AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > May > 15 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USSmoltz recovering quickly, but Andruw’s batting average….
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Just sat down in the pressbox here at charming RFK Stadium after a cab ride through this artery-clogged city, and now I’m watching Saltalamacchia practice throws from behind the plate to Glenn Hubbard at second base. Strong arm on that kid Salty, for sure….
Anyway, today’s blog. Where do we go. Let’s just dive in on a bunch of topics. And pardon any typos _ haven’t even read this over once. Will after I get back upstairs.
Oh, wait. First off, I should tell you that Salty has taken off the catcher’s gear and is now at first base, fielding ground balls hit by coach Brian Snitker and throwing to second base. Gotta say, he looks pretty good over there. Real good, actually….
OK, now back to cranking out this blog before the clubhouses open at 3:35.
Smoltz update (this part of blog rewritten after initial post): John Smoltz walked into the clubhouse at about 4 p.m., having come directly from the golf course after spending his 40th birthday with friends at an exclusive D.C.-area course. The good news: He said the right pinky he dislocated in Monday’s game was doing very well, much improved after a night of icing.
He’s optimistic about Saturday’s start vs. Boston, but won’t know until after he throws Wednesday or Thursday. Won’t pitch unless he can throw his changeup, the one pitch that requires significant pressure from the pinky.
I think it’s close to 50-50, but knowing Smoltz and the high-profile series, plus his record against Red Sox (1-0, 1.09 ERA, 4-for-4 saves, 27 K in 24-2/3 innings) and desire to stay on his regular schedule, I’d lean toward believing he’ll start. How’s that for definitive?
The finger barely looked swollen today, with almost no discoloration. The man’s got amazing recovery powers, apparently. He said he chipped and putted today with a splint on it.
And speaking of chipped (what a transition)….
The news was not as good on Chipper: Bruised palms (base of the thumb) still hurting, especially right one, and he’s out of lineup again and going to have it X-rays to make sure it’s just bruised.
Now back to the original blog, the part that wasn’t rewritten after initial post.
Andruw’s woes: Still waiting for him to get hot, with nearly a quarter of the season completed. He’s hitting .235 with four homers, and his decent 22 RBIs and solid .374 OBP aren’t enough to offset the least-productive first quarter he’s had in some time.
Andruw is 1-for-12 with seven strikeouts in his past three games, and 7-for-47 (.149) with 15 strikeouts, one homer, eight RBIs in 13 games (including consecutive game-winning hits to the opposite field, after which he reminded us both times that he’s a pull hitter, period).
But here’s the stat that might be most alarming. We all know Andruw’s capable of carrying the offense for two or three weeks at a time when he’s not, but consider how long he’s been hitting for a very low average:
Are you ready for this? In 87 games since Aug. 7, he’s hit .228 (69-for-302) with 21 homers, 61 RBIs, 58 walks, 73 strikeouts, one stolen base, a .367 OBP and an .867 OPS. Folks, that’s .228 for more than half a season by the 2005 MVP runner-up.
But it wouldn’t surprise me if he gets hot tonight or tomorrow, because he’s due and because he usually kills the Nats, moreso than any other team. Before this series, he had hit a robust .315 with a stunning 28 homers, 74 RBIs and an 1.117 OPS in his past 72 games against them, including 12 homers, 29 RBIs and an 1.166 OPS in his last 27 against them.
Then again, it’s been a while since we’ve seen that kind of hitting from Andruw against anyone on a sustained basis.
So far, it’s not been the free-agent year that he envisioned, safe to say.
Leadoff falloff: Can’t put all the blame on Andruw for the Braves’ May offensive swoon, because the only starters who are hitting are Chipper (who’s missed the past three games; no word yet whether he’ll play tonight), Willie Harris (had his first start without a hit or walk last night, by the way), McCann and, to a lesser extent, Edgar.
But next to Andruw, the chilliest spot in the lineup this month has probably been Kelly Johnson in the leadoff position. And it’s been such a sharp downturn that it’s made it more noticeable.
His overall numbers are still strong, including the third-highest leadoff OBP (.410) in the league. But Johnson is just 10-for-52 (.192) with no homers, six RBIs and a .276 OBP in 13 May games, after batting .478 with three homers, 10 RBIs and an absurd .607 OBP in his last 13 games in April.
Various numbers of interest: The two Braves with the most at-bats with runners on base are Jeff Francoeur and Andruw, with 63 each. Francoeur is hitting .381 (24-for-63) with a .452 OBP and 10 strikeouts in those spots, and Andruw is hitting .222 (14-for-63) with a .420 OBP and 18 strikeouts…. Chipper’s still third in the NL in OPS (1.047) behind Bonds (1.239) and Helton (1.059)…. Ryan Langerhans, who once again hurt the Braves by not making contact last night (his missed suicide bunt led to the tag of Kearns that dislocated Smoltz’s finger), is a majors-worst 0-for-34.
Warning, music talk: If you don’t like music, skip the rest of the blog.
No lyrics today, just wanted to put up my favorite early season CD acquisitions, most new, some older, and all purchased in past two months: Kings of Leon “Because of the Times,” Arcade Fire “Neon Bible,” Graham Parker “Don’t Tell Columbus,” The Ponys “Turn the Lights Out” (all those who like straight-ahead rock, get it), Amy Winehouse “Back to Black,” Stax 50th Anniversary Celebration (two CDs full of Rufus Thomas, Johnnie Taylor, Isaac Hayes, etc), Elvis Perkins “Ash Wednesday” (got a lot of Tom Waits in him), Arctic Monkeys “Favorite Worst Nightmare,” Jarvis Cocker “The Jarvis Cocker Record,” Bright Eyes “Cassadega,” Black Rebel Motorcycle Club “Baby 81,” and Joseph Arthur and the Lonely Astronauts “Let’s Just Be.”
Buy ‘em, download ‘em, or if you must, steal ‘em (Just kidding. Don’t ever steal. Help the artists out and buy some product.)
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Comments
By Chris
May 15, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
Salty at first would be amazing - anything has to be better than the mullet we see over there when facing left handers. Also, do you think KJ’s recent slump is a sign of just being a streaky hitter or do you see this as the surface of a deeper offense issue?
By Steeledawg
May 15, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
DOB-Have you had a chance to hear the new Wilco that was released today? I have read many good reviews. I plan on getting it on the way home today. Great blog!
By Thrillhouse44
May 15, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
First Hudson takes a liner off his hand and now Smoltz dislocates a finger…I guess toes aren’t the only body part we should worry about. Can we issue our pitchers some of Barry Bonds’ armor?
By flange1
May 15, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Did you see the ESPN post saying Smoltz WILL start against the Sox? Wonder where that one came from!
[Link] (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2871233)
By Patrick
May 15, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
I think Kelly is a streaky hitter. At least from what I’ve seen in his brief major league career he is
By Shaun
May 15, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
In case anyone missed this, here’s what JC Bradbury wrote in a 2005 blog piece:
It’s true. Fans were calling for his head and demanding he be benched. “Why is he swinging at that outside slider? He needs to hit the ball ‘the other way’ and stop trying to pull everything.” Lo and behold, here we are in the midst of an Andruw hot-streak and everyone thinks he’s finally responding to their advice. The Braves announcers aren’t helping either.
…
If anything, he’s pulling the ball more this year than he did last year. And when he goes the other way, he’s more likely to make an out than when he doesn’t. He’s yet to have a single hit to right field in Turner Field in 2005. The thing is, AJ hasn’t really made any meaningful adjustments during this year to make him hot or cold. He’s just been experiencing some ups and downs like he does every year. Overall, he’s had more ups than downs, and he’s become a darn good pull hitter.
Sounds familiar doesn’t it?
By Steeledawg
May 15, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
DOB- I have been meaning to ask you about Peter Moylan. I have been very impressed so far. I know he is an Aussie, how is he fitting in with the team, is he a good guy, etc?
By 22oz
May 15, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
Kelly is streaky. He was streaky as a rookie, although much more dramatically than he is now. Not too worried about Kelly. Now Salty taking ground balls at first, that may be interesting, although I can’t imagine him being our first baseman anytime this year. He’d definitely have to go back down to the minors to learn the position.
By Chop Chop
May 15, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
Well, the good thing about Smoltz’s injury is that it’s difficult to reaggravate a dislocated pinky. I wouldn’t be surprised if he has a shot in that finger and pitches Saturday. Dice-K is probably going to mow us down in that game, so we’ll need someone who might be able to hold the Sox to a couple of runs and keep us in the ballgame. Smoltz is our best chance to do that. He’s no Milton Bradley, but Smoltz is also a gamer.
By JasonInMaine
May 15, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
I am a little nervous about the Braves facing Dice-K. We all know what troubles they have with pitchers they haven’t seen before, let alone ones that can be dominant…
By Al B Sure
May 15, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Typical Andruw at the end of the game last night. Strikes out while falling down with a runner on second. All we needed was a SINGLE. How can he be allowed to just swing for a homer each time? He must think a Mark Mcgwire type season of .239 40hr season will get him his big contract. He should follow Francouer’s lead with the mentality of a few less HR’s and a much higher batting average will help the team more.
By rupert
May 15, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
DOB, you mentioned something earlier in the year about the braves being “bored” with lesser opponents. Do you still think there is something to that? In their recent quotes you hear an awful lot about the big Red Sox series this week.
By Shaun
May 15, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
Al B Sure,
Anything that made you believe Andruw would have got a hit if he’d changed his mentality?
I guess we are all hitting experts now.
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
THIS JUST IN: Smoltz doing great today, much improved. He’s optimistic about Saturday, but won’t know until after he throws Wednesday or Thursday. Won’t pitch unless he can throw his changeup, the one pitch that requires significant pressure from the pinky.
But he’s doing well. Finger barely swollen. He chipped and putted today with a splint on it….
speaking of chipped (what a transition), NEWS NOT AS GOOD ON CHIPPER: Bruised palms (base of the thumb) still hurting, especially right one, and he’s out of lineup again and going to have it X-rays to make sure it’s just bruised.
Getting X-ray here when technician arrives.
By Michael in Brooklyn
May 15, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this
DOB!
ESPN.com is reporting Smoltz will start Saturday vs. Dice-K. Is this what you’re hearing?
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
Rumor I hear is that there’s a chance (the inside source implied a good one) that Brayan Pena may be in the minors with Salty up for the rest of the season.
He made no guarantees. But said that it was definitely being discussed. This was Friday, I believe.
By Arkansas Hillbilly
May 15, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
Ryan Langerhans, who once again hurt the Braves by not making contact last night (his missed suicide bunt led to the tag of Kearns that dislocated Smoltz’s finger)….
Right on the money. My thoughts exactly.
By Jeff S
May 15, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this
It’s just sad that after being a superstar in the league for a while now, that Andruw can’t (or refuses to) learn how to hit to the opposite field. Why? Hitting the ball to the opposite side will not make him any worse. I suspect we come out tonight with some determination and really throttle the Nationals. Tonight’s game will reveal a lot about our overall team character, in how we respond to consecutive losses to two subpar teams.
By Jason
May 15, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
DOB, I noticed that Boyer has made a few 2 inning appearances for Richmond. The stats look good, but they don’t always tell the whole story. Have you heard any updates on him? Also, is Stockman seriously injured? He’s dominated the minors when healthy. I’d love to see what he could do in the majors.
Any chance either of these guys replace Villareal later in the season? Oscar is almost guaranteed to give up a run every time he enters the game…
By Arkansas Hillbilly
May 15, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I hope you realize what a massive can of worms you’re opening with these bloggers by mentioning Salty taking grounders at first base. I know, I know. You’re just doing your job.
By rammerjammer
May 15, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the research. Eighty-seven games is not a trend, it’s a new reality. A Murphy-like flameout may be on the horizon.
In Murph’s tenth and last great season, 1987, he hit 44 HR with 105 RBI and a .295 BA.
The next year he went 24-77-.226, and never approached a great season again, despite being just 32.
Now Andruw. In 2006, also his tenth full season, he hit 41-129-.262.
This year, at his current pace, he’ll hit 24-108-.222.
An old 30? Could be.
By Al B Sure
May 15, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I’ll go out on a limb here. I’ll say having a balanced swing and staying on your feet instead of swinging so hard your knee falls to the ground, would produce a better chance of making contact with the ball. Just a wild guess.
By Michael Scharff
May 15, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
DOB,I’m always amazed at how many persons can comment on a blog so quickly that was released dueing what is supposed to be a work day for most of us. Anyway, since there are still relatively few responses so far, I’m going to try to ask you again a question that I think got lost in a flood of responses last week. It concerns your musical tastes. First, if you don’t mind saying, how old are you? Second, where do you find the ajority of bands/singers that you listen to? Just curious, because you have a very eclectic taste in music.
By eric the elder
May 15, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
One thing that is hurting Kelly Johnson is that the word is getting around about his patience. Thus pitchers are starting him off by throwing down the middle, assuming he will take them. Kelly has had an 0-2 count a lot lately, and his walks are way down. He will come out of this funk if he gets more aggressive early. Remember the first pitch of the game home run he hit earlier? Successful hitting requires adjustment (except for Andruw, of course.)
By May Day
May 15, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
Great stats about Andruw in his last 87 games (well, not great stats exactly but great research in providing those to us DOB).
BTW, has anyone looked back at the tapes and determined whether that dramatic 87 game downturn in hitting coincided with this bizarre drop down to one knee crap swing?
From what I recall from the beginning of 2005 until about midsummer 2006, Andruw had implemented and maintained that balanced widespread stance Willie Mays had supposedly told him to adopt. It seemed to work really well - as shown by the 50 homers in 2005.
But then sometime in July last year it seems he got away from that. At first we all thought it was kind of funny and weird - maybe he just had a few bad swings or maybe he had fallen into some bad habits that would be corrected. At first, the drop to a knee off balance wild swing thing was quite comical.
BUT then it seemed that it would not go away and that this was going to be his new approach at the plate - the balanced widespread stance and swing had given way to this bizarre swing from the heels, wannabe Reggie Jackson thing, making him look like Bugs Bunny a twisting and a turning every which way trying to hit the ball.
SO, I was just wondering if the fine folks at TBS or Fox could go review the tapes and determine whether there has been a direct correlation between these terrible stats posted by DOB since August 7, 2006 and the adoption of this new crazy swing by Druw.
Has the statistical downturn coincided directly with the abandonment of the disciplined, balanced stance and swing he supposedly learned from listening to Willie Mays? I would imagine that if one looks at the tapes, they would see that he started doing the wild swing and drop to a knee thing a little bit before August 7th. I think he started doing it sometime last July and has never stopped with it. Sometimes, when you develop bad habits, it takes a while for the statistical production to take a downturn as the bad habits become entrenched in one’s hitting approach. I just don’t recall him doing this new crazy swing before last July.
Can Willie Mays show up and say hey Druw, why the hell did you stop listening to my advice?
I know Fox and TBS will not be reading this or listening to me but I think it would be an interesting research project to help explain the bad stats posted by DOB since August 7.
All I know is that I want that good disciplined balanced widespread stance back that Willie Mays preached to him.
That WIDESPREAD STANCE has given way to WIDESPREAD PANIC by the fans about his statistical downturn in hitting.
By Fred from CT
May 15, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
very nervous about chipper hope the x rays go well. salty at first interesting
By yale guy
May 15, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Well, at least if Andruw keeps this up we might be able to afford him next year…
By ssiscribe
May 15, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
speaking of chipped (what a transition), NEWS NOT AS GOOD ON CHIPPER …
Ah, nothing makes the soul smile more than great transition, even if Hoss is still hurting.
The Scribe abides.
—30—
P.S. I thought about signing everything I file today —40— for Smoltz’s birthday, but I won’t. I’m just glad he’s OK.
Selah.
By Chuck
May 15, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
Smoltz news ESPN has him starting against Dice-K. Definitely good news.
Hitting woes Patrick’s right. KJ appears to be a very streaky hitter. Not the best news for a lead-off guy.
Music note The Arcade Fire CD, Neon Bible is amazing stuff. I’ve been listening to cuts from the new Wilco CD, which dropped today, and I’m digging what I’ve heard. Highly recommended.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Good post, Eric the Elder
I have specifically noticed relief pitchers going right after him on the first pitch with a fastball.
Starters may be throwing strikes, but I think they’re still mixing it up with curves and change-ups on the first pitch.
Kelly needs to grab a hold of one of those fastballs late in the game.
By JeffS
May 15, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this
I would rather see Salty play every day in Mississippi than play every fifth day up here. Let Salty continue his schooling in AA and bring him up in Aug/Sept.
By eric the elder
May 15, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
They are just NOW doing x-rays on Chipper? Good grief, I thought they x-rayed hangnails. I assumed that was done long ago.
By KC
May 15, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
DOB: God man… please don’t type “Chipper” and “x-ray” in the same sentence again. PLEASE!!!
By brent a.
May 15, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I believe that if you look at Andruw’s numbers, you’ll see that his fall-off coincides with the trade-rumors that seemed to shake everyone up last season.
If I remember correctly, there were the Boston & Houston rumors, followed by some unnamed team claiming him off the waiver wire (on August 3rd, or 4th I believe). Then, I believe it was Saturday, the 5th, that it was announced (or determined) at AJ wouldn’t be going anywhere.
This is probably just coincidence, but interesting nonetheless.
By BamaBrave
May 15, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club…sublime… Gonna go see them in Nashville next month.
I finally get a chance to go see Brandon Jones tonight vs. the Barons. Perhaps a glimpse into our not-so-distant centerfield future in Atlanta?
By MJ
May 15, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Classy of the D.C. fans for booing Smoltz after his injury. After all he’s done in the Major Leagues those morons thought he was showing poor Austin Kearns up.
By Meanie
May 15, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Man DOB you musy be making it big time the way they’re pimpin out your name on the front page. The bold typed byline is as big as the headline.
By eric the elder
May 15, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
C’mon, DOB, don’t be coy. Is Salty’s taking grounders at 1st the same thing as Andruw’s taking grounders at short? Or is there something to this?
By Meanie
May 15, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Man DOB you musy be making it big time the way they’re pimpin out your name on the front page. The bold typed byline is as big as the headline.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
JeffS,
I agree that Salty playing everyday is a good thing. But if Bobby can get him at bats (unlike the use of Pete Orr, Woodward, or other bench players) at MLB speed and game situations, then I think it will help his progression even more.
The way Bobby works, a player is going to platoon their first year in the bigs anyway (Estrada, McCann, LaRoche, Johnson, etc.). They all pay their MLB dues in a part time role.
I don’t see making the jump in May 2007 that much worse than April 2008. I’m referencing a true platoon situation (C and 1B) where he would play play in probably 80+ games the rest of the season (50+ in a starter role)
On a side note, how does cross training a player (teaching him more than one position) diminish his skills or value as a Catcher? I’ve never understood that arguement. He won’t unlearn how to Catch.
By Charlie
May 15, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Typical Andruw…another strikeout with runners in scoring position. Why he hits cleanup is beyond me. He doesn’t seem capable, or willing to make any adjustments at the plate. Offensively he’s hurting the team. Bobby does nothing to shake things up a bit. Of course Cox is as bullheaded as Andruw is. Andruw’s numbers, with risp have been low for a couple years, This is not a new thing. Pulling off the ball is “same old, same old” for Andruw. Screwing himself into the ground is somewhat of a new twist for 2007 though. Several times in the past week Andruw has been quoted as saying, “I’m a pull hitter, that’s it.” In 2007, with risp he’s an easy out. That’s it.
By Charlie
May 15, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Typical Andruw…another strikeout with runners in scoring position. Why he hits cleanup is beyond me. He doesn’t seem capable, or willing to make any adjustments at the plate. Offensively he’s hurting the team. Bobby does nothing to shake things up a bit. Of course Cox is as bullheaded as Andruw is. Andruw’s numbers, with risp have been low for a couple years, This is not a new thing. Pulling off the ball is “same old, same old” for Andruw. Screwing himself into the ground is somewhat of a new twist for 2007 though. Several times in the past week Andruw has been quoted as saying, “I’m a pull hitter, that’s it.” In 2007, with risp he’s an easy out. That’s it.
By Kentavo
May 15, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
I wish Andruw would consent to a trade. If we could get top of the line starting pitching in return, I’d love for JS to pull the trigger. Somebody with a good, relatively young established starting pitcher - but who would that be? I don’t know, I just get so tired of Andruw. That walk-off against Philly aside, he’s almost a guaranteed out with the game on the line. He doesn’t even give the team a chance. Last night he was up in the count 3-0 and wound up striking out. And you knew it was coming. He could have at least worked the pitcher for a walk to prolong the game. Pitchers know they can strike him out.
By ncscoots
May 15, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
He won’t unlearn how to Catch.
No, but he won’t get any better at it, either, if he’s forced to focus his energies on learning a second, new position. And while he’s certainly a stud prospect, he’s far from a finished product. Trying to build major league skills at a second position will just stunt his growth at the other.
By raindawg722
May 15, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
May Day:
I think you’re right on with the timing of the knee drop with AJ. AJ has always been a pull hitter and so have a bunch of other great hitters (although I do appreciate the merits of going with the pitch and trying to hit the outside pitch to the opposite field). The human corkscrew, however, has been more recent. That swing with two strikes last night was just ridiculous.
By doug
May 15, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Bama Brave, When I saw Brandon Jones in Montgomery, he was playing left field. They had some guy whose name I can’t pronounce in centerfield and leading off. Lilibridge hit second and jones third.
By brent a.
May 15, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
For those asking,
Bobby Cox said on radio last week that Salty works out at 1B everyday.
By Cerberus
May 15, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this
Meanie, posting your usual stupid crap is bad enough once. Don’t get all excited and post twice, idiot.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
ncscoots,
I disagree with you on the “stunting his growth” as a Catcher. Like I said, Bobby platoons all the rookies anyway (if he ever became a big leaguer, he’d be “stunted” at some point).
The only arguement I can come up against it is that there’s a difference between learning a 2nd position. And learning a 2nd position at the MLB level.
I’ll argue that “stunting development” is another way to say “unlearn how to catch”. But we can agree to disagree.
By Fred from CT
May 15, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
I still say we should nail kearns with a pitch just to send the message. Don’t mess with us. We need to bring that attitude to the park.
By Carroll Rogers
May 15, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this
Backup Braves reporter seeking fan input on interleague play….Any takers? I’m working on a story about interleague play to advance the Boston series and am looking for folks commenting on whether they think interleague play has lost its lustre, or do series like Red Sox-Braves, Mets-Yankees keep it interesting. Interleague play was supposed to generate fan interest. Are fans still interested? Please e-mail me at crogers@ajc.com and include your first and last name, where you’re from and a phone number I can call to confirm it’s you. Thanks!!! Carroll
By bball
May 15, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this
To be a pull hitter don’t you have to actually hit the ball. AJ fix the swing!!!
By Bill
May 15, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
I know, I know, Salty at first. The lineup would be stronger with him there. I would hate to trade Thorman but they need pitching. Trade Thorman to KC for Zack Greinke. He’s young with alot of upside. He needs a change of scenery.
By Summerteeth
May 15, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
Chipper is the core…gotta get him healed up ASAP. Liking hearing Salty at 1B, albeit practice.
By Meanie
May 15, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this
Cerberus, i.e. Serbok the tildebeest, my PDA failed to finish downloading apparently. Sometimes when it refreshes itself double posts happen. A double poster~ I’m not ~ but thank you for attacking me in lieu of posting your normal b.s. BTW noticed you were blogging (undoubtedly among other thingsu all by yourself at 4 am. Just wake up dude?
By NRBQ
May 15, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this
This may have been mentioned before, but:
One of the announcers said after the game last night that AJ has batted with 72 runners on second or third base this season, and has driven in only 17 of them.
That’s not good.
By Braveone
May 15, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this
Here is my prediction on Salty:
He goes down to Richmond(his first time at AAA) when Pena is ready to come off DL.
He splits time playing catcher & FIRST BASE at Richmond.
If he hits well & plays 1B OK & Craig Wilson is still struggling, he will be back up in a month to be backup 1B & occasional Catcher.
What are your predictions about Salty?
By IlliniBrave
May 15, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this
Hey where are all the Andruw defenders? Usually when the bloggers dog-pile on AJ the way they are today, several idol-worshippers come to his defense. I guess it’s awfully hard to defend a .222 BA, a %31 strikeout ratio, and the lowest projected homerun total (24) of his career. I agree with those hoping for a trade for a quality pitcher. But I think we’re dreaming if we think any team will want his $14M salary. Not for that kind of production. Heck, those are Ryan Langerhans kind of numbers!
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this
I think top to bottom of the lineup obp is one of the most important stats.Andruw’s four spot is one that needs to bring um in however and he’s leaving way too many runs on the bases for a cleanup guy.I’m wondering what the market will be for him if the season plays out this way.Even at his best he’s been limited by his inability to adjust,and more specifically his bailing at the low outside pitch.On the other hand he’s been a lock for 100 rbi and he saves 2 or 3 bases a game on defense over the average center fielder.I’m guessing he’ll get his 18 million and be in the hall of fame one day. Still there will always be a qualifier when he’s discussed.
By BamaBrave
May 15, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
Craig Wilson may be an OK dude…I don’t know…but to me he’s the most un-Brave-like looking guy we’ve had on the team in some time. It’s not just the hair. He looks like a waiter.
By serbok
May 15, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
I~ only post under one name! Also do not attack other bloggers regardless of how I feel about them P.S. I think you meant tildebeAst
By Jim
May 15, 2007 5:39 PM | Link to this
I hope we keep Salty through the Fenway series (at least). Let him catch and McCann DH. This gives us our strongest lineup and gives McCann 3 days off from catching.
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this
Chuck, ESPN has absolutely no news on Smoltz that they didn’t take from wire services and what we’ve written. It’s undecided for Friday, and won’t know until after he throws Wednesday or Thursday.
By the way, Pena also looked very good making throws early today and is hitting well in BP. He’s eligible to come off the DL Friday, and I’d imagine he’ll do so without a rehab assignment (I only say that because it seems he’d already be on rehab assignment if he were going to do one).
By T 2 the D
May 15, 2007 5:47 PM | Link to this
I think everyone’s getting into the SALTY mania a little prematurely. Yeah, not doubt he’s cut at the jib, but Bobby will not rush him. Remember, it was Smoltz that ordained McCann.
I see Salty behind the plate NEXT YEAR and McCann at first. McCann’s a power spray hitter who works the count and could compete for many years batting titles. His swing isn’t as pure as Hoss’s but his eye is. Comments?
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this
Jim interesting idea on McCann DHing in Boston.I won’t be surprised to see it happen.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 15, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
investigative reporter jimmy smith here. let’s say a sore thumb is slow to heal - so slow that x-rays must be taken to see if there is a break … and if there is a break - oh, the humanity! let’s not think about it. we need that bat in the lineup! let’s take this one step further, say, x-rays are taken and there is no broken bone … what could the matter be? unless, there is a web - that’s right, a torn web! what if there is a web that has been torn and that is what is causing the soreness? not sure, just guessing. rumors about the toes have never been confirmed. still, this is a long time for a sore thumb. four games missed for a sore thumb and smoltz will pitch next turn when the pitching-hand pinky was almost wrenched from the talented pitcher’s body. and what of this inter-league play? jimmy smith would like to see a lot less of the division rivals and a lot more of the rest of the national league. journalist can take or leave the games with the american league. seems to take away some mystery from the world series to this journalist. and dob has a new transition of which to be proud. and dob is ignoring the many compliments from this journalist for toe and pinky journalism. modesty, perhaps. and now, memorial day again … pie. apple pie, probably. pie for certain. and now, does this mean salty may stick and wilson be gone? not likely. last year it was “p” players and this year it is “w” players (not wicky, though). wilson and woodward are two pretty bad w players. wedman, too, silly wabbit. and soon a new song will be posted for musical enjoyment.
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
Jim, good point on Salty DHing at Boston. Might be reason enough to keep him through the weekend, let him or McCann DH and play both of them (because with Chipper, he can either play or he can’t, but hitting is what’s bothering his hands, he’s fine fielding and throwing).
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this
Serbok, much as I hate to agree with Meanie, I think he was making a play on words involving your punctuation mark of choice, and the Wildebeest (or White-Bearded Gnu), which does not have an a at the end. He’s still a dick, though. :-)
By journalist jimmy smith
May 15, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this
and who can resist this old favorite …
The Bird on my Head (words in brackets are sung by the bird)
I’m just sittin’ in a vacant lot with a bird sittin’ on my head I’m just sittin’ in a vacant lot with a bird sittin’ on my head Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world What have you done to me? I belong in someone’s arms (and I belong in a tree)
Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world This is no kind of life I should have a house and bed (and I should have me a wife)
We’re just sittin’ in a vacant lot and we haven’t got a dime The bird and me, lonely as can be, we’re together all the time
Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world What have you done to me? I belong in someone’s arms (and I belong in a tree)
Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world What I say is no lie We’ve been sittin’ here so long (that I forgot how to fly)
I’m just sittin’ in a vacant lot (and I’m sittin’ on his head) (both) The things we want we haven’t got need a tree and house and bed
(both) Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world What have you done to me? (He belongs in someone’s arms) and he belongs in a tree
(both) Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world This is no kind of life (He should have a house and bed) and he should have him a wife
Wicked, wicked, cruel, cruel world What have you done to me? I belong in someone’s arms FADE (and I belong in a tree)
By serbok
May 15, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this
Grinch~ Thanx for the enlightment:o) That one went right over my head.
By serbok
May 15, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this
the post is much funnier having understood it now:o)
By Kentavo
May 15, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this
I can’t wait for interleague play - to see those stellar DHs Cox will trot out there, such as Orr, Woodward and Wilson.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 15, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this
compare to the hartebeest that does have an a … jimmy smith is a bit homesick with all this talk of beests and kalimbas. now, in uganda there is a remedy for sore thumbs. it is a radical procedure and jimmy smith will not discuss it here unless chipper misses another game tomorrow. but the braves have never listened to jimmy smith about toes, it is unlikely they will listen about thumbs. sounds like a sprained thumb to this journalist. is this thumb stable or does it wobble around? metacarpophalangeal health is important for stability.
By May Day
May 15, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this
Carroll, there are no starters and no backups on this team - only teammates. One for all and all for one. We got the teamwork to make the dream work, Let’s Go, Let’s Go ….. ah, never mind. That song won’t work. It’s a lame song for a lame team that correctly thinks it to be Amazin’ when they win a division title every 20 years or so.
By Ron Roberts
May 15, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this
DOB discussing Saltalamacchia shagging grounders at first….
… freshly opened can of worms, anyone?
The blogging cattle have some cud to chew on (again) for a few days.
Good news on Smoltzie. The guy;s a rock, but I’ll take a series loss to the Red Sox if it means his fully healing instead of playing through a nagging injury that he never shakes all season, and thus isn’t as effective as he has been. I think that’s partly been Chipper’s problem in past seasons…chomping at the bit to get back - and too soon.
Just one man’s opinion.
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this
Eric the Elder, there’s definitely more to Salty taking grounders at 1B than Andruw taking them at SS.
Because Salty would almost certainly have to move to 1B if the Braves keep him. Andruw obviously isn’t changing positions and is just having fun at SS.
By geauxbraves2000
May 15, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this
Phew, long day in surgery today. Just kidding.
Huddy is going to have be on tonight. Jerome Williams is one of those type of pitchers who seem to give the Braves fits, you know, the high ERA type pitchers. No Chipper, AJ might as well not be in the lineup right now, other bats struggling a little bit. Nothing like a 15 run 25 hit attack to get those bats going :)
Let’s Geaux Braves!!
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
Yeah…what Jimmy said. Speaking of Jimmy: Jimmy, why are you worried about Chipper missing an extended amount of time? That was the whole point of signing Wilson and Woodward to twice what Daryle Ward would’ve re-signed for. Do you not follow and appreciate the logic? I mean, suppose we’d just re-signed Ward to pinch-hit, back up 1st and DH in interleague play, then brought up Escobar or Prado at what we’re already paying them to do what Woodward’s doing (whatever that is). Then we’d have been in the uneviable position with that extra 1.5 mil to put it with the 750k spent on redman (plus whatever we gave Sturtze)and gotten someone who could actually pitch instead…THEN where would we be? Think, man; think. Pining for the Ugandan wiles has short-circuited your cabeza.
By Dave
May 15, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this
Eric the Elder you are right on about the word getting around the league of KJ’s patience at the plate and working the count. The thing I hope that he doesn’t start doing is thinking too much about his BA and start swinging for the fences. He is a good hitter, he just has to keep doing what he has been doing and he’ll be fine. I had my doubts about him going in to the season but the guy is a major league hitter and a better than average fielder at second.
By JJMB
May 15, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this
DOB, The Shield is going to be radical tonight dude.
By May Day
May 15, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this
Phew, long day in surgery today.
geauxbraves2000
Whew! I hear ya on that bud! That was a tough one. Luckily, we’re the best brain surgeons in town. Oh yeah, I forgot. I’m not a brain surgeon like yourself. I’m merely a rocket scientist. It’s not easy being such a smart guy who talks so stupidly like myself on a blog.
I have a question: Why does Smoltz hurt his pinkie, Chipper hurts his thumb, but Mike Vick can not hurt the Dirtie Birdie he loves to flash at drunken fans? It would seem to be more appropriate for Vick to injure his fingers than Smoltz or Chipper. I dunno. Instead all Vick hurts are poor little doggies.
Instead of Chipper having feet problems, it would also appear more appropriate for Marcus Vick to have feet problems since he likes to use his feet to stomp on defenseless defenders laying on the floor.
Oh well, life ain’t fair.
By Ron
May 15, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this
If we dont beat Williams then we are in deep sh!t this season, I will be worried about this team!!!
By Jeffro
May 15, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this
If anybody wants to argue whether you luck to get anywhere in life just look at those last two plays.
By Jeffro
May 15, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this
Andruw didn’t strike out!
By LA Brave
May 15, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070515&contentid=1965887&vkey=newsmlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb
jeez, i don’t know if it did this right but you guys can copy and paste it if it doesn’t work. it’s an interview with smoltz at mlb.com
By Greg E
May 15, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this
Dave,
Id really love to see a piece done on Andruw’s woes for the season, in addition to the notebook pieces that are seemingly becoming daily about how poor his swing looks. To me, not a big enough deal was made recently about his comments of being nothing but a pull hitter.
Andruw has always prided himself on being a premier defender in addition to a valuable weapon in the lineup. Right now, he is strictly a liability. You have bases loaded with the game on the line and two outs and your cleanup hitter is at the plate, as was the case last night, and you’d like to feel confident in this situation. But most people know at this point, if you’re busting him away, you can more than likely strike him out because he is so stubborn.
I noticed half way through last season that he was flying open and landing on his back knee after many of his swings. This was when his downslide started. If you look at film of his best hits this year, his swing resembles that of old times; it is balanced, he attacks the ball, and keeps his shoulder in.
I really wish someone could research his swing and do a piece on the Andruw before the ground-touching knee swing, and the effect such an ugly long swing has had on his production. I think it is long overdue and I wish someone would get into his head and make him realize how much money he is losing himself right now.
Even as a Braves fan thinking of his impending free agency, this does nothing for me. Even if the Braves are not going to pay 18-20 million a year for one of the games premier players, they also wont pay 10-12 million for a premier defender who is too stubborn to make adjustments at the plate.
By Micah
May 15, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this
Interesting not to see Patty Griffin Children Running Through, Wilco Sky Blue Sky (FYI, Wilco is on Letterman tonight), or Son Volt The Search. But, still, a pretty damn good list for best of year. And, give Corinne Bailey Rae a listen if you like the soul from Amy Winehouse…good stuff!
Here’s to hopin’ Huddy gets through the first inning. It was always the the litmus test for how his start’s were going to fair. Ah, what am I sayin?!??! Huddy has been lights out all season!!!!!!!!
Go Braves!
By eric the elder
May 15, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this
Some of you folks know the rules well, so I pose this to you. I’m not suggesting that we would/should do this, but …
Andruw has a no-trade clause, but suppose JS finds a trade that is too good to refuse. However, Andruw invokes his right. Here is where the question begins.
How much hardball could the team play with Andruw? Suppose they say, “Fine, but understand that we aren’t going to re-sign you, and if you refuse the trade, then we will bench you for the rest of the season. Think about how that will affect your free agency. Moreover, you will still be required to suit up, do all the drills, make the road trips, etc. If you refuse to do any of those things, then of course we will suspend you without pay.”
Again, I’m not saying a team would do this or that it should. My only question is whether a team COULD do it.
By Chipper
May 15, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this
simpleton jimmy smith if you’re so homesick for Uganda then why the hell don’t you take your webbed a* back over there, you oaf. Gotta be compulsive obsessive disorder or something messing with your little brain. Get help! Before it’s too late imbecile! Maybe you’re just not very bright. A little dull on the edge. Bi-Polar?
By May Day
May 15, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this
Watching Andruw swing like this - herky, jerky, twisting, turning, dropping to a knee - is like watching a pitcher fly open. The pitcher will throw more strikes if he is not doing that. He will be able to use both sides of the plate, better able to utilize more pitches. The same is true for a hitter. As Greg E indicated, the longer the hitter and the pitcher stays balanced by keeping their front shoulder in, the better both the hitter and the pitcher will be. I think everyone but Shaun agrees with that.
By geauxbraves2000
May 15, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this
Okay, I’m officially pinning a new nickname on AJ. He is now “Corkscrew Jones”. No disrespect intended, whatsoever, he just swings so hard at times it appears he’s going to screw himself into the ground.
For all the offensive AJ bashing I’ve done today, I truly hope for his sake that he can get it turned around. He can carry this team when he’s hot.
So, with that, go get ‘em Corkscrew!
Geaux Braves
By ellaguru
May 15, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this
Dave, I’m saving a copy of the new Dungen CD for you. They just…rule. They’ll be on your list, guaranteed.
By Jeffro
May 15, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this
Andruw with the bases loaded-
strikeout? double play? pop-up?
Does anyone have a prediction?
By Jeffro
May 15, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
Mine is strikeout swinging on the knee
By Jeffro
May 15, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this
What a lucky Mother F..er!
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this
Andruw pointed to that spot,well maybe not.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 7:53 PM | Link to this
Mc looks a little stressed to me.I hope that big contract isn’t getting heavy to carry around.
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 7:55 PM | Link to this
Langy plays a creditable center field; good for him. Ellaguru, what does Dungen sound like?
By Robert
May 15, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this
(Raising his hand)
Oooh oooh oooh! Mr Cox! Mr Cox?
I have a question.
Um, dont you think , like, maybe, like, it might be better for Andruw to be taking extra BP instead of taking infield at short? Provided, of course, that he doesnt wear sunglasses on his cap during the extra bp sessions.
Just silly me, wondering. Not like I’m questioning your HOF intellect.
Oh one more question. Can I have one of your carrots?
By Robert
May 15, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this
(Raising his hand)
Oooh oooh oooh! Mr Cox! Mr Cox?
I have a question.
Um, dont you think , like, maybe, like, it might be better for Andruw to be taking extra BP instead of taking infield at short? Provided, of course, that he doesnt wear sunglasses on his cap during the extra bp sessions.
Just silly me, wondering. Not like I’m questioning your HOF intellect.
Oh one more question. Can I have one of your carrots?
By Robert
May 15, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
(Raising his hand)
Oooh oooh oooh! Mr Cox! Mr Cox?
I have a question.
Um, dont you think , like, maybe, like, it might be better for Andruw to be taking extra BP instead of taking infield at short? Provided, of course, that he doesnt wear sunglasses on his cap during the extra bp sessions.
Just silly me, wondering. Not like I’m questioning your HOF intellect.
Oh one more question. Can I have one of your carrots?
By chrisklob
May 15, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this
BamaBrave,
As a former waiter I take great offence at that remark.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this
Watching Hudson this year compared to last,the biggest difference other than results I see is he’s using better machanics now.Last season he was whipping (literally)his body. Now he’s dropping his anchor leg,driving,and following through.This obviously makes him more effective now but should leave him fresher as the season wears long as well.
By Ed Glennon
May 15, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this
I noticed that Richie Sexton hits fourth a lot. He makes even less contact than Andruw. Do you think they have clauses in their contracts to hit fourth?
By N8
May 15, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this
Just got home. Looks as though things are going well in the game.
Couple of notes.
1) Salty/Thorman platoon at 1B? Music to my ears. Not just because I think they will succeed and we need to do what we can to see what Salty can do with the bat (which I do), but so I DON’T have to watch Craig Wilson do his best Andruw Jones impersonation ever again, unless it’s one of our pitchers throwing low and away sliders to him. :-)
2) DOB, somebody made mention of Andruw taking grounders at SS, then you stated that he’s doing that just for fun. You know what would be fun to see? Andruw taking EXTRA BATTING PRACTICE WITH TP SO HE CAN ACTUALLY MAKE CONTACT WITH THE BALL! Sorry, couldn’t resist.
3) I hope Salty (if he succeeds) is up to stay. That would be fun. But very good points about Salty being the DH (or catching and letting McCann DH) while in Boston. Nothing wrong with that plan, even if they send him back after the weekend.
Any word on who goes “down” if Pena is activated and Salty stays with the big club?
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
It’s just a matter of time before Andruw damages his right knee with that swing.
By Conrad
May 15, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this
As a former devout Braves fan and a current Nats fan (I always said I would change my allegiance from a lifelong Braves fan to the DC team if the Expos ever moved here), I am really enjoying everyone hating on Andruw…word is that he will be wearing a Nats uniform next season in the new Nats stadium. First Kasten, then Sutton, then Langerhans, and Andruw most likely by next year. When are you guys gonna send Chipper and Frankie?
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
I admit, I doubted Hudson could get back to where he was in Oakland.He didn’t, he just ran right past it.This is the best he’s ever been,and it ain’t close.
By Conrad
May 15, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
A-Ville Ranger…I agree, this is absolutely the best that Hudson has been. I am glad I picked him on my fantasy team! I believed when everyone else doubted!
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this
This is truely great pitching from Hudson tonight.I can’t see a difference in his delevery on any of his pitches.Damn !I jinxed him,first base runner.
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
“Didn’t tail back like he thought it would…” BS, that caught at LEAST two inches of the inside part of the plate. That walk most definitely shouldn’t have been a walk. Where did this Hudson come from? He’s freaking awesome.
By Sam in KY
May 15, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this
Good for Langy!!!
By geauxbraves2000
May 15, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this
I know nothing about pitching, but how can a pitcher just lose it all of a sudden? Within 3 batters, Huddy lost the pefect game, the no no, then the shutout. What happens?
Still a great game by Huddy.
Geaux Braves!!
By JJMB
May 15, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
Hey Grinchy, Did you fix your Monte Carlo? What is it? A 305?
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 15, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
So, Langerhans gets his first RBI as a Gnat against Hudson… Go figure…
By Efrim
May 15, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
Can we score a quick three runs and end this game……
By Efrim
May 15, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this
GET PETE ORR OFF THIS TEAM!!!!!
By jsizzle
May 15, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
DOB - my guy “booge” and joe simpson were just discussing all of the injuries around both leagues this season, how it seems there are more players hurt than ever. is there evidence that this might have something to do with mlb’s new, more strict steroid testing (i.e. players not using anymore) or is just an unfortunate coincidence?
i would try to include obvious examples, but i don’t know any, pretty much because i’m not sure who to believe when it comes to the actual percentage of players that were allegedly cheating(?) during the ‘steriod era’
by the way, i caught some of the game last night on the nationals broadcast on an espn breakaway from the mets game and was fortunate enough to hear a little color commentary from don simpson! ah, good times.
By MEB
May 15, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
I wanted to see a no-hitter in the worst way! Dang!!! Then we lose the shutout to Langerhans of all people. Very poor pitch given to Langy but I’ll give him credit for not missing it.
Look out its Ray “Burger” King on in relief.
By Beth in P'Cola
May 15, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this
Good ole Ray … just looking at him gives me a chuckle …
By Kevin
May 15, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this
Grand slam Aramis Ramirez, 7-1 cubs
By joebrave
May 15, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this
this game should have been a blow out but A.Jones strikes again OUT that is!!!!
By N8
May 15, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
Hey, almost forgot to mention this, to add to the “the no-hitter was more news-worthy than Smoltz’ injury” conversation me and a few others were having last night.
I live up in Twins territory, so take it for what it’s worth. But the capsule this morning in the local paper devoted a paragraph to the “near no-hitter” by Bergmann, another to the details of the game, NEVER mentioning Smoltz even leaving the game.
That doesn’t make it right or wrong, it doesn’t make ME right or wrong, but it sure does give a clue as to how everybody outside of Braves Nation was (or wasn’t) really concerned about it.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this
Hudson is so intense I half expected him to yell F**K !! when he gave up that run.Speaking of madd dog this may be the best a Braves starter has pitched since Mr Maddux in his prime.To give what Maddux did credit he pitched this good or better for seven strait seasons(one in Chicago and the first six here) we’ll never see his equal.
By eric the elder
May 15, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this
The ball hit Andruw’s bat. Things are looking up.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this
DAMN !! There ain’t nothin wrong with Andruw’s D.How many guys catch that ball,that’s two bases.A base saved is one earned.
By bobo
May 15, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this
We all know that catching is physically hard on a player and full time catchers don’t last as long as other position players. I think it’s time that MLB looks at what the NFL is doing with running backs, who have about the same level of obsolescence. If you have a catcher who is a top notch talent, and more importantly if you two of them, why not see if both can play first base and give them a chance to stay in the game without logging all of the innings as a catcher? Assuming Salty is the talent he appears to be, why not use him at catcher 2 games out of 5 and McCann the other 3? You could have them both play 1st one game and sit one game as needed and theoretically extend the careers of both. This is based on the theory that 1st base can be played by both guys. I think Salty, for sure could learn it, and if McCann could, it would keep both in the lineup and more productive. One downside of this is that I really like Thorman, and Pena and think both will be productive players over the long haul, but with less trade value than the other two.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
bobo not a half bad idea,it won’t happen baseball is too slow to change.Still a good idea though.
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 15, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this
Any chance Diaz could platoon with Thorman at 1st? I realize $2 mill is alot for a pinch-hitter (Wilson), but Diaz is not an automatic K.
By Eric from MO
May 15, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this
I have no problem with Andruw being a pull hitter. He was a pull hitter in 05. If he would just go back to that stance he could be great once again. I have been one of the biggest AJ supporters but even I am starting to get tired of his falling down. I dont say drop him yet, only because he does have 3 walk-offs/game winning hits in the last 2 weeks and he also leads the team with 10 go ahead hits. However if his numbers dont start improving in a month drop him.
I have no problem with Kelly being a streaky hitter. One of the reasons he is a streaky hitter is because he makes adjustments and he makes pitchers make adjustments. Pitchers used to throw balls to him on the first pitch now they throw strikes on the first pitch. Kelly will adjust and when he does he will go on another tear.
By Ron
May 15, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this
Gonzalez is comin in to a 5 run game against the Nats, Why not Paronto, Villerial!!! Not trying to b!tch, but this is rediculus, thats why we did not bunt Orr to second to save the bullpen for this SH!T!!!
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this
Top three in the order are 7-for-12 with six runs and three RBIs tonight. Not bad without Chipper in there.
… And now Gonzalez gives up triple and Bobby and Bubba (trainder Jeff Porter) are on the way out to see him. Uh-oh.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this
Another way to go would be having Salty and Brain switch between positions one game at first then switch to catcher,or some other combination of full game play.That may be too disruptive to team continuity,but as long as we’re throwing out ideas,why not.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this
DOB, Its been a while since I’ve been on this blog board. I want to ask you first why the AJC is no longer sold at convenience stores,restaurants,etc. here in Southwest Ga. ? Secondly, I saw that Ryan Edwards-Scissors Langerhans was now with the Nats ? I thought he was traded to Oakland ?
By Ron
May 15, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this
This is Bullsh!t, now Soriano, it is a 4 run lead, thats like having a 10 run lead. It did not look like anything was wrong with Gonzalez, and if it was BC seemed like he knew something, and if he knew something before he warmed up, why the hell did he even warm up for the game and then come in the Game, Something does not seem right!!!
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this
By the way, if any of you collect sportscards check my Ebay card auctions out. You may see some you like. My id is rwsportscards. I sell for fun on Ebay and use any money made to buy the players cards that I collect.
By ncscoots
May 15, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
Why, yes, let’s have McCann and Salty play two positions! Of course! And maybe throw some BP! and do clubhouse laundry! and, and, oh, I don’t know, we’ll think of something else to keep them busy! How tough can it be? Yeah, yeah, that’s the ticket!
Fellas, if you want to see one very good hitter, and one who may be, go right in the toilet, ask them to divide their concentration on two totally different positions requiring two completely different skill sets. Neither would play either position well enough, and any chance of concentrating on their swings would make the lottery look inviting. Oh, you might find a pitcher or two aghast at that idea as well.
By keylargo25
May 15, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this
I don’t know why anyone should be surprised about AJ having a sub par year. All I know is AJ is about the LEAST clutch player on the Braves despite his status. He is on a yearlong choke because this is CONTRACT year and he is going to have the opposite of a career year to cash in.
And on the subject of teaching Saltamacchia a new position because he is blocked by another stud - McCann in this case. I think this is about as bad a choice as can be made. The man is a catcher. He has great potential at that position and has spent all of his life learning and perfecting the nuances of the position. It’s sort of like hiring an engineer to fill a journalist position because he has great potential as an engineer.
By Eric from MO
May 15, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
Kentavo you were talking about using Orr, Woodward, or Wilson as the DH, if I had to guess Salty will stay up another week or two just for interleague and DH. Just a hunch, I havent heard Cox or Schuerolz talk about it.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this
Thorman has earned the right to play 1B lately. I’d put Salty at 1B though if Thorman lapses into a big slump. McCann should stay the catcher because of his natural continuity with the pitchers.
By Chad
May 15, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
I am sure Gonzalez came in because he hasn’t pitched in the last three games (Not since game 1 of the Pirates series) and he needs some work. I am not watching the game but DOB is the injury serious??
By bobo
May 15, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this
At the risk of being obvious, it seems to me that Chipper is really fragile. I know that tumble the other day was pretty dramatic, but geez, how many NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB guys take falls that hard, and much harder several times a game without missing a week. I’m a big Chipper fan, and few players rise to the occasion like he does, but man, he “breaks just like a little girl”.
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this
JJMB, its the stock 305 HO with the smog control thrown in the trash and Flowmasters added. With a 3,73 gear and the 700 4r tranny it moves pretty good for a fat car. Alas, I went to try Berigan’s method and the battery was dead. I’ll get back on it this weekend. I’ve also got a 375 HP 350 w 25,000 or so miles in my truck I may switch over…the A/C (which was just totally redone on the Monte but is absent on the truck)’s gonna be a pain. We’ll see.
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
May 15, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this
robdawg
What part of southwest Georgia? We don’t have them here in Americus either.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
First off, Catchers have moved to other positions before (biggio, murphy). Outfielders have moved to pitcher (wakefield).
Ever read an engineering magazine? Yup, those journalists are engineers.
Nobody knows how good Salty could pick up another position until they try (more than likely, he has played more than one position in his life). Same goes for McCann.
Just because you want to be stubborn about it doesn’t make you right. Fact is, salty is blocked. We’re on a budget. And if Salty wants to contribute on this team, he’d better have a 1B mit.
By Eric from MO
May 15, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
Keylargo how can you say AJ is the biggest choker on the team. He leads the team in 10 go ahead hits and has 3 walkoff hits. Sounds pretty clutch to me.
Also let me remind you Furcal’s contract year where he hit .210 the first half and everybody was begging the Braves to cut or trade him. Then he dominated the 2nd half and everyone jumped on his bandwagon and begged the Braves to resign him. Im not going to guarentee AJ will do the same but I am going to say it IS pretty likely.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this
Albany area (Sylvester) ghf. No AJC’s for sale since January here.
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
ncscoots don’t be a dick.
By tom
May 15, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
Does meansonny like men? I do.
Meansonny: interested?
By count_schemula
May 15, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
We finally have the Hudson we’ve been paying for. He’s on a mission. 1.77ERA
I love Andruw, but, his swing is just flat painful to watch, and this goes back to last season. I can’t believe his back has been able to deal with it. Or more accurately, how much longer is his back going to be able to deal with that corkscrew drive yourself into the ground swing? His D has always been worth 20 RBIs, but, at this point, he should be batting 7th.
Is anything more satisfying that watching Rafael Soriano? Wickman goes to a set-up role if you ask me, no disrespect to the veteran.
Call me a party pooper, but I don’t come to the AJC Braves section for my music reviews, ok.
By Kevin
May 15, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this
Mets lose 10-1, we’re back in first
By keylargo25
May 15, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this
Biggio was moved to second base because he had great speed and they did not want to kill it by catchng him. Murphy was moved to centerfield because that is where all his throws to second ended up.
By JJMB
May 15, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
Grinch, You’re going to swap motors? It just gets interestinger and interestinger. The Shield is on, later.
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
1st base for Salty is better than trading him, but y’all don’t seem to have seen his arm. 1st base would detract from what is about 40% of his inherant value, which is his rocket arm. He should catch, and McCann move to 1st, or he should play LF where he could throw runners out all day in addition to smacking HR’s. Do y’all even watch the games you comment on?
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this
Count Andruws D is probably worth 60 rbi.As for his swing it’s his right knee I expect to go first.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this
Bobo,
Although I laugh at baseball injuries that have occurred the past 30 years, baseball is a finesse sport. Even the term “power hitter” requires finesse and touch of the bat.
For a football fan, it seems weak. But in reality, MLB level baseball requies a lot of things to be in sync
(For the record), hitting a MLB fastball is not the nardest thing to do in sports. Cornerback covering 6’4” WR with 4.3 speed is (anyone ever watch pro’s versus joe’s)
By Typical New York Guy
May 15, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this
Who-hoo we’re in first by a whopping 1/2 game, oh no, we’re in second by a half game. Booooo! you guys suck!!! Where’s my yankess hat?
The Queenies booed a rookie tonight after strking out in his final at bat. He was 2 for 5.
Nice folks.
By keylargo25
May 15, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
Eric from MO I have been on AJ’s bandwagon from the start up until he went into this funk and developed his bad attitude with Pendleton and the rest of the coaches whose job is to teach. Do you think he could (or should) do better. I certainly have a sense of hopelessness with the game in his hands.
By bobo
May 15, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
I’m just sayin’, how many catchers can you recall with 15 year careers (at catcher)? If you have 2 studs that can play both positions (and that isn’t a given) why not let them split time behind the dish and ease the wear and tear? It is a little radical for MLB, but I think it would work for the right guys. McCann is a proven stud at catcher and it looks like Salty may be as well. It would mean either trading one, or finding a way to keep both. Moving one or the other would reduce their value, but if you split time and both prove over time to be able to handle both positions, you really have some value.
By ncscoots
May 15, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Grinch, re some of our posters watching the games, I would remind you of the eyes that cannot see, LOL. As for me, my old bones foretell a flood of championship-caliber cluelessness swamping the blog, so I’ll bid you adieu, good buddy.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
Keylargo,
I like your respnse. That’s pretty good.
But Salty will move to 1B because he’s blocked (or be traded, which would have to be a deal we couldn’t refuse).
Grinch,
I’m with you. McCann’s bat is all-star calibre and should be used everyday. Plus, I cringe at the foul tips that miss his catcher’s gear. Those have to affect his at bats.
And Salty has that gun of an arm.
But I don’t see McCann taking one for the team (nor the team asking him)
By The REAL Grinch
May 15, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
I AM THE GRINCH, NOT THAT OTHER GUY. HE HAS BEEN POSTING UNDER MY NAME.
WHO ARE YOU, YOU COWARD SOB? REVEAL YOURSELF IMMEDIATELY!
AND WHO IS THIS DISGUSTING “TOM” WHO KEEPS POSTING GAY CRAP?
By joebrave
May 15, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
Nice win tonight,I also noticed the Mets scheduled another A$$ waxing tonight,this time courtesy of the Cubs,looks like we are closing in on the best record in baseball!! Now if we could just get A.J. to quit swinging for the country mile;Quite frankly I think his contract is eating him up may be time to move on,we don’t need him anyways!!!
By Ron
May 15, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Why is everybody assuming Salty will play 1B, he will probably learn how to play LF, and dont give me the he is too big sh!t!!! I like Thor where he is, he has not got a fair chance to produce more, he will be a Klesko clone, and that is a good thing!!! Salty will be a beast in LF in Atlanta in 2008. Mark it down!!!
By Efrim
May 15, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Hey I don’t know why this isn’t being addressed more but,
WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO GONZO???? IS HE OKAY???
He better be……..
By Meanie
May 15, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
Grinch
Just got home to find you calling me a dick. I am appalled as I have been a fan of your work. Interesting word though… someone calls you a dick it’s an insult, but they call you a big dick and it means you’re the man. I don’t know. Glad to see a win at any rate and thanks for explaining my wildebeest reference…
By Gil In Mechanicsville
May 15, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
All this talk of players changing positions….Not going to happen this year. Maybe in the off season but not right now.
With the Braves win and Mets loss, we should not be inundated by Mutt bloggers for a day. :-)))
By Ron
May 15, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this
Lets start the Salty for Crawford rumors again!!! Rumors are always fun to talk about even when more than half of them never happen!!!
By A-ville Ranger
May 15, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this
Grinch I don’t see Salty in left field, the arm is a minor consideration out there.It’s the legs and glove that pay the rent.I just don’t think he would be fast and agile enough to be a good fielder and BC is big on a strong defensive outfield.Brandon Jones should be close to ready next year and Harris is looking good so I’ll be surprised if they seriously consider putting him out there.
By Robert
May 15, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this
The good news is that we’ll be able to afford Andruw next year. The bad news is that Donk will continue to bat him 4th.
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
X-rays on Chipper’s hand negative,nothing broken.
Gonzalez is totally frustrated because he was throwing only 82-83 mph tonight and felt no pain. Has no idea what’s wrong with him. Swears his elbow felt fine, nothing hurt anywhere in arm, and said he wouldn’t lie about that.
He’s genuinely perplexed, hopes it was just a bad outing, but doesn’t know why his velocity was down so much. Said he was frustrated to come out, but respected Bobby for doing it in the pitcher’s interest to avoid possible injury. Bobby said he just didn’t look right, with the gun readings and all, and he wanted to get him out because of it.
By bobo
May 15, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
Ron, I don’t get why folks are moving Salty to left. The best player on the team the last 2 weeks has been Willie Harris. I’m guessing he won’t hit 400 for the year, but I love his hitting, fielding and base running. I know a lot of guys have been great for a couple of weeks, but I don’t see why this guy can’t be productive all year.
By Meanie
May 15, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
meansonny I am a HUGE football fan (double entendre…I’m a fatass that loves the game) and I staunchly disagree about covering the receiver being harder than hitting. A tall, fast receiver can be neutralized by playing team defense. That batter’s box is a lonely place…just you holding an odd shaped round piece of wood waiting for a man with a great arm to throw a round ball at you 90 mph with movement. Oh, and you’re told to take your round bat and hit the round ball squarely. Gimme the receiver. At least I can give him gator arms with a big shot to the ribs…
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this
Did anyone notice the radar gun with Gonzo throwing?
I’m assuming that they noticed the velocity down a bit before he got out there.
He sure got tagged a bit by those righties.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this
Andruw should do like Tony Gwynn did and go back and watch the past film of when he was hitting well. You can lose your mechanics and set up at the plate easily. I used to lose mine all the time when I played baseball and softball. You forget where to stand in the batter’s box,how far apart your feet were,how high your hands were,etc. Repetition is the key to success.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this
DOB, can you answer my questions please ? Why no AJC’s for sale in S.W. Ga. and how did Langerhans become a Nat (traded for whom with A’s) ? Thanks.
By Me
May 15, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this
Robdawg: let me get this straight. You’re comaping Andruw’s experience at the plate to your softball experiences?!? LOL. Fricking preposterous.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this
Bobo, I’m with you on Willie Harris in LF. He has been sensational and I love his speed. Going 2 for 4 every game is pretty much a given with him it seems.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this
Me, its all the same. Andruw’s mechanics at the plate are messed up. I actually compared him to Tony Gwynn and threw myself in there so you know I’m talking from experience. I’d bet you if he watched video of when he was hitting well and adjusted that he would start hitting well.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this
Meanie, I’ll happily disagree with you.
On pro’s vs. Joe’s, they had MALE CHEERLEADERS who never played baseball take a couple of shots to SS from Rob Dibble.
But on the football field with 50 yards of open space ahead of Rison, it was TD’s all day.
You can’t coach speed (athleticism). But a fat out of shape ballplayer can protect 17 inches of home plate.
By Me
May 15, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this
Robdawg: quite reasonable. Watching videot and not corkscrewing himself.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this
Me, check out Albert Pujols’ stance and mechanics. He is very still and looks the same every at-bat. The best players take the same swings over and over. Sure they make outs but as long as their mechanics remain then the hits will soon follow. When Andruw was on fire last year he wasn’t corkscrew swinging at all like he is right now.
By Robert
May 15, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this
On a music note - Joan Jett and the Blackhearts played the Great Plains Coliseum in Lawton last Friday
She actually still looks quite good, and she ROCKS
The crowd - small, and kindly scraggly, but hey, it was fun
By Robert
May 15, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this
“By the way, if any of you collect sportscards check my Ebay card auctions out. You may see some you like. My id is rwsportscards. I sell for fun on Ebay and use any money made to buy the players cards that I collect. “
Now THAT brings back memories of the early 90’s, when Atlanta was the epicenter of the sportscard universe. Made a lot of spending money hustling at shows -
You got any use for a couple of hundred Upper Deck Steve Avery or Marquis Grissom rookies or some 96 Topps Series 2 (Andruw rookie!)
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this
Tony Gwynn preached watching video tape of himself to keep his same swing and stance at the plate. Tony was a career .320 + hitter too and 1st ballot HOFer. Its all about wanting to be the best and doing whatever it takes to achieve it.
By Robert
May 15, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this
“The good news is that we’ll be able to afford Andruw next year. The bad news is that Donk will continue to bat him 4th.”
That wasnt me that posted that, FYI
I woulda called it bad news and worse news
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this
Lol Robert. I collect Chipper Jones GU cards,auto’s,and inserts. I have over 5,000 of his cards. Some dupes of course. I never grew out of collecting cards.
By robdawg06
May 15, 2007 11:03 PM | Link to this
Later everyone. 6:00am comes too early for this Braves fan. We need Chipper back at 3b fast. Go Braves !
By KC
May 15, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this
Gonzalez throwing fastballs in the low 80’s is perplexing, and more than a little disconcerting.
By Ron
May 15, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this
bobo, I said move him to LF next season, not this season, and yes Willie Harris has been Sensational so far for us, but he aint our future Outfielder, if it aint Salty, then it might be Brandon Jones, and Blanco!!!
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 11:10 PM | Link to this
A quote from Nats reliever Jesus Colome, who got behind in the count 3-0 against Andruw with two on and two out in the ninth Tuesday, then came with three straight fastball.
Andruw took two, then swung and missed the third.
“It was in the middle,” Colome said. “I don’t know how he missed the pitch.”….
Joan Jett indeed still rocks her a$@ off, and you’re right — from what I could tell of her recent TV interviews and appearances, she looks good, especially after the life she’s lived….
Oh, and forget moving Salty to left. That ain’t happening, not this year, barring some injury or absolute emergency. Hasn’t worked out there at all.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this
Reminder for a few folks about the 2007 season.
Both Willie Harris and Scott Thorman are platooning, which means that there’s room for another bat somewhere there.
I think the Diaz/Harris platoon is working fine.
I don’t need to comment about 1B.
By meansonny
May 15, 2007 11:15 PM | Link to this
KC,
I think I saw a slider (thrown for a strike) clocked at 69 MPH.
That kind of loss of velocity is scary. Hopefully, the ship will be righted against Boston.
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this
Meanie, if you really happened to post today under the same name as someone else here who posts regularly under that same name…I humbly apologize. It wasn’t aimed at you; it was aimed at…well, unless something mighty godawful strange happened, you. However, since I added a smiley face at the end, don’t take it too much to heart. I know who you are and I also don’t much give a %$#@, so there wasn’t any malice involved. Cheers!
Robert, Joan Jett has been hot for about 25 years and counting. Unfortunately, her favorite thing to munch on is carpet.
By Efrim
May 15, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this
He took an MRI like a month ago and everything was fine….
If he is having trouble again, than something is wrong. 10 mph loss in velocity seems to me that he has a tired arm. Lets shut him down for a few days and then see where his velocity is on Friday…..
By David O'Brien
May 15, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this
BamaBrave, let us know what you think if Brandon Jones. From what I’m told, he’s got huge offensive talent, a good-not-great arm, and is more a right fielder, than center. But could play center.
By brian
May 15, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this
any chance when chipper returns from his injury he steps into the cleanup spot which keeps Johnson, Harris, and Renteria in front of him. Edgar looked pretty good tonight in the 3rd spot and we definitely need more production out of the cleanup spot.
Either that or the Braves will have a decision to make if Johnson’s swoon continues and Harris’s hot bat continues.
If Chipper goes on the DL, I would expect to see Yunel get some regular starts. As much as I like Pete Orr he is not an everyday player.
Go Braves
By The Grinch
May 15, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this
Salty in left, Brandon in right, Francour in center…sounds good to me.
We don’t need to lose Gonzo, period. One doesn’t just lose that much velocity all of a sudden without a problem. Not good, Hank.
By 96,sc
May 15, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this
Every time I’ve seen Brandon Jones, he was in left field. He also looked good at the plate
By Lew
May 16, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this
To whoever said Salty would lose vlue by moving to another position-Not if we keep him. Then we lose nothing and gain another well hitting (we hope) position player.
By Jared
May 16, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this
Looks to me like Gonzalez has come down with Mark Wohlers syndrom. Its all in his head.
By gotigers72
May 16, 2007 1:01 AM | Link to this
With Smoltz Saturday [maybe] and Hudson Sunday, that will leave the Braves with 3, 4 and 5 going against the Mets next week. Not a good scenario, but maybe they’ll come through like they did in Pittsburgh, at least 3 and 4 did. The Mets lineup is much better than the Pirates though.
As far as interleague play, as a fan, I like it. However it should be more of a level playing field. I agree with Chipper there. We play the Red Sox 6 every year, and the Mets play the Yankees 6 every year. Those are always among the strongest teams in the AL. The other 3 NL East teams play the Red Sox and the Yankees every THREE years and then only 3 games. Philadelphia’s regular interleague opponent is Baltimore. When’s the last time they had a winning record? Florida’s regular interleague opponent is Tampa Bay who has never had a winning record, and Washington/Montreal’s regular interleague opponent is Toronto who is decent some years, but never on the level of the Red Sox or Yankees. So how fair is that? That could cost the Mets or Braves a playoff spot. But as Chipper said, and I concur, Bud “s**t for brains” Selig does not care about fair. I like interleague play because I get to see players from the American League. Got to see Jeter, Mariano Rivera, etc. a couple of years ago. Also have seen Manny, Big Papi, etc. If they had had interleague play earlier, I would have been able to see Mickey Mantle, Yogi, Yaz, etc. But the playing field needs to be level.
I am tired of all of the sports highlight shows talking about the 3 “great” shortstops in the NL East and always leaving out Edgar. He is on their level and even better at some aspects. He doesn’t steal a ton of bases like Reyes, but he stole 17 last year. He doesn’t make a lot of flashy plays, but doesn’t make a lot of errors either. Just a good solid major leaguer and as Joe Simpson calls him, a professional hitter.
Comparison of stats: BA - Edgar - .327 Rollins - .287 Reyes .335 Ramirez - .345 Edgar’s right up ther with’em. OBP - Edgar - .380 Rollins - .342 Reyes - .411 Ramirez - .366 Edgar is 2nd. HR and RBIs - Edgar - 6HRs and 23 RBIs Rollins - 9HRs and 25 RBIs Reyes - 2HRs and 23 RBIs and Ramirez - 8HRs and 13 RBIS. Only Rollins has more HRs and RBIs. 2006 OBP - Edgar - .361 Rollins - .334 Reyes - .364 and Ramirez - .353. Despite the fact that Edgar stole less bases than all of them, his percentage was about as good as any of them except Rollins who stole an incredible 36 of 40. [So why doesn’t Charlie run Rollins more?] Anyway, I think it’s time Edgar starts getting mentioned with the better SSs in the NL East, and the NL overall [Hardy, etc.]
By Bob
May 16, 2007 1:08 AM | Link to this
Why is HE still batting fourth? Bobby Come - On!
By Coach
May 16, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this
Regarding Salty , a catcher who can hit for power and average is a rare commodity in baseball. However , a catcher who hits for power , average , switch hits and has a bazooka for an arm is a freak of nature that baseball has never seen before. His ceiling behind the plate is limitless and moving him to first will only hurt his game behind the plate. Salty want’s to stay behind the plate , it’s his desire to be a big league catcher but he is open to change if neccesary. Let’s be logical about this. Thorman is 25 , plays 1B and makes the league minimum , plays solid defense , hits for power and average. McCann is 23 , catches and we already know everything about his intangibles. Francoeur is 23 , ditto. Kelly Johnson is 25 , former first round pick and is impressing everybody with his play at 2B. Chipper is 35 , has bad wheels , is an all-star when healthy but we all know he is a huge injury risk at all times. He is a borderline hall of famer whose contract is up after next season and logic dictates that if he continues to have health issues there is no way in hell that the Braves would give a 36 year old third baseman with bad wheels another long term contract. So , logic dictates that either Salty or McCann have a real good chance (probably Salty ,I said probably !)to end up at third sometime in 2009. the only way the Braves would trade Salty is if somebody made them an offer they could not refuse , otherwise , a trade just isn’t happening. Please don’t bring up the outfield , Salty has never been an outfielder. Saltalamacchia says he played third base and first base in high school. And , just for fun— not on the instructions of Braves management— he often takes ground balls at first base during batting practice.
By Sergeant Salmonloaf
May 16, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this
Hiya, DOB…
You have great taste in music! I noticed you like Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. You’d probably really like VietNam too. Checkem out: their album Past Away is best. Also, Steeledawg is right: the new Wilco rocks!
By joebrave
May 16, 2007 1:55 AM | Link to this
Earlier I tried to post now maybe Charter is up for the rest of the night.
Gonzo is ok he’ll be fine:A.J on the other hand is not…
Bobby is doing a fine job took Gonzo out He said (just to be sure). Langy was traded to Oak for cash or a player to be named,who then traded him to wash for Chris Snelling…
Robert is the Tom imposter…
And remember there is only one DOB,one SJA,one LEW,ONE peckerhead named nochop,one Grinch,and one JOEBRAVE,so to all imposters get your own damned name keep it and be a man or in some cases a ladyboy!!!!
By Wayne in Utah
May 16, 2007 2:23 AM | Link to this
You tell em JoeBrave! I guess nobody wants to be Wayne in Utah, huh!!
I too agree coach, that the only way you trade a talent like Saltalamacchia is if you get overwhelmed. In that I am talking about a Matt Cain or a Jake Peavy type overwhelm. Young, years from free agency, and with a rocket arm.
I think in due time that the particulars will seem to work themselves out. Who knows, maybe if he is THAT good, you move McCann to 1B or use him to get a #2 or #1 starter (I can hardly believe that I just wrote that…….)
I really would love to see some other auditions on the big club: Escobar if Chipper goes on the DL at any point. Blanco or Brandon Jones if Willie drops off. Lillibridge if Rent-a-SS or KJ miss some time. We also have a kid down there that is/was on the DL, named JC Holt who had some good numbers early.
Lastly, I would love to see Harrison or JoJo get a start or two, depending on how our #4 and #5 pan out.
Time to hit the sack.
Oh, and most importantly: JAZZ WIN! JAZZ WIN!! JAZZ WIN!!
We are off to the Western Conference Finals! Check me out in the stands. I will be the old, gray headed fart yelling his head off in Section 129, Row22 With the seats I can afford, I can see Japan from there!!
How’s it going out there Mitchie-san! I can see you from SLC, UT in my seats at the arena!!
By Steve-O
May 16, 2007 2:41 AM | Link to this
Any word On Gonzo?? Im a little worried…….He says he’s fine/felt fine…yet he lost 13 MPH on his fastball again??
By Wayne in Utah
May 16, 2007 2:43 AM | Link to this
Is it time for Pete Orr to get his “ingrown toenail” fixed??? He is making a good case for a callup of Escobar. Hey, what could it hurt?? Two weeks at the show might answer a few questions about the kid.
This JC Holt I mentioned earlier has come back since May 10th with a vengance. Also, KK, the first baseman at Myrtle Beach is hitting much better, and is clubbing the ball pretty good. How much does Buddy Carlyle have to do to get a call up from Richmond???
By berigan
May 16, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this
On Baseball tonight, they said over Tony Gwynn’s entire career had 44 multi double games, and 34 multi strike out games!!!!!!
How many Multi strikeout games does Andruw have just this year? I know, Tony wasn’t a power hitter, but, he was a relentless worker, BP for hours, watched tape of games for hours….
Didn’t we hear something about Andruw watching tapes? Is he only watching his homers? Doesn’t he know by now he will get some breaking pitch over the outside corner just about every time he has 2 strikes on him? Even a dope like Jose Canseco had a different swing with 2 strikes.
What A.L. team will want Andruw now?
By Ronbastic
May 16, 2007 7:01 AM | Link to this
Salty at first? Why? Thorman has been pretty decent out there. Maybe let Salty platoon with Thorman (remove Wilson), but that’s about it. I like Thorman’s intensity and he can hit the ball hard. I can see him being a good power hitter one day (a la Dunn). If anything, I think Pena is the one to go (or get traded) to make a spot for Salty, but just to give the superior hitting Mccann a day off every once in while. Go Braves!
By JasonInMaine
May 16, 2007 7:09 AM | Link to this
I hope Gonzo is alright…we need him if we are to make the playoffs! I like the idea of Salty taking grounders at 1B as well as the idea of him catching and letting B-Mac DH in Boston.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 7:59 AM | Link to this
Gonzalez is definetly hurt bad. There is something wrong there. Kiss the playoffs good bye without that guy……
By Yars
May 16, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this
Watching the game last night on SportSouth, Joe Simpson stated that KJ is not nearly as aggressive as he was in mid-late April. Perhaps he’s right. KJ has had a lot of 3-2 counts the last few weeks & has wound up striking out in a lot of them. Still, I would not be worried at all. KJ’s average is still solid, he’s scoring runs, his OBP is still very high, & above all, he’s playing solid defense at 2B. I wouldn’t be surprised if Bobby gives him the day off on Thursday so he will be fresh for the BoSox series this weekend.
By Ricardo
May 16, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this
On Gonzo - If they need to shut him down for a few weeks to chase this thing out of his arm (or head or where ever it may be), then so be it. If you drop 10 mph on the fastball, you ain’t right. It seems like something is festering with him. He’s “ok” but he’s not. IMO, put him on the DL call up Rheal Comier (I know - I butchered that) and let’s see where we go. Of course, this is assuming it’s not a long term thing like an elbow or shoulder. As much as it would hurt to loose Gonzo, at least JS had the foresight this year to have some good options waiting in the wings.
By Jersey Gil
May 16, 2007 8:26 AM | Link to this
DOB…i need you input of the BRAVES SALES TO LIBERTY…..”One of the provision for MLB to approve the deal is to Keep the Payroll above 80 Mil or close to that….WHY? MLB want that provision…if we been discriminated?How about the mets payroll…or Yankee..or the Angels.i Don’t understand why? Can you explain it…
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 8:51 AM | Link to this
Yars,
I think teams are starting to figure out they need to throw Kelly Johnson strikes because he’s not going to get himself out chasing balls out of the zone.
My guess: Johnson will make adjustments, go through four or five more hot spells, and end up with an OBP around .340-.360 with 15-20 homers.
If the pitcher throws Kelly Johnson a first-pitch strike, he has an excellent shot at getting him out (his OBP is .288 after 0-1 counts this season).
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this
By Lew
May 16, 2007 12:36 AM
To whoever said Salty would lose vlue by moving to another position-Not if we keep him. Then we lose nothing and gain another well hitting (we hope) position player.
I think they meant Salty probably has more trade value as a catcher. In other words, he would be more valuable to the Braves if they traded him rather than moving him to another position because the Braves could get more for him.
There are a lot (relatively speaking) of cheap, good-hitting firstbasemen and leftfielders around but not many good-hitting, good-defensive, switch-hitting catchers around.
Obviously the Braves would have to make the right trade (which I’m sure Schuerholz will do) to maximize Salty’s value.
By Meanie
May 16, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this
Personally I don’t see any urgency to trade Salty. It’s great that he’s up during this stretch so that he can play in the AL parks. If he shows that he’s a star in the making then we sit in the cat bird seat. If he is as good as advertised , can you imagine the bounty we could get in the offseason for McCann? Make someone else give up two or three good players for one.
By im4ball
May 16, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this
I do not see why Cox keeps sticking with Andrew Jones. I don’t deny that he is one of the best defensive CF ever. However, he is just not a good hitter. Andrew has a huge hole in his swing (down and away…especially with something offspeed) and every team exploits it to the point that he has become a liability in the line up.
To this point, Andrew seems defiant in not trying to fix his problem. Why not bench Andrew and try Willie Harris in CF and Diaz in LF….given that I doubt the Braves will sign Andrew next year, they need to be auditioning someone to take his place anyway.
The Braves also need to find a reliable fith starter. Why not look at Tyler Yates….he seems to be a guy with all the pitches and stamina to be at least a 5th starter.
By Frustrated, Inc.
May 16, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Andruw Jones has to be the dumbest person on the planet. I have never seen a veteran MLB player look so clueless at the plate. Really bad pitchers just toy with him and good pitchers make a fool out of him.
While Chip is out the lineup should be:
1. KJ 2. Willie H 3. Renteria 4. Frenchy 5. McCann 6. Thor 7. Dummy Druw 8. Orr 9. Pitcher
By meansonny
May 16, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this
Meanie, I’ll happily disagree with you.
On pro’s vs. Joe’s, they had MALE CHEERLEADERS who never played baseball take a couple of shots to SS from Rob Dibble.
But on the football field with 50 yards of open space ahead of Rison, it was TD’s all day.
You can’t coach speed (athleticism). But a fat out of shape ballplayer can protect 17 inches of home plate.
By Lee
May 16, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
Braves announcers had announced on the radio over the weekend (Pete on Sunday I think) that Salty had taken ground balls to first at batting practice. So apparently he has been doing it for a few days. It is amazing the things you hear on radio and not on T.V. when you listen to the game. Also the pre / post radio show before and after the game. More info than T.V. that is for sure.
Braves back in 1st place today and that always make for a pleasant day………right Mets Fans.
By Savannah Guy
May 16, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this
Andruw…Mr. Consistency
Might be me just reading too much into the stupid at-bats and silly smirks of Andruw’s while he’s at the plate, but he almost seems to be stubbornly trying to prove his goofy stance and flailing swing is going to begin working…in spite of TP’s or anyone else’s advice.
Trouble is, he gets just enough hits and RBI’s to convince himself that he’s swinging ok…but those stats lie. Seems like 80% of those are seeing-eye grounders or bloops off the end of his bat. I’m sure he also feels redeemed when he hits one into the bleachers. But even a blind hog stumbles over an acorn now and then.
For his career and for Braves success, a trade would be a win-win. He’ll probably do great with a new AL team…that is, until he gets “comfortable” there.
As far a clutch hitting and consistency goes, you can only be sure that he’s going to see low, outside pitches and and chest high fast balls, that he will drop to one knee after wildly missing, time after time. Well…I guess that’s consistency.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
Meanie,
I agree. No urgency to trade Salty. I think the Braves would rather trade him in the off-season when teams are evaluating their organizations and trying to figure out which players to keep and get rid of. I think that’s when he’ll have the most value.
Unless of course a stud player becomes available that the Braves believe can push them over the top in a playoff and/or World Series run.
As far as McCann, I think the Braves are committed to him so Salty will be the odd man out. McCann just signed a long-term deal plus as we all know he’s from the Atlanta area which means they may get a discount the next time his contract is up.
By Lee
May 16, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this
Andruw is simply too good defensively to ever bench. It almost appears he makes at least one spectacular catch every game that saves a run or prevents a productive inning by the opposing team. Braves need him this year to make a run for everything. Next year I agree with most of you - he’s a goner with what he going to demand. I would suggest he not sign with Yankees or Red Sox - their fans are not as forgiving as Braves fans. If A-Rod got booed by Yankee fans can anyone imagine what will happen to A.J. with those notorious batting slumps.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this
You can’t coach speed (athleticism). But a fat out of shape ballplayer can protect 17 inches of home plate.
Not sure what comment this is a reply to and I’m sorry for jumping in, but protecting home plate and hitting a ball hard enough to get it through (or over) major league defenses are two different things.
I’m pretty sure there are a lot of guys out there who can “protect the plate,” even guys who can make contact with 90-mph fastballs, but aren’t major league hitters and may not even be minor league hitters.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this
Lee,
I obviously agree with you about AJ being benched. But I would also add that you can’t bench AJ because he hasn’t been that bad with the bat and he could break out at any time.
He’s still done a good job this season of extending innings (check out his OBP). His power and base hits will eventually come around to his normal levels.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
I would suggest he not sign with Yankees or Red Sox - their fans are not as forgiving as Braves fans. If A-Rod got booed by Yankee fans can anyone imagine what will happen to A.J. with those notorious batting slumps.
I don’t know. I think Andruw’s walks would be more appreciated because the next hitter(s) in one of those lineups would just pick up the RBI. And Andruw may not be hitting cleanup so he wouldn’t be getting criticized for not doing what he’s supposed to be doing—getting hits with runners on instead of walking.
By jason
May 16, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
I saw it mentioned in an article on a Mets site that they should be willing to give up either Humber or Maine and Lastings Milledge to get Salty. If that were the case, wouldn’t that theoretically give two us young, cheap, and pretty decent options to fix our needs? Milledge could be Andruw’s replacement if he works out, and we can spend that money to fix another need in the off season.
By Lee
May 16, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
Shaun
No doubt about Andrew not hitting clean-up for those 2 teams. Probably 6th or 7th is more likely. I agree his power numbers will come around but I expect them to be in the low to mid 30’s this year and the batting average may be his career worse. This is going to hurt some of his market value.
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this
Shaun:
Do you know of a free site that sorts ERA by starting pitcher only? All I have found lists ERA leaders with starters and relievers lumped together.
EVERYBODY
If the All-Start Game were being held this weekend, which Braves would be on the roster? IMHO, Renteria, Hudson, Smoltz, McCann, and Chipper Jones have earned spots if the game were this weekend (Kelly Johnson would be on the fringe).
Also, what are Huddy’s chances at a Cy Young? He’s already at 5 wins, with the season 1/4 of the way over, all nine of his starts have been quality starts, and his ERA is 3rd best among starters at 1.77 (as best I can tell).
All the Huddy bashers who showed up in the offseason, I hope he is meeting your expectations.
One other thing Shaun (and any other stathead), how much emphasis placed on quality starts in stathead circles. It seems to me that QS is a pretty good indicator of how well a pitcher is faring. Even if he is walking guys or giving up a few hits, he is still getting out of jams relatively unscathed if he is giving up less than three runs.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this
DOB,
What are the next steps for Mike Gonzalez?
By jason
May 16, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this
IDK, Matthew, but i think Francouer would sneak on there as well.
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this
Shaun:
The protecting the plate conversation was over the TV show Pros vs. Joes, if I am not mistaken. Nothing to do with real baseball games.
By Tony
May 16, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
I’ve always said that Andruw and Marcus Giles were the two dumbest hitters in all of baseball. Giles overswinging was so tiresome and now Dummy Druw…I like that. Why not look at professional hitter like Edgar and take notes, or hell even Chipper. It’s sad to see McCann struggle…if a certain dumbazz manager would not have him bunting, who knows what kind of year this guy would be having. I like Thor at first, he’s intense. If Harris can play 3rd, why not play him at 3rd and Diaz in left while Chipper is out. Woodward is no threat at all.
By Tony
May 16, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
I’ve always said that Andruw and Marcus Giles were the two dumbest hitters in all of baseball. Giles overswinging was so tiresome and now Dummy Druw…I like that. Why not look at professional hitter like Edgar and take notes, or hell even Chipper. It’s sad to see McCann struggle…if a certain dumbazz manager would not have him bunting, who knows what kind of year this guy would be having. I like Thor at first, he’s intense. If Harris can play 3rd, why not play him at 3rd and Diaz in left while Chipper is out. Woodward is no threat at all.
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
My 9:52 should read, “All-Star Game,” not all-start. Coffee hasn’t kicked in yet, so I’m chasing it with a Coke Zero.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this
Lee,
espn.com sorts pitchers by ERA leaders and to qualify you have to pitch a certain number of innings, so most of the ERA leaders are starters.
I don’t know if a low batting average would hurt Andruw’s value all that much. He’s never really been a high-average hitter. As long as he gets on base at a decent rate, hits for good power and plays good defense, he’ll get paid. Also, most teams know the difference between OBP and AVG and most teams realize which is more indicative of helping the team score runs.
By May Day
May 16, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this
I don’t know. I think Andruw’s walks would be more appreciated because the next hitter(s) in one of those lineups would just pick up the RBI. And Andruw may not be hitting cleanup so he wouldn’t be getting criticized for not doing what he’s supposed to be doing—getting hits with runners on instead of walking.
Shaun, you have clearly never lived in NYC or Boston. If he goes to either place, the fan base and the media are going to eat him up. Until this year, Andruw has been coddled down here. I actually think that most people in NYC and Boston have more unrealistic expectations of Andruw Jones than Braves fans do. Braves fans see him everyday. NYCers really only remember the diving catches and the two homers at age 19 in the World Series against the Yankees.
And Shaun no fan says wow I am certainly glad he got that walk in a big spot. NYCers expected Tim Raines, Chuck Knoblauch, Derek Jeter to get the critical walks and get on base in big spots. BUT when Bernie Williams, Paul Oneill, Tino Martinez, Cecil Fielder, et al. came to the plate they were not looking for walks but big hits. NYCers don’t remember the critical walks in a big spot of Derek Jeter, Bernie Williams, Paul Oneill, Tino Martinez - only the big game winning hits. Wade Boggs won that World Series game pinch hitting against Steve Avery and drawing a walk but virtually no NYCer talks about that moment much at all. SO, NYCers are not going to be patting Andruw on his back when he fails to come through in big late innings spot. NYCers talk about the Jeff Maier homer, the game 4 and 5 homers in 2001, the leyritz homer in 1995 against the mariners, the leyritz homer in 1996 against the braves (not the 10th inning walk by boggs that actually won the game), the alomar homer off mariano in 1997, the david justice homers in 2000, the countless derek jeter homers and hits, the countless bernie williams homers and hits, the chad curtis homers against the braves, blah, blah, blah, you get the point.
People in NYC are not walking around celebrating Great Walks in Yankee History.
They are also not celebrating Great Out Avoidance Moments in Yankee History.
On this day in 1928, Babe Ruth displayed great skill and mastery in the much overlooked art of out avoidery. Come on, get real already.
By May Day
May 16, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this
Nothing to do with real baseball games.
MDTW, since when has Shaun actually concerned himself with real baseball games - he only worries about stats sheets.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this
Matthew, Dad to Walter.
Jake Peavy will win the Cy Young award this year. He is dealing……
By jason
May 16, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this
Andruw still gets big hits when it counts. All his numbers are up with the exception of homers and avg. he should be dropped to 6th behind Francouer and McCann until he heats up a bit.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this
Matthew,
I think most statheads agree Quality Starts is a pretty good, basic stat to judge starting pitchers. Most of the time a quality start is going to give a team a chance to win.
By jason
May 16, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this
Andruw will go out west somewhere. Likley, LAA, LAD, SD, or even TEX as a likley suitor. Texas will trade Texeira so will be in persuit of a big bat if free agency. LAA had coveted a big bat the entire year and their stupid GM is to dumb to trade for one. So he will go West.
By Carroll Rogers
May 16, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this
Many thanks for comments on interleague play to the best-educated (ahem, for the most part) bloggers around. Thanks good people. CR
By meansonny
May 16, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this
Tony,
I’m intrigued about Willie at 3rd. But I checked. And he’s never played a MLB game at the hot corner.
Most of his games to date are at 2B (over half) and CF (just under a quarter). Not likely.
By Mike in 'Fretta
May 16, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
Maybe Andruw is just setting up teams so he can exploit them later. Last night Joe Simpson said that the Nats defensive alignment for Andruw was about as extreme as it can get, and after Andruw was interviewed where he actually hits a ball to right field in a game he reminded the reporter that he is a pull hitter.
Maybe Andruw has been setting the stage all along and he has teams right where he wants them. Any minute now he could break out and become a monster hitter as he mashes balls to right field on unsuspecting defenses. Kind of like the way Rocky fought as a righty only to finish off Apollo in the later rounds as a lefty.
Yea, that’s what Andruw is doing…
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this
Don’t mean to pile on, Shaun, but gonna have to agree with May Day on this matter: If you really don’t think folks in NY or Boston would be all over Andruw for the season he’s having right now, making $18 mill or more a year (which he will be if he’s playing in one of those cities), then you, my friend, have never set foot in the cauldrons that are Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium. Period.
They don’t cheer in those places for a power hitter batting .223 with six homers, 42 strikeouts and .785 OPS in 139 at-bats and 39 games. Absolutely not, whether batting fourth or sixth.
By Ricardo
May 16, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this
Jason -
No way to do that deal. Not within the division with the Muts. What’s more, Milledge is a talent, but a head case.
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this
By the way, what would you guys have said if someone would have told you in January that on May 16, Kelly Johnson would be hitting 57 points higher than Andruw, have a slugging percentage 44 points higher than Andruw, and have an OBP 52 points higher than Andruw? Seriously.
By Savannah Guy
May 16, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
DOB - Liberty Media Question
Can you link us with any good articles that let us have a peek under the tent of the TW/Liberty trade that discloses anything that Liberty management may have said about how they will support the Braves franchise? If not, do you know of any insightful articles that may have been written on the subject?
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
Efrim:
No argument on Peavy, but I dare say the race will be close if both pitchers hold out. It should be interesting, to say the least.
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this
The season is almost a quarter done, and Francoeur is hitting .296 with a .349 OBP and .829 OPS to Andruw’s .223 average with a .353 OBP and .785 OPS.
And Renteria and Chipper’s numbers absolutely dwarf the cleanup hitters’ stats. Even McCann, having a far less productive start than last season, still is hitting 66 points higher than Andruw, with a higher OBP and a higher slugging percentage.
That’s five of the other seven position players putting up better numbers that the cleanup hitter.
And that doesn’t include LF, where Willie’s stats since he got here are obviously better (albeit in a relatively brief period), or 1B, where rookie platoon player Scott Thorman is hitting .261 with one fewer homer (5) and eight fewer RBIs (20) than Andruw in 47 fewer at-bats and with 26 fewer strikeouts and a higher OBP (.795) than Andruw.
By Greg E
May 16, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
My previous post says it all (in my opinion).. read it if you have a chance
By jason
May 16, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
Indeed Ricardo. I dont think it could ever happen, though it seems to have been tossed around a bit in the media for some reason.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
DOB,
What is your opinion on Mike Gonzalez a.k.a the key to our hopeful postseason success?
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this
May Day and DOB,
You are absolutely right—the fans in NY and Boston would be giving it to AJ but I think the front offices wouldn’t be that worried. My guess is they would look at the positives (AJ’s patience) and assume that his hitting and power would eventually come around as it always has.
Also, yes, no one talks about great walks in baseball history and walks aren’t as good as homers, but walks do contribute to winning. The old adage is true in many situations (not all)—a walk is as good as a hit.
By Lee
May 16, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
Mike in Fretta
That Andruw - he is a genius.
Jason
I would bet A.J. goes to LAA if I had to make one.
By KC
May 16, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
Scott Thorman has 5 homers, 20 RBI, and 6 doubles. That’s good, but not impressive until you consider that he’s only had 92 at-bats. To put his offensive efficiency in perspective… if you were to project his season-to-date numbers over 550 at-bats, you’ll have the following:
30 homers, 120 RBI, 36 doubles.
Also, his strikeout ratio (1 per 5.75 AB’s) is not bad at all for a big thumper like him. Over 550 AB’s, that would be less than 100 K’s. And he’s hitting .286 against lefties.
Sorry Craig Wilson, but it’s time for Big Thor to play everyday.
By JasonInMaine
May 16, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
Let’s hope Liberty wants to impress the fans and raises the payroll by $5 mill or so! An extra $5 mill would come in handy at the trading deadline!
By Mike in 'Fretta
May 16, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this
Andruw is 10/5 player so he has the right to veto any trade, right? If his struggles continue is it possible he would accept a trade? I only say that because he or his agent might start thinking that although he has struggled in Atlanta this season a change of scenery couldn’t hurt and if he can salvage the rest of the season by putting up good numbers for some contending AL team (Angels maybe?) then he could still get a huge contract.
Although nobody but Andruw knows what is motivating him this year…is it all about the money or is he just trying to get everything he can out of the Braves while still taking a home town discount. I have to say Andruw has been keeping a good poker face about this because he has been saying things that lead you to believe both are true.
By N8
May 16, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this
Shaun
If as Andruw states, the Braves “aren’t paying me to hit singles”, surely, they’re NOT paying him to take walks. Wouldn’t you agree?
And if they are, maybe they should move him and his “patience” (your words not mine), into the leadoff roll, since KJ and Renteria are essentially outslugging him, sounds logiical to me.
Hell, if Andruw didn’t wanna “overwork” his lazy a$$, he wouldn’t even have to take a bat up to the plate with him. Don’t need a bat for a walk, right? It’s not like he actually has a use for a bat with that swing he’s got going on right now. I’m sure the Braves clubhouse attendtand (or whoever washes the uniforms), would appreciate him NOT taking a bat up to the plate. It would considerably drop their budget, since they wouldn’t have to buy anymore SHOUT for the stains on his knees after he hacks and misses, thus falling to one knee, like he’s done about 6-7 times in the last week.
Shaun, similar to Robert’s Cox bashing, I don’t always agree with you and your numbers. But I do find you entertaining, and thoroughly enjoy anybody that gets under people’s skins (which you do - not mine, btw), but you sticking up for Andruw the way you have been the last week or so, is ALMOST as redundant as Robert’s donkey talk.
Only difference on my end, is that I’ve actually agreed with Robert a little bit in the last couple weeks. LOL!
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this
Efrim, I don’t really care to speculate on Gonzalez, simply because I can’t recall a case like this of a guy losing so much velocity, especially from one outing to the next, without it being from injury or fatigue, and he’s not been overworked recently. He was in the first week of the season, but that was five weeks ago. He’s gotten plenty of rest lately, and was well-rested entering last night’s game. I sure hope he doesn’t need a one-run or two-run game to get him pumped up. That doesn’t seem to be the case, though.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Again, obviously no one can deny AJ has been struggling. But I would say it’s not too late to say it’s too early.
Andruw still has a better OPS than Gary Sheffield, David Wright, Johnny Damon, Rafael Furcal, Frank Thomas, and even Albert Pujols.
I would venture to say Albert Pujols is not going to finish the season 105th in OPS.
I think Andruw Jones is struggling because his timing is off on off-speed pitches. He has a .307 AVG on fastballs and is under .220 on all other types of pitches.
Is he trying to pull the ball too much? Maybe. But as I pointed out yesterday with some help from JC Bradbury research—in 2005 he pulled the ball more than in his less impressive seasons.
By MBATL
May 16, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
Down from the mountain top.
Regarding the allstar game: Edgar, good as he’s been, is in a real dogfight to make the squad. I’d have to go with Reyes, Hardy, and maybe H Ramirez at SS over Edgar. Rollins is in the mix too, and Furcal is heating up and by July will probably be a candidate. What a great bunch of SS in the NL this year.
By Mike in 'Fretta
May 16, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
I know (as Chipper pointed out) that our Interleague schedule is ballz, but I can’t wait to see this weekend series against the Red Sox. My family is originally from the Boston area and it is always fun to talk sports to my relatives who still live up there. I am really hoping the Braves can take 2 out of 3 this weekend because with the way I have been talking up the Braves this year I will be in for one heck of ribbing Sunday night.
So the schedule isn’t exactly fair, but it sure does make for good baseball and isn’t that what it is all about? If the Braves had to play the Devil Rays who would care? Well, maybe some of the Baldelli nuts on this blog (by the way you think Andruw is struggling, Baldelli is now batting .204 w/ an OBP of .268 - Yikes!). I for one like to see how the Braves stack up against the best teams and I think it makes the team stronger and builds confidence.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this
N8,
I’m certainly not trying to stick up for Andruw. I’m just saying his struggles shouldn’t be as concerning or tick people off as much as they have. And he hasn’t been quite as bad as everyone seems to think.
I do agree McCann should have been the cleanup hitter midway through 2006.
By rammerjammer
May 16, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
Maybe Salty would catch NEXT year, but not this year. Mac has the pitchers’ confidence.
But if Salty’s defensive upside is higher than Mac’s, sure, why wouldn’t the Braves move Mac to 1B in ‘08?
And can anyone remember a Brave falling from grace as rapidly as Andruw? It’s like, “get the H out of here! We’re sick of your smirk, sick of your swing, SICK OF YOU!”
Look soon for another Terrence Moore this-is-all-about-race story.
By Fred from CT
May 16, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
I will have to say stick it out with andruw he will heat up soon and carry the team. He still is the greatest defensive centerfielder around. As for thorman he has no range at first he doesn’t get to enough balls. I am not saying craig wilson is better but think we need a new option maybe salty is the answer I have no clue how that will work out.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
Mike in ‘Fretta,
Problem is the Braves and Mets play tougher schedules than the Phillies. What happens if the Phillies win the division by a game or two or three over the Braves and/or Mets? Does that seem fair to you?
By eric the elder
May 16, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
The good news: Lastings Milledge is an African-American, so Jesse Jackson won’t be paying any visits to the Mets’ management.
The bad news: Al Sharpton will organize a protest demonstration to ban Milledge from baseball. Yeah, sure.
By TennesseePaul
May 16, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
Andruw’s walks would be more appreciated because the next hitter(s) in one of those lineups would just pick up the RBI
Very much like A-Rod has been appreciated in NY for being the best hitter in history. Oh, wait a minute…
DOB: Bowman reports some Braves Brass Debate concerning Salty and Pena and Wilson. It’s actually some of the most exciting potential news I’ve read in a while (other than this blog, of course). Anyways, Bowman says there is a debate concerning cutting Wilson and keeping Salty to platoon at first base. What’s your insite into this? Is it legit or is Bowman’s free wheelin’ dealin’s just a farse? If it is legit, I find it interesting on two levels… Upper management would actually be admitting that Wilson can’t hack it anymore. And Thor has been hitting better lately, maybe because Salty is standing behind him, a looming threat to Thor’s job.
Or it could be Thor recognizes his platoon buddy stinks and this is the prime time to push him aside like LaRoche did with Jordan.
Whatever the case, it’s exciting to hear there could be rumblings at first base.
Keeping Salty up would improve the bench. We removed Langerhans and replaced with Harris for a 400 point turn around (and not a noticable drop off in defense. Willie has been great to date). And Diaz is back in the swing of things, hitting over .300. Now we just need to remove/replace Orr, Wilson and Woodward. If Salty replaces Wilson, that’d leave just 2 guys. Maybe Salty could take some time over at third base. He certainly appears to have the arm for the job.
By count_schemula
May 16, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
Walks are good in the long run.
Chipper takes walks. The results? He hits well above .300 and he gets better pitches to hit for power.
At worst, walks are baserunners, and baserunners score the runs.
Walks are also pitch intensive for the pitcher, and helps get the starting pitcher out of the game faster.
By AZBravoFan
May 16, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, I know you’re not speculating on Gonzalez, so I will. Could it have anything to do with that mound in DC. I remember when they first started playing there some of the players were complaining about the slope of the mound or something like that and blaming that for some unusually bad outings. Then there were one or two pitchers who liked it better for some reason and actually pitched better. Just grasping at straws here. Don’t know if that can account for a 10 mph drop on the heater. That said, I thought he was pretty effective with the 62 mph curve when he threw it for strikes.
By TheSouthernJackAss
May 16, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
Unbelievable!…
By DonCoburleone
May 16, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
Hmmm, I see Salty at first base could become a reality… What do you guys think this means for Scott Thorman? Does he move to left? Is this year simply Scheurholz showcasing him for a trade in the offseason so we can make room for Salty at first? Or maybe (and this is what I think) Salty learns to play 1B but still stays primarily a catcher. Then next year we cut Wilson loose and use Salty as the primary backup for Thorman and McCann. He could even platoon with Thorman at first base and then catch for McCann once a week or something. I think that could easily get him around 300 AB’s next season and since he’s still playing catcher, his trade value doesn’t diminish…
By Coach
May 16, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
Craig Wilson has averaged a strikeout every three at bats during his career. So far this season he is averaging a strikeout every other at bat , which is abysmal to say the least. If Thorman starts today , it will be five games in a row. Gonzo is looking more and more like a candidate for tommy john surgery isn’t he ? With upcoming games against the Bosox , Mets and Phillies the Braves just do not want to put Chipper on the DL if at all possible. The Circus that is Andruw in the batters box , the gold glove in center , got to take the bad with the good. All the crap that has gone wrong already and yet , look at where we are ! It’s just unbelievable !
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this
MBAT, they can take four shortstops, if they really want to. Remember a few years back in the AL, when they took, what, five?
Shaun, agreed on Andruw — hasn’t been terrible. It’s just that so many others around him have performed better, and people aren’t used to seeing Andruw go this long without a single one-week surge mixed in.
Plus, there’s that small matter of it being his contract year, and many people expected the opposite of what’s transpired so far.
I’ve merely stated that I thought it’d be wise to drop him down a spot or two in the order, because he’s leaving so many guys on base. That’s all. You can’t argue with that, can you? Don’t give me walk stats; he’s leaving a ton of guys on base. Draw walks from the sixth spot, and let someone else drive in runs from the fourth spot.
Before last night, Andruw had batted with 72 runners in scoring position. Next-highest on the Braves was Francoeur, with 65. After that, next-highest were Chipper (56) and McCann (53).
Check out RBI totals compared to runners left in scoring position.
And for simply batting with runners on base, not necessarily in scoring position, before last night Andruw had batted with 109 runners on base. Next-highest on the team were Frenchy (100), Chipper (82) and McCann (75).
McCann had batted with 34 fewer runners on base before last night.
Thorman had batted with only 31 runners in scoring position before last night, to Andruw’s 72. Thorman today has 20 RBIs; Andruw has 28.
By Coach
May 16, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this
Tim Hudson has thrown nine straight quality starts dating back to last season , the man is a machine.
By brent a.
May 16, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
I remember when Steve Avery lost his velocity. He commented that he was just throwing “puff balls” and had no idea why.
Strange.
By count_schemula
May 16, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this
The good about this team though:
Solid pitching, starters, and relievers.
Come from behind wins.
At some point everyone contributes offensively.
I like this team as much as any Braves team during the run.
By TennesseePaul
May 16, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
MBATL: Ain’t that the tooth. Edgar is doing a fantastic job, but Atlanta’s “small” market compared to NY and LA will probably not get him the boost he’d need to over come Furcal and Reyes. Reyes and Ramirez are stellar though. Hell, in another years time the NL is going to be loaded with the best SS in the game. Just need Drew and Tulowiski to heat up. Eventually Escobar/Lillibridge/Andrus will be in the mix. These are exciting times.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
Coach,
Look at all the things that have gone better than expected: Kelly Johnson had the month of his life in April, Chipper stayed very healthy up until recently, Francouer has made great strides, Hudson is looking like the Oakland Hudson or better, Renteria has been on fire, the new relievers have been as good or better than expected, Willie Harris is playing like he’s never played before…sure a lot has gone wrong, especially recently, but a lot has gone better than expected, too, which is why the Braves are where they are.
By DonCoburleone
May 16, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Coach I totally agree on Chipper. I think he is going to tough it out so he can play against the Sox and Mets and then we may see him on the DL… Calm down with Gonzo, jeez, don’t say stuff like that. We already are struggling to find a decent lefty other than him, if he goes down whats left? A McBride-Colyer combo? Now thats scary! One thing is for certain though, other than a starter the biggest need on this team (IMO) is a situational lefty…
By Bravos
May 16, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
DOB & Everyone Else
I know you’ve said you don’t want to speculate on what’s wrong with Gonzo. But… What’s wrong with Gonzo? A guy doesn’t go from throwing mid 90s to 82-83 overnight. It just doesn’t happen. And it’s a little disconcerting to continually hear him say “Well, I feel like I’m starting to come around. I’m almost where I want to be…” etc. Isn’t this a way of saying that a quarter of the way into the season, this guy still isn’t right and has never been? It’s excuse after excuse with Gonzalez.
And there’s no way he should be claiming that pitching in the 7th or the 8th inning just doesn’t get him as amped up as closing does. That’s nonsense. In any case, the guy is paid millions of dollars to go out and shut guys down for an inning, more or less, right? How is it any different in the 7th than it is the 9th? The goal is the same.
This guy has nothing but excuses. And it’s too bad because I think we all want to see the Mike Gonzalez that Pittsburgh had last year. We need him to be that guy.
Think that will ever happen?
By eric the elder
May 16, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
The unfairness in the schedule, especially as it relates to interleague play, is largely caused by the lack of balance in the divisions.
My first step would be to move Houston to the AL West. Doing that would have 5 teams in all divisions of both leagues. Perfect balance.
Now each team would play all the other teams in its division 12 times. That’s 48 games.
Play 6 games with each team in the league, 3 home, 3 away. That’s 60 games.
Finally, play 3 games with every team in the other league, with home games alternating year to year. That’s 45 games.
The total is 153 games. Start a week later because it’s too cold in many places to open on April 1. Also, make the wildcard playoffs 7 games, rather than the ridiculous short series.
Now the playing field is leveled, along with other advantages.
By Coach
May 16, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this
Agreed , if Andruw wants to be a dead pull hitter and continue to leave so many runners on , bump him to sixth in the batting order and let him watch his RBI totals go bye bye along with that new multi-year contract.
By DonCoburleone
May 16, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this
DOB, what do you think of my idea for Salty? Would it be plausible to have him be McCann’s primary backup and Thorman’s platoon-mate at the same time? (not saying this year, but next year for sure after he learns to play 1B in the minors)… I’m just trying to think of ways to get him as many AB’s as possible….
By TennesseePaul
May 16, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this
You see, ultimately, my goal isn’t just to tie ‘Gunsmoke’ but for everybody connected with ‘The Simpsons’ to be as rich and bitter as anyone in Hollywood. And, you know, so far, so good.
—Matt Groening
By BravesScout
May 16, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
DOB,
I know you said you weren’t speculating, but McCann came on Atlanta radio this morning and said he believed Gonzales was headed to the DL.
Who would be the logical call up if this is the case? Is Boyer ready yet? Did Colyer clear waivers?
By DonCoburleone
May 16, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this
eric the elder there is one problem with your plan for scheduling: IT MAKES SENSE! Bud Selig won’t have that…
By TennesseePaul
May 16, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this
eric: 15 teams in each league would require interleague play all the time. This would prevent the interleague week that Bud likes and further bastardize the games traditions that were nearly 100 years old when this started. All for the sake of dollars.
Personally, I’d like to see Interleague go away. I know it won’t because of the money issue. But if it went away, the schedules could be made into trimesters with each one culminating in an intra-division show down. But this isn’t going to happen. It’d require further re-alignment in the divisions which would take another 20 years before it happens.
By DonCoburleone
May 16, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
“The spate of injuries has forced Acta to use Speigner (1-0, 3.77 ERA) in the rotation. The rookie right-hander will be on a pitch count for this game according to his manager, but if his wildness carries over from his relief stints to his first major league start, the pitch count may be moot.”
“Speigner has allowed 14 hits and walked 12 in pitching just 14 1-3 innings over 12 relief appearances. Only 54.6 percent of his 249 pitches have gone for strikes.”
Reading that made me feel alot better about tonights games…
By May Day
May 16, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this
The Magic Number is 124!
The second best record in the Major Freaking Leagues!
But yet we all cry and whine and complain incessantly.
Good times indeed!
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this
DOB,
According to espn.com, AJ has 47 AB’s with runners in scoring position (unfortunately they don’t show PA’s).
AJ has 24 RBI (second to Francouer with RISP). He also is tied with Chipper for most HR with RISP with 4. He has the third-highest OPS with RISP and highest among the players that have basically been in the lineup all season.
He does have the most strikeouts but he also has the most BB with RISP. Looks like he’s doing a decent job of driving in RISP and when he’s not striking out, he’s drawing a walk and leaving those runners for Francouer or McCann or whoever is hitting behind him.
Of course these are overall stats, not May stats. And these stats are from espn.com, just to be clear of where this is coming from.
All that said, I do agree with you that McCann should be hitting higher in the order. As I said, he proved last season that he’s the second-best hitter on the team, so he should be hitting higher in the order simply to get to the plate more often.
By Jim
May 16, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
We need Davies to step it up and repeat his last two efforts. We need to win tonight’s game — a game on paper we should expect to win, and after that he opens the series against the Mets and Milwaukee (if the current rotation holds). The fifth starter will be opening the Red Sox series and pitching against the Mets and Brewers. DOB, is there any word on whether Beckett will be making his start against the Braves?
By Fred from CT
May 16, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
eric the elder you can’t do that it would put 15 teams in the AL and 15 in the NL. You would have to give a team the day off everyday or have interleague play everyday. there is a reason there is 16 in the NL and 14 in the al. even numbers. eight games in the nl and 7 in the al
By ncscoots
May 16, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
eric, I wouldn’t count on the owners thinking that losing 4 to 5 home dates is a good idea. Don’t know how much revenue is generated on average at a single game, but I’m guessing, well, a lot. MLB has already shown its lack of spine by delaying the start of the World Series until 10/24 (!) to accommodate Fox, so shortening the season would require a courage that is surely lacking.
BTW, a third of the season in interleague play (45 games)? Yikes!
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
DOB OR ANYONE ELSE
Any idea why we picked up Graham Koonce from KC? Any worries about Thorman/Wilson? What do we know about this kid, and will he figure in teh mix at 1B soon?
Thanks.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this
For those of you who care about such stats, here are the Runs Created for the regulars:
Chipper - 31.3
K Johnson - 28.6
Renteria - 27.5
Francouer - 24.2
Andruw - 22.7
McCann - 18.1
Thorman - 18.1
Willie Harris - 10.9
Diaz - 10.4
By the way, for those of you who may think RC is a bogus stat, the Braves’ total is 194.6 and they’ve scored 190.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this
ncscoots,
I read that they moved the World Series (or may move it, don’t know if it’s official) so that they wouldn’t have any games on Friday when no one watches TV and, yes, to increase revenue to both FOX and MLB.
Don’t think MLB is caving in to FOX out of fear as much as it’s trying to increase its own revenue.
Even if FOX has already paid them, they can go to the networks next time the contract is up and say, we made x amount of dollars by moving the World Series back.
MLB is trying to make as much money as possible for itself which, for better or worse, is capitalism. And isn’t that what we’re all trying to do?
By MBATL
May 16, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this
AJ is actually hitting .277/.463/.574 with RISP this year. 18 walks, 15 strikeouts. That’s in 67 plate appearances, 47 ab’s.
With 2 out and RISP, he’s at .261/.469/.696, in 32 PA, 23 ab’s. 9 walks, 7 strikeouts.
I’m not a huge AJ fan, but really don’t quite see the crisis. I don’t think the Braves should turn the lineup upside down just because he’s in a slump (batting-average-wise). The Braves are scoring runs.
By meansonny
May 16, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
Shaun,
What’s the formula for Runs Created? I’m not sure I’ve heard it termed that way.
I always looked at Runs + RBIs - HRs. But I doubt that would leave a decimal point :-)
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this
Batters who come to the plate most often with RISP have a moral duty and obligation not to leave them where they found them most often.
By journalist jimmy smith
May 16, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this
investigative report from journalist jimmy smith. all bloggers want to know more about liberty media. journalist jimmy smith set out this morning to find out matters of importance such as if liberty media has a slogan and a mascot. here are the results of this investigation: no mascot could be determined. perhaps the company will adopt a mascot now that it owns a baseball team. then, maybe it will be a pudgy ballplayer falling to pudgy knees during an uncontrolled baseball swing. the company emblem appears to be a hub cap. not sure why but probably developed on a low cost budget. the comapny slogan appears to be “liberty media corporation is an equal opportunity employer”. nothing remarkable was found on the company website. more journalism later.
By flbravesgirl
May 16, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this
(Wrote this earlier but I guess the blog ate it)
I can’t believe some of you are actually suggesting trading McCann. WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE? Shaun, I agree with your 9:23. Mac has already shown he’s willing to sign a club-friendly contract & since I doubt Liberty will up the budget much, that will continue to be important.
Jason, we don’t want Milledge. He’s not Braves material. He’s been in trouble since he was a kid, went to 3 or 4 different high schools ‘cause he kept getting in hot water. (And now I see an article about his “music career” backing up what I’m saying) Plus (even though I love Mac best) we don’t want the Mets to get hold of Salty.
By TheSouthernJackAss
May 16, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this
If “Salty” is that damned good—then let him play now!
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this
MBATL,
I am a huge AJ fan … I don’t look at the numbers but I do watch Andruw closely and sincerely believe the team would perform better were he to be positioned in the order so as to have fewer RISP opportunities.
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
Wow, Lastings Milledge seems to be the future of the Met franchise. What a role model. While he is teaching young people how to be responsible citizens, he is having sex with 12 and 13-year old girls allegedly.
The Muts must be thrilled with this kid. All that confuses me is, how is he not a starter already?
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this
meansonny,
There are a few different formulas. Here’s the most basic:
Runs Created = (H+BB)xTB/AB+BB
It usually has a 5 percent margin of error with a team’s actual run total. There are more complex formulas which are usually more accurate.
The problem with just looking runs and RBI is that it doesn’t take into account the possibility of something like a hit or a BB that doesn’t drive in a run or doesn’t end up becoming a run scored prolonging an inning.
Also, RC is meant to be an individual stat. If a player gets a double, he’s doing something to help create a run for his team. It’s not his fault if his team doesn’t scored him.
It’s much like a pitcher who allows one run in 7 innings yet still gets a loss. RA or ERA is a better measure than wins and losses because a pitcher can do something to create a win yet his team may not take advantage and that’s not his fault.
By Eric from MO
May 16, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
Jared Gonzo has one outing where he cant 90 and now there something wrong with his head. What it the h3ll do you mean? He still hasnt given up a run in forever and there is something wrong with his head.
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this
“liberty media corporation is an equal opportunity employer” … they have style, you’ll have to give them that!
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this
Batters who come to the plate most often with RISP have a moral duty and obligation not to leave them where they found them most often.
Funny stuff.
Sure driving in a run would be better than walking, but walking is not really bad in that situation.
It’s not as if you either have to drive in a run or not drive in a run to be successful with RISP. Other things may help the team less that driving in the run, yet still help the team. And I think this has been the case in a lot of AJ’s plate appearances. He’s often not doing what may help the team the most but he’s still doing something to help the team or at the very least something that doesn’t harm the team.
By MGL
May 16, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this
All of you trade crazy folks can cross Milledge off your list, no way this jerk would be in the Braves clubhouse thankfully.
By TheSouthernJackAss
May 16, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this
Unbelievable!…
By ncscoots
May 16, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this
MLB is trying to make as much money as possible for itself which, for better or worse, is capitalism
Shaun, as a business owner myself, I can quote a couple of business maxims to which good companies adhere in that effort to garner the green, to wit:
It’s three times more costly to regain a customer after losing him or her than it is to gain him or her originally.
It’s at least three times more costly to generate a new customer than it is to retain a current customer.
Running the season into November, forcing World Series games to be played mostly at night, scheduling for TV and TV alone, all run the risk of violating both of the above. For a short-sighted, short-term gain, the vendor risks alienating its current customer base and reduces the chances of securing new, life-long customers. This, my friend, is not how you maximize your revenue long-term. This is how you make your spreadsheet look good in the quarter before they close your doors.
Good business is expanding your customer base and expanding the satisfaction within that base. I worry occasionally that MLB forgets that.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this
Here’s the basic problem, the way I see it, with everybody’s unhappiness with AJ. He’s not doing one of the top two or three things that help the team the most with RISP often enough. Here are the things that help the most with RISP in order of how much they help:
HR
3B
2B
Deep, line-drive 1B/some ground balls through the infield
Shallow, line-drive 1B/some ground balls through the infield
Infield single
Walk (Depending on inning, no. of outs and score, a walk may drop to 8th or 9th)
Fly ball out (Could be no. 7 or higher depending on the game situation)
Ground ball out
Strikeout
Andruw is doing a lot of #7 and #10 and even #1, but he’s not doing a lot of the rest, which is why everyone’s on his case.
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this
Would RC include striking out so as to avoid hitting into doubleplays; running real hard, even when you hit it back to the pitcher so that your hustle inspires the team; fouling off multiple pitches before striking out so as to let your mates see what the feller’s got … and to tire him out; pretending you’re sick while in the on deck circle so as to distract the opposing battery; and not attempting to steal because you know you’re just too slow?
Evaluating the elements that go into creating runs is very complex …
I’ll admit that RC must have something going for it … I don’t think anybody drinks them but they’ve been around for years!
Enjoy!
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
So much for Chipper playing 150 games. 130 from him this year. No one should expect any more than that.
By joebrave
May 16, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this
I rather like Matt Kemp instead of that J******* Milledge…Btw Huddy was damn impressive last night…I hope he infects the other pitchers with what’s ailing him!!!
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this
Shaun, color me slow but I don’t really see how a homerun or triple is more important than a double, relative to driving RISP … and not much more than singles.
By joebrave
May 16, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this
Now as far as an outake on Liberty Media,there is the John Malone factor,meaning most Billionaires have an Ego,let’s hope he has one that wants trophies,I can see payroll going up maybe 25% within a year!! He has former ties with the Braves and is still Friends with Ted Turner!! I only hope he has the passion of Turner!!!!
By ncscoots
May 16, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this
That may make a Letterman’s Top Ten, but there are only four outcomes for the situation you describe:
Drive in the run, don’t make an out; Drive in the run, make an out; don’t drive in the run, don’t make an out; don’t drive in the run, make an out.
AJ is producing a great deal of 3 and 4 and very little of 1 and 2. It’s the disparity that has everybody on his case.
But after days and days of this discussion, I can’t see that any poster has moved your position on this an iota, either with passion or logic. You are either solid in your opinion, or prefer the contrarian position simply because it’s there. In both events, I sense the futility in continuing the topic, and now consider it archived.
By TennesseePaul
May 16, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this
Payne: Your numbers don’t add up with your RC formula.
By Fred from CT
May 16, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
looks like the braves will be facing old pal jorge sosa next week against the mets also looks like perez and I assume glavine will pitch. while we should throw davies, james, and smoltz.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this
ncscoots,
I respect your knowledge, but I honestly don’t think MLB is losing many fans, based on overall attendance numbers.
Baseball has done things for TV and other types of media and baseball has only become more popular. True, World Series ratings have been low recently but overall popularity is higher than ever.
Also, its problematic to just look at number of viewers or look at raw ratings data of the World Series and conclude that baseball is losing customers.
World Series ratings are affected by more choices (with the advent of cable and satellite TV ratings for virtually every TV program have gone down), teams that are in it (if a NY or LA team or Boston is in it ratings may be artificially high)…I’m sure there are hundreds of other things that may affect World Series ratings that having nothing to do with customer satisfaction.
I’m sure baseball does a lot of marketing research and, while no one can predict customer behavior perfectly, they have a pretty good idea of what they can get away with without losing customers.
There’s always something that makes people think the end is near for baseball but it’s been (basically) going strong for about 100 years now.
Not saying I agree or disagree that the World Series should be moved or times should be changed but I’m just saying I don’t think baseball is doing much to harm their business.
By May Day
May 16, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
Nuttin’ beats a good cold RC Cola with some moon pie!
By matt
May 16, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this
SHaun- the one thing that hitters are taught to do at an early age is this…With runners in scoring position with less than two outs, put the ball in play, on the ground, preferably to the right side. A sac fly will do the job as well of course. The problem with AJ is that he is all-or-nothing! He either hits the ball out of the park or strikes out, sometimes he walks. The other problem with this is that if it is on the outer half of the plate you can go ahead and chalk up an out! As long as the ball is on the inner half of the plate you at least know you have a chance!
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
Shaun, color me slow but I don’t really see how a homerun or triple is more important than a double, relative to driving RISP … and not much more than singles.
I didn’t say “more important.” I’m just saying a homerun or a triple is a better outcome than a single, for obvious reasons.
TennPaul,
What do you mean by they don’t add up? Here’s my source:
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/Statistics/Team/playerstats?sortField=runsCreated&team=atl&seasonYear=2007&seasonType=2&type=exp&pagetype=batting&stub=/mlb/Statistics/Team/format/playerTable?teamId=15&fields=gamesPlayed,atBats,runsCreated,runsCreatedPer27Outs,walksPerPlateAppearance,walkToStrikeoutRatio,isolatedPower,secondaryAvg,pitchesPerPlateAppearance,extraBaseHits,plateAppearances,atBatsPerHomeRun,avg,onBasePct,slugAvg,OPS&sorts=gamesPlayed,atBats,runsCreated,runsCreatedPer27Outs,walksPerPlateAppearance,walkToStrikeoutRatio,isolatedPower,secondaryAvg,pitchesPerPlateAppearance,extraBaseHits,plateAppearances,atBatsPerHomeRun,avg,onBasePct,slugAvg,OPS&ops=includeTotals,true,seasonType,2,type,batting,checkQualified,true,function,getPlayerSeasonBattingStatsByTeamSeason,splitId,0,teamId,15,teamFunction,getTeamSeasonBattingStatsByTeamSeason,seasonYear,2007,name,Team%20Batting&of=
By joebrave
May 16, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
I can give you the breakdown on Payne’s Rc A.Jones ain’t no damn clutch hitter and his attitude and aptitude at the plate SUCKS,because of it!!!!!!! I for one am tired of that stupid oh well smirk he has everytime he corckscrews himself into the ground!!!
By Marty
May 16, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
You must belong to emusic. A lot of those titles they’ve been really pushing.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
matt,
I think it depends on the situation as to what is adequate for a hitter to do with RISP.
If there’s a runner on third with 1 out in the first inning, a deep fly out gives you one run and two outs. And may decrease your run scoring chances relative to getting a hit or even a walk.
If the game is tied in the ninth, runner on third, one out, a sac fly would be just fine because you only need one run.
It’s like the Earl Weaver quote: “You play for one run, that’s all you get.”
Sometimes one run is fine, sometimes it’s not good enough.
By TennesseePaul
May 16, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
I plugged in the numbers to the formula you posted. They don’t equate. Maybe the source is using a different formula. I don’t know, but what you posted doesn’t match the what your formula returns.
By HP
May 16, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
With Liberty Media possibly taking over Atlanta Braves. Are they going to change the name of braves stadium “Turner Field” to something else? What do you guys think name will be?
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
I still don’t see where this idea that Andruw has been bad with RISP comes from. Can someone clue me in? Maybe recently but his overall stats are just as good or better than anyone’s on the team—highest OPS among regulars, second-most RBI, third-most hits, lowest out rate among regulars.
I guess people look at the way he’s making outs (he has the most strikeouts) and ignore the fact that he’s basically been the Braves most productive hitter with RISP by most measures.
I could understand concern over the strikeouts if he did not have the lowest out rate on the team with RISP or did not have the second most RBI with RISP.
Please, someone clue me in on what’s going on here.
By StingerSplash
May 16, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, too bad you missed Elvis Costello’s live webcast from the Ed Sullivan Theater on Monday night as Bergmann continued to baffle the Braves — if you weren’t surreptiously watching on your laptop in the pressbox. Guess you missed Wilco last night on Dave, too, unless you got done in time at RFK.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
TennPaul,
Yes, I just looked it up. They are using a more accurate formula, actually:
Runs created [(H + BB + HBP - CS - GIDP) times (Total bases + .26[BB - IBB + HBP] + .52[SH + SF + SB])] divided by (AB + BB + HBP + SH+ SF)
By geauxbraves2000
May 16, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this
Great game by Huddy last night. Even “Corkscrew Jones” got a base hit. :) Still, even with his stubborness at the plate, there is none other I’d rather have in CF.
This Braves team is a good team. The SP is suspect after Smotlz and Huddy obviously, but at times they’ve held their own. It appears there is going to be quite a race in the East this year.
Geaux Braves!!
By KC
May 16, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
We all know that Willie Harris isn’t going to be the first guy since Ted Williams to hit .400 over a full season – lol. I never pegged him as anything better than a .265 hitter at best. However, maybe he’s better than that after all. He made some adjustments at the plate back in spring training that TP recommended to him, and ever since, he’s looked like a different hitter. He’s also now playing in the NL for the first time in his career, which seems to suit him far better. And he’s playing at home in Atlanta, where he’s very comfortable and very happy.
Could it be that things have come together for Willie Harris? Again, we all know he’s going to cool off. He has to. But has Harris turned a corner? Could he be a guy that will hit .280-300 with an OBP of .360 or better?
Based on what we’ve seen, I think he very well may be. And personally, if Harris hits around .300 or better over the next 4 weeks… I’d give him the leadoff job. Not that KJ isn’t good there. He’s excellent. Sure, he’s been in a funk over the last couple weeks, but he’ll snap out of it. I’m not at all dissatisfied with Johnson at the leadoff spot, but IF Harris has turned into a .290 hitter… I think he’d be an even better option there because of his speed.
KJ could then hit toward the bottom of the order, or you could hit him 2nd, Renteria 3rd, Chipper 4th, and so on. Again, I’m not saying BC should hand the leadoff job to Harris tomorrow, but if he hits for a high average over the next 4 weeks, we should then give him the job.
Also, it’s time to let Thor play everyday. And if he continues to look great, and Andruw doesn’t start hitting much, much better… I’d be for seeing Thor and AJ swap places in the lineup. Again, I’d look at what happens over the next 4 weeks, and make a decision from there.
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Shaun, you wrote: “I guess people look at the way he’s making outs (he has the most strikeouts) and ignore the fact that he’s basically been the Braves most productive hitter with RISP by most measures.”
Huh? Wow. That’s amazing. You can look at his stats and come up with that. Oh, that’s right. Walks. Out-avoidance. Nevermind.
I just told you Thorman had eight fewer RBI with less than half as many runners in scoring position, and you come up with that.
I write: Before last night, Andruw had batted with 72 runners in scoring position. Next-highest on the Braves was Francoeur, with 65. After that, next-highest were Chipper (56) and McCann (53).
Check out RBI totals compared to runners left in scoring position.
And for simply batting with runners on base, not necessarily in scoring position, before last night Andruw had batted with 109 runners on base. Next-highest on the team were Frenchy (100), Chipper (82) and McCann (75).
McCann had batted with 34 fewer runners on base before last night.
Thorman had batted with only 31 runners in scoring position before last night, to Andruw’s 72. Thorman today has 20 RBIs; Andruw has 28.
AND YOU COME UP WITH, “by most measures.”
I surrender to your ego, Shaun. You have your view, I have mine. Let’s leave it at that. You’re certainly entitled to believe what you want. Peace. But you’re so completely wrong. You ought to watch the games, instead of running them through an out-avoidance computer program.
By meansonny
May 16, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
LOL, Shaun. I’m sure your formula’s fine. I’m not sure where the constants came from (.26 and .52).
I like OPS. A lot of those figures are calculated there. No need for constants. Just stats.
If I were to pick 3 stats for evaluation of an offensive player, it’d be OPS, RBI’s, and strikeouts. Sometimes simpler can be better.
(For the sake of arguement, nothing takes the place of actually watching an Edgar or Chipper in their approach at the plate).
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
RC Cola and Moon Pie … now that’s livin’. Summers at the Moose Lodge pool in Greenville, N.C., eating Moon Pies and four-corner Nabs (the orange crackers).
Hey, I did a thing with Charlie over at the XM studio here in D.C. today. They had Francoeur on earlier, and thought you guys might like to see this quote he gave them on Chipper:
“He makes our lineup unbelievable; when he’s out we score some runs but we struggle; when he’s in the lineup we roll — our record last year and this year show that when’s he’s healthy and playing…he has such an idea of what pitchers want to do it’s incredible…he can sit on the bench and almost call what the pitchers are going to throw…when you have a guy like that, you try and take in as much as you can and learn as much…I’ve learned how to hit and hit consistently from him…
By rammerjammer
May 16, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this
So, I guess Gonzo is ok?
By joebrave
May 16, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this
Out-Avoidance,the onlt out avoidance A.j. knows about is take out!!! As of right now He will break the single season strike out record!! A.J.would’nt fetch a double a player on the trade market right now… I am unsure about Salty at first he may be a stud there,and if so maybe Thor moves back to left!!!Either way we need a consistent lineup!!! Man I get sick of all this platooning!!!
By Coloradobravesfan
May 16, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this
Smell that— it’s fresh air. No METS bloggers today after Braves win with Huddy dominating, and Mets big loss. I love the smell of a METS loss in the morning.
By JasonInMaine
May 16, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this
You mean Frenchy isn’t studying Andruw in order to become a better hitter?
(:
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
Shaun I didn’t say “more important.” I’m just saying a homerun or a triple is a better outcome than a single, for obvious reasons
What you said was *Here are the things that help the most with RISP in order of how much they help … *
You didn’t specify what they help … the player’s image, future contact negotiations, the team?
Shaun, people who base their decisions and actions on best outcomes stand in soup lines. Knowledgable fans expect Andruw and all others to attempt that which has the best expected value relative to contributing to the success of the team.
Andruw’s not doing that … and from that perspective, best isn’t always obvious.
It’s okay to eat from the cake that you’ve half baked, just don’t confuse the ingredients and pretend that it’s white when it’s really coconut.
By Jared
May 16, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
KC, you’ve made some boneheaded suggestions before like when you said the Braves should consider trading Wickman or Soriano for a starting pitcher. If the Braves had done that and Gonzalez does have something wrong (I think he’ll be fine, I really do) then what? Just Wickman? Just Soriano? Good one.
But the making career .230-hitting Willie Harris the leadoff hitter based over such a small sample size of play, even with the four-weeks thing, takes the cake. Kelly Johnson’s OBP, by far the most important stat for a leadoff hitter, over the full season will be much higher than that of what Willie Harris will do.
No offense, but let’s just say I’m glad Schuerholz is GM and not you.
By KC
May 16, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this
I’d like to go on record…
Thorman will put up numbers this year commensurate to what LaRoche gave us last season.
I believe at season’s end, he will have hit at least 25 homers and 85 RBI, with an average between .265-285.
By MD Braves Fan
May 16, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this
Andruw will have a couple of hot streaks this year, but I believe we will be lucky for him hitting .250, 30 hrs and 95 RBIs by the end of the year. With his glove, we need him in the line up every day, albeit, batting 6th or 7th in the lineup.
For those of you who still think we should try to trade him, stop. Unless we are out of the pennant race by July 31 - he is here for the rest of the season.
What is the value of a two (maybe 3) month rent a player. With his free agancy pending - the same team might be able to get him after the season, without giving up anything. Getting a John Smoltz (AA player at the time) was a once in 50 year occurrance. The best we can hope for is a couple of propects, that maybe one might reach the majors some day - no way we even get a blue chip prospect.
The fact that Andruw has to approve the trade makes the warmer teams, most likely the Angels or Dodgers even in a better position to short change us on talent should a trade go through.
We then need to reevaluate after the season what Andruw is worth to us, and make him an offer. My gut feeling, he is worth $40M over 3 years - but some fool will offer him a lot more. I’ll be sorry to see him leave.
By ncscoots
May 16, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this
Bob, I implore you, as a long and faithful blog buddy, feed no more grist to the mill that is Shaun-on-AJ. It begins to remind me too much of fingernails and chalkboards.
How bout some pie? And, oh, by the way…Suzanne Yoculan.
By rammerjammer
May 16, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
DOB, thanks for the Franco quote. Makes Chipper sound Maddux-like. Very impressive.
Andruw’s probably a better resource on automobiles.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Looking at RBI compared to total runners in scoring position doesn’t take into account teams pitching around Andruw Jones with RISP. I’m sure they pitch around AJ with RISP a lot more than they pitch around Thorman.
A better way to look at this would be to look at RBI compared to RISP LOB or just total number of non-sac outs made with RISP—that way a player that takes a walk or gets pitched around with RISP doesn’t get punished for it (I don’t want players swinging at bad pitches and getting themselves out in any situation).
By Jared
May 16, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
TalkingChop.com:
“After leaving last night’s game with an apparent elbow injury, Mike Gonzalez was placed on the 15-day disabled list today with a left elbow sprain. Mike is the ninth Atlanta Braves player to be placed on the DL this season, and the seventh pitcher. Gonzo still has the longest active streak in the majors with 30 consecutive saves without a blown save, dating back to 8/16/04.
For the Braves triple-A affiliate, McBride was 1-2 with a 3.13 ERA in seven appearances, five as a starter. In 23 innings pitched, he had 24 strikeouts and 7 walks, with three of those walks coming in his first appearance. Perhaps he is finally over his own case of “dead-elbow” that Gonzalez now seems to have.”
By Al B Sure
May 16, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Shaun, you are a idiot
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this
Braves recalled Mcbride…..
Probably because Gonzo is going to need UCL surgery….
JOKING!!!!
GO BRAVES!!!!
By May Day
May 16, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the Mac McBride update, Jared.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
DOB,
While I agree that a hit or a sac fly or even a groundout in certain situations with RISP is preferable to a walk, I don’t think a hitter should be punished for taking a walk with RISP.
That’s what you’re doing if you judge AJ simply by RBI compared to number of RISP when he comes up.
By NCBravesFan
May 16, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
I see that our old friend Jorge Sosa is pitching for the Mets tonight. Guy is 2-0 and has been pitching well.
After his last year here, the law of enigmatic reason would suggest that JS will rip off about 8 wins in a row and be a tour de force for the Mets.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
Yea we probably won’t see Gonzo for months………
HUGE LOSS FOLKS!!!
The guy was dealing. Wickman better be over his back issues. Mcbride is going to have to step up. Bottom line.
By The Grinch
May 16, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
FBG, agreed; Salty going to the Mets would be an unmittigated disaster. SJA, agreed; he should be playing every day right now.
Why are all you people arguing with Shaun? Why? What do you possibly hope to gain? If walks were so incredibly valuable to a cleanup hitter as opposed to hits, pitchers wouldn’t intentionally walk good cleanup hitters to get to the hitter behind them. There are six players in this lineup that any intelligent pitcher would walk to get to OUR cleanup hitter (anyone ever see them walking Andruw to get to Frenchy or McCann?); indicating that he isn’t particularly dangerous anymore in relation to other hitters on the team for whatever reason and continuing to bat him cleanup is asinine until he proves different. This is obvious to anyone paying attention. Why continue to beat your heads against a wall?
By Matthew, Dad to Walter
May 16, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
Gonzo on the Dl with a left elbow strain, Macay McBride recalled. Hope his control issues are resolved.
IMO, Tyler Yates should take the 8th inning role when Soriano is resting. He throws really hard and has had good luck in the clutch as well.
By ernesto
May 16, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
Shaun - when you say team’s pitch around Andruw you mean ofcourse they pitch to the outer third of the plate and then watch him whiff or hit a nubber to second.
Watch the games.
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
By my count, AJ has made 19 contact outs (AB-H=Outs-SO=Contact outs), has 13 hits and 18 walks with RISP. If you add those three numbers, I’d guess no one has a higher total than AJ. Could be wrong, but that’s just my guess. If you want contact or a hit or a walk with RISP, I’m guessing AJ has done the job.
By ncscoots
May 16, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this
Andruw’s probably a better resource on automobiles.
Now, THAT’s funny!
By N8
May 16, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this
DOB
You earlier wrote to Shaun:
“I surrender to your ego, Shaun. You have your view, I have mine. Let’s leave it at that. You’re certainly entitled to believe what you want. Peace. But you’re so completely wrong.”
Just about, huh? LOL! I especialy like the “Let’s leave it at that.” Followed by “But you’re so completely wrong”
LOVE IT.
About 3 years ago two of my bandmates and I were coming home at about 3 A.M. in the midst of a NASTY northern plains blizzard. We got about half way home (total trip about 225 miles) and one of my bandmates says:
“We should really stop in this town, and get a hotel and finish the drive in the morning in the daylight.” To which we responded: “Naw. Let’s just keep going if you don’t mind.”
He then proceeded to say: “Whatever….I don’t care. But if we keep driving in this, that’s just ridiculous!!! (The last line was shouted very angrily).
Of course, I then responded with:
“Well….which is it? You don’t care. Or that’s just ridiculous?”
Anyhow, sorry to bore you all with a seeminling meaningless “story”. It’s just that DOB’s “line” about conceeding that they have different views and he’s OK with that, followed by telling again how WRONG he is/was, reminded me of that moment.
Hard to let go sometimes, isn’t DOB?
Welcome to my world.
By Jared
May 16, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this
“Yea we probably won’t see Gonzo for months”
More like 15 days….
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
ernesto,
No. Teams pitch around Andruw. Look at his BB total with RISP.
Should we criticize AJ if he doesn’t swing a bad pitch (that could turn into a strikeout) in order to pad his RBI total?
This is what I don’t get: You people criticize him for taking walks and striking out, yet if he forced the issue by swinging at pitches out of the zone, his K total would likely go up.
And I’m called an idiot??!!
By Fred from CT
May 16, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
We have rheal cormier who is a vetern who is better then mcbride. I would give him a shot.
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
Shaun, do you remember Bob and Liz Browning?
We feel much the same way … if you go back and read the posts … the meaning rather than the rhetoric (sorta like watching the game instead of reading the stats) … quite a few, if not most of us, are saying the same thing … only differently. You can count the ways!
Some folks say that everyone is entitled to their view … but you know what I think about entitlements.
Different folks interpret numbers differently … Lincoln said “God must have love the poor, he made so many of them!” Barnum said “there’s one born every minute!”
Before long, someone is liable to coin the phrase “there are liars, damned liars, and Shaun!”
We luv ya kid!
By Coach
May 16, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this
The hits just keep on coming and the Braves just keep on trucking.
By Aaron Egnor
May 16, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this
I’m a Thor believer now. I was worried before that he wouldn’t have enough pop to take over 1st but he’s got serious pop.
For the past decade, Andruw has been my favorite player. If I go into a card shop I come out with Andruw stuff, sometimes cleaning the place out. Know what I did yesterday? Bought a bunch of Frenchy cards. Know why? Frenchy has shown he’s not bigger than the team and can go to right or bloop it when a single is needed. Andruw… come on, man. If they paid me one tenth of what you’re making I’d be in TP’s back pocket learning everything I could about making contact. You’re killing me, Druw. Don’t make me put my collection on eBay….
By NCBravesFan
May 16, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this
Jesus Shaun, are you Scott Boras or something? You’d have to be a fool to think that Andruw has been successful in the 4 hole so far this year.
I don’t think AJ himself would say he’s going good at the plate this year so far.
By 22oz
May 16, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Atlantabraves.com just says that the Braves don’t know what it is, they are hoping its just dead arm. Who do we believe?
By ernesto
May 16, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this
Shaun, yes, you are an idiot.
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
I’m guessing AJ has done the job absolutely the best “Shaun” of the year!!
He’s certainly done a job on you!
Time for a hot tub!
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this
Jared,
His name is BJ Ryan…..
He had the same injury. They called it an elbow strain.
JP Riccardi lied about it. Now Ryan is out for 12-18 months.
12-18 MONTHS!!!!!
Meaning he is useless until the 2009 season.
By JasonInMaine
May 16, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this
I have to say that this thing with Gonzo doesn’t surprise me. It’s really too bad, and I hope he is only out for two weeks. But, I am not holding my breath. McBride has never been great at getting out. So, does Yates get the opportunity to be the 7th inning guy with Gonzo out?
By P'Cola Michael
May 16, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this
Why is everyone ready to hang the gold medal and franchise on a guy who has this line score: 4 games 12ab 1r 3h 0do 0tr 0hr 1rbi 3tb 2bb 1k .400obp .250avg??
and we’re ready to just give away a proven gold glove centerfielder that is hitting .17 lower and has 6 bombs.
morons
By rammerjammer
May 16, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this
That is too, too bad for Gonzo…the guy really wants to contribute.
McBride had a 4.61 ERA over his last three appearances (13.6 IP) in Richmond, but he walked only one and K’ed 14.
Here’s a weird stat. Lefthanded batters are hitting just .150 vs. Redman this year.
By Coach
May 16, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Hey Efrim , your talking about our Braves , not the freaking Blue Jays. We have class and dignity when dealing with our players. The front office is run by John Schuerholz , one of best , if not the best GM in the game. If he says Gonzo has a sprained elbow who the F* are to question him ?
By KC
May 16, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this
Jared: I’m glad you’re a fan of my commentary. =) But for the record, I am also glad that JS is GM and not me. Well… I mean, I’m glad for the Braves, but I’d be glad to have his salary.
Anyway Jared, Willie Harris has only had one opportunity in his career so far to play regularly. That year (in 2004 with the White Sox) in 409 at-bats, he hit .262 with a .343 OBP. You want more than that from your leadoff hitter, certainly. But my point is that when given a chance to play everyday, he hit better than he did playing sporadically, as most any play will.
Given that Harris has had a few more years to mature as a hitter, the fact that he’s playing in a much more comfortable situation for him (that sort of thing can make a difference… just ask Edgar Renteria), and that fact that he made some apparently very beneficial adjustments this spring… it’s not a huge leap for me to think that he may have gone from a guy that will hit .262 playing everyday, to a guy that will hit .280-290 or better when playing everyday.
I’m not saying that he’s made that leap. It’s too early to tell. But again, if he hits close to .300 over the next month, that will be a 6 week sample (10 weeks if you include spring training) of the quite possibly new and improved Willie Harris. That would be enough for me to give him a chance at the top of the order where he can wreak havoc with his speed.
A 6 week sample, by the way, is all we’ve got to judge Kelly Johnson on in the leadoff role right now. Again, I’m not getting crazy or carried away here with Harris. I think he hast to prove himself for at least another month. But if he does prove that he’s become more adept at getting on base than he was in the past… I’d love to see his speed at the top of the order – hitting 1st or 2nd. I love KJ. I’ve not lost any faith in him. I’m just saying that IF a month from now it seems apparent that Harris has turned a corner… we should get him in there toward the top of the order where his speed can be of greatest value.
By ncscoots
May 16, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this
Grinch, a new candidate for the Braves/MIB Blog Calendar (Diane Lane and Virginia Madsen, current occupants): Milka Duno. Venezuelan, just turned a lap at Indy at 215+, naval engineer, and loaded UP with major-babe-ity.
She’s no Coach Yoc, but…
By flange1
May 16, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
DOB, can you confirm the Gonzo on the DL and McBride to the team? I see some guys are saying it here but I cannot find any information on it at all.
I think the best way to discuss AJ with Shaun is this, everyone now including Shaun thinks AJ should not be hitting 4th. Forget the walk stuff, the out avoiding stuff, the RISP crap, just move him down in the order while his batting average is in the .230’s or below. When he heats up, or when his batting average approaches his normal average, move him back to 4th.
Shaun, can you argue with that? I think I have used your words in terms that you can’t disagree with… Maybe?
By ernesto
May 16, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this
Where is this Gonzo stuff coming from? Is this real or gossip?
By BamaBrave
May 16, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
DOB, sorry for the late report, but I’m finally able to relay what I saw last night from the M-Braves vs. Barons game. I was most interested in Brandon Jones, but I gotta say Lillibridge and Dan Smith stole the show. Jones looks good in left…never saw his range or arm tested, though. Good presence at the plate, but he went 1 for 5. Just one of those nights.
Years ago, I saw Furcal when he was playing for Rome, and he seemed a man among boys. Lillibridge was almost like that last night. Mentally, he was three steps ahead of the game, and played with confidence and efficiency. Going 3 for 5 (with a triple) didn’t hurt either.
Things are looking pretty sweet on the farm, folks.
By daniel
May 16, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
Never a good time for an injury, but Gonzalez being out right now is terrible timing. We’ve got some big lefty bats coming up against Boston (Ortiz and Drew), the Mets (Delgado and Green), the Phillies (Howard and Utley), and the Brewers (Fielder and Jenkins). Sure would be nice to have Gonzalez to pitch to those guys in late inning jams.
By David in Athens, Al
May 16, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this
DOB,
What is the latest status/update on Aybar? Thanks
By flange1
May 16, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Interesting news: another Mets minor league pitcher has been suspended for 50 games for illegal performance enhancing drugs. That is 2 in the last month…I wonder what they are teaching their kids in the Mets system..
No wonder Mota was so good. Wow maine has been great this year too.. So has Perez.
By KC
May 16, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Jared: And for the record, in regard to my suggestions that we trade Wickman or make Soriano a starter… I need to clarify a couple things that you apparently missed.
My point was simply that we were deep in the bullpen and thin in the rotation. I wanted to Wickman traded ONLY if it were part of a deal that would bring a quality starting pitcher in return. And I wanted to wait several weeks after Wickman’s return to make sure that he and the rest of the bullpen was healthy.
If I were GM, Wickman would not have been traded yet, and obviously would not be traded now with questions surrounding Gonzo.
As for Soriano starting… again, I would have made sure that Wickman and Gonzo were healthy. We had (when everyone was healthy) 3 legit closers, and Tyler Yates who has also looked great. I felt that if we could give up one of those pieces as part of a deal to bring another quality starter here, it would be worth it.
I would not be in favor of any move that would weaken our pitching. I simply wanted to take some of that incredible depth we have (or had before this Gonzalez stuff happened) to strengthen our hand in the rotation.
I hope that clears up my boneheaded suggestions. If not, I’ll try not to lose any sleep over it.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this
Coach,
Not meaning JS would lie F*face. The guy had a problem 8 months ago in Pittsburgh. We examined him in the offseason before the trade went final. He hasn’t been throwing at the same velocity for most of the season. Elbow strain equals dead arm which means that he could have serious damage. I don’t care that he took the MRI a month ago and everything was okay. What happens if after these two weeks, we throw him back on the mound and he ruptures his tendon or ligament and is out for 12-18 months. Stuff happens dude. I can’t hear people on this blog saying he will be back in 15 days. YOU DON’T KNOW THAT!!! and it is probably unlikely.
By meansonny
May 16, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Jared or Gil,
Anyone know the splits on McBride (or have a link where I can grab them) for his minor league work?
I’m interested to see opposing batting averages vs. left and right (in addition to walks and strikeouts vs. each)
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Shaun, And I’m called an idiot??!! … you write some good stuff … not quite as good as the Liberty Media slogan, but you’re young!
Do you know what an idiot is? Consider yourself lucky if you so do … most who are, don’t.
You do seem to have the primary symptom … few are smart enough to realize that they meet the qualifying standard.
By Wayne in Utah
May 16, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
I think we should make a play for Lasting Milledge now. Think the Mets might take Saltalamacchia for him???
Who is counseling these sports players???
By BamaBrave
May 16, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
It’s real…check out the main Braves page. Elbow spasms…serious bummer.
By Fred from CT
May 16, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this
front page of the ajc website has a article confirming gonzalez injury and mcbride up.
By Savannah Guy
May 16, 2007 5:03 PM | Link to this
Shaun…ok fess up. Your last name is Jones, you work for a government agency in the Dept. of Contrived Enthusiasm and Meaningless Statistics (DCEMS) and you hail from Curacao. Right? Go ahead, come clean.
Just looking for some logic and reason here…
By Jared
May 16, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this
“His name is BJ Ryan”
Umm….no. Not even in the same universe.
Gonzalez felt no pain, Ryan did. Ryan had his same velocity, Gonzalez didn’t. Tests showed structual damage in Ryan’s arm, tests showed no hint of damage in Gonzalez’s arm.
Also, most important, Ryan had surgery, Gonzalez most likely will not.
By Coach
May 16, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this
I don’t know what Efrim ? That your an idiot. whatever , your right and the rest of us are wrong. Go buy a lotto ticket and see how your luck holds up.
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this
Gonzalez told us he was pain-free last night, told Bobby same thing, then, according to Bobby, went and was “doing something with his hair” and had spasms in his arm.
Now, I can tell you he had already showered when he talked to us, so unless he went back and did something more to his hair after he spoke with us….
But anyway, Braves decided then and there, Bobby said, to DL him and send him back to Atlanta for MRI. Braves didn’t send out an e-mail anytime this morning or afternoon announcing the move or that Macay was being called up to replace him. It was in the game notes when we got here.
David in Athens, no update on Aybar. Team’s not saying anything, agent’s not saying anything, MLB officials aren’t saying anything, on or off record.
By rammerjammer
May 16, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
Shaun, remember last season how everyone RIGHTLY ripped Francoeur for his first-pitch swings, trying to pull everything, no patience, etc.?
Franco knew he could be better and he’s worked on it and, whoa now, he’s gotten better!
Now contrast that to Andruw. Low batting average, countless missed opportunties, and a muleheaded mindset.
The game-ending whiff at Washington the other night—-taking two straight fastballs and missing a third (“right down the middle,” said the pitcher) and THEN HE SAYS SMOLTZ GOT BEAT!!!
Dude, do you see it? We are over him. He can take his stats, his smirk and his sorry swing somewhere else.
Let me say it another way. He ain’t a Brave anymore.
By flange1
May 16, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah,
Don’t you mean the FALCONS should go for Milledge right now? Combine Michael Vick and Lasting Milledge and you have instant success or maybe a short rap show before the dog fights with everyone smoking dope and having their way with teenage girls??
Or maybe they both should get traded to the Raiders or the Bengals…
By KC
May 16, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this
Efrim, why would McBride setup? Even if Wickman got hurt again, Yates would likely set up for Soriano.
By Wayne in Utah
May 16, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
flange1
My vote is for the Bengals….
By Bob, journalist
May 16, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this
Savannah, Shaun is one of Robert’s alter ids … not to be confused with his identification papers. Of course, he may be illegal and not have papers.
Hot Tub’s ready!
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this
Oh, ALMOST FORGOT: Smoltz is a go for Saturday. He threw a bullpen session today and had no problems with any of his pitches.
AND Chipper’s back in the lineup tonight. Hit some and felt a lot better.
By daniel
May 16, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this
Anyone that says Andruw can go ahead and pack his stuff and leave can make sure they take their lumps when he finally stops pressing and he rounds back into the form he’s shown us for the past 11 years. Like it or not, he’s most likely going to get it sorted out. His average will suffer because he’s carried this slump almost 1/4 of the season, but the rest of his numbers will return toward normalcy by October. He’s driving me absolutely crazy right now, but I won’t forget how he can carry this team when hot.
By ElbravoX
May 16, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Gonzo out until all-star ‘08. I saw Aybar in liquor store yesterday. He looks ready-for some crack!
By Phacochoerus
May 16, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this
Unbelievable!…
By JasonInMaine
May 16, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this
ESPN is reporting that Beckett will not make his start against us on Friday…
By Lew
May 16, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this
Flange-Smoking dope and having your way with teenage girls? Isn’t that the adolescent American Dream? Dude-Just listened to a real good hard rock CD-The new Ian Gillan solo called Gillan’s Inn. The ex (actually and current) Deep Purple vocalist has a bunch of great people playing on this album. Joe Stariani plays some of best guitar in years on 3 or 4 songs and they do a great cover of the DP blues clasic “When A Blind Man Cries” with Jeff Healey on guitar. Check it out.
By BamaBrave
May 16, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this
No doubt Andruw is pressing…but what I really don’t get is the stubborn, almost paranoid, refusal to adjust. Until he loses that attitude, he’s simply not going to improve or come around. He has carried the team before, but I just don’t see it happening this year. Call it the Scott Boras Effect.
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this
KC,
I never said Mcbride was going to set up. He will be our only lefty. So when he faces David Ortiz and Delgado in lefty lefty situations, he better step up. Yates will be our 8th inning man.
By VandyBrave
May 16, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this
Lets keep fingers crossed for a 6 or a 7 before Andruw’s name tonight on that lineup card. Come on Bobby, it’ll be fun, like an experiment.
By berigan
May 16, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this
Andruw during his best year, 2005….
Batting 4th games 111 b.a. .258
Batting 5th games, 29 B.a. .282
Batting 6th games 10, B.a. .250
Batting 7th games 8, B.a.281
So…when he was doing much better, it was ok to move him around in the lineup , but now, when he is struggling, he has to stay batting 4th?????
By Shaun
May 16, 2007 5:52 PM | Link to this
rammerjammer,
Yes, I do remember everybody ripping Francouer. But if you think Francouer should have been ripped for only a high strikeout total, you are mistaken. Francouer deserved to be ripped because of his horrible OBP due to a terrible walk total. Andruw Jones has a good OBP because he draws walks. I know a lot of you are against that, but walks help the Braves.
No one can answer the fact that AJ has the second-most RBI on the team with RISP even though he’s being pitched around more than any other player on the team with RISP.
No, all you people can look at are his strikeouts and how many runners he drives in compared to how many runners are on base for him.
Guess what, folks?! You can’t drive in runs if they don’t pitch to you.
Typical for a lot of Braves fans—you want to criticize Andruw Jones because of his smirk or his strikeout total but completely ignore what he’s done for your team. Wake up and pay attention!!
By Efrim
May 16, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this
Jared,
Very similar to Ryan’s situation. Gonzo is NOW feeling pain. The MRI will tell us what we need to know tomorrow. I really hope there is no structural damage, but lets be honest. I’m sure there will be inflammation and he will be disabled for 4-6 weeks, as Ryan was. Ryan had Tommy John. I’m not saying Mike Gonzalez will, but don’t expect him back in two weeks. And honestly, even though it’s our toughest stretch, I don’ want him back if he is hurt. Let him get 100 percent. We need this guy for the rest of this year as well as the next two seasons.
By Savannah Guy
May 16, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this
Daniel, are you Shaun’s father? Are you also from Curacao?
By JasonInMaine
May 16, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this
Shaun,
I don’t care what your numbers say. Opposing pitchers pitch around Chipper much more so than Andruw. As a matter of fact, Chipper has been walked intentionally a couple of times so teams could pitch to Andruw. There is absolutely NO question who opposing teams would rather face with the game on the line, and the answer is not Andruw, especially this year.
Regards,
Jason
By David O'Brien
May 16, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this
NEW BLOG IS UP
By journalist jimmy smith
May 16, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this
scoots, virginia madsen has been in the ice cream again and may not be a candidate for the 2008 calendar unless virginia madsen can be miss may and june. diane lane, though, remains lovely and calls this journalist almost daily. now, gonzales has elbow spasms. a certain blogger here is known for having spasms and journalist is eager to hear about spasms from this blogger’s perspective. and now the return of a feisty jouranlist bob … jimmysmiththinks bob is a worthy match for bob’s blog nemesis. and is it true that peachtree street is going to be renamed? oh, the humanity! no more peachtree street!
By Savannah Guy
May 16, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this
Now we can all march over to the new blog in an orderly fashion. No pushing. Shaun, bring your stats books.
By parks
May 16, 2007 6:22 PM | Link to this
Shaun, seems to me teams have intent walked Chipper to get to Andruw this year on a number of occasions.
Personally to me his walks are a result of pitchers knowing they can get him out without throwing strikes. Yet sometimes, he proves otherwise. Andruw, as of right now is the last person I want up with RISP.
By glenn
May 16, 2007 11:54 PM | Link to this
I think all you guys, have to get off form andrew bag, just for a while. let AJ play his ball foks. AJ is not the only clean up who’s cold right now. Just take a look to another team. we now AJ every years has his up and downs at plate, so I’ts nothing new four nobody. please guys let AJ play his ball.
By BossLady
May 17, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
Thank goodness that they released C Wilson he actually made me sick when he played. I know it was an out waiting to happen and drain my hope of anything happening at his bat.
By Lou Panelli
May 17, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this
Your stats on Andruw’s half season slump are a real eye opener. Admittedly Andruw has the potential to get hot and begin producing with men on base, but I would think it is apparent by now that keeping him in the cleanup spot awaiting what may not happen for quite some time (especially given his refusal to attempt to do anything other than pull the ball) is hurting the team’s offensive production at a time when they may be beginning to start slipping behind the Mets in the standings. Management woke up to the Langerhans and Wilson situations and did what needed to be done. Why can’t they admit the obvious and bat Andruw 5th behind a cleanup platoon of Francoeur and McCann?