Braves

By Stephen

June 19, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Sup Dave?

Think the Braves will go after J.C. Romero?

By rupert

June 19, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

caroll, it seems like this team, unlike last years that was pretty much overmatched by the better teams, can play with the red sox, mets, indians, dodgers etc, of the league, their problem seems to be a lack of intensity against everyone else, seems like they crank it up a notch for the big series and that’s great they can do that, but they seem to lack a little focus against the nats or fish, covering the team do you see any truth to this observation? might have something to do with youth, its easy to forget how young this team is, bottom line is that its great they can jack it up because that means they’re capable of making a playoff run, but you gotta take care of the rest of the teams to get there…

By Paladin

June 19, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

DOB: May I have this dance?

By N8

June 19, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

DOB

You know (as well as I do), that I like to “complain” as much as anybody. So, I’ll keep this short and to the point.

The Braves have looked good ALL SEASON against the “elite” (for lack of a better word, with no real dominant team in the NL), teams.

However, it’s the dissapointing showing against the Marlins, Nats, Cubs, Pirates, etc… that have put us in the “hole”, which, as you tell, isn’t too big to overcome…not by a longshot. You could count the Twins in there as well, since they were under .500 before we played them.

So until we show that we can handle the “have nots”, then it really doesn’t matter if this team can “hang” with the Mets.

All that shows me, is that this team is very young, and they “play to theire opponants”. Meaning, they get up to play the Mets, Padres and Red Sox, yet obviously take the Nats and Pirates so lightly that they get blind sided by them.

Can we make the playoffs, or even win the division? Of course we CAN, but the better question is will we?

To be continued….

By DonCoburleone

June 19, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Whats with the italics DOB?

By 2cool

June 19, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

The Braves typify the art of being cool.

To be cool you got to run on heavy heavy fuel favorite Dire Straits song.

By doug

June 19, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Been raining hard in Ala all day. I sure hope they get the game in tonight, because I am still looking forward to the pitching duel. Hudson looked good last time out, and you know he will be trying hard to reverse those ugly trends our blogmeister mentioned above.

By Jersey Gil

June 19, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

DOB…Question for you…Why INDEMAND or MLB/TV show the visitor broadcast intead the home team for braves games….The Indian series was all Cleveland, same with the minnesota …last night was the Boston..I never understand the TV think….When the Braves play here in Phillis all other Tv Channel are block(like TBS or any INDEMAND). Last night i was looking for alternative from those ESPN Guys…even in XM was the Boston Broadcaster.

By doug

June 19, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Been raining hard in Ala all day. I sure hope they get the game in tonight, because I am still looking forward to the pitching duel. Hudson looked good last time out, and you know he will be trying hard to reverse those ugly trends our blogmeister mentioned above.

By lynn

June 19, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

I’ve always liked Andruw but he’s still got a lot of growing up to do. His stubborn approach to hitting kills me. “I’m a pull hitter and that’s just the way it is” doesn’t cut it. I personally think the Braves need a fresh start in center field especially with the price Boras will be asking.

By Ryan

June 19, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Dave, you think there is any real chance the braves go after griffey and maybe one of the Reds starters?

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Rupert, I’ll pass along your post to Carroll.

By GermanBravesFan

June 19, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

DOB: seems like Andruw’s problem is all mental. I read somewhere that he and Terry Pendleton have been working hard on his swing and it seems (from what Pendleton said) that in the batting cages, the swing is fine… I guess it’s (obviously) a different story when he steps up to the plate in a real game. I still think he’ll turn it around, though, and help the Braves during the second half of the season!

As you pointed out earlier: despite all the team’s struggles, the Mets are only 1 1/2 games ahead!

GO BRAVES!!!

By Michael

June 19, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

DOB What’s your take on McBride? Bobby can’t feel comfortable with his performances as of late. Is there any help in the minors from the left side of the mound and what do you think about Romero?

By rupert

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

*DOB not caroll

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 19, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Good Pick on Dale Watson, I’ve heard some of his stuff but don’t have any of his c.d.’s. I like “Country My @$$,” and “A Real Country Song.”

And this one:

I’m too country, now, for country, Just like Johnny Cash, Buck Owens, Faron Young, Johnny Bush, Johnny Paycheck, Charley Pride, Loretta Lynn, mmmmm,….. HELP ME, Merle, I’m breaking out in a Nashville Rash.

By Paladin

June 19, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

DOB: I retract my “pass” at you. At the time I sent it I thought I was going to be your “first”. And, it would be very difficult for any mischief to occur with a walker between us. I’ll just have to wait for another slo dance and u-know-who to arrive.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Stephen, I’m gonna assume you’re related. Otherwise, how could anyone possibly be so excited about a pitcher who cleared waivers, was released, and who last season had a 6.70 ERA in 65 appearances?

By Shaun

June 19, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

In response to your response on the last blog, where did I say Joe D and Ted Williams didn’t hit the ball hard? I never ever said that. But I understand where that thought came from because here’s what I said:

Yes, in Williams and DiMaggio’s days they didn’t strikeout as much but they also didn’t hit the ball as hard.

What I meant was players in those days didn’t seem to wait for a pitch they thought they could handle and swing really hard in case they hit it. They didn’t strikeout as much but they also didn’t hit as many homers.

This is evident in Ted Williams HR numbers. He hit 35 or more five times in 19 seasons, a relative few for a HOF hitter.

Also, concerning Sizemore being more patient than AJ: Thing is Andruw is pretty patient, too. Their walk rates aren’t that far apart.

I think it’s pretty clear that the reason Andruw and Sizemore’s production numbers (AVG/OBP/SLG) look different is because of BABIP. What we don’t know is how much is luck and how much is due to Sizemore doing something to hit the ball more squarely. I think it’s pretty clear that both luck and skill both play a pretty significant roll. My argument would be Andruw’s struggles are due to bad luck a lot more than many of us would like to admit.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 19, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t be to keen on picking up freshley-released pitchers. Romero was released for a reason.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Dave,

Any idea of the contingency plans if they don’t get this game in tonight. Radar looks ugly. Day/night tomorrow or afternoon game on Thursday. I know Red Sox have to play in SD on Friday.

By MBATL

June 19, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

DOB, do you expect a roster move any time soon? I was really surprised (not bothered) to see Bobby use Salty as a PH last night, with no third catcher.

I’ve got a feeling Escobar will be sent down once the Braves are confident that Chipper’s hands are okay. Hope not.

Any thoughts?

By Lowermanor

June 19, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

DOB —

Two things for you

1) Would you agree that the following scenario becomes more and more likely be the day: Andruw Jones signs a 1 year, $10 Million contract w/ the Braves for 2008

2) Highly encourage you to check out the Railroad Earth/Waybacks concert on Friday at the Variety Playhouse if you can.

By DonCoburleone

June 19, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

I agree, why don’t the Braves just take a flyer on J.C. Romero and Tomo Ohka??? Worst case scenario they get knocked around a little bit and we cut them; best case scenario we fill 2 holes in our roster (a situational lefty in the pen and a #5 starter)…

By Jersey Gil

June 19, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

DOB…Thanks for the Memory…Did you know that RAMONA really was LEONA….in 1960 Haggard wrote this some when i found out that his lady have a child with another man.

By Jersey Gil

June 19, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

DOB…Thanks for the Memory…Did you know that RAMONA really was LEONA….in 1960 Haggard wrote this son when he found out that his lady have a child with another man.

By biffpocoroba

June 19, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

DOB-

What’s going on with Lerew? He hasn’t show up in R-Brave boxscores. Still injured?

By d-rock in Scotland

June 19, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

New White Stripes is amazing. I’d put it up there with their best. They’ve got some real dirty rockers, like “300 M.P.H. Torrential Outpour Blues”, but they wrap it up in a quiet/loud pixies thing. They also bust out some bagpipe on a couple tracks, and I’d like to see Jack play that live.

My early favorite may be the cover version of “Conquest”, which is a camp anthem with mariachi horns. Great stuff.

By Broken bat

June 19, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

I think that as long as Chipper continues to play, McCann gets over his injury, and the others play as well as they are now, I think playoffs are in the mix. Lets, face it, the batters hit well against some of the best pitchers in the American League. If the dips in the media and blogs will just shut up with their catty remarks, the players confidence will build. As Yogi Berra siad, Baseball id ninty percent mental and the other fifty percent is ability. Andrew Jones is in a funk because everyone keeps Telling him they don’t want him any more. How do you think your performance would be if the boss told you that you weren’t wanted any more?

By Jersey Gil

June 19, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

DOB…Thanks for the memory….Did you know that RAMONA really was LEONA….haggard wrote this one when he was in jail and found out that his lady had a child with another man.

By Kieran from Long Island

June 19, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Has anyone seen the Braves Second half Schedule??? Their first month or so after the Break is immensly forgiving. They play that tough west coast road trip right before the break but if they can keep their heads above water until then, they could be in great position to make a run. Check this out:

3 Home against Pit 3 Home against Cin 4 Home against Stl 4 @ SF 3 @ Ari 3 Home Against Hou 3 Home against Col

and then a trip to Shea.

So long as they dont collapse before then, the ball will be in their court to win this division.

By tp

June 19, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Great quote from Andruw in Carroll’s article this morning:

“I just go out there and play the game,” Jones said. “You can’t think about that stuff because it’s only going to make it worse.”

Uh, Andruw, IT CAN’T GET ANY WORSE, so why don’t you try a different approach!

How about going up to the plate with an actual gameplan. More importantly, show some mental fortitude and concentration.

Want a reference? Watch videos of every Javier Lopez at-bat during his last year with the Braves. The guy took every at-bat seriously and he finally showed a genuine, thinking-man’s approach to hitting.

Braves fans feel your pain Mr. Pendleton. We feel your pain…

By Shaun

June 19, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

One thing to consider, all of you down on Braves fans:

Atlanta is not a huge city and Turner Field is a pretty large park (holds almost 49.831). It would be interesting to see how the percentage of the metro population goes to baseball games relative to other cities.

My guess is Atlanta stacks up to any city in attendance when you take population into account.

To get back to ballpark size, my guess is there would be a lot of empty seats if a decent percentage of the population showed up for the games.

So the Red Sox fans going to the game probably are taking a lot of seats that would otherwise be empty anyway.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 19, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Don C.,

I think I read somewhere that lefties are hitting close to .300 against Romero. I might be imagining that, but if it’s true, we don’t need any more of that action.

By BamaBrave

June 19, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

OK…I’ll say it. I do think Andruw is cooked for the year. I was probably rash yesterday when I called him the offensive version of Rick Ankiel, but only because I think he’ll eventually come out of this funk… Unfortunately, this will probably coincide with his change of uniform, next year.

And for what it’s worth…I agree. Passover is excellent. I’ve compiled a trippy, psychedelic rock mix containing cherry-picked selections from Passover, some Dandy Warhols, Brian Jonestown Massacre, and BRMC. I can’t quit listening to it…

By Lee

June 19, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

If the Braves send down Escobar and keep Orr on the team - I sorry to say this but management will need their heads examined. If this happens there will be no rationale at all.

By Jersey Gil

June 19, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Sorry for Duce post..my cumputer frozzzzz

By N8

June 19, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Shaun

“Also, concerning Sizemore being more patient than AJ: Thing is Andruw is pretty patient, too. Their walk rates aren’t that far apart.”

Patience is ALWAYS about walks. Patience could also mean, taking a “pitchers” pitch, and waiting for a pitch you can actually do something with, other than miss, or dribble out to the SS. Patience can also mean, taking a couple of pitches to see how the pitcher is going to “approach” you on a particular AB, and then going with the pitch.

Come on Shaun. Please don’t tell me that you think Andruw is patient because he occasionally walks?

That’s just silly.

By Stephen

June 19, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

No, not related. I’ve just always thought he was a guy that had a lot of potential and could be a quality 7th/8th inning guy under the right coaching. Before last season, he had posted two seasons with an ERA around 3.50 and was only at 3.15 this year. I figured with Gonzalez gone for the year and McBride the only lefty in the Bullpen, it wouldn’t hurt to take a look at him.

By David-ATL14

June 19, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

To the poster that asked about the Extra Innings package available via IN Demand or DirecTV or any other provider. The home team’s feed is the one used for the majority of viewers.

Thus the feeds from Minn and Cleveland.Last night’s game was not carried by any ATL local station. It was carried by ESPN and by NESN(Red Sox) thus the NESN feed was the only one that could be used for the EI package.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

As often, the timing for my last post was bad…came at the end of Carrolls blog but was directed at DOB, Carroll and our resident blogmeisters and I really would like feedback on this:

Platoon 3-4-5 slots: Since we have such inconsistency in the 3,4 and 5 SP slots but also great talent, maybe we think outside the box a bit and break traditions. Days one and two: Smoltz and Hudson of course. Day Three: pitch Buddy Carlisle 5 innings and Lance Cormier 4 innings. Day 4: pitch Chuck James 5 innings and Kyle Davies 4 innings. Day 5: Start Oscar Villarreal and finish with…I don’t know here. We have our bullpen to finish things up as usual, but the idea is to platoon starters. Takes some of the heat off of bullpen potentially. Not sure of the particular order or where they fit…but you get the idea. Within a month or so, maybe one or two of these guys step up, get in a groove and take a full SP slot through the game.

DOB and others: love your thoughts: tell me why it might work or wouldn’t work…tell me if it’s an old bad idea or, just call me an idiot for even suggesting it. Either way, what the heck have we got to lose by trying it? The metrics on these guys confidence, stamina, pitch count capability, competitiveness, etc. might just support the concept. What say youz guys?

By EddieJ

June 19, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Renteria and Harris are not really this good and Andruw, Francoeur and Thorman are not that bad. Peaks and valleys, guys … always has been, always will be. Except for Smoltz!

By N8

June 19, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

*DOB

I realize that my spelling isn’t always perfect, but what is your “take” on how serious we should take somebody that can’t spell AndrUw’s name correctly?

That would be like me claiming to be a HUGE Miami Heat fan, and stating that in order for the team to do well, Shackeal Okneel, needs to stay healthy.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

DOB: Thanks for the blog. This AJ situation is getting painful to watch. I hope he comes around. I was looking forward to watching this guy have a monster walk off season. Perhaps he is just building the suspense. Or perhaps he is managing contract expectations in his own way.

MBATL: I hear ya on Escobar. I’d love to see them keep him up, drop Woodward and pull up Pena. Pena seems to be maning every position in the minors these days, and he’s a switch hitter. Pull him back up here.
With Pena and Salty on the bench JS could pull the ol’ switcheroo. A GM comes calling, inquiring about what it would take to get that young talented switch hitting catcher that is sitting on our bench. JS names his price, signs the paper and sends Pena over to ‘em for a top flight starter.

By Baron

June 19, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

DOB, any snowball’s chance that Leo could return to ATL now that his boy Perlozzo has been canned? Or possible that Leo might take over the helm for the O’s? Or go elsewhere?

By NCBravesFan

June 19, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

DOB I posted this late in the previous blog and will raise the issue again … do you (or the fine blog denizens) think Andruw really hates the idea of leaving Atlanta and his struggles in some way are a subconscious way to sabotage his free agent year?

I mean, I’m with you DOB … people with so much talent don’t suddenly “forget how to hit.”

Then again as I type this, I remember that he’s played a stellar CF … so any psychological aspects would probably show up there too.

It’s just really baffling how someone so talented could become so clueless at the plate.

By AJK

June 19, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Great, long post today, and agree with every word. Snce we are still in the thick of both the division and WC races, do you see the Braves making a trade for a starter? Any chance they’re in on Buehrle if the White Sox decide to move him?

By Thrillhouse44

June 19, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

why don’t the Braves just take a flyer on J.C. Romero and Tomo Ohka?

Do you guys not remember Redman? I’m sure you do - we bashed him hard (much like everyone of his opponents) from the time he signed. These cats were released for a reason. They stink (much like Mets fans).

By AZBravoFan

June 19, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

I hope the Mark Redman debacle is enough to sour the Braves on trying to get retreads like Ohka or Romero. I think we’re beyond the days of rehabilitating floundering pitchers at this point. They’ve got much better talent in house I think. They sure do need another lefty out there though. It’s painful to watch McBride at times.

By Lee

June 19, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Shaun -

I am assuming that park was originally built so large because of the Olympics but it is a huge seating park. Braves fans also tend to be a little laid back (making noise) and there is nothing wrong with that. Bradley’s column reminded me of comments made by sports writers back in the 1970’s when there was hardly any attendance in Fulton County Stadium. I don’t think attendance is that bad either for Atlanta. Like I said on the other blog a lot of fans just live so far away until they just cannot go on a moment’s notice to the game.

By Jersey Gil

June 19, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

David-Atl14 Soory duce…i still don’t understant, because i have the Indemand Sport pkg and last week Florida series was all Florida broadcast not the Atlanta.Sometime are and sometime don’t.??????/

By Coach (NOT DRINKING THE KOOL AID)

June 19, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Hampton , Gone before the bell rang. Aybar went totally A.W.O.L. , Cormier has been all but unavailable , Redman was a bust. Langerhans and Wilson got the boot. Gonzo is gone until 2008 , Lerew said Hi and promptly went on the D.L. , Davies and James have been hit and miss at best , Andruw is well (fill in the blanks with expletives). Chipper has had his annual vacation on the D.L. , Smoltz has a bum shoulder and yet he soldiers on and McCann played right through his injuries. All this has gone wrong and yet here we sit 1.5 games behind the Mets. Many things have gone right to , Kelly Johnson , Willie Harris , Tim Hudson , Yunel Escobar , Salty , Soriano , Renteria , Diaz , Yates and Moylan. Bob Wickman , Francoeur and Thorman have done pretty much as expected. All in all , the Braves started fast and have somehow been able to keep their heads above water. They obviously need help (trade) and Bobby needs to make better decision’s with his pitching and lineup. I’m just along for the ride hoping they can pull out a miracle and beat some long odds.

By Dixie

June 19, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Who cares if the yankees from Boston come down here to watch a game. They are about as obnoxious as the yankees that come to see the Chicago Scrubs play. In the words of Lewis Grizzard, “Delta is ready when you are.” If life is so great up there, what are you doing here? Why don’t you go home to bury your head in a snowdrift. Better still, go bowling.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

EddieJ,

I agree about peaks and valleys, but Andruw is in a bottomless crevasse about right now. Have never seen him anywhere this lost for this long. I hope he can get out of this disaster, but this ain’t no ordinary slump.

By Shaun

June 19, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Lee,

Yeah. And the ‘70’s were different. Winning has a whole lot to do with attendance, probably even more than some in the media seem to think.

New York fans don’t go to games when the Yankees or Mets stink. Look at the attendance figures.

By Mitchie-san

June 19, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

We need Aaron Rowand….

By DonCoburleone

June 19, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

DOB the question to you is do you really think that this team should be only 1.5 games back? “Doomsayers” like N8 and (sometimes) myself are not just saying this stuff because deep down we secretely hate the Braves. We say it because we watch games and look at the standings and see that since the start of the 2006 season the Atlanta Braves are a .500 team! PERIOD! Last year we were 79-83; so far this year we are 38-33. That is 117-116 for almost a year and a half worth of baseball. .500 ball will not get you into the playoffs (even if your in the NL Central). So, until we improve our 4 and 5 spots in the rotation and Chipper actually plays more than 110 games in a season and Andruw raises his average 60 points and Chuck James actually gets out of the 6th inning and a lefty in the ‘pen actually gets somebody out and Cox finally gets over his man-crush for Pete Orr and Chris Woodward I will continue to speak the truth about the Braves… And if that makes me a “doomsayer” than so be it…

GO BRAVES!!!!!!!!

By Alan

June 19, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

DOB: I’ve been “away” (lots of travel with work) for a while, but still read your great stuff every chance I get. It is amazing that the Braves are hanging in there despite the injuries and Andruw’s woes. You know, his struggles have to be cause for serious concern. He can’t be hurt, can he? Does he need a contact lens or two (like Diaz last year) to correct deficient depth perception? He looks absolutely lost at the plate - it’s embarrassing, frankly. And it’s really hurting the Braves’ offense. At this point, he probably should be hitting 8th. That’s where I’d put him. I, like everyone else, am waiting (more impatiently by the day, I must add) for him to break out. As for tonight’s matchup, I’m certainly encouraged by Hudson’s great effort against the Twins, but his numbers against the BoSox are indeed frightening. And Beckett is tough. Should be interesting. I agree 100% with you about “Knocked Up.” Great movie. Surprisingly so. And LOL-funny. I believe the writer-director is the same guy who did “40-Year-Old Virgin,” with which it is often compared. I favor “Knocked Up” by quite a bit. Katherine Heigl has a little something to do with that, I must admit. She’s a fine-looking young woman and not a bad actress, either.

By Braveheart

June 19, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Mike and the Mad Dog on WFAN are worshipping Smoltz right now, dissing Maddux, completely saying that Clemens can’t hold Smoltz’s jock in the postseason. They say that Smoltz is a greater all time right handed pitcher than Clemens.

By Paladin

June 19, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

DOB: I’ve had no luck getting you for a dance partner so I’ll try a new subject. And “subject” is my subject. I realize that with work and all everyone can’t read every post, but some of these people try to beat that ole horse into ground round. Jeez! It’s almost the same post repeated over and over! Maybe you could create fixed categories so they could just come on and make a check mark beside them. Like ___sux. Or, ___couldn’t hit Dr. Ruth’s fastball. And there’s an idea: Dr. Ruth would be a good addition to the Braves bullpen. Anyway, you get my drift and I’m drifting rapidly.

By Bob Dylan

June 19, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

To Ramona

Ramona, come closer, Shut softly your watery eyes. The pangs of your sadness Will pass as your senses will rise. The flowers of the city Though breathlike, get deathlike sometimes. And there’s no use in tryin’ T’ deal with the dyin’, Though I cannot explain that in lines.

Your cracked country lips, I still wish to kiss, As to be by the strength of your skin. Your magnetic movements Still captures the minutes I’m in. But it grieves my heart, love, To see you tryin’ to be a part of A world that just don’t exist. It’s all just a dream, babe, A vacuum, a scheme, babe, That sucks you into feelin’ like this.

I can see that your head Has been twisted and fed With worthless foam from the mouth. I can tell you are torn Between stayin’ and returnin’ Back to the South. You’ve been fooled into thinking That the finishin’ end is at hand. Yet there’s no one to beat you, No one t’ defeat you, ‘Cept the thoughts of yourself feeling bad.

I’ve heard you say many times That you’re better than no one And no one is better than you. If you really believe that, You know you have Nothing to win and nothing to lose. From fixtures and forces and friends, Your sorrow does stem, That hype you and type you, And making you feel That you gotta be just like them.

I’d forever talk to you, But soon my words Would turn into a meaningless ring. For deep in my heart I know there is no help I can bring. Everything passes, Everything changes, Just do what you think you should do. And someday maybe, Who knows, baby, I’ll come and be cryin’ to you.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

By Broken Bat: “If the dips in the media and blogs will just shut up with their catty remarks, the players confidence will build.”

Your sentiment is understandable but your premise is flawed.

First, professional athletes that are thin-skinned should not read negative press. If they do, then perhaps yes…their performance may suffer a bit. But if they are confident in their own ability then they may also use negative articles to motivate themselves. So, which edge of the sword is it?

Second, actors, athletes and other performers have always been advised against reading negative press. Some do, some don’t. I wouldn’t surmise that they are effected one way or the other…unless they are inclined to melt-down with any slight criticism regardless of the venue…printed, spoken or imagined.

Third and foremost: Professional athletes are being paid truckloads of money to perform. You can argue the “worth” on the field and the “worth” to society and “distraction” by the press and fans all you want. Fact is, they are being paid to FOCUS on their respective sport. If they succeed, they are rewarded handsomely. They get silly money today. Fickled fans and negative “ink” are always going to be part of the game. That’s life in the big city.

The point: I wouldn’t worry too much about the press or the blog or the banner or the boo effecting pro performance. Most athletes that are going to be around more than a few years don’t.

By Soul Man

June 19, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts, I’m news director at a smallish 20,000 watt Christian music station.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

DOB, hear anything about how Chipper’s hands felt after playing 3rd last night? I wasn’t able to see the game, but I read he took a sharp grounder in the 8th and winced a little after it. I know it’s got to still be sore, just hoping he doesn’t bruise it again soon.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Paladin: funny stuff. Like it. On that subject, how about Groundhogs or Bill Murray movies? Nah, we’ve seen it before so many times. Dr. Ruth as pitching coach?

By AthensBrave

June 19, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

DonCoburleone, I’d say that makes you a “doomsayer”. I agree that Orr and Woodward need to go. They are both terrible. I think we will get another starter, but I don’t think the Braves are in a huge rush to do so, b/c we are only 1 and 1/2 out. Maybe a few games over .500 wins the East this year. I doubt it knowing the Mets are willing to spend lots of money to correct their problems

By lynn

June 19, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Sorry sports fans! Tomo Ohka’s already been scooped up by the Cards! I’m sooo bumbed!

By Ron Roberts

June 19, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

I’m telling ya…

Andruw’s about to break out of this funk.

Watch it. Remember who called it.

Re: Turner Field/Atlanta vs. Boston fans…

I’ve said it all morning on Bradley’s blog… reduce Turner Field by 10,000 seats or so, lop off the top 10-12 or so rows of seats in the upper deck and bring lose the 755 Club behind left field, moving the Braves’ legends statues where all the interactive stuff was. Let’s see those statues DURING the game and the Atlanta skyline, too. Then, demolish the entire section of the stadium beyond the right field foul pole, and rebuild it facing more at an angle facing the infield instead of left field. Heck, we got enough outfield wall seats, so why not move the visitor’s bullpen over, stack the home and away ‘pen like they do in some other parks, with one behind and above the other, and work that into the field some, giving a little “unique” dimension into the playing field.

The work they did to bring about some character to U.S. Cellular Field is nothing short of amazing, first of all. Secondly, we could stand to shed 10,000 seats anyhow. With 20,000 season ticket holders, we’d almost always have nothing worse than a 50/50 crowd showing up at the games, and would probably actually make the tickets more valuable and might actually spur some more season tickets or partial package tickets sold, too. That makes single game purchasers the minority in the stands.

Face it; Cubs and Red Sox fans have so much trouble buying home game tickets that they’re forced to travel to cities like Atlanta, Tampa, Miami, Phoenix (nice summer destinations, by and large) during the summer vacations to see their teams. And Atlanta’s full of residents who hail from the northeast and the rust belt. That’s just the way it is.

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

I know that it has been previously suggested but let me second, or third, or fourth the suggestion that rather than taking Andruw out behind the barn, someone escort him to Howie McCann’s warehouse.

Also, deutsches Bier war sehr gut back in the day but I’ll stick to Coca Cola, blue worms, poles, puddin’ and baseball … so doing is safer … in Nurenberg (nur ein Berg or only a mountain) I was known as Bob, journalist only they pronounced it “The Bochwurst Kid”!

Long gone, but hopefully not forgotten.

Maybe I should change my name …

Speaking of going … I’m out of here!

By woogidy

June 19, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

DOB I got some sweet Dugout seats for the game tonight. What are the scenarios if this game gets rained out? I know the Braves and Sox are off Thursday, you think that will be a day or night or is that even a day they could schedule a makeup game? Oh and tell Andruw I am gonna wear my lucky socks tonight, unless it’s a rain out, I’ll wear them tomorrow. Thanks.

By Michael

June 19, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

DOB - I posted this near the end of the last blog.

“However I was very impressed by the way Bobby “handled the game tonight. He seems to be reversing decisions that he was making earlier in the year, Can a 65 yr old man actually be learning from some of the mistakes he made earlier this year? (I dunno) I wouldnt bet on it tho.”

DOB - this post was from earlier this morning. I don’t think that this is the case at all. Having watched BC manage for a lot years, I think that this is his modus operandi. I think he uses the 1st couple of months or so of the season to evaluate his guys in all kinds of game situations. I think he also uses this time, after a couple of turns through the league (and inter-league) to evaluate the opposition as well. Thus, I think we will start seeing different decision - making than we were seeing earlier in the year. I think we’ve seen this same trend in prior years as well. Do you get this at all from your conversations with BC?

By MizzouGuru

June 19, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

This Braves team could sneak into the playoffs as is, but if they do, they won’t be a threat to do much. I think they have sufficient hitting and a good bullpen. However, they need another quality starter to fill the role we hoped Hampton would fill. James is fine as a 4th starter and I think we are okay at the fifth starter whether that be Davies, Cormier or somebody from Triple A. However, without a solid and consistent number 3 starter, this team is destined to not go far.

By Kentavo

June 19, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

White Stripes are coming here to Myrtle Beach in late July! Icky Thump indeed. As for Andruw, I’m kind of fascinated in the watching a train wreck type fasion to see if he can sink below .200. I think he can do it. I can see Scott Boras’ head about to explode at the $$ Andruw is costing him in potential commission.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Shaun,

You hit the nail on the head about attendance. The Braves don’t do that bad. Over the last 16 years our friends at Shea have drawn 35,634M while the Braves have drawn 45,651. We don’t draw as well as I would like, but jeeez, we are not talking about the Marlins or something. The Mets have had one year during that period when they drew over 3M while the Braves have had 6. I used the Mets because the stadium has essentially the same capacity as Turner Field and Atlanta Fulton County Stadium.

By DAP

June 19, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

savannah guy heres my response to you, also on the last blog. :-)

savannah guy

interesting idea with the rotation. like you, in my frusteration, ive though, well heck, why dont we just START the game with long relief, theyll be in there soon anyways. its not nessecarilly a bad idea.

the problem is, when you plan for two guys to pitch a game, and the game doesnt go according to plan, maybe on of them cant go 5 innings, or maybe smoltz or huddy needs to come out early, you are going to run out of pitchers pretty quick. you named 7 “starters” plus soriano and wickman, that will only leave you 3 guys as back up.

besides,it isnt scheduled that way, but it kinda works that way anyways. when smoltz is in you figure smoltz for 7, soriano 1 and wickamn 1. same for huddy. when james pitches you figure james for 5, moylan for 2, soriano 1 wickman 1. davies pitches, you get davies for 5, villareal for 2, poranto 1 yates 1.

anyways, you get my point. the team is already set up to back each other up the way you descibed, but it gives us more flexibility to NOT schedule it that way. then we can be creative.

(when i say we i mean bobby and the coaches, not me. i wish it was me though)

By Renegator

June 19, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Paladin

What is the significance of your name or where did you come up with it?

By Chop Chop

June 19, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

I agree with you about getting rid of some seats at Turner Field, Ron Roberts. After all, we’ve seen that Atlanta has no business having a 50,000-seat baseball stadium. The trend for all the new ballparks being built is to cut back on seating. Oakland will have a mere 34,000 at Cisco Field. The Twins will have 40,000 at their new place. The Nats will have 41,000. The Mets will have 44,000 at Citi Field. The Yanks are even cutting back from their current 54,000 at the House That Ruth Built to 51,800 at the new Yankee Stadium. I think the Braves would do quite well to make the ballpark a little more intimate, especially in the outfield. I think 43,000 would be a decent number for a reconfigured Turner Field.

Even if they don’t reconfigure the park anytime soon, I have a special request for Liberty Media:

Dynamite Tooner Field.

I volunteer to detonate it.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

It’s so crazy that Kelly Johnson isn’t even in the top 5 all-star voting for 2nd basemen. I can understand Utley leading the voting because he’s been raking all season, but Jeff Kent, Craig Biggio, Rickie Weeks and Jose Valentin are ranked 2-5 in votes! That’s insane. Valentin hasn’t even played most of the season so far. Weeks is on the DL now and hasn’t had a good season. Kent and Biggio have been HORRIBLE all season. Nothing like having a popularity contest to see who hosts the world series.

By Marc

June 19, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

On one hand we’ve played well enough to stay alive, on the other hand we should be 7 or so games back right now if not the Mets’ recent struggles. Still plenty of reason for concern.

By Tampaparrotthead

June 19, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Well, well, well… this is exactly what I’ve been screaming for weeks now. Granted, things aren’t perfect in Atlanta, but someone please tell me where they are perfect! Nu Yawk… nope (neither team). Philly… just wait ‘til they spew off a few more L’s. Hell Hay… no, no, no… and they haven’t played in the heat hardly at all yet! I just got back from Chickencago… saw the Cubbies (Friday and Fightday!) and heard a lot about the Chisox… and you people think Atlanta has problems?!?

Some may not play as well in the second half as they did in the first half, but it will be such as it’s been for the most part. The biggest difference is… Andruw is going on a @$$ rippin’ tear just any ole day now and there’s going to be h e double hockey sticks to pay for a lot of NL pitchers.

Write this down… by October 1st the numbers next to Andruw’s name will be very similar to what they have always been… I’d bet my house on it!

So sayeth the shepherd… so sayeth the flock!!

The TPH…

By woogidy

June 19, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, This may have come up, but what about Peter Moylan as a starter?

By Tad

June 19, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

Greetings DOB Braves bloggers. I thought I’d give a shout out on my 30th b-day and praise the Braves effort last night. It was a great game and good to beat the Sox and Schilling.

Shot a decent golf game today and heading to the TED tonight. The only problem is that it is raining pretty substantially now at 4:45 and the forecast doesn’t improve by gametime. With all the pending traffic doom even though I have a parking pass, what are the realistic chances the game will be played tonight?

Any thoughts on the rain tonight?

By Paladin

June 19, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Renegator: you wrote: What is the significance of your name or where did you come up with it? I’m glad you asked. In the 60’s there was a TV Western called Paladin where the lead was played by the late Richard Boone who portrayed this cool dude who lived a plush life in San Francisco but when “wired” he donned his all black attire and became a gun for hire. That’s not it. The original Paladin or Paladins were Charlemagnes’12 most trusted Knights—sort of his ministers of defense. That’s partly it. I adopted the name as my “call sign” and flew over 500 combat missions using it. It worked for me then. And now, it is a “comfort” to an old man to know that I was once a pretty “bad” dude and a modern-day knight. Thanks for your interest.

By Illegals?

June 19, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

It’s funny to me that all the loudmouths carp about the Mexicans coming here, speaking Spanish and waving Mexican flags. Nothing is said about the people from Baaston coming here and wearing their Red Sox shirts and hats, the people from Chicago coming here wearing their Cubs stuff and the people from N’yawk wearing their Mutts stuff. Why don’t you go home or assimilate into this culture?

By bravefansince54

June 19, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

At the start of the season, we looked for Thorman to play a respectable first base, and he has, and for maybe 20 HR’s, and is on pace. His average is not appreciably below expectations. I predict a surge, here. The guy is major league and a keeper.

I will admit to thinking that Redman was a JS “coup” - wrong! - but I won’t cop to thinking like many of you(and you know who you are)that Langerhans (currently hitting a buck-six-bits) vs. Diaz (hitting .345) was a debatable issue.

I look at our pitching, and I see that we have three double-digit ERA disasters,and one is gone. The team average of 4.23 is going to get better. Lots of young talent (count ‘em: 7) with ERA’s between 2.21 and 4.14 - not bad at all, and that’s not three of our starters (Smoltz, Huddy, James). Folks, look at these numbers, hitting and pitching - they aren’t that bad.

I don’t know that this is a playoff team, but I like this team a lot!

Yes, Orr and Woodward need to go, but we don’t even need AJ next year, use his salary to buy some pitching. (But don’t give up on some of these young arms so quickly!) Peace

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

DOB, do you think the red sox will continue to just use Ortiz as a pinch hitter tonight and tomorrow (like last night) since he’s so bad at first base? Sure is nice not having him in the lineup for boston. The Braves know what that’s like whenever Chipper’s not playing.

By BamaBrave

June 19, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

What the F are you talking about, Illegals?

By Michael Procton

June 19, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

DOB, Romero WAS indeed awful last year, but he was one of the best lefty relievers in baseball for the two years before that.

By ElbravoX

June 19, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

If we play even money ball the next ten days, we then face the likes of the Cards ‘Stros, Bucs, Rockies, Nats, Reds, win all those series= Playoff. The Mets don’t scare me but the Marlins are a pest though…Today, pray for blisters!!! Wish I could go.

By Woodrow

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

I wish Andruw would go see Brian Mccann’s father for a little “therapy.”

By BossLady

June 19, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Rupert!This is the DOB not Carroll blog

By Hewhoone

June 19, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Guys,

I’ve got tickets for the game Saturday (start time 3:55) what time should my son and I get there for the Braves batting practice?

Thanks for any help you can give.

By TJ

June 19, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Spahn and Sain, and pray for NO RAIN! It’s muddy, but we got HUDDY!

By jbutler

June 19, 2007 5:26 PM | Link to this

So…kind of a newbie to this blog - but we actually got a Braves game televised here in the midwest last night…was that YOU on ESPN? The few minutes you (or you’re namesake sitting in the booth) were on camera you looked fairly glum. But…good hair.

By Illegals?

June 19, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

What I’m saying is why don’t you people who move here from other places try to assimilate into rooting for the home team. You don’t live there any more and I doubt that any of the players who were there when you lived there are either. If you want to do something important, try campaigning for liquor sales on Sunday.

By Chopin' at the bit

June 19, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this

Hewhoone- Get there when the gates open. Braves BP is underway before the gates even open. In order to get a view you need to be there early. Gates open 2 1/2 hours before game time. Offical posting from Braves site, based 7:05 game time…

BATTING PRACTICE SCHEDULE Pre-game batting practice is a ritual exclusive to the game of baseball. The schedule listed below is subject to change by either team.

7:05 p.m. game Visitors Extra Hitting 2:00-3:00 Braves Extra Hitting 4:20-4:35
Braves Hit 4:35-5:35
Visitors Hit 5:35-6:15
Braves Infield 6:15-6:25
Visitors Infield 6:25-6:35

By gant #5

June 19, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

The last band of rain will be east of Atlanta between 730 and 800 PM. The Braves will play tonight, perhaps just delayed a bit at the start. Caleb…you’re exactly right. The so called “All-Star” game is an absolute joke. As fans, just don’t watch the game, kill the ratings, and perhaps the MLB decision makers will come to their senses and fix all that is wrong with the once Midsummer Classic. Can we send AJ to AA Mississippi?

By Carolina Lady

June 19, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Errands complete and have a few minutes before kitchen duty - Paladin, thanks for your service, sir! Salute! What did you fly? VietNam?

My cousin Robert (actually my grandmother’s 1st cousin) and I are pretty close. He flew 60-some missions over Europe in P51s in WW2. Has some great photos. Unfortunately, he’s under hospice care right now due to a strange form of plasma cancer. What a wonderful guy he is! photo

By Paladin

June 19, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Well, I’ve got to leave and go fix my supper: Tennessee Country Ham (salty); biscuits w/red-eye gravy, and what my Mother used to call “onioney” slaw. After I’ve finished and put the dishes and utensils in the dishwasher, I’ll take my cigar, 3 miniture Hershey’s chocolates, and a bubble-glass of red vino out on the front porch. There, I’ll watch the birds play in the sprinkler and listen to the tree frogs and the crickets. If I’m lucky an occasional lighting bug will fly by. After that, if I’m still awake, I’ll watch the game. If not, I’ll read about it here tomorrow. ‘Night all!

By Bob

June 19, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

jbutler,

Not the same Dave O’Brien. Ours is much smarter and can pronounce Saltalamachia.

By Neil Young

June 19, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

If we think really hard, maybe we can stop this rain.

NO RAIN, NO RAIN

By Double Deuce

June 19, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Shaun Like your posts a lot, most are right on the money even though I don’t always agree. But to describe Andrew’s current problems to luck is eye raising to say the least. It isn’t luck when you continually roll over off speed pitches on the outside part of the plate and hit weak grounders to third, or strike out as many times as he has. His problems are way more serious than having bad luck. His problem right now is that space between the ears, and that is potentially much more damaging than any mechanical flaw he may have.

By Randy

June 19, 2007 5:36 PM | Link to this

Rain, rain go away. I drove in from Athens and want a game today.

Alan - Haven’t see Knocked Up yet (have heard nothing but good reviews). The writer-director, Judd Apatow, also had one good (Undeclared) and one great (Freaks and Geeks) TV show. Both only had one season. I guess we were lucky to get 3 out of Arrested Development. But almost all of the cast of Knocked Up, save the main girl, are in Freaks and Geeks and Undeclared.

By P-Town Brave

June 19, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

• Caleb wrote: It’s so crazy that Kelly Johnson isn’t even in the top 5 all-star voting for 2nd basemen. I can understand Utley leading the voting because he’s been raking all season, but Jeff Kent, Craig Biggio, Rickie Weeks and Jose Valentin are ranked 2-5 in votes! That’s insane. Valentin hasn’t even played most of the season so far. Weeks is on the DL now and hasn’t had a good season. Kent and Biggio have been HORRIBLE all season. Nothing like having a popularity contest to see who hosts the world series.*

Caleb, the problem is that unfortunately most NL fans are plain stupid..you don’t see too many poor AL players in their top 3 do you…I agree w/ Fielder and Utley though…just not Reyes or Wright or even Beltran and not its not bc they’re Mets…but frankly bc others have had better seasons

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this

Have Gun, Will Travel reads the card of a man/A knight without armor in a savage land

His fast gun for hire heeds the calling wind/A soldier of fortune is the man called Paladin

Paladin, Paladin where do you roam? Paladin, Paladin far, far from home

He travels on to wherever he must/A chess knight of silver is his badge of trust

There are campfire legends that the trailmen spin/of the man with the gun, the man called Paladin

Paladin, Paladin, where do you roam? Paladin, Paladin, far, far from home. Far from home. Far from home.

By Kevin

June 19, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

Hey DB, I’m on old press box colleague. Really miss covering the games. I have one quick observation about Andruw (who I really need to start playing better for my fantasy league hopes). If I recall, he has lasik surgery a few years back. Many people who have lasik have to have another procedure (think Tiger Woods and my Mom) after just a couple of years. Has anyone thought of that angle? Can’t hit what you’re having problems seeing.
Keep up the good work. I’m glad the AJC is letting you show off your creative talents and personalities this way.

By Kevin

June 19, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

Hey DB, I’m on old press box colleague. Really miss covering the games. I have one quick observation about Andruw (who I really need to start playing better for my fantasy league hopes). If I recall, he has lasik surgery a few years back. Many people who have lasik have to have another procedure (think Tiger Woods and my Mom) after just a couple of years. Has anyone thought of that angle? Can’t hit what you’re having problems seeing.
Keep up the good work. I’m glad the AJC is letting you show off your creative talents and personalities this way.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

DAP: Thans for the feedback. I was beginning to think my posts were invisible. Or maybe I hadn’t learned the secret handshake or something. Actually I agree with your points, but perhaps we could make up the 4 and 5 slots by platooning. I’ll leave the details out but I’m still not convinced it couldn’t work.

By Tampaparrotthead: 4:48 “… by October 1st the numbers next to Andruw’s name will be very similar to what they have always been… I’d bet my house on it!”

I’ll take that bet. So, what kind of house do you have? Will you need a few weeks to find other living arrangements? I’ll hope to be wrong for the sake of the team and for Andruw (and for your homeless family), but I see AJ hitting under 250 at season end.

Paladin: Cool moniker. I thought it was from the “have gun, will travel” dude but am fully aware of the history of the name. Thanks for the story on your military experience. Paladin is a great name for a fighter plane. Since you flew for our country and survived so many sortees, my hat is off to you good sir. Glad we have American heros on this blog. Mean it.

By Kentavo

June 19, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

re: Turner Field attendance

1. Too many northeastern transplants living in the suburbs who remain loyal to their teams (and I agree, if Boston were so great - which it is a nice town, I must admit - what are you doing here?)

2. Turner Field is too big - they got greedy when converting it from the Olympics because Braves were in the midst of a renaissance

3. It ain’t easy getting to the park - no matter how you slice it. Compare it to Fenway, Stankee Stadium, or Wrigley where you can hop right off the train. Couldn’t a MART spur rail be built? I bet it could.

4. There are plenty of passionate Braves fans throughout the Southeast - but until recently, you could watch every game on TBS or go to your favorite bar and watch it.

5. Atlanta at its core is a relatively small city with huge outlying suburbs - and the suburbs are populated with transplants from all over the country who don’t give a rat’s @ss about the Braves

By Neil Young

June 19, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

When I get big, I’m gonna get an electric guitar,

When I get REALLY big.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 5:44 PM | Link to this

Illegals?, that’s just plain stupid. It’s called loyalty. What about those of us that move fairly often? If I followed your advice I’d have been a fan of 10 teams already and I’m only 27.

By Paul

June 19, 2007 5:45 PM | Link to this

What would Billy Walsh say about this Braves team? Could he fix Andruw? Would he call Schuerholz a suit? Would he tell Smoltz to pitch with more passion? I think Walsh would make for an excellent GM. I really think the Orioles missed on a perfect fit for their organization. You kidding, I am Queens Boulevard.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this

Grinch, Boy does that bring back memories. Good one.

By Lady Chablis

June 19, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

Savannah Boy, you so sensitive. I’ve got a secret handshake I can teach you. Come see a show sometime this week.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 5:59 PM | Link to this

Bob, they’d play a DH (split) tomorrow if can’t get it in, but I just talked to groundskeeper and he thinks they’ll get it in, with perhaps a brief stoppage or two during.

Right now teams are playing catch in outfield, tarp’s still on but not raining anymore.

Sox have to travel to West Coast, so they’d want to play it tomorrow rather than on the off day, as would Braves….

Hillbilly, that “Nashville Rash” song is on Best of the Hightone Years. Great CD to pick up….

By MEB

June 19, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Hewhoone… two hours before game time. Recommend left center field and do bring a glove. The Braves will hit BP first and then the Tigers. You can try to get some autographs down at field level just past the dugouts up to thirty minutes before game time. Don’t count on getting one but be ready with a ball and pen just in case you get lucky. Then the ushers and announcer will ask all to return to their seats thirty minutes before game time.

GO BRAVES!!!

By Randy

June 19, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Kentavo - A direct Marta line would be nice, but actually unnecessary. I never drive to the park anymore, unless I happen to be coming in on I-20. I usually take Marta from my buddy’s place in Midtown. It takes around 30 minutes door-to-turnstile. Marta to Five Points and then a shuttle bus (the bus ride takes about 10 minutes). The problem is that no one knows how good of an option Marta actually is. The Braves do a terrible job of informing fans of how best to get to the game. I grew up in Atlanta and had no idea Marta was a decent option. Maybe they want to sell more parking spots and less tickets?

By teoa

June 19, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this

Glad to see that good beer has worked its way into the discussion along with good music and baseball (thanks to The Grinch and others)…this is definitely my kind of place.

I have to say though, the guy (Lee?) arguing the merits of Bud Light is comparable to the guy who insisted that Tim McGraw should be included in the music discussion — that it’s all simply a matter of taste. With all due respect, Bud Light is bad beer and Tim McGraw is bad music by any standards. My condolences if you have been brainwashed into actually preferring the taste of Bud Light over a real beer. There’s something about that magic formula of poor quality ingredients, half a*******ed brewing methods, and millions of advertising dollars that really does it for some people.

If we’re going to talk about beer, let’s talk about what the Belgian monks have perfected over centuries of beer making. Or maybe the Germans’ doppelbock or hefeweizen. Or the English bitter. Or the Irish stout. Or the countless great American craft breweries like Dogfish Head, Rogue, North Coast Brewing, etc. Or the mecca of American beer that is Asheville, NC with its six — six! — great breweries and excellent beer lists at nearly every restaurant, bar, and grocery store. But please, don’t bring that weak Bud Light action in here…just doesn’t belong in the Braves/MIB blog.

Okay, carry on. I’m off to crack open a Dogfish 90 minute IPA. Here’s to another good Braves game tonight.

By Michael Procton

June 19, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

It’s pretty clear that the NFL’s Pro Bowl voting system is the best. Three components are weighed equally: fan voting, player voting, and coaches voting. Very rarely are there just bad picks, and you don’t put the pressure/responsibility for reserves on one manager. This would particularly make sense now that there’s been the terrible decision to base World Series home field advantage on it.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:05 PM | Link to this

P-town Brave, if MLB wants it to be a popularity contest, that’s fine. It’s supposed to be for the fans, to see their favorite players, maybe even if they’re having bad seasons. But, to have the winning league host the world series is just stupid. Another “brilliant” move by selig. What a moron. At least go back to what it was like before where it just rotated every year. As for the AL voting, it sure sucks for any REAL firstbasemen that david ortiz is listed there. What a joke. Yes, he’s an amazing hitter and he’ll probably still being crushing long balls when he’s in a wheel chair, but if you can’t play a field position then you shouldn’t be starting on the all-star team when it’s played at a NL stadium.

By Michael Procton

June 19, 2007 6:09 PM | Link to this

Kevin, it strikes me as strange that a guy would have trouble hitting the ball because of vision problems while being able to still do an exceptional job of tracking the ball off the bat (75+ yards away) in the field.

By MBATL

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

Kentavo, great summary. I agree on all points.

AllStar Voting

Allstar voting should not be done on the internet.

I’m supposed to vote 25 TIMES just to maximize my vote? Well, then I can turn off my DSL modem for 10 minutes, get a new IP address, clear my cookies, and vote again, if I’m really motivated (which I’m not). Or, just move to another computer, of course.

Stick with me here….

I think votes should be cast ONLY at ballgames… by the fans who bought tickets. And then, “weight” the results by attendance.

In other words, when the cutoff date comes, a quick calculation - Yankees attendance is 110% of the AL average? Okay, votes count only 90.9%. Kansas City’s attendance is 60% of the AL average? Votes cast in KC count 1.66 times.

This sounds complicated, but could be written into a program in about 30 minutes.

The fans who pay the tab would get the vote, and “big market bias” would be taken out of the equation.

Every fan who buys a ticket - whether in NY or KC - would have equal input.

I just thought of this, so it may have some holes… but think I’ll go ahead and claim patent on it anyway.

And of course, I know it’ll never happen. How it should be, and how it will be, seldom converge.

Even then, though, it shouldn’t decide World Series home field… that should alternate by year.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

And as much as I hate the mets, reyes is having a pretty darn good year. Problem is that Renteria is having a better year overall, but isn’t getting the votes. Of course, when you play in a city that has 8 million people in the immediate vicinity, it sure helps with votes.

By dobearsbare

June 19, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Wheee’lll never make it. Weee’rre Dooooooooooommmed!

Why all the hand-wringing? To me, it’s not Andruw. The offense is good enough to carry the team. Here’s the reason for the hand-wringing: The Braves are giving away —- GIVING AWAY —- 2 1/2 starts of every five. They simply don’t have the ability to run off a long winning streak because the starting pitching is inconsistent. Unlike the Mets, who are going to get Pedro back soon, there is no help on the way. Not real help anyway. Granted, there’s no guarantee that Pedro will be at the top of his game, but I’d feel more optimistic with that than I do with the knowledge that Kyle Davies and Buddy Carlyle are my last two starters.

By J-MAN

June 19, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

D.O.B its been a while since I’ve gotten on but here some things I’ve notice about the Braves for all the injuries and recent slumps they are still 1 1/2 games back of the also slumping Mets. And I think well catch them but to make sure of this we need to go after a couple of leftys, 1 in the Starting 5 and 1 in the BP. We dont even have to go after the top teir guys just guys to eat up innings and that are consistant. Obliviously I would love for them to go after Mark Beurlie but he might have to high of a pricetag. But I think JS will still give Kenny Williams a few calls. Now as of right now Andruw has probably cost himself $50 Mil ( he was wanting a bigger contract than Vernon Wells 7Yrs.- 126 Mil, he aint getting that 8 year 150 Mil deal he was wanting, he’ll be lucky to get a 90 Mil deal.) Now I like Andruw and I dont want to see people not make their jack but I like the fact that this has bit Boras right in the A$$$$$$$$ cha-ching, but I want Druw to pick it up so we can catch the Mets.

By J-MAN

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

D.O.B its been a while since I’ve gotten on but here some things I’ve notice about the Braves for all the injuries and recent slumps they are still 1 1/2 games back of the also slumping Mets. And I think well catch them but to make sure of this we need to go after a couple of leftys, 1 in the Starting 5 and 1 in the BP. We dont even have to go after the top teir guys just guys to eat up innings and that are consistant. Obliviously I would love for them to go after Mark Beurlie but he might have to high of a pricetag. But I think JS will still give Kenny Williams a few calls. Now as of right now Andruw has probably cost himself $50 Mil ( he was wanting a bigger contract than Vernon Wells 7Yrs.- 126 Mil, he aint getting that 8 year 150 Mil deal he was wanting, he’ll be lucky to get a 90 Mil deal.) Now I like Andruw and I dont want to see people not make their jack but I like the fact that this has bit Boras right in the A$$$$$$$$ cha-ching, but I want Druw to pick it up so we can catch the Mets.

By J-MAN

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

D.O.B its been a while since I’ve gotten on but here some things I’ve notice about the Braves for all the injuries and recent slumps they are still 1 1/2 games back of the also slumping Mets. And I think well catch them but to make sure of this we need to go after a couple of leftys, 1 in the Starting 5 and 1 in the BP. We dont even have to go after the top teir guys just guys to eat up innings and that are consistant. Obliviously I would love for them to go after Mark Beurlie but he might have to high of a pricetag. But I think JS will still give Kenny Williams a few calls. Now as of right now Andruw has probably cost himself $50 Mil ( he was wanting a bigger contract than Vernon Wells 7Yrs.- 126 Mil, he aint getting that 8 year 150 Mil deal he was wanting, he’ll be lucky to get a 90 Mil deal.) Now I like Andruw and I dont want to see people not make their jack but I like the fact that this has bit Boras right in the A$$$$$$$$ cha-ching, but I want Druw to pick it up so we can catch the Mets.

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy,

Your sentiment is understandable but your premise is flawed … interesting observation, that.

Methinks there’s no possibility that player performance, regardless of the stage upon which they perform … assuming the performance occurs other than in a “Ground Hog Day” environment … is not impacted by the reactions expressed by those witnessing the performance; regardless of the deftness, adroitness, experience level … any modifier you might choose.

Unless of course, you include those who have ceased to have worth as players … and those who are dead.

It’s just my opine, but it’s a strong one … and methinks that to otherwise so think is to not.

It’s true from the podium, the stage, on the diamond or on the links, in the boardroom, in Church or on the “Man-n-Black” Blog … all the players are so impacted … unless, it’s poor Robert.

The rhetoric is relatively unimportant … if you don’t believe your comments and actions have a far reaching impact on the attitudes and actions of others, then you don’t so believe … to me, that’s unfortunate and it might make Matt and Willie a bit uncomfortable, but it’s your belief and in all probability, my comments won’t materially impact your current state of equilibrium.

My concern is with those who do not sincerely hold your belief … but use it as partial rationalization for their boorish behavior.

As the General said in effect, “it’s only important that I know” … me and Robert.

By Hewhoone

June 19, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

Chopin’ and MEB

Thanks for responding, I haven’t been to BP in a few years and didn’t want my son to miss it!

By Bob

June 19, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

Teoa,

Enjoy your brew. My Franziskaner Hefe is cooling right now for a 19:35 first pitch.

By Train Wreck Bystander

June 19, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

Why the handwringing? I’ll take a stab at it.

It’s because the Braves could be pulling away from the Mets instead of just treading water.

Sure, we are still in the thick of the division and wild card races.

But a golden opportunity is slipping away.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

MBATL: It’s actually a lot easier than that. Change your email address and name. I’m not clear on if the confirmation email also validates the address. If that’s the case then you’d need a valid email address to make it stick.
At any rate, there are a lot of strangers out there wondering why they are receiving MLB.com All Star Voting emails. But they should be happy. They are avid Braves fans having voted only for Braves players at every position.

By CJ

June 19, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

DOB - Since we’re on the subject of beer, what’s your flavor?

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

teoa, if you like great beer that’s brewed in the u.s., you need to go out to the Seattle area. There are microbreweries everywhere out there and many of them are really incredible. One of my favorites is Front Street Ale house in Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Great beer in an amazing location. Port Townsend, WA, also has several great breweries.
Also, Colorado probably has the most microbreweries of any state, many of them really good too. I’m not a big fan of some of the bigger ones in Fort Collins and Breckenridge (they’ve kind of sold out to the masses), but if you’re ever out in Crested Butte, you should definitely try White Buffalo. It’s a pale ale by Crested Butte brewing co. Really fantastic, but unfortunately, they’ve stopped shipping it outside of Crested Butte, so you can’t get it unless you go there.

By Tampaparrotthead

June 19, 2007 6:36 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy… I’m not sure what Andruw’s lifetime BA is, but right now if we could get a guarantee of a .250 average (or just below it) from Andruw, I think everybody would take it. But without checking at all I would think that his lifetime average would be closer to .250 than to .300… not sure though.

But there’s a lot more to look at with him as the subject… homeruns, rbi’s, runs scored, slugging percentage… and we haven’t even talked about his defensive skills… and he has some defensive skills.

But my wager was that by October 1st, his numbers would be very similar to what they usually are… and we’re talking all his numbers, not just his BA. And I’ll still hold on to that one… join me won’t you?!?

Oh… you wouldn’t be putting my family out in the rain if you take me up on my wager and I lose. We live in my wife’s house!! My house is where the lawnmower and Christmas decorations are stored.

Go Braves… The TPH!!

By bruce

June 19, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

MBATL: let me see if I have your guidance right… turn off modem for 10 minutes, clear cookies then vote again… cool… I might try it.. I am tapped out at the moment… thanks for the scoop. Bruce

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Caleb, Chipper said his hands were OK last night. He went down once on the backhand play late in the game, to brace himself. Said it didn’t feel good, but no problem as far as lingering pain or anything.

Said he knew he probably wouldn’t have his strength back right away, but he’s confident it’ll come and he’ll start hitting balls with more authority.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Andruw’s hitting 6th again tonight. Same lineup as last night, hopefully with the same results (except maybe Andruw and Frenchy get involved this time).

By Armstrong

June 19, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

I really dont see why everyone is so harsh on Chuck James! I mean honestly, the kid is in his second full season as a big leaguer and is, in my opinion, quite successful and our 3rd best starter(whether thats saying alot of not.) Plus he’s doing it without dominant stuff or velocity, he’s just going out there and changing speeds and location. He’s not an ace, but he’s a darn good starter for his experience and age and I wish some of us fans would give him the respect he deserves.

Now with the whole Andruw situtation underway I’m starting to get scared we may resign him this winter. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve watched him for his entire career and I love the kid, but he’s hurt this team and so many ways. His defense will always be missed, but it’s the fact that he is an “Andruw” player and not a “team” player in my eyes. If he would have just listened to his coaches when he was a kid, he would no doubt (in my mind) be one of the top 5 overall players in this game.

Thorman has pretty much hit dead even with my predictions for this year and isn’t doing too bad a job. We’re just spoiled by LaRoche’s breakout season and Gold Glove caliber defense.

Kelly Johnson does deserve to be front running for the starting 2b for the NL but won’t make it there. Nobody knows him except us Atlanta fans. He missed a year and has changed positions and is STILL successful, but that doesn’t matter in the All Star balloting when not many people knows who he is outside of Atlanta.

I would love to see Pete Orr sent down instead of Escobar as well, but you also got to think. Escobar still has LOTS of potential to improve, and isn’t going to do it sitting on the Atlanta bench. Playing everyday in AAA or trading him is the only way he can improve. Unless Chipper takes another vacation.

But overall I am optimistic about this team. I mean, after all that’s happened, look at our record and GB. If everything goes like it should, this team has the potential to make a SERIOUS run at not only the playoffs but the division. Another starter would just help solidify it.

If anyone disagrees with my ‘novel’ of a post please elaborate.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

and Ortiz is playing 1st base, which answers my earlier question. Let’s go Huddy!

By MrC

June 19, 2007 6:46 PM | Link to this

I was stunned by my own expectations. Today I went and looked at Andrew Jones’ career stats. I was stunned by the following:

• He has batted over .277 only once in his 11 year career (.303 in 2000)
• He has struck out over 100 times every full year in his career.
• He has been remarkably consistent batting within 15 points of his career average 8 of his 10 full years.

Having looked at those numbers I realize now that I (and probably many others) have had waaaayyyy too high of expectations for him. He is slower as to be expected with this being his 11th full year of major league baseball.

He will probably end up hitting under .230 for the year. In no way should they even offer him a contract next year. Cut the loses and run.

By Eric from MO

June 19, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

Don Cobuerleone-“since the start of the 2006 season the Atlanta Braves are a .500 team! PERIOD! Last year we were 79-83; so far this year we are 38-33. That is 117-116 for almost a year and a half worth of baseball. .500 ball will not get you into the playoffs (even if your in the NL Central).” What were the Cardinal last year? Here I will help you, 82-80. So apparently .500 ball will get you in the playoffs. Besides last I checked the standings dont include last year.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks. Good to hear about Chipper. It’s just amazing what an influence and effect he has on our entire team when he’s in the lineup.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 6:55 PM | Link to this

Jumping on that Braves Attendance/BoSox Snob sightings train…
From what I understand, the Turner Field attendance problem is mainly two things:

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

DOB, thanks. Good to hear about Chipper. It’s just amazing what an influence and effect he has on the team when he’s in (or out of) the lineup. He makes everyone so much better.

By Eric from MO

June 19, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

Braveheart- In the postseason Clemons cant hold Smotz’z jockstrap. If you dont believe me look at the numbers. Smoltz has a better era, more wins, more strikeouts, and has saves. Game 1 is always a important game in a series because you want to get off to a good start. Game 7 obviously is important. Now look at Clemons numbers in those games and you will see what Im saying. I’d give you the numbers myself but Im way to lazy and my computers way to slow to look up the numbers myself.

By Tim

June 19, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

DOB: You have no explanation for the 30 errors? Edgar and plenty of others say the infield is bad there? Is that not a plausable explanation?

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 6:58 PM | Link to this

Kevin, the Braves do more extensive vision tests than most teams in spring training, which is how Diaz’s depth perception problem was caught to begin with. On the same test, Andruw scored off-the-charts, better than anyone the doc from california had ever tested in sports.

Now, I find it hard to believe they’d do extensive depth-perception tests and neglect to do ordinary vision exams. No, I find it impossible to believe, not hard to believe.

By jbutler

June 19, 2007 7:01 PM | Link to this

I recently took my son (he’s only 4) out to BP here in Colorado. We got there while the Braves were batting - they let us in really close, and about 4 teenage boys rallied to the cause of getting him a ball. One of the Braves (I didn’t see who…but I’m kicking myself now) tried to toss us one that CJ had just hit, and a middle aged man ran in front and grabbed it. I didn’t see what happened after that- since my son then became more enamoured by the mascot..but it was terrific for whichever Brave it was. Very fun- also got to see JS in the bullpen - my son LOVED that.

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 7:08 PM | Link to this

MBATL, quit trying to make sense, just for once … and consider the source! MLB is not interested in the integrity of the game … and certainly not the AllStar game!!

If they were, would they promote multiple voting to determine All Star selections?

Would the endorse the ESPN’s promotion of Home Run Derby … where fans cheer players hitting cripple pitched flyballs?

If they were, I’m not even sure that they would even permit fan involvement in the selection process.

If they were, would they associate World Series home field advantage with the outcome of an exhibition game?

The list is endless and certainly not limited to that one game … and it’s self-indictment is clear.

We’re being held hostage and the ransom is handsome, unwittingly paid by us!

MBATL, you’re not above the law … you have to take it and like it!

Denizen of the Day, I want to congratulate today’s featured denizen … whoever you are!

I’ll bet your’s is probably the best slogan yet. Why don’t you share it with us? I’m sure we would all enjoy it too!

By Braveheart

June 19, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

I agree about Smoltz being better than Clemens, especially in the postseason. Game 7 of any playoff, Clemens is about the last great pitcher I would ever want on the mound. I HATE CLEMENS!

By BravesFanInRockies

June 19, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Thanks for mentioning Dale Watson. He’s too cool for school. About a decade ago I saw him on a record label tour for Hightone. He and Buddy Miller working with Dave Alvin and the Guilty Men. Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys were also on the bill, and the Rev. Billy C. Wirtz was the MC.

Now that was a show.

By DonCoburleone

June 19, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

“It’s pretty clear that the NFL’s Pro Bowl voting system is the best. Three components are weighed equally: fan voting, player voting, and coaches voting. Very rarely are there just bad picks, and you don’t put the pressure/responsibility for reserves on one manager. This would particularly make sense now that there’s been the terrible decision to base World Series home field advantage on it.”

Great idea… But of course that just makes too much sense for good ol’ Selig…

By Bob

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

I am not sure I agree with all this stuff about how difficult it is to get to Turner Field. I live about 1/3 of the way to Athens and have never really had any problem getting to the Ted. If I go to a Thrasher, Falcon or SEC Championship game I take MARTA right to Phillips or the Dome. As someone else mentioned you can get off at Mid-town and take the shuttle to Turner Field. If you drive, there are plenty of parking spaces that are well lit and very safe as well. Gosh, parking is near impossible at Yankee Stadium and Shea is not much better. The Subway off sets that but folks saying Turner Field is hard to get to are making a bogus excuse.

By The Grinch

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

CJ, be serious. DOB probably drinks Zima. :-)

By Eric from MO

June 19, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

Kentavo “Turner Field is too big”- now I will admit St. Louis is a bigger city, however the old Busch Stadium was bigger than Turner Field and we sold that every weekend and sometimes during the week. I live 15 hours from Atlanta and I make more games then some Braves fans (I go to all 3 that are in St. Louis every year). Just go to the damn place and cheer.

By Wayne in Utah

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

Grinch My drink of the day is Nyquil!

By Carolina Lady

June 19, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

What happened to the T-shirt page?

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 7:28 PM | Link to this

Reminds me of that dude in “Prince of Tides” hanging out in Nick Nolte’s living room…Jack Daniel’s and Pepto Bismol. Yowch. Man, Katie Temple’s a little bitty thing; she made B-Mac look 6-5 during that interview on SS. Of course, she’s well-equipped nonetheless. She’s kind of a poor woman’s Suzy Kolber with bigger boobs.

By Braveheart

June 19, 2007 7:30 PM | Link to this

is there a stadium in America that is not difficult to get to?

Cramming 100,000 into tiny little Athens on autumn saturdays really seems to scare people away from going to cheer for their Dawgs.

By Yars

June 19, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Kelly Johnson is making a name for himself in MLB. I’m not shocked that he’s not in the top 5 for NL 2B in all star votes. In the fantasy baseball world, he’s known everywhere now. How many of you now regret not taking a chance on KJ during spring training & lost out on him to an owner who picked him up via free agent wire 1 week before opening day & stashed him away & watched him progress into a solid everyday 2B who is going to have some nice looking stats at the end of the season? .

By rotomeister

June 19, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Dave, is there anyone other than me concerned that “Frenchy” is tied for 40th in the NATIONAL LEAGUE in HR? He just got passed by our own Scott Thorman who has almost 100 fewer at bats.

By MBATL

June 19, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist, of course you’re right. One man, one vote… what a foolish idea! Don’t even know where it came from.

By Sir Stealth

June 19, 2007 7:37 PM | Link to this

Atlanta actually has a significantly bigger metropolitan area than St. Louis (Cardinals fans are legitimately great baseball fans, but not every city can be expected to attain that). Honestly, at the end of the day I’m also fairly disappointed at the attendance for the games. Tickets are actually cheaper than in most cities. Parking is expensive, but not if you carpool, which you should anyway. Driving makes for a great tailgate situation if you get down to the stadium early. If you’ve gone a couple times, you can sorta figure out how to get in and out fairly quickly.

Plus, Turner Field is not in a sketchy part of town at all. Anyone who thinks that has probably never been exposed to places that really are genuinely bad. Plus, when you’re around the stadium you don’t really feel like you’re in any other neighborhood. I agree that the lack of bars and restaurants outside of the stadium, or really anything to do outside the stadium once you drive down there, is pretty bad and that could be part of the problem. I also think that transportation is by far and away Atlanta’s biggest problem so don’t get me wrong about that.

When all is said and done, there are a lot of great Braves fans out there. Better to think about that and thank God you’re not a sad Cubs or BoSox fan who thinks he or she is special because they showed up in a different city with a bunch of other bandwagon fans. I’d like to go back to the days of the sea of tomahawks and 50,000 fans chanting “Sid,” but as long as the people I know are doin it right and the team wins, I’m happy.

By Ed Glennon

June 19, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Here is a stat for you. Most of the Braves’ losses have come when Pere Orr does not start. Peter Gammons gave me that one.

By Caleb

June 19, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

St. Louis a bigger city than Atlanta?? Ummm, I don’t think so. Not even close in size or population. I’ve lived in both places (currently in St. Louis). Atl is definitely bigger. Atlanta has over 5 million people in its metropolitan area and St. Louis has half that (according to wikipedia).

By SaltyWoody

June 19, 2007 7:39 PM | Link to this

DAVID Any chance you’ll be around SF for the all star game and/or the Braves coming to town? Wondering if you get to cover any part of all star weekend and it’d be cool to shake your hand when the Bravos play the Giants in July. Just curious…

P.S. TRADE MCCANN!!!! He only had ONE home run off Curt Schilling last night. Should have at least four or five. Plus, he’s only locked up for the next fourteen years at an affordable rate. Maybe we can get Carl Pavano for him to solidify the rotation! (Sorry, had to remain in keeping with the doomsayer blog theme)

By Bob

June 19, 2007 7:42 PM | Link to this

Twins 5-0 in the second against Sosa. Santana pitching for Minnesota. Phillies 3-0 in second at the Jake.

By P-Town Brave

June 19, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

The Mets already down 5-0 through 2 innings…

I smell blood in the water…LETS GET IT DONE!

By Bob

June 19, 2007 7:57 PM | Link to this

Either there are lots less Red Sox fans there tonight or the Braves fans are just drowning them out. The Lets Go Red Sox chant just began with Manny at the plate and it was easily drowned out by the Braves fans.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

Can Braves shake the doomsayers?

I will go down with this ship. And I won’t put my hands up and surrender. There will be no white flag above my head. I’m a Brave, and always will be.

By Chopin' at the bit

June 19, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

DOB: How does one acquire All Star Tickets? My wife and I would love to make our first trip to Yankee Stadium by attending the 2008 All Star Game. Is there a lottery? I thought The Masters ticket was a hard one to get and I get those almost every year. Please give me some insight?

Good to hear some Braves cheers over the Sox.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

Boy we got lucky on that double play call.

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

My Lady, my earlier post included the same inquiry … rumor has it that Grinch thought the Slogan was Christmas, stole it and refuses to give it back!

Another is that it was too good for this Blog and someone at AJC put it on Ebay … I can’t remember all of it but think it starts “Those …

If we really want to know, Jimmy could investigate … or we could always ask Lamont!

By MEB

June 19, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

You just have to love true baseball fans and I even include unfortunate fans of the Mets in that statement. I think its great that the Red Sox, Cubs, and Mets draw well on the road and I am proud the Braves do as well. I say welcome to Atlanta and I really hope you enjoy your stay. I like to strike up conversations with these folks and get their take on things. I don’t find it surprising that I have a lot in common with other fans of this great game.

Turner Field is a wonderful ball park and modifications are really not necessary. Hey, if Tooner Field makes a kids trip to a ball game more enjoyable, I’m all for it.

GO BRAVES!!!

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

Sosa is stinking it up for the Mets now. It was only a matter of time. And, genious that he is, he started out on fire so as to sew the seeds of respect, confidence, and pride in his teammates and front office. So he should be able to ride out about 6 more of these crappers. This should get entertaining.

By Kim

June 19, 2007 8:10 PM | Link to this

Why, oh why, does Francour insist on swinging at the first pitch every damn at bat???

He is as frustrating as Andruw up there.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Twins just kicked PAT and lead 7-0 at Shea. With Santana on the mound, looks good. Now we need to do our part.

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

HA! 2BB, 8H, 7 R, 6 ER, 3.1 IP. Classic, Sosa!

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 8:18 PM | Link to this

Huddy is looking good so far, whoops I jinxed him…. Where are those Muts fans telling us how Peterson has taught Sosa to pitch? Hope they enjoy his services the rest of the season, Sosa that is.

By Tomahawkin' Again

June 19, 2007 8:21 PM | Link to this

Update from Shea: 7-0 Twinkies. C’mon Bravos, let’s get some runs!

By Greg O.

June 19, 2007 8:26 PM | Link to this

The Mets have seemingly given up on the rest of their game tonight - Now pitching: Aaron Sele.

By Andy

June 19, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

Love your blog as always!! What would Bobby think about platooning Thorman and Salty at first, and letting Salty regularly catch one of starting pitchers. My choice would be Hudson, because Smoltz and McCann work so well together and the other starters need more guidance. And speaking of McCann, I still think he is a great long-term fit and will bounce back in a major way next year or possibly even after the All Star Break. Also, what do you think about playing Escobar regularly at third in late innings and in blowouts? He has great defense and this would help protect the increasingly fragile Chipper. As for a trade, I’m hoping Schuerholz performs some more magic like getting Wickman for virtually nothing last year. We just need a decent back of the rotation journeyman innings eater and should not have to give up the future for one.

By manish boy

June 19, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing how much looser Thorman’s swing looks.It’s like he had a board straped across his back and took it off.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

Please don’t hate me for my long blog attack here. Consider it several, all at once. Or, if you don’t see your name highlighted and you only read what is written directly to you, then scroll on baby…

By Kentavo 5:42 post re: Turner Field attendance: Come on man…get real. Wake up and smell the 21st century of human migration and relocation dude. I disagree (respectfully, mind you) with each point you made in your post but it’s way too long to go a point by point. I’ll just say, bring all the fans over by winning. Now as far as the TV availability outside of ATL…we agree. It stinks.

Lady Chablis 5:53 post: You sweetly whispered, “Savannah Boy, you so sensitive. I’ve got a secret handshake I can teach you. Come see a show sometime this week.”

Hey lady, you’re no Lady. I might live in Savannah but now you’re talkin’ Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil stuff. Thanks but I’ll pass. You ugly.

Bob, Journalist Re-6:21 post: What? Orson Welles once said, “at the time I wrote that only myself and God knew what it meant. Now, I’m afraid only God knows.” After reading your post, I have to say that I think only you and God has any idea what the heck you meant. If I read between the enriched prose, I get that you DO think that blogs, commentators and boos effect professional athletes. Well, of course they do… but not in the extreme. Hey, baseball ain’t golf my friend. But if any pro is ever going to be any good at anything, he/she best not focus on negative press and certainly not fan blogs. Criticism (in many forms) comes with the high-paid territory. If I accept your premise, then A-Rod has accidentally hit gobs of home runs this year because he was so depressed about aforementioned press/fan attention. Anyway…you are a good and clever guy Bob and I like most of your commentary (and humor) so take no offense here ‘cause none is intended. Those that go beyond criticism and personally attack others…now that is an offense we can both agree with when we condemn it. Now, say you agree with me dang-blast-it.

Tampaparrotthead Re-6:36 Post: Ohhhh, nooow I get it. You are changing the bet on me after we shook keyboards on it. Ok, my bet was for batting only. I said AJ would bat 250. or less by season end. You said last years average. To make it interesting, I’ll throw in another 20 points and say 230. But then you also reneged on the amount…first it was your house. Now it’s just the dog house. Hmmm…is it a pretty dog house?

DOB Re-6:58 Post on eye tests: “Andruw scored off-the-charts, better than anyone the doc from california had ever tested in sports.”

Now I get it. It all becomes clear why AJ is slumping. Andruw is missing the baseball because he sees TOO well. While batting, he has his eyes focused on that cotton candy in someone’s hand in the nosebleed section of center field. That makes sense.

Braveheart Re-7:09 Post: You said, “I agree about Smoltz being better than Clemens, especially in the postseason. Game 7 of any playoff, Clemens is about the last great pitcher I would ever want on the mound. I HATE CLEMENS!”

Come on Braveheart…you are normally a voice of reason and humor on this blog…but to say that? Hey, both these guys are great. Just because you love Beethoven doesn’t mean you gotta’ hate Mozart! Or love Haggard, hate Jones or whatever. I know you didn’t mean it. Did you? Nahh…didn’t think so.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this

Twins just sacked Sele for a safety. 9-0 now. Nice throw by McCann.

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

Kim, I can’t see it but and my perception has been called into question but … it doesn’t take much for me to visialize what you’re talking about … be patient with Frenchy, he excells at everything he does … it’s taken him much less time to become so frustrating than it did Andruw … give the kid time, he’s young and has yet to reach his potential!

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

9-0 Twins in the 5th. Talk about June swoon. Braves should really start taking advantage of this.

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Lookin’ good so far…great throw by Brian. Glad to see that again. Is it just me, or does Beckett not look like Lou Diamond Phillips?

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

Damnit Hudson. We just need 1 stinkin out.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this

You guys wouldn’t have BELIEVED how loud the crowd roar was when Oritz hit that bomb. I mean, it’s astounding how many Red Sox fans are here.

By the way, the .190 figure above for Andruw, in the original blog, that was his HOME average, second-worst to Khalil’s. I left out “home.”

OK, back to the game here at Fenway South

By A Purist

June 19, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

1. The All-Star game is inherently stupid. Time is limited - I only watch real games, not exhibitions.

2. To have the All-Star game outcome count for anything (e.g. home field advantage in the world series) is very stupid.

3. If there must be an “All-Star” game then let the players (or managers)chose who goes. Fan balloting is an idiotic popularity contest.

4. Have you seen any of the college world series? Aluminum bats are really stupid - God do I hate that sound. And don’t get me started on middle aged coaches wearing full uniforms with numbers on them.

There, I said it.

By manish boy

June 19, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

That’s embarrassing,the Boston fans cheer louder that ours,in our house.Oh the humility !!

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this

OK, now it’s time to take back the lead.

By Ler

June 19, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

Any bets on Frenchy swinging at the first one??

By Roja

June 19, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

These so-called Braves Fans that are always the naysayers about the Braves and always knocking Chipper and dumping on Andruw are the same people that think professional wresting and NASCAR are “sports”. What else would one expect from such!!!

By Roja

June 19, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

These so-called Braves Fans that are always the naysayers about the Braves and always knocking Chipper and dumping on Andruw are the same people that think professional wrestling and NASCAR are “sports”. What else would one expect from such!!!

By TennesseePaul

June 19, 2007 8:49 PM | Link to this

I’m starting to feel bad for Andruw. This blows. For a while there it all seemed like a typical AJ streak, but he has never been this bad for this long. Hope he gets it figured out soon.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

I think it is time for AJ and Frenchy to get alternating nights off, at a minimum. I hope Bobby doesn’t go for giving into Frenchy playing every game this year. If he stops the streak this early in the year, then later in August won’t mean much.

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this

Way to wear Beckett down. Those 6 pitch innings will do it every time.

By bravefansince54

June 19, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

A few thoughts: stadium first. I’m not an Atlantan, but get up to visits friends and family enough to know, MARTA is an excellent way to go. Grew up in St.Louis and as a 13 yr old would take the Manchester Express from the ‘burbs to the city and transfer to the West Grand Ave bus all the way out to the old Sportsman’s Park. Bad part of town, bad stadium. Don’t want to hear it,folks. Get a life!

Pitching. In an earlier post I said to take a hard look at some of our young guys. Let’s face it, $47M for Schmidt for three years, with one possibly shot and nothing to show for it is just bad business. Makes Hampton’s signing look like a stoke of genius. We need to give these young guys a decent shot. Consider this. Greg Maddox after 2 seasons (26 decisions) had posted ERA’s of 5.52 and 5.61 (he did have 125 K’s and only 85 walks). Tom Glavine after 2 seasons (30 decisions) had better ERA’s (5.54 & 4.56), but his BB/K ratio of 96/104 gave no real hint of his future greatness.

I’m not saying we have a Maddox or a Glavine on staff now (other than Smoltz!), but can anyone say we definitely don’t. Allright. Now, who do you want to pay $47 million to. Keep in mind that Millwood a few years ago turned down 3yrs/$30M. Do we go shopping for one of those guys, or do we sit back patiently and stick with a guy for awhile. We ain’t even gotten started yet. We’re not the Yankees or Huzienga’s Marlins where we can just go out and buy all this high priced talent. Maybe I am naive about this, but it’s the tortoise and the hare. We did it years ago with pitching and some of our hitters (CJ, AJ, Justice). I say don’t go shopping for a high priced fix.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Hudson getting tagged now. Jeez Becket tagged that ball.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

Maybe with Beckett running the bases, he will get off his game??

By PhillyGirl

June 19, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

Dating a Braves fan as I am, I have come to find your bloggers to have a strange outlook on their team.

Your folks don’t seem to get too happy or optimistic when things are going well, but if things hit the skids for just a little while, everybody jumps ship and declares the season over.

It’s actually rather funny, because you guys are 50% similar to Phillies fans. For when the Phils go on a losing streak, the radio call-in shows and sports blogs are overwhelmed by fans looking for someone in the front office to lynch and players to dump.

However, as soon as the team shows signs of life, the mood undergoes a 180 degree change, in that the Phillies suddenly become the best team in sports for whom the sky is the limit. And this is the same with the Eagles and Flyers.

So it is odd how our mood swings go both ways while for you folks in the south they are unidirectional. The good times don’t make you that happy but some rough times (which aren’t that rough in comparison) sure make you upset.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 19, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Okay guys, let’s stop the bleeding right here…. Huddy is getting his pitches up again.

By teoa

June 19, 2007 9:02 PM | Link to this

Cheers, Bob, and excellent choice with the Fraziskaner!

Caleb, thanks — recommendations noted. I know the Pacific Northwest is great for beer. I’ve enjoyed what I’ve tried, but I’m sure lots more good ones don’t make it out of the area. I hope to make it up that way in the near future. And again, allow me to sing the beer praises of Asheville, NC if you’re ever on the East Coast. Highland Brewery makes some really good stuff locally, Bruisin Ales stocks over 400 beers, beer festivals, great bars, etc. Cool little mountain town too if you ever get to go. There’s always a lot going on there.

By cricket

June 19, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this

The only sporting event shorter than a Frencoeur at-bat must be the Mike Tyson knock-outs when he was at the peak of his career.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

Was just noticing on gameday the averages of our lineup tonight:

279 388 331 324 264 203 277 207

Looks like Huddy should be hitting 5th??

By Tomahawkin' Again

June 19, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

Do you think we can maybe work Beckett a little bit longer than 6 pitches this inning? Yeesh! Make this guy work some.

By Eastern Division Duet

June 19, 2007 9:06 PM | Link to this

METS: Anyway you can lose, I can lose bigger. I can lose many ways worser than you.

Braves: No, you can’t.

METS: Yes, I can.

Braves: No, you can’t.

METS: Yes, I can. Yes, I can, Yes, I can!

Braves: Anything you can be I can be worser. Sooner or later, I’m worser than you.

METS: No, you’re not.

Braves: Yes, I am.

METS: No, you’re not.

Braves: Yes, I am. Yes, I am. Yes, I am!

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

PhillyGirl, it’s too hot down here to be happy.

By Greg O.

June 19, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

PhillyGirl,

Thanks! You’ve just made 15 more Braves fans jump off a bridge by basically saying that Atlanta fans are worse than Philadelphia fans. But I’ll guarantee you that Atlanta fans would never boo Santa.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 19, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this

My Oh My…… Looks like there are some pretty good center fielders out there besides Andruw….

By Bob

June 19, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

Teoa,

Yeah but unless this game turns around I might have to drink a Bud. Just kiddin.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 9:17 PM | Link to this

I remember in the late 70’s or early 80’s, the SF Giants tried to get one of those mascots. They marched out something similar to the SD Chicken or Phillie Phanatic, and called him the “Crazy Crab”. The Giants fans booed him incessantly, and they had to get him out after a couple of weeks.

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

And so, Huddy is either headed to no decision or his sixth consecutive loss vs. Boston….

SaltyWoody, yes, I’ll be making two trips to San Francisco in July, one for the All-Star Game and one for the Braves series a couple weeks after that.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

OK Oscar, lets see what you got?

By TristenK

June 19, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

C’mon Braves announcers…enough with the complaining about the teams interleague schedule….we’ve heard it already.

Get on the internet during the day…make a few phone calls—give us something fresh.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 19, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Wayne… I can understand how crabs would be so unpopular in San Francisco. :-)))

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 9:24 PM | Link to this

Man, my MOM (who only started seriously watching baseball this season) just called and asked me why Tim Hudson was only just now getting pulled. Ridiculous.

By Lost in the Haight

June 19, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Crazy Crab was real, man?

I thought it was the acid kicking in.

Wow. Bummer.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

Dang it. For some reason XM lost the Braves feed and have switched to the Bosox broadcast…..

Nothing worse than hearing about your team’s game from the perspective of the team that is beating you!

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

Fenway South…funny. Fitting.

SeemsBoSox has our number tonight. Was hoping, for just one game we would see Andruw get a hit and Frenchy take the first pitch. Not in the cards right now. Maybe move Jeff ahead of AJ…then he wouldn’t unconciously mimick Andruw. It’s gotta be mind-bending standing there in the batters box watching the ‘droid take those anemic, tentative swings.

To make matters even more frustrating for AJ, he seems to be starting some “out avoidance” defensively. Maybe if he melts down completely he’ll get mad and turn it around. Or maybe he’ll just melt and stay gooey…

Is Huddy hurting, slumping or just beginning the end of his ace-dom? Speaking of melting…

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 9:28 PM | Link to this

Nothing is worse than Philly fans. The only fan base I can even say is close would be the West Virginia Mountaineers. Anything from throwing batteries, urinating on a vetern’s car, to crapping in the stands has been witnessed from that group of neanderthals.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

Eastern Division Duet: funny. Very original.

Grinch: Mom’s know best. They don’t need to know history, stats, pedigree, the “book”…they just know what they see. Love’em.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Rile him up McCann. Somethings gotta give. Get in Becketts head.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

when things are going well, you don’t want a rain delay.

RAIN BABY, RAIN.

By P-Town Brave

June 19, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

And that’ll just about do it for my listening pleasure tonight…We had our chances and didn’t get it done and our only luck now is a long rain delay and Bobby forgets that Jeff and Bad-druw are still on the team after and the Sox forget how to pitch…

Now at .202 the march to best Mendoza is fast approaching

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 9:41 PM | Link to this

Is it raining cats and dogs, or dogs and cats?

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this

One possible good thing is if it quits raining, then probably Beckett will not return. Maybe we can get something going against their pen.

The Bosox announcers are saying that Clemens went back to Boston for a MRI on his shoulder/arm. Dang, does that mean he is going to miss one of his kid’s kindergarten graduation parties??

By OddJob

June 19, 2007 9:46 PM | Link to this

Roja Would a saynayer be the same as a naysayer ? I’m a rasslin and racin fan and too preoccupied by my sister’s earthy good looks to feger it out.

By Meanie

June 19, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Hey PhillyGirl use protection. We don’t like mixing Braves and Phillies. Something about a pompous jackass with a southern drawl just don’t mix…

By David O'Brien

June 19, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

I’d say it’s more cats and dogs, than dogs and cats.

And if this game isn’t continued, it’s a Boston win. It’s an official game as is.

But I’d imagine we’re going to play again out here.

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

I thought the rain delay would be a good opportunity to get a quick ride in on my motorcycle, but after checking the radar I see we are heading for lots of rain so I guess it’s time for a few adult beverages.

I have grown tired of sitting under bridges waiting for the rain to pass & everyone driving by in cars looking at me like I’m some sort of an idiot because I didn’t know it was going to rain.

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this

Gil, that was harsh.

Sav. Guy, no doubt. And Hudson, McCann and Willie are her favorite players…sometimes things are just as they seem.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Wayne in Utah,

I think they meant Shilling, not Clemens. We heard it was Shilling.

By Robert

June 19, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

An interesting blog. DOB, you point out two big problems - one being the fact that Andru is still in the middle of the order, and two the recent blown late lead (the problem is actually several bungled late leads)

but you dont give even a hint of what might be perpetuating these problems

We’re playing listlessly and have a less than perfect team to begin with, but are only one game back

Despite everything, we’d be 5 or more games in front if we had a halfway competent manager

That’s very sobering

Meanwhile - Yes, some of us do think Andruw has slipped badly. There’s plenty of reason to think that way

By Robert

June 19, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this

“All that shows me, is that this team is very young, and they “play to theire opponants”.”

Playing to the level of the opponent, as opposed to consistantly playing to the level of their abilities, is a HALLMARK of a poorly managed team

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

Savanah, I don’t think my message was burried so deep in the onion that many missed it … though it/they was/were intended to be layered.

I trust we agree on the elements … it’s the weights given to each and the resultant compound where we may differ. I’ve forgotten my chemistry but, if memory serves, there’s a big between HSO2 and H2SO or H2SO4!

Yes, I certainly agree with your point … at least to a point and I think that we probably actually share the same fundamental position. Mine was intended more as a clarifying appositive than an expression of strong conflicting opinion.

Again I apologize for any obliqueness but I couldn’t hide my meaning from you … no, not you.

I certainly agree that successful, seasoned performers must and do have focus and they, almost by definition, most have mastered the art of steeling themselves against competing forces.

That said, such mechanisms are imperfect and they are all most certainly impacted to some extent by positive and negative input received from many sources, including us … as methinks most performers read their clippings and notices, regardless of protestations.

I think it is obviously magnified when such input is different than what is expected. I’m pretty sure that it’s greatest upon the less seasoned performers … as well as seasoned tempermental superstars … but my point was and is that no one is immune.

However, I certainly wasn’t suggesting that negative input always results in negative impact or that positive input always has a positive influence. My concern is with the harsh negative input and boorish negatism because it’s potentially harmful and to think that ours is an inaccessible island is inane.

As someone once told me over long ago, “if folks aren’t completely sure there isn’t life after death, it’s best that they behave as if there is!”

Translating, since we know members of the team … players and management … are possibly aware of what we post, we should conduct ourselves as we think best, relative to supporting the players and team in their efforts to perform well. If we don’t we aren’t holding up our end of the bargain.

I would hope and do think that while everyone expresses themselves differently whether it be as a result of the Syntax or the Sin Tax, … and assigns different weights to the elements … that this is one family of compounds upon which we can really agree.

By ed Glennon

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

Do you think Andruw will get a hit before Bonds breaks Aaron’s record?

By Bob

June 19, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this

Bad news at the Jake…Phils win and now Marlins have tied Chisox

By Bob

June 19, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this

Ed Glennon,

At this rate it might be next April for both events.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist: Man, you are on a roll tonight.

So, Villarreal is back out. Must be an iron man. Guess he kept throwing during the rain.

Prediction: the rain will turn the tide on this game. And, Frenchy will NOT swing at the first pitch next time he’s up…

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

dammit Frenchy…first pitch AGAIN!!!!

When playing poker, does he bet before he looks at his cards?

By Robert (Justice Is The Best)

June 19, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Its been a long time since I have been on here. I have been in the process of moving back home to Oklahoma and am just now getting settled. However, I have kept up with my beloved Braves.

These guys need a starter. If they can get a decent starter, they have a legitimate shot to win the East.

As for Andruw, I don’t know what to say. It is beginning to look like that $20 mil a year contract is more of a pipe dream than reality.

By teoa

June 19, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Bob, believe me, I’m not above slumming it with the cheap stuff when necessary. I just meant that I think it’s crazy to talk about Bud as a matter of preference. But you’re right, this kind of game puts a bad taste in your mouth anyway, so why not save your Franziskaners for a better night? Maybe tomorrow? Carlyle? I don’t know…

By LT

June 19, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this

Man Pete Orr sucks!

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

LOL Savannah Guy, Here we call that raising in the dark. Not good for winning, but it usually builds a damn good pot for someone.

Does Bobby Cox have a TAKE sign?

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Man, Chad looked like a mad Rhino running toward first.

By Todd A

June 19, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

Will someone please remind me again why Francoeur is the future face of this organization?

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

What is the word on why Edgar came out?

By Bob

June 19, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

Savannah Guy,

Got word that Frenchy is going to go to Andruw for advice on how to get out of his slump.

By LT

June 19, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

DOB, does Pete Orr know he sucks as bad as he does?

If so, does anyone think he gets out of bed every morning thinking, “Today everythings gonna change! I’m suckin no longer!”

By A.J.

June 19, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Whoever is announcing this game with Joe on Sports South does not get it. He seems to think that having a .299 first pitch batting average for Francouer means, and that being higher than his season average means that is good. He even said that going for the first pitch was “working.”

But the count average only accounts for when that pitch ends the at bat. So in reality while he does have 20 hits on the first pitch, he also has 47 outs. Plus all of the times he didn’t hit or get out he just had a 0-1 count on him and I guarantee that from then on his AVG only gets worse.

A good first pitch average is close to .500. That means that half of the time you contact the first pitch you get a hit.

I’m sure most of you knew that anyway, I just had to vent when I heard a professional announcer say that swinging at the first pitch is “working.” How could any amateur say that after seeing Jeff the last couple weeks.

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Well this is it, the best chance to get back in it. Top of the order is up.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this

Marlins take lead on Chisox in 9th.

By Todd A

June 19, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

The bad thing about Andruw is he’s playing his way into our price range.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

Rally hats on. Oh, Bob, Journalist…do you write for High Times by any chance?

Just funnin’ round. Yer cool. Guess most blogizens took a night off so there’s nobody to poke. Is it slow in here or is just me?

By Over Andy

June 19, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

fastasballs

That’s a question I’ve had for a long time now. It’s clear that sometimes Francouer needs to be saved from himself. Take away his aggressivness my butt, it’s not about being aggressive, it’s about a guy with his head up his *!

If Francouer doesn’t have enough self control to take it easy and wait for the right moment….. I feel sorry for his girlfriend!

Give him a take sign for christs sake!

By bruce

June 19, 2007 10:58 PM | Link to this

I have more than one e-mail address and just voted successfully changing only the e-mail id…. maybe they do some checking later and delete… but they did not stop when the name and dob are the same.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 10:59 PM | Link to this

RJITB: Good to hear from you! Hope all is well with the move.

Good point on AJ, although I don’t think a $20 million dollar deal is out of the question……………..for 4 years maybe??

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Savannah, it’s not an onion roll … just layers of shaved ham, turkey, cheese and tomato with lots on mayo.

It’s still not too late but I’m going to roll out of here!

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this

You-kill-us man!

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

A.J.: Yep, I heard that first pitch stuff too. Nonsense. Braves PR. No more no less. Talk like that is not doing Frenchy any favors if he hears it.

By The Grinch

June 19, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Wow.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Gotta have lots of mayo!!

By Todd A

June 19, 2007 11:11 PM | Link to this

It’s becoming apparent that Francoeur is just another great athlete with a “10 cent head.”

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

That looked like a promising inning. It’s not their night, the few they do hit on the nose is right at someone or an amazing catch is made by the Sox.

Go at it tomorrow & try to take 2 of 3.

By Daxxed

June 19, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Once again..runner on first and second and no bunt…Why not…instead we hit into double play…no runs….this is the Braves way of playing…and it is going to cost them this season for not getting at least one run in when they have runners on and no outs…

By Bob, Journalist

June 19, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Savannah, if you get lonely, it can be challenging to see under how many names you can post, keeping a reasonable dialog going without getting hoisted … or having anyone realize what you’re doing … no identity theft allowed!

We have an agreement in our family … my brother is a member of the screen writer’s guild … he doesn’t do numbers and I don’t do words … that’s why I don’t make sense and my syntax is crazy. Unfortunately, it’s also true that he makes the dillars and I can’t even make the cents.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 19, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

McBride has lost it again….. DOB, do not confuse my lack of negativity for a lack of passion, I just choose the half full side of life as opposed to half empty. My reasons are as a result of being exposed to life long history of negativity and find it to be destructive in the long run.

Fans in the south tend to be more polite than their counterparts in the northeast. This is not necessarily a bad thing.

By Savannah Guy

June 19, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Both of my predictions were, well…wrong. Frenchy did swing at the first pitch and, worse than that, the tide did actually change after the rain. Trouble is, it became a tsunami out of the northeast. I’ll be at the game tomorrow night. Looks like a rubber match is in the works. I’ll be wearing nothing particularly distinguishing and drinking a plastic bottled beer. Look for me.

By Bob

June 19, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Daxxed, Not sure I would want to see a sac bunt trailing by 4 in the 8th and Pappeljon in their pen. Earlier yeah, but not in the 8th.

By P-Town Brave

June 19, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

And the .200 mark will be met tomorrow night at 6:35…be there to watch it all unfold on ESPN in about the 2nd inning

By Todd A

June 19, 2007 11:23 PM | Link to this

Daxxed It’s because Cox still thinks he’s playing in the American league.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

One positive out of this game is that Andruw didn’t strike out ANY!

Oh well, tomorrows another day!

By OddJob

June 19, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this

Gil like the words to a song from the monty python film life of Brian..you’ve got to look on the bright side of life.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me??? Bunt with 2 runners on, 4 runs behind, with only one inning left, and their closer ready for the ninth?????

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

They were down by four in the 8th. Two runs are useless at that point. You have to play for the big inning because their stud closer is coming in the 9th.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

fastasballs: dead on your last comments, same time stamp too!

By Bob

June 19, 2007 11:36 PM | Link to this

Wayne, you echo my thoughts exactly. With some of these guys ANY MOVE Cox makes is subject to second guessing. Thanks, but I will pass on sacrifice bunting in the 8th and down by 4.

By Wayne in Utah

June 19, 2007 11:42 PM | Link to this

Has anybody heard anything on Aybar and Lerew?

By P-Town Brave

June 19, 2007 11:44 PM | Link to this

When Bad-druw goes 0 for his first 3 tomorrow night, he will officially be at .199 therefore what are the odds that BC sits him after 0 for 2 to prolong that into Friday?

Also, maybe you can help me on this one DOB…I think the last regular player that hit under .200 for a season and played more than 130 of his teams games was Rob Deer in 1991…is that correct?

By fastasballs

June 19, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Aybar is in a undisclosed location, rehab maybe? I have not heard a thing, but I highly doubt he’s in a Braves uniform anytime soon.

Wayne & Bob, Glad to see everyone has not lost their minds on the blog. I’ll second guess Bobby when the time is right, but this was a decision or non-decision that even a little league manager could make. If that ball from Escobar bounches off of Yuk’s glove(which it almost did), the bases are loaded with none out& Chipper coming up. You don’t play for one when you can get four, when you are down four in the 8th.

By mr baseball

June 19, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Sorry if this offends, but stupidity is running rampant on the blog tonight.

1) Turner Field needs to reduce capacity by about 10,000 to keep Red Sox/Cubs/Mets fans out. Brilliant. And on the occasional weekend nights when 45,000 or so Braves fans might want to attend game, about 5,000 of you can just stay home. Anyone seriously bothered by having fans of other teams in attendance needs to grow up. Past attendance problems aside, the idea is especially moronic come playoff time. If the Braves ever return to the post-season.

2) Let’s divide up our starters and have Carlyle & Cormier split one game and James & Davies another. Cormier isn’t even on the active roster, and needs to stay that way. Maybe if the idea had a shred of intelligence, someone in baseball history might have tried it. Guess what? No one has. There’s lots of reasons that don’t need to be spelled out. That leaves pretty much the entire bullpen to pitch on nights that Oscar starts. Try again. This ain’t Little League.

3) 2 on, no outs in the 8th, down 4 runs. Here’s a great idea: sacrifice bunt. Hands down, the dumbest post of the night and a contender for most idiotic of the year. I think Robert would agree that not even Donk himself would consider that. Wonder if the genius who offered that astute piece of strategy would have voiced that opinion if Escobar’s grounder had made it into left field & loaded the bases.

4) The person responsible for excusing Andruw’s ongoing slump by finding some obscure stat to compare him to Sizemore is usually too knowledgeble to throw out something that ridiculous. Sizemore has the same number of homers and is hitting at least 75 points higher than our unparalleled out maker. To mention the two of them in the same sentence is way beneath the intelligence level of he who shall not be named and is a testament to the abuse of meaningless statistics.

Back to pre-guessing what horrors our Hall of Fame manager will commit with his batting order tomorrow.

Will Andruw be in the lineup, and if so, will he be in the 8th spot, where he belongs and can do the least damage to the team?

Will BC continue to hit Chipper 4th even though it is patently obvious that he is incapable of hitting anything other than a single? I know it’s heresy, but if all he’s going to do is hit singles & walk, why not move him to the top of the lineup and have Kelly Johnson, who still is capable of an extra base hit, bat 3rd or 4th. Way too radical for our checkers playing cheerleader.

AND WE’RE STILL ONLY 1 1/2 BACK. GOOD GRIEF.

By Savannah Guy

June 20, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist: Not to worry Braves brother…your words are just fine by me. You are always a gentleman, sir. Now, for posting under different names…I don’t do it, it’s not honest and wish folks wouldn’t do it (it would be pretty pathetic, really). We should be who we are…stand by what we post (and sometimes suffer the dings when we get carried away, which we all do from time to time). A blog is like a running dialog with the most diverse among us. Sometimes its a mosh pit. But most of us have one thing in common: We are Braves fans, we like to blog on this new-media forum and we obviously have idle time. All good.

fastasballs: On cards and Frenchy’s first strike swings: Looks like raising in the dark built the BoSox pot tonight and we got trumped…or trounced. Since there are no aces, maybe a little duces wild tomorrow night will do it for us. By the way, did you win the DOB t-shirt slogan contest thingy? Honorable mention?

On tonight and random musings: Beckett is a man. Coco Crisp is amazing. I used to watch him play Sally League ball in Savannah for the Sand Gnats. What a catch he made robbing Huddy. DOB musta’ been over at Skip and Pete’s chompin’ on some BBQ tonight. The NL East is not going to be a horse race this year…more like a dog fight. Oops, sorry Vick.

On that note, I’m hitting the roost pole. Rubber game on the morrow.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

Savannah, you proved my point though it needed little support as I’m always right except when I think I’m wrong … and in those rare moments of doubt, I quickly convince myself of the folly in so thinking.

For if indeed I was on a roll … whatever that means … ‘twas only because I was playing to my audience and inspired by you! Remember, twas Beauty that killed the beast!

I’ve had the good fortune to see several plays, one star performances, and musicals multiple times during their runs … and no two were alike, though they were so intended.

I know that Hudson didn’t fully live up to expectations … make that hopes … but I always dislike giving the loss to one whose team has scored no runs!

However, we tend to evaluate our team as if it was the only one playing … if we do bad, it’s because we stink, not because of the their pitching, fielding or hitting.

We have a flawed lineup, namely Anfruw, Frenchy … and Scott; regardless of current performances. They have flaws, above and/or below the neck and they will continue to be exploited until they are corrected.

Such things should be left to God and Lamont Cranston but from my perspective, Scott is the least worrisome since his are the less ingrained of the flaws and probably easier to correct … and his ego is probably less of a hindrance than either of the other two.

I don’t mean that negatively but when you believe strongly in yourself, have failed when following the well intending, misguided advice of your peers, and have an “I gotta be me” attitude, it’s got to be difficult … no matter how hard you try.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

Grinch said

“Man, my MOM (who only started seriously watching baseball this season) just called and asked me why Tim Hudson was only just now getting pulled”

That’s GREAT. In other words, someone who is new and hasnt been exposed to the propaganda and is drawing their OWN conclusions, sees Cox for what he is

JIB said - ” It is beginning to look like that $20 mil a year contract is more of a pipe dream than reality.”

BeGINing?

Mr baseball said - “2 on, no outs in the 8th, down 4 runs. Here’s a great idea: sacrifice bunt. Hands down, the dumbest post of the night and a contender for most idiotic of the year. I think Robert would agree that not even Donk himself would consider that”

I agree that bunting in that situation would be stupid. However, exactly because it is stupid, I wouldnt be at ALL surprised to learn that Donk considered it, or to see him do it (now of all times)

If there’s a stupid move to be made, I fully expect its consideration to rattle around between Donk’s long ears

By Bob

June 20, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

mr. baseball,

Tell us what you really think!!!

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

Mr. Baseball: WOW, we are agreeing on stuff!

As for the Sizemore comparison, hasn’t he batted leadoff for a lot of the season??

Its early here, but late there, and I will be getting up with the chickens tomorrow. So, goodnight all!

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this

Braves lose. Mets lose. Magic Number is 94! Keeps going down even though we ain’t winning.

If you guys think we are down, switch your internet tuner right now to WFAN. The Mets fans are suicidal. They are already planning and predicting their demise. They think that if they allow us to pass them, it will spiral completely out of control up there. They don’t sound any better than any of us. Is that a good thing or a bad thing that we sound about as negative as Mets fans?

Since we all are angry, why don’t we call into WFAN and tell them how much the mets suck? Anyone up for pulling some pranks on their airwaves? We have got to set up a Buddy Ryan style bounty system. A free blog tee for the first five to call in to WFAN and do the Tomahawk Chop chant. Throw in some oh, the humanity, toes are not to trifled with, Holy Cornelia, the Mets are Whitesnaking, DOB is the ODB!, and CARROLL’S HOT!. They won’t get it but it will be funny for us nevertheless.

Perhaps we should wait until we get back into first before we execute this attack. Until then we can just keep planning the avalanche of pranks.

Savannah, I HATE CLEMENS! I am not rational at all about that one.

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

Good points Savannah and Bob, Journalist. I was really frustrated to read the article that Bowman wrote on Andruw on the Braves site today. Sounds like so much excuse making. “Things just not going right” “Contract is not a worry” and on and on. It is clearly obvious he is in a terrible funk, and will not admit it.

I know I am probably wasting my keystrokes here, as many of you agree with me. BUT, I get so tired of the second guessing of Bobby Cox. I am a perfect baseball manager in hindsight. Anybody would be. There is NEVER any mention of the good that he does, only the second guessing after the fact. Since none of us are the owners, I don’t think he cares what we think about his managing.

While I would love to see Bobby sit Andruw, I am not about to say he is an idiot because he doesn’t, because that is HIS responsibility to play it the way he sees fit to. Some of the things he is castigated for on this blog are the VERY things that have made him successful over the past 20 years.

So, now I have gotten that off my chest, I can rest well tonight!

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

Found what I was lookin for…where is DOB anyways

Ok…so here goes, the last player w/ more than 130 games played in a season and 500+ at-bats to hit even close to .200 was Pat Burrell in 2003 at 146 gp and 522 ab w/ 109 hits which equates to a .209 avg

Now the last person to hit under .200 w/ over 130 gp was Ruben Rivera in 1999 w/ the Padres, however, he only had 411 ab’s, which will be quite a bit less than Bad-druw may end up w/…and Deer was the next previous back in 1991 at 450 ab w/ 134 gp at a healthy .179 for the Tigers..surprisingly he had 89 walks for a .314 obp, BUT he also had 175 K’s, which Bad-druw will get close to or surpass this season..he may even challenge Dunn’s 195 K record

By fastasballs

June 20, 2007 12:25 AM | Link to this

* Savannah Guy* I’ve been lost on the whole T-Shirt thing to be honest. I was just joking when I suggested it, but seems as though somebody at the AJC liked the idea. There was no way the original “I got reamed by DOB while blogging on the AJC” was going to make the cut, lol.

The virtual T-Shirt is gone from the sports page, think it was only there a few days. I saw a few blog regulars make the blogger of the day, or whatever they were calling it. Is there actually going to be a T-Shirt that can be bought or won? I have no idea. Maybe DOB can shed a little light. He may be too busy telling everyone that he is NOT the same guy that was on ESPN last night.

Is there really any point to Andruw staying in the line up? He can barely lay wood on the ball, much less hit with authority. If he breaks out of this slump or whatever you call it at this point within the next week I’ll run naked in the streets.

Speaking of AJC promotions, Why don’t they sponsor an AJC/DOB blog night (weekend)at the park. I know half or more of this blog lives no where near Atlanta, but with a years notice I think an easy crowd of 100-200, including family, dogs, drunk friends & mother-in-laws (just kidding) can be had.

Granted after typing this idea I don’t think it would be worth any great pubilicity by the AJC, but would be a rather entertaining group to say the least. If nothing else, beer sales at the Ted & other local Atlanta watering holes would skyrocket for sure.

By HP

June 20, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Where are the mets fans for last two weeks on these blogs? Maybe, they are not here because they realize that mets are not that good as they thought they would be.

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 12:27 AM | Link to this

Did someone forget to wipe their A$$ after taking a dump??? It sure smells in here! Or, could it be that “he who must not be responded to” has returned???

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

* BraveDude* Hate is such a strong word. I like to say that I thoroughly dislike Mr. Clemens and his prima-donna attitude. I hope he has a 3-7 record, with a 4.97 ERA this year.

By Berigan

June 20, 2007 12:29 AM | Link to this

You know…a bunt may not be the smartest move down by 4 in the 8th, but, how often do we have runners on first and second, no outs, and nothing happens? Well,nothing besides a double play….

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Good research P-Town. This may well be the worst free-agent contract drive in history. At least big-time free-agent contract drive.

Holy Cornelia, he’ll never get to .250. Maybe not even .235. Just mind-boggling how bad he’s been lately.

It’s .169 in his last 45 games.

By Berigan

June 20, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

P-Town Brave,

Where is DOB??? Saying to himself, crap, another loss….I won’t be able to shake the doomsayers tonight! ;)

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Berigan: you gotta play for the win, not play for making the loss a respectable one, regardless of what you have done in the past month.

In April we wouldn’t be having this conversation.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 12:38 AM | Link to this

And to think, a lot of us pooh-poohed the idea last season when the Andruw/Red Sox rumors were floating and Coco Crisp was involved.

Right now, woud you rather … oh, nevermind.

He made a helluva play tonight, for sure. Should be No. 1 or No. 2 on the ESPN plays of the day, I’d imagine, unless they put some lame “ping” play from the Omaha aluminum-bat World Series on there.

By Coach (NOT DRINKING THE KOOL AID)

June 20, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

We are 3-0 on ESPN and thats the good news. Andruw is 10 for 76 in June (.131 AVG) and 0 for his last 18 (.205 for the season) as DOB has already alluded to. Read Chippers latest comments on Andruw at the Braves/MLB website , he is fed up with the situation just as much as we are. Cox is managing as if he wants to retire and the beat goes on in happy happy blogland………..

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 12:41 AM | Link to this

Dave: In case you are sticking around a few minutes. With Andruw’s struggles, do you think that he and the Braves are/should be entertaining a one year contract extension? That might relieve some of the pressure from him, and maybe, just maybe get him on the right track.

There are some down sides to that idea though. What if he continues the slump year long??? Maybe that’s not such a good idea after all.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 12:43 AM | Link to this

Shaun said

“My argument would be Andruw’s struggles are due to bad luck a lot more than many of us would like to admit.”

For his career - Andru Jones has 1329 K’s in 6095 at-bats - 21.8%

This season, it’s 73K’s in 259 AB - 28.2%

Now, follow me here. Apply the career rate to his 259 at-bats this season, that gives you 56 K’s. Take the 17 K’s you save, and turn ‘em into hits, which would give him 70 (instead of 53) in 259 at-bats, and his batting average is .270

It aint batting average on balls in play

It aint bad luck

It’s bad technique

And poor fundamentals

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

I’m strapping on the leotard before I run to my car in this rain.

By The Truth Hurts

June 20, 2007 12:53 AM | Link to this

If A-Rod can hit 8th at one point, our lower-than-whale-turd hitting centerfielder can, too.

I neither think Cox is a barnyard animal nor a “great” in-game strategist, for his strength lies elsewhere, but come on…A.J. batting 6th, again? This is becoming boring.

It’s hard to go on a winning streak with this pitching staff. Beckett always kills us, but tonight aside, it’s one step forward, one step back.

Bob, Journalist, methinks Gandalf and Aragorn would pop out of your posts if they became any more prose-y.

Not criticizing, mind you…I know how journalists can be in that department…every style on here contributes. Except for those that beat the same drum over and over again, that is.

By fastasballs

June 20, 2007 12:54 AM | Link to this

Another thing I have on my mind regarding Andruw, the Brave’s announcers said tonight that he doesn’t even think about hitting or his slump until he gets to the ballpark. Of course Simpson was saying how that was “Good, yada, yada, yada” Typical BS you get when they can’t say what they really think.

I don’t make 14 million a year & I come home and think about my screw ups at work & how not to make them tomorrow. Granted, I’m my own boss, but still, how does Andruw just make his troubles “vanish” when he goes home? Anybody out here wired like Andruw? I still maintain he’s never going to be a guy who can overcome adversity (God I hate that phrase). His mental makeup seems week, always has to an extent I guess.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 12:55 AM | Link to this

Savanah, I’ll close for the evening with the notion that “the silence was deafening” was a remarkable observation by whomsoever it was who first made it.

Actually both Orson Welles and George Patton came to mind when I when groping for those words … you’ll never know the circular path I was trying weave … from the begining to the end of the post … for like the wonderfully amazing Mr. Welles, I too have forgotten.

As an aside, earlier, I wasn’t trying to suggest that the impact of which we were “speaking” was venue independent but that the impact was there, regardless of venue.

Well, actually, that wasn’t an aside since your reference to golf was the mind trigger for the post.

It’s interesting that, without explanation, the Blog’s “Denizen Of The Day / Get Sloganized” was seemilgly removed from the AJC Braves page … alles is nicht in Ordung!

One would have thought that David O’B would have made some reference or given some explanation.

Goodnight Miss Allen

By Headline

June 20, 2007 1:01 AM | Link to this

Time to trade this team for a used condom and some cheetos ….. Stale product and just a Loser all the way around. Just go on a road trip and just don’t return. Maybe their plane will be lost at sea or hijacked to Cuba. Bye Bye Cox, you retard.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

“While I would love to see Bobby sit Andruw, I am not about to say he is an idiot because he doesn’t”

Bobby Cox isnt an idiot because he doesnt sit Andruw

Bobby Cox doesnt sit Andruw because he is an idiot

Big, and fundamental, difference

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 1:06 AM | Link to this

Good points fastasballs. I too don’t think AJ is the most capable to handle this sort of adversity.

It did sound like Hoss was getting a bit frustrated with him in the story on the Braves site today, huh.

I am making a big assumption, but it seems from the outside looking in that the arrogance and stubborndness of star players can really get in their way of constructive help. He will probably just “luck” himself out of the slump someday.

Gotta run (didn’t I say that 45 minutes ago?)

By fastasballs

June 20, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

Coach Good, I’m glad Chipper is starting to speak out about Andruw hurting the team. He’s basically saying what many have said here for months. Andruw is too pig headed to change his approach or thinking & will continue to struggle until he does.

The Braves have never been an organization that allows it’s players to publically trash other players, but Chipper got the point across in a professional tone. Andruw is the type of guy who is NOT going to change without outside interference, be it teammates or Cox. He needs the criticism to get out of this, even that might not help, but saying nothing & doing nothing is saying to Andruw to keep on doing what you’re doing, we’re behind you no matter how much you cost the team.

By Berigan

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

fastasballs, That’s interesting if Andruw doesn’t really think about this slump away from the park. One would normally think that was a good thing, not to dwell on it, but I can think of no hitter ever having a average career BA having this bad a season! I remember Mike Lowell stinking it up his last year in Florida, but just looked, and his homers and RBI’s were down, but he hit a robust .236….gee, if only Andruw could end up the year hitting .236!!! He’d have to hit about .270 the rest of the season!

By fastasballs

June 20, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

Oh & another thing, IF Cox has to continue to play Andruw, which he will no doubt, why does he not split Andruw & Frenchy up in the order? Bat Frenchy Thorman & then Andruw. You can’t keep sending a free swinger & a free out up back to back. Everytime those two hit in the same inning the opposing pitcher throws under 10 pitches in the inning.

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

Broken Frickin Record Robert: Why don’t you take a hike? It was so much more pleasant before you logged in. You have got to be the most jealous person on this entire blog, as all you can do is slam those who have succeeded, and it tears you up doesn’t it that Bobby Cox IS the manager of the Braves, and WILL be until HE decides otherwise!

Do your neighbors like you? Does your mother call you on your birthday?? Those are typical signs that should not be ignored.

I think someone just pulled up to the drive-up, so get your keister back to work!

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 1:17 AM | Link to this

Just passing through…Wayne, there’s a reason it looks like I’m second guessing in hindsight. Let’s take a common occurance: A pitcher comes strolling out to start a new inning when he was obviously gassed/out of stuff in the previous one. Believe me (and ask anyone who knows me/watches games with me) that I usually say at the time “Oh, no. Nothing good can come of this. Why, oh lord, why? Then he gives up a lead off walk, followed by a hit, followed by another walk, followed by a bases clearing triple, THEN the bullpen starts to get warm. By the time I’m done recovering from this train wreck and step over to the computer to add my shouts out into cyberspace because my neighborhood is too small to contain my anguish at the senselessness of it all, it’s technically after the fact. Add in the 5 minute delay after I hit the post key, and there you are.

By Wolfpack Man

June 20, 2007 1:19 AM | Link to this

The .199 Watch is on

If Andruw goes 0-for-3 or 1-for next-8 then he will be below the Mendoza line. This is unbelievable. I mean this is a slump that has reached amazing proprotions that Reggie Sanders(1999) would be of.

It’s similar to watching a train wreck. You don’t want to see it happen, but it is captivating as well.

By Wayne in Utah

June 20, 2007 1:27 AM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man: Actually, Reggie Sanders is having a good season, last time I checked.

By Berigan

June 20, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this

Reggie Sanders hit .232 in 1999. I HOPE Andruw will be at .232 at the end of the season!!!

Ok, someone, anyone give me a good answer to this question, please!(I keep asking it different ways, and will keep doing it, til Andruw is hitting, a F.A., or released) Why not rest Andruw for a game, at the minimum one lousy stinkin’ game??? Is there no way a day off could help him? Helped Thorman it seemed….

By Robert

June 20, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

“You have got to be the most jealous person on this entire blog, as all you can do is slam those who have succeeded, and it tears you up doesn’t it that Bobby Cox IS the manager of the Braves, and WILL be until HE decides otherwise!”

It does tear me up that Cox manages the Braves, because I am a Braves fan, and it tears me up to see WS caliber teams become division champions, and playoff caliber teams become third place teams

I was gonna address the part about my supposed jealousy, but if you consider one WS title in the past seventeen years, with the teams we have had, success, then it wouldnt be any use

Were it not for mismanagement, then, given the way they have played, and the way their division rivals have played, this team should be 5 games in front, and pulling away, DESPITE their problems such as the shaky back end of the rotation, Andruw’s ongoing struggles, and the various nagging injuries

By GermanBravesFan

June 20, 2007 1:41 AM | Link to this

Guys… please leave Robert alone! Can you imagine Bobby Cox was not the manager anymore? What would Robert do with his life and his time? Damn… he’d actually need a hobby!

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 1:47 AM | Link to this

Wolfpack Man

That was in 2000 and actually he ended up hitting .232 which makes Bad-druw’s season even that much worse so far…but who could blame Reggie for not being benched when we had backups that year like Trenidad Hubbard, Steve Sisco, and Bobby Bonilla…that HAD to be once of the worst teams I can think of in recent years…I mean we also had B.J. Surhoff, Wally Joyner, and Walt Weiss ALL about 5 years or so too late past their prime, and don’t forget Keith Lockhart and Quilvio Veras AND we had only 2 starters, Maddux and Glavine w/ ERA’s under 4.50 and somehow managed to win the division that year…amazing! The reason I say this is bc as bad as this team has struggled, they probably would’ve kicked that teams butt…

Then again, that team had 3 guys w/ 28+ HR and 100+ RBI in Andruw, Chipper, and Galarraga and Javy who was close w/ 24/89…

Also of note, Andruw hit .303 that year w/ a .366 OBP…one of two years we had Don Baylor as the hitting coach…not sure where he is now, but Andruw could certainly use him

By George "Boston Brave". Spitz

June 20, 2007 1:55 AM | Link to this

The important thing for the Braves is to have Willie Harris and Matt Diaz playing full time. Yesterday against one of the best pitchers in the game, Josh Beckett, Harris went one for three and Diaz drew a walk. That was an on-base percentage of 500. Assuming Andrew Jones make some sort of recovery, it is hard to see him hitting more than 250 while it is difficult to imagine Willie and Matt slumping below 280. Willie is hitting 333 against left-handers and last year Matt was better against righthanders than lefties. Willie has the type of speed required for centerfield and Matt has proven a much better fielder than his reputation from brief appearances at Kansas City. Both have what it takes now to be full time players on a pennant winning National League team.

By GermanBravesFan

June 20, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

Here’s what was on the MLB site:

“Your body is going follow your brain,” Chipper Jones said. “If your brain is thinking left-field seats, that’s where your body is going to go. Until he gets to the point where he gets his brain driving the ball through the center-field wall, he’s going to struggle.”

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 2:03 AM | Link to this

However, I am at heart an optimist of sorts and I love my team. I still think we’re gonna pull the division out. G’night, all.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 2:10 AM | Link to this

“Can you imagine Bobby Cox was not the manager anymore? What would Robert do with his life and his time?”

I’d watch the Braves win WS rings.

By Caleb

June 20, 2007 2:44 AM | Link to this

DOB, not that this really matters, but since I really don’t want to talk about the actual game tonight, you mentioned in your 9:53 post that if the game was called due to rain in the 6th inning, the red sox would win because it was long enough for an official game. But, didn’t MLB change the rule this year that any game that was called because of rain wasn’t official and had to be completed at a later date? I think it’s happened a couple times already this year. I for sure remember a Florida game (don’t recall who they were playing) that was rained out in the 8th inning and postponed to the next day when they completed the 8th and 9th innings. Just curious.

By Caleb

June 20, 2007 2:45 AM | Link to this

DOB, not that this really matters, but since I really don’t want to talk about the actual game tonight, you mentioned in your 9:53 post that if the game was called due to rain in the 6th inning, the red sox would win because it was long enough for an official game. But, didn’t MLB change the rule this year that any game that was called because of rain wasn’t official and had to be completed at a later date? I think it’s happened a couple times already this year. I for sure remember a Florida game (don’t recall who they were playing) that was rained out in the 8th inning and postponed to the next day when they completed the 8th and 9th innings. Just curious.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 2:45 AM | Link to this

Robert, you’re a ppiece of work, you are, you are!

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 2:46 AM | Link to this

fastasballs, I’ve been rather outspoken on the subject and have supported benching Andruw for some time.

Folks will be happy to find out that my intent is to let the subject rest after this one last opine.

I venture to say that the only possible flaw in what you say is that it’s unlikely that Simpson’s assertion that Andruw doesn’t take it home with him is valid … even if Andruw had himself so said.

You’ve made that point … he’s got an elaborate batting cage at home too, has he not? No, he is indeed thinking about it, perhaps too much.

Methinks Andruw doth protest too much … when he says he’s a pull hitter and doing nothing differently yet immediately begins to hit the ball to right and to center. He’s a piece of work but if he says he doesn’t take his problems home, he’s again protesting too much, methinks!

I’m less than confident that he will change … at least not this season … for the problem mostly is, as you’ve pointed out, above the neck … both when he swings at pitches that are so located, and when they’re not.

On the surface, it would appear that the situation has been badly mismanaged by Terry Pendleton … but, that might not be the case. We’re on the outside looking in and not in a position to know how the situation is being addressed but, Terry has announced to the world that he and Andruw are/were not on the same page. To me, that’s mismanagement unless it’s intended as a power play to acheive a management objective.

If it is such a power play, it would appear that our dog wagging tail is winning the power struggle … and if so, is indictative of either Terry’s managerial incompetence or his not having the authority to implement an effective plan of action that would assure the success of the power play … that is, Terry exceeded his authority and Andruw called his Bluff.

Either way, it would appear to be managerial mismanagement unless appearances are deceptive and management’s desired objectives are now being realized … the most desirable of the possibilities.

The most obvious objective, from my limited perspective, is the implied one … to get Andruw and Terry on the same page, working hard to get things turned around. If they are now so doing, we can continue to be disappointed but we should support and applaud the effort. The trouble with that is that we don’t know … and won’t, at least until the situation is closer to resolution or finally resolved … frustrating to say the least.

Even if all is going acording to plan, our manager may soon find himself facing the most difficult of decisions, knowing when to fish or cut bait. While we may not always agree with his decisions but he’s been there and done that, more than most.

Being able to draw on personal experiences for guidance may be a double edged sword, but it sure beats relying on statistics and going by the book … I would like to have his money and love to manage those kids, but only if handling situations such as these could be outsourced!

I still think Andruw should be benched until it gets resolved … one way or ‘tuther! He could then be working on addressing the problem 24-7 instead of worrying about the game.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 3:05 AM | Link to this

Caleb, just my opine but the most logical rule change would be to have just the tie games that were “cancelled” continued rather than being replayed in their entirety.

To so do with the others would have the potential of creating significant scheduling problems; especially with the unbalanced schedule.

Can you imagine going to LA at the end of the season to complete one inning of a 10-0 game where you had the zero?

By Robert

June 20, 2007 3:17 AM | Link to this

Here’s an Andruw quote to chew on

“Everybody struggles. I’m just being pitched good.”

Good hitters respond to “being pitched good” by making adjustments, not by trying to hit balls pitched low and outside further into the left field cheap seats.

Good hitting coaches try to get guys to fall back onto good fundamentals when they are struggling, but they have to be listened to for that to have any effect

Good managers bench players who are hurting their team and doing nothing to rectify the situation.

Bad hitter. Worse manager. And poor Terry Pendleton trying to teach someone who aint listening

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 3:27 AM | Link to this

Grinch, you shouldn’t take this stuff so seriously … it’s unhelthy son … I suggest you take 4 asprin and make sure that those times when you’ve examined the patient, decided he was finished, and then find out you’re wrong … that you file your report to the review board as well.

It won’t change the outcome but it may change your outlook.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 3:28 AM | Link to this

Bob, I agree that mismanagement is the problem here.

Thing is, Terry Pendleton doesnt manage Andruw Jones. Terry Pendleton can attempt to COACH Andruw Jones, as a hitter, but the success of those attempts has a lot to do with the receptiveness to being taught of the pupil. If there is a problem in that regard, and I think it’s fair to say that there is, then it is up to the team’s only MANAGER to MANAGE the situation, in a way that will benefit, first and foremost, the TEAM, hopefully by benefitting the player involved.

That said, what do I want to see Bobby Cox do about Andruw Jones? I’d like to see Bobby Cox get to decide how his pitchers pitch to Braves hitters, every day.

I’d like to see Cox manage every team that plays the Braves, so that we could win games because of his stupidity, as opposed to losing them (for seventeen years) because of his stupidity.

By jed

June 20, 2007 3:28 AM | Link to this

Ptown Brave—If i remember correctly, Reggie Sanders hit like .180 up until August and then he raised his average at the end of the season. That was the single worst season I’ve ever witnessed by a Braves starter. Up there with Dan Kolb. As horrible as Andruw’s been, at least he contributes defensively. But yes, Cox stuck with Reggie all year and it was dreadful. It’s Cox’s weak point no doubt. And it’s happening all over again with Andruw still hitting in the middle of the lineup.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 3:55 AM | Link to this

The Truth is indeed capable of sometimes hurting … lies can’t compete in that regard I didn’t know that Gandalf and Aragorn were prose … indeed, I thought they were amateurs.

By Caleb

June 20, 2007 4:03 AM | Link to this

Bob, I agree, it’s ridiculous. But, can we really expect anything else from selig?

By Berigan

June 20, 2007 4:10 AM | Link to this

A couple of paragraphs from that mlb story on Andruw have me scratching my head…

While Jones’ offseason conditioning program has allowed him to continue proving why he’s earned nine consecutive Gold Glove Awards, the weight loss he experienced hasn’t exactly brought consistency to his game. The .205 batting average he carried into Tuesday night’s game against the Red Sox was the lowest mark among National League regulars.

Seriously, does anyone think he looks thinner, this year, more in shape??? I don’t seem to recall a lot of people saying that…

then there was this…well, not some much a head scratcher, just makes Burrell look so much better than Andruw, and that’s batting .211!!!

Philadelphia’s Pat Burrell had compiled the NL’s second-lowest mark with a .211 batting average. But he, at least, has constructed a .383 on-base percentage, much more impressive than the .303 mark tallied by Jones.

80 point higher OBP??? Amazing! Also, I have seen in the past few weeks, a big hit off of Billy Wagner by Burrell(can you imagine Andruw doing that?) and last night, he got at 2 out hit off of a Cleveland pitcher driving in 2 runs.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 4:16 AM | Link to this

Here’s another beauty from everyone’s favorite manager (spoken,no doubt, while picking his nose and futilely chasing a dangling carrot around the press room)

“Too much Beckett — period,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said

Last time I looked, Beckett only pitched six innings of a nine inning game.

I guess the other three innings didnt matter? Or werent convenient somehow?

And too little Braves execution had nothing to do with it either.

Having a .200 hitter in the middle of the order wouldnt have by chance played into things, would it?

Meanwhile, Tim Hudson said

“”The fifth killed me, giving up those hits to the eighth and ninth hitters,” Hudson said. “You’re supposed to get the pitcher out.”

Yeah, no doubt. Your dipstick manager not pulling you after you failed to get the pitcher out didnt help either. Of course, he handcuffed himself to a certain extent by having used 6 pitchers for no apparent reason in a five run win the night before.

How many times have we heard Cox hee-haw some variation on “one bad pitch” as his explanation for a multi-run rally to beat the Braves?

Compare that to how many times all it has taken to shut down the Braves is one GOOD pitch in a clutch situation

The man is beloved by his players, who would, it is said, run thru a wall for him (but heaven forbid if they do so with sunglasses on their ballcaps). He is beloved by the majority of the team’s fans. He is lauded by many who work inside the game of big league baseball (which makes perfect sense, when you consider that majority of people who work in pro baseball work for teams other than the Braves)

But Bobby Cox has no clue what is wrong, or how to fix it. He doesnt even have a clue that anything IS wrong.

This is like watching a guy raise into a pair of aces with two-seven offsuit, and then folding aces against two-seven offsuit.

While playing with YOUR money.

And the majority of Braves fans would be clamoring over themselves to stake him for the next tournament.

By Bill

June 20, 2007 4:16 AM | Link to this

I’m just lost for words on this team. How many games out would they be if the Mets had played .500 in last 2wks? This team is only 1 1/2 games out but lets get real. The team needs wholesale changes. There’s no pitchers to be found. Dontrelle Willis is having some kind of forearm problems. We don’t need Buerle. I have said this before and right now he is the Braves best player. Trade Renteria while his value is high and Hudson too. Don’t think Hudson will ever be any good. He is better suited for American League. AJ is a lost cause and won’t get much better. He needs a change of scenery but it’s not going to happen this year.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 5:45 AM | Link to this

Robert, I sure that you saw my post regarding your manager definition criteria … and that was more sincere contained fewer layers than I’m prone to pen, especially not at 3:00AM Central when I’m headed to the Hot Tub and bed.

Appropriately or no, I consider the coaches to be managers or extensions of the manager … with well defined responsibilities and span of authority, but managers all the same.

You and I differ definitionally and that makes it difficult if not impossible to reasonably discuss or resolve anything until there is basic agreement with regard to definitional criteria … we’re both well aware of that being the situation.

Were we to totally agree in principle, it’s highly unlikely that we would recognize or admit to that being the case, so long as we are in significant definitional disagreement.

I’m not sure that there’s much to be gained from our discussions under these conditions, especially since you appear to have already reached your conclusions and your main focus seems to on proving your point rather than exploring possibilities in the search for the truth.

I’m not suggesting that to be the case but rather that is the appearance being given. In so doing, I sincerely feel that you are doing yourself a disservice.

While my current skills are in disarray and but a tiny fraction of what they were, I think my faculties are still sufficiently in tact so as to allow me to continue to positively contribute to the Blog’s discussions … though others might disagree.

It matters not one iota to me what you think of Bobby Cox … my thoughts on entitlements and responsibility driven privileges are well documented in the Blog archives but within those constraints, I believe that you are entitled to your opinions and I sincerely accept the premise that you have reached your conclusions based on what you consider to be solid evidence, logical if not concrete … and with regard to many of your conclusions, I’m sure I would logically concur.

No, I don’t give one iota about that … but I do care about you and the fact that you are doing yourself and your fellow bloggers a grave disservice.

A man I consider to be the smartest man I’ve ever known though he was well past his prime when we first met … called me into his office on more than one occasion, mad as Hell this Prussian scholar was …and always had the same message … “McBrayer, have your genius and you’re my smartest and best student … but, by damn you’re also the dumbest! Your classmates are smart too or they wouldn’t be here. They respect your brains and want to be your friends. Son, your greatest asset is your Brain … my only assets of lasting value are my friends … now get the Hell out of my office!”

I never really understood what he meant but since he was the smartest man I knew and he said I was smart, it sounded good to me and now I pass it along to you to consider and see if it makes any sense to you.

After thinking about it for 50 years, I think it has something to do with gaining respect by respecting … and Mama told me she agreed with him too, I think probably more about being the dumbest than anything else, but she also thought making friends was a pretty good idea. It’s a good thing too, ‘cause she had more than anyone else.

I’m not sure what this has to do with managing or definitional criteria but then the onion has many layers.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 6:06 AM | Link to this

Shaun, hitting the ball hard and swinging hard aren’t directly related … and Ted and Joe told me that those who wanted to be on ESPN swung hard and tried to hit home runs because they knew all the fly ball outs would be edited out and nobody would remember them.

Those that wanted to play good baseball had a different focus but they hit the ball hard. Babe Ruth said that he would have been a better player had his focus not been on home runs but that folks expected it … and he got paid for doing what they expected, at least according to Sam Byrd.

By Gil in Mechanicsville

June 20, 2007 6:35 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist Yes, we of another generation try as we might to impart wisdom to youth often fail at that endeavor for they are not yet ready to admit they could possible be wrong.

To become a wise sage one must often fail himself to have a proper appreciation of reality.

Baseball and golf are both games in which failure is much more the norm than success. Yet many who have not learned this simple fact cry out when perfection is not obtained.

I learned the hard way that you cannot beat people up and have them say I love you. Young Robert has exhibited at times real intelligence when it comes to facts yet he has managed to alienate nearly everyone with his constant derision of anyone who dares to question his self perceived genius.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Jonathan Swift, “It is useless to attempt to reason a man out of what he was never reasoned into.”

Often times people become so emotionally involved with an idea they refuse to compromise for fear someone might feel they are weak. A true genius can recognize when to go with the mood of the room so as to be a subtle force for change.

I too learned the hard way that it was impossible to build a coalition after you have called everyone else an idiot. You can incite the masses with rhetoric to do just about anything but it takes real finesse to keep them focused on the task at hand.

By Ron Roberts

June 20, 2007 6:44 AM | Link to this

Robert, for the love of God, do you ever consider that the team that won last night was a pretty darn good team, dude? Beckett pitched one bad game all season, and it wasn’t last night. The three relievers they rolled out after him all have ERA’s under 3.00; in fact, two of ‘em have ERA’s under 2.00!! We were held to five freaking hits all night… so the manager’s to blame for this loss? C’mon…

Give the Red Sox a little credit instead of being so myopic about your fascination with Bobby Cox’s employment status.

I just wish Bobby would apologize for running over your blowup doll, or whatever it is he did to make you the fanatical whack-job you paint yourself to be in the eyes of so many of us here.

What really sucks is, when you try to just discuss baseball or the Braves without infusing one of your lame, tired anti-Cox jabs, you actually make a little sense. Hell, I don’t often agree with Bobby Cox’s decisions, but I sure don’t go on some prolonged tirade about wishing he were terminated. For one, the guy (despite what you might think) knows more about major league baseball than you and/or I will ever come to know, and for another, he brings results.

You are the one person on the planet who continues this derision of Cox. The one. You think it’s a conspiracy that all the media outlets that cover MLB heap praise upon Bobby Cox, that a strong majority of MLB players polled chose Cox as the one manager they’d prefer to play for above all others, and that every baseball executive in the game would love to have him in their dugout?

I don’t think that’s coincidence. I do, however, think your incessant, non-stop fanatical nature about Bobby is a sign of some sort of psychological disorder. Seriously, dude, I hope the AJC webstaff would cooperate with authorities if Cox or his loved ones felt a little uncomfortable with your fascination and wanted the cops to find out where you are in order to keep tabs on you.

It’s baseball; and here you are, displaying an eerie psychosis that would give any of us the creeps were we the target of your barbs for so damned long.

Please, for the love of God… curtail it, man. You remind me of the guy on the TV commercials whose friends notice he’s talking out of his @$$. I can’t imagine you hang with a circle of friends who know sports who’d sit there and nod their heads in agreement every time you made some of the statements about Bobby Cox that you’ve made here.

By Soul Man

June 20, 2007 6:58 AM | Link to this

Robert, I’m no doctor but reading your posts makes me think you have a classic case of what the late, great Lewis Grizzard called cranial rectitis, meaning your have your head up your butt. To other, less moronic members of our humble abode, top o’ the morning. Andruw’s at .202? .202?! I admit I don’t have 10% of the baseball knowledge Bobby Cox has in his pinky finger but the status quo can’t continue, can it? I mean we HAVE to do something more than drop him in the order. What is he, 0 for 8 since this most recent move to the six hole? And I’ve slowly begun to come to this conclusion: We won’t be the dominant team every fan wants us to be - and is used to us being - anytime in the near future and I’m talking past farther than just this season. The lack of payroll dollars and trading off young talent (which is OK since making trades is half the reason you stockpile young talent) has caught up with us. Hudson still has been a good - and, at times, great - pitcher this year. But what he’s done at times of late is what you’d expect from a third starter or a good fourth man, not from your two spot. Still, though, I think the Braves win the division and get past the first round of the playoffs. No reason to jump off the wagon, right? We’re only 1 1/2 games back after an abysmal first half of June and you know Druw, Frenchy and BMac will get hot. Right? Please!

By tech fan in sc

June 20, 2007 7:12 AM | Link to this

shaun,

Atlanta is not a huge city??????????? There are over 5 million people in the metro area. That is the ninth largest in the U.S. Look it up at wikipedia

By Ron

June 20, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

would you ppl pls stop the Griffey Jr. ranting? we don’t need another aging, injury prone player that will probably only play 2/3 (or less) of a season. we’ve got enough of those! who do you think we are, the yankees? besides, he’s expensive and i’m sure we can find a suitable replacement in the minors somewhere. we’re hurting for PITCHING. starting pitching, at that. i think chuck is serviceable at this point, but davies is just not consistent enough. use andruw’s salary (don’t resign) and get a proven pitcher and maybe another good relief pitcher in the offseason. i’m not talking zambrano or anything, but a quality no. 2 or 3 guy that at least gives a chance past the first inning! as for andruw, how much longer before he finally breaks out? 3/4 into the season? move him into 7 or 8 spot. heck, the PITCHERS are having better at bats than he is! and frenchy, STOP SWINGING AT EVERY FIRST PITCH!!! Arrrgggghhhhh.

i’m not ready to give up on the season, as i still think the braves have a pretty good shot. we just have to play smarter. we have to start winning some series again. i don’t care about a 10 game winning streak, but series are key! how much longer do you guys think the METS will continue to play like this? not much longer, my guess.

good luck, braves. we are rooting for you, but please start winning (consistently) again.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 8:01 AM | Link to this

While I slept a few things happened that I wish to address. First(and second)the Braves lost and AJ went hitless. The former is unfortunate; the latter is almost inevitable. Next, the LADY made some nice comments and asked some questions. I flew mostly Helicopters and Forward Aircontroller Aircraft; yes, in ‘Nam. Thanks for sharing the picture with us. Gosh, I wish I could do that. Lastly, the Grinch, through his excellent rendition of Have Gun Will Travel reminded me that that was the name of the TV show, not Paladin. But, if an old man’s reminices only contain one error, it’s worth a parade.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this

Gil, I just returned from the Hot Tub and was headed to bed … but I’m glad now that I took the time to take a peek.

The oft quoted Swift quote contains more wisdom than all my posts combined … except those containing the quotes of others. Wisdom is timeless as evidenced by moving from before Aesop through Plato, Cato and so many others including the Bard’s being true to himself and warning against being too miuch like everybody else, to to Swift and Twain … to Will Rogers, Aunt Bea and Bobby Cox. It hasn’t changed since that first bite of the forbidden fruit. Progress be hanged, it’s all propaganda … what progress? Truth is, we haven’t had any … wisdom wise!

And yet, people are so intent on telling and showing folks how smart they are … that hasn’t changed much either! It’s best to let folks find it out for themselves … they aren’t going to believe you anyway, not if they’re smart.

I only hope Robert reads it and accepts it in the spirit in which it was given.

The story is true … and I think the message it too. Methinks, if I can drift back into the persona, that be would be wise to embrace the idea that folks who are trying to do their best are deserving of our respect, regardless of whether they meet our expections … or share our views; including Bobby Cox.

I’ll close with this aside, the only people that I ever call idiots are those I consider to be highly intelligent … and only then if we’re close friends! The one inexplicable exception is that I’m continually so referring to myself.

Pardon any errors … it’s early for you but late for me … my days and nights are almost as confused as I.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

tech fan in sc your post makes me feel old … when I was growing up in Atlanta, the city was only 39 square miles in area … and when my son was born, the sign outside Piedmont Hospital was just crossing the 1,000,000 mark … makes him feel old too!

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 8:28 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist: Do you do laps in the hot tub? Just a twisted thought from a twisted mind. BTW, with all of you who carry your profession in your moniker, I can’t wait for __, Hairdresser to show up.

By ChampDawg

June 20, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

I’ll admit I’m a pessimist most of the time…… but, most Braves fans have good reasons to be…….. at most 2 good pitchers, Andruw barely keeping his head above 200, Chipper and Smoltz and McCann are warriors but battling injuries. Luckily, the Mets have been struggling too or we would be 10 games out by now.

By Tomahawkin' Again

June 20, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

After reading KJ’s comments in DOB’s story this morning regarding the amount of Red Sox fans @ the Ted, as a life-long Braves fan I have one thing to say: Shut up already about the Red Sox fans! If maybe you got more than 5 hits and didn’t have your #5 hitter currently batting at .202, maybe a few more of the locals would take you seriously. Look, I’m like everyone else longing for the glory days of the early-mid 90’s when we Braves fans took over stadiums such as Riverfront & the Astrodome to name a few. Those days are gone now. My God, if the players can stop being worried about the ratio of fans rooting for the Braves vs. rooting for the visitors and attempt to put together maybe a 3 game winning streak here, you know what, the fans will come!

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

Grinch, Apologies mom ami! I just realized that with so many new folks now participating, some might not know our relationship and misunderstand my post to you and think that I was being condesending, critical or both … I just want to make it perfectly clear that being your parole officer does not keep me from having a sense of humor and being your friend!

By Laurance Maney

June 20, 2007 8:39 AM | Link to this

The Andruw problem will never be solved in Atlanta. Where did Francona put Drew to get him going? 6th? 7th? No, at leadoff. What’s the point of moving AJ to 6th with the wild swinging Francouer behind him? Forget the 51 and 41 HR years. Andruw had one good year. 2000 hitting ahead of Chipper. A this point, however, he and his batting coaches have changed his plate approach so often he has no idea what to do.

By Gene Garbage

June 20, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

DOB- be glad you did not go to Wilco. pouring down rain, tweedy is still a prick, etc… i really like the stuff from the new album, just can’t seem to get past tweedy’s tude. the guy is a dick. however, the rest of the band is great. did i mention it was raining? would have been great if it was say, 70 degrees w/ a slight breeze. 6.00 Bud tallboys. Good venue for them. Nels cline is an animal. Is this making any sense. I dig the tune walken from sky blue sky. that is all

By serbok

June 20, 2007 8:43 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist Gil in Mechanicsville Ron Roberts

WOW guys, my little tongue in cheek to hopefully get Robert to see ways differently, as far as getting his thoughts and feelings out on the blog in a more appropriate way?, early Monday morning, Really looks very much B9!! LOL

“Power to the People!

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Now, Bob, I signed off last night with an optimistic post. Your bringing up Swift and dating yourself reminds me that DOB mentioned dating himself with “Gulliver’s Travels” in this blog. Dave, I had no idea you were born in the 18th century. You must have quite a health regimen!

Paladin, may I be so bold as to ask what sort of helicopters you flew just out of pure curiosity? I have no flight experience (other than needing four martinis and a xanax to get me through a Delta takeoff), but I’m quite into military history and I understand helicopters to be a rather integral part of that particular conflict. How’s that for an understatement? :-)

By Bob

June 20, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Did you ever notice how Mets Drool and No Chop never show up when the Mets lose? They show up when the Braves lose and their beloved Metropolitans win. They love to gloat when they tell us how bad the Braves are and how much better their players are.

Did you notice the similarity when one of our so called “Braves Fans” logs in? When the Braves lose, which has been all too often lately, he chimes in with all the expertise of John McGraw or Conny Mack. Nobody is more adept at skewering a strategy and his Monday morning quarterbacking is unsurpassed on this blog. He was particularly enlightening last night and again early this morning.

Did anyone notice the blog on Monday night and early Tuesday morning? This most famous of bloggers was strangely absent after the Braves game began. I wonder why that was. Could it be that the Braves were winning? Surely not.

Our New York friends only appear when the Mets win and the local boys fail. Our blogging friend appears when he wins, which happens to be when the Braves lose. The Braves lose and he has plenty to disect and wisdom to pass on to us. The Braves win and he believes that Silence is Golden.

By The Murf

June 20, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

Amazing. Huge newspaper in huge city and we have one good sports writer. Keep up the good work DOB. Now vote some Bravos in the All Star Game

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this

Grinch I flew Huies and some other POSes that you probably never heard of.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

Paladin, Gun Fighter,

The “Journalist” only means that I keep a Journal … it’s old, I have copies of the Atlanta Constitution too, but Bob, owner of the Atlanta Journal and the Atlanta Constition might give folks the wrong idea and cause problems with Medicaid and the IRS.

I can understand the twisted mind part but I wouldn’t worry too much about it … people say the same thing about me, at least I think that’s what they’re saying … and I figure it’s some sort of compliment, saying I’m different from most folks.

Actually, Hairdresser might not be too bad … sounds better than Bob, owner of the Atlanta Journal and the Atlanta Constition, don’t you think?!

I was some sort of actuarial scientist but since that’s more art than science I never could figure out what to call myself … and Bob, idiot; while pleasing to the ear and conveying the truth is politically incorrect, according to AJC blogging guidelines.

I’m open to suggestions …

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 9:07 AM | Link to this

Robert,

What about Andruw’s K per plate appearances. Because I know Andruw’s drawn more walks this year and walks don’t count as AB’s.

I’m sure he’s struck out more often this season and luck is not the entire reason for his struggles but I’m pretty sure luck plays a pretty significant role.

tech fan in sc,

If you read some other stuff on Wikipedia, it talks about how metro areas are hard to define because there are really no strict borders.

Also, Atlanta ranks 35th-39th, according to the data I can find in population within the city. Obviously it’s going to be easier to go to a game, the closer you live to the park. Atlanta is not all that big when we are looking at people who actually live in the city. You wouldn’t expect Atlantans to go to as many games as people in Boston, Chicago, San Francisco or of course New York because many people in those cities can easily be home in a few minutes while many Atlanta fans may make it home an hour or two after the game.

Bob, Journalist,

Maybe Babe Ruth did say that but I don’t think he would have been the most valuable player in baseball history had he worried more about not striking out instead of going for homeruns.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

Bob, whatever But, you do have a sense of humor and I admire that. Best regards, Paladin

By jch

June 20, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

Any thoughts on platooning ‘druw with Harris? It’s half-way through the season and he’s sliding towards Mendoza - showing no signs of improvement.

I hate to see Harris sitting on the bench with a .380 or so average while ‘druw strikes out repeatedly.

Who knows, maybe a couple weeks in a platoon is exactly the wake-up he needs to get him going. Nothing like some pine splinters to re-focus your efforts.

It’s hard to believe he can be this bad for this long but… it is what it is and you gotta deal with it.

By Batter Up!

June 20, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

Can we pleeeeeeeeeeease get Jeff F to stop swinging at everything that’s pitched to him, which by the way he misses all the time or flys out! He is so impatient, when he bats I have to step away from the tube because he erks me to no end!

We needs more of Brian, Edgar, and Escobar up at bat. Andrew gets worse on every game, maybe he’s hanging out w/ Jeff to much. Time to get new friends Andrew.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

Paladin,

Thanks guy and a special thanks for your service. Did you get out or retire from the Army? I got “thrown out” in 2004 after 30 years. Rode in many a UH-1 and OH-58 in my formative years. I miss that distinctive Huey “wap wap wap” since all of our active duty models have been turned in since the late 90s. The Blackhawk is great, but it has a totally different sound.

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist, you are indeed a brave man asking for suggestions on what to call yourself on this blog.

Paladin, they must not have been too bad since we’re communicating via computer and not a Ouija board.

Shaun, I split my home time between Vinings and Palmetto. The first is a 10 minute drive from the stadium, the second about 20-25 despite being three “cities” south of the airport. I think it’s safe to include the suburbs when counting the Atlanta population that ought to be able to get to a game, which amounts to around 5 million. I doubt most people that evaluate the size of Atlanta think everyone lives at Five Points.

By jch

June 20, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

Shaun

‘druw’s K average is .278 - 73K’s in 263 at bats.

He has 34 BB’s through 71 games vs. 82 in 156 last year - at this rate, he’ll end up with fewer walks this year than last.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

Paladin,

Sorry about that last post. Duh. I realize now you were responding the smart Bob…the journalist and not my ramblings. I am a relative newcomer here who probably needs to get a different moniker.

By Joel

June 20, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this

Having watched Andruw since he was a 17 year old kid playing in Macon, he will work out of his horrendous slump. In the meantime, could someone get him a copy of Ted Williams’ book “The Art of Hitting”, and perhaps a good sports psychologist wouldn’t hurt. Of course, there is the evil part of me that hopes he does have a terrible season, then we’ll be better able to lock him into a long term contract again. Okay, so I’ll go to confession for that one.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

And a big thanks to you, as well, Bob! I retired from the Marines and since then I will not even become a bell-ringer for the Salvation Army for fear they will activate us.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

Paladin,

I know what you mean. Semper Fi.

By Gene Allen

June 20, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Sometimes I’m irked the Braves never seem to play with passion, but then I remember it’s 162 games, so an even strain has got to be best, until the post-season when a little excitement can take a team to a higher level albeit briefly. Not giving up on the Braves yet, and glad our Eastern Division hasn’t proved to be quite so tough.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

Is this team capable of ripping off 10 of 12???

I’ll give them a pass on te next four games. That is some stiff competition. After that, we better beat up the Nats, Marlins, Dodgers and Padres. Need those 13 games. 9-4 would be really nice.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Bob Please, no apologies are necessary; I, too, am a comparative newcomer who should probably be “seen” but not “heard”, but I am too bold/dumb to observe it. BTW, I was thinking about changing my moniker to Paladin, Black Book, but everyone in there is too old, dead, or in the home. Oh well!

By jch

June 20, 2007 9:48 AM | Link to this

Crunching some more numbers further to my earlier post re: ‘druw’s K avg.

Here’s the rest of the team

K. Johnson - .203 W. Harris - .162 E. Renteria - .157 C. Jones - .166 B. McCann - .138 J. Francoeur - .201 S. Thorman - .189

Andruw - .278

When the rest of the team’s K avg is .170 or so and your’s is a full 100 points above - something’s wrong.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

serbok, I figure that Robert has most likely been keenly aware of my thinking for some time and knows three things (1) I’m sincere, (2) I don’t waste my time on hopeless causes or on folks unworthy of it, (3) I’m sincere, (4) I repeat myself, giving us something in common, and (4) I can’t can’t remember or keep count of anything, including his faults.

From my perspective, since many of us believe that it would be in Andruw’s best interest for Bobby Cox to sit him down, preferably at the end of the bench … and explain things to him, including Robert, … I just think that we should extend the same courtesy to one of our own in the hope that he will listen … same as we all hope for Andruw.

I realize that Bobby might be the logical choice for the task, but he is currently busy with Andruw and interferring with that important task might cost us the the championship … so, the responsibility falls to us.

By 22oz

June 20, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

I think Francoeur’s regression into his old ways is partly a result of being tired. He looks exhausted every time you see him. The Varitek double last night was a result of this as well. you could only see his legs in the shot, but Varitek turned it on once he looked out at Frenchy and saw him dogging it to the ball. I’ve been saying it for the past few weeks, why is he (and Andruw) exempt from the day off that Bobby seems to be so concerned with giving all his other players? Because he wants to play every day? Does that mean Kelly, Thorman, Diaz, Willie, or even Orr for that matter don’t want to play every day?

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

I like someone explain to me how “Bob Journalist”keep bloging all night long….It this guy work for living…Or DOB have this guy in the payroll to cover for him over night…and he still bloging at 9:02am this morning wow….how you do that Bob? Ok go back to the Andruw saga…Did anyone remember Rick Ankiel…he has a sindrum that he can’t pitch…he was so wild that doctor recomend him to retire or change position…I think Andruw soffer the same sindrum…Last night i saw him not smiling anymore, so this is affect him mentally.

By Will

June 20, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

Just read this blog, and all i know is the reason for some of this pessimism among fans is that the Braves are not a very good baseball team. Anybody who truly knows baseball is aware of this. The only reason the Braves are even in it is cause they Mets have been beyond awful. Still diehard rooting for the Braves every night, but there is no reason to not be realistic.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Bob, you’re the smart one, nicht ich and your moniker is fine … it’s easy to remember and if you’re bad with spelling … you can screw up and spell it backwards, nobody’s going to be the wiser!

However, refer to me as “bob” and that may prove confusing to you. Not many people post to me cause of “guilt by association” and I can generally tell when they’re spelling my name instead of yours.

If you do change, just don’t use “bob, plain and simple” ‘cause it will confuse folks, especially me.

By Will

June 20, 2007 10:09 AM | Link to this

What is even a little more scary with Andruw is this slump has been going on since last August. We are coming up on nearly a full seasons worth of games where he is barely hitting .200!!

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this

Jersey Gil You wrote: Last night i saw him not smiling anymore, so this is affect him mentally.

He got a splinter in his butt—he should get more.

By Steve from OH

June 20, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

DOB, what do you think the odds are of JS making a move for a starter at the deadline? I’d rather see it sooner than later, of course, but I can’t see us getting anybody great without giving up Salty…sigh…

By JasonInMaine

June 20, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Hudson <> Ace

By JasonInMaine

June 20, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

Hudson on his struggles against the Sox:

“But check their record — they’re not too bad. Pretty good team.”

Yeah, and you are our supposed ace! How did Smoltzie do when he faced them at Fenway? He needs to have the mentality that he could shut down the ‘27 Yanks. I don’t care how good the opposing team is…we need Huddy to be the Huddy of old!

Regards,

Jason

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

In My opinion…i don’t think JS going to have a big blockbuster deal…Everyone need pitching and there not to much available to trade a good young player(Salty,escobar)…It anyone look at the huge name in the disabled list lately…Huge name(Randy Johnson,Myers,Pedro,Pavano,and now posible Curt Schilling)all allstars..not including the Braves (Hampton). It we going to fix this team there going to come from the minor league not via trade.

By Baseball grit

June 20, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

Poor ‘ol Andruw. Bless his heart, he’s doing the best he can.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

The Grinch,

But what about other cities? The Red Sox draw fans from, what, about 2/3 of New England if not more?

Also, the point about a lot of Braves fans living outside the city is that it’s not as easy for Braves fans to get to and from the park as it is in other cities where fans actually live within walking distance from the park or within a short train or subway ride.

Shouldn’t all this be taken into account when evaluating whether Braves fans are bad fans?

I just don’t think Braves fans are any less passionate than most fans out there.

You have to remember Boston and Chicago Cubs fans are extreme exceptions to any kind of conclusions we may draw about attendance.

By 21 grams

June 20, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

22 oz good question on why Frenchy isn’t rested more.I think there’s a myth that kids his age don’t get tired.They need time to recuperate like vets,just a shorter amount.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

This thought is going to get me shot.

How about moving Druw up to the #2 hole which is where he batted the only year he batted .300?

Torre has moved AROD to the fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and yes, even the #2 hole.

Maybe putting Druw up there in the #2 hole in front of Chipper would force Druw to get better pitches or something or give him a different mindset in thinking that he needs to get on in front of Chipper instead of feeling like he needs to hit a 5 run homer to knock Chipper in all the time?

Then again, #1, #2, #3, #4 in this lineup ain’t broke, so why F around with what is working especially since there is no guarantee that Druw won’t continue to be a black hole in the #2 hole which could kill the lineup even worse than he is already hurting the lineup. Maybe when Willie cools off it would make sense.

I don’t really understand why Cox never tries McCann in the #2 hole. He is scuffling alot over the past six weeks or so. Maybe hitting McCann there could get McCann going.

I’m not saying that I would leave McCann or Druw in the 2 hole for the entire season. Just keep them there long enough to figure things out a bit. But if they get going good, then maybe you just leave them there.

My biggest fear would be that Druw would truly make it a #2 hole.

I would like to see the following lineups: 1. KJ, 2. McCann; 3. Edgar; 4. Chipper; 5. Frenchy; 6. Druw; 7. Salty; 8. Willie C. Diaz

OR 1. KJ; 2. Druw; 3. Edgar; 4. Chipper; 5. McCann; 6. Frenchy; 7. Salty; 8. Willie C. Diaz

But I only want to see that lineup when (1) Salty learns to play first better; and (2) when Willie Harris cools off. don’t think Diaz is ever going to cool off and I would like to see Diaz hit higher than eighth but he is never going to drive in the same amount of runs as Druw or Frenchy because he does not have their power.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

I like that quote from Chipper about seeing the ball go through the center field wall in your mind. Visualization. An excellent concept. Who says Hoss is less than brilliant. More players should follow that approach. I bet it would work well for many of them. Obviously, it works for Chipper.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

Will,

Surely you have to believe the Braves are good enough to at least contend for the Wild Card.

Even with their injury troubles to key players and slumps, they are still hanging in there. Plenty of reason to not be pessimistic, if not somewhat optimistic.

By Dark Helmet

June 20, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this

is it just me, or was that strike 3 to Andruw before the rain delay a foot outside?

By Robert

June 20, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Reason for Optimism?????

NONE!!!

Braves have one quality SP in John Smoltz. Hudson has reverted back to the Hudson we have known as an Atlanta Brave. Chuck James IS NOT a number 3 starter. Davies is more bad than good, Carlyle shows promise, but it is too early to tell on him.

Andruw Jones is absolutely terrible this season. He has always been frustrating to watch, but this year tops any frustrations we have felt in the past. Our offense in general is way too inconsistent. I will say this, I remember a game in Boston when Andruw sat, and we scored 14 runs, the most by far this season. The whole lineup appeared more relaxed without AJ in there. With him in there, and slumping as he is, the whole lineup looks to be trying to overcompensate to make things happen.

By Lee

June 20, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

While driving in my car listening to the game last night Pete and Skip sounded as if this Andruw situation had them a little mystified also. Pete stated at this point in each of A.J.’s career years with the Braves the lowest average he had in the past, with this many games into the season, was a 248 batting average. I don’t remember all of the averages exactly except the majority of them were in the 260 to 268 range. During that one great home run season he had, his average was a little over 300 at this point of the season. You would like to think he may break out of it, but with each game that passes, it certainly raises the question - What if he does not!!!!!

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Yeah, I’ve actually thought about that a couple of weeks ago. At the very least maybe it would get Andruw in that “second-leadoff” state of mind so that he’s getting on base.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

I’ve been ragging Macdowell because of poor mechanics by some pitchers.This probably isn’t completely fair anymore than blaming TP for Andruw’s hard headedness would be.I guess it’s still true that you can lead a Brave to water but if you drown him you could be arrested….or words to that effect.

By iwalterp

June 20, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

I have a theory that managers that were at best bench players when they played ball become what is called a “players manager”. they are awed by the superstar and defer to him in making a decision whether to sit them down or get them off the mound. Managers that were everyday players like Torre and Derossa are not awed by the superstar player and make the call that needs to be made whether it hurts the players ego or not. The manager that was a minor league vet or bench player also developes an affinity with players on his team who best identifies with his career. This is why I think B.Cox keeps guys like Orr and Woodward and yo yo’s guys like Giles,Pena and Escobar back and forth to minors until they have no minor league options left. This crap about sending a player back to get his everyday playing time to develope is rediculus. Does anyone believe 24 yr old Escobar really needs any more developing? What is going to hurt his psyche more; to stay with club that you know you have earned the right to be with and be a major league sub, or go back to minors and play everyday with guys you know you are better than, with all the bus rides and cheap hotels? If he is being offered for trade then what is better for GM to see than that he can hit major league pitching right now.

By Daxxed

June 20, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this

Well Andrew will be following the footsteps of 2 other big stars that left the Braves after Free Agencies and ended up out of the game a few years later. Except both these players had stellar years for there final one in Atlanta. Especially one that can not be coached. Does anyone remember Jeff Blauser or Javy Lopez. And how fast they exited the game after leaving Atlanta. Watch AJ leave then get traded a couple of times and then be gone. His lack of coachability is his demize. I’ve enjoyed his defense as everyone else but if his avg goes below the Medoza line his free agency worth will be the joke of free agency.

By geauxbraves2000

June 20, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Sorry if this has already been posted, don’t know why the denzien of the day link is not on the front page, but here it is (if I can do it right):

denzien of the day

Geaux Braves!!

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Shaun,

Jersey Gil has a point … A few days back, I posted as Robert, on of which I am, and explained that I was 5 different people … but nobody believed me … In truth I’m only one and do need some sleep. My wife thinks so too … that I should get some sleep.

I’ll make this short Maybe Babe Ruth did say that but I don’t think he would have been the most valuable player in baseball history had he worried more about not striking out instead of going for homeruns

Do you think it was the home runs that made him most valuable … he said he could certainly have hit .400+, more than once, had he reduced his trying for home runs just a bit, not that he would materially reduce his power production.

Maybe it was his home runs that got him the votes as the all time MVP rather than what made him the most valuable player of all time.

Maybe you’ve got his strikeout focus confused with when he was pitching … Babe did strike out but not too much, indeed he hated to so do. Changing his focus might have reduced the “Ks” but there’s more to baseball than home runs and strikeouts and Babe knew that better than most.

I’m leaving the building!

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

All

I wish Francouer would progress a little quicker. I understand he is only 23, but I was hoping for an OPS of 830 this year(330 OBP, 500 SLUG). But that isn’t going to happen. I think he is capable of reaching a 330 OBP, but the kid just can’t slug 500 right now. 450 is the bext we could hope for.

By Lee

June 20, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Not saying all of Red Sox fans do this, but I actually do believe some of their fans would spend and just about do spend their complete yearly (recreational - fun type) salary just to see the Red Sox play in that ballpark all year. Local people in Atlanta will not do that. Too much other things like concerts, going to beaches Florida, six flags, Lake Lanier etc…………………… Just saying the fans in Atlanta may not be quite as passionate as Red Sox fans and a few other clubs like Cubs, Yankees and their fans.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Robert,

Hudson is probably not as good as he was his first few starts but he’s probably not as bad as he has been his last few, either.

And Chuck James is actually pretty well below the NL average in ERA, which is just fine for a third starter.

You’d like to see more from the back end but the top three are fine.

I have no idea if Andruw will get much better but I think there’s little reason to assume he’ll be this bad all season.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Robert-I don’t know that I’d go as far as saying there’s no reason for optimism. There are holes needing to be filled, but NO optimism? I have no idea what’s wrong with Andruw. Every day I expect him to break out of this extended funk. As you say, he’s frustrating at the best of times, but this has approached insane levels. Do you really think it will continue season long? Something has got to break through that impenetrable wall sooner or later (at least I fervently hope so). I think another pitcher (whether through trade, Scheurholz steal or from the minors) and some RH power from the bench, preferably someone who can play first and outfield, and we’ll be good to go. Look how pitiful ALL the pitching is in our division. There is no one out there really, for any team to pick up on, regardless the money they have to spend. As long as the Braves can hang close, like we are now, then anything is possible, hence some optimism. Keep in mind the Mets do have Jorge Sosa and the Phillies only have 40 something Jamie Moyer. Wow. I’m awed.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Bob,Journalist,

Thanks. I was contemplating spelling it backwards, maybe like boB. Then I thought about using my official name, but as we ALL know, that is already taken. Maybe BavarianBob or BierBob but I guess I will just leave bad enough alone.

Shaun,

I live way out in Gwinnett but really have no problem getting to the Ted. I agree that it is probably easier to get to games in the larger Northeastern cities on weekdays than it is here in the Atlanta area. Hence we normally have much larger weekend crowds than weekday ones. I would not agree we are as passionate as other fans, even excluding the Sox and Cubs. Seems to me we are more like Dodger fans…late arriving and early leaving.

Face it, we are an area of the country that likes baseball a lot. But we are also an area of the country that is absolutely passionate about college football. In New England, no one except alumni cares about B.C. I think the Braves do ok on attendance overall, less playoff games.

Braveheart,

I am all for shuffling the lineup, but not sure I am ready for McCann in the two spot. He hasn’t exactly had a banner year either and he has to be the slowest guy since Sid Bream. I love the kid and think he might be getting back on track, but I am not in favor of him batting 2d.

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Robert A lot of people will agree with most of your 10:36, certainly including me, but there are non-confrontational ways to say it, and I’ll bet dollars to KKs that you could find some reasons for being optimistic; if you so wanted.

I’m gone with the wind!

By Kaye

June 20, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Why wont they send Andruw down to get his swing going. I have never seen anyone have such a bad season as Andruw. Seems like hes doing nothing or the hitting coach is not that good.

By Wilco Fan

June 20, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

The Wilco show last night was fanominal despite the rain. It poured pretty much the entire show but nobody seemed to care. In fact, I think it made the band play better because they felt like the fans were toughing it out. Half the show was stuff from there new album (which is great) and the other half was old favorites (Jesus, etc., Hell is Chrome, The Late Greats). All in all, it was amazing. Unforunately, I had to come to work this morning and I am hung over as hell.

Regarding the Braves, I know I am not the first person to say this, but Andruw was be the most stuburn idiot hitter I have ever seen. The worst part is that I think it is rubbing off on Frenchy. He was doing so well with his new approach and then he gets away from it. How Andruw can be anywhere but the 8 spot I don’t know. I would also like to address the BoSox fan issue. Of course there are going to be a ton of their fans at the games. They only play here three times and they are a very popular team. Besides, true Braves fans (such as myself, I’ve been to 10 games already this season and I’m going twice in the next week) would rather go see teams like the Mets because the games are more important.

By 1957 Braves Fan

June 20, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

If the Braves get runners in scoring position with no outs bet your house and all your money they will not score.

By Lee

June 20, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

iwalterp

Got to admit that I have thought about serveral of the things you mentioned in that post before also.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this

Bob, Journalist,

Babe struck out a lot for his day.

But I do think his homeruns are a huge reason why he was the most valuable player in history. Homers are the most valuable offensive weapon in baseball.

Hitting .400 is obviously outstanding but I don’t know how empty that .400 average would have been. Hitting .400 with a ton of singles is not as good as hitting .400 with power. The questions are 1)could the Babe really have hit .400 as often as he said he could have and 2)how much power would it have costs him had he shortened up in order to hit .400? Slugging .800+ is probably more valuable than hitting .400+.

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Few minute ago i was looking some of the other team Stat(Pitching)and wow…everyone have the same problem that the Braves..Compare team Era of the 4 contender team in the NL East: Phila: 4.85 Mets: 3.84 Fla: 4.42 Atlanta: 4.22 Those four team they only have two good Starter with a Good era Phila: Hamel,3.82 and Lieber 4.21 Mets: Perez,2.93 and hernandez,3.08 Fla: Mitre(in disabled) 2.29 and olsen,4.89 Braves: Smoltze,2.84 and Hudson,3.43 so guys we have the same problem that evrybody else.

By AthensBrave

June 20, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Lew and others, If Andruw continues at this pace throughout the season, how do you think it will effect him in free agency? Will the Braves have a chance to resign him if they even want to? I hope he snaps out of it, but its almost the all-star break

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

People also have to realize that in NYC, it is horrifying when the Steelers and Cowboys come to play the Giants, how half of Giants Stadium gets filled with Steelers and Cowboys fans.

Certain teams like the Red Sox and the Cubs and the Yankees and the Mets have huge national fan bases similar to the Cowboys and Steelers in the NFL. Some say they travel well. That’s a rather poor explanation.

They have huge bandwagon fan bases in cities like Atlanta. Those 4 teams are talked about more than any other team in baseball just like the Boys and the Steelers. This is because they have such huge national fan bases. In turn, because those teams are marketed so much, those teams gain even more bandwagon fans.

Plus, there are alot of transplants down here from those cities. Those people are going to still root for their old home teams. If their fathers were fans of those teams, then it is likely that they will be fans of those teams even if they grew up here.

For example, I get the impression sometimes from reading articles that Frenchy was a big Braves fan growing up. But his dad was a big Red Sox fan who was a transplant from New England. I think Frenchy also grew up as a Red Sox fan because he is his daddy’s child. Has anyone ever asked him if he was more of a Red Sox fan or a Braves fan growing up? An honest answer probably will not be given at this point. Sometimes, I get the feeling that he loved the Red Sox more than the Braves but that is just the feeling I get from reading articles. You gotta question the loyalty of Mr. Georgia football when he commits to Clemson instead of Georgia although I don’t know how hard Georgia went after him. Maybe he was part of the transplant problem in that he was his daddy’s child and not ga-ga over the local teams like the natives.

Alot of northerners transplant down here for many different reasons. You can’t forget the history of the south and norther cities in how often they were back and forth between living and working in the South and living in working in Chicago, Detroit, NYC, or Boston depending upon the well being of the economy. Loyalties become split with all of that. Especially since when alot of the flux in migration was occurring when the braves were not here. So grandpa and great grandpa might have worked in factories in the north for a few months of the year or even for a few years and then returned home. But since there was no baseball here, he might have turned into a big Cubs, Cardinals, Tigers, Red Sox, or Yankees fan since that was the only baseball he got to see live in that era when he spent time working in those cities. He then passed that passion on to his son and the rest of his family.

You can never underestimate the power of SEC football and how well they market their teams as the pride and symbols of their state. Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, LSU, Arkansas. Those teams gain more passion and pride for Southerners because the schools have done a much better job marketing it than the Braves.

I think there has been poor marketing as well. The Cubs are seen as Chicago. The Cardinals are seen as middle America. The Mets and Yanks are NYC. The Red Sox are New England. The Braves should be seen as the team from the Southeast and for many of us they are. But the Braves never developed a culture around them where they came close to being a defining cultural symbol of the Southern sports fan. Maybe it was not possible.

Ted Turner was a good owner. He kind of tried, especially with TBS. But it almost feels like the Braves gave TBS to the fans but then just left it at that. The teams were awful for the most part. So, for most Southerners, the Braves became a Southern pasttime and not a Southern passion.

AND NOW we don’t even have freaking TBS anymore.

Oh, I could go on and on and on about this. BUT those are just some of my thoughts

By Robert

June 20, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Bob, Lew and Shaun….

OK, OK, maybe a little optimism. Being a life long Braves fan, the past 15 years have spoiled me. I do have scary flashbacks of the days, when, this time of the year, we were looking forward to the September call-ups and looking towards “next year”. It isn’t that bad yet, and I certainly don’t want to throw in my chips for this year.

As for Andruw, I am beginning to think this years frustrations are due to the contract year, Scott Boras, visions of dollar signs, etc. Andruw probably entered into this year thinking about the money he would be counting after this year and just can’t handle that pressure now. He knows that with the numbers where they are, the jackpot at the end of they year is diminishing daily. Like DOB said earlier .250 is looking highly unlikely now, looking more like .225 is the best he can hope for.

One final thought to ponder…. Would Pete Orr or Chris Woodward be on any other teams roster? Geez, these guys blow!!

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

I know that this team needs pitching - but this team needs offense too. We need a consistant bat in the middle of the line up. Francouer and McCann just aren’t consistant. And forget Andruw - he’ going to be lucky to hit .225 this year.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Shaun I can’t agree with you on homers being the most important measure of a hitter.The stat that takes everything into account is ops,if a player maintains high ops he will be a successful hitter at any point in the batting order.A team with high ops players from top to bottom of the order can’t be pitched to or around.It would be without holes.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

Efrim-Dude, I know it seems like I’m always on your case and maybe I am. If only you would quit making those stupid declarations. You have stated in the past that JoJo Reyes and Matt Harrison will be no better than #4 or #5 starters. You still never answered my question on where you got your crystal ball that told you this. Now you claim Francoeur can not be expected to put up more than a .450 SLG. How the hell do you know any of this? Dude, Francoeur is hitting 60 points above where he was at this time last year. He can now hit to right when the situation calls for it. That isd called maturation in a hitter. Yes, his power is down, but so is the league wide power. The kid IS only 23 and has all the talent in the world. He HAS made improvement. Who are you to say it’s not ENOUGH imporovement. You come on here daily and make some stupid bombastic statement that can’t possibly be backed up with any meaningful numbers and declare it to be Gospel. You’re wrong again. As usual.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

I don’t know jack%$#* about baseball. But, I am a fan and a Braves fan and I do enjoy reading the posts of you guys,and gals, who do know the game. Thanks for giving an old man the chance to say: “Hey, that’s right!”—and I wish I had said it.

By Daxxed

June 20, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

mr baseball Instead of a double play we would have a sure runner at 2nd and 3rd. And Chipper hitting. One run is a start to two or three. But a double play is an inning killer. We did it how you said was the correct way an d lost. The Mets had the same situation this year and bunted the runners over, then that changed the game situaition. And they ended up winning. When you get a runner on 2nd with no outs and especially 2nd and 3rd. Bunt, two runners in scoring postiion with one out is better than a double play. Then all though CJ hit into an out, we would have had one run instead of none. And when you get one run it only leads to more, but with none that is it none.

By HEAVEN

June 20, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

the pitching coach of the Atlanta Braves is the same Roger McDowell that Keith Hernandez blamed for spitting on Kramer and Newman in “the boyfriend” episode of Seinfeld?

By GT80

June 20, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

The AJ debacle has reached epic status. Something must be done NOW! I’m proposing some fans perform a sacrafice in the plaza tonight to purge the evil spirits. Burn some incense, sprinkle spirits on an effigy of AJ, send him a bone necklace to put up in his locker, have a mass (everybody in the outfield seats) Indian chant to the spirits.

DOB, please organize this from your bully pulpit. Please do it now before AJ hits the Mendoza line. Tomorrow will be too late.

By BamaBrave

June 20, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see how Francoeur progresses…and I’d be thrilled just to see the kind of plate discipline he demonstrated more often in April and May. When the knuckleheads at ESPN know you’re going to swing at the first pitch, you’ve really been exposed.

But isn’t this an example of the overall dysfunction between the players and the coaches? Why would Francoeur revert to his free swinging mentality? WHY?? Why did McCann get the key help he needed from Dad, as opposed to Pendleton? Why does Thorman swing like a crazy person? Andruw’s woes get the most attention, but they ALL seem to ignore advice. I know…I know…hitting a baseball is one of the hardest things to do it sports. Slumps happen. But I’d hate to be one of our coaches right now. I’d feel pretty worthless, and lacking in authority, ‘cuz the boys ain’t listening…apparently.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Ok, first things first - that’s a different Robert at 11:09

Now, Bob, addressing your post of 5:45:

In my opinion, this blog can serve three basic purposes.

1) A place for Braves fans to discuss what is right and/or wrong with the team, and hopefully in some way help contribute to fixing things if they are wrong

2) A place for Braves fans to make friends with fellow Braves fans

3) A place for fans to cheer their team

My PRIMARY interest is in #1. If it’s a perfect world, and 2 and 3 can also occur without compromising #1, then that’s great.

Now, since it aint a perfect world, my position is that I am willing to alienate a few bloggers if pointing out the team’s problems means doing that.

When it comes to the team’s problems, I agree that it might be boring, that it might be frustrasting, and that it might have not much chance of changing things - but I believe that there is only one problem that merits discussion, because until the big problem is solved, all the little problems can be solved, or be replaced with different little issues, but it will all be irrelevent

Now, WHY do I think that Cox is the overriding problem. Because I believe in Ocham’s razor. I believe that luck, if there is such a thing, can be influenced by decision making. I believe that if in fact the Braves hitters choke up every year in the playoffs, and their pitchers dont perform as well as in the regular season, then, given that over the past 17 years, it’s been different hitters, and different pitchers all doing the same choking, then LOGIC says that it is something common to all those players, and common to all those situations, that is to blame

Have there been individual circumstances where the Braves failed and it wasnt Cox’s fault. YES! There have been times when there was a better team, and times when a best-option strategy just didnt work out.

But can we say that for 16 years running, with the exception of 1995, that the Braves were either just not that good, or so ungoldly unlucky, that it explains their underachievement.

ABSOLUTELY NOT!

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

Adding to the ops argument.If you’re evaluating a free agent hitter.If he has a history of four or more years strait of high ops and he’s healthy.This player is a safer bet to continue his production than a pure power hitter.What you get is a Chipper Jones type hitter who not only has the tools.He also understands the craft and has a proven resistance to prolonged slumps.

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this

Braveheart I agree with you in some point…remenber when atlanta braves was calling ‘The America Team”..was because TBS..and talking about Marketing, the Braves it not Marketing the biggest groing population in the USA…The LatinoFans….The Braves not have a Latino Player than bring all this fan to the Ballpark…example in Boston(Big papi, Manny) in NY (Posada, Bernie william , Pedro,etc)The braves since Javy lopez not have that big latino player.Javy was loved in the Atlanta Area.And in the minor league i don’t think they have anyone with that marketing potential.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

GT80-I’d be more than happy to burn something in Andruw’s honor. I think I’ll go light it up now-and then listen to some Cult or maybe Lillian Axe. Sounds like a plan to me. Don’t know if it will break Andruw out of his slump, but it should improve MY outlook.

By bclontz

June 20, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

You remember how churches used to geyt together and pray for rain during a severe drought? Maybe we could all get together and pray for Andruw! He’s definately got issues, and until someone forces the issue with him, I don’t see it changing. For a player to make the turn around that he’s made, you have to suspect mental or chemical problems. The sneaky smirk is almost bizzare now. It’s almost as if he doesn’t know the difference between a hit and strikeout! His ability to judge the speed, type or even location of a pitch seems muddled. At this rate he’ll continue to be a brave forever, because at the end of the year Atlanta will be the only team willing to pay above 10 bucks for him. I think all true braves fans still love Andruw and appreciate all that he’s done in the past, but as for me, I want to see him get help, this has to stop! Footnote! Frenchy needs to stop mimicking Andruw….it’s not pretty anymore…..We are only in the race because the Mets have allowed us to be in the race because of their falling apart….it won’t last…..Here comes the Phillys……

By efrim

June 20, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this

Lew

Matt Harrison and Jo Jo Reyes aren’t going to be ace’s or #2 starters. I ain’t happening. Crystal ball??? Radar gun bro. There numbers do not indicate that they will be aces. Tommy Hanson?? Hell yes he has ace potential. Throws hard, downward slope. The guy is 6’6” and right handed. 56/9 K/BB ratio. Harrison gives up way too many hits in the MINORS to make me think that the guy is going to be any better than a #3 in the BIGS. 73 innings, 73 hits allowed. 5.89 K/9 innings. Thats better than a number 3???? There are your freeking stats punk.

Regarding Frenchy, I think he is slugging 426 right now. And I said he would finish at 450. I was hoping for something closer to 500. He is on pace for 18 home runs, I’m sure it will get better, but again, better being a 450 slugging percentage. That isn’t bad. The kid is a good player, but I was kind of hoping for superstar.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

You, who are nameless* Ocram’s razor. Is that made by Gillette?

By bclontz

June 20, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

HOW TO SHORTEN THE GAME!

THIRD STRIKE FOUL AN OUT!

Just like with the bunt! Third strike foul is an out!!!!!

By Bob

June 20, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Daxxed,

I am afraid Mr. Baseball is correct. You don’t give up an out to prevent a double play in the bottom of the 8th and trailing by 4 runs. Yeah, Escobar hit into a double play. Chipper bounced to 3d Base after that. IF the Braves had sent the lead runner the Red Sox might have thrown him out at the plate. Most likely they would have traded the run to throw out Chipper and traded the out for the run. With Jonathan Pappelbon in the bullpen, I think they felt pretty comfortable. Our best chance was to get to their setup man with a big inning. It didn’t work, but I would never have sacrificed in the 8th while trailing by 4 runs. Well, maybe I should qualify that. If we were facing the Braves bullpen from last year, then MAYBE I would have done it.

By Carolina Lady

June 20, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Jersey Gil, like all of us, journalist Bob is welcome to blog whenever he feels like it. When you’ve been around longer, you’ll gain some understanding. Does it really matter to you who blogs when?

Paladin, I’ve read about the incredible job done by the FACs and the daunting heroism y’all demonstrated daily. Many, many airmen owe their lives to your skill and daring. Your call sign is quite suitable. (Ever been to Cherry Point MCAS?)

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

JERSEYGIL,

I personally think the TBS America’s Team was kind of a failed marketing slogan. They were never going to become America’s team. They could, however, have become the passion of the Southern sports fan so they should have tried to appeal more to what the fan base would be that would actually come to their games. The problem was that Ted was trying to build up a television network and had to market more to a broad national base rather than a local regionalized fan base. what was better for the television network was not necessarily good for the team in developing a hard core local passionate fan base that would flock to the games.

I think Furcal, Andruw, and Edgar, et al. are Latino stars. But I don’t think the braves are very intelligent with how they appeal to the any of the fan bases. They don’t do a good job with the transplants, with the natives, with the Latinos, or with blacks. They don’t say to the natives that this is your team, our team, come support our team. They don’t tell the transplants, you loved baseball up there in the North, we play it better and do it the right way down here, come and check it out. They don’t mass market their Latino stars to the huge Latino fan base down here the way the Northern teams have done. And they have not had black stars, especially black homegrown stars here for several years. That has got to be hurting the attendance of black fans at games. They have done a much better job lately in appealing to local fans by drafting and calling up loca kids like BMAC, Frenchy, et al. They have marketed those guys real well. Attendance, as a result, has spiked up back over the 30,000 fans a game mark since Frenchy and BMAC arrived as the Baby Braves of 2005.

By Carolina Lady

June 20, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

Everyone using Firefox - there is a great add-on that will automatically refresh the page at whatever time interval you choose and, after refreshing, will place the page right where you left it. Great for this blog! LINK

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 12:01 PM | Link to this

This question is for everybody.Say I want to start a team,the Fakeville Clones.I can clone any player in history. Only offensive numbers are considered. He will man all nine positions in the batting order,every at bat.Has anybody done the math on which player would score the most runs in a game and season ? All on base numbers will be added (steals etc).

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger,

When did I ever say homeruns are the most important measure of a hitter?

I said Ruth was the most valuable player in history because in large part because he hit so many homeruns. Homeruns are the best offensive weapon but of course if you hit a lot of homeruns but make lots of outs in between, you may not be helping your team all that much.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

I just broke the right knee of my Andruw Jones bobblehead. Hopefully, this will bring him good luck and be my voodoo reminder to him that he needs to stay balanced and stop dropping down to his back knee.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Lew

Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw, Homer Bailey, Phillip Hughes, Clay Bucholz, Francisco Liriano, Matt Garza, Adam Miller, Felix Hernandez, Wade Davis, Luke Hochevar, Nick Adenhart and so on.

Those are future aces and #2 starters. Matt Harrison and Jo Jo Reyes are not.

By Carolina Lady

June 20, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

whoops! If at first….. :-)) LINK

By Fred from CT

June 20, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

bclontz that’s the stupidest idea I ever read in my life

By Robert

June 20, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

serbok - Just to let you know there seems to be another Robert this morning

Dude, I’m gonna call ‘em like I see ‘em

You know, there’s a point, where, even if he could not have been expected to ever even CONTEND for a playoff spot, when, after seventeen years without a championship, it would be time for a change.

In most every situation, in sports, in business, in the military, in LIFE - leaders are ultimately held accountable, even in hopeless situations. It is part of the burden of the job of leading.

Except with Bobby Cox. Here the exact opposite holds true. NOTHING is his fault, and he is given credit for hanging the moon when he was “genius” enough to do such brilliant things as pencil “Maddux” “Glavine”, or “Smoltz” into the SP spot 3 games out of 5, for the better part of a decade.

I think his in-game strategizing is HORRIBLE (and no few bloggers seem to agree to varying extents).

I know that all managers make mistakes. I know that all managers can be second guessed, and that hindsight is 20/20. My purpose is NOT to second guess his every move. Neither can I write off his frequant strategic mistakes just because everyone makes some.

But beyond that (and I have typed at length on it in the past) I think there is a fundamental flaw in Cox’s approach to the game, and particularly to playoff baseball.

Cox loses games two ways. Some games he makes a boneheaded strategic move that either loses the game right then and there, or puts him behind the 8-ball where, inevitably, as move and countermoves are made thru the game, at some point, the other guy has the edge, and the Braves would need to get lucky to win

The other way he loses games is his “crapshoot” philosophy, and his refusing to forego set line-ups and rotations to go with the hot hand in a short series.

And the latter is why it’s not just one hitter that has failed in the playoffs, but several, and not just one pitcher that blew it in the playoffs, but several.

A team is, ultimately, a reflection of their manager.

At some point, if the team is struggling and desperately needs to turn things around, Cox needs to quit being the players’ friend, and start being their boss.

If saying this alienates me to the blog, so be it

Anyone that supports Bobby Cox’s remaining as Braves manager is, to me, like a person with emphysema and lung cancer who continues to smoke - (i.e. - just plain irrational)

Bob, and everyone else, I ask you this. Let’s suppose the Braves make it to the playoffs, and you could somehow magically choose from ANY manager from history to lead them to the promised land.

Would you pick Bobby Cox?

You know what I’d do? I’d ask to be able to pick for the other team, and give THEM Bobby Cox

If you have no chance to win it all even when you make the playoffs, then, unless you are part owner of the team or sell Braves merchandise, there aint no real point in winning during the regular season

Rah-rah, sis-boom-bah, and a sugar cube for Eeyore

By Lew

June 20, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I repeat, Dude-Where’s your crystal ball? Radar Gun? Get real. I think K to BB ratio for a considerable number of innings pitched is a much better criterion than a radar gun, indicating potential future success. You don’t have to throw a ball 97+ to be effective. As a matter of fact, I could name numerous pitchers who throw that hard who are lousy. Conversely, I could name pitchers who barely make it to the low 90’s who are and have been quite successful. Does the name Tom Glavine souind familiar? How about Grg Maddux? Harrison has struck out 314 batters and only walked 82 throughout his entire minor league career. He has pitched 430 minor league innings. Reyes has 301K and 107BB in 309 IP in the minors. Reyes is at A+ and Harrison at AA. How can you possibly have any clue whatsoever as to where they will finally shake out in a ML rotation. NO FLIPPING IDEA, Dude. I think with K to BB ratios of 3 or 4 to 1, that speaks much more to future success than how hard they throw. As far as Francoeur, my point was that it don’t mean sh!t to a tree what YOU think his improvement should be. I don’t respect your opinion very often, anyway, but I pointed out that Francoeur has made substantial improvement. Yes, there is room for improvement. There always is. But to sit there and declare you KNOW where anyone will end up or how fast they are progressing is just flippin hilarious. And ludicrous.

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

Paladin:

Thanks for explaining your name for me. I graduated from Furman University in Greenville SC, and our mascot was the Paladin (knight on a horse) and I wondered if it came from there.

Your version is much cooler anyway.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this

A-Ville

Baseball-reference.com

Two statistics could be argued to provide the answer to your question

Runs Created per 27 outs made (RC/27), which is a theiretical calculation of how many runs a batting order of all player X would generate and career adjusted OPS

The answer is Babe Ruth

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Shaun Fair enough.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 12:23 PM | Link to this

ROBERT NIFONG

We get the point!

By Robert

June 20, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

A-Ville - The only chinks in RC/27 would be that I’m not sure how it accounts for steals, and two, how much a player’s surrounding team effected the numbers that went into calculating the RC/27 figure (in other words, how good the normalization parameters are that are incorporated into the formulae)

Ruth-12.93 Williams-12.04 Gehrig-11.14

How much did Ruth’s numbers (and therefore his theoretical solo production) benefit from having the third best guy on the list as a teammate for so long?

For what it’s worth, as far as I’m concerned, Ted Williams achieved his goal

And I hope, that no matter how old you are, whether 6 or 106, that you know what I mean by the Ted Williams reference

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

How do you propose the Braves reach Latinos, transplants and locals?

I don’t see that they are doing much different than most other teams.

And the Braves are trying to win. That’s their primary goal with concern to the players they draft and call up. I doubt they would take a lesser local talent over a more talented guy from say Texas.

I think the Braves are doing okay in attendance.

Any drop is probably due to the perception that they don’t have a legit shot to win the World Series. If you look back, you’ll notice attendance dropped after they broke their string of three consecutive 100-win seasons, 1997-1999, and hasn’t been the same since probably because they’ve only been to one NLCS since then.

There’s the perception (and perhaps the reality) that the Braves stopped being a dominant team in the early 2000’s, although they were still a really good or great team for quite a while after that. And when you are in the playoffs every year, really good or great looks less appealing than it would if the Braves weren’t really good or great every year.

But I don’t think the attendance is all that bad if you look beyond the surface—not many people live or work within walking distance of the stadium, there are a lot of transplants, the perception (and reality) that the Braves are less dominant than they used to be, the fact that they’ve only been in Atlanta since 1966 and a passion for the Braves isn’t so much passed down from generation to generation, Turner Field is a pretty large stadium and difficult to sell out.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

Lew

Does the name Tom Glavine souind familiar? How about Grg Maddux?

Did you just compare Matt Harrison to Tom Glavine or Greg Maddux? They come along once a freeking century bro. The majority of “Aces” miss bats in the majors.

How can you possibly have any clue whatsoever as to where they will finally shake out in a ML rotation. NO FLIPPING IDEA

Then why do publications such as BaseballAmerica even bother dude

Answer me that.

As far as Francoeur, my point was that it don’t mean sh!t to a tree what YOU think his improvement should be. I don’t respect your opinion very often, anyway, but I pointed out that Francoeur has made substantial improvement.

You don’t respect my opinion? Then don’t fing reply to my posts. I could care less. I’m a negative Braves fan because this team went to the playoffs 14 years and won 1 world series. And the fing Mets and Phillies have Ryan Howard. Chase Utley, Jose Reyes, and David Wright who are SUPERSTARS NOW. Better than our young players who will eventually become superstars.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

Lew

Find me Chuck James and Kyle Davies minor league stats…..

What do you consider them right now???

You probably think they are future #2’s.

By David-ATL14

June 20, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

DOB, unimpeachable sources have Joey Devine being recalled today. What have you heard?

Thanks.

By Robert

June 20, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

“ROBERT NIFONG

We get the point!”

NO YOU DONT!!!!

If you did, you’d be calling for Cox to be canned

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Well I got this much to say… I like winning for yet another reason these days. It’s good for the team, good for me, good for the blog spirits, keeps the Met fans away and limits the posts from the horse fly that hangs around here talking about jack@asses.

AJ is not having the season anyone invisioned. But his defense is solid. At least he isn’t booting every ball that comes his way. His next step ought to be an attempt to actually apply whatever he is learning in the cages, instead of just relying on instinct when he’s at the plate. What harm could that do? He isn’t hitting anything anyway. Perhaps he should hit from the left side while he’s at it.
If nothing else, he needs to be benched before he gets below .200 on the season. His defense will be missed, but what’s left to do?

By BravesFanInRockies

June 20, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Folks,

I’m worrying more about pitching than offense (even though Andruw has become an equal-opportunity rally killer — he can stop an opposing team’s offense with his glove and his own side’s with his bat).

Our #1 starter is still brilliant but showing signs of wear and tear and obviously dinged up. It’s not a good idea for him to go deep into games unless his pitch count is really low.

Our #2 starter is also dinged up (according to DOB’s story today) and has had durability probs the past couple of years.

Our #3 starter seems to do it with mirrors. Doesn’t throw hard but relies on fly outs. Throws way too many pitches to rack up innings.

Our #4 starter is now Buddy Carlyle, who’s pitching better than our #2 and #3 guys. For the past two starts anyway. He’s a great story, and I’m delighted he’s come through so far, but is he the sort you can rely on to anchor a rotation in a pennant race?

Our #5 starter … yeah, right.

I don’t see any solutions on the horizon, because I can’t see an abundance of starting pitchers anywhere. I would love to be pleasantly surprised.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

If you have no chance to win it all even when you make the playoffs, then, unless you are part owner of the team or sell Braves merchandise, there aint no real point in winning during the regular season

Except that winning in the regular season is what gets you to the playoffs.

Would you pick Bobby Cox [to manage in the post-season]?

Yes. It’s not his fault the Braves haven’t had what greatly increases a teams chances to win in the playoffs: power pitching and a great closer.

Also, go back to the chart I put up last week. The Braves exceeded in-depth preseason projections (Diamond Mind) and Pythagorean/expected record by a great deal from 1998-2006. At worst, it doesn’t seem Cox has cost the Braves wins.

(By the way, I wouldn’t blame Schuerholz, either, for no power pitching nor a great closer. If the Braves go for more power pitching or a great closer maybe they don’t win in the regular season as often.)

By Lee

June 20, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

I enjoy this blog and it is very entertaining but thank goodness some of you are not associated with major league baseball and the Braves in any way, shape or form. The rules of the games itself would be changing and not to mention the Braves team would be changed constantly whether it be the line-up or players. All decisions would be based on the outcome of the previous game. A private jet would be needed daily just to fly the players back and forth from the minors to the majors.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

Efrim-No I compared Maddux and Glavine to pitchers who have achieved major levels of success, despite not throwing hard. My point on this entire topic is that you don’t have a freaking clue where A and AA pitchers will end up in a ML rotation based on radar gun readings. Guess what? You DON’T have a clue. One more thing here, you flipping moron. Call me a punk one more time and I will make it my mission to intellectually punish your moronic a$$ every time you make another one of your lame, unverifiable statements. Knowing you and your level of utter idiocy, that should be all too frequently. Come up with decent arguments or go back to your sandbox, little boy.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

Robert Exactly, I’m looking for the cleanest,most independent,valuation I can get.That’s the point of a team of cloned stats.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Efrim: Chuck James minor league stats

Kyle Davies minor league stats

Both of these guys did well in the minors. Chuck was unbelievable. 443/109 K/BB in 378.1 innings with a 2.09 ERA

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Robert,

There is a Runs Created formula that takes steals into account. BaseballReference uses the most basic formula, which does not, but even it is usually accurate within a 5 percent margin.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

A player that would rank higher with my measure than RC/27 is Ty Cobb,the 900+ steals would add to his total bases.Where it gets tricky is steals don’t move the other runners so that would need to be factored in.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Wow, Lew!!! That reminds me of the A$$ chewings I got as a 2LT. Hooooah.

By Lee

June 20, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

If Andruw does hang around this level of play (offense wise) for the remainder of the season, whatever team that does sign him in the off-season needs to be very careful on the amount. This could affect many signings of years to come . Boras can grip all he wants but the only real ones to blame are the ones who actually agree to pay some of these outrageous salaries. Defense alone does not justify Jones receiving an elaborate amount of money. A 200 battling average this far into the season is not acceptable. And please don’t say be patient he will come around - I honestly don’t believe he is going to do jacks$$$ with the bat this year. Especially not enough for millions of dollars. Right now A.J. deserves nothing more than a 1 year deal. This would give everyone a chance to see if this is a fluke year or if this is a sign of things to come from him.

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Carolina Lady To answer you ???no i don’t care…but my post was more a concern about this kid (i think he are)sleep disorder. If you look all the post he make since last night.

By JasonInMaine

June 20, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

David-ATL14,

Where did you hear that? Did you hear who was getting sent down?

On a separate note, does anyone yet know why Edgar was pulled from the game last night?

Regards,

Jason

By MBATL

June 20, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

All the debate about whether the Braves have a chance to win the division, or to win in the playoffs, reminds me of the old, old joke, where 2 guys are camping in the woods, getting ready to go to sleep, when a grizzly bear approaches their tent. Guy One starts putting on his tennis shoes:

Guy Two: What are you doing, man? You’re never gonna outrun that bear?

Guy One: I don’t have to outrun the bear, I just have to outrun you!

At the beginning of the season, pretty much everyone expected the 4 top teams in the NL East to “beat each other up”, and that the Nats would be one of the worst teams in baseball history. Well, the top four teams are doing that, and the Nats are actually playing pretty decent too.

Within the division, the Mets are 1 game over .500; the Marlins are 1 game under; everyone else (including Washington) is exactly at .500.

With the tough interleague schedule the Mets and Braves play, and the obvious fact that none of these teams are great, it’s very possible that 85 wins will win the division.

Considering that the Braves have actually played their best baseball against good teams, I’ll take my chances in the playoffs, no matter how mediocre our record in getting there. I do think we need to try to get a serviceable #3-type starter, unless Davies, James and Carlyle pick it up a notch in the next month.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I have no idea where Davies and James will end up. I do not have a crystal ball. Are they number two starters now? Absolutely not. Will they be if and when they get their heads together with the correct mechanics? Who knows. Not me and certainly not you. Forget minor league numbers for a minute and look at ML stats for the following pitchers. Tom Glavine went 7-17 in his second season in the bigs and 9-21 his first two. After his first four seasons he was 33-41. Greg Maddux was 6-14 in his second season and 8-18 after his first two. Sandy Koufax was 36-40 after his first SIX seasons in MLB. John Smoltz was 78-75 through his first seven years. I think everyone will acknowledge that all of these pitchers could be, should be and are considered aces or at the very least, top line #1 or #2 starters. What would your evaluation of them have been at thatose points in their careers. There is just no way on the face of this earth that you, me. or anyone else can gaze into the future and see where it will all shake up. You can note trends that may give you some optimistic outlet ( or pessimistic, since that seems to be your goal), but you have no idea. Harrison is at AA and Reyes at high A ball. It is way too soon for you two tell us that you absolutely know what their futures hold in store. You also need to leard the art of argument. Amateur.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

I’d speculate that if a call up and send down is coming, McBride would be sent down. He hasn’t really aided his cause to be a situational anything.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

JasoninMaine,

The only thing I have heard is that Edgar’s back might have tightened up a little during the rain delay. I know he has had some back problems lately. Several of his throws to first were very high last night, including one which pulled Thorman off the base. Doesn’t sound serious but maybe DOB will have something on it later this PM.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I appreciate your points in furthering that attendance discussion. Your points are well taken.

Robert Nifong, enjoyed reading your faulty Warren Commission Report once again. You truly are the lazy detective and lazy prosecutor that wants to force feed a simplistic Bobby Cox as the lone gunman theory on us.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

Bob-I had to prove to Braveheart that despite my kinder, gentler leanings, I am still the Enforcer.

By JasonInMaine

June 20, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Bob,

Thanks for the info!

Regards,

Jason

By macdwolfpack

June 20, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Dave or Carroll, what’s going on with Joey Devine. He’s been called up and is in Atlanta but no moves announced and no one acknowledging he’s there?

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Jersey Gil: Bob, Journalist blogs at all hours because he is older than Moses and he feels like it. He has earned the right to do so without being questioned by people from Jersey. Please have some respect for your elders.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Shaun A vertual tip of my cap to you.I googled sabermetric RC/27 and RC/600 the version they showed takes steals as an adjusted value into account….Very comprehensive stuff.

By Grambling

June 20, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Lew, you’re a tool.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

Never had any doubt about it, Lew. Just had to make sure you were not doubting yourself.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Lew, Well, you were dealin. Doesn’t hurt that I agree with you. Lots of folks forget those early years for Glavine, Maddux, Koufax and others. It is just too damn early to make pronouncements on how these young guys are going to do over a career.

Someone earlier today rightfully mentioned that if management reacted to everything people on this blog wanted done they would need a fleet of corporate jets and all the gold in Fort Knox just to run day to day ops.

By CD

June 20, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

Aw… you missed a fan-damn-tastic Wilco show - rain and all. And a very nice and appreciative Jeff Tweedy.

By macdwolfpack

June 20, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Also look like Jo Jo Reyes has been moved permanently to Richmond now versus spot start

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Oh, Ey, Whoa, Oah, Hey. This is what I thought when Jersey Gil called out Bob Journalist:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFON1IE13Lg

By Lew

June 20, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Grambling-So? You’re point is?

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

This remind me the all 55 club…you have to be 55 to joint them….hummm…Again i don’t question him ever..i respect his opinion..and all other opinion, my concern was again his health. And by the way i think i’m older than him.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Now Bob-What? You don’t think we could get Scott Kazmir and Carl Crawford for Davies? Why are you insisting on rationality?

By Daxxed

June 20, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

No Bob, wrong once again. the Dodgers have done it this year, the Mets have done it this year and if you keep lookiing other teams have done it already this year. With a runner on third the pictures approach is changed. One there is more chance of him getting rattled with a runner iin eye shot the entire windup. Sure they could have wlaked CJ. But would they with Mc commming up. And if they pitch to CJ, the whole approach is changed with a runner 90 feet away instead of 180. BUt we will never know, what we do know that your way did not WIN. And it will soon be funny when pitchers walk batters to get to AJ. Which is amlmost guaranteed a whiff…AJ one guaranteed out. Never thought I would see it though.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t worry about Edgar’s back. He’s had occasional back problems for a decade. He takes care of it every day with extensive exercises and does stretching stuff with one of those big rubber balls you see in gyms but you or I never use because we have no clue and don’t want to look like jackballs trying to lay on top of them or whatever….

CD, they played right through the rain and all, right?

I heard there were a few too many hippy dudes dancing, made it feel a bit too jam-band for some old-school Wilco fans. But that was just one fan’s opinion, and I wasn’t there. So you tell me.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Jersey Gil-Are you 116 years old? That’s about how old Journalist Bob is-or at least how old he feels most of the time. Such old timers as Bobby Dews treeat him deferentially because of his quite advanced age. That’s why he spends so much time in the hot tub. Sleeps there, too. We wake him in time for games and periodically send him Maple Syrup to give him energy. We venerate him, though, and will probably put up a cyber shrine to him when he’s gone to meet his maker. If we can get one of his old medicine bottles, we’ll start a reliquary.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

A-ville Ranger: Steels should be included to make logical sense. A run is four bases, as in, the player must cross 4 bases to create 1 run. A sum of all bases, with SB being a negative base divided by appearances produces fairly accurate results without the constants. But even still, personally I don’t find Runs Created or Run Potential all that helpful. You can learn just as much, or more, about the player by just looking at the components of the formulas.
However, I do find the research on Stolen Bases pretty fascinating. What a “successfull base steeler” should have as a SB/CS ratio or percentage. I haven’t looked at it in a while, but if I recall correctly, it’s around 75% success rate to be a productive base steeler.

By Lee

June 20, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Lew, you’re a tool.

Is that a compliment or a cut?

By Bob

June 20, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Actually Lew, I was really hoping to get Beckett for Orr. I know it is a stretch but maybe the Red Sox would throw in Youkilis too. If that doesn’t work there is always Woodward for Ben Sheets. Best yet would be both deals. That would just about seal the NL East for sure.

By David

June 20, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

DOB Wilco Review

Good show, started off with 4 new ones off Sky Blue Sky. That album is different, lots of very mellow moments with some heavy melodic leads, no real riffs to speak of. Hate it Here and Impossible Germany were great.

Only ONE song off Being There. Outtamind Outtasite was the last encore. Now people will always complain about not playing the right songs or old songs but in my opinion, with as freaking hard as it rained, they should’ve played a few cuts off of Being There and AM, just to get the crowd into it. Slow melodies in pouring down rain just didn’t seem to work that well.

Only other problem is because of the city ordinace, it’s just not loud enough and we were very close.

Finally, Tweedy was very impressed with the crowd for staying through the pouring down rain. He even didn’t go into his typical W tirade :-)

Good show, great location but I prefer the Fox.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Macdwolfback, I didn’t see Joey yesterday, but that means nothing. Sometimes he looks so much like Kyle Davies from the other side of the clubhouse, i get them confused.

He could have been called up in case of rain delays or a doubleheader today (obviously that didn’t happen).

But they might also be prepared to make a move. I haven’t heard anything yet, but will let you know soon as I do.

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, that was hilarious. You remind me of myself sometimes (which is not necc. a good thing).

Jersey Gil, I did not realize you were an elder yourself; my apologies.

Off to the gym.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

DOB-You’re right. Hippie Dudes should never dance. We’re too old for that type of behavior. It’s time to go offer those burnt offerings in the name of Andruw’s slump. Maybe some Dirty Looks “Cool To The Wire” will aid the transformation to his hitting glory. Or with all of this talk of JoJo Reyes and radar guns, a little JoJo Gunne “Bite Down Hard.” Later y’all-it’s been a blast. I’m off to see the Wizard and a walk through the Yellow Brick Potato Patch.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Renegator No I have no ties to Furman and their knight. Seven generations of my family have gone to Athens. But, one gets a good education at Furman and I’m sure I bored you with some of my “background”. But, I’m glad now, under the circumstances, that I left out one section. The knights or “horses” in chess were once called “Paladins”, but you knew that, didn’t you?

In closing, my mission from here on out is whatever I do, don’t p#$s off Lew!

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Lew….LOL….thanks i need that… By the way…what you think intead the braves bring up Lerew, bring Will Startup…he is a lefty…and send Mcbride down.

By 22oz

June 20, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

From the too good to be true dept: Monday, June 25th vs the Nats is Andruw Jones bat night! Well, he gives away at-bats, might as well give away bats too.

By ncscoots

June 20, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

don’t want to look like jackballs trying to lay on top of them or whatever…

Yes, indeed, jackballed is only a trifle above Whitesnaked, IMO. Denzines and blogmeisters advised to avoid both with all due haste.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN (or soon to be in): Devine has indeed been called up. Braves are going to make a move this afternoon, I believe a relatively minor trade, but not certain yet.

Anyway, Devine’s going to be added to the 25-man roster, so educated guess is they’re trading a pitcher. I don’t know who, however. Should know in an hour or two, if not sooner.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

Daxxed,

Well we will just have to agree to disagree.

I have no clue as to whether the Mets or Dodgers have done it or not. Of course it is possible that sacrificing might have worked. But using your scenario and had the Red Sox walked Chipper, then McCann is up. He is the most likely double play candidate on the team….well at least next to Andruw…who, oh by the way was the next guy up.

I strongly believe that this was played right. You go for the big inning BEFORE the best closer in Baseball enters the fray. It did not work but it was the right move.

By Sergio

June 20, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Joey Devine was called to Atlanta. is this true Dave?

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

You make a good point. Success rate is often as important if not more than just looking at number of steals. What good is stealing 50 bases if you are going to get caught 50 times?

And Runs Created is valuable because it estimates how many runs a player contributes to a team. Although its components can tell you a lot about a player, RC can tell you what he was worth to his team in terms of runs and allows you to judge a player’s offensive value without having to look at several stats.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Didn’t Startup pitch for my Dawgs? Of course a Bulldog should be in Atlanta. Logic dictates such a move. Now Bulldogs (see Scribe-a non-baseball transition). Larry Munson is contemplating retirement. The man is a true Bulldog legend and will be sincerely missed. I hope he does one more season since XM will now carry Bulldog games and I would love to hear Munson one for more year. There has never been a bigger or more knowledgeable Dawgs fan than Mr. Munson. However, his health is not what it could be and he’s 84. We need to give a blog cheer for this man. Maybe make him an Honorary Wurlitzer Winner. What do y’all think? Give the Dude his props.

By pub

June 20, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Mendoza called…he wants his line back. He thinks we would have already changed it to the “Curacao line” in Andruw’s honor if our keyboards had that special “c”.

Andruw’s nonchalant attitude about his hitting - er, swinging - should get that “pull” hitter PULLED from the lineup.

Is he that stubborn or just not thinking? Best advice for Andruw: Go to the Emerald City. Ask the Wizard for a brain.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Lew

I mean punk a* bi**. Again, you are bringing up pitchers such as Glavine, Maddux and Smoltz when we are discussing Chuck James and Kyle Davies. You also didn’t answer my statement regarding Baseball America. If it is impossible to predict what pitchers in Double A and Single A will project like in the majors, then why have a publication like Baseball America. Your an idiot bro.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

See Lew!!!! Dave will soon confirm the trade of Orr for Beckett. Heard the Sox declined to throw in Youkilis.

Paladin, you are right about Lew. Reminded me of my old Battalion Commander.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Could it be Elijah Dukes??? He is out of the lineup for the Rays

By ncscoots

June 20, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

I haven’t looked at it in a while, but if I recall correctly, it’s around 75% success rate to be a productive base steeler.

In today’s offensive environment, I’d peg that closer to 80%. But I doubt that many speed fans on THIS blog care about the efficacy of the strategy, as long as someone is “making something happen”. Even when that “something” is removing a baserunner and wasting an out.

Hmm, let’s see…who’s the best basestealer out there? Reyes? He’s stolen 38 bases (right at 80%) and scored 49 runs. As opposed to Kelly Johnson, who has a handful of stolen bases and has scored 46 runs.

Lot of risk for not much (greater) return.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Could not agree more on Larry. Look at the Sugar Falling from the Sky!!

By Lee

June 20, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I just had soon the Braves keep 14 pitchers on the staff and send Woodward and Orr both down or release them, trade them for straight cash or do whatever it takes to get rid of them. Cash is about the only thing you could get in a trade and I am not talking hundreds either.

By snowball's chance

June 20, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Tbs isn’t televising a Braves game until the 30th. Lucky that espn has three Braves games in a week. Only good thing about the interleague schedule.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

I believe it’s because Dukes is injured. Not sure if he’s on the DL but I’m pretty sure he’s hurt.

By Steve

June 20, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this

Efrim,

Are you nuts?!? Why would we pick up a guy who is a CF/LF, hitting .190, and having many off-field issues????

By Lee

June 20, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Please the Braves do not need Elijah Dukes. He seems to have an little attitude problem with Tampa Bay. Of course who would not have one with the Devial Rays. With Dukes and “Pacman” Jones running the streets of Atlanta, local residents may not be able to go out at night.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

ncscoots,

According to Baseball Prospectus, it is 75 percent.

Also, looking at Reyes and Johnson’s runs scored may not tell us much about the value of the steal. Runs scored are largely dependent on the hitters behind the baserunner.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

He has potential. He probably is being sent down, as suppose to getting traded.

By HP

June 20, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Joey Devine? Every time I think of his name is that he gives up nothing but grand slams. I hope it turns out better this season.

By SR

June 20, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Oh joy, Joey Devine has been called up!! In the words of Inspector Clouseau, the problem is sol-ved!! This is bound to have as big an impact as putting Lance Cormier in the rotation! Champagne for all!!

By meansonny

June 20, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Lew,

Mr. Munson IS the Georgia Bulldawgs.

I pray he does another year. My son is now at the tender age when he might remember that voice. & I’d love the Dawgs sending him out with a BCS Title!

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Steve,

I agree that the Braves probably wouldn’t go after a guy with so many issues but I don’t think his .190 average has much to do with anything. He’s still young enough and talented enough to make something of himself if he can get his issued worked out. But I don’t think the Braves are the type of organization to try to nurture a troubled young man.

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

DOB: Any idea what the minor trade could be?

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

His OPS is higher than Andruw’s. God that is so sad. Dukes has talent, but I agree with you all, why would the Braves want him.

By doug

June 20, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Want a good laugh, go to the Braves web-site and look at that picture of Julian Tavares. If I was a MLB exec, I would take him out for a drug test and I don’t mean for steriods.

Didn’t we have him reduced to tears after a playoff series one time? Who did he play for then, the Pirates??

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Payne: I’m still not buying into RC.

By MBATL

June 20, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Munson fans, you might enjoy THIS.

You can download audio files of a lot of Munson’s famous calls over the years. I’ve saved ‘em, for posterity’s sake, and play them at tailgating parties… always fun.

Hard to imagine GA football without Larry.

As to Dukes, apparently he pulled a “Kobe” and went off on a Tampa radio station this morning… and the Rays are likely to trade or release him. But, I really can’t see the Braves getting involved in all that.

Here is the link, if you haven’t seen it…

By Fred Secunda

June 20, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

Not sure if y’all saw, but Michael Barrett has been traded to the Padres. I wonder if the Cubs would be interested in Salty in a deal that begins with either Rich Hall or Sean Marshall?

By HP

June 20, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Cubs traded Michael Barrett to San Diego Padres for Chis Bowen and a minor league player. Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said Barrett’s arguments this month with pitchers Carlos Zambrano and Rich Hill had nothing to do with the deal. Barrett stats this season: .256BA 9HR 29RBI. Bowen stats this season: .268BA 2HR 11RBI. Why would they trade their all-star caliber catcher if they had no problem with him. What they need help is bullpen. I don’t see how this trade is any good for cubs. The padres got the best out of this deal.

By HP

June 20, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

sorry, it is Rob Bowen, not Chris Bowen.

By Yars

June 20, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

If I were Bobby, I would rest Andruw tonight, since there is no game Thursday. Maybe it will help. Heck, it won’t hurt. Put Harris in CF tonight with Diaz in LF.

By rammerjammer

June 20, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

Maybe the Braves called up Devine to deal him. There’s a market out there for a 23-year-old who’s lights-out in AA. I mean, 31 IP, 47 Ks and 16 saves. I can imagine some teams taking a chance.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

MBATL,

Thanks for the Larry hilights. Also, after reading more about Dukes, thanks but no thanks. I know some out there feel we need more fire in the clubhouse, but we don’t need napalm. I hope this is not the trade that DOB is talking about.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

I have been known to concentrate narrowly for long periods of time (much as my mix breed dog will stare up a tree for hours at a squirrel).My last word on the subject of a stat to best quantify a players offensive production for now.The RC/27 or RC/600 if adjusted to give credit for longevity to players like Aaron is the best I see now.If you know of a site to find comprehensive list for players numbers please post it. thanks

By Lee

June 20, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

The Barrett trade makes the Padres an even better team. They may already be arguably the best team in the N.L.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

You can buy it or not.

Fact is if you plug the formula into team stats, it’s usually accurate within a 5 percent margin. That’s both when you plug in team totals and when you plug in individual players totals then add up their runs created.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Is there a chance we brought up Devine and dealt Yates for a starter???

Probably not. Yates has been great. Not to mention we need to hold onto all of our relievers.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Trade report: Woodward and McBride for Griffey Jr, who has agreed to fill in off the bench as the utility infielder and 6th outfielder. We’ve been looking for that veteran bench bat, now we got him.

By AthensBrave

June 20, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Will Startup was a fine diamond dawg, and has put up great numbers for the Braves so far. When will the organization give him a chance at the major league level?

By Thrillhouse44

June 20, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Snowball’s Chance, TBS has this Sunday’s game at 1:05. Didn’t want you to miss it - they’re not on there a lot.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

rammerjammer,

If they were going to deal Devine, he wouldn’t be in Atlanta. They don’t have to call him up to deal him.

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Logical trade out of the pen would be either Paronto or Oscar V. Don’t see them trading their only lefthander, (Mcbride) or anyone from Moylan, Yates back to the big 2 we have left.

Starter wise, don’t see giving anyone up there cause we’re hurting at that position anyway. It would have to be more than a “minor” trade to move Davies and Carlyle ain’t going nowhere right now….considering his last couple of starts.

From the standpoint of who or should I say what we might get…. we got a log jam at catcher. First may be coming around. Second is fine. Short is covered. Third is covered. The utility guy we need is here (Escobar) We have a great platoon situation in left. Andruw could kill somebody and he’s not coming out and neither is Francouer!

So would it be someone else’s sore-arm broken down 5th starter? And if that’s the case, you wouldn’t be bringing another pitcher up unless you’re sending one of our starters back down.

Maybe one of our bullpen arms is only part of the deal. If that were so it could be something like a mid level, mulit-player deal instead of minor trade.

Or, if candy and nuts were……

Guess we’ll find out soon enough.

By ncscoots

June 20, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Shaun, I’m always reluctant to engage you in discussion, but I think just this one time I will do so.

Baseball Prospectus is not the only source of saber-centric data. 75% is hardly a hard number, and, in any case, success percentage must be VERY high to offset potential runs lost from a caught-stealing. That’s the point; I won’t nit-pick numbers.

If runs scored have no correlation to the “value of the steal”, then why would anyone EVER attempt a steal? Stealing bases as an offensive tactic is DIRECTLY related to increasing the possibilitiy of run-scoring. At least, that’s the philosophy behind such a tactic, whether it’s actually effective or not.

Therefore, comparing the runs scored from two players playing the same number of games; hitting in the same lineup spot; on teams scoring approximately the same number of runs; and a single major variable of SB attempts, is a legit comparison.

Many folks want players attempting to steal just because the player has the speed to do so, regardless of the game situation and risk-reward. My point is that stealing bases simply because they are like Mt. Rushmore does not produce more runs in the manner of some fans’ thinking.

The last word is yours, my friend.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

TenneseePaul

That was classic. LOL.

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Of course…. there’s probably a good chance DOB already knows the deal but can’t say. He says it’s a minor deal. So minor deal it is.

By DHD

June 20, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Actually, McBride has been traded to Detroit today.

By Double Deuce

June 20, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Well, I heard they are trading Drew for Larry and Moe. We asked for Curly but they wouldn’t throw him in.

By Patrick

June 20, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

McBride to Detroit

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

Ranger: www.thebaseballcube.com
www.ESPN.com
www.Baseball-Reference.com
www.MLB.com
All of these have their strengths and weaknesses. There are other sites as well, but these pretty much cover every thing. B-R has a good database for game logs. Baseball Cube has a good system for entire history of the play, though it is a season behind. MLB.com has a good list of historical players, though the query returns time out regularly. Some like OPS+ for offensive worth.

By Todd A

June 20, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

I remember when “Grand Slam” Devine first came up to the show,barely 2 months after being drafted.Cox balked when reporters asked if Devine was being rushed to the majors to fix yet another anemic Braves bullpen.Yeah,right.Now the kid is a basket case,just like Wohlers after the Leyritz homerun.

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

I would not be surprised at all if it was Yates that we dealt.

By MGL

June 20, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I think it is Woodward and Paronto for Coco and Big Papi. That way there is no expense for new uniforms as they can both swap, and no extra airfare since they are here.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

If they were going to deal Devine, he wouldn’t be in Atlanta. They don’t have to call him up to deal him.

They could just be in a really cruel mood. “Here’s what you’ll never see again son. Say hello to the fishes.”

By Anonymous

June 20, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse…

Sunday’s game was moved to Sunday night for ESPN’s Sunday night baseball…

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

McBride? Wasn’t he our ONLY lefty in the pen?

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Mcbride to Detroit for what?

A good sports psychologist for Andruw?

By Bob

June 20, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

McBride to the Tigers? For who? They already have three lefties in their pen.

By DHD

June 20, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Taveras was with the Indians when we won the 95 Series.

Who did we get from Detroit?

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

Payne: Whooptysh!t. If you look at the actual runs, it’s 100% accurate, both when you tally them individually or take the team total.

By Baron

June 20, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

On the steal issue- I frequently wonder why the runnner at first does not attempt a steal in first and third situations. When they do run, you RARELY/never see a throw down to second. This makes sense, because a throw to second would almost certainly result in a steal of home. The possibility of the pitcher cutting off the throw to second is there, of course, but I would think that the runner at third could wait to confirm the throw to second before taking off and still make it with little sweat. I MUST be missing something- it seems so elementary.

The advantage of taking second are great- first, you take away the double play!!!!, and second, now you got two guys in scoring position. One of ya’ll sabrematicians please explain this anamoly.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks T-Paul I should have specified I’m looking for historical saber metrics type stuff.I’ve seen some of these sites,I’ll check the rest out.

By Fred Secunda

June 20, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

Chad Durbin better be involved or I’m going to be p**.

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Anybody know what is going on in the San Fran/Milwaukee game? I am “watching” it over the internet and they are stuck in the top of the 4th. Is it weather or what?

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 20, 2007 3:31 PM | Link to this

Thrillhouse,

ESPN has the Braves scheduled for 8:05 est Sunday night. The printed schedule that I have has TBS @ 1:05, but I printed it in April, so it may have been changed since then.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

ncscoots,

Of course successful steal attempts help lead to scoring. But “comparing the runs scored from two players playing the same number of games; hitting in the same lineup spot; on teams scoring approximately the same number of runs; and a single major variable of SB attempts,” doesn’t really tell us much.

Maybe one player is hitting right in front of the best hitter on the team and maybe the other team’s best hitter is farther down in the lineup. These are things that can greatly affect run scoring that have nothing to do with steals or speed. That’s all I’m saying.

Reyes’s 80 percent success rate may be doing the job but his teammates may not be doing as good a job as the Braves have driving Kelly Johnson in.

It’s kind of like if you have a player that could somehow get 100 doubles in a season but somehow only scores 20 runs, you wouldn’t say he’s risking going for doubles for not much reward. You’d take those 100 doubles and hope the team can drive him in.

This goes back to my point about runs and RBI are not a good way to judge the value of hitters. If a hitter somehow hits 50 solo homers and another player gets 50 singles and drives in 100 runs, I’d hope most of us would still take the guy who can hit 50 homeruns.

I think we agree on the major point you were trying to make, though, that success rate is more important than stolen base total.

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this

John S. traded Pete Orr to Oakland for a copy of Billy Beane’s “Moneyball.”

Going with an extra pitcher in Orr’s slot since we got Woodward and Escobar.

By Fred Secunda

June 20, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Come on DOB, give us an update brother.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Renegator,

They have finished 5 and it is 6-0 Brew Crew. If it is weather then the stadium sprung a bigger leak than the one they had the other night.

Has anyone confirmed McBride to DETROIT?

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

I hope its not Maroth. I figure Davies is just as bad.

By geauxbraves2000

June 20, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

If it indeed is McBride to Detriot, I’d think it’s one of those “change of scenery” things, and the Braves get a minor leaguer or the the famous PTBNL.

Just my opinion.

Geaux Braves!!

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

DOB….we are waiting…tiptop…tiptop…tiptop…tiptop

By ncscoots

June 20, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

I think we agree on the major point you were trying to make, though, that success rate is more important than stolen base total.

jeezgawdalmighty, that had NOTHING TO DO WITH MY POINT! Good grief. You’d think I know better…

By N8

June 20, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Renegator

“McBride? Wasn’t he our ONLY lefty in the pen?”

Yes he was the ONLY lefty in our pen. But even with him out there, we STILL had zero effective lefties, that could throw strikes and be counted on, IMO.

Bob

“McBride to the Tigers? For who? They already have three lefties in their pen.”

I’ll assume, one of those lefties, is coming our way. Add to that, maybe the Tigers are gonna send McBride to the minors, to be a starter, or “flip” him to another team.

DOB

Speaking of trades, when are we gonna find out who the “player to be named later” is, in the Langerhans deal?

By Jon

June 20, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Just in: The Braves get Mike Maroth from Detroit

By ElbravoX

June 20, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

THIS JUST IN: Hampton to retire, press conference scheduled for tomorrow.

By Tyler

June 20, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

Shanks confirms trade http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?S=248#S=248&F=2070&T=642490

By Dubbs

June 20, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Mcbride to the Yankees for Tyler Clippard

By Mitchie-san

June 20, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

maybe we got Redman back!

Just kidding…..

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

I can’t stand those PTBNL deals, especially when we really need 1 or 2 players to contribute starting yesterday!

By Tomahawkin' Again

June 20, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

McBride & Orr to the Tigers for Ordonez & Verlander (I can dream, can’t I?)

By brnt247

June 20, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

To whoever was wondering about the Brewers-Giants game. 6-4 Brewers, both teams have grand slams.

By Bob

June 20, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

Are we really going to give up our only LH Bullpen guy for a PTBNL? If so, why would we be bringing Devine up vice some lefty in the system? Have not seen anything on MLB.Com about McBride or anyone.

By Randy

June 20, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

geauxbraves2000 - I agree. I don’t know how much a team would actually give us for McBride. If it is him, I wouldn’t be surprised if a minor leaguer was sent our way. Yates is probably the only guy in out bullpen (that we are willing to trade) that would bring anything in return.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

I join in a heartfelt cheer for Larry Munson. And what-a-you got, Loren?

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

TennesseePaul,

Problem is an individual players’ runs scored totals don’t tell you how much an individual player contributes.

By doug

June 20, 2007 3:56 PM | Link to this

Reyes doesn’t score more runs than Kelley because 20 percent of the time he gets thrown out stealing second, whereas Kelly is still on base and has the opportunity to be moved over, or driven in. Pretty simple really.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

I just got here through traffic. McBride spotted leaving the clubhouse in street clothes, no official word yet, but sounds like he’s the goner

By Renegator

June 20, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

N8

Good one!

Speaking of player to be named later trades - did we ever get anyone or anything from Oakland for Langy?

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

News conference at 4:05. Gotta get downstairs for it.

It’s McBride, though. Don’t know details yet. Won’t be able to write until I get back up

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

OK I’m not finished.While walking my dogs the thing that was working poped up.I resently posted a case that Lefty Grove is the greatest starting pitcher in history.I came to this by looking at pitchers with 200 and over career wins.I then calculated the % their era was lower than the league average for the years they played.Lefty was 1st Walter Johnson was 2nd.Interestingly this corresponded almost exactly with the top winning %.I’ve thought for awhile that ops is a great measure of players in today’s game.What about Ty Cobb and Murry Wells who played when runs and power numbers were lower and stolen bases were more valuable.So if you could find career RC/27 stats and the league averages then calculate their % over that you’d have a much more accurate valuation.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

No Efrim-You moronic, sophomoric little dweeb. YOU were bringing up Chuck James-not me. He wasn’t germaine to the point I was making. Just because you can’t keep on topic is hardly my fault. But if you want to take this whole conversation to a different level, then bring it on. Your analysis on damn near every subject is so inane and emotion driven that I will put you in the ground with any argument you care to make. You are a complete and utter idiot. You sit here and tell us that you can tell where an A ball pitcher will end up in a ML rotation-something not you or anyone else, even a ML scout, can say with any accuracy. Then you say you can tell by radar gun readings, of which you never gave a single example and expect us to not bust out laughing at your presumption and pure lack of any understanding? Give me a break. You don’t have a clue and calling me any name you may have picked up while playing in your elementary school sandbox won’t ever change the fact that you don’t know your rear end from a golf course. Go back and study up before you start calling names, Little Boy.

By Shaun

June 20, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

TennPaul,

Here’s the problem: A guy with a .250/.300/.400 guy happens to hit in front of a guy like Chipper and a guy like Andruw in his prime. The .250/.300/.400 guy ends up scoring about 100 runs. The Chipper and Andruw-types score 100 runs or less. There’s no way that guy is more valuable.

To put it a different way: A guy who gets a single and scores on a homerun, shouldn’t get as much credit as the guy who hit the homerun, though they each scored one run. But if you just look at runs, you are giving the guy who hit the single just as much credit.

By N8

June 20, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Todd A.

“Yeah,right.Now the kid is a basket case,just like Wohlers after the Leyritz homerun.”

I realize that it’s AA ball, but I would hardly call the following stats, the stats of a “basket case”.

16 Saves, 2.01 ERA, with 12 BB’s, and 47 K’s in 31.1 IP.

Seems like he’s doing just fine to me.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 20, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

If it indeed is McBride to Detriot, I’d think it’s one of those “change of scenery” things, and the Braves get a minor leaguer or the the famous PTBNL.

Yeah, I agree. Considering we called up Devine from the minors to fill the roster spot, it only makes sense that we’d get a minor leaguer in return.

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Well maybe it is a starter. Detroit is gonna have 7 now that Rogers and Nate Robertson are coming off the DL. Probably won’t be Andrew Miller. Probably not Chad Durbin. Mike Maroth is the logical choice. He’s not exactly instilling a warm fuzzy feeling of help on the way in me.

But I guess you get what you pay for.

By Jersey Gil

June 20, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

It this is true that JoJo Reyes was promoted to AAA Richmond?

By 22oz

June 20, 2007 4:09 PM | Link to this

So i guess McBride can just take today and tomorrow off and do whatever until his new team comes to town? That should be nice, no lonely plane ride.

By brnt247

June 20, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Runs and RBI are arbitrary stats to be honest. OBP, SLG, OPS, avg with RISP are the stats to really look at. Runs can happen a lot just based on the guys behind you being great hitters, and RBIs can happen by the guys in front of you always getting on base.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

Payne: Actually, an individuals runs scored tells you exactly how many runs he scored. 100% correct every single time you look at it.

By RAY

June 20, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Now that Leo’s buddy Perlozzo is out in Baltimore, maybe we could make a pitching coach change Mcdowell for Mazzone. John S., Bobby C. make it happen

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

I’d take Zach Miner back, Yorman Bazardo, or Ryan Rayburn and if we’re going any lower it’d be Eulogio de la Cruz or Danny Zell from AA, but other than that, I really don’t see much talent…Hopefully this isn’t a needs a change of scenery for needs a change of scenery trade

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

Lew

You need help. You still haven’t answered a simple question regarding Baseball America. Why have that publication if no one can predict whether a Single A pitcher can do anything in the bigs? Answer that. Reyes and Harrison being a #3 starter at best is straight from them. By looking at their stats and other scouts analysis, it seems to me that their celing is a #3 starter.

By Chop Chop

June 20, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Macay McBride to the Tigers for Jon Shmoltz.

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Efrim Stand at attention and say, “SIR, YES SIR!” before Lew removes your head and takes a dump in it.

By SaltyWoody

June 20, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

McBride to Detroit for free, as compensation for them having to watch Smoltz on the Braves all these years

By Thrillhouse44

June 20, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Arkansas Hillbilly,

Thanks for the head’s up. I was reading an April schedule also. I’m glad you clued me in though.

By Chris_In_PA

June 20, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

I hope that it is Maroth for McBride…I think that would be a wonderful trade.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

Lew

It took you so long to write that well thought out post. So many insults. You need serious help. You get too worked up over a simple comment. Maybe your significant other isn’t helping you out with the anger management that you so desparately need.

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

I’d love to have Robertson…I’d think he may be able to dominate in the NL and he’d stick well as a #3 for us…hopefully leaving Kyle the odd man out…but I guess I’m kinda dreaming they’ll give us that much for McPuffy

By NCBravesFan

June 20, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

RAY Shoot man, forget Leo as pitching coach! I was thinking we should stick him into the rotation!

By Ron

June 20, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Gotta be Maroth, yippeeeee!!!! LOL!!! DeadFans, you right dude, you get what you pay for!!! Maroth would be better than a minor leaguer!!!

By Glass Half Full (GHF)

June 20, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

Devine was probably promoted to take McBride’s spot until the Detroit player (Maroth?) arrives. Without Devine the Braves would be short an arm. Does that mean he’s going back down on Friday? Talk about cruel. Maybe Davies is going down to AAA.

By BamaBrave

June 20, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Is Murry Wells related to Maury Wills, A-Ville? Sorry, couldn’t resist…

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

Payne: Here’s the thing, and it’s a pretty key point in this whole thing you’re doing. I never said Runs Scored determines the value of a player. But you’re having a good time with it so knock yourself out.

By Todd A

June 20, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

N8you’re right.AA ain’t the majors.

By Mets Stink

June 20, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

Great Plug-in CL, thanks!

By Tyler

June 20, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Who said it was only McBride that was traded? The deal could include another player who is not with the big club right now…

By RAY

June 20, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

NC, I don’t care what he does. I just want him rockin’ back on OUR bench.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Paladin

If you knew what we were arguing about you would know I’m right. This punk is trying to tell me that you can’t predict whether or not Single A or Double A pitchers will be successful in the majors. COMPLETE F*ING JOKE!!!

By doug

June 20, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

McBride only gave up one run in his last nine appearances, and that was on the wild pitch two nights ago. Not doing too bad. Number one draft choice and from Atlanta. He has gotta be bummed.

By Fred Secunda

June 20, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

mcBride for Maroth straight up is a fair deal, but if you expect Atlanta to have gotten one of their better starters like Robertson or Durbin, the Braves would have to throw in Escobar as well.

By Chris

June 20, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

How about Roger McDowell and a PTBNL to the Orioles for Mazzone?

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

It’s 4:30 and still no word. Must be a real stinker if they have to spin it for half hour after the announcement LOL

By Kentavo

June 20, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Don’t get your hopes up - what could they possibly get for McBride?

By ElbravoX

June 20, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Smoltz on Jim Rome now!

By MBATL

June 20, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

If it’s indeed the Tigers, I’m hoping it involves Robertson.

I THINK Robertson is on the DL… and I don’t THINK you can trade a player while he’s on the DL without the Commissioner’s Approval.

If that’s true, then it probably will take a day or 2 to get approval from the commissioner’s office; then, we might send Davies down and replace him with Robertson, which is fine with me. But that would explain calling up Devine.

I also think that a player on the DL can be designated as a “Player to be named later.” So, if we get a PTBNL, it might be Robertson.

I just can’t see us trading our only BP lefty for a minor leaguer at this point in the season.

Just hoping and guessing … we’ll know soon enough.

By Salty

June 20, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Tomahawkin’ Again McBride & Orr to the Tigers for Ordonez & Verlander (I can dream, can’t I?) That would be drugs, not a dream!!! ;-)

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

LEW’S BACK IN BLACK! OH YEAH!

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

You are right, I don’t know what you are arguing about. Just as long as you do. Good luck!

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

Rob S- I don’t think Durbin is that good.

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

What are you smokin Fred? Escobar and McBride for Robertson…no way is that a good deal for Atlanta…If we go there we better be getting Granderson and Robertson…otherwise thats just ridiculous…I mean we got Edgar Renteria for Andy Marte, and he hadn’t proven that he could hit in the bigs, which Escobar has already done time and again these last few weeks

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Buck and Kincaide reported McBride being dealt to Detroit half an hour ago though they didn’t know who for; Buck suggested Maroth and Kincaide laughed.

Munson likey isn’t going to do this season though he says he may come back for ‘08 if he heals well. Since the Dawgs are an integral part of life, life will be signifigantly altered for the worse without Munson. There will be little woofing, and that subdued.

By SaltyWoody

June 20, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Are you guys serious with this stuff? McBride for Robertson? Lay off the peace pipe, amigos.

More like McBride and a pack of butts for Leyland to Detroit for a piece of mind for Bobby and Roger that they won’t have to watch McBride self-destruct again.

By Bigboi

June 20, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Just in Mcbride, Escobar, and Willie Harris for Durbin and Sheffield. I think we got the best of this deal.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

McBride for a PTBNL. Really looking forward to later when all the names start spilling out.

By HP

June 20, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

News Conference at 4:05. The time is 4:50 now. This is gotta be one of the longest news conference braves had.

By Fred Secunda

June 20, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

P-Town Brave…if Atlanta could get Nate Robertson for McBride and Escobar they would jump on that so fast it would make your head spin.

Sure, Escobar’s been good, but Robertson is 7-0 with an ERA under 4.00, young and left handed. Escobar to me projects as an Edgar Renteria type player with not as much power. And Andy Marte, and at the time, was one of the two or three best prospects in baseball. You need to wake up if you think Atlanta wouldn’t make that deal.

By Noahway

June 20, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

It’s Ledezma. Ho Hum.

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

As I said before, if it’s Maroth, I’m not jumpin’ up and down.

He’s 5-2 with an era over 5. Bring him to the NL and the era drops to 4 which isn’t exactly bail us out kinda numbers.

He has given up 97 hits in 78 innings. I don’t like that last stat. Struck out something like 28.

By Michael

June 20, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

It’s Wilfredo Ledezma from Detroit for McBride. Source Yahoo Sports.

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

mbatl

Hey, just figured I’d get ya the info…Robertson will start for Double-A Erie on Thursday as the Seawolves host the Altoona Curve. He actually has already reached the 15 days of his DL stay BUT I guess they wanted to give him a tune-up game at AA, but he is scheduled to join the Tigers on Friday in Atlanta…maybe we’ll get lucky and he’ll be doing so from the Home dugout..

As for the whole can’t trade for a DL’ed player…not sure what rules imply, but I do know that the Yanks are currently in negotiation to send Phil Hughes who is on the DL to the Rangers for Teixiera…all I remember is that its approval is contingent on the team receiving the player DL’ed in agreement that they know of the injury and they get an OK from their team physician citing the injury not worse than was previously stated

By Samantha

June 20, 2007 4:54 PM | Link to this

Some of the above posts mentioned that most of the Red Sox fans were transplants. I think some are but most may come from the out-of-state college students in New England. Recently I read that there were 47 colleges and universities in the Boston area. Every fall between 250,000 and 300,000 out-of-state students live the the Boston area. A lot of them are from states with no home team - they get caught up in the excitement and become fans. They go home and root from their hometown. Through the years there probably have been millions of students who have caught the bug. Then their families become Sox fans, etc. Also, the Sox have been in Boston since the late 1800s. Thats a long time. When the Sox play in a nearby city they attend the games. My roommate in college is from South Carolina and I know that she and her family are in Atlanta this week.

Also, the Sox have a program called Red Sox Destinations - they arrange a flight, hotel tickets, a meet and greet, etc. I’m sure that Atlanta is one of the cities every year.

The other thing is that Sox fans travel. Its tough to get tickets to Fenway - they’ve sold out for 341 or 342 consecutive games so people plan their vacations around the away schedule. My husband and I usually go to Baltimore and Toronto every year. Last year we visited Atlanta when the Sox were there.

Basically what I’m saying is that there are many reasons why there are so many members of Sox nation at road games-they’re not all transplants.

By the way we loved Atlanta, the accomodations and the people. We had a agreat time and plan to visit again.

Good luck to the Braves - with any luck (for both teams) mabey we’ll see you in October.

Samantha Newport, RI

By TJ

June 20, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Mike Maroth is going to be 30 in August. The lefty has compiled a 50-62 record in 147 games over 6 years, mostly as a starter. His career ERA is 4.81 and he has 245 BB and 420 K in 880 career innings.

Macay McBride is a 24 year old lefty with a career 6-1 record with ERA of 3.99 and 54 BB and 85 K in 85.2 career innings.

Is this a fair trade? Macay strikes out twice as many hitters per inning pitched, although he walks over twice as many per IP. I understand we need another starter, but giving up a promising young lefty reliever (the only one in the pen) for Maroth?

Maroth’s career stats share a striking resemblance to Mark Redman (career ERA of 4.78).

By ElbravoX

June 20, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

DOB,stop the insanity.

By Arkansas Hillbilly

June 20, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=txtigersbravestrade&prov=st&type=lgns

Looks like it’ll be Ledezma. Bloggers can carry on to your regular duties, now. Nothing to see here, folks.

By Chop Chop

June 20, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind Scott Howard on basketball, but I’d rather UGA look around to find a different guy to handle the football chores when Larry rides off into the sunset. No one can replace Munson, of course. I hope he can stick around for another year.

I happened to talk to my dad today about the possibility of Munson hanging ‘em up. Dad’s a lifelong Tech fan and he sarcastically suggested Loran Smith for play-by-play. I hate to say it, but I had to break my dad’s nose with a hobnail boot. Father’s Day is over.

By Efrim

June 20, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

.362 / .955

Batting Average Against and OPS Against versus Lefties for Ledezma……

Can we convert this guy to starter????

By Bob

June 20, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Ledezma almost blew the game for the Tigers the other night. He has 26 walks and 24 strike outs. Doesn’t seem like much of a trade to me.

By Coach (NOT DRINKING THE KOOL AID)

June 20, 2007 5:02 PM | Link to this

Lefty for lefty , Ledezma does have 33 starts from 03 to 06 , whatever that’s worth. I can’t say this trade has me jumping up and down , more like , that’s it ?

By ernesto

June 20, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

Blue Jays release John Thomson. Please tell me we don’t get desperate enough for a Big Red redux.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 5:06 PM | Link to this

Ledezma is the man. What a non-trade. If anything, maybe this guy can give us some pointers on how to attack the Tigers. Otherwise, ho-hum.

By Lew

June 20, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

No Efrim-I don’t need to answer anything. You still haven’t told me how you can tell where they will end up. Baseball America? They don’t know any better than you do. I pointed out to you several examples of quite successful pitchers that had horrendous to barely average starts to their major league careers and you still insist you can tell in high A ball where they will end up in a ML rotation. How do you know this? From reading a publication that probably misses twice as many as they predict accurately? If they get that many right? Get real. That is hardly an authoritative source, any more than your prognostications. I don’t claim to know where things will shake out for either Harrison or Reyes. It’s way too soon to tell. Same with Chuckie and Davies. IF they keep going the way they are now ( James and Davies, that is), No they won’t be aces. My point all along has been that you don’t know either. You respond by calling me names and asking me to answer a pointless question that lays miles away from the subject at hand. But that’s OK. I realize you’re intellectually challenged. You want some more examples of cluelessness from experts? Do the names David Clyde, Mark Fydrich and Todd Van Poppel mean anything to you? They were all widely considered to be aces. How did they shake out? How about Rick Ankiel? How about Mark Prior and Kerry Wood? Superstars all-or at least were thought to be. I guess someone’s crystal ball was in the shop when they were predicted to become #1 starters. The point is, for once and for all-You can’t tell where a A or AA player will end up, or what their development may or may not be. No one can-not ecven well informed ML personnel can tell for sure, much less you. However, in the halls of rationality and debate, you will certainly never be an ace. I don’t even need my crystal ball to know that.

By Ron Roberts

June 20, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

Yahoo! needs to get their info right, though. They list McBride as a RHP. He’s a lefty, as is Ledezma.

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the info and the props, Samantha; decent human beings from another fan base are rare sightings on this blog. Good luck (after tonight).

By Bob

June 20, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop,

Good one. I am still laughing. I like Scott Howard, but I would veto either Loran or worse yet, Hondo.

Not sure how much this trade does. Looks like only a change of scenery for both guys. Do not like Ledezma’s walk/so ratios though.

By N8

June 20, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this

Todd A.

I’ll tell you what. I feel a HELLUVA lot more confindent in Devine coming up and doing a good job out of the pen based on his “AA stats”, than I do in Andruw.

Take that for what it’s worth.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

The Yanks would never trade Phil Hughes, not even for Tex.

As for the trade, BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

By Dead Fans

June 20, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

What was that all about? I would have pulled that trade at about 2 am so I wouldn’t bother anyone with the details. Guess that was just washing their hands of Mcbride cause this guy we got may just be a small bit better than a case of beer in return!

By HP

June 20, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

How is this trade supposed to help us? It seems like the Tigers got a better out of this deal. Maybe the braves made this trade so they can make Wilfredo Ledezma as a starting pitcher. Why in the world tigers need 7 starters on their team. They suck. They should have traded for Maroth.

By TJ

June 20, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

I am not too thrilled with the McBride for Ledezma trade. Ledezma, like McBride, has control issues, evidenced by his 26 BB in 35.2 IP this year. Ledezma is older than McBride and is not effective against LH hitters with a .340 BA against this year. LH hitters are hitting .160 against McBride.

What was the point of trading a local GA product in McBride?

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Fred

You’re an idiot! You might want to read a stat page before you try to tell me you know more than I do…Robertson is 4-6 w/ an ERA above 5…

You’re thinking about Bonderman smart guy…so maybe you might want to get your players straight before you talk about them! Who knows w/ that remark of mistaking a righty w/ a lefty that maybe you’re confusing Escobar w/ Chris Woodward…just a thought..

BTW…it is Ledezma and the reason is that he can start or work in long relief..

Here’s your scouting report

Not great numbers this yr w/ an ERA over 4 1/2 and 26 walks in 35 IP, but he did have a good year last year…kinda scary this yr though that he has 3 more walks allowed w/ about 25 less IP already He’s a bigger lefty who at age 26 actually faces righties much tougher than lefties…about a 100 pt avg difference He has also given up runs in 10 of his 23 appearances including poor May and June in which he has given up 15 runs in 20 IP…

This pretty much seals that it was 2 players who need a change of scenery being swapped for each other

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

I don’t know about this deal. McBride must have really ticked someone off the other night. I could see Bobby rolling his eyes and throwing up his hands when McBride started aiming for the press box…

By The Grinch

June 20, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Ledzema, isn’t that a skin disorder?

By ernesto

June 20, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Ledezma 35 innings pitched, 38 hits, 21 runs, 4 dingers, 26 BB (yikes!), 24 Strike Outs, 4.79 ERA

Macay 15 innings pitched, 14 hits, 9 runs, 1 hr, 15 walks, 7 strike outs, 3.60 ERA

Is there something I’m missing here, why is this guy better than McBride?

By N8

June 20, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

The SAD part is, is that the Yahoo link above, states that the Tigers “bolstered their bullpen, with the addition of McBride.

Now I know what McBride has done this year, and if somebody adding him to their bullpen, can be considered “bolstering” it…

(sigh)

By Chris_In_PA

June 20, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand this trade at all!!! McBride for Ledezma? I don’t understand!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By JasonInMaine

June 20, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Would they call a news conference to announce that they traded McBride for some other no name lefty?

By HP

June 20, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

The Grinch, Eczema is a skin disorder manifested by itch rashes and inflammation of the affected area of the skin.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2007 5:25 PM | Link to this

This guy has started a few times.
8-13 5.56 ERA in 33 Starts.
7-5 4.61 ERA in 73 relief appearances
Perhaps the Braves see him as a better starter than reliever. Last season in the minors he started 12 games and was 4-3 with a 2.52 ERA at AAA Toledo. And he was a Rule 5 draft pick, so maybe he hadn’t fully developed yet.

I don’t know. It’s going to be hard to cheer: “Let’s go Wilfredo Ledezma!”

By Berigan

June 20, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Love the info from the link….

*Tigers acquire RHP McBride from Braves for LHP Ledezma June 20, 2007 WASHINGTON (TICKER) — The Detroit Tigers made a deal to bolster their injury-riddled bullpen Wednesday, acquiring righthanded reliever Macay McBride from the Atlanta Braves for lefthander Wilfredo Ledezma. *

Is McBride going to pitch right handed in the AL????????

Ledezma started some last year for the Tigers, and had a 3.59 ERA, last year as well…..they have something like 7 starters when they are all healthy, does anyone think Ledezma goes to the minors to start for a bit, or just our lefty reliever now????

By Lew

June 20, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this

Grinch-I wouldn’t worry too much. Liberty Media can always work out a deal with Tinactin or something. They could even get John Madden as spokesperson. You have to see the whole plan. They couldn’t pull this deal off until they had their sponsors lined up.

By TJ

June 20, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t look like a great trade. I am not sure what McBride did to tick everyone off so much, but I have to think it is more than his control issues. It seems odd to give up on your number 1 draft pick from 2001.

Ledezma is a lefty, but he can’t get them out. So we now have a bullpen full of righties and a lefty who pitches like one. When Carlos Delgado, Ryan Howard, or Chase Utley come to bat in a late-inning situation with the game on the line, what will we do then?

By Chop Chop

June 20, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Why do I foresee Ledezma being referred to as “Eczema” on this blog very soon? I guess he’ll replace “Reeksma”, you know, because we needed a replacement for him, didn’t we? The only way this trade makes sense is as a “change of scenery” thing. I just hope the new scenes seen by these guys help both teams out.

By SaltyWoody

June 20, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Wow. Ledezma, huh? The guy’s WHIP is almost as high as AJ’s batting average.

By Taylor

June 20, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

Hey Dave,

What’s the deal with Tanyon Sturtze, what’s the timetable for his return?

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG IS UP, it’s short and done quickly, but wanted to get some info up before I run back downstairs to clubhouse

By Lew

June 20, 2007 5:31 PM | Link to this

Now y’all-You fail to see the implications of this deal, that’s all. Think how much fun it will be listening to Skip Caray trying to pronounce Wilfredo Ledezma. Jon Miller, too, for that matter.

By P-Town Brave

June 20, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

So I have it figured out…Ledezma has a really great curve so the Braves will now have him throw BP to Andruw mainly and others so they actually learn how to hit a curve bc obviously they need help in that area

By BamaBrave

June 20, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

The Grinch was kidding, HP…

By Paladin

June 20, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this

The Grinch In response to your clever little play-on-words someone wrote Eczema is a skin disorder manifested by itch rashes and inflammation of the affected area of the skin. I had a writing instructor who told me to never use sarcasm unless I was sure about my reading audience because “some” will not get it. If it is any consolation, the rest of us found it clever and witty. ‘Night all.

By Todd A

June 20, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

Trading one problem for another one.John Schuerholz,the king of the reclamation projects.

By Todd A

June 20, 2007 6:45 PM | Link to this

N8 Maybe Devine will be all world this time through.I’m just saying he’s been promoted to ATL a couple times before,and he crashed and burned on the grand stage.Big time.We’ll know soon enough if he’s put his past behind him.I hope he’s successful.

By Logywonzy

June 20, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

WHY are we doomsayers? Because our top TWO starters just got SHELLED by the Red Sox and with the exception of the Indian series we haven’t won hardly ANY series in WELL over a month. Add to that that Andruw is in possibly the WORST slump of his career and our bullpen is shaky at best. There is NO WAY we will win this division. The Mets are getting back Pedro and they WILL get hot and run away with the division. They are the BEST team in the National league and there is precious little we can do about it.

Oh well, at least we’re better than last year :(

By Bob, Journalist

June 20, 2007 8:58 PM | Link to this

Would Bobby please put Andruw in the game? What’s he thinking about?!

Robert, don’t spoil things … develop an normaalization algorithm instead … well written, mon ami.

When folks ask you about Robert Cox, you can always reply “No, we’re not related … who’s he?” and let it go at that. Don’t you get tired of all this talk about Bobby? You’d think that people could think of something else to talk about.

No response required … please!

By cashmere

June 21, 2007 7:31 AM | Link to this

its time to lean torwards torii in center or willie in c either way we need to KEEP our call-ups they can play and are better than pete orr,and cheaper.

and they give us options with the money the save us,

its gonna hurt to see renteria leave but escobar is betterand that 9mil right there thats d-train money