Braves

By N8

May 11, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Liked this move when it happened, and like it even more now.

Even if LaRoche goes on to go to the HOF, this was the right move, considereing the weapons still in our lineup, and the lack of bullpen depth last year.

Kudos to JS for pulling the trigger.

By 22oz

May 11, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

12th?

By Shaun

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

I hope LaRoche was never meant to be “The Guy” in Pittsburgh. If he was supposed to do that, I think they got The Wrong Guy.

LaRoche is a very good major league firstbaseman but he’s not a superstar (unless he could somehow put up the same numbers and become a shortstop, secondbaseman, centerfielder or catcher). He’s not the type of guy who should be hitting in the middle of the order for a major league contender with a good lineup.

By Danman

May 11, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Mr. S has a tendency to see this. Anyone, remember Jose Capellan. The biggest mistake I can remember is Jermaine Dye, but even that can be questioned.

By krath

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

This from Jason Stark @ ESPN.com

“I’m starting to think he’s a guy who can’t be one of the best players on a team,” said one scout. “He can be a complementary hitter, a 5- or 6-hole hitter. But he’s not a No. 4 hitter. In Atlanta, people were always worried about Andruw and Chipper, and oh, there’s Adam LaRoche. But in Pittsburgh, the focus is always going to be on him and Jason Bay. And that’s a whole different deal.”

Only time will tell I suppose.

By Wilson

May 11, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I like the move, and while I don’t think JS saw this diaster for LaRoche on the horizon, I think JS knew that LaRoche’s trade value was as high as it was ever going to get.

By rammerjammer

May 11, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

If Adam hits 50 homers, it doesn’t matter. You measure the deal by whether it makes your club better, and clearly Atlanta is better with Gonzalez than they were a year ago without him (and Soriano).

And it’s not that those two have made the difference, but getting them sent a message from JS to his players that he was going to make things right.

That instilled confidence, and guys were ready to get it on from day one and haven’t let up.

By 22oz

May 11, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

If we hadn’t traded LaRoche then we couldn’t have given Redman #19.

By Seymour

May 11, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

I like this trade for Atlanta, but I am still reminded of a quote by Albert Pujols. Albert and Adam apparently played together at some level of minor league ball. I wish I could find it now, but he said something along the lines that Adam was the best hitter that he had ever seen. This is an impressive thing coming from Mr. Pujols. I think Adam will pick it up just fine. I just hope it comes after this series.

By Gustopher

May 11, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Great Blog CR. Pittsburgh sounds great, wish I was there

By 22oz

May 11, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

We are definitely better off after this trade. While our first base offense has taken a step back to where it was during LaRoche’s first and second years, we have a top notch arm in the pen. I have really grown fond of Gonzo, the way he just stands there waiting for the hitter to step in is just awesome.

By gobirds42

May 11, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

true shaun, but he was supposed to be that on THIS pirates team. not a contender just yet, but at least a team expected to make some progress. but he has helped…..the digression of the pirates so far. good trade then, great trade now.

By jed

May 11, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

I was reading the last blog, as a lot of it related to 1b and Thorman, and what to do there. (I’ve posted about this several times—with a ‘no-confidence’ vote on Thorman.) But for the love of God—can someone please explain to me why everyone is so pro-Thorman on this board? He’s a sub-par defensive first baseman, hitting .240 in a platoon! What part of this equation excites you people? I’m serious. Everyone kinda glibly accepts the guy as ‘the answer at 1b’. Some of you are so in love with him you think he ought to be playing every day. Like I said, you play the guy every day and he’ll be hitting .200 a month from now. Are yall gonna be supporting a .200 hitting 1b a month from now just because he hustles? I would urge some re-evaluation, folks….

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

I would not mind it if LaRoach finds his stroke AFTER the Braves leave town. One would not want the Pirates to be gun shy trading with the Braves in the future.

Yes, PNC park is a beautiful place to watch a baseball game. As long as you wait until May to do it. The Buccos seemed to be on the right track the second half of last season. I would not give up on them quite yet.

Let’s hope the Braves don’t take these guys too lightly. Two of three will be okay, it is extremely difficult to sweep a team in their home park.

By Wayne in Utah

May 11, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Hello Carroll! Sorry, no poems today! I have a 5+ hour drive to get back home tonight.

Thanks again last week for the plug. I had a lot of fun with the attention. Any insight from you or Dave as to trade rumors or feelings from within the club as to going after someone this early in the year???

Have a great time in the steel city!

Go get em tonight Kyle! Let’s see some of that potential take hold.

By MEB

May 11, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Got to give ol’ Homeboy credit because this deal was shocking to a lot of us when it was first announced. We just figured that Rochey was just one of the Baby Braves that we would be watching for years. Maybe the Pirates ought to suspend any trades for five years and see what their farm system can provide the big club. My bet is they could do better than management has done with trades.

By geauxbraves2000

May 11, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

I wasn’t really thrilled with trading LaRoche, but I’m happy about the deal now, not for LaRoche struggling, but for JS shoring up a weak bullpen. It’s a different year now, and I’m sure other teams aren’t as giddy as they were when the Braves do call on their pen.

I was able to take a game in at Wrigley Field yesterday, saw LaRoche play. He call still pick it at first base, awesome defender. He also got himself a hit. He seems so laid back in the box though, maybe if he wasn’t so laid back, maybe his offense would pick up.

On another note, I see the Braves are facing yet another LHP tonight. Have the Braves broken some kind of ML record for most lefties faced before the all-star break?

Geaux Braves

By Dirtie Birdie

May 11, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

22OZ, If we hadn’t traded LaRoche then we couldn’t have given Redman #19.

LOL! You gotta a funny, strange mind to even think of that.

By flange1

May 11, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

I agree with Shaun and Jayson Stark, LaRoach is a great guy and a GOOD player. Perfect for the 5 or 6 hole as a compliment to other hitters. I do not see him as a 3 or 4 hitter. He will get better than he is playing now but,

Another great JS trade….

By flange1

May 11, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Well Jed,

Thorman is better than Wilson!

By rammerjammer

May 11, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Hey Jed. I’m not a Thorman apologist, but his minor league career statistics indicate solid success at every level. The Braves as much said so when they dealt Adam; that they had confidence Thorman could do the job.

He’s been on the job six weeks, that’s all. Again, his history shows that at each level there’s a learning curve before he settles in.

I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he kinda scuffs along for awhile and then hits his stride after the All-Star break.

But with the offense we have, there’s no urgency to do anything, so let him play. I do think he’d get better faster if Bobby wouldn’t platoon him, but that’s another story.

By Wayne in Utah

May 11, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

Jed The reason I like Thorman is that he looks like a real player. He has taken a while to adjust at each level of the minors, and I suspect he will be a 260+ hitter with some real pop.

I am not sure what games you are watching, but on the few TBS broadcasts I get, he is holding his own at 1B. No LaRoche, but certainly not another Billy Buckner.

So, some of us see some REAL potential. Most good major league hitters can hit pitchers from both sides of the plate. I would love to see him get as many AB’s early in the year as possible. If he is still hitting 220 at the break, then maybe we made a mistake.

BTW, go check the stats on what Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt did in his first year, and also see what a guy like Matt Williams did in his first years with the SF Giants. Sometimes it takes time.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

jed I am not sure of your expectations of Thorman but he is not a bad baseball player nor a poor fielder. He is what he is, a first year player in the Majors and his numbers reflect that. He does not look bad at the plate and many of his outs have been hard hit balls at people.

Very few first baseman are as good as Pujols or will be but Thorman is putting up decent numbers for a rookie. It is Wilson who is under performing but unfortunately Duane Ward decided to sign with Chicago in the off season.

Let’s wait until July to make an honest assessment. The same should be true for LaRoache. He has often been a slow starter. Let’s not wake him up until the Braves leave town.

By Willy Wally

May 11, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

Yeah, ever since you showed Wayne all that love, he has pretty much been absent from the blog - you made his head too big - rumor has it that he has been doing a barnstorming autograph tour of Wyoming because of all the newfound fame you threw at him. But at least we have proof of life out of him - I was worried he was going AWOL-ly Aybar on us. The Grinch pulled a Chipper on Wayne and said that he did not even realize Wayne was still on the team.

By tokyobrave

May 11, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

I agree w/ N8. I don’t think for a second that LaRoche is as bad as he is right now, but don’t believe at all that he is as consistently good as his numbers were last year. He will be a 265 hitter with 20 HR’s and about 65 RBI’s - at best. solid, but not 1B position for the Pirates solid. We HAD to have better releif pitching. Period. This was the right move no matter what. I think we all get on the Braves front office too much, but one thing is clear - with very few exceptions, the moves they make are in fact forward-moving deals for the club. They seem to know when a guy has peaked, or over reached long term ability - or when they are not good for the club house (Estrada). This is one of those deals. BTW, look for the Lillibridge kid soon (couple of years)some where on Turner Field.

By Shaun

May 11, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

gobirds42,

If he was supposed to be that, who thought he was supposed to be that? Hopefully not the Pirates’ management.

Yes, he’s a middle-of-the-order guy for the Pirates; but I hope the Pirates didn’t expect to get LaRoche then all of the sudden become contenders. Or expect LaRoche alone to make the difference.

Yes, LaRoche has struggled but the Pirates were last in runs scored last season. So far they’re third from the bottom this season. It would take more than a career-year from Adam LaRoche to improve the Pirates’ offense.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 11, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Okay, some stats to consider (I like the Braves Press Pass-it tells me what Chip and Joe will be talking about tonight). If they mention any of this, rememebr you heard it here first.

The Braves lead the Majors in 2-out RBI (84). 2nd place is held by the Stankees (77). Atlanta’s .292 AVG with two outs is also the best in baseball (Boston is next at .286). The Braves .298 AVG with 2 outs and RISP is best in the bigs (Mariners and A’s are next at .284). The Braves have been CLUTCH, friends.

With a win tonight, Bobby Cox will tie Sparky Anderson for 4th on the all-time managerial list (2,194). His 495 games over .500 ranks him 3rd all-time (2,193-1698). But he’s a terrible manager…hee haw, etc.

The Braves are 10 games over .500. That DID NOT happen last year. The best the Braves did was 4 games over, and they were there on May 28th.

The Braves bullpen leads the majors in wins (10), winning percentage (.833; 10-2), and fewest home runs allowed per nine innings pitched (.42; 5 HR/106.2 IP).

We’re good, blogophiles. Enjoy the ride.

By Tom C

May 11, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Just give it a year and LaR will be sitting the old Braves bench again. They will run him out of town. That is the genius of this deal. We get Gonzo, Lilli and Bubba back.

By eric the elder

May 11, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Calling Pittsburgh the “steel city” is fine because that’s what they call themselves, but it is a misnomer. Take a drive from Youngstown, through Sharon, Bethlehem, and on to Pittsburgh and see the rusted hulks that were once steel mills. America doesn’t make much steel anymore. America doesn’t make much of anything.

Sorry to get sort of off-topic.

By True Braves Fan

May 11, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Liked this move when it happened, and like it even more now.

Even if LaRoche goes on to go to the HOF, this was the right move, considereing the weapons still in our lineup, and the lack of bullpen depth last year.

Kudos to JS for pulling the trigger.

AMEN, N8, Now if we can just get Thorman into the lineup every day, or use Diaz as the right handed first baseman and call up another 4th outfielder from the minors…Maybe Pittsburg would like to have Craig Wilson back……………..

By Shaun

May 11, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

flange1,

I think the Pirates got a good player and may end up getting equal value for Gonzalez when all is said and done but LaRoche would barely make a dent in the Pirates’ run scoring total if he had a career year.

This is the perfect example of the kinds of moves that keep the Pirates at the bottom of the standings.

They should have move Gonzalez for a couple of quality players in their early 20’s not a player in his prime right now.

http://baseballtruth.com/extrainnings/extrainnings_080806.htm

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 11, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Oh, by the way, Tim Hudson is 8 for 8 in quality starts. Between he an Smoltz, the guys have 15 of 16 possible. No one else has more than one QS, but the Braves are still 19 out of 34 in quality starts. Not too shabby.

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 11, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Oh, one other stat. Three Braves players are in the NL Top 5 in 2 out RBI, #1 Jeff Francoeur (20), #2 Kelly Johnson (15), and #5 Edgar Renteria (11).

Is it just me, or is Edgar being undervalued? He is a hitting machine and playing good defense, and he is clutch. He has the veteran presence, so let’s cut Wilson.

By NYC

May 11, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

America doesn’t make much steel anymore. America doesn’t make much of anything.

But we sure do buy more than anyone else! Yep, the good ole American way..we sell our steel business to the Chinese, and now they’re selling it back to us for twice what it used to!! Notice how much more we’re paying for stell triple-blade razors these days? I digress.

By rammerjammer

May 11, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Yo Eric. Just today, it was announced that a STEEL MILL will be built just outside Mobile, Ala.

Sure it’s a German company, but the workers will be American (not counting illegals, but that’s another story). Some of the steel will go to automobile assembly plants, also in Alabama.

There’s still stuff made in America…just not as much made in Pennsylvania.

By flange1

May 11, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I agree completely. The Pirates are one of those teams that just don’t get it. And JS does his best with teams like that.

Was it a fair trade, I agree that LaRoach is a quality player, but I think Pittsburgh gave up too much for him. As you say we will see in a couple of years.

I am not so sure that the discussion about letting Diaz platoon with Thorman for awhile might have its merits. I am not a big platoon fan, I would start Thorman and Harris for a bit and see how it goes, and let Diaz pinch hit, but BC loves platoons!

I wonder if Wilson is hurt? Maybe he has an ingrown toenail????

By jed

May 11, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

With all due respect folks, if you’re thinking Thorman is gonna turn into Mike Schmidt or Matt Williams, I think I’ve diagnosed the problem: Delusional Wishful Thinking Disorder. Follow me here:

I think the Braves wanted to move LaRoche to establish a killer bullpen—which they’ve done. But I think they realized they’d have to make-do at 1b, because of budget restrictions. To justify a focus on pitching over offense (Gonzo for Adam), they sold the fans an over-hyped Scott Thorman. Frankly, I watched Thor in Richmond and then Atlanta and have yet to see the cause for excitement. The Braves were bluffing. It was a calculated move to sell tickets to a fan base that probably would never understand the complexities involved in why you trade offense for defense.

Sure enough, Thorman never got a chance to start everyday like they assured us he would in the off-season. He immediately was platooned. And why? Because they were bluffing! And because he’s not a good first baseman, and not a great hitter—again, he’s only hitting .240 in a platoon. (FYI, that’s what Langerhans hit last year in a platoon. He however was a great defensive player. Still, yall were screaming for his head too.)

And it’s true that La Roche didnt hit much his first season. But, unlike Thor, he played a top-shelf first base, and possessed a stately swing. You could easily see the potential. Thor on the other hand looks like Frankenstein with a club in his hand. Clutzy. Everytime I watch him, I hear his internal monologue: Me Thor! Me hit ball hard! Me run hard! Hit Ball. Um.

We can go on forever with this, I’m sure. But you’ll see eventually. And you can quote me on it.

By Alan

May 11, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Good post, Carroll. I feel bad for LaRoche, and I hope he turns it around after the Braves leave town. Even if he were hitting well now, I’d say the trade is a good one. Everyone knows the Braves’ most glaring weakness last year was the bullpen, and JS went out and turned it into a strength. No one can argue with that. Plus, I believe Brent Lillibridge is going to be a star. It may not be in Atlanta, unfortunately, with the glut of young infielders (Johnson, Prado, Escobar, Campbell, Pope, et al). He very likely could be part of another JS “steal” in a year or two.

By Chop Chop

May 11, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Well, Pirate fans shouldn’t be too worried about LaRoche. He’s a career .184 hitter in April, but .270, .263, .298, .288 and .304 are his career batting averages in May, June, July, August and September. As the weather heats up, he heats up. My guess is that he’ll end up around .270-.275, 25 HRs and 80+ RBI. In other words, he’ll give the Pirates something they haven’t had for a long time at first: a guy who can actually be a run producer and provide Gold Glove-caliber D.

By choppinmama

May 11, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

CR: I’ll bet the trade didn’t involve the feeling that Adam’s performance was about to bottom-out in the upcoming season, but was configured more towards the idea that we needed pitching and LaRoche was a talented guy that the Pirates could plug right in.

It’s unfortunate that Pittsburgh immediately made him “the man” that was going to hit the field and solve all their problems for this season. I feep his inability to perform at the level we all saw last year is more mental that physical. After all, here’s a guy who’s had a terrific last year in Atlanta, was comfortable and friendly with the rest of the team and his coach, and very much at home in ATL with his young family. Add his attention problem to the shock of the trade, and the pressure to “be the man” has to be worse and worse with each non-productive at-bat.

Yeah, yeah, these guys are supposed to be professional, and yeah, he’s been around baseball all his life, but the trade had to be a huge shock to him personally and professionaly. Not a great morale builder to get traded from the Braves to the Pirates. Ouch!!

Just give him a little more time to get settled in, get his mind right and his talent will come to the forefront. Hope the fans will be a little more patient with him and stifle those boos.

Of course - I don’t want any of this resurrection of talent to occur this Fri Sat or Sun!

Maybe ol’ Hoss can cheer him up a bit this weekend the numerous times #10 will be visiting 1st base in the series.

By HP

May 11, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

I think this was a good trade by both ball clubs. Trades are made to make each team better. Of course the braves look much better than last year. While, the Pirates seem to be hanging in there. But I do think that Adam LaRoche will be a good player and put up decent numbers. He may be on pace to hit 15 homers, but I can assure you that he will at least hit 25 to 30 homeruns. He is known to be a slow starter in the past. His batting averages by month for past three years. March/April: .210 May: .271 June .263 July .298 August .288 September .303 October .333. In other side, Gonzalez is just the pitcher that we needed in our bullpen. He’s got a strong arm and throws perfect pitches in crucial situation. He is guy who has been a successful in a closer role so far into his career. He will turn out to be our closer for the future. His got a career ERA of 2.26. Not a bad pitcher to have in our team for many and many up coming years.

By Novice Ned

May 11, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Isn’t LaRoche a slow starter, much like Renteria is a fast starter? He’ll pick it up and ultimately both teams will benefit from the trade. How is the minor leaguer we traded performing for Pittsburgh?

By brent a.

May 11, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Carroll, I think you’re onto something when you mention the “holes in Adam’s swing.”

They’ve always been there. Only now, it appears that pitchers are no longer getting suckered into trying to pitch this guy away.

Pitch him in. Occasionally, he’ll connect and make you regret it, but for the most part, high & tight is Adam’s achilles heel. That big, unorthodox swing looks beautiful when he connects; but, when you pitch him right, LaRoche is an easy out.

By flange1

May 11, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Jed,

I hear what you are saying, but I really hope you are wrong. Thorman has hit well at every monor league level and I think he will at the Major league level as well.

Did anyone see where rumors are suggesting that the Twins move Mauer from catcher to another position to keep his bat in the lineup and help reduce injuries? The Twins said NO, but an interesting comp to McCann and Salty.

By yknot

May 11, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

I think LaRoche will be just fine. A good 1st baseman and team contributor. Just like he was in Atlanta. Pittsburg will need to get use to his cold Aprils. They happen every year.

By NYC

May 11, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

No question this was a good trade. Look at the results? There are a lot of teams struggling out there because of their bullpens, not because they don’t have a productive first baseman. If Thor, (or whomever) doesn’t work out, there are many out in the market that could come and take his place.

Come mid-season when the contenders come knocking to pick some meat off the bones (Yankees, Red Sox et al) they will be offering premiums for available relievers..the Braves, if they’re contending (and I believe they will) won’t have to worry about that this year.

By Jimbo

May 11, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Hey Jed…you make good points but you lost me when you talk about Roach’s stately swing. Are you kidding me? I see a swing with lots of holes to pitch to.

By NYC

May 11, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Actually, I take back what I wrote about teams offering “premiums” because that term is usually reserved for free agent signings. I still like the Braves being solid in the bullpen and not having to mortgage the farm to bring any major league talent to bolster the bullpen.

By 3trees

May 11, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this

Carroll - PNC is a really nice park and its proximity to Downtown is really great. My wife grew up there and remembers the “old days” of perpetual smoke, but its a pretty nice city now.

The LaRoche deal. Well, like most, we’ll have to see. I don’t even want to say it, but any of the players involved could get hurt, the other(s) could excell or s#$k. Right now it looks great for the Braves. I always thought that Adam would be another streaky hitter with that swing of his. Yep, its got a lot of holes and takes a while to get going. He’ll have his times (afer we’ve left, hopefully). Very good glove man, though.

I’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thor’s glove so far and didn’t he start a 3-6-4(3) DP the other night with a good throw? He’s much stiffer looking than LaRoche, but doesn’t mean he can’t get it done at 1st. The bat? Too early to tell. He doesn’t get cheated on his swings. =)

Before I go too far - Go Braves!

By Kentavo

May 11, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Steel mills aside, is there actually anybody left in Pennsylvania? I think they all moved here (I’m in Myrtle Beach). All the Steelers fans I know are from W.V., Western Md., and Ohio, so I don’t believe that people actually live in Pennsylvania. The people I know from the Philly area live in N.J. and Delaware.

By T 2 the D

May 11, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

A toog for Thor, more meds for Laroche. Good trade for both.

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Dang Jed, lay off on Thorman. Nobody said this guy was going to come in and be Mark Teixera. All we said was that he could at least put up a .260/20/70 line if he played everyday. And IMO, he would be this year if he wasn’t platooning. How about you get on Davies for his short-comings and lack of quality starts since coming up in 2005; his lack of development is hurting the team WAAAAAAAY more than Thorman’s .240 batting average.

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

In response to your blog Carroll, I am with you when you said: “But what I want to know is if this deal is going to look good for the long haul. Is it going to be one of those trades where we say how in the world did John Schuerholz see all that coming?”

I believe 100% this will be the story. I NEVER liked LaRoche and I have this feeling that he was never a favorite of Cox or Scheurholz either. I guarantee you JS was doing dances during the second half of last year as LaRoche was tearing it up… He could finally trade him and get quality in return. I mean people, lets face it, LaRoche has had 3 months in his 3 year career where he warranted being traded for a reliever like Mike Gonzalez. I called it a GREAT trade when it happened, and it’s turning out to be exactly that…

By AZBravoFan

May 11, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Jed, back off on Thorman man. I think when all is said and done he’ll probably have numbers similar to LaRoche’s 1st season which would be serviceable. And if Craig Wilson doesn’t wake up, he may still get that everyday job. Encouraging to me is that he hits the ball hard to the opposite field, something even our cleanup hitter still has trouble with. As for defense, I haven’t seen anything to make me think he’s a liability. He’s actually made some nice digs down there. And he hustles on every play. He may not be the second coming of Pujols, but he’s certainly no Rico Brogna either.

By mariner

May 11, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

http://www.sabernomics.com/sabernomics/index.php/2007/05/dont-worry-about-andruw-jones/#comments

I thought this was interesting about Andruw.

By meansonny

May 11, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

I think the platoon is good for Thor. I do think he’d be struggling a lot more if he was playing everyday. That said, I see LOTS of potential. This guy is worth being patient for.

The problem is that the other half of the platoon isn’t going to cut it. Bobby will give another month to let things figure themselves out. Mid to late June will start to see othe options appear.

To stand up for the Pirates in the LaRoche deal… Their fans still seem to be comfortable in their pen (Marte and co.). And LaRoche’s slow start is nothing that couldn’t have been predicted with him.

By BosnianBaller

May 11, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

pirates will get the better of the trade if we don’t lock up gonzales for the next 3 or 4 years.

By caveman22

May 11, 2007 5:55 PM | Link to this

Great matchup tonight obviously would be Gonzalez pitching to Laroche in the 8th / 9th inning with the game on the line or at least close enough to matter. If Murphy’s law holds then LaRoche would probably go deep like Betemit did!! LOL

I’m sure Shaun can give us the mathematical probability and/or Laroche vs. Gonzalez in Sabermetric terms.

I prefer to just watch and enjoy!!

DOB

What’s the skinny on the Toe Surgery — Was it the whole nail removed or partial nail??

The blog awaits the anwser…..

By JEB

May 11, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

LaRoche is batting 4th - he never did well batting 4th! Look at his stats when he was with the Braves batting 4th vs. batting 5th & 6th. Batting cleanup is a completely different at bat than any other in the line-up. Thor is doing GREAT at 1B. Check out the numbers on his opportunities with NO ERRORS!!

By JEB

May 11, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

LaRoche is batting 4th - Check out his numbers when he batted 4th for the Braves vs. when he batted 5th or 6th. It’s a whole different world batting clean-up than it is in any other place in the line-up. Thor is GREAT at 1b. Check out his munbers for how many opps. he has had WITHOUT AN ERROR!

By Mets Fans

May 11, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Boo-hoo! Mets fans get on our blog and say mean things. Sniffle. LOL!!!!!! What a bunch of nancies.

By bergian

May 11, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

The Pirates are 15-18 with LaRoche not hitting. They will at least be a .500 team when he starts hitting.

And, the pirates have very good pitching folks, so don’t go a b*tching if we don’t tear the cover off ball in Pittsburgh, they ain’t the nationals!

By Brian O'Brien

May 11, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t think there’s any question this was the right deal for the Braves, and they may not be done reaping the rewards. They now have an embarassment of riches in the bullpen. What if the Braves trade Wickman (who is on a one year contract) at mid season for a 1st baseman, left fielder or starting pitcher? Not saying it will happen, but it’s something to think about, and it became a possibility because of the flexibilty they got from the LaRoche deal.

By bergian

May 11, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

We really need to rest Soriano! He is on pace to pitch in 88 games this year. He has never pitched in more than 53 games in a season. 60 innings is tops. If I read about it, I forget, what arm problems did he have that kept him from pitching more than 10 innings in 2004-05???

By Fred from CT

May 11, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

mets fans go hop on the 7 train

By Lew

May 11, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Well, I said well before the season started that the Marlins young pitching staff would end up injured due to overuse last season. I specifically mentioned Johnson and Sanchez, who are already on the DL. They just added Henry Owens to the ranks of the injured children. Cole Hamels of the Phillies is the only one I mentioned that’s still pitching. His time will come. Seems I predicted something about Mets’ pitching, too. El Duque is already down. Chan Ho is gone. Who’s next?

By Send Money

May 11, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

No doubt Gonzo makes this team better.We may look back in ten years and have a different view, but without a crystal ball it looks like a no brainer (my favorite).I see the ajc poll is over 93% in favor, I guessed 70% before looking at the results so to you 6.7 out of 100 contrarians, what’s your problem ?

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

McCann starting at Catcher again tonight! Can’t believe it; thought Mr. Platoon(Cox) was for sure going to give Salty the start with Duke on the mound…

By Baby Seal

May 11, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

Note to jjs: negotiations with Carolina Lady continue, not sure of outcome. (You really stepped in it this time, boss! whew!)

Jimbo, Adam’s swing? Those aren’t holes; that’s filigree!

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 11, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Glad we didn’t get Roy Halladay, as was suggested (albeit jokingly). He is out 4-6 weeks with appendicitis, per ESPNNEWS.

By bergian

May 11, 2007 6:59 PM | Link to this

Lew, it’s true that the marlins Sanchez and Johnson are injured , but Henry Owens, while a rookie, is 28 no spring chicken in other words! ;)

Justin Verlander would seem a very likely guy to have arm troubles having to pitch many innings during the season, all the way thru the world series. But, still seems to be aok, so far.

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

And for everyone bangin’ on Thorman, how about you just relax and give him some time to develop before we bury the guy. I mean, just look at our team as it is currently constructed. I believe 6 out of the 8 regulars that have started on a consistent basis this season came up through our organization. Don’t you think they (scouting dept., player development dept, minor league coaches, Scheurholz) have a pretty good idea of who can be a major league ball player? The Braves organization (IMO) is and has been for the last 15 years the BEST at developing players. I mean dang, give them the benefit of the doubt and give Thorman some time…

By eric the elder

May 11, 2007 7:00 PM | Link to this

Don C, completely agree. In fact I was surprised not to see Salty against Boomer.

By John Adcox

May 11, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

Best sports photo/headline combo of the year:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/articles/2007/05/11/yankeeswanghithardby_rangers/

Bwaaaa ha ha ha!

By HP

May 11, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Way to go Kelly?

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Speaking of McCann, am I the only one who is worried about his power? Two home-runs on the season as those came on the 1st and 2nd days of the season. In other words, McCann has exactly 0 Home-Runs in his last 93 at-bats…

By choppinmama

May 11, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

KJ does it again. Woo hoo! And, Renteria is back. OK, time to enjoy and will blog at ya’ later.

BTW - it’s been so smoky here due to the fires - on the FL panhandle,6 miles from the coast - haven’t set foot outside all day.

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this

Wow, what an extremely lucky first inning for Duke. 3 very hard hit balls and a lead-off double amount to nothing… One things for sure though, we will be scoring some runs tonight!

By Nostradumba$$

May 11, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

While eating a peach resently I swallowed the pit.I have in the past found this a good way to scrub my colon,on this occasion however it lodged in my throat,cutting off oxygen and rendered me unconscious.While in this state I experienced what I beieve to be visions of things to come.Most of these glimpses are not relevant to this blog ( apocalyptic wars, etc ) so I won’t boor you with them.Here’s a partial list of those relating to the Braves. While convalecent Wickman decides to follow his boyhood dream and immediately retires and moves to Montana to become a bear wrangler. Bobby Cox has a change of mind and signs a 30 year contract that stipulates in the event of his death he is to be stuffed in a sitting position and put in the Braves dugout.Soriano becomes inraged when a beat writer looks at him, he then puts a curse on the writer,rendering him incapable of remembering arcane song lyrics,for which we will all be eternally grateful. more to come

By superman

May 11, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Is there something wrong with the color on my tv Whats up with the bucs red jerseys?????????

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

DANG! We are hitting this guy hard, but right at people!

By DonCoburleone

May 11, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

Later y’all, might hop on here later tonight… But now I gotta go watch my Braves and Ducks! Bring the cup to SoCal baby!!!!

By Nostradumba$$

May 11, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

That’s as good a catch as I’ve ever seen, while awake anyway.

By james

May 11, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

what a catch

By eric the elder

May 11, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Davies was down in the 1st and got ground balls. In the 2nd, he was up and two catches against the right field wall. Hope he learned something.

By joebrave

May 11, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

I told you so,I said it before the trade,during the trade and after the trade,watered down pitching makes any hitter look good but LaRoche is not a good hitter,never was never will be J.S. fleeced Pitt.

By Greg in TN

May 11, 2007 7:48 PM | Link to this

Evening one and all…

Enjoy the ballpark Carroll. PNC is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to watching the national pastime.

I believe LaRoche will get it together. There’s a big difference from being the 4th or 5th best offensive option to #2. The Pirate faithful have placed a lot of expectations on him and I know they have to be disappointed with the situation to this point, but none more than LaRoche.

Outstanding catch by AJ in the 2nd robbing Nady I believe it was. Davies has been walking the tightrope to this point. I agree with Eric, need to keep the ball down, especially in this ballpark.

We’re zipping right along at the old ballpark tonight. Already through three.

By Bob, journalist

May 11, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Stormy night in Nashville … can’t even tape the game with electricity going on and off … enjoy!

By Greg in TN

May 11, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Hang in there Bob. It’s been a noisy early evening outside if Knoxville as well. Quiet here for the moment.

Folks we dodged a bullet there with Chipper from the looks of things. There could have been all kinds of bad outcomes from that other than having Chipper standing on third base right now while B-Mac hits.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Man, what a scary play….

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Dang… Another double play…

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

Is Chipper game or what? he had the presence of mind to reach out for the base after that collision.It’s time to say that McCann is off his rhythm at the plate,hopefully he’ll come around soon.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

Ground ball hits not withstanding, Davies looks pretty good tonight….

Time to strike out Adam…

By Carroll Rogers

May 11, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

it is beautiful here greg, even better from the inside of the park looking out (as opposed to the walk across the bridge looking in.) we are pretty high up here so the players look like little mice but it’s a small price to pay.

awkward fall by chipper and he’s ok. not bad for a supposed injury-prone 35-year-old. looked like a football play with no pads. nothing to cushion chipper’s awkward fall.

here’s adam laroche based loaded nobody out. you knew this was going to happen.

By N8

May 11, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

I’m of the firm belief that we don’t really miss Furcal’s inconsistant approach in the leadoff spot. When he was “on” he was dominating, when he wasn’t, he was brutal.

But after watching Furcal play defense last week, the difference in range between him an Renteria is pretty big. Renteria is a fine defensive SS, very consistant. But his range, arm and flair is mediocre at best when compared to Furcal.

By eric the elder

May 11, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

Wilson = 2 Ks. Thor could do worse?

By True Braves Fan

May 11, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

CRAIG WILSON, 2 AB; 2K. HOW LONG DO WE BRAVES FANS HAVE TO ENDURE THIS??? SO THORMAN CAN’T HIT LEFTIES, WILSON CAN’T HIT ANYBODY SO FAR!!!!!!!!!!!!

By N8

May 11, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone

“Speaking of McCann, am I the only one who is worried about his power?”

I’m not worried about his power at all. I am however worried about his finger. Since “the bunt attempt” he is 8 for 41 (.195) with only 5 RBI.

As far as the Braves overall power outage in the last week or so. NOTHING could be more encouraging to me than to see this team scoring runs and WINNING without the benefit of hitting a ton of HR’s.

As I was much more worried earlier in the year when all we were doing to score runs, was hitting HR’s. The power will eventually come back. But this stretch of games should show the Braves hitters that they don’t need to HACK everytime they’re up at the plate.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

N8 Sometimes you just have to move on. Will not disagree with your assessment of Renteria’s defensive prowess but there are some kids on the way that will make you say Ralphie who…

By fastasballs

May 11, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

Does this game seem like very other one played the last two weeks? Keep it close, go ahead late with some clutch hitting & let the pen finish it off.

Davies looks alright so far.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Power shortage over….

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Got to hand it to Nady for courage though

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Wheels coming off for the Buccos

By Greg in TN

May 11, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Nate I’m right there with you on Furcal. Really thought his approach at the top of the order was not what we needed. He was too fast to be swinging for the fences as much as he did.

Back-to-back from AJ (with Chipper aboard) and Frenchy. Got to give Nady a tip of the cap for trying to go after that ball Chipper hit and almost got it if it weren’t for hitting the wall and having it bounce out.

By NewYorkBravesFan

May 11, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Way to go Andruw! Great catch and now a big homer. We needed that. Now Davies has a chance to get the win. I’d love to see him pitch 7 or 8 innings, and rest the bullpen.

By parks

May 11, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

freakin sweet

By Greg in TN

May 11, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Freddy Sanchez was very Roger Dorn-esque on Diaz’s base hit.

By Chris

May 11, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Laroche can’t hide anymore. There are no Andruws, Chippers, McCanns or Francoeurs on that time. Dude has Bay. That’s it. He’s screwed.

By eric the elder

May 11, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Hope that settles the Wilson/Thor issue.

By NewYorkBravesFan

May 11, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

Can anyone explain to me why Thorman is not the everyday first baseman? He doesn’t rake, but at least he gets a hit every once in a while. And who knows what he’ll do when he gets the chance to play.

By BossLady

May 11, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Craig Wilson should be released.

By parks

May 11, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

hopefully the laroche bashing doesn’t hurt us right here

By NO CHOP ZONE

May 11, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

While the braves are playing a triple A team the Mets are winning 4-2 against the team with the best record in baseball.

By NO CHOP ZONE

May 11, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Make that 5-2 Mets

By N8

May 11, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this

Gil In Mechanicsville

I’m not so much complaining about Renteria (who has been very steady for us and far from disappointing defensively), but more so PRAISING Furcal’s range and arm.

Similar to Andruw, I believe that I took Furcal’s range and gun for granted. It’s just funny to be “missing” Furcal’s defense, since he was an error machine when he first came up.

By Mets Fans

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

That was a beauty of a 6th, but my only question…why not send Diaz with 2 out and Davies coming up. I mean if it was Hampton or a Dontrelle Willis okay…but Davies? I’ve got to think you’ve got a greater chance of a bad throw to the plate than Kyle turning into the splendid splinter.

By N8

May 11, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE

“While the braves are playing a triple A team the Mets are winning 4-2 against the team with the best record in baseball.”

You’re so right, I’ve been saying it for weeks. The Braves have only beaten SH*TTY teams. Couldn’t agree with you more.

Hey? Aren’t the Braves 4-2 against you guys this year? Ooops. I guess that just further proves my point.

BTW: I’ll keep repeating this phrase, until the Muts have a winning record against the Braves, since you keep coming here and talking trash. :-)

By eric the elder

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

BossLady, the argument against releasing Wilson is that we can’t just let him go when we’re paying him $2 million. I’ve never understood that logic. The $2 million is gone whether he plays or not. If he’s a drag on the team, then get someone up here who isn’t. Playing him doesn’t save the team $2 million.

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

All of a sudden the lower part of the rotation looks promising.If Lerew comes through with Davies pitching well, we’ve got a pretty complete group of starters,even if James doesn’t return to last year’s form.

By N8

May 11, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

BossLady

“Craig Wilson should be released.”

You seem to have forgotten to “finish” your sentence/thought. Let me do it for you.

Craig Wilson should be released…..into a pool of piranahs.

OK, that might be a little harsh. Let’s just say I agree with you.

I wonder what Brian Jordan is doing these days?

By serbok

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

let Davies have a shot at the 8th~ he gets thru it// bring in Gonzo~ he gives up 1 hit// bring in gonzo~and if its 3 up 3 down after that let gonzo pitch the 9th~ but we prob will see yates in 8th and gonzo in 9th

By Gil In Mechanicsville

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

Sometimes players with great range get charge with errors trying to make plays that those not so gifted let go by as hits.

Not fair but I have little influence over official scorers…

Looking at some of the replays… Almost could call this the “body bag” game.. OUCH!!!!!

By TennesseePaul

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

DonC: So you gotta like what we’re seeing from Davies. Since that 4 run inning Davies has been pretty solid.

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

Eric Good reasoning on Wilson.The question should be, would the team be better letting him go and bringing Jones or somebody else up.As you point out the money’s spent either way.

By serbok

May 11, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

no predicting bobby~ guess im tryin to say give soriano the night off~~~~~~~~~~~

By Greg in TN

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

Ouch No Chop.

Of course, you guys went 5-4 against that “triple A” team last year. Double ouch.

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

They’re talking about Mack’s win record for managers.It may not be broken but the one record that absolutely will never be broken is Cy Young’s wins record for a pitcher,the game has changed too much.It will stand forever.

By N8

May 11, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

If Yates can be consistantly THIS GOOD, and Wickman is healthy when he comes back, that gives us a pretty big 1-2-3-4 punch in the bullpen.

Like I said though……“IF!”

By Send Money,

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

I like bringing in Yates,he’s the guy other than Gonzo and Soriano with top stuff.If he can gain consistent control.Nash is from Victoria not Saskatoon,well he was born in S Africa and raised there. If you guys get a chance,take your woman there,they’ll love it.

By Send Money,

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

I was refering to Victoria BC as a great place to take a woman.

By NO CHOP ZONE

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

The braves could win the head to head series with the Mets as long as we win the division…..I know it’s hard for you but you have to look at the big pictured N8.

By N8

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

Agreed Send Money. That and the complete games by a pitcher. Check out this list:

http://www.baseball-almanac.com/pitching/picomg1.shtml

Are you frickin’ kidding me?? 815 Games Starter with 749 complete games!!!

THAT will never be broken as well. In fact, there may NEVER be a total of 749 complete games at the rate pitchers go nowadays.

By ernesto

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

I’m on record as being a Roachy fan, but Gonzo getting the DP…the homeboy upstairs must have been smiling.

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

damn what a pen !!!!

By Greg in TN

May 11, 2007 9:43 PM | Link to this

Nice save by Gonzalez in the ninth. BC ties Sparky Anderson on the all time win’s list. A good outing by Kyle Davies. Homers by AJ and Chipper.

A nice Friday night at the ballyard.

By Greg in TN

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

LOL

Homers by AJ and Frenchy that is. Was wanting to say that Chipper came out of that scary play at third without injury. Also a solid outing by Tyler Yates tonight.

By Najeh Davenpoop

May 11, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this

LaRoche was getting booed just as loudly here at around the same time last year, for his ADD play at first base against the Nationals. 32 home runs later, all was forgiven. There’s a lot more season to be played. He’ll pick it up sooner or later. I gotta say though, after that double play in the 9th, those boo birds were pretty loud considering that the ballpark was maybe 1/4 full.

As for the trade, it depends. If I’m not mistaken, Mike Gonzalez is playing on a 1-year contract and is arbitration eligible. Will the Braves ante up to keep him? Will Thorman, Saltalamacchia, or someone else in the organization step up and fill LaRoche’s shoes at first base? It’s a good trade in the short-term, but the Braves have to step up and lock Gonzalez up to a long-term deal at some point.

By N8

May 11, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE

“The braves could win the head to head series with the Mets as long as we win the division…..I know it’s hard for you but you have to look at the big pictured N8.”

I see the “big picture”. Or have you forgot that we won the division for 14 years before you guys took the title last year? In fact, in 1997 we won the division by 9 games over Florida (while going 4-8 h2h against them), you guys finished 13 games back (and we went 5-7 against you). So yeah….I “get” that a team can win the division while NOT winning certain head to head machups.

But you keep acting like we’re beating scrub teams. Which we are. The Mets just happen to be one of the “scrub” teams as well. :-)

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Carroll - Thanks for the Roach Post. I have been following his painful path this season. I don’t think any of us wanted him to experience this sort of frustration. He is too nice a guy, and I think too good of a player, to twist in ingnominy as he has done this year. It is sad his own fans have booed him. I don’t think any fan should boo home town players (unless one is a Phillies fan, where booing one’s own player is a way of life), under any circumstances, ever. I have never booed an Atlanta Brave, and never will. I hope LaRoche pulls out of his slump, after we leave town.

Andruw has shortened up his stance, somewhat. He is now stepping into pitches - and low and behold, he hits a homer without his right knee crashing to the ground - refreshing to see - we know TP is happy, as is the Braves Nation.

Watching Druw make plays in CF tonight only confirms what I, and many others, have advocated here and in our conversations, debates and arguments with friends, drinking buddies, etc…. Andruw is the finest, most talented outfielder ever. He makes the really difficult plays (like the wall crashing catch tonight), and makes difficult plays look easy. I don’t suppose there is any way to calculate the runs or base runners he has saved by his incredible defense over the years (yes Shaun, this is a challenge to you). Subjectively, however, he is better than Willie Mays, who most acknowledge was the top outfielder of all time.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

On the Laroche trade. I hated to lose him. But, with the bullpen we had last year, and knowing we would still have . plenty of hitting with others, I wanted to get Gonzalez with the Braves BAD, in the worst way. That JS got Lillibridge was icing on the cake. I don’t necessarily think JS took the Bucs to the cleaners on the deal. Whehter Laroche thrives or bombs with the Bucs, doesn’t matter. We got what we needed… a reliable left handed reliever who can hold, set up or close. I think LaRoche will come around, and despite the current boos, will become a very popular and productive player in Steel Town. I think in the next year, two or three, both team’s fans will be very satisfied with the trade.

By The Grinch

May 11, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

GHF, good post last blog about the Mets wives; I was wondering that as well. :-)

I felt bad for Adam; hope he picks it up after we leave. HUGE boost to the collective psyche of the team to get 7 strong from Davies tonight. To those who said he had it in him; you were right. However, I gotta ask why the hell couldn’t he do this two weeks ago? Someone must have finally cornered him and slapped the ^%$# out of him.

Send Money, how do you feel about Victoria, BC as a place to take a woman?

By 3trees

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

Guys, very good point about Gonzo and arbitration. If he’s not re-signed. The trade then is 1 year of Gonzo and whatever Lillibridge becomes. Its getting cloudier and cloudier. Oh, well. At least we got ‘em this year.

May not have been the prettiest, but that was 7 innings of 1 run ball from Davies. A corner turned?

Go Braves!

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Grinch don’t confuse yourself.

By fastasballs

May 11, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Now if James can accomplish anything near to what Davies & Lerew did, myself & every Braves fan will be estatic.

The offense is getting ready to explode, it’s coming. Andruw has shortned up his stance & has looked much better the past few games. Chipper is not looking too fragile, he can’t run a lick right now but hasn’t missed one game to injury. There was a lot of balls hit hard tonight.

I was glad to see Edgar keep his hit streak going with that 9th inning single. The Braves announcers were too busy yapping to notice.

Now the glaring weakness at the plate is Wilson. Thor can’t do any worse than stike out 2-3 times a game against a lefty like Wilson does, at least he would be getting the experience. I have a feeling he would do much better in the long run.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox ties Sparky Anderson on the all time winning manager’s list. Bobby has 200 FEWER losses than Sparky. Anybody want to argue that Bobby is a crappy manager (other then HeeHaw Robert)?

Congrats to Bobby tonight, and tomorrow when he takes over 4th place on the all time list. That is where he will finish (he is unlikely to overtake LaRussa, unless Tony takes the next step and does a Josh Hancock). Long live Bobby Cox!! Robert, bend over and beg, “Thank you sir, may I have another?”

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Ok Grinch I’ll pretend you’re not being sarcastic.The first time I went to Victoria I was going fishing on the Campbell river and spent an afternoon in town with a fishing buddy.The next time I took the woman I was seeing in Colorado,let’s just say it’s more a couples town than a singles one.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this

I don’t think I would worry too much about Gonzalas’s contract next year, if he continues to pitch the way he has. The Braves will pay his market value. There is a lot of difference between arbitration eligible and free agency.

Nice to see two good starts in a row by Davies. Now, if James can get his act turned around. When Redman makes his rehab starts, we will see if his toe surgery has an effect on his arm.

Otherwise look for a trade or release, who knows what can happen but the emergence of Larew and the good work by Davies bodes well for Atlanta.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

N8:

Your 8:23 was right on the money - great post. If we can play .600 ball or better without hitting home runs, we’ll play .650 or better when we are hitting dingers.

Your 9:05 post was bad, bad, bad. The only reason Muts fans come here is to stir up crap and get attention. Your post only feeds the sewer rat mentality - just ignore the bag - if they are ignored when they come here with their ridiculous pontifications (look that word up - it fits these fellas perfectly), they will simply go away - just like the Muts will cease to be a concern to us and fade away after the All Star break. Chill, baby, Chill!!

By ElbravoX

May 11, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

“Pull a Josh Hancock”, Y? just not needed. All of things…

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Grinch: You are Ron Jeremy without the sword, without the women falling at your feet, and without the camera. But, gotta hand it to ya bud - you got the “want to” ;o)

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

I’ll be surprised if Wickman,Gonzo and Soriano are all back next year.Didn’t JS sign Wickman to a multi-year deal ?if so I guess it’ll be him and either Gonzo or Soriano.I don’t think we could afford all three.

By mike

May 11, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

NO CHOP ZONE… Concerning your 8:57 post: The mets were winning 5-2 and you were on a Braves blog???

I’m sure the “real” mets fans weren’t hanging around another team’s site during the game.

You are a joke. Keep coming back, you are funny.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Elbravox:

I watched Josh Hancock pitch in high school. He was from my town. I watched him play at Auburn, the one year that he was there. I loved the guy, and was proud of what he achieved. He did a really stupid thing. His choice, he paid the ultimate price. A very sad situation, for his team, his fans, but most especially for his family and friends. His manager was found asleep behind the wheel, drunk. The reference was simply “tongue in cheek”. If this blog is going to get so PC on issues like this, well, that is sad. Just bear in mind that all lament Hancock’s untimely death. But, it could have been avoided. If you are going to crack on me for the reference, then please go join PUSH or the Rainbow Coalition, or some other wannabe politically correct organization.

By ncscoots

May 11, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

random thoughts…first, someone please email jed a clue. His analysis of Thorman pretty much flies in the face of any reasonable evaluation of the guy, based on his minor league numbers and what he has done in his opporunities this year in the bigs…Grinch, don’t know if someone gave Davies a few bucks for his “ten-cent head” (oh, sure, you remember saying that, right? LOL). I think, more likely, he’s finally been able to put the groin injury out of his head…3trees, no “signing” of arb-eligible players, they are still under club control. Just a matter of which salary gets paid, the team’s number or the player’s number. Gonz and Soriano go nowhere the Braves don’t want them to go for the next coupla years…LaRoche in April is probably never going to be pretty; but even with that, he’s hit well with RISP, Pirates just don’t provide many opportunities currently. Bug will be fine and will have a solid year when all is said and done…Look for James to have better deception on his change tomorrow, maybe. He’s had a couple of side sessions to work on a recently noted mechanical flaw, that might be enough to bring him back up to speed.

Yoc’s rock, go Gymdawgs!

By Scott

May 11, 2007 10:55 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Pirate fans are all over LaRoche. Gonzalez made easy work of him in the 9th. Gonzo and Soriano are insane right now. Best 8th and 9th inning guys in the business.

By Send Money,

May 11, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

Grinch stay loose,it’s just a little i-net chat.Time for Bill Maher,latter folks.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 11, 2007 11:01 PM | Link to this

Send Money - Beefy Bob is signed to a one year contract through 2007, no further.

By Ron

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

All you Muts fans out there, name me a few met blogs that yall go to or have heard of, why I can go to those blogs, and start sayin bullcrap to them!!!

By The Grinch

May 11, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Send Money, I was being sarcastic, but in a friendly way (you posted a similar sentence about it twice in a row). Scoots, I’m not backing off that statement about Kyle. I’m glad he’s had two good starts in a row and I home he has another few hundred. You may be right in your analysis, but there was NO GAP whatsoever between him getting consistently shelled/pulled in 2 or three innings and INSTANTLY being able to consistantly go 6 or 7 strong, no rehab needed. That’s a head problem, not a physical one. I hope it’s one he’s permanently solved.

Scalp, how did you know about my back hair and inadequate equipment? Did my ex really circulate that tape like she threatened to? :-)

By HP

May 11, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Ron, mets don’t seem to have any blog. I googled for mets blog and I did’nt find any. Thats why the mets fan come over here. If someone finds it, please let us know.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

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

Grinch: lucky guess, nothing more - I promise!!

By ElbravoX

May 11, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this

scalp ‘Em- Far from the PC police, but if you need two paragraph to defend four words… I love the 17th amendment thou.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

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

There are a couple of Muts blogs. They are lame… one is run by a beat reporter for the Muts. Believe me, it is nothing like this one - an initial post (two paragraphs) by the writer, and then about 45 posts over 24 hours from whining, beeching guys sitting around with nothing better to do than worry about the Braves. Not worth commenting here. Heading for some sack time - Rest easy sheep shaggers - the bleat goes on………….

By gotigers72

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

jed - Get off of Thorman buddy. He did fine at Richmond, hit 20 homers there one year, around.280. Lots of potential. As far as defense, he looks good to me. Not as good as LaRoche, but neither is anybody else. He’s made like 1 or 2 errors. Doesn’t have as much range as Rochey, but is good as scooping bad throws from other infielders. His first full year in the majors. Besides, the Braves had to have somebody to play first so they could get Gonzalez. I’d say that’s worth the tradeoff.

IMO, he will be a .280, 20 homer, 75 RBI hitter soon. He is a line drive gap type hitter. What about that laser he hit tonight that almost went out. Needs to be more selective as he tends to swing at bad pitches sometime. So did Frenchy last year, look how much he has improved. Thorman will show improved plate discipline eventually, and that’s when he’ll take off.

By jed

May 11, 2007 11:28 PM | Link to this

ncscoots—Yes, please, thank you for imploring bloggers to email me a clue. Let’s see…what’s Thorman “done in his opportunities in the bigs”? HE’S HITTING .240. IN A PLATOON, FORGODSAKES! but, please… by all means break out your geek stats and spin that into a positive for me.

By Ross

May 11, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

When is the AJC going to wake up and realize thay A. Laroche is no longer an Atlanta Brave and we really don’t care what he does anymore. Ross

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

More news from the farm After loosing two in a row and the last a 12-1 blow out by Charlotte the R Braves returned to their winning ways with a 3-0 victory over Durham.

Buddy Carlyle again pitched 5 1/3 innings of shutout baseball to pick up the win. I am telling you guys, this 29 year old is the real deal for somebody. I think that pushes his scoreless streak to 36 consecutive innings.

Just what we need, depth at AAA and AA amongst the pitching corps. I think Buddy was a free agent signee so I am not sure if he is on the 40 man roster.

Sorry, no first basemen on the horizon. Looks like Thorman will have to continue to hold the fort.

I look for Chipper to get the day off tomorrow night. Perhaps a start for Pete Orr at third to give Chipper a rest after that horrible tumble tonight.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 11, 2007 11:53 PM | Link to this

Oh, forgot to mention Carlyle had 9 strikeouts in that 5 1/3 innings….

Carroll, maybe you should do a little in depth on the Braves prospects beyond the obvious names being touted by the Braves. Richmond and Mississippi are tearing up their leagues respectively.

Bill McCarthy, outfielder for Richmond, looks to be a keeper. Thank you Lew for bringing him to my attention.

By Shaun

May 11, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘Em Braves,

Actually Baseball Prospectus calculates fielding runs. To tell you the truth I’m not exactly sure how this is calculated but I think it has something to do with how many balls a defensive player reaches.

They estimate that Andruw has been 281 runs better than a fringe-level CF and about 99 runs better than the average CF throughout his career. This is just what he’s done as a CF. As a RF he’s at 19 better that fringe and 11 better than average.

Offensively he’s about 300 runs above fringe or replacement level for a player at his position, 110 runs better than average.

By Drew

May 12, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Several observations: 1. Why is everyone so down on Thorman? He is hitting the ball hard every time up. If he was able to get consistent at-bats, he’d probably be up around .280. As it sits now, he is hitting .247 with 3 HR and 13 RBI. Not bad for your 7th hitter, especially since the guy he replaced is hitting in the .165 with 3 HR and 14 RBI playing everyday. Thorman is doing exactly what the Braves expected of him, and would be doing even better if they would play him more often. By the way, Thorman has 0 errors on the season and is playing very well defensively this season. LaRoche has 2 errors and has been considered a Gold Glove caliber 1st baseman. Not too bad a showing from Thorman ehh?

1. Great game tonight. Good team win, with quality pitching and clutch hitting. Good to see Davies getting some confidence, and a start against Washington next week can’t hurt. Maybe he can become a consistent force out of the 4 or 5 spot in the rotation. Let’s hope so.

2. I continue to think, as I did when it was made, that the LaRoche trade was a very good one for the Braves. As has been mentioned, LaRoche’s trade value was higher than it had ever been or ever will be again. He is, as many have said, a complimentary player, in much the same way as Thorman is. Gonzalez has been great, as we all knew he would be. If Lillibridge develops into a starter, then this deal becomes an absolute robbery.

3. My only concern right now is how much Gonzalez and Soriano have been used. Gonzalez is on pace to pitch in 74 games this season. His previous high in a season is 54 games last season. Soriano is on pace to pitch in 88 games, with his previous high being 53 last season. Bobby needs to be a little more careful how he uses these guys. It seemed to me tonight, that Moylan or Paronto could have been brought on to close out the game. It wasn’t necessary to have Gonzalez in since it wasn’t a lefty heavy inning. Bobby must be careful with these guys. There arms aren’t rubber, and we don’t want them breaking down down the stretch or in the playoffs.

4. Good blog Carroll

By TheSouthernJackAss

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

Like a swarm of bean farts rattling around in a steel drum…

By Wayne in Utah

May 12, 2007 1:24 AM | Link to this

Willy Wally

Sorry to respond so late. It was a LONG and arduous book tour through Wyoming this week, but I am finally home again. I can’t believe how many fans I have out there!

Thank God for XM radio out in the netherlands. A bit of bad sports news to report tonight: the Warriors beat up big time on my Utah Jazz. I am trying to score some cheap tickets for game 5 on Tuesday night. Hopefully we will be successful on Sunday night.

Great game for Davies, AJ, and Thorman! I was so frustrated when I realized he was not in the lineup tonight.

Did you all hear that the esteemed Reverend Sharpton has gotten around to offending me and those of my faith?? At least he didn’t call us “nappy headed Mormons!”

The poet abides……..(is that getting big headed enough for you WW??)

:-)

By DAD

May 12, 2007 1:30 AM | Link to this

The Braves are hot now. Just wait until that powerful Mets lineup gets rolling. The Braves will eat the Mets dust by the All Star break. Too bad Loaroche is in Pittsburgh and can’t watch the Mets runaway with the NL East.

By Wayne in Utah

May 12, 2007 1:42 AM | Link to this

Dad: I thought the Mets were doing quite well already??? Do you really think they will get a lot better??? Maybe, maybe not. It will be a dog-fight all year between the two teams, or at least that is my guess.

I miss the charm of the old Mets: Ron Swoboda, Cleon Jones, Ed Charles, Tom Seaver, Art Shamsky, etc. Todays’ Mets don’t seem to be as much of a family as the ‘69 Miracle Mets.

By parks

May 12, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this

DAD, your muts lineup is rolling. Do you really think Green and Alou are going to keep this up all year? do you think Reyes won’t hit a cold streak? Do you really think David Wright is not the most overrated 3B in Baseball?

C’mon man, we have owned you for the last 15 years dou you really think its going to be different?

Sosa, Perez, and Pelphy? C’mon man

By serbok

May 12, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this

Drew~ IMO~ (lol) very good 12:07 post~ AND YES Scalp’emBraves~ I will contend that Bobby is not the best “situational” mgr~ he is given credit for~ I tend to agree with Robert~ tho not nearly as exhuberantley as he~ The guy just isnt a very good Field general~ Its a very old and in depth argument~ and its only opinion anyway~ I’m not one to “dig” up stats~ as the type of managing that I speak of~ and not only Robert, cannot be equated into statisticle references~ ‘m not here to argue~ However, being as some Bobby lovers think he is the all time greatest~(which in my mind he is in many ways!} He just sometimes~ hmmm more than sometimes, blows it with his loyalty to his players~ I can see where that can be a payoff~ in a minority of instances~ but overall the man more often than not, especially during Post Season does not make the fundamentally correct decisions~ I heard he said after Wicky was put on DL/ that he would have to manage the Pen by “feeling?” Well~ far be it from me~ but thats the best way to manage ~of course if one has “feelings” as to putting the proper player in a game at the proper time~. I mean come on~ I think most here realise the debacle in Miami ( that Bobby) had no “feeling” at all as to who should have come into the game with the bases loaded in the 9th with no-outs? I like Bobby! VERY happy he was resigned~ but I do not follow blindly~ Nor should a manager in his position~ Long Live JS ~ and Bobby~!When it comes right down to it~~~~ JS is due much more credit than Bobby’s on field decisions~

Very Sorry for the long post guys~ As most know I dont usually post like this~ just peeves me sometimes, when sheep are led to believe~ what isnt really the truth~ I will pointing out Bobby’s great moves~ and hiss guffaws~hopefully! I wont have to point out to much valley of indecision messes he creates:o) Go Braves!

By Pedro's Daddy AND the MUTS Daddy

May 12, 2007 1:58 AM | Link to this

Yall suck MUTS, Cant wait for Pedro to come back with that injury and get owned by the Braves, that goes the same for the SH!TTY MUTS!!!

By serbok

May 12, 2007 2:04 AM | Link to this

Wayne~ thanx for the blast from the past:o) When will you be in my area for the book signing thing? I unfortunately missed the poetic post~ But am a big fan of poetry~ Have any Lizard King type feelings for the muts?????????? I’d love to read some!!!! I particularly was thinkin along the lines of~ “Woke up ‘dis mornin and I got myself a beer! Looked at the paper and the muts just dont seem to have any Idea? Not puttin words in your mouth Wayne~ just curious is all:o)

By Pedro's Daddy, Sosa's Daddy, Glavine's Daddy, Pelphy's Daddy AND the Muts DADDY

May 12, 2007 2:07 AM | Link to this

Yep I can see why yall Muts fans think that Wright is gonna be better than Chipper. Yep Chipper for some reason gets booed out of Shea stadium every at bat, I WONDER WHY? And when Wright come to Turner Field what happens, nothin, no boo around, I WONDER WHY? Maybe because Wright AINT DONE SH!T!!! When Wright wins a division championship single handedly and wins a MVP against a certain team in the LAST MONTH OF THE SEASON like Chipper did, then you IDIOTS can start sayin how great Wright is until then Wright aint SH!T!!!

By parks

May 12, 2007 2:15 AM | Link to this

What? You mean a .254 AVG 3 HR and 15 RBI’s doesn’t win you a MVP?

By serbok

May 12, 2007 2:18 AM | Link to this

-2:07 post!!!! It does seem like great players are envied~ especially when they HURT the one they love to hurt? I cant ever see Wright getting the attention chipper gets~ He is after all the Greatest switch-hitter in all time~ next to The Mick~ but who knows~ maybe he will shatter that notion also:o)

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

Nah, Wayne the Versifier is too good of a man and too humble to get too big of a head. But with the fame comes responsibilities and book tours and autograph shows. Heavy weighs the crown.

But to show his continued commitment, Wayne got back to assuming his closer responsibilities tonight. Wayne the Versifier and Serbok are forming a helluva one-two combo in the late innings a la Gonzo and Soriano. Their contrasting styles are a thing of beauty to watch. Wayne is the finesse guy - painting the strike zone like an artist. Serbok throws heavy, nasty stuff - sinkers, splitters - he does not strike out alot of guys but hitters don’t like making contact with his pitchers - his stuff is so nasty and heavy, the hitters say that making contact off Serbok is like hitting Another Brick In The Wall.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 3:38 AM | Link to this

The Magic Number Is 128!

By Bob, journalist

May 12, 2007 5:27 AM | Link to this

Robert will be glad to know that Bobby has changed his mind and will not go after Connie Mack’s record.

Matthew, isn’t it strange how everyone wants good seats for the games but most do whatever possible to sit in the back row in church?

How embarrassing that would be if the church was as empty as some ball parks!

Davies pitched rather well and we won … we may have snatched another victory from the jaws of defeat … and it looks like we’ve been having more than our share of close calls with regard to injuries too …

By Coach

May 12, 2007 5:58 AM | Link to this

first thing , let me comment on the Laroche trade. The Pirates got raped , period. Thats not a knock against Adam , its just the fact that the Pirates coughed up Lillibridge who looks like a legit major league prospect. They were not going to win with Laroche and we knew that , so why didn’t they go after Thorman and another player to make it a two for one trade in their favor ? The Pirated front office gets a big fat F in my book , they could have done a much better job trading Gonzalez to Atlanta.

By Coach

May 12, 2007 6:13 AM | Link to this

What a great game to watch , PNC Park is just gorgeous. This 2007 Braves squad has perfected the two out offense and Bobby Cox said it best : We have good hitters and when you have good hitters , it doesn’t matter how many outs there are. Ditto , I could not agree more…………. Doubting Thomas has left the building , this team is for real. The concerns about the back of the rotation and the outfield have vanished like smoke in the wind. This team has the horses to go the distance and after six weeks of baseball they have sold this fan , they are headed for the playoffs. whether as a division winner or wild card , they are a playoff caliber baseball team. So , get on the playoff bandwagon because that is where we are headed.

By ncscoots

May 12, 2007 6:41 AM | Link to this

For jed, some “geek stat spin” on Thorman as requested…only 77 AB so far this year, so his BA is going to be volatile. Three more hits this season, and he’d be at .280+; if he goes 3-for-4 tonight, he’d be at .270+; the point is that viewing him strictly on BA, good or bad, at this point would be a superficial analysis. He’s striking out only once per six-plus AB, has 14 RBI (projecting to 100+ over 550 AB), has 9 extra-base hits out of his total of 10 hits.

So he’s making contact, hitting the ball hard when he does get a hit, and is producing runs in his limited opportunities. I don’t believe that’s spin, my man, just a reasonable evaluation of Thor’s capabilities and potential.

By LanceinFL

May 12, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this

Pete Orr at third…now there is a scary thought…..

By james

May 12, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this

Anyone who is wondering if Chucky will pitch like last year again needs to read todays game preview on the braves website. It said that a day before the last game he raised his arm angle a little and he regained the movement on his changeup. It is only a matter of time before he regains his control.

By JC FROM UT

May 12, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

At the the time and obviously now, the trade is a no-brainer. A hard throwing lefty who will become the closer next season is too good to pass up, not to mention also getting the probable heir to Renteria. I’m some what suprised that LaRoach was in Atlanta for the 2006 season. I’m sure he is a great guy and all but he seems so lackadasicle. He does not seem like a winning player to me. He shows no desire or hustle similar to Thorman.

By David

May 12, 2007 8:23 AM | Link to this

Carroll, he didn’t play at Marist so obviously he was overrated. :-)

He is the streaky of streaky players and what he did last year was amazing, give him credit. But your point is the crux of the issue. He was able to do it in the shadows of Chipper, Andruw, Frenchy etc, he had no pressure…now he’s the guy and he isn’t good enough to carry that label. You can’t consistently be good with that batting style and hitch. Teams scout you and find the hole and when your confidence goes down, it becomes even more pronounced. Bring back some Iron City Beer!

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 12, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this

Bob, you are right, my friend. That reminds me of a teacher story. On the first day of school, teh teacher watched as the kids filed into her room. She didn’t have a seating chart, and watched the kids sit wherever they wanted. As could be expected, the kids all crammed into the back rows of desks, and let the first two rows completely empty. Once the trady bell rang, the teacher went to her podium and said, “Good morning, class. We will start the day with exercise. Please stand, pick up your desk and turn it around to face the back wall.” The students did so, though they were a bit confused. When the desks were in place, the teacher walked to th eback of the room and said, “This is your seat for the year, and we will conduct class from here each day.” She fooled them into sitting on the front rows of the room!

Also, in regards to church, I have known of a rather mischievious pastor who put red ribbon on the back two rows of his church with a sign marked, “Reserved.” This required parishoners to sit closer to the front…

Hmm…not a bad idea, actually!

By Steve McP

May 12, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

On Thorman - He seems to be hitting the ball hard, but is surely hampered by the platoon - do you remmeber last year when LaRoche was in a similar situation and suddenly due to injuries he is playing every day against lefties and righties and has a break out season that has been hugely beneficial for the Braves this year as it allowed them to acquire Gonzalez. Now maybe we can get a good strater for 08 if only Wilson’s toe would start playing up……..

Of course we will have a good starter introduced for 08 as Hampton will be fit again - yes of course we are all beleivers that that is going to happen!

By It's Early

May 12, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

He is known to be a slow starter in the past. His batting averages by month for past three years. March/April: .210 May: .271 June .263 July .298 August .288 September .303 October .333.

This is exactly what I was thinking. Give him some time. And when Kelly, Edgar, and the gang go into a slump at somepoint this year, give them some time to bounce back.

By Mitchie-san

May 12, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this

I never was a big fan of LaRoche’s. I would have traded him, his brother and his dog to fix the bullpen.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

If we play .500 ball the rest of the way, the Braves will win 87 games.

If we play .555 ball (88 win pace over 162) the rest of the way, the Braves will win 94 games.

If we play .600 ball (96 win 162 pace), the rest of the way, the Braves will win 99 games.

This hot start has bought this team a lot of wiggle room. If they merely avoid anything as horrific as the June Swoon of 2006, then this hot start should guarantee that they make the playoffs.

By MEB

May 12, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

How big was that dropped ball by Xavier Nady last night? Duke was throwing a pretty impressive game up until that point and then the flood gates opened. I really enjoyed Chipper acknowledging Nady’s misfortune with a laugh while standing on second base. I bet that Nady’s face print is still in that center field padding. Someone needs go out there a put a police outline on the spot today.

By Mitchie-san

May 12, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this

Poor guy, he made a heck of an effort. Im glad it went our way though….

By Jim

May 12, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Looking forward to the series at Fenway — The Red Sox starters are all right-handed (unless Lester is brought up before then). I would like to see the following lineup:

Kelly Johnson, 2b; Retereia, ss; Chipper, 3B; Andruw, CF; McCann, DH; Francouer, RF; Thorman, 1B; Salty, C; Harris, LF.

I think this lineup is every bit as good as the Red Sox lineup, and a bit deeper. It looks like the starters for that series will be Lerew, Smoltz, and Hudson. Their starting pitchers and closer are very good, but Smoltz and Hudson are at least the equal of any of their starters and our bullpen is deeper — just hope they don’t get to the 9th with a lead.

By Amber

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

I have to say - the most memorable part of last night’s game was when Chipper took his tumble. The man reached out for the base and kept his hand on it the whole time! Now that is a baseball player.

By Mitchie-san

May 12, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

One flaw in your plan… Salty has never played First.

By Mitchie-san

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

scratch that… my bad.

By Dan

May 12, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

The answer to concern Gonzo and Soriano are being over-used? One word … WICKMAN

By Jacket in Steel Town

May 12, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

I moved from Athens to Pittsburgh three years ago. Sure, the Winters are grey and long, but we’ve had three weeks of sunny 70 degree days and Pittsburgh is actually beautiful.

Took my 3yr old son to the game last night. Pirate fans love to belly ache, especially about LaRoche, but every last one of them admits the Braves are the real thing … and eventually mention Sid Bream beating Barry #!*#%$^ Bond’s sissy throw to the plate.

By Lew

May 12, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

There were several posts last evening concerning the affordability of Gonzalez and Soriano. I’m not sure if some people realize that we have contractual control over both players through the 09 season. It is one of the reasons that JS picked them up-the fact we can keep them for a while. They are arbitration eligible, but are not free agent eligible for two more seasons. They will receive raises after this year and next, but will still be considerably cheaper than on the open market. As far as locking them up long term, that would be senseless at this point in time, given that they have spent time on the DL in the past. We can wait until during the 09 season if we want to sign them longer-we already have them for three years. No need to do it any sooner.

By Jim

May 12, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Right on Dan! The biggest way in which we miss Wickman right now is that Gonzalez and/or Soriano is pitching almost every day (and also Yates). The rest of the bullpen is serviceable, but not the people you want in the late innings of a close game. We could use a few blowouts in the next few games.

By Lew

May 12, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Some had speculated about the acquisition of Roy Halladay from the Jays. Doesn’t look like it will happen. He just had an emergency appendectomy and will miss four to six weeks. Just be real glad we don’t have the Jays problems. Now their top starter and their closer is gone.

By Robert

May 12, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this

“Just like it happens with players who come to Atlanta and can’t handle the expectations (Dan Kolb anyone?), might LaRoche be struggling with the expectations here”

I think it’s more struggling with role than with expectation.

If LaRoche is your 4th best bat, you’re probly gonna be competative. If LaRoche is your best bat, you’ll hit .500 once a decade.

No offense to LaRoche - he’s good, but any talk that he was a stud was either delusional on the part of Pittsburgh’s management, or more liekly their attempt to sell pewter as gold to their fan base

This may sound weird, but I think it would behoove the Braves in the long run to lose a few games soon. If they keep winning, they’ll get ever more engrained in the feeling that their bad habits (and they have many) are not a problem

Of course, this aint new - it’s been pretty much par for the course since about 1994.

Anway, let’s put that off until after we finish an undefeated week.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Who gives a $hit about LaRoche’s numbers?…he is Pittsburgh’s problem now!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

Lazyroach,is a goner he is no longer a Brave and like I have posted on many occasion, His numbers last year were a fluke:why do you think JS dealt him? He knew that Ol Lazybones was a fluke,a joke and a goner!!!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

What’s up SJA,and where’s Lew?

By mr baseball

May 12, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Where are all the Andruw bashers? A week ago, 98.5 percent of the bloggers here were ready to run him out of town. 3 game winning hits later, Andruw’s name has pretty much disappeared, pro or con.

After last night’s gem, why have all you Davies haters, and there are a whole lot of you, suddenly ceased your expert opinions about his unfitness to pitch in the majors? Maybe because you were, how to say this, WRONG.

This blog could use a little accountability from those whose expert opinions are frequently in error. Along with those who are quick to tell us when they were right about a particular player or issue (sometimes after opining on both sides), some of you should step up a la Phil Mickelson after his U.S. Open meltdown, and publicly admit, “I am such an idiot.”

All those here, and I admit I was one of them, who were suggesting that Cox should consider dropping Andruw in the batting order, have clearly not been paying close enough attention for the past 10 years. How often has he gone through stretches just like the one he suffered through for most of April, and then suddenly snapped out of it with a vengeance? Just about every year.

One of the things Cox does admirably is stick with players when they’re struggling. Sometimes he’s guilty of going too long with underperformers, but more often than not, his patience is rewarded. For those of you who were ready to discard KJ after one week; Andruw a month into the season; Davies after a start or two; and are still screaming for the release of Woodward and Wilson, give it a rest for a while.

And for those singing Schuerholz’s praises for his off-season work which has greatly strengthened the bullpen, just remember that he was the person primarily responsible for leaving the team with such a third rate group of relievers the past few seasons.

A W today and the Braves will be playing .667 baseball. Considering the gnashing and wailing that goes on here, how could that be possible?

By Joshhh

May 12, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

This reminds me soooo much of the Javy Lopez experience. Yes, Lopez did stay with us much longer than Laroche did, but remember when Javy had that one superstar year?? And then what happened?? Oh yeah he went to Baltimore (another terrible team) and fell apart.

By Joshhh

May 12, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

This reminds me soooo much of the Javy Lopez experience. Yes, Lopez did stay with us much longer than Laroche did, but remember when Javy had that one superstar year?? And then what happened?? Oh yeah he went to Baltimore (another terrible team) and fell apart.

By Joshhh

May 12, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

This reminds me soooo much of the Javy Lopez experience. Yes, Lopez did stay with us much longer than Laroche did, but remember when Javy had that one superstar year?? And then what happened?? Oh yeah he went to Baltimore (another terrible team) and fell apart.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Ohhh! what a week we have had,first off we have Jesse Jerkson telling the Braves what he Expcts them to do,yeah right like he’s the team owner;then we have the Mutts shaving their heads utterly UGLY!! then we have the lost and delusional still lamenting A.Lazyroach,whew what a week,and somehow the Braves still walked thru 2 of the best pitching staffs,and are up to a 7-3 record so far. anythingelse we can get in here? lemme see Cleveland owes us another world series title for that highway robbery,named Len Barker……

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Time to pay up I think we’ll take Grady Sizemore and Jake Westbrook for repayment!! send them over now for C.woodward,M Redman,and McBride. send em on over you owe us you know you do!!!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Andruw Jones—comes to Atlanta…nothing but hype and potential…never lived up to the potential…offensive consistency>>>can’t hit his a$s with the palm of his hand…better years behind him, big money years ahead of him—not worth the extra millions he will demand in exchange for a couple extra catches in the outfield, that a cheaper player could make, on a team living in poverty because of nonhuman ownership!…let Andruw bounce…spend $2 mil, not $20 mil on his replacement…

joe brave—keep telling it like it is bro…

By mike

May 12, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Hey NO CHOP ZONE, I’d like some more of your garbage. I’m ready to laugh and your posts always are funny. Maybe you will post on the Braves site DURING the Mets game again today like the “real” Mets fan that you are.

By The Grinch

May 12, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Mr Baseball, I addressed this last night. I wasn’t ready to discard Davies after “a start or two;” he’s sucked consistently for quite some time now. You must have missed almost all of last season and the beginning of this one. I’m glad he finally figured out after all this time that it isn’t illegal to throw strikes, and I hope he keeps it up. Forgive me if I don’t feel like an “idiot” though for ever doubting him. He has failed miserably and looked very, very worthy of doubt for a good while longer than most would have put up with without optioning his behind back to AAA. At the moment, it’s looking like this is one of those times Bobby’s patience (or more likely, lack of a better option) has paid off. Good for him. He seems to have learned how to swim despite himself. I will definitely agree with you we who praise JS for this year’s bullpen should remember he was responsible for the poor previous one. Good point.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

Just heard that the Mets aren’t getting the expected results as far as unity by shaving their heads—so now they’re also going to shave each others’ @$$es…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

I for one am not on the A.Jones band wagon,He should have been shipped the hell outta here last July,He is one fly ball away from the d.l. or one more dumbass swing away from it either way it will happen this year,man the guy simply is not clutch!yet there are those who want to pay him 20 mil to stay,to that I say HORSE$HIT,put Frenchy in CF Salty in RF and get Rios from Toronto,then you got yourselves an outfield!!!!And leave Thorman alone at least he is more clutch than A.J.

By The Grinch

May 12, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

SJA, what’s the difference? :-) Don Ho’s daughter’s been found dead. Her last name was Ho Henry; there’s a prostitute/candy bar joke in there for any sick ^%$# that wants to take a shot at it.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Lol that was some funny s** SJA

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

SJA, I believe the team held a vote & they have elected to use wax instead of shaving, “It’s safer & more effective.” Moises Alou was overheard saying. It is also rumored that Alou volunteed to share with teammates his “special ingredient” hand ointment but it is unclear if anyone has accepted the offer.

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Andruw is getting hits because he changed his stance. Watch the replay of the homerun, he actually stepped into the pitch. That would have not been possible with his feet four feet apart.

I was all for moving Andruw down a few spots in the order, not because of his average but because of his unwillingness to make adjustments to his approach at the plate.

If Andruw sticks with his current approach the offense is going to take off. There will be no more pitching around Chipper to get to Andruw if he continues his good work from the past few games.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

can’t hit his a$s with the palm of his hand The Gold Club girls say that he was pretty good at hitting ….. ah, well, never mind.

Strong 1:02 SJA!

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

According to Julio Franco, as far as Moises Alou’s offer for use of his “special ingredient” ointment goes, the Mets did veto that idea…and Julio further stated that, “Man, dat sheet would burn like hell if you got any kneeks!”…

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

In keeping with the Latino theme of Omar Minaya’s team, Omar has ordered each Met player to have a Brazilian Wax!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Any of you guys know what a met is?go ahead please ask me

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

What is a met joe?…I always thought it was the point where 2 buttcheeks met…

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Metropolitan - A citizen of a metropolis, especially one who displays urbane characteristics, attitudes, and values.

In other words, a city boy jerk.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

According to wikipedia a met is a genetic condition that causes mental retardation,whichwould explain the rationale of Mets bloggers on this page. Mutts fans are mundane,irrational,and RETARDED!!!!!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

This just in>>>Tommy Glavine has just volunteered to shave, wax, or use sheep shears on his teammates—“It’s the least I could do to help the team!”—he said. Then he further added, “I have plenty of experience in working around @$sholes, considering all that time I spent over the years in dealing with Schuerholz and Cox!”…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

Can you imagine 43000 reatrds in a stadium? no wonder the Yankees built their farm team in Queens!!!

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 2:21 PM | Link to this

Where are all those Mets fans now telling us to be scared of Pelfrey? Pelfrey sucks!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Wiilie Randolph has just been handed a memo from Fred Wilpon it reads as follows; Willie I don’t have many orders but you are now being ordered to use Tweezers for the removal of the a* hair during this show of unity,Furthermore it is my request that since Jose Reyes did not participate in the team stupidity He will be designated as the a* hair remover for this function. Regards Fred Wilpon

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Brew Crew is putting one on the Muts today, 4-0 in the 5th.

By Robert

May 12, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

“All those here, and I admit I was one of them, who were suggesting that Cox should consider dropping Andruw in the batting order, have clearly not been paying close enough attention for the past 10 years. How often has he gone through stretches just like the one he suffered through for most of April, and then suddenly snapped out of it with a vengeance? Just about every year. “

Sounds to me like he shoulda been hitting sixth all along. I want consistency from my 3-4-5 hitters.

By Ron

May 12, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

joebrave, here is another good Outfield idea, Frenchy, Salty, Brandon Jones, or Blanco. 3 of the 4 would be better than keeping Andruw and have no money left to fill a major need!!!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Mike Pelfrey should be first in line for his removal,He sucks!! let’s go mets let’s go mets NOT!!!

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Don’t tell me that there are bats in the Pelfrey!…

By Robert

May 12, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

“This team has the horses to go the distance”

We had the horses to go the distance in 93,96,97,99,and 02 as well. (not to mention pretty good horses in 91,92,98,00,01,and 03)

This team looks like it could have a very good regular season.

Give me one reason you think their postseason exploits will be any better this year than in years past.

By Robert

May 12, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

“A W today and the Braves will be playing .667 baseball. Considering the gnashing and wailing that goes on here, how could that be possible?”

Because they have had the right combination of luck, good starting pitching, and timely hitting to be playing .700 baseball, if not for their leadership

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

I absolutely agree Ron, both Brandon and Gregor are major league ready now but Salty’s stick is more suited to rf.I just like Rios’ upside a lot,that kid has a ton of talent.But I do like homegrown.yet I still wish someone in the organization would please take a look at that kid Ledezma in Detroit,I love his stuff,A Lh starter although he is in their pen with Gonzalez power.

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 12, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Well Bobby Cox could get beaned by a foul ball during the last regular season game, and remain unconscious throughout the entire postseason—then the Braves would have a chance at a different postseason outcome…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Cmon Robert let’s not start with the Cox bashing,The team has something that propels other teams to Championships that is a lights out bullpen! so in any short series Los Bravos have the decided advantage1

By Ron

May 12, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

joebrave, I like Rios also, but they would probably want alot of pitching, Would not have any idea what it would take to get him, but if we could get him without giving up the farm system, I would try to get Rios!!!

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

If we keep killing Soriano, Gonzalez, and Wickman like we have in the first quarter of the season, this bullpen will not be lights out come playoff time.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Mocking the death of Ho Henry? Is nothing sacred anymore?

By The Grinch

May 12, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

joebrave, re: your 2:41…I like homegrown too, but only because I know what I’m doing. Some of the other “local” stuff around here wouldn’t get my cat stoned.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Nice to know you caught my pitch Grinch: Where the hell is nochop,metman,and the other asylum attendees? I guess the New Brew Crew shut em up early today.Ron I can live with our discussion although it is odd for anyone to agree with me,just as long as no one here brings up Baldelli,Or Crawford,no need to beat dead horses…

I don’t think it would take much more than Davies and Prado to acquire Rios due to the fact that Toronto’s pitching is in shambles and their 2b situation is rather pathetic at this time,however I would rather get him on the chaep say McBride and Orr if that would suffice,I understand they are about to push the panic button…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

9-3 now that is what I call whuppin some skanky met a$$;Way to go Brew Crew!!!

By parks

May 12, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Muts getting smacked right now 9-3

By Lew

May 12, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

The Mets are having their shaved behinds handed to them by the Brewers. It’s 9-3. Pelfrey gave up 8 hits, 3BB and 4 runs in 5 IP. The bullpen has given up 7 hits and 5 runs. Yeah-Their pitching’s gonna hold up, isn’t it?

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

what’s up Lew? how ya been bro?

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

The Brew Crew is getting fugly on the Metrosexual Brazilian Wax Crew.

After they got their Brazilian Wax Job done this week, do you think David Wright turned to Paul LoDuca and said GNO - Girls Night Out?

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Hey Carroll,the Braves used to have a catcher Alberto Castillo do you have any Idea what ever happened to him and what he’s doing now? I kind of liked the old where are they now segments….

By jed

May 12, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

ncscoots et al: i agree we’ll have to wait and see with thorman. i dont have confidence, no, but like i said, i’d give him more time before trying to determine anything. i will say that wilson’s awful start has complicated the situation. wish DOB or Carroll would do a story on what the hell’s wrong with him. and i also agree i’m beating a dead horse by continuing to talk about thorman. i’d sworn it off before your post last night. what say we check back in on this conversation in a month? i’m pulling for him though.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

12-3 way to go Mutts now that’[s a way to show us how good your pitching staff is!! now that’s what I call pitching shut down baseball!!!

By james

May 12, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Excuse me, Wickman hasnt pitched in a game in 2 weeks. I guess he is really worn out. NOT

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

What? what just happened here?you don’t mean it; Bud Selig wants to do what? examine what? the Mutts are in danger of an MLB inveatigation for inside shaving, Oh no please Mr. Selig don’t take away their new found fondness for each other’s private areas!!!

By Ron

May 12, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Willy Wally, we have to keep using this bullpen, these games are too close not to use them, we dont use Gonzalez and Soriano in some of these games, we probably lose most of these games, Wickman will be back soon and that will give others a little bit of rest!!!

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

Hey Carroll,the Braves used to have a catcher Alberto Castillo do you have any Idea what ever happened to him and what he’s doing now? I kind of liked the old where are they now segments….

WTF, joebrave?!?! Random obscure reference of the millenium.

Hey, Rico Rossy had one at bat for the 1991 Braves, where is he now?

By Ron

May 12, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

joe brave, heard on mlbtraderumors.com that Crawford can be had right now, but they say that the Angels fit their need greatly with Ervin Santana. Just wanted to mention one of those names. hahaha!!!

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

Ron, I agree. They have to be used - doesn’t mean I am not scared about the long term consequences of it all

By Ron Roberts

May 12, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Wow, how long’s it been since the Mets were in first place???

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

Question….. Which is harder, pitching 200 plus innings as a starter or 80 plus as a reliever?

By Ron

May 12, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Gil In Mechanicsville, Probably a reliver, because they warm up in games that they some times dont even pitch in, but both are hard!!! Willy Wally, I hear you about the long term consequences, but maybe it will even itself out in the end!!!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Dadgummit ron you just had to do it didn’t you? now everyone is gonna run me nuts with c.Crawford today!!! LOL!!! although he is a stud and would be a great addition we already have a leadoff hitter!! GO Kelly!

By Lew

May 12, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

JoeBrave-I’m fine, Dude. Any day that sees the Mets having their a*******e$ handed to them is a good day. I guess all this shaving makes peeing on hands easier-maybe more manueverability?

By mr baseball

May 12, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Robert: You want consistency in your 3-4-5 hitters. Your fellow bloggers would like some variety in your posts. Even with Andruw staying in the cleanup spot, it’s more likely the former is going to occur than the latter. Save your redundant rants against the manager for the times he actually deserves it, which are frequent but not much lately. Wonder how many of the 3 games Andruw had the big hit the Braves would have won if he was hitting 6th?

By Lew

May 12, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

It’s got to be harder going 80 IP as a reliever. Reitsma did it at least twice and look what happened to him.

By DAP

May 12, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

mr baseball, a week ago andruw wasnt hitting anything, becuse he was pulling off the ball like crazy. since then he has made some improvements, and has had some big hits, proving the point of people on here who criticized him, and many people on here have commented on his improvements.

stop calling people out, mr baseball, especially when you havent been paying attention, and dont know what youre talking about.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

I see Rickey Henderson wants a comeback too;any chance we can get Dave Winfield to come on down to the Atl,and pinch hit for us?

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

Who in the blue hell is Rico Rossy?Nochop where are you? your making me very happy with your silence peckerhead!! I didn’t know such a a$$ whuppin could shut you up that fast!Joebrave has an absessed tooth and the pain medification is workin well,Now more where are they now muses; What about Biff Pocoroba,where is that guy?talk about the epitome of suffering man that dude did it with all the class and grace…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

looks like we’re down to a two team race now, I see the Marlnots and Philthies are sinking fast!!Now if we could just get Reyes to pull a hammy or blow out a knee the Mutts would disappear!!No man I don’t want anyone to get hurt but if today is any indication of things to come we may just pull away from the stench that’s N.Y. mutts!!But our Braves have got to do one thing: thay have got to stop making no name bum pitchers look like Cy freakin Young!!!

By Ron

May 12, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Where oh where are all those DAMN Mut bloggers at? Well if we start losin tonight, you can bet they will be here to remind us, thats for damn sure!!!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this

And where are the I miss Marcus Giles bloggers? was it just me or did he look like the same goofball that left via the non-tender deal? He didn’t appear to be all that He was billed to be when he came to town,seemed to have that same stupid swing that got him in trouble here…. just my assessment,b/c I don’t miss him one damn bit!!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Hey J.S. Todd Walker is now available here’s your chance to dump C.Woodward,Now DO IT!!!!

By Lew

May 12, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

JoeBrave-Sorry about the tooth, Dude. Been there and it’s no fun. Better be careful or the Mets’ fans will be on here telling us how hard their schedule is-that they have to play the Brewers while we play the Pirates (in those really ugly unis-what’s that all about?). I wonder if they’ll still be griping next weekend when we play the Red Sox (and I’ll damn well be there!) while they play the pitching-less Yankees?

By Carroll Rogers

May 12, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s out of the lineup tonight and possibly tomorrow because his wrists and thumbs are bothering him from the collision last night. He was having problems gripping the bat saturday morning. Chipper thinks he should be ok to play in the next day or so but definitely won’t tonight and seemed doubtful about tomorrow. Pete Orr gets the start in his place, his first start of the season.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

The Magic Number is now 127!

By Robert

May 12, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

“Well Bobby Cox could get beaned by a foul ball during the last regular season game, and remain unconscious throughout the entire postseason—then the Braves would have a chance at a different postseason outcome”

I love it

So with one more win, Donk will move past Sparky Anderson on the all time wins list. Big deal. Anderson was a DECENT manager in his time - one of those guys who left well enough alone and didnt screw everything up just by breathing on it. He is now as senile as Ronald Reagan was, but could still manage circles around Donk.

Mr Baseball - the past week, Cox has been able to nap thru games. As long as no decision making is require on his part, things will be just fine for the Braves

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Who will hit in the three hole? Francouer of McCann?

By ElbravoX

May 12, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

Finally, the Pete Orr era has begun!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Yeah Lew I know everything in life is harder for the mets than anyone else,Those poor All-star at every position guys,my heart bleeds for them:Not!!! I hope they get on a streak of 13 in a row losses that is!

By MEB

May 12, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Some days catching up on the blog is a pleasure and other days its like visiting a mental institute. Multiple personalities running amok. I think a little shock therapy is in order. So… how about Orr at third, Woodward at shortstop, and Wilson at first. Lets hope Chuckey pitches a gem.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Ron

May 12, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

I see Adam LaRoche is not in the linup tonight, are they just giving him a day off, or have they been platoning him this year? If they have been platoning him this year that may be why he is struggling!!!

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

Ahem!!!! Any comments on the dinger by Thorman? Nice at bat by Pete.

By parks

May 12, 2007 7:26 PM | Link to this

Beautifull swing by Thor

By ElbravoX

May 12, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

THOOORRRRRRRRRRRR

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

Gil, Good extension by Thorman. I’m sure that’s not what you were looking for, lol.

Nice 1st inning by James. Maybe he & Davies watched Lerew throw strikes the other night & thought they would give it a try.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

Look out cy Armas is on the mound…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

Man Chuckie is dealing and Thor is a beast!! B.C. should just bury Wilson on the bench and let the kid play!!!!1

By serbok

May 12, 2007 7:36 PM | Link to this

seems like everything is comming together:o) LF, 1B, AND the back end of the rotation???

By ElbravoX

May 12, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

THEE GUYS ARE GOOD…

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

5-0 lookin good and now Mutts your in second place for good!! How does it feel to know you’ll always be second best?

By April

May 12, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

I have a sure-fire remedy for sore thumbs. There is no reason to miss a game for sore thumbs anymore. Honey, if you are a thumb sucker this may be helpful to you, too.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

The boys are doing a helluva job of out avoiding tonight. :-) The Out Evaders! Or in human terms, they are hitting well and getting on base tonight.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

Gee, a Greg Maddux type outing… Pitch to contact and let your defense help. It is why I hate pitchers that are afraid to throw strikes and walk a bunch of guys.

Solo homers do not kill you, three run dingers will make you a loser….

By parks

May 12, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

WOW. Willie is raking

By serbok

May 12, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

is that Ralph Garr batting 2nd?

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Got to love this kid Willie C. Harris…

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this

Good grief, Willie is on fire!

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

Where di this Williy Harris come from is he Superman masquerading as a ball player and how did the Braves get him before Minaya had a chance to offer him millions?

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Way to go A.J swing at evrything thats not even close…

By Send Money,

May 12, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Johnson runs the bases like Larry Walker did in his prime.He always plays heads up, and just has an instinct that saves split seconds,which makes for fewer outs and more bases.

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 8:02 PM | Link to this

Man, this blog is dead. MBATL, blog nation turns its lonely eyes to you. Where did you go, MBATL?

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Where di this Williy Harris come from is he Superman masquerading as a ball player and how did the Braves get him before Minaya had a chance to offer him millions?

His last name did not end in a vowel, so Harris never had a chance of getting signed by the Mets.

By John Lindsey

May 12, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

Ahem. Make your proverbial ‘hay’ while the sun shines, dear Brave fans. You know the Mets are the superior team and will ultimately prevail.

By serbok

May 12, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Got to admit~ there is some sorta “magic” to the braves organization// amazing how kids like harris/ chuck thomas and others come up to the show and participate~ I must say most of that magic starts with Bobby Cox// just dont need him making moves ON the field! Are you listening Robert?

By Willy Wally

May 12, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this

We got some great out avoidance out of Willie Harris tonight. I would say he is doing some great hitting but I get browbeaten every day into being told that it is more correct to applaud his great out avoidance. Whatever.

By Sam in KY

May 12, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Anyone miss Ryan Langerhans?

By HP

May 12, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Chuck James is throwing perfect game!!!!!

By Send Money,

May 12, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this

J Lindsey The mutts have won one lonely division title,you know what they say about blind squirrels and nuts.By the end of the season they’ll be nutless again.

By brewdawg

May 12, 2007 8:13 PM | Link to this

Robert,

Seriously dude, do you not have anything but anti-B.C remarks to put up on here? Are you that limited in your knowledge of the game? Not liking B.C is one thing. You are entitled to your opinion. But when you go ON AND ON AND ON WITHOUT ANY OTHER REMARK the only person that looks like an A* is you.

By serbok

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

5 perfect innings from james~ is that a first for him?

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

John Lindsey why don’t you scroll up son and check out previous entries:I believe your beloved Mutts got their a*******es handed to them,and got them Tweezered in the same day!! Your team is not Superior,never was never will be you are second in your own city and second best in this league!!! that’s the way it has been, and the way it will always be!!! Such is life some have it,some don’t unfortunately you don’t,and now scroll up further and find out what a met is and you’ll find out what you are DUMBASS!!!

By DA AMAZIN'

May 12, 2007 8:23 PM | Link to this

NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER NO HITTER

JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX JINX

By John Lindsey

May 12, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Met fans are true metropolitans. We enjoy dry martinis, good art, postmodern literature and we are ready to share Rudy Giuliani with America.

By joebrave

May 12, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Mets suck mets suck mets suck mets suck!!!

By serbok

May 12, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

whaddya guys say about 2 innings of no hitter from Gonzo and then 2 from soriano? No hitter by committee? lol

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Chucky is going to need a couple of 8-10 pitch innings to through the game. He’s pushing 80 pitches now.

I see the wankers are out in force tonight.

By Chuck

May 12, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

Met fans are true metropolitans. We enjoy dry martinis, good art, postmodern literature and we are ready to share Rudy Giuliani with America.

John, I’m a Braves fan who’d love to talk pomo lit over a dry martini, but please, for the love of all that is good, don’t share Rudy with the rest of us!!

By serbok

May 12, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this

I dunno the John Lindsey 8:29 post somehow made me think of the Geico even a caveman can do it commercial

By Meanie

May 12, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Hey serbok what the hell is the punctuation bit? Just say what you have to say. If you somehow think you have a style or whatever then you are sadly mistaken. Makes you seem like a moron who’s desperate to look intelligent.

By serbok

May 12, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Meanie~ I dont know~ bad habit i guess never thought about it b4, intelligent huh?

By John Lindsey's Daddy

May 12, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

My son is such a DAMN RETARD, I slapp his momma everyday because of that retard!!! WHY OH WHY DID HE HAVE TO BE A MET FAN, OH YEAH I KNOW WHY, BECAUSE HE IS A DAMN RETARD!!! DUHHHHHHHHHH!!!

By serbok

May 12, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Uh Meanie~ I think you are referring to my use of tilde’s? just scrolled up and I’ve used them 3 times tonight~ now 5! LOL get a life!

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this

Great start by James, total 180 from what we saw in his last start. Roger McD deserves some credit.

If Lerew can turn out another good start tomorrow they will be in great shape. I think with each good start by the 3-5 guys there is less & less chance of having to see Redman with a ball in his hand, well at least in Atlanta that is.

By John Lindsey

May 12, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Chuck James this evening - but the degree of difficulty was not great. By the way, it would be interesting to see him install windows in Manhattan. I hope he is not afraid of heights.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Atlanta made a trade for a AAA first baseman. Name is Graham Koonce, 31 years old, bats and throws left handed.

Assigned to Richmond yesterday. Will let the rest of the blog know something when I have a chance to see him play.

By serbok

May 12, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

my bad Meanie re~scrolled~ missed one of my earlier posts that contained 2 tildes~ now I’ve done it 8 times! BTW you are correct it is a form of punctuation.

By brian

May 12, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

echo the kudos to Chuck James. Granted it was the Pirates but he looked like the Chuck James from last year tonight.

I still say no way is Andruw worth 20% of a team’s payroll or more, though I am thrilled to see Andruw start to turn it around.

Hopefully the back end of our rotation will get some confidence here. Big start for Lerew tomorrow. Another solid start and he will be in the majors for a while. Tomorrow he can make it his job to lose.

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

And now we remember why we are so fortunate to have 3 closers. Though night for Paronto.

By John Lindsey

May 12, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

Ta Ta all, I enjoyed the delightful badinage. See you again soon when you are in second place.

By Meanie

May 12, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

Just never understood why some people feel the need to inject crap into their blogs. Some hole named jd…loves to pause…as if he’s the news wire…then you’ve got some prick named Nate that just takes over the whole friggin blog responding to EVERY POST (he likes to yell in caps). Just say what it is you have to say. The tilde means nothing to anybody, doesn’t define anything, isn’t a trademark.

By TennesseePaul

May 12, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Hopefully, this game will prove that Thor should be in the line up every stinking day.

GO BRAVES

By Matthew, Dad to Walter

May 12, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Well, Scott Thorman is making a HUGE statement tonight that he deserves more ABs.

Criag Wilson, go be a DH in Kansas City, please.

No reaction to the signing of Rheal Cormier? I thought it was interesting. He always seemed to give us trouble.

Braves 1.5 game lead in the NL East. Good job Chuck James!

By Bob, journalist

May 12, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Forget the Platoon … make him a Captian and give him a Company!

By serbok

May 12, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

Really dont know or care where you are comming from Meamie// this posts for you tho:o)~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ???????????????????????????>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<*********************(((((((((((((())))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!A*******HOLE~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~_________________________________________________

By Gil In Mechanicsville

May 12, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

The folks in Pittsburg are probably thinking they traded for the wrong first baseman. Way to go Thorman. Two homers tonight.

By Bob

May 12, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Bye John Lindsey. See ya next year dude.

By DA AMAZIN'

May 12, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

The Magic Number is 126!

By Lew

May 12, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this

Gil-If nothing else, now Pittsburgh knows why we were willing to trade LaRoche. We also could have told them Roachy is a slow starter.

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

This road trip is looking good so far. Why can’t they hit like this at home? Hopefully they sweep tomorrow & take 3 of 4 from the Nats. This could easily be an 8-2 trip depending on the Boston series.

By Greg in TN

May 12, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Evening folks…

The lads of Stone Mountain win another one and we’re able to gain a game on the mets thanks to the exploits of one Ned Yost and his Brew Crew. The posts of the bitter/smarmy mets fans are sad and amusing, but mostly amusing.

Chuck James pitched great tonight. One hit over seven innings. Nice to see that happen and I hope he’s able to build on this going forward.

Nice nights by Willie Harris and Scott Thorman. I think Thor is making louder and louder arguments for more playing time with Wilson struggling as much as he’s doing.

Gil, meant to say this a few weeks ago, however I wanted to give you a big thank you for the Richmond updates. Please keep them coming. Now if we can get some correspondents in Myrtle Beach, Danville, Rome and Pearl we’d all have it made. Looking forward to seeing the Mississippi club on their first trip to East Tennessee on June 30th and I’m actually mulling over a road trip to Richmond and Danville along with a trip to Rome and maybe even Pearl if things work out.

Tonight makes five in a row. Looks like we’re making strides in the areas where we’ve needed improvement.

By Meanie

May 12, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

There you go serbok way to prove the old adage “once an a*******hole always an a*******hole”.

By N8

May 12, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

THANKS FOR THE SHOUT OUT MEANIE!!!!! GLAD TO HEAR FROM YOU AGAIN.

FOR THE RECORD YOU’VE POSTED 1 MORE TIME THAN ME TODAY, SO LOOKS LIKE YOU’RE TRYIN’ TO TAKE OVER.

Oooops. It appears as though I accidentally had my CAPS LOCK button on. Is it really neccesary to call me a prick?

Always nice to see one’s true character come out on a blog. I hope you see the irony in how much of a prick you like, by calling me a prick. But then again, maybe you can’t see YOUR PRICK, thus all the hostility. :-)

By Meanie

May 12, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

I see my prick just fine when it ain’t in your wife’s throat…

By Shagger

May 12, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Scalp ‘em - - -

What iggit do you think you are going to convince that druw is a better “D” man in center than Mays? Holy schmolie chaod man. Lose the man crush on Andruw.

On a lighter note with hints of reality mixed in, James was awesome today. I’m thinking John Schuerholz has put together his best talent in many years. It is going to be painful to watch the patent BC choke early in the post season - (and I am not talking about what he does to his wife).

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Well I guess this blog is going downhill tonight.

By mike

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

Quote by Carlos Beltran: “I was the easiest to shave. You see, I pretended that it was the 9th inning of last year’s NLCS and I stood perfectly still while someone else had their way with me.”

By N8

May 12, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

Meanie

“I see my prick just fine when it ain’t in your wife’s throat…”

Really? That’s all you got? Did your 12 yearold boyfriend tell you that one?

Come on. I know you’re MUCH more of a prick than that. Surely you can be more original. Then again…..maybe you can’t.

By Weather-or-not

May 12, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

I am really starting to like this team. This bull-pen is far superior than the the World Series team of 95. I like the roles that people are falling into. The starting pitching is starting to settle in after a little bit of a rough patch. its a long season, but I think this team can win it all!. Thematch up well with any team in baseball right now. The bench may need a little help, but other than that, the Braves will slug it out with the Mets to get the east crown. We could see a repeat of the 2001 season when the two faced off in the NLCS. I can’t wait to get down the Ted in june when the cubs are in town. I am taking my Mom to a game when she comes up from Florida. That’s my Mothers Day gift. Peace all!

By Coach

May 12, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this

Five quality starts in a row , just unfreaking believable ! Chipper is hurt , which was not unexpected , but Pete Orr at third ? call up Escobar already !

By ernesto

May 12, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Alrighty, N8 and Meanie in a battle to see who can get “read only” priveleages first. Not much to see there..

Great win. If I’m the Pirates I try like hell to sign Chuck James one day…talk about a park playing to a pitcher’s strengths.

GET OUT THE BROOM!

By MEB

May 12, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

The blog has been going down hill all day. Maybe I’ll come back another day.

See ya!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 12, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Shagger:

Step out the back door, give a good loud bleat and call your girlfriend into the house. Go swig another tall blonde, and come back to the blog when you learn to spell, CHOAD!!

Willie Mays was great - he could cover ground in center like no other. Druw is not as fast as Willie was. But, NOBODY who has ever played, in my humble opinion (baaaaaa) has Druw’s perception of where the ball is going when it is hit. The guy is freakin clairvoyant.

I remember lots of bleating here when Willie H was called up after the Langerhans trade - good speed, but can’t get on base, blah, blah blah. And remember bloggers demanding a trade for Cliff Floyd, Jacque Jones, Pat Burrell.. or, we need to sign Bernie Willians. Those of you who argued against Cairo Willie and for the foregoing, still unhappy about his being called up? 4 for 5 tonight - the guy is flat raking - shades of Charles Thomas a couple of years ago (which turned into a trade for Huddy - not a bad move JS, not bad at all).

Who here thought there was any possibility of the Blue Jays trading Roy Halladay?? Are you crazy? The guy is the best pitcher in the AL, and you think we have a shot at trading for him? Puhleeze!!

By Coach

May 12, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

Trade ? We don’t anymore pitching. We already enough horses on the mound.

By james

May 12, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Escobar went 3 for 4 and is batting 347

By fastasballs

May 12, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

Willie has been a little spark plug since the day he came up. Great with the bat, decent glove as well.

He’s been the best short term fix possible, maybe the long term fix. I’m sure he’s not going to hit .400 plus all year but .270-.300 is not out of the question.

Thor deserves his shot to play every day. He isn’t God’s gift with a glove but he hasn’t made any bone headed plays except that throw from Andruw the other day.

Wilson has shown nothing, not even promise. If he can’t put up something by the end of the month then Thor needs to be given the job full time. Even if he hits lefties poorly it won’t be any worse than Wilson, plus he will be a better player in the long run. I assume he is in the long term plans at first?

The bench needs lots of help. Orr, Woodward, & Wilson isn’t going to cut it.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 12, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Shaun:

Saw your post last night in response to my query regarding measuring how many runs a defender saved. I figured if anybody knew about this, it would be you. Interesting assay of a fielder’s contribution to preventing runs. But, as I read the stats you posted, Druw as only saved an average of 10 runs a year more than “good” center fielders? Sorry, I don’t buy that. I think that runs not scored by the other team due to his defense would be much more than other good CF, as indicated by your source. Granted, this is a difficult area to accurately quantify (e.g., making an incredible catch with no runners on - what would have happened thereafter?, and the like). But, I appreciate the response and the numbers you quoted. Thanks for the post.

By geauxbraves2000

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

Hopefully, this game will prove that Thor should be in the line up every stinking day.

That’s a good one TennesseePaul. As soon as a left hander starts against the Braves, we both know Wilson is going to be in the lineup, even if Thorman has hit 20 consecutive grand slams. Gotta have that platoon ya know.

BC is one the games best, but that platooning thing he drools over is getting really old. If Jordan would’ve stayed healthy, LaRoche probably wouldn’t have put up those numbers he did, and the Braves probably wouldn’t have Gonzalez this year.

Anyhow, great game tonight by James, by the offense (mainly Thor), nice winning streak.

Geaux Braves!!

By Scalp 'Em Braves

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

Who here believes that Escobar would be better off playing 2 or 3 games every couple of weeks, when Chipper is hurt, or needs a rest, versus playing every day at AAA? Who believes that we would be better off sitting Chipper and playing Escobar, at this stage of the season? Come on people!!! Chipper and Druw are our bellcows. Did you see, last night, when Chipper slid into 3rd, was obviously hurting, but reached out with his other arm and grabbed the base? Rookies and young players don’t have the experience or presence of mind to da that. Veterans do. I’m not crazy about Orr being the fill in at 3rd (I still hate the trade of Betemit last year - know he has been stinking it up for the Bums, but he was doing great here). But, call Escobar up when the roster expands in September and give him some playing time when we are 10 games ahead of the Muts. Not before.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 12, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

Anybody see this story from the Fox internet site?

• Centerfielder Andruw Jones entertained the crowd around his locker the other day by proclaiming, “I’m not a right field-ball hitter. I’m a pull hitter. That’s just the way it is.”

(“That’s just the way it is” goes along with his other favorite saying: “That’s baseball.”)

Jones is swinging so violently from his heels so far this season that his knees are covered by gigantic bandages and he wears a compression sleeve on his left leg. Why his stance is half a foot wider this season is anyone’s guess, but at least Jones is starting to get key hits.

“A slump’s a slump,” he says patiently. “Those things happen. It’s a long season. Sometimes you go 0-21, 0-30. I was 0-40 once before, I think. I don’t know what my streak is. I’m not worried. At the end of the season, I still will be where I want to be.”*

He is wearing bandages on his knees to reduce the abrasions from his swing? Holy cow!!!! I’m sorry, but this is the height of arrogance and defiance. He doesn’t think that it is more important to go to right in certain situations than to try to swing for the fences every at bat in his walk year? Has Bora$$ got a Bluetooth implanted into his head whispering “Go Yard, Go Yard” with every swing?

By Coach

May 12, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this

Escobar is ready , period. If you think Pete Orr will fill Chippers shoes , well , that is funny. Put Chipper on the DL , play Escobar everyday , send Pete to Richmond and then reverse it all when Chipper is ready to play again. If you follow Scalpem’s train of thought , then the Braves should have called up Iker Franco instead of Salty. Escobar is the answer to Chipper just like Salty was to McCann.

By Scalp 'Em Braves

May 12, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Coach:

Salty is getting a cup of coffee in the bigs due to Pena being on the DL. Chipper is on the shelf for 2 or 3 games, max. You are comparing apples and oranges.

By Coach

May 13, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

No apples and oranges , just oranges. Salty is a stud catcher filling in for Pena , Escobar is a stud infielder who can do the same damn thing.

By Coach

May 13, 2007 12:51 AM | Link to this

Better yet , I’ll put it like this. Orr and Woodward combined are hitting .245 they have 15 hits , 5 runs , 0 HR and 6 RBI. Escobar has 42 hits , 14 runs , 2 HR , 20 RBI and 5 stolen bases to go along with his .347 batting average. McCann meet Salty , Chipper meet Escobar.

By Ron

May 13, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

I heard that we may be interested in AJ Burnett of the Blue Jays. Thats very interesting, and very affordable compared to the market value. He makes 12 million, but if he would have been a free agent last season he probably would have made 15-16 million a year!!! I know he gets hurt alot, but if the price is reasonable then maybe we should pull the trigger. I seriously doubt we will go after anybody with that much owed, when Huddy’s salary goes up next year, and Hampton will be makin about 12-13 million next season, but I suppose it is only wishfull thinkin!!! How about this Smoltz, Huddy, and Burnett goin in the Postseason. Now that is SCARRY!!! With our Bullpen, and Offense, Hell BC could not screw that up, as long as we stay healthy of course!!!

By Lew

May 13, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

I watched Mays play for most of his career and I’ve seen Andruw play almost every game of his career. I don’t think I could choose one over the other in the outfield. Someone mentioned Andruw’s knack for knowing where the ball will come down-So did Mays. They both made it look ridiculously easy while they were doing it, too. Mays was a more complete hitter, but they would comprise 2/3 of any all time outfield I could ever choose. Clemente would probably be the third.

By Wayne in Utah

May 13, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

Way to go Chuckie and Thor-the Barbarian! I missed the game, as I was working my kiester off in the yard all stinking day.

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day!! Guys and ladies, make sure you go see or call your mothers and also take good care of your children’s mother tomorrow. Gotta play it smart.

Go Lerew!!!

By Train Wreck Bystander

May 13, 2007 2:48 AM | Link to this

Tonight’s game begs the question:

Was tonight the real Chuck James or did we see him last week against San Diego?

He sure looked good last night, but he was pitching against Pittaburgh, after all.

By serbok

May 13, 2007 3:05 AM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000 Excellent 11:11 post! very good observation:o)

By serbok

May 13, 2007 3:11 AM | Link to this

to all the other bloggers~ who blog BB~ I apologize for letting MEME get to me earlier 2night~ He just came outta left field? lol Dont need bloggers like her~ This should be about Baseball~ I took her bait~ my bad:o(

By Bigboi

May 13, 2007 3:16 AM | Link to this

I wonder why there isn’t more talk about Willie in left. The kid is amazing and it appears he’s a keeper. Any chacne he could bat lead off since Kelly seems to be i one of his long slumps? With his speed and his hitting ability, I think he would make the perfect lead off hitter.

By Coach

May 13, 2007 3:35 AM | Link to this

The Braves traded for Graham Koonce , a 32 year old 6-4 left handed hitting first baseman. The Richmond Braves that is. This kid is a real life Crash Davis with over 200 minor league home runs in 14 minor league seasons. He has exactly one major league hit , a double.

By JC FROM UT

May 13, 2007 7:39 AM | Link to this

Ron: you posted that the Braves were interested in AJ Burnette. Where did youget this information? Who would the Braves be giving up? I would imagine that Salty would have to be the centerpiece of the deal. IMO if you trade Salty you better get a starter better than Burnette. He has been mediocre at best throughout his career. If I was trading Salty I would first call the Tigers and ask for Nate Robertson and next call the Angels and ask for a package cetering on either Ervin Santana or Joe Suanders. Dan Haren from Oakland would also be a beter choice than Burnette.

By Willy Wally

May 13, 2007 7:41 AM | Link to this

Thorman has more homers, runs scored, and RBIs than McCann. It’s hard having a great hitter like McCann behind the plate. He is going to get beat up so much that he will lose effectiveness as a hitter. I wonder if the Braves will look to keep Salty and McCann and move on or the other or both to first and trade Thorman or move Thorman back out to left where he played last year. Thorman keeps hitting homers and driving in runs, some other team might be willing to overpay in a trade for him.

By Willy Wally

May 13, 2007 7:49 AM | Link to this

Willie is good but Willie is not a keeper. Willie is not a long term left field solution. Willie is what he is - a borderline major league player who has utility by being able to play multiple positions and good speed. No one is going too crazy over Willie just like no one would go crazy over Woodward or Orr if they had a hot 30 at bat stretch. BUT Willie is playing great and has given the team a great much needed shot in the arm after the painful Langerhans period. But Willie will fade and go back to being Willie and the Braves will have to find another left fielder. BUT Willie should have been here since ST - Pete Orr is just not a major league ballplayer at all. Willie Harris has done far more in the last two weeks than Pete Orr has done in his 3 seasons here. Woodward sucks as well. Prado, Escobar, and Willie should be the backups. Orr and Woodward must go.

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 8:12 AM | Link to this

Cmon,willy wally at least give Prr a break man I’m often lrft wondering why in the blue hell B.C. doesn’t use Orr? It’s not hta Pete isn’t good,it’s that the one flaw B.C. has shows in nearly every game: that is his penchant for The So Called Veteran Presence,hence his passion for p** we the fans off,by using A $hithead like Woodward,and Wilson repeatedly and knowing they are going to fail!!! unfortunately for Orr,Escobar,D.Clark and others who could be proudly doing something of worth of the major league level,People like good Ol robert have to keep expressing Bobby hate and hence to keep them amused Bobby gives them a miniscule of attention by pitching a hissy fit for Redman,and Woodward so that he can stay on an even playing field with his naysayers!!! It’s a total conspiracy!!!

By Robert

May 13, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this

“The Magic Number is 126!”

The REAL magic number is somewhere around 517

By Marty

May 13, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

Greetings from sunny Aruba. After reading Carroll’s blog and several (but not all) of the comments that followed, a few thoughts come to mind:

• Has anyone’s opinion of Thorman changed after last night? Sure, it was just one game, but when you consider that he now has five homers and 19 RBI, you have to be fairly happy with his production, considering that he only plays at most 2 of every 3 games…

• I have to agree with the fan who lamented the loss of Furcal’s arm and range at SS. Yes, Renteria is a steady, dependable shortstop with reasonably good range and an adequate arm, but during that Dodgers series I couldn’t help but notice how much quicker Furcal is to the ball and how much better his arm is. Of course, I also think that Renteria is, hands down, the better and more dependable hitter of the two. We came out of that situation in pretty good shape, I think.

• I don’t know what to say about Adam LaRoche. I had been pulling for him for a couple years before he broke out last year, and I was less than thrilled when the trade of him for Gonzalez was announced. Now, though, with Thorman hitting well enough — and, more importantly, the rest of the Braves’ lineup hitting well enough that any loss in production is unnoticeable — and Gonzalez pitching great, I can’t see how it was a bad trade for us. Sure, I think that Adam will pick it up, but even if he does return to last year’s form for several years, I think it is still a move that made sense for the Braves at the time. LaRoche is good, but he is not, and never would be, a franchise player for a first-place team.

• Last, but not least, to whomever intimated that the Braves have been making hay against bad teams and will suffer against good ones, you must be high. The Braves have played 23 games against “bad” teams (Phillies, Nationals, Marlins, Cubs, Rockies, and Pirates), and the Braves are 15-8 in those games. The Braves have played 13 games against good teams (Mets, Dodgers, and Padres), and the Braves are 9-4 in those games (including a nice 4-2 mark against the Mets).

By contrast, the Mets have played 20 games against pretty much the same “bad” teams (Phillies, Nationals, Marlins, Rockies, and also the Cardinals), and are 14-6 in those games. Even assuming that the Giants are a good team — which I don’t concede — when playing good teams (Braves, Diamondbacks, Giants, and Brewers), the Mets are just 8-7.

What do you have to say about that?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

To the many proclaimed fans of baseball here on the blog, please stop and think for a few minutes. While clamoring for a change in the “bench” players folks should remember that no major league player wants to be restricted to that role.

The facts of baseball are that young baseball players get better with repetition so even though a player may be in the minor leagues he should not be made to feel it is punishment but an opportunity to continue to get better.

I will bet that the Brave’s organization is well aware of their shortcomings but they will have to wait for a good “summer rental” to become available.

So, enjoy the ride for right now and hope the pitching continues to look this good. Another good start by Larew will go a long way in building team confidence in the back end of the rotation.

By Willy Wally

May 13, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

Joebrave, Pete Orr is terrible - a complete waste of roster space. He brings nothing to the table as a backup - weak stick, no eye, average glove, no power, good but not great speed, doesn’t steal bases, can’t play short. The only thing he has is the incriminating photos of Bobby & John he inherited from Keith Lockhart. When Chipper or KJ suffer injuries, do you really want Pete Orr to man the position for two weeks? WHy would you? As bad as Langerhans was, Langerhans was a much better hitter than Orr. What is the point of Pete Orr exactly? I just don’t get it. If the Braves cut him, his career is over - no one else will want him.

This is what Pete Orr did in the minors JoeBrave:

.265, .320, .340. (480 games). Good God, how is this guy in the majors?

It should not surprise you then that he has done this in the majors:

.276, .299, .360.

Awful. There is no upside. He is what he is - a guy who should have never made it past A ball. How is this guy in the majors? Why do they even let him bat? Seriously? Why don’t they just forfeit the at bat and get out on the field - maybe we could shave an extra 5 minutes from the game of watching the tedious inevitability of Pete Orr failing to do anything with opportunity once again. Orr is a joke. I’m tired of seeing the guy. He wears his uniform old school cool and looks the part but he is not a ballplayer. Cut him!

But maybe Joebrave wants to see more of Pete Orr because he looks the fashion sense of Orr and thinks Orr is a good looking man. I don’t know. Each man has their own priorities in what they are looking for out of a ballplayer I guess. And spare me the whole he is a tiny little white man, a scrapper, all heart, a hustler, an intelligent ballplayer, a poor man’s Eckstein - he is none of those things - he is just talentless

By Willy Wally

May 13, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

great post Marty. coming strong on a lazy sunday morn.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this

Marty First of all I am very jealous that you are in Aruba and I am not….

The winning formula has always been to beat up on the bad teams and play .500 against the good ones.

Yes, losing Furcal and gaining Renteria was almost a wash. Being in the right place at the right time was key, sometimes it all comes down to economics. I think Furcal will end his career as a third baseman. Renteria might actually be better suited to play second. Depends on a team’s needs and how much they are willing to pay.

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

May 13, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Skip said on the radio last night that the Braves had signed Rheal Cormier to a minor league deal and had assigned him to AAA, but I can’t find the story on the net.

By BIG DADDY

May 13, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

Alberto Castillo is in his 12th season and is hitting .174 for the Orioles and he never played for the Braves. For a career he is barely over the Mendoza line at .221. He has made a career of jumping from the Mets to the Cards, Jays, Yanks, Giants, Royals, A’s and now the O’s but never for the Braves.

Incidentally if you want to find out about any player just type their name into Google as follows: “Alberto Castillo stats” and it will come up.

And for that fellow who is always putting the knock on Thorman. He now has 19 RBI’s and his 5 HR’s is second only to Chipper in hitting HR’s per AB. He is close to leading the team in RBI’s per AB’s. I think he’s doing quite well.

As for Cox he is now the 4th winningest manager in baseball history and is still a bum in the opinion of Robert. One thing about Cox, he at least gets to the playoffs. Most managers never get that far. As for winning it all Cox is doing it with a moderate payroll and for $80 million you can’t have it all. Ask Torre and even Randolph. He didn’t even get out of the first round last year after winning his division.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

On Willie C. Harris…. I will be the first to admit my surprise by his good play. He did not look this good the two times I saw him play in Richmond. best thing we can do is enjoy it while it last.

Happy ballplayers are good ballplayers and Willie appears to be very happy.

One reason players like Bobby Cox is because they all get a chance to play.

Question…. Do you think it is better to play Wilson and Woodman now to see what they are capable of or wait until September and find out they are not as good as needed?

As far as putting someone like Chipper on the DL. Why would you take him out of the picture for 10 games when only a couple of days off will do?

A sweep looks very possible this weekend even without Chipper. It is why you don’t rely on just one guy in your line-up. Braves are looking pretty strong right now top to bottom. Only guy who does not look to be able to put one out is Willie and he is not trying to.

By Willy Wally

May 13, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

The Braves have signed veteran left-handed reliever Rheal Cormier to a minor league contract. The 40-year-old Cormier will report to Triple-A Richmond on Monday.

Cormier had pitched in three games with the Cincinnat Reds this season. He allowed three runs and four hits in three innings pitched. The Reds designated Cormier for assignment on April 28th and released him on Thursday. Cincinnati will be responsible for the $2.25 million owed to Cormier.

For the last eight years Cormier has been one of the most effective lefty relievers in the game. In the eight years since he moved to the pen Cormier has an ERA of 3.79. That statistic is even better from 2003 through 2006, when James posted a 3.17 ERA. He also had 73 holds in those five seasons. With Steve Colyer cut earlier in the week, the Braves need another lefty option for the bullpen. Right now the Braves’ bullpen is full, but if they do decide they need another lefty Cormier could be called upon.

Plus, with Macay McBride currently starting in Richmond to work on his mechanics, the Braves might believe he could be another option for the rotation, especially if Anthony Lerew struggles. Then Cormier could replace McBride as a bullpen option.

Cormier started his career with the Cardinals in 1991 and pitched four seasons there, mainly as a starter. Then he was with the Red Sox in 1995, followed by two years in Montreal before he returned to Boston before the 1999 season. That’s when he became a reliever and pitched two years with the Red Sox before joining the Phillies in 2001. Cormier was the main lefty in the Philadelphia bullpen until last summer, when he was traded to the Reds.

http://story.scout.com/a.z?s=260&p=2&c=643521

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

May 13, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Oakland has designated Todd Walker for assignment. How ‘bout we pick him up to complete the Langerhans deal. It’s a low risk situation for a bench player who can play 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

News from the farm This from the Richmond Braves’ News release…..

“Graham Koonce, who was acquired on Wednesday via a trade with the Kansas City Royals organization, made an impressionable debut on Saturday. After driving all the way from Omaha, Nebraska, Koonce made his arrival known. In his first at-bat with Richmond, Koonce pounced on a 1-1 pitch and delivered a two-run shot over the left field wall, to give the Braves an early 2-0 lead, in the second inning.”

Also… “”The Atlanta Braves’ Mark Redmond will make a rehab start for Richmond on Sunday. Redmond is 0-4 with a 10.62 ERA in five appearances for Atlanta.”“

By Robert

May 13, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

“As for Cox he is now the 4th winningest manager in baseball history and is still a bum in the opinion of Robert. One thing about Cox, he at least gets to the playoffs. Most managers never get that far. As for winning it all Cox is doing it with a moderate payroll and for $80 million you can’t have it all. “

I have said that Cox did a good job as GM, and even said that Cox could help any team he was with if he was used in the proper capacity.

So to say simply that I think he is a bum is not putting things in full CONTEXT (there’s that word again)

As an in game startegist manager, Cox is the bum of bums. The Braves have had incredible talent up and down and all around for the past decade and a half. Talent that’s so good that if they had a good strategist at manager, you would expect them to have at least 3, and possibly as many as 7 WS titles. They have one. And that one came when the Braves had one of the highest payrolls in the big leagues.

As many games as Cox has won, give almost any guy equal talent, and the other guy wins more championships.

Now, could the other guy have recognized all the talent as well? Maybe, maybe not

Would the other guy have won as mnay regular season games? Maybe, maybe not.

Would the other guy be as beloved by his charges and the fans? Almost certainly not.

Would the other guy have said as many ridiculously stupid one liners? Maybe, maybe not

But the Braves are in a position where they shouldnt be playing for regualr season games marks, or to make sure their players all love the manager, or for the Guiness Book on stupid one liners. The Braves should be playing for WS titles.

And for goinjg on seventeen years, they have had pretty much EVERYTHING they couldve asked for to help them get those WS titles, except a manager who knows how to make the proper in-game moves to occasionally finagle a win and to avoid repeatedly snatching defeat from the jaws of victory when matched up against playoff claiber opponents in playoff situations

The Braves fan base has so completely lost touch with what it is that a team of the Braves caliber needs to be persuing, that it’s ridiculous.

How many times have we seen bloggers here talk about the how often the Braves have “won it all” - talking about Division titles as if they were WS titles - talking about how many “rings” the Braves have (the answer is one, and that in a strike shortened season)

Cox is fourth in all time victories, second in ejections, and a runaway first in squandered opportunities.

He might be a great guy. He might have a great repertoire of baseball stories from all his years in the game. He might be able to recognize talent. Certainly he is a good babysitter. And he might give the best rides at the county fair. But to speak of this man as the greatest manager - or to even breathe his name in that context - means you are either a baseball insider who is playing the politically correct game, or ignorant as all hell

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Big Daddy go back and check your facts,Yes in the early 80’s a catcher named Alberto Castillo played for the Braves,He was a starter for a shorth while before Bruce Benedict became a full timer!!And Willy Wally I still say given the ABs that Woodward gets Orr will do better,I didn’t say he was good but he is more clutch than Woodward,or Wilson….and I agree please sign Walker NOW…..

By Tami

May 13, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

At first when this trade with LaRoche was announced, I groaned. He is a young, farm-grown prospect, and I hated to see another one go. But, I did agree that we needed MAJOR bullpen help. So, I begrudingly went along with this. What else could I do? And, yes…it looks like the Braves did get the better end of this deal. And, usually, I forget about the “former Brave” dealt away over time. But, LaRoche…he’s a hard one to dismiss. He did such great things for the Braves. I actually felt for him last night as he tried to live up to the expectations of his new team while trying to beat his old one. I truly am rooting this guy on to break out of his slump and do great things…uhhh….just not against the Braves, though.

By Jim

May 13, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

If Cormier has anything left, he could become the situational lefty we currently lack. As far as the concerns about Orr filling in for Chipper if he were to go on the DL for 2 - 3 weeks, that would not be the option. The Braves would call up Escobar to fill in for Chipper and Orr would be his backup. For now they would rather have Escobar playing full-time rather than with the frequency with which we (fortunately) see Orr and Woodward. I think that by September the Braves bench will look a lot different than it does now.

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Robert:I’m not going to get into a PiS$ing contest with you about Bobby,what I will say is you have got to be the DUMBEST SONSABITCH thath has ever lived!! Bobby Cox is a 1st ballot hall-of -famer get over it!! Better yet find another team to root for The Cardinals maybe yeah they really have a good manager!!by the way HAPPY MOTHERS DAY Carroll!!

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Braves fans I love the debates on here,so here’s one.I’d like to see everyone’s opinion for Next Years outfield,who would you like to see?

By Jim

May 13, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Robert,

Aside from your two claims about Cox letting Maddux start the 8th inning in game one of the 1999 Series (one that the Braves had little chance of winning given their injuries and the strength of the Yankee team), and bringing in Wholers to pitch the 8th and 9th innings in game 4 of the 1996 series (not a mistake in my mind), just where has Cox cost us games in the playoffs? It wasn’t Cox that pushed Gant off 1B or failed to score on Pendleton’s double or failed to get a key hit with the bases loaded afterward. It wasn’t Cox that bobbled a double play grounder on the batter before Leyritz or Cox that let the RF ump block his way to a foul pop earlier in the game. It wasn’t Cox that didn’t get the winning run home from 3B in game 5 of the division series in ‘93. It wasn’t Cox’s strategy that cost the Braves in the playoffs, but the execution by the Braves’ players and the usual shortcommings in the bullpen and on the bench.

By Lew

May 13, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Joe Brave- Let’s consider for next year that we pull in a second baseman from our farm system. We then move Kelly Johnson to left, Francoeur to center and start Brandon Jones in right. Trade Renteria and bring up Lillibridge or Escobar for short. This frees up the $6 mil from Edgar’s salary. Wicky retires, so there’s another $6.5 mil. We use that to buy a starter. That way you end up with-1.Johnson,LF-2.Yunel Escobar/Lillibridge, SS-3.Chipper,3B-4.McCann/Francoeur-5.McCann/Francoeur-6.Brandon Jones, RF-7.Scott Thorman,1B-8.Prado/Whoever,2B. How does that sound?

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

On Todd Walker… I wonder what Todd did to fall from grace with Oakland. His numbers look pretty decent. With the outfield situation being fixed for the moment in Atlanta, he looks to be an upgrade from Wilson as a right handed bat.

Does anyone know what the cost would be as far as salary? I am sure he was offered as a replacement for Langerhans.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Lew For some reason the Braves just don’t see Prado as an everyday major league second baseman. I have a feeling that outfielders as more plentiful than second basemen.

I am not sure the Braves won’t hold onto Renteria for one more year while Boston is picking up most of his tab. He is a proven hitter as well as a good shortstop.

I am, however, not going to worry too much about next year right now as we still have a long way to go with this one.

I don’t think the Braves have completely given up on resigning Andruw Jones. It is like a high stakes poker game and JS does not usually let anyone know the cards he is holding.

Nice to have options though…..

By Lew

May 13, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Gil-If released by Oakland, they should be responsible for Walker’s salary this year. I think the Braves would have to pay him ML minimum at worst.

By Jim

May 13, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Lew, Over the next few months the play of people like James, Davies, Lerew, and Thorman (plus the development of people like Harrison, Reyes, Devine, Boyer, Stockman, and McBride) will determine what our priorities are for next year. It’s too early to speculate about next year’s needs and about who in the organization may fill them.

My own observation, however is that Johnson is a better 2B than LFer and that Francouer is better in RF than CF.

This is the first team in 5 years that might have the talent to go deep in the playoffs. Let’s enjoy this one.

By Ghost of Syd Thrift

May 13, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

I doubt you would see a line up consisting of so many rookies unless there is a serious shortage of finances as the one you propose Lew.

While Bobby Cox loves young players, it is not realistic to have more than two rookies in your line up at any given time and still contend for a pennant.

I would suspect the tried and true formula of one rookie player worked into the line up to be a more likely scenario. As to where that might be will be greatly dependent on Andruw Jones next season.

By Lew

May 13, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Jim-I was merely speculating in response to a question from Gil In Mechanicsville-nothing more and nothing less-and I didn’t even speculate on the pitching staff. However, with the expected departure of Andruw, it is likely we will need to fill two outfield spots (Willie Harris is doing a great Chuckie T impersonation, but I haven’t heard anyone who thinks he’s a long term answer in left). Edgar’s salary could bring a boost in pitching-same for Wicky’s retirement. We have replacements from within on both. What’s wrong with some useless speculation? Sometimes it’s fun. Don’t worry. I’m fully tuned in to the present. Have no fear.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

May 13, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Thanks Lew, one last comment and I will be quiet for a while. Blain Boyer pitched two more innings for Richmond last night, gave up no runs. As I have not seen him pitch, I cannot give any assessment as to how he looks.

By BIG DADDY

May 13, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Isn’t it wonderful to have sush a talented and knowledgeable big league manager on this blog. Robert, how many big league wins do you have under your belt?

Geeeezzzz

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 13, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

“Happy Mother’s Day” to journalist jimmy smith!…

It would be unwise to get into a pi$$ing contest with TheJackAss—you would already be at a severe disadvantage—for TheJackAss is already much closer to the target than you are…now baseball, we shall see how good the Braves are when they play the Sox next week…

By Robert

May 13, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Jim -

Either the Braves have had 16 different horribly unfortunate things go wrong, or some thing that is common to all those failures is the root cause

Occam’s razor. “Occam’s razor” is attributed to a monk (William of Ockham, ca. 1285-1349), note different spellings. The original Latin translates loosely: “One should not increase, beyond what is necessary, the number of entities required to explain anything.” Modern versions go like: ” The simpler the explanation, the better.” or Once you understand that concept, you will have narrowed it down to 4 possibilities

1.John Smoltz - there on every team, but participated in less a third of the games and has a 2.65 career playoff ERA - exonerated

2.Leo Mazzone - once he left, they didnt even make the playoffs

3.Cox - If he didnt make the mental or physical mistakes, he WAS the man who sets the team philosophy, and who put players into situations where there chances of failure were unacceptably high

4.Schueholz - who doesnt do a full analysis of the team’s problems, because he fails to even consider the possibility that Cox could be a problem

3 and 4 are the answer.

The individual examples of mismanagement are there, and if you want me to waste a day citing them all, well, dont call me, I’ll call you

It is plain and SIMPLE logic

By Robert

May 13, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

“Occam’s Razor is a sort of credibility test, attributed to William of Occam, that holds one should prefer the simplest reasonable explanation for a phenomenon. For example, if you see size-9 footprints, you might guess they are from a human with size-9 feet, while someone who does not know about Occam’s razor might suppose they are from a dwarf Bigfoot.”

In other words, if it picks its nose, has big long ears and tail dangling out of it’s uniform, and loves carrots and sugar cubes, it’s a donkey, not a manager

Oops, in our case, it’s a donkeyand it’s our manager

By ElbravoX

May 13, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

baseball tonight is a joke nowadays…

By Richard Cory

May 13, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

joebrave -my records do not show a Castillo appearing with the Braves from 1970-1991. In 1991 Vinny Castilla, appeared in 12 games. Not trying to stir up trouble, but just curious. Who was this mysterious A. Castillo?? Little help—anyone??

By TheSouthernJackAss

May 13, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I thought Occam’s razor was used to shave the @$$es of the Mets…

Oh, my bad!…it was Omar’s razor!…

By Bob, journalist

May 13, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball,

“A week ago, 98.5 percent of the bloggers here were ready to run him out of town”, is that the new math?

Methinks most Braves’ fans appreciate Andruw’s contributions … those who found Andruw’s attitude and hitting approach to be rather pathetic included. Few, if any, want or wanted to see him leave … but I would suspect that many continue to believe that he was doing himself and the team a disservice by persisting in the use of an obviously flawed hitting approach.

Regardless of any temporary success or failure he might have using that approach, it remains inane to use it as it does not give him the best chance for success.

Few are looking for a pound of flesh … the evidence seems to indicate that he is at least modifying his approach so that it’s somewhat situation dependent … here’s so hoping!

Happy Mothers’ Day! This is a very special day for everyone, including us kids! I was telling my sister to be nice to my nephews … if it weren’t for children there wouldn’t be any mothers … or baseball. Of course, it would be nice if my son would call!

Shades of Adrian Messenger’s list … go Braves!

By Robert

May 13, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

The only thing Andruw seems to do on a consistant basis is strike out

(36 in 36 games)

He does one thing very well, which is play center field. Great players do most everything very well.

As for everyone all excited about Thorman - he hit home runs off two AA caliber pitchers, is hitting around .250, and has a K/BB of greater than 3 to 1.

He is better than Ryan Langerhans. Whoop dee do

By Robert

May 13, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

“It wasn’t Cox that didn’t get the winning run home from 3B in game 5 of the division series in ‘93.”

Interesting. I contend it was Cox who preaches a philosophy of playing for the 5 run home run as opposed to advancing runners, the occasional hit and run or steal, or heaven forbid, a squeeze.

If it’s one guy always failing to get it done, then maybe. When most everyone who plays for the Braves seems unable to get it done, then you look at who guides them and gets them ready. - BOBBY COX

By Send Money,

May 13, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

That’s the kind of heads up play by the mighty Thor-man that can’t be coached.Lerew showed some poise getting out of that mess.Robert one word MIDOL !!

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Richard I may be off on the first name but there was a catcher acquiredearly in the 80’s or in very late 79 of hispanic origin,I remember him well,b/c the Dodgers were the only team he wore out,played for Atl and later got dealt as a side piece in some trade,just a ponderance but I could swear his name Was Albert Castillo…

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Lew I like Salty rf.,Francouer cf,. Rios lf.

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

I stand corrected it was Alex Trevino that In was thinking of! thanks for making me look that up Richard!!

By Send Money,

May 13, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Ouch baby ! I stepped out for 20 minutes and the wheels came off.

By Send Money,

May 13, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

joebrave What makes you think Salty can play rf ? Has he played outfield before ? He looks heavy legged to me.

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

I told you guys the pain meds were kickin in,Sorry bout the name mixup!! Here is another then I’m takin The Wife and Mother out to Dinner,how many former Cardinals 3rd baseman have manned the same position for Atlanta?

By The Grinch

May 13, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Oh, the humanity! Salty fouled one off his toe. Is there a toe-doctor in the house?

By Lew

May 13, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

JoeBrave-Rios would be good, but isn’t he making upwards of $6 million? I’m fairly certain Wicky may retire, given that we have closers, but Rios would take all of his salary with zero pitching benefit. As seen this year, we can absorb a less than ideal situation at a postition, but not in pitching. We will have to bring Brandon Jones into the mix in the near future. I’m still uncertain with Salty. I’d like to keep him, but I just don’t see us moving McCann to another position and I’m not sure whether Salty would be better used for acquiring some more pitching talent, or playing at a different position. If we were to move Salty, I agree it should be to left, as opposed to first. Let Thorman stay. He’s going to be worthwhile. Interesting-Chip and Joe are talking about getting Carl Crawford. They should read the blog. We put that one to rest months ago.

By Lew

May 13, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Today’s not going real well for the Braves. However……The Mets just sent Pelfrey to AAA and recalled an outfielder, because Moises Alou (The Ancient One) has a strained quadriceps and is likely to end up on the DL. It’s starting to catch up to the Mets. The may have Aaron Sele start in Pelfrey’s place, or call up Vargas from AAA. Stay tuned. It’s a long season and even longer when you have so many 40+ year olds on your team. Maybe Moises needs to pee on his legs, too.

By joebrave

May 13, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

Send money: I’m saying Salty to rt field for two reasons,1 he is a big time bat you just don’t give those away,2 while he has yet to play outfield with the departure of A.J. Frenchy will take over Cf,hence the need for a new Rf,(ever heard of Dale Murphy?)and while Rios would eat Wicky’s money what about the 14.5 million you save from A.J.

By NO CHOP ZONE

May 13, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

The braves had no players(I think) that were 40+ last year and they finished how many games out of first LEW? Oh and don’t look now but the lowley Pirates are beating you’re under forty a-s-s-e-s .

By NationalLeagueEast

May 13, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Lew - The Mets just took 2 of 3 from the team with the best record in baseball, and according to you, it’s “starting to catch up” to them. No matter how hard you try to put your hometown spin on things, the Mets are just fine—soon to be back to a half game out of first. Alou goes down, and Gomez comes up—with two hits, two runs scored, and a stolen base today. And just as the icing on the cake for you, Oliver Perez pitched 2-hit ball today. You know—that pitcher who, according to you, is no good. Meanwhile, your Braves are getting iced by Pittsburgh, 11-2. Pittsburgh.

By The Grinch

May 13, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Kevin Barry’s lookin’ sharp.

By NO CHOP ZONE

May 13, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

You’re team ERA will go up a bit after todays butt kicking by the Pirates?.

By Send Money,

May 13, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

joebrave I’m not against having a look at Salty in one of the outfield spots,but the Jones kid in the minors should be ready next year.As far as Murphy he was a lean guy with a high build,Salty just doesn’t look lite on his feet to me.I can think of other guys (Puckett comes to mind)who didn’t look the part,but did just fine.I’m not sure what I’d do with the guy,maybe trade,maybe first,I still like him at catcher with Brain at first,but Thorman is looking good,so it’ll be interesting watching it all play out.An outfield of Frenchy,Jones and Harris seems the most likely three to me.

By Dan

May 13, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

So I think I’ve finally figured out the Mets fans who post on this blog.

They post when they win a game, or are winning a game.

They post when we lose a game, or are losing a game.

All other times, they are driving down Sunrise Hwy in their IROCs blasting Vanilla Ice with their collars popped and eyebrows waxed.

Or, they are busy posting on the Yankees blog to satisfy their other inferiority complex.

H-U-R-T-I-N-G

By NationalLeagueEast

May 13, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Stunning baseball commentary, Dan—and great work with the spelling. Next week: math!

By Dan

May 13, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Then talk baseball and not talk trash. Maybe you will get treated with a bit more respect.

Oh, and calling someone out for spelling on a blog? Dude, you really need to get a life.

By serbok

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

Speculation is fun:o) I just dont see why so many ppl speculate on moving johnson back to the outfield? He looks to me to be a future perrenial all-star 2nd baseman~ if he keeps up this pace of course.Great toss by kelly to first with the glove today

By NationalLeagueEast

May 13, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Dan…I fail to see how pointing out to Lew that he was exaggerating the Mets’ troubles qualifies as “trash talk.” Just because it’s not a “rah-rah, go Braves” comment doesn’t mean it’s trash talk.

Second, I wasn’t criticizing your spelling—I was pointing out how well you did sounding out the word “hurting.” I assume it was giving you trouble, as there’s no reason for a non-trash-talker like yourself to have isolated each letter. Right?

By joebrave

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

well well looks like no chop made his way out of thew mets clubhouse,Hey nochop aren’t you the one who has A$$$ hair doodie? as we all know there will be dats like this,it’s just that your team will have more than we will!!!!