AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2007 > June > 10 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USChipper takes batting practice
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You thought the win last night was good news, folks? Because the Braves finally broke their four-game losing streak? Well, I’ve got some more for you: Chipper was on the field taking batting practice just now, and saying shortly thereafter depending on how things go, he could be back as soon as Tuesday when the Braves start a series against the Twins.
And even if he has to take it slower than that, he said he hopes no later than Cleveland, which is Friday.
“I’ll probably come in early tomorrow before we leave to go to Minnesota, take some more batting practice from both sides, see how it feels,” Jones said. “Depending on that I guess we’ll make a decision on Tuesday. If it feels good enough to go, I want to get back in there. If I’m still feeling pain, I’ll probably wait another couple days.” “I really hope it’s soon on this road trip,” Jones said. “But at the very latest maybe Cleveland.”
Chipper saw a hand specialist Saturday and came out of the hand splints he’s been wearing for five days. He took groundballs and did a little throwing Saturday, but the big test was with the bat. And he took his first steps toward answering that Sunday, first by hitting off a tee, then hitting against coaches on the field.
Jones hit from both sides, including the left, which gives him more pain on the follow-through.
“I don’t feel any pain going to the ball, it’s mostly on the follow through left-handed,” Jones said.
“It’s still a little tender. Right-handed I feel ok. My bat is slow - you take two weeks off, the ball is not coming off the bat the way you want it to. The main thing is being able to get in there and look at something coming at you and take swings.”
Jones said he is going to get some pads put in his batting gloves to help absorb some of the shock. But he’s coming away encouraged right now.
“My bat speed is really slow, but I was happy with the way it held up,” Jones said.
Brian McCann gets the night off tonight. Bobby said he wanted to give McCann two days off, and with the off day Monday that would give McCann’s left ankle a chance to get an extended rest.
It dawned on me driving to the ballpark this afternoon: did DOB really want today off to make a presentation on blogging to the Georgia Sportswriters Convention? Or was it more about the finale of the Sopranos. Hm.
It’s all right. I might be the only one in America not into that show. Don’t have HBO. So I might as well be here. And yes, you good readers have helped make Dave quite the trailblazer in our industry. So give yourselves a pat on the back.
And thanks to those who responded to my plea
for comments on watching the draft. Y’all did great. And I’m giving a shoutout to Roy Clark, who came out of the draft room Friday in the middle of making 50 gazillion picks, to help keep AJC readers well informed.
And lastly, did you catch the SportSouth spotlight on Jeff Francoeur last night? His baseball life story? Not sure if I’m supposed to be plugging TV on this here blog, but it’s definitely worth catching. Think it’s on again tonight at 11, Monday at 1 p.m. and Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Clearly Katy Temple will be picking up our next dinner tab on the road. But hey, it’s well done.
Comments
By Todd A
June 10, 2007 7:02 PM | Link to this
Who believes Tony gets whacked tonight?I think he and Paulie will survive,and Phil will “sleep with the fishes.”What say you,bloggers?
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 7:04 PM | Link to this
It looks like Jeff Gordon got lucky with the rain and will win the Pocano race.When you’re good the luck seems to follow.
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 7:05 PM | Link to this
That’s great news on Chipper! Gotta get the win tonight to gain another game on the Muts. If CDhipper is back Tuesday the momentum will be there to get on a roll.
By Mike
June 10, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this
thats great news about chipper thanks carrol…its not over yet folks, as bad as the braves have played the last few weeks if they win tonight they are only 2 and half games back of the mets after they lost to the tigers today…Think about everything that has gone wrong so far, the injuries to hampton, gonzalez, chipper, mccann, smoltz, cormier, and the horrible starts by Andruw Jones and Kyle Davies…This team has still hung in there and guess what they’re going to get healthier..chipper is going to come back, mccann and smoltz are going to heal, hopefully Escobar stays with the big club, and Andruw Jones is not going to hit 220 for the entire season…It just won’t happen, hes to great a player and has to much pride, he really stepped up last night when the braves needed a win and i expect him to play closer to that level the rest of the season…As for Tim Hudson, I definitley dont expect him to be roughed up like last year or like he has been the last 3 or 4 starts with the exception of Milwaukee, but he may not be the kind of pitcher that he was in april…I sure hope he is but if he is only in between what he was in april and what he was in may, while being a tad closer to his april form that should be enough…15 or 16 wins with a 3.30 era should be plenty good if smoltz continues to do his thing and chuck james continues to make strides…Davies probably is going to be hit or miss the rest of the season but that won’t be the difference between the braves making the postseason and not making it…I do think Lance Cormier is much better than he showed in the two cubs starts…They may have rushed him back to quickly…You can tell that he knows how to pitch…Anyways I am still optimistic about the rest of the season. I think the Braves have seen their worst early and have hung in there and now things will be falling into place
By AMG
June 10, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this
I don’t have HBO either … you are not alone.
Good chance for the Braves to showcase some of their young talent on a nationally televised game.
By Chop Chop
June 10, 2007 7:32 PM | Link to this
Congrats to DOB for the hard work. If he ever wins a cash award for his hard work, he can split it up among the denizens here.
Fifteen-cent checks are worth framing, aren’t they?
By dc
June 10, 2007 7:33 PM | Link to this
The Braves’s need Chipper back and for andrew to get going. Tony might live. but the Soprano’s will die tonight. They gave us a good run though. Just like the Brave’s did.
By Carolina Lady
June 10, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this
Sopranos? I was always an alto.
By Bob, Journalist
June 10, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this
A-Ville Ranger, the one who said he’d rather be lucky than good … only said it because he was good!
He was also known to have said that skill puts you in position to win, luck seals the deal.
Speaking of seals, I give my approval to the Braves’ winning big tonight … it would not be at all unseemly for them to so do; given that it’s on ESPN!
I wonder if it’s blacked out here in Nashville?!
By Wickman Fan
June 10, 2007 7:44 PM | Link to this
I just watched Queen’s video “We are the Champions” on YouTube. I want to see Smoltz, The Jones Boys, Bobby and the “Baby Braves” in slow motion being shown jumping up and down in umm October/November this year. 12 yrs is too long. It is time to bring home a CHAMPIONSHIP, Braves! ATL needs it! Ok, I am going to get another beer.
By MBATL
June 10, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this
Carroll, thanks for the update on CJ. I really enjoy the reporting you do on the Braves.
I hope Chipper will take it as it comes, not rush it. We need him for the next four months, not the next four days.
You mention the “trail blazing” of this blog… of course, there’s little Pulitzer material here, but it is a pretty active forum for discussing Braves B’ball. I’ve tried to find Mets, Cubs, Phillies blogs to infiltrate (and destroy, of course), and never really found any that seem consistently active. How unique is this blog? Seems to me that there aren’t many better, supporting any team.
Of course, Dave would be way too modest to talk about the blog’s success. Of course.
But I really am wondering - anyone know? Are there any team-oriented baseball blogs out there that rival this one?
By Coach
June 10, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this
In case no one has seen the final score: Detroit 15 Mets 7 and Kansas City 17 Philadelphia 5. Our two division rivals both got blown out today , hopefully the Braves can take advantage of the situation and pick up another game.
By Larry
June 10, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this
All I can say is I hope you feel well enough soon. The team misses you, it’s obvious, but my fantasy teams…boy, they really need you.
By Greg in TN
June 10, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this
Evening denizens…
Thanks for the update Carroll, aka Miss Baseball (don’t worry Carroll, no crown or scepter to have to carry through the press box to the look of wonder from your fellow scribes).
Did anyone catch highlights from Comerica today? Couldn’t tell if it was a baseball game or a Hitchcock remake with all the birds all over the place. Tigers get the TD and 2-point conversion.
If you told me after the week we’ve had on the diamond that we have a chance to gain a game on the mets, I’d have to shake my head and have my hearing checked, but I’ll take it.
Great news on Chipper’s progress. I think as dysfunctional as the offense has been lately (last night’s 9-run outburst aside), Chipper will go a long long way toward bringing us back to more consistency. I also think the extra rest for B-Mac will do a world of good at this point in the season.
Coming up on ten minutes to first pitch at the Ted.
By AMG
June 10, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this
The Mets must not have a blog… they are always showing up here.
ESPN game … I wonder if Andruw has a big game tonight… people with money may be watching.
By Chop Chop
June 10, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this
Here are some clips for the denizens to peruse:
Glory Days
For Met-haters, here’s a clip for ya…
Step Right Up And Beat The Mets
Gotta love YouTube…
By Meanie
June 10, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this
Correction, AMG. Mutts bloggers are unlikely to show up tonight after their ace got shelled in a 15 run explosion. You heard it here first, folks- the Mets’ pitching has been exposed recently and they will struggle to play .500 ball the rest of the year. Remember Glavine’s first two years up there? He adjusted last year, now the league is adjusting save the Braves who see left-handed pitches about as well as mosquitoes. I’ll put the Mutts at 85 wins give or take. Only question is whether we’ll be any better than that. DOB is right, this thing is winnable.
By ernesto
June 10, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this
My pre-game prediction? No matter what happens tonight we won’t be hearing from No-Class Zone, Metman, or assorted other Met idiots after the Tigers hung 15 on them today. Let’s take a game back!
By RedandBlackAttack
June 10, 2007 8:08 PM | Link to this
I would like for Chipper to take more time. If he has to put padding in his glove and his hands are still bothering him on the follow through, then he needs to settle down some more. I agree, the Bravos need Chipper for the rest of the season and not just for tomorrow. The real question we all should be thinking about is who will be hitting the road once Chipper is activated on the roster? Will it be Woodard or Orr? Surely, Escobar has seen the last of the minors. He can play. And, a lot better than Orr or Woodard. Gooo Braves!!!
By ernesto
June 10, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this
and the Royals (???????) hung what 15 or 17 on hte Phils.
Marlins lost too. Let’s get a W
By Braveheart
June 10, 2007 8:12 PM | Link to this
Great writing, great updates, Carroll.
DOB asked out of the lineup tonight? What, did Bobby hit him sixth or something?
By journalist jimmy smith
June 10, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this
look who’s talking seals … perhaps baby seal should pay a visit to nashville. baby seal insists on going to washington again in search of the great seal of the united states. no matter what jimmy smith says, baby seal is determined to go. may see langerhans while there. now, baseball … journalist just muted joe morgan and is listening to skip caray. all is well. and this is good news about chipper and the thumbs - sounds like a rock group. thumb health is important in baseball but but toe health is essential. it is very perceptive of dob to point out that it is sore toes that should be of greater concern. and who will fit chipper’s batting gloves with the little pads? and what kind of pads will be used? well, carlyle got soriano out so carlyle is ahead of most of this staff.
By Bob, Journalist
June 10, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this
Poor Tommy … he’s 5-4 … what did he give up today … I can’t remember but think it was 11 hits and nine runs.
Hopefully it’s just me, but following that little peek at peter, I think he looked a bit peaked.
Surprise, surprise … Who’s still on first! Unfortunately, Matt’s not.
By MEB
June 10, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this
I wonder how much cheese was consumed at the Georgia Sportswriters banquet? I’m sure there was an impressive layout and that everyone had a huge time.
Enquiring minds want to know if DOB had a date for the affair? Was this event worthy of a tux or was it just coat and tie? Who was DOB wearing? Was it JC Penny or Dillards? So many questions to blog about.
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this
Escobar will learn you can’t be passive with the glove at third.
By MBATL
June 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
So, according to Gammons, Lou Pinata ordered Dereck Lee to conduct a “players only” meeting to find out if he (Pinata) had lost command of the team. The answer, apparently, was, “No, coach, the guys support you.” Except for the guys not playing much, who complained that they weren’t, uh, playing much.
And now, the Cub players hear on national tv that Lee conducted the meeting on Pinata’s command… how much cred does he maintain?
Throw Bobby Cox to the curb if you want. I’m just glad that I don’t hear this kind of soap opera material about the Braves.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
Yunel needs 3 hits tonite to make up for that error, else he could be sent down when Chipper returns.
By Bob, Journalist
June 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
I know it was an error but I thought Yunel played that well … post oops!
By SteelCav
June 10, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this
Buddy is popping the mitt tonight. Will we see retribution?
By Greg in TN
June 10, 2007 8:20 PM | Link to this
Good first inning from Buddy Carlyle. Looked like Escobar was a little surprised by that hop off the bat of Derrick Lee.
Let’s get some runs on Lilly!
By Chop This
June 10, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
Grinch, if you’ve got any friends with HBO, you’d better hightail it over to their house, because there’s no way you’re going to be able to avoid hearing how “The Sopranos” ends. It’s going to be all over the TV, Internet and newpaper starting at 10:06 p.m. tonight. Even this blog will probably be half-Braves, half-Sopranos at that time.
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this
God I hate those Sunday home uniforms the Braves wear. They could could only look more rediculous if they had blue pants, red stockings & white shoes.
Any throwback uniforms on the calander this year?
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this
Meanie I can’t feel good about Glavine getting hammered.He is still family.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this
Steelcav - - you called it!
By N8
June 10, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
Nice call Robert.
Looks like we could have ourselves a brawl tonight.
Pinella stands there shrugging, like…..”what?”
This could get “fun”.
By SteelCav
June 10, 2007 8:25 PM | Link to this
Yep, that was payback. Ok, hopefully, that’s squashed.
By bocabrave
June 10, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this
goodbye lilly, goodbye lilly, goodbye lilly, etc. Hudson is a genius and one of the guys on this team with balls of steel.
By bocabrave
June 10, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
allllright edgar!!!
By N8
June 10, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
Hey. Yippy for us.
LHP is out of the game. LOVE IT!
I have to say though, as a fan of the pitchers being allowed to take what is rightfuly theirs (the plate), I’m not a fan of kicking Lilly out, without warnings being given.
LOVE IT. Renteria tries to knock the guy out at 2B.
THIS IS GONNA BE GREAT!
Put on your helmets, fasten your seatbelts. It’s war.
By TennesseePaul
June 10, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
OUTSTANDING GAME SO FAR! Love the fire! Love Renteria’s slide. This is baseball.
By BRAVES FOREVER
June 10, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this
I don’t know how this is great news,the sales at dunkin donuts,krspy-cream,and mcdonalds in the atlanta area,will take a hard blow in sales,as soon as fat dipper decides he wants to play again. as soon as he hit the hard carpet in minn. guess what all of a sudden his poor acking feet will act up.WHATS WRONG WITH THE WAY THE KID THEY BROUGHT UP TO PLAY WHILE DIPPER HAS BEEN ON VACATION,AT LEAST HE’S PICKING UP GROUND BALLS.PLEASE DIPPER FOR THE GOOD OF THE TEAM TAKE YOUR MONEY,GLOVE, AND BAT AND JUST GO HOME, YOU’VE HAD A GOOD RUN BUT NOW IT’S OVER,YOU WILL GET PAID LONG AFTER YOU STOP EMBARRSING YOURSELF.
By mr baseball
June 10, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this
The umpire who threw Lilly out of the game needs to be suspended by MLB, but you know that will never happen. What he did is beyond pathetic and is an example of the arrogance of officials in sports who think they control what transpires on the field. Their job is to enforce the rules, not to determine the outcome of the game. What an a$$.
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this
It looks like Edgar had a pi$$ and vinegar pre game drink.
By Greg in TN
June 10, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
This has all the feel of one of those classic tilts from the 80s. Like Claudell Washington charging Mario Soto or Kurt Bevacqua chasing Pascual Perez to the Braves dugout and instead running into Bob Horner with a cast on his wrist.
The late Gordon Solie would be enjoying this game tonight.
By MEB
June 10, 2007 8:33 PM | Link to this
Carroll… looks like you picked a good game to sub for DOB. Edgar is playing with some attitude now. Ya gotta love that slide into second. Been a long time since I’ve seen one like that. I hope this translates into some runs tonight.
GO BRAVES!!!
By PhillyGirl
June 10, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this
Props to Renteria.
By brent a.
June 10, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this
Okay, so I’m in a hotel with no DVR, and there are no commercials during the Soprano’s.
Gotta find out what happens, but I’d hate to miss a fight in the ATL.
Go Braves!
By Jason
June 10, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this
Wow what a hit by renteria!!! In the nose of Fontano
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
This game is going to get nasty. I knew it was coming.
Like I said last night just keep the bullpen in the dugout so they are not too winded from sprinting in to be effective in a brawl.
By PhillyGirl
June 10, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Props to Renteria.
By PhillyGirl
June 10, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Props to Renteria.
By Calvin
June 10, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know the record for when the Braves wear their Sunday red?
Btw, nice forearm shiver by Renteria.
By Randy
June 10, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this
Yunel played the ball well (got in front of it), but he’s gotta get rid of that glove pat with the ball before throwing. It was the difference in the play.
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this
bocabrave I’d trade Hudson’s steel balls for one that sinks.
By S Turn
June 10, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
Nice slide Edgar
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this
I could be wrong, but it looked to me like the last Lilly pitch hit Renteria in the face with it also getting some hand. Even if it didn’t get him in the head, it was in the area and Edgar had every right to be upset about that. That being said, Edgar just pulled an A-Rod with the play at second - and the last thing we need is him being ejected and/or suspended.
By N8
June 10, 2007 8:39 PM | Link to this
fastasballs
Totally agree with you on the uni’s. They make the powder blues in the 80’s look good.
Alright, I know he had one bad outing, followed by a really good one. But I have to say, Buddy looks darn good so far.
Have we found some help for the rotation?
By Robert
June 10, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
Looks like the Braves are gonna play with fire in their eyes - for four or five games until they feel they have “shown everyone once again”.
Then they will slowly slide back into complacency - busy making sure their tee times arent interrupted and that noone is wearing sunglasses on their cap during bp
They jumped out of the gate 7-1 like this because they felt they werent getting the respect they felt entitled to from the league at large.
On a brighter note, lord knows we need a healthy Chipper back if we’re gonna have any chance of starting another division title streak to make everyone else jealous (yeah, right)
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this
Nice couple of innings by Buddy C. Yes the emotion is there, I love it. Renteria about removed the shortstop’s nose. If that guy was not a rookie a few games removed from the minors the fight would have been on right there.
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 8:43 PM | Link to this
Home Plate Umpire - Jim Wolf, brother of L.A. Dodgers lefty Randy Wolf… apparently that didn’t lead to sympathy for left-handed pitchers.
By Robert
June 10, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this
“I just watched Queen’s video “We are the Champions” on YouTube. I want to see Smoltz, The Jones Boys, Bobby and the “Baby Braves” in slow motion being shown jumping up and down in umm October/November this year”
Wouldnt we all ! But there aint a chance in Hades of that happening unless the team enemizes the retard out of the dugout
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
ADO !!ADO!! Time to watch AJ Soprano get whacked in the cross fire.My boy look what they did to my boy,fa’ged’a’bat’it.
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this
Early prediction based on what I just heard from ESPN’s airing of the home plate umpire’s comments to Ted Lilly and Lou Piniella - Jim Wolf will be suspended for a game or two and all umpires will refuse to wear a microphone ever again.
By Bob, Journalist
June 10, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
We never could get the song right cause my mama always want to sing bass.
Jimmy, I honestly tried to think of a different transition as I know Baby Seal is more deserving but with so many things that should not be named, and having lost my 20 footer, I was left with few choices; not that using left is the right thing to say either.
By Robert
June 10, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
“That being said, Edgar just pulled an A-Rod with the play at second”
What a wonderful move - letting a nationwide ESPN audience see the Braves acting bush
Donk is on center stage and the stench is gonna choke America
By bocabrave
June 10, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
a’ville ranger, agree on hudson’s sinker. but we’ve (at least many bloggers) have been on this team about a lack of fire. what hudson and renteria did shows some fire. my god, they look like they care.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this
Meanwhile, 4 of our first 6 outs have been Ks.
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this
The homeplate umpire just made a fool of himself on national tv. I didn’t know he was wearing a mic, even more reason for him to show his a*&. Let the players take care of it until it starts getting out of hand & then step in if needed.
By Ron
June 10, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Joe Morgan shut the f*** up you piece of sh!t!!!!!!!!! He said why was Hudson not ejected? What a f*** bafoon!!!!!!! There were absolutely NO warnings before Hudson hit Soriano yesterday you f*** MORON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By MEB
June 10, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this
I think Pinella had grounds to go ballistic tonight. The home plate umpire mishandled the situation completely and I bet he will hear about it in the coming days.
Can Thorman look any worse at the plate? Craig Wilson wasn’t this bad… was he?
By N8
June 10, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
Isn’t it nice to know that if any of the Cub’s hitter’s decide to charge the mound, that Salty is back there to be the “first on the scene?”
That’s one BIG boy, that I’m not sure I’d grapple with.
By Meanie
June 10, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this
This unwritten rule crap is just that, a crock of crap. The rules absolutely require an umpire to toss the player out if he knows he intentionally threw at a batter. Warnings would be issued if the umpire was unsure in order to prevent retaliation. And speaking of unwritten rules, doesn’t a mythical one exist that prevents a pitcher from throwing at a batter’s head? I’ve seen interviews with players who say that code on the issue is waist down. I personally think it’s all silliness anyway. If you want to kick some guy’s arse cause you think he threw at you then find him after the game and do it right…
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this
Man Edgar is THE man tonight,great play.
By Hedgehog
June 10, 2007 8:55 PM | Link to this
I don’t know how anyone could be proud of Edgar Renteria acting like a street punk.
By Randy
June 10, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this
Ummm, I know it benefited the Braves, but I would expect a little more outrage on Lilly getting tossed. There is no way you toss him there, especially since he’s the starting pitcher and it’s the 1st inning. Baseball has gotten weird.
And though I like seeing Edgar all jazzed up, that slide was questionable. Spikes up is all good, but the forearm is pushing it.
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this
Robert,
If Bobby Cox is worrying about which network is televising the game, he should be fired. But he’s not - only an idiot would think that. Knowing you, you just won’t get it, so I’ll put it in plainer text - YOU ARE A MORON.
By Bob, Journalist
June 10, 2007 8:59 PM | Link to this
I know that I’ll be accused of doing that which should not be named but I truly hope that Robert has an experience … similar to that suggested by Eddie Murphy’s “i can see! … I can walk!” routine in Trading Places … sooner, rather than later.
Regardless of his past or his future, I like Buddy Carlyle’s grit … it’s nice to see someone going after folks!
By Meanie
June 10, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this
Oh yeah I forgot to mention… Jon Miller said a few minutes ago, “Cubs fans have to be asking ,’What else can go wrong this year?’” That’s some funny stuff. Cubs fans been saying that every year for ,oh, the last 80 or so….
By A-Ville Ranger
June 10, 2007 9:00 PM | Link to this
Kelly would be a good #2 if needed.home run to rt.Later all it’s Soprano time.
By SteelCav
June 10, 2007 9:01 PM | Link to this
Atta boy Kelly.
By Greg in TN
June 10, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this
KJ!!!!!
Great play by Renteria on the grounder by Soriano in the top half of the inning.
I too am surprised that Wolf ran Lilly, but I’d be shocked if MLB suspended Wolf and I would also imagine that the umpire’s union would absolutely throw a fit over that.
Nice base knock by Edgar. Easily, he’s one of the big reasons why we are as close to the lead in the East as we are right now.
By MEB
June 10, 2007 9:04 PM | Link to this
Kelly you da man!!! Kelly Johnson and Edgar Rentaria are in a dead heat for the MVP of the Braves so far. Both of them deserve All Star selection.
That slow motion of Edgar sliding into Fontenot is priceless! That is how the bean ball should have been taken care of… on the field.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 10, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this
if the sun-times or tribune writers carry this into the pressbox, let’s be glad carroll is there instead of dob. there must have been a lot of cheese consumed at that meeting today like meb says. probably too much cheese. this journalist likes our chances better with carroll.
now, why does andruw not run when andruw strikes the ball?
By S Turn
June 10, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this
Hey you idiots that keep talking trash about Edgar. It’s baseball, let me know what you would do if someone threw a 90mph baseball at your head.
By Stuart
June 10, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this
I hate how ESPN just licks the sacks of all the cubs. It is sick and I have now muted the channel.
By mr baseball
June 10, 2007 9:12 PM | Link to this
Ron: Typically I disagree with about 90 percent of what Joe “Mr. Conventional Wisdom” Morgan says, but in this case he’s 100 percent right. Even as a Braves fan, it was obvious Hudson was throwing at Soriano last night, and was considerably less obvious that Lilly was throwing at Soriano. After listening to Randy Wolf’s jacka$$ brother display his clairvoyance (and arrogance) to a national audience, I’m guessing his new nickname will be “Kreskin.”
If Piniella protested the game on grounds of an ump confusing himself for a deity, he would have a very strong case.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 9:18 PM | Link to this
Here is Rule 8.0.2(d) of the official rule book:
(d) Intentionally Pitch at the Batter.
If, in the umpire’s judgment, such a violation occurs, the umpire may elect either to:
Expel the pitcher, or the manager and the pitcher, from the game, or
may warn the pitcher and the manager of both teams that another such pitch will result in the immediate expulsion of that pitcher (or a replacement) and the manager.
If, in the umpire’s judgment, circumstances warrant, both teams may be officially “warned” prior to the game or at any time during the game.
Rule 8.02(d) Comment: To pitch at a batter’s head is unsportsmanlike and highly dangerous. It should be—and is—condemned by everybody. Umpires should act without hesitation in enforcement of this rule.
It is that part (comment) that must apply here, because Wolf was heard to say that Lilly had thrown at Edgar’s head, in his judgment.
Not trying to start a big debate - - just citing the rule.
By AMG
June 10, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this
BUDDY … WOW!!
Why was he on his way to AAA????
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 9:22 PM | Link to this
I’ve turned the sound off, I can’t stand Miller or Morgan. Now they are going to talk about the pronunciation of Diaz’s last name the rest of the evening. Remember Miller & Wilson Bait-A-Meat.
Was that Joe Morgan’s a$& on the field earlier or was Andruw getting a new wide screen delivered to the clubhouse?
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
Gotta respect the way Piniella handled himself in the interview - and his team’s struggles this year. The fight in the dugout was unfortunate, but went away about as quickly as it could’ve. I believe his ejection last weekend was purely to wake up his team (and it did). And he also kept his cool tonight, the right move in the first inning a scoreless game. Then, in the interview, he didn’t point fingers or overreact - he just stated facts and didn’t create any further controversy.
By S Turn
June 10, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this
Give up the intent crap Morgan. You guys are right I can handle Miller and Morgan.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 10, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this
better to pinch hit with paris hilton than with woodward. what is taking so long getting brayan pena here? why is woodward still here?
By cwk
June 10, 2007 9:32 PM | Link to this
woodward crashes the party 2nite lets hope renteria is ok
By Calvin
June 10, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this
you think bobby sat Edgar down because of the forearm he gave to that rookie 2nd baseman?
By Braves Fan 79
June 10, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this
Woodward: the master of the strikeout and weak fly out! Man if outs were homers he would be Babe Ruth….
By JasonInMaine
June 10, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this
Is our bench the worst in baseball? Bases loaded and we have to send woodward to the plate…ouch. I rather send up Davies…or waste two players by hitting Willie and putting woodward in the field!
By N8
June 10, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this
Gotta LOVE Woodward being our “best” option if Renteria goes down.
Let’s hope that that AB doesn’t come back to bite us tonight.
Good golly.
Don’t look now, but Buddy has given up ONLY 2 hits in his last 11 IP. OK, as I type that, he gives up a leadoff hit in the 5th inning. LOL!
Still, VERY impressive. Obviously that kind of “pace” cannot (and will not) continue. But I do believe, he deserves another start, and then another and another until he shows that he doesn’t.
By N8
June 10, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
Is the game that Smoltz is talking about, the one where Eddie Perez punched Paul Bird as he was trying to “appologize” to him, when he was batting?
That was classic.
GET THORMAN THE HELL OUT OF THERE!!!!!!!!!!!
First, he has NO RANGE to even come close to knocking down the triple, NOW he pulls a LaRoche by taking his sweet old time.
GO AWAY.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this
Can anyone explain to me how so many Cubs fans are in the field level seats? Aren’t those seats that would be held by Braves season ticket holders?
By chrisklob
June 10, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this
I was away from the TV for a few minutes. Why did Renty come out of the game?
By Randy
June 10, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this
I agree, throwing at the head is dangerous and wrong. Both Hudson and Lilly threw balls that were too close to the head.
By cwk
June 10, 2007 9:42 PM | Link to this
ESPN just licks the sacks of all the cubs
hahahahhahahaha rofl lmao
By MEB
June 10, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this
I think an Alfonso Soriano should be served with a little ketchup, mustard, and relish, hold the onions.
By N8
June 10, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
What a F’n prick! Soriano stands, with his bat in the air and watches the ball…..fall into the glove on the warning track.
I now believe that he should be HIT AGAIN. Because he didn’t get the message last night.
So here we sit. Last half of the inning, bases loaded in a 2-0 game. And Caryy on my “Woodward” Son KILLS THE RALLY! Then the following half inning, Thorman can’t even get a glove on a ball down the line, when he was holding the runner on, THEN falls asleep and fails to get the guy at 1B. If Thorman gets the out at 1B, Soriano’s fly ball ends the inning, with the Braves STILL up 2-1.
This game is on JS, if they lose.
UNREAL.
By journalist jimmy smith
June 10, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this
jimmysmiththinks the braves may need a small-ball run tonight. now, which of these two teams is more likely to score one run if needed? hmmm…
and woodward at least made contact with the ball with the bases loaded. still, the blogger is right, it is sad that woodward is the bench for this team. pinella could make a couple moves and bobby will run out of players. we must wait and see.
By ernesto
June 10, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
Hi, my name is Chris Woodward
Turn ons: grounding out weakly, popping up, whiffing, and at least one meaningless home run a year (or less).
Turn offs: making a difference, earning my paycheck, ducking when things are hurled at me by outraged fans
By JasonInMaine
June 10, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this
Where oh where has Frenchy’s power gone?
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this
Jason - I understand your point about the bench right now without Chipper, but I’d propose keeping Escobar with the big club when Chipper comes back. I think that’d vastly improve the bench. Either Woodward or Orr have to go. I think a bench of Salty, Escobar, Diaz/Willie, and Orr/Woodward wouldn’t be that bad. But in addition to Escobar staying with the big club when Chipper comes back, I’d like to see Brayan Pena back up when/if Orr/Woodward gets the boot. That’d give Bobby Cox more flexibility to use Salty in pinch hitting situations and/or use him at first. And Pena adds another switch-hitting option.
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
It’s back to where it began. Instead of blowing things open last inning the game is tied.
Oh did I mention Woodward still sucks. He’s our best utilityless infielder we have. Orr is just plain useless.
By AMG
June 10, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this
MEB … I agree on Soriano.
eric the elder … you can buy those tickets from the season ticket holders… I’ve done it before several times to get good seats.
Edgar has a hand contusion.
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this
Somebody post a Sopranos report, it’s getting near the end. I don’t have HBO & don’t want to wait and have my brother-in-law take 3 hours to explain to me what happend in an hour & five minute episode.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this
It has taken 5 innings for Joe Morgan to finally admit that the pitch was headed for Edgar’s face.
He also drools over Soriano for not making a fuss about being hit last night, conveniently ignoring the near confrontation on the mound as he was returning to the dugout.
By my count, Jon Miller has made 4 factually incorrect statements so far (such as losing track of the count). I hate it when ESPN gets these games.
By JasonInMaine
June 10, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this
Greg,
I agree with moves you mentioned and they can only serve to improve the team.
Regards,
Jason
By N8
June 10, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this
JasonInMaine
I hear ya, about Francoeur’s power. But you know what? I’ll take his slightly “better” approach of taking the ball the other way and knocking in runs.
Cubs are now up 3-2. Thanx woodward. Thanx Andruw.
Regardless of the outcome, or the runs that have been scored on Buddy the last two innings, he still deserves another start, IMO.
By Coach
June 10, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
alright , get Carlyle out of the game. He got tagged on every ball that was hit in the sixth.
By JasonInMaine
June 10, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
The starter gets tossed after 1 inning and we get to go against a taxed bullpen and we still only have 2 runs…come on offense…what the he!!
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this
AMG, thanks. I know it’s just where the mikes are, but the Cubs fans almost sound like they outnumber the Braves fans.
By Meanie
June 10, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this
Shirley they won’t lose to the Cubs bullpen. And Shirley they’ll score more than two? Oh, and Shirley: Bring me a beer, wouldya?
By fastasballs
June 10, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this
Does anyone else think it’s a bad idea to let Buddy throw another inning? I know he had a short 6th, but he is getting a lot of pitches up in the zone.
By ernesto
June 10, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this
How long are we going to carry Woodward? It’s not like he’s in a funk or has been hot and cold…he’s sucked like it was something to be proud of since day one. I mean when does he get the “Wilson”???
By brent a.
June 10, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this
Steve Perry’s voice brings tears to my eyes … :)
By JasonInMaine
June 10, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this
N8,
You are correct…Frenchy is still producing.
But, it says a lot about our team that Thor is still getting all the starts at 1B. The offense needs to wake the heck up.
Regards,
Jason
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Isn’t it getting a little late to let Buddy hit for himself when we’re behind? With 2 outs maybe, but 1 out?
Where’s Willie?
By N8
June 10, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Scott Thorman’s swing makes Klesko’s swing look like Brett Butler slapping the ball around.
How does he NOT have back problems? Oh wait, judging by his infield range, maybe he DOES.
As pitiful as Woodward is (and he is pitiful), I will argue that Thorman’s presence on the team is more negative. He has ZERO range at 1B, he can’t HIT in the clutch, 3 of his 6 HR and 9 of his 25 RBI came in two games. Take those two games away (yeah, I know, you can’t do that, but…), and you have a guy that in the OTHER 168 AB’s, has 3 HR and 16 RBI.
Yikes, is an understatement. THAT is why I believe he hurts the team more than Woodward. Woodward only kills ONE RALLY per night. Thorman gets 3 or 4 shots a game at killing rallies.
Make no mistake. Thorman’s hurting this team more than Woodward is.
By ernesto
June 10, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this
Sweeeeeeeet, here comes Woodward with a chance to tie the game…prove me wrong you waste of a uniform
By Braves Fan 79
June 10, 2007 10:09 PM | Link to this
O GOD>…..WOODWARDS UP AGAIN??????!!!! WHY BOBBY WHY!!!!!
By brent a.
June 10, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
don’t expect any Woodward movement until Chipper returns
just my take
By AMG
June 10, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
Woodward … Woodward… Woodward?
Why … Why … Why?
Good Grief.
By eric the elder
June 10, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this
Why aren’t we pinch hitting for Woodward???
Move Escobar to short and Orr to 3rd.
Where’s Willie? Where’s McCann?
Bobby, look at the score board!!!
By Chad
June 10, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this
Is there a way we can get rid of Woodward? I would prefer use Orr than Woodward since Woodward failed to score men in scoring postion TWICE!
By The Truth Hurts
June 10, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this
Chris Woodward does a bad job of out avoidance.
By Greg O.
June 10, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Playing Devil’s Advocate - Woodward put a good swing on that last line-out.
By Ron
June 10, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
Soprano ALERT:!!!!!!!!!!!!
UHHHHHHH what the Hell just happened at the end, was alot of suspense, did not show nothing when Meadow was running into the restaurant!!!!! Glad nobody got killed except Phil!!!
By journalist jimmy smith
June 10, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this
soon, woodward’s b.a. will be below .200 (maybe tonight). twice woodward has failed with runners on and two outs. with all these dead arms and dead thumbs maybe woodward has a dead bat.
now, it will take a 3-run homer. they are playing right into bobby’s hands.
By N8
June 10, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this
good call fastasballs.
Bobby’s apparently gonna COMPLETELY WASTE a great outing and pull a McGlinchy on him.
By chrisklob
June 10, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
N8, I agree with much of what you say but Woodward IMMEDIATELY proved you wrong about something. He’s killed two rallies tonight.
AND WHY IS BUDDY STILL IN THERE? Come on Bobby and Roger!
By whoo hoo
June 10, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
eric….ever been to a Cubs/Braves game? The Cubs fan usually DO outnumber the Braves fans
By Coach
June 10, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
Dear Cox , DID I NOT TELL YOU TO GET CARLYLE OUT OF THE FRIGGIN GAME ! Just sheer stubborness on the part of Bobby Cox !
By James Adams
June 10, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
Justice!! That was poetic justice for that BS cheap shot by Reteria. The Braves are the biggest bunch of babies. Wait, the home plate ump might throw Fontenot out of the game for hitting a fan with the ball!
By Berigan
June 10, 2007