East Coast-biased media hype machine). But, Wick, please stop those 9th innings like last night! Geez, I was having June 2006 flashbacks. Put Oscar in the rotation, keep praying that Liberty Media gives Schuerholz the ammo to pull off trades in the summer to fill in the few holes & Braves fans, log onto atlantabraves.com and vote KJ onto the NL all-star team…BEST LEADOFF HITTER IN THE NL! (Just like all of us so-called experts predicted back in March…ha ha)

By chipdip

April 28, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

on the beach and tonight’s the night….some of neils best!!!

By JasonInMaine

April 28, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

I have to reiterate: man, was I wrong on KJ. At this point, I rather have KJ up in a critical situation than anyone! He has such a great eye that he should continue to get on base even if he ever slumps. And the defense…wow, been a lot better than I could have imagined. I am starting to believe the scouts that said if Hubbard could make Giles as good as he did; he will be able to make KJ into a gold glover! Wow, I guess Bobby and JS know a little something…

Now, about the LF platoon (:

Regards,

Jason

By Bravesfanin MetsLand

April 28, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this

Hahahah I had my IPOD on shuffle yesterday and Ball and Chain came on. I haven’t heard that song since my band in high school played it.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

And to think when we heard that KJ was down and out last year, most of us greeted that news with a yawn. Shame on us ignorant fans.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 28, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Good morning folks, Boy, this year’s Braves will keep you in your seats until the last out won’t they?

Some random observations from an old basrball guy.

Brian McCann is a great hitter and terrific boost to the line up.

Brian McCann is not a great defensive catcher and appears on a par with Javy Lopez in that department.

If I were the Braves I would DH Brian a lot during interleauge play to get maximum ABs.

I would also turn him into a first baseman or left fielder as soon as possible so he could play everyday.

All and his offense is going to be needed especially after Andruw is gone next year.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

“If you had your own blog, I would read it.”

I dont think I would

“Was Larraine Newman not smokin’ hot in a funky kind of slightly bucktooth probably awkward and ugly in High School then came out of nowhere kind of way?”

No

“Have any of you statistical geniuses ever checked the probability of Bobby Cox going to the nose with two fingers just as the TV guys just happen to show him sitting in the dugout?”

Best was when Maddux was still here and they’d pick in unison.

” Robert should have his own AJC Blog

Robot Donkey-Donk Butt - you blogging with yourself these days? I’m all for you having your own blog, buddy. That way you can express your myopic views to yourself, and argue with the other bloggers who post - which will be all of one - YOU”

Um, I didnt write that. Scalp I think you and Coach should get together and start y’alls own website

www.combinediqof7.com

By Jeff R

April 28, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Redman’s signed, so give him a couple of more shots, but what did he do the last two seasons in Pittsburgh and KC? His ERA floated around six. Hope I’m wrong, but even if this guy gets a handle, I doubt we’ll see his ERA in the fours (that’s Cy Young territory these days). As to winning ten or eleven games last season, fair enough, but what did he do in his other starts? And the games he won, did he pitch well, or did the opposition run up the score and KC have to put up a lot of runs?

I think Redman is a “Dead Man Walking,” but I was wrong about Kelly Johnson’s ability to field his position, so, again, I hope I’m wrong about Redman.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this

Scott, that’s the thing with Lerew, at least to this point: He can absolutely look like a young ace one night, blowing the doors off batters. Then the next night he can walk five or six. Just hasn’t been consistent and been pretty bad in Triple-A and the majors in his opportunities thus far. But he’s definitely on the radar as a possibility. With that arm, he has to be….

Tom, I like your thinking on Kelly J. for Comeback Player of Year. If anything were to prevent it, it’d be the fact that so many voters, at least right now, have so little memory of him playing two years ago. In other words, plenty forget he actually played nearly a full season in the majors before missing last season. But believe me, if he keeps hitting anywhere near the way he is now, more people will learn his story before long….

Serbok, yes, I have a PowerBook G4….

Greg, agreed on Wick being alright in long run. He’s had a couple episodes like this in past three years, where he had a couple of bad games. Then flicked a switch and was lights-out again. I wouldn’t say he “soft tosses,” however. Wouldn’t say that at all. But I get your point.

As Moylan pointed out after his one-pitch safe on a flyball to the wall, when I asked him his thoughts as that ball was sailing: “I was thinking, ‘My ball doesn’t sink as much here.”

By JasonInMaine

April 28, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Wick is the least of my concerns. He has been lights out since he got here, and every closer goes through a rough patch or two, especially at Coors.

I am more concerned about:

1. The back-end of the rotation
2. LF
3. 1B

Regards,

Jason

By Lew

April 28, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this

DOB-To this point in the AAA season, Trey Hodges has looked good, yet there is little or no mention of him as an option. Any feedback?

By Lew

April 28, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

Never mind. I just checked again. Hodges only has given up 10 hits in 15 IP, but walked 10 also. He’s got a good ERA at 1.17, but that’s playing with fire.

By VaBravesfan

April 28, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

I just read on CBSSportsline that Ryan Langerdoody was ranked #53 of 60 left fielders. How in the world could anybody be worse than him at this point? How bad are those other seven? I was always hoping he would pan out, but it does not look like he is.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

As bad as 1B has looked thus far, wilson & thorman combined are still on pace for 22 home runs, 66 RBIs, 81 runs scored, 29 doubles, 58 walks, 184 strikeouts. Alot of that is coming from Thorman but I think Wilson will come along (he showed signs last night). Those pace numbers are not great but considering how poorly they have looked thus far, they will only get better. Besides, let’s get real about it. They are #7 or #8 hitters on this team, you can’t be expected a star in every lineup position like we have with the first six hitters.

3 RBIs and 7 runs scored in left field, however, are just killing us.

Thank the Lord our top 6 hitters have been so outstanding thus far. Our top six hitters thus far combined in 495 at bats, are .305, .401, .538 in 498 at bats, with 90 runs scored, 37 doubles, 25 home runs, 95 RBIs, 77 walks, 98 strikeouts. Pretty darn good.

By Chris

April 28, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Hodges just doesn’t have major league stuff. But neither does Redman.

At least with Davies, you will see hitters swinging and missing. That is, when his control is better than that of a J.V. high school pitcher.

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 28, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

I can’t remember who on here said last season but someone said a friend of theirs was a Cleveland Indian fan and that Wickman had meltdowns like this occassionally but way more often than not he is going to get the job done. He will be fine. He has just had a bad spell.

If this team can get some pitching from the back of the rotation, they will be the most dangerous team in the NL. Kelly Johnson has done a terrific job at 2B both defensively and offensively. He is the type of hitter that drives pitchers crazy because he makes them throw strikes but he makes them pay when they do. It does no good to throw a pitch “just” off the plate because Johnson has the discipline to not go after it. This kid could be a star in the making. Don’t forget that Cox and JS both said in ‘05 when Johnson struggled mightily that they would be patient because he could hit and would be a great hitter in the majors.

I’m starting to become a believer in Frenchy. I always knew he would be a star. I just feared it would take some time because of his aggressiveness. But, this kid has learned to be a superstar you have to be a complete player. He said last year and this spring that he could be a .300 hitter and so far he has proven his claim as right. He understands now that its the pitchers job to throw strikes and he does himself no favors by swinging at bad balls. I think it was Tony Gwynn who said something like you have to make a pitcher throw at least 4 pitches in an at-bat because one of them is likely going to be a mistake.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

I don’t think the game the other night was on Wickman. Coming in to a bases loaded jam is a pretty tough spot to come into. It would have been great if he got a double play and a strikeout to close it out but he didn’t and there was little margin for error in that situation.

Last night was ugly but he also came in with a five run lead which is hard for whatever reason for alot of closers to deal with. We’ve seen Soriano look bad in those same spots this year.

I’m not too concerned about Wickman although he scared the bejesus out of me last night.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Not to beat the proverbial deceased equine, but I still think Langerhans will be all right (eventually). Diaz had a couple of hits last night (seeing eye singles that were within 2 inches of being ground outs to short), but Langerhans got better wood on his fly to right. At least he made decent contact for the first time in the past week or so. He’ll be in there today and tomorrow. Maybe he’ll get hot. Stranger things have happened. It is Denver, after all. I can guarantee that he will not run in circles trying to catch fly balls, nor will he bang into the wall on a routine fly. The only reason Diaz made that play last night was because it was right in front of him. A few inches to either side and the guy would have had a triple.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Hey, could be a lot worse than Wickman’s last two, just ask the Padres: Trevor Hoffman blew his second consecutive save opp last night for the first time in a decade _ and did it on Trevor Hoffman appreciation night in San Diego, against the rival Dodgers!

They gave out “Trevor Time” desk clocks to fans. Those fans like Hoffman (and presumably the clocks) too much to throw them on the field in disgust as he gave up four runs in the ninth for a 6-5 Dodgers win.

By Mike in Brooklyn

April 28, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

DOB, this is the first time I’ve posted here. LOVE the blog.

I have a questions about a dude who has seemed to come out of nowhere in AA. Do you know anything about Dan Smith? Looking at his minor league stats, it seems like he had some injury problems in ‘04, and was just converted to a starter full time last year. But here’s some interesting numbers:

In his minor league career coming into this season, he has a career 2.57 ERA, a 11.36 K/BB ratio, 6.6 H/IP, and .46 HR/9. Last year between Myrtle Beach and Mississippi, he struck out 99 in only 68.1 innings. And so far in AA this year, he has a 1.64 ERA, with 22 Ks in 23 innings and only 4 walks.

Who is this guy and why isn’t he on any Braves prospect lists? Is he one of those pitchers who throws 84 and isn’t projected to be productive in the majors? Given his experience (only 80 inning at AA), he’s not on the radar for the majors right now, but I don’t see another pitcher in the Braves system who has the same indicators he does.

Do you know anything about him?

Thanks!

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 28, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Lew I sometimes think when it comes to the left field position you have the same mindset as Robert on Bobby Cox.

In your eyes Diaz can do no right and Langerhans can do no wrong.

I agree, Diaz does not play as well as Langerhans in the outfield but right now he is hitting better. Get over it.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

It’s the coaches fault that the offense stinks. It’s the wideout’s fault that they can’t catch my errant passes. It’s the airport police’s fault that they caught me with weed in my water bottle. It’s the jewelry’s fault that weed ended up in my water bottle. It’s the airline’s fault I missed my flight. It’s my family’s fault that they abuse dogs. It’s my friend’s fault that they steal watches in the airport. It’s the drunken fan’s fault that I gave the fans the finger. It’s Sean John’s fault that I still dress and look like I am 12 years old.

Hey, DOB, I think it’s about time you call your buddy Kevin Millar and tell him to go play fullback or tight end or safety for the Dirty Birds and have him get in the grill of the face of our franchise and tell MV7 to freaking COWBOY UP! already before he p** away his career and more importantly the fortunes of our Falcons with all of his whining, crying, excuse making, finger pointing, and childish irresponsibility.

Better yet, maybe send in Suzanne Yoculan as Millar’s tag team partner to tell MV7 to take off his skirt and strap on the leotard like a man.

By eware

April 28, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

DOB, have you heard that new White Stripes song yet? Sounds like Meg will own this next album.

Also, what do you like about Bright Eyes? Seems cool, but I just can’t get into it.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Gil-You are a perceptive individual, my friend. Langerhans is not as bad as his start indicates and Diaz is not all that. Whether or not I get over it is not likely to make any difference in who plays.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 28, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Langerhans will have the opportunity to play the next two days. With that spacious outfield there has to be some hits out there somewhere.

I also think he can take one or two away.

He is thinking too much right now and that is the worse thing he could be doing to get out of a slump.

By james

April 28, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this

Anybody know the velocity on Gonzalez’s fastballs?

By Lew

April 28, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

James-Joe Simpson was saying last night that Gonzo hit 95 his last appearance.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

Mike in Brooklyn, I think we’ll see Dan Smith this summer with the Braves. I really do. Heard his name mentioned a few times late last season and in spring training. His numbers are outstanding, as you pointed out. And it’s Double-A he’s excelling in, not A-ball like a couple other Braves prospects people are a bit too carried away with already….

Rory, I hear ya on 7. And I think the authorities are going to want to know who was paying the bills for those 60-plus pit bulls if he didn’t know anything about what was going on at the house he owns….

Just noticed that this Joseph Arthur/Stars of Track and Field twin bill I’m gonna check out here at the Larimer Lounge in Denver tomorrow is coming to Smith’s Olde Bar in Atlanta on May 17 and the 40 Watt in Athens on May 18….

Eware, haven’t heard White Stripes’ new one. Hope it’s better than the last album, which I thought was a huge disappointment, frankly. But I love the Raconteurs record, really do.

As for Bright Eyes, hey, differing tastes, i guess. But if you listen to the album “I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning” and tell me you don’t like those first few songs, including the duets with Conor and Emmylou Harris (especially “We Are Nowhere and It’s Now”), and the final song, “Road to Joy,” well, I don’t know what to tell you, my man. Those are brilliant songs.

By MBATL

April 28, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

DOB, do you know why Wickman gave the “cut-throat” get-me-outta-here signal last night? Was he just flat, or hurting?

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I can only assume (until I talk to him) that he just didn’t have it. I asked Bobby twice, first “Was anything wrong with Wickman?” and then “So he’s fine physically, though, nothing wrong physically?” and both times he said absolutely fine. Wickman didn’t come out in time to talk. It was 15 minutes until 1 a.m. East Coast Time and I had deadline, like everyone else who had to leave without talking to him.

Won’t know for sure unless and until he speaks today.

By eric the elder

April 28, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

If the cut-throat signal from Wickman meant, “I have nothin’, get me outta here,” then I give him credit for his honesty.

I don’t know the physiology, but I wonder whether thin air affects a burly guy like Wickman more than others. When he was looking into the dugout, he had what appeared to be a panicky expression, and he looked very pale to me. Maybe I’m reading too much into it, and we’ll probably never know. Bobby would never admit it, of course, but if we don’t see Wickman for the rest of the series, we might be getting a hint.

By Scott

April 28, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Dave - Thanks for the repsonse on Lerew. My recollection is that he was highly thought of two years ago and then pitched poorly last year, is that right? I went back and checked his line for this year after reading your response and he’s got an ERA under 2 in four games started this year. But he’s only thrown 19 innings in his four starts - which I assume includes the 7 innings he threw last night. The control has been good so far but he’s also only struck out 10 in his 19 innings (just 2 last night). Hopefully he’ll get more consistent and he can help out before long.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

DOB-I just noticed that Aybar is not on the 40 man roster. I was under the impression that if a player without remaining options were removed from the 40 man, that is was tantamount to putting them on waivers or giving them their release. Apparently I’m wrong, or something happened I haven’t heard about. What’s up?

By Robert

April 28, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

“Langerhans is not as bad as his start indicates.”

Packed with inoformation, that statement is.

I mean, could anyone be as bad as Langerhans start? No

Since he is not as bad as his start indicates, does it mean he is any good at all? No

JAM packed with information I tell you

Join up with scalp em and coach, lew - bring the collective iq of the triumvirate into double digit territory

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 28, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

I really appreciate the optimists that we have here concerning Langerhans but lets get real. Its not like this guy is in his first season or this is the first season has had the chance to start. We are in year three and not only has his offense not improved but it has become worse. I realize that he is a great defender. He is. But, can anyone honestly say that his offense saves enough games to justify how many rallies his lack of offense kills? Langerhans defense is a 9 whereas Brandon Jones and Gregor Blanco’s is a 7 or 8. Now, Langerhans offense is about a 2 (and I’m being generous with that rating) while Blanco’s or Jones’ is unknown but I will bet house money it is better than a 2. My point is that I would rather give up a little defenseive ability to obtain substantial offensive ability. Fact is Langy has had multiple opportunities to prove he can hit. Last year his lack of offense was blamed on his wrist injury. Well, what is the excuse this season? I just don’t think that the Braves put their best lineup on the field everyday. A guy like Wilson will start hitting. His track record indicates it. Thorman has shown throughout his minor league career that he is a slow starter but once he gets heated up he is unstoppable. We are beginning to see that now. With Langerhans history tells us that this slow start of his is the rule not the exception.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

April 28, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Anyone else thing the Falcons are gonna pick Amobi Okoye from Louisville? The guy’s a 20 year old college graduate. Crazy.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

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

Looks like Miami is going to get a QB in Brady Quinn.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Lew, he’s on the SUSPENDED list. Suspended without pay. Options and waivers don’t come into play while he’s suspended without pay….

Robert (JIB), I’m gonna agree with you on being a bit surprised by those who would somehow remain so optimistic about Langerhans’ offense and keep offering defense of his woeful hitting.

I really like the guy, one of my favorite dudes on the team. Love talking Big 12 sports with him, football and hoops and the Austin music scene, etc. That said, he’s given little if any reason to believe he’s going to start hitting.

Just check these unbelievably bad stats I just crunched on him (while waiting, I admit, to see who the Falcons take in the draft before finally heading over to the gym):

Langerhans since April 21, 2006: .203 with five homers, 19 RBIs, 47 walks, 96 strikeouts in 305 at-bats, .317 OBP, .619 OPS in 134 games.

Langy on ROAD in that same stretch (and hold on to your seats for this one, because it’s staggering): .124 with five extra-base hits (two homers), six RBIs, 24 walks, 57 strikeouts in 153 at-bats, .243 OBP, .183 slugging, .426 OPS. That’s not a typo.

It’s mind-numbing, how bad those numbers are.

By bruce

April 28, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Dave, Thanks for the update on your Langy perspective. I’ve got some yard work to do, so I’ll put on my Langy T-shirt to see if that helps. I’m trying man. I like him alot too. Thanks, Bruce

By Lew

April 28, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Well-I know I like to argue, but I’m sorry, y’all. Langerhans may not be a huge offensive threat, but he is not an .050 hitter, either, and I just can’t understand why he is thought to be this bad. Maybe he will never be a .275 or better hitter, but God Almighty, the guy ain’t this bad. Period. Think what you will and I will do the same.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Oh-And if he really is as bad as all of you think, then why haven’t they just dumped him? Robert-I don’t want an answer from you, because I already know what YOUR answer will be.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

“Davies for Reggie fricking Sanders? “

In a heartbeat. In a New York minute. Faster than Bobby Cox can pick his nose

By KC

April 28, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

Lew: I’m trying to figure out what is with you and Langerhans. You’re heterosexual, so we can rule that out… I give up. Is he dating your daughter or something?

By Robert

April 28, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

“Oh-And if he really is as bad as all of you think, then why haven’t they just dumped him? “

A friend of mine used to have this theory that there were pictures out there of Schuerholz and/or Cox in some kind of embarrasing situation

Theory held that Rafael Belliard had the originals for many years

Tony Graffanino and Curtis Pride each bought a set, as did Danny Bautista and Chris Reitsma

Langerhans would presumably be the current owner of the originals

By Coach

April 28, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Langerhans is NOT a major league hitter. He never was and never will be. Besides , the Braves are scoring 5.27 runs a game so far , which is slightly ahead of last years pace of 5.22 . It hasn’t hurt to keep Langerhans on the team………..yet.

By macdwolfpack

April 28, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Dave, If it was me I’d bring up Brandon Jones to play left field. I think he’s about ready. If not now, I surely would consider it at the All Star break if he continues his good work at AA. I think he’s just about ready

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

April 28, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Lew, Langy isn’t a .050 hitter. I agree. But what type of hitter is he? Is he even a .250 hitter? No. He is barely a .220 hitter. Look, if folks want to defend him that is fine. But, it is not as if this guy is Willie Mays for goodness sake. His defense is good but its not that good. I’m sorry but I’m not willing to accept a .220 hitter being in the lineup 70% of the time just because he is an outstanding defensive player. I would even live with that average if he hit well in the clutch or came up with the occassional big hit, but he doesn’t. Numbers don’t lie. They may not tell the whole truth but they sure as hell don’t lie. His number don’t lie. This has been three years now that he has been terrible offensively. Lew, he hasn’t gotten better or even stayed the same. He has become worse.

Its not as if we don’t have other options. We do. A trade could be made. Langy is a good 4th outfielder. That is it. His offense hurts this team. I know a lot of people here hate Joe Morgan, but he knows baseball and he has a very solid point on the #8 hitter of a NL team. He says the #8 hitter should not be the worst hitter in the lineup. He said the #8 hitter should basically be a lighter version of the leadoff hitter. In other words someone who can get on base and hit some. Why? Because the pitcher’s spot is 9th. You don’t place your worst hitter in the 8 hole and basically give up two outs every time they come up in an inning and also the #8 hitter can come up with two outs and get on base thus keeping the pitcher from having to leadoff an inning which can happen a couple of times during the course of a game. But, in Langy’s case I wouldn’t want him hitting 7th either.

I’m just interested, Lew. I have to know. How long are you willing to give this guy to get his act together offensively? Would you give Frenchy the same rope? I remember several wanting Frenchy gone last year because of his offensive issues and his offesne was never as bad as Langy’s and his defense is close to as good.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Oh-And if he really is as bad as all of you think, then why haven’t they just dumped him? Because Keith Lockhart passed off the compromising photos of Bobby & John off to Pete Orr and Langerhans.

Lew’s fascination with watching Langerhans reminds me of a Yogism: You should always go to other people’s funerals; otherwise, they won’t come to yours.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 28, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Robert it is people such as yourself that lend ammunition those that advocate suppression of the freedom of speech.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Cox’s patience is amazing. Anybody else would have given Langerhans his walking papers a week ago.

By Amber

April 28, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

DOB: Any news yet on Tanyon Sturtze’s recovery and when he should be able to help us out? What’s his projected path?

By The Stranger

April 28, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Hello, my name is The Stranger, and I am a Ryan Langerhans apologist. Or, was. Those numbers, O’B, are staggering. It’d be forgiveable if we could at least get an inning of middle relief out of him a couple times a week.

At the same time, Lew’s point that he is better than an oh-five-oh hitter is inarguable. He could swing his glove and be better than .050. Doesn’t make him a big league starter, but he is a better hitter than his current avg., which I think was the point.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

KC-Dude, I don’t have a daughter. Mainly I just like to argue. I’d rather have Carl Crawford out there, right? However-Even if you figure that Langy will only hit .225 for the season, which even the most pessimistic of you should realize is more than possible, then he has a lot of hits left. No matter what any of us think about the left field situation, I know two things to be factual-1.Robert’s going to blame it all on BC and 2. The Braves brass are going to do what they will do and it won’t make a bit of difference what any of us think. Besides-Just listened to Queens of the Stone Age “Songs For the Deaf”-I’m re grounded.

By The Stranger

April 28, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

O’B, does Ryan know about the leotard? Couldn’t hurt, right? As long as it was tastefully done and didn’t violate league rules. You might mention it to him if you get the chance.

Thanks in advance.

By MBATL

April 28, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Top 10 Reasons to Support Ryan Langerhans:

1. Over two seasons, an OBP of about .350 indicates ability and likelihood that he’ll regain his stroke;

2. Excellent defense supports pitching staff;

3. Braves are 8-1 in games he’s started; he’s not hurting us too bad so far;

4. Drafted and developed by the Braves; we have an investment in this player that should not be abandoned lightly;

5. No options: the choice isn’t to send him to the minors to work it out; it’s to completely abandon him with no return;

6. It’s baseball: slumps happen. Langy does look lost at the plate, but just like KJ, Thorman, Diaz, etc, the numbers are likely to even out;

7. To make a trade for an outfielder at this point is difficult; few players available unitl July, and it’s money we probably don’t have to spend;

8. If we DO have any funds to play with, it would be wiser to wait until later in the year to determine best use of them;

9. Calling up a AA or AAA outfielder interferes with their development; those guys are down there for a reason - to gain experience;

And the Number One Reason to Support Ryan Langerhans:

1. He’s a Good Dude, per DOB!

By Oregon_Braves

April 28, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

It appears Dayn Perry has someone to join him in his quest to conquer the world with his douchebagery. The other making his first case is the Rob Parker dude from Detroit, who wrote with ming-boggling stupidity about Aaron being a coward for not supporting Bonds. Keep it up, Parker, and maybe you too will earn the distinction of Mr.Perry, who is indeed a douchebag.

So say we all.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

MBATL-Thank you. I couldn’t have said it better. Even if I could, though, I wouldn’t have gotten to argue with KC so much if I had.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

The Detroit Hack (don’t mention his name because that’s exactly what he wants out of all this) is just looking for attention. He can’t do it with the merit of his writing or his real thoughts so he calls Aaron a coward. Now, the whole country is talking about the scrubby hack. Pay him no attention and don’t mention his name. Aaron is the furthest thing from a coward there has ever been. Aaron has always been the type to not say anything if he has nothing nice to say. That’s not cowardly. That’s actually a strength. I wish myself and many others would follow his model of conducting himself on this blog. I think that Detroit chump is just using Aaron’s silence much in the same Pearlman used Rocker’s loudmouthness to make a name for himself. I have never taken Pearlman seriously as a result just like I will never take this Detroit hack seriously either. DON’T MENTION HIS NAME ANYMORE!

By Spike

April 28, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Wicky will be fine. Colorado is a graveyard for pitchers and we saw yesterday why that is the case. He’s a guy who relies on location and movement and when you can’t locate and its not moving you’re pretty much screwed. A great case in point was the comment yesterday by one of the Braves announcers about Cal Ripken talking about having to adjust the throw from third to first because the ball carried so true thru the thin air.Even watching Yates you could tell his slider was backing up so he went to his splitter way more than usual. Got ground balls that found holes…oh well, that’s baseball.Tyler has quietly done a great job of eating up a lot of appearances while Paronto is down and has squashed a few rallies in tough spots. I don’t know much about KJ, but he is either in an incredible zone right now or he is an incredible hitter. One way or another it is fun to watch. Thinking about the way McCann, Francouer, and KJ have improved it makes you wonder what would happen if Druw decided to be a hitter first instead of a slugger. For a guy so smart and talented I see him as an underachiever with the gifts he has.Granted he puts up numbers, but I still have this feeling that there is so much more he could achieve as a hitter rather than slugger.IMO. The Phillies are starting to hit and play much better and the NL east will be the most competetive division in baseball. What a great season it will be, no matter what the outcome at the end of the year.

By AdirondackDave

April 28, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

I sure like Langy’s game in the outfield but, jeez, it’s like having two pitchers in the batting order. In the long run this could do us in. I’d start Diaz every game and bring Langerhans in for defense in the 7/8th of every game we have the lead.

I’d also give Salty 30-50 games in AA this year at 1st/LF. We and everybody else knows his bat is for real. He doesn’t lose any catching trade value by getting some part-time AA experience in LF/1st. He could probably help us later this season, either in our lineup or getting a us a quality starter.

One final thought… can you imagine the offense night after night if 1-6 guys continue to play this way and Andruw becomes Andruw! Staggers the mind…

Another final thought… voting has started for the All-Star game. Vote early and often (which they encourage) for our 1-6 guys. They ALL deserve it, even Andruw with his defense considered. Let’s get actively behind our guys for a change. Easy to vote on mlb.com. Now, before you forget.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

RJIB-I hear what you’re saying, but I disagree for several reasons. 1. I don’t want to see us trade for an outfielder-I’d much rather save our resources to trade for pitching- even if (when) Andruw leaves, there are future stars that should be ready in a year or so. 2.I don’t want to keep pulling up AA players (Brandon Jones). 3. Apparently Blanco and McCarthy are not viable options in the minds of the Braves’ brass. That leaves you with Langerhans/Diaz. I still contend that if this slump were not at the beginning of the season, it wouldn’t be so apparent, especially with the Braves’ great start. If Andruw were tearing it up, it would be even less apparent. Add to that the fact that he’s had a total of 40 AB over a 22 game span and to me it says he just hasn’t had an oppurtunity for consistency. All I say is give him a chance. He has not started on a regular basis in his entire tenure with the Braves. He’s had 2 seasons with 325 AB and those are platoon numbers. Diaz is hardly heating up the NL, either, so what’s the problem with giving Ryan a chance to work it out? Give him two weeks of full time and if it doesn’t look like he’s improving by then, then you can dump him or use him in the 9th. But give the guy a REAL chance before you waste how many years of development. Those are really your options. Play him or wave bye bye. It sure would be a shame to just dump him. I hated we had to do that with Marcus, but at least there WAS a financial rationale not there with Langy.

By MBATL

April 28, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Great post, Spike. I agree with all - especially about AJ and what “might have been.” Maybe the good hitting approach of KJ, ER, CJ, Big Mac and even Frenchy will prove contagious and he’ll come around.

The Phillies: I thought Manuel had lost his mind when he moved Myers to the pen, but in fact they’ve won a lot of games since then. Myers will probably be their closer soon; and they’re hitting the ball now.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

RJIB-One last thing. I would have given Frenchy a much longer rope, because there is (was) much more potential there than Ryan has. I never was one who gave Francoeur grief about his slow start or lack of patience. I’ve always known he would come around. You have to realize that he was also a AA call up. If he had another year or year and a half in the minors, maybe he would have avoided some of his difficulties. That’s why I’d like to see Brandon Jones at least complete a full year at AA-AAA before being thrown into the fire. Even so, I would give him a much longer rope as well.

By AMG

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

Hello all!! I’m new to this blog adventure but a long time Braves fan. I have a few observations to add:

Langerhans is a great 4th outfielder. Someone who can play all three positions but NOT someone you can count on for run production. He may be more suited for an American League team who can bat him 9th and get run production from the other 8 spots in the order. Just a great defensive player.

Bob Wickman does not have the cardiovascular fitness level to pitch in Denver.

Someone please list the teams as of today that do NOT have questions with the 4th and 5th spots on their starting rotations

By Robert

April 28, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Two Coach quotes to ponder

1.”Langerhans is NOT a major league hitter. He never was and never will be”

2.”Cox’s patience is amazing. Anybody else would have given Langerhans his walking papers a week ago.”

Now here’s the challenge to the ole ball coach. Take both those working neurons. Crank the voltage up real high. Wet your fingers and stick em in the nearest electrical outlet if you’re unsure.

Now think of those two things you just said (within minutes of each other) and tell me

What might those two statements, taken together, say about senor Cox’s managerial abilities

I got $1 says that this is going to trigger an error message

User error - Bobby Cox is the greatest manager of all time. Replace user, kick him in the nads, and strike any key when ready

By Robert

April 28, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

“so he calls Aaron a coward. “

Aaron. HANK Aaron?

Like, the guy who played thru death threats when he was chasing down the Babe?

A coward?

Coach, take heart. You have been replaced as the stupidest human being on the planet by whoever it was that called Hank Aaron a coward

By nfieldr

April 28, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Great time at the ol’ ballyard last night. I was really surprised by the number of Braves fans at Coors… I felt right at home. The boys really had me worried there in the 9th. You could really feel the Rockies fans picking up on the positive vibe. Wick sure looked out of sorts. I know BC said that he was fine physically, but it sure looked like he was uncomfortable. I don’t know his final pitch count, but IIRC, at one point it was 9 strikes and 10 balls… that’s not good. Thankfully, Frenchy made that great play at the wall.

As for the Van the Man songs… my favs are Wavelenght, Into the Mystic, And It Stoned Me, and Tupelo Honey. I’m not so fond of Moondance and Brown Eyed Girl.. maybe they’ve just been overplayed.

It’s about time to head back over to Coors for Game 2. I’m really looking forward to seeing Smoltzie pitch tonight.

DOB, thanks for the heads up on the hotel (I used to post as BB). I was able to get a room there for the weekend at a reasonable rate as well. Denver’s been a blast so far and hopefully, we’ll get another big win tonight.

By TennesseePaul

April 28, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this

Last season when we got Wicky, a co-worker had this to say. (The co-worker is a transplanted Ohio-ian who loves the Indians.) “He’s good but he’ll drive you nuts. He puts runners all over the place but manages to get the job done. Have fun chewing your fingernails.” I think last year I posted this I saw an earlier post referencing it. So far Wickman has been just what we needed. And last night he showed us what a veteran should do. When he couldn’t get the ball where he wanted, he didn’t “gut it out” and ruin the game for the Braves. Reitsma would do this. Wickman looked into the dugout and said, “that’s it” and called it quits. He didn’t have it and he’d rather see the team get the win. This is what we need from our closer. A guy who knows himself and his duty.
There is a flip side, if he gets too comfortable with not performing, a la Pavano, he needs to go. But I don’t think Wickman is going to be that type of guy.

Langerhans could very well end up with a .225 average. All he’d have to do is hit .253 the rest of the season. Basing on the amount of playing time he is getting, he is looking at seeing another 278 plate appearances. But, he is pressing right now at the plate. He’s pushing himself pretty hard and that’s costing him. His K/BB rate is about 50% greater than his career average right now. This slump is snow balling on him. He’ll be in the line up tonight. Hopefully he’ll relax up there and just play the game like he did growing up. There was something the Braves saw in this guy when they drafted him, groomed him, and brought him to the show. So far he’s extremely streaky in his career. But he only averages 2.5 at bats per game played. That sure doesn’t help him get his stroke going.

Hopefully tonight Thor will have a monster game. What would it take for Thor to win the everyday job?

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

I’d have to agree that was a classic case of a columnist being a contrarian simply to draw attention to himself. He cannot possibly believe Aaron was a coward. He just can’t believe that. No one who can compose a sentence and qualify for a driver’s license could possibly believe that….

As for Wickman … I just talked to him. Bobby’s giving him the night off, and Wickman said if you looked at how much he’s been used this month and especially lately, and considered his age, etc, you’d see why he could use a day off. I gotta agree with that. I thought Bobby overused Gonzo and Soriano in the first week, and Wickman has already appeared in 12 games and finished 10 (he’d be tied for the NL lead in games finished if he got that last out last night).

He’s big and old (relatively speaking), and it should be taken into account. Twelve appearances in the first 22 games? That’s a pace for 88 appearances, for a 38-year-old who’s not appeared in 70 games since 2001, the year before his Tommy John surgery.

He admitted to me he was surprised he was in with a five-run lead last night, but also said he understood the Braves are in a situation where they need to win as many games as possible (I don’t know exactly what that means; aren’t they always?) and, more importantly, that a five-run lead at Coors Field is like a lead half that size elsewhere.

Said he didn’t think he would’ve been in the game last night in the same situation at most ballparks.

Anyway, that’s where we are.

Oh, and when he signaled, he was saying he didn’t have anything, that he couldn’t get out of the inning.

By Mike

April 28, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

I appreciate Bob being man enough to admit that he needed to be taken out. A lot of closers are too prideful to admit that and will cost their teams a game by staying in to long. He just needs some rest, he’s been as consistent a closer for a long time as anybody not named Trevor Hoffman or Mariano Rivera.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to win as many games as possible ? O’Brien , you speak the obvious. Then will somebody please explain to me why Cox continues to trot Redman out to the mound. He has a .448 career winning percentage which is right in line with his 82-108 team win/loss record in 190 career starts. The longer Redman stays in the rotation , the harder it will be for the Braves to compete.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Time to feed the monster. Robot , your an insult to the entire human race. Why don’t you do us all a favor and go bite tires like the dog that you are. Bring it punk , I have all day to trade insults with you and your 45 IQ.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Robot , your mama must have dropped you on your head and your daddy beat you with an ugly stick. I feel sorry for you…..on second thought , no I don’t. Hey , you want to talk baseball or shall we just continue to stink up this blog ?

By ElbravoX

April 28, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

Should Cox not know how Wickmam feels? I find this somewhat strange, some type of disconnect somewhere is afoot. Not good.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

Yo , Robot. It must take you a ton of intelligence to insult me and everybody else , right ? Baseball or barb’s , what’s it going to be ?

By eric the elder

April 28, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

AMG, welcome to the blog. Don’t be disheartened by the question about stinking up the blog. Most of us try not to.

By eric the elder

April 28, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

DOB, I know you can’t read the whole blog, but this morning I asked about the effects of thin air on big, burly, and older players like Wickman. Maybe Jeff Porter would have an opinion. You say we won’t see Wickman tonight, but my hunch is that we won’t see him tomorrow either.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Coach, Scalp ‘Em, Robert, and whomever else is being sucked into that garbage, you guys are all better than the childish nonsense you all are spitting at each other. You all have too much to add to the blog, so cut it out already for all of our sakes. Please!

By AMG

April 28, 2007 7:49 PM | Link to this

“Stinking up the blog?”

I’m in agreement with eric the elder’s hunch. I don’t think Wickman’s fitness level is good enough to make it long innings in Denver.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this

I just got my new copy of Chop Talk, which has a monthly column by JS and one by BC. Interesting comments. In JS’s column he mentions the first two Redman starts, not by his name but as “the opening game at home and the first game against the Marlins”. He says of them “those two games, we just had unfortunate starting pitching circumstances. We’re obviously concious of that and have an eye on it”. Now that’s pretty strong language for JS, who never says anything much. In BC’s column, the headline quote is “Who knows? Imay still manage 10 more years”. Hear that Robert, your torture and torment may go on forever. Just think of it as a new and unique form of personal pergatory. Hee Haw.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Eric-I know I’m not a substitute for DOB, but I am Wicky’s size (though somewhat older). A couple years ago I went to an art exhibit in Reno and we drove up to Tahoe. The elevation there was over 9,000 feet and it was all I could do to walk around. I’m sure the thin air in Denver wasn’t all that conducive to Wicky’s comfort and physical output last night.

By KC

April 28, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

ANNOUNCING THE RYAN LANGERHANS FAN CLUB!

Membership includes an actual game jersey worn by Ryan Langerhans (we don’t anticipate enough interest to run out)… a “K’s are OK!” bumper sticker, and a “Swing Hard In Case You Hit It” t-shirt.

JOIN TODAY! Contact Lew for more information.

By KC

April 28, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Oh, come on Lew… I went skiing in Tahoe last year and it wasn’t all that bad. I didn’t have any problems breathing. You’re just old I guess. =)

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Coach, that wasn’t a quote from me about needing to win as many games as possible. I was reacting to a quote from WICKMAN.

don’t give me that, “o’brien you speak the obvious.” that line means nothing. not if it’s your way of getting around to asking me about redman, again as if it’s my damn decision to start him or keep him or anything else.

if i took it as insulting and you didn’t mean it that way, sorry. just read it wrong, then.

either way, it’s all good. no worries.

By David O'Brien

April 28, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

so coach, who do you want them to “trot out there?” Perhaps Davies, who is 1-6 with a 10.55 ERA and .375 opponents’ average in his past 11 starts, with almost as many walks (31) as strikeouts (35) in 42-2/3 innings?

Or the injured Cormier? Or bring up a couple of guys who have no experience against major league hitters other than getting their brains bashed in by them in spring training?

The Yankees have a $190 mill payroll and are trotting out some journeymen and kids who aren’t ready. Just about every team has a pitcher or two at the back of their rotation that they’d prefer to have a better alternative to, and the Braves have two (Hampton and Cormier) on the DL.

Join the real world, not the fantasy one where the rotation is five deep in quality.

By N8

April 28, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Two observations, then I’m out for the night.

1) I realize that LF/RF yield to the CF, and Andruw is great, don’t get me wrong. But watch the replay of Andruw’s nice catch. NO DOUBT in my mind that Francoeur makes that catch as well. He totally slowed down once he realized Andruw was there.

2) I know it’s Coors Field, but is anybody else worried about Smoltz’ location on his pitches the last few outings?

Just a thought.

L8R

By Rory

April 28, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

This just in: Andruw is a pretty good centerfielder. I think he just might win a Gold Glove out there some day. How the heck does that that guy make a really tough catch look so routine for him? Wish I was there to see that in person.

Frenchy goes deep!

And, this just in, Kelly Johnson is pretty darn good. Right now, it looks like the Braves have three #3’s with McCann, Chipper, and KJ and two #4s with Frenchy and Andruw. And Edgar is everything you want and need out of a #2.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

N8:

NO DOUBT IN YOUR MIND THAT FRENCHY MAKES THAT CATCH?!?!?!

Come on. have you watched Frenchy out there. he is a good enough fielder but he is awkward going after balls, especially balls around the wall like that. Maybe Frenchy would have caught that ball but only maybe - not NO DOUBT about it. And he would not make it look as easy as Druw just did. That looked easy only becuase it was Druw. And, yes, the centerfielder always calls off the rightfielder in that situation - UNLESS you want a replay of the triple in the ALDS game a few years ago where Bubba Crosby did not call off Sheffield.

By AMG

April 28, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Everytime Andruw Jones swings … my back starts to hurt.

He keeps that swing up all year, he and Jeff Porter will be spending a lot of time together.

By ElbravoX

April 28, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Smoltz is injured. He shows discomfort.

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Evening friends and neighbors…

Everything is looking good in the land of thin air through 5 innings tonight. Smoltz has gotten through a bit of a challenging first inning, but has done just fine since.

The most clueless person in America is in Detroit. I won’t dignify what the guy said about Hank Aaron other than saying that. I mean, wow. Utterly amazing.

Gang I’ve been thinking more and more about the extension to tonight’s starting pitcher’s contract. I said it on here after the news broke that it’s wonderful news. Terry McGuirk and JS HAD to run that up the flagpole at Liberty prior to giving Smoltz the offer. Just a hypothetical question for the masses, no answer necessary… I wonder if the same move would have been made had Hampton not been shut down for the season and had we gotten a bit of that money back in insurance?

I don’t know what this could entail for Liberty’s payroll plans after this year, and I won’t attempt to read anything more into this than the interesting occurrence that it is at this point.

By Lew

April 28, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

KC-Could the 33 years of up to 3 packs a day (I quit 10 years ago) have anything to do with it. Also, I would bet if you went skiing, you don’t go 250 or 260, do you? As far as that T shirt, would you wear it instead of your “Hi, I’m Matt Diaz and I have that ground ball two inches to the left of shortstop, down real good” shirt of your own?

By Paco

April 28, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Just throwing this out there, but Jeff Weaver will almost certainly be designated for assignment by Seattle in the coming week(s) after giving up 7 hits and 6 runs and getting 1 out (The only thing preventing it from happening sooner is that they gave him 8 mil for one year so they may try to resurrect him out of the bullpen). His numbers are absolutely atrocious thus far, as in he’s probably been the worst pitcher in baseball. However, he was terrible for Anaheim last year before coming up big for St. Louis. Based on his career numbers, its pretty obvious the guy has a lot more success in the NL. Anyone have an opinion on whether he’d be better than Redman for the time being? Shoot who knows maybe they could even make a crap for crap deal with Seattle picking up all of Weaver’s salary since no matter what they’ll have to anyways. Thoughts?

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Nice double to center by Smoltz.

By tyyosh

April 28, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

I think Wickman’s curious comment about having to win as many games as possible meant this: This year, this team is the challenger trying to keep up and defeat a fearsome defending champion, so every win is extra crucial. In some of those other years, the Braves were the giants and were so much better than the competition, that whenever there was a doubt and someone needed to rest himself, he could likely do it.

By eric the elder

April 28, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Greg TN, what you say about the Smoltz deal might be true, but I still think it indicates that Andruw is going, going, gone, and we’re already spending the money saved.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

“Bring it punk , I have all day to trade insults with you and your 45 IQ.”

Translated - He’s on welfare and proud of it

Tell the truth chief. You got more tattoos than teeth dont you?

By AMG

April 28, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

I have noticed Smoltz’s movements on the mound. It looks like his back is a little stiff this evening… but then again, he just hit a double.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

“Then will somebody please explain to me why Cox continues to trot Redman out to the mound”

Cuz he’s the greatest manager of all time, or so you claim. Or did you forget already?

Look at the bright side Coach. If you bought your brain in the 10 cent bin, you only overpaid by $1.50 or so.

For extra credit, tell me how much that means your brain is worth. You can use a calculator if you like.

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Eric,

That’s a very good point and I have a feeling that when all is said and done, you’ll be right.

The last few seasons and even up to points of this past offseason, I was of the opinion that the Braves should do what they can to try and keep AJ. He’s starting to break out of it, but his performance at the plate is further confirmation to me that if he decides to walk, we’ll be just fine.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

I guess the Detroit writer was trying to call Aaron out by getting on him for staying in the background about the whole steroids thing

Coward, however, was absolutely the wrong word to use. Aaron might have any of a number of reasons for taking the stance he has regarding Bonds’ pursuit of his record (I could guess at some that might make sense, but wouldnt presume to know the Hammer’s thinking).

I would bet big money that fear, of anything - be it negative publicity, reprisals from any individual or entity, or whatever - is NOT what has made Aaron take the stance he has adopted

Maybe he was trying to incite an impulsive emotion-based response from Aaron. More likely he was trying to get attention via shock factor. Also likely is that he couldnt quite find the word he was looking for and coward was as close as he could come

Precision in language is, sadly, underutilized and underappreciated these days

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

Paco,

Not really wild about what Weaver has done in the past 3-4 years even when taking into consideration his work with St. Louis last year. He’s been giving up a lot of homers in the past few years and I think we’d be taking a chance that he’d turn it around which is what we did with Redman. Not sure that trading one dice roll for another is in our best interests right now.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

By the way, number 742 has left the yard.

Someone’s gotta say something about the start Bonds has had. Right now he projects to 64-136-.370 - give or take a little on the power and ribbies vs average and it looks eerily similar to 2001, which is, of course, the year he jacked 73

Can pure in your face spite motivate this much?

Let’s get real cynical and ask, is it possible he is juiced right now off something noone can detect (and which he presumably is unaware of, thinking it’s antifungal creme or somesuch :P)

Or is it time to face the truth - and put our anger, our jealousy, our sense of betrayal, and yes, our subtle ongoing racism aside, and admit that - whether he juiced or not, whether it was knowingly or not (if he did juice), whether he lied or not, whether the federal government (which has ZERO business being involved in ANY of this) exonerates him or sends him to the gallows - all that aside,

Barry Bonds is THE best player (by far) of this generation, and among the elite of the elite of the elite all time.

Noone ever said the truth had to be popular.

By eric the elder

April 28, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

Greg TN, I think so too. A couple of guys on the blog disagree with me, but I also think that TP has seen about enough of Andruw. I don’t know how much TP’s input counts, but his look of disgust this evening said a lot.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

One more 0-for-3 night, and Langerhans’ batting average will be lower than Coach’s IQ

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Eric,

Yeah, I think TP has been ready to pull his hair out at AJ’s manic streaks at the plate. An at bat tonight pretty succinctly sums up his approach. He swung so hard in an attempt to pull the ball that his momentum took him out of the batter’s box.

By Robert

April 28, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Well, it’s now a 4 run lead.

As we speak, Cox is hard at work trying to figure out how to salvage a save opportunity from this game

By Robert

April 28, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

“Baseball or barb’s , what’s it going to be ?”

Since you know nothing about baseball, …

By R.A. Fisher

April 28, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

Langerhans batting average is now < .05, which is statistically significant.

We must reject the null hypothesis that Langerhans is a major league hitter and accept the alternative (i.e. the minor leagues).

By Greg in TN

April 28, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Ballgame…

Can’t ask for much more from the squad than what we got tonight. Nice homer by Renteria late, an effective inning from Gonzalez after giving up that double to Helton, Soriano was light’s out in the ninth.

Tommorrow, we’re looking at a Rocky Mountain sweep if we can get some good innings out of Kyle Davies.

By parks

April 28, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Robert, its really time to realize how big of a insignificant nothing you are

By Thomas Bayes

April 28, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

Fisher - you have it wrong my frequentist friend.

Since we all had a strong prior belief that Langerhans was not a good hitter, there was enough evidence quite some time ago to make the decision to send him to the minor leagues.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

“No man knows less than the man who knows it all”

“The only fool bigger than the person who knows it all is the person who argues with him”

“The fellow who thinks he knows it all is especially annoying to those of us who do.”

By JB

April 28, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Robert, noone is not a word in the English language.

Bonds is juiced, was juiced. The stuff is everywhere, and the so-called “testing” in MLB is laughable.

Yeah, a 42yo, soon to be 43yo hitting 70 hrs. I guess he just eats his wheaties and prays to the right god.

By fastasballs

April 28, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

For the 4000th time, Langerhans CAN’T be sent to the minors, he is OUT of options. DOB, Maybe you can add that statement to each of your blogs because not a damn one goes by without someone asking or demanding it.

Langerhans looked a lot better tonight, still no hits, but he did not strike out on the first three pitches he saw or dribble one to first base.

He should start the next two games so maybe he will finally get a hit. I’m not holding my breath though.

By MEB

April 28, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

I do believe that ESPN’s NFL draft coverage will cause permanent brain damage.

Grinch… if you are still able back away from the TV and go take a long walk. Resist any temptation to watch any more draft coverage for at least a lifetime.

Nice win by the Braves tonight and I hope that Buffalo Bob enjoyed a night off. I’d give him tomorrow off as well and hope he is ready for the Phillies come Monday.

GO BRAVES!!!

By KC

April 28, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this

Lew: Yes, 33 year of 3 packs a day could play a part. =) But I’m assuming Bob Wickman isn’t a chain smoker.

I have to say one thing about Langerhans… he is remarkably consistent. Most consistent hitter on the team.

By KC

April 28, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Braves now have best record in NL… tied for MLB-best at 15-8.

By mr baseball

April 28, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Someone correct me if my numbers are off a little, but the Braves are something like 10-1 with Langerhans in the starting lineup. Clearly he has contributed about as much to those 10 victories as Willy Aybar, but facts are facts. As long as the Braves keep winning, what’s the harm in leaving him out there. At some point, he is going to get a hit and raise his average to .100 or so. Maybe his teammates are trying extra hard when he’s playing, realizing that they’re playing with essentially two pitchers in the lineup. It’s working so far. Why ruin a good thing?

Coach & Robert: sorry, guys. Not nearly as entertaining as Trump vs. Rosie. Trump vs. Vince McMahon? Maybe. Same intellectual level.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 28, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

robert, i wouldn’t consider someone who used steroids to turn his career around to be the best player of his generation. yes, at one point, he probably was; but, when he was at the age when his performance should have been declining, instead he became better than ever; his body also mysteriously ballooned in a short matter of time. does using foreign substances in order to make him a better player make him the best player of his generation? i don’t think it does, but that’s just me.

bonds did use steroids, and did so knowingly.

By chipdip

April 28, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

barry bonds = rusty trombone.

By chipdip

April 28, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

barry bonds>cleveland steamer.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 28, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

Robert… are you referring to those of the pre or post WWF Era… I think they should induct “Shoeless Joe” into the HOF. After all… Where the “Proof” he cheated. wasn’t it just guilt by association? I saw the movie… looked innocent to me…. and poor Pete Rose too…. gee Roger.. let them all in. What do a few rules have to do with it? Pete was the “Hit King”.

Pete could not help himself, gambling is an illness like drug abuse. Major League Baseball forgives that don’t they?

Barry Bonds was once a gifted athlete. Unfortunately he let his ego overshadow good judgement. He did not need steroids to be great but he did them anyway and in doing so he tainted himself and his image.

He may hit more home runs than Hank Arron but he will never be respected by his peers nor the majority of baseball fans because he did cheat.

Once upon a time sportsmanship was important in this country. Sadly, we have given over to the image of thuggery and in your face competition.

I guess when you lay down with the dogs you must expect to get up with the fleas.

By Rory

April 28, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

Robert, you failed to bring up the fact that Bonds finally hit puberty in his very late 30s - that is why he tripled in size. Had nothing to do with steroids whatsoever. I knew a lady once who never caused me to turn my head. Then she shows up one day with a set of 38DDs at the age of 37. I said the same thing about her that I say about Bonds. Damn, puberty is a very hard thing to predict these days. It can just spring up on you 25 years too late. Next thing you know 75 year old woman are going to be pregnant as well.

By Spike

April 28, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Gil Great post. Barry Bonds once was the best baseball player in the major leagues. His huge ego led him to the point that I truly hope his knees give out before he breaks Aaron’s record. I hate to wish that on anyone, but what a shame it will be when he breaks the most honored record in sports and no one will celebrate with him. A shame for him and a shame for the sport.

By The Grinch

April 28, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Oh, my head…no more Chris Berman…please no more…I feel like Alex from “A Clockwork Orange” after his rehabilitation. Must sleep and recharge; Michael Bush is still on the board and the Falcons have a high 4th rounder in the morning. Good job Bravos. G’night, all.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Bonds , the best player of our generation ? Robot your a freaking MORON. Barroid steriod would be retired and on the card signing circuit by now if it wasn’t for his chemically enhanced , GHB pumped up body. Without steroids , Bonds is just another talented hall of famer. With them , he is baseballs worst nightmare. Only a stupendous idiot such as robert(robot) would defend the poster boy for steroids.

By gotigers72

April 28, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

Great catch by Andruw, and a great catch by Frenchy last night. I didn’t realize how great Frenchy’s catch was until I saw how far he had to run to catch it. He can run like a deer. One of these years after he learns to read pitchers, he’ll steal 20-30 bases. That catch was particularly good because of the situation it came in. If he doesn’t catch that, it’s a tie game and a runner on third.

Langerhans is out of options, but he could still be sent down if he clears waivers. Do you think anyone would claim him off of waivers? I don’t see how the Braves can continue to justify playing him in a platoon situation with him batting .049. Use him as a 4th outfielder, put him in during the late innings for defense, let him pinch hit if you have to, but play Diaz against right and left handers. It looks like he will always be below average as a hitter. I hope he goes out tomorrow and goes 4 for 4, but if his hitting woes continue, the Braves will have to make a decision on him SOON.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

O’Brien , your trying to tell me that Villarreal wouldn’t be a better option than Redman ? you lost that argument all by yourself , my man.

By Bravesbaby

April 28, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

DOB…Do you think the braves will stick with Langerhans or give up on him. I for one feel bad for the guy but come on. A 049 average and that throw tonight was terrible. Do you see a trade for a leftfielder anytime soon? Maybe a promotion?

By Coach

April 28, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

O’Brien , don’t even think about giving me that(Villarreal is the only long relief we have)crap. The vulture has made eight relief appearances so far , none of them more than two innings.

By Coach

April 28, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Robot , defending the most the hated(barriod bonds) player of our generation. Now……. that is classic !

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

How ‘bout how Andruw had all the OF’s shifted over tonight. They were playing righty hitters to hit to right, giving them all of left-center and down the LF line in order to prevent triples to the R-C gap. That was Andruw’s doing, no one else’s….

Braves had two of the NL’s top five in OPS before tonight, Chipper and Kelly J….

Edgar’s hit .348 in 141 at-bats at Coors, including .456 (26-for-57) in his past 14 games here….

Frenchy’s hitting .353 on the trip, a very good sign for a guy who’s hit about 100 points higher at home than on the road since beginning of last season….

Coach, no I’m not saying Villarreal wouldn’t be a better option. But as I said in the original blog, give these two _ Redman and Davies _ a couple more weeks, a couple more starts apiece, to see if one separates himself, if one is decent or one is just more terrible than the other.

Or do you see something I don’t see, Coach, that makes you believe a guy (Davies) who is 1-6 with a 10.55 ERA and .375 opponents’ average in his past 11 starts, with almost as many walks (31) as strikeouts (35) in that stretch, is the better option than Redman? Maybe you see something. let me know.

And keep in mind, one guy can’t be sent to the minors with nary a concern, and recalled 15 days later if need be. The other cannot. As bad as Redman’s been, you can bet someone will look at the fact that he had only three weeks of spring training, no workouts before the games started down there like the other pitchers did, and someone will claim him if the Braves tried to send him down.

He’s made four starts, two of which were terrible, one OK, the other a quality start in which he lasted 7-1/3 innings and allowed three runs, and the Braves were shut out.

By caveman22

April 29, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

coach what team are you the coach of??

what is your record now and career wise??

If these are your coaching strategy’s and philosophy’s will you ever be promoted from girls jv squad??

or are you that creepy “coach” that teaches “health” class??

By David O'Brien

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

Coach, you sure are talking awful tough tonight, telling me not to give you “that crap” and such. Tell you what, until you have a better topic than Redman/Davies/Villarreal, I’ll avoid any more discussions with you, since you don’t want me to tell you what I think anyway.

And tell you what else, who died and made you the de facto moderator here? You don’t like my answers, stop addressing me. You’re a guest here. Nobody cares if you think Villarreal should start. i think he should, too. Which is why I wrote it in the original blog. But so what? Braves don’t care what you think, or I think. Give it a rest.

You have zero patience. Zero. And fortunately, big league teams don’t make decisions the way you do. But I’m sure you wanted to go with Kelly this spring, wanted to keep Edgar instead of handing his job to Escobar … I’m sure you wanted all these things, right? Because you’re so rational and always see the big picture (excuse me while I hurl now)

By Coach

April 29, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Robot , you do not want the truth. Lies are your specialty.

By Tomahawkin' Again

April 29, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

DOB Nice win by the Bravos and a 5-3 (hopefully 6-3 after Sunday) road trip. Now, let’s talk about Langerhans: it’s has long since become embarrassing to watch when he’s at the plate. In all seriousness, why is he still getting playing time? There has to be someone…anyone in the Braves system that they can being up to fill the platoon w/Diaz. Does he have pictures of Bobby with a donkey or what?

By caveman22

April 29, 2007 12:17 AM | Link to this

coach oh yeah , “mr smartypants” — GHB is a drug used for sleeping and rest and rejuvenation for bodybuilders and is more commonly called the “date rape” drug because all it does it knock you out like a light when mixed with alcohol.

I believe you meant HGH — you know Human Growth Hormone.

Guess that means you did teach health class cuz those coach’s didn’t know crap either!!

By Bravesbaby

April 29, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

DOB…Not that I am complaining but why do you think the braves are signing the players to long term deals now. Any insite? I love what they are doing and this move with Smoltz made my day. I just have to wonder why. Has payroll opened up a bit or is Liberty Media getting ready to close and now running the show. Its just not something the braves have done. Makes me wonder whats going on behind the doors.

By Coach

April 29, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

O’Brien , which one of the four starts that Redman made is the OK one ? The one where he gave up five runs , six runs or seven runs ? A quality start is three runs , four runs could be considered good or OK , but anything beyond that is just unacceptable. I’m not even going to defend Kyle Davies , which brings me to my real concern. Three quality starters are not enough and I’ll add it up for you. Smoltz , Hudson and James could make 105 starts , account for approximately 70-75 wins and that would leave another 20-25 wins blowing in the wind. It’s just not enough , Redman will lose more games than he will win as his .448 career winning(losing) percentage will attest to. The Braves need two guys at the back of the rotation who at least pitch .500 ball and at the moment they don’t have it.

By Coach

April 29, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

Caveman ,I stand corrected. illicit drugs are not my specialty. You might want to ask robot , he knows everything. O’Brien , go ahead and hurl . you lost this argument and just cannot handle the fact that a blogger such as myself has brought up a valid concern. Get off your freaking high horse already , your no better or worse than any blogger in here. Maybe that journalist in Detroit could be a lesson in humility for you and all your beat writer friends.

By TheSouthernJackAss

April 29, 2007 12:39 AM | Link to this

The SJA bids everyone a final farewell and adieu…A*******Clowns!…

By Bravesbaby

April 29, 2007 12:44 AM | Link to this

Gee coach take a chill pill. A lot of teams need pitching and your all over Davies and Redman. If every pitcher came with their top stuff right off the bat, it would not be a fun season. Some pitchers take longer to perfect their stuff. I personally would not give up on Davies all that fast. He knows what he wants to do, give the kid a chance to make adjustments.

Sure are glad I didnt have you in school or anything. You are one hard person to please. Maybe you should be on a mets board someplace. Seems you would fit in well with those complainers.

By Coach

April 29, 2007 12:54 AM | Link to this

I’m not complaining. Just trying to get the message across in as simple terms as possible. I pulled the plug on this team June 29th last season and everybody laughed , then the wheels fell off the 2006 season. I’m either really lucky or a whole hell of a lot smarter than I let on.

By Don Imus

April 29, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Smoltz is Mr. Brave no other. Thank you John from everyone in Atlanta.

On another note, Jeff Francoeur is going to be a superstar. He is nothing but a winner. Will be fantastic watching this young man mature into a great player.

By Coach

April 29, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

One more correction and I’ll call it a night. I knew KJ would be the 2B of choice , Prado at least deserved a bench spot and he did have a better spring than KJ , nothing more. Escobar over Renteria ? NEVER SAID ANY SUCH THING O’Brien. I said he should be Chipper’s back up since Aybar went A.W.O.L. and Chipper has started every game so far. Just wait for it , the DL’s coming and then we shall see if the Braves brain trust makes the right call up. It’s all yours Robot. have it my friend. I promise , I won’t read a word.

By gotigers72

April 29, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

Just went on MLB.com and checked some stats. The Braves are tied for the best record in baseball [with the Red Sox], and leading their division.

That being understood, they are TWELFTH in the NL in ERA, TWELFTH in the NL in fielding, and EIGHTH in the NL in batting average [but third in runs scored]. So how in Hades do they have the best record in baseball. I really can’t figure it out except for the runs scored thing helps a lot. And maybe the clutch hits. But otherwise there is nothing there to suggest a first place team. I never would think a team with the twelfth best ERA could lead their division.

Just imagine how good they’ll be if the pitching ever comes up to snuff, which it will eventually.

By nfieldr

April 29, 2007 1:32 AM | Link to this

OK, I’m probably overreacting a little, but is anyone else concerned about the little mini slump that McCann seems to be in? Although I think he had a hit last night (who didn’t?), but his swings haven’t looked that solid to me during these past two games. Of course, that could be because I’ve been seeing them live and not on TV as I’m used to.

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this

Coach, go to Vegas, because if the options are as you assert _ you say you’re either “really lucky” or a “whole hell of lot smarter than I let on” _ well, go to Vegas, my friend. Or buy a bunch of lotto tickets….

Gotigers, a lot of it has to do with fact they were hitting about 20 points higher than anyone else with RISP and two outs, and ranked second in the NL in close-and-late hitting, and their ERA’s a bit skewed by the two terrible Redman starts and a few bullpen blowups by a couple of guys.

As Chipper said last week, when they get beat they get clobbered. Those 11-run games by the opposition tend to skew things a bit. And in the case of Soriano, he’s been close to perfect in the games he entered that were close. He only gave up runs when games weren’t close, if I’m not mistaken.

By Don Imus

April 29, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this

Hank Aaron is a class man. Anyone trying to “call him out” is pathetic. The man is an icon who did it the honest way. He deserves tremendous respect because like they say “he earned it”.

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

Nfieldr, McCann is 1-for-13 in his past three games. Big deal. He was 5-for-13 with four doubles in the first three games of this trip. I don’t know that an 8-for-29 (.276) constitutes a “mini slump,” but if it does he’s an even better hitter than I expected.

Sorry, don’t mean to make light of your comment. But I’d have a hard time getting worked up with concern about a catcher who’s still hitting .295 with 10 extra-base hits, 13 RBIs and an .830 OPS in 21 games.

By ElbravoX

April 29, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

Snap! Where is Salty and Prado? We could have being a contender!

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

Sorry if you’ve logged off before I got to this post, Coach (I’d call you by your last name, like you do me, but I don’t know yours):

“O�Brien , which one of the four starts that Redman made is the OK one ?” asks Coach.

Uh, this one, genius: April 19 vs. Cubs, Redman 7-1/3 innings, seven hits, three runs, two walks, five strikeouts. Braves lost 3-0.

Or does that not meet acceptable standards for the demanding Coach?

Give me a break. And don’t in any way compare me to the columnist in Detroit. Sounds like he has a lot more in common with you _ arrogance, for one thing _ than with me.

By the way, you say the Braves need two guys at the back of the rotation pitching at least .500 ball. Wow, quite an observation.

Hey, maybe you should also suggest that to about 25 other teams, too. They all need two guys at the back of their rotation pitching .500 or better ball, and most aren’t getting it.

Now, how to get those two … well, don’t let practical matters like that stand in the way of your demanding criteria, right?

Doesn’t qualify as a particuarly astute point, Coach. Now, if you’d like to suggest how the Braves _ and those other teams _ get two more starters to pitch .500 or better ball, please do.

It must be nice to see such clear-cut answers to problems that highly paid GMs and managers struggle so much to deal with.

By mr baseball

April 29, 2007 2:01 AM | Link to this

Gil: exactly when was sportsmanship important in this country and in baseball? The Black Sox scandal. Ty Cobb sharpening his spikes and going into the stands to pummel the handicapped. Pitchers doctoring baseballs. Pitchers throwing at batter’s heads after giving up a home run. Overt racism directed at Jackie Robinson. Major league teams serving as virtual farm teams for the Yankees. The reserve clause. Greenies. I could go on, but I think that’s sufficient.

Love him or hate him, and it’s obvious just about everybody in baseball outside San Francisco hates him, Bonds was one of the 2 best players of his era BEFORE steroids. Anyone who disputes that is simply displaying ignorance/bias/jealousy/whatever. For most of the time he was using whatever he was using, baseball DID NOT CARE what he, McGwire, Sosa, Canseco, etc., did. Neither did any of you so eloquently ripping him here.

Is he still juicing? Maybe. But I don’t know and neither do any of you. Why is it that so many players who were apparently juicing — Canseco, McGwire, Caminiti, Boone, Sosa — broke down so quickly and so noticeably while Bonds has kept going despite his deteriorating knees?

How many homers did he hit off pitchers who were using some banned substance? How many homers would he have hit if he stayed clean? Who knows. The guy is a jerk and a cheater, but there are lots of players in the Hall of Fame who fit in either or both categories.

It will be interesting to see how DOB’s compatriots with HOF votes deal with him.

By Bravesbaby

April 29, 2007 2:13 AM | Link to this

Well Mr Baseball, nobody knows the answers but I do know one thing. I want to be there when Bonds head explodes. That would be worth watching.

By caveman22

April 29, 2007 2:25 AM | Link to this

DOB have you been drinking some RED BULL tonight?? You seem like you got a little kick going over there. I’m sure you’ve seen people like Coach before, they say anything and everything so that when or IF? it happens they can claim that they called it. Why worry about his ignorant rant about his knowledge, just concentrate on telling him what a douchebag his is, or better yet — LET ME DO IT!!! That we you can claim “plausible denialbility”. I think I will amend my sign for TBS to read — Blogger “Coach” is an As$clown!!. I for one think your brilliantly intelligent — for a kid who rode the short bus!! lol aww c’mon I’m just kiddin.

By Wayne in UT

April 29, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this

You tell ‘em Davey ole boy!

By Wayne in UT

April 29, 2007 2:47 AM | Link to this

er, I mean Mr. O’Brien!

:-)

What about my Utah Jazz tonight!! Took two of my sons and two of their friends to the game. Watch out Yao and T-Mac. the Jazz are coming to Houston Monday night to administer an old fashion hiny whooping!

By Wayne in UT

April 29, 2007 2:54 AM | Link to this

Coach

Damn. Yo head gonna explode from gettin’ so big dude. You be so dang smart.

Look at Prado’s last 10 games in AAA. Nice glove, OK bat, but nothing special. KJ, that’s different. Escobar, when he has done it for 2 months, I would say will be ready for a possible call up.

Some people’s glass is half full, others are half empty.

By Wayne in UT

April 29, 2007 3:00 AM | Link to this

Dave I can’t remember how you rated Coors Field in Denver. I have been to 3-4 games there, and love the place. (I also love Seattle, SF, and Phoenix’ new ballparks.) Haven’t been to too many others except for the older ones in SF, Anaheim, Oakland, St Louis, Atlanta, and Houston.

Got the worst case of food poisoning ever from a Brats at Coors Field about 3 years ago! Frankie Valle wrote a song about my experience: “Oh What a Night”

Nite all………..

By Wayne in UT

April 29, 2007 3:11 AM | Link to this

Gil, KC, SJA, Grinch, Lew, Robert: (and others) Hello all! Been working like an old dog lately, blogging time is severly limited.

Robert: Hey, I guess if we just hit like gangbusters, we are gonna make BC look good no matter what. I guess if we win it all, then you might have to put on a pot of crow? But, that wouldn’t be a bad thing either, would it?? After all, most of us want the same thing here, we just have different views of how to get there….

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

Wayne, I love Coors Field. Don’t like a lot of the games there (too much hitting because of both the altitude and the huge outfield; lot of people don’t realize that’s at least as much a factor that makes it so hitter-friendly _ outfield has to be huge to keep some balls in the park, but having those big expanses allows so many bloops hits with the outfielders playing deep, and gappers that won’t fall between OFs in smaller parks)…

By TennesseePaul

April 29, 2007 3:39 AM | Link to this

Smoltz. That’s all that needs be said.

Go Braves!!

By Richard Cory

April 29, 2007 7:06 AM | Link to this

caveman22—how dare you bring up ‘coach’s’ record. How was he to know that she was only 15. :]]

By Robert

April 29, 2007 7:29 AM | Link to this

“Bonds , the best player of our generation ?”

Yes.

If he had retired at 38 or 39, and had never had a resurgence, his cumulative stat sheet and per at bat offensive totals wouldve already put him into very elite company

What he is doing at 42 1/2, and presumably now OFF the juice, just shows how far ahead of the field he was, and is

Folks, a lot of guys did steroids and hit 40 or 50 home runs, at age 25 or 30 or so

When Bonds presumably did them, he hit 70, in his late 30’s. And hit .320-.370

I wouldnt figure Coach to get it, but some of y’all have to understand that the numbers you got with Bonds on steroids are a testament of sorts to how good Bonds was without steroids

It isnt 756 that’s gonna define Bonds. Nobody has to recognize him as home run king. Get over quantitative stats

As for Coach line that I dont want the truth. Nice, now you’re Jack Nicolson?

Coach, you asked if it would be baseball or barbs. You cant even come up with a mildly funny barb.

Go practice in front of the mirror and let your mom/sister critique your performance

Good lord you’re dumb

By Rory

April 29, 2007 7:39 AM | Link to this

Coach, as for saying that Prado did better than KJ in spring training, that’s not exactly true. Believe it or not, spring training stats don’t mean a whole lot to baseball people who know what they are looking at. For example, in 1989, I remember thinking that I did not understand why the national media was in love with Ken Griffey, Jr. and not wild about Roberto Kelly. Both were young players essentially in their rookie years that year. Griffey’s line was .264, .329, .420, 16 stolen bases, 16 homers, 61 RBIs. Roberto Kelly’s line that same year was .302, .369, .417 with 35 stolen bases, 9 homers, 48 RBIs. Looked very similar to my 13 year old eyes at that time. Did not understand all the Junior fuss. Of course, I was not a scout who could just see the talent oozing out of Griffey in a way that they did not see it in Roberto Kelly who was also pretty talented but nowhere near the Griffey level of talent. That’s why you can’t put too much stock into stats, especially spring training, because these scouts often see things that fans do not. That is why KJ looked better at second base to the Braves than Prado.

By serbok

April 29, 2007 7:39 AM | Link to this

mornin guys~I just have this strange feeling~that coach’s LIfetime partner took over his computer and well~ nuff said of that// ~ I always wondered about that guy~it seemed as tho he was making half a*******ed valid posts~that I could not find any agreement with~ but was willing to entertain~~but now~ I think he is one wave short of a shipwreck~knitting with only one needle? or maybe he thinks he is truley a bananna Tree? Then again??????????????????? surely not!!!! it couldnt be Bobby Cox? nah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By serbok

April 29, 2007 7:56 AM | Link to this

just my 2 cents worth here At one time I thought Barry Bonds would retire after breaking ruth’s record and stop short of the Hammer’s out of some sort of respect I guess~ I should have known better` I wonder just How proud his godfather really is? If anyones a coward it is willie Mays for not standing up! And if he doesnt have the fastballs to standup in public~he shoulda counseled The monster on when to have retired~~ The whole thing just makes me sick! YEAH Willie Mays~ another true american icon:o(

By serbok

April 29, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

20 days to roger and counting:o)

By serbok

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

Then again~ to give Mays the benefit of the doubt~ maybe he did~ and thew Monster just grunted~

By T 2 the D

April 29, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

DOB, what’s lastest on Tanyon S.?

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 29, 2007 8:43 AM | Link to this

DOB - i really don’t want to side against you in the exchanges b/w you and Coach, and i’m not, but you said that redman’s “OK start” was the one against the cubs? that’s not really what it sounds like in the quote:

He’s made four starts, two of which were terrible, one OK, the other a quality start in which he lasted 7-1/3 innings and allowed three runs, and the Braves were shut out.

here’s what i perceived that quote to mean: “2 of which were terrible”: both games vs. marlins “one OK”: the home opener vs. the mets (5.2 ip, 9 hits, 5 runs, 1 walk, 2 Ks) “the other a quality start…Braves were shut out”: obviously, that’s the one against the cubs.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 29, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Good morning all, The Gnats let us down yesterday. Like Chipper said, somebody besides the Braves has to be able to beat the Mets and they sure slipped the hook last night.

Do we venture to guess the score today or just watch the NASCAR race and be done with it? Davies really better hope he is not walking people because that in conjunction with that flat batting practice fastball is going to really cause his ERA to hit a “Rockie Mountain High”

By T 2 the D

April 29, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this

what’s lastest? Sorry, way too much BBQ / blues / beer last night…

By Gil in Mechanicsville

April 29, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Oh, and Robert… You said Bonds might be the best player of your generation… I feel sorry for “YOUR” generation…

By Steve from OH

April 29, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

DOB, is Tanyon Sturtze guaranteed a spot in the pen? If so, who goes down when he and Paronto are healthy?

By raindawg722

April 29, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

I agree that 1 for last 13 is nothing to worry about with McCann (or anyone else) normally. However, that stretch does seem to coincide with him getting hit in the hand (I think it was the left hand) last weekend. I hope that hand is okay because if your hands aren’t okay then you can’t hit. And since he is a catcher and that is his mitt hand he can’t rest it while he’s playing. I am not saying that something IS wrong with his hand but I could imagine McCann not saying anything about it if it were bothering him because he’s a gamer and he wants to play. So, to summarize, 1 for 13 with a healthy hand is nothing to worry about, but IF something is wrong with that hand , then 1 for 13 might be something to worry about.

By Lew

April 29, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Rory-You’re absolutely right about Spring Training stats. It was nice that Hudson looked like he was keeping the ball down and had his sinker working, but look at Langerhans. He was tearing it up and now he has looked lost at the plate. Every single year, players do great at ST and lousy once the season starts and vice versa. It is what it is-which is Spring TRAINING. It’s a time when you work on strengthening your arm or your swing. Nothing else. I seem to remember a couple of years ago, Andruw tore the cover off the ball and then immediately slumped on starting the year. Happens all the time-that’s why the stats don’t count as anything. A lot of the players constantly mentioned as absolute necessities to replace players on the Braves’ roster have damn little or no ML experience. Some may think they are better options, but how many times have players with great minor league stats come up top the bigs and bombed? They need to develop at a normal rate and not be thrown into the fire. If they come up and hit like Langerhans, then you (not you Rory, you seemingly have sense) will eat them up too. Patience, my grasshoppers, patience. We are still in first. All will be well with your assorted worlds.

By N8

April 29, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

A few thoughts.

1) WOW! DOB and Coach “going at it”. I LOVE IT!! Anything to take some of the “heat” off of me.

2) I guess Mr. Smoltz answered my “worries” about his location, in my 9:00 post last night. VERY nice outing for that hitter’s paradise of a ballpark

3) DOB, you are dead on with you’re assessment of Coors Field. VERY nice park. When that place first opened and the Rockies were on ther consecutive “sell out” streak, in the mid-90’s, probably wasn’t a more fun place to see a game (especially since the Braves hardly ever lost there, when I went). But the HR’s are the least of the issues of that park. Those damn bloops are what kill them, and other teams. Not that I’m suggesting where he should go (when he leaves), but Andruw would be PERFECT for that team in CF. He goes back on the ball well. He plays shallow enough, to take away “some” of those hits. Oh yeah, he’s got some power too. Can’t imagine how that park would mess up his swing though. Of wait….never mind.

4) As for Barroid, I’ve always given him a “flyer” on what he did before the 73 HR season. Sticking up for him, saying that even before the ridiculous HR totals, he was a HOF’r. Along with Griffey Jr., one of the best players in the 90’s…..HANDS DOWN. But now in light of this Mets dude and the new steroid claims, I have to even question some of what he did back then. SAD, SAD, SAD.

But anybody denying what Bonds meant to both the Pirates, and the Giants, is just plain ignorant. He SINGLE HANDEDLY carried the Giants to their 103 win season in 1993. Does anybody remember seeing highlights down the stretch that year of him winning GAME AFTER GAME in the clutch? I do. Take the 73 HR season and shove it “you know where”. I don’t care about it. I disregard it. It NEVER happened, as far as I’m concerned. Barry Bonds’ 1993 season, was his most impressive IMO.

By Robert

April 29, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

“I remember thinking that I did not understand why the national media was in love with Ken Griffey, Jr. and not wild about Roberto Kelly. Both were young players essentially in their rookie years that year. Griffey’s line was .264, .329, .420, 16 stolen bases, 16 homers, 61 RBIs. Roberto Kelly’s line that same year was .302, .369, .417 with 35 stolen bases, 9 homers, 48 RBIs. Looked very similar to my 13 year old eyes at that time.”

Context. Context. Context.

Kelly’s stat line is actually better. But Kelly was 24 years old, while Griffey was 19

“Oh, and Robert… You said Bonds might be the best player of your generation… I feel sorry for “YOUR” generation…”

The hatred directed towards Bonds reflects the ignorance of the haters. First of all, why hate Bonds more than anyone else? Did Bonds start the steroid craze? No. Bonds may have lied, but is he deserving of more bile than McGwire, who had a golden opp. to help set things “right” (if they really were wrong), Palmiero, who lied and scolded us at the same time, or Sosa, whose “rice, chicken, and beans, beans, rice, and chicken, or chicken, beans ,and rice line is about as old as the ring in Coach’s underwear.

Steroids were not illegal in pro baseball until the past couple of years. Neither was HGH.

There’s a goodly percentage of y’all who go gaga over quantitative stas every darn day (how many times have I been told how many games Cox has won, with no regard for the rosters he has been given). Y’all wanted and continue to want big numbers. Big numbers is what it took to re-invigorate the game after the strike. But you want the big numbers to come from white guys who kiss babies, live at home with mom, and who get their strength from Wheaties, the Rocky Balboa workout, and maybe a can or two of Popeye’s spinach (provided its not tainted with EColi)

Can anybody here grasp that it is NOT whether Bonds ends up with 803 vs 756 vs 532 home runs that defines or is a measure of his greatness? Does anyone able to appreciate quantitative performance measures?

You take Barry Bonds, and plunk him down in any era - whether it be before he’d be allowed to play with the white guys, or whether it be when training consisted solely of chasing women, popping greenies, and frequant and 12oz arm curls, or whether it be when the mound was higher and the batting averages lower,or whether it be when half the league is on the juice and he would be, for an extended period of time, one of the standout players in the game

His rank among his peers and the extended period of time for which he excelled among his peers is what identifies/defines him as elite of the elite -

Gil, you can join Lew, Scalp Em, and Coach - a frickin barbershop quartet with the collective IQ of a retarded turnip

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Steve from Ohio, they’ll worry about that WHEN Sturtze and Paronto are healthy. Paronto should be relatively soon, another couple weeks (assuming he does a brief minor league rehab stint; sooner if he doesn’t), but Sturtze is probably still a month away. Hasn’t begun a rehab stint yet, and he’ll need a pretty significant one.

By Robert

April 29, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

“Robert: Hey, I guess if we just hit like gangbusters, we are gonna make BC look good no matter what. I guess if we win it all, then you might have to put on a pot of crow? “

Um Wayne - Not exactly. If we keep hitting great, we’ll keep winning a lot of games. To morons, that might make Cox look great. But it wouldnt mean he was doing anything to win games

Put another way - We’d win a lot of games, but maybe with a different manager and us hitting the same, we’d win all those games and Thursday night’s fiasco too

Now, if we hit our way to a WS title, then I’d lose a bet with Grinch. But we’ve looked better than this and failed miserably

This team right now reminds me a little of the Falcons. Hear me out. Their pride got wounded by last year, so they have come out smoking in the first quarter, marched down the field, and scored a TD on their first possession. Falcons had a way of doing that, and then I guess having showed everyone how good they were, they;d revert to their lacksadaisical ways the rest of the game. We’d win the first 4 minutes 7-0, and lose the game 24-10

Talk to me in late July about whether this team has realistic playoff chances. Even if they make the playoffs, one giveaway like Thursday would be all that was needed to tip a posteseason series to the other team.

We won a WS in 1995 when the pitching ran the table three times in a row.

COULD the hitting run the table that way this year? Sure. Every now and then the horn bet is a winner on the craps table. If it hits, it doesnt mean my philosophy isnt the money maker in the long run

By N8

April 29, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Lew

Very nice points. But even you have to see that when you’ve got a guy hitting .056 after the first MONTH of the season, that it can’t get much worse, can it?

I mean, who saw Chuck Thomas coming? Francoeur hit better with Atlanta than he had at in the minors before his call up.

I’m not saying that Jones or Blanco would be sure fire improvements over Langerhans. I’m just saying, at this point, how BAD would they have to be, to be considered worse? Defense or not. Just talking about the “automatic out” portion of Langerhans’ game.

Keep in mind, this is coming for me (Mr. Pessimist), who happened to be all for playing Langerhans EVERYDAY based on his defense. Though I have to admit, I figured he’d hit about .260 to .280 with about 15-20 HR and 60-80 RBI. As it turns out, those numbers look like a pipe dream at this point.

He’ll be lucky to end up with a .250 batting average, with about 10 HR and 35-40 RBI. Which is totally unacceptable, no matter how good his defense is. All winter DOB, expressed that the Braves don’t have much interest in bringing up “on base maching” Gregor Blanco, due to his total lack of power. I get it, really I do. But at what point do we replace a guy with no power THAT CAN’T GET ON BASE, with a guy with no power that can? I’m sure Langerhans is a better defensive LF than Blanco, but from the way it sounds, with Blanco’s speed, he can’t be that bad out there.

Time to pull the plug on the Langerhans experiment, IMO. For the record, I have TOTALLY been on the KJ bandwagon ALL WINTER. Always thought he’d be a better hitter (and leadoff man) than Giles. So don’t lump me into the “I bet you wanted to dump KJ two weeks ago” crowd. I wasn’t part of it.

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Daybed, thanks for pointing that out. late night, and really was tired of coach’s davies/redman spewing and all. Yes, the Cubs start was the good one. The “OK” start was the home opener vs. Mets April 6, when he took a 2-1 lead to the sixth inning, then was charged with four runs in the sixth. He came out in that inning after giving up a double, a bloop opp-field single, an single through the left side of the infield. Villarreal replaced him and promptly gave up a triple to the next batter, Jose Reyes.

Again, not defending Redman, who I’ve ripped pretty harshly every time he’s pitched poorly, and plenty of times between, too. He’s been lousy overall. Just being accurate and pointing out he hasn’t been godawful every time.

All the players agreed that night he wasn’t bad, that night against Mets. As I said, in two of his four starts, he’s been terrible.

My whole point, and I’ll make it again: Has he really been worse than a guy who’s 1-6 with a 10.55 ERA and .375 opponents’ average in his past 11 starts, with almost as many walks (31) as strikeouts (35) in 42-2/3 innings in that span? That’s Davies.

And if he wasn’t a young guy from Atlanta who we all like, I wonder if any of us could possibly defend that absurdly bad numbers Davies has put up.

By Robert

April 29, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Coors Field - As either Young or Crippen once said “What a view, what a view”

By N8

April 29, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

TOTALLY OFF TOPIC - But ESPN is reporting that the NE Patriots have acquired Randy Moss.

Hmmmm.

By Rory

April 29, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Robert: I will agree with you without question that Bonds is the greatest player of his generation. But what comes with being the greatest player of your generation is also the weight of being the defining player of the generation. When that era is good, you get all the kudos as the champion of the glory years. The vice versa is also true.

I agree that Bonds was far superior to any other player over the past 25 or 30 years. I think he started taking steroids in 1998 because it drove him out of his mind that Sosa and Big Mac were putting up better numbers and getting all the acclaim even though he had been far superior to those guys throughout his MLB career, minor league career, and, with McGwire, their college years. Pride, ego, money and all that fueled him.

The problem really became was that on steroids, he made it too obvious with his body and with his statistical performance. He made it so obscene because he was that good. And I think that Bonds was the final straw in the eyes of the media and the fans because of his stature and his ability. The criticism might have something to do with race to a small degree to a small fraction of losers out there. BUT I think the attack on Bonds has more to do with exactly what you say: He is by far the greatest player of his generation. “Heavy weighs the crown.”

If Chipper Jones or Smoltz or Andruw or Frenchy or McCann or Mike Vick or Dominque go AWOL on a drug binge, this town would become a circus with the firestorm that would be created. If Willy Aybar disappears in a drug den however, people are annoyed and miffed, but it is pretty much treated with a sigh, roll of the eyes, and yawn.

Just look at Chipper and the silly Hooter’s thing. Was that racial? No! Was the firestorm out of that more than a tad bit too much? Obviously. But heavy weighs the crown. Hell, it is almost 10 years later, and people still reference the Hooter’s thing at least once a week on this blog (as I myself have just done).

When you are the greatest player of your team or generation, you typically become the face of your franchise and generation, with all that is good, great, bad, and awful that comes with having those titles and that stature.

By Steve from OH

April 29, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

DOB, great point about Davies…however, I would prefer to keep him up over Redman because he’s young and has room to improve, where Redman seems to be “past his prime” so to speak (even if this bad stretch is a bit of an anomaly).

By Lew

April 29, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Nathan-The point of my post was not Langerhans, but the vagueries of performance at Spring Training. I used Langerhans as an example of having a great Spring and then falling off dramaticaly during the regular season. I was not making a case for him remaining in the lineup. As far as that goes, I will no longer p!ss into the wind and suggest he get more playing time, even though that is all that will ever pull him out of his hitting doldrums-which is all I have ever claimed, other than he is NOT an .050 hitter, which I still contend. You really need to take a breath and actually comprehend what you read, Dude.

By tyyosh

April 29, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Wow, Cards reliever Josh Hancock was killed this morning in an accident. Their game is cancelled. Very sad.

By Lew

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

Robert-I have an IQ of a retarded turnip because I think you’re a broken record with your rants about Bobby Cox? I got news for you, you overblown bag of hot air, it would take a lot more than you and your theories to dumb me down to your level. Hee Haw, your own self-a*******hole.

By ElbravoX

April 29, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

DOB- We all do not like Davies. There you go again. “We” have not drank the cool aid yet. Today, he’ll give up an easy six.

By The Grinch

April 29, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Rory, good 11:35. While I don’t like Bonds AT ALL, and didn’t long before the steroids thing, I’ll agree with you and Robert about how good he was/is.

N8, I have little doubt that barring injuries, New England will win the super bowl. They’ve already won three recently without a receiver, now they have two and the rest of the team’s better as well.

Interesting. The entire blog has finally figured out Coach is an arrogant, smarmy, self-righteous douchebag. The American people can be snowed under for a while, but keep ramming the obvious down their throat long enough and they’ll eventually catch on. :-)

Wayne, good to have you back.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

April 29, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Grinch,

What do you think about the Falcons picks? (Namely the two Razorbacks) Y’all gonna learn how to call the Hogs in Georgia, now?

By MBATL

April 29, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

Can anyone tell me if I’ve got this right… I’m gonna use Langerhans as the example, but the same would apply to Redman, or any other “out of options” player:

If the Braves waived Ryan, other teams would have 3 days to claim him; if they did so, they’d have to keep him on the 25-man for the season, so it’s a pretty big commitment for the other team.

But, even if he was claimed, the Braves would have the option to “rescind” the waiver request, and bring him back to the Braves. We can only do that once per season (we could still waive him again later if we wanted, but couldn’t rescind it a second time if he was claimed). So you can effectively ‘test the waters’ once with a guy, to see if he’d be taken.

If NO team claimed Ryan, we could then assign him to the minors if we wanted, let him work on things, and bring him back later.

Is this right? If so, it might also make a lot of sense to try with Redman, so we’d have the option to send him down, but keep him at AAA just in case we needed him.

BTW, I’m in no hurry to give up on Langerhans or anyone else while we’ve got the best record in the NL, but it might just make sense to go ahead and put him on the waiver wire while he’s hitting .049… and try to get him cleared.

Of course, those things are supposedly “secret” so we wouldn’t necessarily know about it if it happened.

By Robert

April 29, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Rory - Good post. I do think that public sentiment has been anti-Bonds since long before he became embroiled in the steroids issue. Not saying he didnt bring some of it onto himself with his often surly manner. Not saying the greatest player of a generation bears some extra weight.

Lew - You have it backwards. You think I am nothing moe than a broekn record because you have the IQ of a retarded turnip. Now go back to the couch, have another Twinkie, and decide which of the Fearsome Foursome is in the barrel today. Look at the bright side. Y’all get free sex three days out of four

By Rory

April 29, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

The Falcons got themselves a Bulldawg! Milner might be a good backup to Crump. Gimme more Bulldawgs. Hell, even gimme a few of the bulldogs of the Vick family - they sound a whole lot tougher than anyone who may own them up to this point in their sad lives.

By Daybed Wagmoe

April 29, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

yeah, redman has been pretty bad this year, with the exceptions of the mets and cubs games. against a lineup like the mets, he actually held his own…maybe he has a thing similar to what oliver perez has — you know, bad against everyone else, great vs. the braves; he’s bad against the marlins (those 2 starts have been his awful ones), and, um, a little better against other teams, i guess…

anyway, i’m a little nervous for davies today. i hope that smoltz is giving him some words of wisom, like “you’re going to give up runs today in this ballpark, but keep at it because our team is probably going to give you some good support.” i just hope that davies doesn’t lose his cool if he gives up 3 or 4 runs.

langerhans actually showed a little improvement yesterday, i thought. reaching on an error (tulowitski made a good play just to get to that ball), then working a walk after being down 0-2. still, it’s hard to defend a .206 (or whatever it is) average since the middle of last april.

By Lew

April 29, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

MBATL- I believe you’re correct on most points, but I think the part about keeping him on the 25 man roster for the season applies only to Rule 5 draftees. I’m not positive on this point, but I’m pretty sure it is the case. As far as rescinding the waivers, I only think that would be done in the case of players like Andruw last year at the trade deadline. Were the Braves to decide on putting Redman or Ryan on waivers, I doubt they would rescind the deal. I also believe someone would pick up either player.

By Epinephrine

April 29, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Dave-you may have already answered this earlier, but if so I haven’t seen it-

Do we have any update on Boyer? I know he is down with an oblique strain, but I haven’t heard any time table as to when he might be expected back in Richmond.

By The Grinch

April 29, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Like ‘em both, Hillbilly (tha Hogs). Didn’t see either of them play much in college but their highlight reels were impressive and they fit areas of need. Anderson replaces Kerney. Houston plugs in opposite Hall now and lets Williams move to safety. Makes for a hard, pipe-hittin’ a$$ secondary. Really like the guard we got from Texas; should provide a huge boost to the running game. And finally just picked a Dawg in the 4th round (Milner, who looks to be the heir apparent to Alge Crumpler). Now, baseball…Renteria’s quietly putting together a helluva season to this point. I doubt Langy would clear waivers; someone probably needs a late inning defensive replacement worse than we do. ElbravoX, I’ve avoided that particular kool-aid for quite a while now. I’d LOVE to see Davies do well, but methinks he is a wuss.

By Lew

April 29, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Robert-Your pscychoses are well documented. One of the prime indicators of insanity is keeping to the same modus operundi and expecting events to turn out differently. This pretty much defines you and your completely unsubstantiated rants, which, in the long run, are nothing but personal theories. There are few other advocates for your running line of equine excrement, yet you continue your incessant braying. I reccommend to Nathan a bit of medication, upon occasion-maybe some Welbutrin or Ritalin to calm himself down. For you, however, I would definitely suggest some serious Psychological therapy and a course of something stronger-say, Torazine (it would at least shut you up for a time). The thing you need to realize is that there are two types of a*******holes in the world, comprising 100% of the population. The Type 1 A*******hole is much like myself, Grinch, and even Nathan. We realize we’re a*******holes, revel in the fact and fail to take ourselves too seriously. You however are a Type 2 a*******hole. You either don’t recognize your own pathology or refuse to acknowledge the possibliity , at the very least. The Type 2 is much more dangerous because they take themselves VERY seriously. The Type 2 is likely to think everyone else is a reflection of their own neuroses and psychoses, while exempting themselves from any such definition. They are they type who do serious damage to others, right before they blow their own brains out. Please get help before you hurt someone.

By MBATL

April 29, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Lew, makes sense. Thanks. Just trying to figure out the best way to keep our options open…

Hillbilly, I’m stoked about both of the Falcons’ new ‘hogs. And though I’m a bigtime Dawg fan, not too sure about Milner. I had to bury 2 TVs and 1 beloved family pet after Milner drops last year… but hey, I’ll pull for him, of course.

By Lew

April 29, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Grinch-I was talking to Comcast Cable the other day on an unrelated topic, but they told me that due to the finagling on the Extra Innings deal, the NFL package may no longer be exclusive to Direct TV this season. That means I can get all my Bucs games. I’ll be more than happy to talk smack after I start watching football again. You had a peaceful winter last year. Won’t be that way this time around.

By JasonInMaine

April 29, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Any chance Sturtze would be conditioned to a starter? I know when the Skanks had injury issues in the past, they turned to him for a few starts here and there. With the well documented troubles at the back end of our rotation…

Regards,

Jason

By dunwoody in denver

April 29, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

So Dave, how you like the weather here today? 85 degrees, no humidity, no smog, nice breeze. I moved to Denver from Atlanta 4 years ago; even though we had kind of a rough winter (well, a rough 2 months), I wouldn’t trade late-April thru Mid-October here for anything. I think I see the start of a trend, too; in the last 3 weeks I’ve seen at least 10 Georgia plates. Still love the Braves, although Coors has got the Ted beat hands down…

By David O'Brien

April 29, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Gonna try to do a quick blog, but wanted to put this stuff up first:

McCann’s getting a rest today _ and no, not because of his hand, which is fine. Just hasn’t gotten any days off, which all catchers get. By the way, he hit a ball to the wall last night in the fifth inning, missed a homer by, oh, two feet….

Paronto’s going on rehab monday and wednesday, will be activated then if no setbacks….

Steve from Ohio, that was part of my point about Davies _ I don’t know why some equate sending him down (if that were to happen) with somehow losing him. He’s got options, so you have the flexibility of sending him down and not losing him.

And if that little setback, if some might suggest want to call it that, would harm him psychologically … well, wouldn’t going 1-6 with an 10.55 ERA and .375 opponents’ average in his past 11 starts be even more potentially damaging to one’s psyche than being sent to Richmond and probalby dominating Triple-A hitters for a month or so?

By N8

April 29, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

MBATL

You know I enjoy “jabbing” with you, but the following was you #3 reason to support Langerhans:

“Braves are 8-1 in games he’s started; he’s not hurting us too bad so far”

COME ON!!! That’s about like saying that I’m responsible for the sun coming up everyday, because everyday of my life the sun has come up!

Other than the nice catch that pretty much saved the game last week, he has done NOTHING to help us win a game, and pretty much done all he can to (not purposely of course), make it harder for us to win those 8 games. We have won DESPITE what Langerhans has offered us this year, not BECAUSE of it.

By Robert

April 29, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Lew - You aint no physician, so the only reason you’d be familiar with those medications you listed would be because you’ve been on them at some point

You just posted half a tome in response to a sarcastic barb. I wonder how much you’d write if you took yourself too seriously

I do, however, like this part of your post

“One of the prime indicators of insanity is keeping to the same modus operundi and expecting events to turn out differently”

Again, as with Coach, the difficulty will lie in seeing if you can be made to understand what you just said. Think real hard about this. Have ANOTHER Twinkie before you do, so that your brain gets the glucose it needs. When the little lightbulb between your ears stops flickering, but before the filament burns, think. Has Cox been handling things the same way for years and years and years.

Oh. And I hate to break this to you. But your smoking 3 packs a day for 33 years proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are stupid.

And the underlying reason that you are fat is that you eat too much.

Coach says it’s your day in the barrel. So get some Listerine, pucker your lips, and let the three guys enjoy the game

By The Retarded Turnip

April 29, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Maybe I am a little slow but I didn’t just fall off the truck…… Ever think that perhaps the greater player was none of those you mentioned. Why does it always have to be someone who hits the long ball?

Does it have to be illegal to be wrong? I was a union director for 20 years so I know all about playing the system. However, there comes a time when the truth is known and it shall set you free.

Believe what you wish Robert, you cannot change facts, only governments are allowed to do that…… ROFLMAO….

By N8

April 29, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Lew I comprehended what I read just fine. You stated:

“A lot of the players constantly mentioned as absolute necessities to replace players on the Braves’ roster have damn little or no ML experience. Some may think they are better options, but how many times have players with great minor league stats come up top the bigs and bombed?”

Help me out if I’m not “comprehending” this correctly. But I’ll assume you’re talking about guys like Blanco, Jones, Escobar, etc…. right? So if I were to suggest we would be better off AT LEAST TRYING OUR CHANCES with Blanco or Jones INSTEAD of the .056 hitting Langerhans, this would fall right in line with what you are/were talking about right?

Don’t lecture me about comprehending what you are talking about, when it’s quite possible that you didn’t comprehend what it was that you wrote. LOL!

I wasn’t “ragging” on you about Langerhans and your stance on him. Just stating that, while I may or may not agree with you about Spring Training stats (which I do, btw), sometimes, you just have to gamble.

Just the way that Bobby is with our season, by keeping Langerhans, in the lineup.

I’m afraid, at some point it’s gonna come back to haunt us.

By MBATL

April 29, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

N8, maybe you are responsible for the sun coming up!

Hey, it was real hard coming up with TEN reasons to support a .050 hitter. Gimme a break!

By N8