AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > April > 29 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USWish you were here … and be nice!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
With this blog today I feel like a New Orleans cop on horseback, moving in to disperse an unruly crowd (not that I ever witnessed that up close and personal or anything, not during JazzFest a decade ago, or anything like that….)
So much tension on the last blog, you’d never know you folks follow a team that was in first place before today with a 15-8 record, with the most road wins (nine) in the majors.
But hey, when you’re engaged in heated debate over how to better the back end of the starting rotation, like certain individuals here, then I can understand how you wouldn’t see the forest for the trees.
But anyway … hey, need to know if it’s worth the time of writing a new blog on a Sunday afternoon, when you all aren’t in the office jabbering online. Are there enough Braves/Man In Black blog denizens at homes or on weekend jobs or whatever to make it worth the time to post a new blog once on the weekends, either Saturday or Sunday, so the other one doesn’t sit there from Friday to Monday?
Show by responding with plenty of posts, please. Flood this thing. That’s the only way I’ll know. And let’s try to make them good posts, leaving some of yesterday’s garbage behind (but obviously continuing any relevant discussions that might actually be non-offensive to a good portion of the audience).
I don’t know what it’s like where you all are, but I’m telling you, there can’t possibly be nicer weather that what I’m in right now on this Sunday afternoon in Denver, where it’s about 80 degrees, 20-percent or so humidity, and not a cloud in the sky. Absolutely stunning weather, and perfect for ‘ball.
Let’s hope Kyle Davies and the lads make it a swell afternoon at the ‘yard.
Paronto on rehab assignment: In case you missed my post on the other blog an hour ago, Chad Paronto’s going to do a brief rehab assignment with Class A Rome on Monday and Ol’ Double-A Miss on Wednesday, after which he’ll be activated from the DL and rejoin the bullpen. The Braves will obviously be glad to get him back; he’s a big part of the ‘pen, literally and figuratively.
Funny scene yesterday, when Paronto was walking back from the weight room here at Coors Field, and me and another guy were standing by the clubhouse door. “Just lifted the whole weight room,” said Paronto, who is the size of a freezer.
McCann gets day off: Brian McCann is out of the lineup today, only the fourth game (in 24) that the catcher hasn’t started behind the plate. When I asked Bobby Cox if McCann was at all sluggish or needed a rest, he looked at me like I had two heads. As Bobby correctly pointed out, McCann is hitting balls as hard as ever, including one that was caught at the center-field wall Saturday.
He’s 1-for-13 in his past three games, but McCann was 5-for-13 with four doubles in the first three games of the trip, and also had a two-RBI game at Florida in the middle. He’s fine. The finger he hurt last weekend isn’t an issue, and McCann is still hitting .295 with 10 extra-base hits and 13 RBIs.
Chipper feeling … well, OK, what’s a synonym for “chipper?”… He’s feeling good, relatively speaking. Has a bit of tightness in his left thigh, apparently, but not anything to keep him out of the lineup.
And when I entered the clubhouse this morning, old Hoss was playing on a big rubber exercise ball like a little kid. Bunch of Braves were watching ESPN on the big screen hanging in the middle of the clubhouse, and Chipper puts the ball down in front of them and runs and dives on it, grinning like a kid.
He’s played every game, and all but a couple of innings all season. Cox said he won’t even let him take him out for a pinch-runner, so determined is the third baseman to keep playing and contributing.
And folks, he’s contributing in a huge way: Entering today, Chipper’s batting .319 with seven doubles, a triple, a team-high seven homers, 16 RBIs, a .421 OBP and a gaudy .648 slugging percentage.
He’s third in the NL in slugging behind Bonds (.828) and Miguel Cabrera (.688), and Chipper’s fourth in OPS (1.069) behind those two and Aaron Rowand.
I was curious and looked up Chipper’s numbers since last summer. In 74 games since June 24 he’s hit .364 (102-for-280) with 23 doubles, three triples, 26 homers, 67 RBIs, 64 runs, 42 walks, a .446 OBP and a 1.192 OPS. Again, 74 games.
OK, game’s starting. Gotta go … A little music, maestro:
“STILL FEELING BLUE” by Gram Parsons
Time can pass and time can heal/But it don’t ever pass the way I feel
You went away a long time ago/And why you left I never knew
The lonely days and lonely nights/Guess the world knows I ain’t feelin’ right
And when you’re gone the hours pass so slow/And now I’m still feeling blue
And baby/Since you’ve walked out of my life
I never felt so low/Can’t help but wonder why you had to go
There are many girls but I can’t say/They come and go but still I feel this way
And ever since the day you said goodbye/No one treats me like you used to do
I hope you’re out and happy now/Doing up the town cause you know how
Every time I hear your name I want to die/And now I’m still feeling blue
All right
And baby/Since you’ve walked out of my life
I never felt so low/Can’t help but wonder why you had to go
I hope you’re out and happy now/Doing up the town cause you know how
Every time I hear your name I want to die/And now I’m still feeling blue
And now I’m still feeling blue
Services »
Comments
By braves fans
April 29, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this
we’re here, we cheer, get used to us!
By James
April 29, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
first
By Steve McP
April 29, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this
Nice blog DOB - defintely worth the time just for the anecdotes and general updates and also clears the decks of the rather vitriolic comments in the last one.
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
Afternoon denizens…
DOB, count me in on those that appreciate having a pristine blog on a sunny Sunday afternoon. Do you have any idea who the Braves will send down when Paronto is ready to go?
Sad news in St. Louis today. Cardinal reliever Josh Hitchcock was killed in a auto accident early this morning after pitching three innings in yesterday’s game with the Cubs. My thoughts go out to his family and the Cardinals and their fans today.
Davies was able to extract himself out of a mini jam in the first. It helped that Taveras slid short of the bag at second on the steal attempt.
Nice homer by Thor in the bottom half of the first. Always nice getting out on top early.
I will say this about ‘The Clear’. Bonds pre-juiced resume is good enough for him to make the HOF. Not ready to give accolades other than that at this point, but it’s very clear to me (pardon the pun) that his ticket to Cooperstown was already punched by his body of work in Pittsburgh and in the early years in San Francisco.
By Curt
April 29, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
DOB
As you look at the upcoming games when do you think the cutoff point will be for replacing one of the guys on our back end?
And as for Chipper: I am so excited that he is finally not hindered by his feet, at least for the time being, and is showing that when he is healthy he is still one of the best hitters in baseball and is doing a heck of a job down in the hot corner as well!
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
If you watch Davies’ left leg on his follow through, you can see that it is stiff and straight. He is pivoting his entire body over that leg, and I have to think that’s why he is constantly high in the zone.
I really think he needs some time in Richmond to develop a whole new approach.
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
You CANNOT walk three of the first six guys you face at Coors Field and expect to survive.
By N8
April 29, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this
Synonym for Chipper? How about Cheery?
Glad to see Kyle didn’t prove me “wrong” by coming out in the second inning and not walking people.
I don’t care how good a kid’s “stuff” is. If he doesn’t have command of it (see Rick Ankiel), he’s got NO FUTURE in the big leagues.
I’ve been thinking that the new knickname for Kyle should be Kyle “walk an inning” Davies. Nothing too creative, just a new twiest on the “Balk a day” Bob Davidson.
Go get him Bobby.
What’s a synonym for Sh*tty?
By ElbravoX
April 29, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
This guy SUCKS.
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
55 pitches to get 4 outs. The thing worth watching is how Villareal does.
By N8
April 29, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
Hmmmm. I wonder if standing in the sun for for 20 minutes while your pitcher pretty much walks the bases loaded, had anything to do with Francoeur’s concentration being off on that basehit, allowing the runner to reach 3rd.
Old saying that still holds true:
You can’t defend walks. PERIOD.
Remember what I said about Redman/Davies on the other blog? FORGET I SAID IT. Davies has ZERO upside, unless MLB is looking for somebody to throw to the hitters for the HR Derby at the All-Star games for the next 2 decades.
YIKES.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
my goodness. i won’t make fun of the pitcher because he is a local kid with family and friends who might read this. but my goodness
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this
yeah, I can see where this is clearly a better option than Redman. i see what some of you are saying (excuse me, i just choked on this pork chili i’m eating for lunch)
By akirell
April 29, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
I had a feeling things would implode in this inning.
By N8
April 29, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
“What’s a synonym for Shtty?”*
I just looked it up online, all I could find is “Davies”.
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this
To me the most telling sequence so far today was the at bat by Taveras. Davies had just struck out Cook and went 0-2 on Taveras. Bryan Pena was setting up for a pitch well outside and Davies floats one over the outer edge of the plate that gets smacked into right.
By N8
April 29, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
“I really think he needs some time in Richmond to develop a whole new approach.”
You mean like maybe playing LF?
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
Afer that Helton walk, it’s 61 pitches and five outs recorded for Davies
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Oh, forgot to add my .02 on Chipper.
To see him coming out like he has so far this year, contribute and be healthy is wonderful news. Especially when you take into account the issues we’re having with Aybar to this point.
By Brent
April 29, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
3 years ago, when Davies came up, his control was not like this. I’m starting to think McDowell is not recognizing defects in deliveries in some of our pitchers. There is no reason why a guy who has been pitching his entire life cannot find the strike zone.
It’s not like he is missing by a few inches here. He is way off. And he’s missing with his fastball, the pitch he should be most comfortable with when he needs a strike. There must be something mechanical going on with him. I can think of no other reason why his control has gotten worse with more experience.
By zimo z
April 29, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
zimo z presents: Tonight on TBS
After the game:
Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead(armed) (1995)
Andy Garcia is Kyle “Save-me” Davies a would-be pitcher on his last legs in the big leagues. He is about to disappear but it is not clear who will replace him. (Rated R for excessive violence).
By KC
April 29, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Okay, we’ve seen enough of Davies. Send him down to richmond and call up Dan Smith!!!!
Dan Smith so far at AA (in 4 starts/22 innings): 3-1, 1.64 ERA… 4 walks, 23 strikouts, WHIP-0.91
By Joshhh
April 29, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
I am sooo tired of WALKS!! Davies needs to definitely work on his command. It is terrible. I think Bobby should go out there and say “Hey guess what? We’re playing the ROCKIES! Not the Mets! So just throw a freakin strike!” Come on Davies! Show us that you’re a Major League Pitcher. I’m tired of losing dumb games like this. CORMIER!! Come baaack!!
By Joshhh
April 29, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
I am sooo tired of WALKS!! Davies needs to definitely work on his command. It is terrible. I think Bobby should go out there and say “Hey guess what? We’re playing the ROCKIES! Not the Mets! So just throw a freakin strike!” Come on Davies! Show us that you’re a Major League Pitcher. I’m tired of losing dumb games like this. CORMIER!! Come baaack!!
By Rory
April 29, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Langerhans with a hit. Lew is crying right now.
By bergian
April 29, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
Ryan got a hit!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YIPPIEEE!!! Looks like a .300 hitter on that one!
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this
langerhans just snapped an 0-for-29 skid with that double, his first extra-base hit of the season and third hit of any kind (in 42 at-bats)
By Joshhh
April 29, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
Whoa sorry about the double post guys!
By KC
April 29, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
N8: You didn’t look hard enough. There are multiple definitions including Mark Redman and Ryan Langerhans.
By N8
April 29, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
Damn. Edgar is RIGHT ON everything, the way he is taking the ball up the middle. PERFECT approach for this ballpark. Many Braves could learn from him.
By Dale
April 29, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
This umps strike zone is the size of a postcard.
By The Grinch
April 29, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
N8, kudos on the 3:49. I hate to tell you (not you, Nate, but the majority of the rest of the blog) I told you so about Davies, but my GOD. Half the ugly stuff I said about him was in hopes he’d read the blog and get fired up. At this point, he’d be better off just flinging fastballs down the middle every pitch. At least we’d probably eventually get out of an inning. Yikes.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
Davies simply does not belong up here right now. After the game today he must be sent down and either Villareal placed into the rotation or somebody like Lerew called up and the Braves just take a chance on him. To me Davies is the pitching version of Langerhans. He pitches with no confidence.
Hopefully, everything goes well with Paronto so Davies can be optioned the hell out of here.
We are lucky its only 4-1!
By N8
April 29, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
KC*
Well said.
By chipdip
April 29, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
davies cannot pitch at the major league level….he sux!!
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this
I don’t understand why everyone talks as if Cormier is going to be some sort of savior. The guy has always been a reliever and has a career era of 5.72 - I mean come on let’s not pretend we have cy young or even charlie leibrandt coming back.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Davies just can’t keep his fastball below the shoulders. It’s gotta be a mechanical flaw…
By N8
April 29, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
“We are lucky its only 4-1!”
It’s early.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
Let’s get to 100 posts before 5 p.m. fellas. COME ON! Start typing away.
By N8
April 29, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
“This umps strike zone is the size of a postcard.”
Yeah. That’s Davies’ problem. Now THAT is funny.
It wouldn’t matter if his strikezone was the size of John Elway’s teeth, Davies STILL couldn’t hit the zone consistantly.
By Timothy J Bradley
April 29, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
I, for one, appreciate the Sunday pm blog. BTW I join the general consensus that neither Davies nor Redman is adequate. Trying to pick the better of the two is hurtin’ my head. Viva Villareal!
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
Another good rip by Thorman and another two-out RBI…
By N8
April 29, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
“Let’s get to 100 posts before 5 p.m. fellas. COME ON! Start typing away.”
NO PROBLEM.
Oh. You meant everybody?
I bet I can hit that total by 4:30 EDT.
By N8
April 29, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this
“I don’t understand why everyone talks as if Cormier is going to be some sort of savior. The guy has always been a reliever and has a career era of 5.72 - I mean come on let’s not pretend we have cy young or even charlie leibrandt coming back.”
He’s not a SAVIOR. But he’s also not Kyle Davies.
Enough said.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Is Wilson any closer to being able to play in left? The way I see it is put Wilson in left and Thorman at first against righties and then Wilson at first and Diaz in left against lefties and then just have langerhans on the bench for defense late in games. If Thorman keeps hitting and shows he can hit lefties, then eventually have Wilson and Thorman start everyday and trade Diaz to the Red Sox or something.
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this
Oh you will get no argument here in defense of Davies. The guy is a joke. There is nothing worse than walks for a defense and those seem to be Davies’ forte. Is there any chance we have some strong arm available in AAA?
By sri
April 29, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
this Maine guy is beginning to scare me.. DOB, what does Roger have to say about Davies? like Brent said earlier, Is Roger having trouble fixing Davies? the same with TP and Langy? Any info if they TP is giving some personal coaching lessons to Langy? Keep up the nice work!!
By Jick
April 29, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
Glad to see Thorman coming around. Our 1Bers now have more HRs and RBI than poor LaRoche in Pittsburgh, 3+1 and 9+2 vs. 3 and 10.
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
If we think today was brutal, wait until we see Redman against Cole Hamals on Tuesday.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this
Hilarious, N8. I have faith in you. You post ‘em almost as fast and as often as Davies walks ‘em.
By dunwoody in denver
April 29, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
Hey Dave, thanks for mentioning today’s weather here in your blog. It’s days like this which make me glad I moved here (even though I still miss a lot of things back home). I’d gladly take 2-3 big snowstorms a year to get 5 months of weather like this…Ya’ll can’t even imagine what 85 feels like with 15% humidity…After the game I’m going for a nice bike ride down by the river. Too bad ya’ll don’t have more bike paths; we have tons here…
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
Davies should get one more start. Bringing up Dan Smith, I don’t know about that.
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Davies has a “mechanical” flaw…
He would be better served as a mechanic than a major league pitcher. I have posted for a couple of years now…He will NEVER be good! Go ahead, call me what you will, say he is young, he’s got potential…yadda, yadda, yadda…
I would rather have Sturtze start when he comes back!
Have a good day.
Regards,
Jason
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Chipper is limping. Come on Thorman!!!!
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this
Here is the rally killer
By Rory
April 29, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
AND YE SHALL CALL HIM THOR!
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Another solid at bat by Thor and it brings us to within a run. Seems like he’s starting to really take advantage and look for a ball to hit and when he gets it, he’s attacking it.
Good work by Langerhans hitting Thor in with a sac fly.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
why the heck is mccann pinch hitting in the sixth inning with two outs and a man only on first? especially with pena hitting well today?
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
Rory, my thought exactly.
By The Grinch
April 29, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this
Eric, does that mean Hudson’s starting Wednesday? I went to the Braves website but couldn’t find out.
Dunwoody in Denver, I wish there WERE more bike paths here; I’m sick of those morons in their douchetastic spandex outfits riding down the middle of the road during rush hour. You’re not even allowed to run over them; they’ll put you in jail! Utter nonsense.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
Great AB by Langerhans, bringing in the tying run. Last 2 games, he’s looked pretty solid at the plate.
By Brent
April 29, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Grinch, Huddy on weds, then redman, then james.
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Great double play…..
Lets get some runs!!!!!
By Turnip
April 29, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
Great Race….. Oops.. wrong blog.. My bad… :-)
Looks like Thorman is coming into his own, now if Andruw will just get it together.
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
I’m curious…where are all those “we’re going to miss Marcus Giles sooooo much….KJ cannot play second base or hit leadoff” people at?? I haven’t heard from them since week 1!!!
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
DOB Do you think Bobby will do something similar to a “closer by committe”? I don’t mean that in the traditional sense…but make sure Wickman doesn’t pitch more than say, 3 times a week?
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Let the Bobby bashing begin! It would have been a double play anyway.
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
lol…wow, triple play
By Turnip
April 29, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
Shazam….triple play
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this
Wow, not just a triple play, but an unassisted triple play. Nothing you can do but tip your cap to Tulowitzki. The kid’s been sterling in the field today even before that play was made.
By N8
April 29, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
As much as a “rally killer” the triple play was (I guess a TP would be the ultimate rally killer, huh?), it was pretty cool to see something you don’t see everyday.
Just wish it would’ve been us turning it.
By The Grinch
April 29, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Brent. Looks like we lucked out, KC; I’d be p** if we had to see Redman or Davies.
JohnGTfan, that comment about Ball and Johnson on the Falcons blog was funny; you’re temporarily forgiven for liking Tech. :-)
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
freakin’ walks are KILLING us!
By N8
April 29, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this
Chip just said that if Moylan left a pitch up, Helton might hit it to Colorado Springs.
That wouldn’t be so bad, since Colorado Springs is SOUTH of Denver, thus making it nothing more than a really LONG foul ball.
Sorry, had to.
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this
Grinch I have to do something to stay sane after watching Reggie Ball for 4 years!!!
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this
With no one out??? What’s going on ???
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
you have a runner on 3rd with no outs yet we send A. Jones… that is just brilliant. Mark the missed opportunity. Horrible coaching…just horrible.
By Ricardo
April 29, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
DOB -
Pork chili - is that a Denver thing? Sounds interesting. Not a huge fan of Graham Parsons, but that’s OK. How about a little Mark Knofler some time?
By Brent
April 29, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
Never make the first out of the inning at third! that hurt
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
Tulowitzski is one heck of a shortstop
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
how do you get thrown out at home with no outs?
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Wow, don’t like making the first out at the plate like that, but Pena comes up big to give us the lead.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
Tell you what… If Francoeur keeps hitting to right field all year, Davies and Langerhans won’t even matter. Unbelievable how much better his approach is this year.
Got to say, I really don’t understand using McCann earlier either. I’m a big Cox supporter, but a few of the moves the last week have me scratching my head.
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
have I mentioned lately (everyday) that I cannot stand Ryan Langerhans
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this
I say we give Soriano a save opp. Gonzo in the 8th.
By P Dub Braves fan
April 29, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
amazing. I’m sure many of us on this blog have now seen two of the 12 unassisted triple plays live on tv, with this one and furcal’s a few years back.
By Curt
April 29, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
I think it is better to leave Soriano in his most familiar role, the setup man, and Gonzalez in his, the closer, if you are not going to use Wicky to close a particular game. I think that would just make both of them more comfortable.
By bergian
April 29, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
so…..is Soriano going 2 innings?
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
JohnGTFan, and how does he not get a double out of that hit (Andruw I’m talking about)? Simple _ his violent, wild swing left him literally on one knee at the end of his follow-through, so it takes him about a second or so longer to get out of the box from that position.
Good thing for him the Braves ended up getting the go-ahead run in that inning, because he could’ve cost them (still could if they come back to tie)
By flange1
April 29, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
Kelly Johnson is ON FIRE!
By serbok
April 29, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
DOB thanx for the title of this blog! every time i turn around and everywhere i am! It’s serendipity! Wish You WERE here! 20 days to go and I will be experiencing the man who wrote Wish You Were here! unfortunately david gilmour sang it~ but I’m sure Roger will overcome:o) I think we should stick with Soriano in the 9th
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this
Kelly Johnson again!!! My goodness. This is what a lot of us talked about during spring training…DON’T WORRY ABOUT GILES…his bat and glove will not be missed!!!!! AT ALL
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this
For all you old cheers fans here’s my Kelly song. Kelly,Kelly,Kelly,Kelly,Kelly,Kelly… !Kelly Johnson!!! thank you!! thank you very much!! I’m playing the green lounge thursday thru saturday.
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this
serbok, you’re one crazy diamond. that’s good.
By flange1
April 29, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Well let’s see what Wicky has in his tank today!
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
Why! Wickman??????????????????????? Bobby is setting the team up to be on one of those blooper shows! bloop to left, bloop to right~ and theres a drive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!way back! geez~ I hope that doesnt happen~ but if it does! it will be on bobby!
By bergian
April 29, 2007 6:03 PM | Link to this
is Bobby trying to hurt Wickman? man…stupid!
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this
WHY???????????????????????? All I can say is Why???????????????????????????????????????
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 6:06 PM | Link to this
He needs to take wickman out now - don’t let him walk the bases loaded and make the situation near impossible for the next guy
By Epinephrine
April 29, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this
What in the world is Wickman even doing in there?
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
He’s gasping for air no doubt about it.
By Righton
April 29, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
Say what you want to, something’s wrong with Wickman. Looks like he can’t breath. Needs to get check-up.
By flange1
April 29, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this
This hurts…
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 6:10 PM | Link to this
painful….. chris reitsma??
By Jibo
April 29, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this
I’m looking at the donkey in the dugout…where’s Robert.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this
Way to go Bobby! managerial genious!
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this
BC has misused Wickman lately,I don’t get it.Why in the name of Babe Ruth would he use him at altitude after what we saw last time?
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this
As pathetic as this has been by wickman to walk the bases loaded he has had some awful luck with these texas leaguers that have hurt him in his 2 blown saves - regardless he should have been taken out when he walked 2 batters but of course that makes too much sense - glad we use the shut down reliever(soriano) as a set up man…
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this
someone (how about the AJC) needs to call Bobby out on this one. Everyone except him knows that Wickman should have never been brought into this game.
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this
wow. fantastic timing Bobby, glad it took 7 batters for it to click that wickman isn’t going to get the job done
By Novice Ned
April 29, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this
Hmm, haven’t I seen this bullpen debacle before? And what team was that? Oh yeah, the Bravos.
2 set-up men who finished last season on DL and a closerwho is pushing 40 and about 3 bills aross the waistline.
Maybe we can sign Chris Reitsma?
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
this is just so unbelievable he doesnt even bring in gonzo?
As I’ve said b4~ Bobby is the best manager in baseball~ as long as he is watching the game~ We just need him as an ambassador to the players~everytime he tries to manage~ he screws up! The absolute worst manager I have ever seen during post season play~ now he’s carrying it over into the regular season! Wish the ump would toss him out of the game!
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
If Wicky wasn’t ready to pitch, he should’ve let Bobby and the staff know that… assuming he’s ready to play ball, you’ve got to give him the chance to get the save, which Bobby did. Didn’t work out. We’ll see from here…
By flange1
April 29, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
FRENCHY!!!!!
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
Frenchy man!!!! what a catch!!!
By bergian
April 29, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this
You know why people get so mad at Robert???? Cuz they know…deep down….he isn’t all wet. Bobby IS a great manager, who is like a great hitter that strikes out a lot. Right now, Bobby is like Adam Dunn striking out 5 times in a game…and its possible he will cost us the pennant with a stupid move like this!
By D-Cider
April 29, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
This time last year the Braves had 5 blown saves. They now have 3. Huge improvement. Gotta love Cox. He almost got up off his fat A$$ a couple of times but I guess those fake knees just can’t move him like they need to. Never know why he refuses take a reliever out when they cannot throw strikes. surprised Wikman didn’t groove one to Helton.
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
Two big defensive plays or this game is over. Pena makes the stop with his bare hand to keep Helton on third and Frenchy’s diving catch ends the inning.
By thathouguy
April 29, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
I’m watching the game on MLB.COM and they just showed Wickman’s numbers at Coors Field and they are awful. So this isn’t his first meltdown here. Cox should’ve known this and had Yates in there from the start.
By Brent
April 29, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
Frenchy saved the day- now lets win it in extras…
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
Yea….
Wickman is better than Wagner……..
By Tony Almeida
April 29, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this
and just think what the score would be had Andruw not made that boneheaded baserunning blunder…just sad
By Curt
April 29, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this
I tend to disagree with the rest of you. Bobby gave Wickman the day off and Wickman said he was fine and, being a veteran, told Bobby he was fine so Bobby has to take him at his word. I think he has gotten some unlucky breaks but Bobby should have taken him out after the 2 walks.
By chipdip
April 29, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this
wickman needs to lay off the friggin burgers before the game!!!!!!
By StingerSplash
April 29, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
For those having trouble spelling Francouer’s name, you can spell it this way: S-T-U-D. I think we’re starting to see what Thorman can do at the plate, but the troubles of Langerhans/Wilson are still troubling. And what in the world has gotten into Wickman? One bad outing is one thing. But the last three have been no great shakes for one of the steadier and more reliable relievers in the game.
By Shoeless Bob
April 29, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
Its time for Bobby to head on up to the animal farm and retire. Maybe the kids can win without cox help.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this
wow~ pich hitting for the awesome defensive left fielder in the 10th~ with 2 outs? wow~! Way to go Bobby! I get free baseball! would have rather had the win tho:o(
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this
Bringing in our closer to closewhen he didn’t say he couldn’t go and had rested a day, what a boneheaded move - couldn’t see any rational manager ever making that one…
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this
doubled off second….uggghhhh. leadoff double wasted
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
It is not Cox’s fault. Wickman always puts guys on base in the ninth. This time he got hurt with his walks.
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe we got doubled up on another hard hit line drive…that’s 2 or 3 runs robbed right there combined with Chipper’s triple play.
By Steven
April 29, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox is a Hall of Famer are you? Leave him alone, he is one of the greats all time. He stuck with Wickman becasue he is the Closer, he took him out when he saw fit. Bobby is the Skipper deal with it!
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this
MBATL I agree in part if Wick wasn’t ready he should have said so.That said he buck stops with the manager he’s paid to make the call and this was a bad one. GOOD MANSGER BAD CALL!!
By Me
April 29, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this
I’m appalled.
DOB: you know this is the second time he left the pitcher in too long. Just like Hudson on Wednesday, this is appalling. He should have gotten Wick out of there after the second batter.
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this
Some things aren’t meant to be. Chipper’s line shot, a foot or two either way, and we would probably have a W. Instead, triple play. Now Pena. Let’s not forget the Schnitker brain cramp, too.
By Mike S
April 29, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this
Mistake of the game not bunting with Thorman on 2nd base with no outs.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
Torrealba shoulda’ been tossed after that “bat swing” on being called out.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
It is beginning to look as if Gonzales might become the closer much sooner than we expected.
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
Another anti-Bobby barrage here is just absurd. Wickman said he could go and was rested. He was our closer in a save situation. Get your heads out of your asses.
By JohnGTfan
April 29, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this
Curt I understand what you’re saying, but Cox has been around long enough to know his players. All veterans are going to say they’re ready…especially if they’re “gamers” like Wickman. This isn’t about how he pitched. This is about Cox, by now, should know his players and he SHOULD HAVE KNOWN to give him another day or two.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
Wickman should never have pitched in the 9th~ If bobby had not tried to fix something that was not broken~ Soriano would have gotten the save~ CURT, Bobby is like our illustrious president~ G.W. Bush~ He IS the d-cider~ the heck with logic!
By Joe Fan
April 29, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this
Yall realize that in the next few days we may possibly be fielding 6 guys hitting over .300?!!
If McCann gets it going again and Thorman and Francour keep it up, I think we will see it with in the week.
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this
I agree MBATL, he could’ve easily clocked Pena with that thing as Pena stands up to toss it around. Take your strikeout like a man and go take your seat on the bench.
By Efrim
April 29, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth-
I agree.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
whats wrong with Bobby? I’m surprised Redman isnt pinch hitting for the pitcher~ arghhhhhhhhh
By Brent
April 29, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this
Stealth- agree completely. Bringing in the closer is the right move. Wick is our closer, he was rested and this was a closer situation. End of story.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
FA, like a lot of calls, this was a “bad one” only in retrospect. Bobby went with the closer, and the closer didn’t close.
I said earlier I was scratchin’ my head at some of Bobby’s decisions the last week, but this ain’t one of ‘em. We’ll just play it out from here, I guess.
By brian
April 29, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
Speaking of beautiful weather - just got back from Sunset beach. Of course I did not have the braves to watch as well, but the view I had more than made up for it.
Unfortunately I was completely out of the loop - what is the latest on Cormier’s arm.
I agree whole heartedly that Villareal, Lerew, or yes even Harrison should be given a shot if the performance (or lack thereof) of our 4th and 5th starters persist.
By Steven
April 29, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
well said sir stealth
By IlliniBrave
April 29, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
The fact is that Wickman is ridiculously overweight. My wife even commented “can you be that fat and be a baseball player” and she knows nothing about baseball. The guy’s a liability quite honestly, at this altitutde. And more generally, I think there are serious questions about his ability to finish out the season in the shape that he is in. He and Andruw (and Diaz and Paronto and Villareal) need the Braves to pay their way to a fat farm or something. This is pretty sad.
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
looking at this deeper there’s no way Wickman should have played today,but and this is a big but (sorry Wickman) a huge component in the Cox team mojo is trust in his players so I guess this is part of the deal.All in all it’s not a bad one either.
By Mississippi
April 29, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this
The problem with the decision of Cox isn’t the fact that he put Wickman in when wickman is the designated closer and said he could go. The problem is that waited 7 batters and 2 runs to pull him out. Get your own head out of your a* Sir Stealth
By Me
April 29, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth: you are a moron. We’re not angry that he started with wick. We’re angry that he left him in too long. Same scenario as with Hudson the other day. What part of that don’t you get? You turd.
By Me
April 29, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this
STEVEN IS GAY
By dcarp23
April 29, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this
I think the Braves are being hurt by Edgar’s deteriorating defensive skills. In this game and the Florida game, the Braves were hurt by ground ball hits in crucial innings. Whether anyone else could have made a play on any of the balls in question is obviously an unknown. But the fact remains that he is last by a longshot in both range factor and zone ratings in the National League. While neither of those is exact, admittedly, both indicate that he isn’t getting to as many balls as others at his position.
However, he is certainly one of the top hitters in the league at this point and is a tremendous value offensivel.
By Ron
April 29, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this
Lets quit blaming BC on this one, it was a save situation, Lets put the Blame on Andruw or that Third Base Coach. I dont know if the Third Base Coach sent him or stoped Andruw and Andruw just went anyway, but whatever happened that may cost us the GAME!!!!!!! Never ever make the First out at the Plate NEVER EVER!!!
By Mike S
April 29, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this
GET OFF OF WICKMAN’S BACK! He is our closer and he deserves to pitch when he wants to. The guy has been awesome the whole time he has been here.
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
Some of you are raising an issue that I raised right after Friday’s game. Wickman is just too overweight to withstand the thin air. Scarce oxygen has too far to go. I predicted then that we would not see Wickman for the rest of the series. Wish I had been right. Yes, he’s the closer, but we can’t become attached to a label and ignore conditions.
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
Gotta like the job Tyler Yates did today. Came in with the bases loaded and absolutely no wiggle room and got us out of the inning.
The team website has a report posted that indicated Tim Hudson’s grandmother passed away in Columbus after a long illness. Tim had just gotten off the phone with his wife when Braves director of media relations Brad Hainje called with the news that Josh Hancock had been killed in St. Louis. Hudson and Hancock were teammates at Auburn. My condolences to Tim and his family on getting this double-dose of bad news.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth~ just because a pitcher has the lable of being the closer~doesnt mean he pitches everytime the ninth inning comes around~ baseball is a thinking mans game~ Wickman should not have pitched in the ninth! If soriano had pitched the game would probably be over~ Wickman isnt suited for this type of ballpark~ especially given the fiasco of the other night~when Cox tried to manage again~ Let me ask you? is baseball a team sport? I would say yes to that~ however~ if a pitcher walks a batter~ or gives up a homerun~ is that a result of the teams play? or is that the result of the pitcher throwing a baseball to a hitter? Who’s responsible for the walk~or homerun? the pitcher and the batter or the team? hmm maybe the manager who put that pitcher in the position to throw to that hitter?
By Steven
April 29, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this
I was just trying to say this is Bobby’s team not ours.
By Chop Chop
April 29, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this
I question leaving Wickman in the game long enough to blow a lead when it’s obvious that he’s having a very hard time throwing strikes. He’s 38 years old and he’s pitched in over half the Braves’ games so far this year. Considering the fact that he’s had a bad back before, Bobby’s running the risk of sending Wick to the DL.
By bergian
April 29, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this
As DOB mentioned, Wickman has not been in more than 70 games since 2001(When he pitched only 67 2/3 innings that year) He CANNOT pitch every other game!
I said earlier this year, with 3 potential closers, and Wickman not EVER pitching more than 74 games the other guys should have quite a few saves. Soriano SHOULD have pitched 2 innings.
Cox should know this by now. 1 whole day off, after being terrible…in thin air…He still should not have come in, unless it was extra innings. Wickman is not going to beg off, but Cox should be a fairly smart guy with all the baseball he has watched. THINK BOBBY!!!
By Victor
April 29, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this
In the middle of the plate & game over!!!
By IlliniBrave
April 29, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this
I’m not on Wickman’s back, it’s his STOMACH I’m worried about. And he just cost us another game. I hope this isn’t a trend…
By D-Cider
April 29, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
Well, this road trip could have been a heckuva lot better. get wickman some oxygen next time he goes to the mile high city. hope Cox doesn’t go home and take it out on his wife. Games like this one and the one in Florida are the ones you look back on in a season.
By Me
April 29, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
That’s 2 games Cox has blown. I’m getting p**.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
When the other team has more runs than hits, you can be pretty sure that walks played a part in it. 13 walks = loss.
Wickman has looked terrible 3 straight times out. I’m a lot more worried about that than I am Langerhans, Davies, or anyone else.
By Ron
April 29, 2007 6:53 PM | Link to this
I knew that Andruw play would come back and bite us in the A*!!!
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this
I’m impressed that you called me a turd and all, but Wickman’s deal is that he’ll often put runners on and get out’ve it. If we had him on a short leash then he wouldn’t be effective and we would constantly be calling him back. Wouldn’t work. Plus, there is a lot of deference given to closers. Once they’re in in that inning, it’s their inning - if you decide to put them in, you don’t give them a quick hook. Especially once they’ve gotten two outs. And don’t pretend like people are’t gonna whine that Wickman shouldn’t have been in in the first place.
Thank God the team isn’t managed by any clown off the street who can b*** in hindsight and throw out the word turd. Then I’d be worried.
By IlliniBrave
April 29, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this
Really only two guys pitched badly today - Davies and Wickman. [Colyer doesn’t count cause the guy is still getting used to the bigs]. And as MBATL noted, they both put men on base via walks - 5 for Davies and 3 for Wickman. I don’t know how much value Leo Mazzone really added to the team, but I do know this - if you didn’t throw strikes you weren’t going to pitch for him (Exhibit A - Jason Marquis). Maybe McDowell could reinforce this basic point.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this
I agree Wickman is our closer! He has performed awesomely! As in life baseball is dynamic! Constantly changing~Wickman was not the problem~ Bobby created the problem by not knowing how to manage his bullpen~ Wickman should NEVER had pitched 2day! His skills are not suitable to that climate! Wickman IS our closer! and should remain our closer! However as in life baseball is dynamic! Dont fix it if it ain’t broke! Soriano looked pretty good to me in the 8th? Some of you people need to open your eyes and see what the heck is going on in the NOW! react in the now~ this to me seems like so much common sense~ but then again~ I guess you have all heard it b4~ common sense dont seem to common anymore~ I for one~am kinda new to this blog~ when i first started reading~ I was mildly surprised that someone had the insight to call a turnip a turnip~
I have always agreed with Robert~ He seems to be the only braves fan whom can look at this subjectively~
By Coach
April 29, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this
Bobby Cox is his own worst enemy. Together , Leo and Bobby were great. Individually , they are just average.
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this
MBATL, agree. Even Chip and Joe said that it might be time to wonder whether Wickman is physically ok. I think he is, (although I agree that he has been overused), but I just don’t think an old, grossly overweight guy can perform at mile high.
By Lan Sluder
April 29, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this
One bad day can happen to anybody. Two bad games in a row can happen occasionally. Three pathetic outings consecutively, and you have to start wondering how long Cox is going to keep letting Wickman turn all the effort of the first eight innings to naught.
By thathouguy
April 29, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
Don’t forget to save some blame for Davies who can’t make it out of the 4th!
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
Serbok, personally if it was up to me I’d throw the closers label out the window and rotate Wickman, Soriano, and Gonzalez. I also realize that just cause I would do that and Bobby went to Wickman in the ninth and he blew it doesn’t mean it was a dumb move. It was a pretty by the book move. I know that Wickman’s appearance stats are way ahead of what you want them to project to be over the whole season, but I also know that stats like that can even out. Maybe we use him now and go through stretches where he’s not needed or we don’t use him. And just cause Wickman didn’t get the job done doesn’t mean we should start having relievers go 2 innings, which usually ends up badly when done to much. Most games this season Wickman would have just gone in and there would have been no problems. Maybe Soriano stays in and gives up runs and then people will complain about that. You just never know.
Point is, whether I was thinking give Wickman another day of rest in the ninth or not doesn’t matter. Bobby Cox has a proven track record of getting it done over the course of the season and this wasn’t even a questionable move. Wickman weas not gonna run the table on a perfect season. It was a tough loss, but maybe with the line drives it just wasn’t meant to be. Andruw getting thrown out at home with nobody out didn’t help either.
By Ron
April 29, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this
MBATL, hell I am worried about LF, 4th and 5th Starters, and that Last Florida game when he brought Wickman in at the WRONG DAMN TIME, maybe he is feelin the effects of that game, whatever it is we are definately not as good as our record says we are, and who gives a s** if we beat the Mets 2 out of 3 games when we face them every time, if no one else can beat them, We are in DEEP SH!T!!!!!!!!
By Kieran: Long Island Braves Fan
April 29, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this
If You walk 13 and hit two batters in addition you will not win in the game of baseball. If your going to walk 15 guys you might as well not put on the leotard!
The back and of this roster is starting to plant some bad seeds in an otherwise excellent team with championship potential.
I don’t want to hear about a Langerhans double “Breaking his slump” or about a lousy sac fly, thats absurd, the guy is hitting .067 it’s a joke that he’s still in the starting lineup. What’d he do later on in the game, well he grounded into a predictable double play with a chance to drive in runs.
Good for Scott Thorman, It’s great to see him hitting, and with teh way his swing looks I hope tehres a good chance it will continue. Also awesome job by back up catcher Brayan Pena. Fantastic game, very few teams would get that kind of production from their backup catcher.
Andruw… ugh… Not lookin good buddy, better get WIllie Mays back on the phone to give you a couple more tips because its lookin grim. Of course he will break out of it, he’s a hall of fame caliber player, but if he’s hoping on cashing in like the otehrs, he better get that bat goin, Boras or no Boras.
Time for a trip back to Richmond Kyle, embaressing start today. But hey it could be worse… The Yankees have seen that kind of start nearly EVERY GAME, and now their not even putting in the run support.
If teh Barves are looking to win this division they can’t give away these games, especially on walks. Its time to move Soriano/Gonzalez to the closer roll and let Wick pass the torch, he did enough job, and I hate to see him go (have him on both my Fantasy teams!) But its time folks, the guy can’t throw it over the plate consitently enough, and when he does, he gets ripped.
We’ll see, a half game out of first, but the mets are lookin strong and the phils are heating up. 3 days ago I sure would have signed up for 2 of 3 in Colorado though.
By KC
April 29, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this
Wow… it really sucks to be losing games in the 9th. Would the Braves be better off with Soriano in the closer’s role, with Wickman setting up?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not getting down on Wickman. I’m sure he’ll be fine. I’m just wondering if we should pitch our most dominant reliever in the 9th. Though, If Mike Gonzalez truly feels more comfortable in the 9th, and if he could be as dominant in that role as he was in Pittsburgh… maybe it’s best to pitch him there.
Would a move to set-up duty screw with Wickman’s head? Questions worth asking, I believe.
Moving on…
3 moves that need to happen immediately:
1 - Release Mark Redman, put Villarreal in his place (Moylan appears capable of handling long-relief).
2 - Send Davies to Richmond, put Dan Smith in the rotation.
Make the above moves in the rotation, and based on their performance, decide which one will be replaced when Cormier’s ready.
3 - Promote Willie Harris… either by sending Orr to Richmond or by releasing Chris Woodward. Harris is tearing up Richmond. He’s certainly no worse a hitter than Orr or Woodward, he can play 2B, SS, or any OF position, and he’s a legit base-stealing threat off the bench.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this
oops~ i meant objectively~ i think? lol
By serbok
April 29, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this
way to go Coach~ now you are blaming roger Mcdowell?
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this
Look man, if you think Bobby Cox is a bad manager, that’s one thing. Personally I think that’s a damn near indefensible position, but fine. But to start quoting Robert as the only rational fan, a guy who spends his life on here repeating the same crap over and over again, defying all rationality, and saying that every single manager in the game is better than a manager universally loved by everyone in MLB who is sure to go into the hall of fame - that’s pretty bad company.
By Laurance Maney
April 29, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this
What’s wrong with Wickman? The same thing that was wrong with Wohler’s. You do not manage by hunch. If Hudson’s pitched 8 shutout innings you let ypur closer start the ninth, not bring him in to face someone else’s mess. From the grave, even Townes Van Zandt would have known better.
By gotigers72
April 29, 2007 7:07 PM | Link to this
That’s two consecutive games that Davies has thrown 90 pitches in 4 innings and made the Braves use the he** out of their bullpen. That absolutely cannot continue. Is he ever gonna get it together? Something needs to be done with 4 and 5, and yes DOB, I realize I’m beating a dead horse, but it’s not just the bad pitching and the high ERAs, it’s the extensive use of the bullpen when those two pitch. Between them they are wearing the bullpen out. Hudson and Smoltz have done a good job of taking the game deep, and Chuck has done fair, but if those last two spots continue like they have, well it’s obvious what that would do to a bullpen. Having to use most of the bullpen when 4 and 5 start cannot continue.
By bravesfansince1966
April 29, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this
pathetic….things are beginning to look alot like last year!
By Robert
April 29, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this
“Another anti-Bobby barrage here is just absurd. Wickman said he could go and was rested. He was our closer in a save situation. Get your heads out of your asses.”
No issue here with bringing Wickman in to pitch. But leaving him in there to walk the bases loaded? And then, AFTER that, after he has just thrown 9 balls in a 10 pitch stretch, he is left in even longer, to face Holliday. And after that, he still isnt taken out, even after he HITS Iannetta
un-frickin-believable. Yes, the staff issued 13 walks (if the ump’s strike zone was so small, how come the Rockies only issued 2?)
Yes, hitting into an unassisted triple play sux - and is unlucky.
But we have guys getting thrown out on the bases. We arent moving runners over in close games. And yet we STILL had this game won, barring a meltdown.
The meltdown ensued, and nothing was done to even TRY and stop it. What was Cox doing? Collecting data for the Braves to use if they go to arbitration with Wickman?
Three games this year lost by Cox
If this is a Hall of Fame manager, the game of baseball should pull the plug on itself for insufficient quality to continue operations
By Ron
April 29, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this
It for some reason seems like Cox has not been takin guys out until it is too damn late more this season than past seasons!!! It did seem like Friday nights game Wickman was graspin for air, and he was just plain awefull, another thing nobody is talkin about mainly because it did not hurt us, but earlier in the game we had a runner on 2nd base with 0 out in the inning and Davies was at the plate, and he was swinging, even the Broadcasters were stunned that he was not bunting, Davies hit the ball to the 2nd baseman, but he shoud have been bunting in that situation, BC is makin some lame brain decisions this season!!!
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth, the post that caused you to be called a turd was a well-written expression of your opinion. I didn’t agree with you, but I respected your point of view. However, you ended it with the instruction that we get our heads out of our asses, and you can bet that someone is going to take exception to that. Except for that last gratuitous and unnecessary sentence, it was a good post.
By AMG
April 29, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this
OK OK … No more Denver. Bob Wichman should be fine now.
I think the closer position is the least of the Braves problems now.
Tyler Yates sure looked good.
Please send Davies down to AAA before he is so mentaly frustrated he can never recover.
You cannot walk 13 and expect to win a major league baseball game.
By Bubba
April 29, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this
Bob Wickman=Dan Kolb. Were in for a long year unless we move Soriono or Gonzo to the closers role.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this
I did not say the only rational fan~did I? I said he was the only one to see a turnip for a turnip~ I enjoy this blog~ I like the ruminations of Lew and KC and occasionally caveman~ and believe it or not you also Sir Stealth~ However~ loyalty is a powerful thing~ one can become blinded by it~ as a few of the bloggers on here have become~ I dont point fingers~ I havent any issues with anyone~ (politics aside~lol) All I am saying~ is Bobby watches a great game~ kisses good A$$ to the players~I just wish he would get tossed out of the game more:o) would equate to more wins?
By KC
April 29, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this
Okay, after much thought and deliberation… I believe we should make Mike Gonzalez the new closer.
No, this is not a knee-jerk based on Wickman’s last couple of outings. I just think that if Gonzo’s more comfortable in that role, and can look as he did in Pittsburgh… why not get the most dominant guy in that role we possibly can. And if the plan is to give him the closer’s role (next year) anyway, why wait?
It’s not like Gonzo’s some kid that needs more seasoning. He was 24 of 24 last year. And Wickman’s a big boy, (figuratively speaking… and literally as well I guess) he can handle it. Wouldn’t Wickman make a great, reliable 7th or 8th inning guy?
If not Gonzo… Soriano has been as dominant (in close games) as any pitcher in baseball, and looked effortless in the 9th last night.
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this
LANGERHANS TRADED TO OAKLAND.
For cash or a player to be named. Braves are bringing up Willie Harris, who’s batting .362 with a homer and seven RBIs in 17 games at Richmond, and .412 vs. right-handed pitchers.
Bobby says doesn’t know how he’ll use him when I asked if it’d be platoon. But I think it will be.
By KC
April 29, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this
Bubba: As you can see above, I have officially advocated the same thing (moving Gonzo to closer’s role)… but I think you’re off base on Wickman. He’ll be fine.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this
Today was one of those games that teams have where anything that can go wrong does. Andruw got thrown out at the plate which cost a run. Cox who usually wouldn’t have sent the runners w/0 out and Chipper at the plate did send them and Chipper hits an absolute rope into a triple play. Wickman seemed to lose his focus after the pitch that was a strike was called a ball. Even the pitch Holliday hit off Colyer was a ball tailing into him that he inside outed. What do you do? By the way could you imagine what this team could have been if Holiday had been traded for Reitsma like the Rockies wanted to do last spring training? Oh, well.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this
whew, I can quit trying to defend Langerhans. And just when he broke out of his slump! Good luck to him.
By Chop Chop
April 29, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this
Wickman is just a tick under 80% for his career save percentage. Almost the exact same save percentage as Todd Jones, which makes a lot of sense, doesn’t it?. Anyway, if Wick’s hurt, that’s a problem. Otherwise, he’s probably just worn out from pitching so much so early.
I personally just think Bobby’s having to work the pen too much because of the poor starting pitching. We all know that Smoltz hasn’t been up to par so far, but he’ll be fine. Hudson has been fantastic so far. The rest of the starters have been killing the bullpen. Say what you want about Chuck James being a promising young pitcher, but he’s only averaging about 5.6 innings per start. Throw that in with Redman (4.8 innings per start) and Davies (5 innings per start) and you’ve got a disaster waiting to happen in the bullpen. That leads to overuse of setup guys who might be able to give Wickman a rest. The Braves really need five or six strong starts to get this stuff turned around, but is this staff capable of doing that? The odds aren’t very good.
By Me
April 29, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this
Sir Stealth:
You toally off base. When Wick is throwing strikes, and some guys hit his pitches on the way to him saving the game, that’s not a big deal. When he’s walking every man in an inning, he needs to be removed. 2 completely different situations.
By AMG
April 29, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this
Oakland … American League and can bat 9th and not need to produce on a regular basis. I think he will do well and wish him luck.
By Chop Chop
April 29, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this
Langerhans’ OBP has increased dramatically in the last couple of days. Billy Beane couldn’t control himself.
By Greg in TN
April 29, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this
Another tough finish today. Wickman did not look comfortable during either appearance in Colorado. In looking today, it looks like he was really struggling with footing on the mound. Not sure if that can be tied to thin air or maybe the set up of the mound that just didn’t work well with the stride he uses during his delivery. Fortunately we’re in the East these days and not the West. We don’t see Denver again until 2008.
I hope Langerhans is able to get a fresh start out in Oakland. Mr. Harris, welcome to the show.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this
“But to start quoting Robert as the only rational fan, a guy who spends his life on here repeating the same crap over and over again, defying all rationality, and saying that every single manager in the game is better than a manager universally loved by everyone in MLB who is sure to go into the hall of fame “
So the most popular guy is the best manager?
And you’re saying you think leaving Wickman in there to twist in the thin air was the right move?
You know why everyone loves Cox. Because the good natured buffoon who means well but can in reality do nothing right is an endearing character LOVED by the American people. He roots for the good guys, and he screws it up worse than most ordinary Joes would if they were in his place. Start with the Three Stooges, on thru Mr Magoo, not forgetting Maxwell Smart and Gilligan, and so on and so on. And it rolls off his back like water off a duck.
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this
Eric the elder, you make a good point and I apologize. Sir Stealth is a frustrated Braves fan. Bobby defending is a thankless job. The good news is, the Braves store at the CNN center agreed to make the custom Cox jersey shirt. Look for it at Turner Field in May and hope it doesn’t get too much blood on it at Shea stadium during a temporary summer period in New York. Sir Stealth isn’t ashamed of what he is.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this
no offense KC~but bobby would never ever make that kinda decision~ It migh hurt Wickmans feelings~ you know how bobby makes all his decisions~he would have to get Gonzo and wickman to shake hands on it~ KC I somewhat agree with you~ however~as we all know~ its still april~ and Wickman really hasnt proven that he cannot be the closer~Wickman has been awesome~ Bobby just made him look bad in his last 2 outings~ not Wickmans fault~ I do agree tho~ it is a nice option to have Gonzo and Soriano as alternatives for the closer lable~
By Robert
April 29, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this
“The problem with the decision of Cox isn’t the fact that he put Wickman in when wickman is the designated closer and said he could go. The problem is that waited 7 batters and 2 runs to pull him out. Get your own head out of your a* Sir Stealth”
A voice of reason. THANK YOU!
By Tom
April 29, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this
Not quite sure why Bobby keeps sending Wickman out there when Wickman has admittedly never really thrown in this many games this early in the season. He HAS to have a dead arm right now but I don’t think it’s anything injury-related. His release point seems very inconsistent.
Definitely time to see someone else out there in left field. Langerhans had been horrible. AAAA player, Langerhans appears. A bit interesting to see Billy Beane trade for him. He’s a high OBP believer and Ryan certainly doesn’t fit the bill. However, he does love great defense.
Time to see what Willie can do for us.
By Novice Ned
April 29, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this
Hopefully, Schuerholtz has new confidence that he can sign Andruw to a long-term dea, as Langerhans would have been a logical defensive replacement for Jones. Maybe Harris will be the real deal right from the start. Can blame everything on Wickman, team still seems dependent on the home run.
By Sir Stealth
April 29, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this
Robert you know damn well that it’s not just loved as a good person but revered as a baseball manager. I’d say I’m in pretty good company.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this
Calm down. An ugly week for Wickman. But calm down. He will be fine. Every reliever has a bad week. Don’t ever compare him to Kolb or Reitsma. That is just insulting (not to Wickman but to your own intelligence).
He was put into a terrible bases loaded spot the other night. And then he was asked to pitch in Coors although he is fat and out of shape. Also, as DOB has noted earlier, Wickman has been overworked.
I would not mind a rotating closer one bit just so he does not get overworked with how heavy and old he is.
The starters have really got to start helping out with that. Hudson and Smoltz typically give us 7 solid.
Chuck James on the other hand needs to get his act together. There has been at least two occasions now where he could only go 5 with a huge lead. That is simply unacceptable for a supposed #3. He has got to give us more than that. That taxes the bullpen. What happens is that James goes 5 solid then leaves and this kills the pen and the pen takes the brunt of the blame when they are overexposed and overtaxed. James needs to step up because it is starting to appear that the pen is going to be blamed for the shortcomings of James while James gets none of that blame from unknowledgeable fans.
Don’t even get me started with Davies and Redman. I don’t expect anything out of them outside of 6 innings and a .500 record. It does not look like that is going to happen.
It is probably too late in the season for this but since we have Gonzo and Wickman, I would rather see Soriano start as the #4 and Villereal as the #5. Don’t know how we would get Soriano up to a six inning threshold this late into the season but 180 innings of Soriano would be more valuable than 80 or so innings of Soriano.
BUT if we could insert him as a starter, and have SMoltz and Hudson and James give us 7 solid every night and Soriano and Villereal 6 solid when they start, we would just have to worry about the seventh inning and let Gonzo and Wickman shut down the 60 or 70 eighth and ninth innings that we need them to shut down.
By KC
April 29, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
SWEET!!!
Now, if we can just get Davies and Redman out of the pitcure, we’ll have a much improved ballclub.
By Glass Half Full
April 29, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
Not making excuses for him, but how many times has Wickman pitched at Coors field? He’s a big dude. Maybe he had trouble getting air or something in addition to the altitude having an effect on his pitches.
By Bravesbaby
April 29, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this
Awww we cant win em all. Would be very dull that way. Im concerned that Wicky might have a small injury hes hiding. I hope if he does he just tells someone and lets it heal. We need him healthy and the pen can handle it if they know they have to.
Langerhans, well I was really expecting something like this. I knew the braves would not hold onto him long. Just wondered when they would pull the trigger.
By KC
April 29, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this
serbok: “its still april~ and Wickman really hasnt proven that he cannot be the closer”
Never suggested anything of the sort. I think Wickman will be just fine. I just think either Soriano or Gonzo could be even better. And since the stated plan is to later hand Gonzalez the closer’s job anyway… why wait? If Wickman can pitch the 7th or 8th effectively, and I’m sure he can, go ahead and give the job to Gonzo.
By Eric C.
April 29, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
I like Langerhans, but any change should be an improvement at this point.
Seeing Wickman blow a game every now and then is to be expected…just hope 2 BS in 2 tries isn’t a start of a trend.
Still, closers are fleeting, injuries or not…on top of the world one day then just lose it the next…see Gagne, Lidge, Wohlers, Sutter. Smoltz is about the most consistent closer the Braves have ever had.
Well, should of had a 7-2 road trip…but 5-4 ain’t bad…and no ground was lost in the divsion. C’mon Huddy!
By Ron
April 29, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this
You watch that damn Langy will hit now that he is in Oakland!!! I do hope he has a good year with Oakland, I do feel bad for the dude!!!
By Robert
April 29, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this
“hmm maybe the manager who put that pitcher in the position to throw to that hitter?”
Good luck with that line of reasoning. I’ve been trying it for a long time and the hardcore apologists ignore it or poo-poo it.
It’s sound reasoning. It’s logic. Judging a manager not by the quality of the pieces he is given, but by how he utilizes them. But Cox has been granted unquestionable immunity to critique of this nature.
By NO CHOP ZONE
April 29, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this
Wickman is fat. sooner or later he won’t be able to get his arm past his gut.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this
what a world~ im watching 60 minutes and some guy from the NRA says he see’s nothing wrong with a mentally ill person purchasing a gun~! sorry for the non-sequitor~
By Rory
April 29, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this
How exactly is Willie Harris an upgrade over Langerhans? Willie Harris is not even as good as Pete Orr who is nowhere near as good as Langerhans
By Ron
April 29, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this
Just read on the talking chop website, where it says Langey traded to Oakland, they were thinking that a bigger move such as trading Salty for Harden might be in the Works. DOB, you have any insight to that rumor, I like Harden but damn that dude is never healthy, would rather get Haren, or just not trade Salty, we got enough injured pitchers here!!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
April 29, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this
Wow. An unassisted triple play is turned and Ryan Langerhans gets a hit on the same day? What’s next, a solar eclipse? Halley’s comet returning early?
By serbok
April 29, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this
Rory! good post~ I need to ponder that one! thanx~
By David
April 29, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this
I am so happy we are cutting our losses on Langerhans. Toward the end of spring training, somebody here was trying to say that he was a great hitter, and I found myself wondering if we were talking about the same guy. Langerhans is a sensational defensive player, but he might as well walk up to home plate sans a bat. There would be no discernible difference.
Put an outfield glove on Salty right now.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this
“Bobby Cox has a proven track record of getting it done over the course of the season “
Bobby Cox has a proven track record of having the luxury of two or three HOF starters and 4-7 future HOFers total on the roster for most of the past 17 years.
Bobby Cox has a proven track record of having a team that should win five of eight games against all comers and actually winning almost 6 out of 10.
Bobby Cox has a track record of being exonerated of all mismanagement or wrongdoing by a hardcore group of brainwashed apologists who are either in total denial, are competely stupid, are in reality secretly working for the enemy, or who have bought into a very well marketed lot of hogwash about his in-game managerial skills
We are 15-9. We should be 18-6. Four weeks in and we are three games behind ourselves. When we had Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz in their primes, plus another starter, one of the four or five highest payrolls in the game, and s** for competition in the division, we could afford that margin and still take home another vaunted division title
By Ron
April 29, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this
Well at this point anybody is better than Langy, and that means Willie Harris, we will see what happens, my thought is if he is strugglin after a week, we will be beggin for a trade, or bring up Brandon Jones, but we will see, Hope he does not struggle!!!
By bruce
April 29, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this
I am sorry that Langy was not able to break out this April for the Braves… I sure hope he does for the A’s and has a great career. I’m glad the Braves got something for him rather than releasing him or benching him. Maybe a different hitting coach will make a difference for him.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
Well, I do hope Langerhans all the best. He is a good guy and a great defensive outfielder, but he was a HUGE liability offensively. Personally, I would have rather seen Brandon Jones than Willie Harris called up but I definitely see the reasoning in not bringing up Jones yet.
Willie Harris isn’t the be all and end all but he is an upgrade over Langerhans in that he can get on base and once he gets on he can steal some bases. Ask Ozzie Guillen how valuable he was to him and the White Sox in ‘05.
I hope the Braves get cash instead of the dreaded player to be named later. The Braves need the money.
By knowitall
April 29, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
Regarding Langerhans, the Braves literally decided to go in a different direction. “Langy were’re headin back east but your goin west”.
Good luck kid.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this
“Today was one of those games that teams have where anything that can go wrong does”
The team scores seven runs. They overcome a poor pitching performance to lead by two with three outs to go. They have a four for four day and four ribbies from their number six hitter, and not only a HIT, but an RBI as well from Langerhans.
But everything that could go wrong did
There’s only one thing that went wrong with this game that we could not in the end overcome, and that was Cox not getting ejected before it began
By Kieran: Long Island Braves Fan
April 29, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this
Ya know, ya comlain and moan about a guy and then he’s finally gone and you’re all of a sudden taken back. I wish Ryan a ton of Luck, I like the guy, I hated wanting him to be taken out of the lineup but it had to be done. He’s going to a very fun, player friendly clubhouse and hopefully he finds his stride and has a blast over there. American League pitching might be just what teh doctor order for him. I’m sure Willie Harris is very excited to join the team, I’m looking foward to seeing what he’s got.
It’s nice that JS made the first move before Bobby had to, it keeps Ryan in good spirits and is a real reason players love playign in Atlanta. Let’s go out and win some more series now!
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this
Serbok there is no doubt that a Cox ejection is the best entertainment value the Braves have to offer.
It’s highly entertaining, to start with because it’s usually initiated due to sheer stupidity (arguing balls and strikes being the most common trigger - which is perhaps the futile thing any participant in a game can do). The show itself is also great. I mean, during the tirade, Cox’s face will turn colors that even the folks at Crayola dont have names for.
And the best part is that when an emphatic finger thrust from the umpire ends the festivities, our Braves chances of winning on that day have improved considerably
If you could guarantee me a Cox ejection every night, I buy the whole blog season tickets
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this
Robert, just one question: is there any other team that you watch as closely as you watch the Braves?
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this
“LANGERHANS TRADED TO OAKLAND.
For cash or a player to be named”
The Onion is rumored to be reporting that it was for cash.
$2.18 plus shipping and handling
By Tomahawkin' Again
April 29, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this
Usually when you finish a 3 city road trip 5-4 and are 15-9 overall, you should feel great…But, we’re all b***’ and rightfully so because it should’ve been a 7-2 road trip. Agree with the posts regarding getting more save opps for Gonzalez and Soriano. Wick has been overworked here recently. Look at the bright side, a win tomorrow against the Phils gives us the 8th best start (check me there DOB) in Atlanta history and best since 2000…a very good April indeed!
By KC
April 29, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this
Rory: “How exactly is Willie Harris an upgrade over Langerhans? Willie Harris is not even as good as Pete Orr who is nowhere near as good as Langerhans”
You should really check the facts before you make statements like that.
Orr in 313 career AB’s: .275 avg, .302 OBP, steals-9/14
Langerhans in 698 career AB’s: .242 avg, 15 homers, 70 RBI, 188 K’s
W.Harris *in 899 career AB’s: .238 avg, .306 OBP, steals-55/70
Orr’s career batting average is better than Harris’, but his career avg. is positively skewed by a good first year (.300) average. Last year he hit .253, and this year he’s hitting .222.
The last year Willie Harris had a measurable number of AB’s was 2005. He had 121 AB’s that year and hit .256 as a part-time player. The year before that, he got just over 400 at-bats, and hit .262 with a .343 OBP. Not great, but certainly not bad.
This year, Harris had a great spring and has been completely out-classing AAA pitching. As of today (through 58 at-bats), he was hitting .362 with a .457 OBP. and was 7/10 in stolen bases.
In addition to being able to play 4 or 5 positions well (all OF positions, 2B, and I believe he’s played some SS), he is a legitimate base-stealer… something we don’t… or didn’t have on this team. He will certainly hit better than the Langerhans has been, and when he doesn’t start, he’ll give BC a great pinch-running weapon. He’s the kind of guy that’s practically in scoring position whenever he gets on.
Great move.
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this
Bringing in Wickman, your closer, in a save situation wasn’t a bad move. Now, not bunting your runner over to 3rd with no outs in extra innings after a lead-off double…well, I think that is questionable. Gotta play for the run in that situation!
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this
“The good news is, the Braves store at the CNN center agreed to make the custom Cox jersey shirt.”
What’s custom about it? Hole in the back for the tail to dangle thru?
By KC
April 29, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this
I loudly applaud the move, but I too wish Langerhans the best.
NOW GET DAVIES AND REDMAN OUT OF THIS ROTATION IMMEDIATELY!!!
Dan Smith and Oscar Villarreal are better options. Can’t be any worse, and they could be much better. Won’t know until you try. When Cormier comes back, leave whichever one is performing the best, and replace the other with Cormier.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
KC, you left out Langy’s OBP. Sure that was just an oversight, though!
By KC
April 29, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
Robert: Actually, I think the price was $0.56. Get it? =)
By gotigers72
April 29, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
Don’t know if anyone has mentioned this because I don’t have time to read all posts, but that 1-2 pitch Wickman threw Tavares to lead off the ninth was RIGHT DOWN THE MIDDLE. He lost his composure a little after that wasn’t called a strike and ended up walking Taveres and 2 more. Horrible call. Should have been one out. I know some umpires have tight strike zones, but DeMuth was squeezing it all day long. One reason for the 13 walks by the Braves pitchers. Tight strike zones like his make for boring, long ball games, and to miss a borderline pitch is one thing, but to miss one that was right down the middle is another thing. Especially on a 1-2 pitch in the late innings. Taveres even thought it was a strike, he was walking toward the dugout.
Glad to see Willie Harris being called up. I was impressed with him during the few games I saw him play during Spring Trasining. He will give the Braves an infusion of speed, which they can really use. Sad to see Langerhans go, but it just can’t be justified to keep him when he was hitting below .100, although he did contribute today and may be coming out of it. Hope he does well in Oakland.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this
“Robert you know damn well that it’s not just loved as a good person but revered as a baseball manager. I’d say I’m in pretty good company”
Your company reminds me of the Flat Earth Society circa 1491 - before Columbus sailed away and didnt fall off the edge
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this
I am a little surprised that Harris got the call over Blanco, but he does seem to be more versatile and has been playing well in AAA…
By KC
April 29, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine: Of course you’re right. Wickman had a day off. It made all the sense in the world to bring him in.
But now, if there’s nothing wrong with him… I think you still need to give him some time off. Put Gonzo in the closer’s role, and announce that you’re simply giving Wickman “time off”. But hey… if Gonzo handles his “temporary” assignment as he handled his full-time job last year… well, maybe you just leave things the way they are then. =)
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this
“Robert, just one question: is there any other team that you watch as closely as you watch the Braves?”
Syracuse University basketball and lacrosse
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this
Dude, I think Langy will fit in well with Oakland… Hope da best 4 him… Him and Nick Swisher will cut up out there…Hope to see him get it together, if he has the philosophy of taking the ball the other way, like he did in his first at-bat, he’ll creep on a come up…
By choppinmama
April 29, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this
“Langy, we hardly knew ye”. Good luck on the left coast, buddy. Who knew what that double would cost you today? hope TBS wasn’t going to show us his locker on Friday.
The Revs. Sharpton and Jackson will be delighted by the Willie Harris call-up and the “diversity” it will provide the team. I’ll be delighted with the experience and speed Mr. Harris will bring us.
DOB: what’s the word on ol’ Hoss’ gimpiness? Is it a thigh or a foot/toe problem?
Nothing like going a few extra innings -and another frustrating loss- on get-away day.
By Winston
April 29, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this
Guys, I just don’t get all this Gonzalez to closer talk. Yeah, Wick has had a bad week, but its his first bad week since being traded to the Braves. He has been exceptional. It’s great that we have a back-up plan with Gonzalez and Soriano, but let’s not bury Wick just yet.
And Robert….c’mon man!! What are you talking about with this Cox nonsense? While I’ll agree it was Cox’s good fortune to have Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz pitching in top form in the 1990’s, the days of those guys going out and being dominant every game was over by 2000 and Cox has managed to keep the Braves competitive. Remember in 2004 I think it was when Jaret Wright was our #1? Wasn’t so easy on Bobby then and we still won the division. That team had no business in the post season. And furthermore, Peter Gammons, the best analyst on tv and a hall of famer, calls Cox the best manager he has ever seen. That’s all the proof I need. I’ve read some dumb stuff on here before, but your incoherent and idiotic ramblings about Bobby Cox’s deficiencies as a manager take the cake. Take that trash somewhere else.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
I can just hear Bobby sayng~ “Pinch-Runner”?) whats a pinch Runner?
By Coach
April 29, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
The book on Willie Harris: He is an excellent utility guy , as he can play 2b , SS , CF and LF with good range. Great speed , no power , he can work a pitcher for a walk , can’t hit lefties. Height 5-9 weight 175 Bats left , throws right.
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
What’s up with Billy Beane liking our outfielders? First Chuck T and now Langerhans. I, too, wish Langy the best. I am glad he will no longer be platooning, but wish him the best nonetheless.
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
Hey Coach If Ur still on…I was really p—ss’d off by all da walks today… and that damn Tulowizski….Made me lose my nerve today…as soon as Coyler gave up da walkoff…I threw my shoe at the wall, and broke a candle…Today’s loss was tough, and we can’t let that carry on against philly…becuz that philly series is gonna be tough…
By April
April 29, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this
Langerhans didn’t see the trade coming - as he hit .068 and failed to have an RBI through most of April. I hope the player the Braves get from Oakland is tall and handsome with a little bit of a rough edge, sorta like - oh, well, nevermind that. I read this blog everyday hoping something will change but nothing really changes. I have seen trailer parks before and I am not too proud to step in one if that is what it takes for me to come to your place and make you a home cooked meal. I don’t give up easily. What did you think of the photos I posted? Yes, they are real. Glad you noticed. - April
By Me
April 29, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
Robert: even when Cox gets ejected, he still manages from the tunnel.
By Chris
April 29, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Right on, Winston.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Let’s look at some of the other boners or bad bad breaks in this game
The first out of an inning at home. Ok, Cox didnt send Andruw.
Lining into a triple play. Sheer bad luck
Not bunting after the leadoff double. This is the one that merits investigation. If you bunt him over, what happens? Intentional walk to increase the odds of an inning ending DP. But you move the winning run over, set it up where a hit guarantees a run, and put it that much closer to where getting on base in any fashion means a run. On the other hand, that deep into your pen and with the home team still to bat in the bottom of the inning, you can argue that one run isnt a guarantee by any means of winning the game. Me, I bunt. But I can see a reasoned arguement for why you might not
I can NOT fathom a reasonable arguement for leaving a reliever who clearly is having major location problems in to walk the bases full, and then to pitch to three guys after that
This was a wacky game. A lot of things went wrong and we still had a chance to win. But the decision to leave Wickman in there is indefensible. The decision to bring Wickman in is questionable, but not indictable.
Good managing is making use of the available resources at that instant in time to maximize the chances for a favorable outcome. For years, that entailed filling out the Braves lineup card. Now, it’s more complicated than that, and, as Cox has shown us by no less than three unforgettable and unforgivable decisions within the span of two weeks, it’s a responsibility he is incapable of handling effectively.
$0.56 for Langerhans. I like it. So they overpaid by $1 or so.
Good luck to Langy. If he succeeds in Oakland, I am sure it will have been none of Cox’s fault that he didnt meet his potential with a big “A” on his cap
By Navigator
April 29, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
The chink in the armor of the Braves is beginning to show. The starting five are proving to be average as a group, and the closer isn’t closing. They have three bench players starting in left, second, and first. Enjoy the early season while the braves are in contention, because by August it will be a memory. The lack of ownership, and a meager budget will make the 90’s look like a mirage.
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
KC,
I have to admit…I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing Gonzalez or Soriano close. They both have better stuff. But, until the last couple of days, Wick has been as good as it gets. Let’s blow the Phils out the next couple of games, give him some rest, and see how he does in his next start at an altitude that the Big Old Man can breathe in. But, I certainly can’t call you crazy for your suggestion, especially if Gonzo was pitching like he did last year!
Regards,
Jason
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this
“He was put into a terrible bases loaded spot the other night. And then he was asked to pitch in Coors although he is fat and out of shape. Also, as DOB has noted earlier, Wickman has been overworked”
The $64,000 question is - WHO did all of the above things?
Answer - The greatesy mismanager of all time
By The Retarded Turnip
April 29, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
Watch out Winston… Robert does not like anyone to question his lack of intelligence. He will throw you in the back of the truck with the rest of us. :-)))
By Homer
April 29, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
much improved bullpen my a$$
By JJMB
April 29, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
I missed today’s game. Reading through some of the posts, and looking at the boxscore, it looks like Cox left Wickman in too long? I think Cox will ride Wicky till he breaks. And the heat of the summer hasn’t even begun to sizzle.
Langerhans traded to Oakland? My question is why in the hell would Oakland want him? .068 avg after his “breakout” today. At least I don’t have to listen to fatboy Jon Miller pronounce his name.
By KC
April 29, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
Winston:
I’m not trying to “burry” Bob Wickman. As I’ve said, I think he’ll be just fine. But when you have a guy in your pen who was 24 of 24 in save opps last year, and who has significantly better stuff…
The only reason Gonzo wasn’t handed the closer’s job this year, is that it’s hard to mess with anything that was working so well. Even if it seemed Gonzo was the best closer option… why take Wickman out of that role when he was nearly perfect.
Now, as I said… I think the Braves should announce that they’re giving Wick a week off, with Mike Gonzalez in the closer’s role. But if Gonzo looks here in that role as he looked last year… you simply say “Hey… Gonzalez looks so goo, we’re gonna keep him there for a while longer and pitch Wickman in other late-inning situations for now.”
If Gonzalez earns it, then it goes from a fill-in assignment to a permenant one.
Again, I don’t think Wickman’s washed up. He’s a good closer and he’ll be just fine. But if there’s an even better one already in the bullpen…
By Brent
April 29, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this
Navigator- the Braves have a bench player starting at 2nd? Have you watched Kelly Johnson play? He is in no way a bench player- he is a starter with allstar potential.
By Winston
April 29, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this
Robert…While I’ll agree that I think Bobby has made an error in overworking Wick this early, your other contention about the bases loaded jam makes NO SENSE!!!!. What was Bobby supposed to do??? Someone had to go into the game in that situation for Hudson. Do you want him to just send no one out and forfeit the game?? Or do you want him to leave Hudson in, thereby committing the very same error you are bashing him for with Wickman today? You can’t blame him for letting Hudson go back out there, because as you said, Wick had been over-worked. He brought in his closer with a 0.00 ERA into a tough situation to try and save the game. Nothing wrong with that. You’re just being critical for the sake of backing up your assertions which have no merit or basis in logic or sanity.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this
When will the people realise that I am a better manager than cox? Hell! even Sir stealth and the “coach” is a better manager than cox? Hell even GW bush is a better manager than cox~! then again~ didnt he trade sammy Sosa? Robert~ you may be a GM but! you are NO bobby Cox! LMAO!
By serbok
April 29, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this
April? is this may? lol
By Robert
April 29, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this
“Robert~ you may be a GM but! you are NO bobby Cox! LMAO!”
Thank you!
By Coach
April 29, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this
Macay McBride started another game in Richmond. He made two relief appearances on the 16th and 19th of the month. Started on the 23rd and 29th going three innings each start with a 0.96 ERA. Bullpen or rotation ? We shall see.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this
Navigator, with all due respect, you are an idiot. Kelly Johnson is far from a “bench” player. Check the stats, my friend. He is in the top five in the league in OBP. He is among the top five in leadoff hitters with five homeruns. Only Renteria and Francoeur have hit better with runners in scoring position. Johnson’s average in those situations is almost .400! He has reached base in 11 of his last 12 games. He has reached base in the first inning in 11 of 19 games started. He has went to three ball counts well over 30 times this season. Yeah, he is a bench player. Just some scrub they pulled off the street.
The lack of baseball knowledge and the subsequent ignorant remarks by some really astonish me.
By brian
April 29, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this
didn’t we take 2 of 3 from the Rockies in Colorado?
people this is a long season and there will be a lot of ups and downs. Like the players we shouldn’t get too high with the up times or too down with the hard times. If the Braves just focus on improving their play continually through the season we will be fine (of course a 4 and 5 starter would be nice too)
By Rory
April 29, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
KC, check your eternal optimism at the door for once and check out the facts for once.
Langerhans, .242, .337, .376, 99 runs, 70 RBIs, 38 doubles, 6 triples, 15 home runs, 93 walks in 698 at bats, 806 plate appearances
Willie Harris, .238, .306, .294, 138 runs, 53 RBIs, 27 doubles, 4 triples, 5 home runs, 87 walks, 55 stolen bases in 899 at bats, and 1014 plate appearances
Pete Orr, .276, .302, .362, 55 runs, 18 RBIs, 11 doubles, 5 triples, 2 home runs, 11 walks, 9 stolen bases in 312 at bats, 334 plate appearances.
With the same number of plate appearance, Orr would score more runs, have as many RBIs, more doubles, more triples, and more home runs than Willie Harris.
SO, KC, once again you are the one who needs to check your eternal optimism at the door for once and start checking out the facts for once yourself. The only person your eternal optimism did not seem to extend to was Langerhans.
You fail to see that the pecking order of scrubs on our team from best to worst was Langerhans, then Woodward, then Orr.
NOW, the situation is going to be Woodward, Orr, then Willie Harris.
Come on, KC, WIllie Harris could not even beat out Pete Orr, a.k.a. waste of a roster space, at the end of spring training. Now we have three wastes of a roster space in Woodward, Orr, and Harris. Langerhans was a hole in the lineup but as a fourth outfielder, he was not a waste of roster space. He was just being utilized improperly.
I’m all for getting rid of Langerhans but only if it was going to be an upgrade. Willie Harris is such a downgrade only a delusional, uninformed fan could support such a move.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this
Robert, since I haven’t heard back from you on a very simple question (“what other teams do you follow as closely as you follow the Braves”), I’ll assume that the Braves are the only team you watch closely. So, some other questions:
Did Manny Acta leave Bergmann in too long today? or should he have pulled him after 6 strong innings? Might’ve made a difference in a 1-0 game.
And should Gardenhire have left Neshek in to pitch the 9th in a tie game against the Chisox, or should he have brought in another righty, like Guerrier or Rincon, or even the closer Nathan even though the score was tied? Why did he bring in Crain, with a 6.00 era?
I have a feeling you have no opinion on these questions. You compare Bobby Cox to perfection, not to other managers, and Bobby usually comes out on bottom.
No?
By Rory
April 29, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this
KC, what good is a pinch runner with Bobby Cox? None! None, whatsoever. Orr can steal a base as well but with his manager, he is never asked too. Whatever Harris brings to the table with his stolen base potential will be negated by Cox’s managerial tendencies. I mean we had 5 tool guys in Chipper and Druw and just pretty much ignored their stolen base potential for most of their careers.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this
“your other contention about the bases loaded jam makes NO SENSE!!!!. What was Bobby supposed to do??? Someone had to go into the game in that situation for Hudson”
Winston, my contention is that Wickman, or perhaps another reliever, should have been brought in BEFORE the bases became loaded.
By KC
April 29, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this
Navigator: I hate to pile on, but I’m going to have to chime in with Brent. I’m forced to wonder if you’ve been paying attention.
Kelly Johnson has been one of the best all around 2nd basemen and leadoff men in the league so far this year. He is a stud and could very well turn into a perennial all-star.
Scott Thorman is another extremely talented young hitter with tremendous potential. He started slow, but has been coming on quite nicely. But, no reasonable observer can pass judgement on him just yet, either way.
While James’ box score didn’t look great from his last start, it was deceiving. He pitched very well… especially for a flyball pitcher at Coors. James is a fine 3# starter. And I don’t seriously need to defend Smoltz.
Right now, I think the top of the Braves rotation 1-3 is as strong as any in the league.
Now the back end of the rotation is dreadful. You won’t get any argument from me there. This is the one and only real weakness on this team. Even though we got a blown save in the 9th, we gave up 5 runs through the first 5 innings. A starter with a fairly mediocre 4.50 ERA will generally get you through 5 or 6 innings with only 3 runs allowed. Davies is the reason we lost this game. Every time Davies or Redman go to the Hill, we have to ask the offense and the bullpen to bail them out, and that can’t happen every time.
The top of the rotation is going to be excellent, the bullpen’s going to be excellent (don’t get carried away over 2 or 3 blown saves by Wickman), and the offense is going to be excellent. So IF we can get the back end of this rotation fixed, this will be a nearly flawless team… IF. Let’s hope.
By Declan
April 29, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this
“Robert, just one question: is there any other team that you watch as closely as you watch the Braves?” Syracuse University basketball and lacrosse
So, that’s the problem. Dude, you live in the South and you don’t have a football team? What kind of man does not watch the NFL or college football?
Syracuse basketball, huh? How exactly do you not shoot yourself? If you rant this much about all the underachievements of Cox, what the heck do you sound like about the NCAA tournament underachievements of Boeheim. I can only guess.
Lacrosse??!?!?!?!?!? That sounds about right for you. A follower of a sport for pretentious snobs. Should have known.
By KC
April 29, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this
Rory: Are you just Robert posting under a different name? Be honest.
Bobby Cox does use pinch runners in key go-ahead situations, and any legit base-stealer (which Orr is NOT) will usually have the green light.
While Orr runs well, he’s never been a particularly adept base-stealer.
By Chuck Norris
April 29, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this
Did anyone else notice how little coverage this paper had of today’s loss? Dont we have one of the best records in baseball. Step it up.
By KC
April 29, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
Rory: “KC, check your eternal optimism at the door for once and check out the facts for once.”
I believe you said Harris and Orr are “nowhere near” as good as Langerhans. Obviously you are a Ryan Langerhans fan and are the one who really needs to check your optimism as the door… or pull your head out of you a$$. Not sure which.
By Lew
April 29, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this
Well-I’m just glad we got something for Langerhans. I wish him well and hope he tears up the AL, so then I can hear everyone complain about how we always give up players that do well elsewhere, when we could have kept them. I have sincere doubts that Willie (I steal lots of bases but can’t get on base) Harris is the answer to any problem we may or may not have had, but I wish him well also. My only question is who is y’all’s next whipping boy going to be? I know for a fact you can’t go without one.
By Declan
April 29, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this
KC, these are James’ innings pitched this year: 5 innings, 6 innings, 5 innings, 5.1 innings, 5.1 innings. That is horrible from a #3 starter, KC. That is Horam horrible, KC. These are his pitches thrown through such a pathetic level of innings pitched: 92, 94, 74, 91, 84. That ain’t cutting it. Not on a team with fatal flaws at the #4 and #5 spot in the rotation. James needs to step it up. Otherwise, that pen is going to get killed and be used up and useless in about six weeks.
KC, please, go tell the Sunshine Band to quiet down a bit so that you can think clearly for once and get yourself a clue.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
”(“what other teams do you follow as closely as you follow the Braves”
Syracuse University basketball and lacrosse. I follow no other major league baseball team near as closely as I follow the Braves
I do not see how the fact that other managers sometimes make mistakes (and sometimes get away with them) justifies not pointing out that Cox frequantly makes mistakes that have a track record of him not getting away with at critical junctures (such as in the postseason)
I dont second guess every move Cox makes. I have been fairly emphatic in stating for example, that it wasnt wrong to bring Hudson in to start the 9th the other day, and that it wasnt wrong to try Wickman today. I also dont blame Cox for every loss.
I see three games this season that were winnable or nigh unto already won that were back in play by a boneheaded move on the part of our beloved leader.
“Did Manny Acta leave Bergmann in too long today? or should he have pulled him after 6 strong innings? Might’ve made a difference in a 1-0 game.”
In the sense that if the Nats had actually scored a run and the Mets had scored more, than maybe a game the Nats mightve been winning instead of losing they end up losing thus giving the Mets a game which plays into a race with the Braves?
As far as getting the Nats anywhere near the playoffs - Acta could lead the team in smoking crack before every inning and it wouldnt hurt their playoff chances
“And should Gardenhire have left Neshek in to pitch the 9th in a tie game against the Chisox, or should he have brought in another righty, like Guerrier or Rincon, or even the closer Nathan even though the score was tied? Why did he bring in Crain, with a 6.00 era?”
I subscribe to a theory that says that managing is a lot of “feel” I wasnt at that game - I wasnt watching it. I dont have a feel for what was happening and cant comment.
Cox might be a great people person as far as handling egos and keeping team business within the clubhouse walls. But when it comes to the “feel” of a game - he either has it totally backwards, or he has no feel, or he ignores it for the sake of loyalty to his guys.
Cox is often lauded for keeping an even keel - for not letting the team get too high or too low. I think this might well be because he in reality doesnt have have a feel for whether there should be any cause to get high or low. He is unaware of danger. Ignorance is bliss and is his friend in this situation. Give me Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz, and the lows will go away on their own soon enough to avoid major trouble during a 162 game season. Give me a short postseason series, and it’s game 3 of the next round beofre Cox realizes that his already eliminated Braves should be in do or die mode
By serbok
April 29, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
Winston~ Wickman is NOT the reliever one wants to come into the game with runners on base! Bobby’s loyalty is cool~ but the objective is to win the game? One does not bring in a pitcher who has past reputation~ of putting runners on base and then closing the deal~ the bases were frigggin loaded? in mile high stadium~ There is absolutely /////////no excuse for this managerial stupidity/ Then today? Soriano takes care of business? cool! now lets bring in an unknown~quantification~’ yeah~ thats the ticket! Lets bring in our Closer? I think Wickman deserves the title of closer~ He has earned it~ however its the managers responsibilty to win the game at this point? Soriano~ Gonzo~and wickman~ are all closers? Someone earlier posted~ nothing wrong with bobby’s decision to bring in his closer? The fact is~~~ we have 3 closers! The fact is bobby screwed up Again! and it will not be the last time he does~ Bobby lives the life of a shadow~ IF it werent for JS Bobby would not bask in the glory you guys give him! Dont get me wrong~ Bobby watches a great game! He’s awesome at that! I pay 15 bucks a month to watch but unfortunately I dont get to manage the bullpen~ Bobby is a great guy// I just dont have any respect whatsoever for his managerial skills! He needs to lookup to willie randolph? lol
im
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
Rory I totally agree with you as far as Bobby C’s Running game, or lack there of…That’s the one of the few knocks I have on Bobby, I get tired of this station-to-station crap…That’s one of the reasons why we can’t win close games, especially against good teams late in da season…
By KC
April 29, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this
For the record, where Willie Harris is concerned…
I am NOT hailing him as the second coming of Christ. He is a part-time player, nothing more. But I feel he brings more to the table than Langerhans… or Woodward or Orr for that matter.
By brian
April 29, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
DOB - been awfully quiet this afternoon. Anything else going down? Or are you stuck trying to board an airplane? What are your thoughts on the Langy move as well as where do we go from here in LF?
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
Hey Lew everyone knows that Craig Wilson is next…Or the back end of the rotation…For some reason however, I feel our deadline deal in July will be for another starter, Our offense is fine, but the 4 and 5 guys in our rotation aren’t cuttin it…
By KC
April 29, 2007 9:30 PM | Link to this
Declan: What handle do you ordinarily post under? Just curious.
Anyway… James has not been very good overall this season so far. You won’t get any argument out of me there.
I am aware of his innings pitched, and you’re correct… that’s not going to cut it. But I think his track record through the minors and throughout last season suggests that we can expect more as the season rolls along.
There were a couple situations where I couldn’t figure out why Bobby pulled him. He was pitching well in those starts, and his pitch count wasn’t really high. I think Bobby just chose to utilize the newfound depth of the pen on those days to get the matchups he wanted in the 6th inning.
Anyway, I could be wrong. Maybe James will be nothing more than a 5 or 6 inning pitcher with a 4.50 ERA… but I doubt it. Seriously doubt it. And I think everyone in the Braves organization does too.
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this
Prize the lowered, at least we don’t have to read anymore posts about how Langy should be sent to Richmond.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this
“If you rant this much about all the underachievements of Cox, what the heck do you sound like about the NCAA tournament underachievements of Boeheim”
I watched the 15 vs 2 upset Richmond pulled on SU while enjoying the feature talents of some nubile females at a once-famous gentleman’s club on Stewart Avenue (Does the Gold Rush still exist?)
I watched them lose to David Robinson’s Navy team.
I went on a three day bender after Keith f-in Smart stuck it to us from the far corner in ‘87
Boeheim is a great recruiter, and his startegy has actually improved considerably over time
Lacrosse - Yes. The greatest game that most people dont have a clue about. 21 or 22 consecutive Final Fours for the Orange. And an NCAA tournament appearance streak exceeded only by JHU but which is about to end as the Orange are 5-7 after losing to UMass 9-7 yesterday.
I grew up around Syracuse and went to Johns Hopkins for undergrad. Dont be dissin lacrosse
By Lew
April 29, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this
Tomahawkin’-Dude, you could be right. One thing for sure is that it will be someone-or their replacement.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this
Whenever Someone starts off a Post”with all due respect you are an idiot~ I know I’m in for a laff!” Lol
By Rory
April 29, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
Not a Langerhans fan. But check out the stats, KC. Orr, Woodward, Langerhans, and Harris all suck. Langerhans sucks the least. Harris sucks the most.
ENOUGH!
By Me
April 29, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this
Christ was a fraud. Paul began a man-made religion using him as the centerpiece. Do not be fooled! He is a false messiah.
By The Grinch
April 29, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
T’hawkin, whassup, man! I gotta ask, tho…you threw a bottle at the wall tonight and broke a candle? Since you were watching the game I assume the power wasn’t out; do you live in a Catholic church? :-)
Willie Harris isn’t a better hitter than Langy, but he isn’t in a horrible slump and he’s much more versatile. That said, good luck to you, Ryan. Hope you get yours in Oak-town. Just watch where you park your car.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
“Bobby watches a great game!”
serbok - That’s the funniest thing anyone has said on this blog in a long time. Give the man credit. He also penciled in “Maddux” “Glavine”, or “Smoltz” into the starter’s spot 3 days out of 5 as well as any guy in history ever did who had the luxury of leading off with 3 HOF starters for a decade.
From 93-00, Cox had put in a good day’s work when he handed the lineup card to the ump. Great job. Follow the dangling carrot back to the dugout, sit down, watch some baseball, and let the adults work undisturbed.
Starting in ‘01, the talent level gradually fell off, from frighteningly good to exceedingly good, thru very good, and now finally to just significantly better than average.
Once it got below exceedingly good, even a first round playoff victory proved to be beyond his reach
By MEB
April 29, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
Played golf all afternoon and DOB the weather in south Alabama was absolutely glorious. Temperature of 85, light breeze, and low humidity, wish you were here.
Disappointed in the crazy loss today and I’m very saddened to hear about the trade of Langerhans. I understand that baseball, not unlike other ventures, is all about the bottom line and producing bigger and better numbers. Sometimes I think we forget about the people involved and what a great teammate Ryan has been during his time in Atlanta. I certainly wish Ryan well and hope he puts up great numbers in Oakland.
Sad day as well for all of baseball with the death of Josh Hancock. Prayers go out to his family and teammates.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
“Whenever Someone starts off a Post”with all due respect you are an idiot~ I know I’m in for a laff!” Lol”
I’m always left wondering how much respect the particular idiot being rederenced in any such post is entitled to.
Unless the idiot in question is Coach. Then the know the answer is “None”
By SAL
April 29, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
Willie Harris? Geesh, Braves dump an outfielder in Langerhans and bring up a .228 lifetime journeyman utlility player and plan on him being in a platoon situation? What Harris is doing in AAA is one thing, but his major league track record speaks for itself loudly. What a wasted roster spot unless Braves plan on him taking Redman’s or Davies’ spot in the rotation.
Why not at least bring up an young outfielder like Blanco and give him a chance?
By eric the elder
April 29, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
April is a day from being over, we have lost only one series, and we are a half tick out of first. Ignoring the possibility that we might be overreacting just a teensy bit, here is how we might restructure the team.
Starting 5: Huddy, Gonzalez, Soriano, McBride, James.
Move Smoltz to closer, which is where he really would prefer to be.
Move Chipper to 1st base and “get” Baldelli for LF. Move McCann to right field, freeing up Francoeur for some pinch hitting. Bring up young Schuerholz to replace Kelly Johnson, who is really just a bench player anyway.
With these minor tweaks, we could once again be the Beast of the East.
By steverino
April 29, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
hi y’all from jazzfest. I probably just saw jerry lee lewis for the last time-great band, great showman but sadly just a shadow of his former rambunctious self. Don’t know if he’s had a stroke or just many years of hard livin’ has caught up w/ him, but he can still tinkle the ivories. Surprisingly, Van Morrison was a disappointment but Rod Stewart was great. Van seems have to retooled his band back to his roots. His set was filled with country and blues tunes. Rod had a huge band with three GREAT Back-up singers. I was hoping for * Stay With Me* for an encore but even Hot Legs(a song I hate) was good. Bonnie Raitt was her usual sterling self, John mooney and Sonny Landreth were righteous. Of course the food, the vibes and the weather was terrific. You really should make time to visit the world’s Premier music festival. Wish you were here!!
By Rory
April 29, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this
KC: Let’s call a truce. In fact, I am going to throw you a huge bone in your war with Shaun where you guys always argue about whether or not Dayn Perry is biased against the Braves or not. I found an article today by Dayn Perry that proves your point (s0rt of). He now claims to be a Braves fan after years of hatred, but do you believe him? I don’t. You can’t hate a team and say the disgusting things he says and then claim they are your second favorite team, can you?
Here’s the link for you:
http://baseballanalysts.com/archives/2005/05/brave_heart.php
Here’s the text for you:
Brave Heart By Dayn Perry
I’m a fan of the Cardinals, hardwired to be so. My Dad grew up in Alabama back in the days when the closest thing the American South had to big league baseball was the far-flung broadcasts of KMOX out of St. Louis. So in some senses, he was predisposed to favoring the Cards. However, this was cemented during the ‘46 World Series when he and one of my uncles made an exceedingly modest bet on the outcome. My uncle took the Red Sox, and my Dad took the Cardinals. The Cards won, and Dad was hooked. The team has been an indelible part of my family ever since.
When I was growing up, each summer we’d make the 13-hour drive from South Mississippi to St. Louis to take in a handful of Cardinal games. My Mom, dutifully in attendance but with only a perfunctory interest in the game itself, would often do needlepoint in the stands. My first major league game was a Cards win over the Reds in 1980, and I was hooked. It would be a fine decade for Cardinal Nation. The radios in our house, for some reason, couldn’t pick up KMOX. However, my Mom’s Chrysler could, so my Dad and I, during games of critical mass, would often sit in that car parked in our driveway and listen to Jack Buck growl the action to us from afar. I remember listening to the a crucial road tilt with the Mets in late ‘87—the one in which Terry Pendleton’s clutch bomb essentially felled the vile Amazin’s for good that season. At that point in my life, I’d never been to New York, and it seemed to me and my provincial ignorances a veritable Sarajevo of potential hostilities. I worried for the physical safety of my team—that they won the game was gravy.
The Cardinals and their successes (and their occasional failures) pepper the memories of my youth. I now live in Chicago, far, in the geographical sense, from my home and my family back in Mississippi. That’s served only to buttress my febrile love for the Cardinals and the sense of complicated pride I feel in being a native of the South. But this column isn’t about the Cardinals or the South.
For a long time, I viewed the Atlanta Braves as traitorous interlopers. They weren’t the South’s team; the Cardinals were. The Cardinals had spent years cultivating the market, and then the Braves came along and undermined all of it. You’ll find a great many people of my Dad’s vintage in the South who are Cards fans, but most of a younger stripe favor the Braves. This bothered me for many years. I regarded them to be a whimsical spurning of history and tradition.
For many years, the only thing the Braves could otherwise do to raise my anger was occasionally preempt “Night Tracks” on WTBS during that fleeting and regrettable time in my life when the novelty of the music video held sway over televised baseball. (I shudder at the memory.) They weren’t really considerable opponents back in the days when Rick Mahler, Rafael Ramirez and Bruce Benedict roamed the land. All that, of course, changed.
By the time the ’90s rolled around, the Braves—thanks to the impossibly heady triumvirate of John Schuerholz, Bobby Cox and Leo Mazzone—began a run of dominance not seen since the Yankees were brawling at the Copa. That all this was coincided with a rather bereft decade in terms of Cardinal achievements made it sting even more. So I cultivated a hatred for the Braves that went far beyond whatever animus you might feel for intruders of glancing consequence. They were now the force nonpareil in the NL, and a deep adoration for the team pollinated the South. Grrr.
A very vocal majority of my college friends were Braves fans, and this led to countless arguments among us. I would rail against the frat boy smugness of Chipper Jones, moan to the heavens about the leviathan of a strike zone that Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine alone seemed to enjoy and harrumph about the prevailing whiff of evil surrounding Ted Turner. And all the while the Braves kept racking up division title upon division title. This decidedly one-sided rivalry reached a particularly grisly nadir in the 1996 NLCS, when the Braves, down three games to one, performed hate crimes upon my Cardinals, outscoring them 32-1 in the final three games to take the series. I recall, in the instant after Glavine’s bases-clearing triple in the early innings of Game Seven, hurling my remote control through an open window. The indignity was such that I was forced into exile for many weeks.
I’m older now, and, if not mature (I’m not), I’m less prone to abject homerism and, as such, able to appreciate the amazing bestowals of the once-maligned Braves. Somewhere along the way, my feelings toward the Braves scooted along the continuum from red-faced hatred to grudging respect to subtle admiration to, finally, the point I’m at today—I like the Atlanta Braves. I’ve probably watched a thousand Braves telecasts in my life, and I’ve come to regard the arid wit of Skip Caray as a sort of comfort food for me ears. His voice, which I don’t hear enough these days, takes me back, as they say. Mostly, though, I admire how the organization has evolved and thrived under an array of economic conditions and with generations of different players. I’m proud of them. They’ll most assuredly never displace the Cardinals in my heart and mind, but the Braves now have ineffable honor of being, dare I say it, my second-favorite team. It feels good to say it.
In my professional capacity, the Braves have made a mouth-breathing fool of me over the past several years. I’ve picked against them season after season only to be proved wrong, season after season. My predictions of their demise weren’t borne of dislike or wishful thinking; rather, I just couldn’t see how they’d keep up in spite of all the roster upheaval. As I look over the standings right now, I see the Braves are once again in first place in the East and once again toting around the best record in the NL. Again, I’m confounded. We’re toe deep in what may be the most amazing Braves season since the ‘91 campaign that started it all. And, like those paid actors at McDonald’s with little regard for their cardiovascular health, I’m lovin’ it. Should they encounter my Redbirds in the post-season, I’ll root like all hell against the Braves, but should their paths fork away from one another, I’ll have no reservations in rooting like all hell for the Braves.
So, Atlanta Braves, you amaze me game after game. I enjoy your company, I respect your accomplishments, I like you, and I even root for you. Most of the time. Oh, and I’m sorry for all those mean things I said about you.
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this
Harris sux and should be sent down. Why is he on the team and not Blanco or B. Jones?
(:
Again, LF is not my top concern (although I was against the platoon). As much as I hate to say it, the last 3 spots in the rotation are starting to worry me. I think Chucky will be okay, but I am not sold on him being a solid 3 yet. As for Davies or Redman, well, I guess there really isn’t much that needs to be said. Their names sort of speak for themselves.
Regards,
Jason
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this
Shyt…Lew…Or offense will be fine, Lets just see if a team like the Pirates will give up another one of their young arms…But thats too far down the Road…Its only April… And I like about a possible 16-10 April… There’s only more room for inproving…
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
Choppinmama, don’t know what you’re referring to regarding Hoss’ “gimpiness.” He only came out of the game for double-switch thing, because they had to keep Woodward in because the bench was depleted at that point. As I said earlier, he’s got a bit of tightness in a quad, but nothing to sideline him. He’s played every game. Only went 1-for-6 today, but extended his hitting streak to nine.
I’d think he’d get a day off soon, whether he wants it or not, however….
Brian, I’ve “been awfully quiet?” Are you serious? Dude, not being a smarta$# here, but I really think a few folks don’t understand what my regular job entails.
We had a game that completely blew up in the late innings, rendering all that happened before almost irrevelevent for a 20-inch game story. We had a trade that wasn’t announced until after the game.
That’s two stories that had to be written after I got back upstairs from clubhouse at 7 p.m. your time, after writing the blog before the game and the notebook during the early innings.
Yeah, wonder why I haven’t been on here casually conversing about the trade and all the rumors you guys are tossing around.
Bro, this is a very difficult and hectic day. No time for b.s.’ing. I just wish I’d had some time for that. Just filed my game story after the Langy story, now going to send some MP3 files of interviews to WSB and try to get to the Joseph Arthur show.
By Lew
April 29, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this
Eric-As facetious as your lineup projections are, I still think I’ve actually heard them as suggestions in the past week or two. You forgot bringing up Kai’ahue from A ball to take over for Thorman-oh wait. That was sugested BEFORE Thorman brought his average up almost to .300 in the course of four days.
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
Actually Grinch, I threw My shoe at an unlit candle…After watching Andruw turn his back to da infield on that Walk-off…I was still gettin my drink on however…Gotta relieve that hangover somehow, and as wacky as that game was…I felt da urge….
I do know this however, If we walk the Whole Phillies lineup, they are gonna wipe the floor with our a-s-s-us
By Fritz the Cat
April 29, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
Me, are you saying Jews are liars? Novel concept.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
“With these minor tweaks”
Three major position or role changes, plus the addition of an every day player who has all-star potential.
And the little guy who has shown GREAT plate discipline (a walk for every four at bats and a K/BB ration of less than one) is a bench player.
Mm-Hmph!
Uh HUH!
Here’s a little blurb on Johnson - from cbs’ sportsline.com
“Braves manager Bobby Cox predicted before the season that Johnson could hit 20 homers this year”
Not unexpectedly, the basis for Cox’s enthusiasm about Johnson is flawed. Johnson’s value comes from doing what a leadoff hitter is supposed to do - get on base as often as you can, any way you can. Leadoff hitters dont need to hit home runs. Home runs from a leadoff hitter are a bonus, not the basis of their value
I havent said much about KJ. It’s time to chime in. He has the look, right now at least, of a big time jump starter.
If Cox had something to do with that - (yeah right!)
By Rory
April 29, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this
steverino, I love your restaurant in athens.
By MBATL
April 29, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this
Robert, was gonna respond on the whole ‘other managers’ issue, but then you come up and blame Bobby for a quote that CBS pulled up from 3 weeks ago. Muckracker!
By Tomahawkin
April 29, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know Whats up wit Chipper, I thought he did da hammy thing again…on that 1st to 3rd route, gawd, I respect everything he does, but he’s like the Chris Chandalier of the team now…
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Robert,
I, too, am a huge Cuse fan. Of course, all other teams pale in comparison to Bobby’s Beloved Bravos, but I do love the Orange. I still feel like punching something every time I see a replay of that freakin Smart shot. If DC could have hit that front-end of the 1-in-1!!
Regards,
Jason
By chip
April 29, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
I hate to see Langy go — but only because Andruw will be gone next year, and Langy plays a great defensive outfield. I figured he’d be the starting CF next year. Still…it’s clear he can’t hit a lick.
Hey, having watched Davies pitch, I still think he’s going to be okay. He needs consistency, but the tools are there.
By Ron
April 29, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
You guys dont think BC would dare bat Harris leadoff with Kelly Johnson thrivin as a leadoff man do you? I hope not!!!
By Drummerdad
April 29, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Langerhans gets a fresh start in Oakland. Good for him. Wish him well.
Wickman…I personally think he has something with his back that’s bothering him. He threw a lot of balls in the dirt the other night. Signaled for being lifted.
Would Rich Harden be a fit with the Braves? Oft injured so far, so we know he’s a fit on that front! ha!!
LEW, thanks for the warm greeting the other day. I trust that you have been well. What do you think of doing a Roy Orbison black and white in the not too distant future?
Some of the defensive moves that Frenchy is showing right now are reminiscent of Dale Murphy during the 83 to 85 stretch.
eric the elder: Chipper ain’t going anywhere my friend. When he moved back from LF to 3rd, that was it. At least that’s what has been said. And, Smoltz is startting because that is where he wants to be, NOT THE CLOSER. Those are cool sounding moves, but the 2 kingpins aren’t interested.
By Haze Gray
April 29, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Screw the nasty looking Braves
By serbok
April 29, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this
James will be ok~’// we are here? ~OH? “How I wish You were Here” Bobby is just a lost soul swimming in a fishbowl~year after year” Can one only imagine if with all the talent Bobby has watched thru the years~ What a dynasty this team would have had? really sux~ as *I’ve said b4
I like bobby~! best damn cheerleader I have ever seen!@ not the prettiest~ but still best cheerleader there has ever been/////////////////////////! Do cheerleaders make it to the HOF?
By F A Skippy
April 29, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
Most of you seem to agree the bigger mistake was leaving Wickman in too long.I agree but I’ve got’a say no way I’d of played him at Denver after the last games.BC looks to have misplaced his feel for when to take the pitcher out and it’s probably cost a couple of games. My bigger concern is the physical and psychological effect on Hudson and Wickman.Still this is a resilient team and all managers have cranial gas once in awhile.
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
Good stuff today, folks (from you guys, I mean, not the Braves. Though until the ninth, that was pretty good stuff, too. Well, toss out the starter and the closer and it was pretty good. How’s that?)
Wow, what a game. What a day. What a trip.
What a concern (closer).
I asked Bobby if he’d drop Wickman from closer, at least for a while, and he acted like I asked him if he’d take him out back and shoot him. Quotes are in my game story.
Later, folks. Thanks for all the interest today. Guess it’s more than worth it to post on on weekends.
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this
Ron, just saw your post about whether Bobby would bat Harris leadoff. That’s absolutely comical. Seriously, that’s the most absurd notion I’ve seen in weeks.
If that happens, I’ll throw my laptop from the pressbox at Turner Field. Or at least throw a cup of coffee.
It’ll never happen, Ron. You’ve got the second-highest leadoff OBP in baseball. And he hits for power, which Harris most definitely does not.
You guys really shouldn’t get your expectations up too high with Harris. There’s a reason he has the career major league numbers that he has.
By TennesseePaul
April 29, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
Bummed on the game. However, we won the series. And, this is the best part in my mind, we got to see Thor rake against a Left Hander. Bet he’d be just fine if he were in there every day.
I sure hope Willie can play defense. His numbers aren’t all that impressive. Looks like a classic AAAA guy.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
Lemme take a guess. The dude with the moniker Me is probably between the ages of 15 to 20 years old. He thinks he has just divulged something to all of us that none of us have ever thought just because it is the first time he himself has ever had those thoughts.
He completely fails to realize that any good adult person of faith routinely asks themselves and each other those questions every day and we have all resolved those issues revolving the essence of Christ for ourselves.
We don’t share those questions with children like yourself because children need to be taught the fundamentals of faith first before they can ever branch out and ask and answer and resolve for themselves the tough questions about the nature of Christ that you think you have revealed to us. Silly little boy!
I am sure you are the same kid who is going to come on here the first time you get laid and act like you invented sex as well, as if the rest of us adults have never experienced that or understand it.
Or you are going to be the same little boy who uses drugs or alcohol and acts like the rest of us have never indulged or experimented.
Or you are going to the guy who falls in love and acts as if the rest of us have never experienced that sweet emotion.
Or you are going to get heartbroken and act like none of us could ever know what that feels like either, right?
Little boy Me, go home, and call us back when you get some pubes on you.
Your statement about Christ was not outrageous because every adult person of faith asks, answers, and resolves that for themselves every day.
Trust me, when you grow up, you will realize how foolish and inexperienced you sound to the rest of us with your supposed outrageous statement about Christ.
It did not shock me.
It just made me laugh about how childish you sound and inexperienced with life you must be.
Me , Take out your rebellions against your simple minded parents. It sounds like that is where your issues lie and not with the rest of us, you silly confused, inexperienced child.
By krath
April 29, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this
I know this is an over simplification, but it seems like there are basically 3 different types of players.
“A” player The stars. The player who puts up good numbers, year in and year out. Players who seem to deliver in the clutch at least with some degree of regularity.
“B” player Every team needs these guys. It’s the guy who puts up respectable numbers, most of the time. You can pencil him in the lineup and while he won’t always be the “go to” guy in the lineup… he won’t embarrass himself on most days and will actually have some flashes of greatness that help the team win.
“C” player These guys are the journeymen. They bounce around from team to team. They never seem to reach the full potential that was expected of them when they were signed. They usually are either good field no hit….. or they hit a little but are defensive liabilities. Some of them bounce around as a “bat” off the bench.
Like I said, this is over simplification but I wanted to just put it out there in regards to Langerhans.
Langerhans is right now a low “C” player in my opinion. He will have to improve to be a good “C” player. After 3 years in the bigs…. he’s still not shown he can be the player the Braves need him to be. He’s a great defensive player…. but how many teams can afford to carry a guy who can only play D in the outfield and not hit a lick?
There seems to be a risk trading a “B” player because he may one day reach “A” player status, but the risk of trading a guy who is a “C” player knowing that if he ever comes around he may be a “B” player is less of a risk in my opinion.
The guys who are going to be too valuable for a team to deal is usually obvious in a couple of years of big league experience. Even if they aren’t huge contributors yet…. they show constant improvement and increased level of maturity. Look at McCann and Francouer. Still too early to tell about Thorman or even Kelly Johnson at his new position even though he looks like a million bucks right now. ( I personally feel like KJ is the real deal though) Langerhans has had time to show what he can do but instead of showing improvement…. he’s struggling more instead of less.
Willie Harris may or may not be a solution but surely the guy can’t look as pitiful as Langerhans has looked at the plate this year.
Langerhans seems like a good kid and I hope he wins the job in Oakland and becomes that “B” player who can contribute to a teams success.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
“If DC could have hit that front-end of the 1-in-1!!”
Man, his freshman year, DC was the ever smiling enthusiastic boy wonder. I think that game, that moment, gave birth to the scowling malcontent he will unfortunately untimately be remembered as
2003 - Warrick’s hand appearing out of nowhere to block the last KU attempt and preserve the win. That was joy that night my friend.
Funny thing tho - I wasnt that upset when “Cuse got passed over for this year’s NCAA’s. I was upset as a homer, but looking at it rationally, they lost too many games to mediocre teams and aside from a rockin win over G’town, they were short on quality wins
By Robert
April 29, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
“Muckracker!”
Muckraker? I cited the source!
By Ron
April 29, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this
At least we took DOB’s advice and we are being nice to each other!!!
By The Grinch
April 29, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this
DOB, so after you get done with those things you should be back about 11:30? 40? Don’t let us catch you assin’ around. :-)
Rory, you have just bitten onto the hook of the odiferous one. Be careful; it’s quite a mouthful.
Steverino, that Freudian slip about an old man “tinklin’ the ivories” was classic.
G’night, all; much work to do.
By Ron
April 29, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this
DOB, I did not say I wanted Harris to Bat Leadoff, but with the stuff Bobby has done this season, I thought that he might, I never said I want him to be the Leadoff man, because we have a great one!!!
By Fritz the Cat
April 29, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
Spoken like a true christian, Rory. The “turn the other cheek” stuff doesn’t quite work for you, does it?
So… you’re a drug user (criminal), and you like to yell at, and try to intimidate children. Yep, good stuff.
By lilman916
April 29, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this
Is Wickman turning into Dna Kolb before our very eyes???
By brian
April 29, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this
DOB - by no means did I mean to suggest that you were loafing with your heels kicked up being lazy. I am one that is very appreciative for all you do. I cannot imagine your lifestyle on the road without the major league ballplayer salary. I actually cannot imagine your schedule at all. I cannot believe you have the time and put forth the effort to keep this blog top notch as well as keep the articles coming in print.
You seemed to like Langy a lot and with the one liner on him being traded without giving us your take on the trade, LF situation, etc, just left me wondering if something else was up. You have spoiled us all by keeping us in the know and usually when something goes down and you do not post for a while you either are trying to catch a plane, catch some sleep before a red eye flight in the AM, trying to get something in for your day job (though you usually will say that you have to get an article done), or something else/another trade may happen. There was an article in a paper at the beach detailing how Jones and Floyd are left on the bench in Chicago and with the Braves opening up left field, I was trying to connect the dots.
Again, please accept my apology if you felt I suggested you had nothing better to do than to sit here, read our posts, and post yourself. That was not my intention. I just tried to read into your silence as maybe the Braves were making another move and you were gathering more info before commenting more on the Langy trade. Sorry.
As a lifelong Braves fan, this Braves blog is incredible and helps with my Braves fix while I am stuck way too North of Atlanta with a paper that, well, is not the AJC.
By Kieran: Long Island Braves Fan
April 29, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this
Definatly going to second the notion in David’s last post. It’s a nice story and a great opportunity for Willie Harris but thats it. I hope the kid hits and brings some tools to the team, but anyone who’s expecting him to be a savior to this lineup(not that they really need a savior right now, they’re a half game behind the “Best team in the National League”) is looking for the wrong things in the wrong places.
What more does Kelly have to do??(Or Kell-aay, as I like to call him for those who so the recent South Park Head Lice Episode.) I was as done as someone could be on this guy and he’s made me a believer, whether he can keep this up or not, we shall see, but right now theres not too many leadoff guys who are better.
That being said, opening up that roster spot should improve the team at least somewhat. Harris is a nice utility guy with base stealing ability off the bench. He’s getting an opportunity to revive his career and I hope he does well with it.
By Fred Secunda
April 29, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this
DOB, has there been any annoucement about who will fill Harris’ spot in AAA?
By krath
April 29, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this
Wickman
I’m usually the glass is half empty kinda person, but I’m hoping for the best with Wickman.
Coors field. Over worked pitcher. Finesse guy who depends on putting the ball to exact spots. Colorado notorious for killing guys “stuff” and control with said stuff.
Wish Bobby had let him sit until the team returned to Atlanta…but that’s just me.
Think he should get a couple of days off and then throw him back into the fire….. and hope that’s all it was.
By JasonInMaine
April 29, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this
Robert,
I hear ya. I was mad at first, but once I attempted to think about it in a rational manner; I could at least see the committee’s point. DC had as much potential as anyone. Man, was he ever physically gifted. Do you remember the playoff series against Cleveland, in 1992 I believe, when they lost in 7 and he almost averaged a triple double? He could have been one of the all-time greats! I can still remember exactly where I was when Hakim blocked that shot!!
Regards,
Jason
By Lew
April 29, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this
Drummerdad-I’m doing fine. A black and white of Orbison would certainly be doable. Pretty good subject for a black and white drawing, too. I’m working on one of Hemingway right now.
By Rory
April 29, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this
Nope, never been a turn the other cheek kind of fella. Too New Testament for me. I’m an eye for an eye Old Testament sort of chap. Looks like school let out, someone finally get computer access with a different computer, huh, Stinkonia? Haven’t heard from you since your banishment. Nice to know you either found a friend or mommy let you use her computer again.
By David O'Brien
April 29, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this
Brian, no problem. I was just in the middle of coming down from chaotic writing frenzy when I read your post. No worries. Appreciate your continued interest here, my man.
Only reason I had one line on Langy was because I’d just gotten back to pressbox and wanted to let you all know before I wrote the story. I was on state-edition deadline, which is really early.
I hate to see Langy go. Really hate it. He’s absolutely one of the coolest, nicest, classiest guys on any team I’ve covered, up there with Derrek Lee, Jeff Conine, Cliff Floyd, Mark Kotsay, and a few Braves including three who’ve been traded in the past whatever months _ Horacio, LaRoche and Langy.
But hey, it’s a business, and he wasn’t producing. He knows that. He handled it with dignity and class, as you’d expect. He was starting to get emotional answering the questions about how much he’d miss these guys and all, and it was tough to watch him start to realize what had happened and how he was going to be leaving that clubhouse for the last time.
By brian
April 29, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this
and for the record I read on this blog enough to know how much time you put into this, and also how busy your regular job keeps you
all you had to say was nothing or that you were busy with your regular job, but instead you had to take a shot at me for not understanding what your life is like. You posted the trade on Langy and then went over 2.5 hours without posting again until your smart a$$ reply. All I wanted to know was - are you just busy (very understandable) or is your silence indication that you are working on something. A simple answer would have sufficed.
I know you are incredibly busy and that makes me appreciate what you do here even more. If you want me to say that every time I address a post to you I will if it will keep me from getting a smart a$$ reply.
I guess the answer then is no, you were busy with your day job, and no the Braves do not have anything cooking with the Cubs or anyone else for LF currently. I think we all hope that will change, though maybe he could be our Charles Thomas for the year
By UVABrave
April 29, 2007 11:11 PM | Link to this
DOB, let me know how the Joseph Arthur show is. I’ve always liked his stuff, but never been a big enough fan to check out his concerts or anything. I really like the older albums like “Redemption’s Son” and “Come to Where I’m From,” but haven’t really gotten into the newer stuff (but I haven’t made a huge effort…so maybe I’ll pop it/play it on itunes tomorrow).
Any thoughts on why Harris got the call over “pure” outfielders like Blanco or McCarthy? Does Bobby just want another versitile utility guy? or is there another move in the works? or did he jsut not want to start the “clock” on McCarthy and Blanco?
By Fritz the Cat
April 29, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this
Pardon, I should have said child-abusing, not molesting. Based on your prior testimony.
By journalist jimmy smith
April 29, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this
journalist jimmy smith returns from journalist’s travels to find wicky ineffective, langy traded, and hammy irritated. much has gone on during this journalist’s holiday. and what is wrong with wicky? notice the look on wicky’s face when wicky is pitching? metamucil may be needed by the big reliever. or prunes. lots of prunes. stay out of the clubhouse, dob. now, baseball … 1st out at the plate? oh, the humanity! and what will become of langer’s hands? will they become rollie’s fingers? what? not on the team? okay, how will langer’s hands react to this trade? might the middle finger be extended finger at the next home game? and where is journalist bob? and hk with a graph. this journalist is impressed with all the new identities stinky has adopted. same stinky, though. limited.
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this
I don’t think anybody really thinks Willie Harris is the answer in LF. However, he will be better than what we got out of Langherhans. I think Harris is a bridge to either someone else acquired by trade (perhaps that player to be named later) or until Blanco or Jones show they are ready. The Braves may want to give it a couple of more weeks to see if Jones and Blanco keep hitting like they have been and at that time call one of them up.
By We Have Mets the Enemy
April 29, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this
You can cease with the butt-kissing, Brian. Dave’s forgiven you.
By gotigers72
April 29, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this
To worry about Wickman at this point is useless. Two examples: 1 - The guy with the most saves ever, Trevor Hoffman, blew two saves this week, one where he blew a 3 run lead and lost the game on “Trevor Hoffman Night”. 2 - The guy that many consider the greatest closer ever, Mariano Rivera, has more blown saves than has saves so far this year. Has only one save so far. Do you think their managers are going to throw them under the bus? If it was up to some of you and you were managing either SD or the Yankees, you would have those guys sent to A ball immediately.
Chill out. Wickman will be fine. Even the greatest closers, Gossage, Lee Smith, Eckersley [remember Kirk Gibson’s HR] had rough spots where they blew saves [plural] before getting back on track.
By N8
April 29, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this
As far as Harris goes, I’ve got one word for everybody……
STOPGAP.
That’s all he is. Something else is brewing. Whether it’s bringing up a kid in another month or so (Jones, Blanco etc…) or a trade (Jacque Jones, Cliff Floyd, Reggie Sanders).
NOT A CHANCE IN HELL, that our LF is manned by a Diaz/Harris platoon. But then again, mabye I should rephrase that: Not a chance in hell that we SHOULD use a platoon of Diaz/Harris.
I’m not sure what the answer is, but I’ll go out on a limb and say that THAT IS NOT IT.
By serbok
April 29, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this
Very good post Krath! Thank you:o)
By SAL
April 29, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this
Hey, if it is time to panic to the point of Willie Harris taking Langerhans’ spot (leaving no quality outfielders on the bench)then why not really address LF lack of production.
Why not either move Kelley Johnson back to outfield (LF) and bring up Prado to play 2B and bat 8th. Or Bring up Blanco to play LF and bat 8th. Either way you have a decent outfielder in LF.
Perhaps Harris could take Wilson’s roster spot if Braves really want him in Atlanta.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this
OK. I’m gonna give y’all the text of an email I just sent a fellow blogger, with whom I’ve been carrying on a neat email conversation for a few days off-blog.
The more discerning amongst you have probably figured some of this out (No, I am not three Barry College frat boys, tho that was an amusing theory)
Anyway - including some irrelevent stuff about a common interest in photography
“I’m gonna be checking in on the blogs intermittantly during my time in Fla. My dad doesnt have net access (the computer is an expensive solitaire machine to him)
You know, I have gone overboard on the hyperbole many times. I have posted stuff I wished I hadnt, and I wish too that I could refrain from getting into the personal barbs with knuckleheads. I’ve gotta remind myself at times that arguin on the internet is being in the special olympics - even if you win, you’re … . Politically incorrect I know
In Feb I bit the bullet and bought a Canon 5D system. Full frame sensor. Man what a cmaera. Now I;ve gotta find some time to find and learn how to work some software that’ll let me work with RAW files
Anyway back to Cox. It;s funny how as I seem to be getting some support, I’m willing to back off and be more realistic in evaluating him. (It;s really not surprising at all tho) The guy clearly has a head for the game and is clearly a wonderful people person. Ok, I’ll say it - any organization would be better off with a guy like him SOMEWHERE, in some capacity, working for them. (If you post that, I will SHOOT you :P) I just dont think that strategizing late in a close ballgame is the best role for him. Sometime, a lot of times in fact, our greatest strengths can also be our greatest weaknesses. I think the loyalty and respect he shows his players sometimes costs us games - and in the playoffs, that’s not a luxury any team short of the 98 Yankees can allow itself.
The more I think about it, the more I’m coming to think JS may be at fault here. It’s kinda like when you make an addition error and you go back and check yourself and you keep adding that one plus two is four, and you double check it and keep making the same mistake, and never even look for the error there. (it’s not a good explanation, but closest I could come)
Back to Cox - It befuddles me that someone who can be so good at 90 percent of what it takes to be a great manager can be so glaringly a donkey at the last 10 percent - the 10 percent that makes or breaks whether a team reaches it’s ultimate playoff potential.
Your idea of the mock-up steering wheel for him is great.
I dunno. I think he’d be a great guy to go have some beers with.
I still make it to Atlanta every so often (last was for the NCAA finals). Next time I am planning a trip, I’ll let ya know and maybe you can buy me one of those beers you’re gonna owe me
He (Cox) is a frustrating man to watch work.”
And so there you have it. Some perspective.
And I’m as vulnerable as anyone to having my greatest strength be my greatest weakness.
I despise the herd mentality. On occasion that leads me to be contrarian just to be contrarian.
I’d just hate to see yet another Braves team that is so well handled in a lot of ways sent home early in October because it is sometimes so poorly managed strategically
By Robert
April 29, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this
And now for today’s lost lyric
“We turned our gaze from the castles in the distance. Eyes cast down on the path of least resistance”
By N8
April 29, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this
Forgot to add this to my last post:
Though I don’t think that a platoon of Diaz/Harris is THE answer. I commend JS for doing something. It had to be done, both for the team and for Langerhans. A change of scenery will do him well, it should, at least.
I wish him well. It was NEVER personal with Langerhans. My issues and frustration with him, stem more from his manager and GM “sticking with him” too long, rather than with his ability. He is what he is. Maybe with a new team that lets him play EVERYDAY and not as much pressure (though, I’m not sure he could’ve had any less pressure on him here), is just what he needs.
The situation with Davies is similar. I imagine that a fair ammount of patience is needed to do what Cox and JS do. But at some point you’ve gotta make it about business. Davies aint getting it done, and I seriously doubt he ever will. Like I said earlier today though, he was supposed to start at Richmond and NEVER got that chance, so it’s not like the put him in the rotation out of Spring Training. The moved him up to Atlanta out of desperation, not desire. So for now, I’ll give Cox and JS a flyer on Davies…..for now.
By Robert
April 29, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this
The hypocrites are slandering the sacred halls of truth Ancient nobles showering their bitterness on youth Can’t we find the minds that made us strong Can’t we learn to feel what’s right and wrong
it’s more of the lost lyric
By Robert (Justice Is The Best)
April 29, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this
I say that by the beginning of June this team will have somewhat of a different look. I will be very surprised if Davies makes another start; however, he did finish his outing strong. He kept his composure and kept the Braves in it. With that being said Villareal is a much better option as a starter. I would imagine that when Paronto comes off the DL Thursday that Davies will get sent down.
Harris is a stopgap unless he comes up and just blows the doors off the place. As I said in my previous post, I think JS wants to give Jones and Blanco another couple of weeks and see if their hot starts are for real. Another possbility could be to move Thorman to LF and put Wilson at 1B. I think both of them would do a lot better if they were playing everyday.
A trade could happen but I just don’t see what the Braves have to trade. I don’t think we should give up Salty unless its for somebody who will be here for awhile. I know I will receive the roll of the eyes on this but the Tampa Bay Devil Rays could come into play here. Not just Baldelli but a guy like Elijah Dukes would be a very good addition. The Rays need pitching and could flip Salty for that pitching. Before anyone asks why they wouldn’t just trade a Baldelli, Dukes, or Crawford for that pitcher, they would have an easier time getting some team to give up pitching for a switch hitting power hitting catcher who can also hit for average than they would a good young position player.
By N8
April 29, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this
SAL
“Why not either move Kelley Johnson back to outfield (LF) and bring up Prado to play 2B and bat 8th.”
Really? What makes you think that Prado’s track record, allows him ANY more success with the bat, in an extended tour of duty than that of Langerhans.
If THAT is the move, we were better off keeping Langerhans and staying status quo. Defensively the combination of Langy in LF and KJ at 2B is superior to KJ in LF and Prado at 2B, IMO.
Have you not noticed that KJ’s dedication (and his athleticism) and hard work with Hubbard in the off season and Spring Training have turned him into not only a very servicable 2B, but a damn good one, from what I’ve seen.
Your “option” of Blanco in LF and batting him 8th, is FAR MORE likely to happen than moving KJ back to LF (this year). They didn’t have him put all that work in at 2B to move him back to the OF in May. Get real.
DOB, I was SHOCKED to see this quote from Bobby an the Braves official site, when referring to Giles earlier in his career:
“”I don’t know how you can play it any better,” Cox said, adding that infield/first-base coach Glenn Hubbard put in all the work on him. “All winter. Drills, drills, drills. He taught [Marcus] Giles, too. Giles was a horrible second baseman” prior to working with Hubbard.”
Not untrue, just thought it was odd, that he would say that.
If only TP would have as much “success” with his hitters approaches as Hubbar does with his students.
By SomeYahoo77
April 30, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the leg work today. Lots’ of ungrateful dudes on this board, but don’t count me among them. There is so little quality Braves coverage on the ‘net that I appreciate everything you write about the club.
I had to turn today’s game off. Made my stomach turn, but I’m keeping the faith. Reality is that Wickman’s getting old and he’s kind of pitching like a dude who’s been on the beach too long after two many beers. He just looks toasted.
We have three solid closer-types and I think Bobby needs to spread the 9th inning love and let Gonzalez and Soriano share the big game load. Wickman doesn’t have the gas to give us a 35 save year. It would be sweet to see 20 from each of them.
Sad to see Langy go the Charles Thomas road, and sad to be traded for bag of balls and that ubiquitous “player to be named later,” but the dude didn’t have any more credit with the club. They had to put an end to it.
By KC
April 30, 2007 12:26 AM | Link to this
“You guys really shouldn’t get your expectations up too high with Harris. There’s a reason he has the career major league numbers that he has.”
Can’t speak for everyone, but I’m not expecting too much. As a hitter, I think Harris is commensurate to Orr or Woodward (not great). But I really like having his speed and base-stealing ablility on the bench. His versatility doesn’t hurt either.
By Wayne in UT
April 30, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this
A few thoughts about the day and the season so far. Not meaning to agree or be contentious, just my impressions.
I really like KJ and Thorman, and think Wilson will come around to his old numbers. I think Diaz is a very good part-timer. I hope Harris does well, but I keep thinking he is another Charles Thomas, here today, gone tomorrow.
It would be nice to try some other arms at the 4-5 spots, but it is not as easy as it seems. If you let Redman go, somebody will pick him up, without a doubt, as he has eaten some innings over the years, and could possibly benefit another club. Also, what if you bring up Smith or someone in Richmond, and they don’t do as well as you had hoped. “Anybody would be better than Redman and Davies.” is a statement I have read a few times. I am not so sure.
Could we give Villarreal a shot, yep, that would be a good plan. To do that you almost have to send Davies down, and I am OK with that too. I suspect the Braves are waiting on the return of Paranto before doing anything with Davies. Or maybe they are waiting to see what the outcome of Cormier will be.
I guess what I am trying to say is that patience is a virtue. The Braves will make changes, as evidenced by the Langerhans deal. Again, I hope Harris does well, but I don’t think he is the answer. Maybe we could trade for Reggie Sanders??? (almost kidding, but if we could get KC to pick up a lot of his salary and give them some midlevel prospect at the A level, I say go for it!)
Wickman will be OK. See Rivera and Hoffman this past week or so.
By Unhealthy
April 30, 2007 12:32 AM | Link to this
Do we have a conditioning coach? Every coach we have is fat. Now the players r also getting fat—ANDRUW! And my god WICKMAN and COX r almost the same size!!! These coaches r DANGEROUSLY overweight. Dammmit -DO SOMETHING.
By Wayne in UT
April 30, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this
Andruw sure looked slow coming around third in the 7th or 8th, whatever it was!
Enjoy southern California next year Andruw.
I hope we don’t over pay for a player I think is going to go into serious decline over the next 2-4 years.
By Wayne in UT
April 30, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this
If somehow this message could get to Bobby Cox by tomorrow afternoon, please tell him: “Bobby, no matter who is starting for the Phils, leave Thorman on 1B, and put Wilson or Diaz in LF, NO MATTER WHO. Let’s see if this platoon stuff is all it’s cracked up to be.
If Thorman had as many AB’s as the other starters, he would be second on the team in RBI’s (prorated). Is Wilson’s arm ok for throws from left?? Send him out there if it is.
(Secretly, I wish Thorman was good enough in LF, as I think someday we might need to open up 1B for McCann and Salty in a c/1b sharing role.)
By serbok
April 30, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this
Robert~ regarding your 11:41 post The last song Roger will be doing before he takes a 15 minute intermission break~ Is “Sheep” then he comes back and will do DSOTM in its entirety:o) I too cannot respect the “herd” mentality~ DOB~ I appreciate the work you do on this blog~ Its very cool! keep shining on you crazy diamond~ like the moon and the stars and the sun~ cuz we All shine on~
By Coach
April 30, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this
Langerhans , see you dude ! Better luck in Oakland. Well , the Braves offense might get better if they utilize Willy’s speed. However , this roster move makes the defense worse. Hudson and Smoltz have combined for 10 quality starts. James , Davies and Redman have 3 combined. In defense of James , he would have a couple of more except for the fact that he needs to pitch deeper into the game. When the season started , I said wild card contender and this team has done nothing to change my opinion.
By Wayne in UT
April 30, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this
DOB
A hearfelt thanks for all your work on our (the fans) behalf. I know it’s gotta be tough on both you, the player, and his teammates when a player gets traded. It is easy from the happy confines of our keyboards to say, “Let’s trade off this guy or that guy, cause he’s a bum, he can’t hit….” It’s a little more difficult when that “bum” is a nice person, and one you have grown fond of.
All the best to Ryan Langerhans. Hope he has a 270/15/70 year in Oakland, and plays some great CF. See you in the WS Ryan!
By gotigers72
April 30, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this
Bobby was right about Marcus being a “horrible second baseman” at one time. I watched him play a lot at AA Greenville, and he could hit like a mother, but I always wondered where they would play him. I expected him to be moved to the outfield or something. He was that bad. Now he’s one of the better defensive second basemen in MLB.
I also saw KJ play at Greenville and he was a horrible fielding SS. Made over 40 errors there one year. But he could also hit like a mother. I wasn’t surprised to see him come to the majors as an outfielder. So far, he has shown up as an above average second baseman defensively. Tomorrow at your local playhouse, “The Miracle Worker” starring Glenn Hubbard.
By Coach
April 30, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this
In the meantime , Those Richmond Braves are smoking hot. They drilled the Norfolk Tides 11-0 Sunday and swept the four game series. Gregor Blanco smashed his first homerun , a grand slam in the fifth inning to blow the game open. They lead the International league with a 15-5 record.
By caveman22
April 30, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this
word on Marcus Giles I was the head bouncer at a very popular club in Atlanta called American Pie. Giles used to hang out with Ken Caminiti and they would come in a get pretty hammered. I was in charge so I had to keep an I an celebrity clientele. I always told Marcus to think like a Weeble—Weebles wobble but they don’t fall down. Every now an again he would get his beer and his “spit” bottle mixed up and that’s just a visual that sticks with you. He was in his first year with Atlanta and we always took notice of what their play was like the day after. When Hubbard put the foot down on Giles, and Caminiti was not around to influence, Giles made noticeable improvement in his defense. I met Hubbard twice and while not only being my alltime favorite Brave is known around the majors as one of the best teachers of young talent on the intracies and postioning parts of playing the 2-bag. That’s why you’ve never heard one word from me on KJ, he’s in the right hands of the right man for the right side of the infield.
Go Bravos!!!!
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 2:27 AM | Link to this
Wow, alot of stuff since I last posted on Friday….
First off, I see a DL stint for Bob Wickman. Something is not right with him and I think him not being honest about it probably cost Atlanta the game today.
Second, Langerhans gone. I must say I was surprised by that, I thought it could happen but didn’t really think it would for a while. I hope he can rebound in Oakland, always liked the guy just thought his bat was too big a liability to justify his great glove…
Our bats are on fire. I know we usually always do well in Colorado but man, between Chipper, KJ, Renteria, Francoeur and now Thorman this lineup is really clicking. And hey, this talk about Saltalamacchia as being great trade bait, what about Brayan Pena? That guy looks like a Johnny Estrada clone to me, plus he is better than Estrada and McCann at throwing out runners. And on the pitching front, how about Yates looking like another legitimate closer candidate. He hit 98 on the gun a few times today, between him and Moylan I think it really gives us major depth in the bullpen.
And don’t panic everyone, a 5-4 road trip is not the end of the world. We really had no business even being in that game today with our pitching giving up 12 walks. These next two series’ are really important. Always need to beat a team within the division (especially one that’s playing better as of late) and then after Philly its the Dodgers, the team with the best record in the NL. If we can go 4-2 in those 6 that will be huge, any better would be gravy…
By A.J.
April 30, 2007 2:28 AM | Link to this
I really hate to see Langerhans go. I just respect the guy.
He never once didn’t run a play out. He would turn any bloop single into a double if the other team was slow collecting it. And he really did have potential. He wouldn’t have hit .300 or anything, but he really is so much better than this.
Obviously the trade is because he hit like .245 last season, and that wasn’t good enough. We came into this season hoping he could hit well about that. So as bad as he was doing this season you got to the point where you are just hoping that he can get back to hitting .245. I think when you are holding out hope that a guy can hit .245, you realize that it may be time to give up.
I really do think that he could be better than the .245, but maybe not so much better that it really makes it worth keeping him from a winning ballgames perspective, and that’s the one you have to decide from.
Still it is sad when a guy gets dealt in a situation like Langerhans when he was struggling so much, because you just feel like in the end you were judged by that slump. And honestly, as disappointing as he had been through the slump, I still was legitimately having fun rooting for him because you just know how great it would feel if he really truly came out of it. Even with the strides he made the last two games, it is clear he wasn’t out of it. I am at least glad he got to end with a good solid hit today and an RBI.
I am also glad Diaz might get a chance to be an every day guy now. I’d love it if he could do it. Another great guy who you just root for.
The good thing about this is that it does give Willie Harris the reward for all his hard work this spring and so far. He seems to have handled this situation with a real good work ethic and attitude even when it was clear that, as well as he was doing, he wouldn’t make the team.
I really do hope the best for Langerhans. Even though he is much better than he had been lately, it looks like maybe he just won’t be able to piece it all together to really be a solid player. But you can’t fault him for that, because he’s a guy that you know, if hard work made you good, he’d be great. It’s ashame a guy like him doesn’t have the ability of an Andruw because he’d be the best player of all time.
Because of the way he played (maybe he just reminds me of myself in Little League: tries hard but just doesn’t have it), Langy is probably my favorite of the Baby Braves (or at least up there with McCann). I hope Langy does find a way to piece it together and gets some measure of reward for all his hard work.
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 3:08 AM | Link to this
Here is the direction I see the pitching staff going from here on out…
1) Davies will get sent down as soon as Paronto is healthy and ready to return to the bullpen.
2) Villareal moves into the #4 spot in the rotation.
3) Moylan takes over Villareal’s role as the innings-eater/mop-up duty guy.
4) Paronto takes over Moylan’s current role in the bullpen.
5) Redman gets skipped as often as possible in the rotation(when days off allow for it) and barring any back to back complete disasters he stays there for the whole season and gets around 20 starts.
What do you guys think? I think that gives us our absolute best possible combination of pitchers for right now… If Cormier comes back healthy then maybe you cut Redman or send Colyer back to AAA and move villareal back to the bullpen.
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this
To me, it is clear that Davies needs to be sent down to the minors while Villareal should be given a shot to start… Redman is Redman; every other game he will give us a chance to win. Which for a 5th starter is not that bad; When it really hurts a team is when both the 4 and 5 starters only give you a 50% chance to win (at most).
By Coach
April 30, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this
Troy Tulowizski’s triple play wasn’t the only eye opening defensive display that caught my attention during this three game set , or rather the lack of a defensive display from Edgar Renteria. Atlanta’a SS has a big bat that contributes a great deal of the offense that we have seen so far from the Braves. But it’s his lack of range and poor throwing arm that have contributed to the pitching woes of the Braves. He gives up ground balls that should be outs and turns them into hits , forcing the pitcher to get four outs in an inning. I guess we have to take the bad with the good until Escobar or Andrus will be deemed ready to take over at SS. the Braves are scoring runs at a 5.37 clip per game , slightly ahead of last seasons 5.22 average.
By A.J.
April 30, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this
*”…given Torre’s poor track record in the playoffs the past several years he better straighen things out by the all star break. Personally I think Torre is too passive and quiet as a manager and the teams play tends to reflect that.”
I saw this post under an ESPN article about Joe Torre. I will go on record as saying I think any Torre firing would be stupid, but regardless, I though this was funny.
Whether you’ve won 1 series in 15 playoff seasons or 4 in 11 you still will be crucified for that other 14 or that other 7.
I think that if I could fail to win the World Series in six straight seasons and still have won a Series in 36% of my seasons I’d be pretty pumped.
Just shows you how hard it is to win even one.
By Spike
April 30, 2007 3:16 AM | Link to this
I think most people are missing the most serious point of Wickman’s last few outings. His comments after todays game lead me to believe that he may have some physical issues that are not related to his weight. I didn’t hear one person complain last year about his size when he came to Atlanta and turned our entire bullpen around. He was a freakin’ saviour. A couple of bad outings and everyone is crying for Gonzo. It was just a couple of weeks ago that everyone was crying about trading LaRoche because Gonzo was throwing the ball all over the place. I hope Wickman is OK, because if he has a bad back or something worse it would be a devastating blow to the Braves and the bullpen. Bad decision by Bobby (again) to leave him too long, but are you surprised? That’s Bobby. He gives his players a loooooong rope and always has. Live with it. Gonzalez may very well be the closer of the future, but let’s hope he gets the job after Wicky steps down and not because of injury. Hope I’m wrong. Anyone notice that Yates has been in three bases loaded situations and only given up one run. Good stuff, thanks this time to Frenchy. Anyone notice that Moylan’s ERA came down from 91.00 to under 3.00? Really good stuff. Jason in Maine…Are you related to Sturtze? Don’t understand the fixation with him when we have others who deserve the shot more.
By jed
April 30, 2007 3:31 AM | Link to this
shocked to see langerhans gone so fast, and traded for nothing apparently in return. rough. it doesnt surprise me that dob speaks so highly of him. seems like a good guy. and i still think he’ll eventually be a .270 hitter and a solid CF. best of luck, ryan.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 3:35 AM | Link to this
WARNING, MUSIC POST AHEAD:
The Joseph Arthur show was terrific. If he’s coming to your town, I’d recommend shelling out the $12 or so (that’s all it was here in Denver) to see some real rock and roll. He played in a dive bar here, a perfect setting for his whole grungy look and sound.
Got a great band with him now, including the cutest chick bass player you will ever, ever see. Seriously.
Five-piece band, three guitars, bass, drums. And they played for nearly two hours, at times sounding like early Stones, greasy-blues rock. It’s a bit of a new direction for him, a full-on band like this and a more rockin’ sound. It’s great stuff, even though I liked his early stuff at least as much. He played a lot of that, too, some with just his guitar and without the band.
Joseph got behind the drums for a song, and he can seriously play. Played guitar the rest of the night. The stuff off the brand-new album is really strong, and you can tell the band loves playing it.
He also made a comment about how much this dive _ the Larimer Lounge _ reminded him of some places he used to play when he lived in Atlanta. He mentioned The Point and Dottie’s.
If you’re going, I’d suggest getting there early enough to see the opening band, if it’s same as what I saw. They have an unfortunate name _ Stars of Track and Field _ but a really good band from Portland, Oregon. They sound a lot like the Doves on several songs, other times part Coldplay, part Stone Roses, a little My Morning Jacket.
Alright, time to crash. Flight home tomorrow morning (or this morning).
By Bill
April 30, 2007 3:53 AM | Link to this
Hated to see Langy go but it was for the best. When are you people going to realize that Diaz is not an everyday player. He can’t run or field. He will make a few good plays. He’s just a bench player. Plain and simple. LF is not the biggest problem. They had better start doing something with the starting pitching.
By Spike
April 30, 2007 3:54 AM | Link to this
Don C Good post. I agree on all points. Paronto’s back, Davies is down(and I’ll go out on a limb and say he’ll be back before the end of the year)and Moylan has to stay.
DOB…forgot to chime in on the weekend blog issue. Best blog in baseball by far, so any day your up for it we’re all here.Great to hear your insight, great to hear from all the informed and literate bloggers…and Robert too.
By Coach
April 30, 2007 4:25 AM | Link to this
Don , the Braves may be grooming somebody for the rotation and it’s not Villarreal. Both Davies and Redman could be replaced in a week or two. I just have hunch about this. We will just have to wait and see how it plays out. The schedule favors us this week. Hudson and James pitch against the Phillies and Thursday is an off day allowing Hudson to come back to pitch on Saturday behind Smoltz’s start on Friday. The Braves should have a favorable chance to take two out of three against both the Phillies and Dodgers.
By Turnip
April 30, 2007 6:53 AM | Link to this
Robert…. Time for you to get out of your parent’s basement an get a real job as your inter personal and social skills must suck. For a person of profess intelligence you still don’t get it.
I have dealt with people just like you on both a personal and a professional level. No question you have an answer for everything but you cannot stand it for someone to disagree with you. When they do you unleash vile insults and invective to try to belittle others. In reality you only belittle yourself.
You will not let anything go, you will repeatedly bleat on driving the rest of us to near insanity. Perhaphs it is your cry for attention, your need to be recognized. I do not have the answer.
I am just tired of it. I have enjoyed the lighthearted time on the blog and the information gleaned here about the team but you Robert make the experience unworthwhile.
So long friends….
By Me
April 30, 2007 7:26 AM | Link to this
Fritz the cat: since the Jews don’t believe in your false messiah, the it would appear that they are the only ones telling the truth. Not exactly rocket science to see that.
By Me
April 30, 2007 7:26 AM | Link to this
Fritz the cat: since the Jews don’t believe in your false messiah, the it would appear that they are the only ones telling the truth. Not exactly rocket science to see that.
By Yars
April 30, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this
I think some of us are jumping ahead of ourselves when talking about W. Harris. He can play OF, 2B, & 3B. Chipper looked a little banged up yesterday. He will need to take a day off every now & then really soon from the looks of things. I’d much rather see what Harris can give us at 3B than Woodward or Orr. Perhaps the reason Harris was called up is because he has speed. When he starts either in LF, 3B, ect…. I’m sure Bobby will have him hitting in the #8 spot in the order. Instead of only counting on someone like Renteria or Chipper to knock him in, KJ has also proved he can deliver clutch hits. I still say KJ would thrive in the #6 spot, or even the #3. Regarding Langerhans, I hate to se him go like most of you. From how DOB described him, he was a class act. I hope he succeeds in Oakland. About the starting pitching, both Redman & Davies have got to go. Release Redman, & send Davies back to Richmond. I know Matt Harrison didn’t have a great spring, but if by June he is still dominating AA ball, I say bring him up for a start & see what he can do. Why not? The bullpen is already being overused & we aren’t even into May yet. I think we are going to be battling the Mets the entire season, along with the Phils. Redman & Davies are nothing but automatic losses for us. Like some of you have already stated, we should be 18-6 right now.
By Joey
April 30, 2007 8:02 AM | Link to this
promise Wickman a beer and some donuts after the game and I promise he will get the job done. Loose some weight and start taking the game serious.
By h_charles
April 30, 2007 8:24 AM | Link to this
Cox style: Cox isn’t perfect. He has two managerial traits that aren’t necessarily lflaws, but their persistance can lead to losses. (1) He shows too much confidence in his players: A great characteristic most of the time, and big picture, the way you want your manager to be. The problem comes in game to game when Cox leaves his pitcher in one batter too long. He did it with Hudson and he does it with Wick. By the time Cox makes the move, it is too late. (2) Cox is the second coming of Earl Weaver. Don’t bunt. Don’t hit and run. Don’t steal. Wait for the 3 run bomb. AGain, this strategy works big picture. However, it costs you when you go up against a great pitcher. when you need to win a game 1-0 or 2-1, you have to play for one run. Cox just doesn’t do that. That is why the Braves struggle in the postseason after feasting in the regular season.
Wick: Wickman is hurting. His lower back is bothering him (no shock there with that belly). He won’t complain, but you could see the wincing a few outings ago. He needs some time off. I just hope the injury wasn’t caused by Cox using him EVERY day, including with 4 run leads.
Harris: Harris is hot right now in the minors. Good move to bring him up. However, if you watched baseball beyond ATL, Harris would be familiar. He is not a long term solution, and really no more than a role player. He does have speed, however, and ANYTHING is better than what Langy was offering. What may have spelled the end for him was Diaz improvement in left. Diaz is exponentially better out there than he was last year. He still is average at best, but last year there were times he was clueless.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this
I found an article today by Dayn Perry that proves your point (s0rt of). He now claims to be a Braves fan after years of hatred, but do you believe him? I don’t. You can’t hate a team and say the disgusting things he says and then claim they are your second favorite team, can you?
Could it be that Dayn Perry actually tries to be objective?
Nah. You absolutely are not allowed to write or say anything bad about a team you like, no matter what.
By beachcomber
April 30, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this
Using a logic that was prevalent in the ‘50’s and 60’s, let’s trade for that damned shortstop of the the Rockies. Don’t play him, just keep him from killing us. What a show he put on this weekend. Funny how some teams have very mediocre players who just kill us - like Redman, the catcher, when he was with the Marlins. And my two cents worth on Langy, just hope a change of scenery will help - seems like a class kid. Harris is probably as good a stopgap measure as any. He has been hot for two months. Use him until or if he cools down.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
Are the Braves better off with Willie Harris rather than Langerhans?
Well, the Braves get cash and another player plus Willie Harris, basically, so it’s a decent move.
If we’re just looking at replacing Langerhans with Harris, it doesn’t look so good.
Harris is a career .238 AVG/ .306 OBP/ .294 SLG hitter. The positives: He’s versatile and is fast. But he shouldn’t be allowed to take too many plate appearances from guys who can actually hit. Harris is basically a pinch-runner.
Many are going to look at Langerhans’s very slow start and conclude the Braves are better off with Harris. But it’s only the end of April. It shouldn’t surprise anyone if Langerhans’s bounces back and ends up having a career year. He’s 28 and is a career .243/.337/.379 hitter who plays solid defense.
I don’t think this would qualify as a bad trade for the Braves as they already have a leftfielder who can hit in Matt Diaz. Plus they’ll get another player and cash. But we shouldn’t judge it on Willie Harris replacing Ryan Langerhans. If we do, it’s not such a great move.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 9:39 AM | Link to this
Tonight’s game is a big game. We already know that we will lose tomorrow night, so getting a win tonight will allow us to go for the series win on Thursday.
By Coach
April 30, 2007 9:39 AM | Link to this
http://www.theonion.com/content/news/mlbcreditshankaaronwith_50
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
Shaun, they’ll get a player to be named OR cash, not both….
h_charles, good points. I agree with much, perhaps most. Not that it matters if I do, they’re good points….
Joey, let me assure you that Wickman takes the game quite seriously. It doesn’t show in the form of a ripped physique, but believe me that’s not a good indicator in many instances. I can show you a whole lot of players, including dozens of major league pitchers, with ripped abs who don’t take the game or their craft half as seriously as Wickman does….
Turnip, well said.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this
Obviously, I meant Wednesday…
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this
beachcomber,
Not meaning to nitpick but Tulowitzki is no Mike Redmond. He was one of the best shortstops in the nation just a couple of years ago at Long Beach State. He spent some time at A and AA and was ready for the majors. He definitely is not a mediocre player.
Speaking of guys like Tulowitzki, we’re already seeing that the 2005 draft may have been one of the best ever as a lot of the talent from that draft has already spent time in the majors.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
April 30, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this
Y’all folks can try to lynch Bobby Cox all you want to, but the fact of the matter is, you can’t give up 13 walks and expect to win in the major leagues. Especially in Coors field. Bobby doesn’t throw the pitches. With that said, Wickman will be fine. Pitchers go through slumps, too. And I’m sure his big-a$$ will be glad to get out of Colorado. Let the man catch his breath, feed him a rack of ribs, and send him back out there Tuesday. He’ll probably get another day off Wednesday when Redman pitches…(As a true Braves fan, can I say that?)
By Drummerdad
April 30, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this
The description DOB gave of Langerhans having realizations whie he was talking was moving. It always struck me that he was one of the guys.
On Joseph Arthur: does anybody in his band play percussion? hand instruments like conga, shakers, or shekere? From going to his web site seems like he has a love for Africa. Two of the sound bites I heard on there were heavy on shekere. Lew, please let me know when you’ve got Hemmingway done. Journalist Jimmy Smith, you are a funny man.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
O’Brien,
My bad. So they’ll get either a player or cash and Willie Harris. They still get more than just Willie Harris, which is good.
By Savannah Guy
April 30, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
What’s Wrong With Wickman? Hmmm…let me see if I can figure this out. First, he’s no spring chicken. He’s going to get tired quicker and more often than a pitcher in his 20’s or early 30’s. He could offset that by staying in tip-top physical shape, but noooo…he’s on the 57 cheeseburgers a day diet.
Is anybody really confused about his performance? With athletes, you can’t look at past accomplishments and capabilities in years gone by to guage current performance.
So, what’s wrong with Wickman? He’s fat and out of shape. You can’t be fat and expect to play your best in any kind of sport except maybe Sumo wrestling. Period.
BRING IN SORIANO.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this
From an article in the NJ Star Ledger:
“That the Tigers, who hold a $13 million contract option on Ivan Rodriguez for 2008, have been looking around for catching prospects in case they need or decide to replace him. They have their eye on Atlanta’s Jarrod Saltalamacchia, who’s extremely well regarded but blocked by the presence of stud catcher Brian McCann on the big-league club.”
For what it’s worth…
By Coach
April 30, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this
http://www.theonion.com/content/news/mlb credits hank aaron with 50
By Joshhh
April 30, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this
Are some of you seriously bashing Bobby Cox??? You have to be ridiculous to bash him. He put his closer in, in the 9th inning?? Wow terrible move Bobby. Oh wait that is when he should come in and do his job.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
April 30, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this
*SERBOK
Do you ever listen to any of Roger Waters solo stuff? He played alot of it when I saw him in Dallas a few years back. Every Stranger’s Eyes, off The Pros and Cons of Hitchiking. The Bravery of Being out of Range, Perfect Sense, and Amused to Death all rocked the house pretty good.
He pretty much covered everything from you hear on the radio as well as stuff like Set the Controls For the Heart of the Sun, SouthHamton Dock, Pigs on the Wing I, Dogs. When the Speakers erupt with the sound of a jet fighter at the beginning of Get Your Filthy Hands Off My Dessert, you’ll swear you’re under attack.
And I gotta believe he’ll do something special in memory of Syd Barrett since he recently passed away.
Damn I’m jealous.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Savannah Guy, tell that to about 97 percent of NFL linemen _ they make Wickman looked like a marathoner….
Speaking of truly well-conditioned athletes, a tip of the cap to the mighty Suzanne Yoculan and her newly crowned _ or re-crowned, as it were _ NCAA champion gymastics team from the U. of Georgia. Three straight titles for The Lady and her ladies….
OK, our man out west needs to come in with a review of the weekend Coachella music festival in the next day or two (I’ll give him that much time to recover from the traffic, triple-digit temps, and whatever else he’ll need to recover from). Need to know how the Rage Against the Machine reunion went, how Arcade Fire did in that huge setting, etc.
By beachcomber
April 30, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
Shaun - Nor do I mean to nitpick but even after a career weekend, the man is hitting .205. Don’t doubt he was great in college but the landfills are littered with college hotshots. The point was some guys own certain teams - probably the all time example of that was a Tiger’s pitcher named Frank Lary back before most of the bloggers here were born. He owned the powerful 1950’s New York Yankees - beating them seven times in one season alone but was only 12 games over .500 for his career.
By al ahyes
April 30, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
Why would Cox bring in an obvious no cofident Wickman throwing balls, when you have Yates ready to throw 90 miles per hour heat?
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
Drummerdad, yes, several folks pull out some percussion intstruments along the way, though I gotta admit i don’t even know what a shekere is (other than an extremely, extremely sexy Colombian singer).
I think at least three of them pulled out tambourines (that counts, right?) along the way.
He uses loop pedals for some effects. But not anything like when i saw him solo, without a backing band, and he used the loop pedals for a one-man band thing years ago, when I saw him open for Wilco.
This is a real, organic sounding bluesy rock band now. You gotta see this show. But Joseph Arthur himself is an amazing and versatile musician, and the stuff he does with an acoustic guitar and the “rock star pedal” and all the other junk, is so cool in a small environment like I saw them in. But it’s that voice and those lyrics that do it, for me. Great stuff.
By Berto
April 30, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
The best thing about the “Langy Trade” isnt that we lose his .068 batting average… the reason why JS traded him was so he doesnt have to look at those stupid “Langer Hands” guys in the stands anymore. Those clowns were driving fans away! They were probably the reason Ryan wasnt hitting.
… But seriously, Ryan, you will be missed! Well, at least your glove will be.
By Novice Ned
April 30, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
Schuerholtz did what he had to do to get Langerhans out of the line-up against right handed pitchers, he traded him. DOB, interesting stats about how many non-save opportunities Wickman has pitched. Some of that, I’m guessing, was late game scoring after Wick was warming up. But still, it’s amazing how Torre is blamed for overusing his bullpen when Cox has always done the same. Glad to see Wilson earn his paycheck this past weekend, too. And too bad Thorman is stuck in a platoon situation, as he clearly could use 4-5 consecutive starts to get on a roll. But that won’t likely happen this year.
By Savannah Guy
April 30, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
DOB…of course you are correct about 97% NFL linemen…and no doubt there are plenty of acceptions to every rule. But, NFL linemen don’t pitch a baseball very well either. So, concerning baseball (and most any other sport): being seriously overweight is a problem. You might be able to knock linemen out of the way and block by sheer girth and strength…but you can’t sustain good play in baseball being fat. Just stating the obvious that everyone seems to be overlooking. If it winds up being an arm problem, will we blame it on fat-altered mechanics, breathing control or just bad luck?
Hey, Wick is the best closer we’ve had in a while…but, even considering we all like him, he’s close to done. If he gets in shape we’ll get another season out of him…maybe as a mid-relief guy.
By DC Braves Fan
April 30, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
DOB RE: Coachella:
While RATM was definitely the highlight (and sounded like they haven’t lost a beat), the Roots also came strong, including an epic 15-minute-plus version of Bob Dylan’s “Masters of War” which they began by singing the anti-establishment lyrics to the melody of the national anthem!
RE: the Bravo’s new OF - I understand why they called up the versatile Harris (had a great spring and so far a great start), but at some point this season, do you think we’ll see B. Jones or McCarthy - both of which have more power, a great thing for a corner outfielder. I don’t understand why they don’t want to give B. Jones some seasoning at the show…especially if there’s a chance that he replaces AJ next year. Why not get him some PT now with the comfort of AJ next to him. I think AJ started as a LF/RF with the likes of Lofton, Grissom, etc. in center, giving him some comfort before “handing him the keys” to CF.
By Jim
April 30, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this
If Willie Harris is nothing more than Charles Thomas that will be perfect. Charles Thomas, and years earlier Bob “Hurricane” Hazel, were not the best OF prospect in the Braves organization, but they were the hottest. If Harris can come up and give us a couple of months like Thomas and Hazel, then that is all we really need from him. He is holding down a spot until Brandon Jones is ready to claim it. A 250 hiutter with speed added into the rest of this line-up is all we really need. The much more urgent need is for pitching!
By Lew
April 30, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Hillbilly-I’ve got to agree with you on Wicky. He’ll be fine. The ribs sound pretty good-especially if I can use my special Hickory/Jalepeno sauce on them. Didn’t someone mention the other day that Waters was playing Tampa soon? Maybe he’ll make it to Hillbilly country, too.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
DC Braves Fan _ thanks for the review, sir. Roots are such a great live band.
As for LF, dude, this is not the time to give young players “seasoning” and prepare them to take over next season. This is the time to do whatever you can do within your means to win NOW, not next year. They obviously want Brandon Jones to get more experience before they bring him up, and they don’t want him sitting on the bench, getting sporadic at-bats. That’s the role for a veteran or non-prospect, generally.
But in Jones’ case, he’s not on the 40-man, he’s very young, and this isn’t the time to start his options clock and simply hope he’s ready to contribute. Next year is next year, and it isn’t even remotely in the Braves’ minds as they concern themselves with winning right now. I know they’re looking around to other teams and talking to people, it’s just that not many teams are ready to move guys this early, not impact guys.
Harris is, indeed, a stopgap guy as some have said here. Soon as they can get a productive guy to stick in there for the rest of the season, I think they’d make such a move.
By KC
April 30, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
DOB: Any news on the rotation? Have there been any hints of anything… such as Villarreal moving to the rotation, or someone else being called up from Richmond or Miss.??
While Wickman will get the blame for last night’s loss… we did give up 5 runs through the first 5 innings. Had that not been the case, we would most likley have won the game. Every time Davies or Redman takes the mound, we’re asking the offense and the bullpen to be nearly perfect and bail them out. That just can’t happen every time.
We need to fix the back end of the rotation! Any news? Please say yes!
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this
beachcomber,
It’s still only the end of April and it’s still very early in Tulowzki’s career. He’s not a .205 hitter. It will be a shock if he’s not an All-Star caliber SS soon.
Yes, there are a lot of college hot shots in the majors but the best of the best college hitters like him usually become at least very good major leaguers.
Don’t want to get into, but from what I’ve read there isn’t much evidence that certain guys “own” certain teams.
Looking at Frank Lary’s splits, yes he won a lot against the Yankees but he actually pitched just as good or better against several other teams. He faced the Yankees 10 more times than he did any other team. He actually posted better ERA’s against the Orioles, White Sox and Twins—all teams he faced over 25 times. His career ERA is actually lower than his ERA vs. the Yankees.
Not trying to get into a debate, just trying to bring out the facts. Fact is Lary wasn’t any more dominant against the Yankees as he was against other teams.
By BossLady
April 30, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this
Well, DOB Langerhans is gone so you’ll get a break from the constant Langy comments.
By BossLady
April 30, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this
By the way Pork Chili will kill you…
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this
KC,
I hear ya. When I posted the blurb about the Tigers looking into Salty, I was kind of hoping that the Braves were looking for some pitching. I know they are hard to come by and are getting a king’s ransom right now, but one more quality starter would sure make this team look that much better!
Regards,
Jason
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this
DOB: I don’t know if DonC or some one else made it to Coachella, but I did not. It is an unfortunate circumstance. Family matters arose. My wife and I have two grandmothers left. One is 96 and well on her way to living to 140, the most amazing woman I’ve ever met. The other is in her 80’s and nearing her time. It was a weekend of re-arranging as she fell ill with complications due to conjestive heart failure. She is doing better, not great. She’s still in the hospital. If it’s not one thing it’s another I suppose. There was sadness all around. I was really looking forward to going to the festival. Willie Nelson opened for Rage. Willie Nelson. Oh well.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this
I wish Langerhans teh best of luck. I think this is a good move for all concerned, and I’m damn sure not going to miss seeing those lame Langerhands, that could be the weakest entry ever into that oeuvre.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
B. Jones hit 2 HRs and drove in 4 runs and Harrison pitched six shutout innings allowing 2 hits, 2 BBs, and registering 3 Ks. While they may not be ready yet, it appears they will be knocking on the door soon…Maybe even as early as next year.
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
KC,
They are going to give Davies and Redman more starts. Do you really want to bring up Dan Smith??? Nah man.
Amazing. This pitching staff is a far cry from what I thought we had in spring training. The only pleasent suprise has been Tyler Yates in my mind. Chuck James and Mike Gonzalez have struggled, and Wickman is going to lose his job in early May. I worry every time this team is in a tight game. I was kind of hoping it wouldn’t be even close to last year, but it is. This team should be 17-7 right now as suppose to 15-9. Those losses sting, especially with the Phillies Dodgers and Padres coming to town. That is as tough a home stand as you can get.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this
So where do you bat Harris 7th? Figuring if he gets on and steals Thor or Wilson can drive him in? Anyone know what kind of arm he has and how he’s thought of defensively?
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this
And who says Blanco has no power? He hit a grand salami last night for his 1st HR (:
By fastasballs
April 30, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this
A 5-4 trip was good, although 7-2 & 1 1/2 up on the Muts would have been great.
I really didn’t think Wickman in the 9th was a good move for two reasons.
1) He has been used a ton early and he couldn’t handle the the thin air as Thursday’s game proved. He could have been fully rested for the Phillies series.
2) He’s a contact pitcher & the spacious outfield of Coors would work against him.
Yates or Gonzo would have been better choices in this particular situation. After the two walks he should have been yanked right then. Loyalty is one thing, winning is the only thing in that situation.
Am I saying Wickamn is not the closer, of course not. He has earned it & proved he is the man. But he also proved Thursday why he doesn’t need to pitch in Colorado.
On another positive note the offense is on fire. Moved up to 6th in batting average .264. Remove Langerhans & they would be third at a .275 clip. Not bad at all.
I think Harris will do ok & maybe his speed will win a game they shouldn’t to make up for the one yesterday.
If Harris does not work out by the end of May & Jones continues his good work at AA we might just see him in left. It’s obvious Blanco is not high on the management’s list & Jones name is the one talked about the most.
I would love to see him in left, Oscar moved to the #4 starters spot, Davies sent down, Moylen in long relief, & Redman sent anywhere but to the mound with a ball in his hand.
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this
KC: Wickman will get the blame, and rightly so. Despite the early troubles we had already come back. We were 1 out away from winning when he blew it. We had the lead going into the 9th inning. It was ours to lose and we lost it. All the early inning mistakes, miscues and triple plays had been made up for. All that was left to do was get 3 quick outs. Wickman didn’t do it, and we lost.
Davies started looking a little better by the time he was taken out. He retired his last four hitters in a row. He’s struggling, no doubt, but he has way more promise and potential than Redman does. Redman is done. We should have left him in the basement. He and Jose Lima could’ve played catch with Mondesi all season and had a blast.
By KC
April 30, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this
JasonInMaine: I think finding one more quality starter would leave this team without a major flaw.
I’m confident that we can find someone decent for the 5th slot in the rotation… between Cormier (when he gets healthy), Villarreal, or one of our kids on the farm, I’m sure we can find someone to do a decent job in the 5 slot. But I’m not supremely confident that we’ll be able to find two quality starters within the organization to help us this year.
But if the Braves could get another quality starter, The rotation would be fixed (don’t worry about Chuck James folks, he’s just fine).
And while Wickman’s blown a couple saves… he’ll be just fine as well. And if not, we’ve got two dominant closers waiting in the wings.
The offense with the emergence of Kelly Johnson, along with a couple bats that are waking up at the bottom of the order, is in great shape. Sure, it would be great to get another big bat in LF, but this offense is going to score a lot of runs regardless.
If we can fix the back end of the rotation, I think this team will be without a weakness. Imperfections, sure… but no other weaknesses.
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
EL DUQUE is scheduled to get his shoulder examined. I hate rooting for a guy to get injured, but if he is, the Mets have to turn to our good friend JORGE SOSA!!!!
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
Just got this off wikipedia…so it must be true
Willie’s career playoff batting average is 1.000 Willie’s career batting average versus Roger Clemens is .500 Willie’s career batting average versus Pedro Martinez is .667 Willie’s career batting average versus Greg Maddux is .333 Willie’s career batting average versus Bartolo Colon is .500
Also he bats L and throws R…a little freaky, no?
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
KC,
Agreed. I wouldn’t mind Nate Robertson form Detroit. He is the type of we need for the 3-4 spot in the rotation and isn’t overly expensive…
Regards,
Jason
By KC
April 30, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
TennPaul: Agreed on all counts. Wickman deserves the blame for blown saves, just as he deserves credit for converted opportunities.
But while Wickman may take full responsibility for the loss, and many fans will be more than happy to slap him with the blame… the full responsibility for that loss does not belong on Wickman’s shoulders. There were two pitching failures that led to that loss: Davies failure to give the Braves more than 4 runs over 4 innings, and Wickman’s botched 9th.
I’m not saying Wickman doesn’t deserve any blame. I’m simply pointing out that if the Braves had given up 3 or 4 runs over the first 5 or 6 innings (not too much to ask of even an average starter), instead of 5 runs over 5 innings… we would have won that game. My point is not to assign blame to anyone. It is to say that we need to fix the bottom of this rotation ASAP. The bullpen and offense can’t bail Davies and Redman out every single time.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
Shaun’s right about Tulowitzki _ he’s going to be very good.
Shaun’s wrong, of course, about there being no “evidence” that certain guys own certain teams. Ask most anyone who plays or manages or coaches baseball, or covers it, or watches it as something other than an automaton, and they can tell you he’s wrong.
Of course, by “evidence” maybe Shaun needs DNA or a a PECOTA printout or an actual deed to ownership of a team. Because, just off the top of my head, the first guy I thought of to look up for for evidence when i read his assertion … Shawn Green vs. Braves?
Or is this not evidence enough: Green has a .346 average (82-for-237) with 24 homers, 62 RBIs, a .429 OBP and absurd .700 slugging percentage in 64 games vs. the Braves. A homer in slightly less than every 10 at-bats.
This from a career .283 hitter with a .499 slugging percentage and 321 homers in 6,725 at-bats, or one every 21 at-bats.
Green has played more than 30 games against 28 major league teams, and against those teams his next-highest average is .311 and next-highest slugging percentage is .614, and both of those are in only 31 games against lowly Tampa Bay.
His next-highest homer total is 20, and that’s vs. Colorado in 63 more games than he’s played against the Braves (and from what I recall, there’ve been a whole lot of homers hit at Coors Field). His next-highest homer total after that is 19 vs. San Diego in 117 games (53 more games than he’s played against the Braves).
Green is on the downside of his career now _ well, against everyone but the Braves.
He’s hit .356 (36-for-101) with 11 homers and 25 RBIs in 27 games against Atlanta since Aug. 19, 2004, or one homer every 9.2 at-bats.
Against everyone else in that period, he’s hit .280 with 39 homers and 148 RBIs in 1,245 at-bats and 343 games, or one homer every 32 at-bats.
Of course, I can’t really find any evidence he owns the Braves. No deed or title or anything.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
KC - I’ve got to disagree with you on this being a tema without weaknesses…actually I think we’ve done it all with smoke, mirrors and a run of 2 out RBI manufacturing up til now.
Chuck’s looking more like a 5 pitcher than a 3 to me, and Davies and Redman don’t even look like MLB caliber pitchers. So I’d say the rotation is more htan one guy away from being a concern.
LF. Got to get some O from the position.
1B - Same.
The Bench - I haven’t seen anything yet that makes me think we have solved this problem.
Other than that, you’ve got to love this team, but I do see them riding some streaks and skids like any station to station team is wont to.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
TennPaul, sorry to hear that, man. Hope it works out.
By GeorgetownKid
April 30, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this
Mr. O’Brien (or whomever may know),
What sort of “cash, or player to be named” might we expect from Oakland?
Are we talking about $100K or a low-A middle reliever? Or are we talking about $1 million or a genuine prospect?
I know that the details of the trade are probably secret right now, but I am simply curious as to what to expect. Are we getting some real quality, or did we simply give Langy away?
By Jim
April 30, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
Shaun,
You might want to check Bob Buhl’s stats against the Dodgers vs. the rest of the league. During the 50’s he was to the Dodgers as Frank Lary was to the Yanks.
By picard
April 30, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this
First of all his control is off, so it is up roger mcdowell to get him straightend out, I say we switch it up until he gets his control back, wickman, soriano and let gonzales to close for a little bit or we could use gonales and wickman to close to take some of the pressure of bob.
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this
DOB: Do you know how these Cash-or-Player trades work? Do they set a value before the trade is complete and then “cash in” on that value at a later date? Most of what I read makes it seem like there is a lot of give and take in a trade. Like buying a car. You go back and forth trying to get the most value for your buck. But when these deals come and they say Cash or a Player, how long before they have to choose cash or player, and how is this compensation defined? For instance, in Langerhans case, he was making around league minimum (I’d imagine not too much more than that.) So would the cash be a prorated amount of Langerhans Salary for this season, or the equivalent minor league player cost?
By KC
April 30, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this
Efrim: Hell yes, I want them to bring up Dan Smith… unless they’re concerned that it will be too soon and will mess up his development.
Dan Smith is 3-1 with a 1.64 ERA… 23 strikeouts and only 4 walks through 23 innings! And a WHIP of 0.91.
He’s a 6’5”, 250lbs lefty with great stuff from what I understand. I’m pretty anxious to see what this kid can do in Atlanta. But Matt Harrison would also be a good option, I think.
All I know is that anyone is a better option and Mark Redman at this point. At least when put a kid out there, even if he struggles some, you know he’s got some potential and he’s learning. That’s much better than sending a washed up junk dealer to the mound every 5th day.
By KC
April 30, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this
ernesto: I’m broad-stroking here. I’m saying that our offense, while not perfect, will not be a weakness.
Do you disagree with that? Do you think our offense will prove to be a weakness???
By flange1
April 30, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
Goergetown Kid,
The Oakland paper today indicated that is was a small amount of cash and a minor prospect. The paper went on to suggest that Langy could have been released because he had no options left. Almost another Marcus Giles situation!!
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
ERNESTO….
I’m right there with you man. Smoke and Mirrors to this point. Not to say this team isn’t good, but they haven’t pitched well overall, and they aren’t hitting unless there is 2 outs in the inning. I love how everyone will say “well they are 15-9”. Please. That can change in a freekin week. Say the Phillies Dodgers and Padres come into town and we end up going 4-6 in that stretch. Very possible. 19-15, and 12-14 since the 7-1 start.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
KC,
I rather have you go out there every 5th day than Redman! Seriously, the Braves need to win tonight with Huddie on the mound because if they don’t; they have no shot at winning the series due to tomorrow’s automatic loss.
Regards,
Jason
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Wait on Dan Smith. Let him get into the season a little more. Jesus man, its April. We had injuries with Hampton and Cormier. You want to bring up some kid from Double A. They are just going to have to deal with it, probably for a couple more weeks. I know it sucks. Yes the Mets will gain ground. Never should of signed Redman in the first place.
By KC
April 30, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
Ernesto: To add to my comments about this offense. Yes, we’ve had a lot of 2-out hits. But this lineup has also had to overcome a lot of sluggishness in certain places we all had to know wasn’t going to last.
Most of the first 3 weeks, Kelly Johnson and AJ both hit under .200, while we got absolutely nooooothing from LF or 1B. That had to change, and it is in fact changing. We compensated for those things with great clutch hitting, but there won’t be much need to compensate for anything offensive from here on out.
Take a look at this lineup Ernesto.
Kelly Johnson looks like one of the better young hitters in the league right now. Then you’ve got all-stars in the 2-5 slots in this lineup (when McCann hits 5th), and future all-star (maybe even this year) in Jeff Francoeur, and a young power hitter with a lot of potential in Scott Thorman. The only place you could argue we’re weak is LF… but when Diaz is hitting (as he usually is), I don’t necessarily consider that a weak offensive position. Not for the 8th slot in the order.
Bro… “smoke and mirrors”??? There is a HELL of a lot of talent in this lineup. You don’t see that?
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
KC, you need to take a deep breath and relax regarding Dan Smith. He ain’t all that, not like you’re making him out to be. If he was, he’d be here by now.
He had 100 walks in 214 minor league innings over four seasons before this one, all but 60 of those innings in A-ball or rookie ball. In his 60 innings at Double-A last season, he had 32 walks with 86 strikeouts.
At least before this year, his breaking ball needed a lot of work. Tough to succeed in the MAJORS with just spotty command of a low 90s fastball and changeup.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this
KC - no I wouldn’t say our offense is a “weakness”, but there are some great teams this year within our division and carrying little O from LF and 1B (granted it’s early) could be the difference b/w winning say 88 vs. 93.
And that could be a big difference. OF course that’s all hypothetical and purely my take.
By KC
April 30, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine: …And I would gladly accept 750k to go out there and get the *%&# knocked out of me in Redman’s place. =)
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this
And I think think our offense is going to be streaky this year.
But man I hope they prove me wrong.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this
Flange1, the Oakland paper had it right. We had other issues here to deal with in Colorado yesterday, not to mention an East Coast deadline, making it impossible to make phone calls to try and find out how much cash or what level of player might be involved. Besides, I pretty much knew already that it’d be very little in either case.
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this
The offense isn’t a weakness. The pitching has been bad. James is a #4 or #5. You are dreaming if you think other wise. Come on KC, I’m sure you will write I nice long post about me knocking James. He isn’t that good dude. THE GUY HASN’T PITCHED INTO THE 7TH YET!!!
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
O’Brien,
From what I’ve read, certain guys probably do well against certain types of pitchers and feel comfortable at certain ballparks but don’t really dominate against certain teams. Even without looking at evidence intuition will tell you that it makes no sense. Teams are constantly turning over their roster and players are aging, etc. so why would a player do well basically against certain uniforms, other than they feel comfortable hitting in certain ballparks?
Green is comfortable at Turner Field. His hitting against the Braves has more to do with Turner Field than it does him owning the Braves—the evidence is pretty clear on that. He hits well against the Braves because he hits well at Turner Field, not because he owns the Braves.
By the way, what’s wrong with wanting as much evidence as possible? Yes, it’s good to talk to players, coaches, scouts, etc. but what’s wrong with also looking at the statistical evidence?
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
Thanks DOB. Let’s wait on Dan Smith.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
DOB,
You said:
“Tough to succeed in the MAJORS with just spotty command of a low 90s fastball and changeup.”
Isn’t that Chuck James on a normal day? I guess on a good day he has good command of a low 90s fastball and changeup. Of course, he’s got a great change…
By Lew
April 30, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
Ernesto-Apparently you missed the fact that Scott Thorman went 4-4 yesterday with a walk and a HR. Apparently you also missed the fact that his batting average is now approaching .300 and he is in double figures in RBI-all with one productive week. Maybe your idea of offense from 1B is different than mine, but I think that’s what we’re getting. Oh-Wilson had a couple of hits and a HR the other day, too. Did you miss that as well?
By Jim
April 30, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
I think part of the reason that we didn’t see Gonzalez at all yesterday is because there are concerns about the soreness in his elbow. He has been used very sparingly over the past 2 weeks and had appeared in two games in a row. I don’t think he is ready to pitch back-to-back games without giving him a day or 2 of rest in between. I think Bobby’s bullpen choices have been limited due to MacBride’s ineffectiveness, Paronto’s injury, Gonzalez’s elbow, and the inability of the starters to go deeper into games. with left-handers Howard and Utley being the two main offensive threats (along with Rollins) I would expect for Gonzalez to close tonight (and pray for rain tomorrow night).
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
Jim,
Actually Bob Buhl also pitched well against a lot of other teams besides the Dodgers. He actually won more against the Phillies in 12 fewer games. His ERA was lower against the Dodgers but not significantly lower than it was against a few other teams he faced a lot.
I still don’t see evidence that guys own certain teams. Maybe they play better in certain parks or against certain types of pitchers but they don’t own certain teams, from everything I’ve seen and read.
By FLBRAVESFAN
April 30, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
DOB - So right you are about guys “owning” teams. If you have watched or played the game for any period of time, it is very evident. It’s crazy to say the “splits” or whatever say that this guy isn’t that tough on us while watching another three run homer leave the park ala the Met’s Green (great example) But I agree with the other guy about the Colorado shortstop. Having, again, watched him in the minors, I would be shocked if his career stats even matched those of say, Jeff Blauser - certainly nowhere near our two most recent shortstops.
By DS
April 30, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
Any chance of getting Charles Thomas back in the Langerhans trade???
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Lew -well, actually I did miss it yesterday (Central Park with the wife and kids - buys me 5 fairly-hassle free games this week) but was happy to read it. I’m not trying to be doom and gloom here, but I do have worries about this team, all of which I hope are completely unfounded.
If you have none, good on you.
By AdirondackDave
April 30, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
DOB - Up here I never get to see Renteria in actual games and only a few on TV. His defense is getting pretty severely criticized by some of the guys on this blog but you’re in a much better position to objectively judge his work. Would you critique his defense for us? Thanks.
By flange1
April 30, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
Hi All,
What an interesting week! The Braves are playing well and have lost 2 games they shouls have won, Wicky has been iffy, Langy is gone and Willie Harris is up!
My take is that Willie Harris is a stop gap. I believe that he will end up with the spot that Pete Orr has right now, back up infielder that can run and play outfield. I think JS is looking for an outfielder. I agree with DOB that Blanco and B Jones are not the answer. Maybe later in the year if they are closer to being ready.
I think that JS is going to dangle some relief help and an infield prospect for an outfielder. I know DOB has said that Cliff Floyd looks possible, but Hendry and Floyd have been trying to get together for awhile, Floyd wants to play in his hometown of Chicago, and thus I think he will stay with the Cubs. I think that JS will lookk either at Matt Murton or Jaques Jones.
I think Wicky is hurt. I think we can live through his recovery with Gonzo and Soriano and the rest of the pen. If we had Paronto last night, we would not have lost that game!
By Lew
April 30, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
Ernesto-I’m sorry, Dude-I didn’t mean to come down on you, personally, it’s just that the negativity and the tendency to take small samples of performance, early in the season, has gotten pretty extreme here. All we heard for the first couple of weeks was how bad Kelly Johnson was-now he’s being praised as the greatest lead off hitter since Ricky Henderson. Now the same seems to be the case with Thorman. If we had kept Langerhans, the same probably would have happened with him-he wasn’t an .061 hitter. It’s time to have some patience. The Braves’ front office and managerial staff is on top of things. Despite what many seem to think, Spring Training is not always enough time for some to prepare for a long season. That’s really the main point-It IS a long season and we’ve just started it. You can’t ignore possible trouble spots, for asure, but you also have to give thigs a chance to work themselves out. Patience, my grasshoppers. Patience. All will be well. We’re only a half game from first. Smoke and mirrors or no. That being said, I doubt Redman is the answer, but who knows? We’ve all been wrong before, haven’t we?
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
FLBRAVESFAN,
With all due respect, I don’t know how closely you were watching Tulowitzki in the minors. He hit .286 AVG/.365 OBP/.470 SLG in the minors.
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
Jason In Maine-
Great point about Dan Smith. Chuck James does have trouble locating his mediocre fastball.
By Hunter
April 30, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this
What’s good people? I wanted to chime in on the Dan Smith convo after I read an article on him last week on Baseball America’s website. He was an undrafted free agent signee who’s overachieved thus far. I’m not saying I like/don’t like the guy as I’ve never seen him in person, but we should probably hold off on demanding his callup. I’ll let you guys read what I read…
*Smith Rolling In M-Braves Rotation
Braves lefthander Dan Smith jumped on the radar last season when he went 3-6, 3.13 with 86 strikeouts in 60 innings at Double-A Mississippi.
Signed as a nondrafted free agent out of Cypress Lake (Fla.) High in 2003, Smith was used almost exclusively as a reliever over his first four seasons in the system.
Now that he’s been thrust into a full-time role in the rotation for the M-Braves, Smith is still holding his own.
The 23-year-old lefty allowed a run on four hits and struck out six over six innings in Mississippi’s 4-1 win against Birmingham. And he’s now 3-1, 1.64 with a 23-4 strikeout-walk ratio.
But there are signs Smith might not be the complete pitcher he appears to be.
“There is no real breaking ball,” said a National League scout. “He’s a fastball command guy with a pretty good changeup. The changeup is probably a 55 (on the 20-80 scouting scale) and he’ll get by at this level with those two pitches.
“There is no breaking ball for me. You can say ’slurvy’ breaking ball; I guess you could call it that. But it doesn’t do much, doesn’t have much movement. Every once in a while he’ll cut a fastball that looks like a breaking ball and it’s fooling guys, but there isn’t a true breaking ball in his repertoire. You could see him having success out of the pen, but this guy is surviving at this level right now with a fastball/change/cutter mix. That says reliever to me.”*
By KC
April 30, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this
DOB: I admit, I really don’t know much about Dan Smith other than his numbers this year… and it could be that those numbers (with only 22 innings pitched so far) are deceiving.
But 23 strikeouts and only 4 walks through 22 innings… maybe he’s going those control issues worked out.
But as I said, I’m fine with seeing Harrison or one of our other top young pitchers in here. I’d rathere have a lack of experience in the rotation than lack of talent. Promote who you will, and get Redman out of the picture.
By Kaye
April 30, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
DOB….I knew that Langerhans would leave us soon, but I am a little confused as to why they would take Harris over Blanco. Blanco seems to have a little more power and Harris just never seems to have that playing time. Can you explain anything here. Thanks a bunch.
By Yars
April 30, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
DOB………..according to some online reviews of Coachella, RATM rocked the place. However, do not expect a brand new studio album from them anytime soon. Perhaps they are testing the waters to see if they still have the appeal? They are not one of my favorite bands, but I respect them a lot & dig their sound. I also hear that Sonic Youth put on a good show.
By Jim
April 30, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Shaun,
To say that Lary or Buhl had comparable records against other teams misses the point. Both were good pitchers and consistent 15 - 20 game winners for a number of years. But the other teams were not the Yankees and Dodgers. The Phillies were a mid- tier to second division team for much of the 50’s (during Buhl’s prime years)and did not have a lineup comparable to that of the Dodgers. To do as well against the Dodgers as you did against, say the Phillies, is significant. Nobody ever got the title of “Senator Killer” during the time of that woeful franchise. It was no big deal.
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this
Lots of pressure on Hudson tonight. His starts, as well as Smoltz’s, have become must wins.
By KC
April 30, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this
Ernesto and Efrim: Since you both believe that our offense has been nothing but smoke and mirrors, I would like to work out some kind of wager with one or both of you.
The Braves scored 849 runs last year (2nd most in the NL). I’ll wager with you that they will score better than 800 runs again this season (only 5 NL teams did that last year).
Would you be interested in betting against this “smoke and mirrors” offense. If so, I’ll take that bet.
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this
Here is the direction I see the pitching staff going from here on out…
1) Davies will get sent down as soon as Paronto is healthy and ready to return to the bullpen.
2) Villareal moves into the #4 spot in the rotation.
3) Moylan takes over Villareal’s role as the innings-eater/mop-up duty guy.
4) Paronto takes over Moylan’s current role in the bullpen.
5) Redman gets skipped as often as possible in the rotation(when days off allow for it) and barring any back to back complete disasters he stays there for the whole season and gets around 20 starts.
What do you guys think? I think that gives us our absolute best possible combination of pitchers for right now… If Cormier comes back healthy then maybe you cut Redman or send Colyer back to AAA and move villareal back to the bullpen… And, I also still think that we will probably make a deal for a front-line starter sometime in July. Just think what we could get with a package of say, Saltalamacchia and Villareal? Or Salty and Davies…
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this
Hunter,
Sounds a lot like our #3 starter. Must locate his fastball to be effective. Has no quality third pitch.
By NS in Kennesaw
April 30, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this
We need better pitcher in number 4 and 5 spot in the rotation.
Davies and Redman both have enough chance for their audition and both did not show any sign of being consistent (even from inning to inning).
Perhaps it would be better to have Oscar V become a starter then either send Davies or Redman to AAA and promote another one up.
Also, that last game with the Marlins seems to have a drastic mental effect on Wickman - - since then he seems lost on the mound. I hope Mr. Cox and the Braves coaches can restore his confidence back sometime real soon.
I’ll be a the ball park for a few games during this home stand
GO BRAVES !!!
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
KC - I didn’t mean we’re talentless and can’t compete. I think we’re a great team that’s fun to watch and has a chance. The smoke and mirrors I’m referring to has more to do with our rotation, after Smoltz and Huddy, we’re more thna a little iffy. Also the O has been sporadic. We are winning games but can you count on this 2 out RBI production to continue? I like that we’re winning, I just odn’t feel dominant about it, nor do I feel this is a team, as you said, “with no weaknesses.” 1B is unproven. LF HAS to get more productive. Is Andruw going to come around or have a down year b/c he’s pressing? Can Chipper stay healthy? Is KJ going to go into the tank for a while, just like he did after winning player of the week a couple of seasons ago. I think these are concerns.
Just my opinion. And I’m never going to take any bet against my beloved Bravos.
By KC
April 30, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this
Efrim: On the Chuck James thing…
I agree with you wholeheartedly that 5 or 6 innings a start ain’t gonna cut it. And his numbers this year aren’t pretty so far. However, I would hate to disappoint you and not deliver the defense of Chuck James you expect… so I will point out the following:
However, there were a couple of starts in which I thought James was pitching pretty well, and he didn’t have a high pitch count… and I was scratching my head as to why BC pulled him out when he did. I think in those 2 instances, he was making use of his newfound bullpen depth to get the matchups he wanted in what were close games.
And I thought he pitched very well his last time out. If the bullpen had taken care of him as I feel they should have that day… his ERA would still sit under 4.00 right now.
In the end, we don’t really know what kind of pitcher Chuck James will be. Will he put up numbers more in line with last year the rest of the way? Or will he turn out to be a relatively average starter? We don’t know yet.
One thing I do know… this “too many flyballs” stuff is horse S#*T. The name of the game is to keep the ball off the sweet spot. Unless you’re pitching somewhere like Cinci or Coors… flyballs tendencies aren’t a big deal. They really aren’t. When Chuck James is on, he mostly get benign pop-flies that don’t even force our outfielders to break a sweat.
I’m not ready to predict that James will be a perennial 15 win, 3.50 ERA guy every year… but if you’re going to sit here and say “he isn’t that kind of pitcher”… you’re full of it. He looked very much like that kind of pitcher last year, and we’ll just have to wait and see if he can do it again.
By Fred from CT
April 30, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this
DOB Have you heard what the plan is with willie? Is it gonna be a platoon with diaz, or is diaz gonna get a shot to play almost every day and use harris as a bench player.
By FLBRAVESFAN
April 30, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
Shaun - That’s the point Dude. I WAS WATCHING not reading some frigging book. The guy has a slow bat, limited power outside the circuses that are Colorado and Houston and a decent glove - a Jeff Blauser - with maybe not as much pop.
By ppaddy123
April 30, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
DOB, since everyone in here seems to have an opinion (right or wrong) concerning the Langerhans trade, here’s mine. I think putting Willie Harris in the 8 hole will be like batting him lead off. Hopefully, he can work a few walks or base hits in front of our pitchers. They can then drop a bunt, moving him into scoring position where KJ can drive him in. Also, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Diaz playing more at 1st base as Wilson’s bat has been so cold. I do agree with you about not moving Kelly.
By KC
April 30, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
ernesto… Whooooooooooh!!!!! Hold on there pilgrim.
I never said this was a team without any weaknesses. I said… IF THE BACK END OF THE ROTATION WERE FIXED, this team would be without any major weaknesses.
If the back end of the rotation gets fixed, we’ll have a strong rotation, a strong bullpen, and a strong offense. That’s what I said. We absolutely do have a weakness right now… the 4/5 slots in the rotation.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
Jim,
They pitched as well or close to as well against several other teams as they did against the Dodgers or Yankees, even when you take into account how good or bad the opponents were.
By roger dyals
April 30, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
Two words “Bobby Cox”. He’s a good man but he still continues to manage with his heart. He’s a veteran’s manager so we have a lot of young talent that need to be playing up in the Bigs that won’t get there under Cox.
By Art
April 30, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this
Willie Harris could not even make it as a back up with the Red Sox last year and now he is going to be starting for the Braves. Something ain’t right or the Braves are working on another deal to acquire a left fielder or second baseman and move Kelly Johnson to left field. I would rather have a stronger left fielder and keep Kelly at 2nd.
Why didn’t Gonzalez pitch Sunday and give Wickman a rest. Wickman should not pitch in the next series while he works out his control problems in the pen. Maybe his back was hurting
By Jim
April 30, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this
ernesto, I agree with you. Not only is it necessary to win the Hudson starts (with Redman going in game 2), but he must be able to go at least 7 innings — of the “big 3” only Gonzalez is somewhat rested for tonight, and Yates and Moylan will need to be rested too. Please let it rain tomorrow night!!
By Hunter
April 30, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
I’m not a scout, and never claim to be, but I think James’ fastball and change grade out a tick higher than Smith’s. I won’t deny the similiarities, but James had much better numbers(W/L and ERA) and was viewed as a legit prospect coming up through the minors. Again, I’m not a scout and I don’t have anything against Dan Smith, I’m just trying to bring more info and opinions to the discussion.
By KC
April 30, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this
DonC: Well, apparently there isn’t anything significant wrong with Cormier’s arm… so you’ve got to think that he’ll be in the mix at some point in the not too distant future.
I also wouldn’t rule out a trade. It’ll be tough as there likely aren’t any teams shopping a quality starter right now. But it’s possible. The Braves have a lot of depth to trade from.
They’ve got a lot of young almost-big-league-ready talent, and a great deal of relief depth, particularly whenever Boyer and Sturtze are healthy. Plenty of trade bait.
DOB: I’ve noticed as I’ve been checking in on the minor league stats, that Phil Stockman’s number have remained static for about a week. Is he healthy? Is he pitching? And what is the story on Boyer?
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this
FLBRAVESFAN,
Baseball America called Tulowitzki an “elite player.” Based on the scouting reports I’ve read, he has enough power to be a thirdbaseman. Also, Baseball America rated him Colorado’s best defensive infielder and best arm. He reached the majors faster than any player the Rockies have taken in a draft. Baseball America, at the beginning of the season, rated him the 15th-best prospect in the minors, higher in their top 100 prospects than Mike Pelfrey, Matt Garza, Ryan Braun, Andy LaRoche, and several other highly-regarded prospects.
By Jersey Gil
April 30, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this
i don’t know what it going on with all the closer lately, Wickman,Hoffman,Gordon,Rivera…all have a bad week this past week..so say that, we are not the only team with 2 blown save this week, we are doing ok, we resolve the problem in left field, Harris is a lefty, play all three outfield and also play the infiled and have so speed. now we have to resolve the rotation sending Davies to the minor. This week will be war at home with my wive(she is a Phillis fan)wow…hope we sweep the series or there will some serious discussion at home.which me luck guys….
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine:
KC, I rather have you go out there every 5th day than Redman*
I don’t have KC’s PECOTA ratings in front of me, so maybe I’m going out on a limb here, but I bet I’d be the better option. I’ve got a cutter that would make Mariano jealous. I can mix it in perfectly with my 77 mph sonic fastball.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this
KC - I’d add hte 3 slot to that list, until Chuckie shows he’s more of a 3 than a 5. And Chuckie’s my boy, so I hope he does, but from what we’ve seen of him so far it’s not 3 stuff.
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this
Enough about this talk of moving KJ back to left field, it ain’t gonna happen! The guy is coming off of TOMMY JOHN surgery on his arm and some people on this blog think it would be a good idea to move him to left??? Are you people serious? Stop talking about KJ moving somewhere, he is our second baseman now and will be for the next 5-10 years… Left field is our weak-spot on offense. GET OVER IT PEOPLE! WE CAN’T HAVE A GREAT HITTER AT EVERY POSITION!
By Densey
April 30, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this
Is it true that as an organization we would even contemplate trading our #1 prospect to help patch holes on our major league roster? Do we not have pitchers ready in our farm system capable of replacing our 4th and 5th starter now? (Reyes, Lerew, or Harrison?) Call J. S. up and move him to 1st, trade a package of Prado, Diaz and Davies for a everyday left fielder and throw in Redman if the team needs more pitching and move up Blanco, Harris, Harrison and Reyes
By Lee
April 30, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this
What team does not have a few weaknesses - even the Mighty Yankees have fallen with all of the money they spend. The Langerhans trade is just the beginning of some fine tuning for this team. I agree Harris is only temporary unless he has a career year. There will be additional moves before all is said and done. J.S. will make a trade or two by mid-season and the trade deadline - he always does. No one will see it coming and more-than-likely it will be for someone’s name never mentioned on this BLOG.
I still believe that if we stay in striking distance or swap back and forth for the lead within the Division we will be fine for the moment. I actually like the fact the the Langerhans situation came about as quickly as it did. I know some Bloggers did not think it would happen so fast and Langy should have been given more time. It shows me that the Braves are committed to winning this year. Last year I don’t think they would have pulled the trigger on fast on Langy. If Davies keeps the walks up it will not be long before he is gone also. if it is one thing B.C. does not tolerate, it is walks.
By Lew
April 30, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this
I fail to see why there is any optimism, whatsoever, in Willie Harris. The guy has six years in the bigs-899AB. He only has 36 extra base hits in all that time. He has stolen 55 bases and been caught stealing 15 times-not that great a %. That averages one stolen base every 11 AB and about one extra base hit every 22 AB. He has hit 5 HR in his career, or less than one per year. The guy has a career OBP of .306-and that isn’t even an accurate reflection of his abilities, because he has had an OBP UNDER .300 four of those six years. Of what use is speed if he can’t get on base? I’ve said it before, do we need a pinch runner that bad? I would imagine that there is much more going on behind the scenes in regard to the outfield AND starting pitching situations. Again, patience. All will be well. The guardians are aware and will handle any deficits this team may have.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this
DonCoburleone,
Agree. Kelly Johnson is the secondbaseman. Also, nothing wrong with Matt Diaz. He’s not an All-Star but the guy can hit. Johnson at 2b and Diaz in LF is better than Johnson in LF and somebody else at 2b. I don’t consider LF a weak spot at all with Diaz getting most of the time out there.
By KC
April 30, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
TennPaul: nice try man, but I’ve got a slow curve and a 68mph fastball. Most hitters have very hard time waiting on it.
By David-ATL14
April 30, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this
To an earlier poster Boyer still on the DL along with Stockman(knee).
DOB, I would assume you get as tired as I do, of the typical stathead arrogance from Shaun. His earlier attempt to refute your observations about Shaun Green were comedy of “high order” Rates right there with his statements last season about pinch hitting not being hard to do. Matters very little that Chipper and TP, people with actual experience have stated otherwise. Shaun actually thinks because Bill James,Rob Neyer or the equally egg headed Joe Sheehan may have stated differently that makes it so.
Absolutely brilliant stuff from a quartet that has never garnered the first Major League AB.
By FLBRAVESFAN
April 30, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this
Shaun: Re: The Rockies SS. Didn’t BA say the same thing about Barmes? We’ll see. Right now the “book” says .205 after what somebody on the blog described as a career weekend. Can think of at least a half dozen young shortstops in the majors or high minors I’d rather hitch my star to.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this
Lew,
I guess there’s some reason for optimism concerning Willie Harris: Dave Roberts’s steal in Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS that basically kept the series alive.
Also, he’s at least adequate at several defensive positions.
By Carroll
April 30, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this
Forgive me if this has been said already, but I fail to see why it was necessary to get rid of Langy. Why not just start Diaz every day and use Langy in the 8th or 9th for defense? That seems a lot more valuable than just giving him away in favor of a career nobody (Harris).
But I just wonder if JS felt it necessary to get rid of Langy b/c donk couldn’t be trusted to NOT start him every time they face a right handed pitcher. IF so, then look out Craig Wilson!
By KC
April 30, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
Lew: Willie Harris’ career stolen base numbers are as follows:
55 steals in 70 attemps for a 79% sucess rate. That’s good, my friend.
And he was 7 of 10 in steals at AAA (where it is not necessarily any easier to steal bases than it is in the bigs) so far.
As a hitter, he’s certainly nothing great. He’s commensurate to Pete Orr or Chis Woodward in that department. But I really like having his speed, particularly on the bench where he can be brought in to pinch run in a late go-ahead situation.
By beachcomber
April 30, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
First sorry about the comment on the Rockies SS this morning really didn’t mean to set off a firestorm! Just a comment on how some guys perform extremely well against some teams.
Lew, being the eternal optimist, perhaps Harris will be like Matthews, Jr., a late bloomer. Remember when he couldn’t make our club out of spring training? Hit .313 last year and above .300 again this year. You can only hope. The few games I saw in spring training, Harris looked awfully good. Let’s hope!
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
KC: As far as Davies’ weakness in the rotation it might be related to the undue burden given to him. When Hampton and Cormier went down with injuries, JS responded by picking up one of the worst pitchers available. Though to his credit he didn’t pick up the absolute worst… I think Jose Lima is still available somewhere. Davies went from working out issues in Richmond to being a #4 starter in the rotation. If anything he was to be the #5 starter this year. He and Cormier were fighting for the #5 spot and now they are both being asked to be #4 pitchers. And with how horrid Redman is and the two early pitching injuries, the #4 pitcher is now being looked to for #3 type production. It’s a lot of pressure for a guy who needed more time to regain his confidence. If he makes it through this trial, he’ll be a great pitcher. He just has to make it through this. It’d probably be in his best interest to stay away from the blog though. The number of positive posts he receives is far out numbered by the boarder line death threats.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
Soemthing I’ve liked a lot from this young season is seeing a lead off hitter with more plate discipline/strike zone knowledge. Even when he was mkaing outs, KJ was making pitchers work. Thor also seems to have a pretty good idea of what he’s doing up there. I’d say getting that element into the line up is a big improvement from last year.
By Densey
April 30, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this
DOB Do you believe that a move is viatal now because we need to make our move now because I don’t think anyone has realized that the Mets and Marlins shall only get stronger with key personnel on the DL right now. We need to take advantage and build as much of a lead as possible in the toughest division in baseball. Also must I remind you for the most part we have been healthy and as the closest to 100% healthy in our division
By KC
April 30, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14:
Thanks for the info on Boyer/Stockman.
Take it easy on Shaun dude. He’s a thoughtful and respectful blogger. He’s highly opinionated, as many … or probably most of us regulars here are. I often agree with him, and just as (or more) often disagree with him. But there are others far more deserving of being called “arrogant”.
By Don
April 30, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
After DOB posted a while back that McBride had a 3 inning outing in Richmond I asked if the Braves might be trying to convert him to a starter but didn’t get a response. The radio announcers yesterday mentioned that McBride had started 3 games in a row. They said the initial explanation was that they just wanted to get him work, but now they think something might be up. I agree. I don’t think McBride is well suited for the lefty specialist to pitch to a batter or two because of his erratic control. I believe giving him a shot as a starter makes sense. It’s not like he can be much worse than Davies or Redman, and they can always move him back to the bullpen.
The radio guys also mentioned something that some people here don’t seem to grasp. The Braves aren’t going to fix their holes at the 4-5 spots in the rotation with a trade for Salty or any other prospects. Starting pitching is the most valuable commodity in baseball. Virtually every team in both leagues has holes in their starting rotation and several of them (most notably the Yankees) will outspend the Braves to get any starting pitching that might somehow be available.
The Braves are going to have to patch something together out of the system to fill the 4-5 spots. Given that neither Cormier or Villareal are exactly established big league starters and since that the Braves have more depth in the bullpen, I’d like to see them consider converting anybody who might work as a starter so we have a plan B and C.
No matter how much depth there is in the bullpen, if we don’t get a couple of decent pitchers in the 4-5 spots in the rotation we’re going to burn it out by August. Wickman is already overworked before the end of April.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this
Densey, we lost 2/5 of the starting rotation before we even got out of the gate…that’s not 100% healthy.
By flange1
April 30, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this
In terms of LF,
First off I agree with Lew that we all need to chill out and have some patience! But everyone needs to remember that Willie Harris is really a AAAA player and the Braves almost sold Matt Diaz to a team in Japan over the winter. I don’t think the JS is counting on either of them or a platoon to be the final decision in LF. I see a trade happening bringing in a true LF, with Diaz and Harris as OF backups, Wison and Diaz as 1B backups, for now Harris and Woodward as IF backups. That opens up the Orr spot maybe for Aybar if he ever gets his act together or a new someone who is a hitter first and a fielder second.
To me the bullpen is not getting enough credit except for the big three. Moylan has looked good, Paranto looked good before he got hurt, Yates was throwing 98 yesterday and Villareal is Villareal. If Stockman and or Boyer gets healthy and start pitching well, we should have a bullpen arm or two available for trade.
I agree that Davies needs work, but I am not sure if he is better off in Atlanta or Richmond to get that work. It sure looks to me that he is still worried about his injury from last year! Maybe some time looking at older videos? Maybe of that Boston game last year?
DOB, I know Trey Hodges has no more options, but what about Lerew? Also, any Aybar spottings?
THANKS!
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this
FLBRAVESFAN,
No, actually Barmes was never a top 100 prospect, much less top 15.
.205 in 21 games is not very telling. More telling is the fact that he hit very well in the minors, and the organization thought enough of him to bring him up faster than anyone the Rockies ever drafted. And it’s not like they brought him up to stick him in LF or 1B to get his bat in the lineup. He’s the starting SS.
Yes, we’ll see. We’ll see Tulowitzki battle Jose Reyes for the starting slot among NL starting SS for the next decade. He may not be All-Star caliber this season, but he will be soon enough.
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this
So much complaining about Redman, I don’t understand it… His first start, (against the amazingly good Mets offense) he pitched into the 6th inning (5 2/3’s) allowing 5ER’s and kept us in the game. His next start, shelled. 7er’s in 2 2/3’s innings against Florida. His next outing, 3er’s and pitched into the 8th inning against a very good Chicago offense. And his last one, also against Florida, 3 innings, 6 earned runs…. One good start(giving us a chance to win vs. NY), one awful start(Fla), one very good start (Chicago), another terrible start (Fla)…
What exactly do you people expect from an emergency FA signing 2 weeks before the season started? He’s a 5th starter, back to back good outings typically do not happen. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, the 4th starter spot is the problem in our rotation. Lets face it, Davies has let us down and is not capable of being our #4 starter, so move Villareal their and send Davies back down to AAA. WE CAN AFFORD 130 INNINGS OF MARK REDMAN IF WE HAVE A QUALITY #4 STARTER!
By KC
April 30, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
TennPaul: I don’t consider Kyle Davies a lost cause by any means, but it’s always harder for a team in a pennant race to show patience.
As for Davies being thrust into the fire of having an “undue burden”… I don’t see it. He came to spring as the odd-on favorite for the 5th slot in the rotation.
The injury to Cormier simply put him back in the position he was in heading into the spring. And I don’t think circumstances have placed any undue pressure on him. It’s just time for him to start showing that promise he showed a couple years ago.
And I don’t think he’s being looked at for #3 production. If he could simply post a mediocre 4.50 ERA, the Braves will win most of the games he starts. Forget shutting the other team down… we just need a couple guys who can keep us in the game to give our offense and bullpen a chance to win it.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14,
Don’t see what’s so arrogant about relying on evidence over intuition. I guess no one can say anything on this blog unless we’ve actually played in the majors. No one can know anything about the game unless they played in the majors. How many current GM’s have played in the majors? How many of the GM’s whose teams won 100 games or more in the last 20 years played in the majors? How many of the past 20 World Series winners had GM’s who played in the majors?
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this
Don C - with all due respect, if we bounce anyone I’d like it to be Dedman, and move Davies back to the 5 spot. At least Davies has some upside, Redman’s a washed-up junkballer, Only giving up 5 runs in 5 2/3 is a good start? Yikes. My list reads: bad start, horrible start, MLB caliber-start start, god-awful start. Redman doesn’t lose, he gets shelled!
By mr baseball
April 30, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this
One aspect of yesterday’s loss that has not been addressed much was the baserunning and Cox’s approach to the running game. The Braves gave up 4 outs on the bases — 2 attributable to a questionable Cox decision; 1 to a bad move by the 3B coach; and 1 player mistake.
The triple play was chalked up to bad luck, but in that situation, why would you send the runners. Upside: no double play. Downside: possible DP if Chipper K’s; inning over on a line drive at somebody.
I know a lot of you want the Braves to be aggressive and run more, but under the circumstances, they are much better suited to a conservative, station to station approach. This is a good offensive team, and you never want to give up an out at Coors Field.
Not to belabor a point I’ve made previously, but you win a whole lot more games by playing for a big inning than you do by playing small ball, ESPECIALLY with a team like the Braves are currently constituted. Why in the world would the 3B coach send Andruw, whose speed is just slightly superior to your average catcher, with no outs? Even if he’s safe at home, that’s a bad decision.
And as for you 19th century baseball afficionados who wanted a bunt after Thorman’s double, guess who was on deck. The since departed Mr. Langerhans. Cox sends up Diaz, they walk or pitch around him, leaving Woodward and the LH hitting KJ to hit against Fuentes. Pena did his job. He hit the ball the other way. Unfortunately it was a line drive right at the second baseman. Bad luck. Also, less than stellar baserunning by Thorman. Considering how Wickman pitched Friday at Coors (not the mention the 9th inning against the Malins), Cox could have avoided going back to him by using Yates in the 8th and Soriano in the 9th. But in true Cox fashion, he did whatever required the least amount of thought and went with his standard Soriano in the 8th, Wickman in the 9th approach.
Give Cox the chance to make the wrong move in a late game situation, and more than often, he’ll make it.
One last thing. What was Colyer doing pitching around Helton in the 11th? Helton has exactly 1 HR this year, and the one batter Colyer did not want to face with the game on the line was Holliday. They had another lefty on deck and a .158 hitting catcher after him. The guy to pitch around was Holliday, even if you put the winning run on second base. Don’t recall if McDowell may a trip to the mound to tell Colyer that. If not, he shares in the L.
If sound strategic thinking is required for the Braves to win a game, the team is SOL.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14,
Who’s more arrogant, Murray Chase and Joe Morgan, guys who give a big f you to guys who analyze baseball stats? Or is it actually the guys who do analyze baseball stats?
Here’s something from Curt Schilling, who plays in the majors, that’s worth reading:
SI.com: Do you think that Internet-based baseball analysts and writers should be available for BBWAA awards and Hall of Fame voting?
Schilling: Oh, it’ll come full-circle at some point. Why wouldn’t it? They already have a much larger impact than the Murray Chass’ of the world would like to believe. I mean, you’ve got guys who are putting out what I know to be legitimately valuable statistical information and its relevance to a game in a win or a loss at Baseball Prospectus. Then you have guys that I’m not too fond of, like Murray Chass, who says, “What is VORP and who cares?” It was a stupid article. The only thing it did was show his ignorance to me in modern day baseball. Because those numbers do matter, those numbers do have value. Do they have value to me in getting a player out? No. But I would tell you that there are a lot of front offices that use those numbers for a lot of important decision making.
By DonCoburleone
April 30, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
“Yes, we’ll see. We’ll see Tulowitzki battle Jose Reyes for the starting slot among NL starting SS for the next decade. He may not be All-Star caliber this season, but he will be soon enough.”
Shaun, please, please tell me you are joking about that comment. Jose Reyes IS the best player in baseball not named Pujols or A-Rod. I freakin’ hate the dirty Mets, but there is no denying how good that guy is. Tulowitzki has proved exactly NOTHING so far in the major leagues and you are comparing him to Reyes?!? Ridiculous. That is like me saying that (based on his 4-4 performance yesterday) Scott Thorman will be challenging Pujols for the title of best first-baseman in the NL for the next 10 years…
If you were joking about your comment then disregard this post (don’t know how you can’t be joking)…
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this
KC,
Our offense is fine. I don’t worry about us scoring runs. I worry about our 3,4,5 starters, and a bullpen that hasn’t been as good as I expected. The flyball stuff is important. Why do people like Felix so much? Huh? Give me an answer to that KC. He never lets a ball out of the infield. Thats why. Ground ball pitchers are important to a team’s success. Flyball pitchers tend to give up more extra base hits, therefore their opponents OPS is higher. Those are the little things that seperate a good pitcher to a great pitcher.
By caveman22
April 30, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this
you guys done with your “mental masterbation” yet?? Sometimes it’s hard to remember who’s blog this is. I notice a few guys who are starting to write their post’s as if they were writing an article. Over and over and over again with the rotation and coach and platoons. All you “regulars” need to get a grip and a reality check on just how important your opinions are, — answer — not at all!!
Go Bravos
—and will some of you guys just “SHUT THE HELL UP!!”
By Lee
April 30, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this
DonC - I agree with you that Kyle Davis is more the problem than Redman. What did everyone expect from Redman!!! Hopefully Cormier will return eventually and take over the 4th position and Davies can go back to AAA. If it come comes down to having to trade a young pitcher for a outfielder or a veteran starting pitcher it would not surprise me if Davies would not be the trade bait over any of the current minor league pitchers.
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this
KC: The undue burden is the fact that Davies is not the #5 starter as he was competing for. As you said He came to spring as the odd-on favorite for the 5th slot in the rotation. He lost that battle. Instead of going to work out his issues for losing the 5th starter spot, he was promoted to 4th starter. His 5th starter quality outings look even worse considering the fact that Redman follows him up with equally poor outings. If there were only one of these guys in the rotation it would be bearable. Instead we have 2 guys doing this. Add to that the fact that Chuck James has been sub-par so far and it becomes a more glaring problem.
I suppose, for comfort sake, you could replace the phrase Undue Burden with More Glaring Problem if you like. Which ever one helps get my point across. The point being, we are asking for more out of Davies than he can offer. We’re asking him to be 4th starter after he failed to even secure the 5 slot.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
KC and 10Paul,
Do either of you throw a knuckle ball? If so, your in! If not, I have to go with the bigger differential between your fastball and off speed pitch. KC, what is the speed on your slow curve? (:
The Tigers, from what I have read, seem to have some pitching depth. Probably not at this point, but if they are seriously interested in Salty, maybe the Braves can work a deal for Robertson or another starter sometime in May or early June. The Braves can’t go with this rotation until the end of the trading deadline!
I see Joey D worked another scoreless inning with 2 Ks last night. I think his ERA is down to 2.08.
Regards,
Jason
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this
AdirondackDave, don’t know who you’re talking about has “severely criticized” Renteria’s defense. I think he’s still a well-above-average defensive player. Not quite the Gold Glover he was a few years ago, but still well above average.
I’ve never heard a scout, opposing player, teammate or anyone else criticize Renteria defensively the way you suggested, never heard one person intimate he’s a liability. Quite the contrary. Very smooth, still.
Sorry, but in the face of all that, and most importantly what I see myself, I don’t really care about the scouting reports of anonymous folks here who would “severely criticize” Renteria’s D. I just don’t. Being honest with you.
And did someone really compare Smith to James? Holy… Smith has a 2.57 ERA with 100 walks and 270 strikeouts in 214 innings in the minors before this season, all but 60 of them below Double-A.
Chuck had a 2.09 ERA with 109 walks and 443 strikeouts in 378-1/3 innings in the minors, including about 150 in Double-A and Triple-A.
Smith doesn’t have his deceptive delivery or his changeup, not to mention his location.
By Ron
April 30, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
I think Harris will play some LF, but I think that he will be what Aybar was suppose to be, our backup 3rdBaseman, and us giving Chipper 1 day per week off, especially with the tightness he had yesterday, Just my oppinion, but I think that will end up happenin, so he will probably get 3 games per week starting between LF and 3rdBase, not counting the Pinch Running, and Pinch Hitting!!!
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this
Well, I’m finally about to board this jet home. Just ate a pork burrito, which makes the four-day total two pork burritos, one plate of steak tacos, one bowl of pork chili _ all with very hot sauce and jalapenos.
You know, by the way, you’re not in Atlanta when the front page of the paper has a big bear on it and a half-page story, “Food in Flux: Views differ on warming’s effect on grizzlies.” That’s the cover of the Billings Gazette, which is here in the Crown Room at the Denver airport.
Good headline on front page of the Denver Post sports section, in all caps: “TRIPLEWITZKI!”
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
DOB,
No, someone compared your description of Smith to James. What I said was that on a bad day, James is a 2 pitch pitcher with mediocre success. On a good day, he is the guy that you described. So, my point was that James gets by with a + changeup and good location. He has two pitches. If this Smith character, who I know absolutely nothing about, can improve his changeup and location, why couldn’t he be as successful as Chuck J? Your description of Smith seems to describe Chuck when he has a bad outing…
Regards,
Jason
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
DonCoburleone,
Actually, no, I wasn’t joking. Saying Tulowitzki will soon be an All-Star caliber player is no different than saying Alex Gordon or Delmon Young will be All-Star caliber and I wouldn’t get much criticism for that. Tulowitzki is just not as well known.
Tulowitzki has done nothing in the majors but he’s done plenty in his life to show us that he’s likely to become at least a very good major leaguer. And he’s done plenty to show the Rockies he was ready to be their starting SS at age 22 and to earn a promotion to the majors faster than any Rockies draft pick.
I’m not comparing him to Jose Reyes. I’m saying he and Jose Reyes will be the best SS in the NL for the next decade.
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this
SHAUN, you’re a good dude, but man you’re so freakin’ wrong sometimes for a smart fella. Sometimes you just spout garbage without even checking stats:
You wrote: “From what I’ve read, certain guys probably do well against certain types of pitchers and feel comfortable at certain ballparks but don’t really dominate against certain teams. Even without looking at evidence intuition will tell you that it makes no sense. Teams are constantly turning over their roster and players are aging, etc. so why would a player do well basically against certain uniforms, other than they feel comfortable hitting in certain ballparks?”
AND YOU CONTINUED: “Green is comfortable at Turner Field. His hitting against the Braves has more to do with Turner Field than it does him owning the Braves—the evidence is pretty clear on that. He hits well against the Braves because he hits well at Turner Field, not because he owns the Braves.”
Wrong, wrong, wrong. He totally dominated them at Dodger Stadium, a couple of two-homer games, a big grand slam, etc etc. He even hit well against them when he was with Toronto in interleague games up there. And he’s KILLED THEM in games at Shea Stadium. So just drop the argument unless you want to actually look at what he’s done against them there. Because you’re simply wrong. Sorry, you just are on this one. Wrong, bro. W-r-o-n-g.
By Don
April 30, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this
Hey, if Shaun can compare Tulowizki to Reyes (not that he’d ever seen Tulowizki play before this weekend (not that you need to see somebody play before projecting him as an All-Star as long as you read the Baseball Prospectus)), it seems perfectly reasonable to compare Smith to James.
Are Earl Williams and Brad Comminsk still eligible for the regular Hall of Fame vote or do they have to go through the Veteran’s Committee?
By David O'Brien
April 30, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
Hey Shawn, I just looked up his day-by-days vs. Braves, out of curiosity. First game Green ever played against them, 1997 interleague at Toronto SkyDome. He had three hits and two homers in that game.
He hit 16 homers that season.
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine: I can toss the ball up there so slow the other team would think it was a permanent fixture right in the heart of the plate. I can do that both over hand and side arm. My breaking ball is pretty sharp as well. Nothing I throw is straight though. Some of it harder to control than others. But I’ll do it for league minimum. I’d do it for free but the union won’t let me.
By KC
April 30, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine: Don’t know… it can’t be clocked… won’t register. =)
By Jim
April 30, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
I have no problem with McCann in the on-deck circle before the SF. After the SF, the game was tied and we had 2 out and a runner on first. It may not have been the best time to use McCann, but the pitcher was tiring, its Coors field, and a hot KJ was on deck. If we saved McCann for a later situation, he might be facing a lefthander (Fuentes) and there might not arise a better circumstance to use him again. I’m OK with hitting McCann when Bobby did.
By JasonInMaine
April 30, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this
KC,
What else do you have? It looks like TennPaul is going to get the 5th starter job unless you come up with a 3rd pitch!
Regards,
Jason
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
O’Brien,
Check out what he’s done against Mike Hampton, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and Denny Neagle and John Burkett. His OPS is very high against those guys.
On BaseballReference.com, you can see what Green has done against different types of pitchers—power, finesse, neutral. Finesse pitchers strike out or walks less than 24 percent of batters faced, according to their definition.
Green kills those types of pitchers. And what have a lot of Braves pitchers had in common over the past 15 years (the course of Green’s career)? A lot have basically been finesse pitchers or some semblance of finesse pitchers.
I know it’s pretty much semantics. Green hits well against Braves pitchers and hits well at Turner Field is basically the same thing as saying he hits the Braves well.
But I think it’s and important distinction—players only “own” teams in that they own a team’s pitchers or hit well in a team’s ballpark or both. I don’t think it has much to do with seeing a certain team’s uniform and becoming more focused or anything like that. And I think the stats back me up on this.
By KC
April 30, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this
Efrim: Dude, everyone love Felix cuz he’s a stud and he gets outs. Period.
Look, if you’re designing your perfect pitcher and could decide between ground ball tendencies or fly ball tendencies… sure, you’ll take ground balls. But you make it sound as though a pitcher with flyball tendencies can’t be successful.
Are you telling me there have never been any successful flyball pitchers? Are you telling me that there aren’t any in the league right now? I don’t think it would take a great deal of research to find that there are.
I say again, whether it’s by inducing ground balls or pop-flies… succesful pitchers keep the ball of the fat part of the bat (and don’t walk too many batters of course). If you can do that, you’ll win a lot of games.
When James doesn’t issue many free passes and keeps hitters off balance, he’s great… regardless of the ground/fly ball ratio.
By TennesseePaul
April 30, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
I think, as far as Dirtbag SS go, Longoria will be better than Tulowitzki. And saying Tulowitzki is going to be battling Jose Reyes over the next 10 years based on how little time he’s been around does little justice to Stephen Drew who has also been around for only a short while and has produced better numbers than Tulowitzki during that similarly small time frame. But Reyes has a sizable head start on all of these guys. It is yet to be seen if this crew of young SS will match the mid-90’s crew of Tejada, Jeter, Nomar, and A-Rod.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this
Don,
Did you ever see Babe Ruth play? How do you know he was a Hall of Famer? Can’t make any judgments about him because we didn’t see him play, right? Or is it we just can’t use stats or other evidence to judge him, we just have to rely on old timers who saw him play?
By MBATL
April 30, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
Well, I’m sorry to see Langerhans go. I think he was just starting to swing the bat better. But, I’m not gonna whine about it. It IS a failure for the organization - you want the guys you develop and choose as regulars to work out, and now we’re scrambling in late April. Anyway….
I agree that our offense will be fine, barring major injuries. A couple guys are hitting above their heads right now, average-wise, but the power and RBI’s are well-distributed, not relying too much on any 1 or 2 guys, and I think we’ll continue to score runs.
The pitching simply has to get better if we’re gonna stay in the race. James is what he is… a good #3. He really needs to get deeper into some games, and hopefully he will.
I think Davies can be okay as a #5 starter. He obviously needs to work on throwing strikes. But, the average #5 starter in the NL last year posted a 6.21 era. I think Davies, if given a chance, will do better than that (if only by a little). But he does have upside.
If Cormier can come back and give us a decent job at #4 (a high 4’s, low 5’s era), the back end of the rotation is okay. Sure, you’d rather have better, but so would everybody else. (and I don’t know what you do with Redman… trade him to the Yankees?)
The entire staff, except a couple of guys, just needs to quit walking people. 109 walks in 216 innings is suicide.
And what I read between the lines in Wickman’s comments is that he’s being over-used. I do think Bobby is struggling a little in figuring out how to use his bullpen. I’d like to see him stretch a couple of guys out to 2 innings - mainly, Soriano.
By KC
April 30, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine: I have a nice Gaylord Perry chizzle-N-Vasoline-ball.
By Jim
April 30, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this
The next closest SS to Reyes over the next 5 years is H. Ramirez and don’t forget about Rollins.
By KC
April 30, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this
I wonder if Colorado would be at all open to trading Aaron Cook? We could give them a nice package of young talent in return.
Not pitching in Denver, his already good ERA from the last couple year would probably drop at least a 1/2 run.
By Ron
April 30, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Before we give up the Farm system for a LF, lets see what Diaz can do, lets give him the month of May, and if he stinks it up like Langy did, then Lets trade or whatever, Lets wait first, we gave Langy a month, its now Diaz turn!!!
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
KC,
He isn’t a #3 at this point of his career. End of story. Not saying he never will be, but the Braves are stretching to think he could give us #3 starter season. And no I don’t want to hear he is better than a lot of #3 starters in the National League. The NL sucks. I want this team winning the world series, probably last shot since Andruw is leaving. James vs. El Duque in the playoffs…..LOSS. James vs. Brad Penny in the playoffs…LOSS. James versus Greg Maddux in the playoffs…LOSS. There are tons of flyball pitchers who have done well. Schilling is one of the best RHP in the modern era, he is a big time flyball pitcher. We need another starter, a real #3.
By KC
April 30, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this
Jim: Don’t forget about Furcal either. He had a great year for LA last season. Posted a very good OBP… he’s still one of the fastest players in the league, and like Reyes, has some pop in his bat.
By Virgl
April 30, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
When you look at where the Braves were last year then this year looks really good. This is the normal pattern…they come out hot, go into a funk in late April and May and then start firing on all cylinders middle of June to the end. Looks like the Braves are on their way.
By Ron
April 30, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
DOB, Thats probably why the Mets traded for Green, not to mention he is still a solid Right Fielder, they got him to kill the Braves, and he has not disapointed, he has killed the Braves since he went to the Mets!!! As soon as the Mets traded for him last year I went ahh hell not this guy, anybody but him, because he kills the Braves every single time. DOB, has he ever went hitless against the Braves in a game, I would highly doubt it!!!
By Densey
April 30, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
Ernesto, I don’t think Hampton counts as a fifth we haven’t had him in 2 years. Can’t count on anything we never had! The Spring rotation doesn’t count as the Opening day Rotation
By Ron
April 30, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Tennessee Paul, Tulowitzki will be TOP 5 SS in the next 5 years, no doubt, no question about it. He has the arm, speed, glove, power, baserunning, 5 TOOL PLAYER, very very rare!!! Let me ask everybody something, who do yall think will be better Tulowitzki, or Elvis Andrus? I would much rather have Tulowitzki, he is going to be OUTSTANDING!!!
By We Have Mets the Enemy
April 30, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
I’m going to bring to a close now all discussion regarding a certain player’s ability to dominate another team:
James Rodney Richard vs. the Los Angeles Dodgers
J.R. Richard was a dominating pitcher before his career was tragically cut short by a stroke, but the Dodgers of 1976-1980 had a lineup filled with good hitters and some sturdy pitching themselves, yet they were no match at all for J.R. Richard.
Richard’s numbers against the Dodgers were otherworldly, Shaun, and I don’t need to look them up because I was there to see it. But if you want to delve into the stats, feel free, because they will confirm what I’m telling you. J.R. Richard was a dominant pitcher in his day and probably had very good stats against a lot of teams, but he absolutely owned the Los Angeles Dodgers like no other pitcher in history.
It’s no disgrace to be wrong, Shaun, but stubbornly sticking by a lost point only makes you look all the more foolish.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Ron,
Right now, Tulowitzki. Tulowitzki hit at A and AA. Andrus hasn’t played above Rookie and A ball. Hard to get a read on how good he is at this point. But, as you say, we know Tulowitzki is likely going to be a top 5 SS pretty soon.
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
Andrus isn’t hitting in High Single A. He has been bad.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
Densey that was the planned rotation - even the Mets can say they don’t have Pedro. Guys who are on the shelf count b/c they’re on the team, they’re countig against payroll and you ddin’t go out and get someone else (or you did at the last minute: Redman) because you were counting on them.
By Laurance Maney
April 30, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Winston suggests that “Peter Gammons, the best analyst on tv and a hall of famer, calls Cox the best manager he has ever seen.” Everyone’s entitled to an opinion, but isn’t this the same Peter Gammons that had Andruw selling beach towels and George Lombard in centerfield seven or eight years ago? Peter Gammons is a baseball celebrity. So is Fox’s Joe Buck. That status doesn’t keep either from being an idiot.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
We Have Mets the Enemy,
Looking at the numbers deeper, it’s hard to see that Richard was significantly better against the Dodgers than he was against a few other teams. Dodger Stadium and the Astrodome were both pitchers parks so he didn’t have to ever face the Dodgers in a tough park. Not saying he wasn’t impressive against them but we’d expect his ERA to be lower against them.
It may be more impressive what he did against the Mets. They were bad in the late 1970’s but okay in the early-to-mid ‘70’s. He posted a 1.90 ERA against them.
By Shaun
April 30, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
We Have Mets the Enemy,
As I said, my argument is players own certain types of players they are hitting or pitching against and players may own certain ballparks but players don’t own certain teams. It’s weird to say Richard owned the Dodgers players but not the Dodgers but I think it’s important to distinguish between the two when your talking about causes of players possibly “owning” a team.
By BB FAN
April 30, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
Shaun, Some guys just “own” teams. Shawn Green against the Braves is a perfect example.
You are a good guy. And I usually try to read your posts…even though you ramble on about stats a little too much. But anyway, you need to learn to accept when you are wrong. You remind me of my wife. She does the same thing.
It’s OK to be wrong. It happens to all of us. The bigger person admits when they are wrong. In fact, it really makes a person look bad when they are too stubborn to admit it.
By KC
April 30, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
Efrim:
Well he hasn’t pitched like one through his firsts 5 stats (or how ever many it’s been)… I’ll give you that. We’ll have to wait and see what happens the rest of the way. But after seeing what he did last year, it is not at all unreasonable to expect that he’ll be a quality pitcher.
By Coach
April 30, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this
NEWS FLASH ! For all you self absorbed bloggers. El Duque(Orlando Hernandez)just went on the DL. This is a break for our Braves and a blow to the Mets pitching.
By ernesto
April 30, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
NEWS FLASH! That’s been on the blog for hours Coach.
By Coach
April 30, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
Wickman’s trip to the DL is a speed bump compared to the loss of El Duque. Gonzalez and Soriano will pick up the slack and keep on trucking. The Mets will miss Orlando Hernandez , his loss brings their rotation down to earth.
By Coach
April 30, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Where ? Ernesto , where ? Not in this blog. Always a smart a.s.s in the bunch.
By Jim
April 30, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
Coach,
Did I miss something? Did Wickman go on the DL?
By serbok
April 30, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this
Excellent POST::::: By Laurance Maney
April 30, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this
Winston suggests that “Peter Gammons, the best analyst on tv and a hall of famer, calls Cox the best manager he has ever seen.” Everyone’s entitled to an opinion, but isn’t this the same Peter Gammons that had Andruw selling beach towels and George Lombard in centerfield seven or eight years ago? Peter Gammons is a baseball celebrity. So is Fox’s Joe Buck. That status doesn’t keep either from being an idiot.
By serbok
April 30, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this
Shaun~ quick question? Why do you insist on calling DOB by his last name?Makes you sound like one of my jock friends from high school that is now doing foreign policy research for the bush administration
By Don
April 30, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this
Shaun, it’s quite a way from projecting a guy’s career based on minor league stats and a month in the bigs to saying that one had to see Babe Ruth to say he’s a Hall of Famer. In fact it’s a ludicrous comparison, not that I’d expect anything else from you.
By serbok
April 30, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
chipper is Awesome!
By Efrim
April 30, 2007 8:27 PM | Link to this
Looks like we will have to come back again tonight.