Braves

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

What were the Mets thinking trading away Heath Bell, Royce Ring, Matt Lindstrom, and Henry Owens in two trades where they got Jon Adkins, Ben Johnson, Justin Vargas and whoever!!! One of the few poor Minaya moves as Mets GM.

By Bryan

May 9, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Dave,

this is Bryan, freshly back from my adventure in UT with Navajos and Cainsaws… . been following the braves on my xm and reading the blogs… had a few questions…

Where is Ken Ray? Wasn’t he a rule 5 guy? Or did KC just pick him up on wavers this winter? He is not with the pro-club.

If Willie Harris slides up to leadoff … where do we put James and should we slide AJ back (like we did a few years ago)? I remember some jackass analysts from ESPN predicting during that slump that Jones would NEVER reclaim the clean up spot after his slide …

Have you heard the new Elliot Smith b-side collation?

What do you think the best REM album is? (i read a lot about peoples favorite songs - mines probably gardening at night).

Will “Chesty” Lerew keep doin what he did last night?

Thanks.

By P'Cola Michael

May 9, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Trade Wickman?? I don’t think that would be wise, unless you get a ton in return. Pitching, as we have shown over the past decade, is a hot commodity. Champions are made in close games. If we can shorten the games to 6-ish innings as we have, we have a better shot. Look at the numbers, we usually start game off good, fade in middle innings and step it up when we get to the MR (7-8 inning guys).

By Jim

May 9, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

I just posted this on the last blog as DOB was starting a new one.

We are unlikely to get a young major league pitcher like Cain, Weaver (the Younger), Hamels, etc. for Salty or Salty + one more prospect, and such a trade would be very risky. Getting only one pitcher in return raises the possibility that that one pitcher could break down and get injured or lose something off his fastball, etc.

If we were to talk in terms of people within our own system, we would need to get Lerew, Harrison or Jo Jo Reyes, and Hanson or Lyman or Jones for Salty and say D. Hernandez (the 2B at Miss.) Salty, at his stage of development and at his position, is much more projectable than any of the pitchers, but with 3 quality arms coming back, you reduce the liability that you have with trading a position player for a pitcher

By Shaun

May 9, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

meansonny, to respond to what you said on the previous blog:

I agree. It is an outside shot for either pitcher to win 400.

I think Maddux has a better shot to remain effective enough for more than 5 more seasons.

I can see Maddux averaging 10 more wins for six more years. It’s kind of a long shot at his age but he’s certainly the type of pitcher who could do it.

By Fred from CT

May 9, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

DOB Would the braves considering closing someone else if wickman struggles continue when he comes back. Would wickman be okay with that he seems like a stand up guy and would be okay pitching the seventh for a winning team. just saying I think it would make us a lot better down there in the bullpen with soriano or gonzo closing because of there power.

By DonCoburleone

May 9, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

DOB I agree with what you said about trading Wickman - Only if we get something we need in return. And lets face it, there aren’t any contenders out there right now who need a closer. Maybe an injury or two before July can change that, but I just don’t see it right now. But lets get real here, what could we really get for Wickman? I doubt anyone would trade us a starter of any value; or a center-field prospect. And if we couldn’t get either one of those, then whats the point of trading him?

By Fred from CT

May 9, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

I hope the fans going to the game tonight give maddux the standing ovation he deserves.

By Jim

May 9, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Efrim, from the last blog

I agree that last year’s selection of Cody Johnson as our number 1 pick was a huge mistake. He would probably have still been available for one of our sandwich picks if we really wanted him. I am concerned that the pick may have had more to do with affordability than assessment of talent. There were college arms that went later that would have cost more money to sign.

With the 14th pick this year I hope we are able to acquire a highly projectable quality arm. We also have a pick between the first and second round courtesy of Danys Baez. We have to hope that that pick might be the best part of the Betemint trade.

By .30-06

May 9, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

1st time posting, but have read the blog religiously for the past year. I know DOB wrote yesterday about some of Maddux’s pranks and I wanted to share one with yall that a former friend of mine, who also happened to be a groundskeeper for the braves told me one time. He said they were out working on the field before batting practice and maddux strolls out and looked at em and said which on of u #$&#@%’s thinks you can hit off of me? well they all stood in and got about 6 swings off of him, my friend talked about being excitied he hit one out of the infield…just thought i’d share that with yall, I thought that was a funny story. Imma close with saying i believe shipper is going to have a monster yr and i truly hope his feet dont become troublesome as this season continues, keep up the good work DOB

By gotigers72

May 9, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Bryan - Ken Ray is pitching for KC’s AAA team, I think in Omaha. He’s not doing well. The last time I checked, his ERA was over 6. You can go to minorleaguebaseball.com and type his [or anybody else’s] name in player search and find out how they’re doing.

I believe the offense is gonna pick up soon. They weren’t 2nd in the league last year for nothing. Every team goes through offensive slumps during the year. Hope this is the Braves and it’s over soon. The fact that the 3 and 4 hitters have not been producing [understatement] has a lot to do with that. Edgar is the only hot Brave right now. Get 3 or 4 guys hot at the same time, and it will happen, and they will start scoring runs in bunches.

IMO, the Braves should not trade Gonzalez, Wickman or Soriano this year. Keep all 3 for the entire year. The starters, outside of Smoltz and Hudson, have been terrible. Let’s at least have a dominant bullpen.

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Jim,

Agreed. Daniel Bard was selected right after we took Johnson. Stupid move on our part. Last time I checked, we don;t have anyone in the minors with Bard’s arm. Right handers with his potential don’t come around very often. Stupid move.

By Jim

May 9, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

It is an outside shot for either Maddux or Clemens to get to 374 and third place on the all-time list. Case in point — Warren Spahn. At age 42 in 1963 he went 23 - 7 with a 2.6 ERA to get to 350 wins. It seemed reasonable that in two more years he would get to 370+ and it was even conceivable that he could reach 400 since he was giving no indication of slowing down, but the next year he suddenly became very old and 373 became an unreachable milestone.

I think (hope) that this could happen to Clemens given his age and other commitments, and as for Maddux, as he becomes more and more ordinary, his pride and his concern for his legacy will probably tell him that enough is enough.

By Thrillhouse44

May 9, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

I guess I’m going to have to suck it up and get Direct TV next year…

By BossLady

May 9, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Maddux has set records and put up numbers that will probably never be broken. I thought Prior and Woods could have started a new generation of great pitchers but they cannot stay healthy. The number of consecutive 15 game wins and strikeouts are there to stay. He is by far better than Glavine and Smoltz although they all were pitching for us so there was no big deal. Now, I want Smoltz to quiet their bats and get the win.

By Grahamdawg

May 9, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Clemens is taking human growth hormone! How else can you explain his remarkable stats well into his 40s?

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

DOB

Thanks for the Tom Waits. GREAT STUFF. But I only had 1 girlfriend who would let me play his cd’s outside of my car. Wonder why?

I agree with Wick on the trading bloc just like Salty. Test the market and see what comes calling.

The only need I would focus on is a quality starter.

I see a 3 team trade to pull it off (why would a contender give up starting pitching? why would a non-contender want Wick?) Package Salty in the mix, and see what kind of quality pitcher we can get back.

By brent a.

May 9, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

The national fanbase will slowly deteriorate for the Braves.

However, it is large enough now, that the South will stay strong Braves country, and parts of the country (Wyoming, New Mexico, the Dakota’s, etc.) will still have a strong Braves following as well.

If the Braves payroll grows appropriately, and the team stays competitive, then the fan base will remain strong. I certainly plan to pass along my fanhood to my offspring, and trust that many other parents will as well.

Satellite TV and games on the internet are becoming so common, it is not hard to follow your team. The Braves, due to TBS, had a built in advantage to create a national following. Now, while that advantage is going away, there is no one else to create that same type of advantage.

Thus, don’t look for Houston, or Colorado, or Detroit to ever be able to create what the Braves did.

Therefore, I think the most popular teams in baseball will continue to be the Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, Braves, Dodgers, and Cardinals, as well as the flavor of the year participants.

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Bryan, welcome back.

Your Ken Ray question was answered above. He was waived by the Braves in October, if I’m not mistaken. I think I was at the World Series when that happened.

“If” Willie Harris slides to leadoff? Haven’t heard any such discussion whatsoever. Why on earth would you move the leadoff man with the highest leadoff on-base percentage in major league ball?

Love the REM best-of IRS album. Much better than the other best-of, because most of my favorite stuff of theirs was from the IRS years, though I also love a lot of the later stuff that some other long-time fans aren’t as fond of.

Don’t have the Elliott Smith B-sides thing. I’ve heard all that re-released stuff of his is great, though. I’m sure it is.

I was just listening to the new Arctic Monkeys CD in the car driving down here. Very good. Love that and the Nick Cave Grinderman.

By Fred from CT

May 9, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

really sad about TBS not doing braves games anymore. My family grew up in connecticut my dad and my brothers all braves fans thanks to TBS. Now there taking it away. I will have to listen on the XM a lot. hopefully one day get out of my apartment and get a house so I could get the dish. let’s go braves

By BravesScout

May 9, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Those of you wishing the Braves had taken a College Arm rather than Johnson in last years draft consider the following: 1)College Pitchers the likes of Hochevar and Bard get bonuses 2-3 times the size of Johnson without 2-3 times greater of a chance for success. Think about Joey Devine who the braves tried to pluck right out of NC State. College Pitchers are a better bet on some occasions but not necessarily for the money some of the with a certain agent(Scott Boras).
2) Give Johnson some time. It is going to take a High School kid(not named Francouer or McCann) a few years to develop. Heck it even took them 3 years. You cannot start to look at a baseball Draft for 3-5 years after to start seeing the impact.

The Braves scouting department is one of the best in baseball. Look how good Richmond and Mississippi are doing right now. Hard to complain about that. Have some faith.

Oh yea, DOB- Justin Germano pitched last night. He may not last long, but he was at least worth remembering last night.

Thanks for the Blog, its a great way to waste time on the net.

By joebrave

May 9, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

DOB are the Braves wearing throwbacks this year? If they are I hope they use the 1970 version man those things were a true classic!As for trades If any deal is done I hope A.J will forget his selfishness and accept the only deal that makes sense which is to the Dodgetrs for M.Kemp and J. Broxton.

By ncscoots

May 9, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

Trading Wickman. While that scenario could be certainly be countenanced as a good business move (all components of such a trade being valid, etc.), it would leave me cold.

As an organization, there are some lines you don’t cross, some things you don’t do, if you expect to earn and keep deserving the adjective “class”.

To trade Wickman, who practically forced Cleveland to send him here, who’s playing for less money than he could have gotten elsewhere, and who appears to be a terrific teammate and good citizen, would be more “crass” than “class”, IMO, regardless of the return in such a trade. It’s the kind of thing I’d expect from oh, say, Tampa Bay…not the Atlanta Braves.

Don’t give me the “it’s a business” crap, either. Businesses, good ones, run on integrity as much as anything else. Braves have long had such a mindset, it seems to me, but trading Wickman, again IMO, would fly in the face of that.

By joebrave

May 9, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

I just had a terrible thought remember Deion Sanders? god I hope M.Vick doesn’t want to play for the Braves(whew) what a mistake that’d be!!!!

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

Phil Niekro was 48 when he retired. Maddux will have to work on a knuckler in my opinion if he’s going to last >=6 more seasons anywhere near 175+ innings.

Maybe DOB can shed some light into Greg Maddux’s psyche. Is he as competitive as Smoltz? Does he dread the possibility of retirement (and the boredom which could follow)? Is he hung up on records? Does he love the locker room enough to learn a knuckleball?

Who knows? Some guys just won’t leave the game unless its involuntary.

By joebrave

May 9, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Doggie versus Smoltzie man I can’t wait this is gonna be good,and was it just me or did Bobby Cox seem irritated after last nights game?

By joebrave

May 9, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Doggie will put a booger on his first pitch man that was hilarious!!

By jason

May 9, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I think we are better off keeping Salty. If we commit to him, then he will be fine to play first while Thorman shifts to Left. The only thing we should do differently is to trade Andruw if he would consent. By trading him, we could correct the Pitching staff, and get a young replacement. Our Lineup would be fine without him and our staff would be better.

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

ncscoots,

Good post about class.

That said, you trade from excess strenths to improve your weaknesses and deficiencies.

Our strengths are relief pitching (MLB level), abundant MLB offense, minor league prospects at C and up the middle.

I’m not saying MAKE THE TRADE. But I’d like to hear what’s available. That’s only prudent.

By MGL

May 9, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

ncscoots - I agree on Wicky!!

By chi-lite

May 9, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Thanks for citing the great James McMurtry!

By brian

May 9, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

how many come from behind wins (7th inning on) did the Braves have last year? What is the total this year?

What was the Braves record in 1 run games last year? This year?

Very encouraging so far this year but we need to get consistent hitting and something out of the back end of the rotation (stating the obvious I know). I just cannot believe that Andruw will continue to stink it up the whole year in his contract year. Lerew is finally pitching up to his potential. Hopefully Davies will take note and do the same. Now if only Chuck James could find the strike zone.

I am fired up for Maddux-Smoltz. Two Hall of Fame pitchers who spent their prime with the Braves. I am enjoying all the attention the Braves are getting for Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz still - that is from everyone but ESPN.

By test

May 9, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

test

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 9, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

For all the reason ncscoots states, the only place you could trade Wickman would be back to Cleveland. And then, you could realistically only ask for roughly what you gave up, a mid level prospect.

Keep him in Atlanta for the character he brings to the bullpen and clubhouse. (I am assuming this, as I have not spent any time in the clubhouse!)

By Kieran from Long Island

May 9, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

What do you think the trade value of a guy like Yates or Paranto would be if they keep thier ERA down around 3.50 by the trade deadline? I mean, with the completely lack of depth in bullpens around the majors, you’d have to think there would be a few teams, particularly in thr American league, who would give up a bat to get one of them. With the woes that teh yankees have seen, the woes that teh Red Sox WILL see, the injury to Joel Zumaya, and the Pitchingless dograce in the AL West, You figure JS is starting to smell a suiter for a couple of those guys who a year ago, not only had zero value, but nearly didn’t have jobs.

I dont know how realistic that is, but it sure would feel great to get solid trade value out of former castoffs, wouldn’t it?

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but perhaps some credit needs to begiven to Roger for the resurrection of these three players (Yates, Paranto, Moylan). Although I bet tehres a real good pitching coach down there in AAA based on what I’ve seen out of Paranto Moylan and Lerew, Anybody know anything about that?

All that being said, when Maddux retires, byebye Roger, we gotta clear a spot on the bench for the professor.

By eric the elder

May 9, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Tonight’s game has the feel of an exhibition game, like the barnstorming games in the old days. Satchel Paige versus Josh Gibson.

Potentially lost is the fact that the Braves have a chance to take another series. Let’s hope Smoltz can stay focused while having fun.

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

BravesScout,

Name me the last Matt Cain, Jered Weaver, Felix Hernandez, Phillip Hughes, Homer Bailey, Yovani Gallardo, Tim Lincecum, Jonathon Papelbon, Jon Lester, Cole Hamels, Clay Bucholz, etc. I can name more but you get the idea man. Just seems like it has been a while since the Braves had a power arm like the rest of these teams. STRIKE OUTS MAN!!! THAT IS WHAT MAKES AN ACE!!!!

By Ohio Brave

May 9, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

For those of us who follow the Braves nationwide it just hasnt been the reduction of TBS games over the years, but also the switching of radio stations. I can get 750 anywhere but when I am in ATL cant get 640 outside the perimeter.
The other thing is that although yes, I can get the games next year on satellite or internet, but its the $200 I am already spending on the birds and the 120 on Tech and now I gotta find another $200? Of course I’ll find the extra cash and pay it, but I think having to pay will just kill our national base eventually.

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 9, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Really, we don’t have anyone short of prospects to trade for adding rotation help or help in LF. I don’t think you let Saltalamacchia lightly. It looks like we will pin our hopes on a cheap pickup or move Escobar for some help. Short of that, we bring up a couple of guys (BJones, Blanco, Escobar, Harrison, Reyes, Devine, Boyer, McBride, etc.).

And there are some who still talk about trading Andruw. As much as I would like to move him, he is not going anywhere!!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

an epic post by the esteemed winner of the wurlitzer and the best of cox:

By David O’Brien

May 9, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

“Time for the Truth: Where I’m from, a loogie was always what you described, extracted from the sinus cavity and/or throat and spit out. But Chipper called a booger a loogie, and when I asked others they said they also had referred to it as such growing up.”

“Then I googled it and, indeed, found that a lot of people consider it either/or.”

“Anyway, he was talking about something you pick from your nose, not spit.”

what can be said about such a post? this is still a guy blog. love the girls coming around but dob has demonstrated with this booger post that this blog remains a guy blog. the girls aren’t going to talk boogers.

and what manner of journalist googles a booger?

now, lerew really pitched well last night. if mcdowell changed lerew’s delivery and really deserves credit for the results then mcdowell has grown into the job. one thing this journallist is sure of … somebody taught paronto how to make that sinker sink more than it wanted to sink when paronto first arrived. paronto has been a most pleasant story this year.

now, all this talk of which players are black and which players are african-american and which players are something else got this journalist to thinking about the famous fight between hank aaron and the beeg boy. aaron insisted the beeg boy was black and the beeg boy insisted otherwise. not sure about the rest but the local media reported beeg boy got the best of the fight. and the beeg boy was moved to another team. and to the blogger who continues to ask if jimmy smith is white or black. yes.

now, epic post today … why all this booger talk with the braves? many teams are known for scratching and/or spitting but this braves team seems to be a nose-picking group. comes from the top, this journalist supposes. it is well known that the dugout rails are covered in boogers but is it possible that the other side of those homeboy suspenders may be hiding a few? a leader leads.

By ncscoots

May 9, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

For those who think the season will hinge on the back of the rotation, a query: who were the 3-4-5 starters for Arizona behind Schilling and Johnson? Anyone? Bueller?

If you remember, you’re better than I. Guess my point is that, given Smoltz and Hudson continue to pitch superbly, the rest of the rotation has to only, well, not stink. Two horses and three average pitchers will win a lot of pennants. BTW, I think I’ll exclude Redman for purposes of this analysis, LOL. The team is 8-5 in starts made by James/Davies/Lerew and that is in definite not-stink territory.

By MGL

May 9, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

End of the 5th, Giants leading Mutts 3-2.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

DOB may have to see a doctor later. I can see it now…

Doctor: “What have you been eating?”

DOB: “Well, you see…” BARF!

Both stare at the floor.

DOB: “That right there!”

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

Why are there fans saying trade Wickman?!?!? WHy?!?!? What will you get out of that??!?!?!?! No one is going to give you an MLB caliber player or a very good prospect for him. So, why, oh why?!?!?! Do people think before they type?!?!?! YOu’ve got three good relievers in Soriano, Gonzo, and Wickman. Why would you want to mess that up. You have a sure thing from the seventh onward. Yates, Paronto, etc., do you really want those guys out there in critical moments? I believe we tried that last year and it ended pretty ugly. Do people just ask to make trades for the sake of it? Right now, with this team, you have 11 core guys - McCann, KJ, Renteria, Chipper, Andruw, Frenchy, Smoltz, Hudson, Wickman, Soriano, Gonzalez - that is the core of this team and if you want to win this year, they are untradeable and none of them are likely to be traded THIS year. Druw will be gone next year, Renteria maybe as well and perhaps Wickman. Those guys are absolutely needed if this team is going to do anything this year.

Thorman, James, Salty are only tradeable if you get blown away by the offer.

Diaz, Orr, Woodward, Harris, Pena, Redman, Davies, Villeral, Yates, Paronto, and all the other joey bag of donuts we got playing on this team are expendable at the drop of a hat. Some of these guys are obviously more valuable than others but pretty much anyone not in the top 14 group of talents can be easily moved IMO.

By Jim

May 9, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

What is this nonsense about trading Wickman. An old, soft-tossing relief pitcher (or even a young, hard-throwing relief pitcher) is not going to bring back a major league starter. It only took a mid-level class A prospect for us to get him in the first place and we wouldn’t get much more in return by trading him. Besides, We are tied for first-place today despite the ineffectiveness of 3/5 of the starting rotation BECAUSE of the depth and strength of the bullpen. We should not be (and I’m sure JS is not considering) dealing away from the strength we spent all winter trying to build.

By brewdawg

May 9, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

This has nothing to do with any of the above topics mentioned, but if Bobby Cox does retire in a couple of years - sorry haters, that is definitely NOT a good thing - I think I’d like to see Eddie Perez get the job. For years I’ve heard about how he had a good career ahead of him in management, and he’s already held in great regards within the organization. Perhaps he hasn’t “paid his dues” managing wise yet, but I think he’d be a fantastic “player’s manager”. Thoughts anyone?

By geauxbraves2000

May 9, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

The Braves need to keep the Big 3 together this season, that may be their best chance of making it to post season, and having sucess. The offense is too inconsistent, but if they can score 3 or more runs a game, with the Big 3, I think the Braves will win more than they lose.

And as shown time and time again, in the playoffs, superior pitching prevails.

Geaux Braves

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 9, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Efrim: I love the heater too, but does that mean the Braves didn’t have 3 aces back in the 90’s (Maddux and Glavine are not fireballers)? Just something to think about. Again, the fastball is great, but I also like a control pitcher that knows how to mix it up with location and speed.

I think we have a few potential aces in the minors now, but as I have always contended, only about 1 in 5 of those “phenoms” actually becomes regular rotation guys.

Harrison, Reyes, Lerew, Hanson, Beau Jones, Feliz, Stevens, Richmond, Rasmus, Locke, Evarts are a few names of potential stars down on the farm. That’s 11 names, and maybe 2 or 3 make it to the bigs???

By Chop Chop

May 9, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

I’m kinda hoping that Smoltz will accuse Maddux of being a cheater at some point tonight.

“Hey, ump. Check the ball. He’s been using boogers on that cutter for years.”

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

OhioBrave. 94.9 FM has been very good to me this season. There’s usually about 3 FM affiliates outside of Atlanta that will carry games. Hopefully one will help you out.

Ideally, we keep Salty and Wick. And sign a free agent in the offseason.

The starting pitching conundrum is worth looking into. How many of us thought we’d be able to get more efficient results from Hampton, Redman, Cormier, Davies, & James than we are actually receiving.

Salty and Wick are commodities not to be taken lightly (as is Escobar or Andrus, etc). But for a solid starter who can greatly improve our chances in a 5 and 7 game October series? I’m open to possibilities.

It’d probably take a 3 team deal, but I think there’s one worth entertaining.

By MGL

May 9, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

John Maine is done for the day at 3ER, 6BB, 4K after 6, Giants still lead 3 - 2.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

Hello, hello, hello Is there anybody in there? Just nod if you can hear me. Is there anyone at home?

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

I like Harrison, Hanson, Richmond, Evarts. Reyes’s weight is an issue. I don’t know if any have the ceiling of the pitchers tha I mentioned as I mentioned in my last post. Maybe Hanson.

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Jim, You mention that the 3/5 of the starting rotation is ineffective.

Do you remember what Smoltz complained about while in the pen during October. You need quality starting pitching even before you can bring in your stud relievers. We’ve got a great offense. But don’t be fooled into thinking that our bats won’t cool down in October (against the best pitching).

I love our pen. I LOVE IT. But if we could turn our 3/5 ineffective rotation into a 3/5 best in MLB? I’m open to considering a deal.

We’d still have a solid pen (look how good they’ve done with Wick out). And they might even get to rest their arms on their way into October with another reliable starter.

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Everyone chill on Andrus. Hasn’t done a thing this year. Didn’t have a good year last year. Jury is still out on him. I think he also has 8 errors. I’m not saying he won’t be great, but he hasn’t produced to this point.

By James

May 9, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, you might want to start following Jordan Schafer who I talked about earlier. He is batting 290 at high A and 362 at low and high A combined this year and leads the entire minor leagues with 50 hits. He is a center fielder.

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 9, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Efrim: I love the heater too, but does that mean the Braves didn’t have 3 aces back in the 90’s (Maddux and Glavine are not fireballers)? Just something to think about. Again, the fastball is great, but I also like a control pitcher that knows how to mix it up with location and speed.

I think we have a few potential aces in the minors now, but as I have always contended, only about 1 in 5 of those “phenoms” actually becomes regular rotation guys.

Harrison, Reyes, Lerew, Hanson, Beau Jones, Feliz, Stevens, Richmond, Rasmus, Locke, Evarts are a few names of potential stars down on the farm. That’s 11 names, and maybe 2 or 3 make it to the bigs???

By James

May 9, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

Efrim, Andrus is still a teenager!

By Ron Roberts

May 9, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

DOB… what contending teams do you think will find themselves needing a Bob Wickman, come July 31?

The reason I ask is because it would seem anybody needing a closer might not be willing to part with a starter, and right now, that’s our priority need, wouldn’t ya think?

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

JIm, I agree that at this point, they shouldn’t _ and aren’t _ even talking about trading a relief pitcher, and I don’t think there’s any way they trade one of the young studs, Soriano and Gonzalez, so don’t even worry about that.

I was only saying that, since several people asked me about possiblity of trading Wickman, that I could see a scenario developing in late summer where that might POSSIBLY happen. But again, it’s so far down the line, and only presuming the other two stay healthy and effective, and someone else has stepped up, too. And ONLY if they got something in return that made it worthwhile. Certainly wouldn’t do it unless they got something valuable back, long as Wickman was performing well.

It’s not worth discussing now, really, considering other matters.

And by the way, don’t forget Sturtze. He could be headed to Florida soon to start throwing in some game situations. He’s getting closer, won’t be ready until June at earliest, but could be here before All-Star break. And he could be a big addition as another proven setup guy or middle guy.

By Lew

May 9, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

Efrim-You want strikeouts? Check out Thomas Hanson at Rome. He has 45 K in 30IP. Or Matt Harrison who has 25K in 36 IP. Or JoJo Reyes, who has 30K in 37IP. Harrison and Ryes are at Mississipi. We’ve got power pitchers on the way.

By NYC

May 9, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this

For those who think the season will hinge on the back of the rotation, a query: who were the 3-4-5 starters for Arizona behind Schilling and Johnson? Anyone? Bueller?

nscoots: I believe the 3rd starter was Todd Stottlemeyer..after that..don’t know.

By Chop Chop

May 9, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

Tanyon Sturtze

The only thing Tanyon Sturtze has proven is that he’s mediocre. I just hope he’s not counted on for much.

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Lerew is talking about chemistry on 680 the fan right now. Nice to have a good core from the farm up in Atlanta.

By Ron Roberts

May 9, 2007 6:08 PM | Link to this

NCScoots… We may not need potent 3-4-5 guys in the rotation, but we sure as heck need ‘em to carry their weight half their starts, I’d say.

If you can get a .667 winning percentage in your 1-2 guys’ games, and .500 in the games your 3-5 guys pitch, you’re probably in the playoffs with a record around 92-70.

Chuck James will get it together, and hearing that Lance Cormier’s doing better and on the path (hopefully) to recovery is welcome news. Having Lerew pitch as he did last night is, too… and just having options for the 5th spot in the rotation is a blessing most teams don’t enjoy.

Come PLAYOFF time, it’s the 1-2 guys that win you series, and I think we’re stacking up to have the best 1-2 tandem in the NL, if not all of baseball.

But let’s get those 3-5 guys in line so we even get there. Every other aspect of this team is shaping up to be pennant and playoff-worthy.

By Steve McP

May 9, 2007 6:12 PM | Link to this

Mets go two ahead in 9th with only 1 out!!!!

By bruce

May 9, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

After seeing Andruw intentionally hit an outside pitch to right-center last night, I withdraw my suggestion on previous blog that he be dropped down the line up a slot or two. I thought I was seeing the impossible, but it really made a difference.

By DonCoburleone

May 9, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

“For those who think the season will hinge on the back of the rotation, a query: who were the 3-4-5 starters for Arizona behind Schilling and Johnson? Anyone? Bueller?”

That is a he!! of a point ncscoots. I agree. You could also use the Mets of last year (Great offense, great bullpen, decent starters)as an example.

By True Braves Fan

May 9, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

DOB: You wrote“And by the way, don’t forget Sturtze. He could be headed to Florida soon to start throwing in some game situations. He’s getting closer, won’t be ready until June at earliest, but could be here before All-Star break. And he could be a big addition as another proven setup guy or middle guy.” Since he was just transferred to the 60 day DL, when will he be eligible to come off DL?

By meansonny

May 9, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Ron roberts:

It is too early to talk about trades from the pen.

But it isn’t too early to figure out how good a starting rotation is.

Ours isn’t ranking real well right now.

Simple figure… 1-3 starters winning .667 of their games with 4-5 starters going .500. That sounds a lot better going into a 5 and/or 7 game series than your scenario.

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, that’s why it’s not worth discussing now.

So I won’t anymore. Sorry to bring it up.

By NationalLeagueEast

May 9, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

For some reason, MGL stopped updating the score of the Mets game. I wonder why…. Anyway, just to let you know, the Mets just won, 5-3.

By Metropolitan Man

May 9, 2007 6:25 PM | Link to this

The Shaved heads strike again. That felt so good to see A. Benitez blow a save against the bald METS. Dont let the Maddog bite you in the buttocks tonight.

LETS GO METS!!!

By Metropolitan Man

May 9, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

Not a blown save actually but he couldnt hold the potent bats in check in the ninth.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Why does no one mention Dan Smith at AA Mississippi? He’s been better than Harrison and Reyes the last two years. Check his K/IP and BB/K.

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

True Braves Fan, he’d be eligible at the end of May, since they can retro it back to like the last week of spring training (you can use 7 or 9 days of spring for DL assignments, I forget exactly how many).

Needless to say, he’d be eligible anytime in June they wanted to bring him off.

By Dr. Jay

May 9, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

My kneejerk reaction to hearing that tonight’s game would not be on ESPN was “typical bias against Atlanta”, but now that I’ve had a little time to think about it…it’s OK. I can’t stand Miller and Morgan anyway. They’d spend half the game talking about PUSH. Bring on the regional crew.

Interesting thoughts about Wickman’s potential trade value in a few months. It will be interesting to see which teams fall out of the race, and might deal for a number two starter?…maybe?

I’m a big Black Rebel Motorcycle Club fan, but I gotta say I’m disappointed in Baby 81. Wish I could get into Tom Waits, but I had an a-hole ex-boss who was OBSESSED with TW, and I can’t remove the association. I hate it when that happens.

By Ron Roberts

May 9, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Right on; figured it was a muddled situation to even speculate at this point.

But it makes me think back to how the Braves were in a fix last season this time, and how we might’ve had parts to deal (like LaRoche) for a closer last year; just seems this season that most contenders will be looking for starting pitching, too, which is really our one trouble spot.

Even then, by the time the deadline approaches, if Cormier’s back, healthy and looks as good as he did this spring, and Chuckie James gets back on track, I don’t think we have to do anything, per se.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 6:30 PM | Link to this

Well, DOB, sorry for my rant about Wickman. Reading your post and then rereading you blog up above, it does make sense somewhat to trade Wickman if someone is going to give up something of quality - which I personally don’t see - but I am just a fan - you know much more about the possibilities since you are the beat reporter and have your ear permanently planted on the street listening. I would hate to see them trade Wickman - let’s keep this thing in lockdown from the seventh on.

Every five days, you have Smoltz and Hudson, so you know you are safe in their minimum of 12 innings. With Wickman, Soriano, and Gonzalez, you are safe in the last 15 innings. It’s just those other worrisome 18 innings of the other three starters you need to worry about. If James can step up and provide a quality six innings in his starts, then we only need to worry about 12 innings every 5 days. What the hell am I talking about? What was my point? I don’t know. I just made myself dizzy. Don’t trade Wickman I guess was my point - we need him to win what I want the Braves to win this year.

By DonCoburleone

May 9, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

I said this last week on the blog. We NEED a veteran #3 starter to put in this rotation! Chuck James B!tch is an excellent #4 and an average #3 starter and I wouldn’t feel comfortable having him pitch in a game 3 of a playoff series. If we could get a guy like Mark Buehrle or Matt Morris (both of whom would be trade bait if their respective teams fell out of the race) it would make our staff soooo much better. It just sucks Hampton wasn’t able to provide that for us this year (especially since his salary could have been used to sign Glavine)….

BTW, how much better would our starting rotation look if we had signed Glavine back this year???

By Ron Roberts

May 9, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

NL LEAST…

Scroll up; the Mutts going ahead did get reported on.

Give it a rest, dude. I realize being the stepchild in NYC means bloviating on somebody elses’ blog for attention, but this t**-for-tat stuff’s gonna be an all season thing the way both teams are playing. Kinda gettin’ old w/youse guys already.

By NO CHOP ZONE

May 9, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Mets win baby. They go 5-2 on the road trip……NICE. I know, I know willy folly or whatever your name is. You don’t care what the Mets do (Sure you don’t) Oh yeah LEW, here’s another idea. How about a bake sale? It gets the local girls softball team thru the year…..just a thought.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 9, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

Guy Hanson is the pitching coach for the Braves AAA club in Richmond. He has the reputation of being a good one with young pitchers. He has the Richmond staff pitching lights out.

McBride has a “wandering foot”, until he can become consistent with his plant foot he is going to continue to have control problems. He is not walking as many people but he is giving up some hits.

There is another pitcher on the Richmond staff who is having a great year and is going to be pitching in the majors for somebody this year. His name is Buddy Carlyle.

He has not allowed an earned run in his last 31 innings. He is a 29 year old right hander. If Atlanta does not use him someone else can.

By porksword

May 9, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

I’d not consider a trade for any of the bullies; not now or for a long time. The pen is nearly as important (if not as important) than quality starting in today’s game.

Right now it seems that the Braves are pretty tight. There are holes, yeah. Every team has ‘em. Unless there’s some sort of blockbuster lurking beneath the surface, it’s probably best not to tinker.

And for once Dave, you have lyrics to a good song up. Kudos.

By DonCoburleone

May 9, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

McCann is playing tonight… DOB is Cox starting to platoon catcher now that he’s got Salty? I know McCann hurt his hand or whatever, but he’s done just fine in the games he’s played since that happened. What gives?

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

Why does no one mention Dan Smith at AA Mississippi? He’s been better than Harrison and Reyes the last two years. Check his K/IP and BB/K.

KC never stops raving about the guy. DOB wrote about Dan Smith last week. These were DOB’s mentions about Dan Smith:

Braves won’t need a starter for that spot until next Tuesday (May 8), and Bobby said he hasn’t decided, that they’re considering a bunch of options. Oscar Villarreal and, yes, left-hander Dan Smith, are among those options. So might be Anthony Lerew…….. Michael, yes we did just talk about Dan Smith. And one reason I was a big lukewarm about him was the response I got from one Braves official when I mentioned him the other day. Turns out, the person thought I was talking about another Smith _ Travis Smith, perhaps? But when I brought up Dan Smith again today, the person had far better response and explained to me that he thought I was asking about someone else the other day. Anyway, they’re high on Dan Smith. He or Villarreal could get that start. Or one of a few others, but sounded like those two might be leading candidates.

Dan Smith does seem to have some wicked strikeout rations down there.

By DonCoburleone

May 9, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

Yeah, too bad they can’t win at home NO CHOP ZONE… HAHA

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 6:47 PM | Link to this

Is NICE your favorite word No Chop? Are you stuck in a 1980’s time warp or something with that phrase?

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this

Magic Number is 131!

Yes, No Chop, your Tragic Number is 131!

By Fred from CT

May 9, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

no chop zone build your team through your farm system not buying players not free spending then come talk until then shut up

By Mike

May 9, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Thanks Willy Wally. The guy doesn’t get mentioned as much as Reyes and Harrison but definately deserves it. People need to quit dropping names and check the stats (no, not directed at any certain person).

By DonCoburleone

May 9, 2007 7:03 PM | Link to this

Dayne Perry has his latest Power Rankings out. Braves are #6 behind Cleveland, Boston, Detroit, Milwaukee and the Mets… I agree with everything except the Mets, we should be #5 and the Mets #6 considering we are 4-2 against them this year… Anyway, here’s what our good buddy D.P. said about the Braves:

Bob Wickman goes on the DL with back problems, but the Braves should be fine with Rafael Soriano and Mike Gonzalez working the late innings. Kelly Johnson is raking (.314 AVG/.459 OBP/.562 SLG), as is Chipper Jones. More good news: Jeff Francoeur is showing improved plate discpline.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 9, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Very much looking forward to tonight’s matchup of two future HOF pitchers, both of whom will sport the big “A” hat on their bronze bust. Doesn’t get any better than this, unless we’re playing the Muts, Glavine vs Smoltz, and we Scalp Em.

Anybody notice that Anthony Lerew looks like a young Russell Crowe? Hope they remove the telephone from his hotel room while on the road, and/or he doesn’t order room service.

KJ looks like Toby McGuire without the Spiderman costume. Andruw, without his hat looks like Darius Rucker of Hootie and the Blowfish. Yet, it is Andruw whose spidey tendencies are breaking out on his left elbow. Will the real Spiderman please stand up? Might we have in disguise a superhero who can sing?

Andruw is hopefully breaking out of his slump - last night was a good start. Andruw regularly going the other way with a pitch in a clutch situation, and making a pitcher pay for a mistake for something other than an inside pitch. Now, wouldn’t that be a HOOT??

By Robert

May 9, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Maddux vs Smoltz

Crystal ball says:

Braves win 1-0 in a game that features 10 baserunners total, complete games by both pitchers, and is over in under two hours

I can dream cant I?

More likely that Maddux is gone by the 7th, while Smoltz pitches seven great innings but then gives up the go ahead run in the 8th when Donk leaves him in there after scratching his behind and finding an idea on his fingertip

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 9, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

I do not think you will see Salty traded as long as Bobby Cox is the manager of the Braves. He has long had a reputation for player development. I was surprised the Jermain Dye was traded so long ago.

He just does not let Grade A players go while they are young.

The reason there are so many pitchers are chosen in the draft is because it takes so many to get a good one. Too many moving parts for them to be reliable I guess….

By the time they are ready, often they are with someone besides who picked them. The Braves have a good track record so far with their high draft picks. A tribute to their scouting department.

By 1st and 6

May 9, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Most important games for Braves in a few weeks vs the RED SOX. That will tell the Braves where they stand. We already know we got big chance vs Mets.

By caveman22

May 9, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

finally , Game Time

wish I was at the stadium tonight.

This is definitely what being a braves fan is all about!!

Stike one!!

By Eric from MO

May 9, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

Graham Dawg it is people like you who have ruined baseball. I dont know if Clemons is or isnt takeing HGH but you have absolutely no proof. Spahn won 23 games at 42. Was he taking HGH? Players dont have jobs in the offseason anymore so they can workout constantly. Could that possible be an explanation? I am going to assume you will probably say no. Besides, Clemens only pitches for 4 months and I also think he is going to get rocked in the A.L. but thats just my opinion. If you dont like watching great players why do you watch baseball.

By cityofdecatur

May 9, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

robert it gets old

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

Hey Robert, not in the mood for the tired “Donk” crap tonight, please. It’s childish. Do better, or drop it please.

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 9, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this

Geoff Blum, that power-hitting shortstop has posted Mad-Dog to a lead!! as some would say, oh, the humanity…..

By Big_Al

May 9, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

DOB,

If Bobby leaves after next season like he says he is, do you think that would effect the decision of Chipper or Andruw or any of the players on resigning with the team once their contracts or up?

Andruw’s is up this season obviously. Is Bobby leaving in the back of his mind or does he care?

By bergian

May 9, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

Wow! A standing Ovation for Greg Maddox at the plate! Very Classy!

By ssiscribe

May 9, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Eh, Doggy picked a heck of a time for his first hit of the year. That was a rope off Smoltz, who will never hear the end of it from Maddux.

Nice gesture by the fans to give MadDog a nice hand. Nice by Smoltz to try and blind Maddux with his bald head before the at-bat (Smoltz took off his hat and leaned over, showing Maddux his balding dome).

Didn’t work, though. That was a rip by Maddux.

Smoltz out of the inning. Alright, time to get that run back. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 9, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

I suspect Mad Dog is thrilled more with getting a hit off Smoltz than anything else so far in the game. Hopefully Smoltz will deliver the longball tonight (as Doggie says, “Chicks dig the long-ball!”)

By Robert

May 9, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

DOB - I hope it’s a pitcher’s duel. I hope the Braves win. I hope the game plays itself out and deoesnt require any managerial decision making, and I hope like HELL tonight isnt the night Cox costs the Braves game number 4 this year

No offense, but what you’re in the mood for is no concern of mine

By Robert

May 9, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

If this were 1995, you could file this one in the win column for Maddux

Thems were da days

By JJMB

May 9, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Surely Prado could play some shortstop, couldn’t he? That damn Woodward is stinko.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

Well, damn, Junior is leaving DEI to start up his own race team with JR Motorsports.

By Carolina Lady

May 9, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

“this is still a guy blog. love the girls coming around but dob has demonstrated with this booger post that this blog remains a guy blog.” OK, CL out.

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

Evening denizens,

Nice ovation for Maddux when he stepped in just a moment ago, and I was amused by the reaction of the crowd when Maddux smacked a single.

It’s a shame that regular Braves broadcasts on TBS will be no more after this year. That’s how I got my itch for baseball in general and Braves baseball in particular. To me, this outcome was inevitable as soon as Turner Broadcasting was merged into Time Warner. The other shoe dropped once TW decided to sell the team and Turner left the TW board. There was no way that TW was going to sell all of the Turner properties (including the Braves) so that the synergy between TBS and the Braves could continue.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 9, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

Don’t fret CL—TheJackAss isn’t welcome here either…

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Oh, SJA, you are always welcome. Rile dem boys up.

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Great hustle by Frenchy and great relay throw by KJ to nail Blum trying to stretch a double into a triple.

By brent a.

May 9, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

One other thing about TBS turning into an MLB channel …

We may just find out how much of this Yankees-Red Sox junk is ESPN/Northeast bias, or the plain, bitter truth.

If TBS attempts to show teams like the Braves, Dodgers, and other popular teams, that don’t reside in the Northeast, and has success doing it, it may just open up the eyes of the folks in Bristol. Even moreso, if TBS can market the entire game well, including stars such as Vlad Guerrero, and Miguel Cabrera, that will be a real boon to the sport.

The way I see it, TBS, based in Atlanta, getting an MLB contract, could work wonders for getting the powers that be out of this Yankees-Red Sox rut we have fallen into.

This could be a breath of fresh air.

By serbok

May 9, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

WillyWally~ sorry man~ cant resist!!!!!! thanx for the 5:16 post!!!! 10 Days to GO!!!!! :o)

By BEST LINE OF THE DAY

May 9, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

a tie for best lines of the day.

Rainbow/Push guy “The Braves need to look around Atlanta for talent.”

Braves fan in the west “I though the Yankees had their own network, I mean besides ESPN.”

Both priceless!

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Looks like home plate umpire Jim Wolf isn’t endearing himself to either Smoltz or Maddux tonight.

By JJMB

May 9, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

I miss Maddux screaming ƒuck! 20 times a games. sniff….

By Jared

May 9, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

This team is going to give me a heart attack. Can’t get a fly ball with a runner on third and 1 out but then get a two out hit…..Also, what year was it that we had all of those come from behind wins? Was it 1995?

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Did anyone else see Maddux’s eyes well up a little after the standing ovation? Red and teary-eyed. Maybe he’d like to come back?

Strikeout #6 for Smoltz.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

May 9, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

MLB should work on recruiting blacks when NBA works on recruiting whites. In the meantime kids, play whatever the hell ya wanna play. The best will make it to the pros.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Maddux missed the grounder… and the F-bomb twice!!! HAHAHA!!

By Mets Stink

May 9, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

It’s about time the Braves start swiping some bags!

By caveman22

May 9, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

sja get off the self pity “nobody likes me either” crap. I thought you had Big Balls - kemo-sabe!! Do you need some reinforcement for your ego or what??

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

It’s good to see Andruw hustle on that hit.Maddox isn’t quite as good as in his prime years when he could tickle a gnats a* without leaving a bruise,but it’s the closest I’ve seen in awhile.

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

Way to take a pitch, Francoeur and Thorman.

3 pitches 2 outs. UNREAL.

By Braves20

May 9, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this

New pitcher - two first pitch swings. Brilliant!

By The Grinch

May 9, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

Hate to see Maddux go…he was always my favorite. Of course, now I can feel better about rooting for Smoltz. :-)

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 9:13 PM | Link to this

This is a frustrating game. This team is really struggling right now. They can’t do anything right offensively. Is it that tough Dodger and Padre pitching??? Guess we will find out this weekend when the Braves face two terrible pitchers on Friday and Saturday.

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

I’ll go out on a limb and say this is the inning that Bobby leaves Smoltz in too long.

Runner on third and only 1 out and we don’t score. That has HUGE inning for the Padres written all over it.

By Josh C

May 9, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

Francoeur and Thorman make the new guy throw 3 TOTAL pitches? How you say…STOOPID

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Alright, maybe not. Sounds like Smoltz is on tonight.

What’s that 4 runs on 4 solo HR’s the last two nights scored off the starters? I’ll take that every night.

By Jared

May 9, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Can a Bobby Cox team ever manufacture a run the old fashioned way?

By fastasballs

May 9, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Gotta get those runs in from third with less than 2 out. Frenchy got all excited and swung at the first pitch.

Andruw started loafing out of the box but hustled his big butt down the line once Greg missed the ball. Too bad the rare Andruw stolen base was wasted. I wonder if he was sent or stole it on his own? He still has plenty of speed on the base paths, he may not want to use it but he still can move when he wants to.

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

TAKE A FRICKIN PITCH YOU IMPATIENT IDIOTS.

By Tony Almeida

May 9, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Harris hitting 400 +, but yet had Langerhans not been traded, he would still be out there. Cox is an idiot. He doesn’t do what’s best for the team.

By Mets Stink

May 9, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Another opposite field hit for Andruw. I thought he was a pull hitter. Way to go!

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Can anybody name another pitcher other than Maddux in his prime,who could consistently hit a mark up or down,inside or outside,with great movement and have the ability to vary pace on any pitch ? Andruw has awakened from his slumber…for now.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Another opposite field hit for Andruw? Okay, who traded Andruw for Pujols?

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

OMFG!

Andruw with two “go ahead” RBI singles TO RIGHT FIELD, two nights in a row.

Must’ve just got around late on a fastball. :-)

By beachcomber

May 9, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

Great game - probably the two best pens in the NL. So far advantage Braves.

By Greg in TN

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

Nice, nice, nice rally.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

oh, carolina lady, this journalist was just kidding. just to clary, how many booger blogs can carolina lady remember participating in? carolina lady can talk boogers with dob if carolina lady likes but it is not a good trade to lose carolina lady and have sja re-appear (as sja). still, journalist is ashamed of jimmy smith’s earlier remarks. an earthy blog is for everyone.

By fastasballs

May 9, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

What an inning!

By Tony Almeida

May 9, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Andruw was told to steal, McCann was backing out of the batters box right after the ball left the hand of Maddux.

By JJMB

May 9, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Grinch, Maddux was my second favorite. Smoltz has been my first. Love the power pitcher. His only fault is he doesn’t cuss.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

May 9, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

I sure hope Krystal turns a profit. They must only spend $25 for their commercials.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

We may just find out how much of this Yankees-Red Sox junk is ESPN/Northeast bias, or the plain, bitter truth.

The Yankees and the Red Sox combined to sell over 40% of all merchandise in the U.S. for MLB. Their games set records and get ratings for the networks that air their games. Their games are sold out. Their playoff games are sold out. When they fail, they up their budget to try to win. When fans stop showing up for games, they go out and get sexy stars to fill their seats. They diversify their talent base and get black stars and white stars and asian stars and latino stars to appeal to as much of the fan base as possible.

The Braves are just really a boring story on the broad national scope. Believe me, the national media never shut the hell up about the Braves in the early 1990s because they had the mega superstars and flashy youngsters then. The whole country hated the BRaves (but cared about the Braves then because the national media would not stop shoving them down everyone’s throats).

The Braves just don’t move merchandise the way the Yanks and Bosox do. Their games don’t get the same television ratings. When you don’t show up for playoff games (both the team and the fans since the turn of the century), network execs presume you don’t care.

When star after star after star after star leaves your team for cheapskate reasons and y’all barely utter a nasty word about it and correctly direct your ire at the cheapskate owners, they presume you don’t care enough to put the game on television for you. When a star future HOFer like Andruw is set to leave the team and no fan, no fan expresses any outrage at all and just merely accepts that he is going to leave without ranting and raving at the freaking cheapskate owners that label your team the Discontinued Operations and Non Core Assets, people in the national media game are going to presume you don’t care. If you all expressed outrage instead of swallowing the company propaganda, then maybe people would air your games and talk about your teams. But when your owners screw you as a fan over and over and over again, and the great majority of you don’t utter a god damn word about it, the national media presumes you don’t care.

When critical moments in games arise, and you guys are not standing on your feet, people presume you don’t care. When the Tomahawk Chop has become a half-hearted effort out of fans instead of the the crazed frenzy that was so intimidating to everyone looking in on us in the early 1990s, people presume you don’t care.

We are sitting here watching the Greatest Pitcher in the History of the Braves, one of the top 5 pitchers of all time, pitch for another team, and no one here is upset about that. No one has mentioned it yet today. It’s like you are watching your brother screw your mother and it does not offend you. Glavine, one of the top 5 pitchers in the history of the franchise, pitches for a division rival and you all blame him and not the cheapskate owners for his departure and his failure to come back this winter. GOOD FANS would have been screaming at and about the cheapskate owners not supporting your team in order to get a great pitcher back who is set to win his 300th game for your darn rival.

AND you wonder why ESPN is not airing the game today? They presume you don’t care because you show them you don’t care. You face Maddux and Glavine and no one says dammit, I wish we still had him. You are sitting here watching your former All Star second baseman play for another team who just left the team, and you all don’t seem to care. You played this weekend against a team with your former great utility player who hit two pinch hit home runs against you, and no one stopped to say what the F@#@!, why did we let Betemit go for a crappy reliever and a selfish drug addict? Over an extra $250,000 or so he might have gotten in arbitration? Aybar who you got in the deal goes AWOL, and no one cares. No one throws a tantrum about it.

You lose playoff game after playoff game after playoff game and no one goes berserk that what is the problem? Is it not good enough personnel or is it bad managing of the personnel? No one screams for the head of either the GM or the manager. People presume you don’t care.

Until you all start showing the same psychotic passion that you all do for UGA, the national media will not show your games until they have to because they presume you don’t care because you show you don’t care.

As for TBS, they have already made the decision. TBS was specifically built by Ted Turner on the back of the Braves as the featured attraction to bring people to his new channel. But now they have determined that they no longer need the Braves. They have determined that the Braves do not draw enough people in to the games. They have determined that they can get better ratings by showing other team’s games. Don’t wait for TBS to show you whether it is a Yankee & BoSox bias. TBS would be nuts not to show as many Yankee and Bosox games that they can in order to get ratings. They are not in business to lose money showing the Braves or any other team to the national market. If you own stock in them, you would not appreciate it either. They sure as hell are not going to be showing that many Braves games because they have already made the determination that airing Braves games loses money for them nationally.

WHY THE HELL WOULD ESPN EVER SHOW ANOTHER BRAVES GAME WHEN YOUR FREAKING PIECE OF CRAP OWNERS CALL YOUR BELOVED TEAM THE DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AND NON-CORE ASSETS AND NO ONE SCREAMS BLOODY MURDER ABOUT IT, ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY HAVE BEEN CUTTING YOUR BUDGET AND TREATING YOUR TEAM LIKE NOTHING MORE THAN A DARN TAX BREAK? AND STILL NO ONE SAYS A FREAKING WORD ABOUT? THE TEAM TELLS YOU WE CAN ONLY AFFORD $80 MIL WHEN EVERY OTHER TEAM IS INCREASING PAYROLL AND YOU ALL SAY A-OKAY, OKIE DOKEY, I’M A DOPEY! WHY?!?!?! YOU SHOW YOU DON’T CARE ENOUGH, THEY PRESUME YOU DON’T CARE ENOUGH TO EVEN SHOW YOUR TEAM TO A NATIONAL MARKET!

You show bloody outrage about stupid retards like Jesse Jackson who have no effect on what happens with your team, but barely utter a peep when your owners systematically remove any chance of your team winning the ultimate prize that the whole country mocks you for not winning enough.

You have a HOF third baseman who has not made an All Star team since 2001. How can that happen? Because y’all don’t care enough to vote for Chipper. Inexcusable. Yet again, you all show the country you don’t care but then cry that ESPN is supposed to make the rest of the country care about your team when you don’t even show them you give a darn enough to vote your HOF third sacker to the All Star game for six freaking years?

It’s time to look in the mirror Braves fans.

It ain’t a conspiracy. It’s called apathy!

With that being said, most of the bloggers on here are great passionate fans and maybe that is why most of you can’t understand the lack of ESPN and national spotlight on the Braves, because you are so passionate, you get blinded to the lack of passion from the great majority of the apathetic Atlanta Braves fan base.

By Tony Almeida

May 9, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Willy…here’s an idea…lets leave the column writing to DOB.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t agree with BC having Gonzo pitch the eighth,he’s the proven closer.

By Tony Almeida

May 9, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Sorry DOB, but I have to disagree with you, 24 is the best show on television. It’s been pretty lame this year, but just watch the season finale….word is I’m coming back from the dead….all will be one with the world…until then…

By Me

May 9, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Based on the length of the previous, Willy Wally needs a life.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

oh, the humanity!

By Braves20

May 9, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

Willy Wicky or whatever. Your village (somehwere near New York) called. You know the rest. It’s a Braves blog - the 20-12 Braves not the under .500 Yankees blog. Get lost.

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

I hate to point this out to everybody, but continuing with my theory from last night, the Braves WERE losing this game until I started complaining.

Looks like we might be 21-12 in games that I complain about something.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally Man that don’t seem like you.That’s some long winded and somewhat strange stuff.It looks more like a SJA or Robert post.

By TDub

May 9, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Here’s a hug, Willy Wally. Now go to sleep. There you go.

By NEW BEST LINE OF THE DAY

May 9, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Skip Caray - “Thorman didn’t know what happened.” Fear we might hear that one often this year.

By JJMB

May 9, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

Love the passion. Hate the long-windedness. Again, I ask for word limits on posts. It’s common courtesy, and easily done.

By Jared

May 9, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

LAst time I checked we have no control over who owns our team. That story was killed a long time ago. Every body on this board wishes Ted Turner was still the owner but we can’t change it. And as far as the Yankees and Red Sox go they are pathetic. Payrolls bordering 200 million and they still can’t win it all.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Dude, write a freakin’ novel why don’t ya?

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

Why use Soriano to close when Gonzo is 29 for 29 with a 1.4 era ?

By AMG

May 9, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Just got home from the hospital. Fell over and hit my head last night when Andruw hit the ball to right field. Did he do it again tonight or am I experiencing post concussion syndrome?

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Strike one. Strike TWO. STRIKE THREE! Braves win!

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

Your Atlanta Braves are pretty damn good, folks.

And don’t let Andruw tell you he’s not “right-field-ball hitter.” Seems like he’s pretty good at it when he tries.

By Josh C

May 9, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

Just so everyone knows I think the Gonzalez and Soriano trades were good moves.

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

That’s a ballclub!!!!!! Whoo!!!!!!!!

By beachcomber

May 9, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Sports Weekly had a masterpiece of understatement in their rankings last week. “Funny what an effective bullpen can do for a team.”

By fastasballs

May 9, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Nice win, Hudson of the mound tomorrow. Good chance to take 3 of 4.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

The Magic Number is now 130!

I will now go back to practicing the finer points of brevity.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

N8 Bend a spoon or something…pleassssse!!!!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

can’t decide who this journalist likes best - gonzales or soriano, guess it is whichever one of them is pitching. whoa! this is a lot better than remlinger and reitsma. kolb, anyone? and how about willie harris! willie is a player. oh, the humanity, that was a good game!

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Another comeback win, folks. Nice…

Nate, you need to start complaining earlier tomorrow night. lol

Willy Wally, New York is the number one media market not only in the country, but also in the world. Boston is 7th. Atlanta is gaining, but are 9th according to Nielsen. That has more to do with it than anything. All ESPN, ABC, NBC, CBS, et al care about is ratings and advertising revenue, period. However I will put you down as not a big fan of TW.

By JJMB

May 9, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Smoltz gets bragging rights! WO-Hoo!

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

It would be nice to get runs early, but this was a big win and a devastating second loss in a row for the Padres.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Cox is using Soriano for mostly righty batters in the ninth and Gonzo for mostly lefty batters in the ninth.

By flange1

May 9, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

Willy - WHAT? Take a valium and chill.

Nate - You are right again, you have permission to moan at any point in the game from now on.

Guys and CL, I really like this team. If we can get our starting pitching squared away, these guys will score runs and the bullpen is top notch. Gonzo and the Assassin looked awesome tonight….

By N8

May 9, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Alex Trebek: And now for today’s FINAL JEOPARDY answer.

“This was a 15 paragraph, multiple thousand word story that changed the minds of many world wide.”

Shaun:

“What is……The combined OPS of the Barry Bonds, Rafael Palmeiro, Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire, when they were ALL on THE CREAM?”

Trebek

No. Nice try. How much did you wager? Ooooh. $2400.00 leaving you with $200.00

On to our second contestant, Robert.

Robert:

What is “The Donkey in the Dugout?”

Trebek:

No. That is also incorrect. How much did you wager? Interesting, Robert wagered $Hee Haw.00

Moving along. Our 3rd contestant and leader, Coach, just needs to get the correct anwwer and will be guaranteed victory. Let’s see what he gave for an answer….er….I mean question.

Coach

“Who is Horacio Ramirez?”

Trebek:

What the hell are you talking about?

Coach:

I thought the answer was: “I was the greatest WINNER of a pitcher Atlanta has ever seen.

Trebek:

Uh. No.

The correct response, should’ve been: Willy Wally’s senior TERM PAPER, titled: “How I can change the minds of a million fans that don’t care what I type, they’ll STILL think that ESPN, and Dayn Perry are out to get them”

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

I like Willy Harris, good guy !

By Mike

May 9, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

Just wanted to say thanks for a great blog DOB. By the way, I’ve seen another ‘Mike’ on here regularly, do I need to change my Braves/Man in Black blog?

By Josh C

May 9, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Yeah I’d say they’re good. Do you folks realize that we are 21-8 in games that Redman hasn’t pitched? That’s a 110 win pace. This division is starting to look like the ‘92 season where the Giants had the second best record in baseball but missed the postseason. At least if it happens that way again both the Mets and Braves will be in the postseason. Can you think of anyone else you’d rather smoke in the NLCS?

By fastasballs

May 9, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Gonzo was used in the 8th because of the left handed bats due up. If anyone reached, Gozalez (Pads) would have been up.

Soriano has been lights out. His ERA would be lower than Gonzos if you threw out some meaningless runs he gave up. When it counts I don’t Soriano has given up jack.

Who cares who closes? They both get the job done. Who else is baseball has a left & right handed closer that is as nasty as these two?

By beachcomber

May 9, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Just a question for those of you who track these things closer than I. What’s our record since we brought Willie C. Harris up?

By Big_Al

May 9, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally, thanks for the novel. I think Oprah is going to endorse that post in her book club.

it’s simple…

ESPN broadcasts more yankee and/or red sox games because they are flashy, historic franchises. They have the largest fan base which equals a large amount of ratings. Plus ESPN likes the AL style of play. More homers and runs scored that they can show highlights of. Not much you can say about a video highlight of a sac bunt, moving runners over, etc. stuff that happens more in the NL or as I like to call it, real baseball.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Mike I know why BC uses Soriano and Gonzo the way he does.I’m just a traditionalist when it comes to closing.One team one closer,it’s hard to argue with good results though.

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 10:01 PM | Link to this

So we’re guaranteed 6 -4 homestand a win tomorrow and its 7-3. YOu’ve got to like either, but 7-3…mmmmmmm!

By Mike

May 9, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

I meant blog name in post 9:56.

By Me

May 9, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Send Money: Soriano and Gonzalez pitch the 8th and 9th based in the order in which inning has more lefties and righties.

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Nate, very funny post…

beachcomber, Willie’s first appearance was on 4/30. Since that time, we’re 5-3.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

N8, LOL!

By bergian

May 9, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

more of the maddox, smoltz interview right now on fox south

By N8

May 9, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

beachcomber

I believe we traded him after the Sunday game in Colorado, but I could be wrong. Which would put us at 6-3. Or pretty much the pace we’ve been on all year, which is winning series, and essentially 2 out of 3 games.

While it seems like he’s made a difference (10 hits in 24 AB) as opposed to Langerhans’ 3 hits in 50some AB’s, the RESULTS of the team haven’t improved drastically.

By Mike

May 9, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

N8, much more readable mini-novel!

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Baseball Tonight led off with Braves. Only because of the Smoltz Maddux matchup.

By Josh C

May 9, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

Send Money you ain’t a traditionalist dude. If you were you’d think pitchers are molly-coddled these days. Traditionalists believe that starters should finish games.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

Oprah, in fact, did call to publish my memoirs. When she realized that I was on the brink of insanity and prone to making things up, she decided not to showcase my book. So, you all should be thankful. I will no longer direct my ire at Braves Nation. I will now channel my anger by ranting incessantly ranting at Oprah now. All you married husbands would probably appreciate that.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 9, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally Actually, a very good post…. The truth hurts sometimes but you are largely correct on your take on Yankees and Red Soxs.

Great game again tonight… Way to go Willie C. Harris. This year’s Chuckie Thomas.

Man, having two power arms out of the bullpen. What a luxury. Great job by JS to get both those guys in the off season.

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

When JS traded LaRoche for Gonzo I’ve got to admit I thought it was a really bad deal. I’ll make sure not to bring up that fact if I”m ever interviewing for a GM job.

How great is it to have this pen!

By journalist jimmy smith

May 9, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

langerhans is now hitting .088 and harris is hitting .417. that is a big swing in the fortunes of this team. this club would sure miss renteria if renteria was away for a time. everyone is playing well. and look at all the good young players in the minors! this team will be good for awhile. and what is the word on the mark’s toe surgery? successful? will we see those toes toeing the rubber again at the ted?

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Oops, sorry beachcomber, Nate is right, 6-3 since his first appearance on 4/30.

By Josh C

May 9, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

Damn DOB this Katie Temple on FSN is awfully cute and appears lonely. Why don’t you call her up so the rest of us can live vicariously? Details, of course, are a must…

By Braveone

May 9, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Deja Vu Win! Didn’t we see this game yesterday? Starting pitcher gives up 2 solo home runs & leaves trailing 2-1. Braves score 2 runs to take 3-2 lead with help of opposite-field RBI single by A Jones. Gonzalez & Soriano pitch shut-out innings to preserve the 3-2 victory. Amazing how similar these last 2 games have been!!

By The Grinch

May 9, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

I wish they’d show Maddux and Smoltz about 1 a.m. at a bar tonight/tommorrow after a few pitchers(pardon the pun). JJMB, I know I’m in the minority, and I love Smoltz too, but I don’t care. Maddux was the man, and he did it with half Smoltz’ stuff. I wonder how long John will be hearing about that base hit tonight?

Anyone else get the feeling that when we’re up by one after the 6th that it’s a done deal? VERY, VERY different feeling. Hoody-hoo.

By N8

May 9, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally

I did forget to put in my Jeopardy post, that for the most part I agree with you. Especially about Chipper not getting votes to the all-star game.

Of course, I’ve been just as critical of Chipper as any, but it was NEVER about his ability, just his ability to stay healthy. Which could explain why some fans wouldn’t be voting for him, with the injuries.

But I agree with you, MANY other injured players (or players NOT having good years) are often voted in by the homers that pretty much put a check mark next to the player that is on their favorite team. Especially kids.

So it’s a little puzzling.

Just having a little fun with you.

I was intending to have the first line of the “question” be:

“The correct response, should’ve been: Willy Wally’s senior TERM PAPER, that N8 happens to agree with, titled:”

Nice job. Makes some of my “epics” look like nothing. :-)

By Mets Fans

May 9, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

DOMINATION IS ON ITS WAY.

Tick. Tick. Tick.

If you’re not 10 down by June 15th, I’ll shave MY head.

Look at the schedule Necks. You know its coming. And as my man Chop Chop pointed out the other day, we end with a big run of Nats and Marlins.

Tick. Tick. Tick.

By Eric from MO

May 9, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Okay let see if I can count right. Andruw has had two game winning hit the last 2 nights plus the walk-off homerun against the Phillies last week. So thats 3 game winning hits in the 10 days. Pretty good for some bum who doesnt put up any meaningful hits or RBIs. For all of you Andruw haters I think you owe Andruw and us Andruw supporters some DAP!

Tony Almieda Harris is a career .240 hitter so he is not this good. Just wait for his 1-30 slump and you will see the real Willie Harris. Also the GM makes the roster moves not the Manager. Just so you know Bobby Cox is the manager.

Willy Wally I didnt read your whole rant because I really didnt care much about. However I saw part where you said no one cares because the Braves always lost playoff games. Didnt the Red Sox go 86 years between World Championships. Also didnt the Yankees have the biggest choke in Baseball history. Just wanted to throw this out there.

By N8

May 9, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Gil

“Man, having two power arms out of the bullpen. What a luxury. Great job by JS to get both those guys in the off season.”

Totally agree, 100 percent. In fact, I’m not so sure that I don’t feel safer in the 8th and 9th with these two than with Wickman pitching the 9th. Not that I don’t trust Wickman, but I personally LOVE having strikeout guys in the 8th and 9th inning roles.

I’ll put it this way, who would ALL OF YOU feel more comfortable with in their “prime”? Mark Wohlers or Greg McMichael? Exactly.

Strange how things change from August of one year to May of the next, isn’t it?

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this

DOB - didn’t hear what’s up with Edgar…did he just soldier through last night?

By N8

May 9, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this

Mets Fans

It appears as though you have 3 ticks. Try a match, that’s about the only way to get em’ off.

Or were you just trying your hardest to do your Max Headroom impersonation?

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Grinch When you say Maddux had half Smoltz stuff,as far as velocity that’s true.If you look at Maddux’s control,movement,etc though, his stuff was outstanding.

By Big_Al

May 9, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Ok Met’s fan, you keep searching for player quotes while I figure out which of the two series the Braves beat you in this year I enjoyed the most. I think I have to go with the one in New York. Which one was your favorite?

By serbok

May 9, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

N8~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 9:55 post was AWESOME~ I’m still laughing!!!!lmao~ WillyWally~ I tend to agree~

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Big game tomorrow!!! Wells has been just as bad as Redman. 7-3 homestand would be amazing. I did say before this 10 game stretch that I would take 6-4. But Hudson versus Wells. I like our chances tomorrow. I figure McCann will get a rest tomorrow.

2B Johnson SS Renteria 3B Chipper CF Jones RF Francouer LF Diaz C Saltalamacchia 1B Wilson SP Hudson

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

I say this having grown up on Braves ball…as a little kid with posters of the Hammer in my room…my dad woke me up early the morning Hank broke the record…with all of that (and I didn’t read all of Willy Wally’s post either) but it’s sad that Cubs and Mets fans outshout us at the Ted or we don’t sell out play-off games. I know all the reasons. And I remember the electricity of ‘91 (anyone remember that billboard on 75 that read “Atlanta will never be a baseball town” with a huge tomahawk splintering it?) But he’s got a point about the fan base…we’re not one of the most adamant, at least in numbers, vocality, and appearance.

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Yup, a big run of Nats and Marlins. That’d be the same Marlin team that took 2 of 3 from you guys in NYC.

Hmmmm

By caveman22

May 9, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

mets fans Are you posting under a different name? You sound a lot like a another idio-yorker fan we used to treat like a disposable diaper. Lots of crap and then a big flush. I hope your noticing the lack of attention being paid to your writings.

By The Grinch

May 9, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Josh C, I watched Katie Temple the other night from about 15 feet away interviewing Chipper and Willie C,; she’s cute (and has a big ol’ juicy butt) but the section we were in was so full of hotties it was hard to pay attention. Katie’s got that Suzy Kolber kind of “I’m not sure why I’m attracted to this chick but I am anyway” kind of thing goin’ on. Good win tonight; this team has something serious goin’ on this year.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

Tick. Tick. Tick. Father Time says it is about time for Glavine to be done.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Father Time says it is about time for El Duque to be done.

Tick. Tick. Tick. The Grim Reaper says he is about to breach the contract he signed with Oliver Perez.

Tick. Tick. Tick. John Maine is not a 1.79 ERA pitcher.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Pelfrey sucks!

Tick. Tick. Tick. Chan Ho. ‘Nuff said.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Jorge Sosa. ‘Nuff said.

Tick. Tick. Tick. There goes Billy Wagner blowing yet another big game.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Is the sound of Father Time saying Delgado is about done.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Father Time says Moises Alou could not stay healthy when he was a young pup, and he can’t stay healthy as an old man for an entire season.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Pop goes the hamstring of Jose Reyes.

Tick. Tick. Tick. You just remembered you don’t have a second baseman.

Tick. Tick. Tick. You finally just realized your catcher is not any good.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Edgardo Alfonzo has taken over the body of David Wright and he has mysteriously lost all his power.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Is the sound of the grand jury testimony of the Met’s staffer outing all the Mets players as steroid users.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Is the sound of another Mets minor leaguer failing a steroid test.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Is the sound of another snap, crackle, pop in the fragile arm of Pedro this summer.

Tick. Tick. Tick. And a big bop on the forehead as Shawn Green flubs another flyball and has it bop him in the head.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Why does Carlos Beltran play so deep and let single after single after single drop in front of him?

Tick. Tick. Tick. Is the time bomb that is the personality of Lastings Milledge.

Tick. Tick. Tick. Another questionable decision by the overmatched Willie Randolph.

Tick. Tick. Tick. It is past 2 a.m. and Omar Minaya has the munchies, so he says Yo Quiero Taco Bell!

By serbok

May 9, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

N8~ I always thought your handle was short for innate? am I incorrect?

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 9, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

Actually, reason for improved record might be more closely related to the fact the Braves are facing right handers rather than lefties.

Still, I like the energy Willie C. brings to the team. Having an actual base stealing threat who can get on base does add to the team.

Much has been made by the TV commentators about the Braves lack of offense during the current home stand, I think it is largely due to the very good pitching the Braves have seen from the Dodgers and San Diego.

By Josh C

May 9, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Hey Mets Fans have you learned to speak fluent Spanish so you can ask your favorite Mets for an autograph? Seems that your p**-ant team had such a hard time generating interest in the biggest media market anywhere that they’ve had to pander to the Hispanic community. At least there’s Jose Jose Jose…que paso mi amigo?

By Greg in TN

May 9, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

Well said Willy Wally! lol

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 9, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

caveman22—you haven’t made one single intelligent comment since your arrival on this blog…maybe you had better look out for your own deficiencies before attempting to find them in others…you’ve never been welcome here either…you’re just too dense to know it…

jjs—I guess you’re incapable of making your cute, little comments without including a few condescending snipes aimed at me…so don’t act so shocked when it all flies back in your face…

Bob, journalist—baiting you?…Pointless!…

…and those are the last comments I will ever make to directly anyone…

By N8

May 9, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Serbok

Thanx for appreciating the humor.

As far as my “handle”. My name is Nathan. But I like the way you think.

I suppose both could apply. LOL!

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

ernesto I lived in Colorado in the 90s when the Broncos won two superbowls.If a kid didn’t have a Broncs jacket they were considered geeks.When it came to high school and college ball however few cared.Atlanta and the south is a great sports area,it’s just more grass roots than in NY or Boston and that ain’t all bad.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

MOEric, the point was that when the Yankees or Red Sox lose, the fan base goes berserk and demands more from management and ownership. It does not always work out for the best for their teams but the frenzy that the fan base creates makes the media and many fans across the country take notice. When the Braves disappoint yet again, most Braves fans (not the bloggers on here) act as if cool, oh well, at least nothing will interfere with focusing my undivided attention on the Cocktail Party at the end of October. But God forbid if UGA lose yet again to the Gaytors, you will hear a ferocity out of Georgians that puts the Yankees and Red Sox fans to shame.

Going to leave it alone now. Let the glorified term paper speak for itself. The blog has spoken. Y’all don’t want to hear it.

By BabyGoatEater

May 9, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Great game tonight. Sorry just didn’t feel like blogging tonight while game was on.(Must be I’m a apathetic Braves fan like the rest of us: for you Willy)

Like I said earlier, I was rooting for Maddux a bit (My favorite player of all time). I think things work a bit different in Braves town than Willy thinks. I can see where he’s coming from though.

I think the Braves know they can’t spend $190,000,000 a year. I think they know it’s impossible for them to pay 11 players over $10,000,000 a year. I have to say John Shuerholtz has done a pretty good job letting the right players walk. Yeah Maddux is still good. Yaeh Glavine is still good. At the time we had a choice between two general thought of soft-tossers and a power arm. John kept the power arm thinking that usually the power arm tends to have a longer career. I don’t disagree. (our worst year has been 3rd place since those decisions). He’s always let hitters walk. He signed Chipper long term (good decision). He signed Andruw long term (good decision). He’s starting to lock up the future (McCann) There was one departure I wish we would have kept. His name was Ted. John did all he could I bet. Sometimes you just lose out. Now were stuck as part of a corporation. Just another number on their stock report. What you gonna do? I think we’re doing pretty good for a team with a average payroll and up for sale. The fans come out. As bad as you make it seem, the Braves do sell out stadiums other than their home field. They have a massive fan base nation wide. Yeah we’re not rood and obnoxious like those guys from NY or Boston. Players like to play here though, must have something right. Just cause guys get $$$$ signs in their eyes and ask for more money than they’re worth, and we decide “not best for team” and let them go, you get your panties all in a wad. I’ll let John do my payroll thinkin for me, and just a suggestion, you should too.

Oh and again, this is the second time someone on here has questioned my passion for the Braves. I think you’d be hard pressed to find a more passionate fan than me. I bet there are quite a few other guys on this blog that are passionate fans as well (you included probably wally). I know you didn’t exactly mean the blog when you said that but still, we love our Braves. You know it. I know it. There’s just certain things no matter how much you yell, It’s not gonna change a thing.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally If Boston fans go berserk every time the team disapoints,there must be a lot of crazy bastards up there by now.

By serbok

May 9, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Grinch~~ Big Ole juicy Butt???? Dude~ I dunno~ ~ wow~ hm I havent had the pleasure to see her~ dont know who she is~ Butt~ Big Ole juicy Butt?????? LMAO

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Mets Fans said I LIKE WILLIES

SJA and Bob, Journalist, would you say that is what you call baiting an idiot to say something he does not really want to say?

By BabyGoatEater

May 9, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

Wally didn’t see your 10:46 post until after, I get your point but needed to rant.

Mets fan……Eat it. Just cause you know deep in your soul that the Mets, no matter how good they are, WILL CHOKE. You guys are right next to the Cubs in the encyclopedia for CHOKING. Please stop letting you insecurities show through. As usual loud mouth NY’ers think they know all. And once again loud mouth NY’ers can’t see their head for there a$$. Wish you guys would learn but that seems to be another thing your slow on.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 9, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Mayunn!!!!! Two games, two comeback wins in the 7th, two games of lights out bully bullies. Said this before here… this is the BEST bullpen we have ever had. Looking forward to Beefy Bob coming back - no doubt, Soriano and Gonzo look awesome now - but, we still the big man for long haul. Trade talk? Trade Beer(gut) Bob? Never, ever, never. Gotta keep this pen together.

DOB wrote, during spring training, of his first encounter with Soriano. Said the guy is all business, never smiles, and is flat nasty. He was right. Ever seen this guy smile after a good inning or closing a game out? Nope - just points to the sky, hugs his catcher, and goes through the “high five” line - Mr. Nasty, and Mr. Lights Out, lately.

From my 7:09 p.m. tonight:

Andruw is hopefully breaking out of his slump - last night was a good start. Andruw regularly going the other way with a pitch in a clutch situation, and making a pitcher pay for a mistake for something other than an inside pitch. Now, wouldn’t that be a HOOT??

Again, Druw makes TP, and the Braves Nation happy with his decision to stop listening to BorA$$ about swinging for the fences, and makes a pitcher pay for a mistake outside. Not the long ball, but drives in the winning run, again. Druw is playing team ball. That is a very, very good thing. Let’s hope he keeps it up.

I still think KJ is Toby McGuire, and Druw is Hootie. After these last two games, life as a Braves fan is a Hoot. Somebody bring a broom tomorrow for the day game, please.

By Willy Wally

May 9, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this

Mets Fan said Braves fans don’t show up for playoff games for one reason it’s boring to sit through a movie when you know how it’s going to end

No. Most of us are just not stupid enough to show up at a movie called NLCS Game 7 featuring Oliver Perez as the lead actor and watch our team lose to an 83 win team while watching our $100 million dollar baby Beltran strike out LOOKING with the bases loaded in the ninth inning of Game freaking 7 of the NLCS.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 9, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

I can remember when there were fewer than 5000 fans at Atlanta games every game and sometimes fewer than that. I doubt Atlanta will ever be the “baseball” town that Boston, Chicago or St Louis are but New York is not all that when you consider the number of people they have to draw from.

Mets fans only come out every 10 to 15 years or so. Tough being the second banana in New York to the Yankees. Now that I think about it, Baltimore is a better baseball town than New York.

By gotigers72

May 9, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Looks like JS got away with some serious thievery when he traded HoRam [7.64 ERA] for Soriano. Also another good move trading Langerhans [.094] and bringing up Willie Harris [.417]. Oh, and I forgot about LaRoche and a minor leaguer for Gonzalez and Lillibridge. A good year so far for JS.

Don’t know if it’s true or not, but I heard that the NAAJP {National Association for the Advancement of Japanese players] and the NAAKP [National Association for the Advancement of Korean Players] are wanting to talk to JS because the Braves have no Asians on their team. Could just be a rumor, I don’t know.

No matter what happens tomorrow, the Braves have only lost 1 series this year, and that was because of the meltdown game against the Marlins. As DOB said earlier, pretty good team we have here.

And for Mutts fan, 4-2 Braves. Don’t brag until you have beaten us more than we’ve beaten you, or until you have the division won, which ain’t gonna happen this year.

By The Grinch

May 9, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

Send Money, I meant in variety of pitches, sweeping grace of movement, and variance between highest and lowest velocity…pure stuff. Maddux has no rival in control, except perhaps Ron Jeremy in his prime. Accuracy? Once again, fuggeddubouddit. Maddux was so freakin’ good in his prime I remember thinking to myself at the time, “This isn’t really happening; there will be some point in my life where I look back at this and tip my cap.” I don’t give a crap HOW you slice it, Maddux was/is one of the 10 best pitchers of all time and one of the two best of the last 25 years (Rocket…and nobody accuses Greg of steroids so that’s up for debate as well). All hail Maddux.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Gil little known fact,the Skankees only drew just over a million fans in 62 with Marrist and Mantle dueling for the home run title.That’s with the Gaints and Dodgers out west and 30 million people between Boston and Philly.

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

Gil, I remember in 1990 buying, was it $5 tickets for nosebleed seats and then moving down to field level b/c there was no one there. odibe mcdowell, anyone?

By BabyGoatEater

May 9, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

Willy I have to apologize for the personal attack. Didn’t mean for it come off that bad. I see your point and feal your outrage just disagree. Iv’e seen your other posts over time and I know your a Braves fan. I should save my attacks for Muts fans who should go back to the sewer they were born in.

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Damn, Grinch, I wish I’d thought of this line, and wish I could actually use it: “Maddux has no rival in control, except perhaps Ron Jeremy in his prime.”

You’ve got a future in blogging, my friend.

Oh, wait, that’s what you’re doing. Nevermind.

By BabyGoatEater

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

Night all, kinda glad I didn’t blog tonight….o well

By serbok

May 9, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Good post BGE~

By David O'Brien

May 9, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

Ernesto, yes on Renteria soldiering through last night. Did you see him about to pass out at third after that triple? The dude played sick last night, and had two huge extra-base hits.

I’d imagine he’ll be back in there tomorrow, although they probably don’t need him to beat over-the-hill Boomer with Hudson pitching. But we’ll see. These things that appear so obvious are usually the games that blow up in your face. But I just can’t see them losing tomorrow (I know, now I’ve cursed the Braves)

By 3Pitch

May 9, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

The Braves do not need Bob Wickman. He pitches to contact, but Soriano and Gonzalez do not, and they are shutdown pitchers. The Braves do need another LH in the bullpen who can get LH batters out. Also, they could use another quality CF candidate for next season. (What if Blanco is handed the job and fails?) Ideas: Jacoby Ellsbury - Red Sox, Reggie Willits -Angels….both are speed type CFs.

And btw, what is Kevin Barry still doing on this team? Are they trying to trade him.?

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

Grinch As for Ron Jeremy,you know what they say, it’s more the movement than the stuff,but who really buys that ?

By Mets Fans

May 9, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

Enjoy second place (until the Phillies take that away from you - LOL!!!!!!!!!)) See y a losers

By serbok

May 9, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

Grinch~~~~~~~~ Ron Jeremy in his prime?? Classic! LOL

By ernesto

May 9, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

Hey Mets Fan…no one’s taking the bait. Run along now.

By The Grinch

May 9, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Domo Arigato, DOB (sentiment inspired by a frosty cold Sapporo). Keep in mind while I have more of a loose tether, your paycheck is noticeably bigger than mine. It all evens out to some degree. :-)

Serbok, Katie temple is the sideline reporter for FSN, the one who interviewed Willie C. after tonight’s game wearing a black sleveless sweater that showed off her mammaraciticeces. My interest is purely professional.

Scalp ‘em, you’re a day late and a buck and a quarter short as usual; we can’t sweep ‘em since we lost the first game already. IT’S A 4 GAME SERIES; DON’T ACT LIKE YOU HAVE A JOB THAT PREVENTS YOU FROM KNOWING SUCH THINGS. Alabamhole. Hey, I like that; just made it up. :-)

BabyGoatEater, don’t give up hope, man.

I will now watch something on TV for a while so I don’t get accused of posting too often in a short period as if I have no life like N8…luv ya, bro.

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

DOB,

I agree, I can’t see them losing at all. And you know me, Im as negative a Braves fan there is on this Blog. Wells has been TERRIBLE. The Padres have scored runs the last two games on solo homers. Hudson should shut him down. But thats why they play the game!!!!

By jwshults

May 9, 2007 11:34 PM | Link to this

As started reading Willy Wally’s post - got about 1/3 of the way through and stopped.

I guess he can “presume I don’t care.”

By The Grinch

May 9, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Send money, I HAVE to buy it or I lose confidence. Now I’m really taking a break.

By serbok

May 9, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

You guys ARE trippin me out 2night!!!!! I’ll see you All on the Dark Side of The Moon~ come Saturday~ may 19:o) Excellent Blogs from everyone!

Mets Fan~ I did have one thing I wanted to say to you~ um Oh Yeah~ Mets suck~ What is their payroll? Sorry you will have to watch a re-run again~this year~ 15 out of 16 years~ Well maybe the Muts will get the wild card~ maybe? Dont count on it tho~ :o)

By Efrim

May 9, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

3Pitch,

Ellsbury will be starting for the Red Sox next year. Crisp will be available. Cameron 2 years 18 million. Sad that we have to pay that much. Who knows, we will probably have to pay more. Other candidates for Center next year:

Rowand Byrnes Kotsay

By Chop Chop

May 9, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

Mets Fans, No Chop is your man. I hope it’s not one of those Pettitte/Rocket deals. I’m sure you’re a big Yankee fan and can appreciate that.

Good pitching performances tonight from Doggie and Smoltzie. Nice to see the fans give Doggie his due. Unlike Glavine, there’s no lingering animus involved in his departure and everyone in the stands who applauded him showed that Atlanta can indeed, from time to time, be a great baseball town.

By Cleanuphitter16

May 9, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

Tim Hudson. You have anyone on your staff that good this year Mets fan? And it’s “You’re playing a day game” Not “YOur.” Why am I even arguing….the guy is clearly 15 years old, give or take a year.

By choppinmama

May 9, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

ernesto: the announcers said that Renteria was fighting his stomach tonight - didn’t have enough energy left to fight Maddux too.

Interesting that Maddux took himself out tonight - what’s the average number of innings he’s pitched so far this season?

Although the shot was shown, the announcers never commented on the “look what I did” face Smoltz showed to Greg from the dugout after he bunted successfuly to get the runner over. Not quite as flashy as Greg’s first hit of the season, but twice as valuable.

Lastly - Jeff deserves a HUGE thump on his thick head for swinging at that first pitch. Stupid and costly.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 9, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

Grinch: who the hell is Ron Jeremy? I scanned Baseball Reference and Baseball Library for control types - no pitchers by that name listed…. oh, wait a minute, you are talking about Ron Jeremy, the Batsman?? Sheeeeeeit - he got nothing on me.

By the way Grinch, check your email.

SouthernJerkAss - you are a dirtbag. Same old empty promises.

By serbok

May 9, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Metsfan~ I forgot to sya~ look for a different ending~ comming your way~

By Darrin "The Vent King"

May 9, 2007 11:45 PM | Link to this

Just got back home from the game. It was nice to see “Mad Dog” again. Had to get out even on a worknight to see that Smoltzie vs Maddux matchup. Even better, it was nice to see what I saw coming in a trend I see with these Braves that I’ve NEVER seen; clutch come from behind hitting. That is something during that 14 year run (save ‘95 and that Sid Bream/Francisco Cabrera play back in the day) that these Braves always seemed to be on the bad end of. The other thing that they seemed to be missing (save those same two seasons) was an effective bullpen. I’m going to say this right here- if Wickman returns to form, the Braves are going to have THE best bullpen in the league this season. I’ve been high on Soriano since the day I heard we got him, BUT after seeing Mike Gonzalez in person, he is THE MAN! With those two AND Wickman in our bullpen, if you haven’t blown the Braves out of contention by the sixth inning, you’re going to be reaaaaaal nervous playing them this season. I just hope they can keep it up.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 9, 2007 11:46 PM | Link to this

Grinch: Ya bag - in a four game series, the first one don’t count - we beat em tomorrow, we sweep! Unlike your attempts to sweep women off their feet - instead, they hit you over the head with a broom.

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

NIGHT ALL.GOT’A GET MOVE’N

By Send Money

May 9, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this

Grinch I was in a grocery the other day and came across a big black guy stacking oversized cucumbers.I’m not a freud fan, but it was somehow intimidating.

By choppinmama

May 9, 2007 11:56 PM | Link to this

What? Cla Meredith’s mother ran out of letters when she was naming her newborn son?

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 10, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

Grinch said I will now watch something on TV for a while so I don’t get accused of posting too often in a short period as if I have no life like N8…luv ya, bro.

Guess he’s watching Ron Jeremy sword fights.

Choppin Mama said Although the shot was shown.. Ditto.

I’m tired, I’m out - gotta go rest the considerable intellect for another day of taking advantage of the less mentally and physically endowed. Night all.

By Willy Wally

May 10, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

BabyGoatEater, it’s cool. I dish out the personal attacks about as much as anyone on here so I should be able to grin and bear it when they get headed my way from bloggers I respect when I lead the way with my chin, waiting for someone to clobber me with that kind of post.

As for, jwshults, however, whatever. (sounds like a Shakira song - Edgar & DOB would appreciate that reference).

jwshults, never seen you post anything and if you have it was not anything worth reading otherwise I would remember you and respect what you gotta say about me. The other bloggers on here can disagree with me or ignore me all they want because I respect them. I don’t however respect drive by shooters on the blog who stop by only as long as it takes to just snipe at bloggers but add nothing of substance themselves. In fact, my lengthy post was directed at guys like you and not the bloggers on here, maybe that is why you took such offense to it - people like you tend not to want to read the truth about themselves. Why bother? jwshults, you can just continue to be a drive by blogger who snipes at people.

Night, everybody. Hopefully, I’ll regain my sanity in the morn’.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

N8,

In regards to your 10:24 post.

Bob Wickman is a strikeout pitcher. No, not a power pitcher. But he’s recorded 9K in 11.1 innings.

Prior to his FL debacle (back injury?), he had 8 K in 9.2 innings with only 4 walks.

He’s got a better k/9 ratio than Gonzalez right now even after those 3 rough outings.

The guy can pitch.

By Willy Wally

May 10, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

SendMoney, Jesse Jackson just called and he wants you banned for life for your 11:54. Sharpton says you just Imused yourself.

By brent a.

May 10, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

I believe that the large majority of baseball fans, fully understand that the Yankees are the most popular team in baseball, and that the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry is the largest in the game. But, that’s not my point.

My point is that I think it will be interesting to see if a southern-based cable channel, can successfully alter the current landscape of MLB coverage, in a way that shifts some of the exposure away from the Yankees-Red Sox, to different teams, different players, and different rivalries, without damaging its ratings.

If TBS, based in Atlanta, cannot do this, then I think it will force people to back away from this mentality that the folks in Bristol are force-feeding us this rivalry because of their own biases, and not because it’s what the viewer demands.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Willy,

For the record, I never want to be considered with the likes of a Boston fan. NEVER.

That is not the fanbase (or city) to idealize.

By Jimbotron

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

This may be off topic, but does anybody wish there was more visible animosity in the Braves-Mets rivalry? Wouldn’t a good bench-clearing brawl after a bean fest be great? I would love to see Francouer beat David Wright’s a*. Anyone else?

By gotigers72

May 10, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

DOB - Do you happen to know whether or not the brass of the Braves has ordered an emphasis on running [stealing bases] for the minor league clubs? Every time I go on the minor league website and check box scores, it seems like they [especially Richmond and more especially Mississippi], are doing a lot of running whether they are getting caught or not.

Just curious if the Braves as an organization are trying to put a little more zip in future position players.

By choppinmama

May 10, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

DOB: would you comment on Greg’s early exit? I was surprised, but am not familiar with his average # of innings pitched so far this season.

Good thing you aren’t paying Wally by the word tonight!

By Willy Wally

May 10, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

brent a., point well taken - my rant to the contrary notwithstanding.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Choppinmama, that’s not really too unusual for Maddux, who’s averaged just over six innings per start the past couple years. He said he was tired tonight, and regretted putting so much pressore on the ‘pen.

The man’s getting old, period. Still damn good when he’s on. Just doesn’t go deep in games very often anymore.

Just glanced at his recent starts after you asked, and it looks like that’s the seventh time in his past 21 starts that he’s pitched fewer than six innings.

By The Grinch

May 10, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Scalp, Ron was a swordsman of the highest order. No, dissin’ please. And what I do with a broom handle is none of your business. And how did you know Choppinmama and I were watching the same movie? Pervert.

Send Money, if it weren’t for big black guys, my girlfriend would be much more irritating (yes, I’m white). The geen thing, though; that’s too Captain Kirk for me.

Jimbotron, good call.

By Willy Wally

May 10, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

For the record, I never want to be considered with the likes of a Boston fan. NEVER. That is not the fanbase (or city) to idealize.

Oh, why not, meansonny. You don’t want to be a bunch of woe is me losers? Can’t blame you. The worst thing that ever happened to that city was winning a World Series - they lost their entire identity in four games. Maybe that will be their new woe is me act. Oh, woe is us, we won the World Series, now we have no idea who we are.

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

What is a Met? I haven’t found a meaning in any Dictionary for the term Met: so as far as I can tell Met=ABSOLUTELY NOTHING,So Metman,no chop,and metsfan,you guys and your team as well as your opinions are,and mean NOTHING!

By Willy Wally

May 10, 2007 12:45 AM | Link to this

Take me out to the brawlgame:

If there was a bench clearing brawl, I think Bob Wickman would kill some mofos out there.

Willy Aybar would be the secret weapon, pulling the disappearing Invisible Man act, jabbing people out of nowhere, telling them now you see me, now you don’t.

I could see Tim Hudson flexing, telling everyone, don’t mess with me, I’m wiry.

Renteria and Soriano would be the silent assassins, taking people out without uttering a word.

Andruw would should us finally what the dropping down to one knee thing is all about as he knees everyone on the ground to death.

Frenchy would just be scary out there - a freaking maniac free safety with unbridled aggression just taking out half the Mets.

By SomeYahoo

May 10, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Just wanted to point out a 10,000 foot observation of the current competitive balance in baseball. 17 teams are currently over .500 — 8 in the NL, 9 in the AL. Of the top ten run scoring clubs, 6 are NL clubs. On the fewest runs allowed side, it’s even at 5 apiece.

To me, this season is going to be the year that all that “AL is superior” crap comes to an end. I say the NL actually takes the interleague session this year and also the win the Series again, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see our Bravos there.

Though the NL has more balanced talent, I don’t see any buzzsaw matchups with clubs like the ‘03 Cubbies or the ‘04, ‘05 Astros, with two overpowering pitchers who get hot in a hitter friendly ballpark. Milwaukee, strangely enough, seems like they could be that team this year. And on the AL side, Boston looks like a juggernaut, but who knows if the rotation can hold up and Manny and the gang are getting older. A Boston-Atlanta WS would be just about the most amazing matchup one could hope for.

All that to say that if we can put together a major-injury-free, consistent season, I think we have a promising path to get to the WS again. This team reminds me of the ‘95 club more than any other since, and I think this club has more talent, though a much weaker rotation. They had amazing close and late and clutch stats too. Here’s to seeing a reincarnation of the year it all came together for us.

By Mitchie-san

May 10, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

Fact of the night…”Do you folks realize that we are 21-8 in games that Redman hasn’t pitched?”

Brilliant.

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 12:49 AM | Link to this

You guys know something:there is absolutely nothing wrong with running a fiscally sound,or should I say sane organization,that being said,the Braves tried the Yankees,Red Sox,and Mets way in the past,it netted us 1 World series title,so if by some crazy quirk the Braves still played money ball,maybe we don’t see McCann,Francouer,K.J.,Thorman(and oh hell yes I am a fan of Thorman)C.James etal.than what? you guys would clamor for Schuerholz to be fired for trading away our future!!!

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

Hey Braves fans,ever notice how the Mets lineup resembles a geriatric ward register?

By Bob, journalist

May 10, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, Having the 3-4-5 starters carry their weight 50% of the time is a losing proposition … if they carry their weight 100% of the time, we might win 55% of those games.

It’s reasonable to expect all players to carry their weight … but, some juat weigh more than others!

WW, a good fisherman does not waste good bait on idoits … a simple shiny hook will do the trick.

Send Money, Traditionalists don’t believe that teams should rely on closers as currently defined … the best closers are those who can finish that which they start! Good starters are setting up the hitters from the very first pitch for exploitation in the last innings … methinks that fans being deprived of seeing the drama so unfold is a travesty.

Honorable Southern, welcome back!

By Coach

May 10, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

The cardiac kids did it again , two games in a row. Same score , same story. Solid pitching , clutch hitting and a lights out bullpen. three out of four from the friar’s would be sweet.

By DAP

May 10, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

willy wally, geez… ive read plenty of posts by people mad about losing maddux and glavine and many other of our great players, and you say no one on here cares when that happens? you oughta pay attention on here before you waste your life writing a book, dude.

By HP

May 10, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Just got back home from the game. It was great to see us get a win. I was also great to see Andruw get a clutch hit. I think he is defenitly breaking out. Mets Fans watch out for the Braves. Smoltz had a good outing. Soriano and Gonzalez were lights out. By the way does anyone know why they took the Bravo Club out. I did not see any of the Bravo Club kiosk at the ballpark. I was a big fan of that. Go Braves!!!!!

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

Mad Dog is averaging 70 pitches per outing this season. Even though 70 pitches is pretty efficient through 5 innings, he’s getting the showers.

It’s about on pace with his 2003 season on the Braves. He averaged 80 pitches per start and completed an average of 6 innings.

This is what’s to be expected when a guy who is used to being efficient all his life turns 41.

God Bless him. Can’t wait to see us face him again in July. Good Times.

By fastasballs

May 10, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

Jimbotron

It would be fun to see a good old fashion bench clearer with the Mets. Might add a little bit to the rivalry. Who am I kidding it’s no rivalry, more like a hatred. Don’t the Mets actually have to beat the Braves every now & then to be considered a rival?

Our pen may be a non factor in the brawl because most would be out of breath once they reached the infield. A man can’t fight without air.

Do you guys remember the brawl against San Diego about 20 some years ago? I remember the Padre pitchers missed trying to hit Pasqual Perez about 3 times. I have that game on a VHS tape somewhere at my parents house. It was a Sunday game if I remember correctly. I’ll have to dig the tape up the next time I am over there. Think I have Horner’s four HR game as well. My father taped every sporting event known to mankind from the early 80’s to the early 90’s so Lord only knows what else is on the hundreds of tapes in the basement.

It’s funny the games you remember the most from when you were a kid. I remember when Murphy pinched his hand in between the outfield fence while going after a ball and had to come out of the game because he hurt it bad. He had a really long games played streak, 600 or 700 straight games at that point. I was 8 or 9 at the time and I remember being so worried his streak would end but the next night he was in there with his hand all wrapped up. Pretty sure he hit a one out that night. Like I said it’s funny what you remember.

By choppinmama

May 10, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

Thanks, DOB. He probably wasted at least another 1/2 inning’s worth of energy on that stupendous hit and hustle down to 1st.

‘night, denizens. See you at 1 pm tomorrow.

By Scott

May 10, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

Great game tonight from two hall of famers. And Willy, do you ever visit Braves message boards? The fans are constantly p** about the team dumping star players but what are you going to do against a huge corporation like Time Warner? If the fans don’t go to the games then they are labeled as bad fans. The Braves draw over 2.5 million fans a year, that’s down from over 3 million every year they drew in the 90s. The reason, most people can’t stand the ownership. They never did anything to put the team over the top the way the Yankees try to every year. Yet when the fans stop coming the media rips Atlanta as being a terrible sports town. What else do you want people to do go up to New York with torches and pitch forks and stand outside the Time Warner corporate offices?

By choppinmama

May 10, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this

fastasballs: I have over a hundred vhs tapes of Braves games and highlights from the early 90s thru last season that I have recently moved with us from GA to FL. Bought a DVD burner with intentions of putting them all onto DVDs. Put a new disc in before the Smoltz v.Maddux matchup, all ready to capture tonight’s - make that last night’s game. Turned it on at 7:30, pressed RECORD……….oh the humanity!! #!## machine didn’t work. But I have my memories……..

By serbok

May 10, 2007 1:51 AM | Link to this

Last Post for the night~ (maybe) unless someone can Pitch me something to Hit? :o) My one gripe about blogging is~ people changing their screennames~ I just dont understand~ I love my Budweieser~ and sometimes~ do not say politically correct things~ But! I am In no Way! embarrassed about what I post~~~! If I post like a Fool~ then So be it! I will Standup~ and take the criticism for it~ If ~one cannot post with authority~ one Should not Post! Sorry~ for the vent~ just kinda gets my panties in a wad~ when people do that? LOL Go Braves~um I meant Brewers~ um maybe giants~ then again~ Bosox~ but then again~~~ hmmmmm Tampa Bay Buccaneers!

By serbok

May 10, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

DID I say the mets?????????????????????????????????????????? OMG! thats one of the pleasures of late night blogging? Nobody is really listening? {fingers crossed!) first person to tell me who threw the Ephus pitch and how short he/she was~ gets to be disregarded by the closest braves fan within 5 states? lol

By Bob, journalist

May 10, 2007 2:27 AM | Link to this

Nobody threw the Ephus like Rip Sewell … I think he was 6 feet tall when he threw ole Ephus to Williams …

By serbok

May 10, 2007 2:34 AM | Link to this

Wow~ Bob` I was thinkin~ Rick Reed~ back in the early 70’s~ he was 6’10~ however~ I’m thinkin now~ you are absolutely correct!!!!! Well~ maybe that braves fan 4 states away~ will give you some respect? :o)

By Oregon_Braves

May 10, 2007 3:36 AM | Link to this

Plenty of respect for Bob. No respect for Dayn Perry, who is indeed a douchebag.

By Wayne in Utah (this week in Wyoming)

May 10, 2007 3:43 AM | Link to this

Jazz Win Tonight!!!

Only problem now is, if they sweep Golden State, I can’t catch another game in the second round. But, that would mean that the kiddo and I could catch game 3 or 4 of the 3rd round against Phoenix/San Antonio.

Deron Williams is the 2nd best floor general in the NBA today, and hardly anybody knows it! Nash is the best.

All the others are either not as good, or more of a scorer than a floor leader (Wade, Iverson, Starbury, Baron Davis, Arenas, etc.) Scorers first, playmakers as an afterthought.

Jason Kidd is a close 3rd.

Sorry, but nobody else was awake, so I decided to talk to myself…….

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

By Braves Fan 79

May 10, 2007 4:27 AM | Link to this

why does tbs think thell be successfull showing other teams play?? now on tbs…the devil rays vs the royals!
I personally vow to never watch any team on tbs unless its the Braves!
and the Braves cant win 3 in a row because cox kept giving Redmen chance after chance….man i hope redmen gets cut after he gets off the DL!!

By caveman22

May 10, 2007 5:56 AM | Link to this

I have never posted at this hour of the night. I was just wondering if anybody was still on here , so to speak.

By ssiscribe

May 10, 2007 6:32 AM | Link to this

Even though I couldn’t go last night, seeing Smoltz vs. Maddux was way, way cool. Saw Glavine and Smoltz with the esteemed Grinch and Metro Man earlier this year, but I would’ve loved to been at the yard last night.

And here’s the coolest thing: All three of those guys are still winning, 14 years after they teamed up to form what is the best rotation in the history of baseball, bar none (Mark Bradley lays it out there in excellent form in his column today).

What a delight last night. Both guys threw it great, and the Braves won another one late. 21-12. Braves didn’t win their 21st game last year until May 18th, according to retrosheet.org (a really, really cool Web site; used to come in handy with research for stories and stuff, and just fun to get on there and surf around).

And now, an afternoon special at Turner Field to end the homestand. Another big roadie awaits, with Pittsburgh, the Nats and the BoSox. Let’s go get this one with Huddy today, and hit the road to keep up with the Mets, who play host to the red-hot, best-in-baseball Brew Crew this weekend.

Still waiting on the big fish to flop. Maybe? Maybe not? May know soon. Little fish are in the pan, and for now, the Scribe abides.

—30—

By Frits

May 10, 2007 7:53 AM | Link to this

What a nice game last night….I could not believe my eyes when I saw Andruw having a normal stance for a change, could it be that he read in here and took some of the advice ??? some words to my man : Andruw, homber, si bo ta lesa e coy aki, nos ta orguyo bo ta compronde bo mester cambia. Hopi hende aki na Korsou sa bo ta mas miho pero bo mester tende tambe! Hende lubida e no ta fasi pa perform tur dia Nos sa bo tin kalidad i curazon pa e wega. Hopi fuerte i un tiki suerte ta nooit weg tambe !!!

By dadgum

May 10, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

Nothing really to add to this fine blog today except that Andruw may be on the uptick while remaining as cleanup. Let’s hope.

Anyway just to satisfy my curiousity SSISCRIBE or anyone….what is with the -30- after the post?

Rock On……remembering Jim Morrison

By Bigboi

May 10, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this

Boyz I think we have a keeper in left field. DOB any chance Willie becomes our everyday left fielder?

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Bigboi,

I hope Willie Harris continues to play over his head. Not trying to be a downer but I can’t find a similar 9-game stretch anywhere else in his career so I think it’s premature to say he’s a “keeper” in LF.

But maybe he’s one of those players that has found the magic for a while (ala Charles Thomas).

I guess if your Bobby Cox, you’ve got to play him until he shows you he’s going to stop hitting.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

Bigboi, The LF platoon is working. Because it’s working, I’m sure lots of people are going to want to give an everyday job away.

Diaz is 3 for his last 6 as a starter since Willie C. came up (he’s 2 for 4 as a PH).

Willie Harris is 10 for his last 22 at bats as a starting LF. (he’s 0 for 2 as a PH).

We’ve obviously been facing a lot of righties lately. But don’t let that fool you. Specialization appears to be doing well for us right now.

By jeff

May 10, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

it is too bad the wednesday game was not picked up by espn. a night off from the fox team is always nice. the new guy is competent but is lacking in the gravitas we have come to expect in braves announcers. but worse, they brought joe simpson, the frank burns of the broadcast team, to work with him.

By Richard Stripling

May 10, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Nascar fined Earnhart Jr $25K for saying sh— on radio. How much should major league baseball fine Greg Maddox for using the “F” word every time he makes a poor pitch?

By KC

May 10, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

ATLANTA — It’s always dangerous to make too much of one game, but the Braves are suddenly feeling a lot better about the back end of their rotation.

An outing like Anthony Lerew’s will do that.

The 24-year-old right-hander, making his first Major League start, kept the Padres in check over six impressive innings Tuesday night, striking out seven.

“He was tremendous,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said Wednesday. “He has that sinker now and it’s been magic.”

Braves pitching coach Roger McDowell had Lerew discard his split-finger pitch this spring and instead throw a sinking, two-seam fastball to go with his four-seam fastball, slider and changeup.

OOOOOHHHH IF ONLY WE HAD LEO!!!! Roger McDowell sucks… blah, blah, blah.

The more time goes by, the more people are going to realize that McDowell is an excellent pitching coach.

McDowell also tinkered with Lerew’s delivery, and the results have been dramatic after a season when the right-hander went from top prospect to somewhat less promising.

“It’s like night and day,” Cox said. “He looks like a completely different pitcher. It’s a tremendous difference.”

By KC

May 10, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

DOB: How’s Cormier coming along?

If Lerew is half as good as he looked the other night, then especially when James gets his act together (as I still expect he will), this rotation won’t really have any problems. When Cormier’s ready, we’d simply be back to the original question back in the spring… Davies or Cormier in the 5 slot?

More good news for the bullpen depth…

From Braves.com:

Boyer back on mound: Right-handed reliever Blaine Boyer, on the disabled list since the start of the Minor League season because of an oblique strain, was activated and pitched two scoreless innings for Triple-A Richmond on Tuesday night.

The 25-year-old, who missed almost all of last season because of shoulder surgery, gave up just one hit, but walked three in Richmond’s 4-3 victory at Charlotte.

Called up in June 2005, Boyer was 4-2 with a 3.11 ERA in 43 games for the Braves before he began to experience shoulder problems. He pitched in just two games last year.

Boyer was 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in five appearances this spring with the Braves before being optioned to Richmond. He hurt his side just before the start of the Triple-A season.

By Efrim

May 10, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

KC,

Thoughts on Chuck James?

By braves fan

May 10, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I have to disagree with any notion that the Braves would trade Wickman to fill some other need. A bullpen like this one with a healthy Wickman, Soriano and Gonzalez is the stuff that World Series championships are made of. There is no immediate need the Braves have that would make it worth losing that dominate three headed monster out there in the bullpen.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this

Bigboi, I second Shaun’s post following yours.

By KC

May 10, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

meansonny: Thanks for pointing that out. I haven’t asked this question in a few days, but…

Where are my Willie Harris haters?

I was heavily criticized by a few esteemed bloggers around here for my constant calls that the Braves call up Willie Harris. Where are they now?

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t expect Harris’ avg. at season’s end to be well over .300 as it is now, but he does appear to be an improved hitter after making some adjustments suggested by Terry P. back in the spring. And as I’ve said from day-1… it’s always nice to have a guy who can run like that (and can play 4-5 positions) on your team.

By JasonInMaine

May 10, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

I wish baseball would go back to the balanced schedule. The unbalanced schedule doesn’t make sense to me.

By KC

May 10, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Efrim: I think he’s sucked.

But… I think he’ll come around. By “come around”, I mean that I think he’ll give the Braves more innings than he has been, and his ERA at season’s end will be around or under 4.00. I don’t know if he’ll be a huge innings eater at any point this season, but I think he’ll come around and will give the Braves an acceptable number of innings per start.

Right now, his command isn’t sharp. He’s falling behind hitters, issuing a lot of walks, and tallying up astronomical pitch counts early. I expect that he’ll look more like that the 2006 version of Chuck James at some point fairly soon. He may not match his ERA or especially his record/win% from last season, but I think last year’s performance is truer to the kind of pitcher he is than what he’s been doing lately.

I think he’s very capably of being a quality #3 starter.

By Bigboi

May 10, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

MeanSonny, according to your earlier post that’s even more reason to give Willie the everyday job. Diaz is a much better PH. Also Willie’s glove is needed in left not to mention his speed. I love Diaz but I think he would do better coming off of the bench as a PH. Also, some players just plain out play better when they return home. Growing up in GA he’s always wanted to be a brave, now that he’s here he’s simply showing what he can do night in and night out.

By KC

May 10, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

braves fan:: After last year, isn’t it amazing that Wickman can go down and we don’t even miss him in the slightest?!

I’m all for trading Wickman (after he proves he’s healthy) if we can get something of real value in return.

Some have pointed out that we only gave up a single-A catcher to get Wickman from Cleveland… implying that we couldn’t get anything for Wick.

But the reason we gave only a marginal single-A prospect for Wickman was that he had 10-5 powers, and later admitted to blocking multiple trades last season. Wickman pretty much made it clear that he wanted to go to Atlanta, and if Cleveland wanted to get anything in return for Wickman, they’d have to deal with the Braves.

Again, there were multiple offers for Wickman last year that were presumably much better than the one Schuerholz made, but Wickman didn’t leave the Indians with any options.

Anyway, if/when Wickman’s back at 100%… if we have any remaining weaknesses in the rotation at that time, I’d still like to see Soriano get a crack at starting. If he could make the transition as Braden Looper did (and I think there’s a good chance of that)… he would be much more valuable as a starter than as a setup man for Wickman, considering we’ve still got Gonzo and Yates down there to set-up.

By flange1

May 10, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I thought the release of Coyler to bring up Lerew was very interesting with Barry on the team and not having pitched at all. I didn’t think Coyler was great, but he did give us a second lefty in the pen. Do you think this move is the precursor to bring back McBride or maby even Redman in the pen?

Has Hampton been back around the team since his surgury? Just curious about his mindset.

Finally, do guys like Wickman and Redman continue to work out with the team and be with the team while on the IR list?

Thanks!

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Bigboi,

Great post about Diaz in the DH. I personally think that’s where he’s most productive. But he can fill that role when a lefthanded pitcher is on the mound.

For the record, Willie C Harris is 0 for 1 with a strikeout against left handed pitching. Diaz is hitting .333 against lefty’s all season.

Willie is playing awesome. But keep the perspective that he’s specializing against one type of release. I think he (and Diaz) can keep up this success in their current roles.

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Bigboi,

Is Diaz a better PH? Hope your not judging him on his 2 for 4 this season and Harris’s 2 AB’s.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

KC

I definitely wasn’t a Willie Harris hater (I expected an immediate offensive improvement to Langy as did everyone). But I could’ve sworn that he was just a stop-gap until the trade deadline (and that still could’ve been the original intent).

Hopefully, the Braves will be facing lots more right handers this season. Because he his playing the best baseball of his life.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

Good post KC.

“If” is a very good word in there, because a few other posters feel very confident that we already have what it takes to settle down the bottom of the order (I’m a little more skeptical, though as I feel we have lots of #4 & #5 talent, but lack another starter to carry us into the playoffs).

Curious… does Wick have the ability to block a trade from the Braves? He has obvious value here. But it wouldn’t do much good to us if our market to trade him is limited (thus the return on the trade would be limited like Cleveland).

By JMar

May 10, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this

Question for DOB: I don’t think there’s any doubt that Glavine and Maddux will go in as first ballot HOFers. Smoltzie is likely a HOFer, but maybe not a first ballot guy. If Smoltz, Glavine, and Maddux all retired at the same time, do you think it would help his first ballot chances, as people would want to see the three teammates go in at the same time, or hurt his chances, as his numbers simply don’t compare to Maddux and Glavine? I know I would do whatever necessary to make the trip to Cooperstown to see all three inducted into the same class.

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

KC and bravesfan,

I agree. I don’t know how much the Braves could get for Wickman. They’d probably get more value by just keeping him. I guess you never know if a team is going to overextend for a proven closer. I just don’t see a team giving up that much for an older, one-inning pitcher, albeit an effective one when healthy.

Also, from the Braves perspective, you can’t have enough quality arms. If you’re going to trade Wickman, you better get some value for him. Even though he’s an old, one-inning pitcher, he’s still a pitcher and an effective one when healthy.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Sorry. Meant to say that Diaz has been extemely successful for us in the PH. not DH (although that would be nice wouldn’t it :-)

By MGL

May 10, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this

Someone mentioned earlier that Salty would probably start today to give McCann a rest. Do I remember correctly some discussion last year about Hudson being extremely difficult to catch due to the movement he gets? If that’s the case, doubt Bobby will take the chance, although he might want to see what he can handle.

By braves baby

May 10, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

We do not need to trade Salty. He is 22 years old, has time and is proving hes a major league player. A strong hitting catcher with a rocket arm is worth more then a AA or AAA pitcher and a prospect. Salty is a player who will bring a ton of trade ideas. BUT the braves need him to go back down to AA and contine to play everyday. You never know what the future holds but we do not NEED to trade Salty.

By Ron Roberts

May 10, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Folks, things are setting to work very much in our favor. Consider….

1. Lance Cormier is coming back.

2. Blaine Boyer is coming back.

3. Anthony Lerew might’ve thrown his name into the ring for the fifth starter’s spot.

4. If/when Wickman comes back, he’ll come back to a bullpen that’s doing just fine - without him. That gives us leverage if we see a deal come our way that improves this team without substantially weakening. What’s more, the play of Jarrod Saltalamacchia gives us yet another piece if there’s a viable trade out there that improves this team for this year and a few years down the road.

Basically, we’re not at the mercy of an unstable Kyle Davies and a flat-out awful Mike Redman, once Lance gets back.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m hesitant to hop on the “keep Lerew” bandwagon, because I also remember Kyle Davies’ first game was a gem, on the road in Boston, and we were all excited about that, too. he may turn out to be the next big thing in our rotation, but he’s not looking it - consistently - right now.

That being said, if Lerew now has all the pitches he needs to be effective, then we’re in great shape with our rotation, our bullpen, and our offense has proven to be productive - even if only at key moments.

At least when a starter blanks us, now, we seem to re-group when a reliever comes in. What’s really encouraging is that we’ve had great comebacks against two the league’s best two bullpens, lately.

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Shaun, I would’ve thought you already knew this.

Diaz is 5 for 10 in PH opportunities this season (2 for 4 since Harris was called up).

He was 13 for 43 last season for ATL (a good reason why I think we were 1st in the NL in that category last year).

Overall, he’s hitting .339 since coming to ATL in the PH role.

But again, he can fill that PH role best when a Left handed starter is on the mound (because he’s so serviceable against right handers).

By daniel

May 10, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

I don’t like the idea of dealing Wickman until we have 2 guys other than Soriano and Gonzalez step up and show they can be lights out most nights. We have really used Soriano and Gonzalez a lot early on to set the tone for the season, but I can’t see us using those 2 at this pace forever. We need Wickman to come back and spell the other two so they’ll all be fresh for the stretch run.

By Steve McP

May 10, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

When looking at Smoltz’s numbers don’t forget the seasons spent as a closer, which skew them quite a lot. I think the HoF beckons as a starter/closer/starter with the best record in post season play of any pitcher.

By daniel

May 10, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

By the way, I love to see these comeback victories. But, we need to blow a team out every once in a while to let the other guys in the bullpen work some low stress innings and give Soriano and Gonzalez a day or two off.

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

August 16, 2004.

This is the date of Mike Gonzalez’s first save. It also happens to be the start date of his streak. 29 straight successfull saves without a blown save.

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

MGL,

My guess is if the brought Salty up, they think he can handle major league catching duties.

meansonny,

Diaz has been effective…in 10 AB’s. In the three previous seasons, he wasn’t good as a PH.

Not saying he shouldn’t be used as a PH, I’m just saying I wouldn’t rely on his PH stats as justification for using him only in a PH role or only in a starting role. I vote for looking at his overall numbers/abilities and the Braves using him when they need him.

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Steve McP,

I think Smoltz’s HOF chances increase with each passing day. He probably wasn’t a clear-cut candidate until his second good season since returning to the starting rotation last year.

He’s shown us his major arm problems may be behind him and with 1-3 more years of healthy seasons, I think he’s a fairly certain HOFer.

I think the likelihood of him being a first ballot HOFer is pretty low, especially with him probably retiring around the same time as so many obvious first ballot types—Clemens, Maddux, Glavine, maybe Pedro.

By Kieran from Long Island

May 10, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

“I’d imagine [Renteria]’ll be back in there tomorrow, although they probably don’t need him to beat over-the-hill Boomer with Hudson pitching. But we’ll see. These things that appear so obvious are usually the games that blow up in your face. But I just can’t see them losing tomorrow (I know, now I’ve cursed the Braves)”

Isn’t that the truth.

Also excellent point about Andruw hitting teh ball to right field, it seems that ever year when he breaks out of his slump he does so by driving the ball to right field. It really is a shame that he doesn’t make that part of his routine on a regular basis, rather then continually trying to recreate that swing that got him 52 homeruns the year he widened his stance. No Worries about Andruw though. And my god can we take a step back and look at Chipper??? He’s looking like 1990’s chipper. i think that fried chicken fast food diet in the off season served him well!!

Once again I ask, Do you think that Guys liek Paranto or yates (Who only a year ago were castoffs looking for jobs) will have trade value come July 31st if they keep their ERA;s down around 3.50 or so? You ahve to think the depleted pitching in the American league will cause for someone to offer a bat? Any thoughts?

By KC

May 10, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Meansonny:

No, Wickman cannot block a trade. The Braves do not give no-trade clauses, so there isn’t one in his contract. And while he had 10-5 veto powers back in Cleveland, he obviously hasn’t been here 5 years, so he can’t block any trade the Braves may make.

I agree with those that have said we need to make sure we get something of immediate value in return if we’re going to trade Wickman. We don’t trade him simply to get something in return. Cleveland did that last year because they weren’t in the chase for anything at the deadline.

Again though, if/when Wickman’s back at 100%, I’d really like to see Soriano in the rotation. Unless of course the rotation is doing just fine by that point in time.

By KC

May 10, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Gotta go get ready to head out to the Ted. Huddy on the mound today for the series win. Yeah baby!

By Mets Fans

May 10, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Just a snippet for you ‘Necks.

…Reyes has become every pitcher’s worst nightmare, leading the Majors with 19 steals in 31 games and sparking a fire at the top of the Mets’ lineup unlike any the league has seen in years. He’s a rare talent — each time he gets on base, everyone from the pitcher down to the hot dog vendor knows he’s about to bolt. And there’s still not a thing anyone can do about it.

“It’s amazing to me how much they panic,” said Mets second baseman Jose Valentin. “He changes the game completely when he’s on base.” His teammates are quick to spew out superlatives. Best in the game. Most prolific they’ve ever seen. The laundry list unravels down to the floor, and it’s just the beginning for a 23-year-old shortstop still years away from his prime.

Of course, age matters little to a player piling up video-game numbers, already fourth on the Mets’ all-time steals list with 175. By season’s end, the 23-year-old will likely be second on that chart, putting him in position to reach Mookie Wilson’s career mark of 281 steals sometime following his 25th birthday.

Just another reason The Amazins will be DOMINATING the East for years to come. LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Lew

May 10, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

KC-I’ve always said I’d cheer for anyone in a Braves uniform-Willie Harris included. However, his start at more than 100 points above his career average makes no more sense than Langerhans hitting 200 points below his career average made. I hope he continues to perform well. The Braves can only benefit from his performance if he does. I wouldn’t go holding my breath and turning purple, though. It’s been a whole week now and is hardly a representative sample of his career. I’m actually more surprised that BC has let him run, than the fact he looks like the second coming of Chuckie T. I hope his success continues, but I’m not ready to give him the job full time, much less pencil him in as Andruw’s replacement for several years to come.

By Fred from CT

May 10, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

great job by the fans last night showing maddux the respect he deserves. Great job by everyone

By fastasballs

May 10, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

The Braves have an excellent chance of getting on a roll over the next week. After today their next seven games are against the Pirates & the Nats. They could easily take 6 or 7 out the next 8. The Muts have the Brew crew & a surging Cubs team over the same stretch. A 3 or 4 game lead would be nice & even funnier would be the further implosion of Mets fans.

I would say Smoltz is just about a HOF lock, the first ballot is questionable, but the next few seasons will probably determine if he goes in on the first ballot.

Barring injury he should win anywhere between 230-250 games w/150 saves. Without the missed season & the four years in the pen he would have ended up winning over 300 & striking out over 3500. If the Braves can win another WS in the next several years and he is as dominant in post season as he has been I would say he is a lock for first ballot.

By Rodger

May 10, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

“I’m not a right-field hitter. I’m a pull hitter. That’s what it is”

Did Andruw have his “smirk” when he was saying that?

By meansonny

May 10, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

surprise, surprise… we’re not on the same page.

I like Diaz in the platoon. That’s my stance.

I also like Diaz in the PH when he’s not starting.

To correct you, Diaz was effective last year (not just the 10 AB this season). Over 53 at bats, he’s hitting .339. That’s considered a decent sample size when you’re dealing with a PH.

Ron Roberts

Great post. I don’t think anything more could be added (nor anything worded better).

By ncscoots

May 10, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

There’s no indication that Cormier will be effective if and when he returns, fellas, so I’m a little confused over the sentiment that he’s an automatic for the rotation. He had a good spring. That’s it. We haven’t seen him yet for the real deal. Whether he can pitch well enough to supplant any of the current starters is open to debate, IMO.

And oh yeah…could we get one of those 4-early-win-7-to-2 games going? These nailbiters are fun, but too much of a good thing, etc., LOL

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

John Smoltz is a first-ballot Hall of Famer, without question. It doesn’t matter when other guys retire, or anything else. No one else has 200 wins and 150 saves in a career. Eckersley, the only other pitcher with 150 wins and 150 saves, was a no-brainer, and Smoltz has surpassed what Eck accomplished IMHO, in that no one has ever gone from being a dominant, Cy-Young earning starter, to dominant, lights-out closer, back to Cy-Young caliber starter as Smoltz has done. And he’s done it for one team, which does (contrary to popular opinion) makes for a good story, and thus improves his chances. Smoltz is in the Top 5 or 6 pitchers of his era (with Clemens, Maddux, Randy Johnson, Glavine, and P. Martinez, all likely HOFers).

I could be flat wrong, and I have no HOF vote, but he is a lock in my estimation. Pitchers get in on wins and strikeouts, to a large degree. Saves are becoming a big qualifying factor as well. 200+ wins (will be this year), 154 saves, and 2800+ strikeouts (will be 3,000 by the time he retires). The only non-active pitcher with at least 3,000 K who is not a HOF player is Bert Blyleven. He’s in, folks.

By ncscoots

May 10, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

Just another reason The Amazins will be DOMINATING the East for years to come. LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You mean, of course, except for this year, so far.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 10, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

I understand that all the Mets shaved their heads in a show of unity, even Minaya participated—the barber that did the shearing reported that the entire process took only about 5 minutes, and also said the following, “Most of those dudes were so old, the only places they had any hair was a little above their ears, and on the backs of their necks, none on top. Man those dudes are old!”…

Scalp ‘Ummmmm—your old lady says the same thing when it comes to you and sex—“Same old empty promises!”…

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

fastasballs:

Good point about Smoltz and the missing season. If he plays out all the incentives of his new contract, he’ll pitch this year and three more (I think). He’s averaged 15 wins in the two seasons since returning to the rotation, and he’ll likely have 18-22 wins this year. Projecting that out over his contract (which granted is dangerous) he’ll be looking at 3500 K and 250 wins. He’s in, and I’m fairly sure he’ll get in on the first ballot.

BTW, I’m a Smoltz fan, in case you can’t tell.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

My first post (11:19) should say “it makes for a good story.” My grammar is not great today.

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Metsfans do what your daddy told ya son SHUTTHEHELLUP moron!nobody here gives a happy damn about the MUTTS!!!

By ncscoots

May 10, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

Excuse me, but aren’t many of the same posters who are now touting a possible Wickman trade the same ones who gushed in February at the thought of a three-headed monster shortening games? And some people say women can’t make up their minds (not ME, CLady, SOME people, LOL!).

By fastasballs

May 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Matthew, Dad to Walter,

Also if the bullpen had not been so pathetic last season he may have had another Cy Young award in his collection. How many times did he leave the game late with a lead last year only to watch the pen give it away, 6-8? If the pen could have held them 3 or 4 times I think he would have taken it home. Never last year did he leave the game trailing & got the win like last night.

By Steve McP

May 10, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

With regard to blocking trades, I thought anybody over a certain age and logevity in mlb could do so? Not sure where I picked this up, I think it was when there was some talk of trading Andruw in the middle of last year.

Tenn Paul, with regard to Gonzalez’s streak, don’t forget to add in those “holds” for the Braves this year when he pitched in the 7th or 8th innings - makes it look even more impressive.

By David-ATL14

May 10, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Lineup for today: 1.Woodward 2.Renteria 3.Jones 4.Jones 5.Francoeur 6.McCann 7.Diaz 8.Wilson 9.Hudson

Let the b*** and moaning begin.

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Edgar’s still sick, scratched from lineup. Originally they had Woodward at 2nd leading off, Kelly getting day off.

Now it’s Kelly leading off, Diaz batting second playing LF, Woodward hitting seventh playing SS, Wilson hitting eighth playing first.

McCann’s catching

By Mets Fans

May 10, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

jobrave - it’s not me moron, that’s what the media are saying about this year’s MVP. How’s it taste? You like it? Prediction Padres 9 Braves 0 today. They are due, and you guys have no power. I might even watch - it will be fun. Enjoy the beating.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

fastasballs

You’re right. I can’t remember the exact number (Shaun may have it) but the Braves bullpen blew the save in somewhere around 8-9 games in which Smoltz had left with the lead in the late innings. Instead of 16-9, if you give him even half of those wins, he would have been somewhere around 20-6. Since no one in the NL had 20 wins (if memory serves) Smoltz should have won easily.

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

I also remember Kyle Davies’ first game was a gem, on the road in Boston

This does deserve a pause when thinking about Lerew. But, there is a slight difference. Davies first start was only a 5 inning effort where he allowed 4 hits and 3 walks. Lerew allowed 2 hits and 2 walks in 6 innings with 7 Ks. The Padres aren’t the offensive force that Boston is, but nevertheless, Lerew’s start was better than Davies. I think Lerew will be able to continue to do well. But we can’t get down on him if he has a bad outing. He is still a 24 year old rookie.

Davies, on the other hand, has had a couple of seasons of disappointment, but we might, might, be turning a corner with this guy.
Consider that, Davies last start was a 6.2 inning outing. He made it deep into the game only allowing 2 runs until that 103rd pitch HR got him yanked in the 7th. The outing before that he retired the last 5 batters he faced in a row (having only one bad inning which pushed him to a pitch count exit). Davies has been slightly improving in his starts. He hasn’t been any where close to the abomination that Mark Redman has been this season. For instance, Davies has given up 5 runs in a game only once. He lasted 4 innings that time. Where as Redman has given up fewer than 5 runs only once when pitching more than 2 innings. He did give up only 4 runs his last outing, but lasted only 1.2 innings.
So it is shaping up very well. We will have Cormier, Lerew and Davies to choose from. Basically, we are beginning to have starting pitching depth. Our bullpen depth is growing as well.

JS was smart to overload on the pen. Trading high with LaRoche was a brilliant move. Packing the pen with 3 closers was a great move. Shedding all the dead weight from the pen was a good move. Soon we will have another couple of major league ready relievers available. These are all good things.
I think the reason Coyler was sent on assignment was because he had some success. He had 6 scoreless outings. The one outing he was scored upon resulted in only 2 runs. He would be an worth a shot for most teams. Putting him through the waiver process means other teams have to sort of “tip their hand” if they want him. It could set up trades in the future or for something bigger (maybe Coyler +1 for a better return) who knows. But I think it was a good move to put Coyler out there. Our bullpen depth is a strength. Testing the waters with Coyler isn’t going to hurt the team.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

SteveMcP:

That’s the 10-5 rule, referring to a player who has 10 years in MLB and 5 years with the same club. That player, like Chipper and Andruw, can block any trade.

Hope this helps.

By choppinmama

May 10, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Matthew, Dad to Walter: add Smoltzie’s dominant post-season play to his body of work and he’s a sure first-ballot HOFer. I’m going to make plans to attend the ceremony for his induction, even if I have to pack my Hover’round!

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Metsfan to what Media are you referring? ESPN,Dayn Perry,Maybe The NY Times?Or maybe Tim McCarver? at least if you are gonna make a case for your ignorant blunderings,have a semi credible source for it!Otherwise come Sept. We will see you IN OUR REAR VIEW MIRRORS! JERK

By caveman22

May 10, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

moots fans why are you posting all this crap like this is a Mets blog?? Are you so desparate for attention or does the Mucks blog have so many morons like you that your not special or unique over there? Your a joke and your also posting under a different name. Your wording is very familiar to a poster that we spanked off this blog recently.

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Matthew: Don’t forget Smoltz’s postseason records. He’s 15-4 right now with a 2.65 ERA as well as his record 194 post season strikeouts (these numbers should increase as we begin to win again). Put that post season record next to 250 wins 154 saves 3,500 Ks at least 1 Cy Young award and the NL single season saves record with 14 consecutive Division Titles and at least 5 NL pennants and it pretty much locks him in for the HOF.

By Lee

May 10, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

According to Around the Horn yesterday Jose Reyes was one Met that did not shave his head. You do what you what when you are the MVP on a team. Got to admit I don’t blame him on either. Stretching it a little too much for me. Please Braves don’t follow this example by a bunch of retards like the Mets.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

choppinmama

Good point. Smoltz is the most dominating postseason pitcher in baseball.

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

meansonny,

53 AB’s may be a lot of pinch-hit AB’s but it’s still not a decent sample size to judge a hitter on.

From 2004-2006 Diaz’s pinch-hit numbers don’t look too good, that’s all I’m saying.

But, as I said, I wouldn’t let that stop me from using Diaz as a pinch-hitter. I would trust any players overall skills/stats over just his pinch-hitting stats when considering using him as a pinch-hitter.

I agree, I like Diaz in a platoon and pinch-hit role. I also wouldn’t mind seeing him as an everyday player if and when Harris cools down.

By TennesseePaul

May 10, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

So, I’ve said this for the past few days and I’ll say it again. Just because Andruw went to Right doesn’t mean he’s going to continue to do it. It’s going to take more than 2 games, 2 hits to show me he’s going the other way with any consistancy.
I’m glad he did, and I think he should continue to do it, but I have a feeling he is going to soon have a hard heart and revert to pulling the ball at all costs.

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

In case you haven’t noticed metsfan,no chop,metroman.I hate the mets as bad as I hated the Reds in the 80’s but with that said at least I respected J.Bench and company,for one reason and one reason only,they did not try to buy Championships,they earned them! which is more than I can say for the sorrya$$ed state of NY baseball!!!!!

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Matthew, Dad to Walter,

I agree. Smoltz is a Hall of Famer.

First ballot? It’s possible given his post-season success. But I don’t think he’s quite in the class with Clemens, Maddux, Glavine or Pedro (but who is?).

I think he’s pretty much already in but if he wins 200 and K’s 3000 (which he may do both this season) I think he’s a sure thing, given his post-season record and success as a reliever.

By GeorgetownKid

May 10, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

McBride pitched 5 innings as a starter last night!

Richmond lost, but he only gave up 1 BB. It is getting harder and harder for Cox to dismiss McBride’s starting.

However, if he were to become a full time starter, we would have quite the plethora of #5 starters (5 of them by my count), but we would still lack a #3 and a #4.

On a completely different note, why is Blanco not considered a bonafide big-league talent? He is putting up great stats in AAA this year, as he did in AA last year, and he is a natural leadoff hitter. I’m not sure what I’m missing, because he seems pretty good to me.

By Efrim

May 10, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Looking inside the numbers, this game doesn’t bode as well as I thought it did. Adrian Gonzalez is 3 for 5 against Hudson with 2 home runs. Wells has a 0.82 ERA at the TED. Oh well, we should still smoke em!!

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

A few things of note, from the Braves Press Pass. If you hear them in the broadcast today, remember, you heard it here first!

Rafael Soriano is NASTY. His ERA is 3.12, but he has only given up runs in two appearances (3 runs to the Nats on 4/11 and 3 runs to the Mets on 4/20-neither of those games were in jeapordy, though). Other than that, he has a 0.00 ERA. Also, with respect to first batters faced, he has retired 14-18 of them, very important in late inning work. For the year, opponents are hitting .133 against him. Pretty filthy.

The Braves have been automatic in close games. When leading after 6 innings, the Braves are 13-1. When leading after seven innings, the Braves are 15-2 (the 2 losses were when Wickman was hurt, I believe). In close games, decided by one or two runs, the braves are 11-6.

Folks, this is a different team than last year’s. I feel sure we are in for a fun ride, similar to 1993 with the Giants. Met fans, shut up and enjoy the ride. Both the Braves and the Mets are in this thing for the long haul. Get used to it, and enjoy it. Pennant races like this year’s do not occur very often.

Go Braves!

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 10, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

DOB says that bloggers are ‘guests’ here on this blog—some of you’s guys aren’t showing your guests from New York very much of that ‘southern hospitality’…y’all…

caveman22—neither is this a moron blog…but you’re still allowed to post here…

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Shaun:

I see your point, but they don’t have divisions within the Hall of Fame. Is he as good as Clemens or Maddux? Hard to tell. I’ve never seen Clemens or Maddux save 154 games. I’ve never seen them bounce back from four surgeries and maintain dominance first as a closer, and then as a starter again. I am yet to be convinced that Pedro is dominant in games that matter. Do you put Pedro in right now? I can’t answer that just yet.

As far as I’m concerned, the ground is equal in the HOF.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Georgetown Kid:

I agree with you. McBride could be a nice 5th starter, but so could Redman (cancel that), Davies, James (at least lately), Villareal, and Cormier. I’d like to see us pick up a Jake Westbrook type of pitcher. In other words, not a dominant #1 or #2 (we can’t afford those), but a reliable vet who can go 6 innings every time out without being shelled. If we could find that type of pitcher, I think we’d have the league won.

Folks, the pinheads at ESPN and other media outlets are still ignoring the Braves. That’s good. When August rolls around and we have a five game lead, then they can jump on the bandwagon. Until then, let’s sneak up on MLB and end up dominant.

World Series in 2007!

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Andruw is never going to get hits consistently because he’s never been a high average hitter.

Andruw never gets a lot of hits in non-BB, non-sac plate apperances (low AVG).

If you’re counting on Andruw to consistently get hits in clutch situations (and all situations), you’re right, he’s not going to do it.

People were complaining earlier this week because AJ is the cleanup hitter and “you pay the cleanup hitter to drive in runs.”

Well, Andruw drives in runs but not because he makes a lot of contact or gets a lot of hits with runners on (or any other time for that matter). He drives in runs because a)a lot of his hits are homers which guarantee he’ll drive in at least one run, and b)he’s been hitting in a good lineup the past few years so a lot of runners are on when he does get hits or when he flies out.

By journalist jimmy smith

May 10, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

well, every few months this journalist gets in trouble with a certain coastal blogger. indeed, this is one of those times. jimmy smith was so taken aback by dob’s booger post yesterday that jimmy smith said, with such unsavory topics this remains a guy’s blog. well, think about it. dob was talking boogers. female, carroll rogers now writes some of the blogs and while carroll rogers has proved to be a fine blog journalist, there has been some danger that discussion of wall colors and furniture placement in the clubhouse will occur. while it has not yet happened, that threat remains. then, good ol’ dob talked boogers. that prompted this journalist to say this remains a guy’s blog. oh, the humanity! carolina lady did not take that comment well. journalist has dispatched baby seal to north carolina to work on a peaceful settlement of differences. baby seal admires madeline albright and condoleeza rice very much and looks forward to dabbling in diplomacy and making peace with carolina lady on behalf of this journalist - also baby seal plans to look at the john deere tractor while visiting. now, the martin ukulele - whatever has happened with this fine musical instrument? journalist recommends grinch package the ukulele and 4-barrell carburetor together and mail to baby seal for repairs to commence upon baby seal’s return from north carolina. now, tony pena, jr is flashing some leather in kansas city and there are raves about tony pena jr’s play at shortstop. unfortunately, tony pena, jr. is hitting only about .225. journalist has rambled but that is because journalist is in trouble right now with carolina lady.

By Shaun

May 10, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Matthew, Dad to Walter,

I totally agree with you. But, as you probably know, some of the writers won’t vote on certain guys for the first ballot if they don’t think they are in that “inner circle” of the best of the HOFers. It’s just stupid to me. A HOFer is a HOFer. In my opinion, if you think a guy deserves to be in, you should vote for him no matter if it’s his first ballot or 10th ballot.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Earlier I said that I wasn’t sure about Pedro. I guess I should retract that statement:

Career W-L of 206-02, 2,998 K, 46 CG, and 17 SHO.

In the postseason, he is 6-2 with a 3.40 ERA. Really not much of a postseason resume, but I’d have to acknowledge him as a HOF. First-ballot? For me, he has to show a couple more years of dominance before I let him in on the first ballot. But again, does it really matter?

By ssiscribe

May 10, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Deadline? Ballgame? Deadline? Ballgame? I’d much rather be at the yard today, but life and work tend to get in the way.

Man, what a perfect day you folks at Turner Field are going to have today. Great pitching matchup, too, with Boomer vs. Huddy. We’ve had two really good pitcher duels each of the past two nights. Think today will be a good one, too.

Dadgum, the —30— is what old-school scribes would put at the end of their stories to signify the end of their stories. Just something I’ve always done, a tip of the hat to those who came before me, so to speak.

Edgar’s out again, as noted above. Good to give Woodward some ABs.

Also wanna agree with the words above about Willie C. Harris. Talk about a big boost this guy has given the ballclub: four stolen bases in a week and a half. Braves only have 12 for the season, and the guy can play a good left field and gives the Braves speed.

OK, almost time. Back to work. Braves on the Internet. Enjoy. The Scribe abides.

—30—

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 10, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

JJS:

I fear you are going to be in the corner for a while over this one. CL is among a handful of classy ladies who frequent the MIB/Braves/Toes Blog, and you are going to have to do your best Dr. Kissinger imitation to bring about a detente.

CL, we miss you already!

By David O'Brien

May 10, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Move it on over to the NEW BLOG

(gonna be bloggin in-game today, per the boss’ request)

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

Okay Guys,I just found the definition of the term Met,over at wikipedia.com it is a genetic disorder that leads to mental retardation,no joking look it up,it’s really there. That just proves my point that all Mets fans are retards!!

By joebrave

May 10, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Huddy looks good so far Sd zip Atl coming up

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 10, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

ssiscribe—if your deadline was that damn important…you wouldn’t be here wasting your time on this blog!…get over yourself…

jjs—maybe the esteemed journalist should have minded his own business, just once—he made his first mistake by assuming that he knows what a woman is thinking…

By Dave

May 10, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

heres what some of the braves are on pace to do this year

K Johnson .289 24HR 94 RBI 132R E Renteria .338 20HR 100RBI 130R C Jones .291 45HR 105RBI 123R A Jones .233 23HR 113RBI 90R B McCann .287 10HR 83RBI 47R J Francoeur .288 24HR 132RBI 80R S Thorman .240 16HR 70RBI 54R

Hudson 18-4 1.83 260IP 170K 52BB Smoltz 22-4 3.25 230IP 188k 65BB

Rafael soriano has already thrown in 18 games this year i hope they dont wear him out this year he is pace to throw 87 innings. thats not good for a reliever who throws 1 inning a game. thorman is looking streaky and Mccanns and Andruws output is look bad, of course mccann has somewhat of an excuse though. I hope andruw comes around soon. look at the #1-3 hitters runs, even with a bum #4 hitter behind them.

By supermne

May 11, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Hi, guys! How are you doing here? I’m New here.

By Steve

May 11, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

DOB, you’re right about the national fan base. Growing up in Utah watching Murph patrol the outfield, while listening the Skip, Pete, Ernie Sr., and Sterling, every night is something I’ll never forget.

Thank God for the satellite so I can still watch the non-TBS games nightly.

See you all in LA and San Diego in July!

By robert

May 12, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Dear Braves fans: Sorry about dressing up Maddux to looke like a banana last nite. A 4 time Cy Young award winner deserves better. But you have to remember we are a border town and sometimes if the air is just right…Well let’s just say your good judgement can get clouded.