Braves

By Carroll Rogers

June 7, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Talked to Heyward a few minutes ago. Sounds like he’s in great shape to sign folks, and that’s important. Here’s what he had to say:

“I was in awe,” said Heyward, who watched the announcement on ESPN2 from his living room in McDonough, surrounded by his parents, younger brother, grandparents and another dozen family and friends, including teammates from Little League on up to high school.

“Not in shock,” Heyward said. “I was in awe. It was a great feeling to have a dream come true.”

The phone started ringing before Heyward even got a hug in. It was his advisor Victor Minocal, who works for Lonnie Cooper and Atlanta-based Career Sports.

That’s important for the Braves. who would expect to have a great shot at signing Heyward. It’s makes it more likely first off that Heyward is not a Scott Boras client.

Heyward has signed with UCLA but said Thursday that was only a backup plan, and he was “very likely” to sign with the Braves.

“My overall goal for everything is to become a major league baseball player,” Heyward said. “I was given the opportunity to start (working toward that goal) with the Atlanta Braves.”

By bob

June 7, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

you say andrew needs to get more consistent and solid in his approach. I love the Braves, but I’m tired of Andrew. after 10 years why do you think he’ll change - he won’t. He comes up in a pressure spot and i pray he doesn’t get 2 strikes, because he’ll strike out.

i know he’ a defensive wizard and he won’t accept a trade but it’s time to move next year

By NCBravesFan

June 7, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

DOB … go easy on your fellow bloggers - the bandwagon has been a lot roomier the past couple of weeks, what with everyone jumping off lately. :)

You’re spot on here - when Chipper comes back and McCann’s nickle-and-dime stuff straightens out, this team will look a lot different offensively.

I agree a pitching upgrade is needed .. but if the offense gets back to humming along as it is capable, to me they don’t need a lot to stay in it.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 7, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

Good teamwork on the Blog and Draft Coverage, DOB and Carrol. Hmmmm?…teamwork?? There’s an interesting concept.

By Berigan

June 7, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

lew, you said at 11:53 AM…. No one is going to trade us a frontline pitcher-the hottest commodity in MLB, for an unproven catcher with damn little experience, either at the ML level or high minors, just because he has a major upside.

Funny what a difference a few years makes! JS traded a 20 game winner for an unproven catcher. And which unproven catcher would you rather have at the age of 22???(Wasn’t Estrada 26 when we traded for him?)

By MBATL

June 7, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

DOB, the draft is not must-see tv, but it’s sure better (for a baseball fan) than the World’s Strongest Man Competition, a replay of the Spelling Bee, the World Series of Poker, or whatever would normally be on ESPN 2 on a Thursday afternoon. To me, it’s only a little interesting, but surely no harm in showing it if ESPN can pay the tab.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 7, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

That’s Carroll with two l’s. Sorry.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 7, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

CR,

Great job on the draft. (I give you props even though I’m a Tar Heel alum.) The Heyward kid really looks special. I love the fact that he’s drawn a lot of walks, because I would guess a high schooler doesn’t get many intentional passes. Unless he strikes fear into opposing pitchers when he steps on the field, you’d have to think he understands the strike zone. Lord knows we could use a few more young ballplayers with that talent.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Like many of you, I inferred from Schueholz’s statement about Salty being a catcher that he would likely be traded. However, I’ve given it more thought.

It isn’t like JS to tip his hand like that. Is it possible that he was simply trying to take pressure off Thorman and others? Looking at the success in getting Kelly Johnson prepared to play 2nd base, might he be thinking about seeing what Thor does this year and, if he fails, give Salty Hubbard-like instruction over the winter to play 1st or left field next year?

Maybe just wishful thinking, but I’m hoping that JS has no intention of letting this guy go.

By Berigan

June 7, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Still a little peeved at what Starks said about Andruw Jone’s defense(though reading the article, he was dead on about his approch at the plate) but read this, and hope it’s true!!!!

*Clubs that have asked the Braves about Jarrod Saltalamacchia report they’ve been turned down flat. But by July, the Braves expect to have a better read on whether Scott Thorman is the answer at first and/or whether Saltalamacchia can be an alternative first base option. And those answers will determine whether Saltalamacchia becomes their No. 1 trading chip at the deadline — but only for a major player whom they’d control for multiple years. *

By Dr. Franklin Ubuto

June 7, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

I have perfected a salve that will remove a bone bruise in a matter of 2-3 days. This salve is not yet approved by the FDA for humans but it works especdially well on horses. The salve is pungent and powerful. I think this salve may be the answer to getting your Chipper Jones back in the lineup. Now, I don’t wish to appear greedy, but there are some costs incurred in the development of miracle cures and there will be some cost to you for this salve. I can leave a small jar of salve at the base of the hank aaron statue tonight if you bloggers can leave some cash (say, $50,000) in an envelope along with two dugout level tickets. soon, your boy will be back on the field with good thumbs - but the same toes. I don’t work with toes but will ask my brother-in-law, Dr. Jerome Bakuta, noted toe-man, if there is anything he can do for Chipper’s toes. With healthy thumbs and toes this team can contend for the division. I know there is a doc here who is a blog regular and I hope this post does not step on his toes.

By flange1

June 7, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for the new blog! It is early we still have 102 games left.

The Heyward kid looks great! MLB.com suggested he probably would end up in LF or 1B. Good swing, another nice choice for the Bravos!

DOB, what is the attitude in the clubhouse now? Are the guys down or are they not worried about this mini-slump?

Thanks

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Well said, well put DOB. Sooner or later I’d like the brutal truth of your review of Aqueduct… Or Give Me Death.

This Heywood kid sounds good. I hope he turns out alright. It’s hard to get too excited in a baseball draft since the players are almost always several years away from the bigs. But he sounds good. I look forward to following him through the system.

By 22oz

June 7, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

Well the 5 o’clock whistle blows! Maybe there will be something positive to talk about tomorow! Goodnight everybody, and go braves!

By Chop Chop

June 7, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

What we are learning this year is that the MLB “draft gurus” (specifically Jim Callis and Keith Law) are geeks of the first order. Baseball needs a Kiper, dammit. Then again, maybe MLB can go the NBA route and get Hubie Brown to do next year’s draft. He can tell us all about some high school lefty from Montana with “tremendous upside potential.” Oh, even better, let’s get Jay Bilas to describe the “incredible length” of a first baseman from Kentucky. Perhaps Jay could also drool over one’s wingspan?

Bottom line: There’s a reason why Keith Law and that Jim Callis dude are on the Internet the other 364 days a year.

By Ron Roberts

June 7, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

The draft is boring. It’s like MLB tried to replicate the NFL draft TV coverage (probably more ESPN’s doing than theirs…) but ya have to wonder, did somebody forget to invite the fans to show up? It’s like a funeral wake in there!!!

By Ron

June 7, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

Shaun, this is what you said in the other blog: The Braves have traded their #1 prospect several times: Bruce Chen, Wilson Betemit, and Andy Marte over the past decade. Yes they have, but this is where you did not read my post carefully I said when is the last time JS traded the #1 Prospect for another Prospect. Read it more carefully in the future Shaun!!! And when we traded Betemit he was on our major league team, and he was not considered to be a prospect anymore!!! And Marte we traded him for Renteria, and Chen, dont remember who we got for him, maybe Ashby, but not sure!!! Shaun name me the last time JS traded the #1 Prospect for another prospect? That has never happened!!!

By Fred from CT

June 7, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

curt schilling no hitter thru seven

By Novice Ned

June 7, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

“… as long as the have Chipper Jones…” Well, we don’t have Chipper Jones. And Yunel just looks like a ball player. Like one of those 40 doubles and 20 homers can of players. Like a “where he he come from” kind of player. Why should buy or sell decisions be made based on our part-time superstar?

By Ron Roberts

June 7, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

Weighing in on the do we or don’t we discussion when it comes to keeping Saltalamacchia or trading him… I just have to ask this…

…how does anybody know he’s projecting to be a better anything compared to Brian McCann?

It just never ceases to amaze me how fast “fans” turn on players wearing the beloved Tomahawk. McCann struggled through an injury-riddled month and still hit .257. And so far this month, he’s hitting .333. Chill on the talk about who the better catcher projects to be. Right now Brian McCann’s proven far more at the position.

Put Saltalamacchia at 1B if you want or dish him to somebody else; but McCann’s the better catcher now.

By Ron

June 7, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

DOB, or Anybody, Does anybody know anything about Cody Johnson, the guy the Braves drafted in the first round last year? Heard one at bat he looks like a young Frank Thomas and then in another at bat he looks like a no talent nobody. Heard he has alot of holes in his swing. He is still young, but wondering if he has a future in Atlanta!!!

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Elder Cato, I agree with much that you say, as you are a cauldron of wisdom, no black pot, kettle connection intended … but, I humbly suggest that the Blog has a bit more impact than the “absolutely nothing” asserted in your recent post … that we sometimes arrive at solutions faster than they can be effected is something with which I concur and share your hope that certain of our prophecies are not self-fulfilling.

If others can, I can too … Jersey Gil’s 4:03 … how insightful … or should it be inciteful? Regardless, methinks it’s nonsensical.

However, there is no requirement that our posts make sense … thank goodness … for, were that to be the case, I’d have to seek other environs.

By RC

June 7, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Where is the draft blog? I can’t seem to find it on the main site. Speaking of Heyward though, he looks like a poor man’s version of Ryan Howard to me….BIG boy with a sweet left-handed swing, although slightly more athletic than Howard.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I doubt there are many here who would argue that we should replace BMac with Salty. In any event, it isn’t going to happen.

I don’t think most of us factor BMac into the question of keeping or trading Salty. The only issue is whether there is a place to play Salty, other than catcher.

By Efrim

June 7, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts

Then I better see more home runs from McCann this month. A lot more.

By bruce

June 7, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

Eric: I like your thinking in your 4:45… it is positive, makes sense and gives hope. That is what we need right now. Thanks! Bruce

By N8

June 7, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Eric, I was thinking the same exact thing that you said in your 4:45 post.

Nicely done.

Here’s the thing. For whatever reason, I trust JS to do the “right” thing. If he does trade Salty, I’m sure it will be for a very good player that will help us for a long time.

I think he learned his lesson with the JD Drew fiasco. If you can call it that. JD was VERY important to us winning that year. And Wainwright has looked like the young pitcher he is, this year. But DAMN did he look good in the post-season last year. IMO he has WAY more upside than a guy like Davies, so I wish he was still here.

I hear what DOB is saying about the Braves not ever giving up. I appreciate that to an extent. I still would’ve traded Andruw last year for good young pitching, but that’s just me. But I sure hope he doesn’t mortgage the future by trading Salty for a guy that might only be here a couple of years. That would be silly. EVEN IF, it helped us make a run this year.

By Ron Roberts

June 7, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

I hear ya Eric the Elder… but on the previous blog there was such discussion. It’s been discussed for weeks, actually.

I’ll be happy when something’s worked out with the guy, one way or the other. I’ll be happy if….

1. We trade him for a young stud starter just as worthy of future acclaim as he is….

or

1. We send him to the minors to re-tool for another position and is brought back up for that position

Anything done w/Saltalamacchia other’n that is foolish. That includes putting him in an Atlanta lineup to play any position other than catching relief for Brian McCann. I’ll stand by it, as I’ve said all along, Saltamaniacs, the guy’s not going to start a game at 1B in an Atlanta uniform until he’s done time in the minors at the position; he’ll get a sniff of the position in blowouts only I believe.

By teoa

June 7, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Maybe Schuerholz should take a look at the Twins example before he rushes into trading Salty…

The Twins have a great young catcher in Joe Mauer, who is every bit as good as Brian McCann, probably better. The Twins also have a power hitting first baseman, Justin Morneau, who happens to be the reigning Most Valuable Player of the American League. Now I’m no rocket scientist, but it seems to me you can’t be more valuable than most valuable. Fortunately for the Twins fans, their GM didn’t say “Too bad Morneau can’t catch. He’s not as valuable as he could be, so we might as well get rid of him.”

I just don’t understand this myth that Salty can’t be extremely valuable to the Braves playing a position other than catcher. If management believes he has the athletic ability to learn first base, then that’s absolutely what he should be doing. It’s ridiculous to think a potentially great hitter should be traded because there’s not room for him to play a particular defensive position. I understand it’s more unusual to have a switch-hitting power hitter at catcher than it is to see that at first base, but personally I’m more into winning than novelty acts.

As long as the object of the game is to score more runs than the other team, hitting will always be plenty valuable in itself. Hopefully the Braves will wake up and stop penalizing themselves in the name of making one of their better hitters more valuable to other teams. Last time I checked, the Braves could use some help themselves.

By Draftnut

June 7, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave The Braves BARELY missed out on a GA boy named Joshua Smoker (I like that name for a pitcher). Since we all know the Braves love the GA pitchers, do u know if the Braves were interested in him?
I can definitely see the Nationals going WWBD? haha (what would Braves do) Please give us some scouting on Heyward and Gilmore on the meantime! Thanks

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Payne: The Braves have traded their #1 prospect several times: Bruce Chen, Wilson Betemit, and Andy Marte over the past decade

Let’s take a look at these:

By Dr Dick Weed

June 7, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Ubuto Dr my a$$, and I’m Daisy Duke.What you are sir is a thief and a hack.We both know you stole my formula while a stable boy on my miniature mule farm at Blewett Falls lake NC.I must warn Chipper and all other unsuspecting potential customers of this snake oil salesman (38% snake oil by volume),that indeed a study on humans was made using white collar inmates at the greenwich Conn work farm and polo grounds.While there were no fatalities several participants did develop a stubborn streak,a reflexive kick as well as a superfluous third nipple.Buyer beware!

By Rosalynn

June 7, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Jimma had to go next doah and have a wohd with ouah new neighbahs - some nice nfl boahs. Theah dogs are barkin and cryin and wailin all night long. It somtimes sounds like theah is a dog fight goin on ovah theah but theah sah theah ah just raisin puppas. Theah ah some holes in this lineup for suah and we need Chippa Jones back. Jimma says a choppa to Yunel doesn’t sound as excitin as a choppa to Chippa. oh, well, Chippa Jones has been on the disabled list longah than Pahis Hilton was in jail. It does not look good foah this season. The bloggah was right that decisions made around Chippa seem to be ill-considahed decisions. It would be a mistake to trade awah a potential thuhd baseman with Chippa having such tendah toes and thumbs.

By bruce

June 7, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Dave: Bowman speculated yesterday that a pitcher might get sent down after Cormier pitches on Friday and a position player might be called up… do you think this will happen and will it be based more on Smoltz’s shoulder sore shoulder progress and whether Smoltz can go on Sunday or how well Lance pitches? Doesn’t seem like we have excess pitchers at the moment… Thanks, Bruce

By Ron Roberts

June 7, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

Efrim, baseball forecasters are projecting Saltalamacchia to be a 15-20 HR a year guy. McCann hit 24 last year.

Besides, nobody expected that out of him, and the Braves would be happy with a guy in the 6-7 spot of the batting order who hits for a high average. I’ll take high average singles-and-doubles hitting over moderate average with power. We already get power and high average from Chipper (when healthy); we already get moderate average and power from Francoeur and we get power and pitiful-to-moderate average from Andruw Jones.

Also throw into the equation that McCann’s been playing hurt last month and, frankly, toughed his way through it in fairly decent fashion. Not spectacular but decent. I’ll put a healthy Brian McCann against a healthy Jarrod Saltalamacchia and still tell you McCann’s the better battery mate.

So will John Smoltz, who I think knows a little something about quality catchers.

You’re declaring Saltalamacchia is a better full-time catching option, Efrim, after he’s started, what, eleven games as a catcher?

By mesmo

June 7, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

I remember several years back when the Braves had a tall, young, power hitting catcher who was a rookie. In the off-season they trained him to be a center fielder. His first year in that position he won the first of several gold gloves on his way to becoming a legend. Name? Dale Murphy. Train Salty. So long, Andruw, it was nice (sometimes).

By Ron

June 7, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

Draftnut, who cares about Smoker, we have enough soft tossers on the major leagues and the minors!!! Gilmore can hit, but heard his defense is not too good, but we will see, may be a bargain in the second round!!!

By Marc

June 7, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Jesus Christ people, the sky isn’t falling here, we don’t need to trade any prospects that we might need in the next couple of years.

If we just wait a couple weeks for early July we’ll be able to get a sold #3 guy for cheap.

With Smoltz, Hudson, and James in the front, all we really need in the back is two guys who can break even, give us innings, and keep their ERA at or below 5. Between the four prospects fighting for the last two spots now, one of them can accomplish that feat. That means all we have to do is a get a Noah Lowry or even a Steve Tachsel - and we should be able to get one of them for two mid-rate prospects that are blocked on the Braves anyway.

People keep acting like we need a Ben Sheets to make it to the playoffs (and win). We don’t.

By bruce

June 7, 2007 6:14 PM | Link to this

oops, wrong link to Bowman’s article in my 6:02 question to Dave. Sorry, Bruce

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Bruce, Bowman wasn’t speculation; Bobby has said that’s the case, that a pitcher will be sent down and a position player called put. And I said here yesterday that Brayan Pena makes a lot of sense, because it would give them a third catcher and allow Bobby to play Salty more at 1B. Thorman can’t hit lefties, or hasn’t in his chances yet….

TennPaul, I gave a little review of that CD a while back, guess you missed it. I liked it. It’s a lot better than the cover art, that’s for sure. They sound like a few other bands, a little of this, a little of that. Good band that I’ve never heard of before you told me about ‘em. Are they an L.A. band? I hear some Killers in there (that’s not a bad thing, don’t worry).

You said you like Silversun Pickups, right? That’s a great record.

I really like that Golden Smog “Blood on the Slacks” EP that someone hear recommended last week. Got a great cover of Bowie’s “Starman” on it and a couple of Dinosaur Jr. covers. Good stuff.

By Ron

June 7, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, good 5:51 post thats exactly what I said to the Idiot earlier, except I did not go into such great detail!!! Shaun looks stupider every time he types something!!! Glad we dont have people like that running the Braves!!!

By akirell

June 7, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

DOB, There’s this Jayson Stark article on ESPN.com that says that the Reds may look to move Griffey this summer or offseason, and that outside the Braves, there aren’t many places he’d approve a trade to. After reading this, I’ve spoken to several Braves fans who are already chatting up the idea of having Jr. on the Braves next season, despite how absurd the possibility may be.

What are your thoughts on this and how would you explain to people, aside from budget constraints, that there is almost no chance Junior will come to Atlanta?

In case you’re curious: here’s a link

By Ron Roberts

June 7, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Folks might chuckle, but I thikn if the Braves are gonna go acquire another starter, the obvious guy out there not many are mentioning is Odalis Perez. Not the big name splash many would like, but the guy’s not been all that bad this year. He’s only pitched one game where he’s given up more than 4 ER. He’s in Kansas City, too, where an old Brave hand (Dayton Moore) might play ball with us on even terms. I just wonder what it’d take to get Odalis from him at this rate?

I’m sure Dayton would shoot high (Yunel, Saltalamaccia) then settle for something more rational and reasonable, wouldn’tyathink?

By Fred from CT

June 7, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

schilling loses no hitter with two outs in the ninth

By JCB

June 7, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave Any word on how far along Tanyon Sturtz is coming? How close is he to being ready? We need some experience in the pen I think.

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

My Lady, I mean Miss Rosalynn … a choppa to Yunel isn’t as excitin as a choppa to Chippa … cause with Chippa, one nevah knows.

Speakin of Miss Pahis, what was the undisclosed medical condition that took her off of the DL? Maybe her Daddy should Resacca an send her back … too late for that I suppose … France, maybe?

By Jeff R

June 7, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

I agree with the gist of DOB’s remarks concerning the Braves’ status. I’m not thrilled with the way the team has limped along lately, but there’s a lot of baseball left. And if the Braves are still close to the Mets at the All Star break, then it’s all about the second half of the season. But…they have to find a cure for the 4-5 spots in the rotation (I still think James will figure it out), and hitting has to pick up, which it probably will in JUne ad July.

By Ron Roberts

June 7, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

Matt Diaz can also play some 1B and hits lefties quite fine, with a .315 career batting average, and .338 this season, if they call up Brayan Pena as a 3rd catcher.

By rotgut

June 7, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

hell yeah on drafting Josh Fields. Im in Athens and Ive seen a lot of him. Fastball can look impossible to hit. This season wasnt on par with what he can do when hes feeling comfortable. Having him and Startup is going to help the bullpen for years to come. Id really love (and imagine)we will see Startup before the season ends. i dunno how good hes looking now in AAA but we need a decent lefty in the pen asap.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 7, 2007 6:41 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, Rosalynn, and send my best to Jimma.

By Lew

June 7, 2007 6:50 PM | Link to this

Berigan-I see what you’re saying, but A.Kevin Millwood never won 20 games B. He won 18 twice with the Braves-never more than 16 since, 14 another and three losing seasons of less than 10 wins. Estrada, however, was an all star, a silver slugger winner and extremely good catcher for us. Be that as it may-The trade was more a salary dump than a bona fide trade in the off season. Besides that was then and this is now. We’re not going to get a top line pitcher at this of year for Salty. That was my point all along.

By A-ville Ranger

June 7, 2007 6:52 PM | Link to this

DOB I posted on the old blog asking why we’d have three starting pitchers at Richmond with very low era’s,all fairly old for prospects and not look for help from them now ? I know Carlyle was brought up for a start then returned.Along with Carlyle,Acosta and Hernandez are all pitching great.If they’re not going to be given a chance now when the need is obvious,why keep them in the system at all ?

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I’ll take high average singles-and-doubles hitting over moderate average with power

You can obviously add me to that list … but, if John Smoltz is offering up comparisons of which catcher is best, I suggest he see the shrink or hypnotist. I would agree that he knows a little something about quality catchers … but I also suspect he knows better than engage in such discussions.

I don’t have any idea as to who’s the better full-time catching option, but Brian is certainly flawed and the Braves have him under favorable contract conditions … and I trust that management has given more than a little attention to their options … indeed, chemical rather than physical considerations may prove to be of the greater import.

By DIRECT

June 7, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

tomo ohka was designated for assignment by toronto- any1 thinks hes worth a spot in the braves rotation?

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

DOB: I guess I did miss it. They are actually a Seattle band. When I was in Atlanta in March I caught their act. I had seen them in Silver Lake a month prior and was interested. I bought the CD and by the Atlanta show was hooked. David Terry is the most laid back easy going guy I’ve met in the music scene for quite some time. He was really cool. He gave me a shout out at the Atlanta show, recalling me from the Silver Lake show. Good times. They have a bit of everything in their songs. Every now and then a new hook pops up in my listening that I recongnize from legends past. And he has a good sense of humour with his lyrics to go along with that Cover Art. That art cracks me up it’s why I opted to send the whole case over just a copy. It makes me laugh every time I see it.
I enjoyed the Silversun Pickups (Silver Pickers =). I picked them up after you mentioned them. Pretty good band. Hints of the Pumpkins in there. Got them in rotation on my system with Neon Bible and Or Give Me Death.

By BossLady

June 7, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

A poor man’s version of Ryan Howard? What you thought Howard was born into money? He was just as poor as most of the players when he started.

By ncscoots

June 7, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Startup has an ERA under 3, and 24 K in 24IP, but I haven’t seen him play this year. Maybe Gil has, and can give us an idea. I’d agree a second lefty in the pen would be a good idea.

By A-ville Ranger

June 7, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this

I said before the season that Hudson was the biggest key to being competitive this season.I think that’s even more the case now.As thin as the team is at starter it’s true as DOB says we need somebody past the three spot to step-up.If Hudson pitches as poorly as he has three of his last four starts however it won’t matter what we get at four and five (unless we luck into an ace).

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger, regarding the pitching dilemma … hopefully, the Braves’ are trying to kill the snake rather than scotch it.

By N8

June 7, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts

Regarding Odalis Perez, you said:

*”He’s only pitched one game where he’s given up more than 4 ER.”

When I read that, I was thinking, hmmm… Not a bad thought. I hadn’t heard much about Odalis this year, so I checked his numbers out.

He’s 3-5, in 12 starts, with an ERA of 5.74, in 64.1 IP. (5.1 IP per start).

While your statement above is correct (in that ONE start he allowed 6 ER), you fail to state the other side of it. He has allowed LESS than 4 ER in his starts only 5 of the 12 starts.

He’s essentially a lefthanded version of Kyle Davies.

Yeah, THAT’S what we need.

Man ALIVE! Having Redman on this team for a month and a half, has sure lowered our standards of what would be considered an improvement to our rotation.

YIKES.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

Akirell, one question: Where do you propose that Griffey Jr. play on this current Braves team? Center field? Left? Right?

On the list of priorities and moves that make sense, he’s not on the first three or four pages with me. And that’s if there’s about 100 potential moves on each page.

By Berigan

June 7, 2007 7:11 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul, excellent post at 5:51 PM. And I mentioned earlier that we traded a 20 game winner for Estrada who had a .222 average after 315 ML A.B’s!!! (could you imagine how much venom there would be on this blog if we did something like this today????)

So, we make be able to trade for a ML player right now for Salty, though I’d rather we didn’t.

I grew up watching switch hitting Ted Simmons(A catcher that everyone from Peter Gammons , to Keith Obermann thinks should be in the hall of fame) 7 seasons hitting over .300, 8 seasons of 90 or more RBI’s. 7 straight years he played in 150 or more games, and he was a catcher!!!!(Somehow he played 161 games in 1973) Ted was my favorite Cardinal player. In fact, after Whitey Herzog traded Simmons(and soon after Keith Hernandez) I stopped being a fan of the Cards. I was that mad.(didn’t know Keith Hernandez was snortin’ at the time)

That being said, I swear to you, if Salty stays healthy, he will have a better career than Simmons did, whether behind home plate, or elsewhere.

By Draftnut

June 7, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

Ron Thanks for the info on Gilmore. But to me Smoker could be a Chuck James which sounds pretty good to me. I’m worried that the Braves only drafted one pitcher so far (the UGA closer). We can always use great pitchers in our minor league system.

I also just saw Heyward talking w/ Bobby on TV. Whew that’s a big kid. and he did not look out of place when he was shaking hands w/ Mccann or Francoeur. I hope he’ll advance quickly.

By CJ

June 7, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

Hey BOB-

Noticed you said that you like the Miranda Lambert CD. Have you heard of Eric Church? Probably the best “new” country singer/songwriter there is right now.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 7:18 PM | Link to this

I have to hand it to Andruw, he always makes himself available for interviews. Trouble is that he talks at length about “We aren’t doing this,” and “We need to improve at that.”

I wonder whether we will ever hear him say, “I’m having a horrid year, and I’m killing rallies, and my batting average is the same as Kyle Davies.” Nah.

By N8

June 7, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger

HOW DARE YOU!

You actually think Hudson hasn’t pitched like an Ace 3 of the last 4 times out.

You need a seeing eye dog pal, Hudson’s just fine according to all the homers. I’m not sure what YOU are looking at.

You mean to tell me that you’re not happy with a 6.65 ERA in his last 4 outings? I think he fits right in.

:-)

By joebrave

June 7, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

i think all this non-clutch hitting is the reason for the draft picks today,Or the refusal to hit is more like it!!!

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 7:24 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger, real or imagined … Hudson seemingly has had a problem with high humidity … perhaps unrelated, I doubt that his mechanics are so flawed that they oscillate like a sine curve so his recent problems, as is so often the case, have their origins above the neck. We look for specific problems … I’m not sure that the problem is not like a virus … and is permeating the team, pitchers and hitters alike.

On the Bobby Cox Show, Bobby is discussing the importance of the pitcher’s location … maybe the answer is relocation.

By A-ville Ranger

June 7, 2007 7:31 PM | Link to this

N8 How thoughtless of you.I do have a seeing eye dog,in fact a whole team of them.They pull me in a wagon to braille-bingo nights at the moose lodge.

By DonCoburleone

June 7, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this

DOB, what do you make of McCann being moved to the #7 spot in the order? You think it’s because of his struggles or is it more because of Diaz’s success?

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Elder Cato, I don’t get Sports South which I imagine is the interview source to which you refer … but it will be sehr, sehr interesting to see how tonight’s drama unfolds.

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Elder Cato, I don’t get Sports South which I imagine is the interview source to which you refer … but it will be sehr, sehr interesting to see how tonight’s drama unfolds.

Oops …

By DonCoburleone

June 7, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Great, there goes Soriano again… It looks like your jinx didn’t work DOB…

By Berigan

June 7, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

You know, (Everyone knows but Bobby ;) )

we don’t need Pete Orr, and Woodward, but geez guys, Woodward hits a homer on Tuesday, and after Weds. game, everyone wants him released. I know, he has not been great. But, Woodward is ok for defensive replacement late in a game, he just has had too much playing time since we have no bench. He is on pace to play in 142 games and 270 A.B’s!!! Good grief! That should be around half as many games and AB’s.

Chris, I expect a check soon! ;)

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Elder Cato, I don’t get Sports South which I imagine is the interview source to which you refer … but it will be sehr, sehr interesting to see how tonight’s drama unfolds.

Oops …

By N8

June 7, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger

“N8 How thoughtless of you.I do have a seeing eye dog,in fact a whole team of them.They pull me in a wagon to braille-bingo nights at the moose lodge.”

If you are telling the truth….I’m Sorry.

If you’re being sarcastic. That’s about the funniest thing I’ve read in a couple of weeks.

BTW: Nice start to tonight’s game.

(sigh)

By N8

June 7, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Hmmm. Andruw in the Cleanup spot.

Why not bat him leadoff? It’s a perfect match. You’ve got Thorman and the pitcher in the 8 and 9 spots.

That way there will be NOBODY on base for Andruw when he comes up, thus helping to improve his average with RISP. Because, after all, it’s hard to fail, when you don’t have the opportunity.

I literally think Bobby has lost his mind.

WHY NOT Diaz at 1B, and Harris in LF?

Unreal.

By D-Cider

June 7, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this

somebody email Jackson and Sharpton, the Braves drafted an African-American player!! glad to know UCLA was a backup plan, might cost the Braves some bucks though. here is a nice little article on Heyward from RiseMag.com

http://www.risemag.com/main.cfm?actionID=globalShowStaticContent&screenkey=showContent&htmlId=9200

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Tomorrow’s AJC headline … Young James and Old Shilling have something in common … neither had a nohitter lastnight!

Good damage control!

By DonCoburleone

June 7, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Whew, got outta that with only 1 run - Nice job Chucky…

By A-ville Ranger

June 7, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

I have the inside info on Paris Hilton’s illness.I have it directly from the doctor who examined her.She apparently developed a severe case of lock-jaw while engaged in negotiations with the L.A. county sheriff.

By DonCoburleone

June 7, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

Phillies up 1-0 on a Jimmy Rollins single… Man, that guy is beginning to be hated in New York (nothing like Chipper though).

By brian

June 7, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

per Jayson Stark

Clubs that have asked the Braves about Jarrod Saltalamacchia report they’ve been turned down flat. But by July, the Braves expect to have a better read on whether Scott Thorman is the answer at first and/or whether Saltalamacchia can be an alternative first base option. And those answers will determine whether Saltalamacchia becomes their No. 1 trading chip at the deadline — but only for a major player whom they’d control for multiple years.

By flange1

June 7, 2007 7:51 PM | Link to this

Berigan,

I think you forget a large part of the Millwood for Estrada trade, It webt like this:

Greg Maddaox accetps arbitration, unexpectedly, for over 10 million per tear.

JS take a deep breath and

Trades Millwood and his 10 million salary for Jonny Estrada.

More ot the picture than a 1 ofr 1, you know what I mean????

We dumped salary…Period. and got lucky Estrada was decent, that was the only offer JS had…I guess he could have Marcus Gilesed him

By Carroll Rogers

June 7, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

DRAFT question…..I’m trolling for comments again for a story I’m doing for Sunday on the draft. I wanna know if you watched the draft today on ESPN2. If so, why. If not, why not? It’d be great if a couple of you can shoot me emails telling me so. I’m at crogers@ajc.com. Please include your first and last name, hometown and phone number.

Oh and Ron on Cody Johnson. It wasn’t pretty last year for last year’s first round pick who hit .184 in the Gulf Coast League. He struck out 49 times in 114 at-bats. Don’t need to say more. Braves are hoping it’s his youth - he was only 17 when drafted. They’ll send him to shortseason Danville to see if he can get something rolling in a positive direction.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 7:56 PM | Link to this

BobJ, funny stuff at 7:46, friend.

By John B.

June 7, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

Don: It’s because Hill is a lefty. Bobby always seems to drop McCann in the order when he faces a lefty.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

The Cubs’ hit and run in the 2nd was perfection. Haven’t seen anything like that from the Braves in weeks.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this

The Braves have gotten 1 run off Hill in 15 innings. The score is 2-0. Maybe if we play 27 innings we can tie the game.

By N8

June 7, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

eric the elder

“The Cubs’ hit and run in the 2nd was perfection. Haven’t seen anything like that from the Braves in weeks.”

The last one I can think of (honestly), was the triple play we hit into against Colorado. Must’ve made Bobby “gun-shy”. LOL!

Did Andruw actually take that ball to RF or was he late on a fasball?

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

He’s 1 for 13 but he’s still doing great?! What kind of hype is that? He’s 1 for 13 but before the onset of this offensive drought, he was doing great!

I guess … when our heros are going poorly, we say “not to worry, when it’s over his numbers will be there” … but when those we don’t like are going well, it’s “it’ll never last!”

Not to worry, Chuck only gives up 5.83 hits a game and they already have 5 … we’ll be fine!

By A-ville Ranger

June 7, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

Derek Lee is one smooth,loose amigo.Andruw goes deep to right,what a tease.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

BobJ, stop it, you’re breaking me up!

Is it just me or is Renteria starting to look like a bit of a liability at short? His range seems limited, and his arm seems weak. Not bashing - - he’s been one of our steadiest players - - but when I compare Yunel’s throws to his, it’s night and day.

By ncscoots

June 7, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

eric, Yunel is gonna make most other arms look bad, at least those not attached to Rolen or Furcal.

By N8

June 7, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

I was thinking the same thing about Renteria, a couple of weeks ago, Eric.

But here’s the thing, would you rather have Tony Pena Jr.’s glove…..AND his bat?

While Renteria is certainly NOT Rafael Furcal at SS, he is a very good OVERALL player. Steady with the glove, steady with his throws, steady with his bat.

So, I’m not sure (for this year), that there is anybody else I would like playing SS for us. Maybe Escobar changes my mind, and we move Renteria this off-season. But for now, I’m more than fine with Edgar.

But I don’t think you’re too far off base with your assessment.

By brian

June 7, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Carroll,

How about giving us the scoop on the Braves’ sandwich pick and both second rounders?

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Elder Cato, I could say the same about you … but I won’t!

Yes I will!

Two things, then I’ll stop …

First, methinks Renteria’s range is adequate though really not top drawer … but the perception that his arm is weak is on the mark … but, that’s nothing new … overall, methinks he’s a solid performer even if he is 1 for 14 … though I believe Escobar will be something special.

Second … well forget the second, Andruw evidently just singled up the middle. No, I was going to suggest that Andruw’s pulled homerun might prove to be the worse thing that could happen.

Frencky, a single would have tied the game!

By N8

June 7, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Is it just me, or does it seem like in the last two weeks, every one of our hitters has a 1-2 or an 0-2 count before the pitcher throws the first pitch?

Those 2 out RBI’s aren’t coming as often as before, either.

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

For the curious, the “ky” wasn’t a typo … just my frustration with Jeff shinning through.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

Bob, methinks Renteria is still hitting .322 (after his 0-for-2 start tonight), that he came into the game batting .340 in 99 at-bats with runners on base, and that he leads the majors with a .403 average after the sixth inning. That’s what methinks.

Oh, and he has five errors in 57 games.

By F

June 7, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Eric the Bob stop it you’re cracking us up.

By F

June 7, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Eric the Bob stop it you’re cracking us up.

By F Y I

June 7, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

Eric the Bob stop it! you’re cracking us up.

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

Keep ‘em straight Cato, the wife’s been ailing and I’m elected to fix supper … she doesn’t cotton to sousemeat and cheese … maybe a can of pork’n beans, sardines and saltines.

By N8

June 7, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Here we sit again with Chuck. 70 pitches coming into the 6th inning. Without a very effortless inning this inning, he won’t be going 8 or more today.

Very nice results, he just seems to labor more than he needs to.

Like I said earlier today, I think he’s a GREAT 4th or 5th starter. But he needs to have a better “out pitch” to attack hitters with. When (if) he perfects that, he may very well be a Jamie Moyer type guy. I’m not ready to compare him to Glavine, but I’m guessing being Left Handed, he’ll be able to pitch as long as he wants.

Hell, if Redman can find a job, I’m sure Chuck will be OK.

Sure would’ve been nice to have a healthy Mike Hampton, huh?

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

I was sitting next to Bobby in the dugout during batting practice when they brought the first-round pick, Jason Heyward over to meet the manager.

Cox got up and shook his hand, and after talking to the kid, came back to the dugout and said to a couple of us, “Boy, is he big. Whew…. He is strong. I’ve got big hands, and he just ….” At this point Bobby illustrated how the young dude’s hand basically swallowed Bobby’s when they shook.

Folks, this guy’s a man. Most of these young kids they draft out of high school are either pudgy with baby fat, or gawky/skinny and not filled out. But this guy is legit 6-4/6-5 (he said 6-5) and 230 pounds, filled out and looks strong as all he*@.

They say he just crushes. Hopefully they let him take batting practice after he signs. I’d like to see it.

Really nice guy, too. And well-spoken. His family was on the field with him, seems like a great set of parents, courteous 11-year-old brother who came over and asked for Bobby’s autograph, said “sir” after everything and couldn’t have been more polite and well-mannered. It was nice to see.

By ncscoots

June 7, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Sure would’ve been nice to have a healthy Mike Hampton, huh?

Why, nathan? Are there so few targets for your contempt that you wish one more?

By brian

June 7, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB - Joe Simpson just asked your favorite question. Will Chipper Jones play some 1B when he returns? He says that Yunel is playing so well, and 1B, well, has not been our strong suit.

I still prefer Salty at 1B and Chipper at 3B with Yunel eventually being our SS

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this

Joe Simpson just asked whether BC might consider playing Chipper at first base! Joe is only about 18 months behind this blog.

By F Y I

June 7, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Simpson broke the taboo and mentioned that first may be the best position for Chipper.We can only hope management wakes up.

By brian

June 7, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this

Rumor mill: Edgar and JoJo Reyes for Rich Harden or Dan Haren

Just kidding

By MBATL

June 7, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

N8, Chuck’s thrown 85 pitches in 6 IP… or about 14 pitches per inning. That’s a great ratio. “Won’t be going more than 8”? What do you expect? 2 Runs in 6 innings is a 3.00 ERA.

Now, of course he’ll probably get blasted in the 7th… but up to now, this is a very fine performance.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

By the way, Andruw’s homer was not “pulled.” Quite the contrary, it was an opposite-field shot down the right-field line.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist

“Not to worry, Chuck only gives up 5.83 hits a game and they already have 5 … we’ll be fine!”

You weren’t lyin’, were you?

Nice call.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

“Joe Simpson just asked whether BC might consider playing Chipper at first base! Joe is only about 18 months behind this blog.”

Or about 2 hours away from getting fired.

By Steve from OH

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

7 strong from Chucky….lets get some friggin’ runs already!

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

If this Rich Hill faced the Braves every night, he’d win the Cy Young. This is ridiculous, how well he pitches against them.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:16 PM | Link to this

Totally agree with you MBATL. I would take this out of Chuck everytime.

It just was looking like he was gonna labor a little more in the 6th, when I made the comment.

2 ER in 7 IP, is just fine by me.

Don’t look now, but I just made a comment without complaining. :-)

On a side note, is Tim Duncan the most underappreciated superstar the NBA has ever seen? He should change his name to Steady Eddy. The guy is consistanty great….on both ends of the court.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

DOB, seems like we could say that about a lot of opposing pitchers this year.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this

DOB it’s not Rich Hill per se.

It’s anybody that pitches with their left hand.

I’m not going to far out on a limb, when I say that I believe Mark Redman would shred through this lineup.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

MBATL

This is just a “gut” feeling. But after Yates pitches this inning, you’ll know why I need/expect Chuck to be able to go 8 innings, when he’s pitching as good as he did tonight.

By MBATL

June 7, 2007 9:27 PM | Link to this

N8, that’s progress:) On the most underappreciated superstar… I’m thinking of any sport… right off the top of my head, I can’t think of a better candidate than Duncan. I agree!

By ElbravoX

June 7, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Hill and a bunch of wanna be’s would win the Cy Young. Braves DO NOt adjust, ever.

By AMG

June 7, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

This Cy-Hill guy is a pretty good pitcher… . Would probably win 20 games if he played in the NL East and got to face the Braves 5-6 times each year.

By Rally Monkey

June 7, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Decent game by James after a rough start. No problem though. Our pitching holds the opposition to a couple of runs, our offense will take care of business.

At least that’s what I hear.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

How many close was I to being right, on that Derosa drive?

By Steve from OH

June 7, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Interesting, Salty for Thor…do I hear any happy bloggers out there?

By Bill

June 7, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

I believe the Braves have screwed up this draft, except the first pick. I know you roll the dice after first round but it doesn’t look good.

By ssiscribe

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

Hey Carroll, the guy you mentioned at the top of the blog who works for Lonnie Cooper, is that the Victor Menocal who played at Gainesville High and Georgia Tech?

Just curious what had happened to him (he was drafted by the Braves out of high school, went to Tech, then was drafted by, I believe, the Phils. I lost track of him when he made it to A ball, and when I moved to the beach).

By the way, it’s Menocal, not Minocal. I wrote it enough to know, LOL. Great guy and one of the absolute best high school baseball players these eyes ever saw during my scribin’ days.

OK, back to the game, already in progress. Peace.

—30—

By SteelCav

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

Would someone please wake up our offense. Poor Chucky. Heck of a game kid.

By Rally Monkey

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

It’s good the Mets are not playing well, we aren’t losing ground to them.

Oh crap! Over our shoulder there! It’s the Phillies! lol

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

Here’s what I don’t understand about Bobby. He keeps putting Thorman out there against lefties. I’ll assume, he’s trying to “build his confidence” up. I’m OK with that. Really, I am.

But then when it’s “crunch time”, he pinch hits for him. HELLO. McFLY!!!

How the hell is that supposed to build his confidence? Uh, yeah….Scotty, I’m gonna pinch hit for you here, because I don’t trust you with the game on the line, just ALL the other AB’s along the way.

At this point, Craig Wilson has to be sitting at home shrugging his shoulders.

Hey DOB, speaking of the “wasted” 2 million dollars spent on Wilson. Wouldn’t a guy like Wes Helms have been a better guy on the bench than Wilson? He can play 3B and 1B.

I know, silly question for the middle of June. But I remember thinking (and mentioning), that Helms would’ve been a nice fit on this team last winter.

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

David, methinks you’re right ‘bout Edgar … that’s what methinks! Twas how it was said … rather than what, that caught my ear.

Like Mt Reed said, ” … when you’re not, you’re not!”

The only time I get upset … relative to Edgar … is when he’s not on the lineup card.

Courteous 11-year-old brother who came over said “sir” after everything and couldn’t have been more polite and well-mannered … It was nice to see

You know how I feel about that too! Sign both boys tonight and start playing the elder tomorrow!

Jason, not Eric!

Still, methinks that the youngster’s politeness is worthy of note is kinda sad … but you are to be applauded for having so done! That’s what methinks!

My brother thinks that my revival of “methinks” has created a monster here in the Blog neighborhood … that’s what he thinks, though he gave his approval … his last email closed with “the rednecks visiting the blog will think you guys went to Harvard or something … that’s what methinks” … I’m not exactly sure what he meant since his kids went to Yale!

By Rally Monkey

June 7, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

LOL Simpson just said what I said earlier here about the Phils.

By mr baseball

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

Before I get to my main point, for those of you have been watching the game, I hope you now understand the concept of platooning. Unless Hill makes a serious mistake, the Braves’ lefty hitters ARE NOT GOING TO HIT HIM. If the numbers haven’t convinced you, seeing is believing. And if you don’t believe what you see, not much more I can say.

That said, I ask again, WHY IS SALTY NOT PLAYING FIRST BASE? Mr. O’Brien, I understand that the manager doesn’t like unpleasant questions, but this one isn’t all that uncomfortable. Is Salty not playing 1B because (a) Cox doesn’t think he’s ready defensively, or (b) because Cox doesn’t want both catchers on the field at the same time?

If the answer is (a) it’s understandable, even though some of us might disagree. If the answer is (b), someone needs to politely tell Cox that he needs to grow a pair and quit managing like a wuss, all worried that one of his catchers might get hurt, and oh dear, what shall I do? Guessing the answer is (a), and if so, Salty probably should go back to the minors, because playing once a week ain’t cutting it.Especially if he can’t pinch hit because of (b).

Someone also needs to approach the impeccably dressed GM and ask him one blunt question: What genius leaves a .225 hitting rookie as the ONLY first baseman on a roster, especially when the team faces LH pitchers just about every other day? This is getting ridiculous. Given his history, it’s obvious that Schuerholz thinks whoever plays 1B has to be a great hitter; why else would be be playing 1B.

I guess he thinks that if he goes out and gets a replacement for Wilson, it will magnify the fact that he overpaid for an underperforming backup, and his ego evidently won’t stand for that. Finding a replacement for Wilson can’t be that hard or that expensive. Salty would be a fine backup first baseman offensively, and if proves that he can’t handle the position defensively, let’s look elsewhere. But to continue the way things are with Thorman playing every day is just dumb. There’s no other way to put it.

The problem with the team is not pitching. Davies is inconsistent, but has pitched enough strong games to stay in the rotation. James has been pretty decent every time out, he just doesn’t get deep into games. The 5th spot is a black hole, and the 1 guy who pitched well there gets a ticket back to Richmond. That move is going to look pretty silly if Smoltz can’t go Sunday, unless the Braves can invent some injury for one of the relievers on the current roster.

All this fantasy talk about if/when to trade Salty for who/to where is amusing, but to those of us who live in a reality-based world, the questions about his playing time RIGHT NOW are a little more pressing.

DOB, see if you can get us some answers, please.

By Ron

June 7, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

Basically we are guaranteed to loose against the Oliver Perez and Rich Hill type pitchers!!!

By Jim

June 7, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

N8 — If you’re not going to compare Chuck James with Glavine yet, maybe you should. Compare their first 2 years!

Glavine: 2 - 4 in 9 games in ‘87 with a 5.54 ERA (50 IP -> 5+ innings / start)

In ‘88 7 - 17 with a 4.56 ERA (34 games 195 IP -> 5 and 2/3 innings / start)

in ‘89 14 - 8 with a 3.68 ERA

In ‘90 10 - 12 with a 4.28 ERA

Granted, Glavine pitched for some bad teams in the ’80s, but at this stage of their careers, Chuck James has put up better numbers.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH

“Interesting, Salty for Thor…do I hear any happy bloggers out there?”

Are you REALLY telling me that you didn’t see Salty pinch hitting and then being replaced at 1B by Woodward?

Come on….try and keep up. LOL!

By Bob, Journalist

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

It was an opposite-field shot down the right-field line … fantastic!! … maybe the booing had a positive influence.

However, I do believe that I heard pulled .. but also that I heard rightfield corner, now that I think of it!

David, I could be guilty of hearing what I expected to hear … thanks for the correction!

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Bob, just tweaking you, my man. Just having fun.

Like the Braves have against Rich Hill. Yikes!!!!

By SteelCav

June 7, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

9 pitches??????…we didn’t even give ourselves a chance to rally…LOL.

By Steve from OH

June 7, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

We need to be more patient at the plate. Period.

By Shagger

June 7, 2007 9:52 PM | Link to this

Man it used to be fun years ago when the Braves were still alive.

By N8

June 7, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

DOB

With our recent home/road splits in the win column. Has ownership considered playing all of our “home” games in San Juan, the way the Expos did a few years back.

If we did that ASAP, we might actually reel off 60 wins in the next 70 games. That is unless Hill or Perez or any ofhter lefty starts against us. Then it doesn’t matter.

Our batters are so baffled against left handed pitching, that I firmly believe that if a left handed person, used his (or her) left hand to set a ball on a tee, our hitters would STILL swing and miss. That’s how pathetic it is.

Nice game tonight Chuck. Oh well.

By JJMB

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

Mr. Baseball, don’t expect O’Brien to ask the tough questions. Not going to happen. Oh, he’ll blast people on this anonymous forum, but confronting Cox ain’t gonna happen. Heck, the nutless AJC would probably fire him.

I don’t blame him for wanting to keep his job.

By TennesseePaul

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

Rather uneventful ending to that game. Glad to see Chuck James get 7 strong. The guy is good. He’s going to be a good asset to this team as the season goes on. Now we just need the Phillies to sweep.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

mr baseball, based only on tonight, the answer would seem to be (a). BC pinch hit Salty in a 2-1 game. If we had tied it and then McCann rolled the ankle again, we would have been without a catcher.

When Schuerholz said that Salty is a catcher, period, either he was giving marching orders to BC or BC took a stand with Schuerholz. The Braves management is as secretive as a Dick Cheney meeting with oil execs, so we’ll probably never know.

By StingerSplash

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

As someone who has also grown up following the Red Sox, along with the Braves, one thing I have learned is… It is never too early to panic. The Braves have lost seven of eight at home now and last year’s dreadful stretch was punctuated by one of the worst homestands since the French army in 1940. And now? Should we start singing “Metsland uber alles?”

By Jim

June 7, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

61 down, 101 to go

By N8

June 7, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Nice find Jim about the Glavine/James comparison.

But Glavine was also 21 when he came up and started right away. James was half way through his second season (age 24) when he got his first start.

And you said it, Glavine was on some horrible teams, pitching in a hitters park.

Of course, last years team wasn’t very good either, so Chuck could make the same argument. LOL!

Anyway, I just meant that Chuck more than likely isn’t going to the HOF without a ticket, like Jamie Moyer. Not insinuating that Chuck couldn’t have similar individual seasons as successful as Glavine’s were. Nothing more, nothing less.

By BravesDave

June 7, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

Another night of top-notch adjustments by the Braves hitters. They have now faced Hill three times this season, and still refuse to sit on his curveball…even though it is basically the only pitch he throws for a strike.

From 24-12 to 33-28…in a heartbeat.

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

mr baseball: Bobby has said this weekend a position player will be called up and a pitcher sent down. I’d speculate that Pena will be called up. The guy has been trying out several positions in the minors. If this is the case, then playing Salty and/or Pena in a non-catchers spot becomes more likely. At that point, it won’t matter about option (b).
As for the lefty righty platoon… the team record should be enough to show that this isn’t working. Regardless of Hills quality tonight. If a pitchers on, then he’s on and no matter who’s in the line up, they’re going to have to work at it to get hits. I’d like to see a string of games without this platoon just to see how it would work. We face more lefties than most teams because most teams know if they throw a lefty at us, no matter the quality of said lefty, they will be playing against the bench.

By SteelCav

June 7, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

JJMB - Wow. Gotta love it when someone trashes the blog host. Tell me, what should DOB do? P** off BC so much that he blows DOB off completely? BRILLIANT!

By Ron

June 7, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Bill, you said earlier you think that the Braves have screwed up the draft other than their first pick. I dont think so, I think they have done just as good as any team has. this is their draft so far!!!

2nd Round- Jonathan Gilmore-2nd base, and 3rd base- good raw power, defense not as good but descent I suppose.

3rd Round- Josh Fields-RHP- Could be a future closer, has a good fastball, struggled last year but could be very good.- a possible steal pick!!!

Another 3rd Round Pick- Fredrick Freeman-1baseman- have no clue how good he is.

4th Round- Brandon Hicks-SS- Speedy shortstop with excellent defense skills and tremendous makeup, not much hitting ability, Probably a backup SS with alot of speed and can steal bases, and great defense!!! Tony Pena Jr. but with alot of speed, not a bad pick at all!!!

5th Round- Cory Gearrin-RHP- Sidearmer, could be a descent middle or setup guy.

6th Round- Dennis Dixon-OF- I have no idea how good he is!!!

All in all not too bad, but really we will not know for another 3 or 4 years how good these players will be!!! I think that it is a solid draft so far!!!

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

For us fans, the biggest problem isn’t losing. The Braves are verging on committing the cardinal sin of boring us to death.

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this

AHAHAHAHAA Phillies came through so far. Rollins single. Sac bunt. Utley Double. Intentional walk to Howard. Top of the 10th. Playing 10 because Wagner blew it. I hate to say it but, LET’s GO PHILLIES

By Jim

June 7, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

I though it was ironic that someone proposed that we package Salty to Boston for (among others) David Bard. We could have drafted Bard last year 1 pick before the Red Sox!

By Jack

June 7, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this

Pitchers cant pitch—batters cant hit—-manager cant manage—coaches cant coach—-need i say more—-the wheels have now come off.

By Bob, Journalist

June 7, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this

The thanks were sincere David!

I told you James would be fine … timing is everything and you can walk on water if you know where rocks are!

Goodnight Miss Allen

By TennesseePaul

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

Aaron Rowand pads the lead. Phillies up 5-3. 1 out.

By N8

June 7, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Yeah, DOB, you should storm into Bobby’s office and go all “Hal McRae” on his a$$!

Imagine DOB with a hand on Bobby’s throat and the other hand holding a piece of the telephone he just smashed against the wall, ready to beat Bobby over the head with it, shouting:

THE BLOGGERS NEED TO KNOW!!!, “what’s up with Salty?”

What’s the matter Colonel Sanders…….CHICKEN?

Just kidding DOB.

PS: Relax Robert. It’s not actually gonna happen.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Good post, JJMB. Nothing like blasting people in this anonymous forum, huh?

Hey genius, I’m the ONE PERSON ON HERE WHO ISN’T ANOYNYMOUS.

Seriously, you might just have written the stupidest post of the week, maybe the season. Ding-ding-ding. Bell’s rung for the tough-talkin’ mental giant named JJMB.

By SteelCav

June 7, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

Aaron Rowand - starting CF for the Braves in ‘08. I can dream, can’t I?

By BravesDave

June 7, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this

Looks like this season’s ‘June Swoon’ started in May.

Did anyone notice that, lost in all the disgust over the recent troubles of the Braves, they have lost 9 of the the last 11 games they have played against the Nationals, Marlins, and Phillies. 9 of 11. That is not the look of a division winner. After all that early good work against the Mets and Phils, the Braves are now a .500 team against the NL East.

Not to mention now losing their second straight to the Cubs and facing Marshall tomorrow…same guy who shut them down big time on Sunday.

By Jeff321

June 7, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

I’ve been a Braves fan since 1981. With that said, The Braves aren’t going to get any better regardless of “trades” until Bobby Cox is given the old-fashioned, hand-crafted, BOOT! He makes the same p**-poor decisions day after day and we need a new perspective. Is that asking too much?

By JasonInMaine

June 7, 2007 10:19 PM | Link to this

Damn the torpedos…this team sucks!

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Now we have to sit through Braves 2006 Bullpen in Shea tonight. If they can hold it, the Phillies will have the sweep and the Braves will still be 3.5 back. No ground lost. I’d rather gain ground but this is better than losing it.

By Rally Monkey

June 7, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

I love the Braves. Watch these guys every night and many of the day games. Listen to them when they are playing day games that I can’t watch.

Gotta go North next week to visit my wife’s family at the beach. If the Braves aren’t on TBS or ESPN, I’m going to miss the games. I can honestly say I need this. This is becoming painful to watch. But I do have MLB audio feeds so I guess I’ll listen to most of the games.

Is it just me or is it time to put the names in the hat and draw out the batting order?

By N8

June 7, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this

I know everybody is talking about Chipper’s un-availability effecting the Braves. But upon checking the schedule/results, we are 8-14 since Gonzalez went down.

I know he only came into the games when we had the lead or were tied. But we were 16-2 in games he pitched in this year.

On the other hand, we are 6-8 since Chipper last started a game.

Just found that interesting.

By MBATL

June 7, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Real tough to be positive after another loss. I’ll just say this: I think we’ve scored 14 runs in our last 6 games… what’s that, 2.33 runs/game? We’re a better offensive club than that, and it’ll change, most likely.

Good performance by James tonight. Mets lost… we live to fight another day.

By Head Coach

June 7, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Another lefty , another butt kicking. 12-16 against these southpaws now. Iceberg(losing record) , DEAD AHEAD !

By TennesseePaul

June 7, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Phillies won. Mets are on a 4 game losing streak. I thought our team was in the sh!tcan those Mets are toast. They should start selling off all the stars.

Thought I’d get in with the reactionaries on a different point of view.

By Rally Monkey

June 7, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

SteelCav

I’m not laughing. Have to consider what will be availible next year if Andruw walks. Rowand has been on my short list for some time now. Every time they play the Phillies I try to imagine what he would look like in a Braves uni.

There are three reasons why this isn’t an off the wall idea. Number one, he’s a free agent next year. Two, he plays a decent center field and can hit. And three, he isn’t going to command Andruw Jones money. So in essence, he could be signed and the Braves would still put money in their pocket.

By BravesDave

June 7, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

The old adage is speed never slumps. The Braves have no speed. The Braves slump.

By eric the elder

June 7, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Mets lose. As for the Phils, in the words of our leader, “Bring ‘em on.” Florida, too. Let’s just have a good old-fashioned shootout in the second half.

With any luck, tomorrow is another day. G’nite all.

By JJMB

June 7, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Hey, Dave, sorry to hurt your feelings.

NOW GO AND ASK SOME TOUGH QUESTIONS

By SteelCav

June 7, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Rally Monkey - wholeheartedly agree. Rowand’s a professional hitter and gives 100%. Just seems like a Bobby Cox kind of guy. I think Atlanta would take to him very kindly and vice versa.

By Fastfoodfreak

June 7, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

didn’t get a chance to see the game… got to see my son play softball for the first time tonight. There’s nothing like being dad out there, cheering your son on.

At least the Mets lost. I hate depending on other teams to keep the Braves from falling into the tank, but still just 3 out. This swoon can’t, and I believe won’t, last forever. I have nothing to base it on, except just a hunch.

By Turnin2

June 7, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Just returned from the game - I think I think I figured it out - and no, I’m not advocating trading for anyone - I think we’re just fine with the personnel we have (especially trading for Jr.?? — OMG NO! —) Tonight it hit me, they seem to have lost the confidence to comeback that they had at the beginning of the year — absence of Chipper in the lineup maybe? Any thoughts??

By Coach

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

Run support in April 5.33 runs per game , 16 wins 9 losses. Run support in May 4.28 runs per game , 14 wins 14 losses. Run support so far in June 3.37 runs per game 3 wins 5 losses. It’s such a cliche , but so true. If you don’t score , you don’t win.

By gotigers72

June 7, 2007 11:07 PM | Link to this

Yes, Rich Hill pitched a good game, but the Braves helped him by swinging at a lot of bad pitches. What was up with Edgar? He usually doesn’t swing at that many bad pitches in a month, much less in one game.

Methinks the Braves are pressing. How else to explain the power outages in multiple Braves this year. Francoeur, Andruw, McCann are all behind last year’s numbers in Homers. Way behind. I know Chipper being out has an effect on the entire lineup, but not that much effect.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Get this: Braves have hit .224 and scored 28 runs while going 2-8 in their past 10 home games.

This after going 14-7 in their first 21 home games.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

JJMB, I can assure you that your insipid comments have absolutely no bearing on my outlook, feelings, or overall mental state. But they are good for a chuckle.

Now quit playing tough guy and using CAPS to tell folks how to do their jobs, when you haven’t a clue.

By JasonAC

June 7, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

I think trading for Jr. would be great if the Reds ate an adequate amount of his salary. It probably wouldnt take a whole lot and honestly, with the lack of pitching available, we are gonna have to do something with the offence if we wanna get anywhere. Trading for a mediocre starter is definitly not the answer. If I were JS, i would definitly entertain the thought of the two best Center fielders in baseball history in the same outfield. It would sale a lot of tickets.

By Rally Monkey

June 7, 2007 11:26 PM | Link to this

Turnin2

I don’t know how Chipper will react when he gets back. Everyone from John Kruk to the Braves announcers to people in the print media and even the POPE have declared that the Braves success depends on Chipper returning soon. Smoltz and Francouer have said practically the same thing in interviews. When I heard that I began to worry.

I wish someone would come up with an original concept. Something like….. someone besides Chipper is going to have to step up. This team is going to have to get used to playing without Chipper. He’s getting older. He is injury prone. He doesn’t heal well. And… he’s not going to play a full season ever again. (my opinion) That’s not an indictment on Chipper’s character that’s just a fact of having an aging, injury prone superstar.

Is the team better with him? Of course they are! Should they just try to hold the fort until he returns? If that’s the attitude they have, then it’s going to get uglier.

The sooner other Braves begin to take on field leadership roles the sooner they will have a chance to turn things around.

If they spend their lives wishing Chipper were back, it could be a long season.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

N8, just saw your post. That was exactly my reaction, the chuckle I referred to, when I read bruiser JJMB’s post.

I was envisioning walking into Bobby’s office with the media horde, listening to his very short answers to questions tonight in a news conference that lasted about 2 minutes because that’s how long he wanted it to last, and when the last pregnant pause was over, stepping up and going, “Alright, Mr. Cox. I want an answer. Why wasn’t Salty in there tonight facing a lefty? Why?

“And don’t look at me from behind that cigar with that smirk. I want to know why he wasn’t playing. JJMB wants to know. Braves/Man In Black demands to know.”

And if I didn’t get the answer I wanted, well, at least I only have to spend 101 more games asking him questions before and after games, hanging out in his office with one or two other writers for hours and hours in the course of a week. That’d be the way to go about fostering a relationship with the manager.

Then maybe you can be assured he’d never give you anything on or off the record that helps you understand what’s going on inside the organization or what he’s thinking in terms of big picture personnel moves, etc, and perhaps you’d even p#@# him off enough to give your competition a few things on and off the record because you’ve tried to bully a 66-year-old manager who’s forgotten more baseball than you’ll ever know in your lifetime, by asking him a question that there’s zero chance — ZERO — that he’s going to answer to your satisfaction.

Yeah, JJMB, you’ve obviously done this gig before.

By JJMB

June 7, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

Dave, you attack the messenger, but not the message. Do you think you ask the tough questions to Cox, JS, or the players? I’ve read you’ve lived in other cities. So have I. You know the Atlanta press is a bunch of pansies. Nothing too uncomfortable for anyone. You know it’s true.

Call me names, challege me to a fight. Go ahead.

PS Love the blog.

By David O'Brien

June 7, 2007 11:43 PM | Link to this

Call names, challenge you to a fight? Wow. You really are a piece of work. No, thanks.

But glad you like the blog.

By David Justice

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

Hey o’Brian, get over it! Sorry that you don’t like Cox’s post game media wrap up, sorry you can’t get that big break in the over populated world of sports journalism. Your a chump, and Cox is a hall of famer…done.

By N8

June 7, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

DOB

Maybe you could send Robert as a fill in once a week, when you need somebody to ask the “tough” questions. :-)

I totally get, whey Salty may not be in the lineup at 1B. Really. I get it.

EVERY other rookie that get’s called up (include him), get’s thrown into the fire right away. It’s just Bobby’s way of getting them involved from the get go, and showing the teammates what they can do.

So if Bobby hasn’t put him at 1B, than I get that he doesn’t think he’s ready. But I gotta tell you, putting Andruw back in the cleanup spot, baffles me.

He just kinda “sneaked” him back up the order. 6th one night, then again. 5th the next. Then BAM! Cleanup spot. And apparently he’s there to stay.

I just think that’s crazy. Regardless of the HR and 2 hits tonight.

But that’s just me. Oh well. Like I said earlier tonight. I trust JS to do the right thing with the roster moves. I also trust Bobby to eventually make a “move” with the lineup.

Maybe it’s time for something radical, like letting Smoltz pick the lineup. LOL!

I’d be real curious to hear what Smoltz (or Chipper) has to say about the lineup. I know they’re big Bobby guys. But I can’t believe that privately Smoltz isn’t wondering why Diaz and Harris can’t get in the game at the same time, Salty getting a shot at 1B, etc….

Hey. It doesn’t look like I’m gonna make it to Minneapolis for the games next week. Some crap came up at work. Glad I didn’t buy tickets yet, I guess. Almost did as soon as the schedule came out. Oh, well maybe I’ll make it there next time they play the Twins in Minnesota in 6 years. :-)

By JJMB

June 7, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

Dave, in my original post, I defended your position. I’ll admit it was in a smartass fashion, and you’re right to point out you’re the one that’s not anonymous.

I still think you’re a good guy, and do a good job covering the Braves.

Still, you don’t work for the Braves, and I wish you could ask those pointed questions. You would be the only one that could.

Lates

By Todd A

June 8, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

I think could shut down this Braves lineup,even with my bad rotator cuff.I may have to throw like Peter Moylan,but I think I could do it.These guys stink.

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

The contrast between the beginning of the season and now brings an old addage to mind: It’s not how high you jump, but how straight you walk when you come down. Jumped pretty high at the front, but have stumbled much since. Even turned some ankles and fallen on their hands. Man would I love to be a fly on the wall around JS these days. I still think that they not only need starting pitching, but 1 or 2 veteran position players that exude and instill some confidence in these young guys in Chipper’s absence. Andruw was poetry in the field tonight. He really is amazing out there. But they’ve got to have somebody else who can lead offensively.

By Trav in Alpharetta

June 8, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

the great Casey Stengel once said “Everybody is gonna win 54, everybody is gonna lose 54, its what you do with the last 54 that counts.” So everyone calm down, yeah the Bravos arent doing so well right now. So what. Last years champion won 83 games in the regular season. So for all of you p** and moaning, sack up and act like a true fan. If you want to enjoy the highs, you have to stomach the lows.

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

JJMB, I wouldn’t ask that question because it’s not a very good one. For one, if you’d watched the game Saturday when they faced Hill, you would have seen Salty start and go 0-for-3 against him with a fly out, an inning-ending popup to first base a runner in scoring position, and an inning-ending groundout.

Thorman was 0-for-2 against him in the same game.

Tonight, when Salty pinch-hit for Thorman, he struck out to start the eighth inning, making him 0-for-4 against Hill.

So I’m supposed to go in after a 2-1 loss in which the Braves got a total of three hits, two by Andruw, and ask why the backup catcher didn’t start at first base in place of the first baseman the Braves are still evaluating to determine if he has any chance to be their every-day first baseman and/or to try to show other teams he can play?

When they don’t have a third catcher on the roster yet (could if Pena is called up), and when the backup catcher in question, again, went 0-for-3 and left a runner in scoring position six days ago in his only at-bats against this same pitcher?

Like that move is an obvious one that should’ve been made tonight or something? No, it’s not. Even I don’t know that I would’ve played my backup catcher at first in that situation, not when Salty showed me nothing against this pitcher the other day that would lead me to believe it was worth making the move. And Bobby’s a hell of a lot more conservative with that kind of decision that I am.

If you’ve followed him over the past couple decades, you’d know that move was entirely predictable for Bobby tonight, so why would you ask him afterward? Especially when, as I pointed out, there’s not a body of work for either hitter against this particular pitcher to defend your own (yours, not mine) stance on the matter.

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 12:28 AM | Link to this

Drummerdad, you’re so right about two things: Andruw played a remarkable game in center field tonight, one that would make anyone look foolish for calling him the most overrated center fielder in the game. By the way, he also had two of the team’s three hits including a homer, and he stole a base. His best game in a long time.

And 2., these guys just don’t have the same swagger, the confidence, without Chipper in there. And pitchers don’t have to work around him and be so careful without him, don’t have to think so far ahead, etc, about what might happen if they don’t get Chipper out.

By fastasballs

June 8, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

The Braves are about as confident as a virgin on his wedding night.

I will applaud the defense tonight & Chuck James. That’s about the only positives from tonight, well that & the Muts lost again.

The only way they really beat Hill in Chicago was their defense gave it away much like Atlanta’s the other night.

Tomorrow night’s game will probably be more of the same, being dominated by a lefty. Bobby is going to have to shake things up. I’d play Willie for KJ & have him bunt every damn time up. Put some pressure of their defense, they will make an error sooner or later as we witnessed the last series against them. Play Salty for McCann & Woodward (oh God what am I thinking?) for Thor. The results can’t get any worse than they have been against lefties so what’s the harm?

They can’t lose games like tonights. I swear I have typed the previous line every day for two weeks. When your 3rd or 4th starter pitches a gem you have to find a way to win instead of wasting it. Carlyle’s (sp) start was almost wasted the other day had the rookie, that will remain nameless, homered.

Chipper needs to gather the kiddies around his locker & explain that Big Hoss is hurt & they can win without him, they have to win without him. I know this sounds crazy, hell I know it is, but this group looks like a bunch of kids who lost their dog.

By David O'Brien

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

Person calling himself David Justice, I think you must’ve misread my post, or don’t quite grasp the meaning. I was complimenting Cox by saying he’s forgotten more baseball that I’ll know (and the rest of you on the blog).

And of course he’s a Hall of Famer. Maybe you should argue with Robert (the blogger) about that one, you certainly won’t get a debate with me.

To be clear, I believe Cox is the best manager I’ve been around for 162 games, and Leyland is the only one as good or better that I’ve seen over the course of a regular season and playoffs combined, and that has a lot to do with Leyland unique ability deliver the fire-and-brimstone speech before a big game or series, to get guys to play their best without feeling too much pressure in the biggest games.

I’d take Cox over Torre, La Russa, any of them, having seen up close how he deals with every situation, and having talked to hundreds of players who’ve told me why he’s so good.

Lastly, I’m not waiting for any break in the world of journalism. I’m a baseball writer covering the Braves in Atlanta. What the hell other job would I aspire to?

I don’t want to cover another sport, have no interest whatsoever in working in New York, and would only consider moving to a couple of other cities, like San Diego, where I couldn’t afford to live in the kind of place I do in Atlanta.

So exactly what break am I waiting for? Damn, I thought I was pretty happy with my position. Guess I should be aiming for something else.

Oh, well, I’ll just keep muddling along, thinking I’m content. You do the same, DJ.

By Wayne in Utah

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

Dave: Many posts to this blog have their origins in the words of William Shakespeare:

“it is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.”

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

Scoots, regarding the post of the day or week, consideration should be given to our own, non-anon David O’B for … “On the list of priorities and moves that make sense, he’s not on the first three or four pages with me. And that’s if there’s about 100 potential moves on each page” … I concur on Junior but if there are 400 moves and priorities that make sense, then maybe we’re in worse shape than I had first imagined!

What’s wrong? Perhaps, as I’ve said before, it’s chemical … the more I think about it, the more I really so think … perhaps is the key word.

Perhaps there’s an apple somewhere of which we’re unaware … all I know is that when I think about it, I keep reaching the conclusion that they’re better than they’re showing!

Regardless of how we personally feel, it’s highly doubtful that any individual player’s below-the-neck performance can be held responsible for that which we’re witnessing … unless it’s the impact that Andruw’s offensive performance, above and below the neck, is having on the above-the-neck performance of others … again, perhaps.

Is the missing ingredient inner confidence? Perhaps.

Two things are for sure, at least I so posit … (1) it started before we started losing and (2) somebody has to take responsibility/accountability for the current dilemma … and for doing something about it … no perhapses!!

I’m sure that mechanical, player moves will be made to improve the team … most everyone thinks that’s the solution, regardless of the problem … and whatever Lola wants, … but don’t count on that being an effective solution … ‘cause it just might be that the level of talent isn’t the underlying problem … just maybe, perhaps.

Even keeled, levelheaded businessman approaches work well for levelheaded businessmen … perhaps.

“You win some, you lose some” and “those things happen” certainly have their place … but, so does let’s get it on!

You can’t teach leadership … not the kind that makes the difference … there’s a magic associated with both leadership and winning … I call it the Alpha … there’s at least a little Alpha in all of us … I still believe we’re gonna win … but the big Alphas have to step up make that happen … I’m convinced it ain’t gonna happen by itself!

Too tired to proof what I’ve written … but not too tired to care! It may well be nonsensical, but hopefully some will understand …

By JJMB

June 8, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Dave, you make good points. I am more thinking about playing Salty everyday. 1B, C, whereever. Heck, we’re losing our butts off anyway. Get his bat in there. Call up Pena.

The Braves look like total crap, Chipper is in two casts. Do you think he’ll be ripping the ball after doing nothing with his arms for 3-4 weeks? I don’t.

The offense is shot. Ka-put.

OH well. Dang, that Shield finale was good.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 12:47 AM | Link to this

Dave: I strive to be able to continue muddling along myself, thinking I am happy and content, until someone tells me otherwise. I follow your wise counsel!!

Thanks for your muddling, and please do continue.

I am turning in early. Willy Wally, maybe you can close this one out for me, as I need a break tonight from my closing duties.

By Coach

June 8, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

3.5 games behind the Mets and look in the rear view mirror at the team that is only 1.5 behind us , that would be the Phillies. We did alright in the draft , kinda surprising at all the position players that were drafted. Two outfielders , one first baseman , one short stop , one third baseman and two relief pitchers and no starting pitchers as of yet.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

JJMB: Are you sucking up now that you have been called on the carpet?

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

It just strikes me that we could benefit from some help say in left field and first base. I was trying to look at some stats for some guys. Maybe Jermaine Dye. not having a great year, but perhaps a change of scenery and back to the Braves he might have 2 solid years left. Haven’t got a clue on the particulars about his status. I like Diaz and Harris, but they haven’t been where Dye has been. Darren Erstad is another one I was wondering about. I think he was playing first for the Angels when they won the series. He hustles, is having a blah year and might dig the change.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:00 AM | Link to this

Drummerdad: I think Erstad is on the DL. Also, I think Kenny Williams really likes Dye. Although, they are usually quicker to pull the plug than most. Personally, I would prefer a guy like Jeff Conine who can play both, and would come with a fairly affordable salary.

Someone said Ohka was released today. Would we take a flier on him for a couple of weeks if Cormier bombs tomorrow night?

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

Wayne, did the Bard really say that? I’ve heard that he did too … but other people have taken credit, saying it was my utterings that first prompted its use.

Goodnight all!

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Oh jeez JJMB (whatever the heck that is supposed to mean…..) Are you gonna come out here to Utah and kick my butt???? Oh heck, I am sure scared.

You should just shut you pie hole, cause everytime you open it, you just confirm what everyone who reads this blog believes……

I hope you have a happy life out there in the real world, cause you sure as heck are not winning any friends here in blog land, especially coming after our man Dave like some sort of a dang fool.

Have a nice day!

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 1:07 AM | Link to this

Who knows, with the blah year that Baldelli is having, he might come available. The problem with him is having to deal with Tampa. They seem to be difficult. Or maybe it’s that I like the Red Auerbach shcool of trade negotiations. Give mediocre talent for good stuff. Tampa just seems tough to cut a deal with.

By i like teoa

June 8, 2007 1:10 AM | Link to this

teoa 5:49PM. I could not say it any better myself. Let’s keep the switch hitter. Thanks- Braves fan in 755 Club

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:13 AM | Link to this

Bob, journalist. You have been known to utter on occasion, but I am certain that they were not speaking of you, my friend….

One of my favorites follows…..

Late Lament (Graeme Edge)

Breath deep, the gathering gloom,

Watch lights fade from every room.

Bedsitter people look back and lament,

Another day’s useless energy spent.

Impassioned lovers wrestle as one,

Lonely men cry for love and have none,

Senior citizens wish they were young.

Cold hearted orb that rules the night,

Removes the colours from our site.

Red is gray, and yellow white,

But we decide which is right, and which is an illusion.

By Coach

June 8, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

Okay JJMB , you just crossed the line. you should be banned from this blog.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

JJMB: At least some of us real men on the blog go to bed with our wives. What about you, “$hit-for-brains”? Like I said, everytime you open your mouth, you confirm what we already know.

I think I hear your mommy coming to tuck you in…..

If it would make you feel better, we can meet outside your school tomorrow after recess, and you can try to beat me up……oooh, I am sooo scared.

Please leave your blog existence and go to your real life. Your existence here is going downhill fast.

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

Wayne, Conine might be more available, but he’s not what I had in mind. Dye is not Hoss, but he is a hoss. Hit 44 HR’s last year and essentially has a higher career average than Jeff Conine. Also, he is younger than Conine. He would be somebody in the lineup that pitchers would have to contend with and change their thinking on how they set their game plan. Right now, we don’t have that GUY in the lineup. If we picked up a Dye, a Conine might be a nice compliment.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:23 AM | Link to this

Drummerdad: Yes, word is that the Devil Rays are extremely hard to deal with. Baldelli would be a nice addition, but I wouldn’t want to give up too much for him, as he has been injury prone. Does have a good contract though.

With the struggles of Chipper and the potential upside of Saltalamacchia, I am not sure who I would want to offer for a Baldelli type. We can’t afford to give up any pitching that is major league ready.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:34 AM | Link to this

Drummerdad My thinking is that we probably can’t afford someone like Dye. If JS could pull it off, I would be THRILLED to get him. We really need some of the younger guys to take more of a leadership role. AJ with his yearlong slump has never been a vocal leader on the club. Renteria is not the type. That leaves it up to guys like Frenchy and “Baby Huey” McCann. Problem is, you gotta walk the walk if you are going to talk the talk. Chipper has always been able to do both.

Coach It seems I have made the major mistake tonight of responding to a blog idiot. I ask my friends on the blog to please forgive my transgression. I will try to not become engaged with these types for the rest of the night and throughout the upcoming weekend. He is much like some of the Mets fans on the blog. Best to just disregard them.

BTW What happened to the Mets guys for the past few nights??????

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 1:35 AM | Link to this

I think it was Tennessee Paul in here last night who said pretty interesting stuff about Chipper. His point was that if you compare Chipper with other greats at the same position the greats did not play as long or effectively as Hoss has.
Baldelli would be good for now and the future because of his contract. But somebody like Jermaine Dye helps bring some swagger and “bring the cheese” attitude to a club that really needs it right now. A little “Crash” if you please. Ther needs to be some disdain for opposing teams in these guys eyes.

By fastasballs

June 8, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this

JJMB You’re making the douche bag Met’s fans look good. Even they have never stooped to the sewer level of your posts.

It’s ashame we have to share oxygen with low lifes such as yourself.

By Braves Fan 79

June 8, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

I didnt see todays game because i was in tusculoosa visiting grandparents…but yesterdays game p** me off. First of all Bobby didnt play his best lineup…..i mean even u gotta admit Mr O’Brien that when either orr or woodward start the game our chances of winning around probably 50% at best. And when BOTH are in the lineup together id put our chances of winning at about 30% tops. And then how come Bobby used wickman and soriano BOTH when were up by 6 runs last week…but when the game is in reach like yesterday when it was 5-2….he brings in someone else and the games outa reach after they tack on 2 more. If Bobby brings in Soriano instead of poronto yesterday….we come back and win the game! This season is so fustrating….and its even more fustrating that its probably gonna take at least 92 or so wins to get the wildcard over a NL west opponent. We can do it yes….but weve gotta start beating teams were supposed to dominate! And Bobbys gotta play his best lineup and GET RID OF EX MET TRASH WOODWARD!!!!! Man i hate that guy like i hated Redmen!
I mean what the point of pitchitting for the pitcher when the pitchers a BETTER HITTER!!! And its not like hes amazing on defense either.

By fastasballs

June 8, 2007 1:45 AM | Link to this

Wayne, You’re right about the leadership of this team. Someone needs to take the torch from Chipper’s soft casted hands. Hoss of course resumes when he is back in the line up.

I think this team is talented enough to be a contender, they just havn’t realized it yet.

By OddJob

June 8, 2007 1:46 AM | Link to this

I posed a question to DOB and got no reply. Carlyle,Acosta and Hernandez are all pitching great in Richmond and BC isn’t calling them up,why not ? It’s not like they’re young and you’d worry about their development.In fact they’re all well past their mid twenties.With the obvious need what’s to lose ? .So what about it guys,what’s the deal ?

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:47 AM | Link to this

Coach I guess because I live in Utah, a certain blogger has made some assumptions about me, which may or may not be true. Although, if this person had been on the blog long, he would know I am a southern transplant to the west.

Now, living in Utah for 5 years, and in the west for 20 of my 50 plus years, I would have to say that the sort of garbage being spewed is certainly inappropriate for a sports blog. Besides, I have never met a more honorable group of people in my life, that this person has tried to denegrate tonight.

Interesting thing is, the latter days saints have been persecuted by many for over 150 years. Our blogging “friend” certainly is in questionable company in chosing to sling mud at an honorable people.

Now, I hope this blogger in question has not been peeping into my home, as he seems to think he knows my underwear. THAT is scary……

:-)

By mr baseball

June 8, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this

Having apparently started this tete a tete between JJMB & DOB, I’ll return to my original point. Would a simple question posed to the manager in a pre-game, non-confrontational manner be so out of line that it engenders ill feelings between the reporter and manager?

Q: Bobby, is Saltalamacchia not yet ready defensively to start at first base?

If the answer is yes, that’s it. If the answer is, “Maybe, we’re not sure,” or something similar, a follow up:

Q: Are you concerned about having both catchers on the field at the same time for the entire game?

If Pena is recalled, and Salty starts playing 1B against LH pitchers, we’ll know the answer to the first question was “He’s ready,” and the answer to the second question was “I’m concerned.”

If the Braves make a move and bring in a Jeff Conine/Eduardo Perez/Craig Wilson type (not him, just his type), or better yet — TY WIGGINTON — we’ll know the answer to the first question was “No, he’s not ready.”

Tonight’s lineup included 3 LH hitters & exactly 1 platoon starter. Someone said he was tired of seeing “the bench” start against lefties. The only “bench” player who started tonight was Diaz. Would the Braves have been better with Harris in LF against Hill?

In defense of the offense, the Braves have had a bunch of well hit balls the past several games head straight for opposition gloves. But there have also been some distressing at bats on the part of some of the team’s better hitters. Edgar looked like he had never seen a roundhouse lefty curveball tonight, and the LH hitters looked overmatched at times.

If Edgar, Andruw and Francouer don’t hit against lefties, the Braves have no shot. Diaz is not a run producer and Escobar is no substitute for Chipper.

It will be interesting to see how Cox handles the DH next week. Will he have Salty & McCann divide the catching & DH duties if Pena is recalled? Will he try to get Harris & Diaz in the game against RH pitchers? Will the Braves even bother to show up if Santana pitches for the Twins? And with some questions at the bottom of their rotation, will the Twins make a last-second swap with the Rangers for Mark Redman, who will then dazzle the Braves with his 84 mph fastball?

Inquiring minds want to know.

Finally, if Pena is recalled, exactly what function is he going to serve? Either Salty goes back to the minors or he doesn’t catch any more. Would the Braves bring Pena back to sit on the bench, occasionally pinch hit and keep the manager from fretting if Salty plays 1B while McCann catches.

Stay tuned, the countdown to a .500 record continues.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 1:50 AM | Link to this

Braves Fan 79: Whoa, man. It is just a game. We are all hurting a little these days, but let’s trust in our teams management and front office.

It is a long season, and to be honest, I think the key is Chipper getting back into the lineup.

By fastasballs

June 8, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

Braves Fan 79, Tonights game was just as frustrating, yet in different ways. James pitched well & the defense was in a word, great. The offense looked about the same, maybe worse. They fail to make adjustments at the plate. Hill threw about 60-70 curve balls tonight yet I think they are up there looking for fastballs. This is the 3rd time they have faced Hill this year so they should know how he plans to get them out.

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

Wayne, Sounds like I’m on the Dye bandwagon. But I just mean they should go get at least one guy who knows what it takes to win. But preferably it would be 2 proven veterans to my way of thinking. The cool thing about this blog is that I can express my humble opinions in a way that sounds like I know what I’m talking about!!!

Here’s a far fetched idea for you: Package Davies and some minor league talent to Chicago for Dye. They might bite if the minor leaguers are right. Then use Salty to get some starting pitching. Then ask Bernie Williams if he would like to come to Atlanta and learn to play first.

I told you it was far fetched. But it’s fun to mess with. I’m off to bed. L-O-N-G day tomorrow.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 1:56 AM | Link to this

David, I haven’t read it all, nor do I so intend, but Coach has a valid point … I’ve seen enough to know that JJMB has crossed the line of propriety, regardless of how loosely it might be defined or the extent to which he might claim justification.

Something must be wrong, for his current clothes and mask just don’t seem to fit … JJMB’s made some very fine contributions over an extended period of time … but, there can no valid excuses for his current behavior.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:01 AM | Link to this

Mr Baseball: If DOB posed question #1, I suspect that if Bobby was not comfortable with Salty at first, he might not directly say so, so as not to deflate the players ego. Sometimes it is wisdom to not say anything, and I think BC is wise in that regard. Just because we want to know, doesn’t necessarily mean Bobby wants to tell us.

I think that if we question Dave’s ability to “read” BC and know when not to ask questions he knows he is not going to get the answer to, we are doing Dave O’Brien a great disservice.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:11 AM | Link to this

Coach and Bob Don’t sweat the crap from JJMB. He’s probably just having a bad night. Something touched a nerve tonight. I posted the Shakespeare quote, not necessarily pointed toward anybody. Later on, I asked him if he was trying to suck up to Dave, and that’s when he went off.

Hey, we all have bad days, and I say forgive and forget….

Besides, he doesn’t seen to know beans about my faith anyway. I have heard far worse.

Drummerdad Dude, it is all good. I love to speculate myself. Personally, I keep hoping and praying that AJ and Bore-us both decide it is time for Andruw to rescind his no-trade clause to give him a better chance to pull it back together in another location. Personally, I love the guys defense, but I just can’t see keeping him at anything near what he wants to be paid. Whaddya think about that????? We could get a guy like Santana from the Angels for him and maybe throw in another prospect to get Figgins in the deal.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:16 AM | Link to this

Drummerdad: A thought just came to me. I can only think of two players I hoped the Braves would pick up in the past few years, that they ACTUALLY did pick up. AND, the killer is the two that I had hoped they would acquire were Redman and Wilson…….OUCH!! What does that say for my GM abilities????

What I am trying to say is that JS has almost always surprised the heck out of me with his moves. Most of them, I have thought were genius. I suspect that in the next 6 weeks or so, we will see more of his magic, and it probably won’t include Baldelli, Dye or Conine.

By serbok

June 8, 2007 2:17 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah

* It seems I have made the major mistake tonight of responding to a blog idiot. I ask my friends on the blog to please forgive my transgression.* Wayne I Applaud your comments to the idiot~ You certainly were in the right, difference between you and her is, She has to live with it 24/7! Idiotic rants Always make me laff! I’m sure! I’ve set myself up as the next target~LOL As I said it makes me laff:o)

By Ken Stallings

June 8, 2007 2:21 AM | Link to this

Much as it pains me to write this, I must disagree with your point about the Braves and college players. The Braves drafted Joey Devine in last year’s first round. Devine was from my alma mater, NC State, and was considered one of those “can’t miss” closer types.

Unfortunately, he has so far missed badly. And that pains me in two ways. First, we could really use an effective Joey Devine right now. Second, being from my school, I was truly hoping to see him do well.

There is a lot of stock in drafting high school pitchers vice college pitchers for many reasons.

First, extra years facing aluminum bats tends to harm pitcher development. Get them in the wooden bat game and teach them to pitch inside. Additionally, the aluminum bat tends to destroy control pitchers because with that bat, the holes in swings are much smaller and the control pitchers cannot exploit them.

Second, college pitchers tend to pitch a lot of innings, especially in the post season with the double elimination, round-robin formats, and MLB scouts cringe at the relatively poor quality of pitch count management and correction of mechanical flaws among college coaching staffs.

Third, drafting college position players is a better option, but the Braves have placed a premium on drafting pitchers.

Fourth, you cannot at all argue with the effectiveness of the Braves position players. The Braves have had an enviable record of drafting young high school position players and getting them to the majors early and with groomed talent.

By Ron

June 8, 2007 2:25 AM | Link to this

Oddjob, Dude we have never given Buddy Hernandez a fair chance, every year he has pitched great, but for some reason not good enough to pitch hear. It is pathedic!!! I always here he is too short, not strong enough, not so and so!!! Its always something, I think if given the opportunity he could win 15 games and post a .350 era in the NL!!! WayneinUtah, you watch the Spurs whip up on those Cavs? Great game, GO SPURS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:27 AM | Link to this

Serbok: Is JJMB a female blogger?? To be honest, I know nothing about this person, besides the fact that I was somehow able to really get under his/her skin tonight.

Chuckie sure looked good tonight!

By fastasballs

June 8, 2007 2:30 AM | Link to this

Is Kala Kaaihue in Myrtle Beach the top 1st base prospect in the organization? He is a right handed power bat, putting up good #’s. He’s only hitting in the .260’s, but not three weeks ago he was around .170.

The Pelicans come in here for a 3 game series in a week. I really want to see Andrus, Kaaihue & Schaeffer.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 2:33 AM | Link to this

Wayne, I appreciate your comments but while I don’t concur with the political correctness tabboo associated with the topic of religion, casting stones at an individual’s beliefs is despicable; whether the abuse be based in knowledge or ignorance.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:34 AM | Link to this

Ken S: Have you been tracking Joey D’s progress in Mississippi??? I think he is going to come back and be a real keeper for us. The Braves probably just brought him along a little quick, and he did have some injury issues.

He is a strikeout machine in Double A this year. I expect to see him later this summer.

To be honest, if Devine and some others, like Blaine Boyer, Will Startup, Tanyon Sturtz and Phil Stockman come around, we might be able to parlay some relievers into a decent trade package for a starter or a 1b/lf rightie.

I can see Oscar, Paronto and Yates being possible trade pieces at some point.

By serbok

June 8, 2007 2:35 AM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah I really dont know Wayne~ I kinda figured may be a female as seems not to understand “locker room” mentality? I do agree with you tho~ JJMB has posted well in the past. Better I would say than quite a few of my “ahem” posts, that may or may not have been chemically altered? lol

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:38 AM | Link to this

Ron: Didn’t catch the game, as I was spending some time with my son. Congrats. I love Duncan’s game, but he complains too much to the refs for my money.

By serbok

June 8, 2007 2:43 AM | Link to this

Guess I should clarify myself~ as a general rule~ “what goes on in the locker room” stays in the locker room? I’m sure DOB knows what is feasible to report and what not to report? Least I hope so? As far as asking stupid questions to an individual, that plays a very important role in the performance of ones Job duties, isn’t very smart.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:45 AM | Link to this

Bob: You are correct, but hey, I have heard it all. You know, sticks and stones……

I guess I am in good company as some have recently thrown a few jabs at M. Romney also…..

Funny thing is, I will probably vote for someone else……but my vote for sure won’t be based on the politician’s faith.

:-)

By CharlotteBraveFan

June 8, 2007 2:48 AM | Link to this

A new saying that Braves Fans can live by: Smoltz, Maybe Hudson and then we have Nothing!!!

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:56 AM | Link to this

Charlotte Fan: Didn’t you see Chuckie tonight. He was very good. Also, I am not ready to give up hope on Davies OR Hudson yet. I still like our pitching potential better (entire staff) than the Mets. Whaddya want to be that Cormier puts in a decent performance tonight too???

If only we could work some magic with Chippers hands/thumbs.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 3:00 AM | Link to this

Serbok: Dude, you are a late owl. Are you making a play for my closers role here on the blog? Well, tonight you can have it. It is 1am here in Pocatello Idaho, and I am toast.

Close er out, my man.

By Coach

June 8, 2007 3:02 AM | Link to this

Thanks Wayne , he was way over the line. I do have a suggestion for O’Brien. Maybe a question to ask Cox is if he is going to take 13 pitchers into an American league park against the Twinkies(Twins) and if Diaz will DH while Salty stays on the bench backing McCann up.

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 3:18 AM | Link to this

Coach: Yeah, yeah, I know, I promised I was going to bed. But, I couldn’t resist to check out the stats of our minor leaguers. That first baseman in Myrtle Beach is on freakin fire for the past ten days at least. Average is up around 265, after spending some quality time around the Mendoza line earlier. Wonder when he will be promoted to Mississippi?????

Actually, earlier tonight, Dave stated that Bobby told him flat out that they were going to add a positional player, and I think he meant after Friday nights’ game. I suspect they want to see what Cormier will do, and also they are cautious because of Smoltz tenative shoulder.

Now, I will say it for good, GOOD NIGHT all……

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 3:24 AM | Link to this

Coach: A last thought. If McCann needed to be DL’d, I would love to see us bring up Pena AND Brandon Jones, while sending down Paronto to let him work out his issues.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 3:39 AM | Link to this

Just as lawyers should be careful when asking questions to which they know not the answers, visitors should realize that they are there at the pleasure of their hosts.

However, regarding responsible reporting, I would imagine that there are more George Pattons and John Rockers than we might think.

Were I to own or manage the team, you can jolly well bet that the team psychologist would be the best money could buy and be given a fultime, topmost level advisory position … with daily player/management contact and involvment … were that truly to be the case, I believe management’s ability to recognize and cope with emerging problems would be greatly enhanced … and individual player would surely improve.

That is to say, I don’t believe that to currently be the case … though it may well nominally so be!

We’ve had some unexpected misfortune … but, the talent’s there … the trick is to exploit that talent!

By P-Town Brave

June 8, 2007 3:44 AM | Link to this

Well…just heard 4 newer stories from Jayson Stark of ESPN…

Apparently, the Braves at some point have discussed Griffey Jr. as a possibility, but who knows what they may be asking…my guess would be some form of Harrison, Reyes, and an IF

Also, it has been said that if Andruw were willing to waive his no-trade clause, we could strike a deal right now w/ the White Sox straight up for Jermaine Dye, and then the Sox may even feel generous and pitching throw-in (Wouldn’t Garland be nice)

Story #3 says we were at Percival’s workout so nothing new to report there since everyone pretty much already knew that.

BUT #4 took me by surprise…Talking to Texas about not only Teixiera, BUT also Eric Gagne… Only 1 slip-up…they as many other teams want Salty…and we’re not willing to push that envelope…especially w/ what is happening or shall I say “isn’t” at 1b.

By Coach

June 8, 2007 4:01 AM | Link to this

The trade rumors are in full swing and you just know JS has the phone close. Adam Dunn , 1B ? a half-season rental , intriguing but the Braves would have to pay him about five million for the rest of the 2007 season. Griffy jr. has always considered the Braves the one team he would agree to be traded to but his contract is a big problem considering the financial constraints that the Braves are operating under. According to Jason Stark , clubs that have asked about Jarrod Saltalamacchia have been turned down flat by John Schuerholz. So , any trade speculation here in the blogs is badly misinformed. the Braves are waiting to see whether or not Scott Thorman will work out at 1B before considering Salty as anything other than a backup catcher or possible option at 1B.

By Braves Fan 79

June 8, 2007 4:14 AM | Link to this

fastasballs: i watched some of the replay of last nights game….and theres gonna be games like that during the season that we loose because we faced a hot pitcher. At least cox put the best available lineup out there!

Wed’s game was just sad and was ANOTHER game pretty much given away that we coulda won. I mean orr and woodward in the lineup at the same time?? Maybe Bobby thinks its spring training and were using a split quad?
Wayne in Utah: man i live and die with my team and always love to feel like scherultz and cox are going to make the right decision…but we let our best pitchitter,not to mention leader,(Franco) sign with our rivals, and then dont take advantage of having a chance to resign Glavine. I guarntee if we had Glavine on our staff and took away the mets best pitcher…..wed be the ones in first place…by 3 or 4 games at least! Id rather see salty play first than woodward. In fact id rather see anyone on the Braves play out of position than have woodward on the field. And id rather see half our pitchers bat than send woodward in to pitchit. When Bobby pitchit Woodward for Hudson the other day i was p**…WHY BOBBY WHY! Both Davies and Hudson are better hitters than woodward and orr. And i only like orr cause hes been here a few years. Man i pray to God that when chipper comes back we dump woodwards sorry butt! Its hard to believe some pple on here actually believe we dont have better options than woodward……id rather have someone from rookie league than that ex met piece of trash! Ask the mets whos gotten the better of the ex players……..great tradeoff scherultz…we get hampton and woodward…and basicially give them Glavine and Franco. Ask any mets fan who got the best of that deal! FCK U AOL/TIME WARNER….u pieces of cheep corporate s**!

By Double Deuce

June 8, 2007 4:22 AM | Link to this

N8 You are easily the most negative dude(or dudette?) on this blog. The first question that comes to mind is if you even watch the gameor do you just respond to the blogging? How could you even make a comment about Chuck James not pitching into the 8th inning tonite. Do you watch baseball? James was as good tonite as he has been all year, and if he continues to pitch this way will be a huge boost to the Braves rotation. That’s a given. Don’t know where your comments come from except maybe ignorance. Then to bag on Tyler Yates after all he’s done out of the bullpen this year is the topper. In case you hadn’t noticed, Tyler hasn’t pitched much in the last week. That’s because he was third in the league in appearances and for a power pitcher to make so many appearances in a short period of time is unusual. I’m sure Bobby gave him a rest. Last night he came in and walked the first guy, Thor lost a popup in the sun, then he strikes out Uggla with a 97mph fastball, then gets Aaron Boone to strike out with the bases loaded on a 90 mph slider. But all you can come up with is that you were “close” when De Rosa lined to right tonite. This just in, sometimes major league hitters hit the ball hard. You are one of these guys who blogs, can research stats, but don’t have a clue about the nature of the guys who play the game. They have heart, which is something that your pantyass pathetic blogging can’t conceive. Move to San Francisco where you will be one of the boyth.

By porksword

June 8, 2007 4:33 AM | Link to this

Put Andruw on the block now.

By Braves Fan 79

June 8, 2007 4:34 AM | Link to this

Im watching the replay of the Spurs/Cavs game. I hope the spurs sweep the overhyped lebron led team. While i think lebron is a good player….id take Mcgrady, Ray Allen, Kobe, Arenas or Wade over lebron anyday!! Start of 4th quarter and the cavs havent even scored 50 points yet! yeah Lebron is the next Jordan huh!? NOT! Thank God this Riddick Bowe / Holyfield fight is on espn2. Holyfields tha man…what heart! They need to replay that 1st Holyfield/Tyson fight when Holyfield knocked him silly!

By Berigan

June 8, 2007 6:42 AM | Link to this

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:34 AM | Link to this Ken S: Have you been tracking Joey D’s progress in Mississippi??? I think he is going to come back and be a real keeper for us. The Braves probably just brought him along a little quick, and he did have some injury issues.He is a strikeout machine in Double A this year. I expect to see him later this summer.To be honest, if Devine and some others, like Blaine Boyer, Will Startup, Tanyon Sturtz and Phil Stockman come around, we might be able to parlay some relievers into a decent trade package for a starter or a 1b/lf rightie.

Wayne in Utah, you make an excellent point(And sorry for whatever crapola you had to put up with earlier, it looks like it has since been removed!) Just about everyone is looking for pitching,(except perhaps Oakland and the Angels)and we do seem to have some relievers doing quite well in the minors.

Blaine Boyer looked to be throwing about 95 the other night. Joey Divine as you mentioned is doing quite well. Now, what do we trade for? We need starting pitching, but who can we get? Oakland is going to ask a lot if they give up a starter, they might want offense more than relievers.

Chicago needs bullpen help BUT they need offense as well, so I can’t see them trading Dye for relief help! Still doesn’t seem like the right match. Hmmm, just need to find a 3rd team….

By Bravo Nam

June 8, 2007 6:45 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist

Appreciate the bravo.

A Positive amongst the Negativity

The negativity on this blog has been like an insidious cancer over the past week. Something to be proud of regarding these Braves- is there a team that is as committed to developing local talent as the Braves- just check out today’s draft as another example of their commitment to building a team that is truly from the south, in particular, this state.

DOB

Given Griffey’s obvious desire to play in Atlanta, what do you think the Braves interest would be in trading for Griffey at the END of the season if they don’t resign Jones?

By Berigan

June 8, 2007 6:47 AM | Link to this

Will Bobby Bench Edgar, Andruw, and Frenchy the next time the Braves face a tough righty like Peavy??????????

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 7:20 AM | Link to this

N8

You said…

*Ron Roberts… Regarding Odalis Perez, you said: ”He’s only pitched one game where he’s given up more than 4 ER.” When I read that, I was thinking, hmmm… Not a bad thought. I hadn’t heard much about Odalis this year, so I checked his numbers out. He’s 3-5, in 12 starts, with an ERA of 5.74, in 64.1 IP. (5.1 IP per start). While your statement above is correct (in that ONE start he allowed 6 ER), you fail to state the other side of it. He has allowed LESS than 4 ER in his starts only 5 of the 12 starts. He’s essentially a lefthanded version of Kyle Davies. Yeah, THAT’S what we need. Man ALIVE! Having Redman on this team for a month and a half, has sure lowered our standards of what would be considered an improvement to our rotation. YIKES.

N8… Odalis Perez isn’t a slam-shut pitcher, but he’s certainly an upgrade frm Kyle Davies. Look at Odalis’ stats again, and note this…

He’s allowed four earned runs or less in ALL of his starts, with one exception. That exception, he allowed six. Kyle Davies meanwhile has done so twice, so far, this season. Kyle also hasn’t pitched more than 5.1 in five of those twelve starts.

Odalis Perez performances (4 ER or less in all but one start) on this team would give the Braves’ offense, most times, a fighting chance to win in all but one of those games. That’s where I was going with the notion.

By Joe Fan

June 8, 2007 7:29 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Braves have taken more college players than High Schoolers so far, think that signals to a change?

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 7:29 AM | Link to this

Bravo Nam…

DOB answered the Griffey queries earlier in the blog, bub. Scroll up.

Bottom line: Braves have no interest (or room for) Griffey.

This team’s priority (like many other contenders) would need to be starting pitching.

By Berigan

June 8, 2007 7:39 AM | Link to this

Bravo Nam, you are right, we are going a bit overboard with the negativity of late, and I for one will be negative no more, because that’s the kind of guy I am …… this week. ;) (Stolen from the Great Homer J. Simpson)

Seriously, as bad as we have looked of late, the Mets are just as bad! They were swept at home by the Phillies! The Mets had back, to back, to back home runs for the first time since 1989 last night, and still lost! Pat Burrell of all folks hit a homer off of Wagner. You just know the Met fans are bitter about this. They also missing Shawn Green and Alou, and now the back-up right fielder Chavez is out with a bad hammy. So, we are still only 3 1/2 games back with 100 games to go…time to take off already!!!

By Willy Wally

June 8, 2007 7:45 AM | Link to this

Sorry, Wayne, could not close down the blog last night. Braveheart and Willy Wally are on self imposed banishments for the rest of the month from the blog for conduct they deemed detrimental to the blog. Perhaps, idiots like JJMB and “David Justice” need to follow the example. But there we go again, calling someone an idiot, even if well deserved. Hence, the self imposed banishment. (Also, gotta lot work to do the rest of the month. Gotta somehow justify that 2007/2008 fiscal year budget I want for my office, ya know. Nothing is ever quite so altruistic as people make it sound. Unfortunately, money is always a factor, ain’t it?).

By jed

June 8, 2007 7:56 AM | Link to this

should we be concerned about smoltz’s shoulder?

By TheCutMan

June 8, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

I, for one, was very much in agreement with what Bradley had to say about the Braves in his recent column. He seems more the journalist, willing to put his observations and thoughts out there and more realistic than the ‘houseman’ comments of DOB who seems more intent on protecting his sources within the Braves than telling it like it is.

That said, the Braves appear to be a team in need of a new direction and, yes, leadership. How accountable are the players for making mental errors or bad plays? For example, why wasn’t Francoeur wearing sun glasses in RF when the sun was still a factor for that missed fly ball in the first inning of yesterday’s game?

Examples of “Easy Rider Bobby Cox” abound of late and it’s beginning to stack up with losses. Oh yeah, another starting pitcher from SOMEWHERE would not be a bad thing either, even if he’s untested at the MLB level from AA ball.

By 22oz

June 8, 2007 8:42 AM | Link to this

Gotta love this quote from Bobby regarding the recent skid: “I didn’t know we had lost that many.” Don’t expect that fire and brimstone pep talk just yet boys.

By skeezix

June 8, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

First and foremost the Braves need another solid starting pitcher. Then there’s this offense… they need to quit helping the opposing pitchers by pressing/overswinging. Bobby needs to put Salty at first and Andruw hitting seventh or eighth in the line up and leave him there. And, man do we need Chipper back!

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

You guys can rag on Bobby Cox and his laid-back style all you want, but I think (and MLB players polled agree, by the way) that’s what makes him successful.

With a 162-game schedule, it’s important to not dwell on a series, a week, a month, but the game that day. You can use the individual performances of your players to determine if and how you use them, but going through a malaise as the Braves have shouldn’t stick in the mind of Bobby or the players. Why, you ask?

Well, we’re the numbers-crunchers, and it matters more to us that they’re struggling at home, because by and large, Turner Field’s where we get to see ‘em the most. They, on the other hand, have to account for the games they play in all the venues, and while they’ve looked awful at home the last two homestands, they split them with a 4-2 roadtrip against probably the NL Central’s best-two teams. So while they’er 3-8 in their last 11 at home, they might be more inclined to not worry because they’re 7-10 in that entire stretch - which I’m not saying is lights-out baseball, but it’s not exactly a tailspin a la June 2006, either.

Folks, we’ve been playing without arguably our best overall hitter in the lineup. We’ve been playing with our 1B and our CF and RF (the latter two being bats we depend on even with Chipper in the lineup) in slumps. Chalk it up to the lineup suffering without Chipper in the lineup to protect those around him if you want, or chalk it up to bad timing. That’s just how the game goes, kids.

This team will be fine once Chipper’s hands heal properly. And when he returns and this team gets back on track, the players won’t be pressing, worried their manager will go off on some fire and brimstone tirade if they don’t.

That, my fellow bloggers, is why Bobby Cox has been as successful as he has been, and why more MLB players would like to play for him than any other manager in the game.

By Josh GT

June 8, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

CutMan,

Are you saying that Bobby should be responsible for making sure that players remember to wear their sun glasses. Your post is absurd. People forget how hard it is to win in this game. Why don’t you go pull for the Cubs—a team that hasn’t won anything in 100 years?

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

I see the Mets took pitchers with their first 6 draft picks.

While the Braves certainly do a GREAT job overall when it comes to drafting, scouting, and player development; they haven’t produced in all-start pitchers for quite some time…

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 9:08 AM | Link to this

Again…Saltalamacchia needs to LEARN to play 1B in the minor leagues before anybody puts him there to play in an MLB game.

Seriously, folks…if you think putting Jarrod Saltalamacchia in the everyday lineup is the answer to stopping the Braves’ current struggles, you’re expecting way too much of him, and no offense to the guy, you’ll be let-down. He’s played in a grand total of 11 games in the starting lineup, and in his one appearance at 1B (in a blowout), he committed and error right away.

I just don’t think Bobby Cox throws a guy out there in the starting lineup playing a position he’s never played even in the minor leagues. After some time honing his craft in the minors, maybe. The major leagues is not the place to learn to play a position.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this

Ron,

Takes a big man to call someone an idiot behind a keyboard. When Salty is traded for a top pitching prospect and another player or two, we’ll see who is the idiot.

We can have an intelligent discussion or you can call me an idiot. I’ll let you decide, since you seem so eager to do the later.

But, anyway…

Ron and TennPaul,

The point is Schuerholz is not afraid to trade a top prospect if there isn’t a spot for him. And like I said, this situation is very unique and one Schuerholz hasn’t faced before. He’s never had a top prospect that doesn’t have a position that because of payroll concerns he really can’t trade for an established star or a couple of solid, established players.

Yes, prospects are prospects but that doesn’t mean they can’t play baseball. And, like I said, Salty’s a prospect, too. I don’t think other teams will see him as less desirable because “he’s only a prospect.”

Personally, I think this is one of Schuerholz’s weaknesses—trusting his own farm system but not anyone else’s. But, then again, he’s never had to and it’s always worked. But with the recent payroll issues, he may have to adjust.

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this

Wow, the scouting reports on Jon Gilmore aren’t very good…but I trust ol’ Roy and the gang…wonder what they saw that most others didn’t?

By Drummerdad

June 8, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

I think we’ll know the Braves offense has turned around if they face Rich Hill and Oliver Perez again this season and handle both of them convincingly. Hill reminds me a bit of Orel Hershhiser. I don’t like Perez. Can’t stand that litte Romper Room hop and skip he does over the base path line when he leaves the field. Something about it just doesn’t look like a pro to me. He’s got our number, but I can’t dig it.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts,

Also, something I brought up yesterday, the Braves have yet to lose more than 3 in a row (granted, they’ve done that twice and there’s a possibility for it to happen tonight).

Yes, they’ve lost series, and Cox’s philosophy seems to be to win series, but avoiding long losing streaks is probably the next-best thing. And they have done that this season so far, even with the inconsistency in the back-end of the rotation, injuries and slumps.

I’m not trying to be an optimist, but if someone told us before the season that through mid June Chipper will be out for a significant time, Smoltz will have some nagging injuries, Davies’s ERA will be over 5.00, Redman will not make it through 6 games, McCann will be struggling, Andruw will be having his worst season, Thorman will be hitting aweful but the Braves would still be fairly comfortably over .500, only 3-1/2 games ahead of the Mets and right in the thick of the wild card race, I think we would have been satisfied. Maybe we wouldn’t have ecstatic, but we’d like out chances from here on out.

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

True, Shaun; I understand the hand-wringing, though.

But odds are that Andruw will catch fire soon (last night is another night he’s teasing us to believe this could his time). He’s done it every year, and this might be taht time for this season.

Odds are Francoeur’s prolonged slump will end soon (he doesn’t tend to struggle for L-O-N-G stretches, best as I can rcall.

Odds are that Chipper, when he returns, won’t struggle. He rarely comes back frm his DL stints struggling.

Get those three on track and get Hudson back to where he was at season’s start, and we’re fine. I’d still like to see us address the Kyle Davies situation, though, with a more consistent veteran, but hell, every team out there’s looking for that.

And I’ll withhold my opinion of Lance Cormier’s return until after tonight. But I think he’ll be fine.

By Coach

June 8, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Yea , Shaun your an idiot. Read my 4:01 a.m. post and you will understand why.

By Bill

June 8, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

I like the idea of trading for Griffey. I know that he’s prone to injury. I don’t think they would have to give up to much. Plug him in LF and let Andrew walk after this season. He would like playing in Atlanta. This way the Braves would not be tied to long term contracts. They can find someone cheap to play CF next season. Schuerholz is a fool if he trades Salty. That type of player doesn’t come around often. Slowley work him in at 1B. Trade Thorman for a minor prospect. If the Braves had more offense, I think they can weather the storm with this pitching staff.

By Renegator

June 8, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

June Swoon Part II ?

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Coach,

That post still doesn’t consider the fact the Braves could trade him in the offseason.

Yes, odds are the Braves won’t trade him right now or before the season ends (unless a pitching super-stud becomes available for some reason) but I think it’s very likely he’ll be traded in the offseason for a top pitching prospect and possibly someone to fill Andruw’s spot (either a CF or RF).

By Raleigh Dog

June 8, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

What’s up with all the broken bats lately? Seem to be a ton of them.

By Renegator

June 8, 2007 10:24 AM | Link to this

It looks as if the Braves lack of offense is just as big of a problem as lack of pitching. It sucks when Chuck James has a great game and the offense only gets 3 stinking hits - 3!

This offense needs just as much help as the pitching.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Isn’t it hard to believe the Braves drafted a local black player instead of a white guy? Where’s the organizational racism that we’re used to? Have they wised up or could it be they actually took the best player available (possibly the best high school hitter in the draft)? Where is the “there’s plenty of good black players but the Braves don’t take them” crowd now?

By Lee

June 8, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

Since I am not convinced any one trade is going to make that much of a difference with this team perhaps no trade should be made involving this team at all this season….….ride the season out and handle the good along with the bad and see what the outcome is. It will give an opportunity for the Braves to evaluate some of these players more. There are question marks on offense and pitching at the present time. This team alone needs to come together.

By eric the elder

June 8, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

Double Deuce, I’ve always enjoyed your posts because you have good insights. Your 4:22 was no exception.

However, if you will permit a candid opinion, I thought your last two sentences were beneath you. Not at all in keeping with your usual civility, restraint, and respect.

By 22oz

June 8, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Shaun I heard that the Braves wanted Jesse Jackson to announce their first pick instead of Bud Selig, but he wasn’t available.

By Jersey Gil

June 8, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Like Mr.Berra say..”baseball is a funny Game” baseball come in a square Box and is round. Folks the Braves are really lucky to be in Second at 3/1/2 games. But is you are looking the Stats:there are in 1st in Hits in the league with 563 and Third in Avg 265 fouth in Slg% 428 third in Rbi 272 and eight on ERA 4.17…so go a figure that out. I thinks the Braves come to be in to the end with the Phillis and Mets for the Division and the Wild card come from the West team.

By Lee

June 8, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Where is the “there’s plenty of good black players but the Braves don’t take them” crowd now?

On basketball blogs - there is a NBA champioship going on at present time.

By fastasballs

June 8, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Would it be better for next year’s team if this year’s team fell out of race by the the end of the month? No I don’t want this to happen, just a hypothetical.

The main reason I ask it may allow the possibility of Andruw waiving his no trade claus thus allowing the Braves to get quite a bit in return for him that they otherwise would not. Boras would centainly want him on a winning team & the playoffs to “showcase him”.

Also with the complete lack of pitching around baseball would a contending team overpay for someone like Davies, James, maybe even Yates & Wickman? Would be dare trade Renteria?

JS could stack this team for next season & beyond if this scenario played out.

Salty would be all but guaranteed to making it until the off season to be traded where his value should be it’s highest. That is if he is traded, which I believe he will bring a frontline young starter at the least if he is.

A few trades would make room for a Reyes, Smith, or Harrison later in the year. I’m sure the plan is to have one of these guys in Atlanta next season.

Am I nuts or what?

By L. M. Hull

June 8, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

If they could throw a net over this blog, Planters would have enough nuts to last them for years

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Okay, I already don’t like this Heyward guy…he lives 30 minutes from Turner field and…

“While the Braves play in his backyard, Heyward has grown up as a Yankees fan. In fact, his favorite big leaguer is Derek Jeter.

“When I tell people that, they say he’s not left-handed or even an outfielder,” Heyward said. “But I just like the way that he plays and he’s such a great leader. Plus, he plays for my favorite team.”

That’s it…don’t like him (:

Man, I hope we can finally hit a lefty tonight. We need a win. How about a 14-0 type game!

Regards,

Jason

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

He’s never had a top prospect that doesn’t have a position that because of payroll concerns he really can’t trade for an established star or a couple of solid, established players

I disagree with this statement as well. I disagree in that, I’m not sold on the idea that we are so tight with the payroll, that we couldn’t pull off some Renteria/Marte type deal again. And based on JS’s entire history of GMing, he has not traded prospects for prospects. If a trade of Salty is to happen, it will be for a major league impact player.

Personally, I think this is one of Schuerholz’s weaknesses—trusting his own farm system but not anyone else’s. But, then again, he’s never had to and it’s always worked. But with the recent payroll issues, he may have to adjust.
That just takes the cake. JS’s “weakness” is doing what has always worked? Sucks to be JS I guess. John, your weakness is creating a plan that works and sticking with it. You need to break that bad habit.

By 1957 Braves Fan

June 8, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

The pressure is on the pitcher to get the the hitter out. What would happen if the Braves’ hitters waited for the opposing pitcher to make a mistake?

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

From an article on braves.mlb.com:

“McCann, who rolled his left ankle Tuesday against Florida, was in the lineup at catcher on Thursday after getting a rest on Wednesday.

Saltalamacchia is the better defensive option, and he said his performance Thursday is already behind him.”

I don’t want to start the whole who is better defensively debate, but I thought it was interesting that others feel the same as some of the bloggers here. I don’t think people are crazy for thinking Salty is better defensively.

Now, don’t go crazy. While I do think Salty is better defensively, I have never said he should replace McCann and do not think he should. How can you replace a 23 year old all-star and silver slugging catcher? My only point is that saying Salty is better defensively isn’t as preposterous as some on here have made it out to be.

Regards,

Jason

By Efrim

June 8, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

JasoninMaine

I think this team will need 14 runs tonight. Big Lance is on the mound.

By N8

June 8, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Double Deuce

Did you ever once think that the reason that Yates is one of the “most overworked” relievers in the NL, is because Chuck, Davies, Redman, and now Cormier, have failed MOST OF THE TIME to get past 6 innings.

Chuck has been very good this year, in fact consistantly good. But it isn’t a big secret that he’s had a tough time getting into and beyond the 7th inning. As it stands, he’s a very good to great 4th or 5th starter, IMO. Until he consistantly get’s into the 7th and 8th inning, (with similar results), he’s not going to be a #2 or #3 starter.

That’s fine, just so long as Bobby has him in the 4th or 5th role.

Why was it neccesary to take Chuck out last night? He wasn’t pinch hit for. He was pitching fantastic. I can only venture a guess that he told Bobby he was done after the 7th inning. Hmmmm. I’m of the belief that the more pitchers you use in a game, the bigger the chance that one of them is gonna have a bad night. Now of course there is a fine line between that and leaving the starter in too long. But Chuck didn’t sound (I was listening on MLB.radio), tired or ineffective, based on Pete and Skip’s comments. They kept using words like, “settled in” and “breezes through the inning”.

As for your SF comment. Whatever. You’ve just testified with that comment that you are either (a)12, (b)gay, or (c) a frickin’ idiot. I’m gonna go with (d) ALL OF THE ABOVE.

Thanx for playing.

Ron Roberts

OK. If you think Odalis Perez is an upgrade over Davies, more power to ya.

I always like Odalis before, but I thought Leo tried to turn him into Glavine/Neagle with the nibbling on the corner. He had lights out stuff when he first came up, and they tried to get him to buy into the “85-90 percent velocity with location” theory, which he didn’t buy into, thus he was shipped off. Of course then he proceeded to go 15-10 in 32 starts with a 3.00 ERA in his first year with the Dodgers. Yet Leo gets all the credit for our pitching success in the past and McDowell is a “bum”.

IMO, Leo ruined as many young careers, that he saved with washed up veterans. Thank God Smoltz didn’t buy into the “away, away, low and away” theory.

By eric the elder

June 8, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Lee, in my plodding way, I’ve tried for several weeks to say what you said at 10:30. You said it better.

I don’t know that it is a uniquely American trait, but we do tend to seek the quick fix, instant gratification. Get Chipper back, Salty at first, trade for Dye - - these are all overly optimistic, over-dependencies on the contributions of individuals. The most successful teams (not necessarily the best teams) get sometimes surprisingly billowing performances from all 25 guys.

Nurseries are busiest when all the flowers are in bloom, which is the worst time to plant them. The secret to a good garden is to find the best stock, remove the weeds, and be patient.

By brent a.

June 8, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

Curiosity Question:

In the 8th inning last night, trailing by a run, why did Bobby send up Salty first (to pinch hit for Thorman), and then Woodward next (to pinch-hit for the pitcher)?

I ask for 2 reasons:

1) With Salty being more of a power threat, doesn’t it make more sense to try and get Woody on first, thus giving Salty a chance to put us in the lead with a homer?

2) (Less important) Since Woodward was replacing Thorman, wouldn’t it just be a bit easier to let him bat for Thorman in the 8th spot, instead of double-switching him, having him bat 9th, and thus putting the Braves in a position where the pitcher’s spot would come up more quickly (8th spot), if we were able to rally.

Thanks!

brent a.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

I’m not saying JS needs to change. I’m just saying, it’s possible that maybe the Braves could have been even better if Schuerholz had been willing to maybe trade a prospect for a prospect or even a veteran for a prospect in certain cases.

But, like I said, the Braves didn’t need to do this to contend every season.

I think because you disagree with my post, you refuse to read them with an open mind. You look for ways to nitpick them.

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

I actually think Lance is going to pitch a pretty good game tonight. If we score 4, we will win!

Regards,

Jason

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, agree with you on Salty. Can’t quite understand why so many folks believe that he can easily handle first base, having played the position for one defensive inning in his entire minor- and major-league career, and handled neither of the two balls hit to him cleanly in that inning.

It’s simply not the easy position to learn that people here would have you believe, people who’ve never played it and never talked to anyone who’s played it at a high level.

And I also agree that some people are expecting entirely too much so soon from this 22-year-old kid, as immensely talented as I believe he is. You can’t base ANYTHING on a guy’s first couple of weeks in the majors, when teams have no idea whatsoever what he’s about, when most advance scouts haven’t even seen him play more than an at-bat or two, when teams don’t have much of a clue how to get him out, etc.

That said, Ron, what are you talking about with Francoeur, when you say you believe he’ll soon come out of his “prolonged slump”? I mean, what slump? He’s not killing the ball, especially at home, but is this a slump:

Francoeur is 13-for-40 (.325) with four doubles, six RBIs and a .372 OBP in his past 10 games, and he’s 23-for-80 (.288) with seven doubles, one homer and 13 RBIs in his past 20 games.

I know the homers are down, but that’s just not a slump, either recent or prolonged.

By N8

June 8, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

JasonInMaine

Totally agree with you. Very well said. Especially with McCann’s nagging injuries.

It’s similar to saying right now Escobar is a better option than Chipper.

That doesn’t mean that Esobar is “better” than Chipper. It means that Chipper is unable to do the things that he is used to doing (and we are used to him doing), thus playing a healthy athletic Escobar is the better option.

If McCann is having trouble “playing” (all areas of playing), due to naggining injuries, wouldn’t it be wise to play the guy who is healthy, and seeminly has some ability to “come close” to what McCann normally does, since OBVIOUSLY McCann isn’t coming close to doing what he normally does.

Or do we just let McCann “tough it out” and never really recover from any of his nagging injuries?

These are the tough decisions that Bobby is paid to make, yet he seemingly is letting the players make them for him.

On the other hand, I seem to recall Chipper ragging on JD Drew about taking time off with nagging injuries when his team “needed him”, and that he should try to play through them.

So, which way do you go? IMO, McCann should sit and get healthy so he can be the impact player he’s capable of being. Otherwise this arguement is gonna go on ALL YEAR. In the JD Drew situation, we didn’t have anybody capable of “replacing” him for a short time while he got healthy. We needed him in the lineup. With McCann, I believe Salty is more than capable of replacing what McCann has been doing for the last month.

Is he capable of replacing McCann’s 2006 performance? More than likely not. But how do we know?

By Jersey Gil

June 8, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Sorry guys i love stats…In my blog before i give some stat for the 61 games, now i will give some very interesting stat for the last 7games: 255 Avg were are 9th in the league but ahead from the Phil and Mets Run scoring 27 10 in the league but again ahead of the Mets Slg 383 we are 11 but again ahead of the Phil/mets anf finally in HR 6 again ahead of the Mets. So for those people that think about the Braves is in deep trouble in the offense…think again. The Stats don’t lie.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

N8: With ya on Odalis. The guy sucks. He has no upside. He’s got a bad attitude and a massive contract. Davies is 23, inconsistant (yet lower ERA) and costs very little money. Odalis would be a cancer on this team…. again.
Age Player W L ERA IP K BB HR
30 Perez 3 6 5.68 69.2 37 22 8
23 Davies 3 4 5.31 62.2 40 29 10
I’m not seeing the upside in getting a slightly worse lefty with a bad attitude, an extensive injury history, and a big contract on the verge of free agency.

By Doctor Ubuto

June 8, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 2:56 AM | Link to this

” … If only we could work some magic with Chippers hands/thumbs.”

AnWhere were you bloggers last night with the envelope containing cash and tickets? You can have the thumb salve that will restore your third baseman when I get my money. Tonight, it will be the Phil Niekro statue. Place the envelope in Niekro’s open glove. When I have the money you can pick up the salve at will-call. Ask for “the jar”.

By Renegator

June 8, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

JasoninMaine: If we score 4, we will win!

Good one - like we will score 4 runs. Have you seen this offense lately?

By Lew

June 8, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

Is everyone still alive this morning? No new suicides? Nathan-Dude, you really need to get a grip before you stroke out. Go and take the family fishing or maybe to the movies or something after you take your anti-psychotics and avoid baseball for a couple of weeks. If you don’t relax you’ll leave your children fatherless when your brain explodes. Seriously-Calm down. The world still turns on it’s axis and we’re still only 3 1/2 games back. What part of Chuckie’s 3.66 ERA and three consecutive quality starts upsets you? Do you seriously think anyone else with similar numbers is available to us? Cutman-Yes, you’re absolutely correct. David O’Brien should definitely put his job in jeopardy and tell BC what a total d!ckhead he is. That’s exactly the kind of move certain to provide job security. Of course, seeing as you’re likely on welfare, you don’t need to concern yourself with things like doing your job to the best of your ability while dealing with any particular constraints, but what the hell? Right?

By eric the elder

June 8, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

N8, excellent analysis, and Jason, too.

The problem is knowing what we don’t know. Are McCann’s problems really injury related, or is he just having his first true sophomore slump? Only McCann can know for sure, and maybe even he doesn’t.

On a related matter, I recall the Hudson game in which BMac allowed a pitch to get through and what looked like the winning run came in. The cameras showed Chipper talking to the despondent McCann, and it appeared that Chipper was getting on him for hanging his head. McCann’s next AB was the one in which he cleared the bases with a double, and we won the game.

There might be something to Bob, Journalist’s “neck-up” theory.

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Hey “Cutman,” Mark Bradley is a columnist, a very good columnist, who is paid to write nothing but his opinions on various subjects. That’s why he’s called a “columnist.” He writes opinion pieces, columns. He comes out once or twice a homestand and writes about big topics, good or bad, regarding the team.

I’m a beat reporter, who is paid to cover the team on a day-to-day basis, home and road, about 135 of 162 games a year, plus 6-1/2 weeks of spring training, the playoffs, and postseason moves.

As a beat reporter, if you plan to do the job more than a year or two, you do not make knee-jerk responses and insult players and rip them to shreds and question the manager’s every move like some anonymous bloggers, whose moods and opinions change by the game, sometimes by the inning.

If you are to have a working relationship with the players and manager, you offer fair criticism, you point out slumps and costly mistakes, you don’t play favorites, you point out that Chipper Jones is injury-prone and that the team isn’t nearly as good when he’s hurt, which is often, but you also point out that Chipper Jones remains one of the best hitters in the majors when he’s in the lineup.

On the other hand, some anonymous bloggers — not all, or even most of them — would prefer to make it, Chipper Jones is always hurt, he stinks, and should be traded, regardless of whether he can realistically be traded. They don’t let facts stand in the way of inflammatory statements or knee-jerk reactions. That’s fine, but that’s not what a beat reporter is paid to do.

And if you think I’m a “houseman,” I only wish you could ask a few of the players who believe quite the contrary, or ask Bobby on the days when he’s in a pi**ed off mood because of something I wrote or someone else wrote, which has happened far more than you’d imagine in the past few years.

I wish you could talk to the player who won’t talk to our paper unless it’s a post-game interview because of something I wrote earlier this year.

Ask Andruw if I’m a “houseman.” I think he’d beg to differ. But you know what, I just wasted a few minutes trying to reason with someone who doesn’t have one inkling of what this job demands, someone just looking to agitate, someone frustrated by the Braves’ ongoing slide, who sits back and believes the beat writer should somehow get this team straightened out, and should take the manager to task for … well, for what exactly? For not playing Salty, a 22-year-old kid who’s got such a great track record of accomplishments above the A-ball level?

You and some others have no patience, have no clue about the development process of players. The Braves are trying to develop Salty while also trying to listen or gauge other teams’ interest and see whether they can fill a huge need by trading him. It’s not a simple matter, not something that you follow a manual to do. And they probably know how to do it better than you or I.

I could be wrong, but I really do believe Cox and management are trying to win, and have a hell of a lost more at stake in the matter than you do.

And I could be wrong, but I think I know a hell of a lot better than you do about how to do my own job over a long period, to get information and to express it to readers in a fair and accurate way while also not sucking up to certain players or to the organization, but also without cutting off my nose to spite my face, if that cliche works here.

Because you or some other bloggers are upset by another loss and believe that warrants me being an extension of you and walking into Bobby’s office demanding answers like this is some freedom-of-information-act situation, well, sorry, but that ain’t the case, my friend. And it’s not happening.

But thanks for reading.

And by the way, if you’d like to discuss your “houseman” insult personally, I’d be glad to. E-mail me at dobrien@ajc.com. I’d be more than happy to call you or give you my cell and you can call me, to have an actual one-on-one discussion about it without me debating with an anonymous person at a keyboard firing off insults to a blog.

With a name like “The CutMan,” you won’t mind doing that, right?

By Jimbo

June 8, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

If they resign Fathead Jones at a bargain price aren’t they still getting a dysfunctional hitter who is horrible in clutch situations? Let him go and spend his money on someone else who won’t disappount us every time in the clutch like Fathead does.

By journalistjimmysmtih

June 8, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

oh,thehumanity!ouch!

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Payne: Clever switch of the point from trading Salty for AA pitchers to improving on the past 15 years of winning by taking a different course of action.
So, JS’s strategy, plan, history of dealings is, use minor leaguers to fill voids in the club through calling them up, or trading them for major league parts. Not once in the last 17 years, that I can remember, or that anyone has shown, has JS traded a #1 prospect like Salty for AA prospects. Not even last season when Marte was traded for Renteria and the payroll was more rigid than it appears to be now. With that in mind, it is not a change in plan for JS to stop doing what has worked and do something he hasn’t ever done? Please open my mind a little more as to how that is not a change.

By Bigboi

June 8, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

in response to an earlier post, the only reason the braves took the black kid is because of the heat they got from the rainbow push and jessie jackson.

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Ken Stallings, regarding your post disagreeing (politely, I might add, which was nice) with my assertion that college players tend to make more of an impact, and sooner, than high schoolers: I said players. Not pitchers. You’re focused on pitchers.

I would agree with you on pitchers, for the most part. I’d prefer to take high schoolers, who haven’t been molded yet, who haven’t gotten scared of contact from aluminum bats and 10-run innings in college games, and who simply don’t have the additional wear and tear that college pitchers have.

But I said players. I meant position players.

By journalist/jimmy/smith

June 8, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

if/a/columnist/posts/on/this/blog,/ does/the/columnist’s/name/appear/in/ bold/blue/type/or/some/other/color?

can/all/journalist’s/have/bold/blue/ type/going/forward?

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Good point, TennPaul. Very well put. But again, you’re letting facts getting in the way of emotional rants. And you’re sounding like a houseman (wink).

By Jersey Gil

June 8, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

**I’m with you DOB…CUTman is an infiltrade from the Mets.

By eric the elder

June 8, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Wow, DOB, I hope that puts it to rest. You surely must know that the vast majority of us understand and agree with you.

A friend of mine says, “I know he’s just stupid, so why would I waste my time with him.” Not bad advice.

By Renegator

June 8, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Am I the only one who doesn’t even know what a “houseman” is?

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

DOB,

While that response was directed towards me, I certainly appreciate it. Hopefully, it will add a little perspective for some of the bloggers on here in regards to your relationship with the team, its players, and leadership structure. I don’t care what profession your in, you have to be tactful and show integrity. I have my hands full at my own job, so hopefully I will never be arrogant enough to tell someone else how to do their’s.

Regards,

Jason

By N8

June 8, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Lew - Thanks for the “advice” (wink)

But you apparently have never gone fishing in this neck of the woods. Because, quite honestly, it’s more frustrating than watching this team try and hit a lefty. LOL!

You act as though I’m standing up, pacing inbetween posts. Yelling at the kids, and freaking out at anybody who walks by the house.

Not the case my friend. Just calling it like I see it. With no real anger present. Maybe my use of ALL CAPS makes it appear like I’m always yelling. I’ll tell you what, there’s a better chance of Bobby having a stroke when an outside corner pitch doesn’t go his way, than me stroking over this team, and baseball in general.

I can tell you this. My biggest problem is not having the MLB package on cable, due to TBS not showing games. Because I tend to post considerably less when the games are actually on TV. But when you are forced to sit at your computer, (whether at home or office), listening on line, it’s WAY too easy to have the blog up and running.

As for Chucks 3 quality starts in a row. I LOVE IT! But the bottom line is this. He has been good all year, as far as ERA goes. But he has 71.1 IP in 13 starts (5.1 per start). That was “good enough” when we had the 3 headed monster in the bullpen. You know, the 3 guy with ERA’s under 3.00.

I know that Yates has been very good this year. But he does have an ERA of 3.58. Mike Gonzalez (the guy he’s essentially replaced), had an ERA of 1.59. Where I come from, that 2.00 ERA difference between is a big deal, when your starters can’t go past 6 IP.

Again, not ragging on Chuck. Just calling it like I see it.

Smoltz: 6.1 IP per start (and that’s including the start he took himself out of after 3.1 IP)

Hudson: 6 IP per start, from our #2

Chuck: 5.1 IP per start

Davies: 5.2 IP per start (and much less effective than James)

Redman: 4 IP per start

Cormier: He only lasted 4 IP in his only start.

Lerew: 3.2 IP per start, in his 3 starts.

Carlyle: 5.2 IP in his 2 starts

The grand total? In 61 games, our starters have pitched 354 Innings. (5.2 per start).

Simply put. WITHOUT Mike Gonzalez as part of this bullpen, that’s not good enough, and that’s not even getting into the effectiveness of the 4th and 5th starters.

IMO, Smoltz, Hudson and Chuck NEED to go 7 every game, to give the bullpen rest, because they are almost always gonna be needed when ANYBODY ELSE starts.

Again, just calling like I see it. Maybe I need new glasses. :-)

By Thrillhouse44

June 8, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Way to stand up for yourself, DOB. It stinks that you have to remind people of what your job is.

Anyone notice that over the last ten games, the Mets and Braves are both 4-6 and the Phillies are 5-5? No one’s tearing it up. The division title is still obtainable. We’ll roll once Chipper and Smoltz get fully healthy.

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Sorry, meant to type “wasn’t” directed towards me…

By Amber

June 8, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

If Andruw lowers his value enough to make the Braves able to retain him… would we even want to?

And I don’t think it’s too early to panic, honestly. I know it’s a painful memory, but we can’t have forgotten last June where we did indeed lose the season.

By Bailey

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

DOB, nice retort.

I love seeing people get fired up about something for a reason. A lot of people on here, me included, get fired up about comments for no reason. I totally agree with you. If “Cutman” went around pi**ing off people at his work, it wouldn’ take long before he was looking for another job.

By Renegator

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

DOB:

Any word on Tanyon Stuertz? Seems like that was a wasted signing. Will he pitch this year?

By Bob, Journalist

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

Renegator, a houseman is one who has paid their dues … getting that honorable designation the old fashioned way … by earning it.

By JasonInMaine

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

Renegator,

We will snap out of this offensive funk one of these nights, and it might as well be tonight! The Bravos are going to bring the bats tonight folks!

Regards,

Jason

By tim

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

First of all good blog David. A lot better than the doom and gloom I read from mark bradley. Do you think the Mets are jumping off the bandwagon yet? They are playing just as crappy baseball as us. What about the Phils? and they’re behind us. Mark Bradley’s article was obviously for a response. If they were as bad as he says 1 pitcher wouldn’t make any difference. The Braves are 3.5 games back and missing their best hitter and their best pitcher isn’t 100%. This will be a tight race for the division and probably even tighter for the wild card.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 8, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Looks like Kala Kaaihue is heating up in Myrtle Beach:

Last 10 Games: .459 AVG., 37 AB, 13 Runs, 17 Hits, 3 Doubles, 5 HR, 16 RBI, 9 BB, 10 K

Season: .282 AVG., 29 runs, 48 hits, 12 doubles, 11 HR, 37 RBI, 26 BB, 54 K. .392 OBP, .559 SLG., .951 OPS.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Houseman or Housman? I think Housman is an actor or screen writer of some type. Strange way to insult someone.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

DOB: I try to weed out the facts as much as I can, but they keep getting in the way. I’ll work on it some more.

By ssiscribe

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

My two cents worth: DOB, great post, dude, but don’t let some wannabee hack sitting behind a keyboard, writing under a screen name that protects his identity, get to you like that.

You know this as well as I do: There are times in this profession where you just want to tell people to just go to hell and shut up. You do your job very well, and you go above and beyond. We certainly appreciate it.

So, don’t let some @$$clown get to you and give him or her the satisfaction of knowing they set you off. Keep on banging out that copy, spinning some Cash, enjoying some good BBQ and doing what you do. It’s all good, even when somebody who doesn’t know what the hell they’re talking about spouts off about something they have no business addressing.

Peace. Enjoy your weekend everybody. Be nice for the ballclub to win a couple this weekend, to hold off the hard-charging Phillies and to help some folks on ye ol blog chill out.

—30—

By bruce

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

Doctor Ubuto: Do you take paypal? lol

Dave: You are the man… you hit that one long and straight. Thanks. Bruce

By 22oz

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

You could cut this tension with a tomahawk!

By JasonInMaine

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

Folks, Devine is absolutely dealing right now at Miss. He struck out 4 the other night in 1.1 innings and he struck out the side last night while earning his 15th save and lowering his ERA to 1.63.

By Renegator

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

JasonInMaine:

I hope you are right, brother. Although this pitcher tonight scares me - he has already owned us once this week.

By N8

June 8, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew, it looks like you wasted your “stroke” post on me a little early, based on DOB’s 11:33. :-)

You go DOB. LOVE IT!

Hey DOB, can I have your cell #? I’m sure there’s NOTHING more you’d rathe do, than have me having your cell #.

I would call as often as I post. Here’s a glimpse:

Andruw Swings and misses at a low and away slider for strike 1.

(DOB’s cell phone) ..RING….RING…RING..

DOB: “hello”.

N8: “Did you see that SH!T?? I can’t believe he swung at that. L8R.

DOB: “bye”

Then Andruw swings and misses at strike two, on a pitch above his head.

(DOB’s phone) RING….RING….RING

DOB: “hellooooo”

N8: “dude, you gotta tell Andruw to lay off the high ones. I’m frickin sick of this!”

DOB: “we’ll do N8, gotta go. Trying to WORK here.”

N8: “Oh, sorry dude. L8R.”

Andruw then grounds into an inning ending double play while trying to pull and outside pitch.

(DOB’s phone) RING…RI

DOB” “STOP CALLING MY DAMN PHONE!!!”

N8: “Wow. what the hell got into you. I thought we were buddies?” YOU SUCK DOB! Your job is easy and you’re a weenie. Go back to Florida.

The game ends with the Braves falling 3-2 in extra innings, because Bobby used Salty as a pinch hitter for Thorma, but put Woodward in at 1B. The next inning McCann rolled his ankle and had to come out. The winning run scored on a Pete Orr passed ball. (sigh)

So there DOB sits in Bobby’s office (you know avoiding the “tough” questions.

(DOB’s Phone) RING…..RING…..RING…..

DOB (after checking caller ID): “Yeah, N8. What do you want THIS TIME?

N8: “Hey man. I just wanna say, I’m sorry for saying those rude things to you. Are we “good”?

DOB: “sure, whatever.”

N8: “Cool! Are you with Bobby?”

DOB: “Yup”

N8: “Good. Put his A$$ on the phone, I wanna ask him WHAT THE HELL HE WAS DOING, leaving himself with no “backup” catcher in an extra innings game…….

THE END

By Bailey

June 8, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

I’m going up to Myrtle Beach in July and we’re going to a Pelicansgame. I can’t wait to see some of the future Braves up there. Plus it will be my 5 month old daughter’s first live ball game. She loves watching with me at home. She cries when i change the channel. Who should I be excited to see up there. Kala, Elvis, who else?

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Apologies to John, I think David was just referring to a shill.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

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

No Renegator,

You are not the only one.

By ssiscribe

June 8, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

N8, I nearly spit Coke Zero all over my laptop reading your post. And spitting Coke Zero all over my laptop would not be good, considering in one week, it’s not my laptop anymore!

I could picture the other scribes in the press box looking at DOB every time the phone rang. “Damn, Dave, who keeps calling you? We’re trying to WORK here!”

That post was awesome! Well done.

—30—

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

My point is simply that I think the Braves would want at least one pitcher around Salty’s age or younger in a deal. And it appears the Braves see him as a catcher, according to Schuerholz. And I don’t see a team trading a young, established, good major league pitcher for anything so I think Schuerholz will trade him for a top pitching prospect and maybe a solid major leaguer. This is my best guess of how it’s going to go down.

It’s irrelevant what Schuerholz has done so far, in my opinion, because he’s never had a situation like this that I can remember. Yes, the Marte situation was somewhat similar but everyone in the game seems to think Salty will be much more valuable than Marte was even perceived to be.

DOB,

Did you read Keith Law’s article about high school vs. college players. Generally, high schoolers are more of a risk but are more likely to bring in big rewards and college players are more of a sure thing but you are less likely to get a superstar through the college ranks. Of course, this is a generalization and it’s probably a bad strategy to go for one over the other.

I do think it’s clear that it’s a bad strategy to use a high pick on stud high school pitcher because high school pitchers are often too risky to shell out huge signing bonuses to.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this

N8: Break down James by start. I think you’ll find he is steadily going deeper into games, which is a good trend. It’s promising. And, in a way, it makes it too early to rant in some cases. James could go off and put out 6+ innings the rest of the season.
As for Davies, the light has to really be worked with the mirrors to see a positive. In most of his bad starts, at least 2 runs are inherited runners scoring after he left the game…Paranto sucking wind instead of holding the opposition. That little twist in the stat is annoying. It’s fair in that pitcher A put them on. But not fair in that pitcher B let them score while A was on the bench. Pitcher B failed to do his job which was hold the opposition, yet pitcher A’s numbers are jacked because of it. Davies too has been having longer stretches of reliable pitching (going by inning instead of starts). He still has that 5 inning outing that is horrid, but they are getting further apart. This is something you have to go start by start and look at the inherited runners scored. Not saying he’s Cy Young when you look at it that way, but it shows some promise. More so than Odalis could show. And, in a way, it’s nice to have our counter part to Oliver Perez. A pitcher the league hits off of, but the rival can’t figure out.
Cormier has had 1 start. I’d like to see what he does tonight and maybe another start before I pass judgement.

James though is filling in much better. I think the depth he pitches will improve with the season. But a 3.66 ERA, even with 5.1 innings per start, tells me he is at least leaving the team in a position to win no matter what inning he exits.

I felt like KC typing that. Keep pushing and I’ll start breaking the stats down more. Where is KC anyway? Haven’t seen him on the blog in a while.

By Lee

June 8, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Renegator- thanks for the questiona and Bob Journalist thanks for the answer on houseman? I think I had heard the term once in my life from an ex-boss and had forgotten what it meant.

By Lee

June 8, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

Renegator- thanks for the question and Bob Journalist thanks for the answer on houseman? I think I had heard the term once in my life from an ex-boss and had forgotten what it meant.

By Shaun

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

TennPaul and DOB,

Excuse me, but what’s “emotional” about my opinion of how the Braves will handle the Saltalamacchia situation? Please, show me where I’ve brought emotion into it.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 8, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Republican Sen. Charles Bishop claimed that Democratic Sen. Lowell Barron called him a “son of a (expletive)” in the Senate chamber on Thursday.

“I responded to his comment with my right hand,” Bishop said.

“I was raised in the woods of Arkansas and people don’t say that about your mom,” Bishop said.

In honor of that nasty right-hand, Hillbilly dedicates a verse from Mr. Neil Young:

I’m from a new land,

I come to you and,

see all this ruin,

what are you doin’?

ALABAMA, You got the rest of the Union,

to help you along……

What’s going wrooooooooooonnnnnng?

By ncscoots

June 8, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

There might be something to Bob, Journalist’s “neck-up” theory.

Especially when you consider a couple of little factoids. In most years during the title run, the Braves were laden with experienced, solid veterans at most everyday positions. Heck, several All-Stars, in fact. The team’s modus operandi was to bring up one or two young players a year, but in no case was that young player expected to be an integral, team-carrying part of the offense. Contribute, young man, but the vets carry the heavy load. Young players could play and mature without feeling excessive pressure. The classic example is Andruw hitting all the way down at 7th when he initially came up.

But in the post-80-mil years, that’s no longer the case. More young players fill everyday positions, and thus must by default be more integral to the team’s offensive success. Young players such as McCann, Francouer, Kelly Johnson, and Scott Thorman do not have the luxury afforded their predecessors: maturing under the radar while more experienced players actually determine the team’s fortunes. Without that comfort zone, shoot, pressing is a given, it’s just a question of how much.

But here’s the thing. Many fans (and obviously most bloggers, LOL) expect these young men to play AS IF they already HAD five years of ML experience; as if they should not be subject to the tribulations of inexperience; as if they should innately understand the nature of their craft, rather than gain knowledge that can only be won with scars.

They can’t. They’re going to have to bleed and burn, just as every other member of their brethren did before them. And learn. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

In the meantime, we fans must hope their immense physical skills will be enough to feed our vicarious hunger, while they fall down, skin their knees, and get back up again. But to expect them to not fall down on occasion? Uh-uh.

By eric the elder

June 8, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

N8, great stuff. The tension is now officially broken.

By Bob, Journalist

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

It’s clear that it’s a bad strategy to use a high pick on stud high school pitcher because high school pitchers are often too risky to shell out huge signing bonuses to … huh?

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

N8, that was good. Made me smile. Nice dialogue.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 8, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Bailey,

If he keeps up this pace, you might have to go to Mississippi to see Kala in July.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

5HR in 10 games at Myrtle Beach is impressive. That’s Salty type production.

Payne: I think the past is relevant. I’m surprised you don’t. After all this time of spouting off statistics and using the past as a reason to take them seriously, suddenly a hunch is what you go on.
Before the Marte Deal, did anyone think we would get Renteria and cash for just 1 minor league prospect? I’m going to go out on a limb here and say no. JS manages deals no one dreams of and gets them done with less than would be expected. I’d agree, the pickins look slim for pitching, but I’m not going to rule out JS pulling off a trade. Our budget constraints don’t appear to be as strict as they were in the past. I have a feeling the main reason we don’t know for sure is because letting this cat out of the bag would ruin our leverage with Boras and AJ. I’m sure Boras is on to it as well, but the actual figure is still a mystery to all outsiders. Letting the world know you have 200 million to blow leads to Pavano asking for 40 million a year.
The one thing you can be certain of, JS isn’t going to over pay for any player.

By HAL 9000

June 8, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

SHAUN IS CORRECT. MACHINES ARE NOT CAPABLE OF SHOWING EMOTION.

By Carolina Lady

June 8, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

WAY TO GO, DOB!!! (cheers and whistles)

By Bailey

June 8, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

Anyone other than Kala (if not in AAA) and Elvis Andrus I should take note of in Myrtle Beach??

By BT

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

Dave,

How do you really feel about moronman, I mean cutman.

Great job on your reply and all your work.

By Coach

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

Great post N8 , made me laugh till my dentures came loose. Apparently Andruw would disagree with the phone conversation with this retort: Yo , dude ! did you not see that fastball I hit into the right field stands last night off Rich Hill ? Right field blogger man , right field and you all think I’m a dead pull hitter ! Well , I am a dead pull hitter , unless somebody throws me a belt high fastball down the middle , then I’m an equal opportunity stat padding fatboy on the way to the promised land of free F$%#ing agency !

By Renegator

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

One difference with Marte and Salty is that Marte was a bust (I thought it was pretty evident when he only batted .140 when he was brought up)and Salty looks to be the real-deal. I think that may be some of the reason that JS doesn’t know what to do with him (Salty).

By Notewise

June 8, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

Love the Blog… I know Escobar is having a good start here in the majors in place of Chipper, but I haven’t heard anything else on Aybar in a while. Anything new to report on his status with the league or the team??

By Salty

June 8, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

N8 Are you bipolar? Somethin’s goin’ on upstairs! :-)

By N8

June 8, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

siscribe, DOB, & Eric

Thanks. Laughter is truely the best medicine. So I’ve got that goin’ for me…..which is nice.

So, really…DOB…what’s your cell #?

By eric the elder

June 8, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

ncscoots, exactly right. Exactly.

I firmly believe that what we have is not this year’s team. It’s next year’s and the next, for all the reasons you gave. That’s why I counsel that we not let the finger get too twitchy over the trade button, that we understand the realities of where we are, and that we be patient.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this

Gosh Scoots!

By TennesseePaul

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

Payne: (shaking my head) I… jokes… they’re… they’re not good when explained.

(pssst, reference 8:08 and 11:33 for starters.)

By Shaun

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

It’s clear that it’s a bad strategy to use a high pick on stud high school pitcher because high school pitchers are often too risky to shell out huge signing bonuses to … huh?

Brian Taylor, Todd Van Poppel. High school pitchers are clearly a huge risk for high picks. Here’s something John Sickels wrote a few years ago:

There’s no question that, over a long period of time, first-round high school pitchers have underperformed their college counterparts.

“A draft strategy that writes Josh Beckett off your list can’t be the way to go.” The problem is that we don’t know exactly how Josh Beckett’s career is going to develop. A few years ago, we could have written the same sentence about Steve Avery or Dwight Gooden … or Roger Salkeld. Beckett is the best pitching prospect in baseball, right now. But Beckett could blow out his shoulder next week and never pitch again, for all we know.

It is easy to say something like “If I were a scouting director, I’d never pick a high school pitcher.” But faced with someone with the talent of Josh Beckett, well, it might be hard to stick with it. I think what it boils down to is knowing the odds: the odds are stacked against first-round high school pitchers. They are also stacked against high school catchers, yet the Twins had no compunction about drafting Joe Mauer last year, and it is hard to fault their decision.

There are occasional examples of pitchers who are so overwhelmingly talented that history is less important. It would be foolish to tell any scouting director not to draft Josh Beckett or Joe Mauer. But it would be equally foolish for scouting directors to draft first-round high school pitchers year after year, which some teams do, in defiance of history.

How do you tell whether a guy is a good gamble as high schoolers go? Well, you have to look at the same things you look for in any pitcher: velocity, command, mechanics, intellect, emotional maturity, workload history, overall athleticism. And even a high school pitcher who has all of those things still has the odds stacked against him. Josh Beckett may beat those odds. If he does, he’s an exception to the rule. We’ll find out soon enough.

By Lee

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

This is a reply made by ESPN’S Jerry Crasnick live chat line going on now when asked where these 3 players end up next year.

If Torii Hunter doesn’t stay in Minnesota, I can see him playing for the Rangers. I think Seattle finds a way to re-sign Ichiro. Andruw is the tough one for me. My gut tells me he really wants to stay in Atlanta, but he has Scott Boras for an agent, so it’s ultimately going to come down to heart vs. money.

By N8

June 8, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Salty

“N8 Are you bipolar? Somethin’s goin’ on upstairs! :-)”

Nope. See that’s the problem. You all assume that I’m this angry, bitter man that complains about anything and everything. Well, it’s true except fot the “angry, bitter” part.

99.9999999 percent of my posts are pure sarcasm, and when they’re not, they are intentionally trying to get a rise out of the homers.

I’m about the most mellow, person I know. EVERYTHING is funny to me.

Period.

Don’t mistake my complaining for anger. I’m far from angry.

By shannon

June 8, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Any word on Sturtze? It’s been about a month since he went down to Florida to pitch to live hitters. Is he anywhere near being ready?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

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

Bailey,

Maybe Jordan Schaefer (outfield) or Moises Hernandez (starting pitcher).

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Renegator: As true today as when it was written. Marte, a bust, was traded for Renteria and Cash. Salty, a success, should at least pull in major league talent and more if traded.
I’m not saying JS wouldn’t trade Salty for a major league position player of help and pedigree PLUS minor leaguers. I just don’t see him trading Salty for straight up minor leaguers.

By bravesfan

June 8, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

David have you heard anything about this? This came from SI.

Yunel Escobar, 3B, Braves: The Braves farm system keeps churning out major league talent. The latest is Escobar, an infielder who was recalled when Chipper Jones landed on the DL. A former member of the Cuban Junior National Team, Escobar defected to the U.S. in 2005 and was drafted a month after being rescued by the Coast Guard near Miami. A line-drive hitter with decent power potential, Escobar was the batting champion in the Arizona Fall League this past offseason with a .407 average (to go along with 22 RBIs) in 86 at-bats and was hitting .333 with two home runs and 29 RBIs in 180 at-bats at Richmond when summoned to the majors. Monday night was Escobar’s coming out party as he collected four hits and his first major league home run in a loss to the Marlins. With Chipper out indefinitely, Escobar is an excellent short-term pickup for the next few weeks. While it appears that there is no space for Escobar in a healthy Atlanta infield, there’s long been speculation of a Jones switch to first base, and should Escobar prove ready, that could come sooner rather than later.

By Bailey

June 8, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

I think my dad told me he read in ChopTalk that Schasfer was a heck of a defensive outfielder. It that the same guy i’m thinking about??

By tim

June 8, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

great post n8. i’m still laughing

By StingerSplash

June 8, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

Cutman, If you can get quotes from three or four different people who probably don’t feel like being badgered about anything after another loss, sculpt that into a game story that includes what transpired and what it means and what could follow, squeeze that all into about 15 inches of copy (on a good night, if the desk isn’t running everybody tight) and get it done in about 65 minutes (thought I’d go a little Munson. I just made myself ill), which is a lot of time on a good night, then have at it bro. I don’t know Mr. O’Brien. Wouldn’t know him if I stood next to him in line at a show. Don’t care, either. I do think he’s one of the AJC’s better writers (nobody, though, can lay a glove on Jack Wilkinson. Not even Schultz). But if you think going down to the clubhouse and trying to force quotes out of pro athletes/coaches (some of whom aren’t particularly brilliant or articulate or gracious) is a day at the beach ….

By eware

June 8, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

DOB, you got your BLACK KEYS tickets for June 21st at the Tabernacle??? Or, will you be with the team between Boston and Detroit?

I thought you would like the Golden Smog album.

By Lew

June 8, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Nathan-No I don’t picture you pacing between posts. You never stop posting your negativity long enough to pace.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Nathan-No I don’t picture you pacing between posts. You never stop posting your negativity long enough to pace.

I’ll admit, I did picture him barking at people passing in front of his house.

By brent a.

June 8, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Would someone be kind enough to offer a response to my 11:05 AM post?

I’m curious …

Thanks,

brent a.

By bravefansince54

June 8, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for saying it straight. You have my full support and appreciation for running this blog.

I looked in vain for anyone’s reaction to Carlisle (sp.?) being sent down after a stellar performance. My own 3 thoughts are, one, that this would have to have been utterly demoralizing to him; two, that the given rationale for the ‘send down’decision didn’t cut it (i.e. needing a 13th pitcher, or was it a 14th?); and, three, why wasn’t he brought back at very earliest possibility. The silence of this blog on this subject baffles me - especially since we all know pitching is both the name of the game and the problem. Heck, Bobby stayed with any number of pitchers doing a lot worse. Can’t understand this move after that performance.

By BossLady

June 8, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

N8 good post I’m still laughing. By the way DOB don’t give N8 your number. This is an Atlanta paper ya know, no telling what would happen, LOL

By Lew

June 8, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Nathan-I posted that James had had three consecutive quality starts. That, by definition, means he pitched at least 6 innings per gam-seven yesterday. I think he’s improving on his 5.1 IP average. You should try not posting during games-something I almost strudiously do. People are way too reactionary to insignifigances during the game, with no idea of the future outcome, or how stupid and ridiculous they sound post facto. Living in the hinterlands, myself, I do understand about not being able to see games (I know it’s football, but I haven’t seen much of my Bucs for six seasons-luckily they DID televise their Super Bowl win), but Dude, your negative rants are constant. It’s early in the season and we are still positioned very close to the top, despite our less than stellar performance. I, too, would love to see Andruw break loose-he’s killing my fantasy team-but ranting like an absolute mad person, ad infinitum, is unlikely to help much-just enough for people to think your a head case, which I know you’re not -Really I don’t.

By rammerjammer

June 8, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

N8,

Great post, still laughing!

Someone mentioned Devine in AA earlier. In his last 10 innings, he’s struck out 20. Yes. 10 IP, 20 Ks. Whoa.

By rammerjammer

June 8, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

More on Devine. In his last 5 1/3 innings, he’s fanned 14. Sixteen outs, 14 on strikeouts! Mercy.

By Bailey

June 8, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Brent, that really did’t make sense, but who am i to question Bobby. I would have left Thorman in there (unless he was hurt), then PH Salty. That gives you two power guys to try to tie the game.

Although, Woodward is more of a sngles hitter. Putting him in front of KJ and Escobar, could have resulted in two on with two out for Edgar or somehting like that.

You know, though, if Salty had doubled, Woodward had singled him home, no one would be questioning it. Why is that??

By MBATL

June 8, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

brent a., I don’t know, but my guess is: Salty had the best likelihood of getting on base (much higher OBP than Woodward). So you hope to get a runner on, use Woodward (or someone) to sacrifice him over, and with 1 out, give KJ and Escobar a chance to drive home the tying run.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

I do think the past is relevant but when in the past has Schuerholz been in a situation like this?

Like I said, the Marte situation was somewhat similar but everyone seems to think Salty is a lot better or at least a lot more valuable because of his position.

Marte was a top prospect, but there always seemed to be questions about his control of the strikezone as a hitter.

With Salty, he clearly has the best prospect at a particular position, a position that is already filled. This is why I think he’ll try to get a player or players that will be close to as valuable for as long as Salty will likely be instead of pulling a Renteria-Marte-type deal.

By Jersey Gil

June 8, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

brent a. The only i think that Bobby was thinking was Salty bat for Thorman have a Hit and With the Pitcher was coming Next, he can use the Pitcher to bunt and Moved the runner and he not have to Burn another player from the Bench.Remember the bench is real skinner with one position player less.

By metsmanintheatl

June 8, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

you must be dreaming: final standings/METROS 1st, phillies-5 games out, marlins-12 games out, braves-20 games out, nationals-32 games out…NUFF SAID….A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN…YOUR 2007 WORLD CHAMPION NEW YORK METROPOLITANS!!!!!!!!!!!

By tim

June 8, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

brent a….my feeling is that a manager a lot of times will play for a tie at home. if salty gets a hit he can be bunted over to set up the tying run on a hit. just a guess though

By flange1

June 8, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Well for one, I would like to say thanks to DOB for having this blog and for giving us the information that he does. Before I found this blog, I would spend hours searching the net for baseball and Braves information. Now, I spend some time looking for that information, but more time reading and follwoing this blog.

The discussions are great and thought provoking, and the music/bbq/toes/pie/bird stuff is fun as well, but the real reason I am here is to listen and hear what DOB can give from the inner circle. He will never tell more than he should but, the story anout Soriano and Druw singing a duet in Spanish is to me worth putting up with all of the absurd Donk comments from the peanut gallery.

So, thanks for the blog and the insight DOB! Also thanks for turning me on to Ella Guru and some cool music!

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Eware, I’ve been so out of the loop with all the recent travel, haven’t even picked up a Creative Loafing lately to check concert dates. I didn’t know Black Rebel Motorcycle Club was in town last night, and didn’t know Black Keys were coming. We’re home on 21st, those are home series vs. Boston and Detroit. That’s an off day, so I’ll probably try to get to that show. Saw them at Variety last year. Lot of energy. Songs get a bit redundant live with just the two guys, but still a great show.

You know how the Keys sound best, in my opinion? On the Ipod shuffle, when one of their songs comes up. That’s when you truly appreciate their greatness. When listened to on an entire CD, I think the similar-sounding nature of their songs can lessen their impact. But that’s just my opinion.

Speaking of Black Keys, I got the last CD from Black Angels, who opened for the Keys last year. Great CD, dark, heavy stuff from psychedelic band out of Austin.

A great new CD: The National’s “Boxer.” They opened for Arcade Fire, and I liked them so much I bought the CD this week. Really strong.

Got the new Chris Cornell, haven’t listened to it yet.

By Salty

June 8, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

N8 You ‘ying and yang’…fun reading. I was needling you…anyone writes like you knows that, though.

BTW, Lew gotcha good with his ‘pace’ retort.

By rammerjammer

June 8, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

One more thing on Devine and then I’ll stop.

RH batters are hitting .131 against him. In 18 IP, he’s allowed 8 hits, 3 BB and 33 Ks. A nice 11/1 K/BB ratio.

Against lefties, 9 IP, 3 R, 9 H, 9 BB (ouch) and 8 Ks.

Is there such a thing as a situational righthander?

Anyway, interesting numbers from a possible future closer.

By ElbravoX

June 8, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Snap! DOB is, if anything, doing us a favor by blogging daily with players insights. Although not always agreeing with him, “A HOUSEBOY” is cheap, uncalled for and demeaning for all of us. GO DOB-and pray for Paris Hilton!

By Greg O.

June 8, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Maybe I’m the only idiot listening in to MLB.com’s live pick-by-pick coverage of the draft, but I’m shocked by the number of college guys the Braves are drafting. It certainly seems out of character. Am I incorrectly reading into that as a sign that the Braves don’t have much faith in their farm system for the first time in a while so they need to go for some quick fixes from college?

By MBATL

June 8, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

bravefansince54, I really doubt that Carlyle was emotionally destroyed by being sent down. Disappointed? Probably. But he’s not a kid… he understands “the business” and is probably real pleased that he’s likely to get another shot, having done a good job.

I can only guess that Bobby wasn’t allowing 1 game to determine who the 5th starter is. Cormier won the job in ST, and the Braves plan to give him a chance to keep it. Also, we really were pressed for pitching, with a tough schedule and not knowing if or how long Smoltz would be able to go.

And, unless someone goes on the DL, Carlyle can’t be brought back for 10 days after being sent down.

I’m not saying it’s a bad question or that the answer is a “slam dunk.” But that’s the way I see it.

By brent a.

June 8, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Thanks to all who responded. Everything offered makes sense.

I think as much as anything, I was expecting to see Salty at 1B in the ninth (after pinch-hitting for Thorman), and was surprised to see Woodward there. That set my mental wheels turning …

By tim

June 8, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

To David O Brien….I have an idea for an upcoming article that would interest me. Could you do a breakdown of the Braves draft? Where there from, their stats, their upsides, etc…thanks

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul and Regenerator,

I don’t think Salty is a success yet. I think the chances of him being a success are overwhelming but I don’t know if I would call him a success just yet.

And I think the chances of Marte being the star everyone thought he would be are not very good, clearly. But he’s still young enough that he could be a decent major leaguer. So I wouldn’t call him a bust just yet. Somewhat a disappointment so far but not quite a bust just yet.

Not that this is all that relevant to the discussion, but just thought I’d throw it out there.

By Jon

June 8, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

can we please please please stick to baseball and music! I get on here to read the inside “clubhouse” part of the Braves and your music likes, which compares to my music taste. Lets quit bickering on here because I don’t care to see it! Lets trade the insults on email not on here! DOB, noone INCLUDING ME have no clue on what goes on with development of players and what Bobby is thinking in certain situations. Trust me man, you don’t have to explain ANYTHING to those of us who think we know it all and try to use you as a source for giving Bobby suggestions in his office.

By MBATL

June 8, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

brent a., I’d be real surprised to see Salty inserted at 1B in the 9th inning of a 1-run game. For now, anyway… love the discussion, though…

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

N8, I’m about the most mellow, person I know … Here, here … aren’t we all!

Top of the Midday Cato, Scoots!

That you don’t learn how to win from winning is an obvious simplification but, like Houseman said, you gotta earn it!

Perhaps some such evidence is the number of “losers” who are traded and later enjoy success … and the number of instant successes that never realize their potential.

It seems that when things are going bad, we want to replace the “losers” for “winners” so as to misdirect and avoid responsibility for our failures … learning virtually nothing … and the beat goes on!

From a more oblique perspective, there’s little question that some are more gifted than others but instant gratification ain’t what it’s cracked up to be … it is delusional and frequently deprives us of long lasting pleasure.

I’m also bemused by the notion that slumps don’t require a plane of reference … like youngsters attempting something new are in slumps when things aren’t going well … it seems that some folks confuse flaws with slumps and would rather cope with the latter than admit and address the former … but then, bemused is my middle name.

Enough of this and that … Scoots, a most serious and sincere kudo for eloquently putting into words that which I have been struggling to suggest!

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about where you folks are … but methinks we’re in for a major storm … hope so from a rain perspective … stay safe!

By Bailey

June 8, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Brent, I do agree that the way Bobby worked the lineup, it would have seemed that Salty would have played 1B, but I knew it wouldnt happen. If the Braves REALLY want Salty to move to 1B, they will sacrifice his bat for a few weeks and send him to AAA to strictly play first, until they cant stand Thorman anymore. I just dont think that’s the mind set right now.

By MBATL

June 8, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Regarding the draft: Who knows if they’ll amount to anything, but add (indirectly, at least) Jonathon Gilmore (3B, 34th overall pick) and Josh Fields (Pitcher, from UGA, 69th overall pick) to the results of trading Betemit.

These two picks were compensation for the loss of Danys Baez to free agency. The baseball draft is very much a numbers game… acquire lots of potential and hope a handful work out… and it’s nice to have had 5 picks in the top 108.

By Jon

June 8, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

DOB…I’m curious to know what you would do if you were the the brain of the Braves organization right now. For example, I was…I would stongly consider putting Moylan in the 7th inning role behind Soriano and Wickman. I know Yates can be filthy, but just something about him man. I think he is suited better to come in and strand runners after 1-2 outs is already on the board. I know this doesnt make sense because he isnt a sinker ball pitcher like Moylan and Paronto, but Moylan has that Jeff Nelson like fresbie slider. After that, I would trade Salty for a VERY GOOD starting pitcher. A young..cheap starting pitcher..someone like Rich Harden, who is injured, but can be dominant when healthy. With Bobbys patience, he wont rush him back until he is ready. Last but not least, be patient and get Chipper back so we can slide Rent back to the 2 hole. I LOVE KEEPNG MCCANN 4TH. Andruw 5th with Francouer 6th. Lets keep Thorman at 1st and see what happens. I have a feeling his is about to breakout big time. Again, I may be way off, but its still fun to have your own ideas. What would you do DOB?

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Greg O,

I posted my personal philosophy on a previous blog as to why the Braves may take more college players than high school players in this draft and subsequent drafts. While I still think they look for the best player on the board, especially early, I do think a shift in mindset may be taking place. Basically, I said the following:

They could afford to draft high school pitchers as a result of their major league staffs. If you have 3 established aces anchoring your staff for a decade (Glavine, Smoltz, Maddux), you can draft players that will have longer development cycles. If you also have a seemingly unending budget like the Braves did under Ted and are consistently a big time player in the free agent market, you can draft players that will take longer to develop. When you have neither of these luxuries and are in need of dipping into the minors on a yearly basis to find contributors to the big club, in theory the amount of time you can wait for players to develop shortens.

For example, teams like the A’s draft according to a shortened development cycle and try and find players they think will have a more immediate impact.

I could be way off, it certainly wouldn’t be the first or last time, but with the changing dynamics of the game; I think it makes some sense. Shaun argued that if you are developing every year that you should have players ready every year and that drafting high schoolers vs college players doesn’t matter. I happen to think it does matter, especially when you have called up 20+ rookies in 2 years. To continue their winning tradition within the evolving MLB landscape, they need players ready sooner.

Regards,

Jason

By Lew

June 8, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Salty-That’s OK, I’ll get him back later. Nathan and I have been going back and forth for two years now. Don’t see any reason to stop because he got one good one in. It’s ongoing.

By Lew

June 8, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Jon-Just because we know it all doesn’t mean we’re not entitled to an explanation.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Just read the 11:33 post. Great job.

It was getting old yesterday reading about the Braves’ destiny to be a non-contender in 2007 (maybe they will, maybe they won’t).

Any one who thinks the media should treat Bobby Cox or John Schuerholz like this team needs to be rebuilt after 62 games (and an over .500 record), needs to forget about trying to pay attention to the game as a fairly intelligent fan.

By Turning Japanese

June 8, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Anybody checked out the Amanda Beard pics, yet?

By Lew

June 8, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Jason-We drafted Devine out of college, rushed him up and look how well that went. Now, two years later, almost like a HSchooler, he’s about ready. We have players already in the pipeline, developed like we always have. Even if we drafted college players, in almost all cases, they will still be a year or two away from being ML ready and be behind those we’ve been training for a couple of years, so what difference does it make? Like DOB mentioned, the difference between the aluminum and wooden bats is significant and it takes college players a while to get used to the difference. With college pitchers, who have almost had heads, arms and other limbs taken off with line drives from aluminum, it seems they develop a form of shell shock-apparently quite detrimental to their development as pitchers. You can’t just draft players, rush them up and expect them to perform, just because they went ot college and played 60 game schedules (or whatever). Believe me, it doesn’t work much more often than it does.

By ncscoots

June 8, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Actually, you don’t need to develop a major-league-ready position player every year, only every six years (club control plus the arb years). Anything more than that is just trade material.

Therefore, Salty MUST be traded, LOL!

By Chop Chop

June 8, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Here’s an idea for the AJC…

Instead of relying on the Chop Chick’s rare blogging in the offseason, why not give some of the bloggers here an opportunity to handle the fan blog? Just make sure there’s a disclaimer over the fan blog section that says, in the largest and boldest type imaginable, “THE OPINIONS AND VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE FOLLOWING DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THOSE OF THE AJC OR ANY OTHER HUMANS ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH.” That should avoid any libel suits.

Or maybe DOB could just let us log in as him and write crazy $hit.

By Daxxed

June 8, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

I have repeatedly vented about the Braves and BC not playing small ball or ABC baseball to win games they had the chance to if only they would have. After analyzing all the losses here is the facts. Of all the losses to date the Braves could have Tied 6 Away games…Tied 3 Home games…Won 1 Away game and never had a chance to win a Home game…

So the Braves would only be 1 game closer to the Mets for certain and out of the 9 ties the Braves could have won…well even if they would have won 3 the Braves would be tied with the Mets….

My prediction still stands for the All Star Break…except the Braves may even be behind the Marlins, Phillies and Mets by then….

But after reviewing all games the largest Inning killer has been AJ….leaving runners hanging as he goes for the fence…

Surprise…AJ hit a homer to right last night…amazing what he can do when he goes with the pitch instead of trying to send it to the fence in left…When he tries for the fence he Strikes Out …One plus is that he is making himself more affordable for the Braves to keep him…Keep it up AJ your defense is still awesome if you would only learn to bunt.

By eware

June 8, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Agreed on the Black Keys, DOB. It does rock when one of their songs comes up on Shuffle.

I’ll be attending the concert with my bro-in-law and would love to have you join us. That is, if you don’t have some fine lady you’re taking.

By MEB

June 8, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

DOB… great post and don’t worry, we got your back! Looking forward to the Braves bats waking up tonight.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Speaking of under appreciated astuteness … Chipper needs to gather the kiddies around his locker & explain that Big Hoss is hurt & they can win without him … this group looks like a bunch of kids who lost their dog might so qualify!

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

I do think the past is relevant but when in the past has Schuerholz been in a situation like this?

Payne: At least now you are back on the topic. But I still disagree. I don’t think this is a “situation” which would force JS to work any differently than in the past. Part of his success is working with a plan and sticking to it in all situations. The historical track record says JS will more than likely stick with the same plan that has brought success to the organization over the past decade and a half. A two fold plan which emphasizes development of players for currency or product. Situations dictate which of those two it will be. All moves are to help the team directly. That is to say, we aren’t rebuilding anything. We restock the minors through the draft and the occasional LaRoche type trades. But even then, we seem to always get major league talent along with minor leaguers. A strong development system is key regardless.

By ncscoots

June 8, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Or maybe DOB could just let us log in as him and write crazy $hit.

Hey, I LIKE it!

But only if I can use “jeepers” as much as I want.

By Greg in TN

June 8, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Afternoon Folks…

Returning to Planet Braves after an unintended hiatus and have only been able to catch fleeting moments of the games in the past 4-5 days. Doesn’t look like I missed too much.

We’re not a very good baseball team at the moment. Runs are at a premium. We don’t seem to match up very well right now against the Fins or the Nats and I don’t think MLB will let us play all our remaining games against the mets. We miss Chipper right now, an obvious understatement, AJ’s 2-4 performance last night has been the bright spot in an otherwise forgettable week for him offensively speaking.

DOB Great post at 11:33, loved the response and agree with it all.

Nate I, like many others, had a laugh at your 12:14. Very funny post.

We’re 3 1/2 out at the moment folks. JS is obviously in talks for upgrades so it will be interesting to see what moves are made between now and the trading deadline. The talk about Griffey is interesting as is the conjecture about Texiera and Gagne. The more I think about it, moving Soriano to the starting rotation at some point and perhaps bringing in a guy like Gagne or Lidge is an option.

Still an awful lot of baseball left.

By Shaun

June 8, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

JasonInMaine,

I’m of the opinion you should take the best player available (with a few exceptions). The baseball draft is such a crap shoot that it’s kind of strange to have that much of a strategy as far as going with high school over college and vice versa. I think the fact that college players have quicker development cycles is somewhat negated by the fact that the draft is such a crap shoot and that high school players generally have more upside.

By Jim

June 8, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I have the following take on the draft.

I think signability is much more a concern for the last 2 drafts than in the past. The Braves did sign a fairly highly rated juco pitcher as a draft and follow this year (Cole Rohrbough) — essentially another 2nd or 3rd round pick, but have not drafted anyone who is likely to exceed slot money by very much. The first round pick last year seems to have been a big reach and may have been a signability pick since some big-time college pitchers like Bard and Chamberlain were still available. The Braves did seem to make some good picks last year with the next 4 high school pitchers that they got in the next couple of rounds, and this may have lessened their need for pitchers this year.

The 5th round pick, Dixon, projects to be the starting quarterback for Oregon this fall and is a toolsy guy with limited baseball experience. It will be interesting to see what it will cost to sign him, and, if they can’t, why they wasted such a high pick on such a player.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

So much for Great Expectations … we just got 1.2 minutes … in Tennessee, we measure the rain in minutes rather than inches so as to avoid confusion.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Payne: Marte vs Salty as a success or not. This is inteded to reflect the limited playing time Marte had before being traded compared to Salty now. Salty is by far more of a success than Marte at the MLB level at this early stage in the game.

By Efrim

June 8, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

ALL

If the Cubs sweep the Braves this series, will all of you still say there is a lot of baseball to be played???

I think that is a fair question.

By Scott

June 8, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

I thought the MLB draft was cool. It was a lot more interesting that the NBA or NFL draft.

By Greg in TN

June 8, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Bob,

How true… It took me a minute to realize the loud roar outside was rain and not just an unusually noisy AC unit on the roof of the building here.

By Tad

June 8, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

brent a.

You make a good point about the pinch hitters last night. Leading off the 8th against the lefty Hill, Bobby pinch hit Salty for Thorman and he struck out. Then Bobby pinch hit Woodward for Yates and he promptly flied out on a second pitch curve ball.

Perhaps he was considering the following stats:

Saltalamacchia has a .300 batting average (.364 BA right-handed) and .365 OBP.

Woodward has a stellar .220 average, which includes only .209 BA against LHP and a .247 OBP.

Since Woodward was going to be an automatic out anyway, having him hit behind Salty would at least have given the Braves a chance to advance the tying run to second with a bunt if Salty got on base.

Something HAS TO BE DONE to give the Braves some depth and options.

When a lefty starts, we have these options for pinch hitting: vs. L: Woodward (.209) and Salty (.364). vs. R: Harris (.397), Orr (.231), and Salty (.240).

When a righty starts, whe have these options for pinch hitting: vs. L: Diaz (.337), Woodward (.209), and Salty (.364). vs. R: Orr (.231) and Salty (.240).

Salty, Diaz, and Harris are the only legitimate pinch hitters on the team and 1-2 of these 3 are going to be starting every game. These stats prove the worthlessness of Chris Woodward and Pete Orr. Pete Orr has speed, but you can’t steal if you’re never on base, thus he has no SB attempts this year. He could pinch run for McCann late in a game, but not if Salty has already pinch hit because we have no other catchers.

The Braves have 22 SB in 30 attempts and rank 13th out of the 16 NL teams in that category. The Mets are first with 69 in 83 attempts.

This brings me to first base. The Braves were 25-15 when Craig Wilson was released on 5/17 and they are 8-13 since. Scott Thorman is hitting .178 against lefties and only .226 overall. Since Wilson’s release, Thorman is 12 for 72 (.167).

I believe Salty can be the starting first baseman next year. This year, we need some help over there.

Enough for now. See you at the 755 Club on Saturday night. Go Braves!

By scott

June 8, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

The Mets are doing terrible right now too. They have lost 4 in a row. And the Braves will not be swept by the Cubs. The Cubs are terrible.

By Chop Chop

June 8, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Just imagine a post like this…

*By David O’Brien November 5, 2007 7:21 AM | Link to this

Donk is an idiot.*

No one would ever know who logged in as DOB. It would be a fun guessing game.

By tim

June 8, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Efrim….If the Braves lose 70 in a row and are still only 3.5 games out I would say there is a lot of baseball to play…what’s your point?

By tim

June 8, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

Efrim, you can go ahead and jump off the bandwagon or a tall building…whatever

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

I am not saying your are necessarily wrong, but the team’s situation dictates it. As far as team’s having particular strategies…the A’s absolutely have a particular strategy in regards to the draft. As a matter of fact, on “The Herd” (which I don’t particularly like) today, they were espousing that Billy Beane has revolutionized the draft by having the particular strategy that I am talking about. They attribute Oakland’s ability to be competitive year in and year out due to this fact.

Regards,

Jason

By Thrillhouse44

June 8, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

I will say that, Efrim. Because there will still be a lot of baseball left. If the Braves sweep the Twins and Indians, I’ll still say there’s plenty of baseball left.

By Salty

June 8, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Efrim If the Cubs sweep the Braves this series, will all of you still say there is a lot of baseball to be played???

Yep…about 98 games…and not being a smart-a$$ either. No one’s standing out right now (Philly’s trying)…and come September, who really knows. As long as Los Bravos are playing (what I hope is) below expectations, they’re as good as anyone else once they hit their stride. Let’s see what happens after the home series with the Red Socks and Tigers(?). By then, June’s almost up and we’ll know if this is an ‘06 replay.

By Lew

June 8, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Scoots-Jeepers? It will never replace Yikes. Efrim-YES-because there will still be 98 games left and Chipper will be back sometime. You have noticed that the Phillies are barely playing .500 ball and the Mets have lost four in a row and we haven’t lost any more ground? We’re 3 1/2 games out from a team we beat like a rug and have 9 games left against them. Do the math. The Phillies pitching is much worse than ours. Analysis, Grasshopper. Yours is slipping again. What are you, twelve and can’t sleep if the Braves don’t win?

By doug

June 8, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

Options when Chipper comes off the DL and what to do with Escobar and Salty.

Do nothing and send Escobar back to minors and play Chipper at third and Thorman at First, or maybe Escobar plays left field and you get all three in the lineup. But that still leaves Salty with very few at bats as the third catcher.

Chipper at third, Salty at first, Thorman platooning with Diaz in left and Escobar either sent down or Woodward/Orr is released and Escobar becomes uber utility guy (like we all wanted in the spring and last winter when we talked about acquiring Figgins).

One of the least likely senarios, Chipper to first, Escobar stays at third, and Salty stays at backup catcher or gets sent down. I would say send him down in that senario, because he needs at bats.

It all comes down to who do you like more. Escobar or Salty. I personally think Escobar is a more MLB ready player and we need to find ways to get him regular at bats.

Some interesting decisions to be made coming up.

By **[David O'Brien Imposter](http://www.ajc.com/sports)**

June 8, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

This Braves Beat Blog rules! Could we have a new blog page daily? My internet freezes up often when there is a long blog going on and I attempt to load the page or refresh.

By Greg in TN

June 8, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Yes. At least I will be.

By flange1

June 8, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Tenn Paul,

I hear you again on the Salty/Marte thing, but where did you come up with that the payroll is not as tight now? Remeber Furcal left leaving his $6 million, we traded Marte for Edgar plus cash. The net spending was 0.

If Salty is traded now before the end of the season where are the additional funds going to come from to pay the ML player you think we will get for him?

I must have missed Liberty giving JS more money to spend. I thought I heard that the payroll was staying the same.

So I guess you are saying is Salty will not be traded until the winter meetings right?

By John Adcox

June 8, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Anyone going to the game tonight?

I’m back from LA and the weird world of television, and I’m hitting the game tonight with a pal, and the making the drive to Birmingham to see the Mississippi Braves. If anyone’s there, say hello.

John

By Salty

June 8, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Red Socks? Sheesh…what little baseball credibility I had just flew out the …blog! Perhaps leotards henceforth.

By ObiWanKobe

June 8, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

DOB; Have you ever heard of a band called Mates of State? They met in Lawrence, Kansas…

By Lee

June 8, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

What are you, twelve and can’t sleep if the Braves don’t win?

Thanks Lew - that one made me laugh a little.

By Greg O.

June 8, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks Jason! I’m on the fence about the whole thing. It certainly surprised me to see so many college guys going to the Braves as early as they did, but I’m still undecided as to what it means. The thing that I don’t buy about the Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz going along with Ted Turner comment is that those three haven’t been together in Atlanta for five years now (with Glavine leaving after 2002 and Maddux after 2003). Did it really take the organization five years to realize that they couldn’t go high school heavy in the draft? And even without Ted’s money, the Braves spent as much as, if not more than all but three organizations on signing budget for the 2006 draft. As I’m following the draft, Atlanta has used four of their last five picks on high school guys, three out of four from Georgia and the other from Florida, so maybe they have a clear plan and like their under-the-radar local talent. Let’s just hope these guys sign. And I guess we shouldn’t forget that the first two picks were high school guys. And I won’t complain that their 18th Round pick is a guy I’ve watched for the last two years in Randy Gress from Quinnipiac University.

By Lew

June 8, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Doug-Orr still has plenty of options left. Send him down (I don’t think much of Woodward, but he can play more positions) and let Escobar back up Edgar KJ and Chipper. I will never say any ML player should be dumped (well, almost never), but Woodward and Orr are imminently replaceable.

By ncscoots

June 8, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Lew, I guess you missed an earlier post of mine (some days ago now), since that one left it very clear that never would I wish to supplant “yikes” with “jeepers”. Rather, I opined that the latter would be a fine companion to the former in one’s elegant use of language here on the blog, LOL.

Hence, my current holy trinity of blog-isms: “jeepers”, “yikes”, and “Holy Cornelia”. As in, “J, Y, and HC, but can that kid hit!”

You see where I’m coming from. I know you do. :-)

By Lew

June 8, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Flange-Liberty told everyone that the agreement with MLB specified that salary could not decrease, but Liberty said that all indications were that it could go up some. Their desire is to maintain the Braves level of winning. It will make them worth more when they finally sell the team. It’s doubtful that we’ll get an extra $10 mil this season, but the purse strings could be loosened a bit to acquire a couple of pieces. At least that’s how I read their comments and those of McGuirk, et al.

By Berigan

June 8, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Lew, sorry about yesterday! I don’t know why, but I always want to give Millwood 20 wins the season before he was traded!!! Plus, I just haven’t been thinking clearly of late, this whole Paris Hilton situation is just so very sad!!!!! Now I hear she is going back to jail, and for the full 45 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh the humanity!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Lew

June 8, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Greg-Are you from New Hampshire? I live in Vermont, about 35 minutes from Hanover and Dartmouth.

By The Grinch

June 8, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

To whoever asked about seeing the Amanda Beard pics, no I haven’t yet. I’m dying to hear if she’s got enough of a sense of irony to have a wood floor. :-)

By Lee

June 8, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Efrim

You had to know the verbal abuse you were going to take on that question. Sometimes I can’t tell if you want to get the bloggers stirred up (I have to admit I like to sometimes) or if you are truly the most pessimist blogger making Braves posts.

By Randy

June 8, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

ESPN Classic is showing select Clemens outings on its Flame Throwers show. The two games they are showing: ‘99 World Series and 2005 NLDS, the 18-inning game.

I am in pain.

By A-ville Ranger

June 8, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

I agree with those who think best player available is the way to go in the draft.The NFL and NBA drafts are crap-shoots.The MLB draft is closer to a lottery ticket (not pick, ticket as in long odds).Look back at the list of 1st round picks over 20 years,it ain’t a pretty thing.Also going by current needs is folly since these guys likely won’t play in Atlanta for many years (if at all) and who can say what the needs will be then ? If there’s a college player that looks advanced say a Jake Peavy type I’d certainly give weight to that over a hs kid who history shows to be a higher risk with a potentially longer road to the show.

By flange1

June 8, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Hey Lew,

That is what I read as well.

I am a bit tired of the Salty trade talk. I was at the game a couple of nights back and Salty looked pretty raw behind the plate. He had a chence to throw out 3 runners, 2 were regulat steals and 1 was a pitch out and his throws were awful on all three. Screwballs that almost took out the pitcher, bounced into the runners and got away from the fielder in all 3 instances. His footwork was slow, his thows were rushed, NOT GOOD.

I knew Grinch and others saw his gun the first time he caught and I was looking forward to watching the cannon personally. I actually had 5th row seats, and I wasn’t too impressed.

But it was 3 throws in 1 game that the Braves looked like they could not beat a 12 year old all star team, so I can’t make a judgement based on that.

It would be nice to see a blowout tonight. But it is thundering here in the ALT right now, I would rather see it rain!!!

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

I hear you again on the Salty/Marte thing, but where did you come up with that the payroll is not as tight now? Remeber Furcal left leaving his $6 million, we traded Marte for Edgar plus cash.

I do remember when Time Warner owned the Braves and set them up for sell when Furcal was a free agent. Very tight payroll back then. I also read all the reports of this current sale when it was completed and Terry saying the payroll won’t change (i.e. we’re in the same situationas Marte) and has a possibility of going up (i.e. we are in a better situation than Marte). Liberty also said they had vested interest in having a competitive product. And then we signed Smoltz to an extension at 14 million a year or something like that without taking anyone off the books. Those things say to me the payroll situation isn’t as tight as it was. And if it is, then we are in the same situation as Marte which would still lead me to believe JS will not change his plan. For Marte we recieved Renteria AND CASH. Why all the sudden we must lower our sights I’m not sure.
On the other point, yes, I do not think Salty will be traded until this winter if he is going to be traded at all. I think Salty’s stay on this team depends in part on AJ’s contract. I think this because Salty is an applicable replacement bat. But even then, he could be used in a trade to acquire a replacement bat.
On that note, if Salty were traded mid season, why on earth would he be traded for prospects? If JS were to trade him midseason, it’d be for an impact major league player. But I doubt it would happen.

By journalist jimmy smith

June 8, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

feeling better, now. waiting for the new blog to break a story.

jeepers is a good choice for scoots but not for most bloggers represented here. golly, gee, jeepers, all are in poor taste on a blog unless used in concert with yikes.

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

DOB… I left out the at home part of my Francoeur point. Thakns for picking up what I dropped bro.

By Greg O.

June 8, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

I’m from Connecticut and have worked at Quinnipiac for the last two years, so I’ve seen Randy Gress play quite a bit the last two years - pretty good power for an infielder, but probably not a huge ceiling - as you’d expect from an 18th round pick.

By TennesseePaul

June 8, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Efrim: Yes. Check out the Dodgers last season (in late July). Went on a losing run of 14 out of 15 then turned around and won 15 out of 16. It’s baseball. After this series, there will be some where in the neighborhood of 95 games left to play.
Nevertheless, I’d rather see them win.

By Yars

June 8, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

I can’t help but wonder if Schuerholz is happy about the platoon in LF. Diaz/Harris is getting the job done, but the negative is that neither one has any power, & Harris’s bat will eventually cool off. I, like so many of you, believe that Schuerholz needs to fix the starting rotation. Chucky James pitched a great game last night, but the offense was cold with the exception of Andruw. It now looks like the Phillies are making the NL East a 3 team race, and too many teams to name are in the hunt for the wildcard. We can’t keep telling ourselves it’s still early. Remember last season? The all-star break is just around the corner, & I wouldn’t be surprised if teams like the Mets, Phils, Padres, Dodgers, D’Backs, Cubs, & Brewers make a trade that could either make or break their playoff chances. The Reds are a team that are about to unload a lot of players. (Arroyo, Dunn, Griffey) Perhaps Thor will be given a few more weeks to prove he can handle 1B on a daily basis. I still don’t know what to expect out of Davies, the LF platoon is producing now, but will it be producing in late July? I have a lot of faith in Chucky James, but Cormier & Davies are not pitching up to their capabilities. I will give Cormier the benefit of the doubt, being he has been hurt. Why do I think of Redman whenever Cormier takes the mound nowadays? Let’s hope Chipper can come back in the next week or so, and Andruw really needs to step it up. I’d have to say that Kelly Johnson is by far, the most exciting player on the Braves to watch. You just never know what to expect when he’s up at bat. Now Playing: Me I’m Not by Nine Inch Nails

By Yars

June 8, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

I can’t help but wonder if Schuerholz is happy about the platoon in LF. Diaz/Harris is getting the job done, but the negative is that neither one has any power, & Harris’s bat will eventually cool off. I, like so many of you, believe that Schuerholz needs to fix the starting rotation. Chucky James pitched a great game last night, but the offense was cold with the exception of Andruw. It now looks like the Phillies are making the NL East a 3 team race, and too many teams to name are in the hunt for the wildcard. We can’t keep telling ourselves it’s still early. Remember last season? The all-star break is just around the corner, & I wouldn’t be surprised if teams like the Mets, Phils, Padres, Dodgers, D’Backs, Cubs, & Brewers make a trade that could either make or break their playoff chances. The Reds are a team that are about to unload a lot of players. (Arroyo, Dunn, Griffey) Perhaps Thor will be given a few more weeks to prove he can handle 1B on a daily basis. I still don’t know what to expect out of Davies, the LF platoon is producing now, but will it be producing in late July? I have a lot of faith in Chucky James, but Cormier & Davies are not pitching up to their capabilities. I will give Cormier the benefit of the doubt, being he has been hurt. Why do I think of Redman whenever Cormier takes the mound nowadays? Let’s hope Chipper can come back in the next week or so, and Andruw really needs to step it up. I’d have to say that Kelly Johnson is by far, the most exciting player on the Braves to watch. You just never know what to expect when he’s up at bat. Now Playing: Me I’m Not by Nine Inch Nails

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Doug, I’m not sure that It all comes down to who do you like more, Escobar or Salty?

That is to say, it seems to me that the Yunel-Salty options aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive.

Welcome back Greg! You haven’t missed much … we had many of these same discussions last year and it wouldn’t surprise me none to see them again next … I’m saving all mine for future use.

Jeepers MEB, I hate to be picky but it’s the guy’s holding the bats that need awakening … the bats themselves appear to be fine, except when shattering and becoming instruments of death!

I’m reminded of a long time friend … reasonably intelligent, maintaining a 4.0 throughout college without much effort before entering Harvard Law.

He lasted about four months … not because he couldn’t handle the material, but because he had never learned to compete … he was devastated and ultimately turned to Actuarial Science where the numbers were his friends and seldom talked back.

Like I said, he was reasonably intelligent and could turn the crank with the best of them … still, it was a struggle as there too, the competition was stiff and he had to learn to compete … he wasn’t a loser, not even at Harvard, but it was only after he had paid his dues that be became a winner.

Like Scoots said, osmosis has a magical effect on some but is only a dollar word to others … jeepers, did Scoots say that? … I think so … but if he didn’t I will.

By MBATL

June 8, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Shaun, if we’re gonna trade prospects for prospects, why not keep Salty and put Elvis Andrus on the market for some top-notch AA/AAA pitching?

Andrus is behind Renteria, Escobar and Lillibridge. He may turn out to be better than any of them, but he really hasn’t shown it so far. But, he’s still a “5-Star” prospect at Scout.com… the only one we have (including Salty, who’s a 4-star).

The Yankees, for instance, are loaded with minor league pitching, and may need to think about replacing Jeter in 2,3 years… might make sense.

So far, Andrus is riding high as a prospect based on his “tools” but really hasn’t done much. Might make sense to deal him before his stock drops. Or, might not. Just a thought.

By Ron Roberts

June 8, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Saltalamacchia…

…I tell ya what I’d really like to see the Braves do w/him…

…repeat what they did the last time they had a tall, athletic catcher with offensive upside…

…move him to CF (in the minors, first, of course…

Apply a little more pressure on Scott Bor@ss and his under-achieving (thus far, this year) client to A. get it together now and B. play nice with the home team or you’ll find yourself with one less suitor to drive the price up in the offseason.

By Salty

June 8, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

I am a bit tired of the Salty trade talk.

How ya think I feel?!? :-{

By ncscoots

June 8, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Thanks, jimmy (I think). You are correct, however, that in a Shaun-solid 99.3% of the time, “jeepers” is not standalone-capable. More complementary, in a cheesy, old-school, kinda etymological sort of way, to wit:

“Jeepers, could we get Thorman to shave his head, wear his socks high, and sacrifice a chicken, or something? Anything to get his bat going! Yikes!”

Not saying that’s the only acceptable use, of course…only an example :-)

By Wayne in Utah

June 8, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Woodward and Orr I too am frustrated with the production we are getting out of our utility infielders. The problem we have is there are not any other great choices out there for us, unless they are in our system. Both players have done better in the past, so I would hope they might improve.

When Chipper comes back (or if we find another infielder available via trade, or if we promote another minor leaguer), then it will be decision time. I suspect at that time, Escobar will remain and be a super utility guy and Woodward will be the bench guy who can play almost anywhere, albeit not exceptionally anywhere. Orr will either be released or sent to Richmond, if there is a place for him.

I am excited about several of our guys at AAA level: Lillibridge and JC Holt. I think Lillibridge can handle several positions, but I am not sure about Holt, who plays primarily 2B.

Anyone else have any insider info on these two guys.

And, for those who would have Woodward run out of town on a fast rail, please remember, he is just a utility infielder, not supposed to be a long term replacement for anybody. Late inning double switches and ocassionaly rest day for the starters. It is not an easy thing to do, as I have been told.

Whaddya think???

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

Cato as a consul, you will always reign supreme but I fear your counsel that we understand the realities of where we are, and that we be patient … is not apt to be heeded … tis the Ides of June … no, that’s still 5 days away.

By ncscoots

June 8, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I must admit, that’s something I had not even considered, re moving Elvis. Course, my first reaction was “Are you MAD, sir?”, LOL! My second, however, was “Well, wait a sec, let me think…”

But, after reflection, I’d probably be more inclined to move the guy in the middle, Lillibridge. Andrus is so young and has so much upside that he could be worth waiting for, even if it takes an extra year in the minors beyond the normal development cycle. And if there’s any inclination to keep Yunel, then Lillibridge is both blocked and pressed.

Unless, of course, any number of about 6 gazillion OTHER things transpire to render any or all of that moot!

By BossLady

June 8, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

I usually scroll through the blog and only read DOB’s commentary. When I saw him referencing to CUTMAN I scrolled all the way back to 8:00 am and read the comments. Why in the world would someone get up that early in the morning with mallus in their forefront? CUTMAN should go to Terrence’s blog and they can exchange negativity. Maybe, CUTMAN is Terrence. Who knows? DOB is one beat writer that keeps a large following of readers, supporters, players and music lovers. Since this is the only really successful blog at the AJC, it will always be targeted by some A$$. Sorry, DOB this type of thing comes with it.

By A-ville Ranger

June 8, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

For those of you who like blue grass music wncw, broadcasting from the NC mountains, has a great program on saturdays.It runs 11 am to 7 pm every sat. To access simply open one of the many fine inter-nets,click on the google,type..wncw in the search box, look on home page to the left side, click listen.The station has expert commentators with good taste.This is a great station for those with broad, eclectic interest in music.It’s on my favorites list.

By MBATL

June 8, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

‘scoots, wonder what we might get for a package of Salty and Andrus? Cain? Lincecum? Cy Young???? Holy Crap!

Kidding, more or less, but neither of those guys has a position with this team, apparently, for the immediate future… just thinking out loud (which is, of course, generally not a wise thing to do).

By biffpocoroba

June 8, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

John Daly’s wife is a bad a*.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 5:17 PM | Link to this

MBATL, I agree that the Yankees are loaded with minor league pitching but they evidently don’t think that much of what they have from a readiness perspective … I guess everybody have their problems.

I’ve heard it said that all we need is a good, old fashioned, come to Jesus prayer meeting … so that we can explain to these boys what’s expected of them!

By Lew

June 8, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this

Scoots-Jeepers, Creepers-I think Lillibridge can play center field as well.

By Ron

June 8, 2007 5:21 PM | Link to this

Everybody Read this and see if this makes great sense or not!!! I think this tells it all, I was thinking about this before I even read from burnofthebat.com a few days ago:

**Signability is always an issue in the draft. It’s what caused the Padres to make maybe the worst #1 pick ever in 2004 when they picked Matt Bush, unheralded SS out of a San Diego High School, and paid him a $3.15 million signing bonus. They did this to avoid paying the $4.4 million that Jered Weaver got from LAA, or the $5 million Stephen Drew received from the Diamondbacks. Why were they able to predict higher signing bonuses and more guaranteed money for these guys, who were not coincidentally better prospects who have both reached the big leagues? Both were represented by Scott Boras.

Frankly, I don’t understand the signability issue. Last season, Ian Kennedy fell to the Yankees at #21, and they signed him for $2.25 million, which is at least $500,000 more than each of the previous 9 picks. The Yankees p** $500,000, and they’re willing to invest it in young talent that may give them three seasons of MLB production for close to the league minimum. If it doesn’t work out, it’s a hell of a lot less financially damaging than spending $40 million on 19 starts from Carl Pavano.

Sure, projecting amateur talent is a bit of a crap shoot. For that reason, I can see passing on a second-tier prospect because of his affiliation with Boras, when you can get a similar guy represented by someone else for a half-million less. But when we’re talking about an elite prospect, this year’s David Price, Matt Wieters, Josh Vitters, Rick Porcello, etc., you ought to pony up the cash and sign him. Justin Upton got $6.1 million in 2005 and even I was like wtf, but so far he is absolutely mashing AA pitching at the age of 19. If that $6.1 million stretches itself over 3 league minimum years in his prime, and then the D-Backs get 3 cost-controlled arbitration years, it looks pretty good in retrospect. If he flames out, which is still entirely possible, then they eat the $6.1 million that they likely would have spent in a hyper-inflated free agent market where they can’t compete for elite talent to begin with.

I think most middle market teams are realizing this, as evidenced by the Royals’ selection of Luke Hochevar in 2006 and Upton’s record-setting deal in the previous year. But now it seems the Orioles are thinking about passing on Wieters if he falls to #5 because of his Boras affiliation. I don’t think he will, but still, that’s pretty ludicrous to me. Hey, maybe they’ll save $4 million to go sign another middle reliever. Or Corey Patterson**

Hell we spent almost 3 Million bucks this winter on two guys that were released in Wilson, and Redman!!! If we are in a situation like that we have to give them the money because you basically get 6 Major Leagues of service and 2 or 3 years of minor league service for what 4 to 12 million signing bonus, I know the Braves dont have all that money, but still getting a possible great player with a high bonus would be worth it!!! I think we had a chance to draft Rick Porcello with the 33rd pick, and we did not do it, he suppose to be a great starting pitcher, I think he was still available!!!

By Caleb

June 8, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

Not to look ahead too far, but with how the Braves have hit left-handers this year, thankfully we’re not going to have to face Johan Santana in Minnesota next week. That could’ve been ugly.

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

22oz, “I didn’t know we had lost that many” … don’t take it the bank that Bobby doesn’t know … though effective managing doesn’t necessarily demand such awareness. He may not know the number but my guess is he has an opinion as to what caused each and every one.

I just wish we’d see the same starting eight several days in a row …especially in the infield where player interactions are so important.

Isn’t it strange that when you think too much about winning streaks, you lose … and when you think too much about losing streaks, you lose … I suppose it doesn’t pay to think too much … advice obviously followed by too many of us.

Time for a hot tub … let’s try to win one!

By efrim

June 8, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Lew

Regarding your 3:19 Post.

Who says the Phillies pitching is that much worse than ours?

Since the first three weeks of the season (April 20th)

Braves 22-23 Mets 25-18 Phillies 27-18

I don’t know what to tell you man. I’m not crazy about Eaton, Garcia, Moyer and Lieber. But are they that much worse than Davies, Cormier, and James???

Regarding those records since April 20th I posted. Please do not bring up Chipper’s health. Phillies had Ryan Howard on the DL.

The Braves are playing worse as the season goes on. That is why I am worried about their playoff chances. I understand that it is early and there is 100 games to be played. But these problems that they have, will continue for the forseeable future. Why should I think different?

By David O'Brien

June 8, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

Just asked about Sturtze and Bobby said he still isn’t throwing in games yet. He obviously had another setback, that would tell me. But all you need to know for now is, he ain’t in the picture, probably not before the All-Star break….

Oh, and Bobby said he plans to bring up a position player for the Minnesota series. Wouldn’t give any clues as to who it might be. He also said he has no fallback plan if Smoltz can’t go Sunday, which tells me he’s either not being entirely truthful or he fully expects Smoltz to start.

OK, NEW BLOG IS UP! Please go fill it with witty banter. We like witty banter.

By JasonInMaine

June 8, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Of course, you are right and I am wrong. Sorry. Billy Beane is wrong as well. For the record, he also contributes Oakland’s success to drafting college players and players that will have shorter development life cycles. As a matter of fact their first 14 picks this year were college players as were 18 out of their first 19.

Again, I am not saying that it works in every situation. But, you can’t possibly tell me that on average a 17 yr old high school player is going to be ready to contribute as soon as a 22 yr old mature college player. Sorry, but you are wrong if you think so.

I think the team’s situation dictates how they draft. Oakland is a prime example. We aren’t going to agree, so no biggie.

I enjoy sharing opinions and having intelligent conversations about them. I appreciate your retort and reply as there were no “idiot”, etc. And, like I said, I could be way off…I just happen not to think so (:

Let’s get the bats rolling and get a freaking W tonight!!

Regards,

Jason

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

These signing bonuses being mentioned blows my mind!

I know absolutely nothing about the Draft except that I was one who was drafted and served … so I guess I signed but nobody told me about no bonus.

I seems like this is an area where owners could take a stand that might make a difference … I’ve actually so thought for a long, long time. Instead, they continue to hoist us on their petard!

If a youngster gets drafted, he should have the choice of either signing or no … if he so chooses, let him report to camp and go through basic training for minimal immediate reward … no wonder draftees don’t appreciate anything … let them earn it … I always did love houseman’s voice … their reward is the opportunity to prove themselves … not gold for lining the pockets of agents or immediate payment for their autograph.

If they don’t want to do it … that’s fine … there are others that will … let ‘em go to school or work at Arby’s.

These boys aren’t members of the union … yet. The owners have more time and options than they.

A fool and his money are soon parted … it’s our money … but the kids are also being fooled.

Yes, it’s tomfoolery, this notion that unions are needed to safeguard the interests of the players … that’s very important but surely there are better ways to so do. MLB should devote its energies to slaying this dragon and bringing normalcy back to the game … it’s totally out of control.

Give me a bonus and I’ll stop posting … David has my email adress and I’ll sign!

It’s a house of cards … when you shift the wealth to promoters, agents and gladiators … you’re apt to become the main attraction at the Coliseum.

By v

June 8, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

good to see lance getting off to a good start……..

By Bob, Journalist

June 8, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

I’ll stick around … nothing much wrong with Dero after last time … rather good damage control at that.

Marshall’s a big dude!

By Rick Roberts

June 8, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Enough is enough—heads should roll! I’ve been a staunch Braves fan since 1953, but watching this team now is embarrassing—and no excuses should be accepted. Losing is accepted right now as it has been for several years—always saying we’re just in a slump—it’ll turn around. Baloney! Bobby Cox had better light some fire and JS had better get rid of some guys and play others. Accept losses now and, before your know it, we’re 15 games out! That happened last year. Sure we’ve had injuries, but so has every team. JS—get rid of Andrew and get some guys in here who can hit and want to play; Bobby, don’t be loyal to a fault—play the kids and sit the vets or have them sent down! Shake this team up no matter what it takes before we are out of it—the NL East is too tough a division and we are just lucky right now that other teams have slumped. The Mets are ready to take off; the Phils will move; and the Marlins are just better than the Braves. Bobby—you never ‘manufacture’ runs—what are you thinking about? If you don’t want to do it, then retire! Enough is enough. And, Chipper, you’re always hurt—why not just admit you’re older and out of shape—just retire! Trade Thorman and Orr to Toronto for pitching—they are Canadians and will do well there; put Salty at 1B; Kelly is good at 2B; Edgar is the only vet on the field playing hard; Escobar at 3B or, Willie Harris; Diaz in LF; Willie Harris CF; and Franceour in RF; with McCann C. Smoltz is a tough veteran, pitching when hurt; Huddy, well, has mental problems—he thinks too much; Chuck is a competitor; Davies—well, just send him down—he isn’t that good; Lance just doesn’t have the stuff needed; Wick and Soriano are great; send Paronto out immediately—he is terrible; Oscar is okay as is Moylan; McBride should stay down until he can throw strikes; and just don’t baby anyone. If they cannot cut it, then find another home for them. Shake this team up and you’ll see immediate improvement. Maintain the status quo and we’re done. I’m tired of all the coddling that goes on with our players. Plus, we have a lot of talented younger players—our minor league system is one of the tops in MLB. Young players give you effort—fans like to see effort and progress.